Original subtitles

The following program is rated PG and may contain mature subject matter viewer

discretion is advised.

I'm just in the limo on the way to the airport.

Don't you think this is a little much, Ethan?

Oh, come on. You're worth it.

I showed the partners your proposal, and they love your design. They want you

back permanently.

Are you serious?

They want you back at the Manhattan office right after the new year.

Wow, that's so soon.

Well, they're eager for you to get started.

So why don't you take a couple of days and then you can figure out what you

to do to get back here a bit quicker.

Then we can make some plans. Sound good?

That's great. That's totally great.

I knew you'd be excited.

This is such an excellent opportunity for us.

I am so proud of you, sweetheart.

Thank you.

And with the pay raise, we can afford that place on the Upper West Side that

you've been loving so much.

Honey.

But if this isn't the universe telling us we're on the right track, I don't

what is.

Uh, Ethan, I'm just, I'm not sure that I could... Okay, I gotta run.

You have a safe flight. I'll talk to you soon.

Okay.

Cassie, you look great, sweetheart.

Oh, it's so good to see you.

I missed you, kiddo. I missed you, too.

It's the last few weeks that all I can think about is coming home.

Well, has work been that hard?

No. No, it's a great job.

Say,

you remember that old Abernathy place? It's for sale now.

You know, that one that you had your eyes on all the time?

Now that you're back, it's...

It's perfect timing.

Speaking of perfect timing, how are the plans for the winter festival coming?

Cassie, we're not doing the winter festival.

Dad. I'm sorry. I just didn't have the heart to call you.

But it's tradition.

Your Highness.

Yes.

Richard, is that you making all that racket?

Yes, I... At this hour?

Really, Arthur, it's highly unorthodox.

This is a place for decorum, not disruption.

Yes, you don't understand. The prince... He's probably sleeping. He does not

appreciate you gadding about, shouting all through the halls.

That may be correct, if you're here.

Pardon? That's what I've been trying to tell you.

The prince is missing.

Missing? You can't be missing. What about the coronation? The coronation is

our only problem.

What do you mean?

Someone's going to have to tell her.

Yeah, why don't you put the taller one in the back? Yeah. There you go.

Perfect. And then put the smaller one up here.

Nice. And then this one, you could put it on the other side behind the glass

wall. I think that would really balance it out nice.

Perfect. Yeah? Mm -hmm. That's great.

So good to have you home.

Thank you. It's good to be home.

It does look pretty nice.

Yeah. I only wish your mom could see it.

Me too.

Your displays always draw the biggest crowd.

And it's not bad for business either.

She's right, Jill.

Hey. How are you, Madison, David?

Good to see you. Thank you.

Is this? Oh, my goodness. Look at you. I cannot believe how big she is. I know.

I can't believe where the time's gone.

Do you remember me?

How could she forget her favorite ad from New York?

Yes, that is your mama. You are correct.

Unfortunately, we can't stay. We've got to go.

But you've got to come over real soon. Yeah. Tell us all about New York. That

would be great.

Bye, Ladybug. Bye. Good to see you.

Bye. Bye.

Oh, my gosh.

I know.

Adorable. Now, you help yourself to anything you want on the house.

So, Dad, what'll it be?

You're going to have to explain the holiday drinks again.

Definitely. No.

The holiday latte comes in a medium and a small, and then there's a Christmas

latte, which only comes in a large. What is the difference?

Um, nutmeg, maybe? Yeah. You know what? I'm just going to let you decide.

Who's Ethan?

On your phone just now. A gentleman caller, maybe?

Dad, please. No, someone from work.

Oh, well, I thought you were done with New York.

You know what? Enough about me.

What are these errands you're supposed to be doing?

I'm getting my morning mocha, which is the most important meal of the day. Oh,

boy. And then I'm going to go and meet Melinda at the library.

You're volunteering again?

I do it for the free books.

You do know that they're all free, right? It's a library.

That's how this works. This is your most important meal of the day. That looks

good. Thank you very much. Of course.

Thank you.

Dad, I want to talk to you about the Winter Festival.

Oh, Cassie. No, no, I know, but it's almost Christmas, and it just doesn't

right without it.

I know, honey, but it was a lot of work even before your mother passed.

Times have changed. Things are different. Sometimes it's best to move

know, but it wasn't just a festival. It was Christmas.

I mean, seeing the whole town get together, knowing that Mom was a huge

it, just, those are some of my best memories.

Well, mine too, honey. But it just got harder and harder to pull together.

It took everything your mom had just to give us that one last Christmas.

And without her on the festival committee, I really don't understand.

no, but Dad, we can do it. We need to do it, because if we don't do it, this

will be the first year that it hasn't happened.

How does that feel?

Well... Things don't always work out, kids. You know, life's not a fairy tale.

But what if it was?

What if it was?

how it has always been and how it will always be.

I just thought, Your Highness, that if you could postpone the royal Christmas

ball until after the prince returned to the castle... We can't postpone the

royal Christmas ball, Reginald. It must be on Christmas Day. It's tradition.

The Varovian royal family has observed this practice for centuries, and what's

more, it is Nicholas's 35th year, and you know the significance that has on

proceedings. Yes, ma 'am, of course.

And you!

I don't understand. How could he just go missing?

You're his attendant. How can you attend him when you don't even know where he

is? We've been trying, Your Highness. It appears this telephone has been

switched off and a search of his quarters gives no indication exactly of

he may be.

Try harder.

Yes. It is absolutely crucial to crowning country that Nicholas is here

coronation on Christmas Day.

Yes, ma 'am.

Don't disappoint me.

I must be so glad to have her back home. Oh, you bet. It's very nice.

You know, you can do that with computers these days, Melinda.

Dad, I prefer to do it the old -fashioned way.

Oh, well, look at that going around today.

Never mind. I ran into the mailman on the way in. Here you go.

Oh, it's here?

Yeah.

Can I talk to you for a minute?

You bet.

Cassie, do you mind if Melinda and I have just a minute?

Uh, sure. Yeah.

Is there anything I could maybe help you with in the meantime?

Actually, do you mind?

Nope.

Perfect. I got it.

Okay.

Encyclopedia of Aquatic Animals. Is that reference or is that wild?

Oh, my gosh.

My book.

Your book.

I think you should be apologizing. Like, hey, I'm sorry. You're not hurt, are

you? You're clearly not hurt.

Well, you don't know that.

You're complaining about formalities rather than pain. You're not hurt. Okay,

excuse me, but at least you could apologize for all of this.

You should have watched where you were going.

You bumped into me.

Certainly not. It's you who bumped into me. No, you couldn't even see.

that I had a stack of books because you were reading and not paying attention.

And? Well... Don't you work here? It's your job to pay attention. I'm the

patron, and the patron's always right.

Okay, I'm sorry. First of all, who said... Got it. Thank you. What? You

what? Let this be a lesson in committing to a task and the importance of taking

responsibility for one's work. Good day and good luck.

Good

luck.

I've tried everything.

Calling, emailing, texting.

Make no mistake.

The prince's absence also reflects poorly on you.

Even if the prince returns in time, the job that may still be in jeopardy is

yours.

But wait, wait, wait.

My family has served the heir apparent for generations.

It's my duty to one day be the right hand of the king. Correction. The right

hand of the would -be king, who's currently missing.

Missing on your watch is not negotiable.

Both your future and the Crown's depend on it.

Merry Christmas.

Thank you.

Oh, trouble reshelfing? No.

Um, who was that guy that you were just helping?

I don't know, a tourist?

A tourist in Winterfell?

For what?

Why are you interested?

Hardly. Why is everybody so interested in my love life? It is honestly the last

thing on my mind. I just wanted to know if you knew what he wanted.

Well, he took out a book on town history, didn't have the proper ID, so I

write down his room and phone number at the B &B so he could bring the book

back. Not that it matters.

Sure, you're not interested. Yeah, I'm positive. We just had a run in the

stacks. It was less than pleasant.

I was curious if maybe you knew what he wanted.

Wait, what do you mean, not that it matters?

I think we should tell her, Melinda.

Tell me what?

The letter we received earlier.

The allotment of funding for the library has been cut in half.

What does that mean?

Well, it means that if the library doesn't find an alternate form of

They're going to have to close.

What are you going to do?

There's nothing we can do.

The town's resources are pushed to the limit, and any grants we could apply for

wouldn't arrive until well after we need them.

Kate, we can't just close the library.

We don't have a choice.

Unless you're in the business of miracles.

This Christmas is probably going to be our last one.

Hello.

You answered.

Of course I answered. Why wouldn't I?

Where are you?

Everyone in the palace is worried, and your mother is insisting to return at

once. Where I am is of no concern. I'm an adult. I'm allowed to go out on my

own. And you're also a prince, which comes with certain expectation and

protocol. You could at least tell someone where you're going.

Now, you must return to the palace at once. The royal Christmas ball is just

another ceremony in a long line of many. There will be more occasions to show

off the palace.

But, sir... I have... to do this.

For me.

As a reminder of what Christmas is actually about.

Prince Nicholas.

The ball can wait.

Goodbye, Arthur.

Well?

I'm not saying we should panic, but we should panic.

Hi, Sarah.

The usual?

No, just warning you about some news. The library's in danger of closing, and

they're trying to call a timing. They're trying to save it.

Closing? They're close to Christmas. I know, right? That's terrible. If they

need anything, just let me know.

Try to come as you can.

We'll probably need some coffee.

Take your seats, please.

Thank you so much for coming and supporting the library.

Hi, folks. I just really don't know what we're going to do.

The town's resources are finite.

Maybe an outside benefactor?

This close to Christmas? I think even the most charitable folks are pretty

tapped out by now.

Well, maybe we can make an appeal to the government.

Well, I think, like, the first option, the holidays, are going to complicate

that, as everyone is probably already on break.

What if the holidays are the answer?

What do you mean, dear?

Well, you said earlier today that you needed a Christmas miracle, and the

holidays keep coming up, so what if the miracle is actually Christmas itself?

I'm not following.

This could be a great time to bring back the Winter Festival.

Kathy. No, no, hear me out, Dad. I mean...

Everybody, hear me out. Cassie, by the way.

The Winter Festival always brought the entire community together.

Games, wares, treats.

Everybody put forth their best to make it more loving, more fun. And the

definitely did not suffer.

I mean, the idea of togetherness, it really reminded us of what the holidays

all about.

Oh, yes.

Lovely times.

What does that have to do with the library?

Well... Think of this.

What if the Winter Festival became the winter fundraiser?

Go on.

Okay, great.

We could take the money from the different activities and put it right

the library. And when you think about it, it makes sense because we're using

own traditions to preserve our town's history.

That's not a bad idea.

But it took your mom months of planning.

I mean, we're a week and some change out from Christmas. It's going to be an

uphill battle, Cassie. Dad, I know, I know, I know. Time is not on our side.

I mean, come on, Dad. It's Christmas.

It's Christmas.

That's what this entire holiday is about.

It's taking what's impossible and making it possible.

This is exactly the right answer. I can feel it.

I hate to say it, but this close to the holidays, I can't take time away from my

store. Of course.

I've spread the word all over town.

Thank you.

I can contribute a little. It's just the timeline.

I could set up a donation box, but I can't take on a project of this size.

Your mom worked months to pull this off.

We're leaving in the morning.

We'll do what we can when we get back, but... Anyone?

Come on. It's got to be someone.

It was a lovely idea, Cassie. I'll do it.

Excuse me?

I volunteer for the winter festival.

Who are you?

I'm Nicholas.

I'm visiting.

Oh, hey.

No, no, this is a meeting for residents of the town only.

I'd love to get involved.

What does that even mean?

You can't do this yourself.

And, you know, based on the organizational skills I saw earlier

going to need all the help you can get, right?

Are you being serious right now? More than you'll ever know. Okay, my mother

built this from the ground up.

This festival is about kindness and community, and I would rather do it on

own than work with you.

You don't even know me.

I'm pretty sure you've made yourself known.

I don't need your help.

Okay.

Suit yourself.

Straight.

Cassie, what was that about?

Well, it's nothing. It's a long story.

Well, so much for that idea. What are we going to do?

Melinda.

I am going to make this happen.

I'm going to make it for you, for the library, and for my mom.

You want a Christmas miracle?

I will figure this out.

Well, I think this is the last of them.

Good. I do not think my back could handle another trip to that attic.

Your back?

Mm -hmm.

Well, she sure kept meticulous records.

Mm -hmm.

You know, the Winterfest, that was her baby.

The present company excluded, of course, but this was something she just loved

to do.

Well, the Winterfest was special to you, too. I mean, you could have kept it

going.

I would have just missed her too much.

Why didn't you say that before?

I don't know.

I guess because parents don't always have it all figured out despite what

kids might think.

Okay.

I actually figured that out the first time that you made a gingerbread house

with me and you couldn't get the smoke alarm to go off for the first hour.

I still maintain that that was because of a faulty battery.

I'm sorry.

I resisted you on this.

I avoided the winter festival because I missed your mom, but I know that that's

why you were drawn to it, for the same reason.

I miss her, too.

I mean, she always had a plan, and right now I don't have anything figured out.

Well, your mom didn't always have a plan, but she could make things work.

She did a lot of traveling as a student.

Actually... It was when she was abroad, that's where she first came up with the

winter festival idea.

Really? Oh, yeah.

She used to see all these different people that would adhere to these

traditions, but they somehow just didn't seem to have the enthusiasm about it

that she thought they should. And so she wanted to create something that people

would just want to do and get involved with year after year.

I know, I did.

Me too.

Your mom would be honored to know that you're... doing this.

Thank you.

But hold that fanfare, because I don't even know if I could pull this off.

We'll figure it out together.

Here.

The prince has been contacted, my lady.

But he won't be returning immediately.

You talked to him?

Yes. But he's not coming home?

Yes.

Well, did you tell him that I want him home?

That was communicated to the prince, my lady.

I see.

Does he remember that I am the queen?

I'm certain he's aware.

But with due respect, my lady, he is also a prince, and it is the tendency of

the crown to do as it pleases.

True, true.

Perhaps I've raised him just a little bit too well.

Be that as it may...

You've talked to him, which means you can find him and you can bring him home.

Might you have any specific suggestions on how we do that?

Yes, you do it quickly.

Thank you.

You know what you have to do.

Must I?

Hey,

yeah, I need...

Hi,

yeah, I was wondering how much fruitcake exactly is in a fruitcake unit?

Oh, wow.

That's a lot of fruitcake. People actually buy that?

No, the mistletoe is not for eating.

Hello?

Hey, I'm so sorry. I think we got cut off. But, yeah, Bows of Holly will be no

problem whatsoever if you don't have mistletoe on a pitch.

What are you talking about?

Ethan? What's with all the Christmas talk?

Bows of Holly?

Are you serious?

Oh, I, yeah, I'm just getting in the Christmas spirit.

Why? We don't even like Christmas.

You don't like Christmas. I love everything about it.

Oh, my God, you are so cute.

Hey, listen, they want to move the presentation up to the 24th.

But that's, um, that's Christmas Eve.

I know.

But we are one step closer to that big promotion.

And even better, we get to spend New Year's together.

Yeah, you know what? Yes, um, I gotta get going, though. I just got a lot to

Yeah, right.

Okay, I'll call you later.

Okay, great.

I was just wondering how much for 12 dozen.

No, 12.

Yeah, I know what a dozen is, but I need 12 of those.

Uh, yeah, I just was, um, uh, if I could just get 12 dozen.

And could you, uh, drop those off this week?

Problem?

I don't think I asked you to sit down.

No, you didn't, did you?

Do you just kind of do whatever you want?

I have been accused of that a time or two, yeah.

You want to talk about it? Talk about what? Whatever that was.

That was a boutique bakery that normally does large pastry orders.

For the festival, but because they normally get months in advance and I'm

too close to Christmas.

They laughed in your face. Thank you for reminding me about what just happened.

So, uh, what are we going to do?

I don't know.

The clock is running out and the closer it gets to Christmas, the harder it's

going to get. And I just think that maybe Dad and Melinda were right.

Okay, so the cookies can't be bought in time, but what if they could be made?

Are you crazy?

I cannot possibly make extra cookies.

And do everything I need to do.

Maybe you can't, but we can.

Absolutely not. I told you last night. Why is your issue with me helping you?

Because you're rude and you're arrogant to start with. And I'm the only chance

that you've got.

You can't do this alone.

I have my dad.

I've got my dad. Kate, you said it yourself. You're up against the clock,

And if you want to make this festival happen...

You need all the help you can get.

We can do this together.

Can I just ask you why?

Why what?

Why do you even care? You're not from here. I mean, what is the Winter

to you?

Okay, I come from a place where tradition is strictly observed, but

simply because that's the way it's always been.

This, this,

Feels like it's purpose.

I like that.

That was a very insightful answer.

Nicholas.

Nicholas?

Yeah, I guess we haven't been formally introduced.

Not in the traditional sense, no, but you have made quite the impression.

Cassandra.

Cassie. People call me Cassie.

Cassie.

What do you say?

I would say let's get to work.

Great.

So, what made you change your mind?

I don't know.

Still not convinced it wasn't a total lapse of judgment on my part.

Well, I for one think it's nice that he's helping out.

Dad, you're still on my side. I am on your side, but I think it's great that

he's volunteering to help you. That's what makes me like him.

Yeah, but don't get too attached.

What's happening?

This tinsel's not working.

What do you mean it's not working?

Well, I showed up early to help Melinda decorate, and she put me in charge of

this tree.

I, uh... Yeah, I see.

And what's the problem?

Well, I'm trying to get it on here, but it won't seem to stay properly. It's

like it's got a mind of its own.

Have you never decorated a tree before?

Or used tinsel?

No, I've used tinsel, thank you.

I've seen it done.

You know what? Why don't you just step aside and let me fix it? You don't need

to. I can... It's only one tree, so it'll be minimal damage.

What happened to this tree?

Is there a problem? I only gave you one job, and you have hot chocolate in the

library. It clearly states on the sign. Nicholas, why don't you just step over

here with me?

Okay, break it to me gently. It wasn't that bad, was it?

Well... So, Melinda tells me that you checked out a book here

on Wintervale's history.

Oh, no secrets around here, huh? No, no, it's a small town.

Yeah, yeah, I did.

Well, of all the books here, how come that one?

I mean, not that I'm not flattered on behalf of the town.

Honestly, I was just looking for more information on the festival.

Oh? Yeah, it's kind of the reason I came here.

You traveled here for the Winter Festival?

I didn't know that anybody knew about it outside the area.

Oh, yeah, no, don't be so modest. I mean, it got a nice bit of attention.

I think there was even a magazine article that called it one of the

Seaboard's finest Christmas celebrations.

That's right, I recall.

Yeah, but that was years ago. You must have just been a child.

I don't know of any children that read travel periodicals.

No, I guess not.

I mean, I guess I was just captivated with the story of this place. I mean,

so different than where I grew up.

I kind of wanted to see it just once.

So you came all that way for this?

My family's in business, and so...

Much of our lives are centered around the details and the protocol that comes

along with that.

Moments that were purely sentimental were few and far between.

I mean, based on the articles, the importance of sentiment and taking those

moments seemed to be what the festival was all about.

So, yeah, I guess I came here to find that and just see a real Christmas.

Where did you say you were from again?

There's a little patch of land nestled between the Swiss Alps and the North

Hi.

Yeah. Yes, it's me again. I was just wondering if you have any Christmas

that are still sold out.

Okay.

Yes.

Okay.

How can we have a winter festival without Christmas trees?

Is there anything I can do to help?

Unless you can grow trees in the next 12 days, I don't think we're going to have

any Christmas trees for the winter festival.

This is a disaster.

We can't even find Christmas trees at Christmas, and the one tree that we do

have we can barely decorate.

Well, frankly, I'm just glad I'm not the only one having tree -related problems.

Whoa, whoa, whoa.

The reason that that tree fell over is because you went and clumped tinsel into

these branches, and frankly, I don't even know how that happened.

Seemed like a practical approach.

Well, okay, whoa.

Christmas is not about practicality. It's about feeling.

Well, it's not not practicality. Rules and structure are the hallmarks of

success. And how did that go for you as a tree?

Sometimes there's trial and error, but I don't think charging ahead without a

plan is necessarily a recipe for success either. I know neither of you want any

advice from me, but how come it has to be one way or another?

What are you saying?

Good planning is always a mixture of practicality and feeling.

Of course.

We've been going about this all wrong. Rather than charging ahead and tackling

everything at once, we should be dividing and conquering, using our

like Nicholas has already proven that he overthinks most tasks.

Cassie's good at leading with her heart, not her mind.

And normally, I would be offended by that.

I think. But you're right, which means our differences are what's actually

to make this happen.

How so?

I am formulating a plan.

I just need to think and maybe take the tinsel out of my hair. Why don't we meet

at Dad's later on today?

And I will stay and talk to Melinda to make sure that she is over that tree

incident. And I will duck out for that exact same reason. Thank you. I will

apologize for you.

Thank you.

Yeah, okay.

That's good, sweetie. It is. It's great. It's great. I'm going to grab this.

I'm going to grab this.

I think you're on the right path. Thank you. Thank you.

Oh, jeez, I'm so sorry.

Arthur? Your Highness, I found you.

What are you doing here?

Well, I thought it would be obvious, Your Highness.

I'm here to bring you home.

How? What?

Why? Yes, which of those questions would you like me to answer first?

Okay, first things first. How did you find me? Do you remember when we spoke

the telephone?

Yes. Yes, well, since you answered, we used the GPS on your phone to find you.

Your mother insisted.

She what? She can't do that.

With all due respect, she's the queen, which means she very much can do that.

I can't believe my own mother hoodwinked me and then sent someone to collect me

like a parcel post.

Yes, now, Prince Nicholas.

Don't call me that.

I don't understand. It's protocol to refer to you by your title.

Do they not know that you're the royal prince of... This is highly

unorthodox. Do you mean to tell me the people of this town, of this hamlet,

been interacting with you as if you're a little girl?

common citizen. Would you keep it down, Arthur? It's a little more nuanced than

that. Nuanced? I don't see how.

You come from a prestigious lineage back from the pages of history. Your family

name has import, so you're not proud. Nicholas! Yes, hey.

Hey.

Hi.

Great to see you again. Good to see you, too.

Is everything okay?

No. Yeah, yeah, just peachy. I was just, uh, just catching up with my cousin,

Arthur.

Cousin, you have family in town?

Yeah. Yeah, no, he just decided to meet me here for the holidays.

Right? It's good to be with family for Christmas.

Yes, I love a Christmas reunion.

That's right.

It's very nice to meet you. Yes, hello.

Uh, okay, well, I will expect you later at the meeting. Are you going to be

joining? I shan't. We're leaving. Oh, he'll be there.

Okay, well, it's nice to meet you.

What's this meeting? Why are you speaking this way?

My mother sent you here on a mission to bring me back, right?

Yes.

Well, in order to complete that mission, you must do one for me first.

Who?

Don't tell me now. Let's go.

Hey.

Cassie, the execs are starting to get really antsy about getting you here on

time. Yeah, I know. I'm just, um, I'm dealing with some family stuff. If they

could just give me a couple more days.

Look, I get it. It's the holidays. We all have family stuff to deal with. I

mean, I could put them off a little bit longer, but we're going to really need

to figure things out pronto.

They won't wait forever.

Yeah, I know.

I know.

How are those new designs coming?

Oh, they're perfect.

You're the best.

I can't wait to see them.

What is this?

So if you can give me an approximate idea of when I'm going to see them, I

mean... Yeah, I'm going to have to call you back.

Dear

Eleanor,

it's marvelous to see you took your dream and made it reality.

Your winter festival looks to be everything you had hoped and more.

I'm sure the photos don't do it justice.

Perhaps one day I'll get to see for myself. I hope your husband and your

daughter are well and that you all know how truly lucky you are. My regards, at

Christmas and always, M.

Wow.

Mom got fan mail for the winter festival.

I knew it was a big deal. Who is M?

Hey, Mom.

I remember that photo.

I was right in the middle of planning the second winter festival.

How I could not have been busier.

Came downstairs and said we were going to stay in and have hot cocoa and

decorate our own tree.

Even though Dad said we did not have time. You were not having it.

You just said that if we can't celebrate Christmas at home, how can we help

everyone else celebrate?

After all, Christmas starts.

With us.

Hey.

I really just want to get this right.

I want to make her proud.

Oh, honey.

It doesn't matter what happens. She already is.

Thank you.

You know what? I remember that day.

Yeah.

She could not be more irate. My mother is always upset about something.

No. No.

Not like this. She wants, no, needs you home for the Royal Christmas Ball. And I

told you I'm not going until I help these people have the festival.

How are you listening to yourself? I don't think you understand the urgency

here. Urgency is a matter of perspective, Arthur.

We told you respect, Your Highness.

But I believe it is you who is lacking perspective.

Some small town gathering pales in comparison to the Royal Christmas Ball.

I disagree.

How could you possibly...

How could you possibly disagree?

Because it's significant to me.

Yes, right. Well, yes.

I did not want to have to do this, but there's something you need to know.

And what's that?

On the Christmas of the 35th year of the heir apparent, which for you is this

year, the royal Christmas ball becomes a lawful rite of passage in the form of a

Christmas coronation.

a legal event, an official act which secures your place in the throne.

Now, if you are not present on Christmas Day to participate in the ceremony,

then ancient law dictates that you abdicate the throne and the royal line

end, dissolving the monarchy forever.

I know.

Right, which is why it's precise. Wait, what? What? What do you mean? What do

you mean you know? I mean I know, Arthur.

I'm the crown prince of the entire country. What makes you think I wouldn't

that? It's literally been part of my family's history for centuries.

What? On the telephone?

You said it was another celebration for Sue.

Isn't it?

This is not a game, Nicholas. I know.

It's my life.

All due respect, Your Highness.

What is really going on here?

Is this about that woman that you mentioned?

The one you're working with. What? No.

Because, if it is, your mother has already selected several candidates from

royal lines of neighboring nations that would make a most amenable match for a

king to be.

You don't want to date just anyone, Your Highness.

Yes.

Yes, I do, Arthur.

I mean, no, I don't. What I'm trying to say is that that is not what this

is about. And yet...

It is exactly what this is about.

I'm afraid I'm not following, sir.

Everything in my life is decided for me, to the extent that you're standing here

telling me that my mother is thinking about who I should marry without even

consulting me.

My world is dictated by centuries -old rules and traditions.

Every decision, every step has been part of some grand plan decided by someone

ages ago.

I live in a me -centric world that I actually have no say in. Just let me

finish, Arthur.

When I first heard about this place and their small -town gathering, as you

called it, I saw a group of people coming together to do something good.

And I wanted to know, if only once, what it was like to be part of something

like that.

rather than have everything just be about me.

Well, it's a beautiful sentiment, sir.

The fact remains that time is of the essence.

Ah.

Now, that's true, and not just for me, but for these people, too.

When I got here and discovered that the festival was no longer, I was crushed

until I found this one woman, this one insufferable woman

who...

was trying to bring it back for an even more noble cause than before.

So I agreed to help her.

And the clock is ticking for her, too.

Your Highness, I... I'll make you a deal, Arthur.

If, and only if, you help me help these people get their festival into a

workable place before Christmas, then, and only then, I will return with you

the coronation.

Your Highness, I... It could not be you. That's all right. I understand.

You'll just have to go home and explain to my mother why it is you passed up a

chance to save the crown.

Do tell me how the Swing Festival works.

Good.

Okay.

Attention, if I could just get everybody's attention.

Thank you.

As you know, I have gathered you all here today to talk about the revival of

Winter Festival, which will then use the proceeds to help keep the library from

closing. Now, in past years, it has taken months to plan this festival,

with food vendors and other booth vendors and more from all over the

But as we've discovered, it's just not possible this time of year, this close

Christmas. I knew it.

No, but Nicholas came up with the idea that maybe we could tackle some of these

tasks ourselves.

It's true, I did. And we were defeated by a tree.

You did that as well. But then I realized something.

I have been so worried about what this festival used to be. I am completely

missing what it could be.

What do you mean?

Think about it, Dad. The festival is not about fancy booths or five -star

vendors. It's about community.

Which is...

Kind of cool, because that means everything and everyone that we could

need to put this on is right here.

Because ultimately, Christmas starts with us.

Yeah. Great.

I like the sense of that. But what does it mean?

Well, it's like what you told me at the coffee shop.

We all bring different things to the table. And if we work really hard, we

do this together.

This seems like a terrible idea.

No,

God. Stop.

Dad. Think about it. How many times have you done this festival?

And Melinda, you work at the library.

You have access to pretty much everybody in the town. And Nicholas is great at

planning and structure. And I am really good at creating. And Arthur, I don't

have a clue because we just met. But I really could use an extra set of hands

that. Yes.

Peachy. Oh, fantastic.

So in order to do all of this, I need all of you. And I cannot guarantee that

it's going to be easy nor is it going to be successful.

But...

What do you say?

Well, you know Arthur and I are already on board.

For the library, of course. For you, absolutely.

What he said.

Okay. Okay.

Well, where do we start?

We probably get to work because we've only got 12 days until Christmas.

Anything's possible at Christmas or when you go three towns over.

I'll go get the rest.

There's others? Oh, there's others.

Here, buddy.

Thank you.

It's business, oh.

It's business, oh.

It's business, oh.

Doris the florist was willing to donate two dozen poinsettias to Santa's booth.

Oh. Which means I just need a firm commitment from the mayor, who I swear

been dodging my calls.

I also got a verbal contract from Mrs. McNulty for a dozen of those ginger

snaps, which really are worth their weight in gold. I told you.

Ginger snap. I didn't know any better. I'd almost think you were enjoying this.

Certainly not.

I'm merely doing my due diligence in service to... to... to my favorite

Mm -hmm.

Aren't you going to get that?

I shan't.

It's Dr. Humphreys, returning my call about Candy Cane Park.

Well, that sounds pressing. No, it's not.

It can wait.

It can't wait.

Dr. Humphreys, hello.

In that case, will you help me take a look at these booth layouts? I'm

it might be a bit of a mistake to put a mistletoe display...

No answer, Your Majesty.

That will not do, Reginald. That will not do at all.

Christmas is less than five days away, Your Majesty.

What do you suggest?

I don't know.

You figure it out.

Soon.

I just think if we put the candy canes next to the snow cones, then that kind

gives us the chance to have like a treat.

No, no.

No? We already talked about this.

Maybe you're right.

You look exhausted.

I think I need a break.

No, no, no. We just finished the decoration layout, and then we have to

scheduling for the... No, you need a little fresh air, and I know the perfect

spot.

Okay.

What about that guy?

Let him sleep.

He's tucking himself out, and I think he definitely needs it.

Grab the coats.

Okay.

I will add to the pile.

Aw, Wintervale.

Uh... What is it?

You know how I told you that I had heard about the festival, and that's what

brought me here?

Yeah? This is how.

I found these letters in one of my mother's old books at our house, and...

They had these press clippings and these photos, and I just, I fell in love with

the idea. I had to see it for myself.

These are in your house?

Yeah. Yeah, long forgotten relics of my mother's school days.

It's unusual, I know, but not, not unlikely.

Things get lost in old books at our house all the time.

No, they're very unlikely.

How so?

Well, this writing.

My mother's handwriting.

Crazy. Yeah, I know, but are you sure that's your mother's handwriting?

That's my mother. I grew up with her handwriting.

I would know it anywhere. The question is, how did those letters get in your

house?

They're addressed to my mother, but she's not exactly the keep -in -touch

Oh, so making friends runs in your family.

Wow.

No, honestly, she could have just put that in some old book years ago and

forgotten about it. She reads a lot.

Does her mom want to buy a library?

Unfortunately, she already has one.

I just... I think it's amazing to see what she wrote about my dad and I in

letters. I mean, what are the chances that she could write something that

actually bring somebody here?

Let alone somebody who's helping at the festival.

Maybe it was meant to be.

Maybe my mom did pull out one final Christmas miracle.

Oh, my God!

Kate?

Thank you, Wintervale.

Should we?

Let's. Okay.

This used to be my mom's favorite Christmas place.

She was a beautiful skater.

You know, I really wish I could have met her. She sounds like a wonderful woman.

She was.

We used to skate here for hours until you pretty much couldn't feel your toes

anymore. And then we would just go to the library to warm up and have some of

her special hot chocolate.

Hot chocolate?

In the library?

I know. Don't tell Melinda. Her nostalgia only goes so far without

rules.

My mom and I used to just read for hours, and I'm pretty sure we looked at

book on every shelf.

Yeah, I miss her.

I miss having someone who cares about all the stuff that I do, you know?

Yeah, I know what you mean.

Back home, Christmas just seems like this big formality.

It was never what I dreamt it could be.

Until I read your mom's letter.

Until I came here.

Until I met you.

Uh, Nicholas?

When I went to New York, it was supposed to be temporary.

And, you know, as much to follow a dream, but also just kind of a chance to

away. But they offered me a full -time position.

You're going back?

Yeah, on Christmas Eve.

But you're going to miss the festival.

I know. I want to stay here. I'm just wondering if this is...

Once in a lifetime.

Yeah.

Let me ask you something.

Okay.

Is New York what you want?

Yeah, maybe.

It's what I thought I wanted. And now I'm just thinking, what if there's

something more?

Yeah.

Okay, so we just got to do the booth layout, then the decoration layout, then

schedule a performance.

Cassie, there's something I must tell you.

You see, the thing is that I am.

Cassie!

You know how when we first met, you thought I was a royal pain in the...

Cassie?

I must confess to you that I have been withholding confidential information.

I, Nicholas, am the regent and crown prince

of Verovia.

Well, yes, we all talked to ourselves in Verovia. Thank you for noticing.

You don't get that kind of community support at NYC, hey?

No, certainly don't.

I love creating this winter festival with you, just like your mother used to

with me.

Did you know we wanted to build it up to help out our community?

Oh, goodness, the dreams we had. I don't really know that person thoroughly.

What do you mean?

Can I confess something to you?

I love New York.

And I've been dating somebody.

And now he wants me to move in with him. And it's all happening so fast.

And I just kind of think that the world that I'm living in out there is his

dream world.

But not what you imagined.

Exactly. I know all of a sudden there's Nicholas, who I barely even know, but

there is definitely...

Or fireworks or something.

Good things can take time.

Or feel like fireworks.

I remember what my husband used to say to me. You can't rush something unless

it feels right.

He's a smart man.

Thank you, Melinda.

How's it looking?

I honestly don't even know.

I've reached out to everyone on the library donor list.

Many people have offered to make something or help out, but is it enough?

Well, we'll just have to hope that it is.

You're right, you're right. Okay, but the blankets, do the blankets need to be

in that? No, but what I'm saying about the blankets is if we give them a

at the snow cone station, then they can warm up and enjoy hot cider before they

move on to the rest of the booth.

a wonderful suggestion.

Oh, see?

You're right. Now we keep them warm, we keep them longer.

Did you just say I was right?

You're right. Oh, I'm glad I got the most business -y thing I have heard you

yet. Well, I'm slowly learning.

Good.

I'm learning slowly but surely.

It's so nice, isn't it?

What do you mean?

Those two don't know how good they are for each other.

Sometimes Christmas changes people.

You would know.

I don't know if the snow cones were such a great idea. Like, the cider makes

sense. Yeah, I know. They're delicious.

What?

You okay?

You're not even listening.

There's something I want to talk to you about.

Okay. What?

Well, you see, the thing is that... Oh, my God. Hold on. Sorry.

It's work. I got to take it.

Give me a second, okay?

Yeah.

Hey. Cassie, the executives need an answer.

Well, I guess I do, too.

Ethan, I don't know how to say this to you.

It's not working.

It hasn't been for a long time, and I think we both know it.

I don't think New York is a place that I want to call home.

Well, what about everything we've been working on? What about our dream?

Well... I kind of think that it's your dream, Ethan.

And I don't want to hold you back anymore.

You are a great guy, and you deserve to be happy.

What about you?

Are you happy?

I am.

Here.

Well, I'd be lying if I said I didn't see this coming.

I know.

I'm so sorry, but I will send you the sketches and the notes, and you'll do

fantastic.

Thank you, Cassie.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Have either of you heard from the florist?

It's as if she doesn't understand that an event needs botanicals.

I can't say that we have.

Maybe that's Doris now?

Please tell me you have my florals.

Please tell me you have my son.

Your Majesty.

Who else would be calling you, Arthur?

I was beginning to think you had forgotten about me.

Your Majesty.

You're using the telephone yourself.

Yes, and it's a fact I'm not very happy about.

However, desperate times call for desperate measures.

Of course, Your Majesty.

Where is my son?

It's complicated, Your Majesty.

Prince Nicol has committed himself to a winter festival here.

What? Winter festival?

Yes, yes.

and I've been aiding him in an effort to bring him home to you expeditiously.

Arthur, I sent you there to bring back my son. It was a request that was meant

to be fulfilled quickly and with urgency.

What I did not do was send you halfway across the world to be taking part in

some small -town festival.

I can explain. I've heard enough.

I want Nicholas Hearn within the next 24 hours, or his will not be the only job

on the line.

Hey, Nicholas, can I talk to you for a second? Yeah, I've got to talk to you,

too. No, I really... I've been meaning to tell you, and now I... Hello.

May I talk to you? No, can we just have one... Just one second. No, please.

Please.

Yeah.

Just give us a minute? Yeah.

I'm so sorry.

Hey. Hey.

So, you two set aside your differences? Oh, Dad, don't be so lit. He's still

stubborn and completely frustrating, but he's charming and a little handsome.

Well, I'm just glad to see you smiling again.

You know, I found out something incredible yesterday, and I cannot

haven't told you yet.

Oh? Yeah, we were working at Nicholas' bed and breakfast, and he's got these

letters.

Letters?

Well.

I told you this would happen. You need to calm down. I just need a few more

days. Yes, but we don't have a few more days. My job is on the line. My family's

honor is on the line.

We've served the crown of Erovia for centuries.

I cannot have it end because of someone who doesn't even care about the throne.

I care about the throne.

It is my family's throne.

You're letting my mother get to you.

Yes. Yes, of course. Of course I'm letting her get to me. She could

send an army to retrieve us. An army. Is that worth it to you? For a Christmas

party? An international militaristic event?

I will not be bullied by you.

Nor my mother.

You don't give your mother the credit she deserves, Nicholas.

From what I understand, she's not one to cross.

Oh, I know who you are, Your Highness.

What? How?

I had my suspicions from the first time you arrived here.

When Cassie told me about the letters, that confirmed it. You know about the

letters? Of course I know about the letters.

My wife sent them to her friend from school, your mother.

Eleanor spent a lot of her student days abroad.

Why have I never heard about this?

They were quite close for a while.

But your mother's commitment to...

State and country soon became all -encompassing.

Eventually, the letters home stopped.

I'm sorry?

I just mentioned to Cassie the other day that life has a way of marching

forward.

Why didn't you tell us who you were?

Everything in my life is dictated by the title in front of my name.

I wanted to do something once that was not about me, not Nicholas, crown prince

and royal regent of Barovia.

But that's who you are, Nicholas.

Hey, where's everyone?

Oh, they just went outside.

Oh.

When Mary disappeared from Eleanor's life, she was hurt.

The bond I see building between you and Cassie...

is more than friendship.

And I don't want you to hurt her when you eventually do the things that you

to do.

Do you think me that shallow?

Not at all.

But I also know that there are things put upon you by other people that are

beyond yourself.

Yes, there are.

And perhaps this is the demand of those people that should be taken into

consideration.

It sounds like my mother sacrificed the solace of perhaps the only real

friendship that she ever had so that she could ensure the solace of many.

Now, I am sorry that Cassie's mother was hurt.

But the responsibilities of the crown are more than mere feelings.

The details of my life and my position are very complicated.

I'm sorry that I wasn't forthcoming with you or your daughter, but...

Everything I do must be given careful consideration.

I am a prince.

You hid this from us?

I didn't know how to tell you who I really was.

So you lied.

Cassie. You knew what the Winter Festival meant to me.

You knew what the letters meant to me. You knew about my job in New York.

You just watched me struggle.

No, you used me.

You used all of it.

For what? Some...

weird experiment on what it's like to be some kind of commoner?

You are not the person I thought you were.

Wait.

Cassie, wait.

Cassie.

Cassie, wait.

Cassie!

Wait! Okay, look, Your Highness, I am not one of your subjects that you can

boss around.

Tradition has always been so important to me.

Look at you.

You've got a family where tradition is something that...

Most people could only dream of.

You're just throwing it away.

That's not fair.

All I've been trying to do is preserve the history of my family and of this

entire town, both of which you are no longer a part of.

That's how you really feel?

Kathy, dear.

We have so much left to do, and I don't even know if we're going to get it all

done.

Why didn't you tell me about that job in New York?

It's something you should celebrate, not keep secret. It doesn't matter, Dad,

because I'm not going back.

Why not?

I don't know.

I just thought that if I did, then that means that that entire chapter of my

life and Mom is gone.

You know how sometimes you need to leave to realize that everything you could

have possibly wanted is right there in front of you?

Just because something ends, it doesn't mean it has to leave your heart. In

fact, what you've done here, what you and Nicholas did, you've proved that you

can take a memory and turn it into something new and beautiful.

Yeah, right.

Have you tried talking to him? He didn't do it for the right reasons, Dad.

Maybe Nicholas wasn't forthcoming.

But think of all the reasons why he was here. He spent time here.

He was excited to help you get all this going when no one else would step up.

That was real.

Yeah, well, I'm gone now.

Oh, honey.

Your Majesty, presenting His Royal Highness, Prince Nicholas.

You're finally home.

Good morning.

Hey.

I just talked to Melinda, and the last of the booths are getting set up in the

library area.

Would you like some coffee?

Yes, thank you.

So tired.

Well, I bet you are, honey. You've been up for two days straight.

But look what you have done.

Every

new

tradition starts with a good breakfast.

Pretty sure you just made that up. I did.

You grab a seat.

I'm going to dish you up some wall.

Special here.

Yes.

Famous scrambled eggs.

Oh, hey.

Nicholas, I picked a couple of options for the ceremony tomorrow. I just, I

can't decide because they're so different.

How would Debbie think is best, Mother?

That'll be all, Richard.

Tell me, are you still thinking about that town and those people?

How could I not?

I know you think I don't understand why you went on your escapade, but I do.

Maybe even too well.

Sit.

You see, when I was young, my friends would come back from Christmas break and

they would tell me all these marvelous stories of family and food, fun.

And don't get me wrong, it's not that your grandfather didn't provide all

things, but it was understood, as with everything we did, that...

Ceremony came first.

A family trait, I see.

There was a part of me that wanted to have one of those Christmases, where I

to wear cozy pajamas and eat too much, not have to worry about galas and

presentation.

I think that's why Eleanor sent me all those letters.

It's like she knew deep down that I needed those stories.

So why didn't you make that happen for yourself?

Traditions are very hard to break, Nicholas.

And they also make us who we are.

Would you ever regret not keeping in touch with Cassie's mother?

Oh, of course I do.

She was a very good friend.

Outside of your father, she was the only one who saw me for me instead of a

princess or a queen.

Very dear friend indeed.

But that was a very long time ago.

We came from different worlds, and... I understood and respected what Eleanor

did for her family and her friends in her town, and she understood what I

to do for mine.

But... It's sad, though, don't you think?

Letting protocol and rules dictate how things have to be. No, no, darling, you

mustn't think of it that way.

We still have our celebrations.

I mean, this is a very joyous time. It's just that they have their Christmas and

we have ours.

Well, that's where you're wrong, Mother.

How so?

Because if I've learned anything from that town and those people, it's that

Christmas starts with us.

And I think it's time we both put that into effect.

Hey. Hey, please.

Jack.

They're busy.

I know. This looks amazing. Thank you.

You guys did a great job.

No, we all did a great job.

Everybody. I'll get him out of here for you. Merry Christmas, you guys. Merry

Christmas.

Oh, those lanterns look fantastic.

I know, they're great.

Folks have really knocked themselves out. Oh, popcorn.

I'll save you your favorite.

Thank you very much, sweetie.

Merry Christmas, you guys.

Merry Christmas.

I cannot believe that this is happening.

Well, it's happening because of you.

Oh, no, it's happening because of everyone.

I mean, I had the initial idea, but it's because everybody's chipping in, right?

Can I ask you a question?

Sure.

What do you think Mom would have thought of all this?

Oh, sweetie, Mom would have been proud.

You bet she'd have been proud.

Oh, I know. Look at this. I know. Isn't it great? It sure is. I'm so happy that

they did it. Hi. Hi, Melinda.

Hi, Walt. Hi. Kathy.

Holiday Latte. It's been our best seller.

Oh, it's Christmas.

Let's live a little. I think it's far enough away from the books.

Sure.

How's it going?

Oh, too soon to tell. But even if it's not enough to save the library, it is

worth it.

It has to.

You tried and did this for us.

That in itself is a Christmas miracle.

And the whole town will never forget it.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Hey, it's good.

We'll talk to you later, okay?

Okay, bye -bye.

I

hate

to interrupt, but I do believe that letter belongs to me.

Who are you?

This is Queen Mary, sovereign ruler and royal regent of Barovia, my

mother.

I'm sorry.

All right.

I'm sorry.

Do I curtsy?

I don't know. I don't know how to clean before.

Okay, when are you going to tell me what is going on?

Walk with me.

Yes, thank you, thank you.

The way we left things, I simply couldn't bear it if that's how things

between us. No, Nicholas, the way I spoke to you was completely out of line.

I was out of line for not being completely honest with you.

Well, no, you were a stranger, and you worked day and night to give us a truly

magical Christmas.

Once I met you, I realized what was truly important.

That's what Christmas is. It's not a... out doing what's always been done it's

about people coming together yes yes and being here with you with all of you

i've seen the christmas i've always dreamed of thank you for coming back i

to i had to be here with you for christmas even if it was just this once

i became king and before you go back to your life in new york i'm not going back

to new york you're not no

I'm going to stay here, and I'm going to build my mom's legacy, and I'm going to

work on traditions in the community that I love.

No, it's great, because think about it. The festival's not going to run itself.

What about your coronation and your crown?

That's where I come from.

You see, upon his return to Vorobia, my son reminded me that sometimes we get so

set in our ways that we forget what is truly important.

And then it made me think of a very different line. Who once told me that

Christmas wasn't so much about a place, but a feeling. And those you share that

feeling with.

So, as ruler of Zorobia, I am exercising my powers.

And I'm going to have the coronation right here in this town with all of you.

You can do that?

Yes, I can.

Now, Prince Nicholas, kneel before me.

Wait, Mother.

I came here to find a special Christmas.

But what I found was a special place.

And a special woman.

I grew up with a kingdom.

But it took coming here to know what it was like to build one.

The town.

This woman.

They have my heart.

I know I have much to do at home, but I have so much to do here as well.

Nicholas, what are you saying?

Well, I would like... I would like to stay.

If you'll let me.

Yeah.

As your mother, I understand, I really do.

But as your queen...

I must remind you of your duties and commitment, not just to the crown, but

your people.

How can I fulfill a commitment to an entire nation if I can't even fulfill a

commitment to myself?

I see.

The royal law dictates that a coronation must take place in order to maintain

the monarchy.

But there is nothing that says you must begin your reign immediately.

I... Don't understand.

Plenty of monarchs have left their kingdoms in the capable hands of others

tending to matters abroad.

I believe the perfect candidate is standing right before you, sir.

Mother, you'd do that for me.

Oh, my son.

Kneel before me.

On this day, when celebration rings out across all the lands, and the end of the

year makes way for the dawn of another, I declare by the powers invested in me

by crown and state that you rise into a new era.

King of Virovia.

And?

My first order of business?

Reinstating you to the throne in my stead.

Already making such wise decisions, King Neglis.

Oh, but you are going to need a head of affairs here to advise and keep you

abreast of all important matters.

If I may, my head of affairs must be someone who has given their very heart

Virovia and its crown.

Someone who traveled across the world in order to save it.

Someone who has done his due diligence for her majesty.

Someone who has become a great friend.

Arthur?

Me.

A bold and noble choice.

What do you say, Arthur?

Stay abroad with me?

Plan another festival or two?

I... Thank you.

Oh, Your Majesty.

Melinda.

There are so many people here. They're coming in droves.

Now, we have to finish the final tally, but if the sails keep going the way they

are, we should have more than enough to save the library.

Oh, well, that's absolutely wonderful.

I'm happy for all of you, truly.

Thank you.

I don't even know what is happening.

You know, I would love to tell you all about your mother when she and I were

young and full of adventure, just like you.

I would love that.

I just wish she was here to see it.

Cassie, dear, you bring out the best in everybody and everything, just like your

mother.

Well, you must be walled.

Elsie told me so much about you. It always felt like a fairy tale.

Well... Clearly she found her own fairy tale here with you and this charming

town.

Let me show you some of Ellie that you don't know about. Some of her life that

she created here and the world that we built.

If you would do me the honor.

Yes, I will.

Do you like popcorn?

I've not tried it.

Oh, well, you're in for a treat.

I can't believe that you're here.

Well, it feels like a fairy tale that I used to read about in my book, but I

never thought that it would come true.

You can't stay away from Barovia forever.

Well, we can stay away as long as we like.

You heard my mother.

She's had some practice at this.

Barovia is in very good hands.

Besides, you and I have future festivals to plan.

Really? For someone who overthinks things, that's a lot of planning.

Well, I will need someone who leads with their heart and not their mind to be my

future queen.

Queen?

It's different.