An Eventful Christmas at Trevelver Castle

[Chris in Prague]

Lord and Lady Trevelver sat together in the cosy confines of Lord Trevelver's study, reviewing the situation's complexities with a sense of urgency mingled with determination. The room, with its rich mahogany furniture and shelves of leather-bound books, gave an air of refined sophistication to their discussion.

"My dear Penny, I believe I have a solution to our latest dilemma", Lord Charles began, his voice measured yet resolute as, slowly rubbing his palms together, he leant forward in his padded leather armchair.

Lady Penelope turned her attention to her husband; her brow furrowed in anticipation. "Please, do share your thoughts, Charles", she urged, her voice soft but attentive.

With a knowing smile, Lord Charles continued. "Considering the urgency of the situation, I suggest we substitute the missing relief supplies with specially packed hampers containing emergency necessities as well as the finest festive fare from Fortnum & Mason", he stated, his gaze steady as he awaited her response. "I've already contacted a senior member of Fortnum & Mason's management and secured their very willing assistance", he revealed, a hint of satisfaction in his voice. "He proved most eager to assist one of their most loyal and esteemed customers. Apparently, they already have a packing list and non-perishable items stored for just such situations. Such foresight is, perhaps, only to be expected, given the uncertain times we're living in", he sighed.

Lady Penelope's eyes widened in realisation as she grasped the implications of his plan. "That's quite a bold move, Charles. However, such willing cooperation will undoubtedly make a significant difference. But how do you propose we arrange such a feat, especially at Christmas?" his wife inquired, her concern evident in her tone.

Lord Charles's expression remained confident as he outlined the plan of action. "He has assured me that they can prepare and, with our assistance, deliver the hampers to RAF Northolt in time for the scheduled departure of the Westland Whirlwind to ensure that assistance reaches the people of North Cornwall without delay."

Lady Penelope nodded in understanding, impressed by her husband's resourcefulness. "That's quite ingenious, Charles", she murmured, a hint of admiration in her voice. "But what about the logistics of ensuring the hampers reach the airfield safely on Christmas Day?"

[Chris in Prague]

Lord Charles nodded thoughtfully, acknowledging the validity of her concern. "I've arranged for Giles's trusted associate, Jim Tremayne, who now lives in London, to report for duty on Christmas Day", he explained, his tone resolute. "He'll oversee the delivery of the hampers to the helicopter and, with Jeremy, ensure they reach North Cornwall without delay. They will be the authorised loaders; they have the necessary identification."

As the plan unfolded, Lady Penelope raised a valid concern, her thoughtful gaze meeting her husband's with a hint of apprehension.

"Charles, while your plan is undoubtedly ingenious, we must consider the optics of loading Fortnum & Mason's branded hampers onto a relief flight bound for North Cornwall", she pointed out, her voice laced with concern. "It will undoubtedly raise eyebrows and attract a great deal of opprobrium to Admiral Tregowan and his people as the authoriser of such a flight, especially on Christmas Day."

Lord Charles nodded in agreement, acknowledging the potential ramifications. "You're right, of course, my dear", he conceded, a furrow forming on his brow as he considered her words. "We must ensure that our assistance is discreet and does not draw unwelcome attention to the Admiral or his covert operation, albeit one for which the planning, according to our information, seems to have been uncharacteristically incomplete."

Lady Penelope's expression softened with a possible solution; her concern tempered by a sense of resolve. "Perhaps we could arrange for the emergency supplies to be packaged in a manner that conceals their origin", she suggested, her tone thoughtful as she contemplated possible solutions. "That way, we can provide the needed supplies without compromising the integrity of the relief mission."

Lord Charles's eyes brightened with approval at his wife's astute suggestion. "A splendid idea, my dear", he remarked, a smile gracing his lips as he considered the practicality of her proposal. "I shall contact Fortnum & Mason and discuss the matter further. With their cooperation, I'm confident we can find a solution that serves our purpose without inviting negative comments or causing undue delay."

With their plan decided, Lord and Lady Trevelver exchanged a silent nod of agreement, united in their determination to aid those in need in North Cornwall. As they prepared to set their plan in motion, the weight of their responsibility hung heavy upon them, tempered by the hope of making a meaningful difference in the lives of those unexpectedly cut off by heavy snow.

"Charles, we will need to inform Giles of our plan. Why don't you ask Jeremy to go to Huw's office and give Giles a call and pass on the details of your contact at Fortnum & Mason so that he can arrange the details while we spend time with our much-neglected guests?"

"Capital idea, Penny. I'll do that right away."

"And while you take care of that, I'll return to the Great Hall and resume my conversations with our guests in your temporary absence."

"Agreed. I'll inform Jeremy and lend him my key to Huw's Pantry, and then we can proceed accordingly."

"Thank you, Charles. I'll see you in the Great Hall shortly, then."

"Until then, my dear."

[Chris in Prague]

As soon as Jeremy had unlocked the door to the Butler's Pantry and closed it behind him, he entered his access code and dialled Giles, who immediately picked up the receiver.

"Giles, it's Jeremy. I have some updates regarding the situation we discussed earlier."

"Ah, Jeremy. I've been awaiting your call", Giles yawned. "Sorry, I had nodded off at my desk. What have you found out?"

"Well, as you reported, there seems to be a bit of confusion regarding the relief supplies for North Cornwall, and we think we may know why."

"Confusion? What do you mean, Jeremy?"

"Lord Charles considers that Admiral Tregowan must have intentionally kept the details confidential for security reasons. Additionally, as the operation was organised quickly, there was no time for widespread communication."

"I see. That's rather unusual, isn't it?"

"Quite. But there's more. Lord Charles suggests that Admiral Tregowan may have made such an uncharacteristic error due to the pressure of global events."

"Global events?"

"Yes, international tensions remain high, and the Admiral's attention would, understandably, been distracted."

"I see. That makes sense."

"Yes. Giles, there's another aspect to this regrettable situation. It is likely that the absence of Dorothea, the Admiral's assistant, had an adverse effect on communications."

"Ah, I suspected as much. Her absence must certainly have affected the Admiral's efficiency. So, what's the plan now?"

"Lord Charles and Lady Penelope Trevelver have devised a solution involving Fortnum & Mason's hampers."

"Fortnum & Mason's hampers? How do they fit into the picture, Jeremy?"

[Chris in Prague]

"We'll be substituting the missing relief supplies with hampers from Fortnum & Mason filled with specially selected food, drink, and necessities according to a checklist they have, previously drawn up for just such emergencies."

"I must say, that's very clever. Who'd have thought Fortnum & Mason had the foresight to detail what would be required in such emergencies? But what about the logistics?"

"Lord Charles has everything under control. He's already agreed on everything with Fortnum & Mason's senior management. You and Jim will pick up the supplies and deliver them to RAF Northolt. You can use that BR liveried Ford 400E van the Admiral has for just such clandestine situations. Its 180 cubic feet of cargo space can handle substantial loads. This reminds me: you'll need to weigh the load and ensure it does not exceed the helicopter's expected payload. It's a Whirlwind HAR.9 powered by a 1,000 hp Bristol Siddeley Gnome turboshaft engine with significantly improved performance over the earlier piston-engined variants. You still have your set of keys to the van and the lockup in Lavender Hill, near Clapham Junction?"

"Yes, of course, Jeremy. As a matter of fact, I used the van just the other day for transporting crates of wine from Hither Green Continental Depot, so I know that it's in full working order with plenty of petrol for the journey."

"Excellent, Giles. I hope you recorded your little trip in the logbook as a regular test drive to ensure the vehicle's maintained in its required state of readiness", he grinned.

"Of course, Jeremy!" laughed Giles.

"Well, it seems we're on the right track then, my friend."

"Indeed, Jeremy."

"Jim Tremayne's been informed he's to report for duty on Christmas Day to assist?"

"All organized, Jeremy. Jim is ready and waiting. He's actually looking forward to it."

"Excellent. Let's ensure everything goes smoothly. I will transmit the details of Lord Charle's contact in Fortnum & Mason to you after our conversation concludes so you can arrange the collection with him. You'll need to inform him that the emergency supplies will need to be packed in anonymous shipping crates instead of Fortnum & Mason's branded hampers."

"Understood, Jeremy. Anonymous containers will help maintain the security of the operation."

"Exactly, Giles."


At the mention of anonymous, secure shipping crates, Giles's expression brightened, a smile spreading across his face. Here was a possible solution to a shipping problem of his own.

"And there's more. You and Jim are to be the loaders. Furthermore, you both are to ride in the helicopter to unload the emergency supplies, so you'll each need to bring an overnight bag and your military identification documents. After arrival here, you'll both be guests at Trevelver Castle, where Huw and Gwen will supply anything else you may need."

"I see. Admiral Tregowan neglected to arrange loaders; I presume?"

"Yes, it seems only the two pilots forming the helicopter's flight crew were authorised. But with Jim and your assistance, everything should proceed smoothly."

"Absolutely. I'll ensure Jim is briefed and ready for the task."

"Perfect, Giles. Let's coordinate our efforts to ensure a successful operation.

"Agreed. Thanks for the additional details, Jeremy. I'll await Lord Charles's contact information and proceed with our side of the operation."

"Excellent, Giles, and please double-check that there are, in fact, no relief supplies being organised that we are unaware of."

"Well, at least I now know who's drawn the short straw and is on duty over Christmas, so rest assured, I'll make the necessary enquiries, Jeremy, just to be quite certain."

"Very good, Giles. I'll be in touch very soon. Take care."

"You, too. Until then, Jeremy."

[Chris in Prague]

Alone in her Chelsea mews flat, Lisa sat by the window, gazing out at the quiet streets below. The twinkling lights and festive decorations only served to accentuate her sense of loneliness on Christmas Eve. The warmth of the room did little to dispel the chill that seemed to settle deep within her.

Lost in her thoughts, she barely noticed the soft ringing of the telephone in the living room at first. It pierced through the silence, drawing her attention away from the melancholy scene outside. With a sigh, she rose from her chair and made her way to the source of the sound.

As she picked up the receiver, a mixture of apprehension and curiosity coursed through her. Who could be calling her on this quiet evening? With a flicker of hope in her heart, she brought the receiver to her ear, her voice barely above a whisper as she answered the call.

"This is Lisa Silverwood."

"Hello, Lisa. It's Giles Roskrow here."

"Giles! What a pleasant surprise. Is everything alright?"

"Yes, all is well, but I have some rather unexpected news, Lisa. I'll be picking you up after lunch on Christmas Day."

"Oh? Really? What's the occasion?"

"Well, we're going to RAF Northolt," Giles smiled.

"RAF Northolt? That's not too far from here. What's happening there?"

"You'll be boarding a helicopter from there to Trevelver Castle in North Cornwall, Lisa."

"Trevelver Castle? That's quite a journey for Christmas Day. What's going on, Giles?"

"It seems there's a rather urgent matter Lord and Lady Trevelver need your assistance with, and they have asked me to arrange things on their behalf. Please pack only a carry-on overnight bag. Everything you will need on arrival there will be provided as their guest, including, I've been assured, a suitable evening gown. The journey, door to door, should not take more than four hours. We should arrive in plenty of time for Christmas Day dinner, which is at 7 p.m. and is sure to be wonderful!"

"I understand. If Lord and Lady Trevelver have invited me, then count me in, Giles. I'll be ready and packed."

"Wonderful. I'll be there after lunch to pick you up. Say around 2 p.m.?"

"Yes, that'll be fine. Thank you for calling, Giles. See you on Christmas Day around 2 p.m."

"Yes. Take care until then, Lisa. Merry Christmas! Goodbye."

After receiving momentous Giles's telephone call, a wave of relief washed over Lisa, lifting the heavy weight of loneliness and depression that had settled upon her on her sombre Christmas Eve. His voice, filled with warmth and reassurance, had a comforting effect, dispelling the sense of isolation that had enveloped her.

In that brief exchange, Giles had offered her a glimmer of hope, a lifeline to pull her out of the depths of despair. The prospect of leaving her solitary Chelsea mews flat on Christmas Day for a journey to North Cornwall, especially by helicopter, seemed surreal, almost like a scene from an action movie.

Initially, incredulity washed over her as she processed the unexpected turn of events. The notion of departing from her familiar surroundings and embarking on such an unconventional journey on one of the most festive days of the year was both thrilling and daunting.

Yet, beneath the surface, a spark of excitement ignited within her. Despite the uncertainties and challenges that lay ahead, there was a glimmer of hope, an adventure waiting to unfold. The prospect of stepping outside her comfort zone and embracing the unknown filled her with a sense of anticipation she had not felt in quite some time.

Though the challenges she faced were far from over, knowing that her friend, Giles, who had always been very kind to her, would be accompanying her brought a sense of solace, unlike anything she had felt in recent days. With a flicker of optimism in her heart, Lisa allowed herself to believe that perhaps, just perhaps, there was still light to be found amidst the gloom.

With each passing moment, the initial surprise gave way to a growing sense of anticipation and curiosity. As she contemplated the journey ahead, a newfound sense of optimism began to take root within her, overcoming the shadows of doubt and loneliness that had clouded her thoughts.

Giles's unexpected invitation brought the promise of a Christmas Day unlike any other, a chance to break free from the confines of her solitude and embrace the adventure that awaited her. And so, with a mixture of apprehension and excitement, as she went about packing a suitable overnight bag, Lisa embraced the prospect of the journey ahead, ready to embark on a new chapter filled with possibility and hope.

[Chris in Prague]

In the midst of the continuing Christmas Eve festivities, the Great Hall of Trevelver Castle remained alive with activity, the dancing and revelry extending into the early hours of the morning. Despite the late hour, the celebrations showed no signs of abating, as guests continued to mingle and enjoy the company of one another.

The happy guests, still immersed in the festive spirit of the evening, eagerly awaited Enka's performance, their excitement palpable in the air. Some found respite in quiet conversations, while others danced to the soft strains of music that filled the hall.

In the warmth of the Great Hall, Susan and Huw meticulously made their final checks on the advanced digital audiovisual equipment, ensuring that every component was in perfect working order, ready to capture and amplify Enka's imminent performance. As they worked, the crackling of logs in the grand fireplace provided a comforting soundtrack to their preparations.

Finally, satisfied, Susan and Huw signalled that it was time for Sylvie and Eli to undertake the brisk walk across the Castle courtyard to collect Enka Lou-Lou from the Owl Tower, where she had been diligently practising her songs. The crisp night air enveloped them as they made their way through the dimly lit pathways, anticipation mounting with each step as they neared the inner courtyard of the castle.

In the quiet stillness of the early morning, the courtyard of Trevelver Castle lay blanketed in a soft layer of snow, its pristine whiteness casting an ethereal glow under the moonlit sky. The roofs of the ancient stone buildings glistened with a delicate dusting of snowflakes, each one a tiny crystalline masterpiece in the cold winter air.

As Sylvie and Eli made their way across the courtyard, their boots left behind faint impressions in the freshly fallen snow, adding to the quiet beauty of the scene. Ascending the spiral stairs of the tower, they found Enka illuminated by a soft glow from within, engrossed in her music, her fingers expertly coaxing melodies from the strings of her guitar. Her concentration broke as she greeted them with a warm smile, her face aglow with inner tranquillity amidst the early morning stillness.

Enka, her breath forming small clouds in the cold air, joined Sylvie and Eli as they retraced their steps back to the welcoming embrace of the Great Hall. With each footfall, the soft crunch of snow beneath their boots reverberated through the tranquil courtyard, a gentle rhythm accompanying their journey.

Despite the biting cold, an undeniable sense of excitement permeated the air, infusing every step with anticipation for the upcoming performance. Together, they crossed the courtyard, their movements shrouded in the quiet hush of the early morning. Enka, her figure outlined against the moonlit sky, exuded a serene presence, her long blonde hair adorned with delicate snowflakes shimmering in the night.

[Chris in Prague]

On Christmas Day morning, the Great Hall of Trevelver Castle was alive with anticipation as guests eagerly awaited the early morning concert by Enka Lou-Lou, the celebrated teenage singer-songwriter known as the 'Queen of Hearts'. Despite the chill in the atmosphere, the warmth emanating from the massive central hearth of the Great Hall beckoned like a beacon, drawing all who were present to its inviting embrace. With each stride, the anticipation of the impending performance grew, infusing the night air with an electric energy that seemed to crackle with excitement. As they approached the entrance to the Great Hall, Enka's heart beat with a mixture of nerves and excitement; her mind focused on the performance about to commence. With Sylvie and Eli by her side, she stepped into the warmth and light of the castle's main building, ready to share her music with the eager audience gathered within. Entering the cloakroom, the three friends discarded their overcoats, scarves and boots and shook the snowflakes from their hair. Susan was waiting with Enka's Spanish acoustic guitar, already tuned and ready.

"How are you, Enka? Everything has been double-checked and is ready."

"Thank you, Susan. I'm fine. Where is Sofi?"

"Here I am, Enka!" exclaimed a breathless Sofi, rushing to embrace the teenage singer.

"Well, ladies. Time to take the stage!"

As Enka Lou-Lou, Susan, and Sofi made their grand entrance into the Great Hall, the anticipation among the guests reached its peak, rising like a crescendo with each passing moment. With synchronized grace, Sylvie and Eli ascended the stage, standing before the eager audience. In unison, they announced, "Ladies and Gentlemen, it gives everyone at Trevelver Castle the greatest pleasure to introduce our very own Queen of Hearts, Miss Enka Lou-Lou, accompanied by Miss Sofia de La Vega, hailing all the way from Sant Cristofol in the Principality of Izaro, and our technical and instrumental genius, Miss Susan Foreman."

Stepping onto the stage as Sylvie and Eli gracefully exited on the opposite side, the trio entered into a warm and inviting atmosphere, enveloped by the soft glow of light that dispelled the winter chill. With their presence, the already charged atmosphere was infused with an extra spark of excitement, setting the stage for a truly mesmerising concert that promised to captivate all who were present.

Enka led the way, ascending the stage with an aura of quiet confidence that instantly captured the attention of the assembled guests. With her striking presence, Enka stood tall, her long, wavy blonde hair cascading around her as she prepared to captivate the audience with her mesmerising voice. Her calm brown eyes reflected anticipation as she gracefully bowed, preparing to showcase her extraordinary talent. As thunderous applause echoed through the hall, it eventually subsided into a hushed silence, signalling the beginning of the trio's performance.

The stage was meticulously arranged, with Enka positioned on her beloved metal-legged stool, her features partially obscured by a cascade of blonde hair. Draped in a flowing cream dress intricately embroidered with delicate patterns, she radiated a captivating energy that spoke of creativity and uniqueness. Bathed in the gentle radiance of three spotlights, Enka, Sofi, and Susan occupied their respective metal stools atop a small circular platform. Enka, seated at the focal point on the tallest stool, cradled her cherished Spanish acoustic guitar in her lap. To her right, Susan grasped what appeared to be a large translucent flute adorned with an intricate array of luminous buttons, while Sofi occupied the stool to Enka's left, holding a guitar reminiscent of Enka's own instrument.

"C-H-R-I-S-T-M-A-S", she began, her voice a velvet ribbon. The letters danced, spelling out love's magic. Above the stage, a chandelier's light caressed her beautiful face.

As Enka Lou-Lou began to strum her guitar, a wave of anticipation swept through the room, captivating all in attendance. Bathed in the warm glow of candlelight and flickering hearth flames, she commenced her performance, her voice weaving a mesmerizing tapestry of sound that held every listener spellbound. She sang of the Christ Child and herald angels, of mangers and shepherds. But her eyes held secrets—the ache of longing, the promise of eternity.

Despite the late hour, the energy in the Great Hall remained palpable, infused with the enchantment of the season and the promise of music that transcended time and space. As Enka's melodic introduction filled the air, it seemed as though the very walls of Trevelver Castle resonated with joy, welcoming the arrival of Christmas Day with open arms.

Despite the late hour, the energy in the Great Hall remained palpable, infused with the enchantment of the season and the promise of music that transcended time and space. As Enka's melodic introduction filled the air, it seemed as though the very walls of Trevelver Castle resonated with joy, welcoming the arrival of Christmas Day with open arms.

[Chris in Prague]

Enka exuded charisma and passion as she delicately strummed her transparent Spanish guitar, having just consumed a juicy, crisp apple to maintain her vocal clarity. The atmosphere was one of serene anticipation, with the breathless audience, including Sylvia and Eli, eagerly anticipating this very special Christmas morning performance of their beloved singer. Folk music was evolving into protest music, thanks to young artists like Bob Dylan, and Enka was a female solo singer-songwriter partially inspired by Janis Joplin, Aretha Franklin, and Diana Ross, as well as Dylan and Simon & Garfunkel but very much with a lyrical and singing style of her own. That summer, the assembled friends had very much enjoyed the open-air concert by The Beachcombers, inspired by the surfing music of the Beach Boys as well as the new Liverpool group, the Beatles, on the castle grounds.

As the concert commenced, Enka's commanding voice flooded the hall, captivating the audience with its raw emotion and melodic richness. Couples swirled in waltz-like orbits; their breaths caught on her every note. After her new song, "Starlit Cradle", she segued straight into her chart-topping hit, "The Good Times To Come", which reverberated through the room, the lyrics of the two songs echoing the spirit of hope and optimism inherent in the holiday season.

Enka's mesmerising performance went beyond her captivating voice; it was the sheer beauty and purity of her artistry that held the audience spellbound. She mixed old familiar songs with new ones as she sang of moonlit reveries, willows and dryads, lullabies, mermaids, the environment, moon maidens, troubadours and maidens, lovers and their stolen kisses, promises whispered under the mistletoe, and hearts entangled like ivy on ancient stones. Accompanied by Sofi and Susan, the trio seemed to emit a radiant glow, their dresses shimmering with ethereal elegance.

As Enka continued to sing with clarity and grace, it became evident that this Christmas Day concert would be truly unforgettable. In the electrifying atmosphere of the Great Hall, Enka's music became a personal odyssey for each listener, resonating deeply and touching the hearts of all fortunate enough to be present. With each note, the audience was transported to realms of joy and wonder, reaffirming the transformative power of music to elevate the soul and ignite the spirit.

[Chris in Prague]

"Starlit Cradle" by Enka Lou-Lou

(Verse 1)
In a lowly manger 'neath the Bethlehem star,
Lies the Christ Child, wrapped in cloth so fine.
Heralding angels sing their joyous refrain,
Guiding shepherds to witness the divine.

(Chorus)
Starlit cradle, where Heaven meets the Earth,
A miracle unfolding on this sacred night.
Silent night, holy night, all is calm,
As the world holds its breath in pure delight.

(Verse 2)
Mary, weary mother, cradles her Son,
Her heart a symphony of love and grace.
Joseph, faithful husband, stands by her side,
In awe of the miracle they both embrace.

(Chorus)
Starlit cradle, where heaven meets earth,
A miracle unfolding on this sacred night.
Silent night, holy night, all is calm,
As the world holds its breath in pure delight.

(Bridge)
Bethlehem's streets are hushed, the town asleep,
Yet the stars above sing their ancient song.
Wise men journey from distant lands afar,
Bearing gifts for the One they know can do no wrong.

(Chorus)
Starlit cradle, where heaven meets earth,
A miracle unfolding on this sacred night.
Silent night, holy night, all is calm,
As the world holds its breath in pure delight.

(Verse 3)
And in that humble stable, love takes form,
The Christ Child—hope incarnate, pure and true.
Angels, shepherds, and a guiding star,
Bear witness to the miracle we now view.

(Chorus)
Starlit cradle, where heaven meets earth,
A miracle unfolding on this sacred night.
Silent night, holy night, all is calm,
As the world holds its breath in pure delight.

(Outro)
So let us gather 'round this blessed manger,
Sing praises to the One who brings us His holy light.
For in the Christ Child's birth,
We find our peace,
And His love shines brighter than the stars tonight."

[Chris in Prague]

"The Good Times To Come" by Enka Lou-Lou

(Verse 1)
In a world of neon lights and city streets,
Where dreams ignite, and hearts skip a beat,
We dance like fireflies, each a tiny sun,
Believing in magic, knowing we've won.

(Pre-Chorus)
Oh, the nights are young, and the stars align,
We'll paint the town with colours divine,
Hold me tight, my friend, let the rhythm sway,
For tonight, my darlin', we'll find our way.

(Chorus)
Sing it loud, sing it strong,
This is our anthem, sung where we belong,
Hands up high, our hearts on fire,
We're writing our life story, reaching ever higher,
These are the Good Times, forever our desire.

(Verse 2)
Through crowded streets and midnight skies,
We'll laugh, we'll love, with sparkling eyes,
The city pulses, a heartbeat so wild,
We'll dance till dawn like a carefree child.

(Pre-Chorus)
Oh, the nights are young, and the stars align,
We'll paint the town with colours divine,
Hold on tight, my friend,
Let the rhythm sway,
For tonight, my darlin', we'll find our way.

(Chorus)
Sing it loud, sing it strong,
This is our anthem, sung where we belong,
Hands up high, hearts on fire,
We're writing our life story, reaching ever higher,
These are the Good Times, forever our desire.

(Bridge)
We'll toast to memories yet to be made,
In this electric symphony, our nightly serenade,
The moon winks, secrets whispered in the evening breeze,
We'll chase the dawn wherever it leads.

(Chorus)
Sing it loud, sing it strong,
This is our anthem, sung where we belong,
Hands up high, hearts on fire,
We're writing our life story, reaching ever higher,
These are the Good Times, forever our desire.

(Outro)
So, raise your glass, my friend, to this night,
To love, to laughter, to stars shining bright,
In this dance of life, we'll find our way,
For these are the Good Times, forever to stay.

[Chris in Prague]

Song after song, Enka Lou-Lou's performance continued to mesmerise the audience, her voice weaving a tapestry of emotion and melody that enveloped the Great Hall in a warm embrace. As she sang, accompanied by Sofi and Susan, the trio seemed to blend seamlessly together, their harmonies creating an ethereal symphony that resonated with the crowd.

Each song was a journey unto itself, with Enka's powerful vocals evoking a range of emotions in the audience. From heart-wrenching ballads to uplifting anthems, her music touched upon the universal themes of love, loss, and hope, striking a chord with listeners of all ages.

The stage was bathed in the soft glow of spotlights, casting Enka and her companions in a radiant light that seemed to elevate their performance to new heights. Their dresses, adorned with intricate patterns and shimmering hues, added to the otherworldly atmosphere, enhancing the magic of the moment.

[Chris in Prague]

A Pure Heart by Enka Lou-Lou

Verse 1:
A pure heart is but the start
Of a journey through the dark
With each step, we find our way
To the light that guides our day

Chorus:
Oh, a pure heart, true and bold
Leads us to treasures untold
In its depths, we find our truth
And in love, we find our vigour

Verse 2:
Through the trials, through the pain
A pure heart will still remain
It beats strong, it beats true
Guiding us in all we do

(Chorus)

Bridge:
Let it lead you through the storm
Let it keep you safe and warm
With a pure heart as your guide
You'll never have to hide
(Chorus)

[Chris in Prague]

The anticipation surrounding Enka Lou-Lou's performance at Trevelver Castle had already set expectations impossibly high. However, as soon as she took the stage and began to sing, it became apparent that those expectations were about to be effortlessly exceeded. Enka's charismatic presence, coupled with her extraordinary talent and passion for music, captivated the audience from the very first note. Her voice, like liquid gold, poured forth with such power and emotion that it seemed to transcend mere performance, reaching deep into the souls of all who listened. With each song, she wove a spellbinding tapestry of sound, effortlessly drawing her audience into her world of melody and emotion. By the time her performance came to an end, it was clear to all present that Enka had not only met but far surpassed any expectations that had been placed upon her.

After Enka Lou-Lou's second and final encore, Sylvia and Eli approached her, offering congratulations on the superb organisation of her setlist with its mix of old favourites and specially composed new songs. They remarked how the tempo first rose and then fell until Enka reached a climactic trilogy of pieces related to Trevelver Castle and its surroundings. The first of these, "Ocean's Embrace", recounted the tale of Cant Cove's mermaid, Morwen. Following this was "The Maiden and the Troubadour," a narrative set in medieval times within the walls of Trevelver Castle. Finally, "Snowfall Serenade" painted a picture of couples within the Great Hall that very morning, their eyes filled with love. Jeremy and Sylvia were particularly touched by this last piece, as they were described in its second verse as "the captain with eyes like the Cornish sea, She, a weaver of words. Their passion-filled glances, beneath chandeliers' glow", which served as the triumphant conclusion to Enka's set.

As encores, she treated the audience to "Twilight Tango" and "Whispers in Blue", leaving a lingering sense of magic and melody in the air.

Sylvie and Eli shared a laugh as they remarked on Enka's impressive repertoire of new songs, joking that her manager would want a full album rather than just a 'Live At Trevelver Castle' three-track 7" EP. They marvelled at how Enka's performance had exceeded all expectations, leaving no doubt that her talents deserved a much grander showcase.

[Chris in Prague]

After Enka Lou-Lou and her two accompanying musicians finally left the stage, Susan smoothly transitioned the digital sound system to her carefully curated playlist, ensuring that those couples still eager to dance could continue to enjoy the music. Meanwhile, Sylvie, Eli, Enka, Sofi, Susan, and Jeremy went in search of refreshments. Gathering what they found, they ascended the stairs to the minstrels' gallery, where they could sit, eat, drink, and unwind in the cosy ambience away from the bustling activity below. The gallery provided a serene retreat, offering a vantage point from which they could observe the festivities while enjoying their own private moments of relaxation.

"That's quite some playlist you've compiled, Susan", remarked Sylvia to their friend seated nearby, next to the compact digital controls. Please, give us a quick summary."

With a chuckle, Susan entertained her friends, recounting her dilemma in crafting the playlist for the gathering. "You know", she began with a grin, "it was quite a challenge remembering that we're in December 1962!" Her friends chuckled along, anticipating her next words. "I had to leave out so many of my favourite tunes from the future", she admitted with a playful sigh. "I mean, there are just too many fantastic dance songs from later years!" Her remark elicited more laughter, adding a light-hearted touch to their conversation and underscoring the fun and nostalgia of the occasion.

"But here's what you have heard and are about to, with why I chose them. I have tried to blend dance music from various eras, creating a nostalgic yet lively atmosphere. After Enka's final encore, I just had to begin with 'In the Mood' by Glenn Miller, from 1940, a timeless big band classic that never fails to get people on their feet and dancing. Its Beats Per Minute, BPMs, are around 120."

"Very good, Susan", laughed Eli, "because we were all in the mood after Enka's amazing performance!"

Indeed", Susan replied with a grin, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "That had to be followed by 'Rock Around the Clock' by Bill Haley & His Comets, an iconic rock and roll anthem from 1954. It defined the music scene of the 1950s and remains a favourite for dancing, clocking in at approximately 176 BPM. Continuing the theme, next up is 'Johnny B. Goode' by Chuck Berry, from 1958. It's another pioneering rock and roll song with its energetic guitar riffs and catchy rhythm, perfect for shaking off any post-concert fatigue, at about 168 BPM."

"Moving closer to 1962", Susan continued, her excitement palpable, "we have 'Twist and Shout' by The Isley Brothers from last year. It's a high-energy twist song that's already become a sensation, inspiring dance crazes and joyous celebrations at around 128 BPM. Paired with that is 'Let's Twist Again' by Chubby Checker, also from last year, another twist classic that encourages everyone to hit the dance floor at approximately 165 BPM and relive the carefree spirit of the early '60s that the future will remember."

"From this year", Susan added, her enthusiasm undiminished, "we have another wonderful pair. 'The Loco-Motion' by Little Eva is a catchy pop song with its infectious beat and simple dance steps, ideal for keeping the party atmosphere going strong at about 120 BPM. Following that is 'Do You Love Me' by The Contours, a dynamic soul and R&B hit that invites listeners to move and groove with its irresistible rhythm and soulful vocals, around 126 BPM."

"Of course", Susan added with a smile, "I couldn't forget 'The Twist' by Chubby Checker, from 1960 but re-released this year. It's the song that started the twist craze, with its upbeat tempo and easy-to-follow dance moves making it a perennial favourite for any dance party, at approximately 128 BPM. As for the rest", she concluded, "you'll have to wait and listen! I hope everyone enjoys them as much as I did curating them!"

"These songs certainly create a lively and upbeat atmosphere, encouraging our guests to dance and enjoy themselves well into the morning", grinned Sylvia. "Cheers to everyone!" as they raised their respective glasses.

[dannyboy]

What a playlist! And I remember doing the twist at the 'Mecca' in Bradford a 'few' years ago - I think I would struggle just to walk on to the dance floor now.