#'cause everytime we touch/i feel the static: bless & node & volt

[familylightfox]

@reflections-of-mobius asked:

There was a soft glance between emerald and hazel, a moment of doubt solidified only in that the two would be approaching this together. They breathed in, a collective soft inhale as they turned their attention towards the door of the inn. The sun's rays were high overhead, illuminating the world in bright hues.

But the two mobians couldn't help but be nervous- they had up and disappeared months ago, the only warning they'd given that they'd be back in due time... But it had been so long. Cautiously, each reached out a hand- the usual sight failing to bring chuckles to the tired couple's muzzles, this time. They jointly knocked on the inn door, waiting for it to open as soft smiles finally, finally dawned on their faces.

"Been a while!...sorry about that, guys.." Bless chuckled quietly, scratching at the back of his head with an apologetic smile. He couldn't hide his tail that had slowly begun to wag back and forth. Call him hopeful, but he'd missed the two a lot- and even seeing their faces after so much work made it all worth it.

"...hope you don't mind we dropped by?" Node tilted their head slightly, an ear flicking slightly back. "How've you guys been?" They weren't sure what to expect- and that made them just a hint nervous (who were they kidding, they were a bundle of nerves).

The two had already agreed that, if this went well... They'd have to find some way to make it up to the hybrid and his daughter- but that would be a hurdle for the future. Right now... They just wanted to reconnect, after so much time away. However the two hybrids reacted... The couple would accept it.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

It was always an odd look given to the door whenever someone knocked. The Inn was always open to anyone and almost everyone that came to the village knew to just walk right in, but the knock was familiar. So was the energy behind it.

Volt knew that energy by heart, held it within his heart if one looked close enough, and quickly came around the counter in order to open the double doors. The instant his eyes looked upon those familiar faces, his arms were spread and both of them were pulled in for a tight hug. He took turns on who was getting the bulk of his cheek rubbing against theirs and also snuck a few kisses where he could while they spoke.

"As if I would ever be mad 'bout you comin' t' visit." Words were so easily muddled by the deep rumbling purr that had settled into his throat, but what might not have been conveyed in words, certainly were in his actions. A small gathering of tears had formed in the corner of his eyes upon being reunited with the two Mobians who held his heart.

"Bless! Node!" Harmony's call came from behind the pair, having been just making her way home from picking up supplies in the market. While she wasn't willing to dump the packages in her arms, a pep in her step allowed the teen to close the space and set it all onto the porch first.

A moment later and Volt laughed as his daughter lifted all three adults into the air to give her own hugs.

"Daddy and I missed ya so much! Where ya been? Ya gotta tell us all about whatcha been up t'!" Already her thoughts were going a mile a minute, needing to be tapped on the arm by her father's fingers to pause long enough for him to get a word in edgewise.

"Pumpkin... I'm sure they'll be more than happy t'... On their feet."

"Huh?" Emerald eyes blinked, pink suddenly crossing the powder blue muzzle. "Ooops..."

Harmony set them down, backing up with a wag of her tail while also scratching at the back of her neck. It was easy to see that she would have been more than willing to dive right back in for hugs the second she was given a chance.

[familylightfox]

They were in agreement. The smile was all that the hybrid needed to see in order to give Node a wink before focusing on their other partner. Bless’ humor might have tried to hide his pain, but Volt knew better and reached out when the space between them closed to smooth some of the raised quills. A soft purr rose at the kiss and he followed back out into the hallway.

“Oh don’t worry love. We’re saving all the time up for the rest o’ the night.” As if he hadn’t already picked up on what their night was going to consist of. And that he was all for it.

Yet he still gave a playful growl at the passing touch, oh so tempted to get one of his own but he knew better. They’d never make it out the door to stargaze if that was the case.

Violet eyes flashed in promise as he made his way to Node and offered to take the messenger bag. The weight always sat better on his cybernetic shoulder anyway, and they could get a certain werehog in the middle this time for the walk. It was all about pampering partners.

“Lead the way.”

Node glanced up at the gentle kiss, their ear flicking away from the sensation- though it was far from unwelcome. A faint smile crossed their face at the suggestion- they could figure what the other's intent was, and they were for it. Sure, Bless' transformation was something that happened every night- but he'd been the one to suggest the three all go stargazing- so it only made sense to make sure he got the most enjoyment out of it.

"...I say 'let's do it'." The rest of the blankets were quick enough to fold- added to the messenger bag to make sure everything was set up, before they picked up the laden thing. Their steps were quiet as they made their way to the door- hearing Volt's voice from down the corridor to the bedroom, finding their smile widening a fraction.

"...just finishin' getting changed,..." Bless' attempt at humor was accompanied with him gritting his teeth. His nails were sharp, his teeth transformed into fangs- the last of the fur was growing in as he stood from the bed. Purple fog drifted off him, quickly evaporating into the air as he shook his shoulders- trying to offer the hybrid a lighthearted smirk. "Are you and Node ready, Romeo?" He couldn't resist sneaking a peck to the hybrid's cheek as he got close. "Or should I give you two a few more minutes?"

Words spoken as his smirk melted into a soft grin- fangs on display for that brief moment. He stepped out of the room- but not before offering Volt a passing touch, claws drifting along fur. A faint warning that Bless had other thoughts in mind for 'stars' tonight, but it wasn't something he'd push- not unless both his partners were interested.

[galaxies-unknown-a]

I used to do this, and I’ve officially decided I’ll be returning to the practice- if you’ve interacted at least twice, if not more (in the past six months or so) please like this post if you want your muse to get their own tag on this blog! I’ll list under the cut a few of the tags that will be enacted going forward, and hopefully update the tags page later tonight (as well as a few relationship pages, glancing to you Mog--). For now...

TAG DUMP UNDER THE CUT!

[‘cause everytime we touch/I feel the static: Velte] - Bless x Node x Volt Owned by familylightfox/Mog and m’self

[took the pain/found my own way: voltage lightfox] - Owned by familylightfox/Mog

[dark or light/always shining bright: harmony lightfox] - Owned by familylightfox/Mog

[hellish son/with a heart undone: moxxie devoe] - Owned by sharpshooternomoremoxxie

[blurred blues and determination hues: arrow the hedgehog] - Owned by chaosworthy

[never down/ever lost/I’ll come back/no matter the cost: storm the hedgehog] - Owned by speedsternomore

[familylightfox]

@reflections-of-mobius asked:

“Am I the only one out of all of us who doesn’t get floofier when certain criteria are met?” It was a random question- suddenly voiced as it struck the fox. Volt could enter his feral or monstrous states (both of which Node considered ‘extra floof’ modes), Bless became a werehog at night…and them?- Nadda. “…n’ no, I’m not countin’ shampoo.” They nuzzled between their two partners with a quiet groan. “…least fluffy…” A small pout formed on their muzzle. They weren’t genuinely concerned about it- more playfully disappointed.

While not exactly a statement that Volt was expecting, he had to chuckle at the soft grumbles from his partner that followed. There were still a few hours in the day left before the sunset, and so he considered things for a moment before slipping one arm around Node where they were sitting.

Of course, the arm hadn't remained its normal size.

Fur darkened and grew, or maybe that was just the muscles underneath it. The soft chuckle deepened ever so slightly as the hybrid shifted to be better positioned to scoop them up and draw them into the fluffy barrel chest.

"Guess this means I'll just have t' share some o' my fluff with ya."

[familylightfox]

Just a cute little something for @reflections-of-mobius of Volt being sneaky with his partner Node. And the resulting revenge from both his partners that night~

Slowly but surely, I have been testing new brushes and canvas sizes to find the perfect ones that help me not feel overwhelmed and stressed about drawing.

Free to Reblog/Do NOT Repost

Node & Bless belongs to @reflections-of-mobius/@toshinoris-spouse Volt belongs to me

[familylightfox]

@reflections-of-mobius asked:

The darkness was deep, but not altogether unwelcome, tonight. As the three mobians laid in bed, little more than a tangled mess of fur and limbs, Volt might find himself receiving a small nip to the ear. There was no pain intended behind it- not enough force to hurt, just the gentle drag of teeth along the edge from Node, followed by Bless humming as he kissed the hybrid's cheek. Not a word had been exchanged between the two when they began- and there was little intent to stop in either's soft ministrations. His neck, his ears, his cheeks...anywhere that was near them, the two were content to peck and 'nibble', soft purrs rumbling in either throat. What better way to end a long day, than with soft cuddles between loved ones?...even if a few of those little pecks and nibbles had a bit of a deeper intent behind them. There was a faint murmured 'love you', caught somewhere in the air between gentle affections. Had Bless and Node asked Volt to be the center of the fur-sandwich tonight on purpose...? Yes. Yes they had.

A small part of him knew that this was going to happen. After the stunt pulled earlier that day with Node and the occasional teasing he did to Bless. It was only a matter of time before his partners would get revenge.

It just so happened that it was when they had laid down that night.

The soft breath against his ear had been enough to get a shiver, and the red tipped appendage quivered against Node's lips. He'd barely had a moment to glance in their direction when the kiss came to his cheek.

Now he understood why they had asked him to be in the middle tonight. Another shuddering breath escaped from his parted lips as Bless moved along his jaw and neck. That teasing tongue slid along his pulse. Between the two of them, it was no wonder his muzzle was flushed red as quickly as it was. One hand gripped Node around their back, claws accidentally tearing the fabric of their shirt as the other buried itself within the werehog's quills.

As if he could somehow pull either of them closer to him. Their muffled words of affirmation against his fur earned soft calls of their names from his parted lips. His eyes went from one beloved to the other, trying to reciprocate the affections where he could.

But if one thing was clear. They planned to make a right mess of him that night. And he was perfectly okay with that.

[familylightfox]

@reflections-of-mobius asked:

"I hope they like this..!" Node appeared in the kitchen, holding a carton of-- something. The top of it was covered in snow, the box's edges painted a pale, light blue- and the fox was smiling from ear to ear. They tossed the box onto the counter- causing a bit of snow to jump off, forming a powdery ring around it. "381, 381..." Node mumbled the world's number to themself. They reached forward, popping the top off. Fog rolled out from the frozen treat, drifting idly over the counter- nearly like the fog given off by dry ice, a faint, white wisp. They pulled out their phone, all but tap-dancing on the spot.

[Brought some ice cream home from 381! Come inside if you guys want any! ^^ 🍨] The mobian turned back to the kitchen proper, their tail swishing from side to side. The ice cream within had small dark-brown bits- presumably, it was chocolate chip. The tips of their hands were all but a buzz, rapidly clapping together to create a very small tapping noise. They figured, since it was a bit hot out today, ice cream would be a good treat for the four.

Four teenagers were not about to turn down ice cream after spending the day doing chores around the village. The moment Harmony's communicator went off, they made it a point to sprint back up the hill to the Inn. Volt had been finishing up the daily watering of his garden when he heard their approaching footsteps and chuckled.

"They're gonna demolish that." He chuckled and closed the space between them for a quick kiss before the teens entered the kitchen.

No need for them to start teasing, but four pairs of eyes were focused on the box on the table more than anything else. Another chuckle rose as they all paused, waiting for Node to give them the go-ahead before grabbing bowls and portioning it out so everyone could have enough to satiate the heat.

From the first bite, it was clear that the dessert was a favorite among teens. Tails wagging, eyes sparking, and excited chatter shared between them at the rich and creamy texture melted on their tongue.

"This is so good!" A chorus of joyous sounds came from the rest.

"MmmmHmmm! This is great Nom! Perfect for the summer!"

[familylightfox]

@reflections-of-mobius asked:

Harmony had definitely started off Christmas with a bang- Bless and Node couldn't have been more overjoyed about the mugs they received- but of course, the two still had presents of their own to offer Volt and Harmony- after all, they'd been waiting quite some time for this. "I promise, I stayed in this universe this time..." Node grinned slightly. "But it was temptin'...." They pulled their gifts for Volt and Harmony from behind their back (given the lack of space there, one could only assume they'd teleported the gifts). One nearly appeared like a giant tootsie roll, the tag reading 'for the Power Duo'. The other two- stacked on top of one another- were relatively small boxes. "The big one's from both Bless n' I..." "And don't think I didn't get you guys gifts, either!" Bless disappeared for a moment- a soft breeze blowing from where he'd been standing. He returned in nearly no time at all- grinning. There was the briefest flicker of nausea in his eyes, but it was gone in a moment. "--maybe that was a few too many turns, yet...still...!" He breathed out. Two boxes were offered- a rather small one to Volt, and a slightly bigger one to Harmony. The 'Power Duo' roll, when unwrapped, was revealed to be two scarves- one purple, and one a fluctuation between shades of blue. The purple scarf ended on either end in small, lighter-purple (nearly pink) lightning bolts, twisting into the fringes at the very bottom. The shaded blue scarf nearly seemed to start bright at the center, darkening gradually, before fading to near-black at either end- with matching crescent moons surrounded by faint stars. "...we figured we could all go out some time...y'know---...in all the scarves n' whatnot." Node smiled lightly. "...had t'request these t'be made, since Bless n' I..." "Let's just say I'm not nearly as good with a needle as I am with chisels or gouges..." One of Bless' ears flicked. "But it'd be really fun to learn!...then I could actually make you guys scarves, next year." And it'd be a way to spend time together- the thought of which made his tail wag. "Oh yeah- open it!" Bless was by Volt's side when the hybrid went to open the small box he'd given. Inside...was a bracelet, carved from petrified wood- with a rather smaller 'watch face'...on which was a carving in the wood- the impression- of two hybrids, a hedgehog, and a fox. "....your powers knock out most tech, and I figured my regular stuff would burn...so...I spent some of my downtime practicing with petrified wood. That way, you could have something of us- no matter what happens." "...I know Bless n' Harmony go t' the mines together every now n' again, so I thought... 'Why not a rock tumbler'?" Node chuckled quietly as Harmony opened her gift from them. "Though thanks to you, I have an idea for what to get you for your birthday next Halloween, Harms." They grinned good-naturedly. "Annnnd I couldn't stop myself." Bless hummed as Harmony opened her next present. Like Volt, she'd received another carving- this one made of varying types of wood- a dark espresso for the back, black and antique cherry wood making up a small clearing in the 'woods', with country pine for a sky up above...it was a carved image of the woods that everyone had camped in half a year past. "You know me- can't help but carve...well. When I'm on a running diet, anyway." The small box for Volt contained two stones- one that was a swirling mixture of brown and red, the other, a fuchsia shade. Node's tail moved back and forth on the couch. They couldn't resist for a moment, leaning over to nuzzle Volt's cheek while Harmony and Bless were busy in what seemed to be a battle of who could hug harder. It wouldn't surprise Node if the two tried to turn it into a match of some sort. "...I saw them while we were out shopping one day, n'...well. They reminded me of you." Node chuckled quietly. Underneath the stones was a single, small piece of paper. [Thank you for being part of our lives, Funke.] [Merry (belated) Crisis (or Happy Holidays!)]

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

[OOC: And A Merry Yule to you as well]

Despite having been dating for a while now, Volt still was occasionally surprised by his partner's ability to teleport items like that. Seeing them suddenly appear had raised his eyebrows, but his smile matched that of his daughters as they took them and set them carefully on their laps.

Father and daughter took to opening the one for both of them first, eyeing the scarves before taking them in hand. The craftsmanship was familiar and he looked up with a smirk. "What did ya bribe my mum with for these?"

It was a tease, knowing full well that Node had only needed to mention who they were for and Heidi would have gladly put down her projects to work on them. Anything to spoil her adopted son and granddaughter. Harmony had already wrapped hers around her neck and was snuggling the soft yarn with a wag of her tail.

"They're perfect. And this means we can go out later and get dinner at the longhouse." That sounded like a perfect way to break in their new gifts. Bless with his scarf and Node with their new jacket she had seen her father get them. But now she moved on to watching her father open his gifts. Violet eyes looked over the bracelet as his fingers gently moved over the engraved 'watch face'.

Since the hedgehog was right beside him, it was easy to turn his head and place a soft kiss to the tan cheek. "I love it."

And he proved that by carefully getting the bracelet over his bare organic wrist. The added bonus of giving him something to fiddle with on days when he was dealing with the lost feeling of no longer wearing his regulators. As he opened the small box, his arm looped around Node when they joined him on the couch. A quick little cuddle in thanks for the stones.

"They're beautiful love." He nudged their nose together. "But I think I should be thankin' you 'n Bless for lettin' us into your lives."

With her father distracted by his partner, Harmony took to opening her gifts. The rock tumbler was going to be getting plenty of use. So much sea glass and smooth gemstones could be made into jewelry with it. Already her mind running rampant with ideas of what to make. But it was Bless' gift that had her eyes widen.

Who could forget the awesome camping trip they all took together. It looked so amazing and the teen already had the perfect spot in her room to put it so it would be safe and she could look at it whenever she so chose.

"Thank you so much!" The teen set the gift to the side, to make sure it wouldn't be damaged before she pounced on her pa in a hug. Volt had managed to stifle a small snort at the sight, mainly when she picked Bless off the ground to win the hugging match.

[familylightfox]

@reflections-of-mobius asked:

With the first snowfall of the season beginning, and his recovery well underway... Bless had elected to take up shopping that evening, alongside Harmony. There were some things he wanted to get as a surprise- namely, some ingredients for a certain hybrid's favorite dessert, and possibly some wintery decorations for the inn itself..

With a few rings from his savings, he'd even gone so far as to get a small block of wood to carve in his spare time. Sure, the first winter they'd all spent together, Bless had gifted Harmony and Volt a carving a piece...and he may have been thinking of another...but there was a different idea in mind, this time.

"I think we've got everything, Harms." He hadn't tried to hide the wooden block, knowing that might result in more suspicion. Instead, he was lax as he made his way back to Harmony in the market square, feeling a few flakes of snow settle into his thicker fur as he did. "Everything we need, anyway...you up for sneaking a few surprises to Node and Volt with me?" There was a twinkle of merriment in his eyes. There was fun in offering happiness to everyone- but... It was more fun to share.

He'd also have to figure out some things to get Greta, Edgar, Heidi, and Augustus...those four had been insanely accommodating during Node and Bless' recovery...and he wanted a way to show his thanks. The werehog shook his head. Stuff to sort later...for now, he just wanted to enjoy a nice night back at the inn...once he and Harmony finished hunting down groceries, of course.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Shopping in the market was something Harmony was used to. More often than not, especially on busier festivals, the teen made the trips for her father so he could focus on running the Inn for all their guests. So she hadn't minded at all that Bless had come along with her that evening to pick up a few things.

Although her only stipulation was the werehog wasn't allowed to carry any of the heavier items. Not until he was back to his old self and made a full recovery. Plus it wasn't like the packages she had on one shoulder were considered in any way heavy to her. A look was given skyward as the snow began to fall, softening her smile as a few flakes landed on her nose. Her attention shifted to Bless when he walked over and spoke.

"I think the only thing we're missin' was the tea daddy wanted us t' pick up but the vendor's outta it right now." She shifted the box of groceries on her shoulder and raised a brow at the next question. "I dun mind. Whatcha thinkin' for 'em?"

Of course, the teen was down to get stuff for her dad and Node. Her smile said as such as she looked around the stalls and spotted one thing that hadn't been on their list.

"Pa errrr... Bless. Over here." Since she had one hand free, it was used to point over to where Royce and Liam were sitting with their usual selection of sweets and snacks. A hot chocolate bomb in the shape of a strawberry with flecks of dried fruit sprinkled along the decorations. And orange candies with a nice crunch and surprise flavor pouch in the middle.

Those looked like the perfect treats in her opinion for them to take home. On top of whatever Bless found while he looked around.

[familylightfox]

@reflections-of-mobius asked:

Both the mobians awoke with a start, hearing Volt's scream right before the night light in the room flickered and died. They didn't even look at each other as they rushed from the bedroom, making their ways downstairs towards the currently-electrified hedgefox, tiredness replaced with concern and worry.

"Volt??" Node took a step closer- keeping just enough away to avoid getting zapped.

"Did something happen?" Bless' inquiry came second. "....are you okay?" He had noticed the electricity, one of the few sources of light in the now-darkened inn.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

He hadn't meant to wake them. They had been so busy in their own Zone for so long that Volt wanted them to be able to have the time to relax and recover. He should have known that an outburst like that would draw their attention.

Red tipped ears flicked at the approaching steps and the hybrid's gaze rose to look at his partners. The moment Node had taken a step, one hand was raised as if to ask them to stop, then quickly returned to what would possibly be seen as hugging himself.

As if that would somehow contain the sparks that continued to arc along his fur.

"I-I'm okay. Just..." A breath was taken to calm himself, softly glowing violet eyes moved from Node to Bless before he continued. "I'm okay.. Just had a disagreement... Kinesis is.. a bit unstable... I'll be fine...

"Jus'... Don't touch me right now."

[familylightfox]

@reflections-of-mobius asked:

"Never exempt from presents, it's the law." Node had all but hummed as boxes had appeared, dropping less than a centimeter onto the floor in front of both Volt and Harmony. "Don't care how many years I know you guys, you're always gettin' somethin'." They laid an arm on the armrest, tail swishing off to the side of their leaning-stand.

"Of course, there's one or two you'll be getting later, V..." The werehog would leave his boyfriend to guess on that whispered remark, but there was hardly any doubt as to what the two 'missing' presents would consist of.

Inside of Volt's box, there was a new wood carving- it seemed the werehog had every intent to slowly-but-steadily fill the entire home with carvings, until not a surface remained that didn't have at least one bobble or another he'd hand-crafted. It was even painted, delicate strokes each administered with care to resemble the four, all gathered around a campfire that (with a small flick of a hidden switch) seemed to glow from within.

And for Harmony, of course, several more photos- though these were actually of her training with her friends, each nearly 'sliced' into a carved holder, surrounded by webs and small, wooden spiders- the words 'The Rookies' etched into the front of the holder. Much like the small fire surrounded by each of them, this had been hand-painted- pitch-black spider shells nearly glistening in the light, cobwebs of silver and a base that had a neat coat to it to keep it from being easily destroyed.

"Bless did th' carvin', I did th' paintin'. It was- somethin' else, tryin' t'figure out how t'paint..." Node laughed quietly, scratching the back of their head. "But for now,....put those down, 'cause I got another present for ya both!" Only once the two wooden items had been secured did Node dare to pull their partner and daughter into a hug- one that Bless was all-too-eager to join, practically smushing them all slightly together.

[From the sillies, to the sillies- Merry Crisis and Happy Yule/Holidays, mate. ^^]

Volt chuckled at his partner's comment, smiling at them from where they sat before reaching down to pick up the gift. It didn't take long for Harmony to follow suit with her own. The wrinkled muzzle expression she shifted to her pa said that Volt hadn't been the only one to hear the comment, but nothing was said about it as stubby claws made quick work of the wrapping paper.

The way her eyes lit up, Volt swore they could have rivaled the festive lights around the Inn.

As if he were going to mind their home being decorated with Bless' carvings. Many of the shelves held quite a few already, around their daughter's collectibles.

He turned the carving one way, then the other. Every detail he could see was noted in his mind before he had even flicked the switch his fingers had found while holding it. The sudden light had been enough to get Harmony's attention as she looked it over.

"These are so cool! Thank ya so much Pa!" If Node hadn't initiated the hug, the teen would have. But there was still something so comical about how she could easily lift all three of them off their feet when returning the affections. A chuckle from her father getting her to put them back down before weaseling her way into the werehog's chest fluff for a good ol fashion nuzzling.

And while their daughter did that, it allowed Volt to slip the gifts he had gotten his partner to them with a smile.

For Node, it was a pair of brand new snow boots to help keep them warm while walking the village, matching with the coat he got them before. There was also a Stained glass window decoration in the colors of their chaos energy, in the shape of a heart.

For Bless, it was a set of new carving tools, as well as a scarf. Maybe a touch large for his day form, but then again... The look on Volt's face said it was for as he was then. The one for his day form was wrapped inside the larger one.

((And a Merry Christmas/Yule to you as well.))

[familylightfox]

@reflections-of-mobius asked:

Halloween- or rather, the Samhain Festival, had come once again. And with it came an event that caught a certain fox and hedgehog's attention far more than the costumes and spider webs, caramel apples and bonfires and spells...a certain fluffhog's birthday. So while the duo had definitely dressed for the night, mixing up a few regions' mythologies in their 'wine god and his Valhallan prince lover' mish-mash, but they were definitely enjoying themselves. (Node mayyyy have tried to convince Volt to join in, but they weren't about to push the hybrid if he had another costume idea in mind).

"Don't think I forgot about what day it is, Harmony!" The fox teleported right beside their daughter with a laugh, adjusting the golden wreath atop their head that had nearly fallen off when they'd all but scrambled to snag their gift for her from another dimension. If there was one thing Node loved about being part of the hive-memory, it was being able to trade with their duplicates for out-of-this-world presents, each and every time a loved one's birthday came around.

"I kindaaaa commissioned this from an alternate, based on the memory of you telling us about your time as Super!Harmony..." They handed over the thin thing- wrapped cautiously with paper decorated in spiders and pumpkins. Upon pulling open, the teen would find a single piece of parchment underneath- the black-and-white art that Node had gifted to Harmony a few weeks ago redone entirely, now in color- the image shifting into a pose that could closely be equated to a 'punch' near the end- Harmony's 'Super Form''s eyes narrowed, her muzzle scrunched with annoyance.

Admittedly, they'd wanted to get her something more personal this year, than another item they traded off of an alternate- and this was as close as they figured they could get. A box appeared in their hand once they figured she'd had enough time to mess with the piece- and the 'prince' jumped to their side.

"I actually grew this, believe it or not! Though it definitely took a lot of practice." Bless chuckled, fingers idly tapping on the hilt of his sword. The box was wrapped in paper that had cartoon-esque wind designs on it, a card on the top reading 'Happy Birthday Harms! Love, Pa'. Inside the box, however...was a flower- trapped in glass, to keep it from wilting. The petals were a soft indigo shade, slowly fading towards the edges into a faint, powdery blue reminiscent of the fluffhog's own fur. In the light, there nearly seemed to be shimmering lines in the petals- stronger towards the center, and fainter towards the edges. This flower was atop a small carving- a 'stand' of sorts with Harmony's new arm/hip markings repeated around the base, holding it aloft.

"Happy birthday, Harms! Here's to sending enemies packing for another year, and hopefully a lot of wrestling matches to come." He grinned, fangs flashing. He moved his hand- slow enough that Harmony could dodge if she wanted, but he wasn't above ruffling her hair- even if it messed up her costume.

Thankfully for the pair, Volt never had a problem matching a costume idea and was dressed with the help of Node with his outfit. It didn't get in the way of his duties so that was one plus and he could still move around those gathered to see what his partners had gotten their daughter.

Or in this case, made her.

The teen was careful to set her costume prop to the side when taking the item from Node. The way her smile grew as she pulled the paper away said it all, but she still threw her arms around the fox in a quick hug after looking it over completely.

"This is so cool! And ya nailed how I said I looked. Ya didn't even get t' see me and ya nailed it! I'm gonna put this on the wall in my room tonight. Thank ya! Thank ya! Thank ya Nom!" One more cuddle for good measure before she was willing to take Bless' gift. Volt was careful as he took the first and held it for the time being. He'd put them both in her room for safekeeping when she was done.

Her eyes were glued to the flower, turning the glass this way and that to see the way the shimmering would move along the petals. She knew this couldn't have been an easy feat and that made it all the more special that it had been gifted to her from her pa.

"I love it." Trying her best to keep from getting emotional, Harmony wagged her tail and all but buried herself in the werehog's chest for a hug. A few extra nuzzles snuck before she drew back and took the picture.

"I'm gonna put the flower in my windowsill so the sun and moonlight can make it shimmer all the time. Thanks Pa. Nom. You guys are the greatest."

[familylightfox]

@reflections-of-mobius asked:

"Th' marks don't hurt or nothin', do they?" After Node had finally pulled away,...they couldn't help the first question to tumble from their mouth. Though, they were certain Harmony- as well as her friends- were exhausted after whatever they'd been through. "Because they look really cool..."

The artist was internally squealing- over the markings, at least. The thought of how Harmony may have gotten them,...not so much.

"Only if you wanna discuss what happened right now. Otherwise,...it can wait." He gave a light smile. "Buuuuuut,...wouldn't be the worst time for hot chocolate, if everyone's interested." That might've been (definitely was) a playful bribe.

When the teen finally was willing to part from the hug, the question left her confused. It took another moment for her to remember that she had a bit of a new look since returning from Starfall Islands. The wag on her tail may have been answered enough, but she shook her head and shifted an arm for Node to get a closer look at the marking.

"They dun hurt at all. 'S just like somebody dyed my fur, but it don't come off." She'd tried on the way home but gave up after a few minutes.

Looking from their daughter to the rest of the tired teens, Volt gestured to the living room. A pile of blankets and pillows had already settled on the floor as if the throuple had expected this exact thing when everyone returned.

"Why don't you and Node get everyone settled in, and I'll handle drinks? " Volt smiled, already making his way to the kitchen as the teens made their way to the living room. Tangle and Whisper taking their usual spot, with Buddy flopping down on a pillow.

The teen's eyes went from her parents to Buddy and back. As much as she wanted to sit with them, she also wanted to sit with him. A moment passed before she reached down and grabbed the red canine by the arm to drag him closer so she could lean against his chest and be beside her family.

It said something about the adventure when there was no sudden flush of red across Buddy's cheeks as he moved and even slipped an arm around Harmony's shoulder.

"I wish ya coulda been there, Pa. I got t' use the emeralds, and I even got t' go Super!"

[familylightfox]

@reflections-of-mobius asked:

"...I...think I've got a day setup?....I tried t'be careful about distance, since I don't know how well I'll be able t' teleport after..." Had it consumed a good chunk of their day, sorting it out?... A little, yes. Node had also taken care to look up everything they could do after- and it seemed they wouldn't be able to do much- not for two weeks after, anyway. But...they'd feel better about themself. "Seriously,...thank you, Funke." Node nuzzled Volt's arm. "...I'd probably have t'wait several months, if not for you n' Augustus..." "Chicken's nearly done....so, what's the time?" Bless glanced over from the oven. There was also a bloodied chicken breast on the counter- lightly seasoned, but not all that cooked. "...'bout two, in the afternoon. I'll head there probably at one,...or noon...or...earlier..." Node trailed off with a small grin. When given a time frame, Node tended to either forget entirely,...or arrive hours ahead of time.

"....you guys know me." A hand pressed to either's back, trying to pull the two close and give them both a side-hug. "...love you two..."

Volt had wondered where their partner had been for most of the day, but it had been answered enough when they returned to the living room that evening. Even Harmony had picked her head up from where she had been using her father as a pillow to smile. Of course, she'd been filled in on what was happening and had already made plans with her friends to tag along as moral support.

"I was plannin' on usin' my Warp Ring t' get us there and back. Long as Dad can give it a charge before we left." Emerald eyes glanced at the transformed hybrid and smiled when he nodded. As Node approached, she moved so he could also get in a good cuddle with them.

"Anytime... Liebe~" He licked their cheek and ran a hand through their bangs. The smell of the chicken on the counter had drawn his attention earlier, but now it was on his partners as they set up a plan for the day in question.

Some part of him wanted to tag along, but his current state probably wasn't the best idea to take out in public.

Another playful lick was given in affection as they hugged him, shifting to a gruff sounding laugh as Harmony proceeded to lift all three of them off the ground for a hug of her own.

[familylightfox]

@reflections-of-mobius asked:

Node had been more than a little off, the past few days. There were nervous glances here and there- their tail puffing up off and on as they tried to gather their thoughts. They were trying to sort out how best to approach Volt about what they'd been hoping for- and planning. But now that they were on the couch, eyes on the blank page before them, pencil having been unmoving ever since they sat down... "....ey, Volt?..." They could already feel their tail beginning to fluff up. They worried off and on, sure, but they were especially concerned when it came to loved ones- when it came to Volt. Bless. Harmony.- While the change would be what they wanted,...they couldn't help but fear it wouldn't be to the taste of either of their partners. They could chalk it up to anxiety,...but it was difficult to do when said anxiety was eating away at their logic, chipping at it. They could barely feel the pen in their hand, or the faint coarseness of the sketchbook. There was no way to tell how the other would react in advance- sure, they could probe and dance around the issue, but...this would affect their physical form. What if they were less desired, as a result?

"....how would you react,....if I told ya I was tryin' t'save up.." They could guess how their fur must've looked, given how hard and fast their heart was pounding. They were sure they were probably pale, unwilling to make eye contact- pencil still stuck on that first dot, the very start of the first line. "....for top surgery?..."

One perk of being in the state he had been in for the last few weeks, it was so much easier to pick up on the little details from his partners. Things they did that tipped him off that things weren't as they usually were. Node's body language was one of them and led to the transformed hybrid taking a seat next to them on the couch to offer his own brand of comfort.

At least this time, he didn't decide to take up the majority of their lap with his head and instead let them lean on him while they sketched. The deep rumble of his purr quieted as they spoke, and darkened eyes looked down with a smile. The arm resting over the couch's back came down as the hybrid used the back of his fingers to affectionately rub their cheek.

"Hmm?" A small sound to let them know he was listening.

It wasn't hard for him to see the signs of nervousness. Why, he couldn't quite understand, but as they started speaking... Slowly, the pieces began to come together.

"Love you." It really was that simple to him. He pulled them even closer to his chest and nuzzled the top of their head with his chin. Hopefully that would quell any of their fears on how he felt. Volt reached over to grab his handheld with his free hand.

There was something comical about how small it looked in his hand at the moment, but the tip of his thumb was used to open it and open up a browser he could search with. Soon enough, the handheld was held where his partner could see it. A list of some of the top surgeons in the Zone and their contact info.

"Ppp-ops can.. h-elp too. H-e knows mm-ost o' them."

[familylightfox]

@reflections-of-mobius asked:

Gentle music, drifting through the air as Bless sat at the edge of the garden. His eyes were closed, his nose just barely twitching as the glow from his chest grew a fraction brighter. He was trying to focus- to sense, not force. Each bit of plant life around him seemed to whisper and murmur- those tended in the garden were content, happy...those outside, wild and chaotic- but all nothing more than soft sensations, with the faintest prickles from the unkempt. A small bit of his energy was formed- exiting him, nonexistent to those who couldn't quite sense Chaos Energy, but nearly like a seed...lowering into the ground, pulsing slowly, nearly breathing to each lungful of his own air...

When he'd opened his eyes- there was a small deep-blue flower blooming before him- the edges of the petals tinged to a delicate sky. The roots gingerly removed themselves- roots of pure energy that had formed not a minute ago. The petals unfurled fully before the flower fell- caught by swift-handed gloves. A faint smile crossed his face. "...I did it..." And his eyes closed again- he wanted to make one for each of the people he cared about- so it would be a few minutes more before Bless would finally return to the inn's interior, three delicate flowers carefully held in one hand. "---Hey, guys?...grew ya somethin'." He smiled lightly. He was getting better...and what better way to practice, than to try to make gifts for his loved ones?

Volt wasn't sure what Bless had been doing that afternoon in the garden—at least, not at first. It wasn't until he began to feel the fluctuations of Chaos Energy that a curious look was given out the kitchen window. He'd only just started the dishes from his baking session, but the hedgehog's energy was enough to distract him from the task.

Thank Chaos that the pies were already done and cooling on the nearby table.

Harmony had been none the wiser to anything that was going on in the garden, but she'd also been on her tablet most of the day. As always, her eyes were on the video call with her friends, planning their next big adventure.

By the sound of it, it was a camping trip outside of Spagonia.

But emerald eyes lifted from the screen as the back door opened, and Bless joined them inside. Volt smiled and quickly kissed tan lips as his flower was passed into his hand. It felt so warm, buzzing with energy against his fingertips before being gently placed behind one ear.

"Thanks, love." Another kiss for good measure before the hedgehog could get away.

As Harmony reached out, she noted the flower's unique color. Within moments, she had the perfect place to put it in her room.

"'S beautiful Pa! Thank ya!" With arms wide, the teen hugged her pa and nuzzled his cheek before she disappeared into her room to place it in the woven strings of fairy lights above her bed.