#I want to get a set of these and customize them into Twinkle Eye ponies

[heckyeahponyscans]

Commercial for the 2023 Basic Fun Collector ponies

[ahorseofeverycolor]

It’s My Little Monday! With...The Beddy Bye Eye Ponies! Now here’s a...controversial group of babies. The BBE babies were Hasbro’s attempt to make blink eye dolls out of ponies. When you lay them down, the eyes go shut, as is the usual with this type of toy. However, somewhere between the design and the execution they.....didn’t go so well. So then why did the Twinkle Eye ponies succeed so well? Because the TEs didn’t have anything else about them changed, other than the eye being a gemstone. If you look at these you’ll see oddly long/stretched out necks, sparse hairlines, pinched looking faces, shabby sculpting for the pegasus wings, and the fact that the eyes are tiny with obvious rimmed sockets. (They are given makeup despite them being babies to soften the look of the upper ‘lid’ for the eye) So it isn’t that they have blink eyes, it’s everything else that went along with it that reduced their appeal and made them an unpopular gimmick set back in the day. It’s also what drives the prices of the “NBBE” (NON-beddy) versions of the characters up so high. The last photo shows nbbe Heart Throb next to her BBE version, and it’s easy to see why people will spend 100 or more to get her. Sadly, Baby Sundance and Baby Ribbon (like Baby Frosting) never got a regular version in the US or EU.  The eyes are the traditional doll-blink eye which means a hard plastic blue chip in a white metal setting. They had no other eye color than blue--and of course, the metal would rust when kids washed them too much making the whole eye bleary, reddish brown or fused open/shut. They do have eyelashes, but they are always black. There are pony-community services like ‘de-bbbe’ where you can hire someone to sculpt over the face, or eye-de-rusting for damaged ones.  “Creepy Dolls are Cool” Lots of critics say they’re creepy, (that is an opinion) but instead of creepy I just get kind of...poorly executed sad looking product from seeing these. I DO approve of freaky-fabulous dolls, creeperiffic Monster Highs, haunt-coture customs done with whatever dolls/ponies & etc., but those are works of art done by designers who care and want to make something spooky cool while the BBE is just ‘wow whoops’. 

[hauntedbythefanficsofmypast]

Blacklisted

"Blacklisted…" Marinette whispered her face blank as she stared at Chloe's worried face. "Adrien and Lila had Gabriel blacklist me." Tears gathered in the corners of her eyes as she choked back sobs, she covered her face with her hands. Chloe moved quickly pulling her shaking friend into her arms. "What am I going to do Chloe? Fashion was my future-and-and they ruined it for me. Four years of college all for nothing." Marinette sobbed into Chloe's shoulder as both girls sank to the ground.

"I don't know Marinette, I really don't know." Chloe said quietly she pulled back and pulled a handkerchief out of her bag. She brushed it across Marinette's cheeks wiping away the tears. "My mother confronted him and he refused to unblacklist you. It ended in a screaming match and mother declaring that Bourgeois would never associate with them again. Mother has been trying to counter the blacklist but Agreste has gotten too far already Mari." Marinette sniffled nodding as Tikki and Pollen flew over to their holders tentatively, the other Kwami remained near Pollen's little mansion.

"There is nothing that can be done? There has to be something!" Tikki said with anger clear in her voice. Marinette gave her a sad smile holding out her hand for Tikki to sit in it. Pollen landed in Chloe's open hand curling her arms around Chloe's thumb.

"No Tikki there is nothing we can do. We just have to move on." Marinette said they could all hear the anguish in her voice. She took a deep breath stopping herself from crying. "Plagg," she called softly , causing the Kwami to fly over. "normally I wouldn't allow this, but I think Gabriel has a streak of bad luck coming don't you?" Plagg was silent before her let out a loud cackle flying around Marinette's head.

"Oh kid, you're my favorite Ladybug for sure! What do you say Tikki, want to take away his creativity?" Tikki frowned part of her wanted to join in, but part of her pointed out that she should be the better person. "Come on Sugar Cube, I know you want to get payback for your chosen." Plagg said softly, smirking more when Tikki sighed and nodded. 

"But only once." She said looking at him with her own glare.

"It's funny," Audrey commented during dinner, she looked up with a smirk. "ever since Gabriel made the mistake of blacklisting you six months ago his designs have really dropped." She let out a laugh before taking a sip of her wine. "On top of that he has not only lost workers, but I heard there is a scandal going on with his son and the model of his!" Chloe snorted at that shaking her head, she took a bite of her steak. She glanced over at Marinette sending her a gentle smile, Marinette returned it before turning back to Audrey. "Mari dear, have you decided on what you want to do? I told you once I have absolutely no problem with you remaining here. On top of that I am more than willing to help you sell your designs under the acronym MDC like you've been doing with Jagged." Marinette glanced down at her food before looking up with a small smile.

"I am going to keep designing for Jagged and Clara. However I will not for others

, no, I have other plans now. Audrey you like my food, pastries, and weird drinks, yes?" Audrey glanced at Chloe in confusion before nodding.

"Yes I find it pretty amazing that you can make pastries from all over the world. Your apple pie is my favorite, although it is the reason that I have to work out so much." The comment caused the two young women to burst into soft laughter. "What does this have to do with anything?" Marinette smiled and placed her elbows on the table resting her chin on one hand. She smirked slightly thinking over her plan. 

"You see they derailed my dream just a bit, yes, but I have two loyal customers so I'm not completely stuck. I am not a one trick pony, I have a lot of talents." The mother and daughter were silent both confused, causing Marinette to laugh softly. "I was raised in a bakery, and my Great Uncle is a world renowned chef. I think a restaurant is in my future." Audrey smirked as she held her wine glass up.

"You see Mari, this is why you're one of my favorites, you never let anything keep you down. You'll have my backing and my husband's as well. With Chloe's help we are going to make your restaurant a hit." She shared a smile with her daughter knowing that Marinette's restaurant would be a hit when it opened. "Just one question Mari, what is the theme?" Marinette smirked looking over at Chloe with a twinkle in her eye.

"It's going to be subtlety themed around Paris's heros. Ladybug, Lynx(Felix), Viperion, Ryuko, Queen Bee and current Honeywell. Each hero will have their own signature dish. That is their personal favorite, Ladybug's is macaroons with her famous spotted design. Lynx's is Soupe à l'oignon, and so on. Desserts will be specially designed after their hero., While meals will be served on dishes resembling their costumes." 

“Well, you know you’ll have my full backing. Once you pick the perfect location I will have construction workers on the site, and once they’re done interior decorators to listen to your every input! On top of that I will make sure to talk up your restaurant to every business partner I have.” Audrey declared gently dabbing around her mouth with a napkin. She placed the napkin down before standing up; she made her way to Chloe grabbing her daughter's face and kissing her forehead gently, before doing the same to Marinette. “Now it is time for me to retire to bed. Don’t stay up too late girls!” She waved walking to the door nodding when Butler Jean opened the door for her. “Much appreciate Jean.” She gave him a rare smile, one which he returned with his own. Chloe and Marinette shared a look giggling softly together as Jean closed the door behind Audrey.

“Well, Dupain-Cheng, shall we retire as well?” Chloe said mimicking her mother’s voice. Marinette snorted covering her face with her napkins as Butler Jean gave Chloe a stern look struggling to hide his own smile.

“It’s beautiful.” Audrey said in awe taking in her once protegees restaurant. The outside of the store was simple yet elegant. Cream bricks with black accents, the two large windows were slightly tinted and had the name written in elegant cursive. ‘Miraculous’ The outside sitting area was gated off with a station for the host that provided shade on particularly hot days. It was divided into different sections, for certain Parisian heroes. Ladybug, Lynx, Viperion, Ryuko, and Honeywell. Each section was styled after their hero, Marinette and the interior designers had managed to make it so the colors didn’t clash. Instead they gave off a look of abstract beauty. In the middle of the outside area sat one table that had a sign stating it was permanently reserved for the original Queen Bee. The table made Chloe shine with happiness that only doubled once she realized that there was also a table inside reserved just for her. The inside was much the same except in the middle of the restaurant their was another table for Chloe. There was a window that took up much of the back wall, displaying the kitchen where ten chefs were divided in two, each learning their heroes menu together. There were two hallways on either side, the right had the bathrooms and the left had five private rooms. Each styled after their hero. "I must say, I was unsure that you'd be able to fit their colors together. However, you and the interior designers pulled it off flawlessly. May I see the menus?" Marinette smirked a twinkle in her eye as she held up five menus.

"Five menus for each hero. Which one would you like to see? The waiters and waitresses are instructed to request what hero's menu they would like to eat from. Each has eight different meals, five deserts, one specialty drink, and specialty salad, the only thing they have in common is drinks. side salads and soups. Two waiters and two chefs for each hero, more will be added if needed. The chefs have their own spaces together in the kitchen."  Marinette surveyed the restaurant, a smile taking over her face as she took in her finished product. Butler Jean walked up placing a hand on her shoulder, his gentle smile already present.

"If I may break character for just a second, I must say and I'm sure Mistress Bourgeois and Mistress Chloe agree, I am quite proud of you Miss Marinette. You've truly outdone yourself." Chloe nodded and came up hugging Marinette's arm smiling at her as Marinette started to tear up. The tears didn't fall until Audrey placed her hand on the back of Marinette's head, a rare smile on her face.

"Thank you for everything." She whispered softly, smiling brightly at them.

"Don't bemused, it's just the news! Nadja Chamack back again! Good afternoon Paris! New in Paris today, I'm sure you have all heard of the hit restaurant Miraculous that only opened a week ago! Well Paris, I have the inside scoop for you today! I was invited by the owner of the restaurant just last night! Now I am sure you are all wondering! Nadja, how did you get a direct invitation?! I was shocked too! Only to discover the owner of the restaurant was my goddaughter Marinette Dupain-Cheng! Marinette is twenty-three years old and now owns one of the most popular restaurants in Paris! Let me tell you! The restaurant is absolutely beautiful and styled after our heroes, you all know Ladybug is my personal favorite. So Marinette set up a private room for my daughter and me. She has five private rooms, all designated with a specific hero, so obviously my room was Ladybug's! I must say the restaurant is truly one of a kind! Marinette has out done herself, and its not just me saying that. Jagged Stone, Audrey Bourgeois, Clara Nightingale, and even some famous actors and musicians have all gone to Miraculous this past week. Each one had raving reviews, so much so that many celebrities and even some heroes are coming to Paris just to eat there. Pictures on Jagged's and Clara's Instagrams show them posing with a bright eyed Marinette, in one of the private rooms together! I think Paris agrees with me when I say this, congratulations Marinette, and I must say this to my goddaughter, I'm so proud of you Marinette. Now it’s time for sports-" Lila paused the tv glaring at is as she stared at the picture of Marinette between Jagged and Clara. She screamed throwing the remote at the wall, causing Adrien to tense up in their share kitchen. He sighed glaring down at his coffee only sparing a glance at the tv as he stirred. 

'When will she stop causing problems, I seriously thought she was more mature than this. But no she just has to keep thrusting herself into the spotlight knowing it'll piss Lila off.' He shook his head turning to watch his fiance finish her tantrum, as a smirk covered her face, a plan clearly forming. Only briefly did he wonder what the new lie was going to be this time. 'I am surprised she didn't just give up when we ruin her dream. Lila and father thought for sure that would break her.' He glanced down at his right hand where the ring use to rest anger growing in his chest. 'She deserves it, if she had just kept her mouth shut things would be different. No, she had to tell Ladybug everything when she discovered my identity. If it wasn't for her I'd still be Chat Noir, things would be different. I'd be with the love of my life and out of my father's control. This is all her fault, she deserves to be ruined.' Lila turned to him with a predatory smirk, her eyes glinting in the light as she walked up to him. She wrapped her arms around his neck leaning against him standing on her toes as she lifted one leg into the air. She bit her lip before kissing him and pulling back their lips barely touching as they stared into each others eyes. 

" We're going to get reservations at her crappy little restaurant, and we are going to destroy it and her name for good." Adrien smiled and placed his mug down wrapping his arms around her waist. He pulled her closer kissing her deeply before pulling back

"I'll have Nathalie set them up for us under my name. Now go get dressed, we have a photoshoot at 5." He let Lila go picking up his phone and texting Nathalie as Lila went to the shared room in their penthouse. He picked his coffee back up and starred at the picture of Marinette on the tv a smirk crossing his face. 

Two days later however they were all furious when the reservations were denied under all their names. They were only given reservations after using a fake name. When the day came they were dressed to impress and arrived in a limo. Lila smirked before letting her mask fall into place, as paparazzi turned to them and started taking pictures. She wrapped her arms around Adrien's arm giggling and waving at them until they reached the door only to be stopped by two guards and a hostess who was looking down at her book. "Name?"

"We are under Anthony Stewart." Adrien said smiling charmingly. The host ran her finger down the book till she came to the name. She nodded and looked up glancing at them before turning to the guards only to turn back surprised.

"I apologize we do have a Anthony Stewart down for reservations but you are not him." Adrien smiled nodding to her glancing at Lila. 

"Yes, you see my assistant set up the reservation for us under his name." The hostess gave them a tight smile before nodding politely. 

"Yes we do allow that to be done here. Unfortunately I am still not allowed to let you in." She said holding back a smirk at their shocked faces as the cameras began to take even more pictures.

"What do you mean you're not allowing us in?!" Lila said anger displayed clearly on her face.

"I'm truly sorry, here Maya let me take over while you take care of our other guests." Marinette said as she stepped out of the restaurant. She hair was pulled into an elegant up do, still wearing her signature black earrings. However she had a simple pairing of silver glasses on and was wearing a pink pencil skirt a white ruffled top and a black blazer. Her nails were a soft pink matching her toes as she wore black open toed heels. Both Adrien and Lila saw the glint in her eye even though she was smiling politely at them. "I really hoped you would all take the hint when reservations under your name were all rejected. You see I refuse to allow petty drama cause problems for my restaurant, and I'm afraid that you two bring drama with you where ever you go. However I can see my hint was not noticed so I'll tell you myself. Lila Rossi, Adrien Agreste, you two and your families are banned from setting foot into my restaurant. So sorry, but after you two repeatedly bullied me, spread lies about me and tried to ruin my future, I simply couldn't find it in myself to allow you in. Now please leave, your blocking other customers." Marinette turned and began to walk back into the restaurant until Adrien grabbed her arm dragging her back roughly.

"Now listen here Marinette!" He started until Marinette turned to him no fear in her eyes as she drew her free arm back and decked him. Adrien released her arm falling backwards holding his nose in pain, Marinette falling to the ground holding her arm gingerly.

"How dare you!?!" Lila snapped dropping down and wrapping her arms around Adrien's shoulders protectively, glaring at Marinette attempting to play the victims. "Thats it! We are sueing you for everything you have, I can't believe you just assaulted Adrien!" She smirked as she watched an officer get out of her car and advance on them. "Officer! Officer please arrest her! She just assaulted my fiance!" Lila cried out as tears began to fall. 

"I'm afraid I'll be taking Mr. Agreste into custody instead Miss Rossi. I was here the entire time and I watched him grab Miss Dupain-Cheng roughly. He assaulted her and she defended herself." Sabrina said staring down at the two as Lila looked up at her in shock. Another officer pulled up with his lights on and stepped out of the car. "Raincomprix, an ambulance is on the way to fix his nose before I take him in. Please make sure to get the photographers names, emails and numbers so that we can get pictures and possibly videos. Then take Miss Dupain-Cheng statement along with pictures of her and her arm, I'll take his pictures. After that get witness statements." Sabrina nodded before pulling out her notebook and walking over to the paparazzi. A few minutes later an ambulance pulled up and took care of Adrien before he was escorted to the back of the police car. Lila stood watching in shock, her mind running a mile a minute, she was quick to flee the scene once she realized pictures were still being taken.

The next day they were all over the news and everyone was on Marinette's side. Videos and pictures were all over social media and Gabriel's lawyers told him that there was no way they could save Adrien from being guilty unless they took a plea bargain. Adrien would admit his guilt and instead of jail time he had to pay Marinette a settlement and was given a restraining order to not come within fifty feet of her for five years. Gabriel's brand took a great hit and for a while Lila and Adrien couldn't step outside with out receiving glares or being refused business. Their reputations were dearly hurt and it didn't look like they'd ever be fixed. While Marinette was higher than ever everyone viewing her as a strong and amazing person after she didn't let his attack hold her back. This drove them crazy but they knew they couldn't do anything, Lila however decided that Hawkmoth just needed to target Marinette. Unluckily for them, it was that targeting that gave away Gabriel's identity to Ladybug and the Miraculous team.

A few months later it was breaking news when the Miraculous team brought in Gabriel, Natalie, and Lila and exposed them as Hawkmoth and Mayura, and that Lila was working with them. Adrien was spared after Ladybug revealed that he was Chat Noir. Everyone was ecstatic, parties were thrown and statues of the heros were placed in different parts of the city. It was shortly after that it was revealed that Gabriel blacklisted many people and allowed his designers to steal work in the hopes that they'd get others akumatized. Marinette was ecstatic that her name in fashion was cleared but she told the press she wasn't planning on going back into fashion. That only a few people would receive her designs, and they would only be those that Clara or Jagged recommended. It was a few months later that Gordon Ramsey visited her restaurant everyone was expecting Ramsey to find something to tear apart and were extremely surprised when he made a tweet praising Marinette's meals and her chefs talents. It actually spurred a friendship between the two and soon Gordon was added to the list of people that received her designs. After this everyone was going to Marinette's restaurant, they had reservations book 6 months out. Every day there is new pictures of celebrities at the restaurant Marinette was the new name in restaurants and cooking. She even agreed to star on some cooking shows. Her favorite guest spot was on Nailed it. The show was themed after heroes Jacques Torres made cupcakes specialized after America's heros, while Marinette made a five tier cake, each tier representing a different Parisian hero. Marinette lost it when she saw the cupcakes for Batman and Robin she couldn't stop laughing and immediately took pictures. Marinette and Jacques held multiple conversations in French, both struggling not to laugh as Nicole made faces at them. When Marinette pulled out the money gun she flicked her head done and a pair of Eiffel Tower shaped glasses covered her face. She looked at Nicole seriously and nodded before saying she was ready to complete the mission. This cause Nicole to burst into laughter.  After the winner was announced Marinette made another announcement, all three contestants and their family had an all expenses paid trip to Paris and a free meal at her restaurant Miraculous. It was shortly after that, that Marinette began to open more restaurants starting in each heroes city. Twenty-five percent of their earnings went to either the heros in question or a charity that they picked. Marinette's restaurants got popular quickly and soon she was named the youngest billionaire and only twenty-five years old. Everyone was shocked when majority of her money was put towards charity and thar she began different foundations to help others. She even began programs to pay for peoples schooling in university and colleges. Soon she was invited to charity events all over the world, from the Maria Stark Foundation to the Martha Wayne charity Gala. When she is twenty-six Marinette moves out of Audrey's penthouse and travels between different homes until settling down into a penthouse in New York. Audrey and Chloe both follow her over Audrey simply returning and establishing New York as her base of operations once again.

[ugly-crying-over-bucky-barnes]

Name on a Coffee Cup

Summary: Modern!Tommy has become quite the coffee addict after he stopped smoking. But he didn’t realize he had become a constant in one of the barista’s life. 

//Probably because I really miss my coffeeshop because of this quarantine. Thanks to @justanothershelby​ for helping me beta and finish this. 

         “’Morning, Tommy, the usual?”

         Tommy looked up from his wallet, thoroughly confused. The morning rush at the cafe was typical, even some of the faces in the line he recognized, the sounds of the espresso machines were intermixing with conversation as usual, everything was normal. But there was a slight change in the routine that Tommy took notice to. The moment he’d walked up to the counter, the barista greeted him by name. Sure, maybe it wasn’t so strange. He gave his name every time he ordered, but he figured the people who worked there wouldn’t remember every single person who came into the café.

         Then it hit him. Maybe he was a man of strict habit because he bought coffee from the same café every morning and sometimes got another one in the afternoon if he was having a particularly stressful day.

         But he could only blame Ada and Polly. It started with Ada reprimanding him for smoking so much. His own baby sister had suddenly taken it upon herself to lecture him about the dangers of smoking. As if he didn’t already know. He wasn’t an idiot he just wasn’t…confident about quitting. He wasn’t the type of person who enjoyed failing. And if he failed himself, it would just put him in a worse mood.

         Then Polly started sending him research about lung cancer and other dangers of smoking. She called him one night and asked ‘What would it do to Charlie if he had to come visit you in the hospital while you’re dying?’. Tommy didn’t appreciate his own son being used against him. But it worked.

         And with the help of his family, he managed to go off cigarettes for almost six months. It still wasn’t easy. He felt the urge to smoke every so often, not nearly as much as the first few months where he was basically tearing his hair out because he had no other stress reliever.

         Then he found he could be in a much better mood in the morning when he was sufficiently caffeinated. Thus, starting his routine of going to the café downstairs from his work.

         “Erm, yeah, please.” He nodded.

         The barista, Ava was the pretty brunette who Tommy saw often.  She could often be heard chatting amicably with coworkers or customers. She had a beautiful smile and even prettier eyes. And when their eyes met, Tommy felt a little lost for words.

         “Three-fifty-two.” She rang him up at the till. 

         For a moment, he didn’t register her words. He heard her speak but didn’t seem to pick up on the meaning. “Oh-right, sorry.” He mumbled and pulled out money.

 ~~~~~~~~~~

         That’s when he started to notice her as Ava had noticed him. Every day from then on, she greeted him by name. Sometimes she didn’t even ask whether his order was the same. Sometimes, she started his order when she saw him in line. That way his coffee would be out moments later. Sometimes they chatted if it was quiet enough. If he was reading the paper at one of the tables, she’d come around idly sweeping up or cleaning another table and strike up a conversation. She had an easy way of holding a conversation that made Tommy more relaxed around her. And that was no easy feat.

         On Valentine’s Day, she drew a heart on his paper cup. Tommy thought it was just something they were doing for the holiday, but he noticed no one else’s cup had any decorations. He left smiling that day.

         In April, the company was having a little ‘bring your child to work day’. Tommy was hesitant about the idea. He didn’t think bringing his toddler into the office was such a good idea. But Lizzie coaxed him into it. That morning, he walked hand in hand with Charlie to the café.

         “Let’s get daddy’s coffee, aye? You want something?” Tommy picked up his son so he could view the pastry case.

         Charlie’s eyes widened at the display of cakes and muffins and cookies. “Fin!” He jabbed a pudgy finger at the case.

         “Muffin? That one?” Tommy pointed out a double chocolate chip muffin that Charlie would most likely take a shine too.

         “Yeah!”

         “Alright, let’s go order then.” Tommy walked up to the till.

         “Morning, Tommy.” Ava smiled when she saw him carrying his son. “And who’s this?” She asked.

         “This is me son, Charlie. Charles, say hello.”

         The toddler giggled and shyly buried his face in the crook of Tommy’s neck.

         “Gonna get one of those chocolate muffins as well.” He added since it wasn’t his usual order.

         “Of course. Oh, he’s precious, Tommy. He’s got your eyes and everything.” She remarked with a coo.

         “Got his mother’s hair though.” Tommy chuckled.

         “Well, she’s so lucky to have such a cute little munchkin.” Ava rang up the order.

         “Oh well…” It was always a conflict within Tommy if a stranger or just an acquaintance brought up Grace. Did he correct them and tell them she was deceased? Or did he just let it slide and risk the chance of having them find out later? It was a tricky slope. “We lost her last year. But it’s nice that he looks a lot like her.” He cleared his throat and realized he was getting a bit too personal with her.

         “Oh, I’m so sorry to hear that,” Ava replied sincerely. “I can’t imagine it’s easy being a single parent.” She said as she went to the case to retrieve the muffin.

         Tommy dropped his change into the tip jar as he always did. “Well, it isn’t the easiest job in the world but it’s worth it, aye Charlie?”

         The little boy leaned his cheek on Tommy’s shoulder, a little bored with the conversation he didn’t understand.

         Ava beamed. “Of course it is.”

         “Do you have any kids?” Tommy had noticed in the past that she didn’t wear a wedding ring, but that didn’t mean she didn’t have kids or a relationship.

         “No, it’s just my dog and me.” She moved down the bar to start his coffee order. “Do you like dogs, Charlie?”

         “You like dogs, don’t you?” Tommy prompted his son to talk.

         “Ponies,” Charlie whispered shyly.

         “Yeah, that’s right, you like horses best. Just like dad.” He chuckled. “Sorry, he’s usually not this quiet.”

         “Oh, that’s okay.” Ava shrugged it off. “I was a pretty quiet kid too.”

         Tommy set Charlie down as they came to the end of the bar where they would pick up the coffee. The little boy came to the edge of the counter and stood on his tip-toes to see what Ava was doing. When she smiled at him, his face went red and he ducked.  

         “Here’s your muffin, Charlie.” Ava set the bag on the counter near his little fingers.

         “Thank you.” He said so softly it was lost in the ambience of the café. 

         “And here’s your coffee, Tommy.” 

         “Thank you.” He took it and made sure his son had a tight enough grip on the pastry bag. “See you tomorrow, Ava.” He tousled Charlie’s hair and led him back towards the door. 

         The next day, Tommy arrived at the cafe and Ava greeted him as usual. They exchanged pleasantries, Ava asking how Charlie liked going to work with his dad. Tommy explained that the young boy had spent the day drawing and pretending to make phone calls. 

         Before she handed him his regular order, she gave him a pastry bag. Confused, Tommy took it. “I didn’t order this.” 

        “No, I know.” Ava smiled and tucked a piece of hair back behind her ear. “I thought you might want to give it to Charlie. I mean it’ll be cold by the time you get home but if you stick it in the toaster it’ll be nice.” 

         “I didn’t pay for it though.” Tommy knew the amount he paid every morning by heart. She hadn’t added the muffin onto the bill. 

         “That’s okay.” She waved him off and went back to making his coffee. “It’s for Charlie.” 

         He smiled and nodded. “Well, he’ll appreciate it.” 

         The morning after, Tommy arrived again, a bit earlier so he could sit and enjoy his coffee in peace. 

         Ava was cleaning around the cafe so she didn’t take his order. But she did come to say hello once he sat down. 

         “‘Morning, Tommy.” 

         “Nice to see you.” He sat down and popped the lid off his coffee to let it cool down. “I should tell you, Charlie enjoyed the muffin. But I got a bit hungry on the way home so I ate half of it. He wasn’t happy when I arrived with just a half.” 

         Ava laughed. “Oh, poor boy. I’m sure he’ll forgive you.” 

         “Hopefully soon.” Tommy felt the stress of his morning start to slip away. He always got into a different state of mind when he was with Ava. It was almost like being with Grace again. She had the ability of taking him out of his reality and just letting him unwind even for the briefest of moments. He wasn’t sure he’d ever find someone else who could do that. “In the meantime, he drew you a picture as a thanks.” He reached into his briefcase to retrieve the piece of construction paper that Charlie had insisted he bring to Ava that very day. 

         She put down her cleaning cloth. “Really?” She took the paper with a delighted look. “Oh, that’s so sweet.” 

         “I can assure you, that’s the first of many heading your way. Kid loves to draw and once he gets to know you, he’ll draw for you. So I hope you’ve got room on your ‘fridge.”

         Ava laughed softly and examined the crayon work. “So that’s…” She turned it so he could see. 

       “Oh, yeah he’s a bit of an abstract artist. Erm...he explained it to me. I think that’s supposed to be you, the blobby purple bit. I wouldn’t take his depiction personally.” 

       She was beaming. “Oh, no, I adore it. I look forward to more.” She gently folded the paper and tucked it into the pocket of her apron. 

       Tommy realized he was staring a bit. But he couldn’t help himself. Ava was beautiful but she could light up a room with her smile. It was indulgent to watch her eyes twinkle with such genuine emotion. 

       Then she met his eyes and her cheeks went red. Tommy cleared his throat and averted his eyes just to be polite. “Tell him, thank you.” 

         “Of course.” He nodded. “Um...could I see you again?” 

         She tilted her head to the side a bit. “You see me every day.” She reminded him with a coy smile. 

         He chuckled. “No, could I see you outside of work?” 

         Her lips parted a bit in surprise. “I-uh-yeah...yes.” She nodded eagerly before she reminded herself to play it cool. “I’d like that.” 

         “Yeah?” He smiled. “So, coffee maybe...nope I’m sorry.” He winced and shook his head. “You’re around coffee all fucking day you don’t want to go out to coffee.” 

          “Lunch maybe.” She stifled a giggle. Never before had she seen the businessman so flustered. He seemed like the kind of guy who always remained calm and collected. 

         “Yeah, lunch.” He agreed. “Lunch would be good.” 

         “Lunch would be great.”

Permanent Tag: @papa-geralt-of-cirilla​ @giftofdreams​ @biba3434​ @kimmietea​ @karmezii​ @enrapturedbythemoon​

Masterlist 

[imreadydollparts]

I bought a batch of ponies on eBay and was terribly disappointed when they got here. They were a lot worse off than they looked in the listing.

I can tell you right now that I’m not keeping a lot of them and didn’t take proper before and after photos of them. I’m not all that interested in customs or restorations, just looking for pretty, colorful plastic things to decorate with, so they got cleaned up as well as I could and set aside. They’ll be available eventually.

Sweet Stuff was a part of that batch.

She has a chewed ear, cut hair (mane AND tail), some sort of color in her nose, mouth, and ears (I don’t know what it was but it did come off well enough), scratches, and was absolutely covered in glitter nail polish. It was in her hair, on her face, all over her body, all over the cutie mark... Everywhere. Someone wanted a glitter pony.

At first I had started trying to remove it with acetone and was wondering how I would get the polish off of the painted areas or would I have to leave it, then decided that since she was so baity anyway I’d do some experiments on her (and on other ponies in the lot).

We all know I have a weird love of L.A.’s Totally Awesome cleanser concentrate after discovering how effective it is at removing Mattel’s head glue with no to minimal damage to doll paint.

I took a dish, poured about a 1/4th inch deep layer into the bottom of it, and let Sweet Stuff soak on each side for about 30 minutes. Then scrubbed with a tooth brush.

This was the result. Bright, clean vinyl, no more glitter polish anywhere other than a little bit still in her mane which combed right out, all the hot pink color in her nose etc. came right off.

I don’t know if TA is safe for the iridescent coating on pristine twinkle eyes, so be cautious if you try it. The plastic eyes themselves came out fine.

Just to double check, I also soaked Cotton Candy’s hoof, which someone had put a dot of bright magenta nail polish on, in TA.

The nail polish dissolved easily, but did leave a little stain.

While I certainly could reroot/rehair Sweet Stuff, I don’t enjoy that and didn’t want to, so thought I’d see if I could make due with what she had. First I conditioned and straightened her mane and tail, then trimmed them.

Then I got out the microcrimper and gave her some texture. A little boil down for her mane, and now she looks like this.

I think it suits her and am happy that I was able to get her looking as nice as she does, despite her condition when she arrived.

[always-and-forever-a-killjoy]

Good morning again, I’m back on my bullshit (again) and this time I’m here to drop yet more fluff on you. Yes this is a Christmas time fic, yes it’s July, mind your own fucking business.

Anyways! Have some fucking FLUFF.

Title: There Are So Many Special Things About You

Wordcount: 1530

Summary: It's Fun Ghoul's first Christmas in the Zones, and xe ends up getting roped into way more decoration than xe would really like. But xe also ends up with something that used to feel impossible to find: a family.

Warnings: None, surprisingly!

Taglist: @wishiwasthemoon-tonight @sleevesareforlosers @stressed-depressed-emo-mess @tasteofamnesia (message me, send an ask, or reblog/reply to one of my posts if you want to be added or removed)

AO3 Link

(Actual fic under the cut)

Fun Ghoul didn’t know exactly why xe was at the radio station, but apparently the Fabulous Four’s presence was necessary that particular day. So Party Poison had bundled everyone into the Trans Am and sped through the desert (far too fast, of course, they never drove safely or sanely), and now they were all standing in the living room of Dr. Death Defying’s radio station, waiting for…something.

It turned out what they were waiting for was Dr. D himself, rolling into the room with a tired but fond smile as he addressed them. “Thanks for coming out on short notice- I really need someone to help Cherri with the decorating before he gets himself hurt. He loves Christmas, but I have to keep telling him ‘Cherri, you can’t just run around for days on end making the radio station fancy’. Not that he listens,” he added ruefully.

Ghoul mentally tried to add up the weeks and months since he had arrived at the desert, and concluded that it could reasonably be December or so. Xe didn’t think the killjoys would celebrate Christmas, but then again, most killjoys would take any opportunity for a celebration.

Meanwhile, Poison was shooting Dr. D one of their bright grins. “No problem, D. We’ve got Pepsi’s back, an’ I’m sure Pone will help.”

“Sure will,” Show Pony chirped as ey skated into the room, followed by Cherri Cola himself, who was looking rather ridiculous with his sleeves rolled up and the amount of hair already falling in his face. But he was smiling, brighter than what Ghoul thought was usual for him, and everyone seemed to take that as good enough.

“Hey guys!” He greeted them. “D said you came to help with the decoration, so I’m putting you to work of course.”

“‘Course you are,” Kobra Kid snorted.

Cola just laughed. “So we have these shitty plastic garlands, two strands of lights which mostly work, and an assorted lot of random ornaments. I’m thinking the garlands can go around the radio station, and then we’ll need something to put the rest on.”

“Oh no. Oh no, no, no,” Kobra said.

“So I’m getting us a massive tumbleweed!”

Pony cackled, and Ghoul almost started laughing xemself at the look on Kobra’s face. 

“Last time we got a tumbleweed, I nearly died!”

Poison let out their own cackle of laughter. “It wasn’t ‘nearly dying’, dearest brother, it was just you getting tangled in a massive tumbleweed. But if it makes you feel better, this year I’ll go with Pepsi to get the tumbleweed.”

Kobra sulked as Ghoul snickered and Cola grinned. “Thanks, Poison! If the rest of you could get those lights untangled and start hanging garlands, that would be great.”

“Pepsi likes me best now,” Poison declared and walked out the front door before anyone could protest that.

“For the record, I like you all equally,” Cola told them before heading outside after Party. “Wait up, you need me to actually drive the truck!”

Dr. Death Defying chuckled. “Well, I’ll leave you all to the decorating, I’ve got some other things to do. Thank you again for helping out Cherri, I know he appreciates it as well.”

Fun Ghoul ended up helping Kobra detangle and test the varying mismatched lights that Cherri owned, as Jet sat on the floor and patiently sorted ornaments. Pony skated around figuring out where to hang the garlands. Jet was humming under their breath, presumably some sort of Christmas tune, and Pony yowled along, but other than that the room was silent. Strangely so, given the usual loudness of most all killjoys, but no one seemed to feel like breaking the companionable silence. 

Well, that is, until NewsAGoGo showed up.

“What the fu- oh, Cola got out the decorations, didn’t he?”

“Uh. Yeah?” Ghoul offered.

“And let me guess, he took….” She scanned the room. “Party Poison to go get a massive tumbleweed that will fill half our living room and be covered in glitter by the time Pony is through with it.”

“Sure did, and it sure will,” Pony laughed.

“Fuck yeah. Anyways, what do y’all need help with?”

Ey gestured to Jet. “Jet’s sorting ornaments all on their own.”

“Great, scootch over.” She settled next to them as Pony kept skating around, and Kobra and Ghoul kept working on the lights.

Most of the lights ended up working, and Kobra was able to fix most of the ones that didn’t. Ghoul tried to pretend that xe wasn’t peering over his shoulder, curious about how some of the circuitry worked. Xe knew a fair bit about technology, enough to make a fairly passable bomb, but Kobra was just a bit better. Still, xe at least understood most of what he was doing, which seemed like a victory to xem. Jet, meanwhile, had moved on to helping Pony hang the garlands, much to eir delight. 

By the time most of the garlands were up and all the lights worked again, Poison and Cola were back, tromping through the door with a ridiculously large tumbleweed. 

“Merry Christmas, fuckers!” Party hollered. 

Newsie took that as a chance to shout “Merry Christmas yourself, bastard!” 

“I thought I said a small tumbleweed this year,” Dr. Death Defying sighed as he poked his head into the room again, ignoring Newsie and Party. 

“It was the only one I could find,” Cola defended.

“The only one. In the patch you call the ‘tumbleweed zone’. Which is utterly filled with them. And where I know for a fact you were going.”

“Mhm. Yep. The only one.”

“I love you, you Christmas-loving dork,” Dr. D sighed. 

“Love you too, D.” 

Cola and Party navigated the ‘tree’ to one corner, where, as soon as they set it down, Kobra, Jet, and Pony instantly descended on it with decorations. Ghoul glanced at Dr. Death Defying, who gave xem a warm smile and tilted his head at the tumbleweed as if to say ‘go on’. So Ghoul, alongside Party, picked up the remaining ornaments and started decorating.

Xe found that only a few of the ‘ornaments’ appeared to have been originally intended for that purpose, while most of the rest were scraps of paper painted in bright colors or shards of glass with wire wrapped around them to form a little holder. They looked lovely regardless, twinkling in the lights on the tumbleweed ‘tree’ as if they were always meant to be there. They had clearly been made by the careful (and not-so-careful) hands of many killjoys, and now were being placed by even more hands.

Even Dr. Death Defying had joined in on the decoration, although he mostly held back until most all had been placed. Then, he wheeled up, removed one of the brackets from his wrist, and hung it front and center on the tumbleweed. 

Ghoul glanced at the others in puzzlement as Cherri Cola stepped up and repeated the process, followed by Show Pony and then Newsie. Jet shot xem a smile, which was reassuring, but not all too informative. 

“Here, go on,” Cola said, nodding to the Fab Four as Newsie stepped back.

Poison gave a very dramatic gasp, grinning. “Really, Pepsi?” 

“Yes, really.”

“And your husband’s okay with it?”

“Yes, I am,” Dr. D said with a smile. 

Poison stepped up and hung one of their strands of beads on the tumbleweed as Ghoul glanced confusedly at the rest of xyr crew. 

“It’s an old Zones custom, for those who celebrate Christmas, anyways,” Jet told xem in a whisper as Kobra pulled a bracelet off his wrist. “Family members hang bad luck beads or other jewelry together as the last ornaments on a ‘tree’. So they essentially just invited us to be a part of their family.”

“Come on, Jet!” Poison was calling. 

Jet Star offered Ghoul another reassuring smile and approached the tumbleweed, pulling off one of their strands of beads and hanging it by Poison and Kobra’s. 

Finally, it was Ghoul’s turn, and xe felt weirdly nervous about such a small thing as xe fumbled with xyr bracelets. It took xem a moment, but he managed to retrieve the very first strand of bad luck beads xe had been given. 

The tumbleweed pricked Ghoul’s fingertip as xe lowered the bracelet onto the branch with shaking hands, right in the middle of the rest. Xyr hands still refused to hold steady, and he almost knocked off what xe thought was Cherri’s bracelet as xe added xyr own. 

Cherri gave xem his warm smile as xe fumbled to fix it, finally pulling back from the tree to see the rest’s reactions. 

Pony was the first to move, swooping in to plant a kiss on each of Ghoul’s cheeks as Poison grinned at xem.

“Welcome to the family, asshole.”

Ghoul flipped them off. “Love you too, asshole.”

Xe found xemself being completely lifted off the ground by Jet’s hug, and Kobra gave xem a brief nod that seemed to convey roughly the same sentiment as Newsie ruffled xyr hair. 

Dr. D just smiled fondly at them all and took Cherri’s hand. “Merry Christmas, you all.”

“Merry Christmas,” Cherri agreed softly.

“Merry Christmas, gay desert dads!”

[bts-trash-blog]

Sunflower:🌻AU

Summary: I'm a sunflower a little funny if I were a rose maybe you'd pick me.

Paring: Jin × Chubby Reader

Your eyes scrunch together as your laughter bubbles out pasted your lips. His giggle following after you mixing them together as his head rested onto your large pillow-like arm. His hands wrapped around you wide hips and stomach that was being held down by the pants you were wearing.

"Good lord Y/n." He laughs whipping under his crescent-shaped eyes that were caused by his large smile.

"What?" You giggle when you notice his eyes linger just a little longer then they should've on your face. A rose like a tint twinkled up your skin as he shrugged and rested his head back into your arm as he sighed.

"Nothing, you just know how to make me laugh." You smile at him as you reach your arm over and play with his soft locks of hair.

"Okay, I'm glad that I do."

🌻🌻🌻

Your eyes follow your fingers on the piano keys in the music shop you visit often. Your eyes move to the window the length of a wall there you see Jin his hands moving around as he spoke to some beautiful girl. Her hair was in a high pony and her body covered in shorts and a flowy crop top. Her smile sparkled in the sunlight as she placed a hand on her chest as she clearly laughed at one of his jokes.

A body pushed against your making you snap over to see Namjoom the owner of the shop, his dimpled smile made you smile in return as he nodded towards the keys. "Ready for your lesson?" Nodding he began to show you the different key combinations for Stay With Me. It made you smile when half why through his started jamming to different sets of keys singing horribly as he did making other customers laugh or awkwardly leave the shop.

"Joon!" You say pulling him down as he nudges against you once more when he saw a small shimmer of sadness hidden in you usually glee filled irises.

"What's wrong?" His question made you shake your head as look at him with a small smile lifted at the end of your lip.

"Isn't it funny you think there is something wrong?" You humm making him sigh as a bell indicated someone entering the shop. Turning you see his broad shoulders and two cups of most likely peppermint tea. Namjoon watched the saddened disintegrated away and turning into an adoring look as he watched the man he learned to be named Jin look around the shop. Once his eyes land on you Namjoon saw the same look reflecting back as he smiled.

"Y/n!" Jin says with a laugh as he rushed to the piano, his eyes catching the closeness you had next to your tutor. It made his lips twitch down slightly when he watched you turn to him and speak.

"Namjoon you remember my friend Jin." Namjoon smiled brightly at the taller man as he nodded. Jin stood there a ghost of a smile as he handed you tea making you smile as you took a sip. The feeling of the warm tea hitting your stomach and spreading through your body made you humm as Jin wrapped a hand around your shoulder.

"It's nice to see you again, Namjoon."

🌻🌻🌻🌻

"So how long have you loved him?" Namjoon questions at the front desk his eyes casting in Jin who was going through the vinyl. Your eyes bulged out as you almost knocked your tea onto the countertop.

"Kim Namjoon." You spit out quietly making him look to you with a knowing smile.

"What, he can't hear us Y/n...unless you want him to." He wiggled his eyebrows making you cup your forehead as you groaned and placed it onto the counter. "Awwww." He gushed making you sweat at him as you flip your head up and glare

"Shut up, and I don't like him."

"You're not denying that you love him." Your mouth fell open as you stare at him, your eyes cast to Jin the girl from before hanging on his arm. Her head leaning against him as she looks over the albums he was holding. Her smile was bright and he seemed brighter.

"Even if I did..he's a rose kind of a guy." Your words made Namjoon look back over, the girl making his eyes widen as he frowned and looked back over to you.

"And you're not a rose?"

"Nah..I'm more of a sunflower I guess."

🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻

"Why have you been ignoring me?" Jin asks walking up to you, your hand moving to clean up the sheet music. It had been two months of simple reply to text and avoiding phone calls. Not being to hang out due to work, and he had grown fed up. You had tried to step away from the boy who fell in love with a rose, nothing wrong with a rose. Just, it was hard for a thick-stemmed flower to be picked by someone like Jin.

"I haven't...I mean technically I have been but it wasn't planned." You say moving to the back to see Namjoon already putting up instruments he had to tune or fix for customers. "Need help Joon?"

"Y/n, don't ignore me!" Jin complained his hand running through his hair making you sigh as Namjoon patted you on the back and pushed you to him.

"Fine, icecream?" His eyes brightened up as he nodded and laced his hand with yours. As you left you to see Namjoon smiling brightly at you two as Jin swings your hands back and forth as you walked down the sidewalk.

"Triple chocolate fudge?" His question made you nod, as you two walked into the shop. You went to unlatch your hand from his, but he kept his grip. His thumb rubbed the back of your hand as you see the workers staring at you as he placed your order with his strawberry sherbert. His head leaned down and pressed a kiss to the crown of your head, making your breath catch as you felt his nose nuzzle into your hair.

"Here you go." The cashier said with a bright smile on his face as Jin paid and nodded.

"Thank you." You both say grabbing your icecream cups and walk out detaching as he holds the door open. His arm looping with yours as he shoves some of the cold creamy substance into his mouth making you laugh as his face scrunched in slight pain. His hand reaching up to rub his head as you take a small bite after bite.

"Now back to avoiding me." His statement made you sigh as your eyes cast to the night sky.

"I...I don't have an exact reason other then I'm not a rose." You shake your head at your stupid cheesy words.

"Not a rose? What the hell does the even mean?" His question made you sigh as you stopped and shoved the spoon into your ice cream that was slowly melting.

"I..I..god okay I like you." Your words caught him off guard as his eyes watched you cheeks become pink, he swears he felt his heart jump as you finally look up at him. "But I know I'm not exactly what you'd like. Like most people prefer a rose over a sunflower, I get it. So I just tried to get these feelings to the lesson before I got hurt more then I have before."

"I enjoy sunflowers more roses." Jin said started to walk again making your eye widen as you look over at his broad back. "Are you coming?"

"Wait? What?"

"Sunflowers are more than any other flower not only do they stand tall and strong they can feed me." He smiled brightly as you caught up. He took your cup of now melted icecream and threw them both into a nest trash bin. His arms wrapped around your waist as he stared down at you. His plump lips a little red from the cold icecream and his eyes were shining from the moonlight. "A rose can just give you thrones while a sunflower can give you seeds to plant and eat."

"That sounds weird." You giggle making him roll his eyes as he bends down and presses his lips to yours. They were soft and tasted like strawberries and were a bit chilling against yours. His hand moved to cup the side of your face as he pulled back, he had lightly nipped at your lower lip making it jut back as he nuzzled his nose against yours.

"And comparing yourself to a flower up against a totally different flower also sounds strange." He whispered making you blush as you hand tighten around his jacket he was wearing.

"Shut up."

"And kiss you." He whispered pulled you face up a bit as he leans back down and moves his lips again. Ths feeling of the two flavors mix made you smile as your hand moved to the nape of his neck. Soon he was trailing his tongue across your lips making you smile as you let his tongue slips into your mouth. Your fighting against his as he smiles lightly and pulls away making you smile up at him as one of your hands moves to grip his wrist. Soon he was pecking your lips once, twice. His smile growing as you push your face against his chest and nuzzle into his shirt. "Even then, you can be my sunflower if you want to be." 

[thespian80]

Tender Gardens (preview of an age play fantasy fiction in progress)

Mysti finds herself, for several weeks, having trouble sleeping at night; she isn't certain, if her difficulty sleeping, is simply nervous excitement for her upcoming 21st birthday, or the mere fact that she has been trying very hard, to get things done in a very short time, for that very birthday celebration, subsequently, causing her to be too anxious to sleep soundly; As she lays in bed, for what feels like an eternity -yet has, truth be told, only been fifteen minutes- she sees a strange twinkling light above her, and hears a faint music, from, where, outside? -She couldn't tell where the sound was coming from, but did, finally find herself sleeping soon after; well, honestly, she, found herself, in dreamland, the twinkling light, however, found her, asleep... Two weeks after her restless night, Mysti was preparing in the kitchen, making cakes and cookies -for her party was coming up in a few hours, and she wanted to have plenty of treats for her guests to eat; -her Father, Samuel, had been realistic in this matter: that it, being Mysti's birthday, she should be the one being pampered, not doing the pampering, but, she was never one, personally, to delve into what she perceived, as a selfishness, and wanted to be certain her friends could enjoy themselves; this added to her beauty, and her Father knew it, but that, was mere proof, that she deserved to be the one on the receiving end of being doted upon. After some kitchen preperations, Mysti had been back upstairs, getting ready for her party, when her Father came to retrieve her, for the arrival of her first friend; when he came to her room, he was both displeased and amused, by seeing that Mysti had fallen asleep at her vanity desk, and was slobbering, as usual, all over her notebook. Mysti's Father put his hand on her shoulder and shook her softly, and she slowly opened her eyes; she woke startled, and pouted "I didn't mean to fall asleep, I really didn't- I have too much to do before people start arriving" her Father merely smiled and chuckled, and pointed to her window. Mysti turned her gaze towards his pointing, and widened her eyes and ran to her window; what she saw out of it made her shake her head in amusement - it had been snowing outside, the trees covered in white, and there were obvious horse hoof tracks, coming up the lane to the house, that had been freshly made; she followed them with her eyes and found they were from her friend's horse, where she saw, her friend was now walking towards the front door. Mysti ran to her dresser and got out a glimmering, short pink skirt, as her Father smiled and left the room, leaving Mysti to finish quickly. Mysti put the skirt on in a rush, put on a soft purple top, soft in color, soft in feel, and quickly brushed her hair, put her soft brown hair into two pony tails, and tied them with little blue ribbons. She gave herself a quick look in the mirror, felt pleased enough with the look, and went downstairs and greeted her first guest in the den. Mysti's friend, Lisha, was sitting patiently, hands sitting in her lap, holding a small gift box between her knees. Mysti's smile widened as she came towards her friend with hands outstretched "ahh is that for me?" Lisha merely smiled and gave Mysti a small smack on the hand "ah ah, not yet" as she pulled Mysti onto her lap, sat her on her knee with her hands around Mysti's waist, and gave her a soft kiss on the cheek "here you go, Mysti" and gave her the box "don't open it until later okay?" Mysti smiled and nodded "okay." Lisha gave her another kiss on the cheek and stood Mysti, as she stood up and they both walked towards the door to the dining hall "So, Mysti, who all is coming to the party tonight? " Mysti thought for a moment "Well, there is, of course, you, and there is also Ade, Evia, and Christopher, and there is, of course, my Father, and my cousin, Segrin." Lisha smiled "oh aw, I love Evia and Ade, they are so adorable, how old are they now, 18, 19? " Mysti smiled "They are 19 now, as of, I believe, the 8th of last month" Lisha nodded "oh, I guess that does sound about right" and then the doorbell rang, and through the frosted window on the door, could be seen, the silhouettes of twins Evia and Ade, and both Mysti and Lisha went towards the door to answer; Lisha approached the door first, and smiled at Mysti in question, Mysti nodded, and Lisha opened the door; there stood Ade and Evia, the young twin siblings, both bright blue eyes, long brown hair, fair soft skin, neatly dressed in formal Eaythaen Elvish attire, and smiling. Lisha burst into a squee and hoisted Evia up into her arms --Both Ade and Evia, and all that knew Lisha, were accustomed to her affectionate dominant nature, and not many could shy away from her, or wanted to-- Lisha squeezed Evia and sat her on her hip, giving her a soft kiss on the forehead "oh you are as sweet as I remember, darling. How have you been these last few months since I saw you?" Evia smiled and blushed, and put her head on Lisha's shoulder "I have been great, though the journey was long and I am rather tired" Lisha smiled and stroked Evia's head lightly, rocking her "then rest a while dear, I will wake you when all else have arrived" Evia happily obliged and was soon asleep in Lisha's arms, as Lisha turned her attention to Ade "And how have you been Adelvion? " Ade swallowed sharply- it was no secret that he admired Lisha heavily, and she addressed him with his full name, as usually accustomed for paternal figures- this did not embarrass him, but drew him to her deeper "I am quite rested and pleased to be in your company once again, Miss Lisha" Lisha smiled "that's quite well, I am pleased to see you again as well, sweetie- but please do tell, how is it, that you are quite rested, but your dear sister is exhausted? " Ade smiled wryly and gave a soft chuckle "We traveled upon Evia's horse, Grace, and while Evia sat in front, doing all the work, I slept peacefully behind her, the entire way" Lisha gave a few soft clicks of her tongue in disapproval, and gave Ade a soft slap on the butt "you should have been more generous, gentlemanly, and shared the burdens of travel" Ade blushed, and nodded in agreement "Yes, as I had requested to do so, I assure you- but Evia insisted on doing it all herself, admittedly, in hopes that being tiresome, you would provide arms to rest in, and she was also insistent upon my being fully awake once we got here-- she didn't want to share in being held" Lisha smiled "aww, the tricky little princess-- she will be duly scolded once she awakes, but she did in fact do legitimate work to obtain such a thing" Lisha rubbed Evia's back softly and gave her a few soft pats on the tush. Ade stood forward a little "And, also, I must add, it was also in order for me to do my duty upon arrival--" Ade put his right hand out, which, was now apparent, was gloved formally in white parcel gloves, as is custom for their kingdom, and handed Mysti a green wax sealed, letter Ade bowed at Mysti, and became very formal "My dear Lady Mystiline, I was requested that you were delivered this message, but that you were to open it upon receiving an accompanying gift, given you by your Father, and no sooner- that the accompanying letter would be a spoiler of surprises yet to come, please follow the request" Mysti shook her head confused "Well, I must ask, respectfully, why give it to me now, when I have not yet to receive the accompanying gift, also, that you have called me by my full name, as I have never heard you do so before?" Ade nodded "I was told that you may ask such a question- you are given the letter, in a hopes that once receiving the gift, the gift would not be as such a shock-- that once seeing, you would then understand whom both were gifted by-- as for my addressing you in a manner, I was also advised to do so" Mysti turned and looked and looked behind her, smiling in question at her Father. Mysti's Father merely smiled and gave a short nod. Mysti turned back to Ade and took the letter from his hand. Ade suddenly looked relieved, as if releasing a huge burden, and stretched. Lisha gave Ade a look "ohhh, ha ha, Adelvion, you couldn't be tired by such a small task-- nice try, it isn't yet your turn to be held" Ade blushed and shook his head "No no... I wasn't implying such a thing- I know better- I am simply relieved to have it done, and my arms were somewhat tired from holding to Evia's waist tightly on the travel here- she was going way too fast for my taste, and though I did mostly rest, I was nervous, nonetheless" Lisha stroked his cheek with her left hand "aww, poor baby" Ade knew it was mock comfort, but he took it gladly, and smiled "Well, if you don't mind, I wish to find some brew, and possibly a small snack of sorts" Mysti smiled "follow me, I have cakes and ales of assorted kinds, freshly made" Mysti led the way, but Lisha insisted on taking Ade by the hand and leading him "come along, sweetie, I saved you a seat by me and your sister" Lisha pulled out a chair and directed Ade to sit, and pulled a chair bedside him, and sat down with Evia still sound asleep in her arms. Lisha stroked Evia's head and rocked her gently "she really was tired, wasn't she? The little stinker" Ade grinned widely at the platters before him- cakes of various kinds, velvet and chocolate, vanilla and caramel, with assorted cookies as well, set bedside various carafes of assorted brews. As Evia sat asleep in Lisha's lap, she had a serene, peaceful look upon her face, the sounds of the soft chatter around her, the smells of the cakes and cookies softly seeping their way into her nostrils, her eyes slowly moving left and right under her eyelids, a soft dream coasting through her mind, of a soft gurgling stream, with a small wooden boat gently drifting in the waters; the rocks beneath the stream barely touching the bottom of the boat, a harmless scraping against its tough bottom, the boat drifting by a small island with a beautiful green tree with bright red orbs like that of juicy red apples hanging upon its limbs. Sat within the boat was a peacefully sleeping Evia, softly waking and eyeing her surroundings-- there within the bright green tree, with its brightly glowing red orbs, sat a gentle Raven, whom, upon seeing Evia, gave a low caw, and tapped the tree softly with its beak, a bright orb fell, rolling upon the ground, landing within the boat; Evia eyed the orb, cautiously touched it, a small joyous wave of emotional electricity ran through her fingers, and she picked it up softly; there within the orb, she could see, what appeared to be, a soft glowing vapor within, with characteristics of liquid, moving in all directions, the color of the vapor itself changing softly, many times, as she eyed it in wonder. The Raven within the tree cawed, and she could hear his words within the soft sound "take care of your evermoving emotions within you, that you should bear the fruits of compassion" Evia smiled, and nodded in understanding. In the waking world, Lisha smiled as Evia still sat with her arms asleep, and stroked Evia's head softly, and Evia began to yawn and slowly opened her eyes, as a light tapping on the door could be heard. Evia smiled and looked in the direction of the tapping, "Christopher? I am sure of it" Mysti, stood up and made her way to the door, where, through the beautiful frosted glass, appeared to be a silhouette of a man in a long flowing robe, standing patiently outside the door. Mysti made her way to the door, opened it, and curiously, saw a small squirrel scratching itself, on the doorstep- Mysti giggled, "what a cute widdle nutty fellow... but a sunny day gives you away, Christopher" the squirrel stopped, stared and chattered irritated, then, POOF, in a cloud of dust, stood Christopher James, laughing "happy birthday, Mysti, I thought maybe I would have you believing, that someone had left you a pet as present." Mysti giggled again "well, that may have worked, had I not seen your shadow behind the squirrel hahahaha" Christopher palmed himself in the face "well, I forget that you seldom miss such things. I shall try better next time" Christopher bowed, and Mysti waved him inside. As Christopher made his way in through the foyer, Evia and Ade seemed to liven up very quickly, and both stood smiling widely as Evia then bounded into the foyer toward him "Christopher!" She jumped enthusiastically, and landed right in front of him and gave him a big hug, as Christopher smiled and laughed "it's not like you haven't seen me just yesterday. How have you both been getting along since your time here?' Evia smiled "Well, we haven't been here but for a few minutes or so, before you yourself arrived" Christopher looked bewildered and confused "but, you left yesterday morn.." Evia cut him short, with a shushing finger to his lips, "we'll talk more about it, follow me" and Evia led Christopher into a den off to the side of the foyer. Mysti laughed and shook her head 'as always those two and their private meetings of who-knows-what about' she thought, giggling, and made her way back to the dining hall, and Ade smiled "where have Evia and Christopher gone to now?" Mysti laughed "you know those little meetings you three always have- Well, Evia, after mention of the trip, led Christopher away to the den by the foyer" once Mysti said 'trip' Ade's eyes widened, and after saying 'foyer', he'd gotten up from his chair, and had ran towards the same aformentioned room. Mysti laughed and sat down at the dining table "well, there goes three guests, having their own private time, rather than sitting here, giving me people to dote upon. Lysha smiled, and patted her knee "come here, you" Mysti smiled and came and sat upon Lysha's lap, and Lysha wrapped her left arm around Mysti's waist, and her right arm around her chest, and kisses her on the cheek "it's all about you, hon, I know it. You know them, they always have ideas, and they are always so secret about it" At that moment, Christopher poked his head into the dining hall, and gave Mysti's Father, who'd been busy bringing treats and drinks back and forth, and was now reading, a small cough to get his attention, and a smile and wave once he'd looked up; Mysti's Father stood up, immediately, and followed Christopher into the den. Mysti giggled and shook her head "there goes another one, hahahaha" Lysha smiled and patted Mysti's tummy "well, you've still got me, hon, I've no need to go running to some hush hush secret meeting. I am right where I am comfy and happy" she gave Mysti a squeeze and gently placed Mysti's head against her bosom. Mysti rested peacefully in Lysha's arms for several minutes, when Mysti's Father returned, a smile and tear streaming down his cheek, and Mysti laughed "well, now they're going to call you to meet them as well, now, I suppose, Lysha." Christopher came into the room at that moment, and laughed "nah, no need. Both of you, Follow, if you please. Won't hurt, I promise hahahaha" Lysha stood up, set Mysti down, and they followed, where, Christopher lead them outside, where a beautiful, almost glimmering white horse stood, and Christopher nodded "now would be the time, to read that letter that you'd received, young Mystilline" With a smile on her face, Myst opened the letter, and read "On this birthday, my darling daughter, I give you, one of my most beloved gifts, this beautiful horse, glimmering Bow. She is intelligent, swift, and Loyal, Bow Loyal she is called, and Loyal she shall always be. It is with this gift, that I ask your forgiveness, for the time that I'd been missing in your life, for it is a difficult circumstance that kept us apart; upon your arrival, if you shall honor me with your precious presence, I will do my very best to explain, in person, the reasons why. Please show no anger towards your Father in this matter- he had no choice, but for that of your safety and happiness - he is blameless- save any anger you may feel, for me alone, for I alone, am to blame. Though it would be hard to understand, I do love you, my little Mystilline. Tender Sincerity, Mommy" Mysti, with tears streaming down her face, ran to her Father, and gave him a hug "is it true, Daddy? Is Mommy still alive? Is this horse, really a gift from her?" Mysti's Father nodded and kissed Mysti's forehead, and gave her a soft squeezed hug. Mysti shook her head and took a step back, and put her hand to her mouth in disbelief "all this time, I thought she was dead, but now to find, Mommy has been alive, all these years" Lisha came to stand beside Myst, and took her hand in hers, and wrapped her arm around her waist "I will accompany you on your journey to her, if you do so choose to see her" Mysti nodded lightly, "you may, of course " Lisha smiled and clicked her tongue, and gave Mysti's tush a light pat "oh, I wasn't asking, sweetheart. Had you said no, I'd have reminded you, who's been playing your mommy in your Mommy's absence, and I won't allow you to travel alone" Mysti smiled and blushed, and walked towards her new horse, Bow Loyal. Upon her approach, Bow Loyal tapped the ground softly, and Mysti could feel as though the horse was somehow speaking to her, telling her to get on her back. Mysti stroked Bow's neck, and Bow lowered her face to Mysti's face, and Mysti felt like she was meeting an old friend "you're so pretty, Bow Loyal " Bow tapped the ground again with both front hooves, and rubbed her face against Mysti's. Mysti swore she heard somewhere within her mind, Bow Loyal saying "I missed you" with tears she couldn't explain, streaming down her face, Mysti spoke a nickname she didn't know how she knew "BoLo.." with the name spoken, Bow Loyal shook and tapped in excitement "you remember me, you remember me! I love baby princess Mysti! " with a look of excited confusion, Myst stepped back "did... did anyone else hear?..." they only stood and watched, smiling, and Lisha answered "I know. It will take some getting used to, but, the place where Bow is from, where YOU are from, a bond between you is easily returned, and with that bond, comes communication; Again, I know, it takes getting used to, but you will." Mysti smiled in bewilderment, and Lysha stroked Mysti's soft brown hair "This journey will be long, and it will be difficult, but you will not be alone - I will care for you, every step of the way" Mysti smiled, and gave a soft giggle "I know I will be fine, certainly, Lysha. I will not worry at all, once we are ready and on our way" Lysha smiled and gave Mysti a soft pat on her tush "yes, but there are difficulties to which you are still unaware, but all in good time, you shall be in comfortable understanding of your situation" as Mysti looked confused about Lysha's strange wording, Lysha was fully aware of her confusion "as I said, all in good time, princess, you will understand " Lysha gave Mysti another pat on the tush, and lifted her up onto Bow Loyal. Mysti smiled, and laid her head against BoLo's neck "oh, you're so soft and fluffy" Bow Loyal gave a soft tap with her right front hoof in joy "oh baby princess, I will get you both home safely, I know every way home by heart" Mysti giggled "oh you're so sweet and silly BoLo" Lysha hopped onto Bow Loyal behind Mysti, and gently laid Mysti back against her, and with one hand on the reins, and one hand upon Mysti's tummy, Bow Loyal began slowly trotting forward, and Mysti laughed gently "well, we can't be heading out just yet, we haven't even packed or.." Lysha cut off what Mysti was saying, with a gentle rub of Mysti's tummy, and a soft lulling "shhhh.. there are things about the journey, that it would be best you are somewhat aware of now, if you please, hon. I will tell you of them as we have a little ride around the property here" Mysti nodded "okay Lyshie.." Mysti laughed and shook her head "I don't know why I called you that" Lysha smiled and nodded "mmhmm. See, this is one of things that I must explain. Things are already taking a small effect, because Bow Loyal is from your Mother's realm, and though you are, in a sort, also from that realm, being that your Father is fully human, you're also from this realm" Mysti turned her head to the side, a bit confused "wait, so my Mother, is she not human?" Lysha rubbed Mysti's tummy gently "no, honey, your Mommy is a Fairy, and I yes, I see that look on your little face, I'm not joking. Because you are both Fairy and Human, the effects of your Fairy realm will be something that will take you time to get accustomed to- you will have physical and psychological changes, but I will be there to care for you- I will not be your comfort in your times of need. Do you trust me fully for this task, hon? Do you consent to the travel, and all the challenges it may bring?" Mysti nodded "yes, I do consent. I trust you fully" Lysha smiled "that's good, hon, now lay back and rest a while, and I will get used to holding you close while riding" Mysti smiled and obeyed, put her head back, and to her surprise, but not to Lysha's, she quickly fell asleep. Mysti began dreaming, of a soft glowing light all around her, gentle voices she could not understand, and a young Fairy boy hovering over her "hi there little princess, aww, you're smiling at me, aren't you adorable" Mysti woke from her dream, smiling, and Lysha rubbed her tummy "did you have a nice rest, little one, did you have a nice dream?" Mysti smiled and nodded "yes. Nice dream" Lysha grinned "Yes. I thought so. That's good. I am sure you will have more just like it, as the journey goes on. We're coming back around to the front of your Father's house now, we'll want to get inside to enjoy the rest of your party before we get ready for the journey ahead" Lysha hopped down from the horse, and gently lifted Mysti and held her in her arms as they sat down for a minute outside the door. Mysti rested her head on Lysha's shoulder and smiled "your shoulder so soft Lyshie" Lysha smiled and laughed "not any softer than it's ever been before, hon. You may need a good nap once our trip has started- you called me Lyshie again, which is adorable, but right now, might be from your difficulty sleeping the last few weeks" Mysti gave a look of surprise "how did you know about that? I haven't told anyone about that" Lysha smiled "Oh, I was nearby and saw you tossing and turning, and brought a lullaby music box to get you to sleep" Mysti looked shocked "you, did what? Wow, so that music was you?" Lysha laughed "yes, that was me, I knew you would be having trouble, so I came by with the appropriate solution." Mysti merely shook her head confused, as Lysha stood up, and they headed inside, where Christopher, Ade, and Evia, appeared to be a bit silly from too much punch, and Evia came giggling "hey! Look at you two cuties! Get your butts in here! It's not a real birthday party without the birthday girl!" Evia led them into the dining room, where Christopher and Ade were sitting and munching on cookies, while Mysti's Father stood stirring the punch. Lysha sat Mysti down, gave her a pat on the tush "go have fun, hon. This is your birthday party " and made her way towards Mysti's father "Samuel, it will be my honor to get the little princess to her Mommy. I will also have Evia and Ade following closely in case we have any unforseen occurences along the way. I wouldn't mind having a satchel full of your delicious small cakes with me on the journey, I will also need several empty nursing bottles as well" Samuel nodded knowingly, and headed towards the kitchen. Lysha walked over and sat down by Mysti, whom was enjoying a huge cup of punch. Lysha smiled and put a hand up by Mysti's cup "slow down, hon, we'll regret it later if you drink too much, too fast, just before our long journey ahead" Mysti put the cup down "right. We don't want to have to make frequent stops to relieve ourselves" Lysha only grinned "we'll have to be sure we have plenty of cakes for our journey, there are also other Little details that will need attention for the journey as well" Mysti began to wonder what details other than food would be needed, ready to question Lysha, as a knock came on the door "Oh, cousin Segrin, that must be him, but.." she stopped and thought for a moment "He's my cousin from my Mother's side, wouldn't that make him a..?" Lysha nodded "Yes, that makes him a Fairy" Mysti laughed and ran to the door and opened it quickly "Segrin! Get your butt in here! It's been such a long time, and you need to explain a few things, please" Segrin, a young man with long, black hair, glasses, and medium build, walked into the foyer, with a large pack over his shoulder "well, certainly, yes- I am aware your Mom is alive, and yes, I am a Fairy" Mysti laughed "bit, you've never looked like a Fairy, I've never seen you a small chibi, with wings and tunic, and as far as Mommy being alive, I figure I'll ask her about that once I see her" Segrin smiled and took the pack from around his shoulder and held it out "well, you may find answers sooner" Mysti started to grab the pack, and Segrin stopped her "no, that's for Lysha, if you saw the contents now, you'd only be confused" Lysha came over and took the pack from Segrin, and opened it up and took a glance inside "oh those look great, I am sure we'll be in need of more soon" Lysha eyed Mysti sternly momentarily, and Mysti scoffed "what.. I haven't touched the pack, he's immediately handed it to you" Lysha shook her head and smiled "oh my, hon, you've no idea. Well, your love for punch will have you soon finding out"