FA+
Shop
SS: Festival of Return pt3
General | Posted 4 years ago“DADDY!” Candy cheered.
“MAMA! PAPA!” Tange exclaimed
In an instant, the pair of girls were at the front of the stage, diving over its edge and into the arms of their fathers.
“Daddy, I’m so glad you’re here!” Candy sang. “Oh, but where are Chase and Cainan and everyone else?” she inquired, looking about the area in a vague attempt to search the missing persons out.
“Your brothers will be here, soon.” her father, Angel, promised. “You know them. When it’s a day where they don’t have to see themselves to work, it’s nearly impossible to pry them from bed. But, I had a surefire way to get them up before I left.”
The young girl chuckled as she surmised, “You made breakfast, didn’t you?"
An amused laugh escaped him as he replied, “Exactly.”
“MAMA! PAPA!” Tange exclaimed
In an instant, the pair of girls were at the front of the stage, diving over its edge and into the arms of their fathers.
“Daddy, I’m so glad you’re here!” Candy sang. “Oh, but where are Chase and Cainan and everyone else?” she inquired, looking about the area in a vague attempt to search the missing persons out.
“Your brothers will be here, soon.” her father, Angel, promised. “You know them. When it’s a day where they don’t have to see themselves to work, it’s nearly impossible to pry them from bed. But, I had a surefire way to get them up before I left.”
The young girl chuckled as she surmised, “You made breakfast, didn’t you?"
An amused laugh escaped him as he replied, “Exactly.”
✧ PREVIOUS PAGE ✧ FIRST PAGE ✧NEXT PAGE✧SS: Festival of Return pt2
General | Posted 4 years ago“Oh, Mint, Meelah is a genius!” Tange sang. “These outfits she made for us are gorgeous!” she added, spinning about in a flowing azure gown tailored specifically to her form.
“They’re very nice and not too frilly, too!” Candy agreed, adjusting the top on her crimson bustier pant ensemble. “I feel more like a girl, but I still feel like me, too.”
“Candy, you are a girl.” Tange pointed out.
“Yeah, but I’m not a girly girl.” she clarified.
“Either way, you look amazing. The shape and color really suit you. Somehow…you look even more like your mother right now.”
A small gasped left the young tomboy at the mention of her resemblance to her mother who had long since passed. She never had the chance to know the woman who had given her life and only knew of her now through the passage of shared memories amongst her father and brothers and from the many pictures of the deceased beauty that adorned the home she shared with them. From the photographs within the house, she could plainly see that she shared her mother’s features, most notably her pink coat and hair, but in grace and form, she was nothing like the elegant creature she saw staring back at her from the captured expanse of a photograph. To be told that in the moment, she looked even more like her, was nothing short of an honor.
“Thank you.” Candy all but whispered. “That…really means a lot to me.”
“I know it does.” Tange replied, gently as she cleared the distance between them. “Because, you’re my best friend.” she added, pressing her head against the other’s, affectionately.
“And we couldn’t be happier that you two found each other.” a voice said from below the stage.
“They’re very nice and not too frilly, too!” Candy agreed, adjusting the top on her crimson bustier pant ensemble. “I feel more like a girl, but I still feel like me, too.”
“Candy, you are a girl.” Tange pointed out.
“Yeah, but I’m not a girly girl.” she clarified.
“Either way, you look amazing. The shape and color really suit you. Somehow…you look even more like your mother right now.”
A small gasped left the young tomboy at the mention of her resemblance to her mother who had long since passed. She never had the chance to know the woman who had given her life and only knew of her now through the passage of shared memories amongst her father and brothers and from the many pictures of the deceased beauty that adorned the home she shared with them. From the photographs within the house, she could plainly see that she shared her mother’s features, most notably her pink coat and hair, but in grace and form, she was nothing like the elegant creature she saw staring back at her from the captured expanse of a photograph. To be told that in the moment, she looked even more like her, was nothing short of an honor.
“Thank you.” Candy all but whispered. “That…really means a lot to me.”
“I know it does.” Tange replied, gently as she cleared the distance between them. “Because, you’re my best friend.” she added, pressing her head against the other’s, affectionately.
“And we couldn’t be happier that you two found each other.” a voice said from below the stage.
✧ PREVIOUS PAGE ✧ FIRST PAGE ✧NEXT PAGE✧SS: Festival of Return pt1
General | Posted 4 years agoMorning came, as it always did, but with the budding of dawns’ light, the new day promised to be one unlike the ordinary. The town was once again a buzz with jubilation as families, friends and merchants made their way to the fairgrounds. Concession stands, game booths and carnival attractions had been erected and were undergoing their final setups and installments in anticipation of the crowds that were sure to fill the area from morning until evening.
Rested and ready for the day, Sweetheart and Plum were busy getting the final preparations done for the Sweet Shoppe stall. The blenders were cleaned and ready to create refreshing beverages. Trays of miniature sweets decorated the tabletop and scented the area in their sweet fragrance. The supplies were stocked and the uniforms were cleaned and pressed. All in all, they were ready to represent their store and show what the Sweet Shoppe had to offer.
Nearby on the grandstand stage, Mint, Sugar, Tange and Candy were preparing to represent the Sweet Shoppe in a different capacity.
Rested and ready for the day, Sweetheart and Plum were busy getting the final preparations done for the Sweet Shoppe stall. The blenders were cleaned and ready to create refreshing beverages. Trays of miniature sweets decorated the tabletop and scented the area in their sweet fragrance. The supplies were stocked and the uniforms were cleaned and pressed. All in all, they were ready to represent their store and show what the Sweet Shoppe had to offer.
Nearby on the grandstand stage, Mint, Sugar, Tange and Candy were preparing to represent the Sweet Shoppe in a different capacity.
✧ PREVIOUS PAGE ✧ FIRST PAGE ✧NEXT PAGE✧SS: Festival Eve pt8
General | Posted 4 years ago“I’d better go keep an eye on them.” Plum decided, following the kittens out of the kitchen.
“Thanks, Plum.” Boomer called out after her. “And thank you, too, Candy.” he added as he lifted Sweetheart from the ground and returned to his towering height with her safely nestled in his arms.
“Sure.” Candy sighed. “It’s just hair. Besides, you brought food so it’s a sacrifice I can make.” she decided, her attention returned to the rich aromas of the delivered dinner.
“Boomer, you should take Sweetheart to bed, now.” Mint suggested. “I will bring something for her to eat if she awakens.”
“I’ll run ahead and make the futon for you.” Sugar offered.
“Thanks, girls.” he said before following Sugar out of the kitchen and on toward the office.
“Well, I guess we should finish what we’re doing and then call it a night.” Tange suggested. “We can pick up first thing in the morning.”
“That might be best.” Mint agreed.
“After all, the presence of your flowing locks is required tonight, Candy.” Tange teased, fondling the pink cat’s hair. “We shouldn’t keep your eager hair admirers waiting.”
“Thanks, Plum.” Boomer called out after her. “And thank you, too, Candy.” he added as he lifted Sweetheart from the ground and returned to his towering height with her safely nestled in his arms.
“Sure.” Candy sighed. “It’s just hair. Besides, you brought food so it’s a sacrifice I can make.” she decided, her attention returned to the rich aromas of the delivered dinner.
“Boomer, you should take Sweetheart to bed, now.” Mint suggested. “I will bring something for her to eat if she awakens.”
“I’ll run ahead and make the futon for you.” Sugar offered.
“Thanks, girls.” he said before following Sugar out of the kitchen and on toward the office.
“Well, I guess we should finish what we’re doing and then call it a night.” Tange suggested. “We can pick up first thing in the morning.”
“That might be best.” Mint agreed.
“After all, the presence of your flowing locks is required tonight, Candy.” Tange teased, fondling the pink cat’s hair. “We shouldn’t keep your eager hair admirers waiting.”
✧ PREVIOUS PAGE ✧ FIRST PAGE ✧NEXT PAGE✧SS: Festival Eve pt7
General | Posted 4 years agoThe lavender cat sighed. “Amber,” she began, kneeling down beside the sunny girl, “your sister is already asleep. Why don’t you let Boomer put her to bed and you can sleep with me, instead.
“Aww…” the kitten moaned, “okay.”
“Oh, come now, don’t be so miserable.” she said, patting Amber’s head, “Besides, the other girls are spending the night here, too. …including Candy…and all her hair.”
“Oh!” Amber beamed, the look of dejection instantly replaced by the glow of elation. “We can play with Candy’s hair?”
Wordlessly, Plum turned her smiling eyes over to Candy’s dumbfounded visage.
Being a tomboy at heart, the idea of “playing with one’s hair” was less than appealing to her. And yet, if it was to make Amber happy, in the end, she knew that she couldn’t deny the angelic child much of anything. “Sure you can, Amber. Just don’t curl it this time, okay?”
“Yay!” the kitten cheered. “Plum, can you help me, please?”
“I sure will…right after you take a bath.”
“Okay!” she sang. “Malki, do you want to take a bath with me?” she asked.
“Okay.” the other kitten replied, hopping down from his brother’s back. “But, don’t put any of that flower stuff in the water.” he demanded as the pair scampered out of the room.
“Aww…” the kitten moaned, “okay.”
“Oh, come now, don’t be so miserable.” she said, patting Amber’s head, “Besides, the other girls are spending the night here, too. …including Candy…and all her hair.”
“Oh!” Amber beamed, the look of dejection instantly replaced by the glow of elation. “We can play with Candy’s hair?”
Wordlessly, Plum turned her smiling eyes over to Candy’s dumbfounded visage.
Being a tomboy at heart, the idea of “playing with one’s hair” was less than appealing to her. And yet, if it was to make Amber happy, in the end, she knew that she couldn’t deny the angelic child much of anything. “Sure you can, Amber. Just don’t curl it this time, okay?”
“Yay!” the kitten cheered. “Plum, can you help me, please?”
“I sure will…right after you take a bath.”
“Okay!” she sang. “Malki, do you want to take a bath with me?” she asked.
“Okay.” the other kitten replied, hopping down from his brother’s back. “But, don’t put any of that flower stuff in the water.” he demanded as the pair scampered out of the room.
✧ PREVIOUS PAGE ✧ FIRST PAGE ✧NEXT PAGE✧SS: Festival Eve pt6
General | Posted 4 years ago“Rice and prawn soup, my favorite.” she sang. “Oh, Malki, thank you!” she cooed, setting the bowl aside to hug the blushing youth. “You’re so sweet. I wish I had a little brother just like you.” she added, kissing his brow.
The little tom, Malki, blushed a bit more then squirmed out of Sugar’s hold, scrambling back to where Boomer was standing. With practiced ease, he nimbly scurried up the fisher’s back and draped his arms about his broad shoulders, hiding behind the ponytail that held Boomer’s hair in place. A soft chuckle escaped Boomer’s chest as he reached up to pat the boy’s head.
“Your brother’s always so nice to Sugar, Boomer.” Plum voiced. “I think he may have a little crush on her.”
“Well, apart from Mama, Sugar’s is the only one whose kisses he doesn’t hurriedly wipe away.” Boomer supplied. “But then, she is always so kind to him, so it’s natural that he’s rather fond of her.”
“Oh, is that how it is?” she asked with a grin. “Well, if you say so. You know him best, after all. …and speaking of what’s best…” she mused, her eyes falling upon Sweetheart whose exhaustion was no longer concealed as the golden cat sat on the floor sleeping soundly with her little sister seated comfortably upon her lap. “Boomer, would you get her to bed? You know how to work the futon in the office, right?”
“Sure.” he replied, kneeling down to scoop his lover up into his arms. “Amber, honey, why don’t you stay here with the girls and help them finish making things for tomorrow’s festival.”
“But…I was going to sleep with Sweetheart.” she whimpered.
“Oh…ah…” he stammered, offering the girl an apologetic look before casting a desperate glance up to Plum.
The little tom, Malki, blushed a bit more then squirmed out of Sugar’s hold, scrambling back to where Boomer was standing. With practiced ease, he nimbly scurried up the fisher’s back and draped his arms about his broad shoulders, hiding behind the ponytail that held Boomer’s hair in place. A soft chuckle escaped Boomer’s chest as he reached up to pat the boy’s head.
“Your brother’s always so nice to Sugar, Boomer.” Plum voiced. “I think he may have a little crush on her.”
“Well, apart from Mama, Sugar’s is the only one whose kisses he doesn’t hurriedly wipe away.” Boomer supplied. “But then, she is always so kind to him, so it’s natural that he’s rather fond of her.”
“Oh, is that how it is?” she asked with a grin. “Well, if you say so. You know him best, after all. …and speaking of what’s best…” she mused, her eyes falling upon Sweetheart whose exhaustion was no longer concealed as the golden cat sat on the floor sleeping soundly with her little sister seated comfortably upon her lap. “Boomer, would you get her to bed? You know how to work the futon in the office, right?”
“Sure.” he replied, kneeling down to scoop his lover up into his arms. “Amber, honey, why don’t you stay here with the girls and help them finish making things for tomorrow’s festival.”
“But…I was going to sleep with Sweetheart.” she whimpered.
“Oh…ah…” he stammered, offering the girl an apologetic look before casting a desperate glance up to Plum.
✧ PREVIOUS PAGE ✧ FIRST PAGE ✧NEXT PAGE✧SS: Festival Eve pt5
General | Posted 4 years ago“Oh yeah! Red Hawk food!” Tange exclaimed, pouncing on Boomer’s bag of food along with Candy. “Your tribe’s foods are the best!” she added, praising Boomer and the culinary arts of his people.
“They really are.” Candy agreed, sifting through the bag of freshly prepared food stuffs. “Oooh, salmon bread! Yum!” she purred.
While the pair liberated the spoils from the sumptuous edible booty, the second kitten, a cinnamon-colored tom with bright green eyes and a mountain of chestnut hair hurried over to where Sugar was standing nearby watching her friends ravenously unpack the meal. He clutched a small bag to his tiny chest as he galloped over. Once he was at her feet, he gently tugged on her dress, urging her to come down to his level. Obediently, Sugar knelt down, demurely settling down before the youth.
“Yes?” she whispered, her voice like the dulcet song of a bell.
Blushing beneath his fur, the small kitten whispered into her ear. “I asked Mama to make this for you…because you like it, right?” he asked, placing the bag onto her lap.
“Oh?” she mused, glancing down upon the bag. Neatly, she opened the sack and delicately withdrew the contents inside. A smile touched her face as she pulled out a covered decorative ceramic bowl. She didn’t have to open it to know what it was.
“They really are.” Candy agreed, sifting through the bag of freshly prepared food stuffs. “Oooh, salmon bread! Yum!” she purred.
While the pair liberated the spoils from the sumptuous edible booty, the second kitten, a cinnamon-colored tom with bright green eyes and a mountain of chestnut hair hurried over to where Sugar was standing nearby watching her friends ravenously unpack the meal. He clutched a small bag to his tiny chest as he galloped over. Once he was at her feet, he gently tugged on her dress, urging her to come down to his level. Obediently, Sugar knelt down, demurely settling down before the youth.
“Yes?” she whispered, her voice like the dulcet song of a bell.
Blushing beneath his fur, the small kitten whispered into her ear. “I asked Mama to make this for you…because you like it, right?” he asked, placing the bag onto her lap.
“Oh?” she mused, glancing down upon the bag. Neatly, she opened the sack and delicately withdrew the contents inside. A smile touched her face as she pulled out a covered decorative ceramic bowl. She didn’t have to open it to know what it was.
✧ PREVIOUS PAGE ✧ FIRST PAGE ✧NEXT PAGE✧SS: Festival Eve pt4
General | Posted 4 years agoA collective, “Ooooooh” arose from Candy and Tange, drawing an embarrassed heat to Sweetheart’s cheeks.
Boomer chuckled. “Ah, anyway, after work I stopped by your house to pick up someone who was missing her big sister.” he said, touching the head of a small, golden kitten that was nearly a mirror image of Sweetheart, save for her bright blue eyes. The little girl giggled at the tom’s affectionate repast and hugged his leg as she could reach no higher upon his tall form. Her gratitude shown, she turned her attention to Sweetheart and repeated the gesture against the leg of the gracious cat whose features she so closely shared.
“I missed you.” the child sang, her voice muffled against Sweetheart’s thigh. “The house is sad when you’re not there.” she added.
“Aww, Amber,” Sweetheart cooed, kneeling down to hug her younger sibling, “I missed you, too.” she sang, showering the girl with soft, playful kisses eliciting peals of laughter from the tiny female.
Boomer smiled down upon the pair as they exchanged sentiments of sisterly devotion. “Oh! I almost forgot.” he exclaimed, suddenly. “Since Mama knew you girls were going to be working late, she made you something to eat so you wouldn’t have to make yourselves dinner on top of…er…everything else.” he announced, holding up a large bag of what was, judging from the aroma, some of his mother’s delectable home cooking.
Boomer chuckled. “Ah, anyway, after work I stopped by your house to pick up someone who was missing her big sister.” he said, touching the head of a small, golden kitten that was nearly a mirror image of Sweetheart, save for her bright blue eyes. The little girl giggled at the tom’s affectionate repast and hugged his leg as she could reach no higher upon his tall form. Her gratitude shown, she turned her attention to Sweetheart and repeated the gesture against the leg of the gracious cat whose features she so closely shared.
“I missed you.” the child sang, her voice muffled against Sweetheart’s thigh. “The house is sad when you’re not there.” she added.
“Aww, Amber,” Sweetheart cooed, kneeling down to hug her younger sibling, “I missed you, too.” she sang, showering the girl with soft, playful kisses eliciting peals of laughter from the tiny female.
Boomer smiled down upon the pair as they exchanged sentiments of sisterly devotion. “Oh! I almost forgot.” he exclaimed, suddenly. “Since Mama knew you girls were going to be working late, she made you something to eat so you wouldn’t have to make yourselves dinner on top of…er…everything else.” he announced, holding up a large bag of what was, judging from the aroma, some of his mother’s delectable home cooking.
✧ PREVIOUS PAGE ✧ FIRST PAGE ✧NEXT PAGE✧SS: Festival Eve pt3
General | Posted 4 years agoWearily, Sweetheart sighed. With all her staff against her, there was no sense arguing a point that she certainly was not going to get across. As it was, she truly was exhausted. Her morning had been spent working at the shop, then heading out to run a multitude of errands, attend meetings and make final preparations for her store’s participation in the festival. In truth, she had amazed herself by even having the power to keep her eyes open and remain standing.
“Alright, girls, I give up.” she said behind a yawn. “You win. I’ll go and get some rest.”
“And something to eat?” Sugar asked, worriedly.
A kind smile touched her face as her eyes fell on the sweetest of the Sweet Shoppe girls. “Yes, Sugar, I’ll get something to eat, too.”
“And I’ll make sure she eats it.” a warm, strong voice vowed as he stepped through the doorway of the kitchen. The girls turned to look toward the entrance where a tall, lean, cinnamon-colored male stood accompanied by two kittens.
“Boomer!” Sweetheart sang, hurrying over to the open arms of the young tom. “Mmm…” she murmured as she melted into his embrace. “What are you doing here? I thought you had to help harvest the fish.”
“We finished already.” he said, holding her tight. “I think all of us down at the wharf just wanted to get home early so we worked even harder to finish, so we could go home that much sooner to the people we love.” he purred, tucking his finger beneath her chin and tilting her head upward to steal a kiss from his beloved.
“Alright, girls, I give up.” she said behind a yawn. “You win. I’ll go and get some rest.”
“And something to eat?” Sugar asked, worriedly.
A kind smile touched her face as her eyes fell on the sweetest of the Sweet Shoppe girls. “Yes, Sugar, I’ll get something to eat, too.”
“And I’ll make sure she eats it.” a warm, strong voice vowed as he stepped through the doorway of the kitchen. The girls turned to look toward the entrance where a tall, lean, cinnamon-colored male stood accompanied by two kittens.
“Boomer!” Sweetheart sang, hurrying over to the open arms of the young tom. “Mmm…” she murmured as she melted into his embrace. “What are you doing here? I thought you had to help harvest the fish.”
“We finished already.” he said, holding her tight. “I think all of us down at the wharf just wanted to get home early so we worked even harder to finish, so we could go home that much sooner to the people we love.” he purred, tucking his finger beneath her chin and tilting her head upward to steal a kiss from his beloved.
✧ PREVIOUS PAGE ✧ FIRST PAGE ✧NEXT PAGE✧SS: Festival Eve pt2
General | Posted 4 years ago“Sweetheart, I really think you should get some rest.” Plum said as she gently touched her friend’s shoulder, startling her from a distracted trance.
“EH!?” the golden cat gasped. “Oh…no, I can keep going.” she insisted, offering a weak smile. “Really, I’m fine.”
“I agree with Plum.” Tange announced, pausing in her fruit slicing to join in the conversation. “You look really tired. You should go to bed. We can do this.”
“But, I—“
“Aaaaaand, you didn’t even take your midday rest.” Candy chimed in, wiping her sticky hands upon her apron.
“But, I’m—“
“Come to think of it,” Mint began, pausing in her dishwashing task to supply her input, “I do not recall having seen you eat much of anything at all today.”
“Oh, but—“
“You haven’t eaten, either?” Sugar exclaimed, accidentally squirting an ample splattering of frosting onto a batch of miniature cupcakes. “But, you’ll make yourself sick if you don’t eat well.” she said, as she hurried to her manager’s side, gently taking hold of her hands and squeezing them, warmly.
“And if you don’t get proper rest.” Tange added.
“EH!?” the golden cat gasped. “Oh…no, I can keep going.” she insisted, offering a weak smile. “Really, I’m fine.”
“I agree with Plum.” Tange announced, pausing in her fruit slicing to join in the conversation. “You look really tired. You should go to bed. We can do this.”
“But, I—“
“Aaaaaand, you didn’t even take your midday rest.” Candy chimed in, wiping her sticky hands upon her apron.
“But, I’m—“
“Come to think of it,” Mint began, pausing in her dishwashing task to supply her input, “I do not recall having seen you eat much of anything at all today.”
“Oh, but—“
“You haven’t eaten, either?” Sugar exclaimed, accidentally squirting an ample splattering of frosting onto a batch of miniature cupcakes. “But, you’ll make yourself sick if you don’t eat well.” she said, as she hurried to her manager’s side, gently taking hold of her hands and squeezing them, warmly.
“And if you don’t get proper rest.” Tange added.
✧ PREVIOUS PAGE ✧ FIRST PAGE ✧NEXT PAGE✧SS: Festival Eve pt1
General | Posted 4 years agoThe last flicker of light drained from the sky as night moved in to sweep away the day and blanket the world in her cooling twilight shadows. The hum of the day’s activities quieted as evening’s arrival ushered its calming hush over the land. Most of the children of Calico had retired to their homes and to their families to rest and prepare for the upcoming festivities. Yet, there were still some within the community who would not be stilled but by the day’s end. Though the sign on the Sweet Shoppe door read, “closed”, the restaurant was far from vacant.
Inside the shop, the girls were in the kitchen, steadily working hard to prepare the comestibles for the morrows’ fair. Some washed and sliced fruit while others mixed aromatic batters for baking and others, still, decorated savory pastries with the restaurant’s usual flourish and flare. Spirits were high and the girls were filled with energy as they worked…all except one.
Inside the shop, the girls were in the kitchen, steadily working hard to prepare the comestibles for the morrows’ fair. Some washed and sliced fruit while others mixed aromatic batters for baking and others, still, decorated savory pastries with the restaurant’s usual flourish and flare. Spirits were high and the girls were filled with energy as they worked…all except one.
✧ PREVIOUS PAGE ✧ FIRST PAGE ✧NEXT PAGE✧SS: Festival News
General | Posted 4 years ago“In the news, today, the City of Calico is a buzz as it prepares for the Festival of Return. Both cats and kittens alike are getting excited for tomorrow’s celebration.” said Sabrina, a golden furred redheaded queen.
“Indeed they are, Sabrina. The Festival of Return is one of the most anticipated events in all the country. Kittens are eagerly readying their fishing poles in hopes of honing their skills while mothers prepare picnic lunches for families to share on what promises to be a simply lovely day.” replied Kendrick, a blue monochromatic tom.
“You’re right about that, Ken. And it’s not only children and parents making ready for the day, but shopkeepers and businesses as well.”
“Yes. One of the best parts of the festival is the showcase of assorted goods and trades from our community’s many talented merchants.”
“And this buffet of goods and wares are all offered absolutely free of charge.” Sabrina said.
“Yes, this practice is done to honor the gifts and bounty that nature gives of her children. Since nature demands no payment for its gifts, vendors, in turn, offer samplings of their establishments’ commodities at no cost to the festival attendees.” Kendrick explained.
“So, if you’re looking to sample some of our restaurants and shops best delights, make sure you come out to celebrate the festival tomorrow.”
“And while you’re there, be on the lookout for the royal family.”
“Yes, that’s right. The Festival of Return is Emperor Artemis’ favorite holiday. He never misses the chance to share it with the people of Calico.”
“Speaking of the royal family, our crowned prince, Prince Alder is expected to…”
“Indeed they are, Sabrina. The Festival of Return is one of the most anticipated events in all the country. Kittens are eagerly readying their fishing poles in hopes of honing their skills while mothers prepare picnic lunches for families to share on what promises to be a simply lovely day.” replied Kendrick, a blue monochromatic tom.
“You’re right about that, Ken. And it’s not only children and parents making ready for the day, but shopkeepers and businesses as well.”
“Yes. One of the best parts of the festival is the showcase of assorted goods and trades from our community’s many talented merchants.”
“And this buffet of goods and wares are all offered absolutely free of charge.” Sabrina said.
“Yes, this practice is done to honor the gifts and bounty that nature gives of her children. Since nature demands no payment for its gifts, vendors, in turn, offer samplings of their establishments’ commodities at no cost to the festival attendees.” Kendrick explained.
“So, if you’re looking to sample some of our restaurants and shops best delights, make sure you come out to celebrate the festival tomorrow.”
“And while you’re there, be on the lookout for the royal family.”
“Yes, that’s right. The Festival of Return is Emperor Artemis’ favorite holiday. He never misses the chance to share it with the people of Calico.”
“Speaking of the royal family, our crowned prince, Prince Alder is expected to…”
✧ PREVIOUS PAGE ✧ FIRST PAGE ✧NEXT PAGE✧SS: Beginning Summary
General | Posted 4 years agoWell, now that all of the major characters have been introduced, I can move forward. I think, if you've been reading along with us, that you know who the Princes of Calico are, so i didn't give them a bio. I can, if it will help, though.
This is a brief summary of events that have already happened in the comic:
In the news, the Second Prince of Calico, Arjuna, has been arranged to marry the Second Princess of Kitwa, Amarah. It is very unusual for royals to be wed to one another, so this is a big deal.
Sweetheart's nemesis, Brandy, put in an application to join the Calico City Consumer Competition that is scheduled to take place during the Festival of Return, on behalf of the Sweet Shoppe. She did this, because it puts the Sweet Shoppe girls in direct competition with Brandy's Place girls. Sweetheart has no desire to compete, but with this entry, she has no choice.
Part of joining the festival as a restaurant establishment, is having a stall and offering samples of your goods. This is going to be tedious, because they have to bake a lot of food in a very short amount of time, as Brandy conveniently "forgot" to relay the information to Sweetheart until the eve of the event.
One of the highlights of the competition is a beauty contest and a talent contest. Managers are not allowed to compete, so Sweetheart and Plum cannot join. They have to watch their stall, anyway. It's up to the other girls, Sugar, Candy, Tange and Mint to represent the shop. As Mint is the oldest of the four and the most shapely, she has been picked to handle the beauty pageant.
This is a brief summary of events that have already happened in the comic:
In the news, the Second Prince of Calico, Arjuna, has been arranged to marry the Second Princess of Kitwa, Amarah. It is very unusual for royals to be wed to one another, so this is a big deal.
Sweetheart's nemesis, Brandy, put in an application to join the Calico City Consumer Competition that is scheduled to take place during the Festival of Return, on behalf of the Sweet Shoppe. She did this, because it puts the Sweet Shoppe girls in direct competition with Brandy's Place girls. Sweetheart has no desire to compete, but with this entry, she has no choice.
Part of joining the festival as a restaurant establishment, is having a stall and offering samples of your goods. This is going to be tedious, because they have to bake a lot of food in a very short amount of time, as Brandy conveniently "forgot" to relay the information to Sweetheart until the eve of the event.
One of the highlights of the competition is a beauty contest and a talent contest. Managers are not allowed to compete, so Sweetheart and Plum cannot join. They have to watch their stall, anyway. It's up to the other girls, Sugar, Candy, Tange and Mint to represent the shop. As Mint is the oldest of the four and the most shapely, she has been picked to handle the beauty pageant.
✧ PREVIOUS PAGE ✧ FIRST PAGE ✧NEXT PAGE✧SS: Beginning Amber and Malki
General | Posted 4 years agoAmber and Malki: Amber, age 5, is Sweetheart's baby sister. She, Sweetheart and their father, Bellen are all that's left of their family. The Great Flood took everyone else. It is because of Sweetheart that Amber survived. Amber looks up to her sister and recognizes her as sort of a mother, as their actual mother died when she was just a few days old. Due to their father being disabled, Sweetheart practically raised the girl. She is your typical 5 year old, she loves to play, pretend and she likes pretty things, like Candy's long hair. Amber is sweet, playful and attached. She doesn't like being apart from her sister, because she fears that she will go away, too, just like the rest of the family that she never knew. She is also very fond of Malki, as the two grew up together.
Malki, age 6, is Boomer's younger brother. Just like Amber, Malki's family was torn apart during the Great Flood. Only he, Boomer and their mother, Keemeome survived, entirely thanks to the valiant efforts of Boomer. Malki looks up to his brother, but he doesn't view him as a parental figure the way Amber does to her sister. This is mostly due to the closeness he has with his mother. Malki is a rambunctious child with lots of energy. He dreams of being a Red Hawk warrior, like his brother and to be recognized as a man (he still has a long way to go). Malki is determined, competitive and compassionate. He has a not-so-secret crush on Sugar, but is also very close to Amber.
Malki, age 6, is Boomer's younger brother. Just like Amber, Malki's family was torn apart during the Great Flood. Only he, Boomer and their mother, Keemeome survived, entirely thanks to the valiant efforts of Boomer. Malki looks up to his brother, but he doesn't view him as a parental figure the way Amber does to her sister. This is mostly due to the closeness he has with his mother. Malki is a rambunctious child with lots of energy. He dreams of being a Red Hawk warrior, like his brother and to be recognized as a man (he still has a long way to go). Malki is determined, competitive and compassionate. He has a not-so-secret crush on Sugar, but is also very close to Amber.
✧ PREVIOUS PAGE ✧ FIRST PAGE ✧NEXT PAGE✧SS: Beginning Boomer and Brandy
General | Posted 4 years agoBoomer: age 23 - the brave young warrior whose blood sings the song of that of the Chetanluta Clan (Red Hawk Tribe) and who is the eldest child of his family, Boomer is a very family-oriented young man with lofty ideals and a strong sense of honor and duty. During the tragedy that was the Great Flood, Boomer singlehandedly saved his mother, Keemeome and younger brother, Malki. They were the only members of his family to survive and they owe their survival to him. With his father, Takoda, deceased, Boomer assumed the role of "head of the family". He does what he can to be the provider that his father was, but he often fears that he is not living up to the expectation. This is not the opinion of his mother, or his younger brother, but Boomer is very hard on himself and wants to care for his family, to make them happy and to keep them safe and well. Boomer is devoted, strong, and honorable. Sweetheart is the love of his life. (the only non-stylized picture I have of Boomer is a nude drawing that you can see --> here.
Brandy: age 22 - the naughty, sexy, beauty and owner of the tavern aptly named, Brandy's Place, Brandy is your typical bad girl. She is Sweetheart's rival in every way, from competing establishments (even though their restaurants are not even remotely alike) to trying to steal her Red Hawk lover (which is never going to happen, but you can't tell her that), though the rivalry is a one-sided competition. Brandy's Place is a tavern that serves hearty foods and spirited beverages. It's a favorite place to relax and unwind among the toms of the city. Meanwhile, Sweetheart's Sweet Shoppe is a bakery café that serves sweet treats and little things to eat (like soup and sandwiches) and is bright and inviting, especially for children. From the sexy uniforms to the meaty, savory dishes, and the dim, mood lighting, it's not difficult to see why the men find her establishment especially entrancing. (by comparison, these are the Sweet Shoppe Uniforms) Interestingly, Sweetheart has no desire to fight to the sassy girl, but is often given no choice, as Brandy always seems to pull her into her shenanigans, schemes that usually involves them competing in some way. Still, Sweetheart always comes through, thanks to her determination, her sense of decency and, of course, her friends and family. Brandy is fierce, clever and manipulative.
Brandy: age 22 - the naughty, sexy, beauty and owner of the tavern aptly named, Brandy's Place, Brandy is your typical bad girl. She is Sweetheart's rival in every way, from competing establishments (even though their restaurants are not even remotely alike) to trying to steal her Red Hawk lover (which is never going to happen, but you can't tell her that), though the rivalry is a one-sided competition. Brandy's Place is a tavern that serves hearty foods and spirited beverages. It's a favorite place to relax and unwind among the toms of the city. Meanwhile, Sweetheart's Sweet Shoppe is a bakery café that serves sweet treats and little things to eat (like soup and sandwiches) and is bright and inviting, especially for children. From the sexy uniforms to the meaty, savory dishes, and the dim, mood lighting, it's not difficult to see why the men find her establishment especially entrancing. (by comparison, these are the Sweet Shoppe Uniforms) Interestingly, Sweetheart has no desire to fight to the sassy girl, but is often given no choice, as Brandy always seems to pull her into her shenanigans, schemes that usually involves them competing in some way. Still, Sweetheart always comes through, thanks to her determination, her sense of decency and, of course, her friends and family. Brandy is fierce, clever and manipulative.
✧ PREVIOUS PAGE ✧ FIRST PAGE ✧NEXT PAGE✧SS: Beginning Mint and Sugar
General | Posted 4 years agoMint: age 20 - Mint is a sultry beauty from the Island of Kitwa (inspired by India). She speaks with a heavy accent that the girls and the guests find captivating. Mint is very formal and carries herself with grace. Mint is polite, gentle and curious. She and Sugar are very close.
Sugar: age 16 - Sugar is quiet and shy. She loves to sing and has a voice that's as lovely as a bell. Sugar was born on the Island of Cathal (inspired by England). She moved to Calico (inspired by the United States) when she was three and as such speaks with an accent that's a bit diluted, but comes out more when she's around family. Sugar is bashful, compassionate and helpful. She and Mint are very close.
Sugar: age 16 - Sugar is quiet and shy. She loves to sing and has a voice that's as lovely as a bell. Sugar was born on the Island of Cathal (inspired by England). She moved to Calico (inspired by the United States) when she was three and as such speaks with an accent that's a bit diluted, but comes out more when she's around family. Sugar is bashful, compassionate and helpful. She and Mint are very close.
✧ PREVIOUS PAGE ✧ FIRST PAGE ✧NEXT PAGE✧SS: Beginning Candy and Tange
General | Posted 4 years agoCandy: age 17 - the youngest child and the only daughter among six brothers, Candy is an adorable tomboy and her father wouldn't have her any other way. She was raised entirely by the boys in her family, as her mother died due to complications when she was born. She never got to meet her mother, but she sees her often, as she was a model along with her husband (it was how they met ♡). There are pictures and magazines of her that never caught the full beauty of the woman. Her mother, Coral, is the reason why Candy keeps her hair long. That's how her mother had her hair and she knows that her father likes seeing it that way. Candy is naive, playful and athletic. Her best friend is, Tange. They are referred to as, "twins", though they are not actually related. But, they have an uncanny relationship and a closeness that is as strong as any blood bond. They often speak in unison, to the great frustration of Plum and, to a lesser extent, the irritation of Sweetheart. They both work at the Sweet Shoppe, though, they don't always pull their weight, as getting into trouble is just more fun.
Tange: age 17 - Tange (short for, Tangerine) is an intellectual, through and through. Knowledge and understanding are important to her and makes up a lot of her character. She dreams of becoming a doctor, just like her father, Tahir. Her desire is to use science to make the world a better place...not that there's anything wrong with it, now. But, things like sustainable ways to raise livestock that doesn't take a toll on the land and finding ways to conserve energy are things she is passionate about. Tange is intelligent, bold and mischievous. She always stands up for what she believes in and always sticks up for the little guy. Her best friend and partner in crime is, Candy. They became friends when Candy's father made the mistake of sending her to school while she was in estrus. He, of course, had no knowledge of how to handle things, but when she went to school and was harassed by some unruly boys, Tange came to her rescue and, after beating the boys to a pulp, she took her by the hand and brought her to her home where her mother, Dr. Cherry, took care of things. Now, Candy goes to Tange's house to ride out her cycles, safely and without trouble. Since she and Tange are always together, their cycles have synced up and they generally miss school, together...and get into mischief.
Candy and Tange
Tange: age 17 - Tange (short for, Tangerine) is an intellectual, through and through. Knowledge and understanding are important to her and makes up a lot of her character. She dreams of becoming a doctor, just like her father, Tahir. Her desire is to use science to make the world a better place...not that there's anything wrong with it, now. But, things like sustainable ways to raise livestock that doesn't take a toll on the land and finding ways to conserve energy are things she is passionate about. Tange is intelligent, bold and mischievous. She always stands up for what she believes in and always sticks up for the little guy. Her best friend and partner in crime is, Candy. They became friends when Candy's father made the mistake of sending her to school while she was in estrus. He, of course, had no knowledge of how to handle things, but when she went to school and was harassed by some unruly boys, Tange came to her rescue and, after beating the boys to a pulp, she took her by the hand and brought her to her home where her mother, Dr. Cherry, took care of things. Now, Candy goes to Tange's house to ride out her cycles, safely and without trouble. Since she and Tange are always together, their cycles have synced up and they generally miss school, together...and get into mischief.
Candy and Tange
✧ PREVIOUS PAGE ✧ FIRST PAGE ✧NEXT PAGE✧SS: Beginning Sweetheart and Plum
General | Posted 4 years agoSweetheart age: 22 - the young proprietor of Calico City's finest cafe & bakery, Sweet Shoppe, Sweetheart is kind, driven and generous. She and her mother, Diana, always dreamed of having a little cafe where they could make delicious sweets for everyone to enjoy. Though Diana passed away years ago, Sweetheart was determined to fulfill their dream. Not only did she reach their shared goal, her Shoppe is a thriving success, popular with villagers of all ages. Her best friend is, Plum. Her lover is Boomer.
Plum age: 22 - the young assistant manager to the Sweet Shoppe, Plum is strong, cool and compassionate. When her parents were lost at sea, Plum stepped up and adopted the role of mother to her 7 younger. Along with her litter-mates, Page and Emeril she continues to raise the children she has reared as her own. Plum's best friend is, Sweetheart.
Plum age: 22 - the young assistant manager to the Sweet Shoppe, Plum is strong, cool and compassionate. When her parents were lost at sea, Plum stepped up and adopted the role of mother to her 7 younger. Along with her litter-mates, Page and Emeril she continues to raise the children she has reared as her own. Plum's best friend is, Sweetheart.
✧ PREVIOUS PAGE ✧ FIRST PAGE ✧NEXT PAGE✧That's All Folks
General | Posted 4 years agoWell, my "Spotlight" series is done and I want to thank everyone that came along for the journey. ♡ It's interesting, but I didn't actually intend for it to be a daily snippet, it just sort of worked out that way. So, I'm so happy that those of you that read along enjoyed it. ^_^
Now that it's done, if there is a different character(s), events, or anything that you would like to see a series like this about, just let me know. I'm happy to start another journey with you, so feel free to suggest.
Again, thanks for coming along with me on this. I cannot tell you how happy I am that you found it interesting enough to continually read the life of the Sweet Shoppe cast during the tragic event of, the Great Flood. ♡
Now that it's done, if there is a different character(s), events, or anything that you would like to see a series like this about, just let me know. I'm happy to start another journey with you, so feel free to suggest.
Again, thanks for coming along with me on this. I cannot tell you how happy I am that you found it interesting enough to continually read the life of the Sweet Shoppe cast during the tragic event of, the Great Flood. ♡
✧ PREVIOUS PAGE ✧ FIRST PAGE ✧NEXT PAGE✧Spotlight: Epilogue (Arjuna and Sweetheart pt5)
General | Posted 4 years agoA reminiscent smile painted his visage, as he listened to her regale him with stories of her beloved mother. “It’s funny…” he began, quietly, “but that is exactly what Alder told me that she would say. I didn’t believe him. I wanted to, but I always thought my affection was wrong and an affront to her honor and your father’s.”
Once again, she shook her head. “Daddy knew, too.” she admitted, startling him once again. “Yup, he knew. He teased Mama about it and said that he had competition. It was hard for him to beat the love of a prince, he would say. Mama would always swat him and tell him to be nice. She reminded him that he was a kitten once and that he probably admired someone that was unable to return his affection and that her rejection, would surely have been hard for him. But, truly, they both thought you were very sweet. I know, because, when you stopped following Mama around, Daddy was worried, too.” she said, a warm smile touching her lips.
A shy, awkward smile rested upon the prince’s face. “I didn’t know. I thought…” he trailed.
Sweetheart smiled and placed a feathery soft kiss on his cheek. “Mama took your love for her very seriously.” she said, quietly. “She said that she was honored and that she felt special, because you felt that she was worthy enough to catch your eye and your heart. You praying over her on that day, I know she was smiling at you from the winds. She would have been happy to know that you didn’t hate her for not loving you back. She would have been happy to know that you still cared for her…because she cared for you, too. You were very precious to her. Thank you, for allowing her to rest, knowing that. None of her children were able to bid her farewell, but someone that loved her, even without having her love returned, someone like you who truly loved her, gave her peace. She wanted you to tell me this, because now I know…she didn’t die alone.” she whispered, as tears began to stream from her eyes.
Arjuna listened to her speak and felt the emotion that was pouring forth with each word. They were healing words, for the both of them. It was his turn to express his feeling. Quietly, he wrapped his arms around the golden queen and held her, tight. She was sobbing, again, but this time, he knew that the tears she shed, were not only in grief…but, also in gratitude and relief. All those years ago, Alder had been right. Arjuna was so thankful that he had an older brother that always looked out for him and guided him when he did not know the way. Had it not been for his brother, he would not have had the courage to pray for Diana, the gentle girl’s mother and the woman would have left this world with no one to bid her farewell. His brother’s wisdom stayed that from happening and he would never be able to thank him enough for it.
For a while the two cats held each other in an embrace of mutual love, the love they both had, though in different ways, for the beloved queen. Relief and peace settled within them. A long passed worry was finally, able to be put to rest.
Once again, she shook her head. “Daddy knew, too.” she admitted, startling him once again. “Yup, he knew. He teased Mama about it and said that he had competition. It was hard for him to beat the love of a prince, he would say. Mama would always swat him and tell him to be nice. She reminded him that he was a kitten once and that he probably admired someone that was unable to return his affection and that her rejection, would surely have been hard for him. But, truly, they both thought you were very sweet. I know, because, when you stopped following Mama around, Daddy was worried, too.” she said, a warm smile touching her lips.
A shy, awkward smile rested upon the prince’s face. “I didn’t know. I thought…” he trailed.
Sweetheart smiled and placed a feathery soft kiss on his cheek. “Mama took your love for her very seriously.” she said, quietly. “She said that she was honored and that she felt special, because you felt that she was worthy enough to catch your eye and your heart. You praying over her on that day, I know she was smiling at you from the winds. She would have been happy to know that you didn’t hate her for not loving you back. She would have been happy to know that you still cared for her…because she cared for you, too. You were very precious to her. Thank you, for allowing her to rest, knowing that. None of her children were able to bid her farewell, but someone that loved her, even without having her love returned, someone like you who truly loved her, gave her peace. She wanted you to tell me this, because now I know…she didn’t die alone.” she whispered, as tears began to stream from her eyes.
Arjuna listened to her speak and felt the emotion that was pouring forth with each word. They were healing words, for the both of them. It was his turn to express his feeling. Quietly, he wrapped his arms around the golden queen and held her, tight. She was sobbing, again, but this time, he knew that the tears she shed, were not only in grief…but, also in gratitude and relief. All those years ago, Alder had been right. Arjuna was so thankful that he had an older brother that always looked out for him and guided him when he did not know the way. Had it not been for his brother, he would not have had the courage to pray for Diana, the gentle girl’s mother and the woman would have left this world with no one to bid her farewell. His brother’s wisdom stayed that from happening and he would never be able to thank him enough for it.
For a while the two cats held each other in an embrace of mutual love, the love they both had, though in different ways, for the beloved queen. Relief and peace settled within them. A long passed worry was finally, able to be put to rest.
✧ PREVIOUS PAGE ✧ FIRST PAGE ✧NEXT PAGE✧Spotlight: Epilogue (Arjuna and Sweetheart pt4)
General | Posted 4 years agoA surprised gasp escaped him. “She…knew?” he asked, in disbelief.
The girl nodded her head and smiled. “I can’t believe I didn’t realize it until now, but you were my mother’s ‘little blue prince’.” The startled look in his eyes made her giggle, before she continued. “I thought she was speaking figuratively. I didn’t realize that she meant it, literally. Mama knew about your affection for her. She told me, that her little blue prince would follow her around, trying his best to stay unnoticed. It didn’t take her long to realize why she often had a second shadow.”
Finally, a small smile touched his face. “I thought I was doing my best to stay out of sight.”
Again, the girl nodded. “That’s why she knew. Whenever she looked your way, you would hide as quickly as you could, but she always saw you. She thought you were very sweet, but she also felt badly.”
Alarm colored his face. “Badly? Because of me?” he asked.
“Not exactly.” she answered. “She said that you followed her around a lot, then all of a sudden, you stopped. After that, whenever she saw you, you seemed sad, or ‘blue’. She realized that you must have realized that she already had Daddy. She felt badly, because she felt like she broke your heart. When you stopped looking for her, she started looking for you. She wanted to tell you that she was sorry, for not making you understand sooner.”
The girl nodded her head and smiled. “I can’t believe I didn’t realize it until now, but you were my mother’s ‘little blue prince’.” The startled look in his eyes made her giggle, before she continued. “I thought she was speaking figuratively. I didn’t realize that she meant it, literally. Mama knew about your affection for her. She told me, that her little blue prince would follow her around, trying his best to stay unnoticed. It didn’t take her long to realize why she often had a second shadow.”
Finally, a small smile touched his face. “I thought I was doing my best to stay out of sight.”
Again, the girl nodded. “That’s why she knew. Whenever she looked your way, you would hide as quickly as you could, but she always saw you. She thought you were very sweet, but she also felt badly.”
Alarm colored his face. “Badly? Because of me?” he asked.
“Not exactly.” she answered. “She said that you followed her around a lot, then all of a sudden, you stopped. After that, whenever she saw you, you seemed sad, or ‘blue’. She realized that you must have realized that she already had Daddy. She felt badly, because she felt like she broke your heart. When you stopped looking for her, she started looking for you. She wanted to tell you that she was sorry, for not making you understand sooner.”
✧ PREVIOUS PAGE ✧ FIRST PAGE ✧NEXT PAGE✧Spotlight: Epilogue (Arjuna and Sweetheart pt3)
General | Posted 4 years ago“…thank you.” she whispered, sobbing.
“Thank…?” he repeated, thinking that surely, he must have misheard her. But, when the young woman, whose tears were soaking his tunic, nodded her head in affirmation, it left him even more befuddled. “I…I do not understand.” he said, quietly.
Sweetheart shook with emotion. That day, was something she wished to forget, yet her prince thrust the memory upon her, once more. However…
“Thank you, for praying over her.” she said, quietly. “I didn’t leave the hospital for a long time and by the time I was able to even sit up on my own, it had been weeks later…and she and my brothers and sisters had already been lighted. I never got to say, ‘goodbye’ and I was not able to pray for her or any of my siblings, as I should have. Knowing that you did…makes me so happy.”
It was still stunning to him, everything that was unfolding before him. Words would not enter his mind, let alone his tongue.
“I’m grateful,” Sweetheart continued, “that there were people who prayed for her and all of the other lost ones, but you actually loved her and that makes you prayer special. You gave the prayer that I could not and I am grateful to you, most of all.”
Now it was his turn to be moved by emotion. He anticipated an angry scowl or a harsh word of disgust for his actions, but this girl’s response could not have been farther from it. “I…” he said, quietly, “do not know what to say. I should not have felt for her the way that I did. It was disrespectful.”
“My Prince,” she said, pulling away to look into his confused amber eyes, “Mama knew about your love for her.”
“Thank…?” he repeated, thinking that surely, he must have misheard her. But, when the young woman, whose tears were soaking his tunic, nodded her head in affirmation, it left him even more befuddled. “I…I do not understand.” he said, quietly.
Sweetheart shook with emotion. That day, was something she wished to forget, yet her prince thrust the memory upon her, once more. However…
“Thank you, for praying over her.” she said, quietly. “I didn’t leave the hospital for a long time and by the time I was able to even sit up on my own, it had been weeks later…and she and my brothers and sisters had already been lighted. I never got to say, ‘goodbye’ and I was not able to pray for her or any of my siblings, as I should have. Knowing that you did…makes me so happy.”
It was still stunning to him, everything that was unfolding before him. Words would not enter his mind, let alone his tongue.
“I’m grateful,” Sweetheart continued, “that there were people who prayed for her and all of the other lost ones, but you actually loved her and that makes you prayer special. You gave the prayer that I could not and I am grateful to you, most of all.”
Now it was his turn to be moved by emotion. He anticipated an angry scowl or a harsh word of disgust for his actions, but this girl’s response could not have been farther from it. “I…” he said, quietly, “do not know what to say. I should not have felt for her the way that I did. It was disrespectful.”
“My Prince,” she said, pulling away to look into his confused amber eyes, “Mama knew about your love for her.”
✧ PREVIOUS PAGE ✧ FIRST PAGE ✧NEXT PAGE✧Spotlight: Epilogue (Arjuna and Sweetheart pt2)
General | Posted 4 years ago“I…” he said, suddenly, “want to apologize to you. I fear this is something that I must unburden my soul with and you are the only one that can condemn me, if you so choose.”
This sounded terrible. What in the world could the bashful prince have done to make him feel as though he deserved condemnation, HER condemnation. “I don’t understand.” Sweetheart said, finally.
He sighed, a slow, tired, ragged sigh, before speaking, once again. “When I was younger, I had fallen in love with a woman that I did not know was already married, with children, no less. Once I learned that she was married, I avoided her, out of respect to her and her husband. But, the day of the Great Flood, the day she passed away, I came to her body and prayed over her. I know that I did not have the right, but I just had to. But, that woman…was your mother.”
“Mama?” she gasped.
“Yes.” he answered, solemnly.
“You prayed over her?”
“Yes, and I—“ he started to say, when the golden suddenly leapt upon him and wrapped her arms around his startled form. The action was so abrupt and so unexpected, that the prince did not know what to do. “Miss?”
This sounded terrible. What in the world could the bashful prince have done to make him feel as though he deserved condemnation, HER condemnation. “I don’t understand.” Sweetheart said, finally.
He sighed, a slow, tired, ragged sigh, before speaking, once again. “When I was younger, I had fallen in love with a woman that I did not know was already married, with children, no less. Once I learned that she was married, I avoided her, out of respect to her and her husband. But, the day of the Great Flood, the day she passed away, I came to her body and prayed over her. I know that I did not have the right, but I just had to. But, that woman…was your mother.”
“Mama?” she gasped.
“Yes.” he answered, solemnly.
“You prayed over her?”
“Yes, and I—“ he started to say, when the golden suddenly leapt upon him and wrapped her arms around his startled form. The action was so abrupt and so unexpected, that the prince did not know what to do. “Miss?”
✧ PREVIOUS PAGE ✧ FIRST PAGE ✧NEXT PAGE✧Spotlight: Epilogue (Arjuna and Sweetheart pt1)
General | Posted 4 years agoAs fate would have it, time found the Second Prince and the owner of the Sweet Shoppe, crossing paths. The prince had passed by her shoppe, once or twice, but never entered it. He never felt worthy of being in the presence of the daughter of his secret lover, and so, barely allowed himself even a passing glance.
But, one day, the golden queen, along with the other Sweet Shoppe girls, were invited to the palace. This invitation presented the shoppe staff before the royals, making his avoidance of her, no longer possible. Yet, if he was going to be in her presence, he felt the need to make a soul-searching confession to the beautiful girl, that so greatly resembled her angelic mother. Quietly, he asked her to join him on a walk to the rose garden.
The two cats strolled down the flower maze and listened to the sound of crickets chirping as they walk along. She could tell that something was making him uneasy. He had called her out here for a reason and from his demeanor, it suggested that it might be something wrong.
But, one day, the golden queen, along with the other Sweet Shoppe girls, were invited to the palace. This invitation presented the shoppe staff before the royals, making his avoidance of her, no longer possible. Yet, if he was going to be in her presence, he felt the need to make a soul-searching confession to the beautiful girl, that so greatly resembled her angelic mother. Quietly, he asked her to join him on a walk to the rose garden.
The two cats strolled down the flower maze and listened to the sound of crickets chirping as they walk along. She could tell that something was making him uneasy. He had called her out here for a reason and from his demeanor, it suggested that it might be something wrong.
✧ PREVIOUS PAGE ✧ FIRST PAGE ✧NEXT PAGE✧Spotlight: Night (Alder and Arjuna pt5)
General | Posted 4 years agoArjuna nodded, once more, then knelt before the love of his life and prayed for her spirit to find its way to a place of eternal peace and rest. After they prayed, the brothers made their way back to the palace. Arjuna felt a sense of tranquil sadness. He was happy that he was able to pray for her and to see her, one last time, not at a distance, but up close, a view he had never seen her in. Even in death, she was still so beautiful. He was thankful that he was able to revisit her enchantment for the last time, before it was covered and bound and hidden from the world, forever. It was a strange paradox of emotion.
“…hey, Alder?” he whispered.
“Hmm? What’s wrong?” Alder asked.
“I am so tired, but I don’t want to return to my room. The silence is…too much for me, right now. Even though I know that I am not alone…”
Alder patted his hairless head and said, “Do you want to sleep in my room?”
Arjuna nodded and replied, “I would really like that.”
Alder smiled and said, “Good, because Palm is already there.”
Somehow, that bit of information gave the Second Prince a mild sense of merriment and he chuckled, quietly. Likewise, Alder couldn’t help but to find amusement in the placid situation and smiled as he wrapped his arm around his brother’s shoulder. Their spirits just a bit higher, the pair walked with steps a little lighter than before, as they made their way back to the palace, back to their home, back to their family, back to the ones they loved the most.
“…hey, Alder?” he whispered.
“Hmm? What’s wrong?” Alder asked.
“I am so tired, but I don’t want to return to my room. The silence is…too much for me, right now. Even though I know that I am not alone…”
Alder patted his hairless head and said, “Do you want to sleep in my room?”
Arjuna nodded and replied, “I would really like that.”
Alder smiled and said, “Good, because Palm is already there.”
Somehow, that bit of information gave the Second Prince a mild sense of merriment and he chuckled, quietly. Likewise, Alder couldn’t help but to find amusement in the placid situation and smiled as he wrapped his arm around his brother’s shoulder. Their spirits just a bit higher, the pair walked with steps a little lighter than before, as they made their way back to the palace, back to their home, back to their family, back to the ones they loved the most.
✧ PREVIOUS PAGE ✧ FIRST PAGE ✧NEXT PAGE✧