Thank you ^^

Brilliant!

Thank you! >w<

First time I believe we've seen the extent of Henry's predicament and just how far along he is. Mostly.

Flannagan: Looks'a him, guessin' it's a cold night.

Me: I wasn't thinking that!

Flannagan: ...Liar.

Cathal: *strolling up with a wide grin* Not that I would ever condone anything Lady Moth has done, but this is entertaining. Surprising she would give him the courtesy of shorts.

I figure 'courtesy' is the last thing on her mind.

Cathal: *sits and curls his tail around his paws* This is a puzzle. Why bother with the extra spell?

*looks at Cathal...

...What extra spell?

Cathal: The costumes were created via magic. *he tilts his head* It would seem to me that Henry did not need one, and yet there is one.

*snorts* With his curse, yes he did - you try not making up an excuse if you're caught outside naked.

Cathal: *grins* I am usually outside naked. Humans have such strange customs.

Humans get COLD.

Think of it this way, Cathal. Humans don't have fur, and they have a sense of morality that is much akin to the fierce loyalty that you and yours feel towards your causes. That morality includes the need to cover certain parts of the body for decency's sake. One could also say for the sake of attracting a mate, much like how birds or other creatures develop certain coloration, scents, plumage, etc. A certain "image" attracts the ideal mate. The wrong sort will attract negative attention that allows for less than desirable situations to arise.

Cathal: But to make shedding your fur illegal? Why? Birds do not need permission to flash their feathers to whoever they please. Just because something is accepted as moral, you completely and thoroughly outlaw the opposite? Even we fae are permitted our mischief in certain instances.

Yes, but most of the time that mischief, by human standards tends to be scarring on other minds and people, hence why there are laws in place to avoid those problems. I believe the Seelie court has certain laws along the same lines for mortals, do they not?

Cathal: *gives a cheshire-esque grin* Not tonight, my friend. Mortals may play their games, and we may play ours. This little black cat is going to be very unlucky to one soul on this, the Thinning of the Veil. One would think the mortal realm would unclench its fist once or twice during the year.

Trust me, you don't want to see the depravity they're capable of, if they do.

Cathal: *cleaning his whiskers with a paw* Clearly you have not visited the Unseelie realm.

Touche. But you have to admit, humans can be worse in some aspects.

Cathal: Oh, yes. That is why we keep a very close watch.

As do the guardians, I'd imagine.

Cathal: *pulls his paw away from his mouth* Who can tell what the guardians get up to? But you're not wrong. At least the White One cares for the affairs of mortals.

As she should. White is often a color associated with purity, kindness, goodness, light, etc. Granted, that doesn't automatically make it so.

I will agree, going from human to this present guise has been pretty liberating, in many of these regards.

Cathal: *whiskers twitching up in a smile* I thought you might understand.

I do... though I'm not sure that I should, since I can't go back by choice, whereas you can, in shape at least.

Cathal: *he grimaces* I can, but my kind only use the human guise as camouflage. It is an uncomfortable body to inhabit. In that regard I can empathize with your situation.

Acrathia: *Stiffling laughter*

Enedia: *slow clapping with Acrathia*

Moth: *appears and touches a finger to her chin with a smirk* Thank you, thank you. Admittedly, not my best work, but it will do for the night.

Hey! Now you're an all-star!

XD Not sure he's in the mood to get his game on, much less go play >w<

That's his problem, not mine.

Fair point

Louis, you should be thankful it's just a costume in your case.

Louis: *grimaces* Good point.

Damn. ;)

Now we just need the other man to transform into a bearded Shrek. XD

>w<

The night is young. Who knows what might happen XD

The question is, is he covering because he's small down there or because he's getting bigger and is afraid of public indecency charges? *sigh* Poor Henry. Though, when you think about it, it does fit to an extent. As I recall, you are the wisecracking smart aleck of the group who has some difficulty shutting up. *realizes just how badly I'd insulted Henry and blushes guiltily.* Sorry. I kinda tend to speak my mind aloud when I'm thinking to myself. Now all you need is a certain Spanish pussy cat to round out the party. Moth can already play Dragon, who, as I recall, does have a thing for Donkey.

Henry: *ears pinned back* Even if I don't know when to shut up, I'd rather not talk about my nether regions, thanks. And don't give her any ideas. This is bad enough as it is.

I don't know. It looks like Lewis is doing okay. And you won't be stuck that way forever. Why not just enjoy the night?

Henry: *flatly* Could you if you were half-naked knocking on strangers doors?

Hmm. Touche. I could try a glamour, if you prefer. Granted, I'm not sure if Moth would approve.

Henry: *one ear twitches forward* There's an idea...

*A small fairly luminous blue moth lands on your shoulder and crosses its tiny forelegs disapprovingly*

Oh, you know he's got a point, Moth. If you really want him to get you your offerings, you really should allow him to have something to prevent him from getting an indecency charge. That, and maybe someone cute to get the adults to really want to give more candy. Assuming we don't make a contract of it, and you turn me back when I want to be returned to normal, I might be willing to take on the role of Puss to act as the kid of the group. Is that a suitable compromise?

Moth: *telepathically* He's being a wimp. There is nothing there that human law givers should have any complaint about. I even put a dance belt on him. As for making you a cat, darling, I believe that can be arranged.

So, you put him in a skimpy ballet dancer's outfit, which is likely to highlight exactly how donkey-like he's become to any that see him? Moth, come on. That's going to scare almost all the children away, not to mention repel quite a few adults, and/or cause them to chasten him for his "choice" of costume. But yes, the offer stands on playing Puss, if you're really set on it. But as I said, on my terms.

Moth: That's the point darling. I want this to be uncomfortable. To me, that is sweeter than the candy I might receive. *she sighs audibly* Yes, yes, your terms. I know better than to play games with you.

Good. Just make sure to think of the kids at least, though, Moth. Please? *Gives her my best impression of Puss' cute kitten eye gaze*

Moth: You know who my author is, don't you? She would not permit anything so uncouth. This jackass is just overly shy. Now... to business. What are your terms?

As I said, I'm perfectly willing to join your merry troupe here, so long as I am able to turn back when I wish. And no taking away my speech, though I will permit an alteration of voice to mimic the accent and timbre of the character, if you wish. It'd be nice to be able to shift between the small cute puss and a more proper anthropomorphic swordsman with more human proportions than Puss has as well. That way I can be cute for getting the treats and something else when Henry here tries to tease me too much. Oh, and I'd love it if you could join us, too, but that one's up to you.

Moth: Then play the part well, Sir Kitten. I expect all the candy that Henry might lose in his current outfit. As for me, I will keep my vigil in case my Costa wishes to reach out from the other side. Maybe this year. *the moth shudders for a second and becomes a faintly glowing and handsomely wrapped piece of hard candy*

Ooh! Yay! *Unwraps the candy and promptly noms it down. The familiar taste of sweetened cream washes over my mouth and I roll my eyes in pleasure.*

*The magic courses through you immediately. Fur sprouts in a pleasant tingle, paw pads thicken with quick pops, and you shrink into a puddle of your clothes. In mere moments you are a small orange anthropomorphic cat. Should you attempt to slink out of your overlarge clothes, you would find that you are wearing a pair of handsomely crafted leather boots, a belt, and a scabbard complete with a miniature sword*

Henry: *takes a sharp intake of breath reminiscent of the start of a bray* What the hell?

Louis: *going pale* Not you, too. What is your curse?

*I doff my cap to them* No curse, I assure you, gentlemen. I am merely attending to complete your ensemble for the night's revelries and festivities. After all, it is difficult to justify two adults trick or treating without someone to pass off as a child, no? *I proceed to jump with nimble acrobatics, followed by pulling out my new sword.* Fear me, if you dare! I was very strict with Moth as well. She knows not to try to wheedle a binding on me. I promised her some fun treats and to keep an eye on you. It is sad she can't make it, but I am sure we can have plenty of mischief and fun together, the three of us, hmm? Shrek, Puss, and the burro over there. *the cat winks teasingly at Henry.*

Henry: *grumbling* Watch your tail. I can't feel anything under these hooves.

Louis: C'mon, man! This'll be fun. At least it'll be better than the last couple of years, right?

Henry: I'm more naked than the last couple of years. That isn't an improvement.

At least you can still speak, and she didn't force you to have Eddie Murphy's voice. Granted, that would have been funny, if she had. Besides, I'm technically naked, too. *The cat motions to himself* With the exception of my hat, boots, and sword belt, of course.

Henry: *leans down to the cat* You're covered in fur and don't have to wear a dance belt. Let's just get this over with, shall we? *he clops off down the road*

Louis: *smirks* He'll lighten up after a little while, you'll see.

Oh, I have no doubt. I wonder. How long do you think we should wait before I surprise him with the other form Moth gave me for tonight?

Louis: *suddenly very curious* Other form?

Picture me human sized with more hand-like forepaws and a physique befitting a majestic tiger! *The chat chuckles* Did I mention how much I love this accent? It makes everything I say sound so ... exciting.

(XD Seriously, that kind of accent is a rare one that adds dramatic flare to just about any sentence. :P)

(It really is a great one! >w<)

Louis: *a mischievous smile pulls up the corners of his mustache* A tiger, huh? *crouches to better conspire with the small cat form, all the while keeping an eye on Henry* I'm not really the pranking type, but Henry's been really passive aggressive lately and I wouldn't mind seeing it bite him in the rear just once. He doesn't scream anymore when he's scared. He brays. So, if you see that there's a good opportunity to surprise him and maybe add to the fun of his "costume", I'll back you up.

Henry: *turning, still attempting to cover up and looking very uncomfortable* Are you coming or what? I know you like animals, buddy, but he's not really a cat.

Louis: *straightening and shrugging* I can't help, it man. He's a cat with boots and a little hat on! He's like a living cute cat video.

Henry: *sighs, irritated* Please don't make this night longer than it has to be.

Careful, Henry. Moth might hear you and try her hand at temporal magic. That's treading on the territory of the gods, but you know how she can be when she wants something.

Besides, I can get us a boatload of candy this way, especially if I happen to have all of Puss' charms. Don't you have a favorite kind of treat you'd like to keep for yourself?

Henry: *grows nervous at the notion of temporal magic* Right... uh... forget I said anything. *raises an incredulous eyebrow* Surely you don't really think she'd share this haul with us. I'm not risking any more of my human parts for a piece of candy.

Louis: *murmuring* He likes Snickers.

*The cat's ears twitch and he smirks* Which ones? The laughter or the bars?

Louis: *his mouth quirks as he suppresses a chuckle* Depends on what we're laughing at.

Henry: *rolls his eyes and keeps walking*

Oh, come now, Henry. Lighten up. It is Halloween! All Hallow's Eve! The time to revel and laugh with your comrades in arms and mingle with those souls, entities, and loved ones long since past. The veil between worlds is thin this night, and anything can happen. Perhaps you may even find some unexpected aid. And if you do, well, I'm not bound to tell Moth, now am I? And I'm fairly certain her little watch moth's magic was used to give me my gift for the night. Never let it be said that Puss does not look out for his friends, even when they are fighting.

Henry: I've never liked Halloween. Right Louis? Now, thanks to her, I like it less.

Louis: *adjusting his vest as they turn down a walkway toward someone's door* C'mon, man. That was over a decade ago! Nobody remembers it but you, well, and me because you keep bringing it up. Just let it go.

Henry: *taps on the door with a hoof* Places, Puss.

We shall see what happens, my friend. *The cat walks with his sack in front of the pair. Then he smiled and prepared for the act of his life. As they rang the doorbell, he held out his sack and immediately felt a change as his eyes widened cartoonishly and he unleashed the devastation that was the kitten stare. Then he mewled*

*an elderly woman who hasn't bothered with a costume opens the door and immediately coos at the adorable cat* Heavens! That must be one of the best costumes I've seen tonight! *she places a generous handful of hard candies into the sack and then looks around at the other costumes* And an ogre and... oh, my. Aren't you cold?

Henry: *avoiding eye contact* Yeah... I'm regretting a lot of choices right now.

Woman: *waves a wrinkled hand* But you got into the spirit anyhow! Now, that deserves some candy. *she gives a noticeably smaller handful to Henry and Louis*

Louis: Thank you! You have a nice night.

Woman: *grins a fairly toothless grin* Happy Halloween, boys. Try to stay warm! *closes the door*

"And so it begins."

Louis: *looking into the pillowcase that is serving to hold his candy collection* That went really well.

Henry: *still vaguely uncomfortable* Let's hope they're all half-blind old ladies.

"You know they won't be, Henry. If you want to be a downer, then try to think of this as a form of pennance. I'm sure Lottie would find it hilarious. Then again, maybe she wouldn't. She doesn't strike me as the type to enjoy torture. My guess is she'd feel an initial thrill at your embarrassment, then shame over that thrill, since you're technically being tortured. But as I said before, keep a sharp eye out. Or ear out in your case. You never know what you might find and who you might meet by chance." ;)

Henry: *eyes trained on the next house on the street* Right... I'll try.

Louis: *adjusting his ogre-ear headband* Are you expecting someone?

Let's just say that I have a hunch. And there are often times where those hunches prove correct. Of course, there are also often times they prove dead wrong. Since I'm not experiencing any vision or prophetic confirmation, this is really just more of a feeling. Hence, the hunch.

*A mother and her Spiderman-suited toddler pass the group going the opposite direction. The toddler, entertained by Henry's "costume", yanks on his tail*

Henry: Hnn! *instinctively lifts a hoof to kick out at the source of the pain, but lowers it again and steadies his breathing* Happy Halloween.

Mother: *pulling her son away* Jaden! No pulling on other people's costumes! I'm really very sorry.

Louis: *wincing sympathetically* Let's hope you're right. That isn't going to improve his mood.

*The little Spiderman giggles at Louis' appearance and then reaches a sticky hand out to pet the fur of your "costume*

Mother: *sternly* Jaden, ask if you can touch.

Jaden: *voice slightly obscured by his mask* Pet the kitty?

Um, Escuse, Senora, but would you happen to have something to clean the ninos' hands first? It is ... difficult to deal with the fur when it is matted, you understand.

Mother: Oh! Yes... um... *she digs through her purse for hand wipes and cleans his hands* There.

Jaden: Nice kitty! *proceeds to pet the top of your head with all the delicacy and grace a toddler can muster*

*The kitty looks at Henry's smirk and frowns, even as he struggles not to rub his head against the toddler's hand. All the same, a light purr does escape his throat, despite his best efforts*

Henry: *raises a triumphant eyebrow*

Jaden: *stops petting when he sees a fairly impressive Hulk costume just down the road* Mommy, look! *he tugs her toward the Hulk*

Mother: *rolling her eyes with a smile* Thank you for taking the time. Happy Halloween!

Louis: *has his hands pressed together in front of his chin with a giant smile on his face* That was too adorable. I know better than to pet magical animals, but now I really, really want to. *suddenly self conscious* Did that come off weird? That came off weird...

Henry: *nods* Yup. Weird.

Louis: *blushing* Ugh. Sorry.

Well, I've heard of weirder. If you really want to, I think I know of a Unicorn that might not mind too much. Then again, I might be persuaded as well, though if you do, I'd prefer you keep it near my head. I doubt feeling it down my back would feel quite so comfortable. As for you, Henry, perhaps this Halloween doesn't feel quite so difficult to endure now, hmm?

Louis: *uncomfortably shrugging* No, no, it's okay... wait... *the conversation sinks in* there are unicorns, too? I guess it shouldn't be all that hard to believe, but, man. The world is turning out to be much cooler than I thought.

Henry: *begrudgingly* Maybe not. I still wish I had more clothes on, though.

Ah. There, I am afraid I cannot help you, my friend. Though if you really are so upset about it, why not stop by a Walmart and pick up a shirt and some pants?

Henry: *frowns and raises an eyebrow*

Louis: Moth set out some rules for tonight. No altering costumes was one of them.

Henry: Might as well keep going. *He leads the way down the sidewalk to the next house. to his chagrin, from the look of the lights flashing through the windows and the throbbing bass, it's a party. He pokes the doorbell with a hoof*

Louis: *grimacing* And no skipping houses was another.

Perhaps I should take the lead again, then. Otherwise, they may confuse you for a stripper.

Henry: *snorts unhappily* Good point.

The cat frowns. "Henry, whatever you do, don't let the party goers get near you. I get the feeling they're going to be compelled to try to offer you a drink, and possibly spill it on you or make you have contact in some other way. Your curse may well be different from Candle's, but for all we know, given the role you're being forced to play, alcohol could make you shift the same way a lie would. Louis, make sure to guard Henry, if that should come to pass. Of course, this is a worst case scenario, but better to be safe than to be sorry." *the cat then promptly clears his throat as an annoying tickle pricks deep within.* "Let's go."

Louis: *careful to position himself between Henry and the cat as they travel up the walkway* We've got your back, man. Just stay calm and... maybe don't say anything? You know, just to be safe.

Henry: You know, I'm not totally hopeless when it comes to speaking.

Louis: *lifts a concerned eyebrow*

Henry: *scowls* Fine, you're probably right.

Before anyone can knock on the door, a thoroughly drunk college kid dressed in a toga throws it open and stumbles out. He pushes his overlong hair out of his eyes and regards the group with a huge smile.

Toga: Dude! You're all from Shrek! I love that movie. *he turns to call above the throbbing music to his friends inside* You've gotta come check these costumes out, guys!

A couple of curious partygoers, one male and one female, make their way to the door. The male is a hulking tanned jock who is dressed as Thor and, rather appropriately, clutching a stein of beer. The female is a blonde dressed in a somewhat skimpy version of a nurse's uniform, complete with a cap and stethoscope.

Nurse: *claps her hands and squeals at the cat in boots* Oh, you are so cute! *alcohol having negated any sense of personal space completely, she bends down and pinches a whiskered cheek* So, so cute! Yes you are, yes you are!

Thor: *raising a bleary eyebrow in Henry's direction* That's actually a pretty good costume. It almost looks real. Where'd you get it?

Louis: He, uh, he had it custom made. Pretty cool, right?

Thor: *scoffs* Sure, I guess. If you're on your way to a bachelorette party or something. *he nudges Toga before disappearing back into the house* Don't go cheap on the beer this time.

Toga: Sure, sure. *returning his attention to the trick or treaters* Anyway, you want candy, right? Sorry, dudes. We don't have any. But... uh... y'know what, hold on. *he goes back into the house*

Nurse: *having thoroughly admired the adorable cat, completely ignores Louis and moves on to Henry* You know, it's not my bachelorette party, but you can still entertain me if you want. *she touches one of his ears and when it moves on its own accord, she shrieks* How... how did you do that?

Henry: I... uh... *looks to the others for help*

The puss smirks confidently at the nurse. "Magic, of course." Then he winked at her. "Señorita, if it is not too much trouble, my friend would prefer if you didn't. He is a married man. Due to extenuating circumstances, his wife was unable to join us for our night of frivolity. Otherwise, you may have met a dragoness to pair with his donkey. Though I am sure he is quite flattered."

Nurse: *pouting and maintaining eye contact with Henry while she speaks* But what she doesn't know can't hurt her, can it? Come on. *she tugs on one of his hooves*

Henry: *draws back* I made that mistake once, and I'm not doing it again. Why don't you go ask Thor for "entertainment"?

Nurse: *sulking* Fine. Enjoy your boring Halloween. *she makes her way back inside just as Toga returns*

Toga: Hey! You're lucky. This is all that's left. *he puts a greasy slice of pizza into each trick or treat bag* Happy Halloween, guys! *he staggers across the lawn and down the sidewalk in search of more beer*

Louis: *looking into his bag at the slice of pizza* Well, that went better than I expected.

Though it would have been better, had he bagged them. *the cat scowls in distaste* It will ruin the bags and the candy both.

Henry: *shrugs* Well, it's her fault for insisting we go to every house. Not like it's our candy, anyway.

Louis: *uneasily as the group makes its way back to the sidewalk* We'd better find a way of wrapping them, though. If she gets upset about ruined candy, who knows what shape we'll spend tomorrow in.

A fair point, indeed. Perhaps we can ask someone at their next home if they might have a bag handy.

Louis: Good idea. *He turns up the next walkway, which leads to a decidedly un-festive house. The porch light is turned off, there isn't a decoration in sight, and only a dim glow from what might be the living room can be seen*

Henry: *positions himself so he's halfway concealed by Louis* Want to turn on the charm with this one, Puss?

The charms may not always work, amigo, but we will see what we will see. Be ready for anything. *the cat takes the lead with his reflexes tensed and at the ready*

Louis: *rings the doorbell*

The house remains silent save for the dull noise of a television playing.

Henry: *eager to leave* Well, we tried. Let's go.

The door suddenly opens a sliver and an eye covered in a milky cataract peers out.

Annoyed Old Man: I don't have any candy. Can't you see my porch light is off?

The cat looked helplessly up at Louis. He may have looked like a kid for now, but the moment he spoke, that point would be moot. Instead, he held up his slice of pizza and made his eyes big and watery, then sniffled for added effect. (XD Even that would be pushing it for me, truth be told, but it does give the impression of a little kid sad at what had just happened. I'm sure Louis can fill in the rest for me.)

Louis: *catching on* Oh... uh... we're really sorry to disturb you, sir, but my-my little brother is very upset. The drunk college kids next door gave us pizza of all things, and he's worried that all the cheese and grease will ruin his candy. Would you happen to have any plastic baggies or something we could wrap the pizza in?

Annoyed Old Man: *scrutinizing the group and softening slightly at the sad eyes of the apparent little boy* Fine, fine. *his eye falling on Henry* But get your half-naked rabbit off of my lawn! *grumbling as he shuffles off to retrieve the bags* Really, people have no decency anymore...

Henry: *raising one ear* Well, rabbit's better than jackass.

"And apparently you feel honest about that," the cat murmured to avoid being heard by the old man.

Henry: *retreating to the sidewalk as per the old man's request* Wouldn't you? Being called a jackass isn't really a compliment.

Annoyed Old Man: *holds out the plastic baggies to the cat with a quaking hand* There. Now you don't need to worry, little man. Though, you really should be more mindful about who you spend time with. *he shoots a venomous glare at Henry* There are bad influences all around.

Louis: *uncomfortably* You have saved our night, sir. Thank you. We won't take up any more of your time.

Annoyed Old Man: *slips a couple of sugar-free chocolates into the cat's bag while staring Louis down* See that you don't. *slams the door*

When the trio had rejoined at the edge of the property, the cat allowed himself to speak again. "She enjoys making you have to face judgement, doesn't she?"

Henry: *ears swiveling backward* Yes. The more humiliating, the better.

Louis: *mumbling under his breath* Probably because she felt humiliated.

Henry: *points to an ear with a hoof* These aren't just for show, you know.

Louis: *holds up his hands* I didn't mean anything by it, man, I'm just trying to figure it all out so we can find a way to fix it.

Henry: *softening a little* Yeah, I know, I know. *holds up a hoof and Louis fist bumps it* C'mon, let's keep moving.

By gentle deeds and noble steeds our quest shall soon be done. And then hoho, what fun we'll have till rising morning sun. *the cat proceeded to do a little jig as he walked along.* Fear not, my friends. I've a feeling things will turn out all right in the end, though perhaps not in the way you might expect.

Louis: *bagging the pizza as they walk* One can hope. *he grins*

*The group crosses a street and enters into an apartment complex. Henry knocks on the first door they come to and no answer comes. After a few more tries there is still no answer, so they move to the next apartment. A blonde woman with a mousy brown undercut adjusts her viking warrior costume and meets the group with a smile. A platter of ornately wrapped orange and purple cupcakes is balanced against one hip.*

Juni: *eyes wide as she admires each costume* Wow! Color me impressed! Okay, okay, humor me for a second. I'll give you two cupcakes each if you say "trick-or-treat" in your character's voice.

Louis: *laughs nervously* I dunno...

Juni: *draws an x over her heart with a finger* I promise I won't laugh. I just want to see you try.

*The cat smirks* "Trick or treat, señorita. And might I add, you strike a most imposing figure in that costume, a perfect blend of beauty, grace, and power. But this humble warrior wonders if this viking fights alone or with her clan.

Juni: Oooh! Impressive! Bravo! *she carefully sets two cupcakes into the bag* And thank you for your very kind words. Sadly, this little viking is all by herself. I just moved here a couple of months ago and don't know too many people. But it's always nice to make new friends. Your turn, Shrek!

Louis: Uhh... *in his best faltering Scottish brogue* Ogres are like onions.

Juni: *beams* I love it! *she doles out the cupcakes* And Donkey?

Henry: *ears falling* I don't have the first idea of how to sound like Eddie Murphy...

Louis: *murmuring* Maybe you can mimic another part of how Donkey sounds?

Henry: *scowls* I'm not doing that.

You could always talk about parfaits.

Henry: *sighs and says flatly* Everybody likes parfaits.

Juni: *raises an eyebrow* What, are you embodying Eeyore? C'mon, I know you can do better than that.

Louis: *mutters* Forgive me, man. *pinches Henry*

Henry: HAA-AAAWWW! *whirls to glare at Louis* What the hell?

Juni: *eyes wide* Whaaat? That was great! Here, as promised. *she leans out the door to deposit the cupcakes and ruffles the feather on Puss' cap* Awesome costumes, guys. Come see me at Bartlett's sometime! Friends get discounts.

That sounds like fun! My thanks, Señorita. And know that you'll be meeting a very special friend very soon. Take good care of him.

Juni: *a little confused* I... um... okay, I'll keep my eyes open for him, then. Happy Halloween! *she gives one last smile and closes the door*

Henry: *grumpily* Was the pinching really necessary?

Louis: The more we bring her, the better, right? Maybe she'll leave us alone for a while if we bite the bullet and embarrass ourselves a little tonight.

Henry: *ears pinned back* Says the guy who doesn't have to do tricks like a trained animal.

Louis: *sighs, tired of arguing, and knocks on the next door*

The door creaks open to reveal a retirement-aged couple dressed as Frankenstein's Monster and the Bride of Frankenstein. The husband groans theatrically with his hands outstretched and the wife giggles at him.

Bride: Oh, Lawrence, cut it out, you'll scare the little one.

The cat smiled and raised his bag up to the kindly woman, then mewled cutely.

Bride: You are absolutely adorable! *she puts a handful of candy into the bag*

Lawrence: *smiles at the costumed trick-or-treaters until his gaze reaches Henry* Huh. Interesting costume.

Henry: *ears falling* Yeah... I made some pretty bad decisions leading up to tonight.

Lawrence: *shrugs a little* At least it's a quality one... if a little ill-advised.

Bride: *putting candy in the remaining bags* Oh, it's all in good fun, Lawrence. Just try to stay warm, dear. Don't want you waking up tomorrow feeling a little hoarse.

Henry: *allowing himself a small smile, not realizing his tail is swishing* Horse, donkey... close enough.

Louis: *grins at the cat*

The cat winks back.

*Flannagan, bursting out laughing while I wince in embarrassment...

Finally, some feller that speaks 'is mind flat out and isn't talking euphemisms!

It's ... kinda how I am. *Blushes* Honesty is my best trait.

^w^

Oh, cheer up Louis. You get to be the good guy this year.

i think than henry its kind a foxy

>w<

Lassiate: *A large parade comes around the corner. The are all wearing costumes and mask that look to be suited for a masquerade ball. A lavishly decorated carriage approaches, the footmen stand in place expecting Lassiate to burst out at any moment. He calls out to them.* Must I open the door myself!!??* The door men dush to open the door when Lassiate bursts out knocking them down* I swear I must do everything myself! *Looks to Henry* Ah!!! and there he is!!! The one who is the star of this little drama in the Sidhe!!! We are in the presence of Henry himself!!! *The parade cheers. Lassiate looks to Loius* And look its...YOU!!! With the beard... and the face...YOU!!! *The parade cheers*

Henry: *ears falling he murmurs to Louis* Oh, hell, what is this? I bet you anything Moth is behind it. It'd be just like her to make tonight harder.

Louis: Then we'd better play her game, right? *uneasily waving* I'm Louis... nice to meet you, sir.

Henry: Did you, uh, did you come all this way for us?

Lassiate: *put his hand to his forehead in an overly dramatic way* Ah!!! Acrathia has wounded me yet again!!! Failing to mention the glory that is her older brother!!! One can hardly blame her though, she has sadly always lived in my shadow! For who could possibly compete with the magnificence that is Lassiate The Phoenix King!!! * the parade is silent* Well?! *The parade starts cheering*

Henry: *his mouth just hangs open at the utter strangeness of Acrathia's brother*

Louis: *worriedly cheers along with the parade* I had no idea we were meeting the Phoenix King... Uh... *he gets to one knee and bows uncertainly*

Henry: *once his brain catches up, he bows his head briefly* Wow, uh, your Highness, I had no idea you would visit us tonight! *he gestures to himself* Sorry about the getup. Do you like trick-or-treating?

Lassiate: *His tone turns flirtatious he lifts Henry's chin to meet his gaze* Dearest Henry, with that outfit you would fit right in at my court....*resumes his normal tone* Arise Henry and Louis!!! Alas no!!! Samhain is more a holiday that Dearest Imoldra and Dearest Acrathia partake in, with the ghastly Wild Hunt going on!!! I enjoy Samhain for the parties!!! I am thinking I will hold a masquerade ball!!! *Gasps* You two must join us!!!

Henry: *pales* That's a very generous offer, your highness... um...

Louis: *poking his two index fingers together uneasily* We sort of have a deal with Lady Moth about Samhain... we have to collect offerings for her all night. But-but we would love to join you sometime!

Henry: *under his breath* Cool it...

Lassiate: Oh silly me!!! You two already have plans!!! That is such a shame!!! You two would have been undoubtedly the highlight of the party!!!... Aside from me of course! Everyone is just buzzing about your little quest for redemption!!! and I just could not bare it if another hosted you at a party before I did, and I REFUSE TO BE UPSTAGED!!!!!!!*Looks smolderingly at Louis* But you did promise me that the two of you would attend one in the future! And I will hold you to that!

Henry: Wait a minute... just how many people know about all of this? *he illustrates by twitching his ears*

Louis: Of-of course we'll be there, your Highness!

Henry: *glares silently at Louis*

Lassiate: Why everyone who's anyone!!! You're all anyone talks about in the sidhe!!! *With a still very cheerful voice* The way you so callously cheated on your wife!!! How you're literally becoming an ass!!! How you and a group of plucky misfits are going to save Charlotte from the horrible horrible danger you subjected her to!!! It's all so much fun!!!

Henry: Now, hold on, I wasn't the only one who was callous-

Louis: *putting a restraining hand on his shoulder* Maybe not here, man.

Henry: *flinging his arms wide and pinning his ears back* Why not? My private life is apparently an open book to everyone anyway! Nobody's heard my side of the story yet. I'm tired of not being able to say what's on my mind!

Louis: That's exactly why you should be careful what you're saying!

Henry: *to Lassiate* Does everyone know that Charlotte was a workaholic? Hm? Do they know that she was shutting me out and I was starved for some kind of attention?

Lassiate: * Gasps, and becomes oddly quiet for him* ...and there it is... Henry standing up for himself... * He approaches Henry and hugs him in a comforting manner* You made a mistake...One could argue that you hold most of the blame...but you dont deserve it all... *Looks Henry hard in the eye* loneliness drives people to do things they regret... You never could have seen things ending up like this... * reaches out and touches Henry's chest as though examining a wound that cannot be seen* You have been burned so badly... The pain is so great... but you too will rise from the ashes...and you will soar higher than you ever imagined...

Henry: *Stiffens uncomfortably at the contact, but does not move away. He watches Lassiate with a look of mingled confusion and comfort. Finally, he speaks quietly* Do you really think so?

Louis: *plucks at his beard, dumbfounded*

Lassiate: * becoming slightly more animated, but still remaining overall comforting* Oh Henry! You poor blind fool! Don't you see?! You're already rising! You're fighting to make things better than they were! Continue fighting and you will soon burst from the ashes!!! and rise like the radiant dawn!!!

Louis: *smiling* I'm glad you stopped by, your Highness.

Henry: *becoming more visibly uncomfortable now that Lassiate is gesturing more freely* I'll do my best.

Lassiate: Oh Henry don't you see what this means?! You've received blessings from two out of the three of us!!! You managed to get past Acrathia's misandry, and me well I already knew I liked you! and just wanted to see you stand up for yourself! If you could get the blessing of Imoldra... *face turns pale as he thinks about it* Oh but you probably don't want to even try to get his blessing...

Henry: *ears swiveling back in unease* What, is he dangerous?

Lassiate: Oh if he likes you then he is as gentle as a puppy!!!... But yo be perfectly frank, I don't think he will like you... He has a rather stringent code of honor, where loyalty is a cardinal virtue and betrayal is a cardinal sin, he also favors hard work and determination... so by his eyes you would have betrayed someone who is hard working so...

Henry: That's... not very encouraging. *he thinks about it with knitted brows* But I really should try.

Louis: *worriedly* Maybe asking for Lady Azura's help would be a good idea, man.

Henry: *pawing with a hoof* Do you really think she'd let me try anything that wasn't her idea?

Louis: Well... no. Let me come with you, then.

Lassiate: *smiling silently to himself, pleased to see he planted the idea* The one whose help you should be asking for is Acrathia's. She and that old dog get along so well, she might be convinced to arrange an introduction. * Claps his hands together in conclusion* Well I have certainly given you alot to consider!!! And if memory serves, you have a task to complete this night!!! I will leave you two to it!!! *looks smolderingly at the two of them* I will be sure that Louis keeps his promise, and make certain that the two of you attend a party of mine in the future... Toodles for now!!! * He and the parade vanish in a flurry of multicolored feathers*

I wonder if that Shrek needs a Fiona.

He is attempting to get a date with a girl from work... perhaps there's some potential there