Hey y'all! Back at it again with a special, long one shot! This one sure took a while to make, and after days of writing and procrastinating just to spend my time in the world of SSBU, I finally managed to get this one done! Finally a break from City of Light for once!
This one is a little longer than any of my other one shots, so be ready for that. Grab some popcorn or hot chocolate or something, because tis the season to be jolly, and I'm celebrating with a special Splatoon fanfic! ;)
I was gonna make some sort of Christmas fanfic last year, and even the year before, but I didn't get to them and never got a chance to release them. And they were different than what this one is about to be.
Yes, 2020 was a... tough year for all of us. COVID, and much more. However, there are some good things that I consider to be good for this year. We recently got a vaccine that is 95% effective, and we're prepared to have a better year with all these other news going on.
And for me, I turned 18 about four months ago, graduated high school, and I got a sweet laptop, a monitor, along with a gaming keyboard and mouse!
Oh, by the way, let's not ignore the fact that maybe sometime around the start of January (or mid January), I will start streaming on Twitch if I get some equipment for Christmas.
Now, how epic is THAT? :0
But enough of that! Let's get right into this fanfic and see how all characters (except Jenny) are doing. I hope you enjoy! :D
When it comes to Squidmas, everyone is always in the holiday spirit. And Inkopolis Square sure is looking festive today. Everyone in the entire city was already hyped enough for the holidays, ready for what is about to arrive.
It was snowing currently. Not too much, but some snow that is enough for everyone to still be participating in Turf War battles and all of that. It was very cloudy, however, to cover up the sun that is usually shining down to display the scenery in a sweet image.
Inklings and Octolings were bundled up in thick coats, boots, and a comfy hat and scarf (the last two being optional for some). And they were still going about their day as usual, not letting the frigid weather get to them. Some were still talking, battling, and exploring with ease.
And while that was going on, others were either doing some last-minute Squidmas shopping, or visiting their friends and family for the holiday season. In and out of shops, with all of them becoming more busy and crowded then ever.
As mentioned earlier when everyone was still participating in their lovely battles... no one was an exception.
Redd was currently hanging out with his best friends: Joel, David, and Sonic. They all sported a thick zippered hoodie that matched their ink colors, along with long pants to keep them warm from the cold weather. Joel and David wore comfy winter hats, while Redd still had his Squidvader Cap, and Sonic leaving his headphones at home.
They smiled as they observed the yearly look of Inkopolis Square. Festive decorations covering buildings and doors, beautiful snow, and a huge Squidmas Tree (geez, that sounds weird to say, not gonna lie) in the middle, with lots of ribbons, ornaments, and lights brighten up.
"Wow," Redd said in awe, "I gotta say, I love how this city prepares for festive occasions like this. I love this a whole lot. It's beautiful."
"You got that right!" David cheered as he places his hands in his coat pockets, still being happy as ever.
"Ooh, I can't wait for Squidmas!" Sonic giggled, "I always get all giddy for excitement every year! It's the one holiday I enjoy a whole lot! And it sure is worth it, too!"
"I agree, Sonic. Squidmas is more than just a holiday, though," Redd replied, "It's the season of giving, after all! The day where we all get together, enjoy food, open presents, and most importantly, hanging out with friends and family!"
"Mm hmm! My parents are out for now, so I'm taking this time to hang out with you guys." Sonic said.
"Well, I'm glad you took the opportunity, Sonic! Cuz you're one cool dude!" David complimented, excited as ever.
"We're all done with Squidmas decorating by now, so it's best we take this time for some lovely Turf War battles." Joel suggested.
"Yes we shall, Joel," Redd agreed, "It's best not to play any Ranked battles. Two reasons in particular. One: we're not the same rank. And two: I wouldn't want any losing streaks or rank drops during this lovely holiday. No siree!"
Everyone gave off a chuckle after Redd's statement. This even goes for the Squid Bits lead singer himself, laughing at his own statement.
"I see where you're coming from, Redd." Joel said.
"So, what are the stages we got for today?" Sonic questioned. Joel quickly took out his squid phone, and opened up SplatNet 2 to view what stages are in today's rotation.
"The stages that'll stay until the next hour are Wahoo World, and The Reef," Joel answered, "And I know we're not doing Ranked, but the mode is Clam Blitz, with the stages being Starfish Mainstage, and Piranha Pit."
"Well, thank cod we truly didn't want to do Ranked. Redd hates Clam Blitz." David pointed out.
"Yeah... I sure do." Redd agreed with a smirk plastered across his face. Sonic shrugs, while Joel smiles and David turns towards the tower that was only a couple feet away from them.
"Anyways, now that we're out of that topic, why don't we head into the tower and start some battles?" The cyan Inkling asked as the rest of the boys turn to face him.
"You got it, gang! Let's go, boys! Let's start taking some Turf!" Redd cheered. The other three shouted out "Booyah!" as they raised their fists in the air. And they all walked together towards Deca Tower to get into their first match for today.
Hoping that at least they'll be on the same team.
*scene: The Reef*
The cloudy skies mixed in with the gentle snowfall was one absolutely must see if one were to every go into a squad for some sweet, sweet battles. The two teams were set up on the opposite sides, and were ready to start.
The teams were green and pink. On the pink team was the boy squad themselves. Redd had his trusty Neo Splash-o-matic, Joel held onto his Dualie Squelchers, David had the regular Splat Dualies, and Sonic has the Bloblobber instead of his usual Dark Tetra Dualies.
Redd took note of this, and he just shows his happy grin that he always carries around.
"So, you're using the Bloblobber for this round, huh?" He asked.
"Just a little break from the Dualies, Redd. I'm up to using this weapon for a bit." Sonic replied as he turns to his best friend, sharing almost the same exact smile.
"Heh, maybe next round, I'll use the N-Zap '89. Can't go a day into Turf War and Ranked without spreading some Tenta Missiles." Redd teased.
"I'd love to see that, Redd. And I can join in on you for that." Joel agreed, twirling his Squelchers. The opposite team emerged from their spawn, and everyone got into an about-to-run pose.
The timer slowly went down.
Ready...
GO!
The buzzer blared out, and everyone started inking and moving their way up. Redd was immediately the one to start inking the spawn, while the others were taking more ground up ahead. Every blank spot that the others missed, Redd was quick to help cover that to help their team's score rise.
And on the middle, ink was splashing everywhere. The snow had no effect on the ink at all, and everything was still flowing smoothly. Each of the two teams tried to get the upper hand, but it sure has no easy task, and they weren't making it easy for the others.
Joel was high up getting people from up above. He manages to splat one of the opposing team member, who was wielding a Flingza Roller. And after a little more ink spreading, he gets his special ready, activating the Tenta Missiles, and unleashing them on two of the other team members.
David was going more offensive for his round. His dodge rolling skills were decent, but he was doing good by hiding in his ink, and swimming away before getting splatted.
"Aha!" He would then emerge from his ink once someone got closer to him, and then he shoots from his Dualies within a matter of seconds. But unfortunately, David had the tables turn on him, and he was the one who got splatted instead, even though the opponent was using a Splattershot Pro.
It took five seconds for David to respawn, and he quickly shook his head, ignoring going in depth what happened.
"Okay, back into it!" He exclaimed. Then he proceeds to turn into his squid form and super jump to one of his teammates, who would be waiting for him.
Redd and Sonic were together for the time being. Redd already had his special ready, due to his unique turfing skills, and his gear quickly getting his special to charge up faster than its normal speed.
The red Inkling starts up the Suction Bomb Launcher, and starts shooting out a bunch of Suction Bombs all around, forcing the other team to push away from the amount of ink spreading from each of the bombs' explosive radius.
Meanwhile, Sonic was defending by keeping everyone away with the dangerous bubbles of the Bloblobber. Another Inkling using a L-3 Nozzlenose tried to get Sonic, and the blue Inkling was almost splatted, but he managed to splat him back with the Bloblobber's big amount of damage.
Sonic smiled as the Nozzlenose user was gonna respawn back a few seconds from now.
"So, you excited for Christmas, Redd?" Sonic asked.
"Oh, you betcha! Got your list ready? All decorations put up? To celebrate how this holiday season is supposed to be spent?" Redd reminds as he looks at his blue friend.
"Everything's all ready. And I bet you're all happy and prepared, too." Sonic chuckled. Redd puts the Bomb Launcher away and holds onto his signature weapon.
"Ah, I love Squidmas. It's my favorite holiday, to be honest." Redd responded. He continues to spray some more pink ink around, along with throwing a Burst Bomb every once in a while.
Redd was about to respond back, but one of the other team members, who had a Splattershot, managed to find Redd and try to splat him.
"Carp!" The Squid Bits singer yelped as he tried to fight back. He jumped around, shooting from his own weapon. Sonic took quick note and joined Redd in on trying to help him out.
Luckily, with both Redd and Sonic after this guy, he got splatted within seconds. Redd retreated into his ink to heal up from the damage that the other person caused.
"You okay there, Redd?" Sonic questioned. Shortly after, Redd emerged from his ink, threw a Burst Bomb at another blank spot that seemed more open to him, then smiles as he looks back at his friend.
"Yeah, I'm good. Thanks for the help there." He thanked.
"Any time, Redd. Friends like us gotta stick up for each other." Sonic chuckled.
"Dang right we do," Redd agreed, "Now, let's go claim some more turf during these last two minutes."
Sonic nods in agreement, and the two decided to go their separate ways for the remainder of this match. Redd was going all out, and Sonic found his own way to start inking more of the solid ground that has been left behind.
As Redd continues to become focused into this heart-pounding match, he couldn't help but think about how wonderful this year's Squidmas is gonna be.
Everything. Everything leading up to this point. Wonderful snow, festive Inkopolis Square, and to top it all off, a snowy match during Turf War. Granted, it may not be as festive and great as much as the Family vs Friends Splatfest, but it still looked very good.
"Hm, I wonder what the others are doing for Squidmas. I bet they're all ready getting everything set up." Redd thought. A yell of "This Way!" from one of his friends, and Redd immediately looked at the direction that the sound was coming from.
He inks a straight path from his Neo Splash, and swims in his ink in squid form, and he would keep on doing that so he can reach his friends in order to help him out.
*scene: Deepsea Metro*
"So, is that why you have all of that thick clothing on you?" C.Q. Cumber asked to the Octoling in front of him. This Octoling was none other than Caleb, who nodded at the sea slug's question.
"It's all bought from my friends in the real promised land. They fit me like a glove." The eighth Agent responded.
He recently decided to visit how the Deepsea Metro was doing, and what their plans were for this jolly holiday. Things down there were still dark and gloomy as usual. Tartar hasn't been back there since his first defeat in the NILS Statue, and no one sees a potential return anytime soon.
C.Q. was still working hard as ever, being the conductor of the Metro's train, after all. Now that it's truly a mode of transportation, the tests that Caleb had to go through weren't as popular anymore.
But what else could possibly be near the Metro is this was all Tartar's doing in the first place? The world may never know.
As soon as Caleb arrived, C.Q. Cumber was the first person he decided to talk to upon entering the train. Caleb didn't have his Agent outfit, nor the yellow bands he had on his legs. Instead, he had a long sleeve blue coat with gray sleeves. He also had a blue hat that covered most of his hair, but the tip of his mohawk can still be seen. He also had purple boots on.
"I could bring you to the surface, if you'd like. It's beautiful up there, no matter the weather and condition!" Caleb offered.
"I'd love to, Number 10,008, but I'm afraid I'm going to have to decline your offer." C.Q. sighed.
"But why not?" Caleb asked, growing a sad look on his face.
"I'm gonna have to be here to run this train," C.Q. replied, "And unfortunately, I didn't have time to find any replacements any time soon. But you know what matters to me the most?"
He slithered over to the Octoling.
"What matters is that you gained your freedom. And not what the true intentions were," C.Q. chuckled, "You are the first ever to truly reach the promised land, and telling me the truth once you came back made me realize. So now I'll have to regrow Kamabo into something bigger and better."
"But C.Q..." Caleb still talked in a sad tone.
"I'll be fine, 10,008. You keep on enjoying your new life. This is my job, after all. I musn't leave it." C.Q. assured, waving one of long arms slowly, hoping he can tell Caleb to relax.
As a response, the pink Agent just sighed, and shows a small smile.
"Right. I may have not regained all my memories, but that doesn't mean I have nothing left," Caleb said, "I can fight, I can dodge... but most importantly, I have others that are willing to stand by my side. And when push comes to shove... my determination only grows stronger."
"Those mem cakes haven't gotten you a clue on what happened between your life timeline?" C.Q. questioned.
"It's still very fuzzy, but I suppose I'll figure out something soon. I just don't know when." Caleb answered, placing his hands in his coat pocket.
"The time will come when you least expect it, young squire." A deep voice reminded. Caleb instantly recognized the voice, gasping as he turned over to the corner of the train to see who spoke.
It was the mem cake collector himself, Iso Padre.
"Iso Padre! It's so great to see you again!" Caleb cheered as he approached the large bug creature. The latter raised one of his multiple arms.
"And how have you been lately? Is the promised land coming along quite well as you anticipated?" He asked.
"It sure has! Squidmas is just around the corner, and my friends and I are all ready for when the time comes!" Caleb exclaimed in a childlike tone, his excitement spreading all across this one train cart.
"Sounds to me like you are enjoying every moment. I am proud of you, for coming this far in your adventure to get where you need to be." Iso let out a hearty chuckle after he spoke.
"You can come along with me to the surface! There's room for one more!" Caleb insisted, his cute smile growing wider.
"I think you underestimate your expectations, young squire," Iso sighed, "I haven't been to where the sun has rose in the longest times. Fragments of my memory has already been lost in this vast area, and this train here is the only place where I can retain what I have left."
He places his small hand on Caleb's shoulder, allowing the Octoling to look up at him.
"Trust me, if I could, I'd be more than welcome to come along with you. But I'm afraid it must remain this way." The larger creature stated.
"Okay. Just wanted to ask," Caleb said in a solemn tone, "Oh, and by the way, uh... about the mem cakes..."
"That is something that you must figure out yourself," Iso reminded, "I'm still doing that to this day with a few of these collectibles I have left with me. It may take you a shorter time to realize any forgotten memories, or it may take longer. What is most important, however, is that you must be patient. It will come to you eventually."
"Yeah. One day... just one day, I know I can find out what I need to remember." Caleb responded, getting his usual determined self back together.
"Excellent, squire," Iso laughs quietly, "Now, you said that you have others that you would like to meet back with on the surface, did you not? I think it's time you head back now. Do not worry about me or the conductor. What matters is that you focus on what's in the present."
And after that was said, Caleb gently hugs Iso Padre. The latter was shocked upon feeling that, as it was something he didn't expect. But this form of contact was so... warm and cozy to him. It was unbearable not to do something about it.
His eyebrows soften as he wraps all his eight arms around Caleb's back to return the hug. And Caleb just giggles as he likes that Iso returned the favor.
"You can still be there in spirit. I can still feel your presence inside," The eighth Agent said, "I promise that one day, I will take you up there for the most beautiful view. Both you and C.Q. Cumber. At least you'll still be inside my heart as I celebrate this wonderful Squidmas!"
"You are one kind creature..." Iso mumbled, growing a bigger smile on his face, despite it not being easily recognizable. He then clear his throat as he pulls away, patting Caleb on the back.
"Now, head back to your promised land and meet back with those who mean well to you. May my heart and soul help guide you the best it can." He assured.
"Thank you, Iso Padre! I'll be heading back home now. Thank you so much for the talk! You too, C.Q.!" Caleb commented.
"The pleasure's all mine, Number 10,008." C.Q. said, grabbing his conductor hat and bowing as a form of respect. Caleb would then sit down on one of the passenger seats as the train heads back to Deepsea Metro Central Station.
"This is going to be a wonderful holiday. I just know it!" Caleb thought, closing his eyes as he still shows an excited grin.
(Quick A/N: Pretty neat that I finally decided to add Iso Padre onto my stories, right? :D)
*later on, back at Aaliyah's home*
Squidmas tree is up, decorated with ornaments and lights, brightening up the dark room to mix in with the beautiful snowy landscape. Stockings are up, hung up neatly to hold any small presents, and the great, bigger presents waiting under the Squidmas tree.
The scene cuts over to the kitchen, where Aaliyah was currently making some cookies. Holiday cookies, to be exact. They all arranged from different patterns. From the traditional tree, to a snowman, to a gingerbread man, to an ornament, and much, much more.
Aaliyah was humming "Holy Night" to herself as she puts the finishing touches on the now-cooked cookies. They were all warm, and now all Ali had to do was put the icing and decorations on the cookies to make it look nice, and taste nice.
The innocent Octoling also had a cute little Squidmas hat on. A classic red one, but a well-fit one at that to still show enough of her hair.
Suddenly, she heard a knock on the door.
"Hm?" She mumbled. Luckily, she was done with the icing by the time she heard the knock. But being a lover of icing in general, she couldn't help but hold her finger out, and place a little bit of the white icing on her finger, proceeding to put her finger in her mouth so she can eat the entirety of the icing that was laying on her pointer finger.
She wipes her hand with a wet towel after she did that, then walks to the cabinet where she grabbed two mugs. These mugs were already filled with hot chocolate. Even some tiny marshmallows as well to give it more flavor.
She set the two mugs down on the table, then walks to the door and opens it. She smiles cutely upon noticing it was Caleb who returned from his trip.
"Hey, Ali!" He greeted.
"Hi, Caleb. Come in." Aaliyah said, stepping aside to let Caleb slide on in. He nods and says a quick "thank you", then walks inside as Aaliyah closes the door. Caleb takes his boots and hat off, showing his hair in full view once again.
"How was your trip at the Deepsea Metro? No one hurt you, right...?" The innocent Octoling asked as she shows a nervous look.
"I'm fine, Ali. I just went on the train to talk to a couple friends there." Caleb chuckled. Aaliyah sighs and smiles, knowing that he is okay after the trip.
"That's good.." She replied.
"Anyways, how are you doing? What have you been up to?" The male Octoling asks.
"I made something for the two of us, Caleb," Ali said, "Just give it a couple minutes to cool down, and I can bring it out."
"Ooh! I like the sound of that!" Caleb replied, getting all excited for what Ali is going to offer.
The two Octolings spent the rest of this time talking about what this year's Squidmas is going to bring. The only noise that was now being heard in the room was just their talking, along some occasional laughs every now and then because of how much fun the two would be having.
"Did you see all that snow out there? I never seen fluffy stuff like that before!" Caleb pointed out.
"Mm hmm," Aaliyah said with a nod, "Snow is a rare thing to see in Inkopolis Square, but it is more common in winter months. Well... hee hee, okay, never mind. Snow can usually be found in winter months."
The two shared a laugh after that little statement. And they soon looked at each other with a faint, pink tint covering their cheeks.
"Oh, uh... I-I have a cup of hot chocolate ready for you, Caleb. You can head over to the table if you're thirsty.." Aaliyah offered.
"Hot chocolate? That sounds good!" Caleb said excitedly. He heads on over to the table, while Aaliyah heads back into the kitchen cabinets where the cookies are waiting. They were still on the cooling tray covered by aluminum foil, and the icing was helping give a nice visual to each of the cookies.
Aaliyah went over and grabbed a plate, and she would grab a pair of pliers and use that to grab all of the cookies and place them onto the plate. She smiled as she looked at all of the cookies she helped decorate. They looked amazing.
"I'm gonna love sharing these Squidmas cookies with Caleb. I want this moment to last..." The innocent Octoling thought.
"Mmph!" She heard a mumbled yell from Caleb.
"Huh?" Aaliyah was quick to walk over to Caleb after she heard that noise from him. When she got over there, she saw Caleb place his mug of hot chocolate down, and he had his tongue stuck out as he did so, as if his tongue was in pain.
"A-Are you okay, Caleb...?" She asked in a concerned tone.
"I-I drank a little too much of this hot chocolate, and my tongue feels like it's on fire!" Caleb complained, panting a bit from the sudden heat from the drink. Aaliyah gasped once she heard Caleb say that.
But she did manage to stifle a giggle as well, knowing that Caleb probably never tried hot chocolate in his life. Or if it's just been a long time since he tried it. Caleb looked at her curiously when she was giggling.
"You're not supposed to take a big sip like with other drinks. You're silly, Caleb." Aaliyah said.
"Ohh. Yeah, uh... I'm not used to that, unfortunately." Caleb responded. Aaliyah lets out another cute giggle, then she places the cookies on the middle of the table.
"I made Squidmas cookies, Caleb. What do you think?" The female Octoling waited for a response. Caleb looks at the cookies in awe.
"Whoa! I never seen cookies like that, Aaliyah!" He exclaimed," How did you make them look so surreal? And delicious? It's... it's very mouthwatering!"
"I used my best cookie mix to start, and they have special Squidmas cookie cutters," Aaliyah stated, "Then, after I bake them, I put special colored icing to make them look like the real things. Like the trees are green with brown on the bottom to mark the bottom branch, and the snowmen are all white with black spots as the extras."
"These are amazing, Aaliyah! You did a really good job!" Caleb complimented. Aaliyah places her hands behind her back and rolls her left ankle.
"Thanks..." She said bashfully. She then sits across from Caleb on another chair, and grabs a cookie that was shaped as a red ornament. Caleb then grabs one of the tree.
They take a bite of their chosen cookies, chewing it to savor the bite. And once they swallow it, they were in awe from the sweet, sweet taste of the seasonal cookies. Their eyes sparkled as their mouths were wide open, shocked at this taste.
"Mmm... I love it! So good!" Caleb cheered.
"I love it, too. Mmm mmm. So glad I decided to make these." Aaliyah agreed, continuing to munch on her cookie. Caleb followed shortly after, loving the mixture of how great this cookie is, and the icing to make it even better.
"Mmm... hey, Caleb." Aaliyah said after she finishes half of her cookie.
"Mmah?" Caleb looked over at Aaliyah as he talked with his mouth filled with a little bit of his sweet treat.
"When we're done having a couple more cookies, do you wanna go play out in the snow?" The innocent Octoling continues her question, soon looking over at the door to wonder how the snow is going to be like for them.
"Playing in the snow? Oh, count me in! I'd love to!" Caleb chuckled, continuing to devour the cookie that was in the palm of his hand. Aaliyah just giggles along with response, happy that Caleb enjoys her cookies.
For a day out in the snow, these two Octolings sure got a lot ahead of them. Making a snowman, snow angels, and tons of other snow activities that await for them. But for now, just some relaxation time by enjoying some Squidmas cookies and a nice mug of hot chocolate.
Nothing can go wrong during the most wonderful time of the year.
*next scene: outside*
The park was filled up with snow at this point. There was a famous hill there that people are bringing their sleds down to slide down the huge hill. Other people that didn't want to go sledding were just walking about, with some bringing their children to have them play in (or possibly eat) the snow.
It wasn't too crowded there, despite the fact that lots of people were there to have fun in this snowy atmosphere. The cheers being the main sound all throughout the huge part, that even part of Inkopolis Square could be hearing it.
Not that they don't like it, but it was quite easy to here. Can't blame 'em, as they're all having the time of their lives.
"Whooooooooooo!" Someone cheers as they were riding their sled down the top of the huge hill. The speed combined with the amount of snow caused some of it to spread out and make a little rough cloud from the sides.
The sled eventually reaches the bottom, with the person riding it revealing to be Mia. She wore a black coat, brown boots, and a maroon winter hat on top of her head. She smirked as she looked down at her sled, which was cyan with a unique yellow-green pattern.
"Man, I'm so glad I still have this bad boy," Mia said to herself as she picks up her sled, "Had this ever since I was a kid, and it still works perfectly."
The third Agent would then look around at the snowy park, loving how different it looks compared to how it normally does. And she sure is glad for that, as something like this is definitely something to make sure it lasts.
Mia pulls out her smartphone, and switches to its camera mode, and she would take pictures of whatever was around her. Just the snow in general was making her happy to get in general. There was even a street lamp that was brightened up with the cloudy skies getting a tiny bit darker.
"I love snow. It's so beautiful." She sighed happily as she continues to look around, her phone in hand, to find any other spot she hasn't managed to get just yet.
"Hey!" A male voice yelled from across. Mia caught onto that, and she turns over to the top of the hill she just went down on, as that was where she heard the voice potentially call for her.
From there, she could see a glimpse that Tom was there. On his right, Charlotte was right next to him. She and Tom had thick coats on (being blue and purple, respectively), along with colorful patterned winter hats, and tall brown boots.
"Oh, hey, you two. I take it you're gonna go sledding down the hill as well?" Mia questioned.
"Tom just got the two of us a double seated sled, and we're gonna ride it together." Charlotte said, leaning her head on Tom's shoulder, receiving a pat on the back for her Inkling boyfriend.
"That's pretty cool," Mia chuckled, "Say, why don't you two ride on it together, and I can take a picture of you? I have an interest in photography, after all, and I really wanna get as much as I can."
"Sounds fine by me, Mia. Make sure to get a good one of us." Tom said.
"Can't promise I will." Mia teased as she smirks. Tom and Charlotte chuckle together, and then they proceed to sit down on one of the seats of their sled. As they mentioned, it was double seated. And the exterior of the whole sled was blue with a pink pattern all over it.
Tom sat in the front seat, while Charlotte sat on the back. Tom grabs the front handle so he can allow the sled to move forward slowly with every short whip, so they can move without having to get up from their spots.
After enough of that, the sled tips downwards once it reaches a good spot to go down, and it starts sliding down, taking the couple along with them.
"Wheeeeee!" They both cheered in excitement as they started going at a fast speed down the snowy hill. And Mia managed to get a good picture of them on their way down. Even some snow blew near her from the sled's insane speed, but luckily, that got to her after the picture was taken.
Once the sled reaches the bottom, it comes to a complete stop. Tom and Charlotte got up from their spots, and they walked towards Mia, who was still shaking off some of the snow that got on her.
"I gotta say, you two, you did a really good job out there." Mia commented.
"Thanks!" Charlotte said gleefully.
"Did you get a good picture?" Tom asked the yellow Inkling. In return, she would pull up the recent picture that she just took, and shows it to the couple. And looking back at it, it looked pretty good, despite the snow spray.
"Looks good." Mia said.
"You can say that again." Tom agreed.
"Did you sled down the hill too, Mia?" Charlotte asked.
"Yeah," Mia responded, "Before I saw you two come along, I had my turn sliding down. Brought my sled that I had since I was little, and it still went pretty fast. This is why I love doing snow activities like this."
"Yeah. Tom and I did stuff like that sometimes, and it was really fun." Charlotte said.
"And I'm glad to keep on spending this moment with you, Char." Tom complimented. The blue-haired Octoling returns the favor by wrapping her arms around Tom, embracing him in a lovable hug.
"Me too, Tom." Charlotte replied. She and Tom then lean closer as they puckered up and closed their eyes, while Mia smiles at their loving relationship with each other.
PAF!
Suddenly, they were hit in the leg with a snowball, forcing them to pull away and yelp upon the sudden contact when they were trying to kiss.
"Eh?" Mia didn't expect that either, and she shared almost the exact same surprised expression that Tom and Charlotte had on their faces. Taking the quick opportunity, Mia looked around to see who threw that snowball in the first place.
Soon, after a second of observing, she saw Flint was there. Flint immediately caught Mia's gaze, and he shows a bashful smile as he rubs the back of his neck. Flint wore an orange coat with a red fire pattern, and has more brownish boots compared to the usual tan ones.
He also had his samurai headpiece off, and replaced it with a cozy hat.
"Sorry, 'bout that. Almost didn't see you all there." Flint apologized.
"I beg to differ. I know no one could resist temptations to throw a snowball." Mia said with a smirk.
"Well, you sure aren't wrong. I love snowball fights a whole lot!"
"I can tell, but rest assured it was not a great timing."
"Heh, I mean, I am in the mood. I really wanna get one started."
"Y'know, Flint... it is rude to interrupt."
"Yeah, I do apologize- ack!"
Flint almost stumbled as he felt a thrown snowball hitting the side of his face. The snowball exploded upon impact, leaving the rest of the snow fragments to fall onto the thick, snowy ground everyone was standing on.
"Huh?!" Flint gazed around quickly to see who it was. This time, the one who threw that snowball was Tom. It appeared he may have had time to get some payback from the interruption while Mia was talking with Flint.
Tom smirks, as his girlfriend stays by his side with a smile.
"Interesting you got distracted that easily." Charlotte teased.
"That's payback for interrupting us." Tom chuckled. Flint shook his head to recover from the impact. The orange-haired Inkling was about to respond back, but then he gets hit by yet another snowball.
"Ah!" Flint didn't stumble this time, as it aimed for his back. He knew it wasn't Mia, as she was in front of him. However, she did hide a similar smirk.
Flint turns around, and this time, it was Chany. Chany smiles as she begins to make another snowball. She turns back to Flint, innocently holding the snowball in her hands, waiting on what to do.
Chany still had her Legendary Cap on, but she wore an even thicker coat that slightly resembles her parka, and her Acerola Boots were replaced by thicker snow boots. And they were more maroon-colored.
"Hey, I heard a snowball fight was going on!" She chimed in.
"Well, one is going to start very shortly," Mia said with a shrug, "I take it that you're gonna join in? Well, feel free to do so."
"Woomy!" The pink Inkling cheers as she slightly jumps up in the air. She throws the snowball at Mia, over Flint as he yelps and ducks out of the way. But for Mia, she managed to dodge in incoming snowball.
"Alright, free-for-all snowball fight! No holding back! Let's go!" Mia insisted. The others cheered along, with Charlotte and Tom setting their sled to the side so they can join in on the snowball fight.
They all stayed back to keep a defensive position. Chany and Flint were more offensive, as they were creating one snowball at a time and throwing it immediately. Tom and Charlotte decided to made a snow fort to protect themselves.
And Mia was more sneaky, creating a few snowballs, along with a little fort, and she occasionally peeks through and sees what's going on. Then, when the moment strikes, she attacks a friend at random with one of the snowballs she made, and retreats in her squid form to avoid ones thrown at her, and gets back to her fort.
But no matter how they're playing this activity, what matters is that their laughter and screaming was what was making it fun for all of them. And no one from the outskirts were interrupted from whatever they were doing. The friend group continued their nice time in the snowball fights.
And it surely looks like it's gonna be that way for a while.
*later on, at the Squid Sister's home*
"Phew! That should be the last of the extra decorations!" Pearl said as she places her hands on her hips, looking around as she did so. She put one of the last colored banners across one of the walls to make the room look more festive for Squidmas.
"Everything should now be put up. Now we're all ready for the Squidmas party." Marina responded from across. Observing the room that these two were near, it seems that these two idols headed on over to the Squid Sisters' place for a welcoming party for the holiday season.
Callie and Marie already had everything done. Gifts were under the tree, food was covered and kept warm at the large dinner table, party decorations surrounded the room, and most importantly, they had help from their closest friends to make this year's Squidmas a great one.
The four idols soon got together in the living room, where the huge tree almost reached the tip of the ceiling. Holiday music was playing on the radio to help soothe the atmosphere even more to really make it ready for Squidmas.
"Ahh... I love Squidmas!" Callie giggled, "It's the one holiday that I will always love, no matter what age, or what time! And I always love getting together with everyone, opening gifts and sharing reactions..."
"Me too, Callie. Can't wait to get the others here so we can have a memorable celebration." Marina agreed as she nods.
"Yeah, it's going to be nice to open some early gifts that we'll be giving to the others," Marie said as she smiles, "I already got tons ready for you guys. I even got some for Mia, Gramps... Redd..."
"Ooh, is the one for Redd what I think it may be? A wedding ring?" Pearl asked as she smirks, wiggling her eyebrows.
"Psh, don't be silly, Pearl. Something like that won't be until years from now," Marie scoffed, "Besides, I think it would be nice to give Redd a gift that he loves so much. I bet he's already preparing to head on over once I call him."
"You and Redd sure have grown closer after all this time, huh?" Marina questioned. Marie looks at the DJ Octoling and nods.
"Absolutely. This gift will certainly be good for him once he receives it." The lime green Squid Sister stated.
"You're not the only one who got something for someone you love, Marie!" Callie chimed in, "I actually got something for Sonic, too! I bet he'll really love it!"
"Ironically, I got something for him, too!" Pearl exclaimed.
"S-So did I!" Marina added on. The three girls looked at each other, and all blushed at the same time. They make a nervous noise as they avert their eyes away from each other.
Marie shows her trademarked smirk as she slightly hides it under her hand.
"And it's lucky to know that for such kind squids such as Redd, Sonic, Caleb, Mia... they'll sure return the favor." She said.
"I agree." Marina replied.
"So, anyways, we gonna call them over, or what?" Pearl asked, somewhat impatiently, "We got lots of presents to open once we all get together! We really need to get them all here and make this the best Squidmas we can ask for!"
"Oh, Pearlie. We'll be getting to that right now." Marina giggled.
"I'll call them over right now. Assuming that no one is busy." Marie insisted, pulling out her squid phone from her pocket.
"Yayer!" Callie chuckles as she grabs her own phone to call others that Marie doesn't plan on calling soon. The Off the Hook idols just look at each other, then they just smile and shrug in complete unison.
*about 15 minutes later...*
Soon, everyone has all arrived at the Squid Sisters' apartment upon getting the notice from the idols about the party. Those who were busy explained that they'll come soon, while others like Redd and Caleb came almost immediately.
They were all relaxing and enjoying many games and activities inside. The Squidmas dinner won't get started until another 45 minutes from now, as it seemed necessary to wait until it got more dark outside.
"Ah... now this, I really love." Mia sighed happily as she looks around, crossing her arms as she does so.
"Oh yeah! I'm in awe right now! It's beautiful!" Caleb exclaimed.
"Me too, Caleb." Sonic agreed as he nods his head.
"Sonic!"
The blue haired Inkling heard Callie, Pearl and Marina call his name at the same time. The three idols ran over to him, and they enveloped Sonic in a group hug, causing the Inkling's face to brighten up.
Callie then kisses Sonic above his nose, while Pearl and Marina do so on the cheeks again, similar to what the two did the first time. At this point, Sonic's face turned an entirely different color.
The girls all giggled at that. Mia and Caleb managed to see the whole thing go on within their very eyes. Caleb was shocked as he also had a blush, while Mia was just confused.
"I don't know why I bother..." Mia mumbled quietly. Caleb could only stutter silently, but that didn't earn much of a response from anyone else. Soon, the idols all took Sonic along for the tour ride, which the blue Inkling wholeheartedly agrees.
"We have an early gift for you, Sonic!" Callie said.
"We'll give it to you now. I bet you'll love it a lot!" Pearl added.
"Oh, uh... o-okay." Sonic stuttered, smiling as he lets the idols go along with him.
Chany, Tom, Flint, and Aaliyah were currently playing UNO. Aaliyah was getting back into it, as she hasn't really played UNO in a long time. Charlotte was by Tom's side to cheer him on. The group had seven cards each in their hands.
The current card in the middle was a red 9 card.
"Uh... s-so what do I have to do again...?" Aaliyah asked innocently.
"You have to put down a card that's the same color, or same number," Chany explained, "You keep on doing that until there are no more cards in your hands. And if you don't have a card that resembles such, you take out two more cards from the pack there."
And the Inkling gestures towards a whole stack of cards.
"Actually, Chany, it's just one card." Flint reminded.
"Oh, right. Thanks, Flint. It's been a while playing UNO." Chany smiles as she spoke.
"Hey, Aaliyah. Don't be nervous. Give it the best you got!" Charlotte encouraged her Octoling friend, while Tom gives Aaliyah a thumbs up. The pink-haired Octoling looks at Charlotte and nods as a way of saying thank you.
Apparently, the turn starts with Aaliyah, so she puts down a red 2 card. The turns are going clockwise, and she was sitting next to Chany and Flint. Chany was on Aaliyah's left side (her left), so Chany went next.
Chany puts down a red 5 card, followed by Flint putting down a green 5 card. Tom puts down a green 7 card.
And from there, the turns kept going on and on. Chany managed to get two of her wild cards down when she didn't have a choice, and the turns reversed after Tom put down a reverse card when the color was appropriate.
The game kept going on, and it seems it's not gonna end anytime soon, considering the amount of cards everyone was getting when they didn't have a matching color nor number. But they were still having fun, telling by the big smiles on their faces.
In another room, Redd and Marie were by each other, with a mug of hot chocolate in their hands.
"Merry Squidmas, Redd." Marie commented.
"May this be a great year for all of us." Redd said, letting out a chuckle that made Marie's heart warm.
"So how was today for you, hun?"
"Turf Wars with the boys, then came over to hang out with you and my friends."
"Good to hear. Oh, by the way, I got you something."
"Oh?"
Marie smiles as she brings out a small gift box in her hands. Redd gasped, looking at the box in shock.
"Y... You're giving this to me...?" He asked.
"It's an early gift, Redd. Don't open it until you get back home. Consider it a great one." Marie said in a teasing tone. Redd could only gleefully smile at his girlfriend's tease.
"I have a gift for you too, Marie, but I don't wanna give it to you until Squidmas Day." Redd said. Marie, still showing a sassy smirk, cups Redd's chin with her fingers, letting him look at her.
"Aww, you trying to get me good, huh? I offer you an early gift, and you ain't giving mine until the actual day arrives?" She questioned.
"Them's the rules, Marie. Gotta follow tradition." Redd replied.
"You're lucky I love you so much, you delicious cherry." Marie teased, blushing. Redd shares a similar blush on his cheeks with his red ink color.
"Oh, hey, Redd," The lime green Inkling suddenly said, "What's that above our heads?"
Redd immediately took note of that and looked above to see what exactly Marie was talking about. As the two of them look up together, they notice that it was a mistletoe hanging a couple feet above from them.
"Huh. Never noticed that mistletoe above us until now." Redd said.
"Isn't the classic tradition of a mistletoe that whenever two people are under one, they kiss?" Marie questioned while a loving smirk was on her face. She and Redd looked at each other while blushing, and they smile lovingly.
"Well, now that you mention it..." The red Inkling started. He didn't bother to finish the sentence, as he got nothing else to say. However, what did come next was that he leaned closer with Marie to kiss on the lips. They close their eyes and let this moment overtake them.
Everyone was busy, so no one looked to see that Marie and Redd were still in their kiss. They wrapped their arms around each other to make the moment even more unforgettable.
After 15 more seconds, they pulled away as they shared cute smiles on their faces.
"Oh, by the way... where's Cuttlefish? Shouldn't he be here, too?" Redd questioned.
"He's gonna arrive, but he told me he's gonna be more late than usual," Marie explained, "He said that he has a quick lookout with the Special Forces leader, regarding concerns about the Octarian Army."
She shuddered as she shared an uncomfortable look.
"We shouldn't dig deep into that. I'd rather NOT think about the army right now." She exclaimed, regaining a relaxed posture again.
"Way ahead of you." Redd agrred.
"Anyways, let's head back and spend some time with the others." Marie insisted. Redd shows his signature grin and holds his girlfriend's hand.
"Let's have a wonderful Squidmas this year." Redd said. Marie chuckles and nods, loving Redd's enthusiasm. They proceeded to walk together to the main room where others would be waiting for them for what to do next.
The rest of the party then proceeded to go along nicely. Everyone was continuing to have a good time, and once it got more dark, the buffet started, and everyone was quick to have a lot of things, and fill their stomachs so the fun can never end.
Those who had some early gifts got them now, but the Squid Sisters and Off the Hook insisted to wait until they get home to open them, but some insisted otherwise, which they didn't complain. It was great to get reactions anyway.
And for the rest of the night, it was just going to be a dark, snowy evening with a festive party to make this a great Squidmas for everyone. For the season of giving, the whole group and the idols knew that nothing could ever top something like this.
A gathering with friends and family was the only thing to make this the best Squidmas of all time.
Author's Note: Aight, that's all for my Squidmas one shot. I hope you enjoyed it! I certainly did, too! :D
I hope you guys have Happy Holiday. I'm gonna make sure these next couple days go well for me, and I hope it goes the same for all of you, too. Remember to stay safe!
Stay Fresh, my friendos, and I'll cya next time in City of Light and more stories! Merry Christmas, and have a Happy New Year, too! ;)