As morning arrived in East Liverpool, Celestine stood out of the balcony of New Rad, and watched as the sun ascended in the horizon, just beyond the mountains. She took a deep breath of fresh morning air as a smile crept across her face. 'Mm... what a beautiful morning it is today.' As she took in the breathtaking sight, a knock sounded at the door of her bed chambers and she turned and walked back inside.
"Come in." She opened the chambers' doors when Kin calmly walked in. With a warm smile on her face Celestine greeted the sorcerer. "Good morning Kin, how are you?" she sat down in the center of her bed chambers and motioned Kin to sit by her.
Kin nodded and walked over as he sat down across the high elf. "I am doing good Celestine." He let out a heavy sigh. "However, we do need to discuss something with you, if you aren't too preoccupied." He looked down at the floor and scuffed his boot covered shoes against it tightly.
Celestine looked at her friend with a bot of worry in her eyes. "Of course you can talk with me Kin, but please tell me, what is the matter?" She reached across to place a hand comfortingly on Kin's shoulder.
As another sigh escaped her lips, Kin lifted to look into the eyes of the high elf. "Well Celestine, remember two nights ago I..." He was soon cut off as Spike suddenly appeared between the two. He let out a sigh of relief and gave a curious look. "Hmm... that appears to be a letter from the Warriors Celestine, but why do you think they would send one this early in the morning?"
Celestine shook her head softly. "I couldn't guess Kin. However, this must have been written last night, and I am just receiving it now." She tilted her head in curiosity. "Let us find out what it says, shall we?" She gave a warm smile and unraveled the paper.
Dear Celestine,
This morning, my cousin, the princess of Feoh, Prim discovered a child in front of Sunny's door, sleeping in a basket. His name is Toby, and Connor theorized he he is an orphan. He is only a child, probably at the age of five, if not younger, he is very sweet and polite.
However, what Connor said about the dragon attacks from long ago has me deeply concerned for myself, my friends, and East Liverpool. Connor told us that people have lost their lives to dragon attacks. And he thinks that Toby lost his parents by that, but he is still just so young.
If its alright with you Celestine, I thought myself that the rest of the Warriors could bring this little one to meet you and King Charles. The others are going to be staying the night here at the catacombs and we will wait for your reply.
Sincerely your fellow member of the Shield Princess Alliance,
Princess Alicia Arcturus
After she read the letter, Celestine rolled it back up, and placed it over to her the shelf where Charles kept the letters. Kin who watched on curiously spoke up. "Is something wrong Celestine? What did the letter say?" A look of concern formed on his face.
A light chuckle escaped Celestine's lips. "Oh dear Kin, there is nothing wrong whatsoever. It appears that my fellow princess, Alicia and her friends have discovered a new, child to East Liverpool." She cleared her throat. "Guards!" She opened her chamber doors as two guards entered.
"Yes your highness?" The two said simultaneously as they bowed their heads.
She gave a small bow of her head as well. "Guards, go prepare a dragon and go down to East Liverpool. I would like you to bring the Dragon Warriors to the castle." She gave one last bow of her head.
"Yes your highness!" The two guards bowed their heads in return and turned to walk out of her bed chambers.
As Celestine turned she smiled warmly at Kin. "As for us dear Kin, we better prepare to welcome our fellow princesses, their friends, and their special guest." She chuckled as she walked up beside Kin. "Now what was it that you would like to discuss with me Kin?" That warm smile still on her face.
Kin blushed at the smile of the high elf. "Oh... nothing Celestine. I am looking forward to meeting our friends again and this new arrival that Alicia speaks in her letter." He returned the smile.
"As am I Kin." She turned to walk out of her bed chambers. "Come, let us go get ready for their arrival." With a nod of agreement, Kin followed beside the high elf.
East Liverpool-Dragon Warriors Catacombs
As the sound of rats were heard outside of the catacombs, Connor started to stir in his sleep. He blinked his eyes open as he let out a soft yawn. 'Mm.. what a night. I slept like a baby tucked in snug and comfortable in his crib.' He looked outside to see the sun shining brightly up in the surface, a warm smile crept across his face. 'I'll go see if the others are u yet so we can have some breakfast.' He carefully climbed out of his bed and turned to see Beardsley who was making breakfast. Well it looks like someone is already downstairs preparing breakfast for all of us all.' He carefully walked downstairs to see if his friends were awake.
Each of the Warriors were starting to wake from their slumber, but their new little friend, Toby remained asleep and curled up under the warm, soft form of Prim. When Connor arrived downstairs he smiled warmly at his friends. "Good morning Warriors." He watched as they slowly stood up, except for Prim who kept the small bow tucked under her arm close to her side.
"Well for one, I slept wonderfully Connor." Claudia let out a light chuckle and took a deep breath. "Oh my, what is that wonderful aroma?"
Beardsley soon entered into the den of the catacombs. "Well Lady Claudia, I prepared all of you a big breakfast. I also the the little one something special which I am keeping warm." The minister gave a smile of confidence, but soon heard wings flapping. He turned and spotted Spike came back with a scroll in his beak.
"Oh, Celestine must've sent a reply!" Alicia beamed as she grabbed the letter and unrolled it.
Dear Alicia,
After reading over your letter, I've decided that it would be an honor to welcome not only you, and your fellow Warriors, but also the new arrival that you speak of. I well send a couple of my loyal guards down to East Liverpool to accompany you, and your friends to New Rad. Kin and Charles will be waiting for your arrival.
Your fellow elf & friend,
Celestine Lucullus
"Alright everyone, let us eat the wonderful breakfast that Beardsley prepared for us, wait for Toby to wake up so he enjoy his breakfast, and then we'll get ready. A dragon with a couple of Charles' guards should be here soon." Alicia smiled warmly and thought. "How about we eat outside today? I think it's a beautiful day to do so."
"That sounds like a good idea Alicia." Maia chuckled as she stood along with the others. She then looked at Prim still laid down. "Prim, you better wake the little one up so he can eat with us." She gave a warm smile.
Prim turned to look down at the sleeping child. "Um... I know Maia... um... but he looks so peaceful sleeping." She carefully lifted her arm and leaned her head down to nuzzle at the top of his head. "Um... Toby sweetheart, it's time to wake up." She lightly stroked at his side with her arm.
As he laid sleeping quietly under the princess's arm, Toby was having a dream. "Hello, is anyone here?" He called out as he was surrounded by darkness and he started to tremble. "Hello?" He called out again, this time with a whimper. Suddenly a small ball of light appeared in front of him. "Hello? Is someone there?" He hesitantly took a step forward.
"Sh... calm yourself sweetheart, it's me." The sound emanating from the light was soft, tender, and it shrouded the child with a warm, comforting aura. However, as he listened to the sound, he gasped as he recognized the voice.
"Mommy?! Is that you?" A look of relation adorned his face as he looked ahead, but all there was, was the beacon of light.
"Yes my little angel, it's me." The light suddenly got closer and started to take on a physical form as it approached Toby. Within seconds, the light took on the form of a woman who knelt down in front of the boy and reached up to stroke at his hair. "Oh Toby, my sweet little boy, I miss you so much." She gave him a warm smile and lowered her hand to tenderly caress his cheek.
Tears started to prick at his eyes as he looked into the beautiful, blue eyes of his mother. "I miss you too Mommy!" He cried as he reached up to touch at her hand, but all he felt was air and soon the figure began to drift away. "Mommy, what's happening?" HIs lips quivered as he watched her slowly disappear.
"Shh... please sweetheart, don't be sad." The woman felt tears form in her own eyes as she slowly stood up. She placed a warm, angelic hand on his back and pulled him to her abdomen in a hug. "Mommy loves you Toby, and I'll always be here with you." She looked down at him with a maternal smile. "I have to go now my angel, but I will always return when you need me." She lifted her hand off his back as the rest of her drifted away like sand in the wind.
"Mommy, no wait! Mommy!" He cried out as his eyes shut open only to see the face of Prim looking down at him with a warm smile, but that soon faded once she noticed him trembling under her arm, and saw tears rolling down his cheeks.
"Toby dear, what's wrong?" Prim stroked at his small form to try and calm him down. "Um.. did you have a bad dream?" She leaned her head down and nuzzled his cheek, gently licking away the tears.
He sniffed. "No, it wasn't a bad dream, but it was bad at the end." He started to calm his trembling as he felt her lick at her tears. "I saw my mommy in my dream, but she disappeared." He sniffled and snuggled closer to Prim's side.
'The poor dear, I hope we can find out what's bothering him when we go see Celestine. For right now, I'll do my best to comfort him.' She continued to tenderly caress at his said with an arm. "Toby... um... are you hungry sweetheart? Beardsley made you a warm breakfast and we can eat outside with the others." She nuzzled at his cheek.
He calmed himself and looked up into her caring eyes. "That sounds nice Prim. I am a little hungry." He let out a small yawn. "What did Beardsley fix me for breakfast?" He looked at the princess curiously.
A light giggle escaped her lips as she lifted her arm and nuzzled at his cheek again. "Well, that is a surprise. Let's get up and go out and go out and see." She carefully stood up as Toby done the same and stretched out his arms and legs. As she was about to walk ahead, she felt a tug on her arm and looked down at the child. "Is something wrong Toby?"
He bit his lips as he looked up at her. "Prim, I need to go use the bathroom." He turned his head away shyly.
"Oh my... um... okay sweetheart. Just follow me." She placed an arm over his back and carefully walked with him up the staircase. Once they got to the bathroom door Prim looked down at Toby tenderly. "I'll be right outside the door when you are done Toby, and we will join the others for breakfast."
He looked up at her and nodded. "Okay Prim." He turned and enter the bathroom, shutting the door behind him.
Outside, Connor and the others were enjoying their breakfast while enjoying the beautiful morning. Claudia took in a deep breath of fresh air. "Mm... such a marvelous day it is to eat outside if I may say so myself." She let out a small laugh as she sipped at her mint tea that Beardsley brewed for her. "I hope Celestine and Charles will like meeting our dear new little friend." Her brows furrowed with a bit of worry.
"I'm sure they will Claudia." Luu Luu smirked proudly while she munched on her tomato and lettuce sandwich Beardsley made her. "Besides he is a little gentleman if I may say so. He is very respectful to others and that will go far with him meeting the high elf and king." She chewed at her sandwich.
"I agree Luu Luu." Connor smiled warmly as he ate his fresh fruit salad. "I do believe Celestine and Charles will like Toby, but then there is that worry of mine with him and the dragons, they they might... well, let's not discuss that right now." He waved his hand with a heavy sigh.
Soon Prim and Toby walked out with Toby walking beside the princess. He waved at the others. "Good morning everyone." He gave a soft smile as he tried to shake off the event from earlier.
"Good morning dear, did you sleep well last night?" Rarity gave him a warm smile as she had a pillow beside her. "Come dear, I saved you a seat beside me and a seat for you Prim to sit with him on the other side." She patted the pillow with a hand.
"Thank you Claudia and yes ma'am, I slept good last night." Toby returned the smile and carefully walked over to the female knight, and sat down beside her. As he saw the Warriors eating, he felt a small rumble in his own little tummy and a light blush formed on his cheeks. "Oh, I'm sorry." He then felt something soft on his back and looked up to see Prim.
"No need to be sorry sweetheart, you are hungry and need something to eat." The princess sat down beside him and nuzzled at his belly, causing the child to giggle.
"I think I might have a solution to that Prim." The group turned to see Beardsley coming out with a tray with three plates on it. "This is for you Prim, a fresh, crisp salad with lettuce, diced tomato, pecans, and cranberries." He placed Prim's plate in front of her and turned to Toby. "And for you little one, I done reading of what children like to eat. I made two pancakes with some fresh syrup. I sliced an apple for you too so you can have your daily fruit and a glass of apple juice." He placed Toby's plate in front of him.
"What did you fix for yourself Beardsley?" Connor gave a curious yet warm smile toward the minister.
"I got myself a bowl of cereal." He chuckled and sat down beside Connor.
He let out a chuckle of his own and patted his head. He then turned his attention to Toby. "Toby, after we get done eating breakfast, we are going to go meet with the royals of Eostia, high elf Celestine and King Charles. How does that sound?" He gave a warm smile hoping that he won't be timid about meeting a couple more people.
He swallowed a bite of food. "I would like that Connor." He returned the smile and reached for his glass of apple juice to take a drink.
After a few minutes passed and they all finished their meals, the royal guards tasked in bringing them to New Rad arrived in front of the Warriors. Connor noticed them stop in front of the sewer entrance. "Alright guys, they're here. Let's get ready to leave." He turned toward Beardsley. "Would you like to come with us Beardsley?" He gave him a warm smile.
"No thank you, I'll be fine here Connor. I will make sure it is clean when you get back." He gave a wink, saluted the others and turned to go back to the catacombs.
Prim looked down at Toby as she stood up. "Are you ready to go meet the royals Toby?" She smiled warmly at him as he gave a simple nod. She placed an arm over his shoulders and walked along side him as they went down.
As they walked towards the guards, the guards bowed their heads to Connor. "Sir Connor Nickell, we have been assigned to bring you and your fellow Dragon Warriors to New Rad and meet with the royals." One guard spoke with a salute of his hand.
"Please step carefully into the carriage and we shall be on our way." The other guard saluted as well.
Connor gave a bow of his own. "Thank you sirs." She walked forward and stepped up into the carriage, and a seat at the front.
"Aw, yeah! We're going for a ride!" Maia giggled and walked happily up to the carriage beside Connor. "Onward!" She playfully yelled, earning a grunt from the two Nightmares.
"I'll just fly alongside you two humans. See ya." A sly smirk crept across the halfling's face as she flew up into the air with Bigjaw.
Kaguya rolled her eyes as she walked up into the carriage next and she turned to Claudia. "Want to sit by me Claudia?" She patted the seat beside her.
With a fluff of her hair, Claudia walked up to the seat next to the shrine maiden. "Don't mind if I do dear. Thank you kindly Kaguya." She turned to see Prim and Toby appearing last. "Dear, we saved the last two seats for you and Prim." She gave him a warm smile.
"Okay Claudia." He stepped up into the carriage and scooted toward the side. He looked around at the red satin interior and golden exterior. "I never rode anything like this before." Then some of the Warriors went into the carriage.
"A soft, warm arm laid over his shoulders as Prim sat down beside him and she looked down at him. "Don't worry sweetheart, the guards will go easy." She kissed the top of his head. 'He is such a precious child that I feel he could be my own.' A warm smile crept across her face as she couldn't take her gaze off Toby.
Soon the guards got on to their Nightmares, and then they flapped their wings to ascend in the air. They turned in midair to face the direction of New Rad and made their way to the castle.
New Rad
Soon the group arrived in front of the castle as the dragons slowly descended from the sky and came to a soft landing on the ground. One guard went off and turned toward the group. "Step carefully off the carriage and enter the castle. The royals are awaiting your arrival in the throne room." He gave a salute to them.
One by one, they exited the carriage and as soon as Toby stepped down, he looked up in awe at the large castle that stood before hm. He looked up at Prim standing beside him. "Wow! This place is so big Prim." He gently wrapped an arm around her leg.
Her heart melted at the gesture as she laid an arm over his shoulders. "Yes it is sweetheart, but don't be scared, the high elf and king are very nice and will make sure you are safe here." She kissed the top of his head. "Are you ready to go meet them?" He looked up and responded with a simple nod and the group entered the castle.
As they traveled through the castle toward the throne room, Toby just looked in wonder at the beautiful decor of the palace. A smile crept across his face. 'Mommy would love this place and many pretty windows.' He then saw they they were approaching a set of large doors where two guards were standing on each side.
They opened the throne room doors. "You may enter." They said in unison and inside stood the high elf and king at their respective throne.
A warm smile crept across each of their faces. "Welcome Dragon Warriors!" Celestine spoke and bowed her head. "It is great to see you all again. I hope the trip here was safe for you all." She looked at the Warriors, but she couldn't see the little child that Alicia spoke of in her letter.
"I too hope you all had a safe trip." King Charles gave a bow of his head as well to the group. "And as Celestine said, it is a pleasure to see you all again." He gave out a light chuckle as well.
"It was fun!" Maia exclaimed, earning a laugh at her friends and the royals. "I was like a princess being carried by brave knights." She beamed.
Celestine giggled at the mercenary's giddiness, but looked curiously at the group, still searching for the little boy. She cleared her throat. "So, where is our special guest that you mentioned in your letter?" She gave a warm smile.
"Oh, he is right here Celestine." Alicia turned to point a finger toward Toby, but didn't see him. She arched her brows. "Uh, where's Toby Prim?"
Prim turned her head to look down at her leg and lowered to the child. "Toby dear, it's okay, there isn't anything to be afraid of." She gave a reassuring and warm smile as she nuzzled his cheek.
With a gentle nod, Toby slowly stepped out from behind Prim's leg and took a step forward. He lifted his gaze from the tiled floor to the two royals and a nervous swallow traveled down his throat. He slowly knelt down on one knee and bowed his head. "Hello your highnesses."
Charles and Celestine looked at each other with expressions mixed with surprise yet they smiled at the young child. They slowly walked forward, stopping a few feet away from him. "It's okay little one, there is no need to bow." Celestine reached out one of her hands out to lightly touch at his shoulder. "You may rise my dear." She smiled warmly down at him.
He lifted his head to look up at the royals as he carefully stood up. "Yes your highness." He gave a small smile as he folded his hands in front of him.
So not to be intimidating to the boy at their full height, both royal friends carefully kneeled down onto the smooth tiled floor. Connor along with the others did the same to help make Toby feel more comfortable around the royals. Celestine reached a hand to him again and held his hands in it. "Welcome to East Liverpool little one, I am Celestine Lucullus and this is my friend, King Charles." She motioned her free hand toward her friend.
Hello young one, it is a pleasure to meet you." Charles gave him a warm smile.
Celestine rubbed the back of his hands gently with her free hand. "Together we reside this land of Ohio. I hope your stay here has been a pleasant and peaceful one so far little one." She looked into the eyes. "If an elf may ask, could you tell me your name dear?"
Toby couldn't help but blush as the royal elf rubbed at his hands gently with her hand. He returned her gaze. "My name is, Celestine. It is nice to meet you and nice to meet you too King Charles." He gave a soft smile to Charles who returned it.
"Well, that is a nice name for a handsome young boy like yourself. And as Charles said, indeed it is a great pleasure to meet you as well Toby." She then gently touched his shoulder with her hand as did Charles. As her hand touched her shoulder, Celestine could feel something was off about the boy, like some internal pain. She carefully lifted her hand and looked deep into his eyes again. "Toby dear, is there something that is bothering you?"
A look of nervousness spread across the boy's face, but he shook his head. "No your highness, I'm okay. I promise." He gave a reassuring smile.
'There is something truly bothering this child I believe.' Celestine thought to herself as she gave a softened look to Toby. "It's okay Toby, if there is anything bothering you, you can tell us. There is nothing to be afraid of, we won't judge you." She leaned her head down to nuzzle at his hands.
Toby looked back at Prim who gave him a sincere smile and nod of her head to let him know that it was okay to tell. He then turned back to look at Celestine. "Well Celestine, when I was five years old, I..." Suddenly he closed his eyes and took in a shuttering breath. He turned his head to the side as he felt tears form in his eyes. "I can't. I'm sorry your highness, but I can't." He sniffled and started to shake.
Without hesitation, Prim quickly walked up to him, wrapped an arm around his shoulders, and pulled him into a warm, comforting hug against her body. "Shh... don't cry sweetheart, I've got you." She rubbed at his back soothingly with her hand and leaned her head down to nuzzle the top of his head.
The Warriors and the two royals frowned at the pain displayed by the young child. Celestine reached out to lightly stroke his back. "Oh you poor child, I'm so sorry. Please dear, try to calm yourself." She felt his shaking starting to settle down.
As he sniffed, Toby turned his head to look at the comforting smile of Celestine. "I'm sorry your highness, it's just hard to talk about." He hugged at Prim's arm and looked up at her. "I'm sorry Prim and everyone." He turned to look at the others who simply shook their hands.
"No dear, there is no need to apologize. If you don't feel like speaking about anything right now, we aren't going to force you." Claudia gave him a sincere, warm smile.\
"That is right little one." Kaguya cleared her throat. "When you do feel like talking, we will be ready to listen, do you understand?" Toby replied with a simple nod as his crying and shaking settled down.
Celestine carefully stood up along with her friend and the others as she looked down at the boy. "For now, how would you like to take a small tour of the castle?" She let out a soft laugh.
Toby looked up at the elf and nodded. "I would like that Celestine. I never been inside a castle before." He then looked up and around the massive throne room, "It's very pretty in this room."
"Well, thank you child, my friend and I always try our best to keep it not only clean, but welcoming to all of our guests who come and visit." Charles gave a warm smile as he motioned around the room with a hand. "This room is mine and my son's where we usually meet with other people from all over Eostia, where we came from." He looked toward Celestine who gave a nod.
"Come dear, we have a lot to show you." Celestine walked forward to lead the way as Charles was right behind her friend, and soon the Warriors followed behind. They soon arrived at a long hallway with well crafted and colored stained glass windows on each side. "And this place Toby is known as the hall of heroes." Celestine smiled down at the boy.
"Heroes Celestine?" Toby looked up at the high elf with curiosity and turned to look at the windows.
She nodded. "Yes dear, heroes. They not only bring all inhabitants, both great and small of Eostia together in happiness, but also protect the land from those who try to bring chaos and destruction to all of us." Her gaze focused on the windows which had the knights altogether. "And these heroes you have met are the Dragon Warriors the current heroes." She motioned toward Connor and the others.
With a flutter of her brows, Claudia cleared her throat. "That is correct dear, we each vowed to protect other kingdoms to ensure the safety of Eostia and bring peace to all. For instance, I like to put needs of me fellow knights before mine, so therefore I protect the kingdom of Rad." She gave a gentle wink and pat on his head.
"If there is any human in danger, I'll be there." Maia looked at the child. "I protect the kingdom of Ken, and I am always able to help anyone in need. So don't you ever lie, do you understand?" She gave a stern yet soft smirk, but Toby replied with a simple nod. She chuckled. "Don't worry sweetie, I won't ever harm you for telling a lie, but just maybe give you a lecture." She ruffled his hair a bit.
As quick as a wolf, Luu Luu came. "If you ever get in a bind or just need someone to talk to little dude, I'll always be there." She smirked. "I protect the kingdom of Ur, and I'll never desert my friends, especially in a time of need." She gave a smirk of her own and ruffled Toby's hair as well.
Kaguya suddenly came toward Toby and bowed. "Laughing is the sound I like to hear little Toby." She ruffled his hair before lifting him up. "I protect the kingdom of Geofu and it is always my duty to make sure all the people in Eostia always have a smile on their face." She placed him back on the floor and patted his head before stepping back.
Prim let out a slight squeak giggle and turned to the boy. "Me and my cousin protect the kingdom of Feoh Toby and we make sure to give the greatest care we can to all of the people of Eostia both big." She then placed an arm over his shoulders and nuzzled his nose. "And small." She gave him a warm smile.
Connor came holding his sheathed sword. Carefully, he kneeled down in front of Toby. "Don't be scared Toby, I'm a knight as well. I won't let anything hurt you kid, because I protect the kingdom of Ansur." He gave him a warm smile. "However, I always do my best to use my weapons for good, but at times I have to face those who possess dark magic. Yet I know though with my friends I can defeat the forces of dark magic." He looked back at him.
Then Vault came towards Toby with a smirk on his face. "And as for me, I protect the kingdom of Thorn. And with my allies in the Black Dogs we can take down a bun ch of monsters." Vault smirked.
"And that my dear are the Dragon Warriors, and they are heroes." Celestine smiled warmly at the child. "Now let us go..."
"Hold up! What about the traveler of Eostia!" A voice echoed through the great hall as a look of mixed with confusion yet shock washed all over everyone's faces.
"BOBERT?!" Everyone said in unison as they looked around for the owner of the voice.
Suddenly out of nowhere, the swindler appeared before the group. He removed an invisibility cloak, drinking out of a tall glass of milk. He sported a pair of sunglasses, a sombrero atop of his head, an aloha shirt, he wore a pair of beige shorts.
"That's my name!" A chuckle escaped his lips as he looked at the group. "I was just spending a well rested vacation on the shores of East Liverpool and I won pretty big!" He took out a pile of money out of his pocket.
"Well, it is a pleasure to see you again Bobert." A slight chuckle escaped Celestine's lips as she gave him a warm smile. "I would like to meet a special guest of ours." She looked toward Connor who gave a warm smile and walked forward with Toby beside him. Celestine placed an arm over the boy's shoulders and looked at Bobert. "Bobert, this fine young boy is Toby." She then turned to Toby. "Toby, this fine, yet what is the word, oh right, cunning person is Bobert, also known as the traveler of Eostia." She motioned toward the swindler with a hand.
"That was a decent introduction Celestine." Bobert chuckled and reached out his hand. "It's great to meet you little fella." He gave Toby a wink.
Toby reached out to shake the hand. "It is nice to meet you too Mr... Aah!" Suddenly the hand fell off as Toby shook it.
The Warriors gasped, but Bobert simply chuckled. "Haha... easy there little guy, it was only a prank. Of my one of a kind detachable hand." His real hand came out of his sleeve.
Alicia shook her head. "Now Bobert, Toby is new here, and he isn't familiar with jokes or pranks like that." She sighed and look back at Toby. "Are you okay sweetheart?"
"Yes Alicia, I am." He then let out a slight yawn.
"Oh, it seems like a little one is getting sleepy." Prim smiled warmly and walked up beside Alicia. "If you want Toby, you can rest on my back and I'll cover you up with my hair." She nuzzled at his cheek.
With a simple nod, he let out another yawn before crawling over onto Prim's back. "Thank you Prim." He gave a soft smile as he laid down and curled up into a ball. He slowly closed his eyes and drifted off into a peaceful sleep.
Alicia lifted a hand to brush Prim's hair and lay some of it over the child's form. "Sleep tight sweetheart." She whispered and leaned to give a kiss atop of his head. After making sure he was sleeping peacefully, she looked at Celestine. "Celestine, what do you think is bothering him?" She returned her gaze at Toby with a look of concern on her face along with the others.
A heavy sigh escaped Celestine's lips as she frowned at the sleeping child. "To be quite honest Alicia, I don't know." She then looked at the Warriors. "However, I can sense that whatever is bothering him, it is very traumatic, even for one as young as him to go through." She walked near Prim and reached a hand up to a very lightly stroke at Toby's sleeping form.
"The poor dear, I wish there was something we could do to cheer him up." Claudia sighed heavily as she looked on sadly at the sleeping boy.
Without warning, beamed from ear to ear and shot straight up in the air. "I GOT IT!" She said excitedly as her pigtails rose up.
"LUU LUU!" The group gasped as they placed their hands up to their lips.
"Oops, sorry!" Luu Luu giggled and blushed. "I was thinking that we could throw the little cutie a fun-filled..."
"Are you trying to say we should throw the little kid a party, Luu Luu?" Maia raised an eyebrow.
Luu Luu nodded. "Yep, but how did you know?" She looked at the mercenary queen quizzically.
"Just a lucky guess." Maia chuckled. "That is a good idea to throw him a party." She smiled warmly as she looked at Toby.
"Oh, that is a great idea!" A smirk crept across Vault's face. "I can show the little guy Scar's flaming performance!" He chuckled proudly. "And I could also perform tricks for him to enjoy."
"Oh, my this is starting to sound like it will be such a wonderful event!" Claudia smiled brightly. "I believe I will like to participate in preparing this party by making the dear a new outfit." She looked at the sleeping child and then at Prim. "Would you be okay with that dear?"
"Um.. of course Claudia. I think Toby would like that." Prim turned her head to at him sleeping soundly on her back, covered by the warmness and softness of her hair. "She turned to look at the others. "Maybe I could try to get Flame and Smoke to sing a song for Toby." She smiled as a pink blush formed on her cheeks.
"Oh this is indeed a great planned party so far!" Connor clapped his hands together. "Beardsley and I could send out invitations to the people of East Liverpool and New Rad." He beamed.
"Well, Warriors, I see that we have a party to prepare for. This is such a good idea Luu Luu, that I believe this will make our young friend feel more welcomed here, and show him that we do care." She looked at Toby with a semi smile. "However my friends, I believe we should always show this child the best of care we can provide, because at his age, he can learn the gift of friendship and grow to remain as our friend." She sighed softly.
"Celestine, is something wrong?" Charles looked at her friend with worry in her eyes.
Celestine calmly shook her head. "No Charles, but what I've seen about humans, some humans, it is horrific what they are capable of doing to people of this world." She frowned as she looked back at the sleeping boy. "I just hope that this young one won't grow up to be like those humans, so it is very important to us to show him the gift of not only friendship, but the love he needs." She leaned her head to nuzzle at his cheek.
"I agree Celestine, this young one deserves a home and family." Charles looked at Toby.
"Oh dear, if I knew that the little one was sad, I wouldn't have pulled that mean prank on him." Bobert frowned, but suddenly snapped his fingers. "You know what, I believe I will throw my name in the hat." With that he put a top hat on his head with a slip of paper with his name written on it above it. "And I will do something special for this gathering." He gave a pouty face toward Celestine. "That is if I am invited." He let out a small whimper.
Celestine chuckled and let out a sigh. "Yes Bobert, you can come." She shook her head slightly as she looked at the Warriors again. "Well, Warriors, it looks like we have a lot to prepare for. I will get the guards to escort you back to East Liverpool." She smiled at all of them and bowed her head.
Charles done the same as he gave them all a smile as well. "It was a pleasure meeting you again my friends and also the little one." He looked at the sleeping child. 'And Kin will have to tell them that they found him soon. I believe I will let then all know when the party takes place.'
"Thank you Celestine and King Charles for allowing us to bring this young one with us to meet you." Connor bowed his head and smiled at Toby. "We all will do our parts to ensure that Toby feels love and welcomed here in East Liverpool."
The Warriors nodded in unison as they all bowed their heads to bid farewell and turned to walk out of the royals' throne room.
"Oh Celestine, I can't wait to have this celebration to welcome the young one to East Liverpool." Charles smiled up at his friend. "I just hope he won't be too overwhelmed with all the guests that will be here and meeting new people." He gave a reluctant smile.
"Worry not my friend, I believe we will have a successful and great time for our young guest." She placed a hand on Charles' shoulder. "Now let's discuss with the chefs to what they could prepare for the party." Charles nodded in agreement as the two walked out of the throne rom towards the kitchen.
Outside, the Warriors were getting into the carriage one by one. "Um.. Claudia... um.. Could you maybe hold Toby until I can get settled in the carriage?" She turned her head to smile warmly at Toby still sleeping peacefully on her back.
"Of course dear." Claudia nodded as she carefully lifted him up and held him. "He is simply adorable when he's sleeping." She gave a warm smile as she looked at him.
After Prim got into the carriage, she sat down as Claudia placed Toby over her. She reached with her arms to take Toby into them and held him in the crook of her left arm. She cradled him close to her chest and leaned down to kiss his forehead. 'Such a precious little one you are Toby. Don't you worry sweetheart, I promise my friends and I will make sure you are always loved and cared for as long as you live here in East Liverpool.' A maternal smile crept across her face as Claudia sat down beside her, and the Nightmares started to fly and head toward East Liverpool.
Catacombs
After they returned to East Liverpool, the Warriors bid each a goodnight and went to their respective rooms.
Connor entered his room. "Beardsley! I'm home." He called out as he heard the minister's feet exiting the room. "How did it go today at the catacombs?" He then saw Shade fly down from up in his bedroom and settle down on his own bed. "Hello to you too Shade."
Shade simply purred and raised a paw to scratch behind his ear.
"Everything went find Connor." Beardsley crossed his arms proudly. "I cleaned the library from bottom to top, re-shelved the books, but this time I placed them in alphabetical order. I also went out to get some extra pencils and pens for your letters." He gave a confident smile.
Connor chuckled and wrapped an arm around the minister. "That is why you are a great minister Beardsley." he said.
After they separated, he looked at Connor. "How did things go in New Rad? Did King Charles and Celestine like Toby?" A hopeful smile crept across his face.
"Yes they did!" He beamed. "And while we were there, we decided that we could throw a party for Toby to welcome in to East Liverpool." He clapped his hands together with excitement.
"Oh, the sounds like a great idea Connor!" Beardsley beamed. "Is there anything I can do to pitch in to help with?" He clapped his hands together.
Connor reached up and patted his head. "Of course you can. I thought we could each send out invitations to the people of East Liverpool to come to the party." He smiled brightly.
"Oh, that sounds like an amazing idea Connor!" He clapped his hands again. "I will get started right away!" He turned to run upstairs, but was caught by Connor. "Hey Connor, what are you doing?" He looked at him with confusion etched on his face.
"Well, Beardsley, I was thinking we could maybe get some soda to drink while we write them. How does that sound?" He asked. He turned to Shade. "Would you like to help as well Shade?"
Shade roared and flapped his wings and he hovered over to the duo.
"Soda sounds good to me Connor." Beardsley chuckled as the trio headed to the kitchen.
Maia's room
"I'm home Spike!" Maia walked into her room as she looked around for her dragon. Soon she heard the chirping of her Nadder, Spike came running into her room, and chirped happily. "Well hey there Spike! How have you been today?" Maia petted the dragon's head.
Claudia's room
"Ahh.. what a day today was." She let out a heavy sigh as she looked around. "Oh Cloudbuster dear, I'm home!" She called out her Nadder as the Nadder walked out of the kitchen and into the room.
Claudia smiled and walked over to him, and patted him from the top of his head to his tail. "Oh Cloudbuster, I have the greatest news! The Warriors, myself, and the royals are going to throw a wonderful celebration for our new friend we've met today." She clapped her hands happily while Cloudbuster simply purred at the petting.
Claudia shook her head as she watched the Nadder react unenthusiastically at the news. "Oh Cloudbuster, why aren't you excited about such an occasion?!" She gave a frown, but Cloudbuster let out a big yawn and motioned over to the stables. Claudia walked over and leaned her head up to give the Nadder a kiss on the cheek. "Goodnight Cloudbuster. I got some work to do upstairs." She stroked along her side one more time before turning to head upstairs.
As she reached her room, she walked over her back to see Toby's old clothes still in it. 'Oh dear, I forgot to get these and take them down to the laundry room to get washed. No matter, I will get them nice and cleaned for the little one to wear again.' She picked up her bag and suddenly something fell out of them and onto the floor. Claudia gasped a little. 'What is that?'
She strapped the bag over her shoulder as she walked over to the fallen object and peered down at it with curiosity. As she examined it, it appeared to be a golden heart-shaped locket with a long chain. 'Hmm... this is a pretty little gem and it looks like it can be opened.' She picked it up with her hands and carefully opened it. Inside on the left was a picture of a blonde-haired woman holding a baby, cradled in her arms as she looked at him lovingly. On the right side was the inscription. "To my precious baby boy, Mommy loves you forever and always."
Claudia gasped and placed a hand against her lips. She felt tears start to prick at her eyes. 'Oh dear, she must be the little dear's mother.' She brought the locket to her chest and closed her eyes to allow a single tear to roll down her cheek. She sniffled, but suddenly a warm smile crept across her face. 'Oh, I know exactly how I can incorporate this into Toby's new outfit. I believe he will absolutely love it! First, I just got to get these old clothes washed and then I can start on my newest creation.' She beamed with glee and exited her room to walk downstairs to the laundry room.
Luu Luu's room
Luu Luu was upstairs getting dressed in her pajamas as Bigjaw watched and blinked his eyes. Luu Luu undid her pigtails with a beaming smile across her face.
"Oh Bigjaw, tomorrow is going to be fun!" She giggled as she turned and walked toward the Gronckle. She grabbed his face and rubbed his cheeks with her hands. "Tomorrow I'm going to get started on making the biggest cake I ever made!" She said excitedly as Bigjaw purred.
After smiling for a while, Luu Luu let out an exaggerated yawn and suddenly plopped herself down on her bed. "For now, let us got to bed Bigjaw!" She kissed his forehead and she fell asleep as Bigjaw headed for the stables.
Kaguya's room
Outside of her room, Kaguya was performing some of her dances such as twirling her fans, spinning around, and squatting down. Her Nadder Yusha was watching her tiredly, yet with a soft smile on her face. Kaguya stopped in front of her. "Well Yusha my friend, what did you think of those? I'm going to give Toby a show that he will never forget!" She smirked proudly and cut a backflip.
"However, these simple moves won't compare to my Dance of the Dragon I plan on showing to the little one!" She chuckled and continued to warm up for her performance. "Come Yushu, let's have some fun before we go in for the night!" She smiled at her friend and she slowly nodded as she followed beside her.
Prim's room
After they returned home, Prim entered her room as quietly as she could so not to disturb Toby as he continued to sleep peacefully underneath her hair. She discovered that her and Alicia's Zippleback were sound except for smoke who purred and saluted with a paw. She smiled warmly down at her other half of her Zippleback. "Hello Smoke." She petted him between his ears.
"Did you and the others have a good day today while we were gone?" She leaned her head to nuzzle his cheek. Smoke simply chittered and nodded. "That's my boy." She giggled. "Now you go on to bed Smoke while I go tuck Toby into bed." Smoke gave another nod and saluted with a paw, and laid down.
After she watched him laid his head down, Prim turned around to walk upstairs to her bedroom. As she reached the top, she walked over to her bed and turned to look at the sleeping child. She very carefully and gently laid him carefully on the bed and pulled the covers over him, and tucked him in comfortably.
She carefully climbed up on the bed and laid down beside him as she placed an arm over him. She leaned her head down to kiss his temple. "Goodnight Toby. I promise my friends and I are going to give you what you deserve, a caring family, friends, and most importantly a loving home." She quietly whispered as she gently laid her head over his and kept him warm.
'Maybe my wish the other night came true. Maybe this precious little one showed up at Sunny's door for me take care of him. However, I just hope we can find out what truly happened to him.' She sighed softly and slowly closed her eyes as she drifted off into a peaceful slumber next to Toby.