"I can't get this damn tie tied," Snow Miser hissed in frustration.
Snow Miser, Tingler, and Nina were getting themselves ready for the celebration. It was a bit crowded in the little guest house, but the three didn't have many problems moving around each other.
"Here, let me see it," Tingler told him, then got in front of him. Snow bent down so Tingler could reach the tie, and he patiently tied it. "There, you go."
Snow kissed his lips. "Thank you. I'm not used to going out in a suit."
"You'll have to do that more often," Tingler said, blushing.
"Oh, so you can get more kisses, right?" Snow joked.
Nina laughed, and Snow Miser came up behind her. "I'll put your necklace on you, my snow angel."
Nina held still while her husband put her snowflake necklace around her neck. She looked at herself in a mirror and stated, "I hope we won't be overdressed."
Tingler finished putting a bow tie on and said, "I don't think we will be. We were told to wear our best clothes."
"You two don't have anything to worry about," Snow assured them. "You'll be the best-looking ones there."
The Sound Imp blushed again, and Nina giggled. "You're laying the compliments on thick, aren't you, sweetie?"
Snow hugged and kissed them both. "I'm just telling the truth; I'm a lucky man to have such good-looking lovers."
"I'm not used to getting such compliments," stated Tingler, his cheeks red.
Nina held his hands. "Snowy is good at flattering people. In this case, he's not exaggerating; we do look nice. We all do."
"So, are we ready?" Snow asked.
"Definitely," Nina said, and the three of them walked to the castle.
Inside, everyone on the island was gathered together, talking loudly. The throne room was decorated with streamers and various homemade trinkets. It looked cozy and charming, and the guests were lively and looked their best in their finery.
"Welcome, friends!" Rudolph beamed to Nina, Snow Miser, and Tingler.
"Our guests have arrived," King Moonracer announced, directing everyone's attention to them. "Now, we will begin the celebration."
After some joyful chattering, he spoke again. "10 years ago this day, the Island of Misfits was established. It is not the island itself that is special, but our bonds of friendship we have formed. Despite adversities, we have come together to make a close-knit community, and that is worthy of celebration. Let it begin!"
Chatter erupted again, and everyone danced. Those who could eat and drink did so. There was a small table with rich food and beverages. Everyone made merry, and the guests joined in.
Suddenly, some of the toys surrounded Nina, Snow Miser, and Tingler, pointing weapons at them. They stopped dancing and looked around, confused. "What is this?" Nina asked, looking at King Moonracer.
His expression was stoic. "I know of your plan, and you will not get far. Take them to the dungeon."
Snow Miser formed two balls of ice in his hands. "We're not going anywhere. I'm not letting you lay a finger on them."
Trying to stay calm, Nina put a hand on Snow Miser's arm. "Snow Miser, no. It's just going to escalate things."
Snow glared but relented. Unarmed and without protest, the three were escorted to the castle's dungeon.
