Despite the peril and uncertainty surrounding the animals of Third Earth? Felline found herself basking in the beauty of the sunset how the magical copper orb of fire painted the stunning heavens shades of lilac, fuchsia, and orange.It never ceased to amaze her. The sun embodied hope, even when it set still radiated its enchantment. The young leopardess was so captivated by the natural phenomenon she didn't realize someone had joined her."Beautiful, isn't it?" spoke a kind voice that caused the young cat to jump. Quickly turning, she saw it was Lion-o, King of the ThunderCats. However, he was still far from the vision of a monarch than his father was. Even after all their breakneck undertakings, they'd been on to reclaim the Power Stones and thwart Mumm-Ra? His face still held the image of his youth and wonder.Hence he hadn't been physically hardened by their treacherous quest. She smiled before scooting closer and replying, "Yes, it is quite captivating. Before moving to Thundara, my sister and I used to watch the sunset together.This time of day? Everything in the world is at peace, that we can appreciate life's simple pleasures. To be able to count our blessings. Then when daybreak ascends, we witness this miracle again.""We haven't had many moments of peace since the fall of our empire, have we?" he asked forlornly.He didn't notice she laid her hand over his to comfort him. "No, we have not. Still, we should try to take joy in these fleeting moments. As the sun descends, I find only my good memories awash my mind," gazing wistfully at the sun. She said before speaking quietly, "Of a simpler time before the pain that wrought my family apart. Before all heartache and loss we've endured. I find myself simultaneously joyful and melancholy."Lion-o then squeezed her hand before answering. "I find myself too in these fleeting moments of peace, Felline. I think back on my youth and when my father was still alive. I don't see the world torn apart any more than my heart in my dreams.""Lion-o, we both know misery and anguish are a part of life. They build us up to be stronger. If we never knew sorrow, we'd never understand joy. It doesn't make it hurt any less. But what doesn't kill us makes us stronger.""Do you believe we're still strong enough to save this world? And all who call it home?""Let's not wonder about the future, Lion-o. Instead, let's appreciate this moment of peace. Let's not think about the what-ifs or past regrets. Instead, let's live in this moment." The two young cats gazed at each other before leaning into a kiss. Yes, the sunset was a magical time without a doubt.

Kaksha sat at a sewing machine in the private workroom at Lady Luck. She was in the process of finalizing the final three outfits for her mini showcase collection for Clover. She'd taken a lot of inspiration from some of her favorite Deviantart artists who did outfit designs. Namely AlbinosDoll and Brillantezza.She'd done her own spin on a few hoodies and jeans designs AlbinosDoll did. Her showstopper piece was based on one of the gowns Brillantezza had done. She'd make sure to notify Clover where she acquired her ideas from. Plus, send the artists a copy to demonstrate she acknowledged them.Estella poked her head into the room to check on the sixteen-year-old. "Kaksha?" The Indian teen looked up, "Yes, Estella?" The redhead grinned before answering. "It's lunchtime. The rest of the girls wanted to know if you'd fancy joining us for lunch. We're going to that new multinational cuisine restaurant that opened a month ago.""Well, I could use a break. Let me quickly put my things away before I join you." "I'll help speed up the process by helping you," with Estella's help, the private workroom was cleaned up and locked, so no one swiped Kaksha's designs.Kaksha loved the food the restaurant offered. Yet she still felt uncomfortable eating lunch with people ten to fifteen years older. Luckily all the designers were exceptionally amiable and treated her kindly.They chitchatted a little regarding work before it turned towards everyone's love lives. Kaksha felt grateful that her new co-workers were accepting she was pan-sexual. Given her old-fashion parents, who were stark traditionalists? They hadn't been pleased when their daughter divulged she was pan-sexual. Or her dreams to be a fashion designerHer parents didn't embrace the modern-day world. They lived firmly in the past and thus refused to live in the present day. Most Indian parents would've admired the idea of a fashion designer for a daughter.However, they didn't embrace what individuals wore in today's world. On the contrary, they regarded it as indecent. Consequently, her parents didn't approve of or support her dream. Those had been two reasons she'd filed for emancipation. Better to be emancipated then disowned. However, they had presumably disowned her anyway.It did fill her with sorrow. Her parents couldn't accept who she was. But, hopefully, she'd be able to build a more satisfactory life for herself now. She already had some excellent companions, so that's a plus.After lunch, they returned to the workroom. Kaksha went back to finalizing her showstopper piece. She dubbed it the phoenix gown because the coloring and details remind her of one. She remained so intent on finishing she again didn't notice someone had walked in. Not till they declared, "Hello, Kaksha! How are you doing?"Kaksha jumped but thankfully hadn't ruined the dress. Once she had her breathing under control, she looked up to see Aleena. "Hello, Aleena. Nice to see you. What brings you here?""Well, my other friends are occupied. Bonnie got clarinet practice, and Ananda is assisting at the homeless shelter. Plus, my figure skating lessons got canceled. So I came down here to keep you company. That's an outstanding gown, by the way. I adore this captivating shade of red. Is that the fabric's original color, or did you dye something to get this shade of red?""I did some dying to get this particular shade of red, yes. However, as you can see, it was worth the effort. So tell me, what's your opinion on the garments on the rack?"The preteen strolled over before meticulous inspecting each piece. "Hmm, well, I've to say you've done an excellent job assembling a collection for various body types. It's noteworthy that its a variety of apparel for different body types and budgets. However, that's what makes it so unique.These awesome hoodies and jeans would look outstanding on multiple people that I can genuinely see anyone wearing. Also, I'd admire this asymmetrical gold top with the short burgundy skirt.""Thanks, Aleena. I did my most suitable to conceive my own prints. I also utilized specialized equipment to construct a few of the accessories.""Well, I'd say you've done an exceptional job. So, how are you doing? Is Juliana alright? According to my friend Ananda? She heard from her parents, who hold high positions at the medical institution where Juliana will be starting shortly.""Yes, she'll be on the job at the hospital next week. She's a prodigy when it comes to the medical field. So, therefore, I hope she enjoys working in the healthcare facility.""Well, Ananda's mother is an ER physician, and her father is Chief of Surgery. So she's in good hands," Aleena assured her new friend. "That's nice to know. Any more news about moving up to high school?""Not yet. The only thing I know for certain is Bonnie's older brother Brody been assigned to mentor and assist me with the adjustment.""Hmm, what's her brother like?" Kaksha asked curiously, not having met him yet."Brody is quite attractive and focused on his academics. Bonnie states he's an incredible big brother and helps around the house quite a bit. He works part-time with his father Trent at the family car dealership. He's an excellent mechanic. When he's not studying or tutoring? He loves to revitalize old automobiles with his father.""Hmm, sounds like he's quite a likable young man.""Yes, he is. He's friendly, patient, and level-headed. I also already know one of the teachers at Bev High.""Oh?""Yes, Bonnie's mother Molly teaches foreign languages. She's a polyglot since she can speak multiple languages.""Well, you'll be in good hands when you transfer.""It also sounds like your roommate is in good hands as well. What about yourself? Do you feel apprehensive about displaying your mini collection to Mom next week?""I'd be lying if I didn't say I've got big butterflies in my stomach from all this.""Well, I've faith in you, Kaksha. So far, you've been a fantastic friend. Plus, you and Juliana have been outstanding big sisters figures for my friends and me.""Well, I'm thrilled to hear that. I don't have any siblings of my own. I also didn't have many friends before I became emancipated," she confessed sadly. Aleena didn't like that look. So she replied gently. "You know you can tell me more when you feel comfortable. I need to work on my patience anyway.""Thanks, Aleena, I genuinely do mean that. Can your mother give me a lift back to my apartment? I already know I've missed the bus.""Sure, we can do that. Do you have any errands you need to be done before we take you home? I'm familiar that its challenging to do specific errands without a car.""Well, I do need to get some supplies and groceries. We're low on a few things, and Juliana doesn't have time to go get them.""Okay, I'll go inform Mom we'll be helping you with a few errands. I'll be back in half an hour, okay?" Aleena smiled as she bounced out of the room. True to her world, Aleena returned a half-hour later. Kaksha asked if she could assist in finishing a few details on some of the outfits. Aleena wasn't a fashion Mongol daughter for nothing.She'd been sewing since she was three. So assisting her new friend finish up her mini collection was easy. Around five-thirty, Clover came to collect both of them. Clover kept her promise of helping Kaksha to do her errands. She also informed her if she or Juliana required assistance in the future? She'd be more then delighted to help them out.Kaksha thanked her new boss as they went the extra mile to help her bring the items into the apartment. Then, they stayed a bit longer before going home. Clover, Aleena, and Estella had a mini runway show for Kaksha's collection the following week. They're quite satisfied with what they witnessed.Clover couldn't wait to have each piece ready for sale. Estella declared she'd take Kaksha on as her apprentice. Aleena couldn't be more joyful for her friend/big sister! They went out for dinner to celebrate, and everything was perfect.

Only the flickering glow from the hearth lit up the entire sprawling mansion. A handsome young couple lay curled up nearby, with a young child asleep between them. The wife was a breathtaking beauty, with porcelain skin and flowing bluish-white hair. Her husband's features, while handsome still, remained sharply cold. It seemed that his icy exterior had a ways to go before they thawed thoroughly.Between them was their gorgeous young daughter. Yet, she remained the spitting image of her mother. The sleeping young child clutched a handcrafted toy of her father's favorite Duel Monster tightly. The child had faint scars still visible on her arms. It reminded them of the harrowing ordeals they were put through not too long ago.Kisara gently stroked her daughter Uta's braided hair before facing Seto's husband. He appeared to be still lost in a world of his own. "Seto? Are you alright?" she whispered to her husband. They're whispering because Uta hadn't been sleeping well recently. So they're doing all they could not wake her when she did nod off.Her husband's dark blue eyes eventually broke their stern gaze from the blaze before turning to face his reborn true love. Those cobalt orbs were overshadowed by pain and anger. Yet he kept his voice soft again not to rouse their child. "I've been thinking, Kisara," he started only for her to interject seriously, "I do hope its not regarding some ridiculous title or soulless establishment."Yes, that has continuously been an issue. The couple quarreled over how Kaiba remained overly obsessed with a ludicrous card game or his soulless business enterprise. He didn't stop to consider the consequences of his supercilious comments and actions. Which ultimately paved the way for karma to pay him back painfully.For they'd nearly lost their daughter, who tried to commit suicide due to being endlessly tortured by those her sire hurt. Some individuals need an extreme wake-up call to their actions. Thus nearly losing his daughter due to his actions? It ultimately got the world's biggest jackass to pull his fat head out of his fat ass.When you find out your eleven-year-old daughter nearly offed herself due to you? It gives you a harsh blow of reality, and you start realizing where the hell your priorities need to be! Once Uta was released from the hospital, the family attended therapy together. They're gradually making headway, except no one changes overnight. For genuine healing to even begin, you had to acknowledge the problem.Seto Kaibutt (Joey gave him that nickname) had been forced to confront his most destructive demons. So it was a step in the right direction. But, unfortunately, it could take decades to restore the bonds with the damage he'd sowed.Now he felt guilty every time he looked at his daughter's eyes. How foolish he'd been! He remained doubtfully he could ever change to be both the husband and father he needed to be. "I don't want to lose you or Uta, Kisara. I pray its not too late to make up for my mistakes. Still, its only been half a year since we almost lost her. I cannot bear to lose either of you.""Seto, you'd been hardened by life circumstances. That's true, but you've to choose to move past the hurt and become a more satisfactory person. You've made slow but steady progress.""But is it too late?" he couldn't help but ask aloud. His wife took his hands into hers before smiling angelically at him. "Uta is alive, and we are still together, and it's together we shall overcome all our hardships. So please concentrate on the light that is your family, then you shall not return to the darkness," as she cradled his face in her hand."I hope you're right, my darling. I hope you are right," as they kissed and cradled their beloved daughter closer to them. Only time can bring change but remember you have to acknowledge the issues. Then afterward, work towards amending it. Life is a continuous struggle of ups and downs. But we cannot lose hope and try to fight to be the best person we can be.

Magdalene Masters stood in front of her full-size pewter mirror. For the last hour, she'd been trying on assorted outfits while her daughters conveyed their opinions on them. Her anniversary remained only a few days away. Every anniversary either Mag or Vlad would surprise the other. This year was Vlad's turn to surprise Mag with whatever he'd arranged for their anniversary. They gave each other slight hints of what they'd planned. So they wouldn't be over or underdressed for the occasion. Vlad had disclosed to his wife that she should wear something nice but casual. Wherever they were going didn't require any formal attire, simply something nice but comfortable. Mag turned from the mirror, holding up an outfit."Okay, girls, do you think this one will do?" she held up a soft gray shirt with a bit of lacing to it. The pants were ebony and lightweight, with comfy shoes to go with them."I like it, Mom. It's nice looking and seems comfortable," Jazz replied honestly. The red-haired teenager truthfully wasn't one to fuss regarding apparel herself. Nevertheless, she wanted to help her mother out. Not that she felt her mother required much help with her clothing. Magdalene Masters was one of those individuals who looked fabulous in anything."I believe if you wore a matching headband and studs, it'd be perfect, Mom. But, then, you can wear either a simple necklace or a bracelet to dress it up more. Not sure if I'd do both, though," Danielle replied, eyeing her mother's jewelry box sitting on the nearby vanity."Hmm, I believe you're both correct. As for accessories? I'll wear my imitation diamond studs and my gold cross necklace," as she hung up the outfit. Then she turned back towards her daughter before asking, "So where is your brother right now? Please tell me he didn't shut himself in the observation tower again. I understand he's passionate about outer space. However, I'd like him to be a bit more grounded," as the girls laughed at their mother's word choice."I believe he and Dad went into town to acquire something for your anniversary. I'm not entirely certain, but I believe that's where they're at," answered Jazz."Alright. Now you two should get to the music conservatory. Danny may be cutting music practice, but you two are not," their mother informed them. So, nodding, the girls went to rehearse their flute and violin. Even though they preferred having Danny play the piano when they practiced. However, seeing how he was out, they only had their instruments.An hour and a half later, Vlad and Danny returned. Magdalene straightaway sent Danny to the music chamber to do his hour's worth of practice before dinner. He went without objection. Mag then turned to her husband, who promptly kissed her. As they caressed each other, she eventually whispered."Vlad, darling, did you truthfully require our son to help you with your errand? The children have music practice every other day from four to five. So now we'll have to push dinner back so Danny can get his practice in.""Darling, I highly doubt missing one day of practice is going to impact Daniel's proficiency to play the piano." Mag scowled, so he promptly added, "Yes, I needed a bit of assistance. After all, our daughters were assisting you in selecting your attire. In addition, I required our son's aid with picking out which champagne to celebrate with. After all, you know how busy the regional liquor store can be at this time of day."Again, Mag frowned. "Honey, please remember we don't want to set a bad example for the children. I don't mind having an alcoholic beverage for specific social occasions. However, I don't desire our children to consider it acceptable to drink around the clock.""I thoroughly understand, Mag. But, unfortunately, I required a bit of extra assistance to uncover a bottle of high-grade champagne.""Okay, as long as you understand my wishes. Our beloved daughters helped me pick the perfect attire for the day after tomorrow. So we're good to go.""That's fantastic, Mag. Before you ask? I have already arranged for a professional gymnastics team to perform for Danielle's birthday. Trust me. She'll enjoy it.""I'm sure she will. Considering she'll get to meet her heroes for her 12th birthday. Speaking of which, I better help her pick out her outfit for her party. Unlike Jazz, who could care less regarding her wardrobe? Our youngest is keener on being fashionable.""Understood. I'll go put this away where the children can't get to it," indicating the bottle of champagne he picked up. Then, with a final kiss, each went their own way.Two days later, Mag was at a concert staring her favorite Christian musical group, "Casting Crowns." They were performing all her favorite songs, and she sincerely enjoyed herself. After the show, they went home to snuggle around the open fireplace while savoring their exceptional champagne.Sincerely a marvelous anniversary.

A glorious sunrise bathed the Scottish kingdom of DunBroch. The realm had been relatively peaceful for several years now. The four clans remained firmly united and had spent the last decade and a half building a stronger domain than ever before.Queen Merida and her consort King Darrow wisely governed the thriving domain for eleven years. Merida had selected Darrow after a chance encounter in the woods. He wasn't manly in any way. However, possessed a brilliant mind, a good sense of humor, and best of all? He wasn't a member of any of the clans. Instead, he'd been a young man who lived in the woods and did his own thing.These characteristics had been what attracted Merida. The clans surprisingly hadn't quarreled with the fact Merida hadn't chosen one of their sons. Instead, they accepted she'd determined for herself who was most suitable.The couple had a young daughter called Ophelia. Darrow had selected her name, for it was his late mother's name. Ophelia considerably resembled her mother. The only distinction was her long red hair was straight. Moreover, she had dark brown eyes like her father. Ophelia inherited her mother's wild spirit and mastery of archery. From her father, she had gotten his sense of humor.Today the nine-year-old princess stood in the stables grooming her steed while chatting with her best friend. A quirky lass called Brystal. People dubbed her an oddball due to her unkempt appearance. Plus the fact she showed up out of nowhere. No one genuinely knew anything concerning her. Thus, the rumor mill ran rampant.She was around the same age as Ophelia. Brystal's longish raven hair remained an entangled mess. She consistently had twigs and leaves stuck in her chaotic locks. Her garments were frayed and filthy as she was. Plus, she didn't like wearing shoes at all. The only jewelry she wore was a jasper pendant.Still, Ophelia loved having her around. Given she found a breath of fresh air from the others around her. Brystal was her best friend, and they considered each other sisters."So, Brystal, what have you been up to this past week? Since I've not seen you in a week," as they each groomed one side of her horse.Brystal paused in her grooming, thinking for a few moments before saying, "Not much, frankly. Granny is still driving me up a wall. I don't particularly appreciate it when I get dumped at Granny's.While I'm stuck at Granny's? Mom gets to go who knows where to uncover everything she needs for her occupation as the local herbalist! Ugh! Its so unjust!" she sulked angrily."I've never understood why you found your granny to be so irritating," giggled Ophelia, which made Brystal's inky blue eyes narrow. Of course, the girls always teased each other in a friendly way, as friends and sisters do. However, there were some days neither was in the mood for it. Today was one of those days."You know how crazy my Granny is, Ophelia! All she cares about is crafting bear-themed objects! It gets boring quickly! I'm fortunate I can escape here for a few hours when she's occupied.""So your mother an herbalist, and your Granny a woodcarver. Is there anything you want to be?" the young princess asked curiously."I'd rather explore the world. See what else is out there. If I'm going to discover my skill? I'm more then certain I need to go out there to find it!" gesturing towards the far-off cliffs."I'd love to see the world with you, Brystal. I honestly would. Heart-pounding adventures into the unknown? Much more exhilarating for sure," she sighed for a moment before continuing."You know how Mom's lax about grooming me to be queen? Mom doesn't want to be like my overly strict grandmother. I want to forge my own destiny as well. However, right now? That's just a dream.""It sure would be nice to get out of here. I'm exhausted from the endless gossiping regarding me. It's not like I haven't heard all the wisecracks and gossip concerning me.""I know some people call you feral. Not a child but an animal. That you must have been hatched not born with the way you act.""The tribes dub me a cursed child—Devil's spawn. Like I'm going to plunge the realm into eternal darkness or something," she hissed angrily."I don't consider you a cursed child. You're yourself as untamed as the very land surrounding us. You speak your mind and embrace your differences," Ophelia assured her best friend with a smile."I wish more people were like that. It was challenging enough for the kingdom to learn to break tradition by deciding who to love. I still hear horror stories regarding the time Mom cursed Grandmother," shuddering for a moment.Brystal frowned before answering quickly, "It's not like my Granny intended to cause chaos for your kingdom. It's just her witchcraft is bear-themed! Plus, she finds her hexes an ingenious method to teach people lessons.""Shush, you said you didn't want anyone to know that!" Ophelia warned, quickly glancing around. Thankfully they're alone for the time being. For it was true. Brystal was the witch's granddaughter. However, Brystal herself was only a witchling, signifying she hadn't discovered her gift yet. Therefore, she couldn't begin any formal training until she did.Brystal's mother, Ainsley's endowment, lied with nature mysticism. As a herbalist, she could harness nature's blessings for healing magic. Brystal wasn't keen to discover her gift. It wasn't that she didn't want to uncover her gift. Instead, she wasn't ready to find out how her gift was a curse. One of the first things she'd confined in Ophelia was all gifts of sorcery are both a blessing and a curse.Right now, she wasn't anxious to find out. Particularly with the anniversary of the Bear Curse coming up. She desired to remain as low-key as possible until that had passed. "Sorry, I got careless. You know it happens sometimes.""Whenever you're in a foul mood, yes. So, any more information regarding locating your missing uncle?""You mean my mother's twin brother? No luck there, I'm afraid. I've never met him, of course. I know the story, though. My mother and uncle were about five years old. Granny took them out to help her find some wood to carve. But, unfortunately, a freak windstorm came up, and in the chaos, my uncle was lost.""Is there anything you do know regarding your uncle?""He was five when he vanished, Ophelia. I'm not even convinced he's alive since its been so long. However, Granny insisted he's alive and says she know if my uncle's wizardry died.""What was your uncle's gift?""He hadn't discovered it yet when he got lost. So I don't know. Mom and Granny won't even tell me his name.""Well, I hope one day we will uncover him. It would certainly make your family happy if we did.""I'm sure it would. I think your steed is groomed sufficiently. Want to sneak some sweets from the kitchen? We could get some and then go to our hideaway.""That be sweet! No pun intended!" she laughed. Quickly Ophelia figured out a scheme to sneak the sweets. She'd learned quite a bit from her triplet uncles. Once they secured enough sweets, the girls headed off to their hidden treehouse to eat them in peace. After they arrived, Brystal pulled out an ancient flute. It had belonged to her uncle and was all they'd left of him. Brystal played the song called "Badge."It was a little ditty her uncle made up. Only using the notes that made up the word "Badge." Despite her young age and lack of formal training, she was quite talented playing it."Hmm, Brystal, that was beautiful. You got a good ear for music. I mean, I've heard you play everything from the known songs to the ones nature itself sings.""Music comes easily to me. It's like I can hear the true music all around me," she agreed."Do you think perhaps music is your magical gift? I mean, have you ever tried to see if your music does something?""No, I've not, but maybe your right. Music is something I enjoy and feel most alive when doing. However, how do we test your theory?""Hmm, well, my dad enjoys music. It soothes him. Maybe you can perform for us tonight. See if anything happens?""I'm not sure the housekeepers would permit me into the castle. But, again, they view me as a freak of nature.""I'll make sure to let you in, and it'll just be my parents and me. Mom has no objection to you. So I doubt Dad would either.""Well, only one way to find out," as they began to plot. A few hours later, they put the plan into motion. Unaware of what was about to transpire. Neither girl realized that Brystal's grandmother and mother attempted to locate her. They weren't knowledgeable of Brystal's friendship with Ophelia. She'd kept that secret from them.Ophelia also was ignorant that Brystal hadn't informed her clan. Her parents were the only people in her own family who knew Brystal was her best friend. Which was why she felt so sure they'd agree to test out the magical music theory.As soon as twilight began, Brystal started playing "Badge." As she played the melody, her jasper charm began to gleam brightly. It was getting brighter with each note of that hauntingly beautiful melody.The invisible sound waves became enchanted with the witchling's magic. Anyone listening to her music was unexpectedly recalling long-forgotten memories. By the time she'd finished? The girls were in for a shock because she'd help Ophelia's father retrieve his lost childhood memories. The second he remembered, Darrow's mother and twin sister showed up!It turned out the best friends were cousins! Now that the families had reunited, who knew what adventures lay in store for them?