The heat of a candle permeated the long hallway as silence remained its companion. The walls bore streaks of red and brown as the decorations made themselves bare and recognizable to the not yet present denizens of the area. A large room with an extended table filled partially with servings of various foods. Carved on and about the area seemed to be prepared to serve an extended party of guests, nonetheless by none other than the native caretakers.

The lights were low as per usual on special occasions as small shufflings now broke the silence. Organization was continuing despite not another guest soul wandering. Preparing the area for the other incoming guests soon to arrive of course. Finely wood carved tables and seats, polished down with an almost angelic shine, fabrics lined up with the smoothness of thread and butter.

“Ace!!!” --- A fair young feminine voice called out from down the hall.

“What is it now?” --- A male retorted. Not agitated mind you, just a simply retort.

“I think a few more ribbons should go up by the wall on the other end”.

“Are you sure? I think we have quite the collection already”.

“Never hurt to consider it”

“Ok, ok I’ll get on it”

The two speaking were none other than at least the main tenants. Ace was a 7’4 Squirrel, a fur of vivid fall red remaining until the next month or so. His dressings were more formal than usual for holidays or celebrations, thanksgiving being no exception. His aid and love interest, Tiara, an 8’4 Lynxtaur with a mid-size body all around though, being no slouch in the beauty and looks department. Ace was more of an additional caretaker around these parts, Tiara being a stronger owner of the property. This did not nonetheless prevent them from organizing.

The orphanage had been empty this time around, as thanksgiving for its inhabitants was held slightly earlier than usual. Mind you it was still as formal as ever, but for now the large building laid empty save for its current two occupants. Luckily most preparations filled themselves in order, given the normally large population residing in the building complex, preparing for external guests wasn’t too much of a worry for the mammalian pair. The work was nevertheless diligent to ensure guests were comfortable as any host would have it.

Ace proceeded, ribbons in hand to lay ever more decorative apparel amongst the area. One would think given the sharpness of his claws that this would be a difficult task. However it was rather as simple as ever, considering the physical look of it all anyway. Tiara labored on an opposite side, dealing with sanitation and silverware as the foundations became more solid for the two hosts. This would be an eventful thanksgiving than many of the coming would indeed enjoy.

“So when do you think they’ll be here?” --- Tiara Pondered.

“Knowing the occasion, they should be here rather soon by my book” --- Ace freely replied.

“That is true I suppose” – She chuckled. “Any concrete estimates?”

“Half an hour at tops by my watch. Let’s try to get this all done and be ready before they arrive though.”

“Absolutely. It’ll be done.”

Small chat helped the ever working pair to somewhat focus and maintain order in the organization. It was also rather calming, as the guests were rather sporadic at times if one could describe them as such. A wild bunch with outgoing personalities and guests both hosts knew quite well. Ace was the introductory in this case, meeting all of the mentioned before Tiara did, but relationships did not change. If anything, Tiara held the more stable and amusing relationships in terms of conversation and interaction.

“It was quite nice of you to invite them all over here” Tiara continued.

“I suppose it was kinda better all-around considering how big your place is” Ace replied.

“Well, when you stop using that brain of yours and come to terms with your niceness” She smirked in reply.

“I’m not a total robot” Ace groaned in response.

“I know silly”

“You think this is good?” Ace asked again.

“Considering the population that should be enough. We’re almost done around here”.

The total time had nearly equaled a day’s worth of preparations. Between emptying, cleaning and other tasks the fruits were almost upon them to unlock. Ace was more of a direct operator here, performing tasks, Tiara taking a more traditionally seated role of direction and design. The colors were of blended reds, yellows, and browns, heavily signifying the height of the season. The food had obviously not been forgotten but merely made in concert with all other preparations.

“Anything else we need” Ace quickly spoke while surveying.

“Not as far as I know. Other than the seats, the food was the main worry.” Tiara firmly replied.

“Of course, always the food that carries worry” Ace grumbled.

“Oh I could tell that really worried you” She retorted with audible chuckling.

“The time of season didn’t exactly help you know”

“Yes Yes I am aware of your popularity. I enjoy it myself to doncha know”

Ace responded with a sigh and made the finishing touches on the varied colors of ribbon ornaments and such. Tiara broke a jokingly toothed smile and returned to surveying the area of festival to ensure the quality was of the highest standard. Time as far as they knew it was almost up and finalizing needed to occur. Tiara worked quickly ensuring that all the presentation basics were met one final time.

The first knocks were heard on the door as both working heads immediately dropped their work and prepared to greet the guests. Ace made sure to tighten his cloth slightly and straighten his posture for good measure. Tiara simply made a quick check and proceeded to sway her way casually towards the door with Ace slightly behind in tow. Another knock graced the door as the two slowly picked up their greetings pace. Finally at the door, Tiara took initiative and turned the doorknob finally allowing visual contact between the two parties.

“Hello Everyone!” Bombshell, the traditional first spoke, allowing hir cubs to squeeze right by and into the domain area.

“Hello to you too! Thanks for coming along with us” Tiara retorted as Bombshell was first allowed inside.

Nods quickly exchanged between the two following foxtaur sisters Shawni and Zenna as a formal greeting. Small hugs were also offered between the two. Chakat Bombshell was of a snow leopard variety. The foxtaur sisters bearing their namesake in appearance as per expectance. The Chakat cubs were also for all intents and purposes varying in appearance given their varied raisings. Least not be forgetting others such as the hermdog Clover, or Candy the Alien as well. Alas these were but the first guests.

Another Chakat approached, bearing a darker pelt and readily identifiable fangs. This was mistdancer, another strong acquaintance, noted for hir combat and sabertooth build.

“Well well well, I suppose there’s a first time for everything” Shi snickered giving joking looks to the pair.

“Gotta start somewhere with these things” Tiara chuckled in reply.

Mistdancer seemingly amused with a response proceeded inside, both the pair receiving their hugs and greetings.

“Hiya you two! Long time no see!” Spoke the third amongst the Chakats, sporting rich orange colors for hir pelt. Chakat Tailswisher, amongst the first and oldest of Ace’s first meets during offworld travel.

“Good to see you again with us Swish” Came the casual reply from Ace. “In the season as ever I see.” He snickered.

“Oh you know it”

The three gathered and greeted as per the past chakats as well before turning further attention to the still remaining guests.

Yet another challenger approached the scene in the form of Chakat Fleetfoot. Slim in build and quick on hir feet, resembling direct cheetah appearance.

“There’s no way I could miss this of all days” Shi smirked

“I figured you couldn’t” Ace retorted

Quick handshakes and hugs befell the greetings pairs.

The group wasn’t small by any means, Bombshells cubs and extended family was far from small in numbers. Indeed, even if the group were small, if there was a notorious truth, it was that taurs could consume mountains of edible food. The table evidently being presented was the first destination for everyone attending, save for the hosts. Ace and Tiara firstly approached the kitchen to retrieve their prepared foods.

The process was relatively quick and efficient for the amount that was prepared and had to be served. Everyone was quite good with their manners, even if a few of the cubs were slightly impatient, no major egression was crossed. It was all to start before one knew it. Granted small clapping was held for such quick progression indeed, for everyone at the table was no doubt waiting to begin feasting.

It was quite the calm moment despite these present feelings. Hands were extended and held and the group recited a non-specific version of traditional thanks for the occasion. Cubs in this case were better behaved considering how close it exactly was. Indeed, such a time was great for all involved.

The silence after initial givings was somewhat perplexing in few ways. All attendees were expected to dig in like there was no tomorrow, yet it was not the case. Everyone sat and was either looking at each other or simply beholding at the extended variety of dishes to be had. Turkey, pies, sauces, stuffing, rices, and all sorts of other delicacies abound. A few sniffs were heard round the table as slowly but surely those who could not wait began to dig in.

Conversations ranged in topic, wandering here and there but remaining appropriate for the situation. Admittedly, the air of mischievous behavior still loomed in voice and expression. Questions abound from all over times or experiences flourished, and again some wandering around via the small teasing gracing the table. However the mood remained positive and happy.

Time was moving quite rapidly, no small part into of course due to the amusement occurring. Present food was also finished quite alarmingly as to seemingly make up for the time. As had been expected, the taurs had fulfilled expected food quotas. Visible meals were getting quite low, and the smell of deserts began to seep in from the kitchen into the dining room. Tiara gave a small gesture and shove towards Ace, who was just finishing his meal to signify.

“Ace would you mind coming to help me with the kitchen?”

“Nope, I’ll be right there” replied he, who immediately afterwards rose from his seat, quickly being dwarfed by his much larger love.

He gave a quick nod, “Be right back with desserts guys.”

“Ok” was the unanimous response.

With that he accompanied Tiara to the kitchen and began to take as much of the sweets as possible. Tiara followed in rhythm as the large presence of smell became pretty overwhelming. Together they continued making trips into the kitchen, each load being distributed faster than the last. No one had touched their desserts yet however. The group had seemingly decided to wait to all was presented to make a choice.

As Ace was about to sit down, his attention was called but one last time.

“Ace! Just a sample drink if you will over here?” called Tiara.

“On my way” came the retort.

Ace proceeded to once more remove himself from the table and proceeded towards the kitchen, quite relaxed even by his standards. Today had been generally a good day. Just labor intensive, but what day of his life wasn’t? He proceeded with firm hasted through the outlying doors leading to the kitchen.

“What’s the drink?”

“Special for this day and only on this day. Just need your opinion.”

“Hmmm, alright let me at it.”

Taking the glass and giving a small inspection and even brief sniff, it seemed like any other drink to him.

“Maybe it’s in the taste.”

He raised the glass and took a small gulp of the liquid content, Tiara sitting back and seemingly waiting for the final say.

“This stuff is good! But jeez does it pack quite the punch…ughhh”

Tiara tilted her head and calmly approached, “You don’t look to good, and perhaps it was a bit too strong.”

“Nonsense…err, I’m… ughhh, ehhh, fine.”

“No you aren’t”

No more words were exchanged, as Ace slumped over on a collision course with the floor. Tiara gracefully moved to intercede such a meeting, catching him before the impact. His eyes were almost shut at this point, as he continued rambling away some gibberish. She leaned over and gave a small cold nose kiss for a moment, seeing his eyes shut completely as sleep beset him.

She carefully began to make her way to one of the separate rooms of dining. Prodded by a few following heads. She looked back with a small gleeful sigh.

“Where are you going with that” Prodded Fleetfoot.

“Just real quick prep is all. Need to get him out of these first and dress him more nicely” She replied gesturing at the inquisitor like cloth.

“We can help with that if you need any” Tailswisher jokingly replied.

“I think I’m good on my own, you just make sure you guys are all set. His new change of clothes you’ll see, but the nakedness changing remains for my eyes alone” Tiara spoke

“Universal law of dibs at work, and none of you even called to help. I am disappoint.” Mistdancer called out.

“Just the way it is” Tiara retorted.

“Well, just don’t forget to not spoil while you’re in there” Bombshell replied half heartedly.

The audible sound of laughter at the suggestion filled the room, as Tiara proceeded to a vertical room, with a silhouette like door. Not surprisingly the chakat guests followed the pair. None stepped into the room, wishing to keep a more low profile as a small light lit the room and shadows appeared. The fencing at the door forbade anyone from directly observing anything that went inside the room. They could only observe the actions of the shadows and draw their own conclusions.

The light provided a smooth ambience as the guests outside the room observed the now moving shadows. Smooth as silk were the moves and calm were the sounds as anyone and everyone eyed this as if they were in a movie theater. They could see, hats and additional equipment was the first to go off. More ruffling could be heard as the movements were still methodological. Attention remained on the unseen participants.

The second layers were now coming off. Basic cloth on the overlay, the cape-like robe as well as Tiara placed them on the side. Chakats outside made their presence known with some stronger snickers. Tiara nonetheless continued as very few articles of any clothes remained. She proceeded to lay aside his weapon and fluff him up a bit. Though to her amusement and surprise there was but on more article.

Out of all she expected to see, boxers were not one of them. A brief facepalm later she began the final step of the arduous process. At this point snickers were on the verge of becoming outright laughter on the outside of the door beyond eyes. They knew at this point it was no longer too much of a secret. Tiara removed the last article of clothing and began ruffling around for more holiday appropriate replacements, not taking too long in the process.

The changes were small, just barely noticeable, but enough to render this easily appropriate. The Ace shadow began to shrink eventually ending at a decent size of about a foot or so. Tiara picked him up again and made her way towards the door, with the Chakats quickly returning to their old seats in the dining room. Small flashes were seen from the incoming corridor as the Chakats once again left to take their peeks.

Ambient fluctuating sounds were heard and rampant conversation as light once again seeped in. The bemoaning awakening gathered the attention of all. Movement wasn’t too snappy though as the conversations withered down into snickering. The once knocked out rodent was now in the conscious world again, and in the most uncomfortable of positions.

“Afternoon sleepyhead” Tiara jokingly referenced.

“Couldn’t we have one holiday where we can all just be friends? Especially on THIS one” Ace moaned about.

His expressive face was not helped by the methods. Around him were varying clones of his, each in a condiment or dish or dessert of an individual’s choice. His own predicament was not any different. He was bound by liquorish next to a larger turkey leg. He sighed and layed his head back down.

“Don’t be made you goof, this is still a proper holiday” Fleetfoot spoke

“Yea, Thank you” Bombshell added

“Thanks not how it works” Ace retorted

“Well it’s not that way in a tradition sense but we’re having our own little thanksgiving with you as the guest of honor” Tailswisher added.

“Yes, thank you for selflessly volunteering.” Mistdancer finalized.

“I didn’t volunteer for this” he grumbled.

“Not officially, but you still offered to help me in the kitchen” Tiara let loose.

After hearing those words Ace had figured the meaning. He slammed his head lightly at the table once. The table guests couldn’t be more entertained. Tiara herself was fairly amused.

“I know this isn’t exactly the proper way to say thank you” Tiara went on “But you know do know we love you…especially I” She snickered, poking fun at the comedical taur greeting of devouring affectionate acquaintances. Not all of them did so mind you, but in this case the little holiday centered itself on that greeting.

Ace however was still unamused, and traditionally now nervous, which never does any wonder for such emotions. He closed his eyes and let out another sigh. At this point it was established he wasn’t going to be a happy camper with the usual chain of events following this pattern. However he had finished more or less venting through that sigh and even if forced gave s brief smirk. His fear of such things would not go away for a while if at all, but the reassurances of great holidays did manage to keep within the spirit of it all.

“Still” Ace pondered, “Did it really have to happen this way?”

“Well we could have taken you as presented, if you’re a fan of dismemberment” Tiara replied.

“I see…” Ace grimly acknowledged.

“So what are we waiting for?!?” Candy impatiently blubbered.

“A confession” Tiara smirked

“Ooooo what kind” Tailswisher prodded.

“What are you talking about?” Ace replied.

“Just a little secret” Tiara responded.

“Hiding from your friends is not nice Ace” Mistdancer jokingly teased.

“I don’t think most friends eat each other either but that’s just me.”

“SECRET MUST LEARN TELL.” Bombshell echoed.

“You are in for a world of trauma nut-boy, and I though your bondage gene would be an undoing.” Fleetfoot

“It’s going to come out one way or another Ace.” Tiara continued to tease.

“No, not saying a thing”

“I’ll just go with it then.” Tiara replied

“Happy ring a bell? Thanksgiving”

“Exactly. The majority will be happy” Tiara contended.

“Come on..if I can have just one wish?” Ace asked

“Come the holidays you can ask” she snickered.

Tiara applied a small acorn to a stringy sweet and covered the mouth of the bound squirrel.

“No holds barred for your delicate methods” She said.

The other chakats raised browse almost meaning to ask what she meant.

“Fur isn’t just for show you know, It’s quite malleable. After all who doesn’t like to work jawbones out a little bit.”

Ace continued to muffle in protest at the speaking.

The other chakats were still somewhat lost

Tiara bore her teeth and clamped them shut making a clean clack sound.

“You mean we can do that now?!?” Mistdancer responded.

“If you so choose yes. I found this little tidbit during Halloween. After all what better way is there to scare? You’ve all heard the complaints. Gotta make use of them pearly whites someday” Tiara joked.

“Don’t worry about him, he prepares fine. It’ll scare the living nightmare out of him for your joy and not hurt him one bit assuming at least you do it all at once.” Tiara spoke to reassure.

The other Chakats were less concerned and easily signaled at least for the time being a more traditional method. Ranging from wraps to pies, each consumed in their most preferred manner. Mistdancer the renegade however was easily among the most amused that another obstacle was seemingly removed. Ace remained looking around still bound and without voice.

“Now we can wrap up here” Tiara spoke out.

The patrons each rose up their rodential desserts or dishes, giving a nod each parding a thank you upon the still bound Ace. Tiara was keeper of the original, the prized possession. The others each received their own clones to participate. Ace now lifted in the air began to gnaw at his acorn muzzle while the brief exchanges were made. Finishing just in time for the finale of the night.

One by one each clone disappeared from sight unto guests. Mistdancer breaking the orthodox by taking more than such a chance to make use of hir trademark teeth, as prior to such shi had grazed and such, but never more than that. The sounds of finishing and the results of such were easily visible, more than a few expressing auditory satisfaction as well. Soon all save for Tiara had been easily visibly stuffed, particularly favoring the last bit.

Tiara then raised her own last bit. Bound by liquorish and inserted into a turkey leg up to his head, Ace easily had about himself shivering. Extending her tongue out Tiara slowly lowered the drumsticked rodent down into her maw. Easily very humid and warm she took little time in accelerating her insertion. A soft, gentle clamp to scrape the turkey leg clean and completely take in Ace, tail included.

Tiara stroked the Ace inside with her tongue, rather soft and wet and bearing a darkish red color similar to cherry coke bottles, coupled with gentle action served as a soothing action. As fervent as he still was, Ace was cool enough to remain in place, without fear of causing her any harm. The soft, warm tongue, and the humidity of the insise quickly gave rise to a squirrel soaked with saliva. The tongue pushed gently over to the the Lynx’s sharp, yet pearly white incisor teeth. Without hesitation they did come down, yet, not for Ace as they did on Halloween.

Ace stood there as the teeth seamlessly and calculatedly freed him of both the turkey leg and his bondage. A small tilt shifted him back onto the tongue which with grip curled around him and pushed him backwards. His status as covered in spit transitioned with less force than necessary as he easily slid down with but a single gulp following his companion contents. He easily identified his direct trip as he landed on another bouncy and malleable surface. He was on the second of two stomachs, slowly rising up and attempting balance as conversations from the outside could be heard.

It was pretty dark inside, though it was no problem for him given his intert bioluminescence. Inside were typical expected eatings of thanksgivings, though it was a bit hard to make out, as Tiara was in motion. Ace put one of his ears to the wall only to receive a loud bang! Return. He fell on the squishy surface once again, realizing that it was a patting. Various pattings in fact as he heard the door creaking on the outside, he began to make out the muffled speak.

“Was great! Has to be done again!” Coming from Bombshell.

“Right up there with last thanksgiving!” Tailswisher added.

“Hmmm, definitely one of the more memorable moments, and perhaps even a great learning day” Mistdancer replied showing bearing of teeth.

“Was fun, I wonder if Ace has gone nuts yet” Fleetfoot pondered, to which the group chuckled.

“Alright Alright enough with the squirrel torture planning” Tiara interjected.

“Have fun you guys and be safe” She added.

“Did you really?” Asked Candy

“What? You mean use mah pearly whites?”

“Yeah”

Tiara quickly revealed small bits of fur, at least grated to her teeth.

“oooo…he must’ve been white at the sight of those.”

“I would be inclined to agree, now get going, getting late around these parts.”

Technically she wasn’t lying. She did indulge a darker side of the normally passive indulgence on Halloween, she just didn’t partake in an event this time. With the group convinced she had indeed indulged again, they took their paths and left, Tiara locking the door. Inside she proceeded to make her way to the master room given her state of full ness.

The flopping on the bed shuffled all the contents around and threw Ace in a mini spin cycle. He once again rose and took a seat upon the other pieces of thanksgiving meal that surrounded him. But a large sound was heard, and it wasn’t the stomach. Out of the entrance arrived a bevy of small cakes, almost intact and various acorns amongst other things. More patting was heard with a sensual rubbing.

“Not much, but I did say thank you didn’t I” She giggled.

“It’s not freedom, or bed, but I suppose for the occasion it’s a sight for sore eyes” Ace replied.

“You didn’t think I would honestly not do anything did you?”

“That depends, I had concerns that this would happen”

“Oh Ace, you know I would never try to at least get a smile from you.”

“I know I know”

“Everyone will be home tomorrow and we can go back to the safe living” Tiara snickered.

“You know I’m not disappointed or anything personally. It’s just, well you know…the accident.”

“I know. It’s a shame, though the corruption efforts will continue. You will submit to your overlords.”

“Fat chance”

“I’d be careful with those words”

“Touche”

“Now enjoy your food, and thanks again. Christmas will be much better on both our ends. Nothing too evil”

“I’m worried now”

“Don’t be. Tis the season to be jolly.”

Ace immediately began to indulge in his gifted treats. Tiara explained that she had stored them in her abdominal more human body prior to this. As she prepared to sleep, a large belch escaped her after she finished speaking. She slightly snickered to herself and closed her eyes, drifting off into sleep, Ace following shortly after, his treats having been peppered heavily with calming sedatives. Both would sleep and dream into the world of tomorrow, of course bringing with it, a more normal greeting at that point. But for not each contently remained asleep to wait until nature passed.