To Love A Nutcracker

Chapter 14

Charlotte, Alastor, and Anthony crouched behind the trees, their eyes fixed on the mouse soldiers armed with weapons as they scoured the area, searching for something—or rather, someone.

"What exactly are we looking for again?" One of the mice inquired, his voice tinged with confusion.

"A nutcracker and a girl." The captain of the troops replied confidently. "They shouldn't be too hard to find around here."

Charlotte leaned closer to Alastor, whispering to him.

"What do they want with us?"

"I have a few theories." Alastor murmured back. "They probably plan to have a barbecue, where I'm the fuel for the fire."

"So, um... what's the plan?" Anthony, chimed in, looking nervous.

"Jump straight into battle?" Baxter suggested, his eyes gleaming with excitement.

"No, actually, we're aiming for a less violent approach." Charlotte clarified. "We need to find Princess Mimzy so that her love for Alastor can break his curse and dismantle Vox's power."

"Oh, how romantic." Niffty sighed dreamily. "True love conquers all, you know."

"Exactly. So all we have to do is reach the Sheltered City." Charlotte stated, determination in her voice.

"One problem, though." Alastor interjected. "How are we going to get there without being detected by those mice?"

"Leave them to me, Your Highness." Baxter said firmly. "My fellow soldiers and I will create a distraction while you and your lady friend make your escape."

"Baxter, are you out of your mind?" Anthony exclaimed. "You just recovered; do you really want to risk getting hurt all over again?"

"Yes, Baxter, you can't do this." Niffty chimed in, concern etched on her face. "You're still too weak. You could end up getting destroyed."

"Perhaps." Baxter replied, determination in his eyes. "But if it gives our prince a chance to flee and save us all, it's worth it. Anthony, you should go with them. You know this forest better than anyone, and I know you still have some magic left."

"I do, but I'm not sure how much I can accomplish with what I have." Anthony admitted.

"In my opinion, any magic is valuable." Baxter insisted. "And if it's not too much to ask, Your Highness, could you please take Niffty with you?"

"What?" The shepherdess gasped.

"She's made of china." Baxter explained, urgency in his voice. "She's far more fragile than the rest of us. It would be safer for her to accompany you."

"I don't see any harm in bringing her along." Alastor said.

"Wait a minute, I'm not going." Niffty protested. "I don't want to leave you, Baxter, or the others."

"Don't worry about us. We may be toys, but we're highly trained in combat. Even if we get separated again, we'll be instantly restored once Vox is defeated."

"I should stay and help you fight."

"Absolutely not. I refuse to watch you fall apart. Be sensible, Niffty; we both know it's safer for you to go with them."

"But I'd feel like a coward for leaving."

"You're anything but that."

They shared a heartfelt hug.

"Keep an eye on her, will you, Anthony?" Baxter asked, wrapping his arms around Niffty.

"Don't I always?" The snow fairy doll chuckled.