The Only Nutcracker (Septiplier)

Part II

 He looked at it curiously as he picked it up; it was small and looked damaged. He closed the door as he held it up to the light and observed it. What's in here? Why was it brought to me? Surely all the presents arrived, I think. The box didn't have any label so he was unable to identify the sender. Becoming curious the more he looked at it, Jack walked over to the couch and sat down while he prepared his stinging hands to rip open the box. Thankfully, unlike the bigger packages he opened, not much strength was needed to open the little box. He looked inside to see a gift wrapped in red glittery wrapping paper. A note was attached.

Jack,

This is a last minute gift for you. I'm sorry it's so late. Merry Christmas!

He took notice how there was no name and wondered who sent him this gift; he actually began to wonder what his gift was. Not sure if I should open it. He opened it anyway as he opened yet another box to reveal a nutcracker. The Nutcracker wore a bright red outfit, resembling one a British soldier would wear. He had pale pants with black dress shoes.

"Is this... No, it can't be. Mark?" He swore that this toy looked exactly like his YouTube friend as the hair was brown with red out in front. His rosy cheeks shone through the light of his cottage. He set down the Nutcracker as he looked at it. He got out his phone as he took a pic and posted it to his Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook with the caption,

'Looks like Mark is a real "Nutcracker" eh?' within minutes, he had over 300 notifications just for that photo. It was normal for Jack to receive as many notifications as he did, but when Mark commented, he just had to look. He posted the same comment on all three sites; 'More like "ball" cracker, huh?' Jack couldn't help but laugh at the joke.

* * * * * *

It was now 3:00 and Jack, tired of being bored, decided to text Mark about his Christmas plans. He found out, after a few texts between the friends, that Mark wanted Jack to come over on Christmas day and Jack got really excited for the news. Luckily, he only lived a few miles from Mark, so walking would be relatively easy. He texted back a 'Yes!' and laid down on his couch. While he did so, he looked to the Nutcracker that held some gleam in its eyes. Without hesitation, he took another nap, longer than the last.

* * * * * *

(Play Song)

Jack awoke to find himself in some sort of castle, he thought, since it was big and spacious. However, it seemed dark and depressing, especially since all he could see was gray and black with hints of blue here and there. He took a step just as massive doors opened. Frightened, Jack stumbled back as he looked to where the doors were and saw... the rat king?

"Ah, you have arrived. Welcome!" Felix walked over to him as many rat soldiers followed closely behind their king. Jack showed a soft smile as he felt really nervous. As Felix came close to him, he bowed, somehow his crown stayed on his head.

"Mind if I bring my guest something to eat? Or... no, let us have a feast. You there!" He pointed to a soldier standing by his side.

"Please ask the cooks to arrange a meal fit for a king and guest." He then turned to Jack and winked, making Jack blush but only slightly. The rat obeyed and marched towards the kitchen. Felix took Jack's hand and rushed him into the dining room, where there was a long table with many chairs including a throne at the end. Felix made Jack sit in a chair right by the throne as Felix called for the rats. Immediately, several rats marched in, wearing the same royal blue as Felix wore. They each sat down, looking at each other curiously. Some started a conversation while others just stared at Jack. As Felix clapped his hands, the chef rats were entering the room while carrying plates of garbage though two plates contained some steak and salad. Big gray bowls were evenly spaced throughout the table, containing rolls. Felix stood as did the other rats. Jack stood as well, not wanting to disrespect them.

"Tonight, we have a feast because of our dear guest Jack. He has traveled long ways from his home and won't be staying for very long, however, I think a proper greeting is with a meal. Don't you agree?" The rats cheered as they whistled and laughed about. Felix pounded on the table to stop the commotion going on. He turned to Jack.

"As I do with all guests, Jack here shall take the first plate before anyone gets anything." He handed Jack a plate, while Jack looked to it then Felix then the table full of food. He graciously put a piece of steak, some salad, and a roll on the plate before the rats began to dig in ruthlessly. It was disgusting for Jack to watch, but he tried not to mind. He enjoyed the feast, as pleasing as it was, but began to feel drowsy.

"Ah, leaving so soon? I promise we will meet again Jack. For real this time." Jack didn't know what he meant as the king left a big kiss on his soft cheek. Just as that happened, he saw blurriness and woke up on his couch. It was now 6:45.