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 Posted: Wed Dec 24, 2025 11:47 am
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Posted: Wed Dec 24, 2025 12:38 pm
Quote: Once introduced to the idea of a gift exchange as a means of celebrating the holiday season the youngest daughter of Underland, Esfir Lahal "Hunt the Thimble", was all in on the idea. A usually mischievous and joyful Cheshire, the idea of gift giving was delightful enough to her. But to add to that the potential chaos and hilarity of a game where exchanging and stealing preferred gifts were on the table? Well, it was no wonder she had insisted on giving it a shot. With enough siblings, cousins and herd mates in on the idea, Esfir was reasonably sure they could get a fun group together and ensure a good time was had by all.
The perfect venue may have eluded her for a moment, but soon enough she had picked out the perfect glade in the north of the Underland herd's territory. Surrounded by relatively aged trees, large and stooped and gnarled enough to be perfect perches for the Cheshires if they so chose, this specific glade usually had a low plush carpet of growth most of the year. In the depths of the Winter Holiday, rather than velvet grass and fern, it instead sported a better than fetlock deep blanket of snow overtop the fall leaves that the trees had dropped during autumn. Though somewhere below her paws the grass and ferns were likely alive and well -albeit sleeping- Esfir's main interest was in the snow and the grey boulders that could be used to hold refreshments and gifts.
In preparation for the little party, Esfir had dusted the snow off of the stones earlier and set out a few trays of snacks as well as a pot or two of tea on their convenient little candlelit pot warmers. On the otherwise bare rock sat a silk wrapped little gift, festooned with bright aqua ribbons reminiscent of her mane. All she needed now was some of the others to arrive. "What is taking everyone so long?"
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Posted: Wed Dec 24, 2025 6:26 pm
Quote: More often than not, where his sister goes so too does Shahrivar. To that end, when Esfir had proposed a gift exchange in celebration of the holiday -an idea she'd gotten from talking to her friends at the Faire- of course he had once again been game to go along with it. This, at least, was unlikely to be come something dangerous or even potentially disastrous to life and limb. Not something that could be said about all of Esfir's plans, perhaps a third of them if Shah was fortunate. That being the case, a peaceful, joyous and generally well-meaning holiday celebration seemed like a fine idea. A gift exchange. They could do a gift exchange, what could go wrong?
Well, perhaps if something so silly wasn't said out loud, things wouldn't get too out of control.
With a fond shake of his head to dispel the troublesome thoughts, Shah flicked his tail and trotted the rest of way into the clearing, the handle of his carefully wrapped gift basket held gingerly in his teeth. Seeing where Esfir's gift already waited on the stone, Shah made a low sound of understanding and then crossed the space on light paws, playfully adding his tracks right beside his sister's as he walked up to the stone and set down his burden before turning to follow her marked path toward one border of the little glade.
"I trust that you've told everyone already, and we'll be here as we find the opportunity to travel and arrive, hm?" He asked as he stepped to Esfir's side and gave her a greeting cheek brush. "I'm sure that KC and the others wouldn't miss it."
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Posted: Thu Dec 25, 2025 9:55 am
Quote: Ahlidel Cat, Ahli among his friends and herd mates, is something of a fixture when it comes to Cheshire antics. There wasn't much chance of escaping, considering that he grew up with the first round of the young Underlanders, and was often in the thick of whatever mischief is being sought or created by the second. It was therefor of no surprise that he would be attending a Cheshire soiree, even if it was something of a designated family event. If his close ties to the family wasn't enough to earn him an invitation by virtue of proximity alone, the fact that he had been widely regarded as Meru's mate for some time would surely have earned him a ticket.
For all the time that Ahli had spent amongst the Cheshires, he wasn't quite sure if one of them needed to ask for it to be official, or if the Queen had to acknowledge it, or if something needed to be signed or witnessed in some elaborate ceremony. Not that there was exactly a lowkey way to ask? But the Queen's relationship was before his time, so he had no recent examples of Underland Courtship to use as a reference. Perhaps he would ask Moofu, if he found the opportune moment to do so.
But such things were best stressed over at a later time. For now Ahli had put together his best relaxation basket from different things he'd seen at the Faire, and brought it wrapped and pretty to the glade that Esfir had given him directions to. Other than following her instructions to leave the package somewhat vaguely wrapped -the cream-colored paper had seemed appropriate at the time?- all he could do was set the gift down and wait to see what happened next.
"Holidays are stressful..."
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Posted: Sat Dec 27, 2025 8:38 am
KC KC: The crisp bite of the cold embraced all who left their warm den. The chill in the air didn’t bother this stallion. Kazamir “KC” Charades had a deep appreciation for all seasons. Each was a mix of sensations that he enjoyed. Inhaling deep, he relished in the icy bite that filled his lungs. The forest, void of all sound like a blanket of quiet. Till KC began heading towards the glade, creating a muffled crunch as he hoofed through the thin layer of snow. A long smile spread on his face as he thought of what lay ahead. When Esfir had advised him of a “White Elephant” gift exchange, KC had been too eager to participate. A new game, and one with gifts involved! His sister had the best games, and yes, sometimes deliciously dangerous ones. A promising experience for sure, though relatively safe. One he hoped they could do again. Hunting for a gift had been quite a challenge. First, he thought, what better way to treat his siblings and cousins than a new tea set? After deliberation, though, it seemed safe and unlike him. Mushrooms? Too like him. Heading to a market that traveled from the coast, he spent all weekend frequenting stalls. Then the perfect gift had called out to him. He had grinned ear to ear, quite literally, upon finding the treasure. Wrapping said gift had proved an even bigger challenge… He had resorted to finding a second gift, to put the first in, then wrapped that. It all worked out! The paper, plain and brown, with berries tied using a red ribbon. This he had a merchant do for him, since he had no opposable thumbs. Shame. The berries were not holly, that are frequently used as a decoration this time of year. Holly, otherwise known as Ilex, is from the Aquifoliaceae family. Why everyone used a toxic berry for decoration was a mystery to him. Like saying “Here, be merry, and maybe have a toxic reaction if you eat these.” In place of holly, KC had chosen a ripe sprig of Hawthorn. A bright tart apple-flavored berry, with many health benefits. Because if he accidentally poisoned any of his family, he’d likely be dead after. The gift lay tucked beneath his hat. His very squished hat. Heading for the glade where he was told to meet, he spaced out. He hoped they had snacks! In all his rush to get here, he had failed to provide his body with nourishment. Stepping into the glen, he immediately honed in on the array of cakes, crisps, and tea spread out delicately on a natural stone table. His eyes fluttered under his hair as his inner voice rejoiced a very loud Yessssss. Staring, before greeting a soul. Clearing his throat, he broke his trance. “Greetings Wonder-all.” he beamed at those who were already here.
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Posted: Sat Dec 27, 2025 9:12 am
Quote: Esfir was all about games, as most Cheshires tended to be. Taking stories that she had gleaned from the different vendors and performers at the Faire, as well as advice from the herd Game Makers -her brother KC and their cousin Meru- she had blended the whole matter together into an Underland interpretation of this peculiar thing called a White Elephant exchange. The family and most of the herd had been invited, though it was understood that there might be different stages due to the difficult in getting everyone together at one time. More bodies present would mean more chaos, but sometimes one just had to work with what one had.
By her assessment, Ahli was often game for most things, especially if he couldn't see any active harm or danger lurking in the wings. This sort of game was far more safe than chasing rumors of monsters or pranking shifters, so he had unsurprisingly been one of the first on board. Esfir gave him a Cheshire grin and an approving nod when he appeared, swiveling her ears as she considered the pale package he set gently on the stone beside her own. Meru would likely have better insight to the type of gift that Ahli would bring to an event, but she had yet to appear... Which meant it was on Esfir to guess. And Esfir did so like to guess.
When KC arrived she planned to poke him for his opinion, but until then she'd settle for making sure the snacks and gifts were well arranged and hope that more of the herd would attend.
The sound of a new arrival had her spinning in the snow, sending soft sleeting clouds flying with the scrambling movement. "KC! You're here!"
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Posted: Sat Dec 27, 2025 9:38 am
Quote: For all that he was more of a similar age to the first generation of Cheshire Royals, the Magician known as Arcane found that now and then he also was roped into the antics of the younger generations. It was perhaps not all that surprising, as they were a lively and somewhat irresistible lot. For his part, Arcane was more amenable to pranks and shenanigans than Smoke tended to be, through the Keyhole Cheshire did seem to be healing slowly now in this sanctuary herd so far from the Queen's influence.
Though determined to remain in their good graces, when invited to the gift exchange, Arcane did hesitate. He knew how the younglings games could get out of control, and wasn't sure if he wanted to earn the Queen's attention for participating in whatever it was before it got out of hand. On the other, it had been some time since he'd gotten up to some quality mischief. He did rather miss it. And, well, where was the harm? Katya knew exactly what sort of kittens she had bore, as well as those from her sister. Surely they expected chaos, mischief, and perhaps no small amount of vandalism, danger, and injury.
In the end he had agreed to attend and even enchanted a small box that would emit cheerful sparks in varying colors when it was opened. It was the sort of thing that was entertaining rather than especially purposeful, but in the dark it did make a cheerful sort of light in the night. The sort of thing that foals would surely love. What with the rate that all the young ones were pairing off, he rather anticipated kittens would be arriving soon... So there was no harm in being prepared with an entertainment or two, right?
Stepping into the glade with the little box wrapped in wine colored paper and tied with golden ribbon, Arcane gave a greeting nod to the Cheshires assembled. "Holiday Greetings, All."
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Posted: Sat Jan 10, 2026 12:47 pm
Quote: Smart money says that most of the others are likely to have beat him to the punch, so with that in mind, Rumple Minz 'Peppermint Cordial' resolves to be more strategic. His siblings and cousins will have punctuality on their side -assuming they're able to attend at all- but he will have something better.
"After all, who would bother trying to eat punctuality?" Rum says to himself with a Cheshire grin and a flick of his ink-dripping tail.
A visit to the dining meadow and a trip through the kitchen and larder means he's sufficiently well stocked before the gifts even begin to factor into things. With a carefully stoppered bottle of cordial, a box of sweets, and another box of iced tea cakes loaded into his packs, he can then begin loading up the gifts. The leather straps slide easily over his shoulders and he gives a nod of thanks to the rabbits and raccoons that have helped him pack, before pointing his nose northward.
Rum trots up to the party field a little late but in good spirits, wearing packs on his back to carry all the gifts he needs to carry. Zinger had entrusted his younger brother with his gift offering, promising to turn up a little later though potentially with his lady in tow. Not that any of them would mind that, Two was delightful at a party and a favored deity besides. Likewise the Princess, his cousin, Devora had said she likely wouldn't be able to attend in a timely manner, and sent her own gift along as a precaution. There were a few other gifts from cousins for the sake of confusion and mystery, and then Rum's own present rounded out the offerings.
"I hope I'm not late! There were some essentials I just know everyone would miss if they weren't brought along!"
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Posted: Sat Jan 10, 2026 2:55 pm
Quote: Shahrivar Stoneskipper notes the unmistakable -but surprisingly early?- appearance of Ahlidel Cat with amusement, tilting his head questioningly as he notes the cream-colored stallion appears to be muttering to himself. It's not so much of a surprise that Ahli is speaking -to himself or otherwise- but Shah deems it rude to listen in. Is there any version of conversation more private than one held with one's self? Of course, if Shah's cousin the Lady Meru were here, there was no question that Ahli would be talking to her. Perhaps she will be along later? Shah notes that it is occurring and remains out of earshot, waiting for Ahli to notice him before he can offer a greeting nod.
Though outsiders to the herd tended to assume that Shah and Esfir were twins, considering their similar colors and mannerisms and the way they went everywhere together, the herd knew otherwise. Underland had had many Cheshire kittens that year, and though they were siblings, both of them had far more 'identical' siblings to contend with. Of course, if one managed to see them standing beside their actual twins, the relation was unmistakable.
Fate proved so when the next Cheshire to arrive was Kazamir "KC" Charades, Shah's true twin. Seeing as how Ahli was still somewhat lost in his thoughts, Shah swung around to offer his brother a hello instead. "KC! Wonder Greetings, you're on time for cake. Oh, and gifts. I do suppose that it would be rather ridiculous to have both of our Game Makers miss such an event, so we are glad to have you."
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Posted: Sat Jan 31, 2026 3:38 pm
Quote: Bashan SilverTip, called Smoke by most of the individuals in both his old herd and his new, is somewhat tentative in his approach to the newly proclaimed Gaming Meadow. As the Vorpal Sword, it is not often that he is expressly given an invitation, engraved or otherwise.
While back in the old Wonderland herd, matters were somewhat different. Attending a party for work, in service of the Queen, was a working engagement. It was by no means optional, and at no point was it for diversion or entertainment. He had been present for security purposes, not as a guest, not there to enjoy his time.
The Underland Herd was a different beast altogether. Here he was invited... The parchment crisp and clean and elegantly embossed with shiny lettering. He was addressed directly. He was, requested, rather than commanded. They wanted to see him there, and to see him having a good time.
It's a strange life, living amongst these new royals. But strange in a good way.
Stepping into the Glade with a modest but practical gift and a box of candies to add to the festivities, Smoke sees Esfir approaching one of the gifts and already knows what she's about to do. The Princess is not the patient sort, too curious by half. If she has her way, she'll be lifting and shaking and sniffing every gift... Doing her best to decode what they are so she can prepare her attacks to get whatever she has decided she wants.
"Esfir Lahal, I know you're not reaching for a gift before everyone has gotten here... That seems like it might constitute cheating, doesn't it?" He tried to bark out in disapproval, but the tone was amused and somewhat indulgent. Even not quite here, Smoke had a soft spot for his friend's kittens. Somehow they had become like the precious nieces and nephews he's never had.
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Posted: Sat Jan 31, 2026 5:42 pm
Quote: Seeing a rather promising collection of parcels are now taking up space on one of the stone tables, Esfir Lahal glances around the glade and bides her time. As soon as it seems all the other bodies in the area are distracted, interacting politely or trying the refreshments, she makes her move. The stallions are milling around and talking, and she sneaks on silent paws toward the gifts with a typical Cheshire grin.
She gives a cursory sniff, but with the scent of the snacks and the snowy woods sprawling around them, whatever it is doesn't give off a particularly strong odor. The pine and maple and drowsing oak are stronger. As is the wafting scent of fresh tea and sliced lemon, o waiting honey and sugar cubes and little trays of cookies and snacks.
Alright, no scent hint then. And no visual clue due to the wrapping... On to the next test, since everyone seems to be distracted at the moment.
Elegantly stretching her neck out toward the packages, her jaws are open and she's about to grab a corner of the nearest gift to lift and give it a shake when the latest arrival steps into the glade. Smoke barks out her name like he's caught her stealing cookies in the middle of a meal or some other grave sin. It startles a yelp out of her and prompts her to spin and face him, offering an innocent smile.
"Hmmm? Sir Smoke, I'm entirely sure I have no idea what you mean? Are you accusing me of being such a terrible player that I would employ wiles and underhanded techniques? During a friendly family competition? I'm hurt." She gives the affectation of pouting, drooping her ears and making her eyes as sorrowful as possible.
The whole act vanishes a moment later when she realizes he is carrying packs, and surely has both a gift and snacks in his possession. "Oh! What did you bring us?"
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Posted: Wed Feb 04, 2026 8:48 am
Meru Meru: It wouldn't be a Meru gift if it wasn't stock-full of little games that prank you in the end with annoying little temporary fixtures. Even upon opening the gift, a glitter bomb of many bright and stand out colours would give its welcome to the game master's gift. Of course there were things like little snapdragon finger-traps that have a puzzle to solve before they let go. It was all fun and games, of course, she would never allow the gifts to do lasting damage. Well, besides the glitter, as that will last surely. Even the one to receive the gift's children and their children's children will find glitter with how much Meru had stored in such a gift. There were other little games, like a solving cube with candy inside of it; not to say the candy was any good by the time she was done crafting this game. She had snuck in behind Ahli, which was a feat for Meru as even though her shrubbery on her head was prepared for the deep winters and was looking rather sparse, Meru still had the signature Marille antlers to somehow mask with the surroundings. Ahli seemed to always get startled and surprised by her nonetheless, even in their youth he never let her down with his reactions. Instead of scaring the living out of him today though she just moved to allow her eager ribbons tickle at his rump, giving him a low pur of her own in greeting to him. It was not until she looked up in alert to Smoke actually exclaiming something louder than just a monotoned rumble. "I see Esfir is ever eager to get the game started!" She cackled in laughter at the little gathering. Smiling warmly towards KC as well before she turned her attention to her younger brother with multiple gifts. "I see Zinger is busy with Two~." She said in passing as she returned her affections towards her officially unofficial mate.
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Posted: Wed Feb 04, 2026 10:15 am
Quote: Perhaps more than a bit distracted by nerves as he regards the assortment of food, drink and gifts, Ahli is more than a little caught up in the swirl of his thoughts. As was his habit, he was going through everything he'd been told or heard hinted at for the party, trying to ensure he had not missed a step or put a hoof wrong. Nothing immediately leapt out at him, which was moderately reassuring, but still he was... concerned.
Not worried, per se. Not overreacting. Just... concerned. As was proper. It was important to care about rules, and the good opinion of those dear to you... and not upsetting the Royals. And probably a few other things he was forgetting, truth be told.
'Damn... Wait, wait, what am I possibly forgetting?'
So consumed by his silent, internal fretting that he was losing awareness of his surroundings, the pale colored stallion is on the verge of scowling in the direction of his rather bland gift. His eyes distant and unblinking, and as such, he does in fact flail and perhaps -ONLY PERHAPS- emits a squeaking noise. It is of course not a squawk as he is not a chicken, Cheshirelings. Do be quiet, won't you? But a squeak at the sudden brushing of a gentle ribbons over his haunches.
Spinning to face the gesture, Ahli goes from sulkily contemplating his gift to grinning widely at the mischievous mare that just spooked him, however unintentionally. Ah, better than a nap in sunshine or freshly banked pastries, as far as he was concerned.
"Lady Meru!" He chirps, mood immediately brightening. "Forgive me, I didn't see you there. You're just in time to ensure that the rules are observed... For all that they're not often that important to some of the rest of us. Particularly Esfir."
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Posted: Sat Feb 07, 2026 4:59 pm
Quote: Arcane: Truth be told, if there was an instance that would involve any combination of chaos, mischief and the potential for additional excitement like vandalism and danger, Arcane would rather not miss it. For one thing, quality entertainment was a delight meant to be savored, not avoided. For another, if things did get out of control he would much prefer to be on hand to lend his assistance, rather than to hear about whatever had happened at some later time. Though he was a Magician, he did have some gift in herb craft and healing; hopefully enough to be helpful if things went wrong. Though, he would rather stay close just to ensure such a thing didn't occur.
Now that Arcane has delivered his gift to sit among the others, he meandered over to the spread of snacks to help himself. After some consideration, he picked up one of the delicate frosted cookies for a delightful little snack, and then the Magician is content to step off to the side of the clearing and crunch quietly to himself. He glances from Cheshireling to Cheshireling, watching the siblings talk and tease and greet the cousins as they begin to arrive. Rum's muttered excuses and argument about his punctuality earns a mere flick of tail and ear, Arcane's attention promptly moving to Shah and KC, then on the arrival of the next body.
Meru's startling of young Ahli prompts an actual low, rumbling laugh from Arcane, but he keeps to himself until he hears the somewhat surprising sound of Smoke, the Blade apparently catching Esfir in her perhaps not so innocent attempts to get a head start in the game.
"Perhaps we should ask our Game Masters what the rules are?" He mused. "Is investigation of the gifts part of the game? I feel like shaking presents is nearly always bad form."
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