The morning sun filtered softly through the windows, casting a warm glow on Shadie’s cane as she tapped it rhythmically against the floor. She lounged in the armchair, coffee mug in hand, radiating unapologetic sass. Cream giggled softly on the couch, clutching her pillow, her laughter bubbling quietly every time Shadie landed a good jab. Fiona leaned casually against the wall, clearly entertained by the scene. Shadie smirked, eyes locked on Fiona. “Fi, I don’t know how you manage to keep that calm face on when I’m around. It’s like watching a storm try not to ruin a perfectly good picnic.” Cream let out a soft chuckle. Fiona arched an eyebrow, folding her arms. “Someone’s feeling extra this morning.” “Extra?” Shadie laughed, swirling her coffee. “I’m a full-blown spectacle. You? You’re the background music trying not to get noticed. Admit it, you live for my chaos.” Cream laughed a little louder this time, shaking her head. Fiona rolled her eyes but smiled. “Please, you’d be lost without me. I’m the ‘calm’ in your crazy.” Shadie tapped her cane deliberately. “Maybe. But this cane? It’s not just an accessory, it’s my exclamation point. A queen needs her scepter, and this baby commands respect.” Cream giggled, clapping her hands softly. “Of course it is,” Shadie said with a grin. “Every queen’s gotta have her signature.” There was a pause, filled only by the steady tapping of the cane against the floor. Then, from upstairs, a sleepy voice called out, “So, are you two gossiping about me or what?” Silver appeared halfway down the stairs, tousled quills and rubbing his eyes like he’d just been dragged from a nap. Shadie didn’t miss a beat. “Silv, just in time. We were debating if you have enough style to keep up with me.” Cream let out a delighted giggle. Silver smirked, descending down the stairs. “Guess I showed up just in time to witness the sass master at work.” Fiona chuckled. “Don’t encourage her.” Shadie took a slow sip of her coffee, tapping her cane once. “Encourage? No, I’m just handing out the truth—and Silv, you’re long overdue for some humble pie.” Silver laughed, throwing his hands up. “Alright, alright. But only if there are donuts involved.” Cream laughed along, brightening the room. Shadie’s eyes twinkled as she leaned back. “Now that’s a future worth controlling.” Fiona shook her head, smiling. “You’re impossible.” “Impossible?” Shadie repeated, mock offended. “I prefer ‘unforgettable.’ Besides, if I wasn’t here, who would keep you all in line? You need my chaos to make your calm look good.” Cream burst into a little laugh. Silver shrugged. “Maybe. But I’m still the one who actually sees what’s coming.” Shadie raised an eyebrow. “Sure, Silv. Just don’t forget who’s been saving your tail all these years.” Cream clapped her hands, giggling. “Mama’s the best!” Silver grinned, shaking his head. “I’ll give you this, Shadie—no one delivers sass like you do. But one day, I’ll catch you off guard.” Shadie smirked wider, cane resting across her lap. “Good luck with that. Now go fetch those donuts before I rewrite the future to make you dance.” Silver called back up the hall, “Donuts coming right up, Commander Extraordinaire.” Shadie gave a satisfied sigh. “Finally, some respect around here.” Cream giggled, nudging Fiona. “Mama’s got jokes today!” Shadie raised her coffee mug like a toast. “Here’s to me — the only commander who can arrest Scourge and keep a caffeine addiction thriving. Bow down, or at least bring me a donut.” Fiona smirked. “Don’t encourage her, Silv. You’ll regret it.” Silver reappeared at the door, holding a box of donuts—only to freeze when he saw Shadie tap her cane and shoot him a look. “Nice try, Silv,” Shadie said dryly. “If you wanted a promotion, you should’ve started with coffee, not donuts.” Silver grinned sheepishly, setting the box down. “Noted, Commander.” Cream laughed outright now, covering her mouth. “Mama, you’re hilarious!” Shadie winked and took another sip. “What can I say? Somebody’s gotta keep this crew on their toes. Now, who’s ready for round two of Operation Chaos?”
