Light of the Fireflies

It was a beautiful night out. It was cosy and the moon was round, large and tinted yellow. The sky was lit up with bright stars; their lights dancing like ballerinas on a stage of pitch, black darkness.

Radio was sleeping soundly, dreaming of funny nonsense and things that didn’t make sense that she wouldn’t remember in the morning. She was completely oblivious to the fact that Pictures was up and about, sneaking around Video to nudge her awake. “Miss Radio?” He whispered. “Miss Radio?” The snowshoe cat stirred, stretching and blinking her bright blue eyes. 

“Pictures?” Radio groggily replied. She suddenly leapt to her feet in a sudden panic. “Has something bad happened?” She asked looking side to side frantically. Pictures chuckled and shook his head. Radio let out a great sigh of relief. “Why wake me up then?”

“I have something to show you. Let’s call it a midnight first date.” Pictures winked at her and Radio felt her ears go hot. “For starters, let’s not wake Video.” Radio nodded, following Pictures as quietly as possible to let their grumpy travel companion sleep.

As they both strolled through the forest side by side, a warm yet strong breeze blew through their fur. Radio closed her eyes at the sensation earning a content smile from Pictures. “Such wonderful weather.” Radio opened her gaze to look at Pictures.

“I agree, it’s quite lovely out.” He replied, glancing back down at her with his beautiful heterochromia eyes. Radio beamed before shifting her focus forward. This was so exciting her first date with Pictures. As they continued walking, she began to grow curious. Where was Pictures taking her?

“So, what are you showing me?” She asked in a futile attempt to get know what Pictures and in mind.

“If I told you, it would ruin the surprise.” He let out a small laugh as Radio pouted. “Do not worry, we’re almost there.”

Minutes went by. They chattered and spoke about all sorts of topics. Things such as what Pictures’s line of work was like and what a comfortable life being a Noble was. Suddenly and without warning, Pictures paused. He looked around as if searching for something. Radio gazed up at him. “This is the place.” He announced. Radio followed his gaze left and right.

“There’s nothing here though.” She said. Pictures sat down and Radio followed suit.

“Patience, miss Radio.” He commented pointing a paw at the area in front of them. “Keep your eyes focused ahead.” Radio nodded, doing as she was told. Suddenly a small, glowing ball was floating in the air. It was tinted orange and its light flickered. Then another one appeared. Then another ten. Then another fifty. Radio gaped in awe at the sight.

“Are they fireflies?” She asked breathlessly.

“Yes. Isn’t it a pretty sight?” Pictures wrapped his tail around Radio’s tail and they intertwined into the shape of a heart.

“It’s amazing! How did you know about all of this?” Radio questioned.

“It’s a secret.” Pictures stated. Radio giggled and rolled her eyes playfully.

“Alright, I understand.” 

They sat in comfortable silence as the fireflies put on a breath-taking show for them. “Let’s head back.” Pictures finally got to his feet, stretching his legs. Radio stared at him; she didn’t want this moment to end. “Who knows what Video would do if we weren’t back before sunrise.” Radio hadn’t realised the time.

“Oh alright then.” She frowned. Pictures nudged her gently with his nose.

“Let’s go, and quickly.”

They moved fast. The sun was bound to home popping up over the horizon soon. Radio picked her pace up as Pictures started running. At last they reached Video who was still fast asleep. They both let out a silent breath of relief. They settled down just as the sun's rays hit where they lay. Radio looked at Pictures one more time before Video stirred. “You’re both surprisingly awake early.” She said blankly. Pictures nodded, sneakily winking at Radio who let out a small giggle.

“Of course. We’re on a very important mission after all.”