Youth

[thneed_need]

The Blondettes were gossiping, as usual.  It seemed that today, the Once-ler hadn't shown up for three meetings, and wasn't picking up on any of his calls.  The office door was locked and none of them dared to try and open it. Their boss was eccentric even at his best, and moody at his worst

Comments

[blkmsatraveller]

If not even Gordon could get in, there are PROBLEMS. "Once, what's up?" This worried the angel and, as soon as he was sure no one was watching, flew up the window. Carefully, he opened one and peeked, "Once-ler?"

[thneed_need]

There's a scrambling noise from under the desk, and a distressed whimper, but no other response. The lights, which had been brightening and dimming, abruptly go out entirely.

In the dark space under the massive desk, are a pair of electric blue eyes watching cautiously.

[blkmsatraveller]

Once would be surprised to see that his friend was more familiar with these displays than most. "Hey, c'mon out, it's me?" Freeman tried to coax him out with his usual, brotherly tone. His eyes glowed as well, trying to establish a connection.

[thneed_need]

"Where's my Momma?"

Once poked his head out a bit. He looked to be no more than five years old, hair even messier than usual, and absolutely swimming in his business suit. There's wet tracks down his cheeks from crying, and by the looks of his sleeve, he's used it as a Kleenex recently.

As to how he got this way--there's a small bottle of marshmallow fluff flavored vodka on his desk, but as to where that came from is anyone's guess.