Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Joxter walked as he always had, along the forest path towards nowhere in particular. He felt stiffer and more tired than usual. His legs were heavy as lead as he took every step and his feet ached like no tomorrow, but this was the life of a Joxter. As he walked the scenery became more and more familiar. He felt the weight in his step lift as if gravity had been lifted. His vision blurred as he watched his surroundings fill entirely with fire. The serene forest sounds were drowned out in the blaze and replaced by screams of dread.
Joxter hit the ground as memories came back. The fire disappeared as it reversed backwards towards a beast.
A mighty dragon, one of the last of its kind, roared as time continued to reel back. Then, all that was left of his surroundings was the untouched gorgeous clearing that used to be his childhood home. The home of Joxters.
See, before they had become wanderers, Joxters had originally lived around a wondrous fruit tree. The fruit tree produced enough fruit for his family to survive for an entire year. It was enormous and the only of its kind Joxter had ever seen. After the dragon had attacked and burnt it down his family searched and searched, but no other tree was quite the same. From there on out Joxters were known as explorers and vagabonds.
The Joxter had grown old and met many great friends, even falling In love. As his friends faded into nothing the Mymble was the only one that stood out in his mind the most.
Stuck within his memories Joxter reached out to run his hand along the side of her face. “My love I promise I’ll return soon.” He heard himself say, knowing full well the words he spoke were lies.
“I know.” She said leaning forward but just before she kissed him she turned into feathers. Joxter watched as the feathers turned into a Bird and flew into the sky. The aftermath of the dragons fire surrounded him now. He looked sadly at his surroundings, but was surprised by something.
A sprout of some sort had come from the ground. Days sped by as it grew and grew twisting and turning as it towered into the sky. Then fruit grew, each one being the size of Joxters head. As he marveled the sight a tune began to play, it was almost familiar as it carried through the wind in the most naturally unnatural way. It grew louder and louder until he realized the person playing the music was behind him. He turned to face them, but instead of whoever he was expecting he was met with a much older looking Moomin. “I think it's about time you come and visit my old friend.”
Joxter blinked his eyes open as he began to register the dream he had just had. He yawned and looked upward towards the moon, which was quite clear from his perch on a high tree branch.
“Perhaps this is a sign that I need to go back.” He said his voice hoarse. “it's been so long.”

_______________________________

Moomintroll and friends were hanging out with the Snork today so he could teach them how to build kites.
“Why isn’t Snufkin here?” Little My asked her workspace was a mess of paper, string and tape.
“He said he had some errands to run. Why do you ask Little My?” Moomin asked. Moomin was painting some patterns onto his kite, blue paint had somehow smeared across his nose.
“Seeing how you two are normally glued at the hip this time of year I just think it's strange is all.” Little My explained.
Snorkmaiden made an annoyed noise, “I think it's good for them to have some space from each other. They are individuals after all.”
“Yeah.” Moomin agreed as he finished both his kites.
“Wait ...why did you make two?” Sniff asked.
“One is for Snufkin.” Moomin said, which was greeted by Snorkmaiden groaning and Little My laughing. “What? I thought it would be nice to fly our kites together later on.”
“Actually, it seems like we won’t be flying kites at all today.” Snork said coming from the other room.
“I just got a call from Moominmama apparently a storm is coming and she wants you to head home right away.”
Moomin sighed sadly, “figures.”

Snorkmaiden stayed home and Sniff branched off back to his own home. Which left Moomintroll and Little My running for Moomin house. As promised a storm loomed overhead greeting them with claps of thunder.
As the wind picked up Moomin had to grab for Little My who was almost swept up into the air.

“I’ll carry you the rest of the way.” Moomin said. Ignoring her complaints.
As soon as they reached the porch the rain began to fall in sheets.
After setting Little My down, Moomin bent over to catch his breath. He pulled his kites from under his arm to make sure they weren’t damaged and sure enough they were fine! He let out a sigh of relief.
“Beat the storm I see.” The smooth voice of his best friend said behind the kites Moomin was observing.
Moomin looked up to see Snufkin with his pack of stuff on his back.
“When did you have time to pack up?” Little My asked.
“I knew the storm was coming so I packed up earlier.” Snufkin explained.
“So that was the errand you needed to get done!” Moomin said laughing, “how did you know?”
“I could just sense it...it's a Mumrik thing.” Snufkin said shrugging off his pack. “Are those the kites you made?”
Moomin smiled, “Yeah! I made you one so we can fly them together!”
Snufkin’s eyes widened and he brought up his hand to cover his smile, “oh really? That sounds wonderful!” Moomin smiled back at him. Suddenly Snufkin reached out poking his nose, “hm?” Moomin looked at him in confusion.
“You have blue paint on your nose.” Snufkin explained.
Little My snickered as Moomin hurried to wipe off his nose, “Sorry I didn’t mention it, its was too funny!” She said wiping a tear from her eye.
Before they could continue their conversation Moominmama opened the door, “come on in kids, I prepared tea and cookies.”
There was no denying food from Moominmama so all the friends headed in.

Sitting around the fire the kids sat around Moominpapa who was sharing more stories of his young adventures.
“Then the sorry creature ran off with his tail between his legs, and me and my friends went out for a celebratory drink!”
Moomin smiled, “that was your best retelling yet! It was almost like I was there. Right Snuf?”
Snufkin nodded, “it was quite lovely....now if you’ll excuse me.”
He got up and headed towards the door.
“Where are you going?” Little My asked. “It's still pouring.”
“I’m only stepping out for a second.” Snufkin said and exited without another word. Moomin shuddered as a cold wind hit his fur.
Little My turned to Moominpapa and pulled out a deck of cards. “Alright who is up for a round?”
“Sure.”

About twenty minutes had gone by and Snufkin was still outside. Moomin got up slowly from his spot setting his cards down.
“I fold.” He said and headed towards the door.
“Where do you think you're going?” Little My now asked him.
“To check on Snufkin.”
“He is probably fine, just doesn’t like being inside much.” She pointed out.
“I am still going to check on him.” Moomin said and exited the house. As he stepped onto the porch he noticed the rain had slowed to a steady drizzle. The sun was ever so slightly poking through lighting the sky in orange in its setting. Snufkin sat leaning back against the house with a pipe in his hand.
“I thought you quit?” Moomin asked standing next to him.
“I did.” Snufkin answered, and placed it in his mouth calmly.
“Then why are you smoking it?” Moomin asked watch the smoke rise.
“Have you ever had a bad feeling Moomin?”
“Like...when I am angry? Or embarrassed? Or do you mean when your stomach is all queasy-” ''-No-no, I mean have you ever felt like something bad was going to happen or something that would change your life forever?” Snufkin asked.
Moomin thought for a second, “I sometimes have bad feelings when Little My is messing around near Mama’s favorite flower Vase...”
“Ok...imagine those feelings but...very much worse.”
Moomin looked at his friend with worry. “Are you getting these feelings now?”
“I have been getting them all week...and I feel like it’s...” He breathed in another puff and let it out looking towards the clouded sky. “I feel like it’s telling me to leave Moominvalley.”

Chapter Text

“What?” Moomin asked looking at his friend in surprise. It had only been a couple weeks since Snufkin had arrived!
“I’m going to leave-“
“No- wait, I heard you! I’m just...Processing is all.” Moomin said sitting down next to Snufkin. “Do you know what it is? The thing that you are sensing.”
The rain had slowed down to a drizzle and a rainbow started to form on the horizon.
Snufkin sighed, “No I don’t, but it feels the longer I’m here the stronger the feeling.”
Moomin frowned deep in thought, he looked over at the door hearing the voices of Little My and his parents rattling on about something. Next to the door sat Snufkin’s bag, untouched since he had set it down earlier. He turned back and looked at Snufkin who held his pipe lazily, knees drawn to his chest. Then is occured to Moomin. Snufkin wasn’t packing his stuff because of the storm.
“You were planning on leaving earlier that's why your stuff is all packed up.”
Snufkin nodded, “I would have had to pack up my stuff anyways...but it was a good excuse.”
Moomin’s throat felt dry as he held back his emotions. Not because he was afraid to show them, but because it would only make Snufkin feel worse about his decision. He swallowed feeling the strain. “Were you planning on saying goodbye?” Moomin asked looking out towards the bridge. He could feel Snufkin's gaze on him, “Of course I was, I’m here now.”
“Yeah, I guess you're right.” Moomin said sighing. “The rains stopped, perhaps we could fly our kites before you leave.”
Snufkin looked out at the retreating rainclouds and hummed. “The wind isn’t as strong as it was earlier.”
Moomin’s ears flattened against his head and he sunk into himself, “True...” Nothing was going right today.
“We could go sit on the bridge.” Snufkin suggested lightly placing a hand on his friend's shoulder, “I’ve been working on a song I’d like you to hear.”
Moomin perked up right away, “really?”
The other smiled and helped the Moomin to his feet, “Really, really.”
The two made their way down to the bridge Moomin’s tail waged in anticipation of a new song.
Snufkin pranced over to the bridge and perched himself on the railing. Moomin followed behind and leaned against the railing next to Snufkin; resting his heading into his hands.
Drawing out his old harmonica Snufkin took a second to catch his breath.
Then when he began to play, the whole world seemed to stop around them. Moomin closed his eyes for a second listening to the tune. It was beautiful, as all the tunes Snufkin played were. Moomintroll looked over at his friend whose eyes were closed as he played. The sunset softly illuminated Snufkin's face making the scene picturesque in Moomins mind. He smiled and closed his eyes again listening to the happy melody slowly dripped into a sadder one. It was as if the song itself was saying goodbye.
Snufkin finished his song and looked over at Moomintroll who met his gaze.
“That was beautiful Snufkin.” Moomin said. “Truly remarkable.”
“I was hoping you’d like it.” Snufkin said smiling.
“Of course I do!” Moomin said, “I love every song you play.”
Snufkin laughed and pocketed his harmonica. “Yes, of course.”
“Since you're all packed up would you want to camp out on the veranda tonight?” Moomin asked. “We could make a pillow fort.”
“That sounds lovely.”

______________________________

The Joxter had been slowly traveling for a couple days. Currently however, he was stuck hiding under a cliffside as a thunderstorm passed through.
A couple woodland creatures also gathered around the area they seemed somewhat comfortable around the stranger. Joxter wondered if one of his brothers lived nearby, but he couldn’t think of a single one who wouldn’t drop everything for a good hunt.

His tail swished in annoyance as a creature tugged on his pant leg. “Excuse me sir, are you perhaps a wanderer like my friend?”
“Your friend?” He asked genuinely curious now.
“Yes, my friend Snufkin. He is a very kind soul, in fact he even gave me a name!”
“Oh? What may that be?”
“Teetywoo-“ he giggled happily. “Oh excuse my glee, I love my name so much.” Tweetywoo smiled pressing his paw against his cheek.
“That is a lovely name.” The Joxter said, “my name is the Joxter.”
“Joxter…” Teetywoo said slowly, then smiled. “Now that is a name!”
Joxter smiled, “thanks I picked it myself.”
The creature giggled and wobbled in place for a second. “Excuse me Joxter may I ask you a question?”
“Sure go ahead.”
“Do you play any instruments?”
Joxter frowned slightly. He did play some guitar and the mouth organ, but he hadn’t played for quite a while.
“Yes...but I don’t have any at the moment...Why do you ask?”
“My friend sometimes play us songs when he is around...I was hoping you would be able to do the same, you know? To lighten the mood.” Teetywoo turned to look back at the other creatures who were shaking. Joxter couldn’t tell if it was from fear or from the cold wind.
“I could whistle.” He suggested.
“Oh would you?” Teetywoo gasped. “I would very much appreciate it!”
Joxter nodded and began to whistle, he followed the melody of the rain and thunder as he did.
The animals drew closer when they heard and some who were brave enough even leaned against Joxters side.
The warmth radiated off them slowly lulled the Joxter to sleep.
When he did awake he found that the creatures had all left in the night. He stretched and yawned as he sat up slowly from the ground.
“You are a really deep sleeper, you know that?” Teetywoo said causing the Joxter to jump.
He looked around, noticing the forest was full of light now, the sun seeped into the leaves creating patterns on the forest floor.
“Is it morning?” He asked.
“Yeah, the storm ended, but none of us could wake you.” Teetywoo explained. “You must have been really tired.”
“I’ve come a long way...though I’m not sure where I’m going.”
“Do you need any help? I know a couple places you could stop for rest or directions.”
“Oh...I don’t know if you know him, but I am actually looking for my friend Moomintroll.”
Teetywoo stared at him skeptically, “You know the Moomins?”
“You know Moomintroll?”
“Yes...well I haven’t met him personally, but I have heard of him.”
Joxter smiled and got to his feet, his tail swished back and forth eagerly. “Will you take me to him?”

Chapter Text

The pillow fort was a great success,  Little My joined and they even had a pillow fight. By the time they had settled down for the night Moomin had all but forgotten Snufkin’s plans to leave the next morning. However, now as he laid awake Snufkin’s form next to him snoring softly in his sleep, the realization hit. He sighed looking up at the quilt blanket above him, Snufkin wanted to leave because of a terrible life altering situation that could befall him if he stayed. Moomintroll knew his friend tried to welcomed most change, but if it was going to be as bad as Snufkin said... Moomin wanted to support Snufkin’s decision to leave. He however, also feared this situation could also be lifted from Snufkin’s shoulders and moved to Moomin’s instead. Moomin knew he should bring this worry up to his friend, but couldn’t figure out when. Snufkin was going to leave this day, this morning. Moomin gripped his blanket and made a frustrated groan, perhaps he should wake Snufkin now and get it over with. 

“What are you groaning about you big oaf?” Little My asked crawling on top of Moomin. Moomin wondered if he should tell her or not, but keeping secrets from Little My were so tiresome sometimes. So he decided to just give in.

“Snufkin is planning to leave... because he feels a big change is going to happen. He fears that it may be a bad change due to how strong the feeling is.” He explained, trying to be as quiet as possible.

Little My stared at him with widened eyes, “To be honest I thought you were going to keep it a secret. It’s no fun when you tell the truth.” She sighed and closed her eyes. “… Sometimes he is such an idiot.” She looked over at Snufkin who was still snoring soundly. “You should definitely talk this out…but butter him up a little first.”

“Huh?”

Little My rolled her eyes, “Sweet talk to him like ‘Oh Snufkin won’t you play one more song! I will miss you so much! Let me walk with you for a bit.’ You know, the butter. Then you can add in your doubts and worries at the end.”

To be honest Moomin was quite impressed with Little My’s advise. She did make some strong points. 

“Thanks My.” He said smiling, which cause her to frown.

“Yeah whatever.” She said and hopped down from his belly and skittered away. 

Once she was gone Snufkin finally began to stir from his sleep. 

“Moomin?” He said in a sleepy mumble, “do you know what time it is?”

“The sun is up...so I’d say around nine or ten.” Moomin answered sitting up slowly. 

“I will be leaving soon then.” Snufkin said sitting up as well, his hair was messy and his coat was cast aside so he only wore his undershirt and pants revealing a small tail that was usually hidden. When Moomin had first seen it Snufkin got flustered and thought Moomin would think less of him for it. Apparently Mumriks weren’t supposed to have tails like Mymbles didn’t, but he did. Moomin didn’t mind it of course, it was just another cool thing about Snufkin.

“Would it be ok it I walked with you for a bit?” Moomin asked. Snufkin looked a little unsure, but nodded.

“It would be nice to have some company for a while I suppose.” He said smiling. Snufkin didn’t smile much around others, so when he did smile it would always make Moomin’s heart skip a beat. “First let’s take down the blanket fort though.” Snufkin said and quickly turned to get his coat and hat, his tail wagged fiercely behind him until it was covered up.

They spent the rest of the morning picking up the blankets and folding them up. Moominmama caught word of Snufkin’s leave from Little My and quickly made him and Moomin lunch for their walk. “Thank you so much Mama.” “Thank you Moominmama” The two boys said in unison. Moominmama smiled kindly, “be safe, and Moomin don’t go too far.” 

Moomin nodded, “don’t worry Mama.” He said then leaned in to nuzzle her cheek and in return she hugged him. 

After saying goodbye again they finally headed out towards lonely mountains. 

Moomin hadn’t been out on many walks recently so he felt a little slow compared to Snufkin's usual bouncy step. Snufkin walked ahead a few paces and turned around to face Moomin.

“Care for a travel tune?” He asked. Moomin smiled, “of course, I love your music.”

Snufkin’s eyes widened and he turned quickly back towards the direction they were going. “Ok.” He said and pulled out his harmonica. A wind gathered and Moomin closed his eyes as some dirt wafted into the air. Snufkin began to play. This song seemed to be more improved than his normal songs. Snufkin turned to face Moomin and their eyes met.

Snufkin smiled behind his instrument and then turned back around to continue their walk.

Once Snufkin tired of his Harmonica Moomin knew that he would have to turn back soon.

“Snufkin we should stop and eat.”

“Good idea Moomin.” Snufkin said setting down his pack. Moomin always wondered how the Mumrik could carry such a heavy thing, yet be so light on his feet.

Moomin took out a sandwich and took a bite. His mother was truly an artist, it was as magnificent as always.

“Tell Moominmama thank you again for me.” Snufkin said, “this is honestly the best sandwich I’ve ever had.” 

Moomin nodded, “agreed.”

They sat and ate in silence until they were both full. Moomin knew it was now or never…

“Snufkin I wanted to talk to you about something.”

“Oh? I also had something to say...you can go ahead if you’d like.”

But Moomin didn't want to go first, so he shook his head, “no, no, you go ahead.”

Snufkin smiled, “I was going to thank you...not many people understand how this…” he point to his chest, “how it feels.” 

Moomin knew this was coming, he knew he was going to disappoint Snufkin with his worries.

Snufkin continued, “you did seem apprehensive at first, which is understandable, but since then you seemed to support my choice to leave.”

“I do.” Moomin said smiling softly, “of course I support you Snufkin...I’m just a big worry wort...which is something I wanted to talk to you about.”

Snufkin’s happy expression melted into confusion, “oh?”

Moomin wringed his paws together anxiously. 

“You see...I’m worried about this ‘change’ you say is coming ...I fear it will and you won’t be here and the something you fear will be left to me…”

“I doubt-“ 

“But you don’t know!” Moomin said interrupting Snufkin, whose eyes were widened from the trolls outburst.

“You are right Moomin, I don’t know.” Snufkin said tilting his hat forward to hide his face. 

“Than why are you leaving?” Moomin asked, “wouldn’t it be better to face-“

“-I can’t.” Snufkin said turning away. 

“Why?” Moomin’s voice broke, he had tried very hard to keep his emotions stable the past day, but it seemed like the dam was finally going to break. He reached forward taking Snufkin’s hand in his own, “why?” He asked again.

Snufkin was silent, and tugged at his hand to pull it from Moomin 's. Yet, he didn’t put very much effort into it. 

“Why?” Moomin asked once more, this time followed by a sniffle.

Once he realized Moomin was crying Snufkin turned back around and pulled the other close. 

“I don’t want to lose you.” The mumrik whispered, “if this change comes I may have to leave forever.”

“F-forever?” Moomin asked, “why would you have to do that?”

“No idea…” Snufkin said into his friend's shoulder. Moomin sighed leaning his snout on top of Snufkin's head.

“I wouldn’t let that happen.” Moomin said, “If you had to leave forever I would simply have to come with you.”

Snufkin laughed, “but what about Snorkmaiden and the rest of our friends.”

“Well they can either come with us or let us go without them.”

Snufkin looked up at Moomin, “but aren’t you and Snorkm…” Snufkin stopped speaking and an unfamiliar voice broke the silence.

“Oh, sorry... are we interrupting something?” 

______________________

The Joxter and Teetywoo had been wandering the whole morning. Joxter had started to wonder if the small creature really knew where he was going. However, as they walked a familiar melody played from somewhere in the distance. It was so familiar, but Joxter couldn’t place from where he had heard it. 

“Excuse me Teety-“

“-ok you caught me I’ve no idea where I am.” The creature explained. 

“I was assuming that, but that’s not what I was going to ask.” The creature's ears perked up, “oh? What is it- wait that music!” Teetywoo jumped happily, “I know that from anywhere!”

“Oh?”

“Snufkin is bound to be in that direction then.” Teetywoo exclaimed scurrying forward. The Joxter followed behind him intrigued. This was the second or third time the name Snufkin had been mentioned. 

As they ran the music had at some point stopped, but Teetywoo seemed determined to find the source. The small creature had Joxter jumping, climbing and crawling in his attempts to keep up. It was really tested the old man in his adjility, which of course he was still quite proud of for his age.

“I hear voices.” Teetywoo said slowing down, “seems like Snufkin is talking to his friend about something.” 

“Friend?” Joxter asked. 

“His best friend Moomintroll.” Teetywoo said.

“Moomintroll?!” Joxter asked walking forward.

“Hey! Mr Joxter we mustn’t interrupt!” Teetywoo said, “it seems like quite a serious conversation!”

“I’ve been looking high and low for my friend, I’m going to talk to him.”

“I’m sure it's important, but- wait Joxter!”

Joxter had gone ahead and walked passed into the clearing where Snufkin and- who was that? It looked like his Moomintroll, but far younger.

It seemed like they were having a serious conversation, the Moomintroll’s tail was drooped he and Snufkin talked.

Snufkin was saying something, however his eyes locked with Joxters and he stopped. 

“Oh, sorry...are we interrupting something?” He asked as Teetywoo emerged from the bramble behind him.

The Moomin turned and faced him and he could now clearly see a pair of ocean blue eyes. This was not his Moomin. His Moomintroll had brown eyes.

“Er-yes you are…” The Snufkin said in confusion.

“I’m sorry Snufkin I tried to stop him.” Teetywoo said. 

“What is this about?” Moomin asked his voice uncanny to the other Moomin he knew.

“I’m looking for a Moomintroll...one with brown eyes? Likes to fish? Terrible at crosswords?” Joxter asked.

The small Moomintroll perked up, “you are looking for my Papa then!”

“Ah yes, you're Papa- wait Moomintroll had a kid?!” He hadn’t been gone that long had he? It had only been several years...maybe ten or eleven perhaps… Well, suppose he shouldn’t be surprised. He hadn’t been around afterall!

“How old are you.” Joxter asked.

“Sixteen.”

“Sixteen?!” Joxter said, “how long have I been gone?”

“...Who are you?” The Snufkin kid asked.

Of course neither knew who he was, be hadn’t been around afterall.

“My name is Joxter.” He answered, “I am one of your Moominpapa’s friends.”

The pairs eyes widened and they turned to each other and then back to him. “The Joxter?!” Moomin asked. “I’ve heard so many stories!”

Snufkin nodded, “it's an honor to meet you sir.”

Joxter was surprised, “Moomin’s been telling our tales has he?”

“Moominpapa has been writing a memoir for years.” Moomin explained.

Now that wasn’t surprising. Moomintroll always was one to keep a diary. The Joxter had on occasion read through them and made Moomintroll quite angry.

“I guess I’m not surprised. Well it’s wonderful to meet you both! Do you think you could lead me to where you're Moominpapa is residing?” 

“Sure.” Moomin said, but then turned to Snufkin, “how about it Snuf?”

Snufkin lifted his hand to his chest, “I’m...not feeling it anymore. I suppose the change has passed?”

Moomin smiled, “that's wonderful! Now we can all head back together!”

As they headed back Teetywoo tugged on Snufkin's coat, “would you perhaps play a tune for us?”

Snufkin looked at the small creature who he had once named. Then up at the Joxter who was busy telling stories to Moomin.

“Perhaps another time.” 

Chapter Text

Moominpapa had been having quite a lovely day. 

His Son was out with Snufkin and Little My was off doing who knows what. Which all meant Moominpapa was left to a nice silence, a coffee from Moominmama and his still unfinished memoir. 

It had been YEARS since he’d started the darned thing and he had only just gotten to the part where the group set sail on the Ocean Orchestra. He had originally started his memoirs at meeting Moominmama, but decided to back track into his earlier travels with Fredrickson and tow. Moominpapa sighed, he missed his friends nowadays from time to time, he always wondered what they got up to. Fredrickson hadn’t answered Moominpapa’s later letters, the Muddler was off adventuring somewhere with the Fuzzy and couldn’t receive letters (though he has gotten a couple postcards) and the Joxter... well... He didn’t know where to even start with him. One thing was certain though, if he ever saw the Joxter again, Moominpapa would give him a welcome the man would never forget.

Moominpapa rubbed his head and took a sip from his coffee to try and calm himself down. 

Of course he doubted that would ever happen. He chuckled and began to work on his Memoirs once more.

__________________

“My Papa is going to be so glad to see you.” Moomintroll said giddly. “All he talks about is the ‘good ol days’.”

Joxter smiled, “Glad to know someone missed me.”

“I’m sure plenty of people miss you.” Moomin reassured him.

“I’ve been gone far too long I doubt anyone else around these parts will even remember me.” Joxter said scratching his head, “Moominmama perhaps.”

“Oh well of course….” Moomin continued to rattle on about his Mother's good memory, but Joxter had tuned it out a bit to focus more on the Snufkin kid who was walking besides Moomin. 

He was definitely different to other people Joxter had met. He was a Mumrik for sure, but acted slightly different and had a different smell. He couldn’t place it whatever it was. 

The Joxter noticed Snufkin’s backpack and he wondered if the kid was also a fellow traveler.

Moomin seemed to have gone quiet as they all stepped into a clearing which led to a bridge and then further on up to a tall blue house which Joxter recognized right away.

Teetywoo ran ahead excitedly. “We’re here!” 

The rest of the group crossed the bridge slowly, but Snufkin stopped and looked back at a clearing, “you all can go ahead, I need to set up my stuff.” He waved goodbye and went out towards his campsite, followed by Teetywoo.

“Ok, see you later Snuf!” Moomin said waving back. Then he turned to Joxter, “you ready?”

Joxter shrugged, “as I’ll ever be, I suppose.”

The sun was setting behind them as they climbed the porch. Moominmama was cleaning some windows and hadn’t noticed Joxter.

“Mama we’re back.” Moomin said and she turned around with a calm expression, her eyes squinted since the sun was behind them, “that's good dear, so Snufkin didn’t leave after all?”

“No, but we also ran into someone while we were out.”

“Hm?” Moominmama opened her eyes and gasped. “Joxter?!” She dropped her rag and reached her hand out towards him.

“Hi Moominmaiden.” Joxter smiled and let her touch his cheek. “It’s been a while.” 

“Too long I would say.” She said, “you’ve missed so much...first of all its Moominmama now.” She motioned to Moomintroll besides him.

“Ah yes, congrats.” 

“I would never have guessed that anyone would congratulate me on my baby now, sixteen years after I had him. Yet, here we are.” She said and shook her head. “Anyways, you are going to make Moominpapa’s day. He’s been so frustrated with his memoirs lately that this will lift a bit of his stress. I’m sure.”

“Really now?” Joxter asked. “Where is he?”

“In his study, I’ll go fetch him.”

_______________________

Then she left the two out on the veranda. The sun was now a sliver behind them lightly the sky in a dark pinkish purple. A light breeze picked up reminding Moomin that he and Snufkin still had kites to fly.

Creaks came from the floor above as his father descended the stairs. Moomin stepped away from the open door to let Moominpapa greet the Joxter. 

His father seemed calm, but his head was lowered. 

Moomintroll then began to wonder what his mother meant about relieving stress. 

Before he could wonder too much his father stopped in front of the Joxter.

 “Hello old friend.”

Before the Joxter could greet him back however, Moominpapa swung his right arm and decked the Joxter across the face.

Now sprawled across the ground, Joxter seemed to be silent with utter shock.

“THAT'S WHAT YOU GET YOU SON OF Aauh-“ Moominpapa noticed Moomintroll and quickly recollected himself, “-a beautiful woman…respected even…”

“Papa what was that?” Moomin asked motioning towards the Joxter who was still recovering.

“That was justice son.” Moominpapa said, “now Joxter, if you would like to explain yourself once you’ve recovered you will have to come in uninvited. I know how you are.” He turned and slammed the door behind him.

Moomin was still taken aback by what happened and turned to Joxter quickly.

“I’m sorry about all that.”

A muffled, “don’t apologize he doesn’t deserve it.” Came from the other side of the door, but Moomin ignored it.

“I didn’t expect... him to be so mad.” Joxter said rubbing his jaw. “He seemed so calm in my dream.”

“Dream?” Moomin asked, but before Joxter could explain anything Little My ran up.

“I just saw that from across the way! I didn’t know Moominpapa could throw a punch like that!” The Mymble threw a couple mock punches in as she approached. “Anyways who’s this- wait I know you.”

“Oh, Little Mymble.” Joxter greeted.

“Wait- how do you know the Joxter?” Moomin asked.

“He dated my Mom, Moomin. I was like five or so I think when he left.”

“You used to bite my tail every day.” Joxter said holding his tail away from her.

“I was teething.”

“You were five!”

“Yeah, well, you deserved it.” Little My said folding her arms.

Joxter pouted and began to stand up, “well...I suppose I have to break myself in now.”

“My window is open if you want to climb up there.” Moomin explained, “there is a ladder in the back.”

“Ah, thank you.” Joxter said and made his way off the porch and around the back.

“See you inside Dingus!” My yelled and then opened the unlocked front door.

“Oh.” Moomin said, “well, I suppose he’d have had an easier time getting inside here…”

________________

“Hey Snufkin, aren’t you going to go with them?” Teetywoo asked as Snufkin set up his tent. 

“No, I’m not really needed over there.”

“I don’t think that's true, I think you're always welcome.”

“But not needed.” Snufkin again pointed out, feeling quite agitated. He had hoped to have some peace and quiet, yet Teetywoo was making it much too difficult.

“Will you play me a song.”

“If I play if will you be quiet?” Teetywoo’s ears flattened, “I’m sorry if I was annoying you again… You don’t have to play if you don’t want to.”

He began to walk away sadly, but Snufkin started to play his harmonica. The creature stopped and closed his eyes listening to the tune as the sun disappeared yonder and the sky turned to night

Chapter Text

Joxter slipped in through the window with ease into the room of the small Moomintroll. It seemed quite tidy besides the desk which had a few papers and two kites scattered across it. Each kite was littered with blue painted floral patterns. One had the letter M and the other S. He had no problem guessing who they were for.

Heading down to the second level of the house he was hit with the aroma of dinner coming from the first. It smelled like...some kind of soup! His stomach growled reminding him he hadn’t eaten all day.

On the first floor Moominpappa sat in a chair by their fireplace, a newspaper in hand. The small Moomin and Little My’s voices came from the other room which Joxter assumed was the kitchen.

“Moomin.” He said sitting in the chair next to the older Moomintroll.

“Joxter.” Moominpappa said not looking away from his paper.

“I don’t know why you're mad at me but-“

The Moomin laughed interrupting Joxter. “Thats rich! You don’t know why I’m mad!” He continued to laughed as he took off his reading glasses and set the newspaper and classes on the small table next to him. 

Joxter frowned, he truthfully had no idea why Moominpappa was so angry at him. He had only been doing what was natural to him.

“Please Moomin, tell me what I’ve done wrong!” He pleaded.

Moominpappa looked at him bitterly, “you left us.”

“I always leave-“

“No I mean, you left and you never returned. You were gone for seventeen years Joxter, no one even knew if you were even alive!” The Moomin slumped over. “I’ve been so lonely without you all around.”

“What about Fredrickson and the Muddler?”

“Fredrickson wrote for a bit...but he stopped answering and the Muddler and Fuzzy have been missing for years. We’ve been taking care of their son in their stead.”

“They have a son too?”

“We all have kids Joxter.” Moomin said exasperated. “If you had been around you’d of known!” 

“I mean we don’t all have kids.” Joxter knew for certain Fredrickson had never gotten married or dated and the Joxter, himself hadn’t been around the Mymble for years. She’d never shown signs of pregnancy around him when they were an item. Most of the times they tried they were sure it wouldn’t work since he wasn’t a mumrik.

“You...do you not know?” Moominpappa asked.

Joxter felt himself stiffen. 

“What?” Did Fredrickson settle down? Why did Moominpappa look so serious?

“The Mymble she...well she gave birth sometimes after you left. I had always assumed you had found out and fled.”

Joxter felt cold, and possibly a little sick.

“What?”

“She was heartbroken Joxter, she only had one kit that survived in the litter.”

Joxter sunk into his chair, “A kit! I can’t believe I never knew..are...are they doing alright?”

“We..don’t know Joxter..” Moominpappa said, “We didn’t visit often enough. Moominmamma visited the most, when she was pregnant with Moomin. She said the Mymble seemed sadder and more tired than her usual chipper self. We didn’t see the kit at all after a while. We were told she gave them to the orphanage, but I would have taken the kit off her hands if I’d known she would.”

“I...the orphanage?” 

“Yes, at least that’s what we’ve heard.” Moominpappa said nodding sadly. “I suppose...I was a little harsh in my greeting today.”

“No…” Joxter said covering his face with his hand, “ I deserved it… it was quite selfish of me, wasn’t it?”

“I would say, but you are here now.”

“Yes…” 

“Why is that exactly?” Moominpappa asked.

“Well-“

“Sorry to interrupt, but dinner is ready.” Moominmamma said entering the room. She looked at the teary eyed Joxter. “Dear, would you like me to hold off for a second?”

“I think we could use a dinner break.” Moominpappa answered. “I will get you a serving ready if you’d like to take a moment.”

“Oh, yes, thank you Moomin.” Joxter said and wiped his face into his sleeves. “I appreciate it, really.” 

Moominpappa smiled and followed Moominmamma into the kitchen.

A kit. He had a kid. He had a kid-and he never knew. They grew up without parents...or a home...they grew up without love or understanding of who they are. If they even grew up at all. The Orphanage... He felt his heart ache at these thoughts. He wished he’d known them whoever the are or were. Perhaps he could still find them...or try to figure out where they went. It had been seventeen years. God. 

He really was a dingus like the Little Mymble had said. He really did deserve those bites and that punch. 

Joxter laughed bitterly. He deserved to be kicked out of the Moomins household right now, and yet, they were still treating him with hospitality. Even though it was a kindness he didn’t deserve.

He sunk into himself feeling himself slip into a panic. Shaking he reached into his pocket for his pipe, but before he could, a paw touched his shoulder. 

“Shhh.” Moominmamma’s hand rubbed circles on his back. “It’ll be alright dear.”

“No it won’t.” He said, “I’ve ruined everything like I always do.” He was shaking violently as he spoke and could hear it in his voice.

Moomintroll and Little My poked their heads out of the kitchen, but Moominmamma motioned them to leave.

“No you didn’t dear.” She said, “You didn’t know anything.”

“I didn’t return… I should have. I-.” He couldn’t see through his tears.

“Shhh...you have to breath Joxter.” She instructed calmly, “In.”

He breathed in.

“Out.”

He breathed out. Again and again he was instructed to do so.

“Now dear, I’ll go and get your soup from Moominpappa, keep breathing. Ok?” 

“Yes. Thank you.” He said and continued his breathing exercises. God, he hadn’t had a panic attack like that in years. He felt slightly embarrassed that the others had witnessed his weakness. 

“Mr. Joxter are you alright?” The young Moomintroll asked in a hushed voice while he approached slowly. 

“Yes.” He lied. “I am just processing how much I’ve missed...far too much I suppose.” 

Moomintroll nodded, “I see...You’ve been gone uh… you said you were gone since before I was born, yes?”

“Seventeen years.” 

“Yeesh- I mean yeah. I can see how that’s scary.”

Joxter smiled slightly at the younglings reaction; he decided it would be best to change the subject a little. “That Snufkin kid, is he a traveller?”

“Yeah he leaves every winter and comes back in the spring.” Moomin said, “I hibernate most of the time he is gone so I don’t notice it as bad as if he was gone while I was awake...but knowing he is out there, alone...l.” Moomin looked down. “I just don’t want him getting hurt.”

Joxter nodded, “it makes sense to worry, you care for him a great deal.”

Moomintroll squeaked in surprise his face going red, “Well of course he is my best friend.”

Joxter raised an eyebrow, but he didn’t question the kid. Their relations were none of his concern.

“Yes of course.”

“Yeah…”

Moominmamma walked into the room with a bowl in hand with a cloth underneath. She set it on the table next to the Newspaper and reading glasses and then picked them up and moved them to Moominpappa’s chair. 

“Soup is served.” She said cheerfully. “Now Moomin it's getting pretty late.”

“I know.” Moomintroll sighed and turned to Joxter. “Goodnight Mr. Joxter.”

“Goodnight Moomintroll.”

Chapter Text

“How are you doing old friend?” Moominpappa asked taking the empty bowl from Joxter. 

“Much better I’d say.” Joxter smiled, “Moominmaiden-I mean Moominmamma’s cooking is as wonderful as ever and she helped immensely in my little...panic.”

“I agree she truly is splendid.” Moominpappa said as he took off his hat and hung it on a nearby coat rack then headed back over to his chair where he moved his things back over to the small table.

“Now… what is it you were going to tell me about?”

Joxter fidgeting nervously, “you remember those dreams I would sometimes have?”

“The ones that were connected to you're forebodings?” 

“I had a new one.” Joxter said.

He explained the basis of his dream, with his childhood home and the dragon and then the fruit tree’s revival and the music. 

“Then I turned and I saw you. You told me it was time to come back and so...here I am.”

“Hmm.” Moominpappa leaned back in his chair.

“That IS quite interesting…”

“I was hoping you’d know how to interpret it since my dream clearly wanted me to be back here.”

“Well, I’m not an expert on dream reading...but I’ve read prophetic dreams can be tricky to read. Sometimes you first see it one way when it really reads another. Now…I can try my best, but it probably won’t be completely accurate. Are you ok with that?”

“Yeah.”

“Ok...first, the reason your dream was probably showing us was because you miss us?”

“I do, yes.” 

The older Moomin smiled, “but you miss someone more.”

“Mymble…”

“She could have turned into a bird because you see her as unreachable now….”

That does make sense. He nodded.

“The sprout and the tree could have to do with her being pregnant? Or it could mean that you're family’s tree is back-”

Joxter’s eyes widened, “-that would be impossible. There was nothing left and we checked!”

Moominpap frowned, “this is just a guess my friend.”

“I know, I know… so what about the music?” Joxter asked. “What do you think that has anything to do with this?”

Moominpappa frowned, “perhaps you need to practice music? Or the music is the gateway to the next part or you're life?”

“Perhaps.” Joxter said. “We will have to see ...but I guess I could start playing music again. Though I don’t have any of my instruments.”

“You played guitar, yes?”

“Yes, but I don’t have it anymore, I left them behind with my Mymble.”

The Moomin hummed, got up and headed over to the stairs.

“I actually borrowed you're guitar sometime ago to learn some myself. It was an artistic endeavor that nothing came of. So if you want it back…”

Joxter left his tail wagging fast behind him. “You have her?”

Moominpappa nodded and ran up the stairs. Moments later he returned with the dark red guitar case that Joxter missed ever dearly.

He opened it and marveled at the sight of his lost darling.

“Oh Moomin!” He said excitedly. “I will do nothing but play for weeks!”

The Moomin laughed, “don’t forget to eat and sleep as well.”

“Yes, yes.” He ran his hand along the polished wood and metal strings. Oh how joyful a reunion this was!

“I think I may head up for the night. We have a guest room, but you're not allowed to use it.” Moominpappa said heading for the stairs.

“Like that will stop me.” Joxter laughed and shut the guitar case.

___________________________

He was lost in the woods, but this was nothing new to him. He felt calm as he wandered further and further. Eventually he realised he was carrying a seed, so he leant to the ground buried it in the damp soil. He sat by the seed and watch the sky change for many, many days. However nothing grew. In his sorrow, he played a song upon a flute. 

Then the earth rattled as the seed sprouted.

Moomin came out of nowhere and pulled him away as it grew and grew. His friends stood around him in awe as the tree flourished and grew fruit. It grew until it was overwhelmingly big. He turned to Moomin who also seemed scared. The fruit fell down from the branches and people started angrily yelling at the tree. He tried to run between everyone, but they only got angrier.

A bird flew above and landed in the tree. He called to the bird for help but they were too far away to hear. The tree wrapped around him in the midst of the panic and he felt himself being pulled in. He turned to Moomin for help. “What do I do?!”

Then Moomin spoke.

“Snufkin, are you alright?”

Snufkin opened his eyes and was met face to face with Teetywoo. He screamed in shock moving away quickly.

“I’m not that ugly am I?” Teetywoo asked.

“No-no, you just surprised me.” Snufkin said calming himself. “I’m sorry about that.”

“No I should be apologizing! I shouldn’t have woken you-“

“Its alright...wasn’t a very good dream.” Snufkin explained, “in fact it was a terrible one, just horrible and it felt so real.”

“Do you want to talk about it?”

“Not really…” 

“Ok.” Teetywoo turned to walk out of the tent and then turned back, “Oh! Um, Snufkin, wanted to apologize for guilting you into playing me a song last night… it wasn’t very nice of me.”

“It's fine. Besides, even though you guilted me into it, we are friends, I know you mean nothing by it truly..” Snufkin realized too late what he had said and Teetywoos expression had melted into pure glee.

“We’re friends?!” They asked jumping towards him.

“Yes?” Snufkin slowly answered, slightly unsure if he should have or not.

The creature jumped up and down in glee.

“This makes me so happy Snufkin! I have to go tell all of buddies in the forest that we are friends! They are never going to believe me!” 

Snufkin smiled as Teetywoo scurried out of his tent and into the woods.

Finally, peace and quiet.

He turned to grab his fishing rod, but out of the corner of his eye he saw Moomin running down from Moominhouse in his direction. 

Will he ever get to fish in silence for once?

Chapter Text

It was bright and early and the sun was barely risen, but Moomin was wide awake. He opened his window and felt the warm summer wind as it rushed in; then went to his desk and grabbed the kites. 

On his way down he was surprised by the sound of guitar from the first floor. He heard his parents muffled laughter and pondered if his Pappa had taken up guitar again. No… this sounded far better than his Pappa ever played. That may not have sounded very nice, but it was true. 

As he rounded the last steps Moomin was surprised to find that the Joxter was the one playing.

“Good Morning Moomin!” Moominmamma greeted him.

“Wow, that sounds really good!” Moomintroll complimented, “Pappa never mentioned you could play!” Moominpappa mostly told them that the Joxter was lazy and mischievous. 

“I never really played much around him.” Joxter said shrugging, “Or anyone...besides Mymble.”

“Well, we quite enjoy it.” Moominmamma said and chuckled, “you and Snufkin, with your musical talents, could start a band. Imagine how merry that would be.”

“Oh yeah!” Moomin said. “He is pretty good at harmonica. Though he’d probably hate the idea.”

“Hm, I do prefer solo, but it is nice to play alongside someone from time to time. Joxter said.

“I will have to bring it up to him-but I want to first catch him to fly our kites.” Moomin said holding up the kites he made proudly.

“Come back in a bit ok? I’m making breakfast.” Moominmamma said. “Invite Snufkin if you wish.”

“Ok! Bye!” Moomin said and dashes from the home.

He was just in time too, Snufkin had just emerged from his tent and looked in his direction.

Moomin smiled and waved and Snufkin waved back.

“Snufkin! Good Morning!”

The Mumrik nodded, “morning Moomintroll.” 

Moomin ran up to his friend and held out the kites. “I think the wind is perfect this morning to start flying these!”

Snufkin looked up at the sky and then closed his eyes, “you're right Moomin, the wind is quite perfect, but-“

“-And then my Mom said you can come to breakfast- Wait you said ‘but’, are you busy?”

“I was going to fish by myself for a bit. I’ve had a long two days, so I’m a little worn out.”

Moomin agreed that the last two days felt like they drew on forever, but he really wished to fly his kites. The tired look Snufkin was giving him was enough to not push his luck however.

“Oh… I understand. Come by if you feel up to hanging out, ok? I will give you some space for now though.”

Snufkin smiled, “thank you.”

Moomin watched Snufkin wander into the forest to find a good fishing spot.

Perhaps today would just be a resting day. 

It was like Snorkmaiden said, he wasn’t attached to Snufkin, he could be away from his friend for one day. 

He wondered what his other friends were up to.

__________________________

Joxter sat on the veranda fence strumming away quite happily. After breakfast he decided he needed a little space to himself.

“Oh so you play as well, huh?” Little My asked. 

He looked down at her with a smile, “don’t you remember me playing guitar to you and you're siblings?”

“I don’t remember everything from back then. I just recognized you because of you're stupid hat and tail.” 

Joxter smiled, “wouldn’t you know? This is actually not the same hat.”

“Really now? What happened to you're last one?”

“A shark ate it.” Joxter explained, “it was as big as the boat I was on. I thought I was a goner for sure!”

“Ha! You smell like last week's garbage so it probably lost its appetite.”

Joxter hadn’t had a bath in quite a while, not because he didn’t like them, he just didn’t have the time. He supposed he may as well do that soon, but decided to pretend he didn’t care.

“I quite like my smell.” Joxter said and continued to play.

“Well yeah, you're used to it, but all of us have to deal with it now that you're around.” The small Mymble reminded him. She seemed angry-more than she usually was at the very least.

 He wondered if she knew or overheard what happened. 

“Do you remember anything that happened after I left?” Joxter asked.

“I know enough.” Little My shot back annoyed.

Joxter could feel himself sweat. “...and what is it you know?”

“Well, Mom got really sick a couple times and then hid away from us for a while. So Mymble Jr. had to take care of us. You remember Mym?”

“Of course I do.” He huffed, “I remember quite a few of your siblings in fact.”

“You're a lot better than a lot of my Mom’s boyfriends then.” Little My said and laughed like it was a joke, but it probably wasn’t.

“Anyways. Mom got over it, then introduced a new kit. Then Long story short, Mym and Mom got in a fight. I thought if was cool that she stood up to her. I followed Mym to live somewhere else and we ended up living with the Moomins, until we had a place for ourselves.

Joxter nodded, “that's quite a story. So where does your Mom live these days?”

“Same place as before,  just a bit outside the Valley.”

“Ah, I think I remember.” Joxter said looking out at the trees. “And where do you and Mym live? It would be nice to see her again.”

“She lives a little bit downstream near the police station.”

At the mention of the police Joxter almost puked, “why does she live that close-“

“Her and the police officer were dating for a while.“

“Ew.”

“She realized she wasn’t really interested in him that way and broke it off. Thank Groke, am I right?”

Joxter nodded and hopped down next to My.

“Is Mym in today?”

“Hm...I think she is busy today with something else. I can make sure she is free tomorrow.”

“Should I be concerned about what you mean by that?”

Little My only smiled and then ran off.

_________________

As Little My ran towards her house she noticed Moomin, Sniff and Snorkmaiden digging holes in a nearby field. They were up to something and she wanted to know what.

“What are you guys up to?” She asked.

“Digging for buried treasure.” Sniff said with a smug expression. “Yours truly found a treasure map and Snorkmaiden and I have been looking for it for a day and a half now.”

“Wait- you found a treasure map and you didn’t tell me?” Little My asked.

“Sorry Little My.” Snorkmaiden apologized. Little My noted that she in fact didn’t look sorry.

“Oooh- I know, you guys were planning on finding the treasure and keeping it all to yourselves! I bet you weren’t even going to tell Moomin and I!” She accused pointing over to the troll hard at work a little ways away.

“Moomin was hanging out with Snufkin all of yesterday and you were helping Moominmamma with chores.” Snorkmaiden argued back.

Little My huffed, “who told you that?”

“Moominmamma, when we came to find you guys.” 

“How could she!” Little My cried and fell to her knees dramatically. “She knows how much I love treasure hunting!” She didn’t could never hold a grudge against Moominmamma, but she was pretty close to it.

“Sorry Little My-“ 

“Guys I found something!” Moomin called out and the three looked over to Moomin who held something golden in his hands.

“Shiny! Gimme!” Sniff said and snatched the item. 

“A flute?” Snorkmaiden asked and examined the item Sniff held. 

“Is that what you were looking for?” Little My asked. In response Snorkmaiden handed her their map which she began to examine. 

“On the back it gives a clue” Snormaiden explained, “though it’s kind of vague.” 

By the old oak tree

Below the earth it lie

The long forgotten key

To a lullaby. 

Covered with a gold

That dances in the sun

The riches will unfold

When all is said and done

“I guess this is my chance to surpass Snufkin in musical ability.” Sniff said and tries to play the flute. Except, nothing came from the woodwind. “Hm odd...perhaps it’s clogged.”

“It's pretty difficult to play Flute.” Snorkmaiden reminded him, “I played once, so let me demonstrate.” 

She took the instrument and blew into it, but still nothing. “Perhaps it is clogged… Let's take it back to my place and clean it.”

Everyone agreed and they headed out towards the Snorks home.

Chapter Text

Snufkin sighed in contentment as he watched for the fish to bite. He could probably lay here for hours...and perhaps he would! He closed his eyes and stretched lazily. The shade of the trees and the nice breeze made this spot even more perfect. 

Splash, Splash, Splash.

What now? He opened his eyes to see a bear staring back.

Oh boy...

He stayed perfectly still, what should he do?

The bear grunted and looked at his bucket of freshly caught fish.

Ah, of course. 

Snufkin slowly reached to the bucket and then emptied its contents onto the ground. He backed up slowly without breaking eye contact. 

The bear steadily moved forward and started to eat. It seemed quite content in itself as it ate Snufkin's dinner.

Snufkin felt his stomach growl and instantly regretted not taking up Moomin’s offer for breakfast.

___________________________

“Another paper?” Little My asked Snorkmaiden. Snorkmaiden nodded, “yeah, it was blocking up the pipe...but the paper is just covered in dots and dashes. What does that mean?”

The group was set up in the Snorks kitchen huddled around the table they made kites at. 

“Dots and dashes huh…” Sniff was silent in thought, “maybe its a music sheet?”

“It doesn’t look like any music sheet I’ve seen before.” Snorkmaiden noted.

“Maybe it's a different language… we could ask Snork.” Moomin suggested.

“Good idea Moomin!” Snorkmaiden agreed. They headed into the backyard where Snork was sitting with his blueprints and books. 

“Brother do you know what this means?” Snorkmaiden asked.

“It looks like morse code.”

“What language is that?” Little My asked.

“It's not really another language per say.” Snork explained, “it's just another way to portray our language...though it's usually not written.”

“What does it say?” Sniff asked.

Snork scratched his head in puzzlement. “I’m not sure...but what I am sure of is that Moominpappa may have a book on it somewhere.”

Sniff jumped excitedly, “then we are off to Moominhouse!”

____________________

The bear wouldn’t leave and Snufkin needed his things. Crouched in the bushes he peaked out at the Bear that was sat right by his fishing rod. The fishing rod still sat waiting for a bite of fish.

Perhaps he could creep out and fetch it...or he could distract it with something. He picked up a rock from the ground and gripped it tightly. All he had to do was divert the bears attention.

He threw the rock across the creek into some bushes. 

“Ow.” A voice said surprising not only Snufkin, but the bear as well. 

The bear got up and started to walk across the creek which gave Snufkin the perfect chance to fetch his things.

Pulling his fishing rod out of the water he was surprised to find a fish on the other end. The world didn’t have it out for him after all! 

He quickly tossed it in his bucket and was about to run away when a scream came from ahead of him.

“A bear!” The voice was familiar. He couldn’t place who, but it didn’t matter. He had to help them.

He ran through the shallow water, getting his feet thoroughly soaked and grabbed the fish from the bucket.

Up ahead he could now see two people backed into a corner, facing the bear ahead of them.

“Too-Ticky!” 

“Don’t worry Mym I won’t let it hurt you.”

“But I don’t want you to get hurt!”

Too-Ticky smiled, but kept her protective stance, “you don’t scare me bear! I’ve faced worse!” She called to it.

The bear stood up on its hind legs, towering over her, but she stood her ground to protect Mym.

Snufkin had to think quick, he scooped up a handful of pebbles and threw them at the bear.

“Hey! Mud-brain!” Snufkin shouted grabbing the last fish from his bucket. “You hungry?”

The bear quickly turned and its gaze followed the fish around.

“Go fetch then!” Snufkin said throwing it to the side.

The bear ran towards it and into the brush.

“Oh Groke, thank you!” Mym started, but Snufkin was not going to stay and talk until the bear came back. “Let’s talk somewhere more safe.” He said and ran away, while the two ladies followed close behind.

_____________________________

Moomin and his friends waited patiently for Moominpappa to decipher the coded message. It felt like hours, the clock ticked slowly and the house was dead silent.

“I think I have it!” Moominpappa announced.

“What does it say?” Little My asked leaning forward to get a peak. 

“I believe these are in fact music notes.” Moominpappa explained handing the sheet to Moomin. “Perhaps the lullaby that your map speaks of.” 

“Oh! Let me try playing it.” Snorkmaiden requested, the Flute still in her possession.

“Be our guest!” Moominpappa said and chuckled to himself. 

Moomin handed her the sheet and after looking over the notes a couple times she brought the flute to her mouth. Then she took in a deep breath and-

_____________________

The Joxter fell out of a tree he was napping in as an unimaginably horrible screech filled the air. Dazed he rubbed his head and pulled his hat over his face. “Guess I’ll sleep down here for a bit.”

______________________

“Oh dear….” Moominmama mumbled as she examined the new cracks in her windows. 

“I’m terribly sorry Moominmama.” Snorkmaiden apologize for the hundredth time, “I swear I have never played a flute that poorly before…”

“It's fine Snorkmaiden, these old things needed replaced soon anyways.” Moominmama said turning to face her, “though I’m sure it had nothing to do with you at all.”

“What do you mean?” Snorkmaiden asked.

“That flute you're holding…” She mumbled, “I believe it could be cursed.”

“CURSED?!” Snorkmaiden threw the instrument and Moomin and Sniff dived to catch it. They both ran right into each other, but managed to save it from damage.

“Careful Snorkmaiden! We went through a lot of trouble to get this!” Sniff said rubbing his head.

“I’m sorry, I don’t want to risk hurting myself or others with that thing.” She explained shuttering in fear. 

“I think we should at least try it, maybe it’s just picky.” Little My suggested.

“Oh me next!” Sniff exclaimed, but before he could play Moominmamma cut in.

“Please play elsewhere. I don’t want to risk any more damage.” 

“Yes Moominmamma.”

Chapter Text

Snufkin collapsed in pure exhaustion, along with the other two that were following him.

“Thank you...again.” Mym said while she tried to catch her breath. Too-Ticky sat on the ground and stretched her arms out. 

“That was some quick thinking out their kid. Thanks for the help.”

Snufkin took off his hat and sat up and felt himself shaking a little from either adrenaline or fear. Perhaps it was a bit of both.

“It’s not a problem.” He answered and looked at Mym, “it's been a while.” 

“Yeah.” She said nodding.

“Hm? You two know each other?” Too-Ticky asked. 

“This is Snufkin, one of my younger sisters friends.”

“Oh, you're the mumrik my friend Moomin is always talking about in winter.”

“You know Moomin?” Snufkin asked.

“Yeah, I stay in his family bathhouse over the winter.” Too-Ticky explained, “He sometimes can’t sleep and comes over to hang out. All he talks about is either how pretty winter is or how much he misses his best friend.”

Snufkin felt his heart drop to his stomach. Moomin had never told him that he was awake during winter- though if it was because of him he could see why the troll wouldn’t want to. 

“Glad to see you really do measure up the brave traveling hero Moomin describes you as.”

“I wouldn’t say that.”

“Modest as well.” Too-Ticky smiled and shared a look with Mym.

“Just like he described you.”

Snufkin didn’t know what to say to that, but thankfully Mym interrupted the silence.

“Well, I’d say that was an eventful walk Too-Ticky. Let's all head back to my place and I’ll treat you for tea.” 

“You don’t have to-“

“I insist.” Mym said taking his arm, “you did save us after-all.”

He was also the one who’d gotten them in trouble in the first place...

Too-Ticky rubbed her head sorely.

“I think that bear was really mad, it threw a rock right at me.” Snufkin bit his lip and wondered if he should confess to that or not.

“I will have to look at it when we get home dear.” Mym said as they walked.

Dear? He looked at the two ahead of him, perhaps they were coupled. They did seem awfully close, but he didn’t want to assume anything.

When they made it to the small house that Mym and Little My lived in, Mym turned to look at Snufkin.

“You seem dirtier then usual.”

“I was taking a nap by the creek, I suppose it was a little muddy.” Snufkin explained while shrugging. He tried to enter, but Mym stood in his way.

“Alright Mister. Since you saved us I’m going to allow you to use my tub.”

“I don’t need a bath.” Snufkin countered but the looks both Too-Ticky and Mym shot him said otherwise.

“Sorry hun, but you smell.” Too-Ticky apologized.

Snufkin sighed looking down at his mud crusted hand and coat. Perhaps it would be for the best. Besides, when else would he get a chance like this?

“I suppose-“

“Great!” I’ll go start the water and get you some towels!” Mym exclaimed. “Too-Ticky dear, would you start the tea?”

“Sure thing Mym.”

Snufkin was lead to the bathroom and Mym started the water. 

“Ok, I’ll be right back.” Mym said. 

“Ok.”

Once she was gone Snufkin removed his boots, hat and coat. He noticed the tub was full enough and turned it off. The steam rolling off the top made it look warm and inviting.

“Ok, I found two towels so-“ Mym stopped mid sentence and Snufkin turned to her.

“What?”

“You have a tail.” She said in utter shock.

______________________

“So, for Snorkmaiden it screeched unfathomably,” Little My noted. “And now, for Sniff, it won’t make a single sound.”

“It may be shy!” Sniff countered trying again for the fifth time and Little My laughed. 

“Alright!” He shouted, “if you are enjoying this so much, how about you take a shot at it?”

“Gladly.” Little My smiled and took the flute from his hands. She blew into it and jarring notes came from the pipe. She pulled away quickly and handed it to Moomin. “Welp, that’s all I got. It's your turn now.”

Moomin frowned and gripped the flute.

“I suppose.” Moomin sighed and put the flute to his lips. As soon as he did, he started to see images of Snufkin leaving. He pulled away quickly. 

“You didn’t even play!” Little My complained. 

“Sorry.” Moomin apologized, “let me try one more time.”

Again he lifted the instrument to his lips and again he was met with images of Snufkin leaving. He quickly forgot that these images were only the effects of the flute as he reached out for his friend. It wasn’t even Winter, he to stop him! Yet, he could do nothing but watch as Snufkin grew further and further away.

“Moomintroll!” Snorkmaiden said pulling the flute from him. 

Moomin fell to his knees in despair as tears spilled from his eye.

“What happened?” Sniff asked. 

“I saw...things when I placed my lips up against the flute.” He explained as he wiped his eyes.

“Perhaps we should just bury this back where we found it.” Snorkmaiden suggested. “It hasn’t revealed any treasure to us, so I suppose none of us are worthy of it.”

“Well, not everyone has tried it yet.” Little My brought up. “For one, Snufkin.”

“I will ask him to try it out next time I see him.” Moomin suggested as he stood back up. Though he had no idea when that would be.

“In the meantime I supposed I’ll head home.” Little My said with a sigh, “I need to talk to Mym about something anyways.”

“Tell me if Snufkin is able to play it.” Sniff said, “I’ll head home too; I’m quite tired.”

After the two left it was just Moomintroll and Snorkmaiden.

“I suppose I should be heading home as well, it is getting quite close to dinner time.” 

Moontroll looked down that the flute curiously. “Do you think anyone can play this?”

“If anyone can, it’d be Snufkin. He has a knack for anything musical.” Snorkmaiden answered honestly. “Though, it's been so stubborn. I honestly think there is more to this flute than we know.”

“I wonder who buried it and why there is a curse on it.”

“Hmm...You should ask Alicia.” Snorkmaiden suggested. “She would know more about this magic stuff.”

Moomin perked up excitedly, “that's a good idea!”

________________________

“I-don’t know what you mean!” Snufkin said and quickly turned in a way she couldn’t see it.

“Snufkin, I saw it.” She said stepping forward. “It’s ok.”

He felt uncomfortable, “What do you mean it's ok? Mumriks aren’t supposed to have tails.”

It might have been silly, but when he was younger, Snufkin thought it was the reason his parents gave him up. Mostly, because he was made fun of by the other Mumriks in the orphanage for his tail. He had never considered it a good part of him, and even opted to wear longer clothes to cover it up. Ever since than Moomin was the only one who’d known. 

“Well, are you sure you're full mumrik?”

“Of course I am.” What did she mean? He hadn’t heard of Mymbles mating with anyone but Mumriks. Though... it could be possible. Mym had dated the police officer and was possibly dating Too-Ticky now...but mating was a different story. They’re species would have to be compatible. Like Moomin and Snorkmaiden, though he didn’t like thinking about that. Could his mother or father have been a different type of troll? 

“Are you sure?” She asked. Snufkin wanted to run, but the Mymble was blocking the doorway.

“I..don’t know.”

Mym tilted her head, “why not?”

“I never knew my parents.” Snufkin answered truthfully pulling his things close to his chest.

The Mymble's eyes widened and she stepped forward. “Snufkin-“

When she stepped forward she gave just enough room that Snufkin was able to slip past. He ran down the hall, grabbed his fishing supplies and ran through the front door nearly running into Little My on the way out.

“Snufkin?!” Little My asked as he passed her.

Snufkin didn’t stop, he kept running and running as fast as his legs could take him. All he wanted was some peace and quiet and apparently he had better luck finding that with Moomintroll than the rest of the Valley. He reached the bridge and looked up toward the cylindrical blue house ahead of him. Perhaps, they could finally fly kites.

“You aren’t going to find Moomintroll here.” A gravelly voice said from behind him making him jump.

“Where did he go?” Snufkin asked turning to the Joxter.

“Apparently he found some sort of magical doohickey and decided to visit the witch tonight.” The Joxter explained. 

Snufkin’s eyes widened, “alone?”

“He went with Moominmamma. She baked a pie and thought it would be a good exchange for some magical knowledge.”

Snufkin sighed in relief, “ah. That's good.” 

The Joxter squinted his eyes. “You look like you ran a hundred miles. What’s got you in a hurry?”

“There was a bear in the woods.” Snufkin lied-though it wasn’t technically a lie. “A rather hungry one too.”

Joxters eyes widened and then narrowed as he looked out toward the wood, “I hope that the Moomin’s don’t run into it.” 

Snufkin nodded, “I’m sure they will be fine. Moominmama is very resourceful and Moomintroll is a lot tougher than he looks.”

“Oh I know. Moominpappa was exactly like the small Moomintroll is now, though he was a little more independent.”

Snufkin nodded looked out at the setting sun and leaned against the fence.

“Care if I smoke?” The Joxter asked pulling out his pipe.

Snufkin pulled out his own, “I suppose, as long as I can join.”

“How... old are you?” 

“Old enough. Though I wouldn’t care anyway.”

The Joxter laughed at that. 

The Sunset was beautiful that night, but Snufkin could only think of Moomin as he watched it. He was very much looking forward to flying those kites, but he supposed he made Moomin wait so he’d do the same.

____________________

“What, by the boobles tail, was that all about?” Little My asked walking into the house.

“You all had Snufkin running like winter was here already.”

Mym poked her head out of the bathroom and sighed, “it seems I made him uncomfortable.”

“You? Make him uncomfortable?” Too-Ticky asked coming in from the other room with a tray of tea. “Care for a cup My? Seems we have one too many since Snufkin ran off.”

“Yes please! Two sugars!” My answered.

“Now Dear, what did you do that made him so uncomfortable?” Too-Ticky asked as they walked to the kitchen.

“Well…” Mym didn’t know if she should talk about it...he seemed quite keen on keeping it a secret. “I asked him which color of towel he preferred. He couldn’t make up his mind and then left in a hurry.”

“Hm. Wouldn’t pin Snufkin as an indecisive sort…” My frowned. Mym’s eyes widened. My took a sip of tea and closed her eyes, “but who knows, he is quite inscrutable.”

Mym sighed in relief, “Yes...anyways what's brought you home so early Little My?”

“Oh! You wouldn’t believe it! An old friend popped by the Moomin House last night!”

“An old friend?” Mym couldn’t think of anyone. “Who?”

Little My smiled, “they wanted to meet up here to talk to you tomorrow. So make sure to be around when they show up.”

“When who shows up?” Mym asked again slightly annoyed. 

“You’ll see.” Little My said finishing her tea in one gulp.

“Please don’t dance around my question.” Mym said pouting.

Little My jumped from the chair and danced until she reached her room.

“Sorry Sis, you’ll just have to find out then!”

Once Little My closed her door Too-Ticky leaned towards her. “Now…what was the real reason Snufkin left.”

Mym sighed, “I’ll tell you later dear.”

Chapter Text

Moomintroll and Moominmamma got to the witch's house earlier that evening, just before the sun had set. Perhaps they should have waited to visit, but Moominmamma insisted they leave then so they could give them a freshly baked pie.

“Is that pie I smell?” Alicia asked from behind them causing the two trolls to jump in fright. “Oh! Sorry for scaring you!”

“It's quite alright dear.”

“Hello Alicia!” Moomin greeted.

“What's this noise all about?” Alicia’s Grandmother asked opening the door. “Alicia! Did you get the materials I asked for?”

“Yes.” Alicia said pulling out a bag. “I just got back.”

The older witch turned to them, “Hello Moomin’s, I’m sorry I am very busy right now.” She took the sack from Alicia and then went back into the house.

“What's gotten her so wound up?” Moomin asked.

“She has seasonal allergies and ran out of the ingredients for her potion.” Alicia explained.

“I hope she feels better.” Moominmamma said.

“Me too...anyways, what brings you two around?”

“We found something in the woods…” Moomin explained holding out the golden flute to her. “And we were hoping in exchange for this pie you could help us figure out what kind of magic is on it. Mama says it may be a curse.”

Alicia nodded and took the flute. “This definitely is a cursed flute, and it’s also the flute of a forest spirit.” 

“A forest spirit?!” Moominmamma asked in shock.

“What is a forest spirit?” Moomin asked looking between the pair.

“A forest spirit is a creature who is born of the forest and will only live as long as the forest lives.” She examined it a little more, “did you try playing it?”

“Yes?”

“What happened?”

“Either nothing, terrible screeching or visions”

“Visions?”

“Like things that make you sad.” Moomin explained.

“Well...” Alicia said, “Good news is that this flute isn’t evil. It seems like it’ll only allow those truly connected with nature play it though.”

“Could you play it then?” Moomin asked.

“Possibly, but you do have a musical friend who would be much more fitting. Has he tried to play this yet?”

“Not yet,” Moomin said, “Snufkin needed time alone so I was giving him space.”

“Well, then have him try it out, if doesn’t work you can bring it back for me. Ok?” 

“Sure thing!” Moomin agreed with a smile.

Moominmama stepped forward and handed Alicia the picnic basket.

“I hope you have a lovely night. Thank you so much for your help.”

“It’s no problem, have a good night as well! Safe travels!”

Once she headed into the witch's hut Moominmamma turned to Moomin. “Perhaps we should have asked to stay the night… but I’m sure we will be fine walking back.”

“Yeah.” Moomin agreed, “shouldn’t take us too long.”

__________________________

Snufkin was tired. He had started his campfire and eaten a while before and was now staring up at the sky in a blissful peace.

Either way, his eyes were growing heavy and his fire was slowly dying out. Grabbing a bucket of water he poured out the fire. The smoke rose quickly as it died down. He sighed and began his nightly routine. Today might not have been his day, but there was always tomorrow. He felt his tail flick underneath his coat and felt himself flush in embarrassment about. Of course, plenty of creatures had tails. In fact, Moomin, Snorkmaiden and Sniff all had tails. However Snufkin was made fun of for being the only mumrik he knew with a tail. Moomin was the only one to know about it and the only person to not be completely taken aback by it. Though Moomin was quite ignorant about other species which was both a good and bad thing depending on the situation. Moomin…. Snufkin had been having a bad feeling and it had been eating at the back of his mind all afternoon. He looked out at the forest again, it was quite late...they...shouldn’t they be back by now?

He jumped when a shrill scream came from the forest.

Was that Moominmamma? He had never heard her scream like that.

He quickly stood up and ran into the forest, running and running. Was Moominmamma hurt? Was Moomintroll hurt? He wouldn’t bare to think of it. The bear from earlier that day came back to mind and his whole body filled with an awful dread.

“Moomin sweetie it’s climbing up!” Moominmamma’s voice shouted from nearby. Snufkin knew they were close, but where?

He stopped when he saw the bear. It was larger than it was earlier and its eyes were glowing. It was clawing up a large tree in front of it in a terrible rage. Snufkin back up a bit noticing Moomin and Moominmamma on a lower branch quite close to the beast of a bear. As he stepped back however a twig snapped underneath him.

The bears head snapped around focusing its attention on Snufkin. It dropped from the tree and towered over him.

“Snufkin?” Moomin asked in disbelief before realizing the trouble his friend was in, “Snufkin run!”

However Snufkin couldn’t move, his legs felt stiff as if they were nailed to the ground.

With a roar the bear lifted it arms in what was sure to be a powerful strike until Moomin jumped down from the tree on top of it. In its confusion it reared backward into the tree Moomin along with it.

“Moomin!” Snufkin said stepping forward.

“S-snufkin take this.” Moomin said throwing something at him. “What…?” Snufkin reached down and picked up a golden flute, “what is this Moomin?”

“It's a flute!” Moominmamma said from above, “try playing it!”

“This is hardly the time-“

“Play it Snufkin!” Moomin said as the bear continued to try and knock troll from off its back.

Snufkin lifted the flute to his mouth quickly and immediately felt a blissful feeling like no other he had felt. Blowing into the flute he was surprised by the mystical tone that surfaced from it, as he’d never played a flute before. Without his permission his fingers danced along the golden instrument and a song formed from within. He couldn’t explain the feeling if he tried, he felt like he would almost burst it was so joyous the feeling he had. He smiled as he played and felt his feet move freely as flowers sprouted around him in all sorts of colors. 

The bear had stopped its scuffle as soon as the first note was played and slowly curled up in a content sleep. 

Moomin watched in wonder as the forest around them glowed. Fireflies danced along with Snufkin as he played. It was nothing like he had ever played before.

“How lovely.” Moominmamma said from her spot in the tree. Moomintroll looked up at her. “It seems the spirit of the forest is content.”

Moomin looked back at the bear who had at some point disappeared. He smiled, “yeah-“ he tried to stand, but something was wrong. “Ow.”

Immediately Snufkin stopped his playing and came over. Moomin could swear that his eyes and hair were glowly a soft gold for a slight second before he kneeled by his friend. 

“Moomin whats wrong?” 

“I think I sprained my ankle.” Moomin told him and winced in pain.

“Snufkin help me down, I’ll take a look at it.” Moominmamma said. Snufkin ran over to the base of the tree and took her hand as she made one final jump down from the trunk.

She made her way out to Moomin and curiously examined the trolls hurt leg. “Oh dear...I believe you are right.” She turned towards the mumrik, “Snufkin I will need help giving him support.”

Snufkin nodded and they each took one of Moomin’s arms around them.

“Thanks.” Moomin said his eye squinting in pain.

Snufkin nodded. Then they began their trek back to Moominhouse.

Chapter Text

“Joxter! Joxter!” Little My’s voice called out from below. The Joxter sat up quickly from his spot in the tree almost falling out in the process.

“What-what is it?” He asked. The sun was barely rising over the horizon and everything seemed to be freshly covered in dew. 

“You wanted to meet with my sister today, right? She is expecting you now.” Little My said, she stood at the base of the tree with a smug expression. Joxter was annoyed at how awfully awake she seemed for so early in the morning.

“You told her I was coming over?” He asked. 

“Well, yeah.”

“And she wasn’t mad at me?” He asked. Joxter did not want to get punched in the face again; he still felt sore from Moominpappa’s slug. 

“Uh, not that I know of.” Little My said with a shrug. “I’ll take you there though, I know that you don’t know these parts as well as you used to.”

“I’m sure I can manage fine on my own.” Joxter muttered, but was only laughed at by the small Mymble. 

“Suurrrre.” She said drawing it out very long. “But don’t come crying if you can’t find your way.”

Joxter rolled his eyes and hopped down next to her. “You said she was next to the police station right? If it is still in the same spot I think I will find it easy enough.”

“I’m sure you’ve been there an awful lot.”

“No...I just knew to avoid the area.”

Little My hummed and turned towards Moominhouse.

“I’m not sure if Moomintrolls home at the moment.” Joxter informed her as he slung his guitar case over his shoulder.

“Hm?” Little My looked at him, “why not?”

“He and Moominmamma went to talk to the witches yesterday. If they had returned it would have been pretty late in the night.”

Little My frowned and looked towards the Moominhouse, “well, I guess can check.”

Joxter shrugged and began walking away, “tell them I’ll be back in a bit.”

“Alright!” My replied and scurried off towards the bridge.

____________________________

The Mymble Jr house was...cute and peaceful. It was surrounded by plenty of plant life which was always respectable.

 Joxter enjoyed the freshly baked pie smell wafting from the nearby kitchen windows. Oh, he wanted dearly to sneak and eat the pie...but he promised himself to be good. Besides, he could be offered a slice!

Joxter knocked on the door and shuttered at the feeling of conformity. Do it for Mymble Jr. He breathed out heavily through his nose and waited patiently. 

When the door opened he was greeted by a different face than he was expecting.

“Hello Snuf- no…. you look like him...but different.” The blonde girl greeted him.

“My name is the Joxter, Little Mymble probably mentioned I was stopping by...this is Mymble Jr’s home yes?”

The other was quiet for a second, then she smiled, “oh! You meant Little My! I don’t hear many call her Mymble very often.” She laughed and then opened the door, “come on in, Mym baked a pie. She said she could be right back, so make yourself at home.”

The Joxter slowly stepped into the home and jumped when the other stuck out her hand, “I’m Too-Ticky by the way.”

“Joxter.” He said as he warily reached his hand forward and shook hers.

“I-I know…” Too-Ticky said and laughed again, “now, lets cut some pie!”

She headed into the other room and Joxter followed close behind. 

“If you don’t mind me asking…” Joxter said sitting down at the table, “what's your relationship with Mymble Jr?”

“Mym and Me are courting, though she is also letting me stay here.” Too-Ticky said without hesitation. “We met at a party last Fall and she offered to let me stay here since Little My hibernates in the winter. I suppose she was lonely ...though I can appreciate the company as well.”

“You are not a cop, yes?

“By the Booble no. I would never!” She laughed, “you must know of her ex I assume.”

“Yes...Not a good match.” Joxter said and watched Too-Ticky cut the pie and place one on a plate. “I would say!”

She took the plate over to him as a knock came from the door.

“I wonder who that may be.” She said heading out. Once she did Joxter began to work on the pie. It was quite delicious, it was one of his Mymbles old recipes for sure. He felt himself smiling as he ate. This was nice. 

Then Mymble Jr walked through the backdoor into the kitchen. 

She looked at him and he looked at her, both completely silent. Joxter swallowed his food wondering if the Little My actually told her he was the one coming. 

“Joxter?” She asked the bag she was holding was clutched tightly in her hand. “JOXTER?” She repeated in a shout, “are you stealing the pie I made for my visitor? -scratch that what are you doing here in the first place, I thought you dropped off the face of the Earth?”

Too-Ticky came in holding a letter, “letter from Ninny darling!” She looked from Mym to Joxter several times before turning and leaving.

“Well?” Mym asked, “what do you have to say?”

“Long...time no see?” Joxter greeted unsurly.

________________________

“Now let me have a good look at it.” Mr. Hemulen said and examined Moomin’s ankle. “Luckily it's not too severe. I wouldn’t walk on it for a while if I was you. Now, you’ll probably just need bed rest, ice, and pain medicine. “ 

“I’m sure Grandma has a recipe for something of the sort in her book.” Moominmamma said as she pulled it out of her purse. “I can help fetch ingredients if you’d like.” The Hemulen offered.

Moomin sighed as the two left the room, Snufkin sat by his bed and fiddled with the flute in his hands.

“Are you sure you don’t want it?” Snufkin asked him.

“It wouldn’t work for anyone else… I think it chose you since you are the most attuned to nature.” Moomin explained and leaned back into his pillow.

Snufkin smiled a little bit, “I suppose it won’t hurt to broaden my instrument collection a little. Though it isn’t as easy to carry around as my harmonica.”

Moomin chuckled, “right, you can’t really fit that flute in your pocket.” 

Snufkin nodded, “you said this was a forest spirits flute yes?” 

“That is what Alicia said.” 

“Probably some pirate or something stole this from them. Then buried it when they couldn’t use it.” Snufkin said, “they should have returned it to them.” 

“Are you going to?” Moomin asked.

“Return it? Perhaps if I meet them I will.” Snufkin said and blew into the pipe making a gorgeous sound.

Moomin closed his eyes listening closely.

BAM! The door slammed open to Moomin’s room causing both of them to jump.

“My!” Moomin gasped. He clutched his sheets as he tried to regain his composure.

“What's this I hear about Moomin fighting a bear and breaking an ankle? I want to know all of it!”

Snufkin hummed in response.

“Me and Mamma were coming home when a bear crossed our path. It stopped when it noticed us and chased us up a tree. It started to climbAs well, but Snufkin came in-and I threw him the flute!”

Little My looked at the Flute. “What?”

“I jumped on the bear to stop it from attacking him and it reared back and wam! I hit my Ankle. Then Snufkin began to play and the bear fell asleep...it was absolutely breathtaking!”

Snufkin tilted his hat forward in embarrassment.

Little My turned to him, “oh! Play it for me! I’ve been dying to hear it.”

Snufkin looked up at her with an unsure expression, “I will, though I would like it to be clear...I don’t think I have any control when I am playing this flute. It has a mind of its own...it’s like it has its own muscle memory.”

Little My looked at the flute and then back to him, “show me then!”

He sighed and began to play and as soon as he did the room became full. The melody washed over them from the pipe like slipping into a nice warm bath. Snufkin's brown hair glowed in a golden light, almost like he was radiating with magic as he played.

Moomin wanted to close his eyes and listen, but his eyes stayed glued to the window sill.

Moomintroll reached out and touched Snufkin’s shoulder, and was surprised with a static shock. Snufkin stopped playing and looked at him curiously.

“Look.” Moomin said.

Snufkin and Little My looked towards Moominmamma’s flowers. Their vines had spread out and tanged into the window frames and out onto the wall and floor. The flowers themselves had grown large and happy. 

“Woah.” Little My said walking over to them. She pulled down a flower and smelled it. “Did you do this Snufkin?”

Snufkin looked down at the flute.

“I…” He turned the flute to Moomin. “I’m sorry Moomin, I don’t think I can keep this.”

“What? Why not?” Little My asked.

“It's...not for me.” Snufkin said, “It's far too powerful...who knows what trouble I could cause with this.”

“I doubt growing flowers will cause problems.” Moomin giggled.

Snufkin shook his head, not meeting the others eyes, “no...it's far worse. I think this has something to do with the change I thought was coming.”

“I thought it was gone?” Moomin asked.

“Me too...but perhaps it had just become so overwhelming I thought it had! I had almost forgotten about it but...I had a dream about this flute. I think it's going to mess everything up.” 

Moomin bit his lip. “Are...you sure?”

“Yes.” Snufkin whispered and tilted his hat. “I must be off now...the fish are calling.”

“Will you come visit tomorrow?” Moomin asked.

Snufkin smiled warmly back at him, “See you tomorrow.”

After he left Little My looked at him, “Are you really going to let him walk away like that? He was able to play it! Didn’t you see that?” She pointed towards the flowers. “He could make plants grow!”

Moomin shrugged, and looked down at the flute. A dream?

Chapter Text

Mym took Too-Ticky’s arm and pulled her away; Joxter could hear them whispering in the other room. She came in a second later and got a plate of pie for herself. Then she sat across from him, her arms folded. 

“Too-Ticky says you knocked on the door.” She said, she looked slightly impressed.

Joxter nodded, “I...wanted to make a good impression.”

She nodded sternly, “better than breaking in I suppose ...now...are you the one that My said was coming over?”

Joxter nodded.

She sighed and rubbed the bridge of her nose. “Ok...Well, I have a lot of questions, but let's start off with a simple one. Did Moominpappa fill you in on what happened after you left? I’m assuming you visited him first.”

Joxter nodded again.

“So you know about your kid.”

“I didn’t before that.”

“I assumed. You may have ignored us a lot, but you weren’t heartless to us...and I know how much you and Mom tried to have kids together.”

“I felt worse every time it didn’t work out.” Joxter said sadly.

“Is that why you left?”

“It was one of the reasons.” Joxter explained. “I also needed space... and that somehow lasted seventeen years.”

“After you left Mom was ok for a bit. She still had hope throughout her pregnancy that you’d be back to see your child. However, the time you’d said you’d be back came and went. She became sadder and sadder and was doting on your kid every day. I am the eldest so I was responsible for everyone Mom couldn’t take care of.” Mym paused and took a bite of the pie, once she had swallowed it she continued. “I was tired… so I told Mom that if she didn’t put more attention on the others that I would be forced to leave. She yelled at me and told me that if I left I’d be betraying her too. So I left, and Little My tagged along... I suppose that I’m really who caused her to put your kit in the orphanage. You can blame me for that.” She wiped her eyes.

Joxter shook his head, “I don’t blame you...this is my mess to begin with. I put myself in a position of responsibility and didn’t see it through. I should have been there for Mymble and my kit. It was a failure on my part for not only them but for you and the rest of your siblings.” Mymble Jr looked at him with a shocked expression. “I suppose I got so stuck with the feeling I as a partner couldn’t provide exactly what we wanted.... I forgot that's not what we needed. Being together...our family, Mymble, you, Little My, Mymbla, Mumble, Marble, and every single one of your siblings-they were all we needed to be happy. I suppose what I’m trying to say is...I’m sorry, I’ve been a very crappy father-if you even see me that way- and I want to try to fix the mistakes I’ve made.”

Mym smiled sadly, “ that...makes me so happy to hear Joxter. I’m glad you want to fix things with us, but please promise me something.”

“Yes?”

“Never hurt my Mother like that ever again.”

“Never again.” He promised, knowing that even if they were to meet it would never be like it was before.

_______________

Moomin sighed as he examined the golden flute in his hands. He wondered what the dream was about and what role the flute held in it. Snufkin seemed very spooked by it so he probably shouldn’t push- but he really wanted to know!

He’d have to wait to ask though since Snufkin wasn’t going to be back until the next day.

The sun was setting outside, but the flowers in the vase that were given a magic boost, were still going strong. 

“I heard you broke your leg.”

“Twisted my ankle.” Moomin corrected the Joxter who somehow came in undetected.

“Oh, well that's a little better. Nothing a little song won’t fix.”

“Oh! You're going to play for me?” Moomin asked, noticing the guitar at Joxters side.

“Yes! And it has nothing to do with your Mamma kicking me out of the kitchen!” He said jovially 

“What did you do?”

Joxter didn’t respond and sat down next to him where Moominmamma had been sitting earlier. 

“Any specific song requests?”

“Hm...anything is good for me!”

As he said this the Joxter grew rigid.

“Is that a flute?” The older man asked, pointing towards the metal instrument reflecting the sunlight.

“Yeah me and My friends found it. Apparently it's cursed.” Moomin explained. “Only Snufkin was able to play it though and he doesn’t like it very much.”

“How…so?”

“He said it was too powerful for him to handle, though all its been able to do is make plants grow-“

“-What?-“

“-dinners ready!” Moominmamma said coming in.

She took one look at them and then at the plants on the windowsill.

“Oh! Did Snufkin help my Tulips grow? How thoughtful.”

“Wait a second!” Joxter said pointing towards the flute. “Can I try playing that?”

Moominmamma’s smile faltered, “not in the house, also do try to behave at dinner. I don’t want you almost knocking anything else off of counters.”

Joxter’s head lowered, “yes ma’am.”

Moominmamma and Joxter helped Moomintroll down the stairs for a family dinner. Which was  absolutely scrumptious pumpkin soup! Moominmamma’s cooking never failed to impress anyone that tried it. 

Once he finished his meal Moomin looked over at the older gentleman who was holding the flute up examining it.

“So you're saying you and your friends couldn’t play it, but it let Snufkin play it since he is more intune with nature?” Joxter asked.

Moomin nodded, “oh yes, it was quite a magical sight. He even glowed and everything!”

The Joxter brought up the flute to his mouth, but another stern look from Moominmamma made him pull it down.

“I will be right back.” He said and headed out the door.

Moments later the man returned with a happy smile. “Listen to this!” He said and played the flute. It sounded nice, but it wasn’t as enchanting as Snufkin's playing had been.

“Oh that's quite lovely.” Moominmamma said, closing her eyes, “definitely good.”

“Magical even?” Joxter asked, his eyes squinting in question.

“No...I’m afraid not in the way Snufkin had been able to play it.” Moomin replied sadly. “As soon as he played he would glow in a golden light…”

“Interesting...perhaps since he was the first to play it, it chose him.” Joxter suggested.

________________________

“Oh Snufkin~” Joxter called out as he jogged across the bridge.

The Mumrik Looked over at the older man from where he was roasting his dinner above his campfire. “Yes Joxter?”

“Why don’t you play this for me?” Joxter said, holding the flute out. “The Moomins keep telling me you're playing is truly something special!”

Snufkin frowned and looked down at his fish. “‘S nothing really. I’m sure you’d probably be able to play it. Have you given it a go?”

“Yes actually, but they say it's not quite the spectacle! That Moomintroll friend of yours says you glow all over and can make plants grow! Now, that sounds quite far-fetched to me, but I suppose I can believe it when I see it!”

Snufkin looked up at him again, “I would suggest you’d take Moomin’s word for it, because I am not playing that again.”

“Why not?” Joxter asked. “It's such a lovely thing to make plants grow. What would be so bad about playing this?”

“Leave me alone.” Snufkin said picking up his fish and setting them down on a plate to cool.

“Oh come on, it’s not that bad. Those Tulips looked quite splendid, if you did grow them, that is.” Joxter said stepping forward.

“I said no.” Snufkin said and angrily poured a bucket of water onto the fire in front of him.

Perhaps he had pushed too far, “Snufkin-“

“-LEAVE ME BE JOXTER!” Snufkin shouted as he grabbed his fish and zipped himself into his tent.

The Joxter sighed, what was so bad about the flute? He looked down at it. Perhaps, because it was stolen from the forest guardian?

He walked to the bridge and leaned against the fence. Or perhaps, Snufkin was freaked out about the aspect of carrying around a magical instrument everywhere he went. It would definitely catch eyes. 

Joxter closed his eyes and remembered his dream of the tree...flowers growing...he remembered the tune from his dream vaguely and tried to whistle it. As if it had a mind of its own the flute began to glow. Joxter looked from it to Snufkin's campsite. It had to be.

“Snufkin, I know you said to leave you alone.” He said sitting outside the tent. “But...I have to tell you the truth of why I am here.” There was no response, but Joxter continued.

“I had a dream a while ago about my childhood home...it was this amazing fruit tree that every one of the Joxters cherished. Except one day...I awoke a slumbering dragon.”

Joxter heard a bit of shuffling and hoped the other was listening.

“The dragon had been sleeping in a nearby cave for quite some time. It had a nasty attitude toward most smaller creatures and especially hated when it was awoken from naps from said smaller creatures. I was one of those creatures who made this mistake… one of my brothers dared me to step inside the cave and when I did, I felt braver than I had ever felt before. To mess with them, I continued going in further, and further. I got a little too cocky I suppose and somehow along the way we woke the dragon.

Scared out of our pants we ran home faster than we had ever run before, but the dragon followed us back with little effort...and blew a plume of fire into our tree...burning it to the ground.”

He had trouble choking out the last bit, feeling his eyes grow heavy with tears. 

“Though I regret many things I’ve done in my past, that is one of the worst mistakes I have made. However, my dream showed me more than just this memory ...it showed my family fruit tree coming back from the Earth anew and I believe perhaps this flute’s magic could save it.”

The tent opened up and Snufkin's tired eyes met his. “This tree...it meant everything to you?”

“It meant everything to my family.” Joxter said, “I just want to be able to fix what I had messed up.”

Snufkin was silent before reaching his hand out, “here, let me play it.”

“Really?”

“Yeah.”

Joxter watched in awe as Snufkin played the flute, his hair glowed and the plants around them grew just as the Moomins had described.

Once Snufkin was done Joxter was surprised when he was handed back the flute, “so will you help me?”

“I’ll think about it…” Snufkin answered, which was probably the closest to an answer The Joxter would get out of the young Mumrik, at the moment.

“Thank you.” Joxter said holding the flute close to himself, “for listening, I mean. I’ll be in Moominhouse if you come up with a decision.” 

Snufkin nodded and zipped his tent back up, “goodnight Joxter.”

“Goodnight Snufkin.”

Chapter Text

“Hello Snorkmaiden,” Moomintroll greeted as she entered his room. She came over to his side quickly examining his injury.

“Oh Moomin you're ankle! Will it be better soon?”

“I was told about a month...though I’ll probably be able to maneuver a bit more in a week or two.” He explained, she sulked a little, but then Snorkmaiden pulled a flower from behind her ear and placed it on his.

“Hopefully this pretty flower I found will help you heal faster.” She said, “So I heard from Little My that you were attacked by a bear? How did you get away?”

Moomin told her the whole story and she smiled with glee at the end.

“So Snufkin can play the flute?”

“Well...yes and no… he refuses to play it, but I’d rather not push him into it.”

“But Moomin!” She whined and held out something. A paper? Moomin squinted and realized it was the music notes they had deciphered.

“He’s the only one that can play it to its full potential! You have to talk him into playing it again!”

Moomin didn’t want to push his friend into anything, but Snorkmaiden did have a point. Though…

“Joxter was able to play it a little as well. Perhaps he could play that?”

“Did he glow?”

“Well no-“

“Plants grow?”

“No…”

She looked at him skeptically for a moment and sighed, “We can give it a shot I suppose.”

“What's worth a shot?” Snufkin asked from the doorway. 

“Snufkin!” Moomin greeted happily.

“Hello Moomin, Snorkmaiden.” He greeted tipping his hat to each of them.

“Well, I better be going. I have some errands to run.” Snorkmaiden said leaving quickly.

Snufkin watched her leave and then turned to him, “I see she brought you a gift.” Snufkin noticed, walking forward and poking the flower by his ear. 

“Yeah, she said she hoped it would make my sprained ankle heal quicker.” Moomin said and laughed a little.

Snufkin nodded and sat at the edge of his bed. Moomin couldn’t help but notice the tired look in his eyes.

“Are you ok Snuf?”

“Yeah I’m alright Moomin.” 

“Are you sure?” Moomin asked. He wanted to comfort Snufkin, to reach out and hold his hand, and perhaps brush his fingers along the knuckles of the others paw, but he knew Snufkin didn’t like physical contact. Even after Snufkin almost left earlier that week and their conversation in the forest Moomin still felt awkward. 

“No.” Snufkin said. “Can...can I lie here for a bit? I haven’t had a wink of sleep.”

“Sure Snuf.” Moomin said and scooted over allowing his friend room enough to fit. Snufkin took off his hat and boots. Then he laid down on top of the covers and closed his eyes, letting out a heavy sigh. Something had to have been bothering Snufkin to keep him up all night. Perhaps the mumrik needed an outlet, perhaps that is why he came to Moomin, if anything it wouldn’t hurt to ask.

“Do...you want to talk about it?” 

“Perhaps in a bit.” Snufkin mumbled.

Moomin smiled and closed his eyes as well. “Ok.” 

As he lay in his room, the only sounds he could hear were the clinks of pots and pans from the lower levels and the pur that rippled from Snufkin in his sleep. Moomin peaked open an eye and reached his hand out slowly and placed a paw onto Snufkin's head and petted his hair. The purr grew five times louder and Snufkin buried himself into Moomins' side.

Moomin smiled and closed his eyes once more letting himself drift into a comfortable sleep.

_________________

“Mr Joxter?” Snorkmaiden asked, stepping outside the Moomin House. He was sitting out on the veranda with a guitar on his lap and the flute tucked into the open guitar case.

“Hm? Ah, you're one of Moomintroll’s friends, yes?” He asked, turning to face her. Suddenly, Snorkmaiden was a little thrown off. For a second,  it was almost like she was seeing an older version of Snufkin, but Snufkin wasn’t a Joxter, he was Mumrik. 

She placed a hand on her cheek, “oh my-I mean yes, I am Moomins friend.”

“Do you need anything?” He asked.

“Oh yes!” She said, “I have a single request to ask of you.”

“Oh?” He looked at the paper she held, “is this it?”

She nodded and he gestured for her to come sit, so she walked over and sat on the step next to him. 

“Let me have a look.” He said and took the paper from her hands. “This is for the flute?”

“Yes it seems so.”

He picked the flute up from the guitar case and began to practice the fingerings.

“Huh...this is strange.” The Joxter mumbled and he began to whistle the notes. The flute in return began to glow.

Snorkmaiden jumped in surprise. “I thought he said you couldn’t make the flute glow?”

“I think I know what this tune is. It's kind of like a spell of sorts for the flute.”

“A spell? Like a magic spell?” Snorkmaiden asked, leaning over to look at the paper again.

The Joxter nodded and began to play the flute, in response to the tune the flowers and plants around them grew. Joxter glowed in the golden light that Snorkmaiden had heard about, but instead of a ginger color his hair turned brown. Once he stopped playing, he smiled. 

“I think this song enhances the magical ability of the user.”

“If you can’t make the flute’s magic work without this song, but Snufkin can, what do you think this will do when Snufkin plays it?”

The Joxter grinned, “I don’t know, but this is all quite exciting!”

___________________

Little My didn’t know what she was expecting when she went to check on Moomin, but him and Snufkin cuddling wasn’t it.

“Snuf.” She said patting his face. 

The other swatted at her away and grumbled angrily.

“Come on, get up.” She said and pulled at his arm. “ Moominmamma will be up here soon with some leftover soup for Moomin .” She said emphasizing their names so he’d get the picture.

He shot up at the mention of Moomin. “Oh boy...I was really out of it.” Little My placed her hands on her hips and grinned up at him.

“What were you doing all cuddled up with Moomin like that?” She asked.

“I suppose I must have drifted off when I came to talk to him this morning.” Snufkin explained whilst putting on his hat.

“Uh huh.” Little My folded her arms with a knowing smile. “So what did you come to talk about?” At this question Snufkin rubbed his head sheepishly.

“I didn’t really get to talk to him about it actually...I fell asleep before I could.”

Little My looked at the sleeping Moomin and then back at Snufkin. “Would you like to practice on me first?”

Snufkin looked at her confused, “I...guess I could tell you as well...but lets leave the room so we don’t wake him.”

Little My nodded motioning to the door, “let’s go then!”

______________________

Once they had made it to the bridge Little My hopped up onto the fence. 

“Ok. Now, just what were you going to tell Moomin.”

Snufkin took a deep breath. “It seems the change I had been worried about was in fact Joxter all along. He wants me to help him revive a tree...though the journey will be long and I am unsure if I will return from it for a long while or at all-“

“-woah!” Little My said waving her arms. “You think you’ll die?!”

Snufkin pulled his hat over his face, “there is a slight possibility of that happening.”

Little My stood up on the fence so she was eye level with him and pulled his hat from his face. “Please. Elaborate.” She said, looking him in the eyes.

“I...had a dream a while back and in the dream I was playing a golden flute...much like the one you all found.” Snufkin explained.

“Is that why you were so freaked out by it?”

“Well...not only because it was in my dream…but because in my dream I brought a tree back to life and the tree consumed me.”

“-consumed? How?”

“It began to wrap around me and not even Moomin was able to save me…”

“So what does this have to do with Joxter?”

“Apparently he has had a similar dream where an unknown person played a song and grew back a fruit tree. This fruit tree was his families tree that had burnt down. He thinks I am the person his dream sent him to find.”

Little My dropped his hat and turned away, sitting down once more. “So...why didn’t you tell us about this dream?”

“I didn’t think much of it until very recently, with the flute showing up and Joxter coming to talk to me about his dream last night.”

“Is that why you were tired?” Little My asked, “because you were up all night worrying about this?”

“Well...I also consulted the cards.”

“What did the cards say?” 

“That…. I should go.”

Little My sighed, “do what you think is right Snufkin. I only hope that your dream was wrong about you...dying… To think! I thought you were going to confess to Moomin!”

“Confess? Confess what?” Snufkin asked, clearly confused.

Little My laughed, “don’t act like you don’t know what I am talking about. It’s obvious you like him.”

“I am not confirming or denying that...but If I were to have feelings for him it wouldn’t matter. Moomin is dating Snorkmaiden.”

Little My began to laugh, “oh! That's rich!” She said, pretending to wipe a tear away, but when she noticed him not laughing and froze, “Oh...Oh-you're not kidding? Uh...that's awkward.”

“What?”

“Him and Snorkmaiden were pretending to date.”

“Pretending? But- they kissed several times!” Snufkin exclaimed.

“Ok, you do have a point, and I was confused at first as well, but apparently they considered those pretend as well. Snorkmaiden was just really into playing Princess and knight when they were younger. She’s grown out of that now.”

Snufkin leaned against the fence, “I had no idea.”

“Snuf, he likes you a lot, you know?”

“I know he likes me… though I thought it was a best friend kind of like.” Snufkin said, closing his eyes. “I just didn’t want to get in the way of him and Snorkmaiden. Apparently that was all for nothing though.”

“Yeah you don’t have an excuse now so I suggest telling him soon.”

“Well...I suppose if I live this journey I might.” Snufkin said.

Little My smacked his shoulder, “you aren’t seriously going to go through with that? And before confessing? Not forgetting that you might die? I might do the same if you two numbskulls keep dodging around your feelings!”

“I’m not dodging, I’d just rather not confess before I leave...besides I feel fate wants me to do things this way.”

“But-“

“Trust me My.”

Little My grabbed his sleeve and locked eyes with him. “Before you go on this Journey with the Joxter. I suggest you play a song with him. You can learn a lot about someone through a song I’ve heard.”

Before Snufkin could ask her what she meant Little My had already jumped down and ran off towards Moominhouse. 

A song huh?

Chapter Text

Snufkin found Joxter playing guitar under the Veranda of the Moomin House. What he had heard from the others was true about Joxter’s musical skill. He anticipated he’d be a great partner for a duet. 

“Good afternoon Joxter.” Snufkin greeted the other as he approached. Joxter, sat on the steps, looked up and a wide grin replaced his previous concentrated frown. 

“Afternoon Snufkin, it is quite a good one I suppose! Though I think it might rain soon. Still nice though.”  

“I wanted to ask you something.” Snufkin said, his hand gripping the harmonica in his pocket.

Joxter cocked his head to the side, “hm? Whatever do you need?”

“I think before I make my decision we should play a song together.” Snufkin said, pulling his harmonica out of his pocket. “You up for a duet?”

“Harmonia huh? Ok, sure!” Joxter said, sitting up straighter. “I suppose you can begin!”

Snufkin nodded and as soon as the cold metal of his harmonica met his lips he began to play. The melody he chose to play was one of the songs he had heard while traveling. 

Joxter nodded along for a bit before jumping in with his guitar. The duet was simply put, serene. Any noise that had been buzzing around seemed to stop as the duet continued along. 

At the end of the song Snufkin made sure to slow down at the final notes to let the Joxter know they were wrapping up. Joxter sighed after his final cord was strung.

“Splendid.” He said, turning to Snufkin. “That was absolutely splendid! Say Snufkin, may I have a look at that Harmonica of yours?”

Of course Snufkin didn’t have any reason not to let Joxter have a look, so he handed it over.

_____________________

The Joxter chuckled, pulling it over and looking down at it, he glided his thumb against the metal surface and stiffened. 

There was no way...it had to be a different one ...but HIS was specially made… He avoided looking at Snufkin as he examined the wood texturing. It had a couple more dents and scraps to it...but it had to be.

“Did you steal this?” Joxter asked after a second. It had to have been stolen from the Mymble. There was no other explanation...unless she pawned it off, although she might as well have. “Or buy it from someone?”

Snufkin looked at him with scrunched eyebrows. “No...I’ve had that harmonica for as long as I can remember.”

What? How? “How far back?”

“Apparently the orphanage owner was given it along with me.” Snufkin explained. “I’ve been playing it for as long as I can remember.”

Orphanage...Mumrik...vagabond...harmonica...it all clicked. 

Joxter couldn’t move, couldn’t bring himself to look the other in the eye.

“Joxter?” Snufkin asked, “are you alright?”

Joxter flinched in surprise, he could feel the dampness of tears on his cheeks.

“I….Snufkin...I’m so sorry.”

“What do you mean?” Snufkin asked.

“You didn’t deserve what happened.” He said, handing back the harmonica. “I owe you so much.”

“Owe me? Joxter, you don’t owe me anything, please tell me what you are talking about.” Snufkin asked and moved so that he was in front of The Joxter.

“Snufkin, that is my old Harmonica, specially made...and I left it with my Mymble...“

Snufkin's eyes widened, “Joxter are you-“

“-that playing was quite lovely!” Moominmamma said as she and Moominpappa stepped onto the porch. 

“Oh! The melody was just wonderful! Are you quite sure you don’t wish to start a band Joxter-“

Moominmamma patted his shoulder and Moominpappa realized the scene they had just walked into. 

“Um...We are sorry to be interrupting.” Moominmamma apologized. “If you two would like to be alone-“

“-No...uh no thank you.” Snufkin said. “I was just stopping by to talk to Moomin.”

Joxter opened his mouth to say something, but closed it again as Snufkin quickly walked past them into the house.

Moominpappa looked back and forth and eventually turned back to focus on Joxter. “What...exactly happened here my friend?”

___________________

Ever since Snufkin had disappeared from beside him earlier that day Moomin had taken to reading in wait for his friend to return. Moomintroll wondered what Snufkin wanted to talk about. He remembered how Snufkin purred and snuggled into his side as he slept. It was quite nice being so close again...he sort of wished he didn’t drift off to sleep so soon. Perhaps he could have played with Snufkin's hair more-- no, what was he thinking? Could that have been the reason Snufkin was gone when Moomin woke up? Oh...he hoped he didn’t make him uncomfortable- He jolted at the sudden thumping of feet climbing up the stairs.

Moomin could only watch in silent shock as Snufkin ran into his room like a madman, slamming the door behind him in the process.

The Mumrik was breathing heavily and staring at the closed door as he backed up to Moomin’s bed.

“What's wrong Snuf?” He asked in a hushed voice. Snufkin looked at him with a fear in his eyes Moomin had never known of Snufkin to express. 

He...would probably have to choose his words carefully.

“I don’t know what's happening Snuf, but I’m here for you.” Moomin then opened his arms inviting his friend in for an embrace.

Then the dam broke. 

Snufkin lunged onto Moomin, whose arms wrapped around him as soon as the other made contact. Woah. Something awful must have happened. 

“Shhh...it's alright.” He whispered, “do...you want to talk about it?”

Moomins ears twitched as Snufkin sniffled. “I-I apologize if I got any snot...on your fur-“

“It's fine, Snufkin, I am more worried about what happened.”

“I-“ Snufkin paused and leaned back, Moomin registered at that moment that Snufkin was practically sitting in his lap. However, he pushed those unwanted thoughts to the back of his mind . This was a serious matter after all, not a time for his feelings to get the better of him. 

“I played a duet with The Joxter and…”

What did a duet have to do with him crying?

“He wanted a closer look at my harmonica and...he said it used to be his.”

“What? How is that? Did he pawn it or something?” Moomin asked. “Wait-Did he take it from you-?”

Snufkin shook his head, “no he didn’t- he said he left it with his Mymble…I was given to the orphanage with this harmonica, it was my only possession growing up.”

Moomins eyes widened, was Snufkin telling him that Joxter was … “is he your Pappa?

Snufkin groaned and buried his face back into Moomins shoulder. “I don’t know what to call him- if he really is my…parent…”

Moomin felt like he was just as stumped as Snufkin was. Perhaps there were some obvious similarities between Snufkin and Joxter. They looked similar, both had tails- although Snufkins was shorter. They both had a love for music, travel and a hate of law enforcement. 

“I suppose this is the change.” Snufkin mumbled against Moomins fur. “I was not prepared.”

“I think you should talk to him.” Moomin said.

Snufkin shook his head, “I don’t think I should now...but perhaps when I have collected... my thoughts… you're really warm .” Snufkin was purring again. A telltale sign he was comfortable, relaxed, and quite possibly was falling asleep. Moomin chuckled, leaning back into his pillow. Snufkin stretched and then curled into his side with a yawn. The second nap of the day. 

Moomin tried his best to stay awake as long as he could to appreciate Snufkin's presence, but the warmth and purring quickly lulled him into a deep slumber.

___________________

Rain dripped down drop by drop at first, but soon began to pour in sheets.

The others had long moved their conversation inside as a chill wind was wafting. Unbeknownst to anyone a silhouetted creature saunters towards the home.

Chapter Text

Tap, tap, tap.

What was that? Moomin thought.

Tap, tap, tap.

There it was again! He opened his eyes to find his room pitch black. He could hear rain pouring down outside and booms of thunder. A flash of lightning lit up his room and he noticed two beady black eyes staring back at him from outside his window. As soon as the following thunder cracked Moomin sat up quickly.

IT WAS A BEAR .

“Moomin? What's wrong?” Snufkin asked sleepily,

Moomin pointed towards the bear in his window shakily and Snufin bristled, worming his way closer to Moomin. 

“What should we do?” Moomin asked.

“I don’t know, I thought the bear disappeared.” Snufkin replied.

“It did...after you played the flute.”

“You have the flute?” A voice asked from seemingly nowhere. 

“ Who is there?” Snufkin asked. 

“Are you the bear?” Moomin asked.

“I am using the bear as a vessel.” The voice said, “ I don’t show my form to mortals.”

“Are you the Spirit of the forest?” Snufkin asked.

“Yes, my name is Mielikki.” The spirit answered, “ I am the forest Spirit of hunting, healing… I am also the original owner of the flute you possess.”

“Well, I don’t ‘possess’ it at the moment.” Snufkin said, sitting up a little, “But why should I hand it over? You attacked my friend...he sprained his ankle because of you...maybe I should be asking why you attacked them.”

“That was one of my friends I had sent to track down the flute. However, when I heard you play I quickly realized you weren’t the original thief so I called her back.... Snufkin, I can sense you are very close with nature.” Mielikki noted, “ ...It was you who played it in the forest, yes?”

Snufkin nodded, “I did.”

“I’m confused.” Moomin said, “we figured it had to do with our connection to nature, but how is it measured?”

“ The way the flute plays differs depending on how the player views nature.” Mielikki confirmed, “for instance, the person who stole the flute couldn’t play the flute at all because they would rather disturb nature in bad ways for their own gain.”

Then why didn’t it work for me? Moomin wondered.

“ I’ll get the flute for you, if you promise to heal Moomins ankle.” Snufkin said, shaking Moomin from his thoughts.

“Snufkin! This is the Spirit of the forest we should just give-“

“Very well, Snufkin.” The spirit agreed, the bear outside the window nodded. 

Snufkin smiled, “thank you.”  He tipped his hat towards Moomin and opened the door of the room slowly and slipped out.

Once the door clicked shut Moomin realized he should ask the question that's been burning in his mind. 

He stared out at the window and felt awkward as he stared straight at a bear.

“...Why can't I play the flute?” He asked, “everytime I tried I would only see Snufkin leaving.”

“ You associate nature with Snufkins leaving every year.” The forest spirit explained, “ You think of it as something that takes and not something that gives.”

Moomin had no idea what that meant, but it cleared some bits up. 

“ When you think of the forest in the winter...what do you think?”

“Cold, lonely.” Moomin said. 

“ Oh, but it isn’t. There are plenty of beautiful things in the winter as well Moomintroll. You’ve just got to look at it in a different light.”

“I will try my best...but I wanted to assure you that I could never blame Snufkin for his way of living,“ Moomin said, “it’s one of the things I appreciate about him...how free he is. I sometimes feel...stuck without him...but,” Moomin knew he was too dependent on others. He could point out millions of times he set out to do something alone and ended up trusting in others to get him through it. He remembered Snorkmaiden’s comment from the other day about him and Snufkin being glued at the hip...perhaps she was right. Snufkin was a vagabond, a wanderer, a mumrik and a Joxter. Snufkin was happiest when he was alone. It was in his blood.

If Moomin thought about it like that, it would seem he was getting in the way of Snufkin's happiness. However, Snufkin never once complained about his presence and by the Goke! If Snufkin didn’t like being around Moomin, he would have never returned after their first encounter. 

Ever since then Snufkin has returned, year after year.

Each year Moomin had only grown more and more fond and he couldn’t help but wonder if Snufkin felt the same. He really hoped he did. One thing he knew for sure though was...

“... as long as Snufkin comes back in the Spring time...I think I am fine with how things are. He is always worth the wait.”

________________________

Snufkin tiptoed down the stairs to the second level. Upon reaching it he could hear the muffled snoring of Moominpappa.

The guest bedroom was close by, and the light was off, but the door was closed. He stepped closer and pressed his ear to the door. No noise. Perhaps the Joxter moved outside to sleep? He hadn’t a clue.

Snufkin turned the handle and peered into the room, it was dark, but thankfully he was able to see in almost pitch black...which explains a lot if he IS related to the Joxter.

Surprisingly, the room was empty, aside from the guitar case that laid on the bed. Perhaps Joxter had left for a walk. Snufkin moved quickly, he couldn’t take any chances of being spotted.

He opened the guitar case and the guitar itself was quite a beauty. He always wanted to try the guitar someday, however the flute was the most important thing at the moment …

 It wasn’t there. 

“Looking for this?” Joxter asked from behind him holding the flute out.

Snufkin jumped and fell back into the bed. “J-Joxter- uh, fancy meeting you here!”

“This is my room Snufkin...I should be asking the same question, but I won’t.” He walked over and sat next to Snufkin.

“How did you know I was going to-?”

“It's not important, I suppose now that you're here we can talk about what happened earlier.”

“About what happened? Oh, you mean...the harmonica.” Snufkin put his hand into the pocket and felt the metal surface of his possession.

“Yes...I left it with my dear Mymble when I set her free.” Joxter explained, “you see...She wanted a large family with me and I couldn’t provide for that. We tried to have children many times, but never succeeded, or so I thought.”

Snufkin gripped his harmonica. So why did they abandon him?

“After I left she gave birth to a kit. I had no idea about them until now, seventeen years later.” Joxter said, turning to him, “Snufkin, if I had known, I would have been there, I would have been the best father I could be...but I failed you.” He gripped the flute bringing it to his face. “Mymble couldn’t handle raising you without me and gave you up… I…”

Snufkin loosened his grip on his harmonica and placed a hand on Joxter's shoulder. 

If he didn’t know...then…

“You don’t hate me?” Snufkin asked in a whisper.

The Joxter looked at him quickly, “hate you? Snufkin-you're my son! Why would I hate you?”

“I…” Snufkin looked away, “I was made fun of as a child for being the only Mumrik with a tail.” He explained.

The Joxter began to smile but covered his mouth. “Sorry-sorry it's not funny. You have a tail? Can I see?” 

Snufkin blushed, “uh...maybe another time...I have to hurry.” 

“Let me guess you need the flute, are you taking me up on my offer? Or are you hiding it away?”

“The forest spirit came to collect it.” Snufkin explained.

Joxters' expression fell a little, “I suppose...this is what needs to be done then.” He said, handing the flute to Snufkin.

Snufkin sighed, he felt bad, but this had to be done. So he stood up from the bed and began his way to the door.

“By the way, Snufkin, I hope...I can be a better father for you. You know? In the future...I know I missed out on a lot, but I want to make up for it.”

Snufkin was glad his back was turned. He didn’t want Joxter to see him crying.

“Yeah...maybe we can go fishing tomorrow.” Snufkin suggested before he left.

________________________

The door to Moomintrolls room creaked as it opened. Snufkin looked over at Moomin with a smile and then closed the door behind him. He looked over to the window where the bear sat and held the flute out.

“I have the flute, please heal Moomintroll like we promised.”

“Ok, bring him over and open the window.” Mielikki asked. 

Moomin sat up and shifted so the blanket was off him. His bandaged ankle stung as he swung his legs over the side. Snufkin helped him stand and they made their way over.

Moomin and Snufkin pulled away the vines that intertwined with the lock and he and Snufkin were met with a brisk, wet wind from outside.

The bear leaned forward with glowing eyes. Moomin felt slightly fearful, but Snufkin’s grip on his hand helped him stay confident. One claw extended, the bear touched Moomin’s ankle. It stung for only a moment before any pain he was feeling was suddenly gone. 

Moomintroll smiled, he put his weight on his foot and jumped up and down. 

“Snufkin!” He turned to face Snufkin, paw in paw. “It doesn’t hurt!”

Snufkin smiled, “That's good.”

“The flute now.” Mielikki asked, the bear opened its mouth and leaned forwards.

“Is it ok if I ask you a question first?” Snufkin asked.

“If you wish.”  

“Do you know of a large fruit tree that was long burned down by a dragon?” Moomin looked at him in confusion, a fruit tree? A dragon? This was the first he was ever hearing of this story.

The spirit was quiet as it thought, “the story you speak of sounds familiar, but it is not of a forest in my domain...perhaps in my husbands. Do you seek to restore this tree?”

Snufkin nodded, “The Jox- my... father lived in the tree as a child. He wanted my help in restoring it.” Moomin was even more confused now. When had Joxter asked Snufkin about this?

“You wish to help your father restore the tree… perhaps I can bring a seed of the tree to you.”

Snufkin smiled, placing the flute into the bear's mouth, “what should I do for you in return?”

“Write me a song.” The spirit suggested, “I love your music.” Snufkin nodded, “sure.”

“ I’d best be off then.” Mielikki waved and began her descent down the ladder.

“See you again soon!” Snufkin called waving.

Once the spirit was gone Moomin cleared his throat awkwardly. “So you were planning to go off on a journey with Joxter?”

Snufkin frowned, “Yes, he told me of his home and I wanted to help. It seemed to be the only way to fix things. I was going to tell you, Moomin.”

Moomintroll nodded, “it's ok! I am kind of excited to see what this tree looks like if Mielikki finds it.”

“Me as well.” Snufkin closed the window and yawned. “I’m really tired.” 

“I feel oddly energized, funny enough.” Moomin said with a chuckle.

“Is it ok if I sleep over?” Snufkin asked, “I’m far too tired to make it all the way to my camp in this rain.”

“If you’d like.” 

The two boys crawled back into Moomintrolls bed and as the rain continued to fall again, they both drifted off to sleep.

Chapter Text

A knock on his bedroom door woke Moomin with a start. He yawned, opening his eyes and stretching, he looked over at the side of his bed where Snufkin was pulling on his coat.

“Snufkin?” Moomin asked groggily as he rubbed his eyes. 

“Good Morning Moomin.” He said, smiling and smoothing out the fabric of his coat. He turned and grabbed his hat. 

“Hey, Snuf-”

The door of the room opened and Moominmamma peaked her head inside, “Moomin how are you feeling--Oh, hello Snufkin!”

“Hello Moominmamma,” He greeted, tilting his hat towards her. He walked towards the door and Moominmamma opened it the rest of the way so he could pass through. 

“What a wonderful surprise, would you be interested in joining us for breakfast?” Moominmamma asked.

Snufkin smiled and nodded, “Of course, though I need to check something really quickly first.”

“Alright, see you then.”Moominmamma said, watching him retreat down the stairwell, then she turned back to Moomin.

Moomin sat up as she walked over. Moominmamma was there to check in on him, but he didn’t need any help now that his ankle was healed. He pushed the blanket off of him and stood from his bed.

“Moomin! You're standing!” She said in shock.

“Yep!” He said, shaking his foot around, “The spirit of the forest healed it in exchange for her flute!”

“Oh gracious! I thought I’d have to bake another pie for the witches…Do you suppose spirits enjoy pie as well?” Moomin shrugged in response and she laughed happily, “well, since you are up would you like to help me with breakfast?”

“Sure!” Moomin agreed, following after her..

He felt refreshed and very energized. All he wanted to do was go outside and run around--or maybe he and Snufkin could finally fly their kites together! 

—————————————-

Snufkin breathed a sigh of relief when he made it to his campsite. Another eventful couple days. He yawned again. Why was he so tired?

“You’re up early.” Little My said from behind.

Snufkin froze and slowly turned to her, “I could say the same for you.”

“I am just an early bird I’ll have you know!” She said confidently, “But don’t go turning my words on me, I just saw you coming from Moominhouse. Why were you over there so early? Did you finally confess to Moomin?”

Snufkin shook his head, “no… I haven’t---but why would you assume that! I’ve spent nights there before, also I told you I wasn’t going to confess till--” Oh wait he didn’t have that excuse anymore did he? He could feel his face heat up in embarrassment and tugged down on his hat. “--J-just, let it go ok? I haven’t said anything yet.” 

Little My did just that. She walked over and sat quietly by Snufkin’s unlit fire pit.

“Looks like you can’t burn these logs, they're soaked.” She said poking them.

“I keep backup.” Snufkin said, opening his tent. “Though I won’t need them this morning.”

“Oh is this one of your forebodings?” Little My asked.

“I don’t think that's how it works-“ Snufkin stopped and turned to face the small Mymble.

The only person to ever call them “forebodings” was Joxter. He had mentioned his hunches to her, but never called them that. As a matter of fact she was the one who suggested he and Joxter play a song together. 

“How did you know?” He asked, squinting at her suspiciously. 

“Know what? You're forebodings? Cause you told me yesterday on the bridge.”

“No, that I was Joxters son.”

Little My looked at him and smiled, “oh, that’s easy. You look like him, you have weird “forebodings” or visions like him… and you have his harmonica. I recognized it the first time I saw it.”

Snufkin wanted to grab the nearest stick and beat her with it, but he refrained because Moomintroll wouldn’t like it.

“You're lucky Moomin likes you.” Snufkin said, zipping up his tent. “You couldn’t have told me? That you were my sister this whole time? Or that Mym was my sister? Or that the Mymble was my mother?”

“To be honest I thought you knew for the longest time, but I guess it makes sense you didn’t. Sorry.”

Snufkin sat across from Little My. At first he just stared at the damp logs, but soon he looked up locking eyes with Little My.

“So…” he started, “...what is living with our Mom like?”

Little My crossed her arms, “you wouldn’t have liked it.”

“Probably more than the orphanage.”

Her eyes widened, “have you met our siblings?”

“Once, when Moomin built that house…” Snufkin drew away from his sentence remembering as Moomintroll and friends built the ugliest shack he had ever seen. It was definitely not structurally sound and it had collapsed only a little while after the Mymble and kids had left. 

“Oh boy was that a mess.” Little My said, her expression horrified as she thought back to it.

Snufkin chuckled, “Well, anyways, I doubt I would have changed fundamentally since I still grew up in a rather crowded home…So maybe you are right about me hating it, but I don’t think I would have minded knowing who I was.”

Little My looked up at him with an evil grin. “Anyways, Snufkin, since you now know I am your older sister, I get to boss you around now.”

“Mm...no.” Snufkin smiled, “as you're taller brother I suggest you don’t.”

“When I get taller I will make you eat those words.”

“I think you meant if you get taller.”

Little My stood up and grabbed the nearest stick.  “You might hold back because of Moomin, but I don’t hold back for anyone!” She said and lunged at him. Even though it sort of stung Snufkin laughed as he fell over and was whacked repeatedly with the branch. 

“My!” A familiar voice called out, “what are you doing to poor Snufkin?”

“Hi Snorkmaiden.” She said dropping the stick. “I was just showing him how to fight.”

“I’m sure he knows how to do that well enough.” Snorkmaiden said whilst helping Snufkin to his feet.

“Thank you.” He said and dusted himself off. 

“My, please apologize for hitting Snufkin.” Snorkmaiden said, and placed her hands on her hips. 

“I told you I was…” Little My stopped and looked back at Snufkin with an evil smile.

“I’m sorry for hitting you little bro.” She said while tossing the stick aside.

Snufkin closed his eyes and sighed.

“...little bro?” Snorkmaiden asked, “is that a sort of slang?”

Little My laughed, “nope! Snufkin is my younger brother!”

Snorkmaiden looked from My to Snufkin and then back. “...younger?”

“I am the oldest in our friend group!” Little My exclaimed, “you know this!”

“Wait-no I thought Snufkin was older than you for some reason. Perhaps it's because he is more mature.”

“You can just say it's because he is taller.” She said with an angry glare.

“I haven’t really told anyone my age so anyone could understand.” Snufkin said.

“He’s around seventeen.” Little My said, crossing her arms. “He is around four years younger than me.” 

“four?” Snorkmaiden asked in astonishment. 

“Why is this so hard to grasp?” Little My asked.

“I’m sorry.” Snorkmaiden said, “I’m just a little bewildered-wait you said that Snufkin and you are related?”

“Yes!”

“How so? Doesn’t Mymble… oh...the Joxter?”

Snufkin nodded, “his only.”

“Oh wow! I thought you two looked alike! No kidding.” She looked at Moominhouse. “I was heading over to check on Moomin. Does he know about this?”

“He does, also his ankle was healed.”

“Did Alicia and her Grandma heal it?” Snorkmaiden asked.

“Wait his ankle was healed?” Little My asked with a confused expression, “How the heck did that happen?”

Snufkin nodded, “in exchange for the flute the spirit of the forest healed him.”

Little My and Snorkmaiden looked at eachother.

“You gave up the flute?” Snorkmaiden asked. “Why would you do that?”

“It wasn’t mine to begin with, it was Mielikki’s.” Snufkin explained, “besides Moomintroll is much more important than a silly old flute.”

The two girls looked at each other again, this time exchanging knowing smiles. Little My patted his arm, “careful Snufkin your feelings are showing.”

“Well...I have no need to hide them from you anymore do I?”

“Oh—Snufkin! Are you finally going to confess?” Snorkmaiden asked excitedly. “Or have I missed something else?” He had never pictured Snorkmaiden as being supportive of his feelings, but it was quite refreshing to know she was.

“Soon I think.” Snufkin promised, “I will have to find a good time to do so.” Snorkmaiden squealed in excitement. “Oh the Prince and the Knight will find love at last!” Snufkin was sure Little My told him Snorkmaiden grew out of her Princess and Knight schtick. He looked at the small Mymble with a raised eyebrow, however she wasn’t looking towards him.

Instead Little My was looking towards the bridge that Moomin was crossing.

“Speaking of,” She said to them.

“Hey guys, I saw you all talking out here and thought I’d extend an invitation!” He said as he approached. 

“Hi Moomin, lovely weather isn’t it?” Snorkmaiden greeted.

“Perfect weather.” Moomin said whilst catching his breath, “Moominmamma is cooking up a big breakfast, so you all can join us if you’d like.”

“What does Moominmamma have cooking?” Little My interrupted.

“Me and Moominmamma are cooking up some pumpkin pancakes, but there will also be jam and toast and juice!” Moomin explained. “I have to hurry back now to help some more, but I wanted to make sure you were coming.” He said, meeting Snufkin's eyes. 

Snufkin suddenly felt like his breath was knocked out of him. Moomin smiled and turned to the other two. Snufkin felt like he was unable to move, it was as if he was frozen by the groke. He wasn’t cold however, quite the opposite in fact. His face felt so warm he thought he might melt into a puddle. Even the cold morning air couldn’t cool him off.  

Snufkin had woken that morning to Moomins arms wrapped tightly around him and his own face buried into the white fur of Moomins chest. If it were anyone else he would have hated being held so close, but…

“Well then! I will see you three in a bit.” Moomin said and faced Snufkin one last time, this time Snufkin could feel a cold shiver run throughout his body.

What was happening? He had never once felt this sort of way, even around Moomin. Perhaps it was the anticipation that he was going to confess soon. He knew he would do it soon…but suddenly it seemed a harder task now that he was in the presence of Moomintroll. C’mon Snufkin don’t lose your cool now. 

As soon as Moomin was gone Snufkin deflated.

“Wow, you were so stiff I thought the breeze was going to blow you over.” Little My said laughing.

Snufkin pouted, “I...don’t know what came over me.”

“Aww, you're in love!” Snorkmaiden said dreamily. “I am so excited for you to confess!”

“How do I confess if I can barely speak?” Snufkin asked, ignoring the smug look from Little My.

“You just have to keep your cool, Snufkin. Act like you usually do.” Little My explained. “Except that you want to do all those couple things like kiss and hold hands.” 

“That is easier said than done.” Snufkin said, and sighed. “I thought it would be easy, but it felt like some sort of spell was cast over me.”

“Well! Unless there is a witch with a vendetta against you, I am sure you will be fine.” Little My said, patting his arm roughly.

He winced and rubbed the spot she hit. 

“Who knows, maybe a witch cursed him on his travels- or some magical creature fell in love with him!” Snorkmaiden suggested.

“No...no...I don’t think it is a witch's fault. It's probably because I’m...nervous.”

“Makes sense, but there is no need to worry. Take it from me, nothing is as freeing as speaking your mind. I speak my mind constantly!” Little My bragged. 

Snorkmaiden nodded, “she is right-“

“Of course I am!”

Snorkmaiden glared at Little My, but continued, “how about you practice on me?” Snufkin looked from her to Little My.

“You want me to practice confessing to Moomin through you?”

“Yes.”

“...and you won’t laugh?” He asked. This is going to be so embarassing. 

“No, no, of course not.” Snorkmaiden promised.

“Only if you mess up!” Little My joked, but with a glare from Snorkmaiden she shook her head, “I won’t really!”

“Ok then…” Snufkin closed his eyes and let out a long shaky breath. “Moomin...I’ve known you for nearly half my life and for that time I have spent most of it in Moominvalley with you. I have grown more and more fond of you through the years and I’ve realized I can’t live another day without showing you the affection I have for you.” He got down on one knee, eyes still closed. “Will you make me the happiest mumrik in Moominvalley and-“

“Woah!” Little My said, flailing her arms, “hold on a second! Is this a confession or a marriage proposal?!”

Snufkin opened his eyes and looked at her in shock. “Mumriks don’t usually marry…”

“Neither do Mymbles usually, but Moomins do. So think about how you are holding yourself,” She said.

“Unless you are going for an eternal bond sort of thing.” Snorkmaiden suggested.

Snufkin felt his face warming up, “ok, ok I will try again.”

He stood up and prepared himself for a redo.

Clearing his throat and his thoughts he closed his eyes.

“Moo-“

“Try keeping your eyes open this time.” Snorkmaiden suggested.

“It  makes it easier to visualize Moomin with them closed,'' he explained.

“Ok, have it your way, but keep them open in the real confession. It would be best to keep eye contact so the other knows your feelings are true.” She explained. He nodded in understanding. 

Ok. Once more.

He breathed and closed his eyes visualizing Moomin in front of him. With another exhale he looked into Moomins eyes. His stomach flipped, but he kept his place, 

As he spoke he became more and more confident. Each word was smoother than the other and he was sure if he would speak them again he could do it perfectly. 

“So...would you perhaps want to go on a date?” He asked about earning claps from Little My and Snorkmaiden.

“Yes!” Snorkmaiden cheered. “Wonderfully said!”

“I think you will do just fine.” Little My agreed.

“Ah. Thank you.” Snufkin said, smiling.

Snorkmaiden shook her head, “no thanks needed. Come now let's go help the Moomins set up breakfast.”

Chapter Text

Joxter, Moominpappa, Moomintroll, Snufkin and Snorkmaiden helped move the dining room table outside so they could enjoy the beautiful spring day. Sniff showed up around the time the food and plates had all been set and everyone took a seat.

Moomintroll tried to save a spot next to him for Snufkin, but Sniff somehow managed to sit next to him instead. He held back his frustration and watched Snufkin go and sit in between the Joxter and Snorkmaiden.

“Moomin I need to talk to you about something I saw earlier.” Sniff whispered as he stacked some pancakes on his plate.

“Uh huh…” Moomin answered and nodded, “sure.”

Sniff scratched his head, “Well, I had woken up bright and early…”

Moomin stared blankly at his food as Sniff started to retell his story from the very beginning of his day.

“Sniff.” He said tiredly, “please get to the point.”

Sniff leaned over and motioned for Moomin to come closer. He leant down and Sniff whispered, “I heard Snufkin confessing his feelings for Snorkmaiden earlier.” He whispered. Then pulled away.

What?

Moomin squinted his eyes and looked at the two across from him, Snufkin said something and made Snorkmaiden laugh, she touched his upper arm gently and leaned into him.

There was no way. 

Yeah …no, yeah! Snufkin couldn’t have feelings for Snorkmaiden. He had never seen them hanging out by themselves-though there were a couple times he had caught Snufkin staring at him and Snorkmaiden when they used to pretend they were in a relationship. His friends stare, he had always kind of hoped it was because Snufkin had secret feelings for him. So if what Sniff said was true…maybe...it wasn’t as far-fetched...

“Moomin?” Sniff asked. “Hey what's wrong? Is it because of Snorkmaiden?” 

He masked his feelings with a smile, “no-no! I am fine.”

The rest of breakfast he zoned out and ate only a small portion of what he usually ate.

He caught himself pushing his food around with his fork several times before he excused himself to take dishes inside.

————————————————

“Mm.. seems like your friend isn’t feeling very good.” Joxter said motion to Moomin going inside.

“He’s fine, he is probably just butt hurt because Sniff took Snufkins spot.” Little My commented as she poured a glob of syrup on her pumpkin pancakes.

Snufkin scratched his head sheepishly, “I did want to sit there...but Sniff was quick to take the spot.”

“Sniff hm?” Joxter said peering over at the mouse like a troll across from him and caught Sniff's attention, “so you’re Muddler and Fuzzy’s son, I can see the resemblance.”

“He’s who's what?” Snorkmaiden and Snufkin asked.

“I’m who’s what?” Sniff asked, turning to them.

Little My sighed, since she apparently was the only one to know anything, she glared at the rest of her friends over her stack of pancakes.

“My best friend, you're his kid.” Joxter explained.

“I have parents?” Sniff asked, seemingly shocked by this new revelation. Joxter's heart hurt as Sniff processed the information. What a cruel fate not to know the Muddler and Fuzzy-“Why didn’t anyone tell me? Where are they? Are they rich?”

Joxter ignored the last comment- the Muddler wasn’t one to care for riches.

“You can blame Moominpappa for that one.” He motioned to Moominpappa who was now looking up from his food at the mention of his name.

Moominmamma sighed, “blame me as well. We should have told you that, well…Moominpappa?”

“They were the first married of our friends.” Moominpappa explained, “they liked to travel, though they quickly found themselves leaving Sniff and Fuddler in dangerous situations or just accidentally leaving them behind in general. It wasn’t because they didn’t love you Sniff...that Muddler was just scatterbrained and he ended up with someone just as scatterbrained as he. They ended up leaving you behind in a forest and apparently weren’t able to find you. I’m sure you remember growing up amongst the critters of the forest for a while?”

“Yeah...I remember meeting Moominmamma and Moomintroll. I don’t remember much of my parents though.” Sniff said, scratching his head. “Wait, who is Fuddler?”

“Oh he is your brother.” Moominmama said, “We only found you and we haven’t been able to contact your parents so we have no idea what has come of him.”

“Oh… Wish I could meet them…” Sniff said his expression saddened. 

“I'm sure they would be happy to know you're safe!” Moominpappa assured, “I’ve been trying to contact them for years...” Moominpappa said the last bit in aggravation. “I even tried getting in touch with Fredrickson...but another dead end. I’ve gathered that he has either moved homes or he has...passed on.”

“Fredrickson?” Sniff asked. “Wait! Muddler and Fuzzy were from that story you told us! So that makes that inventor guy my...Uncle?”

“Your great Uncle.” Joxter corrected. The excitement in Sniff's eyes very much reminded Joxter of his old friend. Muddler… he shifted his hand down to hold a little red button sewn to the lower pocket of his coat. He had received the button as a gift from Muddler at a point in their travels aboard the Oshun Oxtra.

“Hey-uh...Joxter?” A tug on his sleeve pulled Joxter from his memories. He looked over towards Snufkin.

“Yeah?” He asked.

“Do you still want to go fishing today?” Snufkin asked nervously.

Ah, yes- he had almost forgotten they promised to fish this day. “Sure.” He replied with a big smile. 

Snufkin nodded and seemed to relax a bit.

“Well, if everyones done eating I suppose we should start to pack things up.” Moominmamma said, clapping her paws together.

————————————————

Moomin watched from the window of the kitchen as everyone began to stir from the table to put things away. As they approached the Moominhouse he couldn’t help but turn tail and run up the stairs.

It's not that he didn’t want to help, but he didn’t really want to confront Snufkin if what Sniff said was true.

He heard the group come in, laughter echoed through the house and clings and clangs filled the air as things were jostled around in the kitchen. He couldn’t make out what anyone was saying from his room, but he listened all the same.

Eventually stairs started to creek as someone made their way up. Moomintrolls heart raced as they got closer before his door swung open and Sniff jumped in.

“Moomin!” Sniff said excitedly, “you will never guess what I just found out!”

Moomin groaned and turned away from him and pulled a pillow over his head. 

“Moomin-buddy, come on buddy, listen!” Sniff wined.

“If it hasn't anything to do with Snorkmaiden and Snufkin breaking up I don’t want to hear it.”

Sniff whined some more and huffed in aggravation. “No! I found out I have parents!” He said proudly.

Moomin turned and gave him a confused look, “we all have parents Sniff-“

“-No I had parents that lived on the Oshun Oxtra with your Papa!” Sniff explained, “you remember the Muddler and Fuzzy from Moominpappa’s stories?”

Moomin stared at his friend in disbelief, “but we found you in the middle of nowhere-“

“Apparently I got separated from them somehow.” Sniff said, and shrugged, “...and they never came back to find me…”

Moomin felt bad- first Snufkin and now Sniff? Although they were great adventurers, the crew of the Ocean Oxtra were not the most present parents.

Moomin rubbed his forehead trying to get rid of the headache coming on, “I’m happy for you, Sniff. Are you going to try meeting them?”

“Moominpappa said he would do his best to get in touch with them.” Sniff said excitedly.

—————————————————

Snufkin and Joxter had left after Joxter got kicked out of the kitchen. “What again?” Joxter had whined as he was shoved out of the room by Moominpappa. “Keep breaking our fine china and the kitchen won’t be the only place you're banned from.” He warned. Joxter's tail flicked in annoyance as he turned and walked away.

Snufkin followed Joxter and they began their way down to the beach. With them they took Snufkin’s supplies and also Moominpappa’s “borrowed” fishing supplies. “I don’t think he will mind.” Joxter had said while he took the supplies from the Moomin’s storage. Snufkins didn’t know if this was true though, especially since his father has a mischievous grin plastered on his face.

The small boat creaked wearily as the two pushed it further into the water, until they were able to jump in and paddle away from shore.

“Me and Moominpappa used to fish together all the time.” Joxter said as he hooked some bait to his line. “I tried to take Muddler with me sometimes, but Mudds was-if you can believe it, too afraid of water.” Joxter laughed at this, “he kept telling me that it was easier to fall off and drown on a smaller boat.” 

Snufkin laughed with him, “Sniff is the same, we’ve gone on sailing trips and he refuses to come.”

“I suppose the fear of water runs in their family, for good reason.”

“Hm?”

“Muddler’s parents died in a flood.” Joxter said and cast off his line. “My friend was devastated. It was around the time we met, so I never got to meet them.” 

Snufkin’s eyes widened, “Moominpappa mentioned that they got lost in a ‘Spring cleaning’.”

“Suppose...that's what we told him huh… Well...that was in poor taste I suppose.” Joxter said, scratching his stubble.

“Mudds was still sore on the subject when we first met Moomintroll...and the small guy was chopped full of questions. Fredrickson told him that so he’d let Muddler be.”

Snufkins sighed, “that's heavy…”

Joxter nodded and gave Snufkin a smile, “yeah? We can change the subject then…”

Snufkin nodded.

“Do you like anyone?” Joxter asked with a knowing smile.

Snufkin visibly tensed, “-hhwhat? No!”

Joxter laughed and pulled Snufkin's hat down playfully. Snufkins nearly dropped his fishing rod as he swatted the other’s hand away.

“I know those looks you give him aren’t just friendly glances.” Joxter said as he cast his line. He smiled and he looked over at Snufkin.

“You can’t fool an old fool.”

“You...don’t care that he is a boy?” Snufkin asked cautiously.

“If I cared about that I would be a hypocrite.” Joxter ignored the shocked look Snufkin gave him.

“Wait-Jox-Papa? Um-Joxterpapa?”

Joxter looked at his son, “Just Joxter is fine. Now what is it kid?” 

“You’ve been in love with a boy before?” 

“I’ve been in love with several guys before.” Joxter said. The shocked look Snufkin gave him was picture worthy. He chuckled and placed the fish in the basket and started to put more bait in his line. “Several guys, several gals, and several creatures who had no care for gender. Strong feelings come when least expected...is how I understand it.” Joxter smiled and placed a hand on the button he got from Muddler. “I fell in love with a lot of people.” He took a deep breath. “Snufkin, if you love him, you should tell him. Before he moves on without you.” 

“Wait...were you in love with someone on the-'' Snufkin felt his fishing line tug.

“Oh you’ve got one!” Joxter said, patting his shoulder. “Reel him in before it's too late, Snufkin!”

He tugged the line and sure enough a fish came from the water and Joxter caught it eagerly.

“Good catch son!"

Snufkin’s heart swelled at the compliment from his father. 

The remainder of the fishing trip, conversation would come and go, but for the most part they sat in silence enjoying the nice weather.

Muddler and Joxter stood aboard the Oshun Oxtra. The word was that the king wished for Muddler and Fuzzy to be married. “I guess he noticed I liked her a bit.” Muddler said as he leaned against the railing. The crew had been warned by Mymble Jr that the King was enamored with parties and celebrations. Any excuse, be it a birthday, holiday, anniversary, or wedding the King would throw huge parties for the islanders. It became almost exhausting at times how frequent the parties were, so citizens started to keep quiet about anything remotely celebration worthy. The only reason the Muddler and Fuzzy were found out was because they were caught smooching by the King on a stroll.

“You don’t have to get married if you don’t want to.” Joxter reminded him, “the king can’t force you to marry her.”

“I’m not being f-forced, Joxter...I was just surprised, is all… It’s like you always said, uh how did it go? ‘feelings are, they come when least expected’.”

Joxter felt a pang of guiltiness at his envy towards Fuzzy. She was a great friend and she would give Muddler the comfortable life he deserved. “Muddler I-“ He wanted so badly to confess his feelings, but Muddler was to be married. It wouldn’t be right to push his feelings onto the other now and it would also betray Joxter's friendship with Fuzzy- which he cherished greatly.

“At least if this marriage thing doesn’t work out I still have you right??” Muddler asked, chuckling lightly and elbowing his friend. Joxter's heart skipped a beat, even if he knew that Muddler meant it as just friends. 

“Always.” Perhaps he answered that question a little too quickly,

Muddler laughed, “Joxter I know that was a lie. Joxters are meant to travel around. What was the story you told me? About finding a fruit tree or something?”

He pulled a red button from his pocket, “s-so we aren’t ever far apart?”

Joxter rummaged through his pockets and pulled out a pipe. “Ah...this is the only thing I have to trade.” He handed it to Muddler, “promise me you won’t actually smoke this Mudds, it’s not healthy.”

Muddler laughed as he took the pipe “I won’t.” 

The stars were beautiful that night, as the boat rocked gently on the moonlit sea.

Chapter Text

Moomintroll watched the sunset from his window. It would be truly breathtaking, if he didn’t feel so defeated. Earlier that day he had gone to find Snufkin, only to find his friend's campsite empty. Snorkmaiden hadn’t been around the rest of the day as well, he wondered briefly to himself if they were on an outing together. 

Sniff's words bounced around in his head over and over, but he couldn’t wrap his mind around the idea. Was it because he was jealous? He thought of all the time he had spent with Snufkin, he closed his eyes to better imagine it.

A knock rattled his bedroom door, “come in.” He said and watched as Moominmama entered.

“Hello sweetheart.” She said, “I was making some tea and thought you might want some since you weren’t feeling very well.”

“Oh, thank you.” Moomin turned to see her in the doorway holding a tray with a mug. She walked in and set it on his night stand. 

“Are you feeling any better?” Moominmamma asked.

“A bit.” Moomin said and sighed, “Mamma can I get some advice—for a friend...uh, for Sniff.”

“Sure.” She said and sat down on the bed. “What problem does Sniff have?”

“Well…he likes someone...but they are in love with someone else.”

“Ah, I’ve had a friend go through this exact problem.” Moominmamma sighed, placing a hand on her cheek. “He was devastated, and chose me of all people to confide in.” She laughed a little. “He moved on eventually, he just found that you can’t force anyone to feel the same way you do. If you love someone you have to sometimes be prepared for outcomes like that…”

“What happened to your friend?” Moomin asked. “After everything, did he find happiness?”

“Well, soon after he realized his feelings were not reciprocated in the way he wished, someone different came into his life.” Moominmamma said.

“Are you telling me that I -I mean- are you telling Sniff to move on from them?”

“Well, are you certain they really love someone else? Has Sniff talked with them about it?”

Moomin looked away, “I don’t think so.”

“Well, perhaps he should talk to them about his feelings towards them.”

“Wouldn’t it be better to preserve their friendship?” Moomintroll inquired.

“Mm...I think it's always best to have answers. I know I would appreciate it if a friend told me. Even if they didn't feel the same, they would be able to carry on in other pursuits and I would know that they liked me enough as a friend to fall for me. If Sniff is worried they feel any different he could explain that he is alright with staying friends if what he heard was true.”

Moomin nodded slowly, “I think I understand Mama, thank you.”

——————————————————

Snufkin and Joxter parted ways after reaching Snufkin's campsite. It was dark, and fireflies were beginning to glow- though only few were out so early in the season. He started his fire up and began to work on cooking some fish he’d caught.

“Reel him in huh?” Snufkin sighed and looked towards Moominhouse, a dark silhouette against the Moonlit sky. Everyone must have gone to sleep early. He hoped Moomin was feeling well, he felt a little bad about not checking in on him earlier.

“Snufkin.”

The poor mumrik jumped as a cold wind hit him. He looked around, but nothing caught his eye.

“Hello?” He asked, “who’s there?”

“Mielikki.”

Mielikki? Oh- Oh! He scratched his head, “I haven’t had much time to write any songs today-“

“ It’s fine, I will hear the song if you ever play it in the forest. What I have brought you is much more important.”

A bear stepped out of the shadows, this one was a different, smaller bear with light brown fur. 

“You are in luck, my husband had the seed in his care. He wasn’t planning on reviving it, but since you had kindly given back the flute, it is a gift. It will take many years to grow this tree, so I regret to inform you that neither you nor your father will live to see its fruit.”

The bear nudged him and he held out his hand. In his palm, the bear placed the seed; it was beautiful, unlike any seeds he had seen before. He felt a connection of sorts to it- even though the feeling was small.

“Thank you Mielikki.” Snufkin said bowing his head respectfully. 

“One last thing.” The bear held out another gift, which Snufkin cautiously took.

“The flute doesn’t wish to stay with me.” Mielikki explained, “it appears to have grown a strong connection to you-and it won’t let anyone else play it. Oddly enough, not even I can play it.”

Snufkin looked at the flute which gleamed in the moonlight.

“Be warned though, Snufkin, don’t play the flute near the seed… if you do, the tree will grow too quickly and most likely form around and likely suffocate you…. So please be careful.”

Snufkin nodded, “I will, thank you.”

The bear nodded and began to saunter off, “ And don’t forget your promise to write me a song.”

Snufkin nodded, “I won’t forget.” And with that, the spirit of the forest had left.

——————————————

Snufkin had gone to bed quite late, but he was early to rise the next morning. He hid the flute in his tent and wrapped the seed in a small makeshift sack. He tied it shut with a bit of twine and stepped outside his tent; into the cold morning air. He stretched and began his morning routine. With a pot of stew on the fire he sat contently enjoying the brisk morning air.

How would he surprise Joxter? Just hand it to him? That is what he would usually do for most people, but he somehow felt like this was more special than that. Joxter had no clue of what Snufkin had in his possession—and nobody knew he had the flute for that matter. He’d probably keep the flute a secret for a while.

“Snufkin you're up early!” Said....Snorkmaiden?

She ran over to him awfully chipper for how early it was.

“Did you hear? My brother's new flying machine is almost done!” As she said this she happily twirled in place.

Snufkin scratched his head, “News travels slowly I suppose. Is it actually almost done?”

She nodded happily, “He’s invited some of the best inventors around to come for the reveal! 

Apparently even a well renowned inventor may come at some point today!”

Snufkin hummed, “all this sounds a bit showy for a test flight. Is he positive it will work this time?”

Snorkmaiden gave him an annoyed look huffed, “it's a welcomed amount of showiness for his flying ship! He has run every calculation and tested his modeled crafts with ease. We have no doubts this will go off without a hitch.”

Snufkin shrugged, “well, I will do my best to come.” He didn't really understand the reason for showing off for a bunch of strangers. Though he hadn’t really had anything to show off like that before. 

Snorkmaiden looked down at the bag Snufkin was holding. “Hm? What's that?”

“It's...a gift.”

“For Moomin?” She asked.

Snufkin shook his head, “no, it's for Joxter.”

She smiled, “That's so sweet of you! What is it?”

“I want to keep it a surprise…” Snufkin said before realizing how that could be interpreted, “sorry if that sounds like I don’t trust you…I wanted to make this a surprise for everyone at the same time.”

“No! It's fine, Snufkin.” She assured him, “I get it.” She turned her head towards Moominhouse. “Do you want to come with me to see if Moomin is feeling better?”

“I have to finish my breakfast actually.” Snufkin said motioning to the pot cooking over his fire.

“Ok, see you later!” Snorkmaiden said and waved goodbye as she ran off.

Snufkin stirred his soup, humming as he did. He pulled his spoon up and blew on it before sipping it. It tasted off, but he didn’t make it any different than how he usually made it. 

Then it happened. A bad feeling overwhelmed him, he gripped his sides as a feeling of nausea built up. As soon as it came it passed and thankfully Snufkin hadn’t puked.

Was it the stew? He tried tasting it again, but it was fine. A foreboding...he had felt similar ways a couple days before when he tried to leave Moominvalley. Snufkin stood and went over to his tent to pull out his tarot deck. One card. He pulled a card from his deck and took a deep breath before flipping it. He held his breath looking at the card before him: the tower . Whatever was going to happen was going to be bad. He knew it. 

Then it hit him, was his previous foreboding even done yet? Was Joxter not the change that he was supposed to be scared of? He put the bag containing the seed into his pocket and rubbed his forehead.

What could possibly be on the horizon? 

————————————————

Moomintroll sat across from Joxter as they ate their breakfast. He wasn’t feeling particularly hungry, he pushed his food around his plate and curiously listened in to the conversation. He hadn’t ever really noticed before, but unlike Snufkin, Joxter had no table manners. He used his hands to eat his pancakes and would occasionally talk with his mouth full. His parents carried on with their conversation as if it meant nothing to them, but Moomin knew that if he were to do the same he would be scolded. Joxter scratched his cheek and smeared syrup in his stubble— at this Moominpappa bellowed a chuckle, “Joxter you are going to have a beard of flies with the mess you're making.” 

Joxter looked at Moominpappa and without breaking eye contact he licked his hand and began to scrub at his cheek. Him and Moominpappa didn’t break eye contact until a

a knock came from the door.

“I’ll get it!” Moomin said standing and taking his dishes to the sink.

“Thank you Moomin dear.” Moominmamma said to him as he left the room.

Snorkmaiden smiled happily as he answered, “good morning Moomintroll!”

The events of the day before caught up to Moomin as he looked at her, he could feel his face grow warm as a quiet anger boiled in his gut, but he pushed it away so he could talk to his friend.

“Hello Snorkmaiden.” He greeted her. “What brings you here today?”

“I wanted to let you know that my brother's flying machine is almost finished!” She explained happily.

“What? Really, really?” Moomin asked. Perhaps he seemed a little too surprised, but the Snork had been working on his invention for years and every time he would be ‘done’ it turned out to either be incomplete or something bad would happen and everything would fall apart.

“Really, really! Snork has also told me that he invited several important inventors he knows of to travel in to see it in action. They all responded and he even stirred up some traction in the rest of the inventors community.” She explained

“He’s that confident in it?” Moomin asked in astonishment, “Well then, I can’t wait to see it.”

Snorkmaiden nodded before her eyes widened, “oh I forgot to ask how you were doing today.”

“Hm?” Moomin looked at her in confusion, “I’m fine.”

“Just making sure, you didn’t seem very well yesterday.” Snorkmaiden explained, “Did you get sick from the food?”

No, not exactly. “Yeah,” Moomintroll lied. He looked past her to Snufkin's campsite where he sat eating breakfast.

“Snufkin says he will come hang out after he is done with breakfast.” She said following his gaze. 

“You talked with him?” Moomin asked.

Snorkmaiden gave him a quizzical look, “yeah, of course.” Of course? “I always say hi if I see him out. Are you ok Moomin?”

Perhaps he was overthinking it, and besides Sniff could have heard things wrong. It wouldn’t be the first time he had.

Or maybe everything Sniff said was true and they are keeping it from him. Oh, why does his stomach hurt so terribly? 

Moomin clenched and unclenched his paw, his eyes tried to focus but...“I’m...feeling a little nauseous actually.” His vision swirled and he leaned against the door for support and almost fell over, but Snorkmaiden caught him.

“You really are sick!” She gasped, “Moominmama-“

“-I’m fine...really.” Moomintroll tried to assure her.

Snorkmaiden scowled and placed a paw on his forehead, “no, you are burning up.”

Moomintroll didn’t know if that was the truth or if his face was growing hot from embarrassment, but he rolled with it. 

“Perhaps...I am.” He said weakly. 

Moominmama came over quickly.

“Oh dear…”

“He was fine for a moment, but then he just fell over.” Snorkmaiden explained, “He said he was feeling nauseous.”

“Oh dear, let’s get him to the couch.” Moominmama suggested and the two girls hoisted him over their shoulders and carried him over.

As Moomintrolls head spun, the next minutes were a blur, filled with Snorkmaiden and Moominmamma making sure he was comfortable.

“I was wondering why he wasn’t touching his food. He should spend this time resting.” Moominmamma suggested as she tucked him in.

“I will let Snufkin know as well.” Snorkmaiden said, before she left she patted the blanket he was tucked into, “feel better Moomin.”

Moomin felt too warm and tired to answer, he immediately drifted off to sleep.

Chapter Text

Snufkin waved to Snorkmaiden as she approached, she looked worried. 

“What's wrong?” Snufkin asked. 

“Moomin is very ill, he almost fell over when we were talking just now.” Snorkmaiden said as she wrung her paws together anxiously.

Snufkin sat up quickly, almost spilling his soup, “does he need anything?”

“Me and Moominmamma made sure he was comfortable, but he seemed pretty out of it. He probably just needs some rest.”

Snufkin looked down at his soup and then back up at her. “Perhaps he would like some stew?”

“He’d probably be really grateful for it.” Snorkmaiden said with a nod of approval.

...So there he stood. Snufkin looked down at the small lidded pot he held with a towel so he didn’t burn himself. He hadn’t knocked yet having just arrived and also having no free hand to knock with. However luck seemed to be in his favor because Moominmama opened the door.  She was facing inward as she did and was carrying her black purse.

 “I’ll be right back Moomin, I’ve got to-“ She turned to face him then let out a surprised squeak as she almost fell backwards.

“Snufkin!” She said with a paw to her chest, “goodness, I wasn’t expecting you to be there.”

“Sorry Moominmama, I was going to knock, but I found my hands too full to do anything.” He said lifting the pot slightly. “I heard from Snorkmaiden that Moomin was sick so I cooked up the stew I eat whenever I am feeling ill.”

Moominmama’s eyes widened and she clasped a paw over the one already on her chest.

“Oh Snufkin, thank you so much. I am sure he will appreciate it… though I am in a hurry, I have an errand to run for Miss Fillyjonk-“

“I can take it inside real quick.” Snufkin promised, “Us Mumrik don’t get ill very easily, if that eases any concerns.”

Even after saying this Moominmama’s expression was of worry, “are you sure?”

Snufkin nodded with an assured smile, “don’t worry about me Moominmama.”

“Snufkin, I worry about all of you kids.” She said with a smile, “now...if he tries to get up while you're in there-don’t let him. He is being very stubborn, much like his father is when ill.”

Snufkin nodded and moved so she could walk past before slipping into the dimly lit home. He shut the door with his foot before heading straight for the kitchen.

Once he had put it away he came back into the main room where Moomintroll lay sleeping. His face looked tired and his fur stuck out in different directions from being bedridden all morning. Snufkin didn't realize he had been staring until his eyes met the others' blue eyes.

“Snufkin?” Moomin asked, his voice nasally. 

“Yes?”

“I’m not sick Snufkm-“

Snufkin chuckled, “perhaps you're right, but you might be worse off if you don’t get rest. I brought you some soup by the way.”

Moomin smiled, “Thank you Snufkin, that's so thoughtful….But what about Snorkmaiden?”

Hm? What about Snorkmaiden? Did Moomin not know she left a while ago? 

“Well Snorkmaiden was worried about you and came to tell me.” He said.

“No-no…” Moomin shook his head, “what about Snorkmaiden and...my feelings!”

What? Is he trying to say...he likes her? Snufkin felt like his heart was sinking.

“What do you mean?” Snufkin asked. 

“Isn’t it obvious how I feel?” Moomin asked. 

About Snorkmaiden? 

“Sniff told me all about your confession and I don’t like it one bit!”

Snufkin clutched his coat, his eyes stung as he tried to remind himself that Moomin was just delirious from his illness….But he knew that wasn’t all true. What Moomin meant was obvious, he must have figured out Snufkin's plans to confess to him. 

He doesn’t feel the same- but Little My had assured… Was this some kind of sick prank she was trying to pull on him? Did she and Snorkmaiden figure out his feelings only to ruin his friendship with Moomintroll?

He was probably better off alone after all. His eyes grew heavy with tears so he pulled his hat down so Moomin couldn’t see.

“I’ll be going then I suppose.” He muttered.

Moomin didn’t say anything as Snufkin left, and it felt like his heart was being torn into pieces.

———————————————————

After breakfast Joxter had left in search of a good place for a much needed bath. He was always surprised at the amount of grime that could build up on him, luckily Joxters could survive months on end with no bathes! Though, that isn’t to say that it was hygenic or that it smelled very great. He had always hated how the cold water felt on his fur and bare skin, and how it clung to him well after he had dried off. He found a secluded place for his bath, even though he would have bathed anywhere comfortably. Joxter liked to bathe in private for different reasons. One reason being that he could actually enjoy his time without others bothering him-- 

--A wave of nausea overcame him, he knew it was a foreboding and sunk deeper into the water.

Then he heard them; voices of travelers walking past. Familiar voices actually, VERY familiar.

He hadn’t heard her voice in years. Seventeen years to be exact- and he wasn’t prepared to face her...especially at this moment. 

The loudest of the voices, although they were slightly different now from how he remembered, were presumably Mymbla and Marbles. They were talking about how excited they were to see Little My and Mymble Jr. Then he heard a couple more, younger sounding kids. He knew that Mymble had most likely moved on when he left, so it wasn’t a shock.

Something came from the other side of the bush; it looked like a necklace. 

“Mumble you’ve got to be more careful with your things.” Mymbla said.

The brush above Joxter rustled as a Mymble with silver hair and green eyes poked through. She was like Snufkins was, a mix between two species. Except Mymble hadn’t gained a strong attachment to Mumbles father, like she had with Joxter. 

Mumble scratched her head and began to search through the grasses for the necklace. When she found it, she let out a sigh of relief and stuffed it in her pocket.

As she got up, her eyes scanned the area, from the trees, to the forest floor to the river and then her eyes met Joxters. She stood frozen, her bright green eyes locked with his blue.

Joxter put a finger to his mouth. Please, please don’t get others' attention.

Mumble nodded quickly and put a finger to her lips before slipping back into the bushes.

Joxter held his breath till he realized she wasn’t going to tell them anything. He breathed out a sigh of relief and got out of the water. Perhaps today was not a good day to relax after all. 

——————————————————

Little My had been on the way to the Moominhouse when she noticed Moominmamma walking down the path towards her. 

“Moominmama!” She called out waving.

“Hello Little My!” Moominmamma greeted me with a kind smile.

“What are you doing?” Little My asked looking at the basket Moominmama held. 

“Just running an errand with Ms. Fillyjonk, nothing that will take too long. Though I think I should tell you that Moomintroll isn’t feeling very well today. He almost fell over and is in bed rest at the moment.”

“Oh.” Little My said disappointedly, “well...perhaps I can keep Snufkin company today!” She waved goodbye to Moominmama and continued down the path.

That's when she noticed Snufkin running away from Moominhouse in a hurry. Whatever happened...it must have been bad. Oh brother . As she got closer she noticed he was wiping at his face. 

“Snufkin!” She called out, “what's wrong?” He looked up and his sorrowful expression changed quickly to anger. Her instincts immediately kicked in and she found herself running.

“Little My!” Snufkin shouted out as he chased her. She jumped and ducked under things that Snufkin couldn’t. Her younger sibling uncharastically plowed through a patch of pretty flowers and even somehow stepped into a bucket. However, he didn’t slow down. Finally he lunged and caught onto Little My’s leg.

“W-what did I do?!” My cried out as she punched and kicked his hand.

Snufkin glared at her, “you lied to me!”

“I lie a lot, but please tell me what thing I lied about?!” My asked.

Snufkin let out a huff, “you told me Moomintroll liked me!”

“He does!” She assured him without hesitance.

Snufkin looked taken aback by this. “Oh? Well then explain to me why he told me he liked Snorkmaiden and that he heard ALL about the confession from Sniff? He told me…” Snufkin’s eyes were wet with tears, and so were his cheeks. “He told me he didn’t like me.”

“...no that can’t be.” Little My assured him, “he must be confused from his illness.”

Snufkin shook his head, “he seemed so sure about this stuff… I...I just wish you had been more honest with me.” Snufkin stood up and dusted off his coat and fixed his hat. He began to walk away but then stopped and kicked the bucket off his foot. 

Little My sniffed and wiped her face with her sleeve. She was being honest. She knew the truth . And the current truth was that she was going to kick Sniffs stupid butt.

————————————————

Snufkin began to pick up his stuff, his movements quick.

Perhaps I should just move on. It's still early spring….I could travel in warmer weather for the first time in a while.

He could only imagine that if he were a tea kettle steam would be pouring from his ears. Eventually in his bout of rage and grief he tripped over something and couldn’t convince himself to get up. 

He knew he was crying, that his knees and hands were probably scraped up from the fall, but at the moment everything in the world felt numb. He crawled into his tent, sobbed and curled into himself. He felt humiliated and he felt like a fool for falling so hard. Metaphorically that is, though tripping was also a foolish thing.

“I’m a fool. A fool.” He said, knocking his fist against his forehead.

After another minute of heavy sobbing he pulled himself together enough to sit up, the numbness continued, but his focus changed to the instrument tucked into his blanket. 

Snufkin sighed and exited the tent with the flute in hand.

Maybe ...he thought about when Moomin had held his paws the night the flute was taken...or  even the fact that Moomin cuddled with him and even seemed to enjoy it... Yeah...maybe it wasn’t actually true? Maybe Moomintroll was just confused... 

…but then why would he say those hurtful things to Snufkin ? 

As Snufkin pondered this he failed to notice the new arrivals.

“Excuse me!” A familiar voice said, “Do you know if the Moomin’s are in?”

Mymble and her plethora of children had arrived in Moominvalley.

Chapter Text

Mymble had a lot of children. Snufkin had known that for a while, but now that he knew he was one of her children... All he could do was stare at her, his eyes wide and mouth open. What looked like eleven kids stood around her from various ages ranging from Little My’s age to younger. His siblings, albeit his half siblings, but siblings nonetheless. He hadn’t even thought about how big his family was outside of Little My, Mym and Joxter. 

“Are you alright?” Mymble looked at him with a worried expression.

Should I bring it up? Should I tell her? Snufkin felt a panic rise in him, not now. 

“I-Uh….I have to go.” Snufkin said and ran past them.

—————————————————

Mymble sighed, the Snufkin friend of Moomin was as shy as ever. She turned to Mumble who was twirling a flower around in her hand and then back to the campsite which looked like a tornado had gone through it. Something shiny caught her eye and she bent down to pick it up. A mouth organ? Oh it must be Snufkins….but why did it look so...

“Mom?” 

Mymble turned and saw Little My at the edge of the bridge.

“Little My!” She greeted me with her hands outstretched. “It's so good to see you!”

Little My laughed and ran over for the hug. She was so tiny, the tiniest of her children. 

“Where is Snufkin?” Little My asked as she crawled onto her mother's shoulder. 

“He ran off.” Mymble said, “I didn’t think he was still that shy of me.”

Little My shook her head, “it's not you-I mean it might have been part of it, but he’s been going through a lot.”

“How so?” 

Little My sighed and looked down, she noticed the harmonica in her mother's hands and looked back at her mother in concern.

“Where did you get that?” 

“The mouth organ?” Mymble asked, “I think Snufkin dropped it, but I was thinking it looked familiar—“

“Joxter.” A soft voice spoke up.

Mymble tensed up, “now...Mumble you know how I feel about bringing up-“

“No!” Mumble said and pointed at the harmonica, “Joxters.”

Mymble laughed at the absurdity, “however would Snufkin have gotten that? I left that old thing with—“ She stopped as it dawned on her what it meant. She turned to Little My.

“Is he?”

“You're son? The one you put in an orphanage? Yeah.” 

Mymble took Little My from her shoulder and handed her the harmonica.

“We were coming by...to visit Mymble Jr. and her new partner….”

Little My gripped the harmonica angrily, “you can’t change the subject! You have to accept responsibility for what you did!”

Mymble shook her head, “I don’t have responsibility over him any more.”

“You abandoned him! What if Joxter were to have come back?”

Mymble went red in the face, “he’s—he’s not-“

“He did!” Little My shouted. The other kids looked shocked except for Mumble who was twirling her hair around her finger nonchalantly. Mymble shook her head, “you’re lying.”

Little My laughed, “the idiot ran away from his problems… but he has been facing them head on and y’know… it seems to me that he genuinely cares about connecting with Snufkin.”

Mymble turned, “that...doesn’t sound like the Joxter.”

“I’m sure if you two talk-“

“There is nothing to be talked about.” Mymble said motioning to the other children, “he had his chance to be with us.” She rubbed her forehead, “we were never enough for him, why would we be enough now?”

“What?” My questioned.

Mymble shook her head, “all I am saying...is that I am over the Joxter.”

“You can be over Joxter, I don’t care what your feelings are towards him. But please…” Little My said, holding out the harmonica, “...at the very least be there for Snufkin.”

——————————————————

Joxter watched Mymble take the harmonica from Little My. He had followed the family from far and caught up when Little My had started to confront her. He sighed as Mymble and her family left and shrunk into himself. So much for fixing things with the Mymble...though, he guessed it was for the better. He always knew deep down that he wasn’t meant for settling down. The Mymble herself was better off without him, she was free to have the big family she always wanted. He just hoped that she would patch things up with Snufkin like he had been doing. He hopped down from the tree he’d been perched in and began back towards the way he came from, towards the ocean. 

The dock was nice and the weather was clear and warm. He whistled as he kicked his feet, peering at the dark water below. 

——————————————————

Moomintroll opened his eyes drowsily to a dimly lit room, sunlight filtered through the closed curtains slightly. He stretched lasily, his head still felt heavy and his nose a little clogged up-probably from crying? He was still sure he wasn’t sick—more like love sick. He groaned as he remembered the confused, tearfilled eyes of Snufkin. Something wasn’t right, Moomin had messed up. Was it because he didn’t accept that Snufkin was with Snorkmaiden? He guessed...he would be disappointed if the same thing was said to him. 

Or was it something else? Snufkin looked...heartbroken. Whatever it was….that he was sad about, Moomintroll felt awful about it. He knew that the second he could gather the energy he was going to find Snufkin and apologize to him.

If he was still around.

Moomin shook his head to get rid of the thought. No of course Snufkin wouldn’t leave!...Right?

————————————————

Joxter woke up, he was laying flat on his back with his hands intertwined and his legs dangling over the dock. He noticed that the sky was orange, it hadn’t felt like that much of  a day, but he had slept through most of it--

“Oh-Hello Joxter!” A familiar voice called out. 

Joxter turned and noticed the familiar face of Snorkmaiden and the not so familiar face...of...?

“Hello Snorkmaiden.” He greeted lifting his hat and smiling. Joxter peered at the other troll, he was a Snork a little taller than Snorkmaiden with glasses and long, purplish hair.

“Hello, my name is Snork.” Snork said, “So you are the friend of Moominpappa that I heard so much about.”

“Did Moominpapa share stories of me with everyone?”

“Oh yes!” Snorkmaiden said nodding, “but actually I was the one who told my brother about you.”

“Well, it's a pleasure to meet you.” 

“Are you just napping here?” Snorkmaiden asked, as she and her brother sat down next to him. 

Joxter nodded, “I had a good feeling about this spot. You always have to chase those feelings if you ever get them.”

Snork nodded, “I totally agree! I have been feeling very confident in my flying boat lately!”

“Flying boat?” Joxter asked, “you're an inventor?”

“Yes I am.” Snork said and puffed out his chest proudly. “And I am very confident in my invention this time around!”

Snorkmaiden laughed, “me too Snork! Could you imagine all the trips we could go on with it.” She closed her eyes and held her face. “Oh, to go to an island resort!”

“Hmm.” Joxter looked out at the horizon, “well… I'll be off.”

“Don’t you want to stay to meet one of the most famous inventors of our time?” Snork asked.

“Hm?” Joxter looked at the Snork in confusion and then back at the empty waters. Was he still tired from his nap or was he not seeing any incoming ships?

“Oh you must be a little confused!” Snork laughed.

Joxter squinted his eyes, “what is there to be confused about?”

Snork looked at his watch, “he should be here any moment.”

“One of the greatest inventors!” Snorkmaiden exclaimed, “His books have inspired my brother since he was a little kid!”

Then Joxter noticed it, the water began to ripple and sway in a very strange way-until.

A boat came out from the depths of the sea, water ran down its metal as it bobbed up and down.

When it finally calmed a hatch on the top of the ship opened and out came— no it couldn’t be!

“Hodgkins! The inventor of the submarine!” Snork said proudly.

Joxter stood frozen in place, the troll before him had yet to notice Joxter as he helped another familiar troll from the machine. 

“Ahoy!” Snork called out, “Welcome to Moominvalley!”

The troll turned to face them, his whiskers twitching nervously. There before him, rugged red coat, horizontally striped red and white pants and a soup pot upon his head, stood the Muddler.

His brown eyes landed on Joxter and they held each other's gazes. Muddler’s eyes held such a long and tired story behind them, he seemed sad, but also somehow... happy? Muddler turned quickly away as he almost forgot that he was helping Fredrickson out of the submarine.

“Wait….Hodgkins?” Joxter asked nobody in particular. “Which one of them are you referring to?”

“Mmm not sure.” Snork shrugged. “He never included a photo in his books.”

Joxter shook his head and sighed, it had to be Fredrickson of course. Muddler was a collector and a painter, not an inventor, but he kept quiet. Was Fuzzy with them ? Muddler had gone back into the ship only to resurface with some luggage.

Perhaps not. He was a little disappointed, back in the good ol’ days they found that they were both fellow lovers of pranks. He knew that if she were here, they could pull a couple good ones on Moominpappa.

“Here!” Snork said, reaching his arms out, “let me help bring those down!”

“Oh t-thank you!” Muddler said. His voice was a lot more rough now, but his stutter was still there. Joxter smiled at the familiar sound. “Who's that down there?” Fredrickson asked, fixing his glasses, “it looks like they had a red mushroom on their head.” Fredrickson coughed into his hand after he said this. “Reminds me of an old friend.”

“You're not going blind are you?” Joxter asked with a playful smile.

“What was that?” Fredrickson asked, “you even sound like him!”

“Losing your hearing as well. How tragic.” Joxter snickered, “Come on Fredrickson. Don’t you know I always show up where least expected?”

“Joxter…?”

“Yes my friend?” He asked with a mischievous grin. 

Fredrickson stared at him in shock for a couple seconds before his expression quickly changed. 

“JOXTER— YOU IDIOT YOU HAD US THINKING YOU WERE DEAD!” Fredrickson shouted angrily, “If I wasn’t too worried about throwing my back out I’d jump from this old ship and slug you right in that smug mug of yours!”

“It's fine, Moomintroll already gave me a good one.” Joxter explained tapping his slightly bruised cheek.

Snork and Snorkmaiden listened to the exchange with peaked interest.

“Wish I could have seen it!” Fredrickson laughed. “Though I suppose me and Muddler are both in for one as well for all the mail we’ve probably missed in our travels.”

“Is Fuzzy with you?” Joxter asked.

“She...left me…” Muddler said as he handed his luggage down to Joxter. He scratched his head sheepishly as he spoke. “Or I suppose I left her? iiit-it was complicated.”

Joxter didn’t know how to react, he felt bad for even bringing her up now, “I’m sorry to hear that.”

“It's fine, I’d rather her be happy, y’know?”

Joxter knew that Muddler was probably hurting; he could tell the moment his eyes met his own. 

“WAIT A MOMENT!” Snork said, cutting through the awkward conversation. He pointed at Joxter. “You know them?!” He said pointing to Fredrickson and Muddler. 

“Well of course we know Joxter!” Fredrickson huffed, “he’s a wonderful engineer who helped me build several ships back in the day.”

“You knew Hodgekins and didn't say anything?” Snork wailed, but was pushed away as Snorkmaiden butted in. 

“Moominpappa never mentioned that you were an engineer.” She pointed out.

Joxter ignored them and turned to Fredrickson and Muddler, “what’s this Hodgkins thing about?” He asked.

“Well… it's my first name Joxter.” Fredrickson explained.

“What? I could have sworn it was just Fredrickson!”

“That's our last name.” Muddler said as he climbed onto the dock. “D-did you not know that?”

“How would I have known that?” Joxter asked motioning to nothing.

Muddler and Hodgkins looked at each other and then they both laughed.

“What?” Joxter asked worriedly.

“You’ve not changed one bit.” Hodgkins said, patting his shoulder and smiling, “we missed you.”

Joxter smiled, “I missed you guys too. There is a lot to catch up on.”

“We’ll be here for a while, the Snorks offered us to stay with them for the reveal after all.”

“Have you and M-Mymble made up?” Muddler asked.

“We haven’t talked, but I do know that she’s still mad at me...for leaving.”

“How long have you been back?” Muddler asked as he anxiously played with his sleeve.

“About a week now…perhaps we can go on a walk later to catch up?” Joxter suggested.

“You two can go on a walk, I’d rather relax a bit.” Hodgkins said as he sorely rubbed his back. “It's been a rough couple of hours.”

“A walk sounds nice.” Muddler agreed, “but let's get this luggage to the Snorks first.”

Chapter Text

Moominhouse was quiet that night, except for the soft sound of crickets and the rhythmic ticking of their grandfather clock. Moomin sat awake on the sofa staring out the window towards the moon, which was sinking ever slowly into the tree lined horizon. He hadn’t been awake for very long, but he was too mesmerized by the view to go back to sleep.

A figure, silhouetted by the moon, caught Moomin’s attention. They were just down the road and seemed to be heading towards Moomin House. He had thought it was Snufkin at first, due to the pointed hat, but realized it was just Joxter returning from who-knows-where.

Moomin slipped back under his covers and closed his eyes. The door handle jiggled a brief moment before the door itself creaked open and a low hum broke through the quiet of the night.

Moomintroll peaked an eye open and watched as Joxter walked past. He noticed that the older man had a sort of skip to his step as he walked, something he had not seen the man do before.

Now that Moomin was comfortable he could feel himself becoming drowsy again. Perhaps tomorrow he will feel better. 

—————————————————

Mymble Jr’s house was abuzz with activity very early in the morning. Little My, Mumble, Mymbla, Marbles and Mym along with Tooticky had set to working on breakfast and keeping the kids properly distracted with games. Mymble herself was taking a much needed rest after their travels. She sat on the couch looking at the harmonica closely, tracing her finger along the familiar engravings. Snufkin had run off without it the other day, which was not at all like him according to Little My. They spent a good portion of the day searching for him the day before, but just like his father he was pretty good at hiding when he didn’t want to be seen.  She sighed; she really should apologize. She was the one who had given him up back then. Though...she didn’t regret it either, because  she had not been in the right mindset to take care of him by herself. Without Mym and Little My to help her, she was completely useless and depressed. 

Mym brought her some food and a drink, her expression worried as she looked down at the harmonica.

“I know we’ll find him today!” Mymble's daughter assured her with a hopeful smile, “he has to come back soon, especially since all his stuff is still at the Moominhouse.”

“Perhaps we can start there.” Little My suggested. 

Mym nodded, “if anything he’ll probably show up during the Snorks big reveal tonight.”

“Oh I almost forgot about that,” Tooticky laughed, “I can’t wait to see it fly!”

Mymble smiled at the other's joy, Tooticky was a delight to be around and seemed like the perfect partner for her daughter. She had always wanted a partner like that, someone who was relaxed and was willing to help when needed. Back when she had first met Joxter he was what she thought to be the “perfect man” So from the second she met him she had started to court him. The first thing she tried was a present, as was custom between Mumriks and Mymbles. He however wasn’t interested in the new clothing or the jewelry. So she asked his friend Muddler for advice. 

From what she had deduced was that Muddler and Joxter were as close as any two friends could be. They played music together, painted together, took naps, took walks, ate meals, and they even had a special handshake (although Joxter constantly botched it on purpose to Muddlers dismay). You name it, they were constantly at each other's sides. So Mymble knew that if anyone had the key to Joxters heart, it was Muddler.

“Oh! I-I know, he likes musical instruments.” Muddler told her as they prepared food for a festival one evening. She was lucky enough to find a moment when Joxter wasn’t around Muddler. (Usually when it came to preparations he had little to no interest.)  

“He told me once that the J-Joxters would have a large festival once a year where his family would travel in from around the w-world to have a feast and dance. Joxter’s close family was in charge of of music since they were the ones who lived under their families fruit tree year round.” Muddler had explained to her.

That was when she decided to have a musical instrument made for Joxter. The harmonica she held was a harmonica originally to express her love for Joxter, but now it was completely different. 

She remembered finding Joxter alone, crying in a tree one night. It was the night of Muddler and Fuzzy’s wedding. He looked scared at first when he noticed her below him, but when he realized she wasn’t going to think less of him for how he felt he calmed down. She gave him the harmonica, no package, or bow; just like how Muddler had instructed. His soft smile meant everything in that moment and he crawled down and let Mymble embrace him in his sadness.

She knew he was in love with someone else from the start, but she thought...since the Muddler was married…

Perhaps she had been using Joxter as well and perhaps she was being just as selfish as he was in the relationship.

He used her to find a reason to stay and she used him knowing full well he had no true feelings for her. She had known from the start… but still it hurt. It is over now, their relationship has run its course and ended. It was always meant to, even if she found herself unable to admit it aloud.

All she could do now was make amends and fix what little of a relationship she and her son had with each other.

——————————————————

The valley was a sight to behold, the afternoon brought people by the dozens, who all gathered to see The Snorks magnificent flying boat— emotions ranged from excitement to see it soar...or for the possibility to see it crash and burn. To probably no one’s surprise the ladder was Stinky’s hope. 

Stinky hopped around the bustling hillside in search of familiar faces. The first thing he noticed was the distinct lack of Moomin’s in the crowd, he did however find the Mymble family; they were hard to miss. Mymbles children were a crowd in themselves keeping close to their mother as they walked. Mymble Jr and the Police Hemulan seemed to still be avoiding each other as per usual nowadays, each kept to opposite areas of the crowd. Mymble Jr seemed happier though, sticking close to Tooticky’s side. 

Little My rode on her Mother's shoulder and when she made eye contact with Stinky, well, her glare alone was a warning for him not to mess with anything. 

Of course he wasn’t! He was a changed man now, if things were to go wrong he would rather it be fate running its course and the boat blowing up naturally. He wouldn’t be surprised if anything did happen, knowing the Snorks track record with his inventions.

The crowd hushed as a large cloth covered machine was wheeled out of the Snorks workshop.

He and Snorkmaiden along with a couple unfamiliar faces were helping with this. One of the unfamiliar faces had a fashion sense uncannily like his friend Snufkins. Did Snufkin have some relatives visiting or something? He had thought that Snufkin was an orphan like him, though you could never really know with the Moomin family's friends.

Speaking of Snufkin and the Moomins, they were all STILL missing from the crowd. He looked around again to make sure, but they were nowhere to be seen. He noticed Sniff close by and walked over to greet him.

“Hi Sniff, where's your pals?”

Sniff jumped at the sudden voice and turned to him, slightly confused for a second until he processed Stinky’s question.

“You mean Moomin?” Sniff asked, “last time I heard he wasn’t feeling very well… and I don’t really know about Snufkin.” Sniff kicked his foot in the dirt and looked down worriedly, “everyones actually worried about both of them honestly. Especially for Snufkin because he’s been missing for so long.”

“Oh really? Do you want me to go and look for him?” Stinky asked, “I always end up bumping into him, so I am sure I could find him.”

Sniff’s ears perked up, “but what about the boat?”

Stinky shook his head and waved his hand, “This stuff isn’t really my thing-oh! But let me know what happens if it fails.”

Sniff looked at him with an angry scowl, “it's not going to fail stinky.”

“I said if not when.” Stinky argued and turned to leave.

“Well it's not!” Sniff argued again, obviously angry at the simple suggestion of it. 

“Ok, see ya!” Stinky called out as he left.

He didn’t know where he was going, but he knew he had to find Snufkin.

“Ok Stinky, if you were Snufkin where would you be?” He asked himself. One he was fairly far, he slowed his sprint to more of a steady jog. Snufkin would most likely be in the forest so that's where Stinky headed. As he entered the woods an eerie feeling washed over him. The woods never creeped him out before, in fact Stinky practically spent most of his days in the woods and never felt anything similar. A chill went up his spin and he could feel his fur fluff out at the feeling. It felt like he was being watched, but by who? Could it be— “Snufkin?” He asked.

A growl came from behind him and he froze, he flinched slightly as a warm gust of air hit his back. He turned slightly and came face to face with a grizzly bear, though its eyes were glowing.”

“B-b-b-b-b-b-“ He felt like the blood had drained from his body. Run. RUN !

He turned to run but tripped on a tree root.

“Ow ow ow!” He scrambled to get up, only to fall again due to his injured foot.

“I need your help Stinky.” A voice said out of nowhere. 

“Who said that?”

“ Mielikki, the spirit of this forest.”   The voice replied, “ You want to help your friend Snufkin, yes? He is alive... He needs his friends' help.”

“ H-huh?” Stinky looked around, “but where is-“ He stopped mid sentence when he noticed Snufkin in the center of a clearing. His whole body was radiating a golden light and he had a flute lifted up to his face. A hum rang out around them. It sounded kind of like if a record player was playing a song slowly. 

“He wasn’t thinking rationally and decided to play the magic flute I gave him...forgetting about the seed in his pocket. He can be saved, I’ve slowed time down around him, though it won’t last for long—especially if someone or something interacts with him.”

Stinky gaped at the sight, his legs wobbling in fright, but he knew that if he didn’t warn the others then Snufkin could… Well, he didn’t want to think about that. So he turned tail and ran back towards the event.

Hopefully he would be able to reach them in time.

————————————————

Moomintroll was finally able to talk his parents into letting him attend the Snorks event. He was feeling fine enough after all.

Moominpappa, who had impatiently waited for them, was excited to get out of the house for once after days of working on his memoir.

The Snorks yard was already swarmed with trolls of all different species. They were all talking amongst each other excitedly, thinking about the multitude of different uses for the flying boat. Moomintroll, of course, was far more excited about its flight rather than its uses though. 

Moominpappa pointed out the Mymble family and they slowly made their way over.

“Mymble I had no idea you were in town!” Moominmamma said as they greeted each other with hugs.

“Came in yesterday, but no one was home.” Mymble explained.

“I was home!” Moominpappa exclaimed, “although I was quite wrapped up in my memoirs…”

“I was home too, but I wasn’t feeling well.” Moomintroll said and sheepishly rubbed his paws together. So she and Joxter are Snufkin’s parents. He had so much trouble wrapping his mind around the idea, but in retrospect it made sense.

Mymble hummed and nodded her head, “I heard about that from Little My; I am glad to see you are doing better…” Mymble turned to look around the crowd. “...you are close to Snufkin, yes?”

“Yes.” Moomin nodded.

Mymble took out a shiny silver object from her dress pocket, “when I came to see your family yesterday Snufkin...ran off and left this behind. We search all over for him, but haven’t had any luck—“ Mymble rubbed her neck, “I—Well I know now that Snufkin is my son...So if you have any ideas of where he could be I would appreciate any suggestions”

“ Oh.” Where could Snufkin be?  Moomin had no idea. Snufkin wasn’t the type to have just one place to go to when he was upset. 

Before he could think of anything, Snork began his speech. Moominpappa made a surprised noise while Mymble and Moominmama starred in shock.

On a makeshift stage stood Snork who was talking into a megaphone. Next to him stood Joxter and two trolls Moomintroll could only assume were his father's old friends. Muddler, with his soup pot as a hat and Fredrickson in a purple jumpsuit.

As soon as Snork was done with his main announcement, Moominpappa dragged his family over to greet the crew of the Oshun Oxtra. 

Moomintroll watched curiously as Muddler and Moominpapa did a handshake of some sort.

“See!” Muddler said, turning to Joxter, “if Moomin can still do it, so can you.”

“Hey now.” Moominpapa laughed, “it's not that easy.”

“You remembered it though.” Muddler pointed out, and was quickly jabbed in the side by both Moominpapa and Joxter.

“Aaa betrayal!” Muddler said and fake died into his uncle's arms.

“Honestly!” Fredrickson said, pushing Muddler up, “aren’t you all too old for this?”

“Never too old for a good time.” Joxter said with a mischievous grin.

Moomintrolls ears perked up at the Mymble’s soft laughter from behind him. He looked at her and she quickly placed a hand over her mouth and looked away. He looked back over to Joxter again who seemed to be avoiding her direction. I wonder...is this the first time they’ve seen each other since-

His thoughts were interrupted by a shrill yell from the forest nearby.

“HELP SOMEONE!” Stinky ran from the forest towards them.

“What's wrong Stinky?” Snork asked, he looked quite annoyed at the interruption, especially since it was Stinky.

“SNUFKINS IN TROUBLE!” Stinky explained.

The folks from out of town looked at each other in confusion, but those who knew Snufkin all stepped forward.

“Where is he?” Snorkmaiden and Moomintroll both asked at once and looked at each other.

“He—“ Stinky leaned over to hatch his breath, he looked back towards the forest with knitted eyebrows. “The spirit of the forest…said he didn’t have much time. He’s apparently going to be …swallowed by a large fruit tree!”

“A fruit tree!?” Joxter, Moomintroll and Little My all asked at once.

Joxter looked at the other two and then back to Stinky. “How did this happen?”

“I was told he played a flute, and forgot about a seed in his pocket.”

Everyone shared concerned looks, Snork though, seemed the most confused.

“I don’t know what is going on.” Snork admitted, “but if it helps I can postpone the reveal of my flying boat—“

A couple sounds of protest came from the crowd, but Hodgkins stepped forward, which quieted them at once.

“Stop you're booing, a child's life is on the line!” He said to them, he pushed his glasses up into his nose “Although I was also looking forward to seeing this invention, I can tell this Snufkin fellow is very important to many people here.”

“He’s our friend.” Snorkmaiden smiled, holding onto Moomins arm.

“That’s right! He’s my best friend!” Moomin corrected.

“He’s my brother.” Little My called out.

“He’s my son.” Joxter and Mymble joined, they looked at each other curiously.

“THEN WHAT ARE WE DOING STANDING AROUND HERE?” Fredrickson yelled out, “LETS SAVE HIM!”

The trolls of the crowd who were well acquainted with Snufkin followed Stinky back into the forest. 

They ran as fast as they could, knowing that for all they knew Snufkin could be suffocating as they ran.

“Snufkin don’t...give up…. are coming to save you!” Moomin said through heavy breaths.

———————————————

A day earlier… Snufkin had run further out than he had really wanted to, but he didn’t care all too much. He found more comfort the more the distance he was away from it all. 

He slowed to a stop clutching his chest as he gasped for a breath of air. He removed his hat and fanned himself. He lost his balance and stumbled into a tree where he slowly slid down and sat.

He couldn’t stop replaying it all in his head. The cruel way Moomin had turned him down, the way Little My had deceived him, seeing his mother for the first time as his mother....he was so overwhelmed…he just… All he could think of doing now was playing a song.

He stuck his hand in his pocket.

Oh. It's….not there…

He checked the other pocket, and let out an annoyed groan. Of course! Of course he would lose his harmonica now of all times!

It wasn’t like he was without an instrument... he had the flute on him, but Snufkin didn’t like playing it. Its powers were still new, and it always took on a mind of its own when played. He was so used to the precise control he had to keep whilst playing his harmonica, it was a weird change of pace using the flute. He held it out, the evening sun glinted off its golden surface. He supposed he could give it his best and attempt to play something new. He stood, walking to a clearing and raised the flute to his lips. His breath felt shaky as he tilted his head up to where the treetops broke and the cloud littered sky poked through.

Ok. You can do it, just play something new.

However, just as per usual his fingers dance along the flute like it knew more than he did. The sound broke the silence of the forest and his whole body seemed to radiate in the darkness of the evening. 

What was going on? He couldn’t stop playing. Something was very wrong, but he had no idea what it could be--

--The seed. 

Oh no, oh no, oh no-

Vines began to constrict around him as the forest surrounding suddenly began to move faster than him. Suddenly a bear stood before him, looking at him, with a blank, wide star.

He felt like crying, he closed his eyes, the next thing he knew a paw held his cheek. He opened his eyes and Moomin stood before him, jumping out with his arms outstretched. The electric shock of the flute's magic hit him, but he held on to Snufkin. I don’t want to hurt you Moomin! He thought with tear-filled eyes.

Time began to move quickly just as two other figures jumped and grabbed hold of him as well.

Then the tree grew, its roots surrounding them until the four of them were completely swallowed into a pitch black.

Chapter Text

Snufkin had thought it was the end. He thought that his fate had finally been sealed and he had moved on to the afterlife. Regret and dread filled his mind when he was most likely at fault for the death of not only himself, but Moomin and the two other trolls that followed suit. 

He couldn’t tell where he was looking, it was all inky black. 

Suddenly a flicker of light came from the corner of his eye.  A bear stood before him, the only light being its glowing white eyes. “Mielikki?” He asked. “Where am I?”

“ Hmm...I did warn you Snufkin… ” She said calmly.

“Am I...dead?” Snufkin asked, looking around him were three other trolls silhouetted by the light, Moomin however was the closest. He turned and patted Moomin's arm. He was greeted with a pained groan. Moomin sat up and held his head.

“No, but you are stuck.” Mielikki replied, “however, this outcome is better than many outcomes I predicted.”

Snufkin looked around, Mielikki’s form radiated enough light that the cavern walls were revealed. Thick, large roots. The four of them were trapped inside the fruit tree.

“ ...Somehow, you were able to quickly save yourself using the flute.” Mielikki chuckled, “ you are a very foolishly lucky, Mumrik Snufkin. Do you know how you did it?”

“I...Have no idea.” Snufkin admitted looking at the flute in his hand.

Moomin let out a loud sob, grabbing Snufkin's attention. “Moomin? What's wrong?”

Moomin looked at him and then looked down at his paws, “I almost lost you Snufkin...before I could tell you...Snuf—” Moomin shook his head and wiped his tears away. Snufkin wrapped his arms around Moomin. “Shhh '' he said and leaned his head into the side of Moomin's neck. “It's ok, Dove.” he whispered.

“Dove?” Moomin asked in amusement. 

“Did I say that aloud?” Snufkin asked, pulling back slightly in embarrassment. He was quickly pulled back into a hug, followed by his friend's laughter. 

“No—it's cute. I like it.” Moomin said happily.

Oh, Moomin was going to be the death of him. He was so cute. “I love you.” he said before he realized what he was even saying.

Moomin's laughter stopped and he looked up at Snufkin, meeting his own eyes. “You...love me?” He asked, almost in disbelief. 

Snufkin fidgeted. “Er...yes? I mean- I have a deep admiration for you that goes beyond a normal friendship and-”

He was cut off by Moomin shoving his snout up to his own. He was confused at first at the gesture, but Snufkin realized he had seen Moominmamma and Moominpapa do this. A Moomin kiss. 

“I love you.” Moomin said as he nuzzled their snouts together, holding Snufkin's face in his paws. Snufkin’s eyes widened as he registered his friends words.

“You do?” He asked, he raised his own paws to hold Moomin's face.

“-Yes.” Moomin nodded.

“But what about—”

“—I feel like I am imposing on this whole thing.” A gruff voice said from behind them. Not too far away from them, laying on his side casually, resting his head on his hand was Joxter. Sitting not too far from him, also having witnessed the whole thing was Mymble.

“I had no clue he was dating our son.” She commented.

“I believe that they just confessed their feelings,” Joxter corrected.

Snufkin was bright red. “I uh...sorry if we made you uncomfortable.” He apologized. 

“Do I look uncomfortable?” Joxter asked as he lazily picked at his ear.

“It’s fine, Snufkin.” Mymble agreed, she smoothed out her dress and dusted it off a little. “So… this is the fruit tree that you were always going on about.” Mymble said looking around, “it's quite...a bit bigger than I thought it’d be.”

“We would have festivals with hundreds of Joxters- my whole family lived in it!” Joxter explained.

Mymble laughed, “I don’t know how big your family is hun, you never talked about them.” They laughed and once she was able to catch her breath an awkward air hung around them. 

“...Joxter I wanted to…apologize—”

“—No I should be the one apologizing!” Joxter said, “I left you, I should have talked with you about my feelings. I was stupid, I left you and the kids without any explanation…and Snufkin—”
“—you're were not stupid!” She argued, “we were both out of our element and trying something new. I didn’t even consider you needed time to heal after your heartbreak. I just wanted… I wanted to be with you.” She sighed, “I suppose it was wishful thinking on my part that you’d feel the same way, and now that I’m older I realize that the type of relationship I thought I wanted wasn’t something I needed.”

“But it was something I needed.” Joxter said, which surprised her, “At the time, I needed to get my mind off of what happened and accept that some things are out of my control. You were there for me when no one else was…even if it was for selfish reasons, we were both being selfish back then. I hope… that now, we can at least continue to be there for each other, and for Snufkin.”

“I would like that.” Mymble said.

As the two talked, Snufkin and Moomin had turned their attention back to each other. 

“I still can’t believe….”Moomin said, taking Snufkin's paw, “ARGH!” He brought them up to his face, “I’m going to end Sniff!”

Snufkin had no idea what Moomin was talking about. “What did Sniff do?”

Moomin shook his head, “he told me that you and Snorkmaiden were together.” 

Snufkin laughed, he laughed harder than he probably should have.

“It’s not funny! I got sick with heartbreak!” Moomin pouted.

“You're just…quite silly is all.” Snufkin laughed, and kissed Moomin’s paw.

“Was that a Mumrik kiss?” 

Snufkin hummed and nodded and then kissed Moomin’s nose causing him to squeak in surprise. 

“Perhaps we should begin figuring a way out.” Joxter finally suggested, “I am feeling slightly claustrophobic.”

“That will be easier said than done.” Mielikki explained.

They all looked amongst each other and then back at her, “how so?”

“Snufkin… “ She nodded to the flute. “I know of your distaste for it, but you need to learn to work with it. There is more to this flute than just growing flowers and trees.”

“But I-” Snufkin looked at the expecting faces of everyone. He couldn’t control it. He can’t control it. It had a mind of its own- like….like. He gasped.

“What is Snufkin? Moomin asked worriedly. Snufkin looked at his...boyfriend? He smiled and then turned back to the flute. There had to be some kind of trick to it, it had to have a rhyme or reason.

As they were told, the flute and how he viewed nature went hand in hand. He had always believed nature wasn’t meant to be controlled; it was a force that no creature had ever really taken the reins of before. Like how Snufkin couldn’t help his forebodings or how things would change and never be the same. Nature was a hurricane, it was a tornado, it was a tsunami, a meteor, a flood, a warm summer's day, and a cold winter's night. Nature was ever changing and so was life. It was the people who care for him, it was finding who he was, it was finding acceptance and it was love.

It was never about controlling the flute, just as Meilikki had said; he had to work alongside it, and guide it to the path he truly wanted. What he needed…  

He raised the flute to his lips and played. This time the flute didn’t control him, it allowed him to move himself freely. 

———————————————

Joxter listened and watched in awe as a very familiar tune burst forth from the golden flute. It was the same tune that had been written on the paper and the same tune he had heard weeks earlier in his dream. The dark was lit in a golden light and in the very center was his son. The roots of the tree creaked and shifted and the three trolls behind Snufkin could only watch in amazement as light from the outside finally filtered in. The roots creaked and moved away into an arched doorway.

Their friends and family stood on the other end, staring at them with a mixture of shock and disbelief. Joxter began to wonder if Meilikki had even bothered to tell them that they were alive. He concluded that she hadn’t when Muddler wasted no time in running right into his arms. The mouse-like troll grabbed Joxter’s face and began to litter it with kisses and Joxter laughed as he did so. Finally Muddler pulled away, tears rolling in streams down his face. “I-I thought y-you w-were— Oh Joxter, I c-couldn’t lose you again!” Muddler sobbed, hugging him close. Joxter smiled softly, rubbing comforting circles into his back. “I’m sorry for scaring you Mouse.”

“Well this is new.” Mymble said with an amused smile, before she could say anything more her children began to surround her; each one sobbing and saying how much they love her. She laughed happily as she knelt down and held her crying children close. 

Joxter looked from her to Snufkin who was looking at the group shyly. He made his way over to his son, pulling Muddler along with him.

“Son.”

“Joxter.” Snufkin greeted back and motioned to Muddler, “So I am assuming this is a new development?”

Muddler laughed nervously, “I guess we were going to tell everyone at some point…”

“Does this mean I have two Dads?” Sniff asked, coming out of the crowd. 

Muddler looked over in confusion, then between him and Joxter who gave him a thumbs up. “Sure.” Muddler said.

Sniff jumped with glee looking over at Snufkin in his excitment, “Snufkin I am your brother now! Wait- are you and Moomin holding paws?”

Snufkin and Moomin both looked away bashfully, but didn’t let go. 

“Congratulations son!” Moominpappa cheered as he and Moominmamma circled the group of crying Mymbles, “you finally got the guts to confess, eh?”

“Snufkin was the first to confess.” Moomintroll admitted and earned a good hearty laugh from Moominpapa. “I am still happy with the outcome either way son.”

“As am I” Moominmamma said, walking up and hugging Moomin. “And we are relieved you are all ok…We love you Moomin.”

“Love you Mama.” He said letting go of Snufkin's hand so he could give his parents proper hugs.

Joxter cleared his throat, and Snufkin turned to look at him.

“I….I’m glad you are alright… and that we weren’t…swallowed completely by this…” He motioned to the tree standing before them. It appeared to be just about ready to bear its fruit too. He smiled looking around at all his friends and family. “I never thought I’d see the day we were all together… and certainly never thought I’d see this tree again…heh.” He let out a nervous laugh and fidgeted with the brim of his hat bashfully when he realized everyone was looking at him.

“When d-did you become such an old sap? Muddler asked, elbowing him playfully.

“Muddler this may surprise you, but I have always been an old sap.” Joxter said with a sly smile and a wink, “I was just better at hiding it back in the day.” 

Snufkin watched them with a smile, he was glad his father was happy.

“Snufkin!” Suddenly Snufkin was almost knocked over as a small fluffy troll ran into him.

“—Stinky?”

Stinky sniffed, and looked up at Snufkin with tear filled eyes, “I was so scared you were going to die!” 

“Huh-?“

“He was the one who told us you were in danger.” Moomin told Snufkin. 

“He did?”

“Yeah!” Stinky said, “I was looking for you and the Bear tried to eat me!“

“No it didn’t. ” Mielikki assured everyone.

“Eeeh—logistics, anyways, when it told me you were in danger I ran to the Snorks party for help.” Stinky puffed up his chest proudly.

“Well…er, thank you Stinky, I appreciate it.” Snufkin said. 

“The Snorks party! Oh my, I almost forgot!” Muddler gasped. 

“Lets head back, we shouldn’t keep Snork and his inventor friends waiting much longer for the reveal.” Moominmamma said.

BRRRRRRRRRRRRRRROOOOOOOOONNNGGGGGGG

Everyone froze in fear as a loud horn interrupted the reunion, followed by a large shadow that fell over the forest. 

“HELLO, IS EVERYTHING ALRIGHT DOWN THERE!?” A voice called out from above. 

The group turned their heads upward to see a floating boat above them, suspended by a balloon-like top. A ladder dropped, and standing at the top of it was Snork who held a megaphone; next to him were Snorkmaiden and Hodgkins. 

The group climbed the ladder one by one, after a couple minutes everyone was able to climb into the flying ship.

As he was about to climb up Snufkin turned to Meilikki who was standing by the tree, looking up at its branches with a blank expression per usual for the bear face. Moomin caught his gaze and quickly cupped his hands to call out to her. “Mielikki are you coming along?” He called.

“I will stay here, the forest is my domain after all.” She replied, “go and have fun, life is a miracle after all, you should celebrate it.”

“Alright!” Moomin said waving, “I hope to see you again!”

Snufkin turned to the ladder than instead handed it to Moomin to go ahead. “Mielikki.” He said and the bear turned its head to look at him. “Listen closely to the sounds of the forest, next time I visit I will play you a song.”

“Thank you.” She said, then the bear moved, turning back to the woods and disappearing into the brush.

“Marvelous!” Moominpapa said, “Truly, I’ve seen it all now.”

“Just like old times, eh Moomin?” Joxter asked, nudging him, “all of us on a ship once again.”  “Oh yeah, just like old times!” Moominpapa agreed.

“Joxter, you can see the ocean from here!” Muddler said, tugging him away. Joxter laughed as they ran to the other side of the ship.

“I thought you said you were going to wait to start this thing up until you found out if everyone was ok?” Stinky asked Snork. Snork rubbing his head sheepishly.

“I… well I was worried, and when I saw the tree appear from nowhere, I just knew I couldn’t just sit idle. Also...the crowd was growing restless in their anticipation.”

“It was sort of a mess.” Hodgkin’s added, “but they quieted down really quick when he started up again.”

“We are just glad you are all ok.” Snorkmaiden said as she walked up to Snufkin and Moomin. “I don’t know what I’d do if I lost you two.”

Moomintroll smiled and hugged his friend. He was truly grateful to have someone like Snorkmaiden around.

“Well, let's enjoy this moment while it lasts!” Hodgkins said once everyone had climbed up the ladder, “Joxter, are you ready to put on a…” He paused looking around for his friend before spotting him. “Joxter stop snogging my nephew and come play us some music!” 

Joxter ran over and eagerly took his guitar from Hodgkins. He turned to Snufkin and smiled, “wanna show them our duet?”

“Sure—oh, but I don’t have my…” His harmonica was held out to him, he looked up to find it was Mymble who held it.

“I found this yesterday, thought you might want it back.” She said, giving him a wink.

“Thank you...Mom.” He said shyly, taking it. 

She smiled and clapped her hands excitedly, “now let me hear this famous duet of yours!”

As the sun set, the sky filled with pink and golden hues, clouds littered the sky in wispy streaks. A boat flew for the first time over a peaceful valley; a place that many creatures, big and small called home. The sound of a guitar and a harmonica sounded in perfect harmony as the friends and family danced the evening away.

---------------

Moomin and Snufkin met the following morning and walked through the forest hand in hand. They made their way to a nice breezy hillside to set up a picnic, where they finally were able to fly their kites in peace.

Oh, and the Joxter? He was quite satisfied with his tree. He and Muddler stuck around for a year, enjoying time with their friends and family. In Fact, during this time Joxter built a little house into the branches of the tree. Though he and Muddler weren’t the type to stick around long in one place. Together they traveled, coming back every spring to say their hellos and celebrate life with everyone they loved.