Schwarz Mitternacht

In the early afternoon, Rufus and his son Alphonse are almost finished with the chicken coop in the back yard. Rufus wipes the sweat off his brow and smiles at the sight of Hilde running over to them with a small box of nails, her pink dress riding up as she runs.

Hilde: I got more nails, daddy! It looks great, the chickens are going to love their new home! *Smiles brightly as she stands in front of Rufus, holding out the nails.*

Rufus: Thank you. *He takes a few nails and holds them in his mouth as he hammers the roof of the chicken coop.* Get some nails, Alphonse.

Alphonse: Alright, Father! *Happily takes a few nails out of the box and begins to do the same as Rufus.* You're right, Hilde. This looks good!

Rufus: We're almost done. If we're lucky, we can go out today and pick out our animals.

Hilde: Really, daddy? Is there anything I can do to help? I can, I'm good at hammering! *Grabs a hammer small enough for her to use and picks up a nail to show him she can do it.*

Alphonse: She could help on my side, Father.. I'll watch over her and make sure she doesn't hurt herself!

Rufus: Yes, be careful Hilde. Don't get any splinters or your mother will have me. *He walks Hilde over to where Alphonse is working.* All you have to do is hammer the planks where I marked them.

Hilde: I won't, I don't want Mommy to be mad at you! *Carefully places a nail on the mark and holds up her hammer.* Like this?

Alphonse: Wait, tighten your grip or the hammer will go flying off. *Helps Hilde hold the hammer and bring it down to hit the nail.* Good job! Now do it again!

Hilde: Okay! *Does it again just like Alphonse showed, slowly making the nail go in deeper till it can't anymore.* I did it! Look, daddy!

Rufus: There you go. *He smiles at Hilde before going back to his side to work.* What kind of chickens do you think you would want, Hilde?

Hilde: Hm..Ones that lay eggs! And have the cute baby chicks that are fluffy! *Sticks her tongue out as she concentrates on her work, starting on the next nail.*

Rufus: What about ducks?

Hilde: Ones that lay golden eggs! So we can sell them and you can stay home more, daddy! Oww! *Cries out as the hammer hits her thumb, it begins to throb in pain.* Daddy!

Alphonse: I'm sorry, Father! I looked away for a second, I didn't.. I'm sorry! *Takes the hammer from Hilde, petting her head to try and calm her.*

Rufus: It was an accident. Come here Hilde...Let me kiss your finger.

Hilde: *Sniffs as she walks over to her Father, big puppy tears roll down her cheeks as she hides her face in his chest.* It hurts, daddy! Make it stop.

Rufus: Let me kiss it, and all the pain will go away. *He examines Hilde's finger, seeing that she has only bruised it.*

Hilde: R-really? *Hiccups a sob as her daddy looks at her throbbing thumb, wraps her other arm around Rufus for comfort. Little sobs escapes as she wipes her face off on Rufus's shirt.*

Rufus: Really, Hilde. All you did was bruise it. *He kisses Hilde's finger to "heal" it.*

Hilde: It hurt.. I-I won't have to have it cut off? *Sniffs a few more times before she starts to calm down.* It..it feels better daddy! You're magic! *Looks in awe at Rufus.*

Rufus: Cut it off? *He chuckles softly.* No, Hilde, dear. You'll be fine.

Hilde: I will be now, you kissed it and made the pain go away! *Hugs Rufus tightly, kissing his sweaty chest. Her nose wiggles at the scent.* You smell daddy!

Alphonse: *Chuckles softly before he goes back to work.* I'm almost finished over here, Father.

Rufus: I've been working outside all day, Hilde. How would you smell if you worked outside all day like I did today?

Hilde: I'm a girl, Mommy says girls don't smell! *Giggles as she keeps nuzzling Rufus.* I can't wait to get our new pets, Daddy! I'll feed them everyday!

Alphonse: *Laughs at Hilde's reaction, quickly finishes his side of the coop before he moves to help his Father with his side.* (I..want everyday to be like this, when we're a family.)

Rufus: I know you will...And we have to make sure the animals have water and bedding.

Hilde: I know, Alphonse and I will help take care of them! *Smiles at Rufus, giggles before she lets Rufus go and walks behind him. Jumps onto his back and giggles madly.* I captured a daddy!

Rufus: Oh, you caught me! Help me, Alphonse.

Alphonse: No can do, Sir! I'm a double agent! *Drops his hammer and grabs on tightly to the front of Rufus, keeping him still.* We got him, agent Princess!

Rufus: You two have me! I give up. *He moves his strong legs, dragging Alphonse along the ground.*

Hilde: *Giggles madly as she wraps her legs around Rufus's waist, burying his face in his hair.* Then..you must give us candy!

Alphonse: *Laughs as he's dragged on the ground, keeps holding onto Rufus.* Yes, chocolates and butterscotch!

Rufus: I don't think I have any butterscotch, but I think I have some toffee inside. You both look hungry. We can head inside for lunch, then we can have candy.

Hilde: Yeah, I'm hungry daddy! Will you be eating with us? *Keeps holding onto Rufus, not wanting to let him go.*

Alphonse: That sounds good! I think the coop is mostly finished! I'm going to run in and clean up a bit, Father.. *Gets up off the ground and dusts himself off before he runs into the house.*

Rufus: Yes, I'll eat with you. I have to cook as well. I hope you don't mind eating burnt eggs. *He carries Hilde inside.* Go and clean up, Hilde. I will take a few minutes myself.

Hilde: Yay! I'm so happy, Daddy! *Hugs Rufus tightly before she lets go.* Okay, I'll be right back daddy! *Blows Rufus a kiss before she runs upstairs.*

Rufus smiles at his daughter and decides to turn on the radio. He listens to upbeat big band style music as he washes his face in the sink in the kitchen.

Alphonse walks out of his room in fresh clean cloths and walks downstairs to the kitchen, giggles softly at the sight of his Father at the sink.

Alphonse: Can I help you, Father? I can get the eggs out..

Rufus: Would you please?

Alphonse: Of course! Mother said if I want to get a girl, I should know how to make at least one meal.. *Walks over and gets out the brown eggs and some freshly made butter.*

Rufus: Thank you, Alphonse. I need a skillet aswell...

Alphonse: You're welcome, Father. *Bends over and pulls out a skillet from under the sink, walks it back over to Rufus.* Will this one work?

Rufus: That will work. Is Hilde still upstairs?

Alphonse: Yeah, she was picking out what to wear. Girls are so weird! *Walks over and gives Rufus the skillet.* Anything else?

After a few minutes, Hilde walks down in a light purple dress she got from Zechs weeks before. Happily skips over to her Father and Alphonse.

Hilde: Is it ready yet? I'm hungry!

Rufus: It's not ready yet, I was waiting for you, Hilde...

Hilde: I couldn't decide what to wear, daddy! I wanted to look pretty! *Spins around, making her dress raise in the air.*

Alphonse: You look nice, Hilde! Isn't that the dress Uncle Zechs gave you? *Smiles at his little sister.*

Rufus: You look pretty all of the time, Hilde. *He places the skillet on top of the stove and lights the fire below.* Do you two know how to crack an egg?

They both shake their heads no, getting on either side of Rufus to watch him cook.

Hilde: *Blushes light, playing with the end of her dress as she pays attention.* It won't hurt the baby chicken inside it?

Alphonse: No, these ones don't have the babies in them. They're the ones for eating!

Rufus: That's right...We won't hurt any baby chickens today.

Hilde: Good! *Picks up an eggs and looks at it, then the skillet.* Do I just hit it against the skillet?

Alphonse: No, then you'll get the shell in the eggs and burn yourself! Here, I've seen Mother do it sometimes.. *Grabs an egg and hits it gently against the side if the counter to make a crack before he holds it over the skillet and breaks it in two.*

Rufus: Wait, Alphonse. You need to put butter in the skillet first, or the egg will stick to the pan. *He quickly puts a spoonful of butter in the pan and moves the raw egg over the melting butter.*

Alphonse: Oh, I'm sorry Father.. *Moves out of the way so Hilde can put her egg in.*

Rufus: It's alright, it's a learning experience. Are you ready, Hilde?

Hilde: You did good, Alphonse! And yes, Daddy! I can do it! *Sticks out her tongue as she carefully hits the egg against the counter, pouting when it only cracks a little.*

Rufus: You have to hit it harder. Go ahead, and hit it again. You can do it, Hilde.

Hilde: Okay.. *Takes a deep breath before she hits it again, quickly holding it over the skillet as the yolk falls out.* I did it, Daddy! Look! I did it!

Rufus: Yes, good work. And...where's Else? I thought she would be down here for lunch.

Alphonse: She's up in her room pouting and writing letters to her friends, she doesn't want to clean so she locked herself in there. *Watches as the eggs cook, moves back as the butter pops.*

Rufus: Can you make sure she's not hungry, Alphonse? I'll make an egg for her if she wants.

Alphonse: Yes, Father! *Playfully pats Hilde's head before he walks out of the kitchen.*

Hilde: She's be avoiding me.. *Looks down, playing with her dress.* She blames me for getting in trouble.

Rufus: Ignore her...She'll get over it soon enough.

Hilde: Alright, daddy. *Hugs Rufus's long legs as she waits for food, wishing Denzel was here with her.* (I miss him, I want to play Prince and Princess again! I want to plan our wedding!)

Rufus: Are you excited for looking at animals today?

Hilde: Yes! I'm very excited, I can't wait to see all the baby animals! *Jumps excitedly, her blue eyes filled with happiness.*

Rufus: Stand back, Hilde. I don't want you to get burned. *He turns the eggs over in the skillet so they can cook evenly.*

Hilde: Okay! *Stands back and walks over to her chair, sitting down in it as she waits for her meal.*

Alphonse walks down a minute later, Else following behind him with red eyes from pouting all day in her room.

Rufus: What do you want to eat, Else?

Else: Eggs are fine, with buttered bread. *Sniffs slightly as she sits down in her chair.* Where's Mom?

Rufus: She met with some friends. Do you want your bread toasted?

Else: Yes, of course. With some jam on it as well.

Hilde: I don't want mine toasted, Daddy! Just butter on it! *Kicks her legs under her chair, humming to herself.*

Alphonse: Toasted and butter, please Father.

Rufus: Alright... *He takes off Hilde's and Alphonse's eggs and cracks an egg for Else. He turns the fire up high to finish Else's egg quickly. Once Else's egg is cooked, he places two pieces of bread with butter on the skillet to brown and crisp.* Everything is coming right up... *He places a stick of butter on the table before his children and gives Hilde a piece of soft wheat bread.*

Alphonse: It smells really good, dad!

Hilde: Thank you, daddy! *Happily begins to butter her bread as she waits for her eggs.*

Else: *Looks at her nails as she waits for food, still pouting.* (I want Mom to come back home, Dad's ignoring me!)

Rufus: Here come the eggs... *He places the eggs on the table along with the freshly toasted bread along with a jar of jam for Else.* Cheer up, Else.

Hilde: Thank you, daddy! They look so good! *Begins to dig into her food, humming in happiness.*

Else: *Opens the jar of jam and begin to spread it on her toast, taking a bite out of it.* When is Mom coming home? She said we would go out today.

Rufus: I don't know, Else... *He sits down at the table with his children.* We can have fun here without your mother. Why don't you come outside with us?

Alphonse: Yeah, we're having fun out there!

Else: There's nothing fun about getting dirty and doing a servants work, but I guess I could come out and read the book I got..

Hilde: It is fun! Alphonse and I played in the dirt and attacked daddy, we defeated him!

Alphonse: You're missing out, Else...There's nothing better than rolling in the dirt!

Else: You sound like you're a pig, Alphonse! If you want to get a girl, you'll have to grow up! *Finishes her toast and begins to eat her egg, shaking her head out Hilde.* That's not how a lady eats!

Hilde: Huh? *Looks up shyly from piling her egg onto the bread and folding it over into a sandwich.*

Alphonse: *He chuckles and snorts like a pig as he chews his food. He bumps his nose into Else's shoulder.* I'm a pig, Else!

Else: Uh! Dad! Make him stop, he's getting egg on my dress! *Tries to shove Alphonse away, looking in disgust at the egg on her dress.*

Hilde: *Giggles and begins to snort along with Alphonse.*

Rufus: Please, settle down Alphonse. *He hides his smile behind his folded hands, getting joy from watching his children have fun without their mother's strict table rules.*

Alphonse: Sorry, Father.. *Still laughs along with Hilde, smiling at her as they eat.* Can we go chose the animals after we eat?

Hilde: Yeah! Can we, daddy? I want to get a goose that lays golden eggs! *Smiles brightly as she finishes her meal.*

Else: Dummy, there's no such thing as a goose that lays golden eggs, that's just a story in your dumb fairytales you are obsessed with!

Rufus: Else... *He scowls at Else, letting her know he means business.*

Else: But it's true, she's always in those dumb fairytale worlds. *Huffs, crossing her arms as she pouts.*

Hilde: What's wrong with my fairytales? They teach lessons too! Not to be mean to others, the ones who do are the ones who die or get turned into toads! You're going to be turned into one if you keep being mean, by my prince!

Else: Who is your prince? Your retarded Jude?

Rufus: Else, I don't want to hear that language from you.

Hilde: He..he's not a retard..! You're just being really mean! *Sniffs as she wipes her eyes.*

Else: It's true, she loves that..that thing!

Alphonse: You're just jealous no guys like you, even the Jude ones! *Sticks his tongue out.*

Rufus: That's enough! Please...

All three children look down in sadness, not liking to anger their Father.

Hilde: I'm sorry, daddy.. *Sniffs as she rubs her nose.*

Alphonse: Sorry, Father.. We didn't mean to..

Else: Sorry, dad.. Can I go get my book?

Rufus: Yes you may get your book, Else...

Else: Thank you, dad.. *Stands up and walks out of the room, leaving her plate on the table.*

Rufus: Wait, Else...Put your plate in the sink please.

Else: Ugh, okay.. *Huffs softly as she walks back and grabs her plate, placing it in the sink before she goes back to her room.*

Alphonse: She's gotten really annoying, Father.

Rufus: Thank you, Else...and I know, Alphonse. I understand.

Hilde: C-can..we go see the animals now, daddy? *Looks up, her eyes filled with tears that haven't fallen.*

Alphonse: Yeah! Can we? *Looks excitedly at Rufus.*

Rufus: Yes, but first...do you two remember what I promised you after lunch?

Hilde: Hmm...Oh! Candy! *Shakes excitedly in her chair, smacking her lips together.*

Alphonse: I'll put the plates in the sink! *Gathers his and Hilde's plate, placing them in the sink.*

Rufus: That's right, I promised toffee. *He smiles at Hilde and Alphonse before getting up from his seat to get two pieces of toffee from the candy tin in the living room.*

Both kids run into the living room, excited for their candy.

Hilde: Thank you, daddy! *Happily pops the candy into her mouth, bouncing in her spot.*

Alphonse: Thank you, Father! *Unwraps the candy and pops it in his mouth and begins to suck on it.*

Rufus: Now we're ready to go look at animals.

Hilde: Yay! *Jumps excitedly gives Rufus a running hug.* Lets go now, daddy!

Alphonse: Do you want me to get Else, Father?

Rufus: Yes, please. She needs to come with us. You can bring a piece of candy to her as well.

Alphonse: Okay, Father! *Grabs a piece of candy before he runs out of the room and up the stairs to Else's room.*

Hilde: Can you carry me, daddy? *Holds her arms up.*

Rufus: Yes, but ugh...I need help picking you up! *He jokes with Hilde, pretending to struggle with picking her up.*

Hilde: I'm a big girl now, daddy! You'll have to grow more muscles! *Giggles as she jumps up a bit so Rufus can hold her.*

Rufus: Yes, you are. *He picks Hilde up and carries her close to his chest.*

Hilde: But I'm still your baby girl? *Snuggles her face into Rufus's shoulder, loving the comfort she gets from her father. Wraps her arms tightly around him as they walk.* Will you always hold me?

Rufus: Always... *He presses his finger gently against Hilde's button nose.*

Hilde: *Goes cross-eyed as she watches Rufus's finger, giggles loudly as she her nose with her hand.* You're silly, daddy! *Kisses him on the cheek, smiling brightly at him.* I love you, daddy!

Rufus: I love you too, and I can tell you're excited.

Hilde: I am! I've always wanted to have a pet, daddy! Thank you so much! *Hugs Rufus tightly, kissing his cheek again.*

Alphonse: We're ready, Father! Else was doing her hair, that's why it took so long.

Rufus: Okay...Are we all ready to leave?

Hilde: Yes, daddy! *Smiles happily at him, wiggling excitedly in his arms.*

Else: I'm ready...if I have to go!

Alphonse: Yes, Father! Can I drive? *Asks with a smile.*

Rufus: You can drive...Just take it slow because we're going out into the country. I know of a few farms selling animals now.

Alphonse: Yes! *Jumps up and down before he runs to the car, excited to drive again.* And I will, you can sit next to me.

Hilde: When can I drive, daddy? Alphonse and Else always get to! *Pouts cutely, sticking out her lower lip.*

Rufus: You can when you're tall enough to reach the pedals. In...a couple of years.

Else: You'll be too scared to drive, Hilde. You'd crash!

Hilde: No, I won't! I'm not scared of everything, I'm a big girl now!

Alphonse: You crashed your first time, Else! Mother told me! *Smirks back at her.*

Else: I did...I did not crash! I just...the tree jumped out in front of me!

Alphonse: Trees are rooted to the ground, Else! *Laughs as he gets into the car and starts it.*

Hilde: *Giggles at Else and Alphonse.* They move in my stories! But you called them dumb, maybe that's why it moved! You were mean to it!

Rufus chuckles and hands his keys to Alphonse. Alphonse unlocks the doors to Rufus's late 1930's BMW; a cloudy silver, masterpiece of a vehicle.

Hilde: Eee! I'm so happy, daddy! I love to go on rides in the car! *Hops in the back seat, making sure she's behind Rufus.*

Alphonse: Me too, Hilde! I've missed driving! *Starts the car, a large grin covers his face.*

Else: Don't drive fast, Alphonse. You'll make us all sick. *She sits in the back seat next to Hilde and behind Alphonse.*

Alphonse: Yeah, I know. Last time Hilde puked on me, I'm not going to let it again! *Waits till Rufus gets in before he pulls out of the driveway.*

Hilde: It wasn't my fault! *Blushes, looking down.* I.. was scared and there was alot of bumps!

Rufus: It's alright Hilde. Sometimes your mother gets car sick. You get that from her...

Alphonse: I'll be careful, Hilde. I promise! *Smiles back at her as he turns onto the road.* South, right Father?

Rufus: That's right... To the Lehmann's farm.

Hilde: Oh! The place with the cute kitties! I love that farm, daddy! *Wiggles in her seat.* You hear that, Else! We're going to see the kitties!

Else: Really? I remember too. Can we get some kittens instead of chickens and ducks?

Hilde: Oh, yes! I told Mommy I wanted one! A cute pure white one, daddy!

Alphonse: But we already made the coop!

Rufus: We'll see. We may not buy anything this time, because we're only going to look. I bet Herr Lehmann remembers all of you...

Hilde: Aww! *Pouts.* Okay, daddy... We can still play with them, Else! *Smiles at her older sister, still loving her even if she's mean.*

Alphonse: You would always take us there to play in his pond, Father!

Else: Don't they have a market open this time of year, dad?

Rufus: Yes, and I may look at their fresh food aswell...It's better to buy food straight from the farm than getting it from the store.

Alphonse: I can help you with that, Father.. As the girls play with the animals..

Hilde: Can we get apples, daddy?

Rufus: We'll have to see what they have Hilde. Some apples are seasonal. Would you like something else if they don't have apples?

Hilde: Hmm...I want Rowan berries! *Giggles as she waves to the people walking on the side of the road.*

Alphonse: Mm, those sound good! *Slows down as they get to the hills.*

Else: I like...red gooseberries. Rowan berries are okay...

Hilde: Mmm! I want those, daddy! Lots of gooseberries! *Shakes in excitement, licking her lips at the thought of eating one.* Are we there yet, daddy?

Rufus: Almost there...Do you remember their black currant honey?

Hilde: Is that the stuff you gave me after I went to the doctor's? And he gave me that owie shot in my rear! I loved it!

Rufus: That's right...It was your "feel better" treat.

Alphonse: (I remember when he would do that for me.. He'd stay by my bed all night. I want to be like him when I grow up!) *Smiles as he drives.*

Hilde: I like when you do that! Can we have it for breakfast tomorrow?

Else: Yes, with the gooseberries? And...mother's fresh bread?

Alphonse: And fresh milk? We could buy some there! *Looks over at Rufus for a second before he looks back at the road.*

Rufus: Yes, we can have all of those things. I'm looking forward to this...

Hilde: Me too! Mommy will be so happy with everything we bring home! *Leans against Else, the car ride making her fall asleep.*

Rufus: Yes, I think she will be. *He looks back at Hilde and notices her falling asleep.*

Alphonse: I remember you would do this to but her to sleep a few years ago, Father. *Smiles, remembering laying in the back with her.*

Hilde: *Itches her stomach before she nuzzles her face into Else's arm, falling into a deep sleep.*

Else: Oh, why does she have to sleep on me?

Alphonse: Oh, she's not killing you! She doesn't even drool anymore and we're almost there.

Fifteen minutes later, they arrive at the Lehmann's farm. Alphonse shuts off the car before he opens the door getting out so Else can get out as well, making Hilde fall onto the seat and waking her up.

Hilde: Uhm..Are..we there, daddy? *Sits up groggily, rubbing her eyes.*

Rufus: We're here, are you awake enough to join us?

Hilde: I..don't know.. Can you carry me, daddy? *Scoots to the edge of the seat and holds her arms out for Rufus, sleep still feeling her eyes.*

Rufus: I can carry you. *He lifts Hilde up and closes the car door.* (She won't stay sleepy for long, once she sees the animals...)

Hilde: *Snuggles into Rufus's neck, wrapping her little arms around his neck.* You were in my dream, daddy.. And so was Uncle Zechs. *Yawns softly.*

Rufus: What happened in your dream, Hilde?

Hilde: We went on a trip.. On the sea, daddy! You were holding me and Uncle Zechs had his arms around you, you had a big smile on your face daddy!

Rufus: What? (Could she have seen us together?)

Hilde: We were on a trip, daddy! You and Uncle Zechs were very happy, I want you to be happy daddy! *Hugs Rufus tightly, nuzzling him.* And Uncle Zechs makes you happy!

Rufus: Shh... (I wish...He doesn't make me happy anymore.)

Hilde: I..I'm sorry, daddy.. I thought it was a good dream. *Looks down, worried she upset him.*

Rufus: Yes...but Zechs and I...aren't friends anymore.

Hilde: W-what? But..he's Uncle Z-zechs! *Sniffs, her eyes tearing up.* It's..all my fault! I'm sorry, daddy! Please be friends again!

Rufus: *He sighs, remembering how much he loved Zechs, and knowing that he misses Zechs.* I can't say that we will, right now...

Hilde: Oh.. I miss Uncle Zechs.. *Sniffs and hides her face.* I'm sorry for making you fight..

Rufus: *He sighs, remembering how much he loved Zechs, and knowing that he misses Zechs.* I can't say that we will, right now...

Hilde: Oh.. I miss Uncle Zechs.. *Sniffs and hides her face.* I'm sorry for making you fight..

Rufus: (It wasn't meant to be I guess...) It's alright...Come on, let's catch up to your brother and sister.

Hilde: Alright, Daddy. I love you, sorry my dream upset you.. *Hugs Rufus tightly, not wanting to let go.*

Alphonse: Father! Come over here! *Waves Rufus over to the barn,*

Rufus: We're coming, Alphonse. *He carries Hilde to where Alphonse is waving.*

Alphonse: Look, some of his cows had babies! Look Hilde! *Grabs Hilde's hand to show her.*

Hilde: Ohh! Looky, daddy! It's so cute, I want one! Can we have a cow instead of ducks and chickens? *Wiggles happily in Rufus's arms.*

Rufus: How would we take a calf home, my dear?

Hilde: I'll..I'll ride it home! Like the horses you road when you were Alphonse age! *Wiggles in Rufus's arms, wanting down so she can see the animals closer.*

Alphonse: Here, I got her Father! *Reaches his arms up to take Hilde from Rufus.*

Rufus: Thank you Alphonse. *He chuckles as he sees Hilde's excitement.*

Hilde: *Lets Alphonse take her and set her down on the ground, runs up to the fence and stares at the baby cows in awe.* Aww! Look, that one's drinking milk from it's mommy's..*Cocks her head at them.* Does that Mommy cow have a Peepee?

Rufus: No...That is her breasts, Hilde. That's where the milk is made.

Hilde: Breasts? Oh, like Mommy has! I drank from them when I was a baby like the baby cow! *Giggles as she watches the baby and it's mother.*

Alphonse: *Laughs at Hilde, shaking his head.* You're silly, Hilde!

Rufus: It's true, Hilde...That's how mothers nurse their babies.

Hilde: *Watches the baby cow, jumps excitedly when another walks up to her and sniffs her before it licks her face through a hole in the fence.* Hehe, it kissed me daddy!

Rufus: I see, that Hilde. Will you kiss the calf back?

Hilde: It's name is Macon! *Kisses the cow on the snout, giggling as it licks it's nose after.* It likes me, daddy!

Alphonse: You have a way with animals, Hilde! Look, the kittens are coming here! I think the smell the milk!

Rufus: Oh, don't even get Hilde started with the kittens. *He smiles at his children.*

Hilde: Kittens! *Runs over to the kittens excitedly, picking up a the smallest kitten, which happens to be pure white.* Oh, I love her!

Rufus: If you had a kitten, what would you name her?

Hilde: Snow White, she's what I always wanted! Look at her, daddy! *Holds up the small kitten, but it starts to cry in fear and she quickly pulls it back to her chest to comfort it.* I'm sorry, Snow White.

Rufus: Oh, she's a scared little kitten. Maybe she wants her mother?

Hilde: But..I want to play with her and give her love! And look, she's stopped crying and she's making purring noises!

Rufus: Is she now? Is that the cat you want, Hilde?

Hilde: Yes, I want her daddy! She's perfect and sweet and and so small like me! *Pets the kitten, cooing at it.*

Rufus: We'll get a kitten for you for your birthday...

Hilde: But I want this one! I want Snow White, daddy! *Hugs Snow White, kissing her little pink nose as it lets out little mews.*

Rufus: I promise I'll get Snow White for you...She's too young to take away from her mother right now.

Hilde: She'll be old enough by my birthday? I love her, daddy! But I understand, I wouldn't want to be taken for you or mommy! *Looks down at the little kitten who has fallen asleep in her arms.* Will she hate me for taking her away?

Rufus: I believe she will be old enough. Snow White still needs her mommy to take care of her, she needs to nurse and still learn how to be a cat.

Hilde: But I can play with her today, daddy? I'll take her back to her Mommy so she can eat! *Nuzzles sleeping Snow White.*

Rufus: You can play with her, but be careful Hilde. Snow White is delicate.

Hilde: I know.. She's just like me, daddy! I was sick at her age, wasn't I?

Rufus: You were very sick...We almost lost you.

Hilde: Lost? ...You mean I would of join Nana with the angels? *Looks up sadly at Rufus.*

Rufus: Yes, that almost happened to you.

Hilde: Oh, I'm glad I didn't daddy! I would of missed you! *Runs over and hugs Rufus's legs, making sure to be careful of Snow White.* I love you, daddy!

Rufus: I love you too, let's go look at some other animals...*He rubs Hilde's head lovingly.*

Hilde: Okay! I'll let Snow White go back to her Mommy! *Lets Snow White down and smiles when the Mother cat come running at it's babies cries.* Can I hold your hand, daddy?

Rufus: Always. *He extends his hand for Hilde to hold.*

Hilde: *Smiles brightly at Rufus, holding his hand as they walk.* Where did Else go?

Rufus: I'm not sure where she went...

Hilde: *Looks around the farm.* There she is, daddy! She's talking to that boy over there and playing with her hair!

Rufus: *He smirks softly.* I think we'll leave her alone for now...We'll embarrass her.

Hilde: Oh! (She likes him! He's her Denzel!) *Giggles as she walks with Rufus, looking at all the animals.* Oh! Looky Daddy, it's little piggy's!

Rufus: Aren't they sweet? *He smiles as one piglet squeals from being pushes away from its mother's nipple by a sibling.*

Hilde: They all want more milk from mommy! *Giggles as they watch the babies.* Did we fight like that for milk?

Rufus: No, you all were old enough that you didn't need to fight for milk like the animals here...

Hilde: Ohhhh! *Waves bye to the pig before they keep walking, making their arms swing as she hums.* Where's the gooses and chickens?

Rufus: I think they're outside. Do you want to see them?

Hilde: Yeah! We need to pick out what ones to take home, daddy!

Rufus takes Hilde outside into the pastures of the farm. Alphonse is outside, sitting in the grass while watching a group of ducks waddle by.

Hilde: Alphonse! You're here! *Runs over to Alphonse, giggling as he jumps on his back.* Daddy and I saw baby pigs!

Alphonse: Really? I like these ducks better. *He picks a few blades of grass and holds out the grass for the ducks to eat. He giggles as the ducks flock to his hand for food.*

Hilde: Look! That's ones shaking it's butt feathers! *Giggles as she sits down next to Alphonse, picking some grass for herself to feed them.*

Alphonse: It's fluffing itself. *He helps Hilde hold out her hand to feed the ducks.*

Hilde: He's silly! *Giggles as a duck begins to eat from her hands, looks over at Alphonse with a large smile.* He likes me! Do you see him, daddy? I think he wants to come home with us!

Alphonse: (I think she'd take every animal home if she could!) *Smiles at his sister, getting more grass for her to feed.*

Rufus: I see that. If we take him, we have to take his mate too. Ducks mate for life. *He smiles at Hilde's joy for animals.*

Hilde: Of course! I wouldn't want him to leave his wife! And they can have lots of little baby ducks I can play with! *Smiles at the duck and quacks a it.* Do you wanna come home with us? You can bring your wife!

The duck waddles slightly, looking at Hilde in curiosity before letting out a small quack. He flutters his wings and primps his feathers.

Hilde: Hm..I will call you Landric! Do you like that name, Landric? *Reaches out to try and pet him.*

Rufus: Be careful, Hilde. Landric doesn't know you yet, be slow and gentle.

Hilde: I know, daddy! *Smiles at Landric before she carefully pets his back, giggling at the feeling of him.* He's so soft, feel Alphonse!

Alphonse: Alright! *Carefully reaches out to pet Landric and quickly pulls back as the duck nips at him.* Ah! He bit me!

Hilde: Landric! That's bad, a very bad duck! This is Alphonse, my brother and he's nice and will live with you! *Points her finger at Landric like a Mother at her child.*

Alphonse: You better watch out, or he'll bite your finger, Hilde! *He blows on his red, slightly swollen finger to soothe it.*

Hilde: No, he won't! He knows if he does I'll hit his cute little bottom! *Huffs at Landric before she pets his back again.* Landric is sorry he bit you, Alphonse!

Alphonse: I'm sure he's sorry. *He sticks out his tongue at Hilde and frowns as he notices his finger is bleeding.*

Hilde: Oh Alphonse! *Runs over Alphonse and kisses his finger before patting it softly.* Owie, owie go away!

Alphonse: It's okay...It's just a little blood.

Hilde: No, blood means owie! *Sniffs as tears fill her eyes.* We don't have to take Landric home, I don't want my brother to be hurt!

Alphonse: No, it's really alright. It's not that bad, but we can look at other ducks together if you want!

Hilde: Okay! Lets go, brother! *Happily takes Alphonse hand and skips with him to the other ducks.* Oh, looky there! It's golden ducks, look! *Points to a couple of tan and gold colored ducks.* I want them!

Alphonse: Yeah, they're cool! They don't look like they want to bite me.

Hilde: I want them, daddy! Can we take them home? *Giggles as she goes running to the ducks, giggling loudly as she quacks at them.*

Rufus: Do you want them? *He smiles as he watches Hilde have fun with the ducks.*

Alphonse: Yeah, I like them they're not attacking her and they seem well mannered.. And they make her happy, look at her Father.. *Smiles softly at the sight of his little sister.*

Rufus: I like them as well. *He walks towards where Hilde is playing with the ducks.* They're lovely animals.

Alphonse: They are and very nice.. I think they'll be nice at home! *Smiles at his father.*

Hilde: Alphonse! Come play with me, they're really nice!

Alphonse: Coming, Hilde! *Chuckles as he runs after Hilde, chasing her around with the ducks.*

Hilde: Look! They're talking to me. *She quacks at the ducks and giggles as they respond back.*

Alphonse: You have a way with them! I'll talk to them too! *Quacks along with Hilde, laughing along with Hilde.*

Hilde: You're silly, Alphonse! *She giggles at Alphonse and crouches down to the level of all the ducks.*

Alphonse: So are you, Hilde! *Keeps quacking and begins to move his arms like wings.*

Hilde: At least I don't think I'm a duck like you!

Alphonse: They like it, look! *Keeps quacking, the ducks circle him wanting to know what the strange creature is doing.*

Hilde: No, they think you're weird, Alphonse. *She picks up one golden colored duck and closes her eyes as the duck's wings flutter in her face before calming down.* Look!

Alphonse: They're much nicer then the others! *Walks over and carefully pets the duck in Hilde's arms.*

Hilde: Yes they are... *She notices another duck at her feet with brighter, more vibrant feathers staring up at the duck in Hilde's arms.* That must be her husband, Alphonse!

Alphonse: *Picks up the male duck, laughing as it reaches it's long neck out to preen his wife's feathers.* Lets show them to Father, I think we found our two.

After an hour or two they leave the farm with two ducks and two chickens for their home. Rufus smiles as he drives home, all his children having fallen asleep from the excitement.