Deanna Biloski

Spring had arrived, bringing with it the promise of new beginnings and magical transformations. The vibrant colors of flowers burst forth, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of blossoms. Alice, with her bottle-thick glasses and infectious enthusiasm, found herself in Elowen’s garden, ready to lend a hand.

Tomte, the diligent garden gnome with a pointed hat and a perpetually busy demeanor, was bustling about, tending to the whimsical plants that Elowen had cultivated over the years. As Alice joined him, her eyes widened with wonder at the peculiar flora that adorned the garden.

“Hello, Tomte! What are we doing today?” Alice chirped, her blonde pigtails bouncing with every step.

Tomte, with a twinkle in his eye, gestured toward the rows of soil that awaited their attention. “We’re getting the garden ready for spring, my dear. It’s a magical time, you know!”

As they worked side by side, Alice listened eagerly as Tomte shared tales of the enchanted blossoms and plants. The garden came alive with bursts of color, responding to Tomte’s care and Alice’s curiosity. The air buzzed with the anticipation of new growth and the promise of hidden wonders.

Suddenly, a rustling sound caught their attention. In a corner of the garden, behind a bush adorned with tiny bells, they discovered a peculiar creature. This bunny-chicken hybrid, with soft fur and feathers, was nibbling on a carrot.

“Oh, look at this delightful creature! What is it, Tomte?” Alice exclaimed, her eyes widening with excitement.

Tomte chuckled, “Ah, that’s a bunken, my dear. A magical being that lays chocolate eggs. Quite rare, you see.”

Alice’s eyes sparkled with delight. “Chocolate eggs? How marvelous! Can I keep it?”

Tomte scratched his beard, considering. “Well, my dear, bunkens are best left to roam freely. But I promise to take good care of this one. You’re welcome to visit whenever you like and share in the chocolate egg festivities.”

Alice beamed, understanding the responsibility that came with the magical creature. “Thank you, Tomte! I’ll visit often, and we can enjoy the chocolate eggs together.”

With the bunken happily nibbling on its carrot, and the garden coming alive with spring’s magic, Alice and Tomte continued their work. The air was filled with laughter and the sweet scent of flowers as they tended to the peculiar garden, creating a haven where the ordinary and the extraordinary coexisted in perfect harmony.