Summary: Sequel to βLessons in Humilityβ. While running maintenance on Vee, Brightney connects a wire into the wrong place by accident, making Veeβs sensitivity heighten in ways she didnβt expect. With new ticklishness, Vee has to spend a whole day realizing her advantage over other Toons isnβt there anymore, while Brightney tries to find a way to fix it.
(A/N: I know what I said. Time and Place will be uploaded next, and that will count as my 50 followers special. But I got this done first, and something very special is coming with this! Enjoy!)
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βHonestly, Sprout should be thanking me, having his baking segment on my gameshow was genius! But he prefers to stay in his kitchen!β
Vee sighed as she told her story. She was getting her routine check up with Brightney, and trying to distract herself. She wasnβt afraid of her maintenance, but Vee was just antsy to be done.
βBrightney, I hate to bug you, but are you almost done?β Vee sighed. βI have a gameshow today, and I still need to get things set up. I would have done it before this, but you insisted this was more important.β
βIt is more important, Vee.β Brightney said as she adjusted two of Veeβs wires. βRunning these diagnostics makes sure youβre functioning right. So you donβt glitch. Remember what happened last time?β
Vee slowly nodded as she remembered. That was not a good day.
βI get your point.β Vee shrugged. βBut I still need to hurry.β
βDonβt worry, Iβm almost done.β
Brightney then plugged one last wire into Veeβs frame, and finished.
βThere we go, good as new.β Brightney adjust her glasses.
For a moment, Vee felt⦠a little different.
βThanks, Brightney.β Vee slowly stood up. βIs it good for me to walk?β
βYes, you should be alright.β Brightney put her computer away. βBut if anything feels off, I can check it out again.β
Vee nodded, and walked out of Brightneyβs room.
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As Vee walked to her backstage area, she felt a littleβ¦ strange. She felt it before, but it felt especially prominent now that she was moving. She tried to ignore it as she moved boxes. Shelly was supposed to be here for thatβ¦
Shelly piped up as she rushed over to Vee from a different door in the backstage area. Vee smiled as the ammonite drew close to help.
βNice to see you, Shelly. I need you to help me move these boxes..β Vee told her. Shelly nodded.
βSure thing, Vee! Iβm happy to help!β
The television and ammonite spent a couple hours organizing boxes, and getting everything ready for the game show. However, Vee started to slow down. She felt so odd, almost itchy. But she felt as if she tended to that itchiness, sheβd startβ¦ laughing.
βWhy do I feel soβ¦ sensitive?β Vee huffed as she paused to take a break.
βVee? Are you alright?β Shelly paused as well to check on Vee.
βIβmβ¦ fine.β Vee tried to assure the ammonite.
Shelly gently placed a hand on Veeβs shoulder to try and comfort herβ¦
Only for Vee to let out a yelp. Shelly pulled her hand back as if it were burned.
βVee! Did I hurt you?β Shelly asked, now more worried than ever.
βNo! No, you didnβtβ¦β Vee rubbed where Shelly touched her.
βI just feel so weirdβ¦ like I have static just underneath my skin. Everything I touch feels like a light zap to my hands, and every step I take feels like Iβm walking onβ¦ feathersβ¦.β Vee trailed off, realizing what was going on.
It took a moment for Shelly to realize it, but it clicked for her as well.
βNo way!β Shelly said excitedly. βVee, youβre feeling ticklish!β
Veeβs eyes widened. It wasnβt like she wasnβt ticklish before. All Toons were ticklish, no matter how much some tried to deny it. However, Vee was only ticklish in very specific places, and even then she didnβt react much. But this felt completely different from the times the other Toons tried tickling her. This timeβ¦ it felt a lot more intense.
βHow can you be sure?β Vee asked.
βOnly one way to find out!β Shelly sang. She gently squeezed Veeβs sides.
A loud, startled laugh came from Veeβs frame. Both Toons froze.
βThatβs what it feels like? I thought you guys were exaggerating!β Vee cried.
βWhy would we do that?β Shelly giggled. βThis is great! Now you know what it feels like to be us! Oh my goodness, if the other Toons heard about this, theyβd lose it!β
Shelly laughed at the thought of the other Toons learning about this, but Vee shivered. Vee was known for being a good tickler, going after other Toons, in and out of her game show. And the idea of them finding this out, and getting their revengeβ¦
Shelly glanced away for a moment, but when she looked back up, Vee was gone.
βVee?β Shelly called. βWhere did you go?β
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Vee had rushed back to Brightneyβs room, and quickly explained what was going on to the other Toon. Brightney was quick to get her equipment out, and run more diagnostics. It was a struggle, considering Vee squirmed and laughed a lot more than she would have at these checks, but it was important.
Finally, Brightney checked the wires that were in Veeβs back, and she realized what was going on.
βOh, I see the problem.β Brightney said with a flashlight in her mouth.
βWhat? Am I malfunctioning?β Vee asked, trying to hold herself still. Brightney took out the flashlight from her mouth to talk.
βIt was my fault. I confused two wires with each other, and plugged them into the wrong spotsβ¦ And your movement tangled them.β
Veeβs heart sank. Of all the things to happen before a gameshow, this? Having her wires tangled, and doing that made her extra sensitive?
βWellβ¦ can you fix it? You could just put the wires back. I can handle it for a bit.β Vee shivered.
βItβs not that simple, Vee.β Brightney stated. βPlugging them into different spots altered your code. Iβd have to go through the manual to figure out how to reverse the change.β
βThe manual?β Vee whined. βThatβll take all day! You know how dense that thing is!β
βI knowβ¦β Brightney sighed. βBut you can still get through your day like that! You have your game show to look forward to!β
βLike this? When I get super jumpy at the lightest touch?β Vee cried. βDandy will never let me live it down! I canβt focus when my entire body tingles!β
βSure you can!β Brightney chuckled. βRemember when you had to host a game show when one of your antennae was damaged? You didnβt let that stop you!β
Vee was silent for a moment, and huffed. The television knew her best friend was right.
βYeah, I didnβt let it stop meβ¦β
βSee?β Brightney gently poked Veeβs side, just to mess with her. βJust get through the day, youβll be fine!β
Vee yelped, and let out a light burst of giggles. βBrightney!β
βSorry, couldnβt resist!β
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Vee walked from Brightneyβs room to the train station. Her skin felt more itchy than ever, and extra sensitive. Every step she took felt tingly, and even a slight breeze felt like something brushing against her. It was tortureβ¦ but at the same time, eye-opening.
This made her feel less like an outcast.
As she finished gathering all the supplies from the train, the last person she wanted to see approached. Well, not the last.
It was Dandy. Great, just the person she wanted to deal with right now.
βDandy, what do you want? Iβm really busy.β
βWhat, canβt a friend come say hello? Iβm offended, Vee.β Dandy pretended to faint, but a familiar magic caught him before he could hit the ground.
βThere you are, Astro! For a moment, I thought you didnβt want to play anymore!β Dandy giggled.
Astro drew closer with quiet steps, helping Dandy stand back up.
βOf course not, Dandy.β The moon said in a gentle tone. βI agreed to stay with you all day.β
βWell, Iβm glad!β Dandy snickered. βAfter that dream you gave me last week, you owe me!β
Astro smiled and rolled his one eye. He remembered very well, making all of his friends tickle him in his dream, in order to teach him a lesson. And it certainly worked, Dandy hasnβt done any bragging for over a week, and heβs been well behaved. Mostly.
But since he put Dandy through the wringer, he had to make up for it, even if the flower had fun.
βYes, I suppose, Dandy. That dream was quite a bit for you to handle, wasnβt it?β Astro chuckled. Dandyβs cheeks turned a little pink, and he turned to face Astro.
βMaybe a little, but remember! Mention that to anyone, or end our little game early, and Iβll just have to getcha all over again!~β Dandy sang.
Now it was Astroβs turn for a faint blue blush to appear upon his cheeks.
βDonβt remind meβ¦ thatβs how you woke me.β Astro snickered nervously.
Dandy just giggled again, and turned to Vee.
βSo, friend! What have you been up to? You got a game show today, Iβm excited to watch! I was gonna apply to play, but Iβve got my own game with Astro!β Dandy smiled brightly. Vee huffed.
βJust getting ready for that.β Vee loaded all the supplies on the wagon, hugging herself after she was done. Astro picked up on that.
βAre you alright?β Astro questioned. βYou seemβ¦ off today.β
βIβm fine.β Vee tried to direct him away from her. βJust a littleβ¦ nervous.β
βNervous?β Dandy tilted his head, his petals twitching. βYou never get nervous!β
Vee rolled her eyes, and glanced to the flower.
βDonβt know what thatβs like?β Vee teased. βIβve seen you get your petals in a tangle over the silliest things.β
βHey! Theyβre not silly! Theyβre important to me!β Dandy huffed. Astro got closer to Vee.
βVee, youβre truly acting different.β The moon drew closer, until he was just a few feet away from the television. βYouβre acting jumpy, like youβve seen a ghost. And Connie is spending time with Gigi and Flutter. Sheβs been busy all day.β
βI-Iβm fine!β Vee stammered. Odd, she hasnβt stammered like that beforeβ¦
βAre you sure?β Astro activated his magic, and adjusted her bowtie.
The yelp Vee let out startled both Dandy and Astro.
βWhoa, Vee!β Dandy cried. βAre you hurt? Do I need to get Brightney?β
Vee gasped sharply, and collapsed onto the floor.
βNo, donβt!β Vee panicked. βShe already knows what is going on, no need to fetch her!β
There were a few moments of silence. Astro barely even touched her, and yet she reacted like that. He stepped back, and got behind Dandy. He attempted to hide the slight smirk appearing on his face behind his blanket.
βDandy, I believe I know whatβs going on with Vee.β Astro stifled a chuckle. βYou know one of our sayings?β
βNever practice your stage tricks and memorize your scripts at the same time?β Dandy asked.
βNo, not that one.β Astro rolled his eye. βThereβs no such thing as a Toon that isnβt ticklish.β
βRight, that one!β Dandy giggled. βBut what does that have to do with Vee?β
βShe had maintenance done today. I think that means her previous advantage is gone.β
It took a moment for Dandy to process, but then his face lit up like a holiday tree. Vee always had a leg up on him for being less ticklish than him. She loved tickling other Toons, and he was a frequent target of this. She would tickle him thoroughly, but he could never get her back very well, as she wasnβt that sensitive compared to othersβ¦
βNo way.β Dandy said. βNo. Flipping. Way!β Dandy giggled excitedly. βI can get her back!β
Vee started to panic, and she tried to run. Dandy saw her, and quickly went after her. Vee couldnβt run long, as every step she took felt like ticklish lightning going from her paws to her head, and she was forced to slow down, allowing for the flower to catch up. It wasnβt long before Dandy grabbed her, and pulled her down to the floor rather easily.
βGotcha, Vee!β Dandy smirked. βYouβre usually much more difficult to catch. Going easy on me?β
βYou wish.β Vee huffed.
βAlright, thatβs it! You canβt pick on me anymore, especially after this.β Dandy chuckled. βNow, letβs see how much I can tickle you before your voice starts to glitchβ¦β
Vee shivered. Thatβs only happened once, and that was with Sprout and Cosmo. Those two went after her one day, and Sprout managed to get her voice box to nearly break. Only one spot on her guarantees that reaction.
βOh, but I wonβt go for your tail just yet.β Dandy giggled. βIf youβre really as ticklish as the rest of us, I wanna drag this out!β
βBut Iβve got a game show to do!β Vee tried to protest, but Dandy merely smiled at her.
βDonβt worry, Vee. Iβll let you go before it starts. Youβll have plenty of time to get ready!β
The flower dragged his hands very slowly across Veeβs sides, his hands very careful. He snickered seeing Vee tried to hold in her laughter. She did that a lot, even before her increased sensitivity. But the flower knew she couldnβt keep it up for very long.
βYou never stop being stubborn, do you, Vee?β Dandy teased, lifting his hands for a moment. βAstro, arenβt you gonna help?β
Astroβs eyes widened. βYouβ¦ want me to help tickle her?β Astro was surprised Dandy didnβt want to savor this for himself.
βOf course I do, silly! Why do you think I called for you?β Dandy snickered.
βWell, I donβt want to push her too muchβ¦β Astro was growing shy again. Dandy then smirked at his best friend.
βAstro~β Dandy sang. βIf youβre not gonna help, I could always ditch Vee and go for you. I know how adorably ticklish you are!β
Astroβs blue blush returned and he sighed softly. He knew Dandy would just go for him if he didnβt, as he promised to stick with Dandy all day. The flower had already tickled him that morning as his alarm clock. It was certainly effective, as the moon followed the saying he referenced before. Not only that, but Dandy held the promise of more tickling over his head.
He knew he didnβt have much of a say in the matter.
βSorry, Veeβ¦β Astro drew closer, and sat down next to Vee.
βOh, come on, Astro. No need to be apologetic!β Dandy giggled. βSheβs tickled you, too! Now you can get revenge on her for that!β
βI suppose youβre right.β Astro smiled lightly. βShe has, and I suppose I can take advantage of this.β
βSee? Thatβs the spirit!β Dandy chirped.
Vee could do without the casual conversation. She was about to try fighting back, but Dandy beat her to it. He had enough of going light, so rather than dragging his fingers, he dug in, but not too much as to not hurt her by accident.
βAlright, enough fighting, Vee.β Dandy smirked. βThis is for all the times youβve gotten me!β
The unexpected switch from light tickles to more intense ones made Vee squeal. That was something she was not used to doing. She let out a burst of laughter, and tried to get away from the pair.
βDandy!β Vee cried. βNo, please! I canβt take it!β Vee cried as she fell into a giggle fit.
βSure you can!β Dandy teased. βYou seem to be just fine!β
The flower winked at Astro, and the moon decided to join in. He used his magic, as he wasnβt comfortable bringing out his hands for this. He brushed his sparkles across Veeβs stomach and neck, making her chortles get even louder.
βAstro! Not you too!β Vee cried, trying in vain to break free from Dandyβs grip. Astro shrugged.
βItβs either this, or Dandy goes for me again. And heβs tickled me plenty already.β Astro smiled. βBesides, you deserve to play the same games we do it wouldnβt be fair to leave you out.β
Dandy nodded in agreement, both of them working to leave Vee in stitches. It felt great for the flower to finally get his revenge upon her after all the times she tickled him, and he was never able to return the favor. Though less frequent, Astro shared the same sentiment. Like most Toons, Vee felt a sense of contentment listening to Astroβs quiet, breathy giggles every time she tickled him. He was often too shy to even attempt to get her back.
But with Dandyβs threat, and enthusiasm, it was near impossible to refuse.
βCβmon, Vee! Isnβt this fun?β Dandy asked as he tickled her. βYou sound so excited! Itβs been a really long time since I heard you squeal!β
Dandyβs way of teasing was energetic and all over the place, just like he was. Dandy and Vee had been in a playful rivalry for a long time, and this was just a new part of it. He cared about Vee. He wouldnβt tickle her if he knew she didnβt like it, that wouldnβt be fun. To them, tickling was just a game. And games were only fun if everyone was having fun.
βYou really are a delight, Vee.β Astro chuckled as his magic got many different spots, mostly her neck, and behind her knees. βHearing you laugh like that tells me youβre happy.β
Astroβs teasing was no better than Dandyβs. Astro was always so soft, and so genuine. He loved seeing his friends laughing and happy. Vee was no exception. He didnβt touch her with his hands, as he couldnβt let them out from his blanket. However, his magic was doing a good enough job at keeping her laughing.
Eventually, they gave her a break. Vee took a moment to cool down her circuits. Dandy laughed a bit as she calmed down.
βSee? Wasnβt that fun? Donβt you feel like the rest of us?β Dandy winked at her. Vee rolled her eyes.
βI ought to throw Connie your way again.β Vee tried to compose herself and stand up.
βNow that wasnβt very nice, was it?β Astro pushed her back down to the ground with his magic.
βN-now, you two! I thought you were done!β Vee cried. Dandy smiled.
βJust one more thing, and weβll let you go!β Dandy promised. βI wanna see if the one spot that really gets you still does!β Astro nodded in agreement.
βIβd love to see it, too. Based on what I heard Shelly did that one time, that mic tail of yours really gets you going.β The moon chuckled.
Vee panicked, but Astro grabbed her mic tail with his magic before she could protect it. The moon smirked, and handed it to Dandy.
βAny last words, Vee?β Dandy asked teasingly.
Vee gulped. There really was no way out of it. Dandy was going to do this whether she wanted it or not. And it would be a lie to say she wasnβt curious about her tailβs sensitivityβ¦
βBe gentle, okay?β Vee blurted out.
Dandy and Astro looked to each other, and nodded.
βSure, we will!β Dandy cried. βYou and I might bump heads, but that doesnβt mean I want to push you to possibly getting hurt!β
βOf course, Vee.β Astro continued. βWeβd never do anything youβre not comfortable with.β
Vee felt a little relieved. They cared about her, at least enough for that.
βNow, where were we?~β Dandy chuckled. βOh, right!β
It was a gentle touch, like Dandy said he would, but just a single finger tracing along Veeβs microphone was enough to drive her crazy.
Vee burst into a fit of laughter, unable to escape from Dandy and Astroβs grip. She could hardly stand it. Her tail was already quite the ticklish spot, but the new sensitivity made it a whole lot worse. So much so that her voice box briefly glitched. A robotic equivalent to a snort.
βThere we go!β Dandy said, satisfied. βThatβs exactly what I was hoping for, thatβs adorable!β
Astro nodded in agreement, though he worried a bit for Vee. She had never been this ticklish before, so he didnβt wish to overwhelm her.
βAlright, we should let her go.β Astro said gently.
βAw, but weβre having fun!β Dandy whined as he continued tracing the edges of her mic.
βDandy, she has a show, we canβt hold her back.β Astro reminded.
The flower was silent for a moment, but he knew his best friend was right.
βOh, okayβ¦β He released Veeβs tail, allowing for the television to catch her breath.
Vee struggled to put herself back together. She had never been tickled like that before, and she didnβt know what she was feeling after it stopped. She was dizzy, exhausted, and still letting out aftershock giggles. But there was something elseβ¦
βAre you okay, Vee?β She heard Dandy ask. βI know I was a bit rough.β
βNoβ¦ youβre fine.β Dandy helped the television stand, and he made sure she could walk.
βWell, that was fun!β Dandy cried. βIβve never heard you laugh that hard before, it was exciting! We should do that more often!β
βIβ¦ think Iβm good.β Vee held her head up.
As Vee gathered herself, and Dandy made sure she was stable. Dyle walked by with a clipboard in his hands.
βDandicus, if youβre done tormenting Miss Vee for the day, could you help me organize these supplies? Iβm sure this is more important than your childish games.β
Dandy let out a soft sigh, but nodded.
βRight, of course, Dyle! Besides, we still have our game, Astro! Good luck with your show, Vee!β The flower ran over to help Dyle.
Astro gave a light smile to Vee. βGood luck. And have fun today.β
βAstro!~β The moon heard Dandy call out.
Astro just gave a nod to Vee, and ran off to follow his friend.
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Vee checked the time. She was on in half an hour, and the tingly feeling beneath her skin wasnβt leaving her alone. She even changed her batteries, and the reboot didnβt fix it. Now, she was trying to make sure Glisten and Shelly didnβt break any equipment during setup.
After Glisten adjusted the last light, he climbed down from the catwalk above the stage. He straightened out the bow across his waist, and checked his makeup in his compact mirror that he kept with him.
βUgh, all this physical work is going to make my makeup run.β Glisten scoffed. As he spoke, Shelly climbed down after him.
βIβm sure itβs not that bad, Glisten. You still look pretty to me!β The ammonite tried to cheer him up.
βOf course I am, Shelly~ But I canβt let anyone else see me with messy makeup!β
Vee walked by, checking the lights from where she was standing. She was constantly rubbing her arms, and standing in a rather nervous position. She narrowed her eyes as she looked at how they were placed.
βGood job, prissy mirror.β Vee glanced to Glisten. βYou actually got the lights decent in one try. Usually I send you up there at least five times to readjust them.β
βI told you, everything I do is just flawless, Vee!β Glisten smirked.
βWhatever, just make sure you and Shelly donβt break anything. I need to prepare.β
Vee went to her dressing room, still rubbing her arms and part of her neck.
Glisten turned to face Shelly after he knew Vee was out of earshot.
βShelly, dearestβ¦ have you noticed anything off about Vee? Sheβs acting nervous when she never gets anxious about anything. Unless her battery is lowβ¦ or she has a virus.β Glisten quickly grew worried. βOh dear, maybe Brightney can help her before the show starts-β
βGlisten, itβs okay!β Shelly quickly interrupted before he had a dramatic freakout.
βVeeβs just acting a bit on edge.β She stifled a laugh. βNot sure how, but something in her system made her extra ticklish.β
Glistenβs worry quickly turned to mischief.
βReally now?β The mirror chuckled. βGood to know, especially since I needed a way to get her backβ¦β A playfully evil smirk appeared on his face.
βNow, Glistenβ¦β Shelly put her hand on his shoulder. Glisten laughed slightly.
βIβm not just going to let this slide, Shelly!β Glisten remarked. βDo you have any idea how many times Iβve had to deal with her? Itβs infuriating that I never got the chance for a proper revenge until now!β
βI know.β Shelly playfully rolled her eyes. βSheβs tickled me, too. I think Iβm one of her favorites with how often she goes for me.β
βThen you should understand!β Glisten assured her. βTell you whatβ¦ why donβt we teach that egotistical television a lesson?β The mirror suggested, as if he didnβt have a large ego himself.
βWhat?β Shelly gulped. βBut Glisten! Donβt you know what Vee will do to us after? Every time I get her back, she almost immediately chases me!β
βSheβll go after us anyway.β Glisten shrugged. βItβs one of the downsides of being two of her favorites, darling. We never get a moment of peace.β He then turned to Shelly with a smirk. βEven if someone has more fun than I do.β
Shelly had a faint orange blush on her face, and glanced away.
βWell, maybeβ¦ But itβs still a big risk, considering how ticklish she knows we both areβ¦β The ammonite shivered. Glisten merely chuckled.
βThat might be true, but big risks have big rewards tied to them.β The mirror assured her. βAnd what bigger reward is there than seeing Vee get everything sheβs ever given us back?β
That was all it took for Shelly to get on board.
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Vee looked at herself in her changing room mirror. She had to keep herself at least somewhat composed for the show. If anyone saw her in such a giggly, disheveled state, she would never live it down. Dandy already knew, and so did Shelly. But acting like that onstage, in front of everyone? The thought embarrassed her. Something she didnβt feel much.
A rhythmic knock on her door tore her away from her thoughts. The television turned around, seeing Glisten and Shelly in the doorframe.
βDid you two break something?β Vee asked blankly.
βNo, noβ¦β Glisten chuckled. βWe just want to make sure you look perfect for your gameshow. What better way to do that than a pre-show makeover?~β
βPlus it might ease your nerves.β Shelly added.
Vee shivered. She knew immediately what they were planning. She backed away.
βYou donβt have to do anything. Iβll be fine!β Vee raised her hands to block herself. βYou guys can just join the audience nowβ¦β
βNot happening, Vee.β Glisten grabbed the televisionβs wrists, a clear smirk on his face. βShelly gave me a very interesting tidbit after we finished. Something aboutβ¦ not having an advantage anymore?β
Vee gasped. Of all the Toons, Dandy and Glisten were the biggest ones she didnβt want to find this out. Now both of them knew, and she was done for. Vee shot a sharp glare at Shelly.
βWhat?β The ammonite smiled. βBeing ticklish isnβt a bad thing! If anything, it makes you more fun to be around!β Shelly giggled.
βIβd have to agree with her, Miss Vee.β The mirror added. βItβs like an extra accessory. It adds another part of you that we all love.β
Vee tried desperately to pull away, but Glisten had a stronger grip than she remembered. That, or his touch was already getting her nerves to weaken her.
The television internally promised sheβd get Shelly for this.
βYou donβt have to do this!β Vee gulped. βI know I tickled you both before, but thatβs no reason to get revenge right before I go on!β She shivered.
βOh, donβt worry, drama queen.β Glisten chuckled. βYouβll be fine. Weβll release you with just enough time to gather yourself for the show.β Shelly nodded in agreement.
The ammonite and mirror had a game plan. Shelly sat a little off to the side, watching as Glisten prepared to gave Vee what she earned over the years.
βDonβt tickle her too much! I still want a turn!β
βTrust me, Shells. Youβll get her, I promise.β Glisten winked at her, and he pushed Vee into her chair in front of her mirror.
βVee, youβre in good hands. Youβll be stage ready in no time~β
Glisten stood behind Veeβs chair, a gentle smirk on his face. He brought his hands around, and gently squeezed the televisionβs sides. The sharp gasp Vee released along with a burst of giggles invoked a smile from both Shelly and Glisten.
βSo it is true. I believed Shelly, but I needed to see it myself.β Glisten hummed stroked his hands up and down her sides. βYou being extra ticklish is just precious. Tell me, Vee. How does it feel to be us? This is exactly what you do to us~β
Vee realized it. This was exactly what she inflicted on other Toons. She loved to dish it out, yet taking it was a whole other story. She remembered all the times she tickled Shelly until she grew dizzy, or teased Glisten until his cheeks turned pink enough that he didnβt need makeup. Now she knew what she put them through.
βYou bratty little-β She was cut off with a squeal, as the mirror traced shapes all over her stomach. βIβll get you for this!β She cried as she dissolved into louder laughter.
βWhy? Iβm just trying to help.β Glisten teased. βLook at yourself, Vee!β Glisten tilted the televisionβs head up with one hand, while with the other, gently scratching at her belly, as of it were itchy.
Vee belted out more squeals and bursts of laughter, trying to look away from her vanity mirror. She shut her eyes tightly, not wanting to see her silly face reflected back at her.
βCome on, Vee~β Glisten sang, not letting up. βLook at your pretty face. Itβs not as pretty as mine, but still pretty nonetheless.β He kept her head still so it was forced to face her mirror. βIt looks even prettier while youβre laughing.β
βShut up!β Vee shouted, and Glisten paused his attack. The television quickly realized her error, but she was not going to back down that easy.
βHow rude of you, Vee!β Glisten scoffed. βIβm trying to get you ready, and youβre being mean to me! How could you?β
He retaliated by digging both his hands into her torso, completely ditching the reflection idea. For that, he just wanted to hear Vee shriek. She certainly delivered.
Vee squirmed violently in the chair, trying desperately to get away from that cursed mirrorβs manicured hands, but it was no use. Though Glisten wanted to tickle her all day, he knew by the time he was halfway satisfied, she would overheat. So after just two minutes of rough scribbles, he released her.
The television took this time to cool down her systems. She was still not used to how sensitive she was, but it would be a lie to say she wasnβt fascinated by this. Enjoying the constant revenge plots was still up in the air, however.
βYouβreβ¦ the worst.β Vee huffed out. Glisten merely smirked.
βYou might think that, but you deserve nothing less than this.β Glisten remarked without heat. βAnd donβt think weβre even. I do hope this new ticklish side of you sticks.β
Though the mirror wanted to tickle her more, he remembered the promise he made to Shelly, who was watching excitedly.
βAlright, Shelly.β Glisten grabbed Veeβs arm, and passed her to the ammonite. βYour turn.β
βYay!β Shelly cried, giving Vee a tight hug. The television tried her best to return it, while shivers went down her back.
Shelly checked the time. Fifteen minutes until Vee had to go on stage. She smirked, just enough time to get her in hysterics while giving her the time she needed to recover. She dragged Vee down to the floor with her.
βIβll be quick, Vee!β Shelly promised. βBesides, I know exactly what gets you squealing fast!β The ammonite grabbed Veeβs mic tail.
βW-wait, Shelly!β She tried to beg. She knew how playful Shelly was, and the idea of her extra sensitive mic tail at her friendβs mercy sent chills through her.
βVee, trust me.β Shelly said in a softer tone. βI wonβt push you too much, I promise. Iβm not mean.β She rubbed Veeβs tail with her thumb. βBut hearing you laugh like this, and how much fun youβre havingβ¦ itβs really nice.β
Veeβs systems grew warm. She didnβt expect Shelly to be thatβ¦ sweet. She loved spending time with Shelly even if she denied it. They got along well, despite their differences, and Vee found everything Shelly did to be endearing.
βShelly, you really donβt have to-β Vee was cut off with a loud squeal as the ammonite nuzzled into her mic tail.
βOh, but I do! I might be nice, but I canβt even count how many times youβve tickled me!β Shelly giggled. βConsider this getting even!β
βShelly, Iβm sorry!β Vee cried as she shrieked with hysterics.
βHey, I didnβt get any apology!β Glisten interjected as he watched.
βAnd I forgive you, Vee.β Shelly stifled a laugh. βBut I still think you need a little payback.β
For nearly ten minutes, Shelly remained glued to Veeβs mic tail, using every tactic she could think of to keep the television laughing. Gentle nuzzles, scribbles, tracing, anything just to hear Vee squeal and writhe in hysteria, with occasional glitches in her voice.
Though she knew she had to stop, and she did so, just five minutes before Vee had to go on.
Vee laid on the floor, completely breathless. She was completely wiped from the combined tickles from Glisten and Shelly, and both of them stood over her.
βYou alright?β Glisten asked, his smug looks changing to concern.
βIβm fine.β Vee slowly stood up with Shellyβs help. βBut mark my words, I will get you for thisβ¦β Vee turned to Shelly.
βBelieve me you little menace. I will get you when you least expect it, and tickle you until you canβt even recall any of your dinosaur facts anymore.β She enunciated her words by poking Shelly along her sides and ribs.
βOkay, I get it!β Shelly yelped, and let out a burst of giggles.
βAnd you.β Vee glared at Glisten. βI will not let this stand. Iβll make you laugh way louder than I ever have the next time I get you.β Glisten shrunk back a bit, holding up his hands in defense.
βYou wouldnβt!β He cried.
βOh, I will.β Vee then had to go on stage. She adjusted herself as best she could, and took a deep breath.
βIf either of you are still back here by the time Iβm done, youβre mine.β Vee threatened, walking to the curtains.
That was their only warning, so Glisten and Shelly took it, and scattered.
ββββββββββββββββββββββββββββββββββββββββββββ
If you asked any of the watching Toons, the game show was just as fun as any other. Looey ended up winning, and every question and challenge was entertaining. But if Vee was the one asked, the show was a complete disaster. She was barely keeping herself together on stage, as the residual tingles from Shelly and Glisten still ran through her circuits.
She finally made it to Brightneyβs room, who had just finished finding a way to reverse the coding. Vee sat down on her stool, and took a deep breath.
βI do hope today still went well, Vee.β Brightney remarked as she hooked Vee up to her coding computer.
βIt was awfulβ¦β Vee said without any malice. βIβm just glad itβs about to be over.β
βWell, if the reverse code works, it should. But Iβm not sure how your system responded to the new code.β
Brightney opened up Veeβs back, and checked the wires. They were even more tangled than when she checked earlier. No doubt from the gameshow, heavy lifting, and especially how much she was tickled.
βThis is going to be tough.β Brightney grabbed a flashlight, and looked at what she needed to rearrange. βHold still, Vee.β She gave a playful warning.
Vee could barely hold still. Every time any of her wires were messed with, she let out another burst of laughter. Brightney found it entertaining, but she didnβt want to admit that out loud right now.
βVee, I told you to hold still.β Brightney tried to tell her friend as she adjusted more wires.
βI canβt help it!β Vee shouted back, giggles breaking up her speech.
βTry to a little.β The lamp tried to hide any amusement in her voice.
After a long while, she managed to get all the wires in their proper place, and she went to her coding computer to adjust the code. She spent a few minutes typing and changing lines of code, but paused. She gulped.
βWait, what?β Vee looked over at Brightney. βWhat do you mean βuh ohβ?β
βI canβt change the code thatβs making you more ticklish.β Brightney admitted. βI tried multiple times but something is blocking me. The only way this can happen is ifβ¦β She trailed off, realizing something.
βYou donβt want the code changedβ¦ do you?β
Veeβs eyes widened. She shifted on the stool, realizing what that meant. βIβ¦ I donβt know what youβre talking about.β She stammered out.
βYou donβt?β Brightney wasnβt buying it. βVee, youβve told me many times that you want to be more like the other Toons. Sure, this whole thing was an accident, but it gave you a different perspective.β She smiled a little. βIt might sound silly, but being just as sensitive as the rest of us made you feel more connected with everyone else. We always say that thereβs no such thing as Toon who isnβt ticklish. You must know the extent of that now.β
Vee was silent, her systems heating as Brightney continued.
βItβs nothing to be ashamed about, Vee.β The lamp rested a hand on her friendβs shoulder. βIt just means youβre a bit more like the rest of us. But you might have to get used to not having the same advantage you did before.β
Vee pondered on this, and realized how right Brightney was. She got everything spot on, and her feelings were right in the open for her best friend. Her advantage might be goneβ¦ but this just meant she was a bit more like the rest of the Toons. Brightney was right after all. She didnβt want the code changed.
βI suppose youβre right. I donβt want that changed.β
βThere we go, Vee.β Brightney put away the computer. βGlad youβre not too upset about my mistake.β
βWho said I wasnβt mad?β
Brightneyβs eyes widened under her glasses. Even if Vee didnβt have the same advantage, one thing that didnβt change was her willingness to chase the other Toons. Her best friend was no exception.
βYou caused this, so youβre gonna pay for it.β Vee got up, wiggling her fingers tauntingly at the lamp.
βN-now, Vee! It was an accident!β Brightney tried to defend herself.
βMaybe, but look what it caused.β Vee drew closer, and her friend backed away.
βYou have three seconds to start running.β
Brightney quickly bolted out of the room with a startled yelp, Vee chasing after her.
Some things never change.