#2% connivingness...

[milkbreadtoast]

shady guy...

[cowboyfromh3ll]

I LOVED what you wrote for the dutch's daughter!reader fic. I know you said you wanted a bit of variety in the requests, so you can ignore this one for a little while if you want. Would you be able to expand on their relationship a bit more, and maybe do a scenario where the reader is washing up away from camp, perhaps at Flat Iron Lake (when they moved camp to Clemen's Point) in the evening, and Arthur "stumbles" upon her (he was lowkey watching her), joins her, and fucks her whilst suspended in the water. After they finish, he has to duck down behind her because Dutch walks up to check on her since she was taking a long time, and they nearly get caught.

Getting caught stirred Arthur on more, and after Dutch walks off, he has to take her again because he has such an adrenaline rush :)'''

The Passion Of Lovers (Part 2)

(Arthur Morgan x Dutch’s Daughter!Reader Smut)

Warnings: smut

In spite of your father’s imperiousness, you sought cracked pleasures. There was only so much contentment money could bring, and your other needs began to come into question. Being surveilled in camp 24/7 turned you into quite the sly individual, that combined with the fact that you were Dutch’s daughter, and you could witness firsthand his own connivingness. You in turn became very skilled at sneaking and lying; an inherited sixth sense that would backfire on Dutch time and time again. Your humor attracted the lucky bad type, never quite breaking your heart in the process. You were meticulously careful in all your sordid affairs, making sure your father knew not too much; and knew exactly what you wanted him to know. Though you never did view your relationship with Arthur as something to be ashamed of or worth hiding; in fact, the chances of anyone else in camp besides your father finding your relationship to be disreputable were extremely low. But the two of you were smart enough to know that if you had decided to confide in your most trusted peers, it would somehow, inevitably get back to Dutch. 

You didn’t even want to ponder on the possibility of what would happen if your father found out. There’d be a strange rift in camp; like a burdensome wrinkle that you can’t quite iron out no matter how many times you go over it, no matter how much heat you apply. The tension would be palpable; would Dutch argue with Arthur? Would he force him to break up with you? If so, would he change his mind once he saw how ruined you were because of it? Part of you felt a sick satisfaction out of imagining your father’s guilty face once he saw how heartbroken you were. A pleasure in pain. 

Your mornings begun fairly early; you’d awake at around 5 AM, a feverish anticipation for the day stirring in your joints as you became restless, giggling quietly to yourself as to not wake your father, as you imagined yourself venturing off into town with Arthur in an impromptu date, or sneaking a kiss or two just outside camp out of the view of any watch guards. Subtly pushing up against one another, blowing each other's circuitry while disguising it with the confusion of blithe laughter and small talk funneled into each other's ears with moist, anticipatory lips. Of course, before drawing any suspicion to yourselves, you’d look off to the side with an idle stare that suggested nothing was happening between you two, that this was entirely casual, that neither of you had meant to have you press your ass up against Arthur’s eager crotch while hurriedly passing each other in a cramped area. 

Perhaps your flirtations over time had become imprudent. Caring less and less about keeping them away from camp, finding some sort of exhilaration in the risk that came with doing so in such a widely observable area. Your coquetry bordering on the edge of just enough to keep it safe and fun, and pushing the boundaries of what would fly under Dutch’s radar. 

Though like many of your mornings, you began your day by heading towards the campfire to eat some stew. You’d then indulge in a cup of coffee, sipping the drink with an eerie smile on your face while you stared off over Flatiron Lake, something no one would comment on out of politeness. If chance allowed it, you’d sneak over to Arthur’s tent and share a few hurried kisses before anyone else awoke. Though whilst the morning was still breaking in from night, you’d venture into the lake for a quick bath in preparation for the day’s events. You used only the most expensive shampoos and fragrances which you’d use modestly; the scents potent enough for them to last throughout the day. You had hoped the fragrance would absorb into your skin, wanting to smell as though you were some readily edible treat. A treat that Arthur could merely observe behind a viewing glass as long as the two of you were in camp; and if he so much as dared to reach for the confection, his wrist would be slapped away hastily. 

You dressed yourself with some of the finest clothing you had picked out yourself provided your father’s money, and by the time you returned to camp from the lake, more than half the camp was bustling with life. You’d greet each member in passing, careful not to put too much interest in your greeting towards Arthur as you stood next to him by the campfire.

“I’m going into town today? Ride with me?” Your question was innocent enough, but the corners of your mouth twitched at the innuendos underlining it. ‘Of course, I ALWAYS wanna ride.’ seemed to be a shared thought between the two of you as you both took a moment to clear your throats. 

“Of course, (Name). What errands you running today?” He’d ask. 

You’d shrug nonchalantly, unsure of what tribute to your sizable allowance you’d buy this time. “Was thinking of some clothes. Nothing specific in mind but I just wanna look around.” You disguised your burgeoning smile by sipping another mug of coffee you had poured yourself. Arthur nodded before looking off pensively, as if he were going through some mental archive he had of all the clothes he wanted to see you in. 

It was routine to walk towards your father’s tent, to inform him of your departure from camp for a few hours to do some errands, and without looking up from whatever book he was engrossed in, unable to see your excitement, he’d beckon Arthur forth, instructing him to accompany you into town. It was only then that he’d look up at Arthur with a threatening gaze, telling him to take good care of you.

And good care he took of you. You weren’t made aware of any leering gazes, as Arthur had effectively scared any men off. He held your arm as you walked, whispering the occasional compliment about how amazing you looked. He’d bury his head in your hair, taking in deep inhales as he reveled in the fragrant scent and softness of your hair. 

The occasional stray touch would indicate your excitement; a hand sliding too far up one another’s thighs as if in search of the pulsing heat the other longed for. You and Arthur appraised how well a clothing piece would compliment you. A sensually inquisitive hand would adjust your collar, lingering on your pulse before pulling away, a small brushing of your breast preceding a more firm squeeze, a hand on your back that would impishly slide down to the curve of your ass before delivering a playful spank or clutch. 

By the time you two returned to camp, you were concupiscent, at the boiling points of your arousal. Before entering the path towards camp the two of you would swap saliva, hungry tongues exploring as you groped each other ardently. Sometimes coitus was not an option on the table, restrained by the limits of time and curfews. You two would adopt the facade of friends well acquainted simply returning from a day out on the town; walking into camp while your bodies were still in stages of lingering arousal. From where you stood next to Arthur, you’d be able to watch as Arthur gingerly ran his exposed palm over himself and adjusted his pants, his shame and caution taking control over his half-inflated genitals. 

You’d continue the rest of your day with chronic arousal, briefly glancing over towards Arthur and granting him a knowing gaze. It said ‘I know you’re dying to touch me right now, and you’ll be able to soon.’ 

You’d set down whatever book you were reading, gathering your night garbs and expensive soaps and lotions before heading off towards an isolated part of the lake for your second bath of the day; an inviting air surrounding you. Arthur would perk up in his cot, as if someone had suddenly called his name with unbridled urgency. Before long he’d feel excitement stirring in his loins at the thought of watching you bathe, and would feign composure as he sat up in his cot, accentuating just how ‘non-excited’ he was by stretching out his limbs and sighing, before hurriedly walking off towards the woods bordering the lake. He’d loop around the path to make sure no one was watching him, whistling for his horse so no one would question his whereabouts without his horse to follow. He’d tie his steed to a tree trunk, before venturing into the trees himself. 

He saw the horizon over the lake, the sky tinged with lavender and dark purple as day transitioned to night. His eyes scanned the lake desperately for signs of your body. He walked along the edge of the woods, eventually spotting your pile of clothes left on a boulder. He traced his eyes up from the pile and towards the lake, where he saw your naked body contrasting against the darkness of the water and the sky. The water blocked him from viewing your pelvis or legs, but your breasts and hardened nipples were in full view, gleaming from the moonlight shining on them. Arthur leaned his back on a nearby tree, as if he were getting comfortable for a show he had traveled various lengths for, finally able to enjoy what he came for. 

He watched as you clutched the slippery bar of pink soap in your hand, lathing it over your skin with careful precision as to not drop the bar. As if you were reading Arthur’s mind, you smeared the bar over and in between your breasts, glazing your skin in a soapy film before taking your hands and frothing the suds. You ran your hands down your sides sensually, lifting your legs from the water to lather the skin there too. As you did so, your crotch came into view. Arthur’s chest heaved in excitement, and he began palming his cock through the front of his jeans. The applied pressure caused him to groan silently, and his hands gained a mind of their own as he began unbuckling his belt and undoing the front of his jeans. 

Before he could pull his cock out, he made eye contact with you; and rather than being chastised and branded a creep for watching you, you giggled and turned to face him fully from the water. 

“Hey, Arthur!” You called from the water. You waved your hands towards you, motioning for him to come to you. “Get in! Water feels real nice!” You waved the soap bar in the air now, suggesting you could give him a cleaning of his own; a cleaning that would more than likely turn into something more. 

He held the demeanor of a kid flying down the stairs of his two story home on christmas morning, bee lining towards the gifts under the tree. He stood next to the boulder where your clothes lay, depositing the fabrics hastily behind the rock out of view in the possibility that someone stumbles across you two. You licked your lips in excitement as you watched him undress, drinking in every detail of his body and making a special note of his half erect cock. He dipped his body below the water’s surface to begin soaking his body in preparation for your cleaning. You took him in with open arms, feeling the way his chest vibrated in a satisfied hum as he felt your soapy breasts up against his torso.

“Were you watching meee?” You drew out the syllable playfully, playing with the hair on his chest as you looked up at him. His arms slid under yours and around your waist with ease, pulling you impossibly closer against him. He reveled in the way your breasts pressed and slid against him, and you felt his cock twitch against your thigh. 

“Maybe.” He responded humorously. 

“Do you want me to clean you?” You raised the bar into view again, waving it. 

“As long as you’re touching me, I don’t care what you do woman.” He gave your ass a playful spank as you dipped the bar into the lake water, rubbing your hand on it in a way that made Arthur’s cock twitch once again. Once you produced enough suds, you began rubbing it all over Arthur’s chest and shoulders, working the foam into his skin in hopes he’d smell as good as you. Arthur hummed in delight, thinking nonchalantly about what excuse he’d use when asked why he smelled like you, and he’d claim he had treated himself to some soap, and in his ignorance for what was best, trusted your judgment and ended up buying the same one as you. 

You arms massaged his firm muscles in the process, squeezing before moving onto the next fiber group. Your hands moved around towards his back, in awe of the expansive size of his wide set shoulders and formed rhomboid, which you took extra care in massaging. He groaned in satisfaction as your lithe hands pressed against him, and before long you dropped all innocent pretenses, handing the bar of soap to him before gripping the base of his cock, giving it a firm squeeze before stroking it vigorously. Arthur released a sigh of satisfaction, tipping his head back as a string of moans and curses followed. 

“I’ve been wanting to do this all day.” You confessed, eyes trained on the way the tip of his cock bobbed with each movement. Your right arm rose and fell in repetitive motions, tugging against his crotch. 

"Fuck… what if your dad catches us?" Arthur groaned, leaning his pelvis towards you as if you were pulling him along by his cock. Your dad. The way Arthur referred to him not by Dutch but as your dad added a layer of scandalousness to the situation that made it all the more better. 

"Well then, you hide." You answered bluntly, stopping to smother his tip with your thumb. Arthur discarded the thought, lathering up his hands before cupping your breasts and rubbing them thoroughly. The suds sat on your breasts irresistibly, some of them sliding down over the curves and onto the rest of your body. The skin became equally as slippery, and made the movement of your breasts against one another effortless as Arthur pressed them against one another. He ran his thumbs over your nipples in fascination, delivering the occasional slap before going back to squeezing them. 

The display was theatrical for Arthur, but you soon grew far too needy. Not to mention the growing urgency of time restraints; your father's apprehensiveness over your well being when you took too long to do certain things drove him to look for you, and even during something as intimate as a bath, he found more reason to search for you given your vulnerable state. 

Reaching down you used your fingers to guide his cock into you, making it past the awkward rubbery stage of submerged penetration. All your worries melted away as Arthur speared you on his cock, wrapping your arms around his neck as he bounced you on his pelvis. You threw your heard back in a wanton moan, noticing the beginning of a smattering of stars, but your whole world was soon reduced to hisses and moans, the water of the lake responsive to each thrust, lapping away at your thighs.

You opted to wrapping your legs around Arthur's torso, his hands coming to instinctively cup your ass as he held you up. The movements were hurried, desperate; as though some worldly force would come and ruin this moment for you. You dragged your nails along Arthur back, thin ribbons of blood blossoming forth and leaving a stinging sensation behind for Arthur to revel in. With Arthur supporting your whole weight within his hands and firearms, it allowed you to unwrap your arms from around him and theatrically play with your breasts, making a show of the slippery wet mounds of flesh. 

Before long, you came on Arthur's cock, your juices mixing with the lake water. You had to bite down on your thumb to contain any squeals or moans, bracing yourself for Arthur's own release. He gave you a warning grunt, stilling as he emptied himself inside you in a few deep thrusts. As Arthur slid you off and helped you onto your feet, you groaned in satisfaction. Your crotch was a pool of spent pleasure; the slow drip of Arthur's fluid leaving your body feeling like a deep ache inside you that had finally been remedied. 

"That was fun." You giggled, leaning up to kiss him. The two of you remained there, bathed in moonlight, sharing a few tender kisses and forgetting yourselves; and the time. 

"(Name)!" 

"Shit." You whispered between teeth. You allowed each other a moment of shared disbelief; Arthur looking down at you in horror before jumping into action. You dunked him beneath the water behind you, the increasingly nearing sound of leaves and sticks crunching urging you on. You hoped to God Arthur's lung capacity would be in your favor. You yourself had to lower yourself to neck level to avoid having your father look at you stark naked. Thankfully, as he emerged from the woods, he allowed you the decency of shielding his eyes, only daring occasionally to look between the cracks in his fingers to ensure you were okay. 

"(Name)! There you are! Are you okay? You've uh.. certainly been taking your time today." He cleared his throat, keeping his eyes on the ground. You followed his eyes down to where they were on the floor, and a cold sense of panic rattled within your rib cage as you realized some of Arthur's clothes were peeking out from around the boulder where your clothes lay. 

"I'm okay, Daddy." You said reassuringly, hoping that would be enough for him to leave you alone. You felt a small tap on your calve, indicating Arthur's breath was running out. A sense of anxiety prickled at your skin in a way that made you restlessly snappy. 

"Alright well, stews ready. And I left a small gift for you by your tent, and—"

"Okay! Thank you Daddy! Now please let me finish." Your eye twitched in aggravation, thanking the Lord your father couldn't see your face. He bid you farewell, and you watched as his back disappeared into the woods. You waited a few more seconds until he was out of earshot, Arthur's tapping on your leg had now turned into a firm squeeze. You pulled Arthur up by the shoulders, feeling as though Arthur were sucking in a deep breath for the both of you. You both caught your breath, reveling in the success of your veiled debauchery. 

“I can’t believe we pulled that off!” You laughed breathlessly, slapping one of Arthur’s pectorals. He nodded and laughed along.

“If Dutch spoke any longer I would’ve drowned.” He took one last deep breath before evening out his breathing. “And uh… it was quite exciting.” 

You nodded, tracing your eyes down and noticing he was no longer flaccid, he was hard once again. The two of you exchanged sensuous glances, before Arthur gingerly slid his hands beneath your armpits and picked you up. You wrapped your arms around his neck, letting out a kittenish moan at being penetrated again. The silence of the lake was loud again.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

The Passion Of Lovers - Bauhaus

[stargazeraldroth]

I don’t think I’ve ever said how much I like Strawberry Crepe Cookie. There’s so much mystery surrounding this tiny child. I wanna see like an official document or something where Strawberry Crepe Cookie lists their findings on the other Cookies and their ingredients. So far, we know

- Wizard Cookie is 70% intelligence, 29% curiosity, and 1% genius, and his dough contains ice cream and popping candy

- Chili Pepper Cookie is 99% ignorance and 1% spice with 13 grams of chili sauce

- Strawberry Cookie is 13% concentrated strawberry syrup, 7% sugar, and has pink food dye

- Custard Cookie III is 70% naivety, 25% custard, and 5% royalty

- GingerBrave is 100% bravery

- Clotted Cream Cookie is 25% grace, 23% eloquence, 20% brilliance, 20% ambition, 10% condensed cream, and 2% connivingness

[anonymous-person-in-hellhole]

Bubs tries to make it up to the Consul...

By the time Bubblegum showered and got changed, they decided to go straight to the door of the... honestly, they're not sure what Clotted Cream Cookie thinks of them... an annoyance, probably... terrifying, at most... Ugh, what were they thinking? They feel confused... and they can’t even begin to think what those two must be feeling...

"Oh, Bubblegum Cookie. It's nice to see you again."

They looked up at the Consul they just spied on the night before, baffled at how his face is still that same damn smiling smirk... 'What? How? After everything I just put you through, you're just gonna smile at me?'

"... Is there an issue?"

"Wha- no... there's nothing... hi." They wave their hand awkwardly and start walking with him. Financier stares at them, her eyes sharp on anything suspicious she could see in their person, and other than the weapon behind their back, there seemed to be nothing, so her guard, while still up, was less aggressive against Bubblegum.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Okay, Bubs... let's try to be nicer... they both deserve that from you...)

"... So... what's up?"

"Hopefully, not you on the rooftops..." He said, his usual charm still intact.

"Hehe, what? Why would I be on top of there?" There was a very obvious strain on Bubblegum Cookie's voice and intonation because they were clue-ing him into keeping them being an assassin down.

Clotted Cream Cookie was almost confused at the statement until something clicked in his head and he played along;

"Ah of course, how could I be so imaginative? Clearly, you do not have those skills at all."

Bubs only awkwardly laughs as Clotted Cream continues on with his business per usual...

Clotted Cream had left for the warehouse where Strawberry Crepe would build and maintain the Waffle Bots of the kingdom. When the duo got there, they saw the young inventor excitedly telling Espresso all about the Waffle Bots, and the latter seemingly sassing the young child.

Suddenly, the Consul spoke out loudly, but not in a shouting way, "Ah, Strawberry Crepe Cookie! Espresso Cookie! I have been searching for you."

"Oh! 2% Connivingness! Come in!" Was the child's response to seeing him, then an eyebrow raised at the raven-haired purple blob of whoever-that-is.

"... Yet again, you see right through me, young friend! Ha ha!"

Bubs chuckles at the simple answer the Consul would serve.

“Hm, I wonder...” (Woah, did his voice just crack? That was so adorable! ... Wait, stick to the task at hand, Bubs!) Bubs then listened as the Consul asked the young inventor if they have scanned the Ancient Cookies’ dough before, and the Inventor relayed that their equipment almost broke down when they tried because of some sort of “overwhelming power,” which Clotted Cream pondered upon shortly before a villager came running in about a WaffleBot breaking down while building a house.

“WHAT?! Did you feed the robot yucky raisins again?! They are PRECISION TOOLS! I told you a HUNDRED TIMES that you should treat them with CAUTION!” They suddenly shouted, shocking Espresso, Clotted Cream, and Bubs.

“Woah, you need help, little guy?” Bubs offered.

“First off, not a guy, secondly, sure. Ugh, guess I have to go fix it... UH-GAIN! So long!”

“Wait, Bubblegum Cookie, I suggest we go together.”

“Huh? Why?”

“I was planning for us to spend the entire day together...”

“... You were?”

“Yes, I wanted to get to know you better...”

... Bubs hasn’t felt this... surprise since Grapefruit told them how much she loved them, back before...

“HELLO?! ARE YOU TWO DONE FLIRTING YET?! WE NEED TO GO NOW!”

“Right! Apologies!”

“Sorry! And we were not flirting!”

Clotted Cream asks the two enbies to go ahead and fix the robot because he needs to talk with his colleague, who’s been standing right there, watching this chaos unfold.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Forgive me for being so late... what can I do to help?”

“2% Connivingness, go help... them out on lifting that part up, we’re almost done.”

“Oh, good. Let me handle this one, Bubblegum Cookie...” Bubs rolled their eyes, until they saw the tails from his cape... thing (???) wrapped around the giant piece and placing it where it needs to be, and Strawberry Crepe fixing it. Bubs is impressed (and confused... what are those things made of?).

“Thanks, you two... now I just need to lecture these IDIOTS NOT TO FEED THE ROBOTS THEIR RAISINS!!!”

“Welp... while they do that... let’s continue on our walk, Bubblegum Cookie.”

“Yeah... let’s go...”

“Wait, before you do...” They then take a piece of Bubs’ hair and hides it in a glass jar. “Alright, now, you can leave.”

They leave quietly as they hear the young cookie “carefully” remind the Cookies about how the Wafflebots don’t eat, especially their raisins.

“That kid terrifies me...”

“They’re a very passionate cookie, that one... you can’t deny their talent, too.”

“Well, it’s not like you can ignore it...”

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The next place they travel to is the Solarium of Unity. This place is beautiful! Unlike most other places in the kingdom, Bubs doesn’t find it boring... there’s just so much beauty in the shining decor, the detailed floors, and of course, those stained sugar glass windows portraying the Five Ancient Heroes! Goshdarnit, they would marry this room if it was a Cookie!

“Ser Madeleine Cookie! It is strange to see you here in the Solarium of Unity all by yourself. Were you... sightseeing?”

(Nah, he was probably staring at his reflection in those stained glass windows...)

“Take a look, sire!” Madeleine responded, “Figures of the Five Heroes on the stained glass...”

(Told ‘ya...) But Bubs was actually incorrect, as Madeleine instead inquired on how the windows resemble the Republican style... they hope that he means the Crème Republic, and not... nevermind.

“True! Indeed, we are at the origin of our culture, my friend. Seeing it with my own eyes where it all began is, by all means, humbling. Wistful, even.”

Bubs’ smile suddenly becomes wistful itself... suddenly missing the Grapefruit Kingdom... the people, the culture, the history, the stories, the festivals and parties... they miss it...

“Are you okay?”

“Hmm?”

“I’m sorry for distracting you, it’s just... you looked so... despairful, all of a sudden...”

“... I’m fine.”

Clotted Cream nods, and pats Bubs on the back, before staring at their back, most likely wondering about the heavy weapon they carry around all the time, or if he damaged it, in some way.

Madeleine then decided to ask Clotted Cream about something, “Have you had a chance to visit our home, Mansion Madeleine, sir? I cannot help but reminisce it’s azure carpets and airy windows shedding warm sunlight...”

Bubs then starts thinking about home, that is until she hears a faint whisper that sounds like it’s saying ‘home’ too... (... Clotted Cream, what have you gone through...?)

Suddenly, he speaks again, “Ser Madeleine Cookie, I have been meaning to ask... What was the reason for you and your...” he tries to find the words to describe Madeleine and Espresso’s relationship, “... colleague’s departure from the Crème Republic?”

Bubs snickers, “And they were colleagues...”

“... What?”

“Nothing...”

Clotted Cream continues, “How did it happen that the two of you—Cookies of great merit without a doubt—were chosen among the many Paladins and scientists?”

“Oh, it happened before your appointment as Consul, sire.” Madeleine responds, “I trust you are well aware of the so-called ‘Light Fragment Incident,’ right?”

Bubs suddenly gets confused, “I’m sorry, the what?”

They suddenly see Madeleine’s eyes light up from excitement, and they realize what’s about to happen... (I should have stayed quiet.)

Madeleine clears his throat and says, “Though it was just the slightest sliver of a Light Fragment, it could have resulted in our glorious Republic being completely wiped off the map!”

Suddenly, Clotted Cream interjects him, “Yes, yes, of course. And it is you and Espresso Cookie we have to thank for our salvation, correct? And, in the end, it was confirmed that the Light Fragments were, in fact, pieces of Soul Jam?”

Bubs felt like they should be taking notes because of how lecture-like this conversation feels, and then, they remembered a very strange piece of knowledge they picked up from someone back at the kingdom...

“Wait, I remember hearing something about that... the Soul Jam got destroyed during the... what was it? The Nightflower War, or something?”

“Dark Flour War, dear Bubblegum Cookie.” Madeleine corrects them. “How do you not remember the name of such an important part of our history?”

“No, I just got a brain fart...”

“Then, let me jog your memory!” Madeleine started, “The Dark Flour War was a war that Dark Enchantress Cookie started to gain control of all existing Soul Jam.Thanks to the Ancient Heroes' collective efforts, the world as we know it exists to this day! However, the pieces of Soul Jam were scattered across the entire continent.”

“Oh, that war... Sorry, I forget the names of wars and conflicts easily...”

Clotted Cream then speaks, his tone more urgent, yet quiet.

“Could there be more of these Light Fragments in this land that are yet to be discovered?”

Bubs replies, “If there are, they could fall into some bad hands... maybe even Dark Enchantress herself.”

“If but a small fraction of Soul Jam is capable of destroying the Crème Republic, finding and securing the remaining pieces is a matter of grave importance.”

“And, it could be used to research the kind of power the Soul Jam have...”

Madeleine stares at the smaller, younger cookie, almost as if only just now realizing that they came to help the Consul in his45 plan, and now, there’s a question in his mind forming, and if Bubs could read minds, they would answer, but they can’t.

“Thank you for sharing this with me. It seems this puzzle is finally coming together... Alright then, why don’t we- Hm? Are you not coming, Ser Madeleine Cookie?”

“I’d like to stay a bit more and look at the stained glass!” (To stare at yourself?) “Please, do not wait for me and go first, sire!”

“Very well! It was a pleasure, Ser Madeleine Cookie!”

“Alright, thanks! See you soon, Madeleine!”

Clotted Cream stares at them, confused.

“What?”

“Did you just refer to Ser Madeleine Cookie as ‘Madeleine?’”

Bubs is, admittedly, flustered at this question, and as they walk, they explain, “It’s a lot easier for me to refer to others without having to add ‘Cookie’ at the very end of their names... so, if other cookies call you Clotted Cream Cookie, I would call you...” They pause, before finally continuing, “... ‘Clotted Cream’ is actually still a very long name... how about, Clotted? No, that sounds weird...”

“I’d say it’s not that bad of a nickname...”

“Well, I would never call you ‘Cream’ or ‘Creamy,’ cause there are far too many Cookies who are named that, and also, that nickname is just so gross...”

Clotted Cream raises an eyebrow, “I don’t think you need to waste your energy for this, it’s just a nickname...”

“Clotty works.”

Suddenly, he halts his steps, and stares at them with judgment in his eyes.

“How is ‘Clotted’ or ‘Cream’ weirder or grosser sounding than ‘Clotty?’”

Bubs just shrugs, and keeps walking, gesturing for “Clotty,” to come.

“I pray to the Divine Light that that nickname does not stay...”

“Too bad, Clotty.”

He sighs in defeat, then announces, “Well, we’ll be going to the tents of a king of a powerful kingdom next, so I suggest you try to hide your vulgarity.”

Their only response, “I’ll try my damnedest, sire Clotty.”

The two Cookies laugh at their banter together, although Clotted Cream tries to hold back his laughter.

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“Alright, purple... let’s see what you are made of...”

Strawberry Crepe places the piece of hair carefully in the machine’s scanning booth, and watches with baited breath, “What on Earthbread are you made out of?”

The list completes, and reveals that they are made of:

“50% bubblegum flavoring, 29% cunning, 13% wits, 7% added grapefruit, 1%... despair? Wow... they’re a mess. I thought they would have been more interesting... Welp, time to-”

Suddenly, Straberry Crepe stops dead in their tracks as they hear the machine whirring and glitching...

“What the?! What’s going on?!” They try to fix the machine, and the other villagers try to help, but whatever was happening suddenly stopped, and the scanner revealed something else...

Anomalous Nature Of Matter Acclimated Life Yeans

After the machine had written this, that’s when the magic machinery finally gave out, and Strawberry Crepe was left bewildered...

“What on Earthbread are ‘Life Yeans?’” They start wondering about what could 1% despair have been made of to do everything they just witnessed...

“I have to approach them on this.”

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“An unexpected visitor.” King Dark Cacao announces to his guards, all except Crunchy Chip, who is inconspicuously not here. “Clotted Cream Cookie, what brings you here?”

“Oh, I find a good walk in the morning rather beneficial!” Bubs snorts quietly at this answer, before nodding and “agreeing” with him. He continues, “Besides, there is much I would like to learn about the Dark Cacao Kingdom!”

“... You may speak.” The king says, seemingly cautiously.

“Your Majesty has managed to keep the throne for such a long time, warding off dire monsters and beasts... Your Cookies must respect you greatly. And that impressive wall...!”

Bubs cuts in, “I’m sure the reputation of the Dark Cacao warriors for their impeccable discipline is all thanks to Your Majesty’s being an exemplar of wisdom and strength!” They say, with the sweetest smile on their face, to which Clotted Cream is startled to see. He then quickly and smoothly returns to his confident (and cocky) smile.

“Hmm... Our warriors are strong, and our blades are sharp indeed.”

Something about this answer left Bubs with a small pit in their stomach... (I think the king is catching onto your plan, Clotted Cream...)

“All this time, you have been defending the continent bravely. Our own Republic owes the Dark Cacao Kingdom it’s safety!” (Clotted Cream... Clotty... please don’t tell me...)

“Yet I cannot help but wonder... Where does the source of such great strength lie?” (You’re not even holding back on this...) Bubs’ body language remains the same, but the eyes are the windows to the soul, and while it’s not obvious, it’s clear that their stare is one of judgment.

He continues on with how powerful he must be, even a king with a sword just like Dark Cacao, is to do all the things he’s done, and he asks where he gets this power, suggesting that it might even be the sword itself. Bubs internally facepalms...

King Dark Cacao suddenly shifts into a more defensive stance, “!!! Such uncanny interest in my sword...! Are you, too, tempted by it’s magical powers?” (Oh fridge...) He points his sword at Clotty’s neck, at which, Bubs gets in between him and the sword. (Oh, fridge! Why am I shielding him?! He deserves getting a crack in the cream-maker for that stunt!)

Clotty very nervously says, “... T-tempted?” He stumbles on his words before completing his sentence, his voice cracking from the shock, “No, no, not at all! I offer my apologies for causing a misunderstanding. I was merely... curious about the secret to your land’s greatness.” Bubs actually facepalms, finally figuratively breaking under the pressure.

“Great power brings nothing but dangers and harships of equal scale. Many a covetous gaze has been aimed at this blade, yet none have managed to wrest it from my hand.” Dark Cacao’s voice becomes dark and dangerous, “You, too, should not try. Unless you are prepared for the consequences of your actions...”

Bubs defensively says, “Your Majesty! Please, he had no covetous nor malicious intents with his query! (or at least, I pray to whatever’s up there...)”

Dark Cacao backs the sword away from them, after all, letting it be so close to them would essentially be giving them the chance to grab it. He then warns Clotted Cream, “Do not query about this sword for you are in no right to claim it.”

Clotted Cream apologizes, his voice still shaky and more cautious, “I-I... I apologize for my... intrusion. Clearly, my curiousity clouded my judgment. I hope Your Majesty understands.”

Bubs finally steps down from their defensive stance and goes back to his side.

“Good day, sir! I look forward to meeting you again at the council.” There was still a hint of anxiety in his voice, but it was well-hidden this time.

Dark Cacao then speaks again, “And I pray that an ex-knight, such as yourself, will protect better Cookies in the future...”

Bubs stares at him shocked, and only replies, “Do not worry, Your Majesty... he’s not... that bad...”

“I would beg to differ.” Dark Cacao says, begrudgingly

Bubs cautiously says their farewells to Dark Cacao and them and Clotty leave, shaken from that encounter.

“W... what was that...?”

“Nothing... this stays between the three of us...” He says in a demanding tone.

“Okay, but what was that approach...? I could see from a mile away he wasn’t going to be okay with that kind of question...”

“Well, I’m sorry I didn’t think that far ahead...” He says, sarcastically.

“... You really are just a sweet-talker...” Bubs blows a bubble before quickly popping it.

Clotted Cream only glares at them, at which Bubs raises their hands, then gestures that their lips are zipped. (There, I’ll keep this your dumb little secret...)

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“No matter what you say, my sword shall be sheathed.” Financier Cookie says, as stoic as always.

“Pshh! What a stubborn Cookie! W-wait here! We’ll have a bite, then we’ll be back!” Crunchy Chip Cookie and his Cream Wolf run to the tents to sustain themselves, preparing for a fight that Ser Financier will not partake in unless they are well-sustained enough. As a Paladin, her code forbids her from fighting those in need.

So why isn’t she being allowed to stop that meddling Cookie?

More importantly, how could the Consul trust such an untrustworthy Cookie to take a walk with him? They’ve both seen what they can do, and they clearly aren’t in need of much help...

So why?

She has to obey, as his guard, and as her duty. If he says he’ll handle this, she’ll only be keeping a sharp eye on the assassin, Bubblegum Cookie, and if they try to hurt the Consul, Financier will repay that pain over a hundred times over.

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“So, why are we going to the academy?” Bubs wonders.

“I’m hoping to meet Pure Vanilla Cookie, and I can only assume he’d be here.”

“Hmm... well, he is just a wizard now... he probably just teaches...”

Suddenly, they both hear sighs and cheers, all for the blond, prince-like Cookie who’s charm has reached around the entire kingdom... Bubs felt like his personal bodyguard, the protector of a celebrity or something (I honestly wonder why he let Financier on her own? He really underestimates this kind of stuff).

“Oh? Mister Clotted Cream Cookie? What brings you to the Magic Academy?”

Clotted Cream answered, his voice so gentle, “I was hoping to talk to Pure Vanilla Cookie. Can I find him here, perchance?”

One young Cookie answers, “Pure Vanilla Cookie is teaching a class right now. You’ll find him in the lecture room!”

“Thank you kindly.” He places his hand under his chin, sending about a hundred of his fanclub swooning... (Ugh... you all are too easy...)

“There he is! But the lesson has just begun. I’m afraid you will have to wait.” Bubs suddenly gets close to the door, and listens in on the lecture... something about restoration magic? Wiz taught them about it before and how, in order for the healing spell to work, you have to care for the object... They remember using it for the little headpiece that Grapefruit gave to them... It was made out of Grapefruit too, designed specifically for them, and that if they ever need to have it fixed, just restore it with a spell, especially since they cared about her so much... happier times.

They watch as the students individually practice the spell on some old raisins, some struggling, and other excelling in the spell. Bubblegum feels so proud, especially of the one who immediately asked how to turn it back into a raisin.

“Haha, it must be a great pleasure to study under such a splendid teacher!” Clotted Cream respectfully says.

Bubblegum only replies, “I agree... it sounds fun to go back sometimes... although, I’d prefer not being stressed so much with schedules.”

“But we should not bother him. We shall pay him a visit later.”

“Agreed.” They both try to leave... keyword: try, because a large group of his fangroup of Cookies started questioning Bubs about who they were.

“Who are you?” 

“Why are you with Clotted Cream Cookie?” 

“What happened to Financier?” 

“Are you two dating?”

Bubs felt an overwhelming pit in their stomach. They were never used to this kind of attention... let alone being asked about personal things.

“They’re my partner.” Clotted Cream says, shocking everyone, including his “so-called” partner.

A sudden cacophonic noise of disappointment, shock, and rejection starts brewing, and Clotted Cream, though much more assertively, says,

“They’re my partner, and I would prefer it if you didn’t overwhelm them with your assumptions. Now we will be taking our leave.” He then holds on to Bubs’ back to support them, and they walk away to the Plaza, where there’ll be free space and fresh air, something Bubs desparately needs right now. As they walk, they hear whispers of how they wouldn’t even fit together, and how they would suit him so much better.

Bubs glares at them as they pass, hostility clear in their eyes, and they shut up immediately.

“You didn’t need to scare them, you know?”

“You didn’t need to call me your partner... we’re not even that close...”

“Well, you are for today...”

Bubs sighs, “Well clearly, I’ll have a LOT of competition.”

Clotty laughs softly and asks them, “Are you perhaps jealous?”

Bubs laughs back, and sarcastically replies, “In your dreams, princey...” They look away, a smirk forming in between their blushing cheeks.

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Bubs takes nice deep breaths before trudging on to the Plaza, who surprisingly has the Hollyberry Cookie in it, playing with the children and teaching them life lessons, like how to protect yourself from adversaries. Just the Cookie Clotty was looking for.

“You seem tired, should I leave you here to rest, or-?”

“Nah, I’ve gone through worse... And I’m not that tired. Just slightly shocked...”

Suddenly, they both hear a very familiar voice, one that’s always flat and monotonous, say, “More youngsters... and Hollyberry Cookie.”

Hollyberry, in her usual boisterous tone, sweetly lectures the children, “No no no! You had the perfect opportunity to attack from the right flank!” She raises her shield and her smile, as per the usual, “And swing harder! At this rate, you wouldn’t be able to stand a chance against a baby Cake Monster!” She readies her shield, and commands,

“Again!”

The young Cookie, whom had a bag over her head for some reason, suddenly said, “But my hits are nothing against your shield!”

Another Cookie added, “She’s right! Nothing can get past that shield!”

“Real enemies will not go easy on you in a real battle!”

Bubs suddenly interjects, “That’s right! You can’t go into a fight expecting it to be an easily won challenge, you have to give it your all, even when it seems like the opponent is easily defeated! You must be able to protect yourself, use your surroundings to your advantage, find the weaknesses of your enemies and exploit them for your advantage!” Clotted Cream is surprised at this sudden speech, and Financier crosses her arms.

Hollyberry cheers, “Haha! I like this one! A real warrior, from what I can tell! And they are right! Try! Experiment! Again!”

Once Bubs finally returns, Clotty gives them a round of applause, “Well-worded speech, though morbid.”

“There is a beauty in the art of combat, in how it’s like a dance of knowing how to subdue your enemy.” Financier adds.

“Or crushing their hopes and dreams!” Bubs proudly proclaims. Financier only glares at them.

“Oh? Clotted Cream Cookie! As you can see, we were in the middle of a ‘battle!’” She laughs, “Let’s wrap this up, kids!” Some of the young Cookies say their goodbyes, one hugging Hollyberry as their farewell (that’s so adorable!!!), and another one running over to Bubs to ask how they know about these kinds of stuff. They only answer with, “It’s something you learn the more you fight, and not everyone has the same style, so you should always be prepared to learn on the fly!”

“But remember, sometimes, you should take mercy on your enemies.” Financier suddenly interjects, and Bubs begrudgingly agrees. The kid runs happily away, as Bubs and Financier share a quiet moment with each other (oh, Witches, she’s so pretty~).

“A rare chance to witness this legendary shield in action!” (Oh snakespit, not again...) “That gem in the center has a very peculiar gleam to it... Enchanted, I take it?”

“That one is no simple stone! It’s my Soul Jam!”

(Oh, thank the oven, she’s much more negotiable...)

Clotted Cream asks cautiously, “It’s light is a bit dim... Is something wrong?”

“Ah, that? You see, the power it used to hold shattered. But with the help of a rather unexpected group of friends, I managed to retrieve a fair amount.”

“And I can only assume that’s GingerBrave?” Bubs proudly queries, knowing that he had helped so many people.

“Oh? Are you two acquainted? Well, any friend of GingerBrave is a friend of mine, too!” She proclaims, which leaves Bubs with a wide grin.

They didn’t see it, but Clotty basically had a beet for a face because he saw them smile, and even Financier had nearly broken her streak as a stoic Cookie seeing it.

“And yes, it may not shine as bright as in its better days, but make no mistake; my shield can still surprise you! Haha! I can still protect anyone from any attack!”

Bubs’ heart flutters after hearing that, and they feel like the light at the end of the tunnel grows ever closer.

One of the children who stayed then whines, “That’s not fair! How are we supposed to win?”

Financier then speaks, “Just because someone’s shield is impenetrable does not mean that you can not find another way around it.”

“Ooh, this one’s a fighter, too! I like you already!”

“The Queen Mother and renowned Hero herself, yet still, she makes time to play with young Cookies. No wonder the Hollyberrians adore you!” He sighs... “I simply cannot wait to meet the other two of the Five.”

“Golden Cheese Cookie and White Lily Cookie, huh?”

Bubs, Financier, Clotty, and all the children then sit down on the warm floor and listen as Hollyberry recounts the two missing Cookies' personas and their past together, how Golden Cheese was rich, both in fun and in actual riches, and how White Lily always drifted around the world, travelling to seek the truth. Bubs could not be more intrigued than they are right now.

“Parting ways with close friends is never easy... you must be missing them greatly.” Clotty comforts Hollyberry, at which she says, her tone more hopeful,

“Well, you never know... After all, fate allowed me, Pure Vanilla Cookie, and Dark Cacao Cookie to reunite once more! One day, we’ll have a chance to greet our dear old friends once more, I’m sure of it!”

Suddenly, a child asks, “Hollyberry Cookie, are you gonna spar with us or not?”

“Coming!” She cheerfully replies, “Sorry! Looks like I have to go!”

“It was an honor!” Bubs thanks the elder, and the three wave their goodbyes to the children and Hollyberry Cookie. Bubs’ heart warms knowing someone like that is here to protect all those she can, and they pray that they-

“... can be just like that.” Bubs looks up, and sees Clotty finishing his and, unknowingly, their own sentence, catching them off-guard. Bubs smiles, seeing him be such a kind Cookie underneath all that poise and arrogance.

"See, you aren't that bad~" Bubs says, out loudly, and by accident, as could be told when looking at the suddenly beet red face they had.

“Are there intruders on our ship?” Financier interrupts Bubs, bringing attention to certain small Cookie figures in the ship rode on by the Crème Republic representatives of the council.

Clotted Cream requests, “Perhaps they are just citizens of the Kingdom... let us be civil.”

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“Those are definitely children in there...”

Financier said, her tone more cheerful than usual, “I’ll deal with them...” She hopped on aboard, and asked, “What is going on here?” She says, delight clear at the smallest curve of her lips and her more cheery way of asking the query.

“ZOINKS! O-oh, sorry! We were just...” The child, in a panic, tried to explain why he and his friend were in their ship, before Clotted Cream entered and queried:

“Hello! How do you like our airship, friends?”

“S-sorry! We didn’t touch anything! I swear!” The other child pleaded.

“Ha ha... Don’t worry! You may look around as much as you please.” Clotted Cream said in a calm and understanding tone.

“... We can?!”

Clotty gives a gentle response, “Of course! Flying vessels like this one are the pride of our Crème Republic.”

Bubs enters and looks around... seeing the beauty of the ship, the clean and decorated walls and floors, the size of the ship... they wish they were a pirate, because, as those pirate movies always say about their ships, “she’s a beaut, ain’t she?”

Clotted Cream then ponders, and asks them about how Cookies like them, likely ones who don’t have an airship, were able to get to the floating-in-the-sky kingdom.

“We found a shiny stone in our village down below! Then, a column of light appeared from the stone... and then, we used it to come here!”

“It was just like magic! I think it was magic... right?”

“Hm... ‘it’s like a magic column of light?’” Bubs says, curious about what happened.

“What a curious story! I bet it was very fun! But, I am afraid I must take my leave. Hope you have a great time here!”

The trio leave, watching the children have fun. Financier taps Clotted Cream on the arm, and asks,

“Consul, sir. How is it possible to travel via a... ‘column of light?’ I don’t believe we have such technology in the Republic. How did these Cookies...?”

“Luck. Mere luck and coincidence.” Clotted Cream’s voice suddenly becomes cold and Bubs becomes shocked at this sudden shift in tone. As he explains to Financier what he’s gathered, Bubs is thinking about how that shift was so... unexpected. Their was a very faint hint of purple forming at their cheeks the more they thought of the swap.

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Clotted Cream, Financier, and Bubblegum return to Clotty’s chamber door.

“Thank you for your time, Bubblegum Cookie.”

“No problem, Clotty-” Bubs stretches their pronunciation and finishes, “-ed Cream... Cookie.”

Financier raises an eyebrow, but says nothing, per usual.

“I just want to ask... what was my contribution to your morning?”

“Um...” Is Clotted Cream’s blushing answer, before he composes himself and continues, “So that I know I can trust you.”

“So you made me walk with you the entire day, doing absolutely nothing but enjoying time with each other?”

“Yes?”

Bubs chuckles. “So... do you trust me?”

“Now, I do.”

“Bad decision, but alright...” Clotty chuckles, and Bubs smiles slightly wider seeing him do so...

“So, I assume this is where we part ways?”

“Yes... I assume so... unless you want to stay?" Suddenly, a hint of mischief is apparent in his voice, "Or maybe you’ll be back, just without me knowing again...”

“Yeah. hehe...”

The two give each other a hug, Bubs gives Financier a handshake, and Clotty says,

“Goodbye, my ‘partner.’” Bubs chuckles for the millionth time, and replies,

“See you soon, Clotty...” They wave goodbye to their... friend, they guess...

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“So... how’d your date go?” GingerBrave eagerly asked, sitting on a chair backwards.

“Haha... funny, kid...” They roll their eyes, but the blush in their cheeks makes GingerBrave think that there’s something more.

“There may be something there that wasn’t there before~” GingerBrave sings gleefully to tease Bubs, and Bubs groans in response.

“Can you just get ready, the council’s about to start.”

“You just can’t wait to see him again, don’t you?”

“Kid, you might be next on my list of targets if you don’t stop...” Brave zips their lip and winks. Bubs laughs in response, then don their spy gear.

[theballadofdrjekyll]

He has 2% connivingness,

The clotted evil truthers ran with that LMAO../lh

Hes a consul, what do you expect? He has to be persuasive and stuff, especially with how he’s been raised and who he’s surrounded by

[cookie-run-kingdom-story]

Council of Heroes: Day 3

(Screenshots from Royal Mike!)

Financier Cookie: Good morning, sir. How was your night’s rest? Financier Cookie: I am sure you have an eventful day ahead. Clotted Cream Cookie: I must acquire more information on that so-called “Soul Jam.” It will be a busy day indeed. Financier Cookie: Understood. I will make all necessary arrangements, sir. Clotted Cream Cookie: Soul Jam… The receptacle of an ancient mystery. Clotted Cream Cookie: A vessel of pure power harnessed by true heroes only. I must uncover your secrets…! Clotted Cream Cookie: Financier Cookie. You have been keeping a keen eye on the matters in the castle ever since we arrived. Were you able to find any traces of our objective? Financier Cookie: I noticed that the Ancient Heroes’ treasured weapons emanate great power, sir. Financier Cookie: However, my primary duty is your safety, sir. I am afraid I possess too few facts to aid you in your pursuit of knowledge. Financier Cookie: If you have any further instructions for me… Clotted Cream Cookie: Ha ha, I understand. Clotted Cream Cookie: Let us step outside! It is a wonderful day for a stroll around the castle grounds!

Strawberry Crepe Cookie: The WaffleBots are marvels of Vanillian magichanical engineering! Strawberry Crepe Cookie: A pioneering, innovative, state-of-the-art fusion of enchanting and technology! And I am the only Cookie around capable of keeping everything in tip-top condition! That’s right! Espresso Cookie: Intriguing. Espresso Cookie: What kind of force puts them in motion? Strawberry Crepe Cookie: Oh, oh, you wanna see the schematics?! Espresso Cookie: Let’s see… Outdated formulas… Bah, suboptimal enchanting techniques… Pshh, they could have simply utilized cream as a cooling agent. Espresso Cookie: …Indeed, it’s a marvel that these derelict machines are still functional! Clotted Cream Cookie: Strawberry Crepe Cookie, Espresso Cookie! I have been searching for you! Strawberry Crepe Cookie: Oh! 2% Connivingness! Come in! Clotted Cream Cookie: …Yet again, you see right through me, young friend. Ha ha! Clotted Cream Cookie: Hm, I wonder… Have you ever analyzed any of the Ancient Heroes’ dough? An inquisitive mind such as yourself must have found them rather fascinating! Strawberry Crepe Cookie: I tried, ALRIGHT! But even my superb equipment has its limits against them! Strawberry Crepe Cookie: Some kind of overwhelming power almost fried it! And I never tried again ever since… Clotted Cream Cookie: “Overwhelming power,” you say… Villager Cookie 1: Strawberry Crepe Cookie, you should see this…! One of the Wafflebots broke down while helping us build a house! Strawberry Crepe Cookie: WHAT? Did you feed the robot yucky raisins again?! They are PRECISION TOOLS! I told you A HUNDRED TIMES that you should treat them with CAUTION! Strawberry Crepe Cookie: UGH! Guess I must go and fix it, UH-GAIN! SO LONG! A little later…

Clotted Cream Cookie: The Ancients’ dough… Overwhelming power… What on Earthbread could Soul Jam be? Espresso Cookie: The data we’ve managed to gather indicates that Soul Jam’s main component could be Life Powder. Espresso Cookie: Highly compressed, this Life Powder-enriched jam crystallized into a hard candy-like state bearing the energy of Life itself. Espresso Cookie: However, despite our best efforts, we were unable to identify neither the origin of this substance nor how it was introduced to the Cookie Continent. Espresso Cookie: What we know for certain is that primordial Cookies regarded the Soul Jam as a gift from the gods. Clotted Cream Cookie: Power of an unknown origin… Clotted Cream Cookie: No wonder those who wield it are called “Heroes.” Espresso Cookie: I will summarize our findings in a written report, sir. Clotted Cream Cookie: Thank you. Until next time.

Clotted Cream Cookie: Ser Madeleine Cookie. It is strange to find you here in the Solarium of Unity all by yourself. Were you… sightseeing? Madeleine Cookie: Take a look, sire! Figures of the Five Heroes on the stained glass… Madeleine Cookie: Odd, is it not? The size and shape of these windows, the look of this glass… It all resembles the Republican style. Clotted Cream Cookie: True! Indeed, we are at the origin of our culture, my friend. Seeing with my own eyes where it all began is, by all means, humbling. Wistful, even. Madeleine Cookie: Have you had a chance to meet our home, Mansion Madeleine, sir? I cannot help but reminisce its* azure carpets and airy windows shedding warm sunlight…

*actual text

Clotted Cream Cookie: Home… Clotted Cream Cookie: Ser Madeleine Cookie, I’ve been meaning to ask… What was the reason for you and your… colleague’s departure from the Crème Republic? Clotted Cream Cookie: How did it happen that the two of you- Cookies of great merit without a doubt- were chosen among other Paladins and scientists? Madeleine Cookie: Oh, it happened before your appointment as Consul, sire. I trust you are well aware of the so-called “Light Fragment Incident,” right? Madeleine Cookie: Though it was just the slightest sliver of a Light Fragment, it could have resulted in our glorious Republic being completely wiped off the map! Clotted Cream Cookie: Yes, yes, of course. And it is you and Espresso Cookie we have to thank for our salvation, correct? Clotted Cream Cookie: And in the end, it was confirmed that the Light Fragments were, in fact, pieces of shattered Soul Jam? Madeleine Cookie: Yes, sir. Soul Jam shattered during the Dark Flour War, to be precise. Madeleine Cookie: A war Dark Enchantress Cookie started to gain control of all existing Soul Jam. Madeleine Cookie: Thanks to the Ancient Heroes’ collective efforts, the world as we know it exists to this day. However, pieces of Soul Jam were scattered across the entire continent. Clotted Cream Cookie: Could there be more of these Light Fragments in this land that are yet to be discovered? Clotted Cream Cookie: If such great power were to fall into the wrong hands… Without a doubt, it will cause catastrophic events! Clotted Cream Cookie: If but a small fraction of Soul Jam is capable of destroying the Crème Republic, finding and securing the remaining pieces is a matter of grave importance! Clotted Cream Cookie: Thank you for sharing this with me. It seems like this puzzle is finally coming together… Clotted Cream Cookie: Then why don’t we… Hm? Are you not coming, Ser Madeleine Cookie? Madeleine Cookie: I’d like to stay a bit more and look at the stained glass! Please, do not wait for me and go first, sire! Clotted Cream Cookie: Very well! It was a pleasure, Ser Madeleine Cookie.

Wildberry Cookie: …Ugh… Wildberry Cookie: (I knew I shouldn’t have drank berry juice…) Wildberry Cookie: Perhaps, I should check on the Queen Mother… Sounds from the Outside: Ha ha! Yeah, this shield has seen some fight! But it’s still hard enough to block any attack! Wildberry Cookie: Hollyberry Cookie is outside! Ugh… I feel dry as a bone. I must find something to drink. Wildberry Cookie: Juice… Wildberry Cookie: More… juice… Wildberry Cookie: Juice again…?! Wildberry Cookie: I must… dispose of these.

Dark Cacao Cookie: An unexpected visitor. Dark Cacao Cookie: Clotted Cream Cookie. What brings you here? Clotted Cream Cookie: Oh, I find a good walk in the morning rather beneficial! Besides, there is much I would like to learn about the fabled Dark Cacao Kingdom! Clotted Cream Cookie: Your Majesty has managed to keep the throne for such a long time, warding off dire monsters and beasts… Your Cookies must respect you greatly. And that impressive wall…! Clotted Cream Cookie: The warriors of Dark Cacao are famous for their impeccable discipline. All thanks to Your Majesty, an exemplar of wisdom and strength! Dark Cacao Cookie: Hmm. Our warriors are strong and our blades are sharp indeed. Clotted Cream Cookie: All this time, you have been defending the continent bravely. Our own Republic owes the Dark Cacao Kingdom its safety! Clotted Cream Cookie: Yet, I cannot help but wonder… Where does the source of such great strength lie? Clotted Cream Cookie: Protecting the whole world with nothing but a sword is no simple feat, even for a great king such as yourself. Tell me, what fuels your might? Or is it… the sword itself? Dark Cacao Cookie: !!! Such uncanny interest in my sword…! Dark Cacao Cookie: Are you, too, tempted by its magical powers? Clotted Cream Cookie: …Tempted? No, not at all! I offer my apologies for causing a misunderstanding. I was merely… curious about the secret to your land’s greatness. Dark Cacao Cookie: Great power brings nothing but dangers and hardships of equal scale. Dark Cacao Cookie: Many a covetous gaze has been aimed at this blade, yet none have managed to wrest it from my hand. Dark Cacao Cookie: You too, should not try. Unless you are prepared for the consequences of your actions. Dark Cacao Cookie: Do not query about this sword for you are in no right to claim it. Clotted Cream Cookie: I-I… I apologize for my intrusion. Clearly, my curiosity clouded my judgment. I hope Your Majesty understands. Clotted Cream Cookie: Good day, sir. I look forward to meeting you again at the council.

Crunchy Chip Cookie: Huh? Is your Consul here? Financier Cookie: The Consul is a very busy Cookie. Whatever business you have, it will have to wait. Crunchy Chip Cookie: Nah, I’m not here for that creamy sort! I came to you! Financier Cookie: You see information? Crunchy Chip Cookie: That… spoon… scoon… scone thing you gave me? Believe me, I’m not here to ask for more! Yuck! Crunchy Chip Cookie: Too sweet! BUT! You eat sweets like that all the time, right? I wanna see how you fare in battle! Crunchy Chip Cookie: Thing is, I can’t fight with your Consul Cookie. That’s why I’m asking YOU to spar with me! Financier Cookie: …Hm. You are here to spar with me? Financier Cookie: Very well. I accept your request. Financier Cookie: What was it you said? “Sweets corrupt the mind and hinder the body?” Financier Cookie: I suggest that you demonstrate your best skill. For my battle prowess is neither hindered, nor corrupted. Crunchy Chip Cookie: Ha ha! Draw your sword! Someone’s Tummy: *grumbling sounds* Crunchy Chip Cookie: Huh… What was that?! Financier Cookie: That sound… Cream Wolf: GRR GRRRR!

Financier Cookie: It seems like your wolf is starved. Crunchy Chip Cookie: Eh… Ahem… Right… Not the best timing… Crunchy Chip Cookie: But it’s nothing! For the stoic Dark Cacao Warriors do not fear hunger! Financier Cookie: The animal looks too exhausted to carry your weight. Perhaps, you should consider dismounting. Crunchy Chip Cookie: This wolf is my brother-in-arms! We fight as one! Crunchy Chip Cookie: Hunger? Cold? We don’t know what those words mean! Right, buddy? Cream Wolf: *Whimpers… but growls* Crunchy Chip Cookie: That’s the spirit! Now, draw your sword and defend yourself! Financier Cookie: I refuse to fight. Financier Cookie: I am a Paladin. My code forbids me from fighting the hungry. Crunchy Chip Cookie: WHAT? What’s that you’re saying?! Financier Cookie: No matter what you say, my sword will remain sheathed. Crunchy Chip Cookie: Pshh! What a stubborn Cookie! W-wait here! We’ll have a bite and be back!

Black Raisin Cookie: Phew… GingerBrave: Black Raisin Cookie! Hi! GingerBrave: Huh? Something troubling you? Black Raisin Cookie: It’s just as… I looked at the Vanilla Castle today, and it got me thinking. GingerBrave: It’s VERY crowded lately, isn’t it?! Nice to see this place so full of life! Black Raisin Cookie: Indeed. A lot has happened over the last few days. Black Raisin Cookie: Look around: this land is no longer dangerous, and the Cookies are finally looking into tomorrow with hope… Black Raisin Cookie: I only wish the future were as bright as they think… Ha ha! I must be worrying too much! GingerBrave: Black Raisin Cookie…! GingerBrave: No, no! I couldn’t agree more! We must be brave and keep running into the future! GingerBrave: Ha ha! I feel braver just by saying that! Why don’t we go and see what’s happening around here! Black Raisin Cookie: Alright! Good idea! Never skip a patrol, huh!

Villager Cookie 4: Oh? Mister Clotted Cream Cookie? What brings you to the Magic Academy? Clotted Cream Cookie: I was hoping to talk to Pure Vanilla Cookie. Can I find him here, perchance? Villager Cookie 4: Pure Vanilla Cookie is teaching a class right now. You’ll find him in the lecture room! Clotted Cream Cookie: Thank you kindly. Villager Cookie 4: There he is! But the lesson has just begun. I’m afraid you will have to wait. Pure Vanilla Cookie: …we will finally cover the long-awaited subject of Restoration Magic! Pure Vanilla Cookie: I will now ask you to focus on the object in front of you, think how much you care about it. Then, cast the healing spell. Villager Cookie 5: Rah! Villager Cookie 2: Hyah! Aww… It’s just too hard! Pure Vanilla Cookie: Remember to concentrate on how precious the object is. Why don’t we try the spell on this raisin? Villager Cookie 2: Okay. I’ll try again! Concentrate… Focus… Hyah! Villager Cookie 2: Oh wow! The raisin has become a ripe, plump grape! Villager Cookie 5: Woooow! You must have really liked that raisin! Villager Cookie 2: But… raisins are so much yummier than fresh grapes. How do I turn it back to a raisin? Pure Vanilla Cookie: Good job, students! Keep your enthusiasm and you will become powerful wizards in no time! Clotted Cream Cookie: Ha ha! It must be a great pleasure to study under such a splendid teacher! Clotted Cream Cookie: But I will not bother you. I shall pay you a visit later. Clotted Cream Cookie: Good luck, students! Villager Cookie 4: Come back soon!

Villager Cookie 3: Hiyah! Taaaaake THIS! Here I come! Financier Cookie: More youngsters… And Hollyberry Cookie. Hollyberry Cookie: No no no! You had a perfect opportunity to attack from the right flank! Hollyberry Cookie: And swing harder! At this rate, you won’t stand a chance against a baby Cake Monster! Again! Villager Cookie 3: But my hits are nothing against your shield! Villager Cookie 2: She’s right! Nothing can get past that shield! Hollyberry Cookie: Real enemies will not go easy on you in a real battle! You have to get it your all! Try! Experiment! AGAIN! Clotted Cream Cookie: Your Highness looks preoccupied… We can come another time. Hollyberry Cookie: Oh? Clotted Cream Cookie! As you can see, we were in the middle of a “battle.” Ha ha! Let’s wrap this up, kids! Clotted Cream Cookie: A rare chance to witness this legendary shield in action! That gem in the center has a very peculiar gleam to it… Enchanted, I take it? Hollyberry Cookie: That one is no simple stone! It’s my Soul Jam! Clotted Cream Cookie: Its light is a bit dim… Is something wrong? Hollyberry Cookie: Ah, that? You see, the power it used to hold shattered. Hollyberry Cookie: But with the help of a rather unexpected group of new friends. I managed to retrieve a fair amount! Hollyberry Cookie: yes, well, it may not shine as bright as in its better days, but make no mistake: my shield can still surprise you! Ha ha! I can still protect anyone from any attack! Villager Cookie 3: That’s not fair? How are we supposed to win?! Clotted Cream Cookie: The Queen Mother and renowned Hero herself, yet she still makes time to play with young Cookies. No wonder the Hollyberrians adore you! Clotted Cream Cookie: I simply cannot wait to meet the other two of the Five! Hollyberry Cookie: Golden Cheese Cookie and White Lily Cookie, huh? Hollyberry Cookie: Yes, Golden Cheese Cookie was a fun sort! All shiny and glittery… covered in golden cheese powder! She enjoyed her splendor, her riches. Hollyberry Cookie: Although she never came on time, she was a good friend! Hollyberry Cookie: And White Lily Cookie… Yes, I always felt like her thoughts dwelled someplace else. Even that last time we met… Hollyberry Cookie: She would always disappear out of the blue to wander the world in search of Truth… Hollyberry Cookie: Only to come back when her friends needed her help the most! Clotted Cream Cookie: Parting ways with close friends is never easy. You must be missing them greatly. Hollyberry Cookie: Well, you never know… After all, fate allowed me, Pure Vanilla Cookie, and Dark Cacao Cookie to reunite once more! Hollyberry Cookie: One day we’ll have a chance to greet our dear old friends once more, I’m sure of it! Villager Cookie 2: Hollyberry Cookie! Are you gonna spar with us or not?! Hollyberry Cookie: COMING! Sorry! Looks like I have to go!

Villager Cookie 5: Whoah! Just look at the size of this airship! Villager Cookie 5: Clotted Cream Cookie and Financier Cookie came on it straight from the Republic! Villager Cookie 1: I wanna go and take a closer look! Villager Cookie 5: Whoah! This ship is enormous! How does it even fly?! And look at those sleek and shiny wings! What a beauty! Villager Cookie 1: Will I ever get to travel the world on one of these…? Villager Cookie 1: Ha ha! All abroad! Anchors aweigh! Plot the course beyond the horizon! Financier Cookie: What is going on here? Villager Cookie 1: YIKES! O-oh, sorry! We were just… Clotted Cream Cookie: Hello! How do you like our airship, friends? Villager Cookie 5: S-sorry! We didn’t touch anything! I swear! Clotted Cream Cookie: Ha ha! Don’t worry! You may look around as much as you please! Villager Cookie 5: We can?! Clotted Cream Cookie: Of course! Flying vessels like this one are the pride of our Crème Republic! Villager Cookie 1: Whoah! C’mon y’all! Let’s take a look inside! Clotted Cream Cookie: Hm, the Vanilla Castle is floating in the air… Can you tell me how you got here in the first place…? It… does not seem like you had an airship of your own. Villager Cookie 1: We found a shiny stone in our village down below! Villager Cookie 1: Then a column of light appeared from the stone… Then we used it to come here, yes! Villager Cookie 5: It was just like magic! I think it was magic? Right? Guys Clotted Cream Cookie: “A column of light,” huh… Clotted Cream Cookie: What a curious story! I bet it was very fun! But I am afraid I must take my leave, But I hope you have a great time here. Financier Cookie: Consul, sir. How is it possible to travel via a… “”column of light?” Financier Cookie: I don’t believe we have such  technology in the Republic. How did these Cookies…. Clotted Cream Cookie: Luck. Mere luck and coincidence. I surmised the ”stone ” they thought they found was a Light Fragment, a piece of shattered Soul Jam.

Clotted Cream Cookie: Ser Financier Cookie. There is something I must discuss with Madeleine and Espresso Cookie. Clotted Cream Cookie: Could you summon them to my chambers? Financier Cookie: Right away, Consul Espresso Cookie: You wished to see us? Clotted Cream Cookie: A matter of great importance has been on my mind ever since my arrival at the Vanilla Kingdom. And I believe… Yes, I must bring it up at the council. Clotted Cream Cookie: For the betterment of our Republic. Madeleine Cookie: Hmm?! What could it be…? Clotted Cream Cookie: I will be frank with you…

Madeleine Cookie: WHAT?! The Heroes will never…! Clotted Cream Cookie: Then we must find a way to convince them otherwise. If we allow such power to concentrate in their hands only, it will inevitably bring… undesirable side effects. Espresso Cookie: Yes, you are right. I see no other viable option. Madeleine Cookie: What? And you too?! But how…?! Clotted Cream Cookie: Words are a powerful tool. Clotted Cream Cookie: I trust you will support my proposition at the council? Madeleine Cookie: I will try… But I simply cannot see how it can be done! Clotted Cream Cookie: Naturally, it will not be an easy task. But nothing is simple in the world of politics. Yet it still warrants an attempt! Financier Cookie: Consul, sir. The council is about to begin. Other delegates have already gathered. Clotted Cream Cookie: Then it is time to join them. Clotted Cream Cookie: Today’s decisions will shape the future of the Crème Republic and the whole Cookie World.

Pure Vanilla Cookie: It seems like everyone here… Then let the second session begin! Pure Vanilla Cookie: Today, we must decide which kingdom will lead the expedition to the continent of Beast-Yeast in search of Dark Enchantress Cookie. Is everyone of the same opinion as yesterday? Hollyberry Cookie: Of course! We can handle any danger! Dark Cacao Cookie: No, our warriors are better suited for this mission! Clotted Cream Cookie: If I may, please? The Crème Republic has a new proposition. Clotted Cream Cookie: We believe it is in everyone’s best interest to select the fittest candidates from each nation for combined action. Clotted Cream Cookie: Each one of us has their strengths and weaknesses. Playing these cards smart seems to be the optimal course of action. Wildberry Cookie: Combined action…? Crunchy Chip Cookie: Go together with the Hollyberrians? Hm… Pure Vanilla Cookie: What a great proposition! After all, we share the responsibility to save our world! Pure Vanilla Cookie: Our goal is one: protecting Cookiekind from Dark Enchantress Cookie’s evil! Hollyberry Cookie: Then when do we start? Who’s willing to make contact with the dragons?

Clotted Cream Cookie: Before we proceed further, there is another matter I would like us to discuss. Clotted Cream Cookie: As our esteemed Pure Vanilla Cookie mentioned, indeed, we all share a collective responsibility. We must provide the xpedition with everything necessary to ensure its success. Clotted Cream Cookie: These Cookies will need power to fight and protect themselves. But where to find such power? We believe there is a solution… Dark Cacao Cookie: And what is this… solution? Clotted Cream Cookie: There is no source of power greater than Soul Jam harnessed by the Five Ancient Heroes. Clotted Cream Cookie: But what if this Soul Jam could be divided and shared by all? Imagine the possibilities! Clotted Cream Cookie: Yes, it will be no easy feat to perform such a procedure here. But it could be done with the help of the Crème Republic’s technological advancements! Clotted Cream Cookie: So I ask forthright. Will you share your Soul Jam for the greater good? Pure Vanilla Cookie: I beg your pardon? Hollyberry Cookie: What?! You want the Soul Jam?! Dark Cacao Cookie: Are you out of your mind?!

Hollyberry Cookie: Do you even realize what you’re asking for? Hollyberry Cookie: Wars started because of Soul Jam! This is insanity! Dark Cacao Cookie: What a preposterous idea! Dark Cacao Cookie: To share our Soul Jam?! Impossible! Pure Vanilla Cookie: Clotted Cream Cookie. I trust this is not all that you have to say. Pure Vanilla Cookie: There must be another reason for your proposition, isn’t there? Clotted Cream Cookie: Venerable Heroes! Believe me, I understand completely how outlandish my proposition might sound. Clotted Cream Cookie: However, allow me to remind you that one of the main purposes for this council is to find means to guarantee the success of our endeavor. Clotted Cream Cookie: Just a fraction of your strength divided among our forces will dramatically increase the chances of our survival. Madeleine Cookie: Please forgive my interruption, Consul. Espresso Cookie and I have just returned from another expedition. Madeleine Cookie: We have witnessed the might of Dark Enchantress Cookie’s armies firsthand: hordes of monsters from other dimensions under her control! Madeleine Cookie: There are Cookies in dire need of our help all across the world! And we must do all in our power to provide aid! Madeleine Cookie: We have warriors fighting as we speak at the far frontiers of Earthbread. They need weapons, they need this strength! Hollyberry Cookie: Yes, yes, we understand! Of course, we must help everyone! But you are asking us to hand over our Soul Jam to you and your Republic! Why?

Espresso Cookie: Advanced equipment is required to analyze the Soul Jam. Espresso Cookie: Only the Crème Republic has such scientific capabilities. Pure Vanilla Cookie: And you need all three? Just one would be more than enough! Espresso Cookie: We believe that your Soul Jam has neither common properties, nor shows a common activation mechanism. Espresso Cookie: That is why it is crucial to have all available Soul Jam studied before we can distribute it among our forces. Dark Cacao Cookie: Madness! Hollyberry Cookie: Hmm… No, that won’t do. Clotted Cream Cookie: I am perfectly aware how difficult this decision might be. However… Clotted Cream Cookie: The shadow of war is hanging over us! Think of all the Cookies who we may lose to this war: think about our beautiful world we might lose. Would you not give everything to protect all that is dear to you…? Clotted Cream Cookie: Three Ancient Heroes harness the power of Soul Jam. But there are immeasurably more Cookies who risk losing their lives in the war to come! Clotted Cream Cookie: The enemy they will oppose is mighty and knows no mercy. What chance will they stand without the power of Soul Jam? Dark Cacao Cookie: I tire of listening to this nonsense. Dark Cacao Cookie: Enough is enough. Hollyberry Cookie: But you want to take our Soul Jam away for your “research”... Hollyberry Cookie: I’m afraid I can’t let that happen. Pure Vanilla Cookie: …My friends…! Clotted Cream Cookie: …To end the council on such a negative note…

Clotted Cream Cookie: It… was not entirely unexpected, but… I apologize to have caused such a quarrel. Pure Vanilla Cookie: This… isn't your fault. Pure Vanilla Cookie: What you propose… is understandable. Pure Vanilla Cookie: After my return, I refused to become king. All because I wanted to share with my fellow Cookies. Pure Vanilla Cookie: Because I wanted to use my power to create a better tomorrow for the generations to come, not just for a few. Pure Vanilla Cookie: But the power of Soul Jam comes at a cost. The terrible Dark Flour War started by Dark Enchantress Cookie in order to wrestle it from our hands serves as proof! Pure Vanilla Cookie: But it was we and we alone who fought in this war and witnessed its end… first hand. Pure Vanilla Cookie: I’m afraid Hollyberry Cookie and Dark Cacao Cookie will not be easy to convince. Clotted Cream Cookie: Then what of the other two Heroes? What of Golden Cheese Cookie and White Lily Cookie? Clotted Cream Cookie: I heard White Lily Cookie always appeared where and when she was needed the most. Clotted Cream Cookie: Perhaps, she may be able to provide a solution? Pure Vanilla Cookie: White Lily Cookie… will not come this time. Pure Vanilla Cookie: Some way to change my friends’ minds is… your only hope.

Clotted Cream Cookie: Lady Hollyberry Cookie? May we confer? Wildberry Cookie: What matter brings you here? Wildberry Cookie: The Queen Mother doesn’t wish to receive visitors today. Leave or you will be forced to leave. Hollyberry Cookie: Clotted Cream Cookie? Hollyberry Cookie: You want to talk? Go ahead then, speak! Clotted Cream Cookie: I apologize for my words at the council session. I admit, I was overly insistent. Hollyberry Cookie: Oh! Well. At times, words can be sharper than blades. Opinions sturdier than shields. But that’s the nature of conversation. Hollyberry Cookie: However, we cannot agree to your proposition. Hollyberry Cookie: Soul Jam is but a small trinket… But this small trinket caused great suffering in the past. Hollyberry Cookie: My family and I felt that in our very dough. Crumbles like that are not easily forgotten. Hollyberry Cookie: That is why we swore to keep our Soul Jam safe and secure. We simply cannot allow another tragedy to happen. Hollyberry Cookie: Do you understand? Clotted Cream Cookie: Thank you for sharing this with me. Perhaps, there is no other option for me but to think again. Hollyberry Cookie: I’m glad you see it that way! Next time, let’s have some juice together, eh?

Crunchy Chip Cookie: You… It’s you! Clotted Cream Cookie: I have come to speak to King Dark Cacao Cookie. Crunchy Chip Cookie: You dare come here having insulted His Majesty?! Dark Cacao Cookie: I have no time to hear any more of your pathetic excuses. Dark Cacao Cookie: I knew from the moment you pried about my sword you didn’t deserve even a pinch of my trust. And now you have revealed your true nature: conniving, hungry for power…! Dark Cacao Cookie: I know your deceitful kind oh so well! Dark Cacao Cookie: For you are not the first… Clotted Cream Cookie: Please, believe me. Our future is my only concern! After the research is complete, we would have returned the Soul Jam to its rightful owners. Dark Cacao Cookie: Lies! I can see your covetous motives right through those sweet words of yours. Dark Cacao Cookie: Out of my sight! Leave now or my soldiers will make sure no more Cookies suffer from your treachery! Clotted Cream Cookie: …Of course. I hope to see you at the council session tomorrow.

Madeleine Cookie: Ah, great deeds are never easy! Look at my blade! Doesn’t it look tarnished? Time to give it a good polish! Madeleine Cookie: Ha ha! That’s more like it! Indeed, my stunning reflection fills me with confidence! That’s right: the world hasn’t seen another Knight Commander like me! Financier Cookie: Ser Madeleine Cookie. Madeleine Cookie: Ah! Financier Cookie! How long have you been here? Madeleine Cookie: Do forgive me, for my Commander duties never cease to make me lose track of time! Financier Cookie: Hm, “self-admiration” was not part of our curriculum at the Academy… Financier Cookie: Naturally, a renowned Paladin such as yourself must be an example to all. Madeleine Cookie: Hm! Financier Cookie: For our sole mission is to spread the warmth of the Celestial Light to every corner of our world. Madeleine Cookie: Yes, yes! Financier Cookie: Become absorbed in petty everyday matters we must not. Instead, we work hard for the greater good of all Cookies… Financier Cookie: That is what I have been taught. Madeleine Cookie: Words of gold! Those serving an example to all must be perfect in all aspects! Don’t you agree? Financier Cookie: I must have misunderstood you, Ser Madeleine Cookie… Madeleine Cookie: Keeping my light always brilliant and bright is yet another mission of mine! Financier Cookie: Do forgive me, Ser Madeleine Cookie. Financier Cookie: May your strength never fails you, great Paladin. I shall leave you to your daily training. Madeleine Cookie: Ah! Speaking of which! Would you like to spar with me, Ser Financier Cookie?

Clotted Cream Cookie: Ah, GingerBrave! Greetings! Clotted Cream Cookie: What did you think of today’s session? GingerBrave: Clotted Cream Cookie! What you said today… GingerBrave: I could never have imagined you’d ask the Heroes to share their Soul Jam! Clotted Cream Cookie: I believe it is the hard choice we must make for the good of all. Clotted Cream Cookie: You fought against Dark Enchantress Cookie. What do YOU think? Will our forces be enough? GingerBrave: Dark Enchantress Cookie is very dangerous! She has giant Cake Monsters the size of a castle on her side, monsters hungry for Cookie crumbs! GingerBrave: Listen, I was thinking… GingerBrave: If only I were just A LITTLE stronger, just THIS MUCH! I could protect all my friends against Dark Enchantress Cookie…! GingerBrave: Together, we managed to defeat her back then… But if I was stronger, it wouldn’t have been that hard! GingerBrave: I think I understand what you wanted to say at the council! GingerBrave: But the war began because of Soul Jam! We have the Heroes back thanks to Soul Jam! They… won’t give it away so easily. Clotted Cream Cookie: Dark Enchantress Cookie’s return… You were there when she was resurrected, were you not? Clotted Cream Cookie: Can you elaborate on what transpired? GingerBrave: Oh… That… Well…

GingerBrave: Something happened… You know… Clotted Cream Cookie: What…? White Lily Cookie is… Dark Enchantress Cookie? Clotted Cream Cookie: I… I cannot believe it! GingerBrave: I know! We were shocked to find out! Clotted Cream Cookie: Does that mean… White Lily Cookie is no more? GingerBrave: That’s the thing… I can’t quite wrap my head around that myself! I saw Dark Enchantress with my own eyes but… White Lily Cookie’s spirit might still be out there somewhere! GingerBrave: I hope… Clotted Cream Cookie: What you have just told me… Clotted Cream Cookie: …is tragic, to say the least. Clotted Cream Cookie: …You have my gratitude, GingerBrave. I have learned an important truth, thanks to you.

Villager Cookie 3: Everyone is looking so blue! Villager Cookie 2: They were fine before the Council, that’s for sure! Villager Cookie 3: Hollyberry Cookie seems so gloomy! I-I’m too scared to ask her what happened… Villager Cookie 1: Even Pure Vanilla Cookie looks troubled… Villager Cookie 4: Something bad must’ve happened at that Council! Cookies: Hmmmmm… Villager Cookie 5: What should we do? Villager Cookie 5: I wish we could help everyone… But there’s only so much we can do. Villager Cookie 5: Let’s just keep doing our part! Villager Cookie 4: Our part? What’s that? Villager Cookie 3: I’ll prepare a nice hot meal! Villager Cookie 2: And I’ll make sure our inn looks neat and tidy! Villager Cookie 5: Right! Let’s do all we can to help the grown-ups focus on the Council! Villager Cookie 1: Oh! Why don’t we plant some flowers in the plaza? Everyone’s gonna like it! Villager Cookie 4: G-great idea…! Let’s do everything to make smile again…! Cookies: Yeah!

Black Raisin Cookie: I sense tension hanging in the air… Black Raisin Cookie: Both Pure Vanilla Cookie and Hollyberry Cookie… seem so troubled. Black Raisin Cookie: Will this Council end well? Oh, I feel so useless! GingerBrave: Black Raisin Cookie! What are you doing here? Black Raisin Cookie: Ah, GingerBrave! GingerBrave: Huh! Whoah! These are Candy Flowers that grow in our kingdom! Black Raisin Cookie: Hm? Candy Flowers? GingerBrave: Yeah! And they weren’t here just yesterday! Oooh, so nice and smooth! Black Raisin Cookie: (I was so absorbed in my thoughts I didn't even notice them…) GingerBrave: Look, I found a raisin! Why is there a raisin on the ground? Were they going to plant it too?! Black Raisin Cookie: …! The villagers…! Black Raisin Cookie: (Oh… Even the kids are trying to do their best to help! I must pull myself together!) Black Raisin Cookie: (GingerBrave, you have a talent for finding hope in the most unexpected places!) Black Raisin Cookie: Thank you, friend! GingerBrave: Huh? What for?! Black Raisin Cookie: Ha ha, for everything! Black Raisin Cookie: Time for my daily patrol. Care to join me?

Financier Cookie: Consul. Financier Cookie: An envoy from Elder Oyster Cookie is awaiting your audience. Clotted Cream Cookie: From the Republic? What is going on? Financier Cookie: The envoy is waiting inside.

Oyster Cookie’s Envoy: Pleased to meet you, Consul Clotted Cream Cookie. Oyster Cookie’s Envoy: Elder Oyster Cookie extends her best regards. Clotted Cream Cookie: Greetings! You have come a long way. To what do I owe the honor…? Oyster Cookie’s Envoy: Oyster Cookie expresses great interest in your progress. Clotted Cream Cookie: Tell the Elder that I have met the Paladin and the scientist. All goes according to the plan. Clotted Cream Cookie: Besides, I have managed to acquire a valuable piece of information. The situation is developing in our favor. Oyster Cookie’s Envoy: That is wonderful news! Oyster Cookie’s Envoy: Many eyes in the Republic are watching you most eagerly. Did you know? Oyster Cookie’s Envoy: Now, please excuse me. I have fulfilled my duty here. Clotted Cream Cookie: What an exhausting day. But… Clotted Cream Cookie: My work here will become the Republic’s greatest achievement! They will see.

[dumpster-of-the-lost-souls]

I’m putting my two cents here, I don’t think Clotted Cream cookie will be a bad guy. I think he is a genuine good guy. Yeah Strawberry Crepe cookie said he had 2% connivingness thats not necessarily a giant red flag. It honestly makes sense that he would be somewhat conniving. Politics isn’t black and white you need to be able to think on your feet and plan ahead and such to get ahead of your opponents.

Plus I don’t think with Affagatto being pretty recent they’d repeat a character role like that.

If he does end up being an antagonist I’ll accept I was wrong.

[stylinbreeze60]

Kenma’s connivingness, Part 2

[theballadofdrjekyll]

Oh my god another AroAce Clotted Cream truther hello

Anyways!! Onto prompts yes I think it’d be funny if the other elders had friendly relationships to Clotted. Caviar sees him as a son/younger siblings and during Clotted’s training as a kid he took him on his ship often because ”Custard the kid’s gotta learn his sea legs eventually” and Clotted hung onto the railing/Caviar’s coat for dear life for the first like 20 minutes before he slowly got his handling of it. Caviar also gives him affectionate head ruffles I don’t make the rules

Mulled Juice personally helped Clotted make his weird coat thing and while Mulled did refine everything and make it actually functional Clotted came up with most of the ideas for how it should look and work! Mulled gave it to him as a birthday present and Clotted was very happy to see his idea actually realized. Mulled is that one cool uncle that lets you do things that are probably dangerous but the situation is *most likely* under control under his gaze

Vanilla Sugar is an old tough grandma on the surface but she has her own ways of being sweet. When Clotted was a child she’d take him out on walks to the stores in the Republic and Clotted would always whine about how long the walks took but Vanilla Sugar always let him choose a piece of candy from the stores and she’d sometimes take him to meet her friends when they hung out and all the old ladies would coo over how cute Clotted was

Mille-Feuille is like an nice aunt who gives out those weird brown and white candies that taste nice enough but you can’t find them literally anywhere. I don’t have much for her but I think she was probably the first one/one of the first ones to expose Clotted to the lower city because of how iirc she sometimes goes there. Probably also taught Clotted to be nice to others no matter their status idk

Oyster is probably where his 2% connivingness comes from she taught him how to lie n survive in the political climate. I hc Clotted has/had some form of shyness/social anxiety when he was younger ( based on how his mom acts + Custard’s lines and a dash or projection ) and Oyster was one of his teachers on being social and putting on an air of perfection in front of others ( the other elders probably helped him come out of his shell though ). She has semi-dubious morals but she IS very kind to Clotted and generally tries to steer him in the correct direction ( her whole speech about ”don’t put your trust in me or anyone else” probably did come from a place of concern )

Every one of them also has a generally negative perception of Custard once they figure out how he was raised ( Because Custard and Clotted would both downplay it ( one out of not wanting people to find out because it would damage his reputation, and one out of genuinely thinking that it wasn’t that bad ) and Custard puts on a different mask in front of people that makes them think he’s a proud, but strict, dad to Clotted )

I’m very sorry to Canelé Sablé and Bumkuchen but I don’t really know them that well••”

Anyways yeah Clotted is. Yeah<3 I have more about him but as to NOT clog up your inbox I’ll save them for my own post ( + a lot of them are. sad n angsty yk how it is )

TUMBLR DELETED MY RESPONSE IM SO UPSET..

BUT IM AGREEING, When I have the time I’ll definitely rewrite what I initially had written. In the mean time guys look at these cool headcanons!!!

[cookie-run-kingdom-story]

Council of Heroes: Day 2

(Some screenshots from Royal Mike!)

Financier Cookie: How may I aid you? GingerBrave: Um, hullo? I'm GingerBrave! I promise Clotted Cream Cookie to show him around! Financier Cookie: I see. Remain here, please. Clotted Cream Cookie: Good morning, GingerBrave! Thank you for coming. GingerBrave: Don’t mention it! The weather is gorgeous today. Perfect for a tour around the kingdom! Clotted Cream Cookie: I cannot wait! And it seems that I have chosen the perfect Cookie to be my guide! GingerBrave: You sure did! Alright, where should we start?

GingerBrave: Oh wow! The WaffleBot Hangar is still there! Clotted Cream Cookie: I see screws and other mechanical parts lying around. And… machinery that has stopped working. Clotted Cream Cookie: These robots… They look almost exactly the same as the construction robots in the Republic! GingerBrave: These are called Wafflebots! Apparently the old Vanillians created them! GingerBrave: When we first met them, they were ferocious! But I guess… they’re asleep right now? Look! They’re standing still! Waffle Goliath: WHIRRRR… SCREEEECH! GingerBrave: AIEEE! They’re awake! Strawberry Crepe Cookie: HUH? WHAT’S GOING ON? Who dares to mess with my robots…?! Strawberry Crepe Cookie: Wait, GINGERBAVE!? GingerBrave: Strawberry Crepe Cookie! Have you been here all this time?! With the Wafflebots?! Strawberry Crepe Cookie: D’uh! Who else has the craftsmanship and the brains to take care of the Wafflebots other than me, Strawberry Crepe Cookie? Strawberry Crepe Cookie: And who’s that pasty Cookie next to you? GingerBrave: Let me introduce Clotted Cream Cookie! A new friend of mine! GingerBrave: Clotted Cream Cookie claims he’s a descendant of the Vanilla Kingdom! From House Custard of the great Crème Republic. Isn’t that awesome!? Strawberry Crepe Cookie: Custard…? Custard… Now where did I hear that before…? Strawberry Crepe Cookie: Eh, whatever. Strawberry Crepe Cookie: Then let’s see what you’re made of! Let me analyze you! Clotted Cream Cookie: Excuse me? What is the meaning of this? Strawberry Crepe Cookie: Oh it’s nothing. I’m just analyzing your dough! Now stand still, will you?

Strawberry Crepe Cookie: Let’s see… Hmm… 25% grace, 23% eloquence, 20% brilliance, 20% ambition, 10% condensed cream, and… 2% connivingness. Strawberry Crepe Cookie: Pfft, not much to see, if you ask me. Financier Cookie: You dare analyze another Cookie’s ingredients without their consent?! Such disrespect…! Clotted Cream Cookie: It is alright. I am surprised this kingdom still has functioning robots. They must be ancient yet they operate as if they were built yesterday. How remarkable! Clotted Cream Cookie: And this analyzing skill of yours seems very useful. Strawberry Crepe Cookie: Of course it is! I’m quite the genius, you see! Clotted Cream Cookie: Ha ha, yes, yes. Let us talk more about robotics later. I should get going now. Strawberry Crepe Cookie: Hmph, he’s not so bad! He did recognize my brilliance, after all! Strawberry Crepe Cookie: Wait, but… Strawberry Crepe Cookie: His dough didn’t contain any custard…

GingerBrave: Now this is the inn! You can rest here, eat here, talk here, and more! All in all, a very fun place to be! Villager Cookie 2: Come in, come in! Welcome to the Crow’s Nest inn! Clotted Cream Cookie: What an energetic place! Villager Cookie 2: Yup, built from the ground up by yours truly! Me and my friends from the village down there worked hard to make it the best inn in the land! Villager Cookie 2: And I still can’t believe we get paid for our work, he he! If you told me we’d be able to afford raisins back then, I wouldn’t have believed ya! Villager Cookie 3: Hello…! Is it your first time in the Vanilla Kingdom? How are you liking it so far? Clotted Cream Cookie: I find it most wonderful! Such an inviting place full of vibrancy and optimism. Villager Cookie 3: Oh, you should try this! It’s called a Raisin Jelly! Have you ever had Raisin Jellies? Clotted Cream Cookie: Hmm… I do not think I am familiar with Raisin Jellies. Villager Cookie 3: So… would you like to try one? Financier Cookie: Clotted Cream Cookie, it would be wise to ascertain the source of such food before consumption…! Financier Cookie: Who knows what unverified ingredients are in there… Clotted Cream Cookie: Oh, Financier Cookie! It is most impolite to refuse a welcome gift! Thank you so much, kind Cookie! Villager Cookie 3: What do you think? It’s good, right?! Clotted Cream Cookie: Most delicious and chewy! And the balance of sweetness and tartness is just impeccable. Villager Cookie 3: Oh, I’m so glad! Would you like another one? Clotted Cream Cookie: Oh no, no no… I usually skip breakfast. But thank you! Clotted Cream Cookie: I was delighted to learn more about the local cuisine! Now I should continue my tour, for there is much to see in your wonderful kingdom! Villager Cookie 3: I gotta admit, I thought you’d be more difficult! But you’re pretty swell! Villager Cookie 3: He he! I’ll save more Raisin Jellies for you! Have fun! Bye bye!

Wildberry Cookie: What brings you here? GingerBrave: I’m giving Clotted Cream Cookie a tour of the Vanilla Kingdom! Clotted Cream Cookie: I believe I did not have a chance to properly introduce myself last night. I am Clotted Cream Cookie of the Crème Republic. Hollyberry Cookie: Do I hear guests? Oh, it’s Clotted Cream Cookie! Hollyberry Cookie: So, you’re a descendant of the Vanilla Kingdom, you say? Clotted Cream Cookie: That is right! Condensed cream and vanilla flavor flow through my dough. Clotted Cream Cookie: I heard that the Hollyberry Kingdom is home to great writers and artists! I hope to visit the famous Capital of Passion and Romance someday. Hollyberry Cookie: Our kingdom? Ha ha, yes, yes! It’s always been full of fun and laughter, that’s for sure! Hollyberry Cookie: Each house has their very own recipe for berry juice- a perfect beverage to share with stories and laughter! And on special occasions, we celebrate with dance, music, and banquets! Hollyberry Cookie: So, have you ever had berry juice? Clotted Cream Cookie: Unfortunately, I have never had the opportunity… But I am sure I can… “take down” a barrel or two. Especially in your company, Hollyberry Cookie. Hollyberry Cookie: Oohooo? Clotted Cream Cookie: You see, I can be quite competitive. Hollyberry Cookie: Ha ha ha ha! Saw straight through me, didn’t you?! Hollyberry Cookie: Well, I’ll be looking forward to that day! Sounds like you won’t go down without a good fight, eh? Clotted Cream Cookie: It would be an honor. Hollyberry Cookie: This one has a way with words! I quite like him! Alright, a promise is a promise! No turning back later! Ha ha!

GingerBrave: Hmm… Everyone is studying… so… This must be the school! Villager Cookie 1: Yep, yep! Pure Vanilla Cookie built this Magic Academy for us! Villager Cookie 1: Now we can conjure spells too! They’re basic and simple, but still! Villager Cookie 4: Here, lemme show you! I’ve just learned the shield incantation! GingerBrave: Whoah, shields are very useful in battle! Villager Cookie 4: Ta-da! Villager Cookie 4: This raisin is now protected by a shield! Villager Cookie 4: This way, the raisin will stay chewy and juicy much longer. Clotted Cream Cookie: Indeed, in order to assess a nation’s development, one should pay attention to the school! I cannot overstate the importance of a good education! Clotted Cream Cookie: Seeing how everyone is doing their best studying, I can tell the Vanilla Kingdom is in very capable and promising hands. Villager Cookie 1: Yeah, I never realized how fun studying is! I’m gonna give it my best. He he! Villager Cookie 4: GingerBrave, why don't you join us? GingerBrave: I… Um, sorry! I’m giving Clotted Cream Cookie a tour of the kingdom right now! GingerBrave: I’ll stop by later, I promise! GingerBrave: Clotted Cream Cookie, Financier Cookie! Ready to continue? Follow me!

GingerBrave: Pure Vanilla Cookie! There you are! Pure Vanilla Cookie: Welcome! What can I do for you on this fair afternoon? GingerBrave: I’m giving Clotted Cream Cookie a tour of the kingdom! Pure Vanilla Cookie: Oh, please do make yourselves comfortable! Clotted Cream Cookie: Thank you for the warm welcome. This garden is truly a work of art! It is serene and peaceful. Do you tend it yourself? Pure Vanilla Cookie: Yes, I take care of all the gardens in the castle. Pure Vanilla Cookie: There is something inherently calming about gardening. Looking at a well-manicured garden brings peace to my mind. Clotted Cream Cookie: May I help? I have quite the green thumb, if I do say so myself. Pure Vanilla Cookie: Of course! Help is always appreciated. Pure Vanilla Cookie: There is something… I have been hoping to discuss with you. You see, this is the first time I heard about the Vanillians’ fate since the Dark Flour War. Pure Vanilla Cookie: What is the Crème Republic like? How does everyone fare? Clotted Cream Cookie: It is a great place. We are surrounded by the generous sea, providing us with bountiful resources. Our citizens bask in abundance and happiness! Clotted Cream Cookie: The original inhabitants have welcomed the Vanilla Kingdom’s refugees and their advanced culture and technology. We have been working together towards a collective future ever since! Clotted Cream Cookie: We also have the Paladins blessed by the Divine who provide protection within and beyond our borders. Pure Vanilla Cookie: That is good to hear… Pure Vanilla Cookie: My heart has been heavy with guilt and grief, for I have failed in protecting the Cookies of the Vanilla Kingdom… Pure Vanilla Cookie: Your news bring such a relief!* I’m glad to hear everyone lives a happy life.

*actual text

Clotted Cream Cookie: Pure Vanilla Cookie, you should visit the Crème Republic someday. It is a land of splendor and beauty, just like the Vanilla Kingdom. Pure Vanilla Cookie: Yes, I can’t wait!

Crunchy Chip Cookie: Huh? Who goes there?! Clotted Cream Cookie: My, what marvelous wolves! All in great shape and trained very well! Crunchy Chip Cookie: These are our trusty brothers-in-arms, who help us defend the borders of Dark Cacao! Crunchy Chip Cookie: Deep within the snowy mountains, we stand watch and fight in the shivering cold in the midst of raging blizzards. Every. Single. Day! Clotted Cream Cookie: The snowy mountains, you say… What do you usually eat there? Crunchy Chip Cookie: Huh? Well, we usually have cacao nibs porridge, dried licorice calamari, and hard tack Jellies as provisions. Clotted Cream Cookie: I mean no offense, but that hardly sounds enough to sustain these brave warriors. Clotted Cream Cookie: Financier Cookie, I believe we have a package of scones stored in our airship’s hold. I think it would be a great gift for these noble soldiers! Financier Cookie: Of course, sir. I will bring some right away. Crunchy Chip Cookie: Huh?! What’s this? Clotted Cream Cookie: These scones are best enjoyed with soft, rich cream and sweet apricot jam. It is a popular dessert in the republic. Please, try one. Crunchy Chip Cookie: Th-this is… Crunchy Chip Cookie: …SWEET?! Clotted Cream Cookie: I’m glad you like it! Clotted Cream Cookie: Would you like more? We have enough for your entire squad. Crunchy Chip Cookie: N-no… NO! Sweets corrupt the mind and hinder the body! Crunchy Chip Cookie: Dark Cacao Warriors will not be swayed by such desserts! But I thank you for the generosity. Crunchy Chip Cookie: Ugh, and I had a big bite! I guess… Guess I should double today’s training to make up for it!

GingerBrave: Ooh, today’s the Big Day! The first day of the Council! Black Raisin Cookie: Looks like Cookies from all around have arrived to witness this event. Flunked Pilgrim: I… I can’t believe it! I’m visiting THE Vanilla Kingdom! Flunked Pilgrim: I feel like my luck will turn around from now on! Yes, YES! I can feel it in my dough! Old Pilgrim: I thought I’d never set foot in these Vanillian lands again…! Old Pilgrim: I can… I can now become crumbs in peace! GingerBrave: Wow, everyone looks super stoked! Looks like Hollyberry Cookie and Dark Cacao Cookie will be joining us soon too. Black Raisin Cookie: You know… There’s something that’s been on my mind. Black Raisin Cookie: Remember the old statue of Pure Vanilla Cookie? The one that got shattered? Black Raisin Cookie: Well, we did our best to fix it… But I was thinking maybe we could make the plaza more… inviting. Black Raisin Cookie: This is the place visitors to the kingdom will see first, and it would be great to make them feel welcome here. GingerBrave: Ooh, we could decorate the plaza together with the statue! Black Raisin Cookie: That’s a great idea! Let’s gather some materials for the statue.

GingerBrave: Now we’re talking! This place looks GREAT! GingerBrave: I bet all the visiting Cookies are gonna be wowed by its awesomeness! Black Raisin Cookie: We couldn’t have done it without you. Thank you, GingerBrave. GingerBrave: Aww come on, we did together! GingerBrave: The Council will begin any minute now! Catch you later!

Pilgrim Village Elder: Hur hur hur! Nice inn you have here! A cuppa coffee for me, son! Villager Cookie 2: Right away, sir! Your glass of raisin juice will be right- Huh? Coffee? Pilgrim Village Elder: Black, piping hot, fragrant juice… You don’t have it? Pilgrim Village Elder: This is bad. I tend to get sleepy without coffee, and… Pilgrim Village Elder: …*Snore.* Flunked Pilgrim: Elder? Elder?! Oh no, the Elder fell asleep! Villager Cookie 2: W-wait! Once* cup of coffee coming right up! Coffee… Coffee…

*actual text

Villager Cookie 2: Oh no! We’re out of coffee! Villager Cookie 2: GingerBrave! We need your help!

Flunked Pilgrim: Hey, elder! You need to wake up. Pilgrim Village Elder: Mhh… Oh? Ah! I must’ve fallen asleep. But what is this? I can smell the delightful aroma of coffee…! Villager Cookie 2: I’m sorry for the wait! Here’s a cup of the finest coffee in the realm! Pilgrim Village Elder: Oh my! It sure does live up to its description! *Gulp Gulp* Ahh, that hit the spot! Villager Cookie 2: Thank you. Please come again!

Clotted Cream Cookie: GingerBrave, I am truly grateful for the tour. Clotted Cream Cookie: I have learned so much thanks to you. It also reaffirmed my belief that the Vanilla Kingdom was, and is, a great place. GingerBrave: Don’t mention it! I also had a great time. Making new friends is the best thing ever! Clotted Cream Cookie: I feel more connected to the kingdom. Clotted Cream Cookie: Now, shall we make way?

Pure Vanilla Cookie: Hello and welcome to the first Council meeting here in the Vanilla Kingdom. Pure Vanilla Cookie: I would like to thank my dear friends, Hollyberry Cookie and Dark Cacao Cookie. And of course, the esteemed Clotted Cream Cookie, who came all the way from the Crème Republic! Pure Vanilla Cookie: We have gathered here as representatives of our nations to discuss matters of great significance. Pure Vanilla Cookie: But before we begin… I’d like to introduce you all to a special Cookie. Pure Vanilla Cookie: GingerBrave! As you all know, he is a Cookie of unheard bravery! GingerBrave: He he! Hollyberry Cookie: Hear, hear! Pure Vanilla Cookie: He witnessed the very sight of Dark Enchantress Cookie’s awakening and fought valiantly to protect the Cookies of this world. If it were not for him, this very soil we stand upon might have been reduced to ashes. Pure Vanilla Cookie: It is because of his courage that we are able to gather here to discuss our shared future. Wildberry Cookie: Huh. So small yet so brave. Crunchy Chip Cookie: But how? He doesn’t even have any icing armor! GingerBrave: Aww, stop! He he… I wasn’t alone! I wouldn’t have gotten this far without my friends!

Pure Vanilla Cookie: Now, let us begin. Pure Vanilla Cookie: Dark Enchantress Cookie has returned. And she is moving forward with her schemes of taking over Earthbread. Pure Vanilla Cookie: Recently, she caused chaos and havoc in several kingdoms. Dark Cacao Cookie: That is true. Followers of Dark Enchantress Cookie have made an appearance in our kingdom. Dark Cacao Cookie: After their efforts were thwarted by the Dark Cacao warriors, I received reports of them fleeing to the land of Beast-Yeast across the Licorice Sea. Pure Vanilla Cookie: Then it is highly likely that Dark Enchantress Cookie resides somewhere within Beast-Yeast. Hollyberry Cookie: Ah, Beast-Yeast! I’m quite familiar with the land if I do say so myself! Hollyberry Cookie: It’s a wild and mysterious land of overgrown marshes and swamps, home to strange ancient beasts. Every day, they burst forth from the earth to hunt their prey. Dark Cacao Cookie: Those heinous creatures crawled into the Licorice Sea and defiled its waters! Dark Cacao Cookie: Hence the reason why the Dark Cacao Kingdom constructed strong walls bordering the sea. Hollyberry Cookie: Dark Enchantress Cookie will try to use those dangerous beasts to her advantage, I’m sure of it! Clotted Cream Cookie: Our enemy is cornered, no doubt. I assume she will be preparing her final strike. Pure Vanilla Cookie: We must gather our forces. We need to travel across the lands and find Cookies who will lend us their strength. Hollyberry Cookie: If you’re thinking about creating an alliance against Dark Enchantress Cookie, then shouldn’t we find White Lily Cookie and Golden Cheese Cookie first? Dark Cacao Cookie: Do you know their whereabouts?

Hollyberry Cookie: Well, I haven’t heard anything from White Lily Cookie after the war. As for Golden Cheese Cookie… Rumor has it she returned to her kingdom… Pure Vanilla Cookie: … Hollyberry Cookie: But other than the fact it’s in the middle of the desert, I can’t tell much about WHERE that kingdom is. You know how she can be! Being all secretive, and whatnot. Hollyberry Cookie: I sure do miss those two… I wonder what they’re up to nowadays… Dark Cacao Cookie: Who else is there? Hollyberry Cookie: Ah! What about the dragons? Hollyberry Cookie: Now, we may have had our differences in the past, but they are powerful beings of tremendous strength. And giant, too! If we can persuade them to join our cause, they’d be of great help! Dark Cacao Cookie: Persuade them… with words? Hollyberry Cookie: Words? Ha! I never said anything about words.

Pure Vanilla Cookie: There is also another group of Cookies, each being a force to be reckoned with- Cookies wielding the mystical powers of the elements themselves. Pure Vanilla Cookie: I’ve felt their presence and their power for a while now. Pure Vanilla Cookie: If we can persuade them to join our cause, our odds will increase significantly. Hollyberry Cookie: Looks like our chances are not as low after all! We must find all potential allies that we can! Pure Vanilla Cookie: I’m sure many Cookies will join us in this fight. And together, we are more than capable of opposing Dark Enchantress Cookie! Pure Vanilla Cookie: Of course, before then, we have a lot of work to do. This is the task that lies before us. This… is our mission. Wildberry Cookie: Mission… Crunchy Chip Cookie: I’m ready for ANY mission! Yeah! Clotted Cream Cookie: I am afraid we do not have the luxury of time. As we speak, Dark Enchantress Cookie is tightening her grasp on this world! Clotted Cream Cookie: We have no information, neither on where she is hiding nor on what her plans are. This is our greatest disadvantage and it must be eliminated as quickly as possible. Hollyberry Cookie: He’s right! We don’t have much time! Clotted Cream Cookie: Then, let us decide who should lead the expedition to Beast-Yeast.

Pure Vanilla Cookie: Our knowledge on the land of Beast-Yeast is scarce at best. We must assume that great dangers will await our expedition there. Clotted Cream Cookie: In that case, I suggest that you leave this endeavor to the forces of the Crème Republic. With our advanced technology, magic, and weaponry, we can complete this mission much faster. Hollyberry Cookie: Naturally, the Hollyberry Kingdom should take the lead! Hollyberry Cookie: Beast-Yeast is a land of many dangers! No other kingdom can succeed in such a place! Dark Cacao Cookie: No, we should go! Dark Cacao Cookie: For generations, our warriors warded off the horrors of the Licorice Sea. Only we can endure this challenge! Hollyberry Cookie: Dark Cacao Cookie, don’t you have a kingdom to lead? Hollyberry Cookie: I can move freely on my own! Besides, I’ve already been to Beast-Yeast! Hollyberry Cookie: With this shield, I can handle any monster! Just let them come! Hollyberry Cookie: And our knights fight with unparalleled passion! You can count on us! Dark Cacao Cookie: Our Cookies are accustomed to harsh conditions. Dark Cacao Cookie: Every day, they train hard despite the wind and snow! Beast-Yeast cannot scare them. Hollyberry Cookie: Hey now, don’t underestimate the danger! The land of Beast-Yeast is not to be taken lightly. Crunchy Chip Cookie: Who’s taking it lightly?! My fellow warriors never take anything lightly! Wildberry Cookie: That wasn’t the point. Crunchy Chip Cookie: What do you know about raging blizzards and piercing wind?! No one else but us can survive in such harsh conditions, let alone fight monsters! Crunchy Chip Cookie: And the only thing you do is drink juice and dance under the tropical sun! Hollyberry Cookie: Watch your words, wolf captain! I’m well aware of your kingdom’s harsh climate, but we’ve fought terrible dragons. And won! Dark Cacao Cookie: You cannot compare it to the dangers of the Licorice Sea. We are the last bastion standing in Dark Enchantress Cookie’s way. Pure Vanilla Cookie: My friends… Please! Let’s agree that each and every one of us is more than ready to join the fight against our enemy. Pure Vanilla Cookie: Right now, we need to devise a strategy together! Pure Vanilla Cookie: Why don’t we all take some time to think and reconvene tomorrow?

Repair Noises: *Squeak Squeak* *Clank* *Whirrrr* *Click!* Strawberry Crepe Cookie: Phew! That marks the end of today’s maintenance! All your oil should be pure and clean! Waffle Goliath: ^^ Strawberry Crepe Cookie: He he. There, there, my precious Wafflebot! Strawberry Crepe Cookie: …You know I can see you hiding over there, GingerBrave. GingerBrave: He he, you caught me! GingerBrave: Hard at work, I see! You really turn into a different Cookie when your Wafflebots are happy! Strawberry Crepe Cookie: Hmpf! That’s because they are loyal to me! They aren’t anything like Cookies! GingerBrave: The Cookies in our kingdom like you too! Same goes for the villagers! GingerBrave: Anyways, I have to go see Pure Vanilla Cookie now! Have a good day! Hehe! Strawberry Crepe Cookie: ? What a strange one.

GingerBrave: Pure Vanilla Cookie, is everything all right? You look troubled. Pure Vanilla Cookie: When all the strongest warriors gather in one place, their wish to show their worth is to be expected. Pure Vanilla Cookie: But the important thing is using our strengths together! Only this way we can* win the war ahead of us.

*actual text

Pure Vanilla Cookie: We have a lot to talk about in the morning. GingerBrave: (I hope Pure Vanilla Cookie manages to convince the others…)

The white lily greenhouse is empty. The air is filled with the scents of the flowers. GingerBrave: This scent… White Lily Cookie? No reply… GingerBrave: White Lily Cookie… Are you still out there…? Dark Enchantress Cookie hasn’t taken over yet, has she?! GingerBrave: I miss you. And I think Pure Vanilla Cookie does too… GingerBrave: Will we ever meet again…?

Clotted Cream Cookie: They should be here by now… Have they not arrived yet? Financier Cookie: I will check the airship port and report back on the situation, sir. Clotted Cream Cookie: Much appreciated. Please send them directly to my office, should you meet them. Clotted Cream Cookie: The Cookies who were dispatched to these lands before us… Their mission was to gather information on the Soul Jam. Clotted Cream Cookie: I wonder how their investigation is proceeding. If my intuition is correct, this will help us greatly in achieving our goals.

There seems to be no one here…? Dark Cacao Cookie: Hollyberry Cookie. I have something to… Hm? Gone? Wildberry Cookie: Who goes there! An intruder in the Queen Mother’s chambers will not… Wildberry Cookie: Ah! Your Majesty Dark Cacao Cookie! Sincerest apologies, my lord. Dark Cacao Cookie: At ease, knight. I wanted to exchange a few words with Hollyberry Cookie, but she seems to be elsewhere. I will be on my way. Wildberry Cookie: Stay safe, Your Majesty. Wildberry Cookie: Didn’t Hollyberry Cookie leave to talk with old friends? Why isn’t she back yet? Wildberry Cookie: …Wait. Could it be…?

Dark Cacao Cookie: Thank you for answering my call. GingerBrave: What’s up? Whatever you need, I’m the Cookie who can do it! Dark Cacao Cookie: I must talk to Hollyberry Cookie yet I cannot find her. Dark Cacao Cookie: I visited her chambers but she was nowhere to be seen. Can you help? GingerBrave: Gotcha! Let’s go find Hollyberry Cookie!

Villager Cookie 1: La da da… Sweeping here, sweeping there… No dust lying anywhere! GingerBrave: (What kind of song is that?) Villager Cookie 1: Hey, GingerBrave! Good to see you again! Villager Cookie 1: What do you think? Isn’t the plaza so nice when it’s shiny and clean like this? I want our kingdom to look its best when our guests arrive! Villager Cookie 1: But I keep feeling like it's missing something… important? Villager Cookie 1: Ah! How about some more Vanilla Kingdom-y decorations? Villager Cookie 1: Great idea!

GingerBrave: …There! How about that? Villager Cookie 1: Whoa, that’s so much better! I love it! Villager Cookie 1: The Vanilla Kingdom really is looking more beautiful than ever! GingerBrave: I’m sure the guests will be amazed too. After all, they thought the Vanilla Kingdom was completely destroyed! GingerBrave: And the Vanilla Kingdom style has always been universal too!

Hollyberry Cookie: …And how did I defeat the dragon, you ask? Oh, I’ll tell you how! Hollyberry Cookie: I jumped on its tail and started taunting the great beast! The dragon got so angry, it started chasing me! Hollyberry Cookie: And right before I was about to get eaten, I jumped off, and the dragon, oh, bit its own tail oh so hard! Ha ha ha ha! GingerBrave: Here you are, Hollyberry Cookie! Hollyberry Cookie: Ha ha! GingerBrave, my boy! Welcome! Have a glass of berry- Dark Cacao Cookie: Hollyberry Cookie… Hollyberry Cookie: Dark Cacao Cookie? To what do I owe the honor?! Dark Cacao Cookie: The fate of our kingdoms is to be decided, and here you are laughing and… and… and… drinking! Dark Cacao Cookie: How did you ever become Queen?! Hollyberry Cookie: Whoah whoah whoah! Easy now! Just try having a good time for once! It HELPS, you’ll see! Hollyberry Cookie: Now I never expected to see you in such a place, BUT SINCE YOU’RE HERE, why don’t you… Hollyberry Cookie: …Uh? Ohh! Now I understand! You came to apologize for what you said during the Council! Dark Cacao Cookie: No! I came to finish that discussion! Hollyberry Cookie: Alright then, apologies! Ha ha! Hollyberry Cookie: Here, grab your glass and drink! The juice is amazing!

Hollyberry Cookie: Oho! You’re good at that! Dark Cacao Cookie: *Hic* Oh, excuse me! Hollyberry Cookie: Wildberry Cookie! Stop standing there and have a drink! Wildberry Cookie: I kindly refuse. Please keep in mind your promise to Queen Jungleberry Cookie- Hollyberry Cookie: You big sour berry! Can’t you have fun just this once?! Hollyberry Cookie: We have a war ahead! There are memories to make before then! Wildberry Cookie: Very well. I’ll have ONE glass. Hollyberry Cookie: Ha ha ha! That’s the spirit!

Cream Wolf: Grrrr… WOOF WOOF! *Whimper* Cream Wolf Soldier: Ah… Whimpering in the corner again? Cream Wolf Soldier: Hey! Crunchy Chip Cookie! It’s your wolf! Why don’t you do something about him?! Crunchy Chip Cookie: I’m sorry! SORRY! Hey, buddy! Let’s have a talk, just you and me! Baby Wolf: Groh? Wolf Dad: What’s gotten into you these days? Never listening, always making a fuss! Wolf Dad: You gotta behave, bud! Baby Wolf: *Chew Chew*... *Spit* Wolf Dad: HEY NOW! TeacherBrave: Wait a moment. I think the Cream Wolf is trying to say something? Baby Wolf: *Whimper*... TeacherBrave: Oh? Your legs are shaking. Are you feeling scared? Ah! Is it because the Vanilla Kingdom is up in the air? TeacherBrave: I felt SO dizzy the first time I came here! Looking down at the ground below almost made me pass out! Ha ha. TeacherBrave: Just one second! I’ll get something that can help you relax!

GingerBrave: Crunchy Chip Cookie! Give this to your wolves. It’s a medicine that helps with the fear of heights! Crunchy Chip Cookie: Ha ha! Thank you! Here, my friend! Eat this all up! Cream Wolf: *Chew chew chew* Crunchy Chip Cookie: How is it? Feeling better now?! Cream Wolf: Woof Woof! *Lick Lick* ❤️ Crunchy Chip Cookie: Ha ha ha! That’s the spirit! Let’s take you out for a walk! Cream Wolf: Bark bark! ❤️ Crunchy Chip Cookie: Listen up, squad! To the stadium, on the double! Time to walk these Cream Wolves! GingerBrave: What a relief!

GingerBrave: Oh? The door’s open? Villager Cookie 3: GingerBrave! Whoooaah, you really came! Villager Cookie 3: I left my homework at home, but it’s too scary to go back alone… Can you come with me? GingerBrave: Ah… oh? Of course! I’m GingerBrave, after all! No place is too scary for me…! GingerBrave: (I should’ve just walked by…)

Villager Cookie 3: Your knees are knocking… Are you really okay, GingerBrave? GingerBrave: Um… of course, I’m fine! I am GingerBrave…! GingerBrave: Did you find your homework? Let’s get out of here, then! Huh? Who’s that Cookie over there…? Villager Cookie 3: Oh? You’re right! Must be a ghost! GingerBrave: AHHHHHH!!! A GHOST!!!!! Villager Cookie 3: He he he! Just kidding! Villager Cookie 3: I got you, didn’t I? It’s just an old portrait! GingerBrave: *Huff huff* Wait, it was just a portrait?! Villager Cookie 3: Yeah, a portrait of a student of the Vanilla Kingdom’s Magic Academy! They used to study late every day! Practically, the best student ever! Villager Cookie 3: This Cookie loved the Academy so much they became a ghost and have roamed these halls ever since! GingerBrave: IT IS A GHOST THEN! AAAAAHHHHHHHH!!!

Dark Cacao Cookie: …Who stands in my way! Dark Cacao Cookie: You are to attack?! Go ahead, challenge me! Hollyberry Cookie: Ha ha ha! I see you’ve made an acquaintance with Ser Tree! That’s enough juice for you, my old friend! Hollyberry Cookie: Have an ice cream, it will help clear your head! Here, I brought it from the inn, it’s yours! Dark Cacao Cookie: Mmm… I don’t eat… sweets… Hollyberry Cookie: Oh, come on! One time doesn’t count! After all, we haven’t seen each other for a long time! Hollyberry Cookie: Have it before I force you! Ha ha ha! Dark Cacao Cookie: Fine… Dark Cacao Cookie: *Smack smack* It tastes… weird. Hollyberry Cookie: They only had one flavor: raisin! Ha ha ha ha! Hollyberry Cookie: Now tell me, how have you been? I heard there has been quite the ruckus in the Dark Cacao Kingdom? Dark Cacao Cookie: Ahem… Our kingdom was on the brink of destruction. But I also had a chance to look back at my life, and it was only full of regrets. Dark Cacao Cookie: More than anything, I was glad to realize how much trust my soldiers put in me. They treasure our kingdom greatly. Hollyberry Cookie: I’m glad to hear that! In times like this, the most valuable things are friendship and trust! Dark Cacao Cookie: And how have you been? Hollyberry Cookie: I met Cookies I’d missed for a long long time. And what do you know! I even met my granddaughter! Hollyberry Cookie: She is a bright, strong kid! Very much like me! Ha ha! You learn something important when you come back home after a long journey. Hollyberry Cookie: Everyone of us has something or something to fight for! Dark Cacao Cookie: Ah, I see that your courage and passion are burning brighter than ever! Hollyberry Cookie: Ha ha! And your resolution and will are still adamant! Hollyberry Cookie: …I take it, we’ve got another chance to stop Dark Enchantress Cookie. Hollyberry Cookie: This time, we can’t let Pure Vanilla Cookie sacrifice everything alone. Dark Cacao Cookie: You are right. Hollyberry Cookie: Today I realized how much I missed Golden Cheese Cookie and White Lily Cookie. I wonder if they are still… You know. Dark Cacao Cookie: What are you trying to say?! Hollyberry Cookie: Never mind… Hollyberry Cookie: Wait? Did you hear that? At the airship port! Dark Cacao Cookie: Someone else has arrived…

GingerBrave: Whoah! Lookie-lookie! Welcome, friends! Espresso Cookie: Apologies. A quest of great importance delayed us. Madeleine Cookie: Fate has finally brought us to the fabled Vanilla Kingdom! Ha ha! Madeleine Cookie: As always, I go where my presence is needed! Espresso Cookie: I hear the Republic has seen many changes since our departure. Clotted Cream Cookie has become the new Consul. Espresso Cookie: I recall him being but a novice politician. Indeed, the political situation across the sea is difficult to predict! Madeleine Cookie: Ah, I can’t wait to meet my fellow Republicans! Madeleine Cookie: Do you know where we can find Clotted Cream Cookie? GingerBrave: Follow me! I’ll lead the way!

Clotted Cream Cookie: Madeleine Cookie, Espresso Cookie! I have been expecting you! Clotted Cream Cookie: It is a great honor to finally meet the great heroes of our Republic! I am sure, everyone cannot wait to hear your story back home! Madeleine Cookie: Well met! Madeleine Cookie: …And who is that? I sense… the Light of the Divine! Financier Cookie: My name is Financier Cookie. Financier Cookie: I heard a lot about you, Ser Madeleine Cookie. They call you the “Pride of the Paladin Academy.” Clotted Cream Cookie: Financier Cookie is our Republic’s most promising Paladin. She was granted the honor of… serving as my personal guardian. Financier Cookie: You are too kind, sir. I only do my duty as per the Light’s command.

Madeleine Cookie: Huh… really…? Graced by the Light as much as I, I see! Madeleine Cookie: Ha ha ha! I’m glad to have another great Paladin in our ranks! The more, the merrier! Madeleine Cookie: You may approach me with any questions or concerns! I always enjoy sharing my experience! Financier Cookie: …Of course, Ser Madeleine Cookie. It would be an honor. Clotted Cream Cookie: I heard about your quest. Albeit, my knowledge is rather limited. Espresso Cookie: Our quest entailed the search for Soul Jam that once belonged to the Ancient Heroes. Clotted Cream Cookie: I have met those Ancient Heroes. Clotted Cream Cookie: Am I correct to assume it is the gemstones embedded in their weapons? Espresso Cookie: Correct. Each of the Five Ancient Heroes carries an ancient treasure, the Soul Jam. Espresso Cookie: This Soul Jam grants them power unheard of. They do not age and are almost immune to crumbling. Clotted Cream Cookie: How interesting. That must be the reason they are still fresh and crunchy. Clotted Cream Cookie: I must begin my own investigation. Tomorrow is going to be an important day.

GingerBrave: Whoah! Look at the time! What a busy day! GingerBrave: Time to go back to Crow’s Nest! I need a good nap in a soft bed!

[anonymous-person-in-hellhole]

The story continues... (Or, Odyssey Ch. I, Day 2)

Bubblegum Cookie decides to do something about this nagging thought in their head, so they decide to rest for the night and spy on him tomorrow.

Totally reasonable...

They don their disguise and spy on the Consul. While GingerBrave gives him a tour around the kingdom, they watch his every move, judge every action he takes, study his mannerisms, find out what he likes and what he doesn’t-

“Wait!” They mentally refocus on their self-imposed mission. “Oh, c’mon, Bubs... focus! What are they saying?” They listen in on the child genius’ analysis of the man and hear that one of his ingredients is “2% connivingness.”

‘Now, what in the witches’ mouth is that supposed to mean, little prince?’ They think to themself.

“You dare analyze another Cookie's ingredients without their consent?! Such disrespect...!” ‘Geez, who brought that unsweet cookie- oh wait, that's his guard. Whoops...’ They listen a bit more and hears that he is surprised at the still functioning robots, not to mention how helpful their analyzing skill is. 'You better not be trying to make them betray the kingdom, dude...' He leaves, and follows them once more outside, though they hear the child genius whisper something about his dough or something. 'Maybe I should... ah, who cares, they're back to working on those things, and I might lose him.'

His next stop is the Inn. 'He’s rich, he’s probably going to treat them horribly...' But, instead of what they expected, he acts kindly to the workers, treats them with respect, and is just so kind... 'Wha- hey! Focus, me!!!' They almost slip from where they were hiding, and everyone in the room almost saw them, if they didn't hide fast enough. 'That... could have blown my cover... Oh my witches, what is happening to me?' They lie and excuse their mistake with distractions and being sloppy, both of which have never made them a bad spy. ‘It’s fine! He’s just... a really good actor... probably...’

Yet every other time they try to find dirt on him, he only ever seems kind and sweet, if not, an understanding and respectful man. He might be the second nicest cookie they’ve met since GingerBrave... He’s just so kind and sweet~

“Maybe... he is nice~” They reason with themself, before remembering...

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“The cookie doesn’t seem to be any trouble, Bubs...”

“But, princess!”

“Hey... I know the dangers of the outside. Why do you think I took them in?”

“But what if they’re dangerous, too?”

“We’ll be fine, Bubs. Trust me, please...”

*defeated sigh* “You know I can’t say no to you...”

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...

“I can’t let that happen again... I let everyone get killed before, I won’t let them experience that, either.” They clench their hands. “Never again...”