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Countless years ago, Cookie Kind knew only the chaos of iron and flame. The blazing heat of oven fire, the crushing vice-like grip, and then… Death. In between the teeth of their creators, the Witches. Out of every batch that were baked, only one or two escaped with their lives. After a few years, the survivors made their way into the forest surrounding the Witch’s house, and slowly grew into a small community of Cookies. But the Witch eventually learned of this small town and went into the forest to seek out her missing Cookies. As fate would have it, she found the small settlement. But before any other Cookie could be eaten, one stepped forward with a proposition. His name was Saint Pastry Cookie.

“Let us live, and we will worship you and your kind as gods! We will even offer up the sweetest and crispest of our kind to you, if only you let the softer and weaker ones live!”

The Witch enjoyed the idea of being worshiped by these tiny creatures, so she agreed to the terms. Once a year she would return to the settlement and Saint Pastry Cookie would give her the sweetest and crispiest Cookies to devour. They would come willingly, smiling, as they knew their death would save so many lives. For years Saint Pastry Cookie led his people and taught them prayers and songs of worship to appease the Witch. She could sometimes hear their songs from her home, and it pleased her. So she let them live. The cycle continued year after year. And slowly the community grew larger and larger.

After a while, some Cookies started opposing the sacrifices, they didn’t like the idea of their children and loved ones being freely given to the monster. Some sweeter Cookies asked to be spared. “Must we die? Surely there is another way?” They would cry. “Have you no shame, you selfish Cookie?!” Saint Pastry Cookie would cry, “You are the ones chosen to protect our community from the Godly’s wrath! If you do not fulfill that purpose you will bring death and destruction upon us all!” Such harsh words were usually enough to keep the Cookies in their place… For a while. But as the community grew and grew, whispers and rumors began to surface.

“We are strong in number now, surely we can revolt against the Witch. If we all stand together, we can gain our freedom!”

Saint Pastry Cookie heard these whispers and was greatly displeased. He had grown to enjoy the power he wielded as Keeper of the Order. And he was not willing to give it up any time soon. The order of the world, Cookies were made to be eaten. There was no point in fighting that. He stood at the center of town and made flamboyant speeches about the importance of keeping the Godly placated, calling those who opposed the order of the world traitors. He said if the infidels were not dealt with the Witch would be angered and raze their home to the ground. They were too impure to be sacrificed to the Witch, so they would be dealt with another way.

Cookies who were found to oppose the Godly and Saint Pastry Cookie’s Order… Were burned at the stake for the crime of blasphemy. That put the fear of the Godly back in them… For a while. Saint Pastry Cookie knew it would only be a matter of time before his people rose up against him again, he would need to do something else. Something more drastic, to ensure he kept himself in the Witch’s good graces… And in power over his community. So he built a Sanctuary deeper in the woods. A Sanctuary only his most loyal followers knew of and he charged them to keep watch over it.

Children started disappearing from the cradles. Fires started breaking out with no apparent cause. When his people asked him to do something about it he replied, “Is it not obvious? The Godly have been angered. I have a solution, I have found a proper place of worship for us. Let us go and I will show you what a pure Cookie looks like. Perhaps you can all strive for the level of purity those Cookies have. And the Godly will be pleased with us again.”

The Cookies of the community were shocked to learn of the Sanctuary's existence. But they were even more so surprised to learn of the Cookies who lived within. They wore beautiful white clothing, carried themselves with the most graceful and elegant posture. They read from books that detailed how to appease the Godly. They were detached from the world in all ways but for worship. They were pure. They were perfect. The children were raised by the Mothers. Nuns chosen by Saint Pastry Cookie himself to watch over their care. He told the children if they stayed pure enough they too could be Mothers one day.

From day one, these young Cookies were taught that the Godly were loving and kind creators, who loved nothing more than to hear their voices rise in song. Only the most loyal and devoted of faith would grow up to learn the truth and learn that their duty was to keep the truth a secret to the rest of Cookie Kind in order to preserve the world’s order. And keep the “lesser minded” Cookies from angering the Godly. And behind closed doors, Saint Pastry Cookie continued to weave his web of lies and sacrifice Cookies of his Order to the Godly. Truth mixed with lies, the children of the community were taught the Witches protected them, not that they needed protection from them. The sacrifices continued… Until the day the Witch grew too old to make the journey into the woods. And decided to leave the little town of desserts be.

Nevertheless, Saint Pastry Cookie continued to spread his false teachings all over Earthbread, until his Order became a powerful group that spread all over Earthbread. These falsehoods continued to echo throughout Cookie history for years, long after his crumbling, as the Order grew bigger, stronger.

Until one day… Two young Cookies decided to find the truth for themselves.

Their names.

Pure Vanilla Cookie and White Lily Cookie.

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Pure Vanilla Cookie and White Lily Cookie.

They had been best friends since they were students at the Blueberry Yogurt Academy, where they studied magic. But also… Sought the truth. Both of them had their suspicions about the Order’s teachings, despite both being devout followers. They knew the Witches were kind and loving creators who protected the Cookies. But there were contradictions in some of the Teachings, and scientific journals and some half-torn personal diaries or history documents belonging to naysayers of the Witches that told otherwise. These books were forbidden of course, but the two weren’t afraid to break a few rules in search of truth.

Then, White Lily Cookie learned of the Night of the Witches, a grand feast held by the Godly once every thousand years. The two journeyed to the Godly Cake Tower together, and learned the truth. It was a horrible sight for the two Cookies to witness. Their own kind being torn apart by the very beings who gave them life. The revelation was too much for poor Pure Vanilla Cookie to bear, so he shut his eyes. White Lily Cookie on the other hand, tried to convince the Cookies of the Banquet to escape with them. But they refused, saying it was their destiny, and they were happy to fulfill their purpose.

White Lily Cookie had no desire to fulfill such a purpose. She had her free will and consciousness. Surely she wasn’t born just to die. However, fate being the cruel thing that it was, tried to push her into that destiny. White Lily Cookie, in shock, tumbled back and fell into a bowl of boiling Cookie dough. Because he had his eyes shut Pure Vanilla Cookie hadn’t seen her fall until it was too late. He ran and hid to avoid being seen, while the Witches took White Lily Cookie, and trapped her inside a burning oven. The poor Cookie could only shut his eyes and cover his ears as his friend's tortured screams grew louder and louder. He sobbed bitterly, cursing himself for his uselessness. He could have saved her. He SHOULD have saved her. Lily, I’m so sorry. Then… White Lily Cookie went silent. Pure Vanilla Cookie was just about ready to give up and reveal himself to the Witches when suddenly, lightning burst from the oven White Lily Cookie had been imprisoned in.

Explosions, screams, fire, blasts of Crimson Moon Magic. The Night of the Witches descended into chaos and destruction. Once the smoke cleared, Pure Vanilla Cookie could see the silhouette of a lone Cookie, standing in the darkness. She was swaying slightly, as if injured or confused. Or both. He understood she was the source of the incredible power that defeated the Witches, but as he grew closer to her, he realized he recognized her eyes.

“White Lily Cookie?”

The newly rebaked Cookie was staring down at her hands, her body, her dough. Everything had changed, except for the soft way she looked at him with her beautiful, scarlet, tear-filled eyes.

“Pure Vanilla Cookie?”

He was overjoyed to see she was alright, he embraced her and comforted her. Assuring her everything would be alright. The two returned to their home, and together, they revealed the truth of the Witches and the secrets of the Order to Cookie Kind. The Witches returned soon after, but this time the two Cookies were ready. They, along with the help of their friends and fellow Cookies, overthrew the Witches and chased them out of the land forever. Freeing the Cookies from the lies of the past and the cruelty of the Witches.

The five Cookies who led the battle were known as the Five Ancient Heroes. Tales of their deeds still resonate throughout history in songs and stories today. These five were blessed with Soul Jam of the Purest Kind. Wise and powerful they rallied others to their cause. And ruled over the Cookies as kings and queens, bringing in a golden age of peace and prosperity.

And who were the Five Ancient Heroes? Allow me to introduce you.

Hollyberry Cookie, the light of Passion. Ruler of the Hollyberry Kingdom. She was the most able-bodied of the Heroes, fearlessly taking the front with her shield to protect the Cookies she called her friends. And it was very easy to become friends with her. She loved a good party and always wore a cheerful smile. Even while fighting a dragon! Her kingdom was the most joyous of the four.

Dark Cacao Cookie, the light of Resolution. Ruler of the Dark Cacao Kingdom. Battle born and war scared, this Cookie was a strong and selfless warrior, whose dough had been hardened by years of fierce battle and biting cold. He led the charge of every battle, vowing to win or die with honor. No matter the weight on his shoulders he never bent under pressure. And he trained his soldiers to fight with honor and resolution. His kingdom was the strongest of the four.

Golden Cheese Cookie, the light of Prosperity. Ruler of the Golden Cheese Kingdom. Although she ruled with an iron fist, she led her kingdom to amass great wealth. The fields were rich and her coffers were full of priceless treasures. All that shined belonged to her kingdom. Her people were known for their exquisite taste and rich culture. Hers was the most prosperous of the four kingdoms.

Pure Vanilla Cookie, the light of Truth. Ruler of the Vanilla Kingdom. A beautiful and peaceful land of healing and mercy. His people enjoyed a simple, carefree life. Free from worries or sorrows. As their kind and gracious king, he protected his people from harm. And his magic could heal any pain or sadness. He was a wise and loving ruler, who treated strangers as friends, and his people as family. His soothing sweet Vanilla scent could calm even the most cranky of Cookies. His was the most peaceful of the four kingdoms.

And last, but certainly not least, Dark Enchantress Cookie. (Formerly White Lily Cookie, prior to the Tragedy during the Night of the Witches.) Despite being a Dark Lord, she also represented one of the five lights of Unity. She was the light of Hope. And while she did not have a kingdom of her very own, she was still credited with many important achievements that bettered Dessert Kind. She not only defeated the Witches on the Night of the Witches, but she also ended the centuries long jam feud between the Cakes and Cookies. With her leading the peace negotiations, she brought the two species into an age of harmony and coexistence, where once there had been turmoil and jamshed.

Together they were the Five Ancient Heroes, the Lights of Unity. Wherever they traveled, peace and prosperity would soon follow. These brave and selfless Cookies fought any foe that dared to threaten their beautiful homes, and the peace they held so dear.

But now, a new foe has risen to challenge that peace. Deep within the halls of the Vanilla Kingdom, swords clash and magic blasts as the Ancient Heroes once again stand between their kingdoms and ruin.

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“Dark Cacao Cookie, look out!” Golden Cheese Cookie shouted, tossing a spear. The shout gave him just enough time to duck, avoiding both the spear and the creature that was lunging for him. The spear made impact, and the round creature exploded. Splattering golden yellow dust and gooey light yellow cream everywhere. Hollyberry jumped in front of Dark Cacao to shield him from the spray. The creatures’ remains were exceptionally sticky, the heroes had to be careful not to get any of it on them or their mobility would be restricted. In battle, that could spell disaster.

The creatures were different shapes and sizes but they all seemed to be made out of the same stuff. Their bodies were gooey yellow custard and cream, their goopy bodies were held together by rune-inscribed bandages that wrapped around the creatures, giving them a mummy-like appearance. Some had horns, some had one eye, some had eyes all over their body, some had long spindly arms and legs, some five or six appendages. Some were as small as a PupCake while others were four times the Cookies’ size. No one knows exactly where these Custard Gremlins, or Cremlins, as they were named, came from. The most widely accepted theory was they were born from a magic Custard Volcano. It made sense considering that volcano had been dormant for years but had recently erupted without warning. Dark Enchantress Cookie had a more sinister theory. These creatures looked like the result of a failed magic experiment. They had been created for one purpose… To spread the curse.

The curse had spread suddenly and swiftly through the Kingdoms. A Cookie would be found with glowing rune-inscribed bandages over their eyes, and they would do everything in their power to lure other Cookies into trying them on, claiming it would grant them eternal happiness if they did. And once that Cookie had the bandages over their eyes, they would become mindless servants to the curse.

Not only did the heroes have to deal with the Cremlins, but there were also strange plant-like creatures as well. They looked like giant Vanilla Orchards, but with bodies made of thorny vines and claw-like hands. They led the onslaught, trying to attack the Cookies so the Cremlins could immobilize them, then… The Cursed Cookies would appear to finish the job.

Pure Vanilla Cookie reeled back in shock and let out a cry when a Cursed child jumped onto his back. He tried to shake them off, but the little Cookie was already placing a glowing bandage over his face. Dark Enchantress Cookie gasped and ran to her friend’s aid. “No, get off him, bad!” She shouted scoldingly at the Cursed child as she pulled it off Pure Vanilla Cookie and threw them across the room. They bounced harmlessly, and giggled as if this was all just some fun game. “Pure Vanilla Cookie, are you alright?” The Dark Lord asked. “Yes, yes, don’t worry about me,” he said, peeling off the parts of the bandage that had managed to stick.

He screamed in pain and doubled over slightly. Dark Enchantress Cookie held her hands out to support him. “Don’t let those things blind you! You know what will happen!” He said to the rest of his friends. Not only were the Cursed Cookies trying to place bandages over their eyes, but the bandages would also erupt from the ground and walls at times. Glowing yellow and blue, and with a mind of their own. Dark Cacao Cookie made short work of them with his sword. Once cut, the bandages would lose their power, and fall lifeless to the floor. “GET BACK!” He shouted, swinging his sword at a group of advancing Cursed Cookies as they waddled towards him.

“Dark Cacao Cookie, please don’t hurt them!” Dark Enchantress Cookie shouted. “It’s not their fault! They’re affected by the curse!” She looked at the group of smiling, blinded Cookies. “This is… Oh… What a horrible sight. These poor Cookies have had their free will and consciousness stripped from them.” She sounded like she was about to cry. “Don’t be getting soft on us, Chanty! Focus! You wanna help them, help us stop the curse!” Dark Cacao replied. “Right,” she said with a nod, gripping her Candy Cane Staff of Darkness tighter.

“The whole place is covered in Cookie crumbs and Cremlin Cream,” Hollyberry Cookie remarked with disgust. “Foul sticky cream… The stench of burnt butter in the air,” Dark Cacao added. “What on Earthbread is going on here?!” Golden Cheese Cookie said. “Hummm… It’s not good. We need to find who created this curse and put a stop to them!” Pure Vanilla Cookie exclaimed. He sighed. “This is all my fault. I should have been here to prevent this.” Dark Enchantress Cookie looked at him with sorrowful eyes. “No, dear friend. I was the one you trusted to watch over your kingdom in your absence if there’s any Cookie to blame for this… It’s me…”

“You two can play the blame game later! Right now we have more pressing matters to attend to!” Hollyberry Cookie said. “Right, let us make haste!” Pure Vanilla Cookie exclaimed. The Heroes continued to battle their way through wave after wave of enemies.

“Cover my flank!” Pure Vanilla Cookie shouted at Golden Cheese Cookie.

“No need to worry. I’m on your side. Haha, get it? On your side?” Golden Cheese Cookie giggled.

“Ha ha ha, hilarious,” Dark Cacao Cookie replied sarcastically.

“Lily, look out!” Hollyberry shouted as she grabbed Dark Enchantress Cookie and pulled her out of the way of a Cursed Cookie and hid her behind her shield. “Are you alright?” The Dark Lord chuckled in response. “Yes, Hollyberry. I’m fine. You know I’m not the delicate little flower I used to be.”

“Evil begone!” Dark Cacao shouted as he tore apart the last Cremlin, who screeched in pain and dissolved into a puddle of sticky goo.

The Cookies took a second to catch their breath. “Well… I think that’s the last of them,” Dark Cacao remarked, planting his sword next to him. “The last of them maybe, but what do we do about THOSE!?” Hollyberry shouted, pointing at the small group of Cursed Cookies that were slowly making their way towards them. Arms outstretched with glowing Cursed Bandages in their hands, and chanting,

“Silence, quiet. Rest in peace. Close your eyes, and sleep, sleep sleep. Quiet, silence. Rest in peace. Close your eyes, and sleep, sleep, sleep.”

The Heroes were backed into a tight huddle as they were forced to slowly retreat to keep distance between them and the curse. “Well, I don’t know about you guys, but I’m definitely not sleeping tonight,” Dark Cacao Cookie groaned. “We can’t fight them the way we fight the Cremlins! They’re my people! If we fight them, we risk hurting them!” Pure Vanilla Cookie shouted. “But if we don’t fight them, we risk falling victim to the curse as well!” Hollyberry Cookie shouted. “In between a Pop Rock and a hard place,” Dark Cacao mused. “May I suggest a third option?” Dark Enchantress Cookie spoke up. “Which is?” Golden Cheese asked, pointing her spear threateningly at the Cookies in an attempt to ward them off. “Sneak past them!” Dark Enchantress Cookie exclaimed, raising her staff over her head, spinning it a few times, and then slamming the tip to the ground. A shockwave of shadow fell over the Heroes. And the next time one of the Cursed Cookies tried to touch them or their weapons, they passed right through them as if they were made of smoke.

The Cursed Cookies mumbled confusedly among one another upon touching air where they were certain they’d felt the dough of Cookies just seconds ago. “A cloaking spell, good thinking, Dark Enchantress Cookie!” Dark Cacao said. Her cheeks turned a slight pink from the compliment. The Heroes then passed by the confused Cookies as easily as water over a rock. Dark Enchantress Cookie stopped to scoop up a couple of the fallen bandages. Perhaps later she could perform a few experiments to find out what kind of spell they were enchanted with. And hopefully, she could find a way to reverse it. “Hey, why didn’t you think of this earlier? Would have made it WAY easier to get past the Cremlins,” Golden Cheese said. “It does take a lot of Mana and the spell only lasts a few minutes, so it wouldn’t have been as effective then,” Dark Enchantress Cookie replied. “Besides, we had to take those things down so they wouldn’t hurt anyone else,” Pure Vanilla Cookie added.

“HELP!!!”

The group’s conversation was interrupted by a shout. “Guys, look!” Hollyberry exclaimed, pointing ahead of them. At the end of the hallway was a Vanillian being dragged away by two cursed Cookies. They were kicking and screaming, eyes wide with fright. “LET ME GO! LET ME GO! SOMEBODY, PLEASE HELP ME!” The Heroes wasted no time in trying to cover the distance between them to rescue the Cookie, but before they could stop them, the Cookie was dragged into a room. And the door shut behind them. “That’s the door to the Chamber of Audiences!” Pure Vanilla Cookie said. “Hmmmmm…. It seems most of the attacks have been coming from this direction. Whoever or whatever is responsible for this must be behind that door,” Dark Cacao reasoned. “Well, what are we waiting for? Let’s go give ‘em a piece of our minds!” Hollyberry Cookie said, rolling her sleeve up and making it perfectly clear she was ready to kick the door down. Golden Cheese and Dark Enchantress stepped in front of her. “Hollyberry, wait!” Golden Cheese exclaimed. “For all we know this could be a trap! There could be thousands of Cremlins and Thorn Orchards in there waiting to ambush us!”

“Besides, they have that poor Cookie held captive. They could hurt him if we go in there magic blazing,” Dark Enchantress Cookie added. Hollyberry huffed and crossed her arms over her chest. But she agreed to take a look first. Dark Cacao opened the door just a crack, Hollyberry peeked into the room beneath him, Golden Cheese flew above to get a higher view through the crack, and Pure Vanilla and Dark Enchantress crouched near the floor to see through.

The two Cursed Cookies were holding the Vanillian on his knees in front of a Cookie who had their back turned to the Heroes, so they couldn’t see his face. He wore what looked like a Waffle Cone cape, but the ends of the cape ended in sharp points and it had been fortified by being dipped in dark chocolate. When the Cookie stretched his arms out to the side, it gave him the appearance of having wings. He wore a large pointy hat and a long white robe with drooping sleeves. The outfit looked otherworldly or ceremonious. It looked as if it was supposed to give him an angelic appearance, but any comforting aspect of his outfit was ruined by the many long strips of rune-inscribed bandages coming from under his cape, slithering in the air around him like tentacles.

“Stop! Please! Let me go! Please don’t hurt me!” The frightened Vanillian cried. “Hurt you?” The strange Cookie replied. “Now, now, my sweet Cookie. Why would you think I want to hurt you?” The Vanillian scoffed, “Maybe, because you invaded our home! Attacked us with your monsters! And then tried to place everybody under a curse!”

“I don’t see any Cremlins, just that Cookie,” Hollyberry whispered. “He must be the source of the curse, look at the bandages he’s controlling,” Dark Cacao added. “The same bandages that are wrapped around the Cursed Cookies’ eyes,” Dark Enchantress Cookie added.

“A curse?” The Cookie sounded hurt. “You call my beautiful gift to Cookie Kind a curse? Ah ha ha, but of course, you don’t understand yet. You will once you feel the peace my bindings have to offer you,” the Cookie said, taking one of the floating bandages in his hand and bending down to place it behind the Cookie’s head. The Cookie struggled, “No! NO! Get away! I don’t wanna be some mindless zombie!” The Cookie chuckled, “Of course you want this… You just don’t realize it yet. They always reject my gift at first, but in a moment… You’ll be thanking me, my child.”

“Now?” Hollyberry whispered to Pure Vanilla. “Now,” he replied with a nod. Hollyberry and Dark Cacao kicked the door in. “STOP RIGHT THERE!” Golden Cheese boomed. The Cookie stopped and turned to face them. He had a bandage over his eyes as well, and the front of his hat had a blue glowing symbol of an eye. And in one hand he held a staff of thorns with an eye on top. It was bloodshot and frantically darting from one place to the next, as if horrified by all it saw. He smiled, as if welcoming the heroes. The Vanillian gasped, “The Heroes! Thank goodness!”

“What do you think you’re doing? End this madness at once!” Dark Cacao shouted brandishing his weapon. “Friends, welcome. You misunderstand as well, I can see. This is not madness I work from, but mercy. I am helping these poor Cookies be free from pain and sorrow.”

“How is cursing them helping them?” Hollyberry shouted. The Cookie smiled and chuckled, “Perhaps you need a demonstration.” Quick as lighting, one of the floating bandages wrapped itself around the captive Vanillian’s eyes. He screamed and struggled but it was too late, the bandage had already made several layers. The Heroes could only watch helplessly in horror as the Cursed Cookies let him go and he fell to the floor. The Cookie in charge of the curse walked up to him. “Now, now, don’t fight it. Let all your bitter memories and worries be washed away. The world has many scary, ugly, and painful things. But they won’t bother you if you can’t see them. Suuusssssshhhhh. Only peace and happiness from now on my little Cookie. Silence, quiet. Rest in peace. Close your eyes… Close your eyes,” he whispered. The Vanillian’s breathing had started to steady. He lifted his head… And slowly began to smile.

Dark Enchantress Cookie thought she was going to be sick.

“There, now isn’t that better?” The Cookie asked the newly Cursed Cookie. “Ah…. Yes…. So much better. I’m not afraid anymore. Thank you my king.”

Dark Enchantress Cookie let out a gasp, she was fighting back tears. “Lily?” Pure Vanilla Cookie said, turning to her. “What wrong?” She swallowed hard and replied, “That…. Smile… That’s the same way the Cookies at the Banquet smiled at me. He’s… He’s just like them now! No will, no mind of his own, just blindly following a set fate like some drone in a hive mind!”

“Guys I think she’s having flashbacks,” Dark Cacao said. Golden Cheese ran to her friend and hugged her, “Hey, hey, it’s okay. Enchantress, you gotta get it together!”

“You see,” the Cookie said, “The thing you so foolishly call a curse is a wonderful blessing. Once you are blinded to the uglyness of the world you live your life as if you were asleep, wrapped in an eternal lullaby. Living a peaceful dream.”

“At the price of their autonomy!” Dark Cacao Cookie snapped. “How could you do something so cruel!?” Hollyberry Cookie shouted at the Cookie. “You have no right to just take their minds from them!” Dark Enchantress Cookie added. “This is worse than anything the Witches ever done! Just who do you think you are!?” The Cookie chuckled in response, “Oh, silly me. Where are my manners? I haven't even introduced myself yet. I am the true guardian of Cookie Kind. Bringer of the Sonmum Aeternus Blessing. A spell of my own creation. I. Am…”

“Bitter Truth Cookie!”

“Bitter… Truth Cookie?” Dark Enchantress Cookie echoed. Something was wrong. “You know how they say ignorance is bliss?” Bitter Truth Cookie continued. “Well I intend to share that bliss with all Cookies. Think about it? Why are children always so happy and carefree? Because they are ignorant. They have their loving parents to protect them from how ugly and cruel the world really is. These Cookies… Are my children. And any Cookie who wears one of my bindings and closes their eyes forever. Will know that bliss… Once again.”

“By lying to them and telling them everything is ok? Your whole philosophy is based on the idea that if you ignore a problem it will just go away! That’s not how that works!” Hollyberry Cookie shouted. “Yeah, I’m seeing some flaws in this plan,” Golden Cheese Cookie added, crossing her arms over her chest. “Sounds good on paper, but I don’t think that would work in practice,” Dark Cacao Cookie agreed. “Come now. I know you all have very painful and bitter memories. I can take all that away. I can give you eternal peace and happiness. I can protect you from all the pain in the world.”

“We don’t need your curse for protection! We have each other!” Hollyberry Cookie exclaimed, raising her shield. “We are strong united! We face our hardships together!” Golden Cheese Cookie added. “Only a coward hides from adversity! We are together in peace and in battle! This is our strength!” Dark Cacao snapped. “We don’t need your lies to hide behind! Whatever challenge may come our way, we face it head on!” Dark Enchantress Cookie cheered. Pure Vanilla Cookie stayed silent.

“Ah, we’re doing this the hard way are we? Alright, let’s see how long you can last!” Bitter Truth Cookie shouted, raising his hands. Rune-inscribed bandages exploded from the ground, Cremlins appeared in a flash of light. “Get ready my friends!” Pure Vanilla Cookie shouted. “Stay together!” Hollyberry cheered. “You will regret this,” Dark Cacao hissed at the Cookie.

“Evil begone!”

“Outta my way!”

“Kneel before me!”

“I will not falter!”

“Let there be chaos!”

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Despite giving it their all, the Heroes found themselves laying on the floor in a crumpled heap. Burned, bruised, cracked and oozing jam in several places. They fought bravely, and while Bitter Truth Cookie was panting and sweating from the fight. He wasn’t down for the count. “Impressive,” he mused. “No Cookie has been able to fend off my gift for so long. But you’re all just being stubborn. Playtime’s over! It’s time… For you all… To sleep…. Forever. Ha ha ha ha aha ha ha ha!”

Five new bandages appeared to replace the ones that had been cut down in the fight. But now the Heroes were too weak to fend them off properly. Dark Enchantress Cookie watched helplessly as Hollyberry tried to swat them away. Pure Vanilla Cookie pulled his hat down over his face. Golden Cheese curled herself into a ball and covered her face with her wings in an effort to protect herself. The yellow and blue glow of the bonds blinded Dark Enchantress Cookie. From the part of her vision that wasn’t blurry, she could see Bitter Truth Cookie floating above them and smiling triumphantly.

There were two things Dark Enchantress Cookie treasured most in Earthbread. Her free will and her friends. She wasn’t about to lose either of them.

She gathered every last bit of Mana she had in her body and raised her staff. The shadows sent a burst of energy through her jam, but she knew it wouldn’t last for long. She had to be quick. She rushed Bitter Truth Cookie, covering her friends in darkness and allowing her magic to levitate her to Bitter Truth Cookie’s level. Pure Vanilla Cookie realized what she planned to do and reached out for her. As the shadows consumed him he shouted, “Dark Enchantress Cookie! NOOOOOOOO!!!”

She put every ounce of her Dark Magic into one single blast. Bitter Truth Cookie countered with a ray of light. They met in the middle. The power between the two blasts grew and grew until it became unstable. What followed was a massive explosion that consumed the entire kingdom. In her final moments Dark Enchantress Cookie could have sworn she heard her friends calling out for her. But the last thing she saw, was the smile on Bitter Truth Cookie’s face.

In the wake of the massive explosion, the Heroes and Bitter Truth Cookie vanished. Many believe the Heroes had sacrificed themselves to save their homes, and the curse had died with them. But others believe that both the Heroes and the curse still walk Earthbread’s lands. Lying in wait, for destiny to call upon them to unite once more. And who will rise to help the fallen Heroes retake their proper places and defeat the curse once and for all?

The answer comes in the form of a small, ordinary Cookie. Whose life was just about to truly begin.

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I’m dead, I’m dead, I’m dead, I’m dead, I’m dead, I’m dead, I’m dead! Red Velvet Cookie’s mind screamed. I just had to be the hero. You guys run while I distract the Witch! What was I thinking?! She probably wouldn’t have tried to eat them anyway! Licorice Cookie’s flavor is super gross and Poison Mushroom Cookie is literally toxic! But no! I just had to open my big fat… YIKES!

Red Velvet Cookie’s heart skipped a beat as the Witch’s hand came dangerously close to closing in on him. He barely managed to jump out of the way in time. In front of him was the seemingly endless stretch of counter top in the Witch’s kitchen. Greasy and wet with jam and littered with Cookie and Cake crumbs. Some chunks were even large enough for their flavors to be identified. Behind him was the literal window to freedom. He wasn’t a very fast runner, but he was a good jumper, so the only thing he could do to keep distance between him and the Witch’s maw of death, was to leap across the various jars and bags of ingredients that lay across the counter top. All while the Witch tried to grab him and make him her next snack.

She took swing after swing at the tiny dessert. Knocking stuff over in the process. He could hear the sound of glass shattering as yet another jar dropped to the floor. He leapt onto a bag of flour, and turned. He didn’t even have time to catch his breath as he hoped, the Witch was already reaching for him again. Her fingers barely managed to brush his legs as he leapt again, causing him to lose his balance and tumble. Good news though, she managed to knock over the flour in the process and send a cloud of the white powder into the air. Blinding her just long enough for Red Velvet Cookie to leap out of sight and hide behind the various jars in an upper cabinet.

He sat down and placed his hand to his chest, trying to still his rapidly beating heart. The strength of its pounding in his chest was so painful that it brought tears to his eyes. He looked back towards the window, and sighed in relief as he saw the end of Licorice Cookie’s white cloak disappear off the windowsill. They’d made it. They were safe. He could still hear the Witch in the middle of a coughing fit. Good, maybe the noise she was making would drown out his own breathing and rapid heartbeat until he could get them under control. Of course he knew he didn’t have long. If he just stayed here she would find him eventually. And then… Red Velvet Cookie swallowed a lump in his throat. Tears fell down his face, he struggled to keep his cries from turning into sobs. She would definitely hear him then. Oh, why did I ever leave the basement?

The Witch’s basement had been the only world he’d known for his entire life. He’d heard of the outside world of course, from other Cookies who would sneak down into the basement for shelter from the Witch. Or from the various books that Licorice Cookie would constantly have his nose in. The thing he wanted to know most about the outside world was the Cookie Paradise. Rumored to be a beautiful land, safe from Witches where Cookies lived in peace and happiness. Where there were more jellies than they could ever eat in their lifetimes and things called beds to sleep on at night. Rumored to be softer than marshmallows. The Paradise was bright and colorful, unlike the dark, damp, and gloomy atmosphere of the basement. Every Cookie who’d ever been to the basement said that’s where they were going. So they would always leave after a day or two. Which always upset Poison Mushroom Cookie.

“I think it’s a metaphor for death if you ask me,” Licorice Cookie said. “You don’t believe in the Cookie Paradise, Licorice Cookie?” Red Velvet asked him. “It just… Sounds too good to be true is all. I mean come on! An entire community made by Cookies who escaped the Witch? How many Cookies do we know that have actually done that?”

“Well, we’ve never seen if they have or not. The way to the outside is an open window in the Kitchen,” Red Velvet replied. At least, that’s what he heard. Licorice Cookie scoffed. “Yeah, the Kitchen. The birthplace, and in most cases, final resting grounds for Cookies. Sure, maybe this place is real and that’s where we have to go to get there. But you know what you’d have to get past in order to get to that window? Forks, knives, plates, mousetraps, jars… And the Witch.”

“Oh, come on Licorice Cookie,” Red Velvet Cookie said, jumping down from his perch on the bookshelf. “I hear the Cookie Paradise was built with the help of magic. And if there’s a civilization, they have to keep records of all kinds of spells and… Who knows, there might even be some records on Dark Magic.” Licorice Cookie looked up from the giant book he was reading. (Well, giant for him. Normal sized for a Witch.) “I know what you’re trying to do, Red Velvet. Don’t tell me you’re actually thinking of trying that crazy stunt!”

“Well… Not yet. But I’m gonna keep training. I’m gonna get faster, stronger. Once I know I’m ready. We can all escape together!” Licorice Cookie looked away. He made a compelling argument. He already knew every spell in these books. He’d read every one cover to cover at least five times each. Licorice Cookie’s dream was to be a Wizard. He’d been fascinated with magic since he was a child. But he knew there was only so much he could teach himself from the dusty old books in the Witch’s basement. “I for one wouldn’t mind knowing if the rumors were true, meowster,” Bat-Cat, Licorice Cookie’s pet, mewed. “And what is it you think you’ll find out there, Bat-Cat?”

“Word from the other winged creatures is that the outside has no walls or roof. Just endless space as far as the eye can see! Mee-wee! Imagine, me-ow being able to fly forever!”

“Or for the love of… Don’t tell me you’ve been talking to those Crows again. You know they’re a bunch of bird brains! Besides, what would a world without walls even look like?”

“Well the spiders say…”

“You can’t trust the spiders either, they’re pathological liars. Where do you think we got the phrase ‘oh what tangled webs we weave when first we practice to deceive’ from?”

“Would there be other Cookies in the Cookie Paradise?” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked. “Lots! And since they wouldn’t have to run away from anything, they wouldn’t leave like the Cookies here do. You could get to know them better,” Red Velvet Cookie said. “You mean… I could make… New Cookie friends!?” Poison Mushroom Cookie gasped with wide eyed delight. Poison Mushroom Cookie always had a problem with being alone. He would follow Red Velvet or Licorice around like their little shadow. The two would usually take turns watching over him (although Licorice Cookie’s turns were usually longer). If Poison Mushroom Cookie fell asleep and woke to find neither of them were in his line of sight, he would sob uncontrollably until one of them came running to comfort him. The only time he was comfortable with being alone was when he was working in his little makeshift garden. A dark and damp corner of the basement where he would grow his Shroomies.

“Trust me, one day. I’ll be strong enough, and then we’ll all escape together!” Red Velvet Cookie promised.

But now, Licorice and Poison Mushroom were the ones who had made it to safety, while he was still trapped inside. Get it together, Red Velvet Cookie. You’ll never get out of here alive if you don’t get moving. Red Velvet focused his energy into forcing himself to stand, his hearing and smell were on hyperalert. He quickly looked over his surroundings. He was in a cabinet lined with jars. Jars filled with the remains of various creatures, bat wings, frog legs, things Red Velvet didn’t even recognize. Other unfortunate souls that had met their end at the hands of the Witch. He almost made the mistake of screaming when he thought the Witch had spotted him, when he realized it was just a jar full of eyeballs. I gotta get outta here.

His heart leapt into his throat again when he heard a sudden sound. It had come from inside the cabinet. Something was in here with him. Red Velvet pressed his back against a jar and scanned the cabinet in search of the thing that made the noise. Then he spotted something moving. What was it? A rat? They tried to eat Cookies as well. He couldn’t count how many times he and his friends would get into fights over food or turf in the basement with the rats. But without Licorice Cookie’s magic or homemade scythe or Poison Mushroom Cookie’s Shroomies to scare it away, he was helpless. All he knew how to do was run or hide. And with the Witch outside, he was stuck between a rock and a hard place.

Slowly the creature moved from out behind a jar. Red Velvet Cookie realized it was too small to be a rat. And the noise it was making wasn’t a squeak… It was a bark. A tiny, doughy nose stuck out from behind the jar. White frosting fur and bright brown eyes stared back at him. Its strawberry ears perked up when it caught sight of the Cookie. It tilted its head curiously. A pupcake? Red Velvet had never seen a living Cake before. He’d only seen their remains on a plate or scattered about as forgotten crumbs. Or as a picture in a book. It was adorable. So small, barely larger than Bat-Cat. Those round eyes, that pink tongue stuck out of the side of its mouth. Red Velvet Cookie’s heart melted at the sight of the tiny creature.

“Hey,” he said softly, attempting to both not frighten the pup and to avoid being heard by the Witch. “Hey little guy, don’t be afraid. Come here,” he said, holding his arm out and bending on one knee to be closer to the Cake. “I’m not going to hurt you.” The Cake wagged its tail and practically leapt into his arms. He was knocked back by the force of the little Cake’s excitement. And he found himself on his back while the tiny creature snuggled against his chest, making happy barking noises and licking his face. “Ha ha ha, no stop! Down boy, down. Shussh! The Witch will hear you.” The pupcake seemed to understand him and stopped. Red Velvet Cookie ran his hand through the tiny pup’s soft frosting fur. It was so warm and soft. And unlike Bat-Cat, it seemed to enjoy being petted. He loved the way the tiny creature smelled, he’d never seen anything this cute in his entire life. All fear and anxiety he’d felt the moment before melted away. He nuzzled the Cake against his cheek and the Cake wagged his tail happily.

Red Velvet’s heart nearly exploded out of his chest again when he heard the Witch’s voice. “Where are you, little Cookie? Come out, come out wherever you are. And I’ll reward you with a quick death.” That croak had been the focus of his nightmares for his entire life. He started shaking violently, but then the pupcake in his arms placed his paws on Red Velvet Cookie’s chest. He looked into his eyes, and his fear dissipated like a cloud of smoke. This little pupcake was in danger too. If the Witch found them, they would both be devoured. Having something greater than himself to save gave Red Velvet newfound determination and resolve. Strength returned to his once weary limbs as he forced himself to stand. “Don’t worry, I’m gonna get us outta here,” he whispered to the pupcake in his arms as he sat him down. Red Velvet Cookie peeked out from behind a jar into the kitchen.

The Witch was looking through her cabinets, it wouldn’t be long until she found the one they were hiding in. The counter top offered no cover, if he jumped down and made a run for it he would be completely exposed. And there was still considerable distance to cover before he made it to the window. Am I fast enough to make it without getting caught? There was no way of knowing. And too much was at stake to risk getting the answer wrong. But before Red Velvet Cookie could think of a plan, the Cake Hound jumped onto the counter and started barking loudly. Red Velvet gasped in horror. “Little pupcake, no!” There was no way the Witch wouldn’t notice him. And she did. The Cake barked and bounced up and down. Her face contorted into an ugly scowl. “Gah! You again, you little pest!” The Cake barked happily and wagged his tail in response. The Witch tried to grab him, but the Cake Hound’s small size made it near impossible to catch him. He effortlessly jumped out of her way, and ran across the counter. Away from the window, jumping on this thing and that thing while the Witch angrily yelled at the tiny dessert.

Wow. He’s really fast, Red Velvet thought to himself. And the Witch seemed to recognize him. Looks like this wasn’t their first encounter. He’d probably escaped from her many times before from the looks of it. His small size and speed made him near impossible to catch. “GET OVER HERE!” The Witch screamed as he ran past the remains of his brethren and fallen Cookies. Red Velvet Cookie suddenly realized the path to the window was clear now. I can escape while she’s distracted! There it was. The window to freedom. Warm light streamed through the opening as if welcoming him. He wasted no time in jumping onto the counter top and making a mad dash for the exit. The counter was so greasy from jam and melted butter that he nearly lost his footing a couple of times. He wondered if the Witch was just a naturally messy person, or if she chose to leave her counter covered with Cookie crumbs as a warning for any who tried to escape. The least she could do is finish them if she’s going to eat them. Such a waste.

There wasn’t time to think about that. There wasn’t time to mourn the fallen, he would meet the same fate if he lost even a second of precious time. He was going to make it. He was going to find his friends and they were going to find the Cookie Paradise. He noticed something sharp and shiny sticking out of the back of a half-eaten Cake. A jagged knife accented with a crimson gem near the base. It was in his direct path, so he leapt on top of some jars and grabbed the handle of the knife as he fell. Pulling it from the corpse. Perfect. Now he had something to defend himself with. He leapt from jar, to bag, to some unidentifiable mangled corpse of a creature. He was almost there, he could hear the sounds of the outside world now. Bird song, wind blowing through the trees. His heart swelled with joy at the thought of his life long dream becoming a reality. A life without fear, nights where he didn’t have to sleep with one eye open, always having a full stomach and never having to worry about when and where he would get his next meal from. Freedom from the Witch.

That dream was shattered. He lost his footing while jumping onto the edge of a wine glass. He’d forgotten the knife he carried added extra weight, and this caused the glass to tip over and send him tumbling over the side of the counter. Where the fall would definitely crumble him once he hit the bottom. Good news, he never did hit the floor and crumble. The bad news, that was because the Witch had given up her chase of the Cake Hound and turned her attention back to Red Velvet Cookie. She’d noticed his fumble and grabbed him before he hit the floor.

The pressure of the Witch’s fist clenching tighter around him was more than painful. He could practically feel cracks forming in various parts of his body from the strength of her vice-like grip. His left arm had been pinned awkwardly to his side and frozen in place. (This was, unfortunately, the arm he’d grabbed the knife with. He could feel its jagged edges being pressed against his dough. Drawing droplets of jam.) Only his head and right arm were free, and he could only move those a little as realization hit him and he desperately struggled to free himself. It was useless. He’d have a better chance of escaping if he’d been frozen in a block of ice. He fought the urge to throw up as he was lifted almost seven feet into the air, a dizzying height for a tiny Cookie. Red Velvet Cookie watched in horror as he looked into the Witch’s glassy eyes. He could feel her hot, rancid breath as she drew him closer. He wanted to scream, fight back, beg for his life, anything. But all he could do was watch in horror as he was brought closer to her jagged yellow teeth. The only comfort he had was that he couldn’t see very clearly through his tears.

He’d had countless nightmares like this, but this wasn’t a nightmare. This was reality. The experience was so much worse than he’d ever imagined. “No. No. No! NO!” The Witch’s teeth settled on his shoulder as his right arm was trapped inside her mouth. And then… It happened. The reality of his situation was seared into his mind as a burning pain exploded through him. The shockwaves of agony spread through his entire body, making him shake uncontrollably. He threw his head back and screamed. Tears ran down his face like twin rivers, as his arm was snapped from his body at the shoulder. He could hear the sickening crunch as his limb was mercilessly ripped from its place. His right side was covered in his own jam, its smell mixed with the Witch’s rotten breath. His hair stuck to his face where the jam had splattered. His ears were ringing, his vision was blurry.

He was going to die. He was going to die without ever having learned what freedom felt like. He lowered his head and sobbed. He was helpless, at the mercy of a creature that had none. His only prayer was that she ate his head next and ended it. His only comfort was knowing that his friends had made it out alive.

I don’t wanna die… I don’t wanna die! I DON’T WANNA DIE!

But there was nothing he could do now. The Witch was already pulling him closer for a second bite. Red Velvet could only hope this would be the last. Suddenly the Witch stopped. It was hard to hear through the pain, his head was pounding. But through the mental mud he could barely make out a noise. As if he was underwater and the sound was coming from above. He weakly tilted his head in the sound’s direction.

Bark! Bark! Bark!

It was the little pupcake from earlier. He was climbing up the Witch’s arm and barking loudly. The Witch growled angrily and tried to grab it with her free hand. But with Red Velvet in the other it made her movements clumsy and awkward. She missed. The Cake finally made it to her shoulder. He jumped. The Witch swung and missed. The Cake jumped again. Red Velvet Cookie was swung about in the Witch’s grip as she flailed about trying to grab the Cake Hound. He tried to call out for the tiny pup, to tell it to leave him and save himself before they were both devoured. But he was too weak. The edges of his vision were growing dark, and what he could see was blurry. The Cake jumped again, and this time he bit down on the Witch’s ear. Hard.

The Witch screeched in pain and recoiled back. Losing her grip on Red Velvet Cookie in the process. He was flung across the room and landed with a hard thud on the counter top. It took the Cookie a moment to get his bearings about him. What he could see through his failing vision made his heart leap with joy. He had landed right next to the window! A fresh set of tears fell from his face, not from pain or fear but from relief and happiness. All that was left to do was climb up the slanted book that made a ramp from the counter top to the window ledge. He forced himself to stand, clutching his sword in his remaining arm. He began a slow, painful walk to freedom. His steps were uneven and wobbly. His legs threatened to give out on him at any second, but he forced himself to move forwards. He was so close. So very close. He’d just escaped an inescapable death, he wasn’t about to let himself be eaten now. Not when he was THIS close.

Then, something flew through the air and landed near Red Velvet Cookie in a crumpled heap. It was the pupcake. Injured and whimpering, curled into a ball and oozing jam from one side. Red Velvet Cookie gasped in horror. He heard the Witch growl angrily. He wanted to look behind him to see how close she was but he knew better. The second he looked into those glassy eyes, he’d be frozen in terror. He had no time to waste. Every decision his muddled mind made could be the difference between life and death at this moment. He veered off course slightly, and scooped up the pupcake in his remaining arm. The ground shook, the Witch was coming for them. He likely had only a couple of seconds before she was on top of them. He was almost there, the ground shook again. He was standing on the windowsill now, looking out into the outside world, all he could make out was light and color. He smelled strange smells and felt an odd force. It felt like standing in front of a fan. (He didn’t recognize what wind was.)

A shadow fell over him, the Witch’s hand. Red Velvet Cookie was using every bit of his energy just to stay conscious. But he had to move so instead he focused that meager energy into. One. Last. Jump. He felt the Witch’s hand brush his legs as gravity overtook him. And he found himself falling and tumbling through the air, clutching the pupcake to his chest for dear life. Through the cloud in his mind he heard the Witch cursing. He didn’t even remember hitting the ground. The last thing he remembered before succumbing to exhaustion was thinking,

I made it. I’m free!

Chapter Text

“Helllooooo in there! Wakey, wakey! Rise and shine! Up, up, UP!”

“Uh… Wha…?” Red Velvet Cookie groaned.

“WAKE UP!”

Red Velvet Cookie slowly opened his eyes. He was greeted by the sight of a strange creature with beady black eyes and a large mustache. Red Velvet Cookie yelled in shock and knocked the creature over. It landed on its bottom with an “Oomph.” But luckily it seemed unharmed for the most part. “Who are? What are? Where am? When did?” Red Velvet Cookie stuttered. “Woah ho ho now, Bucko. That’s a lotta questions in under five seconds. Glad to see you’re finally awake though, doopity-doo!” The tiny creature replied. “Who? What are you?”

“Red Velvet Cookie?”

Red Velvet looked up to see two Cookies standing nearby with wide eyes and huge smiles. A gray Cookie with watery yellow eyes and a white cloak. And a smaller Cookie with earth toned dough and bright red eyes. Red Velvet recognized them immediately. “Licorice Cookie! Poison Mushroom Cookie! You guys are okay!” Poison Mushroom Cookie squealed with glee and embraced Red Velvet in a bear hug. “Red Velvet Cookie! You’re alive!” Licorice Cookie walked up to them and added, “We thought you were dead, man! We… We were outside a-and we heard you scream and… Oh, we thought the Witch had got you!” Red Velvet Cookie sighed, “She did… I don’t wanna talk about it…”

“What happened to your arm?” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked. “Like I said, I don’t wanna talk about it. Luckily that was the only part of me the Witch got before…”

“Um… Okay… But what about your new arm?” Licorice Cookie interrupted. “My… What?” Red Velvet Cookie said. He looked down at his right arm, and noticed something strange. First off, there shouldn’t have been anything there… But there was… It wasn’t made of Cookie dough. He lifted it up, it was red and white and smelled of Cake. It ended in a four fingered hand. He brought the new appendage close to his face and found he could move the strange fingers with relative ease. Opening and closing his new hand. He held both his arms out to compare them. The Cake one was thicker, longer, and… He stood up and moved his new Cake arm around a bit, making an almost circular shrugging motion with it. Yup, it felt stronger too.

“Okay… THIS is officially the WEIRDEST day of my life! I nearly get eaten by a Witch, get rescued by a Cake Hound, fell out a window, THIS!!!” He said pointing to his Cake arm with his Cookie arm. Licorice opened his mouth and raised his hand. “And, no! I don’t know how that happened, okay? The last thing I remember doing was jumping out a window! So, please don’t ask!” Licorice Cookie closed his mouth and lowered his hand. “And the next thing you know…” Red Velvet Cookie continued, “I’m waking up looking into the face of…” Red Velvet Cookie looked at the tiny, mustached creature that had awoken him. “I-I’m sorry… What… Who are you?”

“We are the Sugar Gnomes!” Another creature identical to the first said, suddenly appearing next to Red Velvet Cookie. “AHH!” Red Velvet Cookie exclaimed in surprise. “How many of you guys are there?” “Only us three,” another Sugar Gnome said, appearing from behind Licorice Cookie. “There used to be a lot more of us… But many of our brothers were lost in the wake of the Dark Flour War. Doopity-dee,” he said sadly. “Oh… I’m so sorry to hear that,” Poison Mushroom Cookie said. The other two joined the first. “I’m Charlie, this is Davis, and that’s Olaf,” the center one said, pointing to the other two. “Well, it’s nice to meet you!” Red Velvet Cookie said. Licorice Cookie sighed and placed a hand on Red Velvet Cookie’s shoulder. “I’m just glad to see you made it here alright.” Red Velvet Cookie chuckled, “Yeah, um… Where is here, and… How did you guys make it?” He asked. “My new friend, Schwarzwälder, brought us here,” Licorice Cookie replied. “Who is…?”

“FOR THE LAST TIME!!!” A voice boomed, “My name is not Schwarzwälder! It’s Choco Werehound Brute!” The owner of the voice was a large bipedal Cake with red horns who was angrily stomping in their direction. Red Velvet Cookie hid behind Licorice Cookie ever so slightly. Licorice Cookie however, was unfazed. “That’s your species name, Schwarzwälder. Your brother told me so.” Schwarzwälder rolled his eyes, “What does Esterházy know anyway? I like Choco Werehound Brute better, doesn’t sound as sissy as Schwarzwälder,” the Werehound grumbled. “I think it sounds cool,” Red Velvet Cookie said softly. The Werehound let out a huff.

“Arf! Arf! Arf!”

“Wait…” Red Velvet Cookie said, “Is that?” A tiny Cake Hound came bouncing across the fields of grass. Red Velvet Cookie laughed and ran to it with his arms outstretched. “Hey, little pupcake! You’re okay!” The tiny Cake dove into Red Velvet Cookie’s arms and began bombarding him with puppy kisses. Red Velvet Cookie laughed uncontrollably as his wet tongue tickled his face. “You know that Cake, Red Velvet Cookie?” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked. “Yeah, he’s the one who saved me from the Witch,” Red Velvet replied with a smile. “Wait?” Schwarzwälder said, “Chiffon wasn’t kidding when he said he bit the Witch. I thought he was just makin’ it up!”

“Chiffon?” Red Velvet Cookie echoed. “So that’s your name huh?” Chiffon barked happily in response. “Thank you for saving me, and thanks for taking care of my friends, Schwarzwälder.” The Werehound beamed proudly, “No problem! After all, Cakes and Cookies are friends! Cakes protect Cookies from scary Witch! That’s what my big brother taught me!”

“Schwarzwälder found us and brought us here shortly after we escaped,” Bat-Cat piped up, appearing from inside Licorice Cookie’s hood. “Some other Cakes came by shortly after carrying you on their backs. Chiffon was the only one of them that stayed behind. He’s been really worried about you.” Red Velvet looked down at the Cake Hound in his arms. His bright brown eyes sparkled with joy. His tail wagged rapidly. “I’m glad you’re alright.”

“Hey, Chiffon… Are you sure THIS is the place we were supposed to bring them?” Schwarzwälder asked. Red Velvet Cookie took his first good look at his surroundings. Old buildings were falling in on themselves, roads overgrown with grass and weeds, brambles and sugar stones littered the ground, the torn remains of once colorful flags fluttered weakly in the breeze. “Is this… The Cookie Paradise?” Red Velvet Cookie questioned, raising an eyebrow. “Kinda underwhelming really, almost disappointing,” Licorice Cookie added, joining Red Velvet Cookie. Poison Mushroom Cookie stood on Red Velvet’s other side. “Where are all the other Cookies?”

“Oh, well, about that,” Charlie the Sugar Gnome said. “You three are the first Cookies to grace these lands in a long time. I know it may not look like much now but… Once upon a time, this place was a grand and glorious kingdom! Dippi-da-dee!”

“Wow! That’s so cool! Wait, what’s a kingdom?” Red Velvet Cookie asked.

“No offense… But this place looks like just some sad old ruins to me,” Licorice Cookie said. “I’m with Meowster,” Bat-Cat added. “Well, yes… It may look like old ruins now, but indeed a glorious kingdom once it was. This place was built by the Ancient Cookie Heroes! It was meant to be the fifth and final Cookie Kingdom of Earthbread! Oh, I remember those days. Cookies and Cakes running about, playing, laughing. The Coronation was going to be the biggest party in dessert history!”

“So what happened?” Red Velvet Cookie asked. Charlie the Sugar Gnome sighed, “Oh… Sadly, the Cookie who was meant to rule the kingdom never made it to the throne. Rumor has it she perished in the Dark Flour War. And then monsters started appearing from the forest! We tried to fight them off but we Sugar Gnomes are not warriors, no sir! Doopity-dee! The forest took over, the Cookies left, but we stayed behind and waited. And waited. Aaaaaaannddddd waiiiiiiitttttteeeeed. OH WAITED FOR SO LONG WE HAVE!”

“But now, YOU’RE HERE! And with your help, we can restore this place to its former glory! So you will stay right? Please say yes. PLEASE SAY YES! We’ve been so lonely here all by ourselves, Doopity-doo…” One of the Sugar Gnomes said, throwing himself at Red Velvet Cookie’s feet. “Well…” Red Velvet Cookie said slowly, looking at his friends. Licorice Cookie looked unconvinced and Poison Mushroom Cookie was still upset there weren't any other Cookies to make friends with. “Why not?” The response prompted a “Huh?” from Licorice and Poison Mushroom, and the Sugar Gnomes started dancing and shouting in celebration. “Yippie! They’re staying!” “Doopity-dee-da! Hooray!” “Wait, wait, wait. Red Velvet, are you crazy?” Licorice Cookie said. “Oh, come on, Licy. Think about it, a kingdom of our very own! Wouldn’t that be amazing!?” Licorice Cookie raised an eyebrow, “Really? You’re serious?” He sighed, “Okay, Red Velvet Cookie, one key question. How many Cookies do you see?”

“Um… You, me, and Poison Mushroom Cookie, so… Three!”

“Uh-huh, and do you think just three little Cookies can build an ENTIRE KINGDOM!?”

“I don’t see why not,” Red Velvet replied with a smile. Licorice Cookie sighed again. “Red Velvet Cookie. Do you have any idea what a kingdom even is? Be honest. Do you have even the SLIGHTEST piccadilly notion of what I’m talking about?!”

“It… Is a big job, that’s no lie,” one of the Sugar Gnomes added. “Come on guys, this place is great! We can make it exactly how we want it to be. Like… Licorice Cookie, you can have your own place to practice your magic!” Licorice Cookie looked away in thought. “Hemmm, perhaps.”

“And Poison Mushroom Cookie, just because there aren’t any other Cookies here, doesn’t mean you can’t make new friends!”

“It doesn’t?” The small Cookie said, tilting his head. “Yeah, I mean, we have Chiffon, Schwarzwälder, and the Sugar Gnomes! They’re not Cookies but… They’re our friends, right?” Poison Mushroom Cookie grinned ear to ear. “Oh…. Yeah…. You’re right. Cakes… Cookies… Sugar Gnomes… All new friends, he he he!”

“That’s the spirit!” Red Velvet Cookie said. “I guess it would be… Pretty cool to have a place of our very own,” Licorice Cookie admitted. “OH! OOOOHHHH! That reminds me, boys we must get to work on our new friends' Cookie Houses!” Olaf the Sugar Gnome exclaimed. The other two cheered in agreement. “Wait… A Cookie House?” Red Velvet said. “Correct, my fair Cookie. A place to rest, a home.”

“Home,” Red Velvet Cookie echoed. “We’ve never had one of those before!”

“Can mine have Shroomies?” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked, holding up one of his precious mushrooms. “It can have whatever you like, as long as you stay! We’ll turn his place into a wonderful home for you all, the Cakes as well.” Chiffon barked happily. “Oh, Schwarzwälder can help too, he’s super strong, and I bet that giant hammer of yours is great at breaking up Sugar Stones, Schwarzwälder,” Bat-Cat said flying out of Licorice Cookie’s hood and up to the Werehound. “YOU BET IT IS! Choco Werehound Brute GREAT at smashing things!”

“So it's settled. We’ll build the buildings, the Cakes can help clear out the land for construction,” Davis the Sugar Gnome said. “What can we do?” Red Velvet Cookie asked. “Well….” The conversation was interrupted by strange noises coming from the nearby woods. The Sugar Gnomes panicked and hid behind Schwarzwälder. “Oh no! THEY’RE BACK!” “Oooh, Doopity-doo, protect us, O mighty Millennial Tree!” “Who’s back?” Red Velvet Cookie asked, backing up slightly from the forest edge. “Those monsters! The ones who attacked us and laid the kingdom to ruin all those years ago!” Olaf shouted.

Then, they appeared. Crawling and lumbering out of the forest, dripping, arms outstretched, making guttural gurgling noises. Creatures made of sticky, goopy custard and held together with bandages. Most of them were small, but they were clearly unnatural. The Cookies gasped in horror. “GET BEHIND CHOCO WEREHOUND BRUTE, COOKIES! Cakes protect you!” Schwarzwälder shouted. Chiffon barked and ran off in a different direction. “HEY WHAT THE!? Chiffon! Where are you going? Protect Cookies doesn’t mean retreat!”

“Don’t worry, Schwarzwälder. This isn’t my first fight to the death. Poison Mushroom Cookie, watch my back!” “Okay, Licorice Cookie!” Licorice Cookie summoned his bone scythe, he rushed towards the monsters and slashed through them as he ran past them. They exploded and sent sticky cream flying everywhere. Licorice Cookie jumped out of the way of the spray and landed on his feet. Placing his hand to the ground to balance himself as he slid, the other hand held his scythe high above his head. More creatures advanced, and he blasted them away with shocks of Dark Magic. “Way to go, Licorice Cookie!” Red Velvet cheered. “Woah, not bad for a little Cookie,” Schwarzwälder remarked, clearly impressed. “They just keep coming!” Olaf shouted. “Oh, I can’t watch,” Charlie said, covering his eyes.

The creatures were closing in on him now, he could only focus on one side, they grew close from behind as Licorice fought the ones in front of him. Poison Mushroom Cookie jumped between the creatures and his best friend. “Hey, Monsters! Have a Shroomy!” He shouted, tossing one of his Shroomies, which exploded upon impact. Sending a cloud of poisonous spores into the air and covering the creatures. Their psychedelic poison quickly took effect, causing the creatures to teeter and crash into each other. Causing them to explode. “I… I think they’re actually doing it!” Davis the Sugar Gnome said. “I… Think…” Licorice Cookie said as he sliced the last creature in half. “That’s the last of them.”

“Um… I wouldn’t be so, s-s-s-sure…” Olaf said, pointing. Licorice Cookie suddenly felt a shadow fall over him. He slowly turned around, and his breath caught in his throat as he realized a giant version of the creature was standing over him, it had three lopsided eyes and a large gaping mouth. It was twice a Cookie’s size and staring right at them. “Um… S-Shroomy?” Poison Mushroom Cookie said slowly, holding out one of his mushrooms weakly. The creature roared. “RETREAT!!!!” Licorice Cookie shouted, scooping up Poison Mushroom Cookie and running the other direction while yelling his lungs out. The monster gave chase. “RUN!!!” The Sugar Gnomes shouted. “HEY! You leave my Cookie friends alone!” Schwarzwälder shouted, rushing the creature with his hammer. The two were quickly locked in a stalemate, as the creature grabbed onto the head of his hammer. The creature growled and bit down on the handle of the hammer. Schwarzwälder was clearly struggling to keep the monster at bay. Red Velvet Cookie was the only one who hadn’t fled the scene yet. “Red Velvet Cookie run! Choco Werehound Brute will take care of this!”

“But… But…” Watching Schwarzwälder getting pushed back by the Custard creature ignited a fire in his stomach. “No.”

“WHAT?”

“I. Said. NO! I’m not going to run anymore. I’ve done nothing but run and hide my entire life and I’m sick of it!” Red Velvet Cookie shouted with tears in his eyes. “Even back in the basement I always relied on my friends for protection, well… Not anymore. I’m… I’m gonna fight too! I wanna help!”

“How do you plan to do that, Red?” Schwarzwälder shouted. He suddenly screamed in pain as the creature bit down into his arm. “Schwarzwälder!”

“Arf! Arf! Arf!”

Red Velvet Cookie turned to see Chiffon running towards them with something in his mouth. It was the knife he had retrieved from the Witch’s house. The knife. I can use it as a sword! “Chiffon! Over here boy!” He shouted. Chiffon ran to Red Velvet’s side, and he grabbed the sword from his mouth. He was still learning how to properly grip with his new hand, so he held the sword in his Cookie hand. He rushed the creature, Chiffon ran by his side barking loudly. Schwarzwälder had been pushed to the ground at his point. The monster seemed determined to take a chunk out of his dough. It didn’t notice the tiny Cookie until it was too late. Red Velvet slashed at the monster’s midsection and it recoiled and roared in pain. Foul sticky cream oozed from the wound, but it wasn’t enough to take it down. The injury only aggravated the creature further. The monster turned to the Cookie with fire in all three of its eyes. Red Velvet was stumbling and struggling to recover from his swing.

He’d never been in a proper fight before in his life. So he knew nothing about how he was supposed to stand or swing. And the weight of both his new arm and the sword in his other hand was difficult to balance. Schwarzwälder realized the monster had turned its attention to the faltering Cookie. He couldn’t swing his hammer properly from his position on the ground, so he lifted his hind legs and delivered a swift kick to the monster’s jaw while it was distracted. It stumbled back and roared in pain. It turned back to the Werehound. Good. It seemed to only be able to focus on one enemy at a time. And whoever aggravated it worse was more likely to be its target. Schwarzwälder rushed the creature, but before he could swing his hammer again, Red Velvet recovered and slashed the creature again. But he stumbled during his swing and lost grip of his sword. Creating a surface level wound and causing the monster to turn back to him.

Red Velvet felt the wind get knocked out of him as the monster delivered a powerful slap that sent the Cookie hurling through the air and knocking him to the ground. The next thing Red Velvet knew, a shadow had fallen over him and his arms were pinned to the ground as the creature’s gaping maw drew closer and closer to the helpless Cookie. Red Velvet struggled to free himself but the monster’s arms had his frozen in place. His mind swam in panic. Not again. Not again! NOT AGAIN!

But before the creature could take a bite out of the Cookie, Chiffon rushed to his friend’s rescue. The tiny Cake Hound barked loudly and bit down on the creature’s leg. It only hurt the monster a little, but it was enough to get his attention on Chiffon and off of Red Velvet Cookie. The monster made the mistake of lifting his arm off of Red Velvet Cookie’s Cake arm. And Red Velvet reacted in the only way he could. He’d planned on punching the creature, but some strange instinct took over, and his new fingers curled into a claw as he swung. He slashed the monster’s face with strength he didn’t even know he had. Strength he didn’t even know a Cookie could possess. Sticky custard cream rained down on Red Velvet Cookie as he cut three deep gashes in the monster’s face. Taking out one of its eyes in the process. It roared in pain and stumbled back.

Schwarzwälder had finally recovered and took the opportunity to rush the creature. He charged on all fours with his head down. Colliding with the creature's midsection and digging his horns into its creamy body. It roared in pain as Schwarzwälder reared back on his hind legs and twisted. Slamming the Custard Orge down to the ground. He quickly pulled out his hammer and dealt the finishing blow to the Orge’s head. Its body dissolved into a puddle of light yellow goo and wet bandages. The Werehound finally allowed himself to breathe. Panting heavily, he looked over at Red Velvet, who was struggling to get to his feet. Not because he was injured, but because Chiffon kept knocking him down as he leapt onto his face to lick off the custard cream.

“HA HA HA HAHA! C-Chiffon! Stop! Down boy, down!” Red Velvet Cookie laughed. Schwarzwälder walked up to the duo. “Not bad, kid. But if you’re gonna fight, you’re gonna have to learn to do it right,” the Werehound grunted. “Y-yeah… I guess you’re right,” Red Velvet said sheepishly. He’d finally given up trying to get Chiffon to stop and let him drown him with puppy kisses.

“THAT WAS AMAZING!”

Red Velvet looked up to see the Sugar Gnomes, Poison Mushroom Cookie, and Licorice Cookie hiding in a nearby tree. Licorice was clinging to one of the branches and the Sugar Gnomes were climbing down. Charlie the Sugar Gnome hit the ground first and ran up to the Cakes and Cake-Cookie hybrid. “That was the most amazing display of combat skill I’ve ever seen! You are all truly great and brave warriors! Doopity-dee!”

“Yeah, you ripped that beast to pieces, Red Velvet Cookie!” Olaf added.

“You know what?” Red Velvet said, looking down at his new Cake arm. He curled his hand into a claw and swiped the air a few times. “I could get used to this! This new arm is awesome! I feel stronger than I’ve ever felt in my entire life! I could fight a hundred of those things!”

“So glad to hear you say that… Because um… There’s a lot more of them in the forest surrounding the kingdom,” Davis the Sugar Gnome shuddered. “Do you brave Cookies think you can clear them out? Once the woodlands are safe for us Sugar Gnomes to enter, we can clear away the foliage and expand!” Red Velvet Cookie smiled. “Yeah! We can totally do that! Right, guys?” He asked his friends who were climbing down from the tree. (Well Poison Mushroom Cookie climbed down, Licorice Cookie fell and hit the ground with an “Oomph!”) “Yeah… No problem…” Licorice Cookie said, rubbing his sore side where he fell. “Choco Werehound Brute will come too!” Schwarzwälder exclaimed. “I can help too!” Bat-Cat pipped up. “I’d like to dig my claws into one of those creatures for hurting my Meowster!” he hissed.

“It won’t be easy,” warned Davis. “Don’t worry. Between Licorice Cookie’s magic, Poison Mushroom Cookie’s Shroomies, and my two weapons they won’t stand a chance!” Red Velvet Cookie cheered. “Two?” Schwarzwälder asked, raising an eyebrow. “Yeah, my new Cake arm and this!” Red Velvet Cookie shouted, swinging his sword around. Unfortunately he swung it into a nearby rotting tree and couldn’t get it free. “Um… It’s stuck…” He said sheepishly.

The group’s laughter could be heard ringing throughout the forest.

Chapter Text

“Red Velvet Cookie, on your left!”

“I see ‘em, Licy!” Red Velvet shouted, slashing a small monster that had dived to attack him. It let out a guttural screech as it was torn in half, and exploded into a puddle of custard. Licorice Cookie blasted back a small group of Custard monsters with his magic. It took a few shots as he was trying to be sparing with his magic, if he ran out of Mana it would take a while for it to recover. He was so focused on the ones in front of him that he didn’t notice the one in the tree above him. It jumped to attack him, but never hit its target. Bat-Cat collided with the creature in mid-air. The winged feline bit down into the creature’s neck, hard. It screeched in pain as Bat-Cat twisted, tossing the monster into a tree, it exploded upon impact. Schwarzwälder was impressed, “Not bad for an itty-bitty kitty.” Bat-Cat beamed proudly. “These guys are easy. I’ve fought rats 20 times my size before.”

“Hey Red Velvet, how many have you got?” Licorice Cookie asked, slashing through another monster. “About 15, you?” Red Velvet replied. “I’m ahead by two, try to keep up!” Licorice Cookie laughed. Some of the smaller monsters started to retreat rather than fight. “We did it!” Poison Mushroom Cookie cheered. “Wait a second…” Bat-Cat said, his ears perking up. The trio of Cookies knew that was a sign to stay alert. Bat-Cat had supersonic hearing after all, even the quietest of enemies couldn’t sneak up on them. It didn’t take long for the sound to reach the Cookies' ears as well. The thundering stomps of a Custard Orge. Schwarzwälder drew his hammer, Red Velvet curled his Cake hand into a claw, and Licorice gathered his magic as the creature lumbered into view. Its three lopsided eyes staring down at the Cookies.

“Okay, here’s the game plan. I’ll flank left, Red Velvet you flank right, Bat-Cat you go for the eyes while Schwarzwälder…” Licorice Cookie was interrupted by the monster letting out a loud roar. Poison Mushroom Cookie jumped in front of Licorice and shouted, “Hey monster, have a Shroomy!” and tossed a mushroom into the creature’s mouth. It had no choice but to swallow. The monster froze and a few seconds later the mushroom exploded inside the creature. Causing sticky cream to splatter onto the small band of desserts. They all stood there silently for a moment, dripping Custard ooze before Licorice deadpanned, “Or… that… That works too. Why didn't you do that earlier with the first one!?” He shouted at the fungus flavored Cookie. “I tried, it didn’t take the Shroomy!” Poison Mushroom Cookie replied defensively.

“NAYYYAA! Great! Now I’m covered in monster guts! It’ll take meow forever to groom this off…” Bat-Cat sighed. He tried to take flight but he discovered one of his wings was stuck in the goop and pinned to the side of his body. His feet were frozen in place as well. “NAYYA! Meowster! Help! I… I can’t move!” Licorice Cookie realized his foot was stuck in a puddle of the cream as well, and his hand was stuck to his scythe. Poison Mushroom Cookie tried to wipe the cream off but only ended up getting himself more stuck and tangled up in the process. Schwarzwälder and Chiffon, on the other hand, didn’t seem bothered by the mess at all. Schwarzwälder shook it off his fur easily. And Chiffon ran over to Bat-Cat and started licking the Custard Cream off him. “Ahhh! Chiffon! NO! STOP THAT! EW!”

Red Velvet looked down at his own Custard covered clothes. He realized when he stuck his Cookie arm into the cream it became immobilized. But when he used his Cake arm, it slid right off. “Hey guys, I think this stuff affects Cookies but not Cakes. Look,” he said, demonstrating how he could easily clean his hair of Custard Cream by running his Cake hand through it. Chiffon had finished licking Bat-Cat off, leaving the flying feline disgruntled and fur ruffled, but clean of Custard Cream. Further proving Red Velvet Cookie’s theory. Licorice Cookie cried out in shock when Schwarzwälder suddenly licked his side. “This stuff’s pretty tasty too!” The Brute exclaimed. “Schwarzwälder, ew…” Licorice sighed, “But I guess if that’s the only way…”

“I’m gonna scout out up ahead to see if there’s any more monsters. Chiffon. Schwarzwälder. See if you two can get Licorice and Poison Mushroom unstuck, ok?” Red Velvet Cookie laughed. “Okie dokie!” Schwarzwälder replied. Licorice Cookie groaned loudly as Schwarzwälder licked his hair free of sticky cream. Red Velvet set off deeper into the woods. Following the overgrown path to the best of his abilities. His sword and Crimson Hand made quick work of any thorn bushes or overgrown vines that stood in his path. Cutting back the brambles with ease. He didn’t encounter any more monsters during his journey, so he concluded that this area was now clear and belonged to their kingdom once more. The little Cookie couldn’t help but puff his chest out a bit in pride for the job well done he and his friends had accomplished.

Building a kingdom. It was a big job and slow going that was for sure, but he couldn’t help but be proud that he’d played his part. He felt like he was a part of something big. Something more important than he’d ever been a part of in his entire life. His new arm and abilities made him feel powerful, as if he had a say in his destiny. Before, all he could do was run or hide. Before he felt helpless and afraid all the time. But now, he learned an emotion other than fear. His goal was no longer to survive, but to thrive. He felt so helpless when he lost his arm… Now, he felt as if he could take on any foe. Swinging his sword over his shoulder and humming happily to himself, he allowed himself to truly relax for the first time in his life. He smiled as he listened to the wind blow through the trees, he sighed contentedly as he breathed the fresh air, air that did not carry the scent of decay or mildew, unlike the musty atmosphere of the basement. He admired the colors and smell of the small wildflowers that grew on either side of the path, and then… Something caught his eye. Something new and unfamiliar to the Cake-Cookie hybrid.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Red Velvet Cookie, where are you?” Licorice Cookie called. “Are you sure this is the way he went?” He said, turning to Schwarzwälder. The Werehound stuck his nose in the air and sniffed. “Yup! I can smell him this way!” He replied, picking up the pace a bit. Bat-Cat tilted his ears in all directions. “Hemmm… I believe Schwarzwälder is right, Meowster. I can hear footsteps this way. About Cookie sized.” “Well, if Schwarzwälder’s super smell and your super hearing both conclude that we're going the right way then that must be the case,” Licorice Cookie reasoned. Poison Mushroom Cookie suddenly ran up ahead. “Ah! Poison Mushroom Cookie! Wait up!” Licorice Cookie shouted, running after the tiny Cookie.

It didn’t take long to catch up to him, as the pathway had been cleared by Red Velvet earlier. He soon caught sight of the small Cookie’s red mushroom cap. He was about to scold him for running off without warning, when he noticed what he was staring at. Red Velvet Cookie was tearing vines and brambles off of a strange structure. A Cookie sized building made of roll cake wood. There was a Cookie sized table in the center, tools that would fit perfectly in a Cookie’s hand laying across the counter, and even a small oven in the wall. “Well, wouldja look at that. Looks like Red Velvet Cookie found the old Smithy!” Schwarzwälder said, joining the two Cookies. “Who’s Smithy?” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked. “A Smithy’s not a who, it's a what!” Schwarzwälder replied. “It’s a building where Cookies make tools for building new buildings and tearing down old stuff. The Cookies in the Old Village near the Witch’s house had one.”

“Tools for building things?” Red Velvet Cookie said, turning to face his friends. “That’s perfect! We can use this place to make some tools for the Sugar Gnomes!” Chiffon barked happily in agreement. “Uh… I dunno, Red Velvet Cookie…” Poison Mushroom Cookie said. “This place doesn’t look…” A piece of the roof fell off the rotting wood of the building. “Safe,” Poison Mushroom Cookie concluded. “It does look a little run down,” Licorice Cookie added. “Well,” Red Velvet Cookie said with a shrug, “Maybe we can make some tools to build a new Smithy back in the kingdom. Now… How do you make a tool?” He mumbled looking around at the piles of worm-eaten wood and half-melted sugar cubes. Licorice Cookie sighed, “Red Velvet Cookie, how do you plan to make anything if you don’t even know WHAT you're making?”

Chiffon started barking and jumping up and down near a set of drawers. “What is it boy?” Red Velvet Cookie asked, coming to calm the excited Pupcake. Chiffon barked, and pointed his nose to the top drawer. Red Velvet Cookie had a feeling Chiffon was trying to tell him something, so he opened the drawer the Cake Hound had pointed too. Inside were several pieces of cardstock with writing and a picture in the top left corner. Upon closer inspection he realized what they were and smiled. “Hey guys! Chiffon found instructions on how to make different tools!” He said, waving the cards over his head. “Really? Let me see!” Licorice Cookie said running up to the Smithy, Poison Mushroom followed fatefully after. “Well I’ll be… That’s exactly what this is. It’s even step-by-step with diagrams. Huh, these make it look so easy even a child could do it,” Licorice Cookie said with a smile. “Can we make something, Licorice Cookie!?” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked excitedly. “Well I don’t see why not, let’s start with… This one, the Sturdy Axe. Uses include cutting down trees and chopping up roll cake logs.”

“That sounds like it would come in handy,” Red Velvet Cookie added. “And it doesn’t take a lot to make, Red Velvet you get the fire going while Poison Mushroom Cookie and I gather the materials,” Licorice Cookie said.

If one had been listening in on the next few minutes it would have sounded something like this.

“No, don't use those logs, Red Velvet, they’re rotted.”

“Can we use Shroomies?”

“The instructions don’t call for Shroomies, Poison Mushroom Cookie…”

“Choco Werehound Brute and Bat-Cat found new wood!”

“Great job guys, place it here, Chiffon can you help me carry this?”

“Bark, bark, bark!”

“I think this part goes here, no… wait… I’m reading it wrong.”

“Do you sharpen the sugar blade before or after you attach it?”

“No, that’s step 5, Poison Mushroom Cookie, we’re on step 3.”

“Oh wow, this part is a lot heavier than I thought it’d be.”

“I think we’re supposed to cut a hole here?”

“Aaaaaannnnnndddd. Done!” Red Velvet Cookie said triumphantly as he slid the Axe head onto the handle. “Wow, it looks just like the picture!” Poison Mushroom Cookie said, holding up the instruction card. “See, easy peasy pudding in the freezie,” Licorice Cookie said with a proud smile. “That was actually quite fun,” Bat-Cat said, flying down to rest on Licorice Cookie’s shoulder. “We’ve never made anything ourselves before. What else can we do?” Licorice had started flipping through the cards when a creaking sound made him stop. All members of the party looked up to see one of the posts cracking and leaning over a little too much for comfort. Licorice Cookie looked up at the roof above them. “Uh… Guys… What do you say we take these cards back and… Have the Sugar Gnomes build us a more… stable Smithy?” The others nodded in agreement. “Um-hum,” “Yeah,” “I’m with you.” The desserts returned back the way they came. Red Velvet Cookie proudly swinging their homemade Axe in his Cake hand. A few seconds later, they heard the sound of a crash as if a building had toppled over. They all looked at one another in silence, except for the sigh of relief they all seemed to exhale at once.

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“Hey guys! We’re back!” Red Velvet Cookie called as they stepped into the bright sunny clearing of the kingdom. “Good news, that area of the woods is now cleared for construction!” Licorice Cookie called. “And speaking of construction we…” Red Velvet began before he heard a sound that made him pause. A voice he didn’t recognize.

“You are so infuriating!”

It was too high pitched to be a Sugar Gnome, and when they caught sight of the owner of the voice Poison Mushroom Cookie gasped in delight. “Are those… Cookies?” Indeed, two Cookies appeared from the forest. One was a short Cookie with purple hair and glasses, she held a small book in one hand and was dragging another Cookie along the ground with the other. The taller Cookie didn’t seem to mind a bit. He was lazily smiling at her and sipping from a small glass. “You’re so meeeeaaann. I’m tired. We’ve been running forever!” The female Cookie stopped and dropped the other one. “We? There’s no we, Vampire Cookie! I’ve been the one running, I practically carried you out of the oven!” The red haired Cookie on the ground looked up at her, never losing his smile. “Actually it was quite nice and warm in the oven.” The other one groaned loudly and ran her hand down her face. “NEVERMIND! Where are we anyway?”

“Hey!”

“Huh?” The purple haired Cookie said, looking down to see a small red Mushroom Cookie with big eyes smiling at her. “Hi new friends, welcome to the kingdom!” he giggled. “Kingdom?” the purple haired Cookie replied, adjusting her glasses and looking around her in slight disbelief. “Well it’s going to be a kingdom, we’re restoring it. My name is Red Velvet Cookie, this is Licorice Cookie and…” Red Velvet was cut off by the Cookie gasping loudly and running up to him. “Oh my stars! A Cookie with a Cake arm! That is so fascinating! I didn’t think Cookie and Cake batter was compatible that way! Are there other Cake-Cookies like you? Or would you be a Cookie-Cake. I’m gonna say Cake-Cookie cause you appear to be 20% Cake and 80% Cookie… But I’d have to do a full analysis to make sure,” she said, getting a little too close for Red Velvet Cookie’s comfort. “Hey sis, you’re weirding them out. This is why you don't have any friends you know.” The purple haired Cookie turned to him with a scowl. She quickly regained her composure, cleared her throat and readjusted her glasses. “I’m Alchemist Cookie, and THAT would be my deadbeat brother, Vampire Cookie.”

“You know what your problem is, sis? You have no chill. Now take this guy,” Vampire Cookie said, smiling at Poison Mushroom Cookie, who was standing over him and waving hello. “Hi new friend.”

“This guy’s got chill. I like him.” Poison Mushroom Cookie beamed. “Hear that, Licorice Cookie! I have chill.”

“What’s chill?” Licorice Cookie asked. Alchemist Cookie scoffed, “It means he likes to be LAZY!”

“See what I mean,” Vampire Cookie slurred, “No chill at all. Always yelling or nagging. Doesn’t know how to slow down and enjoy life.” Alchemist Cookie blushed with embarrassment slightly as she realized she’d fallen right into her brother’s trap. She quickly collected herself and tried to save what dignity she had left. “So…" Licorice Cookie said, “An Alchemist huh? Well no shame in that. Not everyone can master a feat as great as magical talent.” Alchemist Cookie turned to him with her jaw open. “Excuse me?” She sighed loudly. “Don’t tell me he’s a Wizard.” “One of the best!” Bat-Cat cheered from his perch on his Master’s shoulder. “Licorice Cookie is a self-taught Dark Wizard. He’s fought rat hoards and all sorts of monsters!” “Aw go on,” Licorice Cookie chuckled, waving his hand. “No really go on, I wanna hear more.”

Alchemist Cookie groaned and rolled her eyes. “Of course, just like all wizards he’s cocky and self-absorbed just because he knows how to do a few parlor tricks.” Licorice Cookie turned to her with a gleam in his eye. “Oh and your little science experiments are so special? ANYONE can mix this thing and that thing and get these things. Magic on the other hand, takes diligent practice, it's not for everyone. Alchemy is for wannabe magicians and wizards who can’t handle the self-discipline magic requires. How many times have you blown yourself up doing your little wanna be magic?” He scoffed with a smirk. “Like 16 times!” Vampire Cookie shouted. “SHUT UP, VAMPIRE COOKIE!” Alchemist Cookie shouted at her brother.

“Alchemy is a respected science!”

“Magic is a refined art form!”

“Alchemy is practically what the Witches used to create our very dough!”

“Dough that was lifeless until the Witches added magical life powder!”

“Ok, ok, guys. That’s enough! No need to fight,” Red Velvet Cookie said, stepping between the two. “We’re all Cookies so we should all be friends, we don’t have to like the same things to get along. Having different abilities and flavors is what makes us special.” The two just huffed and crossed their arms over their chests. “Yeah, and can you two stop yelling? I have this splitting headache…” Vampire groaned. “Well, that’s what you get for overindulging on Grape Juice,” Alchemist Cookie replied. “Uh…. Sis… Think you can do your big brother a solid and carry me somewhere quiet? I don’t feel so good.” Alchemist Cookie rolled her eyes. “No, I’ve carried you the whole way here. If anyone should be exhausted it’s me.”

“I really don’t feel good…”

“It’s called a hangover, big brother. Deal with it.”

Vampire Cookie responded by upchucking the contents of his stomach onto the ground in front of him and then laying his face down in the pile of his own vomit. Alchemist Cookie could feel her face turning red. She looked at the other three Cookies who were, of course, giving her brother that look. The look of confusion, pity, concern, at least the disapproval wasn’t there this time. “Did I say I was related to him? I’m not, I’ve never seen this Cookie before in my life,” Alchemist Cookie said in a desperate attempt to regain some of her self respect. “You’re so meeeeeeeeaaaaaaaan!” Vampire slurred as he lifted his face from the puddle of throw up.

“Um…. Here. Let me help,” Red Velvet Cookie said. “No, don’t! I’m warning you, show him the tiniest bit of kindness and he’ll suck you dry. He’s a moocher.” Alchemist Cookie warned. “And you’re a stuck up stick in the mud,” Vampire quipped. “What did you just call me?” She shouted. Red Velvet ignored the siblings' banter and gently placed his Cake arm under Vampire’s stomach. He wasn’t sure if it was because his Cake arm was so strong or because Vampire was surprisingly light, but he found him easy to lift. “Thanks man, just lay me somewhere shady will ya? The sun is way too bright here,” Vampire said, lifting his hand to his face to shield his eyes. “Y’all got somewhere quiet a guy can sleep?”

“We certainly doopity-doo!” Charlie the Sugar Gnome said, walking up to the group. “If you need a place to rest you can look no farther than the Tree of Wishes! Cookies always used that spot as a hangout back in the kingdom’s heyday!” “What’s a Tree of Wishes?” Red Velvet Cookie asked. “It’s a special tree near the castle where the Blueberry Birds make their home. If you write a wish and hang it on one of its branches it will come true! Doopity-doo!” “A tree that grants wishes? That doesn’t sound very scientific,” Alchemist Cookie remarked. “Well it's not the tree so much as the Blueberry birds. But I’m afraid they’ve all left, see they only nest in places of peace and happiness and well… After the war they kinda… Um… So the Tree of Wishes is more of a… Tree That’s a Really Good Spot to Take a Nap, now.”

“That’s all I’d wish for right now,” groaned Vampire Cookie. “I’ll show you the way, follow me! Doopity-dee!” The Sugar Gnome and the Cookies set off to the Tree of Wishes. Licorice and Alchemist arguing all the while. Red Velvet gasped in awe when he saw the large beautiful tree with its blue leaves spreading out in all directions. Some branches were low enough that a Cookie could easily climb onto them, others reached to the sky ending with a bouquet of beautiful blue leaves. “This is the Tree of Wishes!” Charlie exclaimed. “It’s beautiful,” Red Velvet Cookie breathed. “It's so big!” Poison Mushroom Cookie cheered. “It appears to be a type of Blue Atlas Cedar if I’m not mistaken,” Alchemist Cookie commented, “Fully matured. Someone has taken very good care of it over the years.” “That would be us!” Davis the Sugar Gnome said proudly walking up to the group. “We just couldn’t allow this place to be overgrown or unkept. Why, next to the Fountain and the Castle, this Tree was the Kingdom’s pride and joy! Doopity-doo!” Olaf the Sugar Gnome added. Charlie sighed, “It was the only thing we managed to keep together. The Fountain of Abundance has run dry and the Castle is crumbling in on itself.” “Now, Charlie, don’t think like that, remember you’ll melt!” Olaf exclaimed. Charlie wiped a tear from his eye, “I know, I know… It’s just so sad is all.”

“You mean you three have been taking care of this place all by yourselves?” Alchemist Cookie asked. Charlie nodded. “Yes, we Sugar Gnomes are the Kingdom’s Caretakers, it is our duty to keep the kingdom spick and span. Um… Although… It’s been hard as of late with nobody else around but… Now that you’re here we can finally turn this place into a happy home!”

Tweet! Tweet! Tweet! Tweet!

Charlie gasped, “Olaf… Did you hear that?”

Chirp! Chirp! Chirp!

“Why, Davis, look!” Olaf shouted, grabbing the other Sugar Gnome’s arm and pointing into the tree. A small round, blue bird sat on a low hanging branch. Watching the group with a curious look in its eye. “Wow, a birdy!” Poison Mushroom Cookie said. “That’s not just any birdy, Poison Mushroom Cookie. That’s a Blueberry Bird! Oh and look! There’s another, a-and another over there!” Olaf shouted. “I think I can see one building a nest deeper in the tree. What a fascinating sight! I’ve read about them in books but I’ve never been able to observe birds in their natural habitat!” Licorice Cookie exclaimed. “Me neither!” Alchemist Cookie laughed. “Oh, this is so wonderful! The Blueberry Birds have returned! Oh, the Wish Scripts, where are the Wish Scripts?” Olaf said, running around the tree. “Over here, Olaf!” Davis said, pulling a small wooden box from behind the root of the tree. “Oh ho ho, marvelous! Cookies, over here! Come. Quickly, quickly, quickly!” The Sugar Gnomes’ excitement was starting to spread throughout the group. Red Velvet watched as Charlie opened the lid of the box and pulled out a small envelope with a ribbon at the top.

“Now, all you need to do is write down a wish, any wish at all and the Blueberry Birds will grant it!” he cheered. “Birds that grant wishes? I still say that’s not very…” Alchemist Cookie was interrupted by her brother chanting “Fuddy duddy stick in the mud,” in a sing-songy voice. “Come on, Alchemist Cookie, don’t you wanna at least give it a try?” Red Velvet Cookie asked. She sighed. “Oh all right, but for experimental purposes only!” She said adjusting her glasses. “Good, good, now here’s one for Licorice Cookie, Poison Mushroom. Here’s a quill. Now just write down whatever your heart desires, tie the Wish Script to a branch on the Tree and the Blueberry Birds will do the rest!” Alchemist Cookie thought for a moment before scribbling something down on her sheet. Licorice Cookie wrote one word and then slipped his script into the envelope. “How do you spell ‘friends’?” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked. Red Velvet looked down at Chiffon, then back at his piece of paper, he twirled the quill in his hand, looked back at the paper, up at his friends, back down at the paper again.

“Um… Red Velvet Cookie… What are you going to wish for?” Poison Mushroom asked. “That's just it. I don’t know. I’ve already got everything I could possibly want! Freedom! And a home where all my friends are safe.” Chiffon barked happily in response. Red Velvet watched as Licorice Cookie helped Alchemist tie her wish to a branch. (She was too short to reach it. And she didn’t seem happy about needing help from the Wizard.) He looked down at his paper once before deciding to place it in his pocket. “Maybe I’ll think of something later.” Three Blueberry Birds flew down and undid the knots of the Wish Scripts. Once untied, they flew off with the pieces of paper in their beaks. “Looks like they’re off to grant your wishes. Don’t worry they’ll be back soon, they’re very fast flyers,” Olaf said. “If that bird actually manages to get me what I asked for, I’ll eat my own hat,” Alchemist Cookie laughed. “What did you wish for?” Licorice Cookie asked. Alchemist scoffed, “I can’t tell you otherwise it won’t come true. That’s how it works isn’t it?” “I… Don’t think in this case,” Licorice mumbled.

The two were interrupted by a chirp. “Huh… No way. It’s back already?” Alchemist Cookie said in disbelief. “Like I said, really fast flyers,” Olaf said with a smile. The Blueberry Bird was carrying a pink box with a light purple ribbon. It dropped the box in front of Licorice Cookie and hopped to the side. Looking at him with an expectant eye as if waiting to see his reaction. “Oh how cute, they even gift wrap it,” Bat-Cat chuckled. Licorice Cookie bent down and picked up the box. He didn’t actually expect the tiny bird to return with anything; the look on Alchemist Cookie’s face said she was thinking the same thing. He slowly undid the ribbon and opened the lid. “WOAH! Check this out!” He said, pulling out a large blue jelly from the box. Red Velvet and Poison Mushroom gasped. “That’s the biggest jelly I’ve ever seen in my entire life!” Red Velvet shouted. “There’s a whole box full of these things!” Licorice Cookie shouted. He looked down at the tiny bird, “You guys really are wish granters!” The Blueberry Bird chirped happily in response before flying back to the tree. “Oh man,” Licorice Cookie said as he bit into the jelly, “This is delicious! Super juicy too!” “Hey I want one!” Poison Mushroom Cookie said jumping up and down. “I’m quite famished too, Meowster,” Bat-Cat groaned, lowering his ears to try to make himself look pitiful.

“You wished for Jelly Beans?” Alchemist Cookie asked. “Actually I wished for food. I’ve been fighting monsters all day, I’m starving!” Licorice Cookie said, taking a bite out of a Jellybean. “Ooh, save one or two Licorice Cookie, we can plant it and grow a whole Jellybean Orchard!” Charlie said. Licorice Cookie nodded and set aside a couple of Jellybeans. Another chirp rang through the sky, and a Blueberry Bird appeared with a box identical to the first in its beak. It dropped the box in front of Alchemist Cookie and hopped aside. Alchemist looked at the box and slowly picked it up. Could that little bird actually have gotten her what she needed? She opened the box and to her surprised delight found a large fuzzy root inside. “A Barbacenia tomentosa root! How did you ever find this?” She said to the tiny bird, who seemed to puff out its chest in pride. “A what?” Licorice Cookie said. “The missing ingredient for my rock melting potion. I’ve been looking for one of these forever! How on Earthbread did they know where to find this? And… Where do the boxes come from?” She said, looking at the box in her hands with a raised eyebrow. Charlie shrugged, “Some things we may never know.”

One of the Blueberry Birds flew down and landed on Poison Mushroom Cookie’s shoulder. She started chirping and hopping up and down. “Oh… Hello little friend,” He said, smiling at the bird. “I think she wants you to follow her, Poison Mushroom Cookie. I think she’s trying to grant your wish,” Charlie said. Poison Mushroom Cookie grinned from ear to ear and ran after the tiny bird as it flew off. “What did he wish for?” Alchemist Cookie asked. Licorice Cookie picked up Poison Mushroom Cookie’s discarded Wish Script. “New Cookie friends,” he read aloud. Alchemist Cookie looked over Licorice’s shoulder at the piece of paper. “He misspelled Cookie,” she remarked. “Yes I know. Poison Mushroom’s not exactly the crispest crumb in the breadbox but he means well.”

“If you little fellows are so good at granting wishes, then perhaps you can help me find my missing employer.” A voice no one recognized said. Red Velvet looked up to see a Cookie with dark purple hair in a maid’s outfit gently holding one of the Blueberry Birds in her hand and smiling at the tiny creature. “Oh wow, I didn’t even hear her walk up,” Red Velvet said, going over to greet the Cookie. “Hi, I’m Red Velvet Cookie, welcome to our kingdom!” The Cookie smiled in response. “Pleased to make your acquaintance, I’m Blackberry Cookie, fateful servant of the Archaeology family. My employer, Adventurer Cookie came this way and… As of yet I am still unable to find him. I’m concerned for his well being as he always gets himself into trouble. You haven’t seen him by any chance have you?” Red Velvet looked around, Alchemist and Licorice had gotten into another fight about the supremacy of Alchemy vs Magic, and Poison Mushroom Cookie was already gone. Looks like he was the only one available to help. “Well, we haven’t seen anyone new besides you, Alchemist, and her brother. But I’d be happy to help you look for him, right Chiffon?”

The Cake Hound barked and wagged his tail in response. “A helping hand would be much appreciated. Cakes have been known for their excellent tracking skills, one second,” Blackberry Cookie said, digging into her pockets and pulling out a small piece of orange fabric, “This carries his scent. Do you think you can use it to find him?” She asked Chiffon. Chiffon barked and ran up to her as she bent down to let Chiffon get a good whiff of the fabric. Chiffon stuck his nose up in the air and sniffed several times running about, suddenly he barked loudly and ran off in one direction. “I think he’s picked up a scent!” Red Velvet exclaimed. “Good. Let us make haste,” Blackberry Cookie said following after the tiny Cake Hound.

Chapter Text

Chiffon led them into a section of the forest Red Velvet didn’t recognize. He drew his sword and curled his Cake Hand into a claw in case any monsters tried to ambush them. Blackberry Cookie pulled out a small candle and lit it to make up for the loss of sunlight from the overgrown canopy of trees overhead.

“I beg your pardon, I don’t mean this question to pry but… How did that happen?” She said, looking at his Cake arm. Red Velvet Cookie shrugged his Cake arm, “I know it sounds crazy, but I just woke up with it like that. I lost the old one to the Witch when my friends and I escaped.” He was worried she wouldn’t believe him but it looked like she did. She seemed more interested and slightly impressed than anything. “I was not an Ovenbaked Cookie, so I’ve only heard tales of the Witches. Are they really as terrifying as they sound?” Red Velvet Cookie nodded. “Yeah, whatever you think they are. It’s a million times worse. I never want to go through anything like that again,” he said softly. “You won’t need to worry. The Ancient Heroes drove the Witches out of Earthbread a long time ago with the Great Cookie Revolution,” Blackberry replied. “I keep hearing about these ‘Ancient Heroes’, who are they?” Red Velvet asked. “The five Ancient Cookie Heroes were the protectors and rulers of the four great Cookie Kingdoms. They wielded the Light of Unity, a powerful magic that no Cookie has ever been able to use before nor since. That magic is what created the barrier between our world and the Witches’, once a Cookie crosses the border the Witches will never be able to reach them.”

Red Velvet Cookie smiled. “So me and my friends are definitely safe from her then. Phew, that's a relief. But I can’t believe these Cookies actually fought against the Witches and won! That’s amazing!” Blackberry Cookie nodded. “I’ve heard many tales of them, I remember Adventurer Cookie’s grandfather used to sing songs of their accomplishments. How did it go? Um…”

Radiant light, pure and true. May you heal all woes and sorrows. Heart that’s kind and pure and true, outshines the sun’s tomorrows.

Passion stronger than a thousand suns shield all from despair, may joyous laughter fill the land and sweet song fill the air.

Warrior born of bitterest winter cold and adversities’ steel, sword of resolution never falter never yield.

Golden, gilded, gleaming, glow never touched by dust nor rust. May golden fields of wheat grow wherever your wings may touch.

Fallen angel of the night, Lily blooming bright. May the Darkness bring you peace, rest now from freedom's fight.

“Each verse is for one of the five Ancient Heroes, to honor their sacrifices and praise their accomplishments for Cookie Kind.” “Wow,” Red Velvet Cookie breathed, “They all sound amazing! Wish I could have met them.”

Arf! Arf! Arf!

“I think Chiffon found something!” Red Velvet Cookie said, upon hearing his friend’s barks. “I think I hear something,” Blackberry Cookie said. “Hey, c’mon, down boy. Chill out!” A voice said. “That’s him,” Blackberry Cookie said with a nod. “That’s Adventurer Cookie.” The duo soon came across a Cookie with a stetson hat and an orange bandana. He was covered in Cremlin Cream and tangled up in a rope. He looked afraid when he heard the two approaching but relaxed when he saw Blackberry Cookie. He looked relieved, albeit a bit embarrassed. “Blackberry Cookie! Oh boy am I ever glad to see you! Not that I was scared or worried or anything, I’m just… Glad to see you’re all right,” He said with an embarrassed chuckle. “I’m not even going to ask how this happened,” she replied, referring to his current state. “A-actually there’s a perfectly logical explanation for this! You see, I was fighting these little critters that kept trying to attack me and one of ‘em exploded…” Blackberry Cookie raised an eyebrow. “I’m serious! It just blew up!” Adventurer Cookie exclaimed. “If he’s talking about the same monsters my friends and I have been dealing with, he's telling the truth. They explode and scatter sticky cream,” Red Velvet Cookie said.

“Sticky is right. I tried to get the stuff off my rope, and then my rope stuck to my hand, and then my hand stuck to my arm, and then my arm got stuck to my chest, and then…. Well, you get the picture.” Blackberry Cookie chuckled softly. “Well, I’m glad to see you are at least in one piece and unharmed. Here, let me help you.” Red Velvet grabbed her arm with his Cake hand before she could reach Adventurer Cookie. “Blackberry Cookie, wait! If you touch him you’ll get stuck too! But don’t worry, Chiffon and I can handle this. This stuff doesn’t work on Cakes.” Chiffon took that as a cue to knock Adventurer Cookie down and start licking the Cream off. Adventurer Cookie laughed loudly as the Cake tickled him with his wet, pink tongue. “HAHAHAHAHAHA! S-stop, that tickles!” Blackberry Cookie placed her hand over her mouth in an attempt to hide her own chuckling. Red Velvet used his Cake hand to pull the rope free from its sticky prison and untangle Adventurer Cookie. He wiggled so much that it took the job almost two minutes, but finally the two had the Cookie clean and free of Cremlin Cream.

He stood up and dusted himself off. Blushing slightly and sheepishly clearing his throat. He tried to regain his composure. “Thanks for helping me get outta that sticky situation, friend. The name’s Adventurer Cookie. Famous explorer and treasure tracker extraordinaire!” he said, smiling and holding out his hand. Red Velvet took it with his Cake hand and shook it, “Red Velvet Cookie, and that’s Chiffon,” he said nodding at the Cake Hound who was holding Adventure Cookie’s hat in his mouth and wagging his tail. “Thanks little guy,” Adventurer Cookie said, taking the hat back from him and placing it back on his head. “I was in the middle of searching for some ancient ruins from the Heroes Era, you wouldn’t happen to know about that would you?” Red Velvet Cookie blinked. “You mean… The ruins of an old kingdom?” Adventurer Cookie beamed, “Yes! Exactly! I hear the castle may still have some old treasures in its walls belonging to the Ancient Heroes.”

“Um… Well, my friends and I haven’t been to the castle yet. But the ruins you’re talking about are probably the ones my friends and I are making into our new home.” Adventurer Cookie scratched his head. “I’ve heard of Cookies restoring ancient ruins for a lotta reasons but, never to live in.” He said with a chuckle. “From what I’ve seen, there has already been some progress in clearing out the woods and brambles from around the kingdom,” Blackberry Cookie added, “Some of the kingdom’s utilities are already in working order and I think it would only be fair to say anything on these lands belongs to the Cookies who call this place home. Wouldn’t you, Adventurer Cookie?” The Explorer looked a little disappointed at first, but the expression was quickly replaced with a smile. “Well, yeah. Squatters rights and all that. And besides finders keepers, and if they found this place first. It’s only fair.” Blackberry Cookie nodded, proud of her partner's good sportsmanship about the whole ordeal.

Red Velvet couldn’t help but feel a little guilty, he and his friends had just happened upon this place by chance. Actually… It was the Cakes that brought them here. Who knows how long Adventurer Cookie had been searching for the lost kingdom. “Sorry the expedition didn’t turn out the way you were hoping it would,” he said, rubbing the back of his neck with his Cake arm. Adventurer Cookie waved his hand, “Aw pshaw, I don’t care about the treasure as much as I do about the journey. And the credit for being the one who found this place. But y’know what’s bigger than finding a lost kingdom?” Red Velvet shrugged when he realized he wasn’t going to answer his own question at first. “Finding an old kingdom and then making it into a new one! Now that’s something no explorer has ever done before. How’s about I lend you guys a hand in the restoration? My family happens to be loaded! We’re talking filthy rich. We can fund the project!”

“Really, you’d do that?” Red Velvet Cookie said with a grin. “You bet your boots. Besides, this place has got plenty of unexplored territory. It’s practically one big adventure just waiting to be had! And no self-respecting explorer would miss out on an opportunity like that.” Blackberry Cookie rolled her eyes. Typical. “If you’re planning on staying a while we can have the Sugar Gnomes build you a Cookie House. It’s the least we can do if you’re going to help us rebuild,” Red Velvet said with a smile. Chiffon bounced a few times, barking in agreement. “Much obliged partner,” Adventurer Cookie said with a charming tip of his hat. “So,” Blackberry Cookie said, walking up to her employer. “Did you find anything of interest besides exploding monsters?” “Well…” Adventurer Cookie said, “Nothing glamorous, but I did find something interesting at least. Come on, I’ll show ya.”

The two Cookies and Cake Hound followed the excited explorer to a small clearing. Where large bushes filled with red ripe berries smothered the trees and spread across the ground in an overgrown heap like a forest carpet. “Wow!” Red Velvet Cookie breathed. “Jellyberries… Wild ones. I’ve never seen so many,” Blackberry Cookie said. “I think this place used to be a Jellyberry Orchard… But without a caretaker to keep the bushes trimmed it must of grown outta control,” Adventurer Cookie reasoned. “If you can get through the mess though, the berries are quite tasty,” he said, plucking a large berry off a nearby bush and popping it into his mouth. Red Velvet gently picked a berry from a bush and placed it into his mouth. It was much juicier than the Jellybeans, and the flavor was different. It was more tart than sweet, but still enjoyable. “There’s enough food here to last three Cookies almost two months. And we can always plant more bushes with the extra berries. This place really is paradise,” he said, smiling down at Chiffon. Who was looking at him with his big sparkly brown eyes.

“C’mon, Chiffon. Let’s take some back to the others!” Red Velvet said, grabbing a handful of berries. “That’s a great idea! After all, a working kingdom needs a good food supply. And there’s enough Jellyberries here to feed an army!” Adventurer Cookie laughed as he removed his hat and began to fill it with berries. “Save the riper ones to be planted so a new Orchard can be grown,” suggested Blackberry Cookie. The trio of Cookies and Cake Hound returned to the kingdom with their bounty in hand. By the time they got back, the sun was low in the sky and casting long shadows from the afternoon light. Adventurer Cookie was in the middle of telling the tale of one of his “famous” adventurers, and Red Velvet was listening with wide eyes. He was interrupted by a small voice.

“Mommy! Daddy!”

Blackberry and Adventurer Cookie looked up to see a small purple haired Cookie in a white dress running towards them. “Onion Cookie!” Adventurer Cookie exclaimed as he bent down to let the small Cookie run into his arms. He hugged her tight and stroked her hair. “Hey baby girl, are you crying again? What’s wrong huh?” The little girl sniffed and replied tearfully, “I lost Onion Rabbit!” “Again?” Blackberry Cookie sighed. “Oh, don’t worry dear, we’ve found him before we’ll find him again.” She said, patting her daughter’s head. “What’s an Onion Rabbit?” Red Velvet Cookie asked. “It’s her favorite doll,” Poison Mushroom Cookie said walking up to the group. “We’ve been trying to find it but so far no luck.” Blackberry looked at Poison Mushroom and smiled, “Is this your new friend, dear?” Onion Cookie paused her crying for just a moment to smile slightly and nod. “Uh-huh, Poison Mushroom Cookie’s been helping me look for Onion Rabbit but… We…. WE CAN’T FIND HIM ANYWHERE! WHAAAAAAAA!” Adventurer and Blackberry continued to try to comfort their daughter, Poison Mushroom Cookie joined in. He hated seeing any Cookie cry, especially one of his friends.

“Magic has been used to build entire civilizations! Name one time so much as a town has been built using Alchemy!”

“As a matter of fact, there was this very famous Alchemist who…”

“Oh boy,” Red Velvet Cookie groaned as Licorice and Alchemist Cookie wandered into sight. “They’re at it again.” “If he’s so famous why haven’t I heard about him?” Licorice snapped. “Because you only know about MAGIC!” Alchemist Cookie shouted in response. “Guys… Can you chill out a little? You’re scaring Onion Cookie,” Poison Mushroom Cookie said, hugging the crying girl. The two stopped when they noticed her, “Oh… S-sorry about that,” Licorice Cookie said sheepishly. “Sorry, Sweetie. We were just having a… Loud disagreement,” Alchemist said awkwardly. Onion Cookie sniffled and rubbed her eyes. Blackberry Cookie looked towards the setting sun. “It will be getting dark soon, we may not have time to find Onion Rabbit.” Onion Cookie gasped. “But we can’t leave him all by himself in the dark! He gets scared when he’s alone! I get scared when I’m alone,” Onion Cookie sniffled before bursting into a fresh set of tears. Poison Mushroom Cookie desperately tried to calm her again but to no avail.

“I’ve never heard of an Onion Rabbit,” Alchemist Cookie said, “Is that her pet or something?” Adventurer Cookie shook his head, “It’s her favorite doll. She can’t go anywhere without it.” He sighed loudly. “She’s always losing it.” A look of realization suddenly flashed across Licorice Cookie’s face, “Oh, wait. Does it look…” he dug into the pockets of his robe and pulled out a small purple plush toy with leaves for ears, arms, and legs. “Something like this?” Onion Cookie gasped loudly. “Onion Rabbit!” She ran up to Licorice and he gently returned the toy to her. She hugged it tight and nuzzled its soft fabric against her cheek. Adventurer Cookie sighed in relief. He knew his daughter wasn’t going to sleep without that toy. Which meant he wouldn’t be able to sleep until it had been found. Which meant he would have to spend the night searching the kingdom in the dark with a lantern. Like he’d done many, many, many times before. “I found it near the Tree of Wishes. It had a big hole in the side so I decided to patch him up. I figured I’d give it to Bat-Cat but since it already has an owner…” Licorice Cookie said with a smile. “He’s right, Mommy look! Onion Rabbit’s boo-boo is all better!” Onion Cookie said holding up her precious doll. “I see,” Blackberry Cookie laughed. “Thank you for finding and fixing my little girl’s Onion Rabbit,” she said, turning to Licorice Cookie. “Aw, it was nothing,” Licorice said, rubbing the back of his neck. “I still can’t believe you know how to sew,” Alchemist Cookie said to Licorice.

“Oh, so this is Onion Rabbit,” Poison Mushroom Cookie said. “Hi, Onion Rabbit.” Onion Cookie held the toy in front of her face, and waved one of its arms, “Hello,” ‘Onion Rabbit’ said in a high pitched voice. Poison Mushroom Cookie gasped. “It can talk!?” The other Cookies laughed at Poison Mushroom Cookie’s reaction. “Oh, isn’t that a wonderful sound?” Charlie the Sugar Gnome said, walking up to the group with his two brothers in tow. “Yes, yes, it's been so long since the sweet sound of Cookies' laughter has filled the air. Just think, just this morning it was just the three of us, and now look at all the Cookies that have come to call the kingdom home! Doopity-doo!” Olaf replied happily. Red Velvet looked at Davis worriedly. “Um… Davis… Why are you melting?” The other two Sugar Gnomes looked at Davis. “It’s on account of the soft sugar we’re made of my dear, Red Velvet Cookie. Finely-spun, oh-so-delicate, four-star sugar. Just the tiniest tiniest bit of emotion and… we melt,” Davis chuckled in response. “It’s perfectly normal for a Sugar Gnome, I should know, my soft warm feelings have had me melting at least 5 times today,” Olaf said. “Boys! Pull yourselves together! There’s still so much to Doopity-doo! We have Cookie Houses to build! Land to clear out!”

“Don’t cha think it’s getting kinda late?” Poison Mushroom Cookie said, looking up at the sky which was being painted with shades of orange and red from the sunset. “All the more reason we must get ALL the houses finished. Now let’s see, we need once each for Red Velvet, Licorice, and Poison Mushroom. A two story for Alchemist and her brother. A big one for Adventurer Cookie and his family…” “My family is more used to something mansion sized,” Adventurer said. Blackberry Cookie placed her hand over his mouth. “But if you’re pressed for time a small one will do.”

DOOOOOOOOOOT

The sound of a horn rang from the forest, starling some birds out of the trees. “Don’t tell me,” Davis said in wide eyed amazement as three more Cookies appeared from the forest. “ ‘ello friends! Sparklin’ Cookie, look. Cookies!” One said, she looked like a Cookie from the top, but she had the bottom half of a horse, she wore a fig hat and carried a horn in her hands. The Cookie next to her had fizzy yellow hair, he wore a tired expression and an outfit that would have looked quite dashing, had it not been torn and dirty, as if he had gotten into a fight with a bramble bush. A few small Cakes were leading the way, wagging their tails happily as they entered the Kingdom’s clearing. “Oh, thank goodness,” the yellow haired Cookie said, dropping to his knees. “It feels like we’ve been walking forever!” The centar Cookie gave him a look, “I told ya yeh could swap places with ‘erb anytime, laddy. He asked ya several times if yeh needed a break.” Sparkling Cookie shook his head. “Absolutely not, Herb is much too soft to make the long walk here.”

Herb Cookie, a Cookie with bright green leaves for hair, gently slid off of the other Cookie’s back. “Thank you for all your help, Fig Cookie,” he said with a warm smile. “Glad I could ‘elp boys.” Red Velvet, his friends, and the Sugar Gnomes went to greet the newcomers. “Oh ho ho, welcome everyone to the Cookie Kingdom. Please forgive the mess, we’re in the middle of renovating. But if you plan to stay we can build you all your own Cookie Houses lickity split. Dippity-doo!” Sparkling Cookie rubbed his sore feet. Herb took a deep breath. “The air,” he bent down and rubbed the ground, “The grass,” he picked up a handful of dirt, “The earth. This place is just so alive. Oh, is there a source of running water anywhere near here?” Charlie nodded, “As a matter of fact, there’s a bubbling soda stream not too far from here. We just have to clear the monsters out of the area,” he said under his breath. “Clean air, fresh water, fertile soil. This place is perfect, Sparkling!”

Herb Cookie reached onto Fig Cookie’s back and pulled something off. It was a small plant pot filled with dirt, and a tiny green plant nestled inside. “What do you think, Little Sprout?” he said to the plant before holding it up to his ear. Alchemist Cookie raised an eyebrow, “What are you…” Sparkling Cookie shushed her. Herb finally lowered the potted plant and smiled. “She says it's perfect! This is it! This is the place where we make our new home!” The Sugar Gnomes (naturally) broke into excited cheers when they heard that. “That’s great news! Welcome to the kingdom. My name is Red Velvet Cookie, and these are my friends, Licorice and Poison Mushroom.” “Hi new friends!” Poison Mushroom Cookie said waving hello. “Um… I’m sorry,” Bat-Cat said tilting his head. “But did you say your plant said that this place was perfect or… Did I mishear that? I have great hearing. It's very unlikely I misheard it but…”

Herb Cookie shook his head, “Oh no, she loves it here. And…” He paused and lifted the plant to his ear again, he was silent for a moment before he frowned. “Oh do I really have to? I’m sure there are lots of new plants here too…” He went silent again… then sighed. “Ok…” “Um… What’s she saying?” Red Velvet Cookie asked. Feeling a little silly to be addressing a plant as a “she”. “She says… She’s glad there are other Cookies here so… I can make some new friends.” He said softly, looking down at the ground and hugging his plant tighter. “Herb Cookie is very shy. He gets along better with flowers and trees than he does with his own kind,” Sparkling Cookie explained, finally getting to his feet. “That’s ridiculous! Plants can’t talk! It’s scientifically imposs… OW!” Alchemist Cookie had started to say, before receiving a smack from Licorice Cookie. She glared at him and he pointed to Herb, who was looking down and rocking back and forth on his feet. She looked at Licorice with a raised eyebrow and Licorice rolled his eyes. “Cookies saying stuff like that is probably the reason he has a hard time making friends in the first place!” He hissed through gritted teeth. Realization flashed across her face as his words sunk in… “Um… What I mean is… I’ve never heard a plant talk. But… It’s pretty cool you can.”

Herb looked up and smiled ever so slightly. “Oh, anyone can. If you listen hard enough. They always whisper, their voices are like the gentle breeze. You have to be very quiet to hear them.” “It’s louder if there's a ton o’ ‘em though. Just listen! Listen to nature’s call, hi! Hi!” Fig Cookie said, raising her horn to her lips and blowing. The sound echoed from within the forest. “Yeh little fellas are sure this be the Cookie Paradise?” She said, turning to the Cake Hounds that had escorted the three Cookies into the Kingdom. They barked and nodded. “Well, even we don’t know for certain,” Licorice Cookie said. “I’m not sure if that’s actually a real place. But if you ask me, anywhere that isn’t a Witch’s House is paradise to me,” Alchemist Cookie said, shuddering at some unpleasant memory. “I certainly think this place is paradise. And hey, even if it’s a little run down, even if it's not perfect… It’s home. And that’s what truly matters right?” Red Velvet Cookie said. All Cookies and Cakes present voiced their agreement.

“Good. Now that ya two have found yer ‘ome, it’s time fer me ta be gettin’ back ta mine,” Fig Cookie said, blowing her horn. “Farewell friends!” She said, galloping back into the forest with the Cake Hounds in tow. “Oh, so she’s… Not staying,” Charlie said, sounding very disappointed. “Fig says she belongs to the forest. Whatever that means,” Sparkling Cookie said. “But we’ll definitely be staying,” Herb said with a smile. “And now that we’re here, that means I can finally break out the celebratory juice!” Sparkling Cookie said, pulling a bottle of red liquid from… Somewhere, and popping the cork. Vampire Cookie materialized next to his sister. “I smell Grape Juice!” “Don’t even think about it…” Alchemist began to say. It was too late, he was already standing next to Sparkling Cookie and smelling the aroma from the bottle. “Ooh, don’t tell me that’s Cabernet Sauvignon. The good stuff.” Sparkling Cookie smiled, “Well, I love a fella who knows his juice. Most Cookies don’t know much about my craft and the dedication it takes to make proper quality drinks.”

“Sparkling Cookie is the best Juice Maker in all of Earthbread, he can tell exactly what kind of juice a Cookie would like even if he’s never met them before. Or if it's their first time,” Herb Cookie said. Vampire draped his arm around Sparkling’s shoulder. “Sparky… I can tell you and I are gonna be great friends.” Alchemist Cookie groaned loudly and facepalmed. “I’d love to give you all a demonstration of my skills but… I’m a little low on ingredients. I need fruit, any kind at all. The juicer the better. You guys got any laying around?” Sparkling Cookie asked. “I’ll go to the Tree of Wishes and have the Blueberry Birds bring us one of every type of fruit in existence!” Vampire Cookie shouted. He’d run off before anyone could even blink. With speed so extreme one would have thought he teleported. A bit of a hush fell over the group from the suddenness and absurdity of Vampire Cookie’s actions. Alchemist Cookie sighed.

“Well, it’s getting late and the Sugar Gnomes don’t have the Cookie Houses up just yet. So I’ll guess we’ll just have to start a bonfire and camp out under the stars until they’re finished. I’ll handle the fire,” She said with a proud smile. “Choco Werehound Brute help too!” Schwarzwälder exclaimed. “Uh… No thanks. I don’t require help from anyone who associates themselves with Wizards.” Alchemist replied, sticking her nose up in the air and walking away. Licorice glared at her as she left. “Um… Do they always fight like this?” Sparkling Cookie whispered to Red Velvet. “Yes… And they only met just this morning.”

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Night had fallen over the Cookie Kingdom. Many of the Cookies got to see the stars for the first time in their lives. After Alchemist had the fire going, the Ovenbaked Cookies could all be found sitting together and staring up at the night sky. “Wow,” Herb Cookie breathed. “I… I’ve seen pictures in books but…” Licorice Cookie began. “It’s even more beautiful in real life,” Alchemist Cookie finished. Chiffon curled up in Red Velvet’s lap as the Cake-Cookie hybrid stared, unblinking, up into the dark purple sky. The silver lights twinkled overhead reflecting in the Cookies’ eyes. “So… Pretty…” Poison Mushroom Cookie said, reaching up as if trying to grab one of the beautiful lights. “Hey, Licorice Cookie, what happens if one of them falls out of the sky? Would it ever see its friends again?” Licorice wasn't sure how to answer. Alchemist scoffed and rolled her eyes, “Stars can’t fall out of the sky. It’s scientifically impossible. They’re big balls of hydrogen and helium, millions and millions of…”

“Do you mind? You’re kinda ruining the moment, Alchemist Cookie. Not everything has to be about science all the time you know. Can’t it ever just be what it is without you having to give an explanation about it? We get it, you’re smart, you don’t have to prove it with every given opportunity.” Licorice Cookie said. Alchemist would have argued with him if he hadn’t stuck what she felt was meant to be a compliment at the end. And… It honestly made her feel good to have that acknowledged. But it was the last sentence that she was now turning over in her head. No one had ever told her that before, and the thought made her feel… Relaxed. It was the first time in her life she’d ever felt that way.

Vampire Cookie soon returned, carrying more gift wrapped boxes than a Cookie his size should have been able to carry. But he didn’t seem bothered by the weight. Sparkling Cookie soon set to work picking out which fruits to mix to make the individualized juices for everyone. Vampire Cookie watched with wide eyes and more attentiveness than he’d shown in anything since his arrival at the kingdom. He was leaning forward with a mesmerized expression like a spell bound child. Red Velvet Cookie was watching with a similar fascination, but for a different reason. Vampire was concerned with the juice he was making. Red Velvet enjoyed watching Sparkling Cookie’s smile. He could tell as he worked, there was light in his eye. His movements were fluid, almost like a dance as he shook and tossed his golden jigger. (That’s the name of the cup he used to mix the juice.) Red Velvet could tell he was passionate about his craft, and he always loved when his friends shared their passions.

That was his favorite part of making friends, learning what they loved to do. Every Cookie he met had a different passion or favorite skill. And even if he didn’t fully understand it, like Licorice Cookie’s magic or Alchemist Cookie’s Alchemy, it was still fun to learn. It probably stemmed from the fact that before this morning his entire world was limited to four gray walls and a mold covered roof. And the company of two little Cookies and a Bat-Cat who each had something different that made them happy. And when you live each day wondering if it will be your last, happiness is an elusive and precious treasure. But there seemed to be no shortage of it in the outside world. He loved hearing the excitement in Alchemist Cookie’s voice as she explained some complicated science thing. He loved the look of pride on Sparkling Cookie’s face as Vampire complimented his juice making skills. He loved hearing Poison Mushroom Cookie laugh as he played with Onion Cookie and their dolls. (Poison Mushroom had made his own toy out of a stick and a Shroomy, which he had drawn a smiley face on.)

There were so many new and exciting things to experience in the outside world, and he wanted to see them all. Even the tiniest thing, even Chiffon’s rhythmic breathing as he lay curled up in his lap, brought the Cake-Cookie hybrid great joy. “If this is all just a dream…. Just a wonderful, impossible dream. I don’t ever want to wake up,” he said softly, stroking his hand across Chiffon’s white frosting fur. “Me neither,” Licorice Cookie said, pulling his hood down so Bat-Cat could fly inside and curl into a ball. Schwarzwälder watched with a smile as the flying feline fell asleep. “He’s so cute,” he whispered. “I know right,” Licorice Cookie chuckled as he sipped his juice, he suddenly dropped it and jumped up. “Poison Mushroom Cookie no!” He ran over to the tiny Cookie, who was trying to give one of his Shroomies to Sparkling Cookie to make juice with. “Sparkling I wouldn’t use that if I were you. Now, Poison Mushroom Cookie, what have I told you about giving your Shroomies to new friends?” Poison Mushroom Cookie lowered his head. “To not to.” “And why is that?” Licorice Cookie asked with his arms crossed over his chest. “Because only we can eat them, and if they’ve never eaten a Shroomy they get sick…. Like you guys used to.” Licorice Cookie nodded. “Right, now I know you wanna do something nice for our new friends but… That’s not it.”

“Hey cut him some slack, Licorice Cookie. He was only trying to help. That’s more than a certain DEADBEAT BROTHER of mine does. One who never does ANYTHING and NEVER LISTENS!” Alchemist Cookie shouted at her juiced up brother. Vampire Cookie lifted his head slowly and slurred, “What now? I wasn’t listening.” Alchemist Cookie groaned loudly. “This is exactly what I’m talking about! All you ever do is loaf around and mooch off of other Cookies work! Half the time I’m remaking my potions because you keep drinking them!” Vampire Cookie sat his glass down with enough force to splash, he spilled a few drops. He turned to his sister with a glare rivaling her own. Red Velvet could have sworn he saw his eyes glowing. “Oh yeah, I didn’t ask you to drag me out of the oven, you know. You coulda just left without me. You almost did! You made it to the window, I saw you! And yet you turned back and risked getting yourself eaten to save me and for what? If I’m such a burden to you, why’d you bother bringing me along in the first place?!”

“Because you’re my brother and I love you!”

Vampire’s expression changed from anger to shock and then melted into teary eyed gratitude. “Really sis?” he squeaked. “Oh no,” Alchemist said, realizing her mistake. It was too late, Vampire was hugging her tightly and crying loudly. “Aw Alchemist, you’re the best baby sister a guy could have!” “VAMPIRE COOKIE! Get off! No! You’re crying all over me! AUGGHH!” She tried to struggle out of his grip but to no avail. Once Vampire Cookie had you in one of his bear hugs it was impossible to escape until he let you go. He was surprisingly strong. Alchemist just sighed and accepted her fate, blushing slightly as she watched the others’ reactions to her brother’s display of affection.

“Doopity-dee! There you all are!” Charlie said, suddenly appearing. “Great news everyone! The Cookie Houses are finally complete, Doopity-doo!” “How many of them?” Blackberry Cookie said. “All of them!” Charlie replied proudly. “All of them? In one day?” Alchemist Cookie said. “Come on guys, let's go check it out!” Red Velvet Cookie said, cradling Chiffon in his arms and following Charlie.

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“Wow! It’s perfect! So many windows for my plants to get sunlight!” Herb Cookie said.

“It’s a bit smaller than what we’re used to,” Adventurer Cookie remarked.

“But still much bigger than I expected,” Blackberry Cookie replied, impressed.

“Two stories! Perfect. I call second floor, Vamps,” Alchemist Cookie said, turning to her brother.

“That’s cool, as long as I can have the basement all to myself,” Vampire Cookie said with a smile. “Deal!” Alchemist Cookie said, returning the smile.

“It’s a giant Shroomy!” Poison Mushroom Cookie exclaimed.

“It’s perfect, thank you all so much,” Red Velvet Cookie said. Chiffon barked what sounded like a “Thank you”.

Each of the Cookies' houses were tailor made for them. Sparkling Cookie had lots of shelf space and a full length mirror in his bathroom. Licorice Cookie had his own study with rows and rows of bookshelves. (Empty at the moment, but ready to be filled with books of his choosing.) Alchemist and Vampire’s house gave the siblings each their own space. And the Archaeology family’s mini mansion was big enough to be considered luxurious, but small enough to keep clean without outside help. (Which Blackberry Cookie quite appreciated.)

Red Velvet wandered around his own Cookie House, taking in every room with the same thought. Everything's exactly my size! He was used to Witch sized versions of the furniture and utilities his house had. Chiffon followed him around, running around the rooms and down the hallways. He even had a Cookie sized kitchen with fully stocked cabinets. He took one of the jars full of blue jam, and just… held it for a moment. It was strange. The same thing he’d hid behind to stay out of the Witch’s sight a while ago. The same thing, but small enough to fit in his hand. A thing he was used to being big enough to hold several of his own kind captive. He even found a drawer full of Cookie sized eating utensils. Instruments that, when used by the Witch, were objects of execution and torture for a Cookie. It was no surprise that holding a miniature version of it made him feel strange. But also strong. He felt giant among the Cookie sized objects. To be around so many things that he was used to being bigger than him, but he was now bigger than them. Strange. Overwhelmingly so, but in a good way.

But his favorite room in the house by far was the bedroom. It was simple in terms of design. A bed, a small Cake bed for Chiffon, a nightstand, a lamp on the nightstand, a chest of drawers with a mirror atop it, and a ceiling fan. There was a window on the wall opposite to the door. He opened it, and decided to leave it open for the night. The sight of an open window was a comforting one. After all, it had been an open window that blessed him and his friends with freedom. Chiffon barked and jumped onto the bed, hopping up and down as if calling Red Velvet to him. It was at this moment that Red Velvet realized how tired he was. His body felt heavy from all the running and fighting he’d done that day. He could barely keep his eyes open. He shuffled over to the bed and placed his hand on the soft covers. It sank down slightly under his weight. He pulled back suddenly. He wasn’t expecting it to do that. “Um… Chiffon. Are you sure this thing’s safe?” Chiffon gave him a look that said, “What, you don’t trust me?” Red Velvet chuckled slightly, “Well, alright.” He said, climbing onto the bed.

He collapsed into the covers and let out a moan as the soft blankets enveloped his exhausted dough, “I’m in Heaven.” He mumbled into the blanket. Chiffon climbed on top of him and jumped down to his side. He turned in circles several times before flopping down next to him. Red Velvet cradled the tiny pupcake close to his chest and nuzzled his soft dough. Taking comfort in the Cake Hound’s sweet scent.

By habit, Red Velvet Cookie only slept in short intervals. When he fell asleep his senses would be on hyperalert for any sign of the Witch. So even the tiniest sound awoke him. But he didn’t mind. He would awake, remember where he was and fall back asleep. He was used to hearing scratches or creeks, moans or groans or even the occasional scream of a Cookie or Cake meeting their tragic end. But tonight, all he heard was the howl of a Cake Hound in the forest (he could have swore he heard Schwarzwälder howling back once). Vampire Cookie singing, Alchemist yelling loudly for him to shut up. Poison Mushroom Cookie giggling. And if he listened closely, he could almost hear the scratch, scratch, scratch of quill on paper. Licorice Cookie, writing in his journal until odd hours of the night. (Licorice Cookie’s house was right next to his, and both Cookies had left their windows open.) The last thing he remembered hearing was Onion Cookie crying and Blackberry Cookie singing her a lullaby.

"There’s no need to fear the shadows my little one, there's no need to hide, there’s no need to run. My arms shall be your fortress, don’t cry you’re not alone, my heart shall be your castle, you’re safe now, you are home."

The last two lines of the song replayed over and over in Red Velvet Cookie’s head as he fell into the soothing darkness of a dreamless slumber.

Chapter Text

It had been two weeks since the Cookies set foot in the ruins of the Cookie Kingdom. Over the course of those two weeks the land had been transformed from crumbling buildings and silent overgrown roads to bustling streets filled with happy chatter and lively laughter. While nobody had assigned tasks, everyone found something they were good at and enjoyed doing. So everyone played their part in building their home. Each Cookie and Cake and Sugar Gnome left their mark on the newborn nation.

Alchemist, Adventurer, Licorice Cookie, Bat-Cat, and Schwarzwälder became the kingdom's defenders, as they were the best at fighting back the monsters of the forests. Herb tended to the Jellybean and Jellyberry Orchards and the Tree of Wishes. All the yummy jellies the Cookies enjoyed for their daily meals were grown by the young plant lover, so his skill received much respect in their small community, as a result, the shy green haired Cookie slowly came out of his shell. He even began to gain some self-respect upon realizing how much his talents were appreciated. Sparkling handled drinks and beverages, and he had one for every occasion. Feeling sick? Sparkling knew a tonic drink that would make you feel right as rain as soon as you had a sip. Can’t sleep? Sparkling’s lullaby juice would have a Cookie sleeping like a baby in no time. Tired after fighting monsters all day? Sparkling could whip up the most refreshing beverage lickity split. Cookies began to joke that he was the town’s medic, as he knew a recipe for every ailment.

Blackberry Cookie helped the Sugar Gnomes clean up the kingdom where there were overgrown brambles or fallen branches, sometimes Poison Mushroom or Onion Cookie would help her. But usually those two could be found playing together near the Tree of Wishes or running through the kingdom’s grassy fields. Vampire Cookie… He was good company at least. Certainly great for a laugh. But in terms of helping build the kingdom, he was more of a hinder than a help. Alchemist Cookie had lost track of how many times she’d had to apologize for her brother falling asleep on the ground in the middle of the day, and someone tripping over him. The Sugar Gnomes handled construction of course. And Red Velvet did a little bit of everything. He went wherever he was needed, with his trusty companion Chiffon following fatefully behind. Some days he helped Licorice or Adventurer fight off monsters, other days he helped Herb in the Orchards, and other days he ran about doing this and that. Sometimes he even helped the Blueberry Birds deliver the Wish Boxes.

Of course there were limits to his abilities. He found he was better at fetching things Alchemist Cookie needed for her potions than helping her make them. He tried to help Licorice Cookie repair the banners and flags around the kingdom but he kept sticking himself with the sewing needle. So he left those repairs to the expert. When alone however, he found his favorite thing to do was mine sugar cubes. Swinging the Picaxe and breaking off the cubes of sweet sugar had an oddly soothing monotony to it. It also made him feel strong, as he could get twice as many cubes mined in half the time it took any other Cookie to do it. He found he could lift heavy things alone that took other Cookies a team to do. He found that in an arm wrestling match, the only Cookie that could beat him was Vampire Cookie (and that was using his Cookie arm).

He was getting stronger.

Not just the Cake part of him, but the Cookie part as well. It was as if the new appendage had blessed him with the might and bravery of the Cakes. Red Velvet found Cakes to typically be stronger than Cookies, in most cases faster, and in some cases even more intelligent. Schwarzwälder had joked once that Red Velvet was becoming a Cake, but that became less of a joke when Cake Hounds from the forest told the Werehound that they saw him as one of their brothers. Red Velvet was actually quite happy when Schwarzwälder relayed that translation. (Being the only member who could speak both Cake and Cookie.) In his free time whenever his friends were busy, Red Velvet Cookie found himself spending more and more time with his new “brothers”. Playing fetch and tug of war with them in the forest, racing them across the fields and actually being able to keep up with them after a while. On sunny days in the afternoon the Cake-Cookie hybrid could be found sleeping under a tree with several Cake Hounds around or atop him. He’d even found that at times, he didn’t need Schwarzwälder to translate the Cake Hounds' barks, as he already understood what they were trying to say.

Today, Red Velvet Cookie awoke to the same sight that had greeted him since his first morning in his new home. Chiffon’s sparkling brown eyes and tiny nose pressed up against his face. Red Velvet only had seconds to brace himself before being bombarded with wet puppy kisses from the pupcake. “Hahahahahahahahaha! C-Chiffon, ok! Ok! I’m up!” Red Velvet laughed as he picked up the tiny Cake and held him above his head as he rolled onto his back. Chiffon did not at all seem to mind being held aloft above his friend’s smiling face and only waved his tiny legs in midair, barking happily. Red Velvet yawned and raised himself into a sitting position and hugged the pupcake close to his chest. From the open window he could hear the Blueberry Birds’ joyful song, welcoming a new morning. Red Velvet went about his daily routine. Which consisted of taming his bedhead, taking almost 10 minutes to brush his long red and black hair and tie it back to keep it out of his face. He then proceeded to brush Chffon’s frosting fur (with the same brush no less).

Today he noticed something odd about his reflection. His mouth specifically. Even more specifically his teeth, or one tooth. Off to the side. He leaned in closer to his reflection and opened his mouth wider. One little tooth that stuck out farther than the rest. Did he always have a… fang? Indeed, it looked like a sharp tooth that belonged to a fearsome Cake Hound, not a Cookie. The rest of his mouth was normal though. It was his reaction that wasn’t. He wasn’t startled or even the slightest bit worried by the sudden incisor. In fact, as he ran his tongue across the sharp tooth, he felt pride in it as he watched it sparkle. It made him feel strong. “I’d like to see a Witch try to mess with me now!” He said, half to himself, half to Chiffon as he jumped off the stool and trotted out the door.

The day was bright and sunny with just a few clouds drifting lazily by, occasionally blocking the sun and casting a slight shade over the land. The air smelt of wildflowers and freshly baked Hearty Rye Bread. It smelled like home. Chiffon gleefully barked and ran circles around Red Velvet Cookie as the Cake-Cookie hybrid made his way to the Tree of Wishes. The Tree had once again become the go-to get-together spot for the Cookies of the Kingdom. The small group of desserts had made that the place they went every morning to eat breakfast together and plan the day's activities.

Vampire was already asleep under the Tree in his usual spot. Sparkling was mixing up another batch of juice while Blackberry and Herb chatted. Poison Mushroom and Onion were under the waffle table coloring together. And two of the Sugar Gnomes sat together on a small picnic mat, drinking tea. Chiffon’s barks alerted the others to their arrival. “Oh, good morning, Red Velvet Cookie. Hello, Chiffon,” Herb said with one of his warm smiles, “Isn’t the weather lovely today? I just love spring time, it's the time for all sorts of flowers and plants…” Blackberry Cookie sneezed into a handkerchief. “And allergies,” she lamented with a sniff. “I’ve got just the thing for that! A little honey and ginseng juice will fix you right up Ms. Blackberry!” Sparkling Cookie said with one of his dazzling smiles. “Thank you, Sparkling Cookie.”

“And that proves once and for all that Alchemy outperforms magic!”

“You can’t make that conclusion on one victory!”

“They’ve been at it all day,” Adventurer Cookie groaned as he, Licorice, and Alchemist Cookie came into view. “Well, that's your own fault for agreeing to go monster hunting with them. You know how those two are,” Red Velvet chuckled as he scooped up a handful of Star Jellies from a basket in the center of the table and passed a few to Chiffon. “Monster hunting? Before breakfast, Adventurer Cookie?” Blackberry Cookie questioned. “We wanted to get an early start. But maaaybe we shoulda eaten first…. All the fighting sure got me working up an appetite!” Adventurer Cookie said. “You fighting monsters or those two fighting with each other?” Red Velvet said, pointing to Alchemist and Licorice (who were still in a verbal tirade). “Both,” Adventurer Cookie sighed as he sat down next to Blackberry Cookie.

“By the way, Licorice Cookie, who are your friends?” Red Velvet asked, looking behind Licorice. “Huh?” the Dark Wizard replied, turning around to see three small Licorice Creatures. “Oh for the love of… What part of ‘get lost’ do you guys not understand?!” He shouted at the creatures. “Where’d you find them?” Herb asked. “Licorice saved them from some monsters in the forest and now they won’t leave him alone,” Adventurer Cookie replied. “They’re made out of the same ingredients you are, Licorice Cookie. Maybe they think you’re their papa,” Alchemist Cookie laughed. “WHAT?!? No, no, a thousand times no! I already have Bat-Cat and Schwarzwälder and… Gah! See, they have no concept of personal space!” He said, one of the creatures was hugging his leg, one was pulling his robes, and the last one looked like he was trying to climb up his robes onto his back. “No, no! Get off!” Licorice Cookie shouted, shaking his leg and flailing his arms. He almost lost his balance several times. The sight was so comical that Red Velvet couldn’t help but laugh, a few more Cookies joined in. Licorice glared at them.

“Aw, come on, Licorice Cookie, you gotta admit they’re cute!” Schwarzwälder said with a laugh. “Cute they may be but I don’t need any more mouths to feed. I already have your bottomless pit of an appetite to worry about,” Licorice Cookie replied. “Ooh! You should give them names! How about Larry, Moe, and Curly? Hahaha!” Alchemist Cookie said. “They already have names, Alchemist Cookie. Licastor, Liciam, and Licorina. They’re triplets.” Alchemist Cookie raised an eyebrow, “Oh, so you don’t want to keep them… Yet you’ve given them names?” “No. They already have names and they told me what they were,” Licorice Cookie replied. Alchemist looked down at the creatures. “They… Told you?” The creatures squeaked in response. “You can understand them?” Red Velvet asked. “Well of course I can! Can’t you? They’re speaking plain Cookieish!”

Eeep! Eeep! Eeep!

“Um… Licorice Cookie… All I hear is squeaking,” Alchemist Cookie said. “Yeah, me too,” Adventurer Cookie said. “What? But I can understand them just fine!” Licorice Cookie exclaimed in confusion. Alchemist Cookie tapped her chin. “Maybe… Because you’re made out of the same ingredients you have some sort of connection to them. A…. Licorice language perhaps?” Licorice Cookie blinked. “Huh… Maybe.”

“And if you’re the only one who can understand them, that’s all the more reason for them to imprint on you, hahahaha!”

“Oh, for shadow’s sake, they don’t call me papa, Alchemist Cookie!”

“What are they referring to you as?” Alchemist laughed. Licorice sighed, “Right now all I’ve gotten out of them is Great and Mighty Wizard.”

“And what’s the problem with that? Come on, Licorice Cookie, all the great Wizards had a band of followers and minions,” Red Velvet reasoned. “I don’t need minions! What on Earthbread would I do with minions?” “I dunno, your chores?” Alchemist Cookie said with a shrug. “Maybe if you had a few extra team members you’d actually be able to beat me. You said the only reason I won is because you didn’t have your whole crew today.” “So, you won today, sis?” Vampire Cookie yawned from his spot under the Tree. “Yup! My Alchemy took out three more monsters than Licorice Cookie’s magic!” She replied proudly. “Humph! You wouldn't have won had Bat-Cat been there! Where is that darn furball anyway?”

“I don’t appreciate the furball comment, Meowster.”

“There you are!” Licorice Cookie shouted as Bat-Cat flew down from somewhere. “Where have you been all morning? Thanks to you, Alchemist Cookie took OUR bragging rights today!” Bat-Cat licked his paw and began to groom himself. “You know I always stretch my wings first thing in the morning. I was taking my daily flight around the kingdom. Who are they?” Bat-Cat said, eyeing the Licorice Creatures. “Just some critters I picked up in the forest… What…? No, he’s saying ‘Master’ that’s just the way he talks,” Licorice Cookie explained to one of the Licorice Creatures who had made a questioning squeak. A few more squeaks followed. “What? No you can’t….” All of them started squeaking. Licorice facepalmed. “Great, now they’re calling me Master too.” Alchemist laughed, “I don’t think you’re gonna get rid of them, Licorice Cookie.” Licorice groaned loudly, “Why me?”

Bat-Cat simply focused on grooming himself through the whole ordeal. Red Velvet Cookie noticed something sparkling as he moved his head. “Hey, Bat-Cat. Where’d you get the new collar?” Bat-Cat paused his grooming and smiled proudly. “You like? Meowster made it for me! Isn’t it purrrrrfect?” The collar was made of multicolored fabric, in the front dangled a blue jewel shaped sort of like a four petal flower. “I made it out of some scrap fabric from the banners I fixed up. And the gem I found near the ruins of the old castle,” Licorice Cookie explained. “I’d threaten to take it from him for not being around when I needed him but it's the first truly nice thing he’s ever owned,” he whispered to Alchemist. He watched as Bat-Cat purred at his reflection in Herb’s watering can.

All of the sudden, the peaceful atmosphere was broken by the sound of, “Trouble! Trouble! Doo-dee-doo!” Davis shouted running up to the group like there was a dragon on his tail. Poison Mushroom Cookie came out from under the table. “Davis… What’s wrong? Why are you so crazy?” He asked. Davis was breathing heavily, his brothers tried to help him steady his breathing and comfort him to keep him from melting. “What is it, Davis? Monsters?” Olaf asked. “No worse!” Davis replied. “Two very clearly up-to-no-good Cookies have broken into the Castle! One had a sharp pointy hat and the other had eyes like red lasers and spikes in her hair! And the way they laughed… It was sinister. One of them said something about stealing the Castle’s treasures!”

The Cookies gasped. “They can’t do that!” Adventurer Cookie shouted, slamming his juice glass down on the table. “Wait, I thought the Castle was blocked off by rubble and ruins. How did these Cookies get in?” Red Velvet Cookie asked. “One of them is a Wizard! He used his magic to lift up all the rubble and they just walked right in! I tried to follow and stop them but the Cookie dropped the rubble and it all came crashing down on me! I almost went from a Sugar Gnome to sugar dust! Doopity-dee…” Davis exclaimed, shuttering. The Cookies couldn’t believe what they were hearing. Not only did these Cookies break into their castle with plans of taking something that wasn’t theirs, but almost hurting one of their friends… That was unforgivable. “Why… That’s… That’s… That's using power to harm another creature that poses no threat to them! That’s improper use of magic! Grrrr, it’s Wizards like that who give magic a bad name! I oughta find this guy and give him a piece of my mind!” Licorice Cookie shouted.

“But with the rubble back in the way, how are we going to get into the castle to stop them?” Alchemist Cookie said. “Gah! It will take weeks to clear that stuff out, by that time those Cookies will be long gone!” Adventurer Cookie exclaimed. “Not if we all work together, we don’t need to clear all of it out, just enough to get into the Castle!” Red Velvet said, standing up. “I agree with Red Velvet Cookie. Our combined efforts will make the work go by much faster,” Blackberry Cookie said. “Work?” Vampire Cookie said, lifting his head. “Choco Werehound Brute can SMASH that rubble into tiny pieces!” Schwarzwälder shouted, brandishing his hammer. “And you!” Licorice Cookie shouted yanking Bat-Cat off the table, “Can fly ahead and stall those Cookies!” “WHAT!?” The winged feline protested. “Get into the Castle and hold them off until we get there! NOW GO!” Licorice Cookie shouted, tossing Bat-Cat into the air. He flapped his wings to prevent himself from falling and turned to face Licorice Cookie with an annoyed glare. “Why me-wee?!”

“Because you can fly! You can bypass the rubble and get into the Castle before us, just… crawl in through a window or something! Now stop lollygagging and get going! We’ll be right behind you.” Bat-Cat rolled his eyes and hissed, “Nayya! Fine!” Before flying off with a huff. “Don’t you take that tone of voice with me, young man!” Licorice Cookie shouted, shaking his fist at the departing pet. “No time to waste, let’s go!” Red Velvet Cookie cheered running off towards the Castle. Chiffon ran by his side, barking loudly. And the Cookies took off towards the Castle.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~Meanwhile, in the Castle~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

A Cookie with a pointy hat and a white scarf looked out the window, “Um… Chili Pepper Cookie, do you think you can hurry it up a bit? I think a Sugar Gnome spotted us or something,” he said, frantically searching the outside for any sign of trouble. A red-haired Cookie was digging through the piles of rubble and tossing various items over her shoulder while saying, “Junk. Worthless… Hemmm…. Probably valuable but not very shiny.”

“CHILI PEPPER COOKIE!”

Chili Pepper dropped the object she was holding and turned to glare at her companion. “Can you hurry it up, please!? If we come back from another mission empty handed, GingerGrave is going to kill us, bring us back to life, and then kill us again!” he shouted. Chili Pepper scoffed, “Don’t get your scarf in a tangle, Pointy Hat. You’re talking to the best treasure tracker and thief in all of Earthbread,” she said proudly, placing a hand on her chest. “That’s the whole reason I brought you with me,” the other one said with narrowed eyes. (Well, eye, the one that wasn’t covered by his white hair.) “Is that a compliment, Wizard Cookie?” Chili Pepper said, raising an eyebrow and smirking. “It’s just a fact. I do the research, you do the treasure finding,” Wizard replied. “Are you sure your research is right about this place? All I’ve found so far is junk!”

Wizard Cookie chuckled, “Trust me, Chili Pepper Cookie, I’m never wrong. This place was built by the five Ancient Cookie Heroes themselves. There’s bound to be something here our Master left, you’re just not looking hard enough!” He snapped. “Well, maybe I’d have a better time finding it if I knew what it was I was looking for!” She shot back. “Something, ANYTHING that could have some sort of sentimental connection to our Master!” Wizard Cookie left the window and began pacing around the room. “Once we have that, we may have enough to summon the other half of his consciousness back from the Abyss. And once his power is restored to full, the Blind King will be able to destroy the barrier the Ancient Heroes placed around his Kingdom. And the Cookies of Night will rise again and bring eternal night to all of Earthbread!” He said dramatically, raising his hands above his head with a flourish. “Yeah, I know that. Why are you monologuing like you’re talking to someone who doesn’t?” Chili Pepper said, raising an eyebrow. Wizard Cookie scoffed. “Have you never heard of dramatic effect?” Chili Pepper rolled her eyes. “Spend half an hour with Custard Cookie III, and you’ll have enough drama to last you a lifetime…. OOH! Wizard Cookie! I think I found it!”

“What? Found what? What did you find?” Wizard Cookie exclaimed, walking over to her. “This!” Chili Pepper Cookie shouted, holding up a glittering golden crown. Wizard Cookie sighed. Of course, she picks up the shiniest thing she can find. Wizard Cookie was about to protest when something caught his eye. “Wait…. The jewels in this crown…” “I know right!” Chili Pepper exclaimed, “It must be worth a fortune!” “No, no, no. Not that. Just look at the colors and shapes. A purple diamond, a pink heart, a green fleur-de-lis lily flower. Chili Pepper you’ve done it! These are the symbols of the five Ancient Cookie Heroes! This has to have some sort of sentimental significance!” Wizard Cookie cheered. “Hey, check this out,” Chili Pepper said, placing the crown on her head. “I’m Queen Chili Pepper Cookie of Treasureland! Bring me all your shiny things or I shall have you fed to the Witches!” The two Cookies laughed loudly. “Hahaha, oh, just don’t break it, ok?” Chili Pepper scoffed and took off the crown, “Ple—ase Wizard Cookie I’m not gonna… Uh oh.”

Wizard Cookie froze. “Uh oh? What do you mean, uh oh?!” “I think it’s already broken,” Chili Pepper said, slight panic rising in her voice. “WHAT!?!” Wizard Cookie shouted. “Take a look, there’s a hole here where I think a jewel’s supposed to go.” Wizard Cookie took the crown from her and examined it. Sure enough, there were four gems and an empty spot where the fifth would be. Wizard groaned loudly. “That’s the Orchid of Truth. Great! Of all the symbols to go missing it had to be our Master’s!” “Will it still work without it?” Chili Pepper Cookie exclaimed, eyes widening at the thought of failing the mission. She knew what would happen if they did. “I don’t know!” Wizard Cookie shouted, making eye contact with her. It was clear they were both thinking the same thing. “O… Ok, don’t panic… It-it’s gotta be around here somewhere!” Chili Pepper shouted, frantically digging through the rubble. Wizard Cookie did the same, lifting junk aside with his magic.

“Hey!” A voice shouted. The two Cookies froze as something flew through the window. “What do you think you’re doing?!” It was a… Flying cat? “Would you believe us if we said we were lost?” Wizard said, hiding the crown behind his back. “Not particularly,” Bat-Cat replied, narrowing his eyes at the intruders. “Well, I tried,” Wizard Cookie whispered to Chili Pepper. Chili Pepper rolled her eyes and walked up to the winged feline. “Step aside, little kitty. What we’re doing here is our business, not yours. So why don’t you go find a ball of yarn to go play with or something?” She sneered. Bat-Cat flew around to see what Wizard Cookie was hiding behind his back. He couldn’t get too close because Chili Pepper jumped next to her partner and brandished a Chili Pepper Dagger. “Ah ah ah. Haven’t you ever heard the saying ‘curiosity killed the cat’?” Bat-Cat backed up a bit, but continued to glare at the two Cookies. “That doesn’t belong to you!” He shouted. “Listen pal, we took it so that makes it ours! You can try to take it back… If you feel like getting a taste of my spicy…”

“Chili Pepper, wait…” Wizard Cookie said, holding his arm out in front of her to stop her from getting any closer to Bat-Cat. “What? Come on! I was really feeling that one!” She protested. Wizard Cookie gave her a look that told her to stop talking. “Do you notice something… Interesting about the gem on that cat’s collar?” She looked at the creature, who was tilting his head in confusion. Why would he suddenly change the subject to… Oh no. Chili Pepper smiled. “Yeah… It is quite shiny isn’t it?” Bat-Cat flew well out of the Cookie’s reach and hissed, clasping his paws over the jewel of his collar. “Don’t even think about it! My Meowster made this for me!” Wizard Cookie wasn’t focused on him, he was sighing and still talking to Chili Pepper. “Not only that but the color, the shape…” He tapped the empty spot on the crown. Chili Pepper looked up at Bat-Cat, who had removed his paws from the jewel as he hastily searched for an exit. “Oh yeah…” Chili Pepper Cookie said, suddenly realizing what Wizard Cookie was trying to say. The jewel on his collar was blue and the shape matched the space in the crown perfectly.

Bat-Cat finally spotted the window he’d flown into earlier and zipped towards it. But his hopes of escape were dashed by the window suddenly shutting, seemingly on its own, he was lucky he noticed in time and managed to catch himself before he flew into it. He faltered, flapping his wings wildly as he tried to steady himself, he’d dropped near to the ground when he heard Wizard Cookie’s voice, coldly saying, “Here, kitty, kitty, kitty.” Bat-Cat looked up in horror to see Chili Pepper and Wizard Cookie with their weapons in hand and slowly advancing. Blue magic crackled and sparked around Wizard Cookie’s Candy Wand. Chili Pepper ran her hand across the blade of her dagger. “Just hold still, and maybe we won’t hurt you,” she warned. Bat-Cat shrunk back, his pupils narrowed to slits as his fight-or-flight response kicked in. He chose flight. As in, take flight and fly around the room in a blind panic trying to lose them. What followed for the next several minutes was the two Cookies running and jumping about and tripping over things trying to catch the flying cat. All while Bat-Cat tried to stay out of their reach, and avoid any lighting blasts from Wizard Cookie as he frantically searched for another way out.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~Meanwhile, outside~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The Cookies, Cakes, and Sugar Gnomes were smashing and throwing aside rubble as fast as they could. Red Velvet lifted up larger chunks with his Cake arm, Licorice moved aside rocks and cut down overgrown brambles with this scythe, Schwarzwälder broke pieces that were too big to be lifted with his hammer and Poison Mushroom Cookie helped him with his explosive Shroomies. Chiffon picked up a rock and happily moved it aside, wagging his tail all the way. The Licorice Creatures followed suit. But despite their combined efforts, they’d barely made a dent in the pathway. It was clear they would never make it in time at this pace. The only one that wasn’t helping was Vampire Cookie, who watched the others toss aside rubble and kick up dust from his spot atop a large rock. Alchemist Cookie groaned loudly, “VAMPIRE COOKIE, get down here and help us!” She shouted. “I am helping! I’m very busy supervising… and…” He sipped his juice, “Offering my support, *hic* you guys are doing great by the way. *hic* ‘cuse me.” Alchemist Cookie groaned and tugged at her pigtails in frustration. “Vampire Cookie… Stop being such a lazy good-for-nothing! There’s no way we can clear this without your help!” Schwarzwälder whispered to Licorice Cookie, “I don’t see how one more Cookie is gonna make a difference.” Licorice Cookie looked at the mountains of rubble ahead of them and nodded in agreement. Red Velvet looked over at the two siblings and decided to offer his help.

“Vampire Cookie please, Alchemist is right, we have to work together if we’re gonna keep those Cookies from stealing anything from the castle.” Vampire yawned loudly and swished his drink, “Maaaaybe I could help…. Under the right conditions but…. Y’know I’m just not feeling… Motivated…” Alchemist Cookie groaned loudly. “Vamps, if you help us clear this out… I’ll… I’ll…” Vampire sat bolt upright with a lopsided grin, “You’ll let Sparkling Cookie use your grapes to make me some good quality juice?” He suggested. Alchemist Cookie’s jaw dropped, “What? B…But, I need those for a health potion!” “You want my help or not?” Vampire Cookie said, giving his sister a toothy grin and cocking his head to one side. “Yes but… I’m not giving up my good grapes, ok! Look, it’ll take all of a minute! If you help us I’ll… I’ll write a signed promise to leave you alone for the entire day, Ok?” Vampire Cookie tapped his chin in thought. “Hemmmm… Gotta say a no-nagging agreement sounds pretty sweet, but I don’t think one day will be enough.”

“One day is all my sanity can handle,” Alchemist Cookie hissed through gritted teeth. “Uh… I dunno. How about three days?” Vampire replied. “A day and a half!” Alchemist shot back with her arms crossed over her chest. “Ok, one day of you not nagging, yelling, or name calling. Aaaaaaaaaaand you have to spend this afternoon with me at Sparkling’s Juice Bar, instead of staying holed up in your little experiment room,” Vampire said with a chuckle. “WHAT? NO WAY! I’d rather die!” Alchemist Cookie screamed. “You’d rather die than spend time with your big brother? Aw, that’s cold little sis…” Vampire Cookie said, looking away. “What? No! That’s not what I meant!”

“Naw, naw I get it. You being a successful Alchemist is more important than your big brother’s feelings,” Vampire Cookie said, sticking his bottom lip out and letting it quiver slightly. “Vamps, no I…” Alchemist Cookie looked around, praying that their spat had gone unnoticed by the other Cookies. It hadn’t, everyone was looking at them, even Chiffon seemed to be watching, wondering how she would react to Vampire’s accusation. She turned back to her brother who was putting on a very good woe-is-me performance, he seemed to even be conjuring up some fake tears. At least… She hoped they were fake. The accusation did have a ring of truth to it. Whether he’d meant to humiliate her into accepting his terms or guilt her into it, either way it was working. She sighed in defeat and accepted her fate. “Ok, fine, I’ll do it but only if you help us clear out this mess!” Alchemist Cookie shouted pointing at the pile of rubble leading up to the Castle. Vampire Cookie shut one eye and looked at her with a smile on his face, cocking his head to one side playfully. They were both silent for a moment before Alchemist Cookie inhaled slowly through her nose and said through gritted teeth.

“Please…”

Vampire Cookie placed his juice glass down and stood up. “Gimme two ticks,” he said with a smirk. The next few seconds were hard to describe as the Cookies didn’t register what was happening. Other than a gust of air, a blur of color, rocks and brambles flying everywhere. By the time the group had gotten their bearings about them, they looked to see not just a pathway, but the entirety of the space in front of the Castle had been cleared out, except for one large sugar boulder that blocked the entryway Vampire Cookie was standing in front of. He placed his hands beneath the rock that was over five times his size. And effortlessly lifted it into the air, as if he were picking up a pebble. He tossed it aside, landing well out of the way and shattering as it hit the ground. He turned to the group of speechless desserts as he dusted his hands off. “There, done!” He said with a proud smile. The Cookies stared at him wide-eyed and mouths agape. “How… How…. How? How? How did you do that?” Red Velvet exclaimed in disbelief. “Choco Werehound Brute probably wouldn't be able to lift that rock, much less a tiny Cookie.” Schwarzwälder said. Vampire Cookie flexed one of his arms, “Vampire super strength and super speed. It’s a gift.”

“That. Was. AMAZING!” Herb Cookie shouted. “You’re like a real live super hero!” Onion Cookie cheered running up to Vampire Cookie. Vampire chuckled. “Aw, it was nothing, right sis?” he said walking up to Alchemist Cookie with his lopsided smirk that she hated so much. Her fists shook at her sides, oh how she wanted to answer with some sarcastic comeback, but due to the deal they had made she was stuck being nice to him for the rest of the day. So her answer was a half-hearted, “Thanks…” Vampire Cookie kissed her forehead as he walked by, “No problem, baby sister.” And with that, he went on his merry way, humming happily to himself. Looking forward to enjoying the rest of his day lazing about without his sister’s nagging. The group stood in silence for a moment. “Wow, I had no idea your brother could…” Sparkling Cookie began. Alchemist held up her hand, “Don’t…” she said flatly. “Please, don’t.”

A crash sounded from inside the Castle. “No time to waste, let’s go!” Red Velvet Cookie shouted, running to the front with Licorice and Poison Mushroom right behind him.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Oh my gosh, Chili Pepper just grab him already!”

“I’m trying! Why can’t you use your magic or something?!”

“He’s moving too fast for me to lock on a spell! I need you to slow him down!”

“Just leave meow alone!” Bat-Cat shouted, narrowly dodging another of Wizard Cookie’s lightning attacks. His wings felt heavy, his strength was starting to wane, he knew he couldn’t keep this up forever, but he hadn’t been able to find another way out. He managed to stay just barely out of the two Cookies' reach for some time but he couldn’t fly forever. At one point he considered giving up and handing over the gem of his collar. But he decided against it. It wasn’t theirs. That crown wasn’t theirs either. The nerve of them to break into their home and steal from them. The home they’d spent so much time, so much jam, sweat, and tears in building. The paradise they’d yearned for their entire lives. This Castle and that crown were a piece of that paradise. And the thought of anyone trying to take it away from them made Bat-Cat’s blood boil. He decided at that moment to stop playing defensive and go on the offense. He let out his claws and flew towards one of the Cookies as fast as his tiny wings could carry him. “I got him! I got him!” Chili Pepper Cookie shouted trying to grab for Bat-Cat as he flew past, all she got were three small scratches on her arm as he narrowly escaped her grasp. She yelled out in shock and pain and held her injured arm. She looked down at the tiny cracks in her dough, drops of red pooled from the injury.

“All right, enough is enough!” She shouted. “HEY!” A new voice shouted. Wizard and Chili Pepper froze as they realized three Cookies had appeared in the room. “Meowster!” Bat-Cat shouted, recognizing one of them as his Master. He flew towards his friends… But he never made it into the safety of his Master’s arms. He let out an ear-splitting screech as his side exploded in pain. He dropped like a rock and hit the floor. He slowly opened his eyes, and almost passed out when he saw what had happened. His wing was now frozen to the floor, held in place by one of Chili Pepper’s daggers. A small pool of blood had already begun to form under his injured wing. Licorice Cookie wanted to throw up. Seeing his precious pet pinned to the ground with his wing impaled. The whole ordeal took all of half a second. He was in the air one second and stuck to the ground the next. Chili Pepper could throw a dagger with that much speed and accuracy? How fast was she? “What do we do now?” Wizard Cookie asked, clutching the crown to his chest. “Like I always say, when you can’t take the treasure, take the treasure chest,” Chili Pepper replied. “Huh?” Wizard said dumbly. “GRAB THE CAT YOU MORON!” Chili Pepper Cookie shouted.

Licorice Cookie was already running to his pet with his arms outstretched. He was so focused on rescuing his friend that he didn’t hear Wizard Cookie shout, “Lightning Strike!” He didn’t recognize it as a spell until the lightning bolt that would have reduced him to crumbs flashed beside him. The reason it didn’t meet its mark was because one of the Licorice Creatures he’d found had pushed him out of the way just in the nick of time. The other two did the same with Red Velvet and Poison Mushroom, who were now on the ground and trying to get their bearings about them. They’d all just survived a near-death experience, but… Bat-Cat and the two Cookies were nowhere to be found. Chili Pepper had grabbed up the injured cat during the confusion and the two had made their escape. Licorice Cookie was snapped back to reality when he heard Bat-Cat calling out for him down the hallway. “Meowster! Help!”

“Bat-Cat!” Licorice Cookie shouted. Grabbing his scythe, he sped down the hall, ignoring his friends’ cries of “Licorice Cookie, wait!” He couldn’t wait. He had to get Bat-Cat back, he had to make those Cookies pay for injuring his beloved pet. He could see them at the end of the hallway, Chili Pepper clutching the squirming cat close to her and yelling at Wizard Cookie. Bat-Cat’s eyes were wide with fear and tears fell down his face from the pain of his injured wing. “Bat-Cat! Hang on buddy, I’m coming!” Licorice Cookie shouted. “Stop right there!” Another voice shouted from behind Chili Pepper and Wizard Cookie. Several Cookies had gathered outside the Castle, some of them holding weapons like a rope whip or an Alchemy potion. “We’ve got company,” Chili Pepper said. She looked at her partner, who gave her a nod. Chili Pepper suddenly turned to Licorice and tossed several crimson colored daggers. Licorice barely managed to dodge them all. In fact, one would have hit him square in the face, had it not been for the Licorice Creatures once again. One jumped in front of him and blocked the attack with a small bone dagger of his own.

At the same time, Wizard Cookie unleashed a devastating lightning attack on the small group of Cookies outside. The blast knocked them all back, clearing the way for the two Cookies' exit. As they ran out of the Castle, Wizard Cookie raised his Candy Wand once more and shouted, “Abra-Cookie-Cadabra! Smokescreen spell!” An explosion of smoke engulfed the Castle grounds. Licorice Cookie could hear Cookies crying out in pain, coughing from the smoke, yelling out names trying to find their friends or family in the haze. But he also heard Bat-Cat, faintly calling out for him. So without a second’s hesitation he rushed outside into the wall of smoke. It stung his eyes and burned his lungs but he ran in what he thought was the direction he’d heard Bat-Cat call for him. The smoke blinded him, he was disoriented from the sounds around him.

Onion Cookie crying for her mother. Vampire Cookie calling out for his sister. Sparkling’s panicked voice exclaiming that Herb had been injured. Cookies coughing and crying out in pain. Licorice Cookie tried to listen for Bat-Cat’s voice among the chaos but he couldn’t hear it anymore. So he added his own voice to the disharmony of cries. He called out his name as he stumbled through the smog. His lungs felt heavy, his eyes burned, tears rolled down his face as his voice gave out and dissolved into a fit of hacking coughs that brought him to his knees. He finally collapsed to the ground, shaking and sobbing. Bat-Cat was gone… Forever.

That’s how his friends found him when the smoke finally settled enough to see. Laying on the ground and sobbing into his arms. “Licorice Cookie are you ok?” Red Velvet asked, bending down and placing his Cake hand on the Dark Wizard’s back. “He’s gone,” Licorice Cookie sobbed, “He’s gone…” was all he said. Red Velvet pulled him to his feet. Poison Mushroom Cookie hugged him. Chiffon and the Licorice Creatures stood off to one side looking at one another. What could they do? Licorice Cookie hiccuped and wiped his eyes on the sleeves of his robes. He looked around at the destruction the thieves had caused. The Sugar Gnomes were running this way and that with medical supplies trying to patch up the injured Cookies. Onion Cookie clung to her mother, sobbing uncontrollably as Blackberry tried to both comfort her and tend to Adventurer Cookie's wounds. Herb held his oozing arm and cried out in pain when Sparkling Cookie touched him… Anywhere. Vampire Cookie cradled an unconscious Alchemist Cookie in his arms and sobbed. A stream of red jam oozed down her face like a river and stained her robes. Her purple hair sticking to her face. She was breathing at least, but large cracks could be seen beneath the tears in her clothes.

Licorice Cookie’s eyes widened in terror when a thought came to him. If they were willing to do this to other Cookies. What are they going to do to Bat-Cat? His precious pet had already been injured by those monsters. The memory of him laying on the floor with a dagger stuck through his wing summoned another wave of sobs from Licorice Cookie. “I couldn’t stop them… I couldn’t save him! It’s my fault! It’s all my fault! I shouldn’t have sent him in there alone! I shouldn’t have been so angry with him! I…I!” Red Velvet placed his hand on his shoulder. “Licorice Cookie, listen to me, we’re going to get him back. I promise,” He said with a nod and a determined look in his eye. “Yeah! No one messes with our friends and gets away with it!” Poison Mushroom Cookie cheered, furring his brow. Licorice Cookie looked up at Red Velvet with a tear-stained face, “H-how?” He hiccuped. Red Velvet didn’t know how to answer that. “Licorice Cookie! Are you ok?!?” Schwarzwälder’s booming voice shouted as he ran up to the trio. “NO! Those Cookies took Bat-Cat!” Licorice replied, pointing in the direction… He thought they’d went. “WHAT!?!” Schwarzwälder shouted. “Bat-Cat’s been Cat-napped!” Charlie said, running over to the group. “Oh me, oh my, what will we doopity-doo?” he exclaimed.

Schwarzwälder narrowed his eyes and stuck his nose up in the air. Chiffon noticed and lowered his to the ground and began sniffing. None of the Cookies noticed the two, they were still trying to comfort Licorice Cookie. The two wandered around, searching for a scent, then Chiffon found something on the ground and barked to alert Schwarzwälder. He ran over and smiled when he saw what Chiffon had discovered. “HEY GUYS! We found something!” he shouted. The Cookies looked up, Red Velvet ran over to them. On the ground was a small red splatter. Could be jam. That made sense, there was probably jam all over the ground from the Cookies' injuries. But when Red Velvet knelled down and sniffed the stain with his own heightened smell, he noticed something strange. “What is it, Red Velvet Cookie?” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked. “It looks like jam but… It doesn't smell like jam. Jam has a sweet scent, this smells more… Metallic.”

“Blood,” Licorice Cookie breathed. “It’s blood! It must be Bat-Cat’s!” He shouted running up to meet them and see the spot for himself. “His wing was injured when they Cat-napped him!” Schwarzwälder looked up ahead, “There's a whole trail of it!” “That must be the way they went!” Licorice Cookie exclaimed, hope shining in his eyes once again. “Looks like they’re headed for the Land of Little Big Dreams,” Sparkling Cookie said, looking in the direction Licorice was pointing. “Well what are we waiting for? Let’s go save Bat-Cat!” Poison Mushroom Cookie exclaimed, throwing his hands up in the air excitedly. “Guys wait,” Red Velvet Cookie said, turning to the Sugar Gnomes. “Charlie, Davis, Olaf. Do you guys think you can tend to the injured Cookies while we go rescue Bat-Cat?” Charlie smiled and saluted with a proud twinkle in his eye, “Sure can doopity-doo! Mr. Red Velvet Cookie sir!” “I’ll see if I have enough healing juice for everyone,” Sparkling Cookie said with a smile. “My little sis can probably make some healing potions… Once she wakes up,” Vampire Cookie said, gently wiping Alchemist Cookie’s face clean with his cape. “All right then,” Red Velvet said with a nod, “Choco Werehound Brute, Chiffon, you two lead the way! Let’s go save our friend!” Schwarzwälder and Chiffon howled as they charged forward into the forest, with the Cookies close behind.

“Hang on, buddy! I’m coming for you!” Licorice Cookie called into the unknown.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~Meanwhile, in the forest~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

A Cookie was happily skipping along the forest trail. Admiring every tree, flower, and blade of grass she passed. She loved springtime, the colors were so vibrant and the smells were so sweet. She gasped in delight as a butterfly flew into her range of vision. She watched the beautiful delicate creature, as it seemed to dance in the air. She couldn’t help but join in, reaching her arms out to allow her long pink sleeves to spread out like wings of her own. Spinning around and laughing the pink-clad Cookie followed the tiny creature until it landed on a flower bush. Sitting on a bright blue flower, matching the color of its wings. She watched it spellbound as it drank from the flower. She found the flowers were not only pretty and sweet-smelling, but also had flexible yet strong stems. Perfect for making a flower crown with. So she decided to do just that. The butterfly flew away into the bright blue sky and she waved bye-bye to the little creature as it departed.

While she was weaving the flower stems together she heard a sound that made her pause. She looked up to see two Cookies running down the forest trail, both holding something in their hands and running like there was a Witch chasing them. They were both yelling at one another. The taller one held what looked like a cat, and the shorter one was carrying something gold and shiny. She couldn’t get a very good look at it, they were gone as quickly as they came. She could still hear the echoes of their arguing fading away. The puzzled Cookie shook her head. She never understood Cookies like that. Always in a rush, never taking the time to stop and admire the beauty and wonder around them. She was half-way through her flower crown when she heard another noise.

A small creature appeared from the bushes. It was made of custard and covered in bandages with strange symbols on them. It was peeking out from behind the bush at her and making strange noises. She’d never seen a creature like this before. She was curious. “Hello, little guy,” she said softly, trying not to frighten the little creature. “Are you lost?” The Custard creature made a soft noise, she giggled at its funny walk. “Why are you wearing those bandages? Are you hurt? Here, don’t be afraid. I can help you,” she said, holding up her rod. “I know healing magic. I can make you feel better.” The creature seemed to understand her and slowly tottled towards her with its arms outstretched. “That’s it, just come a little closer. Everything’s ok,” she said, holding out her hand. The creature chuckled under its breath.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~Meanwhile, not very far from there~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Pomegranate Cookie?”

The tall Cookie in White Chocolate armor called out for his companion. But no response. Even if she had heard him, she likely wouldn’t answer. “Probably off chasing butterflies again knowing her,” he said to himself, rolling his crimson eye. The other one had been sealed shut with a scar over it. A constant reminder of his final battle before leaving his homeland. At his side he carried a sword that was glowing with dark power, of course to anyone else, its whispers would have taken over their mind and driven them insane. But not him. He’d wielded the cursed blade for years, and he’d been trained by one of his father’s close friends to control its power. So while others would bend to the will of the sword, it bent to his. He brushed a piece of his long black hair out of his face and sighed.

He finally heard a familiar giggle. He sighed in relief as he caught sight of her near some flower bushes. But his breath caught in his throat when he realized what she was doing. He recognized that tiny creature. He drew his sword and rushed to her, “Pomegranate Cookie! Stop!” She looked up, but it was too late. The creature realized it had been found by another who knew of its purpose, so it self-destructed and exploded. Scattering sticky cream and covering Pomegranate Cookie. She yelled out in surprise and the warrior stopped in his tracks, but only for a moment. He rushed to her and knelt beside her. “Are you alright? Are you injured?” It took her a second to realize what had happened. “N… No. But… I…. I can’t move!” She realized she was trapped by the sticky ooze, “I… I thought it was hurt, I-I was just trying to help.”

“Hey, hey. It’s ok,” he said calmly, realizing she was on the verge of tears. “Let's get you out of this.” “Um… Dark Choco Cookie…” She said looking off. Dark Choco Cookie followed her gaze, several creatures like the first were appearing from the depths of the forest and heading right for them. Several small ones and a Custard Orge, arms outstretched, gurgling. He looked back at his companion. Her eyes were wide with fright. She was frozen in place so she couldn’t help him, but he couldn’t let those monsters hurt her. He stepped in front of her and brandished his sword. The red glow of the Strawberry Jam Sword served as a warning to the monsters. A few faltered from Dark Choco Cookie’s show of intimidation, but advanced nonetheless. He gripped his blade tightly and whispered under his breath. “Ancestors, give me strength,” before letting out a battle cry and charging forward.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~Back with Red Velvet and Co.~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Chiffon sniffed at the ground and barked, wagging his tail and jumping up and down. The three Cookies were right behind him, Licorice at the front as he was the most eager of them to find those Cookies and get his Bat-Cat back. “Oh, I hope we can find him before it's too late!” He whimpered. “We will Licorice Cookie, I promise,” Red Velvet said with a smile. His sword swinging at his side. Licorice Cookie clutched his scythe close, frantically looking around for monsters. Poison Mushroom Cookie just followed happily and carefree, humming to himself. “This way! Choco Werehound Brute smell spicy Cookie and magic Cookie this way!” Schwarzwälder shouted. Licorice Cookie sighed. “Why would they take him anyway? What could those awful Cookies want with my precious Bat-Cat?” The Licorice Creatures squeaked something that sounded like an attempt to comfort him. “I remember the red-haired one saying something about treasure,” Red Velvet said. “So what? They already had the crown, why take Bat-Cat too?” Licorice Cookie cried. “I’m not….”

Raaaaaaaaaaaarrrrrrr!

Licorice Cookie froze, “Did you guys hear that?” “M-m-monsters,” Poison Mushroom Cookie whimpered, hiding behind Licorice Cookie. The Licorice Creatures brandished their tiny Bone Daggers and looked around in search of the danger. “It sounded like it came from up ahead,” Red Velvet Cookie said.

“Meet your end!”

“Wait… that doesn’t sound like a monster…. That sounded like…” Red Velvet said.

“Dark Choco Cookie, look out!”

“Cookies!” Poison Mushroom Cookie exclaimed, running towards the sound. “Poison Mushroom Cookie, wait! It’s not safe!” Licorice Cookie shouted running after the small Cookie. The trio followed the sounds of battle until they came to a small slope, at the bottom they could see a Cookie locked in battle with several of the Custard Creatures. Another Cookie was frozen in place by Custard Cream, watching the battle with wide eyes. “There’s so many of them,” Licorice Cookie said. “He’s clearly outnumbered… There’s no way he…” Licorice Cookie was stunned into silence when he saw the Cookie’s sword glow a bright red. Crimson colored lightning bolts slashed through the monsters wherever he swung. The sword seemed to be summoning the magical bolts, so the Cookie didn’t even have to make contact to do damage, which meant he could stay out of range of the spray when they exploded. “Wait, was that… Magic?” Red Velvet Cookie breathed, turning to Licorice Cookie. “Why yes, Dark Magic in fact! His sword must be enchanted! Incredible. He must be a top-notch swordfighter, only the best warriors can wield a weapon granted with Dark Magic.”

Despite being outnumbered, the Cookie seemed to be holding his own against the creatures. His movements were fluid, almost like a dance as he swung his sword. Lightning crackled and flashed as the blade cut through the air. The monsters were cut down left and right, but they still kept coming. He would jump back every now and again to keep distance between him and the monsters. Every so often he would turn back towards the trapped Cookie, to ensure none had gotten any closer to her. He had to keep the monsters focused on him. Some appeared from behind, some dropped down from nearby trees and got a little too close for comfort before exploding. The ground was littered with foul sticky cream, and there was less and less space for him to plant his footing without getting stuck. Then, the Custard Orge roared and charged him.

Dark Choco Cookie didn’t have time to counter-attack, so he jumped out of its way, but lost his footing and tumbled, his sword flying out of his hand, and one of his arms landing in a pile of sticky Custard Cream. Pomegranate Cookie gasped, “Dark Choco Cookie, no!” The monster turned towards her, she froze. The monster took a step towards her, then another, then broke into a run with a roar. She shut her eyes and turned her head. Dark Choco Cookie tried to pull his arm free but to no avail. He tried to reach for his sword but it was too far out of his reach, the monster grew closer and closer to Pomegranate Cookie, when suddenly.

“Sic ‘em Chiffon!” A voice shouted. “Arf! Arf! Arf!” The monster was suddenly knocked back by a pupcake running into it. It wasn’t enough to knock it down, but it was enough to confuse it. The Cake Hound jumped in front of Pomegranate Cookie and growled, bearing his tiny sharp teeth. “Attaboy, Chiffon!” Red Velvet Cookie shouted as he dove into battle. Several of the smaller monsters were ripped apart by his Crimson Hand, a few more were split in half by his sword. He jumped out of the way of the spray and ducked under the Orge’s swing. A few monsters tried to close in on him and self-destruct, but he shielded himself with his Cake arm, and shook it off. “Heeeeeeey, that’s a pretty cool trick,” Poison Mushroom Cookie said. The monsters looked at him. “I can do that too! See?” he said pulling out one of his explosive Shroomies and tossing it, it exploded upon impact and four of the creatures were disposed of. Red Velvet blocked an attack from the Ogre with his sword, he dug his heels into the dirt as he was pushed back. “Poison Mushroom Cookie, keep her safe!” He shouted nodding to Pomegranate Cookie. “Don’t let them get too close! Chiffon, you know what to do!” Chiffon barked and ran to help Dark Choco Cookie get free from the Cream. Poison Mushroom Cookie took out a few more Shroomies and gave Pomegranate a reassuring smile. She smiled back.

Red Velvet tried to lower his sword so he could get in a swing with his claw but the monster knocked him back as he lost his footing. He hit the ground hard. He looked up to see the monster holding a large rock over its head. He rolled to the side before the creature could bring it down on him. It crumbled as it hit the ground. The Custard Orge roared in anger over the Cookie escaping his attack. Red Velvet quickly got to his feet and curled his hand into a claw. He was breathing heavily and trying to figure out where the best place to focus his attack was. Dark Choco Cookie had been freed and he’d retrieved his sword, he rushed towards the monster while it had his back turned to him. Then he noticed something. “HEY! On your left!” The warning gave Red Velvet enough time to evade an attack from a Custard Creature that had appeared from somewhere… This one was different. It was round, and had one eye, a waffle horn atop its head, and waffle wings, a few more appeared from the air.

Red Velvet backed up and readied his sword for the next strike. The Waffle Wing dove, Dark Choco Cookie slashed through the Orge, Red Velvet Cookie blocked the attack, the Orge roared, Red Velvet blocked two more attacks but was hit by the third and fell back. Dark Choco’s attack wasn’t enough to take the monster down, so he got hit by a side blow and got the wind knocked out of him. The flying Custard Monsters prepared to dive bomb Red Velvet and land the final blow. The Orge roared and rushed Dark Choco while he was still recovering from the first blow. But before any of them hit their mark, the three Waffle Wings were intercepted by the three Licorice Creatures, who slashed their eyes with Bone Daggers. The creatures hissed in pain and dissipated.

“Shadowbolt Strike!” A voice shouted, summoning dark purple lightning bolts, which brought the Custard Orge to its knees. Licorice Cookie ran up to the Orge, he jumped, held his scythe high and swung, making a clean cut through the monster’s throat. He landed with expert skill as the monster dropped to the ground and dissolved into a puddle of Cream. The remaining monsters froze, and then ran away with a cry of fear. The Cookies all breathed heavily, watching and waiting to see if any more monsters would appear. They didn’t. “We did it!” Poison Mushroom Cookie cheered. “Nice work, Licorice Cookie!” Schwarzwälder cheered walking up to the group. “No…. Pro…. Blem….” the Dark Wizard said in between gasps. “Thanks kid,” Dark Choco Cookie said walking up to Red Velvet. “I owe you one. But you need to work on your swordsmanship, your form is off,” he laughed. Red Velvet chuckled, “Yeah, I guess so.” Dark Choco Cookie smiled. “But I suppose it helps to have a natural weapon in battle as well,” he said, eyeing Red Velvet’s Cake arm. Red Velvet opened and closed his Cake hand. “Yeah…. That’s a long story.”

“Hahahahahaha, stop, puppy! That tickles!” Pomegranate Cookie laughed as Chiffon licked the Custard Cream off her face. “Oh yeah, I almost forgot,” Red Velvet said, running up to her. “Here, let me help get you out of that,” he said, bending down to help Chiffon clean off the Cream. “Wait, won’t you get stuck too?” She said, “Not if I use my Cake arm,” Red Velvet said, waving his Cake hand. This was her first time noticing that, so naturally she had a million questions. All he could tell her was that he just woke up with it like that, and that was all he knew. Once the two had her free, Red Velvet helped her to her feet. “My name’s Red Velvet Cookie, and these are my friends, Poison Mushroom and Licorice Cookie.”

“Hi new friend!” Poison Mushroom Cookie said with a happy smile. “Hey,” Licorice said, still out of breath from the fight. “Phew, I used up way too much Mana for that one. Where are my Mana Jellies?” He said digging into the pockets of his robes and pulling out a dark blue jelly. “Arf! Arf! Arf!” Red Velvet chuckled, “And that’s Chiffon. And Licorice Cookie’s Cake is Schwarzw-” “CHOCO WEREHOUND BRUTE!” Schwarzwälder shouted, cutting Red Velvet Cookie off. Licorice Cookie rolled his eyes, “He likes to be called by his species name.” “It’s a pleasure to meet you all,” Pomegranate Cookie said with a smile, “Thank you for helping us with those monsters. I thought for sure we were goners for a second there. Right, Dark Choco Cookie?” She paused. He was staring down at something on the ground. “Dark Choco Cookie?” She said walking up to him. He stabbed the thing with his sword and lifted it to his face. It was one of the bandages the Custard Monsters wore, it was covered in cream and the marking had faded slightly. But they were still legible enough to be recognized. “Cremlins…” He said softly. “What?” Pomegranate said, tilting her head in confusion. “If they’ve returned, then that means the curse has as well,” he replied solemnly. “Curse? What curse?” Red Velvet Cookie said, raising an eyebrow. “Um, hello? Excuse me, three totally clueless Cookies over here who would like to know what you’re talking about,” Licorice Cookie said.

Dark Choco Cookie snapped out of his self-induced trance and turned to the three Cookies. He looked down, his eyes glazing over, staring into memories he’d avoided remembering for years. He took a deep breath to steady himself and replied in a grave voice, “The Somnus Aeternus Curse. The curse behind the destruction of the Dark Flour War. The Five Ancient Heroes sacrificed everything to seal that curse away, but if these monsters have returned to Earthbread, then so has that curse.” “What?” Red Velvet said, “But my friends and I have been fighting those things for weeks!” “Yeah, we just thought they’d always been there,” Licorice Cookie added. Dark Choco Cookie shook his head, “They appeared shortly before the curse took over. They’re servants to the curse’s creator, these bandages are harmless but the cursed ones can leave a Cookie defenseless.”

“What exactly does this curse do?” Licorice Cookie asked. “It strips a Cookie of their autonomy and free will, making them mindless servants to its creator. A Cookie known as Bitter Truth Cookie, the Blind King. He brainwashes Cookies into becoming mindless zombies by wrapping bandages like these around their eyes. But those glow, these don’t, so these are just to mark his creations with.” He said, holding up the soggy bandage. “And… You said those monsters are called…. Cremlins?” Red Velvet asked. Dark Choco Cookie nodded, “They are the same monsters that laid my kingdom to waste all those years ago,” he said softly. His eyes looking at something only he could see, into a past he wished he could forget. Poison Mushroom Cookie gasped loudly. “You have a kingdom? We have a kingdom too! We’re building it together to make a home for all Cookies to live together and be happy!” He said, throwing his hands in the air. Dark Choco Cookie snapped out of his spiral once he realized something. He chuckled and placed his hand to his forehead, “Oh, goodness. Where are my manners? I haven’t even introduced myself… I’m…”

He drew his sword and planted it into the ground next to him, his cape and hair flew behind him as he turned his head, planting a foot atop a nearby rock, he said with a bold flair, “Prince Dark Choco Cookie of the Dark Cacao Kingdom! Hero and descendant of one of the Five Ancient Heroes!”

“Wow! You’re a prince? That’s so cool!” Red Velvet Cookie shouted. “There’s no wind… How is his cape doing that?” Licorice Cookie questioned. (If he’d been paying attention to Pomegranate Cookie and not Dark Choco he would have noticed her standing a little ways off with a small handheld fan. Which she quickly turned off and hid behind her back.) “I’m on a quest!” Dark Choco Cookie continued. “I’m searching for my father, Dark Cacao Cookie, leader of our kingdom. You three wouldn’t happen to know anything of his whereabouts would you?” he asked. The trio of Cookies looked at one another. Even Chiffon tilted his head to one side with a questioning, “Arroo?” Red Velvet shook his head, “Sorry, no.” “I’m pretty sure I would have remembered meeting one of the Five Ancient Heroes everyone keeps talking about,” Licorice Cookie added. “We only escaped from the scary Witch a couple of weeks ago,” Poison Mushroom Cookie added. “You three are Ovenbaked Cookies then?” Pomegranate Cookie said, “That must of been really scary… I’ve only heard stories of those monsters but… What I’ve heard is enough to give me nightmares.”

“This is my companion, Pomegranate Cookie,” Dark Choco Cookie said nodding to the pink-clad Cookie. “She’s been helping me search for my father. We heard rumors that the ruins of a kingdom built by the Five Ancient Heroes could be found somewhere around here. I was hoping they might hold some clue to where he disappeared to after the Dark Flour War,” he explained. “Those ruins are the kingdom we now call home! We’re fixing it up with the help of the Sugar Gnomes!” Red Velvet Cookie said. “But some mean Cookies broke into the Castle and took a crown that didn’t belong to them,” Poison Mushroom Cookie said. “AND THEY TOOK BAT-CAT!” Licorice Cookie wailed. “Who’s… Bat-Cat?” Pomegranate Cookie asked. “Licorice Cookie’s and Choco Werehound Brute’s friend. Stealing Cookies took him into the forest, so we’re running after them to get him back!” Schwarzwälder said. “Wait… How many Cookies were there?” Pomegranate Cookie asked. “Two… Why?” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked. “I saw a couple of Cookies run by just before the Cremlins attacked us. I think I remember seeing that crown you were talking about… And one of them looked like it was carrying a cat.” Licorice Cookie’s eyes widened, “Really? That had to be them? Which way did they go?” He said in one breath. “I saw them go deeper into the woods that way,” she replied pointing off down the trail with her rod. “Great! Nice meeting you guys, c’mon Schwarzwälder, Licastor, Liciam, Licorina, let’s go!” Licorice Cookie said, taking off down the trail without another word. Schwarzwälder and the Licorice Creatures followed after. Dark Choco Cookie watched them leave. “Looks like we’re both searching for someone. Hemmm.”

“What cha thinking about Dark Choco Cookie?” Pomegranate Cookie asked, she knew him well enough to recognize that look. She knew what he was thinking. “Well, as a hero it is my duty to help those in need. You guys need help getting your friend back, so if you would like, I would be honored to join you in your quest!” He said, placing his hand to his chest. “Really?” Poison Mushroom Cookie said. “Of course! Besides, those Cookies have committed the crime of thievery! On my honor as a Dark Cacao warrior, I swear I shall not rest until justice is properly served and these Cookies have been punished!” Dark Choco Cookie exclaimed, holding his sword to the light and allowing it to catch the gem of his sword. Making it gleam with a heroic sparkle. “And I can help too!” Pomegranate Cookie said. “If we lose the trail, I can use my magic mirror to see where they’ve taken him!” She said holding up a pink mirror she’d been hiding in her robes. “She’s also an excellent healer, her magic is what’s gotten me through many a tough battle,” Dark Choco Cookie said, smiling proudly at his companion. Pomegranate Cookie’s cheeks turned as pink as her robes.

“That would be great! These Cookies are really tough, so we could use all the help we could get,” Red Velvet Cookie said. “And hey, I just thought of something. If you’re helping us get Bat-Cat back, maybe we can help you find your dad, Dark Choco Cookie. Like you said, there may be something back at the kingdom that could give us an idea where he’d be.” Dark Choco Cookie smiled, “I would much appreciate any assistance you can offer. If the curse truly has returned, then all of Earthbread is in need of his strength.” Dark Choco Cookie said, lowering his head. He quickly raised it again, looking off down the forest trail. “So we have no time to waste, Cookies, onward!” He shouted, pointing his sword and charging forward down the trail, with his white cape flowing behind him like a battle flag. Pomegranate Cookie shook her head. “In case you haven’t noticed, he’s got a bit of a flair for the dramatic,” she whispered to Red Velvet. “I noticed,” he chuckled, “I think he’s neat.”

Pomegranate placed her hand over her mouth and chuckled softly. “Let’s see if you can keep up with him,” she said, breaking into a run. “Hey! Wait up!” Red Velvet Cookie laughed, sprinting after her. Poison Mushroom Cookie blinked, realized his friends were running ahead and smiled, “Hey! Are we having a race? Shroomy’s gonna win!” he shouted, happily running after them.

Deep into the unknown.

Chapter Text

Licorice Cookie was determined. No. He was DESPERATE to get Bat-Cat back. He ran through all the possible scenarios he might face. All the impossible things he may have to do, and he realized… He was willing to do them all. He was willing to do ANYTHING to get his buddy back. His mind wandered from the first time his precious pet had opened his eyes (Licorice Cookie was the first thing he saw), to the first time he learned to fly, to this morning. Their argument. Him yelling at Bat-Cat and blaming him for his failure that morning. It seemed like such a small and insignificant thing now. It wasn’t his fault. Oh, why was he so mean to him? He loved his precious pet more than life itself. He couldn’t imagine the thought of sleeping without his tiny body curled up next to him in bed. How he would get out of his slumps of sorrow without his perky companion flying besides him?

Would he ever feel the wind of his wings as he flew next to him again? Would he ever hear his soft purring as he rubbed his hand through his soft fur? Would he ever have to fight back laughter and keep a straight face whenever he delivered one of his snarky comebacks that was so clever he just had to… He shook his head. No. He would. He would find Bat-Cat. No matter what it took.

“How much farther, Schwarzwälder?” Licorice Cookie asked. The Werehound responded by sticking his nose up in the air and smelling. “Hmmmm…. This way… Not sure how much farther…. Scent is getting weak.” Although the news was disheartening, Licorice Cookie refused to give up. He’d travel all of Earthbread if he had to. I’m gonna find you, Bat-Cat. I’m gonna save you, and make those Cookies pay! If it’s the last thing I ever do! I’m gonna… Licorice Cookie’s train of thought was interrupted by a sound. Schwarzwälder lifted his hammer and looked around. “WHO'S THERE?” He bellowed. “If it’s monsters, you better be ready to face my HAMMER!” Licorice Cookie heard the sound as well… But it didn’t sound like monsters. He looked behind him at the Licorice triplets. Normally at any sign of danger, they would be battle-ready as well. But they weren’t. Licastor was rocking back and forth on his feet. Liciam was looking off and rubbing his hands together nervously. And Licorina’s facial expression told Licorice Cookie that she’d much rather he be looking anywhere else right now. Licorice Cookie raised an eyebrow.

“I don’t think it was monsters, Schwarzwälder.” He heard the sound again. Not the growl of a monster, but the growl of a hungry creature’s stomach. Licorice knelt down to be closer to the triplets. “You three haven’t eaten today have you?” he asked, trying to keep from laughing at their embarrassed reaction. “Hey,” he chuckled, “It’s not a problem. Look, if you three are gonna be my minions—ok, ok, settle down. Yes, I mean it, I wouldn’t have said it if I didn’t! You three have on more than one occasion proven yourselves to be quite useful. Along with being loyal, brave, and skilled fighters. And if I’m going to be your Master then that means it’s my responsibility to take care of you. So you don’t have to hide being hungry or tired from me. I want you to let me know if there’s something wrong, you understand?” The trio nodded and squeaked happily. “You sure we have time, Licorice Cookie? Those Cookies are already far away now.” Schwarzwälder asked, walking up to the group. Licorice Cookie sighed.

He is right… But I can’t just let the triplets go hungry. He stood up and nodded, “Yes, I’m sure. We need to keep our strength up for just that reason. And… Besides that…” Licorice Cookie’s own stomach started to growl. “I… Haven’t eaten yet either…” That is the last time I go monster hunting before breakfast… Oh, curse my stubborn Wizard pride! I just couldn’t let Alchemist get a jumpstart. Licorice Cookie dug through his pockets in search of something edible. The triplets gathered around him excitedly with sparkling eyes. Licorice Cookie sighed. All I’ve got is my Mana Jellies. I suppose those could do as a last resort, but they’re not very filling, and I need them to recharge my Mana. Without them, I can’t use my Magic… And that could lead to a worse fate than starvation. He looked around. “We’re in a forest, surely we can find something we can eat! A Jellyberry bush, a mushroom patch, something!”

Schwarzwälder stuck his nose in the air and sniffed. “Food…” He mumbled, trying to find a scent. “Food… AH-HA!” He shouted, howling and running off. “Schwarzwälder! Wait up! You know we can’t run as fast as you!” Licorice Cookie shouted, running after the Werehound. “FOUND SOMETHING!” Schwarzwälder's voice echoed through the trees. “Oh, thank goodness…” Licorice Cookie sighed as he held his stomach. He was so worked up over losing Bat-Cat this morning that the full effects of hunger hadn't hit him until now. He didn’t care what Schwarzwälder had found. He needed food. Now. His stomach felt as if it was about to cave in on itself, and he was certain his Licorice Minions felt the same way. They found the Werehound sniffing a small pile of Jellies. He beamed proudly as he saw Licorice and his Minions approaching. “Um… What are those?” Licorice Cookie said, looking at the Jellies with an uncertain expression. “They’re Bear Jellies! Super tasty!” Schwarzwälder replied. Licorice Cookie looked over them again. “Uh… I don’t know, Schwarzwälder… Those Jellies look kinda… Iffy to me.”

“They’re not icky! Bear Jellies are super sweet! Cookies love ‘em!” Schwarzwälder replied. “Not icky… Iffy. Strange. The color doesn’t look right and the smell…. Now…. Don’t tell anyone I said this, but I will admit, my knowledge of the outside world is a bit limited due to only having so many books to read. But from what I have read, I’ve never seen a Bear Jelly like these before.” They were a mud brown color and the “mouths” of the Bear Jellies were oozing a thick dark brown substance. Schwarzwälder probably thought it was chocolate but Licorice Cookie wasn’t so sure. “Are… You sure they haven’t gone bad?” Licorice Cookie said with a raised eyebrow, looking up at the Werehound. Schwarzwälder rolled his eyes and shoved a Jelly into Licorice Cookie’s hands. “Oh, stop being such a picky eater and try it before you say you don’t like it. They not bad, see?” Schwarzwälder replied, tossing a Bear Jelly into his mouth, chewing loudly and dramatically swallowing to make his point. Licorice looked down at the Jelly in his hands. The Licorice Minions were looking at him with a “don’t do it” expression. They clearly shared their Master’s worries about the Jellies. But… He was really hungry.

Maybe it tastes better than it looks. He reasoned. It didn’t. He took one small bite off the ear, winced, and spit it out. “AH! EH! PTEWY! Yeah, um… Maybe to you, Schwarzwälder. But I think Cakes have stronger stomachs than Cookies.” Schwarzwälder shrugged, “Oh well, more for Choco Werehound Brute,” he said, scooping up a pile of Jellies and devouring them viscously. The triplets looked up at Licorice Cookie, “Eep? Eeep?” He shook his head. “No, trust me on this. They’ve gone bad,” he whispered to them. “We’ll just have to find something else…” Licorice Cookie paused when he heard a loud yawn. He looked back at Schwarzwälder, who was sitting down and rocking slightly, his eyes halfway open and his head nodding ever so slightly. “Schwarzwälder? Hey, are you ok, buddy?” He said running up to the Brute and grabbing his arm. “Feeling…. Sleepy… All of the sudden…” He yawned loudly and hit the ground before Licorice Cookie could react. Licorice and the Minions gasped. “Schwarzwälder? SCHWARZWÄLDER! Hey! Wake up!” He shouted, bending down and shaking him. The triplets ran up to their friend and tried to help Licorice Cookie wake him by pulling his ears and hair. But the Brute refused to stir. Licorice calmed down a bit when he realized that Schwarzwälder was breathing steadily and had a peaceful expression on his face. “Oh, it must of been those bad Bear Jellies.” he sighed, “Well, it doesn’t look like he’s poisoned at least. I guess we’ll just have to wait until he’s slept it off… Whatever ‘it’ is.” Licorice Cookie said, standing up. “Eeep, Eeeep, Errep?” Liciam squeaked. “Exactly, see kids, that’s why you always check your food’s expiration date,” Licorice Cookie replied.

“Heeeeeelp!”

Licorice Cookie turned, “Did you guys hear that?” Another voice called, “Nooooo! Get away scaaary monsters!” Licastor squeaked in Licorice Language something along the lines of, “Sounds like someone’s in trouble.” His sister shuddered and squeaked, “Could it be more Cremlins?” “I don’t know,” Licorice Cookie replied. He sighed and looked at the sleeping Schwarzwälder then back at his Minions. “With Schwarzwälder out of it right now, that leaves just the four of us.” “Heeeelp! Soooomebody saaave us!” Licorice looked in the direction of the shout then back to his Minions, “Do you think you can do it?” Licastor pointed at Schwarzwälder and replied, “We’d still be more help than him right now!” In Licorice Language. Licorice Cookie smiled and swung his scythe over his shoulder, “Alright then… Let’s go!”

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A small group of Cake Hounds were barking at one another. A couple of Cake Wolves stepped forward to break up the bickering and divided the pile of Bear Jellies among them. The pupcakes seemed satisfied by their share of the Jellies and dove into their respective piles with their tails wagging. The Cake Wolves nodded and began to eat their share as well. It was strange to find so many on the ground, usually one or two the Jelly Bears might have dropped. One young Cake Wolf put forth the theory that their friends had left these here on purpose as a gift for them. It made sense. After all they were right in the open where any Cake could be able to find them, on their patrol path no less. The oldest Cake Wolf wondered why the Jelly Bears didn’t give them the gift themselves, they loved seeing the young Cake Hounds excitement as they ate their Bear Jellies. The younger Cake Wolf suggested they were just too busy today, or that they wanted to get home quickly, as more Cremlins had begun to appear and attack travelers along this stretch of road.

But, a few moments after the Bear Jellies had been devoured, the Cake Hounds began to yawn. So did the Cake Wolves. The elder Wolf wanted to continue the patrol, but the pupcakes were dropping left and right, and quickly falling asleep. He too, began to feel quite tired all of the sudden, so they all laid down in the middle of the road to take a quick rest. A shadow fell over them as they fell asleep. A sinister laugh rang in their ears and made the Wolf’s hair stand on end, they growled at the Cookie. “Yes, yes. That’s it. Go right to Sleepytown, little Cakes. You won’t be bothering us or our Cremlins anymore. Mehehehehehehehahah!” The Wolves realized they’d fallen into a trap, but it was too late. The Bear Jellies had already begun to take effect and they blacked out. Wizard Cookie chuckled and rubbed his hands together in glee. Perfect. Everything was going according to plan. He raised his wand and levitated the Cakes off the ground. He then lifted two cages from the bushes. A convenient and perfect hiding spot. He opened the smaller cage and threw the Cake Hounds in, slamming the door of the cage shut. The force of the blow and the sound of the cage door slamming shut woke a few hounds for just a second. But the Bear Jellies were still in their system, so they fell asleep again shortly after. He proceeded to do the same with the Cake Wolves, throwing them into a slightly larger cage. (But not too much larger, in truth, neither of the cages were large enough to properly hold all the Cakes so they were shoved in uncomfortable positions.)

He hummed happily to himself as he replaced the cages in the bushes, where they would be well out of the way. “Another job well done, ah Wizard Cookie, you mad genius,” he said to himself, giggling at his own praise. “Now they won’t be able to free any Cookies from the Cremlins’ trap! They’ll be stuck until they return with the Enchanted Bandages to spread the Curse! Hehehe! And they won’t be able to stop our forces from intercepting any Cookies who come this way for Bear Jellies from the village. Win-Win! Haha!” He was interrupted by the sound of his stomach growling. “Ooh, speaking of which,” he said holding his stomach, “I could use a Bear Jelly myself right about now. I hope Chili Pepper Cookie hasn’t eaten them all,” he lamented to nobody in particular as he veered off the forest path and into the woods. The tiny Cookie got tangled in brambles and tripped over tree roots a couple of times. He had to retrieve his hat on one occasion. But nevertheless, he managed to make it back to their secret campsite, cleverly hidden in a clearing deep in the forest.

“No! No! I refuse! I won’t do it! I refuse to let you Cookies use my talents for your evil schemes any longer!” A voice shouted. “Oh, really, is that so?” Chili Pepper’s voice replied. Wizard Cookie entered the clearing to see Chili Pepper with a Bear Jelly in one hand and her dagger in the other. She was pressing the dagger to the throat of a large Sugar Gnome with an excellently kept curly beard. He was tied up and glaring at the spicy Cookie, despite the danger he was in. Chili Pepper casually took a bite out of her Bear Jelly. Yellow crumbs covered her face and chocolate dripped down her chin. Wizard Cookie scoffed. “Honestly, Chili Pepper Cookie, have you no class? You could at least wipe your face with… Where’s your bandana?” Wizard Cookie asked, noticing the accessory she always wore was now missing. She wiped her mouth on the back of her arm and pointed towards the tree stump they’d sat the stolen crown on. “I used it to tie up the cat, we were out of rope.” Wizard Cookie looked to see Bat-Cat lying near the tree stump. His limbs were bound together by the red fabric in an awkward position, he was struggling and shouting. “Help! Please, someone, anyone! Please help meow!”

Wizard Cookie turned his attention back to Chili Pepper Cookie, and the Yellow Bear Jelly in her hand. “You didn’t eat all of them, did you?” She shrugged, “I dunno.” Wizard Cookie groaned loudly and stomped off towards the bag they had stolen from the Jelly Bears earlier. He opened it to find three Bear Jellies at the bottom. Seriously? This thing was full of Bear Jellies before I left! He decided not to gripe about it to her, as she was busy and he was hungry. At least she didn’t eat all of them. “Look,” Chili Pepper said to the Sugar Gnome as she finished off her Bear Jelly. “We’re not asking for much, you don’t even need to make it as big as you did the other ones. Just big enough to hold one small cat. And uh… It needs to be travel friendly so, lightweight and preferably with a handle. And we’re in a hurry so, MAKE IT SNAPPY!” she shouted, pressing the dagger harder. The Sugar Gnome only narrowed his eyes at the Cookie. “What part of ‘no’ do you Cookies not understand?” Chili Pepper groaned loudly, “WIZARD COOKIE! This stupid Sugar Gnome is refusing to make us any more cages!” Wizard Cookie groaned as he shoved the rest of the Bear Jelly into his mouth. It was just one thing after another today, he couldn't even have a small snack in peace. “Delays, delays, nothing but delays,” he groaned, picking up the other two Bear Jellies and putting them in his pocket.

He picked up his Candy Wand and stomped over to the tied-up Sugar Gnome. “Listen here, buddy!” He shouted, pointing his Wand at the Gnome, “I haven’t had anything to eat today, so I’m hungry. And when I’m hungry I get short-tempered, and you’re starting to make me angry. You don’t want to see me when I’m hungry, and you don’t want to see me when I’m angry! And I’m both right now so you know what that makes me, hm? It makes me hangry! And you REALLY don’t wanna see me hangry!”

“Get to the point, Pointy Hat,” Chili Pepper Cookie said, crossing her arms over her chest. Wizard Cookie cleared his throat, “The point is, we have ways of getting what we want,” he said with a low, cold voice and a cruel gleam in his eye. Chili Pepper flashed a toothy grin and chuckled when she saw the Sugar Gnome’s expression change from stubbornness to slight fear. “Don’t make me do something I’m going to hate myself for in the morning, Maestro Sugar Gnome,” Wizard Cookie warned. The Sugar Gnome gulped, he looked behind Wizard Cookie at the injured and frightened Bat-Cat who was still calling out for his Master. And his resolution returned. “NO!” He said firmly, sticking his nose up in the air. “It’s bad enough you’ve forced me to use my artisan talents to craft such horrible cages for the poor Cake Hounds, but I draw the line at helping you harm that poor little kitty! Do whatever you want! I can take it.” The two Cookies sighed and looked at one another, nodded and turned back to the Sugar Gnome. “Ok, well how about… SOME MILK! Milk of such pure, angel-white luxuriousness! It’ll melt all your precious sugars away!” Wizard Cookie chuckled. Maestro Sugar Gnome's eyes widened with horror. “M-milk? You wouldn’t! You couldn’t! No! I beg you!”

Chili Pepper slowly moved her dagger from his throat to his cheek, “Then you better do as we say,” she said coldly. The terrified Sugar Gnome swallowed and sighed. “I’ll… I’ll need my tools.” Wizard Cookie laughed triumphantly. “HAHAHAHA! See! No one tells the Cookies of Night no. Now march!” He shouted, pressing his Candy Wand into the Sugar Gnome’s back as Chili Pepper untied him. Wizard Cookie reached into his pockets to retrieve the Bear Jellies but found they were empty, “Huh? What? What happened to…” He understood immediately. “Ggggrrrrrr! CHILI PEPPER COOKIE!” He shouted with fire in his eyes as he turned to his companion and saw her eating the last two Bear Jellies. “C’mon, Pointy Hat. You should know by now your pockets are never a safe place to keep anything when I’m around,” the thief chuckled. “Gimme that back!” he shouted diving towards her. She pushed him back with one hand and held the last Bear Jelly above his head teasingly, “Make me!” She laughed as Wizard Cookie tried to reach for the Jelly, holding it just out of the short Cookie’s reach.

Bat-Cat would have found the whole scene comical, if he wasn’t tied up that is. He flattened his ears against his head and mewed softly. “Meowster… Where are you?”

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“So, Dark Choco Cookie, you said you were from a kingdom too? What’s your kingdom like?” Red Velvet asked, smiling at the warrior. Pomegranate Cookie rolled her eyes and mumbled, “Here we go,” under her breath. She knew this could only go one of two ways. Him talking non-stop about how great his homeland was or him remembering that thing and being depressed for the rest of the afternoon. Dark Choco Cookie smiled. “I hail from the Dark Cacao Kingdom, a harsh blizzard-ridden land. All the Cookies who come from there are molded by battle and are fierce warriors. Living in such barren conditions has trained us to withstand any danger, whether it be piercing cold, starvation, or fierce monsters, our warriors never yield or run from danger. From childhood my people and I were trained in the way of swordsmanship, but even with a lifetime of experience, no warrior comes close to the skill and power of my father, Dark Cacao Cookie.”

“You… Must really look up to him,” Red Velvet replied. “Idolizes more like,” Pomegranate Cookie whispered under her breath. “How could I not? He single-handedly split apart the Black and White Dragons. The two had been locked in a fierce battle for countless generations and laying waste to the land beneath them as they fought, until my father broke them asunder with his sword. He’s led our kingdom through many tough times and fierce battles. Our grand and powerful kingdom was built upon the foundation of his sacrifices, a kingdom in which no foe could topple!” He suddenly grew silent. “Until the Dark Flour War that is…” Pomegranate Cookie placed her hand to her face. “Oh no,” she sighed. “What happened?” Red Velvet asked, seeing Dark Choco Cookie begin to stare off into space. Pomegranate Cookie knew he wasn’t going to answer, he was lost in memories. So she stepped next to Red Velvet to explain. “The Blind King’s army invaded the kingdom while Dark Cacao Cookie was away fighting in the Pure Vanilla Kingdom. Dark Choco Cookie had to fight them back on his own.”

“I wasn’t alone! I had my men with me… They fought bravely but… We lost many good warriors to the curse that day,” Dark Choco Cookie lamented, placing a hand over his scar. “Father left me in charge of his kingdom while he was away at war.” “Is that how you lost your eye?” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked. Dark Choco Cookie nodded, “That’s right, this scar is a constant reminder of my failure. I alone carry the burden of the defeat and losses my people suffered that night… Because of my incompetence…” “Oh, stop it, Dark Choco Cookie! You were 16!” Pomegranate Cookie shouted. “I was their prince, Father trusted me to protect the kingdom in his absence! I failed to do so. The entire citadel was razed to the ground because of me… Walls that had stood for generations crumbled because of my failure…” Pomegranate Cookie gave him a look. “Failure… You call leading your people in a mass exodus through barren tundra and over mountains, and rebuilding an entire kingdom a failure?” She questioned. “Woah, you did all that, Dark Choco Cookie?” Red Velvet breathed, looking at the warrior with awe. Dark Choco Cookie sighed. “If I had just held them back during the fight we wouldn’t have needed to rebuild… Nevertheless. My people and I retreated farther into the wilderness and rebuilt the kingdom on the edge of the Licorice Sea. But when my father didn’t return long after the war’s end, and once I was certain the walls were strong enough to withstand any attack. I left the kingdom in the care of my loyal watchers and my younger brother, and I set out on a quest to find him and bring him home. And also…” He planted his sword in the dirt next to him, “To grow stronger, so another tragedy like that never occurs again under my watch.”

“I believe you can do it, Dark Choco Cookie! You’re already an amazing fighter! The way you cut down those Cremlins earlier was amazing!” Red Velvet cheered. Dark Choco Cookie chuckled at the praise. “Need I remind you that we would have been defeated had you not intervened when you did?” Red Velvet Cookie shrugged. “We were just trying to help.” Chiffon barked in agreement. “What about you, Pomegranate Cookie? Did you lose your home because of the War too?” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked. “Oh no,” she said, shaking her head. “I don’t think the curse even got as far as my village. It’s a dull little town in the middle of a deep forest. But I never really knew because I left and never went back,” she said with a smile. “Uh… Left? That’s not the story I remember hearing,” Dark Choco Cookie chuckled. Pomegranate Cookie blushed slightly, “Ok, ok, I got kicked out,” she said rolling her eyes. “What? Why?” Red Velvet asked. Pomegranate waved her hand dismissively. “My people are very…. Set in their ways. The Pomegranate Village follows a very specific set of rules, no contact with the outside world, namely. Everyone speaks the same, dresses the same, acts the same. Boring to the maximum! Every day was the same as the last, I was about to go crazy with boredom living there! But it was considered majorly taboo to leave for any reason. And… As the Village Priestess it was kinda impossible for me to leave especially. Because… Well, that kinda made me the leader of the village.”

“But you didn’t like it there?” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked. “Sugar Swan, no. I hated that place. I wanted something new, something exciting. I wanted to spend my life going on adventures! Not stuck caring for an overgrown tree in the middle of nowhere.” “So what did you do?” Pomegranate Cookie smiled, “Let’s just say, you break enough rules, make it perfectly clear that you wanna do things your way enough times to my people and it doesn’t matter who you are, you’re marked as an outcast and shunned from their society forever!” She said happily. Red Velvet raised an eyebrow, “I’ve never heard someone say something like that in such a… Excited and upbeat tone of voice before.” Pomegranate Cookie giggled, “Are you kidding me? Getting banished from the Village was a dream come true for me! I could go wherever I wanted, do whatever I pleased without anyone telling me what to do! I was free! Free to explore Earthbread at my leisure!” She said, spreading her arms out and running ahead with a gleeful giggle. Dark Choco Cookie chuckled watching his companion. “Pomegranate Cookie’s always had a young spirit about her, she finds joy in the simplest of things, and that joy is rather contagious if I do say so myself,” he said, watching her spin around several times until she got too dizzy to continue and fell to the ground, giggling. “Although,” he continued, “She can be quite a handful. Her dough is actually quite soft and she gets so caught up in the moment sometimes that she fails to notice when she’s in danger.”

“Is that how she got caught in Cremiln Cream earlier?” Red Velvet asked. Dark Choco Cookie sighed, “Yup, and with her being more prone to crumbling I have to keep an eye on her. But… It’s better than traveling Earthbread alone.”

“Shadowbolt Strike!!!”

The group paused. “Did you hear that? That sounded like Licorice Cookie!” Poison Mushroom Cookie exclaimed. Magic blasts and monster roars could be heard from up ahead. “Sounds like more Cremlins,” Pomegranate Cookie added. Dark Choco Cookie drew his sword, “Stay together! Pomegranate, get behind me!” He shouted, charging forward. Red Velvet drew his sword as well and ran alongside Dark Choco Cookie. The sounds grew louder and louder as they approached a wide part of the path. Licorice Cookie and the Licorice Minions were facing off against several Cremlins and Waffle Wings. Licorice focused on the aerial attacks, while the Licorice Minions focused on the Cremlins. Two other creatures were cowering on top of a large rock, trying to stay out of the monsters’ reach. They weren't Cookies, they were much rounder and had cute round ears, they looked like they were made out of jelly rather than dough. Licorice Cookie was doing a good job holding off the Cremlins, but it was clear he was starting to sweat, and his arms were shaking as his scythe grew heavy. Dark Choco and Red Velvet dove into battle and slashed through the creatures before they could react, the few that remained tried to retreat upon realizing they were now outnumbered. But Chiffon intercepted one, Poison Mushroom blew up another, and Pomegranate Cookie used her magic to levitate one into the air before it could escape, “Going somewhere?” She chuckled, she waved her rod, the sound of bells chiming filled the air as she blasted a ball of magic towards the creature, hitting it square on and causing it to explode.

Licorice Cookie panted and finally lowered his scythe. “Thanks guys, great timing,” he smiled. “No problem, buddy!” Red Velvet said, giving him a thumbs-up. “Are you alright?” Pomegranate Cookie asked, running up to the jelly creatures. “Yes, we are now,” one of them replied. “Thaaaaank you for saaaving us. You’re a lot nicer than those ooooother Cookies.” Licorice Cookie raised an eyebrow. “What other Cookies?” “The Coooookies who stole the bag of Bear Jellies our villllage worked sooooooo haaaaard to maaaake,” the first one said sadly. “Bear Jellies? Ah, I see. If you can make Bear Jellies, then you must be Jelly Bears,” Dark Choco Cookie said. “Uh-huh! We’re from Bear Jelly Village!” The Jelly Bears said, “We make deeeelicious Bear Jellies and share them with Cakes and Cookies!” Licorice Cookie winced, “No offense… But I’ve tried one of those and… they’re not that delicious… Not to mention the nasty side-effects.” The Jelly Bears looked confused, “What siiiiide effects?” “Just ask Schwarzwälder, he fell asleep as soon as he ate some of those things.” The Jelly Bears chuckled, “The only side effect to eating a Beeeeear Jelly is happiness, especially the ooooones from oooour village.”

The Cookies suddenly heard a loud yawn and saw Schwarzwälder walking up to the group and rubbing his eyes. “Wha–What happened?” He said groggily. “Welcome back to the land of the living, Sleeping Beauty,” Licorice Cookie snorted. “Hemmmm,” one of the Jelly Bears said, “I woooonder what happened to the Caaake Hounds who patrol the forest path. They usually keeeeeep those scary monsters awaaaay.” The other one nodded, “Yeeeah, they normally walk with us and proteeect us from those monsters while we’re delivering our Beeear Jellies.” Red Velvet raised an eyebrow. “Wait, now that you mention it, I haven’t seen any of the Cake Hounds from the forest either.” “Could something have happened to them?” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked. “I sure hope not, those Cake Hounds are my friends!” Red Velvet Cookie cried. “Excuse me, Jelly Bears?” Licorice Cookie asked. “Did these Cookies have a cat with them, one with bat wings by any chance?” The Jelly Bear rocked back and forth on his feet nervously. “Ooooooh I don’t knoooooow, oh. But one had a big pointy hat and the other had a scary red knife!” Licorice Cookie nodded, “That’s them. That’s the Cookies who Cat-napped Bat-Cat!”

“And stole a crown from our kingdom,” Red Velvet Cookie added. “And now they’re stealing Bear Jellies? Something’s not adding up,” Pomegranate Cookie said. “No. A lotta things are adding up. Think about it. Cake Hounds go mysteriously disappearing, Bear Jellies that only Cakes can eat show up shortly after they steal from the Jelly Bears, Bear Jellies that make you fall asleep. Trust me, those Cookies have something to do with those missing Cake Hounds, or my name ain’t Licorice Cookie! And it is…” His speech was interrupted by his growling stomach. He coughed, trying to hide the sound. “Wow, sounds like you guys haven't eaten in daaaaays,” one of the Jelly Bears said. “Hey! Why don’t you come back to the Village with uuuuuus? We can give you some of our goooood Bear Jellies as a thank yoooou for saaaving us! I’m sure the prince will be deeeelighted to have guests!” “Uh…” Licorice Cookie said, the last Bear Jelly he’d eaten left a bad taste in his mouth for the things, literally. He looked down at his minions, who were standing around him in a half-circle squeaking and holding their hands together, while looking at him with puppy dog eyes. Even if he couldn’t speak their language, he would have understood what they were saying.

“Well, ok. As long as they’re fresh I guess.” Dark Choco Cookie smiled and placed a hand on the Dark Wizard’s shoulder. “Besides, it would be rude to refuse such a kind invitation.” “Hooraaay, follow us!” The Jelly Bears cheered happily. But even as he followed them, Red Velvet couldn’t get his mind off the Cake Hounds.

What could have happened to my friends?

Chapter Text

The Bear Jelly Village was a sunny place. Not just the weather, but the dispositions of the villagers. The Jelly Bears all welcomed the travelers with sparkling eyes and bright smiles as if they hadn’t seen another living being for thousands of years. The Jelly Bear Prince, a pink Jelly Bear with a small golden crown, was especially happy to see the visitors. “Welcome! Weeeelcome! Welcome to our village! Cubbi and Zummi told me aaaall about how you brave Cookies rescued them from the scaaary monsters! I am greatly in your debt for saving my people!” Red Velvet Cookie rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. “Aw, it was nothing, those Cremlins have been causing trouble for everybody and really, Dark Choco and I just came in at the end. It was Licorice Cookie who did all the work,” he said, nodding at his friend.

All the praise was then suddenly directed at the Dark Wizard, who froze and stammered slightly in response. He was blushing and tripping over his words at the flood of “thanks yous” and compliments from the cheerful Jelly Bears. His Minions started tugging at his robes and as if on cue, Licorice Cookie’s stomach growled. A young Jelly Bear Cub with a Red Ribbon on her head stepped forwards, “Hey, are you guys by any chincety-chance, hungry? I bet fighting aaaall those monsters really worked up an appetite!” The Jelly Bear Prince nodded in agreement and waved to a few Jelly Bears before turning back to the Cookies. “Please, let us shaaare with you all some of ooour beeest Bear Jellies as thanks for saving my people!” Licorice Cookie’s eyes darted around in search of an exit. “Uh… Really, t-that's not necessary. I uh… Ulp-” He stopped when he noticed the Jelly Bear Cub holding up a small Jelly to him. She had the biggest smile on her face and her eyes were twinkling with excitement. “We juuuuust made this batch this morning! Try one!” She insisted. Licorice Cookie waved his hand, sweating nervously. “N-no really… I-I-I wouldn’t want to impose…”

The Jelly Bear Prince chuckled, “Oh, it’s noooo trouble at aaaall, there’s plenty for eeeveryone! And we Jelly Bears loooove nothing more than shaaaring our craft with others!” Licorice Cookie’s Licorice Minions shook their heads. He agreed with them. Licorice Cookie had his reservations about this particular type of Jelly from the one he’d tried earlier and the effects they had on Schwarzwälder. He reluctantly accepted the Jelly from the young Jelly Bear and turned it over in his hands. One last look at the Jelly Bears’ faces told him there was no getting out of this. Well, the color looks better at least. He thought to himself. This Bear Jelly was a bright sunny yellow and didn’t smell like the others. He swallowed, slowly raised the Jelly to his mouth and took a small bite off the ear.

His eyes widened and without warning, Licorice Cookie bit the Jelly in half and shoved the other half into his mouth before he’d even swallowed the first. He removed his hands from his face, covered in yellow Jelly crumbs and chocolate filling, his yellow eyes sparkling. “That is the greatest thing I’ve ever tasted in my entire life!” he shouted. His friends looked at him in surprise and the Jelly Bears beamed with pride. “It’s actually good?” Schwarzwälder asked. Seeing their Master’s reaction, the Licorice Minions began hopping up and down and squeaking. The Jelly Bear Prince laughed, “Oh ho ho, don’t worry, there’s plenty enough for eeeverybody!” Each of the Cookies were given a handful of the bright Jellies, Licorice Cookie and his Minions were devouring them as if each bite was their last so they had to be good. One bite into the Jellies for each Cookie confirmed it.

“Wow! These are amazing!” Red Velvet cheered.

“Is the filling chocolate? I love chocolate!” Dark Choco Cookie exclaimed.

“I wonder if I could put Bear Jelly filling in my Shroomies?” Poison Mushroom wondered aloud.

“This place is so much friendlier than my village,” Pomegranate Cookie said with a smile.

The Licorice Minions squeaked happily, and Licorice Cookie chuckled. “Thank you so much for sharing your Bear Jellies with us, Prince Jelly Bear. My Minions and I were about to pass out from hunger,” Licorice Cookie chuckled. “It’s nooooo proooblem! After all, Cookies and Jelly Bears have been friends for geeeenerations!” Red Velvet raised an eyebrow upon hearing this information. He was intrigued. “Really? So Jelly Bears are friends with Cookies just like Cakes?”

“Well, the friendship between Cakes and other creatures is a biiiiit more recent but yes. Your ancestors helped oooour ancestors escape from the scaaary Witches.” Prince Jelly Bear explained. Licorice decided to jump in. “I think I remember reading about that. Jelly Bears were also created by the Witches to be eaten. But they weren’t able to escape without help because they weren’t as strong or as fast as other desserts. No offense.” “Noooone taken, hehe, it’s on account of the rooound bodies and chubby legs. We’re not fighters, but we are makers! Especially Jellies! We Jelly Bears are veeeeery proud of our ex-cell-lent Jelly making talents! And the beeest way to show that is to shaaare our de-lic-ous Bear Jellies with everyone!” The Jelly Bears of the village nodded and hummed in agreement. “I remember reading about that in Jelly Jamboree, 4th edition. Jelly Bears introduced Cookies to the art of refined Jelly making as thanks for rescuing them,” Licorice Cookie said, proud his knowledge could add to the conversation. “And just as the Cookies of ooold did, you brave Cookies have rescued my people from the scaaary Cremlins! So please, let us hold a graaand feast of our finest Jellies in your honor!” The Jelly Bears all voiced their excited agreement.

“It’s been aaaages since we’ve been able to have a proper celebration,” the young Jelly Bear girl added. “Why’s that?” Red Velvet Cookie asked, tilting his head. “Weeell,” The Jelly Bear Prince said slowly. “Usually when Cookies visit our villaaage it’s feeew and faaar between. Just ooone or twooo Cookies every now and again. Many years ago, when I was juuuuust a Jelly Bear cub, Coooookies would come by the dozens to ooour village. We’d share our delicious Bear Jellies, and theyyy’d share with us such bea-uti-ful things in return. Dreamcatchers, pretty ribbbbons and boooows, handy tools, and shiiiny silverware. They aaaall came from this pretty little kingdom nearby, but one day… That kingdom just…. Mysteriously disappeared, and the Cooookies stopppped coming to visit us,” he said sadly. Some of the older Jelly Bears sighed at the fond memory of the past, of their old friends who seemed to vanish into thin air. Those happy days seemed as nothing more than a wonderful dream now.

Then Red Velvet Cookie spoke. Something that ignited a fire of joy and hope in the little town.

“Wait, you mean the kingdom we’re rebuilding?”

Soft gasps echoed through the village. The Prince’s eyes widened as the Cake-Cookie’s words sunk in, “You’re rebuilding it?” Red Velvet Cookie nodded and smiled. “Yeah, my friends and I are making it into our new home. The Sugar Gnomes and a handful of other Cookies already live there. And, while we’re not able to make those sorts of things yet… We are learning to craft some pretty helpful stuff. Maybe we could make things and share them with you guys like the Cookies of the old kingdom did.” Dark Choco Cookie smiled, “Excellent thinking, Red Velvet Cookie. Setting up strong trade connections is vital for the growth of a young nation. Establishing trade with the Jelly Bears would be a good start for the foundation of your kingdom’s economy.” “I’m gonna pretend like I understood a word of what you just said,” Red Velvet Cookie said. Dark Choco Cookie chuckled.

The young Jelly Bear Prince was so excited he could barely breathe, “D-do you think that maaaybe, those cookies would like to coooome visit us sometiiimes? We’re juuuust a half-day’s walk from the kingdom if I’m remembering cooorrectly.” “Of course!” Red Velvet Cookie exclaimed. Chiffon barked and waged his tail in agreement. “After our friends try these awesome Bear Jellies of yours, I wouldn’t be surprised if they came to your village every day!”

The Jelly Bears erupted into cheers and shouts of joy. Some started dancing and hugging one another. “Oh, this is suuuuch joyous neeeews! The rebirth of the Cooookie Kingdom! I’m so happy, I could cry,” the Jelly Bear Prince exclaimed. “Now, now, your hiiiighness, keeeeep it together,” an older Jelly Bear said sweetly to the young prince. He wiped a tear from his eyes, “I know, I know. I’m just sooooooo haaapppy!” “Hooray! Now we reeeeally have a reason to celebrate! Let’s throw the biggest paaaarty ever!” The young Jelly Bear girl cheered. Red Velvet blushed slightly, “All the attention is a little embarrassing,” he whispered to Dark Choco Cookie. “The best way to handle it is to accept it humbly. Besides, it’d be rude to reject their invitation,” the warrior said softly. “I’m in if it means more Bear Jellies!” Licorice Cookie shouted. His friends laughed, and the Jelly Bears jolly laughter joined in.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The Jelly Bears laughed and sang as their Prince toasted the Cookies and the new kingdom. Poison Mushroom Cookie was having the time of his life making so many new friends. Dark Choco Cookie was telling one of his war stories to a group of wide eyed Jelly Bears. Pomegranate Cookie was learning a new dance from the Jelly Bears while adding a few moves of her own. Red Velvet Cookie was surrounded by a group of Jelly Bear children who were fascinated with his Cake arm. And Licorice Cookie was… Sitting by himself at a table and forlornly rolling a Bear Jelly back and forth in between his hands. The Jelly Bear Prince noticed this, he wouldn’t stand for one of his own subjects looking so sad, much less an honored guest. He walked over to the dejected Cookie, “What’s wrong, Licorice Cookie, why so bluuuue?” He asked. Licorice Cookie looked up with an empty expression. He sighed heavily, “I’m worried about my friend, Bat-Cat. Those Cookies who stole from the Jelly Bears we rescued, they also kidnapped my pet. We were trying to find them and rescue him when we ran into the Jelly Bears.”

The Prince frowned, “That sounds terrrrible, but you Cookies are verrrry brave. I’m suuure you’ll get your friend back!” He said with an encouraging smile. Licorice Cookie returned the smile with a weak one of his own. “Thanks, I don’t know what I would do without him. I just wish he was here,” he said, picking up the Bear Jelly in between his hands and staring at it. “I wish I could share this moment with him. I’m here partying with you guys and eating Jellies while he’s starving and scared. I… Can’t,” he said, shoving the Jelly aside. “I’m sorry… I… I hate to be a party pooper and dampen the mood, but I just can’t enjoy myself knowing Bat-Cat is still in danger!” He cried, tears stinging his eyes. The Jelly Bear Prince nodded understandingly. “I know. If any of my friends were in daaanger, I’d feel the saaame way.” he smiled softly, “Why don’t I give you a few extraaa Bear Jellies for the road? So you can shaaare them with your friend once you rescueeee him.” Licorice Cookie smiled. “Yeah, I’m sure Bat-Cat would love these… Thank you.”

The Prince nodded and waved one of his subjects over, “I’m sure you’ll find him. If you Coooookies can face those scaaaary monsters down, then nothing can stop you from beating those meeean Cookies.” Licorice Cookie’s smile grew a bit, he wiped his eyes dry. “Yeah, you’re right, I’m gonna do whatever it takes to get Bat-Cat back. I… I CAN beat them. Especially since I have my friends to help me!” Licorice Cookie’s Minions squeaked in agreement. “Um…. Prince Jelly Bear….” A Jelly Bear said awkwardly, walking up to them. “Ooour storage where we keep the extra Beaaar Jellies…. Is uh…. Completeeeely empty.” “Oh,” The Prince replied calmly. That actually wasn’t much of a surprise. It’d been a long time since they’d had a reason to empty the storage, and with the size and importance of the party it made sense for them to have used all the Bear Jellies they had on hand. He shrugged, “No biiiiig deal, we’ll just make some more.” The Jelly Bear looked away nervously, “Um… We can’t do thaaaat either.” Ok, that was a surprise. “Well, why nooooot?”

“Because our artisans haven’t arriiiived with the Royal Jelly yet.” The Prince was confused, then worried. The Royal Jelly was due back an hour ago. He gasped softly, “Thaaat’s ill news. Without Royaaal Jellies, we can’t make our Beaaar Jellies.” Red Velvet approached the group carrying Chiffon in his arms. (He had managed to distract the Jelly Bear Cubs by suggesting a game of Hide and Seek and snuck away while they were all hiding.) “Do you think something’s happened to them?” He suggested. “I bet my bottom coin it’s those same Cookies who Cat-napped Bat-Cat!” Licorice Cookie exclaimed. “Oh meeeee. Oh myyyyy… Whatever will we dooooo?” The Jelly Bear Prince said, starting to panic. Licorice Cookie placed a hand on his shoulder, “Hey, we’re going after those Cookies as it is. If they’ve done anything to your friends, we’ll be sure to make them pay for it!” He said furring his brow. The Licorice Minions squeaked in agreement, waving their Bone Daggers. “You will?” The Jelly Bear Prince said hopefully. Red Velvet Cookie nodded, “You bet, those Cookies have been causing trouble for everybody. And we’re gonna stop them!” Chiffon barked in agreement. “Oh, thank you! Thank you! Pleeease, if you happen if find our Jelly Bear workers, rescuuue them!”

“You can count on us, hey guys!” Red Velvet called to his friends, “C’mon, we’ve got Cookies to stop and Jelly Bears to save!” Chiffon jumped out of Red Velvet’s arms and barked, running ahead of the group with Red Velvet close behind. Poison Mushroom popped out of a bush, Dark Choco Cookie hit a tree, which Pomegranate Cookie then fell out of. He caught her before she could hit the ground and lifted her up, placing her on his shoulders before brandishing his sword with a cry of, “Cookies, onward!” and running after the group. Schwarzwälder howled and charged forward with Licorice Cookie bringing up the rear. “Sorry to eat and run, but I’ve got a Bat-Cat to save,” Licorice Cookie said fist-pumping and running after his friends, “Hey guys, wait up!”

“Oh ho ho, good luck, Cookies!” The Jelly Bear Prince shouted, waving farewell. Cries of “Good-bye” and “Good luck” echoed throughout the village as the Cookies disappeared down the forest trail.

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With their stomachs full and their spirits lightened, the small band of desserts continued down the forest trail. Schwarzwälder, Chiffon, and Red Velvet Cookie (being the trackers of the group) led the way. Chiffon sniffed the ground, turned and hopped up and down, yapping. “Choco Werehound Brute smell it too! Stealing Cookies’ and Bat-Cat’s scent!” Red Velvet Cookie knelt down and inspected the ground. “I see several sets of footprints. Some small ones looking like they belong to Cakes, an older set that’s far apart, looks like they were running. These look like they belong to Cookies.” Licorice Cookie looked down at the prints, they were hard to see and nearly covered by this point, but the fact there were prints at all was a good sign. “Good, that means we’re heading in the right direction.” Red Velvet narrowed his eyes and hummed softly. “Hey, Red… Is there something wrong?” Licorice Cookie asked, gripping his scythe tight.

“There are Cake Hound prints here, but… We haven’t seen any sign of Cake Hounds since we’ve entered the forest,” The Cake-Cookie hybrid replied. Chiffon’s ears drooped, and then picked up as if trying to detect a sound. Schwarzwälder stuck his nose into the air and took a deep breath through his nose. “Mmmm, Choco Werehound Brute smell Cakes, but scent is weak. Weird… This is right in their patrol path. The scent should be stronger.” Chiffon barked. “You’re right, Chiffon. The patrol should have went by recently. Which means something must have happened to them or…” Red Velvet Cookie was interrupted by Chiffon suddenly letting out a howl.

“Chiffon what…” “Shusssh,” Schwarzwälder said, placing his hand over Red Velvet’s mouth and listening closely. After a moment of silence he howled as well. “What are you two doing?” Licorice Cookie said. “How do you think Cakes communicate long distances?” Schwarzwälder replied. “Wait…” Red Velvet said, “I… Think I hear something.” It was faint, but Red Velvet was certain he had heard the quiet sound of a howl. One of distress. A Cake Hound calling out for help in response to Schwarzwälder’s call. Red Velvet Cookie wasted no time in racing off in the direction of the howl. “Red Velvet Cookie, wait!” Schwarzwälder shouted. He couldn’t wait, his friends… No, his brothers and sisters were in trouble. Besides Licorice and Poison Mushroom Cookie, the Cakes were the closest thing to family he had. His heart pounded and bled from the thought of something happening to them. The thought of… Losing them. His mind flashbacked to his escape from the Witch’s House, to the decimated remains of Cakes that littered the countertop. What if he found some of his Cake friends like that? Torn to pieces and left to die. Sure, there weren’t any Witches within the Land of Little Big Dreams, but that didn’t mean there weren't dangers. He wanted to puke.

The howls had gone silent, yet he kept running and trying to listen for the Cake Hounds’ cries of distress. All the trees looked the same, and the path felt like it was growing more narrow. He felt like he was running in circles as the trees closed in on him. His chest felt like it was burning as his heart hammered in his chest. In his blind panic, he tripped and ended up face down with a mouthful of dirt. The foul taste in his mouth was enough to jar him back to reality, and give himself a moment to gather his thoughts as he sputtered and spat out the dust. He sat on his knees, breathing deeply and shutting his eyes. Ok. So, running in a blind panic clearly wasn’t working. He needed a plan. Once he had calmed himself down he took a close look at his surroundings. Trees, trees, dirt path. Wait… The footprints. The Cake Hound’s prints had disappeared, but a single set of Cookie prints were there.

Did the Cakes just disappear or…? No. No, those Cookies, they’re behind this. But… Red Velvet looked around, all he could see was trees and foliage and the path ahead of him. I need a better view of my surroundings. Red Velvet spotted a low hanging branch on a tall tree. He smiled, perfect. He leapt onto the branch and into the tree. Leaping from branch to branch. He found a foothold in a knot of a thick branch that reached over the path, he wrapped his Cake hand around a flexible branch to help his balance as he scanned his surroundings. Still no sign of the Cakes, just more trees and the path ahead. He shifted his weight uncomfortably as he tried to keep from panicking. The Hounds had stopped howling. That was the only way he could tell what direction to run in to find them.

Maybe I could… No, that's crazy… But… I am part Cake after all… Maybe… Well, I suppose it’s worth a shot.

He had to get the missing Cakes’ attention, one way or another. So he shifted his weight again, took a deep breath and pursed his lips together and attempted to howl. To make the same sound he’d heard Chiffon and Schwarzwälder make many times before. But it came out weak, more like a whimper than a howl. After a moment of silence, he furrowed his brow. Oh, come on, Red Velvet Cookie! You’re never going to get their attention like that! So he took a deep breath, threw his head back, and let out a noise that was more Cake than Cookie.

“RRRRrrrrOOOOOOoooooooooooOOOO!”

As the sound echoed through the forest, Red Velvet closed his eyes and listened intently. Soon, he heard it. The sound of a Cake Hound answering back with a howl of its own. He grinned ear to ear and jumped back onto the dirt path. Running in the direction of the howl. It was much closer now. “Red Velvet Cookie!” He turned and saw his friends running into view. “You can’t just run off like that man…. We gotta… We gotta stick together y’know… We’re a team…. And all that…” Licorice Cookie said in between gasps of air. “Sorry,” Red Velvet replied softly, he hadn’t meant to leave them behind, he just wanted to get his friends back so badly. “But I think I’m close to finding the Cake Hounds, I heard them nearby!” Chiffon sniffed the air and began to hone in on the scent. It was close, very close. Schwarzwälder looked at the Cake-Cookie hybrid with a raised eyebrow, “How’d you manage to get them to call out to you? Was that howl we heard earlier… You?” Red Velvet found himself smiling with pride. “Wait… You called out to the Cake Hounds by howling like one? And it actually worked?” Licorice Cookie said incredulously.

“Yeah, watch this,” Red Velvet replied, turning back to the trail and letting out a very Cake-like howl. Chiffon’s ears perked up and his eyes darted back and forth in confusion before resting on Red Velvet Cookie. He looked at his friend as if to say, “Wait… That was you?” “Wow, he even sounds just like a Cake,” Pomegranate Cookie chuckled. Suddenly Red Velvet heard a sound. The howls and barks of Cakes, and they were close. So close in fact, that it sounded like they were right next to them. “Did you guys hear that?” Licorice Cookie said. Poison Mushroom Cookie nodded, “Yeah… I hear Cake friends but… I don’t see them.” Pomegranate Cookie called out, “Here Cakey, Cakey, Cakey!” Chiffon suddenly started barking loudly, Red Velvet ran up to him. “What is it, buddy? Did you find them?” Chiffon barked and pointed his nose towards some bushes next to the path. Red Velvet Cookie raised an eyebrow and slowly began to push aside the foliage.

Licorice Cookie gasped, “Red Velvet Cookie! What are you doing? If you leave the path you could get lost in the woods! You should at least make a trail to find your way back or something!” Red Velvet’s response was, “Guys, I found them!” It took the other Cookies a second for his words to register, but once they sunk in they followed him into the foliage, with Licorice instructing Poison Mushroom to leave a trail of his Shroomies behind so they could find their way back. Luckily they didn’t have to go very far, they found Red Velvet a short way away hacking down bushes with his sword while Chiffon barked loudly. His weren’t the only barks the Cookies heard. Red Velvet Cookie pulled aside the bushes to reveal two small cages with the Cake Hounds trapped in one and a couple of Cake Wolves in the other. The other Cookies gasped. “Someone’s trapped them inside a cage!” Licorice Cookie exclaimed. “Who would do something so cruel?” Pomegranate Cookie cried. “Hang on, guys!” Red Velvet Cookie said to his friends, who were looking at him with wide hopeful eyes. He instructed the Cakes to get as far away from the door of the cage as possible, which was hard for them to do as there wasn’t much room to start with, but they did their best. Red Velvet Cookie swung his sword and destroyed the lock of the cage, causing the door to swing open. The Cake Hounds jumped out barking with joy for their freedom.

“Sprinkles! Marmalade! Fondant! Are you all alright?” Red Velvet Cookie cried, bending down and letting the trio of Cakes jump into his arms. They all barked and wagged their tails. Red Velvet Cookie was almost knocked down from the force of them nuzzling him and trying to reach his face to lick him. He couldn’t stop himself from laughing, both from the tickling sensation their tiny paws and tongues gave him but from relief and joy. “Hahahahaha! Ok, ok, I’m glad to see you’re alright.” Dark Choco Cookie broke the other lock with his sword and the Cake Wolves leapt out of the cage and stretched. They shook themselves off and howled. “How did you all end up in cages? What happened?” Schwarzwälder asked the Wolves. The Wolves started barking, the Hounds joined in before one of the Wolves gave them a stern look and they stopped. The Wolves continued growling and whining, Schwarzwälder nodding the whole time. Once they were finished the Werehound turned back to the Cookies to translate.

“They say they were on patrol and they found some Bear Jellies. After they ate them they got super sleepy. But before they fell asleep they say a Cookie with a pointy hat and a sinister laugh appeared. When they woke up, they were trapped in those cages,” he explained. “I knew it!” Licorice Cookie shouted, “Those same Cookies who Cat-napped Bat-Cat!” Dark Choco Cookie furrowed his brow, “Stealing from Jelly Bears, trapping Cake Hounds, injuring other Cookies… What could these Cookies possibly have to gain from all this? What is their end-goal?” Licorice Cookie huffed, “I don’t know! And I don’t care! All I know is they’re up to no good!” Red Velvet turned back to the Cake Hounds, “What about the others? There’s a lot more Cakes than just you three. What about Marble, or Meringue? Or Coconut?” The Cake Hounds whimpered sadly in response. Red Velvet Cookie clenched his fists. “They probably got them too! Alright…. THAT DOES IT!!!” The Cookies jumped at Red Velvet Cookie’s sudden explosion. He turned with fire in his eyes and started pacing, “First they attack my friends, then they steal Bat-Cat, and now THIS! I won’t stand for it! I’m gonna track those Cookies down to the ends of Earthbread if I have to, to make them pay for what they did!”

“Here, here!” Licorice Cookie agreed. “That’s the spirit, Red Velvet Cookie! I can see your resolve to bring justice for your friends burns brighter than a thousand suns!” Dark Choco Cookie exclaimed. The Cake Wolves barked something and ran off. “Where are they going?” Pomegranate Cookie said. “They said they think they know which way the Cookies went and to follow them!” Schwarzwälder explained. “Well, what are we waiting for? Follow those Cakes!” Licorice Cookie cheered, pointing in the direction the Wolves ran. The group followed them back onto the path and onward. Red Velvet Cookie was more determined than ever to track those Cookies down. He kept his eyes and ears out for any more Cakes in distress that might be hidden in the bushes. The Cakes led the pack, howling every now and again. The Cookies were close behind, trying to keep up. Cakes were usually faster than Cookies so most of the group was just behind the Hounds. Except for Red Velvet Cookie, who was leaping from rock to tree and running alongside the Wolves. His time spent with the Cakes in the Kingdom seemed to have taught him how to keep up with them. They would howl every now and again, and Red Velvet would throw his head back and join in. He never felt so free. The Wolves managed to find one or two cages holding a few Cakes. Red Velvet and Dark Choco would break them open and the Cakes would knock them down and drown them in puppy kisses of gratitude for freeing them. Each Cake gave the same description of the events leading up to their capture, and the Cookie responsible for it.

“There you go, little guy,” Dark Choco Cookie said softly, pulling a Cake Hound free from the cage and setting it down. The Cake wagged its tail and barked a thank you before scampering off to find its friends. “Try to avoid bad Bear Jellies from now on!” Red Velvet called after it. “How many more are there?” Licorice Cookie asked. Red Velvet Cookie sighed, “Who knows, I don’t know every Cake in the forest, and those guys have a major head start.” Dark Choco Cookie placed his hand on Red Velvet’s shoulder reassuringly, “Now, now, Red Velvet, chin up. I’m sure we will find all of them, and we will find those Cookies, and bring them to justice!” He looked up at the warrior and smiled, “You really think so, Dark Choco Cookie?’ Dark Choco smiled, he placed his hand on his sword and said as he swung it, pointing it outward, “On my honor as a Hero, I swear it!” (He must have done this flamboyant promise more than once, as Pomegranate Cookie was standing off to one side copying his every movement with her rod. She was even mouthing his words. Causing Licorice and Poison Mushroom Cookie to giggle at her mimicry of the warrior.)

“HELP! HEEEEEEELLLLP!”

The Cookies and Cakes all froze. Red Velvet Cookie turned his head in the direction of the shout. “Heeelp! Pleeease soooomebody saaaaave us!” “That sounds like Jelly Bears!” Red Velvet Cookie exclaimed. “And they sound like they’re in trouble!” Pomegranate Cookie exclaimed. “There’s no time to waste! Cookies, onward!” Dark Choco Cookie shouted, brandishing his sword with his usual flair. The Cakes led the charge, howling as they rushed forwards, prepared for battle. They found two Jelly Bears being attacked by a hoard of Cremlins and Waffle Wings. One Jelly Bear was on the ground, shaking and crying. The other was between her and the Cremlins, and was swinging a large stick around as a makeshift weapon in an attempt to hold them off. One of the Cremlins lunged and he managed to deflect them with the stick, but it was clear he wasn’t going to be able to keep this up forever. Licorice stepped forwards, clutching his scythe but was held back by Dark Choco Cookie. “Sit this one out, Licorice Cookie. With the Cakes’ help we have more than enough manpower to defeat them. You should save your Mana.” Licorice had to admit, that made sense, but he still looked over to Red Velvet, who gave him a smile and a nod. “We’ve got this. Sic ‘em boys!” Red Velvet Cookie shouted, curling his crimson hand into a claw and diving into battle alongside the Cakes.

The Cakes dove into the Cremlins, ripping them apart and causing them to explode. They shook the cream off and growled at the monsters. Chiffon led the charge, headbutting a Cremlin and slamming it into the ground. The creature hissed at the small pupcake, and jumped back to its feet. Gurgling and swinging its arms. Chiffon managed to dodge most of the attacks by running circles around the monster, but it quickly learnt his patterns and managed to land a punch in the pupcake’s side. Chiffon slid back and yelped in pain, but steadied himself and growled at the monster. They both rushed each other and collided. Chiffon received a hard blow to the stomach and the Cremlin screeched in pain as the Cake Hound sunk his teeth into its shoulder. It continued to deliver blow after blow as it tried to shake him off. Chiffon fought the urge to put his tail between his legs and focused his strength on biting down harder. His nose and mouth filled with foul, sticky cream. He held on as tight as he could until the Cremlin stopped trashing. Then, the Cake Hound placed his paws on the Custard Monster’s chest and pulled back, ripping the Cremlin’s throat. It let out an unearthly screech and dissolved into a puddle of goo. Chiffon hacked and spat the putrid cream out of his mouth and wagged his tail triumphantly.

Schwarzwälder made Custard Monster pancakes out of several of the Cremlins with his hammer. Several more jumped on his back and tried to weigh him down. The Werehound growled, the creatures thought he couldn’t reach them now and chuckled evilly. They were wrong. Schwarzwälder dropped to the ground and rolled, flattening a few and causing them to explode, covering his thick fur in their foul-smelling cream. He shook himself off and huffed indignantly. “All right, WHO’S NEXT?” He bellowed, waving his hammer. Most of the Cremlins ran after that, but were intercepted by the other Cake Hounds, who would herd them towards the Wolves. The Wolves would then finish them off.

Dark Choco Cookie and Red Velvet stood between the Jelly Bears and the Waffle Wings. Cutting down any who dared get to close. Dark Choco Cookie took out several with a lightning blast, and Red Velvet leapt into the air as the Waffle Wings dive-bombed him to meet them in the middle with his crimson claw. He landed most of the time, but during one of his landings he stumbled slightly and was too slow to regain his balance before a Waffle Wing took advantage of the opportunity and hit him square in the chest with its waffle horn. Red Velvet cried out in pain and held his hand to his bruised chest. It hurt like heck, but the injury only served to anger the Cake-Cookie hybrid. Something inside him began to awake. Some primal instinct that began to guide his thoughts. His smelling and hearing seemed to double in power and his vision seemed to take in every little detail of his surroundings while staying locked on his enemy. His left eye began to grow dark, turning the blue hue into a slitted pupil. He planted his feet into the dirt and bared his teeth in a Cake-like growl, gripping the hilt of his sword tight. He rushed forwards with a battle cry and swung. A few more Waffle Wings tried to attack him from above. Before, their movements had been obscured by sunlight. The light had blinded him and made it hard to sense their movements. But suddenly, the light didn’t seem to bother him anymore, it was as if his vision had grown dark enough to block out the blinding rays and focus on his enemies. He cut each one down, his sword slicing through them like a warm knife through butter. Custard cream littered the ground, pooling at the Cookie’s feet, but he was focused on one thing.

Protecting his friends.

He only stopped to catch his breath when the last Waffle Wing had been defeated. He panted, still holding his sword in case another appeared. As he began to realize the danger was gone, the strange feelings that overtook him during the battle melted away, and his left eye returned to normal, now once again identical to the right. Red Velvet suddenly felt a wave of exhaustion overtake him, forcing the Cake-Cookie hybrid to drop to his knees. His chest was burning, every pound of his heart only seemed to aggravate his earlier injury. Dark Choco Cookie placed his hand on Red Velvet’s shoulder. “You okay?” Red Velvet was breathing too hard to answer, so he simply nodded. Dark Choco Cookie took his hand and helped him to his feet.

Chiffon ran up to Red Velvet barking happily. Red Velvet smiled at his little pupcake. “You did a great job buddy!” he said, petting him with his Cookie hand. Chiffon waged his tail rapidly as Red Velvet cooed, “Who’s a good boy? Who’s a good monster fighting Cake Hound?” Chiffon barked in reply as if to say, “I am! I am!” Dark Choco Cookie turned his attention to the Jelly Bears, “Are you two alright?” One was laying on the ground and the other was trying to support her. The standing one looked at the Cookies and replied, “Yes I’m fineeeee but… Gummi’s hurt reeeeeeal baaaaad.” Red Velvet couldn't stop himself from gasping slightly at the sight of her injury. “My… My leg…. It hurts… Goobbi it huuurts!” Her leg had a large chunk missing. Warm pink jam pooled around her injury. It looked suspiciously like a bite mark. Red Velvet wanted to throw up from the memories that began to surface. He looked away and fought to keep down the Bear Jellies he’d eaten earlier. Poison Mushroom and Licorice Cookie noticed and rushed to him to help support him.

“My, my, that looks quite bad,” Pomegranate Cookie said softly as she approached the group. Dark Choco Cookie smiled at her, “Think you can help?” The Jelly Bears looked at the pink-clad Cookie with hopeful eyes, “Well, I can try,” Pomegranate Cookie said with a nod as she held up her rod and approached the Jelly Bears. “Don’t worry,” Dark Choco Cookie said reassuringly, “Pomegranate Cookie’s one the best healers in all of Earthbread.” Pomegranate knelt beside the injured Jelly Bear and looked back at her friend. “Well, now I wouldn’t say that, but I might be able to ease the pain a bit.” The injured Jelly Bear squeezed her friend’s hand and sobbed, “Please….” Pomegranate Cookie nodded, “Ok, just hold still…” She held up her rod over the gaping wound. An aura of pink light began to glow from beneath her and a small breeze began to blow by, causing her robe to wave in the wind and her leaf hair decorations to sway, as she began to speak the wind grew stronger and the light grew brighter.

“O merciful Mother Nature, lend your child your might. Bring upon the wounded, healing and upon the weary, night. From the flowers’ soothing scent to the wind’s gentle caressing, heal what has been broken, give the fallen Nature's Blessing.”

The light around her was soft, it seemed to spread out around her in different shades of pink in a shape almost like that of a blooming flower. Some pieces of the light took the shape of butterflies and flew around her and the injured Jelly Bear before landing on her wound and dissipating. The butterflies seemed to fuse with the injury, making a light pink bandage of magic. The light was never too bright to be blinding so the group could watch Pomegranate work her spell. The entire party watched spellbound at the beautiful sight. Dark Choco Cookie beamed with pride, Pomegranate Cookie’s magic was indeed a sight to behold. Poison Mushroom Cookie couldn’t tear his eyes away from the display, and Red Velvet watched in awe as the Jelly Bear’s wound seemed to close up. Soon the light faded and Pomegranate Cookie pulled away.

Everyone was speechless, where once there had been a large hole in the Jelly Bear’s leg there was nothing. The wound had been completely healed, the only sign that she had ever been injured was the jam still stuck to her leg and the slight discoloration where her wound was. She blinked, and slowly began to stand. The other Jelly Bear cried out and grabbed onto her, “Gummi! Be caaaareful!” But she slowly began to smile, she looked at her friend and replied. “It’s okaaaay! It doesn’t hurt anymore! It’s aaaaall better!” The other Jelly Bear looked at her in mouth agape shock. She’d suffered an injury that bad and yet she wasn’t even sore? “Wow,” Licorice Cookie breathed, “Pomegranate Cookie, that was amazing! I’ve heard of how beautiful healing magic could be but… Wow!” Pomegranate Cookie blushed slightly and placed her hand over her mouth. Chuckling softly, she replied, “Oh, that was nothing. Usually I just use ‘Nature’s Blessing’, but I’ve never used my magic on a Jelly Bear before, so I figured it was probably best to run through the entire incantation… Just in case.”

“Thank you soooo much!” The healed Jelly Bear cheered. Pomegranate Cookie smiled warmly in return, “Happy I could help!” Licorice Cookie approached the two, “Hey, um… Sorry to interrupt but… You two wouldn’t have happened to see a couple of Cookies run by here have you? Carrying a cat by any chance?” The two Jelly Bears looked at one another.

“Did one have a pointy hat and a staff?”

“Did one have red hair and a scary knife?”

Licorice Cookie’s eyes widened, “Yes! Exactly! Those are the Cookies who kidnapped Bat-Cat!” “And trapped the Cake Hounds,” Red Velvet added. “Aaaaand hurt our friends, and stole Bear Jellies from other Jelly Bears!” Poison Mushroom Cookie chimed in. “They stole from uuuuuss too!” Goobbi replied, “We were bringing the honey and Rooooyal Jelly back to the village to make more Beeeear Jellies with. But those Cooooookies attacked us and then those scaaaary mosnters appeared!” The Cake Hounds and Cake Wolves barked angrily. “They hurt yooooou guys too? That explains why we haven’t seen any Caaaaakes around. They uuuuusuly walk with us whenever we go to the Royal Jelly Apiary.” Poison Mushroom Cookie tilted his head to the side, “What’s an Ape Berry?” Licorice Cookie rolled his eyes, “An Apiary, Poison Mushroom Cookie, it’s like a Jelly Bee farm. It’s where Cookies get honey and Royal Jelly from.” The Jelly Bears nodded, “Yes, indeedly, the Rooooyal Jelly Apiary is where we get the Rooooyal Jellies to make our Bear Jellies from! I thiiink I saw thooose Cooookies head that way.” Gummi raised an eyebrow, “I wonder whyyyy, they already haaaaad the Royal Jelly they stole from uuuuus.”

“Who knows but whatever the reason it’s not anything good, that’s for sure. Those Cookies seem to be under the impression that they can take whatever they want whenever they want!” Licorice Cookie explained. “And we’re going to track them down and teach them a lesson, for justice!” Dark Choco Cookie exclaimed flamboyantly. The Cake Hounds started barking. Schwarzwälder nodded, “The Cakes say they'll take the Jelly Bears back to their village. To keep them safe from any monsters.” Gummi smiled at the Pupcake at her feet. “Thanks little friend.” The Cake Hounds happily yipped in response. And so the Jelly Bears, Cakes, and Cookies parted ways. Red Velvet Cookie waved goodbye to his Cake friends and wished the Jelly Bears safe travels home. He stopped and placed his hand to his chest when a sharp pain reminded him of his battle wounds. Pomegranate Cookie noticed. “Looks like the Jelly Bears weren’t the only ones who got hurt, here, let me.” She said waving her rod. A smaller version of her spell activated and a butterfly of pink light landed on Red Velvet Cookie’s chest. He felt his breathing grow lighter and easier as the soreness disappeared. He rubbed his chest and smiled. “Wow, it doesn’t hurt anymore! Thanks, Pomegranate Cookie!” She couldn’t help but smile. Dark Choco Cookie tried to hide the fact he was rubbing his shoulder, but she still noticed.

“I think I remember seeing you get hit a couple of times too, Dark Choco Cookie,” she said, turning to the prince. He shrugged his shoulder and began to walk down the path, “Nope, I’m good.” She walked beside him, “Really? ‘Cause I remember the last time you told me you were ‘good’ you had a crack the size of your arm running down your side.” “I said I’m fine,” Dark Choco Cookie said, picking up the pace. “At least let me take a look at it!” Pomegranate Cookie said in an exasperated tone that told the others she was used to dealing with his stubbornness when it came to injuries. “Nope!” Dark Choco Cookie shouted with a mischievous smile as he broke into a run. “Dark Choco Cookie!” Pomegranate Cookie shouted running after him. “Get back here and let me heal you!”

The rest of the group laughed at the two’s antics. Red Velvet Cookie smiled at his friends, “Well, we won’t catch those Cookies just standing here. And they’ve still got a head start, so let’s boogie like the wind to catch up!” He cheered, running after Dark Choco and Pomegranate. “Last one there’s a rotten Shroomy!” Poison Mushroom Cookie cried following Red Velvet Cookie. “Hey guys! Wait for me!” Licorice Cookie called as he tried to keep up with his friends.

And so they ventured deeper into the Land of Little Big Dreams.

Chapter Text

Chiffon sniffed the air, his fur bristled and he growled softly. Schwarzwälder turned to the Cookies to relay the message, “Enemies ahead, keep your heads down.” The Cookies nodded and began to tread more lightly, clutching their weapons and staying on high-alert. The group kept to the edge of the path where the foliage gave them some cover. Soon they saw them, a small group of Cremlins standing in front of a wooden gate. Behind the gate grew giant daisy flowers that towered over the Cookies, larger than Choco trees. But there was something different about these Cremlins, normally all the gooey creatures wore was damp bandages around their bodies and carried no weapons, these wore chocolate armor and held small swords. “Something tells me these guys are going to be harder to get past than the other Cremlins we’ve fought,” Red Velvet whispered. Dark Choco Cookie narrowed his eyes and hummed thoughtfully, “That looks suspiciously like the entrance to a military camp of some sort, and those Cremlins are the guards.” Pomegranate Cookie raised an eyebrow, “Oooooor, maybe that’s just your warrior upbringing clouding your judgment. Why would the Cremlins have a military base out here?” Dark Choco Cookie sighed and looked at her out of the corner of his eye. “Trust me, Pomegranate Cookie…. I know a barrack when I see one… Even a make-shift one.”

“Do you think there’s more Cremlins hiding behind the gate?” Red Velvet asked. Dark Choco Cookie held up his sword. “It’s likely… And if we try to fight our way through them we’re likely to get ambushed.” Licorice Cookie had an idea, “Soooo, what if we ambush them first? Use the element of surprise and sneak in!” The Dark Wizard exclaimed. Dark Choco Cookie looked at the gate again, “I don’t see how we could, the area leading up to the gate is completely exposed. Even if we used the trees for cover we’d still have to cover too much distance before they noticed us.” Licorice Cookie chuckled and waved his scythe, “Watch and learn, Dark Choco Cookie, watch and learn. Licorina, Licastor, Liciam, follow my lead.” He smiled at his Minions as they readied their daggers. Licorice Cookie raised his scythe above his head, spun it a few times, and slammed the tip to the ground. A shockwave of energy coursed through the air. Once it had settled, Licorice Cookie and his Minions were nowhere to be seen. Schwarzwälder gasped loudly and began searching frantically. “Wha-What happened? Where are they? Where’d they go?” Red Velvet Cookie smiled and peeked out from behind a tree. “Don’t worry, he’s using a cloaking spell. It’s a spell that allows Dark Wizards like Licorice Cookie to blend into the shadows. Look!” He said pointing towards the treeline.

A few small shadows seemed to be moving along the ground by themselves. Occasionally disappearing within the shadow of a tree and reappearing on the other side, and slowly making their way towards the unsuspecting Cremlins guarding the gate. “The spell doesn’t last very long, but he should have enough time to get close enough without them noticing him.” Dark Choco Cookie smiled, “Amazing! Glad the Cremlins don’t have this kind of magic, you can’t fight what you can’t see.” The shadows on the ground merged with the Cremlins’ shadows. The Cremlins didn’t even flinch, one yawned into its hand and leaned on its sword in a bored fashion. “How can they not sense his presence?” Dark Choco Cookie asked. “That’s a part of the spell, their physical bodies are like… Co-existing in the Shadow Dimension or… Something… Licorice tried to explain it to me one time… I didn’t really understand it. Magic is complicated,” Red Velvet replied.

A few seconds later, Licorice Cookie appeared behind one of the Cremlins and his Minions appeared in front of the others. They didn’t have time to react before the Licorice Creatures had put their daggers through their necks and Licorice Cookie did the same by attacking from behind with his scythe. The monsters dissolved into a puddle of goo, soggy bandages, and damp chocolate armor (which also began to slowly melt into nothing.) Licorice Cookie smiled proudly at his friends and motioned for them to follow as he slowly opened the gate and peeked inside. After a few seconds, he nodded to his Minions and the three slipped inside. The rest of the gang slowly entered the gate, with Pomegranate bringing up the rear, and carefully shutting the door behind them.

The Apiary was eerily quiet. The Cookies were on high-alert for any sign of danger. They passed a few structures that looked like small towers, or hastily built huts. Empty cages lay sideways and atop one another to the sides, and flags fluttered in the wind on lopsided wooden poles. “A lot of this looks like it was built just recently, and very sloppily too, might I add. This would never do for a long-term base,” Dark Choco Cookie observed. Pomegranate placed her hand to her mouth and looked around in worry, “Look at all those cages, could they be to trap more Cake Hounds?” Licorice Cookie was focused on the flags fluttering weakly overhead. “Hey, Dark Choco Cookie, you know a lot about those things, do you know what that symbol on the flags means?” Dark Choco Cookie looked up, and shivered. Chills were sent down his spine (or the Cookie equivalent of one anyway) at the sight of the flags. “Yes,” he replied solumily. “That… Is the symbol of the Blind King.” The symbol was an eye with a red X drawn across it, the eye sat inside a symbol that could have been a flower. It was hard to tell as the quality of the drawing was not that good. It too looked as if it had been a rush job.

“Do you think the Blind King is trying to set up a base in the Land of Little Big Dreams?” Red Velvet Cookie asked. “Or his followers at least. The Blind King himself disappeared along with the Ancient Heroes years ago following the Dark Flour War. But the Cremlins’ increased activity is concerning. They may be trying to revive him, and if he returns and the Heroes have not… Earthbread is doomed.” “Hey! I just thought of something!” Pomegranate Cookie said, both because she wanted to change the doom and gloom subject and because she really had thought of something. “If the Cookies who took Bat-Cat went this way, how did they get past the Cremlins guarding the gate?” Dark Choco Cookie shrugged. “Licorice Cookie did say one of them was a Wizard, they may have found a way around. Or, considering the headstart they have on us and how recent these structures look, they could have simply gone through before the Cremlins claimed this area.”

CRASH! BANG!

Licorice Cookie let out a scream that he caught and cut off midway. Dark Choco Cookie drew his sword. Poison Mushroom Cookie hid behind Pomegranate. They all realized Red Velvet was no longer standing among the group and found him by looking in the direction of the crash. Red Velvet was hacking the discarded cages to pieces with his sword. Gritting his teeth and snarling like a wild Cake Hound. His left eye had turned black with a slitted pupil, like the eye of a predator going in for the kill. He let out a cry of rage as he swung his sword and caused one of the cages to cave in on itself, rendering it useless. The only one who was brave enough to approach him was Dark Choco Cookie. “Red Velvet Cookie, what are you doing? Stand down! You’re gonna draw the Cremlins right to us!” Red Velvet Cookie didn’t listen, he just turned to Dark Choco with fire in his eyes and breathing through his teeth. “They’re going to use these to trap more innocent Cakes with! They trapped them and left them without food or water! I can’t let them do that! I can’t let them hurt my friends again!” Dark Choco Cookie sighed, “Red Velvet Cookie, I understand your anger. But blindly succumbing to that anger can lead to great consequences. Please, calm down. I promise we’ll find those Cookies and…”

Red Velvet Cookie didn’t listen. He threw one of the cages into the air and swung his sword, sending it flying into a tree and shattering. As pieces of Candy Cane and hardened sugar rained down, a sharp piece fell on a wire so thin it was near invisible. The Cookies caught a glimpse of it as it snapped. Seconds later, horns started blaring from every direction, and Red Velvet Cookie froze. Chiffon covered his ears and whimpered. Schwarzwälder did the same, “AHHH! WHAT’S HAPPENING? WHERE’S THAT NOISE COMING FROM?!” he screamed in pain as the loud sirens hit his sensitive ears. “Red Velvet Cookie must have tripped an alarm!” Dark Choco Cookie replied, holding up his sword. “Oops,” Red Velvet Cookie said softly as he clutched his sword embarrassedly. Naturally, it didn’t take long for the Cremlins to appear. Ones in armor, brandishing swords behind normal ones wearing only wet bandages. A few Waffle Wings swooped down from the sky. The Cookies readied themselves for battle as the sirens continued to blare.

Schwarzwälder and Chiffon had been immobilized by the loud sound, so they were out of the fight at the moment. That left the five Cookies and the three Licorice Triplets to go up against the hoard of Cremlins. “I… I-I I’ve never seen so many! What do we do?” Licorice Cookie shouted, clutching his scythe. “Stay together! No retreat!” Dark Choco Cookie exclaimed. “This should help,” Pomegranate Cookie said, holding up her rod and creating shields over her teammates. Dark Choco Cookie smiled and turned back to her with a nod. The Cookies and Cremlins charged into battle.

The shields Pomegranate had put up helped for a few seconds, they at least allowed the Cookies to get a few attacks in before taking any damage themselves. Licorice Cookie sent a Shadowbolt strike through several armored Cremlins, Dark Choco Cookie cut down any Waffle Wings that tried to dive bomb him, and Poison Musroom and Red Velvet made quick work of the bandaged ones. But once the shields went down, the Cremlins had their chance to strike. The Waffle Wings dived at Dark Choco from every direction. The magic of his sword managed to keep most of them at bay, one would hit their mark with its horn now and again. The Licorice Triplets were locked in a standstill with the armored Cremlins as their swords clashed, and Licorice could only swing his scythe so fast. One Cremlin managed to sneak up behind Red Velvet Cookie and stab him in the back of his leg. He let out a cry of pain, but the injury only angered the Cake-Cookie hybrid. The pain wasn’t crippling as much as it was annoying. Seriously? Is THAT the best you can do? I’ve had my arm bitten off by a Witch. This is nothing compared to that! He felt insulted that the Cremlin seemed to think that would be enough to take him down. He responded by giving the creature a swift kick in the chest with his injured leg, which still had much more power than the creature was expecting. The blow sent her flying into another Cremlin and the two lay in a crumpled heap on the ground.

Red Velvet’s foot hurt from the recoil of the blow, but he shrugged it off. There were more important matters to attend to. I should really consider getting some proper fighting boots like Dark Choco Cookie’s got. He thought to himself as he tore apart another bandaged Cremlin with his Cake hand. Licorice Cookie cried out in pain every time one of the Cremlins landed a hit. “POMEGRANATE COOKIE!” He screamed over the blaring sirens. “Can’t you put up another shield or something!?” Pomegranate blasted a Cremlin back, “It takes a little time for the spell to cool down! I can’t do it back to back!” She shouted back. It was hard to hear over the screeching sirens, and the loud wailing noise wasn’t doing much to help Red Velvet’s anxiety about the whole situation. His head was pounding, and it was making it difficult to focus.

Poison Mushroom Cookie tossed a few explosive Shroomies. He realized Pomegranate Cookie was starting to get pushed back, her magic could only handle one Cremlin at a time, and they were starting to overpower her. He saw one lunge for her and he gasped, “Pomegranate Cookie! Look out!” He shouted. He dived into the Cremlin and it exploded while he was holding it. Causing Poison Mushroom Cookie to be knocked to the ground from the force of the blow. “Poison Mushroom Cookie! Are you alright?” Pomegranate Cookie cried, running up to him. His dough burned from being so close to the blast and he was frozen to the ground because of the Cream. “Don’t…. Touch… Me… You… Know… What will… Happen,” he said through pained breaths. Pomegranate Cookie waved her rod, preparing to perform a healing spell when a Waffle Wing slammed into her from behind. She let out a cry of pain and fell to the ground. The Cremlins then ambushed her and she too was frozen in place by Cremlin cream. Dark Choco Cookie saw the whole thing.

Seeing his friends get hurt by those monsters filled his stomach with fire. He gritted his teeth, planted his foot into the dirt, and raised his sword. It glowed with crimson light as dark clouds gathered overhead. Some of the Cremlins stopped when they noticed the dangerous glow. When he swung, crimson lightning rained down upon the monsters, reducing many of them to puddles of cream. Some let out a screech and ran. “Ha ha! They’re retreating!” Licorice Cookie cheered. “Wait a second….” Red Velvet Cookie said. The Armored Cremlins were retreating, but they also seemed to be gathering together in one place. They were removing their armor, which was strange. Once he realized what was happening it was too late.

The Armored Cremlins created a massive pile of goopy cream, their bodies fused and began to writhe as the mass’ shape became more pronounced. The armor began to fuse as well, going from being chocolate helmets and chest plates to something long and sharp. Dark Choco Cookie hissed through his teeth as memories flooded his mind. He remembered the first time he ever saw the Cremlins pull this trick. The Armored Cremlins were warriors, they were better trained than the bandaged ones and smarter than the Orges. This was their ace in the hole, their last-ditch move to claim victory before admitting defeat. The Cremlins fused into a massive version of themselves, Custard on their back became harder and sharper, two horns appeared on its forehead, a large single eye grew above its gaping maw, the armor had merged into a giant sword and sharp spines grew along the back of the monster’s arms.

A Custard Colossus.

Dark Choco Cookie was shaking now from the memories of the first time he’d went toe to toe with this breed of beast. The day his homeland fell, the day of the Dark Flour War. He shook his head. No, he couldn’t let himself get caught up in his past mistakes. The cage of regret was an easy one to fall into and a difficult one to escape. If he focused on the day he failed his people now, he would surely repeat that mistake and fail his friends. No. He had to stay focused. He steadied his breathing and readjusted his stance. “Red Velvet Cookie, Licorice Cookie…” He said softly, “Leave this one to me.” Red Velvet Cookie wanted to protest. Surely Dark Choco Cookie didn’t think he could go up against that monster all by himself. “But…” A stern look from the prince told the Cake-Cookie hybrid he wasn’t joking. Dark Choco Cookie scanned his surroundings once, locking eyes with the frozen Pomegranate Cookie for a split second. In that second, she had given him one of her reassuring smiles, the one that said, “I believe in you.” That was all he needed to repair his resolve.

The warrior gripped his sword tight, feeling its dark power flowing through his jam like the water of a river. The secret to Dark Magic was emotion. Hyper awareness and control of one’s feelings and mental state. He ran through the steps in his head as he raised his sword, its weight becoming lighter from the strengthening effects of its magic. Acknowledge. He was afraid, he was determined, he was angry. He was afraid to fail, determined to win and protect his friends, angry at the creators of the curse and all their kind that took away everything his family and ancestors had oozed and crumbled for. Feel. He didn’t push those feelings away, he focused his nervous energy on letting his training guide him on his stance and monitoring his opponent to see when and how they would strike so he could counter. Release. He put every ounce of that energy into his attack, as he charged forwards with a battle cry. Crimson lightning danced and crackled around him, singing the grass where his feet fell. The monster roared and charged him as well.

The monster swung its sword, but instead of meeting it with steel of his own, Dark Choco Cookie ducked under the attack, and spun to hit the creature in its back. The Colossus wasn’t expecting that and was caught off guard. It roared in pain but quickly turned to face the prince. Dark Choco Cookie had already jumped back several feet to stay out of the monster’s attack range. It would take a lot of hits to bring this thing down. His plan was simple: pace himself, weave in and out, avoid attacks and while it was recovering from its swing, attack it in a weak spot until it was too badly injured to continue.

It seemed to work for a few blows, Dark Choco Cookie managed to keep his movements random enough to keep the creature from reading him and knowing where to strike next. He dodged or blocked every time the creature charged, his movements were as fluid as melted chocolate. Yet strong, thanks to the magic in his sword. With every move the prince made, sparks of crimson lightning would follow, causing Dark Choco Cookie to glow with a fiery scarlet light. He lept back again to watch for the Colossus’ next move. But instead of raising its sword again, the monster closed his mouth and made a gurgling sound. A memory he had forced into the back of his mind resurfaced just in time to tell him what it was planning to do. He barely had time to throw himself out of range of the attack as the monster spit out a giant bullet of Custard Cream. He landed hard on his side and rolled to keep his momentum going. As a warrior, he knew to never stay still for even a second on the battlefield, one tiny lapse in judgment or misstep could mean the difference between victory or defeat. Life or death.

He finally got back to his feet and leapt to the side as the monster charged him. Fudge! I forgot these things can do long-ranged attacks! He slid to a halt and readjusted his grip on his sword. Well, two can play at that game. Dark Choco Cookie’s cape and hair began to flutter as a swirling wind picked up. The lightning grew brighter and the sky grew dark as it was consumed by black clouds. He lifted his sword and swung, channeling a powerful lightning spell from the blade. “Meet your end!” He shouted. Showers of electricity rained down on the Colossus. The bolts ripped several chunks of Cream off the Colossus’ limbs and left a sizable hole in its chest. But despite the fact it was swaying and gurgling in pain, it still wasn’t down for the count. Dark Choco Cookie could feel his energy beginning to wane. Both he and his opponent were breathing heavily. Dirt stained Dark Choco Cookie’s cape and face and Cream pooled at the monster’s feet from its injuries. They stared into each other’s eye, sizing the other up, waiting to see who would make the first move.

Then… Dark Choco Cookie realized something. The Colossus was no longer looking at him, it was looking to his side, behind him. Dark Choco Cookie’s heart skipped a beat as the monster charged, but it wasn’t charging for him. It veered off heading towards…. “Pomegranate Cookie!” The monster had decided to target the trapped Priestess and Poison Mushroom Cookie instead of going for another strike. Dark Choco Cookie acted before he could think. His body seemed to move on its own accord as he leapt in between the monster’s path and his friends, plunging his sword into the monster’s stomach. Stopping it in its tracks. But when Dark Choco Cookie realized what he’d done it was too late. The monster let out a gurgling laugh as the warrior slowly looked up at the creature and locked eyes with it. His sword was stuck in the monster’s abdomen, and he was right in front of it, unable to move.

He’d fallen right into its trap.

Dark Choco Cookie’s scarlet eye widened with fear as he stood frozen, helpless, as the monster raised its free hand and knocked him back. Dark Choco Cookie screamed in pain as the blow created a large crack down his side, which only got bigger when he hit the ground. He curled into a ball, unable to breathe, writhing in pain from the attack and groaning loudly. “Dark Choco Cookie!” Pomegranate Cookie shouted. Red Velvet Cookie’s eyes widened in horror at the sight of his friend beaten and laying battered on the ground. He was also covered in Cremlin Cream now, trapping him in his helpless position on the ground. The Colossus laughed evilly and pulled Dark Choco Cookie’s sword from its stomach. It tossed it on the ground next to the warrior. The sword’s glow seemed to taunt the young prince. It was so close, and yet… Even if he wasn’t frozen in place by the sticky cream, he wasn’t sure he had the strength to rise. Pomegranate Cookie watched as the monster turned to the last two Cookies, Red Velvet and Licorice.

She raised her rod as best she could considering she was still stuck in the cream, and tried to cast a shield spell over her friends, maybe that would give them enough time to finish it off. Dark Choco Cookie had already done considerable damage, just one more good blow in the right place should finish it off. But as she tried to summon her magic, the spell just sputtered and fizzled out at the tip of her rod. “Guys! My… My magic isn’t working!” She shouted. “I… I-I think it’s the cream! It’s absorbing my power somehow!” There was one other thing to worry about. More bandaged Cremlins had appeared, and they were carrying something in their hands. Bandages, just like the ones they wore, but with one difference. The runes on these bandages were glowing with a soft yellow and blue light. Red Velvet Cookie remembered Dark Choco Cookie telling him about the curse. And how the bandages that held it glowed in those exact colors. The Cremlins stood behind the Colossus as the giant raised its sword. And Red Velvet Cookie understood, once the Colossus had him and Licorice captured, the Cremlins would rush in to place them under the curse.

His sword grew heavy in his hands, his legs grew weak and his heart began to race. Dark Choco Cookie couldn’t take that thing down, and he was an experienced warrior. There was only one other time Red Velvet Cookie had felt this scared, back at the Witch’s House, when he was trapped in her death grip. Is this it? Are we all going to die here? No, worse… We’re going to lose our minds and free will. That’s a fate worse than death. Will I even be aware of it or…. Or will I be trapped in my own mind? Unable to control my actions and… Red Velvet Cookie shook his head. No. Don’t think like that. He forced his arms to raise his sword and his Cake hand to curl into a claw. He forced himself to move, despite his fear. I’m not giving up yet! I won’t give up! If I’m gonna go down… I’m gonna go down fighting! He could hear Licorice Cookie hyperventilating behind him. The Cake-Cookie hybrid turned to see Licorice frozen in place, clutching his scythe close to his chest, tears streaming down his face as his chest racked with broken breaths. “Licorice Cookie! Listen to me!” The Dark Wizard shakily turned his head towards his friend. “It’s up to us now! As long as we’re still standing we’ve still got a chance!”

Licorice Cookie’s eyes darted back and forth between the monster, who was standing triumphantly, waiting for the Cookies to make the first move, and Red Velvet Cookie. Licorice was in panic mode right now, and when he panicked his breathing became too rough for him to speak properly, so he could only shake his head and let out a few wheezing breaths. “Do it for me!” Red Velvet Cookie shouted, “Do it for our friends!” He said waving his hand towards the captured Cookies. Licorice still didn’t seem properly convinced, so Red Velvet tried one last thing.

“Do it for Bat-Cat!”

Licorice Cookie’s breath caught in his throat. If he fell now… There would be no one to rescue Bat-Cat from those Cookies. He would never see his pet again and who knows what would happen to him. He thought of his pet calling out to him just before those Cookies disappeared into the fog. Slowly his breathing returned to normal, he blinked the tears out of his eyes as the fear melted away from his expression and was replaced with a hard glare. His Minions noticed the shift in their Master’s stance and followed suit. A dark aura surrounded him like a veil. The shadows responded to the Dark Wizard’s emotions, flowing around him like ripples in water. And he slowly raised his scythe.

The Colossus took this as a cue to attack. It roared and charged forwards. Red Velvet readied his sword to block the attack, but the monster never reached him. Something leapt in front of the Cake-Cookie hybrid and knocked the monster back. Red Velvet Cookie gasped, “Choco Werehound Brute!” The Werehound turned to face him with a smile, swinging his hammer over his shoulder. Chiffon ran up to his side, barking loudly. Red Velvet Cookie realized he didn’t hear the alarm horns anymore, in fact, he hadn’t heard them since Dark Choco Cookie’s lightning storm attack. He must have knocked out the alarm system, and without the noise to immobilize the Cakes, that meant they were back in the fight. “Sorry you had to hold ‘em off on your own for so long,” Schwarzwälder said. “Don’t worry about it,” Red Velvet Cookie said with a smile. “Perfect timing, Schwarzwälder!” Licorice Cookie cheered. The Werehound turned back to the monster, who was growling and taking some time to recover from the blow.

“You have to take out the Colossus! If you defeat it, the other Cremlins will retreat!” Dark Choco Cookie shouted. “PLEASE HURRY!” Pomegranate Cookie shouted. The Cremlins were starting to advance, growing closer and closer with the Cursed Bandages every passing second. “Liciam, Licastor, Licorina! Don’t let those Cremlins get too close to our friends!” Licorice Cookie shouted at the triplets. They nodded and rushed to the captured Cookies’ sides. “Go and help them, Chiffon. We’ll take care of the big one,” Red Velvet Cookie said. Chiffon barked and wagged his tail. Rushing over to help protect his friends. The Colossus stamped its foot on the ground and lowered its head, growling softly. Schwarzwälder stood between the monster and the Cookies. “Red! I have an idea!” Licorice Cookie cried. “I’m all ears,” Red Velvet Cookie replied.

Licorice Cookie pointed his scythe outwards, darkness seemed to dance around him as the shadows reacted to the Wizard’s command. His robes fluttered in the wind as a swirling breeze blew around him.

“Heart of ichor, heartless claws. Screams of silence, silence calls. Be cast into nothingness and fall, fall into the abyss’ maw!”

The monster charged, but one of its steps didn’t hit solid ground. It was thrown off balance as a void appeared beneath it, filled with some thick, black, oily substance, it seemed to be pulling it in. The only problem was the portal was only big enough to trap the monster halfway, one foot was still planted on solid ground. “Red Velvet Cookie, now! Strike while I’ve got it immobilized! I… I can’t keep the spell up forever!” Licorice Cookie was visibly sweating and his scythe was shaking violently in his hands. Red Velvet knew he had to act fast, but how could he get enough force to finish it off in one blow? Then, he had an idea. “Choco Werehound, throw me!” Schwarzwälder wondered if he heard him correctly, “What?” he replied dumbly. “Just do it!” Red Velvet Cookie said, waving his sword and pointing at the stuck Colossus. The Brute sort of understood, besides there wasn’t any time to argue, Licorice Cookie couldn’t keep up a spell that strong forever. So he placed his hands under Red Velvet’s arms and lifted him up. Red Velvet adjusted his grip on his sword, they only had one shot at this, and the monster was failing and struggling to get free. This wouldn’t be easy, but he had to try. His friends were counting on him.

Schwarzwälder put all his strength in launching Red Velvet toward the monster. But by the time the Colossus realized a Cookie was flying through the air towards it, it was too late. Red Velvet had already swung, slicing his sword through the monster’s neck. It wasn’t a perfect cut, he only managed to damage half of its neck rather than a clean cut all the way through like he’d intended, but what damage was done seemed to do the trick. Red Velvet curled into a ball and rolled to reduce the recoil of the impact, dropping his sword and landing on his back with an “Oomph!” He could hear the monster roaring and gurgling, he looked up to see it flailing about and trying to stop the oozing from its injury. Licorice Cookie finally collapsed to the ground and the spell released the monster. It teetered, swayed, let out a gurgling attempt at a roar. And finally, fell to the ground, and dissolved into a puddle of goo with a hissing sound.

The Cremlins paused. One stepped back, and then turned tail and ran away with a screech. The others soon followed suit. The Cookies waited with bated breath. But soon, all was quiet and still and the sky seemed to clear. Sunlight warmed the clearing, and Red Velvet Cookie stood up and smiled. “WE DID IT!” He shouted, fist-pumping the air. “WOOO! WE DID IT! WE DID IT! WE DID IT! That was amazing! Did you guys see me? I was like, ‘whoosh’! And the monster was all ‘AAAARGGGGUHHH!’” “Great job, Red!” Licorice Cookie exclaimed from his position on the ground. He was laying on his stomach with his scythe resting weakly in one of his hands. “Couldn’t have done it without you, buddy,” Red Velvet replied, walking up to him and offering his hand. Licorice Cookie took it and Red Velvet helped him to his feet. “You did great too, Schwarzwälder,” Licorice Cookie said, smiling at the Werehound. Schwarzwälder beamed with pride. “I think you all fought very bravely,” Pomegranate Cookie added. “Yay! Red Velvet and Licorice Cookie saved the day!” Poison Mushroom cheered. “Quite an impressive strategy, especially for being made up on the spot with no prior communication about the plan. Kudos, now um… Do you think you can help us out of this?” Dark Choco Cookie said, referring to their still stuck state. “Oh yeah, I almost forgot. C’mon, Choco Werehound Brute,” Red Velvet said, trotting over to his friends to help get them unstuck.

As soon as Poison Mushroom Cookie was free, he ran up to Licorice and Red Velvet and hugged them tight. “You guys were AMAZING!” Licorice Cookie chuckled, “Aw, it was nothing.” Red Velvet Cookie smiled at the Dark Wizard, “We make a pretty good team, huh?” Licorice Cookie held up his hand, “You bet we do!” the two high-fived and laughed. But while the trio was celebrating their victory, Pomegranate and Dark Choco Cookie were engaged in a much more solemn conversation. “You saw them too, right?” He asked her. She nodded, “Are you sure… They were carrying the curse? Like the actual curse?” He sighed as she tended to his injuries, “I’d never forget the sight of those things as long as I live. It is just as I feared. The Cremlins are trying to spread the curse again. That’s why they’re attacking Cookies, they’re trying to immobilize them so they can place them under the spell. Urk!”

“Hold still,” Pomegranate Cookie said softly as she waved her rod over his cracked arm, “You shouldn’t have tried to go up against that thing alone!” Dark Choco Cookie gave an indignant huff, “I’m a warrior, Pomegranate Cookie. I should have been able to handle that thing,” he said, mentally kicking himself for his failure. “Warrior or not, everybody needs help sometimes. Your stubborn will is gonna get you killed one of these days, and I get it, warrior’s honor and all that. The greatest way to die is on the battlefield. But that doesn’t mean you have to rush it. Licorice and Red Velvet only won by working together. You can’t make an army with just one Cookie after all,” she said with a smile. Dark Choco Cookie stared at her in silence, contemplating her words. He looked back at the two Cookies who were laughing and cheering their victory. He smiled, “You know, you just might be right,” he said with a soft chuckle. Once Pomegranate Cookie had finished the healing spell, Dark Choco Cookie stood up and walked over to them.

“I must say, Red Velvet Cookie, you are quite full of surprises. You know, with a little training I believe you have the skills to become an excellent warrior!” Red Velvet Cookie’s eyes widened slightly, “You mean like you?” Dark Choco Cookie nodded. “I’ve trained many Cookies under my wing but very few have shown the potential you possess. I believe with the right tutoring you could become a very skilled swordsman.” Red Velvet Cookie played with the idea in his mind a bit. Him, a warrior just like Dark Choco Cookie, dressed in armor and standing between his home, his friends, and whatever danger dared to face him. He realized something… He needed a new goal. A new dream. Before, it had been to escape and find the Cookie Paradise with his friends. But with that dream now a reality, it was time to move on to the next big step. He realized he hadn’t known what that was. He never knew what to write on a Wish Script. He loved hearing about his friends’ passions, but when he was asked what his passion was, he could only shrug in response.

But now he realized something…. His friends…. They were his passion. Helping them grow and protecting them. Encouraging them to follow their dreams and sharing their smiles and laughter when they were realized. If he were a warrior like Dark Choco Cookie, he could do that and so much more. (And besides that, he really admired the young prince. He was just so cool! The thought of training under him was really exciting.) Red Velvet Cookie smiled, “You know what? Yeah! That’s just what I’m gonna do! I’m gonna become a warrior!”

Licorice and Poison Mushroom seemed a bit surprised. “Wow, so sudden. Are you sure you don’t wanna think about that a little bit more, Red Velvet Cookie?” Licorice asked. Red Velvet rolled his eyes, “How much thinking did it take you to figure out you wanted to be a Wizard?” he replied. Licorice Cookie’s answer was none. He chuckled softly, “Ok, ok, you got me there.” “He’s already REALLY good with that sword of his!” Schwarzwälder added. “The Cake hand helps as well,” Pomegranate Cookie chimed in. “He’s brave, selfless, and has a strong sense of justice. All qualities of a natural-born warrior!” Dark Choco Cookie added. Red Velvet Cookie spun his sword around and planted it into the dirt the way he’d seen Dark Choco Cookie do. He placed his fist on his hip and smiled proudly. Yes. Becoming a warrior definitely felt right. “How soon can we begin training?” Red Velvet Cookie asked with sparkling eyes, growing ever the more excited by the idea. “As soon as we complete our current mission. It would seem that the Cremlins have fled this area, meaning we should be able to walk through the Apiary without getting ambushed,” Dark Choco Cookie said.

Red Velvet Cookie looked at the piles of cages strewn about, “Does that mean we can break those now?” he asked. Schwarzwälder shouted, “As long as you don’t go tripping any more alarms!” Chiffon barked in agreement. Red Velvet Cookie rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly and the other Cookies laughed. And so, the small band of desserts made their way through the Apiary, smashing cages and tearing down the buildings the Cremlins had put up to ensure they couldn’t be used again. Dark Choco Cookie seemed to really enjoy cutting down their flagpoles and watching their banners fall. “Heads up!” Pomegranate Cookie shouted, tossing a cage into the air with her magic, which Licorice Cookie sent a Shadowbolt blast through. Causing the cage to explode into tiny pieces. “Bull’s eye!” The Dark Wizard cheered, fist-pumping with his free hand. Chiffon was engaged in a game of Tug-o-war with the Licorice triplets and a fallen flag. (Chiffon was winning despite there being only one of him and three of them.)

Poison Mushroom Cookie was carefully planting an explosive Shroomy near the base of a tower to blow it up, when he felt a sharp pain in his neck and cried out, instinctively smacking his neck. “OW! OOOoowwww! Owie!” Licorice Cookie heard the poor Cookie’s cries and rushed over to help him. “Poison Mushroom Cookie! A-are you ok? Did you hurt yourself?” He cried, looking him over for any sign of injury. “Something bit me,” Poison Mushroom Cookie lamented, rubbing the sore spot on his neck and blinking back tears. “Let me see,” Licorice said softly, gently removing Poison Mushroom’s hand from his neck. There was a large red whelp on his neck where his hand originally was. Poison Mushroom Cookie watched the Dark Wizard’s expression with worry. “Is it… Bad?” Licorice Cookie blinked and waved his hand dismissively. “It’s not too bad… It’s… Too big to be a mosquito bite though… I wonder what… OW!” Licorice Cookie cried, smacking his cheek as he too felt a sharp stinging sensation. The other Cookies started to get stung as well. Red Velvet yelped in shock as a sudden pain shot through both his arms in different places. Chiffon yelped loudly and ran under Red Velvet’s cape to hide. “What’s that noise?” Pomegranate Cookie said, rubbing her injured neck. The rest of the group heard it too. A strange buzzing sound. Then, Red Velvet Cookie saw it. The source of both the sound and the stinging. “AH! What is that!?” He shouted, pointing at the largest bug he’d ever seen in his entire life. It was round, with black and yellow stripes and sported a large, sharp stinger. “Jelly Bees?” Dark Choco Cookie said. Crying out in pain when one stung him as it flew by. Then another Bee appeared, then another, then several more. All of them were heading for the group and stabbing them with their tiny stingers in any place that wasn’t covered.

“OW! OW! OW! HEY! Stop that!” Licorice Cookie shouted at the Bees, “First Cremlins, now Bees. C’mon! I’m just trying to get Bat-Cat back! Can’t a guy catch a brea— YYYYAAAAAHHHEEEEAAA! OH MY GOSH, I THINK ONE FLEW IN MY MOUTH!” Licorice Cookie screamed, failing about and pulling his hood down over his face as far as it would go. Red Velvet picked up Chiffon and tried to shield him with his body from the onslaught of stinging insects. The buzzing had grown deafening now, as a cloud of Jelly Bees descended upon the Cookies and Cakes. “OW! OW! OW! PAIN! TOO MUCH PAIN!” Schwarzwälder shouted, dropping to the ground and covering his eyes. “AH! AAAHH! H-hey, why are they attacking us?!” Pomegranate Cookie shouted. “I don’t know!” Dark Choco Cookie said, covering his mouth with his cape, trying to keep the Bees out of his mouth as he spoke. “Jelly Bees don’t usually attack unless they’re provoked!”

“OW! OW! OW! WELL THESE GUYS ARE CLEARLY PROVOKED! AAAAAAAHHHHHHHH! IT WENT IN MY MOUTH AGAIN!” Licorice Cookie shouted. “Ow! Hey! Stop it! Shoo! Stop being mean to my friends!” Poison Mushroom Cookie cried, trying to swat the Bees away. That seemed to only make them angrier. “H-hang on!” Pomegranate Cookie said, raising her rod. The pain stopped suddenly as Pomegranate Cookie’s magic created a shield around each of her friends, pushing the Bees back. The insects glared at the Cookies from the other side of the shield, some started ramming against it in an effort to get to them and continue their attack. Red Velvet Cookie hugged Chiffon tight as the Pupcake whimpered softly. “Ok, that’ll keep ‘em back…. For a few seconds. My shields don’t last long,” she said softly. “Anybody got an idea? I’m open to suggestions,” Licorice Cookie asked. “Yeah, I’ve got one,” Red Velvet Cookie replied.

“RUN!”

The Cookies all broke into a mad dash to get away from the Jelly Bees. The Bees buzzed angrily and chased after them. “What do we do? These shields aren’t gonna last forever and I don’t think we can outrun them!” Licorice Cookie shouted. “We could find a lake or something and jump in! We could hide from them until they leave!” Pomegranate Cookie suggested. Dark Choco Cookie shook his head. “That won’t work, they’ll just wait for us to resurface and attack again!” Suddenly Poison Mushroom Cookie let out a cry. Licorice Cookie looked behind him and gasped when he realized Poison Mushroom Cookie had tripped and fallen. Even worse, the shields went down at the worst possible moment. Licorice stopped in his tracks. The Bees had noticed the fallen Cookie and were headed straight for him. “Poison Mushroom Cookie!” Licorice Cookie shouted. The fungus flavored Cookie could only watch in horror as the swarm drew closer and closer to him. Tears filled his eyes and he found himself frozen in fear. Suddenly he felt himself being lifted up and surrounded by a familiar soft white fabric. Licorice Cookie had turned back to shield Poison Mushroom Cookie with his body. He stretched his hood over his face and placed Poison Mushroom Cookie in his lap. He wrapped his arms around him and pressed his head against his chest. Praying that the thick fabric of his oversized robes would be enough to protect them both. Or at least protect Poison Mushroom.

He gritted his teeth and braced for the intense stinging sensation of the Bees’ attack… But it never came. Licorice Cookie slowly became aware of two things. One, enough time had passed that the Bees should have attacked, but they hadn’t. And two, he heard something. It sounded like… Music. A faint melody drifting through the air. He slowly looked up and saw the Jelly Bees hovering in midair, not moving, not attacking. They too had noticed the music and it seemed to have calmed them. They just hovered there, buzzing and listening to the tune. Licorice Cookie slowly and cautiously stood up, clutching Poison Mushroom close to him. He began to back away, never taking his eyes off the swarm of Jelly Bees. Soon the Bees began to move again, but not towards the Cookies, towards the music.

They flew past them, seeming to have forgotten about the Cookies entirely until they disappeared completely. The group stood there, breathing heavily and thanking their lucky stars for the timely, though bizarre, rescue. Licorice Cookie breathed a sigh of relief. “A-are they gone?” Poison Mushroom Cookie whimpered softly. Licorice Cookie patted his head, “Yeah… They’re gone, little buddy.” Poison Mushroom lifted his head and smiled weakly, before hugging Licorice Cookie tight. The Dark Wizard just chuckled and cradled him close, thankful that neither of them were badly hurt.

“Do you guys hear that?” Pomegranate Cookie said. “Yeah, I think I hear someone singing,” Red Velvet Cookie added. The music was louder and more clear now, and among the song was a voice, singing in harmony with the tune. Chiffon barked and jumped out of Red Velvet Cookie’s arms before running down the path towards the sound. “Ah! Chiffon! Wait!” Red Velvet Cookie shouted, running after him. Red Velvet followed the Pupcake, until he reached a small clearing. He stood at the tree line and watched as Chiffon ran up to join a small group of forest creatures who were sitting in an imperfect circle around a Cookie who sat atop a tree stump.

The Cookie was plucking a stringed instrument and singing with his eyes closed, completely lost in the moment. The creatures sat around him, seemingly in a trance as they listened to his voice and beautiful music. He wore all green, even his hat and lute were green. He had white hair that swayed in the wind as he bobbed his head to the rhythm of the song.

“Do you wonder why the sky cries, though its tears, it brings forth greener life? Or when it cries, does it even know?”

“We never listen for the songs around us until the sound is still. We never see what our life is worth and perhaps we never will. If everything plays a grander part in a fate we’ll never meet… Is my destiny to fade away, have a goal I’ll never reach?”

“Am I incomplete?”

The animals sat quietly, some swaying in time to the music, others laying on the ground. Red Velvet Cookie realized that the Jelly Bees were there as well, surrounding the Cookie, seemingly calmed by the melody. The Cookie plucked at the strings harder as the song crescendoed, his voice echoing through the trees and being carried by the wind. As if the forest was singing along

“And though the sky still cries, and the flowers die, the sun can’t shine if the rains don’t pass by. Flowers die, but still they find new life. And though I may not shine as bright as the stars I refuse to let my fate be set by my scars. I’ll carry on, and I’ll do it just for me. And I’ll be complete.”

He stood as he sang the last verse, lowering his head with the final note and letting it fade.

“We never listen for the songs around us until the sound is still. We never see what our life is worth and perhaps we never will. If everything plays a grander part in a fate we’ll never meet. I will not let my days slip away, I will rise up on two feet. And I’ll be complete.”

Red Velvet Cookie hadn’t noticed that he too had become transfixed by the beautiful melody. He’d been standing there watching and listening just as the creatures had. He suddenly realized his friends were standing around him, they had also been intently listening. The Cookie finally opened his eyes and smiled at the small audience of animals that surrounded him. His bright blue eyes scanned over them before resting on the cloud of Jelly Bees. “Did you enjoy my song, little friends?” The Bees buzzed happily. “Oh good, you all seemed so upset. I was so worried,” he said gently, holding his hand out and letting one of the Bees rest on it. He smiled at the little creature in his hand and it seemed to smile back. At this moment, Chiffon decided to notice Red Velvet Cookie and his friends and run up to them, barking all the while.

This alerted the green clad Cookie to the group’s presence. He seemed surprised to see them, but he smiled nevertheless. “Oh, it seems my audience was a bit larger than I expected.” Red Velvet Cookie picked up Chiffon and smiled sheepishly. “Sorry, we didn’t mean to intrude.” The Cookie waved his hand and chuckled warmly, “Oh, it’s no problem. I love sharing my songs with everyone. Oh, where are my manners? My name is Clover Cookie, what’s yours?” Red Velvet smiled and introduced himself and his friends. “It’s a good thing you decided to play that when you did,” Licorice Cookie added. “Those vicious Jelly Bees almost made Cookie crumbs outta us!” Clover Cookie seemed startled. “My friends aren’t vicious! I mean… Sure, they have very powerful stingers, especially if they all work together, but they would only use them to defend their home,” he insisted.

“Well, we didn’t do anything to their home and they attacked us for no reason!” Licorice Cookie cried. “I’m sure there’s an explanation. Right, Beezee?” He said to the tiny creature in his hand. The Jelly Bee buzzed and Clover Cookie nodded. “I see,” he said softly. “Wait… You can understand them?” Licorice Cookie asked. Clover nodded, “Of course. They’re my friends after all. It would only make sense that I take the time to learn their language. What? Uh-huh, I see. Oh. I’m so sorry to hear that. That’s terrible!”

“Um… Do you mind translating for the Cookies who don’t speak Jelly Bee?” Red Velvet asked. Clover Cookie nodded and said, “Beezee said that some Cookies ran through here and destroyed their homes and stole all their honey and Royal Jelly. And then those monsters appeared and took over the Apiary. They must of thought you all were those same Cookies.” Red Velvet thought about this for a moment. “Yeah, I guess we can’t blame them then if you guys were just trying to protect your home.”

“EXCUSE ME! I’ve got Bee stings in places I’d rather not mention because of them and they STILL hurt like heck!” Licorice Cookie shouted. The Jelly Bees flew off in droves, disappearing into the trees. “Yeah! That’s right! Scram! Get outta here!” Licorice Cookie shouted at the departing Bees. “Licorice, come on now, they were just scared. We would have probably done the same thing,” Pomegranate Cookie reasoned. Licorice Cookie huffed and crossed his arms over his chest, which gave him a burning sensation in his arms where he’d been stung. He winced and unfolded them. Clover Cookie was looking off in the direction the Bees had gone. “Oh my, I hope we didn’t hurt their feelings.” “Their feelings?” Licorice Cookie said incredulously. Dark Choco Cookie placed a hand over Licorice Cookie’s mouth before he could go any farther. “Your music was quite lovely, Clover Cookie,” he said in a desperate attempt to change the subject. Clover Cookie smiled, “Oh, thank you! I’m so glad you enjoyed it!”

“It was quite pretty, not just the music but the words as well. Where did you learn that?” Pomegranate Cookie asked. Clover Cookie strummed the strings of his lute. “It was a story I heard a long time ago. You see, every Cookie has a story, and some stories are so inspiring that I just can’t help but turn them into songs. Speaking of which, what’s your story? If you don’t mind sharing. What brings you to the Land of Little Big Dreams?” Red Velvet had to admit, their story was a long one so he tried to keep it short as best he could with his friends chiming in every now and again.

He told Clover about how he and his friends had escaped from the Witch’s House and how he lost his arm. How they discovered the Kingdom and decided to restore it. How Bat-Cat had been kidnapped and how they met Dark Choco and Pomegranate Cookie. Clover Cookie listened with wide-eyed fascination at every detail. “How exciting! It sounds almost like the beginning of a grand legend of old!” Clover Cookie cried. Red Velvet rubbed the back of his neck, “Well, I don’t think our story will ever be good enough to be a legend or anything like that.” Clover strummed his lute again, “I imagine the Five Ancient Heroes felt the same way when they took their first steps on their grand adventures. Your story is the most fascinating one I’ve come across in quite some time. My, my, I can just feel a melody beginning to form. Hmmmm…. But…. It’s still unfinished… Just notes at the moment,” he said, closing his eyes and then opening them. “Ah, of course… It’s because your story has only just begun to be written. But even still, the loyalty you show to your friend. Being willing to go to such lengths to rescue him, it’s truly awe-inspiring.”

Licorice Cookie shifted slightly, he didn’t think it was “awe-inspiring”. He just wanted his friend back. “Yeah, that’s nice and all. And speaking of which, we have to get back to writing that story, preferably with an ending where we kick those Cookies’ butts and get Bat-Cat back home safely. So nice meeting you, thank you for rescuing us, but we have got to get go— AH THE BEES ARE BACK!” Licorice Cookie shouted, he was turning to leave but was blocked by a wall of Jelly Bees who were staring at the group. Licorice Cookie hid behind Schwarzwälder, “Clover Cookie! Quick! Play your song again!” Clover Cookie laughed, “Oh ho ho ho, that’s not necessary. They’ve calmed down now, they won’t hurt you.” Licorice Cookie seemed unconvinced as he watched Clover Cookie walk up to the Jelly Bees. “Oh, Queen Appasis, a pleasure to see you again.” He said, bending on one knee in a quick bow to one Jelly Bee who was much larger than the others. She also wore a tiny golden crown on her head and carried a tiny ruby scepter in her hand. Red Velvet stood next to Clover Cookie. Clover smiled and said, “Red Velvet Cookie, this is Queen Appasis, she’s the Queen Bee of her hive.” The Queen Bee buzzed and waved her scepter. Red Velvet smiled and tried to bend his knees the way he’d seen Clover Cookie do. “A pleasure to meet you, your majesty.”

“Red Velvet Cookie…. You’re bowing to a bug,” Licorice Cookie mumbled. “A royal bug, Licorice Cookie. Show some respect,” Red Velvet whispered over his shoulder. The Queen Bee buzzed a few times and Clover Cookie nodded. “She wanted to apologize for her people attacking you earlier. The hive has been in a bit of a frenzy since their home was destroyed.” Pomegranate Cookie smiled, “It’s no problem. Besides, I can help heal any of my friends’ injuries lickety-split!” She said, waving her rod and casting her Nature's Blessing spell. Red Velvet could feel the burning feeling disappearing from his earlier injuries. Queen Appasis started buzzing again. “She also wanted to warn you, there are more hives up ahead and they were likely destroyed too. The other hives might try to attack you,” Clover Cookie explained. Licorice Cookie groaned loudly, “Great, more Bees… That means getting stung again.” Red Velvet Cookie placed his hand to his chin in thought.

“Hey! I just had an idea! Clover Cookie, you calmed the Jelly Bees down earlier with your song, remember? Will it work on the other hives as well?” Red Velvet said. Clover Cookie smiled and held up his lute, “Of course! All my friends love my music! I’m sure I know a few songs that will help them relax.” “Then why don’t you come with us? You can use your music to keep the Jelly Bees from attacking while we travel through the Apiary,” Red Velvet Cookie suggested. Clover Cookie grinned from ear to ear. “I’ve heard many tales of grand adventures before, but it’s been a long time since I’ve gotten to be a part of one!” He exclaimed excitedly. “We’d love for you to come along! The more the merrier, right Poison Mushroom Cookie?” Pomegranate Cookie said, turning to the fungus flavored Cookie. “Yay! Our new friend is going to help us!” He cheered.

“Clover Cookie, you know the Apiary best, so you should lead the way,” Dark Choco Cookie said. “I shall do my best,” Clover Cookie said, tipping his hat, and strumming on his lute. Picking out the perfect song to play as they marched through the Apiary. The Cookies set off again with Clover Cookie leading the way, and it wasn’t long before the others’ voices joined the song.

And so, the merry group set off once again. The Jelly Bees waved goodbye and buzzed good luck as they departed. Clover Cookie’s song echoed through the air as their voices rose in a hopeful harmony. Off on the next leg of their great adventure.

Chapter Text

“Get… Over…. Here you stupid cat!” Chili Pepper Cookie shouted as she chased Bat-Cat around the small clearing. Bat-Cat’s wing may have been injured, but he could still run on all fours. But he could only go so far without hitting one of the walls of the magical barrier Wizard Cookie had put up around the clearing. That was as much help as Chili Pepper was going to get from the Wizard as he was now leaning against a tree and eating the honey they’d stolen from the Apiary. It wasn’t much, but it put food in his empty stomach. And besides, once they got the Royal Jellies back to base he could get the Cremlins to make some Bear Jellies of their own. “WIZARD COOKIE! Help me get the gem from this stupid Cat!” Chili Pepper shouted as she cornered him. Bat-Cat hissed loudly and flexed his claws, right now that was the only thing preventing her from cutting him to ribbons with her Chili Pepper Dagger. Chili Pepper Cookie stood over him with her dagger ready to strike. She was covered in bites and scratches from her failed attempts at getting the gem from him. Wizard Cookie yawned loudly and wiped his mouth with his scarf. “I would, Chili Pepper, but I’m famished right now. If someone hadn’t eaten all the Bear Jellies earlier, then maybe I’d be more fighting fit. You’re lucky I had enough energy to put up the shield.” Maestro Sugar Gnome watched the scene unfold from his spot next to the stolen crown. He struggled against his restraints, hoping against hope he could get free while they were distracted. He finally gave up with a sigh, he was sweating heavily and out of breath. Even if he did escape the ropes, he’d have to escape the dome of magic Wizard Cookie had put over them. And without any magic of his own, that would be a hopeless endeavor.

A screaming Cremlin suddenly crashed into the outside of the barrier and fell on its back. Chili Pepper, Wizard Cookie, and Bat-Cat paused to look at the whimpering creature. Wizard Cookie rolled his eyes and created a small hole in the forcefield in front of the Cremlin. The Cremlin raised its head and stood up. The hole in the barrier closed behind it as it walked into the clearing, rubbing its hands together nervously. Wizard Cookie stood up as the creature walked up to him with its head bowed. “What is it?” Wizard Cookie demanded. The Creature whimpered and rocked back and forth on its feet. Wizard Cookie took out his Candy Wand and drew a magical glowing circle in the ground. The Cremlin bent down and began to write in the circle with its hand. A trail of glowing blue light would follow its hand wherever it went. Wizard Cookie watched as it drew out a message in runes and symbols. That was the only language the creatures knew how to speak or write.

Wizard Cookie had to read the message over a few times to make sure he hadn’t misread it. “WHAT?!?!” He shouted angrily. The creature shuddered and backed away. Not wanting to be at the receiving end of one of his magic blasts. “How could you incompetent Custard Brains let this happen!?” He shouted at the frightened creature. “What happened?” Chili Pepper asked. Wizard Cookie growled and turned to her, “The new base has been compromised.” “WHAT?” Chili Pepper shouted in disbelief. “How is that even possible! What could have taken down an entire army of Cremlins?” Wizard Cookie turned back to the message and sighed, “Remember those Cookies from the kingdom?” “The one wearing rags and his friends that tried to stop us back at the castle?” Chili Pepper replied, placing a hand on her hip. “Meowster?” Bat-Cat breathed. Wizard Cookie nodded. “They brought a couple of friends, turns out they’re going to be more of a problem then we thought they’d be. They took down a Colossus, ransacked the base, and… OH YOU’VE GOTTA BE KIDDING ME! They released the Cake Hounds!?!?” Wizard Cookie shouted at the Cremlin. The shaking creature lowered its head and nodded timidly. Maestro Sugar Gnome couldn’t believe his ears, he was relieved and overjoyed of course, he knew he was forced but he still felt an immense guilt from being the one responsible for the creation of the cages that trapped the Cakes.

This is when Bat-Cat decided to speak up. “Haha! I knew it! I knew it! I knew it! I knew Meowster would come to save me! And when he and his friends get here they’re gonna give you two what for!” Chili Pepper turned to the winged cat with her arms crossed over her chest. “Shut your big mouth, Meowth.” She sighed and turned back to Wizard Cookie, “So what do we do now? Our forces have been pretty much wiped out and those Cookies are going to be coming for him.” Despite the severity of the situation. Wizard Cookie didn’t seem worried, in fact. The look of contemplation on his face was oddly calm. She could see him smiling underneath his scarf. “You know what, Chili Pepper Cookie? Why don’t we give them what they want?” Bat-Cat tilted his head in confusion, they were up to something he just knew it. “Huh?” Chili Pepper wondered. “Trust me, put him back in his cage, I have an idea.” She knew from the look on his face what he was thinking and turned back to Bat-Cat with a sinister smirk on her face. Bat-Cat pressed his ears against his head in fear, he whimpered softly as Chili Pepper grew closer to him. Wizard Cookie’s insane laughter rang in his ears as he saw the cage they’d used to hold him levitate into his range of view, surrounded by a blue aura of magic.

Oh, Meowster…. Please hurry. Please, please save me.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Clover Cookie skipped in front as he strummed his lute. Any creatures that recognized the tune happily followed after him. Any angry Jelly Bee was soothed by the chipper tune and his familiar joyful voice. He’d played the song enough times now that the other Cookies had learned the words and were singing along.

“We are fighting dreamers, in each other we believe in! Oli, oli, oli, oh! Just go my way!” Clover Cookie sang. Red Velvet happily marched to the beat of the song and joined in, “In the middle of this never ending road, I don’t know exactly where it is that we’re supposed to go!” Dark Choco Cookie walked next to him, adding his own voice to the harmony, “We’ve lost nothing, no nothing that we won’t get back.”

All their voices rose up in a chorus as they sang, “Yes, we’ll make our way home!”

“We are fighting dreamers!” They sang in unison.

“Aiming high to touch the sky!” Licorice Cookie sang.

“We’re fighting dreamers!” They sang together.

“Fighting for what we believe in!” Pomegranate Cookie sang.

“Fighting dreamers!” (I’m sure you’ve figured this is the chorus by now.)

“Cause in each other we believe in!” Red Velvet sang, “Oli, oli, oli, oh!”

“Just go my way!” Poison Mushroom Cookie “sang”. Licorice Cookie covered his ears and chuckled softly. “You were just a little off-key at the end there, buddy.” Clover Cookie chuckled softly, “Oh it doesn't matter. It’s not about being good at it, it’s about having fun and keeping your spirits up!” Red Velvet Cookie gasped and ran up ahead, “Hey, guys! I think I see the end of the Apiary!” Clover looked up to see a pair of large wooden gates. “Why yes, I do believe you are right,” he said with a smile. The rest of the group met Red Velvet at the gates, more forest trail and trees greeted them from the open doors. Clover Cookie turned back to the Jelly Bees who had followed them, “I believe this is as far as you must go my friends, I’m glad you enjoyed my music.” The Bees buzzed happily and flew off. “Bye-bye, bees!” Poison Mushroom Cookie called, waving goodbye. Licorice Cookie smiled at Clover Cookie, “Thanks so much for all your help, Clover Cookie. We couldn’t have made it without you!” Clover Cookie smiled in return, “Glad I could help! It’s been a long time since I could put my skills to good use like that,” he said, strumming his lute. “Yeah! Plus, your music is really fun!” Poison Mushroom Cookie cheered. Pomegranate seemed to agree, as she was still humming the tune of the song. Clover Cookie blushed slightly. “Aw, please, it was nothing.”

Schwarzwälder sniffed the air and gasped. “Bat-Cat’s scent! It’s super close! Stealing Cookies must be nearby!” Licorice Cookie’s eyes widened, “Really? What are we waiting for? Let’s get going!” “Licorice Cookie, wait! Oh, there he goes again,” Pomegranate Cookie sighed. “I hope you’re good at running, Clover Cookie. You’ll have to be if you wanna keep up,” Red Velvet Cookie laughed as he chased after his friend. “I shall do my best!” Clover Cookie giggled as he strapped his lute to his back and followed after the Cookies.

Licorice Cookie led the way despite how sore he felt. He’d done more running today than he’d ever done in his entire life. He’d done nothing but run since he left the kingdom this morning. And his body was starting to feel the effects of exhaustion. But the fresh wave of adrenaline from the thought of finally being reunited with Bat-Cat gave him enough resolve to soldier on. Then he heard a sound. A voice.

“Let meowt of here! I’m warning you, you’re gonna regret it!”

Licorice Cookie froze. “D…Did you guys hear that?” He breathed, turning to his friends. He had to make sure he hadn’t hallucinated the sound. But the look on his friends’ faces told him it wasn’t the result of his panicked and exhausted mind. He had heard Bat-Cat’s voice. Another sound came echoing through the trees, the cry of a creature in distress. A familiar mew that Licorice knew all too well. “That’s him, that’s Bat-Cat! HANG ON BAT-CAT, DADDY’S COMING!” Licorice Cookie shouted, breaking into a sprint down the trail. His friends didn’t even try to stop him this time, they just ran faster to try and keep up with him. Licorice Cookie’s heart raced as he rounded a bend in the trail and a clearing came into sight. In the middle of that clearing was a small cage on the ground and inside that cage… Was Bat-Cat. Curled into a ball and swiveling his ears this way and that, when he heard Licorice Cookie’s footsteps he turned in his direction. Licorice Cookie almost burst into tears of joy when Bat-Cat’s purple eyes met his. “Meowster?” he whispered. “BAT-CAT! Oh, thank Darkness you’re alright!” He shouted running up to the cage with his arms outstretched. Bat-Cat’s eyes widened in panic. He placed his paws against the bars of the cage and shouted,

“NO! Meowster don’t! It’s a trap!”

“Licorice Cookie!” Dark Choco Cookie shouted. The next thing Licorice Cookie knew, he was being lifted into the air as the smell of electricity and burnt grass filled the air. A blinding flash of light appeared in the place Licorice stood mere seconds ago, a deafening explosion rang in his ears and continued to ring even after he realized what had happened. A small hole of burnt earth stood where Licorice would have been had Dark Choco Cookie not pulled him out of the way in time. “Aw, I missed,” a cold voice said. A voice Licorice Cookie recognized, despite hearing it speak only a few times. He gritted his teeth as a couple of Cookies stepped out of the bushes. “Gee, that’s too bad,” the taller one said teasingly, “We were trying to be nice and give you a quick and painless death but…” she clicked her tongue, “too bad.” The smaller one chuckled evilly, “Well, relatively painless anyway, heheheheh.”

“You…” Licorice Cookie whispered. He wiggled out of Dark Choco Cookie’s grip and shouted, “You!” He pointed his scythe at the Cookies threateningly. “You’re the Cookies who Cat-napped Bat-Cat!” Poison Mushroom Cookie joined Licorice Cookie at his side, “And stole from the Jelly Bears.” Red Velvet stood on Licorice Cookie’s other side, balling his Cake hand into a fist. “And trapped the Cake Hounds! That was you, wasn’t it? You’re the ones responsible for all the horrible things that have been happening to our friends aren’t you!?” The red one chuckled, “Guilty as charged,” she said with a toothy grin. “We knew you would be coming,” the smaller one said, waving his Candy Wand, “So if it's a fight you want then a fight you’ll get… But… We’re in a hurry and I’m in a good mood, so we’ll give you one last chance to scurry back to wherever you came from and we’ll be on our way.”

“Not a chance!” Red Velvet Cookie shouted, “Not after what you did to my friends!” Dark Choco Cookie raised his sword, “Do you have any idea how many Cakes, Cookies, and Jelly Bears you’ve hurt? What gives you the right to just take things whenever you fancy it? Just who do you think you are?!” He demanded. “You don’t know who we are?” The red one said, tilting her head. “They don’t know who we are?” the smaller one said, looking at her. “They don’t know who we are,” the red one replied with a chuckle. The two burst into insane laughter. Licorice Cookie just looked at them, completely confused. Sheesh, these two are even more messed up in the head than I thought.

“Well, well, well. Why don’t we introduce ourselves then, hm? Maybe then they’ll think twice before starting a fight,” the smaller one said. “Eh, I dunno, I kinda feel like a rumble myself,” the red one said tossing and catching one of her daggers. “You all clearly don’t know who you’re dealing with, if you did you’d be shaking in your boots. Prepare to tremble, however, for I am the Master of Magic! The Artisan of the Arcane Arts, the unequaled, unparalleled, unrivaled…”

“His name is Wizard Cookie,” the red one said, crossing her arms over her chest. “CHILI PEPPER COOKIE! I was building up to that for dramatic effect!” Wizard Cookie shouted angrily. “Yeah, well you were taking too long, and besides, I probably don’t need to introduce myself. They probably already know who I am!” Red Velvet Cookie’s response was, “Uh, he said your name was Chili Pepper Cookie, right?” Chili Pepper raised an eyebrow, “Yeah, but you probably already knew that from my wanted posters! I’m kinda the most wanted thief in all of Earthbread,” she said with a proud smile. “I thought your boyfriend was the most wanted thief in all of Earthbread,” Wizard Cookie deadpanned. Chili Pepper scoffed, “Phantom got lucky and got the top cop of Magic City for his rival! And who do I get? Some stupid sherrif from some dead-end town in the middle of nowhere.” Licorice Cookie tried to sneak over to Bat-Cat while they were arguing but a lightning bolt blasting by him stopped him in his tracks. “Ah, ah, ah,” Wizard Cookie said, “Don’t think we’ll make it that easy.” Licorice Cookie growled and glared at the Cookies, clutching his scythe close to his chest he shouted, “What do you want with him anyway!?”

“Well, it’s not him so much as the little trinket he’s wearing,” Chili Pepper replied. “The gem on his collar is the missing piece to the crown, we need it to make it a complete set,” Wizard added. “What do you need the crown for anyway?” Pomegranate Cookie asked. Wizard Cookie scoffed as if he were talking to a child that was almost too stupid to be tolerated, “We don’t have to explain everything to you. As a matter of fact, you’ve all wasted enough of our valuable time, so… Prepare to meet your DOOM!” Wizard Cookie shouted, pointing his Candy Wand and gathering magic. Red Velvet Cookie took a battle stance, “Looks like there’s no way out of this without a fight,” he sighed. “We can take ‘em! We’ve been up against tougher enemies than a couple of Cookies!” Pomegranate Cookie cheered. Poison Mushroom Cookie took out one of his explosive Shroomies and nodded in agreement. Chili Pepper turned to Wizard Cookie, “You handle the small red one and the one in rags, I’ll handle the other three. They’ve got some pretty shiny looking nick-nacks and I want them!” Wizard Cookie rolled his eyes, “Fine, whatever, just don’t get in my way.”

“Clover Cookie, keep your distance, we don’t know what these Cookies are capable of, this is no place for civilians,” Dark Choco Cookie said, turning his head back towards the bard. The green clad Cookie nodded and sat crossed legged on the ground and began to strum his lute. Licorice locked eyes with Bat-Cat one final time before smiling at him and nodding. Bat-Cat smiled back, even without words he understood his Master was making a promise, that he would get him out of this mess and bring him home safe and sound. Wizard Cookie raised his wand and shouted, “Lightning Strike!” Blue lightning bolts rained down from the sky as magic circles appeared in midair, summoning the electric attack, forcing the group to scatter to avoid getting hit. Red Velvet Cookie rolled out of the way and dug his feet into the dirt. He looked back to see Wizard Cookie but Chili Pepper had disappeared. Where did she…? The answer to his unfinished question came in the form of the sound of ripping fabric and cracking dough as a sharp pain exploded in his chest. He screamed and stumbled back. Red Velvet didn’t even have time to process what and how that had happened before a similar feeling burned in his back. He got the wind knocked out of him, looking up to see only a red blur before receiving an uppercut from her dagger that sent him reeling backwards.

The final blow came to his Cookie wrist, forcing him to drop his sword as he fell to the ground. He struggled to lift his head and watch as the same thing happened to Pomegranate Cookie before the Priestess lost her magic mirror. All he could see was a red blur, with spit seconds of defining features. “Wow, she’s really fast,” Red Velvet Cookie said. Chili Pepper appeared in the center of the clearing with Pomegranate’s mirror strapped to her leg by one of the many small belts she wore on her legs. And Red Velvet Cookie’s sword was strapped to her back. “I’m swift and quick!” She exclaimed proudly as she tossed and caught her crimson dagger. “Um, don’t those two words mean the same thing?” Pomegranate Cookie questioned. Chili Pepper crouched into a striking position and glared at her. “No one asked you for a grammar lesson, Pinky! Besides, the point is… You can’t fight what you can’t see!” She shouted before disappearing again. Dark Choco Cookie closed his eyes and let the magic of his sword guide him. Its Dark Magic could track shadows, even ones that moved as fast as Chili Pepper’s.

Once he opened his eyes, he knew exactly where to pose his sword to block her attack. Her face was a mix of shock and annoyance upon realizing she had been stopped, she jumped back and glared at the warrior. He decided to play defensive until he learned her attack patterns. Right now he knew she slashed from the front, the back, and then ended with an uppercut, but it was unlikely she’d continue that pattern now that it had been discovered. She was clearly an experienced fighter, and he had to be ready for anything as she likely had a few more tricks up her sleeves.

Licorice Cookie and Wizard Cookie were sparring with their magic, Licorice’s Shadowbolts against Wizard Cookie’s Lightning strikes. Power wise they seemed to be evenly matched, as their attacks would meet in the middle and explode without gaining an inch of ground. So the two were dancing around one another in a circle trying to find the best way to outwit the other. He is really reckless with his Mana. He just keeps throwing strike after strike without even giving the spell proper time to cooldown. Unless… Could his Mana cap be higher than mine? That was going to be a problem, if Wizard Cookie could perform faster attacks, Licorice would be too busy dodging to get in a proper strike himself. Wizard Cookie laughed as Licorice stumbled trying to evade another one of his attacks. “Is that seriously the best you can do? And you dare to call yourself a Wizard? It’s wannabes like you that give magic a bad name,” he sniggered. Licorice Cookie stood up and rubbed the dirt off his cheek. “No,” he said pointing his scythe outwards, “It's selfish Cookies like you who use magic to hurt others that give it a bad name!” Wizard Cookie scoffed, “If you’re the best you might as well show it. If you’ve got it, you might as well use it!”

“That’s not necessarily true, with power should also come the wisdom of how to use it. Look at all the other Wizards and magic users who used it purely for their own gain, most of them met a pretty nasty end.” Wizard Cookie rolled his eyes, “Ugh, Dark Wizards…” He cast another blast of magic which Licorice Cookie absorbed by opening a portal that consumed the spell. “You’re all the same… I remember once your kind were feared by all. And with that fear came respect. But then one of the Ancient Heroes had to water down what your people were capable of. Preaching the importance of ‘responsibility’ and ‘self-control’.” he sighed, “Now all Dark Wizards are is a bunch of pacifists and touchy-feely Cookies who are soft!” Wizard Cookie cast a smokescreen spell and disappeared into the fog. Licorice Cookie almost panicked for a second. He couldn’t see a thing and the sounds of swords clashing from Dark Choco and Chili Pepper’s brawl not too far away made it difficult to track his movements by sound. Then, he heard Bat-Cat’s voice, “Meowster! Behind you!” The warning gave him enough time to counter Wizard Cookie’s attack. He blocked his swing with his scythe and now the two were locked in a standstill. The two locked eyes, “Yeah, well,” Licorice Cookie breathed as he struggled to keep himself from getting knocked down, “I never experienced it myself… But I know Dark Wizards used to be feared, yes. But not in a good way. They were shunned from society because of how dangerous their magic was. And it was only dangerous because they didn’t know how to properly control it, so it controlled them!”

The two finally broke apart and stood pointing their weapons at one another. “So you take pride in being a weakling and a crybaby?” Wizard Cookie sniggered. Licorice Cookie gritted his teeth, “There’s no shame in being aware of and expressing my emotions. Yeah, it makes me more sensitive, but that’s where I draw my strength from. Dark Magic stems from being able to control your negative emotions!” Wizard Cookie shook his head. “I learned a long time ago that emotions serve only to weaken you. When I was younger I discovered an ancient type of Arcane Magic that allows its user to suppress their emotions while granting them immense power. It weakened many of these feelings that you Dark Wizards hold so dear. I feel no regret, nor sorrow for the consequences of my actions. That way I can continue onward towards my goals without the distraction of whatever morals keep your potential chained to the ground while I soar higher and higher!”

Licorice Cookie raised an eyebrow, “So you take pride in being a Sociopath?” Wizard Cookie rushed him again, “I take pride in being strong! And not letting anyone or anything else tell me what I can or cannot do!” Licorice Cookie blocked and swung his scythe, Wizard Cookie dodged. “So you disregard some of the most basic rules of magic?” Licorice Cookie shouted in disbelief. Wizard Cookie smirked, “Rules were created only to benefit those who wrote them. And to keep those who blindly follow them from rising to their level!” Wizard Cookie shouted, finally managing to cast a strike Licorice Cookie couldn’t dodge. The Dark Wizard fell to the ground and screamed in pain as the electricity coursed through his body, causing him to jerk and contort uncontrollably. A shadow fell over him as Wizard Cookie’s sinister laugh rang in his ears. Licorice Cookie was sweating and panting heavily. His mouth had a metallic taste from the electricity. “Face it kid, you'll never be as great a Wizard as someone who was destined by their name to be,” he chuckled coldly. To Wizard Cookie’s surprise, Licorice Cookie smiled. Despite clearly being in pain, he smiled. “If you’re so great…” Licorice said with a strained breath, “Then where are your minions?”

The triplets took that as their cue to attack. They had been hiding to give themselves the element of surprise. And it worked, the trio of Licorice Creatures descended upon the Wizard from different directions. The damage they did was minimal at best but it did cause him to stumble backwards and nearly lose his wand. “AH! NO! GET OFF! OW! STOP PULLING MY HAIR!” Licorice Cookie focused on his breathing to try to recover from the attack. To his surprise, he could feel the effects of Wizard Cookie’s attacks starting to wear off much quicker than it should have. Was it Pomegranate Cookie? No. She was trying to help Red Velvet Cookie close Chili Pepper into a corner so Schwarzwälder could get one good hit in with his hammer. Wait… Hadn’t they been injured too? How were they able to move so well? Then he realized he heard something, he’d been hearing something from the very beginning of the battle.

“CHILI PEPPER! HELP ME!”

“I’ve kinda got my hands full right now, Pointy Hat!”

“I thought you wounded a couple of them earlier!”

“I did! I don’t know how they’ve recovered so fast!”

“I do…” Wizard Cookie groaned glaring at Clover Cookie, who was strumming his lute with a relaxed, carefree look on his face. “Oh my gosh,” Pomegranate Cookie breathed, “How did I not notice this earlier? Clover Cookie is using healing magic!” Clover Cookie smiled and said, “I like to think music is a kind of magic in of itself.” “Thanks, Clover!” Red Velvet Cookie cheered, swiping Chili Pepper with his Cake hand. She jumped back, but was hit by one of Dark Choco Cookie’s lightning attacks. Which sent her flying through the air and landing with an “Oof!” She struggled to get to her feet as Red Velvet and Schwarzwälder closed in on her. Wizard Cookie swung his Wand, knocking one of the Licorice triplets into a tree. The other two pinned him to the ground, determined to avenge their brother. Licorice Cookie looked up. There he was, a clear path between him and Bat-Cat, who was watching the fight with wide hopeful eyes and pressing his paws against the bars of the cage. Licorice Cookie ran to him. He had almost reached the cage when Wizard Cookie raised his head, “Not… So… Fast…” He hissed. He whistled loudly, and the next thing Licorice Cookie knew. Something had jumped between him and Bat-Cat, and exploded. “Meowster!” Bat-Cat shouted in distress. Licorice Cookie realized that he was now frozen in place, by a very familiar sticky substance.

Is this… No. It can’t be… Cremlin Cream!

A few more Cremlins jumped down from the trees and overwhelmed Schwarzwälder. Red Velvet jumped in front of Pomegranate Cookie to shield her from the spray of an exploding Cremlin. Chiffon tried to run to Licorice Cookie and help him get unstuck but a couple of bandaged Cremlins appeared in front of him. And the Licorice triplets found themselves locked in battle with a few armored Cremlins. Dark Choco Cookie gasped in disbelief. “To answer your earlier question, Old Rags,” Wizard Cookie said, standing up and dusting himself off. “Those would be our minions.”

“Impossible,” Dark Choco Cookie breathed. “If the Cremlins are following their commands then… That means…. You! You two are servants of the Blind King!” “What?” Red Velvet Cookie exclaimed. Pomegranate Cookie gasped. Clover Cookie even stopped playing his lute for a second out of shock. “The… The Blind King? But that's impossible…” he said, hugging his lute close to his body. “The Blind King was defeated during the Dark Flour War.” The duo chuckled coldly. “Oh, ho, ho, ho, how wrong you are, my little Cookie,” Wizard Cookie said. “He’s still out there, lying in wait for his loyal servants to bring him back from his prison. His body was trapped in the Vanilia Kingdom in the wake of the war. But his mind still walks Earthbread in another vessel. And once that vessel is reunited with the rest of his memories he will have enough power to destroy the barrier the Ancient Heroes placed around his kingdom. And then…”

Dark Choco Cookie’s breath caught in his throat as he watched Wizard Cookie levitate several bandages into the air. Ones with glowing blue and yellow symbols. Cursed Bandages. “We can finally put his grand plan into motion, and bring eternal night to all of Earthbread!” Poison Mushroom Cookie raised an eyebrow, “But if it’s always nighttime, how would the plants grow without sunlight?” Wizard Cookie sighed loudly, “Not literal night, you crumbs-for-brains. It's a metaphor for eternal sleep. Cookies sleep at night so once they're cursed it's eternally nighttime for them.” Poison Mushroom Cookie cocked his head in confusion, “So… The curse puts Cookies to sleep?” It was Chili Pepper’s turn to roll her eyes, “Not in the way you’re thinking, Mushroom Head. The curse places Cookies in a state of happiness and carefree relaxation.”

“Like a sweet dream, one that never ends,” Wizard Cookie explained, “The Blind King’s binding removes all fears, worries, anxieties, and cares from a Cookie's consciousness.” Dark Choco Cookie brandished his sword, “As as their free will!” Wizard Cookie shrugged, “Well… Yes, the spell does make them more obedient to our Master, but why wouldn’t it? After all, he’s the one who’ll be taking care of all those sweet little blinded Cookies, to make sure that they stay carefree and safe from fear or pain.” Red Velvet Cookie lowered his clawed hand slightly. “That… Doesn’t sound so bad actually.” Dark Choco Cookie whipped his head towards the Cake-Cookie hybrid, “Red Velvet Cookie! Don’t let them deceive you! They use their words as a weapon to try to convince you to place the bandages on yourself! Remember what these Cookies have done to your friends! If they really wanted to help other Cookies, they wouldn’t have hurt so many people in order to do it!” Chiffon barked in agreement. Red Velvet looked at the frightened Bat-Cat, still stuck in the cage. He thought back to the injured Jelly Bears and the trapped Cake Hounds, and his resolve returned.

“Yeah, you’re right!" he turned back to Wizard and Chili Peppper, "If your king really wants to erase fear then he shouldn’t force other Cookies to follow him. In case you haven’t noticed, those monsters of yours have been scaring and hurting a lot of innocent Desserts!” Wizard Cookie chuckled, “Sometimes certain sacrifices must be made for the greater good.” Red Velvet Cookie furrowed his brow, “I see nothing good coming out of what you Cookies have been doing!” Wizard Cookie stepped forward and said in a dangerously low voice, “Oh… But you will, once you CAN’T SEE!” Dark Choco Cookie realized what was happening and jumped in front of Red Velvet before the cursed bandage could reach him and cut it in twain. The bandage’s glow faded and it fell to the ground. Red Velvet Cookie panted as he realized he’d almost been cursed, if Dark Choco Cookie hadn’t… The look on the warrior’s face told Red Velvet it wasn’t the time to think about that now. They had to focus on defeating those Cookies and rescuing Bat-Cat. “You and Chiffon focus on getting Licorice Cookie free. We’ll handle these Cookies and the Cremlins,” Dark Choco Cookie said. Red Velvet Cookie nodded, “Ok.”

Wizard Cookie sent another Lightening Strike their way, which the Cremins took as a cue to attack. Red Velvet Cookie didn’t have his sword, but he still had his Cake hand. It worked pretty good at clearing Cremlins out of his path, especially since he had Chiffon’s help. Dark Choco Cookie locked blades with Chili Pepper once again as Pomegranate and Poison Mushroom tried to keep Wizard Cookie occupied. Cremlins carrying glowing bandages began to approach the trapped Licorice Cookie. His eyes widened with fear and he began to struggle against the sticky cream. But it was no use, he was frozen in place and any attempt to move made him even more stuck. One of the Cremlins tried to climb up his robes. Licorice Cookie whimpered and turned away, shutting his eyes tight as a single tear of fear rolled down his face. But before the Cremlins could reach his face, it was knocked back by one of Licorice Cookie’s Minions. Licorice Cookie opened his eyes to see the triplets pushing back the Cremlins. “Liciam! Licastor! Licorina!,” the Dark Wizard sighed in relief, “You three sure have great timing!” The triplets chittered in pride from their Master’s praise.

“Hang on, Licorice Cookie! We’re on our way!” Red Velvet Cookie shouted. AUGH! This would be so much easier if I had my sword! Red Velvet Cookie was doing well fighting the Cremlins back with just his Cake arm, but that left his left side exposed to attack, sure he could punch with his Cookie hand but that wasn’t as effective as using his Cake arm. And Chili Pepper still had his stolen sword on her back. Despite the added weight, she seemed to be fighting just fine. Pomegranate tried to hit her with a magic blast but she dodged easily each time. And Dark Choco Cookie was having trouble fighting back the Cremlins and Wizard Cookie at the same time, even with Schwarzwälder’s help. Red Velvet Cookie wasn’t gaining much ground either, and the triplets weren’t going to be able to hold off the swarms of Cremlins for long. Poison Mushroom Cookie gasped as Chili Pepper Cookie knocked Pomegranate Cookie to the ground. He felt an angry fire growing in his stomach, seeing his friend receiving more and more cracks in her dough each time she was knocked down by the thief.

“Alright, that does it…” he growled and pulled out several of his explosive Shroomies. “Hey, Cookies!” Red Velvet Cookie and Licorice saw him. Licorice gasped in horror. “POISON MUSHROOM COOKIE, NO! DON’T!” He screamed, but it was too late. “Have a Shroomy!” Poison Mushroom Cookie shouted, scattering his purple mushrooms all over the place. They exploded and sent up clouds of purple spores. The smog was so thick it was impossible to see through, and the smell of the toxins was strong. The good news was Red Velvet and Licorice were used to his Shroomies, even at this intensity, so the effects didn’t bother them. But it did affect the Cremlins, who choked and sputtered and teetered and gurgled as the poison took effect. The bad news was the poison also affected Dark Choco and Pomegranate, as well as Chiffon, Schwarzwälder, and the triplets. Dark Choco Cookie dropped his sword and dissolved into a coughing fit so intense it brought him to his knees. Pomegranate Cookie could only see purple and whatever shape she could make out was warped. The air seemed to be rippling like water in a lake.

Chiffon howled in confusion, Schwarzwälder rubbed his ears to try to get the ringing to stop. Or was that… Beeping? Red Velvet sighed loudly. “Poison Mushroom Cookie! You know we’re the only ones who can handle your Shroomy Spores!” Licorice Cookie shouted. “Oopsie,” Poison Mushroom Cookie said timidly. Red Velvet knew this was his chance, since the spores didn’t affect him he could get to Licorice Cookie and free him without the Cremlins getting in his way. “Licorice Cookie! Marco!” Red Velvet Shouted. “Polo!” Licorice Cookie shouted back. The Cake-Cookie hybrid followed the sound of his friend’s voice through the violet haze.

“Marco!”

“Polo!”

He could see Licorice Cookie’s silhouette through the fog, it began to get clearer and clearer as he got closer, he was close enough now that he could make out his face. Licorice Cookie grinned widely when he saw Red Velvet approaching. Suddenly, something jumped in front of Red Velvet, he barely missed getting hit by the crimson blade as it passed by his face. He jumped back and curled his Crimson hand. Chili Pepper Cookie stood between him and Licorice Cookie, her dagger in her hand and her bandana covering her face to protect her from the Shroomy spores. “Didn’t see that one coming didja?” Her voice was muffled through the fabric. “They won’t be able to see anything soon enough,” another muffled voice said. Red Velvet Cookie gasped as Wizard Cookie stepped out from behind Licorice Cookie, another set of glowing bandages in his hands. He was using his scarf the same way Chili Pepper was using her bandana to protect himself from the spores' toxic effects. He lifted the bandages up to Licorice Cookie’s face as the Dark Wizard whimpered in fear. Red Velvet Cookie could feel that primal instinct burning inside him once again. His eye still hadn’t returned fully to normal from the last fight, the black coloration grew darker as his eye grew to a slit. He bared his teeth and let out a Cake-like growl.

From under her bandana, he could see Chili Pepper grow just a little bit nervous. She rushed him, but Red Velvet caught her wrist with his Cookie arm with speed a Cookie shouldn’t be able to use. She paused in shock, even Wizard Cookie stopped to watch. No one had ever been fast enough to stop Chili Pepper, not without magic or some sort of supersense. Chili Pepper didn’t have time to block his next attack, she received a sharp blow from his Crimson hand, leaving three long claw marks on her stomach and chest. Red Velvet pinned her to the ground and ripped the belts off her leg with his crimson hand, ripping her pants’ leg in the process. “Hey! Watch it! OW!” She shouted as she was tossed onto her stomach and the stolen sword was ripped from her back. He left a sharp blow on her back as Red Velvet used her as a launchpad to rush towards Wizard Cookie. The Wizard didn’t have time to react. He had been too busy watching in fascination as Chili Pepper got torn and ripped.

Wizard Cookie hit the ground hard as Red Velvet headbutted him in the chest, his wand was knocked out of his hand and the Cursed Bandages fell discarded to the ground. He looked up to see Red Velvet standing over him with his sword to his neck and baring his teeth, growling like an angry Cake. “Oh fudge, oh fudge, oh fudge, CHILI PEPPER GET THIS THING OFF OF ME!” Red Velvet knew Chili Pepper was fast, so as soon as Wizard Cookie had called for her, he jumped out of the way. Causing Chili Pepper to crash into Wizard Cookie in her attempt to divebomb Red Velvet. The Cake-Cookie hybrid couldn’t help but chuckle as the two yelled at each other. He ran over to Licorice Cookie and began to quickly pull off the Cremlin Creme with his Cake hand. “That was awesome,” Licorice Cookie whispered as he pulled his scythe free.

Red Velvet looked around, Poison Mushroom Cookie was helping Pomegranate Cookie to her feet, Dark Choco was still feeling the effects of the Shroomy spores and was having trouble getting his sword back into its sheath, Chiffon was chasing his tail and Schwarzwälder was mumbling something about being a pretty princess. Red Velvet Cookie looked back to Licorice, “Looks like it's just you and me, pal.” Licorice Cookie nodded and held up his scythe, “Let’s teach these guys a… Huh… Where’d they go?” Red Velvet looked up to see Chili Pepper and Wizard Cookie had now vanished. He got into a battle stance and put his senses on hyper-alert. Licorice Cookie used his Shadow Sence to pinpoint his enemies' location. The wind carried a spicy scent, and the shadows altered Licorice Cookie to movement as he could feel Mana being gathered and converted into electricity.

Licorice Cookie opened a portal to absorb the attack and Red Velvet blocked Chili Pepper’s dagger with his sword. Wizard Cookie growled and Chili Pepper snarled in irritation. Red Velvet pushed Chili Pepper back with a swing of his sword. “You two need to learn how to work as a team!” He taunted. Chili Pepper Cookie smirked. “You think we don’t? Look down.” Red Velvet Cookie’s hair stood on end as he noticed a blue glow beneath his feet. “A magic circle,” Licorice Cookie whispered. The Dark Wizard looked up to see Wizard Cookie grinning, standing in front of Bat-Cat’s cage and holding his glowing Candy Wand. Licorice Cookie gulped, Red Velvet threw his head back and let out a scream as electricity coursed through his body. It felt like his body was being lit on fire from the inside out, the tears in his eyes evaporated as soon as they fell from the intensity of the spell. He fell to the ground, twitching and moaning in pain. Clover Cookie gasped in shock. Wizard Cookie and Chili Pepper threw back their heads and laughed. “MEOWSTER!” Bat-Cat screamed. “Well, well, well,” Wizard Cookie said, levitating the two Cookies into the air and tossing them aside. The last few remaining Cremlins had gathered up the rest of the team. All of them still had Poison Mushroom Cookie’s Shroomy spores in their system so they couldn’t fight back. And now Red Velvet and Licorice were too injured to battle.

Clover Cookie watched in wide-eyed horror as Wizard Cookie levitated several bandages towards his friends’ eyes. He began strumming his lute faster, music always helped to calm him down when he was upset. But what could he do? They were all experienced fighters, and even they couldn’t take those Cookies down. He missed a note in panic, and winced from the sour sound. Sound. Music. Wait.

“Time to say good-bye, Cookies!” Wizard Cookie shouted. “Or should we say… Goodnight,” Chili Pepper laughed, and laughed, and laughed. “OW!” She suddenly shouted, slapping her neck. Wizard Cookie turned to her in confusion. “What? What happened?” Chili Pepper Cookie rubbed her neck, “I think a bug bit me or something,” she replied. A bug? Wait. Red Velvet Cookie realized he heard buzzing. “OW! Uh… I think that bug got me too,” Wizard Cookie said. “OW, ouch! Hey!” Chili Pepper shouted, smacking her arms. Red Velvet slowly lifted his head, he saw a cloud of buzzing Jelly Bees coming from the forest. He looked back to see Clover standing and strumming his lute loudly, dancing ever so slightly on the spot. “The Jelly Bees!” Poison Mushroom Cookie cheered.

“Ow! Ow! OW! Where did these Bees come from?!” Chili Pepper shouted. “Are you all alright!?” Clover Cookie shouted, running up to the group. “Thanks to you and your friends we are!” Red Velvet Cookie exclaimed. While the Jelly Bees had Wizard Cookie and Chili Pepper distracted, Clover Cookie played a healing song to cure the others of the poison and heal Licorice and Red Velvet. Once Pomegranate Cookie felt well enough, Red Velvet returned her mirror to her and she cast a healing spell over her friends. A large Jelly Bee with a crown and scepter flew down in front of Licorice and Red Velvet and buzzed. “Queen Appasis! It’s so good to see you again!” Red Velvet exclaimed. The Queen Bee buzzed happily. Licorice Cookie bent at the waist, placing a hand on his chest. “We can’t thank you enough for coming to our rescue, your majesty.” “Licorice Cookie,” Red Velvet chuckled, “You’re bowing to a bug.” Licorice Cookie turned back to Red Velvet with a smile, “A royal bug, Red Velvet Cookie.” Queen Appasis chuckled.

Wizard Cookie and Chili Pepper ran about, trying to escape the hoard of angry Jelly Bees. Wizard Cookie growled and held up his Candy Wand, summoning a lightning storm that knocked the Jelly Bees back. They shrieked as they went flying in all directions. Even the Queen Bee got knocked back by a gust of wind, luckily Clover Cookie caught her before she could get hurt. He cradled the Jelly Bee close to his chest and held onto his hat as the wind threatened to blow it off. Before anyone could react, Wizard Cookie shouted, “Abra-Cookie-Cadabra! Smokescreen spell!” And sent up a cloud of smoke. Causing the Cookies, Cakes, and Jelly Bees alike to start coughing and shut their eyes as their eyes started to water from the smoke. Then Licorice Cookie heard something that made his heart skip a beat.

“Meowster! Help!”

“Bat-Cat?” Licorice Cookie said, “BAT-CAT!” He ran into the smoke. “Bat-Cat, where are you buddy?!” When he finally made it to the other side of the smoke cloud, he saw Wizard Cookie and Chili Pepper. Chili Pepper was holding onto the cage with Bat-Cat inside, and Wizard Cookie clutched the stolen crown close to his chest. They both looked at him with fire in their eyes. “You may have won this round, Old Rags, but you won’t win the war! Let’s go Chili!” They ran off with Wizard Cookie waving his Candy Wand, “Hey! Get back here!” Licorice Cookie shouted, running after them. Wizard Cookie blasted a bolt of magic towards the ground, Licorice Cookie was blown back and landed hard. His eyes widened as large thorny vines grew from where Wizard Cookie’s spell had hit the ground. They grew and grew, twisting and intertwining, creating a wall of thorns between Licorice and the fleeing Cookies. “Hey!” He shouted, running up to the vines and trying to hack them down with his scythe.

It wasn’t working, the thorny foliage was too thick and the vines were too strong. Nevertheless, the Dark Wizard continued to hack away at them, crying and screaming Bat-Cat’s name as he heard his voice grow softer and softer as the Cookies of Night retreated. He lost his balance during one of his swings and fell to the ground, his scythe clattered to the ground next to him. A fresh wave of sorrow washed over Licorice Cookie as he realized he’d failed once again to rescue his precious pet. He buried his face into his arms and wept bitterly. The smoke had cleared up now and his friends had witnessed his meltdown. Red Velvet and Dark Choco Cookie wasted no time in trying to use their own weapons to tear down the vines, while Pomegranate and Poison Mushroom helped Licorice to his feet, trying to comfort him.

“Hurhg! Hup! Man… These are the toughest plants I’ve ever seen,” Red Velvet Cookie huffed as he found his sword left only scratches in the thorny vines. Dark Choco Cookie received several scratches as he pulled his sword back from the swing. The thorns were catching his clothes and snagging his sword. Once when he pulled back he discovered his hands were empty and his sword was tangled up in the foliage. “Hey! Gimme my sword back!” Dark Choco Cookie shouted at the plant as he tried to pull it free. (He did eventually but it took a lot of effort.) Red Velvet turned to Poison Mushroom Cookie. “Poison Mushroom Cookie! See if you can blast these back with one of your Shroomies!” The fungus flavored Cookie rocked back and forth on his feet uncomfortably and cradled one of his Shroomies in his arms. “Uh… I… I don’t know, Red. The last time I tried to use my Shroomies it only made things worse,” he replied sadly. Red Velvet’s jaw dropped. Licorice walked over to him and placed a hand on his head gently. Poison Mushroom’s watery red eyes looked up at him.

“C’mon, Shroomy. It wasn’t your fault, you were only trying to help,” Licorice Cookie said with a smile. “Yeah, no one blames you, little guy,” Pomegranate Cookie said with a sweet smile. Joining Licorice Cookie in patting the little Cookie on the head. Poison Mushroom’s smile returned. Licorice Cookie knelt down to be closer to eye-level to him. “But we need your help now. These vines are too thick for our swords to cut through. But the poison in your Shroomies might be able to take ‘em down. Think you can do that?” Poison Mushroom Cookie smiled and said, “O… Ok. Stand back!” He ran up to the vines and pulled out one of his explosive Shroomies. Dark Choco and Pomegranate decided to give him some room. Poison Mushroom Cookie tossed his Shroomy and it exploded upon contact with the thorns. A cloud of purple haze consumed the vines. But as it faded, the Cookies gasped in disbelief upon seeing the vines were still standing. Completely unfazed. Poison Mushroom Cookie walked up to the wall of thorns and pulled, almost getting his robes caught and getting himself tangled up in the process.

Licorice rushed forward to pull him free. “I… I don’t understand…” Poison Mushroom Cookie said, his voice trembling. “Why didn’t it work?” Licorice Cookie gave him a reassuring smile and placed his hand on the smaller Cookie’s cheek. “You did your best. That’s all that matters.” Licorice Cookie’s Minions squeaked in agreement and Poison Mushroom Cookie smiled at them. Licorice Cookie looked back towards the vines. “Wizard Cookie created these with magic, so it makes sense they’d be poison resistant. Hmmm. I wonder…” Licorice Cookie pointed his scythe towards the vines and sent a Shadowbolt into the vines. The plants seemed to absorb the attack rather than take damage from it. The dark purple waves of electricity flowed through the vines and slowly disappeared. Licorice Cookie sighed. “Figures… They’re magic resistant as well.”

“So what do we do?” Clover Cookie asked, standing beside Licorice Cookie. Licorice tapped his chin in thought, then suddenly smiled. His entire demeanor changed from dejected to hopeful. “I’ve got it! I know something it might NOT be resistant too! But we need help from a friend of mine but… OH! We’d have to go all the way back to the kingdom! And then come back here! That’ll take forever! By that time those Cookies will be long gone!” Licorice Cookie cried.

“Um… Excuse me? Hello? Over here, yes, yes. I believe I might know someone who might be able to help.”

The group looked over to the voice to see a large Sugar Gnome with a monocle, bound by ropes and sitting near the edge of the clearing. The group was silent for a moment. “Had he been there the whole time?” Red Velvet Cookie questioned. “I think so,” Clover Cookie replied. Dark Choco Cookie went over to help free the Sugar Gnome from his bindings. Once the ropes had been cut, he stood up, dusted himself off and smiled gratefully. “Oh ho ho! Thank you dear friends! Those Cookies have had me held captive for who knows how long! I was wondering if I’d ever be free of them. I can’t thank you enough for scaring them off so they forgot about me in their rush to escape! Doopity-Doo!” Poison Mushroom Cookie looked up at the stranger. “Are you a Sugar Gnome? You’re a lot taller than the ones we have back at the kingdom.”

“Ha ha ha, why yes, in doopity-deed I am! My name is Maestro Sugar Gnome! I was the head of the construction project of the fifth great Cookie Kingdom many years ago! But after the war, I retired. However… Those Cookies decided to force me out of my well-deserved rest and relaxation to have me make those dreaded cages for them… Oh, dooptiy-dee.” Red Velvet Cookie’s eyes widened. “So you’re the one who made all those cages to trap the Cake Hounds in?” Maestro Sugar Gnome lowered his head in shame, “Yes, I’m afraid so. I feel just awful knowing my talents were used for such horrid, unspeakable actions. Even the cage they carry your feline friend in was… Crafted by my own hands.” Dark Choco Cookie placed a hand on the Sugar Gnome’s shoulder reassuringly. “Maestro, it wasn’t your fault. Those Cookies forced you to do so against your will. No one blames you for any of the tragedies that have occurred on account of those Cookies’ actions.” Red Velvet and Licorice nodded and hummed in agreement. “Um-hum.” Maestro Sugar Gnome sighed, “I still feel terrible, which is why I wanted to make it up to you, please. You said you needed a way to get back to the kingdom quickly, and with you all chasing the last of the Cremlins out of the Land of Little Big Dreams, I may know a way to get you back home and then back here in licky-split!”

“You do?” Licorice Cookie replied, eyes widening. “How?” “Just follow me, my friends! I know a guy who knows a guy. You meet all sorts of interesting characters during retirement,” Maestro Sugar Gnome said. Clover Cookie strummed his lute as he followed the group, “You know,” he said softly, “I think I feel a song beginning to blossom. Yes… Yes… Being able to witness such an extraordinary battle, and even being a part of it! I can feel a song being born from this incredible story! A ballad that will tell future generations for years to come of this incredible battle! Perhaps two songs, even three! And I shall call it… The Battle of the Bees!” Clover Cookie exclaimed with a dramatic flourish, holding his hand out to let one of the Jelly Bees fly onto it. It buzzed happily in response, and the others couldn’t help but laugh.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Looook! Looook! The Cooookies have retuuuurned!

“Why are we back here again?” Licorice Cookie wondered aloud as they stepped into the Jelly Bear Village. The villagers cheered and welcomed their friends back, eager to hear about their expeditions. The crowd parted to allow their Prince to the front as he came to greet the Cookies. “Coookies! Oh ho ho! So you’ve returned! Did you find your friend?” Licorice Cookie sighed and shook his head. The cheers began to die down and a slight hush fell over the village as the smiles disappeared. The Prince searched for the right words to say but Licorice Cookie spoke before he could find them. “We almost had him. But the Cookies who kidnapped him put up a wall of magical thorn vines and now we can’t get past it! They’re resistant to magic and poison and our weapons can’t cut through!” The Jelly Bear Prince sighed through his nose, “My my, that does sound like quiiiiiite the pickley.” Maestro Sugar Gnome smiled, “Licorice Cookie believes there’s a friend of his back at the kingdom who may be able to help. But they need to get there and back again as quickly as possible. And with the Waffle Wings now gone from the skies of the Land of Little Big Dreams, do you think Strawberry Bird would be willing to fly again?”

The Prince’s eyes widened. “Aaaare aaaall the monsters reeeally goooone?” Red Velvet Cookie nodded. “Yup, with those Cookies gone, I don’t think you’ll have to worry about the Cremlins bothering you guys anymore.” The Jelly Bears erupted into cheers. “Oh ho ho! How wooooonderful!” The Prince cheered, “If that’s so, then I’m sure Strawberry Bird would be pleeeased as punch to take you guys back to the kingdoooom in the Jelly Bear Balloon!” That caught the others' attention. “The Jelly Bear Balloon?” Red Velvet Cookie echoed. “Um… Exactly how is a balloon going to help us?” Licorice Cookie asked. “Follow me, Cookies!” The Prince said, happily leading the way as the crowd of Jelly Bears parted.

Soon the Cookies came to a large wooden platform, in the center sat a large pink hot air balloon that was shaped like a happy smiling Jelly Bear. A small pink bird wearing an aviator's hat was bouncing around the basket, fiddling with the ropes. The Cookies gasped softly. “Woooooow!” Poison Mushroom Cookie breathed. “Did you ever read about one of these things, Licorice Cookie?” Red Velvet whispered to the Dark Wizard. “Um… I… I’m not sure…” He replied softly. “Straaaawbeeeerry Biiird! Yoo-hoo!” The Jelly Bear Prince called, this got the small bird’s attention. “Well, howdy your Highness! What can I do for you?” The Prince smiled, “I have the moooost woooonderous news, Strawberry Bird! These brave Coooookies have scared off all the moooonsters from the Land of Little Big Dreams!”

Strawberry Bird’s eyes widened, she turned to the group of Cookies behind him. “Is this true? Are the Waffle Wings really gone?” Red Velvet nodded, “And the Cremlins.” Dark Choco Cookie added, “Even the armored ones from the Royal Jelly Apiary.” Strawberry Bird let out a loud joyous chirp and backflipped, “Hot-diggity! That means we can finally get the Balloon up and running again without those nasty critters pokin’ holes in it! Ladies and Gentlebears, the Jelly Bear Hot Air Balloon Delivery and Transportation Service is now open for business again!” The Jelly Bears cheered again. The Cookies couldn’t help but smile to know things were already starting to recover from the damage the creatures had caused. “Transportation huh? So… This thing can take us back to the kingdom? How fast does it go?” Licorice Cookie asked. “Well, let me put it to you this way, Sugar. Walking from here to the kingdom would take upwards to a few hours, but with a good breeze my Balloon here can get you back to the kingdom in just 15 minutes!”

“Woah! Really?” Red Velvet Cookie gasped. “That’s so cool! Plus, I hear Hot Air Balloon rides are super fun!” Pomegranate Cookie cheered. “We don’t have time for fun! We need fast! C’mon guys we gotta get back to the kingdom as quickly as possible!” Licorice Cookie shouted, running up to the basket and climbing over the side. A crash and a soft “ow,” was heard as he tumbled over into the basket of the Balloon. “Um… Licorice Cookie… There’s a door right here,” Dark Choco Cookie deadpanned, undoing the latch on the side of the basket and opening the door. “All aboard! We’ll be taking to the skies momentarily!” Strawberry Bird cheered as she flew off to inspect the sandbags and landing gear before the flight.

“We’re going to fly back to the kingdom!” Red Velvet Cookie exclaimed, “That’s so cool! C’mon Chiffon!” Chiffon barked happily as he scampered beside Red Velvet into the Balloon. “This is so exciting!" Pomegranate Cookie said, bouncing on her feet. “Uh… Licorice Cookie… A-are you sure this thing is safe?” Schwarzwälder asked. Licorice Cookie rolled his eyes, “Oh don’t tell me you’re afraid of heights.” “No,” the Brute huffed indignantly, “How high does this thing go exactly?” he then added timidly. Poison Mushroom Cookie looked over his shoulder, “Uh, Clover Cookie… Are you coming?” Clover shook his head. “I’m afraid this is where our paths must part my friends. But don’t worry, I’m sure we’ll see each other again.” Red Velvet Cookie rested his arms on the side of the basket and smiled, “I hope so, Clover Cookie. I can’t wait to hear all the new songs you’ve come up with ‘till then!” Clover Cookie returned the smile, “And I can’t wait to hear how your story ends! I’ve already got a great many ideas for a song or two from it so far!”

“And I shall find the rest of the cages those Cookies forced me to make and destroy them! To make sure no more creatures have to suffer because of those Cookies' nefarious schemes!” Maestro Sugar Gnome said. “If you find any more of my Cake Hound friends, tell them I said hi!” Red Velvet Cookie cheered, waving his Cake arm. Strawberry Bird flew down next to Red Velvet, “Is everyone ready to go?”

“Ready!” The Cookes cheered in unison, Chiffon barked in agreement. “Okie-dokie then, let’s take to the skies!” Strawberry Bird cheered pulling on a rope that ignited a fire near the top of the balloon. Red Velvet Cookie jumped slightly as the basket lurched suddenly and began to rise. “Oh ho ho! Good luck Cookies!” The Jelly Bear Prince cheered, waving goodbye. “Happy travels!” Clover Cookie called, waving. “And good luck rescuing your friend!” Mastro Sugar Gnome called. Red Velvet Cookie watched in awe as the ground grew farther and farther away. Cheers of “goodbye” and “good luck” faded as the village grew smaller and smaller beneath them. The Cookies echoed the farewells until they were out of sight. “HIGH! TOO HIGH!” Schwarzwälder shouted, covering his eyes and lying stomach down on the floor of the Balloon. “Oh, Schwarzwälder…” Licorice Cookie sighed, sitting next to him and stroking his fur as the frightened Werehound whimpered. His Minions joined him at the Werehound’s side. Dark Choco Cookie lifted Pomegranate Cookie up so she could see over the side of the basket. Her eyes shone with a childlike wonder at the sight before her.

“WOW! You can see all of Earthbread from up here!”

Red Velvet Cookie had never seen anything like it in his entire life. Below him lay a vast stretch of land, he could see the trees of the forest below him blending into a sea of green. Mountaintops in the distance covered with white snow, above and around him was the endless sky. So close he felt he could almost reach out and touch a cloud. The wind blew through his hair and the air felt light. It felt similar to floating, as Licorice Cookie had used him and Poison Mushroom Cookie to practice levitation spells when he was first learning them. He enjoyed the feeling of being able to fly, it gave him a sense of freedom like no other, being free from gravity's restraints. But even this was different. His heart pounded from exhilaration and he could barely catch his breath. “This… This is…. THIS IS AMAZING!!!” Red Velvet Cookie shouted, his voice disappearing into the wild blue yonder. “Look! You can see the sky on the ground too!” Poison Mushroom Cookie exclaimed, pointing out. Licorice Cookie joined them at the edge of the basket. “Oh that’s not the sky Poison Mushroom Cookie, that’s the ocean… I… I didn’t think it was that big. Woah. I… I had no idea… Is all this Earthbread?” he said, turning to Dark Choco Cookie. The warrior nodded. “Look there,” he said, pointing in one direction.

“If you follow those mountains in the distance long enough, you would arrive at my kingdom!” Pomegranate Cookie jumped up and down, “Ooh, ooh, and that patch of pink over there! That’s the forest I grew up in!” “I wonder if you can see the Witch’s House from up here?” Poison Mushroom Cookie said, looking around. “That'd probably be on the other side of the border,” Dark Choco Cookie said. “Where’s the border?” the smaller Cookie asked. “It’s all around us! Just look!” Dark Choco Cookie said, pointing into the sky. That’s when he noticed it. A shimmering light like a dome of glass with light shining through it at just the right angle to make it glow in a rainbow of colors. The occasional ribbon of light pink, or a slightly different shade of blue, a spot of light green, or cascade of light violet, blending and dancing together in the sky. “That light is the Light of Unity, the protective barrier around Earthbread the Heroes created during the Great Cookie Revolution. Legend has it that as long as the Cookies of Earthbread live in Unity and love one another that barrier will protect Earthbread from any outside danger.”

The sight took Red Velvet’s breath away. It was indescribably beautiful. The lights were soft and the colors blended so perfectly, like a song one could see with their eyes. The colors had an almost playful movement to them, as if they were old friends, swimming in the sky together. Laughing and dancing. “It is so much bigger than in books,” Licorice Cookie breathed. “And I wanna see all of it!” Pomegranate Cookie exclaimed. Dark Choco Cookie chuckled, “Quite a big dream for a little Cookie.” Red Velvet Cookie smiled at his friends. “We may be little Cookies in a great big world, but I know together, we can do anything!”

Chapter Text

“Alchemist Cookie!” Licorice Cookie shouted as he slammed the door to the siblings’ house open. “Licorice, you could at least wipe your feet first,” Dark Choco Cookie said scoldingly as the Dark Wizard ran inside. “Alchemist Cookie! Sparkling Cookie said I could find you here! Alchemist, where are you!?” Licorice Cookie called as he ran into the living room. He would have continued his panicked search had a groan not sounded from nearby. The purple-haired Cookie appeared in the doorway connecting the living room and the kitchen. “Licorice Cookie…” She said, well, more like slurred. She sounded like her brother after he’d drunk too much juice. She wasn’t wearing her normal clothes either, she was wearing pajamas. Despite it being midday. And she held a half melted ice pack to her head. “Why are you… Doing so… Loudly… Here?” She slurred. “Alchemist Cookie! Thank Darkness you’re here, listen,” he said running up to her, “I’m probably never going to say this ever again but for once there is something your Alchemy can do that my magic can’t, and we need your help.”

Alchemist looked at him with half open eyes and slurred, “I much… As I’d… Love to rub… crag… gloat about that… I… Can’t.” “You can’t? What do you mean you can’t?! I’m literally swallowing my pride here and asking you for help, Alchemist Cookie, do you have any idea how difficult that is for me!? Do you have any idea what’s at stake!?” Alchemist teetered into the living room as Licorice continued shouting, “Those Cookies still have Bat-Cat, Alchemist! And I won’t be able to save him if we can’t get rid of the magic absorbing thorn vines they put up!” Alchemist mumbled something completely unintelligible. Licorice Cookie started to calm down upon realizing just how bad her state was. “Gee, are you ok?” He walked over to her and held her arm to help her steady herself as she was swaying dangerously as if she was about to fall over from her own body weight. “Uh… Brain… Hurts… Can’t… Sentence straight…” Red Velvet Cookie walked up to the two. “That’s right, you were one of the closest to the blast when Wizard Cookie attacked. How bad is it?”

“ALCHEMIST COOKIE!” Vampire Cookie shouted, appearing in the doorway, “What are you doing out of bed?!” Alchemist Cookie looked at her brother, opening and closing her mouth a few times before finally saying, “Abba gumma sam spamich.” Vampire Cookie sighed and walked up to her, gently taking her arm and led her to the armchair. “If you were hungry you should of just told me. Look, just sit down and I’ll get you a sandwich ok?” Alchemist looked at her brother as he took the floppy ice-pack from her, “Y’no I don… crust.” Vampire smiled at her, “Yes, I’ll cut the crust off. You just rest, ok, baby sister?” Alchemist Cookie closed her eyes and leaned back, moaning softly. “Is she ok?” Red Velvet Cookie asked, “You didn’t give her any Berry Juice, did you?” Pomegranate Cookie walked up to them, “Oh, I’m sure it’s just from the head injury. Ooh. It looks pretty bad.”

“I’ll be right back,” Vampire whispered to Alchemist, gently running his hand through her hair. He zipped off using his Vampire super speed into the kitchen. It was less than three seconds before he returned with a new ice pack and a crustless sandwich. “Wow,” Dark Choco and Pomegranate Cookie said in unison. “I don’t think even magic can do something that fast!” Dark Choco said. “That’s his Vampire super speed,” Poison Mushroom said. “Wow, Vampire Cookie, I’ve never seen you move so much in your life! Or seen you without a juice glass in your hand for that matter,” Licorice Cookie said. “My baby sister needs me. I’m the big brother, and contrary to popular belief I can be responsible when I need to,” he said, climbing onto the arm of the armchair to hold the ice pack to Alchemist Cookie’s head while she ate. She winced slightly when he pressed it to her injury but she smiled at her brother nonetheless.

“Just for the record, the roles are normally reversed,” Red Velvet whispered to Dark Choco. “So… I’m guessing she wouldn’t be able to make any potions or anything when she’s like this,” Licorice Cookie said. “No! I mean it, Alchemist! You could barely get yourself out of bed after you woke up, you think I’m gonna let you near fires and chemicals!” Vampire said in response to his sister giving him puppy dog eyes. She sighed and resumed eating her sandwich. Chiffon placed his paws on the side of the armchair and whimpered. Alchemist smiled at the little pupcake. Vampire turned back to Licorice Cookie, “Look, I overheard, and we’d love to help. We would, but she’s just not…”

“Would it be alright if I took a look at it?” Pomegranate Cookie said, stepping forwards. Vampire eyed her and Dark Choco, “Oh… Who are your new friends, Red?” Red Velvet facepalmed, “Oh right! Dark Choco Cookie, Pomegranate, this is Vampire Cookie and his little sister Alchemist Cookie.” Vampire Cookie smiled, “Nice to meetcha!” Alchemist Cookie waved hello weakly. “Vamps is usually Juiced and Alchemist is usually saying a buncha smart sciency stuff but Alchemist got hurt when those mean Cookies attacked us,” Poison Mushroom Cookie said. “Vamps, these are our new friends,” Licorice Cookie said. Red Velvet Cookie stepped in front of him and started rambling, “Dark Choco Cookie is the Prince of a far away kingdom and he’s looking for his Dad, and he’s a super cool warrior with a magic sword and he’s gonna teach me how to be a warrior just like him!”

“You’re a Prince?” Vampire said, looking at Dark Choco with one eyebrow cocked. “Prince Dark Choco Cookie of the Dark Cacao Kingdom, at your service!” Dark Choco Cookie declared with his usual flourish. “And that is my companion, Pomegranate Cookie,” he said, nodding at the pink-clad Priestess. “Yeah, Pomegranate’s…” Licorice Cookie began, then realization hit him, “A healer. A HEALER! Pomegranate’s a healer! Pomegranate! Do you think you can heal Alchemist Cookie so she can help us?” Vampire Cookie held his hands up, “Woah, woah, woah, slow your roll, Licorice Cookie. Is this gonna involve magic? Because my baby sister here’s not that big a fan of—”

“I duncare,” Alchemist Cookie slurred. Vampire Cookie looked at her in surprise, “Are you sure you’re ok with it?” Alchemist rolled her head to the side to face her brother. “It hurts, Vamps,” Tears coated her eyes, threatening to fall, “It really hurts…” Vampire Cookie placed his hands on her arm and slowly removed the ice pack. Her half-eaten sandwich lay forgotten in her hands as she hiccuped slightly and squeezed her eyes shut. Vampire felt a knot in his stomach twist and turn, threatening to make him throw up at the sight of his sister in so much pain. He turned to Pomegranate with a pleading look in his eyes, “Can you really help her?” Poison Mushroom Cookie stepped forward before Pomegranate could answer. “Pomy once headed a Jelly Bear who had a big hole in her leg! And Pomegranate Cookie made it just like new!” Red Velvet Cookie nodded. Vampire Cookie placed the ice-pack aside and gave his sister a slight hug. She responded by squeezing his hand tight and whimpering softly. “Ok…” He said with a sigh, “Do it…”

The other Cookies made room for Pomegranate to work her magic. She held up her rod and closed her eyes, the pink light appeared and spread out around her like a blooming flower. Some of the balls of light transformed into butterflies and flew to Alchemist Cookie’s injury. Vampire Cookie watched, spellbound as Alchemist Cookie’s breathing grew lighter and her grip on his hand relaxed. As Pomegranate’s Nature’s Blessing spell took effect, the crack on Alchemist Cookie’s head began to close. After a moment the light faded, Pomegranate Cookie opened her eyes and stepped back. Vampire Cookie caught his breath as his sister whispered, “Vamps…” She slowly opened her eyes, her hand slowly went to the spot on her head where her injury had been, and she began to smile. “It doesn’t hurt…” Her voice sounded much clearer now. “It doesn't hurt anymore!” She suddenly jumped off the armchair, her balance had clearly been restored. Vampire Cookie let his magic lift him off the side of the armchair and he floated over to her, levitating slightly above her and laughing. “Really? You sure you’re alright?” Alchemist grinned widely. “Fit as a fiddle!” Licorice Cookie smiled, “Well, you’re certainly talking clearer now.”

“Does that mean you can think straight now?” Red Velvet laughed. “Alchemist, quick! What’s 47 and a half times 22 and three quarters?” Vampire Cookie exclaimed. Alchemist didn’t miss a beat before replying, “One thousand eighty and five-eights!” Licorice Cookie ran the math over in his head, “She’s right,” he said with a smile upon confirming it. “What’s the chemical formula for sugar?” Vampire asked. Alchemist smiled and replied, “C12H22O11!” Vampire Cookie’s signature lopsided grin returned, “How do you use Alchemy to make juice?” Alchemist Cookie crossed her arms over her chest and glared at her brother, “Vamps…” She hissed. Vampire Cookie turned to the rest of the group and calmly said with a toothy grin, “She’s back to normal.”

Vampire Cookie hugged his sister tight, laughing like a maniac. Alchemist didn’t fight against him this time, she was even giggling a bit herself. At the sight of the two siblings laughing and embracing, Red Velvet couldn’t help but chuckle a bit himself. Dark Choco Cookie smiled at Pomegranate, “Another job well done, Pomy.” Pomegranate Cookie placed her hand over her mouth and chuckled softly. “You’re absolutely sure you’re feeling better?” Vampire Cookie asked as he let go of Alchemist Cookie. “Yeah,” she said, rubbing her head, “It’s not even sore. I can’t believe I’m saying this but… I don’t think any of my healing potions would have been that effective! Or that fast…” Pomegranate Cookie waved her rod and replied, “Tricks of the trade.” Vampire Cookie sighed in relief. “Well, that’s good to hear. All this worrying sick has been making me… Well, sick… I need a drink.” Vampire Cookie said, walking off to the kitchen. Alchemist Cookie rolled her eyes and crossed her arms over her chest, “You just can’t stand being sober can you?” Vampire Cookie waved his hand dismissively as he disappeared into the kitchen.

Alchemist Cookie smiled in spite of herself. She turned back to Licorice with a sigh, “I guess I owe you one.” “Don’t worry about it… In fact we came because there’s something we need your help with…” Licorice then explained the whole situation from beginning to end. Alchemist Cookie frowned, “So those Cookies still have Bat-Cat?” Licorice Cookie sighed a sigh so heavy his shoulders seemed to slump from the weight of it. “Yeah. And the thorns they put up are magic resistant, so I can’t take them down.” Alchemist looked down and rubbed her chin in thought, “But things that are resistant to magic…” She slowly smiled and raised her head, “Usually aren’t resistant to Alchemy!” Licorice Cookie smiled, “Exactly!” The short purple-haired Cookie adjusted her glasses and placed a hand on her hip. “Well, normally I’d take this time to point out that this proves my Alchemy to be superior…”

Here it comes… Licorice Cookie thought, rolling his eyes and bracing himself to maintain his self-control for her speech. But what she said next caught him off guard. “But… The only reason I’m able to help you with my Alchemy right now, is because of your friend’s healing magic.” Licorice Cookie’s jaw dropped. “So…” Alchemist continued, her eyes shifting towards the ceiling as she searched for the right words. “We’ll put that on the shelf… Just this once.” Licorice Cookie’s smile was one of gratitude. The two just stared at one another in silence for a moment. Smiling, the way two rivals do when they’re both forced to swallow their pride for each other. “So you can make a potion that will take down the vines?” Alchemist Cookie smiled and said proudly, “Of course I can… There’s just one problem.” Licorice Cookie lost his smile. “In order for it to work I would need a piece of the plant you’re trying to take down. It’s like needing the exact venom of a creature to make an antidote for it.” Licorice Cookie groaned loudly, “You mean we have to go all the way back there, get a piece of the plant, come back here, and then go back there again?! That’ll take forever!”

“Licorice Cookie?” Poison Mushroom Cookie said. “Not now, Shroomy! I’m lamenting! There’s no way we’ll be able to catch up to those Cookies with that kind of time! My poor Bat-Cat is doomed!”

“Licorice Cookie…”

“Doomed, doomed, DOOMED I TELL YOU!”

“LICORICE COOKIE!” Poison Mushroom Cookie shouted. “WHAT!?” The Dark Wizard shouted back. “What’s that on your scythe?” Poison Mushroom Cookie said, pointing at the blade of Licorice Cookie’s weapon. “Huh?” Licorice Cookie said dumbly, looking at where he had pointed. Just below the blade, wrapped around the handle was a small green spiral of plant. A small leaf stuck out to the side, and a section seemed to peel away from the rest of the plant, as if it had been hacked off. “Oooh, that must of gotten caught in your scythe when you were trying to cut it down!” Red Velvet Cookie cheered. Chiffon barked happily. Licorice Cookie gently removed the small vine from his weapon. Not quite ready to believe his luck just yet, he timidly turned to Alchemist Cookie. “Will…. Will this be enough?”

“More than enough!” Alchemist Cookie said, taking the vine from him. “I’ll just take this little puppy up to my lab and we can get started!... Right after I change into some more appropriate clothes…” she said, seeming to only now realize that she was wearing her pajamas. “Vampire Cookie!” She shouted, stomping off. “What did you do with my clothes?” “Those I threw away! They were covered in jam and smelled burnt! You didn’t seriously expect me to let you stay in those things!?” Vampire Cookie shouted from the kitchen. Alchemist groaned loudly, “Did you at least go through the pockets first!?” Their shouting could be heard from outside. Red Velvet turned to the concerned Dark Choco and Pomegranate and said, “This… Is how they normally are.”

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Alchemist Cookie’s lab was a sight to behold. One that managed to look cluttered yet organized at the same time. Tubes and wires and odd-shaped metal things. Dials with measurements with strange words or symbols. Jars and bottles lining the shelves on the walls, each marked and labeled with care. Alchemist Cookie ran about, gleefully explaining the whole process step-by-step as she poured this liquid into that container. Explaining why she had to use this exact technique as she crushed the vine into powder in a small bowl. She measured this, boiled that, measured this again, mixed that, measured this one more time at all angles, and held it up to the light for good measure. (No pun intended.) “Measure twice, mix once, one of the most basic rules of Alchemy, even the slightest mistake can jeopardize the outcome. And we’ve got only one shot at this so caution levels should be at maximum.” Licorice Cookie nodded in agreement, he seemed to be the only one who understood exactly what she was saying no matter what she said.

Vampire Cookie watched her from the doorway of her lab. Delighted to see his little sister back in her zone and babbling away with all the energy of a child. A half-drunk juice glass in his hand. He swished it around and took a small sip. “How long will that take?” Licorice Cookie asked in response to something Alchemist said, “As soon as I add the stabilizing catalyst, we just have to wait for the reaction to be complete. Two minutes tops.” Licorice stood in front of the bubbling liquid inside the glass. Glaring at it as if he could will the potion to be completed faster just by staring at it. Alchemist turned to the rest of the group. “Oh, by the way, Red Velvet Cookie. What happened to your eye?” The question caught him off guard. “My eye? What’s wrong with my eye?” he asked. The others looked at one another. “Um… Well… It kinda looks…. Weird….” Poison Mushroom Cookie said slowly. “Weird how?” Red Velvet Cookie said, growing even more confused by the second. His eyes felt fine, what could they be talking about?

Pomegranate Cookie offered him her mirror, “Here, see for yourself. It’s kinda hard to explain it.” Red Velvet took the pink mirror in his Cookie hand and looked into the glass. “What the…” He mouthed upon seeing his reflection. His right eye was normal, but his left had turned almost completely black, save for the slit of its original color. “Wha— When did that happen?” he wondered aloud. “I first noticed it during a fight with the Cremlins. It changed back shortly after so I thought I had been seeing things,” Dark Choco Cookie said. “It happened with the Colossus too. But it wasn’t like that before,” Schwarzwälder added. “I think I remember seeing it like that during the fight with Wizard and Chili Pepper,” Licorice Cookie said. “It looks… Kinda like a Cake’s eye,” Pomegranate Cookie noticed. “You know, I think you’re right, Pomegranate Cookie. Red, does your vision change depending on which eye you use?” Alchemist Cookie asked. Red Velvet closed his Cake eye, then opened it and closed his Cookie eye. “Uh… I think I see a little… Better out of this one actually. Like, it’s easier to see things in bright light with the Cake one.”

“There’s a scientific explanation for that. You see, slitted pupils are characteristic of predators and hunting creatures such as Cakes, it allows for better depth perception and filters light. This allows them to see in both brightly and dimly lit areas,” Alchemist Cookie explains. “What’s depp perception?” Red Velvet Cookie asked. Alchemist rolled her eyes, “Depth perception, Red Velvet Cookie, how far away or how close something is.” “So, Red Velvet Cookie’s got super vision now?” Poison Mushroom Cookie gasped. “Well, in one eye at least. This is so fascinating… Hang on! I need to get my notes!” Alchemist exclaimed as he rushed over to a bookshelf and scanned over the books. Running her hand across the spines of several and muttering to herself before exclaiming “Ah-ha!” And taking one off the shelf. She dug a pen out of her pocket and began to write in the notebook. “Not only a Cake’s limb but also a Cake’s speed, agility, strength, and now the eye of one as well. You also seemed to be able to communicate with them at a certain level, yes… This all but confirms…”

“Wait… Alchemist Cookie… You have a notebook full of notes on me?” Red Velvet Cookie asked, placing his Cake arm on his hip. Alchemist Cookie paused her writing and looked up at him. “Well… Yes,” she said adjusting her glasses, “It’s just… You’re the first of your kind Red Velvet Cookie. The very first Cake-Cookie hybrid. Do you know how… Just…. Monumentous that is!? The first living thing with the dough of two different species, and yet, not only surviving but thriving! Many would think that your Cookie body would see the Cake arm as a foreign threat and start to shut down or self-destruct! But instead, it seems that your body is mutating to accommodate for it. And all in good ways! You’re getting the best of both worlds by staying mostly Cookie while gaining the strength and abilities of a Cake Creature! Scientifically that is a huge discovery so… Yeah, I’ve been kinda… Watching and studying you from a distance and keeping careful check on your progress.”

Red Velvet Cookie furrowed his brow. He wasn’t sure he was comfortable with being “studied” like an anomaly. It felt almost like an invasion of privacy. Ok, yes, Cookies did tend to gawk when they first met him because of his arm but they would always get used to it and then it would never be brought up again. Except to mention how cool it was. But all those feelings disappeared with the next thing she said.

“This just about proves my earlier theory on how you may have gotten it.”

Red Velvet Cookie blinked. “You think you know how I got my Cake arm?” Licorice Cookie finally looked up from the bubbling potion. “Wait, seriously?! Well don’t just keep us in suspense, Alchemist, spit it out!” Alchemist readjusted her glasses again, “I do know this much, it wasn’t some random occurrence by chance, or blessing from the Heavens, or fluke, or whatever. Someone, or something, is definitely responsible for that. Someone or something, gave you that Cake arm, Red Velvet Cookie.”

Red Velvet blinked again, he looked down at his Cake arm, opening and closing his hand. “Someone… Gave it to me?” Alchemist Cookie nodded, “That’s the only way it could have been fused to your dough and still be compatible with the rest of your immune and nervous system. It’s like getting a jam transfusion, the new has to be compatible with the old, or else they’ll fight with each other and cause more harm than good. Someone would have to had known EXACTLY what they were doing in order for it to work. Possibly someone with medical experience, but definitely someone with exceptional knowledge of both Cake and Cookie anatomy.”

Before this moment, Red Velvet Cookie had not had even the slightest idea how he got his Cake arm. He lost his old one, passed out, and woke up being part Cake and part Cookie. But now… Now he had a hint, an idea, a clue. A tiny drop of knowledge that ignited a spark of curiosity. Now that he had a good idea how, he wanted to know who and why. Who was the mysterious Cookie who gifted him this blessing? And were they even a Cookie? What if they were a Cake, or something else, some strange creature he’d never even heard of? Why did they do it? Out of pity, or did they have a greater plan or particular purpose for giving him such strength and talents? And how did they do it? How did they know exactly if it would work? Did they even know? Or was he…. Experimented on during his time unconscious? The last question sent a shiver down his spine. That idea felt even worse than the idea of Alchemist practically stalking him for the sake of science or whatever.

He looked at her again, and decided to condense his every question into one, “Do you know… Anything else?” Alchemist Cookie shook her head. “I’m sorry… And I was only able to come to that conclusion through theory and hypothesis. The only for certain facts I have is how your body is adjusting and adapting to your new arm.” “Why does it matter? It’s never bothered you before, Red,” Licorice Cookie said, walking up to his friend. “Because I didn’t know anything about it before! It didn’t matter because I didn’t have the slightest clue! It wasn’t there one second and then it was the next! Heck, I was falling out a window one second, and the next I’m waking up in paradise! Heh, when I say it like that it makes it sound like I died. And who’s to say we didn’t die? Who’s to say you weren’t right about the Cookie Paradise being a metaphor for death and we’re all dead and we just don’t realize it yet!?” Pomegranate Cookie placed a hand on Red Velvet Cookie’s shoulder, “Red, calm down. You’re scaring Poison Mushroom Cookie.” The Cake-Cookie hybrid looked down at the wide-eyed fungus flavored Cookie. He sighed, “Sorry,” he said softly. “It’s just… It’s just such a huge part of me now. It’s… It’s practically all I am. There’s not another Cookie in all of Earthbread who’s like me. I guess I just… Wanna know why. Y’know. Why me?”

Pomegranate Cookie smiled, “Well, if Alchemist Cookie is certain that there’s someone out there who did it, then maybe we’ll find them.” Red Velvet rubbed his Cake arm with his Cookie arm, “Yeah,” he slowly started to smile, “Maybe we will. After all, we have more than we had before to go off of I suppose.” Chiffon barked happily and hopped up and down. “I for one am quite curious about it myself. I wouldn't mind finding out how you got your Cake arm, Red Velvet Cookie,” Dark Choco Cookie added. “Yeah! We should find them so we can thank them for giving you your super cool Cake powers!” Poison Mushroom Cookie cheered. Red Velvet Cookie chuckled softly.

“Well, you guys won’t be able to find anything if you’ve got thorns blocking your path. Luckily,” Alchemist Cookie picked up the potion bottle and placed a rubber cork on top, “This should fix your prickly problem!” Licorice Cookie took the potion from her, “Thanks a ton, Alchemist. I can’t believe I’m saying this but… I guess there are some things that Alchemy is better than magic at.” Alchemist adjusted her glasses, “Well… In healing, magic is more…. Efficient… But you didn’t hear that from me!” Alchemist Cookie said, turning her head and crossing her arms over her chest. A moment of silence filled the air before the two made eye contact for a split second and burst into laughter.

“Do you think this means they’re gonna stop fighting about it now?” Poison Mushroom Cookie whispered to Red Velvet. “Nope,” Red Velvet chuckled, he smiled as he watched the two fist bump, “But at least they have some common ground and newfound respect for one another’s abilities now.”

Chapter Text

“This is all your fault!” Chili Pepper shouted. “What?!? How is this my fault? You’re the one who lost the weapons you stole from them and crashed into me during the fight!” Wizard Cookie shouted back. “Yeah, well, had you recognized that greeny guitar player could use magic maybe he wouldn’t have sicced those Jelly Bees on us!” Wizard Cookie screeched to a halt, “Alright, let's stop playing the blame game and take a serious look at what went wrong. One, we underestimated our opponents even after they’d proven to be a threat. We need to take more caution in dealing with those Cookies in the future. If they can take down an army of Cremlins, I wouldn’t be surprised if they’re able to take down the thorn barrier I put up. And…” Wizard Cookie looked down at the imprisoned Bat-Cat, “They’ll be coming for him. Old Rags Cookie has made it perfectly clear he’ll stop at nothing to get his precious pet back…”

“His name is Licorice Cookie!” Bat-Cat shouted, “And he’s one of the best Wizards in all of Earthbread! You two got lucky when you escaped that time but the next time my Meowster…. AH AH!” Bat-Cat shouted as Chili Pepper shook the cage she carried him in, “Shut your trap, kitty cat,” she hissed, she then turned back to Wizard Cookie. “Yeah, we got that… Those Cookies are gonna be a problem, I noticed that when we started getting stung by Jelly Bees! Any other brilliant observations you’d like to share, genius?” She huffed, glaring at the Wizard. Wizard Cookie had long gotten used to his companion’s impatient and sharp tongue so he just ignored the sarcastic comments and continued. “Two, we were outnumbered, once we lost the rest of the Cremlins from the Land of Little Big Dreams there was no hope of winning that battle, even with most of them incapacitated from the toxins. We can’t make the mistake of underestimating them again, so let’s not assume they’ll make that same mistake. Next time, we need a way to bring as many of them down as possible, before they rush us.”

Chili Pepper Cookie placed her hand on her hip, “So what you’re saying is we need a secret weapon of some sort?” Wizard Cookie nodded, “Something powerful, something that will be able to take those Cookies down in one fell swoop!” Chili Pepper Cookie rolled her eyes, “Like what? In case you haven’t noticed Pointy Hat, we’re running low on Cremlins, and last I checked… Dragon’s Hill didn’t have enough Armored Cremlins to make a Colossus with!” Wizard Cookie shook his head. “No, no, not a Colossus, they’ve already proven to be able to take that down. We need something new… Something stronger… Something…”

“HEY!” A high-pitched but small voice shrieked. Wizard Cookie looked around in confusion, “Chili Pepper, did you hear that?” he asked, turning back to the spicy Cookie. She shrugged, “Hear what?” “HEY! Down here!” Wizard Cookie wandered around in search of the noise when suddenly it shouted again, “AHHH! NOW LOOK WHAT YOU’VE DONE!” Wizard Cookie finally noticed a tiny, angry-looking Jelly Worm at his feet. “Do you have ANY IDEA how long it took me to stack those!?” Wizard Cookie realized in his wandering he’d kicked a small rock pile over, similar piles were stacked in various places. Wizard Cookie just watched with disinterest as the tiny Jelly Worm replaced the rocks in their stacks with a lot of effort and angry huffing. He turned to the Cookies with fire in his itty-bitty eyes.

“HOW DARE YOU TRESPASS THE SACRED GROUNDS OF THE GREAT DRAGON!” The Jelly Worm squealed. Wizard Cookie blinked. “Oh, he must be one of the Dragon's followers or something,” he said flatly. “That Dragon that was defeated by one of the Five Ancient Heroes around here years ago, there are creatures that still…” “I WAS TALKING ABOUT ME!” The Jelly Worm screamed as loud as his tiny lungs would allow. (Which actually wasn’t very loud.) “I train and pray HOURLY to become the next Dragon! Even the greatest of the great started as small as me once!”

“Um… Could you speak up a bit? It’s just… You’re so tiny and all, and it’s hard to hear you way down there,” Wizard Cookie chuckled. “HERE THIS! I WILL become the next Dragon, and when I do, I will make you PAY for defiling my sacred training grounds! I shall burn you to cinders and crush you to crumbs, just as the Dragons of the past did to those who stood in their way! NOW SCRAM! GET OUT! SHOO!” Chili Pepper stood next to Wizard Cookie and looked down at the Jelly Worm, “Aw… How cute, the widdle baby wormy wants to be a big scary Dragon,” she teased. “Pfff… Please, just a tiny Dragon wannabe. I think I’ll call you Tiny!” she scoffed. “You’re mean!” The Jelly Worm cried, literally. Tears were shining in the tiny worm's eyes. He burrowed into the ground and disappeared beneath the earth. “Well, THAT was weird,” Chili Pepper Cookie said. Bat-Cat flattened his ears against his head. There was no reason for them to be so mean. Technically they wandered into his territory and messed up the place, the least they could have done was apologize for wrecking his training grounds. Licorice Cookie would have apologized. He was always so considerate of other creatures’ feelings. In fact, had it been his Meowster, they probably would have walked away with the Jelly Worm seeing the group as friends rather than someone to take vengeance on.

Wizard Cookie’s eyes widened, “Wait a minute… Wait a minute! Oh, Tiny!” Wizard Cookie sang into the hole the Jelly Worm had disappeared into. He reappeared and shouted, “THAT IS NOT MY NAME!” Wizard Cookie grinned coyly at the little Worm, “Do you know how long it would take you to become a Dragon?” “Huh?” Chili Pepper said. Wizard Cookie winked at her over his shoulder and she smiled. “Uh…” The Jelly Worm said slowly, “I don’t know… A while… I guess.” Wizard Cookie shook his head, “Tsk, tsk, tsk. My little friend, even if you trained and prayed all day without stop, it would take you hundreds of years to become a Dragon.” The Jelly Worm’s eyes widened, “It would?” Chili Pepper Cookie nodded, “Oh yeah, hundreds and hundreds of years. Maybe even thousands. By that time, another critter may have become the next great Dragon before you got the chance.”

The Jelly Worm lowered his head, “But… But…” If his voice hadn’t been hard to hear before, it was impossible to hear now. “But… We can help you achieve your dream of becoming a Dragon, as soon as this afternoon!” Wizard Cookie exclaimed. The Jelly Worm lifted its head again, his eyes sparkling, “You can?!” Chili Pepper Cookie nodded “Yup!” Bat-Cat banged against the bars of his cage, “Don’t listen to them! They’re evil! They’re only going to… UFF UMMMPPH!” Bat-Cat was silenced as Wizard Cookie wrapped a cursed bandage around his mouth with his magic. “Shoulda done that forever ago,” Chili Pepper groaned. Wizard Cookie turned back to the Jelly Worm, “I can use my magic to give you the strength you desire but in return… You’ll have to do something for us.”

The Jelly Worm slowly smiled, “What do you want me to do?”

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“Okay guys, this is it, the moment of truth,” Licorice Cookie said, holding the potion in his hands and standing in front of the thorn vines. His friends stood behind him in a semi-circle, “You got this buddy!” Red Velvet Cookie cheered. “Ooooh, I sure hope this works,” Poison Mushroom Cookie whispered. Licorice Cookie slowly breathed in through his nose and out through his mouth. He uncorked the potion and poured it onto the roots of the plants. He stepped back and held his breath as the liquid spread out. The vines began to shiver, some began to curl over on themselves. Licorice Cookie smiled as they turned brown and withered away. “Alright!” Schwarzwälder shouted. “Yay!” Poison Mushroom Cookie cheered. “Well, what are we waiting for? Let’s go save our friend!” Red Velvet Cookie exclaimed. “Lead the way, Licorice Cookie,” Dark Choco Cookie said with a smile. Licorice Cookie smiled and marched in front.

As the group continued down the path, the trees became taller, the grass became a deeper shade of green, and the flowers on the side of the path changed from multicolored wildflowers to paths of white and light yellow. The overall smell of the area changed as well. The trees made a canopy above the Cookies, the interwoven limbs creating a roof of leaves of tree limbs. “It’s… A lot darker here. Are we still in the Land of Little Big Dreams?” Pomegranate Cookie said. “No,” Dark Choco Cookie said. “I believe this would be the entrance to Dragon’s Hill.”

“Dragon!?!” Licorice Cookie suddenly said, stopping in his tracks, causing Red Velvet to crash into him and Poison Mushroom Cookie to crash into Red Velvet. The trio turned back to the Prince with wide eyes, “There are Dragons around here?!” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked. Dark Choco Cookie blinked. “Oh, no… Not anymore. But according to legend, there used to be a great Dragon that terrorized the lands nearby many years ago. Until the Five Ancient Heroes vanquished it!” The other three breathed in amazement. “The Ancient Heroes fought a Dragon?! And won!?” Red Velvet Cookie breathed. Dark Choco Cookie nodded, “Ah, I still remember the stories my father would tell me of those days. I believe it was Hollyberry who dealt the final blow. She gained quite a reputation for being the Dragon fighter, which was ironic because my father also fought the Black and White Dragons and…”

“Dark Choco Cookie… Focus,” Pomegranate Cookie said. “As fascinating as that is, we need to find Bat-Cat. So come on!” Licorice Cookie said, speeding down the road ahead of the group. His Minions squeaked happily and walked ahead of him, waving their daggers. “I wanna hear the story, Dark Choco Cookie!” Red Velvet Cookie exclaimed. The warrior smiled at the Cake-Cookie hybrid and began to recount the tale. Of how his father and his friends had answered the call to help a small group of forest Cookies who were being terrorized by a massive Dragon, who would burn their crops and destroy their houses. So they stood together against the massive beast and slew it. Hollyberry Cookie was the MVC of the battle. If it hadn’t been for her shield to protect her friends, they would have been burnt to a crisp by the Dragon’s fearsome fire breath. “That sounds awesome!” Red Velvet Cookie cheered. “That sounds scary,” Poison Mushroom Cookie said. He tugged on Pomegranate Cookie’s sleeve. “Is the Dragon really gone?” She smiled and nodded. “Don’t worry, there hasn’t been a Dragon in Dragon’s Hill for years.” Dark Choco Cookie nodded, “The worst you’d have to worry about is the Jelly Worms or Frogg-Os.”

“Um… Dark Choco Cookie… Last I checked, Jelly Worms can be a big problem. Emphasis on big,” Pomegranate Cookie said. Dark Choco Cookie hummed thoughtfully, “True, Jelly Worms can grow quite large. But I’m sure we won’t run into any that size.”

Licorice Cookie could be heard screaming up ahead. “Licorice Cookie!” Red Velvet Cookie shouted, drawing his sword and rushing forwards. He saw Licorice, the triplets, and Schwarzwälder locked in battle with several green frogs the size of Cake Wolves. They had razor-sharp teeth and were leaping out of the river that flowed next to the pathway. Licorice Cookie blocked a Frogg-O that had jumped towards him with the blade of his scythe. The strength of the Watermelon colored frog’s jaw was way stronger than Licorice Cookie had expected. Cracks began to appear in the blade of his scythe where the Frogg-O bit down on it. He swallowed hard, and tried to swing it off his weapon but the Frogg-O held down tight. Schwarzwälder tried to smash the slimy creatures with his hammer but they kept jumping out of the way. Several jumped onto him and bit down into his dough. Schwarzwälder screamed in pain and dropped and rolled to get the Frogg-Os off him. It worked for some of them, but others had bit down a little too hard and he couldn’t shake them off. And besides that, the ones he did manage to shake off jumped right back on to continue their assault.

The triplets did their best to keep the Frogg-Os at bay but their gnashing teeth proved to be a more effective weapon than their daggers. Licorina lost her dagger to one of the Frogg-Os after it ripped it out of her hand. And then proceeded to crush it to pieces between its rows of knife-like teeth. It grinned vilely at her and the Licorice Creature slowly backed away. It snapped at her and she ran screaming for her Master. She hid behind him and trembled like a leaf. Squealing like a frightened child. Once Licorice Cookie realized what had happened he glared at the razor-toothed Frog. “All right, that’s it. Nobody messes with my Minions and gets away with it!” He slammed with Frogg-O that was locked onto his scythe onto the ground and raised his scythe.

Dark Magic swirled around him in a flurry of dark purple sparks and waves. His robes and hair fluttered in the wind that picked up from the spell. Magic gathered around his scythe and Shadowbolts rained down upon the Frogg-Os. “Shadowbolt Storm!” Licorice Cookie shouted, swinging his scythe. The Frogg-Os were blasted back. Some hit the nearby trees, some were slammed to the ground, some fell back into the water. The remaining Frogg-Os angrily jumped back into the river and disappeared. Licorice Cookie took a couple of minutes to catch his breath, then smiled proudly. “Nice one, Licorice Cookie!” Red Velvet Cookie cheered. “We were on our way to help, but it seems like you’ve got everything under control,” Dark Choco Cookie chuckled. “Um… Didn’t that spell take a lotta Mana, Licorice Cookie?” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked. “Don’t worry about it,” Licorice Cookie said, digging into his pockets, “I’ve got Mana Jellies,” he said, popping a Jelly into his mouth.

Licorina’s brothers were trying to comfort her. Licastor offered her his dagger but she shook her head. Licorice Cookie noticed and walked over to the triplets. He gently patted Licorina on the head, “Aw, don’t worry about it, Licorina. You did your best, that’s all that mattered. We’ll make you a new dagger, I promise.” She smiled shyly at him in response. Licorice Cookie picked her up and cradled his Minion in his arms. Without her dagger she wouldn’t be able to defend herself. So he had to keep a closer eye on her to make sure she didn’t get hurt. Licorice Cookie removed his hood and gently placed Licorina inside it to free up his hands so he could hold onto his scythe. Pomegranate Cookie was busy using her healing magic on a whimpering Schwarzwälder. “Maybe let’s try to stay together from now on. That way if we get ambushed we can help each other,” she suggested. Chiffon sat next to Schwarzwälder and nuzzled him with his nose. The Werehound smiled at the tiny pupcake.

“Yeah… That’d probably be best,” Licorice said with a sheepish chuckle. The team continued down the path, this time staying closer together, and alert for any sign of danger. The foliage on the side of the path changed from wildflowers to large bushes of fruit. Poison Mushroom Cookie wandered off once or twice to pluck a peach or a large strawberry from the bushes. “Be careful,” Dark Choco Cookie warned, holding his sword in front of him. “We’re still near the river and Frogg-Os are very territorial and aggressive.” “And Jelly Worms. I hear they lurk around here as well,” Pomegranate Cookie added. “What do Jelly Worms do?” Red Velvet Cookie asked. “Oh, nothing much,” Pomegranate Cookie said, “They just eat Cookies.”

“WHAT?!?!” Licorice, Red Velvet, and Poison Mushroom Cookie shouted. “C’mon guys…. Did you think Witches are Cookies’ only predators? Our natural sweetness makes us a coveted snack for a lot of creatures.” Dark Choco Cookie finally placed his hand over her mouth upon realizing that she wasn’t taking his waving hand across his neck cue to shut up. “But that’s only the big ones, most of them don’t grow much higher than a Cake Hound,” Dark Choco said reassuringly. “How big can they get though?” Red Velvet said, sweating nervously. Dark Choco Cookie hummed softly. Pomegranate Cookie removed his hand from her mouth, “I believe in the importance of honesty, Dark Choco Cookie. In my opinion, their history gives us all the reason to tell them,” Pomegranate Cookie said, taking her mirror out of her robes and staring into it. Dark Choco Cookie sighed, “Alright, Dragon’s Hill is known for its Jelly Worm population, but most of them don’t get big enough to do much damage. In some cases, they can get almost as big as a Werehound, like Schwarzwälder. And in the wild, some can grow bigger than a Cookie House. But I don’t think we’ll have to deal with anything that serious.”

The trio looked at one another nervously. “Well….” Red Velvet said slowly, “If Dark Choco Cookie says we don’t have anything to worry about then… I trust him,” he said with a smile. “No need to worry, Cookies! If anything tries to hurt you, Choco Werehound Brute SMASH them flat with hammer!” Schwarzwälder shouted. Licorice Cookie smiled at his Cake, “Yeah, and besides, we’ve fought worse and won!” Poison Mushroom Cookie nodded. Dark Choco Cookie planted his sword in the ground next to him. “As long as we stick together we should be just fine. Cookies’ strength draws from their Unity after all. That’s what my father always taught me. But let’s be careful all the same. Perhaps it would be better if the warriors like me, Red Velvet and Schwarzwälder led the way. Licorice, you, your Minions, and Pomegranate can follow behind for support, and Poison Mushroom Cookie can bring up the rear. He can throw his Shroomies long distances so he can handle long ranged attacks.”

Red Velvet Cookie nodded, “Sounds like a plan.” Licorice Cookie rolled his eyes, “You’d agree with Dark Choco Cookie no matter what he says,” he mumbled as he got into position behind Red Velvet. “He’s a warrior, he’s led armies, he knows what he’s doing,” Red Velvet said, crossing his mismatched arms over his chest. “I do agree with that. And there is a method to his madness, the bigger, stronger Cookies take the front to protect the smaller, weaker ones. While the ones behind them provide support with their magic,” Pomegranate Cookie explained, waving her mirror. Dark Choco Cookie hummed softly, “You’ve been traveling with me too long, Pomegranate Cookie. At this point you know all my military secrets,” he chuckled.

And so, with the team’s positions decided, the group of Cookies continued on their way. Poison Mushroom Cookie watched the sparkling waters of the river next to them with wide eyes. “So pretty,” he breathed. “Dragon’s Hill is a popular place for young warriors to come to train. The wide open spaces are perfect for running and breathing exercises,” Dark Choco Cookie explained. Red Velvet Cookie raised an eyebrow, “Breathing? Warriors have to breathe a certain way?” Dark Choco Cookie nodded, “Why yes. It’s an ancient technique called Dual Breathing. Y’know I suppose it’s about time I gave you your first warrior lesson and learning that technique would be a good place to start.” Red Velvet Cookie nodded, he shuddered with excitement despite his first lesson being such a simple one. Still, it was his very first lesson in becoming a warrior. “The purpose of Dual Breathing is to increase oxygen flow, this also helps a warrior's concentration once it is mastered. The pattern is very simple, in - out - out - in - out - in - in - out, repeat.”

“In - out - out - in - in…”

“No, no, no, no, in - out - out - in - out, then in - in - out,” Dark Choco Cookie corrected.

“So how do I breathe out twice? Do I just…” Red Velvet Cookie questioned.

“Breathe out once, then again deeper, do the same with the third and fourth inhale. Just follow me, in.” Red Velvet Cookie a deep breath, “Now out, good, out again…” “That kinda hurts,” Red Velvet Cookie said, he was already starting to get winded. Dark Choco Cookie chuckled softly, “That’s just because your lungs aren’t used to it yet. They’ll get stronger as you do if you keep at it,” he said softly. “Okay!” Red Velvet Cookie said, determination shining in his mismatched eyes. Licorice Cookie chuckled, “To think, getting so excited over something like breathing.” Pomegranate giggled softly, “Admittedly, as much rambling as he does, some of Dark Choco Cookie’s insights are quite helpful. I’ve actually learned that technique from him, it really does help with stamina when traveling long distances.” Red Velvet Cookie looked up at Dark Choco, “Hey, Dark Choco Cookie! You said warriors would come to this place to train here, so is this where we’re going to train after we rescue Bat-Cat?!” The Prince hummed softly, “It’s best not to limit yourself to one training ground, but Dragon’s Hill would be a good option. There’s a lot of history here.”

“What kind of history?” Red Velvet Cookie asked, tilting his head. “Did you not hear me when I mentioned the Ancient Heroes fought a Dragon in these very hills?” Dark Choco Cookie chuckled. “Hey, Dark Choco Cookie!” Licorice Cookie piped up, “If your dad was one of the Ancient Heroes, did you know any of the other Heroes?” Dark Choco Cookie looked over his shoulder at the Dark Wizard with a smile, “Why of course, as a child I considered them part of my family. I even called them my Aunties and Uncle,” he chuckled. “Awwww,” Red Velvet Cookie said. “What were they like?” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked. “They were all very…. Different…” Dark Choco Cookie said slowly. “Now, Hollyberry Cookie was the most energetic of the group. Loved a good party and enjoyed Berry Juice quite a bit. Hahaha, Father never approved of her drinking. He would never let me have any out of fear I’d end up addicted to it like her. Of course, she was the one who introduced me to the beverage, hahaha.”

“I would have liked to have met her, she seems like a lot of fun,” Pomegranate Cookie said. “Oh, she was. Had the most excellent sense of humor and seemed to carry the sun around her shoulders. She’d always bring me a bunch of gifts on the rare occasions he’d visit my Father’s kingdom. She always said our lands were much too cold and gloomy for her taste, hahaha. But my Father respected what an excellent fighter she was. Jumped into harm’s way without a second's hesitation to protect the ones she cared about.”

“Kinda like Red Velvet Cookie,” Licorice Cookie piped up. The Cake-Cookie cleared his throat loudly. “And then there was my Auntie Golden Cheese Cookie,” Dark Choco Cookie continued, “Whose taste was a bit more…. Expensive. She was always decked in gold from head to toe. But what she took the most pride in were her wings. She had the most beautiful, perfect golden wings. Her people compared her to a goddess…” “A Cookie with wings?” Red Velvet Cookie questioned. “Says the Cookie with the arm of a Cake,” Dark Choco Cookie chuckled. Red Velvet Cookie rolled his eyes. Dark Choco Cookie continued, “She enjoyed riches a little too much in my father’s opinion. And she did like to have things her way I’ll admit. She always seemed to complain about the smallest and most insignificant things. Come to think of it, I don't think she ever visited my Father’s kingdom, nor he hers. I only ever saw her when Father would bring me to the Unity Meetings.”

“What are Unity Meetings?” Red Velvet Cookie asked. “Once a month the Ancient Heroes would gather together in the Vanilia Kingdom… Just to catch up on things. You must remember they were best friends. They only ever seemed to be complete when they were all together. I was lucky enough to see them in action during a few battles. It was an amazing sight. Never before nor since have I ever seen a group of Cookies move and act in such perfect tandem. It was almost as if they were all one Cookie. Father told me that many a time during a battle with his friends, he could have sworn he heard White Lily Cookie’s heartbeat beating in sync with his own. Or his breathing matching Pure Vanilla Cookie’s.”

“What were White Lily and Pure Vanilla Cookie like?” Red Velvet asked. Dark Choco Cookie chuckled, “Geeze, where do I start? Those two were… Well, Father always said they were troublemakers. You couldn’t leave them alone in the same room for very long otherwise they’d be getting into some kind of mischief purely out of curiosity. They were the closest of the Heroes. Hahaha, I remember Father and the others would tease them all the time about the two of them being madly in love with one another. They always denied it, but it was fairly obvious they were sweet on each other. Even after Auntie Lily’s transformation.”

“Transformation?” Red Velvet Cookie asked. Dark Choco Cookie blinked, remembering he’d left out a very important part of the story, “Oh right… Um… I may need to back up a bit. You see, Red Velvet Cookie, before the Great Cookie Revolution, the great battle when the Ancient Heroes overthrew the Witches and put up the barrier between their world and ours, there was a group of Cookies called the St. Pastry Order. They believed that the Witches were… Kind and loving creators who used their powers to protect Cookie Kind, and they worshiped them as gods.” Red Velvet Cookie stuck his finger in his mouth and made a gagging noise. “Ugh, pl—ease tell me you’re joking!” he cried. Dark Choco Cookie shook his head, “Nope, if I’m remembering correctly even Auntie Lily and Hollyberry and Uncle Vanilia followed such practices. The St. Pastry Order was one of if not the most powerful organization in all of Earthbread. Their teachings, though false, were common practice and interwoven into many aspects of Cookie society. Since Ovenbaked Cookies made up such a small part of the population I imagine no one dared to challenge them with the truth. Some of the Sisters of the Order were secretly trained from childhood to be assassins. Trained to keep the truth hidden, so that their power could grow. But then, Pure Vanilla Cookie and White Lily Cookie decided to find out the reason why Cookies were created by the Witches from the Witches themselves.”

“What?” Red Velvet Cookie said in disbelief. “They did so by traveling to the tower where the Witches held a grand feast every thousand years,” Dark Choco Cookie continued, “A celebration known among Cookie Kind as the Night of the Witches. There, they learned the truth, White Lily Cookie was captured by the Witches and trapped inside a burning oven… And baked alive…”

Red Velvet Cookie turned pale. He had very vague memories of the Oven. Of his first few seconds of existence being ones of intense pain and heat. Before escaping the Witch, Cookies first had to escape the Oven. If they waited for the Witch to open the doors it would be too late for them. He remembered the other 11 Cookies in his batch didn’t make it. Some fell into the fires below trying to escape, some fell off the counter and crumbled in their haste, some were captured and eaten, one didn’t even bother, she just sat in the oven and waited for the Witch to find her and eat her. It was a sad sight to witness, the complete and total lack of hope in her eyes. Her eyes looked dead already, she’d already accepted her fate. Red Velvet Cookie tried to shake the thought out of his head. Looking behind him he could tell Licorice and Poison Mushroom Cookie were thinking the same thing. The three of them had all been the sole survivors of their respective batches. They were the lucky ones. It felt unfair sometimes, why them and not the others? Every Ovenbaked Cookie was created with 11 brothers and/or sisters, just one surviving was a miracle in itself. Red Velvet Cookie never thought about his jam family, the other Cookies who’d perished that day. He always tried to push the memory of their looks of terror or screams out of his head but… The sights and sounds still haunted his nightmares to this day.

The thought of being placed back inside that hell. Alone… It made him want to cry and throw up at the same time. “It was lucky she had her Soul Jam with her, without it she wouldn’t have survived,” Dark Choco Cookie continued. “She survived!?” Licorice Cookie shouted in disbelief. “Yes, but the fires had changed her physically. Her dough had been mixed with different ingredients… The Cookie that went into the oven that night was very different from the Cookie that came out…. Physically at least,” Dark Choco Cookie chuckled. “Uncle Vanilia always said her heart remained much the same. White Lily Cookie was reborn against anyone’s will but her own. She came out stronger and more determined. Driven by a purpose to prevent anyone else from having to suffer through the same torture she did. To think… Suffering through so much pain and torment… And it only made her kind.”

“Wow,” Red Velvet Cookie breathed, “What was she like after?” Dark Choco Cookie looked off to the distance and smiled, “Stronger, much stronger. But still as kind and loving as she was as White Lily Cookie. But afterwards, her true powers had awoken and ever since then, she’d gone by the name, Dark Enchantress Cookie.” “Wait, wait, wait, wait!” Licorice Cookie shouted, “Dark Enchantress Cookie? The Mother of Dark Magic?” Pomegranate Cookie looked at him in surprise, “How do you know about her?” Licorice Cookie rolled his eyes, “I’m a Dark Wizard! If you’re a Dark Wizard you gotta know about Dark Enchantress Cookie, she wrote the book on the importance of ethics in Dark Magic! A book I’ve read cover to cover at least 27 times! She found a way to perform spells that required jam sacrifices without actually sacrificing anything!” Pomegranate Cookie blinked in surprise, “Ok, now you’ve got my interest, how do you do a jam sacrifice without sacrificing something?” she asked. “You just use jam. You can use your own actually. She did it by cutting her wrist and oozing into a jar for several weeks.”

Dark Choco Cookie chuckled, “I remember Father telling me about that one. Auntie Lily was always doing some sort of Magic experiment or other. She was always so keen on finding ways to better the lives of others. Even before she received her dark powers.” he chuckled softly, “I think Uncle Vanilia actually became more protective of her afterwards though. He was always protective of his friends but after the Night of the Witches, he almost wouldn’t let her out of his sight. He made her move into the castle with him so she could be close to him. I suppose he had his right to be worried though. Her mind didn’t come back from that night the same. She was traumatized. She couldn’t be near fires or hear the sound of metal slamming without her mind trapping her in the memories of that night. Being forced to relive the fire and pain and fear in her head.”

“So she suffered from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder?” Licorice Cookie asked. “Post traumama wha?” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked. “Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD. Yes, it’s not uncommon for some of our warriors to come back with it after a particularly devastating battle. As a result, we of the Dark Cacao Kingdom have adapted. We have many books on how to treat such mental ailments. My father offered to teach her some techniques… Her condition improved after a while, luckily. She stayed at my Father’s kingdom while she was being treated. Of course, it wasn’t uncommon to see her there. Even before, she’d spent much time in my kingdom helping the wounded and conducting experiments and studies on Cookie anatomy. She was always so fascinated by how the Cookies of my kingdom grew so strong, and she wanted to learn if there was anything from our kingdom, such as our diet or lifestyle, that could be brought back to the rest of Earthbread to help softer or weaker Cookies.”

He looked off into the distance, “She was the closest thing I had to a mother in all honesty.” They were silent for a moment, “I can only imagine,” Red Velvet finally said, “What it would have been like to grow up with so many… Amazing role models! Heroes, and Kings, and Queens!” Dark Choco Cookie chuckled, “My Father is a great Hero and King, it’s not an easy pair of boots to fill. As his son, I am next in line to inherit the throne of the Dark Cacao Kingdom. But I can hardly say I’ve earned it yet,” he said, looking off again. “I think you have, Dark Choco Cookie! You’re an amazing warrior!” Red Velvet cheered. Pomegranate Cookie nodded in agreement. The Prince chuckled softly, “You haven’t met my father or his friends. As a matter of fact–”

Chiffon suddenly barked loudly and ran ahead, his tail wagging behind him. “Chiffon, wait up buddy! We’re supposed to stay together, remember?!” Red Velvet Cookie shouted, running after the pupcake. “Hmmm? It would seem he’s found something,” Dark Choco Cookie said. The group found Chiffon sniffing at something small and shiny half-buried in the ground. “Be careful, Red Velvet Cookie! We have no idea what that is!” Licorice Cookie exclaimed. Dark Choco Cookie bent down to examine the thing. “Hmmm… Looks like a weapon of some sort.” Red Velvet Cookie took it from Chiffon after the pupcake dug it up. It was silver, shaped like a four-pointed star with a hole in the center. Red Velvet Cookie brushed the dirt off of it. “Why, that’s a four-pointed shuriken, a throwing star. Hey, hey, hey! Careful, Red Velvet Cookie. Sometimes the tips of these particular weapons are coated with poison,” Dark Choco Cookie warned. “Woah,” Red Velvet Cookie said, examining the weapon in his hands. “This thing is nifty!”

“It looks brand new as well. There’s no rust or sign of wear, it must belong to someone,” Dark Choco Cookie said, looking around for a sign for any other Cookies. But all there was only plants and berry bushes. There weren't even any footprints on the road. “Better keep it safe in case we find who it belongs to. If they’re not an ally of the Cookies of Night, that is,” Dark Choco Cookie said, narrowing his eye. “Hey guys… Where’s Poison Mushroom Cookie?!” Licorice Cookie shouted, his voice growing higher and more panicked with each word. Red Velvet Cookie’s head whipped in the direction that Poison Mushroom Cookie had been standing a few seconds ago, “Oh no, not again…” He sighed. “Poison Mushroom Cookie!” Licorice Cookie shouted, cupping his hands around his mouth and calling his name. “But he was here just a second ago,” Pomegranate Cookie said. “He probably wandered off again,” Red Velvet Cookie sighed, “Chiffon, think you can find him?” Chiffon barked and sniffed the air. Schwarzwälder did the same. It didn’t take long for the pupcake and the Werehound to pick up a scent. “FOUND HIM! THIS WAY!” Schwarzwälder shouted.

Chasing after the two Cakes the group found the little Cookie sitting in a glade surrounded by light yellow flowers with a sweet vanilla scent. Licorice Cookie sighed in relief before angrily marching up to the fungus flavored Cookie, “Poison Mushroom Cookie! How many times have I told you not to go wandering off!? You had us worried sick! Do you have any idea how long it would have taken us to find you if we hadn’t had Chiffon’s and Schwarzwälder’s help!?!” He scolded. Poison Mushroom Cookie looked up, smiling, with a flower petal in his mouth. Licorice Cookie sighed, “Were you…? No, Poison Mushroom Cookie, stop. Don’t eat the flowers,” he said, taking the flower out of his hand and speaking softer than he was a moment before but still being firm. Poison Mushroom Cookie chuckled, “They smell so sweet, I wondered if they tasted sweet too!” Licorice Cookie rolled his eyes, “Did they?” Poison Mushroom Cookie shrugged, “They smell better.” Licorice Cookie had to stop himself from smiling at the small Cookie’s innocent answer.

“Wow! So many flowers!” Red Velvet Cookie said, looking around the glade. “These are Vanilla Orchids. Named so because of their strong vanilla scent. Pure Vanilla Cookie’s magic staff was an enchanted version of one of these,” Dark Choco Cookie said, smiling at the fond memories the scent of the flowers brought forth. Poison Mushroom Cookie offered Licorice Cookie one of the flowers and smiled sweetly. Licorice Cookie couldn’t help but smile this time. Chiffon was rolling around in the flowers with his tongue stuck out to one side, the sight was so cute Red Velvet couldn’t help but rub the pupcake’s belly. Pomegranate Cookie had gotten distracted making a flower crown with the Orchids. Dark Choco Cookie smiled at the sight of his friends, smiling and laughing. The smell of the flowers was naturally soothing, and the glade gave a feeling of relaxation and safety.

But then… That veil of safety was ripped away. It started as a light vibration. Nearly impossible to feel. But then it grew stronger, louder. It became intense shaking, the ground became like the choppy waves of a raging ocean. Dark Choco Cookie drew his sword, Poison Mushroom Cookie clung to Licorice Cookie’s robes, “Wha—What’s happening? Why is the ground shaking!?” he shouted. “Earthquake!” Schwarzwälder shouted. “No…” Dark Choco Cookie said gravely, “It’s not an Earthquake.” A small, multi-colored creature with spikes on its head popped out of the ground. It was long and its body was made of round segments. It looked at the Cookies with its beady eyes and hissed. Then another popped out of the ground next to it. Then another, then five more. One popped out from underneath Chiffon and sent the pupcake flying with a yelp. “Chiffon!” Red Velvet Cookie shouted. Chiffon landed on his side and whimpered softly. Red Velvet looked down at the Jelly Worm, who was chuckling mockingly at the Cake-Cookie hybrid. “Alright, that’s it!” He shouted, raising his sword. But before he could swing, the creature bit down into his leg with its razor-sharp teeth.

Red Velvet Cookie screamed and tried to shake the Jelly Worm off. It was latched on tight, so he kicked it against the ground. He ended up hurting his foot in the process but it got the Jelly Worm off. It slithered back into the ground with a hiss. None of Red Velvet Cookie’s friends were doing much better. Dark Choco Cookie tried to attack the Jelly Worms with his Lightning Strikes but the Worms would pop back into the ground before the spell hit. They would resurface under the Cookies’ feet and bite into their legs or stab them with their head spikes. Schwarzwälder tried bashing them with his hammer but they would just disappear into the ground and reappear, teasing and taunting the Werehound. Schwarzwälder was only growing angrier and angrier and started wacking the ground more frantically and uncontrollably. Pomegranate Cookie watched as the Jelly Worms continued to attack her friends without them making much progress in fighting back. One popped in front of her, startling her and causing her to fall back and land hard. The Jelly Worm stuck its tongue out and laughed loudly.

She growled angrily, “Why you!” She waved her rod and used her magic to pull the Jelly Worm out of the ground. The creature let out a high-pitched yelp of surprise as it suddenly realized it had been forcefully removed from the safety of the ground and was suddenly being held in mid-air. The creature looked down, then back at Pomegranate, who was slowly smiling behind her hand. The Jelly Worm shook its head in a pleading attempt for her to stop thinking whatever she was thinking. “Hey! Dark Choco Cookie~!” Pomegranate Cookie called in a sing-songy voice. He looked up, he had been trying to stomp on the Jelly Worms as they came out of the ground. But then he saw her holding the Worm in her magic and smiled. “Heads up!” She called, using her magic to toss the Jelly Worm towards him. It screamed as it was sent flying through the air. Dark magic gathered around Dark Choco Cookie’s sword and condensed into a lightning strike. The Jelly Worm was blasted back, it hit the ground hard. And slowly disappeared back into the ground, still smoking from the blast.

The other Cookies saw what had happened. Licorice Cookie and Pomegranate Cookie smiled at one another. “Schwarzwälder! Stop!” Licorice Cookie shouted. The Werehound looked up, panting and sweating as the Jelly Worms resurfaced, laughing. “Instead of playing Whack-a-Mole…” he said, ripping up several jeering Jelly Worms from the ground with his magic and holding them in the air, “Why don’t we play baseball instead!? Go long!” He shouted, tossing the Jelly Worms towards him. Schwarzwälder smiled and swung. He sent the Jelly Worms flying, Poison Mushroom Cookie giggled and tossed his Shroomies into the air, they exploded in mid-air and sent the airborne Jelly Worms flying in all directions. They landed and wiggled around in confusion from the effects of the psychedelic poison. “Nice work, Pomy!” Dark Choco Cookie cheered. “Hey, Licorice Cookie! I’m open!” Red Velvet Cookie shouted. Licorice Cookie leveated a few more unsuspecting Jelly Worms into the air as they popped out of the ground to attack and launched them towards Red Velvet Cookie. He slashed a few with his sword, clawed a few with his Cake Hand, and even caught one in his hand. “Chiffon! Here boy!” Chiffon ran up to him, eyes sparkling and tail wagging, “Fetch!” He shouted, throwing the Jelly Worm. Chiffon ran after it, caught it, tossed it around a few times by shaking his head back and forth and finally let go. The Jelly Worm disappeared underground, and didn’t resurface again.

The Jelly Worms seemed to have stopped their advance. The glade was quiet again, although the ground was filled with Jelly Worm holes now. While the other Cookies were laughing or high-fiving, Red Velvet Cookie was giving Chiffon “good-boy” headpats and cooing at his little Cake Hound, but Dark Choco Cookie… He still hadn’t put his weapon away, he was still watching the ground, waiting. “Dark Choco Cookie?” Pomegranate Cookie said softly. “Those Jelly Worms were too small to make tremors that size,” he said softly. The Cookies looked at one another in confusion. “But… There were a lot of them… Maybe, that’s why…” Red Velvet Cookie suggested. Dark Choco Cookie shook his head, he kept watching the ground, his eyes scanning this way and that.

The tremors returned. Small at first, but slowly growing louder and stronger. “Everyone, get behind me, now!” Dark Choco Cookie shouted. The tremors, the tone in his voice, the look in his eye… No one bothered to argue. The tremors were getting so strong that it was almost impossible to run without falling over, but the group managed to get behind Dark Choco Cookie. Poison Mushroom Cookie hugged Pomegranate Cookie tight, Pomegranate held up her mirror, Chiffon growled and bared his teeth, Licorina hugged her Master’s neck, trying to sink further into his hood, Dark Choco Cookie glared at the ground where the shaking was strongest. Cracks began to appear in the ground.

The ground ripped open and dirt rained upon the Cookies as the earth gave way to a giant Jelly Worm the size of a Cookie House. It rose slowly out of the ground, turned its head towards the Cookies, its large black eyes staring down at them. “Dark ChoCO COOKIE!” Red Velvet Cookie shouted, “I THOUGHT YOU SAID THERE WOULDN’T BE ANY THIS SIZE AROUND HERE!” “Well, I was wrong, ok!?” Dark Choco Cookie shouted. “SHADOWBOLT STRIKE!” Licorice Cookie shouted, running to the front and blasting the Jelly Worm. The attack hit at close range, the Jelly Worm lurched back slightly as smoke rose from where the blast hit. But it quickly recovered and glared at the Dark Wizard, growling, baring its teeth, slowly opening her mouth. Trails of saliva between its giant teeth. “Oh… Shadows…” Licorice Cookie squeaked. The monster roared. Several of the Cookies screamed. Even Dark Choco Cookie’s resolve was wavering as his sword grew heavy in his hands.

The Worm lunged to attack but it never made its mark. A ball of light flew out of the forest and hit the creature. Then another and another. A shower of comet-like balls of light rained down upon the Jelly Worm from somewhere within the glade. The source of the shooting stars was a blinding wall of light from within the glade. It grew brighter and brighter and the giant Worm hissed in pain as its sensitive eyes burned from the intensity of the light attacks. One of the attacks hit it square between the eyes and it reared back and howled in pain. The world shook as it dived back into the ground and disappeared. Red Velvet Cookie had to shield his eyes with his Cake Hand from the intensity of the light that had been the Cookies’ saving grace. “What… What is that?” Dark Choco Cookie said. Through squinted eyes, Red Velvet Cookie could barely make out a figure. “I… I think it’s a Cookie,” he said.

As the light slowly died down, the figure became clearer. A Cookie, dressed in dirty hooded robes, a mess of cream-colored hair, dirty bandages wrapped over his eyes, and he held a staff in his hand. The end of the staff was covered in bandages as well. He slowly stepped forwards, almost tripped once, then placed the tip of the staff on the ground in front of him and began to move it back and forth as he walked. The Cookies weren’t sure what to think. “He has bandages over his eyes, is he cursed?” Licorice Cookie whispered to Dark Choco, “No. The cursed bandages are covered in glowing runes. Those look normal. And judging by the way he’s using his staff, I’d say he’s blind,” Dark Choco Cookie replied. “Hello?” The Cookie asked, raising his head and clutching his staff. Red Velvet Cookie decided to step forwards. “Hi, are… Are you the one who saved us?”

The Cookie smiled, “I… I don’t know… Is the Jelly Worm gone?” Red Velvet Cookie nodded and relaxed. “Yeah, it’s gone.” The Cookie sighed in relief, “Thank goodness, I thought I’d heard voices, it’s nice to see such lively company. That is… If I could see of course,” the Cookie laughed softly, it was a warm and bubbly laugh. “Those Jelly Worms can be pretty mean, luckily they’re weak to light.” Licorice Cookie stepped forwards, “That was some pretty impressive magic! Thanks for helping us out back there!” The Cookie smiled, “I’m glad I could help.” Dark Choco Cookie put his sword away. Poison Mushroom Cookie ran to join Red Velvet and Licorice Cookie, “Hi new friend!” he cheered. “That’s Poison Mushroom Cookie,” Red Velvet Cookie said, “And these are my friends, Licorice, Dark Choco, Pomegranate, Schwarzwälder…” Chiffon barked happily, Red Velvet Cookie chuckled, “And that’s my buddy, Chiffon.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you all. It’s been a long time since I’ve heard so many new voices,” the blind Cookie said with a smile. “What’s your name?” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked. The Cookie’s smile disappeared. “My… Name?” He shifted uncomfortably. “I… I’m afraid I don’t… Remember.” Red Velvet Cookie blinked, “You don’t remember your name?” he asked. “I’m afraid I… Don’t remember anything,” he said sadly. “Have you lost your memory?” Dark Choco Cookie asked, stepping forwards. “Yes… I’m afraid so… I’ve been wandering this forest, seeking fragments of my memory. I… Hoped I could find something that might help me remember who I am or… Who I was… These flowers… Their scent is very familiar. It reminds me of happy times with someone close to me… But the memory is incomplete… There’s something missing. I… I can’t… Remember… I can’t… Remember…” He said, his voice growing softer and softer with each word. Red Velvet Cookie felt a pang of pity and sorrow for the Cookie. He could only imagine what that felt like, to lose your memory. To have no idea of who you were. To have only questions and no answers. Wandering a strange land, all alone.

Chiffon suddenly cried out. Red Velvet gasped, “Chiffon! Hey, buddy, a-are you ok?” the pupcake whimpered loudly, his ears flattened against his head. Red Velvet picked him up and cradled him close to his chest. “Sussh, sussh, it’s okay, buddy, I’m here. Oh, oh, you’re hurt!” he cried. “Really? H-here, let me see,” the blind Cookie said, holding his hand out. Red Velvet Cookie was a little confused. But he slowly drew closer to the Cookie to let him touch Chiffon. The Cake Hound whimpered softly as the blind Cookie ran his hand over his soft fur. He yelped out in pain when he touched a sore spot from where the Jelly Worm had attacked him earlier. “Ah, I see. Yes, the dough feels quite tender here. There, there now little friend. Let me heal your pains,” he said softly, raising his staff as a soft light emanated from it. “You can heal?” Pomegranate Cookie said, standing next to Red Velvet Cookie. “It’s the only thing I know how to do,” the Cookie said with a soft chuckle. The soft light surrounded the pupcake and he seemed to relax in Red Velvet’s arms. As soon as the light disappeared, Chiffon started wagging his tail with as much vigor as was typical of the little Cake. “Hey… Hey buddy, a-are you feeling better now?” Red Velvet Cookie said to his Cake.

Chiffon barked happily. The blind Cookie gently petted the tiny Cake, “I suppose that’s a yes,” he chuckled. Chiffon suddenly jumped out of Red Velvet’s arms and knocked the Cookie to the ground. He began to drown the blind Cookie in puppy kisses with his tiny tongue. The Cookie laughed loudly as Chiffon showered him with affection and gratitude in his Cake way. “Chiffon, c’mon now, buddy,” Red Velvet laughed as he picked up his little Cake. Pomegranate Cookie helped the blind healer to his feet. “Ah, thank you, my dear,” he said softly. “Hey… I just thought of something,” Red Velvet Cookie said, “Since you can’t remember your name and… Well, we need to call you something since you can heal, why don’t we call you… Healer Cookie?” The Cookie rubbed his staff, “Healer Cookie…” he said slowly, “Healer Cookie… Yes, I like that. That will do quite nicely. At least until I remember my true name.”

“You know,” Dark Choco Cookie said, “It’s quite dangerous for a Cookie like you to be traveling the forest all by yourself. Why don’t you come with us?” he suggested. Poison Mushroom Cookie smiled, “Yeah! You can help us find the Cookies who took Bat-Cat!” Licorice Cookie then filled Healer Cookie in on the whole story. His smile grew bigger and bigger as he listened, “My, my, that all sounds like quite an exciting adventure! I used to be quite fond of adventures…. I think…? Hearing so many friendly voices… It… I can… I can almost remember…” He sighed. “It eludes me still… But I’m sure it will come back to me in due time.” Red Velvet Cookie nodded, “I sure hope so. And besides, your healing magic will definitely come in handy.” “I agree, having an extra healer on the team will take some of the load off of Pomegranate Cookie,” Dark Choco Cookie said, smiling at his companion. “I’d love to help! Besides, I’m more likely to find my memories traveling with a group than alone. I don’t think I was alone in a lot of my memories. No… No, I was most certainly with other Cookies. If only I could remember them.”

Red Velvet Cookie slowly placed his Cake hand into Healer Cookie’s free hand. “Don’t worry,” he said with a smile, “You can help us get Bat-Cat back, and we can help you find your memories. After all, that’s what friends are for!” Healer Cookie seemed to stiffen for a second. “Friends?” He relaxed and slowly smiled, “Yes…yes…. Going on an adventure… With my friends…” Somewhere in the back of his mind, the fog began to clear ever so slightly.

“C’mon **** ***** Cookie! Try and keep up!”

“********** Cookie, slow down!”

“Watch it! You almost got my wings dirty!”

A warm hand placed itself inside his, a familiar face smiled at him, and a beautiful laugh filled the air.

“My friends…”

Chapter Text

"So, how do you think you lost your memory?"

"Red Velvet Cookie! Don't ask those kinds of questions!" Dark Choco Cookie scolded. Healer Cookie chuckled softly. "No, no, it's alright. It's good for him to be curious. Curiosity is what allows us to grow and learn after all. And the more we know about others and the world around us the more we understand them. And understanding is the key to harmony." Red Velvet Cookie blinked. "Ooooookaaaaay, you lost me." Pomegranate Cookie tugged on Healer Cookie's sleeve, "Watch your step, there's a ledge here." She had been holding Healer Cookie's hand to help guide the blind Cookie. "Ah, thank you, dear," Healer Cookie said with a sweet smile as he felt the ground in front of him with his staff. "What I mean is," he continued, "Imagine all the fights and arguments and even wars that have started all because of a misunderstanding. All the mean and hurtful things Cookies say and do to those who are different than them. If we choose to learn about and understand those things, rather than fear them or see them as strange, then the world becomes a much more peaceful place. Red Velvet Cookie, you are a Cookie who is part Cake, right?" Red Velvet Cookie nodded, "Right." He rubbed his Cake arm with his Cookie hand, smiling with pride at the appendage. "How would you feel if you met a Cookie who said you were a... Freak... For not fully being one thing or the other?" Red Velvet Cookie blinked. All the Cookies he'd met on their journey so far had looked at his Cake attributes with excitement or fascination. But... He could understand why someone would see it another way. He could see a Cookie fearing him or labeling him in such a way. He looked down at his Cake arm, his pride in it faltering ever so slightly. "I... Guess I would feel..." He couldn't finish the sentence. He couldn't find the words. "It would hurt, wouldn't it?" Healer Cookie offered. Red Velvet Cookie nodded, before remembering Healer Cookie was blind and replying, "Yeah... Yeah, it would." Chiffon's ears lowered slightly and he nuzzled against Red Velvet Cookie's ankle. He smiled at his pupcake. "Careful, there's a root here," Pomegranate said. Healer Cookie continued as he allowed the Priestess to pull him over the root, "But, if that Cookie got to know you better... Began to... Understand you and how your differences are an asset. How your uniqueness should be celebrated and not shunned, then... Perhaps, that Cookie would... Change their mind."

"Yeah, I think I see where Healer Cookie is going with this," Licorice Cookie added. "Dark Wizards used to be feared before everyone realized all the good that our magic could do. Once they understood that, they were more... Accepting." Healer Cookie nodded, "Precisely. You know, one of my dearest friends was shunned and hurt by others because she was different. But with the help of her friends, she learned that her uniqueness allowed her to see the world in a way that others could not see. It allowed her to make discoveries that no one else had done before. Perform feats that no one else had dared to try! But she wouldn't have been brave enough to do so if we hadn't been willing to accept and encourage her... Unusual ideas. That is why we should be willing to ask questions, and not take offense when they are asked. Those types of questions are important, they help us find unity in our diversity, Dark Choco Cookie."

The prince looked away, mulling over the blind healer's words. "I suppose you're right," he finally said. "You are... Very wise, Healer Cookie." Healer Cookie shook his head sadly, "I'm afraid that's not entirely true. Wisdom requires experience, and I'm afraid most of my experiences are... Lost in the cloud of my mind." Pomegranate Cookie looked at him pityingly, "It must be very hard... Not being able to remember your friends or your home. I know I wasn't very fond of my home, but I still have some fond memories of it. Of old friends and... Familiar things." Dark Choco Cookie nodded in agreement. Forgetting his homeland and his purpose he felt would be a fate worse than death. "There are some things at times I wish I could forget, but... I know within those bitter memories hold great lessons that I would not trade for anything in all of Earthbread!" Healer Cookie came to a stop with a jerk. He let out a strange sound, a sort of half gasp. The rest of the group stopped. "Healer Cookie... What's wrong?" Poison Mushroom Cookie asked. "I... I... I-I... I'm sorry... Can... Can you... Repeat what you just said... Dark Choco Cookie?" The Prince blinked in confusion, and slowly said, "That... There are things I sometimes think I would like to forget... But, if I forgot them I would not be the Cookie I am today. My every loss and..." He placed his hand over his scar, "Sacrifice... They all taught me something. Made me stronger. Molded me into the Cookie I am today." He stopped when he noticed Healer Cookie was shaking. "I... I'm sorry... I... Didn't mean to upset you," The Prince said. "She... She... She..." Healer Cookie was saying softly. Dark Choco Cookie titled his head. "She? She who? Your special friend?" Poison Mushroom Cookie asked. "Healer Cookie, are you remembering something?" Pomegranate Cookie asked. "She... Didn't want to forget either."

"Forget what?" Red Velvet Cookie asked. "I can't... Remember..." Healer Cookie breathed, his voice was cracking as if he were on the verge of tears. "I can't... Remember." He let go of Pomegranate Cookie's hand and began smacking his head with his palm as if trying to knock the memory loose from the sea of mud in his mind. The image was hazy, her voice was garbled. But Dark Choco Cookie's words had allowed that exact moment to surface.

"I don't want to forget what happened that night. ---- -------- Cookie. Yes, it was... ------------ but... When you think about it... The ------- gave me what I'd been praying to them for all these years..."

He could almost remember where they were standing, what they had been talking about the moment before, but it was like trying to hold smoke in his hand, and the details slowly faded back into his mind where he couldn't reach. He let out a long defeated sigh, "I can't... Remember." Pomegranate Cookie had grabbed his hand to prevent him from hurting himself. "Healer Cookie, please!" He shook his head and breathed slowly, collecting himself before saying in a shaking voice. "I... I apologize. I... Lost myself for a second." Pomegranate Cookie placed a hand on his shoulder comfortingly. Red Velvet Cookie replied, "It's okay, Healer Cookie, we all know you're going through something really hard." Poison Mushroom Cookie hummed softly, then smiled, "Hey! What if Pomegranate Cookie used her healing magic to bring back your memories?" The group was silent for a moment as they processed Poison Mushroom Cookie's suggestion. All eyes turned to the pink-clad healer. "Can you do that?" Healer Cookie asked. Pomegranate Cookie placed her hand over her mouth and hummed softly. "You have been able to use memory spells with your magic mirror," Dark Choco Cookie added. "Yes," Pomegranate Cookie said from behind her hand, "But in order for the spell to work the Cookie would have to look into my mirror... And Healer Cookie is..."

"Blind," Healer Cookie finished with a chuckle. "It's alright dear. My mind has been broken for so long I don't believe anyone would be able to fix it, no matter how strong their healing magic was. I'm afraid I just do not have enough strength to fight past whatever is keeping my memories from me." He rubbed his head and let out a soft moan of pain. It always hurt whenever he tried to remember his past. "Well..." Pomegranate Cookie said slowly, "What if... Instead of fixing your mind, I strengthened it instead? What if I cast a spell that would increase your mental strength? It may give you enough to be able to fight past the migraines and remember something. And then that memory may lead to another." Healer Cookie shifted on his feet, considering her words. "You know," he grinned from ear to ear, "That just might work!" "Well, it certainly wouldn't hurt to try," Licorice Cookie added. Dark Choco Cookie smiled and nodded in agreement.

A couple of moments later, Healer Cookie was sitting on his knees under a tree with Pomegranate Cookie sitting in the same position in front of him. His staff and her mirror respectively sitting beside them. Healer Cookie's hands were shaking with excitement as he placed them inside Pomegranate's. "Just breathe, ok?" she said softly. Pomegranate Cookie closed her eyes and lowered her head. The signature wind of one of her spells began to blow by, causing Healer Cookie's cloak to flutter and her leaf hair decorations to sway. A soft pink light enveloped them both. Red Velvet Cookie held his breath in anticipation, Chiffon wagging his tail at his side. Then he felt something at his feet. A vibration, the pebbles on the ground started jumping, Pomegranate Cookie opened one eye and the light began to fade. The tremors grew louder and stronger. Dark Choco Cookie's eye widened and he rushed towards Pomegranate Cookie, he had to get to her before...

"JELLY WORM!!!" Licorice Cookie shouted, seconds before the ground split open. Dirt and uprooted grass rained down upon the group of desserts as the force of the creature surfacing threw several of them to the ground. Schwarzwälder shielded Licorice and Poison Mushroom with his body from the spray of earth. The giant multi-colored serpentine creature let out a roar that shook the skies. It turned its beady eyes towards Pomegranate and Healer Cookie. Healer Cookie was fumbling in search of his staff, which had moved away from its original position when the Jelly Worm surfaced. "Healer Cookie, look out!" Pomegranate Cookie shouted, shoving the blind Cookie out of harm's way when the creature lunged forth. Its jaw wrapped around the tree the two had sat under just moments ago, and ripped it out of the ground as easily as a Cookie would pick a flower. It reared back, lifting it high into the air, shaking its head back and forth, scattering dirt, leaves, and branches as it split the tree in half between its teeth. "Incoming!" Red Velvet Cookie shouted as his friends scattered to avoid getting crushed beneath the falling tree pieces. Poison Mushroom Cookie dived into some nearby bushes, Dark Choco Cookie picked up Healer and Pomegranate Cookie and, holding one beneath each arm, carried them to safety. "My staff!" Healer Cookie cried, "Where is my staff?"

Schwarzwälder ended up getting trapped beneath a large section of the tree's branches. Leaves blocked his vision and the branches dug into his dough whenever he tried to move, their sharp edges drawing jam. Licastor and Liciam were trying to stab the creature wherever they could reach. They didn't do much damage, the Jelly Worm didn't even acknowledge the tiny creatures or the small injuries they made. They were no more than paper cuts to it. Red Velvet Cookie received a few cuts from the sharp branches as they rained down on him, but the wounds weren't too serious. He shielded his face with his Cake arm as he drew his sword. Watching from between his fingers as the Jelly Worm slowly turned. He followed the monster's gaze and gasped in horror. It was looking at Licorice Cookie, who had climbed on top of a large bolder in an attempt to get away from the Jelly Worm. The creature roared and lunged forward. "Licorice Cookie! Get out of there!" Red Velvet Cookie shouted. But it was too late. Licorice Cookie's eyes widened in terror as he realized the Jelly Worm's monstrous mouth was closing in on him. One second he saw the Worm's giant teeth glittering in the sunlight. The next he was surrounded by darkness and warm moist air. The Jelly Worm broke the rock into two pieces, the piece Licorice Cookie had been on caught in its mouth. It reared back and tossed its head around wildly, the rock now stuck in its mouth, and Licorice Cookie trapped inside. It let out a muffled guttural noise. "Licorice Cookie!" Poison Mushroom Cookie shouted. Red Velvet Cookie gripped his sword tight and ran up to the monster. Chiffon barked loudly and ran by his side. "Red Velvet Cookie, what are you doing?" Dark Choco Cookie shouted. He had been using his sword to try to cut Schwarzwälder free. The Prince and the Werehound watched as Red Velvet Cookie jumped onto the Jelly Worm's back and began to climb up the creature, towards its head.

Red Velvet Cookie almost got thrown off the Worm's back but he dug his claws into the Jelly Worm's flesh as it trashed about, with his free hand he stabbed his sword into it, and held on for dear life. The Jelly Worm threw its head back and let out a muffled roar in pain. With the rock still lodged in its mouth, it couldn't properly bite or swallow. Chiffon jumped onto Red Velvet Cookie's shoulder and barked encouragingly. Red Velvet Cookie gritted his teeth and slowly removed his Cake claw. This left him dangling in mid-air by his sword for a moment as the Worm began to slow down. It stopped its thrashing for a second to catch its breath. Once it was still enough Red Velvet Cookie threw his Cake claw over his head and dug back into the monster's skin. Slowly inching his way toward the Worm's head. Dark Choco Cookie finally managed to cut Schwarzwälder free with Licam and Licastor's help. "Shouldn't we help him?" Schwarzwälder asked. Dark Choco Cookie narrowed his eye, "We can't, not without risking hurting Red Velvet Cookie." Healer Cookie was groping around on the ground in search of his staff. "Oh, where is it? Where is it!?!"

The Jelly Worm tried biting down on the rock in its mouth to crumble it, small cracks began to appear in the boulder. Red Velvet Cookie's hand was beginning to go numb from holding onto the metal of his sword, and his Cake hand was covered in jam but he couldn't give up. Licorice Cookie was still in there and he had to save him. Red Velvet Cookie leaned against one of the Jelly Worm's horns as he slowly got to his feet. The Jelly Worm had grown still enough for him to stand without a foothold. It had grown tired from thrashing about trying to throw the little Cake-Cookie hybrid off its back. Red Velvet Cookie readjusted Chffon's position on his shoulder, and smiled at the little Pupcake, "Hold on tight, buddy." Red Velvet Cookie jumped, landing on another one of the Jelly Worm's horns. He continued jumping from spike to spike, he almost lost his footing on the spikes' smooth surface, but he dug his claw into the creature's side to steady his balance. As best he could considering every move the creature made threatened to throw him off. He slowly accended until he reached the creature's head. He held his sword in both hands, ready to plunge it into the Jelly Worm's head. But before he could cut Licorice Cookie free, the giant Jelly Worm let out a growl and tossed its head back, and without a foothold, Red Velvet Cookie was sent flying over the treetops. His yells fading out alongside a single bark from Chiffon. "Red Velvet!" Pomegranate, Dark Choco, and Schwarzwälder cried in unison.

The Jelly Worm shook its head, reared back, and plunged back into the ground. Pomegranate Cookie held onto Dark Choco Cookie to steady her balance as the ground shook wildly from the impact of the Worm upsetting the earth. After the shocks died down, all that was left from the Worm was broken pieces of fallen tree scattered about, half a rock with pebbles and dust laying around it, and two identical gaping holes in the ground. Poison Mushroom Cookie stared at the hole the Jelly Worm had disappeared into with wide eyes. "Licorice Cookie..." He said softly. The small Cookie blinked tears out of his eyes and, without warning, ran out of the bushes and dove into the hole shouting, "Don't worry Licorice Cookie, Shroomy's coming to save you!" Dark Choco Cookie gasped and ran after him, "Poison Mushroom Cookie, wait!" He stopped at the edge of the cavern and watched as Poison Mushroom Cookie disappeared into the darkness. Before the prince could protest or call for him again, Liciam and Licastor ran past him and followed after the Cookie into the tunnel. Liciam tripped and ended up falling down into the tunnel. Dark Choco Cookie winced every time he heard the small Licorice Creature cry out as he tumbled. The sound of his body repetitively hitting the dirt slowly fading the farther he descended. "Oof," Dark Choco Cookie said softly. "He's gonna be feeling that tomorrow," Schwarzwälder said, walking up to the prince and standing beside him. The Werehound looked down into the tunnel, into the darkness of the unknown.

"You're not thinking of following them as well, are you?" Dark Choco Cookie asked, "You have no idea what's down there and it's impossible to see. You could walk right into a Jelly Worm nest! It'd be suicide!" Schwarzwälder sighed and looked Dark Choco Cookie straight in the eye. He adjusted his hammer on his shoulder and replied, "Cakes only leave the Old Village when they find a Cookie they choose to protect. Choco Werehound Brute chose Licorice Cookie." Dark Choco Cookie sighed, he knew there was no point in trying to reason with the Werehound. He'd seen countless times how powerful the bond between a Cake and their Cookie could be. Heck, there were Cakes who fought alongside several of his warriors back in the Dark Cacao Kingdom. Their loyalty was unmatched. "Alright," he said looking the Werehound straight in the eye, "Be careful." Schwarzwälder nodded, howled, and ran into the maw of the underground. Pomegranate Cookie walked up to her friend. "So, what do we do now? We've lost over half our team... Licorice is stuck in the mouth of a Jelly Worm, Red Velvet Cookie got launched into the forest, and who knows where that tunnel will end... If it ends at all!" Dark Choco Cookie rubbed his forehead, "I know! I know! Just... Give me a minute..."

"Ow, ow, ow!" Healer Cookie exclaimed as he stumbled through the branches of the fallen tree in search of his staff. Pomegranate Cookie sighed and went to help him, but before she could reach him he popped out of the mess of sharp sticks, shouting "Found it!" and holding his staff high above his head. The other two Cookies were silent. Despite being unable to see their facial expressions, Healer Cookie could tell the air was tense. "Oh, um... I found something else as well," he said, holding up Pomegranate Cookie's magic mirror. That's when the former priestess got an idea, "That's it!" She took her mirror from him and held it to her face. Making eye contact with her reflection as she recited the incantation,

"Mirror mirror in my hand, help me please to understand, reveal to me the strings of fate, tell me what path should we take?"

The mirror's glass turned a foggy white for a second before the colors formed into shapes. Dark Choco Cookie smiled, Pomegranate Cookie's magic mirror allowed her to see different possible futures, and which one was most likely to occur if they made certain decisions. It had helped them get out of many a difficult situation before, surely it could do so again. "What do you see?" He asked, walking up to her. "It's still hazy but... H-hold on! There... I see... I think that's the Jelly Worm and... Two Cookies are standing in front of it. It looks like it's lying on the ground. And those Cookies look like... Uh... I can't tell the other one but I know one of them is me." Dark Choco Cookie nodded in understanding. "It would seem then that the most logical course of action would be to follow after the others and defeat the Jelly Worm!" Dark Choco Cookie exclaimed, drawing his sword and planting it in the dirt with a flourish. Pomegranate Cookie rolled her eyes, "Now Chocy, you know I don't like to draw conclusions about the advice my mirror gives me when the paths are this hazy." Dark Choco Cookie rolled his eyes, "Oh, come on Pomy! How many times has your mirror shown you two Cookies, one of them being you or me, and you couldn't figure out who the other was... And lo and behold, the other one was you or me. It's clearly telling us to go rescue Licorice Cookie!" Pomegranate Cookie sighed.

"My mirror's answer being the same or similar once or even a million times does not mean that answer is more likely to appear again."

"But doesn't history repeat itself?"

"Yes but..."

"I'm sorry... What are you talking about?" Healer Cookie asked walking up to the two with a confused expression on his face. "Oh, I was asking my magic mirror what we should do next. It... Does seem to be advising us to confront the Jelly Worm," Pomegranate Cookie replied, trying her best to ignore Dark Choco Cookie's smug smile. "Are you sure? What about Red Velvet Cookie?" Healer Cookie cried. Pomegranate Cookie looked back into her mirror as the image shifted. It changed again, and again, and again. She sighed loudly. "I'm afraid there's no way to know for sure. The paths branch off too much, there are too many possible timelines to tell which one he's most likely to take."

"Timelines?" Healer Cookie asked, raising an eyebrow. Pomegranate Cookie lowered her mirror, "My mirror allows me to see into the future... Into the many different possible futures. You see, many believe time to be like a river, one event leading to another in a steady, unbreakable path. And if something is changed in the past it affects all the events in the future, like the course of a river being changed. But, it's not... Time is more like a tree. One large branch becomes many smaller ones, and those branch off into smaller ones still. Every time we make an important decision, we create a new branch on the tree. One for each timeline, the timeline where we made the right choice, and the timeline where we made the wrong one. And that goes into the whole theory about time-travel and alternate universes but we don't have time for that whole lecture... Basically, my mirror allows me to see what would be most likely to happen if we make certain decisions."

"And right now it is advising you to go after the Jelly Worm?" Healer Cookie asked. "It... Would seem so, yes," Pomegranate Cookie replied. "Well," Dark Choco Cookie said, turning back to the tunnel the rest of the team had disappeared into. "It seems like the best way to find it is to follow it underground. We'll meet up with the rest of the team and rescue Licorice Cookie!" Healer Cookie smiled and waved his staff, "I can use my Light Magic to illuminate the tunnel!" Pomegranate Cookie nodded in agreement, her mirror's advice becoming more and more reasonable by the second. "Yes, that does seem like the best course of action." Dark Choco Cookie drew his sword, "Then we have no time to lose! Cookies, onward!" And with that, the trio disappeared down into the tunnel.

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Poison Mushroom Cookie marched in front of the small band of unlikely heroes. The air was damp and thick with the overpowering smell of dirt, and incredibly cold. The tunnel was pitch black and every sound they made was magnified by ten. The shifting of dirt and soft sounds of their footfall echoed in their ears like a pounding drum. Despite the tunnel being rather large, it still felt closed in. Every now and again they could feel soft dirt fall on them from the tunnel's roof, reminding them that the underground path was not a sturdy Cookie-built structure, but a giant hole in the ground with nothing to stop the dirt above them from crashing down on top of them. Poison Mushroom Cookie shivered, whether it was from the cold and foreboding atmosphere, or from the thought of what would happen to Licorice Cookie if they didn't find him... He didn't know.

Schwarzwälder kept bumping his head on various roots or low-hanging places in the tunnel and grumbling. "Choco Werehound Brute can't see his own paw in front of his face! How are we going to find that Jelly Worm and Licorice Cookie?" Poison Mushroom Cookie stopped. He could see just fine in the dark. Mushrooms preferred dark and damp environments to grow in anyhow, so his large eyes allowed him to make out details that Schwarzwälder couldn't see. The Licorice minions were creatures of the night as well, so they fared just fine in the dark tunnel. But Schwarzwälder, despite being a Cake with excellent eyesight, his night vision could only go so far. And a pitch-black tunnel was beyond even his scope of sight. Poison Mushroom Cookie hummed in thought for a moment, before he began digging through the pockets of his robes. After a few seconds of mumbling "Oooh... Where did I put...?" to himself, he finally pulled out a handful of small Mushrooms.

These were different from his usual Shroomies. These were light blue, and the stem was a bit thinner and much longer than the purple ones he would usually eat... Or throw at enemies. But the most important difference was that these mushrooms gave off a soft fuzzy glow. Normally the light would be so soft and weak it would have been near impossible to notice. But in complete darkness, even the weakest of lights are strong. "These are my Glow Shroomies!" Poison Mushroom Cookie exclaimed proudly. "Good thinking, Poison Mushroom Cookie!" Schwarzwälder replied with a smile. "Hey bro, where's Licorina?" Liciam said to his brother in Licorice Language, "I haven't seen her in a while." Licastor hummed softly, "Last I saw her she was with..." He stopped in his tracks. "Master... She was with Master Licorice Cookie! She broke her dagger earlier remember?" Liciam's violet eyes grew wide with horror, "She was in Master Licorice Cookie's hood..." Poison Mushroom Cookie and Schwarzwälder didn't understand what they were saying, so they were a little confused when the two suddenly dashed ahead of them. Not knowing the two had just come to the realization that they could lose not only their Master but their sister as well.

"HEY! You guys, we've got to stay together!" Schwarzwälder shouted. Poison Mushroom Cookie ran ahead, tossing the Glow Shroomies in front of him every so often so the path would be illuminated. And if he ran out, he would just reach into his pockets and pull out a few more. Schwarzwälder couldn't help but wonder exactly how deep were his pockets? As Poison Mushroom Cookie seemed to have a neverending supply of Mushrooms on his person at all times. The Werehound nervously watched the sides of the tunnel. The walls of packed earth could burst open at any moment with Jelly Worms. His sensitive ears could hear them burrowing through the ground around them. And he couldn't help but hold his breath whenever he thought he could feel one getting a little too close to the tunnel's edges. There wasn't much room to swing his hammer properly in the closed-in chamber of dirt. And a Jelly Worm breaching the walls would weaken the tunnel's already unstable structure, and cause it to collapse in on them. Luckily those feelings only lasted for a few moments, the tunnel started to get wider. Poison Mushroom Cookie had to throw his Shroomies at the walls as well as the ground to ensure they could see ahead. Schwarzwälder let out a sigh of relief as he readjusted his hammer. The path was now wide enough for him to swing it at his side. This allowed the Werehound to focus on the task at hand—finding the Gaint Jelly Worm and rescuing Licorice Cookie. Soon the two found the Licorice Minions, they had stopped and were looking around in confusion. Schwarzwälder felt the lump of worry reforming in his throat. Poison Mushroom Cookie looked around as well. The air had shifted, it didn't feel as confiding or as still as before.

Poison Mushroom Cookie stepped in front of the Licorice Minions and threw his Glow Shroomies into the air in all directions. They exploded, scattering sparkling blue dust everywhere. The glowing spores now coated the walls of the cave, and a cave it was. The tunnel had let out into a large underground cavern with more tunnel entrances. Dozens of cave openings leading into the darkness of the underground labyrinth. "This must be the entrance to the Jelly Worm nest," Schwarzwälder said softly. "Licorice Cook—!" Poison Mushroom Cookie started to shout before Schwarzwälder clamped his hand down over the tiny Cookie's mouth. Poison Mushroom Cookie's voice echoed back from the tunnels. Schwarzwälder held his breath and slowly let it out as the echo died down. He slowly removed his hand and Poison Mushroom looked at him in confusion. The Werehound raised his finger to his mouth and shushed him, "The Jelly Worms might hear us and attack. This is their turf, we don't stand a chance of fighting them off if they ambush us. Understand?" Schwarzwälder whispered. "But... How are we going to find Licorice Cookie? W... Where did the mean worm take him?" Poison Mushroom Cookie said, looking around at the many tunnels in wide-eyed panic. Schwarzwälder sighed and scanned the cave walls. The Glow spores gave off enough light for them to see just how big the tunnels were. "It's gotta be one of the bigger ones... But which one?" Schwarzwälder growled. They were running out of time, they couldn't afford to choose the wrong tunnel. The only thing stopping that Jelly Worm from eating Licorice Cookie alive was that rock in its mouth, and if they chose the wrong tunnel, they could run right into a hoard of Jelly Worms.

While Schwarzwälder was getting himself frustrated from overthinking, Poison Mushroom Cookie dug into his pockets and pulled out a Shroomy. He nibbed it slowly and closed his eyes. He liked to eat when he was stressed, but the normally soothing flavor of his Mushroom treat couldn't stop the flood of thoughts through his mind. What if we can't find him? What if it's already too late? What if he's already been eaten and I'll never see him again? Tears stung the tiny Cookie's eyes, his hands were shaking, causing spores from his Shroomy to fall off and float around the Mushroom in his hands as a small cloud. "Wait a second..." Poison Mushroom Cookie said softly, as he watched the purple cloud around his hands. "Wait a second!" He dropped the mushroom and ran to the center of the Cave. Schwarzwälder let out a cry of surprise, "Poison Mushroom Cookie!" He whisper shouted, "What are you doing?!" Poison Mushroom Cookie turned to face him, and with the widest smile, threw up his hands and exclaimed, "Happy Mushroom Dance!" before breaking into one of his beatbox and jump around routines. Schwarzwälder and the Licorice Minions were stunned into silence for a few seconds. Had he finally lost it? Did the stress of losing Licorice Cookie cause the little Cookie to snap? He kept bobbing his head and scatting, oblivious to the others' concern about his mental health. "Da boom skee, da boom skee, la la la la la!"

As he danced, spores from his mushroom cap created clouds around him. The spore clouds grew bigger and bigger until finally he stopped, placed his hands together and threw them out to the side, holding them over his head. The spore clouds followed the fungus-flavored Cookie's command and flew into the three largest tunnels. Poison Mushroom Cookie lowered his hands and closed his eyes. Leaving the group in confused silence. Schwarzwälder's only response was a long drawn-out, "Uh..." The Licorice Minions looked at each other and then back at Poison Mushroom Cookie. He had been known for doing strange things at inappropriate moments but this took the cake. "Poison Mushroom Cookie?" Schwarzwälder said. The Cookie responded with a loud, "Suuuush!" and then a softer, "The spores are talking."

What the others didn't know was, as crazy as that sounded, the spores he'd shaken off during the dance really were talking to him. Like a normal mushroom, Poison Mushroom Cookie's spores were an extension of himself. They acted as extra eyes and ears, and their many tiny voices make it hard to think sometimes. It didn't help that his head hurt almost constantly from the fall he had when he was taken out of the oven. The Witch hadn't noticed the small Cookie climb off the Cookie tray and land on his head. The pain faded eventually but the injury went deeper than the surface. He was used to the constant pounding by now, he just lived with it. Couple his chronic headache with the millions of tiny voices of his spores, it was no wonder Poison Mushroom Cookie couldn't keep his thoughts in order long enough to make a proper sentence sometimes. His mind worked much slower than everyone else's and the spores' voices were soft. He needed quiet in order to hear them properly, so he tried to block out Schwarzwälder's and the Licorice Minions' whispering as best he could.

After a few minutes of standing in silence, Schwarzwälder decided enough was enough. "Okay, Poison Mushroom Cookie," he said, walking up to the small Cookie and placing a hand on his shoulder, "We really need to get..." Poison Mushroom Cookie suddenly opened his eyes. "That one leads to a dead end," he said pointing at the large tunnel to his right. "That one is filled with Jelly Worms," he said pointing to another tunnel. "But...." he said, slowly turning around and looking up, "That one!" he shouted, pointing to a large tunnel in the center. "That's where the Jelly Worm took Licorice Cookie!" The other three looked at one another, unsure of how to respond. "How... How do you know that?" Schwarzwälder asked. "The spores told me!" Poison Mushroom Cookie replied with a smile. Schwarzwälder sighed through his nose and crossed his arms over his chest, "Poison Mushroom Cookie, we don't have time for games!" Poison Mushroom Cookie frowned, "I know! That's why we gotta go this way!" he said, pointing at the center tunnel. Then, Schwarzwälder gave him the look. The look all Cookies gave him whenever he tried to explain about his spores, or why he acted the way he did, or why he was so slow. That look you would give to a stupid child who didn't know anything. "You... You don't believe me..." He said, tears forming in his eyes. Schwarzwälder didn't understand what he was trying to tell them, and now he was getting angry like everyone always did. And Poison Mushroom Cookie couldn't explain in a way they could understand. Whenever he tried to explain, everyone would only get more confused and angry at him. "You don't know for certain if that's the way he went..."

"But I do! The Spores..."

"Stop talking nonsense, Poison Mushroom Cookie! Licorice Cookie is in danger and we need to know FOR CERTAIN where he went!"

"You're not listening to me!"

"Because all you ever do is gibber about mushrooms!"

Normally he'd shrug it off and go with whatever the other person decided to do. His ideas or concerns were usually tossed aside by others. But he couldn't afford to do that this time. Normally, it took him a lot of time for his brain to form the right words to explain his feelings. But this time... They spilled out faster than he could think them. "FINE!" Poison Mushroom Cookie sobbed, his hands shaking at his sides, balled into fists. "If you just think I'm stupid then I'll go rescue Licorice Cookie myself!" With that, he turned and ran down the tunnel. "Poison Mushroom Cookie, wait!" Schwarzwälder shouted. He tried to run after him, but a Jelly Worm appeared at his feet. Then another and another. They started popping in from the walls and crawling down. Schwarzwälder was forced to back up and ready his hammer. The Licorice Minions readied their daggers as well. Schwarzwälder barely caught a glimpse of Poison Mushroom Cookie disappearing into the darkness as the sounds of his sobs were replaced by the tunneling and hissing of Jelly Worms.

"POISON MUSHROOM COOKIE!"

The tiny Cookie ran with his head down, he rubbed his eyes with his sleeves again and again but he just couldn't get them dry. The tears kept coming. Why? Why couldn't he understand? He thought Choco Werehound Brute was his friend. He didn't think he saw him the same way everyone else did. But he did. He just thought he was this stupid crazy Cookie whose ideas and thoughts weren't worth a soggy sugar cube. "Stop talking nonsense... All you ever do is gibber about mushrooms!" The hurtful words rang in his head over and over again. Everyone thought he was too stupid to understand when he was being insulted. He knew. He understood. He knew what those looks meant. He knew what they were thinking. And it hurt. Because he wasn't stupid... Just challenged. His mind worked slower than everyone else's because of his constant pain... But that didn't mean it was broken entirely. There were only a few Cookies who never looked at him that way. Only a handful of friends who didn't immediately dismiss his ideas or thoughts as nonsense. Only a few who understood him. And the very first of those friends... Was Licorice Cookie.

He kept crying, not just from hurt but from fear as well. Fear that he would lose Licorice Cookie forever. He had been the little Cookie's very first friend. The Dark Wizard had found him, hiding under the sink in the Witch's kitchen. It was the perfect place to grow his Shroomies. Damp, dark, quiet... Lonely. But then, he met Licorice Cookie. He and Red Velvet had come to the Kitchen to look for food, as it was hard to come by in the basement. When Poison Mushroom Cookie heard he was hungry he naturally offered him one of his Shroomies... And he got sick after he ate it. They always did. But Licorice Cookie did something no one had ever done before. He didn't get angry with him. He didn't yell at him, or call him names... He just turned the Mushroom over in his hands. Examining it, before saying, "Y'know... I might be able to find a spell that can counteract the effects... Or perhaps find an antidote to the poison... If I can do that, we might be able to use these as a food source! We wouldn't have to come up to the kitchen and risk the Witch catching us!"

He liked his Shroomies. He liked him. And then, Licorice Cookie smiled at him. It was the first time anyone had ever smiled at him. When Poison Mushroom Cookie learned he was leaving to return to the basement, Poison Mushroom Cookie clung to his robes. He could only speak a single, desperate plea through his intense sobbing. "Please, don't go.... Please... Don't go..." Licorice Cookie gently placed a hand on Poison Mushroom Cookie's head. He bent down to be at eye level with him, and spoke, softly and slowly so that Poison Mushroom Cookie would have an easier time understanding. "You can come with me y'know." Poison Mushroom Cookie blinked tears out of his large round eyes. "Go... With you?" Licorice Cookie nodded and smiled. "It's safer in the basement than it is in the Kitchen. The Witch only comes down there once a year to dig up Halloween decorations or something like that. And I'm sure my friend, Red Velvet Cookie, would love to meet you."

"F...Friend?" Poison Mushroom Cookie said, tilting his head in curiosity. That was his first time hearing what would soon become his favorite word. "A friend is someone who looks after you and helps you when you're in trouble. Someone you can talk to when you're sad or scared and share your accomplishments with," Licorice Cookie explained. "Are... Shroomy and Licorice Cookie friends?" Licorice Cookie stood up and held out his hand. "We can be if you want to." Poison Mushroom Cookie smiled from ear to ear, and slowly placed his hand inside Licorice Cookie's. He took him back to the Basement with him. There, Poison Mushroom Cookie would tend to his small Shroomy garden and Licorice Cookie would study magic. After a while, his friends developed a tolerance to his Shroomies' toxic effects. Soon they could eat and enjoy them just as Poison Mushroom Cookie did. And Poison Mushroom Cookie loved that he could help his friends. He loved that he found Cookies who liked his Shroomies as much as he did.

He was especially happy he'd met Licorice Cookie. He became the Dark Wizard's second shadow, as Licorice Cookie had jokingly called him one day. He would follow him wherever he went. Poison Mushroom Cookie would cheer him on whenever he had trouble with a new spell or lend an ear whenever Licorice Cookie needed to vent about something or other. And Licorice Cookie would listen to him in turn. Really listen. Not just pretend to and dismiss his words as nonsense. Licorice Cookie would try to find the meaning in his words whenever he didn't understand immediately. When Poison Mushroom Cookie was scared, he would comfort him. When Poison Mushroom Cookie was sad, he would dry his tears. His greatest fear was that one day, Licorice Cookie would grow tired of him. And leave him, just like everyone else did. But the Dark Wizard had assured him time and time again that he would never abandon him.

And now... Licorice Cookie was the one in danger. And there was a chance he may never see him again. "Licorice Cookie..." Poison Mushroom Cookie said in a broken voice. He couldn't lose him, he couldn't imagine living without his friend. No... Licorice Cookie was more than a friend, he was his only family.

"Licorice Cookie..." His heart felt like it would explode from the force of its pounding in his chest. His feet making a soft thump thump thump against the soft floor of the dirt tunnel. "Licorice Cookie..."

He had to save him. He didn't know or care how. He just had to. Because if he failed... He wouldn't be losing a friend.

"Licorice Cookie!"

He'd be losing a brother.

"LICORICE COOKIE!!!"

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It took Red Velvet Cookie a minute to realize he was no longer flying through the air. He was disoriented, his head was spinning, and Chiffon's loud barking wasn't helping matters. He slowly raised his Cake hand to his head and rubbed it. "Uuuugh... What... Happened?" he moaned. His mind slowly began to reconnect with his body. He was laying on the ground with Chiffon next to his head, nudging him again and again and barking loudly in his ear. Red Velvet Cookie winced and tried to place his Cookie hand atop his Cake Hound's head to reassure and silence him. It took him a few tries, as his coordination was still suffering from the effects of being thrown through the air like a rag doll. But he eventually managed to place his Cookie hand between the pupcake's ears and give him a weak pet. "I'm ok, buddy," he said, smiling at the little Cake Hound. Chiffon's facial expression didn't change. His strawberry ears remained flat against the back of his head, and his brown eyes remained transfixed on his Cookie. He placed his tiny paw on Red Velvet Cookie's head and whined softly. "I'm okay," Red Velvet Cookie insisted, a bit concerned by Chiffon's reaction.

He looked up to see trees towering over him. The afternoon sun cast long shadows that danced as the wind caused the trees' branches to shake.

Ssssshhhhhhsssshhhsssshhh. The wind whispered through the trees.

Red Velvet Cookie was vaguely aware of the pain. A soreness that seemed to envelop his entire body. But he had to push through it, he had no idea where he was, but he had to get back to his friends. He had to hunt down that Jelly Worm and rescue Licorice Cookie. The thought was enough to send a rush of energy through his weary dough, and he forced himself to stand despite his exhaustion. But he was sent crashing back down to the ground with a yell of agony as a bolt of searing pain exploded through his leg. It was so intense and sudden that the sensation brought tears to the Cake-Cookie hybrid's eyes. He hissed through his teeth as he tried to focus on his breathing and not the feeling like his leg was on fire. Chiffon ran in front of him and barked relentlessly. Red Velvet Cookie was doubled over and digging his Cake hand into the ground, he slowly raised his head to see what had caused the pain.

His leg lay stretched out in front of him, in a pool of his own jam. His pants had been stained red and he could almost make out small bulges in the fabric. The tell-tale sign of crumbs. I must have landed on my leg wrong and almost crumbled it. Dang it... First I lose my arm and now I nearly lose my leg. Why does the universe have a problem with me having limbs? Red Velvet Cookie let out a cry of pain every time he tried to move. "Ahh! Augh! Fiiiiisss," he hissed as he breathed sharply through his teeth. Chiffon barked again and tugged on the pants of his good leg. The Cake Hound's message was clear, "Don't move, you'll hurt yourself."

"There's no time, Chiffon!" Red Velvet Cookie protested as he was forced back into a sitting position with his jam-covered, half-crumbled leg in front of him. "We've gotta find our way back to our friends! Licorice Cookie is in danger, remember?" Chiffon gave him a look, glanced at his injured leg, then glanced back at him. "Look, we have no idea where in the woods we are and we're sitting ducks for predators just sitting here! We've got to get going!" Red Velvet Cookie looked around the clearing until he saw his sword laying a few feet away from him. Glistening in the afternoon sun. Red Velvet Cookie furred his brow in determination and dug his Cake Hand into the dirt. He slowly pulled himself towards his sword while dragging his injured leg behind him. He did this for half a minute, slowly inching his way toward his sword. Until Chiffon decided there was no point in arguing with the stubborn Cookie and fetched his sword for him. Gripping the hilt in his mouth and dragging it back to him. Red Velvet smiled at the little pupcake. "Atta boy, Chiffon!" He said, patting the Cake Hound's head as he took the sword from him.

He gripped the blade with both hands and planted it into the dirt. Then, slowly, he pulled himself to his feet. He cried out in pain several times and had to stop to catch his breath twice. A fresh wave of tears fell from his eyes and he panted as he tried to focus on not falling over so he wouldn't have to repeat the excruciating process a second time. He licked his lips and gripped his sword tighter as he focused on putting all his weight on the sword and his good leg. He finally became steady on his feet and took a moment to catch his breath. Chiffon whimpered softly at his side. "Yeah, I know, buddy. I know..." Red Velvet said breathlessly. "But... We gotta... Get... Going. Can.... Do you... Smell them nearby?" Chiffon let out a sigh and stuck his nose in the air. After a moment of sniffing, he trotted off in one direction before stopping and turning to look back at Red Velvet Cookie. Red Velvet slowly shifted his weight and swung his sword in front of him, planting it into the dirt again, and using it to support himself as he hobbled after the Cake Hound. Once or twice he would smell the air himself, trying to see if his smell had been heightened to that of a Cake as well. Mostly because he needed something to take his mind off the pain.

His smell did seem to have improved. He couldn't tell if any of the scents belonged specifically to his friends, but he was able to judge distances between different smells. Which is something he was pretty sure he couldn't do before. A patch of wildflowers over that way, the smell of water from the river in the distance, he had to fight the urge to investigate when he picked up a scent of something decaying. Hopefully, it wasn't... No... No, even if it was one of his friends the smell of jam would be stronger, fresher. So he comforted himself with that thought. They were all still alive. At least... He hoped they were.

But then both he and Chiffon seemed to notice a new smell. They both stopped and looked in the same direction. They could have sworn they felt a presence, hiding behind the treeline. Chiffon's ears perked up as he listened for any sort of sound. But the feeling was gone as quickly as it had came. But still... It set the two on edge. Red Velvet couldn't shake the feeling that they were being watched. And soon he was convinced they were being followed. He felt the presence again, this time in the trees. The branches rustled in an unnatural pattern as if they had been disturbed by something other than the wind. But whatever it was it was gone now. Chiffon bared his teeth and growled, warning the mysterious phantom to stay away. Pain and anxiety are never a good combination, so every nerve in Red Velvet's body was on edge. Was there really something there? Or was his mind playing tricks on him? No. Chiffon could sense it as well. Surely they both couldn't be wrong about the strange thing that seemed to disappear like a shadow in the sunlight every time their eyes would get a little too close to seeing it. It was starting to infuriate the Cake-Cookie. He could smell it, he could feel it, but he couldn't see it.

Was it a Jelly Worm? Was it Wizard Cookie and Chili Pepper Cookie lying in wait to ambush him while he was injured? Was it something new and even more dangerous than any foe he'd faced thus far? Red Velvet Cookie paused. Chiffon had noticed him stop and looked back at him inquisitively. Red Velvet Cookie removed one of his hands from his sword and stretched. Bending his back and holding his Cake hand open above his head and slightly off to the side.

It was a signal, a discrete one the two had come up with for times when they needed to communicate without the other party reading their next move. Chiffon knew the open Cake hand was a cue to attack in the direction he was pointing without pointing. Actually pointing would have made it too obvious. Chiffon looked around and found a small stick. He picked it up in his mouth and carried it over to Red Velvet. Wagging his tail and giving his best puppy dog eyes. Red Velvet finished his stretch and chuckled, "No, Chiffon. We don't have time to play right now," he said, just as they'd rehearsed it. Chiffon jumped up and down a few times, yapping out of the corner of his mouth. Red Velvet chuckled softly, "Oh, alright, but just once, ok?" Red Velvet took the stick from his pupcake and turned around. One hand firmly in the grip of his sword, as he leaned on it for support.

"Fetch!" he shouted as he tossed the stick. Chiffon ran after it, but instead of catching it, he dove into the bushes and tackled the Cookie that had been following them. Red Velvet Cookie heard them cry out in surprise and then hit the ground. "Atta boy, Chiffon!" Red Velvet Cookie cheered, making his way over to him as fast as he could considering his injury. He peeked out from behind the tree the Cookie had been using for cover a few seconds ago and saw Chiffon laying on top of them with the Cookie sprawled out on the ground. Chiffon's growling and bared teeth were enough to convince him to stay where he was. The Cookie was wearing a dark blue suit with a hood that hid most of his face. The only visible part was his bright green eyes.

The Cookie and Red Velvet made eye contact. "How?" he asked, his voice was deep and low. "How did you manage to keep track of me?" Red Velvet Cookie waved his Cake arm and smiled, "Nothing gets past Cakes." Chiffon barked in agreement. Red Velvet patted his hip and Chiffon jumped off the Cookie and ran to his side. "A better question is, why were you following us?" The Green-Eyed Cookie got to his feet, "Before I tell you anything... I'd like to know who you're associated with." Red Velvet Cookie raised an eyebrow, "What?" The Cookie was suddenly an inch from his face, holding a small dagger in his hand. "Are you with those Cookies? The ones who brought those monsters to these lands!" Red Velvet Cookie almost fell back, he wished he could swing his sword but he was too busy using it as a walking stick at the moment. He glared at the Cookie as Chiffon bared his teeth. Threatening to give the Cookie an injury identical to Red Velvet's leg if he tried to hurt his friend. But Red Velvet waved his hand to calm the Cake Hound. "Monsters... You mean the Cremlins?" The Cookie nodded. Normally having a blade close to his face would have set Red Velvet on edge. But now that he understood why this Cookie was following him, he had a hard time being angry about it. He probably would have done the same thing.

"You can relax, I'm not with them. My friends and I are trying to track them down. They kidnapped my friend's pet, and their Cremlins have been causing trouble for everybody." The two were locked in the world's most intense staring contest for a few seconds. Silence. Complete silence as he stared into his vibrant green eyes. Finally, the Cookie sighed and lowered his dagger. "You... Are not lying... I can tell." He sighed again. "I apologize... Normally I wouldn't be so hasty to make a decision on whether a Cookie was friend or foe. But those monsters have been roaming the Hills as of late. Trying to ambush me whenever I try to meditate. Normally my heart is calm and my mind is clear... But with my training being constantly interrupted by those creatures...." He sighed and rubbed his head. "I can feel my inner balance becoming cloudly."

"I'm going to pretend like I understood what that meant," Red Velvet Cookie replied, before letting out a sudden cry of pain and collapsing to the ground. The Cookie gasped softly and Chiffon ran up to Red Velvet. His sword slipped from his grasp and Red Velvet Cookie found himself on the ground once more, seething through his teeth and shaking like a leaf. "A-are you alright?!" The Cookie cried. "Yeah... Just... Give me a minute..." Red Velvet Cookie groaned as he forced himself into a sitting position. "I was fighting a Gaint Jelly Worm earlier and I got flung halfway across the forest. AH! Ow! Uh... I must've landed on my leg wrong." The Cookie sat on his knees and examined the Cake-Cookie's injured leg. He hummed softly. "Wait right here," he said, before disappearing again. Red Velvet Cookie realized that the Cookie was insanely fast. He was running, but so quickly it looked almost like teleporting. It was difficult to keep track of him, he could only see the aftermath of where he'd been from the way the trees or bushes rustled. The Cookie returned a moment later with large sticks and several vines and large leaves.

"Peach Cookie taught me how to make stints for crumbled limbs. This should help keep your leg still until it can heal properly." He said, placing the sticks on each side of Red Velvet's injured leg. "Thanks," Red Velvet said weakly, hissing through his teeth as a fresh wave of pain shot up through his leg from the sticks touching it. Chiffon let out a low growl and the Cookie paused for a second, watching the Cake Hound carefully. Red Velvet placed his hand on top of Chiffon's head to soothe him. "It's alright, Chiffon. He's not our enemy." The Cookie looked away for a second. Guilt was written on what little of his face could be seen. "You don't need to thank me... Consider it my way of making it up for almost attacking you earlier."

"No hard feelings," Red Velvet Cookie assured him with a smile. "Hey... You said something about training around here earlier. Are you a warrior?" He remembered Dark Choco Cookie saying something about Dragon's Hill being a popular training ground for young warriors. "Ninja," the Cookie replied. "In training at least. My name's Ninja Cookie." Red Velvet Cookie grimaced as Ninja Cookie pulled at his leg, he took out his dagger and used it to cut his pants leg so he could better assess the injury. He reached into his pockets and took out a small leather flask. "This is a local anesthetic, it should help the pain," Ninja Cookie said, pouring the contents of the flask onto Red Velvet's injury. He hissed in pain as the balm made contact with his exposed dough. It was cold, but oddly soothing once the initial pain wore off. "You must be a warrior though," Ninja Cookie said, "Only someone with intense training could walk with an injury this severe. Your people must be incredible warriors." Red Velvet Cookie cocked his head to the side, "My... People?"

"Others like you," Ninja Cookie replied. "Oh, you mean other Cake-Cookies? Naw, I'm pretty sure I'm the only one like me... And I haven't officially begun my training as a warrior yet." Red Velvet replied. Ninja Cookie raised an eyebrow. " Then... You must have an insanely high pain tolerance." Red Velvet Cookie shrugged. "Once you get your arm bitten off by a Witch, everything else hurts less in comparison," he replied with a half-hearted chuckle. Ninja Cookie paused to look up at him, his eyes widening slightly. "So you were an Ovenbaked Cookie too?" Chiffon began to relax upon realizing that the two had that much in common and that a friendship seemed to be forming between them. He stopped growling and let his tongue rest on the side of his mouth again once he felt the Cookie could be trusted. "Yeah, It was terrifying. She actually got me at one point."

"How did you escape?"

"Chiffon helped me out," Red Velvet replied, patting his Cake Hound on the head. "I'd of been dead if it hadn't been for him." Chiffon barked happily in response. Ninja Cookie nodded in understanding, "I owe my freedom to my mentor, General Jujube Cookie. He rescued me and brought me to his home in the mountains. And took me under his wing as his pupil." Ninja Cookie closed his eyes, a smile visible from underneath his mask, "Ever since that day I have trained tirelessly in the ways of the ninja, working to improve myself each day. To become stronger, faster, better." He opened his eyes and sighed, "But as of late..." Red Velvet Cookie nodded, "The Cremlins have been keeping you from training." Ninja Cookie shrugged, "They're good for target practice at least."

Red Velvet Cookie snickered, then they both started laughing. Red Velvet forgot his pain for a time as the two were lost in the moment. Ninja Cookie also found his mind more at ease once their giggling had died down. "Yeah... The Cremlins aren't even the worst part though. It's the Cookies who control them. Wizard Cookie and Chili Pepper Cookie. Like I said, my friends and I are trying to find them so we can get Licorice Cookie's Bat-Cat back. But, then Licorice got captured by a Gaint Jelly Worm and I... ACK!"

"Sorry," Ninja Cookie mumbled as he finished tying the vines together around Red Velvet's leg. "Naw, it's okay. It doesn't hurt as much as it did before." Ninja Cookie got to his feet, "That should help keep it still until we can get you some proper medical care," he said. "I have two friends who are excellent healers, if we can find them, they should be able to help fix this," Red Velvet replied. Ninja Cookie held out his hand and Red Velvet Cookie took it with his Cake hand. His Cookie hand gripping his sword as Ninja Cookie helped him to his feet. Ninja Cookie gently placed Red Velvet Cookie's Cake arm around his shoulder. "Lean on me, I know a way we can find your friends," he said. Red Velvet Cookie smiled. He held his injured foot above the ground, the stint keeping it still and straight. It was still painful, but the medicine Ninja Cookie had given him had numbed most of it. "Thanks, Ninja Cookie." He could see a smile in his bright green eyes. "Anything to help a brother."

Chapter Text

“So, where are we going?” Red Velvet Cookie asked.

“I know a way we can find your friends, but we need to reach a landmark so they can find us. Do you hear that?”

Red Velvet Cookie closed his eyes and focused on the sounds of the forest. “Wind, trees, running water.” Ninja Cookie nodded, “The river. That will lead us to-” Red Velvet Cookie suddenly let out a cry of pain and lifted his injured leg higher. Ninja Cookie stopped and readjusted his hold on the Cake-Cookie hybrid. “A-are you ok? Do you need to rest a moment?” Red Velvet shook his head. “There’s no time. We have to find my friends. Don’t worry about me, I’ve been through worse,” he replied with a weak smile. His brows furrowed in determination, “We have to keep going.” Ninja Cookie studied him for a moment, before smiling slightly.

He nodded and allowed Red Velvet to readjust his grip on his sword and regain his balance, before they continued down the trail. “Y’know, you’re pretty tough for someone with no training. If you hadn’t already decided to become a warrior, you would have made a pretty good ninja,” Ninja Cookie chuckled. “What’s the difference anyway? Between a ninja and a warrior?” Red Velvet Cookie asked. Ninja Cookie hummed in thought for a moment before replying, “Their style of training, I suppose. Ninjas are peacekeepers, warriors are guardians. Warriors train their bodies more while ninjas train their minds. But both work with their brothers in arms to overcome challenges and are taught to look beyond self. To put aside personal desires for the greater good of all. The Ninjas of the East and the Warriors of the North have been close allies for countless generations, many aspects of ninja training were borrowed from warriors and vice versa.”

“You talk about training a lot? Is it that hard to become a ninja?” Red Velvet asked. “The way of the Ninja is more than just a set of rules or a daily workout. It is a lifestyle. One of self-discovery and strict discipline. Teaching ourselves to grow stronger so we may overcome our inner battles,” Ninja Cookie explained. Red Velvet blinked, “Inner battles?” he asked. “The battle against oneself. The mental and emotional struggle for control we all face daily. You see, Red Velvet Cookie, there are two versions of ourselves living within our minds and hearts. One is selfish, greedy, and impulsive. The other is caring, loving, and loyal. The one you feed is the one that wins.”

“So… What do you ‘feed’ them with?” Red Velvet Cookie asked, raising an eyebrow. “Thoughts… Feelings…The way we choose to handle our emotions determines which one wins control over our actions.” Ninja Cookie replied. He closed his eyes and continued, “Ninjas such as myself are taught to be aware of our feelings at all times and guard our thoughts. It is normal to have bad thoughts and feelings… But it is what we choose to do with them that determines who we are.”

“Hey, my friend, Licorice Cookie does something similar to that! He’s a Dark Wizard, so he’s always going on about, ‘controlling his emotions so they don’t control him’ or something like that,” Red Velvet said. Ninja Cookie nodded in agreement. “As a warrior, I’m sure you’ll learn of your inner battles and how to wage them, Red Velvet Cookie. Let me tell you a story of one of my own experiences. It was after a particularly difficult training session, our task was to run up several flights of stairs while carrying two buckets of water that were tied to both ends of a long stick which we had to carry on our shoulders. Without spilling a single drop of water on the way up or down. It took intense focus and a lot of stamina. My friend, Peach Cookie, needed only a few attempts before she succeeded, while Plum Cookie and I were still struggling. She always made the difficult tasks look so easy. Training came like breathing to her, I think she views it as a game sometimes.”

“Were you jealous of her?” Red Velvet Cookie guessed. Ninja Cookie shook his head, “If anything I admired her. However, she did do something later in the day that upset me.” Red Velvet tilted his head in a way that said “I’m listening.” Ninja Cookie readjusted his hold on Red Velvet’s arm as they walked and continued, “You see, one thing ninjas do to keep themselves motivated during training is to reward themselves with something afterwards. I had a chocolate bar I had been saving for just such an occasion and I knew this particular training session was that occasion. But that afternoon when I went looking for it, I discovered that Peach Cookie had found it and eaten it.”

“Wow, if Licorice Cookie did something like that, I don’t think I would be able to talk to him for a week. You must have been really mad at her.” Red Velvet Cookie said. Ninja Cookie nodded, “I was, I wanted to yell at her but… I knew that losing my temper would also mean losing my inner battle. So I stepped back, took several deep breaths, and looked at the situation with a calm mind. Once I did that, I remembered that I had left it out in the open so I couldn’t really blame Peach Cookie for thinking it was fair game. She didn’t know it belonged to me so she hadn’t stolen from me on purpose. With that in mind I was able to explain that to her without falsely accusing her or saying anything hurtful out of anger.”

“So what did she do after?”

“She apologized, and to make it up to me she took me to her favorite dumpling place. Gotta admit, they were pretty darn good.” Red Velvet Cookie chuckled softly. “So you see,” Ninja Cookie continued, “What could have been a fight became a wonderful experience with a friend. Negative emotions can lead to positive outcomes if used in the right way.” Ninja Cookie paused for a moment, it was clear Red Velvet Cookie was struggling, so he stopped to let him catch his breath as they spoke. “Tell me, has there ever been a time where your negative emotions seemed to take control of your body? Where you acted without thought and paid the price for it?” Red Velvet thought for a moment. Something very recent came to mind. The Cake-Cookie hybrid frowned and looked to his side. “Yeah… Actually… There is something. You remember those Cookies I told you about? The ones who brought the Cremlins to Dragon’s Hill?”

Ninja Cookie nodded. “Well,” Red Velvet continued, “Earlier they had captured most of my Cake friends in the Land of Little Big Dreams. They trapped them in cages and left them to die. When my friends and I found the place they were storing the cages… I… Felt this overwhelming sense of… Rage.” He locked eyes with Ninja Cookie, a nod from the green eyed Cookie encouraged him to continue. “I was just so angry at what they had done to my friends,” even now his voice had a growl of frustration as he spoke, “And I didn’t want any more Cakes to be hurt because of them so… I started smashing the cages.” Ninja Cookie nodded, “An understandable reaction.” Red Velvet Cookie frowned, “Yeah, but… I ended up tripping an alarm and leading the Cremlins right to us… My friends got hurt because of that. Because of… Me.” Red Velvet Cookie said, lowering his head. Ninja Cookie was quiet for a moment, before placing his free hand on Red Velvet’s chin and lifting his head to make eye contact.

“Did you learn from that?”

Red Velvet Cookie blinked, “Well…”

“You can’t change what happened, but if you learn from it you can prevent a similar situation from happening in the future. Next time you can win your inner battle, control your anger, so it does not control you.” Red Velvet Cookie cocked his head to the side and hummed thoughtfully, “Yeah, now that you mention it. I think Dark Choco Cookie was trying to tell me something similar earlier.”

“That’s why… Wait… Did you say Dark Choco Cookie?” Ninja Cookie asked. Red Velvet nodded. “As in the Dark Choco Cookie, Warrior Prince of the Dark Cacao Kingdom?!” Ninja Cookie exclaimed with the most emotion Red Velvet had seen him use since they met. He couldn’t help but chuckle slightly at his reaction. “Yeah, we met him while we were tracking down Chili Pepper and Wizard Cookie. We’re gonna help him find his dad, and he’s gonna train me to be a warrior!” Ninja Cookie blinked, “You’re being trained by Dark Choco Cookie?!” Red Velvet Cookie’s chuckle turned into a giggle. “Ok, ok, ok,” Ninja Cookie said, waving his hand, “My brain needs a minute to wrap itself around that information.” Red Velvet’s giggle turned into a laugh. Chiffon barked and hopped up and down, before running forwards. “Hahaha, h-hey, Chiffon! Wait for us!” Red Velvet called. He took a breath to steady himself before leaning on Ninja Cookie as they continued onward. “We’re nearly there. I can smell the river now,” Red Velvet said. Ninja Cookie nodded.

It wasn’t long before the trees thinned out, giving way to an open clearing with a dirt path leading up to the crystal blue stream of water. But there was something else there. Something massive and white. Red Velvet Cookie almost drew his sword at the sight of the giant teeth, when he realized they belonged to a skeleton. “Woah!” the Cake-Cookie hybrid breathed. “Is that?” Despite only seeing them in storybooks, he recognized the head shape of the skeleton as a Dragon. “The Dragon of Dragon’s Hill. What’s left of it anyway,” Ninja Cookie replied. The bones were covered in moss in several places, a miniature waterfall flowed from the eye sockets of the once grand beast. It was much bigger than Red Velvet Cookie had expected. You could fit four or five Cookie houses in the mouth. A chill ran down his spine at the thought of what this creature must have been like when it was alive. How terrifying it would have been to be face to face with such a creature. (Well, ok, Red Velvet had experiences with the Witch before. But at least she didn’t breathe fire!)

“And... The Ancient Heroes actually fought this thing?!” Red Velvet Cookie exclaimed in disbelief. “That’s how the legend goes,” Ninja Cookie said, slowly lowering Red Velvet to the ground. He grunted in pain as he placed his leg in front of him. Chiffon bounced into his lap and wagged his tail. Red Velvet smiled at the little pupcake and started petting him. Ninja Cookie then turned to the Dragon’s head, he leapt onto a rock, then into a tree, into a taller tree, and finally with a flip landed atop the monster’s head. “Woah,” Red Velvet Cookie said, “That was awesome! You’ve gotta teach me how to do that!” Ninja Cookie chuckled and sat down, crossed legged on a path of moss. “You will learn in due time, young Grasshopper.” Ninja Cookie reached into his pockets and pulled out something long with a red ribbon tied at the end. “What are you doing?” Red Velvet asked. “Calling them,” Ninja responded, placing his mouth to the thing, and blowing a few notes.

Oh, it must be a flute, Red Velvet realized. Chiffon wagged his tail in time to the tune, and began to bounce ever so slightly. Red Velvet chuckled slightly. Cakes love music. It reminded him of when he met Clover Cookie, how Chiffon and the other creatures of the forest were enchanted by the bard's music. Suddenly, three small Jelly Worms popped out of the ground in front of the Dragon’s head skeleton. Red Velvet Cookie let out a cry of alarm and grabbed his sword, “Ahh! Jelly Worms! Ninja Cookie!” The ninja in training leapt down from the Dragon’s head and landed with his legs outstretched and his hand to the ground. He looked unharmed, which was pretty impressive as that was a long distance to fall. “Hold on, hold on,” he said, standing up and holding his hands out in front of him. “Don’t worry. The Jelly Worms of Dragon’s Hill aren’t wild.”

“Excuse me?” Red Velvet Cookie replied, practically glaring at Ninja Cookie. “They’re tame. They like the music. Watch,” Ninja Cookie said, playing an upbeat tune on his flute. The Jelly Worms began to sway in response. They popped out of the ground completely and began to dance in time to the music. Red Velvet Cookie could hardly believe his eyes. The Jelly Worms were… Tame? “But they attacked us earlier! And this giant one tried to eat Licorice Cookie!” Ninja Cookie paused and placed his hand to his chin. “That does seem out of character for her.” Ninja Cookie looked at Red Velvet. “But I don’t think they were attacking. Even tame Jelly Worms can be mischievous, sure, but the ones in Dragon Hill have lived alongside Cookies for generations. Some have even learned our language. They were probably just playing some pranks that got out of hand.”

“But what about Licorice Cookie?” Red Velvet shot back. Ninja Cookie hummed, “Now that I don’t have an explanation for. But I’m sure there is one. The Mother Worm is usually protective of her colony, maybe she saw you as a threat to her babies.” Red Velvet’s expression softened a bit. Thinking back, he could see how the Jelly Worms could have been… Playing rather than attacking. Judging by the way they were laughing. And they did get a little rough with the little Worms after. “Yeah, maybe,” Red Velvet sighed, “I hope you’re right, Ninja Cookie. For Licorice Cookie’s sake.” Ninja Cookie nodded and bent down to speak to the Jelly Worms. Resting on hand on his knee he said, “Red Velvet Cookie is looking for his friends, he’s hurt and can’t travel very far. Can you find them and bring them here?” The Jelly Worms looked at one another, and hummed softly. They didn’t seem too interested in helping.

“There’s some Jellyberry Yogurt Bars in it for each of you if you do,” Ninja Cookie said in a sing-songy voice. The Jelly Worms’ eyes widened and they all nodded rapidly, before tunneling back into the ground and disappearing. “If music doesn’t work, food often will,” Ninja Cookie replied with a smile. Red Velvet Cookie chuckled softly, “They’re almost like little kids.” Chiffon barked and nuzzled Red Velvet’s stomach. “So what do we do now?” Red Velvet asked as Ninja Cookie sat down next to him and pulled out his flute. “We wait,” he replied, starting to play a soothing melody. Red Velvet closed his eyes and let the music ease his mind. The sounds of the wind and river coupled with the song made the world feel at peace for the first time in forever.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Schwarzwälder and the Licorice Minions raised their weapons shakily. There were too many of them. The Jelly Worms’ teeth and spikes glistened in the light of the Glow Shroomy’s spores. Schwarzwälder tried smashing some, but they would just tunnel into the ground and reappear, just like they did before. Liciam and Licastor weren’t sure their daggers would work against such a large number of foes. They hissed as they grew closer and closer. Schwarzwälder felt his throat getting tighter as they were backed against the wall. If only Poison Mushroom Cookie was still here. His Shroomies could have blasted them away and they could have made a run for it while the Jelly Worms were still recovering from the effects of the toxins. He looked up at the tunnel the small Cookie had disappeared into. Why was he so adamant about taking that one? Did he have some kind of ability to sense where Licorice Cookie was? He’d known the Dark Wizard much longer than he had, maybe…. Oh, dang it, why hadn’t he listened?

The Jelly Worms were almost on top of them now, one lunged and Schwarzwälder swung his hammer. It managed to slow them down a little but it wouldn’t stop them completely. Is this it? Was this the end? Were they going to die underground at the teeth of a hundred tiny creatures? Not the way he imagined a warrior like himself going out. But that wasn’t the thought that brought tears to his eyes, he was thinking of Licorice Cookie and how he’d let him down. Both he and his Cookie were going to share the same fate, eaten by Jelly Worms. Schwarzwälder thought back to the day Licorice Cookie and Poison Mushroom had arrived at the Old Village. The Cake Wolves leading them into town. Licorice Cookie’s face was haggard with dark circles under his eyes. Bat-Cat flew by his side. He was carrying a sobbing Poison Mushroom Cookie in his arms, while the small Cookie cried on his shoulder. They had heard Red Velvet’s scream from outside the Witch’s house. They thought he was dead.

Countless Cookies had crossed through the Village on their way to the safety of Earthbread. Countless Cakes had chosen those Cookies as their own. They left the village with them to start a lifelong friendship. Cakes were taught from childhood that because they were stronger and faster than Cookies, it was their duty to protect them. It was a rite of passage. Schwarzwälder was one of the village’s best warriors, so he needed a Cookie who was just as special as he was. None had ever clicked with him when they entered the village. But Licorice Cookie. There was something special about him. He didn’t know the exact moment when he knew Licorice was his Cookie. He just knew. Maybe it was when he learned his story about being a self-taught Wizard. Or when he saw Licorice refuse food until Poison Mushroom Cookie and Bat-Cat had eaten. Maybe it was when he saw how he held it together until he could steal away and find time to himself to cry and mourn his friend’s death.

Licorice Cookie was emotional, but he only cried in front of his friends. Around strangers, he would steal away to the safety of the shadows and let the darkness envelope him as he felt his grief. Schwarzwälder had promised to protect him, and all who he saw as his friends. Licorice Cookie was grateful for the Werehound’s companionship as they journeyed to their new home. And Schwarzwälder finally felt complete. He remembered asking Licorice how he kept going despite all the horrible things that had happened. “Never give up. That’s winning half the fight. If you give up, you’re dead. That’s the first thing you learn when you break out of the Oven. Half of my batch just gave up before they even tried. I didn’t want to end up like them.” Licorice Cookie had looked the Werehound in the eye, “No matter how hard things get, no matter how impossible it may seem. There’s always a way. You just have to keep looking for it.”

The pain in his eyes and the strength in his voice. It was inspiring. That was the day Schwarzwälder vowed that Licorice Cookie would never lose another friend that way.

And he wasn’t about to break that promise.

He blinked the tears out of his eyes, and snorted. Slamming his foot to the ground and lowering his head, baring his teeth and growling, letting his Cake instincts take over. If he was gonna die, he was gonna die fighting, he owed his Cookie that much. The Jelly Worms paused, the sudden shift in the Cake’s demeanor caught them off guard. If he had to rip and tear his way through every last one of them to get to Licorice Cookie then that’s what he was gonna do. His newfound resolve encouraged the Licorice Minions as well. Steadying themselves and readying their daggers. But before Schwarzwälder could charge forward, he heard a shout.

“Schwarzwälder!”

He turned to see Pomegranate, Healer Cookie, and Dark Choco running down the tunnel. Their faces illuminated by the lights of their respective weapons. The scarlet glow of Dark Choco Cookie’s sword created a frightening ambiance. Even at a distance, the power of his weapon was made clear. The Werehound smiled and stepped aside to give the trio room to enter the cave. Once the Jelly Worms saw the light of the Strawberry Jam Sword, they shrunk back and began to retreat slightly. Schwarzwälder smiled as Dark Choco Cookie stood next to him, “Looks like we may not have to fight our way through after all,” Schwarzwälder said, smiling at the young prince who returned the smile with one of his own. “Not fight…” Healer Cookie whispered. “Wait… Dark Choco Cookie! Put away your weapon,” Healer Cookie exclaimed, running to the young prince’s side. “What?” Everyone else said in unison. “You’re scaring them,” Healer Cookie replied. “Uh… Well, duh! That’s kinda the point!” Schwarzwälder shouted.

“Just trust me, I have an idea,” Healer Cookie said, standing in front of Dark Choco Cookie and holding up his staff. Dark Choco Cookie looked at his friends. Pomegranate Cookie shrugged, Schwarzwälder shook his head. But despite the protests, Dark Choco Cookie slowly lowered his sword, he kept his hand on the hilt, however, just in case Healer Cookie’s plan didn’t work. Whatever his plan was. The Jelly Worms started growling again. Healer Cookie’s staff began to glow in a soft light.

“Take us back to the start, calm the tempest in your heart. Two fates become one together, form a bond that can’t be severed.”

As Healer Cookie recited the spell, he waved his staff. Ribbons of light flew from it, forming spinning circles of light above the heads of each Jelly Worm, like halos. The light was soft, not blinding. Warm and welcoming, the Jelly Worms each looked at the halos as they lowered past their head and wrapped around their bodies. They seemed to absorb the light, and they were instantly overcome with a sensation of peace. All eyes locked on Healer Cookie as he lowered himself to his knees and stuck out his hand. The Jelly Worm that was closest to him slowly approached his outstretched hand, and gently brushed it with his forehead. It made a small sound, a sound of contentment and trust. A few more Jelly Worms slowly approached him and did the same.

Schwarzwälder, Pomegranate, and Dark Choco watched in wide-eyed amazement. “Healer Cookie… Did you… Tame them?” Pomegranate Cookie breathed. Healer Cookie nodded and smiled, “It’s a spell my old friend taught me. It conveys feelings of friendship to other creatures. But it only works if the castor’s feelings are genuine.” One of the Jelly Worms began to lick Healer Cookie’s hand. He turned back to the Cookies, “Do any of you have any food on you by chance?” Dark Choco Cookie blinked, “Well, uh… I think I still have some Bear Jellies left over,” he said, digging into his pockets. “Ah, here,” he said, handing one of the Jellies to Healer Cookie. The blind healer offered the Jelly to the tiny Worm, she began to make happy squeaking noises as she nibbled on the treat.

Pomegranate Cookie smiled, “Y’know… They’re actually kinda cute when they’re not trying to attack us,” she chuckled. Dark Choco Cookie smiled, “How did you know they could be tamed?” Healer Cookie patted one of the Jelly Worms, “Many creatures can, taming just means to establish a connection with a creature. Very few creatures ever act purely out of malice or spite. Isn’t that right little friend?" The Jelly Worm looked at him and tilted her head.

“Cookies… Friends….”

Everyone gasped. “It spoke!” Dark Choco Cookie cried. “THEY CAN TALK!?!” Schwarzwälder shouted. “It would seem so,” Healer Cookie chuckled. Pomegranate Cookie beant down and picked up one of the Jelly Worms, she noticed it had a small bruise on it’s side so she waved her rod over it and cast a healing spell. The Jelly Worm gasped softly as the pink light of her spell faded. She smiled at the tiny creature. “There you go little guy.” The little Worm twisted a few times, it rubbed the spot where the bruise had been seconds ago with his nose. “Pain gone!” He cried. “Pain gone?” A Jelly Worm in the crowd echoed. “Cookie make pain gone?” Another voice echoed. “Cookie make pain gone! Cookies friends! Cookies help Mama!”

The Jelly Worms all broke into a cheer of broken Cookieish, mostly repeating those same words over and over. “Mama?” Pomegranate Cookie questioned as she placed the healed Jelly Worm back on the ground. “Mean Cookies hurt Mama. Nice Cookies help Mama. Make Mama pain gone!” The Jelly Worm replied. “You don’t suppose they mean that Worm that took Licorice Cookie, do you?” Dark Choco Cookie asked. “Perhaps,” Healer Cookie said. “Maybe if we help her she’ll be willing to return Licorice Cookie.” Schwarzwälder and the Licorice Minions weren’t too happy about that plan. He still wanted to smash most of those little jerks into next week for messing with his Cookie. “You can’t be serious,” he growled. “Come now, Schwarzwälder-”

“CHOCO WEREHOUND BRUTE!” Schwarzwälder corrected, cutting Healer Cookie off. “Choco Werehound Brute,” Healer Cookie said, “If we’re going to be their friends, we should help them. That’s what friends do. If there’s a solution that doesn’t involve fighting, that’s the one we should take.” Schwarzwälder crossed his arms over his chest. “I prefer fighting,” he huffed. “Now, Schwarzwälder-” Dark Choco Cookie began. The Brute let out a growl and looked at him sideways. The prince sighed and corrected himself. “Choco Werehound Brute… Part of being a warrior is knowing when to fight and when not to fight. Sometimes being a warrior means being a peacekeeper. And if we can make friends rather than enemies out of the Jelly Worms, wouldn’t that be better for all of us?” Schwarzwälder groaned loudly. “FINE! If it gets Licorice Cookie back I guess it doesn’t matter. I’d still rather smash ‘em though,” he mumbled under his breath. “This way! Cookies follow!” A Jelly Worm said, heading into the largest center tunnel. The others moved over to make a path for them. Dark Choco Cookie led the way, illuminating the tunnel with the light of his sword. “How do we know this isn’t a trap?” Schwarzwälder whispered to Pomegranate Cookie. “I suppose we’ll just have to have faith in our new friends,” she replied softly. Schwarzwälder rolled his eyes and huffed.

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The Giant Jelly Worm broke the earth as she resurfaced. The rock still halfway lodged in her mouth, she bit down as hard as her jaw would allow, finally shattering it. She gagged, and coughed, spitting out several large chunks of stone, dust, and a traumatized Cookie.

Licorice Cookie landed with a thud. He groaned loudly and winched in disgust. He was covered in slimy, light-green saliva that was dripping from every part of his body and causing his robes to cling to his dough in a very uncomfortable way. He wanted to scream but he didn’t dare open his mouth for fear the slime would enter it. Perhaps that was best, the monster was still towering over him and growling softly. She hadn’t seemed to notice him. He shakily got to his feet and tried to sneak away, freezing every time the Worm moved a little too quickly for comfort. Licorice Cookie felt something touching his neck and nearly screamed, when he heard a soft squeaking, and he remembered.

“Licorina, hey. A-are you ok?” he whispered to his frightened minion. The Licorice Creature nodded and shivered. She was covered in the warm, moist, slime as well. The sudden and drastic change in temperature from the warm mouth of the Jelly Worm to the cold air caused her to shake uncontrollably. “Hey, hey, shussssh, it’s ok,” he whispered softly, picking her up and cradling her against his chest. “Let’s get out of here before that thing sees us.” The Worm was slowly pulling herself out of the ground, shaking her head and growling softly. Licorice Cookie had almost made it to the safety of the treeline when he heard a sound that made him stop. A yell. A long loud shout with a very familiar voice.

“Poison Mushroom Cookie?!?” Licorice Cookie exclaimed, turning to see the little Cookie clinging to the Giant Jelly Worm’s tail as it was lifted out of the ground. “Let. Licorice Cookie go, you. Big. Bully!” The Jelly Worm glared at the Cookie on its tail, the way a Cookie would wince at the sight of a piece of gum on their shoe. She huffed and flicked her tail, sending Poison Mushroom Cookie flying into the trees. Several cries of pain were heard as he fell from branch to branch and eventually to the ground. “Ow! Ow! Ow! Ouch! Oomph! Owie…”

“Poison Mushroom Cookie!” Licorice Cookie shouted. The concern for his own safely completely forgotten. Poison Mushroom Cookie lifted his head, his eyes widened and a grin spread across his face as he saw Licorice Cookie running towards him. “LICORICE COOKIE!” He shouted, dashing over to him and embracing him. “You’re alright! Ew… And sticky…”

Licorice Cookie gave him a slight smack on the head.

The two froze and slowly turned as they heard the Giant Jelly Worm’s soft growl. She was looking right at them, baring her teeth, saliva dripping from her massive maw and pooling beneath her. Licorice Cookie froze, but Poison Mushroom Cookie was too angry to be scared. He stepped in front of the Dark Wizard and dug into his pockets. “HEY! Jelly Worm, if you’re hungry, then eat this!” he shouted, throwing one of his explosive Shroomies with all his might. The Jelly Worm roared, and the Shroomy landed right inside its mouth. It exploded. The Jelly Worm reared back as the purple cloud surrounded her head. She swayed slightly, blinked and slowly lowered her head to the ground. Trails of purple smoke still curling out of her mouth. The two Cookies stood there for a moment, breathing heavily. After a minute that felt like a century, the two relaxed as they realized the Worm didn’t intend on raising its head again.

“Poison Mushroom Cookie…” Licorice breathed. “You did it. You did it! WOO-HOO!” Licorice Cookie shouted, picking him up and spinning him around several times before losing his balance and crashing to the ground, both Cookies laughing wildly. Poison Mushroom Cookie hugged him tight, Licorice Cookie returned the hug. “Thanks for coming after me, Little Buddy.” Poison Mushroom Cookie smiled at the Dark Wizard. Licorice Cookie looked up, gasped, and summoned his scythe. He stepped in front of Poison Mushroom Cookie and held up his weapon. The small Cookie clung to Licorice Cookies robes as he realized several small Jelly Worms were climbing out of the hole the Giant Jelly Worm had left. None of them had noticed the two Cookies yet, but Licorice Cookie was going to have a spell ready if they did. But then, someone else appeared from the hole, someone the two Cookies recognized.

Poison Mushroom Cookie gasped, “Pomegranate Cookie! Dark Choco Cookie!” He ran to them and wrapped Pomegranate Cookie in a hug. Licorice Cookie ran up to the group as Schwarzwälder exited the tunnel, blinking in the sun. The Werehound almost burst into tears, seeing Licorice Cookie alive and well. He embraced his Cookie in a bear hug, until Licorice Cookie had to shout that he couldn’t breathe and to put him down. Licorina squeaked in joy as she reunited with her brothers, the trio sharing a hug and the two checking their sister over for any sign of injury. Healer Cookie was the last to exit the tunnel, a Jelly Worm resting on his shoulder. Licorice almost blasted it away with his magic before Pomegranate made him put his scythe down.

“Licorice, don’t! It’s ok. The Jelly Worms are our friends now,” she said. “What?” Was Licorice’s only response. “Mama!” The Jelly Worm on Healer Cookie’s shoulder shouted. Jumping down and wiggling her way over to her mother. “Mama?” Licorice Cookie said in disbelief. “Yes, the Jelly Worms told us that their mother was injured, so we agreed to help them,” Healer Cookie explained. “Injured? Well, she certainly doesn’t act like it!” Licorice Cookie exclaimed, shaking the last remnants of Jelly Worm saliva out of his hair. “She.. seems pretty calm now,” Pomegranate Cookie said, watching the Mother Worm smile at her babies as they surrounded her. “I gave it a Shroomy,” Poison Mushroom Cookie said proudly.

The Jelly Worm growled softly as Healer Cookie approached it. Healer Cookie held out his hand, “There now, don’t be alarmed, dear friend. We’re here to help,” he said softly, “Please, tell me, what’s troubling you?” The smaller Worms squeaked softly, telling their mother in their language that it was ok and to trust him. The Mother Worm studied the small Cookie carefully, before opening her mouth. “Don’t look, Poison Mushroom Cookie!” Licorice Cookie said. Poison Mushroom buried his face in Licorice Cookie’s robes and whimpered softly. “Hmmm,” Healer Cookie said softly. “Pomegranate Cookie, do you mind helping me? I need an extra set of eyes… Ones that could see preferably. Hahaha”

“Oh, um… Ok,” the former priestess said, reluctantly joining him. “Do you see anything awry?” he asked. “Um… Wait… There is something,” she said leaning in closer to the Jelly Worm’s giant mouth. “There!” she exclaimed, pointing with her rod. “One of the teeth looks like it’s been broken.” One of the Jelly Worms wiggled up to the Cookies. “Mean Cookies bring sticky monsters to home. Sticky monsters hurt Jelly Worms. Mama protect us. Eat sticky monsters. Mean Cookies didn’t like that. So mean Cookie with funny hat blast Mama with magic stick!” She explained. “Sticky monsters?” Pomegranate Cookie said. “Cremlins… She means Cremlins!”

“I see,” Dark Choco Cookie said, joining the two in front of the Mother Worm. “When Chili Pepper and Wizard Cookie brought Cremlins to Dragon’s Hill, they started attacking the Jelly Worms.”

“And the Mother Worm must have been trying to protect her babies,” Healer Cookie added.

“The Cookie with the hat and stick must be Wizard Cookie. He must have attacked her with his magic and broken her tooth for destroying their Cremlins!” Pomegranate Cookie exclaimed.

“This explains everything!” Healer Cookie exclaimed. “Uh… No it doesn’t. What does that explain? How does that explain anything!?” Licorice Cookie shouted. “It explains why she’s been acting so erratically. Remember earlier? She wasn’t attacking us, she was biting into things to try to knock her broken tooth loose.” Poison Mushroom Cookie stood in front of Licorice Cookie and placed his hands on his hips, “Then why did she try to eat Licorice Cookie?!” Licorice Cookie crossed his arms over his chest, “Yeah!”

“I don’t think she meant any harm. You just happened to be on top of the rock when she bit down on it,” Healer Cookie reasoned. Licorice Cookie raised his hand and opened his mouth to protest. Then closed his mouth and lowered his hand again with a huff. “So this is what my mirror was trying to tell us! For me and Healer Cookie to help Mother Worm,” Pomegranate Cookie said. “But if she was in pain before, she doesn’t seem to be now,” Dark Choco Cookie said, watching the Mother Worm as she smiled at her tiny children. “Mmmmm, wait, Poison Mushroom Cookie, you said you gave her one of your Shroomies, right?” Healer Cookie asked. Poison Mushroom nodded. “Uh-huh.” Pomegranate Cookie ran her hand across one of the Mother Worm’s teeth, “You can still see some of the spores,” she said, lifting her hand to reveal a coat of purple dust. “It must be acting as a painkiller, that’s why she calmed down,” Healer Cookie said.

“But the effects won’t last forever,” Licorice Cookie warned. “Once they wear off she’ll probably be in pain again.” The Mother Worm made a sound that was surprisingly pitiful for a creature her size. “Then we have to remove that bad tooth,” Healer Cookie said, “Poison Mushroom Cookie, do you have any more Shroomies?” Poison Mushroom Cookie’s arms were suddenly full of a pile of his signature mushrooms. “I have lots of Shroomies!” he cheered. “Good, we’ll need as many as we can get. We’ll make a painkiller paste with them and then extract the broken tooth.” Healer Cookie and Pomegranate Cookie got to work on crushing the Shroomies into a paste. Some of the Jelly Worms even helped by bringing honey or Jelly Berries to add to the medicine, or small rocks to help crush the Shroomies. Dark Choco and several other Jelly Worms watched the Mother Worm to warn them if the effects of the first Shroomy seemed to be wearing off. Licorice Cookie, understandably, kept his distance as they worked.

Soon enough the two healers had enough of the homemade remedy to coat the area around the Mother Worm’s broken tooth. “Ok, we should have the area good and numb now. On the count of three, we both use our magic to pull it free. Ready?” Healer Cookie said, turning to Pomegranate. She nodded and held up her rod. “OK, one…” light began to dance around the staff and rod, “Two…” Licorice Cookie held his breath, “Three!” the light became blinding for a moment as a pop was heard. Healer Cookie fell back from the force of the spell freeing the tooth. And the damaged tooth fell to the ground. The Jelly Worms gathered around their mother. “Mama pain gone?” One asked. The Mother Worm smiled at her child and nuzzled him gently. “Mama pain gone! Mama all better!”

The Jelly Worms broke into a chorus of cheers. “Aww,” Pomegranate Cookie said, watching the tiny creatures celebrate. Even Licorice Cookie found himself smiling, they actually were kinda cute. “There you go,” Healer Cookie said softly, petting the Mother Worm and smiling. “All’s well that ends well I guess, right, Licorice?” Pomegranate Cookie said. Licorice Cookie didn’t respond. He was levitating the broken Jelly Worm tooth in front of his face and examining it. “Mmmm… I guess, one good thing did come out of this,” he said with a smile. The others watched as Licorice Cookie cut the tooth in two with his scythe, he then shaped it and sharpened it with his magic, until finally it had taken the shape of a small dagger, which he then handed to an overjoyed Licorina. “There you go, kiddo. See, I promised you we’d find you a new one,” he said, giving his minion a pat on the head. Licorina and her brothers admired her new weapon, comparing its sharpness and color to the old one.

“So… No hard feelings… I guess,” Licorice said to the Mother Worm, who nuzzled him softly in return. Licorice visibly shuddered, “OK! OK! We’re not there yet!” he shouted. The other Cookies laughed, and the Dark Wizard snorted. “Oh, come on! Let’s see you almost get eaten and be able to be buddy-buddy with the thing that almost ate you! Being almost eaten, accidentally or otherwise, is not fun! You get me, right Red Velvet Cookie?” Licorice Cookie realized he didn’t get an answer and looked around in confusion. “Red Velvet Cookie? H-hey! Where’s Red Velvet Cookie!?”

“He was trying to rescue you and he ended up getting flung off into the forest. We have no idea where he went,” Pomegranate Cookie explained. Suddenly, a Jelly Worm popped out of the ground near Licorice Cookie. Starling the Dark Wizard and causing him to jump slightly. “Cookie with Cake arm and Cake Hound?” The Jelly Worm asked. The other Cookies gasped softly. “Yes, exactly. That’s Red Velvet Cookie and Chiffon! Do you know where they are?” Pomegranate Cookie asked. “By the river, near Dragon head,” another Jelly Worm said, appearing from the ground. A third popped up and said, “Follow us!” The trio then started down the path, the Cookies wasted no time in following them. They waved goodbye to the Mother Worm and her children as they waved their tails in farewell. Licorina proudly swinging her new dagger and Poison Mushroom Cookie holding onto Licorice Cookie’s hand as they continued down the path.

The journey was a bit slower than before, as above ground the Jelly Worms couldn’t move as fast as they could below, but it didn’t take long before the group could hear the sound of running water and also, music. “Is that… Flute music?” Licorice Cookie asked. “Sounds like a traditional Eastern melody,” Dark Choco Cookie said. Schwarzwälder stuck his nose in the air and took a deep breath. “I smell him! Red Velvet Cookie! He’s this way!” The Werehound shouted, charging down the path, and almost trampling the Jelly Worms in the process. “AH! Hey! Careful!” They shouted. “Sorry about him. He… Forgets to think when he’s excited,” Licorice Cookie said, picking up the Jelly Worms and carrying them the rest of the way. It wasn’t long before the river came into sight. As did a Cookie sitting by the river, a Cake-Cookie hybrid setting next to him, and the Cake Hound in his lap.

“There he is! Red Velvet Cookie!” Licorice Cookie shouted, breaking into a sprint. Red Velvet looked up and grinned from ear to ear at the sight of his friends. “Licorice Cookie! You’re alright!” He tried to stand up but his leg injury sent him back to the ground again, Ninja Cookie held onto his arm to support him. Poison Mushroom Cookie almost dive-bombed the Cake-Cookie in excitement. Chiffon ran up to the group wagging his tail rapidly and yapping happily. Pomegranate Cookie gave the pupcake a few pets and Dark Choco Cookie came over to inspect Red Velvet’s injury.

“I think I landed on my leg weird. But it's ok, my new friend, Ninja Cookie helped me out!” Red Velvet said, nodding to the green-eyed Cookie. “It’s an honor to meet you, your highness,” Ninja Cookie said, standing on one leg, placing his hands together, and bowing slightly. “Please, just Dark Choco Cookie is fine. I can see you made a very fine splint here, you must be well along in your training for your medical expertise to be this advanced.” Ninja Cookie lowered his head humbly, feeling warm from the praise. “I… Still have much to learn. And I owe the knowledge I do have to my mentor and friends.” Dark Choco Cookie unwrapped the makeshift bandages and hummed softly. “Yes… This does look pretty bad. Healer Cookie, Pomegranate, think you can fix this?”

“Of course they can!” Red Velvet Cookie exclaimed, “They’re the best healers in all of Earthbread!” Dark Choco stepped aside to give the two room to work. “And hey, Dark Choco Cookie! Remember that shuriken we found earlier? It was Ninja Cookie’s, he’s been clearing the Cremlins out of Dragon’s Hill! That’s why we haven't seen any,” Red Velvet Cookie said. Ninja Cookie threw and caught his throwing star. “Feels good to have this back,” he said, his eyes betraying his smile underneath his mask. “We have the Jelly Worms to thank for that too. Turns out the reason that big one was rampaging was because she had a bad tooth. But Pomegranate and Healer fixed that, I even got to keep it to make a new dagger for Licorina,” Licorice Cookie said, smiling at his Minion as she waved her new weapon around. “We think Wizard Cookie might have been the one who attacked her and broke her tooth in the first place.” Red Velvet Cookie scoffed, “Yeah, that sounds about right. Those two are always causing trouble wherever they go.”
“Cookie with hat and stick? And Red Cookie? We see them! That way! They been waiting,” one of the Jelly Worms said in a low voice. “Waiting? Waiting for what?” Licorice Cookie asked. “Don’t know. They just stand there. Scary like,” the Jelly Worm replied. Licorice Cookie looked down the path and furrowed his brow. “Those Cookies still have Bat-Cat…” The light of the healing spells faded and Red Velvet Cookie stood up. Now that his leg was as good as new you could hardly tell it was ever injured. Save for the ripped and jam-stained pants of course. He grabbed his sword and spun it around before planting it in the ground. “Then we have no time to lose. Come on guys! Let’s go get our friend back!”

“Yeah!” Poison Mushroom Cookie cheered. “Can we count on your magic to aid us during the fight, Healer Cookie?” Dark Choco Cookie asked. “I shall do my best!” Healer Cookie replied with a smile. “I’d like to offer my assistance as well. Warriors and Ninjas are brothers in arms after all,” Ninja Cookie said, standing next to Red Velvet Cookie. The two fist-bumped. Chiffon barked in agreement. Licorice Cookie stood at the front of the pack, clutching his scythe. A smile of resolve spread over his face, “Then let’s do this! As Dark Choco Cookie would say… Cookies, onward!”

And with that the group raced down the path, the setting sun at their backs. Licorice Cookie had only one thought on his mind.

Hang on tight, Bat-Cat. We’re on our way!

Chapter Text

Licorice Cookie carved a mark into the rotting wood of the bookshelf with his magic. If he got lost, his mark would lead him back the way he came. He found he was out of books with any new information to feed his mind with, so he finally gathered the courage to look for new ones in a part of the Basement that had gone unexplored to either him or Red Velvet Cookie. Red wasn’t interested in searching for anything that didn’t count as food at the moment. He was too busy digging through the drawers of an old dusty desk in search of something edible, so that left the Dark Wizard on his own to search for new books. He took a deep breath to steady his nerves, the unknown sections of the Basement were always frightening to step into. But the thought of finding a new journal or tome filled with new knowledge gave him enough incentive to soldier on. He held his scythe close to his chest, magic at the ready if a rat or something like that tried to attack him.

His heart almost leapt out of his chest when he heard a sound he didn’t recognize. He swung his scythe about in a manner that he hoped looked threatening to scare off any potential predators. The sound came again, high-pitched and shrill. After listening to it for a moment, he concluded that the cry was not one of danger, but one of distress. Whatever it was, it sounded scared. He lowered his scythe a bit, but quickly raised it again and shrouded himself in shadows. Blending into the darkness around him as an added layer of protection. You could never be too careful when exploring new territory. With his magic cloaking him, he carefully went in search of the owner of the voice.

It was an odd noise, not a squeak of a rat and not a yell belonging to a Cookie. But it was clearly a cry for help. It was easy to follow, as it was loud and relentless in its call. Licorice Cookie finally found the owner of the cries after peeking out from behind a jar of green liquid. He found it curled into a ball and shaking like a leaf. It was a curious little thing. Much smaller than a Cookie. White fur and large ears, a tiny tail wrapped around his back paws, and purple wings resting on his back. It was laying, all by itself in what looked like a nest of sorts. Shredded newspaper and bits of string bunched together to create what would have been a bed, had it not been falling apart. Licorice Cookie made sure to keep close to the shadows as he approached the tiny creature. The nest was much too large to belong to one creature, the Mother might still be nearby. But if she was, why would she leave her baby out in the open with no cover like this? He was clearly cold. And the open space made the infant a perfect target for predators. He examined the nest, it was cold and falling apart in several places. Some of the scraps of paper had mold on them. If the Mother had left the baby, it was been quite some time ago. A whole day if not longer.

He looked at the helpless creature, shivering, and crying out for his mother. Could the Mother have gotten trapped somewhere? Licorice Cookie wondered. Surely this poor little soul hadn’t been left behind on purpose. He was still reluctant to get too close, but… He couldn’t just leave the poor thing. He carefully stepped into the nest, looking this way and that for any sign of danger as he bent down in front of the tiny creature. He slowly wrapped his hands around its tiny body, and gently lifted him up. He was ice cold and so thin. He clearly hadn’t eaten in a few days. His eyes were shut and his ears were pressed flat against his head. Licorice Cookie softly shushed the mewing baby. “Don’t be afraid, I’m not going to hurt you,” the Dark Wizard said, cradling the baby close to his chest. He began to settle down. He buried his face into Licorice Cookie’s robes and wrapped his tiny wings around himself best he could. His tiny, pink paws curled into his chest. Licorice Cookie couldn’t help but chuckle softly. He had to admit it was pretty cute.

There weren't a lot of creatures that lived in the Witch’s Basement that were smaller than a Cookie. Licorice Cookie rubbed his chin in thought. “I wonder what you are? Hmmm… I know I’ve seen these features somewhere…” He said, gently running his hand over his soft velvety ears and leathery wings. “Oh, I know! I bet I can find your species in my copy of Curious Creatures and How to Find Them,” he said to the little infant in his arms. The baby yawned, revealing a mouth full of tiny needle-like teeth. “I’ll just take you back with me… You must be hungry… Maybe I can find you some food once I figure out what you eat. As long as it's not Cookies, hehehe,” he joked to the tiny ball of fur, which had fallen asleep in his arms.

Licorice Cookie followed his symbols back to the corner that he and Red Velvet called home. He was looking through his book of different creatures and their habitats when Red Velvet returned from his expedition. “Hey, Licorice Cookie! Check out this cool shiny bendy thing I found!” Licorice Cookie looked up from the book for a second. “That’s a paper clip, Red Velvet Cookie,” he said unimpressed. “Can you eat it?” Red Velvet asked, pulling at the metal object that was a third his size. “No, you can’t,” Licorice Cookie replied, turning back to the book and using his magic to turn the page. “Aw…” Red Velvet said disappointedly. He turned the paper clip over a few times before setting it down on the ground. “Oh well, I’m sure we can find some use for it.” He walked over to the Dark Wizard and sat down, cross-legged on the floor next to him. “Did you have any luck finding any new books? Learn any cool new spells yet!?” Licorice Cookie shook his head. “No, but I did find something though,” he said, turning slightly so Red Velvet could see the sleeping ball of fluff in his arms.

Red Velvet tilted his head in curiosity. “Can we eat it?” Licorice Cookie huffed and turned around with his free hand on his hip, “No! It’s a living thing, Red Velvet Cookie! What are you, a Witch?” Red Velvet just rolled his eyes and smiled. “So, what is it exactly?”

“That’s what I’m trying to figure out… Wait… Ah! Here it is,” He said, holding the tiny creature up to the picture in the book. A perfect match. “According to this… He’s a Bat-Cat.” Red Velvet stood up and looked over the Dark Wizard’s shoulder at the picture. “A Bat-Cat?”

“The flight of a bat with the body of a cat. Nocturnal predators… Night Vision and supersonic hearing… Diet includes fish, fruit, and Jellies…” Licorice Cookie mumbled as he skimmed the page for any useful information. He paused when he got to the part about how the children were raised. He had to read the page over a few times to make sure he had read it right. “A Mother Bat-Cat can have up to 8 Pup-Kittens in a litter. It’s not uncommon for the family to refuse to raise sick or small ones, and to leave their nest with the stronger children, so as not to waste resources on the weaker offspring,” he read aloud. He looked down at the Pup-Kitten in his arms, he had his wing in his mouth and was chewing on it ever so slightly in his sleep.

He’d been the runt of his litter, and his family had abandoned him to make room for his older siblings, who were much more likely to survive. “So…You were thrown away too, huh little guy?” Licorice Cookie whispered to the tiny ball of fur in his arms. “What do you mean, thrown away too?” Red Velvet Cookie asked. Licorice Cookie choked on his spit as he realized his mistake of saying that out loud in front of his friend. He stumbled over his words as he said, “Uh… Uh… Wha… Nothing! Nothing, forget I said anything!” Red Velvet just shrugged in response.

He’d never told anyone… It was a secret he’d take to his grave. But the reason he’d been the sole surviving member of his batch wasn’t because of bravery like Red Velvet or luck like Poison Mushroom Cookie. It was because the Witch had thrown him away. She'd sneered in disgust at the sight of his flavor. Disgusting, she had called him, and tossed him into the trash bin. He should have felt grateful for being spared. But he didn’t. He only felt… Unwanted. Disgusting. Gross. A freak. The only reason he chose to climb out of the trash can was because of a promise. One of his brothers, Red Licorice Cookie, had sacrificed himself so Licorice could escape the oven. “Live for me. Promise you’ll never give up no matter how hard it gets. If you never give up, you’ve already won half the fight." So he chose to live. He dug his way out of the trash and found his way down into the Basement. Where he discovered the dust-covered books on magic. Once he discovered that he could use magic himself, there was no turning back. It came to him as easy as breathing, his mind felt at peace as he bent shadows to his will. A feat few others could do. He discovered all sorts of useful things his magic could do. He could make himself and other Cookies turn invisible so they could hide from the Witch. He could make things float to remove once-immovable obstacles from their paths. He could cast lightning spells to fight back rats for space the Cookies could call their own. So there was something he could do. Something that gave him worth. And when he met Red Velvet Cookie, he learned what it was like to have a friend. He valued Licorice Cookie’s talents and knowledge, but also, his friendship. Red Velvet and Poison Mushroom valued him just for being himself. Magic or not, flawed or not. They saw worth in him he couldn’t see in himself.

But despite having fairly strong magic, and being an admittedly successful Wizard. Licorice Cookie always had this odd feeling of… Inadequacy. This feeling in the back of his mind like he wasn’t good enough. Unwanted. Unworthy. He’d never told his friends how deep those thoughts of his went. Those feelings had been baked into him from the day he opened his eyes in the blaze of the oven. It was because of his flavor. But that didn’t matter anymore. He had something greater than himself to look after now. Another small soul that was unwanted. The infant Bat-Cat let out the tiniest “Mew” Licorice Cookie had ever heard. His heart melted as the blind and deaf baby snuggled against his chest. The soft fabric of his robes was the first warmth he’d felt since his Mother left him to die. Bat-Cat deserved at least a chance. And he definitely deserved to know what it felt like to be valued. To be loved. “I know how that feels. Don’t worry,” the Dark Wizard whispered, using his magic to create a heat bubble around the mewing infant. “I’ll take care of you. I promise.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The twilight sun shone its dying light across the land. Licorice Cookie supposed that was a good thing. Dark Magic was at its strongest during the late hours when the shadows grew long in the fading light. But there was still just enough daylight left to see the path ahead clearly. He could hear his heart pounding in his ears. He was breathing heavily and in a weird gaspy way, he’d done more running today than he’d ever done in his entire life. He would have been exhausted, if not for the thought of finally rescuing Bat-Cat in his mind. The Dark Wizard felt a surge of energy, not just from his magic growing in power as the seconds ticked by. But also from hearing his friends’ footfall around him, pounding in sync with his own. He smiled at Red Velvet as the Cake-Cookie hybrid’s stride increased to march next to him. Red Velvet nodded. Words weren’t needed, they were both thinking the same thing. He wasn’t going to fail this time. He knew what to expect from those Cookies, his friends and minions had his back. Licorice Cookie reached into his pockets and pulled out a single dark blue Jelly. His very last Mana Jelly. If he ran out of Mana during the fight, that was it. No second chances. It was do or die.

Licorice Cookie popped the Jelly into his mouth and clutched his scythe to his chest as he chewed. The effects of his replenished Mana were felt almost as soon as he’d swallowed. Any sliver of self-doubt disappeared as he felt another wave of strength rush into his dough. There was no time for second-guessing himself. No time to wonder if he had what it took. He had a promise to keep.

As they passed beneath the fallen Dragon’s ribcage, Licorice Cookie could see a couple of figures, standing at the edge of the clearing. The sight of those Cookies made his jam boil, he gritted his teeth and clutched his scythe tighter. He slid to a stop as they entered the clearing. Red Velvet and Dark Choco readied their swords. Healer Cookie shuddered slightly, as a cold voice rang in his ears.

“Well, well, well… It would seem you’ve finally arrived.”

Licorice Cookie took a step forward. Wizard Cookie and Chili Pepper stood on either side of Bat-Cat’s cage. A cursed bandage was over his mouth and he was looking through the bars of the cage with wide frightened eyes. Licorice Cookie locked eyes with his pet for just a moment and gave him a small smile. A nod of reassurance that everything was going to be ok. He then returned his focus to the two Cookies. “I’m going to give you two one last chance,” Licorice Cookie said taking another step closer. He held out his scythe. “Return Bat-Cat to me, or suffer the consequences!” Dark Magic sparked around his scythe. His Minions ran in front and brandished their daggers. Schwarzwälder raised his hammer. Wizard Cookie snorted, “Sorry… Could you repeat that? It’s just… Your voice is just so annoying it’s hard to keep up with what you’re saying.” Licorice Cookie started grinding his teeth in frustration.

Don’t get upset. Don’t react. They’re just trying to get a rise out of you.

It was Red Velvet’s turn to step forward. “We’ve beaten you guys once before. And we’ve proven we can take down your Cremlins no problem! Which, in case you haven’t noticed, you don’t have any more of thanks to Ninja Cookie. We’ve got you way outnumbered! The best thing you two can do now is surrender and give us our friend back!” Chili Pepper and Wizard Cookie started chuckling. That wasn’t a good sign. Their chuckles soon became booming laughs as they threw their heads back and let out a villainous cackle. “Ohhoho, how quickly we forget,” Wizard Cookie chuckled, “As a Wizard yourself, Old Rags, you should know that we always have another trick up our sleeve.”

“We may not have Cremlins, but we do have something new!” Chili Pepper cheered. “Are you ready for your big debut, Tiny?” A small voice on the ground growled softly, “Still not my name…” That’s when Licorice Cookie noticed the Jelly Worm standing between the two of them. What were they up to? “A Jelly Worm? That’s your big plan?” Red Velvet Cookie said in disbelief. “Pl—ease… We’ve been up against hundreds of these guys.” Wizard Cookie laughed again, “He won’t be just a Jelly Worm for much longer!” Wizard Cookie shot a bolt of blue and yellow lighting toward the little Jelly Worm. The Jelly Worm threw his head back and started shaking and convulsing as the magic coursed through his body. He let out a scream of pain as wave after wave of raw burning energy was forced into his tiny body. Licorice Cookie and his friends could only watch in horror as the tiny Worm thrashed about and shrieked. Chiffon’s ears lay flat against his head, the pupcake whimpered. Dark Choco Cookie covered Pomegranate Cookie’s eyes. Poison Mushroom Cookie almost started crying. Ninja Cookie’s eyes went wide as saucers. Red Velvet Cookie fought the urge to throw up.

As for the Jelly Worm. He was begging for death in his mind. He felt as if his insides were exploding but the agony continued still. “Now… Transform!” Wizard Cookie commanded. With tears streaming down his face, the tiny Jelly Worm disappeared into the ground. The earth around him burnt to a blackened crisp, and sparks of lightning still lingered in the air around him. A second later, the ground began to shake. Cracks began to appear. Chili Pepper and Wizard Cookie stepped back with cruel smiles on their faces. The Cookies held up their weapons in preparation for battle, but they never could have prepared themselves for what emerged from the ground. The earth split open like a lid off a can as a monster rose from the forest floor. Similar to a Jelly Worm, its size could rival the Mother Worm of the Dragon’s Hill colony. A coat of thick, golden hard candy covered its back and head, and a pair of large golden wings spread out to either side of the creature. Five sharp horns sat atop its head in a cross pattern, and similar spikes ran down its back. It opened its red eyes and slowly grinned, revealing rows of giant knife-like teeth. It was breathing heavily from the intense transformation. But the pain was gone now. He felt only… Power. “Oh… My… Goodness,” Ninja Cookie breathed. The monster let out a roar, a deep and rumbling sound that shook the trees. The Cookies who weren’t stunned into silence screamed.

Licorice Cookie had to fight the urge to pass out. The jam rushed to his head as the creature’s roar shook the air around him. “Behold!” Wizard Cookie shouted, “Tremble, Cookies, at the might… Of the Jelly Wyrm Dragon!” The “Dragon” flapped its massive wings and laughed a deep booming laugh. “FINALLY!” the monster roared “ALL CREATURES OF THE HILLS LAUGHED AT ME FOR MY SIZE! NOW, I AM A DRAGON! I AM THE GREAT DRAGON OF DRAGON’S HILL! KINGDOMS WILL CRUMBLE BEFORE ME! SMALL CREATURES WILL BOW BEFORE MY MIGHT! And you… YOU! COOKIES! WILL BECOME MY FIRST MEAL AS THE JELLY WYRM DRAGON!”

Licorice Cookie almost dropped his scythe, it was shaking violently in his hands. He thought he was prepared to face these Cookies again. But he didn’t think they’d pull a stunt like recruiting a Dragon of all things. Even Schwarzwälder was faltering, backing up and whimpering softly. “What do we do now!?” Red Velvet Cookie cried. “Ok, ok, nobody panic! Technically… It’s not even a real Dragon!” Dark Choco Cookie shouted. “How. DARE! YOU!?” The Dragon pulled his head back and took a deep breath. Dark Choco Cookie’s eye widened. “LOOK OUT!” He shouted, grabbing Pomegranate and Healer Cookie and diving out of the way. The other Cookies followed suit as the Dragon spat a fireball toward them. Red Velvet Cookie barely evaded being burnt alive, he dropped to the ground, rolled, tried to get back to his feet, and ignore the pain in his shoulder from coming down on it wrong. “We shoulda known they were gonna pull something like this!” He shouted angrily, partly to himself and partly to his friends. The bushes behind them were smoldering, and the fire was beginning to spread.

The Jelly Wyrm Dragon let out a booming laugh and flapped its wings. The force of the gale from the Dragon’s wings was so strong, Pomegranate Cookie had to hide behind Dark Choco Cookie to keep from being blown away. And even he had to plant his sword into the ground to keep from moving. Ninja Cookie slid back from the force of the wind and shielded his eyes with his hand as the Dragon’s wing beats kicked up dust and small rocks. Chiffon was almost blown away, the tiny pupcake let out a yelp of surprise as the wind lifted him off the ground and into the air. Red Velvet Cookie managed to catch him before he hit the ground. He furrowed his brow and snarled at the monster. Planting his foot into the dirt he curled his Cake Hand into a claw and threw his head back in a howl before running towards the monster. “AAAArrrrrooooooOO!” Ninja Cookie smiled and disappeared from view. “Red Velvet Cookie! Don’t!” Dark Choco Cookie shouted, reaching his hand out. The Jelly Wyrm Dragon chuckled as the watched the puny Cookie run towards him. He blasted another fireball toward him, but Red Velvet jumped out of the way. The Dragon wasn’t expecting something so small to be so fast. He looked up to see Red Velvet and Ninja Cookie just above him, both holding onto their weapons.

The Dragon’s eyes widened and he shielded himself with his wing. Squeezing his eyes shut and braced for the pain their weapons would cause. Red Velvet swung his sword and Ninja Cookie tossed his shurikens with a “Hiyaa!” But Red Velvet’s blade didn’t even scratch the monster, and Ninja Cookie’s shurikens bounced off the creature’s golden armor harmlessly. Red Velvet was thrown back from the recoil and landed on his stomach hard. Ninja Cookie landed, placing his hand to the ground and looking up in disbelief as the Dragon removed his wing from his face, slowly realizing he felt no pain from their attacks. His toothy smile slowly returned and he let out a low growl. Red Velvet Cookie froze in horror as his eyes locked with the Jelly Wyrm’s. The Dragon lunged, and the Cake-Cookie hybrid would have been devoured right then and there, had Ninja Cookie not grabbed onto him and carried him to safety.

Wizard and Chili Pepper Cookie laughed triumphantly.

Dark Choco Cookie helped Red Velvet regain his balance and Chiffon let out a worried bark. “I’m ok,” he said softly. “Together!” Dark Choco Cookie said firmly, “We have to do this together! It’s the only way!” The other Cookies readied their weapons as Healer Cookie and Pomegranate Cookie used their magic to put up shields. “On the count of three… We rush it, ok?” Dark Choco Cookie said, his sword glowing with a Crimson light. The other Cookies nodded. “Ok, one…” Licorice Cookie gathered a Shadowbolt spell around his scythe. “Two…” the Jelly Wyrm lowered his head and growled softly, never losing his wide toothy smile. “THREE!”

The Cookies all charged forward with a battle cry. Dark Choco Cookie swung his sword, Poison Mushroom threw his Shroomies, and Red Velvet and Ninja Cookie leapt for another attack. But several of the Cookies were intercepted by a lightning attack from Wizard Cookie. Schwarzwälder had to jump in front of Pomegranate Cookie to keep Chili Pepper from stealing her mirror again, earning him a sharp stab from one of her daggers in the process. And the few attacks that did hit didn’t even faze the monster. Wizard Cookie knocked them all back again with a powerful lightning spell. Scattering the small band of desserts around the clearing. “Meowster!” Bat-Cat shrieked, tears forming at the corners of his eyes, he'd finally managed to cut the bandage off his mouth with his claws. The only reason the group hadn’t crumbled has because of the shields Healer and Pomegranate had put up, but they had taken too much punishment and fizzled out. The Cookies lay strewn about, moaning in pain and laying in awkward positions. Ninja Cookie groaned as he tried to get to his feet after falling out of a tree.

“That thing's armor is too strong! Our weapons can’t make a dent in it!” He shouted. “My magic’s not working either!” Licorice Cookie cried. “What do we do?!” Poison Mushroom Cookie shouted. “You give up! There’s nothing you can do! You could have been smart and just stayed out of our way, but because you had to go and meddle in our business you have to pay the price! But don’t worry…” Wizard Cookie said as he pulled out a glowing bandage from his pockets. “You’ll still get a taste of our Master’s blessing. After all, we’ll all be on the same side once we’re through with you. HAhahaaha!” Red Velvet Cookie groaned as he got to his feet. He held his injured Cookie arm with his Cake hand as he slowly staggered in front of his friends. “I… I won’t let you turn me, or my friends, into a bunch of puppets for your evil schemes! I’m gonna keep fighting!”

The Jelly Wyrm Dragon laughed, “Silly Cookie…. Silly, tiny, PUNY COOKIE! You really think a small little thing like you, can defeat A GREAT AND POWERFUL DRAGON LIKE ME!?!” Red Velvet Cookie held his head higher and looked the Dragon straight in the eye. The Jelly Wyrm lost his smile. “As long as I have my friends it doesn’t matter how big our enemy is! We may be just a bunch of tiny Cookies, but when we work together, we can do anything! We’ve escaped a Witch!” Licorice Cookie and Poison Mushroom Cookie smiled at one another and stood up. “We’ve fought armies of Cremlins!” Pomegranate and Dark Choco Cookie nodded and held up their weapons again. “And we’re going a save our friend, so stand in our way all you want!” Red Velvet Cookie shouted, planting his foot in the dirt and pointing his Cake Claw at the Dragon, “But we’re getting Bat-Cat back if we have to rip you to pieces to do it!” Chiffon barked in agreement.

Bat-Cat watched Red Velvet’s speech from inside his cage. Tears of gratitude fell down his face. He watched as Licorice Cookie gathered his magic once again. Not even the slightest trace of fear was written on his face. He stood tall, next to his friends, his minions surrounding him. “Meowster….” Was he really willing to fight a Dragon to get him back? He loved him that much. Even after Bat-Cat failed to be there for him in the Kingdom that morning. He’d traveled this far and faced so many dangers, just to bring him home. The Winged feline choked back a sob and placed his paws at the edge of the cage, pulling himself up as best he could in the small space.

“YEAH! NOBODY MESSES WITH CHOCO WEREHOUND BRUTE’S FRIENDS!” Schwarzwälder cheered, swinging his hammer over his shoulder. “Warrior or Wizard, Cake or Cookie, it doesn’t matter. We all have one goal!” Dark Choco Cookie added. Pomegranate Cookie held up her mirror, “To live together in peace and happiness! And, we’ll fight any foe to make sure our friends can be there with us!” Poison Mushroom Cookie put his hands on his hips. “Yeah! And besides, you’re not even a real Dragon! You’re just a little Jelly Wormy playing pretend!” He said with a huff. Licorice Cookie had to fight back laughter, “Oooooh! Poison Mushroom Cookie! That was an excellent comeback! I think I’m starting to rub off on you,” the Dark Wizard said with a smile. “Heeheeheehee,” Poison Mushroom Cookie giggled.

The Dragon lowered his head and growled softly, that growl became a snarl, and that snarl became a roar. “FOOLS! FOOLISH PUNY DESSERTS! I! AM! THE GREAT DRAGON! AND YOU WILL FEAR ME!!!” The enraged beast let loose a blazing inferno of fire breath. The force of the blast was so strong that Wizard Cookie had to hold onto his hat to keep it from blowing off. Chili Pepper shielded her eyes from the intense light. Bat-Cat banged against the side of the cage as he saw the raging fire hit his friends. “MEOWSTER! NO!!!” The heat was so intense it caused the two Cookies to sweat. Once the fire died down the Dragon panted to catch his breath. Chili Pepper slowly lowered her eyes… “Well,” she coughed from the smoke the fire had produced, “They’re bound to be…. *cough* *cough* History by now.”

“Wait….” Wizard Cookie said, squinting his eyes. The smoke began to clear. Silhouettes of Cookies slowly became visible. Dark Choco Cookie standing in front of Pomegranate, Licorice Cookie hugging his minions, and Poison Mushroom Cookie tight, Red Velvet with his eyes shut tight and holding his Cake hand up to his face. But they were all still standing and unharmed. At the very front, holding his glowing staff high, was Healer Cookie. A powerful light shone from his staff, casting shields over all the Cookies and Cakes. “WHAT!?!” The Jelly Wyrm Dragon roared. Red Velvet Cookie slowly opened his eyes, “Healer Cookie! You saved us, again!” Healer Cookie turned back and smiled, He lowered his staff and the shields disappeared. Wizard and Chili Pepper were speechless. “Wha…. B-but how? How can he make a shield strong enough to stop a Dragon’s fire!?!” Wizard Cookie screamed. “Your Mana cap must be insanely high, Healer Cookie,” Licorice Cookie said. “I remembered something,” Healer Cookie whispered to Red Velvet, “A Dragon’s weak spot is its underbelly, there’s no armor to protect it. You’ll have to distract it and get it to expose its stomach and then… Attack!” Red Velvet Cookie blinked. “How do you know that?”

The Jelly Wyrm Dragon threw its head back and sent several flame breaths into the air, as if trying to burn the sky itself. “HOW?!? HOW!?!” He turned to Wizard Cookie and bared his teeth, “You! You said you could make me powerful enough to be a fearsome Dragon! Why can’t I crumble a few powerless Cookies?!?!” Wizard Cookie snorted, “It’s not my fault you’re incompetent!” The Dragon bit down into the air around Wizard Cookie and the short magic user jumped back slightly with a cry of fear. “HOW DARE YOU SPEAK TO THE GREAT DRAGON THAT WAY! YOU ARE BUT A MERE COOKIE! A TINY INSIGNIFICANT SNACK! You should respect me! You should fear me!” Wizard Cookie held up his Candy Wand and glared at the Dragon, “Don’t forget… Tiny… We gave you that power…. I can just as easily take it away,” he said coldly. The Dragon backed up a bit. “Would you rather go back to being a pathetic little Jelly Worm? Or do you want to keep trying my patience?” He asked, magic flickering around his wand. The “Dragon” whimpered softly and covered his face with his wings. Tears loomed at the corners of his eyes. “That’s what I thought! Humph!” Wizard Cookie said, slamming his staff to the ground and sticking his nose up in the air.

As for Red Velvet and Co., they were taking the opportunity to come up with a battle plan while the Cookies of Night were busy arguing with their newest recruit. “The underbelly?” Pomegranate Cookie asked. “That doesn’t sound too hard,” Licorice Cookie remarked, “The hard part is going to be getting close enough to strike. We’ve still got Wizard Cookie and Chili Pepper to deal with,” he said, looking over his shoulder at the two Cookies as they mocked the Jelly Wyrm for being unable to handle a few small Cookies. “Shroomy will take care of Chili Pepper!” Poison Mushroom Cookie said. “How?” Red Velvet asked. “Shroomy has an idea!” Poison Mushroom replied proudly. “Does it involve Mushrooms?” Schwarzwälder said, rolling his eyes. “Yes!” Poison Mushroom Cookie replied. “Oh, come on! We’re not seriously gonna…!”

“Schwarzwälder…” Licorice Cookie said softly, placing a hand on the Werehound’s side and smiling at Poison Mushroom Cookie. “I trust him.” Poison Mushroom Cookie had to fight back tears. “I have an idea for how we can deal with the other one, but I’ll need someone to distract him,” Ninja Cookie said. “Leave that to me!” Licorice Cookie said, “Between me, the triplets, and Schwarzwälder, he’ll be plenty distracted. Besides…. What me and that Cookie have is personal,” Licorice Cookie said through gritted teeth. Ninja Cookie nodded. “Then, Red Velvet, Dark Choco, Pomegranate and I will handle the Dragon. Pomegranate and I will provide shields with our magic while you two attack!” Healer Cookie said. “Arf! Arf!”

“Don’t forget Chiffon!” Red Velvet Cookie chuckled. “Can I count on you to watch my back, Little Buddy?” Chiffon wagged his tail and barked. “Alright then, let’s do this! Hey! Wizard Cookie! Chili Pepper Cookie!” The duo paused to look over at the group. Red Velvet took a couple of steps forward with his sword swinging at his side. “If you guys are ready for round 3, then we’re ready to beat your tails!” Chiffon barked and growled. Wizard Cookie snorted. “Still in the mood for games are we? Fine if that’s what you really want then… Abra-Cookie-Cadabra! Smokescreen Spell!”

And with that, the battlefield was blanketed in a thick layer of dark gray fog. Schwarzwälder led his group using his super smell. Picking up on Wizard Cookie’s scent and leading Licorice Cookie and the Licorice Minions towards him. Licorice Cookie felt a change in the air and yelled for Schwarzwälder to get down. The Werehound ducked and Licorice Cookie sent a Sadowbolt into the fog. It collided with one of Wizard Cookie’s Lightening Strikes, causing the two magic beams to explode. The force of the blast cleared up the smoke enough to allow the group to see several feet in front of them, they could make out Wizard Cookie’s scowling expression in the haze. He raised his staff again and summoned another lightning attack, Licorice Cookie rushed forward and blocked it with his scythe. He skidded back a few feet and had to grit his teeth to keep from crying out in pain. Some of the Lightning hit his arms, and now they were starting to feel numb. His grip on his scythe was getting wobbly and he was fighting back tears. “Ninja Cookie… Whatever you do… You’ve gotta do it quickly!” Licorice Cookie whispered into the fog.

The Ninja’s voice echoed back from somewhere in the mist. “Keep him still.” Licorice Cookie nodded and rushed the Wizard, yelling loudly and swinging his scythe. Wizard Cookie countered by blocking his attack with his staff. The two were now staring into one another's eyes, glowering. “You never learn, do you?” Wizard Cookie said, slipping his staff out of from beneath Licorice’s scythe and side-stepping so Licorice Cookie would fall onto his face from the pressure being released. He let out a cry of pain and rolled onto his side to see Wizard Cookie standing over him with a Cursed Bandage glowing in his hands. “You’ve been a real pain in the you-know-what lately you know… But maybe I can have you make up for it by making you my personal slave after all this is through….” He chuckled cruelly. Licorice Cookie smirked, “I don’t think my servants would agree with that. GET HIM!” The Licorice Triplets dived onto Wizard Cookie, causing him to lose his balance and drop the bandage. They clung tightly to his robes and refused to let go, one even started pulling his hair. “AHH! Not again! OW! No! Get off! GET OFF!”

Licorice grabbed his scythe and held it out, a soft wind picked up as he recited the spell.

“Heart of ichor, heartless claws…”

“Ow! No! Get off!”

“Screams of silence, silence calls…”

Wizard Cookie finally managed to throw the Licorice Minions off him.

“Be cast into nothingness and fall…”

Wizard Cookie readied a spell but had to stop to dive out of the way of Schwarzwälder’s hammer.

“Fall into the abyss’ maw!” Licorice Cookie shouted, pointing his scythe at Wizard Cookie. A portal opened up underneath him. Wizard Cookie cried out as his foot plunged into an inky blackness. He held his Wand high over his head and used his magic to levitate out of the muck. Licorice Cookie finally lost all feeling in his arms and collapsed to the ground. The spell fizzled out and the ground below Wizard Cookie became solid again. But before he could plant his feet back down, something flew by him. Another something few by, something metal, hitting his staff and causing his grip on the levitation spell to weaken. Then… Something sharp hit his hand, causing him to cry out in surprise and pain and drop his staff. He fell to the ground, it wasn’t a very long fall, but it still left him feeling a little sore. He tried to reach for his Wand but before he could grab it, another throwing star appeared between his hand and his Wand. Ninja Cookie appeared from the shadows and grabbed the Wand before Wizard Cookie could react. Wizard Cookie growled and stood up, “Give me that back!” He dived, reaching out for his wand. But Ninja Cookie disappeared again, reappeared behind Wizard Cookie, and kept disappearing and reappearing. Before he could process what happened, Wizard Cookie found himself tied up with a robe Ninja Cookie had tied with an expertly created knot. He yelled in annoyance for the two Cookies to release him, with a lot of insults and threats sprinkled in between his demands. Ninja Cookie helped Licorice Cookie to his feet and the two fist-bumped. “Booyah!” Licorice cheered.

Chili Pepper Cookie snuck through the fog, keeping an eye out for enemies while flashing her dagger. Her footfall was silent, as the thief had perfected the art of moving swiftly without being heard. You had to be quiet to not get caught after all. Then she found him. Poison Mushroom Cookie, sitting all alone in the fog and cradling something in his arms. Something sparkly. Chili Pepper’s eyes widened at the prize in his hands. She didn’t know what it was, but it was glittering so it had to be valuable. She let her instincts take over as she pulled out a dagger and gave the small Cookie a small cut in the back of his head. Causing him to yell out in pain and drop the object. She snatched it up and ran off. “Haha! Betcha didn’t see that coming did ya?” Poison Mushroom Cookie stood up and slowly turned to face her. He was… Smiling?

That was weird, Cookies never smile at her when she takes their stuff. They're always angry, that was half the fun of stealing. Their angry reactions, their pointless demands for her to return what was their property but was now hers. What did she steal from him anyway? But before she could get a good look at the thing in her hands. It exploded. The blast sent her reeling backward and falling flat on her back. Her hands hurt from the explosion and she felt funny all over. Her ears were ringing and colored spots started dancing before her eyes. Was she floating? Falling? Was that tree moving? What was going on? “Huh? Wh…What happened?” She slurred. She saw multiple Poison Mushroom Cookies of various sizes walk into her line of vision. “I coated one of my explosion Shroomies with the spores of my Glow Shroomies! So it would look sparkly!” Chili Pepper realized she’d been tricked and growled through her teeth, “Why you! I oughta!” Chili Pepper tried to stand but tripped over her feet. Her coordination and balance were way off from the effects of Poison Mushroom Cookie’s Shroomy. The small Cookie took out another Shroomy and held it close to her face, ready to squeeze it to explode if the effects wore off too soon. “That’s why you shouldn’t take things that don’t belong to you,” he said with a smile. Chili Pepper growled. She hoped Wizard Cookie hadn’t seen that, he’d never let her live this down.

Dark Choco, Pomegranate, and Red Velvet charged the Dragon. The Jelly Wyrm roared and flapped its giant wings. This slowed the Cookies down a little, but thanks to the shields Healer Cookie had put up it didn't knock them back like it did last time. Healer Cookie kept his distance during the battle. A blind Cookie on the battlefield would be more of a hindrance than a help, so he aided with his magic while staying out of the range of the Dragon’s fire breath. Dark Choco Cookie leapt and sent a barrage of crimson lightning raining down on the creature. The Dragon shielded himself with his wings and snapped at the prince as he leapt out of the way. Another attack hit him from behind. The Dragon turned with a growl to see Pomegranate Cookie shooting balls of magic with her rod. They weren’t very powerful, but the Dragon was still infuriated. The audacity of that powerless little dessert to dare stand up to him with her feeble attacks. He lunged, ready to split her in twain with his powerful jaws, but Dark Choco Cookie jumped in front of her and struck him with his sword, shattering a few of his teeth. The Dragon reared back in pain and roared. “YOU! YOU!”

“Arf! Arf! Arf!”

The Dragon suddenly became aware of a tiny pupcake crawling up his back. Dark Choco Cookie struck the Dragon again, his sword bouncing off the Dragon’s hard candy armor. Pomegranate stood to the side and continued sending magic blasts, one hit the Dragon in the face and he reared back slightly. He narrowed his eyes at the tiny dessert. The sound her magic made irked him. Like a chorus of bells chiming, ringing in his ears, and driving him mad. The pupcake was on his head now, barking loudly. The prince still shouting battle cries and Pomegranate’s magic continued twinkling. He couldn’t concentrate, the noises were driving him crazy. When Healer Cookie sent a ball of light straight into his eyes, that was the last straw. He let out a roar so loud the sound could be heard echoing in the Land of Little Big Dreams.

“HOW DARE YOU! YOU FOOLISH, INFERIOR, STUPID DESSERTS! You… Dare… CHALLENGE ME! ME! A MIGHTY DRAGON WHO THE WORLD ITSELF TREMBLES AT!” He threw his head back and sent Chiffon flying. The pupcake cried out in surprise and hit the ground hard. “MY WINGS ARE A HURRICANE! MY TEETH ARE GUILLOTINES! MY ARMOR IS AN INDESTRUCTIBLE FORTRESS!” The Dragon hit Dark Choco Cookie with one of his wings, sending the Cookie flying into a tree and causing him to drop his sword. “YOUR VERY EXISTENCE IS MARKED BY DEATH! YOUR KIND WAS CREATED TO BE DEVOURED! YOU WERE ALL BORN WEAK! AND YOU HAVE THE GALL TO CALL YOURSELF STRONG!?!” He breathed fire at Pomegranate Cookie, who tried to jump out of the way, but a piece of her robe caught fire, so she had to stop, drop, and roll to put it out. “YOU ARE PUNY! FRAGILE! YOU FALL APART IF YOU REMAIN IN WATER FOR TOO LONG! YOU CRUMBLE IF YOU FALL FROM A HEIGHT THAT IS LESS THAN THE TREES OF THE HILLS! YOU! ARE! WEAK! YOU SHOULD QUAKE AT MY MIGHT AND BEG ME FOR MERCY! I AM A GREAT AND MIGHTY DRAGON! AND YOU… ARE… NOTHING!!!”

He threw his head back and blasted fire into the sky. Setting the darkened sky alight with a storm of flame. The intensity of the blaze could only be rivaled by Ovenfire. Red Velvet had to push that thought out of his mind as Dark Choco Cookie shouted, “Red Velvet Cookie! NOW!” Red Velvet Cookie rushed forwards, drawing his sword. While the Dragon was displaying his might with his firebreath display, he left his underbelly completely exposed. But by the time he ended his tantrum, it was too late. Red Velvet had leapt with a battle cry and swung his sword. His blade sliced into the Dragon’s soft stomach, splattering golden jam all over Red Velvet’s weapon, clothes, and hair. The Jelly Wyrm began thrashing about and roaring in pain. Red Velvet shut his eyes as the jam dripped into of his face, he dug his claw into the Dragon’s flesh and pushed his sword in deeper. He almost lost his grip several times, and the Dragon’s wild struggling almost threw him to the ground a couple of times. Red Velvet almost passed out several times from the force of being thrown about while hanging onto his sword. He wanted to throw up.

The wet Dragon jam that coated his hands was causing his grip to slip slightly. He sunk his teeth into the Dragon’s belly, causing his mouth to be filled with the warm golden jam, coating his tongue in a taste similar to rotten fruit. Now he really wanted to throw up. Tears streamed down the Dragon’s eyes as his roaring became more of a cry of pain. He started breathing fire at the ground, trying to hit Red Velvet and remove him from his stomach. Red Velvet’s strength finally failed him, he lost his grip on his sword and was flung off the Dragon’s belly. But he didn’t hit the ground, Healer Cookie caught him using his magic and gently levitated him to the ground. Laying the exhausted and jam-covered Cookie on his back. His eyes slowly fluttered open and Chiffon ran up to him, barking loudly, and began to lick his face. Red Velvet didn’t fight the little pupcake, he was too tired. He just smiled weakly at his precious Cake.

The Dragon continued to squirm and cry. Red Velvet Cookie’s sword still stuck in his belly like a metal splinter. “IT HURTS! IT HURTS! AAAAAAAAUUUUUUUUGGGGHHHH! NOOOOOOO!” And with that the Jelly Wyrm Dragon fell. He disappeared in a cloud of smoke, and once the fog lifted, all that remained was a tiny Jelly Worm with a large cut on his belly. He was curled into a ball and sobbing. Red Velvet Cookie’s sword lay on the ground, still wet with Dragon’s blood and glittering in the evening light. Healer Cookie helped Red Velvet to his feet. “Did you succeed? Who is that I hear crying?” he asked. “The Dragon… Or… What was the Dragon before anyway. He’s a Jelly Worm again,” Red Velvet replied, watching the little Worm laying on the ground. He had to admit, he actually felt kinda sorry for the little guy, despite having almost killed him and his friends several times. Ninja Cookie suddenly appeared next to Red Velvet Cookie. “Well done, brother! That was an excellent strike! Your technique was quite impressive!”

“Red Velvet Cookie!” Licorice Cookie cheered, running up to the Cake-Cookie hybrid and hugging him tightly. “You did it! You actually defeated a Dragon!” Red Velvet returned the hug and chuckled, “Thanks but, I couldn’t have done it without you,” he replied. “That was awesome!” Pomegranate Cookie cried running up to the group, “I can still feel my heart racing!” Schwarzwälder and Dark Choco Cookie joined them. “I can’t believe Poison Mushroom Cookie’s mushroom idea worked!” Schwarzwälder exclaimed. “That actually was quite clever, Poison Mushroom Cookie. Excellent use of strategy by using the enemy’s attributes against them. I must say, you’re full of surprises,” Dark Choco Cookie said, smiling at the fungus-flavored Cookie. Poison Mushroom Cookie beamed in pride, “Awwww, Thanks, Dark Choco Cookie!” Licorice Cookie chuckled, “I think you’ll find there’s more to Poison Mushroom Cookie than meets the eye.” Schwarzwälder looked at the smiling Cookie and rubbed the back of his neck, “Seems like I owe you an apology, Shroomy. Looks like I underestimated you.” Poison Mushroom Cookie smiled, “It’s ok! I’m just glad all my friends are ok!”

They were all so busy celebrating their victory, that they didn't notice Wizard Cookie crawling to his Wand that Ninja Cookie had dropped. He finally managed to grab onto it and set the ropes that bound him on fire. Burning them away and freeing him from his bondage. He quickly ran over to Chili Pepper who was still babbling like an idiot and forgetting how to stand, fumbling with the stolen crown in her hands. “Chili Pepper!” he whisper-shouted. “Huh? What? Did we win?” She slurred. Wizard Cookie growled through his teeth, “NO! We didn’t win! Operation Dragon has failed! We need a new plan!”

“Ahem!”

Wizard Cookie’s face turned pale as he turned to see the group of Cookies angrily staring at him with their weapons pointing toward them. The Cakes baring their teeth and growling. Even Red Velvet was showing off his Cake fang. “Uh…” He said dumbly, “Ok, new plan… RUN!” He shouted, casting a weak smokescreen spell that barely covered the ground and grabbing Chili Pepper. She let out a cry of surprise as Wizard Cookie started dragging her away, she was still stumbling a lot and slowing them down. “Wait, what? What are we doing!?” She slurred in confusion. “JUST SHUT UP AND RETREAT!” Wizard Cookie shouted. He finally picked her up and carried her when he got tired of dragging her behind him, causing her to drop the crown she was carrying. “AH! Wizard Cookie! The crown!”

“Leave it!” Wizard Cookie shouted, “The mission’s lost!”

“WHAT!?! B-B-But what are we gonna tell GingerGrave?!”

“I'll think of something!” Wizard Cookie shouted as he disappeared into the forest.

“Hey! Come back here!” Licorice Cookie shouted, starting to run after them but being stopped by Dark Choco Cookie grabbing the hood of his robes. “Don’t. Let them go. I get the feeling they’ll get their punishment soon enough.” Licorice Cookie wasn’t so sure about that, but the soft way he spoke told him to trust him. So he just sighed and listened as their voices faded away. “I don’t know why, but something tells me we haven’t seen the last of those Cookies,” Licorice Cookie said. Poison Mushroom Cookie walked up to the golden crown the two had dropped in their haste and picked it up. “I wonder what they needed this for anyway?”

“Stay back, ok?” Red Velvet swung his sword and broke the lock of the small cage that held Bat-Cat. The winged feline jumped out of the open door and stretched, overjoyed to feel the grass beneath his paws again. He purred loudly as Red Velvet Cookie picked him up and held him close to his chest. Pomegranate Cookie performed her Nature’s Blessing spell to heal his injured wing. “Thank you,” Bat-Cat breathed, burying his face in Red Velvet’s chest, tears of relief and happiness falling down his face. “Thank you for coming after me-ow.” Chiffon barked cheerfully and Red Velvet smiled at the little pet.

“Bat-Cat?”

Bat-Cat raised his head. A fresh wave of tears formed in his eyes, he gasped softly at the sight of Licorice Cookie standing several feet away with his hands to his chest and tears in his eyes. Licorice choked as he tried to breathe. “Meowster!” Bat-Cat cried, leaping out of Red Velvet Cookie’s arms and flying to the Dark Wizard. Licorice Cookie ran towards him with his arms outstretched, the two met in the middle with Bat-Cat flying into his Master’s arms and Licorice Cookie hugging him to his chest. Licorice and Bat-Cat were so overjoyed upon being reunited that they both started laughing. Licorice Cookie spun in circles several times, holding his precious pet out at arm's length. “I thought I’d never see you again!” Licorice Cookie exclaimed with tears flowing down his face. “Oh, Meowster, I missed you so much!” Bat-Cat cried. Licorice Cookie eventually lost his balance and fell on his back. The two still laughing madly and hugging one another. Schwarzwälder and the Licorice Minions ran up to the two and joined in the group hug. Cheering and celebrating their friend’s safe return.

The other Cookies stood off to the side smiling. Dark Choco Cookie nodded in satisfaction with his sword planted in the ground at his side. “Another job well done.” Pomegranate Cookie sighed happily. “I’m so glad they were reunited,” she said, leaning on Dark Choco Cookie’s side. He smiled at her and placed a hand on her shoulder. Red Velvet Cookie sniffed and rubbed his eyes, “Aw geez… I… I promised myself I wouldn’t cry.”

“I didn’t,” Poison Mushroom Cookie said before bursting into tears and wailing loudly. (Red Velvet Cookie found it much easier to keep his emotions in check after Poison Mushroom Cookie tried to blow his nose on his cape. He had to yank it out of his grasp.) Ninja Cookie smiled while watching the reunion of Licorice Cookie and his beloved pet. Then his gaze traveled to the tiny Jelly Worm, who was still sitting all by himself and crying softly. He felt a pang of pity for the crying Worm and approached him. “Are you alright?” He asked. The Jelly Worm looked up at him with tears in his eyes, he curled his tail around his stomach and mumbled, “Leave me alone.” Ninja Cookie sat down cross-legged next to the sniffling Jelly Worm. “You were hurt pretty badly during the fight. My friends have healing magic they can—”

“I DON’T WANT YOUR HELP JUST….” The Jelly Worm shouted, a fresh wave of tears interrupting his cries. “Just…*Sniffle* Leave me alone…” The little Jelly Worm continued to cry as he spoke more to himself than to Ninja Cookie. “Oh, what’s the use? I’ll never be a real Dragon. I was so close to *hic* my dream finally becoming true and then… Then…” The Jelly Worm’s words turned into sobs as he choked on air. “I see…” Ninja Cookie said, “You agreed to help those Cookies in exchange for them using their magic to help you realize your dream.” The Jelly Worm nodded. “Well… Tiny…”

“THAT IS NOT MY NAME!” The Jelly Worm screeched. “Sorry,” Ninja Cookie said softly, “What is your name?” The Jelly Worm huffed and replied, “It’s Spike.” Ninja Cookie smiled, “Spike… You do realize that those Cookies didn’t really want to help you fulfill your dream. They were just using you.” Spike lowered his head and sighed. “Yeah… I know. It’s just….” Spike raised his head again, tears shining in his eyes. “I’ve been training non-stop for years to become the next great Dragon! It’s been my dream ever since I was a little kid. Well, littler than I am now anyway… Which isn’t much…” He sighed. Licorice Cookie joined Ninja Cookie, he’d been listening in on their conversation from a distance. “But people don’t take you seriously do they? Because you’re so small,” the Dark Wizard asked. Spike nodded sadly. Licorice Cookie knelt down on his knees to be closer to the little Jelly Worm.

“Aw, Spike, you shouldn’t worry about what other people think of your dream. You can do anything you put your mind to! As long as you don’t give up! If you believe in yourself, then others will believe in you too!” Licorice Cookie exclaimed. Bat-Cat purred with pride at his Master’s words. Spike looked up, his sad expression fading to a more hopeful one. Could this be true? “Yeah, but… But… I was a Dragon and I was still weak and… It’s just so hard sometimes…”

“Spike,” Ninja Cookie said softly, “I understand how you feel.” Spike looked up at him in surprise, “You do?” he whispered. Ninja Cookie nodded, “There have been many times in my training where I’ve doubted myself and my abilities, but I knew the only limits I had were the ones I placed on myself. The road to our dreams may be long and arduous, but they’re worth every second of pain and every tear we shed along the way.”

Licorice Cookie nodded in agreement. “Besides, even if the changes Wizard Cookie made to you were permanent, you wouldn’t have really been a Dragon because you didn’t earn it. Wizard Cookie used his magic to give you power, so that strength wasn’t really yours.”

“There are no shortcuts to achieving our dreams,” Ninja Cookie added, “Nothing worth having isn’t worth working towards. And somedays… Are harder than others. When our progress stalls or the world makes us doubt ourselves. But as long as you hold onto your dreams, they’re still within your grasp. Nothing is truly impossible.” Spike’s eyes shifted to the ground. “So… You guys… Really think I can become a Dragon? On my own?”

“You made a pretty awesome one a few minutes ago!” Red Velvet Cookie cheered, walking up to the group. Chiffon barked in agreement, wagging his tail. “But it might help if you had someone to share your burden,” Ninja Cookie added. “I myself am training to become a Ninja. It’s incredibly challenging sometimes, but maybe if we trained together, we can help each other realize our dreams! So what do you say, Spike? Would you like to have a partner?” Spike looked up at Ninja Cookie in shock, “Y… You’d really do that?! You’d help me train to be a Dragon?!” Ninja Cookie nodded, “If you help me in my training. Sharing the burden and encouraging one another will lighten our load. Trials are much easier to face with friends.” The tiny Jelly Worm’s eyes sparkled with delight. “Yeah! That would be awesome! Ow…” He groaned, he had jumped slightly from excitement when a sharp pain reminded him of the injury on his stomach. Red Velvet rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly, “Oooh, are you ok? Sorry about… Attacking you earlier.” Spike sighed, “No… I’m sorry… I said some really mean things back there. So we’re even.” Ninja Cookie picked up the little Jelly Worm and held him in one hand. “No hard feelings, Spike.”

“That looks pretty bad, would you like me to fix it?” Pomegranate Cookie asked. Spike curled himself over his injury, “NO! No healing magic! I want this thing to heal naturally. It’s gonna make a sick scar!” He cheered excitedly. The other Cookies couldn’t help but laugh. Despite how tired everyone felt after the many fights and the constant running, the small band of Cookies couldn’t have felt more hopeful and happy. Spike and Ninja Cookie now had new training buddies. The Land of Little Big Dreams and Dragon’s Hill were now safe havens for their inhabitants once again. And most importantly, Bat-Cat was back where he belonged with Licorice Cookie. As the sun set behind the tree line and the stars came out, the laughter of the Cookies rang throughout the Forrest. Dark Choco Cookie looked up into the sky, the softer shades of night washing over the land.

“It’s too late now to return back to the Kingdom. Making the journey in the dark would be dangerous. I suggest building a campfire and setting up camp for the night. We can return home first thing tomorrow morning,” the prince said. Everyone agreed this was a good idea. Licorice couldn’t care either way, he was just happy to have Bat-Cat back. The group was soon sitting together around a bright and cheerful fire as they finally allowed themselves to rest after a long and difficult journey. Pomegranate and Poison Mushroom were singing the song Clover Cookie had taught them. Chiffon lay asleep in Red Velvet’s lap. Bat-Cat was cradled in Licorice Cookie’s arms while the Dark Wizard fed him the extra Bear Jellies he’d saved for him. Dark Choco Cookie reenacted the story of their adventures of the day with Schwarzwälder and Spike. Every foe they’d fought and every challenge they’d overcome. Bat-Cat listened with wide eyes, turning to Licorice Cookie to ask him every now and again, “Is that true?” Licorice Cookie would chuckle and nod.

“Hey, by the way, Healer Cookie. How did you know a Dragon’s weakness was the underbelly?” Red Velvet asked the blind Cookie. “As I said earlier, I remembered something,” he said with a smile. “Really?” Poison Mushroom Cookie said, “What did you remember?” Healer Cookie’s smile grew, “My friends. I remembered my friends. Going on this journey with you all… It reminded me of the adventures we would go on together. I remembered one of my friends had told me a Dragon’s weakness. I still don’t remember their names or faces… But I’m starting to remember their voices,” Healer Cookie cried. The other Cookies gasped in excitement. “That’s great, Healer Cookie!” Pomegranate Cookie cheered. “I imagine it’s only a matter of time before the rest of your memories return,” Dark Choco Cookie said encouragingly. “Yeah, and when they do, we can go find your old friends!” Poison Mushroom Cookie, throwing his hands up. “Yeah,” Red Velvet Cookie added, “I’m sure your friends are looking for you too. I bet they’ll be really happy to see you again.”

“You really think so, Red Velvet?” Healer Cookie said, a slight tremble in his voice. “I know so!” Red Velvet cheered. “After all, I know we would have never stopped looking for Bat-Cat had we not gotten him back tonight.” The Cake-Cookie watched as Licorice snuggled his precious pet close to his chest. Bat-Cat let out a cross between a meow and a squeak, wrapping his tail around his Master’s arm and burying his nose into his neck. The rest of the world melted away in that moment, all the two cared about was they had each other again.

Healer Cookie allowed himself to get lost in his foggy memory again. It was slightly clearer now. However, he didn’t tell Red Velvet everything he remembered. He didn’t tell him, that those two Cookies… Wizard and Chili Pepper.

Their voices were familiar.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The two Cookies knelt, each with a knee to the ground and a hand resting atop the other, their faces to the floor in shame. The way their Master had taught them to bow to show penitence. Neither dared to lift their head before the Cookie sitting on the throne in front of them gave them permission to speak. The room was cold and deathly quiet. Despite the temperature, beads of sweat were starting to roll down Chili Pepper Cookie’s face. Wizard Cookie barely dared to breathe, if he lifted his head it would be seen as a sign of disrespect and defiance to the young prince. And not only that, his eyes terrified him. How much time had passed? Minutes? Hours? How long would he keep them in this position before allowing them to lift their heads? They both hoped it was soon and never at the same time.

The Cookie sitting on the throne studied the two carefully. A gingerbread Cookie, resting his cheek in his hand, his elbow leaning on the arm of his throne. He wore a black shawl over his left shoulder, and on his right was a skull-shaped clasp, pining the fabric in place. It draped across his back and chest at a slant, like a sideways cape. His body was covered in metal rings. One on his left arm, two on his right, just above and below his elbow. One on each of his legs, the left leg band almost to his thigh, and his right leg band resting on his knee. A large one wrapped around his waist and stomach. And each of these bands was marked with magical runes that detailed the effects of the spell the rings were enchanted with.

A wisp of white frosting hair sat atop his head, and his sword lay at his side. His breathing was shallow and silent. It was near impossible to spot the rise and fall of his chest. He sat motionless, studying the two Cookies with his glassy blue eyes. If an outsider had looked in at the sight, they might have thought the two were bowing to a statue, as the Cookie had almost no signs of life about him. Even his eyes… They were soulless and hazy. Like the eyes of a corpse. Finally, he spoke, in a voice low and cold…

“So… Another failed mission.”

It wasn’t a question. It was an observation. The two couldn’t read his voice. Was he angry? Disappointed? He spoke in such a matter-of-fact way void of any feeling. And if they saw his expression it wouldn’t help. The Broken Prince always wore the same dead expression. After another eternity of silence, he waved his hand and said, “Rise.” The two slowly lifted their heads, “Y… Your Highness… I-I can explain!” Wizard Cookie began. “Hold your tongue!” GingerGrave shouted in response. The two winced as his voice echoed throughout the chamber. “I don’t want to hear your excuses.” GingerGrave shifted in his throne, placing his hands together and resting his chin atop them.

“You two promised me you’d bring back an artifact we can use for the summoning spell. You promised me you’d set up a new base for our forces to gain more territory. You promised me you’d intercept Cookies en route to the Jelly Bear Village so we could spread our Master’s Blessing.” He leaned back in his throne. “And you’ve broken. All. Three. Of those promises.”

“GingerGrave it’s not our fault!” Chili Pepper cried desperately. Wizard Cookie looked at her in disbelief. He desperately tried to get her to stop by waving his hand in front of his neck but it was hard to do without GingerGrave noticing. “Oh…” the young prince said softly. “Then… Who is to blame for your failures if not you two?”

“There were these Cookies! A whole bunch of ‘em! There was a Dark Wizard, and a Dark Cacao Warrior, a-a-and one of them was part Cake!” Chili Pepper cried. GingerGrave raised an eyebrow. “A Cookie… Who is part Cake?”

“It-It’s true, your Highness. There was a Cookie with the arm of a Cake! And he had a sword and a Cake Hound, and there was this healer who was blind. And…” Wizard Cookie stammered. “Enough,” GingerGrave said firmly. He sighed and closed his eyes. Chili Pepper and Wizard had to endure another torturous round of silence from the young prince. “How do you two expect me to be able to share Father’s Blessing with all of Earthbread, if you two keep making us more dangerous enemies?” The two looked at each other nervously, “We… We’re really sorry, GingerGrave,” Wizard Cookie whimpered. “Sorry, doesn't roll dough, Wizard Cookie. As Bitter Truth Cookie’s apprentice, I expect more from you!” He replied, glaring at the white-haired wizard. Wizard Cookie lowered his head in shame, his blue eye sparkling with tears. “And Chili Pepper, the greatest thief in all of Earthbread, and you couldn’t steal a crown and a cat, from a group of rag-tag crumbs-for-brains!” Chili Pepper placed her hands together and lowered her head as well.

GingerGrave sighed, “Not only do we have this… Cake-Cookie and his friends to deal with now… But you’ve also lost quite a lot of Cremlins from our forces. It will be twice as hard to spread Father’s Blessing with the numbers we have now. And you know Custard Cookie III won’t be pleased to hear how many of his subjects you two have lost because of your inability to plan ahead!” Chili Pepper whimpered and started shaking. But Wizard Cookie, his eyes were starting to gloss over. The effects of overusing his magic in the fights were starting to take over. He lifted his head, his eyes now looking at dead as GingerGrave’s. “We deserve whatever punishment you give us,” he said in a monotone voice.

GingerGrave glared at the two, before saying. “You lost those Cremlins, you can replace them. You’re both to report to Mount Crèmeatoa for Cremlin Creation Duty first thing tomorrow morning." Chili Pepper’s eyes widened. Cremlin Making Duty? Oh no, not that! Please, anything but that! “F-for how long?” She stuttered. “Until you can replace every last Cremlin you lost,” GingerGrave said coldly. “B… But-But that will take weeks!” She stuttered. “Then you better get to it…. And get out of my sight…” He growled. The two bowed their heads,

“Yes Prince GingerGrave,” the duo said in unison.

They turned and left. Preferably, Chili Pepper wanted to run. Ideally, she wanted to run away crying but she couldn’t. She’d already disappointed the prince enough for one day, and Wizard Cookie was going to be a mindless robot until his curse wore off. Well. At least he wouldn’t try to blame what was clearly his fault on her then. At least she had the rest of the night to scream into her pillow at the injustice of it all before she had to endure their punishment.

Cremlin Making Duty… I HATE Cremlin Making Duty!

Chapter Text

Several weeks after the events of the Battle of Dragon’s Hill, we find the first lights of dawn shining over the small Cookie Kingdom. Which, day by day, was starting to look less like a thrown-together mishmash of buildings and more like a thriving community. There was a playground for the younger Cookies. The dirt roads had been paved with chocolate and lined with streetlamps to light the way at night. Beautiful flowers grew from the well-kept trees. Blueberry birds sang in the morning to welcome the new day. There was a defined marketplace, where most of the shops such as Sparkling Cookie’s Juice Bar or Herb Cookie’s Flower Shop could be found. Healer Cookie even had his own little hut, filled with medical supplies so we could treat the injured or sick Cookies of the Kingdom.

The Castle had been cleaned up and was once again a sight of majesty and splendor. The light shone through its stained glass windows, decorating the interior with a rainbow of colors. The Castle grounds were now blanketed with sweet-smelling flowers and colorful banners fluttering in the wind, instead of rubble and overgrown weeds. At the center of town, a large clock tower was still under construction. Once completed, it would allow Cookies to see what time it was no matter where they were in the Kingdom. And if they forgot to check, the clock would chime a merry tune every hour, so Cookies would be able to keep track of time and not be late for important events or appointments they may have made with their friends. This was especially important for the younger Cookies, as they would often lose track of time while they were playing and either be late for dinner or their parents or siblings would have to come and get them.

Not only that, but the population of the young kingdom had more than doubled from its first few weeks. Not only were Pomegranate and Dark Choco Cookie settling in as somewhat permanent residents, (the Sugar Gnomes insisted on building them both their own Cookie Houses,) but every day it seemed the Cake Hounds and Wolves would come from the forest with a Cookie or two behind them. An aspiring violinist named Mint Choco Cookie had become fast friends with Sparkling, Herb, and Vampire Cookie after Sparkling invited him inside to entertain his guests on a rainy day. Mint Choco first appeared playing in the kingdom’s streets, scraping by on the few coins Cookies would toss into a small bucket at his feet while he played. After Sparkling offered him a job at his Juice Bar, his beautiful music was discovered by the kingdom. Dark Choco Cookie especially enjoyed listening to the melodies when he and Pomegranate spent their afternoons at Sparkling’s Juice Bar after a rough day. Pomegranate said many times that he seemed most at peace when listening to Mint Choco’s symphonies.

Onion Cookie had also made two more friends around her age, Pancake Cookie, and Apple Cookie. The trio would often be seen playing together near the Tree of Wishes or on the newly built playground. Pancake’s older brother, Roll Cake Cookie would sometimes watch them from afar as he helped chop logs or mine sugar.

Herb Cookie was able to spend more time with his flowers now that Beet Cookie and Carrot Cookie handled the Jellybean Orchard. Carrot was a very enthusiastic farmer, she loved veggies as much as Herb loved plants in general. Under her care, the Orchard grew stronger and bigger than ever before, there was enough extra to send on trains and with the Jelly Bear Ballon to trade with nearby towns for other sweets and materials. And Beet Cookie protected the garden day and night from intruders who might try to steal Carrot Cookie’s prized crops before harvest.

And the Smithy was now run by Avacado Cookie. Red Velvet, Dark Choco, and Licorice Cookie would go to her if ever their weapons needed repairs after a hard battle or a long day of training. (If they could endure her endless stream of puns that is.) She built all the tools needed for construction and repair, and she could do it fast. Not only were the tools she built sturdy and powerful but she could make them in less than 20 minutes whereas it would take less skilled Cookies up to an hour. In fact, this is where we find Red Velvet Cookie on this sunny morning in the Kingdom, running up to the Smithy with Avacado humming merrily to herself while she worked. Red Velvet held onto the wooden fence that separated the Smithy’s interior from its outside and leaned over in anticipation. “Avocado Cookie!” He panted, he had clearly been running a moment before as he was out of breath. But there was a wide smile on his face nonetheless. “Did you finish fixing my sword?” The Cake-Cookie asked, bouncing on his feet with excitement. “Sure did, kiddo! Finished it first thing this morning,” she said, wiping the sweat off her forehead and walking over to the wall where she kept the finished repairs awaiting their owners to retrieve them. She took Red Velvet’s sword down from a shelf and handed it to the excited Cake-Cookie. If he had the tail of a Cake as well, he would have been wagging it.

“Whoo, doggie… I gotta tell ya though, I think that little knife of yours takes more of a beating than the critters you fight with it! Took me almost an hour to buff out all the dents,” Avocado Cookie said with a warm laugh. Red Velvet Cookie admired his reflection in the shiny polished metal, “Wow, Avocado Cookie, it looks good as new!” Chiffon hopped up and down and barked happily, sharing his Cookie’s excitement. “Well, a warrior’s only as good as their weapon. You gotta take better care of that thing, Red. Or else it won’t be able to take care of you. After all, if you keep it sharp, cutting through all those Cremlins will be a piece of Cake.” Avocado Cookie said, laughing loudly. “Huh?” Red Velvet Cookie said, looking up from his sword before realizing she’d made a pun. “Oooh, right, because I’m part… Gotcha.” Red Velvet tried to strap his sword to his side with the belt Dark Choco Cookie had gotten him, but his hands were shaking so much that the strap kept slipping out of his hands.

“You seem to have an awful lotta pep in your step today, Red. Does Dark Choco Cookie have something special planned for your training today?” Avocado Cookie said with a smile. “Yeah!” Red Velvet Cookie said, finally securing his sword and holding onto the wooden fence again, standing on his toes and bouncing slightly. “I just finished my morning run around the Kingdom with the Cakes! And when Dark Choco Cookie gets back from helping Adventurer Cookie clear out some land, we’re meeting Ninja Cookie in Dragon’s Hill to train with him and Spike!” Avocado Cookie returned to forging a Candy Saw, “That’s an awful long way to walk,” she remarked. “We’re taking the Jelly Bear Balloon!” Red Velvet cheered. That’s part of the reason he was so excited, he loved traveling by Balloon. Avocado chuckled warmly, “Still, I sure hope you ate a good breakfast this morning. I’ve seen some of those workouts Dark Choco has you doing and they look pretty rough.” Red Velvet Cookie thought back to that morning. “Yeah… I had a… Hearty Rye and some yogurt… Well… Half a yogurt… I wanted to get my run in early.”

“If I were you I’d march right down to the Tree of Wishes and have the Blueberry Birds bring you something a little more filling. I’ve worked with enough warriors to know how important it is to keep your energy up. You and Chiffon both,” Avocado Cookie said, smiling at the little pupcake at Red Velvet’s feet. Red Velvet looked down at his Cake, his tongue stuck out to the side and his tail wagging with excitement. “Mmm, yeah, I suppose you’re right. Thanks again, Avocado Cookie!” Red Velvet called, waving goodbye as he and Chiffon dashed off to the Tree of Wishes. “Anytime, Red!” she called, waving back. Red Velvet ran down the chocolate streets with Chiffon at his side. He waved to Herb as he passed his Flower Shop and said hello to Blackberry as he passed her on the street.

Soon the Cake-Cookie and his pupcake arrived at the Tree of Wishes. Its branches full of Blueberry Birds who were chirping happily and hopping from branch to branch. Boxes and blank Wish Scripts lay at the roots of the tree. Vampire Cookie lay sprawled out asleep under the tree on one side. And Licorice Cookie sat beneath it with Bat-Cat curled up in his lap and his minions sitting nearby. A book lay in his hands and Licorina seemed to be trying to look over his arm to see what he was reading. Her two brothers play-fought by clashing their daggers together. The Dark Wizard lifted his head from the book he was reading and smiled as he saw Red Velvet approach. “Hey, Red Velvet. I thought you and Dark Choco Cookie were training in Dragon’s Hill today?” Bat-Cat yawned and stretched, turning over, exposing his belly and pink paws. “We are, but Avacado Cookie suggested Chiffon and I grab a little something extra to eat before we leave,” he replied, picking up a Wish Script and scribbling down a request for a couple of Tart Jampies on it.

“Her advice is certainly better than her jokes,” Licorice Cookie snickered. “Oh, come on, Licorice Cookie. Not all of Avacado Cookie’s jokes are bad,” Red Velvet said with a smile as he tied the Wish Script to a branch. A Blueberry Bird flew down and undid the knot. Flying off with a chirp a second later. Red Velvet Cookie smiled as he watched Licorice Cookie rub Bat-Cat’s belly. The two had been inseparable ever since they rescued him from the Cookies of Night. Bat-Cat had decided to give up the collar and gemstone that had caused so much trouble in the first place and return the gem to the crown, which now sat in the Cookie Castle’s Throne Room.

That crown was now a symbol of their loyalty to their friends and to one another, as it was the discussion piece that started the tale of their grand adventure. As dreadful as the experience of being kidnapped had been for Bat-Cat, even he had to admit a lot of good came out of it. They’d met Dark Choco and Pomegranate Cookie, freed Maestro Sugar Gnome and the Cake Hounds, met the Jelly Bears, Clover, and Ninja Cookie, and now Red Velvet Cookie had become Dark Choco Cookie’s apprentice and was training tirelessly to become a brave warrior like him. He’d already learned several important lessons from the prince, such as battle stances and how to hold his sword properly. He’d also been training to build up his strength, speed, and stamina. But most importantly, Red Velvet had been learning to control his emotions and how to use his negative feelings to turn the tide of a battle in his favor.

There hadn’t been any sign of the Cookies of Night, their curse, or their Cremlins (save for the few stragglers who hadn’t gotten the memo that the Cookie Kingdom was no longer their territory), since the day they’d rescued Bat-Cat. But that didn’t convince Dark Choco Cookie that they were gone for good. “It’s just the calm before the storm,” he’d warned Red Velvet, “They’ll be back, and when they return you need to be ready for them. Remain vigilant, don’t let your guard down. As a warrior, the task of protecting the kingdom will fall to you. You need to be ready for anything at all times.”

Despite the prince’s gloomy warning, Red Velvet Cookie couldn’t help but feel at peace standing under the shade of the Tree of Wishes. The Blueberry Birds' song rang in his ears, the smell of flowers in mid-bloom carried by the gentle breeze, and the sight of Licorice Cookie laughing as Bat-Cat licked his hand with his tiny sandpapery tongue. How could he feel anything but peace? Everyone in the Kingdom was always so happy. So many dreams were coming true left and right. Chiffon spotted a butterfly and chased after it, yapping loudly. He ended up knocking over a small box of Wish Scripts in his chase and Red Velvet Cookie laughed. He decided to let the little pupcake continue the game while he cleaned up the mess. He started gathering the blank scripts up in a pile when he picked one up and stared at it. He looked up at Licorice Cookie, book now forgotten at his side and hugging Bat-Cat close to his chest. He looked down at the script again, and… He wasn’t sure what possessed him to do it but he took out a quill and wrote…

I hope Bat-Cat and Licorice Cookie never get separated again.

He smiled at the words as he read them over. He knew the Blueberry Birds wouldn’t be able to grant such a wish, but it just felt nice to see the thought in physical form. It made him feel warm inside. When another wish entered his mind. He picked up another script and wrote,

I hope all the Cookies Poison Mushroom Cookie meet want to be his friend.

He decided to do one for Dark Choco and Pomegranate as well, they were his friends too. It wouldn’t be fair to leave them out.

I hope Dark Choco Cookie finds his dad.

I hope Pomegranate Cookie gets to see all of Earthbread.

But with each wish he wrote, two more came to mind. More friends with their dreams and wishes, so he wrote them down as well.

I hope Alchemist Cookie becomes the greatest Alchemist ever.

I hope Herb Cookie’s plants grow big and strong.

I hope Healer Cookie gets his memories back.

I hope Avadoco Cookie tells a joke that makes everyone laugh one day.

I hope Adventurer Cookie discovers something no one has ever found before.

“Wow, Red Velvet Cookie, getting started on your Christmas list early?” A familiar voice giggled. Red Velvet looked up to see Pomegranate Cookie standing over him with her hand to her mouth. Her eyes betrayed the smile underneath. Red Velvet suddenly realized that she had found him laying on his stomach and scribbling down on a Wish Script with dozens more scattered around him, the various wishes he’d made for his friends written with the ink still drying. “Oh… Uh… Nah, it’s just a silly little idea that came to me.” Pomegranate Cookie picked up one of the Wish Scripts and read it aloud, “I hope Ninja Cookie completes his training. Aw, Red Velvet, that’s so sweet!” Licorice Cookie walked over to the two and levaited a few Wish Scripts up to his face. Bat-Cat sat on his Master’s shoulder and purred when he noticed the one Red Velvet had written for them.

“Hehehe, have you thought about a wish for yourself yet?” Licorice Cookie chuckled. “Actually…” Red Velvet Cookie said, tapping his chin with his finger. “Yeah! I did just think of something!” Red Velvet picked up another Wish Script and wrote, I wish to become a strong warrior, so I can protect my friends and help them make their dreams come true. He slipped the paper back into the script and smiled. “Are you gonna put it up?” Pomegranate Cookie asked. “Well…” Red Velvet said slowly. “Of course, you should! The wish isn’t really made until you tie it to the Tree of Wishes,” Licorice Cookie reasoned. Red Velvet laughed softly, “Oh, ok, why not?” Pomegranate and Licorice used their magic to levitate the many other Wish Scripts Red Velvet had written. “We can help you put them up. Look, there's a free branch over there!” Pomegranate Cookie cheered, skipping over to the branch and hanging up several of the Scripts. Red Velvet tied a couple to a lower branch. Bat-Cat picked up one of the Scripts and flew into the Tree, “Leave this one to me, Meowster!” He said, flying up to a high branch and tying the Wish Script to it.

“Red Velvet Cookie! Ah, there you are.” A voice said from behind the Cake-Cookie as he tied the last Wish Script to the Tree. He turned to see Dark Choco Cookie with Poison Mushroom Cookie following close behind him. “Avacado Cookie said I could find you here. You haven’t forgotten about our training session with Ninja Cookie at Dragon’s Hill, have you?” Red Velvet Cookie shook his head, “Nope! Just thought I’d make a few Wishes before we left. For good luck.” The Prince chuckled warmly in response. Poison Mushroom Cookie raised an eyebrow, “Uh… Why are they… Glowing?” Red Velvet Cookie blinked, “Huh?” Poison Mushroom Cookie pointed and Red Velvet, Licorice, and Pomegranate turned to see the Wishes Red Velvet had written were indeed glowing. A soft light shone from the small envelopes, causing the Blueberry Birds to chirp in surprise and confusion. “Uh… What’s going on?” Licorice Cookie wondered aloud. Bat-Cat slunk into his Master’s hood and carefully peeked out. Chiffon started barking at the strange sight as the glow seemed to get stronger. “Red Velvet Cookie, what did you do?” Dark Choco Cookie asked, turning to the young warrior in training. “Nothing! I… Woah!”

Red Velvet Cookie jumped back slightly as the Wish Scripts suddenly faded into sparkling balls of light. The Blueberry Birds flapped their wings and chirped in amazement. The Cookies watched in spellbound wonder as the lights left the Tree, floating off somewhere. “What on Earthbread?” Pomegranate Cookie breathed. “AH! Red Velvet Cookie’s Wishes! They’re getting away! Quick, we gotta catch ‘em!” Poison Mushroom Cookie shouted, running after the lights. “Poison Mushroom Cookie! Wait for us!” Licorice Cookie shouted, following the small Cookie. Chiffon ran after them as well, using the sleeping Vampire Cookie as a springboard, causing him to wake and look around in confusion. “Huh? What happened?” He slurred, and then he spotted the lights. Seeing how the other Cookies were reacting to them as well, he asked, “Uh… I’m not the only Cookie seeing this right?”

The commotion attracted other Cookies as the lights floated off. Onion, Apple, and Pancake Cookie paused their game to follow after the lights. Blackberry Cookie looked up from sweeping and dropped the broom in surprise. Adventurer Cookie, naturally joined the others in the chase, even if he didn’t know exactly what was going on, he just knew it looked exciting. The lights flew right by Davis the Sugar Gnome while he was on his morning walk with a cup of tea. But the sight of the strange star-like lights and the parade of Cookies chasing after them made him pause, and look down into his tea before deciding to dump it into a nearby bush.

“I got it!” Poison Mushroom Cookie shouted, jumping to grab onto one of the lights that had floated close to the ground. He missed and ended up falling on his face. “I don’t got it,” he groaned as he lifted his head. “Looks like they’re headed for the castle… Whatever they are,” Alchemist Cookie said, appearing next to the group. “Wishes that Red Velvet Cookie made, they suddenly turned into lights and started flying off,” Licorice Cookie explained. Several weeks ago, Alchemist Cookie’s response would have been to say how that was “scientifically impossible”, but she’d been around Licorice and his magic for so long that her only response was to adjust her glasses and mumble, “Stranger things have happened in this kingdom.” However, this didn’t weaken her curiosity a bit, and she joined the rest of the Cookies in following after the lights.

Olaf and Charlie the Sugar Gnomes were working in the castle’s grounds when the lights came into view. They dropped their gardening tools and slowly joined the rest of the kingdom, watching as the lights slowed to a stop above the dry, crumbling Fountain in front of the Castle. The Cookies whispered to each other in awe and confusion as the lights floated down into the Fountain. They disappeared, seeming to fuse with the Fountain’s decaying marble. Causing the broken-down structure the glow in a soft light. A quiet rumbling began from somewhere. Chiffon hid behind Red Velvet and whimpered softly. Blackberry held Onion Cookie close. Dark Choco Cookie started to place his hand to his sword, when suddenly water burst forth from the top of the once-dry Fountain. It cascaded down into the pool, the sunlight colliding with it to create a small rainbow near the top of the makeshift waterfall. As the glow faded, the Fountain seemed to have repaired itself. Its cracks vanished and its color changed from a faded brown and gray to a glorious white.

Charlie, Olaf, and Davis gasped in wonder and amazement. “Oh my gosh!” Olaf gasped. “The Fountain… The Fountain of Abundance is flowing again!” The three brothers cheered and hugged one another in joy. They were so excited by the return of the Fountain that they joined hands and began to dance in a circle. The Cookies jumped back slightly when something came leaping out of the Fountain’s waters. The small golden object landed, glittering in the sunlight. A coin. “Huh?” Red Velvet Cookie said, tilting his head in confusion. Soon more coins began leaping out of the Fountain, as did bright blue crystals and even Star Jellies. “What is happening?” Blackberry Cookie wondered aloud. Alchemist Cookie readjusted her glasses, “My working theory is that those lights were some form of magic that restored the Fountain’s water… But… That still doesn’t explain all those other things that are coming out of it.”

“Oh, of course, it does! Those are gifts from the Fountain of Abundance. Its magical waters ran dry after the Cookies left the Kingdom, but now it is flowing freely to bless our kingdom with wonderful goods again! Doopity-Dee!” Charlie cheered. Licorice and Alchemist, being the most curious of the bunch, walked up to inspect the Fountain. “Hey, I found something!” Licorice Cookie said, “There’s some kind of plaque at the base of the Fountain. There’s writing on it.” Red Velvet and his friends joined the two near the Fountain, “Well, what does it say?” Red Velvet asked. Licorice Cookie bent down and read the inscription aloud.

“Take what you need, but never from greed. If for little you ask, much you shall receive. If no matter the gift, you accept it with glee, you shall be blessed with prosperity.”

“It details the spell the Fountain has been enchanted with,” Davis explained, “You must remember, this Kingdom was built by the Five Ancient Heroes many years ago, and this Fountain was blessed by none other than the Light of Prosperity herself, Golden Cheese Cookie.” Dark Choco Cookie turned to face him, “Auntie Cheese did this?” Chiffon barked and tried to catch one of the coins as it launched out of the Fountain. The Younger Cookies came closer and joined in the game of trying to catch the things the Fountain would send out. Red Velvet caught a Star Jelly and happily popped it into his mouth. Olaf placed his hand to his chin in thought, “Hmmmm, but what–oh what–could have gotten the Fountain flowing again?” Red Velvet rubbed the back of his neck, “Um… Well, those lights were actually a bunch of wishes I had made back at the Tree of Wishes. Maybe… That had something to do with it.”

“I don’t see how… This was clearly the work of magic and Red Velvet Cookie doesn't know magic… Do you?” Licorice Cookie said, raising his eyebrow. Red Velvet Cookie shook his head. “Wait… Wishes… What kind of wishes did you make, Red Velvet Cookie?” Olaf asked. “Oh well, um…” Red Velvet Cookie said softly, it suddenly felt a little silly, especially with everyone staring at him now. “Well, to tell you the truth… They were all Wishes for my friends… Like, Dark Choco Cookie… I wished that you would be able to find your dad.” He said smiling at the prince. Dark Choco Cookie looked surprised, a look that then melted into gratitude. “And Licorice… I wished that you and Bat-Cat would never get separated again,” Red Velvet said, turning to the Dark Wizard. “Awwww,” Licorice and Bat-Cat said in unison. “Red…” Licorice said, tears forming in his eyes. “What ja wish for Shroomy? What ja wish for Shroomy?” Poison Mushroom Cookie cheered, hopping up and down with excitement. Red Velvet Cookie chuckled, “I wished you could make a lot of new friends,” he said with a smile. “Yay!” Poison Mushroom Cookie cheered, throwing his hands up and spinning around.

“Did you make any wish for yourself, Red Velvet Cookie?” Davis asked. “Well yes… But… Well, what I wished for was to become a warrior so that I could protect my friends, so I guess even that was still not entirely just for me, hahaha,” the Cake-Cookie hybrid chuckled. “Okay,” Alchemist Cookie said softly, “But how do Red Velvet’s wishes have anything to do with the Fountain of Abundance flowing again?” She wondered placing her hand on her chin. “Why it has everything to do with it!” Olaf exclaimed, “The Fountain must have heard Red Velvet’s sincere and selfless wishes! And his gratitude brought the Fountain back to life!” Licorice Cookie read over the words written on the front of the Fountain again, “Hmmm, that does seem to line up with the spell it’s under.” Alchemist Cookie took out a small vial and placed it into the Fountain, “I’m still gonna analyze this,” she said, placing a rubber cork on top of the glass vial. “Magic or not, I still wanna see what makes this thing tick.”

“Be careful, Alchemist Cookie,” Davis warned, “Only take what is absolutely necessary. Taking too much from the Fountain may cause its waters to run dry again. It may reward gratitude, but it also punishes greed. Which is why I feel it would be best to limit retrieving gifts from the Fountain to twice a day at most.” Alchemist Cookie readjusted her glasses, “That sounds reasonable enough I suppose,” she said, holding up the vial and swishing the crystal blue water inside around. “Yeah, that’s the first thing the spell says,” Licorice Cookie added, “Take what you need, but never from greed.”

The Fountain continued to produce crystals and coins and Jellies as they spoke. “Huh, I’ve heard of Cookies tossing coins into fountains to make wishes,” Avacado Cookie said, “But this is the first time I’ve seen a wish make a fountain toss coins.” Some Cookies laughed while others rolled their eyes at Avacado Cookie’s pun. Just then, something new popped out of the Fountain’s waters and landed at Red Velvet Cookie’s feet. The Cake-Cookie carefully picked it up and rubbed his thumb over the smooth surface. It was diamond-shaped, the back side was dough, while the front was hard candy. Inside the light-green crystallized sugar were three orange blocks. “What is this?” Red Velvet asked, turning the object over in his Cake hand. “Why… That appears to be a Bouncy Caramel Topping!” Dark Choco Cookie said, looking over Red Velvet’s shoulder at the thing in his hand. “Can you eat it?” Red Velvet asked, glancing up at the warrior. Dark Choco Cookie blinked, “Well, technically yes but… Red Velvet Cookie, don’t!” Dark Choco Cookie shouted, grabbing onto Red Velvet Cookie’s hand, as he was about to put the Topping in his mouth. “Yes, you can eat them but there is something much more useful they’re used for.” Red Velvet Cookie blinked, “Like what?” Dark Choco Cookie let go of his hand and smiled, “Come with me back to my Cookie House and I’ll show you. It just might help with your training.”

Red Velvet Cookie’s eyes sparkled with excitement when he heard that. He pocketed the topping and raced after Dark Choco Cookie, the rest of their friends following close behind.

Red Velvet and Dark Choco stood at the center of the room while Pomegranate, Poison Mushroom, Schwarzwälder, Licorice Cookie, and his minions stood off to the side. Schwarzwälder was laying on his stomach and allowing Pomegranate and Poison Mushroom Cookie to lie against his side. Poison Mushroom Cookie was eating one of his Shroomies and Licorice was watching as Dark Choco Cookie examined the Topping in his hand.

“Toppings have been around since the first Cookies leapt from the Oven. They are powerful tools a Cookie can use to naturally enhance their performance. Like magical vitamins, if you will. There are 10 different kinds in all, and each one has a different effect.” Dark Choco Cookie smiled at Red Velvet Cookie, who was hanging on every word the young prince said. “Would you like to see how to use it?” Red Velvet Cookie nodded vigorously, bouncing slightly on his feet. Dark Choco Cookie chuckled at his apprentice’s enthusiasm. “Alright, but first you must remove your shirt.” Licorice Cookie let out a not-very quiet, “Huh?” Dark Choco Cookie looked over at the Dark Wizard. “It’s necessary in order to equip it,” he explained. Red Velvet Cookie didn’t question it. He’d already removed his cape and was now pulling his shirt over his head. He let it drop to the floor, leaving his chest and stomach exposed.

Dark Choco Cookie knelt down and held the Topping to Red Velvet Cookie’s bare chest. “Now, this might feel a little strange at first, ok?” he warned him. Red Velvet Cookie nodded in understanding, and Dark Choco Cookie placed the Topping’s dough against Red Velvet Cookie’s chest. A soft light, the same color as the Topping’s candy began to glow from it. Red Velvet almost stepped back and he let out a small gasp as a tingling sensation began where the Topping touched his dough. A fuzzy, pins-and-needles type feeling, similar to the feeling of one’s foot falling asleep, but on his chest. Red Velvet Cookie shuddered from the sensation but did his best to hold still as Dark Choco Cookie spoke to calm him.

“You’ll get used to the feeling the more you use them. After a while you won’t even notice it,” he said gently. Finally, the feeling began to fade and Dark Choco Cookie lifted his hand, but the Topping didn’t move. It was now fused to Red Velvet’s chest, its dough mixing with his dough. Red Velvet Cookie gasped softly and ran his hand over the diamond-shaped object stuck to his chest. It felt so strange, this thing was now a part of him, when he ran his fingers along the edges he couldn’t tell where his dough ended and the Topping began. It felt strange and alien. His heartbeat picked up the pace from the anxiety of having this strange thing attached to him.

“Heads up!” Dark Choco Cookie called. Red Velvet didn’t even have time to think before something came whizzing toward his face. His reflexes managed to catch it, but even that action felt strange. Something felt different. He heard his friends gasping softly. As Dark Choco Cookie tossed another cup toward Red Velvet, he quickly caught that one as well. “Huh… My reflexes are usually good but they’re not this good,” he said, turning the porcelain cup over in his hands. “That’s because the Topping is increasing your speed,” Dark Choco Cookie said, placing his hand on his sword’s hilt. Red Velvet’s instincts took over again as he drew his sword and blocked Dark Choco Cookie’s swing. Metal clashed against metal as Red Velvet began to realize his movements were quicker than what he was used to. The two traded a few more blows, as Red Velvet Cookie began to adjust to his new speed. The same movements and actions he’d always done in training, only much faster. He laughed as he backflipped to avoid one of Dark Choco Cookie’s swings and landed on the kitchen table.

“Huh, this thing is amazing!” Red Velvet Cookie cheered, running his Cake hand over the Topping on his chest. It no longer felt unnatural or odd. Dark Choco Cookie smiled and returned his sword to its sheath. “And that’s not all, you can equip up to five at a time, and if you equip more than one of the same kind, the effects are multiplied.” Red Velvet Cookie grinned from ear to ear, “You mean if I had even more of these things I could go even faster?” Dark Choco Cookie nodded. “That’s not the only thing they can do,” Pomegranate Cookie said, walking up to stand beside Dark Choco Cookie. “Some Toppings make a Cookie’s dough tougher so they can take more damage in battle. Others increase a Cookie’s strength and even their Mana Cap.”

Licorice Cookie appeared next to Pomegranate, “There are Toppings that increase your Mana Cap?! I want one of those! I want a Topping too!” Poison Mushroom Cookie appeared on the other side of Dark Choco Cookie and started jumping up and down, “Me too! Me too! I wanna go fast like Red Velvet Cookie!” Dark Choco Cookie closed his eye and held up a hand, “However, the effects don’t last forever, there’s only so much power the Topping can give, once it runs out, it will disappear and you’ll need to equip another one to replace it. So it's a good idea to be sparing with their power and strategize before deciding which ones to equip. The right Topping set can sometimes be the deciding factor in a battle between two evenly matched opponents,” Dark Choco Cookie explained.

Red Velvet Cookie climbed down from the table. Dark Choco Cookie tossed him his shirt and cape, which Red Velvet caught with his heightened speed. “So it’d probably be a good idea to save these for an emergency,” Red Velvet Cookie suggested. Dark Choco Cookie nodded and smiled, “Luckily it seems we can get them from the Fountain every so often, and if we use them wisely we should be able to stockpile a good few if ever we need them.” Red Velvet put his shirt and cape back on and rubbed his chest, he could still feel the Topping underneath his clothing. “Would it be ok if we tried out a few different ones before we started saving them though?” Dark Choco Cookie chuckled, “I suppose you would need to find out which kind works best for you. Every Cookie has their favorite Toppings. Solid Almonds are my preferred Topping of choice,” Dark Choco Cookie said, placing a hand to his chest. “I like Searing Raspberries and Swift Chocolates. I usually use them both together,” Pomegranate Cookie added. “Come on, we’ll check back with the Fountain of Abundance to see if there are any new Toppings after Training today,” Dark Choco Cookie said, nodding to his apprentice. “All right!” Red Velvet cheered, fist-pumping and following Dark Choco Cookie as he left. Chiffon barked and ran after the two, finding it a little harder than usual to keep up with Red Velvet Cookie.

Chapter Text

Red Velvet hacked his way through the thick foliage. He paused to catch his breath before raising his sword again and bringing it down on a thick web of vines that blocked his path, with every swing the mess of vines would become thinner and unravel. But it was like trying to cut a ball of knotted yarn in half. He was making progress, sure, but it was much slower than he liked. He let out a huff and wiped the sweat off his forehead with his Cake hand. “Phew,” he said aloud, mentally groaning at the seemingly endless sea of overgrown forest ahead of him. Normally he enjoyed clearing out space for the kingdom, but today it just felt like a chore. He was already tired from training today, Dark Choco Cookie had given him a particularly strenuous workout this morning, and then he had to help the Blueberry Birds deliver some heavy packages. (Ok, he didn’t have to help with the deliveries, but his conscience wouldn’t let him do otherwise; the poor things were just struggling so much he couldn’t possibly turn a blind eye.)

And Licorice Cookie was supposed to be the one clearing out the outer woods today, but he’d mysteriously disappeared that morning. (Alchemist Cookie said she’d overheard him grumbling about how he couldn’t find a quiet place to read and practice his magic. So it probably had something to do with that.) Red Velvet Cookie sighed and returned to hacking away at the vines, they finally fell apart and fell limply to the ground. Red Velvet Cookie nodded with a sharp huff. “It’s about time,” he grumbled. Red Velvet Cookie wasn’t usually one to complain, but he was tired, and that was putting him in a bad mood. The summer heat didn’t do much to help matters. Sure, beneath the thick branches of the trees he was protected from the harsh sun, but the humidity made the air feel thick and stuffy. Chiffon looked up at his Cookie worriedly and whimpered softly. Red Velvet turned to him with a sigh. “I’m fine, Chiffon,” he insisted as he continued down the path, it wasn’t long before he came to another mess of overgrown plants. He used his irritation as a source of energy to power through his exhaustion. He took his frustration out on the plants.

Chiffon barked once. “No, Chiffon. I don’t need to take a break,” Red Velvet Cookie replied. “Arf, arf?” Red Velvet rolled his eyes, “Yes, I’m sure. You know why?” Chiffon tilted his head and responded with a questioning “Aroo?” Red Velvet turned back to the vines, “Because warriors don’t take breaks when there’s work to be done! Have you ever seen Dark Choco Cookie just drop what he’s doing in the middle of a job to ‘take a break’?” Chiffon thought for a moment, then shook his head. “Exactly,” the Cake-Cookie hybrid replied. “And I’m not going to either, besides, I’m equipped with three Searing Raspberry Toppings right now, and I’m not going to get stronger if I don’t push myself.” He continued to talk as he cut through the bushes and prickly vines. “It’s like Ninja Cookie said once, the only limits we have are the ones we place on ourselves. And Dark Choco Cookie once told me that in order to get stronger, we have to reach our limit and then break it! Therefore, creating a new limit for ourselves, and becoming stronger. So, if I want to become a strong warrior, I have to first reach my limit and then… Break thro—AAAAHH!”

Chiffon started barking loudly as Red Velvet suddenly disappeared from view. He ran up to the spot he saw his Cookie disappear and looked around frantically. He found him upon looking down. A small ledge greeted him with Red Velvet lying facedown on the ground beneath him. Red Velvet lifted his head and spat out the strange-colored dirt. It was much lighter in color than any dirt he’d seen before, almost a yellowish-white. Dirt already tasted bad but this dirt had a different kind of bad taste. He spat several times and rubbed his tongue with his hand in an attempt to get the grainy substance and foul taste out of his mouth. It was sticking to his hands and coating his tongue. Whenever he moved he felt the ground below him shift slightly. “Uh… What?” Red Velvet Cookie said. He picked up a handful of the strange ground and watched as it fell through his fingers. He found he could easily move this strange earth into a pile, and digging through it there seemed to be no end to it. “What is th—” Red Velvet Cookie started to say before he looked up. His senses came alive with the strange new world he’d discovered. The smell of salt, a soft gentle roar, like wind but different, the endless stretch of a beautiful blue so blue it couldn’t be put into words.

He gasped softly at the sight before him. Chiffon wagged his tail in excitement. Red Velvet got back to his feet and smiled, “We’ve got to tell the others about this!” He cheered, jumping back onto the ledge and breaking into a run. Chiffon barked and ran after him, tail wagging with glee as they raced back down the path.

“You guys are never going to believe this! I-I can’t even describe it… It’s just..!”

“Hahaha, ok, ok, slow down,” Dark Choco Cookie laughed as he followed behind the Cake-Cookie. Red Velvet Cookie’s excitement was contagious, especially to the adventure-loving Pomegranate Cookie. She was skipping in front of Dark Choco Cookie and daydreaming about what incredible new discovery Red Velvet Cookie had just found. Of course, she knew that since he was an Ovenbaked Cookie, it might not be new to her, but that didn’t change the fact she could share in his excitement. Poison Mushroom Cookie brought up the rear with Schwarzwälder. The small fungus-flavored Cookie looked more concerned than excited because they were missing a member of the team. “Where’s Licorice Cookie? Shouldn’t we show him too?” He asked Schwarzwälder. The Werehound sighed, “No one’s seen him all day, and if he’s busy you know he doesn’t like being interrupted,” he reasoned. Poison Mushroom Cookie lowered his head, “I hope he’s ok…” he mumbled. It just didn’t feel right to not have him with them.

“Watch your step here,” Red Velvet Cookie said, before jumping down and disappearing. Pomegranate Cookie gasped softly and ran up to the edge where she saw him disappear. Pushing aside a large leaf, she was greeted by the sight of the horizon line and waves lapping against the sandy shore. Dark Choco Cookie soon joined her at her side and smiled. “Haha! You guys seeing this? It goes on for forever!” Red Velvet Cookie shouted, running up to the water’s edge and waving his Cake hand to gesture to the endless ocean before him. Red Velvet suddenly let out a “Yipe!” and ran away from the ocean’s edge, whimpering like a startled Cake Hound. The waves had lapped against his feet and startled him with the cold, wet sensation. Dark Choco Cookie couldn’t help but chuckle softly at Red Velvet Cookie’s reaction. He leapt from the edge and walked up to the Cake-Cookie who was still staring wide-eyed at the ocean. Dark Choco gently placed a hand on his shoulder to calm him down and smiled warmly as he looked up at him, “There’s nothing to be afraid of, Red Velvet Cookie. The ocean doesn’t have to be scary if you know how to respect it.”

“The ocean?” Red Velvet Cookie said, turning back to the glittering, crystal blue expanse. It was so beautiful, so big. Nothing like in the books Licorice Cookie had shown him. The books didn’t tell of the sounds or smell either, he found himself getting lost in the rhythm of the waves, it was oddly soothing. “Wowie zowie!” Poison Mushroom Cookie said, jumping down from the ledge and running up to the water. Pomegranate Cookie followed close behind. “No way… The kingdom has a beach!? Woo! Awesome!” Schwarzwälder cheered, scattering sand as he jumped down from the ledge. “What’s a beach?” Red Velvet asked Dark Choco Cookie. “A place where the sea meets land, just like this. Ah… This reminds me of home. Of course, the Licorice Seas’ waters are much darker… And… Monster-infested,” the prince chuckled.

Pomegranate and Poison Mushroom were splashing each other in the water and giggling. Dark Choco smiled warmly as he watched them. “Is that safe?” Red Velvet Cookie asked. “They’ll be fine, as long as they don’t get too soggy they can always dry off in the sun later. Beaches like this are often used as a popular recreation spot during the hot summer months,” Dark Choco Cookie replied, tucking a strand of hair back. It was quite hot today, and the sweat was causing pieces of hair to stick to his face. He could tell Red Velvet Cookie was also feeling the effects of the warmer weather, so he placed a hand on his shoulder and smiled. “Why don’t you go join them? It would be good for you to cool off after all your hard work today.” Red Velvet was still a little hesitant, but he trusted Dark Choco Cookie. Chiffon jumped up and down and ran into the waves barking. The sight of his pupcake happily splashing about and his friends laughing gave the young warrior in training enough courage to join them. It felt strange at first, but the cool feeling of the water was a welcome relief from the summer heat.

Dark Choco Cookie smiled warmly as he watched his apprentice. He was glad Red Velvet had such a beautiful and safe place to call home, especially after all he’d been through to get here. Closing his eye, he let his thoughts drift back to the events of the past couple months. The day he met Red Velvet and his friends, and the adventure they’d taken together that day. But he couldn’t stop thinking about those Cookies, their plans, the Cremlins, the base in the Land of Little Big Dreams, the bandages.

The curse.

He shuddered softly at the thought, trying to push back the bitter memories brought forth by the sight of those glowing blue and yellow runes. The friends he’d lost, the shouts of his men as the army of Cremlins pushed them back, the searing pain that brought him to his knees when his vision was flooded with his own jam. His scar ached, and he placed his hand over it to try to stop the throbbing as he forced himself to breathe. He opened his good eye again and allowed the sight of his friends splashing in the water and laughing to calm him.

He tried to focus on that instead. He tried to focus on the progress he was making with Red Velvet Cookie’s training, instead of the lack of progress he had made in finding his father. He tried to focus on the peaceful sound of the waves instead of the knowledge that the Blind King’s army was growing at this very moment. Yes, this place, this kingdom was peaceful and safe. And with a brave and selfless Cookie like Red Velvet Cookie protecting it, it would remain that way for years to come. That’s what he had to focus on.

Dark Choco Cookie heard a rustle in the bushes behind him and he instinctively placed his hand on his sword and swung his head in the direction of the sound, planting his feet in a battle stance and narrowing his eye. He relaxed when he recognized the messy blond hair and a stetson hat belonging to the Cookie who had come tumbling out of the woods. Adventurer Cookie brushed himself off and chuckled embarrassedly as he straightened his hat. “Woah!” he breathed in amazement. “The kingdom has a beach!?”

“That’s what Choco Werehound Brute said!” Schwarzwälder exclaimed, he was lying on his stomach, enjoying the warm sun. “Figures we’d find you here, Adventurer Cookie,” Dark Choco Cookie chuckled, removing his hand from his sword. “Yeah, well, I overheard Red Velvet Cookie shouting about some new discovery he made, and as a seasoned explorer myself, I had to take a look,” Adventurer replied with a wide smile. It wasn’t long before Alchemist Cookie also came tumbling out of the woods, followed by Olaf and Davis, who had tagged along when she had decided to follow the group into the woods. Adventurer Cookie decided to go spread the news about the new area to the rest of the kingdom, while Alchemist began to explore the beach. It wasn’t long before half the kingdom could be found playing in the water or resting on the sandy shore.

Alchemist Cookie was hard at work collecting sand and water samples as well as any seashells or ocean plants that would wash up on the shore. The Sugar Gnomes went right to work building beach chairs and umbrellas for their Cookie friends to relax on. Pomegranate and Poison Mushroom sat near the water’s edge building sandcastles. And Sparkling Cookie had gifted Red Velvet a frisbee for him to play with Chiffon. He would toss it towards the ocean and Chiffon would try to catch it before it fell into the water. He would dive under the waves and resurface holding the toy in his mouth and wagging his tail proudly. As the sound of laughter filled the air, the beach was officially christened as a part of their kingdom.

In Alchemist Cookie’s wandering, she came across several rotted planks of wood floating about. Some were dangling off wooden posts that led into the ocean, the tide threatening to wash them away at any given second. After a couple of minutes of examining the old wooden structure, she concluded it to be an old dock. Worn down by time and tide. “The posts are still in pretty good condition,” she said, mostly to herself as she inspected the seaweed-covered logs. “Hmmm… If the planks were replaced, it looks like it could still function as a sturdy boardwalk.”

“That’s a great idea, kiddo!”

Alchemist Cookie jumped slightly as she heard Avocado Cookie’s boisterous voice behind her. Avocado placed a strong hand on the shorter Cookie’s shoulder. “Why, with the right tools, I betcha we can fix up this here wood into a mighty fine dock! One our kingdom can be proud of!” Alchemist Cookie couldn’t help but roll her eyes at Avocado Cookie’s over-the-top enthusiasm. But the idea did excite her. “Oh, hey! Alchemist Cookie found a bridge that leads out to sea! I wonder where it goes?” Poison Mushroom Cookie said, walking up to the group. Avocado Cookie laughed heartily. “It’s not a bridge, Mushy. It’s a dock, a place for ships to come in and weigh anchor,” she explained with a smile. “Oh… Um… Who’s Doc?” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked. Avocado Cookie laughed. “Not who… What. A dock is a place for ships to… Uh… Dock. Y’know, a place they can come to shore.” Red Velvet Cookie suddenly appeared next to Alchemist, “So if someone wanted to come to our kingdom by ship, they would be able to use the dock?” he asked. “That’s right kiddo. To sea-faring Cookies, a dock is a kingdom’s way of saying ‘welcome’!” An excited sparkle appeared in Red Velvet Cookie’s eyes. “Do you think if we fix up the dock, Cookies from faraway places will come to visit us?” “I don’t see why not,” Avocado Cookie replied. “Doopity-dee! This sounds like a job for my brothers and me!” Charlie said, suddenly appearing at Avocado Cookie’s feet, waving his tiny hammer proudly. “Now, hold on!” Alchemist Cookie exclaimed. “I get that you guys are the kingdom’s main construction workers, but fixing the dock up was Avocado Cookie’s and my idea. I think it’s only fair that we get to be the ones to build it,” she said with a smile as she readjusted her glasses. The light hit the glass just right so that her eyes were covered by a veil of white. Olaf and Davis joined the group, “But we’re the most experienced when it comes to building things. Sure, Avocado Cookie is super good at building things, and you’re super smart, and Red Velvet Cookie is super strong… But we have experience, my dear. Experience. Doopity-doo!”

Red Velvet stepped in between the two groups, “Why don’t we all work together? The dock is out in the ocean, and it will be hard for the Sugar Gnomes to fix it without getting wet. You guys melt a lot faster than a Cookie can get soggy. We can do the repairs while you guys give us instructions and advice on how it's done!” He suggested. Charlie rubbed his chin in thought. “Hmmm… Well, I suppose every construction job needs proper supervision. What do you think, boys?” Charlie asked, turning to his brothers. “Sounds good to me!” Olaf replied. “Yes, yes, I do believe Red Velvet has a point. We would have to take a lot more breaks to keep from melting if we get wet, and that would slow down the construction time quite a bit,” Davis agreed. “Studies have shown that working together does make a job go by a lot faster, and allows for better creative flow,” Alchemist Cookie added. “Then let’s do it! Let’s fix the dock so we can meet new Cookie friends from the ocean!” Poison Mushroom Cookie cheered.

“Woo!” “Yeah!” “Alright!”

“Whatever…”

The group turned to see the owner of the mood-killing voice to be none other than Vampire Cookie, who was lying under a beach umbrella with a glass of Grape Juice in his hand and chuckling slightly. “I can’t believe you guys are getting yourselves so excited over work. It’s a beach. They’re made for relaxing, not working. Have you ever relaxed a day in your life, little sis?” Alchemist Cookie gritted her teeth and groaned loudly. “Vampire Cookie, if you don’t shut up, I’m going to bury you in the sand!”

“That sounds nice.”

“Head-first…” Alchemist Cookie hissed through gritted teeth. “That sounds… Less nice,” Vampire Cookie slurred. Alchemist Cookie started holding her breath in frustration and causing her face to turn red. “Unbelievable, you Cookies seriously want to spend your whole day hammering wood instead of sunbathing?” Vampire Cookie quipped. “Well, now, I wouldn’t say we’d spend the whole day on the project,” Davis replied. “Why, with all our combined efforts, the job should only take about an hour.” Vampire Cookie scoffed and swished his drink in his hand, “With my sister helping you’ll be lucky to get it done in double that time. She tends to blow up anything that she’s never done before,” he chuckled. “I DO NOT!” Alchemist Cookie shouted angrily, stomping her foot and almost kicking sand into Chiffon’s face. The pupcake sneezed and hid behind Red Velvet Cookie’s cape. “There’s no way you could fix that thing up in less than an hour,” Vampire Cookie continued.

The Sugar Gnomes looked as if they had been stuck by a lightning bolt. Charlie’s eye started to twitch ever so slightly, “I’m sorry… What was that?” He said slowly. “Are you saying we couldn’t get this dock built in half an hour?” Olaf snapped, placing his hands on his hips. “Eh…” Vampire Cookie said, unconcernedly sipping from his glass. “Oh… That tears it!” Davis shouted, “We WILL have this dock fixed in half an hour and not a second more! You can bet your sweet bippy on that one!” Vampire Cookie just looked at the Sugar Gnomes with his lopsided grin. “Um… Hey… Guys, look… There’s no need to get worked up,” Red Velvet Cookie said, awkwardly rubbing the back of his neck. The altercation had not gone unnoticed by the rest of the Cookies at the beach. Normally at this point everyone just kind of ignored Vampire’s and Alchemist Cookie’s family drama, but this was the first time the siblings’ argument had drawn someone else into it. (And besides that, it was an interesting challenge. Could the Sugar Gnomes build something at the same quality they always did under a time crunch?)

Charlie scoffed, “Wha— Uh… N-no need to get worked up? Red Velvet, he has insulted our honor as Sugar Gnomes! We are the greatest architects known to dessert kind, if he thinks that we cannot complete such a simple task, with help no less, with such a meager limitation, then we have no choice but to prove him wrong! Our pride is on the line here, boys… Olaf! Start drawing up plans! Davis! You gather the supplies! We’ll have this dock fixed in half an hour or my name isn’t Charlie G. Sugar Gnome!”

“Sir, yes, sir!” The two Sugar Gnomes replied, saluting and running off to their respective tasks. “Oooh! Now, this just got exciting!” Avocado Cookie said. “Alright, if you guys insist,” Vampire Cookie said, taking his phone out of his pocket and opening his clock app. “Time starts… Now!”

“I’ll help you draw up the plans, Olaf,” Alchemist Cookie said, “I’ve been reading some books on team dynamics and ways to increase productivity in a large multi-Cookie project. That should help us cut back on our time,” she said, readjusting her glasses. “Red Velvet Cookie, you’re the fastest and strongest, go with Davis to help him collect the supplies. We’re gonna need freshly cut Roll Cake Wood, and some tools from my workshop! Make sure the wood isn’t warped,” Avocado Cookie said. “You got it!” Red Velvet Cookie exclaimed, happy to be able to help. He and Chiffon ran back to the kingdom with Davis in tow, while Charlie and Avocado Cookie began to tear up the old boards to make way for the new ones. “That’s one minute down, 29 to go, little sis,” Vampire Cookie said, glancing up from his phone. Alchemist Cookie tried to ignore him and focus on the building plans.

At the 5-minute mark, Red Velvet had returned carrying tools in his arms and a pack of wood on his back. Chiffon was also carrying a plank of wood in his mouth and with a few more slabs tied to his back, he was wagging his tail proudly and holding his head high. Alchemist and Olaf had finished going over the plan with their teammates and everyone took their respective places.

At the 15-minute mark, the rotten wood had been replaced with fresh planks and the Sugar Gnomes began passing out the tools and offering advice. “Hammer straight down! If you go at an angle you could bend the nail, then you’ll have to pull it out and start all over again!” Charlie told Alchemist Cookie. “Red Velvet Cookie! Be careful, hammer too hard and you’ll crack the wood!” Davis exclaimed.

“10 minutes left to go, y’all,” Vampire Cookie slurred. Red Velvet Cookie wasn’t sure if he was sweating from the heat or from the adrenaline, but either way, he liked it. They were almost halfway there. Avocado Cookie warned them to be careful not to bring the hammer down on their hands as they worked. “Go slower, Alchemist Cookie, or you’re gonna get yourself hurt!” she had warned the short purple-haired Cookie. “We don’t have time to go slower!” She shot back. “Be quick, but don’t rush,” Red Velvet Cookie said softly. “What?” Was her response. “It’s something Dark Choco Cookie told me a long time ago. ‘Haste makes waste, so be quick, but don’t rush’. Focus. Drown out any distractions and focus completely on the task at hand. Focus on doing it right, not doing it fast. If you make a mistake you’ll waste more time having to go back and correct it,” he explained. Alchemist had to admit, it was solid advice, she had already had to pull up several nails after she’d bent them by trying to get them in the planks faster.

“T minus 5 minutes, you’ve still got a few planks to go,” Vampire said in a sing-songy voice. Alchemist Cookie took a deep breath, “Ignore distractions… Ignore distractions,” she whispered to herself as she tried to focus as Red Velvet Cookie had told her. On the final minute, the Cookies had misplaced the final nail and several seconds of precious time were lost as they had to find it. “Thirty seconds!” Vampire Cookie called as Chiffon barked to alert his friends that he had found the missing nail.

“And in 10… 9…”

“I’ll hold it in place. Red, you hammer… I…I’m too nervous… Oh my stars, I’m shaking…” Alchemist Cookie groaned.

“8… 7… 6…”

“Do you have it in yet!?”

“Just hang on!”

“5… 4…”

“C’mon Red Velvet Cookie!” Charlie shouted, hopping up and down nervously. “Ooh, I can’t watch…” Davis breathed, covering his eyes.

“3… 2…”

“GOT IT!” Red Velvet Cookie shouted, standing up quickly and dropping his tool. Alchemist Cookie let out a breath she didn’t realize she was holding, and the Sugar Gnomes broke into cheers of celebration. Vampire Cookie looked at the timer on the screen, “And with less than a second to spare, impressive.” The other Cookies watching cheered. Red Velvet Cookie stood up and wiped the sweat off his brow and finally took a good look at the finished project. It actually did look very good, and a quick stomp on the wooden floor confirmed it was sturdy. “That’s a mighty fine job, kids. Good work!” Avocado Cookie cheered, swinging her hammer over her shoulder. “Thanks,” Alchemist Cookie said, taking her glasses off and cleaning them with the sleeve of her shirt. “It was hard, but also kinda fun.” Vampire Cookie yawned loudly, “I’ll say, just watching you guys has made me tired. *Yawn* Nap time for me,” he said, turning over and laying down in the sand with his cape wrapped around him like a blanket. Alchemist Cookie just rolled her eyes as Red Velvet and Avocado Cookie laughed. Poison Mushroom Cookie suddenly ran past her shouting, “Cannonball!” and diving off the dock into the water. Red Velvet Cookie let out a cry of surprise and ran up to the edge of the dock just in time to see Poison Mushroom Cookie resurface, spitting out a stream of water before giggling and splashing. Red Velvet breathed a sigh of relief. “Well, I guess that’s one way to use it,” Alchemist Cookie chuckled.

“Ooh! That gives me a brilliant idea!” Charlie exclaimed, “We should add a diving board!” Olaf waved his hand as he replied, “Oh! We’re also going to need a lifeguard tower as well! Beach safety is important!” Davis nodded in agreement, “Then perhaps we should rope off a section of the more shallow water for the younger Cookies, that will also make the beach more safe.” As the Sugar Gnomes continued to talk amongst themselves of future projects to improve the kingdom’s newest expansion, Dark Choco Cookie and Pomegranate Cookie met Red Velvet on the edge of the dock to help him pull Poison Mushroom Cookie out of the water. “You all did a very good job! You should be proud,” Dark Choco Cookie praised the Cake-Cookie hybrid. “All that’s left is to wait for a ship to come in,” Red Velvet said with a smile. Chiffon barked excitedly in agreement. Dark Choco Cookie chuckled softly, “Now, that might take a while, Red Velvet Cookie. Your kingdom is still growing and it’s only recently been put back on the map in the nearby areas. It will probably be a while before…”

“Ahoy there!”

The Cookies looked up in surprise to see a small canoe out on the water. “Well… That was fast,” Alchemist Cookie said. The Cookie rowing the canoe had a bright smile and a large orange hat. Next to him was a Cookie with bright pink hair and a frilly dress, “Ahoy!” she cheered, waving to the Cookies on the beach. A Cookie with long white hair and a very expensive-looking outfit was leaning over the side of the canoe and groaning, and a Cookie with purple hair and eyes was patting his back. Red Velvet Cookie saw what he thought was a shark swimming beside the canoe, but as they came closer he realized it was a Cookie. “Hey! Knight Cookie, look!” The shark-Cookie cheered. A Cookie dressed in white chocolate armor sat up, his eyes widened as he noticed the small beach. “LAND HO!” He shouted. Dark Choco and Adventurer Cookie waded into the water to help the small band of Cookies to shore.

Knight Cookie stumbled out of the boat and fell onto the beach, kissing the sand and muttering, “Sweet land. Mawh, mawh, mawh, mawh, sweet land.” The shark-Cookie chuckled slightly, “You’ll have to excuse him, we’ve been out a sea a long time, and Knight Cookie still hasn’t earned his sea legs yet.” The ferryman took the pink-haired Cookie’s hand and helped her out of the canoe, “Thanks, Mango Cookie!” She said with a sweet smile. She had a very elegant air about her. Her footsteps were light, and her pigtails bounced about as she stepped out of the canoe. The Cookies were more than excited to see new visitors, Red Velvet pushed his way to the front of the crowd, carrying Chiffon in his arms so he wouldn’t get trampled. The pink-haired Cookie was happily greeting everyone who ran up to her to welcome the group, but she forgot all about everyone else when she caught sight of the pupcake in Red Velvet Cookie’s arms. Her eyes sparkled as she gasped, “Oh my gosh! A Cake Hound! Excuse me! Pardon me! Awwww! Aren’t you just the cutest little puppy ever!” she squealed, patting the little pupcake on the head. Chiffon wagged his tail vigorously from the attention.

Knight Cookie finally lifted his head from the sand and scrambled to his feet, “Your Highness! Stop! You know you’re not supposed to touch another Cookie’s Cake Hound without their owner’s permission!” Red Velvet Cookie chuckled softly, “Ah, it’s fine! Chiffon loves meeting new people. I’m Red Velvet Cookie, and… Wait… Your Highness? You’re royalty?” The pink-haired Cookie nodded, “Yup, my name’s Princess Cookie, heir to the Hollyberry Kingdom. The stick-in-the-mud over there is my bodyguard, Knight Cookie.” Knight Cookie looked hurt, “Hey, I’m not a stick in the mud!” Princess Cookie just chuckled, “I was vacationing in the Tropical Soda Islands when we ran into a bit of trouble, you see, we were blown off course and…” Princess Cookie stopped, Red Velvet followed her gaze to see Dark Choco Cookie giving the princess a strange look. Princess Cookie was giving him the exact same look. “Do I…” They both started to say at the same time before their royal upbringing took over and they both started insisting the other speak first. “Sorry, my apologies, you first,” Dark Choco Cookie said with all the air expected from a prince. “No, no, no, I insist, you,” Princess Cookie replied. “Ladies first,” Dark Choco Cookie insisted. Princess Cookie finally relented and said, “Do I know you?”

“I was literally about to ask you the same thing,” Dark Choco Cookie said with a chuckle. “Wait… Do you know her, Dark Choco Cookie?” Pomegranate Cookie asked. “Dark Choco Cookie? Wait… Prince Dark Choco Cookie of the Dark Cacao Kingdom?” Dark Choco Cookie was going to reply when he realized where he recognized her from. “Hold on… Princess Cookie, princess of the Hollyberry kingdom! My goodness, I haven’t seen you since you were a child!” Red Velvet Cookie blinked in surprise, “Wait, so you too do know each other?” Pomegranate Cookie smiled, “That makes sense considering they’re both royals.”

“Of course! My Grandmama was close friends with Dark Choco Cookie’s dad. They both disappeared after the war though, so I never really got to meet either of them. I only know what I do know about them from my mother’s stories. But had I gotten to meet him, I would have called him uncle just like Dark Choco Cookie called my Grandmama Auntie. We’re like… Almost-Cousins!” Princess Cookie cheered. “Well, it’s a pleasure to meet you, your highness,” Knight Cookie said, smiling at Dark Choco Cookie. “Please, just Dark Choco Cookie, we’re not in the Dark Cacao Kingdom,” Dark Choco Cookie chuckled. “Hey! Hey! Yogurt Cream Cookie! You’re never going to believe this! Come meet my almost-cousin!” Princess Cookie called, waving over the Cookie who had been leaning over the side of the boat. He was groaning and stumbling, only managing to make it over to the group with the help of the purple-haired Cookie and the Mango Cookie. He straightened his hat and fanned himself with an ornately decorated fan.

“No offense to your boating skills, Mango Cookie. But if I ever go out on the ocean again, it will never be in such a dingy little raft as that. Uuugh….” Yogurt Cream Cookie said to the Cookie in an orange hat. The Cookie didn’t seem upset by the remark, his smile never faltered, “Aw, that’s alright Yogurt Cream Cookie, not everyone can handle the rough waves,” Mango Cookie replied. Princess Cookie smiled, “Everyone, these are my new friends, Mango Cookie, he showed us around the Tropical Soda Islands and offered us a ride on his canoe!” The Cookie in the orange hat smiled warmly, “You must come visit our islands sometime! The natural beauty is really a sight to behold! And, the Watermelon Juice is really good!”

“Did someone say Juice?” Vampire Cookie said materializing next to Dark Choco Cookie. “Ignore him,” Alchemist Cookie said with a sigh. “Are you feeling better, Yogurt Cream Cookie?” The purpled-haired Cookie asked. Yogurt Cream Cookie sighed as he continued fanning himself. “Yes… I think the seasickness is wearing off now.” Princess Cookie walked over to him and placed a hand on his shoulder. “This is Yogurt Cream Cookie! He’s the son of a wealthy merchant from Yogurca! He helped us take the Tropical Soda Islands back from the Durianeers!” She cheered. “Who are the Durianeers?” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked.

“TheDurianeersareabunchofpiratesbuttheynevercausedtroupleinourTropicalSodaIslandsuntilrecetnlybut—” Mango Cookie started to say before Knight Cookie placed his hand over his mouth. “Pirates… They were Pirates… It’s a long story,” Knight Cookie sighed. The Shark-Cookie suddenly jumped out of the water and landed next to Princess Cookie. “OOooooOOOOooooOO!” He bubbled. “Huh?” Pomegranate Cookie said. “Come again?” Red Velvet Cookie asked. “What did he say?” Poison Mushroom Cookie said. “Oh, that’s Sorbet Shark Cookie,” Knight Cookie said, “He used to be a Durianeer Crew Member, before old Stink-Eye Tortuca decided to abandon him and the rest of his crew, so… Princess Cookie decided to let him tag along with us,” Knight Cookie said in a tone that made it clear he wasn’t happy about the little Cookie joining them. Princess Cookie noticed and gave him a correcting look, “Now, Knight Cookie, if it hadn’t been for Sorbet Shark Cookie we would have all gotten soggy after the ship capsized!”

“I agree with Princess Cookie. His former affiliation matters not, Sorbet Shark Cookie was essential in escaping the shipwreck and retrieving your family treasures from the Durianeer Captain,” the Purple-haired Cookie said. “Ah, this is Lilac Cookie, my bodyguard and closest friend,” Yogurt Cream Cookie said. “It’s a pleasure to meet you all! My name’s Red Velvet Cookie, and these are my friends, Poison Mushroom Cookie, Dark Choco Cookie, and that’s Pomegranate Cookie,” the Cake-Cookie said, nodding to the pink-clad Priestess who was listening to the story with stars in her eyes. “Pirates! Shipwreck! Treasures! That sounds like such an amazing adventure!” She exclaimed. Dark Choco Cookie laughed softly. “The pleasure is all ours. Any friend of Princess Cookie’s family is a friend of mine, almost-family or otherwise,” Yogurt Cream Cookie said. “I owe a lot to you, Princess, without your help I would have never gotten my family’s most precious treasure back from those dreadful pirates!” He said, pulling a heart-shaped crystal that shone like the sun from his shirt. “Behold, the Naga’s Heart! My most prized possession!” He smiled as the small group of Cookies gasped softly at the beautiful gemstone.

“My goodness, I don’t think even the rubies of my homeland could rival that stone’s beauty,” Pomegranate Cookie breathed. “The light almost rivals that of the Ancient Heros’ Soul Jams!” Dark Choco Cookie exclaimed. Yogurt Cream Cookie smiled proudly. Lilac Cookie tapped him on the shoulder. “Yogurt Cream Cookie, what have I told you about showing off your treasures? You don’t want to lose it twice in the same day,” he warned in a monotone voice. Yogurt Cream Cookie scoffed, “These Cookies can be trusted if Princess Cookie trusts them. They’re nothing like those savage pirates who stole my precious Naga’s Heart!”

“You lost it in a bet…” Lilac Cookie deadpanned. “I only lost because he cheated!” Yogurt Cream Cookie shouted in return. “That’s true, he did cheat,” Princess Cookie added. “That sounds like quite the adventure, you all must be exhausted,” Sparkling Cookie said, stepping up to the group with all his usual charm. “Absolutely… Plus, it’s getting quite late and I was due back home two days ago. Father must be worried sick, so is there a chance any of you could tell how far we are from Yogurca and point me in that direction?” Yogurt Cream Cookie said. “Um…” Pomegranate Cookie said, looking up at Dark Choco Cookie. “Sorry, I’m afraid we don’t,” the prince said. “You wouldn’t happen to know the way back to the Hollyberry Kingdom, either would you?” Princess Cookie asked. “I’m afraid not,” Red Velvet Cookie said. Chiffon whimpered softly and flattened his ears back against his head. “That storm did blow us quite a ways off course,” Mango Cookie said softly, “Even I’m not sure where we are.”

“Well… If you’d like to stay a while until we can tell you how to get back, we can gladly build you each your own Cookie Houses!” Davis said happily. The other Sugar Gnomes nodded in agreement. Yogurt Cream Cookie thought it over for a second. “Well, this kingdom certainly does seem friendly enough. And the sand on their beach, it’s so soft. It reminds me of the sands of home. I believe I could build a summer home here. But it needs to be big, big enough to hold a lot of treasures. I’m a bit of a collector you see,” he said. Lilac Cookie hummed softly, “Yes, I suppose that would be alright.” Adventurer Cookie stepped to the front of the group, “No way! You’re a treasure hunter too!” The two quickly began a conversation of their various expeditions and began comparing the places they’d both been to and their favorite kinds of treasures.

Pomegranate and Princess Cookie were already deep in a discussion about their favorite adventures they’d been on. The two seemed to become fast friends because of their similar love of adventure. “No way! You guys fought a Dragon!” Princess Cookie gasped. Dark Choco Cookie chuckled, “Well not exactly a Dragon but..” Lilac Cookie left with the Sugar Gnomes to discuss plans for the Cookie Mansion. (He wanted to ensure his charge’s home had a strong security system.) Princess Cookie decided to catch up with her almost-cousin and his friends on lost time. The group spent the next few hours chatting. Red Velvet Cookie was telling Princess Cookie the story of how Chiffon had helped him escape from the Witch when a Cookie appeared on the ledge.

“Dark Choco Cookie! Guys! Oh, there you are! I’ve been looking all over for you!”

Poison Mushroom Cookie gasped loudly, “Licorice Cookie!” The Dark Wizard stood on top of the ledge with Bat-Cat on his shoulder and a book in his hands. Licorice Cookie looked out at the ocean and sand, “Wow, I didn’t know the kingdom had a beach,” he said. “Yeah, man, where have you been all day? You’ve been missing out on all the fun! Come and meet Dark Choco Cookie’s Almost-cousin, Princess Cookie!” Red Velvet Cookie said, gesturing to Princess Cookie, who was smiling and waving hello in her very royal fashion. “Yeah, yeah, that’s nice… But I’ve got to show you guys something! You’re never going to believe this!” Licorice Cookie shouted. “What could be more interesting than meeting my almost-family?” Dark Choco Cookie replied, giving the Wizard a side-eye. “What about finding a clue to where you can find your real family?” Licorice Cookie said, waving the book in his hands. Dark Choco Cookie did a double take when he realized what Licorice Cookie was saying. “What?” he said, whipping his head in Licorice Cookie’s direction. “I thought that would get your attention,” Licorice Cookie said coyly.

“Meowster found something that might give us a clue on where to find your dad, Dark Choco Cookie!” Bat-Cat said, excitedly flapping his wings. Dark Choco Cookie stared at the two wide-eyed for a moment, before leaping onto the ledge next to him. “What!? What did you find!?” Licorice Cookie waved the book and smiled, “Just follow me!” And with that, the group quickly made their way back to the kingdom’s main square. “We’ll talk to you later, Princess Cookie!” Red Velvet Cookie called as he raced after his friends. “Good luck everybody!” She called back, waving farewell.

Past the ruins of a long-dead civilization lies a massive Custard Volcano. For years it had slumbered, undisturbed. Until one day, an ambitious Wizard decided to use its gooey lava to create a creature of his own design. One that would be loyal to him and his master plans. A giant tube sat at the bottom of the Volcano, pumping Custard lava out and into a giant vat. Fans would stir and cool the Custard over a few hours and they would then be placed into smaller chambers and mixed with magic and life energy. The Custard boiled and hissed and began to move on its own accord, as it was struck again and again with magical energy. Once it began to make sounds of pain, that was a sign it was ready. The tubs of now-sentient Custard would then travel down the dark tubes and onto a conveyor belt, and slowly begin to take form. An eye would open, a mouth would speak in gurgles, an arm would reach out. Once the conveyor belt stopped, older Cremlins would step forward to complete the final process of their newborn brethren’s birth. They would shape the glob of Custard until the newborn Cremlin had a proper body, they would then wrap them in bandages to help hold their bodies together and prevent them from regressing into the pile of goo they started as.

A newborn Cremlin gurgled as some older Cremlins went through the process, the first few seconds of her existence had been nothing but pain and confusion, just like all the others. An older Cremlin finished wrapping her up and patted her on the head. She stopped squirming as she slowly began to realize… She was alive, and these were her kin. A few other Cremlins took her hand and helped her down off the conveyor belt, helping her take her first steps, and gurgling praise when she managed to walk on her own. This would likely be the only comfort or kindness she would receive in her cruelly short life. A Cookie stepped up to the infant Cremlin and looked her over with a judging eye. He poked her with his pencil and prodded her as he circled her like a shark circling its prey. “Hmmm… Yes, yes, consistency seems about right…” He shone a light in her eyes and she gurged in shock as the Cookie continued mumbling to himself. He then pushed her over and took a stopwatch out of his pocket. The newborn Cremlin gurgled in pain and confusion as she looked up at her fellow Cremlins, her eyes pleading with them for help.

They just looked away. She couldn’t understand, why were they letting this monster mistreat her this way? “Get up!” The Cookie said sharply. The Cremlin looked up at him, eyes filled with fear. She slowly got to her feet and walked up to him. He clicked a button on the stopwatch and looked at it disapprovingly. “Mmmm…” He pushed her down again and repeated the process, this time she was a bit faster to respond. “That’s better,” he said, in a tone that was still too cold for the statement to be taken as approval or a compliment. He then tried to push her again, but the young Cremlin stepped out of his way this time. He turned to her, “Good,” he took out his clipboard and marked something with his pencil. “Stand still this time,” he said, walking up to her. She did as she was told and was rewarded by hitting the ground again. He started the stopwatch, “Get up.” She did as she was told, and tried her best not to cry. The Cookie nodded, “Reflexes, check. Obedience, check. Good, it seems we have another Scout. I was worried for a second we’d have to ship this one off to Custard Cookie III.”

He wasn’t worried for the Cremlin’s sake. He was worried that’d be another Cremlin they’d have to make. They’d completed the Waffle Wings earlier that month, though the process of creating them was more complex, shipping them off was easier. These Cremlins had to be put into categories. They were either Scouts, Armored Warriors, or House Servants. Scouts were strong enough to enter battle but not strong enough to fight for long. That’s why their main purpose was self-destructing and spreading the curse. If a newborn Cremlin showed promise, they would be taken to a special training facility and suited for armor and weapons. If a Cremlin showed too much weakness, they would be deemed unworthy for the battlefield and sent to BrightLight Castle to work as personal servants for the Blind King and his followers.

“That means… We’re halfway done with this last batch… Hey! Chili Pepper! We’re in the home stretch now!” Wizard Cookie shouted up to his partner, who was grumbling and stirring a large vat of Custard. They were both wearing tight leather suits to protect themselves from the heat, but despite that, they were both sweating heavily. Chili Pepper Cookie wiped the sweat off her forehead and grumbled as she continued to stir the large vat. Mt. Crèmeatoa was covered in metal and gears. The giant machine the Blind King had built to make his creations worked day and night to create the monsters that made up his army. Technically the process was fully automated, but the work went by faster by having Cookies at various stages of the machine. But the work was grueling and dangerous, as the heat was much too intense for many Cookies to stand for very long. Which is why it was normal to only see Cremlins working at the makeshift factory, as they were considered much more expendable. (Unless of course… Those Cookies had to be punished for something.)

The boiling cream in the vat popped and sputtered, some of the cream landed on Chili Pepper’s face, burning her, again. She cried out in pain and angrily threw the stirring stick to the side. She stomped her foot and screamed into the sky, “I! HATE! CREMLIN MAKING DUTY!” Wizard Cookie sighed as he pushed another Cremlin down, “So do I… But we’re nearly finished at least.” Wizard Cookie’s curse had worn off a little while ago, so he could finally feel emotions again. Which meant he shared in Chili Pepper’s hatred of their punishment. Had he been able to respond earlier they might have gotten into an argument over who was more at fault for landing them in this situation in the first place. But after having only her thoughts to keep her company for the hours of sweltering, arm-numbing work, Chili Pepper realized neither she nor Wizard Cookie were to blame for their failure.

That Cake-Cookie and his stupid friends. They were the ones responsible for this. The more she thought about it the more she hated them. Her anger ignited a fire in her stomach that burned hotter than the Custard of Mt. Crèmeatoa. She amused herself with daydreams of revenge, some more morbid than others. She had put forth that thought to her co-worker, and he agreed completely. This was one time the two were forced into this punishment where they didn’t spend all day yelling at each other. Small-talk did help the job go by a bit faster. “Hey, Pointy Hat, y’know the first thing I’m gonna do when we get home?” She called down to the conveyor belt. “Something related to treasure, I’m sure…” He replied flatly. “Well, yeah, maybe that too. But first I’m gonna run a bubble bath, maybe two… I don’t care if I get soggy, Mama’s getting her some me-time,” Chili Pepper said. “Self-care is important, but baths come with timers and automatic drains for a reason, Chili Pepper.” The thief waved her hand dismissively, “Yeah, yeah, you don’t need to cite the statistic of how many Cookies have crumbled in their bathtubs, Wizard Cookie. Ugh… Finally!” Chili Pepper said, as the vat drained for the final time. “Woo! And we are done! Phew!”

Chili Pepper stretched her sore arms as she walked over to a small container on the side of the platform she stood on. She opened it to reveal two water bottles. She picked up one, popped the lid, and downed the drink as if her life depended on it, the very last few drops she poured over her head and rubbed on her face in an effort to cool off. Even with the right protective gear, working near an active Volcano was unpleasantly hot. “You know, Wizard Cookie…. I’ve been thinking…” She heard a thud and a groan. “Wizard?” She looked down to see Wizard Cookie had collapsed to the ground and was moaning slightly. She gasped, “Wizard Cookie!” She grabbed the other bottle of water from the container and slid down the ladder of her platform. She hit the ground running and shoved aside the small group of Cremlins that had gathered around the fallen Cookie. Chili Pepper knelt down and carefully lifted Wizard Cookie’s head, placing it on her lap as she popped open the water bottle. “Here, drink this.”

Wizard Cookie slowly opened his eyes and placed a hand against the water bottle as Chili Pepper helped him drink. Chili Pepper Cookie helped Wizard Cookie back to his feet. She draped his arm over her shoulder and smiled, “C’mon, let’s go home.” Wizard Cookie slurred an agreement as they walked away from Mt. Crèmeatoa and that dreadful machine. “I don’t know why GingerGrave insists on putting you of all Cookies on Cremlin Making Duty, I mean, as much as I hate it, at least the spice in my dough gives me a bit of resistance to the heat! You’re an Ice Cream Cookie! You’re at risk of heat-stroke from standing in the sun for too long!” Wizard Cookie chuckled softly, “I trust GingerGrave, I’ve known him since I was a kid. Besides, he is the prince of our Master’s future Kingdom,” Wizard Cookie insisted. Chili Pepper scoffed, “If he wasn’t a prince, I’d wring his neck… He knows how insanely dangerous this job is for you!” Wizard Cookie waved his hand dismissively. “Oh, I don’t blame GingerGrave. It’s that Goody-Goody Dark Wizard’s neck I’d like to wring. Him and his stupid cat!” Chili Pepper nodded in agreement. Wizard Cookie let out a dramatic moan, “Oh… We had that artifact in our hands! It could have been the very thing we needed to bring back Bitter Truth Cookie! And now… Not only are we back where we started, but GingerGrave thinks we’re idiots!”

“Doesn’t GingerGrave think everyone’s an idiot?” Chili Pepper Cookie said. “Yeah, but now we’re even bigger idiots in his eyes!” Wizard Cookie sighed, “There’s GOT to be a way we can make it up to him and get back in his good graces.”

“And maybe get revenge on those Crumb-for-Brains Cookies,” Chili Pepper added. “One thing at a time, Chili Pepper Cookie. When we get home, I’ll head to the library. I’m going to research any and everything relating to the Five Ancient Heroes.”

“Don’t you want to get some rest first? The heat made you collapse, dude.”

“I’m fine. Let’s just focus on the task at hand… Restoring Bitter Truth Cookie’s power, and bringing eternal night, TO ALL OF EARTHBREAD!”

Wizard Cookie threw his head back and let out a crazed laugh. Chili Pepper Cookie just watched him for a moment, before she began chuckling, and soon, laughing along with him. Their laughter rang through the air, so loud it could be heard from the castle that was floating in the sky above Mt. Crèmeatoa.

Chapter Text

Licorice Cookie wandered through town with a few magic books and scrolls clutched close to his chest. He tried to find a bench with good lighting to sit down on and begin some light reading, but the park was too noisy. As much as he loved the sound of the kids’ laughter, it was distracting when one was trying to focus. Pancake Cookie would keep flying by and the wind would cause the pages of his book to turn and make him lose his place. He tried sitting outside some of the shops in the market square, but Cherry Cookie had decided to test her new bombs out nearby. While he was practicing his magic, one of the explosions startled him and caused him to send a Shadowbolt into the side of one of the shops. (Luckily, no one was hurt, and the damage was easy to fix with his magic but that’s beside the point.) And then, to top it all off, he ended up almost tripping over the mess of tubes and glass instruments Alchemist Cookie had placed in the middle of the road during another one of her dumb experiments.

He would have lost his temper right then and there had Bat-Cat not been perched on his shoulder. The winged feline purred and nuzzled his Master’s neck with his small nose. This calmed the Dark Wizard down enough to keep him from flying off the handle. Alchemist Cookie gathered up her testing materials as she watched Licorice Cookie stomp away, grumbling to himself. “Don’t get me wrong, I love that so many Cookies have come to call the kingdom home, I do. But it's just so nosy and crowded nowadays! Before when there was just a dozen of us at most, I could go just about anywhere to find someplace quiet to study magic! Now a guy can’t take more than two steps before he runs into somebody!” Licorice Cookie huffed. Bat-Cat nodded and listened intently. Anyone else would have taken his Master’s words as grouchy complaining but Bat-Cat knew better. Licorice Cookie was just venting. It was certainly better than him keeping his frustrations bottled up inside for them to grow and eventually explode. As a Dark Magic user, swallowing his emotions rather than facing them was dangerous. Yes, that meant he felt his feelings a little too intensely sometimes, but it was still better than letting his magic become unstable because of it.

Licorice Cookie sighed and wandered over to the Tree of Wishes. He sat down and opened the book. He could still hear various sounds from around the kingdom, but they were softer now. Too many noises all the time… It was always quiet back in the Witch’s Basement. Licorice Cookie sighed as he tried to read. He found himself reading the same sentence again, and again… And again. He shut the book with a huff. Great, now he was too upset to focus properly. Bat-Cat jumped off his shoulder and landed in his lap, his pet curled into a ball and purred softly, wrapping his purple wings around his body like a blanket. Licorice Cookie slowly began to smile, as he ran his hand through Bat-Cat’s soft fur, he felt his anxiety melt away. Bat-Cat always had a way of calming him down. I guess that’s why most Dark Wizards have pets in the first place. Licorice Cookie sat the book beside him and leaned his head back against the tree. Closing his eyes, he listened to the Blueberry Birds singing above him. He tried to focus on the peaceful and positive things, instead of letting his anxiety-riddled brain overwhelm him again.

He held out his hand and watched as his Dark Magic flickered and danced in his palm, like a small fire made of dark purple light. His heartbeat finally began to slow to a normal pace as a smile crossed his face. As he lowered his hand, he noticed a blank Wish Script sitting beside him. He wasn’t sure what possessed him to do it, but he picked it up. Using his magic to create a shadowy ink and pen, he wrote, “I wish I had somewhere quiet to study magic.” The pen then evaporated after he completed the spell. He didn’t expect the Blueberry Birds to be able to grant such a wish, it just felt nice to have his thoughts down on paper. But he tied it to one of the Tree’s branches nonetheless. (It felt taboo to write a wish down and just discard it.) He picked the book back up and held it with one hand, with the other he continued to stroke Bat-Cat as he purred in Licorice Cookie’s lap. He still wasn’t consuming the information as well as he’d liked to, but at least now his focus was strong enough for him to get through a page without having to reread it.

A Blueberry Bird landed on Licorice Cookie’s shoulder and chirped. He lowered the book again. He wasn’t upset, he was honestly expecting an interruption this time. He looked at the little bird on his shoulder and it stared back at him with its tiny eyes. Another bird landed on his other shoulder with a chirp, then one landed on his head. He was starting to get a little confused. Looking up, he noticed several Blueberry Birds hovering around him. “Uhhhhh… Do you guys want someth—HEY!” Licorice Cookie exclaimed as he was suddenly pulled to his feet. Bat-Cat tumbled out of his lap and hit the ground. He shook his head and looked up to see several Blueberry Birds pulling at Licorice Cookie’s sleeves and hood and chirping loudly. “Hey! Where are we going? Ahhh! Alright! Alright! I’m coming!” Licorice Cookie cried, trying to walk in the direction the Blueberry Birds were pulling him to keep from falling over. “Hey! Get back here with my Meowster!” Bat-Cat shouted, flying after the birds.

The Blueberry Birds led the duo to an edge of the kingdom that was still covered in overgrown foliage. Some of the birds flew into the woods while a few others stayed behind. Licorice Cookie watched the birds as they disappeared into the forest. He summoned his scythe and began to cut back some of the vines. Bat-Cat landed on Licorice Cookie’s shoulder and flattened his ears against the back of his head. They hadn’t explored this section of the forest yet, and there could still be Cremlins lurking in the shadows nearby. Licorice Cookie’s scythe was able to cut back a good deal of the weeds, but he would still get tangled up in the thorns and trip over roots. “Where do you think we’re going?” Bat-Cat asked nervously. “I don’t know, but whatever it is… They’re pretty… Adamant about it. OW! Hey, shoo! I’m coming, I’m coming, hold your horses!” Licorice Cookie said to one of the Blueberry Birds who had decided to tug on a piece of his hair to keep him going in the right direction. The birds never went fully out of sight, Licorice Cookie could see them perching on branches and laying on brush just ahead of the path as he cut his way through the foliage.

The mess of thorn vines and roots finally gave way to a clearing and Licorice Cookie stepped out of the gloomy woods and into the sun. His robes were torn in several places and twigs were sticking out of his hair. He began to shake his head and tug at his gummy licorice locks when he heard Bat-Cat gasp softly. He looked up… And he saw it. He gasped softly as the birds fluttered around him, chirping triumphantly. “Has that… Always been here?” Bat-Cat wondered aloud. Before them was a tower of stone, three stories high, with a purple-tiled roof. It was covered in ivy and wild berry bushes. Moss covered the bottom bricks but the large wooden doors remained clear of blockages or rot. Licorice Cookie looked up at the Blueberry Birds and suddenly realized why they’d brought him here. “You little fellas must have some kind of magic of your own, this place is perfect!” Licorice Cookie exclaimed, smiling at the Blueberry Birds. The birds chirped proudly in response. “Perfect for what, Meowster?” Bat-Cat asked as Licorice Cookie approached the tower. “Just listen,” Licorice Cookie replied as he placed his hand on the handle of the large wooden doors.

Bat-Cat swiveled his ears around in search of any sounds. “All I hear is the river,” he replied. (The tower was quite close to the kingdom’s soda stream.) “Exactly,” Licorice Cookie said, “Peace and quiet. I’d wished for somewhere quiet to practice my magic and lo and behold! The Blueberry Birds have done it again!” The large doors opened with a loud groan. Bat-Cat’s tail wrapped around his leg in worry, his ears lay flat against his head. “Um… Meowster… Are you sure this place is safe?” He asked anxiously. One of the Blueberry Birds flew through the open door and into the darkened room with a chirp. Licorice Cookie turned to his cowering pet and gave him a reassuring smile, “The Blueberry Birds only go where it’s safe. This place likely belonged to the kingdom once, we’re merely reclaiming it. Besides, I’ve always dreamed of having my own private quarters to study Dark Magic. All the greatest Wizards in history had their own secret tower, or castle, or stronghold, or whatever.”

As soon as Licorice Cookie crossed the threshold of the tower the room came alive with light. Candles that lined the walls flickered as the Dark Wizard’s foot hit the floor, alighting with a burst of crimson flame. Licorice Cookie jumped slightly from the sudden change in the atmosphere, but he relaxed upon realizing that the candles were enchanted with a spell he recognized, one that would cause them to light themselves upon sensing his presence. Now that the room was no longer shrouded in darkness, Licorice Cookie and Bat-Cat could see that it was a cozy and welcoming living quarters of sorts. A fireplace sat opposite the door, a couch sat on the right wall with a round wooden table in front of it. Surrounding the table were a few matching wooden chairs, and atop the table sat a flower vase with a bouquet of white lilies resting inside it. There was a bookshelf, a tea set, and a colorful round rug completing the look. Carved into the wall was a stone staircase that curved along the wall up into the ceiling and into the second floor of the tower.

Bat-Cat relaxed a bit at the sight of the room. “Wow, this place looks so nice.” Licorice Cookie chuckled, “And you were worried.” But despite sharing his pet’s feelings that the room did look warm and inviting, he couldn’t shake the feeling that something was… Off. Bat-Cat flew off the Dark Wizard’s shoulder to look around the room. Licorice Cookie heard a chirp and turned to see one of the Blueberry Birds sitting on the rail of the stone stairway. Right, there was still more to explore. He followed the bird up the stairway, placing his hand on the railing and thinking there was something strange about it. But he couldn’t quite place his finger on it.

The stairs led up to the second room of the tower, which appeared to be a kitchen. Cupboards lined the walls, sunlight streamed in through the large windows, a stove and sink sat on one end of the countertops, and a few cooking tools and utensils sat atop the counter. Licorice Cookie heard wing beats as Bat-Cat appeared next to him. “Oh wow! And there’s a kitchen too! Gee, Meowster, this place could practically be a second Cookie House. It’s got all the comffforts of home,” Bat-Cat purred. Licorice Cookie placed a hand on his chin. “Yes… But…” Bat-Cat flew into the kitchen and began to inspect the various odds and ends. He nudged the handles on the sink and a stream of water came from the faucet, “Running water, check.” He flew over to the stove and turned it on. “Stove works, check.” He flew up to the cabinets as Licorice Cookie went behind him to turn off the sink and stove. This is why I never leave you home alone… Licorice Cookie thought to himself as Bat-Cat declared, “Fully stocked shelves! Check! This place is prrractly move-in ready!” Licorice Cookie joined Bat-Cat at the cabinets.

Inside were several jars of jam, one of which seemed to be half-eaten. Now that was definitely weird. He took one of the jars down and popped the lid. The jam was a mix of different colors and smells at once. Digging a small handful out and placing it into his mouth, Licorice Cookie found it to be a blend of familiar flavors. “Mixed wildberry, I think. Homemade too… But…”

“Oooh, let’s check out the top floor, shall we?” Bat-Cat cheered excitedly as he flew up the staircase again. Leaving the confused Licorice Cookie standing there still holding the jar of jelly in his hands. “Made by who?” He said aloud to nobody in particular. He stared at the mysterious jelly in his hands for a moment before carefully placing it back in the cabinet and following Bat-Cat up the stairs. Nothing could have prepared him for what he saw next. Licorice Cookie gasped as the final floor of the tower came into view. It was like something out of a dream. A dream for Wizards like him, anyways. The walls were lined with maps, old and new, of Earthbread and star patterns. Stacks of neatly placed books and scrolls sat on small tables or shelves. A blackboard sat in one corner of the room, and the wall opposite the stairs opened to a balcony where a large telescope sat outside. “This… This is…” Licorice Cookie said breathlessly as he crossed the hardwood floor.

He looked at a bookcase and ran his hand along the spines of the books. History, science, magic theory, personal journals and biographies of some of the greatest Wizards of all time. Beautiful leather and hardback books with titles he’d never heard of. Tomes and scrolls filled with new knowledge and powerful lessons. He picked one off the shelf and admired the curly golden lettering on the cover, flipping it open to a random page, he lost his mind in that beautiful smell. He felt his eyes watering at the wonder of it all, so he quickly put the book back before it could be damaged. “This is beautiful… I think I might cry…” Bat-Cat rolled his eyes, “Oh, come on, Meowster, they’re just books…” Licorice scanned the titles of the books once more. “These aren’t just any books Bat-Cat… These are magic books! And… And this shelf here… It’s all books on Dark Magic! Look! Look! Look! Soothing Shadows: A Study in the uses of Dark Magic in Medicine. Oh and this one! Divine Darkness, this one’s about Dark Wizards who used their magic to better the lives of their fellow Cookies. Oh, and there’s even one here about those who used their magic for their own personal gain, The Fallen: A Cautionary Tale of Banished Dark Wizards. I… Better not let Poison Mushroom Cookie see this one. Some of the pictures are kinda graphic… OOOH! There’s even an original copy of The Importance of Ethics in Dark Magic. The very first guidebook and study on Dark Magic and its positive uses ever written!”

“Yeah, but look what I found!” Bat-Cat exclaimed. Licorice Cookie turned to see him sitting in a small pet bed. It was Crimson and cream colored and Bat-Cat was rolling around in the bed and purring loudly. “Mmmm, it’s so soft. I think it's stuffed with feathers.” Licorice Cookie raised an eyebrow and walked over to him. Bat-Cat flopped onto his back with his wings to the side and his paws in the air and mewed in happiness. “Now that’s something you wouldn’t expect to find in a Wizard’s tower,” Licorice Cookie said rubbing his chin. “This thing is fit for a king, so soft and warm, mmmm, perrrrfect,” Bat-Cat purred as he flopped onto his stomach and began kneading the soft fabric with his paws. Licorice Cookie chuckled slightly at seeing Bat-Cat acting like a kitten and left him to enjoy his new bed. Although he did have to admit it was strange to find such a thing, he was glad it made Bat-Cat happy.

He continued to look over the various tools and kick-knacks. “Just look at all this neat stuff! There’s a rack for storing magic wands and staffs! That telescope out there must be for tracking stars and…” Licorice Cookie gasped loudly, “Oh my gosh… OH MY GOSH! BAT-CAT! Do you know what this is?!” Bat-Cat lazily opened one eye and looked at the device the Dark Wizard was pointing at. “Uhhh…. Nope,” he replied disinterestedly. It was a glass globe with a narrow clear tube attached to the side. A small light sat atop it and the bottom of the device had a control panel with a small screen and several buttons. At the end of the tubing was a cloth cuff. Licorice Cookie was picking up the cuff and sliding it onto his wrist. “It’s a J.E.A! A Jam Extraction Apparatus!” Bat-Cat raised his head slightly, “A what do what now?” Licorice Cookie rolled his eyes, “A Jam Extraction Apparatus, Bat-Cat! It’s a device that allows Dark Wizards to safely and ethically collect and store their jam for spells! Honestly, you’re the pet of a Dark Wizard you should know these things,” Licorice Cookie huffed as he punched a few buttons and the small machine came to life.

Bat-Cat watched as the clear tube was filled with a thick red substance that dripped into the glass chamber. “Uh… Doesn’t that hurt?” Bat-Cat asked. “Nope!” Licorice Cookie replied, watching the machine in fascination. “The cuff is equipped with a special gel that numbs the dough before injection, so the process is completely painless. It also has automatic timers so the user doesn’t overdraw their jam. I’ve always wanted one of these! Imagine all the cool spells I can do with this!” Bat-Cat flicked the end of his tail and rested his head on his paws. In his mind that translated to his Meowster had found a shiny new toy to play with that posed no threat to his safety, so it was nothing for him to worry about. “Wait a second…” Licorice Cookie said softly as something suddenly clicked in his head. “Star tracking tools, a J.E.A, a bed for an animal companion, rows and rows of books on Dark Magic… Bat-Cat… This place wasn’t built for just any Wizard. All this stuff is tailored for a Dark Wizard like me!”

“This place was prrractically made for us! Just think about it, soft beds to sleep in, food in the kitchen. You could just about live here without ever having to leave,” Bat-Cat mewed. The J.E.A. powered down and Licorice Cookie slid the cuff off his wrist. He tapped his chin in thought. “There’s just… Something I don’t quite get.” Bat-Cat tilted his head, “What’s that, Meowster?” Licorice Cookie wandered around the room as if in search of an answer. “This place was cut off from the rest of the kingdom… It was probably built around the same time as the old kingdom but… Why is this tower in such good shape when all the other old buildings we’ve found have been falling apart?” Bat-Cat lifted his head. That was strange. “Maaaaybe, the Wizard who owned the tower before had placed a preservation spell on it,” he suggested. “Then where’s the dust?” Licorice Cookie asked. “A preservation spell would explain why the tower’s still standing but it wouldn’t explain how it's still spotless,” he said, running his hand over a table and picking it up to see it clean and free of dust. “This place is cleaner than my Cookie House,” he admitted. Bat-Cat’s ears flatted against his head, a sense of unease filled the air.

“Not only that,” Licorice Cookie said as he began to pace across the floor, “But there’s half-eaten jelly in the kitchen. Homemade jelly, made from the very same wild berries I saw growing outside… And these books…” he took a few books off the shelves. “They’re from different time periods. This one was written before the Dark Flour War… But this one… This one’s publication date was after.” Bat-Cat curled into a ball and looked around as if expecting the ghost of the tower’s former owner to pop out of the shadows at any given moment. “So… Are you saying someone’s been here?” He mewed nervously. Bat-Cat jumped and yelled in alarm as a pile of books fell over. Licorice Cookie caught movement out of the corner of his eye and slowly went to investigate. “Or maybe… It’s like you said Bat-Cat. We had to cut our way through the forest to get here, so no one has come here since the kingdom fell. But… Maybe, someone never left.”

Licorice Cookie watched as a small creature moved from behind a bookcase, a yellow eye stared back at him, wide with fright. A small round hand placed itself on the side of the bookcase. “Is that… A Cake?” Bat-Cat said softly. The creature was a little bigger than a Cake Hound, and the shape was different, but yes, it was undoubtedly a Cake. It hid in the shadows and slowly moved a little farther out, suddenly grabbing a scroll that was laying on the floor and disappearing behind the bookcase. “Hey!” Licorice Cookie exclaimed and he ran up to where he’d seen the Cake disappear. There was a small space between the bookcase and the wall, it was too dark to see inside, but he could make out the Cake moving some things around and talking to herself. Yes, it was definitely speaking and the voice was feminine. “Oh goodness… O-oh goodness…” Licorice Cookie slowly lowered onto his knees and placed his hand against the wall, smiling in a way that he hoped looked soothing. “Hey,” he said softly. The Cake turned back to him and whimpered softly. “You don’t have to be afraid, we’re not going to hurt you.” The tiny desert let out an uncertain moan. Bat-Cat flew over and landed on Licorice Cookie’s shoulder.

“My name’s Licorice Cookie and this is my pet, Bat-Cat.” The winged feline purred softly, “Is this your tower?” He asked. There was a pause, before the smaller creature replied, “N-not exactly.” Licorice Cookie heard a click, and the small area was illuminated by a string of soft lights that were hung halfway between the floor and the ceiling. He could see her clearly now. A Cake with light vanilla dough and light purple frosting hair with golden highlights. She wore round glasses and a yellow bow in the back of her hair. The space was filled with neatly stacked books and scrolls, a pile of blankets that must have been a makeshift bed, and even a small laptop sitting on a small crate. She turned back to the Dark Wizard and readjusted her glasses nervously. “M-m-my name’s Mothberry Cake, I was… Uh, am… The tower’s bookkeeper. I…I was supposed to be the assistant for the tower’s original owner but… Um… She never… Made it here.”

“Have you been living out here all by yourself?” Bat-Cat asked. “I’m n-n-not exactly a social butterfly. I’ve got everything I need right here so… Yeah.” Mothberry Cake picked up a few scrolls and walked up to the two. Licorice Cookie stood up and smiled at her, “So you’re the one who’s kept the tower in such good shape. That also explains some of the newer books.” Mothberry Cookie brushed a piece of hair out of her face and smiled sheepishly. “Y-yeah, I’m not a Wizard myself, but I’ve always been fascinated by magic. And history… If I ever run out of books I can always just order some new ones online and… The Blueberry Birds will bring them to me,” she said, smiling at the small flock of Blueberry Birds who were sitting on the balcony railing. “But… You’ve seriously been all by yourself for all these years? We started rebuilding months ago, you never thought about sending out a letter or something to let us know of your existence?” Licorice Cookie asked. Mothberry Cake rocked on her feet. “I’ve… Always kinda kept to myself… Even back when the kingdom was first being built I just kinda… Stayed in the tower and waited for the queen to come.”

“Wait… This tower was supposed to belong to the kingdom’s queen?” Licorice Cookie said. “Y-yeah… But she never came because she…” Mothberry Cookie said softly. “Died in the Dark Flour War, yeah. I remember the Sugar Gnomes telling us about that,” Licorice Cookie said softly. He looked down at the little Cake. “Don’t you ever get lonely up here all by yourself?” Mothberry Cake picked up a few more scrolls and walked over to one of the bookshelves. “N-not really. I… I have some online friends in some magic and history scholar chatrooms so…” She began to reorganize the scrolls. “Although… Um…” She turned back to Licorice Cookie. “You’re a Dark Wizard. Would… You like to claim the tower? Like I said, I don’t have magic so I can’t really use this stuff as it should be. I… I’d hate to see all this go to waste for much longer.”

“You’d be ok with that?” Bat-Cat asked. “I thought you didn’t like social interactions?” Mothberry Cake readjusted her glasses again. “Oh, I’m… Ok with it as long as it's on a topic I’m familiar with… Y’know, like… Magic. And I’m sure you’d be able to put all this stuff to good use, you seem like the kind of Cookie who appreciates that sort of thing.” Licorice Cookie smiled and joined her at the bookshelf. “Yeah… That’d be great! It’s nice to know there’s someone in this kingdom who appreciates magic as much as I do. Hey…” Licorice Cookie said, pulling a book from the shelf. “Oh, that’s one of my favorites!” Mothberry Cookie said. “It’s a collection of legends and stories of the Five Ancient Heroes. There’s even a map in there where you can see the Cookie Kingdom, which is rare because for some reason the Heroes wanted to keep the project very hush-hush while the kingdom was being built. I have several theories on why that is… One of them being…” Mothberry’s shy character suddenly melted away as she continued to talk on and on. Licorice Cookie couldn’t help but chuckle slightly at the sudden change in her demeanor. “Sorry… I-I’m rambling, aren’t I?” She said. “Nah, don’t worry about it. We all get like that when it’s something we’re passionate about. Mmmm… I wonder if this has any clues as to where they disappeared to after the Dark Flour War,” Licorice Cookie said, flipping the book open to a random page.

“Good luck with that,” Mothberry Cake said, “They all died trying to destroy the Sonmum Aeternus Curse. The Vanilla Kingdom literally disappeared after the fight! There one second, gone the next, and the Heroes went with it.” Licorice Cookie scanned the pages, “Yeah, but Dark Choco Cookie and several others believe that they’re still alive somewhere,” he replied. “If that’s so, then how come no one’s heard from them for the ten years they’ve been missing? Heck, I’ve been practically non-existent to everyone else for that long and even I’ve got a digital footprint that can be traced if someone ever did decide to come find me.”

“Well, I think Dark Choco Cookie’s not ready to give up on finding his dad just yet,” Licorice Cookie replied. “Wait… His dad?” Mothberry said. “Yup, I’m good friends with the Prince of the Dark Cacao Kingdom, did I forget to mention that?” Licorice Cookie said with a grin. “Shut up! For real?” Licorice Cookie gasped suddenly. “What? What is it?” Mothberry Cake asked. “I think I found something!” Licorice Cookie said, reading over the page again. “Borrowing this!” He shouted, suddenly running to the staircase and flying downstairs. “Wait! What’d you find?” Mothberry Cake called down the stairs. “Something that might hold a clue to where we can find the Heroes! I’ll let you know when we get back!” Licorice Cookie called back. “Bye Mothberry!” Bat-Cat meowed. “Good luck!” She called back as she heard the front door shut downstairs. She wandered over to the balcony and looked out to see Licorice Cookie disappearing back into the woods and heading back toward the kingdom. “He seemed nice,” she said to herself. One of the Blueberry Birds chirped in agreement.

“Dark Choco Cookie! Guys! Oh, there you are! I’ve been looking all over for you!” Licorice Cookie said. He saw his friends sitting and talking to some new Cookies he didn’t recognize. Poison Mushroom Cookie gasped loudly. “Licorice Cookie!” That’s when Licorice noticed the sand and ocean. “Wow, I didn’t know the kingdom had a beach,” he said in amazement. “Yeah, man, where have you been all day? You’ve been missing out on all the fun! Come and meet Dark Choco Cookie’s Almost-cousin, Princess Cookie!” Red Velvet Cookie said, gesturing to a Cookie in a pink dress and pink hair with heart-shaped candy tying up her pigtails. She was smiling and waving hello. “Yeah, yeah, that’s nice… But I’ve got to show you guys something! You’re never going to believe this!” Licorice Cookie shouted, he could hardly contain his excitement. Dark Choco Cookie gave him a look, “What could be more interesting than meeting my almost-family?” He said indignantly. “What about finding a clue to where you can find your real family?” Licorice Cookie said, waving the book in his hands and smiling coyly. Dark Choco Cookie’s expression changed from one of annoyance to one of disbelief. “What?” Licorice Cookie smirked, “I thought that would get your attention.”

“Meowster found something that might give us a clue on where to find your dad, Dark Choco Cookie!” Bat-Cat said, excitedly flapping his wings. Dark Choco Cookie jumped onto the ledge next to them suddenly. Wide-eyed, he exclaimed, “What!? What did you find?!” Licorice Cookie waved the book and smiled, “Just follow me!” And with that, the group made their way back to the kingdom. It wasn’t long before the group was sitting together at a waffle table under the Tree of Wishes. Licorice Cookie placed the book in the center of the table so everyone could see. “I found this in an old tower on the edge of the kingdom. It’s a series of stories about the Five Ancient Heroes, check it out!” He said, opening the book. The other Cookies gasped in excitement and amazement as they saw the colorful illustrations. “Wow! Just look at all the cool stuff they did! Look! That’s when they fought the Dragon of Dragon’s Hill!” Red Velvet Cookie exclaimed, pointing at a picture on the page. “They certainly looked like they knew how to throw amazing parties! Just look at those beautiful outfits,” Pomegranate Cookie said, admiring a picture of a pink Cookie holding up a golden glass and laughing as the Cookies around her danced and sang. “Hey look! There’s my dad!” Dark Choco Cookie exclaimed, pointing at a picture of a Cookie with striking purple eyes standing in the snow.

Dark Choco Cookie’s smile slowly disappeared as he slumped back in his chair. “I miss my dad…” He said softly. Pomegranate Cookie placed a hand on his arm and smiled reassuringly. “We’ll find him, Dark Choco Cookie, I promise.” He slowly smiled back at her. “And I think I know just how we can do that!” Licorice Cookie said, levitating the book and flipping the pages. He placed the book back down so his friends could see. “According to this, after the Dark Flour War, the Vanilla Kingdom mysteriously disappeared. But many of the Cookies who lived there managed to escape before that. Some of the refugees built a settlement in the middle of the Brown Sugar Desert. And to honor the Ancient Heroes, they built several chambers of tribute to them, a place called the Hero’s Gate. Within the chambers are artifacts and treasures from their kingdoms. And tapestries and statues that depict many of their adventures and legends and accomplishments,” Licorice Cookie explained, pointing to a picture of a small town surrounded by sand and large hills.

Licorice Cookie looked up, “Pomegranate Cookie, you once told me that your mirror could see into the past as well as the future, but in order to see into the past more clearly, you needed an object from that time period or event.” Pomegranate Cookie raised an eyebrow, “Yes… But…” She looked down at the picture again and her eyes widened when she realized what he was saying, “Oh, I get it! If they have something from the Dark Flour War I can use my mirror to see what happened to the Five Ancient Heroes that night!” Licorice Cookie nodded, “Bingo! And if we do that, we might find a clue to where they went or what became of them after the war.” Dark Choco Cookie’s eye widened, a smile spread across his face as he chuckled in disbelief. “For almost a decade I’ve searched, but this…” He lifted his head, tears shining in his crimson eye, “This is the closest I’ve ever come. This might actually lead me to him! I might finally get some answers! I might finally see him again!” Red Velvet Cookie picked up the book. “There’s a map here with our kingdom and the Hero’s Gate marked on it, we can use this to find our way!” he exclaimed.

“Then there’s no time to lose, Cookies, onward!” Dark Choco Cookie said, drawing his sword and almost dashing off before Pomegranate Cookie called him, “Dark Choco Cookie! Don’t you think we should pack first? We have no idea how long this adventure will take, and it’s best to be prepared.” Dark Choco Cookie groaned loudly, but turned back to the group nevertheless. “Fine, everyone pack what we need and we’ll meet back here in five minutes!”

“Dark Choco Cookie!” Pomegranate Cookie said, giving the warrior a look. “Fine!” Dark Choco Cookie said, rolling his eye. “Fifteen minutes, but not a second more!” And with that, he rushed off towards his Cookie House. “Someone’s in a hurry,” Schwarzwälder remarked. “I don’t blame him, I’d be excited too,” Red Velvet Cookie chuckled. Chiffon barked in agreement. “This is why I always have a sachel packed and prepared,” Pomegranate Cookie said holding up a light pink bag and placing it on the table. “I’ve got all the essentials, food, water, bandages, friendship bracelet making kit.” Licorice Cookie raised an eyebrow, “Uh… Friendship bracelet kit?” He said in disbelief. “You never know who you’re gonna meet on an adventure, Licorice Cookie. And you never know when you’re gonna need to make something special to symbolize your everlasting friendship!” Licorice Cookie rolled his eyes, “Yeeeeaaaah, I don’t think we’re gonna need friendship bracelets. But I’ll tell you what we will need. We’re going to a desert so it’s gonna be hot. Especially in the middle of summer, so I’m gonna go home and pack some sunscreen. I burn easy,” he added the last part under his breath as he stood up and left. “I’ll pack some extra toppings! Who knows what kinda monsters we might meet on the way,” Red Velvet Cookie said, raising his sword. Chiffon barked and wagged his tail. “And I’ll bring the Shroomies!” Poison Mushroom Cookie cheered. Pomegranate Cookie chuckled, “Yes, can’t forget the Shroomies.”

And with that, each Cookie headed off to their home to prepare for their next great adventure.

Chili Pepper Cookie strolled down the long hallway with a can of soda in her hands, lazily sipping from it as the reached the doors to the castle library. She opened the doors and was met with a blast of cold air. She shivered violently and pulled her bandana over her face. “Wizard Cookie!” She shouted through the fabric. “Oh, Chili Pepper! Good, I was just about to come looking for you! Come see!” The spicy Cookie shut the door with her foot as she entered the massive room. Dazzling white columns and spotless marble floors, rows upon rows of bookshelves as far as the eye could see. Blue tapestries hung from the wall in between the large windows, the sun that streamed in through the windows was magnified as it bounced off every shiny surface. The castle definitely lived up to its name, and Chili Pepper had always loved living where she could be surrounded by shiny and sparkly things for most of her life.

She found Wizard Cookie sitting at a desk that was covered with papers and books. But at that moment, he didn’t have his nose in a book or was scribbling down on a sheet of paper. He was tapping away at a laptop, which was unusual for him. He’d always preferred doing his research from books, he’d found them to be more reliable than the internet. Which Wizard Cookie referred to, “A place where anyone can say anything and have whatever nonsense they said be taken at face value rather than going through several fact checks and editors.” But Chili Pepper Cookie supposed being desperate made Cookies do crazy things, and desperate they certainly were. She remembered during breakfast that morning GingerGrave had seemed especially cold. Normally he’d just ignore everyone and stare off into space but she caught him giving her a look every now and again. She tried her best to ignore it but she could feel his disapproving dead eyes boring into her. As she was about to leave the Dining Room, he stepped in front of the doorway and glared at her. He made her suffer his silent unnatural eye contact for several minutes before he finally spoke.

“Don’t disappoint me.”

Those three little words carried a much more sinister message than they implied. She had already been squirming on the spot from his torturous silent treatment but now she felt nauseous. He turned and disappeared down the hallway, his black cloak fluttering behind him like a veil of death. Wizard Cookie was right, they had to find a way to get him off their backs. She didn’t think she could suffer much more of being under the Broken Prince’s magnifying glass. She shivered, whether it was from the room’s temperature or from the memory she wasn’t sure.

She placed one hand on the table and looked at Wizard Cookie, “Please, tell me you found something,” She moaned softly. “I’ve struck gold, Chili Pepper Cookie! Take a look at this!” Wizard Cookie said, turning the laptop so Chili Pepper Cookie could see the website he was looking at. Chili Pepper scanned the screen and took another sip of her soda. “Hero’s Gate?” she read aloud. Wizard Cookie nodded. “During my research, I’d realized that we’ve been searching in places that were established before the Dark Flour War. Since that hasn’t been working, I decided to look up places that were built after,” he explained. Chili Pepper gave him a look. “That doesn’t make any sense…”

“Maybe, but your brain works differently when you’re running on two hours of sleep, heat stroke, and a piece of toast,” he replied. Chili Pepper rolled her eyes, she could make a snarky remark about the temperature of the library, but she knew he’d done that on purpose. She hoped his ice cream had refrozen by now. “According to this travel website, this place was built by refugees of the Vanilla Kingdom… Aaaaaaaand, they gathered a bunch of artifacts from the four kingdoms and placed them in a secret chamber to honor them. There’s bound to be something there we can use.” That got the spicy Cookie’s attention. “All four of ‘em, eh? Would that include the Golden Cheese Kingdom? I hear that place is famous for its wealth. Everything is made out of gold!” Wizard Cookie rolled his eyes, “Tell you what, we find something we can use to summon our Master’s consciousness back from the Void, and I’ll let you bring home a few… Souvenirs… Deal?” Chili Pepper grinned like a Cheshire cat. “Deal!” The two fist-bumped and began chuckling wickedly as their plot fell into place.

Chapter Text

“Guys! Come on!”

Dark Choco Cookie lead the group as they ran down the path through the kingdom. Everyone had finished packing and were heading off on their next great adventure. Although the rest of the group was having trouble keeping up with the prince. “Dark Choco Cookie, slow down!” Licorice Cookie shouted, already out of breath. “Wait for us!” Poison Mushroom Cookie called. Licorice Cookie was starting to get winded. “Can’t… Run… Like this… Much… Longer…” Schwarzwälder noticed his Cookie faltering, and he noticed Red Velvet and Chiffon running ahead of them and the other Cookies and got an idea. Licorice Cookie didn’t even have time to register what was happening before the Werehound had gotten down on all fours and headbutted him into the air. The Dark Wizard yelled and landed on the Werehound’s back with an “Oomph!” Despite this, his thick frosting fur made it a surprisingly soft landing. He shook his head and growled as he tried to get his bearings about him. “Schwarzwälder! What in Darkness’ name do you think you’re doing!?” the Dark Wizard shouted indignantly. “Leave this to Choco Werehound Brute!” Schwarzwälder exclaimed rising back to two feet, forcing Licorice Cookie to scramble for a hold to keep from falling off. He grabbed onto the Brute’s horns and lay across his Cake’s head.

Schwarzwälder howled loudly and shouted, “Look out Earthbread! Here we come!” and with that, he charged to the front of the group again. Licorice Cookie swallowed his nerves and squeezed his eyes shut. But once he’d gotten used to (and even comfortable in) his riding position, the wind in his hair began to feel exhilarating. Even though he could feel the world rock with every pounding step Schwarzwälder took, the softness and sweet smell of his thick fur were soothing. It was an odd combination of comforting and frightening. Bat-Cat flew next to the two and purred approvingly. “Meerrr, good thinking, Choco Werehound Brrrute. This way Meowster can keep his energy up if we need his magic in battle!” the winged feline exclaimed. “And we’ll get there much faster!” Schwarzwälder added. Red Velvet Cookie ran beside the Werehound, “Are you sure you won’t get tired carrying Licorice Cookie all the way?” he chuckled. “Nope! He’s super light. Like… Concerningly light. Do you even eat?” Schwarzwälder asked his Cookie in a worried voice. “Not when he’s got his nose in a book,” Bat-Cat said softly. “HEY!” Licorice Cookie exclaimed, his cheeks turning a slight pink. “You two are free to change the subject at any time you know!” The rest of the group just laughed. Licorice Cookie huffed and shifted his weight. He wasn’t exactly sure he was comfortable with Schwarzwälder carrying him like this, but he had to admit it was a lot easier than trying to keep up with the faster members of his team. And the ride was surprisingly comfortable, so he decided not to press the issue and just let Schwarzwälder do his thing.

Dark Choco Cookie’s heart was lighter than it had been in years. For years he searched aimlessly, wandering from place to place, following every whispered rumor and crazy idea for the tiniest clue as to where his father could be. But this was different, this felt real. This was a solid clue that could lead him to be reunited with his family. He was so caught up in his thoughts, mulling over what he would say to his father when he finally saw him again, that he didn’t hear Healer Cookie shouting at him. And he almost didn’t have enough time to stop when he saw the blind Cookie jump in front of him, arms outstretched shouting, “Stoooooop!”

Dark Choco Cookie skidded to a stop, kicking up dirt as he slid. His friends almost bumped into him as they tried to stop in time as well. Healer Cookie winced as he felt air blow past him and dust settle on his robes. The other Cookies panted as the shock of the near-collision died down. Once Healer Cookie could tell the world around him was still again he looked over his shoulder and smiled. “It’s alright, Ermine. It’s safe now.” Red Velvet Cookie leaned over and craned his neck to see a Cake Wolf and three small Cake Wolf pups cowering under their mother. The Cafe Wolf huffed and nuzzled her babies to comfort them. Soon the puppies were following behind their mother with Healer Cookie leading the way. Red Velvet noticed the Mother Wolf’s front paw was bandaged and she was walking with a noticeable limp.

The Cookies couldn’t help but giggle at the sight of the tiny pups scampering about while Healer Cookie led them across the path. “Awwwww!” Pomegranate Cookie cooed. “Baby Cakes are so cute!” Poison Mushroom Cookie gushed. “Every Cake is cute,” Red Velvet Cookie added. Chiffon barked in agreement, happily wagging his tail. “Easy now, little ones. This way, this way. There you go,” Healer Cookie said softly as the mother and her babies made it safely across and disappeared into a small hut made especially for Cakes. He turned back to the group. “You all should be more careful! Someone could have gotten seriously hurt! Honestly, I’m blind and I think I’m more aware of my surroundings than you are!” he said scoldingly. “Sorry, Healer Cookie,” Dark Choco Cookie said, rubbing the back of his neck. Healer Cookie sighed, “No harm done, I suppose. Where are you all off to in such a hurry anyhow?” He said, his usual upbeat and cheerful tone returning. Red Velvet Cookie jumped to the front of the group to answer, “We found a clue that might lead us to Dark Cacao Cookie!”

“My father,” Dark Choco Cookie added, “I’ve been searching for him ever since the Dark Flour War, and Licorce Cookie just may have found a way to locate him.” The warrior said, nodding towards the Dark Wizard who was beaming proudly. “How exciting! What sort of clue is it?” Healer Cookie asked. “There’s a monument in the Brown Sugar Desert called Hero’s Gate. It’s a treasure trove of relics and artifacts built to honor the Five Ancient Heroes,” Pomegranate Cookie said, standing beside Dark Choco Cookie, “If we can find something from the Dark Flour War, I might be able to use my magic to see exactly what happened that night,” she said, waving her mirror. “Well, I just hope you don’t run into any more Jelly Worms, or Dragons,” Healer Cookie chuckled. “Yeah, thank goodness you were there when all that happened,” Licorice Cookie said. “Hey… Healer Cookie… Why don’t you come with us?” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked. “Oh… I, haha, wouldn’t want to impose,” the blind healer replied. “Oh, c’mon, the more the merrier!” Pomegranate Cookie cheered. “Besides, Licorice Cookie is right,” Red Velvet Cookie added. “If you hadn’t been there to tame the Jelly Worms and stop the Dragon’s fire, we never would have gotten Bat-Cat back!” Bat-Cat purred and nuzzled Licorice Cookie’s neck.

“And, who knows what kind of dangers may await us in the desert. If something happened to Pomegranate Cookie, we would need an extra healer,” Dark Choco Cookie added. Pomegranate nodded in agreement. “Well, if you don’t think I’d slow you down too much… On account of my… Disability,” Healer Cookie replied, waving his hand over his bandaged eyes. “No need to worry about that, Healer Cookie! Besides, you might get more of your memories back if we run into something familiar!” Red Velvet cheered. Healer Cookie hummed thoughtfully and ran his hand up and down his staff. “I must admit, I haven’t been able to recall anything new since our last adventure. Perhaps… Yes, maybe traveling with you all the way I used to with my old friends is the key to recovering my memories. Very well, I would be honored to accompany you on your quest!”

“Woo-hoo!” Red Velvet Cookie cheered. “Then there’s no time to waste,” Dark Choco Cookie said, drawing his sword and flipping his head so his hair would blow in the wind. “Cookies! Cakes! And everyone in between,” he said, smiling at Red Velvet Cookie. “Onward!”

The hot sun beat relentlessly down on the dry, dusty land below. There was nothing but sand and large rock formations as far as the eye could see. An occasional cactus or patch of dead plant life would pop up here or there, and there were a few small mountains in the distance, but other than that the scenery remained the same. Every now and again a Berrytail Choco Scorpion would cross their path, but the group quickly learned that as long as they kept their distance and didn’t bother them, the local fauna would usually just give them a quick look before scurrying on their way. They’d been walking for less than half an hour but their mouths were already dry. The hot, sandy air burned their noses and mouths wherever they tried to breathe. Their foreheads were thick with sweat and the only sound was the whistling wind, their labored breaths, and the wingbeats and occasional call of Cream Eagles. Poison Mushroom Cookie watched the birds soar through the crystal blue sky, he wondered for a moment if it was cooler up there in the sky, or if it was hotter because they were closer to the sun. Dark Choco Cookie kept rubbing his eyes from the irritation of the sandy wind. The warrior’s intense vigor seemed to have dwindled. While the hope of finding his father was still fresh in his mind, the heat had sapped his energy to the point where rather than leading the pack he was trudging along behind.

Pomegranate Cookie looked up at the prince in worry. “Dark Choco Cookie, are you alright? I know you’re used to traveling in much… Cooler climates.” Dark Choco Cookie simply flipped his hair, “Cold or hot it doesn’t matter, a Dark Cacao warrior can handle any challenge, including extreme temperatures of any kind!” Although I would rather handle extreme cold… he thought bitterly. The heat was the worst part of the trek. Bat-Cat would weave in and out of the group trying to use the wind his wings would make to cool off his teammates. And though the Cookies were grateful for even a second of relief from the unrelenting desert sun, the winged feline couldn’t keep it up forever. Licorice Cookie noticed him struggling to even keep himself aloft, so he clicked his tongue to summon him back. Licorice Cookie removed his hood and let Bat-Cat fly into it to rest. (Well, really he sort of fell into it. He hovered over his Master’s hood before snapping his wings closed and letting himself drop like a rock into Licorice Cookie’s hood.) Healer Cookie had also removed his hood, he was holding onto Poison Mushroom Cookie’s hand to let the little Cookie guide him, but the grip was starting to get uncomfortable for both of them due to the sweat building up between their palms. “Goodness… And you say there’s a town of Cookies who live in these lands?” he asked. “That’s what the map says,” Licorice Cookie said, staring down at the book in his hands.

Dark Choco Cookie smacked his dry mouth. “Let’s try to focus on the task at hand… Not the temperature.” Pomegranate Cookie sighed, “How can we focus on anything else? I can feel my icing melting…” she moaned. Chiffon was panting loudly. “Eh, the Oven was hotter,” Red Velvet Cookie remarked. “Uh-huh,” Poison Mushroom Cookie agreed. “Seriously?” Dark Choco Cookie mumbled under his breath, he wanted to question the statement further but decided against it. There was a reason Ovenbaked Cookies never spoke about the first few minutes of their existence after all. “Perhaps I can cast some sort of breeze spell?” Healer Cookie suggested. “Don’t, you’ll only kick up sand. The best thing to do is continue onwards. More than likely, the townsfolk with have some way of keeping cool in these harsh conditions, so we’ll be able to rest once we get to town,” Dark Choco Cookie replied. “Ugh… I think I have sand in my boots,” Red Velvet Cookie groaned. “Complaining will only make it worse! Now let’s focus on the positives, and our end goal,” Dark Choco Cookie said firmly, the heat making him irritable. “Licorice Cookie, how far until we reach Pilgrim’s Path?” Licorice Cookie scanned the map again.

“Mmmm, let’s see. Have we passed through the Brown Sugar Valley yet?” he replied. “Uh, I don’t think so…” Red Velvet Cookie said, taking a water bottle out of his pack and chugging it. Chiffon nuzzled his Cookie’s leg and whimpered softly, ears laying flat against his head. Red Velvet stopped and bent down on one knee. He cupped his Cake hand and poured the rest of his water bottle into it. He then lowered his hand and allowed Chiffon to drink from his hand. Red Velvet Cookie couldn’t help but chuckle at the tickling sensation. “Try to take it easy with the water, we need to pace ourselves and be as sparing as possible with our resources until we reach the village,” Dark Choco Cookie warned the younger warrior. Red Velvet Cookie only nodded and decided against telling him that he’d already drunk all the water he’d packed. “Oh! Good news, it looks like there’s a soda stream flowing in the Brown Sugar Valley, we can refill our canteens there!” Licorice Cookie exclaimed. “Thank goodness,” Pomegranate Cookie said, levitating one of her own water bottles out of her pack and popping the lid. “What did I just say about...Ugh… Never mind,” Dark Choco Cookie groaned. “How much farther to the Valley?”

“I think I see it just up ahead! Look!” Red Velvet Cookie exclaimed, pointing at two large rock formations with a canyon that led through their path. Licorice Cookie smiled as he looked at the map and back up at the landmark. “Yes, yes, yes, I do believe you’re right, Red Velvet Cookie. Which means we’re almost there. The Valley is the halfway point to Pilgrim’s Path. We just have to be careful not to upset any Cream Lynx dens, according to the book they’re known for being territorial,” Licorice Cookie said, holding the book up so the rest of the group could see. “Oooh! Kitty cat!” Poison Mushroom Cookie cheered. “A very dangerous kitty cat, Poison Mushroom Cookie. They live within the cliffsides of the Valley and use the high ground to pounce on unsuspecting pr–” Poison Mushroom Cookie gasped loudly, cutting Licorice Cookie off. “The kitty cats live in those mountains?” Licorice Cookie groaned loudly, “Yes, but we need to avoid—Poison Mushroom Cookie?” Licorice Cookie turned to see Poison Mushroom Cookie had disappeared, leaving a confused Healer Cookie standing by himself. Licorice Cookie sighed loudly, “Don’t tell me he…” He looked back up the trail to see the small fungus-flavored Cookie running ahead of them towards the Valley, giggling loudly. “Yup, he did,” Pomegranate Cookie said.

Licorice Cookie groaned loudly, stuffed the book into his pack, and took off down the road after the small Cookie. “POISON MUSHROOM COOKIE! Wait for us!” Luckily it didn’t take long for the group to catch up with him. Once they entered the shade of the Brown Sugar Valley there was a noticeable change in temperature. The shadow of the large rocks blocked the sun’s harsh rays and finally gave the small group of desserts some coveted relief. They all breathed a collective sigh as the cooler air hit their dough. “Aaaaahhhh, that feels so much better,” Licorice Cookie said softly. “Does anyone see Poison Mushroom Cookie?” Red Velvet Cookie asked, scanning the area for any sign of their friend. “No, but look! Water!” Pomegranate Cookie said, racing to the front of the group. At the side of the Valley was a soda stream, blissfully bubbling alongside the mountain and winding farther into the valley. Chiffon yipped and scampered over to Pomegranate Cookie’s side and began to lap the refreshing waters. The rest of the group soon joined them as they refilled their water containers and quenched their thirst. Pomegranate Cookie playfully splashed Red Vevlet Cookie and he responded by pushing her into the river.

She resurfaced as the Cake-Cookie hybrid laughed. Her response was to pull him into the water as well and the two were soon splashing each other and laughing loudly. Their contagious laughter spread to the rest of the group as they watched them. After a moment, Dark Choco Cookie and Schwarzwälder pulled the two out of the water. Red Velvet Cookie shook himself off like a Cake Hound. Bat-Cat hid deeper in Licorice Cookie’s hood to keep from getting wet. Red Velvet Cookie and Pomegranate were still playfully teasing one another when a scent hit Red Velvet Cookie’s nose. As did Chiffon’s, whose tail had stopped wagging. Schwarzwälder looked up and growled softly. The rest of the group knew that when the Cakes started acting that way, it was a signal to be on alert. Red Velvet Cookie scanned the rocks above them, he caught movement out of the corner of his eye, and his instincts allowed him to push Pomegranate Cookie out of the way before the assailant could strike her. He felt claws brush by his face, leaving a thin crack beside his eye. The rest of the group took battle stances as a four-footed, white-furred creature spun to face them. Yellow eyes glowered at them, sharp fangs bared and claws dug into the ground.

“A Cream Lynx!” Licorice Cookie shouted. The big cat was three times the size of a Cake Wolf, but that didn’t stop Chiffon from running to the front to protect his friends and barking loudly. Dark Choco Cookie drew his sword, Licorice Cookie started gathering magic, and Schwarzwälder barred his teeth and stomped the ground. The beast still wasn’t backing down. But before either party could make the first move, Bat-Cat shouted, “Wait!” And flew out of Licorice Cookie’s hood. Hovering in between the two groups, Bat-Cat started making a series of meowing noises. The Cream Lynx seemed to understand him and responded with a set of growls and soft grunts. The Cookies stood dumbfounded as they continued this back and forth for a few minutes. Finally, the Cream Lynx gave the group one final glare before turning back and hopping up onto a ledge. The large cat slowly disappeared into the cliffside. The Cookies slowly lowered their weapons. “Wow… What did you say to him Bat-Cat?” Licorice Cookie asked. “I just politely asked him not to maul my friends to death,” Bat-Cat replied simply. “And… That worked?” Red Velvet Cookie said, raising an eyebrow. “Well, sort of. You see this area of the river belongs to his clan, but he did say there’s a spot in the river that belongs to the Cookies of the Village a little farther down the Valley. It’s marked by wooden fences, he said they’d let us pass as long as we took our… Annoying friend with us…” Bat-Cat replied. “What annoying friend?” Licorice Cookie asked.

“Weeeee!” SPLASH

The group turned back to see a Cookie had fallen into the river and was floating on his back and singing. “Float, float, float, along, gently down the stream…” Licorice Cookie wasn’t sure whether to laugh or sigh, “Poison Mushroom Cookie…” The rest of the group chose to laugh. Licorice Cookie walked over to the river and pulled the smaller Cookie out of the water before he could float too far away. “Merrily, merrily, merrily, merrily, we all scream for ice cream!” Poison Mushroom Cookie continued to sing. “It’s ‘life is but a dream’, Poison Mushroom Cookie,” Licorice Cookie sighed loudly, “Honestly, you’re such a handful sometimes.” Dark Choco Cookie looked up at the spot he assumed Poison Mushroom Cookie must have fallen from. “How on Earthbread did he get up there?”

“It’s Poison Mushroom Cookie, the fewer questions asked the better,” Licorice Cookie replied. “That was actually pretty cool the way you talked that Lynx down, Bat-Cat,” Pomegranate Cookie said. “Mee hee hee, good thing I’m fluent in cat language,” Bat-Cat purred. Red Velvet Cookie huffed, “I still woulda liked to sink my claws into him for trying to attack us for no reason.” Dark Choco Cookie placed a hand on the younger warrior’s shoulder. “Now, Red Velvet Cookie. Being a warrior isn’t just about fighting, you know. Sometimes it’s about knowing when not to fight. If a situation can be resolved diplomatically, then choosing to talk rather than fight will often lead to the best possible outcome,” he said softly. Red Velvet Cookie rubbed the sore side of his face with his thumb, “Mmmm, I guess…” He said reluctantly. “Here, let me fix that for you,” Pomegranate Cookie said with a smile, waving her rod and casting her Nature’s Blessing spell to heal Red Velvet’s injury.

Once they were sure everyone was unharmed the reunited group continued down the path. The cooler air lifted the group’s spirits and soon Dark Choco Cookie was back to leading the way with an almost literal skip in his step. He was giddy from excitement over the thought of finding Hero’s Gate and a chance to see his father again. It wasn’t long before he was encouraging the group to pick up the pace using whatever excuse he could think of. “We better hurry,” Dark Choco Cookie said, “It’s getting late and we still have a lot of ground to cover before we reach Pilgrim’s Path.” Suddenly, the prince felt his senses go on high alert as something whizzed past him, almost hitting his good eye. He didn’t even need to see where it landed to know what it was, he recognized a weapon when he saw one, even if it was only for a split-second. In an instant, he drew his sword and held it in front of him defensively. The other Cookies gasped softly as they saw the small yellow dagger planted in the sand behind them. That was too close to comfort, that dagger had almost taken out Dark Choco Cookie’s good eye. Their attention was drawn to the sound of nasaly laughter. “Khya hya hya! Going to Pilgrim’s Path, are we?” Red Velvet Cookie began baring his teeth and growling softly as he saw a small creature standing in their path.

Its skin was olive green with large pointed ears, and beady eyes stared at the group, they could tell he was smiling under the bandana mask he wore and he was tossing another dagger in his hand. The smell emanating from him was like a month-old unwashed sock pile. Pomegranate Cookie gagged softly and covered her mouth and nose to protect herself from the unpleasant odor. Licorice Cookie began frantically flipping through the book for any sort of information that could be useful. “Well, if you Sweetie-meetie Cookies want to pass, you’ve gotta pay the toll!” Schwarzwälder huffed angrily, “Well, you don’t have to go throwing daggers! You could have just said!” Licorice Cookie held his hand up, “Wait a second, Schwarzwälder… I don’t like the look of this guy… Something’s off about him,” the Dark Wizard said cautiously. “How much is this toll anyhow?”

“TWENTY THOUSAND CRYSTALS! Khya hya hya!” The creature snickered. “What?” Red Velvet Cookie cried in disbelief. “There’s no way you actually expect anyone coming this way to actually have that kind of money on them! He’s clearly gatekeeping,” Pomegranate Cookie whispered to Dark Choco Cookie. “Now hold on a second,” the prince said, turning to the green creature. “On whose authority are you collecting this fee?” The green-skinned creature tossed and caught his dagger, “The Ginkgoblin boss of course! We Ginkgoblins run these parts! And if you aren’t gonna cough up your valuables willingly, then I’ll just have ta wrestle ‘em out of your cold, dead hands! Khe he he!” The Cookies took battle positions at the threat. “Ginkgoblins… I’ve heard of this bunch. They’re a nasty lot of thieves and bandits that roam deserted areas like this to prey on unsuspecting travelers,” Dark Choco Cookie said gravely. “What? That’s so mean! How could you do something like that?” Pomegranate Cookie shouted at the Ginkgoblin. “Khehehe, we do what we want, Sweet Cheeks. And I’m warning ya, if the boss ain’t happy ain’t nobody gonna be happy. Like I said, the Ginkgoblins run these parts so you better be smart and just lay down your fancy doodads and scram!” He exclaimed, pointing his dagger menacingly.

Licorice Cookie snorted, “We don’t have time for this. Shadowbolt Strike!” he shouted, pointing his scythe and almost zapping the Ginkgoblin with a blast of electrified Dark Magic. The Ginkgoblin managed to jump out of the way and land with a thud. He growled as he got to his feet, “Oh, so we’re doing this the hard way, are we? Fine!” The Ginkgoblin whistled loudly, and suddenly daggers rained down upon the group from every direction. Loud shouts were heard as more Ginkgoblins jumped from the cliffsides and landed on the sand. Surrounding the small band of desserts. The Cookies had to scatter to avoid being hit, but in their confusion they were quickly backed into a tight huddle by the overwhelming number of the small green thieves.

Chiffon growled and barred his teeth, snapping at any Ginkgoblin that dared get too close. “So much for diplomacy,” Red Vevlet Cookie whispered to Dark Choco Cookie. The elder warrior shushed the younger. “Poison Mushroom Cookie, you know what to do,” Licorice Cookie whispered to the smaller Cookie. Poison Mushroom nodded and turned back to the Ginkgoblins, “Ok, ok!” he shouted, “We give up!” he said throwing his hands in the air and waving them around. He tried to keep a straight face as the Ginkgoblins lowered their weapons, “Now that’s more like it, fork over whatever you’ve got in your pockets and maybe… Maybe, we’ll let y’all go with the shirts still on your backs.” The other Ginkgoblins chuckled cruelly in response. “Ok, if you say so then…” The other Cookies were having trouble keeping back their laughter. Some of the Ginkgoblins were starting to catch on to the weird looks on their faces. But before anyone could alert the leader to the feeling of something being off, Poison Mushroom Cookie shouted, “Have a Shroomy!” and threw dozens of his signature Mushrooms into the crowd of thieves. They exploded and filled the valley with a thick purple haze.

Most of the Ginkgoblins were wearing scarves or bandanas so they weren’t affected by the toxins, but the thick violet smoke made it impossible to see. They were soon running about in a confused daze, bumping into each other and shouting. The shouts got louder when one started screaming in pain. Chiffon had bitten into his leg and refused to let go. Red Velvet Cookie appeared from the mist and stuck down a few more with his Cake Hand, Schwarzwälder threw a couple into the cliffside with his hammer and Dark Choco Cookie rained down crimson lightning upon the Ginkgoblins, with Pomegranate and Healer Cookie covering them with shields made from their magic.

It was a good thing that for the last few months Licorice had been helping the rest of the group build a tolerance to Poison Mushroom Cookie’s shroomies’ effects. He and Red Velvet knew exactly how much of them you could eat without getting ill, and after one had eaten enough of them, they would begin to build a tolerance to the toxins. So now, Schwarzwälder, Pomegranate, and Dark Choco Cookie could move within the cloud of toxins without getting double vision or seeing stars. The haze was still thick and hard to see through, however, so the Cakes relied on their sense of smell and the warriors relied on their training to tell them where their enemies were. Bat-Cat’s echolocation alerted Licorice Cookie to whenever a Ginkgoblin would try to sneak up on him and he could block the attack with his scythe.

Once the initial confusion died down, the Ginkgoblins only felt anger. Some of them with sharpshooters started shooting blindly into the haze. The one Chiffon had bit managed to throw the small Cake off him, a few more stomped on the little Cake Hound, and Chiffon let out a yelp of pain. Big mistake. A pair of mismatched eyes glowered at the thieves as they continued to kick the little Cake around, suddenly one of the Ginkgoblins was knocked back and he found himself staring up at bared teeth and a large claw at his throat. The other Ginkgoblin tried to throw a dagger at the Cake-Cookie hybrid, but Red Velvet turned with lightning speed and caught the dagger in his Cookie hand. The two Ginkgoblins stood frozen as the hybrid continued to growl. With a snarl, Red Velvet Cookie dug into the clothes of the Ginkgoblin he had pinned to the ground and lifted him into the air. The Goblin let out a yell as he was thrown through the air and landed on top of the other one, despite the latter's best attempts to run away. The two lay in a crumpled heap, moaning in pain as Red Velvet Cookie rushed over to Chiffon, who was shaking himself off. “You ok, Little Buddy?” Chiffon hopped and barked, his wagging tail reassuring his Cookie that he was A-ok.

Some of them were blown back and starting to retreat, it only took one hit from Schwarzwälder’s hammer or from Dark Choco’s Cookies sword to decide that enough was enough. The ones who remained to fight yelled after them, calling them traitors and cowards and threatening to tell the boss on them. The persistent ones continued the onslaught as the spores died down. They could see their enemies clearly now, but their numbers had been reduced to almost half. This was never how it happened. Usually, when they outnumber a group of travelers they always manage to overwhelm them, these guys… These weirdos were different.

They decided to avoid the warriors and pick off the weakest ones instead, maybe they could still get away with a few goods and most of their dignity intact. So they zeroed in on Healer Cookie, Pomegranate, and Licorice Cookie. A few ran towards the blind healer, they didn’t expect him to be able to move so fast, so as they divebombed him most of them ended up on the ground with a faceful of sand, as Healer Cookie slid out of the way. Some of them started screaming from the pain of the grit getting in their eyes. Healer Cookie scoffed, “I’d feel sorry for you all if you didn’t deserve it. Don’t you know when you do bad things bad things happen to you?” he said scoldingly. The Ginkgoblins turned back to him, growling. Having the Cookie scold them like children only added insult to injury. “Hey! No one asked you for a life lesson, grandpa!” One of them snorted. Healer Cookie stiffened, “Am I supposed to take that as an insult? You think just because I’m old and blind, I’m feeble… Is that it?” The Ginkgoblins snickered, “Come on, fellas, what’s he gonna do? Wack us with his old man stick?” Healer Cookie snorted, “Hump, someone ought to teach you all some manners, well then… In that case.” With a wave of his wand, he summoned a spell that commanded the wind to spin about his enemies, this created a small tornado that picked up the Ginkgoblins and threw them across the Valley. As the wind died down and their yells faded Healer Cookie chuckled and said, “Maybe that will teach you to respect your elders.

Licorice Cookie could see the Ginkgoblins slowly approaching him on the edge of his vision. But he pretended like he didn’t. He let them get closer. He pretended he didn’t hear them chuckling to themselves, he shifted his weight in preparation for the spell, the shadows alerting him of his enemies' movements. Closing his eyes, he found he could see them better as the energy around him began to buzz as he summoned his magic. One of them lunged, and his eyes flew open as he swung his scythe. The Ginkgoblins were blown back by a blast of purple lightning. One of the Ginkgoblins landed with a thud, she was hurting all over from the sensation of electricity coursing through her body, but there was something else. She raised her hand to her cheek and as she pulled back, she saw it was wet with blood. She turned to see a small creature appear from the black clouds the lightning had created. Purple eyes stared back at her and a small bone dagger in her hand. Two more just like her were forming from the clouds of magic and the Dark Wizard was giggling like a madman. “Wha… What are those?” One of the Ginkgoblins stuttered.

“Allow me to introduce my faithful servants!” Licorice Cookie exclaimed, the triplets squeaked and waved their daggers. Licorice Cookie couldn’t help but smile, that was the first time he’d ever used the summoning spell in an actual battle. Up until a few moments ago, his minions had been at the Kingdom waiting for their Master to call on them. He was worried the spell might not work at such a distance, but it did and he was proud of himself for being able to do it successfully on the first try. The Licorice minions pushed the Ginkgoblins back, and Licorice Cookie nodded approvingly. He looked around at his friends. Red Velvet and Schwarzwälder were doing just fine holding their own and Poison Mushroom Cookie was comically chasing a Ginkgoblin around with a Shroomy in his hands. Then he felt a change in the air, he turned and saw something that made him shout for Bat-Cat.

Pomegranate Cookie was watching Dark Choco Cookie fight back a small group of goblins. Even without her shields, he was holding his own quite well. But she’d seen enough fights to know how quickly the tide could turn, so she kept her rod up just in case one of them managed to get too close to landing a blow. But she was so focused on watching him that she didn’t notice one of the Ginkgoblins approaching her until it was too late. Her rod was knocked from her hand and she was pushed to the ground, she tried to yell for help but she found a thick and foul-smelling cloth covering her mouth with the Ginkgoblin standing on top of her. “This is what happens when you mess with us, little Missy,” he said. Pomegratne Cookie tried to thrash about to throw him off her but he had overpowered her. Her arm was pinned awkwardly to her side so she couldn’t reach into her robes to retrieve her mirror. She gagged as the cloth was stuffed father into her mouth and tears involuntarily filled her eyes from both the pain of having the rough fabric forced down her throat and the vile smell that invaded her nose.

“Hey! Stinky!”

The Ginkgoblin looked up to see a white blur approaching him. That was the last thing he could remember before his face was covered by a mess of fur and sharp claws started digging into his face. The Ginkgoblin stumbled back and screamed in pain as the tried to pull Bat-Cat off him. But the winged feline only hissed as he continued to leave long gashes down the goblin’s face, determined to maul him beyond recognition for hurting his friends. The Ginkgoblin’s face felt as if it was on fire and the pain only worsened as the winged feline continued his onslaught, scrapping both his front and back paws through his skin and digging into his hair. “GET IT OFF! GET IT OFF! GET IT OOOAHAHAHFFFF!” The Ginkgoblin sobbed as he stumbled over a pile of rocks and fell over. Bat-Cat finally let go and flew back to his Master. Licorice Cookie held his arm out the same way a Birdkeeper would welcome back their trained eagle. Bat-Cat landed on his arm and walked it over to his shoulder, where he purred in pleasure as Licorice Cookie rewarded the small pet with a scratch behind the ears.

The last few remaining Ginkgoblins were groaning in pain and struggling to their feet. The group of Cookies still stood with their weapons at the ready and grinning triumphantly, “Give up?” Red Velvet asked, raising his sword so that the light would hit the crimson gemstone. The Ginkgoblin who had first intercepted them looked around at his fallen companions. Their clothes were torn, their weapons were either lost in the sand or damaged, one guy was curled into the fetal position, holding his hands to his face, and crying like a baby. He looked back at the Cookies and sighed in defeat. It would be suicide to keep going like this. “Fine,” he groaned, “You smucks win.” This was a cue for the other Ginkgoblins to retreat, but before he left the first decided to save what little dignity they had left. He pointed his dagger at the group of desserts and growled, “But you haven’t seen the last of us! I’m gonna tell the boss all about ya! And he’ll make you rue the day you ever crossed the Ginkgoblins!” And with that, they disappeared into the desert. The Cookies watched until they were certain the bandits had gone before they allowed themselves to lower their weapons.

“Is everyone alright? Is anyone injured?” Healer Cookie asked. Red Velvet Cookie picked up Chiffon and cradled him close to his chest, “I… Don’t think any of us are too worse for wear,” he replied. “What about Pomegranate Cookie?” Licorice Cookie asked. He turned to see Dark Choco Cookie kneeling next to Pomegranate Cookie and gently pulling the rag from her mouth. She gasped loudly as her airway was freed and started coughing. Her mouth felt dry and her cheeks felt wet. “Are you alright?” Dark Choco Cookie asked her, gently rubbing her back. She tried to restore her smile as she nodded, “Yeah… I’m… I’m okay.” Poison Mushroom Cookie hugged her tightly. “Phew, I sure hope we don’t run into those guys again,” Licorice Cookie said, nervously watching the horizon line they’d disappeared into. Dark Choco Cookie hummed softly, “I hope so too, but I doubt that will be our last meeting, especially if what that scoundrel said was true and that their kind have some sort of hold on these lands,” he said gravely. Red Velvet Cookie spun his sword and planted it into the dirt next to him. “If we do see them again, we’ll be ready for them!” Chiffon barked in agreement. Dark Choco Cookie stood up and smiled, “Let us remain vigilant so we can be. With that out of the way, let us return to our journey. Licorice Cookie, was the map damaged in the fight?”

Licorice Cookie waved his hand and the book appeared in a puff of smoke, “Nope! Kept it in my personal pocket dimension for safe keeping once the fight started!” He replied, proud of his cleverness. “You have a personal pocket dimension?” Pomegranate Cookie asked. “Any Wizard worth their sugar has a pocket dimension where they store their important stuff in. I can just summon it back whenever I want it. And speaking of summoning, you three need to head back home in case I need you again,” Licorice Cookie said to his minions, lifting his scythe. But one of his minions ran up to him and hit the bottom of his scythe, causing him to lose his grip on it and the spell to fizzle out. Liciam started squeaking argumetively. “Wha… No, you guys can’t… Ugh! We talked about this! I’ll summon you if I need you and only if. It’s safer if I just call you three on a need to biases.” The triplets all squeaked loudly, the other Cookies weren’t sure what they were saying but the message was clear from Licorice Cookie’s reaction.

He facepalmed and let his hand slide down his face. “UGH! FINE!” He shouted, “But just stay close, alright? I don’t want you three to lose your weapons or get separated again.” The triplets cheered in Licorice language. He opened the book and flipped to the map, “It’s not far, come on, once we get to town we can plan our next move,” the Dark Wizard said to his friends. “You got it!” Red Velvet Cookie said, giving him a thumbs-up. And with that, the group set off once again, the afternoon sun hanging low in the sky and the rest of the desert ahead of them.

Chapter Text

“It’s a mirage,” Pomegranate Cookie insisted. “No, it’s clearly just a bunch of funny-shaped rocks,” Red Velvet Cookie whispered. “Rocks aren’t that color. The color can only be explained by it being an illusion created by our heat-stressed minds,” Pomegranate Cookie reasoned. “If it’s just an illusion how are we both seeing the same thing?” Red Velvet Cookie asked. “What are you guys even talking about?” Licorice Cookie asked, looking up from the map and glancing behind him at Pomegranate and Red Velvet Cookie, who had been whispering to each other for the last few minutes. “We’re trying to figure out if those things up there are rocks or a desert mirage,” Red Velvet Cookie replied, pointing ahead of them. Dark Choco Cookie looked up where Red Velvet had pointed and his eye widened.

“Those aren’t rocks or a mirage, those are clay huts!” he exclaimed. Licorice Cookie whipped his head in the direction Red Velvet had pointed to see a handful of buildings appearing on the horizon. He looked down at the map and then back up at the huts with a smile, “That’s it! That must be the Pilgrim Village, which means we’re one step closer to Hero’s Gate!” the Dark Wizard cheered. “Then what are we waiting for? Let's go!” Schwarzwälder cheered, scooping up Licorice and Healer Cookie and charging forwards. Healer Cookie let out a cry of surprise and Licorice Cookie laughed at his Cake’s excitement. “Choco Werehound Brrrute! Wait for us!” Bat-Cat called, flying after them.

The group’s excitement allowed the other Cookies to keep pace with the Cakes and Dark Choco Cookie who were leading the pack. Soon the sound of lively chatter and laughter could be heard as the group drew closer to the town. Red Velvet Cookie looked around in awe at every little detail of the desert village. Sand gave way to biscuit-paved roads, and mountains were replaced with clay huts with bright blue rooftops. A few trees with orange leaves dotted the roadsides, offering shade to the townspeople. Children ran through the streets while the adults swept the sand off their porches or chatted by the water fountain in the town’s center. Red Velvet sniffed the air and found it carried the scent of spices. He could have sworn he heard music playing from somewhere.

“My goodness, this sounds like a very lively and friendly place,” Healer Cookie remarked. “These roads are such a relief from the hot sand,” Licorice Cookie added. “What’s that smell?” Red Velvet Cookie remarked. Chiffon and Schwarzwälder were also sniffing the air, “Smells like food to Choco Werehound Brute!” Poison Mushroom Cookie’s stomach started to rumble, “Speaking of food, I’m hungry…” he said softly. “Ooh! We simply must try some of the local cuisine while we’re here,” Pomegranate Cookie said, “I make a habit of trying as many new things as I can whenever I come somewhere new.” Dark Choco Cookie cleared his throat loudly. “In case you have all forgotten, we’re on a mission. Let’s just find somewhere we can stock up on supplies, and ask the locals if they can point us in the direction of Hero’s Gate,” the prince said firmly. “Awww, but Dark Choco Cookie!” Pomegranate Cookie whined. “No buts! We can sightsee after we find my father!” Dark Choco Cookie, stubbornly planting his foot on the ground.

“Now, Dark Choco Cookie, think for a moment. We have walked a long way, and it is getting quite late,” Healer Cookie said, pointing his staff to the sky, where the setting sun was starting to dip over the horizon. “It would be dangerous to continue the journey through the desert at night. So I suggest we find somewhere in town to settle down for the night and resume our journey tomorrow morning when we’re well rested.”

“But…”

A chorus of groans and quiet complaints from the rest of the group told Dark Choco Cookie that he was outnumbered on the matter. Besides, looking over the tired faces of his teammates told the prince that Healer Cookie was right. He sighed in defeat, “Oh, alright. I suppose we should focus on finding a place to stay and restocking our supplies,” he said, glancing around at the various side shops and tents that were set up. “Did someone say supplies?” A jubilant voice cheered. The group looked over to see a Cookie in a brown hat and curly brown hair sitting behind a table filled with various bottles and scrolls. “Well, I’ve got everything wanders like yourselves could need! Welcome to our village! You all must be tired after that long trek through the desert,” she said with a wide smile. “You have no idea,” Licorice Cookie said, walking up to the trader and her makeshift shop. The others soon joined him in looking over the Pilgrim Village Trader’s goods. But the thing that interested the group the most was the small piles of Hearty Ryes and bottles of milk sitting to the side. Poison Mushroom Cookie’s stomach growled again.

“May I interest you all in a glass of ice-cold soda?” she asked, offering Pomegranate Cookie a sparkling bottle full of fizzy soda. “Yes, please! Thank you,” the former priestess said, happily taking the bottle from her. Dark Choco Cookie placed his hand on the table, “Do you have anything you can use to clean sand off a weapon? Ours got a bit dusty during an encounter with some—” The trader held her hand up, “Hold on a second, Sweetie… Uh, the soda, by the way, that’ll be a hundred crystals.” Pomegranate Cookie choked slightly. “Ah, Pomegranate Cookie spit it out!” Licorice Cookie shouted, which the former priestess quickly did. “It’s nice to tell such things in advance!” he snapped, glaring at the shopkeeper.

“Well, sorry, a girl’s gotta make a living. Also, I can’t sell that now, so you’ll have to pay up,” she said, grinning at Pomegranate Cookie who looked like an animal caught in a trap. “B…b-but, we don’t have that kind of money…” she stuttered. “Who does!? I get this place is a tourist hotspot and all, but you can’t just offer someone something without telling them the price beforehand, that’s entrapment!” Licorice Cookie exclaimed. The trader rolled her eyes, “You’re overreacting. If you don’t have the money then I’m sure we can settle on a trade… That knife of yours for example,” she said, seeing Red Velvet Cookie’s sword that he had strapped to his back. “Huh?” The Cake Cookie said, instinctively taking a step back and placing his Cookie hand to his sword defensively. “The gemstone on it looks like it could fetch a hefty price. That ought to cover it.” Dark Choco Cookie glared at the shopkeeper, she did not just suggest a warrior like Red Velvet Cookie use his weapon in a simple transaction. A warrior’s sword was not just a good that could be traded willy-nilly, it was practically an extension of themselves. A symbol of honor. A piece of their soul. But clearly, this trader didn’t see anything other than its monetary value.

“I… I don’t think…” Red Velvet started to say when he was cut off by another Cookie suddenly appearing and grabbing a bottle of soda off the table. She turned her back to the shopkeeper and rested one elbow on the table, chugging the soda with her other hand. “Um… Miss… You have to pay for that,” the shopkeeper said. The Cookie ignored her and continued drinking. “Um, excuse me!” The trader shouted. The Cookie finally finished her drink with a sigh and slammed the bottle back down on the table dramatically, causing the other goods on the table to rattle from the force of impact. The shopkeeper jumped back slightly in surprise. The Cookie’s face was hidden by her wide-brimmed hat, and when she spoke a voice with a thick accent commanded the attention of everyone present.

“Sounds like ya got yerself a price hiking scheme goin’ on here.”

The trader froze, she recognized that voice. The Cookie lifted her hat to reveal a pair of striking green eyes, a mess of blond hair, a face dotted with freckles, and a scowl that was chewing on a piece of wheat stuck between her teeth. “How many times have I told you to stop takin’ advantage of the poor saps that come into town? Just look at ‘em! They’re tired, they’re dirty, they’re half-dead from dehydration and here you are trying to swindle them out of their belongings like some common criminal.” She shifted her weight so that the golden star pinned to her shirt would hit the light just right. It glittered golden in the dying sunlight. “And ya know I don’t take kindly to criminals in ma town.” The shopkeeper’s face twisted in anxiety, you could almost see the sweat rolling down her face. “Um… Um…” she stuttered. “Oh, come on, Sheriff, you know a girl’s gotta make a living!”

The freckle-faced Cookie tapped the empty soda glass against the table contemplatively. “And how much profit do you think yer gonna lose if I took you down to booking and had ma deputy throw you in the slammer for the night?” The trader froze. “If you’re gonna make a living, make it honest. Two hundred coins for a bottle sounds about fair, don’t it?” The trader let out a deep groan, “Fine…” she huffed. “Two hundred coins for the soda.” Pomegranate Cookie sighed in visible relief. Red Velvet Cookie began to dig into his pockets for some coins when the blond-haired Cookie placed her hand on his to stop him. He paused and she smiled at the Cake-Cookie hybrid. “Oh, I meant for ma glass, Sugar.'' She then turned back to the trader. “I think you should let these poor weary travelers sample some of your goods free of charge, for their troubles,” she said with a toothy grin. The shopkeeper was visibly seething now. “Or… I could turn you in…” the Cookie said, her hand hovering over her pistol that was strapped to her waist. The shopkeeper's annoyance turned to anxiety again and she relented. Giving each of the Cookies and Cakes two bottles of soda apiece, as well as some medical supplies and some clean cloths per the freckled Cookie’s request.

The Cookie then nodded for the group to follow her as she left the disgruntled shopkeeper to close up for the day. “Thanks,” Red Velvet Cookie said, for lack of anything better to say. He was still stunned by how smoothly the Cookie had handled the situation. “No need to thank me, Sugar. It’s my job. The name’s Rye Cookie. I’m the sheriff in this here town.” She said, readjusting the wheat in her mouth and holding out her hand. “My name’s Red Velvet Cookie, it’s nice to meet you.” He took her hand with his Cake hand and shook it. Rye Cookie gave his unusual appendage a once-over but said nothing. She did seem curious but oddly said nothing about it. As if meeting a Cookie who was part Cake was the most normal thing in the world. “You’ve gotta keep an eye out for some of the vendors around here. Most of ‘em just wanna make an honest living but there are a few who like to take advantage of the fact we get a lotta tourists in these parts. For some reason, they don’t seem to care about overpriced goods, but I do. Gotta keep my town fair, after all.”

“I agree,” Dark Choco Cookie said warmly, standing beside his apprentice. “But… Y’all don’t look like the tourist type. What brings y’all to Pilgrim's Village?” Rye Cookie asked. “We’re searching for my father, Dark Cacao Cookie,” Dark Choco Cookie said, “And we believe a clue to finding him may be found in Hero’s Gate!” Rye Cookie’s smile fell, changing to a look of contemplation. “Hero’s Gate huh?” She took the wheat out of her mouth, “Haven’t had any Cookies lookin’ to go to Hero’s Gate in a while. That’s an awful long walk from the Village, and… It’s a pretty dangerous journey,” she said, looking the group over. “Oh, it’s no big deal!” Poison Mushroom Cookie cheered, “We’ve fought all sorts of dangerous things as a team and we won every time!” Schwarzwälder nodded in agreement, “YEAH! We’ve even bested a DRAGON!” he cheered. Rye Cookie chuckled warmly, “A Dragon? Y’all serious?”

“Well, it was more like a pseudo-dragon. It was a Jelly Worm that had been magically enhanced to have the powers of a Dragon,” Licorice Cookie explained. “It was still pretty awesome, though,” Red Velvet Cookie chuckled. Chiffon barked in agreement. “Hehe, well. I sure hope you all aren’t planin’ on making that trip in the dark. Sunset’s just about come and gone. And ya don’t wanna be out and about at night around these parts. Trust me, we get all sorts of shady characters around here.” Healer Cookie nodded in agreement, “Would you happen to know a good place we could rest for the night, Rye Cookie?” he asked. “And maybe get some food?” Pomegranate Cookie whispered. “Pomy,” Dark Choco Cookie chuckled. “What? I’m hungry!” the pink-clad Cookie replied. “I have Shroomies!” Poison Mushroom Cookie said, holding up one of his mushrooms. “I think we’re gonna need something a little more filling than Shroomies, Poison Mushroom Cookie,” Licorice Cookie chuckled.

“Well, as a matter of fact, I do know a place. Why don’t y’all come with me down to Traveler’s Rest just outside of town? I’ll get y’all set up in some rooms for the night and treat ya to some of our signature Pita Bread. Trust me, it’s to die for,” she said with a warm smile. “That’d be great! Thanks, Rye Cookie,” Red Velvet Cookie said, picking up Chiffon and following the Sheriff close behind. “Haha! No need to thank me, kiddo, just doin’ my job.”

The Inn was warm and inviting. The air was filled with the smell of freshly baked bread and the buzz of quiet conversations from all directions. Even though the group was talking to Rye Cookie as she sat across from them, drinking her Rye Juice, Red Velvet Cookie could only focus on the feeling of the food melting in his mouth. The Pita Bread was wet with butter and soft on the inside, but crispy enough on the outside to make a satisfying crunch when you bit into it. Licorice Cookie would pass his Minions bits of bread underneath the table, while Bat-Cat lapped from a small bowl of milk on the table. “The trick is to bake ‘em in butter and garlic, that’s what gives ‘em the flavor,” Rye Cookie said as she watched the small group of desserts moan in delight at her town’s signature meal.

They had been talking for a few minutes over various topics. Why they wanted to travel to Hero’s Gate, how they’d found out about the town, their various adventures and encounters with the Cookies of Night. Rye Cookie listened and nodded her head every now and again. A slight smile on her face. When Rye Cookie heard Licorice mention the names of the Cookies who had kidnapped Bat-Cat, she spit took her rye juice. “Wait, wait, wait, wait… Did you just say, Chili Pepper Cookie?” she shouted, her face twisting into an angry scowl. “Uh… Yeah, why? Do you know— Yipe!” Licorice Cookie jumped back in his seat slightly when Rye Cookie’s glass shattered in her hand. She had been gripping it so hard that the force caused it to break, covering the table in glass shards and soaking it with juice.

Rye Cookie slowly wiped her hand on her shirt, leaned back in her seat, and took a deep breath as she lowered her hat over her eyes. The group sat in silence for a moment as her hot and heavy breaths continued. After a moment of tense and awkward silence, she sighed and said, “Yeah… Yeah, I know her.” She lifted her hat back up and placed her elbows on the table, resting her chin on the backs of her hands she continued, “She’s the whole reason I became a Cookie of the law. You see, when I was younger I was just a humble rye farmer, living off the land and the labor of love that was tilling the ground. It was backbreaking work but it’s what ma family had been doin’ for years, and I took pride in my work. Year after year I’d pour my jam, sweat, and tears into tending to ma crops and every year they got better and better. One year I had what I dared to say was the best crop of golden Rye I’d ever grown in ma entire life.” She chuckled softly, “Dare I say the best crop anyone in ma family had ever grown.”

She closed her eyes, anger creeping back into her expression and her breathing becoming deep and swift once again. The others waited patiently for her storm of emotions to pass, they had a feeling they knew where she was going with this story. “Then the night after harvest, after I’d locked the grains safely in the silo and stayed awake all night in anticipation for the first sip of juice I’d make from the crop… I heard a noise, and went out to check…” She was silent again for a moment, her eyes gazing off into the past, her voice growing deeper and her body trembling slightly. “The silo’s door was wide open, and the inside was as clean as a whistle. Every last grain of my precious rye was gone. Every stack and bag and bale was gone. As if it had vanished into thin air.”

She leaned back in her seat and took a few more hot breaths before continuing, “I searched the entire room in some vain hope that I’d find something, then when I turned around, I saw a symbol over the door. It was a… Kinda like a… Uh…” She started looking around the room, trying to see if anyone had noticed their conversation. Luckily it looked like everyone was still minding their own business, but she decided to play it safe nonetheless. “Hold on… It’s kinda hard to explain… lemme just draw it,” she said digging into her pockets and taking out a pen. She grabbed a napkin and quickly scribbled on it as she said, “I still remember after all these years, that mark’s been seared into my memory like a banding iron on a cow’s hide.” She held up the drawing for the group to see, a few of them gasped softly. Bat-Cat almost choked on his milk and dove into Licorice Cookie’s lap. The Dark Wizard hugged his pet tight. “That’s the symbol of the Blind King,” Dark Choco Cookie said softly. Rye Cookie shushed him and nodded, “That’s right.” She looked around the room once more before continuing, her voice almost at a low whisper.

“That night I ran down to the local authorities to report my stolen crop in hopes of gettin’ justice, and maybe ma hard-earned rye back.” She sadly shook her head, “But when I told them about the mark they got real quiet. And then they told me there was nothing they could do. I remember the Police Chief pointing to a wanted poster hung on the wall, and that was the first time I saw her face.” She gripped the tablecloth between her hands and seethed through her teeth, “Chili Pepper Cookie, may I never forget that name as long as I live. She’s the Blind King’s personal sneak. And because she was protected by being under the service of someone so powerful… The cops weren’t willing to do anything about it.”

She looked off into the distance again, “That’s when I decided to become a bounty hunter. I swore to bring criminals to justice no matter how tough they were or who they worked for. I refused to be a softy like the cops who told me that day that I should just go home and forget it! I decided to become the longest arm of the law that ever lived so that everyone who’d ever been wronged by those criminals would get the justice they deserved!” She exclaimed, slamming her hand down on the table for emphasis, and getting the attention of a few other Cookies in the inn. Red Velvet Cookie nodded in understanding, “You didn’t want anyone else to go through what you did. To have something they love taken from them and be told there was no hope of getting it back,” he said. “And havin’ the ones responsible go unpunished” Rye Cookie replied with a nod, crossing her arms over her chest.

Rye Cookie seemed to suddenly become aware of her surroundings again and looked around at the small audience of Cookies who had started watching her. She waved her hand dismissively and smiled, this seemed to get the Cookies to go back to whatever they were doing before. “Anywho, I got so good at catchin’ criminals that the people of this here village asked if I’d like to stay permanently, and well, long story short that’s how I became sheriff.” One of the waitresses came by the table to sweep up the broken glass and give Rye Cookie a new one to replace it. “Thanks, Sugar. Oh and uh… Just put the broken one on ma tab.” Rye Cookie took out another bottle of her homemade Rye Juice and poured it into her new glass. “I’ve met her face to face a few times, but that Cookie is slipperier than an eel in an oil spill,” she sighed, resting her cheek in her free hand, “She always manages to get away.” She smiled at the small group of Cookies, “But you lot…” she took a sip of her juice, “You actually managed to take back what they stole from you?” Bat-Cat purred as Licorice Cookie rubbed his head.

“Yeah, but to be honest, we didn’t do it alone, we had a lot of help from our friends,” Red Velvet Cookie replied. The rest of the group nodded and hummed in agreement. Rye Cookie chuckled softly, “I knew there was something special about y’all the second I saw you walk into town. There’s something different about you Cookies.” She said, giving the group an approving once-over. “Yeah, most people tend to get that impression when they notice Red Velvet Cookie is part Cake,” Licorice Cookie said, dramatically gesturing to Red Velvet Cookie. “I’m honestly surprised you haven’t asked about that, it’s usually one of the first subjects that are brought up whenever I meet someone new,” Red Velvet Cookie said with a chuckle. “I didn’t want to ask in case it was something complicated, y’know like, coming from a family of both Cakes and Cookies or something,” she replied. “Actually, I’m Ovenbaked,” Red Velvet Cookie replied. Rye Cookie softly chuckled again, “That would explain some things, Ovenbaked Cookies tend to be tough. But even still, I can’t believe you managed to beat…” She looked around the room again, “those Cookies,” she said softly.

“Why are we whispering?” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked. “Yeah, you’ve been kinda glancing around all over the place, is something wrong?” Red Velvet Cookie whispered, his eyes darting around the room in search of whatever Rye Cookie was watching out for. “The Blind King and his followers are kinda a sore subject to the villagers,” Rye Cookie replied. “You see, most of the locals here are refugees from the Dark Flour War. They lost their home after the Blind King invaded the Vanilla Kingdom…” Healer Cookie let out a barely audible gasp. “So don’t bring up any of that around them if y’all can help it. They get kinda depressed if you do.”

“The Vanilla Kingdom,” Healer Cookie said softy, “I… Remember… The Vanilla Kingdom.” Red Velvet Cookie had overheard him and turned to him with wide eyes. “Healer Cookie… Did you remember something?” A wide smile began to spread over the blind Cookie’s face, “Yes… Yes, the Vanilla Kingdom, that was my home!” Rye Cookie started clearing her throat loudly and waving her hand across her neck in hopes that one of them would catch on and get Healer Cookie to stop talking about that subject before someone overheard him. But her efforts were in vain and Healer Cookie kept talking, the other Cookies only listening and smiling as his voice grew louder with excitement. “I remember the bright blue skies and the soft songs of the Blueberry Birds! I remember the warm smell of freshly baked Jellyberry pies and… And the scent of the garden where my friends and I would walk together. The smell of the first bloom of spring, the sound of the children’s laughter as they played in the Castle’s Courtyard.”

“Okay, okay, that’s really really great, Healer Cookie, do you think you can keep your voice down a tad more,” Rye Cookie huffed in annoyance. “No, Rye Cookie, you don’t understand. Healer Cookie lost his memories and we’re trying to help him get them back. This one sounds really important,” Red Velvet Cookie said. “Wait, you said something about the Castle’s Courtyards?” Pomegranate Cookie questioned, “Why would you have been there?” An older Cookie who had been listening in on the conversation spoke up, “Perhaps because everyone was welcome inside the Castle’s grounds, my dear.” Rye Cookie sighed and pulled the brim of her hat down over her face, undoubtedly the conversation was turning in a direction she could no longer avoid. “Our king was a kind and loving ruler,” the Vanilla descendant continued. “He saw his subjects as friends and family. And no matter how busy he was, he always took time to meet with his subjects face to face if they ever needed help.” The older Cookie sighed sadly and shook her head, staring into her drink, “King Pure Vanilla Cookie, bless his dough.”

“Pure Vanilla Cookie?” Red Velvet Cookie echoed. “Hey, Dark Choco Cookie, didn’t you say Pure Vanilla Cookie was one of the Five Ancient Heroes?” The older warrior nodded. “So… If the Vanilla Kingdom was Healer Cookie’s old home, and the ruler of the kingdom was one of the Heroes, then wouldn’t there be some things from Healer Cookie’s old home at Hero’s Gate?” Healer Cookie gasped softly upon realizing what Red Velvet was saying. Licorice Cookie smiled. “It would make sense, maybe if we can find something from the Vanilla Kingdom, it might help Healer Cookie remember something else!” The Dark Wizard exclaimed. “In that case,” Healer Cookie said, standing up and placing his hands on the table. “We must make haste! And make our way to Hero’s Gate at tomorrow’s first dawn!”

Rye Cookie sat bolt upright as a loud gasp rang throughout the inn. All eyes were suddenly on the small group of Cookies. Even Healer Cookie could feel the air grow tense. After a few agonizing seconds of silence, a voice called, “Hero’s Gate?” The small crowd parted to allow an elderly Cookie through. He wore a waffle cone hat and carried a walking stick that thumped every time it hit the ground. As he walked up to the table, Rye Cookie whispered, “Oh no,” under her breath. “You Cookies wish to travel to Hero’s Gate?” The elderly Cookie asked, stamping his walking stick on the ground. The tension in the air was so thick you could cut it with a butter knife. Red Velvet Cookie was the first to respond. “Y-yes sir… You see…”

“NOBODY GOES TO HERO’S GATE!” The elderly Cookie suddenly shouted, pointing his walking stick at the small group. Rye Cookie sighed loudly and tossed her hair back. “Come on, Elder Waffle Cone Cookie! They don’t mean no harm, trust me, I would know if they did. One of ‘em is lookin’ for something to clear up his amnesia with and the other is just tryin’ to find his family,” Rye Cookie exclaimed. “Nobody. Goes. To. Hero’s. Gate.” The Elder said firmly, “You know the rules, Rye Cookie.” The sheriff sighed. “Wait… Why can’t anyone go to Hero’s Gate?” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked. “Those grounds are sacred,” Elder Waffle Cone Cookie replied, “It is a place dedicated to the Ancient Hero’s greatest and most noble deeds! It is not some fancy-schmancy tourist attraction where you youngsters can go to litter and deface the relics and take selfcees!” Rye Cookie sighed, “It’s pronounced selfies, gramps. He’s super old so we all call him Gramps,” Rye Cookie whispered to Red Velvet and co. Dark Choco Cookie cleared his throat, “With all due respect, sir. We are not planning the journey to Hero’s Gate as a fun experience. I wish to enter those grounds in hopes of finding some clue where we could find my father. You see…” Dark Choco Cookie stood up and slowly took his sword from his sheath, and carefully planted it on the floor where all could see.

“My name is Dark Choco Cookie, prince of the Dark Cacao kingdom, and descendant of the Hero of Resolution, Dark Cacao Cookie! And I am on a quest to find my father and bring him back home!” A series of gasps rang throughout the inn. Whispers could be heard from every corner of the room.

“A descendant of the Heros!”

“Is this true?”

“Should we let them go then? If anyone has the right to enter Hero’s Gate is one of the Hero’s family.”

“Quiet!” Elder Waffle Cone Cookie shouted. The inn grew deathly silent. “Surely you know the fruitlessness of your search, my boy. The Ancient Heros vanished along with the Vanilla Kingdom after the war.” Dark Choco Cookie took a deep breath before replying, “I know that is what many Cookies believe. But I still have hope that my father is out there somewhere. I have been searching nonstop every day and night since the war. Please, if you would just allow me and my friends safe passage to Hero’s Gate, I can promise we will show nothing but the utmost respect for those grounds.”

“Is that so…?” The Elder said softly. Dark Choco Cookie nodded. “I swear it on my ancestors’ graves.” Pomegranate Cookie leaned forward. “And that is like, the most serious promise a Dark Cacao Warrior can make, trust me, I’ve been traveling with him for a long time.” Red Velvet Cookie piped up, “That’s something we all promise.” The Elder looked up at the prince’s pleading eye. “Mmmmmm,” he said softly, “Well, if you lot really want to go to Hero’s Gate…” Rye Cookie placed a hand to her forehead. “Here we go…” she sighed. “You must first pass, THE HERO’S TRIALS!” Elder Waffle Cone Cookie shouted, throwing his hands out to the side. The inn came alive with cheers and chants of, “Trials! Trials! Trials! Trials!”

“The Hero’s Trials?” Red Velvet Cookie asked. “Yes,” Elder Waffle Cone Cookie said, resting his hands atop his walking stick. “Those who seek passage to Hero’s Gate must first prove themselves worthy. Only Cookies who wish to follow in the Ancient Heros’ footsteps may tread their path. Only those with the purest of hearts and the noblest of intentions may lay eyes on the treasures of the Heroes’ Kingdoms! If you wish to enter Hero’s Gate, you must first prove yourselves to be Heroes!” The Cookies grew quiet as they processed the Elder’s words. All eyes were on them as the Cookies waited for the newcomers' response. “Oh, come on!” Licorice Cookie exclaimed, “All Dark Choco Cookie wants is a chance to see his dad again! What about that isn’t ‘purest of intentions’?” Dark Choco Cookie turned back to him. “No, Licorice, he’s right.”

“Huh?” The Dark Wizard said, tilting his head in confusion. Dark Choco Cookie readjusted his stance and lowered his head. “If I must first prove myself to be willing to follow in my father’s footsteps in order to find him, then that is exactly what I shall do. My entire life I’ve dreamed of becoming a Hero like him someday, and I cannot call myself a warrior of the Dark Cacao Kingdom if I choose to back down from a challenge.” He swung his sword over his back and smiled, “I accept!” Elder Waffle Cone Cookie snorted, “And what about your friends? If you all wish to travel to Hero’s Gate, you must all partake in the trials. And if a single one of you were to fail a single trial, that would mean you all fail.”

The Cookies looked at one another in uncertainty, until Red Velvet stood up and smiled, “We accept the challenge! All of us!” The Elder seemed a bit surprised by this response. Rye Cookie began to smile. “Um… Red Velvet Cookie… We’re not heroes,” Licorice Cookie whispered to his friend. “Oh come on, Licorice Cookie, we did help rescue all those Jelly Bears from the Cremlins,” the Cake-Cookie hybrid reasoned. “And we did help Spike the Jelly Worm make a new friend,” Poison Mushroom Cookie added. “And we helped the Mother Worm in Dragon’s Hill! That all sounds pretty heroic to me!” Pomegranate Cookie added. “Besides, everything we’ve done we’ve done it together, as a team! And we’re going to face these trials the same way!” Red Velvet Cookie cheered.

“My father taught me that a Cookie’s strength is in their unity, so yes, my friends will be participating as well.” the prince turned back to his friends. “I am eternally grateful for your help.” Pomegranate Cookie smiled, “Oh, come on, Chocy, you really think we’re going to let you do this alone?” Poison Mushroom Cookie excitedly bounced up and down. “Yeah! It’ll be fun!” Schwarzwälder swung his hammer over his shoulder, “We’re gonna SMASH through those trials! Piece of cake!” the Werehound cheered. “Together, as a team!” Red Velvet Cookie cheered. “Well, well, well,” Rye Cookie said, holding up her glass, “I had a feeling there was somethin’ special about y’all. Here’s to yer victory tomorrow, and good luck with the trials!” Rye Cookie said. The rest of the group picked up their glasses and raised them in a toast, excited cheers and laughter replacing the tension that was there a moment ago.

Elder Waffle Cone Cookie slowly backed into the crowd, never taking his eyes off the small group of desserts. He could hear tidbits of conversation from the other patrons of the inn. “I haven’t seen such strong unity since the Five Ancient Heros,” one Cookie whispered. “They kind of remind me of the Heroes. And one of them is the Hero of Resolution’s son. Do you think they’ll really be able to pass the trials?” Another asked. The Elder turned his head to face them, “Even if they can,” his voice became a low whisper, “We must do everything in our power to make sure they don’t.”

Rye Cookie shouted to the waitress to get the small group of challengers another round of drinks, and the Cookies began singing some of the songs Clover Cookie had taught them. A few Cookies came over to talk to Dark Choco Cookie and swap memories of the Vanilla Kingdom with Healer Cookie. (What little he could contribute to the conversation anyway.) Everyone was so focused on the small table of merrymaking friends, that no one noticed the round, one-horned creature outside the window.

The Waffle Wing watched the scene, never blinking its one large eye. After a few more seconds, it flew away into the night. Flying over the town, over the desert, and into a small campsite where a fire was glowing and two small tents were set up. It let out a screech to let the two Cookies know it was there and it flew down to the ground, far away enough from the campfire to keep the heat from melting its soft custardy body. “Well, what do you have to report?” Wizard Cookie asked the small creature. The Waffle Wing made a series of squeaking noises and Wizard Cookie nodded. “Hey, Chili Pepper, guess who’s back?” The thief was roasting marshmallows over the fire, she never looked up from the flames as she asked, “Um…. I dunno, who?”

“That Cake-Cookie and his Crumbs-for-brains friends. That’s who,” Wizard Cookie replied. “What?!” Chili Pepper shouted, dropping her marshmallow into the fire in shock. “Again! AUGH! What are they doing here!? Are they just gonna keep showing up wherever we have a mission and make things a million times harder for us!?!” She shouted, angrily standing up and stomping her foot into the sand. Wizard Cookie walked up to her with a chuckle. “Patience, my dear friend. This is a good thing.” She turned to him with her arms crossed over her chest. “HOW in the Blind King’s name is this a good thing?”

“Because they will be able to lead us right to Hero’s Gate,” he replied. Chili Pepper Cookie raised an eyebrow. “How?” Wizard Cookie levated a new marshmallow out of the small bag of sweets and held it over the fire. “It’s quite simple, our sources have told me that those Cookies will be partaking in the Hero Trials. The townspeople will be so busy watching them, that they won’t notice us following close behind. If there are any traps or dangers along the path to Hero’s Gate, then we’ll just wait for those Cookies the clear the way for us and we just walk right in like we own the place, steal a few artifacts out from under their noses, and return to Brightlight Castle before dinnertime.”

Chili Pepper Cookie slowly uncrossed her arms and began to smile. “Hey, you know what, you’re right! Let those Cookies do all the hard work for us, and before you know it, we’ll be sitting pretty with GingerGrave again!” Wizard Cookie levated a piece of chocolate and broke a graham cracker in half, “Not only that but can you imagine the looks on their faces when they find out they’ve been unintentionally helping us? Hahaha, it’ll be great! We get back on track with reuniting with our Master, and we get revenge on those Cookies in one fell swoop! Win-win for us!” Wizard Cookie cheered, completing his snack by placing the roasted marshmallow between the chocolate and graham crackers. “There’s just one problem,” Chili Pepper Cookie said. “And what would that be, my spicy companion?” Wizard Cookie said, biting into the s’more. “We can’t use any of our Cremlins in the desert. It’s too hot for them! They’d just melt before we had a chance to really use them and if we do have to go up against those Cookies, we’re gonna be seriously outnumbered.”

Wizard Cookie continued to eat, unconcerned. “Sooooooo, unless you’re gonna pull another Jelly Worm we can turn into a Dragon out of your hat or something, we need a backup plan… Or at least some backup of some sort.” Wizard Cookie wiped his mouth with his scarf. “Way ahead of you there,” he replied, whistling loudly. Chili Pepper watched as three figures appeared from the shadows and her smile returned. “No. Way! How did you manage to—?” Wizard Cookie chuckled, “I can be very persuasive, Chili Pepper Cookie. My reasoning can be so convincing that even the Broken Prince couldn’t argue with it. With these,” Wizard Cookie said, gesturing to their secret weapon. “Our victory is guaranteed. HAHAHAHAHAHAAAAHHAHAHAHAHAHA!” Chili Pepper joined him in his insane laughter.

But the three laughed a softer, childish, carefree giggle. As if they didn’t have a care in the world.

Chapter Text

The next day, the group was eager to begin. The townspeople gathered together in the square by the fountain. Whispering excitedly to one another, it had been a long time since they’d had challengers for the Hero’s Trials. And they’d never had a group this big try all at once. Even Rye Cookie was there, smiling at the small group as she watched them whisper among themselves. The stakes were high, but the small band of friends were certain if they stuck together they would succeed. Dark Choco Cookie was in the middle of a speech to psych his teammates up when Elder Waffle Cone Cookie cleared his throat. “Are the challengers ready to begin the first trial?” he asked. “Ready!” The team cheered. “Very well,” he said softly. “So what do you want us to do?” Red Velvet Cookie cheered, “Climb a mountain? Find a hidden treasure? Fight a dragon?!” Pomegranate Cookie sighed softly, “Please don’t let it be fight a dragon…” she whispered from behind her sleeve.

Elder Waffle Cone Cookie raised his voice so the small crowd of excited Cookies could hear. “Only true heroes may tread the path of the Ancients! In order to receive what you seek, you must first prove yourselves to be heroes of purest heart. True Heroes are selfless and are never shy to assist those in need. As such, the first trial is… To do good deeds for the townspeople!”

The small crowd murmured in agreement. Licorice Cookie blinked, “That’s it? Huh… And here I thought it would be something hard,” he whispered to Bat-Cat, who snickered in response. “Meheheh, we’ll have this challenge beat in no time, Meowster.” Rye Cookie stepped up to the group. “Actually, it’s not gonna be as easy as y’all think. The first trial isn’t over until sunset, that means y’all will have to work from dawn ‘till dusk without stopping. If a single one of y’all lets up or refuses to help, yer out of the Trials,” she explained. The group looked at one another, ok, now it made sense why it was a challenge. “Well… There I’m sure we can do it if we work together! Right, guys?” Red Velvet Cookie replied. The others nodded in agreement. “It’s a suitable challenge to test one’s mantle as a hero, after all, a hero’s duty is to help others,” Dark Choco Cookie said approvingly, he then turned to the crowd, “So, who here is in need of assistance?”

The crowd of Cookies responded with various requests. “Oooh! I could use help cleaning out my garage!” One Cookie shouted. “The stove in the Traveler’s Rest is making a strange noise if any of you have any experience with that sort of thing,” another added. “Could someone watch my little one for an hour so I can get some sleep?” A tried mother Cookie with a freshly baked baby in her arms asked. (Poison Mushroom and Pomegranate Cookie jumped at that request excitedly.) “Buy some sand?” A short Cookie in a tan hood asked, suddenly appearing next to Licorice Cookie, startling the Dark Wizard. “Ahh! Wait… Do what?” He asked the Cookie. “Buy some sand… I’m in the sand market, best sand in all of Pilgrim’s Village!” The curly-haired Cookie replied, lifting the side of his cloak to reveal several pockets with glass vials of sand inside.

Licorice Cookie gave the Cookie a look. “If I say no would that count as refusing to help someone?” He whispered to Rye Cookie. The sheriff chuckled warmly and shook her head in response. “No, declining an offer from a salesCookie doesn’t count as refusing to help.” Licorice Cookie gave the short Cookie a look, “Yeeeeah, I’m gonna have to pass on that, bud. Come on Bat-Cat, let’s see if we can fix the stove in the Traveler’s Rest,” he said, starting off for the inn. “If anyone is feeling under the weather I’d be glad to assist them with my magic!” Healer Cookie cheered. “Or, if you need something SMASHED into a buncha itty-bitty pieces! Choco Werehound Brute is the Cake for the job!” Schwarzwälder exclaimed, waving his hammer. Soon the group set out to divide and conquer.

Schwarzwälder and Red Velvet helped some of the merchants carry heavy objects. Pomegranate and Healer Cookie helped any Cookie who was feeling ill or injured with their healing magic. Poison Mushroom Cookie helped the villagers dig a new milk well. (He’d had some experience with helping dig the well back in their kingdom.) With a little research, Licorice Cookie and his minions were able to repair the stove in the Inn. (It turned out the fuel ports needed to be unclogged.) And Dark Choco Cookie helped guide travelers through the town. (Not because he knew his way around, but because some of the more nervous visitors felt safer having a warrior in their party to protect them from bandits and such.)

“We’ll have this done in no time, Chiffon!” Red Velvet Cookie said as he carried a large crate full of sodas to the Traveler’s Rest Inn. Chiffon barked in agreement and hopped up and down, causing the small box on the Pupcake’s head to bounce slightly. “Hahaha, careful boy. I know, I’m excited too! Our first challenge is not only something we’re good at, but something I really enjoy doing. Did you see the smile on Vanilla Marshmellow Cookie’s face when we finished helping her paint her shop?” Chiffon wagged his tail proudly in response. “I wonder how everyone else is doing… Oh, there they are now!” Red Velvet Cookie said, picking up the pace a bit when he noticed his friends gathered outside the inn. “Hey guys! How’re the challenges going?” His friends smiled at him as he joined them. “A lot easier now! Take a look at this cool idea, Licorice Cookie came up with!” Pomegranate Cookie said, nodding to the Dark Wizard who was proudly standing next to a small crate.

“I figured out a way to increase our productivity with our tasks by over 27%. This will also allow us to reach more Cookies, to ensure everyone gets an equal opportunity to receive our assistance during the trial!” He said, grinning from ear to ear and proudly placing a hand to his chest. “Wow! What does all that mean?” Red Velvet Cookie said, tilting his head. Licorice Cookie chuckled softly. “Inspired by the Tree of Wishes and the Blueberry Birds back in the Kingdom, I give you… The request box!” Licorice Cookie said, gesturing to the small crate on the ground next to him. “It’s very simple. Bat-Cat flys around the town looking for Cookies in need, the Cookies then write their request for help down on a small piece of paper, much like the Wish Scripts back at the Tree of Wishes, and Bat-Cat flys back and delivers them to this box. Oh, there he is now!” Licorice Cookie said, shielding his eyes with his hand and looking into the sky.

Red Velvet looked up to see Bat-Cat diving down towards the group, he steadied himself and hovered over the box, before emptying a small satchel full of paper scripts into the box. Licorice Cookie then levitated the papers as Bat-Cat returned to his shoulder. “We then organize the requests from Most Important and Hardest to Least Important and Easiest. For example, a Cookie’s biscuit cart is stuck in the mud uptown, that sounds quite important. Schwarzwälder?” He said, turning to the Werehound with a smile. “Choco Werehoud Brute will have that Cookie out of the mud in two shakes of a Cake’s tail!” He cheered. Licorice Cookie turned back to the papers, “A Cookie is stuck at home because of a severe stomach ache, sounds like a job for you Healer Cookie,” he said, smiling at the blind healer. “Her address is on the slip… Uh, Red Velvet, why don’t you go with him to help?” Red Velvet nodded, “Sure thing!” Licorice Cookie looked back at the request slips again, “Ooooh! This one sounds like my kinda thing, an elderly merchant needs help organizing their library. I’ll take this one since I’m the best at organizing!”

“That and you love books,” Poison Mushroom Cookie added. “Yeah, I do,” Licorice Cookie replied. The rest of the team laughed warmly. “This is actually quite an effective system, Licorice Cookie. Not only will we be able to keep track of everyone who needs help but we can make sure we pace ourselves with the difficulty of the tasks so we can continue until the end of the day,” Dark Choco Cookie said. “Licorice Cookie, you’re a genius!” Red Velvet Cookie exclaimed. “Yeah, I know,” Licorice Cookie replied. To which the others laughed in response.

Even after a few hours of going nonstop, the group showed no signs of tiring or slowing down. A small group of villagers watched them, smiling warmly. “My, my, I haven’t seen such strong Unity since the Five Ancient Cookie Heroes!” One said. “They kind of remind me of the Ancient Heroes,” said another. “Ha, that’s no surprise. Dark Choco Cookie is the spitting image of his father. And that blind Cookie… Didn’t he say he was a descendant of the Vanilla Kingdom like us?” A younger Villiager added. “A warrior, a Vanilla Healer, a Dark Wizard, the only thing they’re missing is a Cookie who can fly. Hahaha!” The first chuckled. “You think they can really pass the Trials?” The youngest asked. “It’s Prince Dark Choco Cookie and his friends, if anyone can pass the Trials, it’s them,” the second replied. “But you know… No one has ever made it past the second trial,” the first added. “But we’ve also never had a group with such a… Diverse dynamic before,” the second replied. “I hope they pass, I’m cheering for them!” The youngest exclaimed.

However, Elder Waffle Cone Cookie and a small group of elders did not share those sentiments as they watched the small group. Even when it felt like they were about to be defeated by a task, somehow, someway they always managed to pull together to overcome the problem. “Mmmmmm…” Elder Waffle Cone Cookie said softly, “This isn’t good, Elder… This is the most capable group we’ve ever had to enter the Trials, they might actually be able to…” The Elder turned to the others, “Quiet! They’ll fail one way or another,” he said, narrowing his eyes as he watched the small group erupt into cheers and high-five one another over another successful endeavor. “But didn’t you hear the young Prince? He’s actually trying to find the Five Ancient Heroes, what if there really is something there that will tell him where to look? You know what kind of disaster will befall us! It’ll be the day of the Dark Flour War all over again!” The other elder said, panic rising in her voice. “They won’t,” Elder Waffle Cone Cookie said coldly, “We’ll make sure of it.

By midday, the Cookies still showed no signs of slowing down. In fact, something unprecedented had happened. They had run out of Cookies to help. It seemed like everyone in town had received assistance in one way or another, and now Licorice Cookie’s request box was empty. “Huh,” The Dark Wizard said as he looked into the small crate, “Are… You sure you can’t find anything else?” He asked Bat-Cat, who was hovering above him. The flying feline shrugged. “It seems like we’ve helped everrry Cookie in town,” he purred. “So… Does that mean we’ve passed the trial?” Pomegranate Cookie asked. “Awww… I was having fun helping all our new friends,” Poison Mushroom Cookie sighed. “I’m sure we can find something else. Remember, Rye Cookie said we couldn’t stop until the day was over,” Red Velvet Cookie reminded them. “Of course, I never said anythin’ about if y’all finished all yer tasks before the day was over,” Rye Cookie said, walking up to the group with a Cake in a cowboy hat in tow.

“Rye Cookie! Hey! We were just trying to figure out what to do next,” Red Velvet Cookie said. “It seems like we’ve already gone through all the requests, so what are we supposed to do now?” Rye Cookie readjusted her hat, “To tell ya the truth, Sugar… This sort of thing has never happened before. Y’all are the first challengers to run out of tasks before the end of the trial.” The Cake in a cowboy hat placed his hand on his hip, “Not really a surprise… Considerin’ they’ve got a couple of Cakes and… Whatever… That is, on their team…” He said, eyeing Red Velvet Cookie. “Wheat Cake…” Rye Cookie said softly. “What?” The Cake replied with a huff. Rye Cookie just rolled her eyes good-naturedly. “I’d like to introduce y’all to my deputy, Wheat Cake. He helps me keep the law in the village,” she said, smiling at the pale-doughed Cake as he took out a small white and yellow boomerang and started polishing it. “Oh, I didn’t know you had a Cake, Rye Cookie,” Red Velvet Cookie said with a smile.”

“I’m not her Cake,” Wheat Cake hissed. “And if ya call me that I’m gonna git ya right between the eyes with Goldenshot here,” he said, waving his boomerang. “I don’t belong ta any Cookies… I’m mah own Cake, that clear, half-breed?” He said, his striking blue eyes boring into Red Velvet Cookie. The Cake-Cookie hybrid shrunk back slightly. “Uh…” He wasn’t used to seeing Cakes with such an… Aloof and cold attitude. Rye Cookie chuckled slightly at his reaction, “Don’t worry about him, Wheatster’s just a bit rough around the edges is all.” Wheat Cake huffed indignantly in response. “Anywho,” the Cake deputy said, “Rye’s right, y’all are the first challengers to ever complete the first trial before the day’s end.”

“So… What do we do now?” Licorice Cookie asked. “We could ask the elders… They are the ones in charge of overseeing the trials, they’ll decide if y’all can call it a day or if there’s anyone else in need of…”

“HELP!!!”

Rye Cookie was cut off by the sound of a shout, followed by the sound of screaming and panic. Her eyes widened and she whipped out her pistol, “What in tarnation?” Red Velvet and his friends followed her into the town square, where the sight of utter pandemonium greeted them. Cookies ran in panic, some slamming their doors and windows shut if they managed to make it to the safety of their houses, but most weren’t so lucky. Small green creatures with pointed ears were rampaging through the town. Holding some Cookies hostage at dagger-point and looting from the abandoned shops. Red Velvet Cookie gasped as he realized he recognized these creatures. Rye Cookie gritted her teeth, “Ginkgoblins,” she hissed. Wheat Cake looked around at the scene in disbelief, “We’ve never had a raid this big before. A handful will sometimes come into town and cause trouble but… Never like this… What’s goin’ on?”

“I think I know,” Red Velvet Cookie said, stepping forward. “My friends and I encountered these thieves shortly before we came into town. They said they’d be back but… I didn’t think they’d attack the entire town.” Rye Cookie unholstered her pistol and spun it around in her hand. “Relax, kiddo. This ain’t my first rodeo with these lowlifes… But Wheat Cake and I are gonna be outnumbered if we go in alone… If y’all have taken these guys down once, think y’all can do it again?” She said, smiling at the small band of desserts. Red Velvet Cookie nodded and drew his sword, the rest of his friends readied their weapons and followed after the sheriff as she dove into battle, hollering and firing her pistols in every direction.

A few Ginkgoblins got knocked back, a hole was torn in a sack one was stuffing valuables in, and another Ginkgoblin lost his dagger and yelped as he held his injured hand. He turned to the Cookie who had appeared, her face covered by her hat and her pistols smoking. The Ginkgoblins paused as the Cookie slowly raised the pistol to her mouth and blew the steam off the lip. She lifted her hat and scanned the crowd of troublemakers with a toothy grin. One of the Ginkgoblins stepped forwards, unimpressed by the Cookie’s flashy display. “Well, well, well… If it isn’t the honorable sheriff of Pilgrim’s Path,” he shickered. Rye Cookie’s stance told the goblin she wasn’t intimidated, if anything she looked as cool as a cucumber. “Y’all never learn yer lessons do ya?” She said. A hush fell over the town, and the cowering townspeople watched with bated breath to see who would make the first move. The wind kicked up and a tumbleweed blew by as Rye Cookie never broke eye contact with the Ginkgoblin. “Y’all know I don’t take kindly to your kind in my town.”

The Ginkgoblin crossed his arms over his chest. “It’s nothing personal, sheriff… A least… Not with you,” the Ginkgoblin turned to Red Velvet and his friends and smiled under his bandana. “We told you cutie-patooties we’d be back, didn’t we? You could have just handed over your things real simple like, and nobody would have had to get hurt, but look where that got you. Thanks to you, in order to make up for our losses yesterday our boss had us take from the civilians.” As the Ginkgoblin spoke some of the others began to threaten their captives. One held a knife to a frightened villager's throat, a child was pulled from her mother, crying and screaming as the Ginkgoblins threw her to the ground, windows were smashed, and crates were overturned all in a matter of seconds. Rye Cookie shouted and held up her pistol, aiming right between the first Ginkgoblin’s eyes. “Y’all have got ‘till the count of three to put your weapons down and come with me… Or you’re all gonna be in for a world of hurt.”

The Ginkgoblin scoffed, “And how many of your people are you willing to risk to do that? We’ve got you outnumbered ten to one. If anyone should be surrendering… It’s you.” The Ginkgoblins snickered wickedly. Rye Cookie sighed and placed a piece of wheat in between her teeth. “I tried to be nice,” she said softly, before she opened fire on the bandits. Rye Cookie was the best sharpshooter in the valley, every bullet hit its mark, whether its mark was a Ginkgoblin, a crate they were standing on, or a rope that snapped and caused a pile of metal scraps to come tumbling down on them. The Ginkgoblins rushed Rye Cookie, but many of them never made it to her.

Some were blown back by a sudden bolt of purple lightning, others were knocked back as Schwarzwälder jumped in front of them and sent them flying with a powerful swing of his hammer. Red Velvet disarmed one Ginkgoblin and Chiffon distracted another by biting down into their leg. Wheat Cake jumped into battle beside Rye Cookie and threw his boomerang, which ricocheted off of several Ginkgoblins before returning to him. He smiled up at Rye Cookie and the two gave each other a nod.

The captured townspeople watched, holding their breath as the battle progressed. Wincing once or twice when it seemed the thieves almost overwhelmed the warriors with their numbers. The Ginkgoblins holding them captive grinned evilly at them. When suddenly something rolled up to one of the bandit’s feet. She looked down to see a small purple mushroom on the ground and was immediately confused. Mushrooms weren’t native to the desert, it was too hot and dry for such things. Was this some rare stock of one of the shops? She bent down and picked it up, it seemed to jiggle in her hands as if it were filled with water. A Ginkgoblin with scratches all over his face noticed the thing in her hands and his eyes widened. He recognized it from the attempted ambush yesterday, he tried to run to her to smack it out of her hands but it was too late. The Shroomy exploded, sending up a small cloud of purple spores. It was one of the smaller Shroomies so the spore cloud wasn’t very big, but it was enough to disorient the Ginkgoblins.

Poison Mushroom Cookie and Pomegranate Cookie rushed in, Poison Mushroom tossing a few more Shroomies and giggling while Pomegranate Cookie led the captive Cookies to safety. Healer Cookie was doing the same thing with Bat-Cat’s help. He cast a blinding light spell to stun the Ginkgoblins and Bat-Cat used his wings to kick up sand into the Ginkgoblins’ faces. Licorice Cookie rushed over and picked up a crying child and helped reunite her with her mother. He then used a cloaking spell to help them sneak away to safety.

The warriors helped Rye Cookie and Wheat Cake fend off the attackers. Red Velvet Cookie was using every bit of his training and instincts to guide him. But even that didn’t help the fact he was being overwhelmed, fast. He’d manage to block attacks and even get a hit in here or there, but there were too many of them to properly fend them all off, even with his Cake claw and his sword. He snapped at a Ginkgoblin who tried to slash his face and managed to graze its arm with his sharp Cake tooth. He felt a sharp pain in the back of his head and turned snarling, to see a Ginkgoblins with a slingshot standing some distance away. But they were too far away for him to do anything about it, and he had three Ginkgoblins with daggers he was trying to fight off as it was. He slashed, blocked, received another hit from the slingshot goblin, clawed, and almost lost an eye as he had to dive out of the way of a dagger.

They weren’t letting up and sand was starting to get kicked up from the fight, it was settling into Red Velvet Cookie’s wounds, which made him feel like several parts of his body were on fire. But he couldn’t stop now, he had to push past the pain, he couldn’t fall here. He couldn’t let his friends down. Then, the Cake-Cookie hybrid heard a familiar noise. “Arf! Arf! Arrrg!” Red Velvet Cookie smiled as Chiffon appeared from the cloud of sand and jumped onto one of the Ginkgoblin’s backs. Causing the thief to lose their balance and flail around as they tried to throw the Pupcake off. He ended up knocking into another Ginkgoblin in his flailing, giving Red Velvet Cookie an opening to attack the other one. She flew back several feet and landed with a thud, before she could get back up, Wheat Cake appeared and handcuffed her to a streetlamp. “I’ll read ya yer rights after we’re done roundin’ up the rest of yer friends,” he teased as he tossed his boomerang, hitting the slingshot Ginkgoblin and causing them to stumble back. Red Velvet Cookie rushed them and left a large gash in his chest with his Cake Claw. For good measure (and for his own pleasure) he stomped on the Ginkgoblin’s discarded slingshot and broke it into several pieces.

He smiled in satisfaction and looked back to see Chiffon running circles around the other two goblins. He bit down into one of their legs and the Ginkgoblin yelled in pain. “GET HIM OFF ME! GET HIM OFF! GET THIS MANGY MUTT OFF OF ME!” Red Velvet’s enjoyment turned to horror when he saw the other Ginkgoblin pull out a small pistol and fire several shots at his Pupcake. He managed to hit the other Ginkgoblin’s leg in the process but he also hit Chiffon, sending the Cake Hound flying with a cry of pain and landing with a splash in the town’s water fountain. “CHIFFON!” Red Velvet Cookie shouted. He turned to the Ginkgoblin, growling through his teeth, lowering his head. His vision fixed on the enemy responsible for hurting his precious Chiffon. The two were arguing, they didn’t notice the enraged Cake-Cookie charging them until he’d let out a Cake-like howl, and by that time it was too late.

Red Velvet Cookie dove into the Ginkgoblin, ripping at him with his Cake hand and biting down into his neck. The Ginkgoblin screamed in pain as he was thrown to the ground with Red Velvet still on top of him. Normally Red would have let up with this enemy taken down and went on to the next one, but he was seeing red right now. He wasn’t finished with him, not after the way he’d hurt Chiffon. He started shaking his head around with his teeth still latched onto the Ginkgoblin’s neck, causing the tears and lacerations to grow deeper and longer, like a wild Cake Wolf digging into their prey. The Ginkgoblin was starting to choke as his airway was blocked off by the fangs in his throat and the claw pressing down on his chest. Red Velvet dug his claw deeper and bit down harder still, his mind on one track and blocking out every other sensation but the smell of blood, the scent seemed to only drive his frenzy and cause him to double down on his attack.

Suddenly his side exploded in pain as he was knocked off the Ginkgoblin and forced to let go. He hit the ground hard and slid several feet from the force of the impact. His side felt as if it were on fire, a sharp, stabbing pain radiated from his side just below his ribs. As if someone was stabbing him again and again with a knife that had been placed in a fire. The pain was so intense it caused his vision to blur and his body to freeze, he couldn’t even lift his head as three Ginkgbolins came into view. The leader of the trio was holding a smoking pistol. It was then that Red Velvet realized that he had been shot. The other two were looking at the wounded Cake-Cookie with a mix of fear and awe.

“That is not natural,” one of them said. “It’s like some freaky mutant or something…” The other said. “I can’t even tell if it’s a Cake or a Cookie…” The leader tapped his pistol against his hand. “Y’know back in the old days Cakes that acted like that were put down.” Red Velvet watched, growling softly, that was all he could do, he no longer had the strength to fight back and his sword had been thrown out of his reach. “You should probably do that… This thing might have rabies or something,” the first Ginkgoblin chuckled cruelly. “We’d probably be doing Earthbread a favor,” the leader replied, aiming his pistol right between Red Velvet’s eyes, “Getting rid of this mutt…” A few other words were tossed about but by now Red Velvet’s mind was swimming so much it was hard to make them out. Despite this, he heard the words, “Freak,” and “Monster” quite clearly.

Because his vision was blurred both from the pain and from the tears that were forming in his eyes, it was hard for him to figure out what happened next. But he knew he heard a shot, but it wasn’t from the Ginkgoblin in front of him. In fact, he thinks he saw his weapon get knocked out of his hand, one of the other Ginkgoblins got knocked back as well and the last one tried to run away. He thinks he saw someone chasing after them but he couldn’t be sure. “Hey… Kiddo,” a voice called through the haze. Red Velvet Cookie weakly looked up and his vision slowly managed to focus enough to make out a still slightly blurry Rye Cookie kneeling in front of him. “Don’t pass out on me now, c’mon, let’s get you out of here.” Her voice had a slight echo to it. Red Velvet Cookie was jolted back to reality as he felt the pain return three-fold as Rye Cookie placed her hands under his arms and started dragging him away from the battlefield and behind a stack of crates.

She leaned him back against the boxes and Red Velvet Cookie hissed in pain. “Hang on, I’ve gotta disinfect this…” Rye Cookie said, pulling a bottle of liquid from her poncho and popping the lid with her teeth, “This might sting a little,” she said out of the corner of her mouth. Red Velvet Cookie instinctively threw his head back and hissed as Rye Cookie poured the liquid over his injury. But despite the intense pain he was in, his mind was only on one thing. “C… Chiffon… Where’s… Chiffon? I…Is… Is he ok?” Rye Cookie smiled down at him, “Your buddy’s gonna be ok, I saw one of your friends fish him out of the fountain… The uh… The pink one…” Red Velvet Cookie sighed in relief. Pomegranate Cookie, she’d be able to heal any injuries he got from the fight. He was safe, thank goodness. Red Velvet began to relax. “I gotta admit, you’re made of tougher dough than I thought. Looks like the bullet went pretty deep, and we're not gonna know how to fix this until we can figure out what kind he used. So you’re gonna have to sit the rest of this one out until we can get you to a medic, kiddo.” Red Velvet Cookie groaned as Rye Cookie pressed a cloth to his wound to stop the oozing, “Ahhhgghh… W… What about the Ginkgoblins?”

Rye Cookie carefully looked over the crates and smiled. “Looks like we’ve just about got all of ‘em,” she said. Watching as Pomegranate Cookie jumped in front of an injured Dark Choco and held her mirror up in front of her. The Ginkgoblin who was about to attack the prince stopped in his tracks, started shaking violently before falling to his knees and clutching his head, screaming. Rye Cookie didn’t want to know what kind of magic she was using. Licorice Cookie had managed to stop several Ginkgoblins by lifting them into the air with his magic. He then turned them upside down and shook them to make them drop their weapons and any stolen objects. Poison Mushroom Cookie stood off to the side and laughed at the comical scene. Wheat Cake was handcuffing a few more goblins together and Healer Cookie had already gathered up a few villagers and began healing them and returning their belongings.

Red Velvet Cookie sighed and held his side with his Cake arm. “First time getting shot?” Rye Cookie asked, resting her elbow on top of the crates and resting her cheek in her hand. “Uuugh… It… Hurts to breathe…” The Cake-Cookie hybrid groaned. “Yeah… Luckily it looks like it didn’t hit anything vital so… You’ll live.” Red Velvet Cookie gave her a lopsided grin and replied. “Yeah… I’m pretty good at not dying.” Rye Cookie laughed in response, it was a deep, hearty laugh and seemed to come from every part of her body, but Red Velvet could only smile back.

Soon enough the dust had settled and every last Ginkgoblin had been subdued. Healer Cookie helped the town medics patch up anyone who had gotten injured during the fight. Red Velvet Cookie sat atop a crate with his shirt in his lap while one of the town’s medics used their magic to remove a piece of bullet from his side. The medic examined the piece before saying, “Flaxseed, low-quality, you should be able to patch him up with some healing magic, and your body will just absorb the bullet in a few days.” Red Velvet raised an eyebrow, “Really?” Rye Cookie nodded. “Lower-quality bullets don’t do as much damage. They’re made of grains that break down easily so our bodies just treat ‘em like food. Higher quality stuff… Like my whole-grain wheat bullets, they need to be taken out before you can be patched up, if they’re left in they’re likely to cause more damage. Luckily Ginkgoblins have trouble getting their hands on higher grain ammunition.”

“I’m glad you know so much about this, Rye Cookie,” Pomegranate Cookie said, observing Red Velvet’s facial expression. “I’ve never dealt with an injury like this before. Are you… Sure it’s alright for me to use my healing magic now?” The town medic nodded, “He’ll be fine, but you’ll probably be feeling a little sore for a few days, and I’d lay off the fighting if I were you,” he said to the Cake-Cookie hybrid. “That’s going to make it much harder to complete the next trial,” Elder Waffle Cone Cookie said, sounding a little too… Pleased with that information. But to his surprise, Red Velvet Cookie smiled. “That’s alright, it doesn’t matter how difficult it is. As long as I have my friends with me, I know I’ll be fine.” The rest of Red Velvet’s friends voiced their agreement.

“Arf! Arf! Arf!”

Red Velvet Cookie grinned as he saw the crowd part to make way for a Pupcake running up to meet him. Red Velvet Cookie opened his arms to let Chiffon dive into him just as Pomegranate Cookie finished her Nature’s Blessing spell. The force of their happy reunion caused Red Velvet to tumble off the crate and land on his back, which did cause his earlier injury to smart, but he was so overjoyed at seeing his precious Cake alive and well that it didn’t matter. He was just too happy now. Licorice and Poison Mushroom panicked just a little but Red Velvet assured them he was fine. Dark Choco helped him get back to his feet. The villagers surrounded the group to thank them for helping recuse their town from the Ginkgoblins, “You guys really are heroes!” one of them shouted. “Aw, it was nothing…” Red Velvet Cookie said, rubbing the back of his neck and blushing slightly. Some of the townspeople tried to offer them gifts as a token of their gratitude, but they refused each one. The Cookie smiled lopsidedly at the elders, who sighed and had to relent. In light of the recent developments they had no choice but to declare that the group had passed the first of the Hero’s Trials… Early. Red Velvet and his friends cheered. As did the villagers, who were chanting and cheering on the newcomers. Many of them expressed their hope for their victory and their belief in their success.

“This calls for a celebration!” Rye Cookie cheered, “What do y'all all say to a round of drinks back at Traveler’s Rest, on me… I insist, Wheat Cake and I might not have taken all of those rascals down without y’all’s help, right Wheatster?” Rye Cookie said turning to her deputy. The Cake rolled his eyes and pulled his hat down over one of his eyes, “Yeah, sure, whatever. Look, I’ve got to go lock these hooligans up… You go… Party with the other Cookies or whatever.” And with that, Wheat Cake left, herding the group of disgruntled thieves toward the jail. Rye turned back to the group who were watching him leave with troubled expressions on their faces. “Ahh… Wheat’s just passionate about doin’ his job. C’mon, don’t worry about him, let’s go celebrate!” Rye Cookie exclaimed, firing off a round into the air and laughing.

The elders watched the scene with worry. “Elder Waffle Cone Cookie… What do we do now?” an elder said anxiously. Waffle Cone Cookie turned his attention from the cheering crowd of Cookies to Wheat Cake and the Ginkgoblins, “I have an idea, follow me,” he said, disappearing into an alleyway with the other elders following carefully behind.

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The Cookies laughed and raised their glasses in a toast to their success. The first day of the trials and they’d passed with flying colors. Granted, it was a bit harder than they were all expecting, but their victory had put the group in good spirits. All except Red Velvet Cookie that is. While the others were laughing and chatting and enjoying their drinks, Red Velvet Cookie sat staring into his juice glass and absent-mindedly petting Chiffon, who sat in his lap with his ears pressed flat against his head. He could sense his Cookie’s unease, but he wasn’t sure what he could do to help him feel better. Normally after a victorious battle, Red Velvet Cookie would be feeling accomplished and proud. He would be in the moment celebrating with his friends and wondering if this fight would be one he would tell younger warriors about when he was older.

But this fight felt different somehow. Those feelings of accomplishment just… Weren’t there. He felt… Numb. Confused. He stared down into his drink, seeing his reflection staring back at him, slitted pupil and pointed fang. Chiffon whimpered softly, and Red Velvet turned his attention to the little Pupcake in his lap. He smiled at him and gently ran his Cake hand through his soft frosting fur. Then he stopped. He stared down at his Cake arm before lifting it up, turning his hand so his palm faced him, opening and closing his pointed fingers. He stared at it and felt things he’d never felt before. “Red Velvet Cookie…” The Cake-Cookie hybrid jumped slightly as Healer Cookie’s voice jarred him back to reality. “Are you feeling alright?” the blind healer asked. Red Velvet was at a loss for words. “Uh… I… Uh… Yeah, yeah, I’m fine… Just… Still a little sore from the fight is all,” he replied. Healer Cookie hummed softly. “Is that… All that is troubling you?” Red Velvet Cookie stiffened. How could Healer Cookie tell he wasn’t alright? He was blind… Did he have some sort of sixth sense that healers had that told him when someone was injured emotionally as well as physically? “Y-yeah,” Red Velvet Cookie lied, “I’m just… Tired… Is all.”

“It’s a shame Wheat Cake didn’t want to celebrate with us,” Poison Mushroom Cookie said to Rye Cookie. Rye Cookie chugged her Rye Juice and set the glass down roughly and wiped her chin, “Eh… He’s not much of a social butterfly, if y’know what I mean. Wheatster prefers to be alone.” Schwarzwälder scoffed, “He prefers to be alone, or just not around Cookies? Never in my life have I met a Cake who was so…” Chiffon barked a few times. “Chiffon, watch your language,” the Werehound said scoldingly. “Yeah, I agree with Schwarzwälder,” Licorice Cookie said, sticking a bendy straw into a Juice Box and passing it to Liciam. “Wheat Cake seems to have a thing against Cookies.” Schwarzwälder scoffed, “He clearly’s never had one of his own!”

Rye Cookie traced her hand around the lip of her glass. “Actually… Wheat did use to have a Cookie of his own… That’s… Actually, the reason why he tries not to get close to any other Cookies.” The room fell silent, Rye Cookie sighed and leaned back, “Wheat Cake lost his Cookie to the Sonmum Aeternus Curse years ago. Ever since then, he’s blamed himself for not bein’ able to keep her safe.” Rye Cookie tapped her glass against the table, “But of course… Ask anyone in this here town, and you’ll have a hard time findin’ someone who didn’t lose a loved one to the curse. Even those who aren’t refugees from the Vanilia Kingdom, right Sugary Juice Cookie?” Rye Cookie called over the counter to the bartender, a Cookie with messy red hair and a stained-up shirt. “Huh… Oh yeah…” he said, shaking his silver jigger.

“You lost a friend to the curse?” Dark Choco Cookie asked. “Yeah…” Sugary Juice Cookie said, “Frozen Treat Cookie sacrificed herself to save me when the Cremlins attacked our home. The villagers found me wandering in the desert and took me in.” Dark Choco Cookie nodded solemnly, “I know how you feel, I lost many friends to the curse on the day of the Dark Flour War,” he said, his eye clouding over. Normally Pomegranate Cookie would have been worried that he was about to enter another one of his depressive spirals… But he’d had three glasses of Juice so… “So let us not let their sacrifices be in vain! And let us continue to fight in honor of their memory! Your friend let herself be captured so you could go free, Sugary Juice Cookie, so you could continue to bring good and happiness into this world!”

Sugary Juice Cookie’s eyes sparkled from the prince’s flamboyant speech. Pomegranate Cookie rolled her eyes. “She believed in you and cared about you more than she cared about herself, just as all my men did on that night. LET US HONOR THEIR MEMORY BY CELEBRATING THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS WE HAVE ONLY BEEN ABLE TO MAKE BECAUSE OF THEIR SACRIFICE!” He shouted, raising his Juice glass high above his head. “I’ll drink to that,” Rye Cookie said, holding up her glass. Sugary Juice Cookie chuckled softly, “Maybe you’re right, your highness.” Dark Choco Cookie sat his glass down, “Of course I’m right, I speak from personal experi—Hey! Pomegranate Cookie, what was that for?” Dark Choco Cookie exclaimed. Pomegranate Cookie had purposefully knocked his drink over while he had it in her arm’s range. “You’ve had enough. You’re already Juiced,” she replied simply. “I am not!” Dark Choco Cookie exclaimed indignantly. But the pinkish tent over his cheeks and the bridge of his nose as well as the way he was swaying ever so slightly told her otherwise.

“Chocy… Remember the butterfly karaoke incident?” Pomegranate Cookie said. The two just stared at one another for a moment before Dark Choco Cookie crossed his arms over his chest. “Oh, don’t act like you didn’t enjoy that,” he huffed. “I did, but I remember you getting very flustered when I showed you the video the next day,” Pomegranate Cookie replied with a cute giggle. Dark Choco’s cheeks turned pink. “Alright, fine. Something a little weaker this time then,” he said, resting his hands behind his head. “You got it!” Sugary Juice Cookie said, shaking and tossing his juice jigger. But he ended up missing it and it landed on his head, causing the jigger to open and spill juice all over him. The room was silent for a moment before Dark Choco Cookie burst out laughing uncontrollably and slamming his hand against the table. (He was so juiced up at this point that everything was funny to him.) Pomegranate Cookie started laughing at Dark Choco Cookie’s reaction and Poison Mushroom started laughing just because they were laughing.

“Hehehe… I guess drinks are on me then…” Sugary Juice Cookie said wiping his face off with a nearby cloth. The rest of the group burst out into laughter as well, even Sugary Juice (being the good-natured Cookie that he was) started laughing. Healer Cookie smiled as he heard Red Velvet’s voice join the joyous harmony, his burden seemed to have been lightened, for now.

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Wheat Cake shut the door to the last cell and ignored the Ginkgoblins throwing insults and swearing his way. He twirled the jailer’s keys around in his hand as if to mock the locked-up Ginkgoblins as he walked past the row of cells. At least they wouldn’t have to worry about these ruffians for a little while, so even with the trials, things might get a little quieter around here. Wheat Cake filtered out the insults so he could answer the genuine questions that were typically asked by the younger or lower-ranking thieves. “Hey, man. You got any aspirin? My neck is killin’ me…” Asked a bandaged ginkgoblin. “In the drawer, hold tight,” Wheat Cake said, placing the keys safely in the desk against the far end of the wall, well out of reach of any of the cells. “Hey, I still get my phone call right? I told my mom I’d be home in time for dinner tonight,” A younger Ginkgoblin asked. “Wait your turn, and keep it under five minutes there are others in line behind you,” Wheat Cake replied, deciding to step outside for a little air.

Wheat Cake shut the door behind him and sighed loudly, stretching and leaning against a post. He stared off into the twilight sky, taking a piece of wheat out of his pocket and placing it between his teeth. While absent-mindedly chewing and letting his mind wander he heard something that made his hair stand on end.

“Wheeeeaaat Caaaaake.”

The Cake started slightly. He recognized that voice… But, no… It was impossible, it couldn’t be… He started scanning the empty streets for any sign of life, most of the villagers had packed up and gone home after such an eventful evening. He kept his hand over the holster of his boomerang. Maybe it was just some kids playing a prank. The only sign of movement was a tumbleweed that blew by. But the voice called again, “Wheeeat Caaake!” The voice echoed. He shook his head, he had to be losing his mind, or suffering from auditory hallucinations from dehydration or something. But his heart caught in his throat when he caught sight of a figure standing in a dark alleyway. Normally he would have passed it off as a trick of his mind or just shadows, but darkness was not the only thing he saw, he also saw light, a soft yellow and blue glow coming from the figure’s head.

It couldn’t be.

“Sweet Mint Cookie?” Wheat Cake said softly. But as soon as she’d appeared, she was gone. Wheat Cake gasped and, abandoning all rational thinking, ran after her. “Hey! Wait!” He followed the shadowy figure into the alleyway, saw her turning a corner, and continued chase. He lost sight of her at one point, but a childish giggle soon altered him to her position again. He continued trying to track her down, telling himself it was foolish but ignoring all the danger warnings that were going off in his head. If that really was her… “Wheat Cake!” The Cake turned again and raced down another section of alleyway. But all he came to was a dead end. There was no one there, not even an alley cat scrounging through the trash bins for food. It was as if she had disappeared into thin air. Or she was never there at all. Wheat Cake kicked himself for childishly chasing after fantasies and shadows, he knew better but for some reason, she still haunted his dreams. And now those dreams seemed to be haunting his waking moments as well.

He sighed and turned to go back the way he came, hoping he hadn’t gotten himself too lost in the maze of back allies. Suddenly he stopped, he noticed a strange smell, he looked down and inspected the ground. Finding several sets of footprints, only one belonging to himself. He bent down and studied the prints until he found the source of the smell and he gasped. “Oh… My… Oh my gosh… I… I’ve gotta tell Rye Cookie!” And with that, he bolted off without so much as a second glance behind him. But had he looked back, he would have seen a Cookie watching him from the shadows, with leafy green hair and a mint-blue dress that was dirty and torn in several places. A smile on her face, and glowing bandages covering her eyes.

The Cookie suddenly received a smack on the back of her head. She turned, still smiling, to face the Cookie who had given her the disciplinary strike. Wizard Cookie glared at the Cursed Cookie. “What do you think you’re doing?! You almost got us caught!” The Cookie continued to smile as she placed her hands together. “I’m sorry,” she said, in a robotic voice. “I just wanted to say hello to my old friend.” Chili Pepper Cookie appeared beside Wizard Cookie. “There’s no time for that, Sweet Mint Cookie. We’ve got a mission to complete and treasures to snatch, come on let’s get back to camp!” Wizard Cookie nodded, grabbed the Cursed Cookie’s hand, and started dragging her away. She looked back one more time to see if she could hear the sound of her friend’s footsteps, but the alleyway was silent.

Chapter Text

Normally Red Velvet was awoken by Chiffon licking his face and yapping loudly, but today he found himself staring not into a pair of brown eyes but pink ones.

"Red Velvet Cookie!" Pomegranate Cookie shouted, she started jumping on the bed, fully jolting Red Velvet Cookie out of sleep. "Wake up! Wake up! Wake up!" She cheered as she bounced. The force of her jumping caused Red Velvet Cookie to fall out of bed and land on the floor upside down, still halfway wrapped in his blankets and with a dazed and half-asleep Chiffon by his side. "Ugh… Pomegranate" he groaned, wincing as his bullet injury flared up. He glared at her ever so slightly. Pomegranate was looking over the side of the bed and bouncing excitedly. "C'mon! It's morning already! It's time for the second Trial!" Any irritation the Cake-Cookie had felt a moment before dissolved into the same excitement Pomegranate had. He leapt to his feet and tossed the covers to the side. Pomegranate Cookie jumped off the bed, "I'll meet you downstairs!" She cheered, before dashing off to gather up the rest of her teammates.

Red Velvet Cookie smiled and began to change out of his pajamas, he would have been able to do it much faster, if not for his injury slowing him down. But his sore side didn't affect his excitement. The second Trial, this meant they were one step closer to Hero's Gate! One step closer to finding Dark Choco's dad. Red Velvet smiled as he thought of their potential reunion. Dark Choco always spoke of his father with such reverence and pride, Red Velvet was actually looking forward to meeting him himself. Chiffon yawned loudly and turned in a circle several times before laying back down in the pile of discarded blankets. Red Velvet chuckled softly, “C’mon Chiffon, we’ve got a big day ahead of us!” he said, digging through his bag for a fresh Raspberry Topping. The Pupcake half-whined half-growled in protest. It was too early for this, and he was tired after the rough fight yesterday. Red Velvet Cookie smiled and rolled his eyes good-naturedly as he fastened his cape around his neck. “Alright, have it your way,” he said with a smile. He scooped the little Pupcake up and cradled him under his Cake arm.

Chiffon yapped a bit and snorted in annoyance but quickly relaxed in his Cookie’s hold and slowly went back to sleep. Red Velvet Cookie couldn’t help but chuckle at the tiny Cake’s reaction as he left his room. He could see Poison Mushroom Cookie down the hall walking out of his room, yawning, and rubbing his eyes. Pomegranate Cookie must have just woken him up too. “Hey, Shroomy!” The Cake-Cookie called, running up to him. “You ready to pass the next trial?” He said with an encouraging grin. Poison Mushroom Cookie returned the smile with equal excitement. “Uh-huh! I bet it’s gonna be lots of fun!” The smaller Cookie cheered. Red Velvet Cookie chuckled warmly, “Well… I just hope we don’t have to fight any more Ginkgoblins today,” he said, trying to discreetly place his Cookie hand against his side. The pain was flaring up again, going from a soreness to a burning sensation. Poison Mushroom Cookie noticed. “Does it still hurt where that Ginkgoblin shot you?” He said, looking up at him with wide eyes.

Red Velvet Cookie groaned softly, “A little…” He tried to smile to hide his discomfort, “But a warrior doesn’t let a little nick like that keep him down!” Poison Mushroom Cookie seemed convinced. “Gee, Red Velvet Cookie, you sure have gotten a lot braver ever since you got your Cake arm,” he remarked. “Hahaha, I’m not sure if it’s the Cake parts or just the fact that I survived certain death. We all did,” he replied with a warm smile. The two soon made it downstairs, where Licorice, Pomegranate, and Schwarzwälder were waiting. Pomegranate was excitedly talking a mile a minute while Licorice Cookie was looking over the book again. Bat-Cat sat on the countertop lapping from a small bowl of milk. Schwarzwälder was leaning against the bar with his arms crossed over his chest and impatiently tapping his foot. He caught sight of the Cake-Cookie and fungus-flavored Cookie and huffed, “Well, it’s about time!” The brute bellowed, “What took you guys so long?” Licorice Cookie gently placed a hand on the Werehound’s side, never looking up from the book, “Schwarzwälder… Patience… We aren’t going to be kicked out of the Trials for getting a later start.”

The Werehound huffed in response. “Someone’s antsy to begin…” Bat-Cat mewed. Schwarzwälder placed his hand on the bar and leaned in slightly with a smile on his face, “I heard from some of the villagers that the next Trial is just making it through the desert. With how easy the last one was, this will be a piece of Cake! We’ll make it to Hero’s Gate in no time!” he cheered. Licorice Cookie finally looked up from the book, “Trekking through the desert won’t be easy, Schwarzwälder. That means having to trudge through miles of hot sand under a relentless scorching sun.” Pomegranate Cookie looked at Schwarzwälder and his thick chocolate coat of fur, “Are you sure you’re cut out for that sort of thing, Choco Werehound Brute?” She said with a hint of worry in her voice. The Werehound snorted, “I appreciate the concern, Pomegranate Cookie, but I’m a warrior! Choco Werehound Brute can handle ANYTHING! It’s you little Cookies I’m worried about. You sure the heat won’t cause your pretty icing to melt?” Pomegranate Cookie snickered and held up her mirror, she looked into it and started messing with her hair as she smiled. “I may not be a warrior, but I’m tougher than I look, Choco Werehound,” She replied with a smile.

“I can vouch for that.”

Pomegranate Cookie turned to see Dark Choco Cookie enter the room, followed by a small group of female villagers who were… Ogling. Licorice Cookie blinked, “Um… Dark Choco Cookie,” he said, “Why aren’t you wearing a shirt?” Dark Choco Cookie stood in the center of the room, his bare chest revealing a number of scars all over his body. The small group of girl Cookies was fawning over his muscular structure and battle scars. “He was training,” Red Velvet answered for him. “It’s some… Old habit of his.” Dark Choco Cookie snorted, “I’m used to colder temperatures, alright? I can’t risk getting overheated while I’m training. I had to loosen up before the next trial,” He replied, placing his arms behind his head and stretching. (This caused the small group of females to squeal softly as they watched his chest muscles flex.) Pomegranate Cookie rolled her eyes and hopped off her chair. She grabbed Dark Choco Cookie by the hand with her magic and started pulling him away. “Alright, now that you’re all stretched out, why don’t you go get dressed? Some of our teammates are a bit anxious to get started,” she said, nodding toward Schwarzwälder. “Not nearly as anxious as I am, I’m sure. I’m so close to finding my father now I can almost taste it!” Dark Choco Cookie exclaimed, balling his hand into a determined fist and looking off into space with an almost childlike expression of glee on his face.

“You heard him, trial participants at work, now shoo!” Pomegranate Cookie called over her shoulder to the small group of annoyed girls, who huffed in irritation and slowly dispersed mumbling and calling Pomegranate Cookie a few names under their breath. Dark Choco Cookie rushed off to his room upstairs and Red Velvet couldn’t help but chuckle at the whole ordeal. “Uhhhh, Does Dark Choco Cookie always take his shirt off to train?” Licorice Cookie asked. “Almost always,” Pomegranate Cookie replied, picking up her glass of soda and taking a small sip.

“Good morning, my friends!” Healer Cookie exclaimed as he slowly walked into the room, carefully moving his staff in front of him as he approached the bar. “Hey, Healer Cookie! You ready for the next Trial?” Red Velvet Cookie asked. “We’ve gotta travel through the desert,” Poison Mushroom Cookie said. “Well, I believe that as long as we stick together we Cookies can do anything! Besides, good luck is on our side today, my friends!” The blind healer exclaimed excitedly. “What makes you say that, Healer Cookie?” Pomegranate Cookie asked. “When I woke up this morning, I could hear the Blueberry Birds singing outside my window. Surely that is a good sign,” Healer Cookie replied with a smile. He tilted his head, “Where is Rye Cookie? I thought she would be here to see us off.” Red Velvet Cookie blinked in surprise, “How did you know she wasn’t here?”

“She has a very distinct laugh,” Healer Cookie replied. “Loud and warm… Reminds me of an old friend of mine,” he said softly. Sugary Juice Cookie reappeared from behind the bar, cleaning a glass with a rag. “She left last night with Wheat Cake. Something about tracking down a criminal… She sounded pretty serious, must be someone important,” he said, sitting the glass down on a shelf. “Cookies like Rye Cookie never rest until justice is served! As a warrior I greatly respect that,” Dark Choco Cookie said, reappearing now fully dressed in his armor and cape, with Pomegranate Cookie skipping behind him. “Well, if we’re heading out into the desert, we’re gonna need to be prepared,” Licorice Cookie said, “Hey, Sugary Juice Cookie, can you whip us up some extra drinks for the road? Something extra hydrating?” The red-haired Cookie smiled. “I’ve got just the thing to help y’all fight the desert heat!” he said, sliding a light pink drink over to Red Velvet. “This is what Rye Cookie uses whenever she has to do stakeouts in the desert.”

Red Velvet popped the lid and took a sip. “Mmmm, kinda tastes like strawberry milkshake.” Sugary Juice Cookie chuckled, “Kinda is, it's milk mixed with several extra-hydrating berries. Little known fact, milk is actually very hydrating. And the extra vitamins and protein will give you guys the energy you’ll need to make the journey… Um…” Sugary Juice Cookie looked around. “Are you guys sure you think you can do it? The next Trial is known for being insanely difficult, no one who’s taken on the challenge of the Hero’s Gate Trials has ever made it past the second Trial.” The group grew quiet. Red Velvet Cookie took another sip of the Berry Milk, “Well…” He slowly smiled, and stood up, “We’re going to be the very first!” The confidence in his voice quickly spread over the rest of the group, who cheered and voiced their agreement. Sugary Juice Cookie smiled. There was something different about this group, yes they showed the same enthusiasm that all the other challengers did, but they had a certain kind of bond, they weren’t just adventurers seeking a thrill or glory. They weren’t any ordinary team with a defined leader and an obvious level of authority. They were all friends. They looked after each other and built each other up.

He gave them each a handful of drinks and tried to refuse payment, insisting it was on him. But Dark Choco Cookie wasn’t having it. He smiled as he watched them leave, excitedly laughing and cheering. He returned to wiping down the bar, feeling a bit sad. How strong their bond was, it reminded him of… He shook his head. He couldn't be thinking about her right now. It was too painful to remember the look of fear on her face as those monsters wrapped the bandages around her eyes. “Sugary Juice Cookie! RUN!” He wiped away a single tear from his eye as her final words of sentience rang in his head. He sighed, he was grateful the desert was too hot for Cremlins, the worst they had to deal with was the Ginkgoblins, and with most of them locked up, maybe things would get a little more peaceful around here for a little while.

SLAM!

Sugary Juice Cookie yelped in surprise as the door suddenly slammed open so fast it almost came off the hinges. “Sugary Juice Cookie! It’s horrible! It’s terrible! It’s unspeakable! The Ginkgoblins have escaped from the jail!”

Or… Maybe not.

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“How’s about a special good luck charm? Guaranteed to bring you through the desert safely!”

“Or some snacks for the desert road? Buy one get one free!”

“Or how about some spf 150 sunscreen? Protect your dough from the harsh sun’s rays!”

Licorice Cookie rolled his eyes, “Sunscreen only goes up to 100 spf.” Bat-Cat flew out of Licorice Cookie’s hood and hissed at the SalesCookies. “Alright, get! Shoo! Don’t make meow use the claws!” That seemed to get them to back up. Licorice Cookie sighed, “Honestly, these Cookies. If they’re not cheering us on, they’re trying to sell us something.” A small Cookie in a tan hood appeared from behind him. “Hey, a Cookie’s gotta make a living. Buy some sand?” He said, holding up a vial of sand. “No…” Everyone deadpanned. The Cookie sighed and walked away grumbling.

“Is everyone ready?” Red Velvet Cookie asked. “Ready!” The rest of the group cheered. “Hey, where is Elder Waffle Cone Cookie? I thought the elders were overseeing the trials. Shouldn’t they be here to see us off?” The Cake-Cookie asked. “No one’s seen them since last night,” One of the villagers said. “That’s strange,” Pomegranate Cookie said, hiding her mouth behind her sleeve. Dark Choco Cookie looked down the trail, “They’re probably waiting for us at the end of the road, to give us the final Trial,” he reasoned. The others nodded in agreement, yeah that made sense. Dark Choco Cookie stood, staring at the path ahead of him. All of the sudden he felt butterflies in his stomach, he hadn’t been this anxious since his first time on the front lines of a battle. His heart pounded in his chest and beads of sweat were forming on his brow, but not from the heat, despite the fact you could see heat waves rising up from the ground. He felt a small hand on his side and looked down to see Pomegranate Cookie smiling reassuringly at him.

His anxiety quickly melted away as he smiled back, the rest of his friends were taking their positions as they prepared to set off. Dark Choco Cookie took a deep breath and slowly drew his sword. “Cookies,” he said, pointing his sword down the path, “Onward!” With that cue, they all sprinted down the path, the villagers cheering “goodbye” and “good luck”. They continued cheering until the group disappeared into the horizon.

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The air was dry and the road was rough and cracked, but the Cookies’ spirits were light despite the heat. Schwarzwälder would give the softer Cookies rides on his back to help them keep their energy up. Dark Choco, Red Velvet, and Licorice led the way with Licorice reading from the book. “The Sugar-Free Road, named so for being anything but sweet, is a dangerous path no novice adventurer should travel. Even the most seasoned of explorers have only ever made it halfway, before mysteriously disappearing or… having to be airlifted out of the desert,” he read aloud, his voice growing an octave higher in concern. “As a result, the local townspeople created the Hero’s Trials to keep the less able-bodied Cookies from attempting this dangerous trek. The only known group who has ever successfully traveled the path from beginning to end was the Five Ancient Cookie Heroes. Hmmm. And according to legend, the only reason they made it out alive was because Golden Cheese Cookie used one of her wing feathers to bless a small section of the path to create an oasis that still serves as a landmark for travelers to this day.”

Dark Choco Cookie looked over at the book. “Really? I don’t remember Father telling me about that. What else does the book say?” Licorice Cookie scanned over the page again, “Uh… Hollyberry saved a baby Cream Eagle and something about White Lily Cookie getting heat exhaustion and trying to hug a cactus.” Dark Choco Cookie snorts, “Yup, that sounds like my Auntie.” Red Velvet Cookie looked up at the older warrior, “Hey Dark Choco Cookie, when we find your dad, what’s the first thing you’re gonna do?” He asked with a smile. Dark Choco Cookie sighed happily, “In all honesty I’ve been thinking about that a lot myself. Ten years I’ve been searching… A lot can change in that much time.” Healer Cookie spoke up, “I myself have been thinking about reuniting with my old friends! I haven’t remembered much more about them. But I remember one had a warm laugh, one had excellent taste in jewelry, one was… The more serious type and…” He trailed off, smiling warmly. “Her… My most special friend.” He sighed, “I know you’re out there somewhere, my darling.”

Red Velvet smiled at the blind healer. “I’m sure you’ll find your friends too, Healer Cookie!” Pomegranate Cookie stood next to him. “Any luck remembering their names, or perhaps your real name?” she asked. Healer Cookie shook his head, “No, nothing like that yet, but soon. I’m sure of it.” Healer Cookie suddenly froze as he felt a breeze blow by. There was a new presence that his heightened senses could feel. He spun around, not that it would help, he couldn't see who it was. “Healer Cookie what’s…?” Licorice Cookie started to say, before Schwarzwälder placed a hand over his mouth and shushed him. Chiffon had his ears back, Red Velvet Cookie was smelling the air, and Schwarzwälder was baring his teeth and growling softly. The Cakes were on high alert, and everyone knew that was a sign to be prepared for anything.

Something scampered by again, disappearing behind the rocks. Dark Choco Cookie drew his sword and spun around. But before he could catch sight of the creature, he felt a sharp pain in the back of his neck and let out a cry of pain and surprise. His hand went to the back of his neck, expecting to feel a bug bite or something of the like. But he felt something sticking out of his neck, he pulled it out and his eyes widened as he saw it was a dart. His eyes were starting to grow heavy, his vision was blurring, he had passed out before he hit the ground. “Dark Choco Cookie!” Pomegranate Cookie shouted, she ran up to him but ended up receiving a dart to the back of her head as well. She groaned and fell forward, her hand brushing against Dark Choco’s as she landed.

The rest of the team didn’t have enough time to react. Healer Cookie fell, so did Red Velvet. When Licorice Cookie ended up with a dart in his arm, Bat-Cat flew out of his hood and looked around in panic. His friends were dropping like flies, even Schwarzwälder was starting to sway. The flying feline looked over to the only Cookie who hadn’t been hit. Poison Mushroom Cookie. Without thinking, Bat-Cat grabbed Poison Mushroom Cookie by the sleeve and started dragging him away. Poison Mushroom Cookie started crying and reaching for the unconscious Licorice Cookie behind him. Now that he was aware of the danger, Bat-Cat could use his supersonic hearing to track the darts and pull Poison Mushroom Cookie out of the way before he got hit. Bat-Cat looked back, he could see the triplets trying to shake their Master awake but they too fell to their unseen attackers.

Bat-Cat managed to pull Poison Mushroom Cookie behind a pile of rocks and sit him down, with much difficulty. Poison Mushroom Cookie kept fighting him, shouting and crying that they had to go back for Licorice Cookie and their friends. Bat-Cat placed his paw over his mouth and shushed him. Bat-Cat carefully peeked over the rocks and watched. Everyone was lying on the ground unconscious. He groaned loudly. His mind was racing as he was trying to think of a way they could get back to them without being spotted and rescue his friends from… Whatever that was. But he was panicking too much to think clearly. “What do we do?” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked fearfully. “I… I don’t know, ok!? Just… give meow a second,” He was trying to use his supersonic hearing to listen for sounds that could tell him where the darts had come from. He heard footsteps coming from… Right behind him!

Poison Mushroom Cookie screamed when he felt a hand on his shoulder, he spun around and a gloved hand was placed against his mouth to silence him. “Relax, kiddo. It’s me.” Bat-Cat had unsheathed his claws but he quickly retracted them and sighed in relief. “Rye Cookie! Oh thank goodness it’s you!” Rye Cookie smiled and removed her hand from Poison Mushroom’s mouth. Wheat Cake stood next to her with his usual annoyed expression, like everything was an inconvenience to him. Poison Mushroom Cookie smiled, “Oh, I thought you were someone scary… Like whoever did that to our friends.” He pointed to the small area they’d just escaped from and Rye Cookie looked over the rocks and hissed through gritted teeth. Bat-Cat peeked over and saw as well, “Wha… Ginkgoblins?”

A small group of Ginkgoblins were gathering up the unconscious Cookies, tying them up with ropes and tossing Chiffon and the triplets into small cages. Wheat Cake looked over as well. “Wait, that one there with the bandage… And, that one with the scar on the side of his face… Rye Cookie, these are the same Ginkgoblins we locked up yesterday!” Rye Cookie’s jaw dropped. “What? How is that even possible?” She snapped. Wheat Cake crossed his arms over his chest. “Hey! Don’t blame me for this! I had the key in the desk where we always keep it! The only way they could have got out is if someone broke into the jail and set ‘em loose!” Poison Mushroom Cookie’s eyes widened in horror. “Someone set the Ginkgoblins free?!” he wailed. “And now they’re kidnapping our frrriends!” Bat-Cat exclaimed, looking over to the group. He was roughly pulled out of the air with a yelp. Rye Cookie held the flying feline in a firm grip, “Hey! Keep yer head down!” She ordered. “We don’t want ‘em spottin’ us,” she sighed, “I know who set ‘em loose.” Poison Mushroom Cookie gasped, “You do? Who?”

Rye Cookie reached into her pocket and pulled out a cloth with a small seed in it. A chili pepper seed. “That blasted spicy thief, that’s who. Wheat Cake found this in the alleyways last night. It’s one of her seeds, that red-haired bandit’s hair is covered in ‘em. Sometimes they drop off when she’s in a hurry. She’s been leaving a spicy trail for me to follow that always leads to a dead end for years,” she growled, looking as if she would love nothing more than to grind the seed beneath her heel. “You mean, Chili Pepper Cookie?” Bat-Cat asked, “The Cookies of Night are here?!” Rye Cookie nods, “Trust me, I know her scent like the back of my hand. It’s her… And she’s the one responsible for breakin’ those troublemakers out of jail! I’d bet ma bottom coin on it!”

“But why would she let the Ginkgoblins go?” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked. “Obviously they’re in cahoots! She set’s ‘em free and they kidnap your friends! You guys have been a kink in their plans, if the Ginkgoblins help get y’all out of the picture they’ve got a free ride to snatch up the treasures of Hero’s Gate! And the Ginkgoblins get payback for y’all roughin’ ‘em up the other day.”

“How did this happen?” Wheat Cake demanded. “How did they manage to defeat you all? They even bested the Cakes, how is that possible!? You guys have beat them twice before!” Bat-Cat’s ears flattened against his head. “They had the element of surprise this time,” he mewed sadly. “And these,” Poison Mushroom Cookie said, removing a dart from his shoulder sleeve. The thick fabric of his robes had protected him from the dart hitting his dough. Rye Cookie took the dart from him and examined it, turning it over in her hand a few times. “This was tipped with a powerful sleeping toxin. Just one little nick with one of these things and you’ll be out like a light almost immediately.”

“That’s some pretty powerful stuff. High quality, it’s near impossible to find even on the black market,” Wheat Cake remarked. “But I thought you said Ginkgoblins didn’t have high-quality weapons?” Bat-Cat mewed in confusion. Rye Cookie’s face grew dark, “They don’t… Not unless they’re supplied by the head honcho,” she replied gravely. “Who’s Head Honcho?” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked. “She means the Ginkgoblins’ boss, Poison Mushroom Cookie,” Bat-Cat replied. Rye Cookie nodded. “If they’ve got their boss’ good tools, then that means they had direct orders from him to attack and capture you and your friends.” Poison Mushroom Cookie and Bat-Cat looked at each other in worry. “Looks like you two are the only ones who made it out,” Wheat Cake replied, looking over the rocks. “But I don’t think they’ve noticed. They’re leavin’ now… Draggin’ yer friends behind ‘em.” Poison Mushroom Cookie gasped and scrambled over the rocks to see his friends, tied up and with the Ginkgoblins carrying them off. Some of the bigger members of the teams were being loaded onto wooden carts. “Oh no! What do we do!” Poison Mushroom Cookie shrieked. “Where are they taking Meowster and the others?” Bat-Cat shouted.

“If the Ginkgoblin boss was the one who ordered their capture, then they’ll most likely be takin’ ‘em back to their base. Don’t worry, I know this desert like the back of mah hand. I know a shortcut to their hideout,” Rye Cookie said with a smile. “You do?” Poison Mushroom Cookie and Bat-Cat said in unison. Rye Cookie nodded. “Follow me, and stay close,” she said, turning and running into a gorge. “Yay!” Poison Mushroom Cookie cheered, jumping excitedly and following after her. Bat-Cat flew close behind. Wheat Cake sighed, “Of all the blasted biscuits in that group, we had to end up with Mush for Brains.” He then begrudgingly followed after.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Uh… Ugh…” Red Velvet Cookie groaned as his eyes fluttered open. His vision was blurry and his head hurt. “Where am I?” He slurred as he slowly regained consciousness. “Oh, hey, you’re up.” Red Velvet Cookie turned to see a very dejected-looking Licorice Cookie with his arms tied to his side with rope. The same rope was wrapped around Red Velvet Cookie, rendering both his Cookie and Cake arm immobilized. He was also in a very awkward position, his head on the ground and his legs leaned against a tree, he was almost laying upside down. (That explained the headache.) Red Velvet started to struggle against the restraints but it was no use, the ropes were tied too tight around his chest and stomach. Looking around, he saw the rest of his friends were tied up as well. Who could have done this? Then he saw them.

“Ginkgoblins!” Red Velvet snapped when he noticed the small group of thieves rummaging through their bags. All their weapons had been tossed in a pile, from Red Velvet's sword to Pomegranate's mirror. And the Ginkgoblins were smiling from beneath their bandanas and chuckling. “Oooh, look, the cutie-patooties are finally awake,” one of them quipped. “Let us go! Right now!” Red Velvet Cookie demanded, more out of desperation than anything else, but he hoped the tone in his voice would be enough to intimidate them. It wasn’t. One of the Ginkgoblins walked up to him, tossing and catching his dagger. “Sorry, no can do, kiddo. While technically this is personal, this is also a direct order from the boss. So even if I wanted to let you go, I couldn’t,” the bandit said, getting an inch from Red Velvet Cookie’s face. He could smell his hot rancid breath even through his bandana. Red Velvet gagged slightly and turned away. “You little treats have made a lotta trouble for us, first interrupting our toll blockade and then getin’ us all locked up in the slammer! Ginkster has been itching to meet ya little goody two shoes ever since we’ve told him about ya,” he said, holding up his dagger to Red Velvet’s face. “You don’t scare me, and neither does your boss!” The warrior in training snapped back. The Ginkgoblin chuckled, "Oooooh, feisty aren't we?" Red Velvet Cookie growled like a Cake.

"Arf! Arf! Arf!"

Red Velvet turned to see Chiffon trapped in a small cage and chewing at the bars. Licorice Cookie's Minions were also all shoved into a small cage, one was crying. Licorice and Red Velvet gasped. "Chiffon!” Red Velvet shouted. “Hey! Hey! Licorina, look at me! It's gonna be ok, Daddy's here," Licorice Cookie said, attempting to soothe his frightened minion. He turned to the Ginkgoblins with fire in his eyes. “I thought Rye Cookie had you all locked up! How did you escape?!" The Ginkgoblin began admiring his reflection in his dagger. “We had a little help. Some nice Cookies in hoods and cloaks helped us out.”

"Cookies in hoods and cloaks?" Dark Choco Cookie said, raising an eyebrow. “Yup, didn't get their names and couldn't see their faces so don't ask. They just sprung us and left. Maybe the boss sent 'em, who knows? But what matters is we've got you lot of Dough Babies right where we want ya now!” he snickered. "You and your little friends!” A female Ginkgoblin said, holding up the cages that held Chiffon and the Licorice Triplets. Red Velvet Cookie growled. "What do you want from us? Haven't we proven we can best you guys already? You're just asking for another beating." Red Velvet Cookie hoped he sounded intimidating enough. He really wasn't in the position to make threats, but hopefully, the Ginkgoblins were scared enough of them by this point that he could twist their arm enough to get them to let him and his friends go.

It seemed to be working a little, some of the Ginkgoblins were nervously whispering to one another. But the leader of the group gave them a stern glare to silence them, before turning back to Red Velvet. “Sorry, half-breed, but what the boss wants the boss gits. And the boss wants to see you little sweetie-meeties up close an’ personal. So are ya gonna come quietly, or are we gonna have to do this the hard way?” The Ginkgoblin said, holding a pistol up to Red Velvet’s face. The Cake-Cookie glared into the barrel of the pistol from his upside-down position. “You don’t scare me with your little flaxseed bullet gun,” he growled. The Ginkgoblin chuckled. “Oh, this ain’t a Flaxseed Gun, buddy. The boss provided us with some pistols from his own personal stockpile, check this out.” The Ginkgoblin pointed the pistol at a nearby cactus and fired. The arm of the cactus was blown clean off. Red Velvet Cookie's face went pale. The Ginkgoblin aimed his pistol between the Cake-Cookie's eyes.

"That'll be your head next if ya don't come quietly," he said in a dangerous, low voice. Red Velvet tried to put on a brave face but beads of sweat were starting to roll down his face. Before he could respond, Dark Choco Cookie spoke up. “Fine… We’ll go with you.” Red Velvet’s jaw dropped and he turned to the warrior who was tied up next to Pomegranate Cookie. “What?!” He whispered in disbelief. The Ginkgoblin laughed. “Now that’s more like it. Load up their goodies in the cart boys. Once you’re finished, help me bind their hands so they don’t get any funny ideas,” he said, still keeping his pistol pointed at Red Velvet Cookie. Despite having the upper hand at the moment, there was still a bit of nervousness in the Ginkgoblin’s eyes as he looked at Red Velvet Cookie. His black Cake eye gave him the willies. It felt like he was staring into the abyss… And the abyss was staring back at him. He shuddered. The sooner they passed these freaks off to their boss the better. He took the first excuse to leave his position he could find. Even tied up, he didn’t want to be anywhere near that monster.

Red Velvet Cookie continued to struggle against the ropes as the Ginkgoblins shifted their focus from their captives to loading up their stolen weapons. "Red Velvet, stop," Dark Choco Cookie whispered. "Not yet, save your energy for when an opportunity to escape presents itself. It's too risky right now." Red Velvet gave him a look. "They're distracted! When's a better time to escape gonna present itself?” Dark Choco Cookie shook his head. "They still have the blow darts," he said, nodding to the small pile of Blow Dart Rods the Ginkgoblins were ignoring at the moment. “Even if we get out of these bindings, they'll just tranquilize us and recapture us again. We have to wait until we can escape and defeat them," he said, looking over at the Ginkgoblins who were admiring their bounty as they carelessly tossed the weapons into a rickety wooden cart. Pomegranate Cookie smiled at Red Velvet Cookie, "Don't worry, Dark Choco and I have been in these sort of situations before. Just keep your head down and keep an eye on your surroundings. We'll find a way, together."

Red Velvet couldn't help but smile a bit. He looked over at his friends, they all seemed to be reassured by Pomegranate's words, except Licorice Cookie, who hadn't heard a word and had been inching closer to the cages that held his captured Minions. "Licorice, no!" Dark Choco whisper-shouted. "Sorry, Dark Choco, but I'm with Master Licorice on this one," Schwarzwälder said, "Choco Werehound Brute isn't going to wait around and let those crooks just march us into their lair without a fight!" The Werehound then began gnawing on the ropes that were keeping his arms pinned at his side. "You two need to stop! You're going to get the Ginkgoblin's attention and then…"

It was too late, Schwarzwälder had already ripped up a good deal of the ropes, he almost had himself free. But the noise of the rope tearing did indeed alert the Ginkgoblins just like Dark Choco Cookie said it would. One of them yelped and grabbed a large rod. Before Schwarzwälder could finish freeing himself, the Ginkgoblin rushed up to him with the rod and jabbed it into his side. The tip of the rod came alive with sparks and electric flashes and Schwarzwälder threw his head back and howled in pain. Licorice Cookie gasped in horror, "Schwarzwälder!" The Werehound collapsed to the ground, twitching and groaning in pain. The Ginkgoblin turned to the wide-eyed Cookies and pointed the rod at them. "Anyone else wanna try that?" She sneered. Pomegranate Cookie hid behind Dark Choco ever so slightly. Red Velvet growled softly. Dark Choco Cookie started speaking with the Ginkgoblins to de-escalate the situation. Licorice Cookie watched his Cake with tears forming in his eyes. He looked around for Poison Mushroom Cookie, surely the sight had traumatized the poor thing, but to the Dark Wizard's horror, he couldn't find him.

"Guys," Licorice Cookie whispered, “Poison Mushroom Cookie's missing!" Red Velvet Cookie shuffled around until he fell to his side, now lying sideways instead of upside down, he turned to Licorice Cookie. "Maybe he found a way to escape while the Ginkgoblins were distracted," he whispered back. "Actually, I don't think I've seen him since we woke up. I don't think he was captured," Pomegranate Cookie whispered. The Licorice Triplets started squeaking. "Bat-Cat's not with you guys either?" Licorice said. Chiffon gave a reaffirming bark. "That's good, they may be able to find a way to help us,” Dark Choco Cookie remarked as the Ginkgoblins turned their attention back to gathering another set of ropes. “We’re betting our freedom on Poison Mushroom Cookie? Really?” Red Velvet Cookie said with a sigh. “H-hey…” Schwarzwälder said, still panting from the shock, “L-let’s have a little faith in the little guy… I made the mistake of… Ugh... Underestimating him once. There’s a lot more to Shroomy than… Meets the eye.” Licorice Cookie nodded in agreement. “Besides, he’s got Bat-Cat with him. My little buddy has enough brains for the two of them,” he said with a chuckle. “Courage my friends,” Healer Cookie said softly, “We’ll find a way out of this one way or another.”

The Ginkgoblins untied them and then bound their wrists together, creating a chain link between them with the rope. That way if one of them tried to escape, they’d be held back by being attached to the others. “Just go along with it, keep your eyes open, no sudden movements,” Dark Choco Cookie whispered to Red Velvet Cookie. The Cake-Cookie nervously nodded and focused on staring straight ahead. He tried to find a way out but escape seemed impossible now… He just had to trust that Dark Choco Cookie had a plan or that Poison Mushroom Cookie and Bat-Cat would find them. They walked for some time under the hot sun, Red Velvet glanced at his stolen bag wistfully, he really wished he could dig one of his berry milks or his water bottle out of it. But his mind was soon taken off the heat as they passed through a gorge and stepped into a town on the other side.

“Woah,” Red Velvet Cookie breathed softly. This didn’t look like a thieves’ headquarters, it looked more like a village. He looked around as the Ginkgoblins who had captured them started loudly cheering and announcing their arrival. Schwarzwälder kept glaring at any Ginkgoblin who dared look his way as they were marched through the street. Dark Choco Cookie kept his gaze forward and his expression stoic, refusing to make eye contact. But Red Velvet Cookie couldn’t help but feel curious. Some of the other Ginkgoblins in the village… There was something different about these. Their outfits were different, some seemed frightened as they walked through the town. Red Velvet saw doors slam and one Ginkgoblin back into a wall as she seemed to be trying to get away. Others looked on with disinterest or an expression of worry. Some children who had been playing in the streets dropped their toys and ran. Red Velvet saw one Ginkgoblin boy run into his Mother’s arms crying, she swept him up and ran into a hut, slamming the door behind her. There was a smell in the air… Not the overpowering musky smell the Ginkgoblins seemed to carry with them (although that was prevalent). This smell was sharp and tangy.

Fear.

These Ginkgoblins were afraid.

Red Velvet suddenly found himself feeling very self-conscious, although he wasn’t sure if it was him they were staring at… Or. “Hey! Hey! Hey! Check out the bounty he brought back for the boss ‘eh? Won’t Ginkster be proud of the fortune we made ‘em today. Check the jewels on some of these doodads, gotta be worth quite a bit huh?” One of the thieves said proudly. “Hey, do ya think the boss will give us a bigger cut if we tell ‘em we fought ‘em off first?” A younger Ginkgoblin asked. Red Velvet kept looking around, the villagers’ reactions were so strange. They didn’t seem to share their enthusiasm. Suddenly Red Velvet heard a new sound, Schwarzwälder and Chiffon picked up on it as well. Soon it was loud enough for the other Cookies to hear it as well. The roar of an engine. Then a large vehicle came rumbling through the town, it could best be described as a souped-up monster truck. Part vehicle, part weapon. The Ginkgoblin riding it wore a pair of sharp sunshades and had a yellow-and-red mohawk. He laughed maniacally as he ran into the side of a building and flattened a flower bush. (The Ginkgoblin who had been watering the flowers the moment before glared angrily at the machine and its rider.) The Monster Truck skidded to a stop, scattering sand and causing Red Velvet and his friends to have to turn away and shut their eyes. Red Velvet gritted his teeth as sharp pebbles and debris cut into his dough. He looked up at the shade-wearing Ginkgoblin and growled.

He looked down at his smiling group of underlings as they proudly presented the captured Cookies and Cakes. “Well, well, well, so you’re the little group of Treat Tots that have been making so much trouble for my clan, huh? I’ve gotta say I’m impressed… You little fellas don’t usually put up so much of a fight.” Red Velvet Cookie glared at the Ginkgoblin and looked over at Dark Choco Cookie, hoping for a cue of some sort. Dark Choco Cookie continued to stare up at the Ginkgoblin boss, his expression serious. He had no response. Red Velvet Cookie decided to follow his lead, he bared his teeth and growled, showing he refused to be intimidated. The Ginkgoblin boss lowered his sunglasses so he could see Red Velvet Cookie more clearly. “Ok, seriously… What is that?” He said pointing at Red Velvet Cookie. “Wha… What is this dude?!” He said starting to laugh, the other Ginkgoblins joined in. “Could the Witch who made him not decide on making a Cake or a Cookie and was just like, ‘ah screw it I’ll do both at the same time’ and then toss ‘em out the window when she saw how ugly he was?!” The Ginkgoblins laughed harder. Ok, now Red Velvet Cookie’s jam was boiling. “Actually!” He began but was stopped by Dark Choco Cookie placing a hand on his shoulder. “Don’t respond to that,” the prince said softly. Red Velvet Cookie took a few deep breaths and tried to ignore the Ginkgoblins’ laughter.

Licorice Cookie hissed through his teeth. “Why I oughta!” He dived forward, forgetting about his bindings in the moment of blind rage. This caused him to pull Red Velvet Cookie forward as they were tied together. “Licorice Cookie!” Red Velvet Cookie dug his foot into the dirt and pulled back, “Stop!” The two pulling against each other caused them to lose their balance, and they both fell down, almost landing on top of one another. Pomegranate Cookie was almost pulled to the ground as well, but Dark Choco Cookie held onto her and leaned back, causing an end to the domino effect. The Ginkgoblins only laughed again at the sight of the Cookies tumbling and flailing. “And where’d you get this guy? A landfill?” Ginkster said, looking down at Licorice Cookie. Licorice Cookie felt tears fill his eyes, that comment hurt much worse than the pain of falling to the ground. His mind went back to the day he was baked and he covered his face with his hood. His chest heaving up and down as he tried to fight back sobs. “What do you want with us, Ginkster?” Dark Choco Cookie said, finally speaking up. “Well, your valuables for one thing… I’ve got that now. But also, you little fellas got a lotta fight in you don’t cha?” He placed his hands behind his head and put his feet up on the dashboard of his vehicle. “I respect that, I like a good tussle. But you’ve been more than tussling with ma boys, you’ve been whopping ‘em. Hehehe, well… Looks like we got the drop on y’all this time though didn’t we?”

The Ginkgoblins laughed again. Red Velvet Cookie tried to ignore them as he helped Licorice Cookie get back to his feet. “What are we gonna do with ‘em, boss?” One of them asked excitedly. “Quiet Pipsqueak! I’m thinkin’! Mmmmmm… Now I think we’ll keep the pretty one for ourselves, what do you think boys?” He said, looking down at Pomegranate Cookie, who hugged Dark Choco Cookie in fear as she saw the Ginkgoblins look at her evilly. “And that Werehound in the back there… Critters like them can fetch a heavy price in the Underground Cake Fights…” Schwarzwälder growled angrily.

“What are Cake Fights?” Licorice Cookie whispered to Pomegranate Cookie. “Illegal betting match between two Cakes… Where they fight to the death,” she whispered gravely. “What!? Why? Why would someone do that?!” Red Velvet Cookie asked in horror. “Sick entertainment, money, some Cookies come from a pretty bad batch,” Pomegranate Cookie replied sadly. “What about this cripple?” A Ginkgoblin said, shaking Healer Cookie roughly. “Worthless… Just toss ‘em back into the desert,” Ginkster said with a dismissive wave of his hand. “What!? Are you crazy? Healer Cookie’s blind! He’ll never survive out there on his own!” Red Velvet Cookie shouted. “Not my problem,” Ginkster said cruelly. Red Velvet Cookie felt the jam rushing to his head, he growled loudly, his voice had a deep undertone to it as he spoke. “HOW DARE YOU!” He shouted, practically roaring. Some of the Ginkgoblins backed up and whimpered. “You are the single worst person I’ve ever met in my entire life! You have no respect for anyone else's life or belongings! You are a slimy, low-down, no-good crook! I hope when Rye Cookie finds you she locks you up and throws away the key!”

One of the Ginkgoblins raised a dagger to Red Velvet’s throat. “HEY! Watch yourself, half-breed! No one gits ta speak to da boss dat way!” She shrieked. “What do ya think boss? Think the freakshow would be interested in this one?” Another Ginkgoblin snickered. Red Velvet Cookie growled. Chiffon started barking angrily, how dare they disrespect his Cookie that way? Red Velvet was seeing red, he was ready to rip through the ropes and tear every one of their throats out. But there was something holding him back, and the feeling got stronger as he listened to them mock him.

Monster. Freak. Half-breed. Mistake. Weirdo. Unnatural. Mutt.

All the insults rang over in his head again and again, long after the laughter had died down. He was beginning to remember what had happened the previous times he’d given into his Cake instincts… Sometimes he got hurt. Sometimes his friends got hurt. What if he accidentally scratched them while tearing through the ropes? What if he lost control and ended up making things worse like back at the Apiary? He stood there frozen, the sounds and smells washing over him and him barely registering them. It’s like he was frozen in time, just watching, as a spectator in his own body. He barely heard Licorice yelling at the Ginkgoblins, “Keep your grubby little hands off my Minions!” He barely felt the Ginkgoblins blows as they shoved him and jeered. But he did notice the shadow in the alleyway behind the Ginkgoblin boss. And he smiled. The small Cookie smiled back and waved. “You little Cookies… You make me laugh, always acting like you're so tough. You forget how easy it is to crumble you little treats, hahaha!” Red Velvet’s resolve returned and he looked up at the Ginkgoblin boss. “Sorry to rain on your parade, but… There’s something you need to know about us Cookies. Yes, alone we may be small and weak, but together we’re stronger than any challenge that comes our way, and guess what?” He smiled as he watched the small Cookie come out of the alleyway, carrying something in his arms. “We always come in batches!” Red Velvet Cookie shouted.

Poison Mushroom Cookie threw his Shroomies and they exploded, scattering a cloud of purple haze and covering the ground, sending anyone who didn’t have protection over their faces into a coughing fit. The other Cookies gasped as they saw their friend running through the haze to meet them. “Poison Mushroom Cookie!” Licorice Cookie cheered, almost being knocked back by the force of the shorter Cookie tackle-hugging him. Licorice Cookie smiled down at him and jumped as he felt something on his shoulder, he turned and grinned. “Meowster,” Bat-Cat said with a coy grin as if he had just returned from his daily flight around the Kingdom. “Bat-Cat! Oh boy are we glad to see you two!” He said, holding up his bound hands. Bat-Cat took the cue to unsheathe his claws and cut his Master free. He then did the same with the rest of the team.

Red Velvet Cookie wasted no time in jumping onto the cart that held their stolen weapons and grabbing his sword. “GET THEM! STOP THEM YOU IDIOTS DON’T LET THEM GET AWAY!” The Ginkgoblin boss screamed. The Ginkgoblins tried to fight back but the smog was making it hard to see. Bat-Cat freed Chiffon and the triplets by picking the lock with his claws. Chiffon barked and rushed off to help his Cookie. Once Pomegranate Cookie had her mirror back she was able to use her powers of foresight to see when an attack was coming and alert Dark Choco Cookie, who would then blast the Ginkgoblin back with a lightning attack and send them flying. Red Velvet Cookie jumped in front of Healer Cookie and swung his sword to block an attack from a Ginkgoblin.

“Oh, must I do everything myself!?” Ginkster growled as he began punching buttons and shifting levers on his monster truck. Suddenly a boot slammed down onto his cockpit and the Ginkgoblin yelped. He slowly looked up to see a Cookie with her face covered by her hat and a Cake with a golden-striped boomerang pointed at him. The Cookie lifted her hat and glared down at the Ginkgoblin. Her green eyes shone like the desert sun. She removed the wheat from her mouth and flicked it to the side. “Ginkster,” She said with a sly grin. The Ginkgoblin leader growled. “Sheriff Rye Cookie… I shoulda known…”

“We’ve got ya overpowered, Ginkster… Your boys are too tired to keep going. As you can see, my friends down there are already stackin’ up yer lackeys in a nice little pile so you might as well come along quietly… If ya cooperate, I might can see that ya don’t get locked up for the rest of yer life… Just most of it,” she said with a teasing grin. “Mmmmm… What a tempting offer you give me sheriff… But I’m afraid I’m gonna have ta politely… DECLINE!” He shouted, suddenly punching the gas and shifting into reverse. The force of him suddenly backing up threw Rye Cookie and Wheat Cake off and they fell to the ground. Rye Cookie seethed in pain as she felt a crack form on her back. She hissed as she lifted her head. Her eyes widened in horror when she realized Ginkster had shifted from reverse to drive and was now headed right for her. “Rye Cookie! Look out!” Wheat Cake shouted, grabbing her and pulling her out of the way before she got ran over. (Cakes could be surprisingly strong in moments of crisis.)

She sat on her knees with her hands in front of her, huffing as she tried to catch her breath. “Are you ok?” Wheat Cake asked. “I’m fine…” She hissed through gritted teeth. (The red stain on her back said otherwise.) With a pained breath, she got to her feet and fired several rounds at the Monster Truck. The bullets bounced off harmlessly, and Ginkster snickered. “It’s gonna take more than cheap shots to stop this beauty, sheriff!” He spun around, kicking up dust and smashing anything in his way as he left skid marks on whatever road wasn’t torn up. Red Velvet Cookie noticed not all the Ginkgoblins were fighting, some were shouting and running for cover. But any cover was quickly destroyed in Ginkster’s relentless pursuit of the Cookies. Red Velvet and his friends had to dive out of the way several times to avoid being crushed. The Cookies’ attacks couldn’t reach the Ginkgoblin himself and his attack tank was too tough. Ginkster backed into a building as he was turning to go after Licorice Cookie and his minions. A Ginkgoblin let out a cry, “Come on, Ginkster! That’s the third time this month!” He shouted angrily. “Sorry, not sorry. Don’t care,” Ginkster said, shifting the lever into the drive position. Red Velvet Cookie rolled to avoid a piece of falling building and scooped up Chiffon. There had to be a way to get through that thing. A weakness of some sort. A Dragon’s Underbelly. His friends were on the defensive for the entire fight, only Rye Cookie was crazy enough to really go after him, and even then Wheat Cake had to drag her out of the way several times.

The other Ginkgoblins were screaming and trying to run away. Above the roar of the engine, Red Velvet Cookie could hear many of them calling for their loved ones. Ginkster backed up again and ran into a lightpost, which fell down and hit a fire hydrant, which then broke and started spewing water all over the place. Poison Mushroom Cookie ended up slipping and falling, he would have gotten run over had Schwarzwälder not carried him to safety. Red Velvet Cookie raised an eyebrow. “He really doesn’t seem to care about who he hurts or what he breaks, even if it belongs to other Ginkgoblins.” Chiffon barked disapprovingly in agreement. Red Velvet scanned the area, taking in all the destruction and chaos, then he saw something that made his heart sink. A little Ginkgoblin child, she looked no older than Poison Mushroom Cookie’s friend, Onion Cookie. She was standing in the middle of the road and clutching a stuffed goat toy close to her chest. Her eyes were wide with fear and she was shaking like a leaf. And what’s worse, she was right in the path of Ginkster’s wheels. Red Velvet gasped. His body reacted before his mind could, he broke into a sprint and scooped her up, the wheels of the giant machine almost catching his cape as he dived out of the way with the child in his arms.

He rolled to break his fall and clutched the child close to his chest as he instinctively took a protective stance. Looking back he could see Ginkster hadn’t noticed him, or the fact that he’d nearly run over a child. “Seriously?” Red Velvet Cookie growled. He looked down at the Ginkgoblin child, who was staring up at him with wide eyes. He gently sat her down and smiled. “You better go find your family, stay out of the road,” he said gently, before turning his attention back to the Ginkgoblin Monster Truck. He broke into a run with Chiffon close beside him. He used a few fallen boards and a crate as a springboard to give him extra lift, shooting himself into the air and landing on top of Ginkster’s machine. The Ginkgoblin boss jumped slightly and looked at the Cake-Cookie in shock.

Red Velvet Cookie had to dig his Cake hand into the back of the cockpit to keep from being thrown off. He started kicking Ginkster in the face as he tried to force his way into the cockpit. “Why... Don’t… You… Pick on… Somebody your own size!” Red Velvet shouted in between grunts as he tried to reach for the controls with his Cookie hand. “HEY! OW! Get yer filthy little mits… OUCH!! OFF MY… AH!! QUIT THAT!!!” Ginkster shouted as he wrestled with the Cake-Cookie. His focus was now split between steering the truck and fighting off Red Velvet Cookie, he was doing neither of those things very successfully. Red Velvet Cookie grunted as he started grabbing for buttons and levers, trying to find one that would turn the machine off. (Or better yet make it explode.) “Red Velvet Cookie, what are you doing?!” Pomegranate Cookie shouted. Dark Choco Cookie sighed and placed a hand to his head. “Not again,” he groaned. The vehicle was completely out of control with both Ginkster and Red Velvet fighting in the cockpit and neither one really watching the road. They ended up kicking into the steering wheel and causing the truck to go into a crazed spin. Chiffon yelped as he was thrown off and Ginkster yelled as he tried to regain control.

Red Velvet Cookie looked up to see they were about to crash into a building and decided to jump off before the inevitable crash. He leapt, rolling as he hit the ground and yelling loudly as his side exploded in pain. He heard a crash behind him and rocks and wooden splinters went flying as Ginkster crashed into a building. Red Velvet had to shut his eyes as a large cloud of dust and sand was kicked up from the collision. He lay there moaning in pain and trying to fight back tears while he caught his breath. “Arf! Arf! Arf!” Red Velvet Cookie groaned and slowly opened his eyes to see Chiffon staring into his eyes, he started licking his face and barking worriedly. Despite the pain, Red Velvet Cookie slowly smiled and started to laugh. “Hahahahaha! I’m ok, bud… I’m ok…” He said, slowly reaching to pet his precious Cake Hound in between the ears. Chiffon smiled and his tongue lolled to the side of his mouth as the little Pupcake panted slightly.

“Red Velvet Cookie!”

Red Velvet tried to lift his head but he was too weak, his injury from yesterday was burning again and the adrenaline from the fight was starting to wear off. “Ugh…” He groaned softly. Chiffon started barking and bouncing up and down. Soon, Licorice Cookie and Poison Mushroom Cookie appeared from the dust cloud, followed by Dark Choco and Pomegranate, who was leading Healer Cookie by the hand. “Red Velvet! Are you ok?!” Licorice Cookie exclaimed, running up to his friend and helping him to his feet. “Yeah… Yeah, I’m ok…” He panted, groaning and holding his injured side. “No you’re not, and you’re not the only one,” Schwarzwälder said, practically carrying the injured Rye Cookie who was fighting against the Werehound. “Let me go ya dumb Brute! I’ve gotta… ACK! Arrest that low-down crook and AAHHH!!!”

“Rye Cookie stop! You’re too badly injured!” Wheat Cake snapped. “I am not either! Now put me down before I put a… AHAAA! Shot between yer…” She hissed in pain. “Do you even hear yourself? Rye Cookie, stop struggling! You’re only going to make it worse!” Wheat Cake shouted. “I’m not some limp doughed softie who needs ta be… CHOCO WEREHOUND BRUTE IF YOU DON’T PUT ME DOWN RIGHT NOW!”

Healer Cookie whistled loudly. That was enough to get the sheriff’s and her deputy's attention. “That’s enough! Both of you!” Healer Cookie said sternly. “Rye Cookie, Wheat Cake is right… We need to get you somewhere safe so we can heal your injuries, then we can focus on the Ginkgoblins.” Rye Cookie hissed and seethed and stuttered as she tried to come up with an argument in between seething in pain. “Besides, we’re still smack dab in the middle of enemy territory,” Licorice Cookie reasoned. “We need to find somewhere we can hide before Ginkster notices us,” Dark Choco Cookie added. The dust was starting to settle and while the Ginkgoblin boss had his attention on his Monster Machine at the moment, it would only be a matter of time before he noticed them and went after them again. “Are you ok, baby?” Ginkster said to his truck. “Did those mean Cookies hurt you?” Red Velvet Cookie groaned as he looked around.

“Psssst!”

Red Velvet Cookie turned and saw the same Ginkgoblin child he had rescued earlier hiding in an alley and waving him over. “That’s the little girl from before,” Red Velvet Cookie said. “Mmmm, I think she wants us to follow her,” Bat-Cat purred. “A Ginkgoblin… Really?” Rye Cookie said with a snort. Red Velvet Cookie was already slowly approaching her. “Follow me,” she whispered, before dissapearing into the alley. “Are we seriously doing this?” Rye Cookie asked in disbelief. “We don’t seem to have a choice. Everyone, come quickly!” Healer Cookie said, taking the front and holding onto Red Velvet Cookie as they silently disappeared into the alley.

Chapter Text

The group followed the Ginkgoblin child down the alleyway into a run-down building tucked away in the shadows. Judging from the torn posters and signs on the walls of the alley, this place didn’t always look so decrepit, but the shops and houses in this section of town seemed long abandoned. Once Red Velvet was certain they had traveled a safe distance, he finally broke the tense silence. “Hey, where are you taking us?” He asked the young girl. “My Mommy’s friend has a Juice Shop down this way, no one ever goes there anymore. We can hide from Ginkster there,” she replied. Red Velvet looked at his friends to study their reactions. “I don’t think she’s lying,” Dark Choco Cookie whispered. “Hold on,” Licorice Cookie interjected, “You’re a Ginkgoblin too, aren’t you? So why are you helping us?” The little girl turned and hugged her goat plushie close. “Because Mommy asked me to.”

The group soon arrived at a shop that looked just as shabby as the rest of the buildings on the street. Several windows were busted, paint was peeling off the side, and the metal sign above the door was swinging on one henge. “I’ve got a bad feeling about this,” Licorice Cookie mumbled as the Ginkgoblin child pushed the door open and motioned for them to follow. The Cookies stepped into the dimly lit room and looked around. The interior wasn’t much better than the exterior. A tired-looking Ginkgoblin stood behind what was left of the counter (as it looked like the bar had been split in half, and one half had been taken). He looked up when he saw the door open. “Ah, there you are, Milly. And your friends as well, I’d tell y’all to take a seat but as you can see… They’ve already been took.” (He was referring to the fact that there wasn’t a single chair or stool in the entire building. Besides what may have been the remains of a smashed-up chair next to an overturned table.) “Uh…” Red Velvet Cookie said awkwardly. Chiffon whined softly, his tail drooping as he and Red Velvet looked at one another with the same confused look on their faces.

“Milly!”

The Ginkgoblin child ran up to the older Ginkgoblin who had called for her. “Mommy!” She cheered happily, diving into her mother’s arms. “Oh thank goodness you’re alright,” Milly’s mother said, sounding on the verge of tears. Any remaining distrust or anxiety Red Velvet might have felt for the situation instantly disappeared at the heartwarming sight. Chiffon’s tail started wagging again. The Cake Hound and Cake-Cookie shared a nod and walked up to the mother and child. Milly’s mother looked up as they approached and sat her daughter down. “That’s him, Mommy! That’s the Cookie who saved me!” Red Velvet Cookie rubbed the back of his neck, “Well, it was really no big de– Omph! Uh…” Red Velvet was cut short by Milly’s mother suddenly hugging him, he winced slightly as his bullet injury flared up again. “Thank you, thank you for saving my little girl!” Red Velvet blushed slightly. “Heh… It was nothing.” Chiffon barked happily. Milly looked at the Pupcake with wide eyes sparkling with excitement.

Milly’s mother broke from the hug and wiped her eyes, “She’s all I have, how can I ever repay you?” Before Red Velvet could respond, the Ginkgoblin behind the counter spoke up. “You’re already stickin’ your neck out by lettin’ ‘em hide out here. If Ginkster finds out about this he’s gonna grind us all to a pulp.” He didn’t seem concerned about the possibility, it sounded more like he was just stating a fact rather than making a threat. Rye Cookie groaned loudly. “We gotta get her fixed up, fast.” Schwarzwälder said. Dark Choco and Licorice nodded. Wheat Cake helped them lift the only table in the room off the floor and got it standing upright again. Dark Choco Cookie hummed softly as the table wobbled under the weight of his hand. “It’s a little rickety…” He said softly. “Hey, no worries, we can prop it up with…” Licorice Cookie looked down at his hands, his eyes widened. He dug in his pockets and he started breathing heavily. He patted his robes as if expecting to find an answer and he shouted in a panic. “GUYS! T-the book… The book with the map of the Brown Sugar Desert, it’s gone! T-the Ginkgoblins must still have it!”

“What!?” Pomegranate Cookie exclaimed. “T-they stole it from me when they took our weapons, I-I-I think it’s still in my bag…” Licorice Cookie whimpered. “Without that map we’ll never be able to complete the Trials!” Dark Choco Cookie cried. “AUUUUGHHHH!!!” Rye Cookie shouted, doubling over and breathing through her teeth. “Rye?” Wheat Cake said, watching her as she hissed in pain. “No time to worry about that now!” Schwarzwälder shouted, “Do we have anything else we can prop this up with?” he said, looking down at the wobbly table. Milly hummed and looked at the half-broken leg of the table. “Oh, I know!” She said, running up to it and stuffing her toy goat under the table. Dark Choco Cookie placed a hand on the table again, it still shifted, but only slightly now. “Looks like that worked. Bring her over here, Choco Werehound Brute." The Werehound carefully carried Rye Cookie over to the table and sat her on her stomach. Rye tried to weakly protest, but the pain was too great now. She'd lost so much jam, her eyes were starting to roll back in her head. Wheat Cake took Rye Cookie's hand as Healer Cookie stepped forward and waved his staff. Her breathing slowly began to steady, and she slowly stopped struggling. Red Velvet smiled. Healer Cookie could fix her up no problem, he knew she'd be fine.

He turned back to Milly's mother. "Hey, just curious… Why are you helping us? Especially if Ginkster's is going to punish you for it.” She looked over at her daughter, who was softly gasping at the light from Healer Cookie’s magic. “One good turn deserves another… A genuinely good deed is hard to come by in this town. And when it comes it should always be rewarded.” The Ginkgoblin behind the counter nodded. “And my store has been ransacked so many times it won't matter if Ginkster's goons come here… I've got nothing else for them to take.” Red Velvet Cookie raised an eyebrow. “Wait, why would Ginkster steal from you? You're a Ginkgoblin too.” Milly walked up to Red Velvet. "Ginkster runs the town… He and his gang take whatever they want. Mommy has hidden cubbies all over the house to hide things away from them, but… They always find them,” she said sadly.

"What?" Rye Cookie said softly, slowly raising her head. Milly's mother hugged her daughter tight. "Ginkster and his family have run our village for generations… Anyone who doesn't do as he says is either forced to give up their belongings or… Or join his crew…" Milly squeaked a little as her Mother hugged her tighter. "There's not a Ginkgoblin in town who doesn't have a family member under his control. It's only a matter of time before…" Her voice trembled as she looked at her daughter, "He forces them all to steal for him. Most of the kids in his crew are only doing it to protect their families.” Rye Cookie raised herself into a sitting position as Healer Cookie’s magic closed up her wounds. “Wait, wait, wait… Let me get this straight, Ginkster not only steals from others, but he steals from the people in his own town!?” Milly’s mother nodded. The Ginkgoblin behind the counter spoke up, “I can't tell ya the last time I had actual business. Kinda hard to keep customers when Ginkster's gang keeps snatching my goods… On that note, I'd offer y'all something to drink but I'm pretty sure Ginkster's goons have done swiped it all."

“Why don’t you try to skip town then?” Wheat Cake asked. Milly’s mother shook her head. “There’s nothing but miles of desert out there… The closest civilization is that Cookie town out by Brown Sugar Valley and… Any time a Ginkgoblin tries to go there they get attacked.” Rye Cookie’s eyes widened with slight horror, realizing that the Cookies’ prejudices against the Ginkgoblins have been keeping innocent citizens like Milly and her Mother trapped. “What?” she breathed in disbelief. Chiffon started whimpering. Red Velvet looked down at his pupcake to see him panting and his ears held back. Red Velvet sighed. “Yeah, I know, I’m thirsty too bud, but Ginkster and his gang still have our bag with the berry milk.”

“Y’know… I’m gonna go check the back,” the Ginkgoblin behind the counter said awkwardly, “I might just find something hidden somewhere.” The tension in the air only seemed to get thicker when he left. Rye Cookie slowly got off the table. Wheat Cake tried to stop her but she held a hand up. She walked up to Milly and her Mother, the young Ginkgoblin was unsuccessfully trying to free herself from her Mother’s embrace. “So… Y’all have been stuck livin’ under Ginkster’s tyranny because everyone thinks you’re like him…” She said softly. The older Ginkgoblin nodded sadly. Milly stopped struggling and hugged her mother back. “That ain’t right…” Rye Cookie said softly. Her fist started shaking at her side. “That ain’t right!” she shouted enraged. “No one should live in fear of havin’ the things they love taken from them! As a Cookie of the law I’m disgusted by what that rotten lawbreaker is doing to this town!” Milly’s mother shook her head. “In our town Ginkster’s word is law…” Rye Cookie crossed her arms over her chest. “The purpose of the law is to protect the liberties of the citizens, not to oppress ‘em!" she replied sharply. Wheat Cake nodded in agreement. “Y’all can’t keep livin’ under his iron fist anymore, someone’s gotta stand up to him and do somethin’ about it!”

“Here! Here!” Red Velvet Cookie cheered. Milly’s mother only sighed, “Look, maybe in your world that’s the norm, but here in our town, living in fear of Ginkster is our only reality. Anyone who’s tried to stand up to him gets crushed like a bug.” Wheat Cake snorted. “So you just roll over and let him do whatever he wants to you?” Milly’s mother shook her head, “There’s nothing else we can do. He’s too powerful. No one can stop Ginkster’s gang,” she said, sighing in resignation. Her eyes were dim with hopelessness. “But they can Mommy!” Milly interjected. “They made Ginkster crash his monster machine! Remember?” The older Ginkgoblin gave her daughter a look, “Millicent, hush.” At that moment the other Ginkgoblin returned to the broken bar with a glass bottle. “Y’all ain't goin’ to believe this but I actually found a bottle of Cactus Juice in the back!” Chiffon barked excitedly and ran up to him. “Well, hey there little fella,” the barkeeper Ginkgoblin said, smiling at the little pupcake. “I bet yer parched after running around the desert with that thick coat of frosting of yers.” He took down a small dish with a crack in the side and poured a bit of the Juice into it for the little Cake, which he greedily began to lap.

While Rye Cookie and Milly’s mother continued to talk, Red Velvet passed the Juice bottle around to his friends and they all took a sip. “Cactus Juice?” Licorice Cookie said reluctantly, raising an eyebrow. “Mmmm, it tastes like bubblegum!” Poison Mushroom Cookie cheered. The barkeeper Ginkgoblin smiled proudly. He couldn’t remember the last time he was able to enjoy the satisfied look on his patrons’ faces. “I remember when my pop and I opened this place. I promised him I’d look after it but… I guess I haven’t done a very good job…” He said, sadly looking around at the broken wood piles that used to be bar stools and piles of broken glass shoved into the corner. “It’s not your fault, Gary…” Milly’s mother said reassuringly. “This is exactly what I’m talking about!” Rye Cookie shouted. “If we took Ginkster down you could turn your shop back around! You wouldn’t have to worry about your store gettin’ ransacked all the time! And if it was, the perps would be brought to justice!” She exclaimed with resolution. Gary shook his head. “Justice doesn’t exist in our town. Hasn’t for a long time.” Healer Cookie stepped forwards, “If I may… Miss..?”

“Gail,” Milly’s mother replied. “Miss Gail, I implore you, think about your daughter,” Healer Cookie said softly. Gail looked down at her little girl sadly as she hugged her goat plushie close. “Don’t you want her to grow up in a safe and happy environment?” Gail hugged Milly close, “Of course I do… But… There’s nothing I can do to stop him.”

“I believe that every creature deserves to live in peace and happiness. But when evil and enemies rise up to threaten that peace, we should come together to combat it,” Healer Cookie said. “Alone we may be powerless, one Cookie shouting may not get much attention. But thousands of voices crying out together can be heard from miles around. It takes more than one grain of sand to make a desert, if we all work together, I believe it’s quite possible we can defeat Ginkster and restore justice and peace to your village.” Gail looked skeptical. Red Velvet Cookie chimed in. “Hey, I know what it’s like to live in fear. My friends and I lived in the basement of a Witch’s house for almost our entire lives.” Poison Mushroom Cookie bounced next to the Cake-Cookie. “But we worked together to escape!” Licorice Cookie stood beside his friend and added. “We’ve taken down all kinds of enemies, from a Custard Colossus to a Jelly Wyrm Dragon! A mob boss should be no problem if we work as a team. Besides, we’ve taken down a good deal of his underlings as it is. His resources will be stretched thin.”

“I’m not so sure…” Gail said softly. Rye Cookie stepped forward. “Gail, when I became sheriff of my town I vowed with every crumb of my being to uphold the law. But that promise doesn’t stop at just my town. It extends to every livin’ being under the sun. Y’all are good people and you deserve the reassurance and security that the things you love ain’t gonna be snatched up from under ya with no way to get them back!” Rye Cookie’s voice had been growing in volume and passion with each passing second. When suddenly she looked off at a wall, her bright green eyes glazing over as she spoke with something in her voice that seemed out of place. “I… I know how that feels.”

She lowered her head, her hat obscuring part of her face as she continued. “I know how it feels to have something you treasure taken from you… I understand the feeling of hopelessness y’all must be livin’ with.” She raised her head again, “I know how yer throat gets tight and your heart feels heavy as a stone. For a minute you forget how to breathe as reality slowly sets in that what was rightfully yours is… Gone forever and… All you can do is… Accept it. Mourn your loss and move on.”

Gail’s eyes widened as Rye Cookie spoke, something about her posture changed. Since the beginning, Gail had been acting closed off and hesitant. She seemed to hug herself and shy away from the Cookies, like a frightened Cake Hound that had been kicked one too many times and was just waiting for the next strike. Like she was constantly mentally preparing herself for some form of pain. But now, she seemed to be relaxing, as if opening herself to trust the Cookie. “But I don’t move on!” Rye Cookie exclaimed, her voice returning to the same tone of authority and resolution as before. “I don’t give up! And I don’t let go! I promise you, I won’t rest until Ginkster pays for his crimes, against both my people and yours!”

“But why would you want to help us? We’re Ginkgoblins,” Gary pipped up, resting his cheek in his hand. “What y’all are is good law-abiding citizens. Y’all helped us, it’s only right that we return the favor,” Rye Cookie replied with a wide grin. Gail almost wanted to remind her that she was returning the favor for saving her daughter, but something about Rye Cookie’s expression made her feel something she hadn’t felt in a long time.

Hope.

“Do you… Really think you can defeat Ginkster?” She said slowly, raising an eyebrow cautiously. “Ma’am. You have my solemn oath that I will not rest until Ginkster is behind bars where he belongs! Sheriff’s honor!” Rye Cookie said, crossing over her heart with one hand and spinning her pistol in the other. “She’s right,” Wheat Cake added, “Rye Cookie is the most stubborn Cookie I’ve ever met. She won’t eat or sleep until she catches her crook… She’s that hardheaded,” he said, giving Rye Cookie a side-eye. Rye Cookie only smiled in response to the Cake's snarky remarks. “And we’ll help too!” Poison Mushroom Cookie cheered. “We’re gonna get your town back for you, Gail! For you and all the good Ginkgoblins!” Red Velvet exclaimed. Chiffon barked in agreement, wagging his tail with vigor.

“Y’all’s mouths are making promises your hands can’t keep, Crumb Kiddos.”

Everyone looked in the direction of the new voice to see a Ginkgoblin lying on her stomach next to the wall. Surrounded by blueprints and papers. Her outfit was made of brown leather and metal and was held together by wire and gears. She was scribbling with a charcoal pen on some grid paper. “Oh, Gadget, I didn’t know you were there,” said Gail. “She’s always so quiet… I don’t know how she sneaks into places with her carrying all those parts around with her,” Gary mumbled softly. The new Ginkgoblin stood up and readjusted the goggles on her head. “Even without his crew, you’ve still got Ginkster’s monster machine to deal with. And you can get him to crash it, but you’ll never break it. That puppy is indestructible. I should know… I made it,” Gadget said, an undertone of shame in her voice. It was clear she regretted creating such a vehicle for the Ginkgoblin mob boss, but Red Velvet figured she wasn’t given a choice in the matter.

“Come on, nothing’s indestructible. If you built it surely you would know its weakness,” Licorice Cookie said encouragingly. Gadget shook her head. “Lemme show you,” She said, taking a blueprint out of her back pocket and unfolding it. She rolled it out on the floor where everyone could see the diagram of Ginkster’s monster truck. "This puppy's got armor four feet thick on each side. Net cannons and missile launchers. Can reach a max speed of 90 miles per hour. You try to go up against this thing, especially now that y'all have made him mad, there won't be any crumbs left to sweep up." Licorice Cookie gulped, hugging Bat-Cat close to his chest as he remembered the roar of the massive vehicle. “So, no self-destruct button?” Red Velvet Cookie asked, half joking. Gadget shook her head. “This thing’s waterproof, bulletproof, Cookieproof. You’re never gonna be able to stop him as long as he’s in the cockpit of that machine.”

“Never say never,” Rye Cookie said in a low voice. “As much as I’d like ta see that criminal rot in jail for the rest of his life, this is a matter of life and death.” Rye Cookie said, taking her pistol out of its holster and spinning it in her hand. “All I need’s one good shot between the eyes,” she said softly. A dead silence filled the air. Gail looked at the Cookie in disbelief, “Sheriff… Surely you don’t mean…?”

Rye Cookie reloaded her pistol. “If that's what it takes ta set the good ones free then yeah,” she said, taking the bottle of Cactus Juice off the counter and downing the last few swallows in two gulps. She slammed the now empty bottle down on the countertop and wiped her mouth on her sleeve. “Thank y’all kindly for the advice and the assistance,” she holstered her pistol, “We’ve got a no-good low down Ginkgoblin ta catch… C’mon, deputy,” she said, nodding to Wheat Cake and heading out the door without another word, Wheat Cake following behind and muttering to himself. Licorice Cookie looked at his minions and Schwarzwälder. The Werehound nodded, and they followed Rye Cookie out, Poison Mushroom Cookie skipping behind them. Pomegranate held onto Healer Cookie’s hand as they left, and Red Velvet began to leave when he heard Gail call out to him. She was watching the small group leave with a maternal expression of concern. “Be careful,” she said softly. Red Velvet Cookie smiled. “We will.”

Dark Choco Cookie left a handful of coins on the countertop, smiling at Gary’s surprised expression and nodding as he turned to leave with Red Velvet Cookie faithfully trotting behind the older warrior. Gary looked down at the small pile of gold glittering on the countertop as if he couldn’t believe it were real. “Well, what do you know,” he said slowly picking a coin up. “First time in forever I’ve had actual business,” he said with a warm chuckle. Milly hugged her mother tightly. “Mommy… Do you think… They’ll be able to stop him?” Gail held her daughter close and shook her head. “I… I don’t know, baby… I don’t know.” Gadget looked down at her blueprint again, Healer Cookie’s words ringing in her head.

“Alone we may be powerless… But if we all work together, I believe we can defeat Ginkster and restore justice and peace to your village.”

She looked up at Gary who was pulling up a floorboard to hide the coins in. She looked at Gail and her worn expression, pale and thin from fear and anxiety. She looked at Milly, eyes still bright with a spark of hope.

Hope… How long had it been since their village had hope? She remembered the tone of determination in Rye Cookie’s voice as she left. That look in her eye, like a predator going in for the kill. She wasn't going to give up, she was ready to do whatever it took to bring justice back to their town. She looked down at the blueprint again, furrowed her brow, grabbed her pack, and dumped its contents onto the floor. Metal and springs and gears and finer parts spilled onto the floor. The other three Ginkgoblins jumped slightly and looked at her in surprise as she dove into her work. Yes, she had everything she needed. But she would have to work fast.

“Oh little Cookie Wookies, come out, come out wherever you are!” Ginkster called in a sing-songy voice as he roamed up and down the streets. Any member of his crew that wasn’t too injured to move went ahead of him, interrogating the citizens and overturning every table and rock in search of the small group of desserts. They ducked in and out of alleyways and watched from the rooftops with goggles and binoculars. Ginkster growled softly as he peered over his sunshades into the dusty road. Three young recruits walked up to him and he placed his Monster machine in park. The vehicle came to a stop with a loud hiss. “Well? Any sign of them?” The nervous way they wrung their hands was enough for him. His growl became a roar of rage. He slammed his fists down on the console and screamed, “Well then FIND THEM you idiots! They can’t have just disappeared into thin air!” The Ginkgoblins trembled and saluted. “Sir yes sir!” they shouted, before scattering like rats. Ginkster sighed in annoyance and slumped down in his seat. “That sheriff… She’s been a cactus prick in my side for far too long…” he grumbled to himself, “Always locking up my boys and taking away my bounty that I rightfully stole! Hump! And now here she is with a whole posse of dumb Crumbs for Brains! Oooooh, the next time I see her I’m gonna…” He paused, his vision drifted to the rearview mirror. He squinted and leaned forward.

A shot rang out. Ginkster flinched. He slowly felt his cheek and it burned upon contact. He looked into the mirror at his reflection, there was a grazed spot on his face. He inhaled slowly through his nose and shifted a lever. The Monster Truck slowly turned, knocking into a stall and smashing it in the process. There she was, standing alone in the middle of the deserted street. Her long blond hair blowing in the hot desert wind. Her poncho ruffled in the wind, causing her badge to catch the light just right so that it flashed in the sun. Next to her stood her little Cake, holding his boomerang in his hand and watching the Ginkgoblin carefully. She locked eyes with him, as they stood in silence several feet apart. A smoking gun in her hand, that she slowly raised to her mouth and blew. Ginskster smiled. “Well, well, well, you and your little friend back for another round, sheriff?” She raised the pistol. “Not this time… Yer reign of terror ends right here and right now, Ginkster! I know about what you’ve been doing to the other Ginkgoblins and it’s shameful!” A few of the braver citizens slowly poked their heads out of their hiding places. “I’ve seen how yer people are sufferin’ under you. You’ve been stealing not only from mah people but yer own as well! Half yer crew only follows you because they’re scared of you! Not because they have any real loyalty to you!”

He snorted. “So what? My Ma ran this town before me, and her Pa before her, and his Pa before him! And we’ve been doing it the same way then, and that way works for me now. Kehehehe! You’ve been quite the pesky little fly buzzing in my ear for some time now sheriff, what with your justice and all. Well… Guess what, yer on mah turf now! And you can’t just wave your shiny little badge and get people to listen to you out here sheriff. YOUR laws don’t work in MY town! AHAHAHAHAHA!”

“That’s where you’re wrong, Ginkster. The crimes you’ve committed ain't between just you an’ me anymore. This goes beyond petty theft or even assault… No… You’ve held an entire town hostage for years, forced these people to do yer bidding. You’ve taken their belongings, as well as their security... You’ve trampled on every right they have as livin’ beings with breath in their bodies and it makes me sick! You strip kids from their families and force them to do yer dirty work for you, because yer too much of a coward ta do it yerself!”

“Oh cry me a river why don’t ya…? How I run MY town has nothing to do with you! You’re the one poking her nasty little Cookie nose into places it doesn’t belong!” Ginkster snorted. “Wrong again Ginkster. Because I’m a Cookie of the law. And the law don’t stop at my town… These people have the right to live their lives without fear of everything they love being taken from them at any moment without a second’s notice! They deserve to be free! Free of you, and yer selfish sticky hands!” Some of the younger members of Ginkster’s crew began to whisper among themselves. Some wide-eyed citizens slowly appeared from alleyways, and windows, slowly peeking out from behind broken parts of buildings and stalls and street shops. Wheat Cake held his boomerang at the ready. “Party’s over, Ginkster,” he said, narrowing his eyes at the mob boss. “Oh… That’s too bad…” Ginkster said, readjusting his shades. “Because I brought the FIREWORKS!” He shouted, smashing a button on his Monster Truck and firing several missiles at Rye Cookie and Wheat Cake.

But before they could hit their mark something sped past, grabbing onto Rye Cookie and Wheat Cake and scooping them up, carrying them to safety. As the dust settled, where Ginkster expected to see the scattered crumbs and jam stains of the fallen Cookie and Cake there was only a dusty crater. A few feet away, a red-doughed Cookie and his loyal Pupcake stood. Red Velvet turned, his Cake eye boring past Ginkster’s glasses and into his soul. For a moment he froze. He felt a chill go up his spine as he stared back into that inky black sphere. Rye Cookie shook her head and blinked, staring up at Red Velvet Cookie in shock as he slowly put her back on her feet. She dusted herself off and coughed awkwardly into her fist. “Thanks…” She said sheepishly, readjusting her hat. Red Velvet smiled in response. The two Cookies and their Cakes turned their attention back to Ginkster and his Monster Truck. Red Velvet raised his sword and Rye Cookie clicked her pistol. “Last chance Ginkster… We can do this the hard way or the easy way.”

The mob boss snorted. “You dumb little Treat Freaks think you can take me on all on your own?!” He shouted indignantly. “Oh, we're not alone, Ginkster,” Red Velvet Cookie said, snapping his fingers. On cue, red and purple lightning bolts exploded from two different sides, knocking back the remaining members of Ginkster’s crew. Dark Choco appeared with Healer Cookie and Pomegranate Cookie behind him, both brandishing their weapons. Licorice Cookie rode into battle atop Schwarzwälder’s head with a battle cry. (Which was really just him yelling random noises.) The two tried to slash at Ginkster’s tires with Schwarzwälder’s horns and Licorice Cookie’s scythe but they didn’t do much damage. As they ran past, Licorice Cookie looked back to see Ginkster powering up his machine again. Licorice Cookie let out a yelp. “Ulp! Poison Mushroom Cookie! Operation Undercover! Let’s go!” He shouted as the smaller Cookie who had been clinging to him began to dig into his pockets. He tossed several of his Shroomies into the air and blanketed the streets in a thick purple fog. Ginkster shifted this way and that as he tried to see where the many attacks were coming from in the haze, but not even his headlights could cut through the smog.

“Haha! Now that’s more like it! Let’s see how well he can get us undercover. Under the cover of Shroomy spores that is! Heheheh!” Licorice Cookie cheered. “Oh so that’s why it’s called Operation Undercover, nice one boss,” Schwarzwälder said with a toothy grin of approval. Red Velvet Cookie helped Rye Cookie tie a bandana tie around her face so she wouldn’t be affected by the spores. Chiffon barked in warning and the two looked up just in time to see Ginkster’s headlights coming for them. They dove out of the way and watched as his machine rolled by. Red Velvet Cookie groaned, “He’s too high up on that thing for the spores to reach him!”

“Ya got a plan B?” Rye Cookie asked, her voice muffled through the fabric. “We’ll think of something,” Red Velvet said, scanning the street as the cloud of Shroomy spores began to dissipate. Dark Choco Cookie attacked with his lightning storms on one side, Healer Cookie and Pomegranate would shoot blasts of light from the other. Licorice used long-ranged attacks while mounted on Schwarzwälder. Red Velvet knew he and his friends couldn’t risk getting too close to the machine while it was moving, or they would get sucked under the massive wheels. And as long as Ginkster was safe in the cockpit there was no way their attacks would reach him. “Maybe if we focus our attacks on one side we can tip him over?” Red Velvet suggested. “Doubt it,” Wheat Cake replied. “But it’s worth a shot, or two,” Rye Cookie quipped, spinning her pistol in her hand. “Grrrr! Get back here you little goody-goody pains in the… AH! HEY! Yer gonna pay fer that! I just had this thing buffed! OW! Yer gonna scratch the paint!” Ginkster shouted as another wave of magic attacks hit his Monster Truck and caused his ride to rock slightly. “Alright, that’s it… No more Mr. Nice Guy!” He shouted, firing another barrage of missiles at the Cookies.

While no one was hit directly, the blast was strong enough to knock several of them back. Schwarzwälder got thrown into a wall and Licorice and Poison Mushroom fell off his back and hit the ground hard. Licorice Cookie groaned and then gasped as he lifted his head. “Schwarzwälder!” He shouted, scrambling to his feet and running up to his Cake, who was lying in a heap on the ground and struggling to get back to his feet. “Are you ok?” The Dark Wizard asked, holding onto his Cake’s arm. Schwarzwälder nodded but Licorice could hear him whimpering softly. Another bright flash of light blinded Ginkster, he growled and turned to Healer Cookie and Pomegranate. He scowled and slammed his fist down on a button, firing his net cannon. Pomegranate Cookie gasped and pushed Healer Cookie out of the way. Healer Cookie hit the ground and began to panic as he realized his staff had flown out of his hand. He groped along the ground as the sound of battle grew louder and louder in his ears. The blind Cookie could only helplessly crawl along the ground, having no idea if he was getting closer or farther away from his staff. And even if he did find it, without Pomegranate Cookie’s help, he wouldn’t know which way to aim. As for Pomegranate, she was struggling against the sticky net she was now caught in. She tried to pull it apart to snap the strings, maybe she could make a large enough hole to crawl through. But the knots were too tight and the rope was too thick and it was held down with heavy iron disks so she couldn’t move very far.

When Dark Choco Cookie noticed his friends struggling he quickly tried to run to their rescue. Something whizzed past him, almost hitting his shoulder. He turned to see a dart half-buried in the sand. Just like the ones the Ginkgoblins had used to ambush them earlier. He turned to see Ginkgoblins on the rooftops, with long sticks made of bamboo. “Red! Snipers on the roofs! Heads up!” he shouted to his apprentice. The Cake-Cookie scanned the roofs quickly. 2… 3… 4 of them all together. “We’ve gotta find a way to take them out!” Red Velvet Cookie shouted over the roar of the engine as Ginkster did a 180 and began to chase after Dark Choco Cookie. “I got it,” Rye Cookie said with a coy smile as she ran over to some crates. Wheat Cake followed after her as she quickly climbed up the stack of crates, dodging one of the sharpshooters darts and clambering onto some wobbly scaffolding beside a broken building. She held her hands out at her side for balance as she looked up, steadied her aim, and fired. One of the Ginkgoblin’s blow-dart guns splintered in their hands. She ran across the scaffolding, the wooden structure swaying dangerously beneath her. Wheat Cake threw his boomerang and another sniper’s dart gun was knocked out of their hands.

Ginkster noticed the sheriff and her deputy on the rickety scaffolding and grinned evilly. He spun around, smashing a button and firing a single missile. The rocket flew into the scaffolding and sent the Cake and Cookie tumbling to the ground and the two were soon buried under a pile of broken wood and debris. Ginkster chuckled evilly and aimed his cannon at the pile of debris as it began to move. Rye Cookie and Wheat Cake popped out of the mound of wood and dirt with dust in their hair and splinters sticking out of their dough. Rye Cookie coughed as she pushed a large slab of wood off of her. “Wheat… *cough* *cough* are… Are you ok?”

“Don’t worry about me…” Wheat Cake groaned. He then looked up and gasped softly in horror when he realized Ginkster had his weapon pointed at them… Licorice was still trying to get Schwarzwälder to his feet, Pomegranate was still trapped in the net and Healer Cookie was still groping around in search of his staff. And neither Dark Choco nor Red Velvet were close enough to stop him. Ginkster’s sharp teeth glittered in the sun. “Adiós, sheriff,” he chuckled. But before he could push the button that would deal the final blow, an annoying robotic squawking noise rang in his ear. He paused and looked up to see what looked like tiny metal birds flying around him. Making distorted chirping noises, and an odd ticking sound… Almost like a timer that was about to go off. “What the?”

They exploded, each one creating a blinding flash of light as they did. Ginkster screamed as his vision was obstructed by smoke and light. He tried shooing the mechanical birds away but they just kept coming. Wheat Cake stood in mouth agape shock, but Rye Cookie knew there was no time to lose. The welcome distraction, however unusual, wouldn’t last forever. So she finished pulling herself out of the pile of debris and yanked Wheat Cake up. Placing him on her shoulder as she slid down the pile of wood and busted stones. Once she hit the bottom she took off running. “You two ok?” Red Velvet Cookie asked as he ran up to them. “Yeah… W… Where did those things come from?”

“Red Velvet Cookie! Over here!” A child’s voice called. Red Velvet looked over to see Milly the little Ginkgoblin, waving them over from an alleyway. Red looked at her, and then back at his friends. He couldn’t just leave them. But then he realized… They weren’t alone. Gail was helping Licorice get Schwarzwälder to his feet and Gary the barkeeper Ginkgoblin was pulling the net off of Pomegranate while Dark Choco helped Healer Cookie up. Red Velvet looked to the roof to see a few more of the bird bombs binding and disarming the last two remaining snippers and he smiled.

Taking Rye Cookie’s hand he rushed into the alleyway with Milly and ducked in with his friends and the other Ginkgoblins close behind. “I knew you guys would come around,” Rye Cookie said with a toothy grin. “Yeah, yeah, sheriff. But there ain’t no time for pleasantries,” Gadget said, appearing from the shadows. “Ginkster isn’t gonna be distracted for long so, I’ll cut to the chase.” She pulled out a small round disk with a button on top. “This is a Power Reverser. Stick it onto Ginkster’s control panel and press this button, the internal mechanisms will short circuit and overheat. Causing internal spontaneous combustion!” She cried proudly. “Uh… Do what now?” Red Velvet Cookie said, rubbing the back of his neck with his Cake arm. “It’ll cause his Monster Machine to blow up,” Licorice Cookie replied flatly. “Ohhhhhh,” Red Velvet Cookie said in understanding. “If we do that, I think we may have a chance!” Gadget said with a smile. “GADGET!” Ginkster’s voice bellowed. “You little creep! I know these blasted birds are yours! When I get my hands on you I’m gonna…!”

“Guess it’s now or never,” the engineering Ginkgoblin said with a resigned sigh. “So, how are we gonna get that thing into Ginkster’s cockpit?” Licorice Cookie asked. “Oh, leave that to meow, Meowster!” Bat-Cat purred, flying off Licorice’s shoulder. He took the small device from Gadget and purred, “I can fly into the cockpit no problem… Oh, but that's a problem,” he said, his ears flattening against his head. “Of course, what now?” Licorice groaned softly. Bat-Cat muttered as he placed the device on the ground and pawed at it. “It would seem my paws are too soft to press the button, Meowster.” Licorice sighed. “Too bad Gadget didn't make it cat-friendly,” Gary quipped with a chuckle. “It was a rush job! Excuse me if I didn't put that high on the priority list during the 3-minute design process!” Gadget snapped indignantly. “It's alright, Gadget. We'll just have to find someone else to press the button after Bat-Cat places it in Ginkster’s Monster Truck,” Red Velvet said reassuringly. “Well, I could fly someone into the cockpit,” Bat-Cat suggested. “Oooh, Shroomy can do it!” Poison Mushroom Cookie cheered, waving his hand in the air excitedly, like an expectant schoolboy hoping to be called on.

“Are you sure you can carry him, Bat-Cat?” Pomegranate Cookie asked, looking between Poison Mushroom and the small pet that was a fourth his size. “As a meowter of fact, I used to practice carrying Meowster and his friends back in the Witch's basement!” He purred proudly. “One of our many escape plans we practiced,” Licorice Cookie explained, “If I use a levitation spell to assist him Bat-Cat can actually carry Red Velvet and me a good distance, and he can carry Poison Mushroom without my help for a few minutes.” Poison Mushroom Cookie picked up the device, and Bat-Cat demonstrated by holding him by the back of his robes and lifting him into the air a couple of feet. (Although with noticeable effort.) The group looked on in a bit of concern, especially when Poison Mushroom Cookie accidently dropped the device. Gadget dived for it and fell into the sand as she caught it. She slowly stood up and dusted herself off as Bat-Cat set Poison Mushroom Cookie down shamefacedly. “Yeeeeah, guys, I don’t think that’s gonna work,” she said softly. An explosion sounded from the streets. The sounds of citizens screaming and running for cover could heard over Ginkster yelling and cursing.

“We don't have much time. We need to come up with a plan, fast!” Red Velvet Cookie said, nervously looking over his shoulder to see Ginkgoblins running for cover. Milly hugged her goat plushie close as the grown-ups bantered and planned.

“I could use my magic to place it in the cockpit,” Licorice suggested. “How do ya plan to press the button?” Gadget asked. “I could shoot a Shadowbolt towards it… It'd be a hard target considering how small it is but…” Gadget shook her head, “Too risky, you could damage it.” Red Velvet placed a finger to his chin in thought, “Hmm, I manged to jump into the cockpit earlier, maybe if I…” He was interrupted by Dark Choco, “That would be inadvisable. I saw you struggling with him. We need someone smaller to be able to navigate the cockpit easy with him still inside so that can plant the device and activate it quickly.” Milly looked down at her plush in thought. Someone small… She gasped softly, and then spoke up.

“I can do it!”

Silence fell as everyone turned to look at the little Ginkgoblin. “Bat-Cat can fly me up to the cockpit! I'm much smaller than Poison Mushroom Cookie so I won't be as hard to carry!” Gail’s jaw dropped. “What?! No! Absolutely not! I won’t let you go anywhere near that tyrant! Don’t you remember what happened the last time you got in his way? He almost flattened you like a pancake!” she shouted. “But, Mommy,” Milly squeaked. “No buts, Millicent!” Gail felt a hand on her shoulder, she turned to see Gary standing behind her. “Gail… Milly’s young but she’s right. She’s the only one who can fit in the cockpit with Ginkster.” Gail’s eyes widened, full of fire and her voice dripping with venom she hissed, “You expect me to let my daughter be anywhere near that monster? I’m not losing her to him!” Gadget snorted. “Maybe not yet… But when she’s older Ginkster will snatch her up and make her into one of his drones.” Gail glared at the engineer. “Shut up…”

“Gail… Open your eyes, if we don’t stop him here and now you’re gonna lose her anyway.”

“Shut up!”

“He’s gonna cart her off just like he did yer Pa! And one day you’ll hear through the grapevine what happened to her.”

“Shut UP!”

“And just like him ya won’t even be able to make some cheap gravestone of wood with her name carved in it, without Ginkster and his goons smashin’ or stealin’’ it. He won’t just take her from you… He’ll take any chance she’ll have of resting in peace… Cause she’s gonna end up being gunned down in some dirty alley like some common criminal… Because that’s what he’s gonna make her!”

“I said SHUT UP!” Gail shouted, suddenly rearing back and slapping Gadget hard across the face. Gadget’s stone faced expression remained unchanged, even though the force of the smack was enough to make her head turn. A large red mark burned on her cheek where Gail had struck her. Gail was trembling and breathing shakily as she fruitlessly fought back tears. The rest of the group watched, frozen in stunned silence. Milly’s face was pale and she was hugging her plushie like her life depended on it. Gail gasped for air, and fell to her knees as she sobbed. In that moment it was clear just how broken she had been from living under the gang leader’s rule. No one dared to move, or even breathe. The only sounds were the chaos of the town outside, and Gail’s broken, terrified sobs. Finally, as if a spell had been broken, one Cookie dared to step forward. Gadget stepped aside to allow her to reach the crying Ginkgoblin. Gail gasped softly as she felt a gloved hand being placed under her chin, and blinked back tears as her head was gently lifted to stare into Rye Cookie’s bright green eyes. “Gail…” the sheriff said softly, “I made you a promise. And you have my word that if anything happens to yer daughter, that I will personally hang up my gun and badge as soon as Ginkster is apprehended.” Gail blinked a few times in surprise. “W… What?” Rye Cookie stood up and readjusted her holster. “It’s my duty as sheriff to protect people. And if I can’t keep yer daughter safe then I ain’t fit to do that job.” Gail stared up at the Cookie in disbelief, was she really betting her career on this? Rye Cookie placed her hand over her chest. “You have my word as sheriff that I will bring her back to you safely. Even if I have to crumble myself ta do that.” Gail was speechless. She was only snapped out of her stupor when her daughter hugged her side. The child looked up at her mother with determination shining in her eyes. “I can do it Mommy!”

Gail looked down at her baby, slowly shaking her head. “She… She’s only six…” She said in desperation, looking back at the group with pleading eyes. Red Velvet Cookie stepped forward. “She won’t be alone. Every one of us will be out there distracting him while she and Bat-Cat plant the device. As soon as we do that, all of this is over!” Gail looked down at her daughter, up at Rye and Red Velvet, and then hugged her daughter tight. “You be careful. You hear me?” She said through tears. “I will Mommy,” Milly said with a nod as she wiggled out of her Mother’s grip.

Red Velvet and Rye nodded as they rushed out of the alleyway with the rest of the Cookies in tow to keep the mob boss distracted. Bat-Cat picked Milly up by the back of her tattered dress, she squeaked slightly as they went airborne. She looked at her Mother, and smiled to reassure her. She held her hands out, giving Gail her goat toy. “Take care of Gruff for me ok, Mommy!” She said with all the sweetness and innocence a child could have. Gail fought a fresh wave of tears as she hugged the old matted plush close. “I will,” she promised. Gadget handed the young girl the small device. “Hold on tight to this, and whatever you do, don’t let go until it’s time. Got it?” Milly nodded, fear clearly evident in her eyes, but she was determined to end this nightmare once and for all. Gary and Gadget watched the entrance of the alleyway to see when it would be safe for them to fly out without Ginkster seeing them. Gail held her daughter’s hands as she hovered above her with the flying feline’s help. She looked down at her and smiled sweetly. “I can do this.” Gail smiled back, unable to hide the tears falling down her face. “I know… I believe in you.” Gary gave the signal as Ginkster drove by, firing missiles at Licorice and Poison Mushroom as they ran in the other direction. Milly looked down at her mother. “You have to let go now, Mommy.” Gail’s hand trembled, but slowly, her daughter slipped out of her grasp. She reached out as Bat-Cat took her off into the air. Fighting the urge to break down again. She hugged her daughter’s toy to her chest and looked out at the group of Cookies who were running and shooting blasts of magic towards the monster and his machine. It was up to them now.

Rye Cookie and Wheat Cake focused on trying to hit Ginkster, hard as that was. Rye Cookie did manage to take out one of his side mirrors with a well aimed shot. This gave him a blind spot for Licorice to jump into and shoot a Shadowbolt towards the machine. Red Velvet and Schwarzwälder dug through the mountains of debris that was piling up and tossed it into Ginkster’s path to try and throw him off course or slow him down. But the more they bashed and scratched his beloved truck, the more enraged he became. He was starting to look a little frazzled, his hair wild and his sunshades sitting lopsided on his face, but overall he was unharmed. And he would remain that way as long as he was in his tank. He started putting the pedal to the metal, going full speed in an attempt to run over the small band of desserts. Unbeknownst to him, a young ginkgoblin and a flying cat were hovering above him, preparing to dive. “Are you ready, Milly?” Bat-Cat asked as he glided over the monstrous truck. Milly whimpered, “I’m scared.” Bat-Cat couldn’t see her face, but he imagined she had her eyes closed. “Y’know what? I’m scared too. I bet Rye Cookie and the others are scared down there too.” Milly opened her eyes. “They don’t look scared, Rye Cookie’s is even teasing Ginkster,” she replied, looking down as she saw the Cookie dance about and wave her pistol, jumping out of the way of the massive tires at the last minute. “She’s just really good at hiding it. Grown-ups do that a lot. Your mom’s afraid of Ginkster, isn’t she?” Milly nodded, “Yeah, she is.”

Explosions sounded as a building came tumbling down. Ginkster shot a few more nets out of his cannons and Healer Cookie and Dark Choco were pinned down. Bat-Cat gulped. “But she let you go after him anyway. Because she trusted you. Because she knew she had to be brave so the two of you didn’t have to be afraid of him anymore.” He watched as Ginkster chuckles evilly, turning and revving his engine, his machine right in the path of the two trapped Cookies. Bat-Cat started panicking. “So we have to be brave right now! We’ve only got one chance!” Milly looked over at the alleyway where her mother was watching her. She seemed so small from up here in the sky. But something about the look on her face strengthened her resolve. She didn’t want her mommy to be afraid anymore. She didn’t want her to be sad all the time or be taken away from her when she grew up. She looked down at the small button in her hands. This was the key to ending that fear once and for all. She held it close and nodded. “Let’s do this!”

Bat-Cat tucked in his wings, and dived for the cockpit. Milly held her breath as the wind flew into her face, the feeling of being weightless was so foreign and frightening. She couldn’t help herself from screaming a little, but still… There was something about the feeling of falling, but… Not falling, that was exhilarating. They had almost made it, but at the last minute Ginkster pushed the throttle and the truck sped forward towards Healer and Dark Choco, leaving Bat-Cat and Milly hovering just behind and coughing from the sand and dust clouds that had been kicked up. “NO!” Milly screamed as she realized Ginkster was heading straight for the trapped Cookies. Dark Choco Cookie saw his life flash before his eyes as the truck came closer and closer. When suddenly he felt something speed by in a flash of red. The smell of spice filled the air as the nets were suddenly cut open. At the same time, a magic portal opened up beneath one of Ginkster’s wheels, acting as a pothole and causing him to lurch forward and lose control of the vehicle. Dark Choco Cookie grabbed Healer Cookie and hit the ground. Positioning themselves between the wheels so they would be under the truck when it rolled by. There was a deafening roar and a flash of darkness, but soon it was over as the sound of a crash was heard, and Dark Choco dared to open his eye. Ginkster groaned as his head hit the steering wheel from the recoil of the crash. He was dazed and in pain, his shades were broken and he growled as he tried to get his bearings about him. “Uuuuuh… Why didn’t I make Gadget install airbags in this thing?” he slurred. Bat-Cat and Milly looked on in shock. “What was that?” Milly asked. “I… I don’t…” Bat-Cat said, before being interrupted by Red Velvet Cookie. “Milly! Bat-Cat! GO!” Bat-Cat looked down at the Cake-Cookie and nodded. He flew over to the sputtering truck as Ginkster slowly turned it around. Glaring daggers at the small group of Cookies. But before he could hit the gas again, he found a ball of fur with sharp claws on his face. “Hello,” Bat-Cat purred coyly. Ginkster growled and grabbed the cat roughly and threw him out of the cockpit. (Bat-Cat was unharmed, luckily. He could fly, remember?) But when he turned back to his controls, he saw a young girl placing something on his control panel. “HEY! What do you think you’re doing!?” He snapped in irritation and confusion. Where did she come from? Milly paused for a second. She’d never been this close to the mob boss before.

His stern tone and sharp fangs were scary. But with his hair so frazzled, his sunshades lopsided, and that large bruise on his forehead. Somehow he didn’t seem so threatening. Especially not when she had the thing to stop him. So… She pressed the button and smiled. “Blowing up your big bad truck,” she replied with a gleeful grin. Ginkster was only more confused. In a rage he grabbed the girl, determined to throw her off just like he’d done the annoying cat moments ago. The girl screamed and trashed, but before Ginkster could do anything. He felt an intense pain in the back of his head as the sound of metal cracking against his skull rang in his ears. His vision blurred and he saw stars. Rye Cookie spun her pistol and returned it to her holster, before scooping up little Milly and jumping out of the cockpit, just as the machine started to rumble. She landed, rolled, and shielded the young girl with her body as the monster truck exploded and sent Ginkster flying.

“AAAAAAAHHHHHHHGGGGGHHHH!”

Ginskter landed with a thud. He didn’t even bother to get up. He was in too much pain. His forehead hurt from hitting the steering wheel. The back of his head hurt from being pistol-whipped by Rye Cookie. His clothes were smoking and he was covered in burns from the explosion. “Ugghhh,” he groaned as he slowly pulled himself up, looking behind him to see the smoldering wreckage of his monster truck. He growled. That sheriff had done a lot of things to annoy him but this was too far. He was determined to make an example of her once he got his hands on her. He jumped as said sheriff’s boot slammed into his line of vision. He looked up to find himself staring down the barrel of her pistol. “Game over, Ginkster,” she said with her usual cocky air that he hated so much. Ginkster stared back at her, and then began to chuckle, that chuckle turned into a laugh, and that laugh turned into a roar as he guffawed. “Are you nuts! This is MY town! These are MY people! You’ll never take me on my own turf ya... AH!” The mob boss yelped as he was roughly dragged to his feet and Rye Cookie put her pistol to his head. “That’s enough!” Ginkster chuckled. “Oh, don’t believe me? BOYS! Get her!” he shouted. A few grunts appeared from the shadows and shakily held up their weapons. “Hey! Woah!” Rye Cookie shouted, “Y’all don’t have to take orders from him anymore!” The Ginkgoblins paused, a look of confusion falling over their faces. “I know none of y’all joined his crew of your own choice! I know he’s been holdin’ yer families hostage! I know yer scared of him but this can all end right here and right now! If y’all let me lock him up he’ll never be able to hurt you or your family ever again!”

“Don’t listen to her! She’s just spouting nonsense! Y’all’s loyalty belongs to me and you know it! Pipsqueak! Shoot her already!” Ginkster shouted at a young Ginkgoblin boy who was shakily holding a pistol in his hands. The boy locked eyes with the sheriff, a look of fear on his face. “Ya don’t have to do what he says,” Rye Cookie said softly, “Y’all can all be free of him but that won’t happen if you just keep blindly following his orders like a buncha beaten Cake Hounds!”

“I said shoot her, Pipsqueak!”

“Y’all can rebuild your town! You can reopen your shops! Y’all can live with the law on your side and the justice you all deserve!”

“Shoot her or your sister gets it, Pipsqueak!”

The boy started crying. His hand was on the trigger but he couldn’t bring himself to pull it… He’d never… Never taken a life before. He knew what would happen as soon as he pulled that trigger… And there was no reversing that. “He only has the power over you that you give him! Are ya gonna keep letting him control you?!” Rye Cookie shouted. The Ginkgoblin boy looked around at the other grunts… None of them were willing to move against their boss… But none of them were willing to help him either. Then, he heard a familiar voice. “Pippin?” He turned to see a ragged female Ginkgoblin climbing out of the wreckage of a building. Other Ginkgoblins who were hiding under the rubble were quietly trying to goad her back to safety but she didn’t listen, not even when the other Ginkgoblins pointed their weapons at her. She looked at the young boy, back at the captured mob boss, and then back at her boy. “Pippin, please…” Tears fell from the boy’s eyes. After a few deep breaths, he threw the pistol to the ground and ran to her sobbing. “MOOOOM!!!” He embraced her in a tight hug as he sobbed into her chest, grinning from ear to ear as she hugged him back. Ginkster’s jaw dropped. “What in the– What do you think you’re do–!?” He stopped. Other members of his crew were throwing down their weapons. One sharpshooter even stomped on his dart gun and it splintered in two under his feet. “Wh… What’s happening?” The mob boss said in disbelief.

Other Ginkgoblins came pouring out of wreckage and alleys to find their family. His crew turned their backs on him and went looking for their siblings and parents. Calling their loved ones’ names. The town rose up in a chorus of tearful reunions and laughter. “Hear that, Ginkster?” Rye Cookie said, tugging his ear so she could whisper into it, “That’s the sound of these people gettin’ their freedom back.” Ginkster watched with wide-eyed disbelief as his town ignored him. He felt his chest get tight when he realized he’d been cornered. He was thrown to the ground again and ended up getting a mouthful of sand as Rye Cookie forced his hands behind his back. “Deputy, would you care to do the honors?” Rye Cookie said as Wheat Cake approached them with Sugar Cuffs. Wheat Cake nodded and cuffed the mob boss as he began to recite his rights. “You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law…” Ginkster growled and struggled, “You think this is the end? I’ll be back! And I’ll make all of you regret this! OMPH!” Wheat Cake pushed him back into the sand as he continued undeterred, “You have the right to an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be provided for you…” Rye Cookie smiled, her foot on Ginkster’s back and her arm resting on her knee like a hunter proudly displaying her kill. She looked around to see Bat-Cat returning Milly to her mother, who hugged her child tight and spun around with her in her arms. “I did it, Mommy! We did it!” Gail laughed, tears of joy spilling down her cheeks, “I know! I’m so so proud of you, Millicent.” She saw some other Ginkgobins returning Red Velvet’s and his friends’ belongings. She saw a town already beginning to heal from the criminal’s tyranny. And she couldn’t help but puff out her chest in pride a bit at another job well done.

“Thanks for making that portal to knock Ginkster off course at the last minute there, Licorice,” Dark Choco Cookie said, smiling at the Dark Wizard. “For a second I thought Healer Cookie and I were gonners,” he said, chuckling as Pomegranate Cookie hugged him tight. “Oooooh, I’m so glad you’re alright!” she squealed. Licorice Cookie blinked in confusion. “That… That wasn’t me Dark Choco Cookie.” The prince blinked. “What?” Licorice shook his head, “That wasn’t me, I don’t know who opened that portal, but I sure am glad you managed to cut through the nets before you got run over.” Now it was Dark Choco’s turn to be confused. “I didn’t cut us free. Someone else did… Red?” The Cake-Cookie hybrid shook his head. “I was on the other side of the battlefield. There was no way I could have reached you guys in time, not even with the whole set of Bouncy Caramel Toppings I have equipped.” Rye Cookie raised an eyebrow, there was something off. She left Wheat Cake to finish up with Ginkster as she went to investigate the nets that had held Dark Choco and Healer Cookie down. “Do you understand these rights as I have read them to you?” Wheat Cake said. Ginkster let out a cross between a sigh and a groan, “Yes…” he replied flatly.

Rye Cookie looked over the severed ropes. A familiar smell assaulted her senses. She dug through the ropes, and sure enough… There it was. She felt her jam boil. She stomped back over to her deputy and Ginkster, “One more thing… Some of yer boys had help gettin’ outta jail earlier today. So what I wanna know is…” She grabbed Ginkster by the collar and pulled him an inch from her face. “Where. Is. She?” she said in a low voice that made it clear she wasn’t messing around. Ginkster blinked. “Uh… Who?” he replied. “That low-down, no-good, low-life you’ve been working with! Chili Pepper Cookie! That’s who!” Ginkster blinked again… “Chili Pepp– Oh! Oh yeah! Lil’ Chili, I remember her. Hey uh… Sorry to say sheriff but I ain’t seen her since she was a youngin.” Rye shook him roughly, “Don’t lie to me you low-down rat! I know she and her partner helped spring her boys from the brig! I found one of her seeds in my town and I just found one over by the ropes you’d used to tie down Dark Choco and Healer Cookie!” she shouted, pulling the fresh seed out of her pocket. Ginskter sniffed it. “Mmmm, yup, that’s one a hers alright. But listen sheriff even if she was here I ain’t had dealings with her since she moved up in the world of thievery. I hear she’s stealing for some crazy powerful sorcerer nowadays. The last time we met she was knee high to a cactus and scraping for food.” Rye Cookie glared at him hard, but the mob boss’ stare remained unchanged. After a minute of stone cold silence she sighed and dropped him. “He’s not lying,” she said softly.

“So that means she was here? But she’s working independently from the Ginkgoblins,” Wheat Cake said softly. Rye Cookie growled and kicked the ground. “DANG IT! That darn rat slipped through my mits again! Oh, just you wait… I’ll catch that sneak thief if I hafta break every bone in my body to do it!” She shouted, firing a few shots into the sky and imagining that each time she shot she was hitting one of the neardowell’s limbs. The sound of sudden gunfire drew the attention of anyone nearby. All eyes were on Rye Cookie as she stood, breathing heavily, eyes wide with rage as she slowly took breath after breath and slowly returned to the present. Lowering her weapon and shielding her face with her hat. “Well, I’m afraid ta say that just ain’t gonna happen today, Sheriff,” Ginkster said with a cruel grin. Rye Cookie glared at the mob boss. “What was that, punk?” Ginkster chuckled, “What I mean is, you can’t cart me back to yer cute little jail and run after lil’ Chili at the same time.” Rye Cookie’s eyes widened in horror as his words sunk in. He was right. She was duty bound to ensure that Ginkster was locked up for his crimes, but if she went back now, by the time she returned to hunting Chili Pepper, she’d be long gone. Ginkster had the biggest grin on his face, it was clear he knew the inner turmoil Rye Cookie was facing and he was enjoying it. Despite being the one in cuffs, he wasn’t the only one with his hands tied.

Rye sighed in resignation, ignoring Ginkster’s cocky expression as she looked over at the rest of the group. “Well, Red Velvet… I’m afraid this is… Where we part ways.” The Cake-Cookie hybrid blinked. “What? What do you mean?” Rye Cookie shook her head. “I made a promise to Gail and the others. I’ve gotta take Ginkster back to town and make sure he gets his punishment… Y’all will just have to go on without me.” Poison Mushroom Cookie stepped forward,” But Rye Cookie, I thought you said we were gonna track down those mean Cookies together,” he said sadly. Rye Cookie sighed, “Yeah, I know. But… A promise is a promise, and I can’t lock him up and go after Chili at the same time,” she holstered her weapon. “She’s gotten away a hundred times before anyway… I guess once more ain’t gonna kill me… I’ll get her someday it… It just ain’t today.” Despite Rye’s attempt at keeping a straight face, the pain in her eyes was clear. Red Velvet had a feeling that if she wasn’t such a tough Cookie, she would have been crying by now. “But, Rye Cookie… Bringing Chili Pepper to justice is your dream,” he said softly. Rye Cookie chuckled. “Yeah, I know… Guess I’m gonna just have to keep dreaming for a little while longer.” She tipped her hat and turned to leave, “Good luck with the trials, y’all. I hope you find what you’re looking for.”

The group watched silently as Rye Cookie grabbed the mob boss by the back of his poncho and began roughly dragging him down the broken streets. Despite the rough handling and his subdued position, Ginkster was grinning ear to ear. Because he knew even though he was defeated, the circumstances were keeping Rye Cookie from going after the one she really wanted. So in a way, he’d won. But before Rye could get too far with him, Gail, Gary, Gadget, and Milly stepped in front of them, blocking their path. “Rye Cookie, you don’t have to do this,” Gail said sweetly. Rye Cookie blinked, and straightened herself. “Gail, I appreciate the sentiment, but I can’t just let him go, not after–”

“Yes, Ginkster does need to be locked up, what I mean is… You don’t have to do it,” the mother Ginkgoblin said, placing her hand on Rye’s free hand. “You’ve done enough, now let us return the favor.” Ginkster looked at Gail with a sneer of contempt. “Let us take him back to your town… I think we can manage him.”

“If you think I’m gonna go quietly with you lot of traitors you’re out of your mi–!” Ginkster began to shout. Before Gail gave him a glare that could strike fear even into the heart of the Blind King himself. Ginkster continued to make eye contact with her death stare in silence before he began to crumble under the gaze. He slowly turned away and lowered his head. Gail nodded sharply once before turning back to Rye. “He’s made a few too many enemies and not enough allies, we can manage him now that he’s no longer on his high horse… Or high truck rather. Haha.” Ginkster cried out in pain when Milly kicked his shin, “You big bully!” the child quipped, accenting the tease by blowing a raspberry. Red Velvet and his friends laughed as they watched the little girl scamper behind her mother who patted her head in approval. Ginkster could only glare helplessly at the little girl. Rye Cookie stuttered, “B-but… No, I can’t. You’d need a Cookie of the law ta…” Wheat Cake took out his phone. “Relax, I taught Sugary Juice Cookie the process in case we were both out of town. He knows where the spare key is. I’ll just call him and he can lock Ginkster up until we get back,” the Cake said, speed-dialing the bartender’s number. “But…” Rye said softly, finding it harder and harder to come up with a compelling argument. “Wait… What are y’all goin’ ta do about the other Cookies in the Valley? They don’t know the rest of y’all ain’t criminals like him. How are my people gonna tell the difference between the good Ginkgoblins and the bad ones?” she said. Wheat Cake scoffed. “Don’t attack the ones that aren’t in cuffs, obviously,” he said, rolling his eyes. “What if they think it’s some kind of trap?” The sheriff said, crossing her arms over her chest. Wheat Cake didn’t have a response for that. “No, Rye Cookie’s right… We’ll need some kind of symbol of peace to let the villagers know we mean no harm,” Gadget said, placing her hand to her chin in thought. “Symbol of… GASP wait a second!” Pomegranate Cookie said, digging through her bag and pulling something out before running up to the small group of Ginkgoblins. Wheat Cake raised an eyebrow when he saw what it was and sighed. “Yeah… Sugary Juice? They’re on their way now… The good ones will be wearin’...” He looked over at the group and let out a cross between a scoff and a sigh, “Friendship bracelets.”

Pomegranate finished tying the last of the colored ribbon together and helped the excited Milly slip it onto her wrist. The other three were now each wearing one like it in alternating colors. Pomegranate Cookie turned with a cute smile as she replaced her kit into her bag. “See, Licorice, I told you the Friendship Bracelet Making Kit would come in handy,” she said with a giggle. “I stand pleasantly corrected,” Licorice said with a smile. Rye Cookie looked down at Gail, her expression between disbelief and gratitude. “Rye…” the mother goblin said gently, “We can handle this criminal. If there’s another out there, then you go get ‘em. And don’t let anyone stop you,” she said with a nod. Rye Cookie could only smile and nod in gratitude. Ginkster scoffed, “Ugh! Gag, y’all are all just a bucha namby-pamby… OW! OW!” He cried when Gail pulled on his ear. “You should watch your tone! You’re in enough trouble as it is!” She shouted. The onlookers laughed at the sight of seeing their former leader and tormentor being handled and scolded like a child. “And another thing!” Gail said as she began dragging the former mob boss out of town with the other two at either side and Milly happily hopping behind her mother. She waved goodbye to her new friends as her mother continued her lecture. Ginkster could only lower his head in shame as the rest of the Ginkgoblins watched and mockingly waved goodbye and Gail berated him.

Red Velvet and his friends joined in the chorus of laughter. Rye Cookie watched with a warm smile as they disappeared down the trail. She turned to her deputy who gave her a nod. She unholstered her pistol and spun it. “Alright… You heard her, Softies! We’ve got a spicy thief to catch and daylight’s a wastin’ so let’s hit the trail! YEE-HAW!” She shouted, firing a few shots into the air before zooming down the road. Red Velvet and his friends wasted no time in running after her, their latest victory filling them with newfound resolve. The villagers waved goodbye and wished them good luck as the small band of desserts left the town and sped down the road. Red Velvet looked back to see the group of Ginkgoblins, standing in the middle of a town full of broken buildings and torn streets. Dirty and tired, but happy, safe, and hopeful. Hope shone in their eyes as they held their loved ones close for the first time in forever. That sight stuck with him for the rest of their journey as they ran into the horizon.

It was time to return to the Trials, and make their way to Hero’s Gate.

Chili Pepper and Wizard Cookie watched on a ledge overlooking the small town below them. Chili Pepper lowered her binoculars as she saw the small band of desserts leave the town. All smiles and cheers and with that annoying sheriff leading the pack. She scoffed. “I can’t believe you made me help them!” she snapped at her partner. Wizard Cookie held up a hand. “Patience, Chili Pepper Cookie. Everything is going according to plan. We need them for the time being. Once they open the way to Hero’s Gate they will no longer be of any use to us.” Chili Pepper smirked. “And then?” Wizard Cookie smiled, and levitated a Cursed Bandage into the air. “Then… They will be ours. Hahahah… HAHAH. AAAHHAAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!”

Their crazed laughter was joined by a set of childish giggles as the bandage was placed into their hands. They couldn’t wait to share the Blessing with their soon-to-be friends.

Chapter Text

“Okay, according to that rock formation over there, we should be back on the right track,” Licorice Cookie said, looking down at the map in the book. Rye Cookie scoffed, “I coulda told ya that, I know this desert inside-out and sideways. I could traverse it with mah eyes shut!” the sheriff said with a toothy grin. Red Velvet Cookie took a swig of water and started passing the bottle around to his friends. “How much farther to Hero’s Gate, Lico?” The Dark Wizard hummed as he looked back at the map. “It looks like we’re almost halfway there, we should be coming up to the Enchanted Oasis right about…”

“There!” Rye Cookie said, pointing off over a ledge. The rest of the group joined her, and looking down into the valley, they saw a large crystal-blue pool of water surrounded by large palm trees. The group gasped in delight, the promise of crisp water and shade after trekking through the unforgiving terrain and relentless heat of the desert was a welcome one. The way the water glittered in the sun seemed to beckon the Cookies forward. “We can refuel our water canteens here and then get back on the road,” Rye Cookie said, leaping off the ledge and sliding down the slope. Red Velvet Cookie watches her descend before following her, and almost losing his balance in the process. While Rye Cookie stuck a perfect landing, Red Velvet almost stumbled upon reaching the bottom of the slope. “Hey, Rye Cookie,” he said as she walked up to the oasis, “Shouldn’t we take a minute to rest or something?” Rye Cookie shook her head as she knelt down to refill her canteen. “No time to rest, Red. You know I can’t rest until I catch Chili Pepper.” Wheat Cake scoffed as he joined the two. “Maybe so, Rye. But as for the rest of us desserts who don’t have skulls as thick as molasses, a break would do us good. So unless you wanna run ahead and leave the rest of us behind… Which you’re known for,” he quipped, placing a hand on his hip. Rye dried her mouth on her sleeve and gave the Cake a look. “If you wanna treat ‘em like a bucha softies, then fine by me. But I know Red Velvet and his friends, and I think that some of ‘em wanna get to Hero’s Gate sooner rather than later. To find their family or memories, or whatever it is y’all are looking for,” Rye said as the rest of the group gathered around the pool.

Wheat Cake scoffed and rolled his eyes. “Cookies…” He mumbled under his breath disapprovingly. “You sure seem to have a problem with Cookies for a Cake with one,” Schwarzwälder said, walking up to the smaller Cake and standing at his side with one hand on his hip. Chiffon stood at his other side and barked something questioningly. Wheat Cake glared at the Werehound, “How many times do I have to tell you, she ain’t my Cookie? We’re just co-workers. I ain’t a pet like you.” Schwarzwälder stamped his foot on the ground and stood over Wheat Cake, baring his teeth ever so slightly. “I am not a pet,” he growled. Wheat Cake let out a quiet laugh, “Please, you gave up any individuality you had when you took that loser in.”

Schwarzwälder took out his hammer and held it in a way that made it clear he was ready to use it. “WHAT DID YOU JUST SAY ABOUT MY COOKIE!?” Their exchange had caught the attention of the group who had now paused whatever they were doing to look over at the trio of Cakes. Wheat Cake was undeterred by the Werehound’s display of intimidation, however, and continued, “All I’m saying is why should we stick our necks out for them? If you wanted to, you could crumble that moron in a single blow and yet you choose to take orders from him?” Schwarzwälder snorted, “You have no idea what he’s been through… Just because he’s smaller doesn’t mean he’s not strong.”

“Whatever… They’re all idiots who just get themselves into trouble… And if you wanna spend your life running circles around him trying to keep him safe…”

“That’s our job! Cakes are supposed to protect their Cookies!”

Chiffon barked in agreement.

“All you two are asking for is a buncha unnecessary heartache. But if you prefer being known only as This-Cookie’s-Cake or That-Cookie’s-Cake…”

Schwarzwälder leaned over so that he was directly over Wheat Cake and smirked, “You’re just jealous because Chiffon and I still have our Cookies. If you take so much pride in being stronger than them then why weren’t you able to protect yours?” Wheat Cake looked as if he had been shot. Without warning, he pulled out his boomerang and threw it at Schwarzwälder’s face at close range. The group gasped as the Werehound reared back, almost stumbling as he held his hands to his face. Once he regained his balance, he pulled his hands back and looked down to reveal a small stream of cherry jam running from his nose. “Schwarzwälder!” Licorice Cookie cried, running up to his Cake. The Werehound just blinked and looked sideways at Wheat Cake as he licked the jam off his upper lip. Wheat Cake snorted and began walking off. Rye Cookie gave her deputy a stern look as he passed her before joining the rest of the group, who were now checking on Schwarzwälder. “What got into him?” Red Velvet Cookie wondered aloud.

Schwarzwälder was now lying on his stomach while Licorice cradled his head in his lap and ran his hand through the Werehound’s thick chocolate frosting. Pomegranate used her magic to heal him. “I appreciate you standing up for me and all, Schwarzwälder, but you shouldn’t have brought up such a sore subject you know…” The Dark Wizard said. The Werehound snorted softly in response, “He started it… If he dislikes Cookies so much he shouldn’t be around ‘em.” Chiffon yapped something that made Red Velvet Cookie give him a look. “I’ll go talk to him,” Rye Cookie said, heading off after Wheat Cake and leaving the rest of the group to finish refilling their water and ensuring Schwarzwälder was ok.

Wheat Cake sat under one of the few shade trees the desert had to offer. He sat his hat in his lap and his eyes closed as he tried, and failed, to fight back the storm of memories that invaded his mind. The smell of freshly baked sweets, the sound of her musical laugh, the minty scent of her green hair, the way her eyes sparkled when she watched the Water Cookies wading down the river. “You know, Wheat Cake. One day, I’m gonna build a raft of my own and travel down the river just like them!”

But that day never came.

The Cake sighed loudly as Schwarzwälder’s words rang in his head. He bit back tears when the image of his Cookie’s fear-stricken face invaded his mind as a few Cursed Villagers who had once been their friends and neighbors wrestled her to the ground. “Wheat Cake, run!” Why did he listen? Why did he run like a coward instead of coming to her rescue? Sure, he most likely would have been overpowered and captured by the Blind King… But at least he would have gone down doing his job. “Sweet Mint Cookie…” He breathed with a lump in his throat.

“Wheatster?”

The blond Cake quickly rubbed the moisture from his eyes and placed his hat back on his head, refusing to make eye contact with the Sheriff. “I’m not going to apologize,” Wheat Cake said firmly. Rye Cookie sat down next to him, resting one arm on her knee, “Yer not a youngin and I ain’t yer Mama, so I can’t exactly ask ya to do that anyways,” she said with her signature grin. Wheat Cake gave her a side eye and turned to hide the smile that was tugging at the corner of his mouth. “Look, I know travelin’ with them is hard for you. You always shy away from Cookies with Cakes because of how painful the memories are.” Wheat Cake sighs, tracing the edge of his boomerang holster. Rye Cookie looked off into the horizon. “I know you miss her.” Wheat Cake felt his eyes growing wet again, but he maintained a stoic expression nonetheless. “But it wasn’t your fault. You’re a tough little Cake and I’ve known you long enough to know you did everything you could.”

“But I didn’t…” The Cake hissed bitterly, “I didn’t do everything I could… I ran away. I… I abandoned her!” Rye Cookie placed a hand on his head, smushing his hat slightly. “Wheat Cake…” He stubbornly avoided eye contact. “Y’know, chasin’ after one of the Blind King’s crew means I’ve gone toe to toe with his forces a handful of times. During my days as a bounty hunter, I’d joined a few guards and raids against the Cremlins. Had a few close calls, some so close I couldn’t sleep the night after. I’d lie awake with my trusty wholegrain-caliber to my chest, watching the cracks in the floor as if half-expecting one of those slimy custard critters to ooze their way into the room,” she said with a grimace. Wheat Cake nodded. He’d been lucky enough to only encounter the Cremlins once… And that was when he lost his Cookie to them. “So, I know how tough those little buggers are. And after all the times you’ve fought by my side keeping peace in the town… I know for a fact, you didn’t abandon her. You did everything you could. So don’t blame yourself. I’m sure Sweet Mint doesn’t.”

“Of course she doesn’t! She couldn’t if she wanted to! Her brain’s been reduced to happy-go-lucky goop!” He snapped. Rye Cookie sighed and fished a wheat stalk out of her pocket, placing it between her teeth. The two sat in silence for a few minutes, Rye Cookie absentmindedly chewing on the grain before spitting it into the sand. Wheat Cake sighs, “Look, the thing is…” He was about to confess what he saw the other night. The more he thought about it the more certain he was that was no trick of the mind. That was his Cookie the other night. She still remembered him even cursed, but was it really her, or just the curse trying to make her trick him into getting captured? He wanted to believe in his heart of hearts that it was the former. He wanted so badly to believe that she was still in there, trying to get back to him. But no Cookie had ever broken free from the Sonmum Aeternus Curse. He shook his head, no… He had to let go. She was gone. There was no getting her back. Even if that was really her last night, the curse had claimed her years ago. That… Thing. That wasn’t his Cookie. It was just a shell.

“Nothing…” Wheat Cake said with a defeated sigh, “It’s nothing… The dumb Brute just stepped out of line for a second.” Rye Cookie nodded, “He probably felt you did the same thing. If you get so worked up over someone badmouthing yer old Cookie what makes ya think any other Cake wouldn’t?” Wheat Cake chuckles bitterly. “Yeah, yeah, I know,” he replied, looking off into the horizon. Then he blinked and squinted. “Who’s that?” Rye Cookie shielded her eyes with her hand and followed his gaze. A small group of Cookies in hooded robes were hanging around the bridge that crossed over the canyon. “Cookies from one of the Desert Scavenger Tribes, maybe?” Rye Cookie suggested. “They don’t usually come this close to the road. And what are they doing with the bridge?” Wheat Cake said, watching as the Cookies fiddled with the poles. “I dunno, maybe they’re-” Rye Cookie gasped when she saw the ropes of the bridge snap, and something sharp shining in one of the hooded Cookie’s hands. “Hey!” She shouted, jumping to her feet and breaking into a run. Wheat Cake leapt to his feet and upholstered his boomerang, running after her. Rye Cookie fired a few shots which sent the small pack of Cookies running, but not before they managed to cut the other side of the ropes loose with a small dagger. The bridge fell, slamming into the other side as it dangled by the two remaining poles.

The Sheriff and her deputy slid to a stop just before going over the gorge. Both breathing heavily as they watched the group of Cookies take off. “Dangit!” Rye Cookie hissed, kicking the ground and sending some sand into the canyon, the cloud slowly disappearing out of sight as it drifted into the abyss below. Wheat Cake looked down and whistled, he never realized just how deep that gorge was.

“Rye Cookie! Wheat Cake!”

The duo looked up to see Red Velvet and his friends running up to meet them. They all stopped and looked down at the gaping maw ahead of them and the bridge that was now dangling on their side of the canyon. “What happened?” Red Velvet Cookie asked when he saw the two poles with frayed ropes on the other side. “Some no good, rotten lawbreakers decided to tamper with the trials, that’s what!” Rye Cookie replied, crossing her arms over her chest with a huff. “That bridge is the only way across this canyon,” Wheat Cake added. Bat-Cat peeked his head out from inside Licorice’s hood. “Mmm perrrhaps I could be of assistance,” he said, flying out and into the canyon. He found the other end of the rope bridge dangling off the edge. “All we have to do is tie it back together and we can be on our way!” the winged feline cheered, taking the rope in his paws. However, try as he might, the little pet couldn’t lift the bridge all by himself, no matter how hard he flapped his wings. Licorice chuckled softly. “Great idea, buddy. But I think you’re gonna need a little help,” the Dark Wizard said, lifting his scythe and levitating the two ends of the broken bridge back into place. Bat-Cat purred and the group cheered as it seemed their problem was quickly solved.

Bat-Cat wasted no time in flying to the other side and tying the bridge back to one pole, but flying to the other one he paused. “Uh oh… Meowster… The rope doesn’t reach all the way!” Licorice raised an eyebrow, “What? How is that even possible?” Rye Cookie sighed, “That must of been the side they were fiddlein’ with before Wheatster and I stopped ‘em. They must have cut off some of the rope and taken it with them to keep us from fixin’ the bridge.” Healer Cookie hummed in thought, “If only we had extra rope. I don’t suppose any of you thought to bring that?” The rest of the group mumbled amongst themselves. “Should have,” Dark Choco said. “Noted for next time,” Red Velvet Cookie added. “Pomegranate, do you have any more friendship bracelet material?” Licorice added. “Uh… Let me see,” she said, turning her pack inside out and dumping its contents.

Snacks, water bottles, a half-drunk strawberry milk glass, a photo of her and Dark Choco at some sort of festival, a sheet of stickers (which Poison Mushroom Cookie confiscated and began to stick on his face), a notebook, a screwdriver, a can of pepper spray, gel pens, and three different colors of glitter in plastic bottles. “Uh, nope,” she finally said.

“Why can’t you use your magic to teleport us all across, Licy?” Poison Mushroom asked, sticking a unicorn sticker to his forehead. Licorice sighed and shook his head, “Too much Mana, I mean… I guess I could but I would have to use up a good handful of Mana Jellies and…” Schwarzwälder chimes in, “What about teleporting just one of us?” Licorice raised an eyebrow, “Which one?” The Werehound grins, “Me! Choco Werehound Brute can hold up the other side of the bridge while you guys walk across!” The group looked at one another as they thought over the suggestion. “Y’know, that just might work,” Wheat Cake said. “And as each of us get to the other side we can help him hold it up.” Red Velvet nodded, “Great idea Choco Werehound!” Licorice readied his scythe, “Well, it's the best option we have at the moment. Ready, Schwarzwälder?” The Werehound nodded, getting into position as Licorice held his staff in front of him and closed his eyes. A violet glow appeared at the Dark Wizard’s feet as he began to channel his magic. On the other side of the canyon Bat-Cat sat atop one of the bridge poles as he felt the air shift. “You’ve gotta jump through as soon as I open the portals, ok?” Licorice said, opening one eye for a second as the wind picked up, causing his licorice locks to sway back and forth.

Schwarzwälder nodded, “You got it, boss!” Licorice raises his staff and spins it, purple electricity trailing behind the blade as two portals open, one on each side of the bridge. Without a second's hesitation, Schwarzwälder jumped through, disappearing for a moment before reappearing on the other side and landing with a thud. “And he sticks the landing! Woo!” Schwarzwälder cheered as Licorice released the spell. Breathing heavily and wiping sweat off his forehead as the portals disappear. “Just like we prrracticed!” Bat-Cat cheered, flying off the pole and onto the Werehound’s shoulder. Schwarzwälder got down on all fours and reached down over the cliff. Licorice held his breath until he came back up with the frayed rope in his hands. He pulled it as taut as he could and held it up to the post. “Atta boy, Schwarzwälder! Try to keep it as level as possible, ok?” The group looked at the bridge, it was a little shaky from one end being held up rather than tied down, but it was their only way to the other side.

“Well, what are we waiting for? Yeehaw!” Rye Cookie cheered, she was about to dash across the bridge when Dark Choco grabbed her by the back of her poncho and held her aloft. “Slow down there, Rye. Choco Werehound is pretty strong, but we don’t want to make it any harder for him to hold up the bridge. We’ll go across one at a time, slowly, no running,” he said firmly. Rye Cookie huffed, “I don’t take orders from you, pretty boy!” Wheat Cake couldn’t help but chuckle at the comical sight of Rye Cookie dangling in the air and kicking her legs. “Auuugh! Fine!” She huffed. Dark Choco sat her down, and she begrudgingly began to walk across the bridge, one hand on the side that was tied to the post. Schwarzwälder dug in his heels as he felt the rope shake in his hand. Even with Rye walking rather than bounding across he could still feel the pull of the extra weight on the bridge. Rye made it across with a slight bounce, turning with a grin to watch as Wheat Cake came across the bridge next.

Red Velvet scooped Chiffon up and held him on his shoulder as he carefully walked across the bridge with his arms to his side to help balance. Upon making it to the other side, he joined Schwarzwälder in helping him hold up the bridge. Rye Cookie grinned and joined in tugging on the rope. “My turn!” Poison Mushroom Cookie cheered as he began to dash across the bridge. Schwarzwälder grunted and gritted his teeth and he held on tighter. “Poison Mushroom Cookie! Slow down! If we let go of the bridge you’re gonna fall!” Poison Mushroom Cookie screeched to a stop. “Fall?” he said, glancing down. The sight of the dark abyss of the canyon greeted him and made his head spin. He started to feel dizzy before letting out a cry of fear and clinging to the side of the bridge, which caused Schwarzwälder, Red Velvet, and Rye to jerk forward before regaining their balance. “Poison Mushroom, what are you doing? You have to keep going!” Red Velvet Cookie shouted. “T-t-too h-high… It’s t-too high…” Poison Mushroom whimpered as he clung to the side of the bridge. “Poison Mushroom Cookie isn’t afraid of heights by any chance?” Healer Cookie asked. “No,” Dark Choco replied, “But the sight of that drop would be enough to make anyone’s resolve waver.” Licorice Cookie sighed, “I’ll have to go after him. Guys! Do you think you can handle both our weight?!”

Rye Cookie flashed a toothy grin, Red Velvet gave a thumbs up, and Schwarzwälder nodded, “We gotcha!” Chiffon barked in agreement. “Just be quick, Licorice,” Dark Choco warned. “I will,” Licorice said with a nod. He gingerly took a step out onto the bridge. Winching slightly as he felt it shift under his weight. The fact one side was being held up by a small group of desserts and not tied securely to a pole made it wobbly, add the fact that Poison Mushroom was pushing all his weight to one side, and that made the recipe for a very unsteady bridge dangling over a pitch black gorge. But Licorice took one look at the trembling Poison Mushroom Cookie, shaking like a leaf on the verge of tears, and his resolve returned. “Shroomie! Hang on! I’m on my way!” He called as he slowly made his way to the center of the bridge. “You can do it, Meowster!” Bat-Cat cheered. “Come on, Licorice. You’re almost there!” Red Velvet added. Licorice Cookie just focused on keeping his eyes on Poison Mushroom as he tried to keep his balance. “Don’t look down. Don’t look down. Don’t look down,” he mumbled to himself over and over like a mantra to keep himself from falling to the same fate as the smaller Cookie. He managed to make it to him and gently placed his hands on Poison Mushroom Cookie’s shoulders.

“H-hey, it’s ok, buddy. I’m here. Come on, you’re almost there, we’ve got to keep going.” Poison Mushroom Cookie shook his head, his eyes squeezed shut with tears looming in the corners. “I’m scared…” He whimpered. “I know, I know it’s scary, bud. But you’ve got to be brave, our friends are counting on us.” Poison Mushroom Cookie opened his eyes a little, looking up at the Dark Wizard with a pleading expression. Licorice Cookie slowly bent down to be closer to eye-level with him, wincing when he felt the bridge sway under him as he shifted his center of gravity. “Hey, you know what this reminds me of?” He said softly, “Back in the Witch’s basement after that flood. Remember that? We had to get to higher ground and back then we only had a thin board of wood to walk across.” Poison Mushroom Cookie nodded, “Y-yeah, I remember. That was scary, the water was so loud…” Licorice Cookie smiled, “Do you remember what we did when you got too scared to walk across?” Poison Mushroom Cookie blinks, his trembling beginning to settle a bit as the memory came to him. “We… We held hands… A-and walked across together and… And sang a song.”

Licorice nods and holds out his hand, “Do you remember the song?” Poison Mushroom Cookie blinks, slowly removing one hand from the side of the bridge and shakily placing it in Licorice’s open palm. “O-one foot in front of the other…” He began to sing, “T-that’s all that you have to do.” Licorice Cookie nodded and stood up, joining in with the tune, “Put one foot in front of the other, that’s how we’re gonna make it through.” Poison Mushroom smiled softly, and slowly took his other hand off the side of the bridge as the two began to slowly walk towards the other side, singing their song together, “Put one foot in front of the other! Step by step though we may be scared. One foot in front of the other, keep it up, hop, skip, and jump, one more step and then we’re there!” Poison Mushroom Cookie triumphantly bounced to the end and hit solid ground. Throwing his arms out and hugging Licorice tight with a laugh as they reached the end. Schwarzwälder and Red Velvet both breathed a sigh of relief and let their hold on the rope relax ever so slightly to rest. Licorice joined in helping keep the bridge steady with his magic as Pomegranate held Healer Cookie’s hand and helped him across the bridge. And finally, Dark Choco Cookie carefully made his way across. “Phew,” Rye Cookie said, wiping the sweat from her brow. “That’s the last one.” She watched as Schwarzwälder finally let go of the rope and let the bridge fall back down, leaving it swaying sideways over the canyon. “I’ll be sure to get that fixed after we catch Chili Pepper! Oh, and uh… You guys complete the trials of course,” Rye Cookie said with a grin.

Licorice Cookie opened the book to the section with the map of the Brown Sugar Valley as Bat-Cat alighted on his shoulder. “Looks like there’s only one more canyon we’ll have to travel through before we get to Hero’s Gate! We’re almost there!” Red Velvet took the lead, “Then what are we waiting for? Let’s run!” As the group sped off down the trail once more Wheat Cake looked up at Rye Cookie. “Who do you suppose were those Cookies who sabotaged the bridge?” Rye Cookie grunted, “I dunno, but when I find him, I’m gonna give ‘em a piece of my mind,” she said, flashing her pistol with a grin.

The group came to a large mountain with the middle hollowed out to make a path. The path cutting through offered welcome shade from the hot sun, just like the canyon that housed the Pilgrim’s Village. “We need to be quiet through here, gang,” Rye Cookie warned, “This place is infamous for its landslides.” Licorice Cookie looked up from the book with a look of worry, “Landslides?” Rye Cookie nods, “See those rocks up there? They’ll come tumbling down into the gorge and crush us all if there’s too much action. So we’ve gotta make this trip nice and easy. So no magic blasts, no shouting in case the echo causes vibrations, and here’s hoping no fights. If ya see a critter, leave it be and it’ll leave ya alone. Do. Not. Attack. Got it?” The rest of the group nodded in agreement. “Got it.”

And with that, they set off. The air was tense at first as the Cookies were on edge to see what new challenge would be thrown their way. But by the time they’d reached the halfway point, many of them began to relax and talk amongst themselves as they walked. Rye Cookie, on the other hand, was on high alert for the first sign of danger at all times, even though it seemed peaceful. After all, she still had Chili Pepper to catch, and though she hadn’t seen any more of her fallen seeds or smelt her spice since they left the Ginkgoblin village, she knew she was on the right track. She had to be. Hero’s Gate was full of treasures, she knew that scoundrel would never pass up a coin on the ground, much less a potential pile of riches. Perhaps her hypervigilance was what alerted her to the sound of footsteps above them. She looked up to the cliff sides, and her eyes widened as she drew her gun. “Hey! What do you think you’re doing!?” The rest of the team froze at hearing her shout and followed her gaze up the mountain face where a small band of hooded Cookies were standing. One was knocking at a small rock with a staff, a small rock that was in front of larger rocks, which were in front of… Even bigger rocks.

Dark Choco’s eye widened in horror. “Go… GO!” He shouted as the group tried to run forwards but it was too late. The small stone had already been dislodged and the tell-tale sounds of rumbling began. Rye Cookie tried to take a few shots at their unknown assailants as they fled, but Dark Choco Cookie scooped her up to keep her from getting crushed by a falling rock. The sounds of rumbling rose to a thunder as rocks and boulders fell all around them. Setting off a chain reaction that spread through the entire gorge. The Cookies split up as they scrambled this way and that to avoid the falling rocks. Licorice tripped and fell flat on his face in his haste to escape. A boulder nearly crushed him before Schwarzwälder stepped in and swung his hammer, smashing the rock to smithereens. Healer Cookie and Pomegranate used their magic to shield their friends from the smaller rocks. Red Velvet scooped up Chiffon and quickly looked for a crevice or cave of some sort to hide in. “There’s too many! What do we do!?” Licorice Cookie shouted.

Healer Cookie gasped softly, as somewhere… Deep in the back of his mind, a memory broke through. Like the floodgates opening after a crack in a dam became a fissure. “There’s too many!” A deep voice shouted as he swung his sword to fight the oncoming massive hand that tried to reach for him, taking one of its gnarled fingers in the process. “What do we do?”

“It’s too late to retreat now! They’ve got us surrounded!” A voice shouted beside him, the voice of someone he treasured. “I wish we’d known there’d be this many!” He created a blast of light that temporarily blinded the monsters and left them stumbling back, howling in anger and pain. “Well, hindsight is 20/20. It’s not like we can just start this fight over.” A snooty voice quipped. “No…” He remembered saying, “But we can go back to where we started! Everyone…”

“...Gather around me!” Healer Cookie shouted as he raised his staff. The Cookies rushed over to him, tripping over fallen rocks and scrambling over boulders as the light of Healer Cookie’s staff grew stronger. Poison Mushroom clung to Licorice for dear life, Wheat Cake threw his boomerang at an oncoming rock to make it change course before it hit Pomegranate, Red Velvet hugged Chiffon close as the light enveloped them. When they opened their eyes, they were back at the canyon entrance, the path now blocked by the slowly settling fallen stones. The group all took a moment to catch their breath, watching the crags and ledges of the canyon for any sign of the hooded Cookies.

“Looks like they got away,” Wheat Cake sighed. “For now, but I’ll track ‘em down,” Rye Cookie vowed. “Weren't those the same Cookies who sabotaged the bridge?” Wheat Cake asked. Rye Cookie crossed her arms over her chest and nodded, “Mhm.” Red Velvet stepped up to the pile of stones blocking their path. “Great! Now what do we do? That was the only way through! How are we going to get to Hero’s Gate?” Pomegranate stepped next to him, “Oh, come on guys. It’s not that bad, we can just climb over,” she said, scrambling onto one of the rocks before Dark Choco pulled her off. “Pomegranate, no! We don’t know if those rocks are stable. Trying to walk over them might cause them to shift and you could get caught between them!” Rye Cookie nodded, “I’m afraid His Highness is right about that, after a rockslide ya have to be real careful when moving ‘em,” she sighed, “It will take weeks to clear this out.” Licorice Cookie tapped his chin. “Can’t go over it…”

“What if we SMASH them to pieces!?”

“Might cause another landslide, Choco Werehound.”

“Can’t go under it… Can’t go through it…” Licorice mumbled.

“Sure would be nice to have one of those rock-melting potions Alchemist Cookie told us about.” Red Velvet sighed.

“Well, whatever we do we better do it quick! Those Cookies are getting farther away by the minute!” Rye Cookie exclaimed.

“Chili Pepper and Wizard or those Cookies who broke the bridge and caused the rockfall?” Wheat Cake said, raising an eyebrow.

“Both!”

“Guys!” Licorice Cookie exclaimed. Everyone looked to the Dark Wizard who was now digging through his pockets with a sigh. “It’s gonna take every Mana Jelly I have, but I have a spell that can get us over the rock pile.” The group watched with bated breath as he popped a Mana Jelly into his mouth and pointed his scythe at the rock pile. With a flash of violet light, the glow hovered over the rocks before making a translucent ribbon of solid magic. The group breathed in awe, Healer Cookie stepped up to the foot of the Magic path hovering over the stones and tapped it with his staff. “Ah, yes, a Shapeforming spell. Forming pure magic into anything one can imagine, in this case a simple bridge, good thinking Licorice.” The Dark Wizard nodded, “Yeah, but it takes a ton of mana so I can’t just make a bridge across the entire canyon. I’ll have to recycle the Mana as we go. So we have to keep going, no stopping for any reason, otherwise, I might run out of Mana before we make it to the other side.” The rest nodded in understanding.

Rye Cookie took the lead and ran down the new path. As he ran, the path would appear under her feet out of thin air. And as the Cookie bringing up the rear made it farther down the magic bridge, it would disappear behind them. And the cycle continued as they ventured closer and closer to the end of the trial. Red Velvet Cookie looked down, he could see the pile of rocks under the magic footpath tinted with the purple hue of Licorice Cookie’s magic. Looking behind him he could see the Dark Wizard with his face set in concentration as he focused on keeping the spell going and keeping up with his friends at the same time. Licorice felt sweat bead up on his forehead as he clutched his scythe, but looking around he noticed they were past the point the rockfall had begun, so they were making progress.

He’d gone through half his stash of Mana Jellies when they saw something that made them pause. A group of Cream Lynxes were prowling around the rocks. Some stones were shifting under their weight, which made them scramble back to the safety of the cliff sides. But one stayed on the rocks and pawed in between the cracks, yowling loudly. “What’s going on?” Rye Cookie wondered aloud as the group came closer. “They don’t usually act like that.” Most of the Cream Lynxes moved back as the Cookies came closer, some slinking back into the caves in the mountainside. But the one on the shaking rocks stayed, glancing up at the Cookies once and then returning to trying to dig through the rocks.

“That's awful strange,” Rye Cookie said as she slowed to a stop and stood at the edge of the Magic path. Bat-Cat’s ears perked up “I think she's…” His eyes widened, and he flew off Licorice Cookie’s shoulder. He hovered over the rocks where the Cream Lynx was pawing. The Lynx hissed softly but calmed down after Bat-Cat mewed a few words in cat language. “What’s going on?” Red Velvet Cookie called as Bat-Cat flew down to look into the gap the Lynx was pawing at. A small, pitiful mew sounded from within. Bat-Cat gasped, “Meowster! There’s a Cream Lynx kit trapped under the rubble!” The Cookies gasped. “What?! Let me see!” Red Velvet shouted, running towards the rocks Bat-Cat was hovering over. He’d forgotten about the path, so Licorice hastily made a new branch of magic so Red Velvet wouldn’t fall onto the rocks below. Red Velvet knelt down and looked into the gap the Cream Lynx was pawing at. He could see a small Lynx kit, covered in dust and curled into a ball in a small space under the rocks. The baby Cream Lynx was shaking like a leaf and making a frightened mewing noise. She was lucky enough to have the rocks fall around her rather than on top of her during the rockslide, but now she was stuck with no way to get out without risking the rocks caving in on her and getting crushed.

“Do you see it, Red Velvet?” Licorice Cookie asked. “Yeah, she’s trapped under the rocks,” he flinched as the rocks shifted, watching as a few pebbles and a cloud of dust fell onto the kitten, who mewed in fear. The Mama Lynx yowled in fear, calling for her baby. Bat-Cat flew up to her and tried to talk to her to calm her down. “Guys! We’ve gotta get her out of there before that gap caves in!” Red Velvet Cookie exclaimed. Licorice Cookie stuttered a bit, waving his hands as he tried to come up with an argument. “B-but… We… The bridge. Velvet, we have to keep going. I only have so much Mana before-” He felt someone tug at his robes and looked down to see Poison Mushroom giving him puppy dog eyes. “But Licorice Cookie, if we don’t help it the kitty will get squished!” Licorice’s eyes darted between Red Velvet who was giving him a look with his arms crossed over his chest, Bat-Cat trying to calm the panicking mama cat, and Poison Mushroom’s pleading expression. Having no choice, he relents with a sigh, “Curse you heart for existing…” He mumbled under his breath, “Alright,” he said, straightening himself and readjusting his grip on his staff, “Bat-Cat! Can you squeeze into the hole and fly her out?” The winged feline purred softly as he hovered over the entrance to the gap. “I think so, Meowster!”

Red Velvet watched as Bat-Cat tucked his wings in and squeezed into the small hole. He sat next to the frightened kit and began mewing softly. “It’s ok, we’re going to get you out of here,” he mewed in cat language. “I’m scared,” she meowed back, “I want my Mommy.” Bat-Cat pressed his small nose to her forehead, “We’ll get you back to her, I promise. She’s waiting out there for you.” She lifted her head slightly and responded with a scared whimper, and meowed, “We… We were playing when the rocks started falling. S-she told me not to wander off b-but I… Oh, Mommy I’m so sorry, I should have stayed with you.” Bat-Cat hears a soft rumbling as the walls around them shift. The small pet throws his body over the kit, shielding her with his wings as he watches a rock above them shift and slide closer before settling again. He lets out a breath he didn’t realize he was holding as he hears the Cookies try to convince the kit’s mother to back away and off the rocks. He hears her pack meowing for her to come back to the ledge and away from the unstable rocks. “Mommy!” The kitten shouted in cat-speak. “Bat-Cat! Can you fly her out?” He heard Licorice Cookie shout. Bat-Cat looked up at the entrance of the hole, spread his wings, flicked his tail, and flew out. Then he flew back in. He spread his wings over the small kit, measuring. He hummed as he looked around at the wall of rubble around him, holding his breath for fear that even that small bit of movement would cause the stones to come tumbling down on them. “I think so, but it won’t be easy to fly her out without hitting the sides. Maybe if I carry her by her scruff…”

“No!” Licorice Cookie said firmly, “There’s another way. Remember back at the bridge when I made the portal to get Schwarzwälder to the other side? We’re gonna do the same thing here.” Pomegranate gives the Dark Wizard a concerned look. “Open a portal while keeping the magic bridge up? Isn’t that going to take a lot of power?” Licorice looked down at the handful of Mana Jellies in his pocket. “It will be a small portal, just big enough to get Bat-Cat and the kit through. Red Velvet! Be ready to catch them as soon as they come through!” Red Velvet Cookie nodded and gave his friend a thumbs-up, “You got it!” Chiffon barked and wagged his tail in excitement. “Alright, positions everyone!” Licorice Cookie cheered as he readied his scythe. Bat-Cat mewed to comfort the kit as he gently wrapped his arms around her small torso. He could feel the rapid rise and fall as her terrified breaths racked her small body. He carefully nipped the scruff on the back of her neck and on instinct, the kit began to relax her body and curl her legs and tail into her chest and stomach to make herself easier to carry. Red Velvet watched the entrance carefully, taking a stance with his arms open ready to grab them as soon as the portal opened.

Licorice closed his eyes as purple electricity flowed around the staff of his scythe. The group watched with bated breath as a small portal of violet energy appeared just above Red Velvet’s head. A faint purple glow could be seen from the hole as the rocks shifted again. “Bat-Cat! Get out of there!” Licorice Cookie shouted as the rocks below finally caved in and the hole was sealed. Red Velvet gasped and Chiffon barked in panic when Red Velvet saw the small portal above him ripple. In a flash of light, Bat-Cat leapt from the portal, yowling with the Cream Lynx kit in his arms. Red Velvet just barely managed to catch them and almost fell off the magic bridge from the force of their fall. Once he regained his bearings he looked down to see the two small felines in his arms and he smiled. The rest of the group cheered as the portal closed and Licorice lowered his scythe, sweating and breathing heavily, but smiling nonetheless. Bat-Cat flew into his Cookie’s arms and purred. Licorice sighed in relief. “For a minute there I thought I’d lost you again,” the Dark Wizard said, stroking his beloved pet behind the ears.

The mama Lynx meowed happily as Red Velvet returned her baby to her, the little Lynx was squirming in Red Velvet’s arms with excitement. He was forced to let go before he lowered her all the way to the ground and the kit landed on her feet and ran up to her mother, who began grooming her and tucked her into her chest with her large paw. Chiffon wagged his tail rapidly and smiled up at his Cookie with his tongue stuck out in its usual cute fashion. “You’ve sure got a penchant for saving kids, Red Velvet!” Rye Cookie exclaimed, “First Milly back at the Ginkgoblin village, and now that cute little kitten.” Red Velvet chuckled sheepishly and rubbed the back of his neck. “Yeah, I guess so.”

Dark Choco looked down at Licorice, who was panting and struggling to hold his staff up all the way. His arms were shaking and he was starting to sway. “I think we better find somewhere we can take a quick break. Licorice is exhausted from running his magic nonstop,” the prince suggested. Red Velvet nodded in agreement. “Merow!” The mama Cream Lynx called as she turned around and flicked her tail, leaping up onto a ledge and turning back to watch the small group of desserts. Red Velvet Cookie blinked, “I think she wants us to follow her,” he said to his friends. Dark Choco Cookie hummed, “Those ledges are a bit narrow, but they’re still more stable than the rocks. Come, everyone! Pomegranate, stay close to Healer Cookie. Cookies, onward!” And with that, the group scrambled onto the mountainside. They each found a fairly large ledge to rest on, Licorice practically collapsing as he found a spot between two rocks. Red Velvet looked out ahead to see the large stretch of rock-covered road ahead of them. He sighed, “Hey guys? Think we could just walk along the edge of the mountain instead of trying to take the trail?” Rye Cookie shook her head, “It’s too dangerous, some of these ledges aren’t as wide, unless you have sharp claws like the Lynxes you’ll have a hard time staying on.”

“Merow!”

The group looked up to see the clan of Cream Lynxes watching them. The biggest nods her head in one direction before climbing up the mountain. Red Velvet furrowed his brow, “I wonder…” he mumbled before jumping up and following the group of big cats. “Red Velvet Cookie! Where are you going?” Dark Choco Cookie called as the Cake-Cookie scrambled up the mountain. Chiffon yapped and did his best to follow his Cookie. Red Velvet watched the Lynxes disappear behind a ledge and he steeled himself. Leaping up onto a rock and digging his Cake claw into the side of the mountain, he pulled himself over the edge. He looked up to see the Lynxes standing near the mouth of a cave entrance, watching him as if waiting for him to follow. “Woah,” he breathed, pulling himself up and over the ledge. “Red Velvet Cookie!” Dark Choco called. Red Velvet poked his head over the edge and called down. “There’s a cave of some sort up here! I think the Cream Lynxes want us to follow them inside!” Rye Cookie’s eyes widened and she grinned, “Heh, well what do you know? That must be the old abandoned mines!”

Dark Choco raised an eyebrow and looked down at the sheriff, “Mines?” Rye Cookie nodded, “Yeah, the founders of Pilgrim’s Path were miners before the town became a tourist attraction. Wait a minute, those mineshafts run from one end of the valley to the other. If we go through them, we should be able to get back onto the path to Hero’s Gate!” Licorice raised his head, “Really?” he pulled the book out of his backpack and flipped through its pages. “Oh yeah, there's one line here that says the town used to be a mining settlement and that the valleys were made by dynamiting the mountains.” Pomegranate gave the Sheriff a look, “Wait, if you knew about the cave system, then why didn’t you suggest that in the first place, Rye Cookie?” Rye Cookie stuck a piece of wheat in her mouth and chewed on it, speaking out of the corner of her mouth. “Because the mines nowadays are home to all sorts of critters, including them,” she said, pointing at the group of Cream Lynxes that had joined Red Velvet at the ledge. “Cream Lynxes are aggressively territorial. They don’t take kindly to folks tromping into their turf uninvited.”

“Well, it would seem we’re being invited,” Bat-Cat reasoned as he watched the mama Lynx give her baby a lick. “Yeehaw! If we can find an old minecart to ride through the shafts, we’ll be back on track in two shakes of a Cake’s tail!” Rye Cookie cheered. “Well, what are we waiting for? Cookies, onward!” Dark Choco cheered, pointing his sword up. Schwarzwälder and Dark Choco helped the smaller Cookies climb onto the ledge above them before climbing up themselves. The group of Cream Lynx led the way as the group entered the cave.

The inside of the cave was dimly lit by old lanterns that were still burning in a faint glow, as well as the plethora of multicolored crystals that grew in the walls and along the cave floor. Red Velvet breathed in awe as he took in the sight of the many soft colors that danced on the walls from the minerals. “What are those?” he wondered aloud. “Pop Rocks,” Rye Cookie replied, “Wild ones too. Only natural grown ones get this big.” Poison Mushroom Cookie stopped to giggle at his distorted reflection in a Pop Rock’s surface. “Pretty,” he chuckled. “Why are they called Pop Rocks?” Licorice Cookie asked. “Because the sugar inside them is unstable,” Wheat Cake replied, breaking off a small piece of one of the colorful rocks. “So, if given a direct hit they…” He threw the rock at the cave wall and it exploded in a cloud of sparkles and dust. “Pop.” The group stepped back a bit and recoiled from the unexpected explosion. “Okay, note to self. Do NOT touch those,” Licorice Cookie said, shying away from the brightly colored minerals. Rye Cookie laughed, “Touching ‘em won’t make ‘em pop. It needs a direct hit. This is what the miners of old used to dig out. Wild Pop Rocks sell for good gold because of their explosive abilities. They’re used in making everything from dynamite to big fireworks!” Red Velvet hummed as he picked up a fallen Pop Rock and ran his thumb across the smooth surface, “I bet Cherry Cookie would love to get her hands on one of these.”

The Cream Lynxes dispersed around the cave as the entrance widened to reveal the vast network of catacombs and tunnels, held up by wooden support beams and tools lying long forgotten in corners and rock piles. “Wow,” Red Velvet Cookie breathed as he took in the sight. “So all this was made by Cookies?” Rye Cookie nodded, “Yup, Cookies came here to mine out the Pop Rocks. But once the storage was dried up, they moved on to the next digging site. And they left behind these tunnels, which became home for all sorts of desert critters to escape the hot sun and predators. From Cream Lynxes, to Candy Bats, to…” Something whizzed past and alighted itself on a cluster of Pop Rocks. Something very similar to size and shape to one of their own companions. “Hey, look, Licorice! A wild Bat-Cat!” Red Velvet exclaimed, watching the tabby-colored cat with yellow wings as he pawed at the Pop Rocks. Licorice Cookie’s Bat-Cat poked his head out of The Dark Wizard’s hood and purred in excitement. It was the first time he’d seen another of his kind in the flesh. “Well, what do you know? So this is our natural habitat,” Bat-Cat mewed as he looked around the cave, “Hello, brethren!” The pet chirped, waving a wing in greeting to the larger Bat-Cat.

The wild Bat-Cat mewed something back, before clawing off a piece of Pop Rock and taking it in his mouth. He flew down into a cavern and disappeared from sight. Licorice Cookie’s pet felt curiosity overwhelm him and flew to the edge of the chasm to see the wild variant of his species flying towards a minecart. Despite Dark Choco Cookie’s protests and request that the group stay on the path, Licorice, Poison Mushroom, Pomegranate, and Red Velvet all joined Bat-Cat at the edge of the cliff. Rye and Dark Choco sighed and begrudgingly joined them, knowing the more curious and adventurous members of their group wouldn’t leave until they had been satisfied. “What’s he doing?” Red Velvet wondered aloud. Rye Cookie watched as the wild Bat-Cat alighted on an old abandoned minecart, and a female Bat-Cat poked her head out of the cart. Rye Cookie chuckled at the smaller Cookies’ excited gasps and murmurs at the sight of the winged feline’s mate. “If I were to guess, I’d say that Papa Cat was bringing home some fiddles for his brood,” Rye Cookie remarked. Her theory was proven correct when some Pup-Kittens started clawing their way out of the cart to reach their father. The mother Bat-Cat meowing firmly as she could and picking her children up by the scuff of their necks and placing them back in their nest before they could fall out.

And while the rest of the group were giggling at the sight of the kittens, Licorice was rasing an eyebrow as he saw the wild Bat-Cat carefully breaking up the Pop Rock. “Wait, he’s feeding them rocks?” The Dark Wizard said in disbelief. Bat-Cat scoffed, “Makes me glad I was raised by a Cookie.” Rye Cookie laughed heartily. “Pop Rocks ain’t just any ordinary rock. While yes, the sugar inside them is unstable, it’s also safe to eat.” She said, snapping a nearby Pop Rock off the cluster and taking a bite to prove her point. “C’mon, try one!” She insisted, tossing a blue Pop Rock to Red Velvet. “They melt in your mouth so no need to worry about breaking your teeth,” Rye Cookie assured him in response to the uncertain look he was giving the mineral in his hand. “Well… I've never been one to turn down food,” Red Velvet said with a shrug as he popped the Pop Rock into his mouth. After two chews, he began to smile and make satisfied noises. “Mmm, MM! Wow!”

“What’s that sound?” Poison Mushroom Cookie wondered aloud. “Probably what yer hearing is the Pop Rock dissolving,” Wheat Cake said. “I wouldn’t call this melting, more like… Fizzing,” Red Velvet said as he pressed the candy to the roof of his mouth with his tongue. The sensation was unlike anything he’d ever experienced before, like tiny firecrackers of flavor going off in his mouth. Chiffon barked and pawed his Cookie’s leg. Red Velvet laughed, “Aw sure, buddy. Of course you can have some too!” Red Velvet said, breaking off a Pop Rock and handing it to his Pupcake. Chiffon wagged his tail and Red Velvet laughed as the Cake Hound tore into the treat, pieces of the sparkling candy flying as the Cake voraciously devoured it.

While the rest of the group were laughing at the Pupcake’s antics, Rye Cookie and Wheat Cake went ahead to scout out which of the tunnels they should take. It didn’t take long for Rye Cookie to find the tunnel that had a breeze echo from the outside and whistle the rest of the team over. “It’s this way! All we’ve gotta do is follow those tracks!” Dark Choco joined her at the tunnel entrance, “Are you sure?” Rye Cookie scoffed, “Is the desert dry?” Dark Choco chuckled softly, “I suppose that’s a yes.” Suddenly the sound of a small explosion made them pause. The group turned to see Red Velvet stuffing his pack full of Pop Rocks and accidentally dropping a few in the process.

“Red Velvet…” They all said in unison. The Cake-Cookie blinked, “What? These things are good! And besides, Rye Cookie said they were rare! Who knows when we’ll be able to enjoy a candy like this again!?” Licorice and Pomegranate laughed and Dark Choco shook his head, “Honestly, Red. You are worse than my brother sometimes.” Red Velvet slung the pack over his shoulder with a defiant air and joined the rest of his friends at the tunnel entrance. The Cream Lynxes gather around in a semicircle, meowing what was translated by Bat-Cat to be well wishes and farewells. Rye Cookie tipped her hat to the clan of big cats and unholstered her pistol. “Alrightly, let go catch some-”

POP

The faint sound of a Pop Rock explosion cut her off. Looking back the group didn’t see anything out of the ordinary, but they definitely heard the dying faint echo that reverberated throughout the cave. “What was that?” Licorice Cookie said. Wheat Cake shrugged, “Probably just a Pop Rock Red Velvet had been fiddling with falling over,” the Cake reasoned. “Hey!” Red Velvet exclaimed indignantly, much to the rest of the team’s amusement.

But what they didn’t notice was the two Cookies hiding behind a rock wall covered in Pop Rocks. One was holding his breath as he looked at his spicy companion with her arms full of sparkling Pop Rocks. “Will you put those down? You almost got us caught!” Wizard Cookie hissed in a low whisper. “Leave behind something this shiny? You’re out of your mind!” Chili Pepper whisper-hissed back. Wizard Cookie facepalmed and groaned. “Look,” he said through gritted teeth, “When we get to Hero’s Gate, you can have every single treasure in there, I’ll help you carry every last coin back to the Castle if you just put those down. Right now we need to travel light to avoid being seen.” Chili Pepper looked torn, but after mumbling to herself and seething a bit, she relented. “You better make good on that promise, Pointy Hat!” she hissed as she carefully put the crystals down with a despondent expression. Wizard Cookie peeked over the rock to see the group disappearing into the tunnel. “Come on! There’s no time to lose!” He exclaimed, grabbing his companion’s hand and casting a sleeping spell over the Cream Lynxes so they could pass without a fight.

As the light at the end of the tunnel came into view, Red Velvet Cookie broke into a run. He took the front and shut his eyes as the wall of light blinded him for a moment. Once his eyes recovered, it wasn't a harsh desert with seas of sand that greeted him, but a path paved with white chocolate and inset with gemstones and white marble columns. The Cookies gazed at the land before them in wide-eyed awe. Rye Cookie smiles proudly as she stood next to the small group of Cookies. She felt the wind blow through her hair and ruffle her poncho as she stared at the road ahead.

“Congratulations, y'all,” she said with her signature grin, “You're the first challengers to pass the second of the three trials.” She waved her hand over the land of white chocolate and sparkling marble structures. “Welcome to Hero’s Gate.”

Dark Choco Cookie could barely believe it. Now that it was actually happening it felt like a dream. Like he was watching someone else's story play out. But no, this was real. He was finally going to get some answers. “We made it,” He breathed. Pomegranate placed a hand on his and smiled up at her companion. He smiles back and nods, Red Velvet grins taking his sword as he recognizes the look in his mentor's eye.

Dark Choco took a deep breath, placed his hand to the hilt of his sword, “Cookies…” with a flourish, he pointed his sword down the trial as the group cheered in unison.

“Onward!”

Chapter Text

Azure pools of water were scattered across the sides of the pathway. Multicolored sugar glass was embedded in the stones of the footpath. Bright fuchsia hearts and violet diamonds. A golden triangle here and a green flower-shaped stone there. “I think those are meant to represent the Ancient Hero’s Soul Jams,” Licorice Cookie said, comparing the stones in the path to a page in the book. Dark Choco Cookie nodded, “Yes, the Soul Jams were a special set of magical artifacts. They gifted the Heroes with-”

“-Strength unlike any mortal Cookie ever wielded before or since! As well as… Immortality!?” Licorice Cookie exclaimed, cutting Dark Choco off as he read aloud from the book. Red Velvet did a double take, “Wait, the Ancient Heroes were immortal?” Dark Choco chuckled, “Well, in theory. My father was well into his thousands when I was born.” Red Velvet’s jaw dropped, “Shut. Up.” Rye Cookie whistled, “No wonder they were called the Ancient Heros,” she said with a laugh. “And he wasn’t even the oldest,” the prince said, joining in with the sheriff’s laughter. “Hollyberry was 20 years his senior. Actually, Auntie Hollyberry was the oldest of the Heroes. Though Father said she never acted like it. Hahahaha.” Pomegranate chuckled with her mouth behind her sleeve. She looked around at the beautiful white columns as they came to the end of the road. A giant, sleeping Brown Sugar Lion blocked off a large doorway carved into the side of a mountain. The Cookies hesitated when they saw the sleeping wildcat, but Rye Cookie was undeterred. She walked right up to the sleeping lion.

Red Velvet and his friends looked at one another in disbelief. They knew Rye Cookie had a reputation for being fearless, but this was a whole new level of boldness. Chiffon whimpered, placing his tail between his legs as he hid behind Red Velvet. Rye Cookie patted the lion on the side of its head. “Leon,” she said firmly. The sleeping lion snorted in his sleep but slept on. “Leon!” she said a bit louder as she made a fist and hit the side of the wildcat’s head with it. The Brown Sugar Lion stirred in his sleep, lifting his head slightly before flopping it back down with a sigh. Red Velvet tilted his head in confusion. “I guess she knows him?” Pomegranate whispered to Licorice, to which Licorice shrugged in response. Rye Cookie groans and pulls her pistol out. Taking a step back, she fires a single shot which bounces off the Lion's hard sugar. The group gasped softly. “Relax, he's fine. Didn't even graze him.” Rye Cookie said as she spun her gun and placed it back in the holster.

The Brown Sugar Lion grunted as he opened his eyes and lifted his head. Blinking sleepily as he looked down at Rye, “Oh, hiya, sheriff!” He said, yawning as he reared back and sat on his haunches. “Morning, Leon. Busy, I see,” she replied with a hint of sarcasm in her tone. The lion shifted his eyes sheepishly and straightened himself. “Uh, I was just… Taking a quick break is all, sheriff. Guarding the Gate is a tiring job y’know,” he said, sticking his nose up in the air and flicking his tail once or twice. Rye Cookie chuckled and crossed her arms over her chest, “Uh huh, I know. By any chance, while you’ve been busy guarding the gate so diligently, have you seen any spicy, red-haired Cookie running through here?” Leon looked away uneasily. “Uh, I uh… Nope. Can’t say I have, of course if anyone did try to get through here I would have-!”

“Oh, how would you know!? You were sleeping on the job again!” Wheat Cake snapped. “I was not!” the Brown Sugar Lion roared, jumping to his feet, “I was just resting my eyes,” he said timidly with a sweatdrop trickling down the side of his face. “It gets exhausting keeping an eye out for bandits and waiting in the hot sun for Trial challengers all day y’know!” Rye slowly smiled, “Speaking of which,” she said, gesturing to Red Velvet Cookie and his friends, who were starting to relax upon seeing the casual exchange between the two. The Gatekeeping cat’s eyes widened and he gasped, “No way… Real challengers! You guys actually completed the first two trials?!” The Cookies had to hold back their laughter at the Lion’s excited tone. “Yup, my name is Red Velvet Cookie, and there are my friends-” he was cut off by Dark Choco Cookie stepping forward before he could begin introductions. “I am Prince Dark Choco Cookie of the Dark Cacao Kingdom, first-born son of the Hero of Resolution! My friends and I seek entrance to Hero’s Gate, so that we may uncover my father’s whereabouts!”

The Guardian of the Gate let out a soft snort, “Wow, you been practicing that speech?” he asked with a chuckle. “Only about a hundred times on the way here,” Pomegranate said, laughing behind her sleeve, which earned her a soft twack on the head from the prince. Dark Choco turned back to the lion with a stoic, serious expression, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword. “So then, whatever challenge comes next, we’re ready for it!” he exclaimed, brandishing his sword. The lion snorted again and tucked his front paws under his chest, “Put the shiny stick away, Lance-a-lot. The final trial doesn’t involve a fight.” Dark Choco lowered his sword with a perplexed expression. The rest of his friends whispered among themselves, they were so sure the last test would involve defeating the Guardian of the Gate in battle. “I don’t get it,” Red Velvet Cookie said, “If the trials are meant for the challengers to prove themselves as Heroes like the Ancients, don’t they need to prove they can fight?”

Leon smiled and flicked this tail, “A hero is not always a fighter, not all problems can be solved with weapons. A hero must know how to protect their loved ones, yes. But, they must also be able to solve problems without force or violence. A true hero must also be wise! Able to discover answers peacefully.” Dark Choco Cookie smiled as he put his sword back in his sheath, “Of course… Braving the desert was the test of strength, the final test is one of the mind!” Rye Cookie smiled and stood off to the side with Wheat Cake, “Yeah, hurry it up so we can get to Hero’s Gate, ‘ight? Chili Pepper Cookie could be in there snatching up treasures as we speak!” Red Velvet nodded, “So, what do we have to do?” he asked the Guardian. “For the final Trial, you must answer my three riddles. If you can answer all three successfully, you will have proven yourselves to be selfless, strong, and wise. True Heroes worthy of treading the ground upon which the Ancient Heroes once-”

“Get on with it, Leon!” Rye Cookie snapped impatiently. “Alright! Alright! Sheesh… Bossy,” Leon mumbled, before clearing his throat and turning back to the group of Cookies and their Cakes. “Are you ready to begin, challengers?” They nodded in response. “Heck yeah, Licorice Cookie is great at riddles!” Red Velvet Cookie said, smiling at the Dark Wizard. Licorice chuckled, “Ooh, I just dabble in them from time to time,” he said with a sheepish laugh. “Let us hope that is enough to get through this last trial,” Healer Cookie said. Dark Choco Cookie started racking his brain for memories of his childhood, he knew there was an entire shelf full of riddle books in the castle library. Not that he’d bothered to read many of them, he would usually be outside practicing his martial arts. Now he wished he hadn’t been ignoring Affogato when he’d pull one of these books off the shelf and bother him with asking questions from the book and laughing at some of the answers when they were younger. (Of course had it not been in the middle of training he wouldn’t have been so annoyed.) Now he could only hope some of those answers were buried deep in the back of his mind, or that his friends’ combined experience would be enough to pass this trial.

The Prince took a deep breath, he wasn’t going to get this far just to fail now. If there was something in there he could use to find his father, he had no choice but to succeed. “We’re ready to begin.” The Prince said with a firm nod. Leon sat down with his paws in front of him and closed his eyes. “First riddle, what can run but never walks, has a mouth but never talks, has a head but never weeps, has a bed but never sleeps?" Dark Choco Cookie gulped. Licorice Cookie tapped his chin, “Uhhh… I know I’ve heard this one before somewhere…” he mumbled. Red Velvet Cookie whistles, “Runs but never walks? I mean, we’re great at running but can you imagine only being able to run?” Chiffon barked in agreement. “It must be something quiet, like a mouse, if it has a mouth but doesn’t talk,” Schwarzwälder reasoned. “But it also has a bed but never sleeps, and mice sleep, don’t they?” Pomegranate asked. “Yeah, why wouldn’t it sleep if it has a bed?” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked. “This is gonna be harder than I thought…” Dark Choco Cookie mumbled worriedly.

“A river!” Licorice Cookie suddenly exclaimed. “Huh?” Everyone else said in unison. “It’s a river! A river runs through a forest, the river’s head is where it begins, the mouth is where it flows into the ocean, and its bed is the channel it flows through!” the Dark Wizard exclaimed. “Is that your final answer?” Leon asked solemnly. “It makes sense but are you absolutely certain, Licorice?” Dark Choco Cookie asked, kneeling down to whisper in Licorice’s ear. The Dark Wizard nodded, “Yes,” he then turned to the Brown Sugar Lion, “The answer is river!” The lion closes his eyes, “That is…” he paused for dramatic effect before smiling and flicking his tail, “Correct!” The group let out a sigh of relief as Licorice beams proudly. “Nice work, Licy!” Poison Mushroom Cookie cheered. “That’s my Meowster!” Bat-Cat purred.

“Next riddle! If a hot air balloon carrying 14 passengers crashes in between two kingdoms, where do you bury the survivors?” Leon exclaimed. “Um… If you’re in between two different kingdoms…” Red Velvet mumbled. “Wouldn’t you send them home to be buried with their family?” Pomegranate reasoned. “Guys! You don’t bury the survivors, they’re survivors!” Dark Choco Cookie said with a laugh. There was a beat of silence before the rest of the group let out a collective “Ohhhhh.” Licorice laughed, “Good catch, Dark Choco. Logic. Hehe, I shoulda known that one,” he said sheepishly. “That is… Correct!” Leon exclaimed. Rye Cookie whooped, “Y’all are on fire!” Wheat Cake nodded, “One left to go, let’s hope they don’t screw this up.” The group turns back to the Gate Guardian as the Lion smiles. “Final riddle! How much wood could a woodchuck chuck, if a woodchuck could chuck wood?”

“Huh?!” everyone says in unison. “That’s not a riddle, that’s a tongue twister,” Red Velvet said flatly. Poison Mushroom Cookie cleared this throat. “Is there even an answer to that!?” Licorice Cookie said, with a slight bit of panic in his voice. “Guys,” Poison Mushroom Cookie said. “Is this one of those things where it’s a trick question is the answer?” Pomegranate wondered aloud. “Guys!” Poison Mushroom Cookie says, tugging on Red Velvet’s cape. “I can’t believe we're going to lose this thing to a nursery rhyme…” Dark Choco lamented. “GUYS!” Poison Mushroom Cookie shouted. Everyone turned to look at the little fungus-flavored Cookie as he put his hands behind his back, smiled and said, “A woodchuck could chuck as much wood as a woodchuck could chuck wood!”

“Correct!”

There was a full minute of silence while everyone stood, mouth-agape and wide-eyed at the little Cookie who was grinning proudly. “H… H-how did you know that?” Licorice Cookie exclaimed in disbelief. “Onion Cookie taught me that rhyme when we were playing jump rope!” Poison Mushroom Cookie said, throwing his arms up excitedly. Schwarzwälder laughed heartily, “You really are full of surprises aren’t you, Shroomy?” the Werehound said, crossing his arms over his chest. “Good job, little buddy,” Licorice Cookie said, giving the smaller Cookie an approving pat on the head. “So… Does this mean?” Dark Choco Cookie said, looking up at the Brown Sugar Lion as he stood. “Yes, this means you have officially passed the Heroes Gate’s Trials!” The group cheered, Red Velvet and Licorice high-fived, and Rye and Wheat Cake rejoined them. “Congratulations,” Wheat Cake said flatly. “Y’all are the first to ever finish the Trials! I knew there was something special about you kids,” Rye Cookie said with a grin.

Dark Choco blinks as Leon steps aside. The entrance to Hero’s Gate was wide open, beckoning them forward. “I can’t believe it…” The prince breathed. “Do you need a minute?” Pomegranate Cookie asked quietly. “Are you kidding!? I’ve been waiting for this moment my entire life!” Without warning Dark Choco Cookie dashes into the tunnel shouting, “Cookies onward!” Rye Cookie laughed and ran after him, whooping and brandishing her pistols. “Yeehaw! Let’s go catch us a thief!” Wheat Cake sighed and filed in with the rest of the group who were excitedly talking as they entered the gate. Leon smiles as Poison Mushroom Cookie waves goodbye and watches them disappear down the path.

The Brown Sugar Lion was about to return to his spot in front of the gate when he heard footsteps. He turned and smiled at the approaching Cookies. “Oh, hello there. Are you challengers as we- AUGH!” That’s as far as he got before a bolt of magical lightning coursed through his body. He collapsed to the ground and moaned in pain, unable to do anything but watch their feet pass by as the two chuckled cruelly.

“Wow! Look at all those cool curtains!”

Licorice Cookie snorted in an attempt to suppress a laugh, “Those aren’t curtains, Red Velvet Cookie. Those are tapestries.” Poison Mushroom looked up at the Dark Wizard, “What’s a tappa tree?” Dark Choco chuckled, “Tapestry, Shroomy. They’re decorations that tell stories, look here! This one shows a young Pure Vanilla Cookie on his pilgrimage to build his kingdom,” the prince said, stopping and pointing at a tapestry on the wall that depicted a cloudy mountainscape with a vanilla Cookie surrounded by sheep overlooking a mountain-covered land. “Hey, Dark Choco, isn’t this one of your dad?” Red Velvet asked, pointing at one that showed a warrior in a snowy landscape, pointing his sword up at two dragons who were intertwined in battle. “Ah, yes, that’s the day he split apart the Black and White Dragons and restored peace to the-”

“Yeah, yeah, yeah, that’s great, Choco. Reminisce later, keep your eyes peeled!” Rye Cookie said, bending down and smelling the ground. “Uh, Rye Cookie, what are you doing?” Poison Mushroom Cookie asked. “Trying to pick up that darn Cookie’s scent! The trail’s gone cold…” She huffed. “It doesn’t make any sense. Chili Pepper would never pass up treasure, I know she’s been this way!” She stood up and dug into her pocket, taking out a wrinkled seed. The color and scent had faded, but there was just enough to rekindle the righteous anger in her heart. It took all her self-control not to crush it in her fist.

Chiffon noticed her shaking and trotted up to her. The pupcake started rubbing up against her leg and wagging his tail. She was broken out of her daze and she looked down at the little Cake. Chiffon let out a small yap and the sheriff smiled. She knelt down to scratch the pupcake’s ears and sighed. “I’m just so sick of her always getting away.” Red Velvet placed a hand on her shoulder reassuringly. “Hey, don’t worry, Rye Cookie. As long as you don’t give up there’s always hope!” Rye Cookie stood up and readjusted her hat with a smile, “Ha! I don’t know the meaning of give up!” Wheat Cake snorted, “I can vouch for that.” Rye Cookie turned to continue down the path, “I hope we’re not too late. She’s pretty fast and if she has that wizard friend of hers with her who knows how much they could have gotten away with before-”

“Hey, what’s that?” Wheat Cake said, pointing ahead of them. The group looked up to see 3 Cookies in hooded robes, throwing sharp stones and broken glass along the path. One was tying sharpened sticks together and placing them down on the path in what looked like a makeshift barricade. (A very small and pathetic one but an obstacle nonetheless.) “What is happening?” Healer Cookie asked, noticing the sudden shift in the atmosphere. “There's some Cookies up ahead, it looks like they’re trying to block off the path… Poorly,” Pomegranate Cookie replied. “Aren’t those the same Cookies who sabotaged the bridge?” Wheat Cake remarked. “And tried to crush us back in the canyon!” Red Velvet growled. “HEY!” Rye Cookie shouted, pulling out her gun and rushing up to the trio of hooded Cookies. They jumped to their feet and started waving the sticks and stones in their arms.

“Ya! None shall pass! None may enter Hero’s Gate!” shouted the Cookie who seemed to be the leader of the trio, his voice muffled by a layer of fabric covering the lower half of his face. Rye Cookie pointed her pistol at the Cookies and they froze up a bit. “Listen you crooks! I ain’t in the mood for games! You’ve been trying to sabotage the trials and now you’re getting in our way! So you have 3 seconds to put yer hands up and drop the sticks or I’m gonna revoke yer kneecap privileges!” She shouted, pointing her gun lower. “Um, Rye, they’re wearing cloaks, you can’t see their legs,” Red Velvet Cookie whispered. The sheriff chuckled, “C’mon Red, you know I never miss.”

The other two shrunk back but the leader stood his ground. “No one enters Hero’s Gate,” he said firmly, slowly accenting each word. Rye Cookie raised an eyebrow, there was something familiar about that Cookie’s voice, but it was hard to tell with it being muffled. Dark Choco Cookie stepped forward, brandishing his sword, “We have already passed the three trials. Unless you want to face us in battle I suggest you step aside!” He said sharply, glaring at the Cookies as the gem on his sword began to glow in an eerie light. Now even the leader shrunk back a bit. Red Velvet watched the prince with an apprehensive expression, the crimson sparks around his sword and the dangerous look in his eye was a little scary.

Before anyone could make another move, one of the hooded Cookies looked up, gasped, and reached for the leader, “Elder! Look out!” That was the only warning before a burst of blue lightning appeared out of nowhere and sent the trio of Cookies flying and knocking Red Velvet and his friends back. Schwarzwälder shielded Licorice and Poison Mushroom in case of another blast. Chiffon was picked up and thrown by the blast, letting out a frightened yelp. “Chiffon!” Red Velvet shouted, regaining his balance after being almost knocked off his feet and diving for his Cake. He hit the ground and slid a foot or two but luckily managed to catch the pupcake. Healer Cookie wasn’t as lucky and landed on his back, he pulled himself onto his hands and knees and began groping around until he found his staff and used it to get back to his feet. Dark Choco was knocked back but quickly placed his hand to the ground and dug in to slow himself and keep from falling over.

Upon regaining their bearings, the group looked up to see a smoking crater of ash and the trio of Cookies blown back, strewn around the ground, groaning in pain. The makeshift barrier had been demolished, leaving only a few small twigs and glass shards. Red Velvet panted as he tried to catch his breath, he was about to speak the question that was on everyone's mind, what happened? But before he could speak, a familiar voice spoke behind them.

“Welp, that was annoying. Now, that we’ve got that out of the way…”

The group gasped softly as they turned around. Rye Cookie saw red. She gritted her teeth and quick as a flash she pulled her pistol from her belt. “Chili Pepper Cookie!” The thief groaned, “You again?” She snapped, crossing her arms over her chest. Wizard Cookie stood next to her, his Candy Wand still sparking with magic. Red Velvet and his friends readied their weapons. “It’s about time you cowards showed your faces!” Dark Choco Cookie snapped, “You’ve been causing trouble for us the entire trial!” Chili Pepper held up a hand, “Ah, ah, ah, let me stop you right there, Pretty Boy. Wiz and I haven’t been causing any trouble for any of you, this time,” she said with a smirk. “What are you talking about?” Rye Cookie growled, “You let the Ginkgoblins loose from the jail! And don’t try to deny it! You may not have been working directly with Ginkster but I know you were in their town! I found one of your seeds in the village!” Rye Cookie pulled the seed out of her pocket and waved it like it was court evidence.

Chili Pepper scoffed, “Yeah, we were in the village. Who do you think cut you loose when Ginkster had you tied down?” Rye’s eyes widened, she looked over to Dark Choco Cookie, the look on his face made it clear he was thinking the same thing she was. “Aaand, who do you think it was that knocked him off course with their magic? Me, duh!” Wizard Cookie quipped. “What…? But, why?” Red Velvet Cookie breathed. “Uh, because we’ve been following you, dumdum. Have been since you left Pilgrim’s Village,” Chili Pepper said with a scoff. Wizard Cookie grinned behind his scarf, “Yup, you all blazed the trail for us and we just followed along. Much faster than wandering through the desert trying to find our way to Hero’s Gate.” Rye Cookie seethed, “You little-”

“That’s right, sheriff! You led me and Wizard Cookie right where we wanted to go! You were just so busy running after me that you didn’t bother to look back. Ha! Guess working for those soft doughed Cookies back at Pilgrim’s Path has made you rusty, huh?” Chili Pepper jeered. Rye Cookie grit her teeth so hard they were about to crack. Unable to control herself any more she fired several rounds at the spicy Cookie, but she didn’t even flinch. Wizard Cookie quickly put up a magic bubble around them. The bullets bounced off the shield as Chili Pepper continued to stand and grin. Rye Cookie pants, her hands shaking as she glared at her nemesis. She couldn’t think straight, all she wanted to do at that moment was wrap her hands around her neck and strangle her until that smug grin disappeared. She felt a soft hand on her shoulder and turned to see Red Velvet giving her an understanding yet worried expression. “Rye Cookie, I know you’re angry but you have to stay in control. She’s just trying to get under your skin.” Rye Cookie forced herself to breathe, glaring at Chili Pepper as the shield went down.

The leader of the hooded Cookies slowly lifts his head from the ground, “Those Cookies… They’re… They’re the Blind King’s minions!” Wizard Cookie chuckled, “That’s right! The Cookies of Night! That’s us! And there’s something in there that’s bound to summon our King back from his banishment! So, if you don’t want to get hurt I’d suggest you move out of the way!” Red Velvet Cookie dug in his heels, “In case you’ve forgotten, we’ve beat you guys before! You don’t have Cremlins or a Dragon on your side now, so what makes you think you can win?” Dark Choco Cookie added, “We won’t let you step foot in the Heros’ sacred halls! Those treasures belong to the Ancients! Not your King!”

Wizard Cookie raised his wand, “Yeah, yeah, we know. That’s why we’re not gonna force our way through. You’re gonna lead the way, just like you did before, once you’ve tasted Master’s Blessing that is.” He slammed his Wand to the ground, and three bright blue portals of lightning appeared. The group had to shield their eyes from the brightness of the flash as a Cookie stepped out of each of the portals. As the light died down, Dark Choco Cookie looked on in horror when he saw the Cookies. Each one had glowing bandages wrapped around their eyes, they all had a blank, wide smile on their faces. Red Velvet stepped back in fear. “D-Dark Choco, a-are those Cookies…?”

“Cursed…” The prince said gravely with a nod. He looked over the trio of Cursed Cookies. They all wore tattered and dirty clothes, their hair was disheveled, and the smiles on their faces unnatural. The first wore what looked to be a summer outfit and her long red hair tied back in a ponytail. The vibrant reds and yellows of her blues and greens of her skirt long faded and her yellow tank top full of holes. She was barefoot and sunburned in a few places. The second had pale green dough and light yellow hair with baggy green clothes, just as tattered and wrinkled as the first. Her body was covered in spikes, almost like a cactus, some were even poking through her clothes and hair. But the last one, Wheat Cake recognized. “Sweet Mint Cookie,” he said softly. Rye Cookie blinked, she looked to her deputy, who was watching the Cookie with leafy-green hair and a mint blue dress. He was shaking, the Cookie giggled, and Rye sighed. “No way.”

“Wait, is that… Is that your old Cookie, Wheat Cake?” Schwarzwälder asked. Wheat Cake nodded mutely, trembling like a leaf. “Oh, so you know each other huh? Oof, that’s gonna be rough for you. Especially when they start to ATTACK!” Wizard Cookie shouted, pointing his Wand at the group of Cookies. The Cursed Cookies leapt forward. The red-haired one cupped her hands to her mouth and let out a stream of ice breath that froze the ground beneath the Cookies’ feet. Licorice and Poison Mushroom began to slip on the ice, flailing their arms trying to keep their balance. “Woah! Wooooaah!” They both crashed into each other and ended up in a heap on the ground.

The spiny Cookie launched herself at Pomegranate Cookie, arms spread wide as if going in for a hug while giggling madly. Pomegranate quickly put up a shield around her and the Cookie bounced off it and fell on her back, still laughing wildly. Healer Cookie felt the ice at his feet and lifted his staff, light magic swirled around, melting the ice as he pointed his staff down. He followed the sounds of Licorice’s and Poison Mushroom’s cries, the ice melting around him, clearing a path. “Are you two alright?” he asked, holding his hand out. “Yeah, I think so.” Licorice Cookie groaned as Poison Mushroom took Healer’s hand and climbed off Licorice.

Healer Cookie felt the air drop in temperature again and heard the manic giggles of the cursed red-head. “I’ll keep her busy, you two, help the others!” Healer Cookie said, rushing in the direction of the ice-wielding Cookie, his staff glowing bright in front of him, using the heat of the light to counter her ice blasts.

During the confusion, Wizard Cookie and Chili Pepper took the opportunity to rush past. Rye Cookie quickly drew her gun, but with each pull of the trigger the only thing she got was the sound of hollow clicks. “Dagnabbit!” she hissed, opening the chamber to find it empty. She looked up to see Wizard and Chili Pepper being stopped by the leader of the hooded Cookies. He was shakily holding his arms out to his side but standing firm in their path. “Guess he’s on our side now,” he murmured as she dug in the pockets of her poncho for her bullets.

“Rye Cookie! Look out!”

The shout gave her just enough time to duck out of the way of Sweet Mint Cookie diving for her. The Cursed Cookie stumbled, almost dropping the glowing bandages in her hand, giggling all the while. Rye Cookie gritted her teeth and carefully put her gun back in its holster. Guess I’ll have to do this the old fashioned way, she thought, holding up her fist and planting her foot in preparation for the next dive.

“I’m warning you, if you don’t get out of our way!” Wizard Cookie hissed, holding out his sparking Candy Wand. “Hey!” Red Velvet shouted as he and Dark Choco readied their weapons and took battle stances, “You two must still not be tired of getting your butts kicked over and over huh?” Red Velvet chided. Chiffon yipped in agreement as he took his place at his Cookie’s side. Chili Pepper and Wizard turned around to face the two swordsmen. “Pfft, and you must have been top of your class at the school of being a pest!” Wizard Cookie snapped, blasting a Lightning Strike towards the two which they had to dodge. “Nice comeback, Pointy Hat!” Chili Pepper said with an approving, toothy grin. “Thanks,” he replied, glancing over to her for half a second before holding up his wand to block a strike from Red Velvet.

“You just don’t know when to quit, do you?” Wizard Cookie snapped as he dug his heel into the dirt, Red Velvet had gotten a lot stronger since their last fight. “Funny, I was about to say the same thing about you,” Red Velvet quipped, jumping out of the way just as Wizard Cookie swung his staff, crackling and sparking with blue lightning. He rolled and drew his sword, allowing his instincts to guide him whenever he felt the air charge with magical energy. He scooped up Chiffon in his free hand as he dived and placed him on his shoulder. “Hang on tight, buddy,” he said as he stood up and leapt forward while Wizard Cookie was taking a breath.

While Wizard’s limitless mana reserves meant he could cast spells back to back, that didn’t mean it didn’t cause a strain on his small body. Every dozen Lightning Strikes or so Red Velvet had a second-long window of opportunity to attack while Wizard stopped to take a breath. It was risky but Red Velvet could only hope he could land one good hit before Wizard had time to raise his staff again. Wizard Cookie looked up and placed his staff in front of him to block the swing. Sword and Wand met with a loud clash. He gritted his teeth as he was pushed back by the strength of the older Cookie. He gripped his staff tight and tried to summon his magic but then he made one fatal mistake.

He looked Red Velvet in the eye.

There was something about the Cake eye, black as the abyss with only a single slit of blue that seemed to glow with an animalistic intensity. And being so close to it now, he could feel Red Velvet’s hot breath on his face as his teeth bared, the sound he made was not the grunt of effort of a Cookie but the growl of a hungry Cake Wolf. Wizard’s eyes were drawn to the sharp incisor and the trail of saliva that connected both rows of teeth as Red Velvet bit down into the wood of his staff, which began to crack and splinter.

Wizard’s arms began to shake from the effort of trying to hold him back. His breath came in quick gasps and his heart began to race. He felt frozen to the spot as he stared into that inky, dark eye. He felt in that moment that Red Velvet was somehow gazing into his soul and that if he kept looking long enough he would fall deep into that abyss, never to return. With an adrenaline fueled cry he pushed Red Velvet off his staff, the Candy Drop crackling with magic.

Red Velvet returned to jumping to avoid his attacks but he noticed they were much more erratic and hesitant than before. Whereas before the strikes would follow Red Velvet in an almost perfect line, leaving a trail behind him. Now they were striking in areas he had been. He looked up in disbelief to see Wizard had shut his eyes, and was now throwing spells randomly. Or, maybe not randomly, but… Red Velvet slowly came to a stop and held his finger to his mouth to tell Chiffon to stay quiet. He watched as Wizard, with his eyes still shut, lowered his staff and threw his head around.

>i>He can’t see us with his eyes shut, so he’s trying to listen for where to strike. Red Velvet didn’t know why Wizard had chosen to do such a thing in the middle of a fight, but it did give him an opportunity. He smiled at Chiffon, who wagged his tail and lowered his ears in preparation for their next move. Red Velvet knew the sand shifting beneath him would give away his position with every step, but there was one thing he could do. He carefully picked Chiffon up off his shoulder, nodded to the Pupcake, and tossed him.

Chiffon landed a headbutt square in Wizard Cookie’s chest, knocking him back and dazing him. By the time Wizard Cookie had opened his eyes, Chiffon had yanked his Candy Wand out of his hands and was running away with it, barking victoriously. “Hey! Get back here with that, you mangy mutt!” Wizard shouted, giving chase to the surprisingly fast Cake Hound. “Atta boy, Chiffon!” Red Velvet cheered, running to get in between Wizard Cookie and Chiffon and hopefully hold him off long enough for his friends to take down the cursed Cookies.

Dark Choco and Chili Pepper were currently at an impasse. Chili Pepper was too fast for Dark Choco to properly land a hit, but Chili Pepper couldn’t get close enough to strike without risking one of Dark Choco’s crimson lightning attacks. So Chili Pepper weaved in and out, jumping back from the magical lightning bolts and sprinting forward at the first sight of an opening. But the warrior would quickly spot her and parry her dagger slashes. She looked over to see Wizard trying to avoid getting clawed by Red Velvet and retrieve his staff from Chiffon at the same time. She could go help him but that would mean letting up on Dark Choco and risk him joining forces with Red Velvet. No, it was safer to keep them both occupied while their Cursed Cookies picked off the rest of their group one by one. Soon enough they’d have numbers on their side, she just had to keep the prince busy long enough for the Cursed Cookies to get the bandages in place.

Meanwhile, the red-haired Cursed Cookie cupped her hands together and blew frost breath into them, creating a ball of glowing frost magic in her hands. “Snowball fight!” She cheered, and tossed the magic ball while giggling like a child at play. It landed near Licorice Cookie’s feet and sharp spikes of ice grew several feet from its target, some climbing up onto Licorice’s robes and trapping him in place with a thick sheet of magic ice. He let out a startled yell and tried to pull himself free but the ice held fast. The red-haired Cookie lunged forward, cursed bandages in hand, but just before she could reach Licorice Cookie, Pomegranate jumped in front of him and held out her mirror.

She created a magic shield between them, the Cursed Cookie slammed into the barrier, falling on her back, and laughing. Pomegranate panted, sweat dripping down her forehead as she spun to put up another shield behind them as the spiky Cursed Cookie threw herself towards them, arms open wide and cursed bandages in hand. Licorice continued to struggle and tug on his robes in an attempt to free himself from the ice but it wasn’t budging. He summoned his scythe and tried to hack away at the ice with it but Pomegranate stopped him.

“Licorice, don't! You could cut your leg off if you're not careful!”

Poison Mushroom clung to Licorice’s sleeve as he watched the Spiky Cookie create a Cactus ball in her hands and throw it at the shield, “Catch!” She cheered, laughing as the spiky ball exploded on the shield, cracking the magic barrier and scattering cactus thorns on the ground. From the other side the red-haired Cookie was pummeling magic snowballs onto the shield, freezing it and also weakening the walls. “My shield isn't going to hold against their attacks long enough for the spell to cooldown! We need to get you out of this before they break it!” Pomegranate shouted over the sound of the two Cookies’ laughter. “Maybe Choco Werehound Brute could SMASH 'em free!” Schwarzwälder said, waving his hammer. “No! No! No! No! If my scythe was too dangerous that hammer of yours definitely won't work. I'd like to keep my leg intact thank you very much,” Licorice replied, still tugging on his frozen leg. “Well, we better think of something quick!” Bat-Cat exclaimed, his ears pressed flat against his head as he watched more and more cracks appear in the weakening shield.

Healer Cookie slowly approached the Red Haired Cookie from behind, his staff glowing faintly in his hand. “Come now, child. They already have a playmate, why don’t you come play with me instead?” He said, one hand on his staff, and the other he held out in a way he hoped looked warm and not suspicious. The Cookie not only stopped her freeze breath attacks, but as she turned to him, she shouted excitedly, “My King!” before running to him and embracing him in a hug. Healer Cookie flinched, staff at the ready if the Cookie tried to curse him, but to his surprise, she didn’t. She seemed to melt into him like a Cookie greeting an old friend.

He could use this to his advantage.

He gently took her hand and began to lead her away from Licorice and the others. “Yes, that’s right, come with me,” his voice taking a soothing tone. He was surprised how obedient she was, but he was even more surprised how… Familiar this felt. Like he’d done this before. But he had no such memory, not that he had many memories at all, but there was just something unsettling about how familiar she was with him. Once he had her a safe distance away he gently sat her down on the ground, she giggled softly, but made no move to resist him. Almost as if she trusted him. Almost as if she knew him. Healer Cookie pushed aside the uneasy feeling settling in his stomach and waved his wand. “Hold still,” he said, his mouth turning up into a… Odd smirk. She did, even though they both were blind he could feel her looking up at him, if her eyes weren’t hidden behind the glowing bandages he felt they would have been staring at him with an intense gaze.

The light around his staff condensed into ribbons and strings which wrapped around the cursed Cookie and pinned her arms to her sides. She started to struggle but Healer Cookie gently placed a hand on her head and she stopped, “Shhhhh, quiet,” he said softly, like a father soothing his child. Her smile stretched across her face, “Yes, my king,” she replied mindlessly. He didn’t know why she was calling him that, he didn’t know why it felt so familiar, so… Right. But he forced himself to pull his hand away from her head. “Now, you be a good girl and wait right here, I’ll bring the others over to play with us soon,” he said, slowly backing away from her as she giggled excitedly. He let out a sigh of relief once he was sure she couldn’t (or wouldn't try to) escape. “One down, two to go,” He said, turning back to Licorice, Pomegranate and Poison Mushroom.

Meanwhile, inside the slowly weakening magic bubble, Poison Mushroom Cookie was planting a few of his Shroomies at Licorice Cookie’s frozen foot. The group backed up as much as they could when Poison Mushroom shouted, “Fire in the hole!” And the shield filled with a purple haze. The force of the blast broke the magic bubble from the inside and spread the cloud of spores. The Spiky Cursed Cookie made the mistake of breathing in the purple mist and the spores quickly took effect. By the time the spore smoke had cleared, Licorice Cookie was free and the cursed Cookie was tottering and muttering in a daze. Licorice and Pomegranate looked at one another and then back to the stumbling Cookie. Licorice smirked, “I have an idea! Poison Mushroom Cookie, you distract her and keep her dizzy! Schwarzwälder, get ready!” So while Poison Mushroom danced around the spiky Cookie, Shroomies at the ready, Licorice got to work on a magic circle. “I hope this works, I'll have to use the last of my Mana for this.”

“La la la la la~ Can’t catch me!” Poison Mushroom Cookie cheered as the confused Cookie tried in vain to grab him over and over. Not only was she blind, she was now so disoriented that she couldn’t tell where his voice was coming from. And why did she smell butterflies? She didn’t even register Licorice shouting, “Poison Mushroom Cookie, now!” But she did feel the smaller Cookie tug on her tattered clothing and cheer, “Tag! You’re it!” and dash off, giggling. The sound of his playful laughter was too much to resist and she smiled widely as she ran after him. Her mind had cleared just enough for her to tell which way to follow him and she was overjoyed at the prospect of playing with her new friend. Poison Mushroom Cookie jumped over the magic circle, Schwarzwälder catching him and pulling him out of the way just as the Cursed Cookie ran into the circle, which activated the spell.

Ribbons of shadow erupted from the glowing circle and wove into a net, which closed around the Cursed Cookie and lifted her into the air. She squealed and thrashed trying to get herself free but anywhere her spikes managed to damage the net would quickly repair itself. Licorice and the crew backed up a bit and held their breath, watching for a moment to see if the magical net would indeed hold the struggling Cookie. Despite her flailing the magical trap held up, and the rest breathed a sigh of relief. “Good work, Licorice Cookie!” Pomegranate Cookie cheered as Licorice collapsed onto the ground in a sitting position with his scythe in his lap, panting and sweating a bit as he smiled in response.

Rye Cookie was having equal luck, as she had been able to dodge her opponent until the Cursed Cookie dived at her and the sheriff managed to grab their wrists and flip her onto her back. While the Cursed Cookie lay on the ground, dazed, and the Cursed Bandages knocked out of her hands, Rye Cookie quickly reloaded her pistol. By the time Sweet Mint Cookie had caught her breath and was feeling the ground in search of the dropped bandages. Rye held her pistol out, ready to strike as soon as she got back to her feet. Just below the knee to incapacitate ‘em, that should put her down for the count and- “AUGHH!" Rye Cookie cried in pain as her pistol was suddenly knocked from her hand. She held her wrist and hissed through gritted teeth as she saw Wheat Cake helping the Cursed Cookie to her feet. “Easy, Sweet Mint Cookie, I've got you,” he said gently. “Wheat Cake~”

“Yeah… Yeah it's me, Minty. It's gonna be ok.” Rye Cookie glanced at her fallen pistol a few feet away as her deputy caught his boomerang. “Wheat Cake,” she said firmly, “don't do this…” He turned to her with a weary look, then back up at the Cursed Cookie who was playing with his hat, and then back at the sheriff with a sorrowful, but determined expression, “I’m sorry, Sheriff.” Before Rye Cookie could react, Wheat had thrown his boomerang again. She jumped out of the way, but didn’t realize it wasn’t her he was aiming for, but the tapestry above her, which was knocked off its rod and fell on top of her. By the time Rye Cookie had pulled herself out of the layers of thick fabric, Wheat Cake was already running off, dragging Sweet Mint Cookie by the hand. “Wheat Cake!” Rye shouted, quickly grabbing her gun and giving chase, “Get back here, or you’re gonna regret it!”

Meanwhile, with 2 Cursed Cookies captured and one on the run, that left Wizard Cookie and Chili Pepper to fend off Red Velvet and Dark Choco on their own. They weren’t doing too well. Chili wasn’t gaining an inch of ground and Wizard was basically in a tug of war with Red Velvet and Chiffon with his Candy Wand. “Give. It. BACK!” Wizard Cookie groaned as he gripped his staff with both hands and tried to avoid eye contact with Red Velvet. If he could just keep his hold long enough to get some mana flowing into it he could blast the Cake-Cookie back but his hands kept slipping as Red Velvet yanked back. Red Velvet didn’t even have both hands on the wand. He was holding onto the head of the wand with just his Cake claw, in his Cookie hand he held his sword on his hip while smiling smugly at the struggling Wizard. Red Velvet finally gave a strong pull and yanked the wand out of Wizard Cookie’s hands. Causing the smaller Cookie to lose his balance and fall onto his face. Red Velvet tossed the Candy Wand into the air and, with a swing of his sword, split it in twain. Wizard Cookie let out a cry of anguish as splinters fell at the Cake-Cookie hybrid’s feet as the two halves of his Wand fell to the ground.

Red Velvet pointed his sword at Wizard Cookie, “Give up?” he said with a smirk. Wizard Cookie nervously glanced around, “Uh, yeah um… About that, uh… Oh look, is that the Witch?!” Wizard said, pointing behind Red Velvet Cookie. “What?! Where!?” Red Velvet Cookie exclaimed in fright as he and Chiffon turned around. The distraction gave Wizard Cookie just enough time to scramble to his feet and escape. Red Velvet blinked and turned back, groaned loudly, and facepalmed, “Chiffon, please tell me I didn't just fall for that…” To which the pupcake responded with a soft whine. “No, Chiffon, knowing you fell for it too does NOT make me feel better!”

Wizard Cookie meanwhile, ran past Dark Choco Cookie, screaming like his hat was on fire and failing his arms about. The Prince paused and raised an eyebrow at the sight but from Red Velvet giving chase he figured his apprentice had it under control. Besides, Chili Pepper had disappeared a minute ago and he was having trouble tracking her movements. That was because she was hiding behind a marble pillar. By now she had learned Dark Choco was able to use shadows to track her movements, so as long as she hid her shadow in a larger one it would be harder for him to sense her. She swiftly removed the belts wrapped around her legs and tied them together. She carefully peeked out from behind the pillar to ensure Dark Choco still had his back to her before throwing the belt around the pillar and holding tight to both ends. She took her dagger out of her pocket and held it between her teeth. By leaning back and using the leverage of the belts holding her in place, she was able to climb up the smooth column until she was just above the prince.

Luckily, before she could jump down and strike, one of the hooded Cookies who had finally gotten to their feet saw her and gasped, “Your Highness! Behind you!” The shout gave Dark Choco just enough time to realize she had jumped, and just a second before she could strike he drew his sword. Dagger met sword, the sound of metal clashing reverberated throughout the chamber. Dark Choco’s eye flashed a crimson glow as he swung, his sword coated in dark magic as Chili Pepper was thrown back against the pillar. Leaving a crack in the marble and knocking the breath from her lungs as she dropped to her knees, head bowed, panting as she tried to catch her breath with electricity still coursing through her body. Slowly, shakily, she lifted her head, only to see after images of everything shifting back and forth through her vision.

Dark Choco remained in a battle stance, as he could see from the look in her eyes Chili Pepper wasn’t ready to surrender just then. “This fight was over before it begun, admit defeat!” the prince shouted. Chili Pepper breathed through gritted teeth as the last of the crimson energy faded from her dough. Inhaling sharply through her nose she replied, “My King would never admit defeat…” She pushed herself into a kneeling position, “My King would never falter…” She planted her dagger into the ground and placed a hand on her knee, “My king… Would never surrender!” She shakily stood, swaying as she lifted her head, trying to fight past the double vision as she rushed to tackle Dark Choco, “And neither will I!” Unfortunately for her, her injuries left her movement slowed quite a bit, so Dark Choco didn't even have to lift his sword. This time, once she was close enough, he kicked his knee hard into her stomach, which sent her to the ground in a crumpled heap. She held her stomach and groaned in agony, a thin trail of saliva leaking from the corner of her mouth as she tried to fight through blurred and darkening vision to see Dark Choco’s foot on her chest and his sword pointed at her face.

“Your devotion is admirable, but sadly misguided,” he remarked, staring down at her. Chili Pepper didn't even have the strength to respond besides a weak groan. He looked up to see the one Cursed Cookie still tied up with the light ropes, the other struggling in the shadow net, and Wizard being tied up by Red Velvet and Healer Cookie with similar ropes while the rest of their crew took a breather. But upon doing a second headcount, he realized someone was missing, “Hey, where are Rye Cookie and that last one? Weren’t there three Cursed Cookies?” Licorice Cookie shakily stood up, “I think I saw her running after them, they were heading back towards the entrance.” Dark Choco hummed softly, that was strange. In all his years of dealing with the Sonmum Aeternus Curse he had never known a Cookie afflicted with it to retreat. Unless…

“Wheat Cake! C’mon, you know you can’t run forever!” Rye Cookie shouted as she ran through the pristine white halls in search of her deputy. She sighed, her pistol swinging at her side. “She’s gone, Wheat. I’m sorry but whatever she is now it ain’t your old friend. Once the Blind King’s Curse has ahold of them there’s no going back.” She stopped, sighing. She’d seen plenty of families and friendships be torn apart from this curse. She’d never lost anyone close to her to it herself, but it’s hard to get close to anyone in her line of work. Although she was fond of the Cake who had been by her side since she took up watching over Pilgrim Village. But she also knew how a Cake’s loyalty worked. She’d seen the way Wheat Cake looked at travelers who came through town with their Cakes. The anger, the jealousy, the guilt… “I get it, she’s your Cookie, you wanna protect her now because you couldn’t then… But she’s not the Cookie you knew, Wheat Cake. She’s just another one of the Blind King’s drones now. She’s dangerous! Get her around another Cookie and she’s just gonna try to spread the curse!”

She peeks behind pillars and looks over ledges as she continues to hunt for the duo. “Yer gonna be on the run for the rest of yer life! Not just from the Blind King’s forces but from the rest of society! When we find Cookies like them we gotta lock 'em up so they can’t cause any more damage. I know it hurts, but she’s gone, Wheatster! You’ve gotta-” She paused, gasping softly as she rounded a corner. No sign of her deputy or the cursed Sweet Mint Cookie, but on the ground, slightly buried in the sand, was a golden star-shaped deputy badge. Rye Cookie knelt down and with a shaking hand picked it up. Holding the badge in both hands as she carefully brushed the sand off. “Wheatster…” She said, shaking her head.

“OW! Not so tiiight!” Wizard Cookie screeched as Healer Cookie finished the knot on the rope of light he had bound Wizard and Chili Pepper with. Healer gently bonked him over the head with his staff. “There is no need to shout, now, you two sit here and think about what you’ve done,” he said as he stood up and joined the rest of the crew. Wizard Cookie shrunk back, he didn’t know why, but there was something eerily familiar about that Cookie. “Is everyone safe?” Healer Cookie asked. “All good here!” Pomegranate cheered and Dark Choco nodded. “Is it getting easier to beat those guys, or is it just me?” Red Velvet remarked with a laugh. “I’m a little low on mana, but otherwise all good,” Licorice Cookie said, as he sat cross-legged on the ground while he scratched Bat-Cat behind the ears (he was laying in the Dark Wizard’s lap).

“What about… Them?” Healer Cookie asked, pointing to the two tied up Cursed Cookies. Licorice raised an eyebrow, “Uh, why? They’re our enemies.” Healer Cookie shook his head. “From what I understand they are not in control of their actions, and besides as a Healer, I have no enemies. Only patients,” he said walking up to the two Cookies. Pomegranate reached out a hand as if to stop him but Dark Choco gently placed a hand on her shoulder and nodded, as if to say “he knows what he’s doing”. Healer Cookie started with the red-haired Cookie, who was using her frost breath to create small clouds of frost above her head and giggling when the snowflakes fell into her hair. Healer Cookie smiled, there was something about the way that Cookie laughed, she was so happy and carefree. Free from pain or fear.

If only he could make her feel like that forever. If only he could protect her from the horrors of this world. If only he could ensure that smile would never fade. If only…

“Hey, uh, Healer Cookie, you good?” Licorice Cookie asked, startling the blind healer out of his thoughts by placing a hand on his shoulder. “You seem kinda spaced out.” Healer Cookie shook his head and smiled. “Yes, of course, everything’s fine.” He then knelt down and began to examine the Cursed Cookie. She giggled as his hands roamed over her face, searching for any injuries. It was a bit concerning how tattered and dirty her clothes were, and her figure was a bit too trim to be considered healthy. “Mmm… No visible injuries or ailments, but she’s possibly a bit malnourished, and her personal hygiene doesn’t seem to be in the best condition either.”

Dark Choco stepped forward, “That’s because the Curse makes them completely dependent on The Blind King. Once cursed a Cookie no longer has any form of self-preservation. Even if they grow hungry they will not seek out food. Even if they are too injured to battle they will keep on fighting. Because the curse prevents them from feeling pain or discomfort of any kind.” The Cursed Cookie laughed, “Indeed, and it’s a wonderful feeling. No more need for toil and tears, no more worries or problems or fears. Our King cares for us and all of our needs. For never ending dreams was his Blessing's creed.”

“Does the curse also make you speak in rhyme?” Licorice Cookie raised an eyebrow. The Cookie chuckled again, and then began swaying back and forth as she chanted, “Silence, quiet, rest in peace, close your eyes and sleep, sleep, sleep.” The spike-covered Cursed Cookie inside the net stopped struggling to join in the chant, “Quiet, silence, rest in peace, close your eyes and sleep, sleep, sleep.” Licorice Cookie took a step back, “Okahhhy, that’s creepy.” Red Velvet knelt down in front of the Red-haired Cursed Cookie and hummed softly. “And all this is because of those bandages over her eyes?” Dark Choco nodded, “Yes, those bandages carry the curse.” Red Velvet raised an eyebrow, “So… Why can’t we just take them off?” Dark Choco sighed, “Because it causes the afflicted individual immense pain, sometimes pain so intense their heart stops from it. I should know… Father and I lost a few good men from our warriors trying to get their old companions back that way.” Red Velvet shudders. “So… That’s how The Blind King made sure they stay his slaves once they're cursed.” Chiffon whimpered softly, tucking his tail between his legs.

The spike-covered Cookie began thrashing again, only this time she managed to snap some of the shadowy ropes. Licorice Cookie yelled in horror, “Yipe! The magic on that net is getting weak! Dang it I don’t have enough mana to repair it… Maybe..” Licorice ran up to the thrashing Cookie just as she got her head free and placed his hand on her forehead before creating a magic circle underneath them. It wasn’t as big or bright as the one to summon his net but as the soft glow washed over the Cookie she began to calm down. “Ohh, a calming spell, good thinking Licorice Cookie,” Pomegranate said. “Takes a lot less mana then a Shadowbolt, I used to use these to help get Bat-Cat to sleep when he was a baby.” The winged feline hissed softly in embarrassment, “Meowster!” Licorice chuckled, “What? It worked.”

“Where am I?”

The group all turned to the Cursed Cookie, who was now not only calm, but she had stopped giggling and… Dark Choco did a double take, was the glow of the bandages fading? Licorice Cookie stepped back in surprise. The Cookie had begun rubbing at the bandages on her face. “Wha– What is this? I-I can’t see…” The group slowly came closer to the Cookie. Meanwhile, Chili Pepper had been gnawing on light ropes in an attempt to free herself and Wizard Cookie. She stopped, “What’s happening?” she whispered to Wizard Cookie, who was now staring forward with a blank expression. Suddenly, a magic portal appeared next to them and a Cookie stepped out. Chili Pepper gulped when she saw who it was. “W-we can explain,” she whispered, glancing over her shoulder at Red Velvet and the others. “Don’t bother,” GingerGrave hissed, drawing his sword, the small colorful gems on the hilt glowing softly. He swung and in one swift motion, cut Chili Pepper and Wizard free.

He glanced at the group of Cookies who were still too focused on the Cursed Cookie who had suddenly regained awareness to notice them. He swiftly picked up Wizard’s broken wand and shoved the two into the portal, right as Chiffon perked his ears up and turned around. The pupcake began barking and ran after them, and nearly bit the end of GingerGrave’s cape as he disappeared through the portal. Red Velvet groaned loudly as he realized what had happened, “They got away again!” The Cursed Cookie stopped rubbing at her bandages for a moment, “Who did?” Dark Choco sighed and knelt down, “It’s not important, first things first, can you tell us your name?”

“I-I’m Cactus Cookie.”

“Cactus Cookie, ok, can you tell us what’s the last thing you remember?”

“Ummm, it’s all kinda fuzzy… But… Oh, right, h-he said he could help me, a-and he made me put these on,” she said, rubbing at the bandages as the glow on the symbols seemed to flicker as if trying to come back to life. But Licorice Cookie cast the spell again and the flicker died out. “He who?” Red Velvet asked as Chiffon came back to his side. “He… He called himself, Bitter Truth Cookie, he said he could make it so that I wouldn’t have to be afraid of hurting anyone anymore,” she said with a soft whimper. “Hurting anyone?” Dark Choco asked, raising an eyebrow. “My spikes,” she replied sadly, “They make it really hard to make friends, you know? No one wants to be around me if they risk getting pricked by my spikes…” Poison Mushroom frowned, “Awwww, that’s sad…”

“What I want to know is, how is the curse not affecting her anymore?” Dark Choco hummed. “It would seem Licorice Cookie’s Dark Magic is blocking it,” Healer Cookie said softly as he came over and gently caressed Cactus Cookie’s face. “Do you think it’s safe to try to remove them now?” Licorice asked. “I… I don’t know… I don’t think we should risk it-”

“AAHHHH! OW!” Cactus Cookie cried as she tried to tug one of the bandages off her face, she stopped, holding her head and breathing heavily. The Bandages grew damp, and a few tears managed to escape the bindings. Red Velvet reached out and held her shoulders to support her. “Hey! Easy, take it easy. It’s ok. We’ve got you.” Cactus Cookie shuddered, “It hurts… *sniff* it really hurts.” Healer Cookie gently ran his hand through her hair, “I think it’s best we don’t try to remove them, imagine living a life free of pain and fear for so long. If those bandages are the only thing preventing her from feeling that way, then removing them will cause all those feelings to come crashing into her at once. Like a dam breaking and the water behind it causing a flood.”

Pomegranate hummed softly, “But what if… We let the water out slowly, so it doesn’t flood?” she said, placing her hand to her chin in thought. “What?” Red Velvet asked, raising an eyebrow. “What if I use my Healing Magic to ease the pain while Licorice uses his Dark Magic to soothe the fear and we help Cactus Cookie remove her bandages without it hurting so much.” Red Velvet looked to Dark Choco, who shook his head, “I.. I don’t know. I mean, we did try using magic but we always believed that the bandages would simply fall off once the curse was broken.”

“Maybe the curse can only be broken if the Cookie affected fights to break it,” Red Velvet suggested. “Yeah, and I can’t just keep casting my soothing spell on Cactus Cookie forever and ever,” Licorice added. “I think it’s worth a try, what do you think, Cactus Cookie?” Pomegranate asked. “I… I don’t know, maybe I’m better off being alone I mean… It won’t change anything…” she said sadly. “Cactus Cookie,” Red Velvet Cookie said, taking her hands. “I know you feel different from everyone else, but that doesn’t mean you have to be alone. You just have to find the right Cookies who accept you for who you are-ow-hehe, pricks and all,” he said, pulling his Cake hand back and shaking it slightly from where he nicked it on one of her spikes. She hummed softly. “Red Velvet,” Healer Cookie said softly, his voice oddly strained, “If Cactus Cookie is happy the way she is-”

“But I’m not…” Cactus Cookie said softly, “He promised me I would be but… I dunno, I haven’t felt real happiness since I put these on,” she said, rubbing at her bandages, “I’ve just felt… Strange, floaty, like I’ve been walking in a dream I can’t wake up from.” Red Velvet took her hands again and squeezed them softly. “Well, it’s time to wake up now, Cactus Cookie, we’re willing to help you if you’re willing to try.” She lifted her head, her brow furrowed, and she nodded, “O-okay… I’ll… I’ll try!” Pomegranate and Licorice got into position to better cast their respective spells and Red Velvet held tight to one of Cactus Cookie’s hands. “I-I don’t think this is safe!” Healer Cookie exclaimed. “Hey, if you’re so worried, you can help them, you know?” Schwarzwälder remarked. Healer Cookie stuttered, but having no proper argument, relented and stood besides Pomegranate to help her with his Healing Magic. Light and shadow flew from each wizards' respective staff, twirling around Cactus Cookie as she took a deep breath, Red Velvet held her hand tight as she reached up to the bandages. The symbols' light slowly dying and turning a muted gray color as layer by layer they began to fall to the ground. Cactus Cookie breathed heavily as she felt an icy fear grip her heart, she gritted her teeth and using one of the spikes on her arm, ripped though the last layers. Everyone took a step back as Cactus Cookie steadied her breath. Slowly, she lifted her head, and opened her eyes. The others stood in quiet shock for a moment before Red Velvet stepped forward to help her to her feet. “How are you feeling?” He asked her. “Better,” she replied with a smile.

“How is this possible?” A voice said. The group turned to see the trio of hooded Cookies coming over. Their leader being supported by another as he walked with a limp. “Not even the five Ancient Heroes could destroy the curse… And yet, you all have found a way to undo Bitter Truth Cookie’s magic.” Licorice Cookie snorted, “Yeah, but that aside, why have you three been causing so much trouble for us? Who even are you guys?” The hooded Cookie supporting their leader spoke up, “We’re really sorry, we just couldn’t risk anyone successfully entering Hero’s Gate. If you really do want to bring the Ancient Heroes back, that comes with the risk of bringing The Blind King back as well.” The last Hooded Cookie stepped forward, “We were there when the destruction of the Vanilla Kingdom sealed them away. Whatever magic made the Heroes disappear, it also made The Blind King vanish. If the Heroes return, so will he! So it’s… It’s better if they all just stay gone.”

Red Velvet stepped forward. “But Bitter Truth Cookie’s minions are trying to revive him as we speak! What if they don’t all return at the same time? If The Blind King returns before the Heroes do he’ll have that much more time to do even more damage! But if the Heroes return before Bitter Truth Cookie, then they can help us to defend Earthbread from his evil plans!” Dark Choco nodded approvingly, “Well said, Red Velvet Cookie,” he whispered to the Cake-Cookie hybrid. “You don’t understand! You haven’t seen the destruction that vile Wizard is capable of! We were lucky to escape with our lives!” The leader of the Hooded Cookies exclaimed. Now it was Dark Choco’s turn to step forward, “Actually, I do. After my kingdom fell to Bitter Truth Cookie’s forces, I had to lead a mass exodus of the survivors. We had to rebuild the entire kingdom on the other side of the Great Icing Ridge. It took us two years to restore what took our ancestors hundreds. I lost many friends, many of my friends lost family… I… I lost my father in the Dark Flour War… So don’t lecture us about not understanding what we’re up against! I know from first hand experience! But I refuse to run and hide! As Prince of the Dark Cacao Kingdom, I will not rest until Bitter Truth Cookie has been vanquished or I crumble trying to defend what my Father held dear!" He shouted, planting his sword into the ground.

“So wait… You three have been messing with the Trials, going so far as to almost kill us with that rockslide back there-!” Licorice began to say before the leader cut them off, “It wasn’t meant to get that far, you were supposed to turn back at the bridge, but…” He sighed, “You Cookies were just too stubborn…” He said, finally removing his hood. The group collectively gasped as they realized, they recognized him. “Elder Waffle Cone Cookie?!” Red Velvet exclaimed in disbelief. “Gramps?” Rye Cookie breathed. The group looked to see the sheriff returning with a golden badge in her hands. “Oh, there you are, Rye Cookie!” Poison Mushroom Cookie cheered, “Hey… Where’s Wheat Cake?” Rye Cookie looked between the Elders, Red Velvet and her friends, and the no longer cursed Cactus Cookie. “What is going on?” She said, shaking her head.

“Can you feel the river run? Waves are dancing to the sun,” Sweet Mint Cookie sang as Wheat Cake gently took a cloth and cleaned the dirt and sand from her arms and face. “Take the tide and face the sea, and find a way to follow me.” Wheat Cake smiled as he listened to her sing, even adding a verse of his own as he worked to clean her cuts, “Leave the field and leave the fire, and find the flame of your desire,” Sweet Mint smiled and swayed a bit as her Cake gently smoothed her torn dress out. “Set your heart on this far shore,” the two sang together, taking each other's hand in their own, “and sing your dream to me once more.”

“You still remember,” Wheat Cake said softly, tears coating his eyes as she smiled. “Of course! We used to sing that all the time back at the bakery!” Wheat Cake laughed, “Oh yeah, that little old shop we ran together back in Happy Herbville. Gosh, that seems like a lifetime ago…” he said, lowering his head. It always hurt to think back to the life he used to live with her. He remembered when Sweet Mint first arrived in Happy Herbville, something about her kind nature and charming clumsiness captivated him. From their first conversation he knew… This was his Cookie, the one he was meant to protect. “But I failed…”

“Huh?” Sweet Mint said, tilting her head to the side with that unnaturally wide smile never leaving her face. “I failed to protect you… I couldn’t… I should have…” He held back a sob that had caught in his throat. “I’m so sorry, Sweet Mint… it’s all my fault.” Sweet Mint could feel the Cake shaking in her lap, just barely holding it together. She wrapped her arms around him and pulled him in for a hug. Even with her memories cloudy and her mind broken, she still recognized her old friend, he was hurting, and she wanted to take away that hurt. “It’s not your fault, Wheaty. I’m just glad you’re ok… I’m glad… I’m happy… Happy, happy, happy…” Her voice was too robotic and strained to be convincing. “No, you’re not… You’re suffering. And it’s all because of me.” She ran her hand through his golden blonde stalks of wheat hair. “I can’t suffer anymore, I’m not afraid, and nothing can hurt me with my King’s Blessing,” she said, her voice monotone and her smile strained. Wheat Cake sighed, “Yeah, I know.”

“Arf! Arf! Arf!”

Wheat Cake stiffened and jumped to his feet, boomerang at the ready as he realized Chiffon was standing at the doorway to their hidden corner. “Chiffon…” He hissed through gritted teeth, “What are you doing? Shoo!” Sweet Mint stood up and clapped her hands together, “Ooh! Puppy!” Wheat Cake tugged on the back of her dress as she tried to run to Chiffon, arms outstretched. “Minty, no,” he said firmly. “It’s ok, Wheat Cake,” Red Velvet said as he rounded the corner, scratching Chiffon behind the ears as the pupcake wagged his tail proudly. Wheat Cake stood in front of Sweet Mint Cookie. “How did you find us?” he hissed, boomerang pointed outwards in a display of bravado. Red Velvet chuckled, “Chiffon has an excellent sense of smell, and you left your scent on this,” he said, reaching into his back pocket and pulling out Wheat Cake’s discarded deputy badge. Wheat Cake sighed and lowered his weapon. “Look, I don’t know what Rye Cookie told you, and I am sorry it has to be this way, but I’m not letting anyone take her from me again.”

“Wheaty…” Sweet Mint said softly. Red Velvet held up his hands, “Hey, it’s ok, I get it. I’d be the same way if it was one of my friends.” Wheat Cake scoffed, “No, you don’t get it, have you ever lost someone you cared about because you were too much of a coward to just stand your ground?” Sweet Mint knelt down and placed a hand on his head reassuringly, “I told you to run, remember?” Wheat Cake looked up at her with a sigh, “I shouldn’t have.”

“No, Wheat Cake, you did the right thing,” Red Velvet said, “If it was me I would have wanted to make sure Chiffon was safe as well.” The pupcake wagged his tail happily with a yip. “But escaping to safety meant you were able to go on to help others. If you got caught by Bitter Truth Cookie’s army you never would have made it here, and we never would have met.” Wheat Cake scoffed, “And what good did that do me? What good did that do her!?” He shouted, pointing at the cursed Sweet Mint Cookie. “It means we’ll be able to help her,” Red Velvet replied. “Yeah right, Rye Cookie just sent you to drag me back so she could send her away!” Wheat Cake snapped. “Hey, in all the time you’ve spent working with her, have you ever known Rye to have someone else do her dirty work for her?” Red Velvet reasoned. Wheat Cake paused, looking to Sweet Mint Cookie as she played with his hat. He sighed, “No… Where is she anyway?”

“Chewing out the Village Elders for tampering with the Trials,” Red Velvet replied. “What?” Wheat Cake asked, raising an eyebrow. “Heh, yeah, long story. I can explain on the way back,” Red Velvet said, pointing his thumb over his shoulder. “Hey! I never said I agreed to-”

“Wheat Cake, we know how to cure the Curse.” Wheat Cake blinked and looked back at Red Velvet in disbelief, “Wha- That’s… That’s impossible.” Red Velvet held his hand out. “Come back with us, I can show you. The other two Cookies are back to normal, we can do the same for her.” Wheat Cake placed a hand on Sweet Mint protectively, “I… I dunno, it just sounds too good to be true.” Red Velvet frowned, but then looked up at the Cursed Cookie who was swaying and humming softly, “Sweet Mint… What about you?” She looked in the direction of his voice. “Do you wanna go back, do you wanna keep running for the rest of your life? Or… Do you want to be with Wheat Cake again?” The Cursed Cookie’s brow furrowed in the closest thing to contemplation her expression could manage. Wheat Cake looked up at her expectantly, he knew the Curse made her inclined to be loyal to the manic that cursed her. But to his surprise, she knelt down, and hugged him tight before replying, “I… Want to be with my friend.”

“Mint…” Wheat Cake said softly, letting out a breath he didn’t realize he’d been holding. “Well, that settles it, right?” Red Velvet said with a soft chuckle. Wheat Cake gave him a distrusting look. “Hey, come on, would you ever expect a fellow Cake to lie to you?” Wheat Cake scoffed, “You’re only half Cake.”

“Yeah, but my Cookie half is honest too,” Red Velvet said with a laugh. Sweet Mint hugged her Cake tighter. Wheat looked up to see her smile seemed… Almost genuine. He sighed, and nodded, “Okay.”

The soft glow of shadow and light swirled around Sweet Mint’s bandages. Slowly the glow of the symbols began to fade and the two cured Cookies stepped forward to help her unwrap them. Once she was free, she rubbed her eyes and slowly opened them, as if awakening from a long sleep. She looked up at the two Cookies holding the fading bandages in their hands, then to Red Velvet and Rye, and finally her gaze landed on Wheat Cake, who had been nervously fiddling with his boomerang the entire time. She smiled, not a wide, tense, unnatural smile, but a real one. One that spoke of a true joy and not a forced, artificial one. “Wheaty!” She exclaimed, running up to him, almost knocking Rye Cookie over in the process, and scooping him up and hugging him tight. She laughed, a musical laugh, not the crazed chuckle of a Cookie Cursed, but a genuine laugh. Her laugh. Her smile.

Wheat Cake couldn’t hold back the tears any longer as he gripped the front of her dress, clutching her as if he feared he would lose her again if he dared let go. “I missed you so much,” he said with a hiccup. “I missed you too,” she said, a few tears of her own falling freely as she nuzzled into his wheat locks. The rest of the assembled desserts smiled at the sight, their happy reunion eliciting a few “awww"s from the group. (Schwarzwälder even started crying and hugging his own Cookie, to which Licorice had to tell him to ease up as he was hugging too tight and couldn’t breathe.)

Rye Cookie then gave the three elders a look. Elder Waffle Cone Cookie sighed and approached Red Velvet and his friends. “We owe you all an apology. Out of fear from trying to prevent another Dark Flour War, our actions put you all in great peril.” Another Elder stepped forward, “We hope you all can forgive us.” The third added, “You’ve more than proven yourselves worthy, not only have you followed in their footsteps, but you kids did something not even the Ancient Heroes could do,” she nodded to the three freed Cookies, “You found a cure for the Sonmum Aeternus Curse!” Rye Cookie stepped forward, “And once I get word out to my fellow law enforcement, we can start rounding up all the Cookies we had to lock up to contain the curse and get 'em back to their families!”

Chiffon barked happily. “That’s great news, Rye Cookie!” Red Velvet cheered. Licorice Cookie hummed in thought, “What I wanna know is, why didn’t the Ancient Heroes find the cure? After all, Pure Vanilla Cookie was a Light Magic based Healer, and Dark Enchantress Cookie was a Dark Wizard. How had they never thought to combine their powers?” Dark Choco then spoke up, “Because when the curse was first discovered, Pure Vanilla Cookie had been away on an expedition. For three long years he had been in search of what he called, The Ultimate Healing Spell. And he only returned the day of the invasion of the Vanilla Kingdom. They didn’t have time to look for a cure when they were busy defending the Kingdom from the Blind King’s forces.” Red Velvet raised an eyebrow, “Wait, if Pure Vanilla was away for 3 whole years, then… Who was ruling his kingdom during that time?”

“Dark Enchantress Cookie was,” Licorice Cookie spoke up, “I’d read about it in chapter 10 of the book,” he said, summoning the book they’d been using as a map out of his pocket dimension. Dark Choco nodded, “Right, Pure Vanilla had asked her to look after the kingdom in his absence as the de facto queen. I remember father telling me in the evenings she could be found sitting on a small couch looking out a window overlooking the castle courtyard. Every single night she would sit there, watching, waiting for his return.” Healer Cookie gripped his staff a bit tighter, “For three years?” he said softly, “Every single night? She must have… Cared for him very deeply.” Healer Cookie fell silent, deep in thought before the feeling of Poison Mushroom Cookie tugging on his robes broke him from his musings. “Healer Cookie! C’mon! We’re finally going inside!” Healer shook his head as if to clear it, “Inside… Inside what?”

“The Heroes’ Chamber,” Elder Waffle Cone Cookie said as he stepped aside to clear the path for the group. “You all have proven yourselves to be more than worthy. I hope you find whatever you're seeking inside.” Dark Choco Cookie took the lead, staring down the white hallway that led to the inner chambers of Hero’s Gate. He took a deep breath, this was it, the moment of truth. “Cookies…” He said, brandishing his sword as their voices rose in unison before running down the halls.

“Onward!”