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Amidst the dimly lit hallways of Madolche Chateau, Petingceseour, the youngest Madolche princess, was sneaking about. Escaping her room unseen was as easy as ever. The only dessert Petingceseour had to worry about was her older sister and she was a non-issue. Puddingcess spent so much time looking at a mirror, and every so often would mutter something about anchovies. Why go to the effort of waking up early if you’re gonna waste the time talking with yourself? Petingceseour merely concluded that her older sister was just weird, and set out to execute her one-girl infiltration mission.
Tables along the walls made for the perfect way to elude the ever-vigilant sentries on patrol with their weapon-concealing aprons. If the little pudding got caught by one of them, it would be disastrous! Sticking to the shadows, the young princess skirted her way through the hallways. This would’ve been so much easier if there was still a gelatin bounce mat. There used to be one a few days ago, even used some dyes to make it camouflage with the nearby shrubbery. It was probably the work of that demon maid, she always hated fun.
‘Did you seriously cover yourself in fudge?! Better adjust your alarm, cause curfew is gonna be an hour early tonight!’
‘You don’t want to write this sentence 10 times? I guess you don’t want to watch TV today.’
‘Open wiiiide!~ Here comes the spinach train!’
‘A proper missy knows when to clean up after herself. Take this broom and start sweeping!’
That last thought brought shivers up the little girl’s spine. If Petingceseour has to see another dirt pick, it’ll be too soon… Thankfully, the demon maid wasn’t nearby. Petingceseour allowed herself a single sigh of relief before thinking about the prize. Crawling out from under a table, the young Madolche continued her solo mission. All she had to do was reach one of the guest rooms. Unlike the room housing the two Madolche princesses, each guest room had a phone. A bit old-fashioned compared to the model used by her mom, but it worked well enough for Petinceseour! The girl scanned the endless hallway, looking for a guest room.
Just as luck would have it, there was one right across from the princess. The golden sheen present on the door stood out in the darkness. There was also some weird sign hanging off the door. Upon closer inspection, it read ‘Awww-cute-pies’. Some weird alien script to be sure, but not something to worry about now. The young princess was so close to the goal, and she sure as heck wasn’t gonna let a made-up word distract her from completing her mission. Looking around for any vultures, Petingceseour sidled out of her hiding spot. A fist was raised, holding several rainbow pellets.
In a small whisper, the young Madolche exclaimed, “Now’s my chance!” Gobbling down her only defense, Petingceseour leaned against the goal. Standing on the edge of her tippy tippy toes, Petingceseour reached for the doorknob and opened it. She waddled into the room, delighted to reach her objective.
As the pudding dashed inside, she was alarmed by a groggy voice. Petingceseour pinched herself to make sure she heard correctly. The stinging pain in her cheek let the young princess know that she wasn’t dreaming, but to hear that voice here? Surely it was just one of those, what did Miss Glassoufle call them, plaquebow effects? Yeah, it was one of those things!. That didn’t change the fact that there was someone else in the room other than the young pudding, but still!
*yawn* “This better be an emergency.” The orange-haired dessert grumbled as she reached for her sleep mask. With that sentence, the color drained from Petingceseour’s face. Indeed, the voice that echoed through the room was that of the Devil herself. “Not only is it so early in the morning, this is also my day off!” The young pudding was quivering in fear, at a loss for words at what to say. I mean, what could she say without being volunteered to do some cleaning?
“Oh there you are, you little rascal!” A tall, blonde lifeboat shouted with much enthusiasm and irritation. Marmalmaide climbed out of the bed with haste as Puddingcess forcefully placed her hands on the younger princess’ shoulders. Petingceseour looked upwards to be met with the fakest smile she’d ever laid eyes on.
A sharp clearing of the throat directed the royal siblings’ attention to the third dessert in the room. The orange-haired devil stood at attention, brandishing a pillow as if it were a meal tray. “Your Sweetness! To what do I owe the pleasure?”
“At ease, Marmalmaide. My sister just didn’t know that there was someone occupying this room. You know how rowdy she gets when it comes to hide and seek!” Marmalmaide nodded quite fervently, happy that someone sympathizes with her. “Coupled with how dark it is, I’m sure my overeager little sister must have missed the ‘Occupied’ sign. Isn’t that right Peting?” The young pudding nodded like her life depended on it.
“Yeah, that’s what I thought. Not to worry though, our home is quite big, so I’m sure there are other places for you to hide!” Puddingcess kept that practiced smile up as she ushered her sister out of the room. Then, she addressed the Devil still clad in sleepwear. “Just forget this intrusion ever happened and go back to sleep.” Without waiting for a response, Puddingcess exited the room and closed the door.
No longer within eyeshot of the maid, Petingceseour let out a breath she was holding for much too long.
“Thanks sis! Without you, there would be trouble for sure…”
“Don’t worry about it. What were you doing sneaking into a guest room anyways?”
“I was gonna call Moofin so that we could play all day!” Puddingcess turned away, her expression left unreadable in the darkness. Petingceseour moved around to get a better look, but the older sibling merely walked further down the hall. “Did I say something wrong?”
“Not at all. Just that I doubt that you’d get a hold of Lady Maffin today.”
“Huh? But why? Is she busy?”
“You could say that. It’s the one day in the year where Lady Maffin’s head is in the clouds.”
“Well that’s stupid. Why stick your head up there?” It took a while for the older sibling to reply. The silence led the younger pudding to believe she was ignored. Petingceseour’s face grew red as she prepared to scream, but then that anger dissipated. A window that the duo just passed briefly illuminated Puddingcess’ face. Petingceseour was caught at a disadvantage again. The young pudding had seen many emotions present on her elder sibling’s face, but this was her first time seeing such deep sorrow.
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The party of four desserts continued their trek across the cloudy road. Save for each other, the desserts were left completely alone. Amongst their number, one of the two humanoid desserts was taking careful steps, afraid that the ‘ground’ might swallow her up. A sheep rested in the panicky one’s hair, using the cherry stuck in there as a makeshift pillow. The feline stuck close to the cautious dessert, plugging his ears. As for the last member…
“Sight of night, I cheer to embrace the magic! Melody from a distance can you hear it? Visions displayed ooooon the monitors. Can you see the moon and the stars and the sun? Could they be in our IMAGINAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAATION?!!!”
“Could you stop with that nonsensical racket?!”
“That’s nyat in the cards. The party doesn’t stop until we drop! All together now, from the beginning.” The aspiring songstress grabbed the hands of the other humanoid. Said contact took the latter by surprise and the princess reflexively jumped away. “Just look at me okay? It’ll be fiiiine, I promise!”
“With all due respect, Your Sweetness, I don’t think it’s wise to get caught up in her whims.”
“Don’t be such a party pooper! My whims have never steered us wrong.”
“Well, if your mission was to find 9 different WcRonalds’ within an hour, then I’d agree with you.”
“Oi! It’s not my fault that the fast food chain has an aggressive business strategy. And besides, you got some tasty fish filet sandwiches out of the ordeal too.”
“For the last time, we’re desserts! We don’t require food for sustenance!” It was hard to make out, given the cat’s pink fur, but an unmistakable blush was creeping upon his cheeks.
“Well if that's the case, why didn’t you stop me from buying meals at each of the places we visited?”
“...” In response to the silent answer, the songstress smirked in victory. “What? I can’t say no to fish! Especially that limited-edition deluxe sandwich.”
“You mean the Wicked Salmon Supreme? The filet that tastes so good that it’s terrorizing?” If the cat didn’t know any better, he’d accuse the fledgling light maiden of being a WcRonalds’ spokesperson. Though if she was, she’s frighteningly good at her job.
“Yes, exactly that one! The next time we go on a detour, you have to get me one of those delicacies.”
“There are no detours! Dontcha know that it’s about the journey and not the destination? Think of it as a colorful chapter in the fable that is our life!” A look was shared between the feline and the cautious dessert. The cat shrugged and scrambled into the aspiring songstress’ hair.
“Very well, if you wish to goof off, go ahead. So long as we keep moving forward, I can stomach your musical…” Mewfeuille stopped, trying to think of a way to let the prophesied Madolche Hero down gently. “-passion.”
“Then let’s begin from the top!” Maffin pulled out a gymnast’s baton and held it like a mic. “And one and a two and a one, two- Whatever I want, I get. I want shooting stars! Whatever I need, I have, whenever I’m with yoooou. Follow me inside, outside, throoough the stratosphere!! The moon is shining for you. It knows that I adore you!”
“S-suddenly all the, sadness, w-will…” Everyone was left silent as Puddingcess’ interjected. Losing the main vocalist gave the princess a crippling case of stage fright. “I’m sorry, I just wanted to join in.”
The WcRonalds’ spokeperson shoved her face into the princess, her eyes lit with excitement. “No no no no no! You were perfect! I didn’t realize you knew the words.”
The princess bashfully looked away as she took only a few steps back. “I may be a royal, but that doesn’t mean I can’t have a few hobbies.”
“I hear that! Gimme five sistah!” Maffin’s raised hand was left wanting for about a minute before she relented. “Let’s resume the karaoke! Puddingcessu, if you would?” Maffin gave a mock curtsy as a spotlight came upon the Madolche princess.
*ahem* “S-suddenly all the, sadness, will just slip away-”
“-and you will see what I mean. If you just follow me in my DREEEAAAMS!!! ” / “If you just follow me in my dreeeaams!!” Maffin hugged Puddingcess, hoisting the dessert princess off the vaporous ground in celebration. The duo spun around, locked in elation. Laughter echoed all throughout the area, even the feline couldn’t help but crack a smile.
*baaa* *baaa*
“Hmm? Did you notice something Baaple?” *baaa* “I can’t speak sheep, but I’m mostly sure that translates to a ‘Yes.’ Either that or he wants an encore.” Maffin’s face was forcefully jerked in a direction, putting a set of tall, silver buildings firmly in her field of view. Some people would be so bold as to call it a city. “Ah.”
“Make haste, Maiden of Light, another Madolche might be stranded there! With any luck, we won’t have to happen across another fast food establishment. I’ve eaten enough fish for a lifetime.”
“What about the other eight?”
“Never mind that, we’re getting sidetracked! Just go.” With that, the quartet of desserts set out towards the city atop the clouds. As they trekked through the thin streets, Puddingcess favored hiding behind Maffin. The towering structures bunched close together further gave the impression of boxing in the group.
“The architecture is so unwelcoming here.” Puddingcess noted. “None of the doors are at ground level and all the buildings reach up so high. It’s almost like they’re competing with each other. What do you think, Maiden of Light?” Said girl was preoccupied waving at the clouds with faces above them. A few of them waved back, but most were oblivious to the presence of what was below them.
“If I may, Your Sweetness?”
“Speak Mewfeuille.”
“I believe that we’re in the Province of Clouds, Leputa. Many of the inhabitants match the description of beings known as ‘Cloudians’. Don’t let their poofy appearances fool you, they are quite temperamental. Try not to anger them.”
“I see. You’re quite knowledgeable about these things.”
The feline beamed with pride. “Messengelato and Magileine would know more, each of them possess more worldly knowledge. The former occasionally regales me with tales about the places he visits. Although, if an altercation does occur, I doubt that you’ll be the root cause.”
“That’s a relief. I’ll be sure to watch my words around them if we have to speak. I’d rather not troub-”
*pomf*
The dessert princess readjusted the cherry and sheep atop her head as she took a step back. “Lady Maffin?” Puddingcess repeatedly poked the immobile hero’s side. “Umm, Earth to Lady Maffin?”
“Is it really him?”
“Huh? Who are you referring to?”
Maffin frantically pointed to a dessert in the city square. “The blonde hair, the piano key decals lined across the bottom of his coat and along the sleeves. He even has the red feather sticking out of his hat!~” The Maiden of Light screamed as she broke out into a mad dash. Despite the very obvious loud noise, Chouxvalier was very much not prepared to be tackled, especially in a place where none of the civilians possess legs!
“T-T-Too close… G-Get off me!” The knight tried to pry the girl away, but to no avail. His complaints also fell on deaf ears, drowned out by-
“YouevensoundcuterinpersonomigoshthisislikeadreamcometrueSQUUUEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!” -by that. It was drowned out by whatever you’d call that reaction.
Luckily for the oathsworn knight, salvation came in the form of a rather shy royal.
“Pardon me Lady Maffin. Could you perhaps let go of Ser Chouxvailer? His face is turning a worrying shade of blue.”
“Buthe’saMadolcheIhaven’tgottentoseeinthecandyfleshandhe’ssoooooooadorbslikeamassiveplushteddybearIjustcan’thelpmyselfIhavetogivehimalargehu-”
“L-Lady Maffin please!” The untested hero instantly shut up and gave the young princess her mostly undivided attention. “I know you mean no harm but Ser Chouxvalier is most distressed. Perhaps it would do us all some good to slow down, take a deep breath and give a proper introduction?”
“Oh, I… I can do that.” It pained Maffin to let go of her beloved, but she did so, much to the knight’s relief. “GRRR-EATINGS!! I’m Maf- I can’t, I’m really sorry! It’s just, it’s really you!”
Chouxvalier furrowed his brow. “Who would I be if not myself?”
“Apologies, Ser Chouxvalier. You’ll have to forgive Lady Maffin. She is rather new to this world, and as you’ve experienced, is quite easily fascinated.”
“A newcomer you say? Then, does that mean?”
“Indeed it does sweetie!” Maffin added with a chuckle. The untested hero pulled out a small piece of cardboard and nearly shoved it into the oathsworn knight’s face. “Lookylookylooky! It’s me, Madolche Maffin, in the candy flesh as a rad Level 5 monster! Not as cool as Puddingcessu, but being the Madolche Hero makes for a good consolation prize, right?”
“Indeed it is. Though you already know who I am, I should match your enthusiasm with a proper introduction.” Chouxvalier smiled as he went down on one knee. “Madolche Chouxvalier, at your service. A pleasure to finally meet you, Madolche Hero. You have my deepest thanks for keeping Her Sweetness safe while I was indisposed.”
“Hee hee hee. Oh stop it, you charmer!” Maffin’s cheeks flushed red as she cradled her face with her hands. “Maybe when all this is over, you and I can spend some time alone together. You and me, bound by the red string of fate! We can start with walks then revisit past adventures. Fiends burst out of the woodwork and we affirm our mutual desire by protecting each other! Eventually the tide of darkness overruns us and-”
The oathsworn knight grimaced as the untested hero continued on and on with her fantasizing. “Is she always like this?”
Mewfeuille was the one to answer. “Yes, yes she is. Once she gets started, it’s hard to make her stop. I think Her Sweetness has grown rather fond of them.” The princess didn’t reply, awaiting the next turn Maffin’s fantasy would take. “ *sigh* Guess it’s up to me to keep everyone on task. What have you been doing since you arrived here?”
Chouxvalier shot straight up and gave a salute. “I’ve been exploring the perimeter in search of a way to establish long-distance communications. My efforts thus far have proven unsuccessful thus far.”
“What about the locals? Did they offer no assistance?”
“Affirmative. Most of them didn’t even acknowledge me. At first, I thought it was intentional. Further observation has revealed that their eyes have this glazed, lazy look about them. Given how the populace has enough awareness to not just constantly collide with each other, I suspect that these Cloudians are being controlled, with their senses dulled as a side effect.”
The feline shot a worried look at the chatterbox. “So a Great Mechanism might have taken root here. This is most dire.”
“Take heart, Mewfeuille. The prophesied Madolche Hero is here with us, and I’ve trained to defend you all. There’s absolutely nothing to worry about.”
“I hope you’re right. For everyone’s sake.”
“If your suspicions are correct, then it is most fortuitous timing for your arrival. During my reconnaissance, there was one area that I noticed the Cloudians frequenting. It’s like a crystalline hut, located in one corner of the city. As pitiful as it is, fear has stopped me from exploring further. With greater numbers, and with the Madolche Hero on our side, we should be able to handle what comes our way.”
“Then, one minute before the curse takes effect, I arrive, brandishing the mythical Miracle Mint Cinnamon Swirl Sundae! I tenderly spoon feed the legendary substance to my beloved. Color returns to your adorable face as everyone rejoices. Our success gives me comfort, as this means that I made Marr Tyrdam’s sacrifice worth it.”
“Oooh, how wonderful!” Puddingcess gave a roar of applause as Baaple gave some amused bleats. “You should really maintain a journal to keep these stories in.”
“You really think so?”
“Of course! That way you can share your fictional genius with everyone! I know it’d serve as the perfect supplement to the Manners Book during reading time.”
“Thanks a bunch! With a ringing endorsement like that, I have to do it! You’ll be the first to see what I’ve come up with for sure.”
“Your Sweetness, Lady Maffin.” Chouxvalier nodded at two in turn.
“You called sweetie?”
“...Right. You should stay on your guard, a Great Mechanism could be dwelling here. When you take into account the current condition of the Cloudians, we must assume that preparation is on that cretin’s side. Consequently, we should exercise the utmost caution.”
“Why would we need to exercise? If we don’t need to eat, surely we don’t have to lose weight, right?” Chouxvalier’s look briefly turned to one of skepticism.
“You can’t be serious.”
“I most certainly am! I don’t know how Madolche bodies work soooo Imma need you to be more clear.”
“Lady Maffin, the gallant knight is simply telling you to be careful.” *baa* *baaa*
“Ah. Well, do you know where the Great Mechanism is?”
“I cannot give you its exact location. However, during my reconnaissance, I noticed a peculiar crystalline cavern at the edge of the city. Many of the Cloudians would frequent that area with some sort of natural material in tow. So it’s most likely nested in there.”
“So we should head straight there.”
“Precisely. I trust that you have a plan?”
“Walk in and beat it up.”
“Just like that?”
“Hmmm… Now that you mention it, I guess that is too direct.” Chouxvalier cracked a small smile. Maffin may be young, but at least she understands that frontal assault is a strategy that’s guaranteed to fail. “Okay, new plan. First, we disguise ourselves as WcRonalds’ Delivery Drivers and then we enter the area. We treat the baddie to a full course meal of chicken goodness. Puddingcess gives a rousing serenade while Baaple and Mewfeuille break out into interpretative dance. Finally, the two of us strike a final, decisive blow powered by our love!”
“That would never work.”
“Aw fudge.” After mulling over several trains of thought for an idea, the Maiden of Light snapped her fingers when something came to her. “Alright, new plan. Normal Summon Mewfeuille, use his effect to Special Summon Baaple. Activate Star Changer, change Baaple’s Level from 3 to 2, then Synchro Summon for Ally of Jus-”
“Yeah, I’m going to stop you there. You of all people should know that NEITHER BAAPLE NOR I ARE TUNER MONSTERS!!”*baaaa*
“Well yeah, but you recently just ate a whole bunch of fish filet. So I thought…”
“Why would eating fish make me a Tuner monster?” As soon as the question left the feline’s lips, Mewfeuille instantly regretted it. Puddingcess covered her mouth to stifle her giggles as Maffin showed off her pearly whites.
“Because of all the tuna!”
‘A most amusing jest.’
“Thanks Puddingcessu!”
“Umm, that wasn’t me, Lady Maffin.”
“Huh? Then who said that?”
‘It was I.’ A chill went down the spine of each of the Madolches there. As if the same instinct went through their heads, all of the desserts gazed upwards. Above all of them was a creature that looked like a bright yellow octopus wearing a cerulean helmet. Though it had no mouth, everyone present could feel a condescending grin just emanating from this… thing.
“Oh um… hello there. Are you a Great Mechanism?”
‘That designation means nothing to me. More importantly, why are you in my domain?’
“Huh. You’re giving off some sort of loud inside voice, how are you doing that?”
‘You do not need to know that information.’ The desserts clutched their heads as an intense pressure was bearing down on them. Just listening felt like their brains were trying to break out of their collective skulls. ‘I ask again, why are you here?’
“I’m here to find all the lost Madolches!”
‘Yet another foreign term.’
“Foreign, so you’re an outsider like me huh? What are you doing here?”
‘I am merely trying to head back home. Though this area possesses an adequate amount of vapor, its water supply is much too limited for me to thrive. Furthermore, I do not feel the presence of the Oligarch.’
“A lot of things you’re saying are going over my head, but if I understand you correctly, you’re away from someone important to you, right?”
‘The Oligarch is not important. The Oligarch is essential.’
“That’s good! Well… not good that you’re apart, but I can understand being separated from a loved one.” The untested hero psyched herself up by pumping a fist into the air. “Let’s do a trade. If you help me out, I’ll help you out! Friendship can conquer any wedge, even if it’s an entire world!”
‘A most curious proposition. I accept.’
“Awesome! Now I have this pl-”
“Not that I don’t trust you Lady Maffin, but could you perhaps say something somewhat reasonable?”
“No need to worry Puddingcessu! This’ll be my best plan yet. So Mr…”
‘Xis’torq.’
“Xis’torq. I can hear you in my head so uh, does that mean you’re an esper? You know, telepathy, telekinesis and all that ESP mumbo-jumbo?”
‘Affirmative.’
“Perfect!” Maffin took out a card and held it in front of the yellow esper. “What I’ve got here is the Spell Card, Madolche Ticket. I’ve been able to reach out to the various Madolches around the world by pouring mana into it. I figure that if you and I work together, we can link the minds of all Madolches together and organize a rendezvous.”
There was a pause as the floating psychic was deep in contemplation. During the stifling silence, Chouxvalier and Mewfeuille shared a concerned look. Everything about the situation felt like an eventual dive into oblivion. Perhaps the abyss would be more merciful to them than a Great Mechanism ever would.
After an eternity, the strange voice echoed in the desserts’ minds once more. ‘Not a bad idea. Shall we begin?’
“Yes we can! Just give me a few minutes.” The untested hero closed her eyes as she took soft, silent breaths. A mote of light became a stream of mana. Mana spilled out as the young maiden tried to herd the mana into a pool. Said accumulated mana constantly rebelled against Maffin’s control, with various particles of light trying to break free. Beads of sweat trailed down Maffin’s forehead as she tried to keep the mana concentrated in one spot. The fledgling hero’s breaths grew staggered as her body strained to maintain the spell. Maffin couldn’t falter here, all the Madolches were counting on her! She just needed to hold some light mana together for just a little bit longer. Almost… almost…
*shnng*
The continuous spell was coated in a brilliant light. It was as if all present had witnessed the birth of a new star… albeit miniscule. Puddingcess gasped and found that no noise escaped her mouth.
‘W-What’s going on?’
‘Your Sweetness! Are you alright?’
‘I very much am not! We’re who knows how far away from home, I can’t even breathe and Lady Maffin has gone as unresponsive as a statue! What if that thing just up and decides to annihilate us?! I don’t want to die here!’
‘Can you keep the incessant chatter down for when the others join in?’
‘Shut up! Can’t you see I’m trying t- Wait, what?’
‘Your inferior minds are all connected for the time being, as per the request of your excitable friend. Be not afraid, for your respiratory functions have not failed you.’
‘That... is a bit of a relief.’
‘When this is over, remind me to congratulate Lady Maffin after this. Something she thought of actually worked out well.’
‘It seems that you all need to have things repeated before they stick. Again, I say to you, be silent. At least, until the others are audible here.’ Surprisingly, the desserts were much more agreeable after hearing this. All was quiet as their surroundings transformed into an endless pitch-black void. Puddingcess clung to the fledgling oathsworn knight, causing Chouxvalier undue amounts of stress. Then suddenly, each of the desserts clutched their head as their minds were battered with an intense amount of pressure.
‘Poison or medicine, which will be more popular? Fu fu fu…’ | ‘Gorg triggered yet another trap. Why didn’t that big lug wait for Cliff?’ | ‘When news of that sandwich becomes more widespread, there will be pandemonium for sure! Gya ha ha ha!’ | ‘Zushin the Sleeping Giant, a creature with power rivaling the gods? First Exceeds and now this, what will the nutjobs think of next?’
The Madolches’ brains were battered by the maelstrom of thoughts. Only so many surface thoughts were meant to be contained at one time. Space twisted and turned around them as the aquatic psychic glowed an eerie yellow. Their surroundings switched between several settings, ranging the gamut from a rural area to flooded ruins.
‘I’ve always wanted to cross blades with you Ben Kei. At the crack of dawn, we shall finally see who is stronger!’ | ‘That spooky mine confuses me. If everyone hates it so much, why hasn’t it been officially closed off?’ | ‘Unlike the Koa’ki Meiru, the fruits of my labor will bear success! This time, this time, the world will truly know the genius of I, the great Kozaky!’
After that declaration, everything was dyed crimson. Xis’torq vibrated aggressively as the flood of voices dissipated. Chouxvalier readied his sword as Puddingcess tugged at Maffin’s sleeve. The untested hero did not respond to the contact. Maybe in this state, she couldn’t receive physical sensations. Puddingcess gulped and attempted to think, hoping that they could still communicate telepathically.
‘L-Lady Maffin?’
Still no response. Before the royal pudding could make another attempt, Chouxvalier clapped her on the shoulder.
‘My apologies, Your Sweetness. I fear that words won’t be of much help here.’
‘Then what can we do?’
‘What my duty compels me to.’ And the knight lunged at the vibrating mass.
Instead of meeting amorphous flesh, Chouxveiler’s blade met nothing. The desserts grew stationary as their vision filled with red. High-pitched shrieking echoed through the space.
.tetrauq eht fo sthguoht elos eht era esehT "!etanimretxE !etacidarE !etanimilE"
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“Mhm, what happened?” Maffin rubbed her forehead, trying to make sense of everything. The untested hero opened her eyes and was met with the familiar sight of cardboard. “Madolche Ticket… Wait, did my plan work?” The magical muffin instantly shot up to survey her surroundings.
It was a nightmare.
Several of the Cloudians’ bodies were scattered along the cloud floor. Their bodies looked gray and decrepit. Leputa’s brilliant silver buildings were naught but toppled ruins. For better or worse, Puddingcess and the other Madolches were nowhere to be seen. The young maiden broke out into a mad dash. As the magical muffin vaulted over some debris, there was only one thought on her mind.
‘Please oh please oh please be safe…’
Maffin went past who knows how many structures and yet couldn’t find any trace of her precious friends. There was not much but shriveled clouds laying on the poofy road. “MARCOOOOO!!!” The young maiden repeated the call, hoping for anyone to give the expected response. Even a snarky remark would be welcome at this point.
Maffin climbed atop some rubble to get a better vantage point. “Baaple, you there?” The untested hero was met with deafening silence. Scanning the nearby area, the young maiden saw only destroyed buildings and a bunch of gray clouds on the streets. ‘S-Surely, they must be hiding right?’ Cupping her hands in front of her face, the maiden yelled with gusto. “Mewfeuille! Puddingcess! Chouxvalier! Anyone!! CAAAAAAN YOOOOOOOU HEAAAAR ME???”
Yet again, the reply was the sound of silence.
Trying a different approach, the light maiden moved towards one of the several Cloudians laying still on the ‘ground’. Maffin’s outstretched hand was gripped by fear. The creature was there so given enough stimuli, it would respond, right? Alternatively… no, there was no alternative. Maffin placed a hand upon the poofy form. Surprisingly, it felt rather dry. The young maiden shook the dehydrated critter, but the cloud would not respond.
“I think a healing spell should do the trick. Alright, here we go!” Light mana was drawn to the untested hero as the town turned monochrome. Maffin grunted as she grasped for more power. The energy yearned for release, acting against the untested hero’s efforts for stockpiling.
“Mend that…” As Maffin spoke the words, she found it easier to direct the mana. This moment of realization and relief turned to panic as the magic realized that the incantation stopped. “M-Mend that… which… has been broken- Heal!” All the pooled mana surged into the fallen Cloudian, enveloping it in a cocoon of light. When the light faded, the cloud was motionless. Maffin poked the dried up pile of moisture once, then again, and thrice more.
“You’re not going to wake up are you?” As much as she wanted to deny it, Maffin already knew the truth. A life was extinguished. The oncoming tide of grief pushed Maffin’s thoughts into overdrive. Maffin slovenly went around the wasteland and poked each of the gray clouds there. The despairing dessert went further down a downward spiral with each contact.
‘They’reallgoneandit’sallmyfaultstupidstupidstupidIknewtherewouldprobablybedangerbutIthouggtIcouldweatheritIthoughtWEcouldweatheritafterallmyplanwasgoingfineandthentherewerevoicesanditwasalldarkbutit’llbeokayI’mtheMadolcheHerorightandaheroisasaviorright’
When realization hit, the light at the end of the tunnel was not comforting at all.
‘This title of mine. It’s a curse isn’t it?’ With no rebuttals thrown her way, Maffin knelt and wept into the clouds. ‘Why did I even bother going out on this adventure? Ever since I ran into Mewfeuille, I haven’t even done anything of worth. That Overlord guy was spooky but then he made himself a massive target by becoming a jellyfish. That dinosaur nearly ate Baaple and were it not for that green swordsman helping me… Even recently, my meek best friend Puddingcessu was the one to caution against my last idea.’ The false hero curled into the fetal position and leaned onto the ‘ground’.
*shnng*
Maffin felt a pulse of light coming from her pocket, and promptly tried her best to ignore it. Clutching her dress even tighter, the false hero pressed herself further into the ‘ground’. The Continuous Spell wouldn’t let up and sent more surges of light. Each sensation further infuriated the magical muffin.
Seconds passed… Minutes passed… The two cards were deadlocked, testing the limits of each other’s will.
The false hero blinked first.
Maffin plucked the irritating Continuous Spell out of her pocket and winced for the sudden exposure of brightness. “Well, what is it? Trying to rub in how useless I am?”
*shnng*
“Four behind? Is that some sort o- they’re alive?! ” Maffin’s head snapped around so fast, one would think that she’s part-owl. The false hero ran towards the quartet of desserts and hugged her best friend. Maffin didn’t mind how drenched Puddingcess’ dress was. “I’m so glad to see you guys! Everything was all dark for a long time. When I woke up I was alone in a pile, I thought I screwed up everything. At least you guys are alright.” Puddingcess was still moving onwards. ‘She must want to get outta here more than I do.’
“!etanimretxE !etacidarE !etanimilE”
“Gesundheit?”
“!etanimretxE !etacidarE !etanimilE” Maffin was shoved aside as the other Madolches advanced with a slurred gait.
“What’s gotten into you? I can understand trying to leave, but what’s so urgent that a heartfelt reunion doesn’t even mean anything?” The false hero followed the gaze of her friends and spotted a diminutive yellow cloud. The little Cloudian was crawling as fast as its itty bitty legs could take it. ‘Wait a minute… they’re not seriously gonna hurt that little guy, right?’ Maffin interposed herself between the marching desserts and the little Cloudian. “I don’t know what that Cloudian did to offend you all, but we can leave them alone. Our goal is to find the others and get back home right? Let’s just skedaddle.”
The desserts would not yield to their so-called hero. Their chants of “!etanimretxE !etacidarE !etanimilE” were getting on the magical muffin’s nerves. Maffin braced herself as she leeched whatever mana was still in her surroundings. The false hero’s arms were getting a little sore from how long and how often she had to hold them up, but no matter! “Khh… Banish the a-ability to target- Blink!” The discharged spell created a brief flash of light. When it was safe to see again, Maffin noticed that the Madolches had stopped moving. Had they any more autonomy, the desserts would’ve looked at each other for an answer none of them had.
“It worked! It worked! My spell saved the life of an innocent being!” The false hero leapt for joy as finally things were looking up. Maffin clapped Chouxvalier on the shoulder as laughter erupted from her. “Looks like I’ve still got a bit more luck in me yet. Can I have a celebratory smooch as a reward for some quick thinking?” The false hero puckered her lips as she took the plunge into her desire.
*bwap*
“Ouch!” Maffin rubbed her cheek. “I get it okay? I gotta ease up on the public displays of affection.”
“!etanimretxE !etacidarE !etanimilE”
Maffin retreated while keeping her eyes on the four approaching Madolches. “Um…guys? If this is a prank you can stop it now.” Maffin’s plea fell on deaf ears. Chouxvalier rushed forward, candy cane sword in hand. The false hero kept stepping backwards, hoping to stay ahead of the oathsworn knight’s wide sweeping slashes.
‘Eyes on the sword, Maffin. Gotta keep moving keepmovingkeepmov-’ The magical muffin felt her ankle being pierced. Risking a glance below, Mewfeuille was spotted biting into the false hero’s candy flesh. “Gah, get off- oh crap!” A red-white swirl whizzed above Maffin’s head as strands of blonde hair fell to the ground. The false hero was forced back as Chouxvalier jabbed the pommel into her forehead. In her daze, Maffin was just barely able to avoid decapitation as the sword grazed her shoulder.
“We’-eep!-we’re all Madolches here. Got to have a rousing karaoke session right? T-kh-that has to account for something.”
“!etanimretxE !etacidarE !etanimilE”
“What are you eve-ah!” Maffin’s heart skipped a beat as she stumbled over an unsuspecting ball of wool. Seizing the opportunity, the oathsworn knight leapt into the air. Rolling away from the incoming stab, Maffin dashed away. ‘Ngh.. think Maffin think. How do I get the others to see rea-’ The magical muffin stopped as a dessert princess flailed past her. Maffin stifled a giggle at the laughable display. ‘Awww, it’s sooo adorable seeing her trying to- wait a minute, she’s not the one I should be on lookout for.’ As a fist gently sunk into her side, the false hero looked around for signs of Chouxvalier. The task didn’t prove too hard, as the oathsworn knight was unsubtly lurching towards Maffin. Baaple was sneaking around behind the knight, with her head drooping low.
‘Poor Baaple, she never was one for continued strenuous activity. I need to end this fast, but how?’ As if responding to Maffin’s heartfelt wish, the Continuous Spell in her hand shone brilliantly. Its light washed over the young maiden. Maffin glanced at the illuminated cardboard and cracked a smile. ‘I think I’ve got it. I’ve been talking to them, but I’m not speaking their language. Alright, here goes… something!’
*shnng*
The light from Madolche Ticket expanded and enveloped the five desserts. All the Madolches recoiled from the blinding light. When the flash of light passed, the false hero saw that the ground, sky, buildings and just about everything else was replaced with a deep red. ‘Is everyone okay?’ Maffin saw that the answer was a firm ‘no.’ All the other Madolches lay comatose.
‘INTERESTING, a CUB was HIDDEN with THE ants ants.’ The voice felt distant yet omnipresent.
“Mr. Xis’torq? Is that you?”
‘YOU mean THAT chieftain WITH a TRIBE of SMOG SMOG?! GWAAaaaaa HAA HAAAA!! HE is BUT a PIECE of MY completion completion. THOUGH it SEEMS the INFERIOR psionics ARE resisting me…’ That last thought trailed off, like a recording that suddenly stopped. The false hero blankly looked around for a few moments. When the voice didn’t return, Maffin floated towards her friends and attempted to resuscitate them. Maffin’s attempts were fruitless, but when she put an ear to their midsections, the magical muffin could hear breathing. They were… stable, unlikely to wake up soon, but clearly not dead.
‘GRRR-EATINGS, insignificant GNAT GNAT.’
“I… didn’t we just meet? Who are you anyways?”
‘I AM AM AM am INFANTILE, I AM SUPREME SUPREEEEEEME SUPREME, I AM a project, project. Creator designated this one one, Mind Master. Insufficient SUGAR suGAR in original body.’ An image of the aquatic psychic, Xis’torq was displayed before Maffin. Alongside the projection, were several profiles of the various Cloudians that inhabited Leputa. Each diagram was opted to show scans of the subject’s inner biology, rather than their outward appearances. A common trend between the scans were the specific highlights of the brain and its structure. ‘Chieftain full of PSIONIC POTENTIAL, form contains littleittle other than MUSIC and water. NOT ENOUGH water nearby nearby. ENTIRE TOWN only able to sustain for for for 20 minutes before COMPLETE AND TOTAL APOPTOSIS. Current objective, assimilate body of polysaccharides to achieve PERFECTION PERFECTION.’
A massive brain with an eye tore itself into the red space. As it did so, five spotlights each lit up one of the desserts present. Maffin reflexively took a step back from the floating brain. Apo this and saccha that, much of this was going over Maffin’s head. One thing that was clear…
“You’re a monster!” The false hero pointed a finger accusingly, hoping the display of bravado could protect her.
‘I am FULFILLING MY FUNCTION function! Since my original original body booody is inadequate to perform the task task task, I muuust achieve perfection to cement cement my superrriiiiority to ALL OTHER PSYCHIIIIIICCCCCCCS!’
“Well, if your superiority relies on abusing others, then I want no part of this!” Maffin sidled closer to the other Madolches, outstretching her hands in a protective manner.
‘GWAAaaaaa HAA HAAAA!! WHAT caaaaaaan you do? I have have hAVE peered into your siiiimple mind mind. You even know that you’re a failure, a reject, a mistakemistakemistakemistake! Why not giiiiiiVE up and take solace knowing that your body will be better utilized utilized?’ Mind Master replicated itself countless times. The myriad brains loomed over the quintet as the cacophony of their haphazard laughter ringed in Maffin’s ears.
“You’re right about one thing, I am a failure as a hero. Couldn’t even save a city from my own crummy idea.”
‘Yeeeesss, better you consign yourself to assimilimilimilimation.’
“Even still…”
*shnng*
“I may not be able to save any person like a true hero can, but a Madolche Hero can save Madolches!”
‘What aREEE you doINg?’
“This spirit of mine is glowing bright, its dazzling gleam tells me to protect my friends!”
‘STOP this this inanane speech speech speeech!’ Mind Master roared as several brains rushed the newborn hero.
“Here I go, SHINING METEOR!!! ” An enormous comet pierced through the crimson void and crashed through one of the brains. There was no ground to crash into so the sphere of light curved around for another pass. Another brain was obliterated as the clones dispersed. While the critters fled, ruined buildings rose from the pool of crimson.
“You won’t get away!” Light surged into the brilliant spell as it broke apart into several comets. During its flight, the brilliant spell broke apart into several comets. Crimson faded into white as the celestial bodies left no area overlooked. For one trapped within the realm of thoughts, there was no escape from the unyielding desire to save others. Space shattered around the newborn hero as a guttural growl echoed in the distance.
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affin… Lad… M..fin
“Mhm.. five more minutes…” *lick* *lick* “Hee hee, that tickles.”
*BAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA*
“GAH! I’m up, I’m up!” Maffin woke up in a cold sweat. “Where am I? Is that weird brain gone?Arethingsnolongersored?AmItheonlyoneprivytomythoughts?Isthegroundjustafluffypoofycloudagain?DoIneedsunglassestolookatMadolcheTicketagain?Whatda-”
“Lady Maffin, calm down!” It was the familiar de-crazified voice of Puddingcess. Good, this was… probably not a dream and not a living nightmare. *baaa* *baaa* Baaple looked to be in high spirits as well.
“Sorry. These past few hours have been..” Maffin lazily rolled a hand as she tried to come up with a proper word. “...stressful.” The newborn hero ruffled the wool of Baaple before face-faulting straight into the storage of soft fluffy wool.
“I can imagine. When you did that spell with that weird flying octopus, you just went totally still. After that, I was un-myself. The only thing I could think of were those strange words, repeated in an endless loop. To assert dominion over lesser beings and gather the necessary materials to create the perfect psychic.” The dessert princess gazed in a random direction. “So many lives were lost, and for what? Nothing… absolutely nothing.”
Maffin stood up, hiding her expression from both of the other Madolches. “I’m gonna go take a walk okay? Don’t want my legs to be turned into noodles and give out when I need them most.” Before Puddingcess could respond, the magical muffin ran off.
The sky was a serene light blue, but the streets were still covered in debris and dried up bodies. It was sick, a monument to a colossal failure. Maffin balled her fists and slammed against the slanted bricks. ‘Darnit, darnit darnit! It never should’ve ended up like this! I just wanted to help the Madolches and have fun while doing so! Do I… do more harm than good?’ Each word was punctuated with a new bruise to Maffin’s knuckles.
“Lady Maffin. A word if you will?” ‘Oh fudge, it’s Chouxvalier…’
Maffin let out a deep breath as she left a red smear on her skirt. “Go away, I don’t want to talk to anyone right now.”
“You don’t have to talk, just merely listen.” The oathsworn knight hastily added, “With your permission of course.” The light maiden turned around to face her beloved, but otherwise stayed silent. Chouxvalier cleared his throat then began anew. “I will admit that your conduct was incredibly unprofessional. While we were caught unawares, you just charged on forward without even considering another course of action. Such recklessness will prove to be our undoing I fear. It’s already worked wonders on the now ex-Province of Clouds.” ‘Oh great, now he hates me. Or maybe he always did and this gave a perfect opportunity to admit it. Khh.. he probably hates me even more now since I’m not paying attention to him.’
When Maffin detached herself from her own doomsaying, she witnessed Chouxvalier… kneeling? “W-What are you doing?”
“That’s twice I’ve been indebted to you. You’ve been keeping Her Sweetness safe in my stead and despite being in close proximity to her, I was overcome. I am sure Mewfeuille has more scathing words to throw at you. Know this, without you, none of us would be standing here today. For that, please accept my deepest gratitude.”
“Oh Chouxvalier-senpai, you know just what to say! Thankyouthankyouthankyou!”
“You are most welcome, Lady Maffin. Though I would appreciate it if you dropped that weird addition to my name.” The oathsworn knight wished he had a bag to barf into. Did the Madolche Hero really have to be so clingy?
“You don’t like it? But it’s so adorbs and showcases my affection for you.”
“I think you give me enough affection as is…”
“Awww, okay.” Maffin squealed as she nuzzled against the incredibly handsome blonde knight before her. ‘It’s just like one of my favorite novels. Siiiiigh, I wish this moment could last forever.’
“Right then, do you mind if we rejoin the others? We are the most combat capable members of our group and I’d rather not unnerve Her Sweetness.”
“Haha, sure thing sweetie!” Maffin cracked a smile as she trekked onwards with newfound direction.
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Amongst those that live in the sky, there’s a common myth called, The Wailing Shade . Said fable speaks of a chorus of grief that can be heard at the fallen cloud kingdom. These lamentations originate from nothing and transform the ruins into an echo chamber. In the midst of the melancholy moaning is a floating umbrella. It always appears to witness the pain-drenched melody.