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Chapter Text

Shadow Milk Cookie was no stranger to exhaustion, but recently the feeling had crept up on him more times than he'd like to admit. He would doze off in the middle of working on projects, or grow annoyingly sluggish when he was trying to plot his next attack on that pesky Pure Vanilla Cookie... Plots that may never be used, considering the circumstances.
Even as the Fount Of Knowledge, he'd fought through many sleepless nights toiling away over letters and lectures.

It is incredibly frustrating now, laying in a field of cruelly ironic white lily flowers, that his body refuses to obey him. This forsaken vessel promised to him by the old hag that betrayed him just moments prior to this.
The few remains of his cracked souljam were held in his bleeding palms.
Stupid. Imbecile. Idiot.
Were his minions still alive? Or did she slaughter them after the confrontation? He may never know.

The sickly sweet smell of lilies mocks him and his tattered clothing as he struggles among the weeds, the taste of his own jam bubbling in the back of his throat.

Shadow Milk Cookie can feel the rage surging beneath his dough, but his legs buckle with each attempt to lift his body, and his arms threaten to crumble apart at every slight movement.
Get up, weak link.

The beast pants, staring up at a star spangled sky, silently praying to the glistening moon above. She was partially obscured by clouds tonight, his prayers falling on deaf ears. Even the sweet release of death would be more merciful than the agony he's endured.

He doesn't know how much time passes. Everything seems to sit still, as he becomes painfully aware of every little pinprick of agony in his body. Maybe a cake monster will come along and put him out of his misery. The great Beast Of Deceit, nothing but a weeping pile of dough and jam.
Disgusting. Useless.

Oh great, he's crying now.
Each shuttering breath brings a new wave of pain that rattles his ribcage. He can't even sit up and look around at the location he teleported to. He doesn't care, not anymore.
Weak. It's no wonder Dark Enchantress turned on him. He was of no use to her anymore.

How many times would he do this song and dance until he completely ceased to exist?

Shadow Milk Cookie closes his glassy eyes, biting his already jammy lips as he forces down another sob— Only to find a much more pathetic scream leave his dry throat.
This dying animal, angry at the entirety of Earthbread. It has only ever known cruelty, and now it will know the coldness of death, the second closest thing it would get to the warmth of an embrace.

Darkness seeps around the edges of his vision, suffocating and suppressing his thoughts.
This is it. The curtain call.

Or, so he thinks.

He can hear someone call his name, but he assumes it's just an auditory hallucination induced by the jam loss and intense pain. He becomes mildly aware of footsteps approaching, but he can't muster the energy to respond or open his eyes.

Warmth tucks itself against his cold skin, chasing away the intense pain and dulling it into a more tame ache. He wishes he got a better look at his mysterious savior before being pulled into unconsciousness, lulled asleep by the feeling of arms embracing him, and the slightly more bitter feeling of light magic washing over his open wounds.

-

When Pure Vanilla Cookie saw a strange blue figure thrashing around a field of lilies from his tower’s window, he didn't know what to expect.
An injured cake hound? A miraculously blue sheep? Anything but The Beast Of Deceit.

Deep down, part of him knows what he'd expected, running down the palace stairs to investigate. The pang in his souljam ushered him into urgency, almost tripping over his own robes as he ran out into the field of Lilies beneath the twilight sky.

"SHADOW MILK COOKIE!"
He couldn't hear his own heart pounding in his chest, like a caged bird wanting freedom. He threw himself into the grass beside the beast and gasped in horror as he felt crimson jam beneath his knees, grasping his orchid staff
f with shock.

"Can you hear me? What happened to you?" He gave the other a quick once-over before setting his staff down beside him, and pulling the beast into his lap gingerly, brows knitted with concentration.

"Please don't go." Pure Vanilla Cookie mumbled, brushing a hand over the other's forehead while his other hand cradled their crooked back.

He didn't have to wonder for long on who could've decimated the lying beast, the answer hitting him like the acrid stench of a decaying corpse.
He shook away those bitter thoughts. Now probably isn't the time to think about her.

"It's going to be okay." He brushed a white strand of hair out of Shadow Milk Cookie's face, working his magic around the surface wounds. He just needs to heal him enough to safely bring him inside.

"I'm sorry, Shadow Milk Cookie. I'm... So, So sorry." He could tell the other was unconscious, but he couldn't stop the words from pouring out like the steady drip of a faucet. He hopes it provides some solace, despite the pain he's felt.

Where are your companions? Did they meet a horrible fate, or did they escape as well?

He'd have to figure that out later.

Pure Vanilla Cookie steadily scooped Shadow Milk in his arms, frowning at how light the beast was. When was the last time he had a meal?

All too many concerns were filling the king's brain. He took a deep breath. One step at a time. As he stood, he noticed Shadow Milk Cookie grasping onto something, holding it tightly in his palms even through the depths of unconsciousness.

"Let's get you inside." Pure Vanilla Cookie sighs, making his way back up to the palace. Slowly, as to not stir the slumbering beast curled in his arms.
It was truly a sight to behold-- How comfortably the other snuggled beneath his chin.. But, Pure Vanilla's souljam thrummed with sorrow. He entered the castle, lucky it was so late in the night that hardly anyone was roaming the halls...
Except for Black Raisin Cookie's crows.
The curious little creatures acknowledged the king's entrance, and his undoubtedly questionable guest.
Look what the cat dragged in.

Pure Vanilla Cookie picked up the pace, knowing Black Raisin herself would be coming once her crows relayed their newfound information to her.

He debated taking Shadow Milk Cookie to his own bedroom, but decided the infirmary would be more convenient. His injuries were far too severe to risk not having medical supplies within grabbing range, and he realized leaving a beast unattended in his own bedroom was probably a bad idea.

Black Raisin Cookie arrived almost on queue, opening the infirmary door with a skeptical scowl on her face only a few minutes after Pure Vanilla Cookie settled the unconscious beast Into a bed.
The king was sitting on the edge of the bed, continuing to work on healing their cracked dough.

"..."
Black Raisin Cookie did not need to give voice to her concerns before Pure Vanilla Cookie spoke.

"He was in the field of lilies. I don't know what happened to him."

Even with his back facing her, Black Raisin could hear the worry in his tone. She could imagine the frown on his unseen face.

"How do you know it's not a trick?" She scoffs, entering the room and closing the door behind herself. It was better if this was kept private.

"He wouldn't---" Pure Vanilla paused, considered. " He wouldn't stoop this low. His... Souljam..." His voice trailed off as his gaze trailed over to the shattered pieces of Shadow Milk Cookie's souljam that he found tightly grasped in the beast's palms, which were now resting on a bedside table.

Black Raisin Cookie's eyes widened as the gravity of the statement settled on her shoulders.
For a long while, neither of them spoke, letting the hum of magic fill in the silence.

"What are you going to do with him?" Black Raisin finally asks, sitting in an armchair in the corner of the dimly lit room.
"..I.. I will let him stay. I will nurse him back to health, and.." Pure Vanilla Cookie's frown grew. "Ask him what Dark Enchantress Cookie did to him, and why."

"I'm assuming this... Band of minions isn't around?" Black Raisin vaguely recalls Pure Vanilla Cookie mentioning the two from his time in the spire, but she notices they are nowhere to be seen. "Do you think they...?"

"I don't know." Pure Vanilla Cookie sighs, steadily raising one of Shadow Milk Cookie's arms and examining the damage. "They weren't there with Shadow Milk Cookie, so I'm assuming they got separated at some point."

"Hm.." Black Raisin Cookie made a face.... Her 'thinking face' as Pure Vanilla liked to call it. "I guess I'll let you work, then." She stands, placing her hand on her hip. "And I'll bring you something from the kitchens. I know you skipped dinner." She spoke pointedly, like a parent catching a child red-handed.

Pure Vanilla Cookie only nodded, too engrossed in his own thoughts to swell on the scowl she shot him from across the room.

Black Raisin Cookie sighs, and begins her walk to the kitchens to retrieve a tray of food.

Dawn brings birdsong, warm sunlight that filters into the infirmary through large windows, and a splitting headache that makes Shadow Milk cookie feel as if his head is being split down the middle. Which, to be fair, it may as well have been. He hissed, raising a sore arm to palm at his temples drowsily. He hardly had time to realize he wasn’t outside, and it took him even longer to realize that he should’ve been outside.. Right? Was it all a bad dream?

He squints as he strains his eyes, scanning the room. The scent of vanilla and waffle cone decorations hurls a horrifying realization at Shadow Milk Cookie. He’s in the Vanilla Kingdom. And much to his dismay, he can still spot his shattered souljam sitting on the bedside table. It wasn’t a dream.
He needs to get out of here and…
And what?
What would he do if he left? Go fight Dark Enchantress Cookie? She already won. She’d finish what she started, if she found out he survived.
Against his better judgement, and his ego, this was probably the best place to be… Even though that annoying gnat with the oversized hat would definitely be breathing down his back soon.
Speaking of gnat, where was Pure Vanilla cookie?

Shadow Milk Cookie grumbles to himself, struggling to sit upright in the bed. It’s chilly… A stark contrast to the warmth he felt last night. He wants it back.
The beast awkwardly shuffles out of bed, grabbing the bedside table as his legs threaten to give out beneath him. He realizes (much to his dismay), his clothes have also been changed, replaced with a tidy white gown that smelled like fresh laundry.
Too bright. Hideous. Not enough flare. Where’s the blue?
The beast grumbled, idly itching the scars that trailed his forearm. They weren’t wrapped on account of them not being recent or open, but at this rate he may as well– Wait, had Pure Vanilla Cookie seen him naked?
His cheeks flushed at that thought, and he annoyingly also felt a bit embarrassed at what the other might’ve said about him. Whatever. Why should he care about that faker’s opinion?

He grabbed the scratchy cloth blanket from the bed and draped it over himself like a cloak to protect his fragile body from the cold before meandering over to the infirmary door and shuffling into the halls. His legs continued to threaten him, and within a few minutes of walking so did his own spine betray him with shooting pains. He occasionally growled at his own hair, which felt heavier and droopier than usual. No doubt a side effect of the shattered Souljam sitting on the countertop.
Pull yourself together. You’re the beast of deceit.

Shadow Milk Cookie doesn’t have much time to finish his prep talk, as his legs begin trembling before he can even make it halfway down the hallway. He stumbles, clawing at the wall for stability. He definitely looks like a fawn learning to walk right now, which is unfortunate considering he can hear the tapping of Pure Vanilla’s staff approach from the opposite side of the hall.
During his time in the spire, he learned to recognize the sound. He knew Truthless Recluse was nearby, and the sound once filled him with a giddy joy he couldn’t understand.
But right now, he wanted to turn around and tear those hideous gilded robes to shreds.

The tapping sound increased in speed as Pure Vanilla Cookie hurried over to the stumbling beast, reaching out a hand to sturdy him. Always, Always, reaching out a hand to this monster.
Shadow Milk Cookie grimaced, leaning away from the hand and attempting to continue with his clumsy strides. “Go away.”
He didn’t want to be perceived like this, especially not by that frowning fool.

“You’re injured. You should be resting.” Pure Vanilla Cookie did not listen, stepping in front of the jester to block his path. “Where are you going? If you need something, I’ll be happy to get it for you, Shadow Milk Cookie.”

“You–” He hardly finished his sentence before a sudden, skull-splitting pain erupted from his back. He doubled over, the eyes in his hear turning from offended crescents to pleading blobs of impossible tearful patheticness. Not even a newborn kitten could achieve this, he believes, as he claws at his own stomach. He feels feverish. His head is spinning. His back hurts. It all hurts. Everything, all at once. He doesn’t notice Pure Vanilla crouches beside him.

The pain begins to subside into a dull ache, and he realizes he’d been panting. He could hardly breathe. He was exhausted… But, he was also warm. He can feel the light magic working beneath his skin, ebbing away the agony.
Shadow Milk Cookie has nothing left to lose, not even his dignity.. Which is why, for now, he allows himself to curl into the king’s warm embrace. He allows himself to believe the lie, even for a few moments, that Pure Vanilla Cookie cares about him. Because if he doesn’t, he may fall apart right here on the floors of the Vanilla Castle, and he’d rather die anywhere else.

Is that it? Or is it something else?

“There, There.” He hears Pure Vanilla Cookie coax as he buries his face into impossibly bright robes, closing his eyes. He holds the scratchy infirmary blanket tighter. It feels… Nice. He can almost forget the events that lead him here… Almost.

“Shadow Milk Cookie, are you still awake?” Pure Vanilla finally asks after a few moments of silence, absently running a hand along Shadow Milk Cookie’s hair as if he were a resting cat.
The beast only makes a sound of acknowledgement. Words are too hard right now.

“Mm.. I apologize for not being there when you awoke.” He, stupidly, sighs with remorse. What an idiot. Why is he sorry?
“I know it’s not a very comfortable room..I just didn’t want to move you while you were resting… And, I was afraid you wouldn’t make it.”

“I wasn’t out for that long.” Shadow Milk Cookie grumbled, unable to stop the snarky remarks. They just came naturally. “You worry too much. And, the floor is hard.”

Pure Vanilla Cookie huffed with amusement, scooping the shorter cookie into his arms as if he were merely a bag of feathers. “You were asleep for five days.. But, your hair is excellent company.”

Shadow Milk Cookie blinked a few times, taking a moment to register the gesture. His unusually foggy brain left him with no quips or comebacks, instead he clicked his tongue and crossed his arms sassily. “Well.. Maybe you’re just a terrible healer.”

Pure Vanilla’s brow furrowed with an expression Shadow Milk Cookie could not identify. “Sorry..” He mumbles.

“Stop apologizing. Seriously, Nilly! You’re getting all soggy over nothing.” Shadow Milk Cookie’s Cheshire grin returns as he occupies himself by poking at the ancient’s face. In the short stretch of silence, he took a moment to admire how Pure Vanilla Cookie managed to balance his staff in the crook of his elbow as he carried the other. Maybe he had to carry injured cookies often.

The king simply smiles. It’s a sad smile, one the former Fount knew entirely too well.

It’s not long before Shadow Milk Cookie is being placed back on his bed in the infirmary, and Pure Vanilla is taking a seat in a wooden stool adjacent to it with a sigh.

“Are you hungry? I could get you something to eat.” The healer offers. It’s strange. He doesn’t question where Shadow Milk Cookie came from. He doesn’t berate him for being weak or stupid. He doesn’t interrogate him, though he knows he will have to ask questions eventually. The chaos seems to come to a standstill in Pure Vanilla Cookie’s presence.

“I don’t need food.” Shadow Milk finally retorts, laying back down on the scratchy mattress. “I want a softer bed.”
“The food would help you recover faster.. When’s the last time you’ve eaten?” Pure Vanilla Cookie hums thoughtfully. “And.. I suppose we could stop by your new room, if you’d let me feed you.”

Shadow Milk Cookie considered.. Maybe the new room would be warmer. But did he really want to bother with the hassle of consuming sustenance? Especially from the likes of that glowing imbecile?

Pure Vanilla Cookie waits patiently for an answer, his neutral smile returning.

“Fine.” Shadow Milk Cookie Groans. “But you’re carrying me.”
“Oh, I don’t mind at all!” Pure Vanilla’s smile seems to grow as he eagerly stands, propping his staff against a countertop before holding out his arms for Shadow Milk. Freak.

Shadow Milk bit back yet another remark as he pitifully crawled into Pure Vanilla’s warm arms, and nestled in. It was warmer and more welcoming than he’d ever admit out loud, but his traitorous hair seemed to get the point across as it gave the taller cookie woobified looks of adoration.
The Vanilla Beholder caught a brief glance at the sight, but the king chose not to comment on it as he meandered back out into the halls, making his way to the guest room he had prepared for Shadow milk Cookie.

“I’ll let you get cozy, then I can just bring the food upstairs I suppose…” Pure Vanilla announces, navigating the halls with ease.
Shadow Milk Cookie examines him silently. He notices the way the other’s shoulders tense with strain, and the small bags forming under their eyes. Their golden hair is unkempt, almost shockingly so. This idiot was being run ragged by his duties, and he probably just let people walk all over him. He was too forgiving for his own good.

“Whatever.” He finally responds after a few moments, nearly forgetting what the other stated in the midst of his analyzing.
It wasn’t long before the two reached the room. It was brighter than he would’ve liked, but at least it was a bit warmer than the infirmary. He thought he’d have to start terrorizing servants to get a decent pillow in this place.
Pure Vanilla Cookie placed the beast onto the bed with a sigh, and quickly turned to retrieve the promised snacks from the kitchen.

In the meantime, Shadow Milk Cookie sprawled out among the white silk sheets, taking a moment to really get comfortable as he twisted his sore body like a lazy feline basking in the sun. Speaking of the sun, he’d have to make sure to complain about how much sunlight those absurdly massive windows allowed into the room. It was practically blinding him.
At some point in this cozy endeavor, he must’ve dozed off. He’s awoken by gentle taps on his shoulder, and greeted by the smell of food that actually seems pretty appetizing. He’s almost impressed, as he sits up and rubs at his eyelashes, blinking the drowsiness away.

“I brought you jelly soup…” The familiar vanilla ancient smiled. His smile is so radiant, Shadow Milk cookie almost smiles back. He bites the inside of his cheek, prohibiting such follies.
“If it’s not to your liking, I could always just get you something else.” He picks up the silver tray from its place on the nightstand and moves it onto Shadow Milk Cookie’s lap.

Before he eats, he examines the soup carefully. Poking it at it with silverware, sniffing its contents.. Pure Vanilla is unlikely to poison him, but just in case…
Finally, he begins eating. He’d forgotten how nice it felt to taste food. It wasn’t something he got to experience often, especially not as the Fount. The Fount. He’d been on his mind a lot lately. He’d have to do something about that.

“Boooooring.” Shadow Milk Cookie states abruptly, despite shoveling soup into his mouth as if it might be his last meal. “Where’s the arsenic? I was expecting more of a bang.”
Pure Vanilla chuckles, moving to sit at the end of the bed.

“HEY! No! No outside clothes on MY bed!” Shadow Milk Cookie hissed so fervently, it made the ancient jump to his feet.
“Ah– My apologies–” He hums, looking around the room. He decides to sit on a small, circular ottoman instead. “Now.. I know it isnt the best time to ask, but..”

Oh, here it comes.

“ What.. Happened to you?” Pure Vanilla Cookie fidgeted with his hands, brows knitted together with concentration. “You don’t need to answer, but it would be nice to know.”

“...” Shadow Milk Contemplates… rolling a few explanations over in his head. “Well y’know.. Showbiz isn’t for the weak!” He winks, putting on that extravagant performer persona, as much as he could without straining his body. “A minor disagreement.. I mean, it happens. Not everyone appreciates a star when they see one.”

Pure Vanilla simply nods along, a thoughtful expression on his face. “I see… Well, where are your little companions, if you don’t mind me asking?”

Shadow Milk stilled. He had completely forgotten about them– How could he have forgotten about them?
His stomach twists into something guilty, like storm clouds gathering before a storm. He abruptly moves the tray aside on the mattress and attempts to stand. He doesn’t know what he’s going to do– He can’t even walk. “I need–” He stumbles, claws catching on the nightstand as he hits the ground.

“Shadow Milk Cookie!” Pure Vanilla squeaks, moving over to the source of the sound of a body hitting the floor. He feels around the hunched form to secure him. “Take it easy, please.. What’s going on? Please, be honest with me.”

“I don’t know where they are– I need to find them!” He grabs onto Pure Vanilla’s robes. He remembers now. That’s why he left the infirmary. “She–” The beast trails off, fatigue coming to claim him once more. He’s so, so scared.

“You can hardly walk.. You have no magic– What are you going to do for them? I can’t let you go.” Pure Vanilla can hear the panic in the other’s voice, lifting them back onto the mattress. “I know you’re worried for them, but if you got away, maybe they did too?” He places his hands on Shadow milk Cookie’s shoulders, ushering him back down to the sheets. “I won’t let you get yourself killed.. Maybe after we repair your souljam, I can help you look for them.”

Shadow Milk Cookie didn’t understand what he did to deserve such kindness. It made the taste of bile sting the back of his throat as if it were venom waiting to be unleashed. He didn’t even realize he was still clinging to the other’s warm white robes, and he forced himself to let go.

“I’m sorry there’s not much I can do immediately.. I can ask Black Raisin to keep an eye out for them, though.” Pure Vanilla Cookie reassures softly, as if raising his voice might shatter Shadow Milk into a million pieces.

All Shadow Milk Cookie can do is nod. He’s practically shaking with grief and rage, but Pure Vanilla seems to dull the effects of that, gentle hands running along his back and shoulders. They sit in this comfortable silence for a while, before Pure Vanilla withdraws, and takes his warmth with him.

“I’ll be back in the morning, alright?” It was getting late, and he still had things to attend to before going to bed. He was a very busy cookie, unlike the blue bum occupying the mattress in front of him.

Pure Vanilla cookie felt around the sheets for a brief second before finally finding the tray, and leaving the room.

Shadow Milk Cookie was grateful his door was closed. Nobody can hear him turn over and sob.
Crying felt good, after not allowing himself to indulge in it for witches knows how long. He has to clutch at his side from the continuously present aches and pains that come with each heaving breath. When he wasn't clawing at his new white robes, he was sinking his claws into now soggy pillows or wiping at his tear-stained face.

It had all come crashing down, hadn’t it? And to think this all started with the pursuit of a better life? Was such a thing even possible now?
The image of Pure Vanilla appeared in his head, like a nightlight in a dark room.

He wants to believe it's possible, even if this is all a lie. He wants to believe it’s all going to be okay, even if he knows it won't be. He wants to believe he’d even be worthy of such compassion, such warmth.. Even if he’s a monster.

The sobbing devolves into quiet sniffles and the occasional cough, and eventually his exhausted mind gives in to sleep, eyelids sticky with crust and dried tears.
Even in his dreams, he is pursued by haunting wine-dark thoughts that seek to swallow him whole. The beast knows no rest, only his own cruelty, and the quiet promise of a blooming sunflower in an otherwise wilted field of flowers.

Pure Vanilla Cookie doesn’t know what time it is when he’s awoken by unruly sounds in the room beside him. All he knows, based on the fact that the birds had not yet come chirping on his balcony, is that the sun hasn’t risen yet.
He grabs his staff on his bedside, and uses his free hand to rub at his aching souljam. It’d been aching for a while– Ever since Shadow Milk Cookie appeared a few nights ago, in fact.

The king was at least a little grateful for the distraction, obvious concerns aside as he shuffles across the room and to the door. His dreams were not very kind to him, plaguing him with thoughts of the blue jester that slept just a wall away. He’d forgiven the beast for what transpired at the spire, but that didn’t mean he’d ever forget about it. Nevertheless, the other’s presence left an odd warmth fluttering around in his chest. He chose to ignore it, taking the short trip through the grand halls and raising a hand to gently knock on the door.

There’s another thud, but no definite response.

“Shadow Milk cookie?” Pure Vanilla Cookie stifled a yawn, placing a hand on the doorknob. He usually wasn’t one to intrude on other’s privacy, but he also didn’t want to risk ignoring a health emergency.
He waited a few more heartbeats before gently pushing open the door, brow furrowing as an eerie creak filled out the silence.

He’s at least a little grateful his sleep was disturbed.
The first thing he noticed was the empty bed, the sheets sprawled along the floors, and the noticeable crimson jam that had been smeared across the mattress.

The second thing he notices is the absence of a certain blue jester.

Pure Vanilla Cookie stepped into the room, shutting the door behind himself as he approached the grizzly scene. His heart is hammering in his chest, a million possible thoughts racing through his head. Where was Shadow Milk cookie?

That question didn’t take very long to answer, as he quickly noticed the flailing beast on the ground, tearing at a pillow in what seemed to be a dream-induced rage. Shadow Milk Cookie was still asleep, completely unaware of the destruction he caused to the room and to himself.

He’s growling, fangs beared at a foe Pure Vanilla Cookie could not see. His claws shred the poor innocent pillow with purpose– As if it had done him several lifetimes worth of wrongdoings. He’d reopened some of his wounds in this frenzy, but he didn’t seem to care. He fought with such vigor, Pure Vanilla Cookie had to think for a moment what the best way to approach the sleeping cookie might be.

Eventually, he propped his staff properly against the wall and crouched down next to Shadow Milk Cookie before cautiously wrapping his ams around them, securing them in a warm embrace.
“Shadow Milk Cookie, it’s just a dream.” He reassured, one arm around the beast’s waist and the other attempting to grab his arms. “You need to calm down, you’re reopening your wounds.”

These words hardly reached the dark, impenetrable place that was the confines of Shadow Milk Cookie’s dreams.
In his eyes, he was being dragged into a silver tree by gnarled roots. No matter how much kicking or scratching he did, the roots simply tightened their hold and brought him closer to the empty chasm. He can’t go back. He won’t go back. Somewhere, in the distance, he can hear cackling.
She preyed on his demise. Dark Enchantress— No– White Lily Cookie?
It was all getting blurred together in his head, the broken bodies of Candy Apple Cookie and Black Sapphire Cookie flashed in front of him as cruel reminders of all that had been taken from him.
He’d plunged into the darkness of the tree. It suffocates him. It’s cold. It’s empty. He cant feel his legs. He can’t breathe. He needs to get out. Out. OUT!!!

Shadow Milk Cookie opens his eyes, gasping for air as if he’d been drowning. He can feel soft, silk robes against his skin and gentle hands holding his arms firmly. He can taste jam, and a more aware glance around makes him realize it was all over the sheets he’d discarded. His body shrieks with pain as if he’d been running a marathon, drenched in sweat and panting as if every breath might be his last.

“You’re awake…”

The voice startled him, and he spun around to see the radiant ancient sitting directly behind him, cradling him. How pathetic.

Pure Vanilla only sighed with relief, hair unkempt. His white nightly robes were now stained with jam, and shadow Milk Cookie becomes embarrassingly aware that he’d probably been held like this for a while.

“So touchy! You can hardly keep your hands off of me.” Shadow Milk deflects with a grumble, running a hand over his unruly hair. “Anyways, did you neeeeed something, nilly? I’m kind of busy.”

Pure Vanilla Cookie doesn’t respond to the comments, instead focusing on re-sealing the open wounds. “Mmm.. You were having a nightmare.” He hums thoughtfully. Not judging or scolding, just gently concerned for the other’s wellbeing.

Shadow Milk Cookie’s heart skipped a beat. He could pass out right here and save himself the loss of dignity, but that wouldn’t be any fun. “Whaatever.” He drawls, averting his eyes.

“I could move you to my bed, for tonight.. I want to keep an eye on you and your bed is currently…” His staff looks over to the ruined mattress. “A bit worse for wear.”

“In your bed? Take me out to dinner, first!” Shadow Milk exclaimed dramatically, wincing as he attempted to strike a pose and was immediately reminded he’s two and a half steps away from crumbling. “Fine.. FIIINE!” He groaned, dragging his hands across his face. Could this get any worse?

“Just keep your hands off me, pal!”

Pure Vanilla Cookie only chuckles, lifting the jester as he stands. “My apologies if i gave you that impression..” The grin on his face says anything other than ‘sorry’.

Moron.

Chapter Text

“Actually, I changed my mind. Can we play chess instead?”

Shadow Milk Cookie sat with his legs crossed on Pure Vanilla Cookie’s oddly warm mattress, ignoring the exhaustion tugging at his eyes.

“You need rest to heal, and I have a busy day tomorrow…” Pure Vanilla Cookie yawned, standing in front of his wardrobe as he picked out a new night gown to change into. He didn’t want to sleep in bloody robes.

“Booooooring.” The jester drawled, his back hitting vanilla-scented sheets as he flopped dramatically. “You’re a terrible host, Nilly. Did you know that? We don’t even really need to sleep.”

“Apologies.. We can play tomorrow at lunch, perhaps? And.. Sleep is good for you, Shadow Milk Cookie.” Pure Vanilla undressed, which made Shadow Milk’s face flush a dark blue.
It was still strange, seeing his other half… bare. The familiar freckles that trailed tan shoulders practically winked at him as his slitted pupils trailed down the king’s back, arms. He noticed how thin he was, and the strange lines that trailed his–

Stop.
Shadow Milk Cookie looked away. Why was he flushing? It’s not like he hasn’t seen Pure Vanilla Cookie naked before.

Back in the spire, Truthless Recluse had let him… examine his dough. He was still warm, despite how cold his glare was as his claws traced over exposed arms. That was the first time he saw them, the scars. He didn’t know Pure Vanilla Cookie would still have them– A permanent reminder.
He can hear his own heart beating in his chest. Just thinking about those rather intimate moments left him feeling oddly breathless.

The feeling of an additional weight being added to the other side of the bed tore him away from his thoughts. The warmth that radiated from the other was tempting him like a moth to a lamp. He bit his tongue. He resisted, going silent and hoping the other would assume he was asleep.

Pure Vanilla Cookie smiled fondly in the beast’s direction, getting cozy under the blankets. They were hardly a foot apart now. “Goodnight.” The ancient murmurs, resting his head upon the pillows.

Shadow Milk Cookie doesn’t return the sentiment, instead staring up at the ceiling. He listened to his other half’s heartbeat, waiting for his breaths to even out as a sign he was deep within the reaches of sleep.
He sat up, wincing as his aching body seemed to yearn for the sheets. He shuffled a bit closer to the sleeping blonde, and paused before leaning in to examine the marks that trailed up their arms.
He usually wasn’t so nosy, but it concerned– No– Intrigued him. He wouldn’t be caught dead admitting he was worried about the theif of his souljam. He trails a hand along their wrists, a frown tugging at his face.
At the other’s breath hitches, he places a hand on the other side of their chest so he could lean in close to listen. He can hear Pure Vanilla’s breathing, and all the invisible activity that happens within a cookie’s body, including the quiet hum of magic. It’s like gentle ocean waves, or the quiet thrum of rain hitting the windows during a nighttime storm.

His string of thoughts is interrupted as Pure Vanilla stirs, and his arms suddenly come up to hold Shadow Milk Cookie to his chest. It erupts a violent jerk from the jester, startled… But he doesn’t move, eyes wide with shock. It’s unnerving how their bodies fit together like puzzle pieces. How he’s unable to do anything but give into the beckoning snuggle, his limbs instinctively wrapping around Pure Vanilla’s slumbering body. How his eyes begin to close, believing he will finally know what it means to have a peaceful rest as long as the other is present. It’s safe, infuriatingly so.

Is this what he’d been missing out on? He feels a bit like a fool.
He cannot stop the purr that reverberates through him.

“Mmm.. Kitty.” The king mumbles in his sleep and lifts one of his hands to stroke at Shadow Milk Cookie’s unruly hair. The eyes blink at his gentle fingers, critical and curious.

Okay, nevermind. Shadow Milk Cookie hates him and wants to crush this entire kingdom into crumbs.
.. But, maybe tomorrow. He wants to enjoy this a little longer.

Sleep claims him like a cotton blanket of darkness, tucking him away from the worries of the world. Not even the Fount of Knowledge had known such comfort.

The morning sun brought an unpleasant light that shined through the windows, and directly into Shadow Milk Cookie’s eyes. He bared his teeth at the dastardly star, and buried his face into the warmth of the body beneath him, forcing himself into the safety of the other’s overgrown sleeves.

Wait, body?

Pure Vanilla Cookie was still here, hands rested comfortingly on Shadow Milk Cookie’s back and head. He realized they’d both been tucked in more neatly than Shadow Milk was the previous night, meaning the idiot laying beneath him must’ve moved the blankets after the jester fell asleep. The king’s soft smile grew into a welcoming grin.

“Are you awake, bluebird?”

Bluebird.
Shadow Milk Cookie swallowed hard, eyes wide with shock as he stared up at the taller. Seriously, pet names?
His claws gripped the other’s white gown as he mustered an offending growl. It only got a soft giggle from Pure Vanilla Cookie. Annoying, infuriating.

“It’s time to start the day .. I’d hate to leave you, but there are important things that need my attention.” He finally released the beast from his hold, moving to sit up as he reached for his staff. “How did you sleep?”

“Horrible.” Shadow Milk Cookie complained, quickly shuffling away from Pure Vanilla Cookie, examining his own skin as if the other had germs. “You grabbed me, y’know! What’d I say about getting touchy? You have no class.”

“Mmm..” Pure Vanilla Cookie simply hummed, a thoughtful hand on his chin.

“Hey! Are you even listening?” The jester snapped his fingers, scowling. “For a king, you’re terribly promiscuous.”

“I’m listening.” Pure Vanilla Cookie stands, shuffling over to the bathroom to freshen up. “But if you didn’t want me to hold you, I don’t think you would’ve purred at it..”

Shadow Milk Cookie froze at the statement, gawking open-mouthed. He heard that?
“... Whatever! Don’t get cheeky.” He rubs his flushed cheeks, turning away with a few cursing grumbles. “What do you plan on doing about my broken souljam?”

He changes the subject, finally addressing what he feels the two have ignored during his short stay.

Pure Vanilla Cookie sighs, pausing his journey to the bathroom. “I’ll need to speak with a few experts on the matter.. I’m sure there’s a way to repair it. I promise, I’ll help you.”

Empty promises. Shadow Milk Cookie rolls his eyes. “Sure, Sure. None of this would’ve ever happened if that stupid fairy hadn’t gone to the Witches’ Banquet.” He can see Pure Vanilla wince out of the corner of his eye.

“White Lil—”

“Don’t lie to me. You know I’m right. I always am.” Shadow Milk Cookie spat. His words had venom, and a slither of truth. But that doesn’t mean they were right, or needed.

Pure Vanilla Cookie pinched the bridge of his nose, his patient expression faltering even if only for a moment. “Please, refrain from speaking of her in such a light. This won’t help you get your magic back, nor will it bring back your minions.” The moment it left his mouth, he regretted adding that final part of his statement. He truthfully didn’t mean it malevolently, but he can tell by the way Shadow Milk’s hackles raise that it wasn’t welcome.

“... I didn’t mean it like that, I’m sorry.”

“Liar.” Shadow Milk Cookie snarled, his mismatched eyes narrowed into furious slits. He wished he could teleport away right now, or turn into a wolf and bite that stupid fool’s head off. Instead, he grabs the discarded blanket on the bed and curls it around his body with a dramatic wave, shielding himself from view.
He can hear Pure Vanilla Cookie resume his morning routine after a few beats of silence. He refuses to even look in the other’s direction.

“I’ll be back for lunch.” Pure Vanilla Cookie croaks before leaving the room, shutting the door on the way out.
It doesn’t take very long for Shadow Milk Cookie to get bored, letting his thoughts wander. What did that senile cookie do all day? It was clear, based on his usually unkept hair and thin torso, that he was a busy man. Busy doing what? Smiling and waving? Being kind to people? Bleh. Where’s the fun in that?

Even though he doesn’t have magic, he can surely find other ways to cause trouble. It’ll take his mind off of .. More pressing issues.

He unrolled himself from the brooding blanket cocoon, and tossed his legs over the edge of the bed. The only thing standing between him and a world of mischief was his unfortunately innate walking skills. Curse this flimsy body. Curse these slippery floors. And most of all, curse that stupid Pure Vanilla Cookie for putting him through this world of embarrassment instead of just letting him die in that field of lilies.

He pushed off of the mattress, testing the waters before going off into the deep end. His legs ached slightly less than they did yesterday, thankfully. With a few wobbly steps, he was standing at the door, and exiting the room.

The halls were lit with morning sun, leaving a peaceful glow over the palace. Being forced to slow down and take breaks every few minutes gave Shadow Milk Cookie the opportunity to really appreciate the palace’s architecture, especially the stained glass windows. The colorful glass cast fractals of vibrant light over the walls.

Servants seem to duck away from the beast and avoid him whenever they come across his path, even though he isn’t exactly in the position to torment them right now. It made his chest ache with a familiar feeling he really didn’t want to think about right now.

By the time he stumbles upon Pure Vanilla Cookie, it’s approaching noon. He may or may not have gotten sidetracked after raiding the kitchen and stealing a few plates of food off of the countertops. And one of said plates may or may not be in his hands right now. He has to hand it to the chefs, this chocolate cake is pretty damned good.

Pure Vanilla Cookie is in his gardens, tending to his flowers. He moves so, so SO slowly.
Shadow Milk Cookie hides behind a hedge, eating the last of his stolen dessert as he observes… and tries not to fall asleep watching. It’s hot, and Pure Vanilla Cookie is just about as interesting as watching paint dry.
He wishes he could turn all the flowers in this garden into rabbits, or make them miraculously blue. But.. He can do none of those things. So instead, he waits for an opportunity.

He must’ve dozed off at some point, because he realizes now that Pure Vanilla cookie is conversing with someone that wasn’t there before. She’s got black hair, a satchel, and a cloak that compliments her hair. He shakes off the sleep, trying to focus on listening in on their conversation. Juicy gossip? Nefarious schemes?

He cant hear much of the conversation, but the words ‘Ancients’ , ‘Visit’, and ‘Beast’ sort-of give him some context… and causes a rather unpleasant feeling of foreboding to stir in the back of his mind.

Shadow Milk Cookie tries to ignore the odd crow that seems to be staring at him with the intelligence of a cookie. The crow hops closer, and the little bastard pecks his knee.
He hisses a hushed whisper, swatting at the crow. “Go away, fiend! Can’t you see I’m busy?”

The crow squeaks, and flutters over to the dark cloaked cookie. Her gaze snaps over to the hedge the beast is hidden (poorly) behind. She says something Shadow Milk Cookie didn’t quite catch before both she and Pure Vanilla Cookie begin closing the distance, approaching his hiding place.

Seriously? Did the crow just TATTLE on him?

Shadow Milk Cookie shakily stands up, crossing his arms with a pout. “Well, Well, Well! Nilllyyy, you didn’t tell me you had a little friend!” He grins, all teeth.

“Ah, yes! This is Black Raisin Cookie.” Pure Vanilla Cookie smiles fondly at his companion. “She was just delivering a message from my other friends.”
Black Raisin Cookie squints at the jester, giving him a judgemental once-over. “Beast.”

“Was that your rude crow? Y’know, you ought to train that thing. It bit me!” Shadow Milk Cookie tsked, waving a finger at her as if he were scolding a child.

“Well.. You aren’t really supposed to be here, are you? Otherwise, you wouldn’t be eavesdropping.” Black Raisin retorts hotly, crossing her arms back at the beast. Checkmate.

“Fine, you caught me! Lock me away for loving a little gossip! It’s just sooooo stuffy in that bed of yours, Pure Vanilla Cookie.” He smirks, placing a hand on his forehead as if he were going to faint. “Oh, I miss feeling your warmth beside me in the sheets~”

Pure Vanilla Cookie can feel the heat rising in his cheeks as he looks between Black Raisin Cookie’s raised eye brow and Shadow Milk Cookie’s knowing smile.
“My….” He clears his throat, turning his red face away from view. “.. I’m– Sorry… ? Maybe we can go to the markets…. I’m sure you’d find that entertaining.”

“Your bed?” Black Raising Cookie’s brow raises impossibly higher. She is not amused.

“Anyways, don’t be shy. Why don’t you let me in on your little secret message. I simply HATE being left out of the joke!” Shadow Milk Cookie folds his arms behind his back. He knows they’re keeping things from him, and it’s making him quite literally seethe.

“My…. Friends.. And I have been exchanging letters since the night I found you.” Pure Vanilla Cookie sighs, the grip on his staff tightening. “They believe now would be an opportunity to… imprison and interrogate you, but I believe there is a much more civil way for them to get information they want. They will be arriving soon to assess you themselves.” His fingers run up and down along the handle of his staff, anxious.

They’re going to seal me.

It was almost as if Pure Vanilla Cookie could hear his thoughts, because the next thing he says is, “Don’t worry. I won’t let them seal you again.. And– I won’t leave you alone with them. They don’t approve of my choices–”

Black Raisin grunts.

“-- But I believe you are.. Worthy of compassion and kindness.” He tries not to use any words he knows will set the beast off, even though its not like Shadow Milk Cookie can teleport away or kill anyone right now. He just wants him to know he’s safe.

Shadow Milk Cookie’s face contorts into a mix of anger… And fear. “You think your petty words will sway those bumbling fools from their real goal? They may say they’re coming to assess me, but you and I both know what they’re going to do. They’re coming to finish what Dark Enchantress Cookie started. Why else should they keep me around? I’m a beast. I’m dangerous. You’re an idiot for keeping me around.”

“Shadow Milk Cookie.. You know none of that is true.” Pure Vanilla Cookie takes a step forward. The beast takes a step back.

“For someone who’s so hellbent on telling the truth, you sure know how to spin a good lie.” Shadow Milk Cookie scoffs. He doesn’t want to go back into the tree. The vision of the tight, gnarled roots flashes in his mind again.

“It’s not a lie.” Pure Vanilla Cookie frowns, holding out a hand. Just like he did in the spire. When he tricked you. “I solemnly swear it. It will all be okay. You’re my friend, and I’d defend my friends with my life.”

“They’ll kill me. They’ll hate you.” He growls, feeling as though he’s backed into a corner. “But I suppose I don’t have a choice but to accept it, do I?”

He catches Black Raisin Cookie’s softening expression. Was it pity, or guilt for what’s to come?

Pure Vanilla Cookie doesn’t wait for Shadow Milk to take his hand, pulling the other into a tight hug once he realized they were close to sprinting away. He wouldn’t get very far, but Pure Vanilla Cookie preferred if he didn’t have to heal scraped knees. He was already tight for energy, as is.

Shadow Milk Cookie took the hug with a furious grunt, balling up his fists as he refused to reciprocate the affection. He has no choice but to stick around, even if he knows it’ll lead to his demise. He fought so hard for his freedom. It’s not fair. It’s not fair.
He felt weak. The pains of today’s misadventures was finally weighing on him. He sighed, letting his body fall against Pure Vanilla’s.
The other took in a shark inhale as he felt Shadow Milk Cookie lean into his arms, and had to sturdy himself with his staff. Perhaps they’re both pretty exhausted.

“It’s about lunch time .. Shall I make today up to you with a treat?” Pure Vanilla Cookie gave the other a tired smile. “We can visit the Crow’s Nest Inn. It’s a favorite of mine.. I think you’ll like it, too.”

Shadow Milk Cookie, who was still adorned in a white gown, just groaned. “I don’t even have my clothes .. and I want more of that chocolate cake that’s in the castle’s kitchens.”

“Ah… I’m afraid the cake was supposed to be for the delegates meeting later today.” Pure Vanilla Cookie hums. “But, I’m sure we can find something else suitable for your sweettooth.”

Shadow Milk Cookie sighs dramatically. “You’re torturing me here. What’re you gonna feed me, lentils? Peasant food? I’m a star! I need something extravagant.”

“Okay, okay, my shining star.” The king giggles serenely, much to the jester’s unamusement. Towering buffoon. Another pet name, really? “Let’s see what ‘extravagant’ foods await us in the kitchens.”

Black Raisin Cookie clears her throat. Oh, right. She’s here.
It’s strange.. She feels like she’s intruding on something deeply intimate between the pair, despite all their bickering she knows chemistry when she sees it. She never really felt it herself, but the bond they radiated was unmistakable.
“I guess I’ll be leaving you two, then.”

“Are you sure? You’re welcome to join us, Black Raisin Cookie.”

“Great! Go away, mean crow lady.” Shadow Milk Cookie, in contrast to the ancient’s invitation, blew a raspberry at her.

“I’m sure.” Black Raisin Cookie narrows her eyes at the jester. “Just make sure you remember to check on Strawberry Crepe. It’d be unfortunate if they were to.. Build another bomb.”

Whoever this Strawberry Crepe kid was, they sounded like a whole lot of fun.

Lunch was.. Actually, it was really enjoyable. Suspiciously so. Aside from the gruelling thoughts of what’s to come, the two were sitting on the edge of a fountain in the garden, enjoying jelly sandwiches.

Shadow Milk Cookie had begun noticing a few things about Pure Vanilla, as an artist always has an eye for the little details.
Firstly, Pure Vanilla Cookie was too generous for his own good. When someone bumped into him, or stepped on his painfully long hair, he was the one apologizing instead of the offender. He was a doormat.
Secondly, Pure Vanilla Cookie loves to talk, as Shadow Milk Cookie tunes out his rambles right at this very moment. The other is talking about his favorite flowers, or at least that’s the last talking point he remembers hearing before receding back into his thoughts.
And lastly, the damned guy barely ate.
He offered Shadow Milk Cookie his sandwich. Worried about a creature that doesn’t even need to eat? How pitiful.

“Eat your food.” Shadow Milk Cookie rolls his eyes with visible disdain. “You’re so thin, your ribs rattle when you breathe.”

“You need it more than I do. You’re recovering, still.” His honeyed words did little to soothe the beast’s thinly veiled concern. He hated how soothing and tempting the offer was, how easily Pure Vanilla seemed to slide past his defenses most of the time.
But, not this time.

“But you’re the one being run ragged by pompous politicians and needy plebians.” Shadow Milk Cookie retorted, deciding to leave out one of the reasons of possible exhaustion being himself. He was aware he was an exhausting cookie to deal with, but there was no need to say that out loud.

“I guess that’s true.” Pure Vanilla Cookie sighed, picking up the sandwich and taking a ginger bite from it.

“Don’t get all soggy about it, Nilly!” Shadow Milk Cookie rolled his eyes so hard they probably could’ve rolled out of his head. “You’re acting as if I’m starving.”

“You’re just.. So small.” Pure Vanilla Mumbles, his orchid staff’s eye narrowing at the beast.

“Small? I’m the beast of deceit! And if I could use my magic right now, I could be bigger than you anytime I want.” Shadow Milk Cookie huffs. He looks at the king, then at the fountain.

“Hm.. Sure you can.” He nods with a grin… How daring of him to mock the Great and Powerful Shadow Milk Cookie…He has to teach him a lesson.

Without warning, the jester placed a careless hand on the other’s forehead and simply… shoved him backwards into the fountain.
Pure Vanilla Cookie’s reaction time was far quicker than he expected, as the other grabbed onto Shadow Milk’s white bed robes and pulled him into the fountain as he fell.

“YOU GNAT!” Shadow Milk Cookie wailed on the way down, his voice drowned out by the sound of bodies splashing against water. He flailed against wet fabric, struggling to find his footing. He could hear Pure Vanilla Cookie laughing heartily beside him, clearly amused.

“Now look! I’m all soggy! I’m gonna get sick! You’re a terrible doctor.” Shadow Milk Cookie’s azure hair eyes glowered at the king, staring daggers as he climbed out of the fountain defeatedly. Humiliating.
“You started it. Maybe a little cold would do you good.” Pure Vanilla climbed out after him, robes weighing like curtains against his form. “We need a bath.. And a fresh pair of clothes.”

“Where ARE my clothes? I’m tired of dressing like a clinically insane cookie.” The beast grumbles, wringing out his robes and shaking his hair out like a wet dog.

“At the tailors.. They were quite tattered…” Pure Vanilla Cookie found his staff laying against the ground, after a few moments of feeling around the fountain. “But, I’m sure they’ll be ready by the end of the week.”

“Slowpoke amateur. They better not mess it up, or I’ll burn their shop to the ground.” Shadow Milk Cookie rubs his elbows, becoming aware of a dull ache beginning to seep beneath their dough.
“All will be fine, in due time.” Pure Vanilla Cookie held out a hand for the other to take.. And they did. It was a pleasant feeling, despite the dampness of the fountain water. His souljam seemed to sing with joy as the other allowed themself to be led indoors– Pure Vanilla Cookie liked when Shadow Milk Cookie trusted him. When he confided in him for comfort and healing..

When the other simply glanced in his direction, he could feel his pulse quicken. Not out of fear, but out of yearning. He hoped the other cookie enjoyed his presence as much as Pure Vanilla did his.
He knew Shadow Milk Cookie’s past would hinder chances at a healthy friendship, but he will always keep his arms open, no matter how many times the beast bit or scratched him. No matter how many times he pulled on his heartstrings.
Because he understood that when he did these things, it was Shadow Milk Cookie’s way of communicating that he was hurting and afraid.

The couple of cookies retreated back to Pure Vanilla’s bedroom, picking up a pair of towels from the housekeeping cookie they passed on the way there.
She happily obliged the request, despite the visibly confused expression on her face as she saw Pure Vanilla Cookie carrying a seemingly docile beast in his arms as if it were a casual occurrence.

Shadow Milk Cookie felt as if Pure Vanilla had gotten… Too comfortable.

Sure, they slept in the same bed.. And he may or may not have curled up in the other’s arms once or twice, but he couldn’t believe the ancient was just so… Casual… about being naked in front of the jester.
Behind the safety of the bedroom’s closed doors, Pure Vanilla Cookie set his souljam brooch on the nightstand and immediately shook off his outer robes after propping his staff against the wall.
The two were still dripping wet. Not even the sun had dried their drenched clothes, so naturally they’d need to be changed.

Shadow Milk Cookie, however, could not stop the pathetic sound that escaped him as Pure vanilla cookie began pulling off his own robes as if this were a casual routine for them.. It should’ve been, but bareness was never something Shadow Milk Cookie was comfortable with.

“Keep your clothes on, freak!” Shadow Milk Cookie choked out, feeling oddly breathless. The other wasn’t even completely naked yet, only stripped down to the white bodysuit he wore underneath his gilded robes.

“Ah– Sorry– I just thought you wouldn’t mind.. My friends don’t usually–” Pure Vanilla Cookie stretched his arms over his head. He’s so defined, so smooth–
His wrists are covered by the sleeves of the bodysuit. He’d meant to mention that during lunch, but maybe it’d be better discussed after the Ancient Predicament.
The jester forces himself to look away, rubbing at flushed cheeks.

“Yeah, well.. You assumed wrong! I’m not your friend. Remember that, Nilly? Or is your memory fleeting as fast as your relationships?”

“I’ll be quick in the bath, then.” Pure Vanilla Cookie nods with a patient smile, grabbing the towel and meandering over to the bathroom. He completely discards his wet robes on the floor.

Shadow Milk Cookie sat at the edge of the bed.. Nothing much to do but wait.
Somewhere in the room, there’s a clock ticking away at the seconds. He can hear the tub fill up in the distance. In moments like these, with no audience to perform for, the Beast Of Deceit finds itself… lost.. Staring at the wall.
Waiting for something to change.

Just like in the tree.

It helped pass the years, back then. It helped him ignore the feeling of silver bindings holding him prisoner.
He lost track of the centuries, and eventually stopped counting them altogether. There wasn’t a point. He was never getting out of here.
Perhaps, the fount had gotten tired of this.. Odd state of mind. Whenever cookies weren't bugging him, or he wasn't fulfilling a duty.. He’d stare off. Sometimes, he’d stare off all night. He didn’t need sleep, anyway. It helped with loneliness. There was nobody there, except the books he didn’t need to read and the portraits that held sentimentality for no one. Then, the sun would come up, and he’d be thrown back into autopilot.

His whole life had been nothing but hell. He gave everything, and nothing was returned but the cold lashings of an iron whip.

Shadow Milk Cookie feels a hand on his shoulder, yanking him from his absentminded staring. The sudden jolt back to reality gave him a bit of a headache as he turned to face the wielder of said hand.
Ah, that’s right. It’s Pure Vanilla Cookie.

The blonde smiles at him.. And he bites back the urge to reciprocate it.

He can’t tell how long he’s been absent, but the other is already dressed in new clothes. He offers the jester a neatly folded black robe, a complete contrast to the white ones he dressed Shadow Milk Cookie in prior.. Looks like someone’s been taking notes.

He hates them gingerly, as if accepting a gift from a heaven-sent saint.

“Are you okay? You went quiet.” Pure Vanilla Cookie clasps his own hands together, fiddling with his knuckles. “I was beginning to get worried.”

“Don’t worry your pretty little head, dollface~ The Beast of Deceit is not going to crumble yet. You, on the other hand, might. You’re going to be late to that boooring meeting or whatever you had planned for today.” Shadow Milk Cookie puts on his toothy grin, standing with a renewed (mostly) pep in his step.

“Be careful– Don’t fall– I’ll be back tonight, alright?” Pure Vanilla Cookie was already moving back towards the door.

He’s going to be alone again.
In the silence.
Please, don’t leave.

“Quit coddling and get out of here, you senile fool!” Shadow Milk Cookie scoffed as he entered the bathroom, slamming the door behind himself.

Pure Vanilla Cookie sighs, taking that as his cue to leave.

The rest of the day for each individual resumed routinely, mostly.

Pure Vanilla attended his meetings with pompous dignitaries, catching himself trailing off multiple times during discussions that never seemed to end. He hardly remembered what they were talking about, and by the time the meeting ended he thought he’d collapse from exhaustion.. But the day must go on. He stopped by his garden to water his plants, made sure Strawberry Crepe wasn’t building another bomb, then went to tend to his sheep.

The sun was sinking below the horizon by time he dragged himself up the palace stairs, entering his bedroom… which was a mess, with the culprit currently snuggled comfortably in his sheets, but he really didn't mind.
It made the place more homely, anyways.

A brush and a few books were strewn across the floor, and he noticed the jester had swept his desk clean of paperwork to make way for the shattered shards of the souljam. There was clearly an attempt to piece it back together. It made Pure Vanilla’s own Souljam ache.

He dropped his outer robes on the ground, and began to climb into bed beside the sleeping form of Shadow Milk Cookie.
He knew the other would complain about getting into bed with his ‘outside clothes’ on, but he barely had the energy to get into the bed alone.
Pure Vanilla Cookie smiles at the strange blue eyes in the other’s hair, that seem to blink at him with curiosity.. And possibly judgement. It’s a little hard to tell.
The orchid staff closes its weary eye as Pure Vanilla Cookie lays with his back facing the other.. This is nice.

He hopes it lasts.

The next morning was more cathartic than it should’ve been, bearing the news that the other ancient heroes were arriving.
When Pure Vanilla Cookie woke up, he was acutely aware of the little blue beast clinging to him as if he were a rope on a cliffside, claws caught on white silk robes and legs tangled thoroughly with desperation.
It took a bit of weasling, but he managed to escape the jester’s sleepy clutches and by proxy got them awake to start the day.

After changing, Pure Vanilla Cookie offered for the other to join him in his morning rituals.

Of course, he declined with a “And watch you bumble around in that oversized hat all day? BOOOOORING!”

“I’ll see you at lunch, then.” Pure Vanilla Cookie smiles, brows crinkled with amusement as he turned to leave.

And that’s the curtain call.
The moment the door clicks shut, Shadow Milk Cookie gets to work. He’s aware he’ll have his robes by the end of the week, but he can’t be seen adorning blank clothes for another day, especially if he’s to make a good impression among the ancients.
Luckily for him, Pure Vanilla Cookie has lots of clothes he probably doesn’t wear because he’s lame and boring.
He had plenty of time the previous evening to shuffle through what he needs, most of said items strewn across the floor in an organized mess. Pure Vanilla Cookie hadn’t questioned the mess when he came in, probably because he was far too tired to. That old fool refused to take a day to himself. Pitiful.

Back on task.

Shadow Milk Cookie picked up a random gilded suit he found in the wardrobe, and a pair of scissors. Time to get to work.

It was noon. The sun was in all her glory, basking the Vanilla Castle’s garden in golden rays of light. There was a gentle breeze to counter the otherwise overwhelming summer heat.
But, even with the breeze, Pure Vanilla Cookie was sweating bullets.
Shadow Milk Cookie should’ve been here by now.

Did he fall again?
Did something happen?
What if one of the ancients stumbled upon him before seeing Pure vanilla Cookie?

The king took in deep, practiced breaths. It’ll be fine. Don’t panic. Shadow Milk Cookie would be fine.. He hoped.

Just as he nearly decided not to wait any longer, he caught sight of the blue jester strolling towards the fountain.
He was beautiful.
Adorned in the now mended black robes, Pure Vanilla Cookie couldn’t help but stare with a gaping expression.
Despite the jester’s radiant appearance, he didn’t seem.. Particularly happy.

“Hello, bluebird.” Pure Vanilla Cookie smiled. Another pet name.
Shadow Milk Cookie let out a depleted sigh as he sat on the edge of the fountain, examining the contents of today’s lunch. Candy pasta with a side of juice.. Not bad.

“Is… everything okay?” Pure Vanilla Cookie tilts his head, looking the other up and down. The design on the robes was oddly familiar, and he eventually realized the other must’ve used cloth from his own wardrobe to make them. Ah, so that’s what the mess was about.

“Peachy keen!” Shadow Milk Cookie grinned, picking up a fork. “Why the long face, silly vanilly?”

Pure Vanilla Cookie raised a brow as he also picked up a fork, delicately twirling a few strings of candy pasta around it. “You just seemed a bit down… I love what you’ve done with the robes, by the way..”

“Thank you~ I know my expertise in tailoring is simply unmatched~”

“Perhaps I should’ve just let you tailor your own clothes.. That was a bit inconsiderate of me..” Pure Vanilla Cookie sighs, bringing the fork to his mouth.

“Yes, it was.” Shadow Milk Cookie remarks, pointing his fork at the ancient with an accusatory tone. “Mayyyybe if you were a little bit smarter, you could’ve thought about that before you shipped them off.”

“Sorry.” Pure Vanilla Cookie mumbled between chews.

“Don’t act so meek. You’re just like those sheep you care so much about.” Shadow Milk Cookie grumbles. “But, I suppose these robes will suffice, until I can get back to my beloved uniform.”

“Do you not enjoy your handiwork?”

“... It’s not my finest sewing.”
That.. was only partially a lie.

Yes, it was rushed. He’d thrown it together in a matter of hours, yet the vision came so easily to him.
That morning, standing in front of a full length mirror with his mended robes, he felt an unprecedented rage wash over him. Black robes, with golden details around the rims of the collar and sleeve. A golden cape.
The Fount mocked him, even in death.
He tried sewing eyes on the inside of the cloak, but realized he wouldn’t finish them before lunchtime.

He felt as if something were crawling beneath his skin. Disgusting.
You don’t belong here anymore. I don’t want to be you anymore. Leave me alone.

Something shiny glinted against the sun, making his sensitive eyes squint. At first he assumed it was Pure Vanilla Cookie’s ridiculous hat.. But, placing a sleeve over his forehead to block out the sun, he realized it was coming from the sky.

Something’s there. Something golden. Something… Radiant.
And it’s….. Rapidly approaching?

He doesn’t have time to process what he’s looking at before sharp talons are digging into his sleeves, and he’s being dragged up above the fountain by a perpetrator he can’t even see.

Chapter Text

Wind whisked sickeningly past Shadow Milk Cookie’s face. Flying was usually a relaxing activity, but hanging upside down and being flung around like a hawk-caught mouse was not.
“UNHAND ME!” He barely manages to hiss, awkwardly swiping his claws at the glistening golden avian. “YOU’RE GONNA REGRET THIS, PAL!” He flailed wildly, feeling the nausea building within. He’s going to lose his lunch if this continues much longer.
Luckily for him, it didn’t.
The distant shouting of his name from Pure Vanilla Cookie was nothing more than a ringing in his ears as he was suddenly dropped–No– thrown into a tree.

Bark scraped dough and branches snagged on hair as gravity pulled the jester towards the ground. His still flailing appendages found resistance, but no merciful purchase among the tree’s leaves. Curse his stupid broken souljam, and curse whoever interrupted his peaceful evening.

The ground was not any kinder than the sky, breaking his fall with a thud. Everything hurts.
The beast groans, rolling onto his side. Before he can even attempt to move the rest of his pounding body, merciful arms are wrapped around him, supporting his weight.

“I’m.. I’m so sorry– I didn’t—” Pure Vanilla Cookie sounds.. Scared. He’s pulling Shadow Milk Cookie in close, cradling him. Coddling him. He’s crying. Why is he crying?

“Quit it, you big dumb baby.” Shadow Milk Cookie hesitantly wipes away the king’s tears, trying to ignore his body’s demanding pleas to stop moving.

“But Golden Cheese Cookie– She hurt you.. I..”

“Hush.” The beast clambered into Pure Vanilla Cookie’s arms as if he belonged there. He doesn’t know when he got so comfortable being held by the cookie, but he was positive it was a happier place than even The Garden Of Sweet Delights.

Pure Vanilla Cookie sniffed, his blind eyes glossy with tears. “Are you–”

“Pure Vanilla Cookie.” Golden Cheese Cookie cleared her throat, standing a few paces behind the other. She keeps her scowl trained on the beast, but her brow occasionally wrinkles in confusion.
Golden Cheese Cookie remembers her encounter with her beast like it was yesterday. She remembers the agony. She remembers the fear. But most of all, she’s learned from that encounter that these animals are not to be trusted. She could not bare to see Pure Vanilla Cookie hold that blue menace so close, cradling it as if it weren’t allied with Dark Enchantress Cookie— Who is another can of worms.
She could not wrap her head around why he’d let that thing into his home, give it free will and trust.
The grip on her golden staff tightened. No, she would protect her friend. By any means necessary.

When she first arrived at the Vanilla Kingdom and wandered the grounds searching for him, she could not suppress the rage she felt. A beast and a hero, lunching together as if all was well in the world. Sick. She was sick to her stomach.

Surely, Pure Vanilla Cookie had to be under some magical influence, and she was going to break him from it.
But now… Seeing him so delicately pressed against the beast, examining Golden Cheese Cookie as if she had stepped out of line for attacking him.. It twisted her stomach in a way she couldn’t describe.
“...Golden Ch–”

She interrupted whatever Pure Vanilla Cookie was going to say, raising a hand for silence. “I think we should discuss this indoors. The others are waiting for you.”

The meeting room was far, far too bright. And far too crowded.

The large circular table was surrounded by potted plants, and towering stained glass windows that left no shadow unvanquished. Shadow Milk cookie couldn’t even hide if he wanted to, rubbing the shattered souljam fastened to his neck. He tried to glue it back together with whatever he found in the supply closet, but looked like a failed kindergarten craft project. Pathetic.
If The Master of Deceit cant even fix his own souljam, how is he going to fix the larger problem?

One step at a time.

Shadow Milk Cookie, briefly pondered skimpering away and hiding for the duration of the meeting.. But avoiding this problem would probably land him right back in the tree.

No, he needed to put on a show. He needs to be a happy, shiny cookie.

Like The Fount of Knowledge.

The thought sends a shiver down his spine. Okay, maybe not like him.

A reassuring hand is placed against his back, dragging him back to reality. Right… The bright room and the glaring eyes all trained like weapons pointed at his throat. Even during their current conversation, they give him stabbing glances.
He should be used to being looked at like a monster, but lately it hurt a lot more than it should’ve. Usually, he’d have his minions to reassure him that he was the trickiest, most clever cookie on the planet, and these underlings weren't worth the trouble.

But his minions aren’t here anymore, and it’s all his fault.
He’s had to confide in his enemy’s arms, because he has nothing left.
It’s over, isn’t it?

Pure Vanilla Cookie sits beside Shadow Milk Cookie with one hand rested on his lap and the other rested on the other’s back. “Shadow Milk Cookie is not an animal, White Lily Cookie. Locking him away will not solve anything– You’d just be kicking him while he’s down.”

“What he took away from me will not be forgotten with a little apology. None of the beast cookies are capable of reformation, and the witches knew that. That’s why they were locked away.” She challenged, her gaze hardening. “As your friend, Pure Vanilla Cookie, this is what’s for the best.”

Shadow Milk Cookie can feel his heart quickening.

“Let’s not get too hasty!” Hollyberry Cookie speaks, crossing her arms with disapproval at the verdict. “Not all of the beasts are the same. I believe we should give him a chance– If not for morality reasons, then perhaps for tactical reasons. He can help us fight Dark Enchantress Cookie– Maybe, even convince the other beasts to change as well.”

A weapon. Is that all he is?

“Shadow Milk Cookie .. is recovering. He will not be fighting anyone unless he wants to, and is in condition to do so.” Pure Vanilla Cookie frowned. “He’s a cookie with his own thoughts and feelings, not a pawn.”

“How do we know this isn’t a trick? What evidence do we have that you, Pure Vanilla Cookie, are not under his influence and coaxing us into letting a parasite into your kingdom?” Dark Cacao’s brows pinched together. Stubborn old fool.

Shadow Milk Cookie let out an exhausted sigh, much louder than he intended to. “If you want to know something, you could always ask. I–”

I am The Fount of Knowledge, after all.
No.
“I am sitting right here, after all.”

“Then tell me, Beast Of Deceit, what are your intentions? What exactly brings you to the Vanilla Kingdom?” White Lily Cookie stood, hands trained against her staff.

“I..” Shadow Milk Cookie began, “... I needed somewhere to go. My souljam has gone silent, and my minions are still missing after the fight. Dark Enchantress Cookie did not … want me. Anymore.” The bitter truth stung like venom against his throat. He was worthless. “I failed to dispose of Pure Vanilla Cookie.. I… I didn’t want to. She was furious.”

He can’t look the ancient heroes in the eyes, the admission left him burning with humiliation. Why had he said that? Why did he speak the truth? The truth that hurt him and other cookies so badly?
This is fruitless. You’re the beast of deceit. Where are your fangs?

The ancients looked among themselves and murmured contemplatively.

“Well, maybe this is what you deserve.” White Lily Cookie choked out. She regretted it. She knows it wasn’t needed. But it felt so, so good to let out. “I hardly believe you deserve Pure Vanilla’s merciful kindness, but now you know how it feels to truly lose everything. Now you know what it feels like to have someone taken away from you.”

Pure Vanilla Cookie stared with his mouth slightly agape at the statement. Before he could muster a response, the two were talking over each other.

Shadow Milk Cookie’s eyes narrowed into slits so sharp, they could cut flesh. He was shaking with rage, his hair lashing into wild, angry tendrils. “You.. INSOLENT GUARDIAN!” Claws raked along the table, leaving grating marks in their wake. “YOU KNOW NOTHING OF WHAT IT MEANS TO TRULY SUFFER.” He spat the words with so much venom, it was a wonder how they didn't melt her hardened expression.

“That’s where you’re wrong, beast.” White Lily Cookie scoffed. “I moved on.” She gave the other ancients a brief glance– One of deep consideration. “I didn’t become a monster, unlike you. You lie, you manipulate. No amount of pain endured can justify pain inflicted upon others.” The queen turns her scowl to Pure Vanilla Cookie, her face twisting with disgust. “I.. don’t know if I trust your decision to let him reside here. This could all be some elaborate trick.”

There were murmurs of agreement among the other three ancients.

“ We–” Pure Vanilla Cookie doesn’t get any time to finish his statement.

“ Hand him over.” White Lily Cookie frowned. “We can finish this, right here. Right now.”

The expression of anguish that washed over the beast’s face was, admittedly, very amusing to her.

Dark Cacao Cookie cleared his throat. “I understand your concern, White Lily Cookie…” He began, “But, this is Pure Vanilla Cookie’s kingdom, and Pure Vanilla Cookie’s beast. It is completely up to him, whether or not he decides to hand custody over to you.”

White Lily Cookie’s brow twitched, but her expression did not falter. She took a deep breath. Was she overstepping?

Dark Cacao Cookie was right. She was making big demands, especially as a guest in someone else’s kingdom.
But, Pure Vanilla Cookie also meant everything to her, and she wasn’t about to make another mistake that would cost many their lives.
She wasn’t going to crumble Cookie Society for the second time, because she let this rabid animal run freely. Let him slip through her fingers when he’s weak, and containable.

She owed it to Elder Faerie Cookie, at the very least, to seal the beast. To finish what he started.

“White Lily Cookie, as my friend, I need you to trust me.” Pure Vanilla Cookie frowned, placing a calming hand over Shadow Milk Cookie’s claws. His thumb traced over the clawmarks on the table idly. “I need you to understand that I know this is risky, I know he’s done terrible things, but I’m making the choice to help him—”

“And I’m stopping you from making the wrong choice.” Just like I wished you would’ve stopped me, all those years ago.

Shadow Milk Cookie dislodged his claws from the table and instead moved them around his own arms. He began to sputter with convulsing sobs. Losing control of his own fate was.. Not the greatest feeling. It brought back a lot of less favorable memories.
His wide eyes turned on White Lily Cookie, who still refused to grace his horror with any kind of softness. His fear began to twist into mania, his sobs bubbling into laughter.
If he was going to go down, then he’d at least make sure it was his own decision.

It was hard to tell if the rest of the ancients had their brows pinched with concern or disgust. Maybe it was both.

“WHAT A JOKE! SAINT WHITE LILY COOKIE, QUEEN OF THE FARIES, A BIGGER LIAR THAN THE BEAST OF DECEIT!” He placed a hand on his forehead, reeling back with a flurry of uncontrolled giggles. There was no going back now. He might as well commit to the part he’s been forced to play. “Yes, this is all an ELABORATE TRICK to STEAL THE SOULJAM! I threw my minions to the wolves to save my own ass!” It was hard to differentiate his own lies from his truths anymore. They both hurt equally as bad to spit out.
He grinned, all teeth. “AND NOW, I’M GOING TO LEVEL THIS KINGDOM AND THEN THE REST OF EARTHBREAD!”

He became aware of Pure Vanilla Cookie placing an awkward hand on his shoulder, trying to drag him out of this performance he’s locked himself in. “Shadow Milk Cookie, please–”

“So, you’re right! But please, skip the sealing part. Just kill me this time. No, I REALLY MEAN IT! I want to be center stage in a big courtyard, with the shiniest guillotine you can craft. I want them all to witness the slaying of the beast.” Shadow Milk Cookie’s broken soul jam ached unhappily. Quiet, you.

White lily Cookie stood, gripping her staff in her hand. Her scarlet eyes locked onto the beast sitting across from her. “Why should I let you take an easy way out? After everything?”
As she stands, the soft hum of magic begins to pool at her fingertips.

“He has already lost everything, White Lily Cookie. Condemning him will not reverse what he’s already done.” Pure Vanilla Cookie’s orchid staff analyzed her cautiously. He was ready to spring into action, should this conversation turn physical.

HollyBerry cookie looks as if she witnessed a divorce.
Golden Cheese Cookie looks as if she witnessed a murder… But is so interested in hearing all the grizzly details.
And Dark Cacao Cookie had the weary expression of a father watching his children cry over spilled milk.

“Maybe we should stop the meeting here..” Hollyberry Cookie spoke up, averting her eyes. “Things clearly need to cool off before–”

The jester does not know why he said what he said, or how he was unable to keep the words from leaving his mouth.
“I killed Elder Faerie because, like me, it’s what he deserved.”
That wasn’t true. That wasn’t true at all. But, it was easier to believe this sweet lie than confront the ugly fact that killing Elder Faerie Cookie was wrong.

Pure Vanilla Cookie was now gaping at him.

The mild frustration in White Lily Cookie’s gaze bubbled over into searing hot rage. “HE WAS NOTHING LIKE YOU!”
She should reach him a thing or two about running his mouth faster than he could flee from the thing he was talking to.
Pure Vanilla Cookie can forgive her later.

“Well, at least the witches’ pet deserves a little gold star!” He flashed his teary-eyed smile at White Lily Cookie. “Are you gonna get on with eradicating me now, or what? I’m bored of this little conversation, but it was nice to entertain the queens and kings of the court!”

He broke his eye contact with the white-haired cookie, and turned to look at Pure Vanilla Cookie.

Pure Vanilla Cookie looked.. Disappointed? Upset? It was hard to describe.

Shadow Milk Cookie’s chest ached with a feeling he didn’t want to put a name to.

Grief.

He was sparing Pure Vanilla Cookie judgement from his peers, and the burden of discovering that he couldn’t change, right?
Sparing him from the jester’s bothersome presence? Clinging to him like a moth to a lamp in the darkness of the night, sinking his teeth into any warmth he could get.
This was for the best.

He did not deserve to live, after leaving his minions to fend for themselves.
He didn’t want to live like this anymore. Being played with and discarded.. Pure Vanilla Cookie would do the same eventually, wouldn’t he?

“You–” White Lily Cookie stopped, looking the beast up and down. “If this is really what you want. Then I, The Guardian of The Seal, will fulfill that request dutifully.”

Shadow Milk Cookie’s muscles tensed, his heart quickening.
Is this really what you want?

“Stop!” Pure Vanilla Cookie rises, standing in her path. “I can’t let you do that–”

The other three ancients exchanged glances, clearly torn on the matter.

“White Lily Cookie… I think Pure Vanilla’s.. Guest.. Is a bit troubled.” Hollyberry cookie placed a hand on her chin. “We should think this over for a few more days before we jump to a decision.”

“ He’s clearly made up his mind. Why not give him what he wants?” White Lily Cookie tried to sidestep Pure Vanilla Cookie, but the taller ancient was determined on not letting her pass.

“Please!” Pure Vanilla Cookie sounded so… desperate. Heartbroken. “I do not want to fight you. Nobody has to fight.” He sounded as if he were on the verge of tears.

It tugged on Lily’s heartstrings.
It absolutely rips Shadow Milk Cookie’s heartstrings out of his chest.

There’s silence. Long, agonizing silence.

“Fine..” White Lily Cookie is the first to bend, raising a hand to rub at her temples with a sigh. She can’t believe she’s doing this. “I’m sorry...”
She glances briefly at Shadow Milk Cookie, brows furrowing indecisively. “I’m sorry, Shadow Milk Cookie. I shouldn’t… have said that.”
She bit back a few remarks, knowing it would do more harm than good if they stayed at each other’s throats the entire visit.

Shadow Milk Cookie’s smile faltered. Why was she apologizing? Why wasn’t she chasing him?
His face twists into a few undiscernible emotions… Disgust? Anguish? Confusion? He can’t tell what he’s feeling anymore. His brain is short-circuiting. They’re off script now.

He felt the venom rise into his throat, but it only came out as a pathetic choked sob. Is he crying? In front of the ancients? How humiliating.
After a brief, desperate attempt to wipe away the tears doting his eyes, he gets up with a hasty stumble and flees the scene.
He can feel their eyes on him, judging him. Judging his performance, his worth. He felt so small.

Pure Vanilla Cookie reaches out, but he realizes that Shadow Milk Cookie would probably appreciate some time alone.

“Sorry.” He hears White Lily Cookie mumble from behind, but his orchid staff is fixated on the now empty doorway. He sighs, raising a hand to rub at his face. He’s already exhausted, and the day has barely begun.
“I don’t know why I thought this was a good idea.” He sat back down, resting his face into his hand. “I’ve made everything worse..”

“It’s not your fault, sugarcube.” Hollyberry Cookie reached out to pat her fellow ancient’s back. “Things are just… tense.”

White Lily Cookie awkwardly averts her gaze. Perhaps she’d been too persistent. She was always making new problems.
Dark Cacao Cookie noticed the fairy queen’s silent dilemma, and gingerly offered her a cup of tea. It was subtle, but it helped pull her from her spiraling thoughts.

“Why don’t we all just enjoy the rest of the evening? I’m not going to pass up an opportunity to go drinking with my friends!” HollyBerry Cookie roughly wrapped an arm around Pure Vanilla, pulling him into a tight bear hug.
The skinny little cookie struggled in her grasp. “Ah–”

“What about the beast?” Golden Cheese Cookie raised an eyebrow.
“I’ll let him know I’m leaving.” Pure Vanilla Cookie hums, barely escaping Hollyberry’s hug of certain death. “I don’t believe he’ll want to join us, though..”

“So he will remain.. Unsupervised? In your palace?” White Lily Cookie frowned.

“I trust Shadow Milk Cookie to not burn down the castle while I’m away.” Pure Vanilla Cookie nods.

“That’s quite a bit of trust.” Dark Cacao grunts, exchanging a dubious look with Golden Cheese Cookie.

“And I’m sure Pure Vanilla Cookie has a reason to give him that trust.” Hollyberry interjected coolly. “Now, are you going to stop stalling or are you cowards going to challenge me to a drinking competition?”

“But you always win.” Pure Vanilla Cookie chuckled, rising with the rest of his friends as they began strolling towards the big double doors of the conference room.

“Where’s your passion, Pure Vanilla Cookie?! Never give up!” Hollyberry cackled.

“I do recall you mentioning in one of your letters that you beat a dragon in a drinking competition.” White Lily Cookie giggled, placing a hand over her mouth. “You make winning sound like an impossible feat.”

“But that doesn’t mean I can’t try!” Golden Cheese Cookie smirked, raising her spear triumphantly. “The Radiant Ruler of the golden city never backs down from a challenge!”

“That’s the spirit!” Hollyberry Cookie pats the winged cookie on the back.

It’s going to be a long night.

Shadow Milk Cookie’s legs are still burning with pain, even now as he’s curled in on himself, wrapped in Pure Vanilla Cookie’s blankets. This room was much warmer than the guest room he’d been resting in.
The pillows smelled like vanilla.
The dull aching in the back of his skull did little to comfort him, jagged claws digging into blue dough.
Would Pure Vanilla Cookie be angry when he got back and saw the mess he made? The jam smeared on the white sheets? The tears staining his pillows?

Would he punish him?

It had been… Minutes? Hours? He couldn’t tell anymore, since Pure Vanilla Cookie came upstairs and quietly announced that he was going out to drink with his friends. He mumbled soft reassurances of his return, but Shadow Milk Cookie pretended to be asleep. He obscured his face in the sheets, red and puffy from his recent crying streak.

As soon as he heard the creaking door announce the ancient’s absence, he’d found himself being flung into another violent rage. He screamed into pillows, running his claws along his dough as if he were trying to get something from beneath it.

Needless to say, it did little to improve his mood.
His stomach growled, his mouth was dry, but he couldn’t find the energy to walk down to the kitchens.

He wishes, bitterly, that Pure Vanilla Cookie had stayed here to comfort him.
Now he’s really alone.
The eyes in his hair blink back at him. He never liked them that much.

When sleep comes, it pulls him below like the current of a relentless river. He’s smothered in its darkness, leaving a chill that settles deep within his dough while simultaneously feeling as though he’d just run a marathon.

When he opens his eyes, he’s standing on a balcony, looking at the moon. There’s a golden staff in his hand, and a crown resting upon his starry hair. He’s in black gilded robes.

The Fount of Knowledge collapses onto his knees, dropping his staff beside him as he scrapes his hands against cold stones. He’d served his purpose, hadn’t he? He spread knowledge to any cookie who seeked it.

Cookies, he found, much preferred not to be told things that would upset them. An unsatisfying answer, no matter how true, often resulted in cookies claiming he was a liar.

He had to pretend it didn’t bother him that cookies rejected the only thing that made his life worth living.
He had to put on his godlike facade, because it was the only thing that kept him from falling apart.

But now, the yearning seeps through his deepest conscience and bubbles to the surface like a contained explosion. He had all the knowledge in the world, and nobody to share it with.
A hand caresses the lock around his neck.. Cold.

There was not a single soul in this existence who understood him, or cared to understand him. Observing other cookies, he realized he’d never experience the things that made life worth living for other cookies.
He was always working. Always sharing knowledge to cookies who seemed to want it less and less as the years went on.

He grits his teeth, brows scrunching together with frustration.
“WHAT MORE DO YOU WANT FROM ME!?”

The Fount hisses to deaf ears, clutching at his robes. Those hideous, awful, heavy robes. “I did everything you wanted.” His wails evened out into quieter sobs. He cried until his ribs begged for fresh air, until he was folded in on himself.

“I did everything I was supposed to.”

It’s not fair. The witches weren't playing fair.
Giving him a chess board with pieces that he couldn’t use.

Well, The Fount of Knowledge was done playing.
He dragged himself to his feet, grabbing the balcony railing.

He’d make a new game.

His arms shook with effort as he hauled his body over the railing, his limbs flailing wildly as wind whisked past his face.

Pure Vanilla Cookie held onto his staff like a lifeline. Its light steadily guided him through the moonlit halls of the sleeping palace.
Just as he predicted, despite Golden Cheese Cookie’s unrivaled ambition, Hollyberry Cookie once again took the victory in their little drinking game.

He didn’t drink. His mind was in other places, and he wasn’t entirely sure if Shadow Milk Cookie was in the mood to deal with him if he were inebriated. He needed to be sober.

He needed to be ready for the worst, knowing some kind of antics typically followed the jester’s emotional breaks.
The king’s grip on his staff tightened as he approached his bedroom door.

It was quiet. Was that a good sign?
Something in his chest twisted sickeningly as he placed a hand on the handle, and pushed the door open carefully, in case the other was asleep.
The ancient doors of the palace had a tendency to creak, so he slid in through the small crack of the barely opened door and tip-toed across the room.

Shadow Milk Cookie was a strange sleeper– But that was the least of Pure Vanilla Cookie’s concerns.
He was sprawled out across the mattress, claws caught on tangled sheets. The jester took shuttering breaths, panic evident by the sweat pooling under his chin.

Pure Vanilla Cookie set his staff beside the bed, sucking in a deep breath as he examined the scene.
“Shadow Milk Cookie?” He whispered, climbing into the bed and gingerly wrapping his hands around his blue, broken body. “Can you hear me?”

The beast stirs with a groan, lazily clutching at Pure Vanilla’s Robes. “Wharhyou doin’ here?” He slurred, cracking open an eye. The ancient’s brilliance hurt to look at.

“ Did you do this to yourself?” Pure Vanilla Cookie frowned, ignoring the question as he surveyed the other’s wounds.

“I asked.. A question.” Shadow Milk Cookie grumbled, rubbing his eyes as he slowly came back to consciousness. “Why does it matter?”

“I need to know.” Pure Vanilla Cookie sat criss-crossed on the mattress, cradling the smaller in his lap as he began massaging little circles into him. “Did you have another nightmare?”

The healing magic left a tingling feeling around his wounds, twitching awkwardly. “I– Quit touching me while I’m naked!” Shadow Milk Cookie hissed abruptly, grabbing the sheets and pulling them closer to obscure his body.

“You’re bleeding.” Pure Vanilla Cookie shook his head. “Please, be honest with me. I don’t know how to help you if you won't let me.”

“Don’t get soggy on me.” Shadow Milk Cookie rolls his eyes, the corners of his lips creasing with a frown. “I want to go back to sleep. Stop prodding me.”

“...” There was a sigh. “At least let me heal you. You’re clearly in pain..”

“....Fine.”

The next few minutes was spent mostly in silence, with the exception of agitated grumbles warning Pure Vanilla when he was too close to places Shadow Milk Cookie didn’t want to be touched.
Selfishly, he enjoyed looking at Shadow Milk Cookie. Taking in every detail of his dough, making note of every crease and curve of his body as if he were a map to be studied.
He hates to admit it was a bit enjoyable, cradling the drowsy beast in his most vulnerable moments.
It was.. Intimate.

White Lily Cookie would definitely not approve. She’d probably think he was enchanted.

But the way they slipped beside each other as if it were routine was unmistakeably real. The way Shadow Milk Cookie curled up in his arms before they prepared to sleep, bantering in hushed whispers like wind blowing over a field of Milk Crown flowers.

A conversation with Shadow Milk Cookie was never a waste of time.

“I talked to White Lily Cookie, by the way.” Pure Vanilla whispered, now in his bed clothes. It was a simple white lace robe, light and comfortable.

“Is she finally going back to her sickeningly silver kingdom of hideous insects?”

“No,” He chuckles. “She agreed to be… more polite to you.”

“So you asked her to pity me?” He huffs. “That’s cruel, even for you, Nilly. I’m hurt, truly.”

“Sorry. Next time, I’ll let her bring up your insecurities in front of everyone. I can even tell her some of the ones I noticed, if you’d like.”

“.... Okay, there’s no need to get sassy.” Shadow Milk Cookie stuck out his tongue, and pinched the blonde in his lower back. It incited a sound he’d never heard before. “And, The beast of Deceit doesn’t have insecurities.”

“Hmm… Okay, bluebird. Whatever helps you sleep at night.” Pure Vanilla Cookie brushed back white streaks of hair, and planted a kiss on the beast’s forehead. “Goodnight.”

The ‘goodnight’ sounded so final and resolute, but Shadow Milk Cookie was left absolutely reeling from the kiss. He opened his mouth to say something, closed it, then opened it again. He never found his words. It was as if the butterflies in his stomach had devoured his vocal chords, and left him an eternally astonished corpse.

What?

He heard Pure Vanilla Cookie giggle beside him, the beast’s flushed face pressed into his chest. He’d have to get payback for that.

Pure Vanilla Cookie has very confusing dreams, ones he often cannot understand himself.
He had nightmares, more than he’d like to admit.

Especially, about The Spire.
Especially, about Shadow Milk Cookie.
Especially, about Dark Enchantress Cookie.

Tonight was .. different, but not in a way he could define. It felt so much more real than the phantom glimpses of the past, or fears of the future.
He could feel the Milk Crown Flowers beneath his dough, swaying in a cool night breeze.
Well, he guesses it was nighttime. The sky was completely dark, and there wasn’t a single star that twinkled down on the landscape. Except…

A blue shape in the distance caught his eye, standing out among the sea of white flowers. The figure’s twilight hair flowed gently with the wind, as silky as the waves of the ocean. Something told Pure Vanilla Cookie that was who he was meant to speak with.
He gravitated towards them, staff in hand. The closer he got, the clearer they came into view. They were kneeling in the flowers, sobbing into their palms.

His chest twists with guilt, but he doesn’t know why. “Are you okay?”

The figure gasps and spins to face Pure Vanilla Cookie, covering their mouth as if they’d just spoken a terrible lie.
Or, a terrible truth.

Pure Vanilla Cookie took a step forward, resting his staff in the crook of his arm and taking the cookie’s hands in his own. They’re as cold as ice. “You’re cold.” He frowns, stepping in closer as he attempts to warm this oddly familiar cookie.
It’s on the tip of his tongue, but he can’t quite remember.

“I’ve been cold for a very, very long time..” The cookie mumbles. “There’s nothing I can do about that, now.”

“I can help you.” Pure Vanilla Cookie hums. No matter how many times he rubs the cookie’s shivering hands, they don’t seem to warm up.

“No, I’m afraid you can’t.” The cookie closes their eyes. A dozen other pairs blink back at Pure Vanilla Cookie.

“How do you know? You haven’t even let me try.” He frowns, pulling them in closer. It feels like grasping at a piece of paper blowing away during a storm.

“Because, I am the bearer of all knowledge.” They state simply, allowing themselves to be embraced by the ancient. “And, I am already gone.”

Pure Vanilla Cookie blinks, and he is suddenly holding empty robes. They were torn and tattered, the look of something abandoned a very long time ago.

I am the bearer of all knowledge, and I am already gone.

He was too late.
Would he be too late again?

There’s a single star in the empty sky.

Chapter Text

When wakefulness came, it was in the form of a mild aching working its way deep into Shadow Milk Cookie’s dough. The room was unpleasantly bright, and he was surrounded by a familiar warmth pressed against his back.
He didn’t bother peeling his eyes open, instead turning away from the open window and crawling into the ancient’s lap, wedging his head under what he assumed was a book.

Pure Vanilla Cookie stilled, lifting his arms to allow the beast access. “Good afternoon, sleepyhead.”

Shadow Milk cookie responded with an illegible grunt, burying his face into the other’s white gown and throwing his arms out over the other side of the bed. He finally opened an eye, and noticed his arms had been wrapped in fresh white bandages.
Oh, right.

“Too early..” He mumbles.

“It’s 2:00.” Pure Vanilla Cookie grinned, resting a hand on the beast’s back, absently stroking their back. “And, I have something planned for us today.” His voice was gentle, sickeningly sweet.
Shadow Milk Cookie can feel his teeth rotting, but he can’t help but omit a deep purr as his back meets warm hands. “Does it involve more napping?”

“Hmmm.. Maybe I can fit that in somewhere.. But I thought it would be nice if you got to know my friends.” He sounded unsure of himself. “And, we can go pick up your clothes from the tailor.”
“I have to spend the day with bumsss.” Shadow Milk Cookie groaned. “Bums that want to kill me.”

“I talked with them.” The ancient shakes his head, setting his book aside completely. “And, they are willing to give you a chance. Even White Lily Cookie.”

“Sounds like a trap.” Shadow Milk Cookie rolls onto his back, gazing up at the ancient with a skeptical look, eyes squinted.

“I wish you’d have a bit more faith in me.”

“I have faith in you.” He admits, bitterly. “But not in them.”

“Well, you have nothing left to lose.” Pure Vanilla Cookie points out. “And, I think you’ll find that they.. Aren’t as bad as they seem.” He cups the jester’s face in his hands, opening his mismatched eyes to give him a look that could melt the coldest of hearts. “Please? At least try, for me?”

Shadow Milk Cookie flushed, freezing like a deer in headlights.

“.....FFFFFFFFIIiiiiiiineee.” He hisses, placing a hand over the king’s face. “Just stop looking at me like that.”

Pure Vanilla Cookie chuckled, pulling the other into a hug.
Their faces are close, nuzzled flush against each other as a matter of fact.

Shadow Milk Cookie sticks out his forked tongue, only to have whatever snarky remark he was going to spit out be cut off by a gentle kiss placed on his cheek.
There goes that kissing thing again.

He sputters, stutters, and fails at speech entirely. This only excited more giggles out of Pure Vanilla Cookie, who was now holding his hands and intertwining their fingers.

When had this gotten so intimate?
Was this just a game, or did the ancient really mean his little shows of affection?

“Off.” Shadow Milk Cookie abruptly demanded, squirming out of the other’s hold. “Mouthy freak.” He grumbles, much to Pure Vanilla Cookie’s dismay.

“Sorry, you just seemed to like it.” The ancient flushes, rubbing his own red cheeks. “And I like kissing you.”

“Gross.” Shadow Milk Cookie imitated a gag, which made the oh-so-mighty cookie sitting beside him make a frowny face.

Regretfully, The beast feels like he kicked a puppy. Maybe, just maybe, he was sincere.

“... If you keep smothering me like that, maybe White Lily Cookie won’t need that binding spell after all.” He rolls his eyes, even though the other can't see it. “But, I guess it’s nice.”

Pure Vanilla Cookie’s grin returned, and he pressed another kiss onto the corner of Shadow Milk Cookie’s lips before getting out of bed to gather his clothes. “Come on, we’re already quite late.. You slept much longer than I anticipated.”
Shadow Milk Cookie awkwardly scooted out of bed, the tiles cold against his bare feet. “Yeah, yeah.”

After a mildly frustrating time of trying to get Shadow Milk Cookie to pick something to wear, then carrying him down the halls because ‘he is too pretty of a princess’ to walk, they finally made it out of the palace and into the sun.

Cruelly, Pure Vanilla cookie was making him walk now. Because it's good for him, or whatever. He made sure to complain all the way to the tailor’s store.
Annoyingly, the ancient was not phased by this. He could’ve sworn he got tuned out entirely, no matter how petty his complaints were.

Play stupid games, win stupid prizes.

Pure Vanilla Cookie knocked before he was invited inside by a cookie Shadow Milk would only describe as ‘goblin-like’.

…Okay, maybe that was a little mean, but they were short. So short, they tried their best not to drag the newly sewn outfit across the floor as they presented it to the pair.

“Just like you asked, sir!” The tailor, Panna Cotta Cookie, beamed. They were clearly proud of their work.
It was nicely repaired, and even mended or touched up.

“You did an excellent job, Panna Cotta Cookie.” Pure Vanilla smiled, taking the outfit and turning to his companion. “Do you want to put it on now?”

“Duh!” Shadow Milk Cookie basically snatched it out of the king’s hands, and strutted over to the nearest changing room. He’d finally get out of these plain old vanillian robes.

Once he changed, he examined himself in the mirror.
He didn’t like how unfamiliar his clothes felt now, but this was what he wanted, wasn’t it?
They were comfortable, flashy, a return to his dramatic flare. A stark contrast to the near sterile robes he’d been provided with in the palace.

His eyes caught on the souljam that was now fastened to his silver brooch on his neck ruffles, where it belonged.
It was rather upsetting to look at.

His hand slicked back his hair, catching any loose strands that threatened to stray too far.
The show must go on.

The tailor was rewarded handsomely with a palm-sized bag of currency, and the pair of course didn’t leave without their goodbyes and gratitudes.

Back out into the sun, Shadow Milk Cookie trails beside Pure Vanilla in an odd silence. He couldn’t think of anything else to complain about… Well, except for the obvious. “My legs hurt.”

“We’re almost at our destination.” Pure Vanilla Cookie hums. “But, I suppose I could carry you if you’d like…”
“I’ve been on such good behavior and I think I deserve a reward.” Shadow Milk Cookie points out. “I haven’t turned any cookies into cakehounds, nor have I flipped the castle upside down yet!”

“Can you even do any of those things, right now?” He raises a brow.

“Well, It wouldn’t hurt to try.” Shadow Milk cookie hums, scratching his chin. “I’m sure I’ve rested enough for a lifetime.”

“You’re still…” Pure Vanilla Cookie paused, choosing his words carefully. “... Just be careful, okay?”

“I’m not going to die, Nilly.”

Pure Vanilla Cookie distantly recalled his nightmare. Dream? Vision? Whatever it was.
It felt too real.

“I just don’t want you to get hurt again.” He mumbles.

“Worried about little ol me? I’m flattered.” Shadow Milk Cookie grins, all teeth.

They appeared to be approaching a charming little diner, mainly constructed of wood. The sign on the roof read JAMPIE DINER in messy red paint.
Shadow Milk Cookie pursed his lips, quietly evaluating his predicament. This place felt a bit beneath him.

Pure Vanilla held the door open for him, and he sauntered inside with his hands on his hips.
It was fairly clean, nicely decorated… Nothing special.
It only took one once-over to find the booth full of ancients. They stuck out like a sore thumb, clamoring and bantering among each other.
Something sour twisted in the jester’s chest.

He didn’t approach until Pure Vanilla Cookie did, and took the beast by the hand to annoyingly drag him along.

“Well, well, well. Look who finally decided to show up!” Hollyberry cookie patted the two… or, more like one and a half, open spots beside her.
Pure Vanilla Cookie took a seat, and Shadow Milk Cookie reluctantly sat beside him. He felt like a ghost, even though all eyes seemed to be on him.

He wishes he could disappear into the other-realm, and never face this head-on.

Instead, he has a part to play, but no script to follow.

“Apologies for my tardiness.. We had some errands to run.” Pure Vanilla Cookie smiled, folding his hands in his lap.

Shadow Milk Cookie tried to ignore the feeling of White Lily Cookie boring her stare into him from the other side of the table. She looks as if she has something to say.

“Well, don’t worry. Your radiance was not left waiting long~” Golden Cheese Cookie smirks.

By the looks of it, no one had ordered anything but coffee yet.

Ooooooh, coffee.
Shadow Milk Cookie picked up a menu, and poked Pure Vanilla Cookie under the table. He leaned in to whisper to the other, using the menu to hide away from the glaring ancient across the table. “I want coffee.”
“You need to eat as well, Bluebird.” Pure Vanilla Cookie gave him a fond little smile. “And… Why are you whispering?”

“And so do you.” Shadow Milk Cookie rolls his eyes. “Fine, we can share some waffles…” He glances back at the menu. “With blueberries and whipped cream. And chocolate.”
“What are you whispering about?” Hollyberry Cookie butted in, using a comically loud whispering voice.

“None of your business!” Shadow Milk Cookie hissed.

“You realize you all aren’t very good at whispering, right?” Dark Cacao Cookie raised a brow from across the table, clearly stifling a chuckle.

Shadow Milk Cookie went bright blue with embarrassment, sinking into his seat a bit.

“It’s alright, dear. I think you’re a great whisperer.” Pure Vanilla Cookie, annoyingly, gives him that honey sweet voice again.

“Gross.” He makes sure the cookies in the adjacent booth can absolutely hear what he says next. “Keep calling me pet names, and I’m going to start telling people we slept together.”

Bingo.
The look on White Lily Cookie’s face was priceless, and the way she turned to an equally perplexed Golden Cheese Cookie erupted a few giggles from him.

Pure Vanilla Cookie opened and closed his mouth a few times, a flush rising to his face.

“What’s the matter? Cat got your tongue?” Shadow Milk Cookie snickers.

“It seems you’ve gotten… Comfortable here.” Dark Cacao is the first to speak, eying an approaching waitress.

“He’s been recovering nicely.” Pure Vanilla Cookie forced his pumping heart to slow, waving to the waitress. “I think he’s great company.”
Shadow Milk Cookie raised a brow. Was this fool serious?

All he’s done is eat his food, demand things of him, cling to his clothes, and occupy space in his bed.
Was that his idea of a great company?

“What Can I Get For You?” The waitress, a fairly baked cookie with two creampuff pigtails, equipped herself with a notepad and pencil.

“Four coffees. Black.” Shadow Milk Cookie folds his hands, flashing his polite little smile at the waitress.
She nods, taking note as the others listed their orders. “Great. Anything else?”

“That’ll be all.” White Lily Cookie shakes her head.

The waitress nods, and disappears into the kitchen.

“What do you need four coffees for?” Pure Vanilla Cookie tilts his head at the beast.

“Me.” Shadow Milk Cookie crosses his arms. “I like coffee.”

“Can you handle all of that, beast? You’re a bit lacking in size.” Golden Cheese Cookie buts in from the other side of the table, examining him thoughtfully.

Shadow Milk Cookie hissed. “For your information, you oversized chicken, I am pretty big.” He tries to dismiss the fact that he’s flushing with humiliation, catching a soft laugh from Pure Vanilla Cookie beside him.

And worst of all, Dark Cacao Cookie has even raised a brow and curled his lips with amusement.

He will kill them all.

Pure Vanilla Cookie looks like sunshine when he laughs.

It wasn’t long before they quieted down, and their chatter was pacified by the smell of their food being carried to the table.
Shadow Milk Cookie forgot how much he missed coffee. He’d been meaning to get some ever since his freedom, but he didn’t have time .. He had an arch nemesis to kill.
Said Arch nemesis was annoyingly smiling at him and saying.. Something. He wasn’t really paying attention.
Probably asking why he’s on his 6th cup of coffee.

By the time noon came, the group indulged in a bit of day drinking at a cozy little tavern. It was a bit homey for Shadow Milk Cookie’s taste, but the breeze they caught on the balcony was bliss compared to the beaming heat.
He refuses to believe the disorientation was because of those 6 cups of coffee, despite whatever Pure Vanilla Cookie warns him about as he practically carries the jester along and scolds his ears off.

They spend the evening there, playing cards and refilling their glasses until the sun begins to descend upon the horizon, basking the kingdom in dusk.

Shadow Milk Cookie regretfully accepts that this body can not handle alcohol. He digs his nails into the table to anchor himself. Without Pure Vanilla’s arm wrapped gently around his shoulder he probably would’ve toppled over altogether.

“Shadow Milk Cookie.” White Lily pokes the beast, raising a brow.
He sneers. When had she gotten so close? Has she been sitting next to him this entire time?

“Go awaaaaayyyy.” He drawls, leaning ever so slightly away from the cookie.
“I need to– Nevermind.” White Lily Cookie grumbles, getting up to go lean on the balcony railing. She wasn’t going to deal with this nonsense.

Crisis averted. The blue creature takes a swig of whatever alcohol had been put into his cup. He couldn’t remember.

Pure Vanilla Cookie raised a brow at the beast. “That’s my cup, dear.”

Oh.

He looks Pure Vanilla Cookie in the eyes and takes another drink from the cup in question.

The ancient simply responds with a sigh, and turns back to whatever conversation he’d been having with Dark Cacao Cookie.

Shadow Milk Cookie squints up at the sky.
Being surrounded by Pure Vanilla Cookie’s little clique has him feeling.. Disgustingly sentimental.
Was that the word for it?

He slips away from Pure Vanilla Cookie, who doesn’t even seem to notice at first.
After a bit of stumbling, he places his claws on the balcony railing.

If the virtues had grown together similarly to the ancients, would they have lasted?
Will the ancients last forever?

The question sends a shiver down his spine.
Nothing Is Eternal.
That’s what The Herald Of Change wrote to him last, in bold angry letters that seemed almost burned into the page. That was the night he realized it was over.
He had not received a letter from The Bringer Of Happiness in over a month.
He had not received a letter from The Ivory Pagoda’s master in over a year.

The Fount Of Knowledge was utterly.. Alone. More alone than usual.
This kind of alone felt more final, like the closing curtains of a play. He wept in his robes for witches knows how long that night.
He knew what was to come, the cataclysm that would soon descend upon Earthbread as a result of the virtue’s fall.

When times were bleak, and the days started to blend together, he wrote to The Salt Of Solidarity– The Only one who returned his letters as of recently.
He wrote about how sick he was– Mentally, physically. He wrote about how the stars in his hair began to dim, and how the cookies that came to his spire of knowledge did not value the truths he gave them.
He wrote about their friends.
He needed comfort. He needed reassurance.

He grew antsy.

When he received a response, carried in an envelope by a little bluebird, he felt an overwhelming wave of nausea wash over him.

Dear, Fount Of Knowledge

I am sorry to hear what you are going through, truly, but as a virtue you must remember your duty is–

He tore the letter to shreds and stormed onto the balcony of his bedroom. Your duty.
He sobbed, he cursed the moon, and he hoped his shrieks would be heard by the witches. As a Virtue,

Then, The Fount Of knowledge climbed among the balcony railings, and threw himself over the edge. I am sorry to hear what you are going through.

What a liar.

Shadow Milk Cookie felt the evening wind brush past his face, permeating the fabrics he wore over his dough. The balcony railings weren’t very thick, but they were wide enough to stand on. He closes his eyes, and takes a step off of the edge. He waits to feel the impact of cold cobblestone shatter his dough into a million pieces, but that sensation never comes.

Instead, he becomes very aware that he is dangling.
There is something– Someone holding onto his tailcoat.

He opens his eyes.

“SHADOW MILK COOKIE!” Pure Vanilla Cookie is leaning more than halfway off of the balcony, his legs struggling to keep hold of the railing. There’s sweat dripping down his face and arms. He clutches the jester’s tailcoat so tightly, his knuckles turn white.

What an idiot.

The blue cookie dangles awkwardly, the blood rushing to his head. The morning hangover will be legendary, he’s sure of it.

“I can’t—” Pure Vanilla Cookie doesn’t get to finish his sentence, and gravity generously does that for him. His legs begin slipping over the edge, indicating they’ll both be free falling any minute now.

Idiot. Where are his stupid friends?
Just as he suspected, they’ve probably left him out to dry.

But as that thought crosses Shadow Milk’s mind, the familiar shape of a certain white-haired cookie rushes over to grab Pure Vanilla’s ankles.
It’s a little embarrassing how strong she is compared to the two. She yanks them onto the Balcony with a little trial and effort.

The two ancients are left panting by the end of the ordeal, sitting on the ground to let their adrenaline slow down.
Pure Vanilla Cookie looked like he might have a heart attack, but he was already rushing over to grab Shadow Milk by the shoulders and annoyingly question him about how he’s feeling instead of scolding him for being reckless or selfish.
Hollyberry Cookie hurriedly fetches glasses of water for the trio, while Golden Cheese Cookie completely ignores the beast and goes to compliment White Lily Cookie for her excellent reaction time.
Dark Cacao Cookie walks over and mutters something to Pure Vanilla Cookie that Shadow Milk doesn’t catch, and he doesn’t care to.
Shadow Milk Cookie just slumps over, resting his forehead on Pure Vanilla Cookie’s shoulder. Warm hands rub his back, and a soft voice mutters reassurances to him.

He’s exhausted, sore, and intoxicated. It’s time to go home.
Home.. The Vanilla Castle.
When had he started calling it home?

His eyes flutter shut for the last time that night.