The Close Call
Affogato, driven by a treacherous agenda, approached Dark Cacao with deceptive words poised upon his tongue. "Your Majesty." He began, his voice a honeyed lure laced with falsehoods.
"A little bird has told me that the First Watcher has been shirking her duties and lollygagging at the villages, handing out rations most likely stolen from the citadel's pantries."
Indignant, Caramel Arrow interjected, her voice tinged with frustration as she defended her actions. "There is no truth to these claims. It was my own rations that I decided to share and my own time I've invested in order to keep our lands safe!"
Affogato seized upon her words, skillfully twisting them to fuel his manipulative game. "How impetuous! Are you accusing this humble court of failing to serve our Cookies? Are you implying that His Majesty's aides are selfish, greedy, and conniving?"
Caramel Arrow's protests fell upon deaf ears as Affogato adeptly worked his web of deceit, swaying the Gathered Retainers to his side with his carefully spun narrative. Frustration welled within Caramel Arrow, the injustice of the situation weighing heavily upon her spirit.
In a venomous tone, Affogato spat his words, his true intentions hidden behind a veil of false concern. "If loitering outside these walls is what you enjoy, why not be repositioned as First Snow Plower?"
His words dripped with disdain, lashing at Caramel Arrow's core. "My Liege, I believe it wise that this lackadaisical Cookie before you be banished from our stalwart citadel."
Dark Cacao's response was curt, his voice carrying the weight of his authority. "So be it."
"My King?! Please, my King, I am—" Caramel Arrow, desperate to plead her case, attempted to interject, but her words were cut off by the resonating voice of the King.
"Caramel Arrow Cookie, heed my words. You need not return. Your spirit has always been one with the wilds, akin to the deer roaming the frost-ridden mountains. This is my final verdict—"
However, an unexpected interruption shattered the tense atmosphere. The grand doors of the King's Throne Room swung open with a resounding boom as Mochaccino burst onto the scene.
Having caught wind of the unfolding events through one of his Cacao-Drones' microphones, he stormed forward, determined to lend his support to the beleaguered First Watcher.
Mochaccino, with a fiery determination burning in his eyes, marched towards the center of the Throne Room, his presence commanding attention. The air crackled with anticipation as he prepared to challenge the verdict that had been hastily passed.
"I object!" Mochaccino's voice was loud and clear as it echoed throughout the room. All eyes turned towards him, including Dark Cacao, whose gaze rested on his brilliant Royal Scientist.
Taking a moment to explain, Mochaccino continued, his voice unwavering. "Your Majesty, with all due respect, this trial betrays the very idea of a fair judgment. Craramel Arrow Cookie is the most loyal of the Watchers, and we both know it. She'd never lower herself to the levels of a thief who takes from their kingdom."
A flicker of doubt crossed Dark Cacao's face, his stoic countenance momentarily giving way to introspection. The weight of Mochaccino's words bore down upon him, causing him to question the hasty decision he had made.
"And what evidence do you present to support your claims, Mochaccino Cookie?" Affogato interjected, his voice dripping with skepticism.
"Funny, I was going to ask you the same thing, Affogato. Tell me, who is this 'little bird' you're talking about? Surely, you would have brought them to the trial to support your own claims, correct?" Mochaccino argued.
Affogato scowled, using all his will to try and keep his composure. A 4D chess game with Mochaccino was not going to be easy. He was up against the Black Citadel's most brilliant mind, and his chances of coming out victorious were slim.
Mochaccino's eyes gleamed with determination as he locked gazes with Affogato, the air thick with tension. The courtroom seemed to hold its breath, awaiting the next move in this battle of wits.
"I see your silence speaks volumes, Affogato," Mochaccino continued, his voice laced with a mixture of confidence and accusation. "No evidence, no credible witnesses. Just baseless accusations and a thinly veiled attempt to discredit Caramel Arrow Cookie."
Affogato's facade wavered for an instant, his control slipping. He clenched his fists, his knuckles turning white, but quickly regained his composure, a mask of calculated indifference settling upon his features.
"Your words may be eloquent, Mochaccino Cookie, but they lack substance," Affogato retorted, his voice tinged with a hint of frustration. "I assure you, my sources are reliable. The truth will reveal itself in due time."
Mochaccino's eyes narrowed, his mind racing with strategies to expose Affogato's machinations. He knew that evidence was crucial to dismantle Affogato's carefully crafted scheme, but he had to tread carefully. One misstep, and everything could crumble.
"I propose a fair investigation, Your Majesty," Mochaccino suggested, his tone respectful but firm. "Let us gather the truth through an unbiased inquiry, where evidence can be presented and witnesses can testify. Only then can justice prevail."
Dark Cacao observed the exchange, his gaze shifting between Mochaccino and Affogato. The weight of the decision pressed heavily upon him, his duty as the king pulling him in conflicting directions.
After the storm of emotions had settled, Dark Cacao's wearied voice broke the silence. "Very well, Mochaccino Cookie. I grant your request for an investigation under the benefit of the doubt."
"I bestow upon you the task of uncovering the truth behind these accusations, but only due to your position as the Royal Scientist and most trustworthy Cookies in the Black Citadel." His words carried a weighty mix of determination and exhaustion, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
Mochaccino, fully aware of the stakes, nodded solemnly, accepting the immense responsibility that now rested upon his shoulders. The fate of Caramel Arrow, as well as the integrity and stability of the entire kingdom, hinged on the success of his inquiry.
As the air cleared, a ray of hope shone in Caramel Arrow's eyes. Mochaccino's intervention had breathed new life into her spirit, dispelling the darkness of doubt that had shrouded her.
She knew that with Mochaccino as her ally, the truth would soon be revealed, restoring her innocence and rectifying the injustice that had been wrought upon her.
But, the respite was short-lived as Dark Cacao interjected once again, his voice carrying a tone of caution and suspicion. "However, I order that Caramel Arrow Cookie remains within the confines of this castle. In light of the accusations, she must be kept under constant surveillance to prevent any further potential wrongdoing."
Mochaccino bowed his head respectfully, acknowledging the conditions set forth by His Majesty. "Understood, My Liege." He replied, his tone unwavering. "Cacao-Droids, escort her to my laboratory and guide her to the place where she'll be under 24/7 surveillance until further notice."
Two Cacao-Droids, their sleek frames glinting in the dim light, stepped forward with an air of unwavering precision.
They guided Caramel Arrow, their captive, through a labyrinthine maze of corridors until they arrived at what appeared to be a heavily fortified cell. However, appearances can be deceiving.
Unknown to everyone else, the "cell" concealed a secret. Behind its formidable exterior, Mochaccino's ingenious quarters awaited, a bedroom crafted with the utmost care.
Soft pillows, adorned with delicate patterns, beckoned invitingly, while blankets of the finest fabric cascaded across the room. It was a haven of comfort and tranquility that seemed destined for the sole purpose of indulging in restful slumber.
The following morning, Caramel Arrow awoke, opening her eyes in her supposed confinement. Ironically, she felt as if she had experienced the most rejuvenating sleep of her life, a blissful respite that left her pondering the duration of her unconsciousness.
Casting her gaze upon the nearby clock, she discovered the shocking truth: she had succumbed to sleep for twelve whole uninterrupted hours, a testament to the comfort of her surroundings. Then again, this was Mochaccino's room.
Mochaccino, being a Cookie hailing from the Coffee Tribe, was notorious for his aversion to slumber. Even when he was extremely exhausted, he would tirelessly devote himself to inventing, concocting innovative solutions to his every challenge.
Thus, every aspect of his bedchamber was meticulously designed to envelop its occupant in unparalleled comfort, a cocoon of irresistible coziness intended to lull even the most stubborn insomniac into the embrace of restful dreams.
It was a sanctuary that guaranteed Mochaccino's prolonged absence, particularly after an arduous day (or days) of tireless work.
Typically, Mochaccino's sleep lasted a mere eight hours, never exceeding that threshold. Yet, in the case of Caramel Arrow, she had unwittingly experienced a miraculous slumber that extended beyond twelve hours.
However, as an ordinary Cookie devoid of the vaster energy of a Coffee Tribe member, it was only natural for her body to surrender to an extended rest in the embrace of such a sumptuous bed. Four additional hours, to be more exact.
Shaking off the lingering allure of the bed's embrace, Caramel Arrow exerted herself to break free from the clutches of the plush blankets, a task that required some effort due to their vice-like grip on her.
Finally managing to disentangle herself, she rose from the bed, her muscles protesting the departure from the realm of soft comfort.
Determined, she ventured out of Mochaccino's bedroom, only to be met by the sight of two watchful Cacao-Droids stationed outside.
"Good morning, Miss Caramel Arrow Cookie." One of the Cacao-Droids greeted with a respectful bow.
In acknowledgment, Caramel Arrow nodded, returning the greeting with politeness of her own. "Good morning, Cacao-Droid. Could you inform me of Mochaccino Cookie's location? I wish to discuss with him regarding my case."
"Mochaccino Cookie is presently in his laboratory, Caramel Arrow Cookie. If you want to meet him at once, please follow us." The other Cacao-Droid responded, its voice crisp and clear, but still robotic.
With their guidance, Caramel Arrow embarked on the short journey to the Royal Scientist's lab, situated conveniently nearby.
As they traversed the corridor, a sense of awe enveloped her, emanating from the multitude of boards adorned with bewildering equations and intricate formulas.
While comprehending only a fraction of the complex symbols displayed before her, the sheer complexity of Mochaccino's work fascinated her nonetheless.
Familiar with witnessing Mochaccino toil into the late hours of the night, sometimes for days on end, she marveled at his unwavering capacity to remain alert and composed, despite the deprivation of sleep.
Eventually, they reached the end of the hallway, where Mochaccino sat behind his desk, engrossed in scribbling notes on a pad while simultaneously analyzing video footage on a nearby screen, switching between the two tasks with remarkable dexterity.
As Mochaccino raised his gaze, his face transformed into a radiant expression of delight. "Ah! Good morning, Caramel Arrow Cookie!" he exclaimed, waving at her with an exuberant grin.
Caramel Arrow mirrored his joy, her smile lighting up her features as she replied, "Good morning, Mochaccino Cookie. You seem immersed in your work as always, though that's hardly a surprise."
He nodded, acknowledging her observation. "Indeed. I have been conducting extensive research pertaining to the case, and I must say... our triumph is virtually assured. By utilizing the footage captured by the discreet camera embedded within your uniform, I—"
"Wait, what?" Caramel Arrow interjected, raising an inquisitive eyebrow. "Are you implying that there is a recording of the entire incident, including what occurred before the attack?"
Mochaccino affirmed her suspicion with a nod. "Yes, Caramel Arrow Cookie. Concealed as a virtually unsuspecting button, the device captures all events within a twenty-meter radius. I now realize I should have told you about its existence earlier, but..."
Caramel Arrow sighed, gently shaking her head. "It's all right. Thank you for disclosing this to me, although it would have been preferable to be aware of the camera's presence from the start..."
"Well, my apologies for the oversight. Nonetheless, now that we possess irrefutable evidence, our victory is all but guaranteed," Mochaccino assured her confidently, his smile brimming with assurance.
Relief washed over Caramel Arrow, prompting a deep exhalation. "That's good to hear."
Changing the subject, Mochccino referred to his notes. "I have compiled a list of testimonies to counter any potential accusations Affogato Cookie may bring forth, along with a detailed report on the progress of the investigation."
"Would you prefer to review them yourself, or shall I provide you with a thorough overview?" Mochaccino inquired.
After a moment of contemplation, Caramel Arrow responded, "No, I have faith in your ability to do justice to the case. I trust your judgment."
"Very well, then. I shall proceed to document my findings and research, sending the report directly to Dark Cacao Cookie." Mochaccino said, continuing to write down notes.
"For now, it is imperative that you remain here until we receive confirmation that you are cleared to resume your duties as the First Watcher of the Royal Guard. As soon as I receive word, you will be informed." He explained, his voice resolute and determined.
"Understood," Caramel Arrow affirmed, her head nodding in acknowledgment. "Thank you, Mochaccino Cookie."
"You're welcome, Caramel Arrow Cookie. And, I possess evidence that will undoubtedly expose Affogato Cookie's true nature," Mochaccino disclosed, a tinge of disappointment coloring his words. "Yesterday, he denied assistance to a young Cookie in dire need, jeopardizing their entire village. The audacity!"
Caramel Arrow expressed her agreement with a firm nod. "That deceitful snake would be the last Cookie I would expect to extend aid to any innocent inhabitant of the Black Citadel. How did you come by this knowledge of Affogato Cookie's negligence?"
"Thanks to one of my Cacao-Droids, I received an alert detailing his actions. Without that timely message, the young Cookie's village would have suffered gravely. Fortunately, I dispatched several Cacao-Drones to rectify the situation, minimizing injuries and preventing any loss of life." Mochaccino revealed.
"I'm relieved to hear that. Truly, you are the beacon of light in our kingdom, Mochaccino Cookie." Caramel Arrow commended him warmly, her smile radiating appreciation.
Mochaccino returned her smile, rising from his seat. "If only I had access to more materials, I could produce additional Cacao-Droids and distribute them throughout the realm, safeguarding more Cookies in need. Alas, my endeavors are restricted by the limited resources at my disposal."
"You have done all that is within your power, Mochaccino Cookie, and that is more than enough. You have already protected countless lives." Caramel Arrow assured him, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder.
"Still, I yearn to do more." Mochaccino lamented with a sigh. "If only I could fasten the arrival of shipments containing the remaining scraps from the Vanilla Kingdom, I could amass enough materials to construct another batch of Cacao-Droids. Such an endeavor would enable me to save even more lives."
Caramel Arrow nodded in understanding. "For now, focus on fortifying the Great Chocolate Walls around the Black Citadel. The monsters from the Licorice Sea grow increasingly formidable, and although your integrated electrical field bolsters our defenses, we can't let our guard falter."
"I understand. I shall dedicate myself to ensuring the safety of our kingdom." Mochaccino pledged, bowing his head in determination. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I must return to my—"
Mochaccino's words were abruptly cut off as his attention was captured by another notification that materialized in his inbox. With a sense of urgency, he opened the message, revealing a distressing report.
A sensor positioned outside the Black Citadel had been triggered, indicating the presence of a menacing Frozen Peak Prowler engaging in a ferocious assault on five defenseless Cookies.
"Five Cookies are in danger! I must act immediately!" Mochaccino declared, his voice resolute as he propelled himself out of the room. "Cacao-Droids, safeguard the evidence and permit no one to tamper with it!"
"Understood." The two Cacao-Droids acknowledged in unison, dutifully adhering to Mochaccino's command.
However, just as Mochaccino prepared to hasten away, he felt a firm grip on his arm—it was Caramel Arrow. "Wait, Mochaccino Cookie. I implore you to allow me to accompany you. I cannot stand idly by while those five Cookies are in jeopardy." She besought, gently tugging at his sleeve.
"...Very well, but only for a brief interval. We remain uncertain of the Frozen Peak Prowler's timetable." Mochaccino reasoned, consenting to her request and permitting her to join him.
Together, they hurried toward the entrance of the Black Citadel, utilizing a clandestine path that Mochaccino had meticulously devised for moments of crisis.
As they emerged outside the citadel's protective walls, Mochaccino and Caramel Arrow were met with a harrowing sight, the five Cookies under attack: Gingerbrave, Strawberry Cookie, Wizard Cookie, Custard Cookie III, and Chili Pepper Cookie.