The Newcomers

"The old... Vanilla Kingdom?" Hollyberry's voice trembled with disbelief, her eyes widening as she struggled to comprehend the implications of Clotted Cream's revelation.

"The Vanilla Kingdom suffered the most from Dark Enchantress Cookie's war. The entire kingdom had been sealed away until recently." Dark Cacao explained, his voice tinged with a somber tone as he recounted the tragic history of the Dark Flour War.

"Yes, that is true. Fortunately, the Vanillians were able to escape the kingdom before its collapse. They fled on an airship before everything was sealed away. The winds blew in their favor, and they managed to reach a new land." Clotted Cream elaborated, his voice resonating with the weight of the past. "My ancestors were surprised to find this land already inhabited by sea-faring Cookies. The Vanillians offered their knowledge and culture to them. Eventually, the two groups of Cookies came together to build our Crème Republic."

"A Cookie from House Custard?! So there were others who survived! This is such great news! We are honored to welcome you to the Vanilla Kingdom!" Pure Vanilla exclaimed, his eyes gleaming with a mix of awe and excitement.

"The pleasure is all mine, Pure Vanilla Cookie. It is an honor to meet one of the forefathers." Clotted Cream responded, his voice filled with reverence, as he bowed deeply before the Vanilla Kingdom's revered leader.

"Who is that Cookie with you?" Wildberry questioned, his eyes fixed on the figure standing beside Clotted Cream.

"My name is Financier Cookie. I am accompanying Consul Clotted Cream Cookie on his mission." The Paladin introduced herself, her voice carrying a sense of purpose.

"A 'mission?' And I assume this mission of yours is more than just saying hello to your ancestor? Out with-!" Crunchy Chip interjected, his tone filled with skepticism and suspicion, before Mochaccino intervened to maintain decorum.

"Forgive my companion's abruptness. However, it would be wise for us to understand the nature of your intentions before proceeding." Mochaccino interjected, his raised hand silencing Crunchy Chip's brusque remarks.

"Ah, yes, right." Clotted Cream replied, his voice steady and composed. "Have you not gathered here to discuss the course of action regarding Dark Enchantress Cookie? My sole purpose is to provide assistance at this dire hour. As the descendants of the Vanilla Kingdom, the Cookies of the Republic have every right to attend this Council and voice our concerns. We have every reason to join this war against Dark Enchantress Cookie. Not to mention that our resources and armed forces will be of great benefit to the war effort."

"Yes, of course you may join us! Crème Republic, you say? Please, join us! Let us discuss the preparations for this war." Pure Vanilla agreed with a joyful nod, his eyes filled with gratitude and hope.

"Thank you kindly, Pure Vanilla Cookie. And it is an honor to meet you both, Hollyberry Cookie and Dark Cacao Cookie. I am truly at awe that I am in the presence of the Great Heroes. I look forward to finding a solution to this grave threat alongside all of you." Clotted Cream expressed with sincerity, his voice carrying a hint of reverence.

"What a joyous day! Words cannot express how happy I am to meet you all. You must be all exhausted from the long journey here. Please enjoy this feast we have prepared! Let us discuss the exact details when the Council commences tomorrow!" Pure Vanilla extended his hospitality with a warm smile.

After the festivities, Mochaccino felt the need to check up on the progress of Dark Cacao's campgrounds. But before doing so, he accompanied Gingerbrave to explore the castle further. Their explorations led them to Clotted Cream's Chamber, where the atmosphere was serene and inviting.

Clotted Cream's inquisitive gaze fell upon Gingerbrave and Mochaccino as they stood in the grand chamber, remnants of the lavish banquet lingering in the air. "You were at the banquet earlier, correct? How should I address each of you?"

Gingerbrave, with a charismatic grin, introduced himself to Clotted Cream, the words spilling from his lips like drops of honey. "My name's Gingerbrave! And this is Mochaccino Cookie, the Dark Cacao Kingdom's Royal Scientist."

"A pleasure to meet you both. And which kingdom are you from, Gingerbrave?" Clotted Cream asked with intrigue as he sought to uncover the origins of these intriguing visitors.

"I'm from the Cookie Kingdom! It's pretty new, but an awesome place to live!" Gingerbrave proclaimed with fervor, his words tinged with enthusiasm.

"I see! And who is the ruler of this wonderful realm?" Clotted Cream inquired, his interest piqued.

"We don't have one!" Gingerbrave responded, his voice tinged with a hint of surprise.

"Really? I had assumed that Custard Cookie the III governed your territory. But then again, he's too young to assume such responsibilities." Mochaccino mused, his tone laced with a touch of astonishment. "However, the absence of a ruler suggests a harmonious coexistence, where camaraderie prevails."

"That's... a rather positive outlook on things. What is the median income of your nation?" Clotted Cream inquired further, his curiosity unabated.

"Um... Uh, well, everyone is super happy!" Gingerbrave stumbled for a moment, momentarily at a loss for words.

"Remarkable! What do your fellow Cookies for a living?" Clotted Cream inquired further.

"Well, everybody is always busy with something! Some Cookies bake bread, some gather wool, other Cookies mine sugar cubes... And then there are those fighting off Cake Monsters! We work hard every day, that's for sure!" Gingerbrave elucidated, his voice brimming with pride.

"How... wonderful. An intriguing place indeed." Clotted Cream remarked, visibly impressed. However, a momentary pause punctuated his speech, as if he carefully sought the right words. Something that didn't go unnoticed by Mochaccino. "Is this your first time visiting the Vanilla Kingdom?"

"Nope! I've been to many places here and there!" Gingerbrave's eyes twinkled with excitement as he responded.

"Perfect! May I ask you for a tour around the castle then? Perhaps first thing tomorrow morning? I would love to know more about the Vanilla Kingdom, but you see, it is my first time visiting here." Clotted Cream proposed, his expression brimming with anticipation.

"Sure, of course! Piece of cake! You can count on me!" Gingerbrave cheerfully agreed. Suddenly, an idea sparked in his mind, and he turned to Mochaccino, his voice filled with enthusiasm. "Wait, Mochaccino Cookie, you wanted a tour of the castle, right? Why don't you come with us, too?"

Mochaccino's eyes gleamed with intrigue as he considered Gingerbrave's proposition. "Ah, an excellent idea indeed! Very well, I shall gladly accept your invitation. But before we embark on the tour, would you be so kind as to guide me to my quarters? I have yet to acquaint myself with the way."

"Oh right! Follow me." Gingerbrave replied, taking the lead and guiding Mochaccino towards his designated chambers. The echoes of their footsteps resonated through the castle's corridors as they ventured deeper into its grandeur.

"Thank you so much, Gingerbrave! I will see you tomorrow then, and you too, Mochaccino Cookie. I look forward to partaking in the tour alongside you." Clotted Cream bid them farewell, waving with a warm smile before departing, leaving Gingerbrave and Mochaccino in each other's company.

As Gingerbrave swung open the door, a breathtaking sight unfolded before Mochaccino's eyes. The designated room revealed a sanctuary of refined beauty, adorned with elegant furnishings and adorned with sumptuous fabrics.

Bathed in warm, inviting light, every corner exuded a sense of comfort and tranquility. The bed, reminiscent of Mochaccino's own in the Dark Cacao Kingdom, beckoned with an enticing display of extra-fluffy pillows and a plethora of blankets, promising a restful slumber.

"This is your room, Mochaccino Cookie. I'll leave you be for the night. We can explore the rest of the castle tomorrow." Gingerbrave said, turning to leave.

"I won't rest quite yet. I have an obligation to ensure the smooth operation of His Majesty's campgrounds. It is imperative that all preparations are in order." Mochaccino replied dutifully, his sense of responsibility shining through.

"Oh, okay. You go ahead and do that, I need to talk to Pure Vanilla Cookie about something." Gingerbrave acknowledged, his voice brimming with understanding.

With that, Gingerbrave left the room, his footsteps fading into the distance. Meanwhile, outside the castle walls, Mochaccino arrived at Dark Cacao's meticulously arranged campgrounds.

A smile tugged at the corners of his lips as he surveyed the scene before him. The Cream Wolves, in perfect harmony with the Cacao-Droids, had masterfully set up the tents, creating a secure camp outside.

The automatons stood tall and vigilant, poised to repel any encroaching danger that might threaten the camp's tranquility under the veil of night.

As Mochaccino strode into the campsite, his gaze fell upon two particular figures. "Your Majesty and Crunchy Chip Cookie, I perceive that all is in impeccable order." Mochaccino greeted them, his voice resonating with a blend of respect and camaraderie.

"Ah, Mochaccino Cookie, you're just in time." Dark Cacao, acknowledging Mochaccino's arrival with a nod, spoke with a tone tinged with anticipation. "I have finally met my dear comrades of old... But this is only the beginning..."

"Huh? Your Majesty?" Crunchy Chip interjected, seeking clarification.

"My Liege, is something troubling you?" Mochaccino asked, his tone laced with curiosity and concern.

A sense of foreboding emanated from Dark Cacao as he met the questioning gaze of his loyal subject. "I can feel it. The wind of change becoming stronger. Tell me, you two. Are you prepared to face the change?" Dark Cacao's inquiry hung in the air, laden with significance.

"Of course, my lord! No wind can stop your soldiers! You can trust me!" Crunchy Chip proclaimed, his voice brimming with resolute determination.

"As am I, Your Majesty. The citizens of our kingdom have been entrusted to the fortified security system I diligently installed during the preceding months. Rest assured, no force shall breach the shield protecting our land's well-being and prosperity." Mochaccino replied, his unwavering loyalty mirrored in his voice.

Dark Cacao's gaze swept across his steadfast companions, a mixture of pride and gratitude flickering in his eyes. "Ha ha... You are both right. Yes, at this very moment, Dark Cacao Warriors are standing watch atop the Black Wall... My soldiers have my full trust."

Expressing his gratitude, Mochaccino bowed respectfully before his liege. "Thank you, My Liege." he uttered, his voice laced with appreciation. "Now, with everything in order, I shall take my leave to retire in my chamber. I hope my choice of a more comfortable room instead of the campgrounds poses no issue."

"It's fine, Royal Scientist. I understand that you'll overexert yourself if not given the proper resting conditions. The last thing we want is for you to collapse at improper timing." Dark Cacao's eyes softened with understanding as he reassured his Royal Scientist, his voice carrying a tone of compassion.

"Thank you, Your Majesty." Grateful for his liege's understanding, Mochaccino bowed his head once again, a show of deference, before turning on his heel and making his way back toward the castle.

Within the castle's corridors, Mochaccino weaved through the labyrinthine passageways until he reached his designated room. As he entered, a sigh of contentment escaped his lips.

Although weariness had not yet settled upon his form, an unexplainable yearning for respite tugged at his senses. The allure of the marshmallow bed proved irresistible, coaxing him to surrender to its plush embrace.

With a gentle closing of his eyes, Mochaccino succumbed to the tranquil allure of slumber, his body sinking into the softness, a well-deserved rest beckoning him into its soothing depths.

As the first rays of morning sunlight filtered through the window, Mochaccino stirred from his slumber, awoken by the gentle melody of his watch's beeping, signaling the conclusion of his restful respite.

With a languid yawn, he stretched his arms above his head, feeling his muscles slowly come to life, and he cracked his neck, relieving any residual stiffness. A smile bloomed on his countenance as he took in the serene atmosphere surrounding him.

"Ah, what a truly delightful sleep it was." Mochaccino reminisced, his mind still savoring the blissful embrace of the pillowy bed. "Now, to commence the day in earnest, Gingerbrave's tour of the Vanilla Kingdom should be upon me anytime soon."

With a sense of purpose, Mochaccino tended to all his morning rituals, attending to personal hygiene, donning a fresh set of clothes, and indulging in a nourishing breakfast.

As he completed his preparations, a gentle knock echoed through his door, signaling the arrival of an anticipated visitor.

"Come in!" Mochaccino called out, his voice brimming with anticipation, knowing full well who stood on the other side.

Gingerbrave burst into the room with infectious enthusiasm, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "Hi, Mochaccino Cookie!" He exclaimed. "Are you ready for the tour around the Vanilla Kingdom?"

"As ready as can be, my dear friend." Mochaccino replied, a nod of affirmation accompanying his words. "I have just put the finishing touches on my preparations. Now, I believe it is time to meet with Clotted Cream Cookie."

"Sounds good to me! Let's go!" Gingerbrave exclaimed, and together, they left the confines of Mochaccino's room, setting off to locate Clotted Cream and commence their exploration of the Vanilla Kingdom's wonders.

Upon reaching Clotted Cream's chamber, the two eager explorers were met by Financier, the Paladin guardian. Her presence commanded respect, yet a hint of caution lingered in her voice as she inquired. "How may I aid you?"

"Um, hello? I'm Gingerbrave! I promised Clotted Cream Cookie to show him around!" Gingerbrave explained, his words flowing effortlessly, putting Financier at ease.

"And I am Mochaccino Cookie. I, too, shall be accompanying our esteemed friend on this captivating expedition." Mochaccino chimed in, his tone filled with anticipation.

Understanding their purpose, Financier nodded in acknowledgement. "I see. Remain here, please." She advised before turning to inform Clotted Cream of their arrival.

Within a brief span of time, Clotted Cream emerged from his chamber, his charismatic smile lighting up the room. "Good morning, Gingerbrave! Good Morning, Mochaccino Cookie!" He greeted them warmly, his voice carrying an undertone of gratitude. "Thank you for coming."

"Don't mention it! The weather is gorgeous today. Perfect for a tour around the kingdom!" Gingerbrave responded, eyes gleaming with excitement, his voice brimming with anticipation.

"I can attest to that. My trusty Storm Tracker Device assures us that no rain or tempestuous clouds shall mar our path. We can proceed with utmost certainty, reveling in the warmth and serenity of this delightful day." Mochaccino chimed in, his confidence evident as he spoke.

Clotted Cream's curiosity piqued at the mention of the Storm Tracker Device. "I cannot wait! And it seems that I have chosen the perfect Cookie to be my guide! And a pocket device that tracks storms? How interesting."

Gingerbrave, embracing his role as guide, pondered for a moment before a spark of inspiration illuminated his features. "You sure did! Alright, where should we start?" Gingerbrave pondered, stopping to think for a moment before answering. "Oh, the Crow's Nest Inn would make for a great place to begin. Let's go!"