The Investigation

As the conversation unfolded, the Cacao-Droid diligently recorded every word exchanged. Clotted Cream, with a relieved countenance, approached the group.

"Strawberry Crepe Cookie, Espresso Cookie! I have been searching for you!" He exclaimed, his voice brimming with genuine relief.

"Oh! 2% Connivingness! Come in!" Strawberry Crepe greeted with a touch of playful sarcasm, bestowing their own mocking nickname upon Clotted Cream.

"...Yet again, you see right through me, young friend. Ha ha!" Clotted Cream replied, his demeanor maintaining its unyielding politeness in the face of Strawberry Crepe's jest. "Hm, I wonder... Have you ever analyzed any of the Ancient Heroes' dough? An inquisitive mind such as yourself must have found them rather fascinating!"

"I tried, ALRIGHT! But even my superb equipment has its limits against them! Some kind of overwhelming power almost fried it! And I never tried again ever since..." Strawberry Crepe explained, a tinge of frustration seeping into their words.

"'Overwhelming power," you say...?" Clotted Cream repeated, his features contorted in contemplation as he processed this newfound revelation.

"Strawberry Crepe Cookie, you should see this...! One of the Wafflebots broke down while helping us build a house!" A distressed villager suddenly burst into their midst, racing towards the group with an anxious expression etched upon their face.

With a begrudging sigh, Strawberry Crepe found themselves compelled to abandon the ongoing conversation and lend a hand to the troubled Cookie. "WHAT? Did you feed the robot yucky raisins again?! They are PRECISION TOOLS! I told you A HUNDRED TIMES that you should treat them with CAUTION! UGH! Guess I must go and fix it, AGAIN! SO LONG!"

Observing as Strawberry Crepe departed to assist the villager, Clotted Cream turned his attention back to Espresso. "The Ancients' dough... Overwhelming power... What on Earthbread could Soul Jam be?" He pondered aloud, his mind consumed by deep contemplation.

"The data we've managed to gather indicated that Soul Jam's main component could be Life Powder. Highly compressed, this Life Powder - enriched jam crystallized into a hard candy - like state bearing the energy of Life itself." Espresso elucidated, his voice maintaining its customary professional timbre. "However, despite our best efforts, we were unable to identify neither the origin of this substance nor how it was introduced to the Cookie Continent. What we know for certain is that primordial Cookies regarded the Soul Jam as a gift from the gods."

"Power of an unknown origin... No wonder those who wield it are called 'Heroes.'" Clotted Cream murmured, his voice tinged with a mixture of reverence and awe.

"I will summarize our findings in a written report, sir." Espresso declared, retrieving his trusty pen and notebook from the recesses of his coat pocket.

"Thank you. Until next time." Clotted Cream acknowledged, setting off in search of another individual.

"Target's objective confirmed: Analysis of Soul Jam's composition. Preliminary research suggests that the primary ingredient in Soul Jam is an intensely concentrated form of Life Powder. Information remains incomplete. Proceed with target's investigation." The ever-vigilant Cacao-Droid murmured, faithfully trailing Clotted Cream as he embarked on his next endeavor.

Leaping gracefully from rooftop to rooftop, as light-footed as a feather, the Cacao-Droid maintained a cautious distance, deftly concealing itself or blending into the surroundings whenever Clotted Cream glanced in its direction.

Failure was not an option, and thus, it had to exercise utmost care to evade detection. Observing as Clotted Cream entered the Solarium of Unity, the Cacao-Droid lingered a few seconds behind, ensuring its presence remained concealed while keeping a watchful eye on its target.

Once within the sanctum, it scoured the surroundings, seeking an optimal vantage point to surreptitiously observe Clotted Cream.

As it meticulously sought out an ideal position to maintain discreet surveillance, it commenced recording the forthcoming conversation, faithfully carrying out its mission.

"Ser Madeleine Cookie. It is strange to find you here in the Solarium of Unity all by yourself. Were you... sightseeing?" Clotted Cream inquired, his voice carrying a touch of intrigue as he approached Madeleine from behind.

"Take a look, sire! Figures of the Five Heroes on the stained glass... Odd, is it not? The size and shape of these windows, the look of this glass... It all resembles the Republican style." Madeleine marveled, his tone brimming with awe as he gestured towards the vibrant panels capturing the essence of the Five Heroes.

"True! Indeed, we are at the origin of our culture, my friend. Seeing with my own eyes where it all began is, by all means, humbling. Wistful, even." Clotted Cream mused, his gaze locked upon the figures of the Five Heroes gracefully etched upon the stained glass.

"Have you had a chance to visit our home, Mansion Madeleine, sir? I cannot help but reminisce its azure carpets and airy windows shedding warm sunlight..." Madeleine's eyes shimmered with tender affection, his voice filled with fond recollection.

"Home..." Clotted Cream echoed softly, his mind traversing distant memories. "Ser Madeleine Cookie, I have been meaning to ask... What was the reason for you and your... colleague's departure from the Crème Republic? How did it happen that the two of you - Cookies of great merit without a doubt - were chosen among other Paladins and scientists?"

"Oh, it happened before your appointment as Consul, sire. I trust you are well aware of the so-called 'Light Fragment Incident,' right?" Madeleine posed the question, prompting a knowing nod from Clotted Cream. Encouraged, Madeleine pressed on. "Though it was just the slightest sliver of a Light Fragment, it could have resulted in our glorious Republic being completely wiped off the map!"

"Yes, yes, of course. And it is you and Espresso Cookie we have to thank for our salvation, correct? And in the end, it was confirmed that the Light Fragments were, in fact, pieces of shattered Soul Jam?" Clotted Cream remarked, his inquiry more a confirmation than an interrogation.

"Yes, sir. Soul Jam shattered during the Dark Flour War, to be precise. A war Dark Enchantress Cookie started to gain control of all existing Soul Jam. Thanks to the Ancient Heroes' collective efforts, the world as we know it exist to this day. However, the pieces of Soul Jam were scattered across the entire continent." Madeleine responded, his countenance marked by a solemn frown.

"Could there be more of these Light Fragments in this land that are yet to be discovered? If such great power were to fall in the wrong hands... Without a doubt, it will cause catastrophic events!" Clotted Cream voiced his apprehensions. "If but a small fraction of Soul Jam is capable of destroying the Crème Republic, finding and securing the remaining pieces is a matter of grave importance!

"Thank you for sharing this with me. It seems like this puzzle is finally coming together... Then why don't we..." He trailed off, expecting Madeleine to accompany him. However, to his surprise, the esteemed Cookie remained rooted in place. "Hm? Are you not coming, Ser Madeleine Cookie?"

"I'd like to stay a bit more and look at the stained glass! Please, do not wait for me and go first, sire!" Madeleine graciously excused himself, his gaze transfixed upon the vibrant tapestries of colored glass.

"Very well! It was a pleasure, Ser Madeleine Cookie." Clotted Cream acknowledged, offering a small nod and bow before turning away.

From its concealed vantage point, the watchful Cacao-Droid meticulously cataloged the wealth of information acquired during the exchange.

"Target's objective has been identified. Target prioritizes the retrieval and safeguarding of the remaining Soul Jam fragments." It murmured in a hushed voice, its internal processes working with fervent efficiency.

"Cacao-Droid, do you read me?" Mochaccino's voice reverberated within the recesses of the automaton's systems.

"Yes, creator Mochaccino Cookie." It responded, awaiting further instructions.

"Return to His Majesty's Campgrounds and deliver an immediate status report. Dark Cacao Cookie demands swift and discreet action. Make haste and arrive without delay. Over." Mochaccino issued the command, prompting the Cacao-Droid to swiftly embark upon its assigned mission.

Within the confines of the Dark Cacao Campgrounds, Mochaccino found himself engrossed in the customary weekly health assessment of Dark Cacao.

"Your strawberry jam exhibits a commendable level of vitality. Your core temperature rests comfortably within the safe threshold. Your bones and dough possess a robust resilience, free from any fragility, and no pressing health concerns demand immediate attention." Mochaccino meticulously observed, recording his findings in meticulous detail.

"And what of the Cacao-Droid dispatched on the investigation regarding Clotted Cream Cookie? Have there been any noteworthy developments?" Dark Cacao inquired, his regal tone tinged with curiosity.

"Your Majesty, I have previously briefed you on the matter. The Cacao-Droid is en route to our campgrounds as we speak. It should arrive at any moment now." Mochaccino responded, unwavering in his focus on analyzing Dark Cacao's health.

"Let's see... Your condition appears to be optimal. That shall conclude today's assessment, Your Majesty." He concluded his report, setting aside his pen and notebook, whick looked an awful lot like the one Espresso had earlier.

Promptly, the Cacao-Droid materialized within the chamber, bowing respectfully before its creator and the sovereign.

"Speaking of which... Cacao-Droid, provide a status report and a succinct summary of the investigation. Upload the recorded data to my personal tablet for subsequent analysis." Mochaccino instructed, extending his tablet towards the automaton.

With a nod of compliance, the Cacao-Droid commenced delivering its report to the two Cookies, its sentences concise and informative

"Clotted Cream Cookie endeavors to recover scattered fragments of Soul Jam. The subject's intentions imply a desire to experiment with the fragments. Moreover, a fascination with the Ancient Heroes' Soul Jam suggests an ambition to harness its formidable power." It explained, its voice cold and calculating.

"Thank you. Now, proceed to download the complete video and audio footage of the investigation to my tablet." Mochaccino directed, his words firm and resolute, urging the automaton to depart and privately upload the crucial data.

"So, our suspicions haven't been for naught." Dark Cacao observed, a touch of melancholy tingeing his voice now that his fears had been substantiated.

"Indeed, Your Majesty. Our instincts were well-founded," Mochaccino confirmed, his nod accompanied by a calculating gaze. "Clotted Cream Cookie intends to harness the potent Soul Jam of the Ancient Heroes: Hollyberry Cookie, Pure Vanilla Cookie, and, of course, you, My Liege."

"What shall be our course of action? Do we confront Clotted Cream Cookie or continue the investigation to gather further insights into his intentions?" He asked, awaiting His Majesty's orders.

"...I have learned the perils of hasty accusations. Until we possess solid evidence, Clotted Cream Cookie shall remain a potential ally." Dark Cacao declared, caution coating his voice.

"Nevertheless, I advise you and your vigilant Cacao-Droids to maintain close surveillance on him. My trust in him remains uncertain. We may deliberate further after the promised sparring match, which will follow the second council meeting." He added, dismissing Mochaccino from his duties for the moment until the second Council Meeting.

"As you wish, Your Majesty." Mochaccino acknowledged, his features hardening as he mentally noted the necessity of instructing his loyal Cacao-Droids to exercise unwavering vigilance over Clotted Cream Cookie.

Moments later, the entire assembly congregated within the grand Council Hall, its ornate architecture lending an air of gravity to the proceedings. Pure Vanilla, standing at the forefront, announced the commencement of the momentous event.

"It seems like everyone is here...Then let the second session begin! Today, we must decide which kingdom will lead the expedition to the continent of Beast-Yeast in search of Dark Enchantress Cookie. Is everyone the same opinion as yesterday?" His gaze swept across the gathered Cookies, seeking affirmation.

"Of course! We can handle any danger!" Hollyberry declared, her voice resonating with unwavering confidence.

"No, our warriors are better suited for this mission!" Dark Cacao proclaimed, his visage resolute and his tone unyielding.

"If I may, please? The Crème Republic has a new preposition. We believe it is in everyone's best interest to select the fittest candidates from each nation for combined action. Each one of us has its strengths and weaknesses. Playing these cards smart seems to be the optimal course of action." Clotted Cream interjected, his voice imbued with respect and reassurance, his gaze encompassing the entirety of the assembly.

"Combined action...?" Wildberry murmured, his words barely audible.

"Go together with the Hollyberrians? Hm..." Crunchy Chip contemplated, his brow furrowed in deep thought.

"It does appear to be the most strategically sound choice, does it not?" Mochaccino interjected, his voice resonating with a hint of conviction.

"What a great preposition! After all, we all share the responsibility to save our world! Our goal is one: protecting Cookiekind from Dark Enchantress Cookie's evil!" Pure Vanilla exclaimed, his voice infused with a blend of optimism and genuine warmth.

"Then when do we start? Who's willing to make contact with the dragons?" Hollyberry posed, her voice carrying a mixture of determination and curiosity.

"Before we proceed further, there is another matter I would like us to discuss." Clotted Cream interjected, his countenance growing grave."As our esteemed Pure Vanilla Cookie mentioned, indeed, we all share a collective responsibility. We must provide the Expedition with everything necessary to ensure its success. These Cookies will need power to fight and protect themselves. But where to find such power? We believe there is a solution..."

"And what is this... solution?" Dark Cacao inquired, his eyes narrowing as he shifted his gaze towards Mochaccino.

The king and the royal scientist locked eyes, their expressions mirroring a shared skepticism, a silent understanding of what Clotted Cream was about to propose.

"There is no source of power greater than the Soul Jam harnessed by the Five Ancient Heroes. But what if this Soul Jam could be divided and shared by all? Imagine the possibilities!" Clotted Cream expounded, his voice resonating with conviction. "Yes, it will be no easy feat to perform such a procedure here. But it could be done with the help of the Crème Republic's technological advancements! So I ask forthright. Will you share your Soul Jam for the greater good?"

"I beg your pardon?" Pure Vanilla interjected, taking a step back, taken aback by the audacious request.

"What?! You want the Soul Jam?!" Hollyberry exclaimed, her eyes widening in sheer disbelief.

"Are you out of your mind?!" Dark Cacao thundered, slamming his fists upon the table, his voice echoing with a mix of incredulity and anger.

"Just as I suspected... Clotted Cream Cookie's intense fascination, or rather, his disturbing obsession with the Soul Jam, foreshadowed this very request." Mochaccino remarked, a bitter frown etched upon his face. "So, it appears that both His Majesty and I were justified in our apprehensions."

"What? You knew he was gonna ask for it?" Crunchy Chip questioned, his gaze fixed upon the Royal Scientist, an expression of surprise mingling with curiosity.

"Not precisely. I merely deduced his intentions based on the findings of one of my Cacao-Droids during their investigation into his character." Mochaccino clarified, his tone measured.

"Doesn't that breach privacy boundaries?" Wildberry interjected, crossing his arms in a stance of skepticism.

"If you had reason to suspect that Clotted Cream Cookie coveted Hollyberry Cookie's Soul Jam, how would you proceed?" Mochaccino countered, his words carrying a hint of rhetorical challenge.

"...Fair point." Wildberry conceded, his initial skepticism softened as he began to comprehend the underlying reasoning behind the Royal Scientist's actions.

"Do you even realize what you're asking for? Wars started because of Soul Jam! This is insanity!" Hollyberry's voice quivered with a mixture of caution and disbelief, her words laden with frustration and a touch of righteous anger.

"What a preposterous idea! To share our Soul Jam?! Impossible!" Dark Cacao thundered, his voice resounding with an intensity surpassing all others.

"Clotted Cream Cookie. I trust this is not all you have to say. There must be another reason for your proposition, isn't there?" Pure Vanilla interjected, seeking to defuse the escalating tension.

"Venerable Heroes! Believe me, I understand completely how outlandish my proposition might sound." Clotted Cream acknowledged, his lips twitching as he fought to maintain his composure. "However, allow me to remind you that one of the main purposes of this Council is to find means to guarantee the success of our endeavor. Just a fraction of your strength divided among our forces will dramatically increase the chances of our survival."

"Please forgive my interruption, Consul. Espresso Cookie and I have just returned from another expedition." Madeleine declared, his entrance into the Council Hall accompanied by a palpable air of concern that radiated from his eyes and resonated within his voice. "We have witnessed the might of Dark Enchantress Cookie's armies firsthand: hordes of monsters from other dimensions under her control!"

"There are Cookies in dire need of our help all across the world! And we must do all in our power to provide aid! We have warriors fighting as we speak at the far frontiers of Earthbread. They need weapons, they need this strength!" He implored with increasing urgency, the gravity of the situation settling upon the hearts of all those present.

"Yes, yes, we understand! Of course, we must help everyone! But you are asking us to hand over our Soul Jam to you and your Republic! Why?" Hollyberry demanded, her voice firm, her arms folded across her chest in a stance of defense.

"Advanced equipment is required to analyze the Soul Jam. Only the Crème Republic has such scientific capabilities." Espresso interjected. Sensing Mochaccino's skeptical gaze and crossed arms, he swiftly amended his statement. "...That is not to imply that the Dark Cacao Kingdom lacks advanced technologies due to the Royal Scientist's presence, but even then."

"And you need all three? Just one would be more than enough!" Pure Vanilla interjected, his voice resonating with a tone of reason, as if attempting to engage with a group of mischievous children or even pets.

"We believe that your Soul Jam has neither common properties, nor shows a common activation mechanism. That is why it is crucial to have all available Soul Jam studied before we can distribute it among our forces." Espresso retorted, his voice resolute and unwavering.

"Madness!" Dark Cacao scoffed, his voice dripping with derision as a pulsating vein throbbed on his forehead, betraying his mounting anger.

"Hmm... No, that won't do." Hollyberry dismissed with a shake of her head, her eyes glinting with a mixture of doubt and skepticism.

"I am perfectly aware how difficult this decision might be. However... The shadow of war is hanging over us! Think of all the Cookies who we may lose to this war; think about our beautiful world we might lose. Would you not give everything to protect all that is dear to you...?" Clotted Cream implored, his expression softening as he made his heartfelt plea.

"Three Ancient Heroes harness the power of Soul Jam. But there are immeasurably more Cookies who risk losing their lives in the war to come! The enemy they will oppose is mighty and knows no mercy. What chance would they stand without the power of Soul Jam?" He added, his words resonating with a profound appeal to the compassion and empathy of the assembled Cookies.

"I tire of listening to this nonsense. Enough is enough." Dark Cacao growled, his temper flaring dangerously as he abruptly turned and stormed out of the Council Hall, his departure leaving a lingering air of tension behind.

"But you want to take our Soul Jam away for your "research"... I'm afraid I can't let that happen." Hollyberry stated firmly, her gaze unwavering as she fixed her eyes upon Dark Cacao's retreating form.

"...My friends...!" Pure Vanilla called out, his voice filled with a plea for unity and understanding, but his words fell upon deaf ears as both Hollyberry and Dark Cacao remained steadfast in their resolve, refusing to turn back.

"...To end the Council on such a negative note..." Clotted Cream muttered under his breath, his disappointment palpable in his tone.

Outside the Council Hall, Dark Cacao, Crunchy Chip, and Mochaccino huddled together, engaging in a heated discussion regarding the outcome of the council meeting.

"Ugh! The never of that guy! Who does he think he is?! Asking His Majesty for his Soul Jam!" Crunchy Chip exclaimed, his hands clenched tightly into fists as his frustration simmered.

"In all honesty, Crunchy Chip Cookie, I understand your sentiments to some extent. However, we cannot afford to waste precious time being consumed by our frustrations." Mochaccino interjected, his expression weighed down by a somber gravity. "We must explore alternative options if we are to avoid the necessity of relinquishing His Majesty's Soul Jam."

"You're right! The warriors of the Dark Cacao Kingdom know no surrender! We will not yield to that Cookie's demands and his ludicrous plan!" Crunchy Chip declared, his voice filled with determination as he vigorously nodded in agreement.

"Both of you, set the matter aside for now. Dwelling on it will not yield any productive results." Dark Cacao scolded, his arms crossed sternly over his chest.

"Your frustration is understandable, My Liege. Perhaps engaging in our scheduled sparring match will serve as a cathartic release for your accumulated stress. I have identified a barren terrain not far from your campgrounds that would be ideal." Mochaccino proposed, skillfully redirecting the conversation towards a different topic before any further arguments could ensue.

"Yes... I did promise you a test of your mettle, did I not?" Dark Cacao responded, a touch of calmness entering his voice as his mind momentarily shifted its focus towards the upcoming sparring session.

"His Majesty and the Royal Scientist versing each other in battle?! Well, now I gotta see this!" Crunchy Chip exclaimed, his eyes sparkling with a mix of excitement and anticipation.

Crunchy Chip's exclamation reverberated through the air, catching the attention of nearby villagers and Cookies who couldn't help but be intrigued by the unexpected turn of events. The news spread like wildfire, swiftly making its way across the Vanilla Kingdom.

"What's all that ruckus?" Hollyberry inquired, stepping out of the Council Hall, followed closely by Pure Vanilla.

"Oh, Lady Hollyberry Cookie and Sir Pure Vanilla! We heard from Crunchy Chip Cookie that there will be a battle near Dark Cacao Cookie's campgrounds! We overheard him say the Royal Scientist challenged the King to a battle!" A nearby Villager Cookie explained, excitement evident in their voice.

"Is that so? Well now, I must see this with my own eyes." Hollyberry declared, her tone shifting from curiosity to eager anticipation.

"What an interesting turn of events! I would like to witness it as well." Pure Vanilla chimed in, a gentle smile adorning his face as his interest in the upcoming spectacle grew.

Unbeknownst to Dark Cacao and Mochaccino, a growing crowd of Cookies and villagers had assembled at the battlefield, drawn by the rumors of their impending battle.

The anticipation in the air was palpable as the spectators eagerly awaited the clash between the King and the Royal Scientist. They had gathered silently, keeping their presence concealed from the two combatants.

The battlefield itself was a massive crater, devoid of any signs of life or vegetation. It seemed as if the very land had been scarred by some ancient force, leaving behind a desolate and barren expanse.

The absence of wildlife and fauna only added to the eerie atmosphere, as if the place had been forsaken by nature itself.

Dark Cacao positioned himself on a sturdy rock, assuming a calm and composed posture. On the other side, Mochaccino engaged in a series of stretches, limbering up his body for the upcoming battle.

The chosen location for their duel seemed fitting, its desolation mirroring the intensity of the impending conflict. Standing at a safe distance, Crunchy Chip and the rest of the Cream Wolf Riders observed the scene, their eyes fixated on the two adversaries.

Amidst the tense silence, Dark Cacao broke the stillness with an unexpected question, catching Mochaccino off guard. "...Mochaccino Cookie, if I were to entrust you with my Soul Jam and task you with designing an invention, what would it be?"

Mochaccino paused his stretches, taken aback by the inquiry. It was a question he hadn't anticipated, but found intriguing given his recent contemplations. He pondered for a moment, considering the possibilities that lay before him.

With a spark of excitement in his eyes, he responded. "Well... I have a rather fascinating idea. It would be a suit, akin to my electricity-harnessing armor, but this one would channel the power of your Soul Jam, manifesting it into electrifying energy. It would be akin to my current setup, but on a whole new level, utilizing the very essence of your Soul Jam."

Furthermore, Mochaccino's excitement grew as he continued to share his ideas. "Moreover, I would strive to incorporate a groundbreaking technology that would enable you to wield multiple weapons simultaneously."

"Picture it: an array of Grapejam Chocoblades, but in larger sizes, lighter weights for swifter movements, and the ability to tap into the very purple lightning that your blade summons, bestowing upon you a state akin to my Electricity Overload." He finished, painting a canvas for a possibly game-changing invention.

Dark Cacao couldn't help but crack a small smile, sensing the genuine enthusiasm in Mochaccino's words. The Royal Scientist's intentions were pure, his creativity boundless, and there was no trace of manipulation or ulterior motives.

It was as if Mochaccino was simply sharing his innovative invention ideas for the joy of invention itself, without any hidden agenda.

"I appreciate your idea, Mochaccino Cookie. Your words carry no ill intent, and your sincerity shines through. However, as much as I would have been intrigued to witness the results of such a device, I must decline your proposal. My Soul Jam is something I cannot risk entrusting to anyone, no matter how trustworthy they may be." Dark Cacao explained, his voice firm yet appreciative.

Mochaccino nodded understandingly. "I completely understand, Your Majesty. Your Soul Jam is a deeply personal and precious asset. I merely shared a passing idea, and it is entirely up to you whether to explore it further or not. I, too, would have loved to see that dream become a reality, but I will not press the matter."

"Thank you for your understanding, Mochaccino Cookie. Now, I believe the time has come to commence our friendly sparring match. The Cream Wolf Riders and their captain will undoubtedly glean valuable insights from witnessing our exchange." Dark Cacao declared, his blade poised for action.

"I believe it won't be just the Cream Wolf Riders, Your Majesty." Mochaccino remarked, his gaze fixed on the scene unfolding behind Dark Cacao. "It appears we have inadvertently gathered a far larger audience than we anticipated."

Curiosity piqued, Dark Cacao turned around, his eyes widening as he took in the sight before him. The training grounds were now teeming with Cookies and villagers, their gazes fixed on the impending duel between the King and the Royal Scientist.

Among the crowd, the presence of Hollyberry and Pure Vanilla stood out, their anticipation evident in their expressions.

"YEAH! Come on, Royal Scientist! Show us what you're made of!" Hollyberry's enthusiastic cheers echoed through the air, drawing attention from the rest of the spectators.

"How did the citizens catch wind of our battle?" Dark Cacao inquired, his voice laced with curiosity and a touch of bemusement.

"I cannot say for certain, but it seems the news of our showdown spread like wildfire. Nonetheless, we find ourselves in the midst of an eager audience, and it would be rather impolite to deny them the spectacle they have come to witness, wouldn't you agree?" Mochaccino responded with a playful chuckle, assuming a battle-ready stance.

"I suppose, audience or not, our training must proceed uninterrupted." Dark Cacao declared with a determined nod, his grip tightening on his sword. "Do not disrepect yourself by holding back, Royal Scientist. Show me your full strength. Are you prepared?"

Mochaccino's cybernetic suit hummed with energy, crackling with electricity as he locked eyes with Dark Cacao. A surge of power surged through him, causing his eyes to momentarily glow with a vivid blue hue. "I've been baked ready, Your Majesty. Rest assured, I will give it my all and hold nothing back, as per your request."

The purple gem embedded in Dark Cacao's Grapejam Chocolade pulsated with potent energy, mirroring the intensity in his gaze. The crowd watched with bated breath as the air grew charged with anticipation, witnessing the escalating electrical auras surrounding the two Cookies.

"Let the battle..." Dark Cacao declared, his voice resolute as he raised his blade high.

"...commence!" Mochaccino responded, the electricity in his suit crackling and surging, illuminating the field with dazzling bolts of lightning.