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DoaHD | Entry 6: Talking to an Art Connoisseur is Fun, Said No One

A/N: Entry 6 was probably the hardest to write for me, I had to move a bunch of things around but I think I'm satisfied with the result. I hope you guys enjoy it!

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Gold suited the Consul.

Strawberry Tea Cookie was sure he was made to bask in it, baked by the Great Witches from divine light that reflected off the Republic’s glory. Buttercream hair with streaks of milk fat absorbed the limelight’s glow into a sparkling halo, highlighting the warmth of his flawless harvest gold dough. His eyes, a dull olive with sparks of pale yellow, captivated her as he spoke of the Crème Republic’s accomplishments and resilience.

He raised his arm, the ribbons at the sides of his pure white cloak lifting on command. The wing-tipped ends bent the spotlight's rays, scattering it across her view. His off-white officer’s uniform glittered subtly, enough to capture one’s attention, yet remained humble to its grandeur. A weaved blend of golden spider silk and pure cotton wool, however the way it glimmered spoke of a secret third ingredient that was undecipherable to the designer’s trained eye.

Everything seemed to revolve around the Consul, even the small specks of shimmery flour that floated about slowed to take in his very being, moving in such a way that kept him at the center of attention.

And before she knew it, his speech ended and he began descending the stairs with his retainer. The loud round of applause that followed, along with the lights creeping up to its original brightness, shook Strawberry Tea Cookie out of her trance.

She grimaced at the sudden crescendo of voices from the cookies congregating at the stairwell, all vying for the Consul’s attention. Crab Dip Cookie ushered her to come along as she got in line to greet the Consul.

“You seem quite eager to talk to the Consul.” Strawberry Tea Cookie observed, seeing how new her friend was practically vibrating in anticipation.

“Hah… I’ve been wanting to talk to him for a while now,” Crab Dip Cookie sighed. “It’s quite hard to get in touch with him, as you can see.”

“What for? If you don’t mind me asking.”

“Part of the Lower City is still destroyed from Dark Enchantress Cookie’s invasion. I've been trying to secure extra funding but the process has been slower than desired.” Crab Dip Cookie lamented. “So I thought I would try to fast-track it myself.”

“That’s quite forward of you.” Strawberry Tea Cookie commended.

“Well, my father taught me that a good businesscookie never waits for opportunities to be handed to them, they must seize them instead~.”

As the Consul politely bid another cookie goodbye with a handshake, he turned towards the direction of Crab Dip Cookie, making a motion to greet her when his olive eyes met Strawberry Tea Cookie’s own. He suddenly pivoted towards the Hollyberrian, much to her surprise. “Ah, Lady Strawberry Tea Cookie, I’m glad you could make it~,” Clotted Cream Cookie flashed her a charming smile. “How have you enjoyed tonight’s celebration?”

“It’s wonderful,” Strawberry Tea Cookie replied. She flicked her gaze momentarily to Crab Dip Cookie, who looked annoyed more than anything. She’ll make this interaction quick. “You did a marvelous job putting all this together.”

“Well, I can’t claim all the credit,” Clotted Cream Cookie chuckled. “I have Elder Sablé Cookie to thank for contributing her creative vision.” He made a grand gesture to the entire space. “I ought to introduce you to her some time, I have a feeling you two would have quite a lot in common as artists~.”

“I look forward to it, thank you.” She gave him a short curtsy, preparing to give Crab Dip Cookie the spotlight.

“How do you like the assortment of juices we provided?” He inquired. “We selected from the best breweries in the Republic.”

“Oh— I haven’t had a chance to sample all of them yet.”

“Well there’s plenty to go around, we made this selection with Hollyberry Cookie in mind,” he mused with a light chuckle. “It was her generosity that helped defend the Crème Republic from Dark Enchantress Cookie, so don’t hesitate to indulge yourself. I know how Hollyberrians can get with their juice~.”

“Of course.” Hopefully he didn’t tell Wildberry Cookie that. “However, I believe there’s another cookie waiting to speak with you,” Strawberry Tea Cookie created some distance and cued Crab Dip Cookie to join. “I shall take my leave.”

The Hollyberrian rushed away before Clotted Cream Cookie could utter another word, situating herself by a pillar where she had a clear view of the two. Their conversation seemed civil enough, although she couldn’t hear given all the noise around her.

She hoped her conduct didn’t offend him too much. Who is she kidding, she most likely did. She just didn’t want Crab Dip Cookie to wait any longer on an incredibly important issue.

Strawberry Tea Cookie sighed as a seed of dread rooted itself in her dough. Perhaps she can find him later and apologize for her short demeanor.

.

“That went surprisingly well!” Crab Dip Cookie beamed. “He even offered to meet with me at the end of the week to discuss this further~.”

“I’m glad to hear.” The Hollyberrian couldn’t help but crack a small smile at her friend’s delight.

“This is so exciting~.” She cheered. “Tonight was a success!”

There was a certain, almost child-like excitement that radiated from Crab Dip Cookie. One that made the room brighter and atmosphere lighter; much like how Princess Cookie joyously recounted her many adventures, even if some of them gave both her and Knight Cookie a heart attack. It was a genuinity she rarely saw from others, an infectiously energizing conviction…

Passion.

Crab Dip Cookie would fit in just right with House Strawberry.

Unlike her.

“I didn’t know that you two knew each other,” Crab Dip Cookie commented, leaning against the pillar with her head resting on her hand. Eyes twinkling with interest as her mouth curved up into a playful smirk. “It seemed like you guys were close given how he immediately went to you~.”

“I only met him this morning,” Strawberry Tea Cookie explained. “I came with some important cookies so he was there to greet us at the airship dock.”

“Ah, I see…” She looked slightly disappointed with that information.

Although now that Crab Dip Cookie mentioned it, the Consul’s action was quite strange. However, she recalled that he started off on a rocky road with the Ancient Heroes. As a cookie with ties to the royal family, perhaps he wanted to ensure her comfort to maintain a positive standing with the Hollyberry Kingdom.

“Crab Dip Cookie, what a wonderful surprise~.” A slender cookie with an ovalish peach bob dusted in powdered sugar that completely obscured her eyes approached the two, an entourage of three cookies trailing behind. She wore a frilled, rose white robe with a bourbon corset cinching her waist. Around her neck is a fluffy, dairy cream boa that was pinned to her right side by a flower-shaped brooch with a dollop of cherry jam at the center.

“Elder Sablé Cookie.” Crab Dip Cookie smiled stiffly. “A pleasure seeing you here.” There was no excitement in her tone, only an unsteady cadence that matched her rigid posture.

“It’s been quite a while since I’ve last seen you.” Sablé Cookie remarked with a sharp smile. “I assume you have been well?”

“I have.” Crab Dip Cookie responded curtly. “And you?”

“Splendid as usual, thank you for asking~.” The Elder then turned to Strawberry Tea Cookie. “And you must be her friend?”

“...Yes, Strawberry Tea Cookie.” She uttered her name hesitantly, as if the Elder were to curse it if it was known. Gone was the warmth Crab Dip Cookie exuded, frozen as the spotlight was placed on Sablé Cookie.

The nervous tensity reminded Strawberry Tea Cookie of the early days Peach Jam Cookie began colonizing Strawberry Mansion, every interaction felt like she had to prove something, as if each condescending comment would solidify her place in the Strawberry family vine…

“Judging by your attire, you must not be from here.” Sablé Cookie leaned closer to the Hollyberrian. “No wonder~.” The cookies behind her snickered.

What?

Strawberry Tea Cookie took a deep breath. “May I ask for clarification on what you mean?”

“Oh, it’s nothing~,” she chuckled. “All I’m saying is a classy-looking cookie like you should be around someone like me instead of her.”

The Elder looped an arm around Strawberry Tea Cookie, trying to lead her along. But she stood her ground. Glancing back, she saw how… small Crab Dip Cookie looked, strung in her spot with an unreadable emotion washing over her usual sunny disposition.

“Come along now." Sablé Cookie tried once again to usher her forward, but to no avail.

Strawberry Tea Cookie was no stranger to this type of behavior. For someone of such high authority to pull this type of stunt, it was still pathetic even if she found it unsurprising. But before she could let the Elder in on those thoughts, she realized she was talking to… well, an Elder of the Crème Republic.

House Strawberry is a powerful and respected name in the Hollyberry Kingdom. Strawberry Tea Cookie, admittedly, evaded the consequences of her actions because of her status. She had no qualms telling off those who disrespected her or her loved ones, doing so without a second thought on most occasions.

But her family has no influence in the Crème Republic.

A rotting feeling began festering within the designer, eating her within and only leaving a sticky, sour mush that she already felt ankles-deep in. Staying by Crab Dip Cookie’s side was the right action to take, she was sure of it. She didn’t know their history, but what Sablé Cookie was doing was nothing more than bullying. But that would most likely come at the cost of Strawberry Tea Cookie’s own reputation, something she must maintain if she wants to make any meaningful connections here— which she needs in order to protect her family.

Strawberry Tea Cookie released the breath she didn’t know she was holding.

She couldn’t just leave her new friend here, what type of cookie would she be if she didn’t stand up for her?

What type of cookie would she be if she destroyed her reputation here on the first night? She’ll have no chance to win back her inheritance.

She took one more glance at Crab Dip Cookie.

Before turning to face the Elder of the Arts, quietly allowing herself to be led away.

Surely, Crab Dip Cookie would understand. She just has so much on the line.

No, she won’t. You are nothing but a traitor.

“Now tell me, new friend, where do you hail from?” Sablé Cookie inquired.

“…The Hollyberry Kingdom.” Strawberry Tea Cookie muttered.

“Ah the Kingdom of passion and romance. You must have a keen eye for the arts, yes~?”

“I suppose so.”

“What do you think about the decorations on the walls~?” She pointed at the blue chiffon hanging from the second floor. “I tied them in the shape of an award ribbon to represent our victory against Dark Enchantress Cookie, and let it drape down to the floor to commemorate our glorious Republic’s long past and continuous future.”

“Ah, and all together it must mean that we’ll continue to stand triumphant against any threat that crosses us!” A cookie in her entourage commented.

“That’s exactly it~!” The Elder validated.

“You truly did an outstanding job arranging tonight’s celebration.” Another fawned. “I’ve never been to one so marvelous~.”

“Well of course, I am the Elder of the Arts after all.” She boasted, placing a hand on her chest in a prideful manner. “I would be putting my title to shame if I didn’t put my best frosting forward for anything I do~.”

“Oh! And the decorations holding them up are absolutely stunning!”

They were shield-shaped emblems that were frosted in multiple layers of royal icing, with extra care taken to ensure each swipe brought the Republic’s golden wyvern to life.

“I only used the highest quality royal icing there is.” Sablé Cookie beamed. “Such rich and creamy frosting, yet able to harden into an impenetrable shell, perfectly represents how our glorious nation is both the epicenter of culture and military prowess~.”

—Pierce the fabric, loop the thread.

The walls of Blueberry Manor paled in comparison to the vibrant blues that frosted its exterior vessel, its hallways intricately piped with chartreuse buttercream, accentuating the gold-framed portraits of the house’s lineage that hung in neat rows. Moss green carpet carved paths through the middle of the wafer floors, leading its guests to and from chambers that held exquisitely crafted ball gowns.

This was a welcomed change for the young prodigy, whose eyes have long grown sore after being surrounded by shocking pinks her entire life.

However, as much as she enjoyed her time here, there was one— well honestly a few— quirks of Blueberry Raisin Cookie that she disliked very much.

“Some of these new students are so… so…” His scratchy voice rose with each syllable, holding its pitch as he attempted to find the right word. He paced across his studio, kicking up bundles of carpet with each heavy step. “I don’t know what our king was thinking, allowing such uneducated plebeians to run around this fine establishment,” he continued, throwing his arms in frustration. “Most don’t even know basic color theory!”

Recently, King Royal Berry Cookie personally sponsored a few commoners to attend some of the art schools built in his name. While their technical skills were admittedly substandard, the academy developed a set of introductory courses to catch them up with their aristocratic counterparts.

“I believe they have potential,” Strawberry Tea Cookie refuted, releasing the thread from her control. She had been working on one of Blueberry Raisin Cookie’s more complicated commissions. “Their creative visions add a unique perspective to The Institute, and should be fostered rather than rejected.”

It’s not uncommon for noble families to finance a commoner’s education, she doesn’t understand why he’s throwing a fit now.

“They don’t have the skill to merit their belonging, and those ‘introductory’ classes are doing nothing but tarnishing MY academy’s reputation.” He sneered sourly. “All this charity work is doing nothing but lifting up cookies who don’t deserve it.”

“Might I remind you the school’s mission is to refine the skills of the most gifted designers in the Hollyberry Kingdom,” Strawberry Tea Cookie argued, swerving her chair to face him. She sat poised, legs partially crossed and hands holding each other with a grasp so tight it threatened to crumble her own dough. “I trust King Royal Berry Cookie only selected from the best applicants. With the right guidance and enough effort, I have no doubt these cookies will shine as bright as The Institute’s top students.”

Blueberry Raisin Cookie only laughed condescendingly at her statement. “Oh sweet, naive Strawberry Tea Cookie~,” he cupped her cheeks. The young designer grimaced and jerked her face away from his grasp. “A cookie with your skill believes everybody has the capability to do what you do.”

This wasn’t the first time he said that, and frankly she was starting to grow quite irritated at these statements.

Strawberry Tea Cookie abruptly stood up. “If you have nothing to say other than insulting cookies who don’t conform to your backwards ideals, then I believe we should conclude today’s session.”

She used to speak her mind so easily.

“You’ve been so quiet.” Sablé Cookie observed, pulling her closer. “What do you think of the decorations?”

“They’re… Impressive.” Though the delivery of that statement felt like the opposite.

There was an awkward silence that followed, and Strawberry Tea Cookie swore she heard whispers directed at her from the small crowd that followed the Elder.

“Ah, I must’ve rendered you speechless, hm~?” The corner of Sablé Cookie’s mouth twitched up.

“Yes…” It looks like she’s giving her a second chance. “...You clearly put a lot of thought and effort into it. Everything seemed to have been done with intention, which is to be expected from a cookie such as yourself.”

“If you think that’s impressive, then you must come to my exhibit next week.” She implored, seemingly satisfied with Strawberry Tea Cookie’s flattery. “I’ll be displaying the finest art pieces made by my patronees, along with my own personal works as well~.”

“...I’ll consider it.”

“Now if only Crab Dip Cookie stuck with her fashion career, she’d also get an invite~.” Someone in the crowd mused, frosted face twisting with amused malice.

“But instead she chose to help those Lower City Cookies instead, Lord Crab Cookie must be so disappointed!”

Strawberry Tea Cookie’s stomach dropped to the ground, the obnoxious laughter around her only serving to pull it closer to the bottom of Earthbread.

“Excuse me…” She released herself from Sablé Cookie’s grasp. “I’m… going to get something to drink.”

Many years ago, Strawberry Tea Cookie fell ill with a terrible case of yeastpox— the only time she had ever become sick. She was confined to her bed for weeks, dough hot and aching like she had been dropped into a bucket of boiling honey, unable to move in its viscous form. Every particle of yeast seemed to pulse in its rosy prison, pounding into her head in a way that kept her teetering between the realm of consciousness and slumber.

Yet at this very moment, she somehow felt worse.

She felt sick.

A type of sickness that dug deeper than those searing yeastpox blisters, one that squeezed her stomach so painfully it kept her mind deliriously replaying her betrayal. Nothing could soothe the unbearable heat boiling underneath her dough, so much so that she wished she could just tear off the outer layer.

She was sick. In every sense of the word. No better than the faceless crowds who chased her out with the rumors Blueberry Raisin Cookie spread.

The mocking remarks.

The cruel laughter.

Each step she took quickened in pace, her view blurring into splotches of searing light and shapeless dough she narrowly avoided in her search for that signature hat and crimson-red dress. Every corridor she was permitted to enter, every tile on the dance floor, every crevice this building had to offer, she cycled around thrice over. Yet the previous ocean of cookies had dwindled into that of a measly pond, she most definitely would have found her friend by now— if she even had the privilege to call her a friend.

Strawberry Tea Cookie found herself back at the juice fountain, leaning against the wall as she tried to regain her bearings.

Is this who her parents want her to be?

Passive?

To choose the bigger cookie and keep the peace— to maintain her reputation?

She knew the answer.

“You seem to have a lot on your mind.” Wildberry Cookie stood in front of her, his larger form thankfully blocking out the too-bright lights.

“I…” Strawberry Tea Cookie paused, her eyes trailing down to see the two glasses of juice in his hand. “I thought you weren’t fond of juice.”

“This is only lemonade.” He stated. “Now, do you want to talk outside?”

It was more of an order than a question.

.

Wildberry Cookie led Strawberry Tea Cookie off to the side of the venue’s main entrance, far enough so cookies could not hear their discussion. The night was chillier than expected, pinching at her exposed dough and burrowing itself deep within to spread through her jam. The Hollyberry Kingdom’s tropical climate would never allow the temperatures to stoop so low, yet there were times where the designer felt colder back home.

“This is unlike you.” Was the first thing Wildberry asked after hearing Strawberry Tea Cookie recount the last few hours of her life.

She let out a dejected sigh. “I can only hope for an opportunity to apologize to her one day.”

“...Is becoming what your parents want you to be the right choice?” Wildberry Cookie questioned. “I don’t believe it would guarantee that you’ll win back their favor.”

“They criticized both my attitude and my inactivity.” The coldness within pushed out the warmth in her dough, which the night’s frigidity was more than happy to accept. “Demonstrating that I can meaningfully contribute to both House Strawberry’s influence and reputation will be my highest chance of becoming heiress again.”

“But that conflict between Sablé Cookie and Crab Dip Cookie seems to weigh heavily on you. Can you continue doing that for the rest of your life?”

“...What choice do I have?” Of course she would never want to abandon someone like Crab Dip Cookie ever again. But in her circumstances, she didn’t have many options. Besides, she has burdened her parents enough throughout the years, it’s about time she took some of the load off them. Even if… “All nobles have their responsibilities, including me.”

Strawberry Tea Cookie leaned her head against the cold wall, looking up to see the vague ribbons of chiffon clouds rippling through the sky, completely obscuring the stars above. She closed her eyes, focusing on the light breeze and the faint melody playing from inside the venue. The violins’ trebled melody, supported by the violas’ alto voice, and—her favorite— the cellos’ bass beat combining into an all-to-familiar symphony, one that conjured a bittersweet feeling within the designer, a coldness that was pricked by the slightest slivers of warmth. “This feels quite familiar, doesn’t it?”

.

Cold.

She felt so cold.

The heiress’s hands trembled as she leaned against the palace walls, trying to feel the unevenly braided vines that climbed along the rough plaster to quell her rapidly beating heart. Yet all she registered was the uncomfortable shifting of her silken gloves, the seams scratching her chilled, shaking palms.

What has she done?

Her heart and stomach had all but sunken to the deepest part of the mixing bowl. No, way beyond that. It had fallen beneath Earthbread’s crust, pulling her down with its ropes of contrition that made her knees buckle against the weight.

“Well maybe if he wasn’t such a gross wretch, she wouldn’t need to apologize in the first place!”

Great Ancients, what has she done?

“Are you... alright?” A deep voice asked. “I saw what happened in the ballroom.”

Strawberry Tea Cookie turned to meet a cookie towering over her wearing a heavy set of armor, her rubine eyes widened, fear sinking her deeper into the ground. “A-are you a guard? I c-can leave.”

“You didn’t answer my question.” He stated.

“I-I’m fine.” She huffed, a futile attempt at hiding the shakiness in her voice.

“It doesn’t look like it.” He deadpanned.

“Look, if you’re here to berate me, I don’t need to hear it!” Strawberry Tea Cookie snapped.

Nice one. First you rile up the entire Hollyberrian court by insulting a well-respected figurehead, now you just yelled at a guard.

“I’m not.” He reassured, unaffected by her outburst. “There was a reason why you said that, and I’m not like the others who believe you were just being difficult.”

The heiress relaxed her stance, staring blankly at him for a second. All the grief and frustration seemed to leave her body at his statement, leaving her numb yet… relieved. Warmth began chipping away at her iced jam. “Thank you…”

The ball’s symphony played faintly in the background, filling the silence between them.

“...What’s your name?” Strawberry Tea Cookie inquired.

“Wildberry Cookie.”

“I’m Strawberry Tea Cookie.”