Welcome to the Spire of All Knowledge

"And now, The Spire of All Knowledge stands abandoned without a master." | If that was true, then who is that mysterious starry-haired blue Cookie that met Pure Vanilla and co at the top of the Spire?

[the-lonely-spire]

Welcome to the Spire of All Knowledge!

What goes on here?

Hello, blog owner here- If you didn't already guess, this is (yet another) CRK ask blog/RP blog themed around an AU of mine!

In this AU, the Fount of Knowledge was the only Virtue who didn't corrupt out of the five and so he's the only one who avoided getting trapped in the Silver Tree. Following the other Beasts' corruptions and subsequent sealing at the hands of the Witches, the Fount ran away and isolated himself in his Spire of Knowledge never to emerge or be seen again... until now

Everyone came to the Spire of All Knowledge looking to gain information from its library on how to stop Dark Enchantress and realized there's a guy living here actually! Just who is this ghost from the past and why is he so insistent on pushing all these new guests away?

(Please note that the Fount still lost half of his Soul Jam in this AU which is why PV exists/why PV has the Light of Truth, but the reason why he lost it will likely be revealed in a plot event)

Current character list you can ask/talk to is:

- The Fount (Fount)

- Pure Vanilla (PV)

- GingerBrave (GB)

- Strawberry

- Wizard

- White Lily (WL)

- And potentially more in the future if more characters get added over the course of the RP! This list will be updated if so

(You can also talk to blog owner's CRK OC Mint Swirl who's canonically skulking around the Spire and surrounding area too. Mint Swirl may appear anyway at times for funny moments or to act as the blog owner's sona for OOC replies)

Look below the cut to see the rules/extra info!

Rules/Extra Info

For those wondering, yes, this AU will more than likely be ShadowVanilla (PureFount?) leaning. Turn back now if that's not your cup of tea

All responses to asks will be delivered via text response and/or with CRK's in-game sprites because blog owner unfortunately can't draw to save their life

Blog owner is an adult but requests that we keep it SFW around here for simplicity's sake. There may be mildly suggestive content depending on what happens, but let's not post anything that'll get us all yeeted into the sun by a content filter

Be nice! We're all here to have fun! Unless we're tormenting I mean giving our favorite blorbos a few mental health struggles along the way

Along those lines, be patient. Blog owner has to sleep sometimes and won't be available to respond to asks 24/7

CRK OCs are more than welcome! So are anons! Come say hi!

Responses will be delivered as in-character as I can manage but do note that this is an AU so we can handwave a few OOC moments as different life experiences

Blog owner can't draw but blog owner does write fanfic! This means that you may occasionally see mini fics/scenes get posted even without the asks. You may also see things like journal entries and the like from the characters. Perhaps even letters being mailed to Cookies in other places...

Send your asks in English please. Blog owner unfortunately only speaks English

Current/Past Plot Arcs

Now get out there and send those asks! Talk to my AU goobers! Inbox is always open!

The Corrupted Rune | #plot event: the corrupted rune | Ongoing

The Library's Labyrinth | #plot event: the library's labyrinth | Ongoing

[the-lonely-spire]

Juniperberry Cookie gave them a worried look, having been there when Mocha Drizzle Cookie had suffered a flare-up. It looked painful from what she remembers. Mocha Drizzle Cookie saw her expression, remembering seeing it when she and the healer looked at him to make them sit on the medical cot.

MD: *smiles* Don't worry, Juniperberry Cookie. I'm taking care of myself. The cane helps too and I was given medicine to bring with me.

Juniperberry: 😟

The head healer was right, Juniperberry Cookie's look did make you feel bad instead of scared. Grapevine Cookie took notice of the minor tension in the air. Juniperberry Cookie seemed to care much for Mocha Drizzle Cookie while the assassin seemed to be the type to not care for themselves as much as they should.

Still, they assured Juniperberry Cookie though she still seemed doubtful. The tension eased as Juniperberry Cookie helped them pick out some herbs both the head apothecary and healer back in the Dark Cacao Kingdom. Hopefully they'll work as peace offerings too.

Purchases were made and Lumen Nutmeg Cookie packed up the herbs, accepting the coins given to him. He would have probably given the herbs free of charge but everyone insisted to pay fairly. Lumen Nutmeg Cookie accepted it and gave them their change.

Lumen: Where do you plan to go next?

Fount: We've heard mention of the guild hall so probably there next.

Anmitsu: And see whatever else is one route! *holding Aiko's hand*

Lumen: Well then, I hope you enjoy the rest of the day. The guild hall is open until late at night so there's still plenty of time to see everything and everyone.

With their bags in hand, those who bought herbs, one by one, they bade Lumen Nutmeg Cookie and Juniperberry Cookie farewell to move onto the next location. Cream Wolf and Twirl got up when they heard everyone come out. The little pup trotted up to Dark Truffle Cookie and nuzzled her and he got pets in return.

Following their guides, everyone headed to the guild hall. Adventures were coming in and out, some alone, some in parties. Sandrunner Cookie was waiting there and made her way to the group when she saw them. Those who were in the war recognized her.

Anmitsu: ! (Darling!)

Sandrunner: *hugs her tight* About time you come here, my Faerie.

Anmitsu: Hah... I've been neglecting you, haven't I?

Aiko: Koneko-chan! (Kitty)

Sandrunner: *purrs and picks her up* I think you'll be my favorite now.

Aiko: *giggles* *pets her ears*

Anmitsu: 😏 *shakes her head* *looks at the others* Maybe you remember my girlfriend, Sandrunner Cookie from the battle. We didn't get to meet and greet properly.

Sandrunner Cookie looked over and saw the group. She remembered seeing a few but not everyone. She flinched when she saw Cream Wolf and Twirl, her tail twitching... It wasn't the fact that she was a Khajiit Cookie, it's just that cats and dogs don't always get along...

~~~

Seeing the Sage change the rune like that made Sweet Roll Cookie wonder how many runes existed out there. They all looked so complex and complicated. The magic users back home all seemed really smart when it came to this stuff...

Sweet Roll Cookie often forgot many things and was terrible at memorizing things... it was struggling enough to remember certain herbs and it took weeks for her to memorize. That is, it felt like it took weeks. She didn't keep track. She often wished she had her father's memory capacity. Being a half elf, he could do so many things.

Being a quarter elf... Sweet Roll felt as though she got the short end of the stick in many things. She was shorter, looked nothing like her elven relatives, and lacked many of their skills. Regardless, Sweet Roll Cookie watched as the Sage changed and altered the runes to make them do different things.

When she was a child, she had fallen in love with magic. Sweet Roll Cookie had grown up seeing her father wield magic and he would make beautiful spells for her to see. She fell in love with the beauty magic can create. Sweet Roll Cookie wanted to make beautiful things with magic... She didn't care if her spells weren't practical, she wanted to make pretty things.

Sweet Roll: Recluse...?

Recluse: *looks over at her*

Sweet Roll: Are the classes the Sage teaches like this too? It's so much quieter... Not even the assemblies back home were this loud. It took forever to make everyone be quiet. I'm actually learning stuff too and I'm not bored.

Crunchy Chip Cookie seemed to notice the subtle reaction as he watched Sandrunner Cookie for a moment. He trusted that Cream Wolf and Twirl would behave after seeing how calm they were around Brightstar Cookie and her family, but he still quietly soothed the dessert creatures and told them both to play nice.

While Crunchy Chip Cookie worked with the wolves, the other Dark Cacaoians gave their nods of greeting to acknowledge Sandrunner Cookie's presence. The Fount greeted her as well, offering her a pleasant smile and a wave.

DC: Well met, Sandrunner Cookie. I am Dark Cacao Cookie.

Fount: Indeed! It's a pleasure to meet you properly.

~~~~

The Recluse raised an eyebrow at Sweet Roll Cookie's question before he gave her a small nod. He too had been curious about the Sage's lectures and lessons once upon a time, which led to him sneakily observing from the shadows of the classroom one week while class was in session.

Recluse: Yes, they are. The Sage teaches with the same amount of showboating and magical flair regardless of whether it takes place in the classroom or the lecture hall. The evening lecture is merely a way for him to share his knowledge with Cookies who do not have the time or means to attend the Academy full-time.

The multi-eyed gaze of the Recluse's staff turned away from the stage for a moment, focusing solely on Sweet Roll Cookie.

Recluse: And yes, his normal classes are this quiet as well besides his rambling and showing off. Really the only difference between the evening lecture and the classroom is the attendance. I believe the apprentices also usually sit with the rest of the students during class.

[the-lonely-spire]

Juniperberry Cookie would tell Grapevine Cookie whether he deduced right or wrong and which herbs were tricky. She showed the vampire and assassin a few very similar looking herbs and pointed out the subtle differences they had.

Mocha Drizzle Cookie had to take a ose look because she was right, those two specific herbs really looked alike. Curious, Grapevine Cookie sniffed each one, noticing a subtle difference in scent. One smelled more of pine and the other had a more herbal leafy scent. Both were impressed by his sense of smell.

MD: My, do all vampire Cookies have such a strong nose?

Grapevine: As far as I know, yes. Having traveled a lot with my sister, I learned to distinguish various scents as well as find out what certain types of herbs are when I didn't have any other way to identify them. It helped not to accidentally get poisoned on the road, partial immunity or not. Though there was this one guy we saw who made tea of a plant that made him really itchy. He couldn't tell if it was the good one or bad one until it was too late. Really nice man from what I remember. His nephew... He was going through a few things.

Juniperberry: *tilts head* *puts the herbs away* {Find anything you want to try out or purchase? For curiosity or for someone else perhaps?}

MD: Oh, I believe I will! *looks at the herbs* But which ones would Bitter Thyme Cookie like and which ones will work to make the head healer not glare at me?

Juniperberry: 😅

Grapevine: I'm guessing you don't always follow the doctor's orders?

If he looked out onto the corner of his eye, he could see the others shaking their heads before subtle looking away or acting like they were in conversation when Mocha Drizzle Cookie looked over.

HC: *giggling* You're so cute~!

Aiko: *mewling*

~~~

What he was staying about runes and scrolls allowing one to cast magic they weren't able to... Sweet Roll Cookie looked back up at the Sage as he spoke... Finding this topic rather familiar... Was he expanding on what he taught her earlier?

Sweet Roll: (Wait a second...! )

She watched as the apprentices began to demonstrate a few spells they knew using the runes taught to them. Grapevine Cookie draw a few runes to make flowers grow which he tossed to the audience. Apple Faerie Cookie had fun making little sparks of fireworks. One of the apprentices... made a whirlwind that almost blew them away but they were caught by another and brought back to the stage.

Sage: And that brings us to another topic. *floats over and makes sure his apprentice is okay* One must keep in mind the size of the runes they make. Different sizes can create different outcomes. The bigger the rune, the bigger and often times stronger the impact. The smaller it's drawn, the more precise or perhaps weaker or smoother the results. It all depends on what one wants to happen with the way they draw the rune. *walks back*

The Sage walks back to the center and holds his staff, the tip glowing as he drew various runes. One normal, one big, and one small.

Sage: A rune of normal or average size will create the general result it usually has in store. For example, this one right here creates a simple water spout. *taps it*

After tapping it, the run indeed made a water spout, perfectly controlled and steady. The next one the Sage focused on was the rather big one and small one.

Sage: This one is the same as the previous one, but you'll notice that its quite bigger and larger. At this size, it will create an even larger spout, *starts to move it around* but if you manipulate it even more while keeping it's original shape in mind, it changes the outcome yet again. Though do be careful and be mindful of accidental splashing! Let's see... Almost... There! *taps it*

With the manipulated rune, the spout was now a fountain which made water flow in various directions, making beautiful shapes. Sweet Roll Cookie thought once more, thinking she heard something like that back home. It was logical to assume that manipulated rune would create something different than it would when it was a regular one. The Sage turned off the fountain and walked to the little one.

Sage: Though weaker than the rest, these tiny runes can be quite convenient and handy. *reaches into a little rift and pulls out a glass* *holds it over the rune and taps it to fill it up with soda water* Even the smallest results can have the biggest of impacts. *takes a sip* Water is only one of the elements in which runes can tap into. Others summon fire, air, plants, and much more. Don't get me started on combining them or we'll be here all day! Though that doesn't sound so bad~! But I digress! To briefly recap, along with scrolls, runes can help one achieve a spell they struggle with until they find a way to cast it themselves without them. The possibilities are endless!

Truthless Recluse knew about the runes and how to manipulate them but the way the Sage did it intrigued him. He didn't manipulate them as the Virtue did just now but he could see the perks they have should their size and shape be altered. Maybe he could use some to blow the Sage away or lure him into a trap door.

He looked at Sweet Roll Cookie who's eyes were glued to the stage now. It seems that her interest was completely piqued. Perhaps the Sage was getting through to her... He wondered if this would be enough or if she would want to sit down for a class to see what it was like. He'd want to if he went through what she did.

Grapevine Cookie did indeed notice the other Dark Cacaoians shaking their heads out of the corner of his eyecings, which prompted him to purse his lips as he raised an eyebrow at Mocha Drizzle Cookie. The assassin narrowed their eyecings in their companions' directions before they signed and returned their gaze to Grapevine Cookie.

MD: I like to call it, ah... motivation, if you will. Motivation to get things done. I have many duties to attend around the castle and so I prefer not to stop and take breaks if I don't have to.

Grapevine Cookie's eyecings flicked down to the cane that Mocha Drizzle Cookie leaned on at their side. The assassin knew what he was looking at and pointedly avoided acknowledging it.

MD: I'm a very busy Cookie, you see. The healers just happen to not like my work ethic.

~~~~

While the Recluse would never verbally admit that he was enjoying the lecture as well, he was pleased to see that Sweet Roll Cookie was enjoying the lecture. It gave him a bit of hope that she could learn that not all schools were as terrible as her old one and restore her faith in magic and Cookiekind a bit.

Back on the stage, the Sage allowed the glass of water to join the teacup he had previously been sipping from as both cups floated in the air beside him. He regarded the small water spout rune again before he pointed his staff at it once more.

Sage: And before we move on... Because I'm certain some of you are curious about this possibility... You CAN manipulate and change an existing rune into something else entirely. A bit harder to do, but sometimes quicker than drawing a new rune from scratch if one is on a time crunch.

The Sage waved his staff at the rune then, causing it to warp and change shape. It continued to shift for a few moments before he activated it again, causing it to ignite into a small and controlled flame instead of a water spout.

[the-lonely-spire]

Crunchy Chip Cookie's question made Caramel Arrow Cookie think... Would the head healer take a bribe? She tried to visualize it... She imagined a patient trying to give her rare herbs or medical supplies... But her scary glare won and make the patient feel bad.

CA: Honestly... I doubt she would. I don't think anyone back home would do so, at least right now. If asked a few months ago when a certain snake was still around, my answer would probably be different.

CC: Hmph! If he knows what's good for him, he better not show up ever again! Seriously, not only would Affogato Cookie get totally pummeled, but his death sentence is guaranteed after what he tried to do to Her Highness.

On that, Caramel Arrow Cookie had to agree. The second it was discovered that Affogato Cookie who poisoned Dark Truffle Cookie, his sentence was obvious. Any attempt at murdering a royal would undoubtedly be life imprisonment or execution. She looked over at the princess who was having fun with Honey Crisp Cookie and Aiko Cookie.

Dark Truffle Cookie was now holding Aiko Cookie who was a cute little bread kitten. Honey Crisp Cookie was gushing over how cute she was. It made her want to shift into cute little dessert animals so bad!

CA: At least the princess is safe and healthy now. And she's making a lot of friends. I bet you that she and the other kids will make a pillow fort if His Majesty decides we stay at the manor mentioned earlier.

While they spoke, Juniperberry Cookie explained in sign language to Mocha Drizzle Cookie what some of the herbs did and how they were grown. The assassin took notes in their head to keep in mind later. They were definitely thinking of making a purchase or two for Bitter Thyme Cookie... And maybe get back on the head healer's good side.

When Grapevine Cookie asked a few questions, Juniperberry Cookie was more than happy to answer. She explained the process of harvesting the herbs and making medicine, ointments, and potions. It was definitely an extensive process, often having many steps.

~~~

Sweet Roll Cookie blinked. Dark Moon Magic? What was that exactly? She knew her friend could channel magic using moonlight, it helped that she was an Alicorn Hybrid of Moonlight, but she never thought of it herself. Phoenix Cookies were birds of the sun.

The sun gave their magic strength and illuminated their feathers. The moon wasn't spoken about too much unless it was brought up... then again, her uncle, the Clan's leader, did have a name referring to the night. Maybe there was a connection after all. There was another thing that Sweet Roll Cookie noted...

Looking around again, she saw that many Cookies present were quiet or whispered. Were classes like this too? The lecture wasn't made up of just students... Though she was filled with wonder, her doubt lingered. Sweet Roll Cookie looked up at Truthless Recluse who seemed rather intrigued himself.

Truthless Recluse looked over at her, seeing a question on her mind. Sweet Roll Cookie motioned to the magic around the Sage and then pointed to him. Truthless Recluse understood that she was asking if he could perform Dark Moon Magic as well. He nodded and made a small light of his dark blue aura, showing his version of Dark Moon Magic.

Sweet Roll Cookie's eyes lit up as she looked at him then back at the Sage. What he said about elemental magic reminded her of the talk and brief lesson they had earlier that day. She remembered the way the Sage changed one element to the next so easily. She looked at her hands, wondering if she'd ever manage to at least cast a single spell with an element she wasn't used to.

Sweet Roll Cookie looked at the rifts made with Dark Moon Magic... They looked like a few that were made by a few of her clanmates. Some could make rifts, reaching out to grab stuff like the Sage did, but there was never any mention of Dark Moon Magic. If anything, aside from the Alicorn Clan of Moonlight, the Werewolf Cookies speak highly of the moon, revering her.

CC: I'm sure they will and it'll be perfect! Think of it like practice for the princess! She'll have our own Citadel to protect!

While Crunchy Chip Cookie and Caramel Arrow Cookie spoke, the Fount kept an extra eyecing or three on Grapevine Cookie and Honey Crisp Cookie. He was happy to see that both of the siblings appeared to be having fun and getting along with the other Cookies.

Grapevine Cookie found himself fascinated as he paid attention to Juniperberry Cookie's explanations about the herbs and the potions. Mocha Drizzle Cookie assisted in translating the sign language for the young vampire as they continued to take their own notes.

Hearing about everything made Grapevine Cookie want to take his own mental notes. He wasn't sure if he would ever want to go into the apothecary business, but hearing about everything and learning the process was fascinating information to him all the same.

That fascination only served to drive his curiosity further which in turn fueled his curious questions as he looked at some of the various herbs on the shelves and tried to deduce what could be created from them.

~~~~

Sage: Now! There's multiple ways to make pocket spaces, particularly where transportation is concerned, but this is my personal method. I may know how to wield all types of magic, but my connection to Dark Moon Magic and my connection to the Other-Realm is my personal specialty.

The Sage took one more sip from the teacup he had retrieved from the rift before he allowed it to free-float in the air, delicately suspended by a soft golden light. With his hands free, he was able to use his staff once more.

Sage: I'd also like to draw your attention back to the runes for a moment! Much like incantations, runic circles allow us to focus our magic into one particular place so it can be useful for setting a precise location for a rift. Many portal ways will incorporate runes in one way or another because they can be carved directly into a doorframe and keep the spell active even when the caster isn't there.

The Virtue looked up at one of the unfinished and free floating rune circles before he waved his staff at it. The rune began to shift before they shimmered and separated into different shapes.

Sage: Another thing runes can do for us is allow us to use magic that we may not be capable of casting normally. How many of you have used a scroll that contained runes to cast a spell that you're unable to conjure on your own? It can be a fantastic training tool for learning new types of magic!

He smiled at the audience again.

Sage: Especially when we're studying cross elemental magic or moon magic. I can open my own rifts without the use of a tool but my apprentices here have learned to work with the spells and runes that I taught them.

[the-lonely-spire]

Lumen: *smiles* I'm glad to hear all has been well this far. And congratulations on your upcoming wedding, Fount.

Fount: Thank you! We'll send out invitations once we finalize a date! And handle the other things...

The Fount realized that there was a looooong list to tackle for his and Elder Faerie's wedding...

Lumen: *chuckles* Now realizing the long list of things to handle?

Fount: It's been on my mind for a while... with all that's happened, we haven't been able to do much... *Thinks* Lumen Nutmeg Cookie, if I may ask, how was your wedding like?

Lumen: Quite grand, following tradition. Sablé Glaze Cookie and I married by the civil court and then by the church, according to our faith. The reception afterwards was filled with friends and family, we practically partied all night before we left on our honeymoon. We had help planning everything and arranging thanks to our family. It's almost been thirty years since then.

Fount: ! Thirty...! That's quite the record.

Lumen: Oh, it's not that long yet. Other couples have been wed for centuries.

DC: Hmm... A few elders on my council have been married for over sixty and many admire them for having a relationship with their spouses that has lasted so long.

Lumen: Here as well.

Fount: Hm... (Had things been different, perhaps Faerie and I would be celebrating our hundredth something anniversary... But we have much to look forward too and I'll get to see him tomorrow! I hope Honey Crisp Cookie will be okay should her wings grow in...)

The conversation went on for a bit, pausing when Lightwave Cookie came up to the counter to purchase some herbs. Lumen Nutmeg Cookie handled the order with ease and the purchase was finalized in no time. Lightwave Cookie thanked them then used a spell to send the herbs to her master's office.

Fount: ! You're quite skilled in magic, Lightwave Cookie.

Anmitsu: *looks over* Lightwave Cookie's a prodigy in both magic and academics. Arguably having the best grades out of all us when we were kids.

Lightwave: *looks away shyly* I don't boast about it.

Lightwave Cookie was definitely the calmer one of the two friends. The Fount couldn't help but see his brother and sister, Morning Flour Cookie and Blazing Spice Cookie in them. While the conversation continued, Dark Truffle Cookie and Aiko Cookie got to know each other and the two seemed to be besties. Aiko Cookie was currently a blueberry bird on her shoulder.

CC: *looks at all the herbs* Bitter Thyme Cookie would have a field day if he were here.

~~~

The audience watched in anticipation as the Sage of Truth cast a spell to demonstrate during his lecture. Sweet Roll Cookie was amazed the second things began. Never had she seen a teacher use magic to begin a lecture like that...

Thinking about it, only one of her friends studied under a private tutor who was a sorcerer. Then again, her friend's family was a bit on the high society side of things. Really nice Cookies though. The Sage began to speak and all listened.

Some of the armored Cookies, a few with skeptical looks, soon looked at the Virtue with intrigue and fascination. The academy students were hurrying to write down they could, some of them had sparkling eyes. Sweet Roll Cookie listened and watched as the Sage spoke like the others. He really knew how to draw in a crowd...

Sweet Roll: (It's actually fascinating and interesting? When was the last time something was like that not something I just had to learn because it was part of the curriculum?)

Sweet Roll Cookie continued to watch, looking occasionally at the apprentices who either assisted or cast spells of their own. The oldest looked like they were in highschool based on their robes. Apple Faerie Cookie seemed to be the youngest of them.

Caramel Arrow Cookie nodded in agreement with Crunchy Chip Cookie as she stood beside him and visually browsed all of the herbs as well. Her gaze also drifted in Mocha Drizzle Cookie's direction briefly, seeing that they were still busy chatting with Juniperberry Cookie.

CA: Oh absolutely. I have a feeling that the entirety of the medical wing would enjoy a chance to look around here. It wouldn't surprise me if Mocha Drizzle Cookie winds up picking up a few things to give to Bitter Thyme Cookie once we return to the Dark Cacao Kingdom.

Crunchy Chip Cookie similarly nodded as he too glanced in the secret assassin's direction.

CC: That or they're going to pick up some herbs to pacify and appease the head healer with. Do you think she'd take a bribe? I actually don't know if she would.

Grapevine Cookie and Honey Crisp Cookie found themselves close enough to eavesdrop a bit on the conversation that the Dark Cacaoians were having, but it didn't manage to hold their interest or attention span for long. Honey Crisp Cookie wound up deciding to go play with Dark Truffle Cookie and Aiko Cookie instead, thinking they would be more fun to hang out with.

That left Grapevine Cookie to wander the store and look around as well. He was feeling a bit more comfortable about venturing out of the Fount's shadow, though he still preferred to keep both the Virtue and his sister in his line of sight even as he browsed the shelves.

Truth be told, he did find herbs and apothecary work a bit fascinating. Having lived on the streets for so long with Honey Crisp Cookie, he was at least somewhat familiar with medicinal plants and the ways they could be used to treat minor injuries and illnesses when healing magic wasn't available.

~~~~

Despite his usual attitude towards the Sage, even the Recluse had to begrudgingly admit that the demonstration and associated lecture was intriguing. It wasn't the first time he had silently watched one of the Sage's lectures, but he seemed to discover something new every time he did sit in on one.

The Sage briefly glanced in the Recluse and Sweet Roll Cookie's direction at one point to acknowledge their presence among the crowd, which prompted an even bigger and brighter smile to spread across his face. His attention couldn't linger for long though before he had to return it to the lesson.

With the help of several of his apprentices, the Sage drew a set of glowing and magical runes into the air for the lecture hall to see. The outer rings of the runic circles were broken apart in a way that left the spells inert for now, which was likely for safety reasons so a wild spell didn't get loose in the lecture hall.

Sage: Now! If you'll direct your attention to the center stage... These are what we call runes! More specifically, these are runes arranged in such a way to invoke a particular kind of magic. Can anyone in the crowd tell me what this is?

Almost instantly, several eager hands raised in the audience as several of the Academy students and even some wandering mages wanted to chime in. Despite the eagerness, no one seemed to start shouting or trying to talk over one another.

The Sage's eyecings glittered with approval as he saw just how many arms raised in the crowd. He nodded in approval before he motioned with his arm to urge the Cookies to speak their thoughts.

Student 1: It's Dark Moon Magic, right?

Student 2: Those are rifts!

Sage: Correct and correct! What you're seeing here are glyphs for a very particular Dark Moon Magic spell. This is a spell of my own personal creation and I use it to call forth my Other-Realm.

The Sage drew the rest of one of the smaller glyphs and finished the circle around it, which caused it to activate. It turned into a small rift of golden white light just like the rift he had entered from, though he stuck his arm inside this one instead of entering it completely.

After a moment, the Virtue pulled a teacup free from the rift and gave cheers with it before he took a sip of the liquid that was still inside of it.

Sage: Dark Moon Magic calls upon what we call the Dark Side of the Moon, much like how things such as healing magic will call upon the light side of the moon. The Moon graciously gives us these blessings and the ability to call upon her magic and that's something every spellcaster should be grateful for.

His smile stretched into something a bit more mystical as he winked at the audience.

Sage: Much like how we give thanks to Nature for allowing us to wield the power of elemental magic. These things are all connected in mysterious ways.

[the-lonely-spire]

Anmitsu: Hai, hai, then let's go then! *opens the door* Ojisan! (Uncle)

Lumen: *looks over* Oh, Anmitsu Cookie. *sees the others* ! Dark Cacao Cookie, princess, and everyone else!

Juniperberry: *smiles under her mask*

DC: *walks in with the others* Greetings, Lumen Nutmeg Cookie. Hello again, Juniperberry Cookie. We were passing by when we decided to visit.

Fount: Hello again, you two. I'm glad we get to see you once more.

Lumen: As am I. Welcome to the Nutmeg Apothecary. Please look around. We can help if you wish to purchase something.

Dark Truffle Cookie walked to Juniperberry Cookie and they shared a hug. This time, she only wore a medical mask. The rest of her face was visible, as well as her long, thick braid. The others greeted Lumen Nutmeg Cookie, the Dark Cacaocians haven't seen him in sometime.

Mocha Drizzle Cookie took a look at the herbs in stock. They recognized a few names, having seen them in the infirmary and in the Apothecary run by Bitter Thyme Cookie. Other herbs, they weren't sure of what they were.

Juniperberry Cookie was more than happy to show them around. She still spoke in sign language, but communication was established. Lightwave Cookie looked at some of the herbs in stock, having remembered her master, Violet Sorcerer Cookie, was in need of some. Perhaps she'd take advantage of the trip to get some.

Cream Wolf was outside because he couldn't fit through the door. As for Lumen Nutmeg Cookie, he was told of what happened when they visited the hospital...

Lumen: The Crimson Stone reacted to your Soul Jams... And they might be the key to help my firebird walk again...?

DC: That seems to be the case. After the Soul Jam of Hope touched my own, Ebany Rosette Cookie said that she felt something. When Hollyberry Cookie returned from speaking with her, she told us what happened when her Soul Jam touched the Crimson Stone. Perhaps if the Soul Jam of Hope connects with the Soul Jams of Truth, Abundance, and Freedom, then Ebany Rosette Cookie could walk once more...

Lumen Nutmeg Cookie didn't answer right away. He took it all in and thought about it. Like his daughter, his mind analyzed the details of what he heard and what he knew. The Fount could see where Ebany Rosette Cookie inherited her analytical mind. She and her father seemed to make the same expression.

Lumen: ... I can see how the Soul Jams could possibly be waking up the Light of Hope. Not only is it within a whole Soul Jam, but it was used in completely different ways until it truly awakened with Ebany Rosette Cookie. I wouldn't be surprised if it evolved... or that was how it was made to be long ago.

Fount: ... If I could answer that, I would... Before my siblings and I were sent to Earthbread, our Creators taught us about our Soul Jams, but not one of them ever mentioned a sixth. Nor did my brother, Silent Salt Cookie, ever say that he was the one who hid it away. *shakes head* None of us ever knew this until Rose Phoenix Cookie revealed to me what happened after her time as Wielder ended.

Lumen: When she heard the Light of Hope speak, yet it could not hear her. *looks at the group* Knowing mis sobrinas, my nieces, they'll make it so the other Ancient Heroes arrive. Not just to see Ebany Rosette Cookie and help her, but to enjoy some time in the Mythic Lands. Speaking of which, how are you all doing? And your family, Fount?

~~~

Sage: And I repeat, perish the thought! My lectures are never boring! I know how to keep the audience engaged, for it is made of Cookies of all kinds. Scholars, adventurers, working Cookies, and many more. Each one has different attention spans and ways they learn the best. I try to be as transparent as I possibly can with my students. Should they struggle no matter the topic or subject, then I will guide them and help all I can. The rest is up to them. Cookies are their own persons after all.

Sweet Roll Cookie looked at the Sage, listening to his words... Never had she heard a teacher say that. She hadn't even heard the elders of her Clan speak that way in regards of teaching... The teachers she had in the past... A lot were nice, but their patience ended because of rowdy children and the class as a whole suffered.

She wondered... What will the lecture be like...? Was the Sage all he cracked himself up to be? Had he ever lost his patience before? Snapped at his class? At the Cookies he teaches or has taught? No Cookie, no matter how patient and calm they are could ever go without losing their patience at least once... And those they snapped at took their frustrations on were the students they taught.

Sweet Roll Cookie looked away, remembering back when her teachers lectured the class about their behavior. She often wondered why she had to suffer along with them since she never did anything aside from not understand materials or lessons a lot of the time. The others...? They were loud and obnoxious, giving both headaches to her and the teachers...

Sweet Roll: *sighs silently* (Is it legit or still good to be true...? Part of me wants to go to school here... But... I dunno...) *wings tense*

The bells of the Academy then rang. Their melodious rings sounded throughout the school grounds. The doors below opened to let in the Cookies who wished to attend the evening lecture. The Sage watched as the crowd below entered.

Sage: It's time. *looks at the others* Come along then, everyone. We best not be late!

The Sage used his magic to make a portal to take them to a secluded part where the Recluse and Sweet Roll Cookie could enter discreetly. His apprentices remained at his side when they parted ways. They occasionally helped out with the other apprentices, young and old, should they be present.

Truthless Recluse held out his hand to Sweet Roll Cookie who took it and followed him. Normally, he stayed in the very back, but this time, for Sweet Roll Cookie's sake, he sat them down in a spot where they would have a good view and hear well.

The Cookies around them were surprised to see him of all Cookies present... Some looked at Sweet Roll Cookie curiously, wondering if the hermit made a little friend. Out of habit, Sweet Roll Cookie extended her wing to wrap around Truthless Recluse's arm. It was another version of holding hands and what some Phoenix Cookie chicks did with family or those they trusted.

The Fount had taken on a thoughtful and analytical look as he thought over how the Crimson Stone worked as well and its effects on Ebany Rosette Cookie, but he was drawn out of his thoughts by Lumen Nutmeg Cookie's question. He ran the question through his head again to make sure he had heard it correctly before he smiled.

Fount: I would say that everyone is doing well! Honey Crisp Cookie and Grapevine Cookie have decided to stay with me for the time being and accompanied me to the Mythic Lands. My siblings are still recovering from what happened on the battlefield, but they're doing well physically. Mentally...

The Virtue briefly cast a glance in Dark Cacao Cookie's direction before he focused on Lumen Nutmeg Cookie again.

Fount: I believe they're making good progress. Their memories were still a bit scrambled by the time I left the Spire but they're slowly starting to come to the realization of what happened and I believe they're genuinely remorseful for their actions thus far. I intend to continue keeping an eyecing on them once we return to Beast-Yeast.

HC: And he has to plan his wedding too! That's also happening!

The Fount regarded Honey Crisp Cookie for a moment as he covered his mouth with his hand, unable to contain the chuckle that wanted to escape him.

Fount: Yes... That's something else that needs to be done. Elder Faerie Cookie is doing well. He stayed at night at the Spire with me when we first returned before departing to attend to his duties in his kingdom.

Dark Cacao Cookie was quiet to give the Fount plenty of time to finish speaking. Once the Virtue had done so and given the king a nod to encourage him to take the stage then, he faced Lumen Nutmeg Cookie as well.

DC: The Dark Cacao Kingdom is doing well. The Cookies of the region are nothing if not resilient and strong in the face of hardship. Damage as a result of the war was minimal and the kingdom's Cookies are on the mend. I believe we will be enjoying an era of peace for the foreseeable future.

~~~~

The Recluse regarded Sweet Roll Cookie and the way she wrapped her wing around him with curiosity as his staff glanced at her, but he allowed the touch. He shifted his arm just a bit, allowing it to comfortably rest while she held onto it.

The surprised and curious Cookies who watched the Recluse and Sweet Roll Cookie only stared for a moment before they turned around to face the stage of the lecture hall. There were many Cookies dressed in Blueberry Yogurt Academy uniforms among the crowd but there were also Cookies who wore ordinary clothing or even armor, indicating that the Sage had been truthful when he said that the evening lectures were open to any and all who chose to attend.

The stage was empty at the moment, leaving the only sounds of the lecture hall to be the quiet murmurs and conversations that passed between the gathered Cookies. The gathered crowd wouldn't be waiting for long, however, before a glittering golden rift appeared on the center of the stage.

The Sage emerged soon afterwards from the rift in all of his glory, waving to the crowd with a bright smile as the glittering golden magic cloaked him like a wreath. He took a deep bow to both ends of the lecture hall, further drawing all eyecings to him.

Not a singular Cookie or student in the crowd seemed to be speaking as they were instead captivated by the magical entrance. Many of the academy students also pulled out books or notepads in preparation of taking notes.

After a moment, the Virtue finally straightened back up to face his audience.

Sage: Good evening and welcome to our wondrous lecture hall! Many of you will already know me but for those of you seeing me for the very first time... You may call me the Sage of Truth. I am the Headmaster of the Blueberry Yogurt Academy and I'll be one of the Cookies demonstrating for you today!

The Sage brought his hands together then in a responding clap, his smile brightening even further as he did so.

Sage: Apprentices! To me!

At the Sage's call, Violet Sapphire Cookie and Apple Faerie Cookie emerged from the rift as well before taking their place at their professor's side with proud smiles of their own. However, they weren't the only Cookies who emerged as a few more left the rift as well in similar uniforms to the siblings and took their places at the Sage's side as well.

The Sage allowed the rift to close and drew the magic back to his staff instead, causing it to glow as he prepared it to cast other spells instead.

Sage: Now... Let us begin!

[the-lonely-spire]

Dulce: Of course. I'll see if I can round up the rest of my siblings so you can see them before you go.

Fount: *smiles* I would love that.

Dulce: *smiles back* If you head to the guild hall now, you'll see Burnt Cajeta Cookie. Anmitsu Cookie and Lightwave Cookie can get you in.

Anmitsu: *holds up her Adventurer's ID*

Lightwave: *holds up her own* *one rank lower* I don't participate as often but Anmitsu Cookie helped me move up the ranks as a part time fighter and healer.

CC: Oh, does this mean the rest of you are adventurers as well?

JT: I am. SS Rank.

Amalia: Only on occasion. Ebany Rosette Cookie isn't one, but she did get an ID for the unorthodox branch.

Fount: ? Unorthodox branch?

Anmitsu: A branch for hybrids who live unintentional adventurous lives. They need to supply proof of an adventure and that's how they get paid. It was established by someone years ago who felt like the universe had it out for them. A simple trip to the market turned into a run for their lives! Uh, what was chasing them?

Lightwave: A wild manticore who ran off from the smugglers it had been captured by. That was around... Almost 70 years ago if I'm right.

CA: ! Is that a normal thing??

Lightwave: Thankfully no. Things were much more wild back in the last century. But because of those incidents and the Cookie who unfortunately went through all that, they established the unorthodox branch. It has quite the amount of members today.

HC: Does that mean Ebany Rosette Cookie is going to get paid a bunch?

Lightwave: When she goes to the guild and claims what she's owed, yes. The war has been all over the news here so there's plenty of proof. Plus, it's a known fact that she always ends up in things she never intends to do or make happen. Now then, shall we get going?

Everyone was in agreement that it was time to go. Brightstar Cookie hopped down and shifted into her Cookie form, amazing those who weren't used to seeing such a thing. Brightstar looked over and smirked confidently. The Fount could see the difference between here and then. Brightstar Cookie looked much more mature than he remembered.

Amalia Cookie offered a complimentary bag of bitter sweets for the Dark Cacaocians. It was accepted out of politeness, but Mocha Drizzle Cookie had a feeling that Dark Cacao Cookie liked them more than he let on... and Dark Truffle Cookie got a secret bag of cinnamon bread balls.

The group departed, waving goodbye to Amalia Cookie, Jasmine Tea Cookie, Evie Cookie, and Night. Hana now stood by her daughter, looking majestic and regal. Honey Crisp Cookie got to pet them before leaving. The only safe way to not get mauled by a wild dessert animal was hope they were someone's familiar!

The group continued on the way to the guild which happened to be on the same path as the Nutmeg Apothecary. Inside, Lumen Nutmeg Cookie was arranging herbs and Juniperberry Cookie was assisting him. Outside, the group caught sight of the shop.

DC: Is this the Nutmeg Apothecary?

Anmitsu: Hai. And it's open. There's a lot of different herbs and herbal medicines are made too, though they always recommend to see the primary care physician as well. Anyone wanna say hello and maybe stock up on some herbs for the road?

~~~

Sweet Roll: Is he a super master of disguise? He turned into a doll yesterday!

VS: Essentially, yes.

Sweet Roll Cookie understood quickly, getting the message that it was a secret. To her, it was obvious the Sage had some connection to the portraits... The color scheme never changed. Had they been different colors, then she would have been left guessing.

More and more of the Academy was seen as they continued. There were stairs but also elevators, both mechanical and magical. Though, since everyone could fly, they just needed to go up. The Sage used his magic to lift up Truthless Recluse. Once more, Sweet Roll Cookie felt like she was in a fantasy story, having really only seen schools like the academy in books.

After a while longer, the tour came to an end at a rest on one of the balconies. Sweet Roll Cookie had her hands on the railing as she looked at the ground. Violet Sapphire Cookie and Apple Faerie Cookie stood on each side of her.

VS: Well? What did you think?

Sweet Roll: ... It still feels like I'm in a fairytale. My old school was nothing like this and the actual magic schools were miles away or too expensive... Magic is taught to us among the Clan, but to really embrace it... You usually have to go away and travel far to get experience. At least that's how it's been for as long as I can remember.

AF: Do you wanna go to school here? There's no bullying! And if someone picks on you, lemme know! I'll have a nice chat with them!

VS: That means they're getting glitter bombed.

AF: Sapphy! Don't give it away!

Watching the two banter reminded Sweet Roll Cookie of her friends back home. She looked back at the landscape and wondered for a moment what it would be like to go to school here. Part of her still says that it's not real and too good to be true. She also wanted to see her father too.

Everyone considered Anmitsu Cookie's question as some looked at her and some looked at the sign that hung from the building. The Fount was among those that seemed to be contemplating before he gave a small nod.

Fount: I don't see why not. I wouldn't mind saying hello to Ebany Rosette Cookie's father.

DC: I would like to say hello to him as well.

CC: Plus we gotta say hey to Juniperberry Cookie! She helped out the Dark Cacao Kingdom and made tons of friends there so we gotta say hello before we leave too!

HC: Didn't you already say hello to her at the hospital?

CC: And? Establishing connections with our allies takes more than just one greeting!

~~~~

Apple Faerie Cookie puffed her cheeks out and lightly shoved at her brother's arm in a huff. Violet Sapphire Cookie seemed to find her reaction amusing because he laughed as he leaned away from the shoving and light punching on his arm.

The Sage didn't seem concerned by the siblings' behavior, which confirmed that their fight was playful and not something that needed to be broken up. Instead, the Virtue joined Sweet Roll Cookie by the railing.

Sage: Now, now, my sweet little apple... It's not just our decision or Sweet Roll Cookie's decision if she goes to school here. As much as I would love to have her as a student here as well, her father would have to approve first! And, furthermore...

He smiled warmly as he looked down at the young Phoenix Cookie.

Sage: She hasn't even seen the evening lecture yet! She doesn't know what our classes are like just yet.

Recluse: To which I repeat what I said earlier. You had better not make that lecture boring for either of us.

[the-lonely-spire]

Brightstar: I've heard! Had to come and see you lot for myself. I'd show you around my old Clan grounds but... Kitaro Clan is the more reclusive type with most folks. Hold still, Blueberry. *climbs up his robes* *settles on his shoulders* Much better~! *nuzzles against his cheek and purrs*

Fount: 🥰 *pets her* Aww, since when were you so affectionate?

Brightstar: Hehe, I didn't let you pet me often back when I was a kid, did I? Time really changes you. *purring*

HC: So cute!

Brightstar: You can pet me next after this guy's done.

It was true that Brightstar Cookie rarely let the Fount or anyone aside from her close friends to pet her. She was just 18 when they met for the first time, the youngest of her group of friends... The Fount caught sight of the mark of immortality he had been told about. It was how Brightstar Cookie was still alive.

Crunchy Chip Cookie blinked when he saw a talking cat. He knew that some of Ebany Rosette Cookie's friends should shift, but it still surprised him most of the time. He remembered Brightstar Cookie from the war. She was the brawler type of warrior in a fight.

CA: *looks at Amalia* Amalia Cookie, can you change into a cat as well?

Amalia: Various cats actually. So long as I know what they look like. When we're kits, we can only shift into kittens or cubs. Evie Cookie can shift into a kitten now.

Said Cookie was still in Anmitsu Cookie's arms. Anmitsu Cookie held the baby up to her ancestor who happily nuzzled her. Evie Cookie couldn't help but coo and purr. Inside the bakery, someone was watching...

DT: *looks up* ! There's a big kitty in the window!

Everyone who heard turned to look at the window and saw... a butter tiger cub?

Amalia: Oh, that's Zuri. My mother has a white frosted tiger familiar called Hana. Zuri is her daughter. Looks like she woke up from her nap.

Zuri watched the Cookies curiously before hopping down. She walked out the back through a kitty door and made her way to the main entrance. Twirl caught her scent and followed it, but when he looked around the corner, he saw Zuri about to pounce! The next thing Twirl knew, he got pounced on and ended up playing with the butter tiger cub.

Twirl & Zuri: :D

And that wasn't all. Cream Wolf caught sight of something and barked. Another tiger was watching from the corner, but it wasn't another cub. It was a full grown white tiger!

Amalia: Hi Hana!

CC: ! That's Hana...?!

Amalia: Yeah! She's very protective of Zuri and probably keeping an eye on her. But don't worry, she's really sweet. Just not to robbers or bullies.

CC: I doubt you'd get robbed at all the second someone sees her!

Amalia: *giggles* The looks of terror are way more funny than they should be!

Just imagining that sounded funny. Wind Lily Cookie eventually called Aiko Cookie to her side. Having gotten what she needed, it was time for them to go.

Lily: Anmitsu Cookie, make sure you get home at a reasonable hour if it gets too dark and let me know if you'll be late.

Anmitsu: *gives Evie to Amalia* Hai, okkasan. Got it!

Aiko: *shifted back* *hugs her* Onee-Chan, can I go meet your other friends later?

Anmitsu: *hugs back* I don't see why not. We'll be meeting up later with them... *looks at her mom* Okkasan? Think Aiko-tan can stick around? The kids wanted to meet Aiko after I told them about her.

Lily: *thinks about it* (Alright then.) Aiko Cookie can stay, but come home before dinner.

Aiko: Hai, mama!

Anmitsu: I'll get her home before then, don't worry!

Lily: Very well. I'll see you soon. *looks at everyone else* Min'na-sama, I wish you all a good day. *bows her head and leaves*

The Dark Cacaocians returned the gesture while the others waved or did the same. They had a new addition to the group it seems!

Dulce: *comes out with Condor* That took longer than expected... Are you sure you don't need help, honey?

Condor: *carrying the stuff they got* *shakes head* I got it.

Fount: *looks over* Rosie, you're back!

Dulce: Sorry for the wait. *walks over with Condor* *sees Twirl and Zuri playing* Though it looks like everyone was entertained. *sees Brightstar* Oh, tía, you're here too!

Brightstar: Hi there Dulce, Condor. *getting pets from Honey Crisp Cookie*

Dulce: *smiles* Since it's been a while, where do you plan to go next?

Anmitsu: *picks up Aiko and puts her on her shoulders* Pretty much just walking around since it's the best way to see everything! And the Nutmeg Apothecary will be on route!

Dulce: Then this is where we part ways for the moment. Condor and I have a few things to do but it's likely you'll see us at the manor again.

Zuri: *runs around chasing Twirl* *rawr!*

~~~

Sweet Roll: Does he do this a lot? *looks at the others*

AF: Only when someone mentions education and money.

VS: Or when he gets passionate or is about to scold someone.

Sweet Roll: Oh.

The Sage cleared his throat, getting his composure back, though money talk always got him going into a rant.

Sage: Ahem, apologies Sweet Roll Cookie... As you can probably assume, I detest to charge any amount for knowledge...

Sweet Roll: *nods* Noted.

The siblings decided to continue the tour before their teacher could say anything and took Sweet Roll Cookie elsewhere, making the others catch up. While walking down the halls, Sweet Roll Cookie took notice of several portraits on the walls. Some were of students, staff, and other Cookies from years past or present. However, a few stood out to Sweet Roll Cookie.

Sweet Roll: Does the Sage have a lot of family?

VS: There's his siblings and his mother, as well as aunts. Why?

Sweet Roll: *points to the portraits* Who are those guys? They look like him.

Honey Crisp Cookie's eyecings sparkled with wonder as she pet Brightstar Cookie and took care not to accidentally pull her fur. The Fount's extra eyecings watched Honey Crisp Cookie and Brightstar Cookie both, causing the eyecings to turn up in a smile as he focused his regular gaze on Dulce Rosalie Cookie and her husband instead.

Fount: Alright! That will be fine, Rosie. I take it we'll see you sometime before the day is over then? I would like to see everyone at the manor at least one more time before the children and I have to return to Beast-Yeast.

~~~~

Violet Sapphire Cookie and Apple Faerie Cookie followed Sweet Roll Cookie's hand to look at the particular portraits she had seen. Recognition flashed behind both of their eyecings before the siblings shared a glance yet again, seeming to have some sort of silent conversation pass between them.

Apple Faerie Cookie soon glanced over her shoulder to glance in the Sage's direction. Violet Sapphire Cookie subtly looked in his professor's direction as well before he crossed his arms, seeming to contemplate something.

It was clear that the siblings knew something, but they seemed a bit hesitant to say anything. After a moment of deliberation, Violet Sapphire Cookie finally leaned in to whisper to Sweet Roll Cookie.

VS: You didn't hear this from me, but... Those portraits... They're all pictures of the professor.

[the-lonely-spire]

Lily: Only the infant forms of animals for now. Her powers surfaced when she was around three. It started with animal ears and tails popping out before she managed to shift into an actual dessert animal. Shape Shifter Cookies are a bit rare around these parts so finding where Aiko Cookie originated from was difficult. We stopped looking a long time ago... If Aiko Cookie wants to find her origins when she's older, then we'll support her.

Fount: I see... so there are Shape Shifter Cookies in the Mythic Lands as well?

Lily: Yes. However, the nearest tribe lives far from here. As united as we are, not everyone got along. Shape Shifter Cookies are true natives, they were already here when the Mythic Cookies came here long ago. The Founders approached them with peace in their hearts and all was well for a long time...

Wind Lily Cookie explained that the Shape Shifter Cookies were forced off their lands by many Mythic Cookies who weren't part of any Clans in particular. They were mistreated and it took a long time to make true peace. No place was ever truly perfect.

Dark Cacao Cookie could understand. When establishing his kingdom, there were Cookies there who either didn't align with him or were unsettled. And there were times where he failed to help or save tribes of Cookies who needed his help.

Brightstar: Every place has their shadows. As much as our home is a paradise now, it wasn't always.

Fount: ! *Looks around* Brightstar Cookie?? Where are you?

DC: Hm? *looks around*

Brightstar: Down here.

All looked down to see a blue and brown fluffy cat. Brightstar Cookie meowed and purred against the Fount's robes.

Brightstar: *purring* Hello everyone. Came to visit the family and for my usual.

Amalia: Hi Meowma!

~~~

Sweet Roll: My school was definitely smaller...

AF: And we haven't gotten to the upper floors! That's where the observatory is!

Sweet Roll: Wow... I thought only high schools and colleges were this fancy.

VS: Perhaps elsewhere but not here! *smiles brightly*

Sweet Roll: Hm... *looks at the place*

Despite her disbelief, Sweet Roll Cookie was amazed by all the Blueberry Yogurt Academy had. Her school was definitely smaller, being only an elementary school. The Blueberry Yogurt Academy as built to hold the upper grades and education.

Sweet Roll: Is it expensive?

Sage: Witches, no! As much as I detest to charge tuition, I have no choice but to so that certain facilities here keep running. I try to ensure that it's adorable for everyone to attend here! But my evening lectures are completely free! Oh, how I wish I didn't have to charge a dime! Don't tell me they charge tuition where you live!

Sweet Roll: Private schools are expensive and so are universities. That's what my dad told me. It's part of the reason why I didn't go to a magic school right off the bat. They're all too expensive or super far away.

Mocha Drizzle Cookie could also understand Wind Lily Cookie's story about the natives to some degree. While they hadn't been around for nearly as long as Dark Cacao Cookie, they were from a native tribe of Cookies and had heard some of the area's history from some of the older Cookies of the Coffee Tribe.

They didn't get a chance to add a comment though, instead quickly finding themself distracted by Brightstar Cookie's sudden appearance much like everyone else. Honey Crisp Cookie wound up staring at the newcomer with eyecings, though Grapevine Cookie gave her a light tap on the shoulder to remind her not to stare.

The Fount allowed Brightstar Cookie to brush past his robes as he offered his old friend a bright smile. He also found himself having to resist the urge to bend down and pet her because it was hard not to mistake her for an ordinary feline in her current form.

Fount: Hello, Brightstar Cookie. It's a pleasure to see you. I hope you don't mind us all dropping by today. Anmitsu Cookie has been giving us a grand tour around Ochreshire.

~~~~

Something shifted behind the Sage's eyecings as he listened to Sweet Roll Cookie's explanation about the expensive schools where she came from. Apple Faerie Cookie and Violet Sapphire Cookie shared a look with one another, having recognized their professor's expression as the one he usually made right before he was about to launch into a scolding or passionate rant.

The Recluse seemed to realize this as well because he let out a quiet grunt and shook his head. Despite his silent request to not launch into a speech, the Sage was already crossing his arms and letting out a huff.

Sage: Ridiculous! Absolutely ridiculous... I've heard of some schools costing a family a lifetime's worth of Coin and I think that's a bunch of ridiculous nonsense! All the more reason why I would make the tuition here at the Blueberry Yogurt Academy completely free if I were able!

The Virtue waved his arms for emphasis, already having fallen deep into his speech even as Violet Sapphire Cookie and Apple Faerie Cookie lightly tugged on his tailcoat to try to distract him. The siblings also cast an apologetic look in Sweet Roll Cookie's direction.

Sage: Honestly! Knowledge is something meant to be shared and not hoarded for the right price! Especially for the younger generations! Learning shouldn't have to be something that only the wealthy and fortunate are able to obtain! I think it's ridiculous that the masses decided we needed to put a price on such a thing!

Recluse: Sage.

Sage: And furthermore! I don't like the fact that-

Recluse: Sage!

The Recluse firmly stamped the bottom of his staff against the floor as he called out to the Sage a second time, which was finally enough to catch the Virtue's attention as he gave the healer a dumbstruck blink. The healer responded in turn by letting out a sigh and pinching the dough between his eyecings.

Recluse: You're rambling. Try not to scare Sweet Roll Cookie, would you?

[the-lonely-spire]

Amalia: *purrs* My parents are in charge right now. I hope to take over one day, but that's not for a while. I still have a lot to learn.

HC: 😍 Yummy!!! *eating happily*

Grapevine: *tries a pastry* !! *nods in agreement*

Fount: May I?

Amalia: *nods* Of course.

The Fount looked at the pastries and made his choice of a bun with sweat cream cheese filling. One bite and he could taste the deliciousness of the dessert. The bread was nice and flaky, soft, and buttery, the cream cheese was smooth and sweet, just the right amount of thickness!

Fount: This is divine! You really are a master baker!

Amalia: ☺️ I'm glad you like it. *looks over* Your Majesty, how is it?

DC: Quite good, Amalia Cookie. It's not often I find bitter foods outside the Dark Cacao Kingdom. Your friends have spoken about your baking and they spoke the truth.

Aiko Cookie was having fun petting the wolves when Dark Truffle Cookie walked up to her. The two started talking and seemed to be becoming fast friends. What surprised the princess was when Aiko Cookie shift into a cream Wolf pup!

DT: ! How'd you do that?!

Aiko: I'm a shape shifter! I can change into different animals! But just little ones for now.

JT: Great job, Aiko Cookie! You're getting better!

Aiko: *yips*

Dark Cacao Cookie and his Cookies were once again left impressed by the Cookies of the Mythic Lands. The King had believed that shape shifting was difficult for some but it seems that not everyone had such difficulties. Twirl yipped happily and got to playing with Aiko Cookie who happily played with him. Wind Lily Cookie watched with a chuckle.

Anmitsu: *holding the baby* I haven't mentioned enough that my little sister is a shape shifter, have I?

Lily: We found Aiko at our doorstep when she was just a doughling. We tried to find any trace of her family but nothing came up. After speaking with my husband, father, and our children, we decided to adopt Aiko Cookie. She's our little ray of sunshine!

DC: ... *smiles as he watches the kids play* As my daughter is to me.

Inside the bakery, Condor Corn Cookie and Dulce Rosalie Cookie were choosing the things they needed and stuff to share for later at the family manor. Since she and her husband have time off, maybe they can stop by and help make dinner unless everyone eats out.

~~~

Sweet Roll: *adds ketchup* It's better than the lunches at my old school!

AF: Do tell how they sucked!

Sweet Roll: Not all was bad, but some of them...

Sweet Roll Cookie explained how some of the lunches served at her school weren't the best and rather strange for her. Friday always seemed to be pizza day of some sort, but the pizza wasn't that tasty. Some of the other meals didn't sound good either.

VS: So which is better? Here or there?

Sweet Roll: *swallows* Here. The bread actually tastes good, better than the buns over there because it's not dry. It's whole wheat too! *takes another bite*

AF: *tilts head* Do you prefer meat?

Sweet Roll: *nods* And fruit. A lot of Elf Cookies are vegetarian, but not me. Unless cooked how I like it, I don't like vegetables. Dad found a way to make broccoli tasty and not taste like grass.

AF: I don't like veggies either! But teacher says I have to eat them...

Sage: Because they're good and healthy for you, my little apple blossom. But fret not, I know a thing about picky eaters. But today is a special day! Just make sure not to eat too much enough to get a stomach ache!

AF: I won't!

The children continued to eat, as did Truthless Recluse. He had ignored the stares of students when they passed by, but was secretly grateful that they were dismissed by the Sage. He looked at Sweet Roll Cookie who seemed to be focused on eating and hadn't noticed.

As much as he didn't like to admit it... Sweet Roll Cookie would probably benefit from going to school here. Her talents and skills can be nourished into something grand. The spells cast before coming here told him that much. Alas, the choice wasn't his but her family's.

Lumen Canela Cookie sounds like a protective and loving parent. He'd probably want his child to get the best education she can. But not only that, it has to be Sweet Roll Cookie's choice to attend... Would she want to? She sounded so full of doubts which he can relate to.

Truthless Recluse remembered the school he once attended... It wasn't like the Blueberry Yogurt Academy here in Baker's Yeast. Much like Sweet Roll Cookie, he was in quite the bout of disbelief when he learned how the academy here worked. He had to see it for himself at a distance.

When the children finished and that plates were put away where they would go to be washed. Sweet Roll Cookie noticed another difference. They just had boxes and containers for their meals, not actually proper plates! As much as she was in disbelief with the Blueberry Yogurt Academy, the apprentices and Sage were in disbelief with her old school.

Now that everyone was full, the tour could continue. Sweet Roll Cookie once was more pulled along with the two apprentices to see the club rooms. To say she was amazed and curious would be an understatement.

Looking inside, Sweet Roll Cookie had never seen such rooms before. She didn't think her school had any club rooms, it would just be classrooms with a teacher supervising while everyone did their thing.

Sweet Roll: Wow... Just what else could be different?

Caramel Arrow Cookie, Crunchy Chip Cookie, and Mocha Drizzle Cookie all found themselves watching the children playing as they enjoyed their own snacks. Crunchy Chip Cookie in particular was awestruck when the young doughling shapeshifted into a cream wolf pup and immediately began to wonder exactly how that worked.

The Fount was no stranger to shapeshifting capabilities due to being a natural shapeshifter himself, but it did fascinate him to see a Cookie who was capable of fully shapeshifting at such a young age. Even if she was only able to transform into young dessert creatures and animals thus far, he still found it impressive.

Listening to Wind Lily Cookie and Dark Cacao Cookie speaking about their children also prompted the Virtue's gaze to wander towards Honey Crisp Cookie and Grapevine Cookie. The thought of potentially adopting them both and taking them under his wing floated through his mind again, but he returned those thoughts to the shelves after a moment as he reminded himself that they had important things to do and important places to visit first.

Despite that, the thought quietly lingered in the back of his mind as he smiled at Wind Lily Cookie.

Fount: I must say... Your daughter's shapeshifting is very impressive for her age! Shapeshifting isn't a particularly common power to begin with and it can take time to master. Aiko Cookie seems to have a natural talent for it if she's able to assume multiple forms already.

~~~~

Violet Sapphire Cookie and Apple Faerie Cookie seemed just as giddy as ever for their tour, arguably even more so now that they had both had a meal. Violet Sapphire Cookie took charge of explaining what the club rooms were for and each club that they represented while Apple Faerie Cookie focused on the fun aspects and happily explained the kind of activities that took place in each one.

The Sage listened all the while with a bright smile, having taken a back seat in the tour alongside the Recluse again to allow the children to explain and be curious together.

When Sweet Roll Cookie finally asked what else could be different about their school versus her old one, the pair of siblings immediately turned thoughtful again. They shared a look with one another as both tried to think of the other standout classrooms and facilities that the Academy held.

AF: There's the club rooms... The lecture hall... The auditorium... The observatory... All kinds of cool stuff! There's cool stuff everywhere!

VS: Yes, there's many things around the Blueberry Yogurt Academy. The lecture hall is where we'll be going later for the professor's evening lecture!

[the-lonely-spire]

Anmitsu: *chuckles* (Don't worry about it.) The bakery's a hop, skip, and a jump from here. Not in the literal sense of course.

Dulce: *smiles* We'll lead the way.

Dulce Rosalie Cookie linked arms with her husband and they led the way to the bakery. Twirl happily trotted by Dark Truffle Cookie's side as she held her father's hand. The bakery was indeed close by and there were a few Cookies sitting at little tables outside, some looked quite familiar while others were unknown. Jasmine Tea Cookie and Amalia Cookie were there, as was Jasmine's dark cream wolf, Night.

Amalia: *ears twitch* Nya? *looks over* *holding a toddler* Ah! Everyone! *waves them over*

Anmitsu: Jasmine-Chan! Amy-Chan!

???: Onee-Chan!!! *runs right up to her*

Anmitsu: !! Aiko Cookie?! *catches her and scoops her up* You're here too?

Aiko: Hai! With mama!

Anmitsu: Mama? *looks over* ! Okkasan! (Mom)

A woman was there wearing a blue kimono and her hair tied up in a traditional updo. She looked a lot like Anmitsu Cookie, having the same silver eyes. The others arrived and saw the resemblance immediately as well as the new faces.

Fount: Oh, I don't believe we've met...

Anmitsu: Min'na-sama, this is my mom and little sister. Wind Lily Cookie and Aiko Cookie. (Mom, Aiko-tan, these are the friends I told you about).

Lily: *bows politely* Hajimemashite, it's a pleasure to meet you all. Thank you for taking care of my daughter while she's been adventuring across the sea.

Crunchy Chip Cookie knew back home that many say to take care of them or they're in someone's care but... Anmitsu Cookie needed nothing of that! But he might get elbowed if he said something rude. Cream Wolf on the other hand, greeted his wolf friend and introduced him to Twirl.

The little pup's tail wagged as he sniffed the other wolf. Night looked at Twirl and found him cute. He also got pets from Dark Truffle Cookie and Jasmine Tea Cookie who was elated to meet a cute puppy. While introductions took place, Aiko Cookie's eyes sparkled when she saw Cream Wolf and Twirl.

Anmitsu Cookie put down her little sister while she talked to the others. The group learned that Wind Lily Cookie had the power of wind and air, her husband had ice and their two older children had participated in the war helping the other kingdoms. Wind Lily Cookie was buying some bread when they arrived.

And the baby in Amalia Cookie's arms? That was Evie Cookie, her baby sister who was almost two years old. The kit got excited when she saw familiar faces. Anmitsu Cookie picked her up and nuzzled with her. Everyone thought the doughling was adorable and she had tiny little ears and a cute little tail!

Evie Cookie stared at the Fount, never having seen a blue Cookie. The Fount smiles and held his hand to her. Evie Cookie reached for his hair, loving the sparkles instead. The Fount couldn't help but chuckle, seeing that was a favorite among toddlers. While her hands were free, Amalia Cookie hurried in to get samples of various pastries for them to taste.

Crunchy Chip Cookie debates whether some were bitter, but when he tried one of the little round pastries...

CC: ! It is bitter! And tasty too!

Amalia: *purrs* After meeting you a while back, I experimented with a few recipes. A few of our customers expressed that they like bitter foods so I asked them if they could taste test a few experimental recipes. This is one of the results.

DT: *tilts head* *tries one* ! Appa, try one! I think you'd like it!

~~~

Sweet Roll: (Wow, important folks...)

What the Sage said about the Salt of Solidarity reminded her of what her home stood for. It was a known fact even to the youngest children that the Clans were united in friendship. She thought back to her own group of friends... Friends she hoped never to drift from.

Seeing as they had been in the classroom for a while, the apprentices decided that the tour should continue and pulled Sweet Roll Cookie along with them to the next destination. Heading down the halls, they passed the doors to the library. Apple Faerie Cookie pushed the doors open so Sweet Roll Cookie could take a peek.

When she looked inside, Sweet Roll Cookie's eyes widened and her jaw dropped. The library was way bigger than the one at her old school! Like super bigger!

AF: Let me guess, the library at your old school was dinky?

Sweet Roll: Eh... it was decent but not as big as this...

AF: There's a zillion books and cozy corners to hide and read in! I'll show them to you later though, we still got lots to see and you look like the type to spend hours here.

Sweet Roll: If I find interesting stuff.

VS: Speaking of... what sort of genres are you into?

Sweet Roll: Whatever doesn't look like a boring history book. I prefer fantasy and comics. Dad does help me get into fantasy novels though.

AF: We got 'em all! The serious books and fun books! Flying ones too!

Sweet Roll: Flying??

To prove her point, Apple Faerie Cookie pointed to a couple of students who were quietly chasing a couple of books that flew away from them. One had a net but the two stayed quiet because one had to be quiet in the library. Sweet Roll Cookie blinked... Actual flying books...

VS: The books didn't fly at your old school?

Sweet Roll: You had to throw them to do so.

AF: *stomach rumbles* Uh, can we break for lunch? I'm hungry!

Sage: I hear the sound of hunger! *walks closer with Truthless* But not the hunger for knowledge this time. You three probably haven't eaten since breakfast so let us return to the cafeteria. You can't guide a tour on an empty stomach.

The children had to agree, the oldest two now realizing they were getting hungry too. Now, they followed the Sage to the cafeteria. The apprentices listed what was on the menu to Sweet Roll Cookie. While what they said was interesting... They talk a lot. She stuck close to Truthless Recluse for the most part until they arrived to the cafeteria. A few more students were eating at some tables.

Apple Faerie Cookie led Sweet Roll Cookie to the buffet style area. There were lots of options it seems. While they chose, the Sage made sure his dear Recluse got some food for himself. Truthless Recluse realized that he could never escape when the Sage pestered him about his eating habits...

After the guests had gotten their food, as well as the apprentices, they all sat at a table to eat. Both Apple Faerie Cookie and Sweet Roll Cookie avoided vegetables it seemed... Well, Sweet Roll Cookie had a couple pieces of cauliflower amidst her meal.

Sweet Roll: *eating a chicken jelly burger*

Dark Cacao Cookie felt a bit skeptical about the idea, but he did find himself a bit curious how bitter a dessert could be. He also felt somewhat more inclined to believe he may enjoy it if Crunchy Chip Cookie and Dark Truffle Cookie both insisted that he would enjoy the food.

After a bit of careful deliberation, he finally gave a nod.

DC: Very well then. I will give it a try.

Caramel Arrow Cookie and Mocha Drizzle Cookie both exchanged a look with one another, feeling slightly surprised at the fact that their king had agreed so easily. Mocha Drizzle Cookie also found it a bit amusing after they quickly decided that the quick agreement must have been the princess' influence.

While the Dark Cacaoians spoke and sampled the treats, the Fount allowed the little dough to play with his hair. Grapevine Cookie and Honey Crisp Cookie remained close to him... until Honey Crisp Cookie's desire for snacks won and she joined the others to get a sample of the bakery's goods as well.

With a glance from the Fount, Grapevine Cookie received enough encouragement to join his sister.

Fount: What a lovely little bakery! I'm happy to see that the family business seems to be doing well.

~~~~

Some of the students stared in the touring group's direction as they passed by on their way to their own tables, but all it took was a quick glance from the Sage and a finger to his lips to remind them all that it was rude to stare. The students nodded their agreements then and went back to their own meals, though that didn't stop them from occasionally sneaking a peek in his direction.

While it wasn't terribly unusual to see the professor out and about and eating alongside his students, they weren't used to seeing the Recluse with him and that had captivated their attentions. They did briefly glance at Sweet Roll Cookie, but didn't seem particularly stunned by her appearance.

In fact, one of the students even had wings of their own that slowly fluttered behind them as they returned to their meal.

With that, the Sage turned his attention to his own meal. Or, rather, he split his attention between his own food and the Recluse as he pestered his grumpy companion into making sure he fed himself properly.

Apple Faerie Cookie happily ate alongside Sweet Roll Cookie as soon as everyone had gotten settled. She seemed to have gravitated towards sweeter foods like fresh fruit and her favorite jellies, though she had a few savory jellies on her tray at her brother's insistence as well to prevent a sugar overload.

Curiously, Violet Sapphire Cookie himself hadn't put much on his own tray. He had grabbed a small meal for himself, but he was also sharing some of the things he had picked up with Apple Faerie Cookie as he encouraged her to try a wider variety of food.

AF: Mmm! Everything tastes just as good as always!

VS: Most certainly! What do you think, Sweet Roll Cookie?

[the-lonely-spire]

DT: :3 Hello sir.

Condor: *looks at her and smiles* *looks at the rest* It's a pleasure to meet you all. I heard some about you from mi esposa, my wife. *walks to Dulce and nuzzles her* I was making sure there was no foil play when we were put on paid leave, triple checking if you well.

Dulce: Did you make sure to tell them that they're in for it once I'm back?

Condor: Si mi amor. (Yes, my love/Yes dear)

Twirl: *yips* *sniffs him*

Condor: *looks over* Aww... un cachorrito. (A puppy/cub)

DT: This is Twirl, a Cream Wolf pup!

CC: And the princess's bodyguard! Aside from us. Don't let his cute looks fool you! He's a fierce protector!

Twirl wasn't helping with his happy puppy face. The little pup sniffed and licked Condor Corn Cookie's hand when holding it out. Cream Wolf got a few pets too and a good scratch behind the ears.

Condor: *smiling* They remind me of Algodón...

Dulce: *pats his shoulder*

CC: Who?

Dulce: Algodón. He was our whipped cream cake hound several years ago... *takes out her phone and shows them pictures* Algodón means cotton, we named him such because his fur was white and fluffy. He lived 21 years before he left this world. We've been hesitant to get a new pet of any sort because eventually- well, you know. I won't get into it. *finishes her coffee* *pays and leaves a tip* Condor, how about we go to the bakery? They have a sale on your favorite pastries.

Condor: *looks at her* *tilts head*

Dulce: It's fine. We have no choice but to vacation so might as well get something we haven't had in a while.

Anmitsu: Is it the one run by Amy's family?

Dulce: That's the one! Seriously, you need to go there! Fresh bread, cake, sweets, and pastries! Of all kinds, not just sweet and fluffy. There are savory desserts, spicy ones, bitter ones, you name it! They dabble in a lot!

It got several Cookies curious. Dark Truffle Cookie and Honey Crisp Cookie's eyes lit up at the mention of sweets, both loving them. Dark Cacao Cookie was intrigued when bitter desserts were mentioned. He was well aware that not everyone liked bitter desserts so it was rare to find a place with a variety of everything.

Anmitsu: *smirks* We were planning to pass by on route.

Lightwave: It's along the way and we get to see Amalia Cookie. Perhaps Brightstar Cookie too.

Fount: Truly?

Lightwave: *nods* Knowing her, she'll have dragged the other ancestors with her.

Fount: That reminds me... how are they all? We saw Callisto Cookie and Nocturne Phoenix Cookie when we arrived but we haven't seen the others.

Anmitsu: Let's see... *thinks* Lumos Dragon Cookie is probably with his Clan, Brightstar Cookie hangs out with her family, and Ayato Fae Cookie has been asleep... Having interfered the way they did in the war, it took a lot out of the Guardians of Nature so they're all sleeping now, having used a lot of power. That goes to Gramps too. Though, since he's not completely attuned to the Earthbread like the others are, he wakes up more often. Once he gets his energy back, Ayato Fae Cookie will be back up and awake!

~~~

Sweet Roll Cookie didn't say anything yet. She looked at them, wanting to believe that it was true, but... She couldn't. Not yet... Being one of the quiet kids and invisible to the rest, everyone largely left her alone during her school days. But still, they defended their school... Was it really all they made it out to be?

Sweet Roll: ... I'll believe it if I see it.

AF: *thinks* ! I know how! *looks at the Sage* Professor! There's your evening lecture! If Sweet Roll Cookie listens and watches that, it's like what you do in class! It'll show her what the Academy classes are like!

The Sage looked at her and got an idea... The lectures he gave were indeed like some of the lectures he gave in class. Apple Faerie Cookie was right... Sweet Roll Cookie definitely wanted definitive proof that none of what they say was a lie. And he wanted to show her how wonderful school could be.

Sage: Yes... *smiles* I believe you're on the right track! *looks at Sweet Roll Cookie* Sweet Roll Cookie, why not tune into the lecture I'm giving later today? All you have to do is sit and listen, nothing more, nothing less. If you don't like it, feel free to step out and there's no need to participate. Allow us to prove to you that all we saw is true. I don't happen to be in the lying department when it comes to education!

Sweet Roll: *crosses her arms* So long as it's not boring. I really want to believe you but still, it all sounds to good to be true.

Recluse: ... *walks to her* The Sage only lies when he has no choice but to do so, depending on the circumstances. *puts his hand on her shoulder* He and his apprentices tell the truth, as much as I don't like to admit it... If any child would have a fulfilling school life anywhere, it would be here. I've only ever seen someone upset when they get a poor grade or mark on their tests.

Sweet Roll: *gets close to him* I still doubt.

Recluse: (As did I until I saw for myself...) *pats her head*

Truthless Recluse might have a severe aversion to the Sage, but when it came to a child, he put those walls down, especially to one who had suffered. Perhaps he can have a little friend like the Sage had his students...

Recluse: *looks at the Sage* I do agree with what she said though. Do not make it boring.

Sage: Me?! Boring?! Never! Perish the thought! I make sure everything is just as fun and entertaining as it is educational! I have yet to put my brother to sleep so that should say something!

Recluse: Which brother?

Sage: The Herald of Change! I helped him upgrade the education system in the Spice Lands, I'll have you know. I sat in during a class for the children and saw many falling asleep. That was enough for me to see and issue a reform for the system there. I presented the idea to my brother and it was implemented shortly after. Of course, it's not a complete match to how things are done here, but it's remarkably better. And the Herald is the type to fall asleep when sitting idly with nothing to do. He so dreadfully dislikes getting bored, you know.

Sweet Roll: *thinks* Isn't he the big red guy? I know there's a red guy, white lady, pink lady, and... A knight? That's all I got when I skimmed a book one time.

The Fount appeared a bit concerned at the mention of Ayato Fae Cookie being in and out of sleep currently, but he also couldn't say that he was terribly surprised with everything that had happened during the war. He was sure the Guardians of Nature were exhausted with how much power they had expended to aid the Cookie Alliance in their battle.

Still though, that didn't stop him from being concerned about an old friend. While Dark Cacao Cookie wasn't as familiar as the Fount was with Ayato Fae Cookie, he still bowed his head in respect as he listened to Anmitsu Cookie.

Fount: He has my well wishes for his speedy recovery then. I would like to be able to spend some time with everyone at some point now that things are calmer.

DC: Ayato Fae Cookie similarly has my well wishes. He and the other Guardians of Nature provided an immense amount of help and relief to our troops.

CC: Yeah! It gave us a huge advantage! The guy deserves a nice break after that!

Fount: Ayato Fae Cookie has always been extraordinarily talented with magic. I can recall that from when I knew everyone several lifetimes ago.

HC: Not to interrupt the important talk, buuuut... Do you think we could walk and talk? I want to see the bakery before we have to go!

Grapevine: You're just hungry, aren't you.

HC: I know what I said! Pretty please though?

Honey Crisp Cookie clasped her hands together then and tilted her head, making a point out of giving the other Cookies her best look of cake hound puppy eyecings.

~~~~

The Sage was quick to nod in response to Sweet Roll Cookie's questions as he gave a bright smile. Violet Sapphire Cookie and Apple Faerie Cookie nodded along as well, having met the Sage's siblings a few times when they paid a visit to the Blueberry Yogurt Academy to see the professor.

Sage: You're absolutely correct, my dear! In order, that's the Herald of Change, the Flour of Volition, the Bringer of Happiness, and the Salt of Solidarity. Like me, they have common names of their own but most individuals will likely have heard of their titles before their names.

AF: They visit sometimes! They come to see the professor!

Sage: Indeed! We primarily keep in touch via letters due to the fact that we're each busy in our own domains, but we do make sure to make time for one another to catch up. We have dear Salt to thank for that! He ensures that we all stick together and keeps any one of us from drifting too far.

[the-lonely-spire]

Dulce: *smiles* Pleasure to meet all of you properly. While we're on introductions, I'm Dulce Rosalie Cookie, General of the third Phoenix Choir Battalion. Well, I'm just Dulce Rosalie Cookie right now.

HC: You got forced onto vacation?

Dulce: Exactamente. No need to address me as a General. I was saving my vacation days to go out with my husband. He's on his way now, apparently he got the same treatment but he's way harder to make leave.

Fount: Oh? Him too?

Dulce: *nods* I went to the main war, he went elsewhere.

Twirl: *sniffs her*

Dulce: *smiles* *holds out her hand*

Twirl: *puts his paw on her hand*

Dulce: Oh, you know shake?! So cute!!

DT: 😊 Lots of practice!

CW: *barks*

Dulce: *smiles* Makes me want to get a pet once more... *looks at them* I'm guessing you've all seen Ebany Rosette Cookie? How's she doing?

DC: We have and she's doing well. Once the visitation time ended, Anmitsu Cookie and Lightwave Cookie brought us to Ochreshire.

Dulce: Glad to hear it. And you'll love it here! There's plenty to do, see, and eat for Cookies of all kinds. I was enjoying some coffee when you all came, waiting for my husband.

Fount: I hope we didn't interrupt then, will be be long?

Dulce: Nope. He's right behind you.

Condor: *taps his shoulder*

Fount: *looks over* * !! Condor Corn Cookie?! I didn't hear you walk up to me!

Cookies: !!!

No one heard him come up to them! Cream Wolf barked in surprise until Crunchy Chip Cookie calmed him down. Twirl yipped in surprise, his ears perking up. Condor Corn Cookie looked at the rest of them, seeing the Dark Cacaocians, not having met them. He stopped when he made eye contact with Dark Cacao Cookie...

The two stared at each other, almost as though they were looking in a mirror... they had similar builds and faces... if anything, they looked like distant relatives. Dark Truffle Cookie looked up at her father and then Condor Corn Cookie, looking between them, as did the others.

Dulce: *looks at them both* Wow, you two really look alike.

Condor: ! *breaks eye contact* *settles his wings* Lo siento, I'm sorry for staring, señor.

Dulce: Sus majestades, everyone, meet my husband, Condor Corn Cookie, he's a commander in the Phoenix Choir.

Condor: *bows his head* Un placer. A pleasure.

~~~

Sweet Roll: *stares at them in disbelief* You're pulling my leg. You don't do homework?

AF: Nope! Only when we got to. Just like the professor said!

Sweet Roll: How...? Everyone has homework! The only ones who don't get homework are preschoolers... We had homework everyday! I even stayed up until midnight one time because I had a lot and didn't understand it!

AF: What?! Seriously?!

Sweet Roll: *nods* Before I was homeschooled. *frowns* I wish I never got straight As back in second grade... Because of that, I was put with a teacher who taught the difficult stuff and she never taught us multiplication either! My dad had to teach me and it wasn't fun and hard! It got worse from there!

VS: What grade did you leave off?

Sweet Roll: Fifth. I'm going to be in sixth this year. *frown deepens* We had a lot of homework in fifth grade because classes always took longer because no one was understanding a lot of the stuff... Not to mention the book reports we had to do every quarter... Rough draft, backwards copy, a list of books we read every quarter that was part of our reading grade! Teacher tried his best but everyone drove him nuts... Nice, but strict guy, just his patience went kaput. *clenches fist* Even with me... Then the thing happened...

AF: ? What happened?

Sweet Roll: It's nothing. But still! I don't believe that you don't get homework! Maybe not homework for every class but there's homework in other stuff! My old teacher said that it wasn't homework, it was stuff we were finishing at home because we didn't finish it in class... Pfft. I never believed that. *glances at the Sage*

The Sage looked at her with such concern... Just how did her old school worked and what exactly happened that caused her to be homeschooled and just how much work was assigned that it couldn't be finished until so late? Was it difficult for students to understand because it was never properly taught or was it that much?

Recluse: ... Sweet Roll Cookie? What is your homeschooling like?

Sweet Roll: ... Better. I still don't get everything, but my dad teaches me the best he can. I learn other stuff too like actual magic. When he can't teach me, my grandma does and other Elders too. I don't have to worry about being pummeled and beaten to a pulp either...

Sage: Beaten...?

Sweet Roll: (He heard me?!)

Sage: My dear... The reason you're homeschooled now... It's not just because of the schooling system and classroom structure... But you were beaten up?

Sweet Roll: (I really need to shut up! Hmph. Maybe telling them will break this illusion. No way school is this much of a paradise!) ... Yeah. I was. 😒 Enough to be unconscious a few days and in the hospital for a while. Three transfer students didn't like that I was an Elven hybrid. I'm part Cookie, Elf Cookie, and Phoenix. Them guys were pure jam High Elves. Their families had business in the area and their kids went to our school and were in my class. I never interacted with them after seeing how high and mighty they were. They were nothing like my elven cousins! One day, one of them wanted to talk to me and I didn't think much of it so I went with them and ended up ambushed. The teachers found me in time and I woke up in the hospital. My Clan made the bad guys pay compensation and the three dunderheads got expelled. Haven't seen them since. That was the final nail on the coffin as to why I'm homeschooled. Dad was thinking about transferring me until that incident. He decided that homeschool was better and I agree. It's less of a headache with stupid idiots being loud and not listening to the teacher whatsoever. I didn't have close friends so I wasn't upset. Easier to grow distance when you're not put in the same class or have the same lunch period. That's why... All of this you're showing and telling me... It's way too good to be true to believe! I don't know about other schools back home but that's how it was for me!

Crunchy Chip Cookie and Caramel Arrow Cookie couldn't help but be reminded of both Dark Cacao Cookie and the stealthy way that Mocha Drizzle Cookie usually moved while they looked at Condor Corn Cookie. After they recovered from the surprise, they quickly nodded in greeting to the new Cookie.

DC: Well met, commander. I am Dark Cacao Cookie. These individuals here are my guards and the Cookies I trust most with my life.

Dark Cacao Cookie nodded in greeting as well and made a point out of looking at each of the Dark Cacaoians that had accompanied him to the Mythic Lands. Finally, his gaze landed on his daughter and softened slightly with a look of pride.

DC: And this is my daughter Dark Truffle Cookie.

The Fount smiled as he listened to the introductions before he turned to face Condor Corn Cookie as well.

Fount: It's a pleasure to see you again, Condor Corn Cookie. I hope you don't mind us stopping to have a chat with dear Dulce Rosalie Cookie. We're out and about on a tour of Orcheshire and happened to spot her.

~~~~

For several moments after Sweet Roll Cookie finished speaking, no one said anything. Instead, the Sage, Apple Faerie Cookie, and Violet Sapphire Cookie all stared at her with looks that ranged anywhere from shock to moderate horror at the way she had supposedly been treated at her old school.

Even the Recluse, stoic as he usually was, managed to look deeply confused and perhaps a bit concerned as his facial features twisted into a troubled frown in response to the story.

Sage: ...My dear...

The Sage opened his mouth to address what Sweet Roll Cookie had said, but he found himself so stunned and taken aback that it made it a bit difficult for him to find his words. He brought his hand to his mouth instead, taking on a contemplative frown.

VS: ...Cookies don't... do things like that here. There's almost never a fight.

AF: Yeah! The professor has eyecings everywhere so they know better! And there's lots of Cookies here so nobody's different!

The pair of siblings both managed to look deeply concerned about their new friend and perhaps even a bit frightened.

AF: And! And!! I'm good at protecting people from meanies! Nobody gets to hurt my brother! Or my friends!

VS: That old school you came from... I'm sorry but that sounds like a miserable place. I can't blame you for being homeschooled when that's what happened! The Blueberry Yogurt Academy is nothing like that!

[the-lonely-spire]

DT: *takes Dark Cacao Cookie's hand* No battle talk for five minutes, Appa!

HC: See? Her Highness agrees!

DC: So it seems. *looks at Dark Truffle Cookie*

DT: *huffs*

Two Cookies present definitely didn't want to discuss the war. Dark Cacao Cookie could feel his daughter's grip tighten. He had just come back from a war and the last thing she probably wanted to hear was battle planning when there was no fight to fight. He patted her head before looking at the others.

DC: Lead the way.

Anmitsu: With pleasure! *walks around*

Anmitsu Cookie pointed out the various places and what they were. Caramel Arrow Cookie's interest piqued when they passed by boba place. Crunchy Chip Cookie was still on guard despite being told to relax. But his keen senses would still find someone.

CC: *looks around* *sees Dulce Rosalie Cookie* ? Hang on a second... isn't that the general we met during the war?

DC: *looks over and sees her* Is that Dulce Rosalie Cookie?

Anmitsu: Ara? *looks over* Oh! So it is! But why does she look mopey?

CW: *barks*

DT: The general lady you talked about? *looks over* She's Ebany Rosette Cookie's auntie, right?

Lightwave: That's right. *looks over* She does seem down.

Fount: I hope nothing happened... She was quite cheerful this morning when she left with her husband. I'll go see her.

DC: As will I. Dulce Rosalie Cookie's battalion helped immensely and I would like to thank her again.

It was decided to see the general. Dulce Rosalie Cookie was sighing, drinking coffee and sighing again.

Dulce: 😓

Fount: Dulce Rosalie Cookie? Are you alright dear?

Dulce: *looks up* Oh, tío. *sees the others* And everyone else. Glad to see you made it safely, su majestades.

DC: It's a pleasure to see you again, General. Once more, you have my thanks for your aid in the war.

Dulce: It was my pleasure! *smiles* Hehe... I'd be with my battalion now but they all mutinied on me!

CC: What?!

CA: Mutinied?!

Fount: A whole battalion?!

Dulce: You bet! *frowns* I haven't taken a day off in ages and only took yesterday off but you know what I did when I went to work today? I got kicked out and put on vacation leave! Sure, it's paid, but still! Let me decide when it happens! I checked to make sure it was official and fortunately, it is. There was one time where a guy got sent on vacation but was actually secretly fired. He deserved it though. I was a lieutenant back then so I don't remember the details. I love my battalion but once I'm back... I'LL HAPPILY REMIND ALL THEM WHY I'M CALLED THE IRON GENERAL! 😤

Crunchy Chip Cookie felt admiration and awe when he saw the Phoenix Choir on the battlefield, the third battalion led by Dulce Rosalie Cookie herself... But seeing that look of rage actually scared him. Mocha Drizzle Cookie was taken aback, as was Caramel Arrow Cookie... This one was of Ebany Rosette Cookie's great aunts?

Dulce: Anyways... *glances at the group* I don't believe I've met you, you, you, and you. *points and looks at Caramel Arrow Cookie, Mocha Drizzle Cookie, Dark Truffle Cookie, and Twirl*

Twirl: *tail wagging* *yips* :3

DT: :3 I'm Princess Dark Truffle Cookie of the Dark Cacao Kingdom! *curtsies* My puppy is Twirl!

Dulce: (Oh my God, you're so cute!)

DT: ☺️ *understood that*

DC: ?

DT: She said we're cute!

Twirl: *puppy face* :3

~~~

Sweet Roll: *watching* Why was magic never properly taught at my old school...? Oh right, I know why.

AF: Why?

Sweet Roll: Classmates are annoying and ruin things...

AF: Your ex classmates were! Not us! Right?

Sweet Roll: *looks at her and Violet Sapphire Cookie* So far, you're okay.

VS: *smiles brightly* I assure you that we're model students! *glances at his sister* Apple Faerie is a little more on the mischievous side, but never towards her friends.

AF: I get even if dummies bug me or bug my friends!

Sweet Roll: (Maybe these guys aren't so bad... Violet Sapphire Cookie's way different than my old classmates and actually talks to me decently. Apple Faerie Cookie seems alright too.)

The Sage was glad the children were getting along. Compared to him and the Sage, Sweet Roll Cookie warmed up to his apprentices much faster than the Recluse warmed up to him! The lesson concluded shortly after and the tour continued. Sweet Roll Cookie followed the apprentices as she showed her the rest of the classrooms and headed to the club rooms.

AF: We have lots of clubs! Art, drama, chess, cooking, board games, magic, potions, and other stuff!

VS: They're held after classes and run for an hour and a half to two hours. Have any interest in any?

Sweet Roll: *shrugs* Dunno. I was always tired after school so I never bothered finding out if there were clubs. (But with classmates like the ones I remember and the mountain of homework I'd get, who wants to go to a club?)

Sweet Roll Cookie didn't seem the most enthusiastic about school whatsoever. Based on what Apple Faerie Cookie was saying, who could blame her! To her, the teachers weren't teaching right and the system sucked! Violet Sapphire Cookie wondered what they could do to show Sweet Roll Cookie the brighter side of things.

Sweet Roll: Is there a homework club?

VS: *looks up* There's study and tutoring sessions, but not that exactly.

AF: What'd you do there?

Sweet Roll: Do homework at school so it doesn't have to be done at home.

Dark Cacao Cookie raised an eyebrow at that, but he did give a small nod of agreement after a moment. His daughter was his pride and joy, after all.

Caramel Arrow Cookie and Mocha Drizzle Cookie both looked a bit surprised to suddenly be put on the spot, but it didn't take either of them long before they both straightened out into more formal stances. Crunchy Chip Cookie noticed and straightened his back out too to try to look equally official.

CA: My name is Caramel Arrow Cookie, First Watcher of the Dark Cacao Kingdom. I help manage the Dark Cacao Warriors and lead them alongside His Majesty when the castle or our Cookies are in danger.

Mocha Drizzle Cookie hummed quietly as they nodded along. After a moment, one of their eyecings cracked open just enough to look at Dulce Rosalie Cookie as they smiled at her.

MD: And my name is Mocha Drizzle Cookie. I'm but a humble castle servant and a bodyguard for the Dark Cacaoian royal family.

~~~~

The look that Violet Sapphire Cookie and Apple Faerie Cookie shared with one another once again implied that Sweet Roll Cookie had said something they both found strange and unnecessary compared to their own school lives. Even the Sage had quirked an eyebrow as he listened to the explanation about the homework club.

AF: ...Why would you wanna spend your time doing boring old homework when you could be doing something fun? Clubs are supposed to be fun! Not boring!

VS: Did you really have so much homework that you didn't have time to do something else? Was there that much to take home?

The Sage crossed his arms as he listened, allowing both of his wards to finish speaking before he decided to speak up and join the conversation once more.

Sage: I'm not a big believer in homework myself! I believe that young doughs like yourself deserve time to actually experience and enjoy your childhood! Hmph! Our academy does occasionally hand out a few things to study at home or in the dorms for an upcoming test, but I don't intentionally swamp my students with busywork just for the sake of it. I find that Cookies learn and retain the information far better when they're actually enjoying their lessons and not burning themselves out every night.

[the-lonely-spire]

Rose: Perhaps. I don't remember all the details of mine and First Cream Cookie's conversation since it's been a while. But asking her and the others is our best bet.

Fount: Then I'll have to ask when they visit.

Gingerdozer: *tugs his cloak* Fount...?

Fount: *looks over* Oh, yes Gingerdozer?

Gingerdozer: You know Auntie Cream and Auntie Milky??

Fount: ! Did you hear us talking?

Gingerdozer: :3 I hears you say First Cream Cookie. You look like Auntie Milky's plushie too!

The Fount had to remember that Gingerbrave and his friends and family had been to every corner of Earthbread, that included having met his mother and the rest of her coven at come point. Seeing that everyone else was discussing plans, he picked up Gingerdozer and held him.

Fount: *smiles gently* To answer, yes, I know Auntie Cream and Milky. But would you mind keeping it a secret for now? I'm not sure how to tell the others yet.

Gingerdozer: Okay! *snuggles*

Fount: *smiles and snuggles* Such a sweet little boy you are.

Anmitsu: *takes pictures* Kawaii!!

Once there was a plan set, the groups split up. Rose would take those who went to Ochreshire to Flamma and two fifths of the Mythic Crew would take the those who just arrived and went to Flamma to Ochreshire. The cars were filled and the chauffeurs drove to their destinations.

Gingerbrave, his friends, and Hollyberry Cookie went to Flamma with Rose Phoenix Cookie while the Dark Cacaocians and the Fount trio went to Ochreshire with Lightwave Cookie and Anmitsu Cookie. They would all meet at a certain point to go to the Phoenix Family Manor.

Everyone got out upon arriving to Ochreshire. Dark Truffle Cookie had finished her brownie earlier, having given Crunchy Chip Cookie and the others their brownies which were thoroughly enjoyed.

DC: *looking around* So this is Ochreshire Village...

Anmitsu: Hai! The crossroads to the Clans, adventures await, and a shopping center for just about everything. Groceries, clothes, weapons, food, etcetera. And the Nutmeg Apothecary if anyone wants to say hi to Ebany-Chan's family, her dad at least.

DT: Wow...! It looks way different than the plazas of the Crème Republic! I like it better here!

Twirl: *yips* :3

Dulce: *moping at a café* 😓 *muttering*

~~~

Sweet Roll: *looks at the steam* ... (Steam... Boiled water, right? It's hot enough and it turns into a gas so... No more hot anything!) *pulls back all the heat leaving water which drops to the ground* *backs away quickly to not get wet* ... Did that work?

Sage: *smiles* Excellent work! You're figuring it out! *levitates the water back up* *molds it into a water drop*

Sweet Roll: I made what you said literal. No hot, no steam. Just water. *watches the drop*

Sage: You're getting closer and closer to achieving what you wish, my dear! Intent is a big factor in the results of what magic users cast. If one doesn't know what they intend to do, the results vary. Not everything works or something unexpected happens. However, since your intent was to make water, you made it true and here you are!

Sweet Roll: ... Did I really dabble a bit in water magic?

Sage: You broke the surface. Tell me, can anyone else perform water magic in your Clan?

Sweet Roll: Not that I know of. It's mainly fire earth, and light with a touch of wind. If we want to use water magic, we have to say long incantations or use magic scrolls to give a boost. Water also turns off my fire power so... I can't get that wet, depending on the circumstances.

Scrolls and incantations were coming for magic users to use to cast spells. Some spells require them to do so. Silent spell casting is considered one of the highest forms and levels a mage can achieve, but it was a select few like the Sage and Truthless Recluse who could use it unless other learned. Well, that was back in the day. Nowadays, there are more silent spell casters. Sweet Roll Cookie didn't speak when she cast the spell... Verbally.

Even the Fount managed to look a bit awestruck as he looked around at the scenery and the buildings that decorated Ochreshire. Despite the fact that he knew he had been away from the Mythic Lands for a very long time, it still fascinated him just how far the land and its people had come.

Dark Cacao Cookie's reaction was a bit more subtle compared to most of the group, but the way he looked around at the area as well gave off the impression that he was taking in the sights as well. Despite the fact that he was looking around though, he still managed to pay attention to Anmitsu Cookie and what she was saying.

DC: I see... I can see the benefit of having a major settlement in a central location like this. It would be a good place to gather information and exchange stories with passing travelers.

CC: His Majesty is right! Places where a lot of Cookies pass through are always good for intel.

HC: Can't we just enjoy the views without turning it into a battle discussion? I don't want to have to listen to a bunch of tactical nonsense! I wanna sightsee and enjoy the tour!

Grapevine: Honey Crisp Cookie-

HC: What? I'm just saying! Not to be rude or anything but we're on a vacation, not scouting to go to war again!

Fount: Now, now, let's be nice.

DC: ...Hm. It was a fair statement. She does have a fair point, I will admit.

~~~~

The Sage nodded as he listened to Sweet Roll Cookie, taking a moment to calculate his next response as he allowed the water drop to swirl around and do tricks where it floated above his hand.

Sage: Scrolls and incantations do have their uses! Scrolls especially are good training tools for beginnings because anyone can use them with a bit of magic and a little intent. Incantations take more work and memorizing but can do more.

He smiled at the young Phoenix Cookie as he made the water droplet swirl around in circles like a miniature whirlpool.

Sage: With enough practice though, one can create something from nothing. You created water just now by reversing your flame spell to remove the heat from the steam. A lot of magic can be learned and created by taking existing spells or incantations and tweaking their effects just like that.

[the-lonely-spire]

Anmitsu: *smirks* 😉 We're already way ahead of you, buddy!

Lightwave: Anmitsu Cookie, the rest of our crew, and myself have been coordinating with the others to see which days work best. We've been waiting mainly for White Lily Cookie's condition to improve so she and Pure Vanilla Cookie can visit. Whether they decide to bring the Ultimate Cookie, I'm not sure.

Gingerbrave: *looks at her*

Lightwave: As for Golden Cheese Cookie... we've mainly been speaking with Rich Cheese Cookie. Golden Cheese Cookie has been rather busy trying to work with that box White Lily Cookie had given to her. If weren't for Rich Cheese Cookie and the cheese birds, I think Golden Cheese Cookie would forget to eat and sleep.

Hollyberry: What?! No, no. That won't do! We need to get her especially to come! Pure Vanilla Cookie has White Lily Cookie to make sure he eats and Golden Cheese Cookie has Rich Cheese Cookie, and they have everyone else... But there's no way I'm letting either of them go hungry! Anmitsu Cookie, Lightwave Cookie, how are the arrangements coming?

Anmitsu: *puts her arms behind her back* With any luck, we'll see Pure Vanilla Cookie maybe in the next day or two. Just need the okay with him. And Rich Cheese Cookie is planning a mutiny.

Wizard: A mutiny??

Anmitsu: Yep! She and the cheese birds are going to force Her Radiance to take a day off.

While they spoke of how and when to get the other Ancient Heroes to the Mythic Lands, Rose Phoenix Cookie couldn't help but think about the Soul Jam of Hope that was once simply the Crimson Stone.

Fount: *notices* Rose?

Rose: Hm? *looks at him*

Fount: What's on your mind?

Rose: Thinking about the Crimson Stone and why it's so different from the other Soul Jams, whole and halved. It never woke up properly to begin with and the way it was used... perhaps that had something to do with its evolution. When it was my time as Wielder to end, it gave me a hint as to who would be the next one... And I heard it speak but it didn't hear me. Since then, I never heard it at all.

Fount: Right... after a certain number of years, it would choose someone else, cutting off it's connection with its previous Wielder... Until it got to Ebany Rosette Cookie who confirmed that it won't be going anywhere. Judging by how it had been utilized over the centuries by your Clan and its own origins... I can see how and why it's so different... But just how much?

~~~

Sweet Roll Cookie watched as the Sage taught the lesson. The visual effects definitely helped her but she still wondered if she was capable of at least wielding other elements or if it was simply impossible. Envisioning it would be difficult for her too. She was seeing the Sage himself do it but could she actually manage it?

AF: So cool!! 🤩

Sweet Roll: ...

VS: *takes notes*

Sage: Now then, Sweet Roll Cookie, would you like to give it a go?

Sweet Roll: Don't be surprised if this backfires or fails. *walks to him*

For a split second, the Sage he thought he was talking to a miniature Truthless Recluse. He didn't let it get to help and taught Sweet Roll Cookie what to do. He had her make a simple fireball and then guided her to turn it into different element. Light was easy, but turning it to water...

Sweet Roll: 😖 *makes steam instead* 😮‍💨

Truthless Recluse watched the spell in action. He sincerely hoped that Sweet Roll Cookie would succeed. He remembered the trick she cast before they made their way to the academy. Truthless could see the cogs turning in her head, trying to envision it... But she couldn't get it just yet.

Sweet Roll: Figured as much. Failed again. No water in sight, just the usual steam.

Failed? No. The Sage begged to differ.

The Fount allowed those thoughts to turn over in his head again as his thoughtful frown returned. Even all of these years later, he still felt like he didn't understand exactly how the Crimson Stone worked and felt even more baffled by it now that it had transformed into a proper Soul Jam.

It was equal parts fascinating and slightly frustrating to someone who knew so many things about Earthbread. Encountering something he didn't know always did have a way of driving him up a wall and fueling his thirst for knowledge at the same time.

His eyecings trailed to the side to glance at his Soul Jam staff for a moment before he looked at Rose Phoenix Cookie again.

Fount: ...Do you think my mother or First Cream Cookie would have any idea what might be happening with the Crimson Stone or why it behaves in such a way?

~~~~

Sage: Ah, ah! On the contrary, you've created the stepping stone you need to reach your goal. The thing about magic is that the rules are more flexible than you think. Giving up so quickly is exactly what stops us right before we make incredible discoveries.

The Sage drew some of the steam into his hands using his own magic, though he left some of it hanging in the air for Sweet Roll Cookie as well. He gave her an encouraging smile as he willed the steam he had taken to swirl around his hand and then turn into a miniature cloud.

A miniature rain cloud, even.

Sage: Think outside the box, my dear... What is steam made of? What can it become if it's reversed from a gas back into a liquid? What happens if you remove the fire element and heat from the steam? I suspect you may already know a thing or two about alchemy and transmutation as an apothecary's daughter.

The Sage's eyecings took on a sparkle of glee then. His tone sounded just as patient as it had when he first started the lesson.

Sage: Give it another go. Take a deep breath and think about your intentions. Take your time if you need to.

[the-lonely-spire]

Ebany: Only one way to find out. I have no idea who's to come next if my friends are organizing everything and they won't tell me who. That's why I was surprised each time to see everyone.

Hollyberry: I'll be sure to let the rest of your crew know! You'll be walking out of here in no time at all!

Ebany: I hope so. I miss walking on my own two feet. Not to mention doing the basic stuff. Before you go... *takes out her brownie box* I have a lot so feel free to take a lot for the kids.

Hollyberry: Oh? Brownies? *picks one up* Are these the famous ones your grandmother makes? Not Rose Phoenix Cookie, a different one.

Ebany: *nods* Grandma Rosie Cream Cookie.

Hollyberry: *tries one* !!! Mmmm! So good! It's soft, just the right amount of chocolate and fudgey inside! And so many too!

Ebany: Grandma exaggerates on the amount. I love brownies but when I have this many... I need help eating them. I already gave some to the Dark Cacaocians.

Hollyberry: *eating happily* Say no more! Let's see... I'm eating mine, five for the kids, one for Rose Phoenix Cookie, and... Three for the Fount and his kids.

Ebany: *reaches for her backpack* *opens it and reaches in* Ah! *holds out a plastic bag* *puts the amount of brownies in* Here. You can use that bag for recycling afterwards.

Hollyberry: *takes it* Thank you~! *looks at the bag* Just how much is in here?

Ebany: A lot of stuff. It helps when I can't open my regular magic stash.

Hollyberry: Look at you always prepared! *hugs her* Get better soon, little bird. We'll visit you again. Oh! Do you have CookieChat?

Ebany: *takes out her open and opens the app* *clicks add contact* *holds it out to her*

Hollyberry: Ah! *types in what's needed* Like that?

Ebany: Looks right. *saves it and sends a message*

Hollyberry: *phone pings* *checks* Ah! Got it! There! If you want, I can share your contact information with the others.

Ebany: *nods* please do. Oh! *clicks a few things and sends her a link* Click that.

Hollyberry: ? *clicks it* A bar? *looks at her*

Ebany: Family restaurant with a bar, which requires valid ID to drink the heavy juice. I don't drink, but it's my favorite place that serves the best chicken jelly burgers! It's a bit hidden away but my friends know where it is.

Hollyberry: This will save time in choosing where to eat! Thank you, Ebany! *hugs her again*

Ebany: *hugs back* ☺️

They hugged once more before parting ways. Hollyberry Cookie returned to the others and passed around the brownies. She also gave Gingerbright and Strawberry Cookie the contact information and they sent friend requests to Ebany Rosette Cookie which were accepted quickly.

The kids all loved that they got brownies. And it was the best kind of brownies! The Fount got excited too since it brought back nostalgic memories. With the visit over, it was time to continue onwards. Hollyberry remembered though and explained to everyone what happened. Dark Cacao Cookie listened to her, hearing what happened with the Soul Jams...

~~~

Sage: Such a splendid idea! Those are always quite fun and educational!

Sweet: What about?

Sage: Anything you'd like! Perhaps there's a spell you wish to learn? The history of a certain event in magical history?

Sweet Roll: *thinks* Think I'm able to learn a water spell? I can't do water or air magic like at all. It fights my fire element so I gave up.

Sage: Ah, elemental magic! *summons a book* It is said that Cookies born into certain elements struggle learning others, but with the proper guidance and teachings, they can be taught and learn to wield the opposite! Tell me, my dear. Are there any other elements you wish to dabble in?

Sweet Roll: I can do some earth magic thanks to my elf quarter.

Sage: *nods* I believe I have just the right lesson for this! But let us go to the more appropriate setting! *leads them to a classroom*

The Sage led the group to a classroom, one he usually taught in and ushered the children to stand in front of him. Sweet Roll Cookie wondered if it was all he cracked it up to be. For years, she had never been able to perform a master a different element other than the ones she was born with.

Phoenix Cookies weren't known to perform other elemental magic other than fire or even wind magic since they use air to take flight and to power their flames. Sweet Roll Cookie's father hadn't taught her any spells yet either in regards to different elements.

Sweet Roll Cookie looked at Violet Sapphire Cookie and Apple Faerie Cookie who looked very excited for the magic lesson. With how eccentric the Sage is, maybe this magic lesson will be fun after all. She crossed her arms and looked at the Sage, wondering what he'll do. Truthless Recluse also watched, hoping there wouldn't be volunteers from the audience.

Dark Cacao Cookie was quiet for a few moments after Hollyberry Cookie finished with her explanation, which gave him time to consider everything that she said and what she had learned about the Soul Jams. After a moment, he finally gave a slow nod of agreement.

DC: It would seem her condition is at least partially tied to the Crimson Stone's connections to the other Soul Jams. I believe it is somewhat urgent we put an effort towards gathering Golden Cheese Cookie, Pure Vanilla Cookie, and White Lily Cookie here in that case.

He turned his attention to the Fount then, prompting the Virtue to blink and straighten out his posture as he prepared for what was likely going to be an incoming question.

DC: Have you seen anything like this before, Lord Fount? I would assume that you are the most knowledgeable about the Soul Jams and their connections than any Cookie among us.

Fount: Well...

The Fount frowned slightly at the question and raised a hand to his chin.

Fount: It is true that the Soul Jams all have a connection to one another. They did back then even when they were whole and I can assume they still do now. Soul Jam calls to Soul Jam. The only thing that makes it tricky and pushes it into unfamiliar territory even for me is the fact that the Crimson Stone or rather the Soul Jam of Hope behaves nothing like my own or my siblings' Soul Jams once did. It is something I would have to study to truly understand and form an opinion on.

The Fount's frown turned contemplative then as he casually leaned against his staff.

Fount: I do agree with you both in your assumption that the others need to gather here. If there's anything that is going to draw the Light of Hope out of dormancy again, I believe the key is with the Soul Jams.

GingerBrave: That means we have to invite everybody else to come visit! Right? Riiight?

~~~~

As soon as the audience was settled and the Sage was on stage before everyone, something changed in his demeanor. While he still seemed very cheerful and even theatrical as he summoned his golden staff to his side once more, there was also something more focused and professional behind his eyecings and in his tone of voice.

Sage: Now! As you already know, elemental magic draws its power from the natural forces of the earthbread around us. We brush up against the power of nature every time we feel the breeze on our doughs or feel the heat of an open campfire. The fact that these elements are everywhere in our lives makes these energies plentiful and easy to harness if one knows where to look.

The Sage waved his staff in the air above him then, which created a shimmering aurora of magic that quickly condensed and took the shape of flames, water droplets, leaves, and other symbols of nature. He looked around the audience to make sure that everyone was still watching before he reached out to snatch one of the flames from the air.

Sage: Fire exists all around us whether it takes the form of a lit torch or an open flame for grilling your favorite meat jellies. Because fire exists everywhere, it often collides with other elements. You've experienced this for yourself if you've ever used wind magic to either fan the flames or to take the oxygen out of the fire.

The Sage blew on the flame in his hand then, causing it to disappear in the form of a faint twinkling orange light. He gathered the loose magic once more before turning it into the shape of a cube of dirt.

Sage: Much like how one can find wind in fire... One can find water in earth as well. Think of how much of Earthbread's drinkable sugar water comes from wellsprings below the earthbread. That means that if one knows the right way to do it, they can learn to create and control water by converting their earth magic! Fire is a bit trickier but the key is latching onto how it interacts with fire. Water becomes steam when faced with extreme heat, yes? That steam can condense again back into a liquid with a little spark of magic.