Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

After being defeated by Pure Vanilla cookie, Shadow Milk was trying to rebuild the spire. He was greatly hurt by these gnats and Him, so his abilities were limited. Of course his minions were worried about their master, helping him in any way they could and trying to offer help with his wounds, but of course Shadow Milk refused, he was even more harsh and annoyed than before. Both of the cookies understood he must be overwhelmed by the whole incident.

“You think things will be as they were before?” - Candy Apple asked her companion as she was picking up some decorations that were messed up by The fight.

Black Sapphire was busy tidying up but when he heard Candy speak he immediately look towards her. “ Ah, I sure Master will get over this and everything will be back to normal.” He let out a small sigh, not knowing himself if he believed his words. He has never seen Shadow Milk act so distressed before, almost like he lost his mind.

“I hate that.. these truthful cookies! They always destroy our fun and they’ve hurt Master Shadow Milk!” - Candy apple squeezed the small ceramic figure of shadow milk as she spoke with disgust and anger, almost breaking the thing in her hands. Black Sapphire didn't respond; he just gave her a small look and continued to recover all that was left.

Shadow Milk was in his newly rebuilt room, floating in circles. He was furious, pulling on his hair, hard enough to hurt but not hard enough to pull it out. It was merely a few days after he fought with Pure Vanilla and lost. How could he lose? He,The Beast Of Deceit, defeated by some cheap copy of him.

He noticed a mirror he must have placed before next to his bed, Shadow Milk didn't sleep for eons. He was a beast after all, and sleeping was for these kind and loving fragile cookies, not for him. So the bed was only a decoration. Shadow Milk picked up the mirror and looked at himself, oh how pathetic he looked. He tried to keep his temper under control around his minions, but he couldn’t help but snap. He didn't feel like himself for the last few days. The beast was slowly crushing the mirror looking at himself, he suddenly threw the object and watched it break into hundreds of small and sharp glass pieces.

He wheezed as his heart beat got faster. He hated that son of a bitch, that gnat acts so pure, but there was nothing pure about him. He dared to betray him. Liar. Traitor. He gave him everything, and yet that asshole didn't want him nor his deceit. Shadow milk felt pure hatred within his veins, but there was another thing that lingered in him. A different soft of pain pulsating in his soul jam every time he thought of Pure Vanilla, something he hasn’t felt for a long time. Guild. Longing. The beast stopped moving and breathing for a second, trying to understand what he just realized. Him? feeling these things? No no no, it must have been something that traitor did to him, some sort of spell? He will pay for that for sure.

How dare that Gnat make him look so pathetic, fragile and after defeating him offer him friendship! So delusional of him to think that Shadow Milk would accept his offer. If he wasn't wounded then he would strangle him to death with his own hand. Even though that thought should have been pleasing it felt so against himself to think that, like he cared for that cookie. Shadow milk hit himself in the still healing small wounds around his chest so it would hurt more. He couldn't stand the thought of him thinking like that. Caring for anyone, he didn't care. He never cared. The beast opened a portal, surprised it was still a bit tiring, he still hasn't healed though he is recovering faster than other cookies. The portal was leading to a simple void where he could truthly be alone with himself. He flew into it and after a few seconds the portal disappeared without a trace.

Meanwhile Pure Vanilla after leaving the Spire of deceit decided to stay for a while in the Fairy Kingdom. He felt like he left unfinished business with Shadow Milk and he wanted to spend time with his best friend White Lily. Firstly she was worried for him and surprised by his new look, but after some explaining they were on the same page. White Lily gave Pure Vanilla a room where he could stay, she of course gave rooms to Ginger Brave and his friends too.

Pure Vanilla talked to White Lily that he wanted to stay in The Fairy Kingdom for a while to spend time with her, not trying to burden her with his thoughts about Shadow Milk, he also wrote lists to the other ancients to inform them he won’t be in the Vanilla Kingdom for some time and to Black Raisin to inform her as well and to take care of his stuff, of course he apologized and promised to do something for her in return after he comes back.

It was at least a few days after he fought with Shadow Milk, now he was safe with all his friends around him but yet he did not feel content, he felt. Lost? like he lost a part of him, he felt that after leaving The Spire, like he missed Shadow Milk. The Beast showed nothing but exactly why he is named a Beast, but he saw something in him that no other cookie saw. Someone lonely, seeing how happy Shadow Milk was seeing Pure Vanilla fall into deceit only made him feel pity and worry for him.

Pure Vanilla tried to befriend him, but he declined his offer. And he had every right to. Ever since he left the spire he also felt this pain in his soul jam, a tight pull towards the direction of The Spire. Like it wanted to tell him something, to go back there, help Shadow Milk. But that idea was distant for now, he needed to make sure his friends got their lists. Pure Vanilla stood up and put his pen in a holder. He was ready to put the lists into envelopes but three soft knocks took his attention. Pure Vanilla left everything on the table and walked towards the door, gently pulling them open to see White Lily with a plate of jellies.

“Lily, what brings you here?” - The blond cookie smiled softly and let the other walk inside, closing the door after she walked in.

“Checking up on you, how are you doing ,and I wanted to bring you something to eat, it’s getting late and you haven’t eaten anything since today's morning” - White Lily placed the plate on the table, noticing the lists to their friends.

Pure Vanilla looked outside the window to in fact see it was getting dark, seeing the end of a sunset that was revealing stars in the dark sky. He looked back at White Lily examining the lists he wrote.

“I can send them if you want?” - She looked towards her friend and gave him a smile

“No need, I can do that myself, though thank you for offering help” - He gestures at the bed - “Want to sit down?” - White Lily just nodded and sat down on Pure Vanilla's bed, soon the other joined her. They sat in silence for a while just enjoying each other's company. White Lily was the one to break the silence.

“How are you doing, anything still hurting you?” - White Lily asked, her tone slightly worried.

“Oh, no I feel great. Thank you for asking and you?” - Pure Vanilla felt filthy lying to his friend. He was the ancient of Truth afterall, but he didn't want to burden his friend with his worries towards Shadow Milk. Pure Vanilla gulped down and waited for White Lily to answer.
“ I am feeling quite alright too, I’m happy to have you and the other here, but of course you can leave whenever you want, and if anything you can tell me if something is bothering you” - Pure Vanilla looked at his friend, did she notice he was worrying about something? Was he really that bad at hiding stuff? The blonde hoped it was just an offer of help and that she wasn’t implying anything.

The two had a small conversation, and soon White Lily left Pure Vanilla's room. He went back to packing his lists, he wanted them to look presentable so he decorated the envelopes with some stuff he found in the drawer. Once he was done it was already night, everyone was probably sleeping so he decided to send the letters tomorrow. Pure Vanilla went to his bathroom and took a quick bath, getting himself nice and clean, put on his sleeping clothes and went back to the bedroom. He noticed the plate of jellies on his table, he looked at them for a few seconds. He still felt disgusted when it came to thinking of himself eating, besides he already brushed his teeth so he will try to eat them tomorrow. Pure Vanilla got himself comfortable in his bed, the cold sheets gently wrapping around his body felt nice. He soon drifted away into sleep, still feeling this uneasy pain in his soul jam.

Pure Vanilla woke up tired, the pain in his soul jam was not letting him sleep. He swore he woke up a hundred times at night trying to get comfortable and used to the pain. Well, he had things to do so he needed to wake up. Slowly getting up, The ancient got to the bathroom to change into his daily clothes. When he was done he walked to the table he left the letters on and took them all in a firm grip.
Pure Vanilla walked through the corridors, smiling at the passing fairies. He was looking around the beautiful place, until he noticed Wizard cookie walking towards the library. He walked a bit faster and greeted his friend.

“Hello Wizard cookie, how are you feeling today?” -His voice was tired but he tried to hide as much as he could, he still felt pain in his soul jam. It got worse overtime, he should do something with it later. Now he needed to send the lists.

“Oh, Hello Pure Vanilla. I am doing Alright, was going to read something, you? Are these letters?” - Wizard cookie pointed at the four envelopes The ancient was holding-

“Yes, yes I was planning to write to the other ancient and my friend that I will be staying here, so they wont worry” - Pure Vanilla gently smiled to the other.

“Okay. Oh, I was talking with the others, and we were planning on going back to Crispia if you didn't mind?" -The smaller cookie said a bit nervous-

“Of course, you can leave whenever you want. I can't keep you with me forever. Everyone has their own paths. Do you want me to reserve a flight for you?” -Pure Vanilla responded softly.

“I think I can do that, besides you have letters to send so I won’t bother you anymore” - Wizard cookie again pointed at the letters Pure Vanilla was holding.

“Alright then, see you later, and talking to you isn't a bother at all.” - Both cookies said goodbye and went their way. Pure Vanilla was heading to the post office (Idk they use birds or smt).

The Post Office wasn’t far from where he was staying so it was a quite short walk. He gave the Fairy cookie the letters and payment, thanking them and leaving. Once he left the Post Office he felt sharp pain in his soul jam that made him grip it, thankfully no one around noticed. He swiftly corrected his composure, walking through the garden. He must do something with this, he can’t be living like that forever. Pure Vanilla can’t ask White Lily for pain pills because that would make her worry and that is the last thing he wants. She doesn't need to know he has been feeling pain in his soul jam since he left The Spire. He was wondering if it has to do with Shadow Milk, he did have the other half of his soul jam. Maybe he needs to talk to him about it? Though he wasn't sure if The Beast would even talk to him without breaking a single bone of his, but he has faith that there is a chance that Shadow Milk would talk to him. He looked so broken, he needs to help him and get answers for himself. But how could he go now to The Spire without worrying anyone? He wasn't sure if it was even a good idea.

Pure Vanilla noticed White Lily talking with Silver bell cookie, he was hesitating to talk to her about it or not. She would notice that he had left and it would be mean to leave without noticing anyone. Well he was too late since White Lily noticed him too, she was saying probably goodbye to Silver Bell and walking towards him, he panicked but didn't move, just stared at her, thinking of an excuse.

“Greetings Pure Vanilla, good to see you here. How are you doing?” -At first White Lily looked at Pure Vanilla happily but then noticed that he looked a bit tired- “Did you sleep well?”

Pure Vanilla quietly laughed nervously “Don’t worry Lily I’m .. I’m alright, I just didn’t have a great sleep. Maybe it's the change of a place” - Again, another lie. How long can he do this? Will White Lily notice he is lying? He’s been here for a few days and he slept well, but tonight was fruitless because the pain in his soul jam got worse.

White Lily just sighed and put her arm on Pure Vanilla's shoulder “Oh Pure Vanilla I can see something is bothering you, I won’t make you answer me but remember I am always here for you” - She gave him a worried smile, Pure Vanilla just nodded thankfully. Before he could say anything White Lily spoke first. “Have you eaten the jellies I brought you yesterday?”

“I- no I am sorry I must have forgotten I will eat them once I will be back in my room” - He smiled softly again trying to seem as good as he could.

“Well, alright. But please eat them, I know you have problems with eating but remember it gives you strength” - She gave Pure Vanilla a soft tug and let him go. “I am sorry I can’t talk right now, I have to talk with Silver Bell about some things. I will come to you whenever I’ll have free time.”

“It's okay Lily, don’t worry. Take your time, and thank you for being here.”

“No problem, that's what friends are for” - She was looking back to find Silver Bell in her surroundings. “I have to go, see you Vanilla” - She went off to the silver fairy, leaving Pure Vanilla alone again.

He was walking to his room when another sharp pain in his soul jam hit him. He has to talk to Shadow Milk, the pain doesn't go away and it may only get worse. He walked faster to his room so he wouldn't meet any other cookies. He really wasn't in the form and mood to talk to anyone. Once he was finally at his room, he closed the door and sighed looking at the window. It was evening. He spent some time in the garden after talking to White Lily hoping some fresh air will help his current state but of course it didn’t. He should go to The Spire as fast as possible or else the pain may get even worse. Besides he wanted to talk to Shadow Milk, he would lie to himself if he didn’t say he feels longing for him. Which weirdly concerned him a bit. He will write a letter to White Lily explaining everything and then go off at night. He already went to his table, picked up a piece of paper and a pen and started to write the letter.

‘To White Lily

Hello My dear, you may have noticed I am not around. Please do not worry. I have ventured back to The Spire, I have a few Things I need to talk and discuss with Shadow Milk. As concerning as this may seem please dont go after me or alert the other, If anything I have grown strong enough to defend myself. I hope it won't take long and that we’ll meet again soon. Stay safe.

Sincerely Pure Vanilla’

It was at least the 10th letter version he wrote, it wasn't the best but he didn’t have any idea how to explain his situation. He only hoped White Lily would understand. He looked at the plate of jellies White Lily left for him, he hesitated and took a few. Eating them quite fast, hoping that the whole thing will make him forget about his worries with eating. Besides, he didn't want to disappoint White Lily even more. He needed to pack some things. If Shadow Milk accepted his offer he would need some things and if he didn’t he needed stuff to, you know, survive. He quickly packed some stuff like clothes etc:.
When he was done Pure Vanilla looked out the window to see that it was getting dark so he should leave soon. He tidied the room a bit and placed the letter on the table, where White Lily would easily see it when she walks in.
After a few minutes he was ready to go out, he wasn't sure if walking in the hallway would be too suspicious at such an hour with a bag, he could go that way or the window which would be more suspicious if anyone saw him but at least there was less chance he would meet anyone. He lied so many times lately, he would prefer to go down the window.

Pure Vanilla opened the window and went down the vines that were on the building's wall, he now noticed he wasn't as young as before,his body getting a bit rusty, but thankfully he went down safely. He quickly found the direction of The Spire, since he felt a small tug in the soul jam as before. He tried to be as quiet as possible.
Once he was quite far from the Fairy Kingdom he realized he should have taken a quick nap before venturing out, the sleepiness was hitting him, but he wanted to get to The Spire as soon as possible so he didn’t stop.
Hopefully he will be there before dawn.

Chapter Text

Since The Spire was fully rebuilt now, Shadow Milk could go back to his normal duties but he was different after Pure Vanilla left him. The Beast of Deceit was sometimes unrecognizable, though trying to keep his act. He was also more absent, spending more time in his room. Candy Apple would come from time to time to ask her Master if there is anything she can do for him, only to be driven out or be told to do mundane things or even turned into cards as punishment for letting these gants loose free to help Pure Vanilla. He still hasn't forgotten about that.

Shadow Milk was trying to distract himself by torturing a young fairy cookie from the pain he was feeling in his soul jam, pulsating consistent ache. Even though for some time it was getting better, it was still annoying him to the brim. He also tried to make revenge plans on Pure Vanilla, but every time guilt rushed over him when he imagined hurting that damn old man, which made things even worse than they were before.

Shadow Milk was making some cardboard dolls of the cookies he knew, drawing the sketch, cutting out the shape and giving it a little color. To be honest it wasn't the best, he has already done that many times in his long life time, at least he has finally healed, having his true strength and powers back at their full limit, at least he felt like himself physically, but he couldn’t recognize himself inside, that pure little bitch have done something to him.

He was gently cutting out the cardboard around Black Sapphire's cutout when he felt a strong tug in his soul jam, he instinctively tensed his muscles cutting the cutouts head off. Shadow Milk put the supplies down and touched his soul jam, he realized the pain was almost gone, now feeling a way too familiar sensation in his chest. Like The Soul Jam felt something.

The Beast was quite intrigued by the sudden event, the familiar feeling was making him feel uneasy yet it felt warm and comfortable. Shadow Milk quickly realized what was that, or rather more who was that.Shadow Milk now was doubting himself, if it really was Pure Vanilla. I mean why would he come back. Did Pure Vanilla want to finish him off, as if he would let that happen. He needed to check it himself if he really came back, now anger and curiosity building in him and again the annoying longing.

Shadow Milk made a few portals around his Spire, if the tug he felt was so strong, that must have meant he should be somewhere near. He checked The Spires Gate first of course but he still didn’t see Pure Vanilla. It didn’t take long before he found Pure Vanilla walking towards The Spire, his coat was light it was so easy to find him in the dark color palette of the forest. He did not even try to hide himself in any way. Shadow Milk didn’t notice gingerbrave or the other so that means there will be nothing in his way this time.

Shadow Milk smiled, he looked so petite that The Beats could just squish him with his fingers. His curiosity let him to many scenarios of what could happen, he could again try to slowly torture him, wouldn’t that be lovely? But first of all he needed that truthful ass to take off whatever he put on him.

He felt so many mixed emotions, he wanted Pure Vanilla gone, to never see him again but he wanted to keep him all to himself. No one else except himself will tell him what he feels without paying for it. Shadow Milk plastered a wider smile on his face and went through the portal leading to where Pure Vanilla was.

Pure Vanilla was tired from walking, especially since he didn't even rest before going out. Though that would be a little weird if he slept in the day, his friends would for sure notice. Now thinking about his friends, it was getting light. White Lily probably already woke up, he wondered how she would react to his message, hoping she’ll understand his decisions.

He didn’t realize before how cold it was here, Pure Vanilla shivered every time the wind blew. His current coat wasn’t so thick, since he lived in the Vanilla Kingdom and it's quite hot there on a sunny day. Now when he recalls the clothing Shadow Milk gave him when he stayed in The Spire before, the material was warmer. Now to think about it, he could have given Pure Vanilla thinner clothes to mabye torture him. But he didn’t, which showed that Shadow Milk cared about his well being, in some way.

The Ancient realized that the pain he had been feeling was disappearing when he was getting closer to The Spire, now difficult to even notice any. Which has been a relief, it was unstandable. though the fatigue he was feeling did not go away. He made a few short breaks on his way here to have energy if Shadow Milk decided to attack him.

Pure Vanilla was now starring at The Spire of Deceit gates, wondering if The Beast had already noticed him. He stood there for a few minutes until he noticed eyes staring at him from shadows, it was quite unsettling. At least that means that Shadow Milk knows he’s here. Now on his guard Pure Vanilla, waited patiently. He started to think that Shadow Milk would just ignore him, until he heard a laugh from behind his back. Pure Vanilla swiftly turned back now facing The Beast.

“Oh, My! Vanilly what are you doing here? Came to finish me off? Just so you know I won’t go down so easily this time!” - Shadow Milk laughed and started to circle Pure Vanilla, getting a better look at him.

“No.. I came here to talk, not to fight” - The Ancient kept a firm grip on his staff ready to defend himself if the other decided to attack.

“How Boring, how about you give me MY soul jam back if you’re already here?” - Shadow Milk now towering over Pure Vanilla, a few inches away from the other's face, Pure Vanilla stepped back, setting a fair distance between the two cookies.

“Shadow milk. It’s my soul jam, I am not giving it to you. I came here in peace, I want to understand you and there are a few matters I think we need to discuss” - Pure Vanilla exclaimed.

“Understand me? Hah!” - Shadow Milk started to laugh maniacly, clearly not taking Pure Vanillas words seriously - “I would like to see you try, but sorry the option is unavailable” - he pointed his staff at the other though he didn’t shoot.

Pure Vanilla sighed - “Then let me at least stay here, for some time” - The Ancient hoped that if they spent more time maybe they could try to know each other more, he somehow trusted that Shadow Milk isn't as bad as he seems. They do share the same soul jam, he can feel his emotions, his loneliness.

“Stay here? And why is that Silly Vanilly, wanna go back to deceit? You should have started with that!” - Shadow Milk knew it wasn't the reason but he couldn’t resist teasing.

“No. I know who I am and what virtues I am going by.” - Pure Vanilla looked at Shadow Milk eyes, knowing he wont falter this time.

“Hmmmm….” - Shadow Milk thought for a moment, he didn’t think it was such a bad idea. He could try to snatch the soul jam from Pure Vanilla, which is better than simply him leaving or doing another repeating fight. This would be way much more interesting. - “Alright then! You can stay here” - Shadow milk clapped his hands.

-Pure Vanilla raised his eye brow, he was quite surprised Shadow Milk let him stay without setting any rules, but he didn’t try to question it-

Shadow Milk cookie gave Pure Vanilla the same room he had before as Truthless Recluse.
The walk to the room was silent except a few laughs from Shadow Milk cookie when he saw Pure Vanilla trip over the chaotic unfolding of The Spire.They exchanged a few glances from time to time. Once they finally were at Pure Vanillas' now current room, Shadow Milk was the one to open the door. Letting Pure Vanilla step in. Even though he is a Beast he has some manners.

When Pure Vanilla went in, memories flooded his mind, they weren't quite the nicest moments he would like to remember. But he wanted to give Shadow Milk another chance, time to get to know him better. The Ancient went to the bed and touched the silk covers, which were as expected cold. He stood there for a second, getting lost in thought until Shadow Milk called out his name.

The Beast flew closer to Pure Vanilla, the other jolted a bit at the sudden closeness.- “Vanilly, don’t snooze out on me like that.” - Shadow Milk had the plushie that represented himself in his hands.

“Oh, I am sorry.” - Pure Vanilla smiled apologetically, now back on his guard. He trusted that Shadow Milk could change but he had to be careful. Pure Vanilla noticed the plushie that the other was holding, he noticed it before as Truthless Recules, but then he didn’t care about it. - “Is there something wrong with it?”

“No” - Now the plushie was on the night stand, closer to the bed. - “So it can keep you company, while I am not around”

“Isin’t it the same, only on th-”

“Shh, it’s a little bit of a change! Don’t you think now it's better?” - Shadow Milk pointed at the quite small yet still noticeable change in the room-
“I- I guess so?” - Pure Vanilla didn’t really see much of a difference, but as long as it didn’t hurt any of his friends it was alright.

Shadow Milk looked for a second at the plushie, then looked back at Pure Vanilla.- “Feel at home or something” - Shadow Milk was heading to the door , when Pure Vanilla stopped him.

“Would you like to talk later? I am open to spending time together” - Pure Vanilla softly smiled-

Shadow Milk turned around, narrowed his eyes and melted into the shadow without saying a word. Leaving Pure Vanilla without an answer.

Pure Vanilla, sat on the bed. If anything he can find him later, somehow. The Spire is quite a tricky and chaotic place, finding someone in here must be quite hard, though he remembers some of the ways around. Now it would be better if he settled in and took some rest, but firstly he needed to wash himself. The Ancient kept a bag with some clothes, it was hanging on his arm ,but the coat was so long it was impossible to see it. He went to the wardrobe and put all the clothes in their places, taking only something to change to sleep.

He went to the bathroom, putting the things he brought with himself on a cabinet. He looked around to see if there were any eyes looking at him. He valued his privacy, fortunately there was none. He sighed and took off his clothes one by one. He took off his soul jam, but placed it closer to him.

After he took the bath and got into his sleeping clothes, he felt way more relaxed and less filthy. The warm water helped him relax his muscles. Now sitting on his bed, Pure Vanilla gently touched his soul jam and laid down. Looking at the ceiling, he thought about his dear friends, he should send a list to White Lily that everything is alright and that she should not worry. Then he reminded himself that Ginger Brave and the others would leave today and he isn't there to say goodbye. Pure Vanilla hopes that they would forgive him, he should do something for them once his back.

The blond turned on his side looking at the Shadow Milk plushie, he went under the covers feeling the cold getting to him. Pure Vanilla felt great knowing his pain in the soul jam went away and that he took a step closer to helping Shadow Milk; he'll go find him after he wakes up. The Ancient pressed his Soul Jam closer to his chest, still feeling he can not let his guard down even in his sleep. Soon enough, he fell asleep. Letting himself rest after the venture.

Meanwhile in Fairy Kingdom, White Lily was taking care of her duties and talking to friends. Mostly helping others. She’s glad Pure Vanilla is safe now, Shadow Milk cookie is a dangerous Beast, he killed Elder Fairy Cookie, which she can’t forgive. She really cares for Pure Vanilla, they were friends since academic days, they even dated once, but their paths went apart. Now they’re best friends.

White Lily reminded herself that Gingerbrave,Wizard and Strawberry cookie are leaving. She should go and say goodbye to them, Pure Vanilla is probably there too and she would like to check on him . Fortunately the port isn't so far away so she should get there in time

She was right on the corner, when she finally saw them. White Lily quickly went to them, it seemed like they were deporting in a second. -“Ginger Brave!” - she yelled for one of her friends' names, so anyone would notice her and they did, which was a relief.

“Oh White Lily cookie! I thought we wouldn’t see you” - Wizard cookie exclaimed.

“ I would like to say goodbye to you all, how are you all feeling?” - White Lily cookie asked, while still trying to regulate her breath.

“We’re okay, it was really nice of you to let us stay here..” - Strawberry cookie answers - “Thank you”

“Yeah! Strawberry is right. You were almost late, we were supposed to go right now.” - Ginger Brave spoke up.

“I am glad to hear you liked it here, I’ll make sure to tell others” - White Lily had a slight blush on her face from the fact she was a good househost- “Have Pure Vanilla already talked to you all?”

“No.. We haven't seen him since this morning, if anything we thought you two would come together?” - Wizard cookie, sounded confused.

“Oh, really? I will go look for him later” - White Lily cookie sighed, why haven’t Pure Vanilla come here? Did something happen? Maybe he was really tired last night.

It has been a few minutes, and all of them have exchanged some words with each other. Though soon Ginger Brave and his gang had to leave, or they would miss their flight. They said their goodbye’s. White Lily stayed there until they disappeared in the clouds, even though she was happy they were doing alright, she was a little worried for Pure Vanilla. Of course there were moments before when he slept more than most of the time, but she was sure he wouldn’t miss out on saying goodbye to his friends leaving.

White Lily was walking through the corridor heading to Pure Vanilla's room, on her way she greeted some fairy cookies, though she kept the conversation quite short, explaining she has to check on her friend. Once she was finally at his door she knocked three times, to only be met with silence. Another three knocks, and another. She made sure to make them loud enough to wake him up if he was asleep, but again no one answered. She was getting stressed that he might have fainted or something else happened, so she decided to open the door.

The room was.. empty. No sign of life, except flowers on the desk. White Lily went in and made sure to look that he wasn’t there. Maybe he went out? Oh god and if he got lost in the wilderness? or something attacked him? She was about to leave, until something caught her eye. An envelope, noted to her. She went to it, and recognized Pure Vanilla's writing style. She was curious why he left a letter instead of talking to her. Well there is only one way to find out.

She gently opened the letter and read with focus what her friend had written. Her face went from curiosity to fear, he went to The Spire?! Why would he go alone?..Her instincts told her to go right away after him, find him and talk the idea out of his head. She couldn’t handle losing another important person to her. Her grip on the paper was more firm now, but he did tell her to not go after him. How is she supposed to react? How will she know what is happening to him?..

After a few minutes of giving it a thought, White Lily decided to give him 4 days. Starting from tomorrow, if he doesn't come back or at least write to her, she will have to go to him. She can’t just let him fall into the arms of a beast again, not after he told her what happened at The Spire before. She now just needs to wait, patiently. Hoping and Praying to the witches for Pure Vanilla’s safety.

Chapter Text

Pure Vanilla, gently opened his eyes, expecting the sound of birds chirping, smell of lilies and sun beams going through his curtains, lighting up his chamber with a warm glow. Only to wake up in a cold room. He couldn’t see without his staff but the atmosphere was enough to give away that he wasn’t in Vanilla nor Fairy Kingdom. The Ancient sighed and sat up leaning on the bed frame, at least his sleep wasn’t disturbed by overwhelming pain in his soul jam.

Pure Vanilla brushed his fingers against his soul jam, which was safely on his chest. Normally he would put it aside for the night, though that he was at The Spire, with Shadow Milk roaming around, he would rather keep it safe within his reach. Pure Vanilla slowly got off the bed looking for his staff, he reached out his hand to the bed shelf. Once he finally got a grip on his Staff, Pure Vanilla could finally look around, only reassuring himself that he was indeed in The Spire of Deceit.

It’s time to get ready, he needs to talk with Shadow Milk. It didn't take long until Pure Vanilla was ready. Though before he went out, he went to the bathroom to brush his teeth and hair. He was greatly thankful that Shadow Milk went out of his way to get him the necessities to take care of himself. He was truthly ready within another 5 minutes. Now standing in front of the door, getting mentally ready. With a sigh he rotated the cold metal door knob and opened the door to be met with pure chaos.

He reminded himself that even though his room is quite nice, the rest of The Spires unfolding is messed up, sometimes seeing things floating, stairs leading in different directions, sometimes to dead ends and weirdly placed objects. It wasn’t his type of design, but this wasn't his place as well. He should be appreciative that Shadow Milk took him into The Spire.

The Place was familiar, even though Pure Vanilla got lost a few times. He could remember some of the ways around, he did stay here when he was Truthless Recluse. Pure Vanilla was searching for Shadow Milk, he looked in a few rooms where he guessed the other may be, but The Beast was nowhere to be seen. Maybe he went out somewhere, well the only way to find out is to search around or ask someone. Now thinking about it, he wondered if Shadow Milk told Black Sapphire and Candy Apple that he would be staying here. It wouldn’t be a pleasant surprise for them. Pure Vanilla sighed, getting tired from walking up on all the stairs. If only the place was easier to move around.

Pure Vanilla was almost sure that Shadow Milk wasn’t in The Spire and there was nothing he could do except waiting. He could go back to his room or try to walk around The Spire hoping he would find something interesting. He did get a glimpse of a garden at the back, maybe going there would be a good idea. Though he had no idea how to really get there, maybe he could just snoop around some rooms, he would go for a read right now. A Spire this big must have a library or two, right?

Pure Vanilla was walking around some corridors, from time to time looking at the portraits of Shadow Milk or paintings, he wondered if The Beast painted them himself. Pure Vanilla walked closer to one of them and delicately touched it, getting some dust on his fingers. They must be really old. The Ancient went to another pair of doors and opened them, relieved finally seeing shelves full of books. He went in to see that the room was quite more warm than the rest of The Spire. He was surprised that the library was more decorated in warm colors than blue. Seeing way more of Purple and even sometimes a little bit of red here and there. It surely was more pleasing, Pure Vanilla went to one of the book shelves to find something he would be interested in. Gently Brushing the books with his fingers, while reading the titles.

He picked a few books, mostly about herbs or about cookies medicine, he was a healer after all. Though he used magic as his main source, if he couldn’t use it, it would be nice to know herbs that would help. Pure Vanilla noticed a small table, so he decided to sit down. Placing the books beside him while he picked one and started to go through the pages. He would sometimes need to blow off the dust on the sheets, it seemed no one used the library for a long time.

The Ancient finished at least half of the book, when he decided to take a small break. He tried to see how much time had passed, but there was no clock in the library, not even a single window. Pure Vanilla stood up, placing the book aside, he decided to go out and look for a window or some sort of clock. He went to the door, opening them slowly to be met with a soft giggle.

“Silly Nilly! I was looking for you” - Shadow Milk was a few inches away from Pure Vanilla's face, hovering over the other.

Pure Vanilla Flinched and stepped back, almost falling down. Fortunately balancing himself with his staff. Meanwhile Shadow Milk flew in the library, he seemed quite surprised to see this room.

“Ah, Shadow Milk. I was also looking for you .” - Pure Vanilla walked towards The Beast, trying to shake off the shock. - “I wanted to do something while you were gone, so I found this library. I hope you don’t mind I read some books”

Shadow Milk looked back at Pure Vanilla. “ I don’t care, it’s just some old stuff” - he rolled his eyes and flew to the books Pure Vanilla took.

“Oh, Alright then.” - Pure Vanilla smiled gently - “I wanted to talk to you about some things” - The Ancient also went to the table he was reading before and sat down.

Shadow Milk glanced at him - “What is it old man, did you finally decide to give me my soul jam back?” - He flew over to Pure Vanilla, poking him on his forehead.

“No, Shadow Milk. I made it clear that this soul jam belongs to me” - Pure Vanilla gently touched the soul jam on his chest, frowning his eyebrows. - “I wanted to talk about the pain I’ve been enduring since I left The Spire”

Shadow Milk looked unphased. - “ Maybe your age is finally getting to you, besides aren't you a healer. Just heal yourself dumbass”

“I meant the pain in my soul jam, have you felt it too? It was getting worse and worse, until I went back to The Spire.” - Pure Vanilla was looking at his soul jam, giving Shadow Milk short glances.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about, you know maybe you should better tell me what you have done to me” - Shadow Milk knew what the other was talking about, he felt it too. Some sort of consistent pain that kept getting worse, now when he thought about it. It did disappear when Pure Vanilla came to The Spire, but he didn't want to admit it he was feeling pain like some pathetic, fragile cookie. He was a Beast, he was better than a simple being, he didn’t need sleep or food. Besides it was gone so who cares. He was more interested in what Pure Vanilla has done to him, he has been feeling too many things lately. Just the whole thought he has been feeling something is unusual, making him feel disgusted by himself. Shadow Milk can’t even recall the last time he felt something like that, it was so long ago and he wants to keep it this way.

Pure Vanilla looked confused at the other - “Could you elaborate? I do not know what you mean? Did I give you wounds that won’t heal? I am greatly sorry, Shadow Milk. I can help you heal them.” - He had no Idea what Shadow Milk was talking about, has he done something as Truthless Recluse, that he doesn't remember now?

“Oh you know what I mean! You put some sort of spell on me.” - Shadow Milk said harshly.

Pure Vanilla tilted his head, still not knowing what the other was talking about. - “Shadow Milk, I really don't know what you mean. I haven’t put any spell on you, at least I don’t remember doing anything, can you tell me about it? Maybe I can help with whatever is happening” - He tried to ease the other with a soft smile.

“Liar! After you left I’ve begun to feel these.. these.. things! Just take it off, you know it’s not really pure of you to curse somebody!” - Again, he felt anger building up in his body. He felt his jam start to boil. Shadow Milk pointed his staff at Pure Vanilla, though not to shoot him, more like a warning.

“You mean.. feelings? That's normal Shadow Milk, everyone feels emotions. That is what connects us all.” - Pure Vanilla was a bit confused again, he saw Shadow Milk show happiness or anger before and it wasn’t a problem. Was Shadow Milk going through something while he was alone?

“I am not like you all! I am a beast! I don’t need your petty little feelings.” - Shadow Milk now charged up his staff ready to fire at Pure Vanilla, he saw the other flinch and grip his own staff, though when he was about to shoot, he felt sudden pain in his soul jam, he couldn’t do it. Not because he didn’t have power, because when he looked at the other. It just felt wrong. That's what he feared the most. That he would doubt himself, hesitate. He didn’t feel the same about others. He could torture other cookies, but when he wants to do it to Pure Vanilla, he feels guilty. Like his own mind is betraying him. Shadow Milk clenched his soul jam.

“Shadow Milk is everyth-” - Pure Vanilla tried to say something but he was shortly interrupted by the other.

“Just Shut up! Can’t you see what you are doing to me? Why did you even come here? to make everything worse?!” -Shadow Milk had a trembling smile on his face, showing off his teeth. Two fangs so sharp they would rip someone's skin without a problem, so sharp like ‘the blade's edge that separates truth from deceit’. He let go of his staff that disappeared into nihility. Still clenching his soul jam, Shadow Milk flew back. - “Leave. You can’t even fix what you’ve done.”

“Wait- Shadow Milk!” - Pure Vanilla stood up, reaching out his arm, wanting to grab the other. But he was too late, Shadow Milk already gone. He disappeared like his staff, probably gone somewhere far away. Pure Vanilla, looked down at his hands. He sighed, well this didn’t go to his plan, you could even say he made things worse. He really did not have any idea what Shadow Milk meant, he hadn't put a spell on him and what The Beast was saying sounded just like experiencing emotions, which was quite common. At Least Pure Vanilla knew about something that was happening to Shadow Milk, he seemed so scared, like he feared to feel.

Pure Vanilla leaned on the chair, massaging his temple. The other told him to leave, should he? Pure Vanilla believed that Shadow Milk could change, he wanted to understand, be his friend. But if the other won’t cooperate then what's the point? The Ancient felt a sudden tug in his soul jam, sending pain all over his chest. The ache came back, though Pure Vanilla thought that it wouldn’t come back since he was in The Spire, he imagined it had to do with Shadow Milk since they shared the both halves, but The Beast said that he didn’t feel anything. Was he lying? He was the Beast of Deceit after all. Pure Vanilla couldn’t leave, not yet. He wants to help the other.

Pure Vanilla stood up, he wanted to go back to his room, give it a little more thought. He looked over to the books he took before, he picked them and went to put them back. Shadow Milk needs time and he can wait patiently. First day and he already messed things up, but it's alright. It won't be easy.

The Ancient went out of the library, feeling now how warm the other room was. Pure Vanilla looked at his soul jam and touched it gently, why does it hurt so much. Will he ever get an answer, maybe he should come back to the library later and look for something in the books.

Shadow Milk was flying through the corridor. Pure Vanilla must have put a spell on him, it's his fault. He is not broken, he doesn't need his pity nor his help. Shadow Milk doesn't need anyone's help. He should have shot him in the library, everything has been messed up since Pure Vanilla showed up. He shouldn’t have let him in, what did he think? He hated feeling like this, his mind was buzzling with things he did not want to feel. He did not want to go back to who he was before, Shadow Milk is perfect now.

The Beast stopped, he felt another shot of strong pain in his soul jam. He gripped the crystal jam. Shadow Milk was now confused, why did it come back. Wasn’t it supposed to be gone?
He did not have patience for this, whatever this is it better be gone soon or else he will go insane. Another shot of pain, sending shivers through his whole body.

“What the fuck”-Shadow Milks voice was a little trembly, he clutched the soul jam even stronger.

Shadow Milk heard footsteps, he completely forgot he was in a corridor. It couldn't have been Pure Vanilla, he teleported quite far away in The Spire. So it must be one of his minions.The Beast straightened up his posture and stopped gripping his soul jam.

After nearly a second Black Sapphire appeared out of the corner -”Master?”

“What do you want Black Sapphire” -Shadow Milk put a wide grin on his face though his voice sounded tired.

“I was looking for you, about the rumor you wanted to spre-” Black Sapphire was interrupted by the other cookie.

“Forget about it, I don’t have time for that now” -Shadow Milk was about to leave, but he reminded himself that maybe he should tell them about Pure Vanilla, since they know nothing.- “By the way, Pure Vanilla’s here.”

Black Sapphire sounded kind of shocked- “He came back? Why would he even do that?”-He put his chin on his hand.

Shadow Milk was about to leave again, he wasn't really in the mood to talk. He did what he had to so now he can leave.

“Should I tell Candy Apple? She won't be pleased by the news” - Black Sapphire exclaimed.

“Whatever, just don’t fuck up this time.” - The Beast disappeared without a word, leaving Black Sapphire alone.