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Chapter Text

In another life he would have been King: but he was quite liking how things played out.

Affogato Cookie assumed that he would never see his mother or father again. With how Black Pearl Cookie ruled over the Duskgloom Sea mercilessly and Piccolo Cream Cookie went missing on a mission to see his wife, Affogato remained alone in the Coffee Tribe. Although it was quaint and he did make a couple friends—even if Espresso Cookie and Latte Cookie were his cousins—that he kept close.

Even now he wondered how they were fairing after the…ambush. Just pondering on that idea whilst he laid upon one of the many rocks under the sea. He traced the pattern idly, his eyes flitting up to watch the other creatures swim merrily. He gave a soft smirk when gummy fish swam around him in circles. He let out a quiet giggle as the fish tried nipping at his dough, and he gently waved them away. He placed his cheek in his hand, the smile fading.

Despite being utterly grateful for having his mother back, he was nothing short of bored. It had already been almost a month since he joined her into the ocean, even learning the ropes as to what she did to scare off sailors. Whatever rising rage and irritation he felt, an unlucky boat would course through the Duskgloom Sea and he would have an outlet. Pale eyes would stare at the terrified sailors before disaster struck, and silence rang out after the fear-filled screams. Their ship would sink and break apart, and the Cookies would become soggy and fall into crumbs, never to be seen again.

Perhaps that happened to Father, he thought to himself. He secretly prayed that wasn’t the case, and he even brought in logical points to soothe his own worry.

• His father knew his mother was and will never be a threat to him.
• He went the complete opposite direction of where she was.
• He had that Captain with him…what was the Captain’s name again?

He shook his head, deciding not to dwell on the name of a face he hardly recognized. It was futile anyway, to drown in his thoughts. Literally. 

A poorly timed pun, but he brushed it off. He pushed himself off of the rock he lazed upon and swam away. His eyes flitted around to look at every detail, crevice, corner and shadow. Suddenly, the heaviness he felt on the surface was gone, replaced with a sense of contentment and peace.

…almost. He was still internally enraged: but nothing like drowning a few sailor Cookies to their impending doom couldn’t fix. Either letting them innocently explore the sea, or perching on a nearby rock out in the middle of nowhere to lure them in. It worked like a charm every single time, and he couldn’t help but have a bit of an ego boost because of it.

“Enjoying yourself, my little pearl?” Black Pearl called out suddenly, and Affogato turned to her. He gave a slight smile, swimming over to where she was. He didn’t shy away when she pulled him in for a quick hug, then pulled back.

“I am,” Affogato replied, “thank you for bringing me here, Mother. It’s been nice being here. Much…” He trailed off: what did he want to say? Better? More freeing or peaceful? “...different from what I’m used to.”

“Even still, you’ve been adjusting rather well here.” Black Pearl remarked.

“I am?” The question slipped from his mouth before he could even stop it. Black Pearl faced him fully, her own expression softening.

“You are,” she repeated gently, “and I’m proud of you.”

Affogato’s chest felt warmer at her second comment. He smiled: but it was different. For multiple years on end, his typical smiles were sickeningly sweet to the point where it wracked suspicion from right-doers. That smile he forced whenever he was the royal advisor in the Dark Cacao Kingdom didn’t compare to the grin he wore currently. It was gentler and more relaxed now, with his eyes crinkling just slightly. For once he didn’t wear a mask, and he never felt better.

…he caught himself in his head again: he needed to anchor his thoughts. He blinked twice, shaking his head. He gripped onto his staff tightly, almost grounding himself.

“Something the matter?” Black Pearl asked him, gently.

“No, I’m just thinking again.” He reassured her. Despite earning a pointed, concerned look, she didn’t press further. She opened her mouth to speak, but her pale eyes locked on something in the distance. Her pupils turned to thin slits, and her mouth twisted into a scowl. Affogato followed her gaze, raising a brow.

They both looked up to the lapping water from the surface, and the bottom of a wooden ship. They didn’t move, only sat and watched the slow movements from above. Black Pearl turned her attention to her son, giving a slight grin when she noticed his fascination and urgency to turn the sailors into soggy trash.

“Would you like to have a go at this one?” She asked suddenly. Affogato jolted out of his thoughts, turning back to her. His eyes sparked again.

“I would.” He told her.

“Then have at it, my little pearl,” she encouraged him,  “just how I taught you.”

Affogato nodded again, then pushed himself away from the rock, swimming underneath the boat.. He hesitated, looking back at his mother—almost asking for silent confirmation. When she nodded at him, he went out from under the boat. He pulled his head back to look above him, then swam up with vigor. When he rose from the sea, water crashed around him, temporarily blanketing him before he stood up fully. He didn’t realize how much larger he gotten, almost now towering over the boat. He took a moment to recover, before staring down at the boat and its unlucky sailors.

His glowing pale eyes went wide when he recognized that candy cane in that blasted gingerbread cookie’s hand. Those piercing blue eyes, that swoop of white hair, those two skull drops on his chest: it didn’t matter now, even when he recognized the cookie’s crew. Old rage burst through his veins and chest, making his heart pump quickly.

Gingerbrave and his little friends.

When they all stared up in angry terror, all he did was smirk in satisfaction: this was sure to be a fun experience.

Chapter Text

The docks were quiet this morning…up until Gingerbrave, Strawberry Cookie, Wizard Cookie, Custard Cookie III and Chili Pepper Cookie ran along it in pure excitement. Their laughter and chatter flitted through the morning air, bringing a lighthearted feel to this daunting task.

“Alrighty guys!” Gingerbrave exclaimed, a pep in his step. He held a rolled up map in his hands and wore a bag on his back. “We’re headed to our next task!”

“Umm…Gingerbrave,” Strawberry Cookie caught up to him, “are you sure we can handle this mission?” She was normally anxious during these situations, but this time, something felt off. It rubbed her the wrong way.

“Of course we can! It’s just asking Sea Fairy Cookie for help, too!” Gingerbrave said, but it did anything but reassure her. As much as he was trying to be optimistic, it was really getting under her skin.

“I-I know!” She replied quickly. “Just…concerned is all.”

“I’m just looking forward to the potential amount of coins there will be!” Chili Pepper rested her hands behind her head, still walking alongside them. “We could get rich in the process!”

“But that’s not the goal here.” Wizard Cookie cut in. “The goal is to ask for help, not obtain riches!”

“But why us ?” Strawberry interjected. Everyone went quiet.

“Because we got this! Look at how everything turned out, we beat so many monsters and enemies!” Gingerbrave answered. “Especially how we’ve handled things in the Citadel, against Affogato Cookie, no less! We’ll be fine. ”

“But the problem is…we don’t know what lies in that ocean.” Strawberry added. Another beat of silence, this time out of understanding.

“That’s true,” Gingerbrave frowned, “and there could be something stronger too.” He slowly began overthinking things. What if they couldn’t handle it this time? What if they were lost to the sea? What if they… crumbled in the process?

“Well have no fear!” Custard Cookie III declared suddenly. “For you have your King by your side!”

“Custard…” Wizard Cookie began with a sigh, then decided to drop it all together. He shook his head, before slowing his pace down when the rest of the group did. They all stared at the docked ship in front of them. The waves of the sea lapped against the wood gently, and that only made Gingerbrave more excited. He was practically buzzing with energy, jumping up and down.

“Aw yeah! Let’s go!” He rushed forward, dragging Strawberry and Wizard along, making them both yelp. Chili Pepper laughed in amusement, dragging Custard herself. After a few minor complications with the ship—that were thankfully fixed, thanks to Wizard—they were off. Chili Pepper stood behind the ship’s wheel. She put her hands on it, giving a small hum.

“Woah…were you a pirate perchance?” Gingerbrave perked up.

“Not a pirate,” Chili Pepper shrugged, “but I did learn a thing or two from them!”

“Woah!” Gingerbrave marvelled. 

“Which one of you had the map? And the compass?” Chili Pepper called out.

“I believe Custard has it…” Strawberry peeked over.

“Yes I do!” Custard held it up triumphantly,

“Great, now quit posing and hand it over!” Chili Pepper held her hand out. She gave a satisfied smile and opened the map up. “Alrighty, let’s check this out…” Her eyes narrowed in focus, scanning the markings of the paper. “Okay! If we take this right, then straight ahead… then this should be a piece of cake!” She gripped the wheel. “Pull the anchor!”

Strawberry, Wizard and Gingerbrave—and begrudgingly Custard—all used their body weight to pull up the anchor. The wind kicked in, the sails puffing out almost pridefully. The ship, starting off slightly rocky, pushed out into deeper water, and their adventure began…

____

The blazing sun was fortunately beat by the cool ocean breezes that sifted through. Chili Pepper steered the ship with precision, humming a tune to herself. She designated Custard as her map and compass holder, striking up conversations to keep him entertained. Gingerbrave stood in the crow’s nest, his hand hovering over his eyes to shield them from the sun. Squinting, he looked for any island in sight.

“I haven't seen anything yet!” He called out.

“Patience, we’ll get there!” Chili Pepper replied.

“Do you think Sea Fairy will be willing to help us?” Strawberry turned her attention to Wizard.

“Hopefully: though I doubt she’s irrational.” Wizard replied. “Well, if we explain how many Cookies are helping us out, surely she’ll listen!”

“Maybe…” Strawberry hummed, tugging on one of her hoodie’s drawstrings. “...I have a bad feeling about these seas though.”

“You typically always have a bad feeling,” Wizard commented, quickly, “no offense.”

“None taken.” She mumbled.

Wizard’s shoulders sagged slightly, then he put his hand on her shoulder. “We’ve handled every other threat well, yeah?”

“Yeah…?” Strawberry tilted her head.

“So if anything were to happen, we can handle that too.” Wizard’s eyes crinkled as he smiled. Strawberry’s eyes did the same, and the tension she felt in her body…but it was short lived. She stared at the front of the ship, brows furrowing as she noticed the sky darken. Lightning flickered through the dark gray clouds, being the only light source.

“Uhhh…are you sure we’re going the right way?” Strawberry turned back to Wizard. Another strike of lightning, and she flinched.

“You might be right about this one.” Wizard finally admitted when raindrops crashed down from the sky. “Chili Pepper, turn back!”

“Wait, no!” Gingerbrave got down from the crow’s nest. “We can’t just leave after we’re already in the middle of nowhere!”

“We’re going to die if we don’t move!” Wizard argued. Chili Pepper worked her way with the steering wheel, gripping it firmly.

“HOLD ON!” She yelled, and she tried turning the ship in vain. But the winds and currents were a difficult obstacle, and the ship grew rockier.

“Grab onto someone, everyone!” Custard exclaimed.

“It won’t turn!” Chili Pepper growled out.

“Oh no. ” Strawberry tugged her drawstrings again, glancing down at the water. Something’s shadow swam under, and pale eyes were visible. Her heart dropped into her stomach, and she wasn’t the only one who noticed this.

“What was that…?” Wizard shrunk back. Before anyone could respond, crashing waves grew louder, and the sloshing of water launched droplets everywhere. A shadow of a siren blanketed over them, and those familiar pale eyes glowed in the darkness.

And suddenly, fear seeped into their very dough.

Chapter Text

As if they were staring the Grim Reaper Cookie in the eye, Gingerbrave and his friends faltered . So much for Pure Vanilla Cookie telling them not to.

Affogato lazily tilted his head, his smirk widening into a sharp grin. His eyes lidded, drinking in the fact that he had the upper hand.

“Look at what we have here,” he crooned, “five Cookies waiting to become soggy nothingness. ”

Strawberry, in the midst of feeling horror, immediately recognized the siren above them all, despite the shadow that casted over them. “Affogato Cookie?”

Suddenly the fear in Gingerbrave’s eyes shifted into determination and anger. “You! What’re you doing here?!”

“Can’t a Cookie spend a little leisure time in the ocean?” Affogato narrowed his eyes, pupils slitting. “My my, for a hero, you’re a little… dense. ” 

“But what made you come here of all places?” Strawberry asked, brows furrowed in confusion. Affogato turned his attention to her.

“Well my little berry,” He leaned down, the shadow that casted over them darkening, “this is my home, after all.”

“Home? You live in the ocean?” Chili Pepper asked, then frowned slightly. Her brows furrowed as she crossed her arms over her chest. “And do we expect to…?! …believe you…?” She faltered when he raised an irritated eyebrow, gesturing down at his lower body. A black siren tail with specks of glittering, violet scales. His upper half of his body, he donned long, black gloves with short, white translucent sleeves that fell off his shoulders. His top mimicked Black Pearl Cookie’s but it was a faded, deep purple. His fins were translucent shades of light violet, and his hair was pulled back into a large, fluffy braid. One part of his hair was separated and braided into smaller strands, being held together with a black pearl pendant. “…huh.” She finally choked out..

“I have ways,” he said simply, “not that I would bother to share with you vagabonds.”

“That’s no way to speak to royalty!” Custard chimed in, his bottom lip poking out in a pout.

“Oh trust me little prince, I have plenty of experience with chatting among royalty.” Affogato bent down, narrowing his eyes once more. “Though I would hardly call you a King, considering I’ve overheard your interactions with your friends.” He reached to poke Custard, but quickly retracted when he was whacked with a scepter. “Temperamental little royal, are you?~” He tutted mockingly.

“Whatever hidden motive you have, we’ll defeat you!” Gingerbrave exclaimed. Affogato chuckled, a lower, more threatening sounding laugh.

“Gingerbrave, Gingerbrave, Gingerbrave…” He shook his head slowly, his eyes briefly closed. “You’ve never been to these parts, have you? Don’t you know how dangerous it is around here?” He asked tauntingly, eyes opening. The paleness of his irises seemed to glow faintly in the gloomy, darkened atmosphere of the stormy sea.

“We—we‘ve dealt with you before and won! If you try anything, we’ll—!” Gingerbrave stammered, his composure slipping slightly. Affogato delicately placed his hands on either side of the ship, a haunting grin ghosting on his lips.

“You’ll…what? Hm?” Affogato rocked the ship back and forth, starting off gently. He giggled lowly when he saw the Cookies struggling to remain upright, sliding across the deck as they yelled in surprise.

“Enough! I cast this spell to halt you!” Wizard stabilized himself on the railing of the ship’s bow. “Abraca-Cookie–dabr–AAH!” He screeched when Affogato tilted the ship back. Wizard flicked his scepter, and bright blue magic burst from it. It barreled directly towards Affogato’s left eye. His head jerked back slightly in surprise, blinking away the sensation. He let out a growl, shoving the ship forcefully on its side.

“HANG ON!” Chili Pepper yelled, gripping onto the railing. Custard rolled down, yelping when he almost dropped into the ocean.

“CUSTARD!” Gingerbrave yelled, grabbing his hand. He also slipped, but Wizard saved him. Gingerbrave quickly reached out to Strawberry when she slipped herself. They all held onto each other for dear life.

“Oh how sentimental, the little Cookies are trembling !” Affogato giggled. “Oh so terrified to get their dough soggy…but your resistance is laughably futile.

“What are you saying?!” Wizard sputtered out, grunting when he felt his hold on Strawberry loosening.

“I’m saying,” Affogato leaned down to them, his hands reaching to pluck Chili Pepper Cookie off of the railing. “ Get in the water. ”

“...what?” Gingerbrave whispered. There was no more determination in his eyes, only alarm and fear. Affogato grinned widely.

“Get in the water.” He repeated. “Or else I will ensure that both you and your friends will drown. ”

“NO!” Gingerbrave screamed, flinching at the sudden crack of thunder. This can’t be happening! He internally panicked: this was not how things were supposed to go . He was certain that things would run smoothly, aside from minor complications. Not a siren attack from the hands of Affogato Cookie! He felt his jam run cold, and he was jerked back to his senses.

 “Hold on everybody!” He cried out. “We–we still need to get to Sea Fairy Cookie!”

Affogato’s grin twisted into a confused sneer. He raised a brow. “...Sea Fairy Cookie? What purpose does she serve you?” He then let out a scoff. “And why on Earthbread have you come all the way out here if you’re searching for her?”

“Because the map…said…” Chili Pepper faltered.

“You are in the complete opposite direction.” Affogato sighed in irritation.

“...we are?” Strawberry asked, a mix of curiosity and confusion. She tilted her head. “Chili Pepper! Didn’t the map—”

“It was the wrong map! ” Chili Pepper grunted, her grip loosening on the railing. She carefully readjusted, pulling herself and her friends up.

“Which map have you been looking at?! ” Affogato asked, exasperated now. The group turned their attention to him, back to each other, then him again. He groaned, rolling his eyes. “Must’ve been an old one, then.” He told himself. “...but why do you need her help?”

“We-we’ve been getting aid from everywhere!” Strawberry gripped onto Wizard Cookie like a lifeline. “Hollyberry Kingdom, Golden Cheese Kingdom, Dark Cacao Kingdom, Pure Vanilla Kingdom, the City of Wizards—”

Her brown eyes locked with Affogato’s pale ones as she rambled on, choosing to block out mentions of the Dark Cacao Kingdom. Seeing her genuine fear…stirred something in him.

“For what? ” He questioned firmly.

“Something’s wrong! Ganache Tar is trapping Cookies and poisoning them, and Chocolate Cicadas are terrorizing everyone!” Gingerbrave exclaimed quickly.

“Chocolate Cicadas ?” Affogato bit back a shudder. Oh how he dreaded insects with a passion. It reminded him of the lower times in the Coffee Tribe, where they would skitter along the ground and tent walls. His skin crawled at the memory.

“ Huge monsters, their wingspan is huge and because of that, they created heavy wind!” Wizard told him.

Great, Affogato deadpanned to nobody in particular, large bugs coming to terrorize everyone…and what was it about Ganache Tar making everyone sick…? The more he thought about it, the more he recalled seeing some of the surrounding coral being caked in it. How, he had no idea, but he couldn’t lie and say he wasn’t intimidated.

“Please, just release us!” Custard choked out, quivering now. He held onto Chili Pepper like his life depended on it, tears pricking his eyes.

“Cry all you want, little prince. It will not let you escape from fate—” Affogato was about to dunk the ship into the sea. 

“Please, just help us! ” Gingerbrave cried out in fear.

“After what you had done to me? Why should I help puny little pests like you all?” Affogato hissed out, narrowing his eyes.

“Either we get your help or we all die !” Gingerbrave argued. “Set our differences aside for once!”

“And what would I gain out of this?”

“We’ll talk to Dark Cacao, get you back into the Kingdom if you help us! He’ll see if you change, then maybe he can grant you another chance!”

That stilled Affogato completely. Another chance? It felt laughable at how tempted he felt with this offer. But the more he stirred on it, the more he looked down at those Cookies.

…all of them were kids. Excluding Chili Pepper…but they were kids. Harmless kids sent on potentially murderous quests, all because they were unfortunately chosen as Heroes.

His heart ached and he wanted to kick himself for feeling this way. His brows furrowed and his eyes narrowed, glancing back and forth between each member. Witches strike him down if he ever showed vulnerability to any of them.

…but that cold dread washed over him: his mother. He just got back, and heeded her warnings about Cookiekind, how much they were utterly hated by her. Going against her made his stomach churn, especially after being accepted so lovingly. Who knows what she would do to him?

He was yanked out of his head when he heard Strawberry’s yell. His head snapped to her as he watched her lose her grip and fall, about to hit the ocean.

“...Mother is going to kill me. ” He muttered, and without any more hesitation, he steadied the ship, then reached out and caught her before she could fall.

Chapter Text

She expected to be left to drown: but Strawberry was pleasantly surprised to find herself saved by Affogato Cookie. The Cookie that her and her friends defeated, the one that fled the Citadel wordlessly. How vengeful and bitter he looked when towering over them. That grin that spread across his face felt like she was going to die—that they were going to die.

Those fearful thoughts intensified when he began to toy with the ship. Tilting it and rocking it carelessly while they were tossed around the deck, as if they were filled sacks. It was as if time decided to slow down, making things much more unbearable.

But then came to reasoning, and it halted. Confusion was drawn in like sailors to the sea, the way he tilted his head as if he was contemplating on what to do… especially after it was mentioned that they were looking for Sea Fairy.

“...Sea Fairy Cookie? What purpose does she serve you? And why on Earthbread have you come all the way out here if you’re searching for her?”

“You are in the complete opposite direction.”

He no longer sounded confused: only  irritated and not at all amused with the predicament they were all in. He looked just ready to tear them to little crumbles and leave them to become soggy, then resume his pleasant day. But something about Strawberry’s eyes stopped him from doing so. How, she had no clue, but it was as if something stirred.

And just as she thought she would drop into the ocean, she was saved. She stared up at him with wide, fearful eyes. Her entire dough trembled under his gaze, but she couldn’t help but cling to him, as if he was going to drop her at any second. But he never did.

Affogato had her in the palm of his hand, and he brought her closer to him. All venom and malice were gone in his words and gaze, replaced by an amused softness to his eyes. That was the only indicator, otherwise his face was perfectly neutral. Strawberry was suddenly brought back to her full conscience. He heard desperate cries and yells.

“Let her go!” Gingerbrave screamed, his voice cracking with fury. He almost looked ready to lunge at the Cookie-siren hybrid, ready to risk his own life. It wasn’t until Custard put his scepter in front of him, blocking him..

“Wait a moment!” He exclaimed. “He just saved her!” 

Affogato raised a brow silently, tilting his head to the other side. Strawberry mirrored his actions, the silence palpable. “...you’re a unique one, hm? Strawberry flavoring, yet it’s all artificial…you bear no corruption or evil within your dough, do you?”

“I…don’t.” She answered, taken aback. She tugged on her drawstrings, and he noticed. He was making her nervous.

Good, he told himself, especially after what they’ve done to me. But the malicious thought faded, and suddenly he was looking back at a fragment of his past.

At the little boy who was terrified during the destruction of his Tribe, who wanted nothing more than to have his father shield him from the horrors…except realizing that he was missing: presumed dead by many, but to Affogato, he kept telling himself he was just missing.

He swallowed thickly, eyes searching for something, anything other than the Cookie in his palms. She was timid, and his intimidating stature wasn’t helping his cause.

She blinked in surprise when he set her back down on the deck. She watched as he gently plucked off the others—despite protests and attempts at attacking, mostly from Chili Pepper—and put them next to her. He was careful with them, hesitant. It was as if he was afraid of cracking their arms or legs on the spot. He pulled his hand away when they all eased, then stared up at him.

These are kids, he told himself, capable…but still kids. He was finally ripped from his thoughts, because he heard Chili Pepper’s voice.

“...why did you save us? What do you have planned?!” She stuck her dagger out at him, but without the usual vigor she had. Now she just seemed uncertain and wary. So much for a “thank you” or general appreciation.

“I was planning on killing you.” Affogato deadpanned. “But now that you’ve piqued my interest, consider your lives spared…for a few more moments. I shall return.” He gave a low chuckle when he noticed the fearful expressions. He backed away and lowered himself into the sea again, swimming down to get his staff.

She’s going to be angry, he told himself as he gripped the handle. His eyes went wide when he noticed the purple gem lodged into the metal glowing. His face scrunched slightly in confusion. He was even more confused when he heard it speak to him.

“Affogato Cookie,” it began, “Affogato Cookie…”

“What is going on…?” He asked himself.

“Heed my warning. Go with those Cookies and help them retrieve aid from Sea Fairy Cookie. Something is terribly wrong.”

“What’s going on ?!” He repeated, louder now. 

“Affogato?”

“AH!”

He flinched, flinched and turned around to face Black Pearl. She had an eyebrow raised in question, a frown on her features. When he tried to hide the staff, she already caught on. Her eyes widened slightly, her curiosity piqued. She reached for his staff, and he didn’t fight her. She held it, examining the glowing gem.

“Has it just started glowing?” Was all she asked. Affogato managed a nod.

“It’s speaking of some ‘heed my warning and follow the Cookies’ spiel.” He remarked. 

“What Cookies?” Black Pearl’s voice lowered. Affogato’s eyes went wide.

“I—”

“The ones on the ship? I thought you took care of them by now.”

“Mother, I can explain.”

“Then please do.”

That tone didn’t sit right with him. Was it pure disappointment, anger, or something else he couldn’t place? He dreaded the possibilities, and didn’t want to dwell. But it was hard for him not to do, feeling like a young child being scolded for doing something unruly.

“These Cookies turned up in the wrong direction—”

“—which is not your fault nor concern.”

“But they’re speaking about some danger and needing Sea Fairy Cookie’s aid.”

“And what is this danger?”

“That’s the thing, I…I’m unsure.” He glanced down, shoulders dropping. Black Pearl stilled as she watched her son. That expression…it tore her apart, and not because of his uncertainty.

That boy was exactly like his father.

She let out a quiet breath, her own shoulders dropping. She closed her eyes to regain her composure, and to push down the rising hatred she held for Cookiekind. Suddenly, she spoke up, looking into his eyes. She held onto his shoulders, squeezing just slightly.

“You are old enough to make this choice.” She stated, her grip loosening. “Whatever calls to you, chase it. I will not dictate your moves.”

Affogato’s eyes shot wide open. He stared at her in disbelief.

“But you—” He stopped when he noticed her earnestness. “...why aren’t you trembling in anger? Don’t you hate all of Cookiekind?” He sounded small, desperate, trying to seek answers and pray that she didn’t disapprove of him. “...don’t you feel disappointed?”

Especially when he ran into her arms a bawling mess that night. He couldn’t do it: was this how he repaid her? Returning back to the land that caused him such agony?

Hands pressed to both of his cheeks, and he watched her tip his head down to kiss the top of his head. She tilted his head back up, and she gave a softening gaze.

“Do you truly think so low of me?” She asked him, her voice just a whisper. Affogato opened his mouth to speak, and suddenly he leaned back into her touch. His face scrunched slightly.

“I thought I let you down.” He admitted finally, after what felt like forever.

“My little pearl,” Black Pearl spoke up, “you are in many ways like your father. And I honestly wouldn’t change that for the world.”

“You’re okay with me doing this?”

“I feared that this day would come…but I can’t say I’m unhappy with such an outcome. You would’ve made your father so proud. ”

Her words were dipped in sweetened fondness. Her eyes held a reminiscing glaze over them, and he caught onto it.

“This is all your battle to win.” She told him. “So win it. ” There was a vigorous, determined tone in her voice, as if she was urging him.

“Mother, I…” Affogato’s words died on his tongue. This is all your battle to win. That echoed in his head, and he couldn’t help but manage a stiff nod. “I will do my best.”

Black Pearl gathered him into her arms, and he hugged back fiercely.

“I’m proud of you,” she kissed the top of his head again. “Now…” She hesitantly pulled away, her hands on his arms now. “Go forth: return to me safely.”

“I will, Mother.” Affogato reassured, giving a slight grin. He watched her take a black pearl and press it into his palm.

“The maelstrom will aid you.” She informed. “Any moment you feel cornered, unleash it: show them who you really are.” She grinned when she noticed his own determination.

“I will.” He told her, holding the black pearl against his chest.

“Be safe, my little pearl. I love you.” She told him. And with a final, squeezing hug, he pulled away from her completely.

“I love you too.” Was all he said, before swimming up to the surface. He tried his hardest not to look back, but he knew what he needed to do.

He needed to help them, whether he liked it or not…because Earthbread may be in danger.

Chapter Text

The wait felt nothing short of agonizing. It left too much for the imagination: just what was he planning? An ambush, singular attack, a shipwreck? The possibilities felt tauntingly endless. Gingerbrave paced the deck, his dough prickling with a sense of restlessness. He gripped his candy cane stick like a vice, anxiety taking a toll.

“And you’re sure he didn’t plan on hurting you? Drowning you even?” He looked up at Strawberry. He had to make sure, no matter what answer there was.

“No.” She shook her head. “He had this look in his eyes…and he saved you guys too!” She added.

“True…” Gingerbrave stopped his pacing. “But it still doesn’t make sense!”

“He could be deceiving us.” Wizard suggested.

“The way he looked at Strawberry though!” Custard chimed in. “It was… strangely kind! ”

“Kind? Affogato?” Chili Pepper scoffed slightly, though it sounded like a mixture of a laugh and a huff. “He is far from kind, especially after what happened at the Citadel.”

They all simultaneously shuddered.

“But with Earthbread being in danger…we might as well get his help.” Gingerbrave furrowed his brows.

“Just gotta keep a close eye on him.” Chili Pepper nodded firmly. They all looked over the railing when they heard the waters ripple and pool, and Affogato poked his upper body out. He wasn’t as huge now, having shifted to his original, normal size. He already felt so much smaller, and he didn’t enjoy it.

“I suppose I shall spare you.” He announced, then grumbled, “Unfortunately so.”

“Really?!” Gingerbrave gasped, while Wizard furrowed his brows in suspicion.

“Yes yes, but I have dwindling patience and rising anger towards you brainless vagabonds.” Affogato rolled his eyes, his lip curling into a sneer. “So do not expect me to be your friend. We are merely allies.”

“If that.” Chili Pepper muttered.

“Hold on!” Custard then pointed beside Affogato. “There’s something after you!”

Affogato calmly turned to his right when his mother rose from the sea, still in her enlarged form. Several gasps from the young Cookies lingered, and the air felt thick with tension. Was she going to kill them, or also help them?

They felt safer when she seemed to not pose a threat. Instead, she held her palm out for him to sit in, and he crawled into it. “Allow me to assist you, my little pearl.”

“Little pearl?” The group asked in unison, but they never got an answer.

“I appreciate it, Mother. Thank you.” Affogato told his mother when she brought him closer. 

“Mother?!” Custard cried out, and shrank back when he met Black Pearl’s glare. When turning back to her son, her large, pale eyes had a certain uneasiness to them. Finally, there was a reluctant acceptance. He will be fine: he always has been. She told herself, but she couldn’t help the tightening feeling in her heart.

“I trust you, Affogato.” She finally whispered, bringing him slightly closer. She pressed him gently to her cheek, and he gave an awkward attempt at a hug. He hesitantly pulled away, then was lowered onto the ship.

“I assume that you’ll keep my son safe?” She turned back to them, diverting her attention from her son. Her glare was colder than the sea itself.

“O-of course!” Gingerbrave choked out. Strawberry nodded in confirmation, as did Wizard and Custard. Black Pearl watched, and her shoulders dropped.

“Whenever there is danger, use the pearl.” She reminded him. “The maelstrom will guide you.” Affogato nodded, still holding the black pearl. She spoke up again, “I love you.”

“I love you too, Mother. I’ll see you soon.” He looked in her eyes, swearing to her. He felt his heart grow heavy when she dipped into the ocean and swam further down. Now, he felt empty. Desolate even.

He felt like that lonely kid in the destroyed Tribe all over again. He was ripped from his thoughts when he heard Chili Pepper chuckle in amusement. He turned to her.

“Jelly-legged, huh?” She asked, about to reach for him. Affogato waved her hand away, standing up straighter.

“Not at all. Just a bit…stale, is all.” He reassured—not that he thought they would care. “I need to move around.” Great, he pondered with disdain, going to have to get used to this again.

“Welcome aboard, Affogato!” Gingerbrave greeted him brightly, despite the circumstances. Affogato swore that if he rolled his eyes again, they’d fall out of his sockets. This boy is annoyingly optimistic in a heroic way. It was cute: more so in a taunting way, rather than endearing.

“As I was originally saying, you all have ventured too far.” He remarked. “The complete and total opposite direction of Sea Fairy’s tower. Where did you even come from to get here?”

“We uh…” Strawberry began, when Custard jumped in.

“We all rested at the Pure Vanilla Kingdom, per request of your King!” He announced proudly. Affogato’s eyes narrowed.

“The little berry was speaking, Your Highness.” He spoke with contempt, but there was a bit of leniency when referring to Strawberry. He turned to her. “The Pure Vanilla Kingdom, you say?”

“Yes. We originally got aid from the rest of the Kingdoms. Pure Vanilla Cookie stated that we needed help from Sea Fairy Cookie.” She answered.

“And what drove you all the way here?” Affogato asked, now content to hear her. Nobody was talking over her, chiming in or interrupting…it was like a balm to his growing headache.

…she’s so meek, he told himself, she reminds me of someone.

He blatantly refused to acknowledge the part of him that he saw was his younger self in her.

“We read the map wrong.” Chili Pepper sighed. Affogato wanted to facepalm, to abandon ship, to return to his mother…but unfortunately, he had to set that aside.

“Brilliant.” He said sarcastically. “It doesn't matter now. What matters is that we handle this accordingly. I know my way around these parts so don’t you worry. Let’s not dawdle on this anymore.”

“Aye aye, Captain.” Chili Pepper did a mock salute, then rushed over to the wheel. Affogato scoffed, leaning against the railing. He gripped the black pearl in his hand tightly, pressing it to his chest.

“Off we go!” Gingerbrave declared triumphantly, pointing forward with his candy cane. “Back to the Pure Vanilla Kingdom!”

Affogato raised a brow. “I thought you said—”

“We’re gonna inform Pure Vanilla Cookie and the other ancients our progress!” Gingerbrave explained. Affogato kept a neutral expression, despite his thoughts spiraling.

Dark Cacao Cookie would be there. He told himself. Suddenly, the jellied feeling in his legs returned and anxiety curled in his stomach. He felt the urge to hurl over the side of the ship right then and there. He didn’t know what would await him when he got to the kingdom with the other Cookies. Would he be executed? Put to shame? He didn’t want to think of it now.

Suddenly, he was missing his mother. He felt a strange sense of deja vu—perhaps when he was a baby being taken to the Coffee Tribe by his father.

“You are in many ways like your father. And I honestly wouldn’t change that for the world.” Her words sat with him still: his father…he remembered the softness in his golden eyes, the warmth in his deep, hearty laughter. His heartbeat whenever Affogato would lay on his chest as his father soothed him to sleep.

Hearing that he went missing before his sixth birthday was poison in itself: and he grew to love poison, despite its haunting qualities. 

Despite what he became, Affogato still hung onto the belief that his father was alive. That man would never lay his life down so easily. Even after all of these years…he hoped that the Coffee Tribe will no longer be a thought in his mind again.

All he wanted was the family he had, reunited. Peacefully. But with peace comes war and strife, and he would unfortunately have to trudge through it all over again.

He looked beyond the horizon, took in a deep breath of the sea’s calming scent, and exhaled.

He kept glancing at Gingerbrave and the group, seeing them laughing and poking fun at one another. Even with the new member, they were as lighthearted as ever. The faintest, amused smirk tugged on the corner of his mouth.

This is your own battle to win, he pondered, this is your ship, and you are the captain.

Finally, the anchor rose: and they were finally off once more.