Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It felt like it's been years within Shadow Milks spire of deceit. Pure Vanilla wasn’t sure if it had been years, or if it was just a couple days. The master of the spire, Shadow Milk Cookie, had made it abundantly clear that time in the spire isn’t linear. Just like everything else in the cursed place, time preferred to lie. Pure Vanilla, Shadow Milk's precious “toy”, a once revered king and ancient hero, is now a cookie of reclusion. He couldn’t hear the light of truth anymore, despite his soul jam never being removed from his body. He lost the truth, and he lost his friends. No doubt they would’ve left the village by now. He was alone…
Or he should be. He heard heels clicking down the hall, stopping right in front of his room. If Pure Vanilla ignored them, they would leave him. Right?
Wrong. The door opened, Pure Vanilla’s curiosity getting the better of him as he looked back to see someone unexpected. A lady, who looked to be blue under the moonlight, wearing a floor length dress and a cape. Her hair, almost pure white, and her eyes seemed familiar. Pure Vanilla turned away, partially out of guilt. He wouldn’t know what to say, Thankfully, he wasn’t the first to speak.
“Hello” Her voice was gentle, but something was wrong. “It’s nice to meet you.” Pure Vanilla could hear her walk up from behind.
“You should leave.” His voice shocked him, why would he say anything to someone he doesn’t know? Her voice returned, much closer than before.
“Leave? How come?” The question seemed like a taunt.
“Just leave. It would be better for everyone.” Why is he trying to get her to leave? As much as he could claim it was for her to leave his room, he knew it was so she would leave the spire.
“You seem lonely. Tell me, are you happy here?” Pure Vanilla’s anger was starting to grow. She avoided Shadow Milks radar for so long, but she’s willingly found her way to his room and is now pestering him?!
“No. I am not, nor do I wish for company. Now leave me at least if you don’t want to heed my warnings.” He knew his voice was cold, he knew it was coming off as harsh. He didn’t care. Her laughter, quiet but eerily familiar, reaches his ears. That was how… Of course…
“Such a pretty cookie hiding in his room all day! Such shame…” Pure Vanilla looked behind him again, her skin wasn’t tinted by moonlight, and her eyes were the same colors as HIM. Course Shadow Milk could shape shift, he is known as the master of deceit. Not only that, many of his disguises are hanging around the spire, this was just another one of them
“I prefer to be alone, and I don’t like you. So leave me.” Pure Vanilla looked out his window, refusing to look back anymore. Not even through his staff.
“You don’t like me? We just met! How harsh.” Pure Vanilla noticed how her voice lacked much change, as if she was expecting this. Of course she was, he’s been trapped in this blasted spire for long enough. He snaps back.
“I know it's you, Shadow Milk. It just took me a moment to realize why you looked familiar.” Pure Vanilla’s voice, normally monotone, had a hint of disappointment mixed in. He mumbles, mainly to himself, “Not to mention you have all of your disguises painted around your spire.”
“I- Ok, fair point” He must have been mishearing things now. Shadow Milk wouldn’t stutter, especially in front of him. His voice returned to his new, typical, monotone form.
“Now leave.” He ordered.
“Jeez, and I thought finally having my other half would be fun. This is just sad.” There was disappointment in the lady’s voice. Pure Vanilla couldn’t care, yet his voice and body betrayed him.
You are keeping me captive.” He snapped, his body turning to look at the lady. “Not only that, but you are also CONSTANTLY messing with my memories.” Pure Vanilla quickly recomposed himself, taking a deep breath in before speaking again.
“Did you need me for anything.” His last statement was an offer, he knew he couldn’t do anything even if he didn’t want to. At this point, it's a courtesy.
“I-” Shadow Milk had shifted back to his normal form, and he… hesitated again. “I was going to ask if you wanted to play some games.” Shadow Milks hand starts to fidget, “Y’know, to help make yourself at home here.”
Was Shadow Milk… being nice? No, it's just another trick.. It always is… Pure Vanilla knew it didn’t matter, Shadow Milk would just force him to play anyway. “Fine.” He resigned, “Which mildly traumatizing game is it this time? The last one had the pieces explode.”
Shadow Milk's face immediately lit up, his trademark smile returning. “Whatever you want! Chess again? Or are we feeling a card game today~!?” A different voice interrupted the two of them.
“Master Shadow Mi-” Black Sapphire's voice carried into the room.
“I’M BUSY!” He snapped, the typical Shadow Milk Cookie Pure Vanilla knew returning. Of course, his gentler side was just a mask. Pure Vanilla refused to respond to Shadow Milk’s earlier question, turning back to the window.
“Master.” Black Sapphire tried again, trying his best to not annoy the temperamental beast.
“Seriously, I’m busy. Can’t you see that simple fact?” His eyes rolled, before returning to Pure Vanilla’s side. He had enough, Pure Vanilla didn’t want to be bugged by Shadow Milk. He took advantage of Black Sapphire’s interruption, thankfully.
“Black Sapphire is going to bother you until you talk to him. Why don’t you do that first?” Pure Vanilla’s voice remained carefully controlled, calm. He couldn’t risk his joy showing at the idea of being left alone by the beast. Black Sapphire stepped into his room, only taking one step in as Shadow Milk crossed the rest of the way over.
“Master Shadow Milk Cookie, Candy Apple may or may not have attempted to cook in the kitchen again. The entirety of the kitchen is covered in… something.”
“Don’t come to me, GO CLEAN IT!!” Shadow Milk’s rage was clear. Pure Vanilla could use his magic to see through his staff clearly, and the jester's rage was at least different to what he normally saw. “You seriously come up here when I’m busy trying to make our guests comfortable, and tell me about Candy Apple’s failure in the kitchen?!” Black Sapphire spoke again, the anxiety laced in his voice.
“Master, he already looked uncomfortable anyway.” Pure Vanilla decided to pitch in, knowing it couldn’t do much.
“He has a point. I’d honestly prefer to be alone. But you refuse to do so.” Behind him, Pure Vanilla could see Shadow Milk shoulders… fall? It doesn’t matter, Shadow Milk would force me to spend time with him anyway. As if on cue, Shadow Milk spoke once more.
“But, I-” He kept stumbling over his words before Black Sapphire spoke once more.
“I mean, sire, this is about making your guest comfortable, right? So your opinion doesn’t really, y’know…” Pure Vanilla stayed silent. Of course Shadow Milks opinion mattered, he’s the master of the spire. If he so wanted, Shadow Milk could forc-
“Fine.” Shadow Milk’s voice interrupted Pure Vanilla’s thoughts, causing him to whip around in shock. Shadow Milk was… floating out of his room…
Black Sapphire spoke once more, “My apologies, Pure Vanilla Cookie.” Pure Vanilla could only watch in shock as the radio host bowed, and closed the door. Leaving Pure Vanilla alone with his thoughts. This… hadn’t happened before. Ever… “I… can’t believe that worked…” The words seemed to fall from his mouth, another sigh coming from him.
Pure Vanilla looked back out of his window, finally relaxing for the first time in the day. His thoughts wandered to his friends, yet they didn’t know that he was here. They went to a nearby village, and he left them there. In hindsight, it was for the best. This spire would’ve been much worse if he knew they were in trouble.

Chapter Text

Pure Vanilla woke up, taking his time to dress himself in robes before putting his hat on. The events of the night before kept replaying in his mind. It didn’t make sense to him. Why did Shadow Milk seem to… change? Could he even change? 

It was… quiet this morning. Normally Shadow Milk would’ve already burst in, demanding he’d hurry up and get moving, and would bring him either a bowl of barely edible sludge, or something decent. He refused to eat the food, no matter who made it. 

Time passes, Pure Vanilla isn’t sure for how long though. Yet nothing happens. Curiosity finally gets the better of him. Pure Vanilla begrudgingly grabs a random book off the shelf Shadow Milk prepared for him, and starts the trek to the living area. Either Shadow Milk himself or one of his minions must be down there, and the lighting is much nicer. 

He’d barely begun to walk downwards when he heard two voices: Black Sapphire and Shadow Milk. Pure Vanilla hesitated for a moment, listening to the conversation the duo was having. 

“-Sure he’ll want to hang out with you someday.” Black Sapphire is… comforting someone? It has to be someone else they’re talking about. Pure Vanilla didn’t need to know, yet he continued to walk down. He managed to find his favorite spot in the corner, and went unnoticed by Shadow Milk as he sat down. The person they’re talking about must mean a lot to him, probably one of the beasts. 

“Please, he probably doesn’t. His name is PURE Vanilla! What if he prefers men who are holy or some shit?” Pure Vanilla almost burst out laughing. Shadow Milk Cookie was talking about HIM?!?! He was the person who didn't want to hang out with him, and the cookie who Shadow Milk was holding in high regard. The cookie he’s holding hostage. Maybe he could use this knowledge to his advantage, especially if he was right.

“You’re overthinking this master.” Black Sapphire reassured, and so Pure Vanilla decided to make his presence known to them. 

“I don’t give a fuck. Me and Lily snuck out and almost failed all of our classes from lack of attendance for our entire academic lifespan.” He kept his head in his book, yet watched carefully through his staff. 

“Oh a bad boy,” Black Sapphire, acknowledging him in his chair before Shadow Milk spoke again.

“Yeah, yeah, enough about Lily.” His annoyance was apparent, only furthering Pure Vanilla’s theory. He wasn’t the only one who picked up on it either.

“Someone’s jealous.” Black Sapphire commented. Pure Vanilla could almost feel the glare coming off of Shadow Milk.

“You know White Lily is my best friend. I’ve known them since we were kids. Of course I’m going to talk about her a lot.” Pure Vanilla didn’t intend to speak again, especially about his past. Shadow Milk would purposely mess with his memories again, and White Lily is a prime suspect. 

“Ah best friend.” Shadow Milk started to float towards him, most likely to force him say more about his past. “You aren’t planning to marry her or anything, right? Asking for a friend.” 

A memory flashes through Pure Vanilla’s mind, right after the academy was destroyed from his and White Lily’s experiments. How he genuinely thought they would be married by now, but it just never worked out for them. He didn’t- couldn’t think about that here. His thoughts are always at risk of Shadow Milk’s influence. Behind the beast, Pure Vanilla could see Black Sapphire face palming. 

Pure Vanilla finally looked up from his book, towards the heterochromatic bright blue eyes, finally speaking. “You aren’t slick, Shadow Milk.” The shock that spread across his face was worth it. Pure Vanilla returns to his book, finally starting to read. Shadow Milk returned to his previous seat, him opening a portal to his other realm. Pure Vanilla couldn’t see what he was working on, nor did he care. 

The three of them stayed in the same room, silently working on something different each. The book Pure Vanilla picked was a historical fictional romance, yet any historical attempts at accuracy were twisted. The book, like everything else, was filled with lies. The attempts at the romantic plot were sped through, worsened by the lack of proper context being given. The book was a decent distraction though, it allowed Pure Vanilla the ability to not think about Shadow Milk, or about White Lily. 

A high voice broke into the room, Candy Apple Cookie with her high energy yelling and grabbing the attention of the three in the room. “Master Shadow Milk Cookie!!!” Pure Vanilla looked up at the teen cookie, noticing Shadow Milk throw what he was working on back through a portal. While he didn’t know exactly what Shadow Milk was working on, he could see the siblings whisper to each other. They talked for a moment, before she burst out in an excited yell

“There’s no need to be sad about him, master! I’m more than willing to play all the games with you!!” Pure Vanilla could feel her gaze on him, a gleeful smile on her face. “No need to pay attention to HIM.” The emphasis on the last word wasn’t lost on Pure Vanilla, yet he didn’t care. Candy Apple had never liked him, especially after he came here. 

“I’d rather play with my Nilly.” Shadow Milk’s nickname for Pure Vanilla wasn’t ignored. In fact, it pissed him off originally, only just now starting to grow on him. Yet it still felt childish. And Candy Apple has a similar distaste towards the nickname, yet for a completely different reason. 

“How about a game with everyone, would you be willing to participate, Pure Vanilla?” Black Sapphire offered, giving him a way out. To return to his room and avoid them. It wouldn’t matter though, Shadow Milk would force him, and he was starting to get bored as well. As if to prove his point, Shadow Milk agreed with Black Sapphire, excitement spreading through his body language.

“Fine. I just finished.” Pure Vanilla closed his book, the partial truth falling from his lips as easy as setting the book off to the side. He added on quickly, not wanting to waste magic on healing new wounds. “As long as I’m not put in any danger. There’s not much else to do here.”

“That’s the spirit! Now what should we play?” Shadow Milk’s immediate joy didn’t escape Pure Vanilla’s notice. 

Black Sapphire chimed in, “Since we must include everyone, perhaps a board game?” Candy Apple ran out of the room, being the most excited out of all of them. Pure Vanilla stood up, using his staff to see more clearly. Candy Apple ran back in, with multiple types of board games. 

“Perfect!” Shadow Milk exclaimed, choosing one of the games Candy Apple brought back. “I’ll set it up!” Pure Vanilla watched as the spire adjusted. A table and four chairs appeared, with each chair clearly created for each person. His chair was similar to the one he uses constantly in this room, with another meant for Shadow Milk right next to his. The game itself looked to be simple, yet Pure Vanilla had no clue how he would even start.

“I would ask for the rules, but I’m certain you would all lie to me” He said, sitting down in the chair Shadow Milk made for him. Candy Apple Cookie was practically bouncing in her chair, with Black Sapphire remaining calm. 

“The game is easy to understand, I’m sure you’ll catch on!” The jester voice next to him was… reassuring. And, he told the truth… The game wasn’t difficult by any means of the word. He could gain many of the rules just from the games set up, in fact it reminded him of a game he played as a child. He took in a deep breath, allowing himself to start to relax.

“Fine, let's just get this over with.” He says. The game is exactly how he thought it was, yet felt to be easier than it should be. It didn’t feel like a challenge at all, and Shadow Milk loves having a challenge. Even a minor one. Pure Vanilla saw Black Sapphire lean over to his sister, speaking just loud enough for him to hear.

“Candy Apple, is it just me, or is the master acting weird. He always wins, so why is he losing?” Pure Vanilla stayed quiet, continuing the game.

“I don’t know. Doesn’t he often do this when Pure Vanilla plays though?” Candy Apples observation made sense, and made the simple game they all were playing make even more sense. Especially as he was currently in a huge lead. Candy Apple spoke again, asking “Is it intentional?” 

Pure Vanilla didn’t know how to feel. Especially about… this. It just made the game seem more bland. 

“Maybe, but why?” Black Sapphire had a similar line of questioning that was plaguing Pure Vanilla. It didn’t make sense… Shadow Milk’s voice cut through his thoughts.

“Congratulations Nilly! You win!” He seemed… happy with this result. 

“So I did.” Pure Vanilla’s own monotone voice responded, “Are we done now.” He sounded rude, and tired. Yet he didn’t stand. He was still… bored. 

“I-” Shadow Milk started to protest before speaking again. “Well yes, but…” 

Pure Vanilla heard Black Sapphire speak quietly, “And here he goes, not wanting him to leave.” Curse this stupid empathy he shouldn’t feel towards Shadow Milk Cookie, out of all the beings the witches created. He was about to suggest another round when Candy Apple spoke up, pulling a much older game box.

“Soooo how about another game! A team one this time!!” A… team game? Can Shadow Milk actually play a team game properly? “Me and Black Sapphire versus Master and Pure Vanilla!” She exclaimed, blowing some of the dust off the box. Shadow Milks demeanor changed again, now ecstatic. 

“Ugh, that game looks like it hasn’t been touched in decades. Where did you find it?” Black Sapphire’s face scrunches up in disgust, and the game she pulled out was incredibly old. Pure Vanilla couldn’t see any resemblance of the game to any he’s played before.

“That’s because it hasn’t been touched in decades!” Candy Apple replied matter of factly, “Specifically since before Master was trapped. I’ve been waiting SO long to play this!!” 

“Fine, but this is the last game.” Pure Vanilla agreed reluctantly, or at least he told himself he agreed reluctantly. He could see Shadow Milk grin from beside him, and at least he won’t have to struggle as much with learning the rules.

“Aw, What a shame. One last game?” He floated closer to Pure Vanilla, staring. “I could play for hours with you.” Pure Vanilla looked away before responding.

“There are many books in my room I’d like to read.” He couldn’t think of any excuse, especially since he was the person who came down here. “And I’m getting tired.” He added. 

“Ah, fair enough.” Shadow Milk nudged Pure Vanilla, speaking again, “How about more tomorrow, eh?” 

“No promises.” Pure Vanilla said a little too quickly, surprising himself. Especially because his response meant that he may play with Shadow Milk, not just saying no. Candy Apple interrupted his thoughts, her voice giddy.

“Let's get this set up, and get started!” Pure Vanilla could see her physically jumping, and a quick affirmation from Black Sapphire let Pure Vanilla feel… calmer. The box itself was set on the table, and with a wave of his cane, Shadow Milk completely set it up. 

As the four of them played, Pure Vanilla was helped by Shadow Milk. His turn would pass slowly, since this game was much more complicated than the last one. Pure Vanilla was slowly understanding the rules. He had to admit, Shadow Milk was a… decent teacher, when he wasn’t spreading misinformation. 

“Hey look! Master’s winning again!” Candy Apple said to her brother, not trying to stay quiet. 

“Yes, we’re winning.” Shadow Milk replied matter of factly, as if it was inconceivable that he would lose. 

“He always wins,” Black Sapphire added, carefully watching the opposing team. “Either that, or he lets Pure Vanilla win.” 

“I don’t let him win.” Shadow Milk retorted immediately. The siblings spoke at the same time, saying one word.

“Liar.” Pure Vanilla agreed with them, especially with how the last game went. Candy Apple added onto her statement, a joy barely audible in her voice.

“We know you too well, Master Shadow Milk.” Black Sapphire nodded next to her, adding onto his sister's statement. 

“That’s, like, your whole thing.” 

“I don’t ALWAYS lie.” Shadow Milk protested. Pure Vanilla decided to speak up.

“You mostly do. And you have been letting me win every time we play.” Pure Vanilla’s eyes darted downwards, ashamed it took him so long to figure out what his host was doing. 

“I-” Shadow Milk started, “Well, I’d rather you enjoy your time here since you seem so-” He got interrupted, his actual feelings starting to shine through. 

“Apologies Master, but…” Black Sapphire looked… concerned for a moment. “Wouldn’t being guaranteed winning every time not be as fun? I mean…” He began to trail off as Shadow Milk spoke up.

“Nonsense!” He claimed, clearly thinking he was genuinely making Pure Vanilla’s stay, if you could call it that, better. He wasn’t.

“He has a point.” Pure Vanilla spoke again, looking back to the deceitful trio before focusing onto Shadow Milk. “Do you find board games fun if you know you’ll win every time without any use of magic?”

“Yesssss…?” Shadow Milk’s voice was hesitant, as if he was attempting to convince himself. 

“I know you’re lying.” Pure Vanilla spoke matter-of-factly, causing the siblings to snicker quietly.

“Our master is very rusty with his lies around him it seems.” Black Sapphire commented, earning a glare from his master in return.

“Whatever.” He said, the annoyance barely visible in his voice and face. He made a slight nod towards the siblings, “It’s your turn. Let's continue.”

“Agreed.” For once, Pure Vanilla genuinely agreed with the beast. They played for a bit, in mostly silence. It was Black Sapphire who spoke next.

“So, Pure Vanilla, our esteemed guest, tell us about yourself.” Pure Vanilla HATED being called a guest, especially since he felt more like a prisoner. 

“Why are we doing this?” Shadow Milk spoke up next to him, echoing his curiosity. 

“I’m just trying to ease the tension.” Black Sapphire explained. 

“Don’t you all already know everything about me?” Pure Vanilla’s voice is flat, the reminder that he needed to guard even his thoughts here hurt. “There’s not much else.” He added as an afterthought.

“Yes, but I was just trying to start a conversation-” His voice trailed off, before regaining its strength. “Y’know what, nevermind.” Pure Vanilla noticed the look Candy Apple gave her brother, before whispering something to him. 

“That was just sad.” Shadow Milk criticized. Black Sapphire had a look of suspicion on his face, before asking Candy Apple to meet him outside of the room. She nodded, and they both got up and left, leaving Shadow Milk and Pure Vanilla alone. Pure Vanilla spoke after a couple minutes.

“Now what. The other team left.” Shadow Milk began to float closer to Pure Vanilla.

“Hi.” he said, making intense eye contact. Pure Vanilla kept eye contact for a moment, before looking away. 

“This is awkward.” was his only reply, picking up the book he was reading through before.

“No no, I like it, don’t you?” Pure Vanilla didn’t reply to Shadow Milk's question, opening the book again. He was on the wrong page, but he didn’t care. He could feel his… host's stare seem to pierce him. 

“No, I don’t.” Pure vanilla responded. Apparently Shadow Milk didn’t appreciate this response, which he made abundantly clear by pushing Pure Vanilla’s book down. 

“Hi.” Witches, he was being annoying. Pure Vanilla wasn’t sure what he should do, but he clearly has no choice now. He was just like Shadow Milk’s minions, he had to listen to whatever Shadow Milk desired.

“Can I help you,” Pure Vanilla’s voice was tired, as an idea flashes through his head. He was a servant, after all. Might as well respond to Shadow Milk as such, “Master” He added sarcastically after a moment, the response from Shadow Milk practically immediately apparent as a blush spreads. 

“Oh” His only response, Pure Vanilla saw the opportunity to catch him off guard, and began to press him.

“Are you blushing? Do you always blush when you gain new servants, or…” Realization dawns onto Pure Vanilla, a final piece of the puzzle starts to click. He… he could use this… 

“I was- I didn’t-” Shadow Milk stuttered, before moving away and crossing his arms. “Go back to reading your book!” Pure Vanilla decided to risk it, it's not like he doesn’t know about everything in his life already.

“Is that why you’re jealous of White Lily? I mean, we did date before she left for the Faerie Kingdom.” Pure Vanilla purposely left out how it was MUCH before she left for Beast-Yeast, and how they broke up because they just weren’t compatible at that time. Lilies refuse to grow where you want to, after all…

“Jealous? Why would I be jealous?” Shadow Milk attempted to play it off as a joke, chuckling before he got serious, and even quiet for a moment. “You actually dated her…?” Pure Vanilla smiled, he was right. To top the test off, Shadow Milk didn’t know everything about him, his own head was at least slightly safe, and he planned to use this knowledge to his advantage.

“Of course I did! Before I founded the original Vanilla Kingdom.” Pure Vanilla smiled, adding sarcastically. “Surely the Fount of Knowledge knew that? Oh, I forgot, you’re the beast of deceit now.” Shadow Milk’s face fell more, shock clearly visible. Quietly, Pure Vanilla could hear him speak.

“I-... Where did you learn that name…” It wasn’t a question, but a demand. Pure Vanilla knew it, and he was willing to oblige for once.

“It wasn’t hard, especially between Elder Faerie’s story and the ‘Spire of Knowledge’.” 

“Ah, what a smart cookie you are.” Shadow Milk’s mask fixed itself, returning to his fake, overly sweet voice before lowering again. “However, I’d prefer you not refer to me as such again.” Pure Vanilla began reading his book once more, pleased with the knowledge he gained.

The duo stayed in the room alone, in silence for a little while longer. Pure Vanilla was the one who broke the quiet this time. 

“Where are the others? If they don’t come back soon, I’m going back to my room.” Shadow Milk was shocked, his response quietly slipping out before he could stop it.

“Wait, don’t.” Pure Vanilla had to admit to himself, it was… sorrowful. Pure Vanilla looked away, surprising himself with a cold reply.

“I said soon. I’m not leaving yet.” Pure Vanilla felt a small amount of joy when he watched Shadow Milk light up. 

“Good good!” It… really was him that Shadow Milk wanted to hang out with, wasn’t it…

“You aren’t slick, Shadow Milk.” He muttered, attempting to hide the blush he felt start to creep up by hiding in his book.

“Hmm? What do you mean Nilly?” Pure Vanilla could hear Shadow Milk coming closer, no doubt to annoy him more.

“You know what I mean.” He grumbles before looking outside through a window. “How late has it gotten?” Pure Vanilla’s voice is much softer, a much more curious tone replacing his monotone voice. Shadow Milk watches next to him. 

“It has gotten late… I’ll let you go to your room now, if that's what you wish.” Pure Vanilla looked over to see the jester watching the stars, and got up. 

“Then I shall take my leave.” Pure Vanilla began to walk up the stairs slowly, deciding to let Shadow Milk have a snippet of information. Turning to face the beast, he spoke “By the way, I’m bisexual.” He turns back around quickly, walking up. He could hear Shadow Milk below questioning how the information was relevant, before calling up after him.

“Anyway, sweet dreams Nilly!” 

Pure Vanilla almost tripped while running to his room, closing the door quickly behind him. He set his staff in the corner, practically throwing himself on his bed. He didn’t want to take his robes off tonight, he can change them out in the morning. Taking a final deep breath, he let himself fall into sleep. 

Chapter Text

Candy Apple had been having a blast! She was teamed up with her brother, and playing against her Master. This day had been a long time coming, yet something felt off. Black Sapphire knew this as well. 

“Candy Apple, may I talk to you alone?” Her brother stood up, starting to leave the room before turning back. “Just for a second.” He added reassuringly. Candy Apple got up to follow him, the siblings leaving the room.

They stopped once they were far enough away, safely at a spot where Master Shadow Milk couldn’t hear them. Black Sapphire spoke first, “You thinking what I’m thinking? Master is acting weird, like SUPER weird.” Candy Apple nodded as he continued. “And it's all that vanilla cookies fault, you don’t think he-”

“We should get him out.” Candy Apple interrupted, making her feelings clear. “Master isn’t paying attention to me anymore.” She added the last part quickly. 

“As weird as I find your obsession, I agree. Yet wouldn’t that be going against our masters orders?” Black Sapphire brought up. Candy Apple looked away, also conflicted.

“And… Master would be sad… But he’d pay attention to me again…” She was going through a minor list of pros and cons, before throwing her hands to her head in frustration. “AUAHHHH Why is this so difficult!”

“Exactly, but I doubt this is good for Master. That cookie is up to something, I know it.” Her brother clarifies, and Candy Apple agrees. If they were right, Master Shadow Milk would be safe, and if they… no, they were right. 

“Maybe if we forcibly separate the two of them, then Master would be happy again!” She declares. Black Sapphire stayed unsure though, and made his reasons clear.

“This could go very wrong… I’m not sure about this.” Candy Apple gave her brother a stare. She couldn’t do this alone, especially if she’s going to help her Master.

“Well we can’t do nothing!” She pointed out, her voice pitching up in frustration.

“Fair point. But we could get into deep trouble.” Black Sapphire pointed out, continuing with his thought process. “If we upset Master… we’re practically crumbled. But this is for his own good.” His voice became resolved, prepared for any consequences.

“I don’t care! I’ll do anything!!” She yelled out before regaining her composure. Candy Apple lowers the volume of her voice back to a whisper, “We have to get Master back to normal!” 

“What do we do? Do we just… kidnap Pure Vanilla and take him far away?” Candy Apple pondered Black Sapphire’s suggestion, before coming up with an easier one. 

“What if we just show him the exit and force him to leave?” She asked, wondering about her brother's input. His face lit up, enjoying her suggestion.

“That would be much easier! And I’d doubt he’d hesitate once to leave!” Candy Apple grinned deviously, the plan was set.

“We’d just need to be careful to make sure Master doesn’t find out!” She exclaimed, and Black Sapphire nodded. 

“Let's wait until he goes to his room and is alone.” Black Sapphire declared, and Candy Apple knew why. Sneaking the recluse cookie out without their master knowing would be the easiest once the spire was asleep, and while Shadow Milk was asleep as well. The siblings head back into the room, seeing Shadow Milk Cookie alone. 

“What took you two so long.” Their master didn’t give them a chance to respond, speaking quickly. “It doesn’t matter. Pure Vanilla already went back to his room, so I shall do the same. Clean the living room before you go to bed, don’t mess with the game.” He gave them an order before floating upwards to his own room. Candy Apple could hear her brother release a breath he was holding as they both got to work. They finished the job quickly, each retiring to their respective rooms. 

Candy Apple couldn’t fall asleep, so she paced around her room. She sometimes would watch the clock tick, other times working on her disguises, and also practiced her fighting skills. She tried to fall asleep, yet couldn’t calm herself from being so nervous about the planned events. Finally, the time hit. She left her room, gently knocking before sneaking into her brother’s room. 

“Black Sapphire, wake up!” She whispered, shaking him by his shoulder. “Master and Pure Vanilla have gone to sleep!” He woke up much too slowly for her taste, sitting up.

“Ughhh Candy Apple?” He brushed his hair back with his hand, remembering before she could scold him. “Right… the plan.” 

“We need to be quick, let’s go!” Candy Apple made sure urgency was in her voice, running out the room without checking to make sure Black Sapphire was following her. 

“Master has eyes all over the place, we need to try not to get caught.” Candy Apple could hear the radio host’s voice next to her, a confirmation that he was following her, she pivoted away from the typical hallway, towards a different area. 

“Right! I know all the best shortcuts!” She boasted, leading Black Sapphire through the spots that Shadow Milk never looked. 

“Alright.” He was following close behind, and Candy Apple could feel the judgemental looks he gave her as they passed by a couple of her shrines to their master. Then they came to her personal favorite spot, Candy Apple jumping and letting the gravity pull her upwards.

“Let's go let’s go!” She yelled quietly, having fun and being excited. 

“You have WAY too much energy.” Black Sapphire steps into the same reversed gravity field, falling upwards with her. “It’s the middle of the night.”

“Of course I do!” Candy Apple protests. “After tonight, Master Shadow Milk Cookie will return to his normal chaotic self!” 

“Fair point, but if you rush and be loud he’s bound to wake up!” He scolded his sister, both of them stepping out of the reversed gravity onto one of the top floors. She stuck her tongue out at him before he spoke once more. “Come on, stay on task.” They approached Pure Vanilla’s room, which was unfortunately at the end of the hall. 

“I am on task. Let’s wake Pure Vanilla up and lead him out!” Candy Apple proudly proclaimed, now behind her brother. 

“Okay.” Black Sapphire opened the door a crack, looking into his room. 

“Well?” Candy Apple stuck her head underneath Black Sapphire’s, curiosity getting the better of her. Black Sapphire pushed her back with his hand so he could see better before speaking.

“I think he’s sleeping. You’re loud, you wake him up.” He pushes Candy Apple in, a smile spreading across her face.

“On it.” She said deviously. Running towards the sleeping cookie, she jumped. “Wakey WAKEY!” She called as she landed, being very successful. The reaction was imminent.

“What, who?” The blond cookie sat up in a panic as Candy Apple got off his bed. Black Sapphire stepped in to ensure he didn’t panic. 

“Well, at least she’s good for something.” He mutters before speaking louder to Pure Vanilla. “It’s just us, Pure Vanilla Cookie.” He gives a bow, and elbowing Candy Apple to do the same. 

“What?” Pure Vanilla is squinting at the duo, “What’s going on? Shadow Milk isn’t forcing me to play another game again, is he?” Candy Apple immediately spoke up, answering his question.

“No! Quite the opposite!” Candy Apple starts to yell, before quieting down. “He wants you to leave the spire for a while!” The lie falls from her lips as she grabs Pure Vanilla’s hand and pulls him out of his bed. 

“Absolutely! And we’re here to escort you out.” Black Sapphire confirmed, as the siblings pulled the healer out of his room. Pure Vanilla allowed her drag him through the spire, the three of them moving quickly through the hallways. 

“We’re taking you right to the entrance, and then you can decide where to go from there!” Candy Apple explained as the trio got to the first floor. She realized a hiccup in their plan a little too late, what if Pure Vanilla DIDN’T want to leave?

“Yes yes, I’m sure your friends would love to see you, why not go visit them.” Black Sapphire offered. Hopefully that convinces him to go, and stay gone. 

“Right…” Pure Vanilla mutters, still confused.

“Now run along, we have things to do.” Black Sapphire opens the front door, Candy Apple pushing the cookie out.

“Yes! See ya, don’t come back!” She was a little forceful at the end, shutting the door behind him. By giving a quick peek through the window, Candy Apple saw him start walking on the path away, albeit slowly. “Welp, that’s done. I’m going to bed now!” 

“That was so easy!” Black Sapphire let out a quick laugh, the siblings giving each other a high five. They walked back to their separate rooms, Black Sapphire calling out goodnight before he shut his door. Finally, as Candy Apple laid down in her bed, she was able to close her eyes and fall into a peaceful sleep. 

Chapter Text

Pure Vanilla stood on the doorstep of the spire, confused. He was just pushed out of the spire, assumedly on Shadow Milk’s orders. Perhaps this was just another game, or a trick. The least likely situation is that he was a toy to him, and Shadow Milk just got bored. He wasn’t going to let this opportunity slide. Pure Vanilla stepped forwards, forgetting how rough the terrain outside was. 

“Ok then… I might as well try to find the village again.” He muttered to himself, slowly beginning to make his way forward. He stumbles, automatically reaching for his staff only to be met with nothing. “Shit. I forgot my staff back in my room…” He considered returning to his room to grab it, but he was finally free. He can’t let this opportunity go to waste, not when he can finally tell his friends to leave this cursed continent. “I’ll be fine for a while.” He tells himself, finding a stick that was just barely long enough for him to use. 

It was a slow process, moving along the path. Pure Vanilla kept tripping over small sticks, small rocks in the road, and of course over nothing. He could barely see his own feet, he could be going in circles for all he knew. “I have to be close to the village by now, right?” He struggles to keep moving, the lack of sleep finally hitting him. He couldn’t just stop, he was still in danger of the monster. 

“Why didn’t I grab my staff…” He muttered, sunlight finally breaking through the treetops. He’s been walking for so long, is Pure Vanilla finally somewhere? He didn’t care anymore. He’d willingly go back to the spire by this point, maybe he would finally be able to see White Lily again, and tell her what happened… how he got…-

“Pure Vanilla Cookie, OVER HERE!!” The voice snaps Pure Vanilla from his thought process, causing him to look around. 

“Oh my witches! Pure Vanilla Cookie, we’ve been looking for you for a while now!” The two voices, they sounded like Gingerbrave and Strawberry Cookie, but that can’t be… they were in the village last time he saw them… 

“Is that…? Gingerbrave, Strawberry Cookie?” Pure Vanilla was squinting, barely being able to see two different forms moving forward, towards him. An anxious moment passed by, what if it was Black Sapphire and Candy Apple, tricking him to go back to the spire before he could speak to White Lily… 

“Yes, it’s us!” Pure Vanilla could hear Gingerbrave’s voice, as he felt the small hand grab his own. “Are you ok? Where is your staff?” The questions came from the young cookie, at a pace Pure Vanilla considered much too fast. 

“I… forgot it…” He says the truth feeling foreign on after so long of being guarded. “Are you guys ok? And… where am I” The last question worried him, especially if he was much closer to the spire than he expected. 

“Well, you made it to the town at least. And we’re ok!” Pure Vanilla let out a sigh of relief, he was gone. He was no longer trapped in that cursed spire. Yet Gingerbrave spoke again, adding onto his previous statement. “But we were so worried about you!” The guilt hit him, as he pushed it down like he had trained to do while in the spire. A thought hit him, could he… see through his staff again? Despite being so far away, he wanted to try. He let the children lead him towards the main village, letting his senses go through his staff. It worked, he was able to see and hear what was happening in his room, through the staff he left in the corner. He saw Shadow Milk enter his now empty room, seeing the absence. 

Pure Vanilla, through his staff, was able to see his reactions. The panic Shadow Milk showed as he ran around the room, and Pure Vanilla could hear the beast’s voice. “Where is he? He can’t have left, he wouldn’t have-” Pure Vanilla was brought back to his actual body, finally responding to Gingerbrave. 

“That's a relief.” He said, leaving his eyes closed. A lie fell from his lips right after, “I’m fine.” He kept his eyes closed, returning his senses back to the spire. Immediately Shadow Milk’s voice hit his ears. 

“Black Sapphire. Candy Apple.” His voice was laced with venom, Shadow Milk’s anger apparent. Pure Vanilla reopened his eyes, seeing the children looking up to him in… worry? Pure Vanilla wasn’t entirely sure. 

“We’re glad you’re ok, but…” Strawberry Cookie's voice was gentle, a worry able to be heard in her voice.

“What’s with the outfit?” Gingerbrave said, motioning to the dark blue and gold robes he was wearing. Pure Vanilla looked down, allowing the shame to slightly show.

“It was…” Pure Vanilla thought back to when he first arrived at the spire, right after he fell into a yogurt river that Shadow Milk left all around the spire. There were many different options that Shadow Milk provided, almost all of them were jester themed, like what he typically wears, and one was a maid dress. “...the best choice. I’ve been in a different area for a long while.” He finishes his statement, deciding it best to not dwell on it for any longer. 

“I think you look cool!” Gingerbrave claimed enthusiastically, “But it’s not very… you,” he added as an afterthought. The dark clothes are a stark contrast against his typical light colors he typically used. 

“I don’t mind the new outfit, it’s fine. Much harder to get dirty, especially since I can’t see well right now.” His voice came through surprisingly defensive towards the outfit, before realizing how he almost revealed that he… couldn’t actually see. They didn’t need to know how he was partially blind, no one needed to know that. He could hear the two cookies talking to each other. He takes advantage, looking back through his staff to the spire. Shadow Milk has the siblings in his room, and clearly he was asking them something. 

“He must have gotten tired of your games Master, and… well… you.” Black Sapphire said carefully, the last sentence being said slowly and carefully. Pure Vanilla could see Shadow Milk’s reaction; he was pissed.

“Tired of me…?” The question came slowly, much to calm compared to his body language. It was… terrifying. 

“Ah don’t take it out on me master! It was just an idea!” Black Sapphire, the cookie who was typically calm and composed, now was terrified. Clearly panicking. 

“Plus we can all play together, like before!” Candy Apple had a similar feeling of panic, yet she was masking it well, adding an attempt to comfort at the end. “It’ll be ok master.” It didn’t work. Shadow Milk just seemed to get angrier at each passing statement, and Pure Vanilla could see the duo just… give up. They whispered something to each other, and Shadow Milk swung his cane. The two cards were snatched in the air, getting shoved into a nearby drawer. Pure Vanilla could hear the shocked yells of the two, quickly being silenced as Shadow Milk slammed the drawer shut. He just floats around right after, seeming to have no purpose. Pure Vanilla had to admit, it was kinda… sad.

“Pure Vanilla Cookie? You’ve been quiet,” The young cookie's voice brought his senses back to his body, “Is everything ok?” Guilt bloomed in his chest, another lie leaving his lips so he could comfort the two children.

“Yes, I’m fine.” He wasn’t fine, Pure Vanilla didn’t know when he would feel fine again. “I should get rest, I’ve been walking for a long time…” He averts his eyes, adding on at the end, “And then I’ll need to get my staff again…” 

“Absolutely!” Gingerbrave’s was full of optimism, just as Pure Vanilla remembered. The young cookie began pulling the ancient towards an inn, “C’mon, let's get you to where we’ve been staying!” Pure Vanilla finally allowed him to rest, taking a quick look back to the spire out of curiosity. Shadow Milk sat onto his bed, a unique look on his face Pure Vanilla hadn’t seen before. 

When Pure Vanilla returned his senses back to his own body, he was in a small simple room, with a much more humble type of bed than he was used to. It was… comforting… “Thank you Gingerbrave…” He meant his appreciation, as he sat down on his bed, his body grateful for the rest.

“Make sure to rest lots! Sleep well!” Gingerbrave stayed cheerful, closing his door, leaving the tainted hero alone to his thoughts. It was… almost suffocating. Pure Vanilla would’ve thought his time alone in the spire would’ve… prepared him for being alone again. And yet, he never felt as alone there as he did now. Maybe it was because his staff kept watch of him, or maybe it was because Shadow Milk kept watch on him as well. It was… too strange for him. He looked back through his staff before going to sleep, watching Shadow Milk Cookie. 

The beast of Deceit was on his bed, staring at the ceiling. It looked like he was… sad, lonely even. Pure Vanilla could understand him, perhaps too much… especially since he’s felt the same. Pure Vanilla only had the other ancients he could be around with no worries, everyone else will grow old and pass. Not only that, both him and White Lily were… gone. Practically dead for centuries. He’s spent so many years missing out on experiences everyone else got to enjoy, and his own people are now alone. He can’t just leave Shadow Milk though, not right now… not when Pure Vanilla can learn more about him and his past.

*~With Gingerbrave and Strawberry Cookie~*

Gingerbrave came back into their room, smiling. Strawberry Cookie couldn’t help but be worried for Pure Vanilla Cookie. He seemed… off. Gingerbrave sat on his bed, his optimism still shining through. 

“You think… Pure Vanilla is ok?” Strawberry finally asked after what felt like hours. “He was gone for a while…” She’s concerned, especially with how secretive Pure Vanilla seemed to be. It was… much more different than how he was before he went looking for more knowledge. He didn’t even say where he was going.

“He’s a little off, but I think he will be ok! We’re all stronger together anywhere!” Gingerbrave’s enthusiasm is contagious, it always has been. 

“Right! I’m still worried though.” She explains, getting herself ready to go to sleep as well.

“It’s going to be ok, Strawberry! It always is!!” He gives her a huge smile, raising his cane. Strawberry nods in agreement. 

“Let’s hope for the best!” She said, before thinking about how strange Pure Vanilla seemed when they found him. “Also, has Pure Vanilla always had trouble seeing? I feel like that’s new.” 

“I’m… not sure. He’s never told us that, but maybe that staff he carries has something to do with it. He did mention needing to get it tomorrow.” Gingerbrave pointed out.

“Well, we can’t do much, except making sure we can help him where we can! Especially if his sight isn’t good.” Strawberry felt Gingerbrave’s enthusiasm and excitement infect her, pushing her worries back. 

“Exactly! Now we should get to bed as well, we have a bright, new day ahead of us!” Gingerbrave declared, laying down and throwing a blanket on. Strawberry Cookie did the same, facing away from him, letting herself relax and eventually fall asleep.

*~With Truthless Recluse~*

It was… quiet. It took Pure Vanilla a moment to realize where he was, and why sunlight was actually streaming into his room. His curiosity won, him looking through his staff once more to see his room. Shadow Milk was still there, still laying on his bed. He probably spent the entire night there… but why. Shadow Milk knows he’s blind… right? But if he didn’t, then… Pure Vanilla will consider that later. He grabs his cape and hat, muttering to himself, “Time to head back, I need to see.” 

He leaves his room, using the walls and railings to guide himself downstairs to the main room in the inn, very slowly. He heard Strawberries voice first, before he felt her gently take his hand to help. “Pure Vanilla! I hope you slept alright!” Pure Vanilla hated this feeling, this… helplessness. Especially when he needed the children's help just to leave the inn.

“Good morning Pure Vanilla!” Gingerbrave looked to be eating, and he was so happy. Pure Vanilla couldn’t understand why he was so… happy. 

“Good morning Gingerbrave and Strawberry Cookie. I am grateful for the room, however I must return to where I was. I should head back now” He knew he sounded melancholy, he knew his return would also take a long time, and he may crumble on the way…

“Return…? Be careful, Pure Vanilla!” Gingerbrave’s voice was still painfully cheerful, but there was a hint of disappointment. “We got so worried when you disappeared for so long…” It was his fault they were worried, and now because he’s leaving again, they’re going to be worried once more.

“I’ll be fine.” He attempts to ease their concerns, yet he immediately trips on the hem of his robe, falling. “Mostly fine.” He corrects himself, getting mad at his lack of being able to do ANYTHING.

“If… you insist…” Gingerbrave was concerned once more, and Pure Vanilla could feel Strawberry help him up.

“We should help escort you, at least part of the way!” These kids, Pure Vanilla just couldn't understand. They were cheerful, always trying to help out. They didn’t deserve the world he helped create… 

“Agreed! You’ve already been through so much, we must help you!” Pure Vanilla couldn’t understand why Gingerbrave was always so eager to help. It didn’t matter in the end, everyone eventually leaves and crumbles. But he doesn’t turn the children's help down. He… accepts it.

“Fine… but once we get close, head back to the village.” Pure Vanilla is led out of the inn and village. As they travel, he changes his wording. “Actually, leave Beast-Yeast and return to the Cookie Kingdom.” Both Gingerbrave and Strawberry Cookie gave each other looks. Gingerbrave was the first of the two to speak.

“L-leave? I mean- if you insist, but… are you sure?” 

“Yes, I am certain.” For once, Pure Vanilla was in fact certain. If he pushed them out of Beast-Yeast, sent them back to Crispia, they would be safe from the other beast cookies. He could do what he needed to with Shadow Milk Cookie… and trick him to get him to be sealed again… so why did the idea of doing so… confuse him?

“Alright…” Pure Vanilla could hear the mixed feelings in Gingerbrave’s voice, and the conflict. He could hear the children whisper among themselves, as they kept getting closer to the spire… He couldn’t lead them all the way to the spire, but it’ll take them a little before they even get close. Pure Vanilla has some time to look through his staff, to at least check on Shadow Milk. 

It wasn’t interesting. Shadow Milk was still on his bed, but he was facing away from Pure Vanilla’s staff. He couldn’t tell if the beast cookie was asleep or awake, but he was in his bed. Gingerbrave brought him back to his body. 

“Beast-Yeast is such an interesting place!” He was trying to stay positive, most likely trying to convince Pure Vanilla to let them stay.

“Yes, I guess it is. But incredibly dangerous.” Pure Vanilla opened his eyes, squinting to get a better grasp on his surroundings. They were starting to get close to Shadow Milk’s Spire, he recognized the difference in the flora. 

“There’s nothing we can’t defeat together!” Gingerbrave claimed, but he was wrong. Shadow Milk, Dark Enchantress- the children shouldn’t have to fight them. This should be a responsibility for the adults. Pure Vanilla knew what he had to do, as he stopped suddenly on the path, confusing the both of them.

“Right… When you head back to Crispia, I need you to do something for me. Prepare the kingdoms for war.” He felt guilty. Pure Vanilla shouldn’t be asking this of kids, but if he just told them to pass the message, the adults can take over, he hoped. 

“What.” Gingerbrave’s voice didn’t have the same hope, it was instead shocked. 

“For Dark Enchantress Cookie. Make sure the kingdom's leaders know, and make sure your kingdom is ready as well.” Pure Vanilla hoped the leaders would listen, and he would take care of everything here in Beast-Yeast with White Lily. Strawberry Cookie gave Gingerbrave a concerned look, both of them trying to pull Pure Vanilla forwards, while he refused to move. 

“But… Ok…” Strawberry said slowly. They both notice his refusal to move, confused.

“Pure Vanilla, we’re almost there…” Gingerbrave points out as Pure Vanilla still refused to budge an inch more along the path. Pure Vanilla couldn’t, in good conscience, lead them to the spire, so he shook his head instead. Thankfully, they seemed to understand. “Make sure you stay safe, Pure Vanilla…” 

“I will. Get back to safety.” His voice remained calm, taking a hesitant step on his own. “And go back, now.” Pure Vanilla turns around, watching them leave slowly.

“Ok!” Gingerbrave’s voice regained his usual confidence, as he waved to Pure Vanilla. The healer smiled to himself, at least they will be safe from Shadow Milk. He turns back around, finishing the trek to the Spire of Deceit, carefully making his way on the path. He finally saw it… turning around once more to ensure the children didn’t follow him. It doesn’t matter much however, he can’t see far anyway. 

He looked back to the door of the Spire, taking in another deep breath, and knocking on the door.

Chapter Text

Pure Vanilla doesn’t need to wait long at the doorstep. While he could just open the door, he felt it would be rude. He was able to hear footsteps arriving, opening the door. It was Black Sapphire who opened the door, thankfully. 

“I need my staff.” Pure Vanilla’s voice was flat, purposely so. The more emotion he showed in the spire, the more ammunition Shadow Milk and his minions had over him. 

“Go ahead!” Black Sapphire’s voice was cheerful and welcoming, yet Pure Vanilla could hear him, right after he passed, “Damn it… he’s back.” Of course, those two didn’t want him here, and apparently the spire didn’t either. He’s barely a couple steps in, and he almost trips over his own robe. He took in a deep breath, ensuring his voice remained calm, and asked Black Sapphire.

“Is Shadow Milk within earshot? Or is he still in m- his room?” He almost revealed he knew where Shadow Milk was, which he shouldn’t know right now. Unfortunately, Black Sapphire caught his slip.

“Most likely, yes. He’s likely still in your room.” 

“Do you think he’d be able to hear me if I yelled? It’s difficult to navigate this spire blind.” Pure Vanilla decided it wasn’t worth the trouble to keep his secret, especially since he returned just for his staff. 

“I think so…” Black Sapphire confirmed tentatively. That was enough Pure Vanilla to scream from the top of his lungs.

“STOP SKULKING! I’D LIKE TO RETURN TO MY ROOM WITHOUT CRUMBLING!” He kept his eyes closed, not bothering looking through his staff. It didn’t take long until he felt watched by a multitude of eyes. Opening his eyes to see the familiar colors of Shadow Milk nearby, Pure Vanilla spoke up again, keeping his voice neutral. “I need my staff. I use it to see.”

“I-oh… so you didn’t come back for me…” Shadow Milk’s voice was opposite, Pure Vanilla could hear the clear disappointment within his voice. It just felt… sad. 

“You really are lonely…” The words slipped out by accident, Pure Vanilla didn’t mean to say it. So he covered as much as he could, “I’m here to stay…”

“I’m fine, I am NOT lonely!” Shadow Milk immediately countered, before admitting much quieter, quiet enough that Pure Vanilla was barely able to hear it. “But I… do want you to stay, so…” 

“Shadow Milk.” Pure Vanilla started, no use in keeping his blindness a secret anymore, or how he is even able to see the world around him. “I can see through my staff, no matter how far away I am. And it’s in the corner of my room, where I can see the entirety of my room.” There was a moment of silence, for once. He’s never heard Shadow Milk be at a loss for words. 

“That’s embarrassing.” He finally says, breaking the silence, and Pure Vanilla’s calm finally breaks with it.

“What’s more embarrassing is that I still can’t get to my room without help.” His frustration with his disability is clear, between his voice and his body language. He felt Shadow Milk take his arm, being surprisingly gentle. It was still rough, but not as rough as Pure Vanilla was expecting. 

“I’ll help you.” Shadow Milk did as he said, helping to take Pure Vanilla up the stairs and through the corridors. Pure Vanilla could hear Black Sapphire following them, and his door being opened.

“Thank you.” He finally said, immediately heading to the corner and grabbing his staff. Relief spread, his voice not even attempting to hide his feelings. “Much better.” He was able to see the beast of deceit and his minion, both standing near the door. 

“This is weird…” Black Sapphire commented, meanwhile Shadow Milk did not look to be too happy. 

“You're welcome.” He finally replied to Pure Vanilla’s gratitude. Pure Vanilla didn’t respond, only heading straight to the drawer Shadow Milk was keeping the other sibling. 

“Black Sapphire, can you take her?” Pure Vanilla holds the card Candy Apple was in, handing her over to Black Sapphire after he nodded. “I’d like to have a chat with Shadow Milk.”

“Yes sir!” He walks out, closing the door. Pure Vanilla grabs Shadow Milk’s hand, pulling him towards his bed. He sat down, watching the beast cookie.

“What is it?” Shadow Milk asks, he’s clearly still taken by surprise.

“Why are you doing this?” Pure Vanilla was frustrated, and he just wanted answers. He kept explaining, not letting Shadow Milk start with his lies. “The letting me win games; letting me go; why haven’t you taken my soul jam; is that not what you want?” 

“Ha!” Shadow Milk’s immediate reaction was to laugh, “YOUR soul jam? Funny joke.” He laughs for a little longer, Pure Vanilla’s expression just getting angrier. “And yes, I DO want my soul jam.” 

“Either way, you could just take it. It’s not hard to steal something from a blind man.” Pure Vanilla’s voice was calming down now, he was mainly confused now. His voice changed, finally returning to his more caring side. “Also, I saw how lonely you were, especially yesterday and last night…” 

“You barely know me. You will NEVER know me. Don’t act like you do.” The venom in Shadow Milk’s voice returned, his anger fully revealed. Pure Vanilla didn’t fully let up however. 

“I’m not pretending to know you, I just want answers.” Pure Vanilla just sighs, he won’t get anywhere with Shadow Milk. He knew this would happen, like it always does. “Although you could just be lying like normal. It feels like you’re lying to yourself as well…” 

“Hah! You never know.” Shadow Milk has moved closer, his typical wild grin on his face. Pure Vanilla stayed silent, not giving Shadow Milk anymore satisfaction with his emotions. Shadow Milk moved away, a glare being what Pure Vanilla earned for his lack of reaction. Finally, Shadow Milk spoke again, asking his guest. “Also, why did you even leave?”

Pure Vanilla was frustrated with the lack of answers he got, so he made that clear, his face deadpan and his voice flat. “I was sleep walking and fell out.” It was a lie, a horrible one at that. For once, Pure Vanilla didn't mind lying, but Shadow Milk knew immediately. 

“I’m not a fool Nilly, but hey, you’re at least learning my ways!” Shadow Milk’s glare faded, his signature grin returning to his face.

“I know. Yet you refuse to tell me anything, then I don’t need to tell you anything.” Pure Vanilla made his intentions clear. He would only give information if he got information in return. 

“...Fair.” That was the only response from the other cookie. Neither moved from their spots, which made sense in hindsight. The silence felt like it was suffocating to Pure Vanilla, he needed something to happen. Silence was never, truly a good thing, and he really just wanted to learn more about Shadow Milk… unfortunately. He can’t stand this anymore, so he stood up.

“If you promise to not hold back, would you like to play a game of chess?” Pure Vanilla needs SOMETHING to do, otherwise he’ll go insane from the tension alone. He looks over to the jester, seeing a small smile spread. 

“Okay, but if you lose then don’t be sad~!” His voice was lower than what Pure Vanilla had gotten used to, and it sounded… nice. He sat down at the table, waiting for Shadow Milk to join him.

“It’ll take more than losing a game of chess to make me sad.” Pure Vanilla could feel a smile start to creep on his lips, he didn’t want to be alone, not yet. 

“Hmm, really?” Shadow Milk was moving forwards, before seemingly remembering something. “Wait, I just remembered Candy Apple is still a card. I guess I falsely accused them of kicking you out yesterday.” He watched as Shadow Milk snapped his fingers, and the guilt of the lie Pure Vanilla told started to weigh on him. “Let’s play!” He waved his cane, creating the chess set and setting it on the table. 

“Agreed. Let's start the game.” Pure Vanilla kept his voice neutral, mostly out of fear that if he didn’t, the guilt would be revealed. He… doesn’t like lying, or how it felt. As they were setting up the board, he noticed Shadow Milk about to give him the white pieces. “I’ll take the black pieces, you can move first.” 

Shadow Milk adjusts the pieces he gives Pure Vanilla, letting Pure Vanilla move second as he requested. After setting the game up, Shadow Milk starts the game, moving first. Pure Vanilla thinks carefully, moving his own. Shadow Milk moves almost immediately, a contrast to Pure Vanilla’s carefully thought out moves.

“You’re very rusty, maybe I shouldn’t have let you win so much.” Shadow Milk’s voice was calmer than normal, he is beating Pure Vanilla, as another piece gets taken. He was right, Pure Vanilla was rusty. It’s been a while since Pure Vanilla has even thought about chess before the spire.

“I am,” he admits, “yet being practically dead for centuries tends to do that to a person.” The truth slips out, unintentionally. It’s been a while since he had to tell the truth, especially after he came to the spire. 

“Excuses! I was sealed in a tree and I play jussstttt fine!” Shadow Milk was laughing, still having a clear advantage over Pure Vanilla. 

“There’s a difference between being dead and being very much alive, just trapped.” Pure Vanilla pointed out, managing to take out another piece of Shadow Milk’s. 

“Neither of us could play chess in those situations, so I’d say it's even.” Shadow Milk declared, his voice confident. There was an opening that Pure Vanilla took, setting Shadow Milk into check.

“Agreed, it is even.” He held a smile in his abilities, even as Shadow Milk blocked his attack.

“See~! We can agree on something.” 

“I never said we couldn’t agree on some things. Clearly, you like actually playing chess.” Pure Vanilla motioned to the game they were actively in the middle of, as Shadow Milk took another one of his pieces. 

“I enjoy playing with you.” He claimed quietly, so quietly that Pure Vanilla almost missed him saying that. 

“I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t having fun.” He responded, just as quietly. He was letting his act break for once. Maybe it would be for the best to be honest… 

“Eh, you know I like a good lie.” Shadow Milk moved another piece, enacting a trap that Pure Vanilla fell for. He moves his queen to put Pure Vanilla in checkmate, his grin growing. “What a surprise… HAH!” 

“It was nice actually being able to play Shadow Milk.” Pure Vanilla states, deciding to let the truth slip out, “It’s… nice spending time with you.” His statement caught the beast off guard, which wasn’t his intention. 

“Oh- I… Well, it's nice spending time with you too.” Shadow Milk is… much different in private. He typically keeps his act, the cruel jester, a beast of deceit. Yet once he believes no one is watching, he lowers it. Pure Vanilla still doesn’t know much about him, but he does know that Shadow Milk is… lonely. He’s not evil as everyone thought, just… broken. If Pure Vanilla could help him, he will.

He looks out the window, the sky seemingly shifting between night and day. He was able to see the village from here, despite the distance. “It’s nice…” He said, letting his sorrow and worries rest in his voice. He couldn’t decide if he was saying this towards his own feelings, or to Shadow Milk. It mattered little to him, and possibly to Shadow Milk. The two remained in silence, the only change was Shadow Milk moving to stand, well float, next to him. After a time passed, Pure Vanilla finally spoke up. “I don’t know if I fully understand, or if I ever will. Yet even so, I don’t plan on leaving. You don’t need to worry about me…” He spoke the truth once more, it felt nice too. 

“Why not join me? You’re already staying anyway.” Shadow Milk’s voice was surprisingly soft. Pure Vanilla doesn’t believe he’s ever heard him sound so… gentle. He knew the invitation was to change, to relinquish the truth entirely, yet he couldn’t… not when there’s so much he still needs to do. Maybe one day… maybe he can lie to himself for the night.

“Ok.” Pure Vanilla stands up, grabbing his staff. Just for tonight, he’ll stay next to Shadow Milk. He attempts to look into his eyes, a feat a little easier said than done. In response, Shadow Milk moved to stare into the eyes on his staff. Pure Vanilla obliged, closing his physical eyes to look through his staff. He could see the magical light blue and golden tint, being able to stare into Shadow Milk’s own eyes. It doesn’t take long for Shadow Milk to avert his own eyes, looking over to the side, and so Pure Vanilla opens his own. 

“It’s been a long couple days, and I doubt you were able to sleep much last night.” Pure Vanilla moved over, closer to Shadow Milk.

“I- true.” Shadow Milk didn’t attempt to fight the claim Pure Vanilla made, nor did he move away from Pure Vanilla.

“Let’s get some rest, Shadow Milk, we’ll have time to play more games later.” Pure Vanilla reached for Shadow Milk’s hand, mostly moving on instinct rather than an actual plan. Shadow Milk lets him take his hand, and lets Pure Vanilla pull him from the window. He sits down onto his bed, taking his hat off and setting his staff off to the side. Shadow Milk set his own cane on the other side of his staff. Pure Vanilla removes his cape last, folding it neatly before setting it on his bedside table. 

Shadow Milk sat on the bed, and Pure Vanilla laid down. He didn’t know why he wasn’t kicking Shadow Milk out of his bed, in contrast he had basically invited him. The words seem to slip out, Pure Vanilla couldn’t stop them. “I still won’t wear the maid dress though, no matter the game.” 

Shadow Milk didn’t respond, eventually laying down as well. He’s clearly uncomfortable, but not leaving. His eyes are looking away. Pure Vanilla couldn’t help but notice the eyes in his hair were all staring at him. Pure Vanilla moved onto his back, closing his eyes. He can look through his staff if needed, and based on his actions so far, Pure Vanilla didn’t think he would harm him… If he was any other cookie, then he was sure he would've crumbled almost immediately. He could feel the bed's slight movement from Shadow Milk’s breathing. 

“Relax. It’s not like I can hurt you.” Pure Vanilla kept his breathing calm and steady, an attempt to help calm Shadow Milk.

“I AM relaxed.” Shadow Milk’s voice came from beside Pure Vanilla, the breathing was still hastened. 

“Your breathing says otherwise.” Pure Vanilla replied.

“I don’t see what you mean, I’m fine.” Shadow Milk’s voice was defensive. Pure Vanilla looked through his staff, noticing Shadow Milk putting a hand on his chest.

“Then close your eyes and relax. Technically, you control everything within the spire, including everything in here.” Pure Vanilla replied, watching as Shadow Milk followed what he said. Despite Pure Vanilla checking through his staff every so often, he still fell asleep pretty quickly. He was still exhausted from his trip to and from the village, and the reasoning about how strange time was in the spire didn’t help. He trusted that Shadow Milk would also sleep, even though they remained on opposite sides of Pure Vanilla’s bed. 

When Pure Vanilla woke up the next morning, he was alone. Shadow Milk must have left. Perfect, now Pure Vanilla could continue with his act. As long as he found the information he was here for, he could return to White Lily, and they could seal the beasts successfully. 

Chapter Text

Black Sapphire rushed out of the room, holding the tarot card that contained Candy Apple. She kept complaining the entire time he was running, even after he got someplace safe and away from the duo. 

“Shut up, you brat!” Black Sapphire snapped at her, clearly still stressed. It worked thankfully, although Candy Apple had a sour expression. Black Sapphire had set Candy Apple onto a nearby table, beginning to pace. A cloud of smoke appeared, and Candy Apple was freed from the card. She was not happy.

“He came back… I thought he wanted to leave…” She had a hint of confusion in her voice, but was mostly annoyed. 

“Well, I guess our plan failed,” Black Sapphire kept pacing, ignoring his sister. “But at least we weren’t crumbled. What do we do now…?” Candy Apple was swinging her legs, bored. She stayed silent for a moment before speaking up again.

“That was terrifying!!!!” Candy Apple’s voice was as high pitched as ever, still scared from their Master’s wrath. A moment passes before she admits, “I was so worried.” 

Black Sapphire looked over, noticing her looking downcast. He averted his eyes from his sister, speaking up. “I thought we were done for.” 

“I don’t wanna get on his bad side again…” Candy Apple jumps off the table, taking one of her apples off of her head. Black Sapphire looks towards his microphone as well, his precious gift from Master Shadow Milk.

“I feel like if we screw up one more time, it’s over for us.” Black Sapphire glances back over, speaking once more. “So, maybe we should just give up on this plan…” He knew this would mean that Pure Vanilla would stay, and their Master would continue to act… strange. He didn’t think his master was after just the soul jam anymore.

“Plus, if he comes back and tells Master Shadow Milk it was us, we really will be done for.” Candy Apple added on. Black Sapphire knew the original plan was a risk, but the brat had a point. They were already walking on eggshells around Master when he was angry, and if Pure Vanilla left once more, they would be the two to receive Master’s wrath. They would be at risk if he left anyway, but they would be crumbs if he came back. Except, Pure Vanilla clearly covered them today. It didn’t make sense.

“Something tells me he doesn’t have it in his heart to tell on us though.” He spoke slowly, putting the pieces together. “I feel like his whole ‘Truthless Recluse’ persona is a lie.” Black Sapphire said this with certainty, even if he was unsure. It was his skill, after all. 

“But isn’t Pure Vanilla’s whole thing to tell the truth?! Why would he lie?” Black Sapphire watched as Candy Apple began pacing as well, the apple she had taken off now returned to her head. “Or more specifically, why would he lie for us? I led him here for witches sake!” Candy Apple wasn’t as scared anymore as just frustrated. Black Sapphire understood, he wasn’t even entirely sure either. 

“I… guess he’s taking a lesson from master… in a weird way.” Black Sapphire was trying to think of a reason, and if Pure Vanilla was falling further into deceit, then it would make sense for him to return. 

“I mean… That’s what the master wanted, right?” Candy Apple still sounds unsure, still worried. 

“Yes, but I still don’t like this at all.” Black Sapphire looked over to the sweet trickster, she’s lost in her own thoughts. After a while in silence, the only sound coming from Candy Apple’s pacing, he spoke up again. “It’s weird… you don’t think Master Shadow Milk is… in love?” Candy Apple stopped in her tracks, slowly facing towards her brother. 

“NONSENSE!” She immediately started to yell, “MASTER IS SUPPOSED TO FALL FOR ME!” Black Sapphire could see her take a deep breath in, presumably to start yelling more. 

“Ok, calm down. I don’t think he would anyway if I’m being honest.” Black Sapphire said quickly, using that as a way to ensure she doesn’t start yelling loud enough to get Master’s attention. Thankfully, it worked.

“HMPF! Of course not!” She crossed her arms in response, still clearly annoyed at Black Sapphire's suggestion. He had to admit to himself, it was a ridiculous idea. The Beast of Deceit, Master of the Spire, their master, he probably couldn’t fall in love. Like he can’t, and like Candy Apple can’t. They all were just doing what they knew how to do. He stood up, walking towards the window. 

“Anyways, I’m going to…” Black Sapphire couldn’t think of a good reason without telling Candy Apple where he was going, so he didn’t attempt. “I have things to do. So bye.” 

He opened the window, jumping out of the deceptively tall height. He could hear Candy Apple call him a liar under her breath as he jumped. He knew she wouldn’t tell, she never does. He landed lightly on the ground, walking over to the path leading away from the spire. He knew he was taking a risk by sneaking around, but he didn’t care. He changed into his merchant disguise, the one he used constantly, spotting the silver hair of the faerie he was… tricking. That’s right, he’s just tricking the faerie, he can’t even fall in… love.

Chapter Text

It was a couple days after Pure Vanilla had come back, after he said he wouldn’t leave, and after… after he let himself be honest with himself. He can’t slip up like that again, not while he was in the spire of deceit. After he came back, Shadow Milk was much more… receptive to the idea of him leaving the spire, as long as he stayed nearby. Pure Vanilla had taken to caring for the flowers around the spire, and had planted some vanilla orchids of his own. However, recently, Shadow Milk has been keeping a closer eye on him… it has made his search within the lies much harder. He inspects the strange pale blossoms, the ones that have been here since he came by. Pure Vanilla has never seen them before, and Shadow Milk couldn’t be trusted to tell him accurate information. After a couple more minutes, he stood up and walked back to the spire. He entered, only to feel the weight of his hat being taken from him. 

“YOINK!” Shadow Milk was holding his hat, floating above Pure Vanilla.

“Really?” Pure Vanilla turned around, just staring as Shadow Milk inspected his hat. It didn’t take long for him to place Pure Vanilla’s hat on his own head.

“Witches, this is heavy. Why do you wear this?” Shadow Milk had his hat resting on his head, still levitating and looking at Pure Vanilla. 

“Because,” he stepped closer to the jester, his tone of voice cold like normal, “it reminds me that I still exist.” His glare is meant to peirce, and he was hoping it worked. Right now, he wasn’t so sure. Pure Vanilla held the glare for a moment before turning away, adding under his breath, “Not that you’d let me forget anyway…” 

“How interesting! I’m keeping it.” Shadow Milk’s voice was smug, his response causing Pure Vanilla to stop in his tracks.

“You… your magic literally conjured it though…” Pure Vanilla didn’t bother to hide the confusion in his voice, or on his face. “You can make your own!” 

“I don’t want my own, I want this one.” Shadow Milk had a smirk on his face, still wearing Pure Vanilla’s hat. Black Sapphire chipped in from farther in the room, clearly he heard everything. 

“You are incredibly confusing master.” His input, while accurate, was probably unnecessary. 

“Fine, I’ll just go back to wearing my old hat, even if the colors clash.” Pure Vanilla said mostly out of spite. He wasn’t even sure if his old hat was even in the closet Shadow Milk had set up for him. He turns away, heading farther in the spire as Shadow Milk follows him. 

“Bold choice. Can I have your old hat too?” Shadow Milk moved himself to be next to Pure Vanilla, his head rotating to the side in an unnatural way. Pure Vanilla refused to look at the jester, making a point to keep his eyes closed.

“Do you just want my hats?” His question sounded much closer to a statement, especially knowing how Shadow Milk tends to be. 

“He wants you.” Black Sapphire added his input once more, now he was much closer to Pure Vanilla and Shadow Milk.

“Zip it, Sapphire.” Shadow Milk gave his order, a slight bow coming from Black Sapphire in response. Pure Vanilla walked next to him, now watching Shadow Milk. 

“Just… take them.” Pure Vanilla knew he’d regret saying that, but it gave him the intended effect. He watched as Shadow Milk gave a quick laugh, summoning his old hat once more and wearing it in addition to the one he created. Using Shadow Milk's distraction with his hats, he whispered to Black Sapphire. “He’s not subtle, is he? Even I can tell.”

“And your thoughts on the fact?” Black Sapphire questioned, his voice just as low as Pure Vanilla’s. He didn’t exactly expect this question, and he was feeling confused. He… didn’t know how he felt about Shadow Milk’s feelings, especially after what he saw.

“...It’s fun to tease.” Pure Vanilla answered after a moment, turning his attention back to Shadow Milk. “Am I just not going to have my hats for a while?”

“You’d be lucky if you ever see it again.” Black Sapphire responded in place of Shadow Milk, the jester just wearing a wide grin, showing off his many sharp fangs. Both of the hats are magically taken away, leaving Pure Vanilla with a weird feeling and a distinct lack of weight he had gotten used to.

“Yep, they’re lost forever now. At least until he decides to give me a new one.” Pure Vanilla let out a sigh, already missing the feeling of his hat. Before he could stop himself, he let out his thoughts as a mumble, just barely loud enough for the other two cookies to hear. “Still better than the maid dress.” 

“The what now?” Black Sapphire’s head snapped towards Pure Vanilla. He could feel his face start to turn red, he did not mean to remind Shadow Milk about that… curse.

“I’d think you’d suit it Nilly! Give it a try!” Shadow Milk went right next to Pure Vanilla again, glee covering his face. There’s no use in keeping his calm now, quite the opposite if he wanted to avoid that cursed outfit.

“NO!” He yelled, hearing his voice so loud shocking him. After a second, Pure Vanilla continued. “I’d rather jump off the top of the spire.” Shadow Milk’s face seemed to fall, before lighting up once more.

“I’ll wear it!” Shadow Milk declared, his grin just as wide as before. 

“And I am leaving.” Black Sapphire declared, giving them both a bow and he went back upstairs. Pure Vanilla took this as his advantage, heading towards the stairs as well.

“I’m leaving with you.” He declared, adding on quieter. “There’s only so much I can stand for the day.” He was about to take a step up the stairs only to feel a hand grab his wrist. There was only one cookie who could've grabbed his hand right now, Shadow Milk. 

“Leave…?” Shadow Milk’s voice was in shock, slightly panicked. Pure Vanilla didn’t know why, he felt bad that Shadow Milk was feeling like this…

“To my room. I don’t know where Black Sapphire is going.” Pure Vanilla turned around, reassuring the levitating cookie. Pure Vanilla adds on, muttering under his breath, “So dramatic…”
“Nobody's business.” Apparently Black Sapphire had heard Pure Vanilla from much higher up on the stairs. Pure Vanilla could hear a door close, and he just assumed that it was Black Sapphire returning to his room.

“You can’t leave yet, I was going to wear the dress.” Shadow Milk's voice was no longer panicked, and back to his typical nature. Pure Vanilla noticed that his wrist was still being held by Shadow Milk. 

“That’s why I’m going to my room. I’d rather not curse my eyes with the sight of you in a… maid dress.” Pure Vanilla explained, still not forcing his wrist away from Shadow Milk. He did make a point to look away from him.

“You know I’d rock it.” Shadow Milk claimed, the feeling of his hand… changing. Out of the curiosity that would eventually curse him, Pure Vanilla turned around to see the same woman, the same disguise Shadow Milk had almost tricked him with. Pure Vanilla hated how he was able to always look so… beautiful, especially when he tried. It didn't matter though. He was still Shadow Milk, no matter his form. Her voice, deceptively sweet and beautiful, rang out. “I can pull off anything!” 

“Augghhhhh!” Pure Vanilla let his frustrations ring out, turning away from the light blue cookie. 

“Is everything okay…?”Shadow Milk asked, her voice full of concern. It had to be fake, Pure Vanilla was sure of that. 

“I am fine. Very much so.” Pure Vanilla responded with his voice cold. He attempted to look away, only for Shadow Milk, still in the blasted form of a woman, to move in front of him. The hands, deceptively gently, rested on his cheeks, making Pure Vanilla admire the beauty. 

“You’re an awful liar…” The voice sounded wrong, the words too sweet for the sinister motives behind it. Shadow Milk’s grin only grew as she finished her thought. “You’d think you’d be better at it after staying with me.” 

“Huh, I wonder why. Too bad you’ve gotten bad at lying as well.” Pure Vanilla meant each word as he spoke, hoping they would hurt Shadow Milk, hoping they’d push him away. Yet he couldn’t stop his train of thought, not now. “Not surprising when you lock yourself in the spire all day.” Pure Vanilla was… such a hypocrite. He does the same thing while being in the spire. The reaction he got was the typical laugh of Shadow Milk, a cruel, cold laugh.

“Very funny! Now come on, I need help getting into this dress.” Shadow Milk declared, her hands moving from Pure Vanilla’s face down to his wrist, pulling him down into a different hall. Pure Vanilla yanked his wrist back, breaking free from her grip.

“I’m not helping you get in the dress. You couldn’t even pay me to help.” Pure Vanilla snapped, angry. He turns back around, much to Shadow Milk’s dismay. That didn’t stop Shadow Milk from following him, the heels clicking on the ground as further proof.

“Oh how cruel! I can’t do it all by myself!” Shadow Milk moved much closer, now practically touching Pure Vanilla. “Plus, wouldn’t you like to see the dress I hand-sewn myself? I worked SOOOOO hard!” 

“No.” Pure Vanilla replied, keeping his eyes away from the… no longer jester, but still Shadow Milk. 

“Please?” Shadow Milk pleaded, her frustratingly soft hand back on Pure Vanilla’s face. In response, he just opened his book, purposely making it a point that he was ignoring Shadow Milk. “Stubborn.” She complained, upset that she was being ignored. 

“Drama king.” Pure Vanilla finally spoke, more frustrated that the book still had nothing useful in it. 

“It’s what I’m best at!” Shadow Milk spoke, giving Pure Vanilla a deep bow. He turned his head once more, not wanting to keep looking at her, and attempting to make a point from it. “Now come on, why won’t you help me?” She began to float next to Pure Vanilla, her dress defying the laws of gravity. 

“My answer is still no.” He doesn’t give a reason, but he regrets even responding to the beast. Pure Vanilla, using his staff, pushes the lady Shadow Milk away. At least with her levitating, it's much easier to do so. 

“Hmph.” Shadow Milk changed back into his original form, adding nothing to the conversation. Pure Vanilla kept reading, despite his interest in the book being long gone now. It didn’t take long for Pure Vanilla to speak again. 

“...Can I have my hat back eventually? Or is it just lost.” Pure Vanilla asked, still not looking up from his book. He was almost entirely sure they were gone by this point.

“How about a deal?” Shadow Milk proposed. This got Pure Vanilla to finally look up, his curiosity piqued. “You help me into the dress, and I give your hats back. Both of them.” Pure Vanilla thought about it for a moment, still very much missing his hats. Yet he would have to see Shadow Milk in that dress… a sight he would rather avoid.

“I can live without my hat.” Pure Vanilla decided, returning his gaze back to the book. Witches, he forgot where he was on the page. He could hear Shadow Milk next to him, sighing dramatically. A glance from Pure Vanilla confirmed to himself that Shadow Milk was laying down in the air. 

“What a cruel world…” Shadow Milk bemoaned. Pure Vanilla couldn’t stay silent anymore, he couldn’t handle this for much longer… He got a taste of freedom, but knowing he was trapped once more has definitely brought his moral low. So Pure Vanilla snapped, sinister sarcasm laced within his voice.

“So cruel. Poor Shadow Milk Cookie, purposely keeping himself and the other half of his soul jam locked up in his spire… Soooo cruel.” Pure Vanilla had put his book down now, the sarcasm changing to an eerily calm anger. He could see the change in Shadow Milk’s expression in reaction to Pure Vanilla’s voice, but he wasn’t done. “What else could be crueler than the incredibly magical beast forgetting that he can just use magic to change his form and outfits?” Good. Shadow Milk was stunned, and Pure Vanilla could calm himself. Finally relaxing, he let out one more insult. “Drama King. Can’t escape it no matter the form.”

“Okay, it's not like I’m holding you hostage. I mean you left last night quite easily.” Shadow Milk finally broke out of his silence, speaking now that Pure Vanilla has stopped. “Plus! Where’s the fun in using magic? I crafted this dress –from scratch– by hand!”

“Yes, and you skulked inside my room the entire night and day!” Pure Vanilla had ignored the second half of the statement purposely. He was NOT going to let himself see Shadow Milk Cookie in a maid dress. It took him a second before the words fully sunk in. He… wasn’t being held hostage? “Wait… Are you saying I could just leave… With no consequence? I could just walk out the door, and never come back?” Shadow Milk looked conflicted at the question, yet he answered it all the same. 

“Well I– Yes, you could, but…” Shadow Milk was clearly conflicted, but the confirmation was all Pure Vanilla needed. He could… leave? “Yes. That is something you could do.” Shadow Milk finally finished, leaving Pure Vanilla still in shock. After a moment, he just started to laugh. He was such an idiot.

“It was that easy, I could’ve left so much earlier?! Oh my witches, that doesn’t make sense, but why would it?” Pure Vanilla was rambling, he didn’t care anymore. He finally was done laughing, able to catch his breath. “Haaahhhh oh my… I can’t believe I was such an idiot!” He really was one. For an Ancient Hero, the holder of the light of truth, a previous king! He was supposed to be smarter than this… When he finally broke out of his thoughts, he saw Shadow Milk. He still had a false confidence, but barely. He was closer to being… concerned.

“Do… you WANT to leave?” Shadow Milk asked, the sorrow laced within his voice. Pure Vanilla took a moment to think on the idea. Did he want to leave the spire? He… wasn’t sure anymore.

“Maybe if I knew weeks ago, my answer would have been yes. But right now… I don’t think I do.” Pure Vanilla let himself speak the truth, to both himself and to Shadow Milk. “I worry for my friends, for my kingdom, but I also worry about you and your well being. Not to mention Black Sapphire and Candy Apple. I have enough trust in the people I know that they can succeed in what needs to be done.” Pure Vanilla opens his eyes, looking towards Shadow Milk. 

“I can assure you there is no reason to worry about me.” Shadow Milk kept his voice neutral, his face in displeasure. He clearly didn’t like the idea of Pure Vanilla showing any kind of worry towards him, or possibly any cookie showing the same worry. Yet Pure Vanilla wasn’t going to let this go.

“Really? When was the last time you left the spire? When did you last visit YOUR friends, the other beasts?” Pure Vanilla noticed the change in Shadow Milk’s demeanor, but he wasn’t done. “When did you last talk to someone, without making them do something borderline dangerous, that wasn’t me, Candy Apple, or Black Sapphire?” Pure Vanilla took a breath in. Shadow Milk was about to speak, but Pure Vanilla had one more thing to say – well, yell. “When was the last time you even ate something?!”

“I- None of that means anything!” Shadow Milk spoke, now finally allowed to speak, does so. “Also, you can’t be talking. You refuse any food I try to give you.” Pure Vanilla is fully aware he hasn’t eaten in a while, although he hasn’t wanted to. 

“Visiting your friends means a lot more than you’re acknowledging. And so does getting fresh air.” Pure Vanilla felt a twinge of jealousy, his own friends, the cookies he cares so much about… he can’t visit them. Not until he was done, and he couldn't search the spire's books safely with Shadow Milk in the spire. Under Pure Vanilla’s breath, he adds onto his statement. “I’m also pretty sure the food has some sort of enchantment in it…”

“I don’t see why you care. Your kindness will be your downfall, Nilly” Shadow Milk taunted, using that stupid nickname he made up by shortening his own name. Witches, Pure Vanilla HATED it, and he hated the way Shadow Milk seemed concerned about him. But it was all an act, a play the jester did for his own entertainment. When Pure Vanilla didn’t respond, Shadow Milk filled the silent void, not letting the last statement Pure Vanilla said go unnoticed. “Also, your food is perfectly safe. I make it myself.”

Pure Vanilla froze at that last statement. Shadow Milk… makes his food. The abomination he brings to his room almost daily, that smells like too much and nothing at the same time… Witches that made sense now. “Great, another reason to worry! I highly doubt you can cook if you don’t eat!” Pure Vanilla stood, his anger escaping despite his best efforts to keep it hidden. If Shadow Milk didn’t drop any topics of conversation, then neither will he. “And I care, because you clearly care about me! Unless you truly want me to be a cookie that holds resentment, and only resentment towards everyone. Including you!” Pure Vanilla finished, now much closer to Shadow Milk than he intended. Clearly Shadow Milk didn’t expect this either, shown by how he backed up just barely from Pure Vanilla. 

“Are you saying my cooking is bad? I’ll… practice.” Shadow Milk said. He seemed shocked and… discouraged by Pure Vanilla’s words. And yet, Pure Vanilla noticed how he didn’t acknowledge his last statement. That’s fine, it didn’t matter anyway. 

“Fine, your cooking is bad. It’s always either over seasoned, or under seasoned. Because you don’t try it.” Pure Vanilla emphasized the last part of his sentence. Just because he doesn’t eat much, doesn’t mean he still doesn’t get hungry. Unfortunately, the food Shadow Milk brings him is almost always the only food he can even eat. “You need to eat it in order to make sure it tastes good. According to Hollyberry at least…” Pure Vanilla mutters the last bit under his breath, he can’t cook well either, but he wasn’t going to admit that to the jester. Never. 

“Fair point! Speaking of which, I need to make food anyway. Thanks for the advice.” Shadow Milk said, taking his leave through a portal. Pure Vanilla heard the poorly hidden anger, the spite. If he really did make all the food Pure Vanilla was brought, then that would mean Shadow Milk did not know how to cook to save his life. On the other hand, Pure Vanilla now had at least a half hour to read and explore, to find the necessary answers… 

“Damnit, he’ll just make me eat it…” Pure Vanilla realizes, and that will just make everything so much worse for him. Pure Vanilla calls out to the spire, attempting to run through the confusing halls to find the kitchen. “WAIT! I’M COMING WITH YOU, SHADOW MILK!” 

Chapter Text

Pure Vanilla was lost. He already knew this would probably happen, the spire of deceit is known to be intentionally confusing. After what seems like forever, Pure Vanilla finds the kitchen. Shadow Milk is actively stirring what Pure Vanilla can only assume to be soup. It was… grey and bubbling, a foul smell coming from it. Witches, if Pure Vanilla were to try that, he would definitely crumble from attempting to digest it. 

“Why hello Nilly!” Shadow Milk used his stupid nickname for him again, beaming as kept stirring the soup. Pure Vanilla had to take a moment, looking between the beast of deceit and the Soup, if it could be called that. 

“And you wonder why I don’t eat. What part of this LOOKS appetizing?!” Pure Vanilla, exhausted from finding the kitchen, motions to the cauldron. If he’s going to eat Shadow Milk’s cooking, it will NOT be that… abomination. 

“I tried my best.” That was all Shadow Milk said in his defense, but he’s clearly disappointed in Pure Vanilla’s reaction. Pure Vanilla was not going to eat that, no matter what. 

“No. We are restarting this. I will grab a cookbook, and you can… take care of that… concoction.” He turns, starting to leave, realizing that he doesn’t even know if Shadow Milk owns any. “You do have cookbooks, right?” Pure Vanilla turns back, slightly concerned. Shadow Milk was throwing the… Soup… away. 

“I don’t need a cookbook.” He states, clearly being proud of the fact that he can make barely edible food. “I was the Fount of Knowledge, I know everything.” Or Shadow Milk was proud of his past… Either way, he was lying.

“Clearly not!” Pure Vanilla motioned to the failure of the soup. Thankfully, it was almost gone. 

“I’m quite insulted that you think I’m not good at cooking.” Shadow Milk then proceeded to cross his arms in indignation, 

“Shadow Milk. I’m saying this as nicely as I can…” Pure Vanilla facepalmed, using the beast of deceit's name as a way to ensure he would pay attention. “Not even Hollyberry or Dark Cacao would eat this. And their standards are much lower than mine.” 

His tactic worked, Shadow Milk stood shocked. Well, levitated in shock. All he said in response was, “Wow.” Pure Vanilla agreed with his response. He normally… isn’t this blunt, but that’s a good thing while in the spire. Pure Vanilla let out a sigh, now knowing why the soup always looked horrible. 

“If you don’t have any cookbooks, then it looks like we have to leave the spire to buy at least one.” Pure Vanilla states, about to walk out the door, before adding onto his statement. “And to show you what food is supposed to look like.” Before Pure Vanilla is able to continue walking, Shadow Milk gives his input.

“I don’t want to leave, and we don’t have to. Let’s just wing it.” Pure Vanilla freezes at his words, remembering all of the times he has completely failed to make a single meat jelly. Constantly almost burning the tents or campsites down. 

“The problem is…” Pure Vanilla started to admit, slowly. “Cooking without recipes is not my strong suit.” That's a good way for him to phrase his inability to cook, hopefully Shadow Milk didn’t-

“So you insult my cooking and you can’t even cook yourself?” Shadow Milk spoke disparagingly, his own face showing his clear annoyance. 

“I never said that!” Pure Vanilla lies, knowing full well he was banned from many of his friends' kitchens because of his inability to cook. “Just that I was bad at improvising recipes.” Why was he fighting so hard to make it seem like he could cook, it didn’t matter. 

“Whatever.” He rolled his eyes, moving closer to the ground. “We can figure this out, it's fine.” Pure Vanilla could actually agree with this, mostly… He still didn’t trust Shadow Milk Cookie.

“Right… You won’t catch the spire on fire…” Or Pure Vanilla would set the spire on fire. One of them would burn the kitchen to the ground, and it would be his fault. Shadow Milk’s fault, because he didn’t have any cookbooks… It didn’t matter.

“I haven’t previously, so chances are low.” Shadow Milk sounded way too proud of that statement, as he took a knife and a set of a bunch of vegetables and berries on the counter. “These are good, right?” Pure Vanilla knew Shadow Milk was mostly asking to himself, but they looked fine? Pure Vanilla wasn’t sure. But he was able to see that Shadow Milk had a lot of berries he was cutting up.

“Shadow Milk… some of those are berries…” Pure Vanilla pointed out that the berries' Shadow Milk was actively cutting up, and stopped him from adding them in immediately. “We should add those in later, after the water starts to boil. Yeah… water first sounds right…” Pure Vanilla repeats Dark Cacao’s words, and then ignores how he then proceeded to almost set his own tent on fire. 

“Oh, um-Right! Wait, we have to boil the water?” Shadow Milk had confusion laced within his voice, almost making Pure Vanilla cry. That would… definitely help explain why it never tasted even slightly flavorful… 

“Yes. Water then meat or veggies… it depends on the type of soup or stew.” Pure Vanilla explained, repeating what he was told by his friends. He grabbed the needed water, placing it on the fire and letting it start to boil. 

“Ah, interesting.” Shadow Milk added as a comment, continuing to work in silence. Pure Vanilla knew this wouldn’t taste the best, he truly wasn’t the best at cooking. In fact, he wasn’t even sure if the soup would taste edible. He was just following what he was told, to the best of his memory. 

Between the crackle of the flame and the boiling soup, Pure Vanilla kept having to stop Shadow Milk from adding every single slightly edible item in the kitchen. The final result didn’t look as though it would be fit to serve anyone else, but it didn’t look like sludge anymore. It was at least recognizable soup. 

“Well… It looks somewhat edible…” Pure Vanilla looked at their attempt at soup. It honestly looked absolutely horrid. “We should… taste it first, before serving.” He recalls his earlier advice, taking a pair of spoons and passing one to Shadow Milk. 

“Okay, go ahead.” Shadow Milk spoke, gaining a spoonful of soup and placing it near Pure Vanilla’s mouth. Two can play at that game. Pure Vanilla did the same, holding a spoon next to Shadow Milk’s mouth.

“No, you should try it first.” He speaks, his mouth staying as closed as possible.

“No you, I insist~!” Shadow Milk spoke in his trademark sing-song voice. 

“No, you first! The chef should be the first to try it!” Pure Vanilla spoke, a false positivity covering his absolute terror. 

“You… are ALSO the chef!” Shadow Milk stated, a large smile spread across his face, his fangs bared for the world. He gives a laugh, repeating his previous statement, “I insist!”

“Ok, listen here.” Pure Vanilla stepped away from the spoon Shadow Milk kept near his face, continuingly. “Aren’t you supposed to be feeding me, thus meaning you need to taste the soup first.” The two stare at each other, neither relenting for a moment. Thankfully, Shadow Milk didn’t move his spoon back to Pure Vanilla. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, which it may have been while in the spire, Shadow Milk spoke.

“Fine.” He takes his spoonful of soup, very reluctantly eating the sip before his face contorts in absolute disgust and despair. “THIS is what I’ve been feeding you?!” Pure Vanilla blinked a couple of times, Shadow Milk really hasn’t tried ANY of the food he has been serving Pure Vanilla… but Shadow Milk hasn’t crumbled yet, so it’s safe to eat, at least.

“My turn.” Pure Vanilla stated, taking his own spoon to try the soup. It was bad, but something Pure Vanilla would be willing to eat if he was really hungry. “This is actually better than what you’ve fed me before.” He admitted, moving away to clean his spoon off. It was incredibly flavorless, but had an… ok consistency. Of course, Shadow Milk didn’t take that compliment well. 

“THAT DOESN’T MAKE ME FEEL BETTER!” He yelled, his distress clear in his voice and expression. Which didn’t make sense to Pure Vanilla. Shouldn’t he… be happy he was able to torment Pure Vanilla with just a simple action?

“This is why we NEEDED a cookbook!” Pure Vanilla snapped back, he was just… confused. This didn’t make sense, why couldn’t he make sense behind Shadow Milk’s motives?

“How am I supposed to obtain a cookbook?” Shadow Milk has returned to floating above him, his arms crossed. “Imagine you’re a cookie running your bookstore, and the BEAST of deceit comes in, and asks you, ‘Hey, where’s your cookbook section?” Shadow Milk finished, his expression shifting to false happiness and then returning to annoyance throughout the statement. Yet Pure Vanilla agrees, if Shadow Milk was to leave the spire and walk freely, as himself, there would be panic and chaos. Which Pure Vanilla assumed is what he wanted, considering all of his disguises… 

“Shadow Milk, I say this as nicely as possible.” Pure Vanilla spoke after a moment, and he made the realization. “You literally have multiple disguises, one of which you USE on me constantly!” His voice is cold, factual. It was the truth however, and they both knew it. To be fair, Shadow Milk has already shown Pure Vanilla a couple of his disguises already. Shadow Milk lets out a sigh, his form shifting right in front of Pure Vanilla. He lowered himself to the ground, the blue and black dress settling. Pure Vanilla had to admit, Shadow Milk definitely looked nice as a woman… but he was still Shadow Milk. No matter what. Pure Vanilla needed to remember that. 

“Fair point.” Shadow Milk’s voice was around the same vocal range as normal, yet her voice still fit her perfectly. She was so stunning, gorgeous… like a siren. Pure Vanilla still needed to stay on guard. 

“For someone who knows almost everything, you can certainly be such an idiot.” Pure Vanilla wanted his words to hurt Shadow Milk, to push away his ideas, his thoughts surrounding his current beauty. He couldn’t let Shadow Milk know he had a chance, and he couldn’t let any feelings show. 

“Rude! Hmpf.” Shadow Milk retorted, Pure Vanilla’s words have had the intended effect. Good.  He watched as the shapeshifter turned, grabbing Pure Vanilla’s arm, pulling him towards the door. “Now come on, let's go get that cookbook.” Pure Vanilla had to catch up quickly, grabbing onto her arm instead. Shadow Milk would’ve dragged him as well, probably on the ground if he refused to move. 

“You don’t have to be so violent.” Pure Vanilla stated, rubbing his arm where he got pulled. As they both left the spire, an idea passed through his mind. Especially when he knew Shadow Milk had… some sort of feelings for him. Even if he didn’t know why yet. After a couple more minutes of walking, he cleared his throat, smiling at the now shorter cookie. “I mean, if you wanted a date so bad, you could’ve just asked.” Instead of the familiar blush and averted gaze Pure Vanilla had grown accustomed to, she turned her face towards Pure Vanilla, a similar grin on her face.

“Oh, great idea! Let’s pretend to be a couple!” Shadow Milk said, his voice a little too joyful to just be an act. “It’ll make my disguise much more convincing, hm~!” Pure Vanilla felt his heart skip a beat at the idea, immediately shaking it off. This was just an act, he couldn’t forget it. 

“Exactly, congratulations on being Pure Vanilla’s most recent partner, my lovely lady.” Pure Vanilla spoke, keeping the same energy that Shadow Milk was using. Pure Vanilla, while he couldn’t see much, was able to see the blush that spread across her face. She looked away, an attempt to hide the bright blue that had spread across her face, and Pure Vanilla felt a cold hand take his own. It happened quickly, taking the healer by surprise. He doesn’t pull away, despite knowing he should. They kept walking down the path, the wildlife becoming less distorted by Shadow Milk’s magic and influence. When they were getting closer, Pure Vanilla finally spoke again. 

“So, I can’t JUST call you pet names the entire time. What’s the lovely lady’s name? At least for today?” He asked, looking back to his fake girlfriend. 

“Lady Azure, of course.” She stated, finally letting his hand go. Pure Vanilla let it happen, watching as she instead lifted the hem of her dress up. 

“Of course, a lady of the highest elegance.” Pure Vanilla let out a light chuckle, moving his own arm to wrap around Shadow Milks. They kept walking for a bit, before Pure Vanilla spoke up once more. He was much more talkative at the moment, and Shadow Milk was much too quiet. “Well, we mustn’t dally, lest the lady be trapped within the forest, with monsters waiting to strike.” Pure Vanilla spoke in an exaggerated fashion, one he hadn’t heard spoken often, not since he was a child in the Academy. It seems Lady Azure had a similar idea, playing into her act.

“Oh Nilly~! Promise you’ll protect me!” Lady Azure leaned into Pure Vanilla as she spoke, playing her act up, and being deceptively sweet. If Pure Vanilla hadn’t known who she actually was, or the threat she posed just by having a physical form. Pure Vanilla couldn’t help but find the act sweet, in some twisted way.

“Of course.” Pure Vanilla stated, “What kind of boyfriend would I be if I didn’t protect my lady?” On impulse, he leaned in, as if he was going to give Lady Azure a kiss. He wouldn’t though, Pure Vanilla was still fully aware of how dangerous Shadow Milk was, and he can’t catch any possible feelings. Pure Vanilla felt a hint of surprise as he saw a deep blue blush spread across her face, and her immediately twisting her face away.

“Of course of course.” She spoke quickly, her voice betraying her attempt to hide the embarrassment. After a quick laugh, to himself, Pure Vanilla let go of her arm, walking quickly. Once he was far enough forward, he gave Lady Azure a curt bow.

“Ah, it appears I was too forward. My apologies, Lady Azure.” Pure Vanilla looked up from his bow, smiling. After a moment, she began to move forwards once more, taking his arm again.

Chapter Text

 They finished the trek to the village, familiar flora now surrounding them. 

“We have arrived at the village now. Let's stay on task.” Lady Azure’s voice was focused, clearly remembering how bad the soup tasted. Pure Vanilla had to agree, the soup attempt was… absolutely disgusting despite their best efforts. 

“Of course, we really need that book…” Pure Vanilla confirmed, looking around.

“Desperately.” Lady Azure began leading them through the small village, and Pure Vanilla was praying that the children had left. 

“We must find the bookstore. I’ve only been here twice, and once I could barely see-” Pure Vanilla is interrupted by Lady Azure, her already pointing to a clearly labeled bookstore.

“It’s likely that one.” 

“Apologies my lady, it seems my eyesight isn’t the best.” Pure Vanilla walks over to the store, opening the door for Lady Azure, his smile remaining. 

“I’m well aware.” Lady Azure walks in, smiling at Pure Vanilla. “Why thank you~! Such a gentleman.” The last statement was said quietly, making his heart skip a beat. This was an act though, Pure Vanilla had to remember that. Pure Vanilla heard the merchant greet them, as a couple… Pure Vanilla was just… confused now. It didn’t matter. After being pointed to the section with the cookbooks, both him and Lady Azure went over there, being in awe at the sheer amount of cookbooks in the small section. Each was completely unique, and both of them were just in… shock.

“There’s a lot… what do we even need?” Lady Azure spoke first again, looking at each book carefully. “Should we just get them all? What if we get the wrong one?” Pure Vanilla could hear the worry in her voice, an anxiety similar to how he’s felt this entire day. 

“I think we should just get one to start with, preferably one with simple recipes.” Pure Vanilla spoke, his hand running along the spines of the variety of books. He notices Lady Azure take one of the books, the title clear.

“Ah… ‘Cooking For Beginners’... Is this us?” She asks, looking through the book. 

“Based on the Soup incident, yes it is…” Pure Vanilla reluctantly admitted, looking over to his fake partner. 

“Then let's get this one, it seems to cover soup as well.” Lady Azure states, closing the book and placing it in her basket. Pure Vanilla had already noticed, and knew what she was most likely planning. Instead of accusing her, or just taking the book back out, he instead moved his arm to rest around her waist. He was pulling her closer, and at the same time blocking her actions from any prying eyes using his cloak. 

“My lady, I know it's your way and all…” Pure Vanilla spoke softly, ensuring no one else would be able to hear him, “but I’d prefer to return to this town without a reputation. It’d be terrible if someone saw and put a bounty on our head.” There was a moment of silence between the two, and Pure Vanilla was willing to just… let her. It didn’t matter much either way, nothing did. 

“Fine.” She relents after another couple moments in silence, pulling the book out of her basket. “But you do realize I have no money on me.”

“Of course not, thankfully I do-” Pure Vanilla realized what she had actually said. “Why don’t you have any money?” Pure Vanilla looked to the slightly shorter lady, him already pulling the pouch of money he brought with him to Beast-Yeast. 

“I’ve been locked up in a tree for centuries, I don’t think money was my biggest concern.” Lady Azure turned her head away, an attempt to show her indifference before continuing. “I just take what I need anyway.” Pure Vanilla could hear a hint of… despair within her voice? It… didn’t matter, Lady Azure was Shadow Milk, the Beast of Deceit. Of course that would extend to stealing what he desired.

“Fair, and it would be incredibly rude of me to insist you pay for these books, considering I am your boyfriend to these people.” The last part was a reminder for Pure Vanilla. He couldn’t let himself forget his plan. He couldn’t let himself fall in love. He needed to remember this was all just an act, a way to trick Shadow Milk. He takes the cookbooks from Lady Azure, walking to the merchant.

As he paid for the books, he couldn’t stop thinking. He can’t just… forget the pain he’s been through so far, but there was clearly something hidden within Shadow Milk’s past. Pure Vanilla had always been curious, just like White Lily. It was why they bonded together as students. And now, this curiosity is pulling him to learn more about the beast. But the more he knew, the more he understood how… cursed this entire situation was. Pure Vanilla paid, returning to the lie once more, falling into an act. His voice came out uncharacteristically cheery, a way to play into the act.

“Anything else you would like to do while we’re in town?” Pure Vanilla asked the blue cookie that was now walking next to him. 

“I’ve heard there is a nice restaurant in this town, perhaps you could take your lady somewhere nice?” Lady Azure clearly knew where she wanted to go, and it made sense. She wouldn’t have to pay for anything. Right before Pure Vanilla could ask where she wanted to go, Lady Azure continued. “And it’s probably for the best that we eat out today, until we learn how to cook.” 

“Of course,” Pure Vanilla agrees, a laugh leaving his body, “but you must eat everything…” After a moment of deliberation, he adds on a simple nickname, a single word, “love.”

“Same goes for you dear~!” Lady Azure spoke, the pet name causing a slight blush to appear on his face. 

“Then, to the restaurant?” Pure Vanilla asked, attempting to change the subject. Lady Azure nods, leading the way. 

If this wasn’t just an act, if this was real… Pure Vanilla could actually have fallen in love with her. Shadow Milk, in his disguise and as himself was definitely not bad to look at. But he still was incredibly clever, and a skilled liar. This was just as he said before, just an act, just a way for them to get what they needed while in town. It’s all just a lie. Yet maybe… Somewhere else, in a different time or place… they could be together. Pure Vanilla couldn’t help but think of the possibilities, and he felt a smile spread on his face. Oh witches, he’s genuinely smiling… He can’t keep thinking like this, and he definitely can’t let Shadow Milk see. 

The two of them enter the restaurant, and get taken to a table quite quickly. Pure Vanilla looked around, he didn’t know a place like this was even in the village. “A lovely place, my lady.” He told Lady Azure, his face now in a controlled expression. 

“It is quite nice, Black Sapphire told me about this place.” She explained, also inspecting the decor and the furniture. 

“I can see why, it's quiet here with a nice ambiance. Perfect place to end the day.” Pure Vanilla agreed. He looks at the menu they received, deciding almost immediately. 

“Precisely.” Lady Azure took a little longer to decide, if she was deciding at all. “Hm… What are you going to have, dear?” Pure Vanilla immediately lifts the menu back up, hiding another slight blush as he heard the new pet name Shadow Milk gave him. 

“I’ll just have the pasta.” Pure Vanilla said, still hiding his face. “How about you?” He finally lowers his menu, looking to see Lady Azure looking at him.

“I’ll have the same, dear.” Lady Azure had to be using the pet name on purpose at this point, and attempt to make him more flustered, no doubt. He clears his throat before speaking again.

“Then pasta it is, I’m sure it’ll taste much better than the… Soup.” Pure Vanilla lets himself shudder at the memory of the horrendous attempt they had. Lady Azure had the same reaction, both seeming to agree that the Soup was a crime against cooking. 

“How about we share a pasta? It’ll be cheaper.” Lady Azure suggested, and Pure Vanilla had to agree. While he still had a decent amount of money, it was limited.

“Yes, that would be prudent. I doubt I’ll be able to return to my kingdom for a while to replenish my savings.” Pure Vanilla commented, sighing.

“Ah, so you plan to stay for a while? How wonderful!” Lady Azure had a clear joy in her voice, her being the one to place their order of a single pasta. After the waitress walked away, she gave him a smile. Pure Vanilla continued their conversation. 

“I told you I wouldn’t leave, and I’m not one to tell lies. Despite your insistence.” Pure Vanilla spoke, watching Lady Azure carefully. He was gauging her reactions to what he was saying. “Especially if you were to mope around in my room the entire time I was gone.” 

“I would NOT mope around! Liar.” She said, crossing her arms and looking away. 

“You did when I left the first time. Unless, you stayed on my bed the entire time for a different reason.” Pure Vanilla teased, fighting a laugh. Lady Azure had started fidgeting, showing her nerves, his question caught her off guard.

“I was fine, I was just… erm” Lady Azure stuttered. It’s not often that she could even be caught off guard, let alone at a loss for words. “I was tired and it was the closest bed!” Pure Vanilla knew she was lying. 

“If you insist, but you really need to get better at lying. People might actually start thinking you’re telling the truth just because you’ve gotten so bad.” Pure Vanilla teased, making it clear he didn’t buy what she said. However, he wasn’t pushing her for answers either.

“You’re weirdo truth stuff is rubbing off on me, maybe you should cut it out.” Lady Azure retorts, staring at Pure Vanilla. 

“But isn’t the point of you keeping me in your spire to make me more… deceitful?” Pure Vanilla replies, knowing how that was NOT how the soul jams worked in the slightest. “It doesn’t work if you become truthful instead.” Lady Azure doesn’t respond, the two of them sitting in silence for another couple minutes. Just as Pure Vanilla closed his eyes as a way to pretend he wasn’t in public, he heard the Lady’s voice.

“The pasta is here.” Pure Vanilla looked over as the single plate was placed between them.

“Ah, great timing. It looks delicious.” Pure Vanilla responded, thanking the wait staff. He took a fork, and just waited. He wasn’t entirely sure why he was waiting, he just felt awkward eating, especially after so long of Shadow Milk’s attempt at Soup.

“Indeed it does!” the Lady watches him, finally being the first to take a bite of the pasta. After she takes a bite, Pure Vanilla does so as well. After a moment, Pure Vanilla speaks up again.

“I will admit, it has been a little while since I’ve eaten…” He felt Lady Azure give him a knowing look, she wasn’t happy with him confessing that.

“You should eat more.” She states.

“As should you.” Pure Vanilla immediately responds. 

“If you promise to, then I will.” Lady Azure takes another bite, continuing to stare at Pure Vanilla. She knew how he was around promises, Pure Vanilla hated breaking them. But maybe, just maybe, if he got Shadow Milk to eat more, he wouldn’t be as… insufferable. 

“Then it’s a promise, we both eat more? Although we will need to get better at cooking.” Pure Vanilla teases, incredibly grateful they bought those cookbooks. To his surprise, Shadow Milk nods, agreeing. 

“Agreed. And I promise.” the Lady said, taking another bite. Pure Vanilla follows suit, turning his attention to the people around them. This whole act was strange to him. Pretending to be a cookie of deceit, while holding onto what he cared for. Needing to protect the cookies who were important to him… Why didn’t he leave? He could, just hide away again for a couple of centuries, let whatever needed to happen, happen without him. It would take away this entire conflict. 

Shadow Milk was doing something with the pasta, but it didn’t matter. No one cares where he is, what he feels, or how he’s doing. Pure Vanilla closed his eyes, staying lost in thought. But his eyes snapped right back open when he felt a softness against his lips, seeing Lady Azure right in front of his face. He felt his entire face warm up, realizing what happened.

“Ah! My Lady, my apologies!” Pure Vanilla panicked, he didn’t realize what was happening, or how it even happened, “I should’ve been more careful!”

“Yes you should have.” Lady Azure turns away. Was she… blushing? Knowing that only made Pure Vanilla feel worse. He doesn’t want her to think he’s playing with her feelings. 

“My sincerest apologies, perhaps we should’ve gotten separate plates to avoid this.” Pure Vanilla offered, despite the damage being done. 

“No no, it’s fine. I doubt we’d finish separate plates anyway.” Lady Azure had a point, they definitely wouldn’t have been able to finish different plates. Pure Vanilla was struggling to finish half of the plate he had in front of him. 

“True, yet perhaps we could’ve asked for a single portion on two separate plates?” Pure Vanilla is trying to find a way to avoid this incident from happening again. He doesn’t want Shadow Milk to get the wrong impression. Although, Pure Vanilla remembered the feeling, and thought about it… Lady Azure had… incredibly soft lips for someone with such a sharp tongue… Pure Vanilla felt the blush only grow as he realized what he allowed himself to think. He can’t let him think like that. 

“No need. We don’t want to give them more plates to clean up for less food, hm?” Lady Azure responded, snapping Pure Vanilla out of his thoughts. The idea that Shadow Milk… didn’t want to inconvenience someone? Impossible to be true without a hidden motive. 

“Ah, who knew you to be so considerate.” Pure Vanilla mused, "It's almost as if you planned this.” He watches her expression carefully, waiting for her response.

“Only when it benefits me.” Her statement only confirmed Pure Vanilla’s suspicions. 

“Well then, I rescind my apologies, since you gained your desired effect.” Pure Vanilla states, no regret within his voice.

“Excuse you?” She said, staring into his eyes. 

“Do you want the rest of the pasta?” Pure Vanilla offers her, ignoring the question he was just asked. There were only at most three bites, but Pure Vanilla didn’t want to risk another weird situation.

“I think you should have it.” She says, setting her fork down.

“Are you certain, dear?” He double checks, using the silly pet name to sell their act. 

“You always put others first and skip meals, it's time you think about yourself for once.” Lady Azure pushes the plate towards him, and Pure Vanilla listens. He finishes the pasta, looking out the window.

“It’s gotten late… we should leave soon.” He says, waiting for Lady Azure’s input. 

“Ah, that is correct. We should.” Lady Azure agrees, standing. Pure Vanilla does the same, leaving more than enough gold on the table for their meal. 

They both step outside, Pure Vanilla holding his hand out for Lady Azure to take, if she wished. After a moment, Pure Vanilla felt the cold, dainty hand take his own. He glances over, seeing Lady Azure looking away. They both began the walk back to the Spire of Deceit, cookbooks in the basket.