Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Tales of vampires always scared little kids in camps. Stories of their love warmed up many hearts and complicated the situation made them laugh and gasp like it was some sort of theater play

(I'm looking at you, Twilight saga xd)

But....what if it is not supposed to be all fluffy and cute? This is not how love works. It's not all sunshine and rainbows. It's not sweet, it's hard. Hard, harsh, complicated and cold. Not everything is supposed to end in the happy ending. Love only exists in conditions, achievement, accomplishment, nothing more matters. 

This is at least what Shadow Milk had been taught. He was wealthy, powerful, and most of all, respected and well known as a noble man in his time. He was smart but stubborn, short tempered and thirsty for knowledge. But he was a good kid.

But love?

His parents were more of the problem. Arrogant, ignorant, neglectful, harsh and cold. They were not parents to him. They didn't even acknowledge him as a kid, for them, he was a trophy. A thing to show to keep their status and reputation up. One mistake, he will crumble. Punished. Hardly even if the mistake is not really noticeable.

The love wasn't there, it never was. Yet, Shadow Milk took it as one. He didn't complain, didn't raise his voice. He was like they wanted. He thought this was love.

Though it wasn't.

,,There you go Mrs. Yogurt. I hope your daughter will get a nice grade. The tutoring session got better each visit. I'm sure she will fix her grade."

,,Thank you, Shadow Milk. Please, visit us next time. Thank you again."

,,It was a pleasure, miss."

With that, he left the house and started walking to his usual spot at the end of the town, near the fields. Under a big oak tree. Since Shadow Milk was smart, intelligent he was doing tutoring. For free, for spreading his knowledge. But since his status of all wealthy and powerful noble man, he sometimes gets paid. He spent them wisely on books, writing supplies or even just placing them in the vault like some sort of piggy bank.

It was a small gesture he gave town folks who got terrible grades, or could even afford the education. He loved spreading knowledge, he loved seeing relieved parents faces when he came to help and he loved reading books under the old oak. He was reading once besides the road, but after a small incident, he moved further from the road. Once a sheep destroyed his books. Shadow Milk was so angry at that shepherd. So mad. He said some not good things to him, but the books are not really cheap you know. It's been month since that incident, but he still couldn't stop sometimes about that young shepherd. Maybe he needs to apologize to him for harsh words, but he was too stubborn to do that.

He was peacefully reading, but his peace ruined... little baa?

He looked up from his book and saw a little lamb.

Pure Vanilla on the other hand was quite the opposite of Shadow Milk's status. He was poor, humble and selfless. Every penny was a victory to at least afford food for animals and his family. Vanilla's parents were not really different from Shadow Milk's. They were selfish, neglectful and only cared about their needs. Pure Vanilla was for them a key for money and food. He knew it, but still wanted to help them. Some people knew Pure Vanilla, the kind and caring blind shepherd. He helped town folks a lot, to only get piece of bread as a reward. It was enough for him, though he didn't eat it alone, he shared it with his parents or his sheep.

,,There you go Vanilla. I wish I could give you more but...my boss will not allow me."

,,It's ok Miss Carrot Cake. I understand, but thanks anyways."

Carrot Cake handed him some money with a little smile and also a piece of a pie.

,,There, take it as my apology for not enough money. You are a wise cookie, you will use it wisely but I know it. But please, eat ok?"

,,Thank you again, Miss Carrot cake!"

Pure Vanilla took a piece of the pie. He politely smiled, thanked and was ready to leave. But Carrot Cake stopped him for a while.

,,And Vanilla, please stop by here tomorrow again. Maybe I will be able to give you more than today. Or maybe save you some baked goods."

,,Ah, that would be great! Thanks again. Goodbye miss Cake!"

,,Goodbye Pure Vanilla, stay safe!"

With that, the young shepherd began to walk down a street. He split the pie, and ate one piece. The rest will go to his parents. He went to his sheep. They were on the field, at the end of the town. It was the usual spot. He often saw some other town folks and even nobles hang out there. It was peaceful there. One time, he encountered a noble, he was about his age, if not then only 1-2 years older than him. He messed up big time then, accidentally letting his sheep walk on his books. He was upset, angry. But after that encounter he hasn't seen him since. He wanted to say sorry, that he didn't see him. How could he? With his blurry eyesight.

He sat down on the grass, while some sheep were herding, some came to Vanilla curiously, smelling the pie.

,,Sillies, it's not for you."

He laughed, and let sheep pasture. But one of the little lambs wandered off from the flock. He could notice a little blurry spot going away.

Pure Vanilla quickly stood up and went after a little lamb. But soon as he ran to the hill, he lost it. Oh no...

,,Little lamb... little lamb!"

...

Of course nothing, but he can't leave the little one alone!

He began to walk down the hill, listening if he could hear the lamb. Nothing. Even when he asked someone, they would ignore him or say they didn't see the lamb.

He started becoming worried. How could he lose a little, quite loud lamb?! Even if he is visually impaired, he never lost one of his sheep like that!

He was about to shout again, but then he heard it. Soft, quite loud, baa! Little lamb!

He ran towards the sounds. His eyes then caught the blur of white. His sheep. But also blur of...blue?

,,Is this yours?"

The "blue blur" said. Shadow Milk. He was holding the lamb, unimpressed and quite irritated that his reading session was interrupted, but not mad.

That voice, Vanilla knew him. He recognized him. It was noble that Pure Vanilla ruined his books.

,,...Yes, yes it is, thank you."

,,Wait a sec...you are that piece of dirt who ruined my books!"

....piece of dirt...?

,,I'm sorry.... I'm sorry I let my sheep walk on your book...."

,,Sorry will not fix them! It's not a problem to pay them, but still."

Shadow Milk said, he was still upset. He was still holding a little lamb in his arms. Looking at Pure Vanilla, he couldn't stop but felt still frustrated, but he can't just yell at the other boy all day.

,,Forget it, here is your stupid lamb."

He placed the lamb on the ground, it bleated and ran towards Pure Vanilla. Blonde just smiled a little and petted the little one on its head.

Shadow Milk just signed, finally some peace. As he wanted to return to reading, the blonde cookie disturbed his reading session for the last time.

,,Thank you, for finding my sheep."

Shadow Milk looked up from his book last time. The other boy was smiling at him, grateful and relieved. With sigh, Shadow Milk hummed, returning to his reading.

,,Your welcome."

,,Where were you, Shadow Milk?"

His mother asked when she heard the door opening, she didn't even need to look up from her book. She knew it was him.

,,Tutoring Miss Yogurt's daughter. Literature, for her exam."

,,Ahh, Honey Yogurt? Excelent! She is well respected in the town. Go to your room now, dinner will be ready soon~"

Shadow Milk just goes, he knows they will not call him. They never did. It was ok, he wasn't hungry anyway. As he entered his room, he glanced from him window, into the forest, he was wondering if the legends were real....nah, probably not.

Chapter Text

Several weeks passed, but noble still somehow interacted with blonde even against his will. It's like a curse. After he returned his lamb, it seemed like the blonde was following him, even though he knew it was ridiculous and not true.

Two days after they met on the fields, he went to a local book store, only to find Pure Vanilla sweeping the floor and cleaning some windows. They exchanged awkward greetings and moved on.

Then four days after that, be saw him helping the bakery. Then store, blacksmith, tailor, and possibly even more than he can count! It was irritating, frustrating.

Was he following him? He was poor after all.... maybe he wanted to beg for some money like other poor people he knew.

He had no problem with people, not even the poor ones, but beggars were something else. They could be violent sometimes and it's better to avoid them.

But it's true he would beg already, so what's his deal?!

Shadow Milk made his way to the bakery, to find something to munch on while he will read on the fields like always. But of course, he once again was met up with messy blonde locks and a slightly smaller figure. Pure Vanilla.

Pure Vanilla, the young shepherd, was once again in the bakery. Cleaning up the windows, sweeping the floor, taking supplies to bakers from the back and placing trays with goods in its place. He seemed to not notice Shadow Milk. At least not yet. This felt strange, really strange. Pure Vanilla was freaking everywhere and it started becoming frustrating, irritating. He forgot about the treat, about the reading.

How is it even possible?! Why is he here of all people?!

While Vanilla was sweeping, he heard footsteps behind him, and wanted to check who it was. But the person was quicker, and they grabbed him by his clothes and dragged him outside.

Outside, near the back, he was lightly pushed to a wall and grabbed his shoulders but not too tight. Vanilla could make shades and colors of blue, then when Shadow Milk leaned and was in perfect angle, Vanilla could make out his face. And he then instantly knew who it was. But before he could open his mouth and ask what he wanted, noble interrupted him.

,,Why are you everywhere I go?!"

His voice was quite harsh, but he seriously grew so tired of seeing him everywhere he goes. Pure Vanilla was of course confused, cuz on some times, he didn't even notice him.

,,...Excuse me....?"

,, Don't act so dumb! I'm going to a bakery, you are here! Library, you are there! Tailor, blacksmith. Why are you freaking everywhere I go!?"

His grip on his shoulders grew kinda tighter, he didn't even notice but Pure Vanilla tensed a little and his grip loosened then, realizing his mistake. He felt guilty, but yet again, he is too stubborn to admit it....at least now.

,,....Everywhere you go? You were there?"

,,No, I was just enjoying the show. Yes, I was. I just said it."

,,Oh...I didn't-"

He was once again interrupted by the noble. His tone is harsher but careful to not say anything he would regret later. Be was still irritated, but he tried to control and not to explode at the poor boy.

,,What? Didn't see me there? Like you didn't see me when you destroyed my books? When you lost your lamb? Or when you almost ran me over with a stroller? Is this your excuse?"

,,But...But I-"

,,But you what, dirt boy?"

Vanilla tensed, he could hear the irritation in his voice. Did he do something to upset the noble? He didn't mean to, but what was it? The irritation in his voice was clear, but regret in his body language too, though Vanilla couldn't really make up his face, he noticed a little shift in his expression.

Shadow Milk regrets his words, he only realized what he had said when the words were already out. He let go of Vanilla's shoulders, just standing there with guilt. His emotion took over again.

,,I'm...I'm so sorry I...."

,,It's ok..."

,,Wha-. No it's not! I-"

Shadow Milk sighed and leaned against the wall, sliding down. Pure Vanilla sat down next to him, not a word spoken. With a sigh he continued.

,, It's just so weird to see you practically everywhere. Like really everywhere. And after our last interaction on the fields, then in almost every building...looks creepy and weird to me."

,,I guess you are right."

Shadow Milk weakly chuckled, but still feeling horrible. He turned his gaze up, and then in front of him, where's the wall of the bakery in the back.

,,Say, how come this happens? What are you even doing here?"

,,I work."

,,Work?"

,,Yeah, but it's nothing bad, and I'm glad I could help."

Shadow Milk hummed, one question answered, the other still remained in his head. Maybe he was being ignorant, possibly even rude.

,,How come you didn't notice me? Or saw me?"

Pure Vanilla looked at him, waiting for a minute if the noble had something else to say. When he was sure it was all, he said.

,,I'm blind...well not entirely, but still blind. I can make shapes and colors, even in specific angles, light and distance."

Shadow Milk stiffed, how come he didn't acknowledge it?! It was so obvious, yet he didn't notice. All the time he cursed under his breath, the irritation, and yet he was mad at the person who can't even see clearly! How ignorant of him.

,,I wanted to tell you when you returned my lamb, and apologize for ruining your books. I really didn't see you. So, I asked a local bookstore how much your books cost...and I don't have enough but I hope it will be enough."

Pure Vanilla handed him a little bag with money. Shadow Milk looked inside and yeah, it was not enough. But there was no way he would just take his money. He worked so hard, even for a blind person, apologized for destroying his books and now he wants to pay for the damage. Shadow Milk's stomach did a twist, he would take the money, unsure but he would take it. Of course now knowing the truth is making him sick. These money are possibly the only money he has and he is willing to give it to him. Money for food and some other supplies, only to be given by a noble, to pay for the books.

...

No, no this feels wrong. He can't accept the money.

,,It's not necessary, really. Keep your money."

,,But...how will I then repay you?"

Pure Vanilla said. He looked stubborn and wanted Shadow Milk to accept his money, but Shadow Milk didn't want to possibly take his only money. But he got a better idea.

,,Does the townfolks pay you differently? Like here in the bakery?"

Pure Vanilla thought for a sec, then he nodded.

,,Yeah, miss Carrot Cake often gives me some pie."

That got Shadow Milk's attention, and smiled with an idea.

,,How about this, if you convince Miss Carrot Cake to give you butter croissant, you pay your depth and you don't have to then give me your money."

Pure Vanilla though for a while, this sounded fair and easier than gathering enough money. And if it makes noble satisfied and happy, he didn't see a reason to not try it.

,,Alright then, wait here, or do you want to wait in the bakery? I still have some work."

,,I will wait here, but how much work do you have?"

,,Not too much, I will just place trays with goods and sweep the floor."

Shadow Milk nodded, understanding. With that Pure Vanilla quickly went inside to finish his work.

,,All done!"

,,Thank you Pure Vanilla, you did amazing like always."

Miss Carrot Cake said as she gave him money. It wasn't too much but it was better than the last time. With a smile she handed it to Pure Vanilla. But she didn't want to let him leave yet, since she knew the young shepherd didn't eat today. Hmm, perhaps she will offer him some pastry?

,,Say Vanilla, did you eat today?"

,,No...I was in a rush."

,,Ah...well, want some pastry?"

Pure Vanilla's eyes sparked. He smiled and nodded.

,,I just wanted to ask if I can have a butter croissants."

Carrot Cake chuckled and packed him three croissants. Three freshly made and baked croissants.

,,Of course, of course you can. Here you go. And stay safe Vanilla."

She handed him a bag with goods and waved goodbye. Vanilla smiled and waved too.

,,Goodbye miss Carrot Cake!"

,,There you go, butter croissants!"

Pure Vanilla handed him a bag. To his surprise, Shadow Milk shoved the bag back to his hands.

,,How about we first go to the fields and then you will give me your payment?"

Pure Vanilla just nodded, understanding his wish.

The walk wasn't that long after all. It was really close by.

Pure Vanilla and Shadow Milk sat down in the grass, while Vanilla's sheep were herding, the two boys exchanged the bag.

Shadow Milk got the first croissant, while he took a bite he also offered one to Pure Vanilla.

,,Eating alone is not fun."

,,Yeah, true."

Vanilla carefully took the croissant, like it's going to disappear if he eats too fast. But he eventually took a bite.

While the boys were eating, Shadow Milk turned to look at the blind boy. There was one detail he noticed and it was quite embarrassing, he didn't know his name.

,,Say... what's your name?"

Blonde stiffed, realizing that the both of them didn't introduce themselves. What a bad manners.

,, I'm Pure Vanilla, you?"

,, Vanilla, huh? I'm Shadow Milk."

,,Nice to meet you, Shadow Milk."

And with that, the possible friendship started.

Chapter Text

Meeting the blonde and became friends was the best decision Shadow Milk ever made. Pure Vanilla was kind, nice and didn't really act like he was a noble at all! He acted like he was his friend, like he was a cookie like everyone.

It was weird at first, but he got used to it and loves it. He loves how easy it is to talk with Pure Vanilla and how understanding he is. Shadow Milk for the first time in his life felt different. Warm and happy, feeling so foreign that he was afraid of that feeling at first.

Each time spent with the shepherd, Shadow Milk felt that feeling. That sweet, intoxicating good feeling. Knowing he cares, he is interested in his hobbies and would listen to his troubles for hours, it was just too good. Of course, that feeling disappeared once he got to his home. The feeling of warmth and care was gone, replaced with cold and indifferent aura. Shadow Milk at first didn't notice it, but soon he started realizing how cold and unloving his parents were.

It didn't hurt, not felt like a betrayal. He just hummed and moved on, not like it's going to change anyway. He doesn't need his parents' love, he has a friend. Friend who got him everything even though his poor state.

Right now, two boys were sitting in the fields with Pure Vanilla's sheep. Noble was telling the young shepherd about his day, how he was tutoring other cookies or his classmates, about the festival he heard from his parents, stories he read, how he was doing in school. Pure Vanilla was only staring at him with sparkles in his mismatched eyes.

,,Reading sounds like fun. How many stories did you read?"

,,Hmmm, about around 20-30 stories... I'm not sure, I've read a lot of books."

,,Woah, that's a lot of books...I wish I could read.."

Ah, right. With Pure Vanilla being poor he can't afford to go to school. Even if he could, his blindness is not doing it easier on him either.

,,...What if I read it for you?"

Shadow Milk said quietly. He was more likely saying it for himself as a thought, but he said it loudly enough for Vanilla, causing him to perk up.

Shadow Milk then realized his mistake, but he wasn't trying to deny it, it would be a nice change, and he could even practice his speech for presentation and stuff. But mostly, he wanted to make Vanilla's day bringer, at least a little bit.

,,That would be nice. If you want, of course."

Shadow Milk just rolled his eyes, but not by annoyance. He got his favorite book and started searching for the story two of them would enjoy it and started reading it out loud. His voice steady and clear. 

The blind shepherd's eyes were beaming with happiness as he listened to the story. It was a while since he heard someone read a story, most of the time he was busy when some townsfolks were reading out loud their stories as homework. So now, hearing Shadow Milk reading for him so he would also enjoy a little piece of the book made him happy. Really happy.

,,So what do you say?"

Shadow Milk asked as he finished up reading, putting his book on his lap.

,,It was a beautiful and amazing story, Shadow Milk. Did you read that story multiple times?"

,,Well, not multiple times, but enough to know you would like it."

Vanilla hummed and smiled, laying in the soft grass. Shadow Milk also laid down, the calm and positive vibes in the air.

,,Do you know White Lily?"

Pure Vanilla asked while they were walking down the street, walking back home. That question really got him out of guard. Not because Lily was some sort of unknown person, but how casually he asked. He wouldn't be surprised if he said he knew her, Lily was a kind soul...well kind yet, but also so smart.

With groan, Shadow Milk nodded.

,,Yes I know her, sadly. She is actually in my school. And she is in the same line as me."

Pure Vanilla only tilted his head a little, confused.

,,On the same line? Like what for example?."

,,Grades, intellect. Even the same status."

,,Ah, so rivals."

He could say it like that. It was true, though, a young noble would prefer a school enemy. For some strange reason, he hated her and she hated his guts. No reason at all. While in some situations they can even forget about their rival-enemy thing, they mostly hate each other. But, that's not an important detail now.

,,You could say that. Why do you ask?"

,,Oh, she is my friend. But past these months she has been busy. So I was curious about how she is doing."

Shadow Milk hummed, understanding why he was asking about her. But hey, months of not hanging out or saying: hey, how are ya.

That's pretty rude.

,,Well, she is doing fine. Don't worry."

,,And I'm glad."

The path to their homes was then yet again quiet, not awkwardly. Comfortable and peaceful quiet. Even if Shadow Milk wanted to talk more, his house was near so it wouldn't be much of a long chat. With that, both boys said their goodbye and went their separated ways. But tomorrow they will meet possibly again.

The days passed, weeks, months. Possibly even 4 years. Four years of their friendship, four years.

Pure Vanilla and Shadow Milk grew quite close to each other. Always helping each other, always listening to their troubles. Always. Even White Lily found some time to hang out with them. At first she was skeptical about the idea of hanging out with her school rival-enemy. But for Pure Vanilla, she tried it. Yes, they fought a lot, but eventually they got to know each other better, so the fights turned into small arguing.

The thing with his parents didn't really change. Not really, still the same cold and selfish people, still the one who saw him as their little pawn to their success. Things weren't worse, nor better in his case. It was the same old life, nothing really changed.

Thought he wouldn't say the same for Vanilla.

,,Nilla, I'm here!"

...

,,Nilla...?"

,,Pure Vanilla, are you here??"

Shadow Milk with Lily got to their usual meeting spot, the fields where the blind blonde usually herd his sheep. To their surprise, he wasn't there, his sheep only. That is odd, Vanilla doesn't leave his sheep alone, and if he does, it's only for 10-15 minutes and he is usually in the town, but Shadow and Lily didn't see him there.

Lily sighed, motioning for Shadow Milk to follow her. With a tilted head, he followed her.

Lily led him through a little path. The path wasn't so far from the flock, but it was hidden thanks to the trees, like a mini forest. The birds were singing and the leaves were rustling. There was a peace disturbed by quiet sobs. That got both of their attention and followed the sounds but also Lily's lead, like she knew where the sounds were coming from.

Eventually, they came across the fallen tree, and there he was. Hugging his knees close, hiding his face. But White Lily and Shadow Milk could see his trembles and hear his quiet sobs.

They look at each other, unsure what to do. But they eventually sat slowly beside him.

,,Pure Vanilla?"

Shepherd's head perked. Looking up to the source of the sound. Now, they could see his red and puffy eyes.

,,Lily... Shadow Milk...?"

,,Hey, what's wrong?"

Pure Vanilla looked at the ground, still. Without any movement for a while. He then took a deep breath, to calm down his sobs.

,,Yesterday...I accidentally fell asleep in the barn with my sheep..."

He said quietly, wiping his tears away.

,,When I woke up...the house...the money I made...my parents...they are gone..."

He choked on the sob. Both, Lily and Shadow Milk tensed up. Gone. Money he made by himself, his parents and house. He was alone now.

,,Hey, hey. Look at us."

Lily gently shook him. He hesitantly looked at her.

,,We are going to help you. Really. We will not let you down!"

,,....Really....?"

,,No Nilla, we will just watch you struggle and do nothing. Of course we will."

Shadow Milk said bluntly. Lily shot him a look, but Vanilla chuckled weakly.

,,Now, wipe your eyes, and let's go."

,,Where?"

,,To your flock. Lily left a picnic basket there. And we are sure you haven't eaten yet. So we will have a little picnic."

,,Ah...I see."

Shadow Milk stood up and Lily helped Vanilla up. With that they made their way to their spot and prepared the picnic. As they ate, all of them hoped the thing would get better in the future.

The only thing is that they will not get better, they will get worse. They just didn't know it yet.

Chapter Text

Since Vanilla now is on his own, things change a lot. The blind boy was still young to be on his own, without a house, only a barn.

But that didn't really stop Pure Vanilla from trying. He was still helping around the town, working. Lily and Shadow Milk would also help him, such as giving him at least something to eat or supplies such as warm clothes and new shoes.

Pure Vanilla didn't want to accept their gifts at first, but eventually he accepted it and was glad it was nothing too expensive or too much.

He also sometimes paid them. And that was of course with his ways of getting treats from Carrot Cake, gather them material like herbs and wood, everything they needed. Though things were difficult, he wasn't alone, and he was glad his friends were by his side.

,,Happy birthday White Lily!"

,,Happy birthday, Lily."

The trio was once again on the fields, but this time more in the forest area than usual. Pure Vanilla's sheep were herding in the field near the barn, while still being secured with a fence. Since today was a special occasion, and it was only for today.

They set up a picnic near the clearing and the lake. Pure Vanilla had wrapped a gift and Shadow Milk was holding a cake for three of them. Though Shadow and Lily are frenemies, they decided to leave fights, at least for today, at least they agreed to try. It's way too good a day to be ruined by a petty or senseless fight.

,,There you go Lily, both of us choose it."

,,Both of you huh"

,,Yup, we put our money together and bought you that."

Vanilla said as he was holding her gift. The gift wasn't so big, but it was wrapped in green paper and tied up with a white ribbon with red faded ends. Lily looked at the gift, then at two boys.

,,You two split money to buy me a gift?"

,,Yeah, I saved some extra money when I was working overtime some days"

,,And I paid half of it too. It's nothing too expensive, since you apparently don't like big gifts."

Shadow Milk was smirking, not mischievous like always. Not smugly, just amused. Like he can't wait for Lily's face when she opens the gift. It was a strange sight but Shadow Milk was quite nicer, happier even when they started their little trio friendship. So, Lily decided to take a note of his expression.

His blue heterochromia eyes were sparkling a little, he was smiling, brightly. Holding a cake like it was a treasure, so fragile. No signs of mischief, pranks or faux sweetness. Just genuine joy.

,,Come on, open it."

Vanilla gave her the gift. Lily just started in a medium sized wrapped box. She then looked at her friend and frenemy. She slowly opened her gift, not because she was scared of what was inside, but because she started to be a little bit more curious than ever. What these two got her? What was inside?

As she unwrapped the paper, opened the box. Her eyes were met with 2 things in the box. Another little box, jewelry. And with a cardigan she really liked and wanted. The cardigan was made from wool, green, her favorite.

,,We remembered how you were disappointed when they didn't have your color in the store. So we found one!"

,,Let me tell ya, it was easy to find the color, but style was something else."

,,Style?"

Lily raised her eyebrow, as she put on her brand new cardigan. It was cozy and very stylish, really her taste.

,,Yeah, you know. Different variants, styles, sizes. Yada yada."

,,Ah, I see. But it's still nice. Thank you."

Lily smiled, truly a good gift. From Shadow Milk. And for her birthday. Truly nice. But yet again, there was another little box there, a jewelry box.

,,You know I don't wear jewelry, right?"

She didn't want to sound rude or anything! But jewelry was not her taste, not because she saw them not pretty no, but mostly because the jewelry she had was golden, sparkling and getting attention. Attention she didn't like. Even though, she spent most of her time outside, studying or helping around her little manor. She often lost some, so thought of Shadow Milk and Pure Vanilla buying her jewelry sounded pretty stressful since she was losing jewelry.

,,We know, but that's not a lame, cheap junk. If it was, I would take some of my mom's jewelry, trust me."

,,Besides, this is something you will definitely like! Come on, open it."

Pure Vanilla gave Lily the little box. She hesitated for a while. But she slowly opened the box. There was a bracelet. Not some expensive, attention seeking looking jewelry. Just a simple bracelet. There were some gems, of course, but it looked so normal. Green and dark red gems and beads were there with a mix of white. And in the end, there was an accessory with the shape and colors of a lily. Her flower.

,,Here is the best part. We all match"

Pure Vanilla took out a similar bracelet. But instead of green and dark red beads, he had yellow and brown. In the end he had an accessory in the shape and color of the Vanilla orchid.

Shadow Milk's bracelet was blue and black. In the end, he had Milkcrown flower

Of course, they made friendship bracelets. How nice.

,,Whoa...you two really took my birthday seriously."

,,What, did you think we would only give you a cake and cardigan?"

,,I mean, yeah but-"

Before she could finish her sentence, Shadow Milk's finger was placed on her lips,  hushing her up.

,,Hush hush, Flower girl. We don't want to hear it. Your excuses. So sit down and let's finally dig into the cake."

Rude. Lily just huffed, but it lacked any negative emotion. She just sat down next to them and cut the cake. She was really grateful for her gifts, truly grateful that her friends thought and took her birthday seriously, even if she was flustered to admit it.

As three of them munched on the cake, truly one of the best cakes Carrot Cake had. They munched, slowly enjoying the little treat. But the peace was not going to last forever. No, that's not how it works.

Fifteen minutes later, when the cake is eaten and they are playing some games or talking while eating snacks, the trumpets and bells are heard from the town. Something is wrong.

,,Do you guys know about a carnival or something?"

,,No, but I don't think it's a carnival or anything like this Shadow Milk. It looks like an emergency."

,,Looks like it, Vanilla. We must go there, we will possibly find out more about what's going on."

As Lily said, they started packing up. The blanket, empty cake container, some empty or half full dishes with a little refreshments or snacks. Packing it to a picnic basket and with a quick pace they were walking towards where the noise was coming from. The crowd of town folks were here, distressed women and scarred children. Rich were in front of the crowd or somewhere in the middle impatiently waiting, while ill and poor were hidden in the shadows, listening.

Kids got their way in the middle of the crowd. With Shadow Milk's lead they got an amazing view of the little town square, where their major and Shadow Milk's parents were standing.

,,What are they doing here?"

,,My family is one of the richest folks here, White Lily. If anything, the mayor possibly called them."

,,Makes sense, but called for what?"

Just then the trumpets and bells went silent. Pure Vanilla tugged their clothes a little to get their attention. The voice of the mayor got their attention immediately as they started listening carefully and closely.

,,Dear citizens! We know that the emergency bells and trumpets got you worried, but we have more things to discuss and say!"

Mayor Walnut Leaf said, his voice was unsteady but still loud. As the thing he was saying, he tried to make himself believe. From the body language, Shadow Milk noticed the distress, the fear. Unlike his parents, who were standing there almost with no emotion, just with the same cold stare like they always did.

,,We have a huge problem going on. The woods, the fields we liked to visit in the evening with our kids and families are not safe anymore! The woods, are filled with vampires!"

Lily's blood ran cold, Shadow Milk stiffed and Pure Vanilla's eyes widened a little. Vampires, the myth that everyone made jokes or scary stories were now roaming close to their town.

,,We are not sure there's a lot of them, or if it's only a small group. But we cannot risk anyone being killed. So here Mrs. and Mr. Milk came up with a little idea.

Mayor Walnut Leaf moved aside, it was Shadow Milk's parents turn to speak. And the boy didn't like it, not in the slightest. Something was not right here, he could feel it. He knew it.

,,Thank you, Mayor Walnut Leaf that we can help. We came out with a little idea. Since vampires are roaming, there's a possibility that they will surely be hungry. Vampire bites are serious issues and sick people can be affected immediately. To prevent any unpleasant situations, we decided to take poor and sick citizens under our wing, to our organization where we will check them up, and send them somewhere, where they will be more useful."

Shadow Milk's blood runs cold. Something was really wrong, something was going to happen. His parents wouldn't help if it wasn't for their own benefits. They planned something, he knew it.

His mind became a mind wreck. Racing with questions, with inner stress that he could hear anything around him.

What was going on?

What are they planning?

Why do they suddenly care about the town, about the people here?

This is wrong, this is really wrong!

His mind train was disturbed by a quite smaller but warmer hand squeezing his. Pure Vanilla, even though his blindness felt the distress in the noble's body. The fear in his body language. It was a quiet way to say that it will be ok, that whatever is going to happen it will be ok. Lily also joined in, hugging them both gently. Enveloping Shadow Milk and Pure Vanilla. Vanilla relaxed a little, but Shadow Milk felt worse, but for them, he tried to relax.

Nothing will happen to them. Nothing. But for now they must keep their head cold.

Chapter Text

No one was allowed to go to the forest, no one. The fields were ok but you can't be there at night or when sunset starts. To even prevent some unwanted incidents, the town started building a wall, its purpose was to protect the cookies inside the town. To stop wandering around the city at night the guards were guarding the gates, any wandered would be sent into a special "cell" or more likely a room and would be released in the morning. It was a difficult and strange change, but the town lived once again. The town folks were chatty, working and laughing like nothing was going on. Even kids looked like they almost forgot about the situation, but our trio?

They felt like they were locked up in the cage and couldn't leave. They couldn't leave the town, they couldn't go to their usual spot in the fields without guards giving them some vitamins or checking up to see any bite marks. They couldn't wander off from the town in the night, nor in the sunset. They felt like they were in prison, but they sucked it up. After all, it was only to protect the cookies who live here, the families. If everyone was safe, they got no problem with the system.

But.....

,,Do you know where Pear Spear go? I haven't seen them since Friday last week."

The blonde asked, he and his two friends were near the pond at the end of the town near the wall. It has been almost a month since the announcement about the vampires. The wall was incomplete, only a structure, but thanks to help by the town folks, rich families, even some other towns, the wall structure was made perfectly. Not done yet, but still perfect.

,,Well, from what I heard, Pear Spear and their family were taken to the organization. You know, that one Shadow's parents did."

,,Oh...I see."

Speaking of perfect things, the organization wasn't really perfect. The guards were showing up on the doorsteps of the poor, sick, disabled, homeless, etc.
They already took away some cookies and left them there. It worked like a homeless shelter, though guards took them there. They were there hidden and protected. But one one really cared about the shelter and organization. Bare minimum cared about them, so no one really cared if they were gone or not. Yet Shadow Milk cared, he didn't trust that project. His parents were of no charity so it felt weird, weird to think they did actually something nice.

It was strange, how they were suddenly accepted. Yet, also cruel how these cookies were quickly forgotten by society when no one sees them.

,,I hope they will come back, soon. "

Lily said, as she threw a pebble in the pond. It made a little gloing noise, sending little waves that scared frogs from water lilies. It has been a beautiful day, hot and sunny. But the atmosphere was gloomy and dark. The only one who could sense it was Shadow Milk, he was oddly quiet all day, even at school. Pure Vanilla was worried about his friend, even Lily was worried about Shadow Milk, the usual loud and chatty classmate and rival was acting like he just lost election to become a mayor.

,,Is something wrong Shadow Milk?"

Pure Vanilla asked, worried. Shadow Milk snapped from his thoughts by the shepherd's question. Lily was also looking at him with the worried look.

,,I'm fine....just thinking."

Shadow Milk said with a low voice. To be fair, today he was acting odd, but they decided to not push it.

,,About what?"

Lily asked, she and Vanilla soon sat down next to him. Listening. Shadow Milk took a deep breath, already regretting his confession. It was stupid, he knew it. Yet it was so important to him.

,,About the town folks. I haven't been teaching or tutoring anyone that much. Everybody is scared, careful...I miss it, I miss spending my time teaching and tutoring cookies, helping them with their homework and such."

,,Ah, so that's why you are acting so down."

Lily nudged him by her shoulder lightly. Pure Vanilla also relaxed a little bit as he chuckled, relieved.

,,So you miss the tutoring session, huh?"

,,Yeah...I really do."

The answer was quiet, yet with a softer tone. The hint of nostalgia ringing. Shadow just sighed a little and laid in the grass.

,,I guess I will just need to wait for things to get better...or something, I don't know."

Vanilla was now in the good angle to notice Shadow Milk's expression. Disappointed, sad yet hopeful. Looks like his friend is really enjoying making these tutors and lessons. That's when the shepherd's mismatched eyes sparkled, glimmered with the idea.

,,Hey, why don't you two have some studying sessions together."

Both Lily and Shadow looked at Vanilla like he just announced that he is going to the Moon. Him and her, studying together like some friends. Without arguments, without fighting and without tension. Impossible.

,,Nilla, I said tutoring and teaching. Not babysitting."

Lily's cheeks burned red, as her eyes shot a glare to a noble.

,,Why you-"

Vanilla quickly goes between them, to prevent any unpleasant and petty argument. While two students shot glares and tensions, the blind shepherd patiently and slowly tried to calm them down. It was becoming exhausting even for him, but losing his cool wasn't ideal now.

,,Now, now. You Lily said you need some extra time studying. And you Shadow Milk said you miss tutoring. So why not study a session? It will be the only ideal and best for you two!"

Both frenemies looked at each other, it's true that they said it. But being together at school and hanging out with Vanilla is already enough!
...
But it's true they got used to each other's company...not that they will admit it.

,,I think we can try it, Milk."

,,Ugh, fine! I agree too. But only to try it."

Vanilla smiled at their agreement, at least they will learn how to get along more. As he looked up at the sun, Vanilla's breath hitched, it was getting late. Not as it was sunset, but he was late for something.

,,Something wrong, Nilla?"

Shadow Milk asked as he noticed Vanilla's expression.

,,I need to go, I'm sorry guys."

He quickly stood up and took his bag and wooden cane. He was about to head back home, to his barn. But Shadow Milk grabbed his bag as he was about to head off.

,,Whoa, where are you going? What's the rush, Pure Vanilla?"

Lily asked, curiously.

,,Well, I have a lot of work. I need to tend my sheep, clean up a barn, check if I have enough food for them and stuff. You know, the usual."

,,Wanna go and help you?"

These words left Shadow Milk's mouth automatically. He was used to helping the blind blonde a lot. It was dirty work, hard work. But noble didn't seem to mind. Not at least if it means to help his friend, if it means Vanilla will smile, to ease some struggles. And even if it means to leave senseless arguments with Lily for a while.

Blonde just shook his head and smiled. Assuming them, he can manage alone just fine.

,,I'm good, don't worry. While I work you two can have that study session. Besides, I don't want you two to get a bad grade just because you were helping me with my work."

The shepherd chuckled, the scholars glanced at him. It felt wrong to make Vanilla all of his work alone.

,,Are you sure? I mean, I don't want to be rude or anything. But, isn't it a lot of work for only you Pure Vanilla? We can study later and-"

Pure Vanilla placed his hand on Lily's shoulder, patting it slowly.

,, Sweet from you two, but I assure you I can manage. But if it will make you feel better, Mr. Fruitcake promised me to help me if I could help him around the garden. Which I did."

Lily hummed, not entirely satisfied but relieved blonde will not do the entire work alone. Milk let go of Vanilla's bag, allowing him to leave.

,,If anything, let us know. We will help you."

Lily called out. The shepherd just nodded and headed home.

,,So.... ready studying Flower girl?"

,, Let's just get over it already."

With that, two scholars started their non-planned study session. This is going to be the worst moment of their life.

---

Surprisingly, the study session wasn't as bad as the two of them imagined.

,,Ok, I was wrong. You are really a fast learner. I must say, I'm impressed."

White Lily just grinned as she started packing her stuff in her bag. It was really relaxing and Lily was surely feeling smarter. Shadow Milk was also really impressed how she was learning and understanding quickly, asking to be sure and pretty much digging the information out of him.

,,Thank you Shadow Milk, it was really am-"

,,It was boring, you learn way too fast."

He teased.

,,Hey! Excuse my curiosity and learning skills."

,,I never said it's a bad thing, Flower girl. I just said it was boring."

White Lily just rolled her eyes, not really annoyed. The atmosphere was light, pretty bright. Two of them packed and took their stuff as they started heading back to the town square. The sun was still shining, it was still time to go home.

,,Ya think I will manage the test?"

Lily asked awkwardly. She was still nervous. What if she forgets everything so Shadow Milk's help, freaking help would be a waste of time. She doesn't want that. She doesn't want to be on his bad side, not now at least.

,,Well, by your progress and pretty much understanding the material, you will definitely get a good grade. You worry so much, princess. But don't worry! You got it!"

The noble grinned mischievously. Lily rolled her eyes. She knew that he wanted to annoy her, and sadly, it was working perfectly.

,,First of all, don't call me a princess ever again. And second of all.... thank you."

,,Your welcome, Flower girl."

With that, their path separated. Lily went home at the end of the road. Shadow Milk continued to walk home. As he was walking down the street, he felt something strange....so odd...

The streets were quiet and empty. No soul was outside, which made Shadow Milk's senses to sharps. Something was not right here.

As he was passing the town square, going into a stoned path, way to his home, he felt like someone followed him. No one, was there. Yet he knows it's hiding.

When he opened the front door, he heard voices, three voices. His parents and someone else. As he was tip-toeing to the source of the noise, he started ear drops...

....

He wished he didn't.
...

---

,,I want to talk. What do you plan is wrong."

Mayor Walnut Leaf said at Milk's mansion. He and Mr and Mrs Milk were in their living room, sipping on tea and some biscuits. Though the sweet treats felt tasteless like dog food right now.

,,Now now, Leaf. Our organization has no issues. It's without mistakes. What is the thing you want to talk about?"

,,Mrs. Milk, I know you are not a charity. Even the treat from you was a clear red flag!"

Mr Milk shot a glare at Walnut Leaf, cold and piercing through him.

,,Watch your tone. We are saving this town from these worthless pieces of dirt. Besides, who would believe us when we would announce the shelter out of the blue?"

Then Mrs. Milk, besides her husband, gave Walnut Leaf the most sadistic and twisted look that women can have.

,,Don't you see it, Walnut Leaf? You were just a pawn in our game to get town folks on our side. To get money and reputation! No one cares about those rats, only you and those who got them as their workers, though, we don't need them at all. Now, we don't need you anymore too.~"

Her words left her mouth like a dripping acid. Her gaze filled with insanity and cruelty. The mayor needed to back up a little, terrified yet brave. He made his gaze at Milk's, determined and ready for anything.

,,Don't need me? Hah! You can't get rid of me!
Even if you are really desperate to silence me. Killing me will only add fuel into the fire."

Mr. Milk took out a dagger and stabbed the Mayor into the chest, jam spilling out, Walnut Leaf gasping for air, trying to form words. Yet, nothing came out.

,,That's what we want. That's, what we need."

With these words, he pulled the dagger out of his chest, with full force.

Once a mayor, now a crumbled cookie.

,,Seriously honey? Now, we will need new carpet."

,,Oh shut up, the jam is our way for our little lie. Now, give me the "fangs" so it will look realistic."

The couple was arguing, through what they didn't know was their son, who saw everything in the shadows. Horrified, he quietly left the hall, then ran to the town. Where? To the barn where a certain blonde shepherd lived.

He can't be late, he can't! Something bad is going to happen, he knows it. The feeling in his gut, was true.

---

Pure Vanilla, tired and dirty from his work made a hum of satisfaction. His sheep tended, sheep pen clean and all work around the barn done. The elder man, Mr. Fruitcake was taking his stuff for shaving, the sheep really needed it as they happily herd and relaxed.

,,Thank you again, Mr. Fruitcake."

,,It was a pleasure Vanilla. If anything, call me again and we can deal."

With a smile Mr. Fruitcake walked home, leaving Pure Vanilla alone.

....

Though he wasn't.

Soon as he began to walk his sheep to the sheep pen, a noise of hooves and metal made him stop in the tracks. A cold and uneasy feeling made him freeze? He turned his head to see the blurry shape and colors of probably a young guard.

,,Can I help you?"

,,Hey kiddo, are your parents at home?"

,,Actually...I don't have a house...my parents burned down inside..."

Pure Vanilla backed up a little, didn't like where this was going. Who were they?

,,Ouch. Well, looks like you are alone then, huh?"

The guard crouched down to Pure Vanilla's level. Faux sweetness and kindness in his expression, that expression Vanilla couldn't see, but could only notice.

,,Look kid, we don't want problems. Just come with us and we will be gentler. If not....well, we don't really want that."

That made the shepherd's alarm ring. This was wrong. As he slowly backed off, blindly finding a way out. Sheep gathering around, distressed by unfamiliar faces.

,,Can I just tend my sheep before going?"

The guard looked down at him, his eyes dark, expression blank.

,,No. Now go."

The guard grabbed him by the shoulder, which made Vanilla flinch. First instinct was telling him one thing, run. So he did, it was difficult at first, but it caught guard of guard that caused him to let go of a kid. Ashe started running, which made the guard even more furious. As the flock noticed the sudden change, they also started running around. Blocking the  first guard's way. The second one was just glancing at the mayhem. Slowly walking through the fluff of sheep. Then, walk slowly and quietly, almost like a predator stalking and finding his prey.

Luckily for Pure Vanilla, he knows his home like the back of his hand. Every hideout, tree even.

Everything, he knew where was located. Even when his blindness, he could orient himself. But again, he was blind. He couldn't notice the second guard after him, quietly coming closer and closer.

Then

,,AAAAAH!"

The scream echoed. It was loud, too loud. The first guard heard it, the flock of stressed sheep heard it. Even some walking by cookies did.

,,I got him! Let's go."

He was holding Pure Vanilla by arms, tightly, refusing to let him go. Vanilla was screaming, kicking, protesting. The guards didn't care, they dragged him into the wagon and closed him there. Along with some other cookies.

As the guards got into the carriage, they hitched a ride and quickly left.

...

As Shadow Milk was running where the barn was placed. He heard it, loud scream. It was him, it was Vanilla. He started running even faster. He needs to get there soon. He can't be late. He can't!

The screams died down a little, but he still could hear it. He ran and ran. Deep in his thoughts, deep in his goal that he didn't notice the bushes moving. Fast almost unnoticeable movement. Shadow lurks behind the noble, monitoring him, ready to take action.

,,Nilly! Nil-"

Sharp pain shot through his body. Mostly though his neck. He got shoved out of the path. Somewhere to the bushes. Then nothing. Everything was blank, everything hurts.

His neck, his teeth, back. Everything. Ringing in his ears didn't help, as he was laying in the bushes. Little cuts and bruises were made on his body, but he ignored it. More painful was his neck, where he felt like his life was being sucked out. Then everything was blank, he felt numb, nothing.

...
....
.....
......
........

Gasping, pain. These were the things Shadow Milk felt when he woke up. Bruises all on his body that were bloody, almost like someone bit him down multiple times. He couldn't move, he must move. But his limbs are tired, he needs to go, but his mind is foggy. He needs to shout but his teeth hurt.

Weak and sore, he got up. He must get up. Wobbling and limping he walked to the barn, he couldn't run, not anymore. Slowly approaching, he was close. But the silence was making it difficult for him to say. It was killing him, it was suffocating him. The screams weren't there, not anymore. Shadow Milk's heart sank and quicker his pace. Walking again to the path, to the barn. He smelled fire and smoke. That made him walk even faster.

As he got to the barn, he noticed the damage. The barn was burned with a fire, the fence for sheep smashed and sheep pen outside destroyed....right, where are the sheep?

At first, Shadow Milk thought they were in the now burned barn, as he wanted to look closer to the barn ruin, he heard a soft, startled bleat. Then another and another and another. From around the corner, the flock of sheep gathered around Shadow Milk, distressed and nervous. Bleating in panic.

,,Hey, hey....where is Vanilla...where is your shepherd..?"

Pretty useless to talk to a sheep, knowing full well they can't talk. But for the 4 years of his friendship with Vanilla, he learned that animals are actually pretty smart. You seem to not understand them, but they can understand you pretty well. And Pure Vanilla's sheep were no exception. Soon, Snowdrop, the little lamb that made him and Pure Vanilla meet, now as a big and strong ram, was walking around him slowly, tugging his clothes.

,,You know something...?"

The tugs only hardened. The noble took it as yes. He then let Snowdrop drag him to the direction where the guards took Vanilla.

---

In the town square, cookies were gathering around, the same as they did a month ago. The bells and trumpets were heard once again. This time, only Mr and Mrs Milk were there. As they were watching how town folks were walking directly to them, waiting for the news, they could help but smirk a little bit. No one noticed, no one. Besides the podium where the couple was standing there was a wagon covered in the coat.

Shadow Milk with Snowdrop got there just in time, hiding in the shadows, listening and watching how the havoc will start. Shadow Milk was still sore and hurt, he was leaning a little bit on Snowdrop, being careful to not hurt the ram.

,,Dear citizens, we have sorrowful news. Our dear mayor, Walnut Leaf, had been killed by vampires."

The crowd gasped in horror, the vampires were in the town. With no protection, they can now easily kill dozens of citizens. Families, rich and poor.

,,Please, calm down. We have more news."

Mr. Milk cleared his throat, his look cold as ice. Voice monotone.

,,The vampires will leave us alone, if we will give them "weak blood". Apparently, they are easy prey. The weak blood, is the poor part of citizens."

,,We must sacrifice at least one of us in order to survive at least once a month. Today is no exception. And we are starting with them."

The wagon was revealed, there were three people dressed in white sacrificing clothes. Two men, that looked like they had been homeless and then a kid, with blonde hair and mismatched eyes, Pure Vanilla. Three of them panic in the corners of the wagon, scared of their life.

Shadow Milk's blood ran cold, his breath got shallow. Snowdrop was now practically carrying his whole weight. His parents, his non caring and selfish parents, were cruel and sick people who just wanted to destroy his first friendship, his only friendship.

,,So, are we going to do it! For the town, for our mayor?! So no one can suffer!"

The crowd started cheering, not everyone but most of them. Blind and ignorant of what is going to happen to the three cookies.

,,Alright then, let's do it!"

The wagon started moving, as soon as Shadow Milk noticed, he started running after, with Snowdrop behind him, helping him walk.

The wagon stopped in the middle of the forest, guards left the key in the door of the wagon and left them there as soon as they heard the movements. Leaving them for death. The men there just laid there, in each other embrace trying to sleep even though they will never wake up again. Pure Vanilla was hugging his knees in another corner, scared. Through the lack of the light, since it was becoming late, he couldn't see much, which stressed him even more.

As he was sitting there, waiting for his death to come, he heard footsteps. He prepared himself, shaking then.

,,Nilla...Nilla!"

Someone whispered and yelled behind a familiar voice that made his body stiff.

,,Shadow Milk..? What are you-"

,,No time, come on! We need to go."

The fiddling with the door and the lock. Without luck. As Pure Vanilla wanted to speak, the soft baa was heard.

,,Wait... Snowdrop..? Shadow Milk you need to-"

,, I'm NOT leaving. Not without you, not here with these monsters."

Shadow Milk was still struggling with the key and the lock. He didn't have much strength to unlock the lock.

,,Come on....Come on!"

Click, and the lock was unlocked. Shadow Milk opened the door in a hurry, taking Vanilla's hand.

,,We need to go. Let's get moving."

Shadow Milk started walking with Snowdrop. He started to feel better, but he was still sore, and didn't want to risk it. They were moving fast, but still not enough. With Shadow Milk still limping a little, it was slowing them down a little bit. A little bit of last sunlight was shining through the trees.

,,Shadow, you need to go."

,, I'm NOT leaving."

,,You must leave. I feel you limp, you are hurt."

,,I'm fine, just sore."

Just then the bushes, the leaves on the trees started shaking, like there was a strong wind....there was no wind.

Vampires.

Both boys'eyes widened. Shadow Milk started walking faster. Still it wasn't enough. The rustling got closer and louder.

,,Shadow Milk, just go."

,,No! I....I."

The noble stopped, unsure what to say. The blonde pretty much just said to leave him here and leave him to die. He....he can't.

,,You are my friend, my only friend. My first friend. I care about you....I can't just let you die... please... just please! Move and come with me.... don't leave me alone again.."

The words came from him quietly, a plea that made the shepherd's heart ache. He slowly took both of his hands, clicked his tongue which made Snowdrop leave. Shadow Milk was confused, confused about what was going to happen. The blonde's mismatched eyes were looking directly at his, filled with regret and sadness.

,,I care about you too Shadow Milk. You are my friend, a really amazing friend...but do you trust me..?"

Something about this question didn't ring well. He wanted to ask, what does he mean. Ask why is he asking. Instead, he nodded. Unsure and confused, yet his heart was already sinking.

,,Yes... yes I trust you."

As he said, the rustling got closer and closer. As it looked like soon it would be right behind them, Pure Vanilla whispered.

,,Then please, forgive me."

With that, he pushed the noble right into the bushes, right where the sunlight from the sunset, it made a little hiding place. Hiding spot for Shadow Milk. The rustling was right behind him, and then the vampire behind Pure Vanilla, lunging at him from behind.

Shadow Milk's stomach dropped as he got pushed out of the way. At first, he heard the monsters, the one who was following them, but no screams from Pure Vanilla. When the rustling got away, Shadow Milk tried to get out of the bushes.

,,Nilla! Pure Vanilla!"

The place where they last saw each other was empty. He moved more to the clearing, close to the wagon. In the wagon, two men were dead, jam dripping down their mouths and neck, yet still in each other embraced. But outside the wagon....it was worse...

Jam in the grass, torn clothes and bracelet. Bracelet that belonged to the blind blonde.

His knees dropped in front of the chaos, the jam was soaking though his trousers, tears streaming down his face. He slowly took the bracelet to his hands. Sobbing uncontrollably.

His friend, his only friend. The only cookie who understood him, who didn't look at him through his status. Even if he was poor, never begged for money, never feared the power he had in his family. Was now gone.  Gone forever.

Jam got to his hands as he was picking up the bracelet. The worst time possible ever. Right when he tried to wipe his tears, he heard it. The gasp, soft, startled gasp.

As he turned his head, he saw her. White Lily, her eye wide, posture stiff but filled with revenge. She had her crossbow, pointing at him.

,,...You killed him.... your family sacrificed him and you killed him!"

,,Lily, please hear me out. It was not me I swear I-"

Lily, now filled with rage. Still pointing at him, her finger is already on the trigger.

,,Do you think I will believe your lies?! Your clothes are soaked with jam, you have fangs. You are a vampire. Do you really think I will believe a vampire!"

Her words made Shadow Milk froze. Shakily he checked his teeth. He then felt it. Strong, sharp vampire fang. Realization then hit him, he looked at Lily, wanted to explain but she didn't let him. He just ended up standing there, looking at her with panic. Eventually, he backed off, running to the forest. Lily then pulled the trigger, but she missed.

Shadow Milk ran and ran and ran. Finding a place where to sleep. Eventually he found a place near the creek. As he was sleeping, he was hugging the bracelet close to him.