The Suspicion

About a good day of progress had been made, now with Mochaccino's help and his permission to analyze Dark Cacao's Soul Jam, the scientists were making groundbreaking progress. Considering how well he and Espresso worked together in the past, they were quickly making up for lost time.

"Well, how would you say progress is coming going, Espresso Cookie?" Mochaccino questioned, taking a brief pause from his scribbles on his notepad. "I'm assuming rather well, considering the lack of complaints."

"Indeed, my friend. I am finally confident that we have examined and analyzed the Soul Jam to its fullest." Espresso remarked, his tone exuding satisfaction before turning to one of the researchers. "You there. Hand us the detailed analysis."

"Right here!" The researcher exclaimed, handing Espresso a thick stack of papers, containing a plethora of detailed information on the Soul Jam.

"Thank you." Mochaccino responded, looking through the pages. "So, what have you learned? Any new information about the Soul Jam?"

"Quite a lot, actually. Mainly, pure compressed sugar with no traces of impurities of any sort. And, as suspected, an unknown source of concentrated Life Energy contained within." Espresso summarized, the words leaving his lips with an air of confidence.

"An amazing find! But where did all this energy come from?" The researcher questioned, their tone brimming with curiosity.

"Am I to assume you have a theory regarding this matter?" Mochaccino inquired, looking to Espresso, a glimmer of intrigue in his eyes. "Because I certainly do. If I may share what I've concluded."

"By all means, Mochaccino Cookie." Espresso granted, giving Mochaccino the floor.

"If I'm not mistaken, the next procedure involves safely transferring this energy into a different receptacle, correct? My initial hypothesis was to use the materials that we had on hand and find a suitable substance and form through trial and error." Mochaccino stated, explaining his initial thoughts.

"Ah, my thoughts to a tee. What was it that changed, my friend? It does appear that what you propose was a former intention." Espresso wondered, a curious expression visible in his eyes.

"It's no secret this energy is extremely concentrated, almost dangerously so. If a volatile chain reaction were to occur... whether the Soul Jam remains intact or stays safe, I am uncertain," Mochaccino added, his words underscored by a note of caution. "Thus, I propose the use of substances as similar to Soul Jam itself. As they are composed of pure sugar, a receptacle of equally similar purity should suffice."

"In doing so, the chances of a chain reaction are lowered, and the Soul Jam would not be further endangered. Not to mention, it would provide us a chance to see how well the Soul Jam reacts to similar substances," Espresso added, nodding in agreement. "I concur, but we will need sugar. Lots of it."

"Fellow researcher, if you would be so kind as to provide as many sugar cubes as you can carry. We'll be needing them shortly," Mochaccino ordered, a glint of enthusiasm visible in his gaze. "Please."

"Right away!" The researcher called, hastily departing from the research facility.

"While they're off fetching the supplies, let us discuss further methods. We have the time, so let's make it count," Mochaccino recommended, eager to continue his studies. "I, for one, suggest compressed sugar. Assuming that normal sugar cubes won't suffice, then why not compact and solidify them further by using heat and pressure?"

"An exemplary idea. Not only would the condensed sugar be less volatile, but the additional stability would prevent it from being easily destroyed or damaged," Espresso complimented, impressed by Mochaccino's suggestion. "A most optimal approach, and one I'm more than happy to pursue. Any further ideas?"

"Not as of now, but I'm sure we'll figure something out," Mochaccino replied, his features carrying a note of self-assurance. "But, as long as we have a plan and the materials we need, I have no doubts this experiment will be a success. Or at the least, go through less trial and error."

Manor Oyster, the place where the illustrious Oyster resided, looked as if it were a palace. Lavish, elegant, and a testament to the wealth and status of its owner.

"Halt, state your purpo-" Oyster's envoy spoke, his voice abruptly cut off. "Ah, Consul. Welcome, Clotted Cream Cookie."

"Greetings. I have sent word to Elder Oyster Cookie in advance requesting an audience. May I enter?" Clotted Cream asked, his tone respectful.

"Of course, Consul. Please, this way." The envoy permitted, stepping aside to allow Clotted Cream passage.

"Clotted Cream Cookie. To what do I owe the pleasure?" Oyster greeted, an air of nobility emanating from her words.

"Manor Oyster is as radiant as I remember. The glimmering of pearls throughout its halls is beautiful as always." Clotted Cream complimented, his eyes taking in the sights.

"The affluence of House Oyster has consistently grown throughout the years. Especially so due to Captain Caviar Cookie's assistance." Oyster mentioned, a hint of pride in her tone. "But please, sit. Ah, a cup of tea for the Consul please."

"Right away, madam." Oyster's envoy answered, leaving the room in a timely manner.

"Apologies, but I'm afraid I do not have the leisure for tea. I must soon return to my duties." Clotted Cream apologized, his words accompanied by a polite bow.

"Oh? And here I assumed you were visiting to speak of important matters in privacy, which is why I've asked my aide to remain outside during your visit." Oyster remarked, her tone carrying a note of curiosity. "For you to send an envoy, immediately after the assembly in the Lyceum... There is something on your mind, is there not?"

"Truly nothing can get past your sharp eyes and wit, Madam Oyster Cookie. Your insight shines brighter than the most valuable of pearls." Clotted Cream complimented, offering the esteemed lady a smile. "Before we begin, I would like to extend my formal gratitude for your vouch regarding Mochaccino Cookie's judgment not long ago at the council."

"You provided an exemplary defense, Consul. It is because of the Cacaoian scientist that the Republic remains in good standing with the other kingdoms. Quite an interesting and intelligent individual, no? I could tell, to you, he is more than just an ally." Oyster pointed out, her words underscored by a hint of amusement.

"Yes, he is an exceptional individual, and a valued associate." Clotted Cream agreed, a tinge of fondness audible in his voice. "However, I came to talk about the events that transpired recently. The incident that occurred while transporting the Soul Jam. Unknown assailants, concealing their faces in masks of white, ambushed us and attempted to steal the Soul Jam."

"With the vast amount of news regarding what had happened to the ones who thieved the Soul Jam... it was rather difficult to not catch wind of such an incident," Oyster confessed, her features carrying a subtle look of shock. "Mochaccino Cookie, as good-natured as he wants to be, did not show a shred of mercy to the perpetrators."

"As I understand, his actions were in the interest of protecting the Soul Jam, and the safety of his companions." Clotted Cream remarked, his expression serious. "Which brings me to the point of this conversation. My mind continues to dwell on the ambush. They seemed to be moving according to an agreed plan."

"Cookies in white masks, I've heard. I'm unfamiliar with such a group. Do you have any suspicions as to who they may be?" Oyster wondered, her eyes filled with intrigue.

"I do not. However... No one outside of the Convocation of Elders knew of our mission to retrieve the Soul Jam. At least, not until the event reached the public through... less than ideal means." Clotted Cream explained, his voice laced with unease. "In other words, an Elder is directly involved in this incident."

"Hm... Are you sure you can voice these concerns to me, a member of the Convocation of Elders?" Oyster questioned, her gaze carrying a note of skepticism.

"I am certain that you, Elder Oyster Cookie, are not responsible. What have you to gain from such subterfuge? House Oyster is the wealthiest and most influential house in the Crème Republic. Why engage from the shadows with a group of masked Cookies?" Clotted Cream responded, his tone carrying an air of conviction.

"Ha ha! You speak the truth. Indeed, those are not my methods. Though speaking in such a manner is somewhat poignant, I must be frank, Consul. Each member has their own set of motives and schemes in play. One cannot reach such positions of power and prominence without ambition." Oyster remarked, her words carrying a trace of sagacity. "I am certain there is a member whose main interest lies in Soul Jam itself, rather than the imminent war with Dark Enchantress Cookie looming at our doorstep. It may not even be one member. It could be two, three, maybe more."

"Hence the reason for the utmost caution, madam. I have asked the delegates from the kingdoms to assist in a discrete investigation." Clotted Cream added, a serious expression visible on his features.

"You already have a plan in motion? I am impressed. It seems our young Consul was truly a perfect fit for the job. But, heed my advice. Do not be too trusting, I myself included. As a Cookie of the sea and one who witnessed the founding of our Republic, I've seen much change sweep across our nation throughout the years. I've amassed a great fortune of pearls and stand at the forefront of House Oyster... and yet, if given the opportunity to claim Soul Jam as my own for an eternity of wealth and power, I would not hesitate to seize the chance." Oyster warned, her tone laced with a mixture of admiration and caution. "Or rather... that is what I would have done."

"...I understand. But... 'would have'? Am I to assume something is preventing you from doing so, Elder Oyster Cookie?" Clotted Cream asked, an interested look in his eyes.

"Mochaccino Cookie. That speed... destructive capability... the intelligence he holds. I can tell he is a kind soul, but if thieving the Soul Jam is enough to drive him to such drastic measures..." Oyster confessed, a faint look of terror flashing across her features. "I do not wish to provoke his wrath."

"Though I would argue his nature would not permit him to take such actions, the stress that he experienced in that moment might have led him to snap." Clotted Cream remarked, his brow slightly furrowed in concern. "I will assure this does not come to pass again, no matter the circumstances."

"Pardon the intrusion, madam. The Consul's tea. Brewed with fresh oyster shells over low heat." Oyster's Envoy announced, bringing in a tray of tea and placing it on the table.

"Thank you. Clotted Cream Cookie, let us enjoy our tea. Let us enjoy it as if we were merely enjoying another peaceful day." Oyster proposed, her features softening to something more tranquil.

Mansion Custard. Home to Elder Custard, the power-hungered head of House Custard. His reputation, though impressive, was stained by his questionable morals and less than honorable intention.

"Sire. A certain uninvited guest has arrived again. Shall I give the usual response of sire's absence?" One of Custard's butlers questioned, their voice bearing a hint of hesitation.

"No, not this time. I will deal with this matter personally." Custard responded, rising from his chair, looking toward the female figure that had entered his office. "Welcome, madame. It has been a long time, has it not?"

"Oh! I am surprised I actually managed to come on a day you were present!" Clotted Cream's mother, Light Cream Cookie, expressed a note of shock visible in her eyes.

"As per usual, I am heavily preoccupied with matters of state. It would be wise to, perhaps, send word of your visit in advance." Custard remarked, his tone exuding an air of exasperation.

"I was just... strolling past your manor, by coincidence of course. And I thought to myself it may be an opportune moment to visit. My apologies if I am intruding at a delicate time." Light Cream apologized, a faint look of worry evident in her gaze.

"It is quite all right, madame. May I inquire as to the nature of your abrupt visit?" Custard asked, a glint of suspicion in his eyes.

"I er... I... How is he? I heard... I recently learned that he has returned from a faraway voyage..." Light Cream trailed off, her voice faltering with each word, referring to her son.

"It was of extreme importance and resulted in great success. Only a sharp mind for politics and diplomacy could have brought such an outcome. The coins invested in his education and training were not spent in vain. Were he to have remained in House Scone in its current state, his potential may have wasted away to crumbs. It is fortunate that House Custard was there for him." Custard explained, his tone filled with a note of pride, but not the kind of a proud father, but rather the kind of an arrogant politician.

"I am pleased to hear so...! To hear of his feats throughout the entire Republic warms my heart. I... erm... There is something I must ask of you... I would like to meet him, to see him after so long would-" Light Cream began, her words abruptly cut off.

"As I have stated, he is far engaged in matters far too important at the moment. The very fate of the Crème Republic rests upon his shoulders and distractions may hinder his efforts. He must focus on preparing for the imminent war with Dark Enchantress Cookie. It is time for rational logic, not wavering emotions." Custard interrupted, his expression carrying a note of frustration. "You are a mother of immense love and wisdom. Can you not see what is needed most in this moment?"

"Oh, um, but I... Yes. Yes, perhaps you are right." Light Cream conceded, her words underscored by an evident feeling of sorrow.

"If you are truly concerned for his well-being and future, then pray for him with all of your heart. Such impromptu moments will only cloud his judgment. He is in good hands. As Patron of House Custard, I promise to stay by him at all times." Custard stated, a glint of dishonesty shining in his gaze.

"Well, I... Thank you, Elder Custard." Light Cream thanked, her expression visibly crestfallen.

"Before I take my leave, may I advise you on this matter? You may visit on any occasion you wish..." Custard began, pausing for a moment, allowing his words to sink in. "...Though I recommend any future visits be regarding matters of greater import."

"..." Light Cream remained silent, her gaze cast downward, averting Custard's cold stare before she left.

"Father. I have returned. How have you fared in my absence? I trust that all is well?" Clotted Cream questioned, an interested look evident in his eyes as he, after his mother left Mansion Custard, had promptly entered and requested a meeting with the elder.

"Welcome back. I received word that you wanted to speak of the ambush. An attempt to steal the Soul Jam..." Custard remarked, his brow slightly furrowed.

"...Yes." Clotted Cream affirmed, his expression carrying a note of seriousness.

"Do not leave out a single detail." Custard ordered, his eyes fixed intently on the consul.

"Our party was ambushed by a group of unknown assailants in white masks while transporting the Soul Jam. The Soul Jam was successfully retrieved from said assailants, but we have yet to identify the culprits. All due to... an incident that occurred during the scuffle." Clotted Cream reported, a subtle hint of unease audible in his tone.

"The Cacaoian... Did you not consider the possibility such an attempt could be made?! You should have planned for every outcome with the utmost caution! Imagine the shame that would be elicited, had you failed to safeguard something so important! Do you know how much dishonor would be brought upon our house had you lost the Soul Jam?!" Custard reprimanded, a look of outrage present on his features.

"But that did not happen, and the Soul Jam is still safe. And I am confident it will remain so." Clotted Cream defended, a note of certainty audible in his words. "Mochaccino Cookie's intervention is the sole reason why we managed to succeed in retrieving the Soul Jam."

"That does not matter! All eyes of the city are on you! Many are already skeptical of your eligibility! Are you deliberately trying to bring disgrace upon me and House Custard?!" Custard exclaimed, his words laced with indignance. "It seems that the summit with the Ancient Heroes has made you sloppy and negligent. Tell me... What is your next move?"

"...I was unaware of the existence of such a group within our Republic. To prevent such mishaps from occurring, I intend on taking extra precautions and fully investigating the matter, both internally and externally." Clotted Cream revealed, an air of determination surrounding his words.

"So your plan is a cover-up... born from words that sound plausible but carry no weight. Perhaps I was wrong. This negligence... this complacency is not from your travels. No, it is a flaw inherited by your parents." Custard critiqued, his tone laced with a sense of disappointment. "Your mother was always easily excited, even at the smallest of deeds. You fool! Think of what I've sacrificed to smother out such imperfections from your very dough! It seems your studies and training have grown lax as of late! And the thieves? Have you found out where they came from yet?"

"No. The investigation is ongoing. No faces have been identified, for the Masked Cookies that Mochaccino Cookie... dispatched did not have the opportunity to reveal themselves." Clotted Cream replied, a flicker of regret flashing in his gaze. "However, we are receiving eyewitness accounts from Cookies who are at the Sanctum and the piazza. Another effort is being made to identify Cookies capable of breaching the reliquary."

"Obey my words, boy. Protect that Soul Jam. Do not take your eyes off it for a single moment. Do. Not. Forget. The future of House Custard and the Crème Republic rests on your shoulders. Live up to the expectations. Whatever happens, do not bring disgrace to this family. I saved you from ruination. I gave you power and strength. I've invested too much for you to tarnish the prominence of this family. This is all that's needed of you to repay your debt to House Custard. Understood?!" Custard barked, a note of authority present in his tone.

"...Understood." Clotted Cream responded, the solemnity in his voice betraying the emotions he held within.

"And make sure that... scientist is kept away from the public. He tainted the Republic with the strawberry jam of the perpetrators. Such a stain upon the nation's image must be wiped clean at once." Custard added, his voice carrying a hint of contempt.

"Mochaccino Cookie played a huge role in the mission's success. The fact that he had to resort to such drastic measures was due to the severity of the situation." Clotted Cream retorted, an air of conviction surrounding his words.

"You still advocate for that criminal?! Is this your gratitude for the mercy shown to you by House Custard?! Have you not witnessed with your own eyes what violence he's wrought upon those Cookies?!" Custard argued, an accusatory tone in his voice. "This is precisely why I ordered him to be locked away! But the other Elders decided against it, deeming him innocent!"

"He had good intention! And that is far more than can be said for you." Clotted Cream fired back, his eyes carrying a flicker of defiance.

"Are you accusing me of being corrupt, boy? Be careful, lest your words become treason." Custard threatened, his gaze narrowed into a glare. "Do not forget who it was that took you in! You were not a Cookie destined for greatness! You were merely the fruit of your mother's weakness! I took you from that pathetic, insignificant life and molded you into the Cookie you are today!"

"...I shall excuse myself." Clotted Cream dismissed, turning his back on Custard and taking his leave, his features obscured by the shadows.

"Clotted Cream Cookie! Do not turn your back on me!" Custard yelled, but the door closed before his words could reach him.