The Inquiries

At the Harbor, a few sailors were loading crates onto the deck of a large ship. "Heya, whoa there! Halt!" One of them commanded, halting Gingerbrave, Crunchy Chip, and Wildberry.

"What brings you to the Naval Shipyard? These facilities are off-limits to unauthorized Cookies!" Another sailor asked, a serious expression visible on his face.

"Huh... Aren't you kinda short for a guard? Hey, Wildberry Cookie. Wanna bet who can get through these two first? That punch of yours can pack a wallop, can't it?" Crunchy Chip egged on, his gaze challenging the larger Cookie.

"...Diplomacy is not your strong suit, is it?" Wiildberry remarked, a hint of exasperation apparent in his tone.

"Hi there! We were wondering if we could meet Captain Caviar Cookie! It's our first time in the Crème Republic, and we have some questions for him!" Gingerbrave explained, a cheerful tone present in his voice.

"Ya got kelp for brains?! The captain isn't someone you can just ask for willy-nilly!" A sailor scoffed, a skeptical look visible in his eyes.

"Yeah! And he's- OH! Captain, sir!" The other sailor called out, spotting the Elder approaching.

"Ease up there, mates! These are visitors from abroad! And they got the air of wanting to learn the ropes!" Captain Caviar greeted, a smile gracing his features. "Well, here I am! Wuddya want from this ole' sea dog? In fact, why don't you hop on deck!"

"The ship is adorned with various trophies and medals. Exactly what sort of Cookie are we dealing with?" Wildberry questioned, gazing around at the various trinkets scattered across the deck.

"Have a seat, have a seat! How d'ya like my ship? Ain't she a beaut?!" Captain Caviar asked, gesturing toward a nearby chair.

"I think there's something wrong with the floor! It's like... shaking back and forth like an earthquake!" Crunchy Chip noted, looking down at the ground, starting to get a bit woozy.

"Ya don't have any sea legs at all, do ya, outsider! What sort of warrior be afraid of some wee lil waves? If ya feel like your insides are churning and spinning like a maelstrom, take a sip of this, eh?" Captain Caviar jested, laughing a bit before handing everyone a bottle filled with some sort of liquid.

"EUGH! ACK!" Gingerbrave blew raspberry as he spat out the liquid. "It's so SALTY!"

"Of course it is! It's juice made from the freshest seawater! It feels good to have salt flow through your dough, eh! So tell me. You lot are from the continent across the sea? Then ya be aware of Dark Enchantress Cookie and the oncoming war then?" Captain Caviar inquired, his expression turning serious.

"Yeah, Dark Enchantress Cookie is waiting for a chance to attack. She's already tried to spark war several times. But the next attack may be the big one...!" Gingerbrave answered, his tone carrying a sense of urgency.

"Is that why the Soul Jam is needed? To defeat Dark Enchantress Cookie?" Captain Caviar questioned, his brow furrowing slightly.

"Exactly! Sharing the power of Soul Jam might give Cookies the chance to stand up against Dark Enchantress Cookie!" Gingerbrave confirmed, a confident tone evident in his voice.

"Aye, aye... But explain to this this... Do we really NEED the Soul Jam? Ain't it quicker to call up the fleet and go in with cannons blazin'? I can't wrap my head around it... bring some foreign artifacts for... research? BAH! Too slow of a plan for me!" Captain Caviar countered, his tone expressing an air of doubt.

"You genuinely seem to believe you can hold your own." Wildberry remarked, crossing his arms in thought.

"But of course, lad! You think these trophies and medals be nothin' but paperweights?! The blue seas surrounding our Republic are peaceful thanks to me and my fleet's campaign against the pirates!" Captain Caviar declared, pointing at the various medals he sported with pride. "If it weren't for the fleet, why, the city might end up as a lawless cove for a PARTICULARLY smelly turtle of a pirate and his lot!"

"Wow! You fought pirates? That's so cool, Captain Caviar Cookie!" Gingerbrave complemented, a tone of amazement visible in his voice.

"HA HA! You lot are as brave as I am, no doubt in my mind! We're all after the same thing, are we? And it doesn't matter whose dough is salty or sweet! Now raise your glasses! Let's have another round of juice!" Captain Caviar exclaimed, holding up his drink.

"Juice. How... original..." Wildberry noted, rubbing the back of his head in slight annoyance.

"This Cookie's pretty cool! He's got a fiery enough spirit like me and seems like a proud, strong warrior! Just like me!" Crunchy Chip stated, his face bearing a wide grin. "A warrior can recognize a fellow warrior! Believe me, the captain doesn't seem like a bad sort."

Next spot of interrogation, the Fountain Piazza, which was where Sablé was currently. "You are the delegates from the kingdoms overseas? Welcome. I am Sablé Cookie, Elder of the Arts. How do you like our fair city?" She greeted, offering the group a smile.

"It's alright, I guess? Still don't know what to think, honestly..." Crunchy Chip mumbled, his tone carrying a hint of boredom.

"Goodness, how so? We are the only nation on Earthbread for such a sophisticated yet elegant and dignified culture to call home. The Cookies of the Crème Republic spend their days in happiness and delight. Just look at the Cookies in the piazza: Enjoying life to the fullest." Sablé replied, gesturing towards the piazza, showing various Cookies walking about and doing their daily routine.

"Hello there! You seem to be in the greatest of moods, my friend!" One of the Cookies greeted.

"Of course I am in a great mood! Life is great and sweet! Our Republic is the greatest place on Earthbread!" Another Cookie proclaimed, their voice full of joy.

"And there you have it. Heartwarming, is it not?" Sablé commented, a fond look in her eyes. "The city itself is a work of art. Below your feet are hand-crafted tiles adorned with shells, coated with sugar to provide comfort with each step. And afar, the Lyceum: the seat of authority and power in the Republic, inspired by conch shells to express balance and symmetry. A prime example of avant-garde architecture and form."

"Can any of you understand her? She's... speaking... Cookie, right?" Crunchy Chip questioned, his tone confused as he attempted to comprehend Sablé's speech.

"Immerse yourself in the city and you will see more than just art! You will see true culture at its finest! Ah, speaking of true culture... "The Bear Jelly King" is performing tonight, a masterpiece which I have directed. The stage and its props are breathtaking! The cast is simply marvelous! I shall extend a special invitation for you to tonight's showing." Sablé offered, her expression carrying a kind and friendly appearance.

"Thank you, but we must decline as we are quite busy." Wildberry responded, an apologetic look visible in his eyes.

"Busy? And what may you be busy with?" Sablé questioned, a quizzical tone evident in her voice.

"Some weird Cookies in white masks attacked us to steal the Soul Jam! We're looking for them right now and if there's anything you can tell us about 'em, that'd be great!" Crunchy Chip explained, his expression becoming serious.

"I know, what an ungrateful and horrid affair! The Republic is not home to such nefarious Cookies... But... I've an idea where you might find answers..." Sablé trailed off, a flicker of realization apparent in her gaze.

"Where is it?!" Gingerbrave inquired, his gaze bearing a curious glint.

"Such a commotion can only be plotted by Cookies of the Lower City. The Lower City lies just below the Republic, with dense barnacle shacks and too much silt and mud for its own good. Oh, not to mention the awful, salty sea breeze..." Sablé replied, her expression souring a bit. "The Cookies of the Lower City do not appreciate fine culture and architecture. Rumor has it they are as rugged as the sea. I suggest looking into the Lower City. Who knows what they are capable of."

"The Lower City? OK! We'll take a look!" Gingerbrave agreed, his tone enthusiastic.

"Oh, and if you can spare a moment, please do come by the performance. It is the epitome of Republic culture for those of refined taste." Sablé suggested, offering the group a friendly smile.

Next stop, Paladin Academy. "AH! I used to train here every day! This place is just like I remembered. My strict training regimen focused on whirling my cloak at a perfect angle! HA HA! Have you trained in cloak whirling too, Financier Cookie?" Madeleine asked, an air of nostalgia surrounding his words.

"I cannot say that I have..." Financier admitted, a note of uncertainty in her tone.

"By the Divines, do my eyes deceive me? OH! Madeleine Cookie! The star Paladin of our Academy has returned!" Vanilla Sugar greeted, her features adorning a wide smile.

"Greetings, Elder Vanilla Sugar Cookie." Financier greeted, giving a respectful bow.

"Welcome home, Financier Cookie. Your mission abroad was no small feat. The Divines have graced you. Their Celestial Light has surely aided your endeavors. Join me in prayer! Let us thank the Divines for their blessings!" Vanilla Sugar exclaimed, bowing her head.

"May all who devote this prayer to the Divine Light remain crispy and fresh." Madeleine and Financier recited, both Cookies bowing their heads.

"To share this prayer with the two of you... It brings a tear to my eyes. This prayer holds a great role in history. The founding of the Republic was a time of confusion, of hunger. But the Divines blessed us with sunlight and Jellies, helping us build what we see today." Vanilla Sugar stated, a fond expression evident in her gaze. "And you, as warriors who adhere to the Light's commands, must continue to act with pride and purpose! And, not to forget, your role in helping the research on Soul Jam must also be completed."

"According to Espresso Cookie and Mochaccino Cookie, the analysis and research are well underway!" Madeleine replied, a smile present on his features.

"Elder Vanilla Sugar Cookie, we approach with the utmost respect and caution but... There is something you must know." Financier spoke up, her tone carrying a serious air. "The Soul Jam has been targeted by a group of unknown Cookies. They have already attempted to steal it and nearly succeeded."

"I knew that already, yet I cannot fathom how could such accursed actions be committed." Vanilla Sugar answered, a somber look in her gaze.

"We are seeking your guidance, Elder. Your knowledge and wisdom may aid us in identifying these Cookies." Financier added, her gaze earnest.

"Alas child, I cannot provide wisdom on matters I have no knowledge of. The only news I've heard concerning this matter was Mochaccino Cookie's intervention, which although rash, succeeded in retrieving the Soul Jam." Vanilla Sugar replied, a solemn look adorning her features. "But why are you asking me, I wonder? Are you suspecting me of committing such a disgraceful act?"

"N-n-no! Of course not! Elder Vanilla Sugar Cookie, you are the foremost expert on our city's history from beginning to present. We are simply asking for your insight!" Madeleine reassured, a bit of nervousness present in his voice.

"HMPH! Well, that could have turned out awkward, indeed. But look around you! Our Republic is perfect! Our Cookies do not even litter. To engage in such heinous deeds and crimes... The Divines will surely bring retribution upon them. The pursuit of them is not your business. Completing research on the Soul Jam must come first! Understand?" Vanilla Sugar ordered, her tone carrying a strict yet firm air, which prompted both Paladins to leave.

"Phew... Well-known is Elder Vanilla Sugar Cookie's temper... I'm glad we got out of there early." Madeleine sighed, his tone a bit shaky.

"The fog of memory still shrouds everything... Where is the source of the leak?" Financier questioned, her tone signaling that she was contemplating the events that had transpired.

But, the Paladins pressed on and walked toward their next destination, the Divine Sanctum. "Say... why are there so many youngsters in front of the Sanctum today?" Madeleine pondered, noticing the large crowd that had formed.

"The Sanctum provides free meals twice a week. Elder Mille-feuille Cookie is leading an effort to provide food for young children... Young children without parents." Financier explained, a thoughtful look evident in her gaze.

"The Elder is doing such heartwarming work!" Madeleine remarked, his tone conveying a sense of awe.

"Ah, and it appears she is here today." Financier noted, pointing toward the Elder.

"OH WOW! Jelly stew! My favorite!" One of the orphan Cookies cheered, their face bearing a wide grin.

"Please, please, please can I have some more? I wanna eat so much today!" Another one requested, their eyes filled with hope.

"Yes, dearest, of course. But remember to pray and give thanks to the Light for our meal, okay sweetie?" Mille-feuille advised, handing one of the orphans a bowl of jelly stew.

"Oh, right! Thank you, Divine Light!" The Cookie replied, giving a bow before walking away to enjoy their meal.

"I promise to be the nicest, bestest Cookie ever!" A smaller Cookie chimed in, their tone cheerful.

"Greetings, Elder Mille-feuille Cookie." Financier addressed, her voice carrying a respectful air.

"Oh, hello my friends. Such wonderful weather today, is it not?" Mille-feuille greeted, her features adorned with a warm smile.

"I am glad you are uninjured from yesterday's incident, Elder Mille-feuille Cookie." Madeleine thanked, his tone expressing relief.

"I merely fainted due to shock. I feel perfectly fine now. And the young ones' smiles and laughter give me strength. Now then, have you identified the Cookies in the white masks yet? For something so evil to happen in our blesses Sanctum... My very dough shivers at such a thought..." Mille-feuille stated, her expression bearing a thoughtful flair.

"We have yet to uncover any significant details. Do you remember anything from that moment that may aid us?" Financier inquired, her expression carrying a quizzical air.

"Oh, I... I was much too flustered at the moment." Mille-feuille apologized, her gaze holding a somber look.

"Then perhaps you have an idea or suspicion on who would want to steal the Soul Jam?" Madeleine suggested, an optimistic note evident in his tone.

"Hm. My first instinct is to suspect those who may benefit financially from such a crime. The Ancient Heroes' Soul Jam are, after all, great artifacts that may fetch a grand price. Perhaps the assailants were intending on selling the Soul Jam. Yes... You may find an answer in that direction?" Mille-feuille mused, her eyes glinting with a flicker of realization. "But what breaks my heart is that we, the Elders, were unable to protect you from this painful incident. On behalf of the entirety of the Convocation of Elders, please accept my apologies."

"No apologies necessary, Elder Mille-feuille Cookie. You are not the one at fault here!" Madeleine reassured, his tone conveying a sense of confidence.

"If there is anything I can do to help, you may ask without hesitation. I shall do everything I can to aid you." Mille-feuille offered, her features expressing a hopeful smile.

"Thank you for the offer. We still have a long way to go in unraveling this mystery." Financier thanked, bowing in gratitude.

And back to the harbor, the Paladins walked along the port. "What luck! I believe that is Elder Canelé Cookie!" Madeleine exclaimed, his tone excited.

"Greetings, Elder Canelé Cookie." Financier greeted, bowing in respect.

"...Hm? Have you business with me?" Canelé questioned, her expression showing a slight hint of irritation.

"If time permits, we would like to ask you something. Have you heard anything regarding Cookies in white masks?" Financier asked, her tone inquisitive.

"White masks...?! White masks... What sort of white masks?" Canelé repeated, her voice bearing a slightly alarmed tone.

"They are an organized group of vandals who attempted to steal the Soul Jam." Financier explained, her gaze serious.

"A suspicious and dangerous bunch! When did such a group form within our fine Republic?!" Madeleine inquired, his tone conveying a sense of urgency.

"I... I don't know anything! Hmph! I am the Elder of Finance! My day to day tasks on keeping tabs of imports and exports and checking the coffers keep me far too busy!" Canelé replied, a suspiciously defensive air in her tone. "Hmph! I am the Elder of Finance! My day to day tasks on keeping tabs of imports and exports and checking the coffers keep me far too busy!"

"So... Elder Canelé Cookie, you truly have no idea about this incident?" Madeleine pressed, a hint of doubt apparent in his voice.

"Of course I don't know anything! But tell me... the Soul Jam... Did the Soul Jam really belong to the Ancient Heroes?" Canelé inquired, her tone showing a sense of uncertainty.

"Yes. It is said to be their source of power." Financier confirmed, nodding her head.

"A treasure of that sort could fetch a hefty price. I must say... I'm quite jealous of the Ancient Heroes. All Cookies must respect their power, not covet it." Canelé noted, a slightly bitter tone present in her words. "Hm... That's all I will say about Soul Jam. Now, I must take my leave. I've much to do, much to do!"

"Our conversation with Elder Canelé Cookie has not revealed much either." Madeleine commented, his gaze downcast.

"I have a hunch that the Elder wished to say more... But what could it have been?" Financier thought, her mind wandering. A subtle suspicion had made itself present in her thoughts. Canelé's defensive attitude was something she would need to keep in mind for later.

Back with Gingerbrave, Wildberry, and Crunchy Chip, the two Cookies had arrived at the Market, a bustling area full of shops. "That must be Elder Baumkuchen Cookie." Wildberry noted, gesturing towards the Cookie in a wheelchair.

"Well, what're we waiting for? Let's go!" Crunchy Chip decided, running toward the Elder.

"Salutations. Are you perhaps Elder Baumkuchen Cookie?" Wildberry questioned, arms crossed behind his back.

"Ah... The Cookies from the Lyceum... How may I help you? Are you injured? I can treat your wounds if you wish." Baumkuchen offered, the mask covering the entirety of his face hiding any possible emotion.

"We're OK! We just wanted to ask a question about Cookies in white masks!" Gingerbrave assured, his gaze focused on the elder.

"And who might they be? I've heard of their attack on you and their attempt to steal the Soul Jam." Baumkuchen acknowledged, his tone calm.

"Yeah, we were wonderin' if you knew anything about them?" Crunchy Chip queried, an expectant look visible in his eyes.

"Apologies, but I'm afraid I cannot aid you. There are many more patients that need tending than usual..." Baumkuchen trailed off, a tinge of sadness apparent in his words.

"Erm... Elder Baumkuchen Cookie, you're wearing a mask?" Gingerbrave pointed out, an air of confusion surrounding his words.

"Ah, this... It was some time ago... A Light Fragment had caused some stir in our peaceful city. In retrospect, it was most likely a portion of Soul Jam... Capable of destroying the entire city. I was... injured during the chaos. As much as I tried to treat myself, the scars and long-term effects of that fateful day remain." Baumkuchen explained, his voice heavy with melancholy.

"Oh no! That's horrible!" Gingerbrave gasped, his tone sympathetic.

"One side of me firmly believes that Soul Jam is dangerous. The other is somewhat jealous of the Ancient Heroes and their ability to wield such power. Legends say their dough remains fresh and crispy to this day! That they do not age or ever get soggy!" Baumkuchen sighed, a dreamy note audible in his voice. "And on the other hand, there's me... frail since a child, too soft for my own good. I've always coveted those with healthy and firm dough."

"So that's why you became a healer, Elder Baumkuchen Cookie?" Gingerbrave inferred, a hint of curiosity visible in his gaze.

"Yes, I vowed to become the greatest healer in history. I've invested much into treating all varieties of injuries. My theories and experiments have yielded great strides in medicinal techniques. But alas we, as Cookies, are inherently soft and frail beings... My treatments can only go so far..." Baumkuchen confessed, his voice laced with disappointment. "As for the Soul Jam? I am quite fascinated that it provides health and preserves youth... I will admit that it is quite remarkable. I wish for an opportunity to examine it myself... Though I doubt that opportunity will ever come."

"That one is suspicious." Wildberry whispered, his words carrying a sense of mistrust.

"I think so too! And he was hiding behind a mask... I couldn't tell what he was thinking! And you know who else wore a mask? Those treacherous Cookies in white masks! Coincidence?! I DON'T THINK SO!" Crunchy Chip whisper-shouted back, a serious look evident in his gaze.

"We can't jump to conclusions just yet! But we definitely shouldn't let our guard down." Gingerbrave advised, his tone hushed.

Back in the Institute of Thaumaturgy, Mochaccino and Espresso continued their work on the Soul Jam research, each taking their own respective approach to the problem at hand. The suggestion of compressed sugar cubes had proven effective in creating a vessel to hold the Soul Jam's power.

"Why hello there, fellow scientists. How goes the research on the Soul Jam?" Mulled Juice inquired, a bright grin present on his features.

"GAH?! The Elder of Engineering, Mulled Juice Cookie!" One of the researchers exclaimed, clearly startled and taken aback by the Elder's presence.

"It is such an honor to meet you, Elder Mulled Juice Cookie! I...I... I... I BECAME A SCIENTIST THANKS TO YOU Your designs on toy planes served as the foundation for air ship technology!" Another one gushed, their eyes shining with admiration.

"And you created the ley aqueducts! Thanks to you, the entire city is connected to the mana network!" The third one added, their tone excited.

"HA HA, come now, come now! My deeds do not deserve such praise. I see that Espresso Cookie and Mochaccino Cookie are too concentrated on their own work! It seems they haven't heard a word we've said so far?" Mulled Juice realized, glancing at the two other Cookies.

"...On the contrary. We are merely focusing on finishing a crucial step in this current experiment." Espresso countered, his tone a bit sharp.

"Oh? Hit a wall, have we?" Mulled Juice teased, his features bearing a light smirk.

"Not exactly. This experiment requires a high degree of concentration and precision." Mochaccino corrected, a small smile visible on his features.

"You see, we are searching for a viable container to hold the Soul Jam's energy. I suggested sugar to serve as a receptacle to hold it. Mochaccino Cookie suggested we use compressed sugar not only for the stability of the product, but also the safety of those around us." Espresso elaborated, a proud smile present on his lips.

"Heh, it's common knowledge that by applying enough pressure, compressed sugar can be some of the hardest material known to a Cookie." Mochaccino chimed in, a thoughtful look on his face.

"Ah, just what I would've suggested myself! Seems like I was beat to it, huh?" Mulled Juice noted, his expression holding a sense of pride.

"Honorable Elder Mulled Juice Cookie, I was wondering... Your innovations have done much to advance technology and improve life in the Republic." One of the researchers wondered, their tone inquisitive. "But... why is it that you have decided not to lead the research on Soul Jam?"

"Huh! That's a good question... I guess... I didn't feel like it! He he, sounds rather painful, doesn't it? Let me elaborate. Soul Jam is a power that already exists in the world. But MY passion is to create something new! Something... from nothing! After all, analysis and experimentation are tedious work at my age. It's much more well-suited to those with drive and ambition, maybe even the ones who sacrifice some sleep as well." Mulled Juice answered, a wide grin plastered on his features.

"But your insight may be of immense help!" Another researcher pointed out, their expression carrying a slightly concerned flair.

"I am rather preoccupied with my own little experiment! I'm in the process of creating a mechanical bird that spouts water automatically! You'll be the first to see my finished prototype, Espresso Cookie!" Mulled Juice remarked, the gears turning in his head. "And, Mochaccino Cookie, I've heard things about you from Clotted Cream Cookie. Good things."

"Really? May I ask what he's said?" Mochaccino wondered, an intrigued look in his gaze. "Pardon the curiosity, just natural for a scientist."

"Of course. He spoke of how you are an exceptional physicist. Enough to... make me see a lot of myself in you. I admire your humble approach to praise, your self-made duty to help Cookies in need, and the drive to keep improving your creations for the betterment of a more comfortable life." Mulled Juice praised, a look of admiration evident in his gaze.

"Thank you, I strive to be the best I can be to help those in need." Mochaccino thanked, a small smile gracing his features. "However, I believe that this experiment requires my full attention, so I will have to leave our conversation at that. It was nice to meet you, Elder Mulled Juice Cookie."

"Well, then, I'm off! Good luck with your research! And don't forget to replenish your strength with Jellies and lots of breaks!" Mulled Juice reminded, bidding the two scientists farewell.

"Hm... Now then. It is time to invest all our efforts into shaping the compressed sugar." Espresso noted, his tone serious. "Let's begin, shall we?"

"Erm... Espresso Cookie. The commendation ceremony is beginning soon, isn't it?" One of the researchers questioned, their voice conveying a slightly anxious tone.

"Oh... That..." Espresso sighed, an air of irritation present in his words.

"Care to explain, Espresso Cookie? Surely the ceremony isn't that troublesome." Mochaccino inquired, his tone curious.

"You see, after the incident that transpired not long ago, the ceremony was... delayed for cleaning. But that's not the issue here. The commendation ceremony itself is nothing more than a mere formality. A waste of time if you ask me. But alas, it's something that needs to be attended to." Espresso answered, a hint of disdain noticeable in his tone. "...I'll be back shortly. Mochaccino Cookie, you will take on the role of overseeing the experiment in my absence."

"Stay assured, I'll have everything under control." Mochaccino reassured, a confident air in his words. "Expect great progress upon your return."

"We'll be right here, conducting our own experiments!" One of the researchers affirmed Mochaccino's claims.

Thus, Espresso took his leave and headed for the ceremony. The rest of the scientists continued their work, with Mochaccino supervising them for the time being. Progress was going to be made, whether Espresso was present or not.