Bittersweet Aftertaste

The Start

A/N: Hello! A few things before we start. :)

I used "charms" as the treasures from the game. They basically work the same but the cookies can bring them as wearable charms that can be used or if it's a passive treasure it will work by itself.

I tried to do as much research into the game mechanics and the monster types I used but I apologize if it's not completely accurate.

There are graphic descriptions of violence. Now, blood is replaced with jam but that doesn't mean it will not be described just as vividly. ...but again I am not that great at fight scenes so I apologize if it's a bit underwhelming!

I am not completely sure if I should make this as a romantic thing between Espresso and Madeleine just yet but the thing can be looked as romantic and platonic anyways. Relationships are not the main focus of the story. I will update the tags accordingly later haha!

In we go to the story.

Madeleine turned to the voice calling his name. Gingerbrave was standing behind him, a slightly nervous expression on his face.

"Uh... Madeleine? I may need your help for a bit." he started, arms crossed. Madeleine smiled and put his hands on his hips, striking an overly heroic pose maybe even unintentionally.

"Something troubling you? Do tell me!"

"Well, there was this creepy looking forest we came across a few days ago while out for a diplomacy meeting. It gave all of us the creeps." He started. The taller cookie nodded along, listening carefully. "We thought maybe you along with a few others could explore it to see if our feeling was correct."

Madeleine straightened his back and Gingerbrave rolled his eyes, already knowing what was coming.

"Yes of course! I will handle whatever may be lurking in that forest so it shall not bother anyone else ever again!" he pointed his thumb to his chest as if swearing to his word. His cape flew despite it being no wind whatsoever.

"But do tell me, who else were you thinking of sending out on this so-called exploration mission?"

Gingerbrave thought for a second, seemingly unsure himself. "I didn't really get that far." he finally admitted. "I thought whoever would agree could go."

Madeleine's smile dropped for a second. "Oh. I see. Well! In that case, I can recommend my boy, Milk Cookie! I have been giving him extra lessons myself the past few weeks and he has shown great improvements. I think he would be a great fit." He turned, looking for said cookie for a few moments before spotting him a few blocks down talking to Purple Yam.

"Milk!" he shouted, disregarding everyone around them. "Come here!"

Milk cookie jogged to the duo after leaving his friend bye. He straightened up in front of them, a sign of respect. "Yes? How can I help?"

"Gingerbrave here was saying there was an area seeping out trouble we should explore and I thought it could be a great opportunity to show off your skills! What do you say?" Madeleine asked, a reassuring smile never leaving his face.

"I'd be glad to help." Milk said, smiling timidly at Gingerbrave who nodded back at the defenders. "Cool. You two are set then. Only need three more cookies."

"Oh!" Milk Cookie started, gaining the others' attention once again. "I think Mint Choco could be a great help for us. I'd usually go for Sparkling if I needed some support but I heard he is busy this week with some grand opening."