The Enderdragon's Baker (A Minecraft Story)

A Day in the Castle

I made no effort to get up, enjoying not having to do anything. I've gotten into the habit of making breakfasts in the morning since I felt like I wasn't doing anything to help out. So it's nice to wake up and have someone else do it for me.

The smell of steak filled the kitchen while the furnaces themselves warmed the room up. I almost fell back to sleep when a plate was set down in front of me. I sat up quickly and started eating just as fast, my friends laughing at me for it.

"This is delicious, Eddy! Thank you!" I said, happily. He smiled, tiredness still showing in it.

"Coming from you? That's amazing." He sat down beside me, Endie and him talking while I peacefully at my food.

My mind wandered as I ate, remembering large feast like breakfasts and rowdy mornings. Me and my brothers racing down the stairs and shoving each other out of the ultimate chair in front of the chocolate swirl buns. How I ended up as 'girly' as I have is beyond me. I definitely wasn't like this before. Maybe it's just not having them around. Being outside the bakery, being away from the city, not always having something to do? It's made me miss them, and I hate it.

"You OK, Ann?" Endie asked. I snapped from my thoughts and looked around. My food and sweet berry tea was long gone and my friends were looking at me worriedly. When did H get here? "You were out of it for a while." I forced a smile and nodded, picking up everyone's dishes. When did H get food and finish it?

"Yeah, just lost in my mind." I answered, trying to shake away thoughts of my family. I went there to forget them, I guess I never gave Cobble Rock enough credit. Despite Ed's protests, I started washing our dishes. "What to do today is all."

"We could always head to the beach, like you said." Endie offered.

"Nope, you've got to wait for me on that one." Ed smirked and my eyes widened. Endie and H seemed just as surprised.

"Your really going to try convincing Notch again?" I asked.

"Yep, as long as you meant everything you said yesterday."

"Of course I do!" I answered happily. I wiped off my hands and joined them back at the table. "But now I have nothing to do today."

"Bake me more food?" H grinned and I giggled, shaking my head.

"As fun as that sounds, I do get bored of baking all day, H. But nice try."

"Well, I don't think you want to help me and Endie hunt down debters today so you've got Creeps and Bones to choose from."

"Ugh." I answered. "But I don't feel like a third wheel around you two."

"Seconded."
"Thirded." They agreed.

"You could always stay here again." Ed said. "I've actually got to work today but I'm sure you can find plenty to do around here while I'm gone." I looked over at Endie and he shrugged, smiling.

"We made a deal. As long as your safe, I don't mind you coming over." Endie explained. "I'll pick you up tomorrow."

"Yay!" I cheered, all three men laughing at me.

We all spent the morning together, each being gone by noon. I put away my clock and stood up, going to explore the castle in more detail. First, the indoor garden! I got lost real quick but eventually found my way to the birch door that marked it. I walked in and grinned, once again feeling warmth surround me. I was smart enough to wear a coat to the End this time but I didn't need it in here.

I left my stuff by the door and looked around, walking down the oak pathway. The room is big with trees and bushes everywhere. Flowers and shrubs placed throughout the area, both in and out of pots, while vines clung to the walls. I stopped at a little bridge, watching the makeshift river flow through the room. There's a huge garden by the pier that I use to visit a lot. I can't say having one is on my list, but it never hurts to be around so many beautiful plants. I spotted a bench and decided that's where I'm staying for the afternoon. But first, to the library!

After being lost again for another few minutes, I really need him to make me a map or something, I made it to the library upstairs. It's not big but it's cozy. I went over the labels on the bookshelves and found the fantasy section, finding a huge novel that caught my eye almost immediately. The thing was as thick as a brick, I think I'll be good for the afternoon.

~~~

"Whatcha reading, pretty lady?" I jumped away from the voice but calmed down when I recognized Ed's laughing. He limped a bit and sat down beside me, looking at the cover of the book in my hands. "You like fantasy books?"

"Yep! I always have." I answered, taking out a piece of paper to mark my spot. "Do you?"

"Of course, the dragons in those are awesome." He answered, smugly. I frowned, noticing the new short sleeve and the bandages around his arm.

"Are you OK?" I asked, pointing to the hurt arm. The other was behind me but from what I could see, it was fine.

"Yeah, just a cut. I'll heal it later." He shrugged.

"Ed, I saw you limping. Why not now?"

"I'm not that hurt." I pouted and poked a nearby bruise. He flinched away before relaxing again.

"Really?"

"Ok, maybe a little. But that would mean I have to go use the chrystal in my room for a good hour or more," He answered, smiling at me. "And I wanted to see my little rabbit ASAP." I blushed slightly and giggled.

"Want me to keep you company then? I don't like seeing you hurt." His smile softened and he wrapped his arm around my shoulders, hugging me slightly.

"Fine. As long as I get to hear all about your book. I can tell you like it."

"Mhm! I love it!"

"And that would be why." We stood up and left the garden. "Let's go. I can't wait to hear it."

"Kitchen first, I'm hungry."
"Your always hungry, huh?"
"Pretty much!"