sour-heart-treats

[sour-heart-treats]

I just read almnesia was his name and I am EATING THAT SHIT UP it's SO GOOD I'm going MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM DELICIOUS YUMMY IN MY TUMMY and walnut

THANK YOUUUUU I'M GLAD THERE'S ANOTHER PERSON THAT ENJOYS ALMNESIA <3333 It's one of my favorite stories I've ever written and I'm very glad that it's enjoyable!!!

#not a drabble

[sour-heart-treats]

[Hold Me, Among the Stars - CW: None]

Lights dimmed in a lavish, circuit-covered bedroom… Nothing to be heard other than the quiet hum of an obscured air conditioner… A leader and his researcher would sit beside one another at the royal's bedside. The gaze they shared was soft. Vulnerable. The both of them knew the other inside and out, and the adoration they held was easily recognized by one another. Xylitol Nova, ruler and creator of the very society they lived within, quietly splayed his arms out. "Here," the king spoke in a whisper, rolling his wrists to prompt his researcher towards himself. "Lay yourself against me… I wish to show you something I learned from Earthbread."

The other Xylitol, Researcher, would give a curious raise of the brow. "You seem to have such a keen interest in that planet. I do wonder why…" They'd mumble, following their leader's instructions and leaning into him. The difference in height wasn't too big, but it's times like this where Researcher certainly felt much smaller than they actually were. They waited patiently, watching the leader's movements carefully as they were gently wrapped in the other's arms. The motion felt similar to holding a Xyl-dog in one's hands, though on a much larger scale. Or, perhaps, it was more akin to the safety harnesses adorned by those making rare manual repairs? In either capacity, it felt… Warm. Safe.

"Ah… what is this called…?" Researcher would look up to Nova, eyes glistening with intrigue. A gentle laugh came from the taller, who adjusted his hold ever so slightly to make it more comfortable for the both of them. At this point, Researcher may as well be sitting on the king's lap. "The term most often used for this is 'hug', though I have heard others call it an 'embrace' or a 'cuddle'." Nova would lean his head down, setting it carefully on top of Researcher's head. "It is meant to be a display of affection… And you and I both know that you should be the first to experience it by my hand."

"Flatterer-" The smaller would playfully snip, looking down to the cybernetic arms that surrounded them and… carefully attempting to mimic the action. It seemed successful, considering the way that Nova's wings didn't even twitch to move out of the way. "I… quite enjoy this, your highness. It is very comfortable- though that may simply because it is you that I am being 'hugged' by. That is what the past tense of 'hug', yes?" The quiet nod brought a flourishing sensation to Researcher's chest. "Those on Earthbread certainly know how to create comforting actions towards one another…" They'd purse their lips, lightly tightening their hold on the planet's creator. "May I… ask we perform this 'embrace' more often? When neither of us are busy, of course. To savor it."

Little did Researcher know, Nova was planning on doing this quite often already. Or, perhaps they did know, and were simply being polite about it? Both of them knew how much they enjoyed being with one another; this was merely an extension of their closeness. The royal gave a chuckle, pulling the smaller Xylitol closer even if it made the other have to readjust their hold. "So be it. I shall decree that we will have mandatory moments to hug one another…!" The jest got laughter out of the both of them. A sweet sigh fell from Nova's mouth as he kept his royal analyst there. Safe. Warm. Right by his side, where they belong…

There's nowhere else the two of them would rather be.

#self indulgent writings #cookie run #crob #xylitol nova cookie #xylitol researcher cookie #sweet book bits #these two aren't meant to be shipped more like they just know each other on a very personal level #i like to think they did date in the past but then realized that both of them would rather be Like This without the partnership terms

[sour-heart-treats]

[Almnesia Was His Name Pt. 5 - CW: Implied Child Neglect, Memory Loss - Previous]

The scent of afternoon coffee wafted through the air as Almond poured himself a cup. The quiet sound of the kid who insisted on being his playing with what was apparently her teddy bear kept the house from being too quiet. Mug in hand, Almond wandered into the living room and watched the kiddo enjoy herself alone. Why was she here, again? Someone as young as her should be in school right now, or at least, on the bus. With a sip of his coffee, he'd take a glance at his calendar. Boldface Xs lined the top of the month, with more wobbly Xs towards the bottom. Seems like the kid has been the one marking the days off recently. Makes sense, it was hard to tell what day it was. And today was... Saturday. "That checks out." Almond would mumble to himself, carrying himself out to the living room and setting his coffee on a nearby table to kneel down next to the one that he still didn't know the name of.

"Hey tot, do you want something to eat?" The little one looked up at him, seeming almost surprised that she was being acknowledged. She'd take a second to process the question, looking down at her plush and looking... guilty? Saddened? Why? "I'm... not hungry..." The child quietly replied. Almond's heart felt heavy. "You sure? I could whip you up some, I dunno..." Oh, he actually didn't know. What was in the fridge at this point? "I can see what we have." "I'm... I'm good, really, mom." The title was familiar, but it still didn't feel right being called that. Alm barely knew this kid. The detective sighed, knowing full well that the kid was lying but deciding not to press further. The sound of crying children rang way too familiar in his ears. Something something, it's happened a lot recently, something something, it hurts his head.

As the investigator picked himself up and returned his coffee to his hands, there was a knock at the front door. Almond watched the small one perk up and practically start making a dash for the door. "Kid-!" Almond would cautiously raise his voice, "Let me answer it. I don't want something to happen to you." Especially considering how this very likely wasn't even his own child... the real parents would be pissed to find out something happened to her. Though hesitant, Walnut would quietly groan in annoyance and let her caretaker take the reigns. She pressed her stuffed animal close to her chest as she watched Almond check the door's peephole and become confused. Another person he forgot about, maybe. It wouldn't be the first person this week... Heck, she lost count of how many of her mom's coworkers and friends he'd dropped contact on.

Alm would gently motion for Walnut to get out of the way, and she'd do so, though of course tried to get as good of a look as she could. And with a second coffee scent with a hint of smoke being brought into the house along with the sight of brown and white hair, she knew exactly who it was. "Cappu!!" Walnut would chirp happily, waving despite the door not even being the whole way open. The reaction nearly startled Almond. "You know this one, kid?" The detective would ask, before sighing and shaking his head. "Good afternoon, who are you and what are you doing here?" As much as Almond wanted to sound polite, he didn't care that much to be. The person at the door furrowed his brow, but didn't seem all too bothered externally. "Cappuccino. You may not know me, but we're coworkers. Kind of." A rough explanation would be enough, right? "I'm the prosecutor that most of your cases' evidence gets sent to. I know you probably don't remember that, but it's whatever." Cappuccino would reach into his black overcoat, pulling out a few containers of what appeared to be leftovers. Looks like some takeout from the local noodle restaurant. "I brought over some food for you and Walnut. I figured we could chat, have a coffee or two, and y'know... figure some things out?"

Walnut, Walnut... Oh, that's the little one's name? Seems to fit her very well. Though this Cappuccino guy wasn't someone that Almond remembered, among many others, since Walnut looked so happy to see him... So long as he kept a watchful eye, things would be fine. "Don't cause any trouble." He'd mumble, opening the door wider and sidestepping to let Cappuccino inside. On the way in, the prosecutor gave Walnut a smile, which got some of the weakest sparkling eyes he's ever seen in response. Ha... has this kid really been without anything more than cereal and sandwiches for this long? That... hurts. Guess that's what happens when a mother keeps forgetting that kid's food is being made part way through and lets it spoil or burn...

Whilst the food for the three of them was taken by Almond to prepare, Cappuccino would watch over him to make sure that he wouldn't forget what he was doing. Though it was a little irritating on the detective's end to be corrected multiple times whilst the food was being made- he swears he didn't forget most of the things that he was being reminded of, though he truly did misremember- that wasn't the main thing that Cappu was concerned about. With Walnut standing by his side, he'd set a gentle hand on her helmet and sigh. "I hope it hasn't been too rough on you, kid. Uh... how's school?" Walnut would keep the smile she'd had since Cappuccino entered the house, though there was some uncertainty behind it once questioned. "Um... It's been... okay! I think! The other kids at school make fun of me and my mom sometimes... But I make sure they know not to mess with us!!" Cap chuckled, giving a brief side-eye to Almond before responding. "Not causing any fights, are you?" There was further laughter from the prosecutor as Walnut would beat on his leg and exclaim how she'd NEVER do such a thing. "Right, right. Well, if those bullies ever try doing anything to hurt you, get your mom's phone and call me, got it? I'll sue them into the ground." It's the least he could do. Even if his job had him wrapped up in sleepless nights, there was nothing that would stop him from keeping this kid from having it anywhere near as bad as he had it.

Seeing the young one hug his leg brought a fondness to Cappu's heart. It took all of his energy in that moment not to just scoop Walnut up and hold her like she was his own kid. He'd never be a good parent, but knowing what Almond was like at this point... it was a consideration, but... "Alright you two, the food's up." Almond's voice broke the coffee-named fellow out of his thoughts. "Get to the table, I'll get plating." And, wordlessly, he'd lead a very excited Walnut to the living room to sit around the table. The kitchen was too small to eat in, after all. There'd be small 'thank you's shared as Almond would come out with two plates in hand, handing them over before heading back into the kitchen to get his own food... though it was taking longer than anticipated. The little talk that Cappu was having with Walnut about the teddy bear that she eagerly showed would come to a concerned silence as he'd wind up staring towards the kitchen. "Does he normally take this long?" He'd ask, getting a shake of the head. Walnut would furrow her brow, tilting her head. "Maybe he forgot where he was? ...again?" Cap would mumble a 'maybe', only to get startled by the sound of an agonized scream from where Almond had gone.

It was a sudden sound, one that spurred Cappuccino into action so fast that he wound up hitting his knee on the bottom of the table as he got up. "Shit-" He'd growl to himself, darting to the kitchen. "Almond! Almond are you-...?" And yet there the detective was, a softly glowing hand over his nose with a discarded bandage on the countertop next to a half-complete plate of food. That thing usually never came off, and... not to mention that glow. Healing magic? "Since when did you...?" The stare the attorney got was that of confusion and mild annoyance from the investigator. Alm would stand himself properly, giving a heavy breath. "Look, I don't know either. At least my nose doesn't feel like it's on the verge of crushing itself." Ah, his voice was so much... clearer without that bandage on. Almond would stare towards Cap, "I don't where the magic came from, don't ask me. Look let's just," There was a small grunt from the gumshoe as he properly disposed of the bandage in a nearby trash can and took to finishing his plate, though not without a pause before picking it up as if he was pondering why the plate was there in the first place. "Let's just get back to having lunch. Or dinner. Whichever one this is."

Alm would walk right past Cappuccino, who only blinked at the very faint scent of vanilla. The small voice of Walnut gave the prosecutor a small start. Ah, she followed him and he didn't even see it, huh. "Mom doesn't like using that... But he doesn't remember that, does he?" Well, that's news to him. Never had he heard about Almond being able to use any kind of magic- let alone something so helpful. As much as he'd want to ask about it, considering the look of worry that Walnut had, maybe... maybe it was best to leave that alone. For now. As much as it would nag Cappuccino for not knowing...

The attorney gave Walnut a light pat on the back, trying to ignore the pain in his knee as that started to finally catch up to him. "C'mon, Wal. You're still hungry, right?" The heaviness in Cap's chest didn't lighten one bit at the weak nod the kiddo gave. "Right. Then let's get back to that. Then you can tell me more about-" Cappu vaguely motioned to the plush that the child hadn't let go of through the entire time he'd been here. "That's their name- Ted? Yea, them." And though the thought of her mother becoming less and less like herself would weigh on Walnut's mind, she'd nod and mutter just above a whisper. "...yeah, okay."

#almond cookie #walnut cookie #cappuccino cookie #angst drabbles #self indulgent writings #ask to tag #cookie run #crob #crk #cookie run ovenbreak #cookie run kingdom #implied child neglect warning #memory loss warning

[sour-heart-treats]

[Serving Who I Want - CWs: Minor Mention of Blood]

It was an eventful night that the hotelier had endured. The sounds of squabbling beasts just outside of Earl Grey's manor became much more than the usual outside noise when a voice reached through one of the windows despite it being closed. It was with a furrowed brow that he'd wander outside to find the source. If there was someone in danger, Grey would know better than to leave someone on their own. It was a faint reminder of what he had always done, in a way. Taking in the misfortuned. However, one thing that he did not expect…

…was to find the fallen prince, battered and bloodied by wild animals. Dark Choco's hood and cloak were torn to shreds, with already existing bandages- shoddily applied, though he will not judge- coming apart and exposing wounds still yellowed and scabbed… something certainly had it out for the poor dishonored royal. Nevertheless, that only made him work faster. Grey would call behind him and give a one-two clap to bring his assistants to aid him in carrying the prince. They were already heavy as is, but having them unconscious exacerbated the issue.

The servant would give a quiet huff as he gently pulled up one of the torn sleeves to check for a pulse. A relief, though not one that would lighten the situation by much. It was still slow. Weak. For a warrior from the Dark Cacao kingdom, he was almost surprised that they wouldn't be carrying around any weapon, even a makeshift one knowing how resourceful that kingdom was with its stingy resources. That sword of theirs- where was it? Ah, that wasn't something he could question right now. Grey could hear the crunching of grass and leaves behind him, denoting that his assistants were nearby. Medical work first, questions later.

It has been such a long time since he has seen the prince. Seeing his sleeping body so peaceful despite everything that had happened to them brought a smile to his face. Typically he expected to see nothing but turmoil and distress in their slumber. The sight brought a fondness to the hotelier's heart, believing that it meant that they would recover just fine. Grey felt a nudge on his side, looking down to see one of the teapot maids suggesting to him to take his leave and get some rest. They operated on his own magic, so he considered it his mind telling him he was exhausted. That's not a surprise at all, he was typically exhausted by this time- and this little extra predicament had only brought less time into his already tight resting schedule. "I suppose…" Grey would concede, beginning to step his way towards the door, only to wind up turning right around when he heard stirring from the Dark's bed. Ah, already?

Most of the time spent from then on was fine to Earl, albeit the air was quite heavy. He could sense fear in the prince's heart. The way they gazed at him, the way they kept closing in on themself despite how relaxing it would have been a lot less strained on his already malnourished and mistreated body. Well, to him it seemed malnourished. This was probably perfectly normal for a Cacaoian. Eventually, Grey would have to press on the issue, as much as he didn't wish to. "I know you are frightened by my connection to the Cookies of Darkness- expecting me to report this as we both must." The loss of eye contact Dark Choco had given only proved his point. "I am not going to tell anyone that this has happened to you… You and I both know how Pomegranate treats her subordinates…" Dark would grunt, shaking their head. "I'm not- I'm not a part of this anymore. I left." Grey blinked; now it was his turn to be the one with a startled gaze. "You- pardon you… left? Just like that? Goodness, I must be so behind on what's gone on over there…"

"I do not expect you to show empathy for who is not aligned with you any longer." The recovering royal would sigh in disappointment. "I will be on my way as soon as I am able to stand. I do not wish for either of us to get into trouble with the Enchantress for my sake. I am sick of her- I am sick of them." "You say that as if I am particularly fond of them, either." Grey would immediately regret his choice of words. Not from the confusion that it spurred from Dark Choco, but rather the fact that it was something that snuck past his 'I am fine with everyone regardless of who they are' facade that came with his line of work. "What I mean to say is- ah-… It does not matter who you are, who you follow, or whatever happens to you… Dark Choco, you are always welcome at the Grandmaster Hotel. And I am not saying this to ensnare you and try to bring you back- I would not wish that upon a friend of mine." Friend… Yes, he can call them that. Dark finally brought their gaze back up, prompting a smile from the hotelier. A soft, warm sign that he truly wishes for tranquility.

"I cannot guarantee you peace… I cannot heal every scar across your skin and what you have lost from your time in the dark… but at the very least, I can bring you some respite when I am capable. Does that sound alright to you?" Trust was hard to come by in the CoD. He knew this well. Grey offered a hand, keeping his watch soft and being as patient as required of him. "Even if you wish to leave, you can always return when needed. I may be busy, but there will always be a spare room open for you to take, and no one but the two of us will remember that you stayed here, for both of our sakes." And though a moment of silence would pass between the two… Dark would gently reach a hand out that absolutely swallowed Grey's smaller hand and shake, though not without hissing from their wounds.

"Ah- let me, let me get you some more ice…" "No need." "...It will be needed later, if not now."

#self indulgent writings #dark choco cookie #earl grey cookie #bittersweet section #mild blood warning #cr #crk #crob #cookie run ovenbreak #cookie run kingdom

[sour-heart-treats]

[Almnesia Was His Name Pt. 4 - CW: Memory Loss - Previous, Next]

The hospital lights were a lot brighter than Almond wished for them to be. Sitting in the waiting room of the hospital Latte had booked him for had the detective more than a bit fidgety. It reminded him too much of the times he was stuck inside waiting for a moment to escape and grab a smoke. Though rather than wanting to escape for a cigarette, he was more worried about his work and the discovery that there could be something wrong with him. His unfocused gaze stared so deep into the floor that he may as well be digging it out, he would only be interrupted from his anxieties by the shifting of his overcoat. Perking up and rubbing at his eyes to get a clearer vision, he'd look to his side and find Walnut trying to slink underneath his coat. "It's cold..." She'd complain lightly, the fact that there were metal arms on the chairs between them making this whole crawling situation more awkward for the both of them.

The older detective looked away for a moment, unsure of what entirely to do. He didn't even realize it was that cold until it was mentioned. Right... what would be the 'mom' thing to do in this situation? "Uh." Alm buffered a response, then decided perhaps it would be better to just give up his coat. It's not like he was wearing it properly anyway, even if the cold got to his body before it got to his brain. "Here, kid. You can have it until you get too warm, okay?" There was a happy little 'yay!' from the kid as she practically snatched the overcoat from Almond's shoulders and put it on herself with practiced ease. Ha. She looked cute wearing something way too big for her.

"Mothers always know best, huh?" The second voice nearly startled Almond out of his chair. Whipping around, he'd practically forgotten that Latte was here. Right... Walnut needed someone to watch over her while he was getting checked on. Whatever that entailed... he wasn't exactly looking forward to it. "Right, yea, Mother knows best," the investigator would echo half-heartedly, hoping that his heart that tried beating out of his chest would calm before he was called back. Right. Since he was here, he may as well pry some information out of his colleague. "So... how are they gonna go about this whole thing? Scan my brain with magic or something?" The medical magical field may be well-researched and strongly supported, but as someone who's run across so many uses of magic malpractice...

"Oh, no, not at all! This place actually uses a lot of alternative methods to magic instead! I know how you are when it comes to medmagic." He doesn't recall ever expressing distaste for it, but perhaps that's just his demeanor giving it away. "There's this one doctor that I've heard hasn't failed a patient yet! I'm surprised I was able to schedule something so soon... and something that matched your schedule, too!" "Sure, 'matched'... If my communicator goes off, then I will have to dart out of here. You know that, right?" "Well, at least you won't be leaving Walnut all alone again!" Almond does not want to acknowledge the multiple times he has forgotten Walnut at the local park or school from having to commit to his duties at his second job. If he has to pretend to be some child's mom, can't he at least pretend to be a good mom? Though... he does feel horrible about it, as much as he wants to push that into the back of his mind and forget about it. It's not as if he could remember the kid's name for more than ten minutes at a time.

"Almond Cookie. Almond, the doctor is ready to see you." Oh. It's time. The detective would take a deep breath and push himself up from his chair, feeling a lingering chill on his hands from the metal bars of the chair's arms as he'd take a few steps then pause. Alm glanced behind him, making sure the two were following before following whatever nurse was going to give him a briefing and whatever else. Height and weight gauging, going over the medical history he had- noting that he didn't have any form of memory issues beforehand. Whilst that was being mentioned, Almond side-eyed Walnut, wondering if she should really be hearing this part. She didn't seem to mind, though, clinging to Latte's side and just enjoying the coat that was far beyond her proper size. It made him... smile. Wally wasn't something he'd expect to care for much, but in fleeting moments like these, he'd find that there was something in his mind that liked it far more than just anyone else's child grinning from ear to ear.

Most general go-overs were a blur. They were nothing important and were promptly treated as such by the detective's mind. It wasn't until his mind was prompted back to focus by a slab of red coming into his vision. Oh... the doctor. Blinking back to take in his surroundings properly, he was sat on the cushioned bed-turned-chair of an examination room. To his side, seats filled by the two ladies that'd come with him. Latte seemed to be staring at him worriedly while holding the kiddo's hand. The little one on the other hand seemed to be curious about her surroundings and staring at the doctor who greeted them all warmly. "Good afternoon! I'm Dr. Cassonade... I heard that you all are here with some concerns about memory issues?" Latte would nod, turning her attention to the medical professional. Red suit, dark brown hair with orange-ish speckles of brown sugar darted through it, dark green tie, and glasses reminiscent of a certain lawyer... This was the one she'd heard about, certainly. "Yes! Yes, I'm certain you've heard about the oddities... We were wondering if you could see if something had gone on to cause this."

The doctor would nod, looking between the two in the chairs before raising their gaze to Almond, who stared back incredulously. "You must be Almond, I assume? It is very nice to meet you!" Such warmth would only be met with a gruff 'mhm'. Cassonade stood awkwardly still at the unfriendly response, though continued to smile and acted as if the moment hadn't happened. He'd head to the other side of the small room the four were all in, poking at some monitor with information that Almond couldn't see from where he sat. Probably a whole bunch of medical mumbo-jumbo he couldn't begin to understand. "Right," Casso would begin, "when it comes to things like this... I would first like to do some prerequisite testing. See what you do and don't remember- along with some general mental faculty tests! Now, most of it was done when you completed the check-in form-" he doesn't remember filling one of those out, but he does remember holding a pen recently for some reason, "-I still have other things I wish to check... Like response time and personal memory!"

The doc would lean out from behind their monitor and look at non-patients with a certain softness that Almond almost read as some form of empathy. "So, for that, I'll need to be alone with Almond here, if that's okay? You can stand outside, I just need the room for us." "Oh, sure!" Latte chirped, gracefully standing up and adjusting her hat with her still available hand. "Come on, sweetie. Mom's going to have the doctor make sure he's all healthy and happy, okay?" "Okay!" The mentioned 'sweetie' would follow behind Latte, though would keep the heavy door open for just a moment as she stared down the medic with something akin to scorn. Though she looked more like an angry puppy than anything else. "You better make mommy feel better!!" There was a laugh from Casso as they gave her a pat on the helmet that Almond found nearly gave him a knee-jerk reaction of a growl. Why would he...? He doesn't know this kid.

Once the door was closed, Dr. Cassonade would take a deep breath and keep that damned smile on their face. They adjusted their glasses, then reached into a drawer underneath the screen that they were using earlier to pull out a whiteboard, marker, and sterile cleaning rag. "What is this, elementary school?" Almond would state with underlying scorn. How is this supposed to show that he has memory issues? "I know, I know... It may seem childish, but I promise it will help! Unless you'd... like to just tell me your answers verbally." "Yes. Yes, I would." "A-ah, alright then!" And thusly, the objects would be put away in favor of some flash cards. Two packs, one with shapes, colors, numbers... and one with people- with the second one looking handmade. Equally as degrading to see. He's not five! He's-... how old was he again? Ugh, that didn't matter! "Now, I'm going to show you some simple images, and I want you to identify them, okay? If you don't recognize one, just tell me and I'll tell you what it is and skip to the next one. Does that sound alright to you?" Almond rubbed at his face, reluctant but nodding all the same. "Sure, sure. Let's just get this over with."

Answering the cards was a breeze, truly. These were things anybody knew. Animals, shapes, colors, and numbers, all things someone would learn in early years of school. It was almost patronizing how delighted the doctor was to see him succeed at something so simple. Every time they'd write something down, he couldn't help but glower at the medic. This almost felt like being at a pediatric's office rather than being at an actual hospital. "Alright, I'm happy to say that things are going relatively swimmingly right now, but... this may be a lot harder for you." That second set of flashcards seemed to tease him the way it glinted under the room's lights, which were still too bright for him to enjoy. Perhaps he's been taking too many late-night calls and the brightness was becoming adverse for him. The doctor took off the rubber band that held the cards together, picking out the first of what was arguably a very thin deck. "These are people that I've heard you've been close to. Family, friends, coworkers... All of those. Don't feel bad if you don't remember all of them! Heck, even I forget some of the names of the ones I've worked with for months..." The doctor gave a light laugh, then turned over the first card for Almond to look at.

Some dark-eyed person with brown and white hair, looking sleep-deprived in his black and purple garments. Silence fell through the room, a bead of sweat forming on the investigator's forehead from the lack of recognition. "I... don't know." He'd admit in a low voice, trying to hide whatever shame was bubbling in his chest. "That's Cappuccino," the doctor would answer for him, "he's a friend of yours. He's a very famous prosecutor! From what I've heard, you two share case information all the time..." Odd. He should know this person. Hell, he saw those texts a while back with that name! Ugh, at least some of the dots connected. "Next card?" Casso would ask, earning a hesitant nod.

A person with slitted eyes, wearing a cloak with an oversized collar. With glasses like that, some suit that seemed to double as a lab coat... It took a bit too long, but Almond knew this one. "That's... Espresso, isn't it? One of the Parfaedia teachers?" A coworker, albeit one he didn't speak to much. Didn't he work on coffee magic or something with Latte? "Good! Next one!" "Eclair." "Yes! The museum curator. You looked into multiple cases of thieves trying to get into his museum every now and then... And who is this?" "Ruh... Phan..." Almond had to parse through his thoughts for a moment, but gave a proper answer to the expectant doc whose smile looked a little less infantilizing. "Phantom Bleu." "Yes, famous phantom thief! Who wouldn't know them?" Hypothetical question, of course. Especially since the detective barely held any memory of who that was outside of some newspaper bits that he'd read over the past few days... with the exact details missing from his thoughts. "And this one?" "Oh, Latte." "Nice, yes! She came in with you, just like..." Though there was a given hint, the image before him gave a blank. He'd just seen her. He'd given her something to stay warm- though Almond had to reach back to realize that his overcoat wasn't there to remember what he'd given-...

There was a sudden migraine in his head as something tried to claw its way out of his mind. Almond raised a hand to his head, to which the doctor looked at him worriedly. "No need to stress! You know her, certainly..." That didn't make things better. Squeezing a portion of his hair to try and lessen the pain, he'd try to pry out an answer. The little girl with the sweetest smile and ponytail that looked just like her name... what was... who was she again? What was her name? "I..." He didn't know. He didn't know the little one with the helmet and little detective garb, who felt so important in his heart but was lost in his mind. Stress-induced sweat dripped down the side of the commissioner's face before the card was inevitably given a name. "Walnut... you know her." He should. He should, and yet... "I don't... I don't know her." Why did his face feel red? Why did his head hurt so much? Where did this sudden spike of stress come from?

The doctor would write a quick note with his one open hand and approach Almond with haste at the sight of the other's mental starting to deteriorate with the onset of panic. "Ah, it's okay! You are okay, I promise-... Simply because you may not remember your daughter right now doesn't mean-" "How could I not remember my own daughter?! How is that in any way okay?!" The detective's raised voice would cause the doctor to flinch, a few specks of brown sugar falling from their hair before they composed themself and took the patient's hand. Not the best course of action, especially if the patient was adverse to touch- he was- but... "Deep breaths. Your mind may just be a little scrambled right now. We still need to run a few more so we can determine what's wrong with you...! If there is anything-" "Do you hear yourself?! Of course there is! How could I-" Almond paused, breath stifling to the point where Cassonade had gotten worried that his heart stopped. But no... Something had brought a sudden soothing sensation across him. Or- at least- it left him numb. The detective blinked and looked down at the card that was in the medic's hand, seemingly mildly confused. "...and who is that supposed to be?"

-

"Wally, sweetheart... you shouldn't be peeking in on your mother..." Latte would give a very light scold, looking up from her phone to see Walnut's back with her body pressed against the door. Her helmet was set on the ground so that she could more firmly press against the hardwood and determine what was being said. And though Latte wouldn't get a response at first, the moment she gave Walnut a light touch, the child would rip away from her. Swinging around to face Latte, Walnut would look at the teacher with tears in her eyes. "He... he forgot about me..." She'd whimper, one hand gripping the coat that was practically half on the floor from her lack of height. "Huh? Sweetie, no, he'd never-..."

"He doesn't remember me!! He- he knows you, but not me!" A sob tore itself from Walnut's throat as Latte would kneel to her height. Her hand would hover over the child's shoulder. "I bet mom doesn't even love me anymore!! How- how could he-?!" Latte's heart hurt. How does she even begin to explain the situation at hand? "Mommy still loves you sweetie, it's just that he's... his brain is being a little weird right now." "IT'S BEING MEAN!! HE'S BEING MEAN!!" Walnut whipped off the overcoat, pausing for a moment with the cloth balled up in her hands while her breathing stuttered from the emotional agony that coursed through her. Though it wasn't processing entirely, she knew that she was hurting. Her mother forgot her. Everything they did together- it meant Nothing to him!! With a screeching yell, Walnut would throw the overcoat she'd been wearing at Latte and run off. And though the teacher tried reaching for Walnut, being pelted in the face with the elder's jacket made her unable to see well enough- or at all, for that matter- to catch her. By the time the coat had been pulled off, dragging her hat off with it, Walnut was already turning the corner of the hospital hallway.

"...oh dear." Latte stood herself up, brushing herself off and picking up Almond's jacket to hold as she gave chase. "This is- This is going to be a long car ride home...!"

#latte cookie #almond cookie #bredele de cassonade cookie #walnut cookie #cookie run #crob #crk #cookie run ovenbreak #cookie run kingdom #self indulgent writings #angst drabbles #ask to tag #cw memory loss

[sour-heart-treats]

[Cheddar Gets Their Tail Pulled Off - CW: Gore, Blood - Note: I know next to nothing about Cheddar Cheese but what if... Rat Tail???]

The sensation soon to become agony lagged behind any true action.

There was a yank, and the universe felt still for just a splitting moment before Cheddar's nerves caught up to them. Their spine dislodged with a horrific ripping sound and tore through their flesh by the attachment of their tail. Flayed skin and muscle barely clung on by threads of veins and lingering cartilage that shined beneath the swathes of blood that splattered and spewed from broken vessels. Unable to move, their nerves still shot a means to shake with whatever unsevered connections there were.

Though they could not move their legs from spinal damage, the rest of them would have to endure the violent tremors that racked through the detective's system. Cheddar would squeal loud enough to make their vocals collapse in on themselves, though the sounds would not stop there. It couldn't stop. The pain is worse than anything they could have ever imagined- burning like hellfire even past the initial jolt.

Hoarse cries rang through the air between short breaths, red pooling from where their tail and spine were still hung from. Fear strikes through their heart and mind as the agony makes the rest of the scene incomprehensible. A pathetic mess of a detective, attire now adorned and soaked through in their own blood, would only plead for a shorter end than this.

#cheddar cheese cookie #angst drabbles #gore warning #blood warning #injury warning #cookie run #crk #cookie run kingdom #self indulgent writings #this is very short but y'know what I just wrote this in a single discord message when some insp struck

[sour-heart-treats]

[Almnesia Was His Name Pt. 3 - CW: Memory Loss - Previous, Next]

Waking up bright and early for another day of working himself to the bone, Almond would give himself a stretch. Maybe 'bright' wasn't the right word, considering the sun wasn't up. However, as the detective began to raise his arms, he realized that one of his arms was pinned. With a wordless mumble, he'd open his eyes to find... That kid was lying in his bed. When she got in here, he had no idea. It was probably a nightmare of some kind that spurred this, which would have made Alm's heart feel heavy if it weren't for the fact that he wasn't sure how to feel about this kid wandering into his room in the middle of the night. What if she stole something? Broke something? She didn't seem like the type, but better safe than sorry. Tomorrow night he'll lock the door. If he remembers, that is.

Rolling back with his arm still pinned from the sleeping child that clearly made herself at home, Almond would grab his phone off the nightstand squinting at the red light of his alarm clock. His alarm wasn't set to go off for another five minutes, but he still wasn't up for turning it off and forgetting. Flipping open his phone, Alm would check through in his usual routine. Any messages from his department? No. Other messages or missed calls? A few, though there was only one that wasn't spam. From some contact named 'cappu ccino'. The investigator blinked slowly, opening the message without recognizing who the other name was.

[hey, i heard things are kinda weird right now] Yeah, no shit. Who even was this? Before even reading the rest of the messages, the detective scrolled up to see what else they've talked about. Seems like he's communicated with this person quite a bit. Friends, probably, considering remarks about sharing coffee and cases. Mentions of prosecution came up every now and then... Huh, was this the person he was thinking of last night? With a sigh, Almond scrolled back down to read the recent messages. Guess this is just one of many work acquaintances he barely knows but still is on good terms with. [if you need somebody to check you out, i know langue has a sibling who's a doctor.] Wasn't that the person who defended that one thief? The memory of some important court case lingered in the back of his mind. He's a bit skeptical about having any doctor get close to him at a time like this, but perhaps that's just the morning paranoia in his brain. He has work to do, he can't be stuck sitting in a doctor's office unless it's absolutely necessary... Or unless Latte would force him to, which she would, and will. [better than going to that pediatric place down the road.] [let me know if you need anything else.]

Yawning so wide he felt his jawbone crack, the detective gave a short response, slowly tapping out the letters with one hand. [dont need it lattes taking care of things thx] And once hitting send, he was unfortunately disturbed by the sound of the alarm clock blaring. Beeping ringing in his ears, Alm would almost scramble from the sound, closing his phone and letting it fall onto the sheets as he reached back over to flick off the alarm. And past that, there was some quiet whining as the weight on his arm shifted. Right. The kid. She was awake now. The investigator would pull his arm back when he could, tiredly sitting himself and deciding it would be best to get up and prepare something to eat. Not for him, but for the kid. Latte said so, and as much as he wasn't a fan of having to make something so early aside from coffee... he'd rather not let this kiddo go hungry.

There was a quiet grumble from the small one next to him, accompanied by a drawn-out 'mooooom...' as the kid rolled over and held on to his arm. There was a tenseness in his chest from the sight, which he tried to ignore and gave a gentle nudge with his held arm. "It's time to get up, kid." He'd say in the most awake tone he could muster, explaining himself as if this wasn't a regular routine. To him, at least, it absolutely wasn't. "We gotta get you breakfast and then take you to school. How do you feel about eggs and toast?" "Mmm..." Walnut would squeeze Almond's arm for a moment, then let go to snuggle against his side. An affectionate one, this kiddo was, that's for certain. He almost felt bad having to disturb her for the sake of his own early schedule. School didn't start until, what, 7 am? "Can I havvve... Scrambled eggs...?" She'd slur, voice muffled by the fabric of Almond's pajamas. "Yea... Yea, you can have scrambled." Easy enough. At least she wasn't trying to sleep in or was begging for 5 more minutes. The detective shuffled to the edge of the bed, trying to prompt the little one to get out by dragging her with him. Though she didn't like it, she'd listen, letting go and crawling out of bed to head directly to the small drawer at the bottom of his wardrobe. Almond took a deep breath, feeling his back creaking as he did so before standing up and letting Walnut go on ahead with what looked like an entire set of clothes in hand. Seems like she really knew the place... She didn't really live here, did she? Ugh... Thinking about that made Almond's head hurt worse.

The whole morning was blurry. The scent of eggs and cologne stuck with him as he blearily cooked breakfast and prepared himself for a day at work. The sounds of the kid's jabbering was grating, though it felt endearing in its own strange way. Familiar, too, in a way that made his brain feel sore. Was that even a proper way to describe pain? Not that he had time to really think on it, as there were some questions thrown his way that he had to give non-answers to. The commissioner didn't truly have answers, anyhow. For 'playing along', his reward was getting too many questions about what was going to go on at his workplace today. "Every day has something new. Who knows? I don't." Though he could've been warmer, and it didn't make him feel any better to see Walnut frowning at him from across the kitchen, being a positive morning person wasn't exactly on his list of tasks. What was, though, was getting into uniform. So, whilst the kid would eat her breakfast and get whatever else ready, he'd slink back into the bedroom and grab himself a new set of clothes.

Same clothes as always, just a different set. Dress shirt, tie, enchanted overcoat... so on and so forth. Though as he'd finish buttoning up his dress shirt, Almond would spot his visage from across the room through a dresser mirror. He'd blink, pausing his dressing for a moment to approach the mirror and stare at himself. The inspector would perform his namesake, squinting at himself and eyeing up a bandage that was set across his nose. Now when did that get there? He'd reach up and gently touch the bandage, getting a spike of pain through his nose that shot up into his head. He bit down on his tongue- hard- to avoid screaming. He held his hand over his mouth and nose, careful not to actually touch it as he muffled his cries with pain harsh enough to form pinpricks of tears. The lingering pulses of pain from the spike brought a great amount of confusion through him. It was practically dizzying, with the detective having to lean forward and hold himself up with his other arm. Everything felt like a blur- more than just drowsiness. Good coffee, it felt like something had just stabbed him from just a small touch! Guess that bandage was there for a reason, huh? Ugh... Alm would make a mental note of it, trying to ignore the aftershocks of what had happened to him as he went back to dressing himself. The bite marks left on his tongue weren't going to buffer out any time soon... And neither was the sight of his own self seeming so alien from afar.

When reopening the bedroom door, Almond was met with the young one standing right outside the door. It nearly gave him a heart attack, still not expecting to have anyone in his home. "Shit- Uh- Shoot, kid, you can't just..." He'd clear his throat. "Warn me next time, okay?" Walnut would give a solemn nod, holding her hands up with a pair of shoes in them. "I can't tie these! Could you help me? Please?" She'd chirp simply, much to the older one's dismay. "Alright, uh..." Shoot, he forgot the kid's name again. He'd try to parse through his mind to think of what it could possibly be, but wound up drawing a blank. Guess he can just... use other phrases, instead. "Okay kiddo, let's get those shoes tied for you. Hop up on the bed for me, okay?" Thankfully listening, the youngster would waltz over and plop herself on the bed, bouncing in place as she'd once again hold out the shoes for Almond to take.

"Sit still, tot. Don't want to kick me in the face, do you?" He'd huff a laugh, kneeling down and taking the shoes to slide them on one at a time. At least Walnut seemed to be smiling at the joke, too. Ah- that was her name, wasn't it? Walnut? Jeez, he needs to keep a journal or something to remember all these names that keep being thrown at him- through the phone or otherwise. Self-reminder aside, shoes were tied and both of them were ready to set out. The inspector reached into his pocket for his phone for a time check, but found that it wasn't there. What? Where had it gone? "I could've sworn I had-"

"Looking for this, mommy?" Walnut would giggle, having dug through the sheets of the bed and finding the small flip phone that most would consider ancient. "Oh, uh, yeah. Thanks, Wally." Huh. He liked calling her that. It's cute. Fit her like a glove, almost. Almond took the phone from Wal's hands, finally getting his time check. Ah, shoot, it's already 5!? Hissing out a swear to himself, Alm put his phone back into his pocket and looked to Walnut, who stared back at him with wide, sparkling eyes. Despite waking up so recently, she seemed to look full of energy. "We gotta get going." The detective stated, waving for the little one to follow him. "I'll drop you off at school, and let Miss Latte take care of the rest, got it?" "Yes, Miss Mom!" Walnut gave a little salute, stumbling off of the bed and following as close as she could. The two would exit the house, Almond doubly making sure to lock the door behind them, and strode down the cement stairs past the porch to the side of the road where cars lined up next to the sidewalk.

Whilst climbing into the car and waiting for Walnut to do the same, Almond would check his phone once more. One message from 'latte'. Great, at least he knew this name. He'd give a glance up to make sure the youngster was buckling her seatbelt before opening the text. [Got you a spot at the hospital on the west side of Parfaedia next Thursday. It's right by that toy shop you like taking Walnut to! They're very open with their times so if you need to change it up, call me! P.S. Please remember to give Walnut breakfast, okay? Thanks dear! <3] Not that he needed it, but at least that was sooner rather than later... Though he'll have to contact his department still. With a sigh, Almond would put his phone down and finish Walnut's struggle to buckle herself in and turn the car on. Walnut would give a grunt of objection, patting the older one on the arm. "Your seatbelt!" Right. "Oh, yeah... Safety first! Good thinking, Walnut." Seeing her eyes light up from being called by her name was something that made the tightness in his chest loosen just a little. He wasn't warming up to the kid, but at least it wasn't miserable.

Pulling onto the road, Almond saw Walnut nearly immediately gun it for the radio. Messing with the knobs on the front and nearly turning the volume up way too high for the older one's ears. The only thing that stopped her was when some jazz was playing over the radio. Huh. Good taste. For some reason, he was expecting some pop music or some rock music that hurt his head with how heavy the baseline was. "Great choice, kid. I like your tastes." Right, taste... Good taste, like good coffee... ... He forgot his morning coffee.

#almond cookie #walnut cookie #cappuccino cookie #latte cookie #self indulgent writings #memory loss warning #crob #cookie run #crk #cookie run ovenbreak #cookie run kingdom

[sour-heart-treats]

Ninja cookie angst please? Thank you!

[Unlikely Apprentice - CW: Child Abandonment]

Meditation. It is simply another part of a ninja's routine, isn't it? Of course, every part is important to some extent, and thus Ninja would never slack. Besides, having a moment not being in motion and jumping among the trees was… peaceful. Sitting atop a branch high in the air and overseeing a wide, rowdy river, Ninja's focus would be set on how the rocks changed the course of the river's flow for but a moment. Small rises in the water level as it pushed ever onward over whatever rocky obstacles changed its crashing course. Fascinating, an almost captivating sight that Ninja would be engrossed in ways that he'd rarely find himself stooping to.

Nearby splashes would push Ninja's attention out of the water quite literally- gaze sharply darting to the source of the sound. He immediately recognized a streak of green along the riverbank. Some young soul, supposedly a samurai… drinking directly from the river. Whoever taught this child how to drink from Father Nature must not have taught the proper way to sip. Rather than cupping his hands as he's supposed to, this kid was dunking his entire head under the water and taking gulps- soaking his green hair in a way that would certainly cause hypothermia had the weather been colder. He'd blink at the sight, deciding for this kid's safety to teach him the proper methods.

Standing and steadying himself on the tree limb he was meditating on, he'd leap off and use the air as his stepping stool to leap bounds over the river and land on the other side, startling the kid by the crunching of grass underneath the ninja's feet. The little one stared at him with wide eyes, though reached behind him, clearly reaching for a weapon. Leave it to the samurai to immediately become defensive… though Ninja couldn't blame the little one. "Sheathe your weapon." The shinobi stated simply, easily getting the desired reaction. "I am here to teach you how not to become one with the river in more than spirit." He'd approach slowly, kneeling down next to the child and observing him. With the garb he adorned, it seemed like this was offspring from the Leek Clan. The older would have asked the clan member's name, but… that was unneeded. Besides, he knew full well that it would be some variation of 'Leek'. "Here. Kneel."

One next to the other, the elder would take his hands and dip them into the river, forming a cup and ensuring there were no gaps for the water to fall out of. "Mimic." He'd command, seeing a moment of hesitance before the clan member would mimic to the best of his abilities. Though his smaller hands couldn't hold nearly as much water, it was still better than the method he was using before. "Good. Now repeat it as many times as you need." The youth seemed to be confused by the approval, seeming almost fearful with how wide his eyes were. Expectant of something far worse. With a silent sigh, Ninja would simply go from kneeling to his legs crossed. "I will ensure nothing bad happens to you. Continue drinking."

It was a heartfelt sight to even someone who's steeled his heart away for more proper training. This little one seemed so happy for the help, as silent as he was. Ninja supposes he can relate, being raised not to speak unless prompted to. Perhaps if this one's family were to leave him on his own, he could find himself taking an apprentice. Then again, this one was on his own already… "…may I ask where your family is?" It was rude to inquire. It was not the way to be getting information out of a child without proper need. And yet, here he is. The child stopped sipping, tensing as he looked between the water in his hands and the ninja beside him. He'd return the water in his hands to the river, a kind gesture with no true meaning for the nature surrounding them. In a near-silent voice, one that seemed to crack at the mere attempt at speaking, the child would speak. "Gone… went to the sky…" Ninja withheld his surprise, giving only a slow nod. "Understood. Then… permit me to pick up where your family has left off."

Hesitance was natural. The way that the child looked to the ground with a sense of shame gave Ninja a tug in his chest. Even so, he'd offer the lost youth his hand and leave it for as long as needed for him to make a decision. Which, amid a passing breeze of the forest, would be politely and firmly taken. A heavy responsibility has been passed to the disciplined. Though he knew he would not be the best at raising a child… Better him than letting the forest take this one's soul before he'd even finished growing.

#ninja cookie #leek cookie #angst drabbles #child abandonment warning #cookie run #ask to tag #this is mostly about leek angst rather than ninja but YKNOW #I looked through so much content trying to find ANYTHING of substance on Ninja and it was so hard

[sour-heart-treats]

[Nosebleed - CW: Minor Injury, Minor Blood]

Stumbling through a crowded hallway full of family members, the doctor would hold a tissue over their nose as he headed as quick as he could for the restroom door. An unlucky whack from some kid's toy ungracefully struck him harder than intended.

As much as he could treat this on his own, bleeding in front of other family members- especially the smaller ones that tossed pretzel sticks and stiff plastic toys at him- was not a good look. Bredele would keep his nose pinched, swinging open the door and entering whilst directing his attention immediately to the mirror.

"Minor bleeding, no sign of breakage in cartilage or bone..." Dele would ramble to himself as if he was observing a patient's wounds. Something to keep him focused despite the pulsing of the nerves in his nose responding to being hurt. "Pain in the area should subside soon... Bleeding should clot within-"

The sound of a gag would break the physician out of his thoughts, turning his attention over to his sibling who had seemingly been in here the whole time. "Ah-" he'd start, cupping his nose in his hand to keep any sight of blood from his sib's, Langue's, eyes. They wouldn't handle it well. "Sorry- so sorry, I just-"

"Please get out..." They'd state bluntly, one hand wavering over their mouth. "It may not be much, but I can smell your bleeding from here... Describing it isn't... Making things any better." It... Wasn't even that much blood. Leave it to their siblings to have such an accurate sense of smell, for better and for worse. The mere thought of causing some distress in Langue made Dele's heart sink.

"Yes, right," a quiet, guilty laugh brought itself out of Dele's throat as he quickly turned away. "I'll just- I'll just use the one downstairs... Sorry, again-"

"Out."

#bredele de cassonade cookie #langue de chat cookie #self indulgent writings #mild blood warning #minor injury warning

[sour-heart-treats]

[Turnabout Identity B - CW: Mental Distress, Recollection of Trauma]

The quiet ringing of a bell hung in the air as a hardened detective stepped through the door of a well-known defense attorney's place of work. The law firm was tidy and seemed like it was kept up with plenty of attentiveness. The investigator, Almond, scoped the area diligently, one hand digging through the inner pockets of his coat for his notebook. However, his digging was interrupted as a door to the next room over was opened to reveal the owner of the firm. Langue de Chat, supposedly. "Oh, detective! What brings you here? Come to bring me updates about one of the cases I have taken on?" Their voice was too sweet for Almond's ears. It was with a sigh that the detective would shake his head and finally pull something out of his coat. His badge.

"Actually, I'm here regarding the situation around your sibling." The initial fear the investigator spotted from Langue made him almost regret bringing the topic up. He hated these emotionally charged cases more than the ones where parties were more apathetic monsters than anything else. "I can always come back later, however considering how busy both of our schedules are, I recommend we get things over with sooner rather than later. Move this whole thing along to put the case to rest."

"The case... about Dele, right?" The attorney would speak slowly, trying to keep themself composed. Eventually, they'd force a laugh out of themself and open the door to their office. "Right, yes. The whole thing is still a sore spot, but better now than never." De Chat would make a motion for Alm to step in and take a seat in one of the chairs meant for clients in front of his desk. "Are you going to read me my rights beforehand?" Langue questioned as they closed the door behind themself and politely seated themself behind their desk.

"Hm. I'm sure you know your rights considering your line of work..." Sweat beaded at the top of the lawyer's forehead at the thought of not being told despite definitely, one hundred percent, knowing such already. "Better to be thorough though." A mental sigh of relief was given through Chat's shoulders relaxing as they went through the whole song and dance. At the end of it, Alm pulled out a cup of black coffee to sip- with permission- between questions.

"...with all that said, do you still wish to speak to me?"

"Yes." Langue spoke firmly, something that had become infrequent after the whole incident they were soon to speak upon.

Eyes honed in on the law practitioner, Almond would sort through the assortment of questions in his head, going over how to be firm without shattering what could be a fragile psyche in front of him. He'd take a sip, keeping a solid grip as he finally decided on what course to take. "Alright... Now, I know you may not remember everything considering the stress you were under at the time, but... I want you to recount what happened that night to the best of your abilities. What happened to Bredele de Cassonade, and why did you go missing for months afterward?"

"Well, you see, we-..." The name of their sibling was a delayed process in their mind. Langue would have their gaze drop to the desk before them, vivid flashes of memories going through their mind. The walk the two had, the severe injuries that- who- who sustained those? "We were walking. A nature walk. It was a break from work- we both needed it." At least their voice was stable enough... even if De Chat couldn't look the detective eye-to-eye. "There was-... There was this landslide, I think? Something with rocks. We both got caught in it, but she... she had been harmed much worse than I had." Pupils wide behind the lenses of their glasses, Langue took to fidgeting with the rim of it. "I- she... I tried to help, I did, but-..." A doctor can't treat themself. The doctor couldn't treat themself. The doctor treated... who? No, she- they-... The doctor didn't treat herself, no, they- what?

Their head hurt. The grip on the rims of the glasses caused a cracking sound that nearly made Langue jump out of their chair, breath hitching as panic started to flood their system.

Almond would sigh softly, putting his hand within Langue's line of sight and waving it to try and get their attention. "Take a deep breath." The detective would state simply, hoping that his words were getting through to someone who was shattering like glass in front of him. "In for five, out for seven. Take all the time you need... I am not going to rush you to say anything, I promise."

The defense attorney would give a near-silent whimper as they leaned forward and grabbed ahold of Alm's hand. It was an uncomfortably tight grip, but thankfully this old man's dough wasn't nearly as easy to break as enchanted plastic. "Th-thank you, detective..." There was half a thought to correct Langue and have them call him Almond much like anyone else- but doing so right now probably wouldn't have boded well for the person with the stability of wet paper. "Um, s-so... she- she didn't make it. I couldn't- I just- there was so much going on, and seeing here like that, I just-... I just..."

The typically composed and confident lawyer was anything but; beginning to wail and sob, Langue couldn't keep the farce up and let it all out. Crying with unabashed grief and fear, they'd lean their top half against the desk whilst gripping Almond's hand like a lifeline. At this rate, it may as well have been. "I couldn't save her! I- I- I failed as a sibling! As family! As- as a-" A shaking breath tore itself into Langue's throat as a sharp pain felt like a dagger being stabbed into their head. As what? A lawyer? Lawyers don't know healing! Mending! Mending- no, not- not that. Who would use mending for medical? Ridiculous- that's- that's just-...

"My... It was too much. I-I ran, I think. I just-... I couldn't st-stay, I couldn't, s-so... I got- I got... lost?" Good enough of an explanation. Speaking coherently was hard enough thanks to the pain that was shooting through Langue's head- let alone saying something that would make sense for the situation. They weren't even lying- they could never- so why? Why was recalling this so difficult? So blurry? So... wrong?

No admissions of guilt, Almond would think beyond the emotional stakes at hand, though there certainly was plenty of grief to sift through. The sleuth felt lucky enough that his hand wasn't broken by now considering the distress. It would be for the benefit of getting a less distorted retelling, and for the benefit of his hand not being snapped or sprained, to give a small break in the retelling. "Alright, alright. You don't have to go into any further detail for now. Seems like you have enough on your mind already. How about we change the subject, huh?" Alm was pleasantly surprised that those wide brown eyes were even capable of looking at him. Though... Langue always had green eyes in their photos, right? He'll set that aside for later investigating- right now there was a wet dog of a person hanging on his words.

"Right, so..." Ugh, now this was awkward. Almond tried to give a small tug on his arm, but Langue de Chat was absolutely not budging from holding onto someone. He'll have to work that out of them, then work more information. "How have you felt returning to work? Records show you have succeeded in every case since your return. Seeing some of them in person, I'm surprised your more cautious, precise approach you've taken has worked out."

"A-ah..." Langue would struggle to find proper words, but eventually get something out. Even if their voice was still shaken like a trauma cocktail. "I have simply... learned... new methods. B-being at work is where I feel I'm at my best! Defending innocent people, seeing them smile, it's... I-I could not ask for a better job, sincerely... Sp-speaking of, ah, cases! May I go on about one in particular I enjoyed defending for...?"

Finally, Almond was able to pull his hand back. There was a quiet 'sorry' heard from De Chat as he rubbed the soreness out of his muscles. That's going to be sore for the rest of the day, huh? Ugh, figures. "So long as you aren't breaking any contracts and the case is already settled, then sure. Go wild."

...funny. Langue never seemed like the type to ask permission before rambling, did they?

#ask to tag #self indulgent writings #almond cookie #langue de chat cookie #bredele de cassonade cookie #mental distress warning

[sour-heart-treats]

[Turnabout Identity - CW: Murder, Death, and Mental Distress]

There's something... odd, seeing someone stop moving. Stop breathing. Stop... living. The doctor took a shaking breath as resuscitation was useless- and before them laid someone of high importance. Unmoving. Not a single sign of life. Bredele de Cassonade would laugh weakly, hands still over their sibling's chest that refused to give any form of movement. The blood inside of her was unmoving, and they knew there was no way back up from this. No amount of restorative magic nor medical equipment could fix this.

Feeling over Langue's stomach at the flesh that had warped itself together like plastic under a heat gun, Bredele's stomach twisted as the realization slowly dawned on them that their sibling was... dead. Gone. Permanently taken from them. Though it did not process fully, the doctor would grip the flesh in their hands- though not enough to hurt, as if there was some part that still believed that Langue was alive. Still with them. Still... them? The practitioner shook their head, too stunned to realize how their tears were falling and wetting what was an already dirty and tattered suit. Was this Hell? It felt like it.

Hell was the only appropriate name for a place like this- a place where De Cassonade had finally failed their job as a doctor- as a savior- as a family member. Bright red and the darkened red of staining blood would coat the doctor's vision, unable to process their sibling's expression of terror that would be forever her last expression. A faceless body, unrecognizable despite being in clear sight beyond the tears. Being begged not to operate... What a fool. Langue would never have made such a mistake, forcing such a terrible fate onto someone so dear. Langue... oh, de Chat... Only the dead go to Hell, don't they? Then what was she doing here?

Motions felt like a blur. Standing up felt like digging themself out of the ground that they'd be burying their sibling in. Gently plucking the glasses from their blurred-out face, the other sibling wondered about the name of the one before them. Taking her suitcase, searching her pockets, patiently buttoning her suit back up as if preparing her for a burial... The only one alive would stand with a slump, looking down at the mass of motionless flesh that lay before them. That was... Bredele, wasn't it? Right. It only makes sense a doctor can't operate on themself. But what does she know? She's just a lawyer.

Swaying where she stood, De Cass-, no, De Chat would push through the dizziness and search through the suitcase she had picked up from the body before her. 911. Her parents. The conversations felt silent- not a single word processing as her legs began to carry her home. Phone in one hand, suitcase in the other... living behind something that her brain couldn't piece together. Something happened in the woods. Bredele wasn't moving. She'll be home soon. Feeling as if she was peering from the back of her own head, Langue would continue to wobbly step through the woods, leaving behind mistakes that she'd never make. Her sibling though? Ha. Maybe... just maybe they would.

#self indulgent writings #murder warning #langue de chat cookie #bredele de cassonade cookie #death warning #mental distress warning #reblogging my oc writings here since yall may actually wanna see them teehee

[sour-heart-treats]

[Almnesia was His Name Pt.2 - CW: Memory Loss, Minor Alcohol Mention - Previous, Next]

Putting the kid to bed was a lot easier than he'd expected. Once tucked into the blanket, she was out like a light. Almond closed the door to the child's room as slowly as possible, taking care not to have it creak while he did so to wake the little one back up. It was with a heavy sigh that Alm would pull out his flip phone and scroll through his contacts. Despite not recognizing half of the list, he'd find Latte's number and give it a ring. Sure, it was late, but Latte was probably partway through her bedtime routine. Probably. So inconsistent, that professor...

"Hellooo?" The warm voice of the fellow professor was nice to hear, though he can't linger on that. "Latte. You left a kid at my house today, right?" Straight and to the point, getting Latte to pause before she'd respond, bewildered. "Um. Yes? Hun, I hope you're not referring to Walnut as just 'a' kid." Yes, he was. "Right, Walnut. Why did you bring her here?" Such seriousness in his tone only seemed to make the latte mage on the other line all the more confused. "Because that's... where she lives? With you? Almond, sweetie, you're acting awfully odd..." It almost felt like an impromptu interrogation. Then again, that's just a part of the detective's life when it comes to getting information. Hell, he'd even wandered to the living room for the sake of having more space to walk around. "Latte, I don't know where you got that information, but I am certain that I don't have a child. You just dropped someone's child at my house without telling me."

The silence on the phone was deafening. What felt like a full minute would pass before Latte would pipe up again, even with Almond prodding with a slightly irritated 'Well?' to the quiet. Had she been drunk? Was she still tipsy or something? "Almond..." Latte would start, voice more worried than anything else. "Walnut is your child... what are you talking about?" There was some sort of shuffling on the other side of the line, that of which the investigator couldn't decipher. "What are YOU talking about?" He didn't mean to raise his voice promptly clearing his throat to correct himself. "Look, I dunno what's going on here, but this is some sick joke if you think tricking a kid into thinking I'm her mom... What, was she an orphan and you took pity?"

"Good coffee..." "Dear sweet stars..."

The similar reactions would have brought out a laugh from at least one of them if it weren't for the strange circumstances they were in. Latte would continue whatever scrambling that was catching on the line. It sounded like papers getting flipped and tossed around. Then again, Alm wasn't any better, pacing circles around a coffee table. "Almond, sweetheart. I think... I think we should have you see a doctor." The uncertainty in the mage's voice was palpable. 'There's no way...' she'd whisper to herself, unaware that her phone caught it. "I mean this with the utmost truth. If you're acting like this... I don't know what, but I think something's wrong with your memory." "You're calling me crazy?" "No, not that at all! Goodness, what is with you...?" Something that she didn't understand, but that sudden aggression felt very out of place. Was the stress getting to him? Was that it? "Look, I'll try and schedule something for you within the week. Just... stick with her until then? Play along?" Great. Almond put a hand to his forehead in irritation. "I already have two jobs, and now I have to take care of a kid on top of that? As a single 'parent'? Latte, I don't think you know what you're asking me. I'm not even good with kids." There was a laugh that the detective nearly took offense to, but the other professor would speak before that would let itself sink in. "From what I've seen, you're great with kids! Especially ones like her."

The remark made Almond scoff, getting him to cross his arms. Well, arm considering one was holding his phone. Him? Good with kids? Doubtful.

"Fine. But if this is some trick, you're never going to hear the end of it. My prosecutor friend will hear of you." The private eye would give a small snicker, unsure if he's laughing at the ridiculousness of the situation or the fact that he may just have to resort to filing a case of child abandonment and endangerment. What was the name of that prosecutor, anyway? Eh, he'd remember later. At least Latte seemed to find the remark entertaining. "Sure, sure. Take care of yourself, hun." It's always odd hearing her speak so maternally when he's the older one here. "And hey... Make sure to make Walnut breakfast, okay?" How old was this kid if she couldn't even make food for herself? When he was her age, he-... Almond shook his head, he didn't even remember what it was like back then. Though, he had a feeling he didn't really want to. Some faint and unpleasant vanilla scent came to mind.

"Guess I'm being forced to care for someone else's kid... Fun." He could hear the younger professor sigh on the other side of the line. At least all that incessant background noise had stopped. "It will be just for a week at most, I promise. Please take care of her, okay?" Almond rolled his eyes. "With how you're talking now, makes me think that she's your kid rather than mine." The dry laugh that the mage would give wasn't reciprocated. "And give up my free time? Love," "Don't call me that." The detective snipped. "...just know that I wouldn't ever have a child if my life depended on it." The unnaturally dead seriousness was certainly enough to make the sentence believable. Though her pitch would upturn; "I get enough of kids at work, anyways! Plus, with how much Creampuff is around, I'm practically her mother anyhow." Why did that name barely ring a bell?

Almond dismissed the accusation in his mind, figuring there was no way that Latte would ever withstand being a mother to two kids. She was too lax for even one, but that's not his place to judge. "Right, right... Let me know whenever you have that appointment set so I can schedule off. Or... try to." The M.E.H. was so strict on time off he'd be lucky to get even a few hours 'off-duty', let alone not being on-call in case something happened. Latte would give a small 'mhm', voice getting quieter, probably from the phone being moved away from her face. "I'll let you know as soon as I can. And if there are any scheduling conflicts, I can always reschedule it. Uh... Is there anything else that you need to discuss?" "Not that I can think of... I just needed some information on the kid situation. You can get back to your routine." There was a breath of relief from Latte. At least he remembered something as silly as her routine, even if he didn't remember something as major as Walnut's entire existence. She'll... she'll get this sorted, certainly.

"Right, then... 'Night, hun." "Goodnight, Latte."

Without someone on the phone, the darkness of the living room finally sank in, along with the silence. It felt almost... lonely. Blinking slowly and processing the room before him, Almond would have his thoughts wander to the possibility of actually enjoying having someone around. He valued his alone time, certainly, but... Maybe this 'Walnut' kid would provide a little bit of life to the house. 'Play along,' he was told. So just... pretend to be that child's mother? It's worth a shot. Hell, maybe after that doctor's visit he can prove that he's not going mad or something worse. Running a hand through his hair, he noted the texture of grease. A hot shower before bed didn't sound too bad for his aching bones. The thought of being called a 'Roasted Almond' came to mind as he wandered out of the living room to head to the bathroom. It brought a smirk to his face as he tried to think about who would call him that. Ha... Sounds like something a kid would do.

Not his kid, though. He didn't have one. ...not until now, apparently.

#almond cookie #latte cookie #crob #cookie run #angst drabbles #self indulgent writings #ask to tag #alcohol mention warning #amnesia warning

[sour-heart-treats]

So since that last post had a different formatting than what I've been doing, what do you guys think? Would y'all prefer that or how I've been doing them up until now?

#not a drabble

[sour-heart-treats]

[Almnesia was His Name - CW: Memory Loss - Next]

Unlocking the door to his warm little home, the detective known as Almond would step in and set to work on relaxing for the evening. It's with a solemn smile that he would lock the door behind him and begin his waltz into his kitchen and make use of a coffee machine that's nearly as overworked as he is. Though the day was mostly a blur to him, apparently his colleagues told him he'd done good work as usual, even if some assailant got away. Alm couldn't recall who the criminal was or the fact that he was supposedly attacked by them, but hey, can't remember every single encounter he's had. Not in his old age, certainly.

The coffee machine beeped loud enough to bring the detective out of his hazy thoughts, and after waiting a few moments to let the machine finish its dripping, he'd grab one of his glass mugs from the above cupboards and scavenge through the kitchen drawers until he found where he left his sugar and creamer. With all that and a spoon to stir with, Almond would pour and mix himself up a coffee sweet as icing. Ah, good coffee... and hot! It's a good thing no one else was home, otherwise, he'd have to drink it black for the sake of his hard-boiled appeara-

Taptaptaptap-

The sound of footsteps nearly made Almond spit out his coffee. Someone was in here? Who? Was it that someone he was hearing about at his job earlier? His hand reached into the inner pockets of his jacket, manifesting his enchanted cuffs. The investigator had half a thought to call out to whoever it was that was wandering his home uninvited, but kept quiet as he'd prepare himself for whoever decided to make his home into a B and E. He's in his own home, it's self-defense.

The steps would get closer, and though Almond was ready to pounce at any point, what he winded up seeing was something that he hadn't expected. A... child? A little kid. Hair tucked to the side in a unique nut-like shape, nutshell hat on the head, looking at him adoringly. Uh. Alm blinked, softening and putting away his cuffs as the young one entered the room and walked up to hug his legs as if this one's known him for years. "I missed you!!" Uh. "Miss Latte brought me home today because she said you were busy! I hope you didn't work TOO hard again!!" How did this little one know Latte? Was this one of his students? If that was the case, then why would the other professor bring this one here?

Something didn't sit right here. What kind of act was this little girl putting on? "Uh... kid...?" He'd start, hesitantly, feeling almost guilty the way that this child looked at him with glimmering eyes. "How did you get in here?" He'd ask with full earnest, "When did you? The door's always locked when I leave." The kid blinked at him, looking perplexed, then worried. "Mom..." She'd speak quietly, voice full of disappointment. Unaware of the true meaning, Alm would take it as some kind of plea. "Did something happen to your mom? See, honey-" Almond would rifle through his clothes to find his badge. "I'm a detective. If something happened to your mom, I'm sure I can find out." And in response, the child would tear up and cling closer to Almond's legs. "Uh," he'd instinctively let out a surprised grunt and sigh afterward. This was exasperating. "...poor youngster."

The sounds of crying would permeate the air, ruining Almond's desire to drink his freshly brewed bean juice. Though it was awkward, the detective would put away his badge and instead try to comfort the little one by patting her on the head. Well, headpiece, but close enough. The child would sniffle, "This... this is a joke, right, mom...? Don't be mean..." Ah, so... HE was supposed to be this kid's mom? That... he doesn't remember ever having a child. Or did he? Ugh, why was his head pounding at the thought...? "Kid, I don't know who your mom is, but... I don't think that's me. But until we find her-" "-him-" "him, I guess you can stay with me, got it?" That question didn't make things better. Crying even harder, tears flowing like a waterfall, the investigator would breathe a heavy sigh as the young one pressed her face into his pant leg. "Sorry, kiddo..." He'd apologize, though wouldn't finish his sentence. What was Alm even supposed to be apologizing for? For not being this youth's mom?

Trying to brighten the mood even just a little, the inspector would try to bring his pitch up. Use the tone he uses with his students when they're getting frustrated with homework. "Say, uh... what's your name? Let's start there." "So mean! You know my name!" Though the elder wanted to retort that he truly didn't know, he'd get his answer anyway. "It's Walnut! I'm Walnut! Mom, stop joking with me!" "I'm not-" Ack, brain ache... Almond set a hand to his head and hissed, though tried to keep his reaction diminished to not worry the child in front of him more than he already had. Well, worry... more like upset. Greatly upset. That name didn't sit well in his brain, apparently. What a migraine... "Okay, Walnut, let's-..." Alm shook his head. "Are you hungry? Maybe you'll feel better if you eat something... And we can go from there."

#almond cookie #walnut cookie #cookie run #crob #cookie run ovenbreak #angst drabbles #self indulgent writings #memory loss warning #amnesia warning #Walnut calls Almond mom and i'm not changing this- it is simply a fact

[sour-heart-treats]

walnut going a *little* too far in her pursuit for roguefort (sarcasm in the little, if it wasnt obvious)

Though exhaustion racked her body, Walnut would keep her little legs carrying her higher and higher. Up flight after flight of stairs, the junior detective would chase the phantom thief however far she needed to. Though her legs burned and her hair was a mess with sweat and rushing wind, she'd continue pushing her body to its absolute limits. It's only at the top of the building, slamming the door open with so much force that her wrist hurt, that she'd be face to face with the thief that had caused her so much turmoil.

Taking slow steps towards the phantom that towered over her, Walnut was met with not the egotistical smirk that she was typically shown... but rather, the criminal looked down at her with... concern. No, it was pity. Something she did not need. With a small growl, the little one would hold out her magnifying glass as if it were a meaningful weapon.

"It's over, Phantom Bleu!" She'd shout out between pants, trying to catch her breath as Roguefort would do little more than stare at her. It made Wal feel weak... or was that the lack of sleep and skipped snack times? "Give up! Just- give it up already! Whatever you stole this time!! Give it back!"

Even if there was nowhere to run, nowhere to escape, Roguefort would simply back away. Nothing sudden, simply turning away and walking towards the edge of the rooftop. It's impossible to tell what in the world they were thinking, but Walnut was not having any of it. She'd run up and grab their cape, pulling on it with all the strength of an angry puppy while she was dragged to the end of the roof. "Are you even- are you listening to me!? Hey!! I've caught you!!" The lack of meaningful attention was more than frustrating. Absolutely infuriating.

Gazing across the city skyline, Rogue would hold the shoulder of their cape to make sure it wasn't dragged off by the junior trying to pull it off of them. "When was the last time you cared for yourself?" They asked lightly, as if the one they were inquiring about wasn't trying to tear off their disguise. They would only receive a huff from the investigator, prompting a guilty hum. "It seems that commissioner has kept less track of you than I thought. With such sunken eyes... a gemstone without its sheen... it looks sad, doesn't it?"

"Stop saying weird things and let me catch you!!" Walnut would snip, though would be only met with the phantom setting a hand on her hat. It didn't matter that Almond wasn't 'keeping track' of her, she didn't need it! She didn't need to be treated like something so small! She'd try to keep her headgear from being taken off, clamoring to keep a hold of it, but her strength certainly wasn't helped by how much her limbs felt like melted jelly... maybe all that running did a number on her- more than the skipped lunches and the notebooks full of tracking clues.

Roguefort would sigh, letting Walnut keep the hat in her hands as they simply set a hand on the top of the little one's head and murmured some spell beneath the moonlight. All the struggling would slow, eyes drooping as the little investigator would slump over, using Rogue's cape now as a blanket to lay on. "...and I had not even stolen yet on this night." They'd mumble, looking down at the slumbering young one with a soft gaze. "I suppose if your other relatives are too busy to care for you in your most obsessive state... perhaps a break from my antics is in order."

#walnut cookie #roguefort cookie #angst drabbles #implied neglect warning #cookie run #ask to tag #crob #cookie run ovenbreak

[sour-heart-treats]

[Diary Entry: Black Raisin - CW: Mourning, Implied Death(?)]

I miss Healer Cookie. I miss the Cookie that wanted to help others wholeheartedly despite his lack of sight and resources. Whose trust was considered almost ignorant in the face of potential friends- or potential threats.

I miss Healer Cookie, who tagged along on an adventure that of which was led by a light that would rid him of his own existence. Who would lose more than a dear friend like the one who would replace him once did. Losing himself more than anything else...

I miss Healer Cookie, who was plagued by memories of a Truth that didn't belong to him. Who had become what the Light seeked him to become, despite it overwriting his own existence.

I miss the Cookie who gave up his entire being to transform into something that fate dragged him into becoming. Selfless as always, to such an extent that his mind was replaced with the Ancient whose mistakes were forced upon a soul who had nothing to do with them.

I miss the Cookie who stayed with the raisins and treated them with a smile. Now, that Cookie is nowhere to be found. Proclaim that the ancient healer has returned, and yet it shadows the loss of someone far more precious.

A figurehead, a powerful being, always busy and caught up with important duties...Meetings, discussion, relations, what have you. That Cookie would never have been strung into these events. Where is he now? Erased? Suppressed? Simply, utterly gone? He proclaims he is Pure Vanilla Cookie now, yet it doesn't sit right.

Healer Cookie. I miss him. If it were not for what fate had in store, I am certain he would smile at where his friends are now. Ridiculous, it is, to mourn someone who is not even dead. Though, considering the circumstances... Ah, nevermind.

#healer cookie #pure vanilla cookie #black raisin cookie #cw implied death #angst drabbles

[sour-heart-treats]

Reblogging because I FINALLY figured out how to make polls on Tumblr

Would y'all want to see writings that involve my OCs on here, or should I keep that to my other CR Blog @/chewyjellycable? :]

#not a drabble