#cocoa adventure

[wakacreations]

Zevlor's Bizarre Cocoa Adventure (Ch. 6)

Author's Note:

It was cruel to leave you in almost a two month long cliff hanger. This was a important chapter to build the character dynamics between these companions and for some good foreshadowing. There is tension brewing underneath the surface of the Underdark but what is the cause?

I cannot promise a consistent upload schedule of this story. I write till I feel it is a natural stopping point to end a chapter. I will upload this story on Sunday, if the latest a Monday. I enjoy the dynamic of these three to keep writing them. Even I want to know what happens to these companions and I am the author. I hope you all enjoy this long awaited chapter!

@falcatamandarina

Prologue Ch1 Ch2 Ch3 Ch4 Ch5 Ch6

Word Count: 8695

Summary:

The fallout of a regular Underdark natural disaster. Everyone is battered and bruise. Omeluum has hobbies outside of being a scholar. All is well for the trio as they gather around the campfire.

The stony wall's silhouette grew overhead like a great wave seizing the land. With a firm hand Omeluum raised their palms against the earthy deluge. The rocks bided back as if they were pulled back out to sea. “I can't hold it back for much longer” Omeluum's voice strained. The clear path before them, now swept away, crumbled to the ground below. “You will have to jump,” the mindflayer's voice echoed within their heads. Zevlor peered over the edge at the piling serrated rocks. “I will cast feather falling the moment you leap,” they heaved. The hobgoblin’s eyes met Zevlor with a reassured nod. With their backs against the wall, the Hellrider sprinted off the cliff with his companion over his shoulder.

In that moment, motion and movement seemed weightless. The ceiling above thundered as hailing stones pelted them on. They were opened and exposed to the unforgiving nature of the Underdark. Large stalactites came crashing down above as the ground soon approached. The spring finally triggered as the predator's maw closed shut. Zevlor looked up at the stalactites as it set forth to spear through them. “Is this the end?” his thought echoes as he feels the presence of the stone on his back. A burst of psionic energy crackled the air. Knocking and throwing them from its trajectory. With a great heavy thud, the paladin crashed onto the rubble. His hearing filled with high pitched rings in this disorienting dusty haze.

“Zevlor!” a jumble of voices called to him. “Commander Zevlor!” a familiar voice yelled. “Commander sir! Where are you!” she desperately pleaded for an answer. A shudder of choking cries broke through between the rumble of the buildings settling. His palms pressed into the shattered earth. He gasped for air to enter his lungs as he moved his body onto his hands and knees. A warmth trickled from his temple dripping down his chin to the dirt before him. The fuzziness of his vision soon came into focus. The ground blanketed red. The Hellrider clutched his still throbbing head as he rose to his feet. “Tilses are you there?!” he yelled out. The cloud of dust and debris stained him. Zevlor desperately scanned his surroundings for any motion, any life. 

From above the dust clouds he watched as Elturel’s great towers were struck. With a loud boom an orange blaze consumed them as they all fell. One by one they collapsed as if time was ticking down each moment. Fireballs rained down with wrath. The city; what was his home now crumbling around him. The ground quakes beneath his feet as if a great beast soon approaches. His wild-eyes looked around for their form in this disorienting haze. The airborne dirt was too thick to make out any forms in front of him. “Tilly are you there?! Can you hear me?!” he shouted again between his coughs. Within his peripheries a large flaming ball collided to the earth. The fiery blaze singed his armour. Zevlor stumbles forward pressing on. “I heard you, Hellrider Tilly! Please say something!” His words are all covered in grit and ash. The sound of shifting rocks caught his attention between the sounds of bombardment. His ears twitched towards the direction of the source. 

“Private is that you!” The Hellrider carefully approached the sound. Soft faint shallow breathing became audible in this mad flurry of chaos. The pounding in his chest filled his ears, overcoming the drone of crashing rocks. The smell of rot and decay lingered. Something shimmered among the pile of rubble. Sudden gusts of scalding winds cut through the dense clouds. Zevlor raised his arm against the razor winds. The air stinging his exposed tattered flesh. He shielded his eyes against the whipping sands. In his vision he caught a glimpse of something. Black hair poking through the debris. 

He ran. He ran with all the strength in his limbs that screamed. He ran as if air was a privilege that would escape his lungs. He ran as fast as his ribs could withstand his hammering heart. Hungry desperations filled his veins, hands feverishly clawing to unearth the hope that laid bare somewhere deep below. His mind cried for him. “It’s not too late! I! Am! Right! Here! I am right here so don’t give up on me!” With animalistic vigor he hurried the stones out of his way. The crumbled stones echo in the eerie silence. “You will! You can’t fall! So please.. stay with me!” Eternal dread began to linger on his skin. The palms of his hands cut raw from the digging. “Will this be another one?” his inner voice whispered. Reaching into the rubble he grasps for anything. The corners of his eyes grew wet. “Not you too” fell between his lips.

The warm touch of a hand grazed his claws. From within the rocks shifted and twisted. “Don't move” Zevlor uttered as he removed the last of the debris. An arm rushed to wrap him in a tight embrace. “Good to see you alive and well Hellrider” they said with a pained chuckle. They hacked and spittled over his shoulder. “Who is Tilly? Or is that my new nickname?” they coughed. The Hellrider stiffened in their arm. He looked up at the face before him.

The all too familiar wide nose and crescent eyes that welcomed him. The hobgoblin gave him a wide pained smile despite all the littered bruising on their face. “Blurg?” a wisp of uncertainty edged his voice. The dust now settled, the Hellrider took in what laid around them. Their surroundings seemed to waver and bend as the remains of a natural disaster unraveled before them. “Was I always here?” His question but a ripple to his waking consciousness. The expansive scorched city, now a crumbling cliffside village. Well more like what was truly left of one. The buildings were in different states of erosion. Some completely swept down to level with the shore. Others semi collapse to fully under a canopy of rocks. “That's right, I'm here,” his mind swayed as reality settled into his senses. Zevlor gazed at the path where they were just minutes ago, all blocked off. Their journey now a one way passage. 

“No going back” he thought. “No ability to resupply either” Zevlor tutted, he took a deep breath and broke off from their embrace. The paladin turned to his companion who looked upon him with a soft gaze. “Do you feel any pain, Blurg?” The Hellrider’s eyes hardened as he scanned for any immediate injuries. “I am fine as I could be. Nothing,” they cleared their throat. “A little rest and a health potion couldn't fix.” Blurg gave Zevlor’s shoulder a firm reassuring squeeze. The paladin winced at the pressure. “You look more worse for wear than I, friend.” The hobgoblin raised their blood soaked hand. “Can you manage to stand?” Zevlor draped their arm over his shoulder. “I think I can do that for ya. The area near the dock should be clear.” They pointed their chin to the shore. The hobgoblin's knees buckled as they rose to their feet. “I have you,” as the paladin supported them. “Left or right foot?” he asked. “I'm not sure?” The Hellrider lifted the hobgoblin onto his back. “Are you sure Zevlor? I know I joke about you being a knight but I didn't..” Blurg sputtered.

 “I can manage this enough. I wouldn't have been a Hellrider otherwise,” Zevlor cut their words sharply. He carried them with ease through the rocky debris. “This should do” as the paladin slid the hobgoblin to sit upon the dock. The Hellrider kneeled before them. “Who knew things could turn so quickly,” he thought. Delicately, he began his preliminary examination. Their swollen ankle had a soft purple hue as he elevated it upon his knee. “Looks like a simple sprain. Nothing too serious thankfully. The bruising will heal through a health potion. We'll have to check that arm of yours next.” He carefully wrapped their ankle. 

“Have you seen Omeluum?” The hobgoblin stared behind them in the mess of rubble. The air grew warm as a presence caressed their minds. “I am here,” their words held a long tiredness to them. The air condensed and bended to reveal the illithid clutching their midsection. Hunching over, their unsteady panting between flinches of pain.. made them seem so vulnerable. He gently sat down his companion's leg. Zevlor carefully approached the mindflayer. “Will you allow me?” He guided his hand towards where their hands rested. 

The Hellrider looked upon their eyes asking for permission. Omeluum eyes crinkled at the edges, pleading as if they were but a wounded pup. They give him a nod. Rocks had buried themselves deep within the open flesh of their abdomen. Zevlor applied pressure around the bloodied mess with a rag. Blurg scooted over to allow his tentacled friend room to sit. They began the grueling task of the removal of the foreign bodies. “You know Omeluum you always said you wished to have a piece of the Underdark within you. You may get that wish today, my friend,” Blurg chuckled. Still silence fell between the three companions as the duo continued to work on. Moments later the mindflayer rolled their eyes at the hobgoblin. “Your sense of wit does not change, Blurg. If anything, it is a welcome sign of your wellbeing,” Omeluum breathed. His two companions seem to still hold high spirits despite everything.

“This shall sting” as the Hellrider sterilized the area. They winced in response. “I don't know much about mindflayer biology but I would assume all living beings required similar care when injured.” The paladin soaked a bandage with a potion of healing. “Thank you Zevlor Blurg,” Omeluum sighed with relief as they finished tending the wound. Their body going lax as the potion worked to stitch the damage. The mindflayer quietly hummed to themselves as they drifted between consciousness.

“I’ll go check to see if I can scavenge for some of our supplies.” The Hellrider rose to their feet turning towards the hills of shattered earth. “Let’s fix up your injuries first.” Blurg called over his shoulder. “If not, let me come with you!” The hobgoblin stumbled to their feet. “No! I'll be alright. You must rest and keep an eye on Omeluum,” Zevlor commanded. He began to move away when he felt a gentle pull to his ankle. Looking down there sat a tentacle hugging his calf. “Don’t push yourself too hard, Commander,” releasing their grip on the Hellrider. His eyebrows furrowed at the use of his old title. Omeluum rose their palm as it pulsed a white twinkling glow. Twin beams of light materialized before them. “This is all but I have the strength to detect.” Their palm fell limply onto their chest. “Thank you. I will say the same sentiment holds true for you too.” The Hellrider continues his lone walk into the waste land.

He followed the remnants of the beams to their set locations. The dark earth that slipped through his fingers still felt surreal. Only moments before he swore they were red stained dirt of Avernus. The smell of death and decay was still fragrant. “Maybe I am losing my sanity,” Zevlor mumbled under his breath. To think his mind has reached such a fragile state. It was one thing to dream of such things but to see them as reality in the waking world was too much. The light dissipated as he drew closer to the site. He managed to secure one backpack of supplies. Rifling through were dried goods and utensils. “Must be Blurg's pack.” Zevlor slung the bag over his shoulder. The next beam was quite a distance.

He felt the dig of his armour. The lacerations on his back reopening and closing with each stride. “I can handle this much discomfort. I won't be for much longer.” The subtle sound of tumbling rocks echoed off the walls. The Hellrider froze in place. He scanned around his vicinity but found nothing out of place. Continuing on he managed to successfully traverse to the second supply point. He hovered over the beam's path, tossing away stones and wooden supports out from underneath its rays. “How far could it possibly be..” Something sickly probed at the edges of his mind, a cool breath brushed over the back of his neck sending him into a whole body shiver. He peered up from his hunched position. “Buried so far beneath,” finishing his words. Before him a few meters away a cloud of red mist disappeared. “Was that always there?”

When he returned he found his companions had established a campsite. Against a large boulder, Blurg sat. Omeluum's head laid on their lap, sound asleep. “Welcome back!” The hobgoblin looked up at him. The mindflayer stirred at the sudden noise. “Sorry,” Blurg whispered. Zevlor held up two backpacks. “This is all I could find out there.” He tossed his companions each a health potion. “I'll have lunch prepared in just a moment.” The Hellrider moved to remove his bracers. 

Blurg watched on as the older tiefling worked the rest of their armour off. The hobgoblin took a sip of the healing potion. “Omeluum. Omeluum, could you sit up for a moment.” He gently jostled the sleepy mindflayer. They grumbled in response. Blurg let out a sigh. “You have two options, my good partner of mine.” He patted their jiggly forehead. Their face scrunched up in annoyance. One tentacle swatted at his hand. “Either you sit up to drink this potion or I'll have to feed it to you.” The hobgoblin tapped the uncorked bottle on the base of their tentacles. Omeluum made no motion to move. “Alright I did warn ya, mate.” Blurg lifted their two tentacles and plunged the potion into their maw. Omeluum opened their eyes, pupils darted around wildly as they felt their lungs burn. The mindflayer gargled on the mushroomy syrup. They sat up and fought to dislodge the glass that sealed itself shut to their mouth. “Swallow the potion you, damn idiot!” The aberration complied with the request. They swallowed. With audible pop the potion bottle was removed.

“What were you thinking Blurg!?” Omeluum coughed out the remains of the potion. “You are in need of medical attention so I gave you a potion,” The hobgoblin shrugged. His partner gave him a piercing glare. Blurg leaned in close to them. “You haven't eaten in a good while, Omeluum and I know you took no bites when you last traveled to Baldur’s Gate,” Blurg sternly whispered. They tensed at his words. “Who knows what could have happened if you were anymore injured,” worry coated the hobgoblin’s words. “Are you? Do you not trust I, Blurg?” The mindflayer expression turned emotionless. “No, but that habit of yours still remains dangerous. You still need to be sated to heal,” he gruffed. “I know the limits of what my body can sustain my friend,” they answered simply as they laid back down onto their lap. “But that does not stop my worrying, you tentacled fool,” Blurg thought to himself. He felt a slimy dampness wrap around his wrist. Looking down, a tentacle gave him a reassuring squeeze. “This discussion isn't over,” he mumbled.

“Lunch is finished and prepared. Let me know if you need anything else.” The older tiefling called from the fire. Holding two steaming plates, Zevlor made his way towards his companions. Whatever his companions were discussing he would not bother them for now. It seemed to be a long ongoing dispute by the way they were bickering. While Blurg and Omeluum ate their lunch of simple grilled meats, he went to work assessing his own injuries.

He unpeeled his undershirt that clung to his worn body. From behind him, he heard a whistle. “That looks nasty there, Zev.” Blurg gawked at the paladin before them. Where was his skin underneath the patchwork of abrasions? They probably thought. “It’s impolite to stare, Blurg.” Zevlor heard the hobgoblin suck in a sharp breath of air. He unpacked a clean rag and a change of clothes. The Hellrider peered at the water. “Best not to go out there,” the hobgoblin said as if reading his mind. They waved a scroll in their hand. 

“Sit down here if you don't mind. I believe you won't be able to reach that back of yours.” His companion patted at the dirt besides them. “If you could, thank you.” He sat crossed legged beside them, back turned towards them. “So…” Blurg began as they dabbed at his back with a wet rag. “What lurks in those waters over there? If you do not mind indulging me.” The Hellrider wistfully looked out to the dark waves. Only time would tell when he would reach Baldur’s Gate once more. “Whatever your mind could imagine would probably be right,” they hummed. The splash of cool water stung against his battered skin.

“Aboleth for one; giant eel like fish with tentacles for a body, the mouth of a mindflayer and psionic abilities similar to them as well,” the hobgoblin said casually. Zevlor turned to look at them over his shoulder. Blurg, not perturbed at the slightest at a creature lurking potentially in striking distance. “Have you.. encountered them,” he tensed. Blurg continued their task and paused for a moment. “Omeluum could feel their presence beneath the waters but..” The hobgoblin looked over at the mindflayer picking at their food, “those creatures would like nothing to do with illithids.” Blurg finished wiping his back. “Any particular reason to?” He motioned for the rag so he could begin cleaning his chest. 

“They fear what they don't know. They have lived for eons so to encounter a being they have no knowledge of is most peculiar to them,” Omeluum chimed in. “Well they are right to be the most cautious of such beings,” Zevlor thought. “Are they intelligent life this Aboleth?” Zevlor turned his head to the mindflayer who was nibbling at their meal. “Intelligent… sadly yes. The Aboleth that dwells in these waters are most.. Hostile,” Omeluum said hesitantly. The paladin's tail snaking its way to hug his midsection. There are enough things already to keep his mind occupied. An eldritch sea creature close to camp sounded like a cruel joke. “Omeluum and the Aboleth are currently on peaceful terms so long as they do not enter the water,” Blurg shrugged. “Would you like me to help bandage you up Zev?” His companion eyed him as he began wrapping himself. “If you could be so kind. It would be greatly appreciated.” He handed them some cloth.

Omeluum continued on, “we shared a conversation and that is the closest you will receive assured cooperation from an Aboleth.” The mindflayer raised their palms against the bidding criticism. “They send telepathic curses to one another,” Blurg said simply. Zevlor looked at the mindflayer with bewilderment. Omeluum grumbled into their food. “The Aboleth were the one provoking to gauge our reactions,” they huffed. “Then how did they come to this agreement,” the Hellrider questioned as he got dressed. “The Aboleth had a better insult that left Omeluum speechless for a while. They are still waiting to come up with a better response,” Blurg chuckled. 

Zevlor couldn’t help sigh. What have I gotten myself into? Out of all the people to be traveling with.. He could not have asked for such chaotic company but.. it is to be expected from his luck. “Well then turning to other matters, about our transportation across these waters. Are we to be traveling by boat perchance or perhaps by any other means?” The Hellrider finished buttoning up his shirt. Blurg and Omeluum stared at each other in a long silence. “Well gentlemen? Do we have the means?” the Commander pressed on. The gears seemed to turn in their skulls when sheer panic crossed his companions' faces.

“My ship!” With a flash the mind flayer disappeared before them. “We better follow them,” Blurg urged. The two companions made their way down the rocky shore. “Where to further,” Zevlor scanned the shoreline. Blurg raised themselves above the head of the Hellrider. “Keep moving forward, we're almost there,” they pointed over to the base of a cliff at the very edge of the shore. A deep guttural wail pierced through the noise of the Underdark.  The air felt heavy in his lungs. Their surroundings crackled to life as if a storm was rolling in. When they stumbled upon the mindflayer, the frigidness of the wind chilled their bones. They stood motionless at the vessel before them. What remains of it that still stayed above water. From what he could see, the ship was a work of art. The navy blue sails crashed onto the boulder riddled deck. The sides of the ships were ornate with silver flourishes. The wooden engraved depictions of animals decorated the back of the ship. What adorned the front of the ship was a figure that looked oddly familiar. 

“Wait it cannot be,” the paladin uttered in disbelief. He let down Blurg from his back, stepping in closer to get a better view. “What better way to commemorate the saviour of Baldur’s Gate than by being a symbol of a safe passage.” Omeluum ran their fingers across the side of the ship. “Their name is Peace. It took quite some time to construct this vessel. Most of my personal time was spent on its careful research and planning for it to be one day seen before my own eyes. Each board was placed by my hands,” they laughed at themselves. Their forehead pressed against the side of the ship in a deep mourning. “I checked the pattern of seismic activity in this area of the Underdark. There have been no signs of their occurrences from my research. What I was able to gather. I must have missed some information,” they spoke their inner thoughts that now roamed free. Zevlor tentatively laid a hand on their shoulder and Blurg stood at their other side. “I am sorry, mate. I know how long you worked on this project.” The hobgoblin gave reassuring pats onto their back.

“Your vessel looks repairable. With that brilliant mind of yours, I am sure you are capable.” The Hellrider took note and made a mental list of the potential repairs. “Thank you to the both of you.” Omeluum stepped out of their reach. They flew onto the ship settling down onto the front of the deck. The debris on the deck soon floated into the air. “I will assess the damages to the ship but for now you two may rest.” The mindflayer began tossing the boulders onto the shore. “Wait! Hold on there, Omeluum!” Blurg shouted. Omeluum paused their motions. “Tell us what materials you'll need. I'm sure we can scrounge up something for ya.” The hobgoblin beamed a smile at his partner. “Yes, Blurg's quite right Omeluum.” Zevlor agreed. If only for this journey to end quickly. “Now shall we get started?” The Hellrider rolled up his sleeves.

Zevlor and Blurg were enveloped in a violet light. The paladin thrashed about as his body went stiff. “It is alright. I am lifting you two aboard,” Omeluum hummed. The older tiefling attempted to relax. He felt the soles of his boots lift off the ground. A gentle tug pulled him upwards into the air. With a light thud his feet met the creaky wooden planks. “Blurg, will you write down all necessary repairs for the vessel.” Omeluum withdrew a quill and ink from their robe. The hobgoblin went to work jotting down their observations. Stones were tossed, ship parts were strewn ashore, and the damage was assessed.

Below the floorboards the companions went. Their feets sloshed as they descended further down the steps entering the depths of the ship. “Omeluum? How do you propose we go about these repairs?” Zevlor inquired, his tail idly waved back and forth through the waist deep murkiness. “The water can easily be drained out. If we are lucky there should be enough wood from the village to repair the holes.” Omeluum trailed his claws against the hairline cracks along the wall. “I am unsure if a complete repair will be possible. Though, I cannot guarantee these cracks will not cause further fractures to the integrity of the vessel. What is your opinion on the matter, Blurg?” The mindflayer sighed, concern etched onto their face. Their voice echoed through the chamber. Water lapped against the walls was the only reply. “Blurg?” The two companions turned to look behind them.

“I am alright, you two.. I am just.. finding my buoyancy,” the hobgoblin bobbed up and down. The current splashed against their chest. Quill and parchment still in hand as they fought to keep them dry. Blurg was draped in a purple glow lifted into Omeluum's awaiting arms. “Oh, thank you,” they said sheepishly, their cheeks flushed darkening a shade. “Let me have a good look at those measly cracks.” The mindflayer complied, holding them steady while Blurg examined the lines in the wood. Their finger traced the path of the seams, brows furrowing in concentration. The cracks flickered with light but soon retreated leaving only a faint orange scar in its place. “Well done, Blurg.” Omeluum smiled, a tentacle patted atop their skull. “We will take stock of our resources. The hull will be our priority. We shall make further repairs from there but first those materials need to be procured.” The mindflayer sat down his partner.

With their two raised palms against the wall, the ship creaked and groaned. Blurg and Zevlor stumbled about trying to regain their balance as the ship swayed like a church bell. The water level soon drained from the large craters that plagued the floor below. With one final whine and thud gave way, the vessel grew silently still. “You may exit,” Omeluum tilted their head towards the stairs. Blurg teetered as they began to speak but was cut off. “The boards need to be settled back into place.” With a nod the hobgoblin made his way up the stairs. Rapid thundering footsteps reverberated from behind, a red blur stampeded past him in a wild hurry.

Upon entering the deck, a figure sat hunched over the railing of the ship. They lurched forward and gave a hearty wretch off the bow. Dry heaving came from them as he approached. Their tail held high as they hung halfway off the Peace. “For the divine's sake would it kill them to give a fair warning!” The old Hellrider growled leaning on the railing for support. The hobgoblin joined him at his side. He waited for the knots in his stomach to cease. Zevlor closed his eyes to shield himself from the sway that held his vision. “It probably would given them. They wouldn't be Omeluum if they did,” Blurg shrugged. Their rough hand rubbed gentle circles on his back. “They would still be them but more mannered,” Zevlor said sharply. The waves of nausea finally subsided slightly. “True. I'll give you that.” A large crash clamored behind them. They both turned their heads.

Omeluum stared meekly at the newly formed hole that appeared on the deck. “It’s alright, Buddy. We'll fix the ship back up in the early mornin.” Blurg went over and guided them by the hand. “I think Zevlor needs help getting down.” The older tiefling's ears twitched at the comment. “I'll be able to get down in just a minute, let me get my bearings situated,” Zevlor breathed. The day is almost over. Soon we will take a much needed rest, finding his center. He felt his companions stared dig into his back. “You know, you two can go on ahead and I'll join you at camp.” A deep guttural growl echoed from behind him. “Oh. It is fine. We can wait.” Blurg reassured him but then another stomach growl came again. These two really? Honestly, what am I to do with the both of you? Zevlor shook his head at the absurdity of this situation. “Alright, you two can help,” he conceited.

Blurg bounded towards him dragging the mindflayer with them. The hobgoblin wrapped an arm around his midsection and Omeluum followed suit. “No more unannounced telekinesis, alright? I have spent too much time suspended in the air for today,” Zevlor warned. He tense at the proximity of Omeluum's tentacles. “Then I'll lead the charge then. Will leaping be alright?” Blurg quirk a brow at him. “Well, that should be-” His stomach dropped as he felt the familiar weightlessness hit him. “FINE,” Zevlor gruffed, back on to the ground. “BLURG!” He watched the hobgoblin furiously waddle behind a pile of boulders. Zevlor looked on, dumbfounded.

“He didn't want to be rude and leave you alone up there,” Omeluum smiled apologetically but amused. “Really?” It wouldn’t be unreasonable for them to leave. Especially when bodily functions are concerned.. The Hellrider eyes met the mindflayer. “Truly?” The older tiefling cocked their head still unsure of his companion’s sentiment. “Blurg knows you are still uncomfortable around my presence. In their own strange way, he knows how to break the tension.” Zevlor felt the mindflayer relax their hold over him.

Omeluum looked at him curiously. “We are halfway to camp. Would you like my assistance to walk the rest of the way?” The mindflayer helped the older tiefling stand properly onto his feet. Zevlor pondered their words for a moment. So far they have not done anything too dangerous or warrant his caution. They're a little impulsive but if Blurg trusts them… Then maybe for just this one instance. The Hellrider smiled at Omeluum, “if you do not mind of course. I could use it.” The Commander and the Captain walked in tandem to their campsite.

A comfortable silence fell between the two companions. I would hate to ruin this moment but.. it needs to be said. “You know Omeluum.. it was dangerous what you did back there.” Zelvor kept his gaze to the campsite before them. “Is there a specific instance you wish to discuss?” The mindflayer seems not perturbed at the subject. The Hellrider relaxed the tension in his frame, “when you shot that psionic blast. I do appreciate the intended sentiment behind the course of action.” The older tiefling looked at the aberration before them in their piercing eyes. “We could have died if you weren’t careful, Omeluum.” Their features softened, almost mournful.

“I know, Hellrider.. When you and Blurg jumped off the cliff I had mere moments to cast feather falling on the both of you. If you must know, though I am a mindflayer I should be more resilient than most. I haven’t lived like an illithid for quite some time,” Omeluum chuckled to themselves, there was a sad tone to it. Zevlor couldn’t help but wonder, “what did they mean by that?” Their chuckles subsided, “I haven’t hunted or seen combat like other mindflayers. My sense of awareness isn’t as sharp as others of my kind. I attempted to fly away but..” They shifted uncomfortably when Zevlor's side pressed against their body. "As you have a hand in patching, I was wounded and pinned by the rock slide. I managed to escape but to nearly be caged in by the raining stones as I flew. If I could have taken any other course of action I would have,” Omeluum said solemnly.

The campsite came into view. He attempted to move forward but they paused their movements. The mindflayer shook, “I would not allow anything to befall my companions. I would not let anything happen to Blurg” their voice trembled. The older paladin was at a loss for words. He wasn’t sure what to make of all of this information. Could a mindflayer truly act in such a way? What were the truths and the lies when it came to these eldritch beings. They are known to be manipulative calculated beings but for a being to grow so fond of a Blurg. “I believe you, Omeluum.” You would have to be a fool of a mindflayer.

Zevlor knelt before the campfire as he had done so many times before. Once more he coaxed a flame within his held hands. The warmth of fire was a welcoming comfort as the campfire blazed alight. He sat down cross legged onto his bedroll. Exhaustion held his form, it has been quite some time since he felt this worn out. The Hellrider went into a full body stretch as he yawned. Every bruise, every ache, and gods the itchiness of these bandages. He fought the urge to scratch at his wounds. There was a reason he acquired the moniker, the Hellrider’s Inferno. Nothing could touch him if he could help it but.. there was no such thing as being scarless.

When Zevlor made a move to give into temptation, a cooling sensation fell over his back. He couldn’t help but close his eyes at the sweet relief. The feeling traveled to the rest of his extremities.  The old paladin let out a rough pleased groan. “Well it seems like you all are getting all chummy without me,” a deep raspy voice teased. His eyes shot wide open to a hobgoblin who stood across the campfire arms crossed. The mage hands’ touch faded away. Zevlor’s cheeks burned a rich crimson. “I see how it is. One of your mates can’t go off and do his business while you all go off to have a little fun.” Blurg clutched their chest feigning heartbreak, eyes growing wet at their edges. He gave a dirty mug to his companions. “Blurg, I. We.. we were just waiting for your return,” the older tiefling stammered out. The hobgoblin shushed him.

“You two get nice and cozy then while I get dinner started” they winked. The Hellrider turned a few more shades redder. The mage hands reappeared before him. “I am just teasing Zevlor. Go on, relax! It has been a long day for all of us. Omeluum does give good massages. You could use one given you were carrying my hide all day,” Blurg gave a roaring laugh. The paladin pushed away the translucent hand. He stumbled to his feet. “No, it is quite alright. I could help you prepare the dishes.” The Hellrider went to Blurg's side. “I will be the chef of the evening but you can set out the dishes. Leave the rest to me.” The hobgoblin placed the tableware in his hands and promptly shooed him away. Omeluum chuckled as they laid in their bedroll. “Cooking is one of the few things that relaxes them. Ah, thank you.” Zevlor placed a bowl in their hands, “Your welcome. Duly noted.”

Finished with his task, he returned to lay in his bedroll. The hardness of the stone floor. The crashing waves against the shore. The subtle sound of trickling water that echoes throughout his surroundings. He couldn't help but gaze up at the ever expansive ceiling of stalactites. There was a lot to process but his mind was too tired to compartmentalize any of it. “Do you miss the night sky, Zevlor?” Omeluum asked. It was a simple question but he had a different answer each time. “Yes, if I am being honest with you.” There were times when he wished for the nights to end quickly. The starry sky was just another occurrence in his younger years, just another symbol of the passage of time. Next it became times of anxiety and war when the undead hordes came in droves. He didn't believe he would ever long to see it once more until the concept of night didn't exist in Avernus. Soon the nights became something he longed for. “Commander?~” like a siren, they called to him. He would gladly listen to their song. Yet, “Will you become one of us, Hellrider? Praise be.” When the sun falls, the dark recesses of his mind are amplified. Nevertheless the beautiful stars gave some soothing comfort. “Allow yourself some peace and clemency, Zevlor,” his saviour held him. Biding back the shadows of the night. 

The air became thicker as if a fog took hold. “Time passes by here differently. One of the indicators of its passage is through the slow growth of the mushrooms that call this place their home.” With a wave of Omeluum's hand, the mist seemed to reverberate with static charges. “Even then you won't notice time ever moved. A few minutes may be perceived as hours. One day seems to pass but in reality a week once you return to the surface.” High above them, reality seemed to ripple. Wavering and bending like an aurora. Unraveling before them a sea of radiant stars, the mist dissipating. “When we live in the Underdark for long periods of time. I cast the sky from the surface once we come to a long rest.” Omeluum looked wistfully at the stars above. “Time means nothing for beings like myself. We can live for eons for those who are fortunate. To those whose time is precious, I do not mind providing this type of comfort.” Lights trailed each other across the moonlit sky. It has been some time since he has seen such a display. The celestial bodies dance among each other in a waltz. Their forms lingered together till they disappeared out of our view. “Such a romantic, Omeluum. You always had the tavern patrons swooning at your words.” The hobgoblin gestured for their bowl. “You spent enough time listening to the bards and their songs. Maybe you'll draw enough courage to speak to one or become one in fact.” Blurg laddled in their meal. “Thank you. We shall see.” The mindflayer took a sip from their bowl. 

They made their way around the campfire. “Bowl please Zevlor,” the hobgoblin held out their hand. “Since this is our first night together. Should we all play a little game?” A dangerous glint twinkled in their gaze. “Thank you.” Zevlor accepted his bowl, tentatively taking a spoonful to ease his stomach. They were up to something that is for certain. If it is for the sake of group morale. “What is it?” If some lighthearted games are how they need to cope. Well who am I to object? “Two truths and one lie. It is a simple enough game. If you guess correctly, you flick the forehead of the asker. If you guess incorrectly, you receive a flick instead.” The hobgoblin sat in their bedroll, eyeing at his companions expectantly.

Zevlor felt a nudge at his mind. “Would you be willing to team up against, Blurg?” Omeluum beckoned him. The Hellrider was disarmed at the motion of his companion. “Is there a reason to betray your partner?” He answered back. I will hear their reasoning before jumping to conclusions. “I was awoken to a health potion shoved down my gullet.” Ah, and that would do it. “Would you, paladin of Helm? One of the Hellriders stands by this injustice?” If they say so by those terms then it will be within my honour. “I have a couple of conditions. First follow my lead, second our conspiring should not be made clear, and lastly you will use minimal force. I am a capable actor.” He felt his tail slowly wag behind him. Am I really that giddy for such deceit? “I will expect the same treatment in return. My dome is fragile.” The connection severed. “So, will the both of you be joining in?” The hobgoblin grinned eagerly at them. “We accept,” The Commander and the Captain said in unison.

Blurg clapped his hands together. “Since I proposed the game, we will have a test round. No flicks necessary. I will begin this round but for the next round will be decided through another game. Rock, paper, scissors. Are you lads ready?” The hobgoblin slapped their knee. Zevlor and Omeluum shared a sideways glance, they nodded to the hobgoblin. 

“I was once mistaken as a Orc, a Orog specifically. I am a wizard by trade first and foremost. I have always lived in the Underdark.”

This seems like an easy enough answer. “The answer is three,” Omeluum chimed, their words echoing in his head. “Really? He looks nothing like a Orog..” Zevlor thought. 

“Well, are you two ready to answer? At the same time. three… two… one…”

“Three” they said aloud. Blurg drummed a beat onto their lap as the anticipation grew. “You are both correct. I lived in Baldur’s Gate for the first half of my life and now, I have ended up here.” They gestured to their surroundings. “But truly a Orog? I hardly see the resemblance.” Zevlor scoffed, sitting crossed legged. He gave the hobgoblin a once over. “Best believe, Hellrider. Hold on, give me a second! This will be proof enough that I resemble one of them.” The hobgoblin stood up from their bedroll. The rustle of a belt clasp opening, jacket slipping off their shoulders falling at their feet. Blurg hands went to the hem of their sleeveless shirt. “I do not need a demonstration, Blurg. It is quite alright, I will take your word for it!” The Hellrider waved the man off from the unnecessary strip tease. “Hold on. Let me get into position.” His shirtless companion widened their stance. “And they weren’t listening,” the paladin sighed. The hobgoblin hunched over, clenching their fists. Their face held a firm scowl as they flexed their muscles.

Honestly, their posturing was on point. “I can see the resemblance,” Zevlor conceited. Anything to make them stop. “Blurg is quite familiar with that posture. He has taken that form before after a long night at the tavern. There are more instances. Give me a moment.” Omeluum closed their eyes in contemplation stroking their chin. “Aye, I do not remember doing such a thing!” Blurg's voice was muffled as they put on their shirt. “That is the point, Blurg! You were too inebriated to remember,” the mindflayer gave a warm laugh. “Alright. Alright. Stop heckling me! It is your turn Omeluum,” Blurg huffed.

“I am but a humble arcanist. I have been compared to my colleague Grazilaxx. I have been imprisoned more than Blurg.”

The older tiefling raised his hand. “Yes, Zevlor,” Omeluum tilted their head. “Are follow up questions allowed in this game?” He brought his arm back down to his side. The mindflayer gave their partner a look for confirmation. “Sure, why not. This is a game among mates after all,” Blurg smiled, resting on their stomach. “What is an arcanist and who is Grazilaxx?” Zevlor awaited their response. “Arcanists are a cross between a sorcerer and a wizard. Beings who can cast spells regardless of difficulty like a sorcerer and recall knowledge from tomes like a wizard,” they said simply.

“Grazilaxx is another illithid who works for the Society of Brilliance. Their Omeluum's senior if I remember correctly and whom our mate here shares a one sided rivalry with,” Blurg jabbed. Does.. their organization just accept all the mindflayers they come across? “We do not share what you are insinuating, Blurg. We are just peers all the same,” they grumbled. The hobgoblin smirked at their partner. “Alright, your onesided romance with the illithid scholar then,” Blurg beamed an innocent smile at them. “BLURG!” The mindflayer shot a piercing glare at the hobgoblin. A loud cough cut through the tension. The researchers turned towards the tiefling. “I am sorry. Something must have gotten caught in my throat. The game, gentlemen.” Zevlor gestured for Omeluum to speak.

“If you are both prepared to answer. Three… Two… One…”

“One!” Blurg yelled. “Three,” said Zevlor. “What is the reasoning by your answers?” Omeluum raised a brow. “I highly doubt, you entered far more trouble then Blurg,” the paladin crossed his arms. The mindflayer chuckled. “Hey! You have such little faith in me, Zev?” The hobgoblin gave him a quivering lip. “I have faith trouble would find you,” Hellrider couldn't help but rolls his eyes. “The answer is one. I guarantee it!” Blurg slapped their knees. “How are you so certain Blurg,” Omeluum purred. “Easy! You are not humble!” Blurg gave a wild cackle as they collapsed into a spasming fit of laughter. Zevlor felt a chuckle bubble in his throat but soon covered it with a cough when the mindflayer gave him a stern look. “Oh, I needed that laugh. Thank you Omeluum my good friend.” Blurg wiped the tears away on the back of their hands. 

“Zevlor is correct. Now it is your turn Hellrider.”

“WAIT! WAIT. Wait. When have I been imprisoned?” The hobgoblin sat back up. “Haven't you also been Omeluum?!” Their partner pitched the bridge of their tentacles. “You have been imprisoned by the fist for multiple instances of disturbing the peace. Before you interject it was again because you drunk one too many pints. I have been imprisoned once at the Iron Throne Prison.” Wasn't that the most highly guarded facility in Baldur’s Gate? The paladin’s suspicions were raised. If anything a more severe crime must have occurred. Anything less than such you would be in Wyrm’s Rock or Heapside. “What was the reasoning for your imprisonment? If you are comfortable.” Am I prying too much?

The mindflayer gave a deep reverberating sigh. “I was researching your friend's.. condition. From my findings, I found the tadpoles were related to the Cult of the Absolute. When I began to further my research into the matter, the Steel Watch came.” Omeluum seemed lost in thought but continued on. “I awoke to being strapped down and cuffed onto a table. It wasn't till Tav came to rescue Duke Ravengard when they found I. It wasn't till we left in the submersible that I learned I was imprisoned at the Iron Throne.” The illithid shuttered, falling silent.

“You know Zevlor.. We owe Tav a lot for what they have done. I especially for keeping my best mate safe. So when I heard from Omeluum you wanted to repay them, well who were we if not to help you. That Master of Ramazith's Tower spoke highly of you and they don't give compliments sparingly,” Blurg gave a little chuckle. Do they truly?

“By whatever means we'll help you reach a safe passage to Baldur's Gate. Chocolate in hand when we reach the surface,” Omeluum reassured him. Would you two be so willing?

“Speaking of chocolate,” the hobgoblin hobbled away. They returned bearing two small crates under their arms. “While you two were busy bonding by the campfire. I found these crates when walking back here. Care for some hot chocolate, Zevlor?” These were truly strange times. He couldn't help but let genuine laughter escape him. One that shook his frame. One that made his cheeks hurt. One that left his abs spasming. For the first time since he began this journey, he felt safe. “That would be lovely. Thank you, Blurg.” Maybe even akin to a familiar sense of belonging but that is too early to tell. What he can say is that these are good people and good company. They don't need to know that last bit of sentiment. He won't be able to hear the end of it.

“You are not off the hook of our little game, Zevlor. It is your turn. The best for last.” Blurg handed him the warm cup. The Hellrider was taken aback. In the midst of this game, he never thought of the truths and lies he was willing to share. He took a sip of what he was working towards. The all too strong earthly rich taste of cocoa. The familiar bitterness that lingers on his tongue for far too long to be enjoyable. Though, maybe it is his imagination but it faintly tasted sweet like molasses.

“I was once called the Hellrider's Inferno or Mr. Inferno for I onced set one of our outposts ablaze. My private Tilses and others under my command when I was in service saw me as the gentlest commander. I have children waiting for me in Baldur’s Gate.”

His companions all spat out their drinks in unison. The campfire dimmed as it was doused in chocolate spittle. Blurg fought against the coughing fit that strangled their airway. Omeluum sat dumbfounded but a bit peeved as they wiped away their spilled drink.

“Three… Two… One…”

“Three, no way you have children, Hellrider!” The hobgoblin looked at him in disbelief. “Two, the term gentlest is subjective to each individual.” The mindflayer nodded confidently.

“Two, Omeluum is correct. I was gentle to those who needed encouragement to prosper. I was seen as a devil to those who needed a more stricter guidance.” Zevlor smiled fondly into his mug.

“What of your children! How many do you have?! What are their names!? Can we meet them!!!” The hobgoblin bombarded him with questions that he couldn't hear the half of them.

“Slow down, Blurg. Pace yourself. I could hardly hear half of what you're saying. One question at a time.” Zevlor took a glance at his companion to make sure their breathing evened.

“Now, I will begin. Those under my care those that are not within my age range I or close to it are considered my children. I cannot name all of them because that would take far too long. I will name the children I have known the longest. You have already met them or at the very least one of them.” Blurg and Omeluum leaned in close listening intently.

“Private Tilses, Master Rolan, Director/Brother Cal, Flaming Fist Lia, Blacksmith Dammon, Headmaster Alfira and Teacher Lakrissa.” Now that he said it aloud, that is quite a number. “Zevlor.. Are you Rolan’s father? Tilses.. is that the Tilly the same one you mentioned earlier?” The hobgoblin stared at him wide-eyed. “No, I am not the boy’s father or their adopted father.. But if I fit that role for him and the rest of others then I won't judge. If anything I am flattered. As for your second question.. yes.” The evening was going so well despite the near death experience earlier in the day. The gnawing feeling returned. He took a long drink from his mug. Is this the right time to tell them? His tail moved to lay limply on his lap. “If you are uncomfortable, we don't have to talk about it,” Blurg's voice went rough, brows knitted. A pained smile eclipsed their face, a wetness glossed over their eyes. Why does it almost look like they’re crying for him?

His ears twitched when he heard something dripping. He turned his head towards the sound. The source was coming from within his hands. Zevlor peered down at some water droplets plunging into the surface of the hot chocolate. But.. from where? His hand moved to rub the irritation from his eye. Why were his lids so wet? Oh. “I..” he cleared his throat. “It is a story for another time. It is getting late..” When did this start? “We have a long day tomorrow with the repairs,” he said meekly. It was a long day indeed. “Good night, you two.” When he looked up at his companions, they looked at him with such tender warmth. “Good night, Zevlor. We will see you in the morning.” His companions bid him one final good night. The Hellrider laid in his bedroll. All the exhaustion of the day wore him thoroughly. His mind was scattered. Many different emotions had slipped through the cracks in his armour. He who prides themselves in having a even temperment. The Hellrider no, now just simply an old tiefling that went to war with his thoughts. Feelings and memories he wished to bury had but bubbled to the surface at the slight quake in his mental fortitude. He slowly watched his companions settle in for the night. The hum of an illithid only a few meters away and the roaring snoring of a hobgoblin that accompanied them. The campfire continued to crackle through the night. Everyone was sound asleep drifting into their streams of subconsciousness. He never remembered at what point he fell asleep.

[cookie-lore-keeper]

All the Canon or Implied Canon Relationships in Cookie Run

For some reason, you cookies really like your romantic relationships. It's fine, though. I'm the exact same way. But, to fill your shipping needs, here are all the confirmed/implied romantic relationships in Cookie Run!

Cocoa Cookie and Mint Choco Cookie, obviously. Both have crushes on each other but they're both too shy to act on it, despite every Cookie already knowing and shipping them (I see you Mont Blance and Latte trying to dress Cocoa up for her not date. I also see you, Sparkling Cookie, who also clearly ships them)

Lime Cookie has a massive crush on Orange Cookie and tries her best to get her attention and impress her. She also gets jealous when other cookies show interest in Orange Cookie, lol

Pure Vanilla Cookie literally stated that he loved White Lily Cookie and even said, "Do I still have feelings... for White Lily Cookie?" In his dream, so that's confirmed.

Sea Fairy Cookie and Moonlight Cookie are in love, and Sea Fairy literally abandoned her role as an elemental so she could forever gaze at the moon

Despite not being officially confirmed, it is so VERY heavily implied that Shadow Milk Cookie has feelings beyond obsession for Pure Vanilla Cookie. He is ECSTATIC over the idea of Pure Vanilla Cookie saying that they are "meant to be" and when Pure Vanilla Cookie says that he'll stay by his side forever. For fuck's sake, the two literally FUSE their souljam. Honestly, some romances can't be described by simple words. Sometimes it's described through obsession, corruption, awakening, and hatred.

Knight Cookie has a crush on Princess Cookie and literally has a dream where she was going to ask him to marry her, but he woke up before it could finish

Blue Lily Cookie has a crush on Lilybell Cookie, and it's implied that Lilybell likes her back (no, they are not sisters. No, Lilybell Cookie isn't a child. She is an adult, but she is just small).

Milk Cookie has a celebrity crush in Dark Choco Cookie

In the comics, Adventurer Cookie and Blackberry Cookie are married

Lord Oyster and White Pearl Cookie both had crushes on each other before shit hit the fan

In the comics, Fire Spirit Cookie had a crush on Cocoa Cookie

I'm actually not sure about this one since wikis can be edited by anyone, but I'll still count it. It's implied that Shining Glitter Cookie and Black Lemonade Cookie have feelings for each other

Cotton Candy Cookie has a crush on Pink Choco Cookie

Cotton Candy Cookie has a crush on Chili Pepper Cookie (shown on relationships chart. Honestly, she has a crush on everyone)

Cotton Candy Cookie has a crush on Roguefort Cookie and Roguefort Cookie is attracted to her.

Raspberry Mousse Cookie has a massive crush on Rose Cookie. Though, he seems to not know what it is and thinks that it's a curse...

Royal Berry Cookie and Jungleberry Cookie are married

Linzer Cookie and Créme Brûlée Cookie are exes, and it's implied they still have lingering feelings torwards each other

Espresso Cookie and Madeleine Cookie.... kinda. Okay, I'm not really sure. I'm leaning toward "maybe" bcuz devsiss advertises it a lot more than other ships, but also, that could just be bcuz it's popular. Espresso Cookie seems to be annoyed by Madeleine Cookie's antics, but Madeleine Cookie seems to want to impress Espresso Cookie and he does view him as a friend and despite their differences, they are seen a lot together. Is it canon? Idk, probably queer-baiting. But ik that someone was going to say smthn, so I put it here. Put its status as: "Idk, it could be 🤷‍♂️"

Wildberry is possibly implied to have a crush on Crunchy Chip Cookie (Pavlova mentions it in their kingdom interaction and he mentions it in the Beast-Yeast story)

Black Forest Cookie is completely infatuated for the witches and literally married them (did the witches even say "I do"????)

If I forgot anything, please tell me!

[cheesecakemermaid1048]

Okay,does everyone remember popular CROB ships pre-kingdom? While certainly not popular popular,they were well known enough within the small fan base at the time.

I am currently trying to remember them all, feel to add in whatever ships you remember from that time. Keep in mind some of CRK semi-popular ships might in here since some of crob characters were brought over to CRK.

mintcocoa

sparklingcheese(sparkling x cheesecake)

Fireknight(Fire spirit x knight cookie)

Firewind(Fire spirit x wind archer)

Orange x Lime

Princessknight

white choco x princess

pistchaio x white choco

rockstar x herb

cherry blossom x herb

Yogamuscle(yoga x muscle)

Dinosour x cotton candy

cotton candy x chili pepper

werewolf x kumiho

cotton candy x roguefort

blackberry x adventurer

beet x carrot

kiwi x rockstar(possibly)

dark choco x whipped cream

dark enchantress x millennial tree

raspberry mousse x rose

gingerbrave x gingerbright

gingerbrave x ninja (Keep in mind,this was during the era where brave wasnt made to be child. So many people assumed he was adult from what I can guess)

pink choco x cotton candy

Strawberry x mustard

knightaya(knight x pitaya dragon)

lilac x yogurt(was somewhat popluar before lilac become playable)

Dark choco x milk

Milk x Yam

Yam x Dark choco

Aloe x cyborg

marshmellow x maracon

peach x plum

starfruit x pomgenrate

spinach x sandwhich

DJ x Lemon

DJ x rockstar

Avocado x dark choco

Avocado x pishchaio

Avocado x Yoga

Avocado x Matcha

rockstar x mint

tiger lily x advneturer

Cinnamon x maracon

rebel x ninja

rollcake x kiwi

mocha x lobster

Skating queen x ice candy

Dark Choco x Knight

wasabi x dark enchantress

ninja x muscles

Lemon x Orange

Lemon x hero

Lemon x Lime

and I think that's it for now...will add more whenever I remember

semi popular/Least known ships(because they deserve a section too.Feel to correct me if certain ships should be added to main list or put here since my memory is foggy)

firemoon(fire spirit x moonlight)

seawind(sea fairy x wind archer)

werewolf x vampire

sugar swan x millennial tree

rougefort x sparkling

redbean x ninja

pirate x salt

pirate x ice captain

scopian x bellflower

Mustard x gumball

[0vergrowngraveyard]

how about something like “actually tails doesn’t have a body count” instead

he doesn’t tho what are you talking about

[trash-art-cat]

Redraw of smth i made in 2020! I love cookie run and their holiday fancy outfits

[djrockers]

Seeing that devsisters completely changed the shop in crk, I thought I'd share all my favorite shop art that I've saved from the old shop through the years.

(this last one is so pretty honestly)

a cute bonus from the newer shop:

[rhymeswithfart]

Please look at this link below! 👇urgent help needed for treatment. For more information on this family's story visit the blog ahmad-1960

Vetting info here . $3,588 / 40k

[yonemurishiroku]

Headcanon the Cocoa Puffs don’t eat but take nutritions telepathically from Nico.

What does it mean? It means that half of everything Nico eats would go to the Cocoa Puffs. They literally feed off his energy like a baby in their mother’s womb.

This results in Nico getting hungry faster and more often, which results in him eating much larger meals in order to keep up with the energy spend. Which is a good thing! And now whenever people see him he’s having something in his mouth or Will’s stuffing something in his mouth.

Why all of this, you ask? Well Rick decided that Nico having a children is a good thing so if I’m not going full force with the whole teen parent thing just assume I’m ded. The Puffs are literally Nico’s inner demons manifested, I’ll be damned if I’m not exploiting that disgustingly beautiful concept.

[clockspur]

🎶C’est Bon, C’est Bon🎶

[eowynstwin]

I’m doing a chocolate advent calendar this year and while I don’t plan to share every day I figured I’ll share my favorites—this is a very fruity dark chocolate (72% cocoa which is my favorite range, 70-80 is a nice spot) and it’s DELICIOUS. Smaller brands really are better.

Here’s the calendar itself:

[wakacreations]

Zevlor's Bizarre Cocoa Adventure (Ch. 5)

Author's Note:

I did not forget the plot of this story.

@falcatamandarina

Prologue Ch1 Ch2 Ch3 Ch4 Ch5

Word Count: 3986

Summary:

The boys share a heartwarming moment at the campfire. Zevlor, Blurg and Omeluum set off from Ebonlake Grotto. Will the three companions get along on this journey?

What was going on between his companions. He had no clue. The hobgoblin gathered the food stuff for tonight's dinner. “Maybe something light in case the paladin still has a light stomach” he thought. He understood there would be tension between Zevlor and Omeluum. He half expected as much. Omeluum had their quirks about them. One part being a mindflayer and the other their unbridled directness. For an intellectual being you would think they would understand social cues. “Maybe you are what you eat extends to mindflayers?” Blurg thought as he scratched his chin.

They did eat one too many cocky would be “adventurers” (too many foolish mercenaries looking to establish themselves). Maybe a change in diet would do them some good. Though Omeluum still seemed unfazed by Zevlor’s words when he followed behind to the tent. If anything they were still their happy cheery self busying themselves with analyzing their latest batch of cocoa. Blurg peered over the table within view of the campfire. The tiefling was busy with tending to the campfire. He himself questioned why they didn't just use the stack of firebolt scrolls beside the logs. Zevlor mumbled some words as the fire flickered to life.

The older tiefling was strange in his own right but maybe those are the habits of paladins. Sick one moment, deny they are anything but up and well. The next moment focused on their objective while they're mentally scrabbled elsewhere. At the very end worrying about things not within their power or control for the sake of others. Rolan was correct in saying Zevlor was a bit of a sensitive case. From what the Master of Ramazith tower was willing to tell of their tale of Elturel to Baldur’s Gate, the poor guy needs a break as much as the rest of them. Maybe even more so.

The tiefling stared intently on the blazing inferno. The tired lines of their face are more pronounced against the bright orange flames. Alone they seemed as the shadows blanketed their frame. Untouchable to those around but to only just gaze upon like a somber painting. “Whatever is going on in that mind of theirs, it was best just to keep an eye out.” Blurg thought, sharpening the blade of his butcher’s knife.

“You've been staring at that fire for quite awhile friend” a deep raspy voice called over his shoulder. Zevlor turned to his right only to be met by too close of a set of nostrils obscuring his view. “By the gods! Some personal space!” Zevlor stumbled back from his crate, poised ready on his feet. A fist clenching his chest and the other remains hovering over his blade on hip. When did they get so close?! “I didn't mean to frighten you, friend. I just needed to use the campfire.” Blurg held up his hands to the Hellrider, sweat trickled down their neck. 

“Easy there. So… Soup or a nice porridge would do for you?” the hobgoblin nervously chuckled. Zevlor blinked at the cook. The silence hung in the air as the question circled back around to his ears. “A porridge. Thank you. I didn't mean… I'm sorry,” the tiefling curled inwardly, dropping his blade hand. His face turned away. The hobgoblin placed a clay pot onto the fire. “It’s alright. Should of known better than to sneak up on a paladin. Not my brightest decision” Blurg gave a hearty laugh. They gestured back towards the crate. “I hope I didn't frighten you enough to not share in my company. Please come sit.” Reluctantly Zevlor sat back down on his seat beside them, tail laid limply on his lap.

“I won't trouble you for what's going on in that mind of yours. Because what goes on in there is your business but I will bother you to indulge in my stories. If you want to talk please interrupt my babbling” Blurg gave him a wink. What kind of company did I find myself with? The hobgoblin did know how to fill the air for one thing. They went on to describe their personal research outside of the Society of Brilliance. The topic of cheesomancy and its magical capabilities as a martial art. The topic of its combat prowess did peak his interest but only to humour the man. Blurg once recounted how a brawl broke out at the Blushing Mermaid. He summoned forth a round of Waterdhavian in hand to be met by the crown of a drunken oaf.

All of this harrowing tale started when Omeluum was smuggled into the tavern under the guise of Durinbold Cheese wedge. Blurg wished to see his cheesomancy brought to practical use. Second, he questioned whether it was possible for Omeluum to use his psionic ability while in the form of a cheese. The mindflayer agreed to his experiment. In exchange his partner wanted to observe the taven’s patrons (no matter what disguise they undertook, patrons would be drawn to the “psionic nature” of the illithid). Though the hobgoblin did mention that the illithid would always take an alluring form like some sort of dream guardian (Omeluum explained these were the forms they knew by memory). 

The hobgoblin came to the conclusion that the lich, Omeluum's past partner did have a specific “type” when it came to their necromantic subjects. It didn't help either that the “adventurers” who disrupted the encampment were easy on the eyes as well. Blurg questioned them why they didn’t just polymorph to be a fly or something of an equivalent stature. They didn't feel the need to know what a squashed insect felt like or equivalent (Omeluum would not admit they did enjoy the attention that came with their “alluring” forms. It was one of the few times they felt accepted outside of the Underdark and the Society of Brilliance. To be treated like an equal rather than an eldritch horror). 

Blurg and Omeluum were having a telepathic conversation when a drunkard grabbed the cheese cloaked illithid. "The damn fool was hungry!” Blurg slapped their own knee while their belly jiggled from laughter. “He said if you are so busy staring at the stinken cheese, I might as well eat it.” Zevlor's eyes watered trying to keep a straight face. “Then Omeluum was having none of their nonsense and began to transform back. I yelled at them to turn into a squid that would be easier to explain. So, they did. You want to know what happened next?” Blurg said letting the tension build. “What?” the paladin leaned in, now invested in the story.

“The guy that spat out Omeluum was truly gobsmacked to see the squid squirming about. He turned to me and said ‘What in gods names is that!’ and I said ‘Seafood?’.” Blurg cackled. Zevlor tried to breathe but his sides hurt and spasmed. “You know what the guy did?” the hobgoblin wiping away some tears. “What?” he smiled. “He swung at me.” They both collapsed in a fit of laughter. “The worst part. He missed. The damn drunken bloody buffoon missed” Blurg howled. Once the last of their shared cackles subsided, a comfortable silence fell upon the two men.

 “You know Zevlor, you would make a great practitioner!” Blurg clapped at his back when he took a spoonful of porridge. Zevlor coughed as he fought to dislodge the oats from his lungs. “Blurg… While I do enjoy your enthusiasm. Let’s keep the dairy wizardry to the professional chefs or the curious hungry wizards for that matter.” He resumed eating though kept a cautious eye on his companion. “If you ever face any trouble. Any at all just know that I'm armed.” The hobgoblin gestured their hand to their right bicep. “Please. If anything I would be expecting to save you on this journey of ours.” Zevlor scoffed. “And maybe even the illithid Omeluum” he shortly added. The hobgoblin gave him a wide toothy grin.

“There is that cocky vibrato I expected from a paladin. Then I'll be happily saved by you oh noble knight.” Blurg held his fist towards the aged Hellrider. “Well it is a kind gesture to know I'll have support for what trouble we come across,” the Hellrider bumps their fist with his own. “How are you so sure we'll be met with trouble? That is surely optimistic of you,” Blurg wiggled their brow. “From what you’ve told me of your shared ventures. Our journey won't be that far different from your usual tone of shenanigans,” Zevlor sighed as he rubbed his temple to subdue the yet to be migraine. His mind already conjures a number of scenarios their journey could unexpectedly encounter. 

“Well don't stay up too late with whatever what ifs or other unnecessary thoughts. We have a long journey ahead,” Blurg yawned, stretching themselves onto a bedroll. “Agreed” Zevlor still remained seated near the campfire. “If ya need anything. Just wake me up it's no bother at all,” as they turned in the bedroll,  waving the tiefling off. “Good night Zevlor,” the hobgoblin mumbled. “Good night, Blurg. I'll see you in the morning.. my friend.” The Hellrider was met by only the snores from his companion at that last acknowledgement. 

“It's good to know at rest the hobgoblin would scare off any beast that may be lurking,” Zevlor thought, chuckling to himself. I should probably take Blurg's and I's own advice. There will always be more time for I to be alone with these thoughts. The paladin made his way to his bedroll. “If only the view from here was better. I would imagine the summer’s night sky is beautiful tonight,” his mind drifted off as he laid on his bedroll. Embers now smoldered on their campfire. The myconids' psionic tune now muted. For once since the tiefling party Zevlor had a dreamless night.*

The sound of a roaring crackling fire stirred his slumber. The smell of sizzling pork belly wafting through the air. He was but greedy to attempt to linger back to bedrest. Try as he might, the discipline of a commander is too ingrained in his habits. Zevlor begrudgingly sat up from his bedroll and began his morning stretches. “Ah, good mornin Zevlor! Looks like the smell of food awoke your appetite.” Blurg beamed at him from the fire. “Good morning to you as well Blurg. Did you sleep well?,” as he finished the last of his exercises. “Slept better than a babe would you believe? How about you?” The hobgoblin slid the food onto the waiting plates.

“I am surprised a paladin would dare to sleep in for a change” they heckled, setting down the cutlery. “Such a thing is not far from the imagination Blurg. From the snores you were producing, I almost assumed a bugbear had infiltrated our camp.” Zevlor quipped, taking a seat at the table. “Coffee or tea, Zevlor?” Blurg held up a kettle. “I am well rested. Coffee if you will. Our journey will take some time and I fully intend for us to make some good progress.” The tiefling neatly places a rag onto his lap. Zevlor began to eat his breakfast but paused for a moment. “Will Omeluum be joining us for breakfast, Blurg?”, the Hellrider eyed the hobgoblin curiously. Blurg sat down across from them, indulging in their breakfast. 

“Omeluum is finishing up with the last minute tasks to maintain the grotto” they said in between their swallows of food. “They are currently speaking with the myconids as we speak. To check to see if there are any anomalies they have noticed as of late.” Zevlor’s ears twitched at that last sentence. His tail brushing up against the blade at his hip. “What kind of anomalies? If you do not mind enlightening me” he took a sip of his coffee. Best be prepared for anything. The hobgoblin took a swig from the carafe of water. They raised an eyebrow in contemplation then closed their eyes. “Supplies have been going missing as of late. You've heard the stories from Baldur’s Gate,” Blurg sighed.

Shipments had been attacked traversing the Underdark he knew. The Baldur’s Mouth Gazette made sure everyone within breathing distance heard the news. Zevlor didn't think much was out of the ordinary. Stretches without shipments weren't unheard of. “We have been speaking with the myconids. They were unable to commune with these beings.” Blurg shutters at their own words.The Hellrider looked upon the hobgoblin puzzled. Blurg motion for the tiefling for their ear. “They repelled their psionic intrusion,” they whispered. His heartbeat seized, the world seemed to sway lightly. What creature could possibly do such a feat? “Were the myconids able to give a general description?” Zevlor tensed. “Let’s wait to see what Omeluum has to say. Maybe we’ll receive some good news. Even a perpetrator if we're lucky.” The hobgoblin smiled but it didn't reach their eyes.

As we arrived at the entrance of the grotto, the drum beat of psionic pulses reverberated the ground. There laid in wait was a group of myconids huddled together obscuring the path. Something sweet and pleasant drifted in the air. “The faint fragrance of? Vanilla? That can't be right..” thought the Hellrider. “Good morning Blurg Zevlor. Were your provisions satisfactory?” The illithid floated before them from between the clustering mushrooms. “It was quite lovely Omeluum. Thank you for asking! Wouldn’t you agree, Zevlor?” The hobgoblin patted their stomach. “Yes, of course. It was a wonderful breakfast. Thank you again for your hospitality.” Zevlor gave a courteous nod. “Then do you have all that you acquire?” Omeluum glanced at the rucksack and satchel their companions were wearing. “We have all that we need for our journey ahead,” the Hellrider said, adjusting their pack. “The myconids have reported no disturbance as of late. Now then shall we begin?” The illithid gestured to the path before them.

What laid before them was a field of mushrooms. One looks as if they originated from the sea. “Timmask. The spores will leave you disoriented” Omeluum chimed. Another pulsed with a reddish glow. They seemed to grow in size as we circled around the fungi. “Watch out for that one. Torchstalk. I've seen a number of creatures blown to bits” Blurg pointed back. “What of those smaller uniformed mushroom clusters?” Zevlor said, his eyes gazing at the small yellowish mushroom before them. “Swarming Toadstool. Drow poison. You could pick some if you would like,” the hobgoblin eyed the plant. With a delicate hand, the tiefling safely wrapped the mushrooms and stored them in his pack. “It's unlikely I'll need to use some but you never know,” Zevlor thought.

The Underdark was beautiful in the otherworldly sense. Where you would expect trees you would find crystals that rival their size. Instead of the dazzling rays of the sun, you'll find mushrooms dotting the lands like the torchlights of a city. The usual warmth from overhead is replaced by the suffocating warmth from being so far down below. Though the humidity was the same no matter if you were above or below. “As for the wildlife we are of yet to encounter. It is unnerving to not have come across,” his mind wanders, hand resting on the handle of his blade. The sound of the shifting rocks that echo off these walls was unnerving. Was it natural or something lurking just over the cliff faces? His companions did not seem too phased to all the sights and sounds around them. How much did they grow accustomed to the noise? Could they still detect if something were to be amiss? “If something were to be. I would assume they would know,” Zevlor glanced at his illithid companion. 

He did not know much about them other than their devotion for peace. Their motivation to do so was beyond him. It's such a strange concept to think about. In just months prior, their kind would come to bring chaos to the world but for one to wish to champion unity well… Now that he thought about it more thoroughly they were no different from them. The tentacles that move of their own accord. Their tall imposing stature that eclipses whoever they spoke to. Whether they levitated or remained grounded, their presence was chilling. Their four clawed hands and two toed webbed feet that used to be bloodied when they first transformed. Their soulless piercing eyes was a reminder these were beings far from human or anything within our comprehension. These beings originated beyond where deities stake their claims among the realms. The gods don't watch over these beings.

Mindflayers still yearned to be one. If that meant becoming one of them or one with them it doesn't matter to them in the slightest. What mattered is if you were one of them, of the same side. “Too many of those who befallen didn't meet their arbitrary requirements. Even then, if you were for their cause,” his grip tightened over the handle. Their devotion was nothing if you weren't chosen. “You are unworthy of being a true soul,” a female voice whispered in his ear. It couldn't be. “Hellrider,” she teased. “Zevlor,” they inquired.

“When we reach the beach. We shall sail to the Baldur’s Gate in the morning,” the mindflayer turned towards his companions. “Sounds good to me. What about you Zev?” the hobgoblin asked. “Zevlor?” they prompted again. The paladin snapped back into focus. “Oh, yes. That should be fine. How far are we from the point of departure,” he awkwardly scanned about. Omeluum extends a finger before them. The rocky shores were further down below from where their perch was on the path. “Ah, thank you,” he coughed, venturing forth. That was.. something.

A rickety suspended bridge came into view. “It’s safe,” the hobgoblin said as they confidently walked to the other side. Blurg waved him on to follow. The wooden boards swayed under the tiefling's feet. “Steady,” Zevlor reminded himself, slowly crouching across. When he began to put his weight on the board before him, it splintered from the pressure. His leg hovered over the new opening. The sound of a high pitched thud echoed as the board fell down below. The paladin looked up at Blurg. “It was safe enough.. to hold their weight?” they answered sheepishly, shrugging their shoulders. “Good to know,” Zevlor answered as he patted them on the back. He looked over his shoulder to watch as Omeluum flew to meet them.

The village around them was dilapidated. No signs of life as far as he could discern. For whom might have lived here he was unsure. “This village” the hobgoblin began. “Used to frolic with deep gnomes from what the myconids have told me. It's still such a shame really.” Blurg look on at the broken in doors. “When I arrived at Ebonlake Grotto the duergar had already took over. There were no deep gnomes left,” the hobgoblin smiled bitterly. The evidence of their words became more apparent as they continued onwards.

Some light blood splatters lined the exterior walls and on the wooden boards beneath their feet. Broken bottles on the ground surrounded by ash now grew small shrooms. They passed by the front door of one of the homes, a meal sat unfinished on the table. “What of the duergar? The deep gnomes?” Zevlor asked somberly. “The duergar enslaved the gnomes in the Absolute’s name. Though from my understanding such events would have taken place even without their cause,” Omeluum answered. “The myconids were kind enough to allow us to tend to the survivors or any runaways. As for what happened to the duergar or what’s left of them… Tav had come through,” the hobgoblin chuckled. Zevlor raised a brow in a curious surprise. 

He knew their band would be far behind them but he never expected... They would make their ways through the Underdark to reach Baldur’s Gate. To go on such a journey right after defeating the goblin camp, would be ill advised from his perspective. Though he had a feeling the Archdruid Halsin had an influence on the matter. Maybe things would have been.. more safer on the road if Tav were there. No. They held faith he would be fine and able to lead his people to Baldur’s Gate. If Tav were to travel with their caravan, they would bear witness to his betrayal.

The hurt look of utter disbelief upon their face. The anguish from their voice as they plead and beg for him to see reason. The shakiness of their form whether to slay I, the heretic before everyone could see. “They should never have to make that decision,” he winced, his tail scraping the ground. Maybe it’s by Tymora’s grace Tav was spared such a fate. Maybe it’s by Illmater’s suffering that he was freed from the mindflayer pod. No matter what divinity that fate took the form of, he had to repent for the souls that were lost under his watch. It was by Tav’s kind hand that spurred on this journey. To follow along their same path to the surface was quite a strange feeling.

“Tav spared the duergar they could. They slain those who chose violence in the end. For those who harmed the gnomes you could well.. figure out the rest” Blurg continued. “That's very in character for them,” Zevlor nodded along to the hobgoblin’s words. They were not to be trifled with, especially in the need of others. It made him question if it were compassion for those before or their spite against fate that led them to be so empowered during battle. Maybe both were the answers. “As for the deep gnomes, they stayed at our encampment to recuperate and resupply. They made a safe passage to Baldur's Gate the following day,” Omeluum reassured the tiefling. 

Zevlor’s eyes wandered to the rows of houses as they ventured further down. Some buildings appeared to have been mended; damaged windows were boarded up, sections of exposed roof were sealed off, and scaffolding hugged the walls of some of the most damaged dwellings. “It seems this village is being repaired. Is this any of your doings?” Zevlor inquired. “We figured no one else would have. Besides, it would make traversing easier for those who wish to venture through the Underdark,” Blurg said. They were right. No one would care with the exception being them. “Not many are open to having their lodging and amenities close to the myconids,” Omeluum hummed disapprovingly. The hobgoblin and the tiefling shared a bewildered look at the mindflayer. That statement came to no one's surprise at all. 

"What is that?” Blurg pointed further on. Littered on the ground laid articles of clothing and rifled through trunks. Opened damaged crates appeared to have been thrown about haphazardly. The slight whiff of iron hit his nostrils. Zevlor readied his blade as they moved in closer. They came upon a large cart obscuring their path. “Omeluum?” the hobgoblin called to the illithid. “I don't detect any presence of any minds,” they confirmed. “That does not account for the bodies,” the Hellrider said, as he made for the left flank. He pointed to Blurg to make for the right. The lingering smell of blood and decay grew stronger. When they came to the front of the wagon it was a horrible sight.

Two heavily mangled corpses of rothe were smeared on the ground. Their entrails were scattered about. Zevlor kneeled before the animals. He ran his fingers through the damp bloodsoaked fur. It was still warm. “Stay alert. Whomever or whatever killed these rothe may still be in the area,” he commanded, scanning the cliff faces high above them. A couple of pebbles skidded down the rock walls. He heard an almost familiar young murmur. Rocks continued to trickle down. Suddenly the ground beneath rapidly violently shook. The rock faces surrounding them shattered. “Watch out!” Omeluum screeched as the boulders rained down upon them.

*If you're curious on how the tiefling party went, the party

[sketchinfun]

Had another Disneyland day yesterday! Mainly did a lot of picture taking and went on a couple rides. I also had a fun impromptu pic with a First Order stormtrooper in Batuu as I was taking another photo. It was super cool, and I’ve never experienced that before! Definitely one of those “Disney magic” moments haha Overall it was a wonderful day!

[specterslefteyebrow]

its 28 days until christmas yknow what THAT means

aww theyre matching!!!!!!

[jacmirie]

daily doodle challenge - set 49

[sunnysidesunshine]

'Eggnog'

[macabrecabra]

A suggestion from Bluesky this time was to get money and food from someone shady who underestimates Milk....

Who better than their older sibling Fuxi who is an accomplished Rogue Sneaky Bastard?

Also Milk spends their money VERY responsibly on STYLE.

Now that Milk has money AND hot cocoa, what should he do next??

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Milk's Wizard Adventure updates on Wednesday and is tagged as "Milks's Wizard Adventure" on my blog if you want to follow this powerful wizard on his path to ADVENTURE!