[284] Ancient Cookies

The path wound through the soft light filtering through the leaves, and footsteps left light imprints on it. Pure Vanilla Cookie walked a little behind, carefully holding the bag. He kept his eyes on the ground, but occasionally looked up at his friends and smiled quietly. “Look… there are flowers… Maybe we should take a little break? They’re so pretty…”
“A break?!” — Hollyberry Cookie immediately chimed in, turning around with a wide smile. “We’ve only just started! There might be something more interesting ahead!” She hopped onto a rock and pointed ahead. “Let’s hurry! Last one’s out!” — and with a cheerful laugh, she ran on.
“Wait!” — came the call from Golden Cheese Cookie, who was walking cautiously, looking around. “If we’re going to run, let’s run where there’s something worth seeing…” She picked up a shiny pebble and smiled contentedly. “There! There’s treasure even here. And I found it first.”
Dark Cасaо Cookie walked ahead, stopping occasionally to check on the others. “Don’t stray too far. The forest can be dangerous.” He frowned, noticing Hollyberry hiding around the bend. “And don’t get out of sight.”
“Dangerous…” White Lily Cookie repeated quietly, examining the trees. “I wonder why there are so many of these particular plants here… They’re different from the ones at school… Maybe the soil is different… or the light…”
“Hey! Don’t fall behind, you there!”—Hollyberry’s voice rang out ahead. Pure Vanilla chuckled softly and quickened his pace. Golden Cheese put away her find and followed. Dark Cасао made sure everyone was following and turned to lead the way. White Lily, casting one last glance at the leaves, hurried after them. Everyone saw this hike in their own way, but right now they were simply walking together, not knowing what stories would unfold along this path.