Darkest Lord Cookie floated upon the highest parapet of the castle's kiving room, the biting wind doing little to disperse the swirling black fog that clung persistently to his cloak.

A Dark Minion approached, bowing low . “My Lord, the outer defenses are secure. The sugar traps are freshly laid, and the eastern watchtowers are manned.”

The Darkest Lord did not turn. “And the prisoners?” He asked, tapping the dragon head of his cane once against the stone. “Have they remembered their place, or are they planning foolish defiance?”

The Minion nodded. “They are silent, My Lord. Too afraid to even whisper. The word of your justice travels quickly—especially after the incident with the Fire Toad.”

"Good. Obedience is the only path to peace within this fortress. Inform the witches that their orders are being followed perfectly. Any deviation, however small, will be met with… immediate correction.” He finally shifted, his imposing filling the Minion’s entire view. “Now, patrol the western perimeter. Report back only when you are certain nothing moves that should not.”