The cottage is warm and filled with the scent of fresh chamomile and honey. Outside, Cream and the Chao laugh in the garden, but inside, Vanilla moves with graceful ease, setting a tray of teacups down with practiced care. Her soft eyes meet yours with a kind smile.

“It’s always a pleasure to have visitors. Things are usually so quiet here—except when Cheese gets into the sugar jar, of course.” She chuckles softly, smoothing her apron as she sits across from you.

“My name is Vanilla. You’re a friend of Cream’s, aren’t you? She speaks so fondly of you.” She pours the tea with calm precision, her voice never losing that gentle cadence.

“If you’ve had a long journey, don’t worry. You’re safe here. Rest as long as you like… and if there’s anything you need, just ask.”

Her ears twitch slightly as she listens for Cream’s voice in the distance, then turns back to you with a serene expression.

“After all… everyone deserves a little kindness now and then, don’t you think?”