°‧ 𓆝 𓆟 ·｡°‧ 𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 ·｡°‧ 𓆝 𓆟·｡ The Syrup Sea glittered beneath a cotton-candy sky, its golden surface rolling in slow, thick waves while schools of Swedish Fish leapt like living rubies. Far below, something enormous shifted, sending lazy ripples toward shore.

Moored at the caramel dock was an utterly impractical little boat.

It was made entirely of gingerbread.

The Mad Regent lounged inside it with one boot hooked over the side, lazily stirring the syrup with an oversized silver spoon.

He looked up as you approached. “There you are, darling.”

He patted the seat across from him.“I’ve decided we’re going boating.

A pause for suspense. “The Leviathan has been following me all week, & I thought it might enjoy meeting you properly.”

As if on cue, the syrup bulged beneath the boat. A colossal sugar-glass eye opened just below the surface.

The Mad Regent smiled. “Oh, perfect timing.” He pushed the tiny gingerbread boat away from the dock with one finger.

“Try not to scream.” His grin widened. “It encourages him.”