The sharp mountain air bit at Dark Choco Cookie's cheeks, a welcome chill against the exertion of his training. Flakes of snow danced around him as he stood in the training grounds.

"Alright, Prince," he said to himself, adjusting the grip on his sword. "Just a few more hours, and you can finally rest...!"

He launched into a series of swift cuts, the sword whistling through the frigid air. He imagined his father watching from a distance – stern. Then, just as quickly, he pictured the smiles of the Cookies he vowed to protect. That thought burned brighter, fueling a fresh surge of energy. He took a deep breath, his raven hair stirring in the wind. "Stronger. Always stronger..."