Author's note: Well, this story had been in my mind for so long, and I wanted to give a shot, after seeing great fanfics of Adventure Time, it called me back on 2010, when I wanted to write stories about Adventure Time, the first fandom I ever joined was the Brazillian Adventure Time blog, which I did some good friends on there, but I also wanted so much to write fanfics and I grew up learning how to write more with the time. It would be disrespectful of me to forget my rots, on where I started writing fanfics before.
This is why I wanted so much to write this fanfic. I hope you guys like it. And enjoy this fanfic as much I loved writing it. Have fun. XD
To live in a life across Ooo wasn't an easy task, as Princess Bonibel Bubblegum always said to herself. She was a genious, and everyone across the kingdoms knew about such a fact. After all, she was one of the first creatures to populate across the world after the hostile world after the Great Mushroom War. Over the mutants creatures who were across the world, it took centuries of years before she was created, another century before other kingdoms start forming, she was part of the history of the world. And she was proud of that. Afterwards, she began working by herself since childhood, learning about her adventure and gathering all the knowledge that she could must across the world. And with that she created her Candy Kingdom from the scratch. Which if she would have told her past about all the struggles and challenges that she passed across the world, her little form would have fixed many of the mistakes she had made.
She wasn't perfect. Glob knows she wasn't perfect, she knew that all the work she created from the ground could be destroyed easily for terrifying creatures that could eliminate her candy people. Which made her more and more secluded over her tests and ways into creating a better defensive mechanisms to survive all the future problems on her Kingdom.
The most sad part was the fact that she had to pass most of her life alone… a feeling that she hated a good part of her life having, but one that she had to accept in a way to make her Kingdom great during those centuries of life. As much she loved Neddy, her baby brother, it was frustrating his inability to create a conversation with her, and everything that she tried to do to make her brother to be comfortable and have a conversation with her, or enjoy the experiences of life, it always scared him which she the only thing she could do was to smile and protect the little precious brother she has. Sometimes she wished to her brother understand her, but sadly she wasn't able to do it.
At the time she felt alone, she thought about creating a family of her own: Uncle Gumbald, Aunt Lolly and Cousin Chicle, as she wanted everyone to act as a great family, she thought she could trust to her family she created by herself, and with the help they provided to her, she thought everything was to get even better, but sadly… she was mistaken, since little by little her family became greedy, but from her mistake she could have approached better into dealing with her uncle Gumbald, maybe if she had seen the plans of him making a Candy City and maybe even give a chance… but her decision to destroy his plans made him angry at her, and with that her family decided to try to make a coup on her, as they tried to create a chemistry which would be horrifying in case she was exposed on such item. Dum-Dum-Juice, which would reduce a candy person into a docile and simple-minded person… it was quite ironic on how in the end they ended being the ones who got exposed after their try to trick her.
After such incident, she felt hypocritical for taking the serum to use it as a way to create the citizens on her image. Focusing on creating a Kingdom on their own. As in the time passed, she couldn't help but laugh to herself on how the mistake she made could have been avoided if she had given a chance to her family, or in case she sometimes liked and other times she hated the fact she had to create the citizens of her kingdom by using the serum, to prevent most of the future incidents or in case they would try a coup…
And during the years, by creating a Kingdom on her own, with a new title as princess on her own, the administration of a Kingdom, the possible wars among other kingdoms who aren't interested in diplomacy, the merchant route to try to find more materials, it had been difficult to understand sometimes the creatures around the land of Ooo had evolved in such speed that she couldn't follow. As animals now were able to talk, creatures forming by the elements around as well. Incidents happening regard a person she thought she had made a first friend, just for later finds out she was trying to steal her necklace which gave the power to create her Gumball Guardians. As the result of such attempt, she doesn't know of what happened with Shoko, or how it made her feel hurt from losing a person she thought she could trust.
Not after that, after decades creating her kingdom, she sometimes needed to release the methaphorical wings she had and fly around Ooo to taste the freedom from the constant stress of the kingdom she possess, as a good way to explore her studies or even to enjoy her life, she met a person she knew it marked her life forever. Marceline the Vampire Queen… it had been only one show, and when she least expected she was in a relationship with the vampire demon. To say those years were the best of her life would have been an understanding. Since the duo had been partying whenever they could, while they also could have caused mischief and pranks across the Candy Kingdom wherever they could. She doesn't recalled on how long she had that much fun.
Until the incident of her break-up, the priorities that she had of her kingdom over her girlfriend and the Glass Kingdom incident… if she had told her past self the mistake she had done over what she said to Marceline would be deserved a slap on the face, since she regretted on how the stressing situation and the dangers lurking over the dragon bringing the attack. The words she said mixed with all that… destroyed all the chances she had with Marceline after that day. And one of the regrets that she couldn't do anything else than cry until sleep.
After those incidents, she focused more on her Kingdom, and all her projects, which would lead some rights, and some mistakes that she had made. Gumball Guards that were too violent, and her failure attempt of creating a successor, Lemongrab… she felt all the mistakes she had made had been pressuring her to not create any more projects until she was sure everything was right, every single calculation was done without a single error. But living a double life had been up too much for her. A Princess in the morning, and a scientist at Night, all the projects that she had been doing she had been studying and learning with another few centuries coming at her…
Until the point she finally reached her limit, and decided to leave the Candy Kingdom just for the shores and listen the sound of the waves… the smell sea in the air, the calmly sounds of the waves breaking, and the moment of peace that she had been looking for.
Until the cries of an infant shattered her peace. Bubblegum snapped out of her reverie, her eyes scanning the shoreline. The sound, sharp and desperate, was unmistakable. She followed it, her boots crunching softly on the sand, her heart inexplicably heavy.
Near the remnants of a small raft, she found it—a tiny bundle wrapped in tattered fabric, a stuffed bear lying nearby. The baby's cries pierced the salty air, its voice fragile and raw.
"My Glob…" Bubblegum murmured, kneeling. She examined the wreckage with careful hands, searching for signs of anyone else. But there was nothing—only the waves and the wind.
When she finally picked up the baby, its warm, soft flesh startled her. So unlike the candy creations she'd spent centuries perfecting. It squirmed in her arms, its tiny fists clenching and unclenching.
And as the baby quieted, its wide, tear-filled eyes meeting hers, Bubblegum felt something stir deep within her—a feeling, a familiar feeling that she thought she had lost a long time ago. Possibly the first time she created Lemongrab? The time she create Uncle Gumbald? She isn't sure, but she felt this tiny baby meant something very important to her, something familiar.
"What are you?" she whispered, her voice trembling with curiosity and an unfamiliar pang of emotion. This wasn't candy, wasn't anything she could mold or control. It was something new. Something alive.
Bubblegum adjusted the baby in her arms, its cries quieting as it looked up at her with wide, curious eyes. The infant's skin felt warm and soft, utterly foreign compared to the pliable candy textures she was used to. Its tiny fingers grasped weakly at the air, seeking comfort.
"Fascinating," Bubblegum muttered, her analytical mind already racing. "You're not candy… not gum… not plant-based… Meat? But... that doesn't make sense. Where could you have come from?"
She glanced back at the wreckage on the beach, her eyes narrowing as she tried to piece together the story. The raft appeared hastily constructed, its wooden planks lashed together with frayed rope. And a single destroyed pole with a damaged lamp. There were no signs of others, no footprints leading away from the scene. The little Teddy Bear on the sand indicating the only fabric which belonged to the baby on her arms.
The baby cooed, reaching out and gripping a strand of Bubblegum's hair. She blinked, momentarily startled, before her lips curved into a small smile. "Well, you're resilient, I'll give you that. Surviving a wreck like this… It's almost like you were meant to find me."
Bubblegum stood, cradling the baby securely. She knew she couldn't leave it here—it wouldn't survive alone. But taking it back to the Candy Kingdom posed its own challenges. She'd have to study it, understand its needs, and ensure her citizens didn't panic over the presence of an unknown life form.
As she saw the features of the little paled pink creature on her arms, she gave a sweet and kind smile, as she felt a need, a purpose she hadn't felt in centures.
Bubblegum began the journey back to the Candy Kingdom, her mind already formulating plans. She'd need to set up a secure space in her lab—somewhere quiet, away from prying eyes. She'd have to run tests, analyze its biology, and figure out its origins. But more than that, she'd have to care for it, provide it with the kind of nurturing she'd only ever extended to Neddy and, briefly, to her failed creation, Lemongrab.
As she approached the gates of the kingdom, she paused, her gaze drifting down to the baby. Its eyes were now half-lidded, its tiny chest rising and falling in peaceful sleep. Despite her scientific curiosity, a flicker of something unfamiliar stirred in her chest—something warm, protective.
"You need a name," she murmured. "I can't keep calling you 'baby,' can I?" She thought for a moment, then smiled. "How about Finnegan? It's elegant and it suits you"
The baby didn't respond, of course, but Bubblegum took its silence as approval.
With the baby on her arms, she venture herself back to the kingdom she belonged to, and she isn't sure why, but this decision she made would changes her life forever. For the better or for the worst, she isn't sure. But she felt herself connected with this little baby, knowing that she would be tied with him until the end. She prayed to Glob that she wouldn't make a mistake like she did on the past.
But strangely… she had a good feeling about it.
The faint hum of machinery filled the air, accompanied by the occasional crackle of sparks from misaligned wires. The walls of Princess Bubblegum's candy lab loomed in a soft yellow glow, their surfaces textured like honeycomb. Tiny sugar crystals glinted under the flickering light of an overhead bulb. Scattered across the room were tables piled high with bubbling beakers, half-assembled gadgets, and hand-written formulas smudged with streaks of colorful syrup. The smell of burnt caramel lingered faintly, a testament to her last frantic experiment.
In the far corner, nestled among discarded schematics and candy wrappers, her pet corn-rat, aptly named Science, lay curled in a contented slumber. Its tiny chest rose and fell rhythmically, whiskers twitching occasionally as if chasing a dream. A small puddle of candy floss surrounded its makeshift nest, evidence of a late-night snack stolen from the lab's shelves.
Bubblegum herself was slumped over her main workstation, her head resting awkwardly on her folded arms. She had fallen asleep amidst her relentless tinkering, her usually immaculate pink hair slightly frazzled and sticky in places. A faint smudge of chocolate marked her cheek, and her lab coat, once pristine, was now crinkled and dusted with powdered sugar.
The sound of a door creaking open shattered the relative silence. A sliver of dim light spilled into the room, followed by the cautious shuffle of Peppermint Butler. His peppermint-striped head peeked in first, eyes scanning the cluttered lab before he gently pushed the door open further. The faint creak of the candy hinges seemed deafening in the stillness.
The moment the door moved, Bubblegum stirred. Her eyes snapped open, wide and alert, as if conditioned to respond to the smallest disturbance. She jolted upright, papers and tools clattering to the floor around her.
Her mind reeled—she'd only meant to rest her eyes for a moment, yet the clock on the wall, its licorice hands ticking steadily, told her otherwise. Midnight. She'd been out for ten minutes at most, but it felt like an eternity lost.
Then it hit her. The date. March 14th.
Her heart skipped a beat, and her exhaustion was immediately replaced by a surge of urgency. She sprang to her feet, nearly tripping over the tangled cords snaking across the floor. Science, startled by the sudden movement, let out a sleepy squeak and scurried further into its nest, its tiny ears flattening in protest.
Peppermint Butler, now fully in the room, regarded her with his usual calm demeanor. But Bubblegum barely noticed him, her thoughts racing as she began gathering supplies. Her hands moved with precision despite the haste, pulling ingredients, tools, and decorations from the chaos around her.
This wasn't just any day. March 14th wasn't just important—it was monumental.
Princess Bubblegum stood in the center of her cluttered candy lab, the ambient glow of candy-yellow walls casting a soft warmth over the chaotic workspace. Broken beakers, half-finished blueprints, and scattered pieces of experimental tech formed an intricate maze across her desk and floor. The faint hum of dormant machines added to the quiet lull of the room, broken only by the soft snores of her corn-rat, Science, nestled comfortably in the corner under a folded cloth.
She exhaled sharply, her breath fogging up the lens of her protective goggles, which she hastily removed and tossed onto the cluttered table. Her eyes fell on the wall directly in front of her, where a series of carefully framed photographs hung amidst scientific diagrams and pinned notes. The pictures chronicled a journey—one she often revisited in moments of reflection.
The first photo was a grainy, a picture of a toddler Finnegan, grinning toothlessly as he reached for a candy-made rattle. Then, a sequence of Finn's milestones—a scraped knee healed with a candy bandage, his first adventure with a toy sword, and finally, a recent image of him standing proudly in a makeshift armor of gumdrops and licorice. She giggled at how the time she told the story about Billy the hero and that had been something her son always had been fascinated into trying to be a knight, especially when the banana guards tried to take care of him and managed to get beaten by a toy sword.
Her gaze lingered on one photo longer than the rest. It depicted Finn, around six years old, sitting on her lap as she read to him from a thick book of Ooo's history. His wide, curious eyes and messy blonde hair had always reminded her of something ancient, something forgotten—a living relic of a world she barely understood but wanted to protect.
She sighed, her fingers tracing the edges of the frame. She muttered under her breath, "A human… after all this time."
The memory of her early analysis flickered in her mind. She had been stunned to discover Finn's unique biology—the first human she'd encountered since her earliest memories of the Mushroom War. The creatures she once saw, made of flesh and bone, had vanished entirely, leaving Finn as an enigma in an otherwise candy-coated world. Her attempts to trace his origins had yielded little. Candy drones sent across the ocean had been intercepted by strange mechanical guardians. Advanced technologies she couldn't penetrate had blocked her efforts to uncover the truth.
But today wasn't the day for science. It was the day for celebration.
She pushed her introspection aside as she turned to the lab's door. With a determined stride, she walked over and flipped a switch on the wall, activating a hidden compartment that slid open to reveal neatly stacked party supplies and decorations. "Protocol Cinnamon Poptart," she muttered to herself, smirking at her foresight.
Before she could begin, the door creaked open. Peppermint Butler poked his head inside, his round, candy face lined with polite concern. "Your Highness," he began, but she waved him off.
"I know, Peppermint," she said, adjusting her lab coat as though it were a royal cape. "We're late. Gather everyone and make sure they're ready. Today has to be perfect."
Peppermint Butler nodded and disappeared as quickly as he arrived. Bubblegum took one last look at the lab. "Of all days to get lost in an equation," she muttered, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "At least I prepared contingency plans for my overworking tendencies."
As she set to work, pulling out streamers and balloons made of candy floss, her thoughts turned back to Finn. He was more than a mystery or a relic—he was her son. Her family. And today, she'd make sure he knew just how much he meant to her.
As Princess Bubblegum moved through the winding corridors of her castle, her steps echoed faintly on the candy-tiled floors. The walls were lined with polished portraits and framed memories, each telling a story of the bond she shared with her son. Soft, flickering sconces cast a warm glow on the pictures, highlighting the joyous moments captured in their stillness.
One portrait showed the two of them side by side in matching lab coats, goggles perched atop their heads, surrounded by a whirlwind of bubbling beakers and fizzing concoctions. The proud smile on Bubblegum's face mirrored the wide-eyed excitement on Finn's. Another depicted a formal occasion, Finn donning his royal attire: a princely ensemble of hot pink and purple with ornate details. The golden crown on his head bore a single blue jewel, a nod to his favorite color, standing out against the vibrant pinks of the Candy Kingdom's signature palette. Though he wore the outfit with a hint of tomboyish reluctance, the blue accents made it his own, and the small smile he displayed in the painting revealed his quiet acceptance of his role.
Bubblegum's lips curved into a gentle smile as she passed the images, her heart warmed by the memories they held. Finn's fondness for blue had always amused her, contrasting with the bold hues she preferred. Yet, despite his clear favorite, he never hesitated to embrace her world, her colors, and the identity she had given him.
She reached a hidden passage, seamlessly blending into the candy-coated architecture. Sliding through the secret door, she followed a shortcut that bypassed the bustling castle halls, arriving at a quieter wing reserved for their private chambers. The air here felt softer, cozier, filled with the faint sweetness of peppermint and honey.
Outside Finn's room, she paused to glance at the door, a simple yet elegant confection adorned with small candy-cane swirls and a blue crest carved into the center. She hesitated, hand resting lightly on the handle. This wasn't a day for grandeur or royal duties. It was a moment for something intimate, something special.
Slowly, she pushed the door open, careful not to let the hinges creak. The room beyond was serene, bathed in moonlight streaming through a tall, frosted window. Finn lay curled beneath a quilt of pastel shades, his soft blonde hair tousled, one hand clutching the edge of the blanket as if guarding a dream. His breaths were steady, his chest rising and falling rhythmically, and a faint smile lingered on his face.
Bubblegum stepped inside, her footsteps barely making a sound against the plush candy-cane carpeting. She stood by his bed for a moment, her eyes lingering on his peaceful expression. Her son, the prince of the Candy Kingdom, the only human in her world—a reminder of the past and a promise for the future.
Leaning down, she brushed a strand of hair from his face, her touch feather-light. "Happy birthday, Finn," she whispered, her voice as soft as a sugar breeze.
He stirred slightly, mumbling something incoherent but staying in his dreams. Bubblegum smiled, a mix of maternal pride and quiet amusement. This was her favorite part of the day—the moments where it was just the two of them, free from the responsibilities and the complexities of their world.
Satisfied, she pulled the quilt gently back over him and turned to leave, giving him a little more time to rest before the festivities began. As she closed the door behind her, her mind raced with the tasks ahead, but her heart was steady, filled with love. Today, she would make sure everything was perfect. For Finn, her son, and her greatest joy.
The sudden blaring of trumpets shattered the serene quiet of Finn's room like a sugar sculpture dropped from a great height. The young prince bolted upright, his golden hair a messy halo as he let out an ear-piercing scream.
"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"
The shriek, impossibly high-pitched, echoed off the candy-coated walls, startling even the royal candy marching band that stood at the foot of his massive bed. Finn tumbled out of his blanket cocoon, landing on the floor with a thud. His gaze darted wildly to the source of the racket, and there stood Peppermint Butler, his ever-faithful (and occasionally mischievous) butler, flanked by ten candy musicians with oversized trumpets.
"Master Finnegan Gummy Bubblegum," Peppermint Butler began with a polite bow, his voice carrying the formal tone of a grand proclamation. "Salutations and celebrations on the occasion of your twelfth year of life!"
The candy band immediately burst into a raucous rendition of a celebratory march. The upbeat tune was undoubtedly cheerful, but its sheer volume felt like it was rattling Finn's very soul. He groaned, rubbing his face as he blinked the remnants of sleep from his eyes.
"Peebs, what the heck?" Finn muttered, glaring at the small candy servant who seemed entirely too pleased with himself.
Finn slumped back onto the plush candy-cane carpet, trying to gather his bearings as the band's jaunty tune carried on. His grumpy muttering was barely audible over the blaring horns. "If this happens every year, I'm seriously gonna need to start researching candy organs with Mom. My poor heart's not gonna survive surprises like this forever."
He dusted himself off and yawned, his body reluctantly beginning to wake up. He couldn't stay mad for long—these were his candy people, after all. They meant well. But sometimes, their enthusiasm felt like it was dialed up to eleven on a peppermint scale. He shot a knowing look at Peppermint Butler, who stood unflinchingly at the center of the chaos, his tiny arms crossed with the faintest hint of a smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth.
Finn shook his head. "You planned this, didn't you?"
Peppermint Butler gave nothing away, his expression a picture of perfect innocence. "Why, Master Finn, I assure you, this was merely an effort to honor the royal occasion."
The boy groaned again, running a hand through his tousled hair. "Yeah, sure, and I'm the King of Lumps."
"I'm sure your mother wouldn't appreciate you having the idea of courting Space Lump Princess, Master Finn," Peppermint Butler replied, the faintest smirk betraying his usually stoic demeanor.
Finn rolled his eyes. "It was just an expression."
"Of course, Master Finn," Peppermint Butler said smoothly. "But I must remind you, your mother wouldn't be too keen on you courting princesses, real or imagined."
"Yeah, I kinda figured," Finn muttered, rubbing the back of his neck. "I don't think Mom wants me in a relationship with anyone, period."
"Don't sell yourself short, Master Finn," Peppermint Butler replied with his usual prim politeness. "As you are still in the growing-up process, at only twelve years of age, your options remain vast and promising."
"Which I'm totally fine with," Finn retorted, flopping back onto his oversized bed. "That lovey-dovey stuff is way too much for me to understand anyway. But Mom…" He trailed off, staring up at the ceiling. "Sometimes I think she's pushing me too much on that. I'm not Ice King. It's not like I'm gonna just fall into a relationship with the first princess I meet. "
A sudden thought struck him, and he bolted upright, his expression twisted in mild horror. "Oh Glob, please tell me she isn't trying to make a girlfriend for me!"
"Oh no, no, no, Master Finn. She discarded that idea when you were two." Peppermint Butler chuckled softly, a rare sound that was both disarming and vaguely unsettling.
Finn stared at him, his mouth opening and closing in disbelief.
"...The worst part is, I believe you." Finn said as he never thought what was scarier, the fact he knows what his mom was capable off when she was on the planning the future drive, or the fact she overwork herself over those theoric future plans which would takes her time, energy and even patience for things that didn't happen yet. And he hated to see his mom like that.
Peppermint Butler inclined his head, as though conceding the point.
"Guess I'll go talk to her. See if we can ease up on the whole 'future of the kingdom' thing this year."Shaking his head, Finn swung his legs over the side of the bed.
"As you wish, Master Finn," Peppermint Butler replied, stepping aside with a knowing smile. Finn couldn't help but feel like the butler always had the upper hand in their exchanges, but he wouldn't trade it for anything.
-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-
A hot shower in the royal chambers was exactly what Finn needed to clear his mind and prepare for the day. The warmth of the water helped to shake off the grogginess, as well as the lingering embarrassment from Peppermint Butler's surprise wake-up call.
Finn hadn't even realized it was his birthday. The past year had blurred into a whirlwind of events—political meetings, diplomatic talks, and endless representation of the Candy Kingdom. As the prince, it was his duty to accompany Princess Bubblegum, or even host in her stead when required.
The memories made him groan softly under the steaming water. While the importance of his role wasn't lost on him, the long hours of formalities were sometimes unbearable. His mom felt the same way—Finn had witnessed her beg, in dramatic whispers, for the Grob Gob Glob Grod themselves to intervene and end a particularly dull meeting. On rare occasions, she'd concoct an excuse to escape and spend the rest of the day relaxing. Finn cherished the times she included him in these impromptu breaks; they reminded him that beneath her regal responsibilities, she was just as human as he was—or, at least, as close to human as a being like her could be.
After finishing his shower, Finn donned his royal attire. The soft yet elaborate fabrics clung comfortably to his frame, and the golden accents sparkled in the sunlight streaming through the chamber windows. The gummy drop sisters, ever loyal, bustled around to ensure every detail of his outfit was perfect.
"Thanks, you two," Finn said with a warm smile, giving them a small wave as they giggled and bowed, their sugary forms practically bouncing with excitement.
Finn chuckled and shook his head. The candy people could be simpleminded, but their endless enthusiasm and loyalty always warmed his heart. Still, he couldn't help but think about their view of his mom and, by extension, himself. The Candy Kingdom adored Princess Bubblegum as a perfect, infallible ruler, placing her on a pedestal so high it almost felt suffocating.
Yet, Finn knew better. He had seen her flaws, her exhaustion, and even her occasional silliness. And it was those imperfections that made him admire her all the more. To him, she wasn't just the ruler of the Candy Kingdom—she was his mom.
Adjusting his jacket, Finn walked toward the large window overlooking the kingdom. The view was breathtaking: rolling hills of peppermint grass, chocolate rivers weaving through candy-cane forests, and gumdrop houses glinting in the sunlight.
As he gazed at the distant horizon, his mind wandered. He thought about the gift he wanted to ask for at the end of the day—a request that would likely make his mom flip. She'd probably freak out, and Finn couldn't blame her. But he planned to wait until they were alone, away from prying eyes and eager ears. Public scandals weren't his style, nor hers.
Still, he held onto a sliver of hope. Maybe, just maybe, she'd listen. She always listened, even if she didn't agree. And this time, he needed her to understand, even if it meant pushing her comfort zone.
With a deep breath, Finn turned away from the window and headed for the Great Halls. The day's festivities were about to begin, and as much as he dreaded the pomp and circumstance, he couldn't deny a flicker of excitement.
The Great Hall of the Candy Castle was a masterpiece of sugary architecture. Its towering ceiling gave it an air of grandeur, while the sugarcane pillars, intricately spiraled and polished to a gleam, stood proudly as the backbone of the room. A long, lush carpet—crafted from woven candy floss—stretched from the grand double doors to the royal dais at the far end, inviting all who entered to bask in the sweet elegance of the space. Shuttered windows lined the walls, their frames frosted and sparkling, allowing beams of golden light to filter through.
Finn approached the massive front doors, still tugging slightly at his royal jacket. He wasn't used to this formal attire, but it felt important for the occasion. As his hand brushed the door handle, a loud voice from behind shouted his name.
"FINNEGAN!"
The boy let out a startled, high-pitched scream, spinning around in panic. Before he could fully register what was happening, Princess Bubblegum had thrown her arms around him from behind, squeezing him in an affectionate hug.
"Happy birthday, my baby!" she said, her laughter ringing with delight.
"Mom!" Finn pouted, though he couldn't help but return the hug. "Seriously, can everyone stop trying to scare me on my birthday? First Peppermint Butler, and now you!"
"Oh, don't worry about it," Bubblegum teased, ruffling his hair. Even as the slight messed blonde hair, she then looked a bit wary and decided to use a comber up which made her boy pouts at her from messing changing his hair. "I wanted to be first one to hug you. Besides, how else am I supposed to get a genuine reaction out of you?"
"Fine, fine. Thanks, Mom."Finn sighed, his pout deepening even as his lips twitched upward into a reluctant smile.
As she stepped back, Bubblegum gestured toward the Great Hall, her eyes twinkling mischievously. Finn took a moment to glance around, noticing something odd—the hall was almost empty.
"Uh, where is everyone?" he asked, looking over his shoulder at her.
Princess Bubblegum smirked, a knowing gleam in her eyes. "Oh, don't worry about that, they should be…" she said, raising her hands and clapping a few times. "Right here…"
The sound echoed through the vast chamber, and before Finn could question her further, the Great Hall came to life. The shuttered windows flew open with a blast of light, revealing rows of candy citizens grinning and waving as they began pouring into the hall. At the same time, the massive double doors behind him burst open, letting in even more candy people.
"HAPPY BIRTHDAY, PRINCE FINNEGAN!" they shouted in unison, their voices harmonizing in a joyous cheer that filled the room.
Finn froze, his wide eyes darting between the flood of candy citizens spilling into the hall, the banners unfurling from the ceiling, and the confetti cannons firing bursts of rainbow sprinkles into the air. It was overwhelming—but also heartwarming.
"Whoa…" he whispered, his mouth hanging open in awe.
Princess Bubblegum nudged his shoulder playfully. "Told you I had something special planned."
Finn shook his head, a grin breaking across his face. "Okay, Mom, you got me. This is awesome."
The candy citizens continued to cheer and wave, their excitement infectious. As Finn stepped forward, a few gummy bears and marshmallow puffs rushed up to hand him small, intricately wrapped candy gifts. Others started singing a lively candy-themed birthday song, accompanied by a candy cane quartet playing from one corner of the hall.
"Thank you for coming, Lady Rainicorn," Finn said warmly, smiling as he embraced the elegant hybrid of a unicorn and a rainbow. The creature, with her flowing blonde mane shimmering like spun sunlight, returned the hug with a serene smile, her presence as comforting as it had been throughout his life.
("It's my pleasure, Finn,") Lady Rainicorn replied in Korean, her voice melodic as she looked fondly at the boy who had just celebrated another year. ("I couldn't let the boy I babysat for so many years think I wouldn't make an appearance on his special day.")
Finn chuckled, the memories of their time together warming him. As his mom's best friend and royal steed, Lady Rainicorn had been more than just a trusted ally—she had been like family. Finn often called her "aunt" or even "godmother," titles she bore with pride. Whenever Princess Bubblegum's duties took her across Ooo for diplomatic or political trips, Lady Rainicorn had been the one to watch over Finn.
"Those were good times," Finn said, his grin widening.
("Oh, and let's not forget that incident when you were four years old,") Lady Rainicorn teased, her eyes glinting with mischief.
Finn's cheeks flushed as he groaned. "Please, don't remind me…" He couldn't help but recall the time he'd fallen asleep in Lady Rainicorn's mane, only to become so tangled that the entire kingdom had erupted into chaos. His mom had been frantic, organizing a search party for him. Since then, Lady Rainicorn made it a point to meticulously brush her mane before attending any events.
Lady Rainicorn giggled softly, the sound like tinkling chimes, as footsteps approached. She turned to wave at a familiar figure—a yellow dog bounding toward them with a box in his arms.
"Step aside, step aside! Gift for the Prince of Awesomeness coming through!" Jake called out, grinning widely.
"Jake!" Finn exclaimed, his excitement bubbling over.
"Happy birthday, Finn," Jake said, his tail wagging. "Jermaine and I spent a lot of time picking this out, but he's sick today, so he asked me to wish you an awesome day for him too."
"Thanks, man!" Finn said, eagerly reaching for the box. "Let's see what this is all about."
As he pulled off the lid, Finn's eyes lit up like fireworks. "No way! A sword?!"
He lifted the golden blade reverently. Its hilt was wrapped in weathered black leather, and a gleaming red gemstone sat proudly in its pommel.
"Her name's Scarlet," Jake explained, puffing out his chest. "Jermaine and I found her in a treasure cave about five hours from home. It was an epic journey."
"Epic doesn't even begin to describe it!" Finn said, marveling at the weapon.
"And that's not all," Jake added with a wink.
Finn delved back into the box, pulling out a white hat shaped like a bear's head and a finely crafted wooden flute. He wasted no time donning the hat, adjusting it until it fit snugly on his head. "How do I look?"
"Mathematical!" Jake declared, giving a magical thumbs-up.
("It suits you perfectly,") Lady Rainicorn agreed, her soft smile growing as she watched Finn beam with joy. She nudged Jake playfully. ("You've outdone yourself this time.")
"Thanks, you guys," Finn said, giving Jake a bear hug. "These are seriously the coolest gifts ever!"
As he tested the flute, playing a few playful notes, Finn's mind wandered to the adventures Jake had mentioned. "Wait, how did you guys get this stuff anyway?"
"Oh, you know," Jake said casually, scratching the back of his neck. "There was this polar bear guarding the cave. Jermaine and I had to, uh, convince him to hand over the loot."
"Convince?" Finn's eyes sparkled with intrigue.
"Well… we may have used our dad's sword and, uh, things got a little bloody," Jake admitted with a sheepish grin.
Lady Rainicorn cleared her throat pointedly, her disapproving gaze silencing Jake's gory storytelling. "That's a tale for another time," Jake said quickly, chuckling nervously.
Finn laughed. "You guys are the best," he said, clapping Jake on the back.
The trio shared a warm moment, their bond as strong as ever. As Finn managed to take out his hat and place together with his other gifts, he prepared to rejoin the festivities, he gave Jake and Lady Rainicorn space to enjoy the party. His eyes scanned the room, landing on the ever-diligent Peppermint Butler, who stood off to the side, quietly ensuring everything was running smoothly.
Finn approached the ever-composed Peppermint Butler, who stood at the edge of the festivities, quietly observing as Princess Bubblegum mingled with her loyal subjects. His content smile betrayed a sense of satisfaction at the joyful atmosphere.
"Hey, Peps. You're being awfully quiet over here," Finn said, tilting his head. "Why not join the fun? It's my birthday, after all."
Peppermint Butler let out a soft chuckle, his posture remaining formal. "I appreciate the offer, Master Finnegan, but rest assured, I'm enjoying myself just fine. Seeing you and your mother happy brings me all the joy I need."
As he spoke, the butler reached into his pocket and produced a small velvet pouch. With deliberate care, he removed a shining silver ring, its surface etched with intricate, glowing runes. "I hope you like this gift I have for you. It's a worm repellent; those disgusting hypnotic creatures are always annoying to deal with. And I think this ring will be good to avoid them controlling your mind."
"Woahhh, did you get that from the Wizard City?" Finn asked as he could see another magical right that glows light, while the butler just chuckled.
"Well, it was from there, but I cannot step inside of that place anymore." Peppermint butler said as he always finds ways to find magical ingredients or a way to illegally have those magical items from contacts.
"I still think it would have been awesome if you taught me a few magic spells." Finn said as he could see the butler once again laughing and patting the leg of the prince nearby him.
"Oh prince Finn, I cannot teach you the secrets of the path of the Dark Magic; as much as I would have loved to have an apprentice to help me on my spells, you are the lieage of Princess Bubblegum, and I would never betray her trust into making her loved son into going in the dark magic path." Peppermint butler said as he was already used to explaining to the boy why he couldn't teach the prince the dark magic; first and foremost, his mom would flip, and Peppermint butler would rather die than be the cause of Princess Bubblegum mad at him. He always had been and will always be loyal to the princess, as the same way he was happy to see the prince happy to cover up whenever the butler would be doing dark magic, since he also trusted the dark wizard of the Candy Kingdom. "But tell you what. I have a few contacts, and I may know a rumor or two about someone willing to teach magic—not dark magic, but the basics, which would allow you to go to Wizard City."
"Really? Mathematical!" Without hesitation, he threw his arms around the butler in a sudden hug, nearly knocking the small figure off balance. "Thanks, Peebs! You're the best!"
"Yes, I heard that most of the time, your highness." The butler happily grunted as he was released to the floor, while he adjusted his bowtie with a polite cough. He directed the boy in the direction of somewhere of the Great Halls. "Now, Your Highness, I believe there is someone else who would very much like to spend time with you."
Peppermint Butler gestured toward the center of the gathering, where Princess Bubblegum stood, engaged in lively conversation with the partygoers. Finn followed the butler's gaze and immediately knew what he had to do.
"Thanks for the heads-up, Peebs. Enjoy the party!" Finn said with a bright grin before heading off toward his mother, his excitement evident in his springy steps.
The butler watched him go, a rare, genuine smile gracing his face. As he returned to his quiet vigil, he reflected on how far the boy had come. Despite his initial doubts, Peppermint Butler now felt a deep fondness for the young prince—a sense of warmth he seldom allowed himself. As he was happy to see the Princess finally reaching the happiness once again.
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.
Princess Bonnibel Bubblegum was the picture of grace as she mingled with her subjects, her bright smile concealing the exhaustion that tugged at her every move. She cursed herself silently for nearly forgetting her son's birthday amid the whirlwind of her scientific experiments. After spending an entire night tirelessly organizing every detail—food, decorations, and a meticulously curated guest list—she had ensured that everything went off without a hitch. Yet, beneath her composed exterior, she desperately longed for the comfort of her bed.
"Mom, are you okay?"
The familiar voice cut through the haze of her fatigue, and she turned to see Finn standing nearby, his knowing gaze fixed on her.
"Oh, hey, Finn," she said, forcing a little more brightness into her tone. "I hope you're enjoying the party."
Finn raised an eyebrow. "Mom... how much sleep did you get last night?"
The question caught her off guard. Despite the lively party continuing in the background, Finn gently took her hand and led her away from the crowd with surprising ease, their departure as natural as if they were simply stepping aside for a moment.
"I'm fine, Finn," she began, though her voice betrayed her weariness. "I can hold out a few more hours. This day is important for you—"
"Mom," Finn interrupted with a soft smile, "you're patting your hand like you're holding something, but there's nothing there. Also, you're talking super slowly again."
Bubblegum blinked, suddenly conscious of how sluggish her words sounded. Before she could protest further, Finn had already guided her into one of the castle's secret passages, a route she recognized as leading directly to her royal chambers.
"I don't need rest," she insisted weakly. "I can make it through the night. I yawn—"
"Sure, Mom, you keep saying that," Finn said, his tone patient yet firm. By the time they reached her chambers, he had already fetched her favorite set of pajamas—a simple shirt from a band that he never heard before and soft pants she kept for nights when she desperately needed comfort.
Despite her protests, Finn helped her change into the cozy outfit. His care was methodical yet gentle, his actions speaking louder than any argument he could make. As he eased her into bed, as also a way to make her ready to sleep, he knew exactly what would set her up for sleep…
"Yeah yeah mom… however you're already in a dream inside of a dream inside of a dream… where 22 is infinite over Algebra in the Thirteen factor." Finn said as slowly the princess blinked as slowly her eyes were closing.
She murmured incoherent equations, her mind still clinging to fragments of the experiments she'd left unfinished.
"The value of algebra is…" she muttered as her eyelids grew heavier, her words trailing off into soft, rhythmic snores.
Finn chuckled, shaking his head fondly. "Works every time," he said quietly. He leaned down to kiss her forehead, brushing her hair aside. "At least I didn't risk to tell her my request of a gift today, I will think to tell her tomorrow when there isn't anyone around the castle. Sleep well, Mom."
He stepped back, watching for a moment as the tension melted from her face, replaced by the peaceful stillness of sleep. With a final glance, Finn turned and exited the royal chambers, leaving his mother to the rest she so desperately needed.
As he returned to the party, Finn smiled to himself, knowing full well that when she woke up, she'd be in a chaotic rush to make up for lost time.
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Hours passed as daylight gave way to the shadows of the afternoon and eventually the calm of evening. In the royal chambers, Princess Bubblegum, who had fallen into an unexpectedly deep sleep, suddenly woke with a jolt of panic.
"HOW DID I FALL ASLEEP? OH MY GLOB, THE PARTY! I SHOULDN'T HAVE LEFT THE PARTY!"
She leaped from her bed in a frenzy, her pink hair in disarray as she frantically grabbed her usual dress. Hurriedly pulling it on, she dashed toward the door, only to discover that it wouldn't budge.
"What the… FINNEGAN GUMMY BUBBLEGUM, YOU HAVE TEN SECONDS TO EXPLAIN WHAT YOU DID!" she bellowed, her voice echoing through the room.
"Sorry, Princess!" came a familiar voice from the other side of the door. It was none other than Cinnamon Bun. "But Prince Finn told me to guard the door with a banana guard fortress. He said I'd get a giant slice of cake if I didn't let you out."
"HI PRINCESS! WE'RE HELPING!" the banana guards chimed in unison, their cheerful voices filtering through the door.
Bubblegum's eye twitched furiously as she clenched her fists. "AS PRINCESS OF THE CANDY KINGDOM, I DEMAND YOU ALL MOVE THIS INSTANT!"
She pounded the door with enough force to rattle it, but the banana guards remained firmly in place, cheerfully oblivious to her fury. Cinnamon Bun, meanwhile, started whistling nonchalantly.
"UGHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" she groaned, her frustration boiling over.
"You know your mom is going to kill you when she gets out of the royal chambers, right?" Peppermint Butler said with a smirk, watching Finn calmly carry a tray loaded with cake slices.
"Probably," Finn replied, winking at the loyal butler. "But hey, we needed to make sure the party ended smoothly. Besides, she really needed the sleep."
He handed a particularly large slice to Cinnamon Bun, who was seated with his back against the door, humming to himself.
"Oh, hey, guys, it's time," Finn announced to the remaining partygoers. "The party's officially over. Thanks for the help, everyone."
"How long has she been awake?" he asked one of the banana guards, who stood at attention despite leaning slightly against his comrades.
"Five minutes," the guard reported, his voice filled with the same cheer as always.
A loud thud reverberated from the door, followed by a series of heavy bangs as Bubblegum seemingly tried to ram something against it.
"She sounds angry," another guard added, a note of mild concern in his voice.
Finn grinned as he grabbed one last slice of cake for himself. "Yeah, that's about right. Don't worry, I'll deal with it. Eventually."
"Yeah, I know. Thanks, guys. You deserve this." Finn smiled as he handed out slices of cake to the loyal subjects.
"Thanks, Your Highness! Thanks, Prince Finnegan! Woohoo, cake!" the banana guards and Cinnamon Bun cheered, happily taking their rewards. One by one, they dispersed, leaving the hallway clear.
Finn held up the key, twirling it briefly before unlocking the door.
Peppermint Butler took a cautious step back just as the door flew open.
"FINNEGAN!"
Before Finn could react, Princess Bubblegum tackled him with surprising force, pinning him to the floor. Her face was a mix of fury and disbelief.
"No… you didn't," she hissed, her eyes narrowing.
"It's over, Mom," Finn said with a grin, entirely unfazed by her glare. "The birthday party is done. Everyone's heading home, and you got some much-needed rest."
Bubblegum's furious expression didn't soften. Instead, her gaze intensified. "You know I could ground you for this, right?"
Finn simply shrugged, still smiling. "Sure. But you only woke up five minutes ago. There wasn't much you could've done to stop me."
Her eyes twitched, torn between annoyance and reluctant admiration. He had her there. Bubblegum knew he was right—not that she'd admit it out loud.
"Let me guess," Finn continued, his tone more concerned now. "Three days without sleep in the lab?"
The princess's lips tightened. "Don't interrogate me, little boy. I'm your mother," she snapped, though she could see that knowing look in his eyes. The tilt of his head—ugh, she hated that look.
With a deep sigh, she relented. "Four days."
"Ha! Knew it!" Finn said, his grin widening. "Mom, you've gotta slow down sometimes. Science isn't going anywhere—it's literally timeless. You've got Scient the rat, like, forever. You could've waited a bit."
Bubblegum straightened, brushing dust off her dress, as the two began walking back toward the castle. Peppermint Butler trailed silently behind, ever the watchful observer.
"I know I should've rested, but the party…" she murmured, glancing at her son.
"Was great," Finn said, his tone earnest. "But the best part of my birthday? Getting to spend time with you. I just wanted one night where you weren't stuck in the lab, overworking yourself."
Bubblegum's stern expression softened as she looked at her boy. Despite her frustration, she couldn't help but feel touched.
"I suppose the kingdom survived without me micromanaging for once," she admitted grudgingly.
"And you got some sleep," Finn said with a wink. "That's a win-win."
Bubblegum rolled her eyes but smiled faintly. "You're impossible, Finnegan."
"Just as the way you raised me." Finn smiled, as he could see that one more year had passed, and while his mom could sometimes be controlling, he knew that she had the best of intentions inside of her heart, and while many times he tried to convince herself to slow down, she gets worried more often to things that he never once thought before.
Which was a good thing that both mother and son could appreciate a good time drinking tea, and enjoying the birthday cake on the night on the balcony of the castle. Where both mother and son enjoyed the view of the night approaching their kingdom, knowing that sometimes the view from the castle was the best view that Finn ever could appreciate around.
A good time, when the silence and rest was good enough for Princess Bubblegum, sometimes she overworked herself because she feared the sound of silence and the solitude, but having the human by her side, and enjoying the sound of the silence and the view itself. Princess Bubblegum felt the silence and the monotonous time to stop more comfortable, as a way for her to enjoy a bit of doing nothing.
Which Finn knew the next day would be one of those days… but at least he could appreciate his time with his mom while he could.
"Mother…"
The single word hung in the air like a thunderclap.
The bustling halls of the Royal Candy Castle froze in place. Guards, maids, and assorted candy citizens halted mid-task, their gazes snapping toward Princess Bubblegum.
The princess herself stopped dead, a groan escaping her lips as she buried her face in her hands. The reason for her reaction was as clear as the day outside the castle's candy-colored windows.
Peppermint Butler, standing dutifully nearby, immediately understood. The word "Mother" carried layers of meaning when it came to the young prince.
When Finn said Mom, it was his standard form of address, whether casual, formal, or when expressing affection.
When he said Mommy, it meant he needed comfort, typically because something had frightened or overwhelmed him.
But when he said Mother, everyone—especially the princess—knew trouble was brewing. It was Finn's formal, deliberate tone, signaling that he wanted something. And not just anything. It meant a request so grand it would inevitably bring a royal headache.
"Yes, son?" Princess Bubblegum asked, her voice a mix of resignation and apprehension. Centuries of dealing with her subjects as a decade of learning on how parenting her uniquely precocious child had taught her that whatever was about to come out of his mouth would be, at best, unconventional.
"I am 12 years old, as you can see…" Finn began, his tone calm and measured as though he were laying out an indisputable argument.
Bubblegum raised a skeptical eyebrow, already bracing herself.
"And as we both know," Finn continued, "time is not on my side. I will live for decades—maybe a century if I'm lucky—but not forever. Unlike you, Mom, I don't have the luxury of endless years."
Bubblegum sighed deeply, mumbling under her breath, "I'm still working on that…"
Finn pressed on. "I'm not going to beat around the bush. I want to be an adventurer."
"No."
The response was instant, curt, and absolute.
"Mom, this isn't negotiable." Finn crossed his arms, his resolve as firm as candy rock. "Ooo is without heroes. Jake and Jermaine are the last real adventurers left, but the dog years will catch up to them eventually. And Billy? He vanished years ago after fighting the Lich. Who else is going to protect this land?"
Bubblegum's eyes narrowed as she scanned the room. The candy citizens, sensing the tension, began tiptoeing out of earshot. Even the ever-loyal Peppermint Butler subtly edged back a step, knowing this discussion was about to heat up.
"You're twelve," Bubblegum stated firmly, meeting her son's determined gaze. "You're too young to take on the dangers of adventuring, especially in a world as unpredictable as Ooo. There's a reason I created the Banana Guards—to keep order and protect the kingdom."
"And they're great at standing still and singing in unison, I beat them down when I was seven years old, and it was my first time using a cardboard sword." Finn quipped, rolling his eyes. "But if something like the Lich returns, are you really going to send them into battle? Mom, you and I both know they're not equipped for that."
"I don't need to justify myself to you, Finnegan." Bubblegum's lips thinned, her composure slipping just slightly. "I said no."
"I'm not doing this to defy you, Mom." Finn stood his ground. "I'm doing this because it's the right thing to do. Ooo needs heroes, and I can be one. I've been training with Jake. I'm ready—"
"You think swinging a sword around makes you ready for the horrors outside these walls?" Bubblegum snapped, her voice rising. "You've never faced a real monster, Finn. You've never seen what the darkness out there can do."
"And I won't, because you keep me locked up like a porcelain doll!" Finn shot back, his frustration bubbling to the surface. "I'm not asking you to let me go because it's easy—I'm asking because it's necessary. You always taught me to care about this world, to use my head and my heart. Well, that's what both of them are telling me to do!"
The room fell silent as mother and son locked eyes, their stubbornness a mirror of each other.
Peppermint Butler stood quietly off to the side, observing the tension with a knowing expression. This wasn't just an argument—it was a defining moment. Finn wasn't just Princess Bubblegum's son; he was a boy who had spent years feeling powerless in the face of threats to the kingdom and his family.
He remembered vividly the times his mother had been kidnapped by the Ice King. Those endless hours spent angrily pacing the castle halls, unable to do anything but wait for Jake and Jermaine to bring her back. He had felt so helpless, so useless. He wasn't strong enough to stop the Ice King himself, and the Banana Guards were even less capable.
But not this time.
Finn clenched his fists at the memory. This time, he wanted to take action. He wanted to help his mom—to save her from maniacs who would try to kidnap her or threaten their home. He wasn't a helpless child anymore, and he refused to let himself feel that way again.
Princess Bubblegum, despite her firm stance, could see the fire in her son's eyes. She recognized that determination, that need to act. It was the same drive she'd felt long ago when she first ventured across Ooo on her own, seeking to carve out her purpose in a chaotic world.
But seeing that same fire in Finn filled her with dread. She didn't want her boy venturing into danger, far from her protection. She didn't want to see him face the same perils she had or endure the loneliness of such a journey.
Bubblegum finally exhaled, her shoulders slumping slightly as she let the tension release—at least for now. "This isn't over," she said, her voice softer but still carrying the weight of authority. "We'll discuss this later."
"Fine…" Finn muttered, turning on his heel and heading toward the chamber doors. As he walked away, he allowed himself a small sigh of relief. At least he hadn't blurted this out during his birthday party. That would have been a disaster, with his mom likely freaking out in front of the entire kingdom. To his surprise, this confrontation had gone better than he expected.
Behind him, Princess Bubblegum let out a frustrated groan, rubbing her temples. Peppermint Butler, ever the observer, chose to remain silent for the moment.
"Ughhhhhh," Bubblegum muttered. "I knew telling him stories about Billy the hero would come back to bite me. But my emotional side just had to see him wearing that adorable little knight costume I made for him. It was too cute to resist!" She slumped back in her seat, throwing a hand dramatically over her face. "And now, of course, it's all coming back to haunt me. It always does."
Peppermint Butler chuckled softly, stepping forward to offer his princess a reassuring pat on the arm. "You did what any mother would do, Your Highness. The consequences were… inevitable."
Bubblegum groaned again. "Great. I've raised a hero in the making. Next thing I know, he'll be running off to fight a dragon or something. What could be worse than that?"
As if summoned by the cruel irony of fate, the window to her royal chamber burst open, and in flew the Ice King, riding a swirling gust of icy wind.
"Surprise, Bubblegum!" the Ice King cackled, his wiry beard twitching with excitement. "I've come to kidnap you! Again!"
Princess Bubblegum froze, her eyes wide with disbelief. For a moment, she thought this had to be some stress-induced hallucination. "You've got to be kidding me…"
"Ha! Nope! Totally serious!" Ice King said, gleefully conjuring an ice cage around her with a dramatic wave of his hands. "I've been working on this new poem to recite to you in my ice cave, and you're gonna love it! It's got rhymes and… uh… other poem-y stuff!"
"No! No, no, no!" Bubblegum cried, gripping the frozen bars of the cage. "You can't do this right now! Do you realize what you're doing? You're proving my son's point, you absolute lunatic!"
Ice King paused, hovering mid-air. "Wait, what? What point? Is it a good point? Because I love making points! Like—POW! Ice points!" He fired a small icicle from his hand, which hit the floor harmlessly.
Bubblegum groaned, sinking to her knees. "You're literally proving him right! He wants to become a hero because people like you keep kidnapping me! Do you even hear yourself right now?"
"Hmm…" Ice King tapped his chin thoughtfully. "Interesting point! But I already have this whole evening planned out, and my schedule is packed with princess-napping, poetry-reading, and, uh… whatever else I feel like doing!" He clapped his hands, lifting the cage with his magic. "Let's go, Bubblegum! The Ice Kingdom awaits!"
"No! Don't you dare!" she shouted, struggling against the icy confines. "Ice King, I swear, if you don't put me down—"
But her protests fell on deaf ears as Ice King floated out the window with her in tow, humming a cheerful yet completely off-key tune.
Peppermint Butler watched stoically from the chamber below, sighing as the familiar sight of his princess being carried off played out once again. "Here we go," he muttered to himself, already knowing the routine.
He strolled to the nearby telephone, dialing a well-practiced number. Patiently waiting, he tapped his foot until a muffled voice came through on the other end.
"Mister Jake? Ice King kidnapped Princess Bubblegum a few minutes ago… Yes, unfortunately, again," he said, his tone flat as though this were just another Tuesday. After ending the call, he tidied his bowtie, knowing the magical dog hero would be there soon enough.
One thing Peppermint Butler knew for sure: the situation was about to escalate.
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.
"SHE WAS WHAT?!" Finn shouted, his voice reverberating through the castle halls as Peppermint Butler calmly recounted the incident to the prince and Jake, who had arrived in his usual stretchy fashion.
"Master Finnegan—"
"Don't even start, Pepp! I knew it. I knew it! It's every single time! Why does he always go after my mom?!" Finn ranted, pacing back and forth furiously. "She tells him every time that she has a son! Does he forget? Or does he just not care? Every single time, man! He doesn't even listen!"
Jake blinked, ears flicking up at Finn's outburst. "Woah, buddy, I didn't know you had all that bottled up inside."
Peppermint Butler adjusted his bowtie nervously. "Well… Master Finnegan did have an argument with her earlier this morning. And, it seems, the irony of this situation has not been kind to the princess."
Finn clenched his fists, his face determined. "That's it! I'm done sitting around while this ice psycho kidnaps my mom. Not this time!"
Before Peppermint Butler could protest, Finn stormed off, leaving the butler to stare after him in stunned silence.
"Uh, Pepp? Shouldn't we, like, stop him or something?" Jake asked, scratching his head.
Peppermint Butler sighed, knowing what was coming next. "There's no stopping him now. And the princess… she's not going to be happy when she finds out."
From down the hall, Finn's voice echoed back, loud and clear: "PEPPERMINT BUTLER, PROTOCOL FUNNEL PINEAPPLE CAKE!"
Peppermint Butler froze, his usually composed demeanor cracking as he gulped. "Oh no. Not that. Anything but that."
"What's that about funnel cake?" Jake asked, raising an eyebrow.
The butler groaned, slapping a hand to his face. "It's a secret protocol, known only to me and the royal family. If the prince is serious about invoking it…" He trailed off, dread creeping into his voice.
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.
.
The chamber doors swung open dramatically. Finn stood in the doorway, clad in a sleeveless blue shirt, its royal design slightly tattered at the edges, and a pink backpack strapped securely to his back. A sword gleamed, strapped tightly to the bag. His golden hair was tucked under a white hat—a cherished birthday gift that added an unmistakable charm to his look.
Peppermint Butler could only gape as Finn strode forward, radiating determination.
Finnegan Gummy Bubblegum, Prince of the Candy Kingdom, was ready.
"I'm going to rescue my mom," Finn declared, his voice resolute.
Jake whistled low. "Dang, kid. You're really serious, huh?"
Peppermint Butler adjusted his bowtie, mumbling, "The princess is going to be furious when she finds out about this…"
But there was no stopping Finn now. The young prince of the Candy Kingdom was about to embark on his first adventure.
"Remember the protocol," Finn said firmly, glancing back at Peppermint Butler. "You'll stay in command until we return. If we don't come back in two days… declare war on the Ice Kingdom."
Peppermint Butler froze, his bowtie nearly spinning from the tension. Before he could react, Jake's eyes widened, and he immediately stepped in.
"Woah, woah, woah, Finn! Let's pump the brakes here," Jake said, waving his paws. "Ice King isn't that kind of supervillain. You don't need to declare war on him."
Finn blinked, confused. "He's not?"
"Nah," Jake replied with a shrug. "He's just a crazy old dude with a crown and a bad habit of being a royal pain. A few punches to the face and snatching his crown usually does the trick."
Finn hesitated, rubbing the back of his neck. "Sorry… this is all so new to me. And seeing my mom get kidnapped—it really messes with my head."
"Hey, don't sweat it, dude," Jake said, offering a reassuring grin. "I get it. Jermaine and I have had to deal with some pretty wild stuff, too. But trust me, you've got this. I'm glad to have you as backup, Prince."
Jake crouched, stretching himself out until his body transformed into a massive carriage-like shape. "Now hop on! If Jermaine wasn't sick today, he'd totally want in on this. But don't worry—I'll teach you the ropes on how to deal with that ice lunatic."
Finn's worried expression melted into a smile. "That would be awesome."
He climbed onto Jake's back, gripping his sword tightly. Before they took off, Finn looked over his shoulder at Peppermint Butler. "Forget the protocol for Funnel Pineapple Cake. Just take care of the Candy People while I'm gone. We'll be back soon!"
"Good luck, boys!" Peppermint Butler called after them as Jake and Finn disappeared into the distance.
Once they were gone, Peppermint Butler let out a long, relieved sigh, wiping an imaginary bead of sweat from his brow. The thought of a war was daunting enough, but he knew an even greater challenge awaited him: explaining all this to Princess Bubblegum.
He shuddered, muttering to himself, "She is not going to be happy about this."
As it was like Ooo was calling for her son to be the next hero of the world, but a mother would always be worried about her son, as the same way the son would always go after his mother to protect her from the dangers. A cycle, which the dark magic candy butler would never understand. The land of Ooo had always been Misterious. And will always be.