Author's note: Guys, I have to give some amazing and wonderful news... After a whole year unemployed, I finally managed to get a job, which mean now I'm back at Discord and while I may slow down my fanfic publishings, I'm more comfortable now to write since I'm graduated from school so I will have my time working and enjoying my time with my family but also writing over here.
Which now I can happily focus into writing without the pressure of time over me. And now, this chapter it had bothering me for a while since I didn't know how I should be writing it, but I'm glad this is over, and I can focus into the slight timeskip before returning to the official episodes of adventure time. Anyway, guys have fun reading this chapter.
Anwering Reviews:
toonfan97 . I'm happy you liked the chapters, well it took a while but here we are, I hope you like the chapter. Have fun.
Mr. E Guest. I'm glad you liked the chapter, and if you have some doubts, you can watch the canon episodes and go to their chronology, it helps out even if I have some adaptations which was a good way to describe how the episodes would go mostly, but I hope you enjoy this version I did with a few changes.
Just a wee guest . Well the pairs already had been decided before, and well some of your guesses aren't exactly right, since probably Marceline is surfing giant fishes or playing around Fire Kingdom, it took a while until Marceline returns to the Tree House, anyway I hope you enjoy the adaptations I did over the chapter.
Cody Black . I'm glad you liked the idea of this fanfic, and I'm happy you understood on why I decided to follow that path, the harem path is going to be very limitated, while it will be writen on my own rythm without rushing or making too long repercusions, Finn still has 12 years old. So it will take some time until he finds out about himself, and you are right, Finn isn't a womanizer, he had been taught by no other than Princess Bubblegum on how to be responsible and be a good kid, so that's part of his charm, so I hope you like this chapter. XD
CavaloRebaixado. Cavalo Rebaixado que saudades de você cara, eu realmente estava esperando ler mais dos seus reviews futurament, espero ver mais dos seus reviews, falou Cavalo.
coldblue2015 . I'm glad you liked the chapter, indeed there was many things happening which I'm slowly building up for the next chapters in the future. But yeah I hope you like this chapter. Your questions
1- It's possible in the future, but maybe Finn will try to build up his own weapons, he has a scientific side on him, but still he doesn't have much time, since he has half of the week of being a Prince, which Finn had to learn how to administrate his time.
2-Maybe? Who knows? Things happen across the episodes, and each day you learn something more, so possibly Jermaine would focus into learning how to be a better artist by himself, since he will be an adventurer/painter in the future? Maybe, who knows? XD
3-Well, Finn would be technically their godfather as the same way Lady Raincorn was his godmother, so taking care of the puppies as they would grow up by having his influence it would take a while. But still would be something they would learn with Finn.
4-Well Prince Finn wouldn't make a wish until he was sure. Which the funniest thing is... He would be there thinking while Jake just asked for a Sandwich
The best and wisest wish ever made
Which make the start of Jake and Prismo being good friends
The scene would pratically be like this:
Prismo: well all my wishes has some unexpected plot twistes.
Finn: AHA, I KNEW IT.
Jermaine: You knew every wish would end up badly somehow?
Finn:Yep because Jake always hates pickles and has a bunch on his sandwich.
Jake:Not this one dude. It tastes awesome.
Finn:really? Rat traps, but thanks for telling us.
Prismo: no problem, want a sandwich too?
Finn: sure
Wolfang21 . Well I hope you like this chapter, because it's going to be interesting somehow, anyway have fun.
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.
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Alright, everyone who get their reviews answered, behold the new chapter, and have fun guys. You all deserve the first chapter after I finally got a job. Have fun. XD
The sun bathed the Candy Kingdom in a warm golden glow, its rays spilling over the pink sugar trees and onto a distant field of impossibly soft, verdant grass. Here, dozens of cushion-sized marshmallows formed a bouncy, mountainous stage, their surfaces gently quivering with every movement. This was the stage for the Mallow Tea Ceremony, a cherished royal tradition that tested one's poise and adaptability in the face of delicious chaos.
And chaos it was.
"WHOOOOAAA!" Strudel Princess let out a gleeful scream as she bounced, clutching her teacup in both hands. The liquid inside swirled perilously, threatening to escape with each wild bounce. Her laughter echoed through the courtyard—equal parts exhilaration and panic.
Nearby, Jermaine sat cross-legged at the edge of one marshmallow, his concentration fixed on a precariously wobbling teacup. "No, no, no—ahh, darn it!" he cried as the cup tumbled from his grasp. It landed with a soft plop, triggering a cascade of ripples across the marshmallows. Jermaine winced as the unpredictable waves threw everyone into further disarray.
"AHA!" Jake exclaimed, crouched low as he bounced. He had resorted to stabilizing his teacup on his lap—a seemingly brilliant strategy—though the liquid still leapt into the air at every jolt.
"Careful, sis! You're gonna spill it all over yourself!" Breakfast Princess called out, her voice a mix of concern and amusement as she fought to steady herself. Beside her, Toast Princess struggled mightily with a delicate kettle, her brows knitted in concentration. Every wobble of the marshmallow beneath her made the task of pouring tea an impossible mission.
"I'm trying!" Toast Princess whimpered, her hands trembling as she tilted the kettle just so. The tea teetered on the edge, almost escaping—before, with a triumphant gasp, it landed safely in the teacup.
This ceremony wasn't just about enjoying tea—it was a testament to grace under pressure, the artistry of balance, and the sheer joy of embracing chaos.
At the heart of the turmoil sat Princess Bubblegum, the epitome of composure. She seemed immune to the commotion, her posture regal and unshaken as she sipped her tea with effortless precision. Not a single drop dared to spill. The contrast between her elegance and the others' struggles was very comical.
"Patience, my dears," Bubblegum advised with a knowing chuckle. "Mastering the Mallow Tea Ceremony takes years of practice. And yet—" she glanced at Finn with a fond smile, "—my son has outdone himself. These marshmallows are the bounciest we've ever had."
Finn grinned, his confidence undeniable. "More tea, please, Mom?"
Bubblegum nodded. Without breaking a sweat, she tilted her own kettle, sending a perfect stream of tea arcing gracefully through the air and into Finn's cup. Finn, for his part, executed a flawless mid-air backflip, landing effortlessly on the marshmallow just in time to catch the tea.
Not a single drop was wasted.
A collective "OHHHHHH!" erupted from the crowd of princesses, their voices harmonizing in awe. Jungle Princess, who had been cautiously bouncing to maintain her balance, paused mid-bounce to watch the seamless display of skill between Finn and Princess Bubblegum. Narrowing her eyes in curiosity, she tilted her head.
"Since when do you two do that?" she asked, blinking in disbelief.
Still mid-bounce, Finn laughed as he reached out to steady Strudel Princess, who was teetering dangerously. "Takes years of practice!" he said, grinning. "Mom and I do this every year, so I train with her for a whole week beforehand. Once my body got used to it, it just became second nature."
Bending his knees, Finn prepared for another leap. His grin widened. "And now," he announced with dramatic flair, "I'm the Bouncing Man!"
He launched himself high into the air, arms outstretched in an exaggerated pose, as Princess Bubblegum calmly tilted her teacup. With uncanny precision, she sent a perfect stream of tea arcing through the air to land in Finn's cup mid-flip. He landed smoothly, raising the cup in triumph before taking a satisfied sip.
The crowd gasped in amazement, their cheers echoing through the bouncy marshmallow mountain.
"Ohhhhhh!" Breakfast Princess, Strudel Princess, and Toast Princess exclaimed in unison, their eyes sparkling with admiration.
Jungle Princess shook her head, chuckling. "That is either the most impressive thing I've seen… or the weirdest."
Finn's grin only widened. "Why not both?"
Princess Bubblegum sipped her tea, her calm demeanor a striking contrast to the chaos around her. "Well, that's the tradition of the Mallow Tea Ceremony," she said warmly, her gaze shifting to Hot Dog Princess and Raggedy Princess, who were still struggling to adapt to the wobbling marshmallows.
"Now, girls," Bubblegum continued, "let's discuss the negotiations we've been planning for so long."
"WOAHHHH!" Raggedy Princess yelled as she nearly slid down the marshmallow mountain. Princess Bubblegum reacted instantly, reaching out and pulling her back with ease. Raggedy Princess nodded in gratitude, catching her breath. "Well," she said hesitantly, "what do you have in mind for the metal scraps from my kingdom?"
Bubblegum leaned in slightly, lowering her voice conspiratorially. "Shhh." She glanced around to ensure Finn wasn't listening, spotting him gleefully bouncing alongside Jungle, Breakfast, and her sisters. Satisfied, she turned back to Raggedy Princess.
"While Finnegan knows I've been using metal scraps for recycling projects, I've framed it as community service—a fitting punishment for his reckless decisions," Bubblegum explained, her tone matter-of-fact. "I want you to lead him to areas with the highest concentration of scraps. It'll teach him responsibility while also benefiting the kingdom's development."
Raggedy Princess hesitated, a flicker of concern crossing her face. "You want me to keep punishing your son? Isn't that... a bit harsh?"
Bubblegum shook her head with a soft laugh. "Not at all. He drove me crazy—twice—in a single day! This is as much about teaching him as it is about making use of his energy. Recycling is essential for the Kingdom's prosperity, and it sets a positive example. Besides," she added, taking a measured sip of tea, "I've already secured high-quality fabric and even candy textiles for your sewing projects. You're the best when it comes to creating, and Finn still treasures the backpack you made him. He can explore the world as a hero while helping you out in return."
Raggedy Princess nodded slowly, her initial guilt giving way to understanding. "Well, if you put it that way," she said with a small smile. The thought of her kingdom flourishing through this partnership lightened her heart. She imagined her junkyard transforming into a better, more organized version of the Raggedy Kingdom with the help of Finn and Jake doing community service, while she could help Finn's dream to become independent and going to explore his heroic dream with Jake and Jermaine. "Let's do it."
"And how are you holding up, PB?" Hot Dog Princess asked, her gaze drifting to Finn, who was playing with Jake and the younger princesses. She couldn't help but chuckle as she overheard snippets of gossip from her friends—and even her frenemy, Lumpy Space Princess. "I never thought I'd hear you say you wanted to strangle Ice King with your bare hands."
Princess Bubblegum sighed, her shoulders slumping as the weight of the day settled on her. "It's been rough, Hot Dog Princess. Like the universe decided to mock every plan I had for Finnegan. And then, as if the Cosmic Owl himself were playing a cruel joke, my son suddenly decides to become a hero because Billy disappeared. Glob knows I tried to steer him away from that path."
She paused, her expression darkening. "And just when I thought it couldn't get worse, guess who shows up?"
"Ice King," Hot Dog Princess and Raggedy Princess said in unison, their voices tinged with exasperation. Both knew all too well the monthly annoyance of being kidnapped by him.
"Exactly!" Bubblegum threw her hands up in frustration. "I mean, fine, kidnap me, Ice King. I don't take him seriously anymore. But to show up right after Finnegan and I had an argument? And then to prove my son's point about heroism? I've never been so angry in my life."
She took a deep breath, trying to compose herself. "Anyway, how's your kingdom? My offer for better protection still stands."
Hot Dog Princess smiled warmly. "I appreciate it, PB, but I'll have to decline. My hot dog knights may be… well, not the brightest, but they're my knights. I want to depend on them as my line of defense. Besides, I'm sure your son will be a great hero and help me when I need it most."
Bubblegum groaned, pinching the bridge of her nose. "Please, for the love of Grob Gob Glob Grod, don't flirt with my son. Lumpy Space Princess already made him uncomfortable with her complete lack of understanding of personal space. And Finn's still traumatized from what happened on his birthday four years ago."
Hot Dog Princess blushed, her embarrassment evident. "Okay, okay! I'm still sorry about that time I tried to kiss him on the cheek and he… well, vomited on the floor. But I'm grateful for the perfume you gave me—it's been a lifesaver for people with sensitive noses. I swear, it was just a friendly gesture. He was a cute kid, and I wanted to kiss him on the cheek. That's all."
Bubblegum rolled her eyes. "Hot Dog Princess, you're a good friend, but please don't act like LSP. I already have a headache from dealing with her parents after what she pulled last year. And now she knows I've taken precautions to keep her away from Finn."
Hot Dog Princess nodded, her expression turning serious. "I told you she wouldn't take it lightly after you snitched to her parents."
Bubblegum sighed, her frustration evident. "I had no choice. Sleeping outside his window for three days, trying to seduce him? It was beyond weird."
Hot Dog Princess shook her head, her tone dry. "Weird doesn't even begin to cover it."
"And she's 52—she was supposed to be an adult, not act like a rebellious teenager!" Princess Bubblegum groaned, pinching the bridge of her nose. The memory of her conversation with Lumpy Space Queen and King only worsened her headache. "But no, apparently, that's considered her 'teenage years' in the Lumpy Space Kingdom."
Hot Dog Princess rolled her eyes. "Okay, I get it. You don't want me around your son because I'm a dog."
Bubblegum nearly choked on her tea, sputtering as Hot Dog Princess's words caught her off guard. "What?!"
"I'm just saying," Hot Dog Princess continued, crossing her arms. "I know I can be a little intrusive, like LSP, but I'm not that bad. So is it because we're not... you know, compatible?"
Raggedy Princess gasped, her tone horrified. "Hot Dog Princess! How could you even say that?" She turned to Bubblegum, equally alarmed. "PB, please tell me it isn't that!"
Princess Bubblegum remained silent, her lips pressed into a thin line. Her silence only made the other two princesses more anxious. With a resigned sigh, she glanced around to ensure no one else was listening, then leaned in closer.
"It's... more complicated than that," she began, her voice low. "And before either of you jumps to any conclusions, let me explain something about human biology."
The other princesses exchanged puzzled glances, but stayed quiet, waiting for her to continue.
"I've spent years researching humans," Bubblegum explained, her tone tinged with weariness. "Trying to understand their biology, their cultural norms, and their... mating rituals, all so I could guide Finnegan. And let me tell you—it's bizarre. There are so many taboos, preferences, and weird nuances... It's like opening a can of worms I never wanted to touch. But as his mother, I had to be prepared to give him... the talk."
Hot Dog Princess tilted her head, her curiosity piqued. "So...?"
Bubblegum sighed deeply, knowing she was about to venture into uncomfortable territory. "So," she said, steeling herself, "let me tell you about the birds and the bees—the human version."
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Jake stretched his elastic arm with practiced ease, expertly pouring tea back into his cup without spilling a drop. "Gotta say, Finn, this is pretty fun—jumping around like this. Even if I have to stretch myself to keep the tea from flying everywhere." He glanced at his still-steaming cup, a grin tugging at his lips. "Especially while it's still hot."
"Well, the risk of getting burned just makes it more radical," Finn replied, his grin widening as he reveled in the bouncing chaos. He glanced over at Jermaine, who was still struggling to take a sip without drenching himself. "Here's a tip: use the momentum of the bounce. When you're going up, take a quick sip before gravity drags you and the tea back down. Like this." Finn demonstrated with precision, lifting his cup mid-bounce and taking a clean sip.
"WHOA!" A startled cry rang out, cutting through the lively chatter. Finn's attention snapped to the source: Breakfast Princess had lost control of her bounces, her arms flailing wildly as she tumbled toward the grass below.
"SIS!" Toast Princess shouted, her voice thick with panic.
Breakfast Princess squeezed her eyes shut, bracing for the inevitable impact—only to feel herself caught by something warm and steady. Slowly, she dared to open her eyes and found herself cradled securely in Finn's arms, held bridal-style.
"Hey, Breakfast Princess. Are you okay?" Finn asked, his voice gentle and filled with genuine concern as he met her wide-eyed stare.
"Eh... eh... errr…" Breakfast Princess stammered, her cheeks flushing a deep crimson. Her mind blanked as she realized the situation—his kind eyes locked on hers, his grip steady and reassuring.
"Oh, glob. Maybe all the bouncing messed with your head," Finn said, his tone light as he carefully lowered her to the ground. "Take a short break here, princess. Rest for a bit, and you'll be ready to go again." He offered her a warm, reassuring smile before bounding back to the marshmallows with effortless ease.
Breakfast Princess remained quiet, her face still flushed as she watched him leave. Her heart skipped a beat, and for the first time, she found herself understanding—just a little—why so many girls seemed drawn to him. Finn Gummy Bubblegum wasn't just kind and adventurous; he had a charm entirely his own. No wonder Princess Bubblegum was so protective of him.
Nearby, Jungle Princess smirked as she set her cup down with deliberate precision. "Mastered it already? I was just getting started," she teased, planting her hands on her hips. With a confident leap, she launched into a controlled backflip, landing seamlessly on the marshmallow with barely a wobble.
"Whoa! Okay, that's awesome," Finn said, his eyes wide with admiration. "You've definitely got this bouncing thing down."
Breakfast Princess, who had been watching from the sidelines, paused mid-bounce. Her arms folded tightly across her chest as she observed the interaction, her cheeks puffing slightly in irritation. After a moment, she called out, "Oh, please. It's not that hard! Watch this."
Before Finn could reply, Breakfast Princess launched herself upward in a surprisingly graceful jump. However, in her eagerness to match Jungle Princess's skill, she miscalculated the landing. Her feet slipped against the marshmallow's bouncy surface, sending her tumbling backward.
"Ahhh!" she squealed, her voice rising in panic as the world spun around her.
"Gotcha!" Finn darted forward without hesitation, catching her just before she slid off the marshmallow and onto the grass below. His steady hands helped her regain her balance as he grinned. "You okay, Breakfast Princess?"
For a moment, Breakfast Princess simply stared at him, her cheeks burning bright red. "Uh… yeah, thanks," she mumbled, brushing imaginary dust off her dress in an attempt to regain her composure. She glanced sideways, catching Jungle Princess watching with an amused sparkle in her eye.
"Maybe take it slow, BP," Jungle Princess remarked, her tone light but tinged with playful challenge. "Bouncing's all about rhythm, not rushing."
Breakfast Princess shot her a sharp look, her cheeks faintly pink with lingering embarrassment. "I had it under control," she retorted, folding her arms and turning away from Jungle Princess with a dramatic huff.
"Totally looked like it," Jake chimed in with a snicker, effortlessly stretching his arm to pluck Finn's teacup from mid-air before it could tip over.
Jungle Princess shook her head, her smirk softening into something warmer as she turned her attention to Finn. "You've got a knack for saving people mid-air, don't you?" she remarked casually, her gaze steady.
Finn rubbed the back of his neck with a sheepish grin. "Guess I've had a lot of practice," he admitted before bouncing away, his focus shifting to Strudel and Toast Princess, who were attempting synchronized flips under Jermaine's watchful guidance.
Breakfast Princess watched him leave, her earlier irritation melting into a fond smile. "He's always so… helpful," she muttered to herself, her tone quieter, almost wistful.
Jungle Princess, catching the murmur, raised an eyebrow, a knowing glint flashing in her eyes. But instead of commenting, she simply sipped her tea, her focus drifting back to the young adventurer with quiet curiosity.
"THE HUMANS LIKE WHAT?" A sudden shout rang out across the bouncing marshmallows, breaking the moment. All eyes turned toward Hot Dog Princess and Raggedy Princess, whose flushed faces practically glowed with embarrassment. The duo's outburst had everyone's attention.
Finn froze mid-bounce, his tea sloshing precariously in its cup. Jake arched an amused eyebrow, his elastic frame bobbing with the motion of the marshmallows. "This oughta be good," he quipped, his grin widening.
Jermaine, steady as always, simply crossed his arms, watching the scene unfold with mild amusement. Meanwhile, Jungle Princess and the Breakfast Kingdom princesses exchanged curious glances, clearly intrigued by the commotion.
"ADVENTURE!" Princess Bubblegum's voice sliced cleanly through the rising murmur of the crowd, her usually composed tone laced with exasperation. "THE HUMANS LOVE ADVENTURE," she declared, her semi-glare landing squarely on Raggedy and Hot Dog Princess. The two flinched under her stern gaze, shrinking back like schoolchildren caught misbehaving.
"Isn't that right, Finnegan?" Bubblegum continued, her voice softening just slightly as her attention shifted to her son. Her steady gaze was expectant, though her usual calm seemed tinged with something more protective. "Isn't that why you've decided you want to be a hero?"
Caught off guard, Finn hesitated for a moment. "Err… yes?" he offered, scratching the back of his head. He wasn't entirely sure what had just unfolded to leave his mom flustered, but he decided not to question it. After all, she'd mentioned handling the "negotiations" with the other princesses. It was safer to leave it at that and focus on the task at hand—showing everyone just how fun the Mallow Tea Ceremony could be.
Shaking off the moment, Finn grinned and looked toward Jungle Princess, who had just launched herself into another impressively high leap. "Oh, Jungle Princess—you're jumping pretty high! Want to try a backflip?" he called out, his tone full of encouragement.
Jungle Princess smirked mid-air, twisting her body gracefully as she began her descent. "Is that a challenge, your highness?" she teased, her voice steady despite the wobble of the marshmallows beneath her. Without waiting for a response, she bent her knees on landing and launched herself upward in one fluid motion, executing a flawless backflip. She landed with practiced ease, her spear's tip lightly tapping the marshmallow's surface to maintain her balance.
"Whoa!" Finn said, thoroughly impressed. "That was awesome! You make it look easy. It took me hundreds of tries just to land a single flip."
Jungle Princess gave a small bow, her smirk widening with confidence. "Plenty of practice with balance and momentum," she replied. "This is nothing compared to hunting wild boars while swinging from vines."
Nearby, Breakfast Princess had been observing the exchange with thinly veiled irritation, her arms folded tightly across her chest. She huffed, muttering under her breath, "Oh, please. It's not that hard." The words came out sharper than intended, but the flicker of doubt in her eyes betrayed her bravado. Jungle Princess's ease on the marshmallows was starting to grate on her, and she wasn't about to let the vine-swinger steal all the attention.
Taking a deep breath, Breakfast Princess crouched low, determination etched on her face. With a powerful leap, she launched herself into the air, aiming to pull off an equally impressive feat. At first, her jump was steady and strong, her form promising. But as she attempted to twist into a flip mid-air, her momentum wavered. The twist faltered, and panic flashed across her face as her arms flailed wildly.
"Ahhh!" she yelped, her voice laced with panic as the ground seemed to rush toward her in a spinning blur.
"Gotcha!" Finn reacted instinctively, darting forward with precision and speed. He caught her just in time, steadying her before she could slip off the marshmallow and tumble onto the grass below. His grip was firm yet gentle as he helped her regain her balance.
"You okay, Breakfast Princess?" Finn asked, his voice warm and reassuring, a kind smile lighting up his face.
For a moment, Breakfast Princess could only stare at him, her cheeks blooming a deep crimson. "Uh… yeah, thanks," she managed to mumble, brushing off imaginary dust from her dress in an attempt to salvage her dignity. She glanced sideways, catching Jungle Princess's amused gaze. The spark of mischief in the vine-swinger's eyes only deepened the blush on Breakfast Princess's cheeks.
"Maybe take it slow next time," Jungle Princess advised, her tone teasing but not unkind. "Bouncing's all about rhythm, not rushing. That's trice now you almost fell off. I think you were trying to call someone's attention."
Breakfast Princess whirled on her, her embarrassment flaring into irritation. "Stay in your lane, vine-swinger," she snapped, her voice sharper than she intended. The redness in her cheeks betrayed that her frustration stemmed less from Jungle Princess's remark and more from her own missteps.
"What was that?" Jungle Princess asked with an arched eyebrow, her tone amused as she tilted her head. She watched with faint curiosity as Breakfast Princess adjusted the bacon adorning her egg-white hair, clearly trying to steady herself.
"I had it under control," Breakfast Princess shot back, though her wobbling stance suggested otherwise. She huffed, turning her back on Jungle Princess with a dramatic fold of her arms.
Jake, who had been watching the whole exchange with great interest, let out a low whistle. "Man, this is better than any drama on TV," he said, stretching an elastic arm to grab a nearby teacup. "I should've brought popcorn."
Finn, oblivious to the brewing tension, was too focused on helping Breakfast Princess steady herself one last time before glancing across the bouncing marshmallows. Jungle Princess, meanwhile, casually stepped away from the exchange and made her way toward Jermaine. The eldest of the brothers was keeping a watchful eye on everyone, making sure no one—least of all Finn—pushed their powers or enthusiasm too far. He cracked a small smile at Strudel Princess, who was attempting somersaults with surprising success.
Jungle Princess watched for a moment, her expression softening as she observed the youngest princess clearly enjoying herself, laughing with carefree delight.
She couldn't lie, she was having fun on this royal event.
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The sun dipped low on the horizon, painting the sky in warm hues of orange and pink as the Mallow Tea Ceremony drew to a close. The last of the princesses began to depart, their laughter drifting softly across the meadow like echoes of the day's joy. Finn stood at the edge of the marshmallow mountain, his hands cupped around his mouth as he called out enthusiastic farewells.
"Goodbye, Breakfast Princess! Strudel Princess! Tell Toast Princess her mid-air flip was awesome!" Finn's grin stretched wide as he waved to the trio from the Breakfast Kingdom. The sisters exchanged warm smiles, though one of them—possibly Toast Princess—cast a few side glances Finn's way as they boarded the breakfast-mobile car. Little Strudel Princess, exhausted from a full day of bouncing, dozed off in the backseat, her tiny head resting against a stack of fluffy cushions.
"Take care, Hot Dog Princess! Thanks for not accidentally setting anything on fire this time!" Bubblegum added, her voice carrying both humor and relief. Hot Dog Princess gave a sheepish wave from the steps of her hot dog-shaped carriage, clearly aware of how close she'd come to causing a minor catastrophe earlier in the day.
"Raggedy Princess, it was lovely having you here," Bubblegum said with a nod of polite finality. "I hope you have a safe journey back to your kingdom."
The worn and frayed Raggedy Princess gave a faint but genuine smile. "Thanks, Bubblegum. And… good job on not losing it. You know, with all the chaos," she said, her words laced with a dry sense of humor as she began her long walk back to the junkyard she called home.
As Raggedy Princess trudged through the twilight, she mulled over the events of the day. For all its absurdity, the Mallow Tea Ceremony had been oddly productive. Negotiations between the kingdoms had gone smoothly—or at least as smoothly as they could have, considering the shouting match earlier that had left both her and Hot Dog Princess wide-eyed and flustered. Honestly, she wasn't sure she'd ever look Princess Bubblegum and her son in the eye again without remembering the near-catastrophe of that discussion. It was clearly a can of worms opened.
Her thoughts wandered as she shuffled through the overgrown path. The idea of explaining certain topics to her future subjects sent a shiver down her spine. Glob forbid if she ever has to explain to the kids of her own if she has them in the future. She fought back a blush as flashes of horrifying revelations from the day's earlier conversations bubbled in her mind. Socks? Tentacles? Farts? Bananas from Nightosphere? Humans in the past were clearly out of their minds. How does Bubblegum even know all of this stuff? No wonder she always looks like she's five seconds away from a stress meltdown.
Those thoughts were always something that crossed in the mind of the wornout princess, as she could understand one single fact.
"I'm just glad Hot Dog Princess didn't spiral after learning that horrific information. Honestly, imagining Finn's growing up around all of this weirdness? No… eccentricities? Yeah, it was better to describe that way. It could clearly show how much the world had changed since that forgotten war... Props to Bubblegum for staying sane after doing all this research." Raggedy Princess shook her head, muttering under her breath. The thought of having to field questions about human anatomy or adolescence made her grateful her kingdom was populated by thread and fabric—not anything she'd need to over-explain.
Still, as absurd as the day had been, she couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. The negotiations with Bubblegum had opened up opportunities for trade—fabric supplies and materials that her kingdom desperately needed. In exchange, she'd agreed to mentor Finn and his brothers, offering them guidance in crafting and combat training. It wasn't a bad deal. Between sewing new creations for her kingdom and watching Finn, Jake, and Jermaine train, Raggedy Princess figured she'd find new ways to grow her domain while helping the young adventurer blossom into his potential.
She glanced back at the marshmallow mountain one last time before vanishing down the trail. Despite everything, the day felt hopeful. Even in the chaos, there was growth—both for her kingdom and for the relationships she'd built.
Finn stood watching Jungle Princess as she patched up a giant feline companion. The majestic creature stretched lazily, its sleek fur glinting in the fading light, as if bidding the day farewell alongside its mistress.
"Until next time, Finnegan," Jungle Princess said, her teasing smirk softening into something warmer. She swung a leg over the feline's back, her posture relaxed yet regal. "Try not to make your mom go berserk if she gets into trouble again."
Finn groaned, rolling his eyes with an exaggerated pout. "Please, I don't even want to think about that lunatic trying to kidnap her again," he replied, crossing his arms. "As much as I enjoy wrecking his whole cave, I'm trying not to add more headaches to the endless list she already has." He paused, his expression softening into a sheepish grin. "I mean, someday I might be the end of her—she'll probably throw a fit so big it'd scare Grob Gob Glob Grod themselves—but at least I'll be protecting her. And all the princesses too."
Jungle Princess chuckled, shaking her head as she studied the young adventurer. His resolve was clear, and it was admirable. The earnest determination in his voice, the way his eyes sparkled with ambition—it was the mark of someone destined for greatness. A small smile tugged at her lips as she glanced at him.
"Well, you've got a good heart," she said gently. "But still, be careful. I know I'm not your mother—and yeah, she's very overprotective—but survival always comes first. That's the rule of nature. Keep it in mind when you're out on those journeys of yours, okay?"
Finn returned her smile, his blue eyes bright as the sunlight caught his golden hair, turning it into a soft halo in the sunset glow. He nodded earnestly. "Got it. Thanks, Jungle Princess."
For a fleeting moment, she found herself taking in the sight of him—the young prince without his iconic hat, silhouetted against the sunset. It was a rare image, and one that made her blush faintly. Shaking the thought away, she straightened up and urged her feline companion forward with a soft nudge of her foot.
"It was worth the trip," she said over her shoulder as the feline began to stride away, its powerful paws gliding over the grass. "As an adventurer and hero, you'll always have an open invitation to my kingdom, Finn. Don't forget that."
"Thanks!" Finn called, waving enthusiastically as the Princess of the Forest disappeared into the distance. "I'll definitely visit someday! Maybe I can learn more about the forest and study the biome!"
The meadow grew quieter as Finn turned back toward the marshmallow mountain, now a shadowed silhouette against the deepening sky. He spotted Jake and Jermaine walking towards the restroom area—a necessary addition after last year's incident, when too much tea had sent both him and his mom running for emergency solutions. Bubblegum's lesson hadn't stuck, though; earlier that afternoon, she'd disappeared briefly thanks to drinking even more tea this time around. Oh, he's going to tease her a lot because of that. But who was the one to judge? He will be using the bathroom at the time he returns to the Tree House, but he wouldn't tell his mom that.
Finn approached the base of the marshmallow mountain, where Princess Bubblegum was already at work. With a small, precise pin in hand, she deftly punctured the corner of a marshmallow, watching as the air slowly hissed out, shrinking it into a manageable, flattened heap.
Finn joined her without a word; his presence met with a quick, approving glance from Bubblegum. She handed him a pin, the tiniest smile flickering at the corners of her lips, and together they set about deflating the marshmallows one by one.
The meadow felt calm now, a stark contrast to the earlier chaos of bouncing and laughter. The rhythmic hiss of the marshmallows deflating filled the space around them, accompanied only by the occasional rustle of the grass beneath their feet. It was a comfortable silence, the kind only shared by two people who didn't need words to feel at ease in each other's company.
Finn moved from one marshmallow to the next, mimicking his mother's method with surprising care. The repetitive motion of the work—pressing the pin into just the right spot, watching the air escape with a soft sigh—was oddly satisfying. Every now and then, he'd glance toward Bubblegum, watching as she worked with her characteristic precision, her focus steady and unwavering.
The last light of the sun turned her candy-pink features golden, her silhouette framed by the soft glow of dusk. She moved with purpose but without rush, and something about the scene made Finn pause. He felt a quiet pride swell in his chest—not just for the success of the day but for being able to share this moment with her.
Bubblegum didn't say a word, but she felt his gaze. She didn't mind. There was something unspoken but understood in the gentle rhythm of their work, in the quiet companionship they shared.
As the marshmallow mountain steadily shrank, Finn let his thoughts drift. The absurdity of the day—the bouncing, the laughter, and even the moments of chaos—felt like distant echoes now, leaving only this peaceful stillness. He felt a rare sense of calm that came from knowing they had accomplished something together, even if it had just been a tea ceremony.
By the time they reached the last marshmallow, the stars had begun to appear, dotting the deepening twilight. Finn carefully pressed his pin into the final one, watching with a faint grin as it let out a long, drawn-out hiss before collapsing into a crinkled heap.
He dusted off his hands and slung his pack over his shoulder, glancing at Princess Bubblegum as she straightened, tucking her pin into a small pouch. She took a moment to survey the now-cleared meadow, her shoulders relaxing as the weight of the day seemed to lift.
"It was a wonderful ceremony," she said, her tone softer now, carrying the satisfaction of a job well done.
Sitting cross-legged on the grass, Finn nodded in agreement, his expression thoughtful. "Like every year, you know... I had a slight feeling today would've gone terribly somehow." He shrugged with a faint grin, though the note of honesty in his voice lingered. Bubblegum tilted her head, understanding that feeling all too well, and nodded.
"I know, right?" Bubblegum replied, lowering herself to sit beside him. A rare peacefulness settled over her features as she leaned back on her hands. "Let's just be grateful that Glob was merciful, and it didn't go badly."
"Always be thankful for the small mercies," Finn agreed, a smile tugging at his lips. It was something both mother and son had learned together over the years—an unspoken lesson that even the smallest moments of grace could save you from the biggest headaches. And for them, running a kingdom as vibrant (and chaotic) as the Candy Kingdom, patience had become one of their greatest strengths.
Finn glanced down at the grass, idly twirling a blade between his fingers. "I know you did this to get me back to the kingdom," he said lightly, meeting her gaze. "And I'm not even mad about it. I'll treat it like an adventure day." He paused, leaning back on his hands with a relaxed grin. "After tomorrow, I'll head back to the Candy Kingdom for a few days, okay? You've got my word."
Bubblegum's face softened into a warm, heartfelt smile. Gratitude and pride filled her expression as she reached over, pulling Finn into a gentle hug. She kissed his forehead—a gesture so full of motherly affection that it made him freeze for a moment, his cheeks burning with embarrassment.
"You're a wonderful son, Finn," Bubblegum said softly, her voice brimming with love. "Never forget that."
Finn pulled away with an exaggerated pout, his face still pink. "Moooom," he whined, dragging the word out. "What would Jake and Jermaine think if they saw me like this?" Despite his protest, there was no mistaking the faint grin tugging at the corners of his lips.
Bubblegum laughed quietly, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "I don't care what they think. I'm just appreciating these moments while I have them." Her voice grew softer, almost wistful, and Finn couldn't help but notice the weight behind her words.
For a while, they sat in companionable silence, watching as the last hints of daylight faded into a deepening twilight. The meadow, once filled with laughter and bouncing chaos, had transformed into a serene expanse of quiet. Crickets began their nightly chorus, their soft hum blending with the gentle breeze that rustled the grass.
As Finn stood and slung his pack over his shoulder, Bubblegum remained seated, her eyes still scanning the meadow. The ceremony had been a success, no doubt about it. Yet, there was a nagging thought at the back of her mind—a subtle unease she couldn't quite shake. It was as though something had almost gone wrong but hadn't. The feeling left her curious, and maybe just a little cathartic.
What had she done right? What had been avoided? The answers eluded her, slipping through her thoughts like water through her fingers. It was frustrating, but oddly satisfying at the same time. Perhaps she'd never know.
Finn turned to face her one last time, giving a quick wave. "See you in a couple of days, Mom."
Bubblegum smiled, raising her hand in a silent goodbye. The question of what could've gone wrong lingered faintly in her mind, but for now, it didn't matter. All that mattered was that it hadn't—and for that, she was grateful.
As Finn disappeared down the path, his laughter carrying faintly on the evening breeze, Bubblegum allowed herself a quiet moment of peace. The day was over, the meadow empty, and her heart, for now, was full. But still that feeling was kinda annoying, what it was? Maybe she would never know…
-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x
"Oh my Glob! I almost forgot it's the Weekly Promcoming Dance! THE best event at Lumpy Space School. Like, honestly, who even cares about anything else?" Lumpy Space Princess exclaimed, flinging her arms out dramatically as she lounged in her usual lumpy grandeur. "Good thing I decided to stay here instead of leaving Lumpy Space. I mean, yeah, I could've graced that boring bouncing tea party thing with my presence—but let's be real. Nothing compares to this."
Her expression twisted into a scowl as she thought of Melissa—her arch-nemesis and the perpetual thorn in her lumpy side. "Ugh, but of course that awful Melissa had to be there, ruining the vibe with her lame relationship with Brad. Like, whatever! She probably only started dating him to steal my spotlight. Typical Melissa. Just wait—she'll totally backstab me someday. I mean, it's, like, practically her thing."
LSP paused for dramatic effect, flicking her hair back as her smug grin returned. "But at least I had a GOOD time, unlike Hot Dog Princess. Like, for real, tea-drinking AND bouncing? Pfft, so BORING. Floating is so much better. I bet she's just jealous that I always have more fun than her. Probably sits there, crying into her hot dog bun, wishing she had my flawless lumps."
She sighed contentedly, relishing the thought of Hot Dog Princess's imagined envy. "Yeah. I am, like, sooo much better than that little dog. She could never." With that, LSP twirled in mid-air, her confidence radiating as she imagined all the ways she'd keep her rightful spot as the center of the lumpy universe.
-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x
"Well, that was fun," Hot Dog Princess said with a satisfied sigh, dismissing her little hot dog knights for the evening. Though they were, in her own words, "very stupid," she couldn't help but see them as her beloved children. She never got mad at them—no matter how many times they messed up—because she'd always treated each of them like sons. It made her wonder how Princess Bubblegum handled her own challenges, especially when it came to explaining the more… delicate topics of life to her child.
A visible shiver ran down her small, bun-like frame as she blushed madly at the thought. The idea of discussing such subjects with anyone, let alone children, sent her spiraling. And then there were humans. She couldn't begin to wrap her head around how Finn, the last human of Ooo, came to be. The humans of the past had left behind strange, eccentric urges. Shouldn't there be human hybrids by now? she wondered. But she quickly shook the thought away. She didn't want to know the answer—and if Princess Bubblegum's unsettling knowledge was meant to scare her away from even thinking about a relationship with Finn, well, mission accomplished. It was a nope, nope, nope, nope situation.
"I don't even want to imagine Finn's reaction when Princess Bubblegum gives him the talk," she muttered, cringing at the mental image.
Her thoughts were interrupted by the buzz of her cellphone. Glancing at the screen, Hot Dog Princess blinked in surprise. The caller ID revealed none other than Lumpy Space Princess. "Huh. I wondered where she was. I thought I'd run into her on my way back." She pressed the button to accept the call. "Hey, girl."
"Hey, girl," LSP's unmistakable drawl replied from the other end, accompanied by the faint, annoying jingle of her cellphone's vibrating bells. "I just sent you, like, 100 pictures of the BEST party in Lumpy Space. I bet you're, like, SOOO jealous right now."
Hot Dog Princess blinked, her eyelids twitching as her jaw tightened slightly. Of course, the very first thing LSP would do was try to provoke envy. Typical. She inhaled deeply, plastering on a polite tone. "Well… I'll check it out later. I'm soooo tired. It must've been all the bouncing and tea I had at the Mallow Tea Ceremony. Oh, and Finn had a blast bouncing around with Jungle Princess and Breakfast Princess," she said with a deliberate nonchalance.
"Wait, what?" LSP's smug tone faltered; her interest piqued.
"Oh, yeah," Hot Dog Princess continued, her voice light and casual, though a sly grin tugged at her lips. "Finn had a ton of energy—he was bouncing everywhere, saving Breakfast Princess, and having a little competition with the other princesses. Too bad you missed it. You would've loved the gossip I picked up from Princess Bubblegum. Oh, Glob, so many juicy secrets I'll never tell another soul."
"Hey, hey, hey, hey, what secrets?" LSP's voice rose in urgency, the dramatic edge of her curiosity almost palpable. "Girl, don't leave me in suspense here!"
"Sorry, just between me and the princesses," Hot Dog Princess said with a sing-song lilt. "You know how it is. Anyway, I'm sure your weekly Lumpy Space event was waaaay more awesome than my day. Oh, and one last thing—Breakfast Princess still didn't invite you to the Breakfast Kingdom Princess Day this year, huh? Oh, Glob, so sorry to hear that."
"Hey, hey, hey! What do you mean by that?!"
"Bye, girlllll!" Hot Dog Princess sang sweetly, ending the call with a satisfied tap. She set her phone down and padded toward her oversized dog bed, a triumphant smile spreading across her face. She liked LSP, she really did, but sometimes when Lumpy Space Princess got petty... Hot Dog Princess knew exactly how to return the favor.
Settling into her soft bed, she chuckled quietly to herself. "I wouldn't be surprised if Lumpy Space Princess had crashed the ceremony. Bubblegum probably would've lost her mind dealing with her. Maybe she's not overreacting about keeping Finn away from her. Sometimes… she's just too much."
With a yawn, Hot Dog Princess closed her eyes, letting herself drift toward sleep. As she succumbed to the comfort of her bed, she couldn't help but imagine Lumpy Space Princess's face, twisted with envy and rage, screaming into the void about all the secrets she couldn't uncover.
It was a lovely thought to end the day.
-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x
"Again." Jermaine's voice rang out, calm but commanding. Finn, mid-jump, executed a precise kick aimed at the orange cat dressed in a tattered scientist's coat. The feline, eyes gleaming with cunning, threw a vial at him with a quick flick of its paw. Finn twisted in mid-air, narrowly dodging the projectile, which shattered on the ground with a hiss.
As the cat darted to the side, Finn countered with a swift slash of his sword, the blade gleaming as it cut through the air. But the agile cat was faster, leaping away effortlessly. Finn growled under his breath, glancing toward Jermaine, who was grappling with a hulking, armor-clad shark. Jermaine held the massive creature back with the steady power of the Demon Blood Family Sword, his stance unwavering.
"You almost got him!" Jermaine called, his voice calm but encouraging. "Keep fighting until you find an opening."
"These guys are tough," Finn muttered, shifting his stance as the scientist cat suddenly lunged forward. Before he could react, another vial soared through the air, exploding into a cloud of swirling mist. Finn blinked—and when the mist cleared, he realized with horror he'd been transformed into a rabbit.
"Oh, crap," he squeaked, his voice high-pitched and panicked.
The cat pounced, claws outstretched, but Finn frantically hopped away, narrowly avoiding its strikes. "Help!" he shouted, bounding toward Jermaine, his oversized rabbit ears flapping comically.
Jermaine, unbothered by the chaos, dodged a swing from the shark's massive fin before delivering a heavy punch to its face. He looked down at Finn, raising an eyebrow. "Crouch."
Without hesitation, Finn dove low, his fluffy body just barely skimming the ground. Jermaine pivoted smoothly, his sword flashing as he brought it down in a clean arc. The cat didn't stand a chance—its head separated from its body in one swift motion, the limp form collapsing to the ground.
"Oh, Glob," Finn said, his wide rabbit eyes staring at the scene in shock. "You just… you just sliced its head off!"
"It's fine," Jermaine replied nonchalantly, gesturing to the fallen body. "These guys have regeneration DNA. In 24 hours, their limbs will grow back, and they'll come after us again. No big deal." He glanced at Finn, who was still a rabbit. "Don't worry about the potion—it wears off in about two minutes. You'll be back to normal soon."
Turning back to the shark, Jermaine nodded in thanks. "Appreciate the help with training, Shark."
The shark grinned—at least, as much as a shark could. "No problem. Glad to mix it up with someone new. 2v1 gets boring after a while."
Before the words were even out, Jermaine's sword flashed again, slicing cleanly through the shark's head. "Yeah, yeah. You both always lose because you get distracted," Jermaine said matter-of-factly. He glanced at the clock on a nearby tree stump. "Huh. Five o'clock. We're right on schedule."
Finn felt his body shift as the potion finally wore off, his form returning to that of a sweaty but determined young adventurer. Jermaine gave him a quick once-over. "You're doing fine. Just a few more weeks of this, and you'll have the basics of fighting and combat down."
"Is this what you do every day?" Finn asked, wiping sweat from his brow. Despite his exhaustion, a satisfied grin stretched across his face. Training with Jermaine was tough, but he could feel himself improving.
"Yep. Four o'clock sharp—same time Jake visits Lady Rainicorn," Jermaine said, taking a swig from a water bottle he'd pulled from his cooler. He noticed Finn's tired expression but couldn't help the small smile tugging at his lips. Having someone to train with was a welcome change.
Finn flopped onto the grass, staring up at the darkening sky. "Huh, I wouldn't be surprised if Jake proposes to her someday. Don't tell him, but I think Lady Rainicorn's waiting for it. Like, maybe two years from now?" Finn sat up, his blue eyes gleaming with a knowing look. "Trust me, she told Mom while they thought I wasn't paying attention. But I was totally listening while doing my calculations."
Jermaine raised an eyebrow. "Oh, boy. Knowing my brother, he'll probably be oblivious until she kicks his butt—or just gets mad enough to make him do it." He shook his head with a chuckle, tossing Finn a water bottle. "Welp, it's been nice knowing my old brother while it lasted."
Finn laughed, popping the cap off his bottle and taking a refreshing sip. The two sat quietly as the sunset painted the sky in vibrant hues of gold and orange. The meadow around the Treehouse felt calm, a stark contrast to the chaos of their training just moments ago.
Jermaine glanced at Finn, his voice quieter now. "You're doing good, Finn. You've got potential. It's not just about swinging a sword or landing a punch—you've got the heart for this. That's the most important thing."
Finn smiled, the words bolstering his resolve. As both the Scarlet and Demon Blood Sword rested nearby, and with the lessons of the day fresh in his mind, he knew he was one step closer to becoming the hero he wanted to be.
"Jermaine," Finn called out, catching the heroic dog's attention. Jermaine paused mid-step, glancing back to see Finn finishing off the last of his water bottle. The boy's expression was earnest, his blue eyes shining with gratitude. "First and most important, thanks for everything you've done as a hero for the kingdoms. You and Jake have been a real breath of fresh air—especially when things went wild after Billy disappeared. Ooo was in chaos without adventurers like you to protect the kingdoms."
Jermaine gave a small shrug, his demeanor calm as always. "Oh, that's fine. To be honest, it doesn't bother me much. I'm happy to help where I can," he replied. Helping others had always come naturally to him. Even when the adventuring life brought its challenges, Jermaine was grateful for the chance to grow alongside Jake and learn more about the world—and himself.
"Still," Finn continued with a warm smile, "as part of Candy Kingdom royalty, it's my job to acknowledge and appreciate the work you've done for everyone. You've been incredible, especially with all the help you've given me during training. Jake's been a big help, too." He scratched the back of his neck sheepishly before adding, "I know adventuring can be exhausting for heroes like you, so if you ever need help… well, you can count on me."
Jermaine chuckled, reaching out to ruffle Finn's hair. "I appreciate it, Finn. I really do," he said as they began walking toward the Tree House together. "And I'm glad to hear you'll be returning to the Candy Kingdom tomorrow. Turns out me and Jake have somewhere urgent we need to be."
"Really?" Finn asked, his brows lifting in surprise. "What's going on?"
Jermaine nodded, his expression turning thoughtful. "It's family stuff. Jake and I are visiting our parents' house tomorrow, but it's nothing you need to worry about."
Finn tilted his head slightly, curious, but didn't press further. "If it's something important and private, I understand," he said with an easy nod, earning an appreciation smile from Jermaine.
"Thanks. I really appreciate that," Jermaine said sincerely. As they reached the base of the Tree House, he glanced over at Finn. "So no, I've got no problem with you heading back tomorrow. And honestly? Yesterday was a pretty great experience for me. I didn't know you Candy Kingdom royals had such interesting traditions. I'm glad I got to be a part of it."
Finn grinned, his energy returning as he thought back to the Mallow Tea Ceremony. "Yeah, it's been a while since I had so much fun at one of those. Normally it's just me and Mom playing around, but teaching new people how to bounce on the mallows? That was a blast."
Jermaine laughed, his ears twitching with amusement. "Oh yeah, you definitely caught the attention of a few ladies out there," he teased, a playful grin tugging at his lips.
"What do you mean?" Finn asked, tilting his head in confusion, his expression adorably oblivious.
Jermaine smirked, shaking his head as he opened the door to the Tree House. "Oh, you'll figure it out soon enough, boy. Trust me, it's gonna be a good learning experience for you." He couldn't help but chuckle at Finn's clueless expression. The kid clearly had no idea how much attention he'd caught from the princesses—but with a mom like Princess Bubblegum, it wouldn't be long before he figured it out.
"Now," Jermaine continued, motioning for Finn to follow him inside, "let's play some video games with BMO. I'm pretty sure he's got a new game installed."
"Awesome!" Finn exclaimed, his energy reignited as he darted inside, his face lighting up with excitement.
Jermaine watched him with a small smile, shaking his head fondly. Whether he was a prince or not, Finn was still just a good kid at heart—and that was what mattered most.
-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x
"Ahhhhhhhhhhhh!" Finn's shout echoed across the junkyard as his body tumbled unceremoniously into a pile of rusted scrap and broken trinkets. His reckless charge at the royal bodyguard Rattleballs had been nothing short of imprudent—but he'd wanted to push his limits, to test whether the master swordsman had any openings. Turns out, risks often came with consequences. And while Finn hadn't been slashed even once, the relentless volley of eggs hurled at him had been more humiliating than any direct hit.
Still sprawled amidst the junk, Finn sighed heavily. As embarrassing as it was, the experience had been… enlightening. Every mistake, every failed attempt, was a step forward. He stood, shaking himself off and brushing scraps from his clothes, already thinking about how to improve.
When he'd returned home earlier, the first thing he'd asked was to take on more community service as grounding. Cleaning the junkyard seemed appropriate—and he didn't mind lending a hand. Raggedy Princess, however, had been acting a bit odd. Finn wasn't sure why she'd started stuttering more than usual, especially after he'd casually mentioned his sock was ripped and politely asked if she could sew it as a favor. Her reaction had been… extreme. She'd panicked, flustered beyond belief, and he'd had to hastily retract the request. Now he was left wondering if she'd somehow developed a phobia of socks. Maybe that's worth a scientific discussion with Mom, he mused.
But distractions aside, Finn's focus remained on his training. After finishing his chores, he'd sought out Rattleballs to assess his progress after sparring with Jermaine and Jake. The royal bodyguard had agreed but refused to draw his sword, opting instead to use a simple ruler. Yet even armed with such a mundane tool, Rattleballs effortlessly knocked Finn down again and again. And the worst part? The endless rain of eggs that followed each mistake.
"Stop," the mechanical voice finally commanded, cutting through the din. Finn staggered to his feet, battered but oddly satisfied with the session. Rattleballs stood before him, his glowing eyes sharp and precise, his metallic frame glinting faintly under the junkyard's scattered sunlight.
"Your progress has grown steadily," Rattleballs said, his tone even but tinged with approval. "In a few weeks, I can begin emulating a training regimen for you to develop your own swordsmanship style—without breaking the Royal Promise."
"Thank you, Rattleballs." Finn grinned, the appreciation evident in his voice. Despite the challenges, he was grateful for Rattleballs' guidance. Knowing the robot would continue protecting the kingdom, his mom, and himself gave Finn a sense of security. The thought crossed his mind—next time Ice King came to annoy his mom, maybe Rattleballs could be reprogrammed to simply knock the lunatic out and remove his crown. Then Peppermint Butler and Mom could figure out a way to send Ice King back to his kingdom without causing harm.
He chuckled softly at the idea as Rattleballs stepped away, leaving him to catch his breath. Finn looked around the junkyard, the events of the past few days swirling in his mind. It hadn't even been a week since his birthday, but everything felt different now. The chaos, the challenges—it had all changed his life in ways he never expected. And yet… he was glad.
He was finally taking steps toward becoming the hero he'd always dreamed of being. An adventurer who protected others. Someone who could make a difference. But even as his heart swelled with pride, he knew the weight of responsibility that came with his dual role as prince and hero. He didn't want to disappoint his mom or his uncle. He didn't want them to worry—or worse, get hurt.
The horizon stretched before him, and Finn felt an unshakable sense of determination. Something big was coming to Ooo—he could feel it. And whatever it was, he needed to be ready. Ready to face whatever the future threw his way. Ready to become the prince and hero everyone needed.
As he stood there, his grip tightened on his sword. The path ahead was bound to be full of challenges, but Finn welcomed them. After all, there was no adventure without a little chaos—and the future was bound to be interesting.