74This is the final chapter of the story. Today is my first anniversary on this site – and I even get to celebrate it with six delicious cakes made by our favourite Ninja :D!
Had some trouble uploading again, so I hope this is working now!
Chapter 7: All well that bakes well
"How long can it take to wash a little bit of cake off his stupid face?" Kai complained, his eyes fixed on the studio door.
Most of the frosting-covered contestants had quickly washed their faces and hands a at the kitchen sinks. They were now seated again on the pink sofas, chatting happily between each other, while waiting for the judges to assess the cakes and make their final decision.
And they were also waiting for Jay and Nya to return. After getting a very creamy Mango Cake thrown into his face, the Blue Ninja needed a more thorough clean than his friends, so he had gone to the dressing room for that. In the meantime, his girlfriend and Acry, the show's make-up artist, went looking for a fresh shirt.
"I think they wanted to save some of the cake for the judges." Cole retorted. "And to be fair, it wasn't just a little bit of cake."
"Yeah, sorry about that." Lloyd mumbled, looking down. It was the first thing he had said since the earlier incident. "I guess I've managed to ruin Zane and Arctic's cake and everyone's day."
"There is no need to apologise, Lloyd." The Nindroid replied. "According to P.I.X.A.L.'s calculation, there was a probability of 94.2% for this to happen. Which means if you had not done it, then most likely someone else would. And please do not worry about using our cake."
"I thought it was funny." Arctic added. "And I have learned so much from Zane today, that I am actually looking forward to making another cake again soon."
"It was funny." Kai stated firmly, and the other contestants nodded in agreement. "You really need to stop worrying so much."
"But I think right now you are worried that your sister is licking the cake off her boyfriend's face…" Ashley commented, making almost all people present burst of into laughter. Kai, however, just gave her a dirty look, silently telling the red-haired girl he was undecided whether to set her on fire right now or to save his energy for Jay, just in case.
But when his two teammates returned to the studio, he couldn't help but join into the laughter instead.
Jay was dressed a bright pink T-shirt, with the Great Ninjago Bake Off's title and logo printed on the front in white.
"Looking good, Jay. The colour somehow reminds me of ol' times." Cole laughed.
"Yeah, do you still have that dress?" Kai asked. [Remember The Snake King XD?!]
"Shh," Jay hissed. "I thought we've agreed to never mention this again?!"
"Did we?" Cole grinned at his best friend. "Oops…"
"I cannot recall this conversation from my database." Zane shook his head. "But P.I.X.A.L. and I agree that the shirt suits you very well."
"Ah, don't be jealous. Every contestant will get a t-shirt." Nellie, who had just entered, chimed in. "But I just wanted to let you know that the judges have made their decision, so if you could please follow me to meet them. And Jay… you still have a piece of mango in your hair."
She led them to another, smaller studio set up as a country style dining room. To everyone's surprise, not the slightest bit of pink (apart from Nellie and Jay's clothing) was found in this room, but the predominant colours were white and light blue instead.
"Usually, the contestants would be called in one by one, but we have decided to tell you all together this time." The presenter explained, before taking her seat with the other three judges.
A white wooden dining table was in the centre of the room, six part-eaten cakes (including one rather deformed one) standing on it. Nellie and her colleagues were sitting on one side of the table, facing the group of contestants who had just entered 'their' room.
"Welcome back to the final part of our wonderful baking contest." The presenter spoke to the camera. "All our teams have done a marvellous job but unfortunately, every competition can only have one winner. Or two, in this case. So, let me introduce our three wonderful judges who had to make this incredibly hard decision."
Nellie pointed at the browned-haired girl with hazel eyes. "Kate is a graduate of the Marty Oppenheimer School of Performing Arts, best known for her performance in Ninjago on Ice. And I am excited to reveal that she will be the host of the next season of Dancing with the Stars. And who knows, maybe we will also see some of today's contestants there again…" She winked at Cole.
"No way." The Black Ninja grumbled, vigorously shaking his head.
Nellie was unflustered. "Rin" The camera focused on the young man with spiky dark blue hair. "is the chef of Kirito and Rin's, one of the hottest restaurant in Ninjago City. And last but most certainly not least…" "… we have the amazing Dareth, Brown Ninja and Grand Sensei at the famous Mojo Dojo. No further introduction is needed so I am very happy to hand over to them now."
"Thank you, Nellie." Rin replied politely. "We have tried and very much enjoyed all six cakes. Before we announce the winner, Kate and myself would like to give you some feedback on your performance. The three main points are: presentation, taste, and teamwork. Kate, would you like to start with the first team?"
"I'd love to." The young woman smiled at Jay and Tori: "I really liked the presentation of your cake, the pac-man design was very pretty and the decoration gave a nice crunchy texture to the cake."
"I agree." Dareth added, picking another yellow mini M&M off the top.
"The taste was lovely, the orange chocolate flavour was fresh but not too strong." Kate continued. "Also, it looked like you enjoyed working together. Including during the food fight – although you also seemed to have fun fighting against each other. All in all, really great job." Jay and Tori high-fived.
"I will continue with the next team." Rin stated. "Zane and Arctic: Your presentation was very… interesting. Neither of us have ever seen a person 'wear' a cake before, like a fashion model."
Jay blushed, when all heads turned to him and laughter could be heard from the live audience.
"But don't worry, we have seen the cake in its original state." Rin said. "It looked lovely and we were extremely lucky that we still got to taste it. In all honesty, it was the best mango cake I have ever tried. The base was light and fluffy, a perfect combination with the fruity cream. Also, you have shown good teamwork; it is always great to see people who are willing to share their knowledge or are interested in learning new skills. Also, we were very impressed how eventually you have combined your knowledge and experience, to build the frosting catapult from tins, spoons and rubber bands. Well done."
"The next team are Kai and Crystal." Now it was Kate's turn again. "Again, your cake looked lovely and it was delicious. I love baked cheesecakes in general, and this one was exceptionally good. It was perfectly cooked, not raw but not too dry either. Your timing was obviously perfect in every aspect." She winked at Nya and Dawn. "Unfortunately, we had to deduct some points for the lack of teamwork…"
"Hey, I have made the chocolate chips." Kai interrupted.
"And we believe that cutting them yourself from high quality chocolate instead of using cheap chocolate chips from a pack has made a difference in both the taste and the look. Also, you have managed to work together during the frosting fight. So, well done to you as well."
Next up were Cole and Lia. "Excellent teamwork. You were the only team where both partners have contributed to the recipe and not only to the execution." Rin told them. "And this was the first time, we've ever seen contestants modify their recipe during the competition, creating a completely… novel experience. While all of us judges still prefer the regular carrot cake, we were very impressed with this approach. The frosting was delicious and your decorations were very pretty and fitting for your unique cake. Excellent job!" He gave them a thumbs-up with his bandaged right hand.
"Your cake looks beautiful, both from the outside and when cut." Kate was referring to Lloyd and Ashley's Red Velvet Cake. "The sponge has a deep red colour and the perfect silky texture. And it tasted lovely, especially in combination with the delicious, smooth frosting. Also, you have made a good team, while both baking and fighting your friends."
Nellie gave Lloyd a genuine, friendly smile. "Yes, I was very happy to see you enjoy the competition, after what happened… you know… at the book launch."
"Thanks. I-I actually had a really good time." Lloyd replied, much to everyone's – including his own – surprise.
"Most of you have worked very well together and this also applies to our final team, Nya and Dawn." Rin commented. "Your good teamwork was also reflected in your wonderful cake. The chocolate sponge is soft and fluffy, while the frosting is rich and deliciously chocolatey. The chocolate shavings on the top and sides look great and give it your cake a hint of crunchiness. But while all parts of your cake were already great on their own, they were even better when coming together. I should mention that chocolate cake is my favourite cake – so I have tried a lot of them – and I think you have come pretty close to making the perfect chocolate cake."
"It's my favourite, too." Kate agreed. Dareth, who had been stuffing his face with cake, only nodded in agreement.
"It sounds like our six teams have all done an amazing job." Nellie concluded. "I hope you've still managed to pick a winner…" She laughed.
"Yes, we have." Kate answered, handing the host a sealed envelope. "Although it really was a close decision [yes, it was!]."
"This is great news. And it means we are finally reaching the grand finale of this year's Great Ninjago Bake Off." Nellie announced. She then nudged her manager. "You need to get the trophies." She whispered to him.
The Brown Ninja dropped his small fork, excitedly jumped up and pranced out of the studio. He soon returned, proudly holding two ugly oversized golden cupcakes in his hands. Danni, Nellie's assistant, followed him with a large presentation cheque.
"In addition to the prize money, our winning team will receive a trophy for each member and and their recipe will be featured in my next book The ultimate Master of Cupcakes, Volume 2 [I had to put my username somewhere in the story]."
The TV host opened the envelope. "The winners of the 2016 Great Ninjago Bake Off are: Nya and Dawn."
She embraced the two girls in a long hug. "Congratulations, you totally deserve it." She told them with a huge smile on her face.
After exchanging goodbyes with the judges and their baking partners, the Ninja went to say goodbye to Nellie.
"Congratulations, your win really was well deserved." The host of the Great Ninjago Bake Off repeated her earlier statement to Nya. "I was very impressed with your baking skills."
"Uhm... thanks?" The Water Ninja replied, slightly embarrassed by the praise. And also confused that she had unintentionally found a way to gain the blonde girl's respect.
"I am sorry I was a bit rude to you earlier." Nellie apologised, a careful smile on her face. "Are we okay?"
"No worries, I wasn't too friendly either. So yeah, we are fine." Nya smiled back and hugged the other girl. "And thanks again."
"And I am sorry we have caused such a mayhem." Cole said to the TV presenter.
"Are you kidding me?" Nellie exclaimed. "The show has never had better ratings. And we've already got a few offers from magazines who want to do a special feature on your frosting fight. And the Ninjago Toy Company are planning to make a limited edition of Cake Face, with different coloured ninja masks. Ah, this is so exciting!"
Cole was less excited about the news though. When they had signed up for the competition, they had given up all media rights to the producers and the TV station, in exchange for the (guaranteed) prize money. Maybe from time to time it wouldn't be such a bad thing if we still had a manager…
But Nellie gave him an understanding smile. "By the way, those things were not included in your original contract, I've already had Dareth check that. So, if it's okay with you, he's going to negotiate your new share with the producers."
Cole smiled back. "That would be great, thanks."
"No, thank you." She gave a quick hug to all six Ninja. "And I would love to see you all at the next book launch."
"We'll see about that."
As they left the studio, they saw Ashley standing outside.
Kai nudged his younger friend. "C'mon, I know you want to ask her out."
Shaking slightly, the Green Ninja walked over to the red-haired girl. "H-hi Ashley."
She turned around and smiled at him. "Hi Lloyd. You finally managed to get away from the demon in pink?"
"Yeah, although she isn't as bad as I thought… so, whatcha still doin' here?"
"Oh, I am just waiting for my driver, he's going to take me home."
Lloyd swallowed. "Uhm, Ashleena?"
She raised an eyebrow. "Yes?"
"I-I was wondering if you would like to m-hang out with me sometime?"
"Sure, I'd love to." Ashley took a marker from her yellow handbag and wrote her phone number on the pink T-shirt in Lloyd's hand. She winked at him. "Call me." She winked at him.
Firmly clutching the shirt, Lloyd returned to his teammates.
"Good job, li'l bro." Kai slapped him on the back. "See, it wasn't that hard..."
Lloyd disagreed with the second statement, but he didn't want his friends to know that. "Well, as you've said earlier I've had a good teacher." He downplayed his nervousness - and his relief.
"Hey, Nya and I are going to meet Dawn and Tori at the Arcade on Saturday and everyone else is welcome to join, of course. Why don't you invite her to come as well?" Jay suggested.
"I think he might have had something else in mind." Kai informed the Blue Ninja. "But Arcade on Saturday sounds good to me."
"Yeah, to me too." Cole said.
"I would be happy to join in as well. May I also invite my baking partner? He also likes playing video games." Zane enquired.
"Sure." Jay replied. "And you know what else would sound good to me right now?"
"A shower?" Cole guessed.
Lloyd snickered. "Or new clothes?"
"Not a bad idea. Pink is not my colour and my hair feels really sticky from all the mango cream… hey, maybe I could style it like Kai's!" Jay exclaimed. "But I was more thinking of some proper food, after all this sweet stuff."
"What a brilliant idea, it could have been mine." Cole grinned widely. "Why don't we have dinner here in Ninjago City before heading back to the Bounty?"
"Fine with me." Kai approved. "And I think I know who is going to pay…" He looked over to his sister carrying her large presentation cheque. She had generously donated her trophy; together with their aprons, it was going to be sold in aid of the Grant-a-Wish foundation.
Nya vigorously shook her head. "No way, this money is for the Bounty's new rocket boosters." She sharply looked at her teammates. "No junk food, no video games, no hair gel. And no restaurant either. Just rocket boosters. But if everyone's willing to pay for themselves, count me in. Where should we go?"
"Burgers?" – "Pizza?"
"What about Master Chen's?" Kai suggested nonchalantly. "I am sure Skylor will be happy to give us a discount."
"Yay, noodles." Cole and Jay cheered.
"Yeah, we haven't had a lot of noodles since Chen's island…" Lloyd replied.
Nya and Zane had no objections to Kai's proposal either.
"So, Master Chen's it is then?" Cole concluded.
"Yes." Jay replied. "Now, c'mon, let's go, I am really hungry for some noodles now."
"Me too." LLoyd agreed.
Cole grinned. "And I've heard they have a great new dessert menu… might give that a try afterwards. I really hope they have cake!"
Thank you so much for all your support; I would have never expected anyone to read a story about the Ninja baking cakes ;), so I am very happy that so many people enjoyed it!
Again, I would like to acknowledge:
Ninja Pony (Guest) / Tori
Twinfeather / ArcticHazard
Kairocksrainbow / Crystal
LiaLia15 / Lia
Apocalypse Ninja / Ashley (this character and pairing have received a lot of positive feedback; I highly recommend reading AN's stories if you like her/them !)
SpiritWolfMusicalWriter / Dawn - Congratulations on winning the GNBO !
Guest / Danni
Rosas-Sampaguita-Luzviminda / Acry
Kiritoandrinforever / Rin
MLPninjagomore13 / Kate
I'm going to be very busy until mid June, so I probably won't be around much here for the next 2-3 weeks. But afterwards, I should have more time again over the summer!
