SUPER SMASH BROS THE FINAL WARS Chapter 1: Endgames, a super smash brothers fanfic

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SUPER SMASH BROS. THE FINAL WARS

.::CHAPTER 1: ENDGAMES::.

{FOUR YEARS AFTER THE CIVIL WAR}

ABSOLUTELY SAFE CELL ZONE

PRISON 64

FORMER ISLAND OF THE COLLECTIVE

Sixty-four stories beneath this vast prison complex lie some of the most brutal criminals throughout the World of Smash. Four years have passed. Four years since the end of the Smash Civil War, the Subspace Invasion, and the Collective War. In a measure of four years, the World of Smash has lived off into a time of peace, prosperity, and friendly competition. Over time, the decline of criminality from the forces of evil has caused the Smasher heroes to rejoice in a new era of happiness and excitement. Today, the Smash world has developed into six regions of governed nations, each with autonomy and independence. The Smashers Initiative remains operational, albeit with fewer members since many of the Smashers decided to part ways from the work of heroism and enjoy the new world of peace.

**Prison 64 Complex Transmission To All Prisoners Underneath Level 10 And Lower: As a reminder, you are restricted from your basic principle rights of freedom outside of your cells. You may only exit your holdings if ordered by Major Warden Yamamoto. Keep the peace alive and the security strong. Thank you.**

The same raspy, elderly voice on the intercom played every day for prisoners Level 10 and under, where they house the most dangerous and world-threatening criminals on the planet. The lower the level floors, the higher the threat the individual possessed. 64 levels underneath the complex was an endless and bottomless abyss; literally, there was a massive hole at the center of it all. Anyone who falls in would instantly go to Hell, rumored by the guards. Giant elevators were situated across to transport an entire party or a large prisoner throughout. There was virtually no escape because the entire prison was basically underground (and the large amounts of guards and tight security), and even if someone managed to escape (somehow), they would have to survive the cold winter storms that always formed, as well as find a way to survive the freezing waters and glaciers surrounding the island.

**!Releasing Prisoner #07141983!**

"If I may ask, how long do you think you've been locked in here?"

"...", the prisoner made no reply. The cell was completely dark except for a small shine of light hanging from the ceiling. The prisoner's face was far from visible.

"Why did you choose to be locked in here?"

"...", no reply from the prisoner.

"I wonder when you're planning to escape…"

A slightly guttural voice with a thick Italian accent finally spoke. "It's been close to three years since I turned myself in. Those years I will regret, but I did the right thing. I remember the simpler times when I led a team of heroes. I remember when I launched an attack on Bowser's Kingdom. And from there, I sparked a civil war, pitting my friends and allies against each other. Eventually, we had to save the world on two occasions. Later on, we prevented the universe from falling the under the tyranny of a godlike despot. We saved this world many times. I'm responsible for all the actions and shortcomings I've committed to begin with. And that's what put me in here."

"And what makes this any different?"

"...I don't know...maybe it's because...I took the fall for this one", the prisoner decided not to speak again.

"Today you won't be released. I hope you can understand that..."

"...Mario."

"...", Mario did not reply.

"However, under Major Warden Yamamoto's confirmation, we would like to escort you to your new prison. We are transferring you to The Cube, an underwater prison facility only best suited for you."

"Why not let me stay here?", Mario questioned.

"Because you don't exactly fit in this category of villains. You should feel relieved. Most of these criminals are probably plotting to kill you, if they get out that is. Such that they're willing to cooperate with each other just to end your life. We won't have that problem anymore."

"...Fine...I'll go along", Mario exited his cell as they placed a brown bag over his head to cover it. In chains and unable to see, Mario had to follow protocol in the transfer. Five guards were summoned to lead him out. Mario was led out slowly as prisoners looked on.

Prisoner #08061986: Remains of Ridley ::: After being subsequently destroyed in the Collective War, he was put back together in the prison as his consciousness was still remained intact. To this day, he is still chained up due to his large body and continuously tells stories about his life as a space pirate general and being called the Cunning God of Death.

"And so it seems our brave and heroic Super Mario decided to leave the stage...how flattering...oh, how I miss the outside. Say hi to my precious Samus for me...oh, wait? You can't. Oh well...you know it wasn't entirely all your fault this time around...anyways, I should see you off. Hehehehehe...HEHEHAHAHAHahahaha!", Ridley's voice sounded lowly distorted, but yet petrifying at the same time.

Prisoner #04202006: Pig King Pokey "Porky" Minch ::: He was one of the seven commanders of the Collective Army. His spider mech was blown up, but somehow, he was able to sustain his frail body due to his apparent immortality. Today, he was placed in the salvaged Absolutely Safe Capsule, never to step outside his confinement, indefinitely.

"HAHAHAHAHA! Looks like Mario's not going to spend some more time with us! It's for the best, you fat loser! Almost the entire prison down here wants to kill you! You should consider yourself lucky! AHAHAHAHAHahahaha!", Porky was always the same bratty kid that once tormented Ness and tried to destroy the world.

Prisoner #03222012: Underworld Queen Goddess of Darkness Medusa ::: She was captured not long after the fall of the Collective Army, as she was also one of the seven commanders. She was confined in a room of mirrors, had her eyes covered, and her snake hair tied. In short, she proved little threat.

"*hiss* So the hero has left us. Shame I won't be returning to the surface anytime soon. Honestly, this prison feels like my chamber in the Underworld. *hiss* I'll make certain of my escape. *sighs* I'll be free at last. For I am no one's puppet", her voice sounded soft and almost hushed.

Prisoner #08272007: Dark Samus ::: Dark Samus led a terrorist attack on the Smash Capitol four years ago. He, too, played a role as one of the seven commanders of the Collective Army. All of the abilities from his power suit were stripped away.

"...", no message from Dark Samus, who was locked away in his dark cell.

Prisoner #11211994: King K. Rool ::: The nemesis of Donkey Kong was responsible for creating a naval disturbance a few years back until he was quickly expunged and sent to Prison 64 for his war crimes. Right now, he is locked inside a pirate-themed cell with a small lake and a palm tree.

"Mario, you aren't sure to remember me! My old pal Donkey Kong does! Hahahaha, wait until I get out! And then I'll start another crew of pirates and we'll ravage the seas once more! Gahahahaha! *snort*", King K. Rool sounded almost full-blown crazy.

Mario ignored all the villains that he walked past by. Nothing was going on his mind, except for what happens next when he's transferred to his next cell far across in the middle of the Northeast Ocean. That's all he would ever even think about, since—

"The warden wants to see you before you go. It was on his orders", one of the guards told the Italian. Mario said nothing and allowed the guards to take him to the warden's office via a giant elevator.

**!Now Exiting The Absolutely Safe Cell Zone And Entering The Warden's Floor! Please Stand By!**

Mario breathed slowly and calmly waited for what happens next. The elevator went up at a significantly fast pace. Levels and levels of prison cells were viewed by the guards, and as usual, the prisoners would look up to see who or what was going up or coming down.

OFFICE OF THE MAJOR WARDEN

PRISON 64

FORMER ISLAND OF THE COLLECTIVE

Mario was led through an air-conditioned hallway and straight into the warden's office. The office appeared dark and only the warden's face could be seen. The sack on Mario's head was removed on the warden's order. The warden was wearing dark shades and dark green military-style clothing, like the stereotypical dictator.

"Major General Officer Yamamoto Higuchi", Mario blankly stated.

"Mario Mario, it's been over more than two years since the last time I saw your face. The last time, I was in charge of overseeing that you got locked by in Level 8", the warden stated right back.

The Italian plumber/hero underwent a drastic change. His luscious brown hair was dirty and ruffled up, as well as longer. His bright dark ocean blue eyes were nearly lifeless. And to complete the look was a full-on beard, replacing his signature Italian moustache.

"Level 4", Mario corrected.

"You watch what you say around Major Yamamoto-sama!", one of the guards threatened.

"It's alright...After all, I only called him to confirm that he would get transferred safely. The Cube will serve as a great place for him. See that he boards the correct ship. The Frigate 1983", Yamamoto explained. He turned to Mario. "Call this a favor. Your friends wanted to make sure you were sent to a better lockup. Well, I'll be seeing you on your way."

"My friends? I'd figured they'd abandon me after all this time. Not after what I did. It doesn't matter either way. I deserved to be locked up. It was my choice", Mario thought, reminiscing about his allies and their generosity.

FRIGATE 1983

PRISON 64 DOCKS

PRISON 64

FORMER ISLAND OF THE COLLECTIVE

He was finally taken outside, only able to breathe the cold winter air on a frozen night. The guards got him on board on one of the docked frigates that were preparing to leave. Mario waited patiently in the barracks while the guards watched him. Mario refused to sleep after that. Not feeling tired, he looked at the bright lunar moon in the dark sky and stared for hours on end as the ship sailed for his next destination.

{LATER THAT NIGHT}

COLLAPSED RUINS OF THE TOWER

FORMER ISLAND OF THE COLLECTIVE

An ominous person in a fully black cloaked hood observed the vast prison complex from afar in the highest point of the island, which was the snowy forests and mountains. From inside a cave, he watched closely and made preparations to strike at hand. In the corner next to him was another person in a navy blue hoodie. Electricity sparked from his very body.

"My Lord, say the word and we will attack", the navy blue hooded figure said undoubtedly while kneeling on the floor to bow. His voice was both garbled and electrifying. "HEH HEH!"

"Let us...COMMENCE!", the dark cloak figure shouted as dozens of soldiers proceeded to slide down the icy cold winter forest and strike Prison 64; all of them wearing black military ops gear and metal masks.

"YES, SIR!", all of them shouted as soon as they slid down the mountainside of the cold forest.

"I'll be going along with them to have some fun", the navy blue figure stated.

"...Do as you wish. Remember our top priority...Kamek", the black hooded figure replied.

"Understood Master", Kamek nodded and headed off into battle.

Kamek was thought to be completely vaporized in the final battle against the Collective, but he was easily able to wiggle out of being destroyed 100%. Evolving once more, he has pledged allegiance to the man who saved him. At first, he was called Kamek the Magikoopa. Then, he became a cybernetic hybrid machine called Mecha Kamek. Next transformation was Meta Kamek, which was basically an 'evolved' version of Mecha Kamek. Lastly, Nanite Meta Kamek, but it was also defeated by the Smashers. Now, Kamek just calls himself Kamek.

"...", the black-cloaked figure looked on as the soldiers were hiding in an inconspicuous manner, waiting on the signal from their leader.

THE JAILBREAK

PRISON 64

FORMER ISLAND OF THE COLLECTIVE

"Sir, we're in position and currently waiting on your signal", one soldier stated over the transmitters. Kamek waited among the soldiers.

"Allow Kamek to greet them first", the Master instructed. "Kamek, give us a proper entrance by shutting down the prison", the Master ordered to Kamek.

"HAHA!", Kamek took off in the air and prepared to use a deadly move. "Dead End Electric Field Wave! HA!", Kamek blasted an electrical storm that shut down Prison 64 in one go. "Magnetic Lightning Strike!", Kamek obliterated the prison's defenses and allowed for the prison wall to be broken down.

"Sir, we are clear to proceed inside the prison", one soldier confirmed.

"Kill all the guards. Leave none left breathing. Capture the warden as well", Grandmaster ordered.

"Yes Sir!", the soldier copied that.

Being heavily outnumbered and outclassed by the soldiers, the prison guards were unable to quell this sort of attack. "Communications are down. I can't get in touch with the warden. We can't contact any outside military forces at the moment!", one of the guards was pinned down by the gunfire happening in one of the hallways.

"Seriously?! Now we're dead meat", said the guard next to him.

"Dammit! How could this have happened so quickly?!", another guard complained.

"Bring them down! Make sure they don't release the prisoners. Hold them off until—", the guard was shot in the head.

Kamek entered the scene and killed the rest of the guards with a fatal shockwave of electricity. Once they finally reached the elevators, Kamek reactivated them all, allowing for the black ops soldiers to travel to Levels 64 and below. Within minutes, many of the prisoners were freed and told to gather outside in the prison docks.

"Alpha Squad 1, follow me to Levels 10 and lower", Kamek gathered a small tactical team of black ops soldiers to accompany him to the lowest levels where the most powerful villains were held.

"Keep your distance and make sure that these freaks don't get out!", one of the guards in the lower levels clenched an automatic rifle and ordered to fire once the enemy approached the lower levels. As soon as Alpha Squad 1 descended, they opened fire.

"Pfft, such infants", Kamek wasted no time and shot all the guards with one electrical pierce shot, killing them all.

Kamek observed the dreaded floors of Level 4, where the most dangerous villains were held. Kamek observed each of the custom-built prison holdings. Each of them had numbers and the name of the assigned prisoner: #11211994 | King K. Rool, #08272007 | Dark Samus, #03222012 | Medusa, #04202006 | Porky Minch, #08061986 | Ridley. There was one more that read #07141983, but the name was partially scratched off. Kamek merely ignored it and blasted all the cell doors, releasing all of his villainous allies.

"Whoa! Eh, well, whoever you are! Thank you! HAHA! I'll be on my way!", King K. Rool was about to leave when the black ops soldiers stopped him.

"You're in debt..to us! I won't be taking no for an answer unless you want to be crocodile leather in 4 seconds", Kamek told King K. Rool without even looking straight at him. Easily enough, the crocodile pirate king reluctantly agreed.

Kamek electrocuted Dark Samus's body, restoring the power to his power suit. "I look forward to teaming up with you once more, Kamek. This time, things will be different", Dark Samus proclaimed. Kamek simply nodded and moved on to the next cell.

Kamek removed the blindfolds and chains off of Medusa. "You're free now", Kamek whispered.

"Free? You mean, I can finally return to the surface?", Medusa smiled a bit.

"We promised to free you one day. Follow me", Kamek told her as he went to the next cell.

Kamek approached the Absolutely Safe Capsule and observed it with no expression.

"They call that the Absolutely Safe Capsule. It is supposed to be invincible to penetrate", King K. Rool noted.

"Hmph", Kamek electrocuted the Absolutely Safe Capsule with one fierce energy attack, causing it to open out of nowhere.

"Ah! Kamek, you dork! I should've known you would help me! Don't bother! I would've gotten out myself! Where's my spider mech or did you forget to bring it like that moldy brain of yours?!", Porky was obviously complaining and acting self-centered.

"In due time...let's go", that's all that Kamek said, with little patience towards the immortal pork demon.

Lastly, Kamek used his powers to reassemble the parts of Ridley together into the fearsome space dragon. Ridley broke out of his chains. "Well, well, well. It's about time you returned to the spotlight. If it's no trouble, I need a new body", Ridley stated as Kamek proceeded out of the cell.

"Sir, the Master requests for us to rendezvous with him at the shipyard", one of the soldiers stated.

"Very well...Let us head off, shall we?", Kamek and the rest of the prisoner's took the elevator up.

MAN O' WAR 11306

PRISON 64

FORMER ISLAND OF THE COLLECTIVE

Hundreds of prisoners lined up like an audience in the freezing cold where a large frigate was currently docked. Kamek and the rest of the villains arrived. At the top of the frigate was the black cloak hooded mastermind. He raised his arms in order to begin his address.

"Everyone here today is now free from the chains of Prison 64. As proof, I show you the hanging corpse of the warden", Grandmaster unveiled the dead body of Major Warden Yamamoto hanging from a high point of the ship.

***!CHEERS AND SCREAMS!***

"Allow me...TO REVEAL MY TRUE IDENTITY!", the Grandmaster removed his dark hood, finally revealing the Warlock of Death, the Gerudo King, GANONDORF! Ganondorf had orange dreadlocked hair. But this time, he had a sinister looking orange long beard. "I AM LORD GANONDORF OF GERUDO! AND I HAVE RETURNED!"

"All Hail Lord Ganondorf!", the black ops soldiers shouted.

"I ask of you, former inmates of Prison 64, sign on to join my army of the New Gerudos. If you wish to participate, then I welcome you aboard. If you refuse, you may walk away right now on your own will and perish in the freezing cold", Ganondorf spoke. Unanimously, everyone sided to join Ganondorf's New Gerudos.

Everyone received new military clothing and weapons as they got on board the stolen battleship. Kamek introduced the villains to Ganondorf. "As promised, Master Ganondorf", Kamek bowed. "I have already made contact with the seventh commander. He's waiting off the coast of an unknown island. The coordinates have been sent."

"The Syndicate of Evil protocol has now been officially established. From this moment forward, our true ambitions will begin. We will put an end to the Smash heroes once and for all!", Ganondorf exclaimed. Soon, all the villains began to laugh maniacally. "If it's the last thing I do, I swear I will put an end to the Smashers, and then, once everyone has outlived their usefulness, I'll conquer this entire planet and the whole universe along with it", Ganondorf smirked and joined in the laughter.

FRIGATE 1983

THE NORTHEAST OCEAN

Mario looked in wonder from a window to see that the prison was going up in flames. He dared not look back, knowing something terrible must have happened. But it wasn't his concern...not anymore for that matter. He was a criminal intending to serve his time instead of his people. "It's no longer my problem…", the former Smasher thought to himself.

Mario was barely paying attention to the commotion and the prison going up in flames. Only he could recount the day he turned himself in and how everything all went down. The day was two years ago and it was he who betrayed them all.

{TWO YEARS PRIOR}

PROJECT DESTINY

THE NEW SMASH RESEARCH FACILITY

NEW SMASH CITY

After the events of the conclusive and disastrous battle between the Smashers during the Smasher Civil War, the former Research Facility was restored into a newly developed, energy-efficient, high-tech research lab with expert scientists and hundreds of scientific research projects being done; all while the facility provides power to one-quarter of the whole city. Below the facility, however, houses some of the more confidential projects that very few individuals know about. As Mario proceeded to the underground levels of the facility, he felt the unnerving sensation of suspicion crawl up on him.

As the Italian plumber exited out of the elevator, he was met by a young security guard, who had been monitoring the secret levels as part of his job. He had frizzy but slick black hair, dark blue eyes, a navy blue security guard outfit, and a cold but innocent smile. "Mario, I wasn't told you would come at this hour", his tone sounded mellow.

"Alexander Mercer, right? It's a relief we have you around. What's the current status on Project Destiny?", Mario asked.

"The Destiny Project is still operational and running smooth. Should I accompany you to it?", Mercer reported.

"Sure", Mario and Alexander walked towards the lab room labeled:

PROJECT DESTINY - CONFIDENTIAL - DO NOT WALK IN UNLESS AUTHORIZED OR HAVE PERMISSION FROM THE ASSIGNED NIGHT GUARD OR LOWER LEVEL DIRECTOR!

Mario now felt an ominous and vile presence awaken; yet he couldn't detect energy unlike psychics, wizards, warlocks, machines, and divine beings. In the liquid chamber laid a dormant creature. It looked alien in appearance. It had a reddish orange color, a bluish-green face, and three bluish-green dots on its back arranged in a triangle. A purple stripe ran down the center of its face; there was a purple, crystalline organ in its chest.

PROJECT DESTINY - SUBJECT - DEOXYS::: Deoxys the Pokémon of Destiny was on a mission to destroy the Smash World until he was subsequently defeated by the combined efforts of Mewtwo and Lucas, the two highest ranked Smashers at the time. He was taken down in secret since no one knew of his appearance. It happened around the same year. Deoxys was locked up in secret underneath the Facility for experimentation.

"You think you have me under control, but you cannot control the supernatural abilities of Deoxys!", a booming, serious voice erupted. Mario was stunned, but not the guard.

"I believe it's time we leave", Mercer suggested. Mario nodded as they left the room. "May I ask you something?", the plumber raised a brow on Mercer.

"What is it?", Mario responded.

"Why did you agree to watch over the Destiny Project?", Mercer asked.

"President Richard Bowman requested that I keep Project Destiny a secret as I'm considered a 'trustworthy' hero", Mario explained. Mercer nodded as he slightly frowned.

"Do you regret doing this? I mean, I only follow orders from the government and I don't feel much different", Mercer asked, believing to get more out of Mario.

"Yes. The reason why Bowman wanted me to capture Deoxys alive and place him in a chamber in secret was so he could use him as a potential super soldier under full government regulation, but I think you already knew that, young man. He wants to build a weapon", Mario explained.

"Hm, interesting. Actually, I didn't know. They don't tell people like me what they're going to do with this research. I get paid $30,000 a year just to guard and scan the lower level, which is actually a bit more than what the other employees get. Plus I'm only 22 so they treat me like second class at times", Mercer told the Italian hero in an informal tone.

"Stay out of trouble, kid. You put yourself at risk just by working like this for the government...like me", Mario warned.

"I hope it's not an inappropriate question, but why not fight them yourself?", Mercer whispered.

Mario paused.

"Because I already did so before and that made the situation worse. I sparked a civil war and lit the powder keg. I put people at a risk from resisting. I turned on my own friends and made them fight each other. I won't be making the same mistake again", Mario quickly responded.

"Hm, I see. Hey, lighten up, old man. I'll see you later", Mercer patted Mario's back and returned to his active duties as a night guard.

"Sure", Mario nodded as he took the elevator to go back up to the Research Facility.

CONTAINMENT LEVEL (UPPER ROOF LEVELS)

THE NEW SMASH RESEARCH FACILITY

NEW SMASH CITY

Mario entered the Containment Level, which was the roof of the entire facility. It was late at night and the night sky was dark scarlet and almost misty. The Italian trailed along, only to be startled by a sudden noise he heard levels below. Suddenly, a black attack helicopter swooped in. From below the roof, dozens of men in navy blue-clad military gear rushed upstairs, confronting the plumber and the helicopter. Out from the helicopter was none other than President Bowman himself. He was a bald, overweight, towering man wearing a black suit and a blue tie.

Mario found himself surrounded by government troops. "What's the meaning of this? Why is President Bowman here?", Mario was on edge. He clenched his fists.

"Mario, I come here personally to bring you dreadful news… I'm afraid you're under arrest", Bowman simply stated, crossing his arms.

Mario, however, remained silent. Normally, he'd react and defend himself, but he decided best to strike later. "Why?", the red cap shielded his cold eyes.

"Because you are a threat to national security. You have been keeping secrets. We know about Project Destiny and your elaborate ruse to keep it hidden. And for what?", Bowman accused.

"It's clear that he's lying. Why is he trying to frame me?", Mario hesitated for a moment and spoke. He smirked for a moment and spoke. "Bowman, wasn't it you who assigned me this task of storing Deoxys away? Does the public know about this or are they suspicious of you?", Mario tried to prove his innocence; technically he was innocent.

"On the contrary, they already found out. The people know you've been a criminal even before you committed plenty of atrocities. For instance, the Smash Civil War, a war which you started", Bowman stated.

"That was in the past!", Mario raised his voice.

"If you can recall correctly, it was the people who called for legislation of the Smasher Registration Act. A law that you refused to follow. You may have acted outright in trying to defend your rights, but your act of defiance was also against the people themselves. This cannot be overlooked", Bowman explained.

"Dammit, I'm only walking into his trap. He wants me to get a reaction as an excuse to capture me", Mario was pissed.

"Thorough investigation of your work and your crimes are contained in this dossier", one of Bowman's top aides, Secretary of State Inzo Watari, revealed the documents. "Once it goes fully public, the world truly will know of your ill intent. I strongly suggest you surrender", Bowman advised.

All in a flash, Mario spewed away, dodging all the bullets that scattered everywhere. Then, all of a sudden, the lights started to brighten and soon cameraman wearing protective gear were recording the whole thing live. "He planned for this! I swear on my mama, when I get out of this, he's a dead man!", Mario swore.

Mario ran, not hoping to engage in battle. Ideally, he can take on 25 armed men on his own. But, Bowman's troops were high in number and stacked. Plus, he had no benefit in fighting, other than to defend himself. The Italian plumber ducked underneath to reach the floor below and recovered his signature shield; a worn out, circular, metal shield with a white star at the center. "I don't have much of a choice. I gotta get out of here and live on to prove my innocence", Mario believed.

"Gun him down!", one of the government soldiers issued an order. A dozen of soldiers fired their weapons. Thanks to Mario's speed, he avoided the shots. "What the hell?! Don't let him get away!"

"I thought we were intending to capture him alive", Secretary of State Inzo Watari grinned, asking Bowman.

"We will. We're just going to play with him for a while", Bowman spoke. "We'll execute him on the spot when no one's looking. I'm doing a great job so far in keeping the other Smashers in check...", Bowman thought. "Huh? Speaking of which..", he turned behind.

"President Bowman, we came here as soon as you called us", the famous bounty huntress Samus Aran showed up along with the renowned Captain Falcon and former mercenary Fox McCloud.

"Though I never called them. Must have been one of my aides. Hmm, this can actually work towards my favor", Bowman thought. "Thank you for arriving on such short notice", Bowman greeted them.

"Who do we have to take down?", Captain Falcon asked.

"See for yourselves", Bowman told them to look on as Mario single-handedly held off dozens of government soldiers.

"MARIO?!", all three of them looked shocked.

"I'm afraid so. An investigation team discovered he's been hiding a secret experiment in the facility called the Destiny Project. He and several other scientists were harboring a catastrophic-level Legendary Pokémon named Deoxys. Currently, Deoxys is still present and has not shown any resistance, according to investigators", Bowman said in a sincere and honest tone. "I can't give away too much. Let's see if they buy it", Bowman thought.

"I-I...I don't believe it! Mario wouldn't do something like this!", Samus protested.

"I've known the guy too long to know he'd never do such a thing", Fox agreed.

"With all due respect, sir. Mario would not do something like this. He must have been framed", Cap added.

"Persistent fools! They can't even do a goddamn task like this", President Bowman was not happy. "We thought you could help in stopping him, seeing you three are close friends with him. But I warn you, if you do not wish to participate, I understand. But if we capture him, he will have to be summarily executed under the Federal Jurisdiction of Nations for his crimes", the president explained.

"What?! That's not—", Samus was about to rant when Fox tapped her shoulder.

Fox shook his head. "We have to stop him. There's no point in trying to refuse. Mario's our friend, and we have to see to it that he's okay."

"Argh! Fine, then", Samus reluctantly agreed.

"...Alright", Captain Falcon nodded slowly, expressing the same emotion of reluctance.

Fox whispered closely so only Samus and Cap could hear as they paced to the battle. "I don't want to fight Mario as much as you guys do, but we at least can find a way to stop Bowman from executing him. That president's bad news and there's something about him that I don't trust."

"Same here. How about this? We convince them to lock him up somewhere far away. We'll make sure Mario is safe enough. Hopefully, if everything goes well, he'll be fine", said Samus.

"Alright", Cap nodded. "Let's go, shall we?", the three leading Smashers entered the fray.

THE STAGE (UPPER ROOF LEVELS)

THE NEW SMASH RESEARCH FACILITY

NEW SMASH CITY

Mario plastered and thrashed every single last one of the government soldiers. The Italian plumber knew he had to escape and find some help to clear his innocence. It was until he realized that Samus, Captain Falcon, and Fox confronted him.

"Mario! We're sorry about this, but we're going to have to stop you!", Samus pointed at Mario directly.

"You don't understand. I was framed! Bowman is out to get me. He's the real enemy. He set me up!", Mario exclaimed.

"So it's true. The president is intent on killing Mario to save face. And that must mean it's Bowman who's responsible for this", Samus thought, knowing her friend was innocent.

"I'm sorry about this. But we have our orders from the President to take you down. By force, if necessary! And by the looks of it, we have to take you down by force!", Captain Falcon shouted.

"Listen: I'm not going to fight you. I need your help to—", right then before Mario could finish, Fox shot him in the arm.

*bam*

Fox took this opportunity to charge at Mario and knock him down a few stories down, away from the onlookers. Immediately in retaliation, Mario struck Fox right back with a front kick. Samus and Cap jumped down. Both Mario and Fox were matched in hand-to-hand combat, but Mario had the higher advantage in trading stronger blows. Fox had elusive speed, but this was not enough.

Fox spoke as he had Mario locked in a full-nelson. "Mario, we're gonna get you out of here", Fox quickly stated, letting go of Mario.

"What?", Mario was in confusion.

"We believe you. We know Bowman is up to something. If we take him down now—", Samus was interrupted by Mario's next words.

"No, you can't! I won't risk you guys getting hurt because of me. It's clear if I escape now, Bowman will jump to brand you as traitors as well. The best course is to let me take the blame", said Mario. "I promised myself I wouldn't betray anyone. But it's already too late. Bowman placed me under pressure and is using me as a scapegoat to cover his own intentions."

"What about the Deoxys Project?", Cap questioned.

"It was a secret mission that Bowman kept in the dark involving taking Deoxys in for experimentation upon capturing him, transforming him into a weapon", Mario explained.

"What went down in capturing him?", Samus asked.

"Deoxys appeared in the dark with the motive of world destruction. In a covert mission, President Bowman sent me and our two strongest fighters to intercept him. We led him underground and eventually took him down. Bowman entrusted me and several scientists to take Deoxys back to this facility. No one else besides me, Bowman, and you know about the Destiny Project", Mario explained further.

"It's not fair!", Samus protested. "We agreed on a plan to save you. We were hoping to cop a plea and have you transferred to a prison far from Bowman's grasp if we couldn't get you out", she said.

"Hm, I don't know if that'll work", said Mario. "But, if it does, and as soon as I get out when the right time arrives, we go after Bowman."

"We'll do whatever it takes, my friend", Fox nodded. "Now that it looks like we had a good squabble, we can turn you in and make that plea."

Mario nodded as he had handcuffs placed on him in order to be taken to Bowman where many government soldiers lined up in a row, taking aim at Mario directly. Bowman smirked a little. "Excellent work, heroes. We knew we could count on you", Bowman stroked his chin.

"If you can, send Mario to Prison 64. They'll house him and he'll be too far away to cause any harm", Samus suggested.

"Sir, if you truly think Mario is a threat to this nation, then transferring him offshore in the remote and inescapable Prison 64 is the best course of action", Cap assured.

"Hmm...very well. Then, I'm entrusting you that he makes it there", Bowman agreed. "Perhaps Mario lives to see another day. Not for long, not as long I stay as president for another term", Bowman silently grinned.

And with that, Mario was taken into custody.

{LATER THAT FATEFUL NIGHT}

RESEARCH FACILITY ENTRANCE

THE NEW SMASH RESEARCH FACILITY

NEW SMASH CITY

"Alexander, my boy. How've you been holding up?", Bowman addressed the young security guard. "Your performance was great. That Mario never saw it coming. I understand it was a difficult choice, but I had to remove him from the spot. And just in time to secure my second term."

"Thank you, sir", Mercer briefly nodded.

"How's your wife doing?", the President asked.

"Oh, Tabitha. She's doing okay. So's my daughter", Alexander answered.

"Oh, I forgot. You're a young father. No wonder you're taking jobs like this and trying to support your family at such an age", Bowman added.

"I do what I do to get by, sir", Mercer smiled and nodded.

"And that's why you're a perfect worker. How about a promotion? I'd like you to keep an eye on Mario in Prison 64. You will work as a prison guard there", Bowman issued.

"What about my family? I can't just leave them at this time", Alexander questioned.

"That is a personal problem. I'm sure your wife and daughter won't mind it. You'll be paid more", Bowman placed a hand on his shoulder. "You have three months, boy. And then you're off."

Mercer watched as President Bowman left the Research Facility from there. The security guard looked on in a sudden disdain. He shortly smiled afterward for an unknown reason. "Well...this is new. What is this bittersweet feeling? Why am I smiling at a time like this?", Mercer tried to compose himself. "Oh well, it's not like there's anything I can do about it… at least I get paid more", Mercer mumbled to himself.

"Yo, Alex! It's time to clock out, man. You look tired", one of his colleagues and longtime friend, Tyler Williams, called him out.

"Oh...right. Thanks, Tyler. I better get home now", Mercer nodded as he clocked out of work.

"Hey I hope you're doing well for yourself, my brother. I heard something nasty went down a couple hours ago", Williams added.

"Yeah, I'm doing alright. They'll fill you in later. See you soon, man", Mercer took off.

"Yeah, man. You too. Take care, bro", Tyler shouted as Mercer drove off.

{4 AM}

ALEXANDER'S APARTMENT

UPPER WEST DISTRICT

NEW SMASH CITY

The young security guard parked his car in the underground neighborhood parking lot. He carefully looked around as it was still pretty dark and therefore risky to walk alone. He entered his apartment building, a 6-story, red brick building. He lived in Apt. 5M, a crappy two-bedroom apartment with a rent of $1,259.00 a month. Mercer unlocked his door and proceeded to fall asleep on the couch, only to be woken up by a woman with short brown, curly hair, dark caramel skin, and amber eyes.

"Wake up, you asshole! We're late on the rent again! And you still haven't paid the utility bills!", Tabitha Lynn Mercer was his wife, who he had married at 20 after she was pregnant. She woke him up by shouting at him.

Clearly, Alexander wasn't having it. He tried to ignore her, but it looks like he lost when she pushed him off the couch. "You're not even listening, you deadbeat! Get off your ass and listen for once! You never listen!", Tabitha shouted.

"Huh?!...I never listen?!...Maybe...maybe she's right. Why don't I ever listen?", Alexander thought as his head was still in clouds.

"Mommy? Daddy?", a child's voice was heard. She had light brown frizzy hair and amber eyes like her mother.

"Marilyn, you shouldn't be up this late. Your father and I were just talking. Go back to sleep, honey", said Tabitha.

"Okay, Mommy", Marilyn quietly returned to her bed, giving one last look at her tired father.

"Honestly, Ally. I wish you would stop letting people walk all over you. Someone's overworking you, baby", Tabitha told him in a soft tone. She brought him a small blanket and allowed him to sleep, realizing he was too stressed out and tired to talk.

"Finally...sleep zZZ", Alexander finally slept.

{PRESENT DAY}

FRIGATE 1983

THE NORTHEAST OCEAN

Mario stared into the distance sun as morning appeared. He was already out in a daze and refused to sleep that night. Trembled by the guilt and shame he felt, Mario could not sleep. As for Mercer, he too could not sleep as he looked at the distant sun. For so long in such a short time, the young security guard was no longer a husband nor a father. He was simply who he is now.

"Why do I enjoy this? It's not as if I don't enjoy it entirely. I gave up on seeing my family for this. Tabitha. Marilyn. But at least I'm keeping a promise. I won't let anyone stop me from seeing them. Mario, it's because of you I'm in this mess...I can't say I blame you entirely. Strangely, I admire you. You warned me of these consequences, but I didn't listen when I had the chance to get out. There was never a way to get out, was there?", Mercer closed his eyes.

"Will I survive? What am I even doing here? What if I just ran away now? Have I been forgotten already?", Mario had an existential crisis, asking himself numerous questions one after another.

"What good is this life now?", they both thought to themselves.