Chapter 1: Change of Plans
AN: Hey everyone! I'm excited to announce that this is the sequel to my first story. I'm excited to continue writing and I'm still working on being a better writer. So I'm hoping for some constructive criticism and I'm hoping to get some pointers where I can write and make this story more enjoyable for everyone. Please read and let me know what you think. I'm going to work hard on this and I will say that I may make some minor changes to the storyline, but I'll try to keep it as close as I can. I look forward to writing this and thanks for reading. I hope you enjoy the story.
***I don't own anything in this story, so please don't sue me.***
Bzzt…Bzzt…Bzzt… The alarm clock went off. Samantha lazily moved her hand over towards the alarm clock and tapped the snooze button. Four years ago, the oldest daughter, and future queen of Hyrule, Samantha Grace Aran, fought against her mother, Samus Aran, in a finals match to determine who'd be the champion and after pulling out all the stops, Samantha beat out the woman who trained her and taught her how to fight. And just before you think it couldn't get any better for the young princess, she received a proposal from her long time boyfriend, Marcus McCloud after she had won. The year after that, she reclaimed her title and became the first back-to-back superstar of the next generation of fighters. Then, in the last two years, she had some unfortunate circumstances. She missed last year's tournament due to food poisoning and she missed this year's tournament due to a sprained ankle; and that was just the beginning. Her best friend and younger sister, Virginia Lynn Hyrule, had accepted a job in the Aloha region the same day Samantha won her first championship and after she had left, Virginia hadn't come back in four years. She'd communicate from time to time, but lately, she hadn't been calling. Samantha sat up and an eevee popped her head up and happily chirped at the young woman.
"Hey Vivi." Samantha gently rubbed the young Pokémon's head. "How ya doing, girl?" Eevee chirped happily and nuzzled her head against Samantha's. The young princess sat up and walked towards the bathroom. She began brushing her teeth and thought about that day. Her sister was gone, and her mother was gone as well. A year and a half ago, Samus' power suit was stolen from the castle and desperate to find it again, she reached out to every contact she had in an attempt to find it. Then a week ago, one of her sources told her that they had something. Samus packed a few things, kissed her family goodbye, and left; leaving Zelda, Samantha, Alexander, and Jackson alone in the castle. Now, Samantha loved her family; she loved people of Hyrule, she loved the people who worked at the castle, but she was lonely. Her friends weren't around anymore; she didn't feel like leaving the castle, she felt alone. Usually she'd spend time with her mother, but Zelda was invested in the castle and spent less time with her family. She finished brushing her teeth and spat out in the sink before sighing.
'I wish for…a change. A little excitement isn't a lot to ask for, is it?' Samantha thought as she looked at herself in the mirror. Her long, golden blonde hair seemed to shine, despite it being ruffled from her slumber last night. She removed her clothes and stepped in the shower and started washing her body. Today was the final match of the tournament and since Samantha wasn't in it, she didn't really feel like watching the match. After finishing the shower, she dried off and stepped out. She put on new clothes and left her bedroom followed by her loving pet. When she got downstairs, the other pets were already eating and other than them, there wasn't anyone at the table. Samantha sat down at one chair as a cook exited from the kitchen.
"Good morning, your highness. What are we having today?" He asked with a bright smile. Samantha simply shrugged her shoulders.
"Surprise me." She said as she rested her head in her hands and closed her eyes. The cook left and another chair was pulled out next to her.
"Lady Samantha…is something wrong?" A voice asked. Samantha looked over and saw the senior maid and her mother's housekeeper.
"Hello, Lilly…I…" Samantha gave a louder sigh. "I miss Ginny." She said with a depressed tone. "I miss mom and…I just…I feel lonely. Like I wish I could spend time with mom again and yet, she's too busy with work and there isn't enough time to just hang out." Samantha's eyes started watering, but she tried to conceal her face.
"Samantha…" Another voice spoke up as Samantha looked in the other direction; it was her mother. Zelda pulled the chair next to her daughter.
"Mom…" Samantha sniffled. "I don't want to sound needy or anything, but I miss spending time with you." Samantha rubbed her eyes.
"I…" Zelda sighed as she looked down at the table. "I'm turning into my father, aren't I?" Zelda chuckled.
"A bit." Lilly admitted as Zelda sighed. "No, I swore I wouldn't do this. I would not be like him. I would not neglect my children the same way he neglected me." Zelda shook her head. "...which is why I've been planning a surprise for us."
"A surprise?" Samantha asked as her mother nodded. She handed her daughter a pamphlet that had palm trees and it looked like a beach design. She turned it over and started reading it.
"I've booked the four of us a vacation to Delfino Plaza." Zelda said with a smile. "Just think…you, me, the boys-"
"And one hundred of our finest guards to entertain us while you work." Samantha grumbled as she tossed the pamphlet on the table.
"No guards." Zelda said calmly. Samantha turned her head in surprise.
"…seriously?" She asked with eyebrows raised.
"The guards will assist us to the airport by the stadium, and after that, it's just the four of us. Plus, I've booked us for the spa treatment…well; I booked us for the spa treatment. The boys are getting massages as well, but the rest of it will be just us." Zelda grabbed the pamphlet and opened it before handing it back to her daughter.
"Are you serious? Like, this is no joke? When do we leave?" Samantha rubbed her eyes and asked with excitement in her voice.
"We leave tonight. Tomorrow, we'll get foot and back massages, facials, body treatments, manicures, pedicures, a steam bath, sauna, hot tub…and that's just day one. We'll be gone for three weeks…I assume that's plenty of time to catch up on everything?" Samantha's smile grew wider and her eyes sparkled before a startling realization as she looked down at the pets that were eating breakfast.
"But…what about-"
"My dear friend Malon will be swing by to bring our pets to the ranch. She'll take care of them while we're away. And your grandfather will take care of the kingdom while we're gone. I'm sorry I've been so busy with work and I haven't had time to spend with you or the boys. I'm trying my best, dear. You know that." Zelda held Samantha's hand.
"Yeah…I know that." Samantha said with a hint of sadness.
"Samantha, I know what you're feeling. My father…he was never around when I grew up. I promised I would not repeat that with my children. We'll attend the final match tonight and then we'll go." Samantha looked up like she couldn't believe what she heard.
"But mom-"
"Samantha, it's for the good of our country. If we do not show our support of the other kingdoms-"
"They'll turn their backs in our time of need. I know." Samantha pouted as Zelda placed one hand on her cheek.
"One hour. That's all I ask. After that, we'll head straight for the plaza. Just think about the spa." Zelda said. "Let's get a good breakfast in before we go." Samantha smiled and ate her breakfast. Zelda walked over to the kitchen and ordered breakfast while the boys ran down and sat at the table.
"Hey mom!" Jackson said with a smile on his face.
"Mom, are you coming with us? The final match is in a couple of hours." Alexander added. Zelda walked over and hugged her boys.
"I will be attending." Zelda said as the boys cheered. "And I have a surprise as well. When we come home, we'll be going on vacation."
"Vacation? Where are we going? Crimea?" Alex asked. "I can show Prince William how much better I've gotten with my sword skills."
"Or Yllistol? King Chrom and Queen Robin always tell the best stories." Jackson said.
"Those are good options, but I'm afraid they are wrong." Both boys looked a little upset, but were still excited that they were going on vacation. "We're going to Delfino Plaza…by the beach. Just the four of us." The boys cheered a bit louder when they heard the news.
"What is all the commotion?" A man asked as the table fell silent.
"Good morning, father." Zelda said with a bright smile. Zelda's father was an older man with tan skin, a white beard, and a red coat that he wore regularly. He was cheerful and kind in his old age, but he was more grateful that he could spend time with his grandchildren and advise his daughter and his daughter-in-law about how to run Hyrule. In the many years that Zelda and Samus have run Hyrule, they have accumulated many pointers given to them by the former King Daphnes.
"Good morning, my dearest daughter." Daphnes took a seat and quietly exhaled; his age was now starting to catch up to him. Zelda stood up and kissed her father's cheek before sitting down again. "What is causing all this commotion?"
"I have informed every one of our plans for a vacation." Zelda explained.
"I see. And the family is excited?"
"Among other things. We'll leave tonight. Now, are you sure you don't need someone else to run things while I'm gone? I can call Lucina, or Lucia, or Ranulf, or-"
"I will be fine, dear child. I am not incapable of mishandling the kingdom." Daphnes chuckled. "I will ensure that Hyrule continues to flourish."
"Alright…" Zelda said hesitantly. "But if you need any help, I left the phone number of the place we'll be staying at. Do not hesitate to call if anything-"
"Child…" Daphnes held up his hand, which stopped Zelda's voice. "You are on vacation…that is time for you to unwind. Worry not about the kingdom. I will be fine and so will Hyrule." He reassured his daughter. "You are deeply invested in Hyrule's well-being. That is a good trait to have for a queen." Daphnes smiled. "I suggest you leave. You might just make that final match." Zelda looked up at the clock as her food was placed in front of her. "We'll need to hurry." Zelda said. "Excuse me, Matthew." The chef turned around.
"Yes, your highness?"
"Oatmeal for the boys, please. Blueberry. And quickly, if possible." Zelda instructed. He bowed his head and entered the kitchen. The chef arrived with breakfast for the family and they ate together for the first time in awhile.
"Are we going to miss the match?" Jackson asked with a slight hint of disappointment. Deep down, Samantha hoped they could skip the whole thing and just go straight to Delfino Plaza.
"We might miss the introduction, but we'll make it. Samantha, can you inform the guards to bring a carriage to the front, please?" Zelda moved quickly and acted like a queen should. Samantha nodded and moved to the front of the castle.
"Morning m'lady." One guard said with a smile.
"Morning. Um…we need a carriage prepped."
"We'll have one ready in three minutes." The guard bowed his head and walked away to get a carriage ready for the family. Instead of going back inside, Samantha looked up at the beautiful sky and closed her eyes once again.
'A little excitement…that's all I want.' Zelda exited the castle with the boys following close by.
"Did you tell your grandfather goodbye?" Zelda asked.
"I'll see him when I get back." She said.
"Go inside and say goodbye." Zelda instructed. "We'll wait." Zelda folded her arms as Samantha sighed.
"Fine." Samantha walked back inside where her grandfather and Lilly were sitting and talking quietly. Lilly saw Samantha return and quietly stopped speaking. Daphnes turned and saw her standing alone.
"Did you forget something?" Daphnes asked with concern.
"Just…forgot to say goodbye." Daphnes leaned down and Samantha kissed his cheek before kissing Lilly's cheek.
"You are just like your mother…" Daphnes said with a warm smile on his face. "Your grandmother…would be proud to see the kind of woman you've become."
"Thank you, grandpa." Samantha bowed her head and smiled. "I'll be back before you know it." She grabbed Lilly's hand and gently squeezed before leaving. Samantha, once again, exited the castle and entered the carriage the held her mother and her siblings. It took off as soon as she sat down.
"Samantha, I know you want to leave, but we must do these things to show our appreciation. The reputation of Hyrule is shown through our actions."
"I know, but…w-what about last year? Princess Lucina was absent and no one said anything." Samantha protested.
"Lucina missed the tournament for personal reasons." Zelda explained.
"Why can't we just say-?"
"Samantha that is enough." Zelda said with a stern tone. "It is one match. Just. One. Match. It is not going to kill you to attend one match. Just sit there, and when it's over, we'll go." Zelda placed both hands over her eyes. "You know I dislike getting angry with you…please, just let this go. I promise we'll make time for shopping and the beach." Zelda reasoned. Samantha thought about the beach and she decided to let it go.
"I suppose I can let it go…but I want a hot stone massage." Samantha smirked.
"Fine." Zelda smiled and held out her hand for Samantha to hold. Samantha grabbed her mother's hand and the two women quietly laughed as the carriage moved towards the stadium.
"When we get there, I'm playing volleyball." Alexander said with excitement in his voice.
"I'm going to build the biggest sandcastle." Jackson said to his brother. Zelda made her way to the front of the stadium to purchase tickets.
"I believe our tickets are on hold." Zelda informed the ticketholder.
"Ah! Zelda! Yes, we have your tickets. Peach left them here for you." She held out four tickets for her.
"Thank you." Zelda grabbed the tickets and walked into the stadium and found her seats in the very font row; right next to Peach.
"Hey!" Peach waved at her friend and Zelda sat next to her friend.
"Peach, thank you so much for the free tickets." Zelda said as she hugged her friend.
"Of course, Zelda. What kind of friend would I be if I didn't get you tickets?" Peach smiled and waved at someone else. Zelda turned and saw one of her closest friends in the world; a blue female fox who went by the name Krystal. She made her way over to Zelda as both women hugged and exclaimed with joy. Her son, Marcus, waved at Samantha. Samantha hugged her husband and kissed him.
"I've missed you." Samantha said quietly.
"I missed you too." Marcus said while looking at her with adoration.
"How's work?" Samantha asked. Marcus looked away and sighed with frustration.
"Work sucks. Bad guys are everywhere and the paperwork…ugh…the paperwork…" Marcus shook his head.
"Well, my family is going to Delfino Plaza. Maybe you could join us." Samantha suggested.
"You know what; I might take you up on that." Marcus said as Samantha smiled at his response.
"How are you, darling?" Krystal placed a hand on Samantha's shoulder.
"I'm alright…how are you, Krystal?" Samantha asked.
"I'm well, thank you." She smiled. "Marcus has been whining that he miss you-"
"Not whining…" Marcus corrected her.
"Oh right. Not whining…" She winked at Samantha who smiled in response.
"Go Kirby!" Jackson cheered loudly. "Beat him up!"
"Knock him out!" Alex cheered on with him as the others stared laughing and they sat down.
"We should probably watch the match." Peach said followed that with a sigh and everyone sat down.
"It's been too long since Mario's won. He's worked really hard for this." Peach said while moving her hands anxiously.
"Mario's going to be fine." Daisy said while holding nachos, a pretzel, and a drink. She handed the pretzel to Peach and took her seat next to her sister.
"Where's my drink?" She asked. Daisy rolled her eyes and got back up and went to get her sister a drink. With a smug look, Peach took Daisy's drink and happily took a sip like she was proud of what she did.
"Daisy's going to be mad." Krystal warned.
"I'm pretty sure Daisy knows." Peach took another sip from her drink. The fight continued for awhile until Mario finally smashed Kirby into the dark abyss below.
"GAME!" The voice announcer boomed "THIS GAME'S WINNER IS…MARIO!" The crowd cheered and the stage started to reset but before Mario could celebrate, the sky began turning red and some unknown creatures that turned into soldiers started filling the stadium. The crowd panicked ran frantically for the exits.
"We need reinforcements." Daisy said as she was ready to jump the wall and help Mario and Kirby, but Peach placed a hand on Daisy's shoulder.
"Daisy, this is not your fight. Go home. I'll get Mario and we'll leave." Though Daisy wanted to disagree, she nodded in understanding. Daisy headed for the exit and Krystal followed.
"Marcus! We're leaving!" Krystal said.
"Not without Sam. I'm not leaving without-"
"MARCUS!" Krystal snapped. Marcus looked at Samantha with worry.
"Samantha, go home." Zelda said calmly.
"Mom, I won't-"
"Samantha…take your brothers and go home." Zelda said calmly; her eyes not leaving the creatures. Knowing that she shouldn't argue with her mother, Samantha started to leave with her brothers. The siblings made it to their carriage. Samantha opened the door and her brother climbed in.
"Your highness, what's wrong?" One guard asked. Samantha remained silent for a moment while thinking. "Your…Your highness?" Her attention snapped back to where she was.
"I…what?" Samantha looked confused.
"Is everything alright?" He asked again. Samantha looked and saw Krystal and Marcus running back towards the stadium.
"Yeah…yeah everything's great…take them back to Hyrule."
"Without you?! Or your mother?! That is-"
"That is a direct order. Do as I say." Samantha said as her eyes narrowed. The guard gulped hard.
"A-As you wish, your highness." He then moved towards the front of the carriage.
"And tell grandpa to call Marcus! I'll tell him everything!" She said. The guard looked back and nodded before taking off with her younger siblings in the back. Her attention turned back to the stadium.
'Mom needs my help.' Samantha thought as she ran back towards the stadium which was now completely empty. She entered and when she got back to the stands, what she saw scared her. A huge plant thing holding two cages; one held Princess Peach and the other held her mother. She looked around and Mario was nowhere to be found while Kirby was standing in the middle frantically looking at Peach, and then Zelda.
"Kirby!" Peach called out. "Save Zelda! Don't worry about me! I'll be fine. Take Zelda away from this place."
"No!" Zelda practically yelled. "Save her! I'll be alright! Just get Peach out of here. Leave me!" Kirby whimpered like there was no right choice for him to make. The pint-sized powerhouse then decided to start attacking the giant piranha plant. Samantha looked around and saw Krystal and Marcus standing by the stage and watching helplessly.
"Krystal! Marcus! What's wrong? Why can't you help him?" Samantha asked frantically.
"There's a bomb." Marcus said while pointing to a huge metal ball-like device with two robots next to it and a red counter on it. The time counting down and the current time was a little under a minute. "We need to leave."
"No! I can't abandon my mom. I won't!" Samantha's voice started to crack.
"Sam, we can't-"
"I won't abandon her!" She yelled as she desperately tried to climb over the wall to help Kirby, but Marcus grabbed her and pulled her back.
"Let me go! I need to save her! Mom!" Samantha cried out while trying to fight her husband, but Marcus was quite strong and his grip did not loosen. Kirby managed to beat the plant, and Peach's cage broke free. The two looked ready to fight some fat guy in yellow clothes and purple overalls stood in front of them looking around. He noticed Zelda laying on the opposite side…alone.
"NO! MOM!" Samantha screamed with tears falling from her eyes. Zelda looked up and her eyes met her daughter's.
"Samantha…" Zelda called out. "Run!" She screamed before a black arrow flew right through her body and changed her to a life sized trophy. Samantha stopped moving and it was like time had stopped moving altogether. Her mother…was dead. A distraught Samantha felt her heart shatter into a million tiny pieces and her stomach felt like it tightened.
"I…" Samantha gulped hard. "I don't feel good…" Samantha barely said as she stopped fighting.
"We have twelve seconds…Marcus…" Krystal said nervously. She pushed Marcus and started running towards her Arwing.
"Sam, we need to go. Now!" Marcus started running while holding her wrist. Samantha broke off from his grip, but she no longer protested as she ran behind him. Tears steaming as she continued running without looking back.
"Marcus, head straight to Corneria." Krystal ordered as she hopped into her Arwing. Marcus didn't object to his mother's instructions. He helped Samantha sit in the backseat of his Arwing before hoping in and prepping for takeoff. Krystal took off first and was quickly followed by Marcus. The two flew in silence as Samantha gazed out the window.
"Sam…" Marcus quietly said.
"She…She's not rea…really dead…i-is sh-she?" Samantha sniffled and tried uttering her words without taking her eyes off the stars that passed. Not knowing how to answer, Marcus stayed silent and continued flying to Corneria. Once they arrived, Marcus landed the ship at Star Fox headquarters. He helped Samantha out and the two started going home. Before they got out the front door, the receptionist started walking next to Marcus. She was a pig and other than knowing her name was Hannah, Samantha didn't know much about her personal life. But Hannah knew a lot about her and Marcus and she didn't care too much about the princess of Hyrule.
"Mr. McCloud, you've got six unread messages, Tiffany has requested some target practice with-"
"I'll deal with it later, Hannah." Marcus said as he escorted Samantha out towards the front door.
"Marcus, do you think she's worth the effort?" Hannah asked. "Whatever she's going through-"
"Hannah." He said with frustration in his eyes. "I'd advise you to stop speaking if you wish to keep your job." Marcus left with Sam following that sentence. He rushed back to the apartment that he owned; it was a simple two bed one bath apartment, but he didn't have any problem with its living arrangements.
"Here we go." He opened the door and helped Sam sit down on the couch. "Can I get you anything?"
"S-Some tea…please." Samantha said still shaken up by the events that occurred. Suddenly, the phone rang and she remembered what she told the guard earlier.
And tell grandpa to call Marcus! I'll explain everything!
Suddenly, she didn't feel like talking, but she answered the phone.
"H-Hello?" She said as she sniffled and rubbed her eyes with her free hand.
"Samantha…" The voice spoke on the other line; Samantha knew it was her grandfather. "Are you alright?"
"Yeah…Yeah I'm fine."
"I was informed to call you on this line…you sound distraught. Are you certain everything is alright?" He asked again. Instead of lying, Samantha would rather be honest with him.
"No." Samantha sniffled and wiped her nose with her free hand. "No, everything is not alright. Grandpa…I…I'm sorry." She started crying on the phone.
"What are you sorry about?"
"I couldn't save her…"
"Couldn't save who?" Samantha stayed silent for the longest time. "Samantha?" He asked with concern in his voice. Samantha closed her eyes tightly and continued.
"Mom is dead an-and I could s-save her…it's all my f-fault." She broke down over the phone. Her grandfather didn't say anything and she was convinced that she had made him angry.
"Your mother…is dead…?" He asked quietly, but received no response. "I…Samantha…what happened…you cannot blame yourself. Come back to the castle and tell me exactly what happened. I refuse to accept that you are to blame for this tragedy."
"No." Samantha sniffled. "I n-need to find him. I need t-to find the g-guy…I need to k-kill him."
"Samantha, you're not thinking clearly. Come home and we'll discuss how to handle this-"
"He must die!" She said with anger in her voice. She took a few deep breaths and recovered her composure.
"Who are you talking about?" He asked.
"I'm sorry, but I can't come home. I know you're probably mad with me. But I-"
"Samantha…" Daphnes sighed before continuing. "I can see I won't change your heart." He said calmly. "For my sake, do not do anything reckless."
"I…I won't." Samantha wiped away her tears from her cheeks. "I love you, grandpa. I love you."
"I love you too, child. You will always have a home in Hyrule. Never forget that."
"And grandpa?"
"Yes?"
"Can we…" Samantha cleared her throat. "Can we keep this quiet for now? I'd…like to address this issue when…when I return."
"Yes, of course. I will not tell a soul. Your mother…would want to hear this as well. I will inform Lilly about this, but outside of her…I will not tell a soul."
"Thank you. I…ah…I need to go."
"I understand. Hopefully, we'll talk soon. Goodbye."
"Bye…" Samantha said quietly as she hung up the phone. She glanced up at Marcus who brought her a glass of water, a cup of tea, and a bowl of tomato soup.
"In case you're hungry…" He set the tray down and sat next to her. "Samantha…I'm sorry…I…I couldn't…"
"It's ok." Samantha rubbed her eyes again. She leaned on Marcus who instinctively put an arm around her. "Why did this happen?"
"I don't know. But…I'm here for you. I'll be here for as long as you need me." Marcus said quietly. "Also…dad sent me a message. Apparently, those robot things have been hitting other worlds as well.
"Have they?" Samantha asked.
"He's investigating an SOS signal from a ship called the Halberd. He believes other kingdoms will be attacked as well. Gallia, Yllistol, Nohr-"
"Hyrule." Samantha said with worry as Marcus sighed.
"Sam, you've had a long day. Change into your pj's. I'm taking a personal day. I'll do the laundry and do some errands. Eat the soup, drink the tea, and get some rest." Samantha got up and walked into the bedroom to change. She handed Marcus the clothes she was wearing before and he put them in a large garbage bag along with the rest of their clothes. She kissed him and gave him a hug.
"Thanks Marcus."
"I love you, Sam. I always will." Marcus smiled, but didn't break the hug. He would stand there all day if he needed to and he would give Samantha all the time she needed. Eventually, she broke the hug and sat back down.
"I'll be here if you need me." Samantha said in an attempt to sound cheerful. Marcus left with the clothes and Samantha started eating her soup. She flipped on the television to have something playing while she ate. The first thing to pop up was a breaking new report about what happened at the stadium. She changed the channel to something else and the next channel was also talking about the event. She changed it again and what played was a loony toon sketch featuring Wiley E. Coyote and the roadrunner.
'It's better than nothing.' Samantha thought as she ate her soup and watched for a couple minutes before flipping the channel to something else. The next channel was talking about nature and she left it there while she finished eating. She then drank her tea and learned all about the puffer fish from the television show. Once she finished she brought the tray to the kitchen and washed the dishes before crawling in bed to take a nap. During her slumber, Samantha saw a red door in front of her and she felt a need to open it. But the closer she walked towards the door, the further it got away. She started running and it moved away faster. She eventually turned around and was standing right next to another red door; it looked exactly like the one she stood in front of before. She took a deep breath and pushed it open, but unfortunately, her subconscious woke her up before she saw what was on the other side. She heard sirens and immediately thought she was watching some kind of cop show. Instead, the TV was playing something about insects and she flipped it off before looking out the window. A perimeter was set around the apartment complex she was living in and the first thing she thought was that there was a bomb like the one the robots had at the stadium. She grabbed her stuff and just before she left, she had another thought.
'Everyone panicked and ran away. These people aren't running…' She glanced out the window again and noticed everyone was looking up…at the roof.
"What's up there?" She asked quietly as she shut the blinds and as she exited her apartment, instead of exiting the building, she locked the door and went upstairs towards the roof. When she got there she opened the door and looked around. She noticed something that looked like a living child with black wings protruding from her back. She had black messy hair and was looking down at the people below her. Before walking towards her, Samantha set a nearby cylinder to hold the door open while she walked towards this child.
"Hey, kid." Samantha called out. The child turned around and clutched this teddy bear she had in her hands. Her eye color was like a milk chocolate brown, and she was just a scared child. Tears rolling down her face as she whimpered with fear.
"Hey…" Samantha's voice was quieter now and she knelt down as to not intimidate or scare the child. "I won't hurt you. It's ok." Samantha said with sweetness in her voice. "Why don't you come over here? It's dangerous to be by the edge like that." The child shook her head and clutched her teddy bear even tighter as Samantha slowly crawled towards the girl.
"What's your name?" Samantha asked quietly. "My name is Sam."
"G-Genny." The girl quietly said with tears still rolling down her face.
"Jenny?" Samantha asked.
"W-With a G." She added quietly.
"Genny with a G…that's a pretty name. Are you hungry, Genny?" Samantha asked as Genny nodded. "Come with me and I'll give you food, and I'll help you."
"I miss mommy." The child rubbed her eyes and wiped away her tears.
"I'll help you find your mommy." Samantha was now in arm's length of the child and she could grab the child if she accidently fell off. "Won't you come with me? Please?" She offered her hand to the child. The young girl hesitated for a couple of seconds before reaching out and grabbing Samantha's hand. Samantha pulled the child towards her and the audience below clapped and cheered for her. Samantha held the child in her arms as she walked back towards the door.
"How does a peanut butter and jelly sandwich sound?" Genny nodded her head and rubbed her eyes again. "It'll be ok. I'm going to take care of you." Samantha said in a calm tone. Once inside the apartment complex, she walked back to her door and noticed it was opened and next to the door were two paper bags of groceries. She walked through the door and noticed the refrigerator open and what look like Marcus from the waist down.
"Sam, is that you? Hey listen can you grab-" Marcus stood up and noticed the young girl in her arms. "Who's that?"
"This is Genny with a G. She was on the roof and I thought I'd give her a sandwich because she's hungry. Can you hand me some bread, peanut butter, and jelly?" Marcus set the items on the counter as Samantha set the young girl down in a chair.
"She doesn't look like she's from around here." Marcus mentioned as he walked towards the front door and grabbed the last two bags.
"What makes you say that?" Samantha asked with sarcasm. Marcus smiled and walked towards the door to get the other bags.
"She's not like us. In fact, she looks almost human…except for those two wings on her back…do you think Corbeau knows her?"
"You think she's from Phoenicis?" Samantha asked.
"I think maybe she's from the other one. Kilvas? Is that it?" Marcus asked before shrugging his shoulders. "Maybe he can take her off our hands."
"Take her off our hands? I'm not passing her off." Samantha looked at the child who quietly ate her sandwich and her teddy bear was next to her. "She's alone…she's scared…she missed her mother…"
"Sam-"
"Marcus." She said with a serious tone. "Let me do this, please?" Samantha begged. Marcus sighed.
"Even if I say no, you're going to do your own thing." Marcus looked at the young girl who looked scared of him; she had a look like she was afraid he would eat her for lunch. "Fine." Marcus said reluctantly. Samantha smiled and hugged him.
"Thank you." She said softly and kissed his cheek. "Do we have anything that might fit her?"
"I don't think so. I'll call mom. I'm sure she has something and if she doesn't, she'll get something." He walked over to the phone to call his mother. Samantha sat next to the girl who had finished her sandwich and, once again, tightly held her teddy bear and looked at Samantha with fear.
"Honey, you don't need to be scared." Samantha offered her hand towards the girl. The girl slowly nodded her head like she understood what Samantha was saying and loosened her grip on the bear. Samantha waited with Marcus for Krystal to arrive later that day. While they waited, Samantha wanted to tell Marcus about the dream she had; the red door and she wanted to know what he thought about it.
"Hey…Marcus…" Samantha began but before she told him, she stopped.
'What if Marcus dies? I can't be responsible for that.'
"Yeah?" Marcus asked as the young girl was starting to feel his fur and smiling at how soft it was.
"I…never mind." She quickly brushed it off and before he could ask, his mother knocked on the door. Marcus got up and opened the door. His mother stepped in with a bunch of old child's clothes from many years ago.
"Is this her? She's such a cutie." Krystal knelt down and waved. The young girl held her teddy bear tightly and tried to hide behind it.
"Her name is Genny…with a G." Marcus told her mother, who was falling for this young girl.
"Oh…goodness you're adorable." Krystal began looking for extra clothes to give her. "Have you given her a bath yet?" She asked Samantha.
"I…no." Samantha admitted. "I barely know her. It'd be weird…you know?"
"Sam, she's filthy. Don't you see?" Krystal liked her thumb and started cleaning the child's forehead. Though the child turned her head away, Krystal's motherly instincts kicked in and she continued cleaning smudges on the child's face. "Do you want a bath?" Genny looked over at Samantha and reached for her and Samantha knew what Genny was asking.
"No. Genny…I…"Genny started giving her a puppy-dog pout and any resistance Samantha had gone out the window.
"Oh fine. How do I wash her…wings?" Samantha asked.
"Just be gentle." Krystal said as Samantha picked up the child and took her to the bathroom. Samantha started filling up the tub and adding soap to the tub before Genny stepped in and Samantha started washing her body. As Samantha started washing her hair, she couldn't help but smile as Genny was enjoying the bath. Once she finished cleaning the child, she dried off the girl and started brushing her hair. She sat quietly while Samantha finished brushing her hair and gave Genny a heart crown braid.
"All done." Samantha said as she held up a mirror. "What do you think?" Genny looked at herself in the mirror and then looked at the hairstyle before smiling at Sam. "I guess that means you like it?" She asked curiously before carefully opening the door and calling for Krystal. Krystal entered with a new set of clothes and leather sandals for Genny and she started dressing the girl. She now wore a grey t-shirt with a red Star Fox symbol on the front and white shorts with a flower print on the side. Genny looked up at Samantha and gave her a smile.
"You're so pretty when you smile." Samantha cooed as she went to pick up Genny, but she took a step back and started flapping her wings.
"Hold on now, hon." Samantha grabbed her before she hit the roof. "Let's go upstairs. You can fly around, but don't go too far." Samantha said as she carried the child upstairs to the roof. Once she got up to the roof of the building, Samantha let Genny take off and flew high in the sky; a part of Samantha was jealous that she was able to fly. Genny raced across the sky and stayed where Samantha could see her. Krystal came up and placed a hand on Samantha's shoulder.
"It's incredible, isn't it?" Krystal asked while her eyes away from the sky.
"Is she…from Kilvas?" Samantha asked.
"It's a safe bet. I'm sure Naesala will most likely help you. We need to get you to Gallia." The gears in Krystal's head began turning, but she stopped and looked at Samantha with concern; Krystal had the ability to sense brain patterns and Samantha was concerned that she was sensing what she was really feeling.
"Wh-What's wrong?" Samantha asked nervously. A long pause followed before Krystal closed her eyes.
"…nothing. I…it's nothing." She looked back up at the girl who finally flew back down towards Samantha and landed on the ground next to Sam.
"Did you have fun?" Samantha asked and the child nodded with excitement.
"I like it here." She said while looked out at the city.
"I like it here too, but we need to get you home. Your mommy and daddy are probably worried about you." Before they walked downstairs, something caught Samantha's eye and she couldn't believe her eyes.
'The red door! How…' Samantha thought as she couldn't believe it. What she saw…was it a vision? Was she supposed to go through that door? All she knew was that she felt like the door was calling to her.
"What's up, Sam?" Krystal asked.
"Um…nothing." Samantha quickly said and the three of them went downstairs. Marcus had been making a stew for the four of them while they were away.
"Good timing!" Marcus said as he took a small spoonful of the stew. "What do you think?" He held the spoon out towards Sam to taste test his food. Sam tried the food and smiled.
"Perfect. Like always." She said as she set Genny down in a chair. She grabbed the girl's teddy bear and handed it to her before taking her own seat as Krystal picked up the child's clothes.
"I'll run to the Laundromat and finish these before tonight…in case you decide to go out or something." Krystal said that last part directly at Samantha which meant she knew Samantha's intentions. Samantha nodded to quietly agree she would wait until Krystal's return. Krystal kissed her son and gave him a hug. She then hugged the little girl and surprisingly, Genny hugged the blue fox like she trusted her as well. Finally she hugged Samantha.
"I won't say anything, but please be safe." She whispered before kissing her cheek. "Be safe…we love you, Sam."
"I…I know. I love you all as well." She whispered as Krystal broke the hug and left.
"Well…" Marcus said with a sigh. What should we do now?" Marcus and Samantha decided to go for a walk and show the city to Genny. They walked to the park and they were on the receiving end of a lot of stares and comments.
"What is that thing?" One woman asked to her friend quietly. Another young frog boy pointed at her and the mother lowered his arm.
"Don't stare at it." His mother hissed at the child before glaring at Marcus and Samantha. More and more comments made Samantha feel uncomfortable; even Genny was starting to grip Samantha's hand a bit tighter.
"We should leave." Samantha whispered to Marcus.
"We'll be fine." Marcus reassured his wife.
"But-" Before Samantha could finish her sentence; a man threw a rock at the child which connected with the child's arm. Marcus glared at the man back as Genny started crying.
"She's a child!" Marcus said with anger in his voice.
"Get that freak outta here." The man yelled back. Samantha held the girl and gently coddled her until she stopped crying. A law enforcement officer broke up the fight as Marcus started walking away with Samantha.
"Where does he get the nerve?" Marcus asked as his attention turned to Genny. "Sorry about that, Genny." Genny reached out for Marcus and he held her while they continued walking towards the park.
"They just don't understand." Samantha shook her head. "Genny's a sweetheart and they're…" She paused and looked at Marcus. "Marcus, I wasn't-"
"It's ok, you can say it. They're animals. They're acting like savages…hurting a child…I can't believe it…" Marcus grumbled and shook his head.
They finally got to the park and found an empty space with no one around.
"Alright Genny. Stay close and don't wander off." Marcus said as Genny took flight. Samantha and Marcus sat on the ground and watched as Genny flew around and examined everything at the park.
"She's a curious little one." Marcus said with a smile.
"Yeah. This parenting thing isn't that hard. I don't know what mom was complaining about." Samantha's smile faded as she finished her sentence. She was still upset about losing her mother and even mentioning her like that caused her to think and her heart grew heavy.
"Sam, I'm sorry. I feel so helpless." Marcus' head sank into his hands.
"Don't. Marcus…I'm…I'm still processing all this and I need you right now…" Samantha said quietly. "I don't know what's happening and I don't know what to do…but I need my husband to be strong for me." Samantha felt tears running down her face. Marcus raised his head just slightly and wiped her tears away.
"Ok…yeah…I'm-I'm sorry. I just…I can't imagine-"
"It's like my heart has been ripped from my chest. Right now…it's…part of me wants to die." Samantha started crying again. "I've abandoned my kingdom-"
"Sam-"
"My people-"
"Sam-" Marcus said with a more serious tone.
"My family-"
"Sam!" Marcus practically yelled. "You haven't abandoned anyone. You're…taking a small break. Anyone in your position would need time to take in what happened." Marcus leaned in and kissed Samantha. "Sam, I promise…whatever happens, I'll be here for you…as long as you need me." Samantha smiled and rested her head on his shoulder.
"Marcus…you are the best friend I could ever ask for." Genny flew back down and landed next to the happy couple.
"Sam…" Genny whined as she grabbed her hand and tried to pull her away from Marcus.
"What's wrong, Genny?" Samantha asked as she pointed to this ugly looking pig standing not too far away from them. Marcus stood up and stood in front of them.
"There's a warrant for your arrest." Marcus warned with an angered look on his face.
"Maybe…" The pig snorted. "But you gotta catch me first." The pig turned around and started running off. Without a second thought, Marcus chased after him.
"Marcus, I have a bad…" Samantha started to say, but Marcus was already gone. "Genny, stay here. Don't go anywhere." Samantha sternly ordered. Genny nodded and sat down. Samantha turned, but saw that Marcus forgot his gun. For some reason, she felt like she needed the gun for…whatever would happen. She grabbed the gun and then ran after Marcus. She got to the top of the hill and saw Marcus lying down…just like her mother at the stadium; he was turned into a lifelike statue as well.
"NO!" Samantha screamed and looked at the pig who had the same gun as the unknown fat guy from the stadium.
"Boss is gonna give me lots ah money for these things. You're gonna make Pigma real rich." He cackled as he started charging the large gun at Samantha. With no time to get to Marcus, she fired the gun and it struck Pigma's gun. It started losing power until it completely shut down.
"Damn it. Hold still while I fix this thing." Pigma moved to the front of the gun and tried to find the problem. Samantha started panicking and couldn't move. She failed to save her mother and now she failed to save her husband. All she had was a single thought as she started hyperventilating.
'Run.'
"Got it!" Pigma declared as he moved towards the front of the gun. "Say goodb-" He paused as Samantha was now gone. "Huh? Where'd she go?" He scratched the back of his head with confusion. Samantha picked up Genny and ran as quickly as she could home.
'Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, FUCK!' Samantha thought with every step she took in her sprint home. She got home and banged on the door. Krystal opened it and Samantha pushed her way inside and set Genny down.
"Where's Marcus?" Krystal asked as Samantha set the child down on the couch and pulled Krystal to another room.
"Krystal…" Samantha began. "I…I can't do this…"
"What do you mean, you can't do this? Sam, what's going on? Where's Marcus?" Krystal asked.
"Marcus is dead and it's my fault…AGAIN!" Samantha started crying once again. Genny walked over to Samantha and rubbed her arm in an attempt to comfort her.
"Don't cry…I'm ok." Genny said, but Samantha was still deeply upset.
"Wh-What do you mean…Marcus is dead?" She asked.
"H-He was…" Samantha sniffled and wiped her nose. "L-Like mom…" She rubbed her eyes and sniffled once again. Krystal's eyes started watering and gave shuttered exhale.
"Wh-Who…" She closed her eyes and slowly inhaled in an attempt to maintain her composure. "Who did it?"
"He…H-He called hi-himself….Pi-Pig-Pig-" Samantha noticed Krystal's grip on the gun tightened.
"Pigma? Pigma Dengar?" Krystal asked with restrained anger in her voice as Samantha nodded. "That fat swine?" Krystal voice started raising and she was losing her restraint of anger. "That fat fucking swine took my son? THAT GODDAMN MOTHER FUCKING-"
"Krystal, please!" Samantha said and gestured to Genny who was cowering in fear behind Samantha. Krystal's anger subsided and she knelt down. She extended a hand, but Genny moved away from the blue fox.
"Genny, I'm sorry…I didn't mean to yell." Krystal said quietly. "I'm not mad at you. I'm sorry."
"I need to leave. I…I can't stay here. If…Pigma…I can't. I can't lose anyone else. Please…Krystal…I'm scared…"
"Me too, honey. Me too." Krystal kissed Samantha's forehead. "Tonight, you're not going anywhere."
"Wh-What?! But-"
"Stay the night and we'll make a plan. I'll call on Star Fox to scan the area for Pigma and I'll have a few police officers watch the house." Samantha knew better than to fight Krystal on this. She was acting in Samantha's best interest.
"O-Ok…th-thank you." Samantha sniffled and knelt down in front of the young girl.
"Where's your friend?" Genny asked.
"Marcus…is…" Samantha tried to think of something to say instead of telling this young girl that he's dead. "Marcus…had something important to do. He's going to be gone for a little while."
"Oh…is he coming back?" She asked.
"Yeah…" Samantha sniffled and wiped her tears rolling down her face. "Yeah, he'll come back." A smile spread across the child's face when she said that. "But first, we need to stay here tonight."
"But what about mommy?" Genny asked with worry.
"It's dangerous out there right now. If your mommy is out there, we'll bring her here, ok? And if she's not here, we'll look tomorrow." Samantha told the young girl. Genny nodded and grabbed her teddy bear off of the couch. Krystal left the apartment and Samantha was in the apartment with Genny.
'Mom…and now Marcus…' Samantha closed her eyes and bit her bottom lip. 'Don't cry in front of Genny. Pull it together. C'mon, Sam.' Samantha thought as she took a deep breath as she opened her eyes. When she did, she saw a set of old VHS tapes she had from her childhood in a case next to the TV and a smile appeared on her face.
"Hey, Genny…want to watch some cartoons?" Samantha asked.
"Will you watch them with me?" Genny asked.
"Yeah. I'll watch them with you. Let's see what we have." She pulled and picked one and tried looking for one that Genny might like. Samantha finally came across one that warmed her heart.
"I haven't seen this since I was a little girl…this'll be perfect." Samantha whispered as she put in the tape.
"What are we watching?" Genny asked as she sat on the couch.
"I used to watch this when I was your age."
"Really?" Genny asked with joy in her voice.
"I loved these when I was little. I bet you'll like them too." Samantha sat on the couch and Genny moved right next to Samantha.
"Look! Up in the sky!" One character said on the TV.
"It's an eggplant!"
"It's a meatball!"
"It's-"
"It is I, SUP…ER GROVER! And I am cute, too!"
"Grover!" Genny exclaimed with excitement. "I like Elmo and Big Bird and Grover." She informed Samantha.
"These were my favorite cartoons when I was a little girl." Samantha smiled as the two continued to watch 'The Exciting Adventures of Super-Grover.' After watching a few episodes, Samantha decided to make dinner for the young girl. Genny yawned and stretched before rubbing her eyes.
"Did you like that, Genny?" She asked.
"Yeah!" Genny said with a smile. "Grover is funny."
"He's an adorable monster, isn't he?" Samantha walked into the kitchen and Genny followed her shortly after.
"Are you hungry?" Samantha asked while she poured a can of soup into a pot. Genny licked her lips as Krystal opened the door.
"Sam?" She called for her daughter-in-law.
"In the kitchen." Samantha picked Genny up and sat her in the nearest chair. Krystal came into the kitchen and grabbed her hand.
"How are you, darling?" She asked.
"Better. I…ah…haven't thought about…you know…"
"Don't say it. What have you two been doing all day?" Krystal asked.
"We stumbled upon some old cartoons. The exciting adventures of Super-Grover, Big Bird brings spring to Sesame Street, you know, those old classics."
"Super Grover was flying and he hit a wall and went…" Genny made an explosion sound effect as her hands reached up towards the roof before laughing.
"I love her laugh." Krystal chuckled. "Anyway, I'm afraid I've got some bad news. Pigma is still at large…" Hearing that made Samantha's heart sink. "…And Marcus is nowhere to be found."
"Well…" Samantha cleared her throat and continued stirring the pot of soup.
"And there isn't any laguz on Corneria. I'm afraid Genny's parents may not be here or-"
"Please don't say it." Samantha said. "I'm barely hanging on right now. If you tell me her parents are…" Samantha gulped hard and held back tears. "Krystal, there's something I need to tell you." Samantha continued cooking and explained her dream to her mother in law. She told her about the red door, and the door that she saw earlier in the day, and told her what she had planned.
"So you think that door will take you…where you need to go?" Krystal asked as Samantha poured the soup into a bowl.
"I do." She moved the bowl in front of Genny. Genny was about to eat when held up her hand.
"Careful, honey. It's really hot. You have to blow on it." Samantha took a spoonful of soup in her bowl and showed Genny how to cool down the soup. Genny tried to do it herself, but she blew too hard and the soup blew off the spoon. She tried again and the same result. Genny became upset and folded her arms out of frustration.
"Here, let me help." Samantha said as she blew the contents of her soup before holding it up to her. Genny opened her mouth and Samantha put the spoon in her mouth as she began eating.
"Mmmmmm!" Genny rubbed her stomach and smiled to show her approval of the soup.
"Do you think that's how Genny got here? Do you think she her parents helped her through one of these red doors?"
"I don't know." Samantha ate a spoonful of soup before helping cool Genny's soup. "It's possible, I guess. But where does the one I saw lead to? I don't even know if it's safe."
"We'll think of something tomorrow. Right now, it's time for bed." Krystal said as Samantha and Genny finished their food and handed the dishes to Krystal. "Give her a bath, take a shower, and then get some rest. We'll figure out what to do tomorrow." Samantha picked the little girl up and washed her once more. After drying and putting some pajamas on the young girl, she took her shower.
'Should I go? Tonight? Tomorrow? What's the risk? Where does it lead?' Samantha decided that she couldn't answer those questions right now and finished her shower. She dried off and got into her pj's before leaving the bathroom.
"We'll answer those questions tomorrow." Krystal said as she sat on the edge of her bed and was reading a book to the young girl tucked into Samantha's bed.
"You read my mind?" She asked.
"I sensed your worries. I know you're scared and I know you feel lost. I will help you through this. But please…stay the night." Krystal said calmly. "Genny's already tucked in. Are you going to deny her a good night's rest?" Krystal asked. Samantha looked at the young girl with her teddy bear next to her and her gorgeous brown eyes looking at her.
"No…No that would be too much for her. Let me grab a pillow and-"
"I've set it on the couch." Krystal smiled. "You'll be fine, dear. You've babysat for Lucia and Bastian if I recall. You'll take care of this young girl and it's not much different." Krystal said with a warm smile. "You're great with kids, Sam." Krystal stood up and walked towards the princess. "I'll stop by tomorrow morning. Just wait for me to come get you."
"Goodnight Krystal." Samantha said quietly as Krystal gave her daughter-in-law one last hug.
"Goodnight Samantha." Krystal waved goodbye to the young girl and Krystal plugged in a nightlight before turning off the light.
"If you need anything, just call for me…ok sweetie?" Samantha said and the girl nodded.
"Night Sam." Genny said as she closed her eyes. Samantha left the door open and started getting comfortable on the couch when she heard Genny call for her.
"Sam…?" Genny called. Samantha got up and walked back into her bedroom.
"Yes, Genny?"
"Can I have some water?" She asked. Samantha nodded and went to get her a small glass of water. She sat on the edge of the bed and handed Genny the small cup.
"Mommy was scared…" Genny said as she took a sip. "Mommy was mad at me…" Her eyes started to water. "Mommy yelled at me."
"Do you remember what Mommy said?" Samantha asked, but Genny shook her head.
"There were the scary people." Genny started crying. "I miss mommy…" Samantha's heart began breaking again. Genny was just a little girl; scared and alone on a planet she knows nothing about.
"Don't worry. I'll find your mommy and you can be happy again."
"Promise?" Genny asked.
"I promise." Samantha said with a warm smile as she took the cup back. "Now, let's close our eyes and get some sleep." Genny closed her eyes once again and Samantha walked to the couch once again. But before she could tuck herself in, she heard Genny call her once more.
"Sam…?" Samantha sighed and walked back into the room.
"What's wrong, Genny?"
"What about the monsters?" She pointed to the closet. Samantha flipped on the light and opened the closet.
"No monsters in here." She got on her hands and knees and looked under the bed. "No monsters under the bed. You're safe."
"Ok." Genny said softly as Samantha flipped the switch and before she left the room…
"Sam…?" Samantha quietly sighed before turning around.
"Yeah?" She asked with a kind tone.
"Can you stay with me?" Genny asked and Samantha was taken back. She had just met this girl and now, it seems that she is the only one she completely trusts.
"In here?" Samantha asked Genny as she nodded. Genny pulled up the blanket and move away to make room for Samantha in the big bed.
'Just until she falls asleep.' Samantha thought as she crawled into the bed with Genny.
"I'll stay until you-" Genny moved back towards Samantha and snuggled next to the princess and quickly fell asleep. Samantha realized that this girl chose to trust her and there was no way she could leave tonight. She was this girl's protector and she had to bring her home.
'Find her parents and then go home. That's the plan.' Samantha thought as she closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep.