Well it has been literally YEARS since I've posted anything new. Life has most certainly gotten away from me, but I do want to thank everyone who still favorites my stuff. I do get those alerts and I appreciate every one of them. (Especially since now, I re-read some early stuff and I cringe, haha) But I've been in a bit more of a creative mood and have rewritten some old stuff and written some new stuff. I hope you'll continue to enjoy, good people!

Viridian Dawn: Escaping the Shadows

Luigi was in his favorite place, he was strolling down the Hero's Corridor of the Mushroom Kingdom's Castle. The hall filled to the brim with medals, trophies, and photos of his slightly older twin brother and the nation's most celebrated hero. Luigi looked upon the many accolades fondly. He wanted so much to be just like the man in those photos; to be that brave, that strong, that well-loved. Luigi's always been different. Where Mario would never shy from a challenge, Luigi was crippled with fear. Whenever Mario entered the room, it was as though Luigi ceased to matter at all. But he never begrudged his brother this. In fact, he was Mario's biggest fan. His attachment and devotion to his brother was admirable, and respectful...and completely undeserved.

Bowser tiredly stomped around his castle. He'd just suffered another defeat at the hands of that wretched plumber and was currently recuperating. His spiky head filling with ideas and plans for his next siege. He was going to reclaim what was taken from him so long ago. He'd never stop until they atoned for their sins.

It was a normal day in the city of Koopatropolis, the capital of Vulcanria and royal capital of the Koopa Empire. The citizens were shuffling through the streets and pipes, blending into one large sea of inhabitants. Suddenly, a large explosion shattered the peace. Chaos erupted in the streets as balls of fire shot out in every direction. A figure emerged from the smoke and charred remains of buildings. His chestnut hair sharply contrasting his stark white outfit. He looked around at the populace as the scattered away from him and began to smirk.

"Oh, good morning, Luigi!" Toad greeted as he walked by the green clad man. "Just the man I needed to see! Is your brother around?"

Luigi's excitement faltered a bit when he'd realized the only reason he was being sought out was for Mario...again, but he pushed those thoughts aside once more.

"No, he's been gone for about a month now. He's off training for his next encounter with Bowser. I haven't heard from him since he left."

"Oh, that's a shame. The Princess requested an audience with him. She has something of great importance to discuss with him, apparently."

"Well, when he returns, I'll be sure to pass that message along."

"Could you? That'd be great! Thanks!" With that he happily scurried away with no further inquiries for the mustached Italian man. Luigi just turned back to the pictures and heaved a heavy sigh.

Princess Peach paced in her chambers waiting for her page to complete his mission. When Toad entered she rushed to him.

"Did you find him?!"

"No, your Majesty, but I did speak with his brother and was informed that he's currently off training for Bowser's next attack."

"Oh of all the times to not be here!" she whispered worriedly.

"Is there something the matter, Milady? We could get Luigi to handle whatever is bothering y-"

"NO! ...I mean, no. Let's not involve him. He doesn't have the skill or the...bravery to fulfill this task. We must hope for Mario's arrival to be soon."

"King Bowser!" his minion, Ray, burst into his chambers and screamed searching for the demonic monarch. "Sire, We're under attack!"

"WHAT?!" he roared.

"Approximately two hours ago, Mario was seen dashing through several of our worlds causing many deaths and much destruction. He was last seen in downtown Koopatropolis and was heading in our direction."

"Launching an unwarranted attack...they must have discovered my current project. Argh! I will deal with this myself. Tell the Royal Guard the Operation BJ is to be guarded at all costs. I will not tolerate failure."

"Yes, Your Majesty."

With that, Bowser stalked off towards the nearest transport pipe.