A/N: Short chapter alert. Sorry everyone! X( I've been wanting to write original stuff as of late (but that doesn't mean I've lost intrest in my fanfictions, I'll still update regularly!) But you'll just have to cope with short chapters. Besides, short is good, you know? Its easier to read in one setting.

On a side note, guess what I finally played? CHRONO CROSS!!! I've been dying to play Chrono Cross ever since I beat Chrono Trigger, one of my favorite games. I must say, I was overly impressed. The muisc is superb and inspiring, it makes me just want to compose! Which I did.

Anyway, here ya go. Try to enjoy it.

CHAPTER SEVEN: MAGIC ENERGY

"Welcome back, Mario and Luigi."

The two brothers were once again standing in the dark house. It was lit only by a pale gleam from a candle, which was inside an orb of blue glass, causing the entire room to seem blue. They were in a somber mood already, and it was only worsened by the mood of the building.

"Would you like to have a lesson?"

"Yes. Please. I have some money, if you want..." Mario began to reach into his pocket, but Merlon stopped him by raising a hand in protest.

"No, no, I don't want any of that. You deserve a million lessons in magic to repay you for the millions of deeds you have done the Mushroom Kingdom. I will gladly teach you. Please, have a seat."

Mario was the first to sit on a nice rug in the lone, round room, followed by Luigi who sat next to him. He nervously began to stroke his mustache as he watched Merlon, wondering what this would be like.

"As you may know, there are two kinds of magic in this world... light magic, and dark magic. One who weilds the power of the Light cannot use Dark magic. This does not mean that those who weild the Light magic cannot make mistakes- no one is perfect. But magic is governed by the user's choices. Once it sees you as a follower of Light it will never abandon that Light within you. You cannot use Dark magic, and this is a good thing.

"Dark magic is a demented form of light magic. In the beginning of time, as the world came into existence, all magic was light. That is, all magic, until it was seized by a being who had an evil heart. He began to teach his friends what darkness was, and they embraced it, not knowing that darkness is a curse, not an aid. Thus it began to spread, and evil has since been prevalent.

"Everyone is born into this world as a wielder of darkness... but by their actions, and their heart, they can become a user of light, and be forever saved from the darkness that lurks in the world. Sadly, many people are beginning to forget what magic is, but that does not mean they are not a follower of the Light.

"You two are users of the Light. But you must be trained, you must learn how to use your gifts and bring your talents to new heights. Now, then, is there a question?"

"Yes..." Luigi spoke, "how strong is Light Magic?"

"Much stronger then Dark Magic, MUCH stronger. Dark and Light magic are not exact opposite forces. Darkness is just a demented, twisted version of Light, a much weaker version. But, they can still prevail over the Light, if the Light gives up hope and courage.

"Now, if you truly want to learn magic to its fullest, you must first learn how exactly it is used. Everyone is different. Mario, what have you found about your powers?"

Mario thought for a moment, then spoke, "When I use magic... my body heat is exchanged for a fireball in my hands... I become cold, but I can create a fireball..."

"Yes, this is basic projectile magic. Your light magic is superior to darkness. Now, how about you, Luigi?"

"I become a bit more tired and exhausted... but I can form a lightning bolt." He said.

"So, you exchange physical energy for projectile energy. Interesting..." The old man thought for a moment, then said, "there are other types of magic, types that may not work this way. Did you know that there is a place in our world that is overflowing with magic? It may be easier for me to teach you if we travel there."

"What are those 'other things'?" Mario asked.

"Specifically, Illusion, Alteration, and Healing. Did you know that magic is an actual physical thing? There is not much separating magic from science. It is an actual physical matter, built of atoms. However, it is something separate from science as well. It cannot be studied or tested, because each person handles it differently.

"Magic is more abundant in other regions of the world. Specifically, there is a region in the Mushroom Kingdom called Starfall Peaks, beyond the western ocean. If we go there it will be much easier for you to learn the magic secrets I have been granted with, and you will advance much faster. Time is of the essence if Bowser is making any moves."

Luigi blinked. "Did you just say, beyond an ocean...? Why can't we just go to Shooting Star Summit? Its not far at all from the castle..."

"Because," Merlon spoke, "you may think a place like that would be flowing with magic, but it isn't as abundant as the Starfall Peaks mainly because it doesn't get very many tourists! And also, I blame my sister for using the magic in that area for her little games. It replenishes over time, but I would much rather go to an untouched facility of magic. Why, Luigi, are you afraid of water?"

Luigi blushed, "not particularly... I'm just, you know... nevermind."

Mario slapped his forehead. "Come on, Luigi! Would you rather learn magic then stay home? We need to know this stuff. Bowser could be making a move any minute now and we need to be prepared!"

Luigi nodded. "Yeah, you're right... so when do we leave, Merlon?"

"As soon as you're ready." Replied the old man, "you'll need to learn these secrets. You are beyond capable. Not very many people can handle magic as you two can. You're very special."

Luigi thanked him, too modest to say much anything else, and too dreadful of his future to think much about it. He hated boats, but at least the Western Sea wasn't as vast as the Shiver Sea. He was also dreading his life beyond that moment. Would he have any time to bond with his wife?

I hope this new threat passes soon...

Thinking about the subjects made him depressed, and he glanced at the ground, hoping for comfort. Yet, his brother did not notice his inward sufferings, and he was left to dwell in silence.