The Tomboy and The Beast

by AliceStar

Daisy is the tomboyish, clumsy yet fiery princess of Sarasaland and King Bowser is absolutely smitten. As a result chaos, turmoil and humor ensues. Why? Because things are never easy for the desert blossom. Bowsy pairing!

10. Flaming Reds: The Koopa Moon

Alice: (Valley girl voice) Like OMG Ultrra look at all the reviews! All the yummy…(licks) delicious reviews…This one's reese pieces pie flavored…(drools)

Ultrra: Hmm, well what about this review asking about the koopalings? Is it apple? Cherry? Coconut flavored?

Alice: That one's wildberry flavored! Sweet, juicy and tart all at the same time! ^_^ Omg! And Speaking of which! There's been lots of requests for the other koopalings to show up soon…well sooner than I anticipated… (worried look)

Ulttra: Well, when did you plan on having them show up?

Alice: Ummm…Well, I planned on Ludwig showing up next chapter and the others wouldn't show up until…three more chapters? XD Is that too long?

Ultrra: (shrugs) I dunno…

Alice: Also (Looks at reviewers) Do you guys know the koopalings chronological order? XD

Ultrra: Like who came first, second, third…?

Alice: Exactly! I know Ludwig is the oldest and Bowser Junior is the youngest…So does anyone know who's second oldest…third? Fourth, fifth? All the way down to Junior? XD

Ultrra: I just knew Junior was the youngest…If you reviewers know, help Ms. Starr out a bit! ;)

Alice: Another thing (claps hands together)…As we all know, I AliceStar of Fanfiction, DESPISE OCs! But something even more evil is the OC who is a MARY SUE! Argh! I just get a headache…I have seen some Mary Sues, boy have I seen some amazingly ridiculous Mary Sues! It grinds my gears! XD

Ultrra: (Smirk) Which Mary Sue are you talking about? There's exhibit A and exhibit B.

Alice: (Whispers in disgust) There's TWO kinds of…Mary Sue! O_x

Ultrra: Hellz yeah!

Alice: The world is gonna end soon…

Ultrra: Well there's exhibit A who's 'perfect'. Like she's ridiculously hot without trying, no makeup, no working out but she's still model status. Also every guy character wants her, she has a beautiful singing voice without any training and has random ass wings or something in a fanfiction universe where they're not commonplace and—

Alice: AHHHHH! MAKE IT STOP! _

Ultrra: LOL! XD

Alice: U_U Ugh…

Ultrra: And exhibit B is the 'everything bad happens to me OC, so you gotta like me by default.'

Alice: Huh? O_O I've never seen a Mary Sue like that…

Ultrra: This Mary Sue grinds my gears worse than A. 'Cause the story after awhile, gets so bad that you want—yes want the OC to fail/die/burn/break/snap/get thrown off the Golden Gate bridge.

Alice: UltrraShaddow! O_O That's a bit harsh don't you think!

Ultrra: No it's not at all! U_U In a story with Exhibit B any and everything bad that can happen to the OC WILL happen to the OC! It's like a pity party that you're invited to!

Alice: So Exhibit B is a Mary Sue because…bad stuff happens? I thought Mary Sues had like…good stuff only happen?

Ultrra: Ohohoho no! Exhibit B has bad things happen to her again and again and again and again. You like get sick of it!

Alice: XD

Ultrra: It's like this; exhibit B will lose her job as a stripper and she's only a stripper because her parents died inside an exploding elephant when she was ten, wait five is more drastic. But what's sad is that exhibit B's aunt and uncle—her sole caretakers—hate her because they're 'jealous' of her beauty and pazazz.

So after her aunt and uncle kicked her out, she became a stripper because she was breathtakingly beautiful and it was the only, most clichéd thing for her to do. And Exhibit B has to be pretty or we, as an audience won't care.

So while Exhibit B is forced to be a stripper—the most coveted, wanted stripper—she still has a heart of gold. And it's one of the friggin' canon character's jobs to 'save her.' (Turns to nearest wall and bangs head) Exhibit B is the WORST Mary Sue EVER!

Alice: (laughing) XD It sounds funny Ultrra! I'd want to read a story just to get that!

Ultrra: (Stops) I SWEAR to you that I have read stories like this! This isn't something I could make up! Like Exhibit B wouldn't be bad if there was some balance to all the bad stuff happening…

Alice: (Sighs) Well hmm…okay I don't hate OCs but most just aren't well done. :/ Therefore I try my best to make them none Mary Sues! XD Lol! Also in the Mario universe, like we don't know any backdrop on the characters. We never meet Daisy's parents…And I think a romantic story in which a princess doesn't involve her parents would be unrealistic. (Sighs) So that's really why I had to create her dad…and grandmother when she shows up! ^_^

Ultrra: So now that we kinda digressed, what where you saying about the Koopalings?

Alice: XD Oh yeah! Everyone wants to know when they show up and hope for no OCing/Mary Sueing their characters. O_O I guess I just never read enough stories with the koopalings to see that Lemmy acts like this or Roy acts like that. Hmm…I know that everyone will like/appreciate how I wrote Ludwig though! I haven't seen his character written like this before! ^_^ Haha!

Ultrra: Also one dessert review asked 'When will Daisy reciprocate Bowser's feelings!'

Alice: LOL! Oh yeeeeeah! XD Okay on a scale of 1-10, 10 being super obvious, I think Bowser's 'come-ons' to Daisy are a 12! Lol! XD

Ultrra: (snorts) Like a 13…

Alice: (smirks) But since we get to see all of Daisy's vulnerabilities we can see how even in the face of obvious come-ons, she doesn't take him seriously. Also, has someone ever said, 'Wow you look nice today?' And you're like 'Thank you,' but totally don't believe it? Their relationship right now is like that! X)

Ultrra: It's obvious to me Bowser's after her but to a tomboy who is unused to such direct affection, she's clueless?

Alice: Yes! Exactly! XD

Ultrra: So the million dollar question is…will romantic progress ever be made!

Alice: You know, I have read stories where two characters fall in love on…chapter three XD lol! (Whispers) And then do stuff before like chapter five! O_O Nooo! Real love shouldn't be rushed! So you all must be patient because their budding affections will have to go through way more challenges. ^_^ Like this chapter O_O But on another note, I think a big hallmark will be made this chapter! ^_^

Ultrra: Ooh! Sounds interesting!

Alice: Haha! Also later in this chapter, Bowser will tell Daisy about some of his koopa culture come-ons! Lol! You can go back in the earlier chapters to see how many times King Bowwy's 'come-on to her! XD Lol! Or you can look for it in this chapter and future ones! XP Anyways do enjoy!

---

Daisy is the tomboyish, clumsy yet fiery princess of Sarasaland and King Bowser is absolutely smitten. As a result chaos, turmoil and humor ensues. Why? Because things are never easy for the desert blossom.

oOoOoOo Tomboy and The Beast oOoOoOo

---

It was a whopping one hundred and ten degrees in Sarasaland and there was no way I was going out into that insanity. So to avoid sunburn, cancer and death I dodged the heat like the plague. I remained indoors sitting at my desk and leafing through penpal mail.

I received my usual mail from Wendy, Junior, Toadette, Lulu, and interestingly enough a letter from Mario. Wendy's letters complained about her lack of a love-life at her all girls' school and the world-ending shortage of cute boys in her life.

Blah, blah, blah.

Then there were the beauty tips included so I could, 'keep up my new prettiness.' Junior's letter was about his misadventures in school and he included another darling doodling of Me, Bowser and himself.

I laughed at Junior's artwork. This time it was a picture of us playing soccer together. The stick-figure Bowser had furrowed red burrows, yet he was smiling and showing off sharp teeth.

Doodle-Bowser held 'me'. My character had rosy pink circles for cheeks, red lips and blue dots with eyelashes. I framed the picture and set it on my wall. There was a second drawing with him and...Toadette?

Both stick figures held hands with misshapen hearts floating around their heads. I laughed; Junior's letter begged me to send the picture to Toadette. Speaking of the heartthrob herself, Toadette's letter asked about my life in the palace.

She told me how pretty I looked at the soccer game and apologized for how rude their team had been that game; I shook my head, I wasn't even mad at Toadette! She's such a sweetie. And I all but laughed when her letter asked about Junior.

So there was something going on between the two little cuties eh? Bowchikabowow. Well three letters down and two to go.

Luigi's letter was sweet stating I 'blew him away' at the soccer game. In the letter he referred to me as 'The mysterious goddess'. He claimed during half the game he was too busy looking—no drooling over me to concentrate.

He was angry about Mario's slide-tackle and so was the rest of the Mushroom Magic. Luigi's letter finished by begging me to visit the pipehouse. I'll have to do just that too; Luigi's ravioli was to die for! And their Italian soda they had imported was sweet and delicious.

The next letter was from Mario. Heh, this ought to be interesting. He was deeply apologetic about the slide-tackle. That's great but my knee still had to be iced every night before bed. Granted I was off crutches but I could still feel its unhealed soreness.

He apologized again and again for losing his head and still wanted to be my 'bro' and I'd still be his 'sis'. He let it be known Peach was furious and he was 'hot water' with her.

I lowered his letter and grinned to myself; it was hard to imagine Peach angry at someone but I bet it was friggin' scary when she was! Peach was long-tempered and good natured; not even having her Kingdom invaded angered her. I could recall one time when I've ever seen her angry and it was like the apocalypse! Her blue eyes blazed a hellish red and her manicured smile had nothing but fangs and sharp incisors.

Oh yeah, I'd rather cross Bowser than Peach. She was Satan in red heels when she was pissed...

Hmm.

After writing back to all my pen pals, I searched through my mail bag and frowned; where was Bowser's usual letter he would have sent by now? We both used the Sneaksheet to write funny little tidbits to each other throughout the week but receiving and sending mail was always more fun because you could open it!

Halfway through the week he would send letters or notes inquiring when I'd arrive for our weekly visits. That way he could have his chefs prepare dinner and he'd have some idea when he should clear his schedule for my arrival.

I tapped my chin thoughtfully; I wonder if something happened in the Darklands? Or was he super busy this week? I haven't heard from him all week.

Hmm, how weird...

A toad stuck his head in my room, "Princess? The emperor requests to see you before your departure."

"Ah, thank you."

I'm nearly done packing so I can just finish after father speaks to me. I looked at myself in my vanity and smiled. After spending so much time at Bowser's castle, wearing my yellow royal gown was starting to feel foreign.

I walked through the hallways until I reached the throne room. A servant toad opened the door and bowed. I gave a curtsy and walked in. Looking effortlessly sophisticated, Emperor Sakuro was ever the epitome of grace. With his chin propped up by his arm, Father watched me approach. Under his watchful eye, I nearly stumbled and ate it.

He has a really piercing stare. Like he's looking into your sooooul.

I stopped, curtsied and sat daintily. A Sarasalandian princess should weigh next to nothing and therefore shouldn't make a sound. Father's expression remained stagnant but he did fold his hands together, "Princess, soon you shall leave for your business in the Darklands."

"Yes Emperor."

"Before then, we of the Sarasaland Court would like to address our great pleasure. We are pleased with your progress."

I looked up surprised, "Heh?"

Although his face was completely neutral, his ice-blue eyes were brighter, "I have been reviewing the kingdom's financial progress with the council and we are quite satisfied with the new growth to our economy."

I smiled, "Really?"

"Indeed princess," father unraveled a scroll, "Your work has been exceptional. In your few weeks as an envoy to the Darklands, we have established three new large irrigation systems and opened several new trade routes in at least five kingdoms."

Yahoo! Go Daisy! Go Daisy!

"It is my greatest pleasure to serve our kingdom," I spoke softly.

On the inside I was turning flips and popping off champagne bottles.

Father looked up and neatly closed the scroll, "I am proud of the sacrifice you are making for your kingdom."

I blushed hard; all this praise was overwhelming. Was my father, the stern Emperor Sakuro complimenting me? It was unreal. Just then he rose from his seat and walked over. A strong hand was set on my shoulder.

The lightest vestiges of a real smile appeared on his face, "As your emperor I am pleased with the effort and dedication you have shown, however as your father I am honored with the level of maturity and grace you have shown."

"Father…" I whispered, truly touched by such strong words.

"Throughout your journeys to the Darklands I have requested King Koopa to keep me up to date with the commerce proceedings," father spoke, "And each week I have received a detailed report of your workmanship."

"Truly?"

Stars, what could he say!? 'One day we went to a carnival and played games together'!? Not really worthy of the praise Father's rewarding me with...

"Yes and I have read King Bowser's letters about your trade dealings and the way he describes your work ethic…" Father shook his head, dark sheet of fringe obscuring his face in the process.

His glacial blue eyes tightened as he stared at me, "It is astounding. It seems the sovereign of the Darklands is…infatuated with you. He speaks of how much of a wonder you are and how you've made him believe in the good of humankind again."

I smiled; Did Bowser really feel that way?

Father's expression tightened, "Sometimes I wonder myself if Lord Bowser is…indeed enamored with my daughter...?"

Father stared at me intensely, eyes critically scanning the length of my face. I blinked, stunned; was he trying to force an answer from me!?

W-Why was he looking at me like that!? Bowser doesn't like me!

I blushed under his severe stare, "K-King Bowser...liking me!? N-No of course not father! That's ridiculous!"

Father stared for a moment longer before reclining comfortably into his throne. The unusual intensity was gone and he seemed settled, "Very well then. Please continue your admirable work my child."

Still shaken, I bobbed my head stupidly, "Y-Yes father..."

"I also have one more matter to speak of. In three weeks time the council and I thought it would be best to present our princess properly to the rest of the world. We shall hold a Sumanni as an awakening for you."

I gasped; I was going to have a Sumanni?! It was a gorgeous Sarasaland ceremony that included dance, food and merriment to celebrate when a girl became a woman. In my case it would indicate my availability for marriage.

I watched as my father's long, elegant sovereign robes glided past, "That is one weekend that I as well as your kingdom, will need our princess present. The council will look into inviting every eligible prince, duke, earl, archduke, marquis, lord and royal within the nearest twenty kingdoms. Your Summani shall be a celebration remembered for the ages."

I bit my lip, "…Father?"

"Yes?" he spun to face me. He was already halfway across the room and I hadn't even known it. He was always so quiet; quite my opposite really.

"Am…I allowed to invite his majesty King Bowser?"

I sucked in a breath when father's eyes sharpened, "In a gesture of good faith, as new allies it's imperative to have him present."

Father was silent before he spoke, "In a gesture of goodwill? You think by inviting the King Bowser, we will present ourselves as more serious allies, is this your logic?"

"Uh…Yes?"

"Hmm," he turned and started to leave the room, "That is well then. I shall alert the council to prepare an invite for King Bowser…It's quite interesting how…close you two have become in such a short time…"

As Father swept out of the room like a breath of fresh air, I grinned. I threw celebratory punches in the air. Woohoo! Not only did I receive praise from Father but he agreed to let Bowser come! I better get ready to head out to the Darklands! The second I was sure Father was out of hearing range I ran through the hall and darted into my room.

I continued to pack, mulling over my thoughts. I'm surprised Bowser hadn't all but demanded I come to his castle. Hmm, was something going on at his castle?

Someone rapped on the door to my room, "Princess Daisy? Are you present?"

Mentally I said every single curse word I knew; outside my door was a noble woman named Angora. She was easiest described as thin and frail-looking like most noble women who ate ridiculous diets to stay alarmingly skinny. She had sharp feline features and wore complimentary makeup that stood out against her pallor complexion.

Although she was past her years of youth, Lady Angora was still attractive. In her maidenhood she had been beautiful in the likeness of a fairy or an elf; tall and pale with sharp, angular features and stunning icy eyes.

And just like the councilman Salini, she was another person I couldn't stand. People always generalized that no one could hurt a woman the way man can but I vehemently object. Angora was one of the highest ranking Sarasalandian noble women and that meant she groomed me into the princess I was.

Born the daughter of a wealthy archduke, she was ever the proper lady and became a masterful harp player, pianist and cellist. As the embodiment of all these things feminine, it was Angora who had been hand-selected to raise me into becoming 'a proper Sarasalandian princess'.

I should say the term of becoming a 'proper Sarasalandian princess' simply meant that I would be subjected to all kinds of levels of hell. Even though I had always been scrawny as a child, being a Sarasalandian princess meant I had to appear ultra-thin and I was never allowed to eat my fill.

My thirteenth birthday was when Angora deemed me old enough to start learning 'proper ladylike behavior.' From that point on I wasn't allowed to play outside save for sports matches. I would sit beside her, drinking fruit teas and consuming tart pastries that wouldn't ruin a lady's figure.

Grooming was probably the lowest of the low. It was self-effacing how we would spend too many hours trying to correct all of my 'natural erroneous' traits. For hours a chambermaid would tug at my hair, using chemicals and herbs to straighten my hair into submission all the while another servant would use creams and potions to attempt lightening my naturally dusky complexion.

And all the while I went through hell, trying to be transformed into this girl I wasn't, Angora had watched it all with a calculating silence. Every magazine I looked at was a beauty magazine that celebrated women who looked nothing like me; tall, skinny and compiled with miles of fair flaxen hair and skin like a glass of milk.

In the process of this transformation, Angora would sigh dramatically and wonder what ever could she do to beautify such an unlucky girl like me? Perhaps if I had been born with my father's regal complexion I could be beautiful.

Another rap on the door followed and with a sigh I replied, "Come in."

Elegant, tall, and slim Angora floated into the room like a wintry breeze. In a room embellished in golds, creams, and oranges, she stood out in her blue dress like a lily among the roses. After surveying my room, her cat-like eyes honed in, scanning me from head to toe for any kind of blemishes.

Once she saw I was to her standard, she must have remembered to greet me, "Morning Princess."

"Good morning Lady Angora."

"It is a good one, isn't it? I've been informed you were going to visit the illustrious King Bowser yet again."

"I usually travel to the Darklands on Fridays."

"Well met. However while visiting those of a different culture, you must represent Sarasaland well. Now allow me to see what clothing you plan on wearing."

Well, I know what's not going to go well…

I sighed, watching as she glided over to my suitcase. I had nothing packed but plain tank tops, shorts, and the most unimpressive underwear like sports bras. Angora opened the suitcase and scanned the items wordlessly.

To be honest she did well to hide her disapproval at my clothes selection; the only thing that gave her away was the slight twitch of her upper lip. I watched as her perfectly manicured hands closed the suitcase before she turned to me.

Angora pinched the bridge of her nose and released an exasperated sigh, "How would I know you would try such a thing!? Princess unless you plan on playing nothing but sweaty sports then you are quite ill-prepared. We must dazzle such an important ally for Sarasaland's future, we must enchant them. And yet you dress to...play a round of tennis."

I opened my mouth but the futility of it was too obvious. No matter how much I argued, Angora would have her claws in all of my business.

"From now on I shall personally see to it that your luggage is stocked with nothing but the finest of your wardrobe. As you have done your best obtaining the Darklands as an ally then I shall do my best to make you shimmer like a star. Now you shall wait here, luckily I have a couple of stylists in my back pocket and we shall make you the epitome of glamour."

What she failed to inform me was that 'shimmering like a star' required several laborious hours of hair-pulling, makeup painting and dress fitting. It wasn't too soon when I finalized plans to head to the Darklands. I was garbed in a deep, ruby-red dress and hair done in an up-do that Angora said would 'distract the king into forgetting what's good for them'.

As I traveled through the hallways, the clanking of unreasonable stilettos filled the lingering silence. I left my room with Firefly, whose leaves fluttered happily as I picked him up and carried him in my arms, "Ready to skidoo Firefly?"

Firefly squealed happily, humming merrily as we traveled the hallway. The travel crew packed my things in the carriage as I fed Firefly his plant formula. Fiery happily fed from the bottle, downing the plant food mixture as if it would disappear within seconds.

"Slow down Fiery," I chuckled, patting his stem, "You'll make yourself sick like that."

---

My carriage made good time and just as we were arriving outside of the palace gates, Kammy materialized out of thin air. I grinned and in the midst of waving a greeting, the unsettled look on her face made me freeze, "Princess Daisy! What are you doin—ahem—my ladyship, although it is rather nice to see you I'm afraid your arrival is rather…inconvenient for his nastiness."

I frowned, a bit hurt, "What? How so?"

"Umm," Kammy looked away as if thinking; wait a minute what's going on here? Kammy—who was always so rehearsed and professional in everything she did— was suddenly bumbling around on her words like an idiot.

My expression tightened, "What's wrong with Bowser? If he doesn't want me to visit then he must be dying."

Kammy blinked before she laughed wildly, "A-Absolutely nothing! His Lordship is just peachy. He is…urm, in the middle of business? Ha! Yes, he is in the middle of business!"

"He's always busy when I come over and that doesn't stop him from letting me in the castle," I whiffed, "You really suck at lying."

Kammy turned away to mutter something disparaging under her breath before facing me again, "Princess! You can't see him because the king is simply…not...himself," she replied slowly.

I frowned with worry, "Aww, is Bowwy sick? I'd be more than happy to help the staff make him a hearty stew! We'll have him back on his feet in no time! Is Junior home this weekend? I'll teach him how to make a Sarasaland stew! Nice and spicy."

Grinning down at Firefly, I tickled his stem. The fire flower giggled, "Spicy stew sounds yummy, huh Fiery?"

Kammy shook her head, "For a change his lordship requested for Prince Bowser Junior to remain at his school."

What?

Ever since I've been coming over, Bowser has demanded Junior to return home every Friday. You know if I didn't know better, I would think Bowser could be using Junior as leverage to get on my good side…

Nah, that can't be…

"So Bowser isn't sick?"

"Not quite…you see," she sighed and muttered to herself, "You would want one of them. This would be so much easier to explain to a Koopa girl. She'd know what to expect…"

"…Huh?"

"Er nothing, just speaking to myself," she laughed nervously, "Ahem! Well I suppose I can't turn you away after a long day's travel. I'll have the staff bring in your luggage."

Okay so I've decided two things; one, Kammy is a terrible liar and secondly something was going on. I rose out of the carriage, holding Firefly in hand. My garnet-red dress shone like a gem under the moon's bright glow.

Kammy raised her eyebrow ridges in surprise, "May I add by the way, I think you look marvelous if not a bit overdone."

Blushing, I nodded my head, "Thank you, a lady of the court thought I should dress...like an appropriate delegate."

"Odd, I'm quite positive King Bowser specified his preference of causal dress."

I sighed, "He did but Lady Angora is quite…stubborn on wishing me to be the 'perfect lady'."

"Ah I see..." Something told me Kammy actually didn't.

Instead of entering the castle through the main entrance, Kammy motioned to follow through a side entry point I had never known existed. Okay there was something definitely up. It was as if she was trying to hide my very presence here…

"Come, come along now Miss Daisy," Kammy hurriedly shooed me along, "We must make haste. Now, come."

We hustled, all but jogging through the halls—the lesser employed halls I noted—as we continued on this secretive expedition. My building curiosity gnawed savagely as I tried to puzzle together as many scenarios as to why Kammy was being so enigmatic. I tried to fire off a round of well-aimed inquiries but she was adamant about keeping me ignorant of the situation. As we navigated through another dark, dim hallway manufactured of crumbling stone and mortar, one of the large stone doors unbolted with a rattling rasp and Kammy inhaled sharply as…

Kamek appeared.

His appearance must have been a deep relief as Kammy released a sigh of reprieve and visibly relaxed. The blue-clad Magikoopa halted, raising both eyebrow ridges when he saw us, "Lady Daisy? Well may I say first off hello and it's a delight to see you. Now then what are you doing here?"

I frowned, peering between the two MagiKoopa incredulously; my Stars have these Koopsa forgot for the last few months or so I've been showing up here to meet with their King on business related issues!? Every single freaking Saturday and Sunday I've spent time with their King! And them too!

"Umm," I raised a skeptical eyebrow, "I'm always here Fridays. Come on Kamek you of all people should know that. Okay you know what!? I'm frustrated! What is going on here!? Like seriously!"

Kammy growled, "Kamek! We don't have time to sit here and chit-chat! Who knows when you-know-who could show up!"

I cut a sharp glare at Kammy; you know who? Who's you know who?! Kamek's face suddenly paled, "Oh Stars…We'd best get you to your room Miss Daisy."

"Why aren't you guys telling me what's going on?" I hissed as Firefly looked at us in curiosity.

I stepped passed the MagiKoopas and roughly threw the door to the next adjoining hall open. My waning patience fueled my rising ire as I snapped, "I swear when I find out what you two are hiding there shall be hell to pay! And I—ouch!"

My face bounced right off the hard plastron of a Koopa. Kammy and Kamek gasped audibly, Firefly squealed, roughly jarred from the sudden impact of my fall. I landed on my rear, seeing stars. The side of my face smarted painfully, throbbing and tender. Ugh, anyone get the license plate of that semi!?

I heard a deep snarl, "Why don't ya try to watch where the hell you're goin!?' If I was as puny as you are I wouldn't—hmm?"

I peered up and met the livid ruby reds of Bowser. He towered above, looming with a baneful presence and bared incisors. His brows were pinched over the bridge of his nose, eyes narrowed and throat glowing an ominous red-orange; if I didn't know better, I'd think he was ready to fry himself an extra spicy plate of princess!

He blinked, mind playing a quick game of catch up as he recognized me. I won't say that his expression became anymore friendly or less maleficent because if anything, his new grin was dangerous. The insidious smile slanted his glare even more as he spoke in an unusually smooth purr, "Why hello there Flower."

He extended a claw, "Hey there Bowse—Whoa!"

When I took his hand, he yanked me onto my feet with less care and decorum than usual. With a yelp I staggered, tripping over the hem of my expensive gown. I ended up smacking flush against his plastron. My arms were wrapped around his middle in something analogous to an overly-friendly hug. With a rumbling chuckle, Bowser gingerly clutched my shoulders, smoothly lifting me onto my feet and making sure I had my balance before releasing my shoulders completely. We locked gazed and as he smirked in obvious amusement, I flushed outstandingly, "Uh…Thanks."

"Falling all over yourself to get to me huh?" he growled, smiling archly.

He drew back, studying my overdone dress and makeup with clear interest. I was surprised when he growled with an approving rumble, "Damn. You look amazing. I'd howl at the moon if I was a wolf."

"Thanks," I bashfully rubbed at the back of my head, "It was Lady Angora's idea..."

I blinked, realizing he was still staring with unusually intense interest. The fervid blaze of Bowser's stare couldn't be ignored. His burning eyes were so vehement, so powerful and was he purring? He reached forward and lightly touched a clawed digit to my face.

"For a change," he growled, a lopsided smile cut across his face, "I'm with that court lady on this; you look absolutely beautiful. I could just..." this time a parlous snarl stole his voice, "devour you whole."

"Uh...?" I gulped, peering up at him cautiously, "What...?"

He began to slowly move closer, eyes blazing as a loud purr poured over me. I gasped, tilting backwards as he leaned forward with a rakish grin. Kammy and Kamek scrambled into motion, darting between us. Bowser frowned, peering at them with ebbing patience.

"Y-Your majesty?!" Kammy gulped, "I-I thought you'd have several more meetings to be in until at least night fall."

"Kammy is right for once your lordship," Kammy shot Kamek an evil eye, "How is business progressing? You should be seeing the elders of the Smokelands burrow soon."

"We're taking a break for now but I have to wonder…" Bowser narrowed his eyes just the slightest bit, "what in the world are you doing in this hallway? No one uses it at all."

"A-All the more reason to use it your Ungratefulness!" Kammy blurted out.

"Hmm, you weren't trying to hide Daisy's presence in my own castle eh hag?"

He loomed over his adviser, an ominous grin spreading across his face.

"O-Of course not sire," she did that nervous pitchy giggle again.

"Good because I could smell her from miles away," he growled deeply, slowly turning to look at me, "It's like being in a field of aromatic flowers..."

I raised an eyebrow; since when did Bowser use words like aromatic? It seemed too soft and refined of him. Or just weird.

"Er…?" Kamek looked off to the side; apparently he noticed too.

Kammy snapped to attention, "Well King Bowser, we know how busy you are so we'll leave you to your work now. I must…er…help the princess freshen up from her travels."

Bowser grinned, slowly licking his chops, "She looks perfectly delicious in my opinion."

Kamek and Kammy froze at the lingering look their king gave. Both of them seemed busy trying to communicate non-verbally. I raised an eyebrow at his weird behavior.

"Oh shut up Bowwy."

He growled, smoke rising from his mouth, "Oh I'll show you what I think of that stupid name. By the time I'm done with you, you'll be singing another tune..."

Bowser froze the moment he heard Firefly cooing, "Looks like you're taking good care of the lil guy."

The Koopa king lifted a large, meaty palm and stroked Firefly with surprising affection. Firefly soaked it all up, closing his eyes in bliss and even leaning towards Bowser's sharp claws. The baby fireflower purred happily under the king's touch. Bowser laughed with true mirth, "Look at this needy little bastard. He's kinda cute though….and—"

Bowser's snout hovered inches above my head at most. He surprised me with his next move; nearly pressing his entire maw against my red tresses when he inhaled the scent of my hair. He took a second generous exhalation and released a loud growl. I blinked, peering up. Did he just smell my hair!? I stared at him wordlessly, unsure if I should laugh or be offended.

"Mmm," he purred. When he opened his eyes, they dilated dangerously, "You smell sexy…"

I blushed, "W-What!? What is this!? Over-amorous turtle day!?"

"You want to see amorous?" he growled, grabbing my arm with a wicked grin, "Then let me show you my little desert chiffon."

I didn't know Kammy could move so fast because one moment I was firmly pressed against Bowser's plastron, peering into his boiling red eyes and wicked grin and the next, Kammy was suddenly dragging me across the palace, "W-Well! W-We'll be seeing you later Your Highness!"

"Yes now come along Lord Bowser," Kamek hovered above his ward, appearing just as frazzled as his female counterpart, "W-We must see to business now."

"Hmm," Bowser shot one last look my direction before he stomped after Kamek.

It wasn't much longer when we entered my well-furnished guestroom. I was greeted by the familiar aqua-blue adornments and subtle fragrance of freshly picked daises. Kammy looked uncharacteristically nervous as she fiddled with her scepter. I shook my head; between Kamek and Kammy's odd behavior and then Bowser's forward conduct, it was maddening not knowing what was going on here.

"Kammy what's wrong with you? Both you and Kamek have been acting awfully nervous. And Bowser...well I thought he didn't have a filter before but now...Yikes man."

Kammy sighed so hard her shoulders sagged, "Well…truthfully Miss Daisy, I've been debating whether or not I should inform you of something…"

"Yeah? Like what?"

She sighed again,"Well all right then, perhaps you ought to make yourself comfortable princess. This might take awhile."

With a shrug I moved over to my bed and took a seat. I neatly tucked Firefly onto my lap and fixed my attention on Kammy. Geesh, it was about time she told me what was going on. Everyone around here was walking on Koopa egg shells. Kammy turned to look out the window, perhaps reflecting.

"I must warn you that tonight is the Koopa moon," Kammy spoke softly, as if afraid someone might be listening in.

"Okay so what does that mean?" I looked down at Firefly and poked him in the side. Firefly cooed in response and giggled.

"It occurs once every three years," she replied, voice sounding dreamy as if she were telling a fairytale, "And because of the properties of the moon…"

I laughed, "What? Does Bowwy transform into a werewolf? A wereKoopa!?"

I chuckled at the thought of Bowser howling to the moon and licking himself. I almost broke a lung laughing at the image of Bowser with a leg raised, licking himself like a cat.

Kammy frowned, "Lady Daisy this is a serious matter! You are potentially at big risk! The moon does not make him 'transform into a wolf' it simply manifests a Koopa's desire to find a mate!"

My laughter choked off, "What?! A mate?"

Now instead of a howling Bowser, I pictured the king of Koopas at large as King Kong, crawling up the side of the empire state building. But instead of beating his chest, Bowser would probably be roaring, blowing flames as he clamped onto some blonde girl.

Probably Peach.

I crossed my arms and chuckled, "Heh, well that sucks for Peach. Is Bowser going to be trying to drag her off to his cave by her hair?"

Kammy blinked before glowering, "Oh merciful Stars you truly are dense! You silly girl, King Koopa is going to be trying to drag you off by your hair!"

"Wha?"

Me? Now my image of Bowser as King Kong altered. Instead of Bowser holding some nameless, wimpy blond, he was holding me. Yeah, if Bowser ever tried to abduct me and scale a building, I would give him the finger; none of that helpless damsel business here.

I frowned, "So what are you trying to tell me?"

"The Koopa moon is a seasonal breeding event," she adjusted her glasses in agitation, "As your people are in tune to the sun, we are in sync to the moon. Most of our emotions fluctuate unstably with the most unsound being passion, rage and desire."

She frowned deeper, "You really chose one heck of a weekend to stop on through Missy. The Koopa moon turns even the most reserved Koopa into the most savage beast!"

Taken back by her sharp tongue, I raised my hands defensively, "Gosh…I'm sorry I forgot to double check my Koopa calendar…"

Kammy sighed, "I'm sorry, it's just the moon and all…"

I twitched, "It affects you too!?"

"Not quite to the extent it affects the royal family or his majesty, but I certainly can get cranky like no one's business!"

The royal family huh? I wondered if Wendy was okay or what about cute little Junior? I frowned at the thought of them being affected terribly by this event.

"Are the princess and Junior okay?"

Kammy snorted, "Oh they're fine and away at their schools being pampered. On most Koopa moons the princess goes between bouts of extreme rage and sorrow. Junior usually has a terrible stomachache."

"Poor kids," I said softly, "I wish Junior was here so I could take care of him."

Well if I thought of the Koopa moon akin to a certain cycle that happens to most girls once a month, then I could say I know what the Koopa royal family goes through. After all it sounds like this Koopa moon thing drives them crazy as well.

"So, what am I going to do?"

"Removing you from the castle altogether would probably prove to be rather hazardous…" Kammy rubbed her chin, "The master is just a bit angrier than usual, you should be fine despite his shorter temperament."

She moved until we were nearly face to face, "But if there's ever a time you feel the king is unsafe to be around, you must hightail it out of there."

"…How bad is Bowser going to be?" I asked.

Kammy shrugged, "Each Koopa moon is different. The worst he's been was torching anyone who even looked at him funny and the best scenario was when he had a really strange craving for takeout."

The magiKoopa sighed, "Anyways the King will have meetings all night and I'm quite sure you would not mind having a meal in your room tonight do you?"

"If it keeps Bowser from going King Kong on me, then dining in is fine."

"Superb, I shall have arrangements made then. I will be no more than a moment, I will return with supper."

I beamed down at Firefly, "Well little guy, looks like it'll be just you and me tonight!"

Firefly's leaves shook happily as he nipped affectionately at my finger. I glanced out the window and towards the moon. The golden star hung in the star-speckled sky lazily. The moon didn't look any different than usual. It was a bit bigger but nothing out of the ordinary.

Koopa moon eh...?

With Kammy's return, the servants followed in tow, carrying our fragrant supper encased in sleek, silver Tupperware. They brought elegant china, sparkling silverware and a delicious petite cake for dessert. The servants worked nimbly and within moments a table was ready, the silverware was set up and together the three of us ate. While Kammy rambled on about her usual tasks around the palace, I took a mental vacation and thought about the Koopa moon.

---

It was the dead of night when I abruptly woke in a frantic cold panic. A bursting stab of boreal frost rocketed through my veins and issued my once restful slumber into full alert. I shot up, breath ragged, body racked with ghostly chills and face drenched with sweat. Though soaked in perspiration, my face was bizarrely cold to the touch. I released a second shaky, shivering breath; Stars, what's wrong with me? My stomach was in knots and I quivered from an unknown chill.

Though I wore a thin nightgown, the thick Koopa comforter should have been more than enough to keep me warm. And yet I trembled. I sat up and made my way to the bathroom on trembling, unsteady legs. I drenched my face with lukewarm faucet water, hoping to wash away the uncomfortably cold sweat and rising anxiety.

Why do I feel so unsettled, like something bad was going to happen? It was strong enough to even rouse me from sleep…Was it the Koopa moon? I peeled away the sheer curtains from the window, glancing outside. A gasp tore from my throat; the moon was massive, vivid and luminous with an eerie green luminescence, like the color of a ripe Koopa berry.

I've never seen the moon such a bizarre color before...

It was creepy, ghoulish but beautiful in a striking sort of way. Only when the pounding of my heart slowed did I decide to return to bed. I dried my face, smiling weakly at my unsettled reflection and as I went back to bed, I heard something. I glanced at Fireflly; he was deep asleep. In the darkness he glowed faintly, his radiance waning and waxing in tempo with his soft breathing.

I stepped into large, fuzzy house slippers and quietly opened my silver doors. Just as the doors rattled open, the unsettling noise grew stronger. It sounded like a low, rumbling, haunted sounding moan.

Was someone in pain?

I moved cautiously through the dark hallways, fingers sliding unsteadily across the wall for balance. Everything would have been completely pitch-dark if it wasn't for the scattered torches. I had never traveled through the palace this late at night. It seemed sinister, eerie with the way the shadows slipped and slithered under the dancing torchlight.

The towering Koopa ancestor statues that were once beautiful and unique during the day were now terrifying in the night setting; night's blanket must have played upon the imagination's fear as each of their visages morphed into something far more fierce and cruel.

I gulped, swallowing hard against the lump in my throat as I continued to aimlessly stumble through the ghoulish palace. As I slothed through the castle, the haunted moaning became louder and far more terrible than I could imagine.

I trembled, legs unsteady and hands shaking as I scaled closer and yet I knew I couldn't turn back now. I had to find out where that awful noise was from. The pained Koopa was growling, roaring in earth shattering reverberations. My brows scrunched together; was that Bowser?

The deceptively beautiful, haunting apple-green effulgence of the Koopa moon seeped through the hallways like liquid. I stopped at a stone door and took a deep breath before slipping into the brisk night. I quickly darted behind a towering fountain statue and stayed as low to the ground as possible. Boy I'm pretty sure I looked absolutely foolish like this; on my knees with my butt hiked in the air.

Chalk this up as another proud moment for the princess of Sarasaland...

I stuck my head around the corner, remaining as quiet as possible. From what I could see, Bowser was splayed on all fours, surrounded by panicky, jittery-looking staff and guards. All of them looked far too nervous tending their king as if they were expecting the worst. The Hammerbros brandished mallets and Magikoopas had their wands trained on him diligently. I realized the Magikoopa were actively pinning him to the ground with their magic, restraining him.

Some of the servants murmured soft words, others wiped away the accumulating sweat from his furrowed brows. Bowser's eyes were squeezed shut, teeth gnashed and body rattling unsteadily from labored breathing. A slick of sweat dotted his hairline as he released another soft, pained groan. Something about him looked different; his horns seemed longer, claws sharper.

A thought crossed my mind; is the Koopa's moon transforming him...?

Dark ribbons trailed down his biceps and pooled underneath him in a black river. Was that blood? Bowser grimaced; eyes closed tightly and when he turned his head, I saw a dark thread of blood leaking from the corner of his mouth. I retreated closer to the statue least he see me.

What's going on with you Bowwy?

"M-My lord, I'm so sorry we had to hurt you," was Kammy crying? I couldn't see her face since her back was to me, but her voice sounded thick with emotion.

Kamek was unusually stern-faced, "Kammy don't be ridiculous, I cast the spell. I hurt Lord Bowser. I had to stop you my liege or else..."

"I know," Bowser groaned, eyes still closed, "and I told you to do everything in your power to keep me from becoming…that. Heh, that spell actually hurt. Hell that wasn't too bad old timer; pretty good shot. I think I won't try anymore rampages at this point."

Kammy laughed throatily as she sniffled and with a wave of her wand, she procured a lace hankie. She dabbed delicately at her eyes, "You're such trouble Lord Bowser…just as your father was."

"Don't compare me to…" Bowser snarled weakly as his voice died off, "him."

"I know your lordship," Kammy softly ran a hand through his mane, with unusual warmth, "I shall never do that again."

"Good" he grunted, "Just...don't wanna be anything like that...monster."

As Kamek and Kammy continued to care for their ward, I squirmed, uncomfortable as my muscles began to ache painfully. My back was starting to protest so I sifted to lie on my belly. I froze when Bowser's head suddenly snapped up, startling the surrounding Koopa. Some of the staff toppled over from surprise as others jumped back.

Startled, Kammy and Kamek peered around to see what had bothered their ruler. Kamek frowned, "…Lord Bowser?"

I gasped when Bowser's attention quickly honed on me. Surprise lay bare on his face as he peered at me in a mixture of horror and fret. It was startling how feral his eyes were now. They seemed to be an even brighter, more malignant red and his pupils were slits like those of a serpent.

"D-Daisy...?" he breathed softly; coupled with his pained look, my heart poured out to him.

"Bowser," I whispered softly and slowly rose to my feet. I was surprised, even slightly hurt when he turned his head away. Why did his face look something akin to…shame?

He didn't have to hide anything from me…

I want to help him, just as he's helped me.

""Bowser..." I beseeched softly.

Princess?" Kamek blinked, appearing even more startled than before, "It's not safe to be out here—"

"You foolish girl!" Kammy suddenly snapped, "What are you doing out here?! Can't you see you're causing Lord Bowser more pain?! I thought I told you to avoid him at all costs!"

"I…" I drew away from them, surprised at the unexpected flare of temper.

"The thirst is building," Bowser groaned, "I…I don't know what I'd do if I lost control and hurt her…but Stars she smells delicious."

It was obvious he was in pain and it forced out my compassion. I took another step towards him and Bowser visibly stiffened. I halted as he started to shake with tremors. The Koopa staff wiped sweat from his brow.

"Bowser?" I asked softly.

"K-Kamek w-why is she here?!" his voice transformed from being dove-soft until it was a borderline snarl. His soft expression morphed into a terrifyingly murderous visage. Teeth bared, his voice became so guttural I could barely understand him, "I…I don't want her to see me like this!"

His features fermented, becoming more furious as his black pupils shrank, thinning to slits as he snarled and shook with rising rage, "Why is she here to see me when I'm a monster!? I DON'T WANT HER HERE TO SEE THIS!"

His voice was guttural, as his sanity was slowly slipping. His red eyes were wild, wide, livid and swirling with madness. His long claws dug through cement and gravel impatiently, as if wanting something more than a substitute for live flesh.

"Lord Bowser please try to calm yourself," Kamek spoke softly, "She does not think so lowly of you."

"Monster?" I frowned, "Bowser you're not…"

Sharp talons slashed wildly, dents engraved into the courtyard walkway from his wrath. No matter how much his staff tried to calm him, the king was fighting a losing battle. The pull of the Koopa moon must have been an alluring, maddening power. He closed his eyes as he trembled, fighting, trying to will himself above the monstrous tug of the Koopa moon.

"I can't…" he panted, eyes clenched shut, "control it…she's in my head. Her scent is driving me crazy. The scent of a scrumptious, pure little minx…"

Kammy quickly flew over, frowning heavily, "Princess now is really not a good time to be here. I ask that you leave now."

"GET HER OUT OF HERE!" Bowser's roar shook the entire courtyard.

With that exclamation, he shot a spout of fire in the sky. Startled, I lost my balance, fell onto my rear and toppled into the water fountain. The water was freezing and I'm sure my stunt attracted everyone's attention.

"Sheyt!"

I don't think it'll take rocket science to get the Sarasaland translation of that one.

I shrieked, embarrassed and startled by the cold touch of water. I rose to my feet shakily, gaping down at myself. I was soaked from head to toe and nearly slipped again when I stood back up. Oh why is being clumsy such a chore?! Half of the staff went to help me from floundering around stupidly.

"Stars above, you all right Princess?"

"Let's help the lady back onto her feet."

Hands grabbed my arms and shoulders and helped hoist me back onto my feet. I shivered as the fountain water lapped at my knees, "T-Thank y-you…"

I realized I was receiving many lingering stares and soft gasps flooded the courtyard. I pushed my messy, drenched bangs out of my face. I peered around, noticing the dropped jaws and wide eyes, "...What?"

"M-My lady your gown…" Kammy's words died off.

"…This job has more perks every day," one Koopa troopa whispered to the next.

I looked down and realized my nightdress was completely drenched. It stuck to my body like a form-fitting glove and was utterly see-through. I could see my lacy pink bra and panties as easily as if I wasn't wearing this gown.

"Ah...?"

Oh my Stars, this can't be happening to me. I've done some seriously embarrassing things before but nothing to this magnitude. Everyone present could see my body and underwear. My face burned hotly as I tried to cover my indecency. With bangs sopping in my face, I peered up at Bowser awkwardly,cheeks burning with blush.

"O-Oh my Stars…" I squeaked, arms wrapped around my torso, "T-This is so not happening..."

Kammy and Kamek both materialized in front of me. Kammy hovered in front, acting as a shield to roving eyes, "Erm..T-There is nothing to see here! Please carry on with your own duties—Kamek! Do something!"

"Uh…Yes...Don't look at the princess! Nothing to see! We can't see through her gown at all!"

Kammy glared at him, "Idiot..."

Gee thanks Kamek!

Bowser stared; wide-eyed and mouth agog. His eyes trailed over my wet, exposed form with fastidious absorption. My face burned redder when a thick glob of drool slipped from his hanging mouth. In a split second, Bowser clutched at his head and groaned, body afflicted with vicious tremors as he wreathed, convulsed and gnashed his teeth. Kammy tried to check on him, but Kamek held her back, fearing for her safety. He continued to shake and jerk violently; something was terribly wrong with the way his red eyes rolled into the back of his head.

When it seemed like the internal strife had ended, Bowser slowly rose to his feet, spiked gauntlets clanking together in an ominous rattle as his fists clenched. He stood perfectly straight and when I saw his eyes, my blood ran cold. His eyes glowed completely white, narrowed in sinister malevolence. With a calculated motion, he slowly turned his thick neck in my direction, grinning hellishly as ribbons of drool slipped from his jaw. I froze, heart pounding wildly and eyes wide.

"Uh oh," Kamek whispered softly,turning to look at Bowser.

"Mine." The king growled, eyes slanting; his voice sounded wild, carnal, as if something else controlled him.

Bowser took a menacing step forward and grinned viciously, smacking his lips as several Koopa guards rushed to form a barricade between us. The guards clustered around their king, whose wicked smile was replaced with an infuriated sneer. With the bat of a powerful swipe, they were all sent flying into bushes and into fountains.

"You'd best run princess!" Kammy hissed.

"What about you?" I asked, keeping an eye on Bowser.

"I must stop his majesty," she spoke sadly, "It is what he would wish of me in his right mind."

"Oh yes," Kamek gulped, "I'm absolutely positive now that I'm not paid enough to do this."

"Go princess!" Kammy snapped as Bowser turned his attention back onto me, "Run!"

I dashed into the palace, ignoring the clammy, wet gown slapping against my skin. As I rounded a corner I heard a stone door crumble—as if it had been shattered into pieces. Bowser released a furious roar that shook the foundation of the castle. The turbulent thunder of encroaching footfall had me wishing I could run faster.

Bowser can run? I've never even seen him run—I glanced over my shoulders and shrieked. There was a thunderously loud explosion of shattering stone —probably a statue as Bowser suddenly appeared. He was livid, completely out of his mind as he pursued on all fours like a beast.

"Succumb to me!"

I was terribly outmatched with three of my strides barely equaling one of his. His eyes narrowed, fangs bared as he continued his mad dash. My Stars he was salivating.

A statue near my head exploded in a hail of stone as I cried out; he was gaining on me. He was gaining on me! What could I do if he got his claws on me!? He was the mighty Koopa king and I was just a human girl.

Is this how Peach felt when Bowser chased her? Probably not since he wasn't trying to kill her. I continued to run through the hall, knowing he was gaining on fast. I could hear the thundering of his steps getting closer.

But I couldn't stop. Even as my lungs burned from exertion I had to keep running. I was growing lightheaded, fatigue weakening my strength and I did the only thing I could and barricaded myself in the nearest room. I locked the doors and moved away.

My heart pounded against my torso as I tried to steady my nerves. My hands trembled, sweat dribbled down my cheek as I regained my breath. Moments later Bowser's clamoring footfall stopped before the door.

As he sniffed around I held my breath and stood completely still, hoping to the Stars he wouldn't detect me. But my prayers weren't heard. He released a furious roar and rammed into the door with brute force. I backed away; what in the hell am I supposed to do?! Where's Kammy and Kamek? Could they even stop him?

Let's be real, it's only a matter of time before he managed to bust his way in. Even when he was joking around, I've seen Bowser lift at least three or four of his twelve-foot tall statues with a single hand.

With one mighty roar, Bowser bust through the cement door, stone crumbling under his might. Clouds of soot coifed in the air as he looked around, sniffing and when his sight fell upon me he grinned insidiously. He stomped forward, grin growing larger as his eyes narrowed with dark victory. I slipped backwards, moving away from him as fast as possible.

"Mine," his large tongue lapped at his lips as he salivated monstrously.

"Bowser please," I choked, staggering away from him, "It's me Daisy. D-Don't do this. I know you're there somewhere. Please listen to me damn it!"

His large hand darted forward and with a yelp, I dodged his grasp and toppled over. His other hand lunged forward and grabbed me. Massive claws pierced my shoulders and arms painfully until blooms of red spots appeared on my nightgown. I shouted and struck at him with all the strength I could muster.

My small fists bounced off his tough hide like nothing as he hoisted me over his shoulder with thoughtless ease. I screamed, kicking and attacking but nothing seemed to do. I froze when a single claw brushed intimately against the back of my thigh.

"Mate," he purred, licking his maw yet again.

A thick, wet tongue lapped gently at my cheek and he purred again, "Mate. Mine."

I blushed, "Wha? N-No! No! I am not your m-mate! I'm Daisy! A-A-And you are Bowser, my friend."

Without a second thought he dumped me onto the room's spare bed carelessly. The back of my head hit the bed first, neck crunching at an awkward, painful angle as I completed a backwards somersault. Stars scattered in my vision as vertigo slammed into me with the force of a freight train. Bowser loomed overhead, smiling down at me with foreboding jollity.

Though my head swam and vision suffered, I mustered up courage and dove away but he was quicker. He wrapped a claw around my ankle as his talons sliced into the flesh of my leg. With one sound tug, Bowser pulled on my healing knee. There was a squelching, wet pop and my knee set afire with pain. I screamed in agony as he dragged me closer.

The throbbing, white-hot pain gnawed through my sensibilities like acid and I was barely aware of being flipped onto my back. I blinked at the ceiling, a cluster of hot tears making the tiles waver and blur in my vision. Bowser materialized above my head; magnificent and ominous at the same time; horns elongated, fangs glittering and glowing eyes impassioned and hauntingly cold in the same token.

I choked back a sob as he stalked closer with painstaking movements. He moved to my clavicle, pressing his snout against my clavicle and inhaled my scent deeply. My temperature flushed when his wet tongue lapped at the side of my face affectionately.

Bowser ushered a soft growl, clamped the shoulder of my gown in between his teeth and with one sharp yank, ripped off the shoulder and bared my neck. I gasped, squirming underneath him as Bowser licked, nipped and suckled my bared neck with surprisingly tender motions. I sobbed as my knee ached. What could I do to defend myself?

I did the only thing I could, and that was to utter a prayer, "Helani illyah kurrahme."

Heavens above help me.

"…D…Daisy?"

Teary-eyed, I peered up through messy bangs. Although Bowser's eyes were still completely white, he looked confused. But he looked like he was my friend again and not the monster who dragged me through the palace. Relief flooded through me as I sobbed harder, "Bowser you're back. Thank the Stars."

When I blinked my tears back, I could see the red irises as he peered down at me in confusion. He studied my eyes and saw the tears, "…You're crying?"

He reached a claw to gently stroke my face but then he pulled back quickly, noticing his sharp talons. He held his hands at arm's length, really studying his claws. He gaped in something akin to horror as one of his hands touched his sharp horns.

"Oh no…" he whispered softly, "It happened again…"

He must have put two and two together when he looked at me. Something about my expression made his face grow pale, "Oh no…I couldn't have…Flower? Did I…Are you…How could I…?"

His pained expression changed to surprise as he noticed my state of dress. The see through gown halted the Koopa king's claw and his face blazed red.

"…Pink?" he gulped, "I a-always imagined blue…"

"'Imagined blue'?! You idiot," I wrapped my arms around my chest to the best of my ability, "Please get…Kammy."

"I didn't hurt you did I?" he asked softly.

I sobbed harder, "Just go get Kammy, please."

There was a sudden shift in the weight of the bed as he stomped away to retrieve his female advisor. Even when he left, his face was still a ruby-red.

---

"How do you feel Princess?" Kammy spoke softly, waving a glowing scepter over my bruised knee. I could feel the magic seeping slowly into my bones, numbing the sharp pain into nothingness.

In a fuzzy black Koopa robe, I sat on my guestroom bed with a cup of tea. I took a slow sip, trying to ignore the way my hands rattled uneasily. How did I feel? A giant, mindless Koopa king had been trying to kill me! I was almost tempted to snarl something sarcastic but I knew she was genuinely concerned for my welfare.

"My nerves are still shot but I'm doing a bit better." Even my voice sounded raspy.

"That's good. Is the pain tolerable now?" Kammy asked, "If I knew someday I'd be using my magic for healing, I would have studied far more extensively in the healing arts."

"My knee feels better, thank you Kammy," I smiled up at her.

She raised her jeweled scepter into the air, with the gem's color morphing from lavender into a soft emerald color, "Follow the light with your eyes.

It felt like I was in a doctor's office, following the light of her scepter as she slowly moved it from side to side.

"Everything looks just fine your ladyship," Kammy let a soft smile come to her face.

The light to the scepter dimmed as Kammy finished the checkup. Firefly was placed on my lap. He studied me with a worried visage, nudging his head against my stomach, fluttering his leaves erratically.

In one hand I drank my sweet Koopa tea and with the other I stroked Firefly's leaves with a soothing, placating touch. Firefly, who had a bit of a protective streak, had been terribly upset the second I walked into the room crying. So now my little plant was placed on my lap, and as I gently brushed my fingers against his stem, Firefly's eyes fluttered, head and leaves drooping periodically as he battled against the alluring lull of approaching sleep. Kammy made sure I had taken an herb that had helped soothe the pain in my knee. She magicked a spell to ice my knee.

Kammy's spell used an intricate rune, magicking the ice so it would never melt or freeze my knee uncomfortably. My nerves were still shot, my hands rattled against the mug after such trama; I had no intentions of being alone and though I didn't have to say anything, Kammy was astute enough to hover nearby.

"Princess," Kammy frowned, "I did not want you to have seen that side of Bowser. Being tainted by the Koopa moon is something we all cannot control."

"Yes…I know," I spoke softly.

"I have spoken to the king," Kammy said, "And as you can probably guess, he is terribly ashamed of himself. He values your friendship in words I cannot describe."

"I know he is," I could only imagine what being turned into something else felt like. Fighting against impulses that you couldn't control was probably very detrimental to one's ego.

"I have a question," I said softly.

"Yes?"

"When I came outside, why was he bleeding?"

"Heh," Kammy smirked as she crossed her arms, "One of the king's biggest trials is during the Koopa moon. It is as if his superb strength is a curse."

"A…curse?"

"Yes as Koopa, the stronger we are, then the more afflicted we are under the Koopa moon's reign. The greatest of our kings have been driven to the utmost depths of insanity and driven to do unthinkable things under the moon's dominion."

I listened enraptured, Kammy continued, "Since the day Lord Bowser felt his control slipping away under the Koopa's moon, he had me promise that the second he lost himself, I would do all in my power to stop or retain him."

She chuckled, "Apparently snapping His Nastiness out of his haze requires a great deal of pain. That is why Lady Daisy, he was bleeding. That's why I–well Kamek had cast a spell to snap him out of his bloodthirsty haze."

"So does the Koopa's moon make you evil?" I asked.

"No, it magnifies our worst traits nearly ten-fold," she chuckled, "Because King Bowser is indisputably the strongest Koopa in the land, when he goes on rampages its catastrophic."

Your worst flaws are magnified; so he was extremely bloodthirsty and wrathful, but what did that have to do with me? Come to think of it, if I was controlled by the Koopa's moon, what would happen to me? Maybe like Bowser I would be blindly furious?

Extremely envious perhaps? And maybe really clumsy to the point where I couldn't walk on my own two feet? Yeah everyone would be safe then if I went Koopa-moon on people.

"So I get why Bowser was furious and bloodthirsty but what did his rampage have to do with me?"

Kammy's glasses nearly slipped off her face from shock, "You must be pulling my leg! Stars above! How much more obvious must King Bowser be with his affect—directives with you! He chased you halfway across the castle sobering like a pooch and yet you still ask why! One must wonder about the status of education in Sarasaland…"

I blushed, "W-well I'm just asking okay!"

"Well," Kammy cleared her throat, "As I stated before, King Bowser never wanted you to see that facet of his personality. He is deeply ashamed you experienced that. He would hurt himself before he ever wished to lay a claw on you."

I frowned, "It wasn't anything under his control. That wasn't him so he shouldn't be embarrassed for what he did."

I blushed hotly and crossed my arms as a thought came to mind, "But him ogling me afterwards, now that he can own up to!"

With a sigh I walked to my large vanity and studied my reflection. My bright hair was a wild mess and my eyes were still a bit red. I brushed my hair down until it was semi presentable again, "Do…you know where Bowser is right now?"

I looked at Kammy's reflection in the mirror. She tapped her chin in thought, "Hmm, well if Bowser is still the same as he was as a child, then I would guess he was on the roof. It's the only place he goes when he is embarrassed of his actions."

"Thanks Kammy. And you're sure he's safe enough to be around?"

"Absolutely positive. The midnight hour of the Koopa moon is the most hazardous—as you learned firsthand—although his emotional meter may be shot," she laughed, "he's safe, just don't go around showing him anymore of that pretty flesh of yours."

I blushed, whispered a quick thank you then darted off to find Bowser. Kammy kept an eye on Firefly as I went on my search. I took the elevator to the top floor. There were eight hundred and fifty stairs in the Bowser's keep and no way would I walk up there.

I was greeted by the jagged rooftop and the ebony night sky. As Kammy foretold, Bowser sat near the edge of his glorious keep. The moonlight reflected upon his dark shell, making it glow. He sat with his face propped up by his elbow as he gazed over the large boundaries of his kingdom.

This was one of the few times Bowser was silent or even reflective. I approached quietly but the rumble of his deep voice broke forth, "…I know you're there Flower. So quit with the hiding already."

My cheeks flushed, "…How did you know?"

Though he didn't face me, I heard his chuckle, "You're downwind and very easy to smell, especially tonight."

"Oh…"

I stepped closer until I stood beside him. Even sitting Bowser was still taller. His expression was contemplative and melancholy. Normally he was so full of confidence and pride but the Koopa before me looked undefeated.

"Mind if I sit next to ya?"

He shrugged apathetically and I took that as my okay to join him. I sat beside him and looked over the kingdom. The glowing red pools of lava were kind of pretty against the pitch-black horizon. The jagged plain was a deep purple and the air up here was sweet and warm.

"I'd understand," I felt the rumbling bass of Bowser's voice, "if you'd never want to…come back here again. I wouldn't allow that to influence our kingdoms' new alliance at all."

"Hmm, well I won't lie and say I wasn't scared stupid," I laughed.

Offended, Bowser turned to shoot a glare at me; okay no more jokes because apparently we want to keep the atmosphere terse.

"I mean…I was scared but Bowser that wasn't you. And that event, the Koopa moon is something unique to Koopa. It's something you can't control."

"That doesn't excuse how I hurt you," Bowser's face contorted in pain, "I wasn't any better than those ninji…"

Okay now saying something that stupid actually pissed me off. How dare he compare himself to those scum. Bowser is still a great guy regardless of the moon's weird, freaky cycle.

"I believe a week ago a wise friend of mine said, 'I don't ever want to hear that shit again,'" I quoted him from our trip on his cruiser, "Those ninji were perfectly aware they were violating me but you weren't."

Bowser looked at me over his shoulder but didn't say anything so I continued, "Sure you're a massive Koopa with sharp fangs and devil-like horns, but—"

The king's heated glare stopped me, "Oh come on! I was gonna make a point!"

"Well make it then," he growled, his mane standing up defensively, "I already know I'm a monster okay? I really don't need to hear it from your mouth too."

"You're not a monster," I grabbed his arm, "I will never think of you as a monster."

"But I am!" he roared, "Stars, Flower. I almost…I almost did something terrible. And yet here you are trying to convince me that I'm a good Koopa."

His body was tense, eyes narrowed to the point I couldn't tell if they were open or not, "How is an evil, tyrannical beast like me…going to ever be good enough for a funny, witty, prett-no gorgeous princess like you?"

I blushed at his praise as he continued, his voice wavering, "Flower, people flee when they see me, I know I'm hideous and cruel and I think you should too…"

His voice went weak and he suddenly turned his face away, "I am a monster and I'm not as good as you want to see me as. You s-shouldn't care."

"You are a good Koopa! Friends stick with friends regardless of what happens and I know you did everything in your power to protect me. Even putting yourself through insurmountable pain."

I looked away from him and off into the dark horizon, "Bowser, I've never…had a friend as great as you. You can make me laugh, you are easy to talk to and you fight for me in ways no one has ever before. It's my turn to fight for you."

His eyes were glassy, inflamed with emotion. I couldn't look at him or I would cry.

"I don't want something stupid like this," I grimaced, "to ruin our friendship. Even though I can be condescending and sarcastic, I just want to let you know you're one of my favorite people."

"You mean the universe to me too Flower," he purred his words in a way that made my face glow.

I scooted closer until our knees lightly touched. Since he didn't pull away, I figured he was okay with the new contact.

"I don't ever want to hear you call yourself a monster again you hear, big guy?" I laughed lightly as I patted his knee.

"Well then I don't want you to ever call yourself a failure as a princess either," he looked at my hand on his knee before peering into my eyes.

He smirked, "'Cause as far as I'm concerned you're doing one hell of a job negotiating business here in the Darklands."

I blushed, "Oh you know I'm doing jack sh—nothing for commerce! You're just being nice and fooling my kingdom into thinking I'm this studly negotiator."

Bowser chuckled, "Actually Flower I wouldn't do business with just anyone who comes knocking on my door. Hundreds of kingdoms wish to do business with us since we're filthy rich and all."

As he spoke, he continued to grin sinfully, "I base who I wish to do commerce with on the personality of a ruler outside of business."

"What do you mean?"

Bowser crossed his arms, "I like to see what kind of person I'll be dealing with. I look at the way the ruler dresses, how they act and even under fire what do they do? Do they find a way around the problem or do they crumble?"

I slapped a hand to my forehead, "Oh Stars."

Bowser chuckled, "What's wrong?"

"If you base your judgment off of how the ruler interacts, then why in the world are you doing business with Sarasaland?! I-I'm abrasive, clumsy, messy, and short-tempered. Oh and I dress like a pampered princess."

Bowser shook his head, "So you're asking what I see eh?"

"Yes! What makes me a good business associate with his majesty King Bowser?"

As Bowser studied me, he stroked his chin with a raised eyebrow, "You've shown yourself as courageous, gutsy and flexible, if something doesn't go your way you look to fix the solution to the best of your abilities."

I blinked as he continued, "While you are energetic and fun-loving, you know when it's time to get down to business. You take risks when you have a feeling that the odds are slanted in your favor but you're cautious enough that your adventurous spirit isn't a shortcoming. Your resilience is admirable but your self-doubt is your biggest enemy. You always second guess yourself."

I blinked, "Wow, feel like I just got my palm read or something. So you got all of that from us going to a school carnival and playing soccer?!"

Bowser chuckled, "It's always better to observe a person when they aren't doing business 'cause then you can really see their true colors shine through. If your subjects are half as wondrous as you are, then I'm more than happy to do business with you Sarasalandians."

"Bowser…" I smiled softly, truly touched by his praise.

"Hey I'm just tellin' you the truth." He grinned, nudging my elbow.

"So," I sighed, "Is there anything I should know about you? You know one hundred and one things about me apparently."

"Huh? Like what do you mean?"

"Well we're friends right?" I chuckled, "Any pet peeves to avoid?"

"Pet peeve?" Bowser scratched his head, "I don't have any pets named that…"

"No," I laughed, "Not a pet! It means like, things that annoy you."

"Oh! Then you should have said so," Bowser grinned, "I got an entire list of things that annoy me: Mario, bad food, idiots, Fawful, cheap Koopa beer, Mario, weekly meetings, when someone interrupts me, being called Bowwy, Mario, Fawful, having my tail stepped on, being stared at in the wrong way, drinking lukewarm kerokero colas, Mario…"

I laughed, "Okay, maybe I should have specified. There's clear differences between us and that can lead to misunderstandings, I'm human and you're a Koopa…so…"

Bowser laughed, "Like seriously! You're a human! Wow, I never really noticed that! What's next? Are you going to tell me that you're a girl!"

"Ahem!" I laughed, "So since we're two different races, maybe you should tell me things I should know. Like things that are offensive? So I could avoid doing things to offend your culture."

"Hmm," Bowser tapped his chin smirking, "Okay then. Offensive stuff…?"

"How about pulling your tail?"

Bowser chuckled, grinning slyly, "I'm not sure Flower if that would be something I'd hate."

"It's not offensive?" I looked surprised, "Really? Seems like it would be…"

"Nah," then he grinned, "But it is a come-on."

I blushed, choking as he laughed, "See! It's that kind of stuff you've got to warn me about! What if I did that to some other male Koopa?"

Bowser's smile erased before he growled, "Then if that happens, I'll kick his pathetic shell all the way from here 'til the Mushroom kingdom. Then we'll see just how much he liked having his tail pulled."

I laughed, "How in the world is that even a come-on?! Okay like what would the human equivalent of tail-pulling be? Kissing?"

"No, it's not that important. It's the same as…Holding someone's hand?"

"Okay," I nodded my head, "What else?

"No purring," Bowser grinned at me, "That's the same as a catcall."

I laughed, "That kind of makes sense actually! Same thing with growling?"

"Oh no," Bowser was still smirking, "That's way dirtier."

Well a growl was meaner than a purr, so again that kind of made sense. But then again, it's not like humankind uses growls and purrs in everyday speech anyways.

"So what else can't I do?" I smiled, "What about your horns? They're huge! No Koopa-stuff involving your massive horns?"

Bowser looked completely amused, "One measure of a Koopa's masculinity and fertility is how large his horns are." He made a subtle look I should have caught or maybe I should have heard the purr that entered his voice, "Why don't you touch them?"

While Bowser bent his head, I softly stroked his horns. They were as long as a human's ulna bone and they were pearl in color. I hope he hasn't gored anyone with these massive things, "So…then you must be seen as ubermasculine."

"Mind-blowingly masculine," he was grinning, eyes shining.

"Your horns…they're beautiful," I spoke softly.

"Why thank you," oddly enough Bowser was purring loudly, eyes closed; he must really be enjoying this, "Also, when a female fondles a male Koopa's horns it's a blunt, direct invitation."

"Invitation to do what?" His horns were far smoother in texture than I thought, it felt like ivory. I wonder if he has to clean them or anything. Or maybe he has his servants do it for him?

I barely heard the soft, rumbling chuckle from Bowser. He took my hands within his scaly palms, staring at me intently. I was surprised at the flagrant purring seeping in his voice, "To take her right then and right there."

I gasped loudly, body going rigid with horror; my brain must have frozen because suddenly I couldn't think straight. I'm sure my eyes were wide from shock as I stared at the rather smug, smirking king. I couldn't decide if I wanted to shriek girlishly or go running for the hills.

I had been…

I had been…

My cheeks blazed as he smirked roguishly. I opened my mouth to stutter more incoherent words but Bowser wrapped an arm around my shoulder.

"Don't worry about it," he was laughing now, "Your utter mortification is all but slapping me in the face, so I think I—the grand, handsome, merciful king—will let it slide…only this time. But if you make such a bold come-on like that again I can't keep any promises. A Koopa only has his limits you know."

"Gee thanks."

I laughed and shook my head. He chuckled softly to himself as I leaned closer into him. I was glad that the awkward air between us had dissipated. That's how it was with Bowser; tell a few awkward jokes and then we both felt better.

Knees still touching, I looked up at him with an impish grin, "I didn't know the king Koopa was so in tuned with emotions. You did call yourself merciful after all."

"Reading emotions you mean," he snorted, "Don't try and make me sound like an uber sensitive shell or something."

I laughed, "Well we wouldn't want that now would we!"

"Heh," he reached an arm around me and pulled me closer as I beamed up at him.

"Yeah you are definitely a special person of mine," I looked up at him.

"You are too Flower. I don't know how to say this without sounding like a soft shell but…I care for you deeply and…I'll always want to be your friend."

I looked at him, really seeing his sincere expression. I melted at how shy and sweet he looked, "I'll want to be your friend too Bowser and you're not a 'soft shell' it takes a real Koopa to admit his most personal feelings."

I sighed before I looked at the blackened horizon, "I cherish our friendship and hope I'll always have you by my side."

A moment of silence passed and from the corner of my vision I could see Bowser's odd behavior. Varied expressions would flicker over his face; one moment he crumpled up his face, then the next he shook his head, then he slapped his face into his palm.

I wonder how long this would go on for…

Was he having a heated internal debate or did he have really bad gas. His face glowed a bright shade of red when he realized I had been watching him, "Erm..."

I laughed, "What is it Bowser? You look awfully flushed. The moon isn't affecting you again is it?"

"What? Oh no, it's not the moon this time…I was just thinking about something…" He looked away, scratching the back of his head.

I laughed, "Like…?"

If possible he looked even more mortified, "W-Well..."

"Yeeeees?" I was grinning; after that horn thing, it's time I turned some of the embarrassment on him, "Yeeeeeeeeeeeeees?"

"H-Honestly?"

"Yes honestly."

"W-Well…It's just that…" his voice cracked and he hurriedly cleared his throat.

"It's just what?" I grinned, goading him on.

"I t-think you're p-pretty," he spluttered out choppily, face burning red.

My eyes grew round, "Oh."

"Yeah," he spoke softly, "Y-You're cute. I mean like real cute."

This time my face blazed with heat, "Um…thank you?"

Blushing, both of us looked away from each other. While he rubbed the back of his neck, my mind was reeling; oh Stars, he thought I was cute! I thought I didn't do too badly for myself, but it was something to have someone else tell you that you were attractive.

I wonder if this was the lingering effect of the Koopa Moon or something?

"Heh," he smirked, still rubbing at his neck, "Also I've got a kind of weird request…Well question really."

"What's that?" I asked softly, still floored.

"My dad used to tell me when I was a kid," he cleared his throat again, "that if you want something, you oughta just take it. I was taught that a King Koopa is entitled to take what he wants whenever he wants. But I think this time since it's so special…I'd rather ask first."

I smiled, "Sure, so then ask away King Bowser."

He leveled his stare before speaking, "Would…Would you let me k-kiss you?" he asked softly.

My head snapped around as I gaped, jaw-dropped; What? Did he just really ask me if he could kiss me? I knew I had to be neon-red, even brighter than Mario's hats. I blushed under his warm red visage. Normally his red eyes blazed with intensity but now they were warm and melting.

My Stars, there was no self-righteous smirk or any signs of a crocodile smile. He was serious!

This was the same guy who was always so sweet, spoiling me rotten and selflessly wanting nothing in return. And even the way he defended me against my friends, I've never had anyone do that for me before in my life!

I won't pretend he wasn't flawed because he was riddled with them. Bowser was hot-tempered, arrogant, impetuous and believed the world revolved around his head. While he may have been cocky, even obnoxious, he was still hilarious and so caring. So a better question would be, why wouldn't I kiss him?

As I continued to gape, he turned to face me completely. The red of his eyes were warm like the dying embers of a fire and though he wasn't smiling, there was something about his expression that was soft, gentle.

Why wouldn't I kiss him?

Was it because he was a Koopa and I was a human? No, that didn't honestly bother me. Even though he is a different species, he's been kinder to me than most humans. I smiled at him; it was okay to let my guard down. If he was able to feel safe around me then I could afford to let my guard down around him too.

Besides it would be an innocent kiss right? Friends can still be friends and kiss.

I grinned, "Sure Bowwy."

He stared at me, quiet and appearing a bit stunned, "Huh?"

"I said yes!" I laughed, "Why do you look so surprised?"

"Because you said yes!" This made me laugh harder, "You're not afraid I'll hurt you?"

I raised my eyebrows, "Should I be?"

"No," he smirked, "But I'll make it the best kiss you've ever had." He grinned, "You ever kissed anyone before?"

I blushed a bit, averting my eyes, "Well, only Luigi…"

I jumped when Bowser exhaled a flame angrily; his fists were clenched so tight that his joints were starting to pop, "You kissed that green goober?! I knew I should have killed him at the soccer game! It would have been quick and clean."

For a moment I allowed myself to be disturbed, "I'm pretty sure it's not legal to kill someone during a game…"

"Well that's it," he was still snarling and even grabbed my shoulders a bit roughly. With his red eyes narrowed he spoke softly, yet his words held a predatory edge, "I'm going to kiss you so damn good you'll forget you ever touched that plumber! Now c'mere."

He growled before he leaned forward. I was startled at the sudden aggressive display and blushed, "H-how are we supposed to…you know," I squeaked, "Do it?"

Bowser looked startled before he laughed, "'Do it?' Wow Flower, I was only talkin' about getting a smooch and here you are so eager to drag me into your bed. Put on somethin' short n' lacy and I just might pity you and let you have your way with me."

I grunted angrily, face turning red as I smacked him in his beefy arm with a punch. And since he kept on laughing obnoxiously, I wailed on him multiple times before I stood up and turned to leave. As I strutted off towards my room, Bowser grabbed my arm and spun me deftly into his arms.

"Going somewhere? I think you owe me something." His ferocious grin only seemed to be made more demonic in the moonlight. His eyes were nearly glowing an iridescent white and his horns and fangs seemed to sparkle malignantly.

For a second I had the urge to pull away. But despite his blunt, crude manners and arrogance, he was soft and in an odd way sweet as well. I bit my lip, studying him a bit more.

"Come on my lil' desert flower," he purred, his face coming closer, "Give into me. Open up your pretty petals to me, I'll treat you nicely."

I thought he would hunch over but he encircled his thick arms around my waist and lifted me up. I gasped, meeting his sly grin. His eyes slid closed and he moved in for the kill. The moment our mouths met, a delicious explosion of warmth flooded my body. His mouth with all his sharp incisors and fire-breathing abilities was perfectly soft and gentle.

The kiss was for a few seconds but butterflies flooded my stomach and heat blazed in my cheeks. The moment he pulled away, I was red-faced and out of breath. Purring loudly, his eyes were hooded as he licked his lips, "Damn you taste good, Flower."

He suddenly launched forward, exuberantly licking my neck. I blushed, struggling against the pleasure. His tongue felt good against my skin. I flushed heavily both from being tickled and being pleasured. Wait 'pleasured?!'

Oh…oh Stars please take that to the grave! To the grave!

"Bowser…" I moaned. Embarrassed I blushed at the involuntary breathy rasp. I cleared my throat and tried a firmer voice, "B-Bowser stop! Bowwy?"

With one last lick against my cheek, he pulled away with cloudy red eyes, "Damn that was fun. We have to do that more often Flower."

"Uh…" I flushed, not knowing what to say.

"I think as friends," he purred, grinning, "that along with hugs, kisses should be thrown in too eh?"

It was time to make the big Koopa blush for a change. I grinned at him mischievously, "Well, who knew that the big, strong, studly King Bowser purred like a kitten?"

Bowser's smile only grew more sinister, "Yeah? Well who knew the innocent, spunky princess of Sarasaland moaned in pleasure? I'll be hearing that in my dreams for awhile. That and seeing the pretty pink lingerie you have on."

My face exploded with heat as he cackled mirthfully; Stars! I thought he was too 'busy' to have heard that! Damn! Damn! Damn!

"Boooowser!" I exclaimed completely horrified.

Also the lingerie thing! Oh my Stars, I was probably blushing purple by now. I tried to pull away from him, but Bowser, still smirking held onto me dutifully, "Oh come on Flower, I was joking. I get it, no more of that kind of stuff. Just know what happened between us stays between us. Friends keep secrets."

I frowned, averting my stare"Yes! B-But somethings should remain a secret even from you!"

His smile transformed into nothing but sin, "Like the color of your panties?"

My face flamed hot as he boomed with gleeful mirth. I wiggled and tried to pull away from him and his stupid, charming smile. I was so embarrassed, glaring at him angrily, "Okay. Now you can let go of me!"

"Too much?" he laughed.

"Yeah too much you jackass!" I growled.

He sighed, rolling his eyes, "Okay fiiiiiiiiine. I'll behave for you Flower queen."

Then I grunted, "...Also I only know two secrets about you. You hate being called Bowwy and you purr like a kitten. I need more ammunition on you."

"Yeah well tough," he narrowed his eyes, "But I've got tons of secrets about you Flower. You can blow fire, you're an honorary Koopa, you're clumsy as hell…well actually everyone knows that one."

"And everyone knows that you're a big jerk."

"Make that king of the jerks. But I do have a really big secret that you don't know about."

"Yeah?" I beamed up at him, "Won't you tell me friend?"

"Nah, I think I wanna keep this one secret for a little while longer," he winked.

I rested my chin in my hands, "Hmm, well next week I won't come to the Darklands."

"Why?" Bowser looked confused.

"I'll be having my Sumanni in three weeks and I'll have to be there for all the planning," I grimaced at the thought of the upcoming night.

"What's a soo-man-eye?"

I laughed at his terrible pronunciation, "A soo-mon-nee is basically a Sarasalandian tradition that announces when a girl has become a woman. The word itself means 'to blossom'."

Bowser let his eyes rove over the fur of my black robe, "Hmm isn't that ceremony a bit late for you? Your petals have already bloomed."

I flushed before I glared at him, "…I hope you'll never ever talk about my figure in that kind of way again."

"Who said anything about a figure? I simply meant that you have matured."

"I…" My face exploded into a red haze.

Bowser was smirking at me as I was content to blush stupidly and look everywhere but at him, "Dirty-minded princess," I heard him utter.

I ignored his smug face and cleared my throat, "Well this ceremony is simply a way for me to mingle with eligible princes, dukes, earls, marquess, counts, barons, and royalty."

Bowser glared, his attention snapping back to me poignantly, "Wait what?"

"My father can't be a ruler all his life," I laughed, "I'm going to have to be queen someday. Granted I can rule by myself but I'll also have to be able to produce an heir to the throne someday and well, can't do that myself."

"So this Soo-goo-lie thing is basically a way for you to go meet someone, then know who you're gonna bang with?"

I blushed at his crude word choice, I mean really bang! Yet again I hit him in his arm, "I am merely being introduced as Emperor Sakuro's eligible daughter so that I can be seen as an available lady."

"And you're okay with all this?" Bowser looked stuck somewhere between incredulous and angry.

"No, but what can I do?" I shrugged, nibbling on my lip in thought, "I'll eat, dance with a few arrogant princes, then have a dance reserved for my father and then…" I twitched, "I'll choose three top prospects and dance with them to show my 'favor' for them."

Bowser still remained frowning and suddenly he grinned, "If you want I can kidnap you that day…? So you don't have to be around those ugly, shell-less losers."

I laughed, "Why kidnap me when you can be there yourself?"

"Huh?"

I grabbed his massive hands and was only able to wrap my hands around two giant fingers of his, "I said you've been cordially invited to attend! After all we're allies now, it would be rude not to invite you not just as friends but as an alliance as well."

Bowser suddenly grinned. He tightened his hands around mine, "Well I suppose I might decide to come along but only to give you some real eye candy to look at."

I laughed and tried to wrap my arms around his torso. I felt his chuckling echoing through his hollow shell, "Oh gosh. Well if you say so."

"It's starting to get late," He shot a quick look at the horizon, " and I know about your stupid human rules about ladies staying out too late and being called promiscuous or something dumb like that."

Bowser scooped me into his arms and began to carry me into the castle. I grinned at him, "Well thank you for respecting our stupid human rules."

"You're very welcome. But just know that my queen can be out as late as she wants."

"And why is that?"

"Since everyone will know that she's mine, no one will mess with her," he grinned evilly, " 'Cause if you mess with my queen then you've gotta deal with King Bowser's wrath."

"…Well you've sold me!"

For a change I didn't mind being hauled around. While we traveled through the castle, I didn't miss the way Kammy and Kamek suddenly materialized out of nowhere. They both watched us with content smiles before going about their way. Bowser dropped me off at my familiar silvery doors. He looked down at me with his normal mischievous smile but I could tell he was truly happy with the way his tail wagged.

"Now I'm gonna go before you try to tempt me to stay with your big eyes and long legs."

"You've over stayed your welcome, so go shoo," I pushed at his shell and shrieked when he turned around and tried to lick my hand, "Gross!" I laughed.

"Nighty my noisy lil desert flower."

I twitched as my face heated up, "Nighty you shelled kitten!"

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Alice: Reviews my pretties/handsomes! ^_^ (bows)