Hello Everybody! It has been a while? How y'all doing! I am sorry for taking so long to post new chapters but I gotta be honest, I am beginning to feel burned out. And then work is picking up again and unfortunately i gotta answer the call. If i dont, then i cant afford to do the things i love, like writing fanfics (no internet means no story.) I will try and get the next chapter up as quickly as i can, seeing how i already have it written. And to those who are willing to be patient for me I offer all the thanks in the world. On a side note, WHO IS READY FOR NEW STAR VS. THE FORCE OF EVIL! LOL. Reviews are always welcomed. Without further adieau, Chapter 11.
Chapter 11: What a day
Celena was outside with Tom and Marco pulling weeds, dried vegetation, and making rows of dirt mounds for planting. Marco had planned to set up another acre of planting grounds to make more food. Primarily corn but that was because it was good eats and a good source of money for them. Thanks to the corn for being whit, it was like having an exotic vegetable that everyone wanted to try or, if they had already tried it, want it desperately. Marco and Star were the only ones who had it so there was no competition for them. They were happy to admit that they had more coin then they knew what to do with. That is, of course, if they spent it sensibly and not on every sweet treat they came across in the market place. So, they continued working, preparing to plant more corn and other vegetables. Star came outside from the kitchen with a tray at hand with drinks to give to the hard workers. Star approached Celena first, who was knelt down in the dirt as she continued to pull weeds.
"You know Celena, you don't have to help. Marco and Tom have this under control," Star smiled as she handed a cup to Celena.
"Thank you!" Celena took the cup graciously. She took a long drink as she enjoyed the cool beverage chill her core with excess fluids dribbling down her neck. "I don't mind helping, she caught her breath after her drink. "It's the least I can do after stealing some of you corn and giving me a place to stay.
"Oh Celena. I had already said you can stay with no strings attached," Star pouted as she placed her fist on her hip.
"I know. You've been saying that for the last 3 days. It's fine. I like to pull my own weight."
"Hm. I wish we all shared your philosophy," Star smiled.
"Yeah, I can hear you!" Tom yelled.
"I know!" Star sang song back at him as Celena laughed. I had been 3 days since Celena agreed to stay with them and the young monster was fitting in just fine. Thanks to the welcoming nature Star and Marco had, Celena opened up almost immediately to everyone. She still had a sense of class division, even had to fight against herself about titling Star, but she grew more detached from those ideals with each passing day.
"It's fine. I will do what I can until I find a place to stay," Celena giggled as she watched how Star and Tom interacted. By now, Marco and Tom had walked up to Star to grab their beverages. Star frowned at Celena.
"All the same reason why you should kick back. You done even plan on staying here or too long and yet you are working as though you live here."
"It's alright, Star. If she wants to help I say we let her. Besides, it's good that she does. It will help her refine some of her basic home life skills," Marco leaned on his hoe.
"And it takes some of the workload off us," Tom added.
"I wouldn't be talking if I were you. We can barely get you to do anything around here," Star glared at him.
"Hey! I've gotten better," Tom said defensively. Marco and Celena just laughed at him.
"Well alright. If you need anything, just let me know. I will be inside fixing up lunch," Star turned to Celena who greeted her with a big smile.
"Thank you so much. I believe I will be good for now."
"Same goes to you Marco. Tom...don't bother me," Star smiled as she walked away. Tom puffed as he turned red with anger. Marco patted Tom on the shoulder as she he laughed. Marco walked away for a moment as she placed his hand in his pocket. Tom took notice as Marco walked around the other end of the cornfield.
"Hey Celena. I will be right back. Don't get too far ahead of me. Star would never let me hear the end of it," Tom said as he walked off.
"Okeydokey!" Celena smiled as she continued to pull weeds. Tom made his way down the side of the cornfield silently. It Marco was up to no good, Tom would like to catch him in the act. He peeked around the corner to see Marco's back turned against to him. He noticed that Marco's hands were in front of him and Marco was saying something silently to himself.
"What are you up to, Diaz," Tom said silently to himself and saw that Marco placed something into his pocket. Marco turned towards Tom's direction to find Tom spying on him. Marco's immediate reaction was to put himself into a fighting stance.
"Tom! What are you doing?!" Marco yelled.
"I was going to ask you the same thing," Tom stood straight.
"I wasn't doing anything."
"Mm-hm. What did you put in your pocket?" Tom crossed his arms.
"Nothing," Marco walked past Tom.
"You aren't a convincing liar, Marco," Tom followed him. Marco just ignored him as she kept walking. "Alright. Whatever you say. Just don't let Star see it." Marco stopped and turned to Tom. Uncharacteristically, fury burned into Marco's eyes, enough to even make Tom flinch.
"You leave Star out of it. She doesn't need to know anything," Marco glared Tom. Tom noticed he had some green in his eyes.
"Whoa due. Take it easy. I was just messing around," Tom backed up. He saw the green disappear with a look of shock in Marco's face. Marco brushed his hand through his hair in confusion.
"Uh…. sorry. I don't know what came over me," Marco turned and walked away. Tom just examined him suspiciously.
Everyone sat at the table that night enjoying dinner. Dinner consisted of corn, grilled boar that Marco hunted more towards the evening while the creatures began to look for a place to rest. Celena ate extremely graciously and with much gusto.
"Marco, this is fantastic. I don't usually eat this much meat unless it is a small creature that I can catch," Celena wiped her mouth with a towel, then reaching for the corn. "And this corn is so amazing! It's like eating sweet beads of pearls."
"Glad you like it," Marco laughed at her.
"Oh, I do!"
"As do I!" Glossaryck yelled as well. Star had set up a plated for him as well. She had the book next to her so she could read and eat at the same time. "I am happy to see that you are taking your studying seriously," Glossaryck turned to Star.
"Yeah, well, it is kind of nice to do something at night. Marco and I spent a lot of time alone here without much to do," Star explained.
"Geez. Sorry to hear that I am not entertaining enough for you," Marco replied sarcastically.
"No, Marco! That's not what I meant! It's was more fun that way… I mean, there is no one I would rather be alone with then you… I mean," Star turned bright red as everyone turned to face her. "I mean…whoa! It is just me or is it hot in here," Star began to fan herself as she hid her face behind the book. Her hearts on her cheeks began to glow. Something only Glossaryck saw. He floated towards her to whisper in her ear.
"Be careful Star. Your emotions are showing,' He said as he poked her cheek with his index finger. She let the book fall on her head to completely cover her head.
"So…. is anyone gonna tell me what that building in the back is going to be?" Celena decided to change the subject.
"Nope." Marcon and Tom replied simultaneously.
"What?" Celena looked at them. Star took this time to peek out from under the book. Why not?"
"It's a secret," Marco replied.
"And he won't tell me either," Tom lied through his teeth. In fact, Tom was the only one who knew what it was but went under the guise that he didn't.
"You guys have been saying that for a week!" Star popped up from under the book.
"You guys did all that in one week?! That's pretty fast!" Celena congratulated them.
"Thank you, Celena. Yeah, we have been working pretty hard on it. Actually, we're almost done too, so we decided to take it easy for a change. You know, chilling for a while," Marco laughed as he stood from his chair to take his plate to the sink.
"Oh! Here Marco. I will do the dishes," Celena jumped up from her seat with her empty plate.
"I can do it, Celena."
"No! I insist. It's the least I can do," Celena pushed him away.
"Well, ok. Thank you so much," Marco thanked her as he waked to the couch. Star watched Celena as she cleared the table of the rest of the dishes. Tom sat on the couch furthest away from Marco who was cleaning his sword.
"Celena, I just want to tell you thank you," Star turned to her again.
"For what?" Celena turned around to face her.
"For everything that you do. You don't have to do chores or help in the fields but you do. Not everyone is as kind hearted as you."
"Well, you do know not all monsters are bad," Celena joked.
"I don't believe anyone truly is, but you do things without needing to be asked or complain about it. I wanna show you my gratitude by taking you on a girl's day out!" Star smiled as the idea came across her mind.
"What?!" Everyone yelled in unison.
"Yeah! Let's go shopping in the village tomorrow! We'll have lunch at the little restaurant as well!"
"Well… look at me. I don't know if the citizens of Mewni will take lightly at the fact of a monsters walking thought one of their villages. Especially one like the village you guys go to," Celena stared into the sink.
"Nobody has to know you're a monster. We can go in disguise, much like Marco and I. We do it all the time," Star tried to persuade her. "come on. It's the least I can do." Celena turned to look at Star again. Celena smiled sweetly at her.
"Ok. Why not," Celena giggles as Star jumped from her seat to hug her.
"Yah! We are going to have so much fun! You'll see," Star shook her by the shoulders. Marco walked over to them.
"You're sure that is a good idea? I mean, what if they find out Celena is a monster."
"Don't worry so much, Marco. Everything will be fine. Like I said, we will go incognito, burn some coins and eat like pigs. Nobody will expect a thing," Star explained blissfully.
"Maybe I should go with you guys. You know, to make sure you are safe."
"Uh, no. Marco, it's a girl's day out. You know… only girls? The thing you want the most? Star joked as Marco turned bright red.
"Bwahahahahaha! Marco has never had a girlfriend!?" Tom pointed and laughed. Star giggled as Marco went stiff in embarrassment.
"Sorry Marco. I didn't mean to embarrass you," Star tossed his hair. "Marco, don't worry. We will be fine. I bout some make-up so I can hide my hearts. I even have enough to go over Celena's face and forearms. We will blend right in," Star opened her hands and moved them away from her face.
"Why did you buy so much?" Marco furrowed her brows.
"I've never bought this stuff before!? I had no idea how much I would need," Star put her hands on her hips. Marco looked her over quickly and realized she was telling the truth. Apart from when she us to do makeovers with Ponyhead, Star never really used makeup. She had a natural beauty that didn't hit him lately.
"I suppose… it's not like you needed it before. You're already beautiful…" Marco's eyes bolted up at what he just told her.
"Huh…," Star turned bright red as her breath was taken away. Never before had he complemented her in such a manner. The weight of it all made her knees weak. Celena, Tom and Glossaryck just watched as if they were watching a soap opera.
"Uh… you know… ok! Um… you win. Just be careful," Marco tried to compose himself. Even Star finally came to grips with reality.
"Yeah! Yeah… of course. You and Tom could hang out and do something while we are gone,' Star cleared her throat.
"And if I refuse?!" Tom had to blurt out.
"Then go home," Star smiled at Tom who pouted at her suggestion. "Well, now that that's settler, everyone off to bed." Everyone began to put as she began to show a side of her none of them thought she had. Glossaryck raised his hand to grab Star's attention. "Yes, Glossaryck?"
"Yeah, since I am older than anyone here, I don't feel like I need a curfew."
"Be that as it may, Marco and I am the owner of this house. So, you will do as I say," Star replied. Glossaryck looked towards Marco with pleading eyes.
"Sorry. She is the boss," Marco shrugged his shoulders as Star crossed her arms in victory with a smug look on her face. Glossaryck crossed his arms and floated to his book, mumbling the entire way. Celena laughed as she ran by Star and Marco. Tom threw himself onto the couch where he pulled a pillow and blanket from under the couch.
"That is more like it!" Star smiled as she and Marco walked to his room.
"You're like their mother," Marco laughed.
"Heh, yeah. And I guess that makes you their dad," Star blushed madly as she ran her gingers through her hair. Marco tripped dover his own foot in response.
"Yeah… I guess you could say that," He chuckled nervously as they entered his room. In a matter of minutes, the little house grew silent to all but the creatures of the night. It grew quiet with anticipation of tomorrow.
Star sat at the kitchen table facing Celena as she patted her down with a light beige powder that began to mask her grey, scaly skin. As her color changed, Star grew increasingly proud of herself and her ability to apply makeup. Even Celena couldn't help but feel giddy as Star applied the makeup.
"Someone is excited," Star smiled.
"Yeah I am. I have never been to a Mewnian village before. I had always wondered what they are like," Celena moved her legs restlessly.
"Yeah?"
"Yeah. Being a monster, we really don't get to feel what you guys do. Sure, there are plenty of places we can go to mingle; if you have dimensional scissors you can travel about the dimensions but when you got nothing and are stuck on Mewni, you can't help but wonder what it would be like to be Mewman," Celena looked into Star's eyes. Star could see that this was a bit of a sensitive subject for Celena. So much so that Star began to feel guilty as the sorrow began to build up in her.
"Is life truly that bad for you and other monsters?"
"It can be. I sure wouldn't mind being accepted for who I am and not be judged for what I am," Celena looked into her lap.
"Sounds like it would be a wonderful world."
Yeah. I would be," Celena said quietly. Even Star found herself staring off into space. All the thoughts of how she has acted and treated monsters swam through her mind. Even having a few monsters as friends, she was misjudging other monsters. She was und the illusion that her friends were an exception to the rules and no one else. That wasn't the case anymore. There truly were monsters out there that could only dream about being part of everyday life. Much like artisans at the village, monsters had their own skill sets of hunting, farming and foraging. They had their own take in art and craftsmanship that was unique to the. If it was ever possible, monsters and Mewman could bring about a new way of living, shattering barriers that separated monsters and Mewmans. It would be a great benefit if the two could come together and become friends. Star smiled humbly at the thought of her friends who are monsters. They had truly made her life a bit sweeter at least. She turned to Celena and brought her head up to meet her gaze.
"But at least I can give you today. I hate that I have to cover your beautiful face, but today you're going to blend in and you will enjoy what the village has to offer." Celena smiled warmly at Star. Celena couldn't worry about being a monster; the only thing that was important to her was she was going to have the experience of a life time.
Marco stood next to the river that lay peacefully within the forest next to the house. The water was still crystal clear with the only thing that disrupted its clarity were the ripples that came from the waterfall upstream. Even though the waterfall was only about 10 feet tall, it was still forceful enough to push water miles away from itself. It wasn't a very loud waterfall either. This location was the perfect spot to be alone and listen to the flow of water, insects chirping and jumping within the brush, and the wind brushing gently across the tree's up above. The green vegetation, cool gray coloration of the rocks, and the cool mist spraying about made the entire scenery relaxing. For Marco Diaz, it was the perfect place to be alone as he pulled out Star's cellular compact from his pocket. He smiled as he flipped it open to see a new message under the name of Jackie. His smile grew wider as he read the message. He began to type back as a certain demon decided to popup form behind him, staring into Marco's hands.
"So, this is what you 've been keeping from me," Tom made himself known.
"Tom!" Marco fell sideways as the shock knocked him off balance. "What are you doing here?!"
"Funny. I was going to ask you the same question. I don't suppose Star knows that you are texting your old crush, does she?"
"No. She doesn't need to know that, Tom."
"Mm-hm. How long have you had that thing?" Tom pointed at the compact. Marco sighed as he tucked it back into his pocket.
"Ever since we left Echo Creek," Marco finally said to Tom after a moment of silence. Tom shook his head at Marco who grew annoyed at the notion. "What?"
"I'm just shocked. You ran into that girl after years of being apart and all of a sudden you start drooling all over her again," Tom let himself fall into a lean of one of the rocks by the river bed. His elbow made a loud thud and his eyes opened widely. "That hurt more than I thought it was going to…" He said a little too calmly.
"What are you getting at?"
"I guess that… that you already have everything a man could want. Why do you need another girl?" Marco's eyes opened widely. All his life, Jackie Lynn Thomas was his dream girl. There was nothing in the world that would make him happier than to have a chance to be with her. He told himself that this was a sweet and innocent girl with a chill outlook on life. She had interest. Physically she was fit; evident by her love of skateboarding, or any sport that involved a board. A dream girl that, just a few days ago, admitted that she had a crush on him as well. A fact that would have made him do backflips in joy or jump right out of his skin. But that wasn't the case anymore. Instead, he began to fill with confusion and guilt; feelings that, to him, made no sense. He could have the one he wanted….and then there is Star.
"I…. I don't know what I want," Marco looked up at Tom with pain filled eyes. Eyes that screamed with confusion. Even Tom couldn't help but feel concerned for his friends.
"Look. How about we go to Earth every now and them. You can meet up with Jackie and spend a little time with her. You know… to try and clear some of that confusion."
"What about Star?"
"She won't have to know. The she knows the better. I just want to help you make up your mind," Tom patted Marco on the shoulder. Marco chuckled faintly.
"Thanks Tom."
"Meh. It's the least I can do. Seeing how I live in your guy's house, virtually rent free," Tom laughed as he shrugged his shoulders. "The girls will be gone for a while. Why don't we head to Earth for a few hours? See what everyone is up too.
"Yeah. Alright," Marco agreed while the got up and made their way back to the house.
Star stood out front, waiting for Celena to come out of the house. Marco accompanied her seeing how the day was becoming increasingly beautiful with the birds of Mewni singing their song as the cool air grew warmer, enlightening them to a happy song. Marco took a step back to watch Star breath in the clean air. And then he found himself fascinated with her as a cool breeze brushed its fingers through her hair, the sun kissing her skin, and the light setting her body ablaze. She brushed her hair away as the breezed allowed her hair to fall silently everywhere. Is that the same girl I ran away with 2 years ago? My goofy, fun-loving, adventurous best friend? Marco thought to himself as a pair of blue eyes turned to him, causing him lose breath and the butterflies to swarm in his stomach. Except… except now she is so…. so beautiful.
"Marco, you ok?" Star looked upon him with concern.
"I'm fine," his voice cracked. He cleared his throat before he attempted to speak again. "I'm fine. You… you just look good is all."
"Thanks Marco," Star put her hands on her cheeks. "Feels funny without my hearts though," Star gently rubbed her cheeks where she spent an hour applying makeup thick enough to cover the color of her hearts.
"I agree. It's just not you without them, but you still look great, either way," Marco scratched the back of his head to cover up his quickly reddening cheeks.
"That's sweet, Marco," Star drew closer to him. Star looked up to lock eyes on his. "You know… I never realized how tall you've gotten," She began to lose her breath. Marco, indeed, had grown at least a head taller than her in the last 2 years.
"Heh, yeah. I remember when we were the same height."
"I don't know. I think I was at least an inch taller than you," Star laughed. Marco chuckled.
"Yeah… I guess you're right. Sorry."
"No, no. It's better this way." Marco and Star felt themselves being drawn to each other as she began to lean up while he slowly closed his eyes. A great warmth surrounded them as they could feel each other's breath burning on each other's lips. Just before they could lock lips the front door swung opened and Celena bounced out happily from the house. In that instant, Star and Marco were filled with panic as the young girl stared at the both of them; they sprang away from each other.
"Whoa. Was I interrupting something?" Celena threw her arms up in defense. Marco and Star were both bright red, unable to face each other.
"No! Not at all!" Star and Marco both screamed. Celena watched as the two were behaving bashfully.
"Well. Ok. Star! I'm ready!" Celena jumped happily. Marco turned to them when he was finally able to overcome his nerves to find Celena with peach colored skin. She was almost unrecognizable, a side from the part that Marco already know she was a monster, she looked just like an ordinary girl. She wore a black dress, that had a look of overalls at the top, to help cover her hind legs and tail. She wore a long sleeve white shirt to cover most of her arms. Star ee clipped and painted Celena's claws to imitate finger nails.
"Wow. You look Mewman," Marco smiled.
"Yeah? It looks believable?"
"Yeah it does. Well done, Star," Marco was finally able to look in her direction again. Star turned to his as well with rosy cheeks that manage to burn its way through her makeup.
"So… I didn't do too badly?" She asked him.
"Not at all. Of course, I wouldn't know how to do that myself, but it looks good." Marco and Star were lost in each other's gaze again. What is this? Why do I feel so flustered around her? Marco thought to himself. Yet again, Celena decided to make her presence known.
"Um…ok. I'm ready to go when you are," Celena smiled at Star. Star shook her head and turned to Celena.
"Right. Sorry about that. Well, let's go," Star hopped. As she and Celena began to walk away, Marco ran up to Star and grabbed her by the wrist. Star gasped as she turned to find his brown eyes fixed on her.
"Star…...," he grew quiet for a moment, "….be safe…. please…. please come home," His eyes were filled with worry.
"Of course, Marco," Star brushed her fingers across his cheek. He smiled softly in return. Star sighed in content as she reciprocated his smile.
"Let's go, Star!" Celena jumped in joy as Star turned around and ran up to her since Celena had already began to wonder off without her. Marco watched as the 2 finally disappeared down the path. Why am I feeling this way? Almost like… like I am falling for my best friend. But that can't be. I thought I wanted Jackie? Marco stood quietly as he swam in his thoughts.
"Whatcha thinking about?" Tom seemingly appeared from nowhere, standing right next to Marco.
"Tom! You gotta stop doing that!" Marco mumped away from him. Tom chuckled in response.
"I can't help it. It's just too easy," Tom wiped his eyes as Marco pouted. "So, does Jackie know we are on our way?"
"Yeah. I sent her a text earlier today about the plan," Marco seemed a bit distraught. A fact that Tom noticed.
"Hey, are you alright? We don't have to go if you don't want to."
"No, no. I'm good. Besides, I had already told Jackie we were going. I would hate to get her hopes up high then bail out on her at the last minute."
"No offense dude, but you don't owe her anything. We can stay here if you want."
"No. Let's go. I wanna get back before Star returns."
"Alright. Whatever you say. Will…uh…will Janna be coming?" Tom looked away as Marco and Tom made their way to the forest. Marco chuckled as he raised an eyebrow to him.
"Oh. Is this some kind of excuse to go see Janna again? Is that why you wanna go back to Earth.
Celena stood at the entrance to the village with wide eyes and mouth agape. She admired the humble cobblestone walkways, the variety of plants that clung to the walls and that hung from the rooftops. Clouds of grey and black smoke spewed from the chimney tops. The smells weren't the very least bad; it had the aroma of freshly baked bread, freshly brewed coffee or tea, and the occasional savory smells of lunch being cooked. And then there was the people. The people walked about the village without worry or fear. People were smiling and laughing as they walked, talked, and joked with each other. They bartered and sold without getting angry with each other or tried to be conniving and ended every transaction with a smile and good will. Children ran about screaming and playing without a care in the world. It was absolutely peaceful.
"Star, this place is amazing," Celena finally said.
"Yeah? Pretty sweet, right?" Star smiled at the bliss that spread across Celena's face.
"Yeah. Can you imagine what would happen if these people knew I was a monster?" Celena's expression changed into one of concern. Star put her hands on Celena's shoulders.
"Hey. Not so loud. What these people don't know won't hurt. Besides, today you are Mewman," Star brushed her cheek. Celena smiled at her yet again. "Now come on. We are here to have fun. Let's shop!" Star grabbed Celena's hand in joy as the girls ran into the village.
Marco sat on a park table, feeling anxious about Jackie's arrival. He tried to focus on the sounds of the park; children were running about and laughing, dogs barking as they played fetch with their owners, cyclist speeding along the sidewalk, even the occasional exchange of laughter and words as friends or families gathered to converse and enjoy this beautiful day. The sun was warm enough to kiss the scorch gently but the wind was cool enough to relieve the pleasurable sting. Leaves were brushed at the top of the trees, the fountain spat water into the air to splatter at the pooling water beneath. So much to focus on and all he could feel was the anxiety of meeting Jackie Lynn Thomas at the park. Worst of all, he could feel a bit of guilty pulling at his chest along with a sting of regret as he remembered watching his best friend running off with joy to enjoy the day. With all these thoughts and feelings flowing around, Tom sat at the seat next to the table that Marco was sitting on. As usual, Tom was worry free. A quality the he knew drove everyone crazy. As of lately, though, his one liners on Star, and temperament, became less frequent. All this time he spent with Marco and Star seemed to calm down this fiery demon. He wouldn't say it out loud, but he was having the time of his life with the two. Unfortunately, his nonchalant attitude was wearing thin as Marco remained locked in losing staring contest with the universe.
"Dude! Say something! You've been like that since we got here! The girls will be here any minute and you can't seem to be the least bit happy about it!" Tom exploded as he burst into flames. Well, his anger was mostly gone. Marco glared at him with green flowing in his eyes. The flames dissipated at the sight.
"I'm trying to think!" Marco stood up to stare Tom in the face. Tom could see something happening as he noticed that Marco's temper grew shorter and shorter with each passing day. On top of that, he noticed that every time Marco lost his cool, his naturally brown eyes started to turn green.
"Hey man, keep it together. I'm just getting bored her," Tom let his carefree nature come out again. This was to prove what he had been seeing. Sure enough, Marco seemed to snap out of it as his eyes became brown again. Marco shook his head in disbelief.
"Uh…sorry, Tom. I guess I am just nervous."
"Hopefully that's all that is."
"What's that supposed to mean?" Marco furrowed his brow at him. Tom cleared his throat as he brushed Marco off, not wanting to explain his findings.
"Well, guess who finally decided to show up," Tom threw his hands out to the girls. Marco felt a burn in his face as he watched Jackie's hair wavering in the wind, the way her hips swayed when she walked and how her eyes seemed to pierce his soul. This is wrong. He felt guilt and pain replace desire.
"Hey Marco," Her voice called softly. He pushed his feelings aside. He looked into her eyes and smiled warmly.
"Hey Jackie."
"Just admit it. You miss hang around me," Janna punched Tom on the arm. Jackie and Marco turned to them.
"Pfft. Don't sell yourself so highly. I had nothing better to do," Tom joked as he shrugged his shoulders. Janna just nodded her head mockingly. Marco and Jackie laughed.
"So, what's the plan, Marco Diaz?" Jackie nudged him.
"Well, it has been quite some time since I saw a movie. I don't even know what's new or exciting," Marco admitted.
"Then it's a good thing you have us," Jackie grabbed Marco's hand as they began to walk out of the park.
"I'm not holding your hand if that's what you're waiting for," Tom smiled deviously at Janna as he began to follow Jackie and Marco.
"Not even in your wildest dreams, demon," Janna laughed in return.
Marco and Star's home sat quietly by itself. All except for the two-headed cow they had that usually grazed a good distance from the house. It usually came close when it grew thirsty; because Marco kept its water tough close to the house so it would return and never stray too far from the house. Today it decided to get closer to the house because there was no one home to guard the cornfields. It mooed loudly once it was close enough to lose its heads into the cornfield. Since there was no one there to stop it, it began to eat happily. Then the cow felt a pat on its back. Busted. The cow backed out of the cornfield to find a stranger with a dark hood rubbing its back.
"I don't believe owners vant you to eat their corn," the stranger said with a chuckle. "Vhere is owner?" The stranger looked around. The cow responded with a moo. "Ok, 2 more ears and then you go." The stranger pulled 2 ears of corn off and handed them to the cow. The stranger laughed as he watched the cow walk away. He looked at the house wondering where the home owners went. He then looked at the corn and felt the urge to take some corn. His hands reached out shakily but then pulled back. "No. I vill not go back to stealing. I have new life and beautiful vife now," The stranger told himself as he walked up to the house where he knocked on the door. "Hello! Anyone home? I vould like to trade for corn. I have little money, but I can vork to pay debt!" The stranger called out but received no response. "Hm. Father-in-law say there is young couple here. Maybe they go to village." He told himself and he walked towards the front and sat down at the steps. "Fine. I can vait. Vorth it to feed family." Thankfully for him, the day was warm but the breeze was cool. It made it easy for him to wait.
Celena and Star sat down at a table outside of a small restaurant. They were enjoying a style of sandwich that was served in a French-like roll with warm chicken dove, Mewni's substitute for lettuce (it was red in color), a tomato like vegetable, and a type of sweet spread. It came with an early style of French fries, Mewni style since it was the color purple, and a cool glass of a berry tea. Celena couldn't help but drool at the smell, and when she took a bite, she was sent to a monster heaven. Star couldn't help but giggle at Celena's expression.
"Is it good?" Star asked. It was her first time having these sandwiches as well. Since Star and Marco had been successful at selling their corn, they now had the opportunity to try new foods or enjoy some luxuries such as pastries and chocolate.
"It's amazing! It all is! This drink, the food, the sounds, the village!" Celena grew excited as Star laughed at her. Celena looked at Star sincerely. "Star, I can't thank you enough. This is a life that anyone could get used to. It's almost too bad that it is just for today," She became humbled while Star grew sorrowful.
"I'm… I'm glad that you are enjoying yourself. I wish I could give this to you every day," Star had shed a tear. Celena caught her rubbing her eyes.
"Star…no, no. I'm sorry. I didn't mean to make you feel like this. Oh, I'm such an idiot," Celena slammed her fist into her forehead.
"it's not your fault. I didn't mean to get too sensitive," Star wiped away her tears. "I can't imagine what life must have been for you."
"Oh, you know, it's tuff but you can't change who you are. You just wake up every morning and be thankful that you're still alive," Celena stared into her glass before she drank out of it. She placed her cup back down. "That's why I gotta move on. No offense Star, I love living with you guys but I should be with my own kind. Not because I want too, but because it would keep you guys safe."
"Celena, we live on the country side. We don't get many passerby's. You would be safest with us."
"And what happens when the day comes and you guys can't handle it? I would never be able to live with myself if something were to happen to you guys." It's true. It is not uncommon for Mewmans and monsters to have some kind of relationship; Eclipsa was living proof of that, but there were many Mewmans and monsters who would look upon such acts with extreme hate and violence. It is very possible that their lives would be in danger of threats and attempts of homicide. Star smiled at Celena when a thought came across her mind.
"You know what?" Star saw Celena with a mouth full of fries. "I am a Magical Princess. One day, I will be Queen. I will abolish this segregation and use my magic to enforce my rule," Star boastfully bit her sandwich. Celena sat with a pensive look on her face. Then she smiled.
"Then we could have lunch like this more often!" She smiled at Star who sat with a smug look no her face. "But don't go making promises you can't keep."
"Not only do I promise it, but I will personally see to it that this relationship flourishes. Why should we be the only ones to live happily and prosperous. As a Queen, I must see that all my people are happy under my rule. Now, this change won't come easy. May take a decade, but at least it will be a star. Then, we can have more girl's day out like this but in your own skin." Celena seemed to glow at the thought.
"Star… you're the best friend I could have ever asked for."
"I really like you too Celena. You are the coolest and most caring girl I know. I am happy that I can do this for you," Star replied. The girls took a moment to continue their lunch. Star brushed her hands together before she spoke. "So, I think the next thing to do is to get some new clothes and get some sweets. How does that sound?"
"Sounds like I need to hurry and finish my sandwich," Celena laughed as she ate quickly to continue with this exciting day.
The guys sat in a theatre that was almost empty; the movie had been out for a few weeks and finally lost its appeal from the masses. Never the less, the girls picked this movie for Marco to see because he has always been a fan of action/adventure movies with plenty of fight scenes. He even enjoyed the idea because they would have the whole place to themselves with little to no distractions. Jackie, obviously, sat next to Marco with Janna to his left and Tom right next to her. Tom had made a point to not sit next to Marco, seeing how there was an equal amount of men to women and he did not want to be seen sitting next to a dude. Jackie watched as Marco's eyes were filled with fascination to the movie. She took the opportunity to wrap an arm around him and lay her head on his shoulder. Marco's breath shallowed when he felt her around him. He looked down at her with rosy cheeks.
"You ok?" He asked.
"Yeah. I'm fine. Just… getting comfy," Jackie said, not leaving his shoulder. Marco, at a loss of words, returned to the movie. While this was going on, Tom and Janna were throwing popcorn into each other's mouth. Marco turned to them next.
"Do you guys mind? We are trying to watch the movie," Marco growled at them.
"That's what makes it more fun," Tom laughed.
"No. it is not fun. I am getting cover with popcorn.
"Jackie doesn't mind," Janna chuckled as she pointed at Jackie who at the popcorn off his sweater.
"Yup, does not help my case," Marco sighed.
"Chill dude. They're just having fun," Jackie said as she kissed Marco on the cheek. "Besides, I'm totally benefiting off their little game. All the popcorn I want," She laughed as she continued to pluck popcorn off Marco's body.
"Alright them. I will let it slide," He replied.
"Cool dude. Now, let's just enjoy the movie," Jackie said as she turned her attention to the movie again.
Star and Celena continued with the day as they walked from store to store that sold a variety of clothing, jewelry, and shoes. To Star, it wasn't too big of a deal seeing that she usually only wore what she made. But Celena's eyes beamed with excitement at all the different clothing in different colors.
"Oh! Star, can I try that one on?" Celena pointed at a dress that had puffed shoulders with a corset-like waist. It was dark red in color. Star smiled at her.
"Try it on? We just need to get your measurements and they will find a dress that fits you," Star put her hand on her hip. "Come one." Star and Celena walked into the store and, upon entering, were bombarded with a mess of colors and fabrics. The two girls couldn't help but to be excited as they ran through the dresses. Star and Celena flipped through every dress but Celena kept returning to the dark red dress. Star laughed as she walked over to the clerk. The clerk was an elderly woman, at least in her late 50's or early 60's, who seem to always have a stern face. "Excuse me, ma'am?"
"Yes, may I help you?" Her tone of voice was that of annoyed mother. Star shook it off before she made a smart remark.
"Yeah… we would like to get measured. My friend happens to have an eye for that dress over there," Star pointed over to Celena who was running her hands around the dress, admiring the fabrics it was made of.
"Yes. I'm sorry, dearie, but that one is not cheap. I couldn't sell it for less than 100 gold pieces," the clerk raised her nose at them. "Surely you couldn't afford it."
"Oh, no. What ever shall I do? I'm just a poor farm girls with no…. whoops!" Star toyed along when a couple of gold pouches fell from her dress. The clerk looked upon Star with surprise and disgust. "Oh my! That appears to be at least 362 gold pieces! But I can't afford that dress! I guess for being judgmental you will lower the price to 50 gold pieces for eth poor farm girls." Star batted her eyes at the now infuriated clerk.
"And what makes you think I would do such a thing?" The clerk clenched her teeth.
"Because it would be a shave if someone went around spoiling the good name of your store. Word travels fast around a village like this one. I have many friends. So, we will be over by that 50-piece dress when you are ready to measure us. Coool, Thaaannks," Star mocked happily as she walked away from the reddened-with-anger clerk. Celena turned to Star.
"What was all that commotion about?" Celena asked.
"Oh nothing. Just asking how much the dress was. We're in luck! That dress just went on sale!" Star jumped excitedly, mainly because of what she had done.
"Really!?" Celena jumped to match Star's excitement.
"You bet! She'll be here to measure us any minute," Star laughed as Celena draped the dress in front of her body to admire the way it can look on her. She swayed back and forth as if she wa ball. After a few minutes, the disgruntled clerk arrived with a measuring tape.
"Alright. Who's first?" She grumbled. Star walked up to the clerk since Celena was too busy admiring the dress to pay attention. "Very well." She wrapped the tape around Star's shoulders, allowing it to fall to her waist, and released it again to measure her waist. "Hm. 34, 23, 34. You measure nicely. Dresses more of your size will include anything in this rack," the clerk pointed to a row of dresses. Celena finally caught on to what was going on as she bounded to the clerk excitedly.
"Me next!" Celena couldn't conceal her excitement. She was greeted with a sneer from the annoyed lady. Celena didn't notice as she turned her back to the clerk and stood still. She mumbled as she began to take Celena's measurements. Once she got to Celena's waist, the clerk noticed something under Celena's dress moved. The clerk eyeballed Celena suspiciously for a moment until Star approached.
"Something wrong?" Star raised an eyebrow to her.
"Not at all," replied the angry elder as she stood straight. "38, 26,42. It just so happens to be that that dress will have the proper measurements for you." She eyeballed Celena as she pointed at the dress.
"Really?! Sweet!" Celena grabbed the dress. Star began to feel her body after the clerk had given her Celena's measurements.
"Wow, I'm totally slender,' Star said with a bit of disappointment in her voice. She may have been an inch or two taller than Celena, but she didn't quite have bust as Celena did. Star approached Celena as the clerk examined the girls. She focused on Celena's collar to her shirt and noticed a discoloration being robbed off into the shirt. A young girl came from the back of the store as she walked up to the owner. She noticed that the owner was staring at the girls.
"Is something the matter, mistress?" The young girl tapped her on the shoulder, speaking softly enough so that Celena and Star couldn't hear her.
"Go in search for some guards. I have a feeling that that dark-haired one may be a monster," The owner turned to her. The young girl nodded as she exited through the back of the building, something that Star did noticed. The owner turned to see Star staring at her. "Would you like to view any other dress?" The owner tire to cover up. To Star, it seemed to be a drastic change for someone who was reluctant to help them when they first arrived.
"Uh… no. We're good! This will be it," Star quickly counted out fifty gold pieces.
"Are you sure? We have another good collection down the back of the store," the owner tried to convince them to stay.
"Nope!" Star gave her the gold and dragged Celena, along with her drew, out of the store. The owner ran to the door to see where Star and Celena disappeared to. To her surprise, they had just vanished.
Marco, Tom, Jackie and Janna walked to a little Mexican restaurant after the movie. It had an indoor dining room as well as tables outside that sat under a few trees. Marco happily drank from his horchata, seeing how it is one of his favorite drinks. He loved to pair it with a burrito, mojado, with carnitas. Jackie went with a torta with carne asada herself while Tom got a set of nachos that was covered with carne asada, cheese, guacamole, sour cream and jalapenos, and Janna got fish tacos with a side of rice and beans, that were covered with melted cheese.
"Yup. This is one of the few things that I have been missing from my life," Marco laughed as he put his horchata down.
"I'm guessing you can't find horchata where you're at, huh?" Jackie nudged him.
"Nope."
"there are a lot of things you won't find on Mewni. Everything is either too 18th century or just doesn't grow there," Tom commented as he examined a nacho before he shoved it into his mouth.
"Bet you can still get dysentery there," Janna chuckled as she bit her taco. The trio gave Janna a sour look. Marco returned to eating his burrito with Jackie watching him with much fascination. After a moment, Marco noticed her gaze upon him.
"Is something wrong?" Marco asked.
"Just happy to see you here. You look like you are having a good time," Jackie tousled his hair. Janna and Tom watched on with wide eyes and curiosity.
"Well, who couldn't? We have good food, watched a good movie with good friends," Marco's smile faded a bit, a fact that made Jackie nervous. "But…."
"…but she isn't here, right?" Jackie looked down.
"What? No. Jackie, that's not what I meant," Marco took the defensive.
"Now things are getting interesting," Tom whispered to Janna.
"This is the deepest I get to reality TV shows. Marco's one of my favorites," Janna chuckled at Tom.
"Will you two butt out!" Marco yelled at them, causing them to jump from their seats. "Jackie… I didn't mean it like that," Marco turned his attention back on her.
"But you like her, don't you?"
"I…uh… no. She's my best friend. No more, no less," Marco tried to convince her but, more so, he tried to convince himself. "Jackie…" Marco called her. Jackie stared into his eyes. "I know, for now, that I'm not always going to be around. But… but I would like to know if there is an 'us'." Marco swallowed his words as a massive wad of guilt and shame threaten to suffocate him.
"Really?" Jackie scooted closer to him.
"Y-yeah," Marco sputtered his response. Jackie leaned up and kissed Marco no the lips. He closed his eyes as he allowed this ivory haired girl to express her feeling for him. Tom and Janna winced at the sight.
"And macro has just set his own ticking time bomb" Tom commented to Janna. Janna gave a heavy sigh.
"Don't tell Star about this. I may be a trouble maker, but I don't intend to see her get hurt," Janna turned to Tom who just nodded in response. They watched as Jackie and Marco broke away to stare happily into each other's eyes.
Star and Celena walked out of a candy shop in the village where they had decided to indulge on an assortment of chocolates; or at least what seemed like chocolates to those who weren't residents of Mewni. Each girl held a cheese cloth-like sac that held their candy. Celena blissfully walked as she popped chocolates into her mouth. Star, on the other hand, grew dead still as she stared off into nothing. Celena continued to giggle to herself when she heard something from behind her. She looked back to see Star's candy on the floor and tears running down her face.
"Star!" Celena couldn't help but yell. Fortunately, no one seemed to notice the young girl's call. Celena dropped her candy to put her hands on Star's face. "Hey! Snap out of it!" Celena shook her gently. After a moment, Star's eyes focused on Celena.
"Celena…." Star whispered.
"Star, what's wrong?"
"I… I … Marco…"
"What?"
"Marco…. he's …. he's in pain. But… it….it feels like he is in love…. with…. with someone else…." The tears ran harder than before. Celena put her arms around her.
"What do you mean? Marco isn't here. How do you know what he is feeling?" Celena began to stroke her hair.
"I don't know…. I-I just feel his feelings. A-and something is telling me that he is growing affectionate to someone right now…" Star continued to stare off with her arms hanging. Celena let go of her to look Star in the face. She then noticed that Star's makeup began to wash away from the tears.
"Star, your cheeks," Celena whispered. The scare seemed to bring her back to reality, evident by a loud gasp and a quick hand to her cheeks. Fortunately, she decided to where her scarf today so, in response to, she pulled it over her face. Celena waited for a moment for Star to calm down. "Do you like Marco, Star?"
"No…" Star's eyes bolted to Celena.
"Do you… love him?" Celena treaded carefully.
"I… I …," Star tried to speak but caught view of a few guards walking towards them. Panic began to fill her body as she grabbed Celena by the shoulder and turned her.
"Hey, Star!" Celena began to complain.
"Just stay quiet and keep walking. We are being followed," Star hushed her voice as she and Celena began to walk away quickly. After a few minutes, Star could hear the guard's footsteps increasing in speed. Both girls began to sweat as they picked-up the pace.
"Excuse me. Miss may we have a word? Miss!" The guard yelled as Star and Celena took flight. "Ladies! Halt!"
"Keep going, Celena!" Star yelled as the two kept running. They heard whistles behind them as another set of guards came down an alley way. Star and Celena stopped to examine the area and took flight again in an opposing alley way. They ran until they found their way to a main road. "This way!" Star yelled as she and Celena began to run down the road. The sounds of clinking metal and footsteps caught up with the girls. A fruit cart got pushed into their path. In response, Star wiped her hand out in front of her body and the car was shot back in the direction it came from, knocking the guards down in the alley way.
"Star!" Celena yelled as she tripped on rolling fruit. Star turned back quickly once her heard Celena's body slamming into the ground. Both girls were breathing heavily as the guards began to surround them.
"Halt! We have you surrounded. Come quietly and will see to it that your charges will be less severe,' a guard said as they held spears to the girls.
"Star…" Celena said quietly as the tears began to fall from her eyes. She looked down at her friend. These guards will kill her on the spot if they find out she is a monster.Star would be sent home then sent to reform school once they found out it was her. Then there was Marco. I will never get to see him again… Star thought to herself. The guards crept ever closer when Star closed her eyes. This isn't how it is going to end.
"No!" Star's eye's bolted open to reveal white light pouring out. The guards froze until an invisible force shot them backwards and kicking up dust. Star fell to her knees from the exhaustion. Some of the guards remained standing since they were fortunate to have been standing far enough away.
"Captain! Are you alright!" the guards from the outside began to tread slowly. Their visibility was only 2 feet in front of them.
"Star. Get up. We need to go," Celena stood up to wrap one of Star's arm around her to help Star get up.
"Celena…" Star said quietly. The two began to move slowly thought the dust. After a moment, Star began to regain her strength, more so when they could hear clanking metal and footsteps approaching them. Th two girls looked around and saw a store next to them. Without hesitation, they ran through the door and closed it quickly but silently. The girls turned to see a familiar black beard and balding head. This time, the man looked upon them with curious eyes.
"Little lady? What brings you here? Don't you realize there is a lot of commotion outside?" The blacksmith lifted an eyebrow to her. He took a look at Celena as he noticed she had patches of gray scales appearing on her face.
"Mr. Blacksmith, we need help," Star looked up at him with worried eyes. He gaze was sternly on Celena though.
"You brought a monster into my shop?" He turned to Star ass he winced at his statement.
"She's my friend…" Star said quietly. He sighed as he reached for a blade on a book shelf. Celena began to back off as Star positioned herself in front of Celena. Star's breathing grew quicker until he pushed the blade into the bookshelf. It cracked opened to reveal a secret room. He reached over and opened the bookshelf wide enough for Celena and Star to squeeze in.
"Get in quickly," The blacksmith ordered. Star and Celena didn't hesitate. Celena entered with Star following behind her until the blacksmith stuck his hand out to stop her. "Don't go leaving just yet. You and I have much to discuss." His voice was serious. Star nodded her head fearfully. Once she entered, the blacksmith closed the bookshelf. He walked over to his counter where he lay an ax down, waiting for the guards to show.
Marco continued to eat his lunch until he grabbed his chest. Star…. His eyes grew watery as the pain flowed into his chest. Did… did she feel something? Or… or did something happen to her? He was getting lost in thought. Tom had been watching him as Marco reacted to the pain in his chest.
"She's going to find out," Tom said quietly to him. Marco looked at him in shook. Jackie turned to Marco as she heard Tom whispering to him. It made her feel concern.
"Hey, are you ok?" Jackie put a hand on his shoulder. Janna looked up when she heard the question.
"Yeah… yeah, I'm fine," Marco replied. "Let's just finish our lunch. We need to be going in a little bit," Marco gave Jackie a fake smile.
"O-ok," Jackie reluctantly agreed as they sat and ate in silence once again.
A couple of guards rushed into the blacksmith's shop who, in response to the rush, raised his ax at the guards.
"Steady! Lower your arms!" One guard yelled.
"Well, thank corn. It's just the guards," The blacksmith laughed as he placed his battle ax on the counter again.
"Sorry to burst into your shop like this Sir Morrison, but we are in search of a couple of young ladies," One guard explained.
"Aren't we all, young man? Ha ha ha!" Morrison laughed hardily.
"Yes. Indeed," the guards didn't seem to be amused. "Anyways, one of these girls is suspected to be a monster."
"A monster in our village? Why, we haven't had something like that happen for quite some time now! When I heard all the commotion outside, I knew it had been something serious. So, I go the old battle ax ready to protect my shop," Morrison laughed as he patted his ax.
"So, you haven't encountered a couple of gals that came this way? One with golden hair and the other with black hair?"
"No one has come into my store with those descriptions, but I could have sworn I saw some movement through the dust. It was heading for the south gate," Morrison pointed into the direction of the gate. The guards looked to one another as they made their way to the door.
"Thank you, Sir Morrison. Every bit of intel we get is helpful," The guards said as they walked out of the store.
"Good luck!" He yelled at them. He walked up to the window to see that the dust had cleared and the guards moving away from his shop. Once they were out of site, he drew his curtains and locked his door. He walked over to the bookshelf and opened to find 2 pairs of eyes looking up in fear. "Care to explain to me what's going on?"
"Uh… well," Star looked to Celena who had sweated so profusely that most of her makeup was gone. Morrison looked at the gray scaled girl with curiosity, which threw her off seeing that most Mewmans hated monsters. That wasn't the case here. Star had explained to him about their encounter, who Celena really is and how she wanted to make it up to her by taking her on a shopping spree. Throughout the story, Morrison had a cold stare. Once she was done, she waited with much fear on what he had planned to do with them. What he did next, yet again, threw the girls off.
"Bwahahahahahahaha!" Morrison laughed so hard that he bent over in pain with tears soaking into his beard.
"You're not…. Upset?" Star questioned him.
"For what?" Morrison was wiping away the tears.
"You know… because I am a monster," Celena pointed to herself.
"Oh, my dear. I have no issues with monsters. As a matter of fact, I have a few to them living in my home!" He stopped to breath.
"What!?" Star and Celena's jaws hit the floor.
"Yeah. I offer them shelter and food from my fields in exchange for work on my land. It gives me the opportunity to keep up my shop and have a farm at home."
"How do you manage that? Don't you get visitors or travelers that go by?" Star grew curious about the matter.
"Oh, they are good at hiding. A few of them have such a keen sense that they just know when a Mewman is coming from a mile away. Always scouting the area so they don't get caught and such. Heck, they are even better farmers than I am. Plus, it helps that I live at least an hour, by horseback, from the village. I don't get a lot of visitors," Morrison explained happily as he lifted his hand to the girls to signal them to follow them and the girls did so obediently. "To tell you the truth, young lady, remember when I told you my daughter had recently met someone?" Star nodded as they walked to the back of his store to stand above a massive rug at the center of the room. He kicked it over and bent over to pick up a loose floor board. There was a loud clank and the floor fell about an inch. "Well, I never mentioned that that fiancé is a monster." Star and Celena's eyes popped open again. Morrison goth his fingers into a grooving from where the floor collapsed and pushed it aside to where an opening underground was exposed with a ladder to up and down.
"Secret tunnel," Star whispered with excitement.
"You may be the coolest elderly man I have ever met," Celena hopped with excitement. Morrison laughed at their comments.
"I'll take that as a compliment. Anyways, I have no problem with monsters. I even had a few as friends when I was younger. With my daughter, I just want her to be happy and her fiancé seems to be doing one heck of a job." He had the girls go down the hole first.
"Where are we going?" Star asked.
"We are leaving the village. Seeing that you two have caused quite the commotion today, don't expect to be waltzing out the front door. We are getting you out of here quietly."
"Thank you!" Celena had tears of joy running down her cheeks.
"Anytime, little lady. I just hope you were able to enjoy yourself. These people can be so bull headed from time to time. No one wants to take the chance and get to know monsters for how they are and not what they are."
"We have been here for a while and I did get to do a lot. So yeah, I still had a good time today!" Celena smiled at Star who just smiled in return. After a little while, they arrived at a massive rock. Morrison cracked his knuckles, placed his hands on the rock and gave it a good push. Light poured into the darken room and the sound of running water echoed down the tunnel. The threw walked out as she and Celena examined the area. Star smiled once she noticed the bridge above them.
"We are under the bridge before the village," Star turned to Morrison.
"Yes ma'am. A ten-minute walk that way and you are at the village. I chose this place for my secret entrance because few people ever cross this bridge, let alone at night."
"Why do you have this tunnel?"
"So, my son-in-law can work in my shop. He insisted on helping me with my metal welding. Since he can't just walk into the village during the day, I bring him to work in the shop at night through here."
"That's amazing," Celena was amazed with his compassion. "But… how are you going to close the hole back up?"
"I was hoping to get the help of the princess," Morrison smiled at Star who last all color to her face as her heart fell into her stomach.
"You…." She was at a loss of words.
"I know who you are."
"How long?"
"Ever since you came into my store. Come one, how many gals these days with blonde hair cover their faces? I will admit, the first time you came in my shop, I had my doubt. But seeing how you carried yourself and the way you acted with others, I knew that I was doing business with the lost princess."
"So why didn't you just turn me in?" Star feared asking.
"First off, it is not my business to know you ran away. Secondly, you are a Princess. I can't imagine what life would be like being of royal blood. I'm sure you have your reasons, I don't need to know them, for what you did. Maybe this is even a good thing for you. My only hope is that the through all you have been through, you will return to be Queen of these people. Let what knowledge you've gain influence your decisions for the better of the people." Morrison bowed to Star. Star felt overwhelmed with everything had had happened today, but a new sense of obligation towards the people of Mewni began to spark within her. She smiled at Morrison who stood tall once again with a smile on his face.
"Thank you… for everything you have done for us today," Star thanked him.
"Pleasure is mine. Now, your majesty, if you don't mind," Morrison tilted his head to the rock.
"It would be my pleasure," Star curtsied and pulled out her wand. With a flick of her wrist the rock began to roll back into place.
"Until we meet again!" Morrison laughed as the rock finally obstructed their view of him. Celena and Star stood silently, still processing everything that had happened.
"I like him," Celena offered an honest comment with a warm smile. Star return the gesture with one of her own.
Jackie swung happily on a swing with Marco pushing her gently. It wasn't the thrill that a child would get, trying to reach ever hire, instead it was that soft swinging where the main thrill is knowing that that important someone will be right behind you to reassure you that they haven't left. Even though it brought joy to Jackie's heart, it made Marco feel uneasy. In front of him was the girl of his dreams where, just hours ago, became his girlfriend. She was a fun loving, thrill seeking teen whose beauty was only matched by her amazing personality. It was all he ever wanted. But something deep down inside a little voice told him that he was wishing he was with someone else. That everything that he was doing was wrong and that he has made a mistake. A fat that he had tried to ignore to make the most of this moment. He was happy, or so he told himself. Then, all those feelings were interrupted with a new feeling. One of which that felt of urgency to get home; that a certain someone was only minutes away from getting home, or at least that is what it felt like. He let Jackie's body return to him to take hold of her by the waist and bring her close to him.
"I hate to do this, but I need to get going," Marco spoke softly into her ear. She turned to him.
"What? Already?"
"Yeah. I need to be home before Star or else she will know we came to Earth," Marco explained. Jackie stood from the swing to face him.
"Star? What does she have to do with any of this?" Jackie became offended. Marco scratched the back of his head.
"Nothing. I just don't want her to get upset that I came back without her. You know he loves seeing everyone."
"Really?"
"Of course, Jackie."
"So, it has nothing to do with us?"
"No." Jackie let a smile creep onto her face again.
"Alright Diaz. I hate to see you go but I understand. Just… hurry back," Jackie pleaded as she put her hands on his face.
"I will," Marco leaned down to kiss her. Even though the kiss was sweet, guilt made its way into it; a feeling he just couldn't shake off. A sight that Jana and Tom couldn't bear to see.
"How is this going to end?" Janna said.
"Probably very tragically. Marco has just dug his own grave. No matter what the outcome is, someone is going to get hurt," Tom said sincerely.
"Unfortunately," Janna added. "Don't go thinking I'm going to be kissing you goodbye," Janna smiled deviously at Tom.
"Not even in your wildest dreams," Tom replied.
"Tom!" Marco called for him.
"Yeah! I gotcha!" Tom responded. He then turned to Janna. "Keep it creepy," Tom winked at her.
"Keep it heated," Janna responded as she watched Tom run up to Marco. Jackie stood next to Janna as they watched the boys disappear in a burst of flames.
The air was growing moist as the day began to retreat for the night. A moist wind mingled with the warm air, causing an increase in humidity. Despite all that had happened and all the turmoil, Celena was able to walk home with a content heart. She got to experience her first Mewman village where she got to indulge in their restaurants and taste the sweets of their candy shops. Not to mention her new dress, despite all the running they did she managed to hold on to her dress. Star remained quiet most of the walk home. She was too buys pondering the feelings that she had received form Marco. She desperately wanted to convince herself that she was wrong about this feeling and that he was going to be home when they arrived. Now, they found themselves just down the path. Celena turned to her side to find that Marco and Tom were approaching them. Celena put a devious look on her face.
"Here comes your boyfriend," Celena told Star who redden at the very thought.
"Celena!" Star jumped but turned to the directions Celena nodded her head to. See…. He has been her on Mewni the whole time. Star told herself. When he smiled, she had to greet him with one of her own for that, for some reason, had the power to wash away her doubts and fears. It convinced her that everything was alright. Star's face grew hot as he carried a few chicken doves; he had gone hunting before the girls returned. Then there was Tom. Suddenly, all the good feelings were replaced with frustrations
"So, you didn't take him into the woods and shoot him?" Star joked as Marco came to stand in front of her.
"Hey!" Tom retorted.
"Nah. Ain't much of a hunter but he makes a good receiving dog," Marco chuckled.
"Hey!" Tom's yell grew louder. They began to walk back to the house together.
"So, how was your guys' day?" Marco walked next to Star.
"Good! It was good. All until the end…." Star smiled nervously.
"Really? What happened?"
"That's a long story. I'll tell you when we get home. How about you?"
"Oh! Uh…good. Just been hanging out with Tom all day," Marco laughed nervously. Doubt filled Star as she watched his display.
"What…." Star began to say as she saw Marco turn his attention to the house. She looked as well and notice a large, dark figure circling their house.
"Some is walking around our house," Marco placed his hand on the pommel of his sword. Star took the bow from Marco's other hand. "Quietly," Marco whispered to the group as they nodded. They moved quickly to the side of the house and crept along the wall. Marco was able to peek around the corner to see the figure had its back turned to them. Marco turned to the group and motioned with his head. In a quick moment, the group sprinted around the corner and charged the figure. The figure jumped 10 feet into the and behind the group. Star, Tom and Celena watched in surprise as the figure landed behind him. Marco was the only one who had reacted. Once the figure landed on its feet, Marco swung his sword and sent the figure flying; landing on its' shoulders. Star finally snapped out of it, ran to the figure and placed a foot on its chest with an arrow pulled back and aiming at his face. Marco had appeared at her side with his place pointed at its neck.
"Vait! I mean no harm! I just—Karate boy? Star girl?" The figure looked up in shock.
"Buff frog!" Star and Marco yelled in unison as they found themselves assaulting an old friend.