Alice: (Terrible Mario accent) Hey Pisanos!

Ultrra: (Not-so-bad Mario accent) It's-a the Super Tomboy and-a The Super Beast-a Show!

Alice: Yeeeeeah! Let's get hooked on the brothers!

(Both Alice and Ultrra jam out to the hip, totally cool '80's Super Mario Bros. Theme Song rap)

Alice: That's right pisanos, it's time for another update. ^_^ But first!

Ultrra: (Sings) Review mail tiiiiime~

Alice: Wow Ultrra, that wasn't half bad! O_O

Ultrra: Thank you very much

Alice: So before I start, firstly (Hands Ultrra an airhorn) Take this.

Ultrra: Alice...in most of our interactions you usually confuse me. But this is new. So uh, what the hell is this for? XD

Alice: Anytime you think I'm going to give away a future spoiler, air horn me. XD

Ultrra: Alright, if you insist. X)

Alice: Okay, yes! The Ninji will play a huuuuuuge role in the future. They're not forgotten. You're correct to assume that they're lurking around somewhere. I'm glad my work inspires you! ^_^ It goes both ways, your reviews, favorites, adds, everything inspires me! ^_^

Ultrra: Just know I'm going to abuse the HELL out of this air horn. C'mon, I wanna use it! XD

Alice: Hmm, interesting. You're thinking Taurus will?

Ultrra: ^_^ (blows air horn) ERRRRRRT!

Alice: XD Okay...uh...next review...Yep, when the new smash bros comes out in...winter? I'm just going to be like 'you want pain, here's my friend code...thing...' XD Prince Prick!? XDDDDDD Omg XDDDDDDD Omg, I've gone into my ugly laugh now. I try to update fast, well, as fast as I can but I think more reviewers like long chapters versus quicker reviews...? Right? O_O

Ultrra: You know, I too would like Bowser to storm into a council meeting and just...well, for a lack of terms, just smack the paint off folks XDD I understand that it's probably the last thing a king should do, but it seems very Bowserly. Then he can limp out XD

Alice: XD When Wolfe did the ballerino walk, he's a trained hunter, so he can be quiet when he concentrates and wishes to. But his normal personality is loud and bold. :) I hope I've made this clear in this chapter. Bowser didn't contact the Koopalings 'cause the Firelands are monitoring his moves closely. If he tells his kids 'I'm cool, don't worry about me' it could get back to the Firelands who would a) make him leave or b) just give him unnecessary grief. Though Bowser's going to

Ultrra: (blows airhorn) ERRRRTT!

Alice: Dang it. XD Oh no sister, O_O I totally had to learn to write well. :) I have several old fics on here and if you skim through them you can see where I'm improved. Or at least I hope you can see improvement. XP

Ultrra: Really? I see no improvement. X)

Alice: You can shut 'cha mouth. XP Hey! It has been awhile! ^_^ (waves) I'm glad you like rereading the story. I actually reread books 'cause there's tons of things I always miss when I read it a first time. :) Hmm, I'm not sure about a sequel O_O But we'll see ;D Though if you asked, you could probably get me to. XDD No for real, I would...I'm also very bribable. Like very...

Ultrra: XD Lol I can't remember what century King Boo is from but he's AMAZING. XD You can be sure you're not bored with him around.

Alice: No, this story doesn't end here. ^_^ I think (looks at notes) we're halfway through? Hey! (waves unawkwardly) Finals are a great time to find a good story! Just read it on your study break! :) (thinks) Ah Daisy and her romantic prowess...thing. X) Yeah, sorry but not sorry ;). If she

Ultrra: (Airhorns) ERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRTT! X)

Alice: (Sigh) Okay. It's time to begin the sto

ERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRT!

Alice: What was THAT for? O_O That wasn't even a spoiler.

Ultrra: Yeah I know. I just had to get that out of my system XD. Also Alice writes everything. The crazy, perky author-girl whose blood is like 50% sugar and 50% coffee concentrate writes 99.9% of this story. Me? I just look it over and either say, 'hey, not bad' or 'what in the world is this' all credit goes to her. X)

Alice: Aww, stank you very much Ultrra. ^_^

Ultrra: Yes. stank me very much. You guys read, review and enjoy! (blows air horn) ERRRRRRTTTT!


Beta by: BI0


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


The awakening sky was a slice of both night and the blossoming new day, oozing with rich blues, breaths of indigo and purples and the occasional dawning oranges winked in the atmosphere.

Alabaster had walked into my room with a tray of freshly baked honey tarts and fragrant, warm milk tea. It couldn't have been later than four AM.

Hair askew in a nest of crazed curls, I grumbled incoherent grunts, groggily shoveling food into my face as Alabaster happily prepped Firefly's baby Fireflower formula. He tested the bottle and handed it to my pet who eagerly sucked down his breakfast with noisy, happy slurps.

Eyes half-closed from sleep and irritated from being awoken too soon, I turned and shot a lethargic glare at Firefly, "Fire, stop drinkin' so fast...You're gonna get sick."

Firefly pouted, hissing and flapping his leaves angrily but he eventually slowed down, consuming his breakfast at a reasonable rate. Alabaster collected my finished plates and smirked, "Can't blame him for being so mad. You do look like a swamp monster."

I arched an eyebrow, "Oh? You want to make fun of me huh? Alabaster, don't go down that road with me. Don't do it."

Alabaster threw his arms out in a playful, challenging gesture, "Oh I'm goin' alright, Sister. Wha'cha gonna do about it?"

"Don't do it. I'll own you in Mom jokes. Besides, you should be extra nice to me today," I smirked.

"And why's that?" he huffed, "I'm not paid to be nice to you."

"Actually I think you are," I laughed, "Besides, if you're nice to me, I just might tell you that Peach is arriving at the palace today."

Alabaster halted, nearly stumbling and falling on his face. His jaw dropped with little dignity as his eyes gleamed like stars, "Puh-Puh-Princess?" he squeaked, "Princess Peach!? S-She's coming here!? Today!?"

I laughed at Alabaster's unabashed fawning as he gazed into the distance with a loopy, dreamy smile. I'm sure there should have been sparkles and bright red hearts floating above his head as he blushed brightly.

Alabaster giggled gleefully, slapping his hands to his cheeks and blushing the brightest shade of red I've seen, "Princess Peach!? Princess Peach! Ahahaha! She's so preeeeetty~! And her smile! It's like a sea of pearls! A-And she's so delicate! Like a pearl...uh...pearl statuette! Teeheehee! Did you know she smells like strawberries!? Like strawberries!"

"Well," I smirked, "She'll be here by six am, arriving with Unc."

Alabaster was nearly floating, "I think...I-I'll drop by and say hi. I wish my room would be close to hers..."

I knew good and well that Peach would be arriving with Mario, her unofficial boyfriend who she had wrapped around her pretty, dainty fingers, but I didn't want to violently pop Alabaster's love bubble.

Heh. Not yet anyways.

Alabaster picked up my remaining silverware and waltzed out of my door, singing and spinning, "La la la la~! Princess Peach my lady, would you like a dance with me? I'll take you on a ride baby! La la la~!"

With disdain, I rolled my eyes, hopping inelegantly out of bed and heading to my closet. If I was to say good bye to the suitors I'd have to be dressed and presentable soon. I quickly skimmed through my dresses, choosing the plainest of my yellow gowns and heading to the washroom for a quick shower.

When I stepped out, combing the last tangles from my drenched scarlet locks, Lady Angora was in my closet, thumbing through my wardrobe with her usual unimpressed expression; scrunched, twisted red lips and an upturned nose. Her thin, white fingers hovered between two gowns as she finally turned to look at me, "Good Morning Princess."

I fell into a curtsy, "Lady Angora."

She quickly swept her eyes over my form, studying my dress and if it complimented my shape. She nodded to herself in quiet approval, "Nice choice. Very fashion forward and slimming. Your waist looks enviously thin."

"Thank you."

I think. She'd never know I was stuffing my face like a pig earlier.

"Your suitors are in the guest suites, please gather them around, I hear your cousin's carriage is nearly here."

I smiled largely, "Peach is almost here!?"

"Yes, and so is the erm, 'jovial' Mushroom King," Angora's face remained straight and if she was struggling to do so, she had mastered hiding it well.

She said jovial, but she wanted to say foolish. Idiotic even. Heh, I got you, Angora.I nodded, "Alright, I'll go and get the suitors, I can't wait to see Peach!"

"Hold."

Lady Angora approached. She stared at me, analyzing my facial features before revealing a creamy pink tube of lipstick. She carefully applied the cosmetic to my lips, brows pinched with concentration and once the task was completed, she pulled away.

The lightest trace of a smile warmed her face, "There. Perfect. Now you may leave. Go and see the suitors and your beauteous cousin."

I curtsied one last time before leaving my bedchambers. I power-walked through the halls, excitement fueling my strides; I'm so stoked!

Peach will be here! I'll have someone, a dear friend, sister really I can talk to about all my problems and worries. Someone who will listen to my problems and not judge for weakness or inadequacy, but will serve as a source of strength. She'll offer some older sisterly advice and then probably recommend relaxing with a manicure, facial or some form feminine pampering.

And yet at the same time with gaining Peach, Uncle Apricotto and Mario's company, I would lose the suitors who would be returning to the safety of their kingdoms. In light of the quarrel between Sarasaland and the Aqualands, it seemed as if their kingdoms were neither condemning nor boasting support for Sarasaland. Simple neutrality.

Let's hope things remained neutral. Father had to meet with the Aqualands within two days' time and the kingdoms—ally and neutral alike—were going to be carefully watching Sarasaland with microscopic acuity.


It wasn't too out of the way to find the suitor's floor. Maids had graciously informed me of Ryu's whereabouts. Apparently the Shinobi Lord was an insane early riser and had been outside meditating in the predawn air; he had actually startled several of the on duty guards when they had walked passed him in the front lawn, mediating in the lotus position.

Ryu had greeted them all politely before closing his eyes and returning to his restoring trance. Zero was in a meeting with the Great Sarasaland Elder Council and Luigi was downstairs happily gorging himself on the castle's bakery.

Fresh pastries were ready to go by four AM every morning, early enough for the Emperor to eat before his first set of meetings each day.

Silver I had passed on his way to the Sandstone library. His face had colored like a rose as he uttered a soft greeting. He murmured about wanting to learn of Sarasaland's famous tea ceremony. I loaned him a relevant book with little problem and told him to return it when he finished.

"Take the book with you, I know it's going to be a long journey back to the Moonstone Kingdom," I smiled, "Just mail it back when you've finished, 'kay?"

Silver appeared distressed and shook his head so fast, his hair and eyes blurred, "I-I possibly couldn't! I don't w-want to impose on Sarasaland..."

"You wouldn't. What's the harm with bringing the book back at a later date? Take it."

His big, bright blue eyes were nearly puppy-like, "Y-You sure?"

"Yes Silv. Friends let friends borrow their stuff. Just be ready to go downstairs soon, it'll be time to leave."

His expression warmed. Silver's faint smile made his eyes seem so much brighter and bluer, "Alright then...I'll...borrow it and bring it back. I promise."

"There ya go, Silv!" As Silver walked away, I slapped his back with amicable companionship.

And nearly sent him crashing to the floor.

Heh oops.

"Sorry Silv!" I laughed worriedly.

"I-It's okay!" His face was as red as Mario's cap as he hurried towards the library.

Well, I hope I didn't make that awkward. Silver disappeared into the library as I continued to retrieve my last suitor. I approached Wolfe's room and his off-key, loud singing filtered into the corridor. The door was cracked open just enough to peer inside.

Wolfe rested comfortably on one knee, scrubbing a sudsy, agitated-looking Puppo in a miniature broggy tub. I laughed, wrapping my knuckles against the doorframe before he replied with a melodic, silly, "Enteeer~!"

I shoved the door open, smiling widely, "Heya Wolfe!"

"Well hey there Bea-u-ti-ful!" he shot a grin from over his shoulder, "Don't mind us, Pup's just getting a well-deserved bath before we head off on the road."

Puppo growled a low, rumbling sound of discontent.

"And he looks absolutely miserable!" I laughed.

"That's because I haven't used the Canine super awesome, super special tonic," Wolfe wagged his eyebrows before procuring a thumb-sized metallic vial. He shook it with little care before carelessly dumping the entire vial all over Puppo's soaked pelt.

As Puppo grew more antsy, squirming and whimpering, Wolfe began to gently massage the creamy concoction into his guardian's blue pelt.

I watched with growing fascination as the apprehensive Chow began to slowly unwind. Puppo's stiff, tense muscles melted like butter. After just a few minutes Puppo's eyes were half-lidded and heavy with relaxation.

"Oh how cute!" I cooed, stepping closer, "He looks so chill!"

"The concoction's a family secret and it will work to soothe even the most irate Chows, Broggys, Blitties, horses, anything!" Wolfe continued to scrub Puppo's hide in soothing circles.

His fingernails gently combed and scratched Puppo's skin under his blue coat, "It's our top selling product and it sells faster than hotcakes!"

"He certainly looks like he's enjoying himself," I hummed.

Wolfe peered up with a large, vibrant grin; whenever he smiled it seemed as if his eyes glowed, "Wanna join? He won't fuss anymore. He's basically putty."

"Sure!"

I ignored my expensive chiffon dress touching the wet flooring as Wolfe scooted over. I pulled my gloves off, ignoring my fresh silver manicure and quickly dove into the task.

I cupped a palm full of warm sudsy water and gently streamlined it over Puppo's hide. A second handful of water removed dirt and grime easily and shiny, soft, wet fur followed. Wolfe leaned back on his haunches, smiling with an easy, lazy air as he watched.

"Not afraid to mess up those pretty hands, huh?" Wolfe asked softly. He picked up a towel and mindlessly dried his soapy hands.

"Dirt doesn't bother me. In fact, I feel like dirt brings character."

Wolfe arched a dubious brow, "Character? Uh, what does dirt and character have to do with anything?"

"I think having dirt on your clothes means you've accomplished something for the day, or at least tried to," I grinned, "I'm notorious for returning home dirty. As a child I nearly drove Lady Angora insane. She used to scrub my skin raw, until I glowed pink."

As I continued to scrub and clean Puppo's dark blue pelt, I realized Wolfe was carefully observing me. His expression was soft, relaxed and yet his golden eyes were sharp, alert of every minute move I made.

Despite being carefree and high-spirited, Wolfe was a whole lot sharper and perceptive than others accredited him. Canines had eerily sharp senses and though Wolfe usually downplayed them, every now and then he would say things that clued others into his true insightfulness.

Like yesterday when Wolfe had relayed his story to the elders, he had immediately smelt an odd chemical on Bowser and put two and two together.

In fact, large traces of the chemical Wolfe had smelt were present in Bowser's bloodstream. And here I was, being watched by those intense amber eyes that seemed to glow under the room's light like twin moons.

"So is this what your family business is?" I asked, trying to ignore the weight of his stare, "You have pet care products?"

"Yeah," he smiled softly, "Heh. There's actually a kinda funny story behind it. Originally Ma went on a business trip to Nimbusland to see to some puffy prince's sick broggy."

I arched a brow, "Lady Kitsune's a veterinarian?"

"Eh, not really, but we've raised, bred and taken care of enough Chows to know how to care for them. So Ma got the fluffy prince's broggy healthy and bathed him with our now top-selling shampoo. The King and Queen of Nimbusland were so impressed with how shiny their pooch's fur was. Ma gave 'em the bottle to keep and it spread like a wild craze! People were chasing her down, demanding for the amazing shampoo and suddenly a secret formula my ancestors had been using to spoil their Chows was a worldwide phenomenon!"

Wolfe's smile was electric as he continued in an excited voice, "Things just got crazy when Princess Peach—your pink cousin—endorsed it for her pet blitty, Sprinkles. Then even King Bowser used it for his chomp kennels. It's amazing! We've become an empire almost overnight! Literally! We hardly know what to do with all the coins streaming in! We give most of it away to veterinaries and stray broggy and blitty shelters. Homeless, uncared for animals...kinda sad huh?"

So Wolfe had a soft spot for strays? I knew it! He was like a tall, gigantic kid who never grew up. His heart was worn proudly on his sleeve and his true emotions always overflowed in his eyes like a flooded riverbank. It was a good thing.

I smiled, "I like that, your people are still so humble and down to earth."

"Heh yeah, what would we look like being all uppity and snooty?" Wolfe laughed gently, emitting a soft, smooth sound. Yet again I noticed that when Wolfe spoke to me, the rough, scratchy growl left his voice.

"Every Saturday the entire town basically gets drunk; doctors, police and judges included. Of course the judges, nurses and docs have to show more decorum you know. Because of the station of their prestigious jobs."

I smirked, "Oh really?"

"Yeah, the doctors only get publicly drunk after eight p.m." Wolfe and I laughed together at that one.

Wolfe went back to carefully scrubbing Puppo's fur. I took a handful of suds and glanced at Wolfe from the corner of my vision.

When his attention was fully engrossed on Puppo, I smoothed the suds against his cheek. He blinked before a raging, wild grin cut across his face like a blade.

The Canine warrior took a handful of water and splashed me across the shoulder. I screeched happily, fumbling and grabbing the nearest bottle. I squirted a goopy glob of purple doggy shampoo into his hair.

Wolfe barked with rancorous laughter and lunged for me, slipping and sliding against the oily surface of the floor. I scored a direct hit to the face this time, quickly shoving a handful of dog shampoo against his nose.

Wolfe cried out, half laughing and growling as I skid across the floor, soaking the hem of my dress with a concoction of shampoo and water, "Stars, you're kicking my ass!" his eyes narrowed, "Okay, here comes the Big Bad Wolfe!"

The Canine heir lunged forward and in three surprisingly quick, coordinated strides, Wolfe was on me like a shadow. I shrieked as two large hands gripped my hips and in a dizzying whirl, I was lifted in the air. The expanse of Wolfe's smile could light the darkest alcove as his golden eyes glowed with a wicked sense of victory.

"You're pretty fast, but not faster than a Canine warrior," he laughed softly, "Know what I'm gonna do to you...?"

With the soft coaxing of calloused fingers, I was brought to face level where I was introduced to that wonderfully vibrant smile and a set of white, sharp teeth. Wolfe playfully nuzzled his cheek against mine before planting a surprisingly soft kiss against the side of my face.

"One last one for the road," he muttered softly.

The soft, ticklish lips that once danced upon my cheek leisurely trailed over my mouth. Wolfe adjusted his grip to bolter my entire weight with a single arm. A single arm. Impressed, I could feel a blush rising to my face and pulled away long enough to see him shoot a self-satisfied grin my way.

"Can Mister Hotshot Shinobi do that?" Wolfe purred in a low register, grinning wickedly, "Can Ryu 'the dragon' do—ACK!"

Wolfe must have taken a misstep as he suddenly slipped, tilting backwards precariously before falling over completely. His lady-killer persona evaporated like mist as he squealed, tumbling gracelessly into the pet bathtub.

Puppo quickly leapt out of the tub as his ward plummeted with a loud splash, completely drenched. Wolfe took the brunt of the fall, sopping wet as the entire hemline of my dress was soaked through.

Wide-eyed, we shared an incredulous stare before I burst into laughter. I grinned at him wickedly, "And Mister Shinobi certainly can't do that!"

Mortified, miffed or maybe even a healthy mixture of both, Wolfe's face flushed several amusing different shades of red. He remained slack-jawed and wordless, as if his brain couldn't believe that had just happened to him.

I laughed at his cute expression before I leaned forward and pressed a quick kiss against his cheek. His eyes doubled in size as I smiled, "You don't need to worry about him. You've got your own magnetic charm that slays."

None of my suitors should have to try to one up each other. No one was going to out electrify Wolfe's glowing, energetic persona.

No suitor would be sweeter than Luigi, no one more caring than Silver, or even as mysterious as Ryu. And no one would certainly be more cunning than Zero or more charismatic than Bowser.

Wolfe was naturally fun and happy and sweet in a rough, off-colored way, and I liked him as is. None of the suitors should try to be like the other guy. Wolfe must have liked what he heard as he grinned sheepishly, the flagrant blush fading several notches, "Heh. Hey Daisy?"

I peered up at him with a grin, "Yeah?"

"Don't forget me, okay?" His tone took on a somber register, "I'll write you, and even call ya if you'd like. We don't have the internet in Land's End so I can't send those...mail things. I'll do my best to keep in touch."

"Wolfe, you're too awesome to forget. I'm an awesome penpal and will write you back."

He smiled softer, more sincere, "Alright then. I'll hold you to it. Well I gotta change now that I'm soaked. I can't even imagine your pop's face if I showed up looking like this."

I took that as a subtle cue to get the hell out. I had to change as well; it wouldn't do for the Princess of Sarasaland to appear in court with a ruined dress. Lady Angora would probably violently end me if I tried such a thing.

We walked to the doorframe and Wolfe seemed to be lingering, deliberating over something. He laughed and ran a hand through his long hair, "You know what I was thinking?"

I tilted my head curiously, "What?"

He smirked secretively and tilted his head. His eyes shone a darker shade of gold, "You'd look really good with Canine tattoos on your cheeks."

I blinked, "You think so? I do think they look really cool! Can I have blue and red ones like you?"

Wolfe stopped smiling and stared at me as if I were mental. Then he actually started to laugh boisterously, "Wha!? Geesh! How did you miss that!?"

Still grinning widely, he clutched my shoulders and playfully shook me, "Daisy! I was blatantly hitting on you."

I blinked again, "You were?"

Someone behind me cleared their throat with well-timed precision, "As much as I enjoy Wolfe's humorous lack of success when it comes to wooing and the princess' questionable romantic acuity, isn't it time we got going?"

The new voice belonged to an amused Ryu, who was leaned against our doorframe. Wolfe glared playfully at Ryu, "Whatever Ry. Just give me a second. I'm not going to say goodbye being all wet and crusty."

Our congregation must have been popular as Zero stopped by, smirking, "That's how you usually look though Wolfe; wet and crusty. Emphasis on crusty."

"Bye Ryu. Bye Zero," Wolfe said with intentional curtness and with that he slammed the door on their faces.

Zero held a contemplative gaze, "Hmm, if I knew it was going to be that easy to get rid of Wolfe all long, I would have said those words a long time ago. Princess Sarasaland, do I even want to know why you and Wolfe are soaked?"

"You can ask but I'm not going to tell you," I grinned.

He ignored me, "Once your attire is proper, we can ship the foreign princes out."

Ryu arched a brow, "Happy to see the competition go?"

"Very," Zero smirked.

While Zero and Ryu were exchanging congenial banter, I pivoted on my heel and sauntered away, quickly heading for my wardrobe.


Wolfe walked down the hall, duff bag slung over one shoulder and Puppo perched comfortably on the other. He whistled as he strolled through the luxurious guest suite hallways, drinking in the lavish decor that spoke of royalty and opulence.

"These digs sure are nice," he muttered to himself, "Fancy-smancy chandeliers, brand new carpets and who are all these people in these portraits?"

All the oil painting portraits were carefully arranged in immaculate straight lines. Each frame held the three quarter's view of haughty looking men and women dressed weirdly; they wore really puffy clothes, powdery wigs and poofy pants and dresses. Were these Daisy's ancestors?

One of the black and white photos held a really cute adolescent girl with long ebony hair and a warm smile. Her smile was even contagious enough that it made Wolfe beam while he viewed her image.

I wonder what she looks like now...If she's even still alive. The entire Sarasaland royal lineageexcept the cute dark haired girllooked so serious and angry, as if they had a really long, crusty old pole jammed up their ass cr

"Hey Dogboy."

Simultaneously Wolfe and Puppo perked up, "Huh did you hear that Pups?"

Puppo's ears perked :New voice. Sounded like Big Mean Turtle voice:

Wolfe scratched his chin, "Hmm you know, it does sound like King B...Well, I gotta get going so"

This time there was an edge of impatience in the mysterious voice, "Dogboy!"

"That voice does sound a lot like King B," Wolfe mused aloud as he scratched his chin, "Y'know...I wonder if"

"Hey Idiotface! I'm talking to you here!"

Moments later an irritated, lumbering Koopa king tromped out of his personal suite, glaring down at the Canine heir with no small amount of annoyance.

Wolfe blinked before jovially raising a hand in greeting and jubilantly calling out, "Heya King B! You're looking grehmm, well actually you don't look great. Though your bruises are almost unnoticeable. At least you don't look like you got slapped in the face by a bag of bricks anymore. More like slapped twice in the face by a bag of bricks..."

Bowser sighed with rising impatience, pinching the bridge of his snout with his pointer claw and thumb. He could feel the violent urge to punch Wolfe through a wall increasing exponentially, "Dogboy?"

Wolfe beamed, "Yes?"

"Shut the hell up."

Wolfe pouted with exaggerated zest, "Well that's just plain rude..."

"Look, try something new for once in your life and shut up," Bowser growled, "What I'm about to say is something I rarely if ever do."

Wolfe snapped his fingers in an exaggerated sort of victorious 'ah-ha' moment and grinned, "Bathe!"

"One more time," Bowser lowered his head, glaring ominously as he brandished his fist threateningly, "Just say one more frickin' funny thing Assmunch, and I squeeze all the pink gooey jelly out of your head."

Still unphased, Wolfe laughed lightheartedly, "Okay fiiiine. Say what you have to say. I'm listening."

Bowser huffed, before clearing his throat purposefully, "Good. Now that you've stopped having diarrhea of the mouth, I can finally. Talk. So, uh, look. I've never got to thuh to t-tha...to thank...you...for..."

The King took a deep breath, and looked away before barely whispering, "...saving my ass..."

Wolfe's impish grin diminished into a true, warmer smile. The Canine heir placed an amicable palm onto the King Koopa's armored shoulder, making sure to avoid the sharp spines, "Hey. It's no biggie King B. You're a greatuh, more like not so badhmm well, you are kind of bad. But not bad, bad, you know?"

Bowser kept a blank, hostile stare, "No. I don't know."

"Well, anyways, you're welcome," with that, Wolfe shoved Bowser's armored shoulder playfullyrealizing belatedly that he moved back instead of Bowser, "Next time you ought to come to Land's End and we'll have a riot! I've got to jet...so really, stop by sometime and we can hang! Now let's pull it in for a good bye hug"

As Wolfe approached, arms open and inviting, Bowser growled so fiercely that Wolfe instantly pulled away, laughing his ass off, "Alright. No hug then. Take care King B!"

Wolfe waved one last time as he turned and headed down the hall with a happy bounce in his step. The King watched him walk off with half a smirk on his face. He shook his head, muttering with no true venom, "What a toolbox."

With that out of the way, Bowser turned and closed the door to his suite. Hell no was he going to say bye to those losers. They were trying to steal his Flower. They could all kiss his glorious spiked ass.

He received a happy, welcoming babyish Koopaling chirrup, "Up and at 'em already, huh Tyke?"

Kooples babbled happily, squeaking and beginning to play with his brightly colored building blocks. Bowser watched him for a few moments more, "Which reminds me, I'm gonna call room service so we can get some friggin' chow. Two studly, masculine hunks being famished is a crime, ain't that right, Littleshell?"

Kooples squeaked in agreement.

"That's right, we're too damn masculine to handle."

Bowser walked gingerly to avoid aggravating any healing wounds. The phone rang in an annoying cadence, causing Kooples to peer up at him.

The king was in such a good mood that he absently picked up the phone, not thinking twice to check the caller I.D as he answered, "It's the King."

"Ah King Bowser, it's so good to hear your voice."

And just like that his good mood was obliterated. Bowser silently swore; the Koopa on the other end of the line was not only a Firelands' elder but the head friggin' honcho of them all. Clawdus Koopa.

Clawdia's father.

Yep. Sometime's the phrase 'oh shit' just didn't cover it.

Clawdua Koopa, who by the way, didn't like Bowser since the day he divorced his beauteous daughter. They butted heads on every type of political issue and on good days they disagreed, whereas on terrible days they were growling and snarling, mere steps away from having a throw down.

It was ironic considering that the twosome were very similar in personality: both Koopas were powerful, both were filthy rich and neither Koopa had a long temper nor the ability to accept any form of insubordination. And most importantly both Koopas were dually feared and respected amongst peers and subordinates alike.

Bowser's voice instantly fell into a cool, emotionless tone, "Governor, what can I trouble you for?"

"Good morning King Bowser. We of the Firelands wanted to let you know that we wish for our king's swift recovery," his voice was so genial and smooth that had Bowser not known his true character, he would have believed the sincerity behind the governor's saccharine words, "As your most loyal subjects, we of the Firelands Council were...confused on a few details and we certainly hoped you would be able to clarify a few things for us."

"Have you spoken to my advisors?" Bowser grunted.

"Oh yes of course, Sire," the other Koopa purred urbanely, "Advisor Kamek and the other one have remained stubbornly stagnant, refusing to inform their loyal governing council."

The other one. They wouldn't even acknowledge Kammy by name since she was female. Bowser took an inaudible breath, reaching into the deepest recesses of his being to swiftly supplement the haughty, formal diction that was heralded as law within royal court, "If my advisors saw fit to withhold knowledge until my return, in which I would issue a conference to address any and all concerns, then I will not move against their judgment."

"That is good and well Sire, however the Firelands is very aware that you are being housed within Sarasaland. We do not believe that Sarasaland is responsible nor reliable enough to protect our reigning king. In fact, we question remaining allied to such an unreliable kingdom."

Bowser was slowly beginning to crush the phone in his large hands as the plastic receiver slowly crumbled with each passing second. By now he was speaking through bared fangs, "I said a conference will be held at a later date. What's not clear about that!?"

Clawdia's father continued as if he had never spoken, "In fact, we think it best for you to evacuate the kingdom immediately and trash the Sarasaland-Darklandian treaty. We would like this action concluded within twenty four hours otherwise"

"Since when does a governor tell a king what to do?" Bowser growled audibly, "By the way, do you still own that chain of oil refineries in Firestone City?"

"Of course my king, they are prosperous and business is"

"then if you were smart," Bowser's voice dropped into a frightening snarl, his words starting to harshly mesh into guttural growls, "you and the rest of the Firelands council would drop this issue now. Otherwise I'll see your refinery closed so fast your shell will still be spinning. Am I in anyway unclear Clawdus?"

There was a momentary pause on the other side of the line. Bowser smirked, picturing the elder Koopa fuming at being threatened and told off so flagrantly.

It wasn't very often that the highest ranking Firelands councilkoopa got his ass handed to him. But if there was one Koopa who could do it, it was the King of the Darklands who held that power.

"Of course not Lord Bowser," Clawdus' voice lost all good humor.

"Good," Bowser hoped Clawdus could hear the grin in his voice, "Don't bother Advisors Kamek and Kamelia about the issue anymore. Don't let me hear word that you've brought up the topic again. I've spoken."

"Yes Lord Bowser," Clawdus's voice sounded eerily robotic, "Have a good day, Sire."

"I will."

"Enjoy your time in Sarasaland, My King," Clawdus' monotone suddenly gained a wicked snarl, "your time with your little pet human princess grows short."

And before the King could respond, dial tone filled the air. The Firelands just was not going to give this up. They were going to do their damnedest to see the Sarasaland-Darklandian treaty tarnished. Obliterated.

Despite the increased profitable revenues from opening new shops in Sarasaland and the brand new positive public relations the treaty brought the Darklands, the Firelands only wanted to destroy their treaty for reasons Bowser was sure involved Daisy.

It was through the Sarasaland-Darklandian treaty that the Mushroom kingdom set aside its previous reservations. Not even a month after Daisy's Summani, the Mushroom Kingdom viewed the once errant Darklandian king as something close to 'rehabilitated' and began to slowly open trades between their two kingdoms.

Land's End, after the king had direct contact with Chieftain Kitsuneand after he soundly kicked the shit out of that fat piranhawasted very little time in talking shop and had plans to establish a few of their pet shops and veterinaries within Darklandian territories.

But no, the Firelands councilors couldn't see all this obvious favor because they viewed his fascination with the Desert princess as disgusting. They saw Daisy as nothing more than a feosaura.

Just thinking of that awful word infused Bowser with a blistering wave of fury. He slammed the phone, snapping off the receiver in the process. Kooples squealed as the edges of the king's vision blackened, his pulse quickening erratically, throbbing in tempo to his rising ire.

Incisors bared ruthlessly, Bowser clenched his trembling fists, squeezing them together so tightly that his claws were beginning to painfully cut into his scales. Then, within the swirling dark mass of festering hatred and wrath, he heard a voice.

Calm down. They want you to lose your head. They're playing this foolish game well and you will need to as well. To be upset means you're not thinking straight. If you want to protect the princess then you need your wits. Calm. Down. Regain your edge.

The voice of reason in his head interestingly enough wasn't his own but belonged to his grandfather; the voice was resonant, smooth and calming. Serous Koopa was one of the fewif not the onlyDarklandian kings renowned for his famed patience and level head.

The sonorous voice's advise had its desired effect, and with a calming breath, Bowser slowly regained his composure. Though his hands still shook from the rush of anger blazing through his veins, he was back in control.

Fatigue replaced anger as Bowser slipped back onto his bed, massaging his eyes tiredly; it felt like his eyes were scorching beneath his eyelids. Maybe I'll take a nap...it might do me a little good...

He peered across the room at Kooples, who was watching him with big, curious eyes. The Koopaling chirruped softly.

"Don't worry, some really mean Koopas were being..."

He didn't want to use the word asshole in front of a Koopaling. But when Kooples chirruped back a reply, Bowser laughed, "Yeah, doodoo heads. Exactly Kooples, good word choice."

With very little convincing, the king closed his eyes, trying not to think, to imagine a world where his kingdom was trying to wreck Flower's. He tried not to think of a world where the Darklandian soldiers, emblazoned in fierce ebon armor, descended upon Sarasaland like a poisonous mist.


By dawn's first light, the Desert sky was entangled within glittering threads of pink, amber and ruby stratosphere. The new day's morning breath was already beginning to become arid and warm, hinting at the blistering forecast to come. A large, magnificent white carriage had passed through inspections and was en route to parking curbside.

Father and I stood outside the palace as the doorman bowed, pulling the carriage's door open. Luigi waited happily at our side, bouncing on the tips of his toes. How cute, he must have been so happy to see big bro!

Out stepped the legendary Super Mario, adjusting his trademark red cap. Mario smiled warmly, turning to the doorman and gently waving him away. The doorman appeared at a loss, before bowing to the renowned hero and relinquishing his station.

Mario fell into his new role easily as he held the door open and bowed. Uncle Apricotto stepped out first, raising a hand to shield himself from the hot sun and moments later Peach's red, heeled stiletto appeared, followed by a sleek, shapely calf chased by lacy petticoats at the edge of the doorstep.

Heads turned, eyebrows of interest were quirked and Mario's expression visibly brightened. This time he took off his cap completely, pouring into an even deeper bow.

Mario chivalrously extended a hand to gently help Peach step down. In one dainty hand, Peach lifted her dress and a slew of lace petticoats, slowly taking each step with as much poise as possible.

It may have been a drawn out process but Princess Peach was gracefully on her feet and I don't think it was missed by either Father or myself how Mario shot one last admiring glance her way before closing the door. In fact, Father even peered in my direction, arching an intrigued eyebrow as I grinned largely.

"It seems someone has a roving eye," Father kept a perfectly straight face as I laughed.

"It seems as if a certain someone has caught a certain hero's eye," I beamed.

Uncle Apricotto drank in the spires of our castle with a silent awe, taking in the myriad of sun dials our ancestors had built and the golden blaze of the desert landscape. Funny enough, Uncle was so absorbed with his sight taking that his eyes grazed right passed us.

Father shook his head as I laughed and it wasn't even seconds when Unc realized we were in fact standing here. He blinked rapidly, finally seeing us. A large grin cut across his face, "HEY THERE!"

In his usual inglorious way, Unc raced up stairs and barreled passed several fleets of guards to bulrush us. Father arched a brow with a slight touch of humor and turned towards Toadux, "Who let him in here?"

Toadux barked out laughter as Unc enclosed our position in a whirlwind of fluttering robes and glittering gems, "Daaaaaisy!" Uncle Apricotto sing sang happily, arms stretched out and a crazy large grin on his face, "It's so goooood to see you Pumpkin Pie!"

Peach was 'Peachie Pie' and I was fondly dubbed 'Pumpkin Pie'. Unc showed his love overtly with lovey-dovey nicknames and armfuls of hugs, wet kisses and gifts.

"Hi Unc!" I chirruped happily.

He performed his usual greeting, picking me up in a wayward, awkward tangle of limbs and at the same time was acutely aware that I was in a dress and spun me in several quick revolutions before setting me down.

My head always swam afterwards and this time was no different as the axis of my world titled unsteadily. I laughed, staggering and stumbling as Uncle continued to gush.

"Oh you're so beautiful Pumpkin Pie!" Uncle cooed happily, pinching my left cheek, "Just like your mom! I'm starting to think the Stars cloned her! At least you don't look like your dad." He leaned in and 'whispered', "Thank the Stars for small miracles!"

"Unc it's good to see you too!" I laughed.

"Ah so swell!" Then he turned to Father and opened his arms yet again, "And there's my big, serious brother. Come on, pull it in, Sak."

It was barely noticeable when Father arched a brow; to the unsuspecting eye, Uncle's hug would look like a warm, heart-lifting gesture but truthfully it was nothing but well-disguised attack.

The moment Father moved to avoid him, Unc's friendly, bright grin turned wicked as his eyes narrowed, "C'mere big bro. Gimme a hug."

Father cut his eyes at Uncle, lips pursed, "I think not."

Uncle's crazy grin only grew more devious, "Give your little brother some sugar."

"No."

"I said come here and give me a hug damn it."

Father barely smirked, eyes thinner than fog, "No."

Uncle growled, before yelling in a squeaking, breaking voice, "I'm getting you back if it's the last thing I do!"

So for an odd, un-kingly moment, Father ducked and dodged as Uncle Apricotto pursued, lunging and trying to grab his robes to forcibly shove him into a hug.

Peach sighed thickly, pinching the bridge of her nose in building vexation as Mario, Luigi and Toadux watched the brotherly spectacle with no small thread of amusement.

Thank goodness they were doing this outside of the throne room and away from the prying eyes of the council and courtiers. Emperor Sarasaland was to be prestigious and methodical; being chased by his exuberant, spacey brother would certainly damage his image.

After several more wild dives and lunges, Uncle Apricotto was winded, panting and his temple soaked with sweat. Unc hunched over, bejeweled hands clutching his knees as he gasped for air, "Stars, t-twenty years ago I could do this all day. What h-happened!? Am I getting old!?"

"Sire, are you...alright? Is the situation handled or should I call back up?" Toadux sounded as if he'd burst out laughing at the drop of a hat.

Uncle Apricotto took one last, wild dive and narrowly missed grabbing Father's robe. Unc toppled over in a graceless heap, landing flat on his stomach with a resounding thud.

Mario quickly pulled his hat over his face so Peach wouldn't see him laughing as Luigi stuck his fist in his mouth, hoping to stifle his laughter.

Things got worse as Uncle began to throw a tantrum, wailing and kicking his legs as he slammed his fists against the floor in a petulant outburst, "Daaaamn it! First I'm getting old and now this!?"

Father snorted, turning his head away from his wailing, dismayed brother, "It's handled. Hmph. You prank a guy once and he's after you. For twenty five years."

"You're giving me a damn hug, Sakky!" A slightly winded, red-faced Uncle Apricotto bellowed angrily, rising to his feet unsteadily, "And that's final!"

"Father!"

Hands stamped on her hips and her petal pink lips twitched at the corners, Peach hissed, "Father, will you please not do this in public!?"

"But I need to prank him!" King Toadstool whined, "he got me good!"

Father laughed with surprisingly dark jubilance; from what I've heard, Father did get Unc pretty good. Even if it happened twenty-five years ago, the original palace staff still remembered the day when Kingprince back thenApricotto had three tons of maple syrup, ketchup and the girliest smelling perfume dumped on him.

To this day the staff would burst into fits of laughter as they remembered how it took a month before Unc stopped smelling womanly and with a hint of ketchup.

Father promised me he had only indulged in such 'childish games' because otherwise Uncle wouldn't stop pranking him. Peach gave one last long, pointed look at Unc before he sighed, defeated. Unc turned to Father, glaring angrily.

"This blood feud will never be settled! Never!" Uncle Apricotto bellowed, jabbing an angry, vengeful finger at Father, "but one day, one day..."

As Uncle Apricotto backed away, he stopped at the castle door and pointed 'menacingly', walking backwards into the palace so he wouldn't break eye contact with his older brother. Amused, Father smirked as Peach looked thoroughly embarrassed, "My apologies Uncle. Father is...well, you know."

"Do not apologize for your father's odditiesand quite possiblemental defects. Now then," a soft smile came to Father's lips, "I believe a certain beautiful young lady owes her Uncle a hug...?"

Peach blushed at the unexpected compliment and quickly hugged Father. When the emperor peered in the Italian hero's direction, Mario crisply removed his hat in a respectful fashion and eased into a fluid bow. Father returned his gesture with a nod before facing his niece yet again.

I turned to Peach and in one move, we both darted forward, leaping into each other's arms, laughing as Mario and Luigi initiated some sort of brotherly secret handshake.

A flood of Peach's strawberry perfume and the aromatic warmth of her golden hair settled over me as pleasantly as the warmth of a Sarasalandian summer.

After holding her in a tight embrace for several moments, she pulled away, smiling tenderly, "We're going to have a nice relaxing spa day. Just the two of us. It'll be us, the beauticians and the Chocolands cocoa clay mud mask."

"Then we can have a big ole family dinner!" Uncle Apricotto suddenly rejoined the group hug, startling everyone out of their wits.

Unc nuzzled both of our faces with silly affectionate gusto as Father shook his head. And in true Unc Apri fashion, he had totally forgotten about pranking his older brother and had moved onto the newest, most interesting topic on hand.

Mario stared at Unc blankly, "Weren't you-a inside the castle already?"

Unc titled his head like a confused puppy, "Was I? Oh yeah I was but I got bored and came to see what you guys were up to!"

"But before supper," Father stepped beside us, placing a hand on each of our shoulders, "We shall be courteous guests and see the princes off. Come, let's step inside. The others are already waiting."

"We'll have to see Grammy," Peach murmured, "I have to see for myself that she's doing well."

Uncle Apricotto's face fell, "My dear, sweet mother! The woman who gave me life! By the blinking, bloody, flaming Stars, I need to see if she's okay! I'm going right now. I'm going to march right up those stairs and see her"

Unc pivoted on his heel, ready to make good on his promise but Father was quicker. His hand leapt out and firmly held the scruff of Unc's pelt robe.

"She is fine," Father murmured comfortingly, quickly releasing Unc the moment he seemed rational, "She is resting comfortably. After we send off the royals, you can go and see her. She'd be delighted to see her granddaughter and even an errant son. Now come. Let's sojourn to the throne room."

"Sojourn," Uncle Apricotto mocked, wiggling his brows, "Whenever Sakky's around, you're gonna get those stuffy puffy ten thousand coin words!"

Mario and Luigi laughed but the second Father directed a pointed stare their way, both brothers quickly hid their laughs with coughs or the classic throat clear tactic.

I myself employed this tactic. The moment we entered the throne room, the soft mist of idle chatter evaporated, spines were tediously straightened and the heads of servants bowed.

I spied Alabaster in the corner of my vision, grinning dumbly at the sight of Peach's tall, elegant figure. He sighed happily, dreamily clapping his hands together as the heavens opened and sang upon him. Then he did an obvious double-take at the sight of Mario stepping beside her.

Bitter envy flamed Alabaster's tan skin a boiling burgundy as hellfire blazed in his eyes. Amused, I arched an eyebrow; I'd have to talk to him and make sure he didn't do anything stupid, like challenge Mario to a duel and get his ass soundly kicked.

Protectorate Salini approached, bowing deeply, "King Apricotto, Princess Toadstool, Sarasaland is delighted to have your company, though we wish it was for a more jubilant occasion."

Peach curtsied as Uncle Apricotto nodded, "Thanks. It's always good to be in Sarasaland. It's a little hot for my tastes though. It's good to see you!"

Uncle Apricotto fondly slapped Salini's shoulder with uncouth amicability. The High Protectorate blinked slowly, unsure how to even respond to such an abrupt gesture. He must have decided it was best to simply say nothing and go as he slowly turned, retaking his place at the head of the councilors.

The line of suitors approached, each bowing correspondingly to the presence of both Mushroom monarchs. I was surprised when Zero broke out from the ranks and stepped forward. He bowed to Uncle and faced Peach.

For a change his eyes were bright and very aware, "Princess Toadstool, you look as lovely as ever."

Peach curtsied, smiling coyly, "Thanks you, Sire."

My jaw nearly hit the floor when Zero, who never bothered with any type of courtly , chivalrous etiquette, took her hand and pressed a kiss against her delicate palm. Mario said nothing but arched a brow that vanished under the lid of his cap.

A couple of the suitors appeared bewildered; Wolfe arched a mischievous brow as Silver blinked rapidly. The gears and wheels in my head clicked and whirled as I realized with a sudden start that Zero liked her. And almost as if prove my conjecture, Zero's rare warmth cooled when he gave Mario a curt, disinterested nod.

He gave one last smileyes smileat Peach before stepping back into line with the other suitors. As the other suitors were busy chatting and welcoming Mario, I stared at Zero with incredulous wonder.

He smirked, "Is something the matter Princess Sarasaland?"

"You like Peach?" I spoke more so to myself than to him.

"If your brain worked every now and then," he snorted, "you would have realized this years ago."

I turned forward, a surprised grin dawning across my face. So the serious, sarcastic councilor liked my soft, pretty cousin? Realistically, he had to know that they would make an awful pair.

Peach had the biggest, purest heart, often giving obscene amounts of coins to orphanages and pet shelters, whereas Zero could be effortlessly callous and cold.

I was beginning to think that in life, we humans chased the things that seemed 'forbidden' the things and people that normally went against everything we stood for.

I half laughed and half scoffed, "You realize she's happily in a relationship, or whatever it is she has going on with Mario right? Mario. The legendary hero?"

Wolfe was excitedly shaking Mario's hand with far too much enthusiasmto the point that Mario's wrist was starting to discolor into an ugly bluish-purpleRyu and Silver eventually pried him off the mustached hero.

"Doo-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo~!" Wolfe sang, "It's-a Mario time!"

"...That's quite enough Wolfe," Ryu tried to speak to him quietly, "You're scaring him now."

Zero's muted smirk remained as he continued to carefully observe Peach, Mario and the suitors, "Of course I'm aware of it. Don't be ridiculous."

"So then you know that you've got, heh, zero chance with her, right?" I struggled to keep a straight face.

"You're right," Zero hummed, then his smile took on a slight sinister twist. He peered at me from the corner of his eyes, "Just like King Bowser has zero chance with you. At least in my situation we're the same race, species."

I froze, confused, "What? What does that have to do with anything?"

"Just an observation," he was still grinning.

I frowned, puckering my lips; what did Bowser have anything to do with his attraction to Peach? I certainly didn't need Zero to inform me that Bowser and I were a different race.

Species? Not too sure about that one. But even then, he and I were friends and had an established relationship, and as far as I know, I don't think Peach knows Zero exists.

Wolfe shot past the once ceremonious rank of foreign princes and towards Mario again, "Hey! It's Super Mario! I'm his biggest fan!"

Ryu and Silver peered at him with varying levels of amusement and confusion. The councilors arched brows.

"It takes some of us awhile to catch on I see," Zero muttered none too softly under his breath.

Silver smiled lightly, "W-Wolfe...we were just in the M-Mushroom kingdom just a few days ago..."

"Yeah but this is different! He's here!" Wolfe gushed happily, "I want to see the man jump!"

Ryu stepped forward to probably explain an obvious oversight Wolfe was neglecting, but Zero stopped him, "Don't. Don't do it. It'll just be a waste of breath."

Before Wolfe could bulrush Mario, and demand to see some heroic feats of strength, or, jumps in this case, I stepped towards the line of foreign princes.

"I think it might be time," I spoke softly.

Wolfe's excited aura darkened as smiles disappeared and brows furrowed. We knew this day was coming, though sooner than we all had expected. Already their rides homebound awaited them.

Guards had informed Father that moments ago an elegant Moonstonian Carriage arrived curbside, and Sage's unmistakable form stood outside of the palace walls. Father materialized before the suitors and spoke.

"Let it be known that Sarasaland has thoroughly enjoyed your company," Father's sonorous voice echoed throughout the throne room, "though we wish we could send you off on better terms, this departure is better thought of as a 'see you later' than a firm farewell. Let us not fear this departure but merely expect a happy reunion." Father finished with a formal bow, a gesture all the suitors returned.

Father cleared his throat pointedly and peered at me from over his shoulder, "Princess Sarasaland, if you will?"

"Of course Father." That was my cue to give a brief farewell to each of the suitors. I stepped before their half circle, smiling at each prince with true mirth.

"Well," I smiled sadly, "Looks like I have to let you guys go, huh?"

Silver, Ryu and Wolfe remained silent, varying degrees of reluctance on their faces. Wolfe, who had never been afraid to communicate what he felt, looked the most torn, "Yeah, still not too happy about this piranha shiuh crap. Yeah, I meant crap."

Father arched an eyebrow at the obvious self-editing as Uncle laughed. None of the three suitors made a move to say good bye first.

Amused, Zero raised an eyebrow, "My, has the Princess of Sarasaland bewitched you all so much so that you hesitate to leave her side?"

A soft rumble of laughter came from the nearby councilors. Wolfe smirked slyly and when he 'coughed' he nudged Silver forward with a wayward elbow.

Silver blinked, casting a suspicious glance back at Wolfe who was busy pretending to study his nails. Then the Moonstonian prince let out a defeated sigh, smiling sadly before approaching me, "I-I guess this is good b-bye for now Princess Daisy..."

And since my guards, his sentinels and an entire brigade of Sarasalandian councilors and court ladies were watching, I barely whispered loud enough for him to hear me, "Oh Silver...no need for sad goodbyes."

"Daisy," he breathed just as softly, "I'll r-really miss y-you..."

"You have my cell, right?"

Of course he did, since I gave it to him. I only asked just to see his reaction, and I wasn't disappointed. I grinned at the obvious rouge his face suddenly took on, "Uh y-y-y-yeah I d-d-do. I p-promise I'll keep in t-touch."

He quickly leaned in as I wrapped my arms around his torso. I clenched him tightly, feeling the beat of his heart seep through the material of his clothing as I breathed in the subtle spice of his cologne. After holding him for a few seconds, we pulled away, smiling.

The true, sweet warmth was effortlessly replaced with staid court formalities; we were in Sarasalandian court with a myriad of eyes closely watching our every move.

Not to mention my Father was standing a few steps behind me, keenly watching every single action with cool, discerning eyes.

Silver turned to Father and bowed respectfully, "T-Thank you for sharing y-your beautiful kingdom E-Emperor Sakuro."

Father returned the bow, "You are most welcome, Prince Moonstone. Sarasaland wishes to see you in the future."

Then Silver turned to me and bowed to the waist, "I p-promise to write you, Princess Sarasaland."

And since I was being carefully monitored by the severe stares of the councilors, I dropped into a feminine curtsy, speaking with my airiest, sweetest voice, "I'm charmed. And if you desire, I'll write you too Prince Moonstone, if that is what his majesty wishes."

Silver nodded, face perfectly neutral as was proper of a chivalrous prince; too much anticipation and eagerness pointed to immaturity and a covetousness prince, "I look forward to it."

For a glimmer of a second, a real smile flickered across Silver's features; his blue eyes warmed like a summer sky and within the next blink, I saw his cape fluttering around his ankles as he turned to leave.

Silver went over to the suitors, shaking hands and exchanging a few last words, though when it came time to bid Wolfe farewell, the Canine heir beamed widely before crushing Silver into a painful-looking hug.

Silver peered back one last time, smiling sadly before stepping out the door.

Bye Silver...

Moonstonian servants slipped in wordlessly, bowing before quickly, and silently hefting the prince's luggage out the doors. The next person I felt more than saw.

One moment he had been standing beside Wolfe and in a soundless blur of movement he was standing behind me. Only one person could move that quickly and silently.

And smell that gooood.

I smiled, turning to face Ryu, whose expression was perfectly straight. We both exchanged a stiff, formal bow, "It was great to have your company Lord Ryu. I hope I will see you soon."

"As do I Princess Sarasaland."

He took my hand and pressed a chaste kiss against my palm, an act that was fairly modest within the court's eyes. As he pulled away, I realized he had discreetly slipped a piece of paper into my hand.

I peered at the paper then back at him, stunned. For a split second we locked stares and Ryu pulled off such a subtle wink that I thought I had imagined things. Heat rose to my cheeks as I tried to discreetly hide the note that felt as if it were burning within my hands.

Peach cleared her throat audibly; everyone else may have missed that exchange but she had to let me know she hadn't. As Ryu walked towards the door, a servant was grunting with strain, trying to pick up the Shinobi leader's heavy bundle of knapsacks.

And with thoughtless ease, Ryu swooped in, picking up the heavy load with one arm before turning and walking out the door. A couple of brows were raised at Ryu's thoughtless show of strength and Wolfe openly laughed.

In the corner of my vision, Peach quirked an almost unnoticeable eyebrow and very slyly sent a hooded, suggestive look my way. I flushed three different shades of red before looking away.

A horse's shrill whinny rose in the air. I approached the door to see Ryu atop a muscular ebony stallion. He gave one last salute and a dazzling smile before beginning his trek home.

Bye Ryu...

Wolfe stepped beside me, nothing but smiles as he motioned me to follow him out the door. Peach smiled, nodding her head in approval. I stepped out to the court where Sage was waiting. The arid air was going to be sweltering hot in a matter of hours, I could feel it.

Sage's ears flickered in my direction before he peered at me. As I approached, his thick tail wagged. I smiled, "Sage! Hey there! How are you boy!? Huh? Are we doing well?"

I rubbed the large Chow behind his pointed, vulpine ears. Sage growled contently, affectionately nudging the side of my shoulder with his snout.

I continued to stroke his cobalt pelt as Wolfe approached, "So it looks like I've got to hit the road. I just wanted to be out of your castle so everyone wouldn't watch us. It's soooo creepy."

I laughed softly, "Sorry, that's how court life is, everything and everyone watching the emperor's daughter."

"Well now that I have you alone," Wolfe's voice dropped several octaves. When I peered up, his eyes seemed darker, a shade bordering honey, "You take care, alright Daisy?"

His hand went to my shoulder and squeezed affectionately. I clasped his large, warm hand within mine, "I will. You take care too, you and Puppo and Sage!"

Puppo yipped happily, leaning in and licking my cheek with a slobbery wet kiss. I laughed, wiping my damp cheek with the sleeve of my dress.

I froze as a pair of soft lips adeptly replaced Puppo's kiss. Wolfe pulled away, golden eyes bright and a brilliant smile crossed his visage, "See ya around D."

I was always puzzled by his kisses; how did someone with such a wild, rough demeanor have such soft lips? I knew my face was redder than my hair when I spoke, "I'll see you later Wolfe. You and that amazing smile."

He laughed, hopping onto Sage's back in one quick, practiced motion. One moment Wolfe peered down at me from atop his mount, smile warm and melting eyes bright and then the next he was ready to go.

Wolfe left out a sharp, piercing whistle and Sage was racing down the steps and tearing across the Desert sand, devouring the terrain in galloping strides. As the last of Wolfe's figure disappeared from sight, he let out a final howl that rang through the air.

Bye Wolfe...

A part of my being sank; I had really grown close to them over these past few days. I would miss Silver's quiet demeanor, the weight of Ryu's pretty blue eyes and nothing would replace the infectious buoyancy of Wolfe's laughter. I have high hopes that they will return and that this dilemma with the Aqualands wouldn't hinder any of our newly blooming friendships.

I felt a presence linger by my side. Father's white robes were unmistakable and bright as a warm wind toyed playfully with the material of his clothing, "Let's come inside Chisana. Your Uncle and cousin have both left to check on your grandmother."

"Okay," I replied softly.

I stared at the glowing horizon, ignoring the irritating burn of staring against a rising sun. Once I was sure the last traces of my suitors where gone, I followed Father inside the palace. It wasn't long before Protectorate Salini approached Father, whisking him away to talk of business.

The servants resumed their tasks, mopping floors, dusting furniture and polishing windows. Alabaster was scowling, viciously scrubbing the tiles of a hallway floor.

I approached him and made sure to speak in a soft voice, "Hey...Is everything okay? You seem a little upset."

"Upset!?" His voice broke, "Did you see that!? That...That mustached...jerk...face! He had his hands all over my princess!"

"Holding someone's hand counts as having their hands 'all over someone?'" I was smirking, trying to rile him up even further.

"I'm going to find him," Alabaster hissed, scrubbing the floor with too much attention; if I didn't know any better, I'd think he was imaging scrubbing the skin clear off of Mario's face, "and kick his butt!"

"That's going to be hard to do," I was still trying not to laugh, "considering Mario's punches can knock King Bowser out."

"Yeah well that's not too impress"

"Knock out Bowser." I reiterated my point, grinning, "The mean, nasty, gigantic Koopa King with bulky muscles and stunning red eyes."

Alabaster's head jumped up, as he stopped his chore, "Wait, what!? What did you say about King Bowser!?"

Stunning red eyes. I flushed, realizing my mistake; I just said he had stunning eyes. I said that aloud. Alabaster blinked up at me skeptically as I quickly tried to play it off, "Uh nothing. I s-said that his blows could knock out K-King Bowser."

"Peh. Mario must inject himself with 'shroom steroids or something. "'Roids' as they're called on the streets," Alabaster hissed under his breath, "I mean let's be real here. Why do you think he's so short!? You only get that way if you take"

"Alabaster," Now I was laughing, "You're a Toad. You're even shorter than he is."

I stopped on the dime when a shadow slipped over my shoulder. Zero appeared, suddenly standing over Alabaster with a dark look on his face. Alabaster gasped, quickly bowing in repentance, "M-My Lord Zero, I'm sorry if I've ups"

"One hundred coins are yours," Zero even brandished the bag to drive his point home, "if you set Mario's room up next to King Bowser. An extra one hundred if you're quick about it."

My jaw dropped; what in the world!? Bowser and Mario would kill each other! Why would Zero wantoh. Ohhhh. There's no way we're going to have two titans duking it out in my castle. I was going to stop this before things got

"Done!" Alabaster's features morphed into a wicked, hellacious grin. Then he bowed, still grinning brutally, "Milord."

Zero smirked, "Ah. I absolutely love how diligent the servants of this palace are."

"Alabaster don't you do it!" I growled, "Don't you—!"

But he shot out of there faster than a Bullet Bill on a starman drug trip. Alabaster quickly raced up the stairs cacklingprobably to find Mario and lead him to his demise. Zero tossed one last grin at me before whistling, calmly heading to his study, as if he hadn't just planned a heinous plot.

Oh Stars. What the hell was going on here? I just hope Mario and Bowser don't end up fighting again. They've supposedly 'patched things up.' I'm going to go and find Peach.

A servant stopped me, "Princess...Want in on the betting pool?"

"Sure, what is it involving this time?" Hell, I had coins to spare, why not?

The old maid grinned, "Two to one odds that Princess Peach talks Bowser out of a fight. Five to one odds Mario beats Bowser in a fight..."

"Huh, and what else?"

"Ten to one coin odds that Mario wins and punches Bowser through a wall. Twenty to one odds that however Bowser is defeated, it's hilarious and going on Koopatube."

I've seen the impressive Mario versus Bowser archive on Koopatube and I've yet to not laugh at each clip. From Bowser falling into lava and burning his ass, to him being blown sky high out of a cannon and cursing as he disappeared in the distance.

If you had a sucky day, watch Bowser on Koopatube. It'll have you laughing your ass off just like that. I tapped my chin in thought, "Hmm...Put five down on the ten to one odds."

"Got it Princess."

Sorry Bowwy. I don't think you'll lose...Well, okay I do, but as long as you don't know about the bet, no one gets their feelings hurt, right?


Alabaster bowed low enough to hide the obvious scorn on his face, "Sire, welcome to the Sarasaland palace, we hope that your stay is marvelous. This is your suite, Sire Mario. Please let me know if there is any way to assist you."

Mario peered at the large double doors with a touch of wonder. As he admired the well furnished decor, he missed the poisonous glare Alabaster aimed at him.

The moment Mario turned to look at the diminutive servant, Alabaster's expression was professionally blank yet again, "Thank you very much-a! Here."

Mario graciously shook the Toad's hand and as he did so, discreetly slipped a generous tip within Alabaster's tiny fingers. Alabaster bowed before turning to walk off, "Please let me know if I can further assist you, Sire."

As Mario slid the keycard into the door, Alabaster walked away merrily. Once he was sure Mario couldn't see him, he shot one last wicked grin at the red hero before leaving the hall.

"Hehehe...I hope you have a killer stay," Alabaster muttered under his breath, "Our suites are to die for."

The locks clicked and Mario opened his door to admire the beauteous furnishings, "Mama mia, these are some-a pricey digs. This is nicer-a than a hotel!"

He took a few seconds longer to admire the beautiful scenery before stepping in and pulling the door closed behind him. Just as his door shut, the neighboring door popped open as King Bowser stepped out, stretching his sore, healing frame, "Kooples is out like a lamp. Think I'll take a minute t?"

A new scent grabbed the king's attention the way the length of Flower's legs did. He sniffed loudly, peering around with an inquisitive, puzzled expression, "Ugh. Something smells like cheap-ass hair gel, five coin cologne and leather...If I didn't know any better, that smells just like..."

Bowser paused thoughtfully, before dismissing the all too familiar scent, "Nah. Can't be."

He stretched out one last time before lumbering down the hallway, thudding with each heavy step he took. A young servant bowed, "King Bowser. His majesty, Emperor Sakuro would like to cordially extend an invitation to dinner."

"Dinner? Where will it be held?"

The maid offered an invitation written in beautiful cursive, "In the dinning commons Sire, tonight at seven p.m. I shall attend the Koopaling in your quarters then."

"One last question, will Princess Sarasaland be there?"

"Of course Sire, her, the king of the Mushroom kingdom and Princess Peach shall all be present."

He didn't hear any words after the Princess of Sarasaland was mentioned. Bowser smirked, "Count me in. I'll be there. Before you go, could you spot me a favor."

The maid blinked, before fixing her face into a professional, serene visage, "Of course, Lord Bowser."

"Could you watch Kooples for me for a sec? I've got to make an important phone call."

"Of course, Sire."

The attentive servant quickly swept into his room not even moments later. Bowser stepped out and aimlessly wandered the length of the hall until he made it to an open balcony. The king reached into the front of his shell and pulled out a sleek, sexy, expensive cell. Only three of these had been ever manufactured and he had one.

He quickly dialed a number and by three rings, it was promptly answered, "H-Hello!? King Dad? King Dad! I-Is it you!?"

Bowser turned away, in case anyone walking by saw him smile, "Hey Brat. Yeah, it's your old Koopa."

"K-King Dad!" Junior sounded as if he were about to cry, "I-I thought you were sick! M-Miss Kammy said you were too sick to talk to us! M-Mama Daisy said she'd watch over you."

"Did she now?" Bowser smirked, "You know Scamp, I'd be totally okay with her giving me a physical..."

"A what? A Fizzy what?"

Bowser laughed, "Nevermind Scamp. Look, get your brothers and Sister...But it's important that you...guys listen to me, okay. No one, and I mean no one can know how I'm doing or they'll make me leave Mama Daisy."

"No! Stay with Mama! Stay with Mama Daisy and marry her!"

"That's the plan, Kiddo. Now go get your siblings. Daddy's got a lot of explaining to do."


"And from the top..."

With sunset's glimmer, bright sunbeams dappled the pagoda in sparkling tendrils at music practice. The sharp, sour, off key notes of harps, lyres, and other wind instruments twanged inharmoniously in the air.

Lady Angora twitched as another unflattering note was savagely botched by her many young students. One final, awful note tried the last thread of Angora's waning impatience. Enough was enough.

With an inaudible growl, Angora impatiently cut the baton across the air, almost like a physical jab, "That's quite enough. We've been practicing for an hour and a half yet no more progress has been made. Councilor Sandstone will be visiting in a week's time and I've promised him a breathtaking performance from several beautiful court ladies. And yet this is sounding nowhere even close to mediocre."

Emitting a sigh deep enough to drop her shoulders, Lady Angora harrumphed, "Fine. This will do for today but come tomorrow I expect to hear a significant improvement from each of you. This is enough."

And it was. Angora quietly shook her head, cerise lips tightly pressed together in silent disapproval as she pondered the astounding incompetence of the new generation.

As the young ladies of the court packed their instruments, laughing and giggling with bursting gaiety, they had already forgotten their responsibilities and were blathering about boys, parties, and the most fashion forward accessories.

By half of their collective age, Angora had been gifted enough to masterfully play three different string instruments and yet these girls struggled pitifully with one. This also didn't include her masteries of the piano, flute and though she would never speak of it. The harmonica.

Everyone had their own guilty pleasure, and playing the inelegant, crude, slapstick harmonica was hers. And she would rather be seen in last year's outdated fashion before she ever admitted that to anyone.

The young court ladies, daughter of Sarasalandian elites, nobles and counts were nothing but spoiled, pampered things that had no true interest in bettering themselves. They simply planned on living off of their parents' wealth and dreamed of marrying wealthy, handsome men.

Youth was a temporary stunning elixir, as was beauty. Beauty, though a powerful potion very few women could utilize, was a commodity that would fade faster than vapor.

Angora of all people was quite familiar with the stunning combination of youth and beauty; once prized as one of the most beautiful women in Sarasaland, wealthy men of all kingdoms and countries fought each other, begging her father for her hand in marriage.

She had had so much attention, so many rare, exquisite gifts brought on her behest and so many open stares of admiration from men and baleful glares of envy from women.

And now in the wink of an eye, two decades had flown by and her once heavily sought after hand was only a distant memory. This wasn't to say that Lady Angora couldn't have her pick of men, it just wasn't as ridiculous as it used to be in her youth.

She was still beautiful; hair more ebony than the darkest raven's wing, lips tempting and wickedly apple-red and skin pale like the moon but she no longer had the power of youth of her side. And yet here these girls were, squandering their youth, their beauty, their talents.

All hope is not lost. At least Princess Sarasaland will one day rule. A true beckon of strength and character, one who won't aimlessly flaunt her beauty to achieve what she wants...

Lady Angora was so preoccupied in the veil of her own thoughts that she didn't notice the approaching newcomer, though he was a behemoth in both statue and musculature, "Excuse me..."

The deep, masculine baritone had all the court ladies piquing up with interest as they spun around, bright-eyed and brows raised. Then in one similar motion they all froze; for standing in the arch of the doorway, and nearly engulfing the entire doorframe was King Bowser.

The Sarasalandian ladies gawped stupidly; Angora was the only one who had the presence of mind not to gape like a breathless cheep-cheep.

The young court ladies peered amongst each other with curious fervor. Was this really King Bowser? The awful demon king that nearly plundered the galaxy and stole the holy Star Rod from the Stars themselves!?

Maids and servants in the palace had passed on rumors that the awful king had been badly beaten, near death even and the Koopa staring back at them was tall, strong, and worse than anything they could imagine. Nothing about him seemed sickly or remotely weak.

Seeing King Bowser through the television and through the print of newspaper was far different than seeing him in person.

He was absolutely massive; his tall frame teemed with muscle, there were monstrously largeand sharpspikes on his shell and he was covered in icky, thick golden scales like a reptile. And his red eyes were demonic and wild and like nothing they'd ever seen before.

His presence stirred up a swirl of uneasy emotions amongst the court ladies; most of them nervous, others disgusted and a tiny sprinkle of them felt curious about the new creature.

"That thing spoke," One younger court lady replied in Sarasalandian.

"Stars, it's ugly," a second girl hissed, fuchsia lips pulled into a sneer.

Bowser flicked a quick look in their direction before he turned to Angora expectantly. He recognized her scent of lilacs and some kind of cosmetic cream, a scent that belonged to Flower's mentor.

In the back of his mind, he mentally added her amongst the hottie elite ranks of Kitsune and Rose and into the 'attractive older woman' or the MILF category.

"I'm supposed to meet with the Emperor for dinner. Where'scan you...tell me where to go?"

He was met with silence, even Angora, who was usually composed and assured stared at the Koopa King with unabashed wonder, but not for the same reasons as her younger counterparts. She realized King Bowser, who was fabled for his profane and blunt words was proactively trying to speak politely.

My, how very interesting. Is the sudden change of heart brought from his fondness of Princess Sarasaland? The edges of her cerise lips curled into a subtle smile. Before Angora could speak, the young court women began to blather loudly in Sarasalandian.

"Take a left at the corridor then take a right, can't miss it you big idiot."

A chorus of cruel, saccharine giggles rose amongst the girls. For a split second, Bowser's expression became blank and a second court lady must have been encouraged by the laughter and spoke up next, "What's wrong? Can't understand us, eh Brute?"

"What an ugly, big monster."

"He has scales! Ugh! My Stars how horrible! He's like a reptile!"

"What the hell is Princess Daisy thinking making him a suitor for marriage!?"

"Not even she deserves something ugly like that."

Bowser's expression quickly stonewalled. The court ladies kept chattering and laughing in Sarasalandian and it didn't take a genius to know they were insulting him.

The King shot them one burning, lingering glare that quieted their laughter and made the hair on the back of their necks raise before he turned and began to leave, stomping away loudly.

"Wait."

Bowser shot an impatient glare over his shoulder and caught the slim figure of Angora in his sight. Her expression lightened fractionally, "Travel the length of the corridor and take a left, followed by a right and you shall come to the dinning commons. Have safe travels, Milord."

Bowser peered at her and Angora thought it could have been a trick of the light, but his expression appeared less severe. Maybe he recognized the muted kindness in her words? The King nodded stiffly before turning and stomping down the hall.

"Lady Angora, you didn't have to help him," A young, blond court lady spat, "He's the reason Prince Taurus hates our kingdom and refuses to give us water."

"She's right. Aqualandians hate Koopas, and now because of him, Prince Taurus hates us. You should let him get lost. Hmph. Let him suffer."

Angora's expression darkened, and she purposefully turned to face them all with an ominous delay, "Witless child. You'd be wise to speak to him with respect. All of you. He is the king of the most powerful nation. And even though we're allies, we are teetering on a thin, thin line between friend and foe and yet here you are insulting him. Perhaps if you weren't busy filling your heads with empty ideas you'd have room to think for a change."

"Lady LeCatte, he's not even an ally!"

"He's a Koopa! The other kingdoms laugh at us because we align ourselves with those beasts."

"With those ugly lizards."

"Enough," though Angora barely whispered the command, her tone held enough gravity that the others immediately fell silent. The court ladies bowed submissively in one single movement, "Yes Lady Angora. Please forgive us."

"The apology would be best ushered to the king, but do not forget your manners," and with an impatient flick of her hand, Angora turned her head so she didn't have to look upon them, "See yourselves out. I want you all here before dawn tomorrow for practice."

"But practice doesn't begin until noon!" One court lady whined.

"Stars, I hate waking up early!"

Angora's eyes were thinner than a blade, "Then perhaps you ought to consider it your punishment for such reviling behavior. Now go. And may you pray to the Stars if any of you show up half a second late. Dismissed."

The court ladies bowed, scattering quietly as they collected their things and left the room. A couple of the braver girls peered back at Angora once or twice before leaving.

Angora shook her head; and to think, one day they're going to be involved with Sarasaland's diplomatic affairs. Such thoughts give me a headache. I'm going to drink. Drink booze and then play the harmonica like a commoner.

With that out of the way, Angora swiftly spun on her heel and marched to her quarters.


Bowser stepped into the furnished dinning commons where the two royal families had been waiting. The king glanced around, taking in the over-abused color palette of starburst golds, vibrant oranges and a calming, placating cream to wrangle the bright, overpowering colors together.

The orange and yellow color scheme was ridiculous, it was everywhere; in the carpets, drapery, wall paper and even the decorative blossoms, fragrant and sweetnauseating and sickly sweet if you asked the kingwere yellow and orange.

At his arrival, Peach and Flower, who had been having an animated conversation, halted, rose from their seats and curtsied. Bowser smirked coolly, allowing his eyes to rove over the Desert princess' put on delicate demeanor.

Apricotto beamed widely, his entire set of teeth revealed as Sakuro watched coolly. It wasn't very long when Apricotto rushed over, beaming widely, "Bowz my Koopa! Ya came just in time!"

"Erm...Father...?" Peach shook her head in a not-so-subtle warning, "Why don't we leave King Bowser to himself, yes?"

The Darklandian King cut a devious glare at the approaching, empty-headed man. As Apricotto tried to wrap an amicable arm around Bowser's back, he let out a tiny yelp as he pricked his arm on one of the king's large spines. Bowser couldn't hide his grin if he tried.

"AHHH! MY ARM!" The Mushroom King bellowed childishly, tears welling up in his enlarged eyes.

Peach sighed, rubbing her temples as Flower tried not to laugh, "Unc, you got to watch out, BouhKing Bowser has dangerous spines."

Dinner hadn't started yet and Peach's patience already looked as if it was running dangerously thin, "Father please be more cognizant of your actions."

"I am Peachie Pie! But Stars did that hurt," Apricotto whined, bottom lip puckered like a kicked Chow puppy. Daisy took her Uncle's arm and kindly led him to his seat beside her father, quietly making sure he wasn't too hurt.

For just a second, Bowser thought he caught Sakuro smirking deviously at his brother's whimpering, but it must have been a trick of the light because moments later the emperor's mien was perfectly composed.

Sakuro made a motion towards the seats, "Now that all guests are accounted and present. Let us all dine."

While everyone moved to their seats, Bowser honed in on the empty chair beside Princess Sarasaland. That empty, open spot beside the pretty princess beckoned to him and without a second thought, he bound for that spot. Bowser thoughtlessly rushed passed Peach and claimed the free seat.

Of course the king's overeager actions drew everyone's attention like bees to honeyand a particularly cutting, severe glance radiated from Sakuro.

Bowser realized his screw up a second too late as his cheeks glowed a mortifying red. Apricotto grinned knowingly, eyebrows raised as he was keen on studying his brother's expression and Peach appeared softly amused.

"Uh...? My bad," the king grumbled.

With all eyes on him, Bowser could feel his embarrassment skyrocketing, increasing with all the heat and discomfort of a fever. He purposefully cleared his throat and took a step to the left so Peach could take her rightful spot beside Daisy. Peach smiled before quickly schooling her features into her usual, serene visage.

Sakuro stared at Bowser scrupulously; eyes narrowed and critical before Apricotto nudged him, coaxing his older brother into a seat. Everyone took their seats in a single fluid motion and that was the signal for the servants to begin their service.

It wasn't too soon when the once empty, expensive porcelain was filled with Sarasaland's signature wild pheasant, baked geese, spiced wild rice, stewed onion, garlic steak, and roasted honey apples for a light, sweet dessert.

The tantalizing scents saturated the air like a fine perfume and the sight of fat dripping off the plump pheasant made an animalistic hunger twist violently in the King's stomach.

Bowser watched with mounting impatience as the servants made a frickin' ceremony of setting the damn plates, dishes and arranging their meals in a pretty, pleasing arrangement. Peach cooed happily as a servant created a heart with her sliced honey apples.

A chef was diligently making a fireflower design on each of their plates with a sauce they were supposed to eat. What the hell was this!? What kind of etiquette was this!? You put food down in front of someone and then bounced. What was this other piranha shit about!?

As plates were filled, and dishes were passed around, Bowser had had just about enough of waiting. In his kingdom he was served first and ate first. Slow servants could rightfully have their asses torched for delivering his meal too slow. Slowing down a Koopa from eating was as evil as slapping a newborn blitty.

Bowser elbowed a servant out of the way and began to inhale his food with bloodthirsty Koopa zeal, managing to impressively shovel two apples, and three fat pheasant drumsticks into his mouth in a single gluttonous motion.

"GWHAHAHA!" Bowser ripped into more tender pheasant meat, his eyes rolled into the back of his head from gluttonous pleasure, "Ohhhh Stars, it's like having sex in your mouth!"

Bowser laughed happily as the taste, scent and spice of food, real food filled his mouth and gave his taste buds a crazy, rockin' mouthgasm. The table fell silent as Bowser realized he was suddenly the center of attention.

Again.

Peach and Apricotto were gapingthough Apricotto looked more amused than anythingas Sakuro stared intensely, eyes narrowed and critical of his terrible manners.

Only Flower remained unperturbed, happily chewing some of the stewed onion. Bowser swallowed everything in one loud, disgusting gulp and just when he didn't think things could get worse, he fought back against the evil, massive-ass belch that was trying to violently make itself present.

Bowser cursed none too quietlywarranting another dirty look from Sakuroas he wrapped a fist against his chest, trying anything to keep from ripping a wet and nasty at the table. Flower peered up across the table, locking eyes. She looked as if she wanted to die laughing.

Screw her. Screw her and her cute face and those big pretty eyes and that cute mouth. Screw her. Especially those long legs. I'd take alllll night looooong to screw...

The weight of Flower's stare only abolished whatever remaining threads of composure Bowser had as he flushed dark red. Daisy smirked at him mischievously and that only served to fluster the king that much more.

I'd kiss that cute smirk off her face...

Sakuro caught their friendly eye-tag and narrowed his eyes, mouth clenching into a firmer unpleasant line; that stare alone could drop the temperature several degrees.

Oh friggin' Stars, don't burp, don't burp, pleeease don't let this damn burp come up. I'm crushing my lungs trying to keep this thing down.

"King Bowser...is anything okay?" Peach asked, truly concerned with his oddweirdbehavior.

"Uh yeah, just fine," he murmured, then threw in an extra, delayed, "thanks."

Peach smiled warmly before returning to her meal. Once Bowser was sure he beat the gas monster down, he bashfully picked up a Star damn too small fork and began to jab at his food, hoping he wouldn't starve because teeny, sissy-wissy human utensils did not work for masculine, strong Koopa hands.

Someone coughed and Bowser peered up, realizing it was Daisy who was still smiling and holding in her laughter. Everything must have been okay again because the others picked up their utensils and began to eat quietly.

Apricotto happily complimented the food, staff and tried to squeeze embarrassing tales out of the staff about his older brother. The servants either didn't know anything or were too smart to say anything unflattering of their emperor.

Bowser didn't contribute much to the conversation, simply content to stuff his face and avoid saying anything that Sakuro could use against him. He was content to watch Flower as she laughed and smiled truly. Her smile and true mirth softened his hard stare as he watched her.

The Darklandian King was so caught up observing Daisy that he didn't realize that both Peach and the Emperor were all too aware of his eyes being glued to their Dessert Princess.

Sakuro's lip twitched as he quickly peered at his plate and began to cut his steak with a little more zeal than necessary. He cleared his throat loudly, "King Bowser, is everything to your liking?"

Bowser nearly jumped before looking at the Emperor, "Huh? Oh yeah...yeah...everything's fine. The pheasant is good, real good."

"It must have been," Sakuro peered up at him and smirked with no small raze of mischief, "With the way you were shoveling it down I thought there was a time limit on your meal."

Bowser squinted, "...Whuh?"

Apricotto and Daisy laughed as Bowser realized quickly that he had just been publically burned by the staid Emperor Sakuro. As the table laughed, Sakuro contently took a long draw from his wine glass.

Why, that crotchety-ass Emperor. This he would not let go, or his name wasn't King 'lady-slaying' Bowser. Bowser curled his fist, and hid it under the table so it wouldn't accidentally fly across the room and knock the emperor out.

It's okay Bowser...just calm down...don't go across the room and punch him through any walls...Just think nice, nasty thoughts. Flower in a bikini. Boom. Feeling better already...

Bowser chuckled with unusual urbane refinement, eyes narrowed, "Oh ho ho! That was quite funny, Emperor. But you know, if I had hair as long as yours, I'd eat slowly too. It must take forever to condition, lather and blow dry your manly hair into straight, silky smooth perfection."

And then there was silence. All heads shot up at the table, eating utensils halted in midair as the Emperor stopped drinking from his wine goblet. Then Apricotto burst out into laughter as Daisy snorted, covering her mouth to hold back her laughter.

Sakuro frowned so deeply that Bowser thought he'd permanently etch lines into his face. Apricotto continued to wail happily, tears dotting the corner of his eyes as Peach tried to hide her laughter behind dainty palms.

"Don't dish it if ya can't take it bro!" Apricotto added before dissolving into another heap of foolish laughter.

As Flower giggled, Bowser took the opportunity to grin, rewarded yet again with her dazzling smile and the sound of her laughter. Sakuro cleared his throat, eyes cut extraordinarily thin.

"It seems you have something on your mind?" Sakuro turned, peering at the King with a scrutiny that could frost grass, "Princess Sarasaland is indeed beautiful but you stare as if you've never seen her before in your life."

Peach's mirthful giggles were airy and sweet and it was more than enough to bring another light flush of color to the king's cheeks, "Oh, uh...w-well..."

Flower blinked, peering up at him, mouth popped open in surprise as Bowser continued to stammer ungainly, "I-It's just been awhile since I've last seen her..."

And yeah she is effing gorgeous. I couldn't stop looking at her if I tried.

Bowser peered around the table and when he met the bright, big blue eyes of Princess Sarasaland, she smiled, an attractive flush of ruby glowing on her cheeks. The King smirked, forgetting yet again that her father was at the head of the table, watching him closely.

"Heh, Sakuro," The Crazy Shroom King spoke lightly, "Remember when our girls were little and I wanted to lock Peachie Pie away so she wouldn't have to date any boys?"

Bowser was highly amused when the prim and proper Princess Peach rolled her eyes with no small amount of disdain, "Dad, don't you think that's over the top? Just a little?"

The Crazy Shroom king smirked, "Not at all dear! You just don't know how boys act! Someday weyour stuffy old Uncle and Iwill find you a nice Prince to marry."

At this, the Darklandian king didn't miss the subtle glance both Flower and Peach shared. Flower raised her brows with a sly grin as Peach blushed; Bowser would bet coins it had something to do with that tacky red plumber.

"But until then," Apricotto continued on cluelessly, "no dating until you're thirty."

Sakuro chuckled softly, "For a time, I was thinking of sending Chisana to live in the monastery and become a nun."

Peach grinned as Flower shot a funny, exasperated look at her father.

"Thank the Stars you didn't," Bowser laughed, "Thank the Stars that you..."

Bowser slowly let the sentence die away awkwardly as all eyes were suddenly upon him. Jaws were dropped, eyebrows raised and some peoplelike Apricottolooked as if they wanted to laugh their asses off.

Heck, The Mushroom King was peering between Bowser and his brother, his head on a wild swivel just so he wouldn't miss either of their reactions. Bowser's face grew pale, "Uh...Crap... I-I meant...uh..."

The table fell silent as Sakuro, eyes narrowing, growled fiercely through his teeth, "...Excuse me?"

Bowser, whose jaw hung inelegantly, grew ashen before flushing all too obliviously with a luminous ruby blush. Apricotto bust up laughing raucously, nearly turning the soup in his mouth into an unwanted projectile, "Haha! Just want a chance at my pretty niece eh!? The Koopa's right! What a shame it would have been! She's just as lovely as her mother!"

Daisy gaped wordlessly, cheeks blazing carnation pink as Peach's visage was stuck between surprise and lucid amusement. With twinkling eyes, Peach shot a rather quickslyglance in Bowser's direction before sipping her soup with a soundless decor.

Sakuro peered up with a frosty glare that had Bowser realizing exactly what his statement implied. He was glad Flower wasn't a nun because that meant she could have sex. And obviously he wanted to have sex with her.

SHIT.

Oh shitty shitty bang bang.

As Apricotto and Peach laughed in loud spurts of riotous peals, Sakuro was still glaring daggers from the head of the table. The Emperor's jaw was tightly clenched as his fingers were impatiently crushing, cracking hair-thin fissures into his glass goblet.

The Emperor was always a man that effortlessly held a blank face, and for one of the few times, Bowser had really managed to piss him off. For a split second, Bowser wondered if he'd be thrown out of Sarasaland.

The others weren't unaware of the sweltering death aura Sakuro was exuding in suffocating black waves as Apricotto, while laughing jubilantly, slipped an easy arm around his older brother's shoulder, "Aw Lighten up Sakky! He was joking. It was a joke."

"It's not one that I find much humor in at all."

Peach cleared her throat, "King Bowser if you don't mind, why don't you tell us about your children?"

Bowser realized with a start that Peach had not only set the conversation back into non-inflammatory territory but she also started a topic that couldn't go wrong. All parties at the table loved children. Even Sakuro's conceited ass.

His children were a topic that he never struggled to speak about, "As you all know, I've got eight Koopalings. Ludwig, where do I even start with that kid? He's absolutely brilliant. He could play the piano before he could walk. Even as a baby he hummed songs and learned how to write lullabies for his little siblings."

Sakuro nodded, "Ludwig's music is some of the most beautiful, complicated symphonies I've had the pleasure of hearing. It's absolutely breathtaking and he's so young and talented."

Peach smiled, "His performance at the Summani was stunning!"

"Then there's Roy. He's tough and abrasive and he can come off as selfish," Bowser frowned, peering into the reflection of his glass chalice, "He reminds me of myself...of how I..."

All heads popped up, peering at the Darklandian king with far more interest. Bowser's eyes thinned to red slits, "...used to be."

Sakuro arched a brow and peered at him keenly from the other side of the table, "Hmm. Aren't you the same now? Kidnapping, fighting, stealing, the list of your misdeeds are quite lengthy."

Flower's brows furrowed, lips twisting at their edges as both she and Princess Peachsurprisinglydisagreed. Flower even appeared slightly upset at her father's characterization, "Father, King Bowser is...he's a really good Koopa now. He doesn't do any of the bad things he used to. I wouldn't be friends with someone who was."

"I agree," Peach's soft, sweet voice was melodic.

Bowser chuckled with no true humor, "No Emp. I'm not nearly like I used to be. When..." he halted, mentally deciding if he even wanted to share such vulnerable material with the monarchs of Sarasaland and the Mushroom kingdom.

He peered up and saw Flower's consenting smile. That seemed to give him the final nudge he needed, "As a Koopaling I used to be...angry and..." he halted, taking an inaudible breath in through his nostrils, making sure to focus his stare everywhere but at the watchful eyes in the room, "I...ever since my grandfather passed, I had been angry and bitter. Violence seemed like the only outlet I had. In fact fighting and blood, it was all encouraged."

Bowser closed his eyes as swirls of his chaotic Koopalinghood flashed across his memory. All the blood he had shed as he trained under a grueling tyrant.

Friends he had lost and a mother he barely knew because Morton thought companionship would make him 'soft.' The pain of having to endure torture under a father who saw mercy, kindness as weakness. Morton had valued cruelty, ruthlessness in his heir and did his best to sire it.

There were many nights still painfully fresh and raw in his memory, nights he had cried himself to sleep as a Koopaling. He had been curled up on his side pathetically with snot running down his face, wounds throbbing from his father's 'training'. During the day, under his father's cold, unforgiving eyes, there was no room for the crown prince to cry.

There was very thin leeway for sentiment and if those emotions didn't involve fury, contempt and/or arrogance, it was not tolerated. Shedding tears was held to the highest degree of contempt and was absolutely disgusting in King Morton's book. Tears always led to more brutal beatings.

"Grandmother was friends with King Bowser's grandfather," Flower's voice dragged Bowser from his abyss. It struck him how dark and somber her usually bright eyes were, "Grammy told us how King Morton actually banished her from the Darklands because he hated humans. He burned houses and schools...I can't even imagine being his child..."

"Wow..." Peach's voice sounded truly sympathetic.

When Bowser peered up, with vestiges of his blossoming anger crinkling his brow, he was surprised at all the empathy received. The Mushroom monarchs looked cheerless, blue eyes dim and dark with concern. Even Sakuro's stern, severe visage had softened several steps.

"King Morton's cruelty was legendary," surprisingly it was King Apricotto who had been so insightful. His voice was barely loud enough to float across the table, "I read about the horrors he put his own troops through to make them tough. A good number of them died from his insane training methods. I can't even imagine what life with him was like."

Bowser unconsciously scratched at an old, puckered scar on his elbow. A gift given from his father when he had thought his young son to have been becoming, 'too soft'.

"I..." The unusual rattle in Sakuro's deep voice made Bowser peer at him, "never had the chance to ever interact with King Morton. He never had any interest with Sarasaland and tended to ignore smaller kingdoms. Or those ran by Humans. I knew he was ruthless when it came to politics but I never expected him to carry out such ruthlessness upon his own child."

Was Sakuro, stick-up-his-ass Sakuro showing his own brand of empathy? This was too much. Bowser shifted uncomfortably, clearing his throat with purpose, "Yeah well...As much as I enjoy talking about this..."

Flower smiled at him, blue eyes shimmering and sparkling like sapphire, "What about your other Koopalings?"

Bowser certainly didn't look a gift horse in the mouth. "Morton. Named after his grandfather ironically is nothing like him," Bowser chuckled, smirking at the thought of his son, "He's so mellow, and gentle. But Stars is that Koopaling strong. And big. He's a teen and he's nearly as big and as strong as I am. He'll be stronger than his old man in no time flat."

Flower laughed, "Morton's so cute! He really is a 'gentle giant.' He speaks so properly and he loves playing with children, and he absolutely hates violence."

"How intriguing..." Peach hummed.

"The twins, Stars they drive me up the wall. Lemmy and Larry are each other's shadows. One follows or the other leads. And they switch."

"You know," Peach spoke, tapping a gloved finger against her cheek in thought, "How can you tell the twins apart? They look so alike!"

"Lemmy has greenish eyes and Larry's eyes seem bluish," Flower piped up.

"FlPrincess Daisy is right," Bowser shot a smirk at Flower, "Also each Koopaling has small differences. Lemmy's left cheek has a permanent dimple and Larry still has a scar on the side of his neck where he frickin' shot a bullet bill in his own face."

"You'd never know it but Lemmy, the twin with the green eyes, is actually is brilliant. He has a stellar IQ and is nearly as smart as Ludwig."

"Lemmy?" Flower asked skeptically, laughing as she did so, "Lemmy Koopa!?"

"Yes actually," Bowser smirked, "In fact, most of their pranks have some kind of scientific method behind it. They once made stink bombs to flush out a meeting and Lemmy understood that sulfur bonds release a noxious, gassy smell or something. Lemmy actually knows he's light years smarter than his twin, but pretends to be stupid so Larry won't feel bad. Larry on the other hand is far more charismatic and good with people. Larry is good with words and usually does the explaining as Lemmy is usually the brain behind their pranks. Stars help us all."

"Wendy, she's my little Koopette. Stars she's going to be absolutely gorgeous when she's grown," Bowser sighed wistfully, "She's going to be a heartbreaker just like her mom. I'm overprotective but it's because she's my little sweetshell."

"'Sweetshell'?" Peach asked, arching an interested eyebrow.

"Darklandian term of endearment," Flower piped in, smiling brightly, "It's like our 'sweetheart.'"

"Oooh," Peach cooed, bobbing her head, "I see! 'Sweetshell' huh? I like it! It's so cute!"

Bowser continued, "She loves fashion, glitter, gems, sparkles, and beautiful things, and the second some stupid punk kid breaks her heart, I'll break his neck."

Sakuro actually smirked, "It seems we are both very protective of our little jewels."

With that, Sakuro smirked, arching a rakish brow as he looked in his daughter's direction. Bowser was gifted with yet another opportunity to see Flower blush.

The king smirked, "Can't blame you really, your little jewel dazzles and stuns. But then again Emperor, you can't really blame all the..."He grinned deviously, "interested buyers out there who want your gem. Who wouldn't want something that special?"

Peach's eyes glittered with mirth, Apricotto beamed widely, peering at his brother as Sakuro's eyes narrowed a touch, "Huh."

Bowser stared at Flower just long enough for her face to flume a remarkable shade of ruby, "So anyways, there's Iggy who's quiet, shy and he's a really good cook. He watches all these cooking shows and learns how to cook, just like that. He's not much of a fighter but I'll make a little beast out of him yet."

"Then there's Junior," the King didn't realize he was smiling, "He's my little clone; he's got the world's largest personality and a smile brighter than twelve suns combined. He loves painting and art and thinks he some kind assassin."

The emperor chuckled, "I must second you on Bowser Junior's wondrous artistic abilities. When he was here in Sarasaland, he drew a picture for me. Do you know what he drew?"

Bowser groaned with fake disdain, "Hopefully something appropriate."

"I think so," the Emperor hummed quietly, "It was of his 'family.' He drew his brothers, sister, Father, Mother...Grandparents..."

Bowser grunted, "Mother? He doesn't even know Clawdia."

Sakuro cleared his throat, "Not to be facetious King Bowser, but his mother isn't the woman you're imagining. Anyway, I'm quite fond of Bowser Junior. His personality can light a cave."

"Yeah," Bowser smirked, "Everything I do, he wants to do."

"It's so cute," Flower laughed, "Junior really idolizes King Bowser. Sometimes he even dresses like him."

Sakuro arched a brow at his daughter, "My, Chisana. You certainly hold a great deal of knowledge about Darklandian culture and of King Bowser's children."

Flower flushed all the way to the roots of her hair, "W-Well...I-I'm just really close to them Father."

"You have to be," Sakuro smoothly drank from his chalice, eyes locked on his daughter, "if they refer to you as 'Mama'."

Two-hit combo! Daisy's complexion only seemed to flush redder and redder each passing second, "Y-Yeah, well...uh..."

"Daisy is a delegate that visits the Darklands, of course she would be knowledgeable of Darklandian culture. She works closely with their father so it's not surprising that she's close to them." Peach winked at her Uncle before turning to Bowser, "And Since Bowser Junior emulates you it's all the more imperative that you be a good role model, don't you think?" Peach asked, smiling sweetly.

"Yeah sure," Bowser grunted with no true conviction.

"It's obvious that your children are your passion," Sakuro spoke. When he peered at the king, he no longer held a hostile expression, "Perhaps a manor in your casea Koopa has many facets to his personality. I respect a Koopa who cares deeply for his children."

Bowser smirked, nodding, "Same goes for you, Emperor."

Emperor Sakuro nodded kindly as Flower smiled; it was obvious she was happy to see the two of them finally starting to get along. They may not have been holding hands singing Koopa kumbaya yet, but this was definite progress.

Almost as if he were thinking along the same line of thought, the emperor gestured, "I've had a delicacy prepared for you King Bowser, and we of Sarasaland hope you shall enjoy it."

Realizing that this was some sort of lowkey peace offering, he accepted quickly, "Sure, what are we having now?"

With a motion from the Emperor, the servants reentered the dinning commons, carrying several silver trays to the table. A small, fist-sized ball of something sat on a decorative porcelain plate.

Bowser quickly picked up the cutesy roll, studied it with a subtle sniff before biting into it gingerly. It was some kind of roll crafted to look like a red and white spotted mushroom of all things.

It was wrapped in fresh, cooked briny seaweed and a vivid combination of salty and savory flavor danced on his tonsils delightfully.

The cold protein wrapped within the seaweed was one he couldn't place, but it was well-seasoned and delicious, "Hmm. This isn't that bad, what is this?"

"I'm glad you're enjoying our treat," Sakuro answered crisply, helping himself to a second roll, "We've had the sushi exported, fresh from Seaside town. It lies directly next to Sea, renowned for its fresh, flavorful squid and seafood. It was quite costly as shipping fresh fish seems pricey, though it was worth the hassle."

Bowser's face grew pale as his brows shot to his hairline. His jaw dropped as he quickly dropped half of the eaten sushi roll from his claws, left eye twitching erratically, "Sushi? Did you just say sushi? Sushi as in fish? As in uncooked dead fish?"

Apricotto blinked, "Yeah, that's what it is. Why, is something wrong?"

"Uh no," Bowser laughed nervously as perspiration began to pour down his face, "There's nothing wrong at all."

"Are you sure?" Flower asked skeptically, brows furrowed with worry, "You're sweating. Like buckets of sweat."

"What? D-Don't worry about me," Bowser continued to laugh edgily, as his left eye began to develop a noticeable tick, "It's not like Sushi makes me violently ill or anything. Or that the thought of eating nasty, gooey, disgusting, dead, smelly fish makes me want to hurl. It's nothing like that at all."

"Oh dear..." Peach whispered, pressing her hand against her mouth, concern dawning on her features.

Sakuro arched a brow as Daisy appeared really worried, "King Bowser? Is everything...?"

Bowser suddenly shot up, making all the glassware on the table jump and even the seats at the table hopped, "You know what? Hold that thought. I uh, gotta...Go. Now."

And with that he charged out of the dinning commons, knocking aside servants, bowling over maids to make a mad charge out of the dining room. The monarchs stared after him in wordless awe.

"I hope he's not too ill..." Peach whispered.

Apricotto spun around to face them all with a large grin, "Is anyone thinking what I'm thinking!?"

"I certainly hope not," Sakuro intoned blankly, "cause then there'd be another insane person."

Daisy was concerned, halfway out of her seat, "That King Bowser is"

"We've got to invite that Koopa to more dinners!" Apricotto boomed happily, "He makes everything so much fun!"


It had been hours since the servants cleaned the last traces of tonight's dinner. I honestly can't say if tonight's supper had been a success or a failure. Father had been viciously keen on 'roasting' Bowser, Unclewell, was himselfand Peach once again fell into her usual, effortless role of playing peacemaker and making sure no one was strangled at the dinner table.

Just to make sure we didn't have any bitter feelings between us, I decided to bring Bowser a late evening snack. I made my way to his guest suite, careful to balance the tea pot and saucers. I wrapped on his door, "Bowser, it's me, can I come in?"

A low rumbling chuckle replied, "Do you even have to ask? It's unlocked Purga."

I pulled the handles open and walked in. Bowser was relaxed on his bed, grinning at me. He smirked, motioning my approach. I gently placed the tray on the bed, pouring him a cup of piping hot tea before gently sitting down, "It's honey meringue tea. The kind"

"—served at our tea party," Bowser grinned, "I remember it."

"How is your stomach feeling?"

"Fine." Bowser glared at the tea cup. Though he looked pissed, I noticed the underlying blush in his face.

"Where's Kooples?" I peered around the room, "I wanted to read him a bedtime story."

"Lil' guy's being watched by the nannies, but I'm pretty sure he's asleep anyways. Apparently your staff has a hard time letting him go. That Koopa charm slays the ladies."

"Oh alright. So uh, I'm not sure what to say, but uh, sorry for Dad...I don't know why he gets so...defensive around you?"

"When one alpha male scents another alpha encroaching on his territory," Bowser spoke with a straight face, "shit's gonna go down."

I half laughed, "Are you serious? Is that what you think!?"

Bowser smirked, "You wouldn't understand the delicacies of masculine etiquette. One guy is always going to try and establish himself as the alpha."

...Excuse me, but did he just say 'masculine etiquette'?

Isn't that an oxymoron!?

Well that's not weird at all. Apparently tonight there was tension from two, overly beefed up egos and yet I thought maybe they just didn't get along because they were direct opposites of each other. I definitely didn't think it was because of masculine etiquette.

Bowser picked up the tea kettle and peered at me, "Want some tea? Make a plight now before I kill it..."

I raised a placating hand, "Nah, I'm good. Kill it."

With a shrug he opened his mouth and poured the tea down his throat, swallowing it all in three massiveand disgustinggulps. I laughed, shaking my head, "What an idiot..."

I released a sigh, peering around the guest room suite which was lavished with golden-gilded mirrors, luxurious, plush furniture and modern decor.

With a second deep sigh, I peered at the ceiling, studying the intricate patterns above; the suitors had left and it feels as if everything had slowed down. Yet the only ones here with me, with Sarasalandian in her greatest hour of need are my closest friends.

Peach...Mario...Luigi...

And Bowser?

He was injured and I'm sure if he was recovered then he would have left with the other suitors. Bowser may have been my friend, but the constrictions of kingship would have forced him into choosing what was best for his kingdom, even if that meant leaving me. No hard feelings, kingdoms and citizens come first.

And yet...

Even now he had promised to aid Sarasaland in a great time of need. Offering to provide water for a Desert kingdom was no small token.

I smiled at the thought of my friend's overt generosity; Bowser did have obligations to his kingdom, but time and time again he always managed to demonstrate how vital our friendship was.

Speaking of the devil...

I surreptitiously snuck a glance down at Bowser; what did he think of all this? He clearly wouldn't be happy with the Aqualands. Taurus had shown himself as volatile and hostile, irresponsibly injuring several royals who had nothing to do with the strife involving Sarasaland.

You know, I've been so busy that as of late we really haven't had much time to talk like we used to. We would talk about subjects both significant and immaterial.

Like what did he think of the other suitors? What would the Darklands' role in all of this be? And did he miss the Koopalings? But...What did he think of...me?

Bowser may have been a king, but he was an unmarried king and most monarchies were quite traditionalistic when it came to marriage; things just seemed to look better when a king was married, had a queen and children.

It was an unwritten rule how kingdoms held married rulers in higher esteem than those who were single and unattached. So surely the Darklands will want their king to remarry and find a bride...

My cheeks flushed hotly as I quickly glanced away; is there anyone Bowser wants to marry? He swears up and down he doesn't have a thing for Peachy anymore, but Lazinne's fortune telling is proof that there is someone he's had his eye on.

Was she a Koopette? Everytime we've gone through his kingdom, hundreds of beautiful, young Koopettes have openly stated their admiration and interest in him.

Bowser finding a queen would not be difficult. In fact I'm positive that for Bowser finding a young, beautiful queen would be as easy as clicking his heels.

I peered down at him from the corner of my vision; surely he's thought of his Koopalings needing a mother...And with howwellamorous he was, I'd be surprised that he hasn't considered marriage as well.

As I continued to peer at the relaxed king, the right side of his mouth curled into a lopsided smirk, "And now, you're going to tell me what you are thinking. Been starin' for some time now."

My jaw dropped; what the hell!? How did he KNOW I was staring at him!? I was so stunned, I couldn't form a coherent reply. While grinning, Bowser cut his eyes in direction, smug as sin. Damn it why do I do this to myself!? SHEYT.

"Uh...erm..." I could feel my body betraying me as I flushed several different shades of red. It must have been too obvious as Bowser' sly grin grew larger.

"I'm waaaaiting..." he growled with a grin.

"D-Do you really want to know...?" I coughed, I fake coughed again to stall for time, "To...?"

"Quit stalling Flower and tell me."

Damn!

"Are..." I swallowed thickly, purposefully looking away from him, "Uh...I was just thinking that all my suitors a-are human and y-you're a K-Koopa...and..."

"Uh huh..." He actually sat up, eyes bright and grin large enough to stretch across his face, "Continue..."

"So I guess I w-w-was wondering i-if..." I swallowed thickly, purposefully looking away from him, "d-do you find...you know, Human girls a-attractive...? Cause clearly y-you openly state how much you love 'curvy Koopettes' and I w-was wondering...If you find...humans attractive..."

My voice died away in a hushed whisper as the increasing stretch of silence only spread my anxieties to higher peaks. Though I wasn't looking at him directly, I noticed the moment Bowser's easy, relaxed posture tensed.

He turned to peer at me and I could feel the intensity of his stare; though curious, I wasn't brave enough to meet his gaze. And though I didn't look at him, my words suddenly inspired something different about him. It was something in the air, a shift of energy.

"And what..." Bowser's voice dropped several octaves until he was purring, voice smooth and silky and dripping with something utterly masculine, "would make you think I wouldn't appreciate the smooth legs, shinning hair and the soft skin of the female human species?"

There was a satiny, smoldering ambiance behind his statement that made me flush red. I hurriedly thrust my hands through my hair, hoping to shield my face from his intense, rich red stare, which was now all but honed in on me, "I...I was just curious is all. I know, totally weird question, I know."

Again I could feel him proactively studying my expression, trying to discern my body language and understand the unspoken question in my statement.

I swallowed thickly, feeling stupid for even asking such an inquiry. My query had just opened hundreds of different floodgates and most, if not all of them implied I was trying to see if he would be interested in my species. Or a particular person within my species.

"Why do you ask?" his voice was surprisingly soft, and fell into a deeper timber than before. He rose from the bed and moved closer. Closer until he was standing directly in front of me.

I wasn't bold enough to look him in the eye but I did see his plastron's yellow and the coiled muscles in his upper arm, "You think I don't...I wouldn't like human girls?"

"I was just curious okay?" I spat, blushing furiously, and wringing my hands together, "Y-You know, I just thought that...y-you're single and a king and y-you have Koopalings..."

I finally peered up and his expression was incomprehensible. I halted, only realizing that I was digging myself into an even bigger hole, and that the longer I rambled on, the more intense Bowser's expression became. This would be easier if I simply shut the hell up.

And that's what I planned to do. Face blistering red, I continued to garble and stumble over my words stupidly, "Y-You know what? L-Let's just forget that I even ask"

My breath hitched unsteadily when a smooth, cool claw gently swept under my chin. My head was titled upward until I was peering eye to eye with the king. I stared into his irises, faintly admiring the vivid rubicund clash of liquid rubies and garnets. My mouth had gone dry as his expression grew softer, melting, "In case you're too frickin' dense. I'm very attracted."

I froze, mouth dropping as the wheels turned in my head; to Human girls? Or to...? Bowser pulled back to gauge my mien, his expression brimming with amusement. Then he released a sigh, rolling his eyes with great disdain and shaking his head. He smirked, "Flower?"

"Y-Yeah?" I uttered, peering at him deeply.

"This is what you get for being so damn dense."

His eyes narrowed as a slow, predatory smile spread across his snout. He stuck his smallest claw into his mouth and...

...Gave me a gnarly wet willy. I felt the nasty, wet squelch of saliva press against my inner ear as I screamed bloody murder. Bowser roared with laughter and immediately I pounced on him, red-faced, fuming and spitting sordid Sarasalandian curses that had him rolling.

"I'll teach you to stick your nasty, spit in my ear!" I growled, pounding my fists against his hard plastron.

"Okay, okay!" he bellowed with laughter. I frowned at the effortless ease he displayed, lifting me from his person and onto a spot beside him.

I sighed, rubbing my thumb against the thin bridge of my nose, "These past few days have been one hell of a ride. Apparently, you find Human girls a-attractive."

He grinned wickedly, "I do."

"And...Well...It kind of sucks that the guy who wrote me all those...nice love notes turned out just to be some fraud..."

I released another soft, quiet sigh when Bowser snapped around urgently. His entire form grew tense and his eyes sharpened with hot anger, "What did you just say?"

I peered at him with a lopsided smile, "Yeah...during my courtship, believe it or not, Taurus wrote love notes and...spoke about how my hair glowed like fire and how my eyes sparkled like diamonds..." I shook my head to forcibly clear the thoughts away, "Oh nevermind...it's silly..."

A stretch of silence passed where Bowser stared at me, mouth agape, eyes hot like fire. I stopped smiling, "...What?"

"Flower," Bowser growled so gutturally, I turned to face him, "Taurus did not write those letters to you. I can't believe that stupid, tacky-ass human had the nerve to steal undue credit..."

I arched an eyebrows and placed my hands on my hips, "...Then who wrote them?"

Bowser's jaw snapped shut as his eyes doubled in size. He realized he had suddenly placed himself unwittingly in a hot seat, "Uh..."

"Well, if you know it wasn't Taurus," Still grinning wickedly, I crossed my arms, eyes narrowed as I leaned towards him, "then you know who wrote them right?"

"L-Look, i-it's not important," he spat out, suddenly nervous, "J-Just know Taurus didn't write them alright!? As if that slick-haired bastard could write such high level poetry."

"Then tell me who wrote it," I took several steps closer, eyes burning intently on his person.

"W-Whomever he is, h-he wouldn't want you to know, okay!?" Bowser swallowed loud enough for me to hear.

I approached again, "Bowser, I want to know..."

A curious tendril of sweat dribbled down the side of his face, "I ain't telling you a thing!"

My eyes sparkled with wicked glee, "Bowser, you are going to tell me who wrote those love letters."

Something curious began to happen, Bowser, who was always aggressive and brazen began to back away. With each step I took forward, he mirrored, moving away.

Ah, so we were playing a game of blitty and mouser huh? A sly grin curved across my face, "You're going to tell me who wrote those letters..."

"Over my dead body."

"That can be arranged," I grinned, crackling my knuckles.

I leapt out towards him and he released a startled growl. I laughed as he darted behind a table and I quickly pursued. No wonder why Bowser loved to chase me, this was so much fun! I could finally turn the tables on him. I was close enough to touch him, "Ooh, is the bad big king scared of a tiny princess?"

And with that I reached over the table and tickled his bicep. His face flushed dark red, mouth agog as I burst with laughter. We continued our chase, he was limping as fast as he could and I pursued just fast enough to tail him.

And each time I touched him, I made sure to tickle or prod him. In my most recent success, I smoothed my hand down the length of his arm, enticing a deep purr from the flustered king.

"W-Will you cut that out!?" he growled with no true conviction. He was completely red-faced, and yet again he was nearly blistering hot to the touch, as if his skin was wired to an oven.

But did I care? No. I was too busy laughing my ass off, "Come on Bowwy! Spill!"

He was so flustered so completely frazzled that he didn't realize when I had backed him into a corner and when he realized he had been trapped, it was too late. His eyes darted around wildly as I blocked his path, grinning wildly.

"Now then, why won't you tell me!?" I tapped my foot impatiently, smirking at his flushed face.

"W-Why do you want to know so badly!?" he growled. He clenched his fists, "It's friggin' annoying."

I stared at him as if he were insane, "Because it's a love note! Who doesn't want to know!? Now you're going to tell me who wrote it Bowwy, or else..."

His red eyes watched my every move carefully, "Or else what...?"

I marched closer to him until I was barely a foot away. I placed my hand on his bicep and began to gently rub my hand across the length of his muscular arm. His face slowly grew more and more red and his temperature spiked, skin smoldering as I grinned, "Still not gonna tell huh?"

I normally wouldn't intrude on his personal spaceokay yeah I would because he does it to me all the timebut his completely irrational overreactions and flushed face emboldened my resolve. I grinned, enjoying the odd pull of power I had over the king who was normally so bold and shameless in his actions.

I began to tickle him, laughing as his face burned red.

"Flower q-quit!" He growled through his teeth, face growing more and more red with each passing second.

I was too busy laughing, "Nuh uh! Not until you tell me what I want to knoooow~!"

I continued my relentless tickle attack, fingers scribbling across any unprotected scaly skin they could find. For a moment I thought Bowser had given up; he was squeezed as tightly as he could into the corner and his head was lowered, blocking my view of his face and eyes.

He literally stopped fighting against me, shutting down altogether. I was considering relenting because of his odd lack of reaction until he suddenly bolted forward with a deep rumbling growl. I shrieked as he snatched me, lifting me clear off the floor in one clean motion and reversed our positions.

I found myself with my back against the wall, pinned between him and the wall. I peered at him wide-eyed as the king glowered at me furiously, his face mere inches away.

Though Bowser was snarling, his face was still flushed and his eyes seared a darker, richer mahogany. His breathing was labored, soft pants tickling my cheek as his electric eyes blazed hot.

"If you don't quit," he growled in a deep, rough voice, "I'm going to return the favor. Tenfold. You annoying, sassy, succulent..."

His eyes became hooded as his voice dropped into a rumbling timber, "...naughty little Desert vixen."

There was something about the intensity in his stare that had me double taking. I could feel the strong pounding of his heart in tandem with my own as his heart raced.

I swallowed thickly peering up at him unsurely; there was something wild, and animalistic behind his stare. I blinked, laughing nervously as I was still being pinned under those intense maroon eyes, "Whoa! C-Calm down Bowwy! I was just kidding!"

"Kidding my scaly ass."

I laughed, "I was! I'll quit now, okay? I didn't know it bothered you that much!"

But he didn't let go and for a few long moments he studied me, claws lightly teasing my shoulders and toying with the locks of my hair as he continued to stare intently; I couldn't tell if he was pissed, thinking or confused. I blinked, peering at his odd expression, "Bowser...? Bowwy? You're still holding me."

Holding was an understatement. He was practically crushing me into the wall with very little room between us. My torso was completely mashed against his hard plastron which was beginning to uncomfortably dig into my flesh.

Again he emitted a blistering hot aura, which I didn't know if it resonated from his body temperature or if it was some side effect of his flame breathing.

Bowser blinked, snapping out of his odd trance, "Huh? Oh..."

His eyes became coherent and focused as he carefully let me go, making sure my feet touched the floor before completely relinquishing his hold. I peered at him skeptically as he rubbed the back of his head, "Sorry, crazy Koopa reaction, thing."

I titled my head curiously, "It's a 'Koopa reaction' to go into a trance?"

"Sorta...?" he made sure not to catch my gaze, "It's just that c-certain scents tend to drive you wild. It floods your nostrils and suddenly becomes the only thing you can think of. A-And your scent smells good. Really good."

I blinked, "What do I smell like?"

"It's hard to explain. It's like your scent has layers to it. The most noticeable are koopa berries. You smell like ripe, juicy Koopa berries," I don't think it was intentional when Bowser licked his maw afterwards, "Then there's, floral notes behind that. Then there's a...humany scent..."

I arched a brow, "'Humany scent'? What do humans smell like?"

He shrugged, "Dunno how to explain it. Koopas have a certain base smell, just like humans have a certain scent to them. All creatures have a certain scent to them; Goombas, piranhas...whatever."

"How cool," I was truly intrigued by this, "Does my scent ever change...?"

"Uh..." Bowser's face flushed red as he suddenly coughed into his fist, pointedly clearing his throat, "l-let's talk about something else, eh?"

"Alright," I decided to give him an out on that one. Though I was curious to ask more on the topic. It sounded interesting, human senses were nowhere near as sensitive as those of the Koopa diaspora, "You know, Dad's going to the Aqualands two days from now."

Bowser blinked, "Huh, oh yeah."

I sat on the bed and it wasn't even seconds later that Bowser joined me. Just inches away, I could still feel the blistering envelope of heat surrounding him like a flame.

"He told me he's going fully armed with an entire squadron of guards, so he's going to be safe," I chuckled, "Those Aqualandians will be sorry if they try anything with him. That and he's an expert in judo. He hides it well, but he's no joke."

"Ah," Bowser arched an impish brow and grinned, "So daddy taught you some moves huh? I've seen your roundhouse and it's pretty serious."

"Thanks," I laughed, "Yeah, dad taught me a few basics in self defense. Enough to disarm a foe."

"Your dad's a smart human," Bowser nodded absently, "He seems like a person who plans everything out step by step."

"He's leaving really early, so I'll spend all day with him tomorrow," I smiled back at Bowser, "Who knows, maybe Taurus will stop being an idiot and come to some kind of agreement. Or he'll just leave Sarasaland alone altogether. Both work just fine for me. I wouldn't like to see his face in this lifetime again."

Bowser frowned, peering away, " Flower I've dealt with power-hungry pricks before and I know for a fact Taurus, being the supreme asswipe that he is, is not going to give up. This wi"

I frowned, staring at the bed, "You think something awful is going to happen to him? To Dad? And that Taurus is going to make this really bad for Sarasaland...?"

Unexpectedly, Bowser had a sudden change of heart, "You know what? Maybe...Just maybe I'm wrong. Things will work out. So stop worrying."

"You think things will be okay?" I asked quietly.

"Yeah! Hell, who am I to rain on your parade? Everything's going to work out just fine."

And with that he nudged me lightly in the side. I smiled, returning the gesture. Bowser smirked mischievously, nudging me an eighth harder this time and it started up another playful bout between us.

Neither of us willing to back down, we continued our immature game. I laughed, trying to force him off the bed. The clock in the suite chimed, signaling it was far later than I had expected.

I peered at the clock, "Well, I think I better go. Maids will come into my room and will expect me there."

Bowser smirked, "Alright. Why don't you give a studly king a goodnight hug."

I rolled my eyes, stepping towards him and gingerly wrapped my arms around his middle. He was still warm, not as hot and roasting as before, but pleasantly warm. I froze when I felt a kiss pressed against the top of my hair.

"Sweet dreams Purga," he rumbled, purring.

I pulled away, meeting the bright red eyes of my friend. His gaze was soft, observing. I blinked, realizing he had spoken and that I was staring back at him blankly like an idiot, "Oh...uh...goodnight Bowser."

He walked me to the door and waited for me to leave his sight before closing the door. These kisses certainly were coming more often. Ugh, these past few days have been one helluva emotional rollercoaster ride. You know what will make me feel better? Tomorrow I'll call the Koopalings and talk to them.

I peered back at Bowser's suite. The intense wine-red stare and the blistering heat that radiated off his form; I wonder what that meant for Koopas. Anger? Or...

I shook my head and continued on my way; I had somewhere to be and would be in trouble if I wasn't in my bedchambers soon.


Ass-kissing, though difficult to define, was something everyone knew when they saw it. The self-effacing groveling and overdone flattery universally transcended the well-fortified barriers of race, gender and class.

But as the reigning king of the most affluent kingdom, Bowser had easily become particularly adept at recognizing kiss-assery in its many forms.

Sarasaland may not have been as exuberant and as overt as the Darklands was when it came to kissing-ass—sometimes councilors with shameless loads of kiss ass, sent shitloads of coins and even a beautiful young Koopette or two to tempt the king—but Sarasaland was not to be outdone.

Bowser saw through their ruse with no difficulty whatsoever; Sarasaland was unapologetically trying to keep and win his favor so that upon his return to the Darklands, he would prevent blame from being placed upon Sarasaland for his received injuries.

These past two days brought in new servants—and it was always a young, stunning woman—who would dote upon him; the fleet of flawless maids changed the linens daily so they remained fresh and lightly scented, fluffed his pillows, buttered him up with palatable desserts, expensive chocolates, aged chilled wines and treated him to the most relaxing massages.

Today wasn't any different as a soft wrapping of knuckles tapped against the door. Bowser grunted his ascent and the maid unlocked the door with swift, silent fingers.

Yet again, the maid was another young, beautiful—let's be real here, she was banging—youth and gifted with the telltale Desert features of shimmering dark hair, glowing bronze skin and beguiling, inky eyes.

Her ebony hair fell to her hips in a thick inky veil and the moment they locked stares, she demurely averted her eyes, thick lashes fluttering like wings.

That was another trait Bowser quickly picked up, the women of Sarasaland were a complete contrast from his own; they were demure, quiet, and they moved, as if naturally imbued with such grace.

Darklandian Koopettes were forward, vocal about their thoughts, strong and had a ferocious, fierce beauty about them. Yet where did Flower come in? In a kingdom where silence and patience seemed prized in a woman, she was the direct opposite, willful and proud.

The servant babe fell into a graceful courtesy before sweeping into the room so silently, the King had to strain his sensitive hearing to catch her dainty footfalls.

A soft breath of lavender hit his nostrils as she moved closer, gently changing his bloodied bandages with a touch softer than a dove's breast. She carefully set aside the soiled bandages and smoothed the last, clean cloth over the king's injured arm.

The maid hottie gently placed another chilled bottle of wine at his feet, a bowl of white-chocolate covered strawberries and a large bowl of spicy meat stew. The servant curtsied once more, muttering something in Sarasalandian before quietly turning to leave.

Bowser veraciously dove into the meal, shoveling piping hot spoonfuls of soup until his spoon clattered against the bowel's empty bottom. He drained the wine that was so cold it numbed his fangs and devoured the strawberries until they were gone.

After one loud, satisfied belch later, Bowser reclined in bed; if Sarasaland really wanted his forgiveness, they should stop screwing around and offer their princess' hand in marriage.

Bowser grinned wickedly at the thought; if they did that, I'd more than just forgive them. I'd build them anything they wanted, give any rare gift, slay any enemy they wanted to see dead. ANYTHING.

The door to his room opened. Bowser froze the second Sakuro stepped into the room, with all the warmth and presence of an arctic gale.

The emperor arrived, steps so smooth and quiet he might as well have been gliding. At Sakuro's sudden unexpected approach, Bowser subconsciously sat up straighter, eyes narrowed and guard up.

Sakuro spoke in a smooth, flawless tenor, "Am I to come in...?"

Bowser paused, surprised and a little concerned that he hadn't even bothered to smell the approaching newcomer or even to listen to the pattern of his footfalls. The Emperor of Sarasaland walked as if he had all the time in the universe and was in a rush for no one.

Should he have an audience with the emperor? There was something about the staid, quiet emperor that set the king and his senses on edge.

And Bowser had no idea why. With Mario, it was because the puny dynamo had shown himself as a true threat. Plumber Dickweed was the only force on the planet, in the galaxy maybe that could soundly kick his kingly ass.

But with Sakuro? There was nothing remotely physically threatening about the emperor, in fact Sakuro was old enough to be his dad—he was Flower's.

Emperor Sakuro had delicate aristocratic features more suiting on a doll and his appearance may have been even girly with all that ebony hair.

Someone that refined should not be able to set him on edge. And yet he did. Because there was something cold and smooth and unyielding behind the emperor's blue eyes.

"Uh...yeah," Bowser cursed in his head; don't stumble and stutter over your words like a moron. You're the most powerful king and one insignificant human should not make you feel nervous.

And yet he did.

Maybe it was because Bowser always knew deep down in his gut that the stoic Emperor was watching him. As if Sakuro was diligently analyzing and dissecting his behavior, actions, for any show of flaw.

There was just something about the emperor of Sarasaland that was a blaring paradox; he was chivalrous, mannerly and yet there was something about him that screamed you did not want to mess around and end up on his bad side.

Maybe it was his cutting way with words, or how whenever looked upon you, you felt the tangible weight of his stare and it felt as if he were slowly dissecting you, trying to slowly unlock your deepest secrets...

With no more than a foot between them, the emperor stopped on the dime, as if some invisible barrier prevented him from advancing an inch closer. Sakuro peered at Bowser for a second or two before speaking, "Good morning, King Bowser. How are you fairing?"

Bowser suddenly sat up as straight as he possibly could, expression as hard as slate, "Morning, Emperor," he growled in his deepest timber, "I'm doing well."

Sakuro nodded, glacial blues studying him with that annoying level of intensity again, "That is pleasing to hear. The court of Sarasaland wishes for your rapid recovery. We are elated that your injuries are healing well. We have suggested that the royal physician attend you personally."

Bowser nodded mutely; did anyone ever notice how weird he spoke? It was always Sarasaland this or we of Sarasaland that; it was never an 'I want to see you better' or 'I think you're an asswad.'

It was as if Sakuro spoke for multiple people in one breath. As if Emperor Sarasaland couldn't give a personal opinion of his own. Which was odd, considering how Bowser spoke his mind twenty four seven no matter how crude, blunt or crass his words were.

"Thanks," Bowser grumbled.

Then they were both silent; neither man—nor Koopa—male, guy, whatever liked the other. At all. While Sakuro was pretending to politely study the room's abstract statue sculptures—that in Bowser's opinion looked like two really perverted piranha plants humping each other—Bowser glared in the clear opposite direction.

It may have not been blatantly obvious to Flower—well she was just clueless about most things pertaining to men, especially when it came to how they felt about her—but they both couldn't stand each other.

Where the female gender communicated verbally, with strong eye contact and even touch, men were about territory and postures. Observantly reading the slightest twitch of a muscle or sensing a hostile glower.

One good, solid dirty glare could communicate much more efficiently than words ever could. Sakuro had done that very well in fact, during their first meeting at Daisy's Summani.

A puny human staring him down not only earned his respect, but also challenged his strength. They may have been different species, races, but the language of testosterone was universal. They both knew what the other man wanted and what his endgame was. Flower was the girl and they both loved her very deeply.

Finally Sakuro turned to peer at him, and if Bowser wasn't so on his guard, he would have missed the subtle sweep of the emperor's eyes across his frame, analyzing yet again for weakness; that was a classical masculine technique straight from the man manual, article no. 302, the 'I'm sizing you up to see how much of a punk bitch you are.'

And King Bowser was no one's bitch.

...Unless Princess Daisy donned a skintight black leather catsuit, crazy kick-ass six-inch man-eating heels and cracked a whip with a wild, crazy grin...

Then and only then would he be someone's bitch. For a split second, Sakuro's stern visage evaporated like smoke as Bowser suddenly imagined himself chained up to a wall, held hostage in handcuffs as Daisy—while laughing seductively—cracked a whip and whispered foul things to him with devil-red lips...

"Did you hear me, King Bowser?"

"HUH?" Bowser coughed, quickly clearing his throat, "Oh, uh..."

No. Hell no. Imagination Daisy had been owning him.

"We of Sarasaland greatly admire a woman's virtue and would defend, let alone kill to protect her and her honor. In our custom there is nothing more sacred and admirable than a virtuous woman."

Bowser cracked an eyebrow before saying, "So Taurus is on some Star damn thin ice then for all the crap he's pulled eh?"

Sakuro didn't blink, "Very thin. Anyways, I came in here to inform you of my departure. I'm going to see Prince Taurus, unaccompanied."

Alone? Bowser titled his head and narrowed his eyes until shadows dimmed his glittering irises, "Alone? You shi—kiddin' me? That's got to be the dumbest idea ever. A blind Magikoopa with a bag over his head could even see that trap coming."

"My hands are tied," Sakuro hummed, ignoring the other king's blunt speech, "The entire world is watching to see what Sarasaland will do. How will Sarasaland be remembered? Will we do all within our reasonable power to stop strife, or will our monarchs safeguard our lives and cower behind the walls of our kingdom? One king's life is not worth the turmoil of his people. A true king must do what's best."

The ominous statement hung in the air like a lingering, unpleasant odor. Bowser peered at the emperor warily as the cogs in his mind spun furiously; was this guy willingly going to walk into an obvious ambush!?

There was nothing even remotely trustworthy about Taurus, so again he had to wonder; was Sakuro really going to walk into the Aqualands kingdom with nothing more than a prayer?

"Either you're incredibly crazy or brave," Bowser spoke with no lack of awe. Then he laughed, barely smirking, "Shit, to be frank, I kind of respect that. Walking straight into enemy territory and telling em' 'do your worst.'"

Sakuro, who had been wistfully staring out the window with a far off gaze, finally met stares with Bowser and for once there was no strife or jaded suspicion. Maybe there was even a faintest spark of understanding.

"If I do not return, I'm hoping Sarasaland will be guaranteed an instant military backing from the Darklands...?" Sakuro arched an eyebrow, purposefully letting the morbid statement trail off.

Something cold and anxious roiled uncomfortably within the king's gut, like a serpent squirming around in his stomach, "You don't even have to ask. You realize...Princess Daisy has no clue that you're doing this. She's happily oblivious. She thinks you're going with guards. She wouldn't be okay with this if she knew you were going alone."

Sakuro's eyes narrowed, "She knows good and well that I'm going to the Aqualands."

Bowser laughed with no humor, "She doesn't know that you're blatantly walking into a trap unguarded. And planning not to return."

"And truthfully, I hope it shall stay that way, King Bowser."

Sakuro nodded, and with nothing more to say on the matter, he inclined his head before turning and leaving as quietly as a stared at the doorframe where Sakuro had passed through, awed, confused and maybe even a little disheartened.

That was ominous as hell; that was a man planning his own death, let alone having a hand in digging his own grave. What in the hell was the Emperor's plan here!?

Sakuro seemed hinged on things going very wrong, and if they did, he already had a plan b in motion: the Darklands would mobilize in a united front with Sarasaland and take to arms. And Sakuro knew that anyone the Darklands went against was wrecked.

Boldly marching into inhospitable territory was...Kind of a stud move. Bowser reclined in bed, wondering if there was some kind of back up, or secret service he could send to the Emperor's aid.

He may have not exactly gotten on with the man, but the idea of Sakuro being mercilessly tortured, or ending up dead for defending something as righteous as his daughter's honor didn't sit well within the tattered, remaining threads of conscience he had left. Besides, Sakuro had to be there to give Flower away at their wedding.

"Shit," Bowser sighed, halfway growling the profanity, "If that stuck-up Emperor dies, Flower's going to be miserable and I'm gonna be pissed. And then, people will die by the dozens because the Darklands will mobilize for combat."

Bowser released a sigh, crossing his arms and resting his eyes. All this spurned from Taurus' greed. Maybe Flower won't have to be married to be a queen. If Sakuro doesn't come back, she's going to be ruling Sarasaland pretty soon...

Eyes cut into thin lines, Bowser peered at his smashed phone, the wheels in his head spinning.


The emperor's carriage was ready to depart; it was nearly dawn and the desert was a blistering eighty degrees. A half circle of worried, sweating councilors stood around the Emperor's prepped carriage, wrinkled faces etched with worry and brow lines kissed with perspiration.

Salini and Zero stood nearest to the emperor, concern all but too clear upon their faces. Sakuro peered at Zero and spoke lightly, "You look so troubled young man, worrying will give you premature gray hair. Don't want to end up like your father do you?"

"As long as I've known him, father's always had gray hair," Zero mumbled unenthusiastically.

The High protectorate laughed dryly, "He's right. I've always been old. Must have been at least forty when Zero was born..." Then the high protectorate's face quickly grew ashen, "Sakuro. I must reiterate again how awful this idea is. Sarasaland needs her emperor. The empress needs you, Princess Daisy needs you, she is still too inexperienced to rule. Don't do this to her. Don't do this to us."

In a rare show of emotion, Salini's face grew ashen, wrinkles clustering towards his furrowed brows. He placed a firm hand on the emperor's shoulder and squeezed, "Sakuro quit being foolish now...I've buried your father and I do not plan to see another Desert king buried in my lifetime. I've planned to have you do my eulogy. Don't ruin that for me."

"They're going to make you suffer," Zero whispered, chestnut brown eyes alive with emotion, "You'll wish you've never been born. The Aqualands is famed for its vicious water boarding. They'll make your end awful."

Sakuro's face grew smooth and cold and emotionless, "I certainly hope they do. Because if I survive, I'd come after them with a tenacity rarely seen and make them wish they'd never been conceived."

The emperor turned to face his younger brother, who looked far too serious and somber. Sakuro smirked with no real humor, "Is this the lengths I had to take to get you to look so serious?"

"Sakuro," Apricotto even spoke in a deep timbre, "If...If you don't come back...I swear...I-I'm going to kill those Aqualandian royals...A-And I'd see each one of them gone."

"Don't be ridiculous," Sakuro frowned, "You hate violence, you can't stand the sight, let alone smell of blood. You fainted when you accidentally broke your nose as a child because you were bleeding."

"I won't let my brother go off and get killed!" Apricotto hissed, blue eyes blazing, "I'm n-not gonna see Mom cry, o-or see Daisy become an orphan! Don't expect me to sit back and be okay with this!"

Sakuro placed a calming hand on his brother's shoulder, "She won't be an orphan with you, Mother and Peach watching her, the way the Stars watch over the earth. I need you to be their rock."

"Me? I-I'm no good for that," Apricotto frowned, "You are the rock! You're serious and smart, smarter than I'll ever be. You come ba—"

"Apricotto," Sakuro deadpanned, "I need you to be their rock. Can. You. Do that? One last thing for me? One last thing for your older brother."

Apricotto's anger dissolved as he grimaced, "'One last thing'? One last thing!? Stars, did you mean to say that!?"

"Can you do it?" Sakuro whispered, staring dead into the blue rings of his brother's eyes.

Apricotto peered at him like a kicked puppy; eyes enlarged and mouth trembling, as if words or wails wanted to explode from beneath his lips. He took a deep sigh of acquittal, looking more miserable than before, "Okay...I can do it. I will."

Sakuro allowed the briefest of smiles to flicker across his face. Apricotto pulled him into a harsh, terse hug and squeezed him hard enough that the emperor felt his lower vertebrae pop.

With one last embrace, Sakuro pulled away and purposefully ignored Apricotto. Those big, blue eyes would destroy the last of his resolve, which had been gradually dwindling each passing second. Sakuro released a trembling breath and turned to Toss, "Ready?"

Toss was frowning, eyes dark and clouded with emotion but he managed to nod. He opened the door and bowed as Sakuro quickly slid into his seat.

The door closed and it wasn't seconds later when the carriage began to rock with movement. The emperor peered at the Sarasalandian palace retreating into the horizon, wondering if this would be the last time he saw it.

Mother...

Chisana...

Sakuro closed his eyes, bowing his head as he waited for the upsetting waves of nausea to pass. He took a sip of iced water to soothe his parched throat, only to realize his stomach was so bloated with nerves and guts that he nearly up heaved right then and there.


The arrival into the freezing, showery Aqualands territory was a sharp contrast from the comforting dry arid heat Sakuro had been used to. The sky above was a dour, brewing stew of ugly gray clouds pregnant of rain and cold misery. Sakuro watched the scenery pass by lethargically, mind too cluttered with scattered thoughts to truly take in everything around him.

He jolted when the carriage came to an abrupt halt and the emperor realized with no small touch of dread that the Aqualandian palace stood before him, reaching and stretching until the tops of the castle vanished within opaque clouds of mist and fog.

Sakuro stepped out of the carriage, hands trembling so badly that he carefully hid them within his long sleeves. He nodded to Toss who had neatly fallen into a bow.

It had been seconds since their arrival and already the Aqualandian guards approached, long strides devouring the distance. Their ebon armor gleamed like obsidian and their weapons, though not poised for a strike, were in sight and obvious.

Toss turned to peer at his king nervously and when he spoke, it was barely a whisper, "Sire. I must insist that you don't do this. Walking into their castle completely unguarded is suicidal!"

Sakuro peered ahead, expression deadlocked in stone, " If they've planned to have me killed, then there was nothing stopping them the moment we crossed their borders. They are aware that we come unaided. The prince wishes to hear me out."

The Toad servant grew silent, but his eyes were pleading, "Please don't do this Emperor. I've been driving your carriage for over twenty something years. You gave me my first job, and you personally gave me a raise when you heard how the bank was going to foreclose my house...I can't leave you here. I. Just. Can't."

Sakuro coolly gauged their approaching company; the Aqualandian guards were just about on top of their position, close enough that their silver eyes were visible from beneath their fin-shaped helmets. The Emperor's eyes briefly flickered across their sharp lances and blades before smoothly turning to Toss.

"Keep the promise you've made me," Sakuro's face was carefully void of any emotion, "that if I don't return within an hour, you vacate the kingdom immediately."

Toss's expression crumpled, contorting with anguish, "Sire..."

"Leave the carriage behind. There's no sense in dragging any deadweight. Starblaster is a quick steed, he'll get you to the Sarasalandian border within half an hour."

The loud clinking of armor stopped directly behind them; the Aqualandians must have been a breadth away. Toss quickly staggered away, face growing ashen as the line of stern-faced guards loomed nearer, "Emperor, the prince will see you now. Please accompany us to the throne room."

"Yes of course, please lead the way gentlemen," Sakuro locked gazes with Toss, sending him one last meaningful stare before turning and following the armed procession into a green lush garden.

The garden was beautiful and diligently well-manicured; flowers bloomed in fresh, fragrant bright bursts, bushes and various deciduous trees were artfully shaped like majestic sea creatures. Upon their short march to the palace, their congregation passed by a shattered golden statue.

Glittering golden chunks were scattered along the stone tiles indecorously and disconcertingly enough, half of a shattered golden head lay gruesomely on the floor like the remains of a decapitated casualty.

Sakuro mentally brushed over a few facts, remembering that the wrecked statue was a point of contention with the Aqualands; it had been wrecked during Daisy's kingdom tour and though there had been no witnesses to the event, the Aqualands was more than happy to pile the blame upon Sarasaland.

However, seeing the beheaded statue in ruin did nothing to quell the emperor's growing anxieties, if anything the desecrated sculpture was left to candidly let him know of how very unaccommodating the Aqualands was going to be.

The guards unrolled the large, creaking double doors and stepped aside to allow entry. A sentinel turned to glower at him, "His majesty awaits you in the room dead ahead."

Sakuro nodded before stepping in and there was a loud, thunderous rattle as the large doors behind him rolled shut. This was it, the moment of truth: he was officially sealed in, alone within a sea of discontented foes. A cold, clammy dread coiled within the pit of the emperor's stomach and clenched his innards mercilessly.

Another vicious wave of nauseous nearly made Sakuro double over. He was miles away from his kingdom, too far to flee to his mount and his exposed back was wide open for any discontented Aqualandian spear or blade.

Sakuro took several deep breaths before straightening up, wiping the sweat from his hairline and setting his face in its famed neutrality.

Now was certainly not the time for weakness. The oily, calculating eyes of the Aqualandians were upon him, watching and analyzing for the slightest sign of weakness: flushed skin, quaking hands, sweat upon the brow.

Yet they were sorely pressed for luck because they would not know how parched his throat was or how wildly his heart raced or how ill he felt; Emperor Sakuro's visage was perfectly composed. And with all his famed regality and poise, he sauntered to the throne room.

The emperor wordlessly glided passed the elegant lines of ebony armor and stepped into the throne room where he found Prince Taurus resting upon his father's large throne, posture relaxed and loose. The prince's silver eyes narrowed as the thinnest slip of a smirk crossed his visage.

It was custom to have a monarch's arrival announced, but most importantly it was unspeakably rude, borderline hostile to have a guest appear unannounced and that's exactly what Taurus had arranged.

Neither man was unaware of the intentional belligerence and Sakuro was positive the Aqualandian prince wanted him to feel uneasy. A pregnant pause lingered in the throne room as neither man spoke.

Emperor Sakuro stood before the throne with a perfectly straight face, posture tall, strong and unrelenting; while it was protocol to be announced so too was it customary for a visitor to bow while visiting a court.

And Sakuro didn't.

This time Taurus couldn't hide his amused smirk; what an arrogant man. Not bad considering how pathetic Sarasaland is. The Aqualandian prince finally grew tired of their stare down and decided to get to business. Taurus lazily flicked his palm, sending his guards out the room and once they were alone, he spoke.

"I see no point in useless etiquette and pleasantries," Taurus began in a relaxed, smooth drawl, smiling as he spoke, "We both are busy men and have other things to see to. To be frank, I have demands to be met."

"And if they are reasonable, Sarasaland shall accommodate a cooperative Aqualands," Sakuro replied perfunctorily, "In a show of Sarasaland's fortitude and goodwill, I have made an appearance at your behest."

"Your court, your daughter have offended my people, have besmirched my sensibilities," Taurus leaned forward slowly, interlacing his digits together, "Atonement for Sarasalands' actions are the only medicating choice of action. What do you offer to mollify this discord?"

"There's little doubt in my mind you'd like reparations," Sakuro spoke coolly, "However you forget yourself prince. Sarasaland has not come to the Aqualandian court to apologize nor rationalize our princess' behavior. We have come to graciously accept an apology and reopen trade."

Unbridled surprise flashed across the prince's handsome features before Taurus began to laugh deeply, truly amused, "What? 'Accept my apology' did you say? My word that's hilarious. Emperor Sakuro, you've been heralded as brilliant, and yet your behavior sorely contradicts such acclamation. You think I will apologize? Absurd."

Sakuro didn't bat an eye, "I come here willing to overlook your grave trespasses against Sarasaland and her princess. You would be wise to set your ego aside for the sake of peace."

"And perhaps Emperor, for the sake of peace you will apologize and then we shall speak of a trade agreement again," Taurus was still grinning, finding the entire stint amusing.

Sakuro subtly raised a brow, "An apology issued from Sarasaland will reinstate our agreement?"

"An apology I deem as proper will reinstate our water agreement at a third of what it once was prior to this mishap. And if Sarasaland continues to behave," Taurus shrugged noncommittally, grinning "then I will return the treaty as it was."

If Taurus hadn't been watching the emperor closely, he would have missed how Sakuro's eyes narrowed fractionally, "I'm afraid this is where we must disagree. Sarasaland finds the contingences of your plan both flawed and insulting."

Yet again Taurus balked with loud, ringing laughter, smiling wide enough that his entire front row of teeth were showing, "How so Emperor? Please clarify exactly what it is that you—I mean—Sarasaland finds insulting. The only thing I find insulting is how unspeakably rude your little princess is."

"The Aqualands are at complete liability and yet fault is childishly passed onto the shoulders of the crown princess for your reprehensible behavior." Sakuro recited everything with a nearly mechanized, stoic countenance. This was business, and Taurus' immature jabs at his daughter wouldn't get in the way of what Sakuro had been brought here for.

Taurus rested his spine against the throne, silver eyes sharp and cut into thin slits as he grinned, "Truth be told Emperor, I like that you speak the bold-faced truth. Too many royals are nothing but simpering sycophants filled with hot air and hauteur and originally I thought of you similar to them but beneath all those spun words is honesty."

The prince paused, either for effect or because he was truly considering his words. Sakuro didn't care what his modus operandi was, he was only listening for words relevant to their business as everything else—the hauteur and court circus tricks—went in one ear and passed through the other.

"I consider myself a fair man," Taurus indulgently studied his fingernails, "I shall propose a new, agreeable bargain because I like you. If you give me your princess, I will forget this entire thing. As if it had never happened. The trade agreement will be fully reinstated as it once was, and we shall no longer hold embittered resentment. We both win: Sarasaland will have a wed princess and all the water her wells need as the Aqualands will save face. How's that?"

Sakuro barely arched a dubious brow, "Sarasaland finds herself perplexed. You wish to take our princess as a bride?"

"As a gift," Taurus was smiling.

An abrupt hot flash of anger pulsed within the emperor's blood, one that he had to quickly quell with well-honed patience. This man was demanding to have his precious Chisana offered up to him like a trinket, like a prize.

Sakuro took an unnoticeable deep breath, slowly exhaling through his nostrils to slow the heated, agitated blood racing through his calmly acknowledged the prince's arrogance and entitlement and forcibly pressed his own emotions aside.

Sarasaland before self. Kingdom before self-interest. Business before emotion. Stay centered.

After exhaling a calming deep breath through his nose, Sakuro was back under control and neutral. When the Emperor spoke, none of his underlying ire surfaced on his face, "Princess Sarasaland is the pearlescent gem in Sarasaland's illustrious crown. She is not to be bartered like common trade."

"What was that garbage you said when you first walked in here?" Taurus' silver eyes glittered like quicksilver, "Some hot air about Sarasaland being accommodating? Just so you remember we hold all the cards and we're upset with your kingdom. I've stated my terms. Do you want a war over this emperor?" Taurus grinned, "Because I will see your pathetic people crushed and then I will take your daughter as my slave."

The emperor remained silent. He finally released a sigh, one which Taurus took as a show of weakness. Prince Aqualands grinned with malicious amusement, "What's the matter Emperor? Finally seeing all the trouble that worthless girl has caused?"

"I was told the ruler of the Aqualands was an impudent child," Sakuro spoke noncommittally as if commenting on something as trivial as the climate, " but they failed to mention how selfish and absolutely foolish you are. You have my deepest sympathies child."

Taurus abruptly stopped smiling, eyes narrowed and thin.

"Once upon a time your father and I were great friends. He must be rolling over in his grave to have his heir ruining his legacy. In the future I must remind myself not to think of you when I think of King Aries, it would be awful to soil his memory with the thought of your misdeeds."

A hot prickle of ire shot up Taurus' spine so quickly that he jerked to his feet unsteadily, rising so fast that for a second his vision spun.

Teeth clenched in a twisted snarl, Taurus' eyes flashed, irises scorching white with rage as Sakuro continued serenely, "You are nothing more than a boy pretending to be a man, a child sitting upon a pricey throne and yet knowing nothing of its regulation nor of its true power."

"You insolent," Taurus' voice rattled unsteadily, face turning pink with anger, "Insignificant, Desert pea—"

"The expense of war is costly, paid with precious blood and lives that can never be repaid," Sakuro didn't blink, "Understanding this balance is paramount to being a great ruler. And you sorely lack this ability."

"You will respect me," Taurus growled. His digits clenched the arms of the throne so tightly that the tips of his fingers became red.

"You could give Sarasaland all the water it needed and I would not think any better of you," with a pointed motion, the emperor turned his back on Taurus and the Aqualandian throne, "this has been a futile attempt to change the unalterable. I will take my leave of you."

Taurus rose to his feet, eyes blazing and face as red as a sparky, "I'm not through with you yet Sakuro," he was so furious, so unhinged that when he spoke, spittle flew from his mouth, "You won't go anywhere until I send you on your way."

The emperor continued to make headway for the exit, tuning out the raging prince's needling words as he walked with all the poise and regality worthy of his station.

In a last, desperate attempt to shatter Sakuro's superiority, Taurus shot out, "It's ironic how you admonish me for being a disgrace and yet your little redheaded harlot is the true disgrace."

The emperor slowed his amble, finally coming to a complete stop. For a moment Sakuro paused, as if deliberating over his choice of action.

The decision didn't take much thought as Sakuro turned to face the prince, expression perfectly blank. The weight of the emperor's attention meant that Taurus had another opportunity to slander Sarasaland, but most importantly to insult their princess.

Taurus' wild grin softened fractionally, with the power back in his possession, he could afford to relax. He even sank comfortably into his father's throne, reclining airily, "You don't know about that, do you? The shame of it all. I suppose you are ignorant of your daughter's wayward activities."

"As mentioned previously, Princess Sarasaland is the pearlescent gem in Sarasaland's crown. Her virtue, modesty and wondrous jollity is a shining, glittering star that many others wish to emulate. Is this Aqualandian etiquette? Do you make a habit of wasting time with slandering?"

"Oh how fun," Taurus purred, "I get to be the one to break the news to you. Only fitting I suppose since everyone in Sarasaland is terribly disillusioned. You all seem to think upsetting me is your wisest course of action."

"You've made a myriad of mistakes today, with your most recent in thinking that Sarasaland still concerns herself with the Aqualands opinions."

"Good. Then I won't feel too bad telling you of how your daughter has been shamelessly fucking that lizard king," Taurus laughed, speaking as airily as if he were talking about something as mundane as the weather, " She's just as big of a whore as her grandmother was back in her youth."

Sakuro reacted subtly, eyes tightening and lips pulling into a thin, dissatisfied line. Taurus would have missed it if he hadn't been watching very carefully, "Oh why that look emperor? Didn't you know?"

Taurus chuckled urbanely, "Since Sarasaland doesn't, what was it you said, 'concern herself with the Aqualands opinions' then I won't feel too bad airing out a secret held between our kingdoms. My grandfather fu—pardon meslept with your mother, Empress Meringue. Sixtyish something odd years ago, she willingly hopped into bed with my grandfather for something as stupid as well water. Looks like it runs in the family eh? I suppose Meringue taught her granddaughter those same loose morals. Funny how things come to a complete circle."

"Lying about such things is beneath even you," Sakuro spoke through his teeth.

"I do not lie, Sakuro," Taurus was still grinning, "Ask your mother if you don't believe me."

That last thread of indecency seemed to finally fray the Emperor's extensive patience. Sakuro cut Taurus a glare so ruthless, that the Aqualandian prince broke into laughter, "Oh finally. So he does have emotions after all! You know what is so sad about all of this? I could have married your daughter and have made her a decent, upstanding lady. But she followed her grandmother's road and became a worthless whore fit to service the lowest trash like lizards. At least Meringue had enough self-respect to stick with human men."

Taurus stopped his buoyant laughter, sneering with iniquitous joviality, "Now I'm done with you. Take you, and your pathetic, whorish daughter and leave my sights. Consider us hostile, Emperor. Get the hell out."

Sakuro stared at Taurus wordlessly, blue eyes blazing and shoulders tense, "You know, once Sarasaland wished for peace and a restored treaty, but I, Emperor Sakuro wish you would be so foolish as to bring bloodshed into my kingdom."

The emperor approached the throne until he stood inches from Taurus. Taurus must have felt that there was genuine peril with Sakuro's advance as he quickly rose to his feet for a confrontation. Sakuro openly scoffed, "Take a seat, you are no more a threat to me than an unhatched Yoshi egg is to a Koopa."

"Still impetuous Saku—?"

Taurus halted when Sakuro was but a breadth way. They were so close that Taurus could clearly see several different hues of blue within the emperor's irises.

"Just to set things straight," Sakuro spoke in a low growl, "I've run a kingdom longer than you've been alive child. My kingdom has been threatened by men twice as dangerous and twice as powerful and Sarasaland has triumphed. You are but a simple, insignificant smear hardly worthy of sharing the same air. In case you are slow or hard of hearing, Sarasaland will prosper long after you are gone. But hear me prince, insult my precious daughter and my mother one last time and that will be your last breath you draw. I have ways to make useless, empty-headed little princes disappear and never return."

The court was dead silent as both men glared one another down with blistering, baleful hatred. Taurus sneered, refusing to blink, refusing to break eye contact with a man who just openly and boldly threatened him in his own court. Bolstering that speech with a cutting glare, the emperor turned on his heel and left.

As Sakuro strolled away, back unprotected and completely open, Taurus glared furiously. His silver eyes flickered to a lone figure that stood high above a balcony that loomed over the throne room.

The figure had remained hidden for the duration of the talk. Taurus motioned to the guard with the quiver of arrows on his back with a curt nod, and with a quick responding nod of his own, the archer slowly slipped after the emperor.


As Sakuro stepped outside of the palace, blood rushed through his ears as his adrenaline raced through his body like a livewire. The negotiation had gone horribly wrong and Taurus had revealed himself to not only be of squalid character but perhaps even a sociopath.

A man who threw around war like a taskmaster would a whip, sharp and jarring, to selfishly achieve his goals was no one who should have the complete power of a throne backing his madness. Armies, generals and war heroes were at his every will and whim.

The crunch of a brittle twig made Sakuro freeze and his blazing adrenaline tripled. The sound came from behind, as if someone were trailing him. Hunting him.

So this was it, wasn't it? In his ire Taurus had sent someone to assassinate him. As a child learning history, Sakuro had always wondered if the slain leaders of the past knew their death was coming.

Did they willingly carry on, knowing their end was imminent? Or were they completely clueless of the venomous plots brewing and conspiring against them?

Sakuro wondered how history would portray him; would he be the overly optimistic king that blindly and stupidly trusted a bold-faced, deceptive Aqualandian Prince? Or would he be shown as brave, courageously facing his death head on for the sake of his people?

Sakuro closed his eyes, an ominous requiem lingering over him like a cloud of death. Drawing strength to himself, he slowly turned to face his would be murderer. If he was to die, then he would do it bravely facing his foe. He wouldn't die as a coward.

Chisana, I hope King Bowser holds true to his word to protect you. Don't worry my child, you won't be alone. Your Uncle, Grandmother and cousin will take care of you. I only wish I had more time...

Face set in stone, Sakuro turned to meet his destiny head on. His mind raced for a few witty words to throw out before he was slain. Instead of glittering blades and spears, Sakuro nearly jumped out of his skin when a loud, friendly, rambunctious, "Heya Emperor! There you are! I knew you'd be around here somewhere!"

The emperor nearly had a heart attack; first the fear of looming, stealthy assassins and now startling booming voices. If someone didn't off him soon, just the sheer stress of everything was going to kill him. Sakuro discreetly placed a hand over his heart, trying to calm its irregular, panicked thumping.

It was a pleasant surprise that his pursuers were friendly-looking Canines—if you could consider the wild honey eyes and feral smiles as friendly.

The first was a tall woman with a long, wild mass of ebony hair and a curvaceous build. If she didn't have such a crazy, bloodthirsty grin marring her features she could be attractive.

"Lady Kitsune...?" Sakuro was still breathless from the thought of an imminent death, "What are you...?"

"Long time no see Sa-ku-ro," Kitsune grinned good-naturedly and jabbed him in the shoulder. The blow was hard enough to make Sakuro stagger.

Sakuro frowned, realizing he would soon have a bruise there. Kitsune either didn't care, or didn't notice, probably the former, "It's good to see you! I came here to hash somethings out with Aqualands," she smirked, "they did assault an heir to Land's End, but most importantly they assaulted my pup. As if I'd let that slide."

"I'm afraid I came for the same reasons," the male Canine was tall. Tall, as in if he stood beside the monstrous King Bowser, he would not look diminutive.

The newcomer eyed the emperor before smiling kindly, lacking the bloodthirsty element most Canine smiles held, "Ah, you must be the emperor of Sarasaland huh? Nice to meet you, I'm Lobos. The Clan Alpha of the Western Land's End territories."

After studying the newcomer's features, too many similarities suddenly jumped out at the Emperor, "...You must be Lord Wolfebane's father, he looks just like you."

Lobos smiled broadly; they even had the same aluminous, infectious smile. He and Wolfe shared the same powerful build, towering height and the same comely facial features. The only defining difference was that Lobos was gigantic and able to grow a beard, "Yes, Wolfe's my pup, and this—"

Lobos smirked mischievously as his golden eyes glittered. He reached for Kitsune, "—beautiful, vivacious woman is my wife."

Kitsune snorted, dodging the overfriendly arm, "Please. We ain't hitched. Ignore this idiotic lug. Apparently after all these years he's still trying to get some."

Get some? Get some what? Sakuro wasn't quite sure he wanted that question answered. Lobos batted his eyelashes as he held a hand over his wounded heart, "Must you be so cold to me, woman? I live to hear the sound of your melodious voice and to taste the sweetness of your smile."

Kitsune rolled her eyes, and pinched the bridge of her nose, "Idiot. I'm sure this is the last place you want to be, Sakuro. Say, I have an idea. How about we hitch a ride in your carriage together? We'll head the same direction until we gotta break ways, sound good?"

Still unusually insipid, Sakuro numbly nodded; he was smart enough to realize offered protection when he heard it. He walked with Kitsune and Lobos, barely realizing when both Canines flanked him on either side like personal bodyguards.

Sakuro swallowed, ignoring his parched throat, "How...? How did you find me?"

"Your scent duh," Kitsune smirked, "You're the only Highlander I know who smells like sandalwood and books. Still the biggest nerd, I see."

"No I mean...how did you know when I would...?"

"Oh I get what you mean," Kitsune grinned, "A certain Koopa King thought it would be best if we met in the Aqualands together. You know, as disgruntled parents or something. My kid was attacked within these lands and your girl was assaulted by the crown prince."

So King Bowser had sent the Canines after him—to save his ass more like it. Bowser had been wily enough to find an appropriate party to infiltrate the Aqualand borders without raising an alarm—sending a band of his own Darklandian soldiers would have been too suspicious—and the Canines wishing to smooth things out was reasonable enough.

The Canines were well-known to be impetuous, so a spontaneous, sudden appearance wouldn't be unwarranted nor unusual for them.

And that's what this sounded like; they suddenly wanted to meet about their heir being attacked and the Aqualands allowed it; the Canines held no ill will and their motives checked out.

Well played, King Koopa. Even after all the trouble I've put him through, he still helps me...Was I wrong about him? Perhaps I think far too low of him...

Every so often, a lingering band of Aqualandian guards would appear. They watched the royals leave with hostile, blank stares that seemed soulless and cold.

Sakuro was positive that he wouldn't have left here alive without the two Canine alphas. Kitsune and Lobos watched the guards they passed with varying expressions.

Kistune's demeanor was hostile and fearless; her golden eyes remained narrowed as Lobos remained perfectly cool, almost genial as he nodded to the guards.

Lobos was positive none of the silly Fishhead guards would be dumb enough to get into a fight with a lumbering, muscular Canine warrior who had a massive spiked club strapped to his back.

The sight of the shimmering, ominous spears and brandished swords made the emperor's stomach twist; was he supposed to have been skewered by one of their blades?

Sakuro knew the only reason he was still breathing was that by some miraculous event or through King Bowser's planning, Kitsune and Lobos found him and were all but safely escorting him back to his carriage.

Sakuro never thought he'd be so happy to see his carriage, his driver again. A wave of relief soaked through his entire being as he realized that this would be a trip he would return from.

Toss' head popped up and at the sight of his approaching emperor, he glowed with elation. Two large Chows idled beside the carriage, peering up at the approach of their masters. Toss was so happy at his emperor's return that he lost his professionalism and darted over, "Emperor Sakuro! You're—!"

"Toss, will you open the doors? We'll be having a little more company than expected," Sakuro motioned to the two Canines alphas beside him.

"O-Of course Sire!" With a bow, Toss darted away and opened the door for the royals. The second Sakuro slipped into the carriage, exhaustion hit him like a freight train. He sank bonelessly into the fresh upholstery and breathed a deep, rattling breath of relief.

Kitsune and Lobos entered seconds later and it wasn't too soon when the carriage began to bounce, rocking over the gravel road. Sakuro closed his eyes, hoping to nab a few hours of rest, but wasn't granted that liberty just yet.

The collar of his robe was roughly grabbed and he was shoved against the velvet walls roughly. When his eyes snapped open, he had a face full of snarling, pissed-off Kitsune borrowing down on him.

Lobos frowned, "My Stars, I've been hitting on you all day and he gets the rough-kinky treatment? Tch!"

"You stupid, idiotic Highlander," Kitsune growled, focusing all her furious energies on Sakuro, "What the hell where you thinking walking into that obvious-ass ambush!? Huh!? You've got ten seconds to explain shit to me before I whip your hoity toity ass in your own fancy carriage. I barely managed to get here in time, you're lucky Nuttsy is one helluva fast runner! Do you know what they would have done to you!?"

"Kitsune," despite the too real threat of getting his ass handed to him on a platter by a very capable woman, Sakuro spoke calmly, tiredly.

"They might have tortured you, beat you stupid, or even beheaded you in a public square!"

"Kitsune."

"I should beat you 'til your brain starts working again," she snarled, golden eyes narrowing further. The longer she thought about it, the more she grew angrier and the tighter her grip squeezed "Smacking you up a bit would make me feel better..."

"Kitsune..."

"Those stupid Fishfaces would have cut your head off and mailed it to your daughter. Do you think Meringue's heart could take that!? You may be okay with gambling your life away, but I ain't. I promised Rosie I'd watch over you. You and Girly. And I'd be damned if I let you get killed."

"Kitsune..."

"What!?" she finally snapped, "What? Sakuro? What!? What have you got to say for your frickin' stupidity!?"

"Thank you," he smiled softly.

Kitsune stared at him wordlessly, brows furrowing in confusion. Her mouth worked silently as her mind tried to come up with a suiting answer. Finally she glared at him, half confused and half furious, "You're thanking me for manhandling your ass?"

Lobos laughed, "No Kitty. He's happy that you've got his back. And that you have the interest of his daughter and mother in mind. He knows good and well that he had openly walked into an ambush. No need to beat him over the head about it. The poor man looks as pale as a boo. Can't blame him really."

Finally Kitsune eased off. She let go of his collar and slowly slipped back into her proper seat. Though her anger had cooled, she still didn't look anywhere near happy.

Kitsune nodded curtly, "You're welcome Emperor," then she shot a glare at Lobos, "And don't call me that."

"Oh?" Lobos wagged his eyebrows playfully, "you used to like when I called you that."

"I don't anymore, Idiot. Quit being so damn desperate, Sakuro has to think you're the saddest man in existence," she huffed.

"Then make me the happiest man in existence and say you'll be mine?" Lobos purred, slowly slinking in Kitsune's direction.

"Get over yourself."

"Over? How about you get under me?"

"How about you get under my fist."

As the two Canines continued to quarrel, flirt, or whatever they were doing, Sakuro released a deep sigh, slumping against the comfortable seating. He closed his eyes and cherished the idea that he would return home, he could see his mother again, and he could see his beloved, precious daughter.

"...You watch your damn hands! You try anything funny and I'll give you a swirly."

"Oh come on Kitty, don't pretend as if you don't like what these hands can do to you."

Sakuro released a sigh; he was so relieved that the weird Canine flirt tactics weren't even annoying. He closed his eyes, completely exhausted.


As the Emperor's carriage and the two accompanying Chows raced towards the setting red and orange crisscrossed horizon, Taurus stood at his balcony. Arms crossed and eyes narrowed, he stood beside an archer. Both men watched the Emperor flee their borders.

The archer turned to look at his prince, "We could always have the guards go after them. Apprehending them would be no trouble at all."

"No, the time has passed," Taurus replied, eyes steely, "We had our window of opportunity and missed it. I certainly wasn't expecting those Canine savages to show up for a 'meeting.'"

"No one did," the archer growled, "And by the way Sir, the colonel has informed me that the Canine 'meeting' was complete Bloopershit. They didn't come here to even discuss anything. It was a ruse."

"Ah, so the Canines came to save the emperor," Taurus purred thoughtfully, "Intriguing. Too bad, it certainly would have been quite a wondrous surprise to have mailed the emperor's head to Princess Sarasaland as a nice gift."

The archer grinned, "Or to have decorated our outside wall as a souvenir."

Taurus laughed, "The emperor does have nice, long hair doesn't he? His skull would have been such a pretty addition."

Both Aqualandians laughed as they watched the last of the carriage disappear into the blazing, fuchsia skyline.

"So now what Sir?" As the archer turned to face his prince, his silver quiver glowed under the dying sunlight, "We simply let them go?"

Taurus smirked, "This is just the beginning. Now we finally have the means to really get them. Come, let's have some tea. Mother's expecting our company."

The archer bowed as Taurus shot one last glare at the disappearing carriage before he turned on his heel and reentered the palace.


Darkness had bled into the fresh hours of midnight when the first sighting's of Emperor Sakuro's carriage near the Sarasalandian border were learned. The guards at the isolated outposts cried out, rushing with a mixture of dread, relief and fear as they raced to see their emperor.

Meanwhile miles and several golden seas of sands away, the Sarasalandian palace pulsed with anxiety, fear and the air smelt pungently of dried sweat and stale air. Not a single councilman had retired home for the evening.

All of the council had gathered in a remote common study, staring blankly at walls or pacing agitatedly. Maids had been hard at work through the long hours of night, keeping the councilors fed and happy with a steady diet of lavender tea and fresh, sweet bread pastries.

Zero had been pretending to brush up on the history of Sarasalandian economic policies, but the entire night he did little more than stare at the pages, unseeing the words. His father, the High Protectorate Salini had been pacing a path into the floor, features closed in a stern fold of frown lines and furrowed brows.

A servant approached the agitated High Protectorate. Knowing good and well that his patience was exceptionally short today, the servant met him with a formal bow before swiftly announcing the return of the emperor's carriage. The High Protectorate nearly stumbled, before summoning his son and the other councilors into action.

Salini leaned forward, cloaks of shadows filtrating his somber visage, "Have you informed the guards?"

"Of course Sir, they're already approaching the front gates."

"And King Apricotto is informed?"

"Yes Sir, just as you instructed. The Queen is resting well and Princess Sarasaland is soundly asleep as well."

Salini's breath grew shallow, "Is the King...well?"

The servant smiled, "The border patrol reports that the Emperor is alive."

"Good," Salini released a breath of reprieve, of relief that didn't show up in his stern features, "Have the physician at the door. Get a move on lad."

It wasn't even moments later when the councilors rushed through the palace and flew outside in a flurry of fluttering robes, sweat and wheezing breath. Already a small procession of guards had gathered, awaiting the approaching carriage.

The High Protectorate shoved and pushed his way to the front of the group, noting that both King Apricotto and Lady Angora were present.

Angora, who had always been pragmatic and level-headed was openly weeping as she waited curbside with unusually vulnerable, wet eyes. She hurriedly dabbed a handkerchief at a glistening trail of mascara leaking down her pale cheek.

King Apricotto appeared the most out of sorts, it was unnerving that the usually juvenile, mischievous king looked so somber. Zero squeezed into a spot beside his father, peering at the horizon where the emperor's carriage was clearly in sight.

The carriage was flanked by a fleet of Sarasalandian border patrol and the moment the carriage pulled to a halt in front of the palace, Toadux spearhead an armed brigade and approached the carriage. Stonefaced, Toadux's jaw clenched as he mentally prepared himself for whatever horror lay within the emperor's carriage.

He opened the door and for a terrifying moment everyone held their breaths, praying, hoping that the Emperor was truly okay. Alive and well were not synonymous. Sakuro stepped out, looking whole, unscathed and most importantly alive.

Lady Angora emitted a relieved sob, her eyes sparkling with unshed tears as Apricotto and the royal physician approached the Emperor.

Apricotto pulled his older brother into a hug, laughing and smiling once again. The physician saw no blood, saw no life endangering injuries as Sakuro confirmed that not a single hand had been placed on his person.

The physician blinked, peering at the king's shoulder and saw a purpling bruise, "Milord, what is this?"

It was the spot where Kitsune had amiably punched the shit out of him. But he wouldn't let them know that. Sakuro kept a perfectly straight face, " Perhaps I bumped into column earlier today. Memory escapes me."

"His majesty is known for his grace and poise...How odd..." the physician hummed.

"Hey, can the Emperor go ahead and rest or what!?" Apricotto bellowed, "The man looks tired! He has to be when dealing with the stupid Fishies!"

"Very well," The physician nodded, "Despite fatigue, His Majesty has a clean bill of health. You may go ahead and rest for the evening."

Sakuro nodded tiredly, "Thank you."

Apricotto wasted no time, quickly leading his brother into the palace. Sarasaland let out a collective sigh of relief; the Emperor was fine, withstanding the dark circles under his eyes and his unkempt robes and tousled locks. The High Protectorate sighed deeply, "Sire...I cannot begin to express how good it is to see you..."

"Likewise Councilor..." Sakuro smiled very weakly, "I'm sure everyone wants to know every last detail about the meeting, but I find my strength depleted. Perhaps we can talk about this tomorrow?"

"Absolutely Sire," Salini smiled tiredly himself, "Rest well."

Sakuro and Apricotto checked on their resting mother, who was sound asleep and according to the yawning, bleary-eyed medic on duty, she was doing just fine.

Sakuro kissed his mother's curly, white head of hair before turning towards his daughter's room. Apricotto smiled warmly, even though it was obvious that he too was exhausted, "Go on up and see Daisy. I know you really want to."

"I shall," Sakuro's expression became sincere, "Apricotto so many thanks are in order. Thanks for coming...Thanks for watching over Mother and my dear Chisana. Thanks for not letting Daisy know the truth about all of this. I didn't want her to worry. She has enough going on as is. Thanks for-"

Apricotto waved away the gratitude, "We're brothers, this is nothing! Honestly I'd rather do stuff like this then look over boring treaties and paper work! Blech! Besides it give me a reason to take a miniature vacation. See your daughter and rest, Sak. I'll catch you tomorrow. I'm really glad to have you back Bro."

"I'm glad to be with my family again," Sakuro smiled warmly.

"Don't pull this stupid crap again, right? No more?"

Sakuro laughed weakly, "No more. I promise."

"Good," Apricotto's smile wasn't as brilliant as it usually was, but it was pretty close, "'cause I'm the wildcard in this family. It's my job!"

Sakuro laughed for the first time the entire day with true mirth, "Stars know that's the truth..."

The Mushroom king delivered an amicable clap to his brother's back before dragging himself to a very welcoming and much needed bed. Sakuro quietly peeled the door to his daughter's room open and smiled softly.

The soft glow of light seeping from the sleeping Fireflower lit his daughter's features with a beautiful, soft orange radiance. Daisy slept curled on her side, thick mahogany curls splashed over her pillow like scattered rose petals. She looked so peaceful and relaxed.

She looks just like Rose.

Sakuro took a knee beside her bed and lightly touched her hair, taking in her smooth, relaxed features as she breathed softly. Her peaceful energy must have transferred to him as he felt himself finally giving into the temptation of relaxation.

All day he had been ridden with worry, fear and turbulent anger and yet only a few seconds at his daughter's bedside could cure his ailments. His family had always been the elixir to his problems.

The emperor closed his eyes, resting the side of his cheek against his daughter's sweet scented comforter, thinking that he'd rest his eyes for just a moment.


The following morning I woke up, rubbing sleep from my eyes. Firefly was awake, sucking and slurping at a bottle of plantfood baby formula beside him. I sat up, stretching and cracking several vertebrae in the process. I blinked, realizing something warm was resting on my bed.

Huh? It was Father.

Father slept quietly, head pillowed atop his arms as his torso lay on the bed. When did he get back from his meeting? Father was always up at the crack of dawn.

Wow, he must have been really tired; he went to sleep still wearing his crown and monarch robes. I scooted towards him and softly shook his shoulder, "...Dad? Dad? Padree?"

His eyes opened with a drowsy reluctance and with a blink, Father peered up at me blearily, "...Chisana?"

"Good morning Dad, how are you?" I beamed, smoothing his tussled dark locks, "When did you get back?"

He sat up, appearing semi-sleepy, "Yesterday night. The meeting ran a little longer than I expected. I...must have fallen asleep here. The councilors will be expecting me soon, I need to check on your grandmother, your Uncle, cousin, Mario and Luigi will be expecting—"

"Yet again, Sakuro 'All work and no play' has returned."

Uncle Apricotto was at my door grinning like a blitty in cream. He ambled over smiling far too largely, "Sak, chill out. I've talked to the council and they're not going to expect you to say or do anything until at least three pm."

Father squinted, "What do you mean...?"

"They understand, Bro," Unc smirked, "You had one heck of a night and maybe I convinced them that everyone had a long night and that we all needed our eight hours of sleep. No one's expecting you present until later today. Kick back and relax for a few hours, it's still ten am."

Father emitted a surprisingly human sounding groan, "My back is unspeakably sore and I need a shower..."

"That's what you get for sleeping like that!" Unc laughed, "I checked on you earlier, but you looked so peaceful sleeping on your little girl's bed. Oh by the way, I took a picture 'cause Mom thought it was the cutest thing ever."

Father frowned, "What did you just say?"

"Now up and at 'em," Uncle intentionally ignored him, "Hey, I've got an idea! Let's have a light lunch together! What do you say?"

Father shot a protesting glare at Unc. But Unc must have expected it, "No kings, no Mario brothers, just our fam. I'll have Peachie Pie join us, 'kay? How about we make this for twelve? That's still two more hours of sleep you can get."

"Very well," Father slowly stood up and frowned, holding his aching back, "I'll—"

A loud, thunderous roar rattled the ceilings and made a few layers of plaster fall from the ceiling, "MARIO!? WHA!? WHAT THE FLAMING, FARTING HELL ARE YOU DOING HERE!? YOU KNOW WHAT!? SEEING YOUR FAT FACE JUST PISSED ME OFF. I'M GOING TO GLUE YOUR HEAD TO YOUR ASS PLUM SCUMB!"

Father and Uncle shared an inquisitive look. I sweat dropped, "Uh oh, I uh...get the impression that Bowser and Mario have bumped into each other."

Alabaster suddenly stuck his head into my room with a wicked, crazy grin, "Oh no Emperor! King Bowser and Mario look as if they're going to fight! This is horrible. I certainly hope Mario isn't killed. Whatever should we do?"


Ultrra: XD That Toad is a mess!

Alice: Lol yeah is he. X)

Ultrra: Hey! I saw Nuttsy this chapter! :) I knew someone would ride him eventually and it's even better that Kitsune, the big bosslady did!

Alice: Nuttsy has his quirks but he's still an awesome Chow. X) Also this chapter we 'saw' Grammy. Does anyone know where we 'saw' her ;)

Ultrra: Hmm...

Alice: Why don't you guys leave a review? Thanks for reading another chapter (bows) Seeya in the next and can't to hear what you guys and gals think! ^_^