While I may be busier as the days go by, I'm still plugging away here!
No time to waste on introductions though; we've got a cliffhanger to follow up on! …Then again, when don't we?
Ah, whatever. Set some time aside, and once you're ready, enjoy reading!
...
[Bowser]
While the rest of my troops sat off discussing strategies, and Merle kept his family distracted doing house chores, I took Mini-Kamek and Mario aside to further explore the revelation on the brat pack.
"Junior is absolutely certain of this, right?" I folded my arms together and grinded my teeth. "He's positive that those twerps are planning on going ahead?"
"Yes, sire," assured Mini-Kamek. "He wouldn't have sent me otherwise."
"Damn it."
"If it helps, sire, there is time—"
"Time?!" I growled and barely contained a heavier roar. "To do what, stop them?! That's not possible! Even if we were to directly travel to the next fortress, that still takes too long! The fight would be over before we even get there!"
"M-my apologies, s-sire—"
"Don't you have any more useful information?!"
"Bowser, calm down," soothed Mario. "He's the messenger."
For a moment, I glared down at Mini-Kamek, who shuddered under my gaze. Sighing, I leaned back and watched Kamek and Merlon shuffle over, while Mario patted my arm.
"You don't understand." I dragged my claw over my face. "They're carrying on with my plan, still bent on conquest."
"Right, they're going to the next fortress to try and fight Peach." I lifted my hand as Mario nodded. "You were going to have them battle next, is that it?"
"No! I…I mean, yes, but…" I dragged my claw through my hair. "I, uh, I don't want to…let them, ah, go off like this! I didn't order them to!"
"Sire," cut in Kamek, "it is true that you were not the one to give the order. However, it is always in our interests to do what is necessary, if and when need be. The Koopalings are using their better judgment to secure the territories that we've obtained."
"Well, it's not better judgment!" I folded my arms together and grumbled. "They're not the ones to make those calls. The Koopalings can cause all kinds of mayhem that I'm not even interested in creating!"
"…Boy, isn't that the entire point?" Kamek adjusted his spectacles. "By doing this, the Koopalings are opposing Peach's forces, as planned."
"That's…!" I hesitated and blinked. "Y-yeah, I guess, but…"
"They are some of your highest ranking minions," continued Kamek. "These are the countermeasures they are trained to utilize." He tapped his wand against his hand. "You are the one that specializes in kidnapping. It's practically a birthright to your kingdom by this point."
"One that needs to change."
"What?"
"Forget about that for now," I snapped. "The important thing is that we help Junior. He needs me back home, especially if he's been left all alone."
"Danger does still lurk within your castle walls," ominously added Merlon.
"Great, I needed that reminder like a hole…" I paused and then pounded my fist into my hand. "Merlon! You can see the future, right? Tell me, will Junior be all right?"
"Mm…" His eyes lit up a bit and he remained silent for a moment. They faded and he nodded. "For now."
"Only for now?!" I growled and shook my head. "Whatever, that will have to do. What about the Koopalings? Can they be stopped?"
"As you stated, it is impossible." Merlon held up a hand as I readied to argue, and his eyes flashed again. "They are on a direct collision course with Peach's forces. Odds of a fight are overwhelmingly high. Your chances of preventing it, short of a miracle, are near nonexistent."
"Figures."
"You knew this."
"It would have been nice to have a seer prove me wrong!"
"We don't work like that."
"Yeah, I know that now." I sighed. "But it doesn't matter. I'm leaving either way, and I'm going back home to my son and my castle."
"What good is it if you can't stop them?" Kamek shook his head. "Junior should be fine. I made certain that he would have protection."
"Peach is running out of territories to reclaim," I grumbled. "When she finally has them all back under her control, my castle will be her next target."
"Why though?" Mario scratched his head. "If she rescues the Toads and secures her territories, then what reason would she have to—?"
"You."
"…Oh." He bit his lower lip and picked at his mustache.
"Even if you're not there, she'd still fight to find that out." I rubbed my chin. "She might even just want to wallop me."
"Bowser, please," defended Mario. "Peach wouldn't pick a fight like that."
"Right, just like how she doesn't usually go to save the day herself, huh?"
"Circumstances were drastically flipped," countered Mario. "Luigi couldn't handle it on his own, so she stepped in to help."
"Mario, I love that you can find the good in everyone, but I know that Peach hates me more than anything."
"That's not…completely true—"
"Wow, are you really going to waste your breath?"
"Ok, she does despise you," he relented. "But, you can't blame her, especially after years of attacks and kidnapping."
"Fair point."
"Plus, I think Peach prefers making friends over enemies."
"You'd be surprised."
"Enough to hurt a child?"
"My child." He opens his mouth to contend that point, but I raised a hand and beat him to it. "Regardless of whether she would actually hurt Junior, she won't show mercy to the rest of my troops."
"It would weed out the dissenters," noted Merlon.
"Just because my kingdom is at odds, over my decisions, doesn't mean that I want to kill off every last treasonous member of the Koopa Troop." I shook my head and rubbed my horns. "I'll be the first to admit that I don't have the biggest heart, but I do care about my army as a whole. Seeing it outright destroyed because of my pettiness towards rebellious members of the troops is not an option."
"True, going back could help rally the troops," agreed Kamek, tapping on his wand. "Furthermore, we may have defensive strategies for the castle always in place, but we need to relay specific tactics ourselves. The best way to make sure everything goes smoothly is for all parties to be present."
"Exactly." I sighed and ran a claw through my hair again. "I have to go back."
"If you imagine that it is for the best," murmured Merlon. "Though, the support around here will be sorely missed."
Raising an eyebrow for a moment, I blinked at the Shaman. He rolled his eyes and then used them to gesture toward Mario. Frowning, my body weighed me down and I stared into his deep blue eyes.
"Mario, I'm sorry." I shook my head and lowered it. "I've made this into a mess, but I promise I'll take care of it."
"Don't worry, I'm sure we will."
"…Um. 'We?'"
"Do you honestly believe that you can just leave without me?" He smiled. "You came out all this way, just for my sake. The least I can do is return to your castle and help you there."
"Ah, what?" Merlon tugged on his ivory mustache. "Mario, you do realize that this is a poor time for Bowser to leave, but terrible time for you? We still need to look into that curse and you're right in the middle of magic training."
"It's going to need to wait," decided Mario. "You told me that I should be free from the curse's influence so long as it's outside of my body. And I may not have mastered anything in magical arts yet, but I can at least use some spells."
"Wait, Mario," I protested. "You don't need to come back. If it's important for you to stay—"
"As important as it is for me here," he interrupted, "it's equally important that I return home with you."
'Home with me…' does he think of the castle as home? The stupidest grin settled firmly onto my face at the thought of that.
"May I have a word with you, Mario?" Merlon cleared his throat. "Privately, that is."
He nodded and followed Merlon away from us, out of my still entranced eyesight. Kamek waved his hand in front of me before snapping his fingers. I wildly shook my head, blinked, and focused back on the old Magikoopa. He sighed and adjusted his spectacles.
"Exactly what made you space out?"
"Did you hear him call the castle his home? Wasn't that—?"
"Sire, I believe he meant it as your home." Kamek scratched his head beneath his cap while I blankly blinked at him.
"Oh…well, maybe not. You never know!"
"Perhaps not, but is that really something that should so easily distract you?"
"Sh-shut up!" I snorted and folded my arms. "If Merlon gets him to stay, that's…fine too, I guess."
"Regardless of Mario's decision, you do realize we need to prepare to leave, correct?"
"…Yeah…"
Though Kamek kept rambling, I sighed and stared off into the violet woods, daydreaming about a quieter life with Mario.
[Mario]
Hastily, Merlon guided me back to his home and quickly closed the door behind us. He took a minute to gaze outside, eyes narrowed beneath his hood, though I wasn't quite certain whom it was that he wanted to keep out at the moment.
"Um…Merlon?" He whirled back to me. "Is everything all right?"
"Funny that you should ask," he quipped. "I intended to ask you the very same."
"I'm not the one that's staring outside like we're under attack at the moment."
"My apologies." He shook his head. "I just want it to be the two of us for this discussion, as I would like delve into it further."
"Delve into what now?"
"Your abrupt decision of departure."
"Ah."
"Mario, I simply cannot advise you to leave now," cautioned Merlon. "I implore that you reconsider."
"Weren't you the one that told me that I should be supporting Bowser more?" I lowered my brow as he tugged on his mustache, yanking a bit harder than usual, obviously unnerved. "You told me that I should be with him when he needs me most."
"That's…true, I did, but…" He sighed, clasped his hands to his hood, and shook his head. "This isn't quite what I had in mind."
"So, you feel that I should stay?"
"…No." Merlon exhaled again. "It would be preferable if both of you did stay, but I can understand not wanting to part with your beloved."
"It's not just about staying with Bowser," I explained, in spite of that being a good part of it. "I want to make sure that he and his servants here get back home safely. And then, we need to help restore order to his kingdom."
Merlon tilted his head at me. "You're going to work with him on his rebellious soldiers? That could be quite dangerous, don't you think?"
"Compared to the other times that I've faced them?"
"This time is different, and you know that."
"Maybe, but I need to try," I insisted. "I don't know if Bowser can handle every last one of them on his own, and he needs someone to support him if anything gets too difficult to handle."
"Quid pro quo," murmured Merlon. "He helped you here, and you'll help him there."
"Yes, and yet, that's not all." I adjusted my cap and then fixed my gloves. "I want to learn how to get his army to cooperate, when they seem to have such a clear line dividing them. Doing that will help me understand how I can do the same for both the Mushroom and Koopa Kingdoms." I returned my attention to Merlon and smiled at his bright yellow eyes. "Hopefully, with my help, I can finally get everyone to cooperate with each other, rather than trying to obliterate one another and the world around them."
Quiet for a moment, Merlon twirled his mustache, lost in thoughts. He nodded after a moment. "It's very brave and kind of you to even commit to this idea," he admitted. "Perhaps, will your resolve, and your ties to both kingdoms, you might just be the key to ending this war peacefully."
"Hopefully, that will be the case." Slowly, I exhaled and deflated. "I'm just afraid of going forward from here."
"What still plagues your mind?"
"Just that…well, the Koopa Kingdom knows about us, but…the Mushroom Kingdom doesn't." I shuddered as my heartbeat quickened. "Honestly, I don't think it will go over very well, especially with all I've learned."
"Hmm." Merlon shrugged. "I'm afraid that I cannot help you with this. That future will be yours to decide."
"Right, I gathered. Thank you, though."
"My best advice to you is have faith in others," encouraged Merlon. "You've defended this kingdom for years. Even if you are dating their main adversary, I'm sure the people will have enough respect for you to understand your decisions."
"Um…hopefully?" I scratched the back of my head and attempted to steady my breathing. "It's all I can hope for, I suppose."
"Unfortunately, that much is true." He nodded and stroked his long mustache, closing his eyes a moment before opening them again. "Is there anything else?"
"Um…not that I can immediately think of," I admitted. "Any advice if things go south?"
"Mm…find more of those 1-Up Mushrooms?" Merlon shrugged. "There's a shortage, right?"
"Yes, and we've searched everywhere, honestly," I recalled. "Any advice that isn't reliant on those?"
"Don't fail?"
"…Wow, thanks," I deadpanned. "That's such sage advice from the all knowing, all seeing Shaman."
"Of course," he chuckled. "After all, I can only offer the best for the undefeatable hero of the Mushroom Kingdom, right?"
"You don't make it easier like that."
"Simplicity is an era gone by now." He chuckled again, and then strolled over to a cabinet in the room. "Before you leave, I must give you something."
"Oh?"
"Yes, it's vital that you take at least…where is the blasted…?" Merlon took another minute to rummage around a few shelves and drawers. "I had to give it to the girls just last week, so it should be…ah! Here it is!"
Drawing his hand back out, he grabbed my arm and placed a small blue orb into my hand. I blink and stared at it.
"…A…it's a miniature Crystal Ball?"
"Perhaps a little larger than something so tiny, but yes." He chuckled. "Were you expecting an alternate means of communication with an oracle?"
"When you put it like that, I suppose not."
"If you need anything from me, or more likely, if I need anything from you, we can communicate with that." He pulled out another, look-a-like from beneath his robes. "I will keep this on me at all times, and will update you on anything pertinent."
"Right, I'll do my best to do the same."
"Good, very good." He stroked his mustache and nodded, a slight twinkle in his eyes. "Do proceed with caution, Mario. I suspect you'll need more than your best to handle everything ahead of you, which I'm certain that you're already aware of."
"There are no promises that I can make," I confessed, and scratched behind my head as I pocketed the tiny Crystal Ball. "But…I suppose I'll do whatever it takes."
"And that is all anyone can ask for." He nodded and began to stroll back toward the door. "Oh, but…do take caution around Peach, should you run into her anytime soon."
"Why?" I studied him in silence for a moment as my heart sank. "Does she…know?"
Shutting his eyes, Merlon quietly opened the door and waited for me. Deflating again, heart crushed, I sighed and hesitated. Forcing myself back up, I shook my head and we returned outside.
[Bowser]
My foot rested on top of a blue stone as Kamek tapped his wand against his hand. Sighing, my folded arms sank as he continued going over details for our return trip. For a moment, I glanced back at my troops, chattering amongst one another away from the Shamans. Some would turn their attention to Kamek and I briefly before returning to their side conversations. The confusing part was how they seemed to switch who they were talking with every so often, though I don't know what about.
"Lord Bowser, are you even listening?!"
"Huh?!" I blinked, dropped my arms, and turned to a scowling Kamek. "Uh…"
He pinched the space between his brow and above his glasses. Scratching my chin, I rolled my shoulders a bit, returning my full attention to my old retainer.
"Honestly, sire," he grumbled. "I understand that I'm not quite as interesting as the world around you, but please, for your son's sake, try to focus."
"R-right."
"Now, our return trip shouldn't be much of an issue, as we can take the ship directly back home," explicated Kamek. "However, some of us could take point. Anyone flying might be able to do so, but wings only last so long and they'll easily tire out." He stroked his chin and quietly muttered for a moment. "Yes, perhaps once we're out across the waters, that will be a good time to bring out the Clown Car."
"…The what?"
"Clown Car." Kamek nodded and smiled a bit. "And my trusty broomstick, of course. Provided that we don't hit any inclement weather on our return, we should be—"
"Wait, you brought my Clown Car?" I growled as my fists tightened. "It was with us the entire time?!"
"No, this is the old prototype," corrected Kamek. "It's only good for carrying, not actually utilizing a vast array of weaponry."
"We could have avoided walking the whole way up, though!"
"Right, because everyone would fit in that contraption," deadpanned Kamek. "Oh, and no one would have found it at all suspicious, possibly more so than our xebec."
"Fine, it's a passable argument," I snapped. "But still—!"
"Still, it's an old prototype," repeated Kamek. "I don't know how much the blasted thing has left in it. It could fall apart the second you stomp your way inside of it, boy!"
"If he's calling you that, you two must be disagreeing," voiced Mario. I spun around as he strolled up beside me. He placed a hand on his hip as he glanced between Kamek and I. "What's wrong?"
"Hold on, you first," I insisted. "Does Merlon need you—?"
"Though he'd prefer us to stay here for now," explained Mario. "I convinced him that it was more important that I go with you." He smiled as my mouth spread into a big grin. "Don't look so disappointed," he teased.
"How could I not be?" We laughed and I tugged him closer to me, wrapping my arm around his shoulder. "I couldn't be more elated that I don't need to leave you behind."
Roughly, Kamek cleared his throat. We blinked and returned our attention to him, as he tapped his foot.
"As glad as I am that Mario will remain with us," he interjected, "we do have to make sure these plans are in tact."
"You've already thought most of it out," I protested. "It's not like there's much more we need to go over, unless you think we'll be dealing with anything on the way back." I placed my free hand on my hip. "Barring the weather, that is."
"Exactly what are the plans?"
"Oh, we're just taking the ship back." I shrugged. "And maybe a bit of flying, for any of us that can." I narrowed my eyes on Kamek. "Apparently, someone brought a Clown Car without telling me."
"Wait, why are we flying and sailing back?" Mario tilted his head and pointed to Kamek's wand. "Couldn't you just teleport us back there?"
"If I could teleport multiple people at will, do you think the Mushroom Kingdom would have ever stood a chance?" Kamek shook his head. "Our magic can let us travel from one location to another magically, but that only works once for a week. The more people involved with the travel, the more time it takes to recharge, so three of us would take three weeks, while thirteen of us would take over three months." He sighed and twisted his wand in his palm. "Not that I'd like to think about it, but I'm pretty sure that there could be more important circumstances to use such a spell."
"O-oh. That, um, makes sense."
"Naturally."
Before Kamek could continue on from there, a few footsteps crunched on scattered leaves from behind us. The three of us turned to my troops as they froze in place, most turning to Stammers.
"Goomphen," hissed Koopella. "Seriously?"
"S-so-sorry," whimpered the Goomba to the Snifit. "I-I didn't s-s-see them."
"No matter," sighed Bombkin, the Bob-omb's tail falling to the ground. "Pardon the interruption, your majesty."
"You should probably direct that to Kamek," I chuckled, as the Magikoopa bubbled up with rage. "What do you need? Or, uh, who needs what?"
"We have come to a collective decision," started Glaucus, as the Buzzy Beetle waddled forward. "We have decided that our group should remain here, provided that Kamek accompanies you and Mario back to the castle."
"Of course I'm going," snapped Kamek. "But why are any of you staying here?"
"All of us, actually," corrected Olive. The Blooper fiddled with her tentacles as Kamek gawked at her. "My apologies, Master Kamek. It's just…oh, how do we explain?"
"There's too much going on here for us to uproot and head home," interjected Koopella. "None of us want to part from you, sire, but if we all leave this place, we could miss something upcoming."
"After all," added Ruby, "We haven't a clue what these…mysterious Shamans have planned. The ones here, or in that hamlet, they could have plans of their own designs. Ohoho! …That wouldn't be funny…especially with the one that cursed Mario still around…somewhere…"
"Tactically, it's a insurance," elucidated Tech Guy. "Not only do we keep an eye on the Shamans of Star Hill, but we're also able to keep tabs on the location itself. This is a location that would likely have some type of activity awaken here over other areas of the Mushroom Kingdom." The Shy Guy adjusted his mask and nodded. "Keeping the ten of us here might seem like a bad idea on the first thought, but consider that there are still those loyal to King Bowser back at the castle. Having just ten of us here might not be enough, comparatively. However, by having just us here, few as we are, we're more capable of blending in with Star Hill itself, and able to minimize suspicion that would otherwise be generated from a more conspicuous and daunting group, such as a whole squadron of the army."
"Uh…sure, that sounds good," I mumbled, scratching the side of my head. "Sounds like you guys have it figured out."
"What, that's it?" Nix dropped his shoulders as the Rex's wings drooped. "Not even an attempt at an argument? It took us some debating before settling on this, milord! Wouldn't you even, perhaps, have some of us come with you?"
"Nix, Tech just explained why we're all needed, dear," reminded Jasmine. "We've been over this, and determined that Lord Bowser will be fine in Kamek and Mario's hands."
"B-but…"
"It's not like you're constantly needed around him," noted Bombkin. "His Majesty does fine and well on his own plenty of times."
"Hold on," interrupted Mario. "I actually agree with Nix on this. It could be dangerous to leave your servants here, Bowser. We won't be able to help them with anything they might run across, which could be incredibly dangerous."
"Yes, see?" Nix licked his lips. "Mario is such a darling, pointing that out."
"Um…"
"Aw, come on, Nix," contended Feather Duster. "Everyone may have overruled you and convinced you to stay, but we should all be here, together." The Paratroopa beat his wings, hovering just above the ground, smiling at Nix. "We're especially worried about the one that cursed Mario. He or she is still at large, and we'd be making both his and Bowser's lives miserable if we just left that monster free reign of Star Hill."
"When you put it like that…" Nix groaned and deflated again. "Ooh, fine. But we better not be apart from milord Bowser for so long."
"Wait, what?" Mario shook his head. "You can't just be settled on this idea."
"But we are, Mario," insisted Jasmine. "Bowser needs us like he needs the other soldiers. Master Kamek is above that level." She tapped at her nozzle and nodded. "You've become just as important, if not more so, than him. The only one that Bowser values so highly is none other than Prince Junior, and the reason for your required return."
"Y-you're r-right that it'll b-be scary alone," admitted Stammers. "B-but…we'll be together. And…maybe that'll b-be enough."
"Look, if Goomphen is agreeing to it," concluded Glaucus, "then it's likely our best bet, and a sturdy measure of security."
"Only if Mario agrees to it," I determined. "He's already giving up his training for me, and I don't need him to worry while we're away from this place."
"They have raised a good point," murmured Kamek. "Perhaps, for his peace of mind, Mario should agree to this."
"Hey, his choice. Not yours."
"Ah. My apologies."
"W-well…when everyone puts it like that…" Mario swallowed hard and I rubbed his arm. "…Ok. I guess if this is the best approach. But please, all of you, be careful." He raised his head and glanced back at the Shamans' home. "And, if you need anything at all, I'm certain that at least Merlon is trustworthy. If you can only rely on him, please do so, and have him get in touch with us for any kind of emergency."
"You have our word and our oath, Master Mario," bowed Olive.
"Worry not," assured Glaucus. "We'll be on guard the entire time that we're here."
"They're right," chimed in Feather Duster. "And so is Goomphen! Together, we're stronger!"
"Now you're talking, Cutie Pie."
"Huh? Nix, please—"
"See, Feather Duster has the right idea," I chuckled.
"Sire, please," moaned the Paratroopa. "Niall, sir. It's Niall."
"Oh, that's what it is!" Jasmine glanced around as the others turned to her. "Um. Sorry. I was…I didn't forget, I just…uh…"
"Ehehe! Don't deny it," giggled Ruby, as the Red Boo drifted back and forth. "We all forgot, or chose not to acknowledge it."
"Niall," purred Nix. "So, no more calling you, 'Cutie Pie,' huh?"
"Maybe later," relented Niall. "And Feather Duster whenever you please, sire. But please, I don't want everyone to keep calling me a bunch of other names while we're away." He sighed. "I'll go back home, and everyone really will have forgotten my actual name!"
"Not a problem." Nix smirked. "I happen to love your name. After all, both of our names start with 'N,' so that can only bring about good things."
"Sure, I suppose."
"Perfect…"
"If everyone's decided then," cut in Kamek. "We might as well get going now."
"What, down to the ship?"
"Not anymore," determined Kamek. "If, for any reason, your loyal subjects need to return, they'll need means of transportation for themselves."
Kamek whipped his wand around, swinging it left and right, before rolling it around from the ground and up into the air. A few glittery colors here, a few hex shapes bouncing around there, and in a falling cloud of sparkling dust, my Clown Car appeared before us. Or, the prototype to it, anyway, as unlike my Koopa Clown Car, it's just a blank white tub. Without a face, it feels more…soulless than usual.
"Just how many of these things do you have, anyway?" Mario scratched his head beneath his cap, puzzled. "You have this old one, your current one, Junior's, each of the Koopalings have their own…how many more?"
"Ha…I'll tell you about it later," I teased. "Short answer is more than those."
"It's best if we depart at the highest point of Shooting Star Summit," determined Kamek. He whipped his wand and stepped forward, the Clown Car floating after him. "Come."
"Farewell, King Bowser."
Before I followed Kamek, Mario and I turned to watch my troops bow to me.
"Uh…right. Bye, everyone." I hesitated, and glanced at Mario. Turning back to them, I sighed. "Look, uh, I thank you all for your services so far. Everything you've done…it really means a lot to me." My heart hammered a little harder as they slowly began to look up at me. "I…haven't had nearly enough time to…spend with each of you." Those words replayed in my head, and I sank under their weight. "Regardless, we've worked well so far, and you…you've been my most loyal minions."
"It's always been our pleasure," voiced Tech Guy. "I believe I speak for all of us."
"Yeah, you do," assured Koopella.
"Right." I nodded. "So…I'm counting on you to do your best out here, continue keeping Mario safe, serving your kingdom as always, and…well…watch each other's backs too, got it? You're obviously valuable for your work, and I'm counting on your return." They stared at me, perhaps paused in awe for a moment, before nodding quickly. "Great. Uh…ok then. Good luck."
"Thank you, Lord Bowser."
Pivoting away, I grabbed Mario's hand and stomped away from them. He yelped a bit as we hurried past Merlon's house to catch up with Kamek. As we climbed the hill a bit, he yanked back on his hand.
"Bowser, wait!" I stopped at his command. "You didn't even let me wish them well! What's the…?"
He stopped as he stepped in front of me, his face falling from its annoyed contortion quickly. Staring at his soft blue eyes, I blinked at his sympathetic smile…and blinked again as I brushed hot tears from my eyes.
"W-what…what the…?" Growling, I brushed my eyes, trying to swipe the tears away. "What gives?!"
"A little thing called 'caring,' Bowser," observed Mario. "Is that still foreign to you?"
"It's…I just…" I blinked, letting a tear stride down my cheek. "I don't think I've…ever really had a chance to, uh, t-talk with my troops…not like that." I shook my head, and swept away the rest of my tears. "This is weak and embarrassing."
"No, it's not, Bowser," corrected Mario. "It's heartwarming, and I'm glad to know that you care more about them than even I realized."
"W-well…yeah, I care about my troops…" I coughed and shook my head. "I just…I forget to think…"
"S-Sire! Please wait!"
Groaning, I turned back as Mini-Kamek flew up after us. He crashed into my chest and fell backwards, yelping and hiding behind Mario's leg.
"S-sorry, sire," he whimpered. "B-but…I figured that I should return. It's my duty, even still, to make sure that Prince Junior is safe."
"Yeah, sure." I huffed and glanced at Kamek, who was beckoning us to follow him further up the summit. "Just stick with him, not Mario, got it?"
"O-of course, sire!"
Hastily, Mini-Kamek darted off after Kamek. I chuckled as Mario lowered his eyes at me, planting his hands on his hips.
"Really?"
"Hey, I get jealous easily," I joked. "No one's allowed to be closer around you than me, at least not within my power."
"So possessive," muttered Mario, placing his hand back into mine. I grinned as we continued after Kamek.
However, I heard a skid behind us and stopped again. We turned around as Merle stopped in his tracks, and glanced up at us.
"Just wanted to wish you well," he offered. "Um…didn't quite know what to tell you beyond that. Pardon my intrusion—"
"It's fine," I eased. "Thank you, Merle."
"You're welcome." He nodded and picked at his blonde mustache. "Do well, Bowser. And whatever it takes to keep your family safe."
"Of course." I smiled to him. "You do the same well."
"Always." A crash sounded from back down the trail. "Oh no." Quickly, Merle hurried back down the path, shouting. "Girls! Merlow! Please, just hold on a moment! Don't break anything else, kids! Not the windows; I just replaced the last ones, please not the windows!"
Mario and I exchanged faces of held in laughter before turning back and continuing back up the hill.
Reaching the mountaintop's peak again, Kamek rolled his wand around again, and summoned his broomstick. Mario and I gazed ahead, staring out to the dark ocean before us.
"Do be careful, both of you," whispered Merlon's voice.
Whirling around, I scowled at the old Shaman standing behind us, arms folded and invisible beneath his robes.
"Couldn't you just let us leave in peace?!"
"Am I not?" He chuckled. "What's wrong, King Bowser? I'm certain that you've practiced the idea of stalking and spying on others, have you not? Honestly, not recognizing a tail, even just up the summit for a moment, is shoddy work for you."
"What?! I don't stalk!" I growled, but blinked as Mario stepped in front of me, folding his arms. "I mean…I don't do it…often. Maybe for a kidnapping here, and a little bit too watchful there…" I folded my arms. "Come off it, will you two?!"
"Now what fun would that be?" Merlon chuckled, and I glared at his beady eyes behind the hood. "Seriously, though, I do wish you both the best. And again, Mario, contact me if you're in need of anything."
"How do I do that, exactly?" Mario pulled a small crystal ball out from his overalls and looked it over. "Is there a spell, or do I shake it, or…?"
"Just whisper my name and rub it a little," explained Merlon. "That should do it."
"Covert," I muttered.
"As intended," agreed Merlon. "It is for emergencies, typically. However, if you're feeling lonely, Mario, then you're welcome to use it whenever—"
"Don't even joke like that!" I snarled at Merlon, who only laughed in response.
"Bowser, please." He rubbed my arm and smiled to me. Backing down a bit, only because of him, I nodded. Mario turned to the Shaman and waved. "Thank you, Merlon. For this, and for everything." He sighed as his shoulders dipped. "We'll try to get back here, as soon as possible."
"If it's allowed, of course."
"He's not my prisoner!"
"Actually, I wasn't referring to that," amended Merlon. "If you two resolve all matters that need to be taken care of, that need your immediate attention, then you can return. But do not fret over doing so before then." His eyes fixated on Mario, glowing softly. "Farewell, Mario, Bowser. I do hope that we meet again."
"We'll have to," I grunted. "Over that curse, right? Mario's needed, isn't he?"
"Perhaps."
"Regardless, let's hope that we meet again under better circumstances," Mario finished. "Take care of everyone here, Merlon."
"Such has always been my charge," he murmured. "But yes, I will continue to. Do enjoy your trip with one another." His eyes faded a bit. "Oh, and with the old Magikoopa as well, I suppose."
"Hey, I heard that!"
Merely chuckling, Merlon nodded as we waved to him. Passing over the star carving in the center of the summit, I turned toward Kamek, who had aleady climbed onto his broomstick. Mini-Kamek hovered around him, perhaps waiting to sit behind him.
Scooping up Mario, I jumped up and crashed into my Clown Car. It bounced from the ground and drifted into the air, the propeller below whizzing as I pushed it forward a bit.
"This thing does fly, right, Kamek?"
"Of course it does," snapped Kamek. "Did you think I wouldn't have tested that before we left?"
"You're the one that told me it didn't have a lot left in it!"
"Oh, hush, it's fine for now." He stashed his wand beneath his robes. "Now, enough waiting. We have a castle and a prince to return to."
Nodding, I placed Mario down beside me. Kamek flew forward with his broomstick, and I guided the Clown Car after him.
We soared over the purple mountains below us, flying off toward the waters ahead. I fixated on following Kamek, who abruptly spun about and whipped his wand at us.
"What is it?"
"Ah, just…making sure we stay together!"
He twirled the wand and a spell lit over the Clown Car. I listened as the propeller slowed beneath us.
"…You just told me—"
"Look, I was trying to convince myself too, ok?" He sighed and shook his head. "Just…it'll stay afloat now, for certain. And we'll be able to stick together better, like this."
My eyes lowered as Kamek spun back around and pulled us forward. Mario watched behind us, waving to Merlon as the Shaman sank into the distant view of Shooting Star Summit, and soon, Star Hill.
For a little bit, we watched the mountains disappear, and then gazed down at the dark waters below us. Kamek had forced himself to fly faster, and we glided along not too far behind him. The view whipped below us as our speed picked up, and I turned my attention to the sky as Mario stumbled backward. He held himself up between the end of the Clown Car and my waist, balancing himself again.
"Are you ok?"
"Yeah." He shook his head a bit and turned, glancing at the space around us. He turned and rested his hands on the edge, watching the cloudy, night sky. "There's more room in here than I was expecting."
"Of course. I need room to fit at least one extra passenger." I grinned and wrapped my hands around his waist.
"You mean your prisoner, right?"
"If you want to get technical about it…" I slid my hands away from his body, only to have him pull them back around him. "Guess not."
"Well, you do have others that use these things, so 'passenger' makes more sense," he relented. Mario pivoted to face me and nodded. "At least there's still room for both of us to move around, if only just enough."
"Mm, enough for what, might I ask?" I bounced my eyebrows as he rolled his eyes.
"You're all kinds of disgusting."
"Yeah, all the kinds that you like."
My beam broadened at him while his face flushed, though he maintained his glower. Glancing back, I checked on Kamek and Mini-Kamek, who fixated ahead of us. Turning back to Mario, I bounced my eyebrows again.
"So, come on, Mario. We've got a bit of a ride back home." I tugged him closer into me, and his waist pressed against mine. "I think we should get comfortable, relax a bit." I lowered my face closer to his, breathing gently against his face. "Maybe I just kiss around that mustache a bit, massage your back a little…" I rubbed his back as his eyes lowered, and he softly moaned. "There we go, relax."
"B-Bowser…"
He nearly melted into my arms as he placed his hands against my chest. My eyes lowered as I gazed into his, entranced by his deep blue eyes once again. I brought one hand beneath his chin and gently raised it as I brought my lips near his.
"That's it…nice and easy…"
"Oh, Lord Bowser!" I winced at Kamek's shouting. "This reminds me of so many years ago, just us flying around in the night sky! Especially with a Toady here."
Mario chuckled as I groaned and reluctantly pulled away from him. I turned as Mario walked over to the front of the Clown Car.
"Really, Kamek?" I deadpanned and dropped my head against my hand, leaning against the edge of the craft. "What of?"
"Years ago, remember? When we kidnapped Mario's brother, back when they were still babies?"
Picking my head up, my eyes narrowed as I glared ahead at Kamek. My grip against the edge of the Clown Car tightened.
"N-no, I don't remember that well," I growled.
"Of course, you were still plenty young yourself," laughed Kamek. "Oh, I remember it was ages ago, back when we were still even investigating the different children that your father baited us out after, trying to find the ones that were important." He laughed again as I grinded my teeth. "How humorous, isn't it, that Mario did grow up to become such a large and important part of your life? And yet it was his brother that was always the easier of the two to snatch."
"Yeah…funny…"
Glancing down, I caught a glimpse of Mario tapping on the Clown Car's rim, staring off into the sky around us. My heart hammered while his fingers drummed lightly against the ship. Returning my glower to Kamek, my grip tightened again, my nails digging further into the rim.
"Ah, you know what, boy?" Kamek chuckled as Mini-Kamek hovered around him. "This also reminds me of so many adventures, where we traveled off to kidnap Princess Peach herself!"
"Really, Kamek?"
"Yes, quite!" He laughed, still staring ahead. "So many times, we'd fly out, off to Peach's Castle to kidnap the princess herself! Granted, it wasn't always dark out when we departed, but oh, the memories this brings back. I even remember you and I teaching Junior the route to Peach's Castle via the sky!"
"Right, yeah."
My hands shook as my eyes opened a little wider, though my glare fixated on the old fool that continued to spoil my moment. Mini-Kamek happened to turn back and panicked, whirling back around at Kamek. He poked at the Magikoopa as I growled.
"Oh, and I do recall her helpless screams into the night, too!" Kamek laughed as Mini-Kamek poked harder. "She would cry out and call for help, with no one around to immediately rescue her! Oh, how we dreamt that we could seize her right to the kingdom then and there! Were it so simple, eh, Bowser?"
"Sure."
"Let's not forget the time—oh, what is it, mini-me?"
"Uh, um, sir, I, ah, think that, uh, you should, um…"
"What?" Finally, Kamek turned his head around, staring as I growled at him. "…Oh. Right, of course." He nervously chuckled and pulled his broomstick ahead, with Mini-Kamek tightly gripping to his back. "Pardon my interruption, Lord Bowser!"
"Yeah."
Still shaking with rage, I heaved out and tried to relax my racing heart. Returning my attention to Mario, who still stared out at the sky, I sighed and sank into the Clown Car.
"Nice night, huh?"
"It is night, right?"
"Um…isn't it?"
"Bowser, I asked you first."
"Right, well, I…" Nervously, I laughed. "Well, the sky is dark, so night it is!"
"Yes, I suppose."
He slightly turned back to me, eyes lowered. Against the dark shy, he was a lot more intimidating like that than I'd ever seen him, at least in this moment. Shivering, I sank further into the Clown Car.
Why isn't this damn thing even bigger?
"S-so…thanks again for coming!"
"Of course." He slightly smiled to me, and I my heartbeat slowed down a bit. "You didn't expect me to leave you alone again, did you?"
"No, no, of course not!" I forced out another awkward laugh, and then clamped my claw over my mouth. Releasing it slightly, I hesitated before continuing. "It's just…I wasn't sure if it was better for you."
"Better?"
"Well, between coming with me and staying to practice training." I clawed my hand through my hair, as if the wind wasn't blowing it around enough. "We did decide on it being important before, when that choice originally came up, so I wasn't sure…I mean, if you wanted to—"
"I wanted to come with you."
Mario turned directly to me and gazed into my eyes. My face burned up a bit and I lowered my head, avoiding his stare for a bit as I nodded.
"Oh." I paused and quickly added, "W-well, thank you!"
"Is there something wrong, Bowser?" I raised my shoulders at Mario's question. "Besides Kamek's awful timing and choice of memories?"
"Nope, that takes the brunt of it."
"Then look me in the eyes and tell me that again."
With a heavy sigh, I picked my head back up and met Mario's blue eyes. Part of me wanted to turn away again, but there's a calmness in them that relaxes me. His eyes are the hardest to turn away from.
"Bowser?"
"It's…I…" Shuddering, I swallowed hard. "I'm just upset about the spoiled moment."
"And that's all that's on your mind?" He folded his arms and frowned. "We have a whole trip home together, and there's nothing that you want to go over before we get there?"
"…Well…"
"Please. Talk to me."
"Look, I'm worried about having taken you away from something more important." He opened his mouth to repeat his argument, but I covered it. "No, wait. It's just…I know that what you were learning is more important. You can try to put me at ease all you like, but…I'm selfish for having you come back." I sighed and shook my head. "It's like before, with the hamlet's Shamans, how every time I help anyone else, it blows up in my face." Weakly, I chuckled. "I can't even help you without ruining that, and now you're more concerned about helping me, and I don't understand why."
Waiting a moment, something soft and wet started to rub against my palm. Pulling my claw away from Mario, he slipped his tongue back between his lips. For a moment, I stared before I burst out laughing.
"Now who's the disgusting one?"
"Still you," he teased, "because I bet you liked that."
"Ha…you're right."
"Glad that you recognized that, because I'm about to be right on a few things, and you're going to listen to them." My mouth dropped open as he grabbed my hands, lacing his into them. "You haven't screwed anything up, particularly not with me. We made it to Star Hill on your ship, with your crew. No one managed to really damage us thanks to your efforts, and especially thanks to your protectiveness, at least with me. I've learned even just a little bit of magic because you persuaded me into it; I might not have been able to if it weren't for you." He rubbed his thumbs around my palms and smiled to me, though I couldn't return it. "Bowser, I could go on, but do I really need to? You've helped me so much, and I just wish you could see that, see what I see before me."
"A monster and greedy king?"
"No, my boyfriend and…my hero."
My heart throbbed at him calling me that. A first, from him, and the first I've been called that in a long time. My mouth dropped as his smile brightened.
"Truly, I don't think that I could have faced everything so far on my own," he continued, rocking our hands around. "Usually, I can muster the bravery or sheer will to force myself into adventures that go beyond me, but recently, what helps me go forward so often is you."
"…T-that can't be right."
"Of course it is, Bowser!" He became more desperate to have me understand, pretty much pleading by now. "Why don't you want to accept that?"
"Because I can't." My shoulders slumped as my body deflated. "Mario, I'm not good enough for you. I'm not enough…I can't be all you want."
"Back to you not being my 'end goal,' right?" I perked up at that. He remembered? "Before, back at your castle, you dropped that line on me. Why?"
"It's the truth," I protested. "You can't just want me. I've…I've been a terror to you."
"In the past, sure—"
"And that's all it takes!"
"You're over thinking it."
"Am I?"
"Yes," he snapped. "You are."
"Oh really? How?"
"What am I worth?"
Jerking my head back, I studied his face. His eyes are still locked on me, and his face is just a little contorted, analyzing me too. He's not happy with what we're talking about, but this question…?
"Mario, what do you mean?"
"Think about it. What am I worth?"
"A lot." He waited when I didn't continue, so I'm forced to elaborate. "Look, you're the hero of the Mushroom Kingdom, Peach's most trusted ally, a confident older brother, and—"
"All of that has been blown away." He shook his head and I raised an eyebrow. "Right now, I'm not the hero. Sure, I'm trying to be ready to help everyone, but I haven't been the hero for the kingdom. Peach is saving her own citizens with my friends. I'm spending all of my time with you."
"Ok, sorry—"
"Let me correct that: I'm choosing to spend my time with you."
"Not really," I argued. "You had to, in order to be rid of the curse and because I kept you at my castle, and…it's because of me."
"Don't you think I'd try harder to escape again, if I didn't want to?" He forced a smile as he placed my hands around his waist. "Wasn't that the point of before, when you tried to win me back over?"
"…Yes…fine, so you're not the hero, or not right now," I relented. "But—"
"Peach knows." My eyebrow went up again. "Merlon informed me that she knows about us."
"She does?!"
"Yep. Guess what? I'm probably not her most trusted anymore." My heart sank hearing that. "She might not even trust my brother because of that."
"B-but…she can't just…hate you."
"Why not?" He brought his hands up to my face, and stroked my cheeks. "I'm in love with her greatest enemy. That's a strong level of betrayal, isn't it? Would you be friends with someone that could hurt you like that?"
"N-no, but…you two…Mario, I didn't—"
"Don't try to apologize." He kept smiling at me. "I chose this." He rubbed his hands over my snout, gently massaging me. "While I don't know how it'll end, I would like for us all to be friends. But right now, Peach probably hates me. And losing her favor will definitely lose the kingdom's favor."
"They love you."
"They love their hero, who we just established is currently not theirs."
"…T-there's still—"
"My brother?" He forced a bitter laugh. "We argued before you took me back, and he was repulsed by my choices." Tears lined my eyes and burned as they settled. "He may still love me as a brother, but he didn't like the road that I had taken. And I wasn't able to really get that through to him, I don't think." His voice broke a little as he continued. "I can't be a confident older brother when I don't have my twin's support behind me."
"Have I…ruined you?"
"Not at all, Bowser. These were my decisions." He cleared his throat and still smiled to me. "But they have left me with nothing. So, I ask you again: what am I worth?"
"Just because…look, things might not be great now, but—"
"Answer me."
My heart practically crashed against my stomach as it throbbed; what more could I tell him?
"Bowser, I have nothing to offer. Unlike you, a king, even one that isn't recognized by the greater kingdom, still has a lot to offer to others. You're still the leader of many, and you still hold your family and advisors close." He shrugged. "I don't have any of that. There's no fortune behind me, nothing special remaining." Mario sighed. "The answer is that I'm worth nothing."
"That's not true!"
"It is."
"No, it's not!" I growled and brought my hands to his shoulders, shaking him. "You're my boyfriend! That's worth plenty to me! I don't give a damn about who hates you, or how hard the world around us crashes! You…you're everything to me."
Those last words stayed with me, for a moment. I've stopped shaking him, resorting to just tightly gripping him. Mario looked at me, worried, but I needed him to understand.
"I don't care what they want or feel, because they don't see what I do. You break yourself ten times over again and again trying to help this whole kingdom. In spite of loving me, you'd put that aside to save even just one Toad. A curse infected you, and you'd rather spend time helping me deal with insubordination and even risk death just to keep me alive!" Tears streamed down from my eyes and across my cheeks, but I kept going. "Every time I want to crush people with an iron fist, you show me that there's another way. The reason that you practiced magic, something you viewed as dangerous, was to protect the entire Mushroom Kingdom! And you're so selfless that you're giving that up, all so you can help me protect my son."
A tear fell from his face, and then another. I don't understand why he still smiled, but it was harder to maintain. I couldn't even hope to bring about one for myself.
"Don't ever think you're worth nothing, Mario," I urged, softer this time. "I don't give a damn what this kingdom wants from you. Blood, maybe? They don't deserve it, if they can't see just how much you tear yourself apart for them." My smile came easy with that. "You're worth more than anyone deserves, myself included. Mario, you're everything."
"Even when I have nothing?"
"You can have less than nothing, and I'll still love you more than anything."
"That's a powerful 'end goal,' huh?"
…What?
"Really, your end goal is someone whose worth could truly net no value, and yet, you place him—me—on a pedestal."
"Did…did you just—?"
"Go through all of that to make a point?" He grinned. "Yes."
"…You crafty, little—"
"Call me what you like, but you get it, because you understand me now."
Still puzzled, I remained still as he brought my face closer to his. He combed his hand through my hair and continued to massage my face.
"Sure, you're a king, right now. As it stands you mean a lot, and you're powerful." He rubbed beneath my chin. "But that's not what I'm with you for. I wasn't immediately certain, but I've learned. You've done so much for your kingdom, your people, your family, and for me." His hands returned to my cheeks and rested there. "I have been in this kingdom for a long time now. But all I want from it has boiled down to you. Everything I've given, you try to give back to me. Every time I crumble, you bring me back together. When I'm at my weakest, you push me to be strong." I quivered against him, and gazed deeply into him. "Bowser, all I ever wanted was someone like you. And I don't even know if that exists, because you became that someone for me."
My heart pounded against my chest as my hands slipped around his back and waist. Gently, my tail swayed as it tapped against my legs, helping me realize that this was real, that he was actually telling me this.
"You're my goal, Bowser. Not because you're a king, but because you're who I love." His beam brightened still, and I grinned with him. "We've sacrificed a lot for one another so far, and we're not done yet. But I don't feel weaker with you. I feel stronger now than I have felt in a while, possibly ever. And I want you, need you, to understand that, because you already proved that you know that about me."
"Mario, I love you."
"And I love you, Bowser."
That's all I needed to hear. Bringing my hand behind his head, as he guided my face forward, we kissed. I rubbed around his back and ran my fingers though his soft hair, as he pressed his lips tighter against mine. His hands ran over my cheeks as we tilted our heads to deepen the kiss. My tongue pressed through his lips, sliding against his mustache going forward. He ran his over mine, tapping gently as his tongue brushed along my mouth. We moved around, trying to make it tighter, and I pulled him as close to me as I could.
For a minute, we parted to breathe, if just barely. Quickly, we closed the space, and kissed again. Breathless, maybe, but I didn't care. My lips were locked against his. Taking one hand, I guided his down against my side, and shivered. My tongue brushed against his lips again as I steadied his hand along my waist. Softly, I brushed my tail against it, pushing it into his hand as he pushed his tongue into my mouth again. My other hand rubbed up and down his back, doing what I could to bring him impossibly closer to me.
Again, we broke apart, and panted as we caught our breaths. Wind whipped against us as I pulled my head back. Smiling, I gazed into his beautiful blue eyes again, and he smiled right back to me.
This flight back will be over far too soon for us.
[Meanwhile]
Bowser's ten minions made their way along the edge of Star Hill's paths, over to the xebec. As they approached, Goomphen tripped and crashed onto his face. Everyone stopped and turned back to the fallen Goomba.
"Ouch…"
"Hang on." Koopella walked back and brought the Spiked Goomba back to his feet. "You ok, Goomphen?"
"S-sort of…"
"Relax," eased the Koopatrol. "We'll be fine."
"B-but…w-what about…Lord B-Bowser?"
"Odds are favorable that Lord Bowser will return home safely with Mario," surmised Tech Guy. "The weather doesn't seem to have taken any negative turns, and they have little opposition on the route home."
"Wonder what they'll talk about on the way back," mused Niall.
"Ha…I have an idea of what they could go over," purred Nix. "In fact, I hope they do more than just talking."
"Weren't you moping about not going with them before?" Jasmine placed her hands on her hips and tilted her head at him. "I'm glad you've gotten over it so easily."
"Don't remind me."
"Ehehe…it could be much worse, Nix," giggled Ruby. "Oho, so much worse!"
"Gracious, Ruby," chided Olive, "must you set such a precedence for dealing with Boos?"
"Ohoho…I'm just telling the truth." The Boo floated around the Blooper. "Wouldn't it be far worse if we—"
An explosion rang out into the air. The ten whirled around and watched as another burst rang out, and blasted over the xebec. Eyes widened, they watched as flames engulfed the ship, surging as more fire blew up around it.
"Just so we're clear," interrupted Bombkin, "no, I didn't bring any stowaways with me."
"Who could have—?"
"There!"
Scanning the cliffs around them, Bowser's minions locked onto a stone pillar not far from ship. A statue-like figure in black robes watched as the boat burned, with only the ends of the clothes waving in the wind.
"Everyone, prepare yourselves," ordered Bombkin. "We're not going to let that lout make a Bob-omb Festival out of us!"
"Your festivities are awfully—"
"Glaucus, don't."
Niall and Nix soared into the air, but halted at a distant crash of thunder. The figure turned to the ten, but they couldn't make out any kind of a face, not even eyes.
An arm lifted up as lightning struck down, crashing against the airborne pair. Both dropped to the ground, twitching from the electricity.
"Monster!"
Tech Guy and Koopella grabbed spears from the pack, and quickly vaulted them through the air.
A massive orb of water blasted up from the ground, snatching the spears. The center froze them in place, and created a barrier of ice to lock them in, before plunging back to the waters below.
"W…what?!"
Abruptly, the earth beneath the group rumbled, knocking them around.
"Earthquake! Brace yourselves!"
They waited as the ground continued to shake, but nothing happened. After a moment, it slowed to a stop.
"Wh-what's g-going on?"
As everyone turned back to the figure on the stone pillar, they hesitated on their next attack.
Suddenly, another figure in dark robes appeared before the group, and lashed out at them, shooting Ruby down with a couple of fireballs.
"How the—?!"
It zipped forward and punched hard into Koopella, denting the Koopatrol's armor in. She gasped and fell over as the figure pulled back.
"Enough of this!" Bombkin lit his fuse. "You want to have a real blast?"
Again, the figure lifted an arm, but nothing appeared visible from its sleeve. From the hole, a gust of wind, with bits of snow, glided out, and quickly extinguished Bombkin's fuse.
"Huh…?"
Scooping its hand up, a column of ice hoisted around Bombkin, freezing him just above the ground.
"That's more than enough."
Spiraling around in his shell, Glaucus launched forward. The figure pulled its arm back, but was hit by a small bullet.
Glaucus's shell slammed square into the figure's body as it stumbled back. Jasmine fired another bullet from his muzzle, hitting the figure again. Goomphen charged forward, and threw his head at the figure.
Colliding, Goomphen bounced off of the figure, which vanished just before it hit the ground. The Goomba gasped and crashed to the ground himself.
They turned again to find the same figure still standing atop the pillar. Olive fired a ball of ink at it, only to watch it vanish before her attack landed.
"What just…happened…?"
"Looks like we just met our enemy," announced Glaucus. "We have our work cut out for us."
He turned and shook his head to his allies, who deflated. Shaking it off, Olive floated over to help Koopella up while Goomphen poked at Ruby. Jasmine adjusted her nozzle and spat fireballs to thaw out Bombkin. Tech Guy checked on Niall, then Nix, and dug around his pack to find something to help them.
Staring at their burning ship, Glaucus watched the embers dance, and then turned to the vacant pillar. He shook his head before waddling over to help his allies.
It would be a very long night.
...
Well, it almost ended with a cute and happy conclusion, but what would romance be without drama?
Happier? Eh, nobody likes happy, simple romance.
So, Bowser knows about the Koopalings' plot and pretty much can't stop them. Bummer. He can, however, hurry back home to protect Junior and quell his fractured army. Right? Well, if not, Mario's going to be there to help him out!
While I realized that this would force Mario's magic training to end for the time being, I figured that it wouldn't be a very fun story to slowly watch Mario develop his skills under Merlon's tutelage while everyone else goes to war. Though, that was a better story for Merlon himself to enjoy. His precious pupil shouldn't be gallivanting off to fight, not yet. Ah…poor Shaman. But, he did leave Mario helpful advice and means to communicate with him again, so that's a plus. (And probably necessary, considering the ending, whoops!)
Meanwhile, it was nice to give Bowser a bonding moment for his troops. I think it's been glimpsed at in previous chapters, that Bowser does care for his troops without showing it much, but it's not something that we've seen him spend time over. He actually had to leave some of his most loyal soldiers behind, in a mostly unexplored location, with only their word to guarantee their survival and protection of Mario from afar. That's…hefty, even for Bowser to handle. Hence, tears.
Speaking of, yay, lots of crying in this chapter! Specifically, from Bowser himself! Maybe I have a sick desire to watch him cry, I dunno. But it was very emotional for him, arguing Mario's worth upon continuing their discussions from prior chapters. Though Mario made those points to prove how much Bowser means to him, he also got his feelings returned tenfold from the king, as they both realized just how much they appreciate one another's efforts. Because, now that we stop and hear them talk it out, they've given up a whole lot for each other, huh? Ah, love. Sacrifice. So synonymous, no? …No? …Oh. Oops.
Oh well, at least they had really deep kisses and mushy moments, no thanks to Kamek! I couldn't resist having the old Magikoopa spoil the mood by accidentally recalling Bowser's wicked deeds in the past. Oh, Kamek; your timing is terrible. But, hilarious. And, it worked out, since it got Bowsario to pause, really think about what matters, go over that with each other, and then totally make out. So, maybe Kamek is the true mastermind of the relationship?! …Yeah, no. It just worked out.
But, while Bowsario enjoys the trip home, things did take a turn for the worst, as Bowser's Loyalists were forced to face off with an unknown enemy. Is this a Shaman as well? And could it be the same one that cursed Mario? It'll be up to those grunts to learn more going forward, but the real question is, can they handle it? Perhaps we'll see, or perhaps it's a long way off.
This whole chapter kind of felt like an endgame one, but there's still more to come!
In fact, for next time, we're bouncing back over to…oh! Peach's army traveling to the Mountains to deal with their tumultuous emotions on top of fighting off the assault from the Koopalings. Yay, conflict!
Until then, that's it for now. Feedback is what keeps me going, so please, send me a review or message! Comments, questions, and criticisms are welcomed. It all helps me with building up the next chapter, so it's always great to hear from lots of readers! If you can, it really is great. Plus, it bumps up the story's overall recognition, which is always good. More readers, more love.
Anyway, that's all for now. Thank you again for reading!