The Tinker Tub was steadfast approaching the desert shore of its destination. Shantae leaned over the ship, gazing at the wondrous sight, the likes of which she had never seen before. The landscape was covered with sand dunes as far as the eye could see, shades of red glittering on the peaks.

"So pretty!" Shantae said in her highest pitch, "is it real?"

Rottytops hugged her from behind, peering over her shoulder, "Almost as pretty as Snack Cakes!"

Risky, standing at the bow, replied, "It's certainly real; Welcome to Burning Land."

Bolo walked over behind them, "Wow, that's something you don't see everyday.

"Finally," Sky yawned as she climbed the stairs to the deck, Wrench resting on her Hatcher glove, "real toilets, real baths, civilization!"

A grand desert beach side waited for them. Even though it was still early evening, the stars were visible above, twinkling in harmony. The air was dry and hot, but the breeze was fresh and clean. It all seemed so barren, yet serene.

"Why are the stars twinkling up there at this hour?" Shantae looked to Risky Boots, who leaned against the hull with her sword over her shoulder.

The Pirate Queen sighed. "The stars of Burning Land always Twinkle. It has something to do with the Light Magic here. You'll have to ask the guests waiting for us over there."

"Huh…" Shantae squinted, focusing on the shore, where she saw several strangers, dressed in white robes, watching them as they neared the coast.

"What could they want?" Sky pondered, rubbing her chin. "Maybe I should fly over with Wrench, just to be safe."

Risky Boots laughed, "A plan for a landlubber. I have a better idea."

Dark Magic formed a whirlwind around Risky Boots, and black ink rose from the sea, trailing up the hull of the ship and onto the deck. Tinkerbats were conjured from the puddles, armed with swords and muskets.

"Risky!" Shantae yelled. "We don't want them to think we're a bunch of meanies!"

Bolo focused on the figures at the shore, "I don't see any weapons on them."

A Tinkerbat transformed into a Cacklebat, then flew over the ship, circling around the crow's nest.

Risky regrouped with the Scuttle Town Heroes, "Haven't you guys learned anything on this little trip?" the Tinkerbats surrounded her, as she paced around them. "You can never be too careful. It's been years since I've been to this place. For all we know, those men could be ready to rob us, or take us captive." she chuckled with a grin. "They'll never try anything when the Queen of the Seven Seas comes to play!"

Sky crossed her arms, "Aren't these guys supposed to be the one's that can help Shantae get her powers back?"

Risky stopped, the shoreline drawing ever closer, "Maybe. Burning Land was almost empty when I first sailed here. I've heard that things have changed since then. You can never be too careful." Risky looked at Shantae, and smiled. "Either way, we'll get what we came for."

"Let's see what they want." Shantae suggested. "If we can make some friends here, it could really help."

Rottytops shook her shoulders, "Friends are always fun!"

Soon. the Tinker Tub arrived on shore. When the ship was stationed, the mysterious men in white robes waved their hands. There were thirteen of them, with the stranger at the front wearing a slightly different demeanor from the rest.

"Greetings!" said the man in a welcoming tone. "You must be Risky Boots!"

The Pirate Queen looked down at him in confusion, "You welcome the nefarious Queen of the Seven Seas?" A Cacklebat hovered above her head, showing its fangs.

The man laughed lightly, "You must understand, Burning Land welcomes people of the Shadow." He stepped forward, holding his hand out. "I am no stranger to the Tinkerbats, as I once fought against the Pirate Master in the war; but, let's be civil. There's nothing for you to steal here, so we might as well talk, yes?"

Shantae grinned, and glanced at Risky, "See, they can help us! Let's go talk to them."

Risky sighed, snapping her fingers, transforming her only cacklebat into a tinkerbat, "Alright, but don't stop flexing the muscle, runt. They might get the wrong idea."

The Scuttle Town Heroes jumped from the Tinker Tub, leaving the tinkerbats behind to defend the deck. They met with the strangers at a close distance, Shantae taking the lead.

"Greetings from Sequin Land!" Shantae giggled, placing her hands behind her back. "I'm Shantae, guardian of Scuttle Town!" Shantae pointed at her best friend. "This here is Sky, the Hatcher."

"What's flyin'?" Sky waved, petting Wrench as he crawled up her arm.

"This is Bolo!" Shantae continued. "He's, um…"

"Professionally unemployed." He replied.

"...and this is -"

"You brought a Zombie here, to Burning Land?" The man interrupted.

"Rottytops is the name, fun's my game!" Rotty smiled, holding two fingers high.

As Shantae turned back awkwardly, she took a moment to observe the man's face. A good covered most of his features, but she could see that he looked quite young for his speech patterns. He had a light amount of facial hair, his skin was indicative of a desert dweller, and his eyes were pale blue.

"Never seen a dry dweller before?" asked the man.

"Listen, bilge rat," Risky Boots stepped in front of the group, aiming her scimitar at the men, "I don't like your tone. Tell us who you are or else."

"Risky!" Shantae shouted.

"Please," the man in front of the group removed the hood covering his face, the tips of his curly brown hair twirling in the gentle wind, "the lady Pirate Queen is right. We have nothing to hide. You may call me Emir." He held out his hand. "Let's retry the greeting; after all, we aim to ask for your help."

Risky lowered her sword, and the Scuttle Town Heroes came forward and shook hands with each of the strangers. All hostility dropped as they became acquainted.

"So Emir, where are you from?" Sky asked.

"I am the mayor of Rubble Town." He replied. "These men are my guards. You must understand why I cannot travel alone?"

"The mayor!" Shantae grinned.

"That's great!" Bolo said, clapping his hands. "We were wondering where the nearest town would be."

"When I was here, there were no living cities…" Risky Boots said, showing doubt..

Emir shook his head and replied, "Yes, you are right. I wish I could say things were well for us here."

"What's wrong?" Shantae asked, smirking with a raised brow. "Is there trouble in Burning Land."

Rottytops yelled, "I smell adventure!"

"It's good to see you are in good spirits, we could use that." Emir nodded. "You see, we have been a safe harbor for the Shadow for a short time now There are still survivors from the Pirate Wars. But the Light Magic in Burning Land has brought the Shadow tribe to near extinction."

Risky Boots expressed dismay, "The Shadow is here? They've been here, And I never knew about it?"

"We take careful precautions to hide our presence from

outsiders." Emir revealed.

Risky Boots was not convinced, "Then why did you let us dock here?" She crossed her arms. "That sure puts a hole in your reasoning."

"Please," he replied, " you are different. We have heard of your victory at Twinkle Palace. Is it not true that the Pirate Queen offered the final blow that slew the ancient gods, and saved Sequin Land from the tyranny of the Old Light?"

"Yeah!" Shantae giggled with her arms squeezed together, "I was so cool, I helped!"

Risky scowled, "Fine, but what do you need us for?"

Emir explained, "It is the Bandit King."

"Bandit King?" Sky uttered.

Bolo added, "Sounds scary. Actually, sounds like something to stay away from."

Risky turned around, sheathing her sword, "Yes I've heard of him," she held out her open palm, "I heard that he was the Sultana's brother, looking for revenge."

"Her Brother!" The Scuttle Town Heroes said collectively, their jaws dropping.

"Indeed,"Emir said. "it is a possibility, but he has never shown his face to anyone. He's more trouble than we can handle. He's been gaining forces in the Eastlands, building a fortress city there. With the Shadow tribe growing weaker, he gives them promises of glory, makes them believe they can reclaim Sequin Land someday."

"Not again!" Sky said, placing her hand on her forehead. "Risky, are you sure you don't know about this?"

Emir continued, "I know it seems like Hallow's dream," Risky pulled her musket from its holster, aiming at his head, his guards placing their hands on their swords, "but it may be a mere coincidence." he looked into the barrel of the gun. "He was greatly admired in these lands, and I believe he may be inspired by his work."

"Risky!" Shantae yelled, stomping her foot.

The Pirate Queen holstered the musket, easing the tension in the air, "Your guards need some work."

Shantae intervened, "We're sorry, she doesn't mean it. So, how can we help, mayor?"

Emir looked to his side where the shoreline stretched endlessly, "Well, if I'm correct your his child, yes?"

"You mean Black Hallow?" she asked.

"Yes."

"Uh huh." Shantae nodded. "Half-Genie Hero extraordinaire!"

"Well, there are no Genies in Burning Land." he continued. "And I fear that the Bandit King has exacted a new plan, one that could end us all. I believe he is looking for the three Magical Seals. If he does so, he will unlock the power inside of a special oil lamp, one we call the Starlight Lamp."

"Magical Seals?" Sky said, adjusting her sarong at the waist. "Isn't that the same thing that Risky used to steal your Genie powers?"

"Pretty sure it is." Bolo answered.

"These are not the Magical Seals you know," the mayor continued. "they are special. They are the Seals of Dawn, Dusk, and Twilight. With the lamp at his disposal, the Bandit King will summon the power of Starlight. It will be the end of peace in Burning Land."

"You want us to stop him?" Shantae asked.

"The Bandit King has taken all of the Shadow tribe from Rubble Town." his brows furrowed. "We have no way to defend ourselves now. If you would help us, perhaps we can do the same for you."

Shantae jumped, "Of course! We could use your help, too. I need to get my Genie powers back. Risky thinks there's a way to do it here. You wouldn't know about it would you?"

Emir smiled, "Well, as a matter of fact, I do."

"Oh Yeah!" Shantae said with spunk, pumping her fist.

Sky joined, "Well go ahead, tell us!"

"Please, it is too hot out here," he rubbed the sweat from his head, "you simply don't have the attire for the weather. Follow us back to Rubble Town, and we can discuss it there. Perhaps we can find a way to turn your Zombie friend to a human again as well."

"Human!" Rottytops screamed.

"What!" Sky blurted, "How much stuff can you guys do out here?"

"That was unexpected." said Bolo.

"That's great news!" Shantae faced Rotty, "How does that sound Rottytops?"

Rottytops was stunned for a moment, until she jumped with her hands held high, then swung her hips in celebration, "Woo Hoo. I get to see my friend again!"

"Hold on." Risky Boots said, moving toward Shantae.

Shantae looked at the Pirate Queen as she stopped in front of her.

"These guys are hiding something. Do what you need to, runt, but I won't be coming with you." she smiled.

""Risky…" Shantae crossed her arms behind her. "we could use your help."

"Sorry kid," she placed a hand on Shantae's shoulder, "you know there are other things to do."

Shantae frowned, "You mean the Shadow's curse?"

Risky nodded, "I have some ideas of where to look for a cure. While I'm gone, don't trust everyone here, kid. But, if you can get help, take it. Before I go, I have a gift."

"What is it?" Shantae inquired.

"Step back." Risky pushed her away, pulling her scimitar from her hip.

"Shantae!" Sky yelled with concern.

Shantae mediated, "It's okay, Sky." she straightened her posture, and grinned at Risky. "Go ahead."

The Pirate Queen slashed her blade at Shantae in a lemniscate. She closed her eyes, feeling a burning sensation on her chest. She looked down, and saw a cross shaped pattern on her collarbone. It glowed with a Dark Magical aura, eventually settling into a small scar.

"Cool!" Shantae poked the mark.

"My curse," she said, sheathing her blade, "it'll improve your Dark Magic. But what it does best is tell me when you're in danger. There are benefits to being the new Pirate Master. If you call my name, I'll hear it."

"Oh, Risky!" Shantae smiled. "Thanks."

"Shantae, you just got cursed!" Sky pointed out. "Am I the only sane person here?"

"Don't be a stranger, runt." Risky turned her back. "Take care of yourself."

A wave of Dark Magic appeared around the Pirate Queen, and her hair turned black.

Shantae waved, "Bye, Risky! See you soon!"

The Pirate Queen smiled as her body faded into darkness, until it was nothing but a Dark Magical fog. The darkness flew into the air, soaring over the sand dunes, falling out of sight.

"Good riddance!" Sky said. "Can we please, find a shower now?"

Emir laughed, placing his hood back over his head, "Yes, of course. Follow us back to Rubble Town. It isn't far from here."

They trekked through the dry valley, and began their journey into the heart of Burning Land.

—-

three weeks ago...

At the grounds of Sequin Land Palace, a party was hosted by her Majesty. It was a celebration for the return of the Genies in Sequin Land. Half-Genies from all over the Empire filled the grounds, happiness spreading as they reunited with their mothers.

"Melody!" said a Genie sitting at table, frowning as she looked at her daughter drinking tea. "You've grown so much!"

"It's good to see you, momma!" the Half-Genie replied, sipping her tea.

"Oh, you called me momma!" the Genie leaned forward, slamming her hands on the table. "Ask me to wish you into a baby again. I want to hold your little cheeks, and feed you, and kiss you." She imitated cradling an infant, giving pretend kisses.

"It's okay, mom. I'm still your baby." the guardian daughter replied. "Nothing will change that."

"Yes!" She jumped on the table, crawling over it and holding her daughter to her chest. "Yes you are!" her grin widened as she squeezed the breath out of her. "I'm never leaving you again!"

Amidst the joyous atmosphere, the drinking guards, and the noisy crowd, the Sultana stood upon her balcony, staring blankly into the clouds.

"Where do the stars twinkle in daylight…" she whispered to herself.

Looking down, she saw a group of her most trusted Hatchers, enjoying themselves. In an instant, her demeanor changed.

"Krea!" She screamed, silencing everyone at the party.

The guests looked at her with surprise, weariness overtaking them. The entire party glanced at Krea the Hatcher of Water Town.

"Come to my chamber, at once! Bring your friend."

Krea looked to the side, where Sky's mother stood with her. They both nodded, then ran for the Palace entrance.

"You, too, Bayarmaa!" the Sultana ordered, Shantae's mother glancing up at the balcony with a large Chunklet in her mouth.

"Dmmm Mmh hmhm Mm nm?" Baya asked, chewing her meal.

"At ONCE!" The Sultana reiterated.

Baya winked, spitting her unfinished food onto the grass, "Okay!" she bowed to the Chef Girl and Wobble Bell. "Thank you, the food was good, bye!"

She opened a Genie portal, and jumped inside. She re-emerged within the Sultana's throne room from another portal, and ran to her ruler's side, the guests at the party continuing their business.

"What is it, Majesty?" Baya crossed her arms behind her back.

"Wait for Krea." She answered.

The door to the throne room creaked open, the guards allowing the Hatcher's within from outside. Krea and Sky's mother ran to the balcony, worry on their faces.

"What's wrong, Majesty." Krea asked.

Sky's mother held her hands together, "What's got your feathers flustered, Highness?"

The Sultana walked into the throne room, her hands held close to her chest, "Krea, you've always been honest and true to me. Your friend, what's her name?"

"Moon Hatcher, Majesty." Krea replied.

"A friend of yours is a friend of mine." the Sultana paced, until she returned to the balcony, looking to the heavens. "Bayarmaa, you have proven yourself a wise Genie. And, you are the mother of Sequin Land's most special gemstone."

"Shantae's my little girl!" Baya giggled. "She's the cutest, and the funniest!"

"Your Sultana, needs your council." she revealed. "I fear for the worst."

"Go on, Majesty." Krea comforted. "We will give you all the council you need."

The Sultana tilted her head down, her fingers held tightly together under chin, "I dreamt of my brother last night, and the pain that I brought to him so many years ago. I was there, again, in the land of Starlight." She began to cry. "The same Starlight we once called home."

"What happened to your brother?" Sky's mom asked.

The Sultana struggled to speak, "I believe he now reigns in Burning Land, as King of the Shadow Bandits."

Baya crouched down, gazing up at her Majesty's face, "You look so sad. What can we do to help?"

The Sultana wiped her tears, clenched her fists, then looked Baya in eyes, "I command you to test my premonition. Grant my wish Genie, and show me what has transpired in Burning Land!"

"