T Plus 18 Days
Koopa had decided to spend the night in his castle, also dropping in to visit the Bennigan Brothers. They'd told him about their talk with MH, and that the Hand of Creation had agreed to lessen their punishment and give Stu a second chance as a Smasher in exchange for them attending Chad's meeting. In addition, Chad had contacted them with a private number, telling them to expect invitations on the following day containing details, directions and FAQs. The five of them ate dinner together, and then Koopa retired to his castle, turned on his TV to the PBS channel and went to sleep.
He woke up at 6a.m., showered and headed to his kitchen to make breakfast. Today's choice was scrambled eggs, bacon and hash browns, followed by two peach halves (of course) and some ice cold whole milk. Just as Koopa slid the last peach half into his mouth, his phone rang.
"Hello?" he answered.
"Good morning, Koopa," Peach crisply greeted.
"Hey there, Peachy," said Koopa. "I take it yesterday's meeting went well?"
"Yes. Mario is back in my kingdom's good graces."
Koopa huffed. "Typical," he muttered. Then, he smirked. "You don't mind if I swing by the MK for a visit, do you?"
"Actually, I do mind," said Peach. "Mario and I have recently made quite an interesting discovery."
"And what's that?"
"The night before those four guys jumped Mario, you made a phone call to Crazy Hand," said Peach.
Twin streams of milk shot out through Koopa's nostrils. "I beg your pardon?"
"We found one outgoing call from your cell phone at a 24-hour diner not far from the Smash Mansion," Peach went on, "and we traced it to Crazy Hand. We also have photos, videos and audio recordings of you at the meetings hosted by the Bennigan Brothers, in which you plotted to manipulate the suits at Nintendo to heavily nerf Luigi. And last month, multiple large deposits were made into your bank account."
"About that phone call, I panicked, all right?" said Koopa. "I didn't mean for that to happen. And I didn't mean for the two Steves to target you."
"You set in motion a chain of events that led to those four men cornering me," Mario had taken the phone, and he was now speaking to Koopa in a disturbingly even tone. "Two of those four kept beating me when I was down and also hurled verbal abuse at me. You should consider yourself lucky that my bro intervened."
"I'm sorry, Mario," sighed Koopa.
"You're going to be," vowed Mario.
"Mario, I've got this handled," Peach said gently as she took back the phone. "Now, Koopa, there's something else you need to know. I've authorized the MKPD to attempt to locate Crazy Hand and the two Steves via GPS. They made the fateful mistake of leaving their phones on, and we've pinpointed them at a Best Western hotel 20 miles east of your castle."
"Have you told Master Hand?" asked Koopa.
"I just did," Peach replied with icy sweetness. "So let's just cut the b.s., shall we? As soon as I hang up, I'm sending a ten-man team to the hotel, and I'm also sending Mario to your castle. They'll arrive at their respective destinations in about half an hour, and CH and the two Steves will be taken into custody. I can even tell you how that will go, and how your month-long association with them will impact your relationship with MH—and with us."
Koopa raised an eyebrow. "Or?" he prompted.
"Set a course for that Best Western on your airship and convince them to return peacefully," said Peach. "You might be able to save not only them but also yourself. Thirty minutes—bring those three straight to the Smash Mansion, and I'll tell everyone to turn around. Tick-tock."
Click.
Koopa put his phone away and finished what remained of his breakfast. Then, he went over to his intercom and instructed his minions to get his airship ready.
1.1.1
Inside the Best Western hotel room, CH and the two Steves were chowing down on their breakfast when they heard what sounded like a jet.
"What the…?" frowned Stevie.
"Stay here," said CH as he floated to the window and pushed aside the curtains. "Oh, my God…"
"What?" asked Steve.
"It's Koopa's airship," gasped CH.
"Oh, great," grumbled Steve. "Now everybody's coming to see us."
Outside, Koopa guided his airship to a smooth landing in one of the parking spaces, disembarked and strode inside the lobby.
Meanwhile, the two Steves and CH hotly debated what to do.
"It's not safe for us anymore," said CH. "We need to get out of here."
"Where can we hide?" asked Stevie. "MH has people on the lookout for us everywhere."
Before they could discuss it further, Koopa rapped on the door.
"Hey, guys," he said. "I need to talk to you. Now."
CH cursed under his breath as he went to the door and opened it.
"Make it quick," he said bluntly.
"I intend to," growled Koopa as he steamrolled into the hotel room, followed by several Koopa Troopas and Hammer Bros.
In no time flat, the two Steves found themselves grabbed by Koopa's minions. The men kicked and struggled, but the Koopa Troopas and Hammer Bros had an iron grip.
"Hey, what's all this?" barked CH.
"Please, have a seat," Koopa said to him, and CH could tell by the tone of his voice that his "please" was far from a request. It was an order.
Petulantly, CH sank onto one of the beds.
"Going after Peach without so much as a f—ing warning—are you insane?" Koopa demanded of the trio. "She, along with Zelda and Link, wound up going to the hospital! You stabbed us all in the back and opened up a can of worms, and for what?"
"They were getting dangerously close to the truth!" protested CH.
"Yeah!" added Steve. "Those three eavesdropped on your conversation with Dorf and Wario! Stevie and I did you a f—ing favor that day!"
"By hurting three innocent people?" balked Koopa. "You can't restrain yourselves. You never could. Well, now it's over!"
"What are you talking about?" snapped Stevie.
"The MKPD will be at this hotel in less than 30 minutes to take you in," said Koopa, "and Mario's en route to my castle as we speak."
"You gave us up to the Mushroom Kingdom," spat CH. "You're a spineless sellout."
"You gave yourselves up," Koopa said smartly. "Thanks to the GPS on your phones, they tracked you here. I'm giving you a chance to resolve this without violence or bloodshed. Because I know they're going to be anything but nice when they arrive, seeing what you did to their Princess."
"I don't know about you," said Stevie, "but I do not wanna deal with Mario again."
"So how about it?" asked Koopa. "Would you like to accompany me and my minions back to the Smash Mansion? Or do you want to wait for Peach's angry constituents to show up?"
CH, Steve and Stevie exchanged a look. Then, they looked back at Koopa.
"You win," CH sighed finally. "I'll call my brother and tell him we're coming back."
Koopa grinned. "Wise decision."
1.1.1
"Yes?" asked Peach when she answered her phone.
"I have them," said Koopa. "We're returning to the Smash Mansion now. Our bargain?"
Peach smiled sweetly. "Of course," she said. "I'm recalling everyone now."
"Thank you," said Koopa. "Oh, and Peachy?"
"Yes?"
"Wish Mario a happy anniversary for me."
"My God—it is the 18th, isn't it?"
"Yup. Those pesky plumbers have been kicking my [bleep] for 30 years!"
Peach laughed.
"All right. See you in two days."
"Yeah. See ya."
Koopa hung up and continued guiding his airship toward the Smash Mansion.
1.1.1
MH, Jimmy, Timmy, Remy, Rory, Lauren and Eden stood outside the Smash Mansion, watching Koopa's airship approach. Slowly, the aircraft descended until it was half an inch above the ground. A ramp descended in front of the assembled group, and then Koopa emerged, flanked by his minions.
"Hello, Koopa," said MH.
"Hello, Master Hand," said Koopa. "They're here—unharmed, I assure you."
"Good," smiled MH.
Koopa shook hands with the septet, and then he turned as several Hammer Bros escorted the two Steves down the ramp, followed by Crazy Hand.
"What shall we do with them?" asked one Hammer Bro.
"We'll keep them in their rooms for now," replied Eden. "Thank you—we'll take it from here."
The Hammer Bros turned the two Steves over to Remy and Rory, who marched them inside the Smash Mansion without a word of prelude.
Then, Crazy Hand made his way over to Master Hand, fingers clenched nervously. "Uh—hi…" he mumbled.
To his surprise, MH warmly embraced him.
"Welcome home, my dear Crazy Hand," said MH. "Thank goodness you're safe."
"I—I don't understand," said CH. "I helped those two escape."
"I know—and I forgive you."
"You—do?"
"Absolutely," beamed MH. "How can the two of us run a tournament if we're holding grudges against each other, right?"
"Right," laughed CH.
"Besides—no matter what crazy shenanigans you pull, you'll always be my brother," MH went on. "And there had to be a reason you decided to help those two."
"Well, now that you've mentioned it…"
"No matter," MH broke in. "We'll discuss it another time. For now, though—how about I take you to your favorite restaurant so we can catch up?"
CH smiled. "Sounds good to me!"
MH gave a secret wink to Eden, Lauren, Timmy and Jimmy as he and his twin floated off.
1.1.1
It was mid-morning in Evershade Valley. After going for a quick jog, Falco descended into his temporary workshop, senses still on high alert. His first action was to check the Boo Canister, where he saw the imprisoned Boos—and their King—on their laptops without a care in the world. Falco let out a breath and holstered his Blaster.
"Carry on," he said.
After putting on some music, Falco set to work, doing regular maintenance on his Arwing. Any faulty gear he discovered was quickly replaced, and he cleaned the interior as well as the windows and exterior. Finally, he checked the craft's tire pressure and changed the oil. By the time he was finished, he was covered in sweat and grease, but it didn't matter as long as his Arwing was in working condition. The avian wiped his face and hands, spread out some blueprints and began sketching away. There was no time like the present to consider improvements.
At long last, Falco set down his pencil and reclined in his chair, exhausted.
"I'd better send these to Peppy as soon as I get back," he mused.
He got up, washed his hands, grabbed a can of soda and turned off his music.
"Well, Falco, I certainly hope you're enjoying yourself."
Falco spun around.
King Boo was off his computer and now hovered at the Boo Canister's window, glowering at Falco.
"As a matter of fact, I am," Falco crisply replied. "Flying with Star Fox has always been my passion."
"I can see that," said King Boo. "Do you want to know my passion?"
"Uh—sealing people you don't like in paintings?"
"Doing what Kings do," King Boo icily replied. "Ruling."
"Wow—someone's in a mood today," observed Falco.
"No [bleep], Sherlock," snapped King Boo. "It's the anniversary, you know."
"The anniversary of the Mario Bros' first rescue of Peach," mused Falco. "The first time they beat up your friend and political ally. Is that why you're so upset?"
"No," said King Boo. "It was exactly fourteen years ago today, when I was first SHWEERRPP-SHLOOOORP-WHOOORPP-SHLEEEOOORG-ed into that vacuum!"
"Of course—of course," said Falco. "Luigi was told he won the free mansion, but it turns out that it was a trap you engineered, and then you grabbed his brother, and he had to rescue him…"
"Don't rub it in," growled King Boo. "Fourteen years—fourteen years, and the humiliation just won't go away. Then, twelve years after that, he did it again!"
"I—really can't feel sorry for you," said Falco. "You were the instigator, after all."
"Was I? Those two have been happily prancing through my territory for years!" huffed King Boo.
"To rescue somebody," Falco stated hotly. "To prevent anything bad from happening to her!"
"Yes—yes," huffed King Boo. "Perfect f—ing Mario Bros, always doing the right thing. Well, look where that got me!"
"Let me get this straight," said Falco. "Yesterday, you were making these creepy AF remarks about Luigi, and now you're ranting about how he ruined your life. Could you—could you make up your mind, please?"
"Luigi did ruin my life—and he just so happens to have an enviable physique!" exclaimed King Boo. "J—s, do I have to spell it for you?"
"No, you don't. I see exactly what you're doing. You're trying to paint yourself as the victim and doing a very poor job of it!"
"You're just saying that because you were his friend," charged King Boo.
"First of all, we're attempting to reconcile. Second of all, you are trying to paint yourself as the victim! Do you have any idea of the trauma you subjected Luigi to? Do you even care?"
"I've got a better question, Falco," spat King Boo.
"And what's that?" Falco wanted to know.
"Why does everything always have to be—my fault?!" roared King Boo, pounding a fist against the Canister's window.
"Are you kidding me?" balked Falco. "Koopa handles his repeated defeats more gracefully than you! He doesn't sit around stewing in hatred and feeling sorry for himself! He picks himself up and just—keeps—trying!"
"He's never had to experience the ordeal of being sealed inside a portrait and then thrown into this containment unit, where your every action is monitored 24/7!" King Boo hotly retorted. "And I hope to God that he never will!"
"You are so immersed in your own little world, that seeing Luigi suffer is the only thing that matters to you!" Falco accused. "You—are such—a d—k!"
Abruptly, King Boo slammed his entire body into the glass. Reflexively, Falco leaped back, drawing his Blaster and holding it on the Master of Illusions.
"Every day, I wake up and I hope he's dead!" snarled the King, chilling the marrow in Falco's bones. "Dead, like—if I can guarantee that my Boo brethren will be okay! I hope he gets an illness, and then gets hit by a car, and when he's dragged his broken and bleeding body to the other side of the road, I hope he falls into a trash compactor and dies!"
Just as Falco was about to present a sarcastic comeback, he felt someone catch the sleeve of his flight jacket and yank him backwards.
King Boo grinned morbidly. "And here he is," he sneered.
Luigi stood there, one hand flung out protectively in front of Falco and the other gripping the nozzle of his Poltergust. He spoke calmly to the avian in a low voice as he looked his mortal enemy squarely in the eye. "Falco. Put down your Blaster and get out of here. Now."
"L—I've got this handled," Falco said reassuringly.
"Not with that Blaster, you don't. Now, go. Quickly."
"I strongly suggest you do as he says," King Boo said sweetly as his captured brethren gathered around him, cackling.
Luigi planted himself between King Boo and Falco, the latter beginning to heed his advice and back away toward the exit, Blaster still raised.
"I've got your back, buddy," said Falco.
"That won't do anything," Luigi warned him, his gaze—and Poltergust—still trained on King Boo. "Run to the Gloomy Manor, and wait for me in the foyer."
"Oh, c'mon, Luigi..."
"Go!"
Unwillingly, the avian turned and fled. Luigi heard Falco's retreating footsteps as he stared King Boo down. His other hand now grabbed hold of the nozzle, his pointer and middle fingers on the vacuum's switch and his thumb poised over the red button that would activate the Strobulb.
King Boo licked his lips as he studied the man in green. "Happy anniversary, handsome," he cooed. "I hoped I'd see you today—maybe do a little reminiscing."
In response, Luigi tightened his grip on the Poltergust. A thousand scenarios were playing in his mind, scenarios of the King menacing Falco, stalking him and searching for the perfect opportunity to capture him as his personal plaything—scenarios that only he could prevent, regardless of what happened between him and the avian in the past. King Boo leered at him, and then he licked the glass separating them, but the man in green didn't even flinch.
"I'm only gonna say this once," said Luigi, still in that calm, clear and clipped voice. "Falco Lombardi is off limits."
Keeping his trusty vacuum trained on King Boo, Luigi retreated toward the exit. And then he, too, left the Vault.
1.1.1
Luigi headed straightaway to the Gloomy Manor's foyer, where he quickly located Falco.
Falco turned, and Luigi rapidly closed the distance between them, enveloping him in a hug. "Thank God you're okay," he said.
"He didn't do anything to me," Falco said softly. "Besides, I had everything under control."
"What were you thinking, instigating him like that?" Luigi wanted to know.
"I wasn't instigating him," said Falco. "He was just in a bad mood because it's the anniversary of his first defeat, and he took it out on me."
"Next time he tries to engage you, just ignore him, okay?"
"I just figured that he probably needed someone to vent to, seeing that he's cooped up in that Vault and all," said Falco, "but okay."
The two separated from the embrace and sat down at the edge of the fountain in the middle of the room.
"Thanks for the save, Luigi," said Falco.
Luigi quirked an eyebrow. "Usually, you say something like 'I guess I should be grateful'. What changed?"
"Recent events taught me to appreciate what I have before it's gone," explained Falco. "Plus, this is King Boo we're talking about here. He's more cunning and devious than Andross and Wolf combined."
"Indeed," said Luigi, "and your Blaster is useless against him and the other Boos. They can't be subdued via conventional means. This," He indicated the Poltergust, "is the only weapon that can stand up to their power. It's the only thing they fear."
"Well—some Smashers have come to fear it, too," said Falco.
"I'm serious about this, Falco. If you really want to learn about ghosts and ghost-wrangling, then you need to learn about the Poltergust."
"Would you—could you—teach me how to use it?" asked Falco.
"Of course," replied Luigi, standing up, sliding off the Poltergust and holding it out to Falco.
Falco rose from his seat and took the Poltergust, and Luigi helped him slide the apparatus onto his back.
"It's a little loose," Falco remarked.
"Let's tighten the straps," said Luigi, and the two of them manipulated the leather straps until they rested comfortably over Falco's shoulders. "Better?"
"Better."
"Okay," said Luigi. "The first thing you need to learn is how to hold the nozzle. I like to use both hands, especially when scuffling with a ghost, because it allows for better control."
"I'll probably wind up holding it a little differently," said Falco, "because I have wings—not to mention I'm right-handed."
"That's okay—I'm ambidextrous," said Luigi.
Falco picked up the nozzle and awaited the ghost-hunter's instructions.
"See that little handle under the red button?" asked Luigi.
"Yeah."
"Place your dominant hand—er, wing—there, if you please."
Falco obliged, sliding his right wing beneath the handle and taking hold of the nozzle.
"Now place your other wing a few centimeters behind that handle."
"All right," said Falco, moving his left wing as instructed.
"Perfect. Nice, firm grip," said Luigi. "If you find that uncomfortable, then you can always slide your left wing further toward you. And in the heat of battle, don't be afraid to adjust your grip as needed."
Falco nodded.
"Now, the second building block of using the Poltergust is posture," said Luigi, stepping behind Falco. "If I may."
"Go ahead," said Falco.
Luigi's hands slid over Falco's. "Okeydokey. Could you bring the nozzle to just above your chest?"
Falco did so.
"Hmm—maybe a little higher. To just below shoulder height."
"Okay," said Falco.
"And—straighten your back?"
Falco dutifully straightened his posture, rolling his shoulders back. "How's this?" he asked.
"Good, good. But stay relaxed. Standing there rigidly won't help you capture ghosts."
Falco allowed some of the tension to leave his body. He blushed as he felt his back press against Luigi's chest.
"I'm not making you uncomfortable, am I?" asked Luigi.
"No. Am I making you uncomfortable?"
"Not really. No."
"Thank God."
"Wow, Falco, you're really good at this," said Luigi. "Now comes the fun part—handling the Poltergust."
Falco drew a breath.
"First lesson—flash them with the bulbous end."
Falco rolled his eyes. "I know which end to use."
"Really? Can you tell me what the red button does?"
"It—flashes a light which stuns the ghosts," said Falco.
"That light is called the Strobulb."
"Strobulb. Of course." Falco chuckled.
"Without pressing it, could you move your 'thumb' over that red button?"
"I sure can," said Falco as he obliged.
"And the rest of your wing should be on the switch inside the handle," said Luigi. "That controls the vacuum."
"Got it."
"There's a third useful component to the Poltergust," said Luigi. "Can you tell me what it is?"
"Uh—er—the Dark Light Device," said Falco.
"Exactly," said Luigi, "and there a little button next to the vacuum switch that activates it."
Falco slid his wing a short distance away from the vacuum trigger and felt the button in question. "This?" he asked.
"Yup."
Falco exhaled.
"Okay—you're almost ready," said Luigi.
"What do I need to do now?" asked Falco.
"I want you to press and hold the red button," instructed Luigi. "Don't release it until I tell you."
The avian held down the red button, the Poltergust's flashlight component coming to life with a hum that steadily rose in pitch.
Luigi watched as the Strobulb reached its maximum power, feeling the adrenaline rush that came with it.
"Now," he softly commanded.
Falco released the button, the foyer lighting up in a brilliant flash and a loud ZZZAPPP!
"Whoa!" Falco exclaimed. "Totally wicked! Professor Gadd is one brilliant S.O.B.!"
"He is," said Luigi. "Could you activate the vacuum for me?"
Falco pressed the trigger, the nozzle gently vibrating in his hands as air rushed into the vacuum. "D—n," he said quietly. He released the trigger and turned his head, smiling at Luigi.
Luigi smiled back. "Do you ever wanna catch a ghost, Falco?" he asked.
"Me catching a ghost? Now that would be a sight," said Falco.
"Do you wanna know what it's like catching a ghost?"
"It must be a nightmare for you," said Falco.
"It was, at first," said Luigi, "but no amusement park ride will induce the rush you get when this vacuum is tight in your hands, when a ghost is struggling against the swirling vortex of air and when your body is being dragged all over the room. That's another thing. When you're capturing ghosts, try to pull the vacuum opposite the direction you're trying to go. If you can, try to balance yourself on your heels. Doing so will allow you to build up power and press the red button again to activate a Surge. The Surge has three levels, by the way."
"Do you see yourself using this Poltergust again—outside of Smash?"
Luigi pursed his lips. "I want to say 'no', but—Fate has a way of dealing an unexpected hand," he said. "Life will give me spaghetti sauce, so I'll just make spaghetti."
"Okay, well—do you see yourself using another Poltergust—a newer one? With better suction power and maybe some new tools at your disposal?"
"Maybe. Why do you ask?"
"He doesn't want me to tell you this—but he has a fan club that meets once a week," said Falco. "These fans could be mortals—or they could be ghosts, like him. And by the looks of things, they're rabidly devoted to him. Should you find yourself dealing with them, then a newer, better Poltergust might come in handy."
"Thanks for the warning," said Luigi.
"After what just happened with KB, I'd love to just—grab him by the tongue and just—slam him all over the place," said Falco.
"Me too, Falco," Luigi said quietly. "Me, too."
1.1.1
"I should back by sunset," said Vanessa as she emerged from a shower and a change of clothes. "There are lots of attractions near the hotel to keep the kids entertained."
Theo nodded. "You're really ready to do this?" he asked.
"Not really," confessed Vanessa, "but it would be better if she heard it from me than if it was dropped on her in two days."
"Are you sure you don't want us to come with you?"
"I think it should just be the two of us, woman-to-woman," said Vanessa.
"We'll be waiting outside, ready to catch you if things go awry," smiled Theo.
"Aw—that's sweet," said Vanessa, "but Peach is usually slow to anger. I don't think she'll have a volatile reaction to the news I'll give her."
"But just in case, though," said Theo.
"I know what you're saying," Vanessa said softly.
"Good luck, Nessa," said Theo.
"Thanks—I'm gonna need it," sighed Vanessa. "Kids—listen to your father."
"Yes, Mom," Ethan and Anna said in unison.
Vanessa slung her purse over her shoulder, kissed her husband and children goodbye-for-now and strode out of the hotel room with an air of purpose, taking the elevator down to the lobby and exiting into the October afternoon.
She didn't have to wait long.
A pink-tinted limo pulled up onto the curb, and a passenger-side window rolled down to reveal Peach. "Hop in," she said.
A valet opened the door for Vanessa, who climbed inside the limo and took a seat beside Peach, fastening her seatbelt. The valet closed the door after her, and the vehicle began to move.
As she settled back, Vanessa noticed that Peach was dressed down, wearing a simple, form-fitting cocktail dress and pink flats, her hair in a ponytail and minimal makeup on her face. The Mushroom Princess picked up a decanter of sparkling cranberry juice and poured it into two glasses, offering it to her fellow passenger.
"Yikes," mused Vanessa as she accepted the glass. "This limo has everything."
"True," said Peach.
"But are you afraid of being too conspicuous?" asked Vanessa.
"Not really. Outside of Koopa, I can take care of myself," Peach assured her. "Listen, I know a perfect place where we can have lunch together. Somewhere better than Waluigi's Taco Stand."
"Where?" asked Vanessa.
"Plank's," replied Peach. "They serve the best lunch around for a reasonable price. And there's a DJ playing music."
"Plank's," murmured Vanessa. "In Oakland, there's a place called Plank. Is Plank's similar?"
"You'll see," Peach told her.
Twenty minutes later, the limo arrived at the restaurant in question. Peach and Vanessa climbed out of the limo and walked inside, inhaling the welcoming scent of cooking food.
"Welcome to Plank's!" the hostess said brightly. "Right this way, if you please."
The two women were led to a booth by the window, and the hostess gave them a menu each. "Your server will be right with you," she said before leaving the duo to their own devices.
"Fancy tea parties tend to wear on me after a while," said Peach, "so whenever I need a more relaxed atmosphere, this is my go-to place."
"It's really nice," conceded Vanessa.
"As you can see, it's a restaurant where you can be you," Peach went on. "The hostess didn't even make a big deal out of me being a patron."
"Maybe because you're a regular, or…"
"It's because they understand that I need a break from it once in a while," said Peach. "On Tuesdays and Fridays, they're especially careful when it comes to that. That's when Koopa pays his regular visits, you know."
Their server arrived to take their drink orders.
"We'll have two waters and a bottle of Moscato," said Peach.
"Coming right up," the server said before withdrawing.
Vanessa and Peach then looked over their menus.
"Would you like to share an appetizer with me?" Vanessa asked finally.
"Sure—what looks good?"
"The Dippable Fries," replied Vanessa. "They have Carne Asada Fries, Bacon and Cheddar Fries, BBQ Lovers Fries, Ham and Swiss Fries."
Peach smiled. "You had me at 'bacon and cheddar'!"
When the server reappeared with the drinks, the two women ordered the Bacon and Cheddar Dippable fries, with Sweet BBQ as their choice of dipping sauce. With a smile, the server departed again to put their orders in.
"I could use food like this," said Peach once the ladies were chowing down on their fries. "You have no idea what's happened to me over this past week—and shortly after getting rescued, too!"
"I heard a little bit about it on the news," said Vanessa.
"And not only that—the cowards ran for it!" sniped Peach. "Not only did they want revenge for what Mario did, but they also acted on Crazy Hand's orders."
"Why would Crazy Hand want to…?"
"Zelda, Link and I were venturing close to the truth behind the update patch, and CH wanted to discourage us," explained Peach. "Not only that—remember those four guys who cornered Mario and would've crushed his spirit if Luigi hadn't shown up?"
"What about them?"
"Turns out, CH sent them, and he found out that I was able to warn Mario."
"Where are they now?" hissed Vanessa, referring to Crazy Hand and the two Steves.
"Earlier this morning, I played some hardball with Koopa," grinned Peach. "He made a phone call to CH the night before Mario's run-in with that quartet. I persuaded him to track those three down to the hotel where they were hiding and convince them to give themselves up."
Vanessa was still hot. "I'm gonna…"
Peach laid a hand over hers, quieting the redhead. "What's coming for them is worse than anything you can dream up," she said.
"And what's that?"
"You'll see," winked Peach. "But—enough talk about that."
"I agree," said Vanessa.
"So—you and your family have decided to vacation here?"
"We have."
"You couldn't have come at a better time," smiled Peach. "The weather's pretty mild, and we have our Fall Festival and Halloween Bash coming up."
"Wait a minute—today's the 18th," said Vanessa. "Thirty years ago today, the Mario Bros rescued you for the first time."
"Thirty years and counting," said Peach.
"Don't you usually hold a party or something?"
"We do, but we've decided to move it to tomorrow," explained Peach. "That's when Luigi's gonna meet up with us. We'll all spend tomorrow night in my castle, and then we'll head straight to the meeting. I shouldn't tell you this, but—Chad's holding it in Sarasaland."
"Sarasaland? The empire whose ruler is dating Luigi?"
"I'm surprised, too," said Peach, "but Daisy's normally a forgiving soul, like me."
"Are you going?"
"You bet! I think I deserve to know if there's a plot against one of my kingdom's protectors!" In a softer voice, Peach continued, "It's open to the public, but closed to the press, so if you want to come, too…"
"I'll talk it over with Theo and the kids," said Vanessa.
"What about the celebration tomorrow? Are you coming?"
"We wouldn't miss it for the world," grinned Vanessa.
"So—what have you been up to here in the MK?" asked Peach.
"Relaxing on tour buses, enjoying the view and eating good food," replied Vanessa. "We even toured Boo Woods yesterday."
"And?"
"The Boos were doing their usual thing. But when one of them got in Ethan's face, you should've seen Anna. She wouldn't have any of that at all!"
"What did she do?" asked Peach.
"She told that Boo to leave her brother alone!" Vanessa proudly recounted.
Peach laughed heartily. "Atta girl!"
"Say that again," said Vanessa.
"I'm so happy that the two of them are getting along nowadays," said Peach.
"That makes two of us," said Vanessa, "but in the worst of times, Ethan and Anna will look out for each other—as those Boos certainly found out yesterday afternoon. Have I mentioned that Ethan wants to be more like Mario?"
"Then I suppose Anna will want to model herself off of Luigi," mused Peach. "She stood up to a Boo to protect Ethan."
"Well—I don't see her strapping a ghost vacuum onto her back, but—yeah. She and Ethan are getting closer by the day."
The two shared a laugh.
A little later, a DJ began spinning party tunes. Peach and Vanessa also saw the DJ set out a sign-up sheet for a dance contest. Their eyes met, instantly getting the same idea, and then they walked over to the sign-up sheet and put down their names.
"Do you enter their contests often?" asked Vanessa.
"Not really," said Peach. "Despite the low-key atmosphere, I don't wanna take any chances and draw too much attention. But today—I'm willing to make an exception."
"I don't mean to be a braggart," said Vanessa, "but I can totally cut a rug and give us an edge in this contest. But like I keep telling Anna and Ethan—it's never about winning or losing."
"Do you want to win?" asked Peach.
"Well—winning would feel good," conceded Vanessa, "but I just wouldn't try too hard."
"I see your point," said Peach. "If only the Smashers who got on Luigi's case nonstop about him always beating them had seen it, too."
They finished their fries and sipped on some more wine before it was time for the contest to begin.
"Tell you what," said Peach. "Let me do my best to help you bring that trophy home to Theo and the kids."
"Okay," said Vanessa.
The ladies joined the other contestants in lining up around the dance floor, the DJ calling out their names at random. The songs for each contestant or group of contestants would also be randomly chosen. As the contest commenced, the restaurant's other patrons watched the action as they ate, cheering everyone on and clapping in time to the music.
Finally, it was Vanessa and Peach's turn.
"Ready?" asked Peach.
"Let's do this," said Vanessa.
They took off their shoes and strode onto the middle of the dance floor. As "Shake it Off" began to play, the two women began to dance, twirling each other like expert ballroom performers and twisting and shimmying like they were at a diner in the 1950s, moving in perfect sync. Everyone looked taken aback, and with good reason. Who knew that their Princess could dance like that?
Vanessa laughed, Peach laughing with her. They'd never had so much fun. Not when Vanessa was playing board games with Theo, Anna and Ethan on family night and not when Peach was competing in her numerous sporting events. Here at Plank's, they were just two women, two friends, decompressing after a few stressful days.
They finished their dance to uproarious applause from the crowd. The masses had spoken—Peach and Vanessa had won first prize.
"Told ya," winked Peach as the two of them carried the trophy to the limo once they'd paid for their meal.
1.1.1
From Plank's, Peach and Vanessa went to the Mushroom Mall, where much shopping ensued. Lots and lots and lots of shopping. Dashing between the dresses lined up on the racks and the fitting rooms, weaving among the shelves of heels, flats, sandals and sneakers until they found the right style. Trying on fragrances, eye shadows, foundations, lipsticks, glosses, blushes, eyeliners and lipliners. Treating themselves to mani-pedis and facials at the spa before soaking off the tension in a Jacuzzi or letting the negative vibes melt away in the steam room. Sampling chocolates at See's Candies, and then sampling wines at numerous wineries. Vanessa even got to test-drive a kart! They eventually wound up at an FAO Schwarz, taking the elevator up to the third floor where the famous piano mat awaited.
Once again barefoot, Peach and Vanessa stood in line, and when their turn came, the two of them hopped on the piano mat and played a duet together. It was a tune they both knew all too well, the tune that started the very first level of the very first Super Mario Bros! While it was a simple tune on a normal piano, it was rather complex on FAO Schwarz's piano mat! Shoppers and employees alike were thrilled by this lovely trip through time, some of them recording the two women on their camera phones.
The ladies had time to play a few bars of the castle theme from Super Mario 64 before it was time to yield the piano mat to the next shopper. Breathlessly, Vanessa and Peach exited the store, exchanging huge smiles as they strode toward the limo.
Vanessa checked her watch—it was getting late. She needed to head back to the hotel, so that she and her brood could get ready for dinner.
"Shall we return to your home away from home?" asked Peach.
"Please," said Vanessa.
The moment Vanessa dreaded fast approached as she and Peach piled into the limo and fastened their seatbelts, drinking water and pineapple juice as they gazed silently out the window. Since there was little to no congestion, they arrived at the hotel sooner than Vanessa hoped.
"I really enjoyed our outing," said Peach as the limo rolled to a stop.
"So did I," said Vanessa. "Thanks for the lunch and a pleasant afternoon."
"We should meet up more often," said Peach.
Vanessa nodded, steeling herself.
"Is—something wrong?"
Vanessa took a deep breath and said a silent prayer for strength.
"Before I go," she said, "there's something I need to tell you."
"Okay," said Peach.
"It's something—really bad," Vanessa regretfully went on, "and it concerns Luigi."
Peach intently leaned forward. "Please, tell me," she said. "I won't bite—that hard."
Here goes nothing, said Vanessa.
And then she told the Princess everything.
1.1.1
As promised, Theo and the kids waited for Vanessa in the lobby, watching the limo as it sat there for what felt like a long time. When Vanessa at last emerged, bearing shopping bags and a trophy, the trio rushed out to greet her.
A glum expression was on Vanessa's face, tears worrying at her eyes. Her gaze was downcast, and her head was slightly bowed as she strode toward the entrance. Theo met her, hand-in-hand with the children, zeroing in at once on her saddened state.
"Hey," he said, concerned. "How'd it go?"
"As well as I expected," Vanessa dejectedly replied.
Theo offered to help his wife with her bags, and then his eyes fell on the trophy.
Vanessa smiled wanly. "I'll tell you about it later," she promised.
"Vanessa, wait!"
The family watched as Peach hopped out of the limo and ran over to them.
"I'll take everything upstairs, shall I?" said Theo.
"Thanks," Vanessa said quietly, her eyes still on Peach.
A flustered look was on Peach's face. "I really don't know what to think right now," she said.
"All I have to say is that I'm sorry," said Vanessa. "There are no excuses for what I did and what my family did. But all I could think about was Ethan and his behavior and that maybe…"
Gently, Peach shushed her. "When you told me that you were a fan of mine, you weren't lying," she said. "Our friendship—that wasn't a lie."
"No," said Vanessa.
"It wasn't a question," said Peach. "I know that you really like me, and that you really like Mario and enjoy playing his games."
"Before Project Nerf, Ethan would get really frustrated trying to fight a Luigi main," said Vanessa. "Then, he was acting out and getting suspended from school—all I could think was that if Project Nerf would somehow help him channel his frustration, the maybe I could repair my relationship with him. I'm not justifying this. I just want you to understand."
"During our first lunch date, you told me a little about Ethan," said Peach, "and there was the time he went off on Mario after he lost to Luigi. You and Theo just went along with it because—you were protecting your son. Right?"
"Right."
"And Anna—she's just a kid. But what gets me more than the fact that you partook in this is—why did you cave in to your son? Why did you coddle him instead of discipline him?"
"I guess—Theo and I wanted to skirt responsibility. We tried to help Ethan improve against Luigi. I even fought a few matches as Luigi. But nothing would seem to work; Ethan would rage quit and even take it out on Anna."
"And you blamed Luigi for that."
"Yes."
"Vanessa—I know you thought you were trying to help Ethan, but you weren't. You and Theo were teaching him—along with Anna—that the solution to their problems was to angrily rail at people until they did something about it, rather than trying to solve their problems themselves."
"I know," said Vanessa. "Can you ever forgive us?"
"You told me that Ethan's behavior has improved since his blowup with Mario," said Peach.
"Yeah. He wants to make it up to him."
"I see genuine remorse in your eyes," Peach went on. "When Koopa grabbed me, you and your family communicated with me to make sure I was okay. Despite your issue with Luigi's combos, you hoped that he'd help Mario save me."
Vanessa nodded.
"Come to the meeting in Sarasaland," said Peach. "Tell me everything. Tell them everything."
"I wanted to tell you so you wouldn't be blindsided," explained Vanessa.
"You made the right decision," said Peach.
"Do you hate me?"
"I hate what you did—but not you. I could never hate you. You've been nothing but kind to me."
"Peach—I'll make this up to you. I promise."
"Come to the meeting," Peach softly commanded. "We'll build our way up from there."
She leaned forward and softly kissed Vanessa on the cheek.
"See you in two days?"
"Absolutely."
Vanessa watched as Peach glided back inside her limo, waving as it drove off. Then, she turned and walked into the hotel room, a feeling of peace beginning to wash over her.
1.1.1
A small celebration of sorts was happening in Evershade Valley. Gadd, Luigi and Falco were in the Gloomy Manor's foyer, joined by the valley's ghosts, enjoying pizza, cake and fruit punch. For on this day fourteen years ago, Luigi confronted his fears for the first time. It was a negative memory for King Boo, but a positive one for the man in green.
"This just came in the mail," said Gadd, handing Luigi a manila envelope.
Luigi opened the envelope and smiled as he took out the homemade get-well card. "It's from the Smashers," he mused.
Both sides of the card were covered top to bottom with encouraging messages and signatures. Even Chad, Charlie and Daisy had signed it when it made a stop in Sarasaland. Happy tears sparkled in Luigi's eyes as he read each message. Then, he kissed two of his fingers before placing them over Mario's message and signature.
"It was very nice of the Smashers to send you a card," said Falco, "but I think it's missing something." He took out a pen of his own. "I hope you don't mind."
Wordlessly, Luigi handed the card to Falco, who found a blank space on the paper to sign his name. Professor Gadd also signed the card, as well.
"Now it's finished," said the elderly scientist.
"Even those who yelled at MH over your combos pitched in," observed Falco. "If that isn't a sign of remorse, then what is?"
"You think MH persuaded them?" asked Luigi.
"Not at all."
"I'll make sure to thank them when I get back," said Luigi, pocketing the card.
"All righty," said Gadd. "What do you say to a toast?"
"Sure," said Falco.
"I'm up for a toast," said Luigi.
Gadd exited the foyer, walking back in a minute or so later with a bottle of sparkling grape juice and a stack of cups. He lined up the cups in neat rows on the table before opening the bottle and carefully filling each cup until it was three-quarters full.
Eagerly, the ghosts crowded around the table, waiting for Gadd to finish. Once the bottle was empty, they all settled back as the scientist began handing out cups of the sparkling beverage to everyone. Once the crowd of ghosts had lessened, Gadd made his way over to Luigi and Falco.
Once everyone held a cup, Gadd stood in the center of the foyer. "The time has come to take a moment and honor a man who, sorry to say, isn't quite honored enough. A man who, while flawed, won't let those flaws stop him from doing the right thing. I can't say this enough—I'm honored to have met him and helped him tap into and embrace his hidden bravery. May his actions on that autumn night in 2001 remain inscribed upon the pages of our history." He raised his glass. "To Luigi."
"To Luigi," said Falco, also raising his glass.
The ghosts also raised their glasses, cheering.
"Thank you," said Luigi. "Remembering that night is bittersweet for me, and it will always be bittersweet. But I'd like to think that the sweet outweighs the bitter. I met an eccentric friend and learned a skill that I eventually discovered I was pretty good at. Most of all—if that night hadn't happened, then I'd still be reined in by my fears. Here's to you, Professor Gadd, for saving my life, arming me and giving me the strength I needed to help my bro. And here's to King Boo—for making me that much stronger."
"Cheers," said Gadd and Falco, and then everyone drank their sparkling grape juice.
"Let's have some more cake," said Luigi, and everyone wholeheartedly agreed.
Generous slices of the cake were levered out onto plates. Just as Luigi received a slice, his phone rang, and he excused himself to answer it.
He knew who it was.
"Happy anniversary, Bro!" Mario said brightly when Luigi picked up.
"Thanks, Mario," said Luigi. "Sorry I couldn't make it to the party."
"No worries—we're holding it tomorrow," said Mario, "and besides, that wasn't the anniversary I was talking about. I'm referring to the more important anniversary."
Luigi's heart swelled. "Bro…"
"I could never forget that moment," Mario said softly. "Even after fourteen years. And—I know there's a lot going on lately, but recent events won't stop me from recalling the second you marched into that Secret Altar."
Luigi closed his eyes and pictured the scene as Mario spoke.
"You were standing there—framed by the glow of the candles burning around us and the lights from the chandelier on the ceiling, you looked just like an angel—my angel. And you were looking at me—even as he was talking this garbage about you falling for his trap, your eyes were always on me. I was so happy to see you…"
"And I was so happy to see you," said Luigi.
"I was worried for you because you were already bruised and bandaged, and on every bruise and bandage was a story of the battles you had to fight to get to that point," Mario went on. "Then, you took an even worse beating to get me out of there. I saw him in his mech, belching fire at you, slashing at you and rolling those heavy iron balls toward you—punching you, swatting at you and tossing and slamming you all over the arena, but you kept on fighting. You were bleeding all over yourself, but you kept on fighting. All I could concentrate on was your face."
"Ditto," whispered Luigi. "But I never got around to asking—how did you know it was a mech? Did you see him get into it?"
"No. I just knew. And I didn't want you to panic."
"I didn't. It would've made the situation worse."
"If you wanted to leave me hanging on that wall, then I would've understood," said Mario.
"Wh—why would I do that?" asked Luigi.
"Sometimes, I take you for granted," Mario explained. "When I was in your arms in that lab, I took the time to appreciate how good it felt. I don't think I tell you 'I love you' enough. And sometimes, I can be a b—d. I left you behind in at least five of my adventures, I get flustered whenever you best me in a sporting event or a Smash battle, I stepped on your foot after that Power Tennis tournament, I verbally tore you apart after MH suspended me. And yet you risk your life and your safety for me. You took on those four men for me and you were willing to endure Koopa torturing you for me…"
"Mario, I…"
"And then I think back on that night and I want to know—why?"
"Because—you grew next to me in our mamma's belly. Because you defended me as many times as I defended you. Because I look up to you and I love you and…" Luigi's voice broke.
"The 18th of October has become an emotional day for me since the mansion," sniffled Mario.
"For me, too," said Luigi.
"I know you're still thinking about what I said and—I'm so sorry! I don't know what else to say!" Mario let out a sob, which made Luigi sob. "I was foolish and selfish and p—ed off, and I took it out on you!"
"As much as your words hurt, butting heads makes the MK vulnerable to attack," said Luigi. "The next day, I knew I had to swallow my pride and talk to you, but…"
"You don't have to say anymore, Bro," said Mario. "You—you haven't been around him, have you?"
"I tried to stay away, but I overheard him ranting, wishing I was dead," said Luigi. "I rushed in there and saw him with his face pressed against the glass, snarling at Falco. And I just—acted. He hurt me, but that doesn't mean I want that psycho near him."
"Me, neither."
"I needed to look him in the face and tell him that he wasn't bothering any more of my friends."
"Is Falco okay?"
"The experience shook him up a little, but he's fine."
"Despite Falco's arrival, I hope you've found peace," said Mario.
"I have," said Luigi. "I'm ready to join you and Peach tomorrow, and to hear everyone out at the meeting the day after that."
"Me, too," said Mario.
"Nothing can tear us down, Mario," said Luigi. "Remember that."
"I will. Lil' Bro—I knew I had to call you today."
"And I'm glad you did," said Luigi. "A domani, Mario."
"A domani."
Luigi hung up, composed himself and rejoined Falco, Gadd and the ghosts in the foyer.
1.1.1
Once the small party had wound down, Falco and Luigi relaxed on the terrace of the Treacherous Mansion, staring up at the Dark Moon shining brightly in the sky.
"Falco," said Luigi.
"Yeah?"
"Is there anything you'd like to tell me before you come up and speak at the meeting? Anything I should know?"
"All I have to say is that—I let my frustration spiral out of control, and I made some rash decisions as a result," said Falco.
"Such as…?"
"Initiating contact with the Bennigan Brothers and meeting with Mr. Sakurai. And attending the Project Nerf meetings."
"Did you really want me nerfed?"
"Yes."
"Did you hate me because of my combos?"
"Well—not in so many words…"
"You sure sounded like you hated me," said Luigi.
"It was in the heat of the moment. I don't hate you, Luigi."
"Then why do I feel like you do? We were friends, and then you…"
"I promise," said Falco, "at the meeting, I'll straighten things out, once and for all."
"Like it'll automatically make things okay."
"It'll make them better," Falco said softly. "We'll have no more lies and no more secrets."
"I just want to be ready," said Luigi. "Ready for whatever sordid facts will come out two days from now. And I don't know how I'll react to them."
"Whatever we confess," said Falco, "just know that we're confessing because we want to. Not because someone is forcing us into it."
"Yes, well—don't expect me to magically forgive you," said Luigi.
"Of course not."
Luigi crossed his hands behind his head. "On a more personal note," he said, "I'm glad you showed up here in the valley."
"See? Having me around wasn't so bad," quipped Falco.
"No," said Luigi. "It wasn't."
Cautiously, Falco reached out his wing.
Slowly, Luigi took it.
And the estranged pair exchanged a warm smile.
Please R&R.