The Once and Future Queen

Chapter 2.

Only rainbows after rain


As the final bell rang, teachers throughout the building shared an unprecedented collective sigh of relief with nearly all of their students. The school year had finally drawn to a close, and the first blissful moments of summer vacation were finally upon them. No more tests, studying, grading or early morning duties. Just eleven weeks of freedom, no responsibilities, and waking up whenever you feel like it.

Unless you're Marco Diaz, that is. At sixteen years old, he had more important things to do than what many of his classmates were considering. As he finished cleaning his locker of months of school supplies, his mind began to wander, thinking back to the three months of preparations he'd been enduring for the coming week. But before it could wander too far, a familiar face made itself known.

"Marco!" Janna shouted, jumping from his blind spot and slapping her hand against a steel locker door. Marco nearly shrieked in surprise, but instead merely jumped back and assumed a ready position for combat. Something that had been well-ingrained into his head by none other than Reynard himself. When he noticed who it was, he let his body relax and began collecting his scattered books from the floor.

"Janna, how many times do I have to tell you not to sneak up on me?" he asked, annoyed at the recurring introduction.

"I'd say at least another dozen times, but my gut tells me more" she answered, giving him a slight grin. Marco rolled his eyes before closing his locker and slinging a heavy backpack over his shoulder. "Can we knock that down to five, or is your gut closed to negotiations?"

Before she could answer, Jackie called out to them from down the hall, weaving her skateboard through a crowd of students desperate to escape. "Hey! There you guys are!" she yelled, skidding her board to a stop beside them. "I was wondering if we were gonna be able to meet up after our classes let out. You two still on for Panucci's Pizza tonight?"

"Absolutely," Janna answered as she collected her things from her own locker, her voice echoing from within, "Marcos treat."

"Oh man, that's awesome! Thanks a ton, Marco!" Jackie yelled, pulling him into a hug before he could protest. "Yeah uhh… no problem," he answered. Pulling her head from her locker, Janna shot her a quick wink as Jackie stepped back and smiled at the two.

"So Marco, you ready to end sophomore year with a bang? I know you've been working extra hard for this since Christmas," said Jackie as the three began heading for the exit. Marco gave her a quick nod, smiling excitedly for tomorrow.

"It's been a tough time, but yeah, I'm ready. How about you? I heard you spent a month in New York for your training session." Jackie let her collected demeanor falter if only slightly, shuddering at the thought. "It was… also pretty rough. When my parents heard I applied, they were thrilled, but they really wanted me to learn more about proper etiquette and stuff, so they sent me to my Aunt Holly's upstate. There's like, no waves up there, man."

"Jeez," Marco said under his breath, "And I thought I had it bad. Reynard's been running me ragged on combat drills and exercise plans, but at least I'm always home. Crazy how different everyone's training has been. I barely had enough time to get my black belt last week."

"How is Reynard by the way? I haven't seen him all week," Jackie asked. Marco shrugged as the three stepped into the fresh warm air of summer, finally free of their academic confines. "He's been doing alright, a lot better than when we started training though. You know how hard that time was for him."

Jackie nodded but tried to remain optimistic. "I know things keep getting worse for them, but I'm really glad they decided to let us do this. It's a step in the right direction." That note hit home for Marco, who remembered well how groundbreaking the news was. For the bad and the good.

Janna nudged his shoulder, smirking at him before adding, "Well, sounds like you guys are raring for some hard work this summer."

Jackie smiled and rolled her eyes as the trio continued walking, asking "And what does the mighty Janna Ordonia have planned? You gonna go back to working at Britta's?"

"Not a chance in the multiverse," Janna returned, pulling a small, badly worn book from her satchel and showing it to the other two proudly. "Not to shamelessly brag about myself, but I'm doing my own thing this summer. No stuffy, uptight tour guides, just me, the dark arts, and some reeaal creepy people."

Jackie and Marco shared an uneasy look before the trio burst into laughter just outside the school. Marco patted Jannas shoulder and wiped an imaginary tear from his eye, jesting, "no-no, you'd never brag. But that all sounds right up your alley. Lemme know if you need us to come over and slay a mutant pot of frog toes or something, alright?"

"Yeah yeah, laugh now Diaz, some of these ingredients need joy to work the way I want 'em to."

Unsure on whether or not she was joking, Jackie set down her board and placed a leg on it, giving the other two a small wave. "On that note, I'll be seeing you guys later. Don't forget, Marco, seven o'clock sharp!"

"Sounds great, I'll be there!" he returned, waving her goodbye. "And you," he began, turning to face Janna with a smirk adorning his face, "You can give back my wallet if you want me to actually pay tonight."

Janna returned with a shrug and handed him a small leather parcel before folding her arms. "It's no fun when you notice, Diaz."

"Hard not to, these days. Maybe you're just getting cocky," he quipped before beginning his trek home. He waved goodbye to Janna as she called out after him, "Don't push your luck, Diaz! I have a whole book of curses I could use on you! And I know where you live!"

O - O - O - O - O - O - O - O

When Marco arrived home, he unceremoniously emptied his backpack into the garbage before stuffing it with his plate armor, his wooden longsword, a few bottles of water, his first aid kit, and some sunscreen. While some aspects of his routine life had changed drastically, old habits die hard. He was about to make his way over to the park when Angie and Raphael stepped into the kitchen, both brandishing a small cake and waving purple flags.

"Ohhh, Marco!" Angie began, setting the cake down and pulling him into a bone-crushing hug, "your final day of training! Are you excited about tomorrow? Do you feel ready?" After finally being released, Marco rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. "Well, I'm pretty nervous about this whole 'selection' thing, but yeah. I feel like I'm ready for it."

Raphael stepped over to him and patted his back so hard, Marco had to fight to keep from falling over. "Look at my son! Only sixteen years old, and already going to work so he can change the world! We are so proud of you, mijo!"

Marco couldn't help but smile at that. He knew his job was important, and it was a major stepping stone for the entire city, maybe even the world someday, but seeing how proud and excited his family was, was really something else. "Thanks, dad. Hopefully the hours aren't crazy though. I mean, they haven't exactly told us much. I've kinda been relying on Reynard to fill me in on the major things."

"Well no matter what, we're so proud of you for deciding to do this, Marco," Angie began, taking his hands in hers, "you've really grown so much since you started high school. I hardly recognize you, my little man."

"Si, by the time you are thirty, you might even be as big as me!" Raphael toted, giving off a small flex to prove his point. Marco gave off a small blush and slung his backpack over his shoulders, slowly shuffling towards the door. "Haha, yeah, I doubt that, but all this training definitely helps," he chuckled. Raphael was about to comment, but Angie quickly pushed Marco towards the door. "Okay Okay, go enjoy your last day, and be careful, sweetheart!" she yelled as he took off running down the sidewalk.

"I will mom!" he called out behind him, jumping towards the sidewalk and breaking into a run. As he ran along the streets, the once alien sights of Echo Creek seemed just as homey as they always did. Lucky Lucy's artisan corn shed, Henry's blacksmith, Charlies Arcade, and of course, the ever illustrious Britta's Tacos. As the sights passed him by, he felt a warmth building in his chest at the progress that had been made over the last four months. It almost seemed to drown out the negatives that came with them.

After about fifteen minutes, he finally walked through the gated entrance of the park, instinctively taking winding paths towards a more wooded area. After one final bend, he rounded the corner to see a familiar face leaning against a tree.

"Reynard! Hey!" he called out excitedly, jogged the remainder of the way. Reynard looked up and acknowledged Marcos presence, but something seemed off about him. It wasn't the blue jacket or fashionably ripped jeans, Marco had gotten used to those after a while. But Reynards expression was somewhat downcast, despite the beautiful day. "Hey, you alright?" Marco asked him.

"Yes, I suppose I've just been rather caught up in my own head lately. Nothing to be concerned about, I assure you."

Marco tilted his head, not believing that for a moment, and pressed further. "Reynard, you're usually in a great mood, what's on your mind?" he asked, tilting his head slightly. Reynard let out a brief sigh and flopped down on the grass, looking up at the gently swaying limbs of the tree giving them shade. "I can't help but be brought back to the beginning of all of this, Marco. I'm aware that it's not healthy to dwell too much on the past, but what of the future?"

Marco sat down beside him, taking off his backpack and handing Reynard a bottle of water. "It's going to be good, I promise. I know coming here was hard, and things aren't looking good back home, but we can make this place feel just as real a home for you. That's why we're doing this, you know?" Marco gave Reynard a sincere smile, but it was answered with a dejected nod. The two sat in silence for a moment, listening to the birds chirp.

"Do you think you'll ever be able to go back?" Marco asked, laying down himself. Reynard shook his head softly. "You know better than anyone how much hope I hold for such a proposal, but I fear that for the time being, it isn't a possibility."

"Oh, right. Sorry, I forgot. But hey, it's not forever right?" Marco asked. Reynard finally shed some of his morose demeanor and sat upright, smiling back. "I'm afraid I don't know the answer to that. But for now, employing individuals such as yourself seems to be a far better use of my peoples time. How do you feel?"

Marco sat upright, folding his arms over his knees and sinking slightly at the question. "I feel… nervous. Tomorrow's the big day, you know? I don't even know who I'll be working for, or what they'll want me to do. I feel ready, but the 'selection' part gets me worked up just thinking about it."

Reynard stood up, pulling Marco to his feet and giving him a joyful pat on the back. "Nonsense, Marco, you have nothing to be worried about. I know that whoever chooses you, they will be making a wise choice indeed." He smiled at Marco but was met with an expression of uncertainty. He went on, saying, "And think of all the good you'll be doing for my people. This is the first step towards healthier relations, and letting go of the past."

Marco actually smiled at that, thinking instead to the outcome of his work, rather than the initial process. "Yeah, when I made you that promise at Britta's two years ago, I wasn't really sure what I'd be getting into, but I'm glad we're doing this. It's a chance to make a real difference in everyone."

"That's the spirit, lad!" Reynard shouted, resting his hands on his hips, "Meet the uncertainty of the future with nothing but optimism, and its outcomes will do nothing but match you." Marco nodded before looking towards his backpack, jerking his head in that direction. "So, you ready for our last day of training? What do ya have in store for me?" he asked.

But Reynard merely pulled his scissors from his pocket, flashing Marco an ecstatic smile. "I'm afraid I've taught you everything I can for now, Marco. Today I merely present you with a gift to mark the end of your training, and the beginning of a bright future." Marco made to ask what any of that even meant, but Reynard quickly cut open an indigo portal big enough for his arm and thrust it in up to the shoulder.

He rummaged around inside for a moment, deep in concentration before pulling it back out, carrying a large, skinny wooden box adorned with intricate carvings. After closing the portal, he held it gingerly, as if enjoying its beauty for the last time. "Forgive all the grandeur, I had just forgotten it at home. I hope you like it," he said softly before holding it out to his trainee.

"What is it?" Marco asked curiously as he took it in his hands, running his fingers over the carvings until he found the latching mechanism on the front. "Hmmm, I haven't the foggiest idea," Reynard answered as he grinned at the boy, "Perhaps you could open it and enlighten us both?"

Marco gave him a deadpan expression before unlatching the top and opening it wide. He stood there for a moment, his eyes wide as he took in the contents. Inside, nestled in a red velvet cloth, was a longsword unlike any he'd seen before. It was polished well, the sheen of its blade overtaking the many scruffs that adorned it. It had a royal blue hilt made of crisscrossing leather, leading down to a golden, hexagonal pommel decorated with an intricate butterfly. Above the hilt were two golden cross-guards, angled up, and barbed at the tip. And at the center of the sword was a single, golden butterfly trailing a stem of gold to the tip of the blade.

"Wha- Reynard, what is this?" Marco asked as he let his gaze shift between the contents of the box to his mentor, "This isn't something you give to a buddy, this is something a dying king gives to a prince!" He looked to Reynard, but found his expression once again somber against the sunlight. "Too true of words, Marco. This sword was given to me by my father before he set off to war. He never came back, and it's been with me ever since. It's been handed down for generations in my family, but I find that I cannot bear to keep it any longer."

Marco stammered unintelligibly for a moment before pushing the box towards Reynard. "I can't take this, man. This is waaaay too important. You should keep it." But Reynard held up his hands in refusal. "I say again, I have no use for it, Marco. It will do far more good in your capable hands, than collecting dust above my mantle. Please, accept it."

Marco gave him an unsure look, reluctantly holding the box closer to himself before setting it down in the grass. He gripped the sword by the hilt, making to pull it from the box, but he found that it gave almost no resistance. He held it in his hands for a moment, testing its weight before turning to Reynard confused. "Reynard, is this sword… made of plastic or something? I can't even feel it," he asked.

Reynard let a proud smile creep across his lips as he stepped closer to the sword, tapping on its blade. "I can assure you, Marco, this sword is made of the finest star-tempered steel in Mewni. It's a simple weight nullification spell embedded in the pommel that makes it virtually weightless when held, and extremely hard to damage. Marco looked at him, dumbfounded before giving the sword a few trial swings. He found there was no resistance in the swing, and the swords follow through was only what he gave it with his hands.

"Dude, that is so cool," he breathed. Reynard nodded excitedly before pulling the sheath from the box. "Yes, it is extremely 'really cool', frankly I'm almost too eager to see you use it. But a time and place, I suppose."

"Well, thank you, Reynard. This means a lot," Marco said sincerely, smiling at the noble before him, but Reynard held up his hands submissively. "Nonsense, it's the least I can do after all that you've done for me. Now, let's enjoy the afternoon properly, shall we?"

The two spent the next few hours enjoying the warm sun and the cool breeze that gave the park such a homey feel, and talked about some things Reynard missed about home. He wasn't completely heartbroken, the future wasn't set in stone as he would say, but it was still extremely difficult to adjust so quickly. Marco could only nod, never having seen it himself, but just as sure that there was a time and place for everything.

There was also talk about how all of this came to fruition, stemming from a small idea and rolling into a full blown plan. Reynard had made the suggestion, and to his surprise he was met with nothing but enthusiasm and acceptance. When Marco had helped him chase a cute blonde wreaking havoc on the city, he had no idea it would lead to such a proposal down the road, but he was glad to finally be able to make good on his answer.

After the sun began to set lower against the rolling hills of the park, the two finally collected their things and began making their way to their respective homes. Sure, Reynard could just portal home, but the two found that spending some time just walking together was the most agreeable option.

But as the two rounded the block just outside the entrance of the park, they were met with an unsettling sight, and a great deal of shouting. They ran up to a group of people who were clearly arguing and stepped in, Reynard asking what was to blame for such an outbreak.

A woman dressed in a substantial, poofy green dress pointed her finger at an irritated couple across from them, yelling, "They won't let us park our carriage here! They keep yelling at us to go somewhere else!"

One of the men in question let his arms unfold, pointing right back. "Well, this is a 'no carriage' parking space! It's for cars only, and I don't see you driving, lady!" he shouted back, his wife looking just as insulted. Marco made to step in, but a man wearing clearly out-of-the-times byzantine clothing stepped forward and shoved the arguing man back. "You'll watch your tongue when speaking to my wife! We were here first, and this is the closest we can park without walking a mile!"

"Enough!" Reynard shouted, stepping between the bickering adults and giving the oddly dressed individuals a hostile stare, "This parking is not designated for automobiles only, but we are on borrowed land. You should plan better in the future to avoid such a hassle with our neighbors." Marco stepped behind him and glared at the husband and wife in question, pointing to the carriage.

"If they were here first, which I'm assuming they were, you don't have a right to tell them to beat it if they're following the rules. We're all just people here, treat everyone with the respect you want out of them. Got it?" he snapped, glaring at them. The man slowly nodded, turning to leave before muttering under his breath "Buncha goddamn invaders is what they are."

Marco was about to chase after him, but Reynard grabbed his shoulder, shaking his head stiffly. "A time and place, but the time this is not. I'd hate for you to ruin your chances tomorrow trying to fix once person, rather than everyone."

Marco nodded slowly, folding his arms as they continued walking down the street. "It's not fair that they treat you guys like that just because you're different. You guys work and pay taxes like everyone else."

"That may be true, but our differences are what people like them seek to detest. While we didn't ask to be forced here, we also didn't ask to be permitted here. Until we can show them all of our similarities, their behavior is the price we pay for a home," said Reynard. Marco frowned and looked across the street at two kids playing hopscotch. One seemed to be outfitted in medieval clothing, and other wore casual shorts and a bright yellow shirt.

"I wish more people could ignore it and just get along though. You guys have been through enough," Marco added, "Here's hoping my job helps at least a little."

Reynard gave him a nod, letting out a sliver of a smile as he patted Marco on the back. "I'm sure it will make a world of difference. Have you given any thought as to whose favor you might try to win during the selection?"

Marco shrugged. He honestly hadn't, and by now it was too late to try and decide. "Whoever picks me, I guess. I don't even know who all is involved." Reynard's smile only grew wider at the admission. "Who knows, you may be surprised. After all, I did put in a good word with the Queen," he added under his breath. Before Marco could ask what he meant by that, his watch beeped, signaling it was seven o'clock.

"Aww man! I'm late for dinner with Jackie and Janna! Sorry, Reynard! I gotta split. I'll see you at the selection tomorrow?" he asked as he began making his way across the street. "I wouldn't miss it for the world, Marco!" Reynard called out after him. He watched as Marco ran around the corner, disappearing from view before muttering under his breath, "And what a ceremony it will be."

O - O - O - O - O - O - O - O

Marco burst through the door of Panucci's Pizza, scanning around the restaurant for a telltale green beanie, and a short head of blonde hair streaked with aqua. When he finally found them, he rushed over to the table, sliding in across from Janna and Jackie.

"Hey guys, sorry I'm late. Reynard and I got a little caught up in an argument downtown," he panted. Jackie leaned forward, setting down her menu carefully. "What happened? Another 'incident'?" she asked quietly. Marco nodded, plucking a menu from the tables display and looking it over as he answered.

"Yeah, but we helped them hash it out. Sorta. Two couples were arguing over some parking, the two from here saying it wasn't 'carriage parking' to get 'em to leave." Jackie shook her head, frowning at the idea. "I can't believe some people, you know? Like, they already have it bad enough, why bother making things worse for them?" Janna shrugged and leaned back in her seat, a faraway look in her eyes becoming more apparent. "That's why we have curses. A little silencing spell here, a little necromancy there, viola! No more divides."

Marco rolled his eyes and smiled, setting his menu down and waving to one of the employees. "I feel like making them shut their mouths might be a bit too literal, Janna." She merely shrugged again and shot him a knowing look, commenting, "Hey, you two have your methods, I've got mine."

After the three had ordered and received their fair shares of pizza and sufficiently began munching away, Janna jerked her chin towards Marco. "By the way, what's with the sword?" she mumbled between bites.

"Yeah, I was gonna ask about that," added Jackie. "Did you win it in a contest or something?"

Marco sheepishly looked down at his hip, realizing the butterfly sword was still tucked in its sheath by his side. "Oh, right. Reynard gave it to me as a gift for finishing training. And I guess as a thank you for signing up for the job."

"Pfft, never gives me any presents," Janna muttered with a smile, giving Marco a sideways glance. He shot her a deadpan expression right back and without missing a beat, added "I'll be sure to put in a good word for you," before reaching for another slice. "Same here, Marco," Jackie threw in, "See if he's got any cool knick-knacks from the merpeople."

"Guys, cmon, he's not Santa Claus," Marco laughed as the other two went into hysterics. Janna leaned forward and pointed her slice of pizza at him, looking more inquisitive than normal. "Okay, so riddle me this: What happens if you get picked by a farmer?"

Marco let his smile falter a bit as she continued, his expression sinking. "Or what about a squire? Or-"

"Janna!" Jackie cut in, nudging her arm, "Leave him alone, you know he's getting picked by a knight in shining armor." Marco rolled his eyes at that and slumped a bit in his chair. "No, with my luck I feel like Jannas probably right. Three months of training just so I can be picked by some guy that polishes boots all day."

Jackie shook her head and gave him a small smile, hoping to ease his nerves. "Marco, I know you. And even if I didn't, I'm sure a lot of really high up people are gonna be fighting for the chance to have you. You've worked too hard to be glanced over by everyone there. Trust me." Marco looked up, smiling slightly at the idea as he puffed out his chest proudly.

"Maybe you're right. I mean, Reynard said he put in a good word for me, so there's still a chance I get to do something important, right?"

"That's the spirit," Jackie mused as she finished her slice of pizza, "I'm just trying to get someone who's not too uptight, y'know? But I'm also not too afraid to get my hands dirty." Janna blew a raspberry at that, grinning at the seaside girl in question. "You're totally getting picked by a princess. No doubt about it. The stuffiest one around."

"Not if I have anything to say about it," Jackie shot back, leaning back with a contented smirk. "But seriously, whoever we get, I'm sure it'll be a blast."

Janna raised her hands defensively, looking between the two with a satisfied smile. "Alright alright, maybe you guys deserve someone a little better than a boot polisher. But don't let your heads get too big, alright?"

Marco nodded to that as the three stood up to leave, leaving some bills on the table and giving both of them a sincere smile. "Goodluck tomorrow, Jackie. And Janna?" he began, shooting her an apprehensive smirk, "don't curse anyone until you know how to fix it."

"Duh, that's beginner stuff, Marco," she tossed back as the three departed the restaurant. "But since you were nice enough to cover the bill tonight, I'll be rooting for you to get someone good."

O - O - O - O - O - O - O - O

When Marco awoke the next morning, he quickly sped through his morning routine. A shower, a quick shave, brushing his hair and teeth, all were done before the sun had even graced the city. And by the time it had finally risen, he was already wearing his uniform.

The dress code for the event was formal, with some deciding to wear casual clothes regardless, but Marco saw fit to seize this opportunity by showing what he was made of. Reynard had been kind enough to loan him some light armor, but adding his own flair was what could make or break the deal.

He wore his usual red hoodie under a set of shined plate armor, with hip-secured side armor to match. It didn't offer as much in the way of protection as a full suit of armor, but what it lacked in security, it made up for with mobility. Marco had chosen it earlier in the year, deciding it best to mix both styles of fighting he had spent so long perfecting. A decision that did not go unnoticed, or applauded by Reynard. Marco also had a comfortable and flexible pair of boots to add to his speed, some polished shinguards, and some fingerless gloves for both armed, and unarmed combat. Suffice to say, he felt ready for anything.

When he rushed downstairs, he found his mom and dad already waiting for him, both gussied up in a more formal attire and both very eager to start the day. However, when Marco rounded the banister to greet them, their enthusiasm shifted to a more anxious stance.

"Oh, Marco… you're wearing your armor?" his mother asked softly, taking in his more battle ready appearance. In truth, he had shown them the ensemble before, but something about wearing it on the day of the selection seemed to really bring home the line of work their son was preparing for. Marco rubbed the back of his neck nervously, smiling at them as he spoke.

"Well, yeah. I've been training a lot for this kinda stuff, so it makes sense to dress for the job you want, you know?" His father gave Angie a reassuring, yet nervous nod, stepping forward and resting his hands on Marcos armored shoulders. "Mi amor, we both knew that this was what our son would be doing, we cannot act surprised, no?"

Angie gave in to a small smile, feeling their confidence chip away at her motherly instincts. "I know. It's just so… real now. It's only been three months and now your training is over, and you're about to step out into the real world." She walked over to him and gave him a small hug, Raphael joining in as well.

"I guess I should be happy you're protected, at the very least. We're very proud of you, my little man," she added softly, a few tears threatening to form. Marco hugged his parents back before the three separated, moving outside to begin walking towards the new community. "Well what about you guys?" he asked quickly, smiling elatedly at them as the walked, "You two have put in just as much training as I have, are you nervous?"

"Well, we have not been practicing Karate, or training with the sword, Mijo, but si, we are...pretty nervous," Raphael answered sheepishly. As the odd looking trio passed Britta's Tacos, Marco couldn't help but smile. A little over two years ago, this was the place where he had cemented his friendship with Reynard, and begun the long journey to where he was now. So much had happened since then, yet it still only felt like yesterday.

"It's been a long time coming, dad," Marco began, giving his father a reassuring smile, "but I know you guys are ready. Just be as helpful and amazing as you've always been." Raphael bit his quivering lip before draping his arms over his son, bawling at such an admission. "Si, Mijo! Thank you so mu-hu-hu-huch!"

After that small outburst, the three spent the rest of the walk fantasizing over who'd they'd be working for, and what kind of changes they could make happen in turn. After about half an hour of walking, they finally arrived at the Mewman Refugee Community, or M.R.C. for short. Passing through the massive stone entrance, they were greeted with a sight seen for miles around.

There were many sprawling homes, businesses, and landmarks to fill the circular community, but at its center was the crown jewel of their relocation: Castle Butterfly. Or at least, a recreation of it. When the Mewmans first arrived, it had been erected seemingly overnight, along with the surrounding buildings that gave the community such a homely feel. Most humans in town claimed they must have built it while no one was looking, but Marco knew magic was most likely the culprit.

The replica Castle Butterfly stood higher than most buildings in town, but to Marcos surprise, Reynard said it had been scaled down considerably to avoid imposing on their new neighbors. The castle was nearly the tallest building in the city, it's massive onion domes looming over everything below. Marco always enjoyed taking in its commanding stature, and the way the rooftops seemed to twinkle at night as the aircraft warning lights did their job. But today wasn't the day to take it all in. Rather, it was more about change than anything else. As the three snaked their way through town, steering towards the center of the village, they passed by hundreds of Mewmans who had stopped what they were doing to stare.

In truth, it made Marcos anxiety shoot through the roof , but he knew it wasn't going to get better. He would just have to get used to people coming out to gawk at the humans for the remainder of the morning.

He and his family finally rounded the last block, strolling into the spacious town square at the foot of the castle, and seeing more humans gathered together in a group near the massive steps. As they approached, many of the Mewmans that had gathered around parted ways, letting them regroup with the other humans. There were ecstatic smiles, conflicted stares, and some curious glances, but no one seemed to resent their presence, so that was a plus.

When they had finally made it, Marco scanned the crowd for Jackie, finding her talking to an older woman casually and both dressed well for the occasion. He weaved his way through the crowd, stepping on more than his fair share of toes until they were face to face before the looming castle.

"Hey, Jackie. You look nice," he offered, gesturing to her seafoam green dress and neatly bunned hair. She gave him a genuine smile and motioned back at his armor and sword enthusiastically. "Well look at you! You look like you're about to charge headfirst into war, man. Are you ready?"

Marco nodded eagerly, turning to face the stairs that led to a makeshift podium and stage before the castle. "Yeah, I kinda just want to get it over with already. Do you know when we're supposed to start?" he asked. Jackie shrugged and pointed up at the stage, seeing a few well dressed individuals taking their seats and scanning the crowd of humans eagerly. "Probably right now?" she asked as everyone around them began taking their places. Marco nodded and began stepping back to his family, waving at her as she stood in a line next to the woman she had been talking to earlier.

"Goodluck!" he whispered, earning a quick thumbs up from her as he stood beside his excited parents. Up on stage, he could see Reynard also giving him a thumbs up from his more elevated seat, the nobles around him not sharing quite as much enthusiasm, but still looking rather delighted. After all of the humans finished lining up in a double row before the stage, and the upper class of Mewni had taken their places on stage, three individuals stepped through the castle doors.

The first was a taller woman wearing a blue gown adorned with winged shoulders, her hair done up in a massive bun topped with a golden crown. She looked less than excited, but still somewhat eager to finally begin. The second was a man. He was much shorter than the woman who was obviously Queen Moon, with a long blonde beard split at the end to match his curled mustache. He too wore a large gilded crown, clearly being King River.

The third came as more of a shock to Marco, having only ever seen her once before, over two years ago and terrorizing Echo Creek. She was clearly the Crowned Princess, her hair fanning out below her knees and her dress a stylish, poofy, blue ball gown very similar to the one he had seen when he first saw her. However, much like him, she had grown quite a bit over the last two years, making an old blush christen Marcos cheeks. She was Princess Star Butterfly, and she looked even less excited than Queen Moon to be partaking in 'the selection'.

The crowd of Mewmans in the square immediately began cheering and clapping, with the two lines of humans taking a deep bow. Such a display would have been seen as overkill for people on Earth but here? It was the norm. Queen Moon held up a small golden rod, adorned with a blue heart-shaped jewel at its tip, letting a small ripple of blue, glittering energy flow out over the crown. The cheering stopped, and the humans raised their heads to listen to what she had to say.

"People of Mewni," she began, her voice both regal and commanding as it echoed throughout the square, "It is with great pleasure that I present to you, your applicants for the first ever Selection Process."

The crowd murmured excitedly for a bit, some light applause beginning before Moon raised her hand again. "After the closure of portals to Mewni, I know many of you feel as though this change... may be permanent. Regardless of the situation back home, I think it would be wise for us to stray from our roots for the time being, and experience more of what this new world has to offer. However, there are some that we share this new land with that are less than open to such an idea."

Some members of the crowd whispered quietly among themselves, their words and expressions turning less than excited at the admission given to them. But Moon continued, gesturing to the two rows of humans before her. So, to help build a stronger relationship with the Humans, I have gathered a group of trained individuals meant to introduce us to new ideas, and show us more of their home themselves. Anyone can request a 'guide', but they are on a strict, first come, first serve basis for now. Starting with members of the royal family, members of esteemed social standing, and those who helped in making this possible in the first place."

The nobles around her and the crowd of Mewmans in the square all began applauding for the applicants before them, their excitement returning with gusto as Moon once again held up her hand for silence.

"I am honored that you all have stepped forward so willingly to help aid my people in our time of need. You will be compensated well for your efforts, and your names will forever go down in history as the first Guides of Earth'. While I do hope this change is not a permanent one, I thank you all for everything you have done in preparation, and everything you will do for the future of Mewni. Now, the Selection begin!"

The crowd around them exploded into cheers and applause as the nobles and royals stood, making their way down the castle steps towards the rows of humans. Marco steadied his nerves at the approaching groups, watching as one by one, they made their way closer. He didn't know which of them would be selecting who, but he gave himself a small nod that whoever it was, he would give nothing but one hundred percent.

A tall man beside him was approached by an older gentleman wearing knightly armor, his beard grey and long, but his clothes remarkably clean. "My good sir, I am known as Sir Lavabo of the Wash. I would be honored if you would be my guide, and introduce me to more of your world."

The human beside Marco gave a large smile and shook the knights hand, eagerly answering with, "It would be my genuine pleasure, Sir Lavabo of the Wash."

A woman behind Marco was approached by an older lady who wore an unforgiving frown between her star-marked cheeks. She introduced herself as Lady Etheria Butterfly, who's name Marco recognized as Reynard's grandmother, and asked the woman to be her guide in a tone that was far more hospitable than her expression. The woman happily accepted, and that was that.

One by one, people around Marco were approached, requested, and employed within minutes. There were some nobles who circled the group before asking, but eventually they all began selecting their new guides. Even Jackie was approached by a regal-looking family with enthusiasm.

A young girl, who was clearly their daughter, stepped forward and introduced herself as Princess Penelope Spiderbite. Marco silently wondered why they had such a strange name, but as he began to notice the assortment of red marks and boils on their skin, he came to understand it. Jackie stood confused for a moment, but happily accepted their request, and the four began further introducing themselves in detail.

Marco made to ask his parents how they were holding up, but before he could utter a word, a large, heavily built man stepped up to him. He wore slightly singed clothing with a singed beard to match, both in stark contrast to his eager smile.

"Boy, mah name is Sir Vitruvius Blackard," he began in a heavily Scottish accent, "blacksmith fer the Butterfly family. Ah see yer already armed with such a beaut-ful weapon, so would ya do meh the honor of bein' mah guide?" he asked in a deep, scratchy voice.

Marco was somewhat intimidated by the blacksmith, but given his training, and the status of the man before him, he saw no reason to refuse. "I acce-" he began before a regal voice cut him off.

"Oh, Vitruvius, I'm afraid I must step in," Moon began as she approached the two, accompanied by her husband River, "You see, this young man has already been chosen." Vitruvius gave her an unsure look but nodded nonetheless, bowing slightly before her.

"Of course, yer majesty. May ah ask who selected the lad?" he asked sincerely. Moon waved for him to rise before smiling cordially at Marco and gesturing towards the stage. "We have chosen for him to be Stars guide, actually. I hope you're not offended by our intrusion," she added, resting a hand on the blacksmiths shoulder.

"Not at all, yer majesteh. If the Princess needs a guide, I see none better for such a duteh than this fellow 'ere," Vitruvius jested before bowing respectfully and departing. Once he had moved on, Moon turned back to Marco and smiled at him, calming his screaming nerves slightly.

Remembering his training, he bowed respectfully to Moon and spoke as calmly as he could. "Queen Moon Butterfly, I'm truly honored. My name is Marco Diaz." She nodded slightly, recognizing his introduction, and the lack of a need for her own.

"Marco Diaz," she began, looking him over carefully, "I've heard quite a bit about you from Reynard, and I'm very pleased to see that not all of it was an exaggeration." Marco glanced over her shoulder to see a very excited-looking Reynard giving him a wide grin and two thumbs high in the air. Turning back to Moon, Marco swallowed nervously and nodded.

"Thank you, your majesty, but are you sure you want me?" he asked, holding her gaze. Moon waved it off and smiled, stepping back beside River. "Quite. Given what we've heard, you seem more than capable to… erm, handle our daughter. Star!" she called out to the stage, drawing the attention of a very displeased-looking blonde, "Come down here and meet your guide."

Star rolled her eyes, but when she got a good look at the individual in question, her expression seemed to lift as she made her way down. 'Oh hey, it's that cute boy from before,' she thought to herself. She stepped up to the group and stood beside her mother, looking over Marco in a less than formal way. Marco felt his cheeks burn as he stood at attention before them, remembering their first encounter well. 'What did she mean by handle the princess? Like, put up with the insanity and clean up after her?' he mentally questioned.

Star finally gave him a short smile and met his brown eyes. "My name's Star Butterfly. It's nice to meet you, but despite what my mom says, I don't need a 'guide'," she said with a confident smirk, earning an impatient glare from Moon. The Queen made to comment on her attitude, but Marco stepped in first.

"Actually, we've met before," he began, gesturing up to Reynard, "Remember? When you-"

"ACTUALLY MOM YOU KNOW WHAT I THINK I'LL TAKE HIM, THANKS!" Star cut in, silencing Marco and drawing the eyes of both his family and her own. He gave her a confused look but her eyes immediately seemed to scream 'Please don't say another word', so he kept it to himself. Moon tossed Star a questioning glance, but let it shift into a satisfied smile as she then approached Marcos parents.

Smiling at Angie and Raphael, she bowed cordially and gestured to Marco. "And I've been told that you both are this young man's parents, correct?" Marcos parents nodded, wide-eyed as they returned the bow and introduced themselves. After a formal introduction, River stepped forward and put an arm around both their shoulders.

"Excellent! Would you be so kind as to be our guides? It's only fitting, you know, keep things organized and what not?" he asked with a wide grin. Angie and Raphael shared a quick glance before two beaming smile spread between their cheeks. "OF COURSE!" they returned in unison, matched in their excitement by River.

"Wonderful!" he shouted, pulling them closer into a hug, "Then it's settled, my family and your family, ready to unionize humans and Mewmans!" Moon sighed and pulled River off of the two thrilled humans before stepping back. "Thank you all for your contributions. I look forward to working with you and, erm, 'seeing the sights', as they say. We shall meet tomorrow morning to begin our first day."

Angie and Raphael nodded excitedly as Marco merely stood there, unable to take his eyes off of the blonde princess before him. It had been over two years, but up close he really took notice of how much she had changed. Which sufficed to say, Star shared in the daunting revelation. The skinny boy she had terrorized back when she snuck to Earth had certainly grown, both in stature and physique. 'And look at that sword,' she thought to herself, 'how'd he get his hands on an Butterfly heirloom like that? It looks a lot like... No way Reynard gave it to him.' But before either of them could stare for too long, Moon and River bowed cordially and began making their way towards the castle.

With one final smirk, Star grinned at Marco and turned on her heels to follow, skipping happily as she went. Marco blushed profusely, but luckily it went unnoticed by his parents. "Mijo!" his father shouted excitedly, pulling him into a bone crushing hug despite his plate armor, "Look at us! Chosen by the very top of the community! Can you believe it?"

"I uh…" Marco stammered before his mother cut in, joining them in the hug. "Oh my stars this is amazing! We get to show the King and Queen of Mewni around, and you!" she shouted excitedly as she ruffled Marcos hair, "you get to guide the Princess! How amazing is that?"

Marco looked back up to the stage as Reynard took his seat among the nobles, with Queen Moon concluding the ceremony. "Again, I thank you all for what you're doing for us. Words alone can't repay this kindness. Tomorrow, we will begin as you see fit, and hopefully, we can all take our first steps towards the future of a better Earth and Mewni!"

The crowds around her all cheered excitedly as the 'selection' drew to a close, groups of humans making their way back home and groups of Mewmans stepping aside to thank and congratulate them. Marco watched as the royal family headed through the looming castle doors, a satisfied grin among a wreath of blonde hair catching his eye.

"I guess we'll see," he finally said, hugging his family back. Tomorrow showed promise, and a reasonable chance for mayhem. How bad could it be?


AUTHORS NOTE

Heyo! RonaldReagan coming to you...not so live, but still! We hope you all are as thrilled as we are for the story to continue! Honestly, I'm in love with it so far, and I can't wait to keep at it! Leave a review down below with thoughts, suggestions, or comments, or PM myself or LordCornwalis! That being said, we'll see you all next time! BUH BYYYEEE!

~Mr. Ronald Reagan

~Lord Cornwalis