Eternally Never Yours

by EchoEternal

Slash-fic, M/M. A hopeless romantic wonders if he'll ever have what it takes to end a tedious charade. Tired of the lies and secrets, he writes to his beloved about what they can never have. From there, the rest spirals out of his control. Rated T, just in case.

48. Chapter 48

Did anyone want a chapter full of sugary sweet gushy moments with warm fuzzy feelings? Because this chapter probably has a lot of that.

Longer than intended (shocking, I know), it's time again for some more Bowsario fluff! Enjoy.

...

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[Mario]

Strangely enough, I think this was the first time that I've been inside of Junior's room.

It certainly stood out from the rest of Bowser's Castle: gold floor tiles, bright green walls, a sky blue ceiling, and toys littered all across the room. There was a wooden toy train that had a few tracks, with the most impressive one being set up around the room itself. Building blocks were stacked up into different shapes that reminded me of the castle's layout. There were at least three treasure chests filled with even more toys in them. There were some familiar designs on his walls, but there were also scribbles from paint and graffiti that I'm imagining Junior added. His shelves and desks were alternating between red and orange. Even the ceiling had cute clouds along it.

Junior bounced onto his bed, knocking over a few stuffed animals, and I spotted one of myself next to one of Bowser. Pushing past a Thwomp shaped pillow near the end, he climbed for his desk and grabbed some papers from the shelf above it.

"Son, I could've gotten those for you," offered Bowser.

"Hush, they're new!"

"Oh, ok."

Near a desk, Bowser tugged out a stool that I wasn't sure was big enough for him, but apparently it was sturdy enough for his weight. He must have made sure of then when he bought them. Tugging out another next to him, he patted it and smirked at me.

As I sat down beside him, Junior hurried across the room, pushing a few trains and trucks back against the wall before running past them. He tugged a canvas from the corner and pushed it in front of his computer desk.

"Ok! I've got a bunch of cool paintings and drawings that I made up!" He paused and pointed to me. "And no, Mario, these didn't mess up an island or anything before!"

"Ah, that's…good?" I glanced to Bowser, who was stifling laughter.

"Now, there are a few here, but we won't take too long going over all of them." He twiddled his fingers together. "They're just doodles and stuff."

"Aw, come on, Junior!" Bowser sat forward. "Your art is great!"

"You've always told me that, Papa."

"Because it's always true!" He leaned over to me. "And when Mario tells you so, then you'll know that I'm right!"

"Oh, yeah!" I forced up a grin. "Can't wait to see what you've got, Junior!" Glancing over to Bowser, he winked at me and shifted back upright.

"Be honest, Mario," protested Junior. "Dad put you up to all of that, didn't he?"

"What?!" Bowser folded his arms together. "I did no such thing!"

"Uh-huh, sure you didn't." Junior rolled his eyes, as he set up his canvas.

"It's true!"

"Fine."

Defeated and deflated, Bowser slouched and sank in his seat, as I stifled my laughter this time. Junior shuffled his papers, and propped them up before turning to us.

"First up is what I made up today," he introduced. "It's a new robot to use!"

"Not another one," muttered Bowser.

As Junior flipped the paper over, I gawked at his very detailed portrait of green and gray robot. The center held Bowser's insignia, the work had two clawed arms that could also turn into drills, and the bottom had feet with wheels on them, which could apparently launch as explosives. While his coloring went outside of the lines, he did a disturbingly well-planned schematic.

"See, there's a space here where I can put myself and the Junior Clown Car," pointed out Junior, tapping at the top of the robot. "And then I control it from the top! I was thinking about maybe giving it a hammer for an extra weapon, and have your Bowser face open up for missiles to come out of it!"

"Right, right," observed Bowser. "It's very good, Junior…" He scratched behind his head. "But, um…what is for?"

"Because robots are awesome," insisted Junior. "We should have someone build this!"

"Sure, maybe, that could happen," agreed Bowser. I twisted around to him, to which he very barely shook his head to me, and rubbed his index finger and thumb together.

"What do you think, Mario?"

"Uh, me?" Kicking my feet around a bit, I stared at the drawing. "Well, ah, it's very incredibly detailed. Kind of scary—"

"Robots have to be," asserted Junior. "They have to be huge, strong, powerful, and scare anyone that threatens whoever you care about!"

"Um…sure, that makes sense." I slowly nodded. "You have an extraordinary eye for details, Junior."

"Ha!" Bowser folded his arms behind his head. "Told you he'd love them."

"That was just the first one, Dad," complained Junior. "And I put a lot of effort into it, so of course he did!"

"Isn't it usually the other way around…?"

"That's only online, Dad."

"Oh, right, got it."

"Ok, so, that was my first sketch to share." Sketch?! "So, that's part of the good pile. Next is…check it out! Ninja costume!"

My mouth dropped open again, as Junior showed off a self-portrait in ninja garb. Bowser inhaled and held his breath, while I studied the details. Sure, the colors and lines were a bit jagged and wavy, but it was perfectly Junior in a bright green and white ninja outfit. He even had a katana in one hand, and a kunai in the other, with shuriken decorating the space around him. He even painted a forest setting around him!

"See that? I think I would make a really, really cool ninja!"

"Son, we have Koopas that can do it for you," insisted Bowser. "You're a prince."

"But look at how cool this one is, Papa!" Junior pointed and tapped on his painting. "I could be a ninja prince! Wouldn't that be so cool?!"

"Yes…very cool," murmured Bowser.

"It's an excellent painting," I commented, "and I love the shading you gave to the weaponry that seems like it's capturing your light source." I pointed at the trees. "And the forest is really wonderful, great background work!"

"Two for the good pile!" Bowser cheered. "And that's Mario helping rate these, so you can't just dismiss it as your Dad calling it cool."

"You set him up to do that…"

"I did not!"

"This third one is just a pirate outfit that I designed," shared Junior, as he plucked the next painting out. "I think that would also be cool to be!"

It was a full ensemble outfit that would be perfect for Junior, a swashbuckler with a cutlass over the sea. Though this one was mostly focused on his pirate's trench coat, boots, and sword, he had a few doodles of himself against the side, showcasing him in the outfit and on a boat like the xebec.

"Wait, ninja or pirate?" Bowser rubbed his chin. "Which did you want to be?"

"Both, Papa! It's called dual classing," enlightened Junior. "Or even triple classing, because I'd be a prince too! So, that's ninja pirate prince!"

"With a Clown Car inside of a robot," piled on Bowser, as he tugged at his hair and horns.

"Yeah!" He pulled out his Magic Paintbrush from the side of the desk. "And I'd have magic! And art skills!" He grinned. "That would make me a ninja pirate wizard artist prince, riding two robots!"

"That's quite a rounded set of skills you planned for yourself," I complimented. Slowly turning my head to Bowser, he shrugged to my widened eyes.

"Bet I could beat anyone that would threaten us!"

"You sure could, Junior…"

"Ok, so, Mario liked that one too, so that's more for the good pile," he determined. "Huh. Maybe these are pretty good."

"Told you so twice over!"

"Be quiet, Papa!" Junior pulled out his fourth sheet. "This one is a drawing with us!"

My shoulders relaxed as I smiled at the drawing. It was fairly simple, just the three of us in the picture, with Junior riding on Bowser's head with my cap on, and Bowser's arms around me. Glancing to Bowser, I rolled my eyes after spotting his broad beam.

"That one automatically goes into the good pile!"

"It's adorable," I added.

"Yeah, I figured you guys would like that one," teased Junior. "The rest are pretty simple."

After Junior showcased another painting and three more drawings, including a tennis match and a baseball game, Bowser and I applauded and praised the rest of his work. He picked up all of his works and neatly stacked them back on his desk.

"Thanks for coming to Junior's art show, everyone!" He giggled and bowed. "Ok, so, now what do we do?"

"Hmm." Bowser tapped at his cheek. "Well, the boring father-son hangout game is just a simple game of catch."

"Those can be fun," mumbled Junior.

"Oh yeah? Last time it wasn't 'cool,' as I recall."

"You must be thinking of something else."

"Yeah, must be."

"Wait!" Junior bounced up and down. "Oh! Oh! Great idea! Let's have a race!"

"As in a kart race?" I tilted my head.

"Yes!"

"Junior, we don't have a proper track set up right now," shot down Bowser. "Plus, the karts that we have stored here are kind of limited—"

"Please?" Junior clasped his hands together. "Please Papa, please? Mario's here too, it'll be fun!"

"Even if it's just a small ride, it might be nice," I offered.

"Don't encourage him," muttered Bowser.

"We have a test track set, right?!" Junior bounced around again. "That works, it's just a quick oval, come on!"

"Ugh…fine, fine," surrendered Bowser. "Two laps though, not three. And we're not using items."

"Kart racing without items is so dull though," protested Junior. He glanced up at his father, who put his hands on his hips and tapped his foot. "Um. Sure, you got it, Dad!"

"Good. Come on, let's see which karts we have to work with."

"Whoo!"

Bowser trudged out of Junior's room, as his son grabbed at my hand and pulled me along after the two, practically skipping with his steps.

As we ventured downstairs and across the halls, we passed a few soldiers that observed us going past. One Koopa waved while a Magikoopa shoved his hand down. Three Goombas chattered excitedly as we went by. A Lakitu scratched his head, but seemed to float past on his own business. Two Shy Guys watched, looking at one another, and then back at us, repeating it several times until we were out of sight. Another two Koopas and a Goomba narrowed their gazes on us, but didn't react much otherwise.

"Your troops seem to be acting differently," I murmured as we made our way through the western corridors.

"Looks like it," agreed Bowser. "Probably confused about our latest assault on Peach's Castle and nearby settlements."

"Everyone talked about how confusing that was," chimed in Junior. "They even heard that Mario commanded an attack!"

"No, that's not quite…" I rubbed behind my neck. "Well…"

"Don't worry about that Junior, ok?" Bowser glanced back to us. "All that you need to worry about is that everyone's safe."

Junior nodded as Bowser looked to me before turning back around. He checked up at me, and we stared quietly at one another. Squeezing my hand a bit, Junior smiled a little as he pulled us onward after Bowser.

Another four minutes of trekking across the castle and we made it to what I guessed served as a type of vehicle garage for Bowser.

"Oh, Papa!" Junior dashed away from me, and hurried over to a large purple muscle car. "We should take this one out! I never got to ride on it!"

"Absolutely not," rejected Bowser. "The Koopa Chase just got rebuilt not that long ago, and I'm not having it totaled just to show off to Mario." He blinked and blushed a bit. "Uh, to you, son. To play around—you know what I mean!"

"You don't need a car to show off to me," I teased. A bit darker, I added, "Especially one that you used as you threw kick bombs at my friends and I."

"Can we not go down bad memory lane?" Bowser squished his hand against his eyes. "I'm sorry. It's just a car now."

"That stores bombs still, right?"

"Not helping, Junior." He dragged his hand down. "How about you hunt down the karts, son?"

"They're right there."

"Where? Oh, there, you're right."

A few spots down waited a few go-karts that Bowser and Junior have used in past racing tournaments. Bowser folded his arms, studying the few that he held.

"Ok, let's see…we've got the Flame Flyer, the Tyrant, the Hurricane…" Bowser shook his head. "Those are all worthless to either of you; they're built only for bigger racers like me."

"That's the old Flame Flyer?" I twisted my mustache.

"Yep, original model."

"Didn't you keep any of the more recent karts, Papa?"

"No, those get stored away with other karts that can be easily modified for anyone using them," clarified Bowser. "The only new karts we have here are the classic Pipe Frames, but those are two that match our needs Junior, not Mario's."

"It's no big deal," I eased. "I can just watch you two."

"No way!" Junior flailed his arms. "We all need to race, it's more fun!"

"Watching can be—"

"What about these two?" Junior pointed at karts with platforms on their backs.

"Those?" Bowser shrugged. "Well, that's an early Bullet Blaster, which was built for you, son." He shook his head. "Mario or I would break that in seconds."

"But what about yours?"

"Well, sure, the Koopa King would work." Bowser folded his arms. "But then that's going to be for two of us, while the third racer is stuck alone, and that's not really fair." He shrugged. "Plus, that leaves one person to do the driving, and the other just kind of hangs on, unless we switch mid-race, but that's worthless for how short of a match we'll have."

"Mario doesn't really fit into any of the other karts," realized Junior. "Papa, you two have to use this one."

"Huh?" Bowser glanced at me, but then brushed his hair back. "No, son, that's not fair. You can't race both of us."

"Why not?" Junior grinned. "Scared that I'll beat you both easy on a practice course?"

"Hey, that's not the problem, you little hotshot," joked Bowser. "But I don't want you to feel ganged up on, son."

"Papa, it's fine because it's good practice," insisted Junior. "Besides, I was going to make both of you eat my dust either way. This just makes it easier!"

"Ok, now you're getting creamed," taunted Bowser.

"Oh! You promised snacks before!"

"Huh?" Bowser scratched his head. "Wait. Something to eat, sure, but—"

"Let's have ice cream!"

"Son…"

"Why not?" Bowser lowered his eyes at me. "What? That sounds fine."

"You don't know how bad his sugar rushes get," muttered Bowser.

"They're not that bad, Papa." Junior folded his arms. "You shouldn't have brought it up!"

"Are you picking at my poor word choice?"

"Yup!"

"Ah…that's fair," relented Bowser. "Fine, we'll raid a kitchen after the race."

"Yahoo!"

"…A kitchen?"

"Yeah, I've got more than one." Bowser paused. "…Doesn't Peach?"

"To my knowledge, no."

"Oh." Bowser scratched behind his head. "Well, I eat a lot and she's basically a stick, so, oh well to that."

"That's not nice—"

"Junior, pick a kart and get ready to lose to us," fired off Bowser. "Mario, hop aboard and let's roll!"

While Bowser went to grab a remote to open the garage, I climbed onto the Koopa King kart's platform, stepping over the metal emblem and gripping the handlebar. Junior sped by in his green customized Pipe Frame, waving as he drove past. I waved back as Bowser hurried over and hopped into the driver's seat.

"Been a while since we used these karts," reminisced Bowser. "You miss teaming up?"

"Haven't we been doing that lately?" I smirked as he rolled his eyes and pulled the kart forward.

"Teaming up in sports is completely different," mocked Bowser. "Lower stakes, competitive natures, and simple goals." He glanced back and grinned. "Plus, more opportunity for us to work together without having to explain ourselves."

"Is that all?"

"Of course." His eyes lowered. "Oh, and any sport that lets me look you over is always a plus." Bowser bounced his eyebrows as I shook my head.

"There it is."

"Can you really blame me?" He drummed at the steering wheel. "Maybe we should have played a tennis match instead…"

A horn honked from outside and Bowser twisted back around, driving the kart out to the track. It was pretty simple in design: a small yet long oval, mostly nothing like the circuits we use. Then again, Bowser usually recreated raceways based on his castle or morphed it into a track when he was short on time.

Cruising up to the starting line, Junior repositioned himself as Bowser pulled forward.

"Get ready to get crushed, Dad!"

"Just remember you were asking for this, Junior!" He checked back and winked to me. "Ready?"

"Sure."

"Great!" Junior paused. "Wait, we didn't get a Lakitu. Who counts us down?"

"Mario, go ahead!"

"What?! But he's with you!"

"Too bad."

"Um, ok. Three…" I glanced down to Junior as he scrambled to get ready. "Two…" Both karts came back to life after that as I tightened my grip. "One…go!"

In an instant, Junior's kart rocketed off along the track, zipping quickly away from us. Bowser drove after him, letting his speed do the work to catch up.

Though he was driving after Junior, Bowser's posture seemed more relaxed than his usual racing demeanor. Even as we drifted along the first turn, we didn't build a lot of speed to catch his son.

"So," he started up, keeping his focus on the road, "about what we talked about on the roof, my suggestion for a date."

"Yes?"

"Well, earlier, I was thinking about taking you out somewhere in one of the other territories," elucidated Bowser. "But, after what we pulled, I think that might not be the best course to take."

"Right."

"So, instead, how about we go somewhere not too far from my castle? It's still technically part of it, or I own it, but it's just a little distance away." He checked back to me, raising an eyebrow. "Would tomorrow work out for you?"

"Hm, you know, my schedule might be a bit full," I teased. Bowser swerved the kart around, shaking me around. "Hey!"

"Whoops, thought I spotted an oil slick." He leaned back to look at me again. "But look at you, moving those legs around to keep your balance."

"Watch the road, not me."

"It's a straight, we're fine."

"Your son is going to be disappointed if you make throwing the race obvious."

"Grumpy, grumpy," mocked Bowser. "Ok, hold on."

His foot slammed against the pedal and our speed gradually built up. Junior glanced behind him and jumped as we approached. He quickly drifted his kart for the turn, building a mini turbo slide.

Releasing into the turn, Junior rocketed away for the starting line, while Bowser stared after him.

"Quick little kid, huh?" Bowser shrugged. "Never was one for acceleration over speed."

"It's better to blend everything together."

"Always the guy in the middle," teased Bowser. "So, we were planning?"

"Are you still on about the date?"

"Absolutely." We passed over the starting line as he turned back to grin. "You're too cute, and I can't restrain myself."

"How endearing." I leaned down against the handlebar. "You know what? I may just have an opening for you."

"Just one?"

"Bowser."

"What?"

He bounced his eyebrows as he swung back around for the turn, laughing as he drove around it. After clearing it though, he tilted back to me.

"Weren't you supposed to take a turn?"

"Thought you weren't trying to win." I grinned.

"Oho, and they call me the cocky one!" Though he didn't look back, he wagged a finger at me. "You're lucky we're dating and you're handsome, or I'd make you."

"Honestly, I was expecting you to after that remark."

"Yeah, well…" Bowser shrugged. "I'm not trying to win."

"Ha!"

"Hush up and hold on."

Tightening my grip again, Bowser forced the Koopa King onward, nearing Junior. His son eyed us and sped away through the racetrack's bend once again, sliding away with a quick boost.

Junior swung his kart around as he crossed the finish line, and waited as Bowser pulled up.

"Ok, fine, you beat your old man," grumbled Bowser. "Happy?"

"You made it too easy," ridiculed Junior. "And you just flirted with Mario the whole time."

"What?!" Bowser blushed as peeked back at me. "No! That's completely not true!"

"Mario?"

"Right on the money."

"I knew it."

"Hey!" Twisting back to me, Bowser glared. "That's treason!"

"Telling the truth?"

"Yes!"

"Oh, sorry." I turned back to Junior. He smirked as I deadpanned, "Bowser absolutely did not flirt and tease me the entire race."

"Guess I instantly believe you," joined in Junior.

"Maybe we don't get dessert after all," threatened Bowser.

"Uh, actually, whoo! I beat Papa and Mario, yeah!" Junior drove his kart back into the castle. "It was completely not easy at all!"

"You two are too dangerous together," declared Bowser. "I'm keeping you separate from now on."

"Please, you would never."

"If I really wanted to, I definitely could!" He puffed out his cheek as I lowered my eyes at him. "…Ok, fine, you're right." I laughed as he snorted, driving the kart back in. "Honestly, I'm glad you two are bonding. Even if it's against me."

"Especially because it's against you."

"Ok, ease up."

"Ha! Sorry."

Bringing the karts back in, Bowser picked up Junior and placed him on his shoulder. He took my hand and guided me back through the castle. We passed by a pair of Rexes that smiled as we went by, and a Spike that didn't bat an eye.

Reaching one of the kitchens, we wandered a bit in, as three chefs cooked at their stations. The Koopa turned and jumped, bumping into a stew pot and scrambled to keep it steady.

"Lord King Bowser, sir!" She saluted. "We, uh, we weren't expecting you!"

Waving to the other two, the Shy Guy stopped decorating a cake, while Hammer Bro. fumbled with a skillet. A Blooper in a chef's hat poked out from a pantry and waved, but then saluted with the others.

"Um…at ease?" Bowser set Junior down as the four bakers relaxed. "We're just here to swipe some snacks, nothing important."

"Do you want me to grab you something from here?" The Blooper pointed behind him. "We're stocked pretty well."

"Nah, we'll just grab from the fridge."

"Of course. Enjoy, sire!"

Bowser nodded as he turned away from the group, massaging his temples as we moved to the refrigerator. It was metallic silver, much larger than any I've seen lately, but beyond that, nothing overtly fancy. He pulled the doors open, as a cool mist drifted from within.

"All right, Junior, we've got a few dessert options in here." Bowser scanned the fridge and freezer. "So, Mario and I will share a fruit parfait, and you can have either an icicle pop, a snow cone, or chocolate cake." He glanced down as his son squeezed past him. "Which do you want, son?"

"Uh, all three, duh."

"Hold on, Junior."

Before Bowser could make a move, Junior snatched all three desserts, cackling as he mashed them together, and rushed from the room. Bowser gawked as his son disappeared, and I scratched my head at the boy's remarkable speed.

"…My son is going to have a heart attack before he ever inherits the throne," murmured Bowser.

"Kids are pretty sturdy," I offered. "Shall we?"

"Sure."

He scooped up a pair of spoons and I spotted two stools beneath a table. We sat as he set the fruit parfait out, and passed me a spoon.

"Care to tell me more about your special dating spot?" I scooped out a little whipped cream and yogurt.

"Nope, that's a secret until tomorrow!" Bowser picked at a banana and added a piece to his scoop. Shoving it into his mouth as I reached in for more, he watched as I took a bit of orange. "You want the first cherry? The second one is buried in."

"You can take it, if you want."

"Here, I'll feed you this one, but then you have to feed me the next one." He scooped it out and held it on his spoon. "Come on, this is a cute couples' tradition or whatever. Do it."

"Fine, fine."

I leaned in as he guided his spoon into my mouth, and I sucked in the cherry. Pulling back and chewing the cherry, I raised an eyebrow as he grinned to me.

"How's it taste?"

"Like it has some Bowser drool on it," I mocked and he chuckled. "It's sweet. The whole dish is rich."

"My chefs practice plenty and are pretty good at their craft." He glanced back at the four working together on the cake, stacking it higher. It swayed and they panicked as they tried to balance it out. "…Most days, anyway."

"Ah." I took some of the banana with a bit of mango and cream. "So, not even a hint?"

"Nothing," teased Bowser. He left his spoon in his mouth and hummed. "Tastes just like Mario now…"

"You're a complete goofball."

"But I'm your goofball."

"Yes you are."

"Perfect." He tugged his spoon out. "That makes this taste sweeter."

"So you claim."

"Honestly, tomorrow isn't going to be anywhere too exciting," admitted Bowser. "It's just a nice spot to relax and roam for a bit. But it looks nice, so, I wanted to share that with you."

"Aw, you're almost as sweet as this," I joked. "Wait, there's ice cream with the yogurt?"

"Yeah."

"What…?"

"It's delicious."

"I'm sure…" Scooping some out, I took a bite. "Mm, it is…!"

"Ha, told you." Bowser leaned against his hand, lowering his gaze as he grinned. "You're so cute."

"So you've told me." I dipped my spoon on the whipped cream and tapped a bit on his nose.

"Hey."

"Now you're sweeter too."

"Ok, now you've done it. Big bad boss Bowser's back!" He slipped his spoon in and spun it around the cream. Leaning over, he tapped it on my nose and my cheeks. "There, now you're a properly decorated treat."

"That's fair," I caved. "Oh, you're right, there's the other cherry." I picked it out and held it up for him. "Ready?"

"Always."

Gently, I pushed it into his mouth and held it there for a moment. He moaned a bit as his hand went over mine, and brushed his leg along my thigh. Slowly, Bowser pulled back, licking at his lips.

"Mario saliva tastes better than Bowser drool," he joked, and I laughed.

It didn't take much longer before we finished off the delicious treat; a much needed cool-down. Bowser licked at his nose, clearing the cream on it. My hand went up for my face, but his came and laced our fingers together.

"Not so fast," he intervened. "I want to do the other silly couple cliché."

"Which one is that?"

With a toothy grin as he lowered his eyes, he leaned in and pressed his lips against mine. His tongue slipped out and licked at my mustache and top lip. A moan escaped me, and my face burned as Bowser pressed forward, his sweetened breath mixing with mine. Sliding my tongue against his, I ran it onto his lips, still a bit sticky but mostly wet. My hand tightened in his, and he squeezed back, pulling me closer into him.

Parting just slightly, he licked at me again and rubbed just a little below my chin. He leaned around to my left cheek, planting a kiss while licking at me. As Bowser moved his face past mine, I kissed his nose, earning a bubbling smile, as he kissed at my right cheek and licked away the last of the cream.

Slowly, practically prying himself back from me, he straightened up and beamed through his bright red cheeks.

"Had that in my head as soon as I spotted the fruit parfait," confessed Bowser.

"Somehow, that doesn't surprise me," I teased.

"This is on you for being irresistible," he rallied back. "Quit it."

"You first."

"Never."

"Then…"

Scooping my face closer to his, I neared him, but hesitated as my eyes drifted past his cheek. The chefs had stopped working on their cake, as it wobbled around. They were too busy watching us, as the Koopa bounced excitedly waving her hands and pointing, while the Blooper and the Shy Guy seemed to swing one another's hands.

Bowser blinked, followed my gaze, and exhaled through his teeth. Jolting out of their daze, the chefs recovered in time to watch as their cake tumbled across the counters and splattered over them.

"Uh—"

"Our apologies, you highnesses," quickly shouted the Koopa chef, "we'll clean it!" She paused as the Hammer Bro. fumbled around grabbing rags and paper towels. "Ah! I mean, your highness and sir! Or, uh, well—"

"Don't worry about it," decided Bowser. "I'll just toss these in the sink—"

"Leave it, we'll get it," called the Shy Guy. "Take care, sires!"

"Right."

Still blushing, Bowser kept his hand in mine as he guided me from the kitchen. My face burned as I tugged my cap lower with my free hand.

"Sorry."

"That's ok, it's not new," I reassured.

"Yeah, but…"

"The more often it happens, the faster we get used to it and stop caring," I suggested.

"True." Bowser blinked. A slow grin formed onto his face and he lifted an eyebrow as he gazed down to me. "More often, huh?" He chuckled as I covered my face with my hand. "So, should we arrange for daily smooching sessions in the throne room, the main hall, or the courtyard?"

"None of the above!" I groaned, as he laughed harder.

"Admit it, that's your new fantasy."

"Sounds like it just became yours!"

"Yep, you're right."

"Bowser!"

"Yes, Mario?"

"Oh…" Words failed me as he laughed again, and tugged me closer to him.

"It's ok, I know you love me."

"…I do."

"Good, you better." He grinned, pushed my cap up, and planted a kiss against my head. "Because I know I love you too."

My heart fluttered at his reassurance, same as always. I tugged him closer to me, earning a little wagging from his tail and another squeeze against my hand. We ignored a couple of Boos that cackled as we passed, and made our way upstairs.

Twisting around, Bowser picked up both of my hands into his and swayed them around as he backed down the hall, keeping his eyes on mine, and we giggled as we ambled through. He glanced behind him as he stumbled a bit, and my hands went around his waist to keep him balanced. Turning back around, he beamed to me, but then jumped up.

"Hang on." He walked off further up the corridor. "I better make sure Junior isn't sick beyond belief."

As he approached Junior's door, Bowser leaned in, and listened. He knocked at the door, and it flung open.

"Um—"

"Hi Papa!" Junior poked out and waved to me. "Hi Mario!"

"Son—"

"Today was awesome!" He jumped up and down rather quickly. "Racing was great, Mario was funny, and the desserts were amazing!"

"That's great—"

"I'm going to paint a lot more and play a bunch of games and maybe even practice more fireballs!"

"Not in your room—"

"Out the window!"

"Not this high up—"

"Ok, something else then!" Junior bounced excitedly and jumped back into his room. "Thanks Papa, goodnight!" He darted back out and waved. "Goodnight to you too, Mario! It was fun!"

"Goodnight…?"

Barely waving as he sped back in, I watched as Bowser gawked at the door slammed in his face. Hesitating and staring at it for another minute, he shook his head and turned back to me as I walked over.

"Is he ok?"

"Somehow, I think he'll regret it tomorrow," determined Bowser. "But, that's something I can't fix right now."

"Are you sure?"

"Nothing new, he'll live," assured Bowser. "As for you and I, however…"

His hands were around my waist as he pushed me back towards his room. Wiggling his fingers around me, I laughed as he tickled at me. I barely heard the bedroom door creak as we entered, and he backed me over to the bed.

Flopping back onto it, I scooted back as he leaned over me, sliding his hands on either side of me.

"Today started off not too great, but by now, it's absolutely fantastic," declared Bowser. "And I owe that all to you."

"Oh, I don't deserve all the credit—"

"Definitely most of it," insisted Bowser. He drooped closer and kissed my nose. "Thank you. Thank you so very much."

"You're welcome. My pleasure."

As his face repositioned toward mine, he pulled back and covered his mouth. I laughed as he failed to stifle his yawn.

"Maybe save the rest for tomorrow," I suggested.

"No, no, I've got…a little more in me," tried Bowser, forcing his lips closed until the next yawn came out.

"Come on, bed," I persisted, and tugged him down onto it. "You've planned the date for tomorrow, so anything else can wait until then."

"Aw…fine."

Crawling over the bed, he slipped his tail up my waist and body as he passed, while I climbed back off the bed. I took off my gloves and hat, placing them on the nightstand, and kicked off my boots. Unbuttoning my overalls, I slid the straps off as I turned around. Bowser's eyes were drooping shut, but he still faced me.

"What?"

"Just enjoying the show…"

Rolling my eyes, I lobbed a pillow at him. After I finished changing, I climbed into bed, checking under the blankets to make sure Bowser took off his armbands.

"Looking for something…?"

"Hush up and sleep."

"Yes, sir…"

Dropping the blankets, I glared at him as his head hit the pillow. His eyes blinked a few times, as he stared across at me. Moving closer into him, his lips curled up as I leaned against him, and his body relaxed, gently drifting off. My arm went around his shoulder, and he slid down a bit, reaching across my chest.

Gradually, I leaned back against the pillows as well, falling asleep to the rhythm of his steady breathing.

---

[Bowser]

As it turned out, Junior did get sick, only it took until the early morning to finally come through. After spending until dawn caring for him, Mario took over.

A yawn escaped me as I sat back on my throne.

Part of me wanted to be anywhere else, but my presence was requested for detailing mission plans for the Skyline defenses.

A Koopatrol in a dark indigo set of armor entered the throne room, followed by two Swoopers, a Paratroopa, and a Paragoomba. The four waited in the back while the Koopatrol bowed, and came to my throne.

"Just so we're clear," I started, "it's highly likely that we will be losing the Skyline fortress."

"We had the same suspicion, sire," admitted the Koopatrol. Indigo armor…his movement can be a bit silent, weirdly so. "All the same, we have plans to do our utmost." That clipboard he's writing on…it's got a little shuriken on the back…

"You're Koopornis, right?"

"I…yes, that is me, milord." The Koopatrol hesitated a moment, and judging by his shifting, I think that I threw him off. "How did you know?"

"Can't really recall many Koopatrol in indigo specifically that are also in charge of overseeing army regulatory matters," I admitted. "Also, you're a bit lacking in some knighthood works, but you're fairly talented in alternative operatons." I scratched my head. "Think I've heard Ninji compliment exceeding their abilities several times."

"That's…correct, Lord Bowser." He fidgeted, still struggling to maintain a profession posture or whatever he was trying to remain uptight over. "I…does this displease you?"

"Not really," I determined. "In fact, it's probably helpful to be multi-faceted or capable of dual classing."

"…Dual…classing…?"

"Ah, that's something my son mentioned the other day." I shook my head. "We're getting carried away though."

"My apologies!" He cleared his throat and straightened up again. "Most of the forces for the Skyline seem at the ready to defend it—"

"Do any of them want to pull out?"

"Huh?" Koopornis shook his head. "No, milord, they're ready to fight."

"Oh."

"Our key problem though is that we're not sure who you're sending to be our final safeguard for the fortress." He studied his notes and glanced back up. "We were never assigned our guard, similar to the Mountains, though the Koopalings had stepped in for that."

"When they shouldn't have," I murmured. "What happened to the Whomp King? He was supposed to take position there."

"They're still working on refreshing him from a hefty fall he suffered injuries from a few months ago," he reported. "He's not quite capable of walking at present, and therefore cannot effectively slam down on his enemies." He tapped at his pen. "Admittedly, sire, I don't think he would be the best option at handling the likes of Princess Peach or her allies, considering that they're very mobile."

"No, you've got a point." I scratched at my head. "Are you sure we can hold it?"

"We're ready to do all you need, sire," called one of the Swoopers in the back.

"Yeah, we heard that you went to hell going for the Koopalings," chimed in the Paragoomba. "But you clobbered Peach's forces and still managed to bring them back!"

"Everyone keeps muttering about how they're not sure of your plans," revealed the Koopa Paratroopa, "but we're really excited to keep going for you, sir! You've kept the Koopalings around, so we'll keep proudly supporting you!"

My heart jumped up a bit. I've longed to hear Koopas returning their support to me, and we noticed yesterday that their spirits seemed up, but…still…

"Sire?"

"Right, uh, defenses. Boss to safeguard." My nails dug at the throne's arm. "Um. How about King Bob-omb?"

"Ah, he might actually work out," concurred Koopornis. "Launching Peach and her friends from the fortress or even the skies would be great, and he's got quite the throwing arms." He clicked his pen and tilted his head. "…How did a Bob-omb even get those?"

"No idea, never asked the guy," I admitted. "But, uh, I'm not sure about—"

"Not to worry, sire, I'll have someone send for him on the double." He nodded to his retinue near the door. "We'll continue finalizing preparations for you, and defend the Skyline, milord." He bowed as he marched to leave. "Have you any other needs of us, Lord Bowser?"

"Um. No, that…that will be all."

"Thank you, sire."

They shuffled from the room and disappeared. Further fortifying the Skyline before Peach gets there…Mario is going to kill me, but I need to let him know.

As I stood up to head back out, though, Kamek pushed open the throne room doors. The Koopatrol stood outside still.

"We need to talk."

"You're right. And I owe you an apology." I folded my arms. "But I've also got to tell Mario about something that I'm doing."

"With the Skyline?"

"Yes." I blinked. "What, did you specifically question the soldiers on it?"

"Correct."

"That much I can handle," I insisted. "You…don't have to run everything for me, you know." Sucking in air, I held it for a bit. "I need to alleviate more for you, but I've just planned something small to do with Mario—"

"He is your future." My mouth hung open as the words escaped. Kamek nodded and turned away. "Go to him. I can talk with you later."

"Kamek—"

"Hasn't he been making you happy?"

"Obviously."

"Then go to him and keep making him happy as well." Kamek turned away. "I'll find you when I'm ready."

"But…"

He didn't bother listening, and I couldn't quite form the right words to deliver to him. So, I exhaled as everyone left, and made my way back upstairs.

Mario closed the door to Junior's room as I entered the hall, and as I approached, he softly smiled a bit.

"What happened?" My fists tightened as I bit my lip. "Is he ok?"

"He'll be fine," soothed Mario. "You were right about him eating too much, but I've helped him settle his stomach a bit." He smirked. "Well, more like that Magikoopa you sent up, but I gave him some emotional support, I suppose."

"Good, good." I dragged my claw through my hair. "And now?"

"Currently resting, and the doctor will be scheduled to check on him." He shrugged to me and smiled. "We can put off that date, if you want."

"No, if he's taken care of, I'll leave him be." Still, I couldn't resist settling my heart as I gently opened his door. Junior was buried under blankets as he rolled around, fast asleep. "Yeah, he's definitely out for the count."

"So you still want to go out?"

"Sure!" I smirked. "We're not going to be too far, honest." Tapping at my cheek, I nodded. "If he has any emergencies, he can contact us either with his paintbrush or with Kamek, and I'll be able to get back here quickly."

"If you're certain."

"Definitely. He's young, but you know he's capable."

"True, you're right." He smiled back. "Ok, then let's get ready."

We went to our room, and I strolled over to my wardrobe. Plucking some hangers out, I draped two suits onto the bed. Mario blinked and raised an eyebrow as I separated them for each of us. Smirking, I glanced down to him.

"Yes…?"

"Formal wear?"

"It's a date."

"But you told me it wasn't a big deal. Repeatedly."

"So?" I shrugged. "I still want to dress up and make sure we both look good." My eyes lowered as I bounced my eyebrows. "Don't you want to see this big guy all dressed up, just for you?"

"When you put it like that…" Mario placed his hand over the suit I set aside for him. "But, when did you even have this brought up for me?"

"Recently…somewhat." I rubbed behind my head and glanced aside. "I, ah, may have put in orders for, um, some clothing that I wanted for you."

"…Put in orders?" He stared as I looked back to him. "Are these new?"

"Uh…maybe?"

"Bowser!"

"Ok, fine, yes!" I folded my arms. "What? It is perfectly normal for boyfriends to buy each other clothing."

"But—"

"Aw, come on, Mario." He blinked as I got my clothes ready. "You can't really expect to wear the shirt and overalls every single day with me, can you? I wanted you to have some clothes for extra occasions that we go out or do things together." His mouth opened in protest, but I shook my head. "Look, I've got enough money to spend for you, and I've got a good idea of your taste. Usually. And I know what I like! So, I think it's completely acceptable."

"…Well…" Mario gripped his arm and hesitated.

"Look, it was a surprise, and I love to spoil you," I reiterated for him while I put on my clothes. "This isn't something I'm going to do all the time, but after all we've been through, I'd like to give my boyfriend some extra attention." A chuckle escaped me. "Most people are happy when a partner buys clothing."

"Ok, ok," he relented. "You're right, and it's really sweet, so, thank you." He placed his cap aside and ruffled his lovely brown hair. "I just want to do something for you now."

"You did a lot for me throughout all of yesterday."

"That's different."

"When it's your turn for a date, you can come up with something for us," I decided. "Now, quit contesting this, and get out of those overalls already."

"Why are you always trying to rush me out of my clothes?"

"Because you're hot, plumber boy," I mocked as I buttoned up my lavender shirt. "Now hurry up!"

"Fine…"

Perhaps it's strange that I found enjoyment from watching him undress, or maybe he moved a bit slower so that I'd pay attention. Whatever it was, it worked, and my fingers fumbled the buttons on my shirt while Mario dropped his overalls. Biting my lip, I forced myself to remain across from him, with the blasted bed blocking his waist down. Though I wasn't positive, I'm pretty sure I spotted a smirk on his lips as he pulled off his shirt and turned away from me.

"Shouldn't you be past the shirt by now?"

"Huh?" Damn it. "Uh, yeah, yeah, I got it."

"Weren't you just rushing me?"

Growling, I fiddled with the remaining buttons and grabbed the black pants. But again, I watched him as he put his arms through his lilac shirt, and pulled it across his body. Why didn't I pick something with swimming or anything involving less clothing…?

"These actually feel pretty light," piped up Mario. I blinked and shook my head. "Are we going to be outside?"

"Mostly, yep."

"So why the jackets and bow ties?"

"Oh, they came with the outfit, so, uh…" Crap, I want him to wear the full ensemble. But it is going to be warmer out… "We can just leave those behind."

"All right."

Grumbling, I tugged the pants up around my waist, pushing my legs out before lining my tail up with the hole in the back and pulling it through. Wrapping the belt and pulling it around, I clipped it together and adjusted the clothes to fit a bit more comfortably.

My eyes wandered back over to Mario as he did the same with his outfit, and sat back on the bed to put his boots on. Scrambling back into the closet, I dug out new shoes and tossed them over to him.

"Put those on!"

"What?" He blinked and stared at the pair on the bed while I tugged a larger set out. "Wait, you got me shoes too?!"

"Yeah, nice and dressy ones."

"Bowser—"

"You're welcome!" I grinned as he deflated.

"…Thank you…" He put them on as I sat down on the bed to do the same with mine. "Are these brown or black?"

"A very dark brown that can probably pass for black."

"Ah."

While I'm not too big on wearing shoes very often, I did get these mostly matching outfits for both of us, so I cushioned the lining for my nails and shoved my feet in. Holding my legs up, I stared down at them and tilted my head, wiggling my feet to study the shoes a bit. It wasn't like it was my first time wearing a pair, but still…

"Are you wearing shoes too?"

"Yes."

"But you never…" Mario watched as I pushed from the bed and walked around to him. "…Oh, I see now."

"See what?"

"We both have some kind of light violet shirts, black pants, and dark brown shoes." He folded his arms and smirked at me. "You're not very subtle."

"Who told you that's what I was going for?" I grinned as I wrapped my hands around his waist. "Pretty sure the idea was for you to notice."

"Weird color choice, though," he remarked as he glanced at his clothing. "Black sure, but purple isn't really…" He paused and lowered his eyes, gazing into mine. "You're ridiculous."

"What? Why?"

"Red and blue together make…"

"Very good, you caught on real quick," I complimented while my beam broadened. "I was hoping you'd notice that."

"Why not red and green?"

"Did you check the bowties?"

"No, I didn't…wow."

"And I bought an orange one in case we ended up wearing these and your brother wanted to wear green," I pointed out. "It's a darker green, but that way I don't have to clash with him, should that situation arise."

"So we're planning on using these more than once?"

"That was the plan, and they are nice clothes," I suggested. "Maybe when the world is a nicer place and we have…ah, crap."

"We what?"

"No, it's…" I clasped a hand over my face. "Look, I had troops talking to me about fortifying the Skyline, and I did try talking them out of it a bit, but they wanted me to, so I did that, and now I want you to know because I don't want to hide that or anything."

"…Huh?"

"I agreed to reinforcing where Peach and the others are going next."

"Oh." He lowered his head. "Well…thank you for telling me."

"Mario, I swear I'll fix everything, somehow," I vowed. "Look, I have no idea what it'll take, but I—"

"You didn't want to talk about the war on our date, right?"

"Please, Mario…"

"Is it already done?"

"…Yes…"

"Then I can't change that." He picked his head up and gazed to me with…no anger in his eyes…? "So, let's not focus on it."

"But—"

"After everything, we're figuring it out," he asserted. "But for right now, let's just…" Mario scooped up my hands. "Let's just take a minute for us."

Slowly, I nodded to him, squeezing his hands as he softly smiled, but I couldn't force the same from myself. My shoulders slumped as I glanced aside.

"More than a minute."

"Huh?"

"That's what I was expecting from you," he teased. "I wanted to take a minute for us, and I was waiting for you to follow up with insisting on more."

"Oh." I smirked, but it faded to a grimace. "Right…"

"Come on, Bowser—"

"Don't act like it doesn't bother you."

"I'm not, and it does." Mario shrugged. "But we can't do anything about it, and that's the last fortress you took, isn't it?"

"Well, yeah."

"Then let's figure out fixing it after it needs to be," he offered. "And right now, let's just take time to ourselves."

Considering that it didn't satisfy me, I doubt he was either. But I only nodded to him as I perked up a bit, and wrapped my hand around his. Mario's lips curled into a more genuine smile, and he pulled me closer to him. He was right, and we can't go back.

So I guided him from the bedroom and through the castle.

Holding his hand without the glove over it felt oddly refreshing. It wasn't the first time, but just feeling his skin felt so soft and smooth comparatively. Not to mention that his warmth livened me up. Even in these shoes, my footsteps were lighter and bouncier. My cheeks burned up a bit, but when I checked with Mario, he smiled as he watched me.

"Do I look stupid?"

"What? Not at all."

"If you think so, you can be honest."

"Seeing someone so excited over me just being around is refreshing," Mario admitted. "Usually I get asked about showing off my jumping or another stunt skill."

"Ha, well, as impressive as those are, I'm enjoying just holding your hand more." My face flushed, as I looked away and scratched at my cheek. "That sounds so cheesy…"

"Maybe a bit, but I love hearing that." I whirled back around to his grin. "Oh, and I didn't even return your compliment from before."

"Huh?"

"That you're hot, and even hotter than me." He chuckled. "Not just breathing fire."

"Oho, that?" I snorted. "Definitely not."

"Pretty sure that I'm right."

"How about we're both super hot, and agree to that instead?" I winked to him. "Pretty sure we'll be the hottest couple around."

"Well—"

"Quit trying to be modest," I interrupted. "You're always trying to be such a good guy."

"You're right." Mario shrugged. "Even I shouldn't bother denying how sexy we are together."

My feet skidded as I stumbled to a halt. Mario pivoted around as he continued on a bit backwards from me, while my mouth hung open.

"Did you…?"

"Hm?"

"You just—"

"Didn't you want to hurry?"

Spinning back around, Mario wandered along and I chased after him. Months of dating, and he could still throw me off with just a word.

Downstairs and along the eastern wing of the castle, I guided Mario along, locking our arms together. He watched some of my troops staring at us, but I didn't bother. Even as I heard a few whistles around the first three corners, I refused to give them any attention beyond a wave or a nod.

Taking him into another room after I unlocked the door, he slowed as I took him to the next Warp Pipe. I turned back as he raised an eyebrow at me.

"Pink?"

"Yep."

He stared at the pink pipe and raised an eyebrow, as we approached it. Looking at it, checking me, and then back to it, I chuckled as I lifted him up to it.

"You'll see why."

Shrugging with his nod, he hopped in, and I climbed in after.

After the travel, Mario leapt out from the other side, and I popped out after him. Twisting around the small courtyard, he gazed along the outside area, checking the glen, and turned back inward, staring at the tall white walls and green roofs. I sauntered past him and to the wooden gates, unlocking them with another key.

"This looks like…where are we?"

"My gardens."

Pushing the gates open, he gawked as he gazed inside. Plants were few and far between within my kingdom's domain, so finding somewhere filled with even some flowers, vines, and trees would be a sight to behold.

"Oh, and now that we're through the pipe…" I pulled a comb from my pocket, and brushed my hair to the left. Spinning it around, I handed it to him. "If you'd like."

Taking it from me, he brushed his hair around and straightened it out, keeping it a bit to the right. Mario handed it back as we strolled into the gardens.

"How far out are we…?"

"A bit." Taking his hand, I gently pulled him back a bit, and he looked out from the gates. "If you look all the way over there…"

"That's far!" He rubbed his eyes and gazed out across the darker lands. "I can barely see your castle from here!"

"Yeah, this is…pretty private, even for me."

"But why?"

"Well…I don't know." I rubbed behind my neck. "Sometimes, I just want somewhere quiet to get away, and this is as peaceful as it can get for me. Kamek and some Magikoopa help with the upkeep, because I'm lucky when I find the time to even come out this way, but…I like it." Shrugging, I stuffed my hands into my pockets. "I did help with the designing, at least. That much I'm not too bad with."

"Wait, you designed the layout?!"

"Don't sound so surprised…"

"Sorry, it's just…this place looks incredible!" Mario wandered around the entrance and took in the plants, the rocks, and the water. "Junior definitely got his artistic side from you after all."

"Where else would he get it from?" Come to think of it, Junior did get a lot from me.

"Did you have a theme for all of this…?"

"Sure." I kicked at the ground a bit. "Um. Do you really want to hear about that?"

"Absolutely!"

"Oh, well, it's not that original, but…" Clearing my throat, I pointed down at the earth below us. "Well, the rocks and dirt used here come from outside, representing the dark lands themselves. It's to show where you're leaving and coming back to when you enter and exit."

"Wow, I wouldn't have even thought of that," admitted Mario as he viewed the ground. He checked around the gardens. "You're not kidding, this is the darkest spot for the earth."

"Yep." I shrugged. "Kind of an earthly feeling for it."

"Tell me more." He tugged on my arm. "Show me more too!"

"Ok, ok." I chuckled as I guided him inward. "Well, there are three bridges based on which way you want to go. Left is for the most flowers and trees, so that's what I called the wood path. Right leads to clearings and memorials, so that's the metal path. Taking the center leads to a merging and splitting point for the water and earth paths. And going past them will bring you to the rear for tea and extra space for extra activities, so that's the fire path."

"You have to show me all of them," insisted Mario, "at least a little bit of each."

"Of course." My hand gestured to each path. "Your pick for the first path."

"Well, if we're in your gardens," weighed Mario, "might as well start with the plant life."

"Thought as much." I smirked. "It's actually supposed to have a kind of beginnings feeling to it, from what I read about."

"Plants are symbolic of life."

"True."

Guiding him across the left bridge, he gazed at the wooden beams with vines around them, and we walked along the wood path.

Mario gazed over the pink and green flowers and leaves gathered around the wall and grounds. He spotted a pointy silver plant and knelt down beside it, studying it.

"Those are called silversword plants," I rambled. "Though, there's another name for them, which is ahinahina, since they're very gray. They're found near volcanic regions."

"Are there two different kinds?"

"At least, yeah." I pointed at the shape. "One's a little more round, but they both have shapes that are like swords, so…it's pretty cool."

"And these magenta flowers?"

"They're bougainvillea, which are used sometimes to interpret peace and welcoming others," I elucidated for him. He gently reached for one. "Oh, uh, those are toxic to touch." Mario whipped his hand away and I laughed. "One of the Magikoopa learned that the hard way."

"Thanks for sparing me that lesson."

"You're welcome."

"There are more pink ones here by red flowers too," pointed out Mario. "Aw, and the red has a heart shape!" He glanced back with a smirk as my cheeks burned.

"So, uh, those are camellia," I managed. "Pink is meant to, um, I think that one's for pining and longing for someone." He watched as I traced around the heart shape. "That's why they decorate around the red ones, because that one symbolizes passion and love, so it's—"

"Symbolizing your longing desires for love," murmured Mario.

"Yeah…" I shrugged. "Guess I can get another heart added now." He glanced up as we smiled.

Continuing on the path around, Mario stared at the round shapes for the trees. His finger traced along the ball and puffy shapes for them and he spun back around to me.

"What are these? Cloud shapes?"

"Cloud trees, you're right." Scooping up his hand, I traced the shapes with him. "See, it's where you sculpt and prune the trees to create the cloud imagery." He looked to me as I shrugged. "Clouds are soft and nice. And if you shape these right, it creates some bends to conceal other spots, so you're more focused on this path."

"Clever."

"Somewhat."

"The camellia are on some there too…?"

"Right, the trees include some plants here, and the ones over here have camellia." I gestured outward of the area. "Around the gardens, I've got other trees like azalea, oak, and bamboo. The last two are for strength and longevity, and I read that azalea are supposedly about taking care of family, so, I wanted that included."

"Huh, that's really sweet." He grinned. "You're a big softie for family."

"You already know that…" My face had to be on fire by this point. Flames could come out easily if I was focused on that.

"So adorable…!"

"Yeah, yeah…"

Further along, he ducked below a leaf that hung over from a plant. I stepped beneath another one that branched out to us, and Mario observed how it covered me.

"It's like a big umbrella, even for you!"

"Kind of, sometimes they can even function like that, or for shade." Pushing it up a bit, I cupped my hand below the plant. "I think the broad term is gunnera, but you can call them umbrella leaves."

"These are pretty fun!" Mario checked at the vines on the walls. "Are those grapevines?" I nodded. "Makes sense. You use those for wine?"

"Sometimes, though these are mostly decorative."

"Got it."

"You know, there are four more paths."

"Oh gosh, sorry."

"That's fine, we can just stroll—"

"No, no, we can't take forever here, as much as I want to." Mario tugged me along. "Show me more."

"If you want," I offered, "we can come back any time that we're free."

"Which is rare."

"Fair."

"Come on then!" We came upon two more bridges. "Oh, what about these?"

"Left goes for the fire path, and right goes toward earth and water."

"Let's save fire for later," decided Mario. "Show me the others."

"You got it."

Crossing the stone bridge wrapped in vines, we came upon the rock garden. Mario surveyed the flat stones arranged around the sand patterns, studying the wavy lines further away. He jumped onto a flat stone nearby and studied the ground below.

"Some of these are specific shapes," noted Mario. "Over there, that looks like a Koopa Shell. These have Star shapes to them. And that over there looks like a Fire Flower."

"Yep, they're shaped like a few different powers of the Mushroom Kingdom," I confirmed. "There's some plain stuff over there too, shaped into a sun or a moon." He watched as I traced the moon shape near a taller boulder. "That one is based around the stone there from two legendary stories, one being about a mountain home for immortals, and another based on someone's quest for a moon elixir."

"Really?"

"Myths and legends that I've read up on in passing." He tilted his head while I rolled my shoulders. "Hey, I don't spend every waking moment on conquest."

"Apparently not," he teased.

Snorting, I picked up his hand and guided him around the rocky arrangements. We came to the center, which split the middle pavilion between the earth and the pond.

"Why are the earth and water paths connected like this?"

"From what I researched, they're kind of meant to be symbolic opposites," I illuminated. "Earth's for land and rocks, so they're considered hard and sturdy, while the water is softer, flexible, and more mysterious." I pointed to the pond and the streams past it. "Going to those, you can see some lotus plants floating around too."

"Oh wow." Mario gazed at the openings along the opposite side. "So, past the pavilion there would be a spot to look out, and there are more openings along the water path, right?"

"Yes, since that allows for a better view of the waters without having to jump into them or anything." I pointed to the pond below a clear glass platform. "You can view it directly above out that way. And then the streams go back along either way, but going to the opposite side leads to a cascade."

"Very fancy…"

"There are a few other spots to look out over the water, but if you came along the bridge from the entrance, there's a few spots where the water and earth mix, because there are stepping stones to cross a spot from further down, and then the stream along the other way which creates a basin for additional shapes and designs."

"So it's like a meeting point between the opposites."

"Exactly!" I placed my hands on my hips. "See, Kamek didn't get that the first time I went over it with him. He kept going on about how fire was supposed to be water's opposite or whatever."

"It made sense to me."

"Thank you!" Folding my arms, I grinned. "Good to know someone appreciates my artistic talent."

"Very well designed." Mario pointed to the metallic bridge. "That ways goes for the metal path?"

"Right, yeah."

Taking him away from the central viewing pavilion and the pond, we went over to a space between the walls for a clearing. There were some memorials between part of the spacing, with some names plated in and small lanterns around the shrine.

"On the right there is memorial material, for remembrance of…well, you know." Mario gazed up while I shrugged and looked away. "Some folks I like to remember, even if it's for something small."

"Maybe I shouldn't be around this spot…" Mario wrapped himself up. "I wouldn't want to disturb their memories by being here."

"What? Oh, no! These are for people that I knew from years ago, before I even was in charge and before I met you," I corrected. "They're more like old friends that I had growing up over the years, or teachers and mentors that helped me along."

"Oh!"

Wrapping my arms around him, I kissed his head and cradled him close to me.

"Even if you knew them, I'd be fine having you here," I offered. "Maybe a bit weird to consider, but it's meant to be peaceful."

"Hmm…"

"Ah, I forgot about the cherry blossom trees over the bridge from the water path," I recalled. "Those are kind of like a snow representation for that, and then they blend into the orange and yellow leaves around the metal path for autumn."

"There are seasonal representations too?"

"For each area besides earth, yeah. Earth is transitional."

"Didn't know that…"

"It's a mythology thing, or something," I muttered. "Anyway, there's a small space on this side to relax for meditation around the other side this way, towards the back."

"In that clearing?" He pointed to the space between small fences and I nodded. "Oh, I see, there are little mats there, and it's got little dividers with characters on them."

"Good, yeah, and, um…just ignore those statues of me posing as wind and thunder spirits. I'm not that arrogant, honest." He laughed while I covered my face and brought him further along. "And there's another spot with baskets there for when we harvest and collect different plants and fruits around here, which…is relatively rare that they leave, but I'll have some Magikoopa gather them once in a while for special occasions."

"Wow."

"A little boring?"

"No, these are really…" Mario gazed around and back out to the gardens. "Bowser, I would have never imagined that you had a place like this."

"Well, it hasn't always been here, and it's…not something I share a lot." I twiddled my thumbs. "It's pretty private."

"It's beautiful…" My heart fluttered from hearing him.

"A bit out of character?"

"Not at all, this is so serene, and it shows a side that you don't normally give out, but it's definitely you," he complimented, and made my heart soar.

"Stars, Mario…"

"Last spot, fire path!"

"Huh? Oh, uh, right!"

Taking him along the rear section, I pointed out the tea pavilion. Unlike the round pavilion in the center, which is more of a viewing point, this one was larger, with overhangs that allowed for shade, and a table beneath with a tea set.

"Not that I'm avid on tea or anything," I confessed. "But, I did think it would be a nice and quiet spot for it." I guided Mario to the table. "Sitting back here actually lets you see out to the gardens as well, and you can get a spot for each location right over here."

"Wait, really?" Mario sat down and gazed out. "Oh gosh, look at all of it! That's so colorful and bright!"

"Right?" I chuckled. "And there's another viewing gazebo over there too."

"What about this space in the middle?"

"That's free space to do something different from anything here."

"And the boombox?"

"For dancing." My lips curved into a smile. "Not that I do it very often…"

"…Were you planning on this?"

"No."

"Liar."

"Fine, yes." Grinning, I laughed as he shook his smirking head. "Didn't I promise you a tango?"

"Ages ago, but…" Mario laughed a little. "I didn't realize you were being serious."

"With you, of course I am." I bounced my eyebrows and held out my arm. "May I have this dance?"

"You are such a cliché romantic," he teased as he took my arm. "And yet I love it."

"Perfect."

Taking into the neatly marked floor, I flicked the boombox's button, and steady music started up, the violins and timpani being the most notable.

Mario placed one hand around my shoulder while my arm wrapped around his waist. Our free hands connected, as we started moving to the music.

Stepping around one another in a circle, our thighs grazed and rubbed against one another with our dance. He rolled his eyes as laughter escaped him, and I leaned closer into him.

We spiraled as I pulled back and released Mario into a twirl, and watched him spin a bit. Rolling back to me, I guided him along, and his grip tightened a bit back against me.

"Easy, I've got you."

"Mm…" His beautiful blue eyes were lit up with a passionate fire behind them.

The music picked up its pace a bit, and we split apart a bit as our steps quickened. He held his arm up as I spun around and spiraled out, before slowly guiding myself back in as the music gradually slowed with my motions.

Our thighs crossed as we took slower steps around in the opposite direction. We must have gotten the same idea as we pressed into one another, and our movements guided each other even closer together.

As the music reached its crescendo, we twisted around and I started to lean over him. But Mario flipped us around, and dipped me down as the music came to a tender end. Even though his face was fairly red, Mario was glowing with excitement, matching mine. Our hearts hammered in an oddly alternating rhythm.

"Real tango, huh?"

"Promised that to you," I reminded him.

His face came lower and I giggled a bit too excitedly. Our lips met as we kissed, and Mario guided me back up, pulling me into him as I scooped his face closer into mine. My tongue traced his mustache as I pressed into him, and his mouth opened. Eagerly, I ventured into him, and tapped at his tongue, as he pushed into my mouth, tapping lightly on my teeth. Sliding his tongue back against mine, he retracted and I followed his lead, rubbing our lips together until we slowly parted from one another. Gazing into one another's eyes, our lips curved back up into grins.

"Is that a reward for my kept promise, or do you just get that excited in gardens?"

"A little of both, since both kept me close to you."

"Aha…"

Laughing as we brought our faces closer together, a sharp chime rang out. I bumped against Mario's face as I pulled back a bit, looking around.

"Were there wind chimes…?"

"Yes, but that's not what—" It rang out again and I plucked out my magic wand. "That would be this."

"Oh."

Tapping at the wand's flickering head, I cleared my throat and brought it to my mouth.

"Junior, how are you, son?"

"Um."

"Kamek?"

"Correct." His voice rang from the wand. "It's getting a bit late, and I realize you're busy, but I…wanted to speak with you."

"Well, uh…" I glanced at Mario, who nodded to me. "Sure, I'll be back over in a bit."

"Very good."

With the wand's glow fading out, I lowered it as Mario gazed up to me. My shoulders slumped as I slouched.

"Guess that's it for the date." I rubbed behind my neck. "I was hoping to do more, but I didn't realize how much time went by…"

"You'll just have to take me back out here," suggested Mario. He lowered his eyes as he winked at me. "After I take you on a date, that is."

"Ha. Fair enough." I brought him close to me. "Ready to go?"

"For now."

Guiding him back from the gardens to the Warp Pipe, we kept one another close together, as my tail swayed and smacked against him a few times. He narrowed his eyes while I beamed down to him.

Returning to the castle, I had just gotten Mario to the main hall as Kamek flew in on his broom. He tapped it and checked around.

"Did something happen?"

"Not quite, I just want a little privacy." Kamek hopped from his broom and ambled to the throne room. "Perhaps in here will suffice."

Mario and I exchanged perplexed expressions as we followed him inside. Kamek went inward, but as I leveled with him, he backed away, lining himself across from Mario and gazing at the two of us, then back at the throne.

"Someday," he murmured.

"Look, Kamek, I know I was supposed to get back to you sooner," I started up. "You deserve an apology from before, I snapped, and I'm sorry—"

"As I recall, I told you that I would find you when I was ready," interrupted Kamek, "but I hadn't realized that you had taken Mario out to your private gardens."

"Uh, yeah." I glanced over to Mario and then back to Kamek. "It was a small date."

"Yet very personal, considering that not even the prince has been there."

"Wait, Junior never went there?" Mario's hand slid from mine. "Why not?"

"He'd be bored, he was hardly interested when I brought it up before," I relayed. "Kamek, that doesn't matter."

"It does." He smiled as he plucked his spectacles away, and rubbed them against his robes, which…weren't his usual ones. "You're opening up very close and personal parts of your world to him." Kamek placed his glasses back on. "Forgive me, but I simply cannot recall anyone special that you've taken out that way."

"You."

"Besides myself. And a group of Magikoopa to help maintain it."

There were very few that I brought back that way, he was right. Mario was a rare exception that I gambled on, and he enjoyed it more than I expected.

"My point stands."

"But what is your point?" I folded my arms. "Also, those robes are darker than usual, and you've been acting strange, or uh, stranger, since earlier this afternoon."

"For the Skyline fortress, Princess Peach will overtake that soon enough, won't she?"

"Yeah." I shrugged. "It's not too important at this point, and when she gets here, we'll figure something else out."

"Should she gain the correct controlling measures to the Skyline fortress as it stands, she'll be able to prepare her forces to invade our kingdom," pointed out Kamek. "It contains a direct access point that can stream a relay of magic from any specific point, most notably creating a direct chain from Peach's Castle to yours."

"With some magical rainbow, right," I remembered. "But, to use it, she'll need a lot of magical power, and even with her wand and her powers, that won't be enough."

"Can you tell me who she has with her?"

"Well, there's…uh…" I turned to Mario. "Can you name everyone?"

"From what we saw when we were invading," recalled Mario, "Peach has my brother, Yoshi, Birdo, Daisy, Toadette, Pauline, and Rosalina with her."

"If Mario is capable of using magic," speculated Kamek, "wouldn't Luigi be equally capable of using it?"

"He didn't go to Star Hill," I countered.

"Actually…" Mario started, but I caught it as he brought it up.

"Crap, they were going there!"

"Ah, so, Luigi could have learned magic like Mario," connected Kamek. "Daisy and Rosalina are also capable of it, are they not?"

"Probably."

"Definitely." Kamek rolled his wand in his hand. "And I would wager that Peach has specific retainers that are capable of magic as well, are they not?"

"Toadsworth is," realized Mario.

"That is correct." Kamek adjusted his spectacles. "Between just those that we mentioned, Peach has power between at least five of her allies, including herself." He faced me directly. "Even if it's difficult, she has more than enough power to spare creating the arc across the sky."

"So, she makes a rainbow bridge and brings her army down to face mine." I shrugged. "Big deal. Mario's here, and we can reason with her."

"After you two invaded her castle grounds, attacked and endangered one of her closest retainers, and deceived the public about your relationship," countered Kamek. "She'll absolutely be in a negotiating mood."

"We can give it a shot," tried Mario. "Bowser and I were thinking it over yesterday—"

"Your solution?"

"A work in progress," I offered.

"So, nothing."

"We're thinking!"

"While you're on that, Peach will already have her heading," determined Kamek. "And your best defense for the skies was…a big Bob-omb."

"He's got a great arm!" My eyes shifted between Mario and Kamek. "It's likely not a very lethal threat, and he could blow the whole place up if need be."

"While Peach can likely have the power to contain an explosion."

"Ok, maybe not my best choice, but not the worst."

"It doesn't matter." Kamek lowered his head. "They never sent word to King Bob-omb anyway."

"Did you seriously talk them out of that?" I groaned. "Kamek, we're stretched thin with who we have left to offer!"

"Yes, I am well aware." He picked his head back up. "That's why I will be stationed up there instead."

"…What?"

"They didn't send for anyone else because I told your soldiers that I would take over at the Skyline fortress."

"But that's…" I looked to Mario, but quickly back to Kamek. "You can't do that."

"It's already arranged and I'm leaving tonight," he unveiled. "Either I can defuse her up above, stop her by force, or when all else fails, disrupt her path to get here."

"No, no, Kamek, don't." I gripped my horns. "There's no need—"

"On the contrary, I just pointed out the dire need for that—"

"Kamek, you're not going." My arms fell. "That's an order."

"Probably should have declared that sooner."

"You can't go up there!" Tightening my fists, my heart picked up. "Battling Peach is only going to make things worse!"

"Perhaps, but if I'm not the one to do it, who else could?" Kamek tilted his head. "Is anyone else close enough to this that could actually have a chance to persuade Peach out of her campaign? Do you know which of my Magikoopa are at a high enough class to pull off the spells that I can?"

"None of that matters!" I swept my arm out. "There's no need for you to go up there and risk either of your lives!"

"Bowser's right," chimed in Mario. "Maybe if I could go up there—"

"Absolutely not!" I jerked back at hearing Kamek's voice with mine.

"If anyone could talk sense into Peach, I have the best shot," recommended Mario.

"Unfortunately, you are too important to send off up there, Mario," rejected Kamek. "Even if you weren't tangled in your relationship with Lord Bowser, you would still be too valuable to send up on a dangerous wager."

"Both of you are too important!" I stomped my foot down. "Mario's not going up, because I'm not risking another chance to lose him. And Kamek, you're needed down here to help with…with everything, I admit it!" Clutching my chest, I glared down at him. "Is that what you want to hear? I can't run my whole kingdom without someone helping me, and you're too good at advising and overseeing everything that I can't get to."

"Again, I am aware."

"Then you're not going."

"Ah, but I am."

"Kamek, what the hell do you want to hear?!" My claws dug through my hair. "I'm sorry about yelling at you! I'm sorry if I abuse how much I use you! You're very important to my everyday life, and almost everyone's here at the castle, for our kingdom!" Dropping my arms. "What does it take to get you to stay?! What do I have to do?!"

"Actually, you're only providing more reasons for me to leave."

"How?!"

"This kingdom, the Koopa Kingdom, has been my home," declared Kamek. "All of my life, I've known struggles, war, and torment."

"Didn't you just hear me apologize—?!"

"To be perfectly honest, Lord Bowser, you caused less of my personal tortures than what I've endured prior to working with you." Kamek adjusted his cap. "My service to you, from when you were a baby, all of the way until now, have surprisingly been perhaps the better moments of my life." He smirked. "In spite of your numerous failings and all of your rage from continuous turmoil, you still produced a better life for the Koopas than anyone before you, most notably your father."

"Don't you get what I'm trying to tell you?!" I threw my arms up. "That's you, Kamek!"

"…Pardon me?"

"My father was a tyrant that made everything I've done look like child's play," I thundered. "He was the worst of my entire family, the worst Koopa of our royal line, and worst of all, he never bothered to raise his one and only son!" Tears slipped from my eyes as I stared to Kamek. "…But you did. I don't even know why. He dumped you on me, and yet you stuck with me, throughout all of these painful years. Even now, when I had the entire kingdom poised to stand against me…why did you stay beside me?"

"You…you are mine," managed Kamek.

"That's right! You're my father, Kamek!" I brushed at my eyes, though it did nothing to help. "It's always been you." A weak laugh escaped me. "I never wanted to tell you because I thought that would be weak or stupid or everyone would pick up on the obvious favoritism, but they should've gotten that by now, and my kid loves you, and the Koopalings love you…" Twisting around, I gazed at Mario, who gently nodded. Spinning back around to him, I forced a grin up. "Even Mario loves you! That's everyone important, so that should be more than enough to keep you here!"

"Those are all of the reasons that I have to go."

"Wh…what?!"

"Boy, I want you to understand that this is my family to defend," maintained Kamek. "Just as each of you cherish me, I deeply care for all of you."

"But…but after all I've put you through—!"

"Perhaps you do owe me a bit," teased Kamek. He shook his head, but smiled to me. "But you also took me this far in your life and gave me this life, this family, that I never even imagined that I would have the time to build, develop, and love." He brushed his eyes past his glasses and laughed. "Oh, I told myself I wouldn't break this easily…"

"Kamek…!"

"If peace is attainable, I would imagine you and Mario have a chance at finding it," determined Kamek. "But none of us have yet. Currently, Peach is too powerful to leave unchecked. And I am the best chance at slowing her down."

"She could kill you!" I twisted back to Mario. "Yes, I know you'll deny that, but she can, she is fully capable of it!" Returning my attention to Kamek, I didn't bother cleaning my eyes anymore. "I can't risk you! Why can't you understand that?"

"Haven't you heard me, as I have you?" Kamek laughed, still wiping at his eyes. "Our family is here, and you stand beside your future." He smirked as he looked past me to Mario, but then back up to me. "Your lover here, your son that slumbers…that is your family. They are the ones that you need to protect." Kamek shook his head. "And you are all the ones that I need to do the same for."

"Please, Kamek…"

"Bowser, my king, and my child…you cannot stop me anymore than I could stop you." He nodded. "I would know, because I did raise you…and taught you what your father ignored: that family is more important than anything else."

Tugging out my wand, Kamek smacked it away and lifted his, flashing a blinding light. Rubbing my eyes and growling, my vision came back in time to watch Kamek fly out from one of the throne room's windows, soaring off on his broom and into the sky above.

One heavy roar erupted from me, as I sank to my knees and fell into sobs. Mario's arms came around me, and I held to him tightly.

---

...

Oops, did I forget to mention the sucker punch ending? My mistake.

Anyway, last chapter was a bit breezy for Mario and Bowser to get cozy again, so this one dove full into their romantic escapades. And bonding by spending time with Junior too, because I thought that might be endearing. Junior needed some attention anyway, because why not? He could use expansion on his life and interests, as well as more development on his budding relationship with Mario as a potential second father alongside Bowser. (Quick mention: the dual classing gag is a throwaway joke to Fire Emblem because I'm a fan and it seemed fine to toss in.)

Though it was mentioned previously, I think that Mario Kart was worth including in some form for the story. After all, it is potentially one of the most successful spin-off franchises out there, or at least among video games, and at the very least, the Mario franchise's most successful one. It wasn't much, a very watered down version of it, but it was fun to include it, and a few nods to several installments. Did you ever see the official artwork of Mario and Bowser posing on Bowser's kart together? That totally didn't inspire or influence this idea at all, nope. Also, yes to Pipe Frames because they're the classic staple. (Oh, and if you happen to remember, the Koopa Chase is in fact meant to be a reference to Super Mario 3D World, because I also love that game.)

Next, some treats were included once again from the Paper Mario franchise, and I am so very thankful that they came up with a wide variety of food in at least one Mario series that provides some depth into what these people eat. Super useful, I cannot express that enough. Also, provided a wonderfully cliché moment that Bowser was delighted to partake in. I know some of you goofball shippers came this far with me, and you should totally be on board for that.

The second sequence was a bunch of loosely Super Mario Odyssey inspired content, because guess who finally got to play that game almost three years after its release? There were a lot of great locations in that game, but I found myself very enchanted by Bowser's Kingdom, and wondered if he ever had a place like that for himself just to enjoy. So, I included a bunch of Chinese and Japanese inspired themes and gave Bowser a garden to retreat to...and re-purpose for dates with Mario! (Though the clothing scene was also loosely inspired by Mario's outfits from Odyssey, no, they were not directly related to any particular outfits. But Bowser wore shoes again! Clothe your Koopa.)

With the gardens, I wanted to dabble a bit with some eastern mythology and got a bit carried away with everything. Some parts were taken a bit from another fanfic that I'm writing, which also focuses on flower symbolism; it's come up a few times in this story before, but I think it's most obvious or noted here. Not a lot directly tied into the Mario franchise, so that was a bit off, but we'll see if it was any fun. Plus, Bowser finally got to deliver on that tango he wanted with Mario over forty chapters back, so, bonus!

Finally, the sad scene with Kamek...well, I do still have "drama" as the other genre, so I must meet my quota. Nah, I had this planned out for years, with Kamek being the last boss for Peach to face off against before her efforts against Bowser's Castle. It was fun to tease other options earlier, but Kamek was meant to have this gut-wrenching moment with Bowser where they finally do admit that they're family. Aw, Bowser does love his troops...or, well, Kamek and the Koopalings, at least. But yeah, I'm of the mind that Kamek was Bowser's surrogate father because his actual dad probably sucked, but this is just fan created Mario lore. Can you imagine Nintendo making a game where Bowser teams up with Mario because his eviler dad shows up? That would be awesome. Also, I want Bowser to canonically acknowledge Kamek as his dad, not just lines where it's implied and Kamek's weird thought bubble in Super Mario RPG. Wouldn't that be so sweet? I think so. (Coincidentally, this chapter was released around the same month as Father's Day, so, nailed it!)

Phew! Been a little while since I wrote this much on the Author's Notes, huh?

Feedback is definitely appreciated and helps keep me going, so, if you can spare the time, please send some thoughts in! Not sure how many people are still keeping up with this story, but I'm sure it's enough, and regardless, it's always lovely to hear from readers!

We will be going back to Peach and Luigi's side of the story with the next chapter, but the one after, I'll need to do something creative, or at least cover everyone in some capacity. Well, at least the main characters. Ah, we'll see when we get there!

Thank you for reading and for your continued support of this story! Until the next chapter, please stay safe and take care! I wish you all the best!