Hey everyone! Just here to give another quick thanks to the amazing artist Amethyst-Ocean. Knocked it out of the park with the cover art. Thanks again!!! Sorry in advance, I'm terrible with choreography in dance! Hope yall enjoy this chapter, cuz its gonna kill yall as much as it killed me .•.
Marco and Star made their way to the dance floor, along with multiple other members of royal families, young and old. A few suited gentlemen climbed atop the stage where all of the equipment was laid out and started playing an upbeat swing style music. Marco saw a group of people he recognized from St Olgas and went to go introduce himself formally while dancing. Star danced casually as Ponyhead flew over and greeted her best friend.
"Heeey, B-fly. You look cute in that dress girl. Id ask if youre breaking any hearts but I see youre only trying to impress one, obviously." Star laughed and pushed Ponyhead playfully before leaning closer. "If you think I look good, you should see him in five years. I'd kill for some of that right now." Ponyheads mouth dropped open and she squinted at Star. "You dimension hopping with Earth turd and I'm not invited?"
Star smiled devilishly and poked ponyheads nose, giving her a knowing smirk and bumping her eyebrows. "Let's just say the stuff we were up to was for two players only." Any amount of shock that Ponyhead had shown previously was dwarfed by the sheer surprise on her face now. "Shut. Up! You did not!" Star shrugged and kept a knowing smile on her face as the two danced. "I cannot believe you! With Earth turd no less! Gurl you are crayyy, zeeee!" As she said this, Marco made his way back to Star and danced alongside the two.
"Hey Star! Sorry I left. Hey ponyhead." The flying equine head had to do a double take of the boy standing before her. He had toned up and classed himself out to another level. He looked like he not only belonged there at the dance, but should be running it. She was near jealousy as Star tore her from thinking any further. "Ponyhead? Did you hear me?" "Uh, no, no I did not hear you, actually." Star laughed and poked Marcos face as she spoke. I was just talking about how Marco and I are gonna spend the night here if you wanna join us for a sleepover."
Ponyhead stared at Star and gave her a smirk that rivaled her best friends. "And if I do, you two aren't gonna be doing anything cray, are you?" Both teens blushed and Marco elbowed Star. "Ow! What was that for?" Marco eyed Star and shook his head. "I know you blabbed about what happened on Vintal." She giggled and kissed his nose before resting her hands on her hips. "That obvious huh? Sorry, Diaz, girls gotta brag a bit."
Ponyhead shrugged off their annoying romance and smiled at Star. "Well, as long as you fools keep it classy, Ill be there gurl." Star clapped her hands and beamed that the two before hugging them both. "Nothing like a sleepover with my favorite people in the world!" Before anyone could say anything else, the crowd roared behind them at the center of the dance floor.
A wall of red fire erupted and at its center, was Tom and Torridity. They jumped and swayed with the lively beat as fire grew around their feet. Toms was red as blood and Torriditys was orange like the sun. He swung her around him and the two slowly rose into the air on a column of fire, their colors mixing with fervor. As they spun, the fire died down and they were deposited calmy to the ground. Marco stepped closer, holding Stars hand, to get a closer look.
The girl Tom was dancing with had orange skin, like the sunset sky. Her eyes were deep red with black pupils and her mouth was adorned with two distinct fangs. Her dress was jet black and marked with intricate orange markings resembling skulls. Her hair was deep red and swept up into a bun with two pins holding it into place, and two small sharp horns sitting atop her head.
Marco turned to look at Star and to his surprise, she seemed pretty ticked. Star wasn't known to be the jealous type, much less while standing next to her boyfriend. She whipped around to face him, her blood boiling, and an uncharacteristically evil smile on her face. The audience clapped for the two dancers as they took a bow, and made their way almost exclusively to Star and Marco. Tom flashed Marco a grin and spoke with layers of contempt, and smugness.
"I'd ask if you two caught the dance, but there's no way you could have missed it. Especially under your cheap disguise." Torridity eyed Star and grinned, almost as smug as her date. "Kinda like how Princess Blues over here missed the point of fake horns." Star stepped forward, clearly ready to take it outside all over Torriditys face, but Marco extended his hand to stop her. "Big talk coming from the bimbo dating the guy who tried casting a love spell on my girlfriend."
Tom tried to speak up but Marco continued. "Why dont you two snakes just walk away before 'Princess Blues' makes your faces match her dress." Torridity stepped forward and poked a finger into Marcos' chest. "Call me a bimbo again and I'll burn you alive, human." Before she could retract, Star grabbed her wrist, glaring at her with eyes pouring with blue fire. "Touch my boyfriend again and I'll make you long for the easy death of being burned alive. Cmon Marco. Let's show these fools how royal mercenaries dance."
She led Marco to the center of the dancefloor and looked into his eyes. "You ready?" He looked around at the crowd that gathered, not enjoying so many eyes on them, but nodded. "Ready."
Star backed away, and the music dropped to a slower, but more intricate pace. Marco stood back as well and bowed cordially, which Star returned. They walked towards each other and held hands at shoulder height. Marco stepped forward, leading her around at a pace that matched the beat, as both of their eyes sparked with dancing tufts of fire. He extended his arm sending her back towards the crowd before pulling her closer and doing a 180, swaying and stepping around each other with the beat.
He placed a hand on her back and led her forward before allowing her to twirl before him. She spun around and leaned backward to be caught in his free arm and kicked a leg into the air. Marco brought her back up and the two waltzed to the center of the room, keeping their steps lively and swaying to the alluring music. He spun her around and lifted her in the air above him before swinging her back down around him and catching her in another lean. The two stood and bowed once more before releasing their hands.
Star looked around and gestured to the crowd. "You guys want something a little more, wild dont you." The crowd cheered them on and Marco stepped to the stage. He cut a portal in its center and stepped through. All was silent for only a moment before a lively, soft playing trumpeter walked through. He was dressed in a white suit and seemed surprised, but being paid well enough meant you do what is asked without question. He blared a soft melody and before anyone could say a word, the loud beats of drums broke through the gates. Three men with different drums slung to their midsections walked through and began beating a quick tone, which the trumpeter matched.
Another man stepped through with a large pair of bongos, and lastly a simply dressed man with different smaller sets of instruments such as whistles, maracas, a bell, and wooden sticks. Marco stepped out last and took off his cape and jacket, leaving a dark blue best over a white dress shirt. "I'm not sure what youre used to here on Mewni, but on Earth, we call this music, Samba."
A lively tempo picked up as Marco returned to the dance floor like the first time. He and Star took positions on either side and bowed cordially. Before either looked up, Marco drew both scissor blades which blazed with blue flames and sparked them against the floor. Star stood straight and immediately took off running at Marco as the drums and whistles sounded with the trumpet. A collective gasp went through the crowd but before she reached him, he twirled around and sliced a portal in the air where he stood. She disappeared through it and Marco danced backward to the center as she shot out of a portal above the crowd.
Star flipped in midair and landed on her feet, crouching low as she slid across the floor with her heels sending blue sparks into the ground. She whipped around and fell back into Marcos outstretched hand before he flung her forward, twirling in a blue inferno. He cut a portal behind him and slowly fell back into it as Star held her hand in front of her. Marco fell backward through a portal and before he could fall further, he caught Stars hand and was pulled against her.
He grabbed her sides and spun her around as the drums roared with lively music. They stepped quickly and danced with fervor as the music picked up its pace. Star grabbed both his hands and the two spun faster, creating a vortex of blue fire that lifted them into the air. Deep blue fire mixed with bright and lively flames as the vortex grew. When they reached a suitable height, she kissed Marco softly and pushed them apart with force as he threw both blades to either side of the spinning flames. As the blades sunk into the ground, two purple portals were opened and both teens fell into each headfirst
The vortex dissipated and the two were shot out of different rifts at opposite ends of the floor. They flew towards each other and when they met, they grabbed each other's hands, Marco sending Star over his head and landing on his feet. He leaned back and swung her around him, leaving a sapphire trail of fire behind her as he brought her down and dipped her next to him. She shot out her leg and pulled Marco into a kiss which sent a wave of a blue inferno out in all directions. The audience roared with intent and cheered wildly as everyone who wasnt screaming was left speechless. Star held Marcos' hand and stood as they both huffed with the warmer air.
The music playing a lively salsa and the two took a bow before Marco collected his swords and placed them against his belt. They walked off the dance floor, panting and excited as they waved to their new fans. Patty, Ponyhead, and several other nobles ran up to them and shared their amazement as Tom and Torridity made their way over. "Well, Marco, I have to say that was actually amazing. But try to remember that fire is my schtick okay?" Marco smiled slyly and nodded before taking a drink of water. Star punched his arm as the two demons walked away and spoke with smug grandeur.
"Hes just jelly because we totally killed it." She kissed Marcos cheek and smiled as Ponyhead floated over. "Okay, like, tonight I need some real updates on what the hay you two have been up to. Yall were soo fly it was amazin!" "Thanks! I thought Marco was gonna mess up the sword throw but we crushed it!" Marco put on his jacket and cape before stepping away to thank the band members. As he left, Patty eyed Star and gestured to him.
"So how did you find him? Because I want one. Scratch that. Need one." Star laughed and shrugged before eying her prince as well. "I dont know, he actually found me. Its a long story but our history runs deeper for him. Hes been through a lot and he really takes care of me. I'm just really lucky to have him." Ponyhead somehow took a drink and spoke through the glass. " More like getting lucky but whatevs. Not my business." Patty raised an eyebrow and shot a glance at Star who, for the life of her, couldn't help but turn a shade of crimson.
"Stop talking about it already, Pony! I dont need the whole kingdom finding out!" As she said this, Star turned pale as she noticed both of her parents walking towards them. She straightened up and smiled at them as Queen Moon eyed her inquisitively. "Star, I believe I should ask you where you both learned to dance like that. And why on Mewni you were on fire."
Star darted nervous glances around, looking for Marco. He was normally the one who could think of excuses, but he was nowhere to be found. "Well, see, we practiced yesterday on some dance moves with a lot of pizazz. He and I know how to fight so it came pretty naturally." River stepped forward and patted his daughter on the back. "Well, you certainly stole the show, young lady. A lot of pompous wig wearers around who were beyond impressed with you. Yes."
Moon rolled her eyes and looked around before turning her attention back to Star. "Sweetheart, are you, romantically involved, with Marco?" Moon wasnt stupid. She could tell what was going on. And Star had to take a moment to remember how to breathe. She hadn't given any thought to how she would tell them and now that they were both asking so suddenly, she could feel an immense amount of pressure building.
"Um. Well...I am, Mom. I've spent a lot of time with him and I feel comfortable when hes around. I know you dont think that's right because I'm supposed to be on Earth to train, and I shouldn't be chasing boys but hes really special to me and-" Queen moon held up her hand and to Stars surprise, smiled.
"Star, I'm not asking because I dont like it. Hes a smart young man and I can figure that hes just as infatuated with you. Hes quite the gentleman and I'm sure, with time, can be quite the suitor for you." Star couldn't think of words to describe how she felt. Simply, she was elated. She smiled wide and hugged her parents who returned it in kind. She opened her mouth to speak but River interrupted her. "That being said, young lady, Id like to talk more with who youre running around with before they start kissing my daughter in front of a crowd."
Star blushed and held her hands behind her back. "Technically dad, I kissed him." River shook his head and smiled. "Leading the attack from the front. That's my girl." Moon leaned in and kissed Stars forehead before making her way back to the head table. "Dont do anything I wouldn't do, sweetheart. And I enjoyed your dance."
Star smiled to herself and walked to her table as a familiar voice spoke from behind her. "You really did look wonderful out there. I'm almost sad it wasnt me dancing with you." She turned around to face Tom and scowled at him. "Not in a million years, Tom. I'm with Marco and Id appreciate it if you kept the creepiness to a minimum." He looked down and spoke with honesty. "I'm happy with who I'm here with. Torridity is a wonderful girl, just like Marco is a wonderful guy. I admit I'm not fond of him, but I can tell what a good man he is to you. I'm happy for you both, really. Even if I still hold a grudge against him."
Star was largely shocked by this admission and eyed the demon prince before her. "I appreciate your honesty, Tom. I'm happy for you too. Torridity seems really into you, so long as you dont try to brainwash her." Tom blushed and spoke timidly. "Yeah, I'm sorry about that. Really, that was stupid." Star slugged him in the arm and smiled before noticing Marco at the refreshments table. "Dont worry about it. Things worked out well, and I'm happy that we can enjoy what we have. Now if you'll excuse me, I see my date is struggling to figure out which drink is for humans."
He smiled and stepped aside as she strolled towards her Prince. He seemed to be deep in thought when she walked up behind him and wrapped her arms around his midsection. "Whatchya doing, Prince Turdina?" Marco held her hands and turned around before hugging her. "Just getting a drink. I can't tell what's safe and whats swamp water." Star giggled and handed him a soda from the cooler under the table. "Courtesy of Mewni. Consider it thanks for the option of trading with Earth."
Marco smiled and stepped back before taking a swig of cola. "It's my pleasure. I hope it works out alright. I think some old farmer would be happy to trade tons of corn for some gold." The two strolled back to their table and enjoyed watching the party. They joined other partygoers in dancing once in a while but after a few hours, the party began to die down.
Kings and Queens made their way out of the throne room as servants cleaned up a moderate mess. Star and Marco sat on the stage with Ponyhead and watched as the tables were taken away while they talked. Star took a swig of cola and poked Ponyheads nose. "So, you've been on us about what we've been up to, but what about you? Whos that Prince Grant you came with?" Ponyhead blushed and shook off the question but it was clear she was hiding something. "Hes um, yes just a prince from a centaur kingdom, its totally platonic and stuff."
Marco and Star exchanged looks and eyed Ponyhead, who had just found a sudden interest in the ceiling. Star spoke up first, prodding Ponyhead for the details she was so dutifully owed. "So where did you meet this, 'Totally platonic' friend of yours ponyhead? Did your parents set you up?" Ponyhead blushed and drooped her face as she stared at Star. "Yes, yes they did. But I told them I wouldn't like anyone they chose." Marco nodded and stroked his chin as he pretended to be interested in her romance dilemma.
Star patted the back of Ponyheads neck and stood up. "Well, just be honest and tell them, and Grant, how you feel. You'll be just fine. In the meantime, we can eat away our problems and stay up so late they can't find us." Ponyhead smiled and enjoyed a hug from Star. "Gurl, I would like that very much, as a matter of fact." The three made their way out of the throne room and after an hour of junk food and generally destructive behavior, they found themselves sitting around Stars bedroom.
Ponyhead ate a slice of cake and eyed Marco. "So like, how do you make your 'Passion Flames' or whatever appear?" Marco waved his hand and blue fire danced around his fingertips like it belonged there. "I just think about Star, and warm thoughts I guess. It's pretty cool." Star looked at ponyhead and gestured to the small silver ring around the base of her horn. "Where'd you get the cool ring?" Oh, yeah um, so like, Grant gave that to me and I was like, 'Oh my gosh youre just the best date ever', and he was like super embarrassed and stuff. It was great."
Marco took a swig of soda and pointed at Stars cheek marks. "So where do those hearts come from? How come when I use your wand I get some too?" Star smiled and held up a finger, remembering what her mother taught her. "It's from exposure to high levels of magic. The royal family always has cheek marks because we're always using the wand."
Marco was satisfied with that answer and the three sat in silence, generally bored. "Well Star, I think I'm gonna turn in for the night. We have school the day after tomorrow." Star stood up after Marco and turned to her bestie. "Okay well, Ponyhead Ill be right back. I'm gonna go make Marco a guest bedroom." Ponyhead squinted at the two and sneered. "Yeah, okay. Just make sure you actually come back from this alleged guest room."
Marco walked with Star and gestured to his blades. "Star, you know I can just portal home right?" "I know." He looked at her puzzled but noticed she was smiling gently. He looked forward and tried to ignore the imposing, high walls of the castle that now seemed like a forgotten home to him. "So why build the guest room?"
Star used her sparkle glitter bomb expand to grow a copy of Marcos room out of the side of the castle. After the dust settled, she turned to face him. "Because I like when youre close to me. Yeah, you could just portal your way straight to me, but you're still dimensions away." Marco smiled and hugged her, enjoying the warmth of her body against his. "Alright. In that case, I'll be here if you need me, Star."
He kissed her softly, holding her hands as he did. She returned in kind and the two seemed to be lost for a moment, drunk on the feeling of each other's lips against their own. After a moment, Marco pulled away and opened his bedroom door. "Goodnight, Princess Star." Star smiled sweetly and waved him goodbye. "Goodnight, Prince Marco."
He closed the door and Star stood, silent for a moment before sighing and walking back to her room. Morning couldn't come fast enough for her.
Marco shut the door and sat on the edge of his bed. He had enjoyed the party but his muscles ached, his head shook with a tired lull. He took off his cape and crown and was about to remove his boots when a shadowy figure crept from behind his desk. "Star? You shouldn't really be in my room. If your parents found out-" A deep, gruff voice came from the figure that began to stand and grow to the height of Marcos ceiling. "Oh, they'd have a fit if they knew I was here. Just like I hope your little girlfriend will when she finds out you ain't here no more."
Green eyes blazed behind the musty wraps of Varteks face. Marco stood and was about to pull his blades when Vartek pulled a talisman from his chest. The small beads of wood glowed with orange energy and Marco slumped to the floor. "Goodnight sweet Prince." Vartek laughed to himself and picked up the body before cutting a portal, allowing several monsters to come in and make work of the room. "Old lizardman really pulled through with this sleep charm. If this doesn't draw out your friend, I'm not sure what will."
He cackled with laughter and stepped through the charged green portal, leaving only a fly, and a red hoodie behind.
To be continued in~ Second plans and Deja vu
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AUTHORS NOTE
Whew. Like I said, Not good at all with choreographing dances. Nonetheless, I hope yall enjoyed it and are now actively anticipating what happens next. Its pretty wack lol. If you have questions or just feel like dropping some opinionaide for the picnic, feel free! Enjoy your day and I'll see yall next time! BUH BYYYEEE!!!
Mr. Ronald Reagan