Authoress' Notes: Wow, this has to be the quickest update I've ever made... Anyway, ignore what I said last chapter; there're four "Taboo" parts, not three. Also, the Shadow Sirens are color-coded: Ember Sirens are red, Lightning Sirens are yellow, etc. Only 7 more to go!

Better Off Alone

Chapter 23: Taboo (Part II)

"Dear Diary,

Every time I go to Central Harbor, I find it hard to believe it was once the beautiful, wealthy town Mother had destroyed. It was said to have many rich natives, with ivory streets and golden lampposts at every corner. This was a little hard to image, since I've never seen it myself. I don't even know the town's original name. The cobblestone of main area still retained a faded ivory color, while the people who stayed made the best of it. I can't stand that noose platform in the middle of town. I heard it was put there after the town was demolished, meant for... Shadow Sirens. But that's beside the point..."

Lillian stood in an alleyway of the infamous town's west side, getting ready to walk amongst "normal folk". She carefully wrapped herself in an old, long cloak to keep from being spotted. Shadow Sirens often did this when leaving the safety of the Shadow Palace, possibly posing as homeless beggars or knife-wielding robbers. People often avoided those hidden in cloaks, afraid of finding out what lurked underneath...

She abandoned her overly-decorated dress in a pipe near the palace in order to don the proper appearance of a vagrant. Vivian's dress wasn't as decorated, which made her easy to bundle up and carry around.

As she wandered into the plaza, she browsed through the several items they had set up on wooden carts and shops. Central Harbor was a town most would visit, but not stay; this made it ideal for solicitors. One Toad was selling fresh Bloopers, while a Koopa offered jewelry that was obviously fake. A shady Bandit and Shy Guy duo even had the nerve to try and sell grimy clothes riddled with holes. Other people hung around as street performers, dancing, doing tricks, and other rubbish that annoyed her to no end. Then again, Central Harbor had fallen on hard times.

She finally came across a stand with no one in it, their supply of Mushrooms going to waste. They had normal, Super, Ultra, and even Dried at their disposal, not that anyone would waste money on the shriveled Shrooms. There were no price signs in sight, so maybe they were free...?

"Mushwoom! Mushwoom!" whined Vivian, trying to reach a barrel full of them.

"Okay, hang on," Lillian laughed, handing her an Ultra Shroom. "You're so demanding when you're hungry."

With Vivian satisfied, she began to leave, only to have someone tug on the back of her cloak. Annoyed, she turned to face a large, angry Doogan. He was a rough sort, wearing an eye patch and having a thick, blond goatee to match his hair. He wore a big robe with several neckerchiefs tightly wrapped around his neck. A silver nose ring dangled from his flaring nostrils, lifting with each exhalation. Apparently, he was the shopkeeper.

"...Can I help you?"

"Yeah, as a matter of fact, you can," he growled. "I didn't see any money for that Ultra Shroom, lady."

"Sorry, I don't have any--"

He pulled her close. "You know how hard it is to get fresh Ultra Shrooms 'round here? Either pay up, or else!"

Lillian yanked her cloak away. "Hey, back off! I said I don't have the money!"

"Then I'll hafta take this instead!" He grabbed Vivian's doll, making her cry. "I think this'll fit the bill quite nicely!"

The princess didn't hesitate to grab the bundles of scarves on his neck, forcing him down to her level. Such strength obviously surprised him.

"Give it back before I make you give it back!" she growled, staring daggers at him beneath her hat.

He laughed as if she were joking. "You and what army, little lady?"

This "little lady" was about to show him "what army" with the help of her Piranha Plants. She didn't care if her identity was revealed; no one ever took anything from Vivian and got away with it, especially this overgrown coward.

"Whoa, whoa! Wait a minute!" called a voice.

Both and Lillian and the shopkeeper looked up to see a Koopa and his Winged Yoshi idly stride over.

"Come now, sir," he calmly said, turning his angry grasp on Lillian into a firm handshake. "I'm sure there's no need to tear the poor woman's arm off. As you can probably see, she's a simple hag, and I'm betting she hasn't eaten in weeks. She's probably disease-ridden, for all we know!"

Lillian's jaw dropped, appalled at his obscene sense of humor. The very nerve of him saying that! And he acted as if it were true! She was about to slap that stupid smile off his face, before he turned slightly to wink at her. ...Was he trying to get her out of trouble?

The shopkeeper looked at him hard. "So, you're sayin' you know this thief?"

The Koopa shrugged. "Unfortunately, I do. She's my poor, little cousin. Sorry for the trouble, but she's not quite right in the head."

"What?"

He whispered to him just loud enough for Lillian to hear. "...Ever since the dreaded Hooktail laid waste to her town, she hasn't been the same. I'm the only one she has left in the whole world."

His Yoshi added to their sob story by wrapping a supportive wing around Lillian and hanging his head.

"Erm..." He fingered his goatee. "I suppose you're right. That Hooktail's a gnarly one, she is. I guess I could let it go this time... But only because you vouched for her. I don't tolerate stealing, no matter what the reason!"

Lillian frowned. Some sympathy he had...

"Yes, and I don't think anyone should!" Distracting him with his laughing, he carefully took the doll and handed it to Lillian. "Being who I am, I should know."

"All right, Kevin... That Ultra Shroom cost 500 coins, but I guess I owe you for saving Petalburg last week. Got family there, y'know."

"Aw, sure thing. It's always a pleasure to help those in need." He began shoving Lillian off, loudly saying, "Now, let's go home and look at that arm of yours, cuz. Those third-degree burns aren't gonna heal themselves."

"...Where are you taking me?" she whispered.

"Petalburg. We'll be safe there. Just keep going..."

"Dear Diary,

What happened at Central Harbor was odd, to say the least. I guess maybe I should start being more careful about what I do there. But, about this "Kevin" person... I'd heard of him before; He was one of those Four Heroes who planned on defeating Mother and saving the world. They were our sworn enemies. Marilyn and Beldam fought him on a regularly basis and he nearly beat them within an inch of their lives each time. Imagine what he'd do to me and Vivi..."

Lillian leaned against a tree in Petal Meadows, watching her savior brag to his Yoshi. He slipped him two Ultra Shrooms, eating some himself. Obviously, he'd stolen them from the shopkeeper Doogan.

"Aw, man! You shoulda seen the look on that guy's face! He was all 'I guess I could let it go this time, but only because you vouched for her!' That was priceless!"

The Yoshi laughed, mimicking the Doogan's deep voice and beard-stroking motion.

"Here." He offered her an Ultra Shroom. "Want one?"

"No thanks... Uh, I guess I should thank you for that back there."

He slyly smirked again. That seemed to be his trademark. "Sure, but you just be careful from now on. I might not be around next time to save ya."

Lillian faked a smile, trying to be as nice as she could. "Yes. Well, next time, could you try to maybe... mind your own business? I knew what I was doing. I didn't need any help."

Kevin's smile disappeared, replaced by a look of intrigue. "Well, excuse me for trying to be generous! Guess that'll teach me to never rescue damsels in distress again, huh?"

"Look, I had everything under control. I could've easily taken care of that guy."

He almost laughed. "Yeah, right. Maybe you could've strangled him with that wardrobe of yours..."

This made her mad. "And maybe you could've done with a better impression. I'll have you know that I'm not a disease-ridden hag!"

"Could've fooled me," he responded coolly.

"Well! Some hero you are--!"

She was suddenly interrupted by Vivian, as she dropped her Yoshi doll. It let out its "Yoshi!" squeak upon hitting the ground. Nero used his nose to investigate the toy, confused by its structure. It looked like a Yoshi, and it sounded like a Yoshi, but it sure wasn't a Yoshi. So, what was it? More sniffing soon revealed that the doll not only didn't smell like a Yoshi, but it reeked of something else, something much more sinister. This made him growl.

"Nero, what's wrong?" laughed Kevin, handing the toy back to Vivian. "What? You're saying she's in denial because she knows I'm right?"

Lillian scowled at him until Nero started growling at her. Kevin knocked him over the head.

"Cut it out. What's the matter with you? Uh, sorry. I don't know what's come over him. He only acts like that when a Shadow Siren's around." He laughed. "Crazy, huh? I haven't seen any in a good while."

Lillian began to leave. "Yeah... Well, keep that thing on a leash, or something."

"Hey, wait! Not so fast! I didn't even get your name." He stood haughtily. "You're in the presence of a celebrity, y'know."

"Could've fooled me," she said, imitating him.

Now it was Kevin's turn to get mad. "Okay! Fine! Walk away while I'm still talking to you! I understand if you're scared--"

"I'm not scared," she reassured him. "Now, please go away. I don't want anything to do with a sleazy, selfish vagabond like you."

Annoyed, Nero watched as Kevin followed this stranger as they continued to argue. If there was one thing he couldn't stand, it was to be ignored. His nose told him something wasn't right, and he wasn't going to stop until Kevin knew it. Snorting, he abruptly flew off in a single flap of his large wings. Vivian clapped and giggled at his departure, shouting, "Pwetty Yoshi, fwy! Yay!"

"Hey! I might not know what a 'vague bond' is, but I think you're the same thing!"

"You couldn't be further from right!" yelled Lillian. "And it's 'vagabond'! Not 'vague bond', you dimwit!"

"How would you know?!"

"Listen, genius! If you don't even know the meaning of a word, what makes you think I'm the same way?!"

"Ha! See? You called me a genius! Now who doesn't know how to use their words?"

Lillian was practically speechless from his display of childish arrogance. "I don't even know why I'm wasting my time with you! Get out of the way!"

"Oh, great comeback!" sarcastically mocked Kevin. "I'm sure the shopkeeper would've been begging for mercy after that!"

"And I'm sure there's a village somewhere looking for their idiot! They're probably missing you already!"

"How do I know that's not you?!"

"Because I'm not some half-witted, snooty jerk, like a certain Koopa!"

"Are you talking about me?!"

"Yeah, you!"

In the midst of their fighting, Nero's tongue appeared from a tree and tore off Lillian's and Vivian's cloaks, eating them in one gulp. The older princess screamed in shock, while the younger applauded his trick, wanting him to do it again.

Kevin was startled, to say the least. "Princess Flora?!" He jumped back, pulling out his sword. "I should've known! No one'd wear a cloak in this kind of weather! Nero, why didn't you say anything?!"

From a tree branch, Nero could only roll his eyes and groan, slapping his forehead in disgust.

"So, what're you gonna do? Kill me in broad daylight? Do you even have the guts?" she growled, still steamed from their argument. This hadn't been the first time she'd been found out. Although, those who discovered her often ended up dead soon afterwards.

"I'm not about to let a slimy Shadow Siren get away that easily, especially Princess Flora! And don't think I forgot about that 'vague bond' comment, either! You'll pay for that!"

Lillian rolled her eyes. Judging by the scars on this freak, they were probably all self-inflicted. Had Marilyn and Beldam actually lost to this... loser? He barely knew how to hold the sword, despite his rumored prowess. She easily could've killed him... and probably should've... but Vivian was present, and no blood would spew before her innocent eyes.

"So?" asked an impatient Kevin. "Are you gonna attack anytime today, or am I gonna have to slice your head off myself?"

"Why don't we both just go home and pretend this never happened? I don't want to fight..." She lowered her voice to a threatening tone. "And you sure don't want to fight me."

"Like you're in any position to talk." He fingered the blade. "The blood of your sisters has stained this sword multiple times. What makes you think you can prevail where they failed?"

"Trust me; you're better off not knowing..." She calmly passed him. "Goodbye, Kyle."

"...It's Kevin."

"Whatever."

She walked back to the pipe they emerged from, hoping to forget this whole turn of events ever happened. Maybe she could go home, have some brunch, and improvise from there. To her surprise, Kevin began walking alongside her, smiling like an idiot.

"I've never met a Shadow Siren who didn't want to fight before. Your kind always seemed much more... aggressive."

"As long as you're not a threat, there's no reason to fight."

"In that case, why don't you stay and chat a little? I've got nothing but time on my hands."

She glared at him, still mad from before. "...I think I'll pass. I have to go now."

"Aw, wait a minute. Where're you going?"

"Home. I can't be out like this."

"Why?"

"Because we're sworn enemies. Now, goodbye."

He kept following. "Well, I don't think you're that bad."

"That's nice..." she grumbled, starting to get annoyed.

"Ooh, feisty, aren't we?" he joked.

"Just leave me alone. I'm not supposed to be here."

"Why?"

"Because I'll get in trouble."

"Hey." He grabbed her arm. "What's the big hurry, anyway? What I said before about you being a 'vague bond'; it wasn't true."

She groaned. "Listen... Kelvin, Kane, or whatever your name is... I need to go home--now."

"Why?"

"Because I'm not supposed to be seeing you!" she screamed, answering him for the millionth time. "Now, let go!"

As she struggled against his might, she suddenly stopped, realizing he still had that idiotic grin on his face. She scoffed. This guy must've been really popular with women.

"Look, can you let me go already?"

"No." He got in her face, narrowing his eyes and still grinning that stupid grin. "I'm not letting go 'til you tell me your real name. Everyone calls you Princess Flora, but a beautiful princess is certainly bound to a more beautiful name."

Lillian had to hand it to this guy; he sure knew how to get what he wanted. He wasn't even the slightest bit afraid of her. She could've easily summoned a Piranha Plant to tear his arm off, but something about his intense, emerald eyes told her it'd only make things worse. She respected his courage and, at the same time, admired it. Plus... he did say she was beautiful.

Staring him down, she sternly replied, "Lillian. My name is Lillian."

"Lillian, huh? Yeah, that's a lot better than Flora. Y'know, with the flower and all. Can I call you Lil?"

"No. Can you let go of me now?"

Her response disappointed him. "...I guess so."

As she continued to pull, he released her arm, allowing her to fall flat on her face with a squeal of surprise. Neither she or Vivian were hurt, but the Yoshi doll was squeezed in the process, making it appear Lillian squealed "Yoshi!" Nero fell out of the tree, laughing.

"Thank you..." she mumbled, standing. "Now, goodbye."

For once, Kevin didn't follow her. She didn't hear a response or the quick shuffling of feet behind her, so it must've finally gotten through his thick skull that he was unwanted. It was then she glanced down quick enough to notice she was no longer holding Vivian. Empty arms dangled by her sides, missing the little bundle. Panicking, she turned to face Kevin, knowing he had something do with her disappearance. But her accusation was quickly proven wrong as Vivian stood before him, offering a flower she picked from the meadow.

"...What's this for?" he asked, surprised.

"To say 'tank' you. You saved Mr. Yum-Yums," she said, referring to her doll. "Wilwian said s'nice to say 'tank you'."

"Well..." he took the flower, glancing at Lillian walking back over. "Uh, thanks."

She crossed her arms upon reaching him. "...I see she's quite taken with you."

"And who wouldn't?" He put the flower in his mouth and posed girlishly. "I think I'm very appealing."

She laughed, but suddenly stopped herself. What was she doing?! Talking to one of the Four Heroes?! It was bad enough she wasn't trying to kill him, but engaging in casual conversation was simply out of the question!

She looked down to see the young princess giggling at Kevin. Lillian herself was raised to never trust anyone outside her species, but Vivian was too young to discriminate; despite the two yelling just a moment ago, she saw nothing wrong with him. Maybe he wasn't that bad after all. Perhaps it couldn't hurt to stay a little longer...

After an awkward silence, Kevin began gnawing on the flower. "...Does this mean you changed your mind about leaving?"

She sat on the grass. "Looks like it. I guess I can stay for a little while..."

"Really? Cool!" Kevin flopped down beside her.

Nero's mouth dropped open. Befriending an enemy was bad enough, but a Shadow Siren was simply out of the question! He'd been brought up to hate them, but Kevin actually wanted to talk to her! Maybe he'd been infatuated; that happened every once in a while. And if that was the case, it was his job to give him a good, skull-shattering headbutt to bring him back to his senses...

He was ready to slam his thick head into Kevin's when he noticed Vivian at his feet. She smiled at him, whereas he frowned and replied with a raspberry. This made her laugh. He tried his best to look intimidating by growling, spreading his wings, and stomping the ground. But Vivian only laughed at the silly Yoshi, squeezing her doll in unison with his growls. At one point, his snout got close enough for her to kiss, which caused him to cough and gag uncontrollably.

Kevin ignored Nero's exaggerated retching. "...Now, tell me about the shopkeeper. How exactly would you've 'handled' him?"

"I have my ways. I'll just say it would've been a pretty sight."

He wasn't convinced. "Uh huh... Yeah, that's kinda hard to believe."

Lillian's temper flared again. "I could've sliced that guy in half! Are you questioning my strength?"

"You didn't look too threatening when I saw you..."

"Fine, I'll show you threatening! Fluffy could've taken care of him, no sweat!"

"...Fluffy?"

It may've been an odd name, chosen by Vivian, but actions spoke louder than words. Lillian stood and approached a nearby stream, dipping her hands into it. Kevin looked at her quizzically as she sat huddled over the water, concentrating on something. He was just about to question her strange motives when a huge Naval Piranha rose from the water. Her shadow loomed over him, as she grinned mischievously. Two Naval Buds danced around the main head, as a hungry tongue lopped from her mouth. A huge, pink ribbon hung from her neck, making such an intimidating creature look somewhat foolish.

"Kevin, I'd like you to meet Fluffy, one of my strongest and most loyal pets!" Lillian boasted, knowing he'd lose all control of his bladder soon.

The prickly thing lowered herself to his level and roared, blowing his hair and beard back. He smiled.

"Y'know, I got eaten by one of these last week on the way to Keelhaul Key. If the pirates didn't get you on the way, these guys sure will."

"...Doesn't that frighten you?" asked a puzzled Lillian.

"Not really. Nothing really surprises me anymore. Monsters, disasters, slaughter, suffering; I've seen it all."

The princess sat in disbelief, along with her carnivorous friend. Now she was intrigued. She didn't care if he was an enemy; she wanted to know more about this "Stalwart Koopa". Seeing she was no longer needed, Fluffy shrugged and submerged until she was no more. Embarrassed, Lillian smiled nervously. The moment had indeed turned awkward. Kevin laughed at her expression, then she began laughing at herself. Soon, the ordeal was completely forgotten.

Neither one of them could've predicted how this strange day would end, but Kevin somehow sealed it by asking the simplest question.

"So... why don't you tell me more about yourself?"

"Dear Diary,

Kevin and I sat there for hours, just talking. It was amazing how much we had in common. He seemed to understand and relate to me on all levels. We liked the same kind of food, had the same interests, and loved breaking the rules. There wasn't a single thing we disagreed on. Mother would be furious if she saw me running around with one of our most persistent enemies, but what she doesn't know won't hurt her..."

As Kevin went on, talking his harrowing fight against a Gargantua Blargg, Lillian glanced over at Hooktail Castle. Earlier, the setting sun cast the castle's shadow over the hills in the distance, making it look quite terrifying. Now it was merely a black silhouette against the dark, starry sky. It was amazing how time flew when you were having fun...

"Kevin?"

"...almost bit my arm off! And--Huh?"

"It's getting dark. I have to go."

"Oh. Well, it was nice talking to you." He laughed. "And strange."

She smiled. "You're not all that normal either, y'know."

"Yeah... but you're still weirder."

"No, you defiantly are."

"No, you are."

"No, yo--" Lillian stopped. "Wait. Where's Vivi?"

"Oh, she's over there."

He pointed to Nero sleeping against a tree, his wings covering a dozing Vivian and Mr. Yum-Yums.

"Aww... I always thought children and animals had a way with each other," said Lillian, picking her up.

"Yeah... Uh, do you plan on coming back anytime soon?"

The question caught her off-guard. "Huh? Well... I don't know."

"I know I'd like to see you again. You're really cool... for a Shadow Siren." He flashed his silly grin.

She tried to sound indifferent. "...I guess I could drop by some time, but let's meet somewhere a little more private. Have anything in mind?"

"My friends and I are going to Twilight Town soon. Know where that is?"

"What a stupid question. All Shadow Sirens know where Twilight Town is. It's like our home away from home." She playfully threw her hair back, causing it to shimmer emerald in the moonlight. "It's a pretty dangerous place for outsiders, though. If you plan on going there, you must be really brave... or really stupid."

"I've been called both of those my entire life, so I guess you'll just have to see and judge for yourself," he smugly replied.

"Sure your friends won't mind?"

"Aw, they probably won't even notice. I have an entire secret life they don't know about."

"Which is...?"

"Come tomorrow... and maybe I'll tell you."

"All right, then. It's a date--" She suddenly stopped, realizing that came out wrong.

To her surprise, Kevin held out his hand. Lillian looked at it for a moment, unsure of how to respond. Shadow Sirens didn't usually shake hands, but that didn't mean she should refuse. She finally extended her gloved hand and firmly shook. This would turn out to be a most interesting relationship...

Deep in the dark, cold corridor of the throne room, the Shadow Queen sat musing.

Something wasn't right. Lately, she'd been seeing less and less of her youngest daughters. There was no telling where they were at this time of the night. Lillian avoided her like the plague, and Vivian still wasn't showing any promise. At this rate, the Amethyst Star would be too weak to use once she became queen. Something had to be done...

"Your Highness," said a servant.

"...What is it this time?"

"Uh..." The Ember Siren trembled at her irate tone. "P-princess Marilyn is here to see you..."

"Hmm. A surprising visit, indeed. Let her in."

The servant signaled to the two standing on each side of the entrance. The two slowly pulled opened the huge doors, allowing their visitor to enter.

The Ember Siren bowed. "Princess Marilyn, it's an honor to have you drop by again."

Marilyn acknowledged her with a slight nod and kept walking. She wore a saffron dress with a large amber brooch on her chest. A long belt of gold wrapped around her waist, ending in a bow with ribbons on her back. Similar to Lillian's, a golden tiara with topaz jewels decorated the rim of her hat. Her orange-yellow hair was done in a long, braided ponytail that nearly reached the floor, adding to her golden attire. Despite her simple-mindedness, she was the flashiest of the Shadow Princesses.

"So, you've finally returned from Twilight Town," said the queen, who wasn't too thrilled in seeing her. "Have you accomplished anything of importance lately?"

"...The Four Heroes. I've been running into them a lot lately..." she said, hesitantly. "They're getting stronger, much stronger..."

"Stronger?" she rubbed her chin. "That's not good. They've been a thorn in my side for far too long, and I'm getting very tired of their interference."

"...They've been coming to Twilight Town a lot more often, too."

"I see. I fear those heroes plan on doing something drastic soon."

"...I'll rally the servants and tell them to expect the worst. That's all we can do now."

The queen nodded. "Yes, very good. But before you go... Have you seen Gwendolyn anywhere? I was hoping she'd at least prove as cannon fodder when the time comes..." She spoke carelessly, almost laughing at thought.

Marilyn knew who she was talking about. Despite their bitter relationship, she was the only one to ever call her by her real name.

"Beldam lives in that big mountain place now... Has a lot of snow and stuff..."

"So, she's still alive, I see?" Her face darkened. "How unfortunate... But I digress. I want you to do a job for me."

She bowed. "...Yes, Mother."

"Lillian has been absent quite a lot recently, but has nothing to show for it. She's yet to've fought the Four Heroes, has brought in no prisoners, and hasn't taught Vivian a single spell. It's becoming very troublesome."

"...What do you want me to do about it?"

"I've received word that she's returning now. Starting tomorrow, make yourself useful and follow her. Don't get lost, don't let out of her your sight, and don't let her catch onto you. I want you to report back to me on what she's been doing. Is that understood?"

She sighed. Spying on Lillian wasn't exactly her idea of being useful. She was more on her side than anything. As far as Marilyn was concerned, Lillian was a free spirit and there was no way to tame her; not even the queen herself could do it. She came and went as she pleased, never followed the rules, and had no desire on staying a princess forever. Regardless, she was her mother, and refusing her wasn't an option.

"Yes, Mother. I won't take my eye off her for a second..."

A demonic grin spread her face. "Good girl."

Just like she promised, Lillian returned late; only the servants and guards were awake at this hour. Vivian was fast asleep on her shoulder, Mr. Yum-Yums squeezed tight in her arms. She took her up to her room, slipping her under the covers for a good night's sleep.

Afterwards, she retreated to her room, lost in the thoughts of that day. She didn't know why, but she just couldn't keep her mind off a certain Koopa...

There was something about him she just couldn't put her finger on: He was sarcastic, arrogant, and a total knucklehead. He had no respect for her heritage, and couldn't care less if she were the Shadow Queen herself. She'd been brought up like a princess all her life, and for someone to finally treat her like normal nobody made her feel... happy. The idea was crazy, she knew, but she'd never been cut out for royalty. Was it strange for a princess to want out of her pompous way of life? She didn't think so.

Such a predicament reminded her of a romance story she read not too long ago; a headstrong princess ran away from home, only to be swept away by a lowly vagabond and his crew of misfits. Despite his trampish background, he was handsome and lovable. The two, along with the misfits, ended up living the rest of their days on a deserted island together in happiness.

She couldn't believe the thought dared to cross her mind, but Kevin was... pretty attractive himself. He was a tough guy with a ridiculous amount of strength that not even she could match. The Koopa race usually disgusted her with their peaceful way of thinking, but this guy sure wasn't the average Koopa. She smiled.

Then again, she wasn't the average princess.

Back in Petalburg, Kevin strolled into the inn. Goombertha was ready and waiting to scold him for staying out so late.

"I don't even wanna hear it," he said.

"Ooh!" she growled.

"Wow, you're back late," smiled Teresa, reading a levitating spell book. "Did you go on a Shadow Siren killing spree today?"

He frowned at the irony of her question. "Uh, yeah. Sure..."

Aaron appeared from the kitchen, handing a Shroom Steak to him. "Dinner ended hours ago, but you can still eat... I guess..."

Teresa shook her head. "Oh, Aaron... Why make Kevin eat the leftovers? I'm sure you could make another Meteor Meal for our brave, fearless leader, hmm?"

"Tonight was just a fluke. I'm not usually good at cooking..."

"That's okay. I'd rather eat something I can identify, unlike Kevin's crap cooking..." grumbled Goombertha.

Kevin didn't respond. He wasn't in the mood to argue or eat, both being his favorite activities. All he could think about was Lillian... As long as he could remember, Shadow Sirens were considered evil lowlifes who'd steal the breath of babies, separate couples, and kill pretty women. They were considered to be bad luck and harbingers of curses. But Lillian was different; she wasn't some witch trying to steal his soul.

The scarred Koopa also had a thing for ectoplasmic girls, Teresa being a perfect example. He'd never found female Koopas the least bit attractive. And Lillian wasn't just pretty, she was hot. As strange as it sounded, he loved it when she got mad. It made her look even hotter...

Goombertha suddenly cleared her throat. "Ahem!"

"Ah!" He jumped, then frowned. "Whaddya want? I was daydreaming over here."

"I see. What about?"

"Manly stuff. None of your business."

"Just shut up and eat," she spat. "We're leaving bright and early tomorrow, so get your fill while you can."

"Yeah, yeah. Ms. Punctuality strikes again..." He slipped his Shroom Steak off the couch's arm, where Nero made quick work of it.

With the leader finally back, everyone began to turn in, leaving him on the couch to drift. Even Nero abandoned him, getting dibs on his bed, instead of the floor. But Kevin didn't care; he was still thinking about the illustrious Princess Lillian.

He didn't want anyone to know, but he'd fallen for her in the worst way possible. Teresa had been his lover for several years, but that was water under the bridge now. He wasn't sure if it was by nature, but he'd always been a scandalous womanizer at heart. "Koopanova" was his nickname before he started the Four Heroes. Much to his dismay, old friends preferred that name over "Stalwart Koopa".

For years, he'd been known to flirt with other girls right in front of Teresa. Since they always gave him the brush-off, it never bothered her much. But this was different; Lillian actually seemed to enjoy his crude behavior, while he had a dirty, dishonest lust for her. He liked her seductive nature, tomboyish attitude, and fearful reputation. Kevin liked to walk on the wild side, and being with a Shadow Siren was just the way to do it. There wasn't anything true, honest, or passionate about his feelings toward her...

And he had the most awful way of expressing them.

"Dear Diary,

I told Kevin I'd meet him the next day. You know, just to check him out. He'd probably be a waste of my time, but I've got nothing but time to waste lately. I don't plan on bringing Vivi this time. If things turn ugly, I don't want her at risk. As much as I hate to say it, I'm a little excited about meeting him tomorrow. I guess it's because I'm breaking the rules again, but it's just so much fun to do! For once, I might be able to actually have some fun in getting away with what I do! I just can't wait 'til tomorrow!"

Lillian woke up the next day with a start, practically throwing her bed sheets across the room. The queen would be up soon, so she didn't have much time... She didn't even bother to put on her dress or any jewelry before she appeared outside, getting confused looks from servants and a certain advisor.

"Whoa, whoa! Lillian!" called Kelly, catching her arm. "Where're you going this early in the morning... and why aren't you wearing your dress?"

"I don't need it where I'm going."

"And that would be..."

She spoke hurriedly, trying to get away. "Twilight Town. Need to meet someone there. Can't be late. Very important. See you later. Let me go."

"But what about Vivian? Aren't you taking her with you?"

"Not this time. I have to go."

"Lilly, are you feeling alright? You're acting... really weird today. And just who're you meeting in Twilight Town?"

She scrambled to come up with an answer. "Uh... um, Marilyn. Yeah. Said it was very important princess business."

"Well, if you say so... Just don't get caught, okay?"

"Yeah, sure. 'K, thanks. Bye."

The second she let her go, Lillian disappeared faster than gold at a Bandits' convention. Kelly could tell it was going to be one of those days. Then again, only their kin and a few of those Twilighter weirdoes lived in Twilight Town. Surely going there wasn't against any rules... She'd just finished convincing herself it was nothing when she bumped into Marilyn.

"Oh, Princess Marilyn." She bowed. "I didn't know you were visiting today. Lillian just said you... were going to..." She groaned in disgust, realizing she'd been duped. "Oh no..."

"'Oh no'? That didn't sound good... Did something happen?" She asked, pretending to be oblivious.

Kelly was practically sweating bullets. "Oh, no! No, nothing happened! I just remembered... that, uh... Gloomtail! His breakfast! He said he wanted Koopas today, but I accidentally fed him Toads! Augh!"

"That's beside the point..." She crossed her arms. "Are you familiar with Lillian's frequent disappearances? Her Highness has noticed that she's been... running away a lot lately... Would you have anything to do about it?"

"I... no. No, I haven't even seen her today." She laughed nervously. "Oh, that Lillian. She's always off like a rocket. There's no telling where she is now..."

"...Well, I aim to find out. If you see her again... tell her I'm looking for her."

"Yes, ma'am... Good luck with that." She bowed again. "Uh, a good day to you, Princess Marilyn."

Authoress' Notes: What's this? Marilyn can talk?! Beldam's real name is Gwendolyn?! 500 coins for an Ultra Shroom?! Madness! Also, writing arguments for Kevin and Lillian is fun. :)