Marco at a Crossroads
By: DJ Rodriguez
(Author's Notes: Hey everyone! How are you all doing? I hope that all of you are doing well, staying strong and sure in this time we are currently living in.
Before I say or do anything, I want to give praise and honor to the Lord. God, thank you for answering my prayers and looking after my family. We have endured a lot since this viral nightmare started, and even though it has been tough on all of us, we are getting stronger and more closer to you. Jesus, continue to guide all of us more. In this day and age, we need you now more than ever to get through the many obstacles and challenges that continue to crop up. Help my family, my friends and the many people out there on this planet that need you very much in all ways, shape and form.
I still pray and hope to see the permanent end not just to this corona plague, but to everything else that has cropped up due to it. I hope and pray to see the end of masks and face-shields, the end of distancing on any level, the end of isolation, the end of staying at home, the end of excessive sanitation, the end of contactless/touch free nonsense, the end of plastic walls and Plexiglas barriers, the end of online/virtual substitutions of any kind…
More so, to see the end of fear/panic/paranoia/doubt/worry. I hope to see the people come back in putting more faith and trust in one another, but more so with the Lord in securing them. I believe more in security than in just safety; to live tried and true outside the safety/comfort zones while knowing I am protected in all ways! I hope and pray to see fear and paranoia done away with for good in all, and people making the supremely hard but very worthwhile journey back to regular-normal on all levels.
I hope and pray that people find and hold tight to that special substance/essence that exists in the many small, subtle but very significant blessings/gifts/freedoms that all of us, including myself, used to take for granted. I do NOT want to take any of it for granted again, and hope and pray that the people realize and hold fast to their beings the true growth and experience plus sensations/satisfaction/accomplishment/fulfillment/completion that comes from doing things in real-reality with people, not something one gets through a screen.
Now then, I believe I owe all of you patient readers a good chapter & I aim to deliver to the best of my abilities!
Author Drjeesh is still working on the comic that is about this story here, so any kind of positive encouragement and words to him would be most appreciated. Also, I put his picture here as the Image Cover for this story. So this picture all created by him!
Also, I want to extend my warmest and sincere gratitude towards all of you who have kept up with my stories, been patient with me & have enjoyed my work here even though it is slow. Thank you to all of the readers and reviewers! You all deserve to be blessed by God for your patience and understanding!
The story will pick up, that much I promise. Just want to flesh out the characters & plot more before kicking things into high gear which will be soon!
In this chapter, you will see Marco's reaction to the letter he received & also see more of the book he is reading in the hospital. It takes place at the same time when Moon left, so the past will be shown for a bit before moving back to the present. Also… you will see what happens to the four royal ones before and after their punishment is decided!
Just so you all know, I am a big fan of various shows and series that I loved to watch in the past as a kid. So you may see some references or similarities that are from one of my fave TV show series, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers that aired long ago in 1993. I'm old school all the way in many things, so be prepared to spot some subtle Easter Eggs here.
And on a final note, still looking for anyone that can do fan art or YouTube video reviews for my Monsters and Magic series. I am determined to advertise in any way my Disney/Toho novels and works, so any kind of help like that would be most appreciated.
I state this again- I cannot please everyone, nor do I ever wish to. I believe in the words of my pastor Rick Godwin from Summit Christian Center at San Antonio and it is this: If you try to please everyone, you lose yourself entirely. So while others may not be pleased at this, it is what it is. My aim is not to please all, but to write a worthwhile story. No more, no less.
So again, just to be sure I am clear… trust in what I do. I may not be a total expert with the Star Vs. series, but I will do my best with what I know and pick up along the way. In addition, I have been seeing a lot of old cartoon & live-action series that I have on VHS & DVD, still working in fine condition. They consist of both Disney & non-Disney series, and thus I have enjoyed & learned much from them to put in here. So this story will also have educational purposes, similar to shows that combined education with entertainment in the 1980s and 1990s.
The action will also take place mostly on Earth, with some taking place in Mewni. The dimension where time is greatly accelerated, Hekapoo's home, will only be shown a minor number of times. After seeing the Diaz's losing their two kids once more to rapid growing up to them not being part of their lives… I will not have anything like that here. I believe that parents should see their kids grow, help them grow and become good adults in the process. So Mariposa nor Marco will return to Hekapoo's home realm.
So just to make it clear here. There will be NO kind of reference to slash or femme-slash of any kind. So while this is a Marco/Multiple Girls story, there will be NO kind of slash or femme-slash actions or references here at all. I believe that I can bring forth the true and real potential of Jackie and the other ladies here, more so than was done/shown to them in the series.
And that is my stance on this story, and all others I have made and will make in the future. Look to my bio to understand me and more on where I stand firmly. And again, this story will feature Christian elements and faith! And that I am not sorry at all for!
Also, will be giving my OC names from the website 20000-NAMES, as I have done in my previous stories. Each name is linked to a different nation, and has a different meaning. To see what they mean, go to website to look it up. If any of you wish to create your own OC's for me to use in the story, let me know & I will see what I can do.
I do not own Star vs. the Forces of Evil, it is created by Daron Nefcy & executive producers Daron Nefcy, Dave Wasson and Jordana Arkin. Production is the Disney Television Animation, and aired on network Disney XD and Disney Channel.
I Am The Christian The Devil Warned You About is by Mario Murillo, © 1996 by said author and edited by Carol Ann Murillo. Published by the Fresh Fire Communications company in Danville, California in 1996.
Now, on with the story!)
When Queen Moon left the hospital to see the others, Marco was looking at the envelope that held his friend Princess Penelope Acacius's letter. The envelope was light blue, the favorite color of Moon but it was not merely for decoration. Envelopes like that were meant to serve as an item of importance in Mewni, for receiving an envelope like that meant that the contents inside were rather important and needed to be addressed post-haste. On the front was the elegant cursive writing that showed the words PRINCESS PENELOPE ACACIUS, which made Marco smile slightly as he saw that his friend's writing was impressive.
Star handwriting was readable yes, yet it did not contain a kind of charm or class that Penelope or others he knew possessed.
The young Latino lad carefully opened the envelope, taking out the two parchments that were written by his friend from the Acacius realm. He opened up the folded paper, finding the one that started the letter & starting to read what Penelope wrote down for him. He read softly to himself as he reviewed the first-class cursive handwriting:
Dear Sir Marco Diaz the Mighty,
I hope you are doing well. Things have been… interesting to say the least here in Mewni, and at home. I just wanted to let you know that I recently completed my training under my parents, and I believe that I am ready to ascend to the throne when the time comes.
I believe that you once told me that 'no one can fully be prepared for everything, but can be ready for anything'. And you are right on that. While I cannot prepare for everything when the time comes for me to become Queen, I WILL be ready for anything that crops up. My parents have trained me well, my people have faith in me… and you have expressed faith and trust in my abilities. So I can say with full confidence that I am ready, but also knowing I have help should I need it.
Marco I was… I was quite scared on the last letter you sent to me. You stated that you had a business to finish and… and that after it was completed, it would be difficult for you to write back to me. And… saying that there was a… a chance that we would never see each other again after it. And thanking me for being a good friend to you.
The way you wrote it all done… it frightened me, Sir Marco. It was like… I could feel the depression and heaviness in your words. I… I was really worried and scared for you, Marco.
Thankfully, my training had just been recently completed, so me and my family had come to see the Butterfly family quickly to see if you were okay. However, we did surprise everyone when we arrived there, and we cannot exactly blame them since it has been a year since I had last seen the Butterfly family. And just so you know, out of everyone, Star was the most amazed by our new looks. She exclaimed that my parents had put me under a spell, but I put her in her place quickly.
I wish I could write more to you, but sadly on limited time. I will say this; I hope to hear EVERYTHING from you concerning you and this 'business' you had which I know now stems from the Blood Moon Curse. And do not worry, Queen Moon did not divulge what occurred as myself and my new friends Prince Loukianos & Princess Lysimache. We both figured it out for ourselves.
I hope you recover completely and to see you again soon. I want to show you how much I have changed, and for the better I might add. I wish for you to see me in the flesh and blood, for I believe a simple picture would not do. So again, I hope you are healed completely and swiftly.
Sincerely with all my heart,
Princess Penelope Acacius
P.S: Oh, we are SO going to have words when we meet again. So you better prepare yourself, Sir Marco…
Said young man gulped at the last words, as he felt the intensity from those two sentences. He thought, 'It's almost like when Mom is angry with me or Dad with something, and she tells us that she wants to talk with either of us all calm like… that is scary!'. He had learned some time ago that when women were mad, they showed it in various ways like yelling/screaming or showing an enraged face. That was scary in his view…
But when all calm with a neutral expression, voice level but with a certain amount of strength & intensity to it… now that is what made him more nervous & anxious more so then the freely expressive one on many levels.
He looked over the note again and saw what were light tear marks in certain places, showing that Penelope was quite emotional when she wrote in a certain place. The marks were mostly near the part where she admitted that she was scared for him due to receiving his letter. Marco really felt bad for making his friend shed tears over him like so, but he had taken into account the possibility that he may not survive the de-bonding process by Luna.
And he hated to lie to a good friend like Penelope, so he had been honest with his note.
The young lad smiled softly and said, "Thank you for caring about me that much Penelope.". He carefully folded the letter back up and returned it inside the envelope, putting it on the small guest chair that was on his right. Marco knew that it would be some time until he was well enough to reply to the Acacius princess, so he would be patient in his healing.
The young Diaz man reached to the book that was on his lap, seeing that he still had some time until his check-up by the doctors at 4:00 p.m. He opened it up and was back on the page was about to read when Queen Moon appeared. It was Chapter Four- The Twelve Are Found. Marco started to read on how the hero was now waking up in a park in the middle of his own town, fully dressed in the clothes he had worn to church the night before. Most would assume that he was taking a nap, but the hero knew better.
Marco whispered to himself as he read slightly out loud that the hero was trying his best to restrain himself from the supernatural still at work within him. He had believed himself damned when he had went down to Hell… but the hero realized that he was redeemed as it was clear to him that was given a chance… a mission by God Himself!
The former knight of Star Butterfly continued to read the beginning of the chapter with a new intensity, seeing that the hero had seen evil in all its fullness & that the rage and disgust he felt when remembering seeing it all. The hero had come to recognize his purpose, a zeal & zest that was unquenchable burning deep in his very being as compromise of any sort was unimaginable… and returning to the bland faith he once held was out of the question.
Marco continued to read on, his imagination on high as he envisioned himself now as the hero as said being had gone in search of Martin's home address, remembering the information he had gleaned from within the core of the Enemy's camp. The young man was reading intensely when the hero had found the place, and the daughter of the author of The Twelve. He read that the hero had to do some serious convincing on the reason why he was here… to find the thesis of her father.
The daughter Miranda was skeptical, and admitted that she learned to hate Martin's thesis… and that if she let him in her home, she would risk re-opening some very deep wounds. She deeply loved and respected her father, a man who led the gospel powerfully in China and led to many breakthroughs there in said land. However… she also resented him due to her view on that he threw his life away because of his loyalty for Christ.
The Diaz lad pushed onward, reading on how Miranda had described her father as a genius, a man with clear purpose, honesty and love that people around him seemed to grow in strength and power just by being associated with him. The young lady admitted that she was angry that her father's simple genius went unregarded and misunderstood by many of his peers.
When Miranda stated that his thesis was destroyed, the hero let out that it was not so… and soon had to tell her EVERYTHING that he had witnessed. And after that, assuring her that her wounds would not be re-opened but rather healed. Marco could understand a bit on why Miranda was hesitant to even believe the hero… until she spoke the words which he read aloud, 'Somehow I believe you because of the look you have in your eyes. Few, if any, have that look. You only get it after a true bout with the Evil One, and after you face your own flesh and win a warrior's heart from God. I know that look. I saw that look in my father's eyes.'.
Marco continued to read on as Miranda explained a bit of her family's history; on how her father Martin was able to win many people in China, where the people had become lions of God and the numbers of people he won over to Christ increasing dramatically, her older brothers staying behind in China to continue on the work as they convinced her and Martin to return to America due to reassignment… and how everything seemed to change when Martin announced that he would teach The Twelve he had written to a class in the college he taught at.
The Diaz lad started to realize why Miranda hated the thesis of her father, as he had been attacked by all sides & had died while never giving up hope for the genuine and real Christian faith to be spread. He read on, seeing the hero comforting the young woman as he explained that the thesis did not kill Martin… but gave him life. And when he asked to go down to the basement with her to get The Twelve, Miranda was startled that he even knew where the thesis was or where her father prayed a lot. This only added more weight to the hero's story.
Marco read more, reading out loud softly to himself as he continued down the chapter. As they both walked down the stairs to the basement, Miranda pointing out the small dark, dank corner where her father often prayed. She admitted her hesitancy as she explained herself on why it was… and that what they would be doing would change their lives forever. According to the hero, there was no holier ground on Earth than the spot in the basement… a hotly contested piece of real estate that was the flashpoint between good and evil.
When Miranda inquired if he was willing to pay the price that would be asked of him to read and understand The Twelve… Marco read the hero's response, which he was more than willing to pay the price. He had seen damnation, he had seen the master plan created by the Fallen Angel himself that would decimate mankind completely… and he was not going to turn around and hide in fear. Rather, he would absorb all that was going to be shown to him, and fight back with all his resolve.
The duo reached the bottom of the basement, took some tools and together removed the floorboards that revealed the metal box. Inside the small container was a large book, a prayer diary, that was wrapped carefully with paper. Also there was a note that was written with instructions by Martin himself, the hero opening it first and reading its contents.
After reading the letter that had come from the humble yet powerful man of Christ that seemed to be just for him, the hero unwrapped the book and found yet another envelope inside. It was addressed To Miranda, With All My Love. He gave her the letter to Miranda, who had opened it with trembling hands… and soon started to cry but in a good way. The letter contained the healing words of love that only a godly father could impart to his daughter.
Marco read on how Miranda excused herself from the room and went back upstairs… where the hero soon heard her praying, rejoicing, crying and laughing as she read the life-giving words from the letter over and over again. The hero soon repaired the prayer room, soon praying himself as he wanted to begin his new life where Martin left off in his own. And how he opened the diary and started to read the secrets known as The Twelve.
The young Diaz was enthralled, hoping that perhaps on his journey soon around the planet, he would experience something powerful in the emotional and spiritual sense like the hero was doing now.
He didn't know how right he was on that hope!
~At Butterfly Castle~
Back now to the present and in the realm of Mewni, it was 4:00 p.m. The whole meeting that happened in the Butterfly Castle had lasted for twenty minutes, and now it had been ten minutes since Queen Moon and the other royals were behind the fire wall barrier that Hekapoo created. Star Butterfly was still sitting on the cold stone floor during the time, reflecting on her actions as there was nothing else to do. She felt defeated and completely vulnerable now, exposed after her entire actions against her very first Earth friend had been told to all.
Her friends tried to encourage her, shake her out of her stupor and urging her to snap out of it so she could come with a plan to break free from the room. But the blonde princess ignored them all, lost in her own mind:
~Inside Star's consciousness~
One of the emotions that had been in control of Star for now panicking, and it was Pride. This emotion looked like Star, but with darker tone of skin and her golden hair having green streaks within it plus a black headband that had horns on it. This emotion had been in a state of panic ever since the Acacius family came in on the scene, and it had been getting more chaotic for her and the other emotions that made Star's personality & character.
Pride-Star was muttering to herself, "Okay, okay, okay! There is no need to panic! We… We just got to assert our authority! We got to remain firm! We are still in the clear! We are innocent of anything! Yeah, yeah! That's something to say! Just try to pin the blame on Marco and…".
She did not finish her mutterings when the sound of chains being snapped was heard! Pride-Star, and several other unhealthy emotions that were with her, turned towards a door that had been marked in big bold words GOODY-GOODY CONSCIENCE: KEEP UNDER WRAPS. A white light, that had been weak and faint for some time, was now blazing brilliantly under the cracks of the door!
A powerful rattling sound came forth, the door vibrating and looking like it was about to be blown off its hinges. Star-Pride cringed when she saw and felt the strong tremors, but then the rattling died… but the light was still intense as ever.
All leaned in to hear anything else coming from the spot… but they were soon blown away, just as the door itself did as it was thrown from its confines like a cannon would from a cannonball! The emotions were dazed, gathering their wits about them… and looked up to see a bright light coming from the doorway that was now open!
Stepping forth was the conscience of Star, and with her several other beings. With her was Humility, Self-Control, Discipline, Patience, Peace, Kindness, Goodness and Gentleness. Each emotion was exactly like Star herself, but different in subtle but significant ways. It was not just in their clothing or accessories, but with their entire facial expressions and posture.
The conscience of Star had no headband on & her hair was short and in the hair style of Ellie Sattler from the 1993 movie Jurassic Park. She looked furious, righteous anger coursing through her that was different from the Star-Anger emotion that was on the side of Pride-Star. She glared at all of them, but her focus was on Pride one.
She spoke, "Oh no, you are NOT chaining me up like last time! This has gone long enough! I will not allow this farce to continue any longer!". Her words were like a storm, making the emotions that were on the side of Pride-Star flinch and back away. The leader of the group did the same, backing away as the conscience of Star started to step forward with her companions following.
Pride-Star exclaimed, "H-Hey! We need to save ourselves! We need to…!". She was silence again by a mere look from the good part of the vessel they all inhabited. To the negative emotion of Star Butterfly, this made no sense. They had made sure to overpower and chain her and her companions, slowly but surely for the past three years. It was a struggle yes, but they had managed to contain her… sadly in part to Star herself who aided them.
But it seems that both the vessel and the conscience were at one now, and the chains that held the good parts down… they were free!
Conscience-Star spoke softly but with authority and power, "What we need to do… what STAR needs to do is to get herself back on track. The evidence is all before us and has been exposed for all to see and hear.".
Humility-Star stated, "She needs me so that she can learn more effectively in many areas, not being held back by arrogance.".
Self-Control and Discipline-Star spoke as one similar to the Twin Fairies from the 1961 Toho movie Mothra, "She needs us so that she can control her own impulses and learn to steady herself, not to be so loose and reckless.".
Gentleness-Star said softly, "She needs to learn that a gentle hand will not just guide but offer more to others, not an iron fist that only knows unnecessary actions or violence.".
Patience-Star put in, "She needs to learn that waiting and listening are more effective in the long run than merely leaping into a situation with fists or magic blazing.".
Goodness-Star stated, "She needs so badly to learn the fine lines in everything that separate good from evil, good from bad.".
And finally Peace-Star spoke firmly, "And she needs to know peace of mind & spirit, for herself and for others. For Mewnians, Monsters and other beings".
With each statement that was made, the group got closer to the negative emotions who backed away quickly. The white light that surrounded them grew in intensity and power, causing the others to shrink slowly as their influence was being drained.
Pride-Star struggled violently, not wanting to lose her control and influence over the vessel all shared. She rushed towards the good parts of Star, but she was soon wrapped up in golden light that tripped her up. She fell down to the floor, soon looking up at the intense gaze from Conscience-Star. She returned the glare with hate and loathing, struggling to get free but it was no use.
Herself and the other negative emotions were flung to the side, not through the door that once contained them though. Conscience-Star went to the main control apparatus that showed her everything that Star was seeing, the other emotions going to the sub-control panels that the others manned. Suddenly, they were all flooded with various information from Star!
They all felt weak, exhausted but all expected that. They knew that their vessel had been on one intense roller coaster ride for the past few days, and the one she just experienced now was the breaking point for her. Ironically, it was the very thing they needed to be set free. Conscience-Star proclaimed, "We must take it slow and steady for now. Star here is still quite sensitive for the time being… but we are now here to help her.".
Patience-Star put in somberly, "We have quite a journey ahead of us. We have a lot to make up for; to the parents, friends… to everyone in Mewni.". All saw that she was right; over the past three years when returning back to Mewni, Star had gradually slunk back to her old persona and thus many now in the realm, Monster and Mewnian alike, was very wary of her. And with this complete change in personality, many would be skeptical of her.
Discipline-Star stated firmly, "It is a tough road yes… but one that must be done. WILL be done. It will be more worth it in the long rung of things.". The others felt confident in her words. Indeed, it would be a long road for them to make up for everything. But it would be worth it for both Star and the others in the long run.
Conscience-Star sighed, pulling herself together and declared firmly, "Okay… back again in the driver's seat. It's been a long time but… here it goes!".
A flash of white light bathed the room that held Star's emotions, the light coursing through the various networks of living veins and bio-electrical impulses all through the body… from the head all the way to the heart area.
~Outside in real reality~
There is one thing that all should know. Time flows differently in some areas. In the mind, time goes faster so that decisions could be made quickly for the body to translate into real time. So Thomas, Lilacia and Patty were mildly surprised when they heard Star stop crying… and felt something was off with her as she slowly rose up from her position on the stone floor. Dry tear mark stains were on her face, her eyes still obscured by her blonde locks… but her position and stance was firm and solid.
Lilacia cautiously floated over to her BFF and asked, "B-Fly, you okay there? Cause you're acting all weird and such, so now would be a good time to come up with a plan of escape while we got the chance!".
Star turned to her floating unicorn head friend… and slapped her hard with her right hand! The oldest daughter of King & Queen Ponyhead was sent back swiftly to the demon prince and multi-armed princess, Lilacia's left cheek had a red imprint of the Mewnian princess's hand! Patty and Thomas caught her, all stunned by the action. Lilacia was too, her eyes opening with tears of pain coming forth.
All looked to Star who muttered the words softly but with strength, "Don't touch me, Lilacia.".
Thomas let the Hecatoncherire princess hold onto a stunned Lilacia, going to Star and exclaiming, "Star, why did you do that?! Why are you…?!". His words died as he saw Star now looking at them now fully with her bangs no long obscuring her eyes. Her eyes were blazing with righteous fury, showing a fire that they had not seen! Let it be known that they have seen Star angry and such in the past, yet… this one seemed different, more intense and strong than before with a certain substance/essence that they could not identify. Her entire facial features also seemed to show the same fury that was in her eyes.
Star spoke with strength and conviction, "Don't even speak to me Thomas Lucitor! You and Lilacia have NO right to speak to me!". She looked to Patty and stated that she still considered her a friend for now, but that they would have a long talk later on if possible… along with the other princesses of the realm.
The blonde daughter of River and Moon turned her gaze back to her fiancée and continued, "My eyes, my head… my heart, have been made blind for the past three years. You two led me down back to my old self, path that reverted me back to my hyperactive, reckless and selfish self! But… honestly it was all of my choosing to follow you two. To listen to your advices, to follow your lead… to follow your words that have done nothing but hurt my family, the few friends I have here and on Earth… and also to Marco Diaz…".
Her voice had softened when she came to the part where she admitted that most of the blame was on her alone, for her own choice in following Thomas and Lilacia's advice. Again, the trio of royal ones were surprised to hear such words coming from Star's lips & it showed on their faces.
Star regained herself and spoke once again, but this time with resolve & firmness, "Now… everything is open and I can see clearly on how much wrong I have done, just to please my own self and you two. I have a lot to make up for… and I mean a lot. So for my first action…". She held up the purple-colored velvet box that contained the engagement ring Thomas gave to her.
Said demon prince and the two ladies behind him were now worried on what she was going to do. Star opened up the box, taking the ring out and dropping the box once said item was in her possession. She looked at the trio, her right fist closing tight around the ring… and she lifted up quickly, apparently going to throw the ring on the floor to smash it! And if that did not work, she would stomp on it in order to break it.
Tom gasped and rushed over to her, doing a dive with his left hand extended out. Time seemed to slow down as Star threw the ring down… and Thomas did a sliding dive, managing to get under the ring & caught it like a professional baseball player! The flow of time resumed as he now laid at the feet of Star, who was gazing at him still with anger.
The son of King Dave and Queen Wrathmelior let out a reliving breath that he managed to save the engagement ring, but his victory expression was replaced quickly by worry as he looked to see Star's look. He rose up quick to his feet and exclaimed, "Starship, what are you doing?! You were going to smash it!".
The princess answered coolly, "That was the idea. To be engaged to you after what you and Lilacia deceived me to do, coaxed me to do… KNOWING that it would hurt my dear friend Marco… it makes me ill just thinking about it now!". This really hurt Tom and Lilacia, the duo stepping back a little from her frosty words.
Star extended her right hand out and said, "Give me the ring so I can destroy it.".
Tom pulled back, both hands covering the piece of jewelry protectively as he replied, "Wait, wait! Starship, I think you're taking things a bit too far! I mean, after all we have been through and done together, you really want to throw away our engagement?!". There was also another reason why Tom was protecting the ring from Star…
Patty decided that now would be the best time to intervene. Normally, she would have Princess Ponyhead go in to try and settle things. But… the way Star punched her just a little while ago & what she was saying now… even she could clearly see that it would aggravate the situation more than soothe it.
She gently put Lilacia down, the floating head getting her wits back enough to float on instinct/reflex. The four-armed blonde princess went over to the couple, getting in-between them. She stated, "Okay, hold on please! Let's calm down a little!".
Patty looked to Star and asked, "Star, do you really want to break it off with Tom? I mean, you two have been through so much together for three years. And I know that now seems bad and all, but…".
The daughter of Queen Moon glared at her hard, causing her to freeze in mid-sentence. Star stated firmly, "After hearing what I have done from everyone here just now, and seeing back on my own past actions… than yes, I would like to break it off. I want to start on the right foot this time around, and the first thing is to cut myself off from the very beings who caused me to degrade like this!".
Princess Arms replied quickly, "Hold on Star, hold on! Look, just calm down a little for a bit! Let's hear what the parents have decided, THEN we can discuss more on the engagement ring.". This was a gamble in her view, as Star seemed quite adamant to break away from the demon prince. While she knew it would make for the juiciest of gossip, she believed that it would cause a backlash that would hurt both parties. And for the time being, she wanted to prevent more headaches and drama.
The blonde young lady seemingly calmed down in posture, but not by much. She looked over to see Thomas who was still clutching the ring protectively, apparently wanting to protect the iconic bond he had with her. She sighed and replied, "As you wish. I will hold off on this now… but let me make one thing perfectly clear to Tom."
The Butterfly princess looked hard at the demon prince and said neutrally, "Whatever we had Tom… whatever it was that held us together… it's gone. It has crumbled fast, and I see no way for the bridges to be mended unless you AND Lilacia apologize to Marco.".
Lilacia exclaimed in indignation, "Us?! Apologize to the Earth Turd?! Ha! Like that will…!". Her voice was cut off as Tom rushed to her and put one of his hands to her mouth, silencing her and causing the floating unicorn to look at him in bewilderment and confusion.
Tom spoke up quick, "I-I'm sure that will happen Starship! Hahaha… it will! Trust me!". He was smiling in a quirky manner that made the two ladies raise an eyebrow at him while he was trying to maintain his hold on the struggling Princess Lilacia.
Star gaze turned to her friend, her gaze softening a little and saying, "Patty… I consider you a friend still, but I think that you and I… no, all of the princesses who are involved in this mess should have a long talk. Do you understand?". The four-armed beauty nodded, saying that she understood and would abide by her decision.
Despite all that occurred, Patty's first loyalty was to her friend Star. She had helped her out at the reform school, and more so later on after that. But it seems that some misconceptions and such had to be cleared up, both with her & the other princesses that were connected with Star. And if this was what it took to keep her friendship with Miss Butterfly, then so be it.
Tom carefully and subtly moved his hand off of Lilacia's snout, the oldest Ponyhead hissing in anger, "What is your problem, Horn-Head!?". Apparently, she did not like being covered like that.
The prince demon answered softly and urgently, "Shhhh! Look, there is a reason I saved the ring other than its sentiment and legal value! And also, we need to be on Star's good side for the moment.".
The Valley Girl-accented princess adopted a quizzical look on her face as she inquired, "What do you mean exactly? What is going on?".
Tom was about to answer… when he heard the fire barrier sizzling, indicating that it was about to open. He replied hastily, "I'll explain later! Right now, just trust me!". He then stood straight up beside her, the floating unicorn head giving him a suspicious look before getting herself ready as well.
Star and Patty did the same, the four-armed young lady keeping in between Tom and her friend.
At 4:05 p.m., the flame wall slowly lowered itself, revealing the various royal members and Hekapoo. Queen Moon and her fellow royal friends and their children saw something had changed, there was something in the air & with the way Star held herself that indicated this. They all saw the young woman looking tired, worn out… yet also held herself impressively for someone who had just been through an extreme emotional/mental roller coaster ride.
Princess Penelope, Prince Loukianos and Princess Lysimache eyes narrowed slightly at the change in Star's posture and facial expression, trying to discern if what they saw was genuine… or a ruse. The Acacius princess thought, 'Star looks… different. Her eyes, her posture… and if I'm reading this right, the very air itself around is… changed. I wonder why…?'.
The children of Khan were also curious, as their senses were more acute not just in the physical sense but also the spiritual sense as well. Like all animals, they had a more deeper connection with nature. But as big cats, they were a bit more sensitive towards supernatural and more internal workings. And what they sensed from Star was really driving their curiosity upward.
However, both shared this thought, 'We shall look into this matter another time. Right now… there is a decision to be laid down.'.
Queen Moon shook her head slightly to get back to reality. The change in her daughter's demeanor could wait. She stood up, the rest of the royals doing the same. This made Patty, Tom and Lilacia gulp and look quite nervous… but not Star. Again, this raised eyebrows at this slightly but would look into the matter later. She spoke with authority, "Star Butterfly, Thomas Lucitor, Lilacia Ponyhead & Patty Arms. Step forward."
The four did so, the three hesitant still while Star was more composed.
Moon Butterfly spoke, "After much deliberation, we have decided on your punishment for the various deeds you four have done that jeopardized the well-being of Sir Marco 'the Mighty' Diaz. First… Star Butterfly.".
River picked up, "I hate to be the one to do this to you daughter… but it needs to be done. First off, you are still grounded from dimension-hopping & utilizing magic. And your limitation to see your friends still stand at only Saturdays, but this time it is under supervision from someone we trust. Your training schedule will also double in intensity. Your title as Princess is temporarily suspended, and you will be part of the Royal Monster Emissary as Sir Buff Frog's assistant. Your room will be sealed off and your stuff brought to a living quarters that is beside his room in four days, which is on Friday.".
Tom, Lilacia and Patty gasped as such a thing was too horrible for them. However, Star stood firm even as ever.
Queen Moon put in, "This punishment will be so for a year, and even after that we will see if you are mentally/socially/emotionally capable of being restored back to full rank and position. In this do you understand, daughter?". She really disliked being so formal to her own flesh and blood, but it needed to be done.
Star bowed her head slightly and answered in a tired tone, "I understand and… I do not have a problem with this.".
King Khan said in a mildly curious tone, "I am surprised that you are not putting up a fight as one would expect, young Butterfly.".
The daughter of River and Moon looked to the anthro tiger and replied, "I am very… tired and exhausted, King Khan. I am drained; physically, emotionally, mentally… on many levels. But… even I know this punishment is fair and would be considered light to some. But… I accept it. It's the very least I can do.". Again, many were surprised by her mature tone though some were wondering why she was speaking in such a manner that did not fit her character.
Star looked to her mother and father once more, her gaze zooming in on Moon and asked, "Mom, I… I have a lot to make up for. And… even though I did a lot to Marco, I… I know I do not have the right to know where he is. But… hopefully in the future, I can know so I can… apologize to him?". It seemed that she was still a bit sensitive indeed towards the Diaz lad.
Moon was thoughtful for a moment before she answered, "Perhaps Star… perhaps. It all depends on your attitude and actions from here on in. But know that for now, he is under MY care and protection. Do you understand?". She nodded her head, replying that she understood completely and accepted it.
The blue-haired mature beauty looked to the others, giving them the look to see if they too understood her words. The trio nodded their heads rapidly, as they did NOT want to get on the bad side of a formidable royal one and warrioress.
King Dave looked to his son and stated loudly, "Thomas Lucitor, your recent punishment from earlier still stands. You will only see Star and her friends on Saturday's, but this time under supervision by someone that we trust as well. Your lessons will also double in intensity. Also, you also have your title of Prince is also revoked. You will be working now in the Metal Construct Facility in the disposal area.".
Thomas showed shock and horror on his face as he realized that he was now demoted to a mere garbage man… but that was a cover since on the inside, he was very glad. His mind was on full-tilt scheming as he considered his new position. The Underworld had many kinds of facilities, and one of them was a plant that took broken or useless slabs of metal so they could be either recycled or melted down. This fit in perfectly with the plan he had in store to get back even with Marco as he could acquire the necessary items needed to build the device that would allow him to utilize his flash-fire teleportation ability in a different way.
Queen Wrathmelior saw her son's shocked face, shaking her head that her son was taking the news hard as she knew he would. Yet… she also felt something a bit… off about him now. The immense queen felt that something was not right, mother's instincts flaring up as she felt that something was unusual when her son did not utter any kind of rebuttal or tantrum. She couldn't quite put her finger on it, but put it on the back shelf for now.
King and Queen Ponyhead looked to Lilacia, the patriarch of the family announcing, "The punishment for you Lilacia Ponyhead is your training is also doubled, and you can see your friends ONLY on Saturdays as well under the supervision of someone we trust enough to never deceive us in their reports. Also, your royal title is revoked as well! You will not be working in the Royal Calculations Area, assistant to Karlos Neystrong. You will help him in calculating and figuring not just the amount of money we have in the Royal Treasury, but also in many other areas as well.".
This caused the princess to shout out, "WHAT?!". The sound could be heard about three or so miles from the location of the castle itself. Lilacia than floated down, a look of total shock on her face. You see, math was not her best subject as numbers hurt her head. And now to be working in the department that required accurate and detailed number calculations, plus having her title as a Princess revoked… it only added to her number of nightmares that she was doing now with her folks.
Queen Ponyhead was very sad that she had to do this to her daughter, but she had to be firm. She had to be an effective parent now, as sadly she and her husband had allowed her to get away with all kinds of things. And with her de-volving as it were in their schemes to turn Star Butterfly back to her old self as well as the plot against Sir Marco… that was the final straw. Her daughter HAD to learn from this… otherwise more drastic punishment or action would have to be done. Queen Ponyhead hoped beyond hope that it would not come to that.
Queen Seres looked to her daughter and said in a disappointed tone, "Patty, the trouble you are in is light compared to the others. But you still must be punished for keeping the engagement between Star and Thomas a secret. Royal marriage traditions and protocol is NOT to be taken lightly, especially if it is between two potent royal families. I will speak with your father about this when we get back home, but for now… here is your punishment.".
The blonde Mewnian mature beauty announced sharply, "Patty Arms, you will undergo intense royal training with me and your father King Alarico. You will be given a training schedule with us, and you WILL learn on what it means to be a true royal princess of our realm. Weapons training will be included in it. Also, you are also restricted to seeing Star, Thomas and Lilacia only on Saturdays. You can see your other friends at any given time, but you will have to let me or your father know about it. And we WILL work you hard in your lessons and training. Am I making myself clear to you on this?".
Patty was trembling as she realized that her easy lifestyle was now over; she was now in the same boat as the others, but less severe. She wanted to complain, to protest about this… until she saw the sharp glare coming from Seres. Her mother was kind, loving and protective of her. That much was true… but also firm when it came to discipline. And right now, she was showing it intently & Patty had learned after seeing some servants who were many times her mother's size being scolded by her, that crossing her was a BAD idea.
The blonde Arms beauty nodded and replied meekly, "Yes ma'am.".
King Khan put in, "If any serious breach of your punishment is discovered, brace yourself for the consequences of your actions.".
His wife Queen Aikaterina added sternly, "So do not try to be 'clever' here. I know for a fact that most young ones today try to be that in trying to figure a way out of messes and situations in order to minimize or escape their punishments. But we will NOT buy into that, not with the mess you four have gotten yourselves into.".
Hekapoo put in, "And if you think about escaping via dimensional jumps, go ahead and try. Heh… it will be a pleasure to redirect your destinations. Who knows where you all may end up when you go through a dimensional tear? Hehehehe…".
The curvy and booty-ful magical being that reigned over fire and metal grinned in a way that made the group, minus Star, gulp in worry and fear. Hekapoo had the power to change the destination of a dimensional tear when she sensed it, and with her having gone to innumerable worlds and places… who KNOWS where they would end if in coming through to the other side.
Queen Moon stated, "And finally this; all of this meeting has been recorded down and will be kept in the Permeant Records Room. So if any of you try to proclaim your so-called innocence to others in try to rally them against us in any fashion, we are prepared.".
She made a waving gesture with her hand, utilizing wandless magic once more as a large tome suddenly materialized in front of them. It was quite large and old-looking, but well maintained. It was a deep color brown with words of gold etched on the front that showed ROYAL BUTTERFLY MEETING RECORDS. It was a tome that automatically recorded meetings of only the most serious kinds that occurred in the Butterfly Castle! It magically jotted down on the various royal members that were involved in the meeting, and the decision laid down by said royals!
Luckily for the four, it did not record what took place just a little while ago.
The blue-haired mature beauty showed the important tome to the four royal young ones before snapping her fingers, returning the book to the room where it came from. It looked like the adults had really covered all of the angles so that Star and the others would not be able to get out of their punishments.
King River sighed and said tiredly, "I believe that all of this is now concluded. And that all of us need some kind of rest from all that has occurred now.". His fellow royal beings agreed, the drama and the decision of punishments taking a toll on most of the adults.
Star asked softly, "Can I go to my room now, Mother? Father? I really want to rest and… also have some quiet time for myself.". Again, her parents were surprised on how mild their daughter was, but they chalked it up to emotional and mental fatigue. They replied in a positive in granting her request, Queen Moon calling in Lady Whosits. The female knight reported in quickly, her ruler giving her the task to escort Star back to her room.
Moon did not want to take the chance of her daughter running off, despite the changes she was seeing now. Also, did not want her to interact with Tom or Lilacia for now.
The blonde former princess looked to the female warrior, Lady Whosits giving her a look of pity before standing at attention. Star gave a watery smile to her parents… than a frosty look to Tom and Lilacia before leaving with Lady Whosits. Again, the adults and the royal young adults who were with them was wondering on what occurred now that had Star look at her companions in such a manner.
Getting his senses back, King River looked to the rest and spoke, "I believe that the rest of you can go and wait in the courtyard outside. Your parents will be with you shortly. And again, do not even try to run away.".
The three nodded, seeing as they were really backed into a corner and escape not an option. Well, it was still there… but they did not want to risk any more of the wrath of their parents, so self-preservation won in their minds. Queen Moon called in Sir Lavabo and Sir Scarsguard to escort Patty, Tom and Lilacia outside, the two knights coming in and escorting the princess & ex-prince and ex-princess outside.
As they walked through the hallway, Lilacia went to Tom and hissed softly in anger, "Okay, spill it dude! What did you mean about the ring having something else than value earlier?!". The floating Ponyhead was livid now, imagining the taunting that would come from her sisters when she got back home… and they heard the news on her latest punishment.
Thomas answered softly so the knights would not hear, "The ring has a secret enchantment on it, one I alone can activate by a command word. It will allow us to put Star back under our influence and control, but only if she wears the ring. I had a feeling to have extra insurance in case something happened to Star, just like now.". It did cost a pretty penny for Tom to put the enchantment on the engagement ring, both the spell and also for the one who put said spell on it to be quiet.
Lilacia's eyes widened, than shined in delight at the prospect of getting her old B-Fly back. She then realized something and asked, "And how are you going to put it on her? The whole place is on lock-down, and she's not too good on seeing us now.".
The former demon prince replied, "I'll find a way, don't you worry about that. Just trust me when I say this… Marco is going to be VERY surprised by the time this month is through. I'll let you know more, but for now… keep your head down and quiet.".
The floating unicorn head nodded, the duo soon parting… but nearby, Patty had seen the interaction. She did not hear their words, but she felt that the two were up to something… and that involved her friend Star. She now felt conflicted on what to do, her mind swirling fast after the events that just occurred, thus she was in a tailspin on various levels.
But one things she knew was clear… that it was going to be intense for all of them in the upcoming days to come!
(Author's Notes: And… cut! That is it for this chapter! Whew… this surprised even me, and I am very thankful to the Lord for helping me out with this chapter!
Before I say or do anything else, I wish to give more praise and honor to God. Thank you Lord for all that you have done for me, my family, my friends and the many people out there that need you very much! Jesus Christ, continue to guide and strengthen us in all ways. I pray and ask for your guidance with this story series of mine here, and hope that you will help me to continue the drive with this and many other stories that come forth! I want to utilize the gift of imagination you gave to me before I was even born in your name Jesus, and want to do my best for you however I can!
And Lord, please bring this viral nightmare to an end. I really hope and pray to see the complete end & elimination of this plague called the Coronavirus on every level. And also what has cropped up due to both it & negative-influenced media.
I hope and pray to see the permanent end of masks and face-shields, of plastic walls and barriers, of distancing of ALL kinds, of contactless/touch-free nonsense, of virtual/online substitutions of ALL kinds, of excessive sanitation/cleaning, of isolation and staying at home…
More so, I pray and hope to see the end of fear/anxiety/worry/doubt/paranoia. I hope and pray to see the people put more faith and trust in one another like before, but more faith and trust in you God to keep them secure and strong while experiencing full growth and potential while outside the safety/comfort bubbles. I hope and pray to see everything, and everyone, get back to regular-normal on all levels.
So Star and the others have been punished, but it seems some dramatic changes have occurred in the young Butterfly woman! Just so you know, I borrowed elements from both Disney-Pixar's animated 2015 film Inside Out and from Kids WB 2002 animation TV series Ozzy and Drix when featuring Star's consciousness.
Star's good emotions are in control… but for how long? In addition, I left out certain emotions for a good reason. It will be made clear as the story progresses. Also, Patty seems to be conflicted with her friends splitting up like this. And finally, I hope that the drama showed here makes up for the anticipation I kept you all in at. Also, a little shout out to Author Karlos1234ify as I put him in the chapter here as Karlos Neystrong. I hope he likes it! Actually… I checked the Author's bio and it doesn't show as a he or she. So… hoping I am getting it right. If not, I will edit as needs to be done.
In the next chapter, prepare to see some Marco/Eclipsa & Marco/Janna interaction at the hospital! And also for some Marco/Kelly fluff as well, and also back to Amazonia for her to report back to her parents on what she has learned so far. Many more surprises to come as well! And expect to see more of the Secrets that Marco will be reading from the book.
Now for the questions! Ahem…
What do you think of Penelope's letter to Marco? And any advice for the young lad concerning the Acacius Princess?
What did you think of the chapter of the book Marco was reading? If Marco had found The Twelve thesis, what do you think he would do with it?
If you were in Star's mind, which side would you be on? And also, what kind of advice would you give to Star's conscience and the others as they regain control of Star's being?
What do you think of Star's actions in trying to smash the engagement ring? And also in seeing the interaction between Tom and Lilacia?
What kind of additions do you think should be added to the four young royals? To whom and why?
What would you be thinking at seeing Star's change in demeanor and stance? And what advice would you give to Patty here?
And finally this… what do you think of the enchantment that Tom secretly put on the ring that can only be activated by him? And how do you think he will be able to get it on Star?
And here is an Optional Bonus Question: How would you describe each of the emotions that was shown inside Star's head? Describe in your own way the looks, in various ways, the emotions such as Pride-Star, Humility-Star, Conscience-Star, Patience-Star, etc.
R&R, no flames, enjoy and leave LONG reviews!)