HEYO- So Im sorry for such a delayed post. I was trying to do two things- include all the little details while also dealing with writers block. I kept writing and writing, and the 'last chapter' got so long- so I'm going to split it into two longer chapters. Sorry to keep you all waiting- thank you to all who have been faithful to the story during my absence!
Birds chirped a happy song, which lulled Annabelle awake from a wonderful sleep. She blinked softly, noticing her light pink curtains waving in the light breeze that made its way through her open window. She felt refreshed and rejuvenated, though seemed slightly distressed once she woke.
"It was... a dream?" She asked herself. She still remembered everything vividly. Rosalina, Junior, the lumas- everything. The Princess sat up, and glanced out of the window to her left. Peering through the flowing curtains, she noticed how luscious and green the grass looked against the blue sky. Flags on flag posts waved smoothly through toad town. Villagers walked around, looking to be the size of ants from the princess's high up castle window. Nothing seemed to be out of the ordinary. She tried to lift both hands in an effort to stretch, yet felt something weighing down her right hand. Looking over, she saw Junior, His hair lightly flowing in the same breeze that carried her curtains. He held on to her hand gently. Her heart fluttered at the sight of him. So it hadn't been just a dream!
He was asleep in a chair that had been pulled against the side of the princess's bed. She smiled weakly at the sight, her heart growing warm at the thought of him staying by her side until she woke. It was always like him to be so caring of her. Bella looked down to her hand, which was now intertwined with his. Juniors hands were much larger than hers, yet she could still see her fair skinned fingertips through his.
She squeezed his hand gently, causing him to stir.
"Agh.." He groaned, sitting up from his awkward sleeping position. Bella stared at his face, as if it was going to be the last time she saw him. She soaked in all of his features and stored them away in her heart, never wanting to forget him again. He blinked twice as he stared at Bella. Blush spread to his face quickly.
"Morning," He said in a soft tone with a nervous chuckle. Bella giggled at him, before embracing him in another hug. Junior seemed to laugh lightly at this, thinking she was being extremely cute. They stayed like this for a few seconds before separating.
"How do you feel?" Junior asked in a serious tone, looking at the princess with soft eyes. Bella's smile faded, as she thought of everything that had happened before she seemed to have either passed out or fallen asleep. Nonetheless, she couldn't deny how good she felt to have her memory back. Nothing really confused her as she thought of everything. It all made sense to her now.
"I feel great." She answered back rather bleakly. "Are you sure? Most people don't say they feel great with a frown." Junior protested playfully, even though he was truly concerned. She seemed to laugh at this before biting her lip, unsure of what to say next.
"I'm just thinking of everything that happened," She began, looking away from the Koopa towards the window once again. Her eyes traced the movement of the curtains which continued to flow gently in the breeze. It was almost enough to lull her to sleep.
"Having amnesia didn't really allow me any time to process it all." She finished. Junior understood this, even though he'd never really considered it. Right after the fight, Rosalina had erased her memory, hadn't she?
"Nobody's going to rush you." Junior said sincerely, placing his hand over hers and catching her attention again. She smiled at him before sour thoughts struck her heart. "What about my family? Aren't they devastated that we're together now?" She said in an annoyed tone, assuming that the reason they hid Juniors existence was because of the two kingdoms and their history.
Junior sighed, expecting this reaction. "They didn't want us to meet because they didn't want you to remember everything Rosalina erased." He explained. Annabelle, being the spitfire she was, seemed to be unhappy with this answer. "Why didn't they want me to remember?"
"They didn't want you to leave." Junior answered.
Bella paused for a moment, her anger slowly subsiding. She tried to put herself into her parents shoes. She would have probably done the exact same thing had she been in that situation. She sighed, looking away from the Koopa.
"I'm sorry," She said softly, looking at her feet. "I feel... lied to." She explained. Junior understood this. "They were trying to protect you." He said with a sigh. He'd known why they'd done what they did even though he didn't agree with it. Bella didn't protest this time.
"They think.. I'm going to leave? Where would I go?" She asked, looking back to Junior with sad eyes. He blinked, shocked that she had to ask. "With Rosalina."
Annabelle's mouth hung open, shocked as well.
"I would never leave my parents..." She said, thinking about why they would believe such a thing. "Never..."
"I didn't have the right to convince them otherwise." Junior admitted, gaze shifting to the floor. He wanted to be able to argue his points to the royal family. He assumed he'd only be worse off by doing so, however.
Another moment of silence filled the room as Bella thought of what she wanted to know next. Her trust faltered for a moment, as she thought about how her parents and family hadn't been truthful to her this whole time.
Birds tweeted as they flew passed her window, seeming to bring Bella back to the current situation. She sighed once more.
"What... happened last night?" She asked, not remembering much after reuniting with Junior.
"Well... We sat in a puddle for 30 minutes before Toadsworth insisted I bring you inside. You were sleeping, though you refused to let go of my hand," He said with a smile, thinking about how insistent Bella was about not letting Junior go. The Princess blushed madly, not remembering yet well aware that she would have done that.
"Toadette... ? I believe? She helped you into bed and tied your hair up per your request," He continued, memory clear as day. "She kept apologizing to you. Over and over again. She started crying and begging for your forgiveness." Junior added, his smile fading into a somber stare as he recalled the memory. Annabelle's heart seemed to break at the thought. Her family truly thought that she was going to abandon them after having her memory erased, didn't they? An unwanted yet familiar guilt made its way to her chest.
"Where is everyone now?"
Junior blinked, as he thought. "Well, I've been up here all night so I'm not sure. Last time I heard, everyone was in the dining hall." He answered.
Bella smiled, and squeezed his hand before letting go. "I'm going to talk to them."
Junior quickly took her hand in his. "I'm going with you."
o0o0o0o0o
The tick of a grandfather clock was the only signal of passing time for the families that sat at the table in the dining hall. They all were awake, and fairly alert, taking naps on shifts. They didn't want to miss the Princess when She decided to make her appearance.
Mario and Peach hadn't slept even for a single moment, as their minds were constantly thinking. Worry seemed to consume them. Even through all of Toadsworth's attempts, he couldn't seem to get either of them to close their eyes for a moment.
Luigi and Daisy were soon able to sleep after their son who had been talking about his broken thumb aching. The situation bothered them both as well, especially after seeing how close Annabelle and Junior seemed to be. They'd woken up a few hours ago, and were now on their third cups of coffee. Benito sat next to an emotional sleep deprived Toadette. She hadn't slept at all either. Her eyes show her emotional distress.
Bowser and Ludwig hadn't left the castle, even though they'd gone outside to get fresh air. Bowser felt sympathy for the royal families situation, though he couldn't help but smile at the thought that Annabelle remembered his son. Ludwig talked to him about the kingdoms agriculture while he listened whole heatedly. His oldest son took pride in his speech, even though it held no serious importance.
Back in the dining room, the silence was broken with a yawn from Benito. "What time is it?" He asked to nobody specifically. Mario and Peach seemed to look up from the table for the first time in hours. "About seven thirty." Toadette responded, eyes not looking at the prince. She was still surrounded in her own worry and guilt.
"Seven thirty?" Peach asked, voice shaken. Toadette looked up to the queen whos emotions show on her face more than anyone. Her eyes began to water yet again, as tears were forming. "She's angry at us, I know it," She said, looking down at the table. "She's going to leave for sure..." She cried, breaking the hearts of everyone in the room. Mario placed a gentle hand on her back, as if he were telling her everything was going to be alright, even though he wasn't certain himself.
"I would never leave you."
Bella stood in the doorway to the main hall, hand and hand with Junior. Everyone turned to face the couple, as a light blush crossed Annabelle's cheeks. Junior squeezed her hand lightly, before letting it go so she could go talk to her family.
"Bella," She said, as she jumped to her feet and cautiously walked to her daughter.
"My home is here." Bella added, reassuring her family that they'd heard her correctly. Peach began to sob, but they were tears of Joy. She threw her arms around her daughter and hugged her as tight as she could. Everyone else at the table stood to their feet with smiles, as they made their way to the princess. It was as if she was meeting everyone over again.
Junior admired the scene from a short distance, giving the family moment to connect and seemingly give silent yet sincere apologies. He was happy that They were happy.
"We're... so sorry for lying to you." Toadette apologized yet again, breaking the silence. She spoke for everyone, even though nobody immediately thought of it as lying.
Bella smiled with narrow eyes, as she hid her hurt. She remembered Juniors words from earlier. "I know why you all did it. She left you no choice."
Everyone knew who she was talking about; Rosalina. She truly had put them in a tough situation, and everyone knew it. They all thought about When they'd eventually see her again. They very well couldn't expect Bella to never want to come into contact with the person who raised her.
"So... What have I missed?" She asked with an obviously forced laugh. Everyone around her tried to think of what she really meant by this. Their lack of explanation caused Bella to speak up once more. "I'm sure you've both been caught up. I was just curious," She began, eyes narrowing.
Mario and Peach looked at their daughter, feeling guilty yet again. "With... the kingdom?" Peach asked, causing Daisy and Luigi to walk in closer. After all, they'd have been the ones who ran the kingdom in the royal families absence.
"Yes... And with you all, too." She said, a genuine smile crossing her face. She walked through her parents and pulled up a chair and sat down. "I want you guys to tell me everything." She finished, looking at her family, and finally over to Benito and Toadette who seemed to return her smile.
Luigi and Daisy managed a smile as well, enjoying the fact that their niece didn't hold any ill will towards them. They all walked over and sat down in the seats they'd been sitting in previously. Juniors eyes followed everyone, though he stood frozen in place.
Bella pushed out the chair next to her, and looked to Junior as she tapped the seat, motioning for him to sit next to her. He did cautiously, noticing the family look at him with uneasy eyes.
Bella noticed this, and gently placed a hand over Juniors as if to protect him from her parents stare. It ironically made him feel a thousand times better.
"Well, where do we begin?" Luigi said with a nervous laugh, before looking to his brother who seemed unsure himself, though he smiled at a memory.
"Well, I've read some books," Bella said vaguely. Junior seemed to be the only one who knew exactly what she was talking about. "Books?" Daisy asked, speaking for everyone.
"Yes, About the kingdom and its... past," she answered looking down at her hands at the thought of the kingdoms past. She didn't want to bring more awkward attention towards Junior.
"I know that this kingdom was wealthy and powerful. Its people are loyal and strong, despite their small appearance. " She said still vaguely, yet causing the group of family to smile. Toadette seemed to giggle at this, feeling a familiar sense of pride cross over her. Toad people had been known as some of the most noble people world round, but it was nice to hear her best friend say it.
"I guess I'm asking more about you all," She began, connecting eyes with everyone in the room for a moment minus Junior. "Personally."
They all seemed to blink, still not knowing where to start.
"I first met Peach when we were three," Daisy began bluntly. It seemed as if she was going as far back as she could remember. Bella listened intently. Mario and Luigi had remembered hearing about this story, but hadn't thought about it in years. Peach seemed to smile at the memory.
"I hated her. She was pink and frilly- while I was getting mud on my dress while playing with these stupid plastic trucks," she said with a laugh, excitedly explaining their past. A crooked smile made itself known on Benito and Luigi's faces, both seeming to mirror one another. They'd always known Daisys personality, but hearing her talk about it was rather entertaining.
"And even though she'd never tell me, I knew she wasnt too fond of me either. " She said with a smile. Peach giggled softly, recalling the times. She'd have been lying if she said Dasiy wasnt right. Peach hated her guts back then.
"What made you two get along?" Toadette asked.
"Our fathers were best friends. We were forced to be around eachother for so long that eventually we just became best friends." Peach answered plainly.
"Thats an ironically plain story." Bella said with a laugh, earning a smile from Daisy and Peach.
"I helped her sneak out and go to parties" Daisy said with narrowing eyes, as she looked at her best friend with a smile. "I helped her with advanced mathematics." Peach retorted with smile herself, as she crossed her arms playfully. The two seemed to giggle at this, causing laughter from the rest of the group.
"What about.. you two?" Toadette asked to Bella, who's hand was still holding on to Juniors. The couple's faces turned bright red, as all eyes were suddenly on them. They all looked interested, even though they also looked as if they didn't want the Princess to explain. She looked at Junior, who at this point looked to be frozen like a deer in the headlights.
"Us?" Bella asked the group. They all nodded slowly.
Junior held to Bellas hand tighter, his heart begining to beat faster.
"Yeah, how'd you two meet?" She asked again, feeling more confident her her voice.
"Well, uh..." She began, trying to dig back into her recently regained memory. The princess couldn't help but feel awkward about the current situation, as she seemed rather hesitant to begin. She looked at Junior who seemed to be just as frozen as she was.
"I was seven. I just got done with another math lesson and... I asked Rosalina if I could go somewhere new," She continued. Mario and Peach seemed to cling on to her every word, having this be the first piece of her past that they'd been hearing about. Daisy, Luigi, Bentio and Toadette listened closely as well. They were finally about to get Bellas side of the situation. This had been the first time that Junior had heard this story as well, as they never really talked about their personal lives other than emotions. He payed close attention as well.
The princess laughed lightly at her memory.
"I was obsessed with you as a kid. I read all about you and the adventures you've been on and how heroic you both were," Bella said, looking to her father and then Luigi. They both smiled back in response. "Ironically my biggest role models." She finished with a smile, before looking down to her hands again trying to get back on track.
"Rosalina said that she'd take me somewhere you'd been before. I obviously couldn't pass up that opportunity. So, after my studies, we went. I played tag with a couple lumas, which is pretty much all I ever did. Other than painting, of course." She continued, giving Mario and Peach more information about her past. They soaked in every word.
Annabelle turned to look at Junior, who seemed to be calmed down enough to look back at her with sensative eyes.
Bella laughed again, remembering when she first saw him.
"I saw Junior sitting on this log on this tiny little planet. I invited him to play tag. I'm surprised he said yes, being the tough guy he is." She said with more sarcasm towards the end. He seemed to blush, feeling slightly emasculated. He remembered how Bella had called his cuffs bracelets and groaned internally.
Toadette and Benito seemed to laugh in response. Peach smiled wildly, remembering how caring she always knew Junior was inside. She felt awful for ever doubting him. Mario, Daisy, and Luigi seemed to look at Junior in a different light.
"Hey, tag can be pretty manly," Junior responded, causing Bella to laugh. "Truly the manliest sport of them all." She said. Everyone laughed at his, including Junior who's cheeks still held their redness. He thought about how happy he was to finally be visible to her. Seeing her smile helped assure him that this was the right thing to do.
"Don't know about that," A strange voice called from the doorway. All heads turned to see Ludwig with a smile, admiring the scene even if it was mainly in a teasing way to his youngest brother. Bowser stood next to him with a similar smile, staring directly at Bella. The princesses heart stopped with fear, as she was suddenly unprepared to see his presence. She was frozen, as her muscles seemed to all tense up at once.
Junior could feel her grip on his hand tighten, as he realized what was happening.
"I've always thought sword fighting was pretty manly. You know a lot about that, don't you? Ludwig said with a joking smile staring into Bella's eyes, trying to lighten the mood. Neither Bella or Junior showed faces of amusement.
Luigi and Daisy scooted closer to their son, still very cautious of their newfound 'family'. Ludwig's words cast a short moment of awkward silence over the group. Mario and Peach could feel the tension, after having witnessed the fight between Bowser and their daughter. "Ludwig, I-" Peach began, before a bright purple glow filled the room, momentarily blinding the group. When their eyes focused, they saw Annabelle standing tall in front of the Koopas, with a sword of glittering purple force field aimed towards them. Her brow was furrowed, as her breathing increased slowly.
Ludwigs eyes shot open as he stumbled back a few feet. "W-what the?!" He called, as Bowser took a few steps back as well, though he held a face of sincerity. He meant the princess no harm.
"Woah, what is that?!" Benito hollered in amusement, even though his parents were in a frightful shock. What just happened? Did Bella have.. Powers?! Toadette seemed to shrink down into her seat, though her eyes were wide with amazement.
Mario and Peach quickly scooted out from their chairs in an attempt to calm their daughter down, though Junior beat them to the punch.
"Bella, they're no threat to you." He said calmly, in a way that soothed Annabelle, yet confused everyone else, especially Ludwig.
"Y-yeah! I have no weapons! Not even a fair fight you know? Heh heh.." Ludwig Joked again, catching anther evil eye from Annabelle.
Junior sighed as he face palmed. "I'm trying to help you here, bro."
Bella seemed to snap back into reality, as she turned her head to face Junior. "Bro? As in brother?"
He gave her a smile. His calm posture was unusual to everyone minus the princess. "One of six."
Bella's sword suddenly vanished, causing the purple light to vanish into twinkling stardust that fell onto the castles tile. Luigi and Daisy seemed to blink, trying to make sure they were indeed awake. "W-what?"
"Oh goodness, I'm so sorry!" Annabelle shouted, completely ignoring Bowser's presence, and rushing up to Ludwig who was trying to dust off the sparkles Bella's sword left on him.
"No, it was my fault. I apologize," He began, still kind of shaken. "I am Ludwig von Koopa, prestigous heir to the darklands throne and part time composer." He said, bowing to the Princess who giggled in response. "Pleasure to meet you, Ludwig."
Junior smiled wildly.
"Pleasures all mine," He said, becoming less shaken as the time went on.
"Are we all going to ignore what just happened?!" Luigi asked, catching only his brothers attention who seemed to explain it to him in light whispers as to not disturb Bella and Bowser's encounter. She stared up to the father of the man she loved. He was much taller and larger than her, though this didn't intimidate her. What did however was his eyes. Though he was silent, they spoke for him. They seemed to be longing for something- begging for the princesses forgiveness.
She turned to face Junior, who shook his hands in a 'go ahead,' motion. She turned Back to Bowser, and all eyes seemed to suddenly be on her once more. "Can I talk to you... in private?" She asked, turning to face her parents. Everyone seemed shocked, including Junior and Ludwig who had no idea what the princess had up her sleeve.
Bowser seemed shocked as well, suddenly becoming nervous and intimidated himself. "I-I don't see why not," Mario said, internally sighing at the irony in that statement. Bella nodded to the group of family behind her as if to say she'd be right back. She began walking past Bowser, expecting him to follow which he did.
They had been walking for a few minutes. Bella was walking ahead, while Bowser trucked on along behind. The light tap of the princesses heels could be heard against the cobblestone walkway outside of the castle. Though there was silence, Bowsers head was filled with different speeches he was working up the effort to say in order to apologize.
"I'm sorry." He said sincerely, yet plainly, causing the princess to stop.
There was an even harsher moment of silence, as even the clicks of the princesses heels were ceased. "I shouldn't have ever done what I did. I ruined your family, and-"
"Knock it off." She said rather coldly. Bowser stopped, not wanting to overstep bounds, though he was genuinely curious as to what she could have been talking about. "I know you're upset. You have every right to be. Just let me try to explain-"
"No. Just stop." She protested. He seemed shocked still, confused as to what was going on. "You've said you're sorry enough."
Bowser blinked, not expecting this response at all. Had he really said he was sorry enough? Was that something possible of him at this point? He had literally destroyed her family for his own personal gain. How could he not be sorry?
The princess turned around to finally face the large koopa who towered over her. She had a smile on her face, which shocked Bowser even more. What did she have up her sleeve?
"Ive learned over the past few years that actions really speak louder than words," She began, reaching her small hands out, mentally asking for Bowser to place his on hers. He did cautiously. Her smile never faded. "You wouldn't have tagged along with Junior through my memory loss If you didn't intend to become a different person. I forgive you." She said. The lump in Bowsers throat slowly faded, making it easier for him to breathe around the princess who still held on to his hands.
"And besides, I don't want you walking on eggshells either. I want you to be yourself." Bella said sincerely, squeezing his hands slightly before letting go of them. "Even if what I am is a monster?" He said back coldly.
Annabelle sighed and closed her eyes momentarily as she thought of how to phrase her next sentence. "Everything happens for a reason." She said. Bowser was still extremely confused. Here was this small princess in front of him, posing no threat yet he still felt intimidated beyond belief. A light breeze gave Bowser some relief from the heat he could feel on his face.
"I mean, don't get me wrong... You... kidnapping my mother is just... horrible." Bella said as her smile faded momentarily, causing Bowsers heart to stop. 'Here it comes...' he thought, biting the inside of his mouth, preparing to take anything the princess could throw at him.
"But If you hadn't done it, none of this would have happened... I should thank you, really." She said, smile returning to her face as she stared back up to Bowser with her ocean blue eyes. He blinked, obviously still confused. Bella giggled softly, realizing how Junior and Bowser shared the same mannerisms.
"If you hadn't kidnapped my mother long ago, Mario wouldn't have had a reason to save her... They would have never met. And if you hadn't done it several times afterwards, they would have never gotten to know each other... or fallen in love," She said, looking back to the castle. The sun shone against its stone exterior, as the breeze rippled the flags on the top. The silhouetted stain glass portrait of her mother twinkled back into her eyes.
"They wouldn't have had me."
Bowser had never thought of anything this way. Though What he did was horribly wrong, it did nobody any good by constantly worrying about it. Annabelle was right. The large koopa looked down to his feet, taking in the words the Princess was saying.
"If you hadn't come back this time, I wouldn't have ever been separated from them," She said, feeling guilt come over her chest yet again as she thought about how bold she was on Bowsers airship. "I said you ruined my life, but thinking now, I think that you actually saved me." She said with a smile. Bowsers eyes locked with hers.
"I wouldn't have ever met Junior in the way I did if you hadn't."
The large koopa felt a warm blanket wrap itself around his heart. He didnt know if it was pride in his son, or pride in Annabelle being the girl Junior loved.
"I think that's why your attempts at a romantic relationship with her always fell through. Because it was destiny that Junior and I were supposed to be together."
It was a far fetched claim, though the older koopa understood it and didnt think anything of it. She was speaking more truth than he ever had.
"It had to be this way. From the very beginning- It had to be. And I don't regret anything. You shouldn't either. I forgive you." She finished with another smile.
Bowser smiled widely to her. He could really feel a different kind of understanding from her than he'd ever felt in his own thoughts.
The two walked side by side back to the castle in silence, though it wasn't a painful one such as before.
o0o0o0o0o
The sun started to fall, after a long day shared with everyone. Bella sat next to Junior on top of a cobblestone barrier that separated the pathway from the garden to the main gates of the castle. The sunset silhouetted the two as it shone its orange glow, lighting up the night sky.
Annabelle inhaled the sweet smell of the late autumn air, mixed with the sweet maple in a slice of cake that sat next to her on the ledge. She turned to see Junior, Staring admirably towards the sunset. For a moment she almost felt jealous of the look he gave it. Its orange rays illuminating Juniors fiery red hair. She felt her heart throb in her chest for a moment before blinking herself back to reality.
"Beautiful, isn't it?" Bella said, trying to stir up conversation. Juniors stare at the sun didn't fade, though he blinked softly and seemed to smile at Bella's attempt at conversation.
"I haven't seen a sunset in... years. I forgot what It was like." He said sincerely, Annabelle blinked, as she hadn't really paid much attention to the sun. She turned her head to face it, suddenly being struck by its beauty. Oranges faded into purples and pinks that looked to be airbrushed atop the white clouds that spotted the sky. Golden outlines surrounded clouds, and glistened against the rippling water outside of the castles gates. The sun seemed to glisten, and claim everything for its own. "Woah.." She said faintly, understanding the feeling Junior had been feeling. She'd never seen a sunset before.
She could hear him chuckle, as she turned quickly. He was staring at her with loving eyes. Annabelle's heart throbbed yet again as a wave of blush crossed her cheeks. "You're not so bad yourself," He said jokingly. The princess laughed and playfully shoved Junior away, though it only caused him to sway slightly.
She bit her lip, as she slowly rest her head against his bicep. His eyes widened by this act of affection, still not being completely used to their newfound relationship. It seemed to feel natural to him, however . He reached his arm around her, hugging her gently. She inhaled Juniors scent, feeling his warmth against her skin.
Her eyes drifed downward to his chest, where a very noticeable scar could be seen.
Her heart seemed to stop, as she remembered the fight, and how she'd watched Juniors death. Bella let out an involuntary gasp, causing Junior to look down to her with slight worry. Tears began to well in the Princesses eyes at the memory. "What is it?" He asked, holding on to her tighter, ready to attack anything that might have hurt her.
She silently brought her gloved hand up, and placed it over his chest where his scar was. Annabelle remembered seeing the tip of his fathers sword protruding from it, causing her heart to fall to her stomach. He felt her hand against his scar, reminding him of how he'd sacrificed his life to protect her. "Annabelle..." He said softly, raising a hand over hers, covering it gently.
Tears spilled out of the princess's eyes, as she squinted, trying to keep them at bay. His heart broke to see her like that. "Please, don't cry," He asked, feeling tears of his own beginning to form.
"Why did you do that..." She asked, already assuming the answer. "You... died..." Her voice cracked, as he pulled her close.
"I wont let anyone hurt you, Bellatrix." He said confidently, hugging her tightly. Both of their crying seemed to cease after a moment, as an awkward silence surrounded them. He called her Bellatrix... A name she hadn't heard since... Rosalina.
Junior noticed this as well, and kicked himself mentally for it though he didn't choose to correct himself. Annabelle's grip on Junior weakened as the two separated their embrace. She looked back at the sunset, seeming to be lost in thought. Junior mimicked her actions, even though it wasn't intentional.
"I need to see her again," Bella said to Junior, though she wasn't looking at him. He knew this as well as anyone else.
"How do I even get in contact with someone who lives in isolation?" She said with a fake laugh. Junior didn't smile, though he looked to her with sympathetic eyes. Seeing his face, Bella frowned. "Its a serious question..." She said looking down to her hands.
"Well, how did Toadsworth contact Rosalina? Wasn't it the brigade that came to rescue you?" Junior suggested, remembering the trio of small toads people surrounding Bella on his fathers airship.
Annabelle thought back, but didn't remember any specifics. The day they arrived on the observatory was the first day she'd seen them- according to her memory at the time.
"I guess it wouldn't hurt to ask." Bella said, Hopping off the ledge she was on, feet landing on the plush grass below them. She picked up her high heels that were set neatly against the wall. Juniors eyes widened as he followed her, jumping from the ledge and landing far less gracefully than she did. "And he sticks the landing!" He said with a laugh, pretending to boast. Annabelle laughed and clapped lightly. "A perfect 10 out of 10, might I say!" She said back, mocking the tone he used.
He rushed up to her and lifted her into the air with a spin, causing her to laugh loudly. Setting her down in front of him, she looked up to him with one of the happiest smiles he'd ever seen her with. He stared at her with adoring eyes, admiring everything about her. Her brown hair fell gently over her shoulders and across her back. The crown on her head was still in perfect placement, even through all the movement shed been doing. Her bright red dress seemed to melt into the suns rays that shone against her fair skin. Her ocean blue eyes staring up at him in a loving way that made his heart throb.
"I love you..." He said with confidence, though his face show how nervous he was. Though it was obvious, this seemed to be the first actual time he'd said it to her. He stood nearly an entire foot taller than her, yet felt so vulnerable at this moment in time. All of his love for her was painted clear as day on his saurian face.
She blushed as her eyes widened a little bit, realizing this as well. "I love you too..." She replied, making him smile widely. He embraced her in another warm hug, which she happily returned. She felt her heart throb to see him so affectionate towards her. It was something she knew she'd never grow tired of.
o0o0o0o0o0o
Toadspeople were beginning to make their nightly rounds. This involved cleaning, sweeping, dusting, and preparation for the next day to come. Toadsworth stood in the ballroom, anxious as ever. Today was a very different day for the Mushroom Kingdom, and He knew this better than anyone.
The enemy that he tried so hard to avoid was now roaming within the castle walls, and he was forced to accept it. Granted he was no longer a threat, it still made the elder toad uneasy. He'd seen Bowser and his children in a negative light for essentially his entire existence. He'd made it his lifes goal to protect The queen and her kingdom from him, and how he had just finished eating dinner in their dining hall with the royal family.
Toadsworth couldn't forget the way the the princess looked at Junior, however. Her eyes were so full of life and attention that there was no doubting her choice. She really did love this koopa, even through their families past. It pained him to do so, but he had to shake off the negative thoughts about the Darklands.
Toadette walked through a corridor into the ballroom, her nose buried in a clipboard that she was scribbling on. Though she was obviously distracted, she didn't miss a step.
"Toadette," Toadsworth called, causing the pink clad toad to raise her head and look at her elder, if only for even a moment. "Yes?"
"Where is the princess?" He asked. Her eyes softened as she thought of how to say where she was. Toadette knew that Toadsworth was still uneasy about the whole thing. "She chose to take her dessert outside. She's in the garden with Bowser Junior." She said confidently.
The meek toad girl would be lying if she'd said she wasn't off put by Juniors gruff exterior at first, but seeing how happy the princess was around him convinced her otherwise.
Much to Toadettes surprise, Toadsworths expression didn't change. It was as if he'd expected her to do that. "Of course she is." He said under his breath with a smile, thinking about how Peach would often sneak off to see Mario without his knowledge. "Make sure she gets inside before it gets too late." He requested. Toadette seemed to smiled with a nod, almost in an attempt to thank him for being so understanding.
"I was on my way to get some treaty papers signed by Master Mario; do you know where he would be?" Toadette asked.
Toadsworth scratched his chin for a moment, trying to remember. "He said he was going to have a talk with... Bowser," He answered, feeling the same odd sensation when speaking Bowsers name. "They're upstairs I believe." He finished.
"Thank you, sir." Toadette thanked with a small curtsy to show her appreciation.
The gentle tap of her brown flats echoed through the surprisingly still silence as she made her way up the castles steps. Flicking her eyes across the paper to pass the time, she re-read the text to familiarize herself with its context in case the King had any questions. The more meaningful papers having to do with the treaty had been filled out months ago. These newer ones were mainly about marketplaces in either kingdoms, trade routes, and roadways. Still very important, and crucial to the treaty as a whole.
Making her way to the top, she heard the beautiful ring of a piano, playing a melody that was very pleasing. Her mind drew a blank, as she seemed to blindly follow the source of the sound.
A door at the end of a hallway was cracked, appearing to be the source of the heavenly melody. She poked her head in cautiously, seeing a beautiful shining piano sitting in a ray of sunlight. Toadette pushed the door open a little further to see the musician.
Two large tufts of blue caught her eye- It was Ludwig. His eyes were shut as he seemed to be lost inside the music he was currently playing. She watched his fingertips dance along the keys, seeming to be mesmerized by his precision. He suddenly stopped the melody , causing Toadette to seem to snap out of her trans. Soft clapping could be heard from a newly discovered Peach, who had been sitting on a lounge in the music room listening to his music.
"That was beautiful, Ludwig." She said, looking at him with her soft eyes. Even though this Koopa was a full grown adult, he still managed to feel giddy as if he'd made a parent proud. "Thank you," he said with the light nod of a head. "Its one of my first ever compositions."
"You composed that?" Toadette asked, making her presence known. Peach and Ludwig shared the same expression momentarily, shocked to see Annabelle's adviser standing in the doorway. Dust floated through the suns rays as it still shown on the piano, filling the silence.
"Yes... When I was 12." He responded with a cautious stare. Peach wore a smile, as she knew Toadette had no bad intentions. "Wow... It's... Amazing! Could you play it again?" She said egarly, completely forgetting the paperwork she needed to have signed. Peach moved her gaze to Ludwig who seemed to smile wildly. People were finally appreciating his work.
"Of course." He answered, stretching his fingers in preparation for the encore preformance he was about to give.
o0o0o0o0o
Bowsers large frame stood silhouetted by the light that was flowing into the window he stood near. He was staring outside, looking at both Annabelle and Junior, who were sitting on a ledge to the nearby garden. Bowser felt a smile on his face as he thought about his son and the life he was going to lead with her by his side.
"How long have they been out there now?" Mario said with a slight grin, as he made his way beside Bowser, who seemed slightly shocked to hear his voice so suddenly. He didn't turn to face the Mushroom king however- he was still fixated on his son. He was silently cheering him on.
Bowser seemed rather uneasy at first, though he managed a confident response. "Almost an hour now."
Mario shoved his hands in his pockets, and stood next to the Koopa who towered over him. His eyes caught his daughters. He noticed how full of life she looked. The way she stared at his previous enemy's son, was a look full of love. It was a look nearly identical to the one Peach gave him. He smiled with a sigh, happy that she was happy.
"She's really something," Bowser said with a laugh, remembering the elegant words the Princess had used when talking to him earlier. He felt an unfamiliar warmness wrap itself around his heart as he thought. Mario chuckled under his breath, agreeing even though he didn't know exactly what Bowser was talking about. "Shes just like Peach." He answered, causing Mario's eyes to soften.
Mario suddenly felt the awkwardness he'd initially pushed aside. Here he was, standing beside a man who'd fought tirelessly for his wife's love only to be rejected. Of course, this wasn't to say that it was deserved- He didn't exactly go about earning her affection in a correct way, it still didn't cease the tension that filled the silent room.
"She really is." The king said, eyes not leaving his daughter for a second.
The couple outside began to stare at the sun. Bowser and the Mushroom King seemed to follow their stare, and look at the sunset. It was truly magnificent. It was as if it was putting on a show just for the occasion.
"I... I know you can't exactly trust me completely. But she wont be harmed with him." Bowser said in a low voice, filled with sincerity that couldn't be mistaken. It was a tone that anyone had rarely heard, which only cemented the meaning behind his words. He was being genuine.
"I know. I trust you. I trust Junior as well." Mario responded. It was a very weird experience. He'd said something he thought he never would have. That he trusted Bowser.
The door behind them burst open to reveal a panting Toadette, papers swaying to the floor as she tried to pick them up.
"I-I'm so sorry for being late Master Mario, I was distracted by something and I-" She began, pleading for forgiveness.
Mario turned around to see a frantic Toadette. Bowser turned his head as well, his attention caught by the comotion.
"Is everything alright?" Mario questioned, a look of worry crossing his face, as he made his way to the Toad girl, bending over to help her pick up papers that had scattered when she opened the door. A piece made its way near Bowser, which he bent over and picked up before gazing at it. It seemed to be page 32 of a 84 page document. Bowser had seen far to much paperwork in the past month to be interested in snooping in the current one he held. He walked up to Toadette cautiously, hand stuck out, handing her the paper she'd dropped.
She looked up at him, eyes wide as saucers. This was the first time she'd been in close contact with Bowser, and the fear was still obviously held inside of her. She meekly reached out and accepted the paper, pulling it close to her slowly. "T-thank you..." She said, eyes softening, feeling stupid for behaving in such a way.
She let out a sigh, trying to calm herself down.
"Everythings okay, Your Highness. This is the final set of treaty documents that require signatures from you. I apologize for being so late." She said with a bow towards the end.
"There's no need for that, Toadette." Mario said with a smile, accepting the clipbord with a mountain of papers.
She smiled, noticing yet again the similarities between him and Bella.
o0o0o0o0o0o0o
"Toadsworth!" Bella said in a chipper tone, as she opened the castles main doors. Junior followed close behind her, holding the door with his right arm as she made her way through.
"There you are, Annabelle," Toadsworth said, turning to face the couple. His eyes were met with the Princesses ocean blue ones. Over her shoulder was the saurian face of Junior, who Toadsworth still hadn't gotten used to. "And Junior." He added, forcing a smile. Bella appreciated his efforts.
"I had a question." She said vaguely. "It is possible that I have an answer." He responded back, easing the tension.
"How did you find Rosalina? And.. get to her?" She finally asked. Toadsworth blinked with wide eyes, wondering why she'd ask this question. Was she possibly just curious? Was it something more? He couldn't continue to lie to her, could he? He searched anywhere with his eyes that would maybe give him an answer, and they ended up locked on Juniors. He wore a seemingly positive smile on his face, though his eyes seemed to communicate a whole other set of words. It was as if he knew what Toadsworth was thinking, and was insisting that he be genuine. He let out a sigh of defeat.
"Well we had a ship. The shuttle we used to pick you up in before we rescued your parents. It's equipped with the finest tracking technology around." He answered honestly. Juniors gaze softened, obviously satisfied with Toadsworths honesty.
"Is she still able to be tracked?" Bella asked again, making Toadsworth bite his tounge before speaking.
"The tracker was linked to the observatory. Wherever it is, the shuttle can find it."
Bella bit her lip, before looking up at Junior. She subconsciously asked him for advice, which he gave her with nod. The princess let out a sigh before asking her largest question.
"Will you take me to her?"
There was a moment of silence which seemed to last forever. Nobody spoke or answered Bella's question, as Toadsworth was nearly crawling into his own skin for protection. He didn't want to see the Princess leave the kingdom again, nor did he want to face Rosalina again.
"Please, Toadsworth. I need to talk to her. I need to let her know what I'm feeling. I cant hold this inside of myself any longer." She begged, eyes narrowing, pleading with everything she had.
The sun had nearly completely set outside, the suns final rays casting themselves through the colored stained glass in a few windows. Small dust particles danced in the silence of the halls, becoming visible in the rays.
Toadsworth knew he had no choice. Junior knew this as well, as he continued to stare at Toadsworth with pleading eyes. He still managed to find himself speechless.
A light twinkle was heard, seeming all too familiar to Annabelle. She turned quickly , causing Junior to turn as well.
"L-Luma?!" She exclaimed, a wide smile brimming across her face.
Toadsworth peered through the two in front of him, and saw a tan colored star, with sparkles of light twinkling off of it. It made a squealing noise at the sight of the princess, before narrowing its eyes while looking at Junior.
Was this one of Rosalinas lumas? It had to be... This meant she was close, didn't it? Toadsworth felt his blood run cold, though he remained silent. It was as if she'd known Bella was talking about her.
It squeaked at the princess once more, as if to be telling her to run to saftey.
"Oh no no no! This is Junior. He's not going to hurt me." Bella said with a reassuring smile, grabbing Juniors arm. He nervously smiled, still unsure of what was happening, or that Bella could apparently speak star.
The luma looked at Junior, and blinked. "Um... Hello," He said with a nervous laugh causing the Luma to squeak approvingly. He floated to Juniors head, and pat him two times, causing Bella to giggle. Stardust covered his shoulders as he almost protested.
"What are you doing here? You're far away from home..." Annabelle said, holding her hands out for the Luma to rest on. He did so happily, remembering her touch. It squeaked various syllables to her, which the princess understood without question. Both Toadsworth and Junior watched the scene with confused amazement. The princesses eyes went wide as a heavy breath left her chest.
She looked over to face Junior, who looked back at her with eyes filled with anticipation.
"Rosalina is outside... She wants to speak with me."
The luma seemed to look at Toadsworth and Junior, waiting for a reaction from them as well as Annabelle. They both blinked, unknowing of what to say. They both knew she needed to discuss things with Rosalina. Of course she had to speak with her.
Toadsworths mouth opened in order to protest, but he couldnt speak. he new he had no control at this moment.
"Luma..."
Peach looked down at the group from the top of the staircase. The little star in Bella's hands seemed to do look between both Bella and Peach, shocked by the similarities. Peach looked very familiar to the little star, even though he couldn't recall exactly where from.
Ludwig followed Peach slowly, blinking as if to make sure his eyes weren't deceiving him. He seemed to be amazed, as he observed the movement and levitation of the star in Bella's hands. It was obvious that this was the first time Ludwig had seen a luma.
Peach began walking down the staircase, looking at her daughter with sincere accepting eyes. She knew this meant Rosalina was near, and felt trust in her heart that Bella would keep her word. She just wanted to see her daughter happy.
As if on cue, Bowser, Mario and Toadette walked into the ballroom from a doorway at the top of the staircase. They all noticed the Luma immediately.
"Is that a..." Toadette began, eyes widening
"Luma?" Mario finished, remembering vividly the adventures he'd had with Luma's and all the time he'd spent around them and surrounded with their company. There Annabelle was- before him with the pudgy glowing star in her hands. She'd made a connection with them as well.
The Luma in Bella's hands squealed loudly at the sight of Mario, and flew up to him in an instant. He flew around his head, littering stardust all over his clothing and face. The king seemed to laugh at this, as Ludwig seemed to observe the luma closer, eyes growing even wider seeing it up close.
"Okay, okay, settle down," He said through laughs, placing his hands up in the same way that Bella had. The Luma happily ceased its frantic state and rest on his palms. Peach and Annabelle giggled at the sight.
The luma then turned to see a towering Bowser, who even in his calm state, sent the Luma into another frantic state of fear. It shrieked loudly before finding coverage behind Mario. The little star started to shake, remembering the turmoil Bowser had put his family through.
"No, he wont hurt us. It's okay." Mario said calmly in the same way Annabelle had. At this rate the luma was extremely confused. He peered from Mario's shoulder down to Annabelle who simply nodded with a smile. The little star creature peered out from behind the king, and looked at Bowser who was now covered with embarrassment. He remained silent, not sure of what to say.
The luma grunted in frustration before quickly flying up to Bowsers head and giving him a pat in the same way he did Junior.
Ludwig, Junior and Bella all laughed in unison, as Boswer sneezed from the stardust that had covered his shoulders.
The luma seemed to catch sight of Annabelle again, suddenly remembering the reasoning for him being there. He flew down to the princess and tugged on the sleeve of her dress, pulling her towards the castles main entrance. Everyone in the room, other than Toadsworth and Junior were confused.
"What is it?" Peach asked, even though she already knew the answer. There was a moment of silence that was all too familiar to the group.
"R...Rosalina is outside. I must speak with her." Annabelle answered shakily, watching her mother force a smile. Everyone knew it was forced. The young princess felt her heart sink slowly. She knew she needed to talk to Rosalina. Everyone did.
Bella turned to face the luma once more.
"Let me grab something- I will be right back."
