Author's Note: Have to go into the story to make edits every so often.

The Coastal Village

Toads and koopas work together, frantically loading relief supplies onto Larry's vessel. To an outsider, this would be quite a peculiar sight to behold. As they work, Larry is chewing his claws - looking in Peach's direction. She is gripping her phone, preparing to call Bowser. Peach knew his anger would not be directed at her, but there is a possibility he'll lash out at anyone near him. As Peach contemplates how to tell him the bad news, a young koopa waddles up to her. Peach smiles realizing its Benny from her trip to the Darklands.

"Aww …. You can walk now!"

She bends to scoop him up and places him onto her hip. His mother runs up apologizing, but Peach shakes her head. Peach tells her she doesn't mind as the child plays with her hair. Actually, the little guy's presence calms her down. With new resolve she makes the call.

The two royals had talked a few times over the past month. Bowser often called in the evening and would bombard her with questions. He would want to know what she ate today, were the toads annoying her or what was Larry doing. Over time he started to ask more personal ones. One time Bowser asked what she got in trouble for when younger. Peach smiles remembering her angry reaction to that question. After fussing she admitted she snuck into a teen party past her curfew. But she stood out like a sore thumb and ended up grounded. This earned Bowser's trademarked laugh to her fury.

"So, you're not as innocent as you act? You like to rebel too!"

"It was one time!"

"Come on! Tell me more! I know there's more!"

"I am not telling you about that graffiti incident … oh!" Peach catches her mouth; Bowser laughs even harder. "Bowser!"

Peach enjoyed talking to Bowser though she would eventually have to kick him off, so she could get some sleep. Even then she would miss him and look forward to the next call. Bowser will be delighted she took the initiative to contact him this time. But she was not calling for a friendly chat. It only rings once and Peach hears a bass voice at the other end. "Peach!?"

"Good morning, Bowser."

Bowser is currently in a meeting with his military leaders. His tail swings in delight as he holds the phone to his face. He gets up from the table to go to a corner.

"This is a nice change of pace. You missed me?" He teases. Peach takes a deep breath before continuing.

"I have something important to tell you."

"Huh?"

"You're not in a room with anyone are you?"

Bowser notices her tone and becomes serious. "Peach, on with it. What is it?"

"Your kids need you."

Bowser goes silent so Peach continues.

"There was a bad flood in their old hometown. Lemmy is already over there."

Peach waits for Bowser's response and hears him expel steam from his nostrils. The military leaders can't hear the conversation, but Bowser's demeanor is concerning. His mouth is smoking like a furnace and his eyes are glowing. Everyone, except Koopa General, prepare to run. Bowser digs his claws into the wall, debating who to take his anger out on. But Peach's voice brings him back. Her voice is shaky but firm.

"Bowser? Bowser!? Your children need you right now. Keep it together."

Sparks escape Bowser's mouth.

"Please."

"I'll be there." Was all he managed to get out.

"Thank you. I'm leaving with Larry. We'll be waiting for you." Peach says and hangs up. She pockets the phone and looks down at Benny. "That's one hurtle covered."

Larry approaches.

"So …."

"He's not okay. But he'll be on his way."

Larry breathes a sigh of relief. "Ready to go?"

"Yes."

The koopalings' hometown is in a tropical region near the ocean. From the airship, Peach can see it was a beautiful village. There were remnants of palm trees, piers, beach houses, and coral reefs. Two days ago, a hurricane passed through. It brought a powerful storm surge that leveled most of the homes and businesses. It's a heartbreaking sight. Fortunately, there were no casualties due to koopas being good swimmers. As the ship comes in for a landing Lemmy runs towards them.

"Larry!" Lemmy shouts but slows his pace down, noticing Larry's additional company disembarking. "Miss Peach?"

Larry turns to Peach. "She's here to help."

Peach nervously adjusts her work clothes - a pink shirt, boots, and blue suspenders. The toads were wearing similar wear. Lemmy greets Peach by hugging her legs, and she pats his head. Nervously, the toads step off the ship and huddle behind Peach. In the distance koopa villagers are piling boards into heaps. They stop their work, their expressions alarm at the new company. Peach bites her bottom lip and looks around. She spots Wendy, recognizing her as the Ice Kingdom's Admin. She is currently on a roof, surveying the damage. The teen spots Peach looking at her but turns her chin up to ignore her. Toad wants to turn back around and go back on the ship. "I don't think we're welcome here, Peach."

But Toadette catches his sleeve as he turns around. Soon, the mayor of the village cautiously approaches Larry.

"Larry?"

"Mrs. Kale!"

"Is everything alright?" she asks while looking at the toads. As Larry pulls the elder to the side to explain the situation, Peach and the toads awkwardly stand. Soon the mayor is smiling and shakes Larry's hand. She then hobbles over to the other koopas to talk. Peach notices the koopas appear less apprehensive as they listen to Mrs. Kale.

Larry backtracks to his volunteers. "Sorry, they're scared thinking you were going to attack them for being koopas."

Peach frowns. "No, we would never!"

Larry waves his hands, his expression sad. "Don't worry, they had bad experiences. If they weren't getting attacked by Bowser's parents, they would be running from people blaming them for their war path. But once they get to know you, it'll be okay. Lovely community."

Larry looks around. "I kind of miss it."

"No sense dwelling on the past." Ludwig comments approaching the group. "Miss Peach. Captain. We appreciate you coming. You didn't have to do this."

"Just show us where to start." Peach turns to look at the toads, her eyes pleading with them to cooperate. Toadette smiles enthusiastically while Toad adjusts his backpack with a sigh. Ludwig divides the team into three groups. Some would help Roy with building temporary shelters, one group with distributing provisions and food, while the other assists with the cleanup effort. Peach is assigned to the latter group; Toad and Toadette are assigned to help Morton with meal preparation. The two toads are escorted to a large tent. Under it, Morton is stirring the contents of a pot as big as him. Morton looks up from his work and sees his new assistants.

"Toads? They can cut ingredients. I don't want them to go anywhere near the pot and fall in. It'll be a mushroom soup then!" Morton laughs at his own joke while Captain Toad stares at the pot in horror. Morton takes the time to wave at the princess.

"See you at lunch, Pinky!" He shouts.

"It's Peach!"

After being given instructions, Peach and a group of toads begin the process of clearing out flooded homes. The small hut Peach is assigned to has mud caked on the floor and requires a shovel to get the stuff out. Within minutes Peach was sweating all over due to the humidity.

I'm not used to this kind of labor! Peach reflects on while nearly slipping on mud. But I can do this! I can do this!

It wasn't long before Peach's hair became matted. "Yeah, I'm not used to this." She huffs in frustration and stares around the ruined home. Peach regrets her decision. But a feeling of guilt creeps up for wanting to give up; these people lost their homes. She can endure the discomfort. Peach opts to remove damaged furniture for the time being. As Peach is dumping chairs outside into a pile, she hears familiar barking. Down the street a green haired koopa is directing a pack of chain chomps.

"The structure isn't sound. Tear it down, girls!"

Peach squints her eyes, two of the chomps look awfully familiar. Wait its Apple Butter and Sugar Beans! Peach drops what she is doing to run to them. The chain chomps turn around, catching a familiar scent, and bark once they realize its Peach. They meet half-way and Peach embraces the chain chomps.

"Apple Butter! Sugar Beans! I missed you!" She coos while rubbing her hands over their heads. The boy walks up to Peach chuckling.

"They're my prize steads for chariot races. So, you're the one that trained them?" He inquiries while adjusting his glasses.

Peach pauses to look at the lanky koopa. "Yes. Are you Larry's brother?"

"Iggy's the name. And your Peach? The woman King Dad is love with."

Peach twiddles her thumbs. "No! Well, we're just …"

"No, he's madly in love with you."

Before she can counter, Iggy grabs her hand and examines it. To her surprise he takes her glove off.

"What are you doing!?"

He chuckles again and compares her delicate hand to his larger one.

"It's so small. Larger than a toad's though. And you don't have much in the way of claws. What do you do to defend yourself? Even goombas have fangs."

Peach pulls her hand away and looks down sheepishly.

"Well, I have a parasol. I can jump too."

"Fascinating." Iggy adjusts his glasses as the chain chomps go back to work. "You should take a break. You don't look well."

"I'm good! I can keep up!" Peach declares and puts her gloves back on. A thought comes to mind and she decides to ask him. "Did you find the coffins?"

"Our parents? No, but I have an idea where the water carried them. I'll leave that to Bowser."

Peach spots an elderly koopa sitting in front of her ruined home. "I saw her earlier. She's the mayor?"

"Yeah, Mrs. Kale is she's our old neighbor too. Come on I'll introduce you to her." Iggy drags Peach along until they reach the woman. "Mrs. Kale, did the old man kicked the bucket?"

Peach winces but the lady doesn't look offended. Peach reminds herself the koopas are just blunt with expressing themselves. The elderly woman stands up while clutching an album. "That old coot is helping build shelters. The entire family survived. I'm grateful for that. But …" She holds up a collection of photo albums. They were stained and ruined. Iggy nods and goes back to work. "Miss Peach, can you help her with that? She doesn't bite, Mrs. Kale."

Peach cautiously approaches the koopa and reaches for the album. "All your memories. We probably can save them." The lady sadly nods and slowly hands it over. The two work to remove the photos from the album first. After, Peach asks Berry to retrieve paper towels and a bucket of clean water. Carefully, they clean the photos and lay them out to dry. While doing so Peach looks at each one.

"You looked lovely at your wedding." Peach compliments. The woman doesn't respond but smiles lightly. Peach then lifts one with a dragon koopa with blue hair and black eyes. He is standing next to a normal koopa with rainbow hair.

"Morton?"

Mrs. Kale looks at it. "He was a prince on the run. All loud and rough. But he mellowed after marrying Annie; he had responsibilities now. He became the town's benefactor. When he wasn't traveling with the circus, he was pumping funds into our village."

"He looked so happy."

"He loved being here so much. Morton was like a son to me. I wish his brother would have left the children with me." The old koopa adds.

"Bowser?"

Mrs. Kale frowns and Peach can tell she has bad blood with the king. Peach decides not to ask any more questions. For the next few hours, Peach and Kale go back and forth salvaging any albums they can find. But after a few hours, Peach is dragging in the heat. Her pace has slowed down and it frustrates her.

What's wrong with me?

"You're pushing yourself too hard, human."

Peach pauses as Mrs. Kale continue. "You're eager to help but you have to balance yourself." Peach groans in frustration.

"You're not weak, you just need to acknowledge your limits."

Peach crashes onto the ground under a palm tree.

"What you've done is enough." Mrs. Kale says while bringing her water and a bowl of fruit. "Take this."

Peach reluctantly accepts the offer. As she drinks the water, Iggy and his chain chomps ride up. "Morton said he's ready. Hop on."

Mrs. Kale shakes her head. "Take the human. I need to finish up here."

"Oh no. I'm not leaving her here by herself." Peach insists.

"I'm fine. Koopas don't mind heat."

"You're the koopalings' neighbor. They'll worry if you don't eat."

After some fussing Iggy tosses them both on Apple Butter, and heads back for Morton. As the trio approaches, Toadette runs up to Peach.

"Peach, Bowser is here!"

Peach hears Mrs. Kale gasp.

"What's he here for?" The elderly woman demands. Peach shrinks back. There is bad blood. Is there anyone Bowser has not crossed?

"I'm sure he's here to help." Peach offers.

The lady grunts in doubt. "I'm going to give him a piece of my mind!"

At the town's square, Bowser overlooks his troops while keeping Junior in place from running off. He can tell some don't want to be there but he doesn't care.

"Your Impulsiveness, we are planning your next military campaign! Surely, the koopalings can handle it!" A koopa declares. Bowser cuts his eyes towards Jennen knowing he wants to add something in.

"What happened to your zeal for the empire!?"

"The king goes according to his own whims." Koopa General chastises.

Bowser stands up spreading his claws out to emphasize his size. "No, he has a point. The strong rules the weak. Any challengers for my position?"

The general grabs his spear. "They would need to get through me first."

No more complaints come from the others.

"None? Good."

Ever since Bowser has been more open about his emotions and less strict, he has been facing more challenges to his authority. It doesn't really bother him; he can handle it. But what worries Bowser is someone taking it out on his son. He must keep order. Before he can give instructions, a familiar sweet scent reaches his nostrils. Its mingled with the smell of mud and sweat, but it's clearly hers.

"Peach!" Junior cries out, slipping from Bowser's grasp. The princess nearly falls over from Junior jumping on her. A chuckle escapes Bowser's lips. She looks like a mess and is overwhelmed. But she's still beautiful to him.

"I found the coffins, Peach. They're in a safe spot for now." Bowser tells her as she puts Junior back on the ground.

"Oh …" Peach gives an expected confused stare. She never mentioned it but he got in contact with Lemmy for the details. Bowser felt proud showing Peach how dependable he is.

He continues. "I'll handle the relocation later." Bowser wasn't up for confronting his memories. For now, he was going to put it behind him. The living need his attention. Bowser then frowns, realizing who is with Peach. Of course, she would befriend one of his arch nemeses! The mayor. He is feeling a host of conflicting emotions. He is happy to see her alive. But he also knows what is about to come now they are reunited. Mrs. Kale angerly points at Bowser as she wobbles up on her cane.

"King Koopa! You corrupted those sweet children with your world conquest delusions. What are you here for now!?"

Some of the koopa villagers ran away to stay out of the argument. Even her husband sneaks off. Bowser growls under his breath. She was always the only koopa here brave enough to give him a piece of her mind. If she was a normal koopa he would have fried her to a crisp. But she did give shelter to Morton and took care of the koopalings when they were born. Bowser must grin and bear it.

"There's no time for us to fight, old hag. Why I'm here to help." He hides it but Bowser does feel guilty over her accusation. Yes, he's evil but he only wants the koopalings to be tough. How else will they survive? Peach looks at Bowser out the corner of her eyes, Bowser realizes she knows he is making excuses in his head. Before he can defend himself, Koopa General steps forward - clearly annoyed by the old lady.

Oh boy.

"You should thank the king for his generosity, traitor!" he declares.

Peach holds back Mrs. Kale from swinging her cane at the general. "Traitor!? I was never part of the koopa kingdom! My parents were born here. And I was born here!"

"Still a traitor!"

To Bowser's surprise, a tiny pink toad marches up to the Koopa General. The general keeps his back straight, but his head moves back from her sudden presence in his space. She stares up at him in defiance.

"Generosity? If you do a good deed only for gratitude then you aren't being generous."

Peach gasps and Koopa General's face turns red. He obviously was not expecting that sass. Bowser groans, he doesn't have time for this drama! The general stands tall against Toadette. The little munchkin is shaking but she stands her ground, further infuriating the koopa.

"I-I'm not scared of you!" Toadette cries out while Peach is attempting to pull her away, while still holding onto Mrs. Kale. The princess gives Bowser a look, silently pleading with him to break up the fight. He smiles, they're communicating on an unspoken level now.

The general brandishes his spear at Toadette. "A toad with a saucy tongue!? We'll see how …"

"Enough!" Bowser roars after feeling daggers from Peach's eyes. A puff of smoke escape his nostrils as the general backs off. Bowser turns his attention to Peach.

See I took care of it.

Peach releases Toadette and Mrs. Kale, cautiously approaching him. To his delight she cups his face with her hands. How he has missed her.

"You look tired, Bowser."

He is. Bowser wants to close his eyes and enjoy her touch but he gently pulls away. "Tired? Now where did you get that idea?" Mrs. Kale stares, her expression puzzled. Morton awkwardly coughs to tell everyone the food is getting cold.

Morton had set up long tables in the square for everyone to eat. Bowser sits in between Peach and the general. Junior, the Kooplings and soldiers all sit on his side. The toads and koopa villagers sit on the other side. Bowser smiles pleased with the large bowl Morton served up for him. Before he can take a bite, Wendy runs up to test taste.

"It's safe King Dad." She declares while glaring at Peach. Peach is not amused.

Mrs. Kale teases, "Always have to eat first before everyone, huh?" Bowser looks up from his meal embarrassed.

"W-well I'm king!"

"My bad." Morton chuckles nervously and gives Junior freshly fried chicken strips and fries. He gently rubs the prince's head and goes to finish passing out the meals. A lot of glares are now flying around the table. The soldiers at the villagers. Mrs. Kale at Bowser. The general at Toadette. Wendy nearly falling out her chair to glare at Peach. Bowser is losing his appetite. Thankfully the awkward tension is lessened with everyone collectively enduring Morton's long monologuing. Ludwig often interrupts trying to offer a new topic but to no avail. While they go back and forth Bowser decides to show Mrs. Kale a thing or two. He leans over to Peach as she eats a pasta dish. "Peach, let me try your food."

"Do you want me put some on a plate?"

"No." He opens his mouth and points at it. He wants her to feed him. He smiles smugly at the mayor.

I haven't forgotten our last conversation. Saying I couldn't find true love! I can't wait to see her face when Peach …

"Bowser, you are not a child." Peach scowls. She saw through it. Peach turns to Junior to wipe his greasy mouth. Mrs. Kale smugly takes a sip of her soup. Bowser sinks into his chair. He wanted to show the hag up, but he did want Peach's attention. He'll try again next time. Bowser notices the general shifting his legs rapidly under the table. Bowser feels winkles growing under his eyes. What is this doofus doing!? An 'ow' escapes Toad's mouth and he kicks back. The general jumps from the blow and tells Toad that was an accident. Koopa General shifts again to kick his true target and Toadette gasps. She narrows her eyes and engages in a kicking battle with the general. Bowser hits him on the head. "No footsies! Especially in my presence. Control yourself, man!"

The general blushes. "That's not what's happening, Your Judgefulness!" he splutters.

"Let me eat my food in peace!" He yells and shoves a spoonful of potatoes and beef in his mouth. Bowser discreetly brushes his foot against Peach's. He side eyes her with an innocent smile. Peach gives an annoyed sigh but she returns the smile.

After lunch Bowser rounds up his soldiers. "Get these peoples' homes back up. Anyone who give me lip about this will hear from me. Now I'll be looking after other matters."

The general salutes and motions for the army to disperse. Bowser reaches his claw out to Peach. "Peach, you'll come with me, right?"

Peach takes his hand, hers only able to grasp one of his fingers. "Of course."

"Good. Wendy, you're coming too."

Wendy's eyes widen and she stomps her foot. "Why does she have to come!?" Bowser laughs and Wendy pouts. "You don't like Peach."

Bowser smirks while observing Peach's reaction. She turns to Toadette, no doubt trying to figure out what she did wrong. Toadette shrugs. Bowser knows Wendy is thinking about that lady every time she suspects Peach. Once she sees Peach isn't like that, she'll mellow out. Bowser shudders remembering that woman. He finally shakes his head to get the memory out. "I want my two favorite ladies to get along. So, this will be a bonding experience."

With that he picks them both up and places them on his back. Wendy folds her arms and turns away from Peach. Annoyed Peach turns as well. As they leave, Wendy's brothers laugh over her predicament.

Traversing through the wooded was a pain due to the downed trees. But Bowser kept himself preoccupied talking with Peach and Wendy. The two would talk to him but not to each other. Eventually, Wendy was looking at Peach's messy hair. Her hands are shaking. She wants to fix it badly but she turns stubbornly. Finally, Bowser reaches the location. Down a slope laid a large coffin and a small one. They were covered in mud, twigs, and vines. Wendy gazes at them sadly. "They're a mess."

"That's them?" Peach looks at Wendy eagerly.

She hops off Bowser to go down the hill. Suddenly, Peach slips on the soft ground and falls forward. Wendy catches her but now, she is falling. Bowser grabs Wendy's hand and digs his feet into the ground. "Slow down there, Peach!"

"You're trying to make your hair look even worst!" Wendy adds.

Peach looks up at them sheepishly. Once safely down, they investigate the coffins for damage. Bowser meanwhile creates a staircase back up the hill using logs. Peach looks at the larger one. "Mrs. Kale spoke so highly of him." Wendy does not comment. Ready, Bowser lifts his brother's one and ask Peach and Wendy to handle Annie's.

"Don't drop this!" Wendy pleads to Peach as they lift.

"I won't. I promise."

Bowser only must carry his brother's coffin in one hand. He turns to ensure Wendy and Peach are making it. There is a bit of fussing but the two manage to get it up the hill. Technically Wendy was doing most of the lifting but they were working together. As they walk back to town Wendy begins lecturing Peach on hair care. Peach is complaining about her advice. But Wendy is slowly opening up to the princess. Still untrusting but she'll get there.

That's good for me. Bowser thinks to himself.

The coffins are returned to the graveyard once they leave the forest. Wendy's brothers are already there waiting and they clean up and repair the coffins. After placing them down and dusting his claws, Bowser tells his brother to stay put this time.

Several weeks have gone by since the storm. Bowser would leave and come back to the town to see how the reconstruction was going. Toad and Toadette returned to the Mushroom Kingdom to finish work on behalf of the princess. But Peach stayed for the entire rebuilding process.

On the last day Mrs. Kale makes Bowser and the koopalings eat at her place. Peach has been living in her home, so Bowser didn't object. While Bowser stands on her porch looking at the stars, Mrs. Kale brings him a cup of tea. "Bowser. We appreciate what you have done for us."

"Oh really? I did something good for once?" Bowser mumbles. His eyes look behind to see Wendy, Peach, and Junior on the floor. Peach is combing Junior's mane while Wendy is braiding her hair. She is wearing a blue, off the shoulders nightgown with puffy long sleeves. Bowser admits to himself he is a little jealous of Junior having her attention.

Mrs. Kale noticing where his gaze is directed at, "You're not as bratty as I remember you. I'm glad."

"You are never going to let that go?"

"No. You're still a brat. But come visit us when you marry that girl. A bit wimpy but she's nice. You be good to her."

Bowser coughs while she reenters the home. He is tempted to propose, so he goes out a distance to ease his thoughts about Peach. As he walks Bowser internally plans to make a storm wall for the town. Something else to focus on.

"Bowser?"

Bowser jumps realizing Peach had follow.

"What are you doing?"

"Thinking of plans for storm protection." He clears his throat.

"You need someone to oversee disaster assistance, Bowser."

"I never thought of that. I was too busy … It's not something we've concerned ourselves with. Darklands is a harsh place to live in. I didn't considered other areas folding over when they experience bad weather."

Peach places her hands on her heart. "I'll handle that. The toads enjoyed it."

"Well, I guess I've organized a new division in one night. You're welcome."

Peach shakes her head.

"How are you doing?" She inquires.

Bowser sighs. "A storm of emotions. Glad I can get away from here soon. I just couldn't abandon it. Morton loved this town. He should have had the throne. But he was not meeting expectations. He lacked power and had a weak body compared to a usual dragon turtle." Bowser leans up against a tree. Peach is still listening so he continues. "So, I was born and to my parents delight had the genetic lottery. The only thing they didn't like was that I was a crybaby."

Bowser gives a far-off stare and continues. "So, they would pit us against each other. Despite my age, I gave him a challenge but I couldn't beat him. Morton got tired and started a prison riot, the idiot. He had teamed up with imprisoned gorillas. He wanted me to come but I refused. I wanted to be king so badly."

"Did you ever make contact with him after …?"

"Yeah, he would send me letters and pictures. Eventually, he told me about Annie. He loved her so much. And then the kids." Bowser pauses and looks away. Peach places a hand on his arm. "One day the letters stopped. In a faraway village there was an accident during the performance. The kids and the coffins were brought back here. And Mrs. Kale contacted me. The village feared I was going to kill them all over the accident. I thought about it. But it was not their fault and they'd done nothing but good for my brother. And it wouldn't bring him back. I was ashamed it even came into my mind. So, I took the kids."

Peach looks down, contemplating.

Bowser stares tenderly at Peach. "Look at me telling you all about my backstory. I need to hear more of yours. Starting with that graffiti incident."

Peach playfully punches his arm and giggles. Bowser turns to face her.

"Peach, I want to thank you. This was not any of your business. You could have turned a blind eye. Or even rejoice over my misfortune."

Peach's eyes downcast and a pink blush appears on her cheeks. "He meant a lot to you and your kids."

"…"

"I could have been more helpful though." Peach frowns, no doubt remembering her struggle to lift the simplest of things.

Bowser feels a strong yearning for her. In his mind she is already his Queen.

"Peach …"

She looks up at him. The light from the stars are making Peach's eyes sparkle. Bowser softly gazes into them. Her gaze is intense but a hint of distress is behind them. How he wishes to wash away Peach's worries. She doesn't need to fear him. Bowser leads down towards her. To his delight Peach lifts her head to meet him. Their lips lightly touch in a shy kiss. Bowser's heart pounds from the contact. He relishes the softness of her lips and closes his eyes. She tastes sweet and he wonders what she thinks of him. Bowser opens one half-lidded eye now self-conscious, but she doesn't look disgusted with him. Peach parts to catch her breath. Her eyes are even more alluring and Bowser gently pulls her back in, placing a hand on the back of her head. Peach responds with a giggle and rests her hands on his chest. He places his free hand on her waist. A growl escapes Bowser's throat as he moves along her lips, deepening the kiss. The two stay like that for a moment. Finally, Peach pulls away and Bowser gives a frustrated groan. "Everyone is going to be looking for us." A mischievous laugh escapes her lips as she snuggles into his arms.

"Oh, alright." Bowser fully embraces her as Peach clings to him.

"I wish we met under better circumstances. I like you more when you're kind." She whispers.

"…."

"You could do so much good if you ..."

"I … can't give it up."

Peach grip on him tightens. She looks up at him, her expression full of pain.

"I don't intend to be a vassal to you forever, Bowser."

Bowser's eyes light up in amusement.

"Oh … do I sense a rebellion on the horizon?"

"Maybe."

She is serious. Bowser would never admit it, but a part of him would give up his empire for her. If only it was that easy. He has gone too far now. In his mind there is no turning back. But …

"Well, maybe a few things can change. For you …"

Bowser leans down to touch her nose with his snout. Peach smiles, a tear falling down her cheek.

"Papa? Peach?"

Shocked, the two look up and see Junior. He is standing on a tree branch. He backflips off into Bowser's arms. "Boy, what are you doing out here? It's late!"

"I was just looking for you. Then I saw you get all mushy."

Bowser's cheeks turn a bright red. "That's what you get for not minding your own business."

"Oh Papa …"

Peach giggles and places a hand on Junior's face. He leans into her hand. "Let's head back before your cousins worry about you."

While holding Junior, Bowser wraps an arm around Peach and they walk back together.

"Tanger, what are you doing in my lab!?" Antasma has a knife ready as she enters the room.

"I came to see how everything is going." She replies as she peers into the test tubes.

Antasma hides the knife under his cape with a huff. "King K. Rool has secured the shipment of poison shrooms and successfully delivered them undetected."

Tanger claps her hands but a fractured green pipe catches her attention. She looks at it quizzically. Antasma notices and taps on it.

"I was tasked with fixing it. Someone had shattered it."

"This must have been a pain to paste together. What does it connect to?"

"I think a place called Sarasaland. No clue what's over there, except that a war is going on. The king seeks treasure there however."

Antasma begins to push Tanger out. "Now get out! I have somewhere to go."

"Need help with it?"

"No, it concerns the good captain. He wanted to have a meeting with me. I'll request his assistance from Peach to install the pipe. We'll talk then."

Tanger rubs her chin. "Awfully suspicious."

"Indeed."

Tanger's eyes light up in excitement. "Anyway. I was thinking about the plan. You know the part with Peach being blamed for Bowser's murder? I was thinking why we don't give the koopas a valid reason to think Peach turned on Bowser. Let's leak to her information about Bowser's previous brides."

Antasma frowns. "They were potential brides. Everyone knew he wasn't into romance until he saw Peach. And it was the koopa queen's idea in the first place, an incident he apologized to the women for."

"NO! Embellish it for Peach! I have pictures of me and him together. Tell her he dates for his own entertainment. So, she'll think she's next on the chopping list. While he is on his campaign in Sarasaland, she'll stew on it."

"Force a breakup between them? Make the koopas think a jealous girl killed the emperor. Peach only has a crush on him, Madam Tanger. The knowledge wouldn't be devastating to her."

"Keep telling yourself that." Tanger mumbles.

Antasma ignores her comment and continues, "The koopas only need to know Peach and the toads were present during the assassination. That's enough for them. Besides, even if it made her jealous, as you claimed, it wouldn't last. Before we even make our move, Bowser will have happily explained to Peach what really happened between you and him."

Tanger looks away angerly. With a growl, she marches out and slams the door. Antasma groans and falls into a chair. That idea would be completely unnecessary and a waste of his time. Antasma silently begs that his other conspirators won't complicate things.

But he confesses to himself that he wouldn't mind seeing Peach's sad eyes again. Her reaction to King Goomba's betrayal was delightful. Her eyes are even more striking when she's afraid. How he looks forward to the day they belong to him. The bat king nearly lost his composure when the princess hugged him. He really wanted to sink his fangs into her throat at that moment. Just to see her fear and terror. His eyes glow at the thought and he slaps his face to maintain the small veil of sanity he has. Focus. All in good time. All in good time. Peach thinks he is a friend. But she'll come to fear him. In due time.