Chapter 10: Letters for the Mailman.
Parakarry woke up early in the morning. He stretched and spread out his wings, feeling stiff. He decided to use the bathroom first and then take a shower. After taking a bath, he picked up his toothbrush and began brushing his teeth. He washed his face to fully wake himself up. He put on his uniform along with his shell, and went over to his desk. He looked at the letter he written for Lady Bow. This was it. Parakarry could feel his heart pounding as he folded the letter back into its envelope and sealed it shut.
Parakarry grabbed his mailbag and slung it over his shoulder, making sure the letter was secure inside. He double-checked his uniform, ensuring that everything was neat and in place. Satisfied with his appearance, he took one last look around his room before making his way to the kitchen. His stomach growled in hunger. He opens the fridge thinking about what to eat. He saw bacon and eggs on the top shelf. He picked up a jar containing jelly. Can't go wrong with bacon, eggs, and toast. He fried the eggs and bacon and placed the bread in the toaster. He made himself a cup of coffee while waiting for his breakfast to cook. The aroma of the sizzling bacon filled the air, mixing with the scent of freshly brewed coffee. He took a sip, savoring the rich flavor as it made him feel wide awake. When the food was ready, he sat down at the table enjoying his food. He thought about Parakara. She was probably still sleeping.
As he chewed on a piece of crispy bacon, he pondered how he could break through Parakara's defenses. He knew that her troubled relationship with her parents had left her feeling isolated and misunderstood. Parakarry wanted to be the one person she could confide in, to offer her support and understanding. Parakara did manage to open up to him about her dad, but he could tell that she was still guarded.
Finishing his breakfast, Parakarry felt a renewed sense of hope. He cleaned up the dishes, his mind filled with plans on how to reach out to Parakara. He knew it wouldn't be easy, but he was willing to do whatever it took to help her.
As Parakarry stepped outside, the crisp morning air filled his lungs. He spread his wings, feeling the warmth of the sun on his feathers. He took off into the sky, flying towards the post office. The postmaster was at the counter. Sorting through the bag of mail for the day. He turned his head when he heard the door open.
"Parakarry. You have some letters this morning." He said.
"I do?" He went over to the counter. The postmaster gives him his mail. The younger paratroopa opens up the letters.
"Dear Parakarry,
Your niece is such a doll to have in my class. She's always eager to learn and is very sweet. She has trouble with some assignments but I know that she tries her best. She reminds me of myself when I was her age. I'm sure she will go far after high school. Thank you for being her guardian and for keeping an eye on her. Please let me know if I can help.
P.S. I haven't received a letter from my parents in a long while. You see...their...occupation; requires them to travel by sea 24/7, and the only way I can hear from them is by mail. They usually write to me, and I want to know if they're okay. If their letter is lost, could you find it for me please? I'd greatly appreciate it.
- Koopigan Sushi. (A.K.A Mr. Sushi)"
Parakarry smiled at the letter and looked at the next one.
"Dear Parakarry,
Parakara is a good student. She's so shy, but she tries her best to come of her shell whenever she has to act something out. (Figuratively of course.) I'm writing to you, because she told me something disturbing. I offered her to take her to the counselor's office but she refused. I know you're busy delivering mail, and I'm sure the job is stressful and not easy; but could you please find some time out of your schedule to come meet with me? Your niece is such a sweet girl and I hate to hear that something terrible is happening to her.
- Spindall Spinner (A.K.A Mr. Spinner)"
Parakarry looked worried, maybe it was about the bullies Parakara told him about the other day? That was probably it. He opens the next letter.
"Dear Parakarry,
Where is the gift my mother sent!? She sent it weeks ago! It's supposed to be a gift for my daughter! I know you lost it! I'm missing some beauty products as well! They're from Poshley Heights! Do you know how much coins that costs!? How do you still have your job!? You have always been the slowest mailman, but this is ridiculous! Just because you're a hero now, you think you can be even slower!? You should be fired! Find my stuff!
- Katherine Koopa"
"Must've gotten lost while being shipped to the Mushroom Kingdom." Parakarry thought shaking his head as he reads the next one.
"Dear Parakarry,
A few days ago my siblings from Goom U came to visit my family and I. They told our parents that they sent all of us some postcards when they were studying abroad but we never received them. Could you find them for us please? Also, you're my favorite hero! I think it's cool that we have two heroes living here in Koopa Village. But I think you're the best!
- Bobert Koopa"
Parakarry looked at the name. "Bobert?" That was Parakara's friend. The letter made him smile.
"Dear Parakarry,
Parakara is really nice. I hardly talk to anyone because I'm a gloomba. Lots of people think we're nasty. The other kids treat me like I'm a walking disease. It's understandable though. My kind do live in the sewers. But Parakara didn't seem to mind me being one. Maybe that's why she's so nice. She's related to a hero. I would like for her to come over to my house one day. I understand if you don't want her to though. The sewers is pretty gross. But it would be nice to have someone visit me once in a while.
- Gloombarias Gloomy"
Parakarry felt bad for the poor girl. She must be lonely, and sad because of her situation. He made a mental note to ask Parakara if she wanted to visit her.
"Oh I forgot. You had a package too." The postmaster handed it to him. Parakarry was surprised. He didn't order anything. He opens the package revealing a painting of a black and white rabbit. A letter came with it. He reads it.
"Dear Parakarry,
Parakara made this! I had asked the class to paint their happiest memory and she painted a pet rabbit she used to have. She said his name was Cookie. I was planning to put it on display for an upcoming art show, but then I heard from a coworker that you're her uncle! I thought you should keep it. You helped save our kingdom after all. I think you should have something that your niece made. Consider it a gift! By the way, your niece is such a gem! She enjoys painting and pottery. I hope she continues to express herself through art!
- Serenie T. "
"It's a painting Parakara made in school." Parakarry smiled brightly.
"How is she by the way?" Asked the postmaster.
Parakarry's smile slowly faded as the postmaster's question lingered in the air. Concern etched across his face as he tried to find the right words to express the complicated situation with his niece. "Parakara... she's been going through a tough time." The younger paratroopa began, his voice tinged with sadness. "Her parents... well, they're not exactly getting along. Her mother, Kamala, sent her to stay with me for a while, hoping it would help."
The postmaster nodded, his expression sympathetic. Parakarry continued, "She's getting a little better though, she's opening up. But she's still apprehensive."
"I hope she gets well again." the postmaster said, concern evident in his voice.
Parakarry sighed, his eyes filled with a mix of worry and hope. "She's adjusting, but it's not easy for her. She's been through a lot, and it's left her feeling isolated. But I'm doing my best to support her and create a safe space for her to be herself."
The postmaster placed a reassuring hand on Parakarry's shoulder. "I'm glad she has you, Parakarry. You've always been kind, caring and hardworking."
Parakarry smiled gratefully. "Thank you, sir. It means a lot to hear that. I just hope that Parakara finds the strength to heal and grow from all of this."
The postmaster nodded, his face filled with empathy. "I have faith in her. If she ever needs anything, don't hesitate to let me know."
Parakarry's heart warmed at the postmaster's kind words. This was the first time he's seen this side of the postmaster. It was as if a hidden layer of kindness had been unveiled by the layer of sterness.
"Thank you again for your kind words," Parakarry said, his voice filled with genuine gratitude. "I must admit, I've never seen this side of you before."
The postmaster chuckled softly, a hint of vulnerability in his eyes. "You know, Parakarry, I've been a mail carrier for many years, before I became a postmaster. It's easy to become consumed by the demands of the job. But every now and then, there are moments that remind me of the importance of compassion and connection."
"What do you mean by that, sir? Are there specific moments that stand out to you?"
The postmaster nodded, a wistful smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "Yes, indeed. One such moment was a long time ago when a young toad, came to me with tears in his eyes. He had received a letter that a favorite relative had died...and it seemed like his world had shattered. In that moment, I realized that my role wasn't just about delivering mail; it was about being there for the people of Toad Town, providing comfort and support when they needed it the most."
Parakarry thought back to the time he comforted Bow. "That's amazing. I never realized the depth of our impact on the community."
The postmaster nodded, his eyes shimmering with a mix of pride and humility. "It truly is, Parakarry. Seeing you and your niece, Parakara, reminded me of the importance of empathy once again. Life can be tough, but sometimes all we need is someone to show us a little kindness."
Parakarry smiled warmly, thankful for the postmaster's newfound openness. "Thank you for sharing that with me. I think I know how to help Parakara now."
The postmaster's eyes twinkled with approval. "I have no doubt that you'll be a guiding light for Parakara, Parakarry. Remember, even the smallest acts of kindness can have a profound impact on someone's life."
Parakarry nodded, the postmaster's words echoing in his mind. "Sir, do you want an apprentice? Parakara said she wants to be a mail carrier." The postmaster's eyes widened with surprise at Parakarry's question. He looked at Parakarry, his expression thoughtful.
"An apprentice, you say?" the postmaster pondered, stroking his chin. "Is she anything like you?"
"Well...she is a bit clumsy, but very bright." Parakarry awaited anxiously the postmaster's response. The idea of having Parakara as his apprentice filled him with both excitement and nerves.
The postmaster paused, his eyes flickering with contemplation. "Clumsy, you say? Well, Parakarry, being a mail carrier requires a certain level of coordination and agility. However, it's not just about physical abilities. It's about attention to detail, problem-solving, and a strong sense of responsibility."
Parakarry nodded, his mind racing with ideas on how to help Parakara overcome her clumsiness and develop the necessary skills. "I understand, sir. Parakara is incredibly bright and resourceful. With the right guidance, I believe she can excel in this role. You won't get another me. I promise."
The postmaster smiled, a glimmer of excitement in his eyes. "Very well, Parakarry. I'm willing to give it a try. Bring Parakara to the post office tomorrow, and we'll start her training. But remember, it will require patience and perseverance on both your parts."
Parakarry's heart swelled with gratitude. He thanked the postmaster profusely for the opportunity and promised to do his best in guiding Parakara. As he left the post office, he thought about seeing Parakara in her uniform and working together. But another thought came to his mind. What about school? How would she be able to go to school and deliver mail at the same time?
Deep in thought, Parakarry decided to seek advice from Mario. He knew that Mario had a knack for problem-solving and could provide some valuable insight. Parakarry made his way to Mario's house, hoping to find a solution.
As Parakarry arrived at Mario's doorstep, Watt and Mario Jr. were playing with polterup like usual.
"Watt!" Parakarry called, the little girl looked up.
"He wrote back to you." Parakarry gives her the letter. Watt showed the letter to the young black yoshi.
"He said you could come! This is going to be so fun!" Watt said.
"Yeah! An adventure to Lavalava Island sound cool!" He said in agreement. Parakarry smiled at the sibling's excitment.
"Watt is your dad home? I need to speak to him about something." Parakarry said.
"He is, we'll get him." Watt and Jr. goes back inside. Mario came outside, sensing the paratroopa's troubled expression, Mario invited him inside and offered him a seat.
"Hey, Parakarry. You look deep in thought. What's on your mind?" Mario asked.
Parakarry sighed and explained his dilemma, expressing his worries about Parakara's education suffering due to her new job at the post office.
"You have a niece? I didn't know that."
"Yeah, she's been living with me for a while now. She's really sweet."
"You have a niece!? Can I play with her sometime!?" Watt asked excitedly. Parakarry smiled warmly at Watt's excitement. "Sure, Watt, I'll ask Parakara if she'd like to meet you. I think she'd enjoy having a new friend to play with." Watt smiled excitedly and headed back to her room. Mario tuned to Parakarry thinking about what he told him. After a moment of contemplation, his eyes lit up with an idea.
"I think I might have a solution, Parakarry." Mario said. "What if you met with her teachers to create a flexible schedule for Parakara? One that allows her to attend school and fulfill her duties as a mail carrier?"
Parakarry's eyes widened with hope. "That sounds like a great idea, Mario. But how would it work?"
"You could coordinate with the school to adjust her class schedule. Perhaps she could have shorter school hours in the morning and then work at the post office in the afternoon. This way, she'll have time for both education and her new job."
Parakarry's face lit up with relief and gratitude. "Mario, you're a genius! That plan could really work. I'll discuss it with the school and see if they're willing to accommodate Parakara's new schedule."
Parakarry thanked Mario for his idea before flying off.
Parakara woke up from her bed yawning. Sugar was out on the end of her bed. His side rising up and down; his sleep bubble growing and shrinking with each breath. The sun was shining brightly. Parakara sat up and stretched; she rubbed the tiredness out of her eyes before getting out of bed. She opened the attic door and flew downstairs. She didn't see her uncle. She checked his bedroom. He wasn't there either. Parakara guessed he's an early riser. Curious, the young paratroopa when inside.
The room didn't have anything special. It was just a plain bedroom. The walls were light blue, and the carpet had a tan color. On the wall was a photo of her grandfather. The reptilian man had gray hair, an elegant mustache, and blue eyes. Next to the picture was a picture of a female adult paratroopa. The woman looked similar to her dad and uncle. She had strawberry blonde hair and blue eyes. This must be her grandmother.
Parakara flew over to her uncle's bed. The headboard was light blue in the shape of a shell. The comforter was light blue with white clouds covered on top. Across from the bed was a light blue dresser with a rectangular mirror on top. Something in the side of the mirror's frame caught Parakara's attention. She picks it up. It was a picture of a pale boo lady with red eyes. She was wearing a victorian styled mint dress with a red corset and gold lacing. Her mint hair was up in twin buns. Both buns had a red ribbon with gold accents. She was wearing mascara, dark mint eyeshadow, and red lipstick. Who is this lady? A friend of her uncle's? Parakara thought she looked so pretty. She placed the picture back.
One the dresser was a square shaped picture frame of her uncle in his uniform smiling. He looked younger than he is now. This picture must have been taken when he completed his training as a mail carrier. Parakara opened his drawers. The top contained white undergarments; the second had white socks; The last one held brown winter gloves.
After closing the drawer she opened her uncle's closet door. He had light blue shells. Some of his light blue shirts had the mail logo on the postmaster's uniform. While others did not. There were khaki pants and shorts, brown work boots, On the shelf were brown helmets with goggles attached to them and what appeared to be a spare mailbag.
He had a few jackets that matched the color of the gloves. Some of his jackets had the mail logo on it. He probably wore the jackets and gloves when he delivers mail during cold months. At the back of the closet were dress shirts in light blue. Some of them had gold trimming. His dress pants were in tan. He had a couple of brown dress shoes.
Parakara closed the closet door and checked out the bathroom. It was blue like the bedroom. It had a sink, a toilet, bathtub and shower. The shower curtain was pushed back, though it appeared to have ocean waves on it. In the tub was a shower chair. Parakarry probably used it whenever he felt too sore to stand from carrying letters and packages all day. On the bathroom walls were paintings of beaches. The paintings had different styles and all had vibrant colors.
She went to the kitchen and decided to make waffles and koopa tea. She took the kettle and filled it up with water. She placed it on the stove to get it boiling. Next she grabbed the ingredients and started making the waffle batter. As she stirred the batter; her phone rang. She's been putting off the call long enough. She picked it up and sighed. "Hi mom."
"Morning Kara! How are you this morning?"
"I'm fine." She said curtly.
"You don't sound like it..." Kamala said.
"I'm trying to make some waffle batter and you called me."
"Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to bother you. I just wanted to talk to you. You haven't called me since you moved, and you didn't return my calls..." Parakara took a deep breath and tried to ease the tension in her voice.
"I'm sorry, Mom. I wanted time to myself, to adjust."
Kamala's voice softened. "I understand, sweetheart. I just miss hearing from you and knowing how you're doing. Are you settling in well at your uncle's place?"
"Yeah, it's great actually. Uncle Parakarry has been really nice to me. I don't have to hear you and dad fight all the time. I don't have to endure dad calling me names anymore, and I don't have to listen to you complaining about him losing the house in Poshely Heights or squandering Parakaro's death money. Uncle Parakarry's house isn't gross or cluttered either." Parakara said, she paused for a moment, gathering her thoughts. "You know, Uncle Parakarry actually listens to me. He's patient and understanding. He doesn't dismiss my feelings or brush them aside like you do. He's been there for me when I needed someone to talk to, and he genuinely cares about my well-being."
Kamala's voice trembled with emotion, "I...I am there for you Kara...I always comforted you whenever you told me you wanted to hurt yourself...I never wanted things to be this way, Kara. I'm sorry for everything you've had to go through. I'll try to do better, I promise."
"I'm tired of your empty promises mom." Parakara's grip tightened on the phone, her voice wavering slightly. "I know you love me. But sometimes, I just feel like you're not really listening to what I want. I've tried to talk to you about it, but it's like you always find a way to avoid the conversation."
There was a moment of silence on the other end of the line. Parakara could imagine her mom taking a deep breath before responding. "You're right, Kara. I haven't been the best at addressing your concerns, and I'm sorry for that. I want to be there for you, but I need you to understand that it's not easy for me either."
"I get that, Mom. I want us to be a family again, but I don't see that happening as long as we stay with Dad. I want it to be where it's just us two."
Kamala's voice was filled with regret. "I wish it were that simple, sweetheart. But life is complicated, and sometimes we have to make difficult choices for the sake of everyone involved."
Parakara's frustration bubbled up again. "But why can't we make that choice, Mom? Why can't we leave him and start over? I can't stand living in that toxic environment anymore."
Kamala let out a sigh. "It's not that easy, Kara. There are so many factors to consider, and your safety and well-being are always at the forefront of my mind. I promise you, things will get better."
"Like I said mom, I'll believe you when I actually see the change."
"I understand, sweetheart. Just know that I love you, and I'll keep doing my best to support you, even if it doesn't always seem that way; and please, let's try to communicate more, okay? It's important for both of us."
"Fine mom. I'll try to call you more often."
"Thank you, Kara. That means a lot to me. Now, how about you finish making those waffles? Maybe we can have breakfast together sometime."
"How?" Parakara asked.
"Well I'm heading to Toad Town."
"Why?"
"To get some things. Plus I wanted to see you." Parakara felt herself getting angry again.
"This is what I mean mom! You do the exact opposite of what I want! You wouldn't have to visit if you left dad first!" Parakara said angrily at her mother when she mentioned her plan to visit Toad Town instead of addressing her daughter's concerns. The tension between them was palpable, and it seemed like their communication was breaking down once again. Parakara couldn't understand why her mother continued to prioritize other things over their own well-being.
"So you don't want to see me?" Kamala said in a downhearted tone.
"Mom! I want you to leave dad and then move back in with you! You wouldn't have to visit me if you'd just listen to what I want!" Parakara took a deep breath as she tried to control her anger. "Mom, I need you to listen to me for a moment." Parakara said, her voice filled with a mix of frustration and desperation. "I know you love me, and I appreciate that. But I need you to understand that staying in this toxic environment is affecting me deeply. It's affecting our relationship too."
"Kara, I hear you. I understand your pain, and I'm sorry for the choices I've made that have hurt you." Kamala said, remorsefully. "I want you to know that I'm taking steps to make things better. Believe me, this visit is going to mean something."
"I want to believe you, Mom. But I've heard promises before, and I want to see real action this time."
"I understand, Kara. Actions speak louder than words, and I promise you, I'm doing everything in my power to create a better life for us. It may take time, but I'm committed to finding a way out of this toxic environment. You deserve better, and so do I."
"If you say so mom. I'll talk later." Parakara hangs up before her mom can say anything else. The tea kettle whistled. Kara picks it up and pours the tea into a cup. She set it aside to let it cool and stirred the waffle batter once more before pouring it into the waffle iron. She made three waffles. She spread butter on them and added a bit of syrup. She didn't like drowning her waffles. She wanted to taste the butter as well. She cut up some strawberries and bananas and sprinkled them all over the waffles. Breakfast was ready. She cut up her waffles and started eating.
While she ate She saw some pictures stuck on to the fridge with magnets. She sips her tea looking at them; The first one was of her uncle holding her brother. Like her, Parakara's brother had strawberry blonde hair and blue eyes. He brother was very young in the picture. He didn't have his flight feathers yet. Parakara felt sorry for her him. Even when he was old enough to have his flight feathers, he still wasn't able to fly. He was born with deformed wings. He couldn't even walk or speak. Parakara couldn't imagine a painful existence like that. Parakara began to think about Bobert. Her brother couldn't be helped. But maybe she could help Bobert? She didn't know anything about making fuses though.
She saw that her uncle looked really young in the picture. He looked like he was about 10 or 11. She looked at the next picture. It was of her uncle cuddling her as a baby paratroopa. Her uncle still looked like he was about the same age as in the picture of him with her brother. That would mean she would had to have been 1. Maybe a few months old?
Parakara closed her eyes trying to think. If her brother didn't have his flight feathers in yet that meant he had to have been 4 or 5. Maybe 6? She was an infant. Her uncle appeared to be 10 or 11. So that meant during that time, Her parents had to have been 20 or 21...If what her uncle said is true, and her mom was pregnant with her brother as a teenager...and they joined Koopa Troop at 18...that would mean she went awol when she realized she was pregnant with her. Not Karo. Her mom really did lie to her. Parakara decided to confront her mom when she arrives in Toad Town.
The third one was a picture of her uncle. He was about the same age as he is now. He was in his uniform. What caught Parakara's attention though was the people he was with in the picture. A man with a red hat, brown hair, blue eyes, black mustache, red shirt, blue overalls, and brow shoes. A goomba kid wearing a blue hat, a light yellow shirt, blue overalls, and brown shoes. A blue shelled koopa that looked a little older than her, wearing a red bandana, a blue vest, white shirt, blue jean shorts, blue boots and a bandaid on his cheek. A cute bob-omb that had a blonde fuse in the shape of a ponytail. She looked like she could be around the koopa's age. She was in a pink vest, a pastel yellow crop top, and pink pants and brown boots. The same boo lady Parakara saw in her uncle's room. The boo was smiling as she was holding her fan. Parakara thought she looked elegant. An adorable lil' sparky with a light blue pacifier in her mouth. Her blonde hair looked extremely curly. She had on a light blue cardigan a cute yellow dress, and yellow sandals. A purple cheep cheep lady. She looked like she might be about the same age as her mom looked. She was dressed like she was some sort of nanny. Last was a spikey green haired lakitu wearing shades, a spikey black leather jacket, a striped green and white shirt underneath, black fingerless gloves blue jeans, and black combat boots.
Parakara already knew who the man was. It was the one and only Mario. Her mother would tell her stories how her father always came close to defeating him every time he came to rescue Peach. Parakara always asked her how she never got attacked by Mario. Her mom never answered her. She always beaten around the bush and said she was responsible for healing him and the battalion he was with. Parakara guessed that her mom always healed the squad but would end up fleeing whenever she was the last one standing in battle, and didn't want to admit it.
The last picture looked like it was taken at what appeared to be a parade. There was a blue and white starship. The goomba kid was sitting in the front enjoying the parade. The koopa was at the back waving at the baton twirlers. The bob-omb was sitting on the side of the float enjoying her time like the goomba. There was her uncle in the air throwing confetti from his mailbag. The boo lady flying at the back of the float showing off her fan. The lil' sparky floating at the side looking so happy. The cheep cheep was in mid air. She probably was jumping around having the time of her life. Then there was the lakitu floating in the front of the ship waving his hand, looking like he was enjoying the attention. She didn't see Mario. If this was a parade he was probably on a float with Peach. Parakara wanted to know who these people were. She had a feeling that these were the rest of the heroes who accompanied Mario on his adventure.
The teenage paratroopa finished her tea and waffles with fruit. She picked up the dirty dishes and washed them. She thought about the weekend she spent with her uncle. They were happy and healthy. At least she hoped they were. She still feared that one day her uncle was going to yell at her about something. Like a missed curfew or a bad mark on homework. She sighed. She decided to stop worrying about it. The relationship with her uncle was more normal than the one with her parents. That's for sure. She looked at the clock on the stove. Almost time for school. She went to the bathroom to shower and brush her hair. When she flew up the attic she was greeted by Sugar chewing on one of her boots.
"Sugar." Parakara said, a little vexxed. She'll ask her uncle for another pair of boots. She put on the outfit her uncle bought for her before placing her shell on her back. She slipped on a pair of boots that Sugar hasn't used as chew toys; and fixed her hair and makeup last. "Bye Sugar." She leaves the house heading to school. Outside, everyone seemed to be excited.
"He asked me to the school dance!" Katrina said. So that was what the excitement about as Parakara recalled seeing the balloons and decorations in the halls.
"The goomba?" Paratricia asked.
"Yes."
"What happened to your boyfriend?" Lakilayla asked.
"I wanted to go with him, but he never brought it up. Whenever I ask him he said he will or just shrugs it off. I think he's cheating on me."
So that was what the excitement about as Parakara recalled seeing the balloons and ribbons in the halls. She thought how funny it would be if it was one of Katrina's friends, her boyfriend was cheating on her with. Of course, she wasn't one to stir up trouble. Instead, she just flew past them not saying anything.
"It's the freak." She heard the paratroopa say. Parakara simply ignored them. "Hey, Parakoon, you have a date for the dance?" She pesters.
"She probably had one and then he broke up with her before the dance." Katrina said.
"I saw her talking to Mr. Sushi the other day. He gave her a bag full of maple candy." Lakilayla said.
"Aw, she's so ugly that she has to go after older men. Poor her." Katrina said.
"Just ignore them Parakara..." She thought to herself, she felt a spiney hit her on the back of her head.
"Hey, witch! Do you have a date for the dance?" Lakilayla asked.
"If only you knew that I really am magic..." Parakara thought. "Is your date Katrina's boyfriend?" Parakara says to her. The lakitu throws another spiney at her. Luckily, Parakara moved away on time.
"No point in hitting her again. Parakoon is just mad because her date broke up with her." Katrina said.
"That's a lot of confidence for someone who could be having their boyfriend stolen by one of their best friends."
"Because I know it's not true. Besides, I least I have a date." Katrina said.
"Hope you don't get anything else at the end of the dance." Parakara counters. Paratricia shell shots Parakara. She got in her shell before she could take any damage.
"She got dumped by a bob-omb that can't explode. Imagine how ugly you have to be." Lakilayla said. All three girls screamed as they got headbonked by a goomba.
"Leave Parakara alone!" Gloombarias said, Parakara was surprised. Gloombarias was always so soft spoken. This was the first time hearing her shout.
"We got touched by a gloomba! We need to wash our hair!" Katrina said freaking out.
"Let's leave Freak and Sewer dweller!" Paratricia said. The three koopas left. Gloombarias went to Parakara.
"Are you okay Parakara?"
"Yeah I'm fine. Just a minor bump...that's the first time I heard you shout." She said, Gloombarias blushed.
"Yeah...I didn't want them to keep hurting you...you're my only friend." She said.
"You consider me a friend?" Parakara asks.
The gloomba nodded. "You've been nice to me."
"Then it's my job to protect you!" She exclaimed with a smile. Gloombarias smiled back. "Thanks for stopping those girls." The paratroopa adds.
"Don't mention it...they are bullies. They throw stuff at me all the time, especially trash. They don't want to touch me." Gloombarias responded back.
"But now you've made things worse for yourself since you attacked them." Parakara says.
"If they ever bother me again, I'll tell them to go suck a lemon." The gloomba said. The two laughed. "Anyway, let's continue on our way." Gloombarias said as she walked off. Parakara followed after her, heading towards her locker, Parakara noticed a small note tucked inside. Curiosity piqued, she unfolded it and read the words carefully written in neat handwriting. It was an anonymous message.
"Meet me by the old oak tree after school. I have something important to tell you."
"Ooh! Someone likes you!" Gloombarias said reading the note with her. Parakara's heart skipped a beat as she considered the possibility. She would like for someone to show genuine interest in her, but she couldn't help but feel a twinge of skepticism. The past pranks and bullying she had endured left her cautious and unsure of others' intentions.
Gloombarias, seeing Parakara's mixed emotions, stepped closer and placed a comforting hand on her friend's shoulder. "Don't worry, Parakara. If this turns out to be a prank, I'll be right there by your side. We'll face it together and show them that they can't bring us down."
Parakara's lips curled into a grateful smile. "Thanks, Arias. I think I'll take you up on that offer. Let's go together and find out who left this note." The two friends walked down the hall. "Oh, I wanted to ask. Are you a witch? People here have been saying you are."
"Where did they get me being a witch from?" Parakara asked, her voice filled with confusion.
"People have been saying that you had hit Katrina's boyfriend with magic the other day."
"You want to know a secret?"
Gloombarias's eyes widened in surprise and nodded eagerly. "Yes."
"I am. My mom is a magikoopa. I hit him with magic to make him let go of my wings." Parakara said quietly to Arias.
Arias gasped, her eyes wide with amazement. "That's incredible, Parakara! You have magic powers?"
Parakara nodded, "Yes, but I've always tried to keep it a secret."
"Why?"
"Ever heard of a paratroopa that can use magic?"
"No, I haven't. But that's amazing! You have this incredible power, and you've been hiding it all this time?"
Parakara shrugged, a mix of uncertainty and relief washing over her. "I guess I just didn't want people to treat me differently. I'm bullied for a lot of things. I don't want being a paratroopa who can use magic to be added to the list."
Arias smiled warmly at her friend, understanding her concerns. "I get it, Parakara. But you shouldn't have to hide who you are. Your magic is a part of you, and it's something special. Embracing it might be scary, but it could also lead to amazing things."
"You really think so?"
"Absolutely!"
"Arias..."
"Yes?"
"You said I should embrace my magic even though it's scary but could lead to amazing things...I think if you told someone what you're going through...it might be scary but something good could come out of it."
"No Kara."
"Please."
"It's different."
"How is it?"
"Because nothing good will happen, I'll be placed in some group home where I'll experience the same thing again."
"You don't know that for sure."
"It will most likely happen."
"If it does then we'll find another home, we'll keep finding one until you're safe."
No, Kara."
"Arias. Please, listen to me. This time will be different, I promise."
Gloombarias looked at her friend, her eyes filled with uncertainty. "How is it going to be different? I know what will happen."
"You can't know for sure that it will be the same. Things can change, Arias. We can find you a safe and loving home, where you won't have to go through the same pain again."
Arias shook her head, her voice heavy with doubt. "It's easy for you to say, but I've seen it happen to others. No matter where I go, I'll always end up in the same situation. I don't want to keep hoping for a better future, only to be let down again."
Parakara reached out, gently placing her hand on Gloombaria's shoulder. "I understand your fear, Arias. But giving up on hope won't protect you. We have each other, and we can keep searching until we find a place where you'll truly be safe and loved."
"No one is going to love a gloomba!"
Parakara was taken aback at the sudden outburst but stayed calm. "I love you." She said, gently, Parakara wrapped her arms around Arias, pulling her into a warm and comforting hug. "Arias, I understand that you've been hurt, and it's made you believe that nobody could ever love you. But I want you to know that I see the beauty in your heart, the strength in your spirit, and the kindness in your soul. You're so much more than just a gloomba, my friend. And I love you for exactly who you are."
Arias sniffled, her eyes welling up with tears as she clung to Parakara. "But what if nobody else sees me that way? What if I'll always be seen as just a gloomba, and nobody will ever give me a chance?"
Parakara held Arias tighter. "We won't stop until we find a place where you'll be seen and loved for the amazing person you are, Arias. Together, we'll search for a community that embraces diversity, a place where people see beyond appearances and recognize the goodness within. And if we can't find that place, we'll create it ourselves. We'll build a world where everyone, gloombas included, is valued and cherished."
Tears rolled down Gloombarias's cheeks as she stayed in the hug. She allowed herself to fully embrace the warmth and comfort of the hug. The weight of her insecurities and self-doubt slowly began to lift as she felt the genuine love and acceptance from Parakara.
"Gross." A random male student muttered before continuing on his way.
Gloombarias's heart sank at the callous remark. It felt as though her moment of vulnerability and connection had been shattered. Parakara, however, held her head high, refusing to let the negativity affect their bond.
"Words can't break us, Arias." Parakara said firmly, wiping away Gloombarias's tears with her thumb. "We know the truth and strength of our love for each other. We won't let anyone else's ignorance diminish that." Gloombarias nodded at Parakara's words. They continued to walk unitl they arrived at their rooms. Gloombarias opened her door and entered the classroom.
"Just curious, where do you go during lunch?" Parakara asked Gloombarias.
"I eat in the bathroom."
"Why?"
"It's quiet, and indoors."
"Do you want to sit with Bobert and I?"
"No."
"Why?"
"I don't talk much to anybody besides you Kara."
"I think you'll like Bobert. He's nice."
"Where do you guys sit?"
"Outside behind the school."
"I prefer the indoors."
"It's under some shade." Parakara said to the gloomba. Gloombarias was quiet thinking.
"Don't be shy Arias."
"Fine." She said, Parakara smiled a little. Being around Arias was rather nice. The two chatted away. Parakara found that when she was with Arias, she forgot about everything, forgetting about the troubles of everyday life. It was refreshing being with Arias, making the bad things seem insignificant. The two giggled together talking nonsense. The bell rang for class to begin.