The Super Mario Bros Novel

by Speedymcfly

Two brothers who plumbers named Mario & Luigi, must rise up to become the unlikely heroes the world needs when the kind hearted princess of the Mushroom Kingdom named Peach is captured by the cruel but childish ruler of the Darklands who plans to rule the world.

6. Chapter 5: Strange New World

p data-p-id="98404bac1a04a1a17a492b76814b62d3"A Warp Pipe in the middle of a brown brick wall had its lights illuminated with colours beyond belief. Mario and Luigi were thrusted out of the pipe. Mario was the first to wake up, and saw something unbelievable./p
p data-p-id="822c0162779be670040d8ded76be8cd3"Blinking in surprise, he looked around and realized that he was in a place unlike any other. Lush, rolling hills carpeted with emerald-green grass stretched out as far as the eye could see, dotted with vibrant, oversized flora. Gigantic mushrooms, some towering higher than houses, dotted the landscape, casting playful shadows that danced in the soft, warm sunlight. The air was filled with the sweet scent of flowers and the gentle rustling of leaves./p
p data-p-id="421d47feb48bc1fdd997c48c08f514a0"In the distance, a crystal-clear river meandered through the landscape, its shimmering waters reflecting the azure sky above. Colourful cheep cheep darted beneath the surface, adding to the enchanting scenery. In the distance, Mario could hear the cheerful chirping of colorful birds perched on the branches of mushroom trees. Butterflies with wings of every colour flitted about, adding a touch of magic to the scene. No words were coming out of Mario's mouth, even though he was rushed with emotion. He noticed something odd about this paradise, a purple mushroom with white spots, he walked further and further towards and wanted to touch it./p
p data-p-id="2dc96b8f7c902ce6595c85ff33a6e439""DO NOT TOUCH THAT MUSHROOM YOU WILL DIE! Wait a minute... let me just check the guide... Ah... It's a purple mushroom with GREEN spots, oops I'm sorry, this one is perfectly fine!"/p
p data-p-id="02d3bf3153107d888b944522ad6eceeb"Mario saw who shouted at him as he startled and fell down on the ground, a small, cheerful-looking mushroom-like creature with a white cap with one large red dot on each side, black dotted eyes and wearing a blue vest with yellow outlines and a giant rucksack while carrying a giant wooden hiking stick./p
p data-p-id="85039889da7f4d5a441dcbebae1bf137""The fungi fairy?" Mario asked. "Can't believe Ma was right!"/p
p data-p-id="5e2fc23a4cfebd029cca90a0b8afb8d6""The what?" The creature asked. "I'm a Toad, infact, my name is Toad! Or Kinopio but I hate that name so just call me Toad! What's your name!"/p
p data-p-id="25f55ba6461ce634720de5896dba7dfc""Well okay, uh Toad, mine is Mario!" Mario explained as he got up and dusted himself "What is this place?"/p
p data-p-id="68b6239048daea1c9b1de6cad516bbf1""The wonderful, Mushroom Kingdom!" Toad proudly exclaimed/p
p data-p-id="a00b3833cbb954fa4e4ea7883d5cea41""Mushrooms huh?" Mario replied as Toad nodded his head in pure childlike glee "Luigi isn't gonna be happy when he wakes up.."/p
p data-p-id="343f9c3fe4cd5e2fa67067a82d0e996a""Blueeege?" Toad tried to repeat/p
p data-p-id="ee7c97f5cc3196f08b1639db9b9d98bd""No LUIGI" Mario replied "My brother! He's the one lying there!" As he was speaking Luigi woke up, grabbed his bag and saw both Toad and Mario in front of him./p
p data-p-id="e35010880d1930545a0a2daf6d0e565e""Mario..."/p
p data-p-id="4a947af52f5eca0d69eb8a69f1ea325e""Yeah I know..."/p
p data-p-id="51d86764e8ca697547a1870b101e8d5d""We are dead!"/p
p data-p-id="99479de98ba6ef66b641884efb1dd138""Well I wouldn't say that!" Toad said "It's just didn't expect people going to the Warp Zone! You must be pretty shaken up Weegee!"/p
p data-p-id="453120d1abf7d95fcc4074d032790fcf""Okay first of all don't call me that and second what's with uh, all the Mushrooms you going to some party?" Luigi asked/p
p data-p-id="6f79da5bdfdcd4bdedca9717c544d2f6""Nah buddy, we're in the Mushroom Kingdom! And yes, we party all the time and it's pretty cool!" Toad smugly and proudly replied./p
p data-p-id="c840060eb1b50236c7ffc34b7a8c4d94""Mushrooms..." Luigi whispered "What a cruel twist of fate... What did I do to deserve this?"/p
p data-p-id="08c2f54dbf9c5850bbb0820a1c13960c""Warp Zone?" Mario asked as the three started walking with each other./p
p data-p-id="fd7dc6bde608b74d2af38df67aa9680d""Yeah! The Warp Zone! See we Toads made the Warp zone as a place to quickly teleport to other areas of the world, but we saw it as too dangerous and decided to close all portals to the other worlds but your city didn't do a good job doing that! So I sometimes (don't tell anyone) decide to go to your Warp Zone sometimes you know check it out see what I can find!" Toad expositions as Luigi is shaken with fear seeing all the weird stuff around him, seeing giant yellow caterpillars with black dots and brown circles named Wigglers or Bramballs, weird balls with faces that had spiky stems for legs./p
p data-p-id="6b253f8a9587e4ab818b6ddbe4ee98d1""Hey quick question!" Luigi asked "Are we dreaming!"/p
p data-p-id="bd230724707e016f5cca30e47d6e1a94"Toad then hit Luigi on the head with his hiking stick "Did that hurt!"/p
p data-p-id="cbb070f763212aa1a27e70f053d5ea17""Yes!"/p
p data-p-id="60ff7e96c31e7278dff5608a330efd9d""Then you aren't dreaming Weegee!"/p
p data-p-id="33a5c27e7f20882a9455529a39b80289""So wait a minute, if the Warp Zone was sectioned off then, how come there were ton of weird monsters that presumably came from there?"/p
p data-p-id="bdb972e1bf3c28db24b39266dc2634ab""WAIT" Toad stopped right in his tracks and his cheerful demeanour evaporated "Did you say Monsters?" He asked with a hint of seriousness./p
p data-p-id="500ffd87cc58077d5fad57c515b20f9d""Yeah!" Mario joyfully answered "You know one of them and I thought it was pretty funny was like this weird turtle that walked like you and me! He had green shoes too that was wer-"/p
p data-p-id="8ede264e5f5aeb91371a5b4ca95d938a""Uh oh" Toad exclaimed "That's not good, no that's not good at all! Those monsters are bad news!"/p
p data-p-id="68f2ebd5e285cee0b4a7bf79cf0fa67c""Yeah, we could gather that after they chased us and destroyed all our pipes! They flooded our city!" Luigi explained./p
p data-p-id="ffc2f77c01fded21c51a69b576ac11b7""Ah, It's worse than I thought! They're preparing for something! Something big, something evil!" Toad explained as he quickly ran through the fungi forest and up to the top of the Mushrooms, the brothers were barely able to keep up. Seeing this Toad offered to put the brothers plumbing equipment in his rucksack./p
p data-p-id="61447e6f83f30a2ed86f83fbf8229b5c""I'm taking you to our beautiful and wonderful Princess Toadstool! She can help you! See I've only heard of these monsters! But the Princess has seen them!" After briefly climbing the brothers could see a giant magnificent white castle overlooking a small town below./p
p data-p-id="4b19219de9bf9d5c6a825d663b3db4a8""Pretty incredible huh?" Toad asked/p
p data-p-id="554f31e16074d770e932d2c9d08f7c32""This place, this place is incredible!" Mario replied./p
p data-p-id="2b554085f2b23c4e23b30ee9026e09b1""This place would be incredible if we removed all the annoying mushroom people and just take out the mushrooms all together" Luigi remarked, Toad with an angry face not liking what Luigi said hit on the stick again. "Yep, I probably deserve that!"/p
p data-p-id="d803182f3c0b6910e38d0d415ff63d36""Come on!" Toad jumped on a mushroom "We've for no time to waste to save your kingdom!"/p
p data-p-id="b2cf755ec1dcb5b75bea0d844322063f"Mario smiled and jumped onto the Mushroom while Luigi followed as the three went onto a new epic adventure./p
p data-p-id="95134ae250c3fae2503ee4d451749c16""Mushroom Kingdom, here we go!" Mario loudly shouted./p
p data-p-id="8a7ab20ec0ab3262ce329c7dcb399a4e"***/p
p data-p-id="109fb45e8e4a9fa6320e17eac1f3a33a"Meanwhile, in a dark volcanic valley, a small bat with yellow eyes named a swooper flow across the area, that was until a lava monster with eyes named a Blarg emerged from the lava below the bat and ate it, then submerged inside the lava it called home. This was the Darklands, a kingdom that was beckoned without sunlight and was home to maliciousness and evil, and that was incarnate from Bowser, the ruler of this kingdom./p
p data-p-id="798ea29140ea2c93fcff78fb6ee73154"Bowser's massive, reptilian frame is covered in scaly, yellow skin, which gives him an aura of primal strength. His limbs are thick and muscular, ending in sharp claws that can tear through obstacles with ease. His fiery red hair, wild and untamed, cascades from his head, framing his fearsome face. His most distinctive feature is his colossal spiked shell. It's an intimidating armour that covers his back, providing both protection and menace. The spikes that come from his shell add to his fearsome appearance. He is typically seen wearing only spiked cuffs or bracelets on his wrists, emphasizing his brute strength and raw power. Atop his sturdy neck rests a large, menacing head. His eyes, glowing with a fiery intensity, are pure hellish red and often appear to be filled with malice. Sharp, angular red brows give his gaze an even more menacing edge. Bowser's mouth, filled with sharp fangs, is almost always contorted into a wicked grin, but right now, he's face was one of pure apathy. He sat on his benevolent throne once again, looking at a pink invitation to a party, he sighed in sadness, a rare sight for the Koopa king./p
p data-p-id="717eaf00884534d529a5a51c6c73ebed""Sire!" Bowser's hunchbacked assistant/caretaker appeared out of nowhere in a purple cloud with small shapes appearing along with it, he wore blue azure robes along with crystal clear crescent-moon-shaped glasses. He's often seen with his gnarled gold staff, topped with a red crystal orb that he used for his spells./p
p data-p-id="61a7773a65f17c9a9b194056cbc1562d""You seem depressed" He concluded "What is wrong with you?"/p
p data-p-id="184b53e4b797b4207a47a2d263743133""Nothing!" Bowser screamed "Go away Kamek, I just want to be alone" He grabbed the invitation he was reading and ate it up./p
p data-p-id="e4cdf29c412dd93297bb7512c11da10b""Are you still thinking about, her?" Kamek asked/p
p data-p-id="d65c381b024305e15f484bfd69a1981a""No... It is none of your concern, go change my son's nappies or go to your cauldron"/p
p data-p-id="7b6220d186c11dad2f3ea440aab21446""Your son is 5"/p
p data-p-id="16888caf1eb918c24cf19569979eefa3""Yeah yeah yeah just leave me alone!"/p
p data-p-id="da48de673c1fb8b40cc0d1d55dbd4e53""Boss! Boss!" Boom Boom ran into the room as he stood in front of Bowser, he bowed and then saluted before standing with his hands in front of him./p
p data-p-id="ac4ec1aed254d185cf8c8b43fe22d30f""We've prepared the industrial kingdom for take over!" Boom Boom declared "Though, the Princess was not there"/p
p data-p-id="5a0c80957bba2335340c9d4bf16e304f""WHAT!" Bowser and Kamek screamed in unison./p
p data-p-id="395b08379e6e1820d2ecd1c29e466c16""So, let me get this straight" Bowser said "I sent you to get the Princess and she's gone!"/p
p data-p-id="0798cce3d4a935d153b2fc5cfc979f06""Yes" Boom Boom answered "I failed you, I will take any punishment required."/p
p data-p-id="bff71f386aa7bae902e55fa2c799cfc9""No" Bowser asserted calming. "It is fine, I expected her to be this hard to find, you may be excused."/p
p data-p-id="7b80efe280902fcdf845f845727d31d0""Well, I do have one more inquiry to tell you, remember those two humans that the Lakitu reported about?"/p
p data-p-id="92a8809f59168cc775c7e53628fcdec7""Yes..." Bowser leaned forward on his throne slightly./p
p data-p-id="6e726be7f9c87d7c85fc37945e2df735""Well, they interrupted us trying to prepare our take over, along with an army of humans."/p
p data-p-id="7b301188e5e7e675f0f6e6caa1590442""Uh" Bowser sighed "Tell me you sorted them out!"/p
p data-p-id="e14bd12338435ce7498aeecc3d1a3d40""Well, we have captured all the humans that we came across us"/p
p data-p-id="cac3596a58708cfd3db3e6d316bdd6cf""That's good"/p
p data-p-id="b1414e113ab0cef45e7bd3d8c313eb15""But the two moustached humans, they went to the Mushroom Kingdom..."/p
p data-p-id="94d682f1b97be72d175ba9e7c690668d""RAAAAAA" Bowser roared as he stood with fire accompanied with the loud grunt. "GET OUT OF MY SIGHT NOW! AND FIND MORE INFO ON THESE TWO!" Boom Boom ran in fear./p
p data-p-id="3fa34e5abcdbcaeb7554215574795068""Sire, you didn't tell me about any of this!" Kamek walked towards him as Bowser sat in his throne./p
p data-p-id="50fbfac23d4f2e17cd38fb277a109a3c""Well, you would tell me it's a bad idea and stuff, plus I'm old enough to do what I want, I ain't a kid anymore."/p
p data-p-id="9327ddea58b477a611256fc73d23c6ea""With those tantrums you are" Kamek silently thought./p
p data-p-id="571a57f0f75cec80d38db0fccbd6cceb""Leave me be, I will inform you and the Elite commando once I decide to attack."/p
p data-p-id="1a7acd245513878493c2d28e1247f207""Very well" Kamek disappeared in the same way he appeared. /p
p data-p-id="58ef2056ad661e27335a8d9a5a3d18d2"Bowser left his throne and went behind it, and got out a wooden chest with the note "for her" on it, he opened up with bonk on the head, inside the chest was a map he got from Yoshi's Island all those years ago along with a music box with Princess in pink wielded on top of it and a few miscellaneous things. He grabbed the music box and started moving it's handle./p
p data-p-id="f2f246f106ffb437e8b25ca55aa07b78""Don't worry my love, soon we will be together" He said sincerely as he sat on his throne while the music played quietly. "And, we will both be finally happy."/p
p data-p-id="66f5bb4c16beb0dd21896047ccdb8d9d"***/p
p data-p-id="f0f66bf0f069d805e29e654c4ae05361"The brothers walked through the green valley that were surrounded by multi coloured hills. They were walking for a solid 5 minutes and were still making no progress getting to the castle./p
p data-p-id="c517e6bf4e11f92f16965dc472af68f6""Uh" Luigi moaned "This is taking too long! How long till we get to the Castle!"/p
p data-p-id="69d55f9dbdefb0125c9856c33d2e370c""Oh uh we're not going to the Castle" Toad replied "I'm actually going to my house first then we're going to the Castle! Sorry!"/p
p data-p-id="68a5885d0251ecd86d5f127b8670f146""So what was that all about no time to lose stuff?"Luigi asked./p
p data-p-id="be995ad3a22452e48b10e7f5f464b9e5""Oh there is no time to lose! Because if we're late he's gonna wake up and if he does then my house will be a mess! It's gonna take hours to clean up!"/p
p data-p-id="aed746300e31636a9aaeb2f13ca79db5""Wait who's h-" Luigi asked before being interrupted by Toad./p
p data-p-id="a902cc60d4634de9832cb1441c78442f""Here we are!" Toad announced "Come in come in!" The Bros went inside a small Mushroom house that had the label of "Toad's Terrific Tenacious Treasure Trove" in front of it. The shop's facade is a picturesque sight with wooden walls that evoke a sense of timeless charm./p
p data-p-id="77acf68165123af273faa881653ee2e0"Upon entering, the Bros were greeted by an inviting atmosphere filled with the soft, warm glow of antique lamps and chandeliers. The wooden floorboards creak softly underfoot, adding to the shop's ancient ambiance. The shelves and display cases are laden with an assortment of curiosities and collectibles, each one a piece of history waiting to be uncovered./p
p data-p-id="02bb26c92bed21515656bcb92cf5bfd6"The store was a testament to the Mushroom Kingdom's rich and diverse past, from vintage power ups to ancient books filled with legends and stories. Cabinets hold antique potions, mysterious artifacts, and rare, hand-painted portraits of legendary heroes from ages long past./p
p data-p-id="189f6cd223612d6bd41a552242524c5d"Toad whistled. "Yoshi! Yoshi! Where are you boy!" Under the counter a giant green dinosaur with a giant red shell for a saddle on his back emerged and launched himself onto Toad and licked him./p
p data-p-id="1c18c1fb95a3441acd8a9ac90878bddf""Okay okay I love you to haha" Toad said as Yoshi licked him with his unusually long tongue./p
p data-p-id="fbc3ba273e113988e73118d2b2537571""YOSHI!" Yoshi Yoshi'd "YOSHI YOSHI!"/p
p data-p-id="9a721b8743247ebd8247e6378e6b6b1c""Who these guys are, oh these are Mario and Weegee!"/p
p data-p-id="d439493866bdb03f0989061c281d10cd""Ah, so the dinosaurs are real huh?" Luigi asked "I am dead and this is hell."/p
p data-p-id="b4237af6b4f4c4f507669a18c20a589f"Toad looked confused at Luigi and then whispered to Yoshi. "The green one is kinda weird, I don't like him, but the red one is cool!"/p
p data-p-id="a56c3560da0e1095e8115378fc2ad7a5"Yoshi hearing this ran up to Mario and licked him. "Hahaha!" Mario laughed "He's so cute!"/p
p data-p-id="5a6aa73262d9b9d62634beb74c478fa0""Yeah!" Toad agreed "Me and him have stuck together since he was baby and I was 13 when I found him in the orphanage we were in! We uh, only have each other! You know no one else, uh, really likes us" Toad after saying this sat on down on one of his unrolled rugs, clearly sad, Yoshi seeing this stopped licking Mario followed him and laid by his side./p
p data-p-id="596b9a28e01cdc7dead96e2cd8d85cad""Can't say I'm surprised" Luigi whispered to Mario, Mario then stomped on Luigi's foot and walked to Toad, sitting beside him./p
p data-p-id="593f4b4e075820d7f383ef212e4c908c""Hey, you doing okay?" Mario asked/p
p data-p-id="ea9269bd48b1cefdaede860c6417074c""You know" Toad said with an air of sadness. "You're the first person to visit the shop this year."/p
p data-p-id="11df58116dba6ce4b1beeb365a3a40c8""Really?" Mario said with a surprised expression. "I though this be the hottest spot in town! Especially with the Pizza right there!" Mario pointed to a green rotten pepperoni pizza inside a glass container./p
p data-p-id="594e12313e914e280fcb44e12a0005ff""What you mean the dotted wheel of wonder!"/p
p data-p-id="35c4bdd90ee64aa64f529408b2b787ab""Yeah... sure!"/p
p data-p-id="207e8c6d670a5450cbc082011754a181""Not many people visit here, there's a reason why I built this house outside of the town"/p
p data-p-id="c359b1e7783e05e359cd193800b39b98""Why?" Mario asked "I thought you'd be the most popular Toad in town!"/p
p data-p-id="d997f6c0c004dda662b597704d2f326a""I wish! Everyone hates me and Yoshi over there because we're different!"/p
p data-p-id="33ac318ea34fc4e1add443207db01d68""Different?"/p
p data-p-id="b096acdfa39f2ca0d9346302e02e26e0""Yeah! We want to go on epic adventures, find stuff and explore the world! Everyone here is too scared to go around places especially with the Koopas around! All they do is go to parties which we aren't invited to!" The two sat in silence for a while on the rug, with Luigi looking around the shop dissociated with the conversation./p
p data-p-id="bf2756d0d1919a4e65eb16d0e771c41e""Who cares what they think!" Mario said as he stood up in optimism. "Tell you what! Once all this is done, maybe we could go on a Mario Party of our own, Just me you, Yoshi and Luigi!"/p
p data-p-id="91d2145ee9a8caf872f834cb06765fed""Wow" Toad awed "That's the nicest thing anyone's ever done to me! Heck maybe we can go to the party that's happening tomorrow!"/p
p data-p-id="8e97fb1fee658b8aaf2dc0f9f77ecccd""Tomorrow?"/p
p data-p-id="4e902605d9791c9966f96d133d9615df""Yeah! It's Princess Toadstool's birthday party tomorrow, It's gonna be loads of fun! Tennis! Golf! And Go Karts! Plus a ton of food!"/p
p data-p-id="2854cbec76f9306cb95f863f3671b618""Well it's settled then!" Mario declared. "We're gonna go to the Castle then go to the party with you!"/p
p data-p-id="2e5f0edeafc53d067bcf1ac2b3969f42"Toad stood up with his spirit regained, he hopped on Yoshi and exited out of the store. "Come on! Let's go!" Toad shouted. Mario and Luigi walked with Toad as they went towards the town./p
p data-p-id="d21ce0b7b61cfdd3ecd7faec27465959""Mario are you sure about this!" Luigi whispered toward his brother "I mean I thought we were just gonna save Cranklyn! Not spend time with some mushroom man child!"/p
p data-p-id="cf022c90929868762fb475977edd626a""Relax Luigi!" Mario replied "We'll be saving Cranklyn while doing a good thing for this guy, besides, How bad could it have gotten in Cranklyn!"/p
p data-p-id="0c5a71622661d38ff693f0b49da236ba"***/p
p data-p-id="8b87366f562681803b7d99c6d4d83ef9""Very bad! This is very bad!" Pauline said to the governor in the city hall. When it was just turned to morning in the Mushroom Kingdom, the night was still present in the New Donk City and the flood still ruled the land. "The Mario Brothers were the best dudes I knew that could do the job and now we're all out of options!"/p
p data-p-id="aef0850d1392869ed57852640cc1b52e""Hmmm" The Governor sighed deep in thought. "This is very peculiar... Monsters, floods and now missing people. I am not excited to take over this country when the election come round..."/p
p data-p-id="35752201fb8217b498829146c05e479c""Well, this leaves me no choice, I'm calling Spike..." She resolved. As she dialled his number. Spike instantly bursted open the door with a large tool belt./p
p data-p-id="1b3a380ebb8cbb1cf96b33a44e3e4254""What the?" Pauline exclaimed/p
p data-p-id="884cc103385d532280dfb0d41d3f9a89""Yes, I came as quick as I could!" Spike announced "So, you what me to fix the leaks huh?"/p
p data-p-id="93bbb20e06332a0a315e79e807d1d6fb""Okay, we'll talk about how you know all about this later but fine, gone inside the sewers and fix this mess."/p
p data-p-id="98816fbfca2f3660d1baf5a95b310869""Okay, I just need my payment first"/p
p data-p-id="945fc2162b42373ac4ea7685e9fabeea""Oh you want to get paid!"/p
p data-p-id="3b58958eab3b55a717d26abc4cf3976b""Yeah, you know you're a good girl for realising this!"/p
p data-p-id="3b57d5b9adb997f8629fb6aebdfd4304""THEN FIX THE LEAK!" Pauline shouted with pure fury./p
p data-p-id="9a4272d5814b5ad53d46aa8714baad08""Alright alright geez, you have a bite to you, just how I like my woman!" Spike pestered as he left. When he exited the lavish city halls, Spike was greeted with the water rising considerable, the water was now at the height of someone's knee. Despite this, Spike was not deterred, he saw a nearby manhole and bust it open with just one stomp and went inside./p
p data-p-id="eb33a10d1ee2fb0316b899f7fda7d64d"He went the same route the Bros did surprisingly and came across the same platform problem. Spike was prepared for this however, he used the same method, using a plumbing snake and plunger combo to get across, only this time with an annoying little brother on his back it worked flawlessly. Seeing the broken pipes, he produced some plumber putty and some hard titanium nails to fix the broken pipes and used his strength to turn the valve causing the water to overload. With haste Spike surprisingly did./p
p data-p-id="b0dc066f75d0e1da6fc6afbed31cbb0a""HAHA" Spiked laughed "Those Stupid Mario Brothers couldn't fix such a painfully simple issue! I thought they were the best plumbers in town!"/p
p data-p-id="c44cbd165c60b7c21e83fba4cf6fccbe""Oh are they?" Boom Boom asked as he emerged from a red pipe./p
p data-p-id="a776121af5e383e56ff23f09be091db6""AHH!" Spike screamed in fear cowering and crouching. "Don't hurt me! I know two guys who fought in a war! If you lay a finger on me they're gonna come for you!"/p
p data-p-id="315069be2554392445243b8f091c5fa6"Boom Boom laughed, he jumped towards the platform and grabbed the frightened foreman who was standing in a puddle of pee he created./p
p data-p-id="ebfa0696c815537504b0a9a8ea900ef9""Listen" Boom Boom asserted "I am a very reasonable Koopa! We can do this the easy way or the hard way, point is, I need you to give me some info on these Mario brothers, if you don't, Well, let's just say I'm not gonna let you go scot free!"/p
p data-p-id="5ef9d795a9d81bfaaa835591552431c3""Okay okay okay!" Spike stuttered. "Just please don't hurt me!"/p
p data-p-id="5db1f17140e807038c5510c8b2514bb2""Good good, Of course I can't promise that, since I'm taking you to my boss!" Boom Boom laughed as he carried Spike in his shoulder as entered they red pipe./p
p data-p-id="99ff9ddc7c2b929618345b5bdbe0810d"***/p
p data-p-id="31483d2504d5b9470f3a0d895c8d051b""Here we are!" Toad announced "The castle is right there!" Toad explained as he pointed at the hill. As they started their journey through Toad Town, the quaint yet bustling hub of the kingdom./p
p data-p-id="c71a23a8c147113d0abd6b307d079a4e""Excuse everyone?" Toad asked as the crowds piled on. "Excuse me?" Everyone kept on pushing him around. "EXCUSE ME EVERYONE! THESE BROTHERS KINGDOM IS GONNA BE DESTROYED, IMMINENTLY OUT OF THE WAY PLEASE!" Mario hearing this tried to grab Toad to stop him from defamating his beloved city./p
p data-p-id="68444c7e792e73d8c919ecc689b1f62c""Don't worry just trying to clear a path it's gonna be fine! Look!" Toad pointed out. "that's the power up market, the cafe, the crazy cap store, the theatre, the pet store and the-"/p
p data-p-id="387a03e7aaa939c5c8d5b5239153d475""Mamma Mia!" Mario exclaimed. "Calm down! We can just take our time!" Mario was right to say this, all around him were that weren't making sense and needed explaining like the thousands of floating bricks, blocks and coins, mushroom flavoured coffee or identically cloned Mushrooms shaped houses just with different colours. There were also multiple market places occurring all at once, for these things called "Power ups" and got a few items such as cards, chests, whistles, clothes and shroom dye. But one part of the Town caught his keen eye./p
p data-p-id="7287bff41adeb7573fb33c51f89e0219""Huh? Why are people jumping to get coins?" Mario asked./p
p data-p-id="042dc50d4a225e1d860800bc695ddf4a""That's our ATB system!" Toad replied./p
p data-p-id="a1cc081b9c26b23d3b7b58231fe03030""ATB?" Luigi repeated./p
p data-p-id="4c95f22ba8000e617428f4696e1770b1""Automatic teller block! That's how everyone gets their money! Enter your card then you punch how much you want out!"/p
p data-p-id="53e28fe7b6de6d66ba46ce18a1e7960c"Mario mouth stayed wide up for a few minutes until he shook his head and carried on. As they continued, the town's quaint cloned cottages and brown brick streets gave way to a gently sloping hillside, adorned with wildflowers in bloom. The four were at a park section where an intersection of clear pipes where that lead up to higher parts of the town but more importantly, the castle./p
p data-p-id="37f4d34e11605270f68436b2f70c31de""Just pop into this pipe and we're on our way!" Toad explained./p
p data-p-id="11f95f597842774407c61f49751c3bb6""NO!" Luigi shouted "No more pipes! The last I went into one I ended up here!"/p
p data-p-id="e197363d38500127b280f17d6aa653bc""Luigi!" Mario whispered "We don't wanna make a scene, we already look weird enough with everyone staring at us!"/p
p data-p-id="ac0f646e625d3e27f03756db093b9517""Fine..."/p
p data-p-id="82cf0b781be419df5a900c02f103011e""It's the only way to fly dudes!" Toad said as he and his pet companion entered the clear pipe, both screaming in excitement./p
p data-p-id="b99c0cde33b0584190733c4fdedcaff5""Oh wow!" Mario exclaimed. "Love these Pip-AHHHHHH!" Mario was instantly sucked in./p
p data-p-id="76b3429514598e41ea69fd5a0987d58a""Mario!" Luigi shouted and went straight for him and was sucked in as well, it was clear the brothers weren't meant to be inside such devices made for people that 4 feet tall, the brothers ended up being suck inside a few times as their faces kept hitting the bottom and top of the pipes. The brothers after what felt like an eternity ended up in the castle courtyard./p
p data-p-id="76c043d8b65f96ce97c545ef963c4c4e"Toad gestured toward the castle with pride. "There it is, Princess Toadstool's Castle!"/p
p data-p-id="6aa8b6085872a5ced8391ac5026c58f1"The Castle stood proudly at the front of the Mushroom Kingdom overlooking Toad Town. It's magnificent structure exudes regal splendour. With its walls constructed from pristine, white-coloured bricks, the castle gleams in the sunlight. Tall, elegant spires reach skyward, each one crowned with a royal-red roof adorned with perfectly curated flags. The castle's architecture is a harmonious blend of classic elegance and fairy-tale charm. Perfectly manicured gardens and vibrant flowerbeds line the approach, adding a touch of colour and serenity to the castle's majestic exterior./p
p data-p-id="d2f1da8cc6f8e60b1ff8812990c52877"A grand drawbridge, made of sturdy stone, spans a crystal-clear moat teeming with cheerful Cheep Cheeps. Two colossal, intricately designed double doors, made of rich wood and adorned with golden handles, provide entry to the castle's inner sanctum. Completing its majestic look was a large stained glass portrait of a woman dressed in pink alongside blonde hair on the top of the castle./p
p data-p-id="fdaffb40d8feba91856b057ad1120535""HOLD IT RIGHT THERE!" One of two guards with spears announced to the four as they approached the doors./p
p data-p-id="82a2459aa5a890bf81326af11773d773""Uh hey Buckenberry and Ala-Gold! Toad nervously greeted. "How you doing? I didn't know you were guards now!"/p
p data-p-id="bbe3ee42ec48fe6c5d78fc872894b526""Oh we are doing just fine!" Buckenberry (A blue Toad) told him./p
p data-p-id="10b3ef3289a610e1da592003f4cf9699""Yeah" Ala-Gold (A Yellow Toad) replied. "Have you been EATING anything lately? Some MUSHROOMS."/p
p data-p-id="f40fd98c2dc0c79cc617969d06593434""Or, uh PEACHES!"/p
p data-p-id="032c249dc517bdd5a53bd4d41ec59186""I'm sorry as you can tell we're new here can you please give us context!" Luigi asked./p
p data-p-id="df6859f305de9ca15de208b9e531acc2""Well, unless you're an accessory towards a war criminal, then fine, we'll tell you!" Buckenberry replied. The two brothers looked at each other both confused and worried./p
p data-p-id="300b939bc82f89ece96a972ed20de2f3""Kinopoo and his pet here went to a party, one of the biggest in our kingdom yet" Buckenberry started/p
p data-p-id="ab4d9d512ebfaee6b0fe711c8c0f27de""It was great, so great in fact that these two had to ruin it!"/p
p data-p-id="513491e889b16bbdda29347a00c2ac07""Kinopoo arrived at the party and rode his stupid little pet, and then, and then..."/p
p data-p-id="e11af15437dee68fd592ac90f444f3b1""HE ATE US!"/p
p data-p-id="58d19a0c57444f9c2fa6ae671bad1549""Yeah, that, thing ate me and Ala-Gold, gobbled us up! And then, and then..."/p
p data-p-id="947a7bbe7866bcbee13e44d43606e19b""HE ATE THE PRINCESS!"/p
p data-p-id="5dcf5b9fdfb66b0a002da87cb9b67c96""Yeah, that monster over there ate the Princess, we've since personally banned him from the all the parties and ever setting foot in this castle again!"/p
p data-p-id="e4ff6dac221798aa9e1f4a0ecd31e06d"Mario and Luigi looked at Toad and Yoshi speechless./p
p data-p-id="7f98cc6dbdbde450b4acf40f34e5299f""So Yoshi" Mario said while pointing at the sleeping creature. "Ate, your Princess?"/p
p data-p-id="4be69fcde8a08b7a477a7f2bd2bf2bc7""Yes!" Toad answered. "It's true! I was teaching him English at the time and he may or may have not ate a few people when I said Yoshi say hi"/p
p data-p-id="7bc5e6c75b22f9b026c3734929240a23""HE ATE THE FUNGING PRINCESS" Ala-Gold shouted./p
p data-p-id="1939f1d217d91902c9186143339b6444""But I was 15 at the time and he was a little baby, I'm now an old little boy now!"/p
p data-p-id="525713070f6ba44b46997c49f285ddf0""We don't care!" Ala Gold explained. "We had to spent god knows how long in a small, dark, cramped egg, just waiting to be released, diy you know how painfully that is!"/p
p data-p-id="feff4ed19c6a23300875868517317dd5""You were there for five minutes" Toad replied/p
p data-p-id="92b1dccee98cae12a14a7cd3bb31ec12""In any case" Buckenberry added "We ain't allowing you to come in!"/p
p data-p-id="da6edfc17b523178866771e41dcd3a4e""We need too!" Mario pleaded "Our city is in danger and we need your Princess for help!"/p
p data-p-id="79625a633914f3a11e004ba5846d1b9c"The two Toads looked at each other with a intent for mischief./p
p data-p-id="290df4cf068f37716cf1c6efed687279""What Princess?" Buckenberry said as Ala-Gold laughed./p
p data-p-id="c3f97413f8a38b14a45bba8d2d634811""Yeah! Our Princess is in another castle! This castle however is... It's a restaurant! Yeah we're guarding a restaurant!" Ala-Gold explained to them./p
p data-p-id="3b9c382daf271cc4c469c8fb4ea9af8f""You should try another castle!" Buckenberry told the brothers as he fist bumped Ala-Gold as the two friends laughed./p
p data-p-id="c7083ec819c52ef1bc7845108b4d657e""Well" Toad resolved, it's clear that these guys are lying to you m, I'm afraid I'm gonna have to do something I didn't I wish I needed to do but, YOSHI SAY HI!"/p
p data-p-id="ed3a844e3889795b4dabf062046501a8""Hi" Yoshi adorably said as the two guards look scared for their lives./p
p data-p-id="3319b6bde386d84f8584a88755188c0e""No" Toad replied as he whispered into Yoshi's ear. Yoshi nodded and used his tongue to eat the two guards./p
p data-p-id="448080b289f8e6e82f429317febb96a3""Run brothers run!" Toad informed them "I'll deal with these two when Yoshi spits them out"/p
p data-p-id="c6c3f0293cac344d0c2755efc5fdc0c1"Luigi gladly taking the offer ran into the castle while Mario was slightly more apprehensive./p
p data-p-id="241e94a3f9c56b57c8ad8c41268c4e16""What about you?" Mario asked./p
p data-p-id="98083bc3fe1c8329dd9389f247da973a""Just go!" Toad answered "You don't need to be weighed down by my actions." While speaking Yoshi spat out the two guards./p
p data-p-id="964c6e4ec5726b1b2d58ba3c2655c7c0""HEY!" Buckenberry shouted as Ala-Gold grabbed Toad and Yoshi. "GET THOSE TWO!"/p
p data-p-id="c9cc49f6af7c165bcb9318d2a952027f""Uh, we're the only ones here?" Ala-Gold replied./p
p data-p-id="9acdef854e61c2c2e3941b98039521ae"Inside the lavish halls of the Castle, a sense of serenity and regal elegance prevailed. Polished marble floors reflected the warm glow of crystal chandeliers hanging from the high vaulted ceilings. Ornate paintings adorned the walls, depicting scenes from the Mushroom Kingdom's rich history./p
p data-p-id="9bb12652040f188393330346b97f01fe"Mario and Luigi were lurking through the castle's labyrinthine like corridors. As they rounded a corner, they suddenly found themselves face to face with a military of stern-looking Guard Toads in their armored uniforms and polished spears./p
p data-p-id="80a5aa79f0298891f12d62a8231db12c""Stop right there criminal scum!" one of the Guard Toads barked./p
p data-p-id="7946c5fb8d1e899cf9413fa2fabdd006"Mario and Luigi skidded to a halt, exchanging confused glances. "Oh great more of them!" Luigi shouted./p
p data-p-id="b030ba1c817322dfd36dd0210878bc7c"Before they could react, the Guard Toads advanced, surrounding the brothers. "You're trespassing in the castle! State your business!" One Guard Toad demanded./p
p data-p-id="cf4268dcb06d5d2d165ec1e6a5a19836""We need to visit the Princess!" Mario nervously stammered "Our City is in trouble!"/p
p data-p-id="83460e777a7da9bc8ee424b12b1d1477""Do not listen to those war criminals!" Buckenberry announced as he and Ala-Gold entered the hallway. The Toads then pinned the brothers down on the floor./p
p data-p-id="c7b6935b4674976d0c153316efcfd26b""They are here to eat all of us!" Ala-Gold added. "Don't let them survive!"/p
p data-p-id="c100ea38ff3041119ed7e9aab7aea68b"Just then, the double doors of a nearby chamber swung open, revealing a lavish meeting room bathed in the soft glow of candlelight. At the head of a long, polished wooden table sat Princess Toadstool, her demeanour regal and composed. She was surrounded by her trusted council./p
p data-p-id="6ca3ee60c6e6764d6b59f5fac81dbbcd"The Council turned their attention toward the commotion, and Princess Toadstool raised an eyebrow, her blue eyes locking onto the two intruders./p
p data-p-id="0a7d6c5e4d35ce133d81cab1304e75c4""What's going on out there!" Princess Toadstool sternly asked as she walked out of the room. Her dress was a flowing, floor-length gown in a soft shade of pastel pink, exquisitely tailored to fit her graceful frame. The frame is adorned with delicate ruffles and a golden brooch, accentuating her regal bearing. Resting atop her golden locks, her crown was a symbol of her royal lineage. It gleams with a lustrous brilliance, adorned with sparkling jewels that catch the light with every movement./p
p data-p-id="505e9871d897c3202eaf33cb1d497f14"One of the Guard Toads stepped forward. "Your Highness, we've apprehended these two individuals who were wandering the castle without permission." The Toad reported. Luigi looked petrified while Mario saw an air of familiarity to the Princess, recognizing her./p
p data-p-id="b69570ea07528a14b02f1fdd2f573d20""Wait a minute!" Mario exclaimed "I know you from somewhere!" He closed his eyes while snapping his fingers. "Holy ravioli! You're Blondie! Or Peach!"/p
p data-p-id="fa129b5577f346798a07973f1b6b4e1a"Princess Toadstool ducked down and saw the plumber, her serious demeanour evaporated into pure joy./p
p data-p-id="d8b20c2311824e9cde4f95ab9d8bd776""Oh my god! Oh my god!" She exclaimed. "Release them at once!" The Toads complied, not before Ala-Gold stopped on the two as the army exited from the castle./p
p data-p-id="2efb0ef1d33d24636117224734561dd4""You're here! Both of you! Is this is a joke! Or did you know? Wait did you know! Man I forgot how small you are!" Peach was sporadically saying as she grabbed Mario's hat while walking around./p
p data-p-id="dd9ce5536a6006545be65718dbe208de""Slow down!" Luigi told the Princess. "And hey! We aren't small! Or at least I'm not not small!"/p
p data-p-id="07f0d57e47f0f8de161e4bdf70fe642e"Mario gave Luigi an angry glance. "Yeah, It's a long story but, we need your help!" Mario asked as he put back his hat./p
p data-p-id="1aaf170a7327e4388455fb0c572ba780""Wait, what do you mean." Peach asked sincerely./p
p data-p-id="7300714619c3b8edc208b02f47d7d638""Well, while me and Luigi were investigating our town, we found a Warp Zone but also these Koopas, and then we ended up here!"/p
p data-p-id="1a24d049d916decc1bb8b16fb479a9b1""Oh no!" Peach exclaimed with fear in her azure blue eyes. "No no no!"/p
p data-p-id="ae9f5fd947c89e058ee3e08a65356b67""Hey, what's wrong?" Mario asked./p
p data-p-id="2a9f393d0bae325ce7fa712660e36f9c""This is all my fault!" Peach told the brothers. "If it wasn't for me! This wouldn't have-"/p
p data-p-id="fb230593dcd16a15cde204c84e089ea0""Princess?" An Old Toad opened the doors. He stood with a slightly hunched posture, attesting to his ancient age, and sports a snowy-white, walrus-like mustache that frames his cheerful smile. His purple waistcoat with gold royal outlines, combined with his round, mushroom-like stature and a posh buttoned light purple shirt gave him a regal yet approachable appearance. His full-moon glasses perch on the bridge of his nose, underscoring his scholarly demeanor./p
p data-p-id="29c8069ba3e9f301b8141f0577aecc5c""What is the issue around here?" He asked. "Have you sorted out this nonsen-" His eyes then locked on the two brothers./p
p data-p-id="d7744c28fd91c51bb9b3134d10fc65b7""What did you do?" He asked. "They should not be here!"/p
p data-p-id="7b583e8611386e2406a0503c0fcc622e""Look, we'll talk about this later Toadsworth" Peach sternly answered. "Their Kingdom is in danger by you know who!"/p
p data-p-id="273761ffc0efab890d17e8d4d225042f"Toadsworth looked horrified. "The beast you mean..." He resolved. "I did not think he would go this far."/p
p data-p-id="8af8634e85bf969c29884b247529780c""The beast?" Luigi asked with a hint of fear. "Are you the beauty as well? I mean he can't be that bad if you're calling him that!"/p
p data-p-id="0aa83f9eaad95563e5a7eaca8cda0a52""Please! This beast isn't gentle, he's a monster, he, he-" Peach was trying to get her words out but mentally couldn't, tears were coming out of her eyes. Whatever this beast did, hurt Peach incredibly so./p
p data-p-id="bfbda760c90e5527c705d9720202c7ff""There there Princess!" Toadsworth comforted the crying Princess, hugging and patting her back. "You two!" He angrily asked he walked towards them waving his stick around like most senile old men do. "Why did you feel the need to bring that up!" He said furiously while he hit his staff on Mario./p
p data-p-id="9c239bdbed25063c5a91b84ac91e31cf""Ah!" Mario shouted. "What's your problem old man! How were we suppose to know that would bring back bad memories! Our city is gonna be taken over by this beast and you're not gonna do anything about? What if he comes to you next?"/p
p data-p-id="ae30391c07dc355f00961d0d57d82e90""Hm, It is inevitable sadly" Toadsworth realised while he stroked his beard. "The beast will not stop at your kingdom, he will get what he desires no matter what! We cannot stop him!"/p
p data-p-id="eb73c85bde7159257d974dd637ebe26e"Mario looked at the perilous situation he was in and came to a heroic, but stupid decision. "I'll stop the beast!" Mario declared./p
p data-p-id="8a4f47067200d391984ae2199297ae21""Tut tut tut" Luigi tutted. "Even in a new place he's already doing stupid things!/p
p data-p-id="970ff897b26b79d45635218bd82d557f"Toadsworth laughed. "I apologize for my outburst but you two cannot stop the beast, the strongest, most trained professionals and heroes have gone against him and have barely survived. It's only stated that a hero with a heart of gold, can find the power stars secret location and harness it's power!"/p
p data-p-id="11aefea9ea494f26d0902a4e8573a18f""The Power star?" Mario asked/p
p data-p-id="ce6df1452d6588ea3e11173f24b5f74d""Yes! It is just an scarce ancient relic that can make the person who uses it invincible! The catch is that they need to be pure of heart, in perfect on every way shape and form, and safe to assume you two do not fit that mold if you're making my perfect little Princess here cry!"/p
p data-p-id="fc3acec349542e69629dba81e2fc7c05""Toadsworth please!" Peach pleaded as she stood up getting over her sadness earlier. "I mean, he is small, and probably doesn't know how to platform, or use power ups or-"/p
p data-p-id="25447e8509119dbf1c293f1d45583785""Yeah yeah yeah I get it!" Mario interrupted. "But give me the chance! This beast is coming for our home! And I don't know what happened but he's hurt you and is probably gonna come for your Kingdom! Let me and my brother handle this! I mean I fought an Ape! How bad is this beast!"/p
p data-p-id="0eb6be8dfec1cb0494cf3be2fe15d67d""He can breath fire!" Toadsworth answered/p
p data-p-id="38e7cf970ad0041fac9e6918787f6d6c""Okay"/p
p data-p-id="14cff2398d670089f719bdfc33f3a30d""He has sharp claws, he can use black magic, he can throw hammers with pinpoint accuracy, he can revert to a impenetrable shell and has indomitable strength!"/p
p data-p-id="c2c64747feac94fc88983c75dd2dc1cc""Mario are you hearing this!" Luigi exclaimed. "I mean an ape is one thing, hundreds of those monsters is another thing but what this dude is describing is far from our reach! We should cut our loses and go home!"/p
p data-p-id="19926e979973b516d6e5ccda57fd906e""Go home?" Mario angrily repeated. "How can we go home when everyone and everything we know and love could be destroyed, we gotta try and stop him at least!"/p
p data-p-id="3093769b35e741832ca35e0c5b8b2667""Need I also remind you he is a King!" Toadsworth added./p
p data-p-id="31b529b5c000a1f78d9b5b2e3b8e1877""You know you must be really fun at parties!" Luigi sarcastically said, Toadsworth gave him a hit of his stick on Luigi's head./p
p data-p-id="1787b16d79b89e84732d9bd7a4273e17""Oh yes!" Peach suddenly perked up. "That reminds me, we're still supposed to be in a meeting! Come in come in!" Peach was saying as he brought Mario and Luigi with her into the meeting room./p
p data-p-id="591d8da7e686bd835421d6e282d31fdb""Sorry for that everyone!" Peach told her colourful council. "But before we end this meeting about my birthday party tomorrow, I'm afraid I got terrible news. The beast has returned!"/p
p data-p-id="a7479f8a3685ae793141c10e63b18ddc"The multi coloured council exchanged concerned and weary looks at each other as chatter commenced. The council was comprised of a red chef Toad, a orange reporter Toadette, a yellow Toad wearing his pajamas, a green mailtoad, a purple toad wearing a shirt and bowtie, a blue Toad wearing glasses, a scholar's hat and robes and a pink Toadette with pigtails./p
p data-p-id="820c7e9d85c3d515894cef4df8cecdd4""Everyone please calm down!" Peach instructed them. "I know you're scared, especially what happened last time but we have a plan! I will uncover the Power star's secret location!"/p
p data-p-id="473e08e6e8beed4a05430e14feed0acc""Princess!" Chef Toad shouted from his seat. "How will find it! The only people who could know where the star are the Yoshi's, and the Island has fallen from the beast!"/p
p data-p-id="5b18384d485047ded7fa12a793b133a4""I have reason to believe that the beast is the only one who knows where the stars location is." Peach explained. "With a plan, I'll find where it is and locate it"/p
p data-p-id="ba25fa6785b87c82136ba6c2c802145a""But who will harness the power?" The blue Toad asked. "We believe you are worthy!"/p
p data-p-id="86101b9e8166db3aef3a8043692c4b2e""I don't!" The pink Toadette exclaimed leading to another argument./p
p data-p-id="0688a2b302b5e9f33b129e6758336ccf""Well, this is where these two come in, introducing, Mario and Luigi!"/p
p data-p-id="3d5caa4dde04980449bacdfa381a0e3f""Hello" Mario meekly said. "I know what you're all thinking, he is the least qualified person to use the power star! But I defeated an ape! So uh, I think I can use the Star's Power right?"/p
p data-p-id="39d9beaa3559868e2d8b5a41e9940050""Can you double jump?" One of the council members asked./p
p data-p-id="8b3c0854a2df352fc430ac78fe9479fb""No"/p
p data-p-id="2830bb83561573741785c11ffd00f2fb""Long jump?"/p
p data-p-id="686ac9fd33f79fc0a73fbf5fa4402945"Mario shook his head/p
p data-p-id="3f895bdffd19e3ed330406422d63f73b""Wall Jump?"/p
p data-p-id="c2bbbf81043bd370535b3158cce371bb""Spin Jump?"/p
p data-p-id="1235e2221d8c7715e03d9fcc67fbbc02""Wallflip?"/p
p data-p-id="579fd402ff4628fe8308156ee0988df4""Dive?"/p
p data-p-id="36b091c7af55994910f701afbc17b97e""Backwards long jump?"/p
p data-p-id="7afac525abc944783f55d96809d7d9cd"Each question was greeted with a confused gesture by the brothers and shaken head, and safe to assume the council were not happy about this./p
p data-p-id="98e97f35997b0b02213d159b76a459d7""Excuse me?" The Mailtoad asked as he slammed his desk. "You cannot be serious Princess! First you show up ruining everything then you bring us two clowns in a time of crisis! These two plumbers shouldn't be even considered for the star's power!" The council was in disarray and throwing various items on the duo./p
p data-p-id="c967efe05a64e5c3561d09d6cae9ec47""Please calm down! I know some of you all thought that I could fulfil that role, but give these two a chance! Their city is in danger, let me train them and see if they're worthy or not!"/p
p data-p-id="f9dd9f27eb7f44ac1779b52ae24c08de"The council exchanged intrigued looks and chatter, they nodded their heads in agreement and unison./p
p data-p-id="dd7984cab0d89348394c37f94dc3a526""Meeting adjourned!" Toadsworth announced as he hit his staff on the ground. All the Toad council members exited their chairs./p
p data-p-id="e468af2be26a79786cdcb7a266341a6b""Wait" Mario stated "What are we doing?"/p
p data-p-id="477e614655b740ba2e087346ff0c1003""Well, in order to see if you're up for the task, I'm gonna test you!"/p
p data-p-id="dc09b6ce7e02966a963b8040884c9ca7""Oh man I love tests!" Luigi shouted with enthusiasm as Mario rolled his eyes./p
p data-p-id="c6698e5d3d596d16bfd28c1b383c3f9a""This test is gonna be slightly different from what you're used to, just follow me!" Peach said as she walked off with the brothers and her faithful steward./p
p data-p-id="cd7ff695437021f3904c45af35aa938e"***/p
p data-p-id="c05769f0bbe044886fc3e653b3017aea""AHHHHH!" Spike screamed, he was dangling from a sturdy leather rope that was attached to floating vehicle. It's name, the Koopa Clown Car was a white zany, flying contraption shaped like a ball, complete with wild eyes, mouth and a propeller./p
p data-p-id="d22dc53817c734156bbc71a5167c4e05""Oh quit your complaining!" Boom Boom instructed as he flew through the Darklands, He laughed as he decided to lower Spike ever so closer to the lava./p
p data-p-id="30afe0092f892fa140ebd9db0c6adb1a""STOP! STOP! STOP!" The once over confident handy man cowardly pleaded. "THOSE TWO SOLDIERS ARE GONNA KICK YOUR ASS WHEN THEY SEE WHAT YOU'RE DOING TO ME!"/p
p data-p-id="447607bd9d171e81f1da32e1000c7ac6"Boom Boom hearing this jokingly mocked him before realising he had arrived Bowser's Castle, the formidable fortress stood proud with its imposing black spires, fiery accents, and an air of dark grandeur. He parked the Koopa clown car before walking across the large, withered wooden bridge. He entered the castle and walked through it's packed overly candle lit hallways. In a short a while he reached Bowser's throne room./p
p data-p-id="0b2adaa5de6b0ce0ddfd74b96a85bd32""Boss!" Boom Boom announced to Bowser, he was still on his throne but was deep in thought, he was reading a map and studying it intensely, it only registered a few seconds later that someone was here to see him./p
p data-p-id="f81c2f30a4b6dde0d3dc89fd952e5aee""What is it you want." Bowser angrily asked as he abruptly closed his map and put it back on inside its case./p
p data-p-id="74eb6a4cba437488f8e49e9361bace91""Well, I have found another human in the workings of the industrial kingdom, he appears to know the humans in the Mushroom Kingdom" Boom Boom explained carrying Spike while he was crying in fear./p
p data-p-id="9d04856c76cf32356349100fa9128cc0""You can take him" Boom Boom told him as he threw Spike on the ground "He wouldn't shut up!" Boom Boom then watched alongside Kamek who appeared behind him./p
p data-p-id="7f397343f4ee70ba4b59256f90330829"Bowser got up his throne, smiled and walked towards him, using his black magic, he froze Spike in a purple stasis of sorts that wrapped across his body and brought Spike towards him./p
p data-p-id="e6161dbc3be2fa348de700d9ddfe2e03""What is your name?" Bowser asked intently./p
p data-p-id="5860eddd88c3ce1ee070962911745c34""Uh Spike!" He nervously answered as Bowser spun him around. "Spike Black!"/p
p data-p-id="5f3a3667e1c901f586a22172e552a683""Spike?" Bowser repeated confused as he stopped his spinning victim with a single sharp touch. "Why are you not green, with a grey shell? Can you spit spike balls from your mouth?"/p
p data-p-id="bd235ea4fc8acb7ab6a64b5a3d068ef9""No! Uh not to my knowledge at least!"/p
p data-p-id="7102d2242dfbb424150d56bef3263e5c""Well Spike if that is truly your name, my name is Bowser, I am unsure if you know who I am, but I'm about to get my hands on a relic, marry a Princess and, rule the world, starting with your pathetic kingdom" Bowser explained as he walked around with his claws at full display, freighting Spike to his limit./p
p data-p-id="02c8aad53dd3672fabddc74278bfa0dc""Oh well good for you!" Spike tried to clap but was frozen leading to an awkward laugh./p
p data-p-id="f44d7116f159e96a009190a10eb6d8df""But there's one problem Spike! There's two humans where my Princess lives, I have one simple question, do you know them?"/p
p data-p-id="25430ee775bc7047dc0fce16bc33ef68""Well" Spike pondered in silence trying to think of an lie. "No! No! There's like 20 Million of us where we live it's hard to keep track!"/p
p data-p-id="7a88676077170a6d6a997f12d09bf52b""Tough one to talk eh?" Bowser then laughed. "Maybe this will help!" He grabbed a single hair from Spike's beard./p
p data-p-id="187ffa12e3e3029f613ec2e7ea5796d2""The three of you have facial hair, is this how you get your powers?"/p
p data-p-id="edd7ad90365008f2d18ecdd8bc7ea773""Powers?" Spike repeated while sweating. "The brothers don't have anything like don't be ridiculous!"/p
p data-p-id="a0117377d813f3a58c29dde48770ed9c""Okay, okay..." Bowser told him before realising he said "brother" he raised an eyebrow and then constructed an angry face, he then procced to rip off one of his numerous beard hairs, just one caused immense pain./p
p data-p-id="cccd8e7010b3fd5702ab81835057dd39""GAAAAAAAH" Spike screamed in sheer agony./p
p data-p-id="5110db2b1079c59a65c1b32dbf29695b"Bowser then grabbed him as the magic ceased. "I'LL ASK YOU AGAIN! DO YOU KNOW THEM!"/p
p data-p-id="35bb0af4a73d65914692a349f7e24635""LISTEN PAL DO YOU THINK I KNOW ALL THE IDIOTS WHO WORK FOR ME WITH MOUSTACHES WEARING IDENTICAL OUTFITS WITH A HAT WITH A LETTER OF THEIR FIRST NAME ON IT!" Spike then realised he told the king to much/p
p data-p-id="e7402313625f3c8ff280a949950a9e01""Because, I don't!" He said nervously before laughing./p
p data-p-id="8c0165b1880f231fade1325816b0f4d9"Bowser then ripped more beard hair as Spike kept screaming. Boom Boom was watching in pure fear at what his boss was doing, he was trying not to watch by putting his huge hands on his but with each blood curling scream he grew more and more curious. Kamek meanwhile was watching intensely, his eyes were laser focused on the action as he created a faint smile./p
p data-p-id="bac73ad0d07f731f4558a23187dd0cdd""I CAN DO THIS ALL DAY!" Bowser explained to his victim as he effortlessly ripped out more beard hairs as the screams keep on piling./p
p data-p-id="737b1e473b59d57492dc10e7b44c3bd6""STOP! STOP!" Spike pleaded "I KNOW THEM! I KNOW THEM!"/p
p data-p-id="59082a69e63ef0bf921d6f9038fb3ae1"Bowser smiled and was in mid pull, he laughed before pulling his hair out once more. His once mighty beard was in a spiky and unfinished, shaven disarray./p
p data-p-id="15dd7dc0117605f9f002352eb373e100""Go on." Bowser asked sternly, finally calming down./p
p data-p-id="a36cf65df6463d03c4f91e5315a105b4""Their names are Mario and Luca! And they're the worst workers I ever knew see, you've got nothing to worry about when you take over the world!" While Spike was explaining this to Bowser he was sweating to the point where Bowser's near bear trap grip was loosening./p
p data-p-id="1cd4a2765c0a30f741b9023691dca03f""I sense you a lying to me." Bowser told Spike as he started to pull another one of his countless beard hairs./p
p data-p-id="5b1a60639779e5bc28d46ad40c21d085""Alright alright!" Spike pleaded. "Mario is one of the hardest and best workers I ever know! I don't care about the other one but Mario" Spike gulped. "If you're gonna go for New Donk City he's gonna kick your ass!"/p
p data-p-id="329a3cc096633e22cbb18d29f0ac1d78""DO PRINCESS FIND THEM ATTRACTIVE"/p
p data-p-id="7ec44a8d4ba296089f1f9ca66345b325""THEY DO IF THEY HAVE GOOD TASTE!"/p
p data-p-id="baa1d5422e9aac6da35c4c5229032524"Bowser completely losing it took the largest amount of hair and completely yanked it off. Leading to the loudest and longest scream yet that was echoed across the castle./p
p data-p-id="4944456486507426aab8b6a0c0ab0979""THROW HIM INTO THE DUNGEON!" Bowser angrily demanded as he throw Spike across the floor. "WE'LL SEE HOW TOUGH MARIO AND LILY ARE WHEN I DESTROY THEIR KINGDOM!"/p
p data-p-id="afea8b5220c712b23e544e87f89ef81a"***/p
p data-p-id="adbe19c244ebf6fb14c61a9496021c19""So where are we going?" Mario questioned as the four walked through the pristine labyrinth like castle./p
p data-p-id="40977b11ae17e4412ad3be83fb33dbea""The council don't think you're up to using the Power star" Peach told the brothers. "But I believe when you complete this, nothing will stop you!"/p
p data-p-id="62a02ba4b82a49603c48706dacbe285b""So you think" Toadsworth added./p
p data-p-id="0d687d4dc397b15b8c6ffbb3f64a8439""Anyway, here we are!" Peach announced as they entered an outdoor balcony./p
p data-p-id="ab1654ec7bfa9988bfb589e26b50a202""Wait for it..." Peach ensured them. And just in a few moments the balcony detached from the castle and lifted itself towards the mountains and near a pool of water. The platform stopped in front of a giant yellow question mark block in the sky. From the block, thousands of obscene objects emerged from it, forming a large robust obstacle course. Containing donut blocks that fall when someone was on them, several plastic balls on a stick that rotated, metallic piranha plants, foam bullet bills, moving yellow platforms and more floating question blocks, some with springs onto of them while others had pin point silver spikes. The impressive assembly of assets ended with a giant flag pole appearing on the middle of the platform./p
p data-p-id="4d1e3a7150563c44438e0038914c4997""If you make this training course, then maybe the Star can deem you as worthy." She explained this to the near oblivious Brothers With a graceful twirl and a confident smile, Peach elegantly maneuvered through the training course. The donut blocks teetered precariously under her dainty steps, creating a rhythmic dance as she gracefully hopped from one to another. Her timing was impeccable, and each block held firm beneath her, showcasing a blend of regal poise and nimble athleticism./p
p data-p-id="55a15bd922cc05da8714fee3ecff47ad"As she approached the rotating balls, emulating the unpredictable patterns, Peach showcased her agility, effortlessly and elegantly weaving and ducking through the spinning orbs with a dancer's finesse. The foam painted Bullet Bills whizzed by harmlessly as she gracefully sidestepped them, her flowing gown billowing like a cape in the gentle breeze./p
p data-p-id="7a98c59418f39b0a3a8a72284f054f55"Approaching the metallic Piranha Plants, she demonstrated keen reflexes, leaping over their snapping jaws with a well-timed jump. The moving platforms became extensions of her royal carriage as she navigated the course with a confidence that spoke of both grace and courage. Completing the training course with a triumphant flourish and twirl, she effortlessly grabbed the flagpole and spun around the pole, playfully showing off her skills. She took a deep breath and constructed a smug but adorable smile./p
p data-p-id="bb72ee4b3c3f39d769ea23d9f555900a""Mamma Mia" Mario awed. "That was incredible" /p
p data-p-id="84d0881bcdbe07802637237c0f4b5d9f""THAT IS HOW YOU PRINCESS!" Toadsworth proudly shouted leading to an awkward cringy silence. /p
p data-p-id="8147ee0a359440ccc064841ce0e82554""What a minute" Luigi wondered. "How are we gonna do that?"/p
p data-p-id="893904494a9ca17b02ddeeb396685e0b""Through this!" Peach exclaimed as she hit a question mark block, two red mushrooms with eyes emerged./p
p data-p-id="0f0d2c43cc7616d1eeef057cb4d75c1c""YEAH! MUSHROOMS!" Mario shouted/p
p data-p-id="40cc03c9eff853904485e93d100ddb8d""EW! MUSHROOMS!" Luigi shouted/p
p data-p-id="f80f85d62d9759c4d2a43a2974b1d9d1""Introducing, Power-ups! These give us special abilities, this one makes you stronger and faster, try it!"/p
p data-p-id="03886ec9dd0f622c517109f0c1c3fab3"Mario gobbled it up in one go and smiled profusely. "OH HO HOO!" Mario shouted "I feel, strong, and powerful, and awesome!" Luigi looked confused at how possibly someone could enjoy Mushrooms, but Mushroom was different, it slightly increased Mario in size and made him faster./p
p data-p-id="5dbc1400f82796ebc7cc02255c83cecc""Is there, like a cheese version of this or?" Peach not taking his weird question grabbed one of the Mushrooms and shoved it down Luigi despite his physical objections./p
p data-p-id="70a764f81caa6206986f0032e8b9d17c""Mario! you're up first!" Peach told him/p
p data-p-id="f040a2fc7039e2fe6a973f5178d60078"He took a deep breath before saying "Let'sa go!"/p
p data-p-id="3a7960b495c7224e07fffe6cf7eb44ca"Mario, ever the intrepid adventurer, breezed through the whimsical training course. The donut blocks responded perfectly to his rhythmic jumps, and he effortlessly platformed through the rotating balls reminiscent of fireballs. With nimble footwork, he expertly dodged the foam Bullet Bills, making every leap look like a well-practiced routine./p
p data-p-id="7d69634718dc725988d793c913d12a4e"The floating platforms seemed to align perfectly with his every leap, propelling him forward with confidence. However, just as Mario was on the verge of acing the course in flying colours, a surprise awaited him. An large mechanical Bowser, its metallic jaws snapping shut with a menacing clank, lurched unexpectedly from the ground. In a split second, Mario found himself caught in its jaws, a surprised expression on his face./p
p data-p-id="1c392651a513aa32743a182d331a3b98""AHHHH!" Mario screamed "GET IT OF GET IT OF GET IT OF!" He repeatedly shouted as his Power-up seemed to wear off./p
p data-p-id="c8f18e8ee3fb3b07935fde09eed29d11"Luigi screamed as Peach facepalmed and Toadsworth shook his head in disbelief. Soon after, he freed himself from the head's grip and fell down into the water below, lucikly, there were pipes that sucked him and spat him out on the platform./p
p data-p-id="23da8c50a85f7dfc5ac3ab0b36808809""So, uh how did i do?" Mario asked./p
p data-p-id="2f95f33f71dec0ab71c9dd6ab4b088f3""Mario" Peach said/p
p data-p-id="c5def36226c1f140ed2a7d1e75d08673""I know I know i did awfully!"/p
p data-p-id="3be00ee46fdbd855d3ccbce198f17920""No! I mean, in my 22 years running this Kingdom, i have never, ever seen one person beat the course, almost first time without any practice, I mean that's incredible!" Peach consoled the beaten down Plumber/p
p data-p-id="f2b80d5569a1fab1048bd5a7f4f9cda0""I don't know..." Mario morosely replied. "What happens if that happens again! I mean, the beast could bite my head off or What if i fall to my doom without those pipes!"/p
p data-p-id="fd2bc7f3febf211453f013e4e019663a""Just, go take a rest!" Peach told Mario "Luigi! You're up next!, Luigi?"/p
p data-p-id="7067a4d117a6cdd1815e726588f50d0a"Luigi was midway through trying to jump of the balcony and into the water below. "Oh no you don't!" Mario said as he grabbed his brother and threw him down on the platform./p
p data-p-id="d7593a5357bdbcc95d56a08fd6d9c458""This is nuts!" Said a frightened Luigi. "First weird Mushrooms that make me grow and then you almost got killed by a mechanical version of the beast! How are we saving Cranklyn by doing this!"/p
p data-p-id="716ffec3790298e9b639f7af623bf1f4""Come on bro! Just give it a try!"/p
p data-p-id="239fdf8e16bad8506dc8eaadc326bdf2""Ugh, fine, but I'm going once and then never again!" He sternly told his brother, he begrudgingly ate a Mushroom before starting the obstacle, he jumped, before falling into the water below where he ended on the platform just like his bro./p
p data-p-id="c24405cb25b49dd3f74b01c0382697bd""Uh... Okay, ONE more go, then I'm done!" He ate another mushroom before he started again./p
p data-p-id="87132d985037ac37aad50c6020dbce55"Luigi, with an eager but nervous demeanour, embarked on the whimsical training course set in another time and another, and another. Each time he failed, he kept on going no matter how many times he failed, which was a lot. The donut blocks beneath him wobbled with uncertainty as he timidly leaped from one to the next and soon fell down below, each time he understood the timings and carried on. Next, the rotating balls proved to be a tricky obstacle, and more often than not, Luigi found himself inadvertently colliding with them for a prolonged amount of time before he took it slow, ducked, and made it through./p
p data-p-id="7423c576caa2d687b0eed8247b2a7aca"The foam Bullet Bills where up next where they sailed through the air without a care, and despite Luigi's attempts to dodge, a few managed to catch him off guard, launching him into parts unknown. The metallic Piranha Plants, with their gleaming exteriors, seemed to be particularly unforgiving, catching Luigi off balance as he attempted to navigate past them./p
p data-p-id="265386f9a880d6abc04ad45a0f2fee2c"The platforms, seemingly taunting and belittling him, remained just out of reach, adding an extra layer of frustration to Luigi's attempts. His movements were hesitant, and he frequently mistimed his jumps, causing the platforms to shift and sway beneath him./p
p data-p-id="e48e65125725b0c06dc5cb92517d6843"All of this was watched by the three, Toadsworth laughed and guffawed each time he failed, but soon got bored of his lack of skill and left. Leaving Mario and peach alone watching him repeatedly fail, what was the morning, soon turnt to the afternoon and soon the evening, despite Mario's company however, Peach seeing no hope with Luigi, left also. Leaving Mario to watch his brother repeatedly struggle./p
p data-p-id="e86fc1bd73f28c2f7cc7bfe831ead40b"It was nearly night, Luigi saw his Brother fall fast asleep and hit the block one more time to eat a Mushroom, which despite repeated feastings he still hated. He gobbled it up, took a deep breath, and started once more./p
p data-p-id="fbb96e738f577e2f9a3af3d54093f9d4"This time, something seemed to click. The donut blocks, once treacherous, now became stepping stones beneath Luigi's confident leaps./p
p data-p-id="66e663b4594f827391fb797d370d42ee"With newfound determination, Luigi gracefully navigated the rotating balls, dodging them with a surprising agility. The foam Bullet Bills, instead of catching him off guard, were skilfully avoided as he weaved through the air using them as uneasy stepping stones. The metallic Piranha Plants, once menacing, now seemed to dance in harmony with Luigi's carefully timed movements./p
p data-p-id="37b48bc8a2434befb0d70a24f5760bdf"The floating platforms, which had caused him so much trouble before, responded effortlessly to Luigi's strides. He hopped between them with a newfound confidence, each jump perfectly executed. /p
p data-p-id="7f06579ba18a4646bf406b1162868833"As Luigi approached the final stretch of the course, the mechanical Bowser lurched forward. This time, however unlike his brother, Luigi anticipated its movement and executed a perfect jump, narrowly avoiding its mechanical jaws./p
p data-p-id="4a9b77871c4611bcf3da6237ac95abff"Triumphantly, Luigi crossed the grappled the flagpole, a beaming smile on his face. He then shouted a valiant and loud "WAHOO!". Peach who was reading a book in her chambers, went to the windows and saw Luigi celebrating as he finally beat the course and smiled. Mario, meanwhile was still fast asleep, that was, until his brother woke him up shaking him./p
p data-p-id="5ae696d894e5a6d18aaf72993a83713b""MARIO! MARIO!" Luigi shouted excitedly as he grabbed his brother by the arm. "I did it, I did it, I beat the course!"/p
p data-p-id="b758e541599b4a079d5801cdd305c671"Mario woke up and wiped his face, before letting out a big fat yawn. "Luigi" He said before he stood up and stretched his back. "You don't gotta lie to my face if you don't wanna keep on doing the course! Just say you got tired of it!"/p
p data-p-id="c87576b5a637ab004413bae8c924906c""But I did!"/p
p data-p-id="ab7ca38be53b1eb28ebd1a89557a9842""Yeah yeah yeah and I'm the Mayor of New Donk City! Now come on! It's nearly night, let's go the Castle! I need to sleep!"/p