While the Koopalings were planning their potential trip to the Mushroom Kingdom, the Mario Brothers were blissfully unaware of anything strange or unusual. After Bowser's impromptu visit, everyone seemed a little on edge anyway. Peach had assured the Toads, and Mario himself that Bowser could do no harm, and all he asked was a second chance, but it was hard not to be apprehensive about the whole situation.

Mario had reported everything to Luigi, who was just as surprised to hear about the peace treaty. Someone like Bowser, whose infamous temper was enough to rival an active volcano's explosions turning over a new leaf, was definitely startling-even if he was secretly fond of him.

"I'm worried," Mario said right after he came home. With Bowser gone now, and Peach's reassurance, he made his way back to their cottage to help Luigi with the garden. Crouching down on his hands and knees, he was currently pulling out weeds. "I know he's showing signs of changing, but I can't stop thinking about the what ifs. What if he snaps and decides to take over again?"

"Then we'll stop him," Luigi replied, calm as ever "I don't think he will though. If he was planning something, would he really just show up and then leave like that?"

"Guess not."

"You don't need to worry so much. That's my job."

He smiled weakly. "Ah, you're right. I just...don't trust him. I know he's apologized to you and now the Princess but I can't shake this feeling that he's gonna cause more trouble."

Luigi lifted a plant and gently placed it into an empty spot. All of their vegetables were barely sprouts, and the only fruits that had grown were strawberries. Still, Luigi was quite proud of the garden. They couldn't really garden much back in Brooklyn, so it was a nice change of pace.

He wiped sweat from his brow. "How about this. We give him a chance to at least sign the peace treaty and if he does something bad...or...problematic, we talk with Peach about it."

"And then we fight back."

"Ehhh...sure."

Mario nodded, taking a moment to rest in between weeding, as he sat back on the cobblestone path near the mulch. Luigi joined him shortly after, and the two brothers took in the clear blue skies above them. Aside from the scowling sun, it was a lovely day.

"Hey."

"Hey."

Mario pointed at one of the clouds. "Do you think that cloud looks like a butt?"

He squinted to examine it closer. "Nah. It looks more like a turtle to me."

"What kind of turtles you looking at, Lu?"

"Look, see the top part is its shell," He pretended to draw the outlines of the cloud as it floated away. "and the bottom is its little legs."

"Hmm."

"You don't think so?"

"No, I can kinda see what you mean." Mario replied. "I'm just..." He took off his hat, and started to fiddle with it. "Thinking about other stuff."

Luigi tilted his head curiously, silently asking him to elaborate, which he did.

"Well, it's uh...kinda funny actually," He said, looking away coyly, eyes darting a bit before settling on a lone flower pot. "But do you remember when we went karting?"

Luigi nodded. "Did you ever figure out who won? You or DK?"

"Oh yeah it was definitely me. But no, that's not what I meant. Peach pulled me aside and we talked for a bit."

He brightened, a knowing smile spread across his face. "And?"

"...She asked me out."

"Yes! I knew it!" Luigi pumped his fist in the air. "Bravissimo! Che buono! This is great news!"

Now that the nerves had worn off, Mario was beaming too. "It is, isn't it? It was...wow. I was so nervous I was shaking all over! Kinda like you when you see a chihuahua."

"Ha ha."

"And then, she asked me."

"What was it like?"

"It was..." Mario stared helplessly at his hat, then at the sky, his cheeks dusting a light pink. "It was magical. She's magical. I couldn't believe it."

"I didn't think she would do it so soon."

"Yeah me neither-wait, scusi? Hold on. You knew?"

"You mean, you didn't?" Luigi teased, jabbing Mario's overall straps with his thumb. "In all seriousness, Peach and I may or may not have talked about this."

Mario groaned. "Great. You ratted me out, and told her I had a crush."

"Actually, it was the other way round. She told me she liked you. So I told her: 'Well Princess, you have my full permission to date my unhinged brother.'"

"Unhinged?" He repeated, pretending to be stunned. "you did not."

Luigi's grin widened.

"Why you-" Mario lightly shoved Luigi aside, causing the younger brother to tumble into the dirt, laughing. In that moment, they were reminded how wonderful it was to be together again, laughing and joking as they always did way back.

"See? Unhinged behavior." Luigi dusted himself off. "So, when's she taking you and where? Tell me every single detail."

"Tonight, and to the Star Festival. It's this celebration of stars, if that wasn't obvious by the name."

"Oho, that's romantic. I think Lumalee mentioned that festival. It's not just about the stars, but what the lumas transform into. Sounds like it'll be a fun night."

"Hey, if you're interested, you should come with. Peach said it's really beautiful."

"And interrupt your date? No way. I'll stay back and enjoy having the house to myself, thank you very much. I'll see the shooting stars from the window, I'm sure." Luigi stood up at once, nudging Mario to join him. "We're almost done with the garden. Pass me that shovel?"

"Here you go."

Although Mario was only a tad nervous a few hours before his date, he was relatively calm up until the evening. That was when it dawned on him that it was actually happening.

Rushing out of the shower, dripping wet and dressed in his nice, dirt free overalls, he hollered out from upstairs: "Lu, have you seen my comb?"

"Uhhh..." Luigi thought for a moment, then called back. "No?"

"I can't find it and I'm freaking out a little!"

He exhaled. "Did you check the cabinets?"

"Yes! I checked everywhere, and now I can't find it!" He ran down the stairs, looking frantic as he entered the kitchen. "I can't see Peach like this. My stache is a disaster."

"If it is, get outta my kitchen, I can't have you messing up dinner. You shed like crazy."

Mario stayed put, eyeing the spaghetti hungrily, but still irritated. "Luigi, this is serious! I'm going on a date with a princess, I can't have her thinking I'm a total slob."

He turned over, his attention now back on his brother. "Mario..."

"Maybe I should just say I can't make it."

"Mario."

"Or...or maybe I can run to the store and-"

"Mario!"

"What?"

"It's in your hand." He pointed with the spoon. "The comb."

"It's in my..." Mario turned over and sighed, seeing that the comb was in fact in his right hand. "Oh. Heh. So it is. Sorry, I'm a bit...jittery."

"That's perfectly normal. Don't worry about it."

"I never get nervous though. Look at me, Lu, I'm shaking!" He held out his other hand, the light tremors on his fingertips slowly growing more noticeable. "Why am I shaking?"

Luigi sprinkled some light garlic and oregano into the sauce. "Because, and now hear me out ...you're nervous." Before he could protest, he spoke over him. "Trust me, I've been there. A little heart palpitations and sweaty hands never harmed anyone. And hey, you've been on dates before."

"Sure but those dates weren't with princesses from other worlds! Ugh, Mamma Mia, I'm gonna say something stupid and mess everything up." He darted into the bathroom to fix his appearance. When he returned without missing a beat, he gestured to his mustache, then his hair, then his clothes. "How do I look?"

"Ehhhh..." He waved vaguely, unsure if he wanted to say the truth or not.

"Good enough. Okay. Deep breaths..."

"You've got this. You the man. Who's the man?"

Mario smiled sheepishly. "I'm the man."

"You the man!" He repeated for emphasis, punching the air, and then lightly shoving Mario towards the door. "Now go on that date, and have a good time, alright? I'll hold down the fort until you get back."

He relaxed, nodded firmly, and gave himself one last silent pep talk before walking straight out the door. "I can do this. I can do this."

Luigi cheerfully waved and went back to cooking once Mario had left. It was indeed strange seeing his brother act so anxious about something so mundane as a date. This was the same man who saved lives for a living now, and he was naturally calm and confident.

Which was why he wasn't worried for him in the slightest. If Luigi was in his shoes, he would mess it up somehow. He would stumble over his words or trip over air. Mario's own charm would win over the Princess in no time, even if he was nervous.

And if he was being perfectly honest, he liked having the cottage to himself. After dinner he was able to enjoy a variety of nature documentaries without any interruptions. During one of their visits back to Brooklyn, Luigi had brought some DVDs to enjoy while in the Mushroom Kingdom-since their cable had nothing remotely similar to it. Mario was often bored by documentaries in general, but Luigi loved them.

David Attenborough's soothing voice relaxed him as he sank into the couch, enjoying the peace and quiet.

"Blast it all!" Ludwig shouted from high above the treetops. He had been traveling a good distance now without realizing. That was the trouble with getting too invested in his music. He ended up distracted, and flying in his clown car for far too long. It was now much later, and he was nowhere near home.

To make matters worse, his clown car was running out of fuel. He would have to find somewhere to park. Sighing, he shifted the wheel and landed by a village. With some luck, he would ask the locals for some help.

He couldn't help but think about his siblings.

No doubt they were relaxing at home without any more duties to do. Probably snacking on various sweets, or playing games while Ludwig was stuck. His clown car was in shambles and wouldn't have enough energy to fly back, but at least he didn't crash. All he needed was to find some fuel.

Wiping his brow, he made sure his vehicle was hidden enough before heading towards the village. It looked so familiar, with its mushroom capped houses and fairytale-like exterior. He craned his neck to read the sign by the gazebo.

Wait.

'Welcome to The Mushroom Kingdom!'

"You have got to be kidding me." He grumbled. No way some annoying Toads would help him. But he didn't have any other options.

To his dismay, there were dozens of toads scrambling around the town square. They all seemed happy about something, like they were preparing for a celebration. Some were even holding balloons and sparklers.

His eyes landed on a green toad who was by himself.

"Hey! You!" He had to shout in order to be heard over the other voices in the crowd.

"Aah, it's a koopa!" shrieked a yellow toad. "Run!"

Half of the toads sprinted away in terror, while the rest simply gave him a dirty look. Luckily the one he had addressed stayed put.

The green toad jumped in alarm. "Koopa! P-please don't hurt me!"

"I'm not going to hurt you."

He shielded his face. "I'll give you coins if you leave me alone!"

"Please, my clown car crashed and I really need help-"

"No, you're just saying that to trick me!" He squeaked, still looking horrified and disgusted. "Now go away, I'm gonna be late for the Star Festival!" and without another word, he had run off to join his group. Ludwig swore he overheard him say to his friends; "Omigosh guys, I was just attacked right now by a slimy, evil KOOPA!"

"Star festival..." Ludwig muttered to himself. "What in Jaydes' name is that?"

"It's a festival celebrating the stars," a small voice said from behind him. He turned to see yet another toad, this one pink with braids. He fought the urge to groan. She smiled at him and handed him a flier. "And all the lumas! You should totally come, it's so much fun."

He was surprised that she didn't seem frightened of him. "I probably shouldn't. I mean, you saw the way those toads reacted when I talked to them. Imagine if I showed up at some festival. They would freak out even more."

"True..." She replied. "Some folks are close minded like that. But hopefully with the peace treaty that the Princess signed with the Koopa Kingdom, there might be a chance that more people will be accepting!" She pointed back at the flier in his hands. "Hey...you know, you could come with me! I won't let anyone be mean to you!

I was gonna go with my bestie Luigi, but he decided to stay home because he isn't big on huge social events."

Ludwig had mostly been drowning out this toad's voice, but his ears perked up. "Did you say Luigi?"

"Yeah," She sighed glumly, gesturing behind her to a cottage across the street. "He lives over there with his brother Mario. I was kinda hoping he would come with me, because I don't have a lot of friends-"

"Yeah, yeah that's nice!" Ludwig tossed back the flier at her and began running up the street to the house. "Have fun at the festival or whatever!"

'If this Luigi is as nice as my siblings claim, then he'll help me!'

The toad girl blinked in confusion, then shrugged in acceptance.

"The devoted albatross waits patiently for his mate's response, but hears nothing. With the mating season nearing its end, it is likely he will remain alone forever."

Luigi wiped tears from his eyes, unable to contain his emotions at such a beautiful display of nature. He had learned quite a bit about the majestic bird, and was fascinated about how strictly monogamous they were. It was adorable, and hilarious especially regarding their unique courtship dance.

As the scene turned to a happier display, he heard a knock at the door. He sprung up in surprise, certainly not expecting anyone. Mario had only left about an hour ago, and he seemed eager to spend as much time as possible with the Princess. With a gentle rub to his eye, he waited for a few seconds to see if he was mistaken. The knocking persisted, louder this time.

'Perhaps it's dear Toadette.' He thought to himself. The poor mushroom girl had been devastated when she found out he would not be at the Star Festival and had tried begging him to change his mind. She did mend his guilt by saying she did invite some other toads with her, but he still felt awful.

When he opened the door to the impatient stranger at last, he was surprised to see it was not Toadette, nor anyone he knew from Toad Town. Instead, standing a few inches taller than him was a teen koopa with a green face, cream muzzle and body, and wild blue hair. He was not very big, but his broad shoulders and a singular sharp pointed tooth made him intimidating at first glance. Luigi automatically backed away and was prepared to close the door on him.

"Er...hello?"

The koopa shifted uncomfortably. He was definitely young, a teenager for sure. "Are you Luigi?"

'Oh holy ravioli he knows who I am. Should I be scared? Does he work with Bowser? Is Bowser here?'

He swallowed. "Si, that would be me. Ca- can I help you ah...?"

"Ludwig. Ludwig Von Koopa. I know you don't know me, but you know my Father."

'Ludwig...that name sounded so familiar. He swore he heard it before.

"My eldest... won't be joining us for dinner tonight."

His eyes lit up. "Oh! You're one of Bowser's kids! I don't think I ever had the chance to meet you while I was captured."

"How can you say that like it was a completely normal sentence?"

Luigi ignored him. "What are you doing here?"

"I know it's terribly rude of me, especially after everything my family has done to you...but I need your help." He stared at him desperately, ready to start begging as he explained the situation. "My clown car crashed and it's so dark, and I need to get back home so-" He paused. "I know I can't exactly be trusted, but I don't know who else to turn to." He ran a hand through his hair, growing more anxious the faster he spoke. If Luigi wasn't willing to help, he wouldn't know what else to do!

"Ludwig," Luigi stopped him gently. "Of course I'll help you. It would be against my nature not to."

He relaxed. "Thank you."

"And don't worry. I don't hold anything against your papá or your family," Luigi gestured for him to step inside the cozy cottage.

"Huh, my siblings were right, you are disgustingly nice." He plopped down on the couch and leaned against a pillow. "So how about you go ahead and get started on fixing my clown car?"

"Have you eaten yet?"

He scowled sourly. "I need to get home soon, and I'm not even hungry-" Right on cue, his stomach growled, and the human gave him a look™. "...Fine."

Luigi gestured for him to come inside and take a seat at the dining table, where he served him a big plate of spaghetti. It smelled better than anything he had ever had at the castle. Not that the food the cooks made was terrible, but this felt... homey. Stirring it with his fork made him realize that he needed to get home as soon as possible. He should never have practiced his music this long, and now he was basically in a stranger's home all because of it.

"Does your papá know you're in the Mushroom Kingdom?"

"No, but it's not like I'm a hatchling. I can go wherever I want." He started to eat his meal, but found himself struggling with the noodles, so he opted to eat it with his bare claws. Luigi watched him for a moment before gently demonstrating how to spin the noodles with his fork.

After a few times, he managed to do it- albeit messily.

"This is really good."

"Heh heh grazie. It seems you have the same appetite as your papá." He commented, amused.

Ludwig wiped his mouth. "You ate with my Father?" He asked him, too shocked to mention that he was actually adopted.

"A few times, si. When I was a prisoner, he invited me. It was scary at first, but then we spent more time together and...well, I don't know what we are yet, but I think we're at least civil with each other despite everything. Maybe friends? Heh, it's confusing."

"I'll say." He huffed. "Father's strange like that. Especially when it comes to humans. First with Peach, now you. He seems to like you more though, if what my siblings say are correct." He shrugged, ignoring Luigi's obvious blush and finished his plate.

"Thank you for the food."

"Ah, it'sa no problem, Ludwig, I'm always happy to fill an empty stomach," Luigi took the empty plates and walked towards the kitchen. Ludwig trailed behind, unsure of what else to do. "May I ask what you're doing here? Are you here for the Star Festival?"

It was a reasonable question. Sure, koopas from the Darklands never seemed interested in visiting the Mushroom Kingdom except for invasions. But with the peace treaty, perhaps that had changed their opinions. And Luigi didn't know the eldest child of Bowser at all, maybe he liked watching the stars.

"No. I only wanted to travel a bit to get away from my family." He admitted. "I focus more on my music when I'm alone. Having seven siblings, it's often difficult finding time for myself."

"Ah, I completely understand."

"You do?"

"Sure, I mean, I don't have seven siblings but I of course have Mario, and I used to live with my whole family...oh mio dio they drove me up the walls!" He smiled, as if recalling a memory that Ludwig couldn't see. "If I wasn't being bugged by Mario or my parents, I had my Uncle Tony steal my food and my little cousin pulling pranks on me. It was a lot."

"My younger siblings pull pranks on me all the time!" Ludwig brightened, happy that someone finally understood. "At least you get it."

"I do. And you say you practice music? Do you prefer classical like your namesake or..."

Ludwig gasped. "You know Ludwig Von Beethoven?"

"Uh...yes? Well, not personally-"

"Finally someone else who appreciates him! In my humble opinion, Beethoven is the only good thing brought from your world into ours." He crossed his arms. "He is a true artist."

"You mean was, right?"

"Was?"

"Mm, he died ah, two hundred or so years ago? Something like that?" Luigi was about to serve him garlic bread with his pasta but he saw Ludwig's distraught expression and stopped. "Is something wrong?"

"He's dead." He uttered, shocked and devastated. "No...I don't want to believe it!"

"Oh, dear."

"He lived a long life though, right?"

Luigi winced. "Si, he lived a very long life and...didn't suffer...when he died. So you're a fan of his music?"

Ludwig stuffed some bread in his mouth, forgetting all about Beethoven and instead decided to boast about himself. "I am! And soon, I'm going to be the greatest pianist. Even more so than my Father. He taught me when I was younger of course, but now I'm mostly self taught. He plays...alright."

Luigi's expression softened, remembering the time he caught Bowser playing the piano. He decided it wouldn't be wise to bring that up though.

"I hope I can listen to your music someday then."

Ludwig shrugged, using his magic to levitate the empty plates into the sink. Luigi smiled at the gesture.

"Thank you."

"Yeah, it's whatever. It'll be nothing compared to how you're gonna help me fix my koopa copter." He smirked, already strolling towards the door. "Come along, Human Luigi."

"Wait! I never said I would fix your ...koopa...mobile." Frankly, he was not a fan of being ordered around by an entitled teenager either.

Ludwig paused, thinking for a moment. "Hm, I suppose since you gave me food that already counts as a favor. How about if I spare you some of my gold coins?"

"Ah...that's nice of you to offer but..." His eyes darted away when Ludwig stared back at him. "That's not what I meant. I said I would help you get home by calling a parakoopa taxi or finding a warp pipe. I can't fix your clown car."

"Why?"

"Because I'm not a mechanic, I'm a plumber. And even if I was, I don't think your car is anything like the ones I'm used to." He knew this for a fact, seeing as he traveled in Bowser's one a while back. Something about the way Ludwig's eyes went wide, he had a feeling the kid had never been told 'no' before.

"You're really not gonna do it?" He asked. "But I'm a prince! Prince of the Darklands! I demand you to...do it. You can't say no to me."

"I've dealt with your father, of course I can say no to you."

"But Luigi-" Ludwig fought the urge to stomp his foot in frustration. "Father might revoke my driving privileges and my license if I don't return with it!"

"Would he?" Bowser always seemed to dote and downright spoil his kids. It would be odd if he did this to his oldest. Still, Luigi was a people pleaser and chose to follow Ludwig outside.

"No, but he won't buy me another one!" He growled, seconds away from shouting in frustration. When Luigi didn't even flinch, he backed away, ready to sulk off. He didn't want his dad finding out he had been wandering out so late.

"Don't worry, I'mma figure something out for you!" Luigi jogged up to him, giving a crooked grin at the koopaling. "In fact, I already have. Follow me."

"This better not be a trick," Ludwig growled, grumpier than before as he slumped behind Luigi. He didn't exactly have any other choice but to trust the plumber.

They didn't have to walk very far before Luigi clicked on his flashlight, revealing a clear warp pipe. "Voila!"

"A warp pipe! I can't believe I never thought of that!" Ludwig perked up. "And it goes to the Darklands?"

"Not quite. Just outside the forest leading towards it."

"And you know this...how?"

Luigi hesitated. He didn't want to tell him that Mario and he had built it specifically in case Bowser caused any more trouble. If he did, they would have an easy route to his castle.

"Wait, I think I have an idea why." He smirked. "My dad. You two Mario brothers want to keep track of him, just in case."

"You could put it that way, yeah."

They shared a laugh. Ludwig opted to inch towards the pipe, unsure how to properly say goodbye. "Well. Thanks for the food. And not...freaking out over me."

"No problem."

"Okay, goodnight."

"Goodnight."

As he was ready to crawl into the pipe, he stopped. "Wait." He stopped Luigi from turning away. "Thanks also for being nice to my siblings. They still talk about you, say how much they miss you and all that."

"Ohhhh." Luigi cooed. "That's very sweet."

"And my Dad..." He frowned. "You know he misses you too. But he's weird about it. Anyway, see ya."

Ludwig jumped into the warp pipe so fast that Luigi had hardly any time to dwell on those last words until after he was gone. His heart leapt into his throat, surprised and astonished that Bowser was thinking of him. Sure the letters were a good indication, but Luigi was still surprised all the same. It made him feel special. And the truth was, he missed him too.

With a sudden burst of determination, Luigi jumped right in after the koopaling.