Disclaimer I do not own the rights to Mario characters or One Piece characters.
Chapter 24: Purging the Sands
Outskirts of Alubarna
We see two figures making their way to the city. One is round and short and wearing royal red clothing. The other is taller and thinner, wearing a blue cape and a blue cap. They stopped once they saw the city and observed the Darkmess covering it.
"This is bad. What is that stuff? It's taken over the city."
The round one said that is when the taller one stepped forward.
"That, my friend, is Darkmess. An evil substance created by Cursa, a dark entity that defeated and possessed Rosalina. But Mario and his friends were able to defeat her and free Rosalina."
"Really? Does that mean Mario is here also?"
"Yes, and Peach as well. I can feel their presence. They are fighting back against Cursa right now."
"What!? Then what are we waiting for? Let's go help them already!"
With that, the two rushed towards Alubarna.
The Resistance Base
Beep-o has just arrived with Team Mario. Everyone was resting and waiting for Mario to show up.
"Hey! About time you showed up."
Nami said as she waved them down. As the ship landed, Luffy ran up to Mario and the others.
"Hey, you did it! Now all we have to do is beat the last puddle and then kick Crocodile's ass."
"About that, something's come up."
Everyone listened as Mario explained what he and the others had learned.
"A bomb!?"
Usopp yelled in shock.
"They're going to destroy the island with a bomb?"
"Not destroy, Usopp, conquer. The bomb will cover the island in Darkmess when it explodes, corrupting everyone on it. We'll be fine because of the Sparks, but the same can't be said for everyone else."
Everyone went silent at this revelation until Cobra slammed his hand into the table they were sitting at.
"Damn Crocodile, he had me fooled this whole time. And now he and his cohort are going to destroy Alabasta."
"Not if we have anything to say about it!"
Vivi interjected.
"We can stop the bomb and save Alabasta."
"No Princess Vivi, it's too dangerous!"
"Yes, let us handle it."
Pell and Chaka said, but Vivi shook her head.
"I'm sorry, but without Spark-powered weapons, you'd stand no chance against whoever is guarding the bomb."
"Huh, what do you mean Vivi? Are you saying someone is going to be protecting the bomb?"
Usopp asked in fear.
"Of course, I doubt Cursa and Crocodile would leave something so important unprotected."
"Oh no, I bet they're really strong too."
"Not to worry Usopp. With us working together I'm sure we can defeat whoever is guarding the bomb."
Mario said, reassuring everyone there. That's when Zoro stepped up.
"Yeah, about that. How are we doing this? The bomb is important, but we still need to beat Crocodile and Cursa. So who's fighting who?"
Mario thought about this for a moment and turned to the group.
"Okay, so here's how we're doing this. First, Zoro, Nami, Rabbid Peach, and Edge. You four are in charge of the puddle. Go in there, and beat whoever is in charge."
The four nodded in agreement.
"Next, Luffy, Ace, Luigi, Peach, and I will go and confront Crocodile and Cursa."
Mario's team nodded at this.
"That leaves Vivi, Usopp, Chopper, Sanji, Rabbid Mario, and Rabbid Luigi, who will go with the resistance to Alubarna. While they handle the army of stooges, you six will be in charge of finding and disabling that bomb."
"But Mario, the resistance will have no chance against Cursa's minions."
Vivi said in concern. That is when Koza stepped up.
"Vivi, ever since you and your friends destroyed the puddles, the Darkmess army has been getting weaker. We've been hurting and defeating them as we approach Alubarna."
"What? So we have a chance of defeating them?"
Cobra asked, Koza nodded.
"Yes, King Cobra."
"Then I believe Mario's plan is best. We'll support them while they take out the key targets."
"Good, now I know there have been tensions between us, but the people could use a morale boost from their king, now that we know Crocodile was the real villain."
"There is no need to ask. As king, I must guide the people, and I do not blame you or them for the actions of the past. Crocodile had us all fooled."
Cobra said as he went to speak with the resistance. While this was happening, Mario was going over his equipment. Peach then noticed Mario was bringing the Power Star with him.
"Are we going to need that?"
She asked.
"We just might. Crocodile and Cursa have the Power Star he retrieved earlier. If they try anything with it, we can use this to even the odds."
Mario explained. Peach nodded in understanding.
Skies over Alubarna
As the resistance approaches, led by Koza and Cobra, Vivi and the others fly over the clock tower. Once they were directly above it, Vivi, Sanji, Usopp, Chopper, Rabbid Luigi, and Rabbid Mario jumped out. They were going to land on the ledge in front of the giant clock, but then they saw something. The clock opened up and two people came out. They started shooting at Vivi and the others. They were forced to evade and move off course. As the ground was approaching Sanji grabbed Vivi and flipped to land safely.
"Are you alright Vivi?"
"Yes, thank you, Sanji."
"Hey! What about us!?"
Usopp asked angrily.
"I got ya."
Rabbid Mario grabbed Usopp while Rabbid Luigi grabbed Chopper. Both Rabbids held the pirates above their heads as they landed, leaving cracks in the ground. Chopper got down and instantly checked to see if Rabbid Mario and Rabbid Luigi were fine.
"That was a hard landing! Are you fine? How are your legs? Did you feel anything break?"
Chopper frantically asked. But Rabbid Mario and Rabbid Luigi just brushed the dust off their shoulders.
"Yeah, I'm good."
"Same here."
Chopper was left stunned at this.
"Hey remember, these two fought alongside Mario before they came here, and he's crazy strong. Makes sense they would be just as tough."
"Oh, you're right Usopp."
"Oh hey, you all made it."
Sanji said as he and Vivi joined the group. Usopp just glared at Sanji.
"Yeah, no thanks to you."
"Hey, I had to prioritize Vivi. She is the princess after all."
"Why I oughta."
"That's enough! We have bigger problems to worry about."
"Yeah, like who shot us?"
Vivi and Sanji's statements caused everyone to look up at the clock tower. There they saw two people radiating Darkmess. No doubt Baroque Works agents sent by Crocodile to guard the bomb.
"Oh my, Mister Seven, they evaded our attacks. Ribbit, ribbit."
"Oh ho ho ho, it doesn't matter, Miss Father's Day. As long as we keep them away from the bomb we win. And Alabasta becomes a country of Darkmess just as Crocodile and Cursa want."
Mister Seven was a man with puffy blueish-white hair and was wearing a purple coat that reached down to his ankles. His partner, Miss Father's Day, was a woman with a strange sense of fashion as she wore frog-themed shoes, dress, and headwear.
"Who are those two weirdos?"
Sanji asked.
"Mister Seven and Miss Father's Day, this is bad."
"Huh, why Vivi? What's so bad about them?"
Usopp asked.
"They only recently got their position, but their skills as snipers are well known throughout Baroque Works. It's said that they haven't failed a single mission yet."
This revelation terrified Usopp and Chopper. But Rabbid Mario and Rabbid Luigi were not impressed.
"Eh, so what? If they're snipers that just means we gotta get up close and personal."
Rabbid Mario said as he punched his Dukes together.
"I agree with the rabbid. Snipers can't do much when their opponent is in their face."
Sanji said in agreement. But the two Baroque Works agents just laughed.
"Did you hear that Mister Seven? They think they can reach us. Ribbit ribbit."
"Oh, how laughable Miss Father's Day. I didn't know the resistance sent comedians to fight."
"What was that? I'm gonna kick the crap out of you, you puffy-haired bastard!"
Sanji yelled. Mister Seven just gave a threatening glare.
"Try it, fool. But you better hurry. You only have two minutes before the bomb explodes."
This revelation shocked the Straw Hats and their allies.
"What, two minutes!? But the bomb was supposed to explode in two hours!"
Vivi shouted.
"Oh ho ho ho ho, that was a lie we told the others. Crocodile had a contingency in case they lost. Now you only have one minute and forty seconds left."
Mister Seven explained. The group tried to rush up the tower, but Mister Seven and Miss Father's Day shot at them. Despite being so weird, their skills were true and unique. Miss Father's Day would fire first, and then Mister Seven would shoot her bullet. The collision of the two bullets caused the shot to go faster and become more deadly. Our heroes barely had time to dodge the attacks.
"Damn it. We need to get up there, but how? We can't move while they keep shooting us like this."
Sanji said in anger. Mister Seven and Miss Father's Day were shooting nonstop and keeping our heroes pinned in a rain of bullets. It seemed hopeless as the clock ticked down. But then something happened. A beam of light came out of nowhere and pierced Mister Seven and Miss Father's Day. The two were purified of Darkmess before they fell.
"What the? What happened? Who did that?"
Vivi asked. Her question was answered when someone landed on the tower.
"So this is the bomb. Let's get rid of it."
The person said. They then turned to face Vivi and the others.
"Hey, Rabbid Mario, I need your help."
He shouted. Rabbid Mario jumped up to the top to help the stranger.
"Okay, I'm going to turn into a canon. I need you to load the bomb inside so I can fire it into the sky."
"Not if we can help it!"
Mister Seven said as he and his partner aimed their guns at the two.
KRAKOOM!
A bolt of lightning then struck the two, stopping their attack and knocking them out.
"Now that that's settled, Rabbid Mario, quickly!"
The stranger morphed into a canon while Rabbid Mario ripped off the bomb and loaded it into him. The stranger then aimed into the sky and fired. The bomb went flying straight into the air, high above Alubarna. Then *BOOM!* it exploded harmlessly, but there was still a problem.
"Uh, what the hell is that!?"
Usopp asked, pointing at the black mass that came from the bomb.
"It's the Darkmess. Despite the explosion not harming Alabasta, the Darkmess will rain down on it."
Vivi explained. Everyone was wondering what to do now.
"I got it."
The stranger said. His arm then changed into a gun and he fired a purple sphere at the Darkmess. It exploded into a bright flash of light that the Straw Hats had to cover their eyes from. When the light dissipated, they saw that it had eradicated the Darkmess.
"But how? I thought only Sparks could destroy Darkmess."
Vivi asked with the others wondering the same thing.
"Well, I can mimic the power of the Sparks. It might not be the same thing but it works."
The stranger explained as he jumped down with Rabbid Mario. The Straw Hats examined him carefully and cautiously. He may have saved them, but they didn't know anything about him. He was wearing a blue cape and hat and nothing else. He was practically naked! But that didn't matter as he appeared to be some kind of living wooden doll or puppet.
"Okay, but how did you mimic the power of the Sparks? Not even Mario can do that."
Sanji asked. The stranger was about to answer when the Sparks flew out and around him.
"Look, everyone! It's big brother *#&%."
The Sparks said as they danced around him. Everyone was confused when.
"Looks like we made it in time!"
Another stranger said. Everyone turned to see someone who seemed to be made out of clouds and was wearing royal red robes.
"Yes, we did."
"Okay okay, hold up! Alright, first things first, who are you two?"
Usopp asked wanting to know who the strangers were.
"Oh, sorry about that. I guess we should've introduced ourselves first. I'm Mallow, nice to meet you."
The cloud person answered. Everyone then turned to the other stranger.
"Let me guess, you're their older brother. Hemu... Hmmuex... How do you even pronounce that name!?"
Sanji asked.
"Well, my name is hard to pronounce for those who are not celestial beings. You can call me Geno."
The puppet answered.
"Okay, and are you really their older brother?"
"Hmm, yes and no. I'm a star spirit or guardian. I watch over and protect Star Road, a realm that grants the wishes of those in our world. I also serve the Star Mother Rosalina however I can."
Geno explained.
"Then why do they call you big brother?"
Vivi asked.
"It's because I, just like them, was born from Rosalina's power. Since I was born first, they call me big brother."
"I see, that makes sense. And why are you here? Did Mario ask for your help as well?"
"No, it was an accident that we are here. But, it was a fortunate one since it seemed you were in some trouble."
"Yeah, we were pinned down. No way to reach the bomb in time. If you hadn't arrived, then Alabasta would have become Crocodile's Darkmess Kingdom."
Usopp said.
"Glad we could help! Where's Mario by the way?"
Mallow asked.
"He and his team went to face Crocodile and Cursa."
Chopper answered.
"What!? Then we need to go help them!"
"It's okay, Mallow. Mario and the others got this. Have faith, they defeated Cursa before and they will do it again. We should help out the people here."
Geno said.
"Okay."
"Good, now, where to Princess Vivi?"
This question took Vivi aback.
"Huh, you're asking me?"
"Yes, this is your kingdom and we're here to help you free it. So where do you want us?"
"Well, now that the bomb has been taken care of, please help us help the resistance."
"As you wish. Come on Mallow!"
"Right behind you Geno!"
Geno and Mallow ran off to fight the Darkmess army.
"Well, come on? We should help too."
Vivi said to the others. They shook themselves from their stupor and followed Geno and Mallow's lead.
Back with the others
Beep-o was flying over the puddle with the rest of the heroes. As they approached, Nami, Zoro, Edge, and Rabbid Peach jumped off and into the puddle blocking the main entrance into the palace. As soon as they entered, the tentacles protruding out of the puddle retracted.
"Whoa."
Luffy was astounded by what he saw.
"Yeah, since a threat has entered the puddle, it retracted its tentacles to help protect itself. Now no one else can enter, and the extra Darkmess can help manipulate the battlefield inside the puddle. But don't worry, our friends will succeed."
Mario explained. Luffy just grinned at this.
"Oh, I'm not worried. I know our friends will pull through."
"Good, now it's-a our turn."
With that said, Mario and the others hopped off and ran into the palace to take down Crocodile and Cursa.
Within the Puddle
Zoro, Nami, Edge, and Rabbid Peach landed inside the puddle. They looked around and found themselves inside the alleyways of a city. They were about to move when Zoro evaded a shot taken at him. The group turned to see some stooges aiming at them. Edge and Zoro blocked the shots with their blades. As they did, Nami threw one of the pieces of her Clima-tact at the group. When it landed in the center an explosion of flames engulfed the group of stooges. Nami caught her staff piece as the now purified Baroque Works soldiers fell.
"We need to be careful. We don't know how many enemies are here or where they're hiding. So stay alert and don't get separated."
Zoro said as he kept his guard up and looked for the next foe. But soon the walls and floors surrounding the group turned black. Before they could question it, spikes began to come out, trying to pierce them. They evaded and moved but were separated because of this. As the four ran down separate alleyways to avoid the sudden attack they came across enemies. Rabbid Peach and Edge found themselves surrounded by stooges. The two just smirked as they got ready for battle. Zoro ran into the Darkmess-infused Mister One in an open street.
"Huh, so you're my opponent? I was hoping to fight that rabbid with the large sword. I heard she was Cursa's top fighter until she turned traitor, and wanted to see how our strengths compared. But I'll get to her once I deal with you."
Zoro got into a battle stance as he processed learning that Edge used to work for Cursa.
"Was that what the Lava Queen meant when she called Edge a Spark Hunter?"
Zoro put those thoughts away for now and focused on the enemy in front of him.
"Well, sorry to disappoint you, but you won't be fighting her. Because I'm taking you down here and now."
"Heh, we'll see about that. Even before I was granted the power of Darkmess there wasn't a single swordsman who could cut me."
"Is that so?"
"Yes, allow me to demonstrate."
Mister One rushed at Zoro at inhuman speeds. Zoro was able to dodge an open-hand attack from Mister One and counterattack, cutting his chest and stomach.
"Was that all?"
Zoro asked, expecting Mister One to fall, but he didn't. Mister One turned around and Zoro was shocked to see he was unharmed. Before Zoro could think about this, Mister One launched a kick at Zoro's head. He blocked it but noticed something about Mister One's leg, the part that was facing him was a blade. Zoro pushed off the attack and jumped back to get some distance.
"I see, you're a devil fruit user."
"That is correct, swordsman. I ate the Dice-Dice fruit and became a blade man, now my whole body is as strong as steel, making it impossible for swordsmen to cut me."
"Yeah, sure. I'll just have to be the first to do so then."
"You can try."
Zoro decided to get serious and took out his third Spark Blade. The two rushed at each other and clashed blades again. Meanwhile, Nami had just escaped the spikes and was catching her breath. That's when she heard someone laughing. She turned to see Miss Doublefinger sitting on a wall nearby.
"Oh dear, it seems you've been separated from your friends. Oh, you pour thing."
Miss Doublefinger said as she jumped down.
"But not to worry, I'll put you out of your misery."
She then thrust out her fingers that extended into spikes. Nami barely dodged the attack before Miss Doublefinger thrust out her second hand at Nami. Nami continued to roll away from the attack. Once she was safe she caught her breath and looked back. Seeing Miss Doublefinger's attacks allowed Nami to piece things together.
"Those spikes from earlier, that was you, wasn't it?"
"Correct, I am Miss Doublefinger."
Miss Doublefinger replied with a sickly smile. She then thrust one of her arms into the ground. Nami was confused until she noticed a black substance coming from Miss Doublefinger towards her. Nami jumped away as spikes came from the black substance. Nami was about to fight back but the black puddle was chasing her.
"What the hell!?"
Nami continued to run and avoid any spikes that came from the puddle.
"How do you like my spike puddle? Thanks to the Darkmess infusion I can make attacks like these that chase down my targets until they get tired."
Miss Doublefinger explained as she thrust her other arm into the ground to make another puddle that started to chase Nami around. Nami was having a hard time avoiding these puddles as they seemed to defy the laws of physics. There was almost nowhere they couldn't go. They climbed up walls, under doors and boxes, and cut off her paths into nearby alleys. As Nami was avoiding spike attacks she noticed something about Miss Doublefinger, she wasn't moving. Nami had a theory and decided to test it by throwing a piece of her clima-tact at Miss Doublefinger. Miss Doublefinger saw this and pulled her arms out of the ground to avoid the attack. The second she did the puddles disappeared. Nami smirked as her theory was right while Miss Doublefinger glared at her and avoided a purple explosion.
"So that's the trick."
Nami said as she caught the returning piece of her Clima-tact.
"What are you talking about you brat?"
"Your powers only work if your arms are in the ground, but doing so makes you immobile and unable to avoid my attacks unless you stop yours."
Miss Doublefinger continued to glare at Nami as she continued her explanation.
"Now that I know, I'll have no trouble beating you."
"You think so? Just try it then!"
Miss Doublefinger said as she got into a battle stance. Nami reciprocated the gesture and got into her battle stance. There was a moment of silence before Miss Doublefinger rushed forward. She trusts her hand out, her fingers turning into spikes, and attempts to impale Nami. Nami dodged however and threw one of the pieces of the Clima-tact at Miss Doublefinger's feet. She didn't have time to dodge as a brown explosion engulfed her feet. Miss Doublefinger saw that her legs were encased in stone.
"Damn brat!"
Miss Doublefinger attempted to free herself, but Nami threw the other two pieces of her weapon. The first one struck and encased the rest of Miss Doublefinger's body in ice. Then the second one struck and engulfed her in flames. The instant heating of super-chilled air caused an explosion around Miss Doublefinger. Nami caught the pieces of her weapon and looked at the smoke cloud, hoping that the fight was over. But unfortunately not, as Miss Doublefinger was still standing, and angry.
"You miserable, annoying, insufferable, meddlesome, stupid bitch!"
Miss Doublefinger yelled as she glared at Nami, causing her to step back in fear.
"I was going to make your death as painless as possible, but now, I'm going to take my time torturing you. I'll start with your eyes."
Miss Doublefinger said with a sadistic grin. Nami was about to try and run, but Miss Doublefinger rushed forward and closed the gap in an instant. She then thrusts her hand out and skewers Nami's eyes with her fingers. Miss Doublefinger smiled in satisfaction, but then Nami's image began to simmer before she disappeared.
"What!?"
"You know, mixing hot and cold air creates mirages. You need to be careful of those."
Nami said from the side.
"Thanks for the tip!"
Miss Doublefinger then stuck out at Nami, only for Nami to vanish again.
"What did I just say? I swear, villains like you never listen."
Miss Doublefinger looked back to see many Nami's. She continued to attack each one, hoping to find the real one soon. All the while, the real Nami watched from the roofs above.
"Good thing I made those mirages. I didn't think she would be able to stand after that last attack. Although, she seems to have been damaged greatly by it."
Nami said to herself as she examined the wounds on Miss Doublefinger and how exhausted she looked. She then looked to her Clima-tact.
"I just need to stay hidden until my weapon is ready again."
Nami then slid down and stayed hidden while Miss Doublefinger rampaged in the street. Back with Zoro, he and Mister One were still clashing blades. Zoro did manage to strike Mister One during every clash, but the damage he was doing was due to the Spark Blades. It was the Darkmess powering Mister One that was being damaged, not Mister One himself. But even that didn't do much as Mister One just replenished his Darkmess stores with the Darkmess surrounding the area they were in.
"Don't you get it yet? You can't hurt me!"
Mister One shouted as he rushed forward again. They clashed once again with Zoro slashing Mister One's stomach, but he didn't cut him, just the Darkmess. As Mister One and Zoro faced each other, more Darkmess came from the sky to replenish Mister One.
"Even the damage you do to the Darkmess is rendered ineffective, swordsman. Just give up, you have no hope of beating me."
"Like hell I will you dice-dice bastard!"
"So now you've resorted to insults? Pitiful. I guess I will be fighting that rabbid swordswoman next. Now let's get this over with already. I heard she could cut anything and want to see for myself if it's true."
Mister One readied himself as did Zoro. The two clashed once again but Zoro's fatigue was catching up with him and he was having a hard time keeping up with Mister One's assault. As they continued to fight, one of Mister One's attacks slipped through Zoro's defense and cut his arm. Zoro backed off to catch his breath while Mister One just gave an unimpressed look.
"And so it begins. I'll admit, you're better than most people I've fought and killed, but in the end, you still can't cut me. I can block your attacks forever, meanwhile, you'll eventually succumb to fatigue. Just give up. If you stop now, then I'll make your death as quick and painless as I can."
Zoro clenched his teeth and glared at Mister One's suggestion.
"Are you telling me to give up on my dream? I'll die before I do that!"
"That can be arranged."
Mister One changed his feet and fingers into blades and rushed forward. He was skating on his blade feet, increasing his speed. Zoro tried to raise his guard, but Mister One was too quick and managed to hit Zoro's chest with an opened palm uppercut. Zoro was sent flying and crashed into a pile of boxes nearby. He was breathing heavily and was bleeding profusely. He tried to stand but was in too much pain. Meanwhile, Mister One approached. As he did, he changed his arms into some kind of drill-like weapon.
"Huh, so what? You some kind of excavator now?"
Zoro mocked.
"I'm an assassin, though I don't mind being called an excavator right now. Since I'll be drilling out your organs!"
Mister One said as the blades on his arms began to spin and he thrusts them into Zoro's chest.
"Not if I can help it!"
Exosphere rushed out and used his power on Zoro. Thanks to Exosphere's power, Zoro was able to withstand Mister One's attack, but not completely. He still felt the pain and force of Mister One trying to force his arms into Zoro's chest. Zoro grits his teeth and mustered enough strength to push Mister One off and roll away. While he was still standing, he was exhausted and in pain. He had one last strong attack in him before he fell. Mister One just looked at him and shook his head.
"I don't get people like you."
Mister One's words confused Zoro.
"You're wounded, exhausted, and have used every technique possible to try and cut me. Meanwhile, I don't have a single scratch on me and am full of energy. Face it, you've lost! Just stay down and let me put you out of your misery."
Zoro just growled in anger, but couldn't deny that it was true. His situation was looking pretty hopeless right now.
"Hey!"
Exosphere called out, getting Zoro's attention.
"Why don't you focus on the inner energy in him and yourself? That's how Edge cuts everything."
"Huh, inner energy? Is that a thing?"
"Yeah, everyone can do it. When you do that your fighting power will increase by a lot!"
Zoro thought about this new information.
"How would you explain it? You said it could increase my fighting strength, how?"
"Hmm, well, the way Edge would explain it, mastering this technique will grant a sword the power to cut everything and nothing. Though, I don't exactly know what she means by that, but her skill and strength don't lie so there has to be something to her words."
"The power to cut everything and nothing?"
These words helped Zoro find a memory from long ago, back when he was still a student. It was a lesson his master tried to teach him, and he said those exact same words.
"Listen Zoro, this is an important lesson for you to learn. There are swordsmen in this world who are capable of cutting nothing, but it is these same swordsmen who can cut anything with that same sword, including steel. Strong swordsmen can protect what they want to protect and cut what they want to cut. Swordplay that always harms whatever it touches, well Zoro, that's not real swordsmanship. Do you understand now, Zoro?"
Zoro pondered on this memory until he noticed Mister One charging at him. He was able to roll out of the way just in time.
"Do you think you have the luxury of spacing out?"
"Bastard."
Zoro muttered. He then turned to Exosphere.
"Hey, do you think you can help me out? Can you help me see that "inner energy" thing?"
"Sure, but I used a lot of power to protect you the first time. I have enough to give you two, three attacks max."
"I'll take all I can get."
Exosphere nodded and turned off his defense power. He then poured his energy into Zoro's mind. Zoro began to see the world differently. He could see some kind of energy or aura around everything. His swords, the rocks, the trees, even him and Mister One, everything had some kind of energy or aura around them. He then tried to focus his energy on his blades, but it was too much. He was too tired to do it with all three swords. He put two of them away and focused the energy on one sword. When he did, he could see the aura around his sword flare up and change color.
He looked at a nearby tree and swung his sword at its leaves. However, he made sure the color of his blade was different than the leaves. Since he did this, the leaves of the tree were unharmed. Then he looked to a nearby rock and swung his sword down on it. This time, the aura of the blade was the same as the rock and he split it in half.
"Alright, I think I got a handle on it now. So, let's end this mister assassin."
"Fine by me."
Mister One and Zoro prepared for one last clash. Mister One crouched down, getting ready to use the same attack that sent Zoro flying earlier. Zoro, on the other hand, sheathed his blade and got into a crouching stance. The two stared at each other for a moment, before they rushed at each other. In an instant, they both launched their attacks and were at the opposite ends of the road. They just stood there, until Mister One coughed up blood and it was revealed that Zoro had managed to cut, defeat, and purify him of Darkmess in one blow.
"One Sword Style: Lion Song."
Zoro named this attack as Mister One fell unconscious and he sheathed his sword. Zoro smirked before he also fell with Exosphere's power running out.
"Whoo, that's all I got. Good job Zoro!"
Exosphere said as he fell next to Zoro.
"Yeah, I can't take all the credit. You helped out a lot. How about we take a quick nap? I say we've earned it."
"Yeah, just a quick..."
Exosphere didn't finish his sentence as his eyes closed and he fell asleep. Zoro on the other hand just stared at the sky for a moment.
"I was only able to use that power because of my Spark, but Edge can call upon this power at will. And it's not only her, the greatest swordsman in the world can do this, including him."
An image of Mihawk then flashes in Zoro's mind.
"I need to make this power my own. Otherwise, I'll never reach my dream."
Zoro thought before he fell asleep. As this happened, Edge walked out of an ally. She was watching and was ready to jump in to save Zoro, but to her surprise and delight, Zoro won.
"Not bad Moss Head, not bad at all."
Edge said as she leaned against the wall and waited for Nami to defeat her opponent. Speaking of, Nami was still hiding from Miss Doublefinger, waiting for her Clima-tact to charge. Miss Doublefinger on the other hand, was furiously destroying boxes and barrels trying to find Nami. She had attacked every mirage she could find but couldn't find the real one.
"Damn it, where did you go!?"
She yelled as she threw a barrel at a wall. When it crashed against the wall, she heard a soft cry from the alleyway nearby. She smiled, having found the real one. But she didn't rush in, instead, she took a knee, feigning injury and exhaustion. Nami peeked out, thinking this was her chance.
"Found you."
But Miss Doublefinger turned her head and grinned. Suddenly, a spike comes out of the ground and through Nami's foot. Nami let out a scream of pain as she fell over.
"Should've been more quiet, you bitch."
Miss Doublefinger said as she revealed she put her hand into the ground to create a puddle that stealthily moved to Nami's location.
"Who are you calling a bitch?"
Nami said, shooting a defiant glare at Miss Doublefinger. Miss Doublefinger was about to attack with her other hand, but Nami threw a piece of her Clima-tact. This forced Miss Doublefinger to pick up her hand and dodge the attack. The piece struck the ground and caused a purple explosion. Miss Doublefinger glared at Nami, only to see two more pieces being flung at her. She knocked them away with one hand and used the other to pierce Nami's legs, trapping her. Nami let out a scream of pain, but she still managed to throw the last piece at Miss Doublefinger's legs. The attack created a brown explosion, trapping Miss Doublefinger's legs in stone.
"You damn brat! It doesn't matter though, you're all out of tricks."
Miss Doublefinger had a sadistic grin as she aimed two of her fingers at Nami's eyes. She was about to attack when Nami started smiling and giggling.
"Huh? What's so funny?"
"Oh, nothing. Just, thank you for falling for my trap."
"Trap? Quit bluffing. You're out of tricks. I've seen how your weapon works. It only has four attacks before you need a recharge. Nice try, but it won't work on me since I've been paying attention."
"Obviously not, I guess being an assassin doesn't help with brains."
"What was that!?"
Miss Doublefinger wanted to skewer Nami's eyes right then and there but wanted to know what she was talking about.
"What are you talking about?"
"While you're correct that my Clima-tact is out of tricks, I still have my Spark."
Nami said as she pointed above Miss Doublefinger. Miss Doublefinger looked up and saw a bright yellow Spark charged with electricity.
"What, what is that?"
Miss Doublefinger asked, fear evident in her voice. Nami just smirked at this.
"He's my trump card. Now Electroid!"
"Time to bring the THUNDAA!"
Electroid yelled as he shot down a thunderbolt on Miss Doublefinger. She let out a pain-filled scream as she was engulfed by light. When the light dissipated Nami looked to see a charred and Darkmess free Miss Doublefinger fall unconscious. Nami breathed a sigh of relief as she sat down, trying to ignore the pain in her legs.
"Ow. Great job Electroid. You saved me."
Nami said as Electroid flew down.
"It was nothing. Still, I can't believe you stood up to her like that. You're really brave Nami."
"Oh, it was nothing. Just doing what I can. But I better get some treasure for my troubles! And some medical attention."
"I can help with that."
Rabbid Peach said. Nami turned to her in shock.
"Rabbid Peach! When did you get here?"
"When Miss Afro turned into a lightning rod. Now, hashtag healing vibes."
Rabbid Peach activated her powers and Nami's wounds began to heal. Soon the pain was gone and her legs and feet looked as good as new.
"Wow, thanks!"
Nami said in gratitude. But the world began to shake.
"Huh? What's happening!?"
"Oh, don't worry about it. The puddle is being destroyed now that we took care of these bozos."
Rabbid Peach explained. The world collapsed and Nami found herself outside the palace. She smiled until she saw Zoro sleeping.
"Why you lazy,"
"Hold it miss thief!"
Edge stopped Nami before she struck Zoro.
"He had a long fight with the steel guy. Let him rest a bit, I say he's earned it."
Nami was about to say something but stopped when she saw Zoro's wounds. She then turned to Rabbid Peach.
"Hey, can you heal him like you healed me?"
"I need time to recharge my power."
"Damn, I guess we gotta take him to Chopper then."
"I got him."
Edge said as she lifted Zoro. She waved down the ship so they could head back to base. Nami looked at her Clima-tact and then at Miss Doublefinger. She did it, she beat a Baroque Works agent. And a high-ranking one too. If only she had this strength when Arlong invaded. She shook her head free of these thoughts. No point in dwelling on the past. Arlong and his cronies are dead. She just hopes he's suffering wherever he is now. Nami boarded the ship, unaware of how true her wish was.
Side Story: A Dark God
When Arlong and his men died, their souls were sent to the afterlife. Or, that's what was supposed to happen. Unfortunately for them, Mario's appearance in their world caught the attention of some insidious beings. Beings who watch Mario and his adventures with great interest. As Arlong and his crew's souls were about to cross into the afterlife, a crack formed, and an ominous hand came out and snatched them up.
Arlong woke up with a headache. He rubbed his head and looked around. He saw most of his crew with him, but they weren't at Arlong Park anymore. They were in a strange land that was completely red. Arlong tried to remember what happened, and that's when it hit him.
"ARGH! That damn, fat bastard! He did this to us! He, he, he killed us. But we're still alive, how?"
"Actually, you're not alive."
A distorted voice answered Arlong's question. Arlong and his men looked and saw someone that looked familiar. That's when Chew spoke up.
"You! You're the one that killed us!"
"Well, yes and no. The prime is the one that killed you, but I was the one who put that thought into his head. You see, the prime is a hero. He smiles and gives a happy "Wahoo!" to inspire and bring hope to those around him. He also tries to spare his enemies as much as he can. But all those dark thoughts and feelings such as anger, hatred, regret, sorrow, and vengeance, all have to go somewhere. And that's where we come from. We are the culmination of all those dark thoughts and emotions he and his allies have. We are MARIO'S MADNESS!"
The figure said in a demonic tone as he revealed himself. It looked like Mario, but more sinister. For one, instead of kind sky blue eyes, they were black with red pupils that emanated sinister intentions. His teeth were sharp with blood leaking out of his mouth. His hands were covered with blood and he held a large, bloody cleaver in his right hand.
"What are you?"
Arlong asked in fear.
"Something beyond your understanding. For now, it's-a me, Mario."
"Mario" answered in the same demonic voice.
"And, what do you want with us?"
"Mario" chuckled sinisterly at Arlong's question.
"Right now, you and your friends are trapped in a state of limbo. Not fully dead, but not alive either. Lost souls trapped here with me and my slaves, FOREVER! Here, we can kill you over and over and over again in increasingly more painful and terrifying ways. And it would be so much FUN!"
Arlong and his crew cowered at this.
"Hey, where's Hatchi?"
Kuroobi asked as he noticed Hatchan wasn't with them.
"Oh, the octopus man? He's alive."
"What!?"
"Yes, when the prime hit him with his fire attack he survived. He was sent flying and landed in the ocean. Right now he is being nursed back to health by some mermaid he met. How fortunate he won't suffer your fate."
The fishmen backed up in fear as the demon in front of them gave a sinister smile.
"And, what is our fate?"
Arlong asked.
"As I said, you're ours to do with as we please. But I am willing to give you and your crew a sporting chance Arlong. We'll play a series of games. Win, and I'll give you a new life in a new world. Lose, and you're MINE!"
"Mario" answered. A fishmen raised his hand to get "Mario's" attention.
"Yes?"
"What if we don't want to play?"
A long tongue then came out of the darkness, grabbed the fishman, and pulled him into the darkness. The rest of the fishmen could only stare in horror as they heard his gurgled screaming along with the sound of flesh tearing and bones crunching.
"Does that answer your question?"
"Mario" asked. Arlong and his crew just nodded in fear.
"Good, now, first game START!"
"Mario" vanished and one word flashed in front of Arlong and his crew.
run!
Run!
RUn!
RUN!
RUN!
Stomping was heard and felt. That's when a large figure was seen jumping towards the fishmen.
"WAHOOOO!"
The giant yelled as it landed and crushed two fishmen under him. The figure looked like a distorted Mario with white skin, black soulless eyes, and was larger. Much, much larger. It gave a menacing smile to the rest of the fishmen, causing them to turn and run away from this thing.
"Get back here!"
It yelled as it gave chase. Arlong ran, determined to beat this thing's game and earn his second chance at life.
And that's the end of the chapter. I decided to do something new and add a side story based on a mod that came out recently. I hope you all like it, thank you so much for reading my story. Feel free to leave a review and have a nice day.