TW: Chapter contains a few brief depictions of swatting and doxing. Reader discretion is advised.
21 September 2019
Smash Mansion
Dear Diary,
Jasmine and Jake returned from their honeymoon, and I joined the Smashers in welcoming them back. They flew first-class to the Smash Airport, and then a limousine drove them to the Smash Mansion, where we'd lined up to greet them.
Jas was the first to emerge, wearing a casual dress and sneakers. Master Hand came forward and gave her a flower bouquet.
"Welcome back, Mrs. DeWitt," he said.
"Thanks, MH," said Jas.
Jake climbed out after his wife, also casually dressed. He smiled as Crazy Hand gave him a flower bouquet as his own.
"For me?" he asked. "Thanks very much!"
The DeWitts approached me and Mario as the other Smashers showered them with cheers.
"Hey," I greeted, hugging them both. "How was the honeymoon?"
"Eventful," replied Jas.
"Are the twins doing okay?" asked Jake.
"They are," said Mario, "and I'm sure they'll be happy to see you again."
"Jasmine!" called Julian as he and Jackie worked their way through the crowd, each of them holding a twin.
"Mom! Dad! My babies!" Jas exclaimed as she made their way over to them.
Jackie and Jules pulled Jas and Jake in for a group hug, and then they placed Joanna and Josh into their parents' arms.
The twins giggled happily as they were reunited with their parents.
"You two have grown," gushed Jas. "Have your grandparents been spoiling you?"
"A little," said Jackie.
"Well—how about we make up for lost time, hm?" Jake cooed to the twins. "Your mom and I are gonna spend the next few days smothering you with kisses and cuddling with you."
"As long as you don't go overboard," said Jules.
MH and CH hosted a reception for the returning newlyweds, who showed us photos of their honeymoon travels. The pair received VIP seating and accommodations for the rest of the day, and they made sure to attend all of my matches.
Later in the evening, Jas and Jake told me that they'd bought a new house in uptown Manhattan, a short bus ride from Julian's gym. Instantly, I offered to help them move in, and they accepted. Jules and Jackie would also pitch in, as would Kate, Claire and Ed.
I'm just happy they had a wonderful honeymoon, and that they've safely returned.
Luigi
24 September 2019
Brooklyn, NY
Dear Diary,
I spent the day helping the DeWitts move into their new home, and as promised, Jules, Jackie, Claire, Ed and Kate also helped out. We carried boxes from the moving truck into the living room, put up photos, arranged pots, pans, plates and silverware in the kitchen and set up the TV and Internet, among other tasks. When we weren't doing any of that, we were doting on the twins, Jas pausing every so often to feed and cuddle with them.
We worked hard into the early evening, but it was worth it. Jas jumped into Jake's arms and kissed him when the last box was unpacked. Then, we watched Jake carry his wife over the threshold.
"We're now officially in our new home!" Jake announced, he and Jas sharing another kiss.
"Congratulations, you two," I said.
"Think it's time for a housewarming party?" asked Kate.
"Maybe another day," Jas replied. "I don't know about you, but I'm beat."
Jake nodded. "Me, too. The housewarming party can wait."
We still had a mini-celebration of sorts, sitting in the backyard and helping ourselves to mini-pizzas, various desserts and soda. When I was filled up, I wished Jas and Jake well and returned to my old apartment.
I still remember helping Pauline move into Mario's place all those years ago, the euphoric rush of watching them take that major step. For Jas and Jake, it wasn't any different. Today, I helped them begin the next leg of their journey together. It was the start of something new.
Luigi
29 September 2019
Evershade Valley
Dear Diary,
It's oddly quiet here without Gavin and Miranda around. They've recently started their adventures in high school, which means they're spending less time in the Valley. Grace has stressed that these ghost-hunting lessons will continue as long as Gavin keeps up his grades. It's hard to argue with that.
Today, I sat with Grace and Becky as Gadd used an original Goo sample and the energy he'd extracted from the recently-captured ghosts to create an upgraded formula for Gooigi, which would be administered orally. Once Gadd was finished, he summoned Gooigi into the Lab.
"Okay, Gooigi," said Gadd, handing Gooigi a glass containing the formula. "I made you a special treat."
"Hm—what's the occasion?" asked Gooigi.
Oh, right, I forgot—Gooigi taught himself how to speak, with help from the home videos he'd watched with Gadd. He sounded just like me, except that his voice was a little gurgly. Now, back to our regularly scheduled program.
"You did such a good job helping the past version of Luigi," explained Gadd.
Gooigi shrugged. "Fair enough," he said, and then he downed the concoction in one gulp. "Wow—it kinda tastes like—me."
"It is you—sort of," said Gadd. "What you just drank will improve your structural makeup."
"An upgrade," mused Gooigi. "Nice. But how do I know if it works? I don't feel any different."
Gadd rose from his seat. "Come with me," he said.
We followed him to an obstacle course, which he told me he'd set up with Grace and Becky's help.
"All you have to do is run through this course as best you can," he said to Gooigi. "And—begin."
As Gooigi navigated through the obstacle course, Gadd, Becky and Grace took notes, and I intently watched my gooey clone. He was able to slip through grates and pipes, and he could also change shape and consistency when needed. Most importantly—he was completely unafraid. His fearlessness made me a little jealous, but unlike a certain Mr. Butter, I could handle it.
Gooigi flashed a thumbs-up when he reached the end of the course.
"Ho-ho!" he exclaimed. "I did it!"
Gadd laughed, clapping his hands joyfully. "The upgrade is a success!" he cried. "Since he can easily slip through tight spots, Gooigi will be the perfect sidekick! I was also able to make his body incredibly soft and malleable."
Gooigi confidently strode up to us. "What's next?" he asked.
In response, Gadd led us to the Lab's training area. "I want to see how well you two work together," he said.
I strapped on the Poltergust G-00 before taking my place back-to-back with Gooigi, whose own Poltergust was part of his gooey body.
Gadd started the simulation, and then Gooigi and I leaped into action, stunning the simulation ghosts as they came at us and slamming them repeatedly on the ground.
As the simulation gradually increased in difficulty, however, I began to notice Gooigi attempting to protect me from the ghosts. He shouted a warning whenever a ghost lunged at me from my blind side. He was visibly upset whenever a ghost landed a blow on me. When I took an especially hard blow, Gooigi would leap in front of me and pick up the slack until I regained my wits.
So, I returned the favor, growing just as protective of him. We began coordinating and choreographing our attacks, deftly switching between offense (slamming and firing Suction Shots) and defense (activating Burst) and staying close, two becoming one. By the time Gadd ended the simulation, Gooigi had become my third brother in all except blood.
"Come here, Bro," I said, opening my arms.
"Bro!" laughed Gooigi, accepting the hug.
"Excellent!" cheered Gadd as Grace and Becky stood next to him, all smiles. "I knew you'd be dependable, Gooigi!"
"Thanks, Dad," said Gooigi.
We spent the rest of the day in the Gloomy Manor's living room, enjoying the chips and dip and iced tea that Becky had fixed for us.
Luigi
30 September 2019
Smash Mansion
Dear Diary,
Four years after Master Hand caved to the sore losers in the previous tournament, I surprised Falco, and myself, by inviting him to lunch at the same restaurant where I'd ended our friendship.
"I overreacted," I said as we ate our starter salads. "I heard what you were saying, but I was too upset to listen."
"So did I," said Falco. "Why I threw a fit after I lost to you is beyond me. I've regretted it over the last 4 years."
"After Mario freed me from Dharkon, I saw you standing there, and I…" Tears welled in my eyes. "I miss you, Falco."
"I miss you, too, L. If I forgive you, then can you forgive me?"
"Gladly," I replied.
Falco and I hugged it out, and then we further talked things out over our main courses, our wine and our dessert. When it was time to pay up, we split the bill.
It's now official. Falco and I are friends again.
Luigi
2 October 2019
Evershade Valley
Dear Diary,
It was finally the moment Gavin had waited for. After three months of unconventional training, Gadd presented him with his very own Poltergust—the Poltergust CUP-1D! It worked like the G-00, except that it was more compact and easier for a teenager to carry. As Gadd helped slide it onto Gavin's back, the significance of the situation seemed to dawn on the latter.
"Congratulations, youngster," said Gadd. "You're now an honorary member of the team!"
"Thank you, Professor," said Gavin. "I promise to help you to the best of my ability."
Next, Miranda received her Poltergust—the Poltergust V3N-U5. Both had similar functions, but with a personalized touch. There was a Bluetooth feature, for instance, allowing them to listen to music on their phones.
"Wow," breathed Miranda. "This is a great honor."
Both teens shook Gadd's hand before heading to the training area to try out their Poltergusts, with Gooigi closely supervising them.
Grace's eyes were misty as she watched. "Is this a dream?" she asked.
"No," replied Becky. "Soon, you'll get to fight ghosts alongside your son."
"That's right," said Gadd. "You're no longer alone in this fight. And neither are you." On those words, he turned to me.
"Ah, Professor," I said warmly. "I never was alone."
It was the beginning of a new age.
Luigi
5 October 2019
Smash Mansion
Dear Diary,
I'd just finished an intense free-for-all, and I was on my way to take a shower when Julian called, sounding freaked out.
"Luigi—you gotta get down here now! Something—something awful just happened!" he exclaimed.
Spraying on some deodorant, I told MH that I had an emergency involving a close friend. He cancelled my matches for the morning, and then I raced to Brooklyn on the double.
I met up with Julian and Jackie at their house, and both of them were pale and shaking. The first thing I did was hug them tenderly.
"Please, tell me what happened," I said when we separated from the embrace.
"We were swatted, Luigi," Jackie blurted out.
The back of my throat froze. "Swatted?! Like—having an armed and armored SWAT team called on you?!"
"Yes!" exclaimed Jackie. "One minute, we were eating breakfast and getting ready to go to work, and the next, we had heavy weaponry trained on us, and we were on our stomachs with our hands behind our heads!"
"Are you hurt?" I asked.
"No, thank God!" gasped Jules. "We were able to explain the situation to them, and they quickly figured out that this was a prank. Then, we answered some questions, and they apologized and left peacefully."
"Who would do something like this?" I asked.
"That's what I was asking!" said Jackie. "We don't have any enemies—maybe it was some random Internet troll, looking for a laugh."
"Yeah—maybe," I said, but my gut told me that it was someone far more sinister.
"We're gonna grab some coffee," said Jackie. "Wanna get some coffee with us? We're buying."
"I could use some coffee," I said.
At the coffee shop, Jules and Jackie received frantic calls from Jasmine, Janice, Jamie and Jake. In short order, the pair assured them all that they were physically fine, just rattled, and that they'd survive this like any other New Yorker. They'd lived through worse than this, after all.
After our coffee date, I walked Jules and Jackie to work, and then I headed back to the Smash Mansion. Then, I went straightaway to MH's office and talked to him about modifying my match schedule so I could see about Gadd more frequently. Understanding the threat he posed, MH agreed.
If my gut proves correct, then my longtime friends are in serious peril.
Luigi
7 October 2019
Smash Mansion
Dear Diary,
I don't think the swatting incident two days ago was the work of a random troll anymore.
During my lunch break, Jules once again called me in a panic, and the news he bore chilled me to my very soul—he, Jackie, Jasmine and Jake had been doxed. Their home addresses, the locations of the gyms and even the places they liked to frequent had been leaked to the public. Within hours of their doxing, all four had received creepy and threatening phone calls. The klaxons in my brain were blaring as I told them to file a police report. Fortunately, they already did, and they were currently staying at a hotel.
"Peach can give you a royal escort to the MK gym," I said, "and hopefully, security at the Brooklyn gym will be increased."
"This is our livelihood," Jules said hotly, "and we're not letting some bullies take it away from us."
After I checked in on them, I hightailed it to Evershade Valley and told Gadd, Grace, Gooigi and Becky about what had happened.
"Double the surveillance, double the security measures—double everything!" I said urgently. "King Boo does not leave that Vault!"
"Will do," said Becky.
I practically ran to the Vault, and there was King Boo, a sinister smile on his face, threats hidden behind his eyes.
"Stay away from them," I hissed, brandishing my Poltergust for good measure. "Do you hear me?! Stay away from them!"
"How do you know it's him?" Grace asked later on, giving me some tea to calm my nerves.
"I just do," I said softly. "In that alien dimension, he directly threatened them."
"Don't let him get to you," said Grace. "That's the only advice I can give."
If only it was that easy.
She's right, though—this incident has me tightly wound. I guess I should sleep on it.
Luigi
12 October 2019
Los Angeles, CA
Dear Diary,
The Merricks and the DeWitts decided to get their minds off of recent events by attending Nelle's first birthday party with me. Rebecca and Gadd were also invited, along with Mario. We mixed and mingled with the Butters' neighbors in their backyard, dancing to the latest tunes and enjoying pizza rolls, nachos, Chex Mix and pigs-in-a-blanket. The birthday girl looked like she was having the time of her life as Gavin danced and spun with her. Miranda joined in the dance at one point, with Nelle comfortably nestled between them.
Later in the day, Grace and Roland brought out two cakes, one for the guests and a small one for Nelle. We sang "Happy Birthday", and the Butters helped Nelle blow out her candle. Immediately, Nelle dug into the festive pastry, leveling small handfuls of it into her mouth. Then, she turned toward Gavin, her face smeared with frosting, and offered him a handful.
"Nelle, are you sharing your birthday cake with your big brother?" asked Grace.
"This is just too cute!" gushed Roland, taking pictures on his phone.
After Nelle gave Gavin several handfuls of her cake, she proceeded to smear some all over his mouth. We all laughed at the sight.
"Thanks, Sis," said Gavin as his mom served him his own slice of cake.
Once we had our fill of cake, each of the guests gave Nelle her presents. There were onesies, baby toys and stuffed animals. Grace, Roland and Gavin thanked everyone on Nelle's behalf for their generosity.
The party ended at around 3p.m. Nelle was drowsy by then, so her parents put her down for her nap. Mario and I stayed behind to help clean up, as did Miranda and her parents, Gadd, Becky, Jas, Jake, Jackie and Jules.
"Jas—I want you, Jake and the twins to stay at your grandparents' place until things settle down," said Jackie. "Your dad and I have already made arrangements."
"What about you?" asked Jas.
"We'll be okay," Jules assured her. "Joanna and Josh should be your top priority."
"Jake and I will protect them with our lives," vowed Jas.
"We're gonna get through this," said Jackie, and her courage touched my heart.
Before I go to bed tonight, I'll say an extra prayer for Jules and his brood.
Luigi
17 October 2019
Smash Mansion
Dear Diary,
After a day full of Smash battles, I decided to pamper myself at the spa, soaking away the tension in the hot tub and clearing out the toxins in the steam room before booking a massage and a facial. Fresh and relaxed, I headed to my room, where a Mii awaited with the day's mail.
I turned on my TV and began perusing through the mail. Okay, bill, junk, bill—wait, what in the Inferno was this?
An invitation to a brand new hotel?
The invite promised a free, two-night stay at an upscale hotel known as—The Last Resort. Meals, spa packages and the gym would also be complimentary. On the back of the invitation was a photo of the hotel, backdropped by a picturesque landscape.
As I contemplated the invitation, there was a knock on my door. It was Mario and Peach, similar-looking invites in their hands.
"You got one, too?" we asked simultaneously.
"Well—I could use a vacation," said Peach.
"So, could I," I mused.
"Me, too," added Mario.
We called the number provided on the invitation and told the woman on the other end that we'd be happy to stay at this Last Resort. Our stay would last from October 30 to November 1—just in time for Halloween.
At dinner, Oliver called, telling me that he, Agnes and Alec had also been invited to stay at the Last Resort. Julian and Jackie had also received an invitation, as did Jas and Jake.
"We must respectfully decline," said Julian. "Jackie and I have a gym to run."
Jas and Jake also declined the invitation. "We have our hands full with the twins," Jas explained.
"I'm sure the staff won't take it personally," I said.
A free stay at a swanky hotel—am I lucky, or what?
Luigi
20 October 2019
Smash Mansion
Dear Diary,
Grace called me first thing in the morning. Turns out, she and her family had also received an invitation to the Last Resort! After some discussion, they decided that Nelle would stay with her grandparents in L.A., while Grace, Roland and Gavin would go to the hotel.
"I'll talk to Miranda's parents about allowing us to bring her along," said Grace. "After she and Gavin made it official, we've kinda become friends."
"You should also talk to the Professor about giving you some time off," I said.
"He's usually lenient," said Grace. "Right now, he's getting ready for a convention."
"A convention?"
"Yeah. Two days ago, he was invited to a paranormal research convention, where he'll get the opportunity to show off the ghosts he's captured. There will be free meals, and Becky's coming along, too. I'll speak with him tomorrow."
"Amazing, all of us being invited for a free stay at this hotel," I said.
"Roland and I will also write a note to Gavin's teacher," said Grace.
"Almost forgot about that," I murmured. "Okay, I'll talk to you later."
We said our goodbyes and ended the call.
But don't you find it strange that these invitations found their way to everyone I know?
Eh—I'd better not worry about that. I need to stop overthinking things, anyway.
Luigi
21 October 2019
Smash Mansion
Dear Diary,
There's no longer a question in my mind—King Boo is planning something.
I was soaking in my bathtub after the day's matches when I heard my phone ring. Quickly, I leaped out of the tub, dried myself off, wrapped the towel around my waist and answered it.
It was Grace, audibly struggling to stay calm. "Something happened at Gavin's school," she said.
"Was it…?" I gasped.
"It wasn't a shooting," Grace assured me, "but I think it was worse."
"Was it a threat?"
"Something like that. The homeroom teacher received a threatening phone call against Gavin. Then, the school had to be placed on lockdown because someone set a fire nearby. According to the fire department, the flames were an unnatural color—purplish."
"When did this happen?"
"Toward the end of class," breathed Grace. "I was at work when the Principal called, and Gadd gave me the rest of the day off."
"How's Gavin?"
"He's okay, and so is Miranda. They're at our place right now."
"Do you want me to come over?"
"We'll be fine. But thank you for offering. Gadd's still in Evershade Valley if you want to see him."
"You read my mind. God be with you," I said before hanging up.
After promising MH that I'd be back by 9a.m. tomorrow morning, I video-called Gadd, who Pixelated me to the Gloomy Manor.
"My boy, you look wound up!" he exclaimed when I arrived.
"You're d—n right I am," I said. "Is he still in that Vault?"
Gadd nodded. "He's not leaving it as long as I'm alive," he said.
"Why are you giving him phone and Internet privileges?" I asked. "He must've used that to find my friends' addresses, the location of Gavin's high school and put in a fake SWAT call."
"I've already suspended those privileges," said Gadd.
"For how long?"
"Indefinitely."
"It may be too little, too late," I cautioned.
"You really think it's him?" asked Gadd.
"I think back to the last time Grace and I fought him, and what he said," I sighed. "Furthermore, who else can create purple fire?"
"Luigi, I assure you, Becky, Gooigi and I will be watching that scoundrel closely from now on," said Gadd.
"If he even sneezes in a manner you find suspicious, then I want to be the first to know," I said.
Sliding on my Poltergust, I went to the Vault to check on my archnemesis, Gadd and Rebecca at my elbow. A sadistic grin was on his face, his eyes madly glinting. Clusters of Boos surrounded him, giggling happily.
"Why are you doing this?" I demanded of King Boo. "Why?"
He merely cackled in response.
"We're currently hard at work building Poltergusts for your friends," Becky told me after we left the Vault. "If he attacks, then we'll make sure they're ready."
"Thanks," I said, a bit distractedly.
I drank some tea before returning to the Smash Mansion.
Well—
Guess who's not getting any sleep tonight?
Luigi
26 October 2019
Smash Mansion
Dear Diary,
My friends and I have calmed down a little since the incident at Gavin's school. Worrying and stressing would be giving King Boo exactly what he wants, and I refuse to play into his hands. I've spent most of the day engaged in my Smash matches, keeping my blood pumping in the Training Room and packing for my trip. Also, I've spent my lunch breaks with Gadd, Grace, Gooigi and Becky, practicing with my Poltergust. They told me that Gavin and Miranda visit them after school, also getting some practice in after finishing their homework. In addition, they hope to have easy-to-carry Poltergusts ready for the Merricks and the DeWitts by the end of the month. I think that merits a huge sigh of relief.
It's time to stop mulling over the negatives, and focus only on the positives. Josh Sr. and Joan would've thrown a fit if they saw me acting like this. Besides, that Vault is impenetrable.
What's the worst that can happen?
Luigi
29 October 2019
MK
Dear Diary,
Mario, Peach, Agnes, Oliver, Alec and I have spent the whole day packing. Tomorrow, we'll board a specially-chartered bus and head for the luxurious Last Resort. We'll bring some extra snacks and clothes, along with some first-aid kits, in case something happens. One needs to be prepared, did you know?
MH gave us a week off, and Grace and Roland were able to smooth things out with Miranda's parents and the school. They'll meet us at Peach's Castle tomorrow, and then we'll have breakfast, get on the bus and go.
I have to turn in early tonight. It's gonna be a long drive to the Last Resort, and I've set my alarm to go off at 5:30a.m. tomorrow. We have to depart early if we want to reach our destination before nightfall. I've already chosen what I'm going to wear tomorrow—something loose-fitting and travel-worthy. Earlier, I chatted with the Butters, and they're just as excited about this upcoming trip as me.
Dio, tomorrow morning can't come soon enough.
Luigi