OK, readers! This is the 58th chapter of this story!
Now, this chapter is going to be quite an interesting one for me to write. After the autograph that the engineer signs is given to Bub, and after Bub gives Andrew something that he never expected to get from him, all eight of them are treated to dinner in the dining car.
All eight of them get what they want which kinda goes well with their characteristics and whatnot. Some insightful facts are revealed like how Bobbery claims the food is far better than what was served to him in the Navy, as well as a rather important fact about Vivian, and how she was never given any good food of the sort when she was with Beldam.
Additionally, the eight of them will do a favor for the conductor by getting him a blanket that was left in cabin #004, they encounter a ghost who is also a Toad, and they have to get him a diary from the luggage car before handing them the blanket, and a few other things will occur.
How will this go for Andrew and his group? Read and find out now!
IN THE ENGINEER'S CAR - AT THE FRONT OF THE EXCESS EXPRESS:
It took no time at all for Andrew and his group to make it to the engineer's car. It looked like any other train engineer room that was located at the front of the train. There was an engine motor to the side near the windows, which likely was what powered the train during its trip.
Running the controls at the front of the train was the engineer himself. He was a Toad, except he wasn't wearing the usual round cap on his head. Instead, he was wearing a black train driver's cap, which was smaller than the round caps that most Toads wear on their head. And his outfit was a black uniform that's typical of any train driver.
Andrew wasn't paying attention to the engineer just yet, as he was busy examining the room that they had entered.
"Hmmm, well," Andrew seemed amused by this. "So this is the engineer's car, huh?"
"That's right! Any kid would LOVE to see this!" Goombella announced before she did her best engineer impersonation. "Look at me, Andrew! I'm an engineer! WOOP WOOOOOP!"
"Woah. Not bad," Andrew smirked as he crossed his arms. "That was pretty good, Goombella."
"Thank you," Goombella smiled before she added. "Hey, but driving a train is 'really' nothing to joke about. I 'totally' respect engineers!"
"You and me both," Andrew nodded in agreement. "So the engineer must be in here."
"Ummm... Andrew?" Koops got his attention before pointing. "Wouldn't that be the engineer?"
Andrew looked and saw the engineer for himself. There was no doubt about it. His outfit pretty much gave it away.
"You know, Koops? I'm pretty sure that's him," Andrew nodded before he walked up to the engineer to get his attention.
As soon as Goombella, Koops, Flurrie, Yoshiam, Vivian, Bobbery, and Ms. Mowz were right behind him, Andrew cleared his throat and decided to get the engineer to turn around.
"Excuse me, Mr. Engineer," Andrew started. "Do you have a moment?"
"Hmmm? Oh, hello there, fellow passengers," the Engineer was quick to greet them as he turned around to face the muscular man. "What can I do for you?"
"Well, I'm gonna make this quick," Andrew got down to business as he gave him a spare paper that he had on hand. "We'd like for you to sign an autograph on this piece of paper."
"You want my autograph, sir?" The Engineer had to ask.
"Well, it's not for us," Andrew then detailed. "It's for the little Bob-omb kid; Bub."
"...Oh, it's for little Bub," the Engineer was quick to figure it out as Andrew nodded. "Well, yes, of course. Give me a second."
It didn't take long for the engineer to sign his name on the piece of paper, effectively signing an autograph for Bub.
"Here you are, sir..." The Engineer went and gave him the Autograph.
"Thanks for this," Andrew graciously took the Autograph.
"Anytime, sir," the Engineer then had to admit in excitement. "Gosh... I've never given out an autograph before... That felt fantastic!"
"I see," Andrew said. "Well, we appreciate this."
"By the stars. That Bub child happens to be a very lucky kid for getting such an autograph such as this," Flurrie said while admiring the Autograph.
"Yeah," Andrew agreed. "Just remember that I gave him an autograph too quite some time ago."
"I do recall that one, darling. I was there," Flurrie smiled before declaring. "In any case, I do believe that we shall make our way back to cabin #008 and drop that off to little Bub."
"That's exactly what I had in mind, Flurrie," Andrew smiled. "Let's get going, team."
They all nodded as they followed Andrew out of the engineer's car, and they made their way to the other end of the Excess Express, right before the luggage car, since cabin #008 was right there...
In no time at all, Andrew and his group made it back to the room that the Bob-omb family was residing in. Goldbob and Sylvia were still arguing, while Bub had been waiting patiently for Andrew to come back.
"Hello Bub," Andrew got his attention. "We've returned."
"Great! Soooooooo..." Bub trailed off before coming out to ask him. "Did you bring me the thing I want most?"
"We sure did," Andrew took out the Autograph and gave it to him. "Here's one Autograph signed by the Excess Express Engineer."
"Hey, yeah, bingo, Mister!" Bub beamed. "That's just what I wanted!"
"Great to know. That's the second autograph that you've been given," Andrew smiled before asking. "That reminds me, do you still have the autograph that I signed for you when we were in Glitzville?"
"Yes! Of course! And I'm keeping this autograph with the one that you signed for me!" Bub declared before admitting. "You're a good detective!"
"Well, it's all about finding clues and any essential information that helped us out," Andrew told him modestly.
"Either way, I appreciate this, Mr. Presto!" Bub said. "Here's something for you, just like I said."
"What is it that you want to give me?" Andrew raised an eyebrow.
"Hold on. Lemme show it to you," Bub then went and took out the special object. "Here it is."
What Bub had to give Andrew was something that he never expected to be given to him. It was a Shine Sprite. And it wasn't in a block.
"What the...? A Shine Sprite," Andrew uttered as Bub placed it into his hand. "Bub, where did you get this?!"
"Oh, that? Well, Dad had given it to me as a birthday present last year," Bub revealed before giving him a face that was the equivalent of a frown. "Only I'm not too fond of it, since it didn't do anything that I would've wanted, even with how shiny it is. So I'd like for you to have it, Mister."
"Well, this was very thoughtful of you," Andrew had to smile. "Thanks for this, Bub."
"Anytime, Mr. Presto," Bub beamed. "And thanks for the autograph. I'll take good care of it, just like the one you signed for me. I promise."
"It was our pleasure," Andrew nodded as he stared in awe at the Shine Sprite that he was given.
"Omigosh, Andrew! Jeepers!" Goombella had to yelp while blinking in amazement. "I didn't expect Bub to give you something like that!"
"Man, can't argue with that," Koops agreed. "Sure seems to be lucky that he'd give that to us... I never would've thought of it myself..."
"I daresay, it was a marvelous treat that he gave to you, darling," Flurrie sighed in joy. "We shall put that to use later on, when the time's right, Andrew."
"Yeah," Andrew nodded at this.
"Hang on," Ms. Mowz took notice of it. "Would that happen to be a Shine Sprite that you just got, dear?"
"Yes it is," Andrew nodded. "You remember how we first met at Hooktail Castle? Goombella, Koops, and I told you we were there to take down Hooktail."
"Trust me, my sweet. I remember it all too well," Ms. Mowz recalled that moment, as she also recalled hearing the word of Hooktail's defeat shortly afterwards. "And I assume that you got the one that I saw in the treasure room in Hooktail Castle."
"Yeah," Andrew then realized something. "You knew that I was going to collect these Shine Sprites all along, did you?"
"Hmmm mmmm mmmm mmmm... I wonder what gave it away," Ms. Mowz sounded as mysterious as ever. "Could it have been a coincidence? Or was there a more profound reason for needing to collect the Shine Sprites across the Rogueport region? Such as using them to aid your friends in some shape or form?"
"Yeah. It was definitely for that reason," Andrew nodded slowly. "And I've been collecting them ever since I found the first one in Hooktail Castle."
"I must say, I wasn't too surprised by this," Bobbery shook his head in amusement. "Goldbob was also quite the sharp tac when it came to collecting shiny objects that signify wealth through his eyes, if I may add. I am most certain that he gave it to Bub to provide him with some wealth of his own, eh?"
"It's possible," Andrew shrugged as he put the Shine Sprite in his backpack with the other ones that he had so far. "And yet, Bub wasn't too keen on using it, so he gave it to me. This makes 13 Shine Sprites that I have on hand currently."
"That's great, Andrew," Vivian said gleefully with a smile. "It was sweet that he decided to give that to you."
"It sure was," Andrew gave her a smile of his own.
"OK, Presto! Now that we're done with this, can we go get dinner now?" Yoshiam had to wonder. "I'm starving, dude! And it would be cool if we got seats in the dining car before all the food was gone! So what do you say, man? Can we eat now?!"
Andrew was about to say something about it. But before he could, his 'own' stomach was starting to grumble. The same went for Goombella, Koops, Flurrie, Bobbery, and Ms. Mowz too.
Even Vivian felt her stomach starting to rumble, showing that they hadn't eaten any lunch today due to what happened. So it would make sense that they would be famished at this very moment.
"OK. You got us on that one, Yoshiam," Andrew admitted. "None of us had eaten lunch today, so it would make sense that we should go eat something."
After sighing, Andrew nodded and commented on it. "All right, guys. Looks like we're going to eat dinner in the dining car. Let's head there and place our orders for whatever we'd like to have for dinner tonight. Since we're riding first class, we might as well eat first class."
"My, my! I daresay, I shan't agree with you more, sweetums," Flurrie beamed happily. "Shall we make our way to the dining car, to see what kind of fancy delicacies that they'll be serving for us tonight?"
"That's exactly what I'm suggesting, Flurrie," Andrew snapped his fingers. "Let's go see what they're serving for tonight's dinner."
All seven of them had given Andrew a collective nod. The Goomba, Koopa, Wind Spirit, Yoshi, Shadow Siren, Bob-omb, and Little Mouser were pretty much ready to go eat dinner in the dining car.
With that said, the eight of them left the cabin and headed straight for the dining car. They would ask to be given a seat at a table in the dining car before they could continue with placing their order for what they wanted for dinner.
And Andrew felt that all meals were covered by the ticket that he had in his possession. There was no doubt about that at all...
LATER THAT NIGHT - IN THE DINING CAR ON THE EXCESS EXPRESS:
As it turns out, Andrew and his group were able to get a table reserved for all eight of them, as it had already gotten dark out, with stars in the sky and all. All eight of them were seated at a single table, with menus in their possessions as they were wondering what they should have for dinner.
Judging by their expressions, they were impressed by the options that they could choose from for their respective dinners. Needless to say, this was going to be one rather eventful dinner for all eight of them.
"Wow," Andrew said in admiration of the menu. "There's a lot of good stuff being served on the Excess Express."
"Tell me about it, Andrew," Goombella agreed with him. "All of the stuff on here is just so 'totally' awesome! We can pick anything that we want from this!"
"Can't argue with that," Yoshiam couldn't help but smirk. "Whoa. What should I go with?"
"Well, I don't know what you guys are going to go with, but I've already made my decision," Andrew decided to share with them. "I'm gonna be having a plate of Spaghetti. And I'll have a bowl of Healthy Salad to go with it. And I'll have a nice cup of Zess Tea to go with it."
"Omigosh, Andrew! That sounds pretty good. And if ya must know, I've already decided on what I'm having," Goombella proclaimed.
"Really?" Andrew looked at her curiously. "What are you having, Goombella?"
"Well, if ya must know, I'm 'totally' down with having one of their Zess Dinner specials," Goombella shared. "Oh! I also plan on having a bowl of Healthy Salad too. A girl's gotta make sure to watch her diet even while adventuring, y'know? But I'll have a few pieces of Shroom Roast. And I'll also have a cup of Zess Tea since I'm digging one of those right about now."
"Wow," Koops gasped in awe. "Sure seems like you know what you'd like for dinner you two."
"Yeah. What about you, Koops?" Andrew then queried. "What do you plan on having for dinner?"
"Ummm... I saw that they're serving Koopasta. So I'm gonna have one of those," Koops exclaimed. "I'm also interested in having a Koopa Bun. And for a drink, I'll have some Koopa Tea."
"Whoa. Not bad," Andrew and Goombella blinked at this, seeming a little impressed by his dinner choice.
"Mercy me! That is a rather marvelous dinner choice," Flurrie exclaimed before sharing. "As for what I shall have, I daresay, I happen to be craving one of their Shroom Steaks. I do believe that I'll also have a fresh bowl of Healthy Salad, and I'll have some Zess Tea as my beverage of choice if that is quite all right."
"That's impressive, Flurrie," Andrew let out a low whistle. "Nice choice."
"Yeah. That sounds pretty cool," Yoshiam then said confidentially. "As for me, I know exactly what I want to get."
"I have to ask," Andrew started with a smirk. "What are you getting, Yoshiam?"
"Lesse, I'll be having six things of Keel Mangoes, six things of Peachy Peaches, five Apples, five Melons, three Bananas, three Coconuts, two clusters of Grapes, two Strawberries, and a Cherry on top," Yoshiam listed off all of the things that he'll be eating. "Oh, and I'll be having a Fresh Juice as a drink! Yeah! This dinner's gonna rock for sure, dude!"
"Jeez, Yoshiam," Andrew had to raise an eyebrow. "Are you 'really' gonna be able to eat all of that?"
"Hey! I'm a Yoshi, Presto! I've gotta eat what I can! You know, it comes naturally!" Yoshiam declared. "Besides, I look forward to having their Fruit Parfait and Mango Delight for dessert. Those looked wicked delicious from what I've heard!"
"Yeah. I should've figured," Andrew shook his head with a smirk. "I don't expect anything less from you."
"Ahem. A thousand pardons, dear boy. But if you're simply curious about what I intend to have, I would be more than glad to share it with you," Bobbery spoke up. "What I plan on having for dinner is a fresh hot bowl of their finest Seafood Soup, served with a bowl of their Inky Sauce, which of course, is made from the ink that comes from a Blooper's underside. And I shall also have a nice hot cup of Zess Tea if you please?"
"That's a very nice choice, Bobbery," Andrew blinked in amusement to that.
"Aye. That it is, Andrew," Bobbery nodded. "I must say, I am most certain that the food they'll serve here should be better than the food they served in the Navy, eh?"
"Whoa," Koops blinked. "You were in the Navy? Ummm... Didn't expect that..."
"Why yes, of course," Bobbery then shared proudly. "Why do you think that I would have joined the Navy during my service days when I was a wee young sea Bob-omb? What with my interest and desire of the sea, if you may."
"I had a feeling that you were in the Navy, Bobbery," Andrew couldn't help but smirk. "Considering that you are highly dedicated to sailing the seven seas. And that you are an admiral. I am not surprised."
"Indeed, old boy," Bobbery said calmly.
"Yeah," Andrew then turned to Ms. Mowz. "How about you Ms. Mowz? Aren't you gonna choose something from the menu?"
"Oh? You're allowing me to eat on this train?" Ms. Mowz asked slyly. "Even though I did not board the train legally?"
"Well, of course," Andrew nodded. "You might be under my care, but I am still gonna allow you to eat the dinner of your choice. And treat you exactly the way that I'm treating the rest of my friends who are traveling with me."
"Hmmm mmmm mmmm mmmm... Well, in that case," Ms. Mowz then decided to share. "I would like to order their Macaroni and Cheese dinner special, with extra cheese. And I'd like a plate of their Shroom Fry, also covered in cheese. As for a drink, I'll just settle with having some Zess Tea."
"That's a good choice, Ms. Mowz," Andrew nodded and smiled. "And I'll be happy to make sure that the waitress can serve it to you."
"Hmph! That sounds so 'totally' cheesy," Goombella huffed. "Not that I expect anything less from a total flirt such as you."
"Mmmm, yes," Ms. Mowz murmured slyly. "A flirt is exactly what I am."
"Yeah. I think we get the picture, you two," Andrew decided to get them to drop it before he turned to Vivian. "What about you, Vivian?"
"Huh? What is it, Andrew?" Vivian looked up upon hearing Andrew call her name.
"Aren't you gonna order something special for dinner?" Andrew had to query.
"Oh, uh, I think I'm all set," Vivian proclaimed hesitantly. "Thank you."
"Are you sure?" Andrew raised an eyebrow as he heard Vivian's stomach rumble. "Because your grumbling stomach is telling me otherwise."
"Well, I guess I could have a Mushroom or two," Vivian twirled her fingers.
"Vivian? You can have more than that," Andrew then looked concerned. "Is there something wrong?"
"Oh, look? I appreciate you doing this for me, Andrew. It's just that..." Vivian then frowned and looked down towards the table. "I've never been treated to a full-course meal like this before..."
"Why? Wait, lemme guess," Andrew decided to guess with a frown of his own. "Beldam never gave you any good food to eat, did she?"
"No. S-She didn't," Vivian shook her head hastily. "She...She only ever gave me one thing to eat, and it was always once a week..."
It was true. Vivian was only ever given one single Dried Shroom to eat from Beldam as her meal. And it was only once a week. Occasionally, Vivian would get one regular Mushroom, but that was only when she was lucky.
Otherwise, Beldam had no qualms at all with allowing Vivian to starve constantly while she and Marilyn got to eat all of the good food that they raided from innocent people from the shadows. Needless to say, Vivian never got a taste of the good life. Nor did she get the opportunity to be given a whole full-course meal of food.
Vivian then flinched when Andrew touched her shoulder, but she then looked up and saw his reassuring smile.
"Now look, Vivian. You don't ever have to worry about being treated in such a horrible manner ever again," Andrew assured her. "You will be able to eat a good-sized meal for dinner just like the rest of us. Well, except for Yoshiam, who eats more than the rest of us do. But still, I will make sure that nothing stops you from having a wonderful meal for once. Especially Beldam."
"I...I believe you," Vivian nodded with a smile. "But I dunno what to have. There's... There's so many good options to choose from."
"Would you like to have the meal that I'm getting?" Andrew offered her. "Some Spaghetti and a bowl of Healthy Salad might be a good idea. Only if you want it."
"Yeah. Yeah, that's a good idea. I want to have that," Vivian smiled dreamily at Andrew. "I'd love to have some Spaghetti and some Healthy Salad, just like what you're having."
"All right. That's fine with me," Andrew smiled at her. "Glad to know that I could help you."
"Believe me, Andrew," Vivian beamed. "You've helped me more than you know!"
"I can see that," Andrew said. "So I guess we've all made our decision on what we're eating for dinner."
"Yeah! Yeah! Let's rock, Presto!" Yoshiam couldn't help but bounce up and down. "Bring on the dinner!"
"Easy there, Yoshiam," Andrew had to get him to settle down with his hands held up. "Be patient for a little longer. I'll let the waitress know right away that we have already decided on what we're having."
A few moments later, the Waitress came over to see if they had decided on what the eight of them would be eating for dinner on the Excess Express tonight. Naturally, Andrew and his crew each gave her the respective orders that they had decided on.
The Waitress was satisfied with what they each settled on and would make sure to let Chef Shimi know about this so they could eat their meals shortly. They had waited patiently for their food to arrive, even though Yoshiam was eager to eat as soon as possible.
After a little bit of waiting, their orders were served and they were able to eat exactly what they were craving to have tonight on the Excess Express. While Yoshiam was able to consume his food bit by bit in a matter of seconds, the rest of them were able to enjoy and chow down on their meals.
Andrew was satisfied with what he was eating, as he wondered why he never took a vacation on the Excess Express before, aside from not having the money to get on board. The others were just as satisfied.
Goombella proclaiming that she had plenty of her share of food. Koops was rather ecstatic by the fact that they had made some good Koopasta and Koopa Buns. Flurrie was absolutely in awe at how divine the meal was.
Yoshiam went into town to eat his fruit special. Vivian was glad that she was eating a real meal for once. Bobbery was convinced that the meal was 'definitely' better than the stuff he ate in the Navy.
As for Ms. Mowz, she was quite impressed by what she ate, even though she hadn't legally boarded the Excess Express. To think that even though she was under Andrew's supervision, he would still treat her as if she was actually on his team.
Mmmm, that Andrew hunk is quite the charmer. He's certainly a sweet guy, for sure. Ms. Mowz mused in her thoughts. I'm rather impressed that he went through the trouble to make sure an actual meal was given to little ol' me. Truly he's someone that could use my company for this train ride on the Excess Express.
She was gotten out of her thoughts when Goombella decided to comment on having finished her meal.
"Ah, well, I'm gonna be honest with you guys, but that was the best meal I've ever had. BUUUUUUUUUUUURP!" Goombella admitted before belching and blushing afterwards. "Whoops. 'Cuse me. Y'know? Girl's gotta burp every once in a while. Even if it 'totally' isn't the most appropriate time to do so."
"It's OK. We understand, Goombella," Andrew assured her. "We all have that urge every once in a while."
"I daresay, that was the most divine Shroom Steak I have ever tasted!" Flurrie declared. "Why, I do believe that they shan't make them better elsewhere. Not even I, Madame Flurrie, could master such a lovely Shroom Steak such as the one that I've eaten."
"Yeah..." Koops smiled sheepishly. "I enjoyed my meal. Sure was great to eat Koopasta again after some time had passed."
"No kidding," Yoshiam grinned. "I already ate seconds, twice! That's how good their fruit special is here!"
"I can tell," Andrew tugged on his handkerchief. "You had the same plate twice in a row, Yoshiam."
"I know! And you know what the best part is, dude?" Yoshiam cheered. "We get to have dessert!"
"Aye. I must say, this was a rather smashing meal that I've had," Bobbery sounded pleased. "And the food they serve here is most certainly better than what was served in the Navy, for sure."
"Mmmmm, yes. I am also satisfied with what I've eaten," Ms. Mowz patted her snout. "Wasn't it just wonderful, sweetie?"
"It sure was," Andrew smiled before saying. "Well, since we have some time, we better get some dessert."
"Yeah! Yeah! All right! Rock on, Presto!" Yoshiam cheered with excitement. "Fruit Parfait and Mango Delight! Here I come, baby!"
"Ummm... I think I might have a Heartful Cake," Koops spoke up. "Koopie Koo and I have been wanting one of those for the longest time. I have to tell her about it once I get back to Petalburg, where I can share the recipe with her..."
"I think it's in the Cookbook," Andrew pointed out. "If you want Koops, I can show you how to make it later. That way you have something that you and Koopie Koo can have together."
"Gee... That would be nice," Koops smiled. "Thanks, Andrew."
"Anytime, bud," Andrew gave him a thumbs up.
"Ahem, if I may add, I happen to be in quite the jolly good mood for some Peach Tarts," Bobbery exclaimed. "Having that over some Zess Tea would certainly be the bee's knees, eh wot?"
"Right, Bobbery," Andrew encouraged. "That's a good idea."
"Precisely what I had in mind, old boy," Bobbery said.
"Hey, Andrew?" Vivian felt like asking. "What are you gonna be having for dessert?"
"Well, they have several good ones," Andrew mused. "But you know? I 'really' happen to be in the mood for a Couple's Cake right now."
"Why, darling! I happen to be in the mood for one of those delightful cakes as well," Flurrie gasped before giving him a seductive smile. "Perhaps you and I could share the Couple's Cake, hmm? Mr. Hunky Muscles?"
"Oh yeah," Andrew had a light blush on his face. "I'd love to share it with you Flurrie."
"Jeepers Andrew! A Couple's Cake requires two people to eat it together," Goombella had to admit. "And from what I've seen on the train, the Couple's Cake they serve here is twice the size of a regular one. So you would 'totally' need to have a couple of girls eat it with you, don'tcha think?"
"I guess you have a point," Andrew smirked. "Would you like to have some of my Couple's Cake as well, Goombella?"
"Awwww, you trying to ask me out on a date?" Goombella teased him lightly, which got him to blush. "C'mon! I'm kidding, Andrew! Of 'course' I'll have some of that Couple's Cake with you!"
"I'm glad to hear that," Andrew tugged on his handkerchief. "What about you Vivian? Would you like to have some?"
"Well, I uh..." Vivian gulped. "I wouldn't want to be a burden with eating it with you..."
"Nonsense," Andrew told her. "I would love to share it with you too."
"Oh, well, OK," Vivian smiled with a blush emerging on her face. "Thanks, Andrew."
"Anytime, Vivian," Andrew patted her shoulder.
"Hmmm mmmm mmmm mmmm... Yes," Ms. Mowz smirked slyly. "A Couple's Cake would sound nice right about now. I wouldn't mind having some. Andrew? Got some room for one more lady?"
"Pffft! As if!" Goombella huffed. "Like we'd 'totally' wanna share it with you, floozy!"
"Goombella, please," Andrew told her, which got her to stop. "Ms. Mowz is welcome to have some too."
"I'm sure glad to hear that come from you, sweetie," Ms. Mowz smiled before winking at him.
"Anytime," Andrew said while lightly blushing. "Now that that's all set, let's get out dessert."
After Yoshiam let out a loud whoop, Andrew got the desserts ordered. Koops was able to get his Heartful Cake and found out why Koopie Koo wanted to share one with him so badly. Bobbery was able to enjoy his Peachy Tarts over a cup of Zess Tea, which he found to be charming and astounding. And Yoshiam went to town with both the Fruit Parfait and the Mango Delight. Needless to say, Yoshiam was amazed by what he had eaten as a result.
As for Andrew, he had issued a large Couple's Cake, which he shared with Goombella, Flurrie, Vivian, and Ms. Mowz.
Naturally, all four women were pleased to have shared it with him, and they couldn't have thought of a better handsome man to have eaten it with than Andrew. The muscular man was blushing as a result, as he too, had enjoyed the Couple's Cake.
As soon as they were done with dessert, Andrew decided to take his leave with the Goomba, Koopa, Wind Spirit, Yoshi, Shadow Siren, Bob-omb, and Little Mouser joining him. Andrew let the Waitress know that he was all set for the night.
The Excess Express Waitress was delighted to know that he and his group enjoyed their dinner and the dessert that they were given. She was also flattered that Yoshiam enjoyed the food that he was served, which he went to town to eat.
Andrew had promised that he would come to her the moment he found her Shell Earrings, which he hoped that he'd find tomorrow, along with Toodle's Gold Ring. Naturally, the Waitress sweetly told him that she'd be waiting for it.
"Well, now that we got that out of the way," Andrew walked to the door leading to the passenger car to the left, where the Conductor was located. "Why don't we go see the Conductor to see if he has anything for us before we turn in for the night?"
"Good idea," Goombella proclaimed before suggesting. "But first, it might be a good idea to inform Pennington about how Bub just wanted an autograph, don'tcha think?"
"Yeah. I guess so," Andrew sighed. "It would be smart to clue him in on what we found out that Bub 'really' wanted for his birthday. Let's go tell him the big scoop."
All seven of them nodded in agreement as the eight of them headed straight for Pennington's cabin, which was #006. It didn't take long for them to get into his cabin, where they had met up with Pennington, and Andrew gave him the full scoop as to what Bub wanted.
"So yeah," Andrew had explained to him. "It turns out that Bub only wanted an autograph for his birthday. Specifically, an autograph signed by the Excess Express Engineer. So it looks like that clears their names."
"Is that so? Mmmmm...yes," Pennington rubbed his chin right underneath his beak. "Just as I suspected..."
"Yeah," Andrew nodded. "So the Bob-omb family is pretty much innocent, and they aren't the ones who wrote that sticky yummy threat."
"Yes. So it may seem," it was then Pennington decided to fill Andrew in on something important. "Oh, the conductor just came by looking for you, Mario."
"He has?" Andrew raised an eyebrow.
"This smells of a new mystery!" Pennington declared.
"Huh," Andrew looked confused by this. "I wonder what the conductor wants from us."
"Only one way to find out, right?" Goombella smiled. "We 'totally' should check in with him."
"Right," Andrew nodded as he walked out of Pennington's room along with his group.
As soon as they left the room, they went over to where the conductor was standing, as Andrew got his attention.
"Excuse me, Mr. Conductor?" Andrew asked.
"Mr. Andrew!" The Conductor seemed eager to see him. "I'm glad you spoke to me! I just remembered something suspicious!"
"Yeah. I was told that you needed me for something," Andrew gave him a curious look. "So, what's going on?"
"I'll tell you," the Conductor got down to business. "I found myself one blanket short when I was handing them out to passengers. I gave the last passenger my 'own' blanket to make up for it, but it's vexing..."
"Gee whiz, wonder what happened to it," Koops seemed confused by this. "You think maybe that you might've given someone an extra blanket by mistake?"
"I couldn't have done so," the Conductor shook his head. "I have exact blanket counts."
"By the stars! Whatever does that mean, Mr. Conductor, sir?" Flurrie raised an eyebrow at this.
"It means someone came on board without a ticket, just as I figured..." The Conductor explained. "Now, the white mouse girl that you are supervising couldn't have been given a blanket, since I kept track of everyone on the train."
"Hmmm mmmm mmmm... Yes," Ms. Mowz nodded. "There's also the fact that I didn't even claim my 'own' room..."
"I know that," the Conductor sighed. "But since it couldn't have been that white mouse of yours, it has to be someone else. And that stowaway just might be your suspect, Mr. Andrew."
"It's possible," Andrew shrugged. "But we don't know which room he or she might be hiding out in..."
"Not only that but if I don't get my blanket back, I'll be too chilly to sleep tonight," the Conductor then requested. "If you could look for the unticketed passenger and get that blanket...I'd thank you."
"Whoa! You think the scumbag who wrote that sticky yummy threat to us might have stolen a blanket from you?" Yoshiam had to blink. "Do you know which room this jerk might be hiding in, dude? It would be a big help for Presto and the rest of us!"
"Hmmmm... If I'm not mistaken, I'm more than certain that it could be someone in cabin #004, which is right next to your room, Andrew," the Conductor exclaimed. "The only problem is that I've never seen the person who is booking that cabin in the first place."
"Hrmmm... I must say, that sounds to be a tad bit suspicious, dear boy," Bobbery had to admit. "Perhaps the chap might not like the company of others checking into his cabin. Why, I am most certain that the boy values his privacy, eh?"
"I guess. But I can't take any chances. I'd like to have that room checked out to find out who's residing there," the Conductor then sighed and gave Andrew a frown. "But if you don't want to, then that's OK... I guess I'll just huddle under a candy wrapper..."
Andrew had to give him a look. Was he seriously gonna try pulling this kind of stunt to convince him to help? Even though he would've helped out anyway regardless? This did not sit well with him.
"OK! OK! Come on! Knock it off, will you?! Don't give me any of that pity party nonsense," Andrew had to tell him sharply before sighing. "Look, if it'll help, I'll be willing to help get that blanket back and find out who is staying in cabin 4."
"Honestly?" The Conductor had to make sure he wasn't hearing anything.
"Yes," Andrew nodded. "I would've been willing to help you anyway because that's just the kind of man that I am."
"Great, thanks!" The Conductor shook his hand. "Well, I have to keep watch here, but I'll be waiting for the good news!"
"Sure. We're always happy to help," Andrew said as the Conductor finished shaking his hand. "All right, guys. Let's head to Cabin #004."
"Good idea, Andrew," Vivian nodded. "Maybe it might be the meanie who wrote us that threatening note. We can find out who this person is that tried to threaten us."
"Exactly," Andrew smiled. "Let's go check it out."
And so, all eight of them went through the Excess Express until they made it to the passenger car that had their cabin room.
After they passed by their room, they stopped in front of the door that led to Cabin #004.
"This must be the place," Andrew grabbed the door knob. "Let's head on in."
They then went into the cabin and saw the setup. It looked kinda like Andrew's room, only the setup was inverted, minus the window, of course. But that's not what was off about it. There was no one in the room. Where could the person who's residing in this room be? And why couldn't they see this person?
"Omigosh! There's no one here! This is a mystery that we gotta look into," Goombella yelped. "Whatcha think we should do now, Andrew?"
"I don't know," Andrew rubbed his chin. "Either the person residing here is hiding someplace where we can't find 'em, or there's something else that I might be missing..."
"Why, I believe this must be a travesty that we've fallen into, old boy," Bobbery had to comment. "Truly a pickle that we're stuck in, if I do say so myself."
"So what now, Presto?" Yoshiam had to ask. "How are we gonna find this blanket the Conductor is looking for when we don't have any leads of whoever this person might be?"
"Hmmmm... huh? Wait. Sniff sniff. What's this I'm smelling?" Ms. Mowz used her nose to sense whatever was in the room. "Could it be that there is possibly someone in this room who doesn't want us to see him or her?"
"Hmph! Why, whatever does that mean, you mysterious brazen of a woman?" Flurrie didn't like how vague Ms. Mowz was being. "That doesn't make the least sense from what I know."
"Hold on," Andrew held his hands up. "So you're telling me that the person may not be a person? That perhaps it's something...supernatural?"
"It's possible, my sweet," Ms. Mowz shrugged.
"Gosh... You mean it might be..." Koops gulped before finishing. "A g-ghost?"
"Hmmm, I wouldn't rule that one out," Andrew rubbed his chin. "After all, we've dealt with some rather crazy stuff so far on this adventure."
"Well Andrew, what do we do?" Goombella asked him. "How do we find a ghost that does not want us to see him or her?"
"If I'm correct, the ghost does not want us to find him," Andrew proclaimed. "But if we are hidden from plain sight, then maybe the ghost might reveal itself for us to see."
"Omigosh! You...You mean...?" Goombella gasped as she was unable to finish her question.
"That's right," Andrew knew what had to be done. "I want all of you except for Vivian to grab a hold of me!"
Goombella, Koops, Flurrie, Yoshiam, and Bobbery knew what this meant as they did so like they did before. Ms. Mowz was able to pick up on it too as she decided to grab a hold of Andrew, just like the others.
"OK, Vivian," Andrew turned towards his Shadow Siren friend. "I'd like you to drag me and the others into the shadows to hide, so the ghost can expose itself."
"All right, Andrew," Vivian nodded as she went ahead and used her Veil move to drag Andrew and the others into the shadows to hide.
Several moments later, something did pop out of nowhere. It 'really' was a ghost. Once Andrew took notice of something above them, he asked Vivian to bring them back up to the surface, which she did. Everyone let go of Andrew as a result.
Andrew got to get a good look at the ghost, which was a male Toad. His mushroom cap was black just like the Conductor's, only there were yellow spots instead of red.
He was wearing a black torn-up vest shirt, and his lower spectral half was completely white, to showcase that he was a ghost. And his eyes were an ominous-looking yellow.
The ghost, known as Ghost T, had noticed that the eight of them had spotted him and he let out a loud yelp in response.
"Well guys, this must be the one," Andrew informed them. "Just as I thought."
"...So you've found me," Ghost T decided to comment.
"That's right," Andrew nodded. "And you happen to be the ghost who resides in this room, correct?"
"Yes. Well, as you see, I'm a ghost," Ghost T explained to him. "I'm cursed to haunt this place."
"That figures," Andrew rolled his eyes before asking him. "Tell me, do you happen to have a blanket in here that the Conductor left in this room?"
"Well, yes, the conductor did leave one here," Ghost T confirmed it to be true. "He didn't realize that I'm a ghost."
"Yeah," Andrew tugged on his handkerchief. "And let me ask you another question. Were you the one who wrote that yummy sticky threat that my friends and I found in our room next to this one, on the left?"
"No, I left no such thing," Ghost T had to shake his ghostly head. "I can't even hold physical objects like pen and paper."
Andrew had to pinch the bridge of his nose to forget that. It figured that this mysterious ghost couldn't have written any threats, even if he had wanted to. That meant that the ghost wasn't the culprit that they were looking for.
"All right, then," Andrew sighed. "In that case, we just want the blanket then."
"Well, I'll tell you where it is if you do something for me," Ghost T decided to make a request. "What do you say?"
"Pssst... Hey, Andrew?" Goombella nudged Andrew's right leg. "D'you think that we should trust this guy? He's pretty lighthearted for a ghost... But still... A ghost is a ghost!"
"I don't think we have a choice. We need that blanket back," Andrew informed her before looking back at Ghost T. "Now uhhhh, what's your name?"
"Ghost T. My name is Ghost T," Ghost T introduced himself.
"OK, Ghost T. That depends," Andrew then asked him cautiously. "What do you need from us?"
"All I need is..." Ghost T then took a deep breath and shrieked spookily. "YOOOOOUR LIIIFE!"
"E-Eek!" This got Koops to jump in fright as his face went pale before asking. "O-Our life...?"
"Please tell me that you're joking right now," Andrew had to ask while raising an eyebrow.
"...No, just kidding..." Ghost T insisted, getting all eight of them to sigh in relief. "Actually... I passed away in this cabin many years ago..."
"Is that so?" Andrew seemed curious.
"Yes," Ghost T nodded before continuing. "But I think my luggage is still in the baggage car here..."
"Dearie me," Flurrie had to ask cautiously. "Whatever may be in the luggage that you seek?"
"Inside my bag is a diary I kept since my earliest childhood days..." Ghost T exclaimed. "And my fear that someone would find it and read it has kept me tied to this world!"
"So the diary must have some supernatural powers then, huh?" Andrew figured it out.
"Yes. We can go with that," Ghost T requested. "Anyway, I can't leave this room, so can you please find it and bring it here? If you do that, I'll show you where the blanket is."
"A diary in the luggage car, huh? Sounds easy to find," Yoshiam declared. "We better go get it, Presto."
"Yeah. We can do that," Andrew nodded.
"I must say, don't you suppose the Conductor will believe us when we tell the poor chap that a ghost is the one who has the blanket and is staying in this room, eh?" Bobbery queried.
"I hope so," Andrew sighed. "Otherwise, it'll be a long night for everyone."
After saying that, Andrew motioned the seven of them to follow, as they were about to leave the room. However, before they could do so, Ghost T had to deliver them a rather grim warning.
"And don't you even DARE read my diary!" Ghost T howled frighteningly. "Because if you do..."
At that moment, Ghost T let out a dark chuckle before saying in an ominous tone. "Hoo hoo hoo hoo hoooooo... A horrible fate awaits you."
"Ummm... Gulp..." Koops was shivering at this. "Andrew? Guess we better not read it if we value our life. You know what I mean?"
"Yeah. Not to worry, though," Andrew assured him. "I wouldn't plan on reading it even if that wasn't the case. It's none of our business, so we have no place in reading it anyway."
"I'm 'totally' with you on that," Goombella beamed. "Now, let's go to the conductor and give him the scoop on what we found out."
"Got it," Andrew opened the door and walked out of Ghost T's cabin room.
Goombella, Koops, Flurrie, Yoshiam, Vivian, Bobbery, and Ms. Mowz followed right behind them as they went all the way to the left end of the train where the Conductor was currently.
When they got back to him, the Conductor looked curious and thrilled to see them come back. While he was curious by the expressions on their faces, he was more curious about if they found anything in that empty room.
"Hello, Mr. Andrew," the Conductor then asked. "Did you find it?"
"Yes. We sure did," Andrew came out with it. "Turns out that there's a ghost residing in cabin #004 that none of us even knew about, and he's the one that has the blanket."
"WHAAAAAT?!" The Conductor yelled in fear as he jumped before shivering. "EEEEEEEEEEEEEK!"
"That's right," Andrew then added. "And he won't hand over the blanket unless we get his diary from the baggage car."
"I see..." The Conductor shivered some more before saying. "Well, go on in. You don't say no to ghosts!"
The Conductor hastily moved to the side to allow the eight of them to go into the luggage car to get the Rugged Diary that they were looking for.
"Whoa! That was way too easy!" Yoshiam blinked before cheering. "Let's go get the diary for that ghost dude, Presto."
"Right," Andrew then entered the luggage car along with his group.
"Hey, Andrew? Do you think the Conductor's gonna be all right?" Vivian had to ask him in concern. "He seems pretty scared by the fact that a ghost was in that room this whole time..."
"I'm sure that he'll be find, Vivian," Andrew assured her. "Especially after we get him the blanket back for him."
"I hope so," Vivian sighed as they saw the luggage car for themselves.
There was nothing but luggage, crates, and other cargo in the room. There was also a bar above the ceiling that one could use to get to the door that leads to the outside area of the train.
"Well, this is the luggage car," Andrew mused. "Plenty of luggage in here."
"I would think so, seeing that this is the luggage car," Goombella nodded before adding. "Usually, passengers aren't allowed back here. Looks like there are lots of bags here, ready to be unloaded at the next stop."
"There's no doubt about that," Andrew then looked around. "Now, where's the diary that Ghost T is looking for?"
"Hey, dearie," Ms. Mowz got his attention. "I can see something on the other side of those two crates."
"Wow! You're right," Andrew saw the narrow gap that they'd have to slip through. "And it looks like we're gonna have to slip through that crack to get it."
"My, my, my! What a wonderful idea, Andrew," Flurrie smiled. "I do believe I know what we must do now."
"Uh huh," Andrew then started thinking as if he was a flat piece of cardboard. "Time to go into Paper Mode."
In a matter of seconds, Andrew became paper-thin along with the seven people who were accompanying him, which included Ms. Mowz. They managed to slip through the crack in between the crates before they got to the other side. Once they were there, they returned to normal, with Ms. Mowz seeming somewhat amused by this.
"Oh. Hmm mmm mmm..." Ms. Mowz mused. "I must say, dear, you must have had quite the adventure under your belt for being able to pull something like that off."
"Yeah. I have been placed a curse by four black chests," Andrew explained. "Only they seem more like special abilities. Aside from going into Paper Mode, I can also transform into a Paper Airplane and Paper Boat when standing on the right panels. And I can make us go into Tube Mode were we all turn into Paper Tube to squeeze underneath gaps."
"Yes. That does sound quite amusing," Ms. Mowz exclaimed. "Perhaps they should continue to be of good use for the rest of your journey."
"No kidding," Andrew didn't argue. "They've helped me out so far. And I can assume that they'll continue to assist me in solving puzzles."
"Hey, Presto! Look!" Yoshiam got his attention as he pointed towards a book. "There's a book here! I bet that's the Diary that Ghost T wants us to deliver to him!"
"Yeah. I'm pretty sure it is," Andrew walked over and picked up the Rugged Diary. "Wow. It's covered in dust. Sure seems like it hasn't been used for ages."
"No kidding," Goombella cringed at this as Andrew wiped off the dust.
"Yeah. This is his diary after all," Andrew was convinced. "Well guys, we better not read through it."
"Good idea," Koops nodded hastily before gulping. "Gosh... I can't imagine us suffering from a horrible fate from a ghost. Gee whiz, that doesn't sound good..."
"Absolutely! That would be unfortunate for us," Flurrie proclaimed. "Well anyhow, now that we have the diary, perhaps it would be wise if we take our leave from this place, right dearie?"
"Yeah. I'm all for that," Andrew nodded. "Let's get out of here."
After going into Paper Mode again, the eight of them slipped through the crack that was in between the two crates before making it back to where they were. Once they got through it, they returned to normal and then they headed for the door. Without giving the room another look, they left the luggage car and went back into the passenger's car where the Conductor was still residing.
"Oh hey, Mr. Andrew," the Conductor greeted him. "Did you find the diary?"
"That's right," Andrew nodded before showing him the diary. "It's right here."
"Wonderful! I knew you would!" The Conductor was relieved to hear that. "Now, I cannot leave my post. Please return the diary while I stay here!"
"We'll be sure to do that," Andrew nodded. "We shall return with the blanket that you are looking for."
"Great!" The Conductor then had a curious look on his face. "Though I WOULD like to see what's written in it..."
"Look, let's just say that it's for the best that NOBODY reads what is written in it," Andrew advised him. "It's a diary, and we have no right to look through it. And besides, the ghost will unleash a horrible fate if we do that."
"I-I see... Goodness me..." The Conductor took a deep breath and gulped. "Just return it to the ghost immediately. Then once you grab the blanket, get it back to me."
"That would be quite the acceptable solution to this predicament," Bobbery nodded. "Now then, Andrew, perhaps now would be as good of a time as any if we were to go back to that ghastly-looking fellow and return the diary to him, as he had requested from us, eh?"
"I agree," Andrew then motioned them to follow him. "Let's get going."
All seven of them nodded as they followed right behind Andrew as they headed back for cabin #004 where Ghost T was residing and waiting for them to return with the Rugged Diary in its full and unopened form...
After a bit more traveling, the eight of them made it back to the cabin that the ghost was waiting in. Ghost T looked curiously at them and wondered if they had what he had wanted them to retrieve from the luggage car.
"Well, we're back," Andrew exclaimed as he entered along with his crew.
"Yessss," Ghost T then had to ask him. "Did you find my diary?"
"'As a matter of fact', we did," Andrew then took out the Rugged Diary and handed it over to him. "Here you go. This is what you're looking for, right?"
"Yes, this is my diary," Ghost T nodded as he took out the blanket that the Conductor was looking for and showed it to Andrew. "Very well, your blanket is right here."
"Great," Andrew then claimed the blanket from him. "Thank you very much for this."
"Mhmmm," Ghost T nodded before he exclaimed. "You were very wise not to read my diary, friend..."
He then chuckled in a haunting manner before revealing. "Hoo hoo hoo hoo hoooooooo... If you had read it, you might be a spirit like me right now."
"Gosh..." Koops sighed. "Sure was a smart thing that we didn't read it. I couldn't think of myself as a dead Koopa. Ummm... Not with everything I look forward to..."
"I agree," Andrew nodded. "I couldn't possibly imagine any of us to become as dead as a doorknob, to the point where we're all ghostly spirits."
"No kidding," Goombella nodded while shivering. "Jeepers, just the thought of being a dead Goomba spirit gives me the heebie-jeebies."
"Yes," Ghost T then declared. "But now I can go peacefully on from this world... Thank you so much."
"Well, it was our pleasure. Really," Andrew smiled sheepishly.
"And lastly, you will probably never meet me again in this world..." Ghost T then decided to announce his departure. "Fare thee well."
At that moment, a ray of light emerged from up above, which signaled the sign that it was Ghost T's time to depart from the world, where he could finally rest in peace and head straight for the heavens. Ghost T was seen ascending upward where the ray of light was shining.
Unfortunately, before he could depart, the light disappeared as he came crashing back down. Turns out he wasn't as ready to depart as he had thought. He's been on the Excess Express for so long that he's grown quite accustomed to his cabin.
And he has grown used to all of the sights that he could pop up and visit any time he pleases. Surely, it wouldn't hurt for him to stick around for a little while longer, right?
"...Well, actually, maybe not," Ghost T proclaimed. "I've been here so long, I've gotten kind of used to it... The wallpaper's so great. Maybe I'll stay here just a little while longer."
"I see," Andrew blinked before shaking his head. "Well, the choice is entirely up to you, anyway. I guess."
"Yes. I can leave, whenever, so... That's all there is to it," Ghost T then let out one last ghostly chuckle. "Hoo hoo hoo hoo hoooooooo..."
"Right," Andrew tugged on his handkerchief. "We better be going. I guess we'll be seeing you. Come on, guys. Let's drop the blanket off to the Conductor."
All seven of them nodded as they followed Andrew out of the room, where they left the ghost to stay in his cabin room all alone again.
Andrew and his group made their way back to the left end of the train, where the Conductor was waiting for them to give him that blanket that he wanted.
"Whew," Andrew wiped his forehead. "I sure hope that this is the last time we have to come down here for the night. Until tomorrow morning, that is."
"You aren't alone there, Andrew," Goombella moaned. "We all could use a good night's rest after all the work we've done today."
"There's no doubt about that," Andrew commented as he then faced the Conductor. "Well, we're back again."
"So, Mr. Andrew, how did it go?" The Conductor asked him.
"Well, we were successful with getting the blanket back," Andrew then took out the blanket and handed it over to him. "Here's the blanket that you were looking for."
"Oh, thank you so much!" The Conductor was so ecstatic by this that he was beaming. "Now I'll be comfortable tonight!"
"That's good, right?" Andrew wondered.
"Yeah," the Conductor then frowned again. "Of course, our yummy and sticky mischief-maker is still at large..."
"Yes," Andrew then frowned at that. "We still don't know who could be responsible for it..."
"Golly, I don't know. It could be anyone that may've written it," Koops remarked. "Sure hope we can catch him soon..."
"Same here," Andrew sighed.
"Oh, hey, before I forget..." The Conductor decided to give Andrew a little gift. "This is just a gesture of my thanks."
"What is it?" Andrew queried as the Conductor got something out.
It was a regular Mushroom. The Conductor placed it into Andrew's hands, as he graciously accepted it.
"All right," Andrew smiled. "Thanks for this, Mr. Conductor."
"You're quite welcome," the Conductor then moved on. "Anyway, it's getting late, Mr. Andrew. Perhaps you should just turn in for the night?"
"Good idea," Andrew nodded. "We could all use the rest, right guys?"
Goombella, Koops, Flurrie, Yoshiam, Vivian, Bobbery, and Ms. Mowz all nodded collectively, as they were just as exhausted as Andrew was.
"If anything happens, I'll report it to you immediately," the Conductor promised before declaring. "Do not worry about a thing. For I am the conductor of the Excess Express!"
"OK. We're counting on you, sir," Andrew then turned around and motioned to his group. "Let's go back to my room, guys?"
They all obliged as they followed Andrew back to their room at Cabin #005. As they walked passed the dining car, they saw that the store had been closed up for the night, and it wouldn't be opened until tomorrow. Perhaps Andrew should visit there and see what they're selling when tomorrow comes.
It took no time at all for the eight of them to make it to the passenger's car where their room was. Once they were in front of the door that led to room #005, Andrew opened the door and made his way into the room, with his group following right behind him.
As soon as the eight of them went into the room, Andrew threw his backpack to the side of the couch, took off his shoes, and started stretching.
"Well guys, you know what this means," Andrew yawned. "We better just turn in for the night."
"Yeah," Goombella agreed tiredly. "Let's let's leave everything else to the conductor and get some shut-eye, OK, Andrew?"
"Uh huh," Koops nodded, feeling that he was dozing off. "Let's leave the train in the conductor's hands and get some sleep."
"I suppose we should leave everything else to the conductor and turn in," Flurrie yawned and stretched her arms out. "I must say, I'm quite tuckered out from what we dealt with today, dearie."
"Yeah," Yoshiam wiped his eyes. "The conductor can handle the train, so let's grab a few winks, huh?"
"Mhmm," Vivian nodded. "Sounds like we should get some rest and let the conductor watch over things."
"Well, old boy, let's leave everything to the conductor and have a snooze, eh?" Bobbery suggested in exhaustion.
"Yes," Ms. Mowz agreed. "The conductor can handle any problems. If he thinks it's a good idea for you to take responsibility for me, then we can trust him with this."
"Right," Andrew then had to ask. "So uhhhh, does anyone know who should sleep where?"
"Jeepers. I haven't given it much thought," Goombella blinked. "Guess it might've been better if we had planned this ahead of time."
"Ummm... Shouldn't we sleep together like we usually do," Koops wondered. "We've done it before. Besides, there is a horrible threat out there. I can't imagine anything happening if we stay together."
"That's true," Andrew rubbed his chin before he shrugged. "Well, if it helps make a decision easier, I'll just sleep on the bottom bunk."
"OK," Goombella sighed as Andrew climbed into the bottom bunk and got comfortable. "That sorta helps, I guess."
"All right! I can call the top bunk if that's all right!" Yoshiam proclaimed as he went up the ladder.
"Ummm... Well, I guess I could use the top bunk too," Koops shrugged. "Golly, I never slept in a bunk bed before..."
"Neither have I," Andrew said as Yoshaim raced up the ladder and got onto the top bunk. "But I guess there's a first time for anything, right?"
"Uh, right. First time for anything," Koops nodded as he then went and climbed up the ladder to join Yoshiam in sleeping on the top bunk.
"Ahem! A thousand pardons, dear boy," Bobbery got his attention. "But I would see to it that I should claim the top bunk as well, eh? It ain't anything like the bunks that I slept in during my Navy days. Nor is it like the hammocks I snoozed off in while out at sea. But I believe it shall do me some good, if I may do so."
"Go ahead, Bobbery," Andrew encouraged as he watched Bobbery go up the ladder to join Koops and Yoshiam in the top bunk. "What about the rest of you? What are your sleeping arrangements gonna be?"
"Well! I do believe that I shall be joining my darling Andrew in the bottom bunk," Flurrie declared as she floated over and joined Andrew in the bottom bunk. "After all, I must say that I shall make it my effort to keep my handsome muscular man safe. And I daresay, we must cuddle too, right Mr. Hunky Muscles?"
"Oh s-sure, Flurrie," Andrew said with a blush as she hugged him on the left side of his body, smooching his cheek gently without leaving any kiss marks. "I'd love to have you sleep with me. To tell you the truth, I do feel safer with you sleeping with me."
"I am most certainly glad to hear you say that, hon," Flurrie winked at him. "Because I intend on keeping my word."
"Right, "Andrew smiled. "What about you Goombella? Where are you gonna sleep?"
"Wowsers, well, if ya must know," Goombella sighed. "I'm gonna sleep with the others in the top bunk. If I need you for anything though, I'm 'totally' gonna climb onto the bottom bunk. OK, Andrew?"
"Sure, Goombella," Andrew smiled. "That works for me. If anything is bothering you, you can come wake me up for comfort."
"Gee. Thanks, Andrew. I can always count on you," Goombella retorted playfully. "Seriously, though. I 'totally' appreciate it."
"Glad to hear it," Andrew remarked as he watched Goombella climb up the ladder to join Koops, Yoshiam, and Bobbery in the top bunk.
"Hey uhhhh, Andrew?" Vivian got his attention while twirling her fingers.
"Yes? What is it, Vivian?" Andrew asked her softly.
"Uh, I was wondering, would it be all right with you if I could," Vivian gulped before coming out with it. "If I could sleep with you and Flurrie in the bottom bunk?"
"Of 'course' you can Vivian," Andrew told her warmly. "I think it's a great idea since I want to keep you safe."
"Yeah," Vivian nodded with a slight blush before getting into the bottom bunk. "And I'd like to keep you safe too."
"Good idea," Andrew smiled as Vivian got comfy and snuggled up to Andrew's right side since Flurrie was occupying his left. "We'll look out for each other."
"Yes," Vivian nodded with a smile. "That's what I meant."
"Great," Andrew nodded before seeing Ms. Mowz staring out the window. "Hey, Ms. Mowz? What are you doing?"
"Oh, me?" Ms. Mowz turned to face him. "Hmm mmm mmm, I'm just looking outside, gazing at the starry night sky. That is all."
"But don't you want to go to sleep with me and the others," Andrew suggested. "I know that I am responsible for you while we're on the Excess Express. But I am still willing to let you take a load off and get some sleep like the rest of us."
"Well, that's very kind of you, sweetie," Ms. Mowz insisted. "But I should be fine. I don't need to sleep just yet."
"But wouldn't you feel safer if you were to spend time with the rest of us before you go to sleep?" Andrew suggested sincerely. "I know that you've had experience with this in the past. But I honestly would like to know that nothing will happen to you. Especially since I'm being held responsible for you. But more importantly, I want you to stay safe with the rest of us. Do you understand?"
Ms. Mowz then had a thoughtful look on her face as she pondered about this for a moment. Truth be told, she wouldn't be too happy if something terrible were to happen to Andrew.
And because it's been a long time since they crossed paths, and he had averted the possibility that she could've been thrown off the train when they got to the Riverside Station, the Little Mouser felt that she should be in debt to Andrew's courtesy and his hardworking demeanor and personality.
Plus, she's been meaning to get to know him better. But of course, collecting badges and being in charge of a shop that Andrew hadn't heard of just yet was what kept her from doing so.
Now that they were on the Excess Express together, perhaps now was as great of a time as any for her to get comfortable with Andrew. Surely it wouldn't hurt her to just sleep soundly with Andrew and his other friends, right?
After thinking it over, Ms. Mowz turned away from the window and walked towards the bottom bunk. "Well, in that case, hon, I guess it couldn't hurt to spend the night in the bottom bunk. You've convinced me, my handsome muscular superstar."
"Well, I'm glad to hear that," Andrew said as Ms. Mowz got onto the bottom bunk and got herself comfortable. "Remember, for the duration of the train ride, we're in this together."
"Hmm mmm mmm, I couldn't agree more, my sweet," Ms. Mowz smirked. "And for that, I'll be sure to sleep with one eye open, in case anyone tries to assassinate you with a sticky yummy death."
"I appreciate that," Andrew smiled. "Thanks, Ms. Mowz."
"Anytime, Andrew," Ms. Mowz remarked calmly. "I'll let you know if anything happens."
"Right," Andrew yawned and stretched before getting comfortable with Flurrie and Vivian on both sides of him. "Well, goodnight guys."
"Goodnight, Andrew," Goombella, Koops, Flurrie, Vivian, Bobbery, and Ms. Mowz all said simultaneously.
"Goodnight, Presto," Yoshiam said at the same time as the others saying goodnight to him that used his real name.
And so, Andrew closed his eyes and went into a nice relaxing slumber for the night. The others were quick to follow as they were also enjoying some sleep. Goombella had taken off her helmet and set it to the side before she got comfy.
Koops made sure that he was comfy on the mattress before retreating into his shell while sleeping for the night, with a blanket covering parts of his shell. Flurrie had her eyes closed and was just yearning to have Andrew be her cuddle pillow, murmured the desire to kiss him and have fun with him again.
Yoshiam simply went to sleep, curled up in the corner of the top bunk before he made sure that he had parts of the blanket covering him. Vivian was snoozing with her witch hat covering most of her face while she was sleeping close to Andrew in an attempt to keep him safe from harm.
Bobbery, meanwhile, was treating the top bunk as if he was sleeping in a hammock as he did on the ships that he steered across the ocean while out at sea. He looked comfortable too, judging by how he was snoozing peacefully.
And then there was Ms. Mowz, who was indeed, sleeping with one eye open as she was in a position similar to how a ninja sleeps. She would react on alert the moment something fishy happens, to ensure that nothing bad will happen to Andrew or his other friends.
Needless to say, the eight of them were perfectly content with sleeping in the manner that they were sleeping in. They had remained like that for several hours or so.
At some point during the night, Andrew was attempting to sleep, but he kept thinking about the things that had transpired today, that it was kinda tough. Fortunately for him, it came to an abrupt halt when he felt someone shake him up.
It was Flurrie. 'Apparently', she had noticed that Andrew wasn't sleeping as she had thought. And as his companion and his friend with benefits, she was going to make him feel more relaxed about this.
"Hmmm?" Andrew murmured. "Flurrie? What are you...?"
"Shh shh shh," Flurrie shushed him softly before saying in a soft but seductive tone. "I know what you're feeling, darling. And all the stress that's going through your head right now. So I intend on making you feel relaxed with a little...love sharing between us, if you know I mean, hon."
"Yeah," Andrew said with a blush as he was all for it. "I'd love to have that kind of fun with you, Flurrie."
"Then pucker those lips, dearie," Flurrie winked before puckering her lips. "Because between you and me, the fun's just getting started, Mr. Hunky Muscles."
"Oh yeah," Andrew whispered with a deep manly voice as he grabbed her. "I'm feeling the same way, darlin'."
"Oh, my," Flurrie gasped quietly. "Make it good, sweetums. Make it good..."
And so Andrew and Flurrie allowed their lips to touch, as Flurrie felt the fuzzy mustache Andrew was growing and allowed it to tickle her upper lip.
Andrew's legs were stretched out to the point where Flurrie's lower body was locked right where his crotch was. And Flurrie was 'absolutely' delighted about this, judging by her quiet but excited yelps that she let out into Andrew's mouth.
"Mmmm," Flurrie uttered through Andrew's mouth. "I've been meaning to do this with you for a long time, darling. And I'm loving every moment of it. I shan't regret doing this with you."
"Mmmm," Andrew muttered through Flurrie's mouth. "Me neither. I love doing this with you."
"The feeling is 'absolutely' mutual, Mr. Hunky Muscles," Flurrie uttered seductively into Andrew's mouth.
They spend a good duration of time doing this together while being on top of each other. Unlike the time they had fun at Flurrie's House, they did it silently while remaining clothed, so the others weren't woken up by their little game of hanky panky.
Andrew could've sworn that he felt something bulge between his legs. But that was OK. It just showed how much of a man he is.
Eventually, the two of them would end up falling asleep in each other's arms and each other's mouths. Needless to say, this was going to be one wild but exciting night for Andrew until he fell asleep with Flurrie.
Tomorrow would come, and they would surely find out the identity of who wrote the sticky yummy threat together, all eight of them. That was a given...
END OF CHAPTER 58...
All right. That's it for this chapter, everyone. I do hope that you all enjoyed this chapter too.
Honestly, I had fun writing out the dinner segment of this chapter, where all eight of them had what they wanted based on what their personalities were like. I've been wanting to do that for a long time, and I finally was able to make use of the situation of being on the Excess Express to do so.
Yeah. Having Bobbery be in the Navy during his service days was obvious, considering that he has a strong love for the sea and the fact that he's an Admiral, a rank that exists in the Navy. So I decided to incorporate that into this story.
Also, I liked how I went into depth with Vivian's past and how she was never able to eat real meals. I could see Beldam treating Vivian in such a manner, by only giving her one Dried Shroom to eat for a meal, which was only once a week, while she and Marilyn get to eat all of the good stuff. This also helps give Vivian some character growth with Andrew's support, since she'll eventually be able to stand up to her sister Beldam once and for all. I look forward to writing that out.
As for Ms. Mowz, she 'really' is a mysterious character, based on what was shown in the game. And this story shows her as being just as mysterious. Some hidden depth to her character will be explored in a couple of chapters when she has officially joined Andrew's team as they explore the Riverside Station. I promise you all that.
Lastly, the ending with Andrew and Flurrie I thought would be nice, since it shows just how close the two have gotten since they've hit it off as traveling companions upon saving the Great Tree. And they'll remain close to each other, just like how Andrew remains close to the rest of his team. It was a nice little callback to chapter 22 of this story.
Anyway, the next chapter will showcase the second day of being on the Excess Express. In that chapter, the briefcase of the Ratooey Business gets stolen upon going to Pennington's room, Andrew and his seven friends find a document in cabin #001 from the briefcase, and after preventing an altercation between Zip Toad and almost everyone else on the Excess Express (with a few exceptions), Andrew and his group decide to apprehend Zip Toad themselves.
Additionally, Zip Toad will reveal that he isn't Zip Toad, but a familiar foe that Andrew dealt with back in Chapter 4. Andrew returns the belongings to the Excess Express Waitress and Toodles, with Toodles letting Andrew know how fascinated she is by him and will get him 'really' excited.
Other stuff will include Andrew and the others finding out who Zip Toad 'really' was, reigniting fears that Andrew felt back in Chapter 4 into his mind, the group accepting the request of putting the bridge back down, and Ms. Mowz officially joining the crew after seeing all of the badges Andrew had found in the past, including the Attack FX B badge. And a few other things will occur. How will this go for them? Find out next time, readers!
For now, only if you like, you can leave a review and let me know what you thought of this chapter overall.
Otherwise, I have nothing else to say. So until next time, I do hope you look forward to the remainder of Chapter 6. And with that said, thank you once again for reading, everyone!