22 June 2018

Marina Stadium

Dear Diary,

Wow—it's been a long time since I've stepped onto a tennis court. But I'm far from rusty. I made sure to practice my basic and trick shots and to stay in shape. I've made sure to arrive early, so I can warm up and dispel those pregame jitters.

In this go-round, the singles portion of the tournament will come first, followed by the doubles portion. Mario's paired up with Peach, I've paired up with Daisy, Julian will pair up with Jackie, Jasmine will pair up with Jake, and Grace will pair up with Roland. Alec, Oliver and Agnes's son, will pair up with Gavin. Wario and Waluigi's absence means that we won't have any headaches.

Do I have another singles victory on the horizon? Yeah, I think so. My previous one was slightly soiled by Mario's—ahem—displeasure, and I'm determined to make up for it. On second thought, I frankly don't care if Mario gets upset again. If he can't handle a loss to his on brother, then that's his problem. I hope I'm pitted against him in the finals, just so I can deny him that first-place trophy a second time!

Okay—I need to calm down, and I need to focus. Fuming over something that happened nearly 14 years ago won't do anything. I have a big day ahead of me, and I need to approach it with a clear mind.

I'll let you know how things went tomorrow!

Luigi

23 June 2018

Temple of Bask

Dear Diary,

So—you're the one who's followed my new pal's exploits for over four decades? He must be one good storyteller if he's held your attention for so long! However, storytelling will have to wait. Allow me to explain—

You mustn't worry—our mutual friend is in good hands. He's currently undergoing a rigorous training regimen. And no, that's not a euphemism for "torture". He's actually training here, in this ancient tennis court, for the big tournament I organized. Just between you and me, I think he's gonna be my star player.

There are only a few things you need to know about me. First, I had to punish the ancient Kingdom of Bask due to their arrogance when it came to sporting events by razing it to its very foundation. Second, the aforementioned kingdom's last ruler trapped me in a room, took my power and distributed it among five gems. Centuries later, a pair of treasure hunters came upon my room, hoping to turn an easy profit, and got more than they bargained for when they awakened me. Now they, along with this diary's keeper, will represent me in a tennis tournament for the ages.

Your task, should you choose to accept it, is to provide a pulse-pounding, spine-tingling, minute-by-minute account of—the Lucien Cup. The stakes are the five gems containing my power. If my opponents win the tournament, then I'll give up my quest and return quietly to my prison. But if I win, then I'll claim the gems, unlock my full power and usher in a second Age of Bask.

All right—storytime's over. I'd better check on my three tennis players and see how their training is going.

Catch you at the tournament.

Lucien

24 June 2018

MK

Dear Diary,

Okay, here we go—

The first half of the tournament proceeded normally. Competition began at 9a.m. sharp with Mario facing Julian. Next, Peach was pitted against Kate, Daisy was pitted against Jasmine, a Koopa Troopa was pitted against Jackie, and so on. Shortly before noon, I squared off against Grace, winning after a spirited rally. My opponent beamed as she shook my hand, and then I joined her in cheering on Gavin as he faced B.J.

Mario, Gavin, Roland, Peach, Daisy, Jules, Jackie, Jas, Jake, Ed and I were among those who advanced to the next round, which commenced after an hour-long break. In this round, Jake was my opponent. He performed well, but I managed to best him after a sweaty contest, advancing to the quarterfinals. Mario, Daisy, Jackie, Jules, Roland, Jas and Gavin also advanced.

I hoped to face Mario, but I wound up facing Daisy, while Mario faced Gavin and wound up eliminated. Jules and Jackie were pitted against each other, and Jas faced Roland. After I defeated Daisy, Gavin, Jackie and Roland joined me in advancing to the semifinals. I would take on Jackie, while Gavin would face Roland.

And then there were two—Roland and me.

Fate works in mysterious ways, did you know?

I let Roland know that I meant business by stripping off my shirt at the very beginning. The ensuing match was more gratifying than the rematch against Mario I'd anticipated. There was no posturing or trash-talking. It was just the two of us volleying the tennis ball back and forth as the spectators and eliminated players watched suspensefully. Mario cheered for me, while Grace and Gavin cheered for both of us. While the Rabbids adventure had led to a sturdy peace between us, there was some leftover stuff I needed to let out. This final contest was a best of five sets—and I eked out a win of 3-2.

Roland handled the loss better than Mario, by the way. Even on his worst days, I don't see him stepping on my foot over it.

After my awards ceremony, it was time for the doubles portion of the tournament. And that was where things got weird.

Let's skip ahead to the championship round, where Mario and Peach faced down Koopa and B.J. It was a squeaker of a contest, but my bro was able to clinch the win for him and Peach with a decisive trick shot. I was among the first to storm the court in celebration, and Mario grabbed me for a group hug with Peach.

But during the awards ceremony, we got some unexpected visitors—Wario and Waluigi!

The pair wore their athletic getup, and they were wrapped in strange bandages as they ambled toward us like zombies. And in Waluigi's hands was a golden tennis racket—the strangest and most ornate tennis racket I'd ever seen!

"Hey, how's it going?" greeted Wario. "Look what we found in the Temple of Bask!"

"The—what?" Peach asked with a frown.

Waluigi held out the racket. "It's a completely ordinary, totally harmless tennis racket—that just so happens to look awesome!" he said.

"Er—yeah—I think you should leave that alone," said Daisy.

"I don't like the looks of that thing," added Jackie.

"It's giving off some pretty bad vibes," Jake joined in.

Spectators and players alike backed away from Wario and Waluigi.

But I didn't.

The gold racket shimmered in the sunlight, drawing me toward it like a siren's song. And then—it spoke to me like an intimate friend.

Hi, Luigi. You don't know me, but I know plenty about you. My name's Lucien, and we're gonna be best pals.

Lucien? Who names their rackets? I knew from the Fire Emblem characters that people name their swords—but rackets?

The racket—Lucien—continued to speak in a soft, disarming tone, like a trusted confidante.

You look like you're missing something. I can fix that. Join me, and I'll take you to places you've never been before.

I found myself drawn further in by Lucien's words, ignoring the warnings everyone else shouted at me.

I know about what happened in 2004. I know how awful your brother made you feel. I know how you're kept in his shadow, your potential squandered. I know what you crave. I know what you need. I know you better than anyone—and yet this is the first time we've met face-to-face.

As if in a trance, I stepped closer to Lucien, still in Waluigi's outstretched hands. I was partially aware of Mario, Daisy, Julian and others trying to stop me, to no avail.

I can help you, Luigi. And you can help me. We can be friends—best friends. Stick with me, and you'll be the best tennis player the universe has ever known.

And then a voice I'd hoped never to hear again chimed in. Yes. Make Mr. Jumpsallthetime deal with crickets for once in his life.

Lucien had pushed the right buttons, and I was now firmly under his thrall.

I finally reached Waluigi, who placed Lucien into my hands. As soon as my fingers closed around him, jolts of electricity coursed through my body, and I felt multiple film-like tendrils wrap around me. Dark purple clouds gathered over the stadium, thunder crashed, lightning flashed and the wind howled as I wailed in pain.

Whoops. I forgot to tell you that this would smart a little. Sorry about that.

The last thing I fully remembered was Mario shouting my name.

I only recall bits and pieces of what happened next. There was a tennis court located in some ruins, and some modern training equipment which looked out of place in such an ancient locale. I remember spending most of my time in those ruins, practicing. Lucien told me that I needed to train and practice, so I can be faster, stronger and better—better than Mario. He'd tapped into my deepest desires and played on my insecurities like his favorite musical instrument. He had me wrapped around his nonexistent little finger, and I'd do anything for him.

Lucien explained that he needed five gems to help me tap into my true potential, and that he'd sent Wario and Waluigi to obtain them. Then, I'd join them in competing in the Lucien Cup. If we won, then we'd be the undisputed tennis champions of the universe. If we lost, then—oh, well.

The undisputed tennis champion of the universe? Now, I was further under Lucien's spell.

I don't remember anything else until I found myself back at Marina Stadium, watching Peach and Daisy in an intense match-up with Wario and Waluigi. Peach wore a pink tennis dress with a knee-length skirt, while Daisy wore only an orange sports bra and short shorts. Even in athletic wear, Daisy was still so beautiful. The sight of her running circles around Wario and Waluigi—especially Waluigi—began to weaken Lucien's hold on me.

"If we win—then what's gonna happen to her?" I ventured to ask.

Ah—don't worry about it, Lucien casually replied. Just remember to stay focused. Your own match is about to begin.

"Who's my opponent?" I asked.

You'll see, Lucien answered with a sly chuckle.

While seated on the bench, psyching myself up, I saw Mario seated across from me, looking like he'd just come back from an epic adventure. His hair was mussed, his cheeks were flushed, and his skin and clothes were streaked with dirt. And—was that bruising I saw? Were those burn marks? What in the Inferno happened to him?

Next to Mario sat Grace and her family, Julian and his folks, Jake, Kate and Ed. All of them were similarly disheveled and dirtied. Now, I was really curious. I just had to learn the details!

Chillax, they're fine, Lucien assured me. Now, focus. Those five Power Gems are on the line.

"That's what they're called?"

Uh-huh. Kinda catchy, don't you think? If we win, then we get the Power Gems. If they win, then we'll have to give them the Power Gems. I'll never break my word for anyone, so make me proud, okay?

"Okay," I sighed, but now I'd started to doubt Lucien's friendliness.

Peach and Daisy eventually won the day, thanks to the former's Heart Shot. Wario and Waluigi fulminated as the two ladies hugged.

Hoo—boy. It's all right—it's okay, Lucien muttered under his breath. We can still salvage this. It's up to you, Luigi. Go out there, and kick some [bleep]!

I stood, rolled my shoulders and took my place on the court. Then, my opponent emerged to booming cheers from the crowd—

—Mario!

You've waited fourteen long years for this, said Lucien. It's time to make him pay for humiliating you in front of God and everyone.

Then, that other voice added, Oh, yeah—Mr. Jumpsallthetime is gonna be sorry. He's gonna be really, really sorry.

I would've fallen for that hook, line and sinker. But then Mario stood across from me, stripped to the waist, his gaze hard and determined—but not cruel. He'd never be cruel to me. Yes, he had a poor reaction to losing to me, but he apologized. And he hasn't acted that way since.

Seeing the look in his eyes, I resolved to fight back against Lucien's manipulations.

Mario also had a cool-looking racket—one encircled by fire. It more than matched the fire I saw in his eyes as we waited for the match to begin.

Mario served first, and we instantly had a rally going. I was aware of Lucien talking to me, but I ignored him. Everything he said to me was a bald-faced lie. He'd promised me fame and fortune, but I realized that I didn't need any of that. I had my bro, I had the Merricks and I had the Butters. I had Daisy, and I had Josh's memory. I wouldn't sell them out for anything.

Lucien was a piece of [bleep].

I had to give him credit, though—he did have standards. He didn't try to harm me when I was under his influence, and he wasn't encouraging me to cheat. However, he encouraged me to play aggressively and to take advantage of the "call challenge" system. He even tried to make me hit Mario with the tennis ball! That only motivated me to fight harder against Lucien.

As the match progressed, I could feel Lucien's control over me weakening. His voice was fading. I felt the bandages wrapped around my body loosening. My eyes were on Mario, his cheeks rosy with exertion as his sweat-washed form weaved about his side of the court, his eyes bright. And I gave myself a good talking-to for allowing Lucien to get inside my head.

Then, Josh's voice joined in, admonishing me, reminding me of my special bond with my bro and that an entire kingdom depended on us. I recalled that rainy October day in 1990, when Mario and I had that blow-out over something so trivial. I thought about the anecdote Julian told me about how he made up with one of his friends, about how his school counselor never got that chance. I remembered how Josh taught me how to play the grateful game, using the rare quarrels he had with Joan as an example. I remembered getting into my frog suit and swimming to Koopa's castle to rescue Mario from Ludwig's mind-control helmet, and how we hugged and exchanged mea culpas afterward.

And the day after Mario stepped on my foot, I was hot with anger. The Merricks, Grace, Daisy—they were angry, too, but ultimately, cooler heads prevailed. It was my turn to be the voice of reason, cooling my friends' and my Flower Princess's anger. The morning after that, Mario and I had breakfast in bed and buried the hatchet. Eventually, it was like that incident never took place.

I'm sorry, Josh. I'm sorry I broke my promise…

I'd worry about that later, however. Lucien was berating me, but I tuned him out, focusing on the good times I shared with my bro, my friends and my girlfriend. I didn't need to be "the undisputed tennis champion of the universe". I was already happy with what I had.

"I love you," Mario whispered to me as we changed court for the final set.

"I love you, too," I replied as Lucien threw a fit.

The arena had been cheering during our match, but our final set was played in heavy silence, save for our grunts and huffs and deep breaths. Mario and I locked eyes, my corrupted image reflected in his pupils. His mouth was rounded, his brow was lightly furrowed and his chest heaved. His upper body was covered in a thick layer of sweat, and his hair was stuck to his forehead and the back of his neck. His serves and lobs were precise and crisp and his fiery racket danced like a glowing pinwheel with each swing. He wasn't giving up on me—he'd never give up on me.

Watching him sweat it out for my sake helped me resist Lucien harder and harder, more of those bandages falling away. I glimpsed the Butters and the Merricks out of the corner of my eye, holding hands as they watched. Kate and Ed each clutched a set of rosary beads, heads bowed in prayer. They weren't just rooting for Mario; they were rooting for me, too. They were giving me the strength I needed to break free of Lucien for good.

So long, Lucien, I thought. It was fun while it lasted.

During the match point, Mario broke out his Blazing Wall Jump to pull off a dramatic, spectacular victory! Everyone in the arena sent up a thundering roar, giving Mario a standing ovation. The last of those bandages fell away, and I ran over to join my bro.

"Luigi!" Mario exclaimed as we shared a brotherly hug.

Joyfully, I lifted Mario and swung him round.

"Mario…" I breathed, my voice cracking.

"I know what you're about to say, so let me just stop you here," said Mario. "What happened isn't your fault. This—Lucien—was a manipulative slimeball. He was so slick that he probably would've gotten inside my head, too. But you fought back against him. You managed to see past his lies. You weakened him enough for me to land the coup de grace. We beat him together."

I smiled, deciding not to tell him how I heard his voice.

"What were you up to while I was gone?" I asked.

"Long story," said Mario. "I'll tell you about it tonight."

"Hey—am I late to the party?"

We all turned. Koopa stood there with a smirk on his face, inches away from a downed Lucien.

"Now's not a good time," snapped Peach. "We've all had a really trying day, so why don't you just [bleep] off?"

"Don't worry—I'm not here for you," said Koopa. "I'm here for him." As he spoke, he indicated Lucien.

"Are you out of your mind?" I balked. "He's dangerous!"

"Yeah! Not to mention a big, fat jerk!" Wario chimed in. "Waluigi and I would've sold that racket on eBay, but of course, we wound up with an evil, sentient tennis racket!"

"You're not helping," huffed Mario.

Koopa guffawed. "Why, he's not dangerous at all! He just wants to be my friend! How dangerous is that?"

"He's lying to you!" cautioned Mario. "He did the same thing with my Bro, and look where that got all of us!"

"You're not holding a racket—you're holding a time bomb!" added Julian.

"I eat time bombs for breakfast," boasted Koopa. "Now, if you'll excuse me, my new friend and I must prepare for the ultimate showdown! Mario—why don't you meet me at the Shrine of Bask? There, we'll decide for good and all who deserves to be named the true tennis champion! Don't leave me waiting too long!"

Laughing, Koopa snatched up Lucien and took off with him.

Mario swore quietly. "A hero's work is never done, is it?" he asked.

Suddenly, a mysterious voice spoke up. "Mario, if those two win, then they'll easily subjugate the entire universe! You have to stop them!"

"Who's that?" I asked.

"That's Aster. He's like the Kingdom of Bask's god," explained Mario. "My companions and I met him while trying to beat Lucien to the Power Gems."

"The power from those gems actually belongs to me," said Aster.

"With all due respect, there's only one God," I said, "and He certainly doesn't need any Power Gems."

"O—kay. Anyway, there's no time to waste, Mario! We're counting on you!"

"Oh, yeah!" Mario exclaimed. "Let's-a go!"

"Okeydokey!" I added.

"Actually, Bro," Mario sucked in a deep breath. "Lucien put you through one Inferno of an ordeal. I think you should rest awhile."

"And let you face those two alone?" I asked incredulously.

"He won't be alone," Oliver spoke up. "I'm coming with him."

"So am I," added Agnes.

"Don't forget me," Alec piped up.

"Or me," said Jules.

"Me, neither," said Peach. "In order to keep things fair, we can't participate. But we can at least cheer him on."

Mario hugged me again. "With them behind me, I'll be fine," he assured me. "Just rest, Bro. You've earned it."

Reluctantly, I agreed.

Now, it's eleven-thirty at night, and I still haven't heard from Mario or his companions. Daisy's sleeping next to me, and after I took a nap, the two of us got to have some fun before we ordered some Chinese food and watched a movie together. I managed to nod off again, but I only got in five hours of sleep before dreams about Mario falling to Koopa and Lucien jolted me awake. There was a voicemail from Peach, assuring me that they got to the shrine of Bask safely, but that was a while ago.

I've brewed myself some herbal tea, put on the 24-hour news channel and even soaked in a warm bath, but now that Mario's locked in a showdown with a Lucien-infused Koopa, I can't relax. Why did he go off by himself when he knew that I could help him? Two encounters with those Boos weren't enough for him to learn, were they?

Daisy's starting to stir, and I think she knows what I'm planning to do. Now, she's grabbing some fresh clothes and heading for the shower.

You know what? I'm going to join her.

And then I'm going to help my bro, whether he likes it or not.

Luigi

25 June 2018

MK

Dear Diary,

I'm glad I listened to my gut. If I hadn't, then this latest adventure would've ended in tears. Let me tell you all about it…

After Daisy and I showered together, we dressed in fresh tennis outfits. I wore a green polo shirt and white shorts with green accents, along with green and white tennis shoes and a green visor. Daisy decided to wear a red-orange tennis dress with a yellow-orange skirt. We shared a meal of pasta, garlic bread and cranberry juice, and by then, we both knew where I was headed. I grabbed my duffel bag, and inside it we placed two frozen bottles of my favorite sports drink, two boxes of energy bars, sunscreen, bug repellant, a first-aid kit, bath and shower supplies, a change of clothes, a battery-powered radio, extra batteries, two peanut-butter and jelly sandwiches and my tennis racket. Finally, I filled a jug with water, and the two of us headed out the door, hopped into my car, and drove toward the Shrine of Bask.

Daisy used her phone's GPS to guide me to our destination. Along the way, I had to use two rest stops to take a tension dump. However, Daisy's presence calmed my trepidation, and by the time I noticed an eerie green glow up ahead, my nerves were fully steeled.

This green glow was frequently interrupted with flashes of purple. Nearby, a group of people sat near a campfire, wrapped in blankets and encircled by tents. It was Peach and her party, having spent the night there to show Mario their support. They all turned as they heard me approach, and I gave them a quick wave.

I parked the car just outside of the Bask Ruins, near a few other vehicles. There was Peach's car, with the Merrick family car to its left and the Butter family car to its right. Oliver and Agnes's car was a short distance away. Two lanterns hanging overhead provided a substantial amount of light.

Grabbing my duffel bag, I leaped out of the car, followed by Daisy. Briskly, we walked toward Peach's group.

"I knew the MK wouldn't hold you," said Peach. "It's good to see you, Luigi."

"Same here," I said before getting right down to business. "He's in there?"

Peach nodded. "They've been at it for hours," she softly replied.

"That's why we set up camp," said Jules. "No way we're leaving him here by himself."

"We also brought some stuff he might need after he wins," added Agnes.

"I brought some goodies, too," I said, setting down my duffel bag and showing everyone my supplies.

Peach's group helped me and Daisy unpack most of the supplies. I decided to keep the water jug and a bottle of sports drink.

"I have a feeling he won't last much longer," said Peach. "He might need some help."

"Or else I wouldn't be here," I said.

I took off my shirt, neatly folded it and passed it to Daisy. After taking it, she leaned in and gave me a deep kiss on the mouth.

"Good luck," she said.

"Thanks," I replied. "All right. Here I go…"

I grabbed my racket, squared my shoulders and marched into the Temple of Bask, where I could faintly hear music playing from what seemed to be a first-rate sound system. As I ventured deeper, the music grew louder. My ears also caught the sounds of Mario's exerted grunts and harsh breathing, along with Koopa's laughter and roars, causing me to quicken my pace.

Then, I spotted Mario's duffel bag, his red polo shirt draped over it. The shirt was lightly tattered and covered in soot and scorch marks. Seeing that shirt hammered home the gravity of the situation, and I practically sprinted the rest of the way to the Shrine of Bask.

I arrived in the nick of time.

Mario was in pretty bad shape. His eyes were clouded over with exhaustion. He could barely lift his tennis racket. Sweat dripped off of him, and his skin was flushed. I could see mild burns on his torso and stomach, his hair was disheveled, and his visor was askew. Still, he stood his ground, glaring defiantly at his opponent.

Speaking of which, Koopa-merged-with-Lucien was more fearsome than regular Koopa. He looked as if he'd been wrapped in aluminum foil. His eyes glowed menacingly, and there was a metallic screech to his roars. An ominous purple swirl encased Lucien, and the two of them were protected by a purple force field.

I watched in horror as five bowling-ball sized purple energy spheres materialized, Koopa-Lucien launching one of them at Mario! As my bro wrenched his body erect and readied his racket, I was galvanized into action. With a battle cry, I dashed onto the makeshift tennis court and blocked the energy sphere before it could hit Mario.

"You!" bellowed Koopa-Lucien. "I should've known you'd try to help your beloved brother!"

"I'm not trying to help him," I said evenly. "I'm going to help him."

"Luigi…" I heard Mario whisper.

"Go ahead—tend to him," chuckled Koopa-Lucien, "but I'll be here when you come back."

"You bet I'll be back," I vowed before racing to Mario's side.

My timing couldn't have been luckier, for Mario had crumpled to his knees after my intervention. His racket slipped from his slackening grip and clattered to the ground, and he wrapped an arm around his abdomen as his eyes glazed over.

I knelt beside him, grabbing my water jug and offering it to him. Gratefully, Mario took it and gulped down half of its contents.

"Hey," he said finally, his voice a little raspy.

"Hey," I replied.

"You're here," said Mario.

"Why wouldn't I be?"

Mario smiled. "I hoped Daisy could keep you out of trouble," he said jokingly.

"She decided to come with me," I explained. "I tried, but I couldn't sit this out."

"I know."

"I know you know."

"I'm glad you're here, Bro," said Mario, pouring the rest of the water jug over his head. "I could use a doubles partner."

"Think of this as a tag-team," I said.

Mario lightly frowned. "Are you actually gonna…?"

I nodded. "I started this mess, and by God, I'm gonna end it," I vowed.

Mario seemed to know that my mind was made up. "You got this. I know you do," he said encouragingly.

Shakily, he got to his feet as I helped him up.

"The others are waiting outside, and there are some energy bars and sports drinks," I told him.

"Great," said Mario. "Give him Hell, Bro. I softened him up for you."

We gently touched foreheads, and then Mario gave Koopa-Lucien one last baleful look before he turned and headed for the exit, walking with a slight limp.

I wheeled back toward Koopa-Lucien, smacking my racket against my palm. My opponent turned off the heavy metal music that had been playing on the nearby stereo and gave me a smirk.

"I hope you've saved your energy, Green 'St—Luigi, because I can go on for days!" he gloated.

"So can I," I retorted.

I touched a finger to my racket, electricity beginning to writhe around it.

Koopa-Lucien chortled. "Good to know. But before we begin, my new bestie and I put together the perfect playlist for this occasion."

He went to the stereo and pressed a few buttons. Seconds later, the opening guitar riff of Metallica's "Master of Puppets" began pulsing throughout the tennis court.

I stood in a balanced stance, both hands holding my racket, feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, casting my Death Stare at my opponent and awaiting his next move.

"Enough talk," growled Koopa-Lucien as he took his place on the court. "Game on!"

A red-orange force-field encased him, and more energy spheres of the same color materialized.

And our "game" began.

I kept my breathing steady as those energy spheres barreled toward me one-by-one. With precise swings, I deflected all of them back at my opponent. In addition, there were small fireballs I could simply whack toward him, which could neutralize an energy sphere. With each energy sphere I deflected, the force field around Koopa-Lucien weakened. I reasoned that if I destroyed that force field, then I'd have a good shot at Lucien.

After I deflected or neutralized all of the energy spheres, the force field disappeared, leaving my opponent vulnerable. Koopa-Lucien then generated a single energy sphere which glowed white, which he served like a tennis ball. Following a quick rally, I saw my chance and whacked the sphere toward Lucien with all my strength, sending my opponent staggering.

I took a quick swig of my sports drink as Koopa-Lucien recovered. Then, I readied myself as he sent mini-tornadoes at me. I could easily dodge and flip over them, and I could also dodge the shock-waves when he tried to Ground-Pound me.

Ah, Luigi, said Lucien, it didn't have to end this way. I could've given you the universe.

I smiled tightly. "I don't need the universe," I shot back. "Thanks for asking."

So be it, said Lucien, and then the cycle began again.

This time, The Human League's "Don't You Want Me" provided the soundtrack to our face-off. Heat began settling onto my skin as I felt each droplet of cool sweat beginning to slide down my forehead, back, arms, neck, chest and upper body. I kept each pivot, leap and swing carefully controlled, timing my breaths with each motion. Several times, I felt hot wind whip past my torso. Maybe an energy sphere or a fireball grazed me. It didn't matter. My blood was pumping too much, and there was too much on the line for it to matter.

I shattered the force field a second time, and Koopa-Lucien and I volleyed another energy sphere back and forth as the song on the stereo began fading out. Seeing another opening, I leaped into the air and lobbed the energy sphere into Lucien.

You're really pushing my buttons, warned Lucien.

"I've got a knack for that," I said smartly, knocking back some more of my sports drink.

Not for long.

A bolt of lightning struck the ground, creating a small, fiery ring, as more mini-tornadoes came my way. I evaded them all, and I flipped and cartwheeled to safety during Koopa-Lucien's Ground Pounds.

The third cycle began to the opening strains of The Police's "Can't Stand Losing You". I wasn't stupid; I knew that these song choices were deliberate. Lucien was playing the role of a jilted partner to psych me out, but I wasn't about to let him. I kept my mind focused and my attention riveted on the projectiles constantly sent my way. I kept my energy and my emotions just below the surface. I paid no mind to the periodic flashes of heat across my skin. I treated this as any other tennis match. I was in control here, not Lucien.

Every muscle in my body worked in perfect symmetry. My breathing settled into a deliberate rhythm. My heart hummed and thrummed in my chest. I was thickly coated in perspiration by now, but I merely blinked the droplets out of my eyes and allowed the rivulets to trickle into my mouth. A little sweat never hurt anybody.

For a malevolent sentient racket, Lucien certainly had an excellent taste in music. Up next on his playlist were two other songs from The Police: "Wrapped Around Your Finger" and "Every Breath You Take". The subsequent tracks grew increasingly threatening, from Michelle Branch's "Everywhere" to Carrie Underwood's "Before He Cheats" and Thoushaltnot's "Inside of You, In Spite of You". By now, the subtlety was pretty much dispensed with.

The climax of our matchup was set to Taylor Swift's "Look What You Made Me Do", matching with Koopa-Lucien's increased aggression. It was the most overtly threatening track in the playlist despite its sugary-pop dance beat.

Now, the force-field flashed in multiple colors, and the number of energy spheres had more than doubled. Keeping my cool, I took on the projectiles one at a time, throwing greater force into my swings. At one point, something brushed across my lower abdomen, just below my belly button, but I ignored it. I was locked into this "game", and I knew this was the final stretch. Lucien was weakening, and Koopa was starting to get tired. So, I went on the offensive and pressed on. I gave it everything I had left, the energy I'd kept simmering now igniting.

Block. Block. Deflect. Deflect.

Again, blazing heat brushed across my upper body, my arm, my wrist. I kept a solid grip on my racket and kept going.

Deflect. Block. Deflect. Block.

With one decisive swing, I broke my opponent's force field.

Koopa-Lucien's eyes flashed blood-red as he generated a white-hot energy sphere and lobbed it at me. But I set my jaw and lobbed it back.

We had one last rally with that energy sphere. And then—it was time.

White-hot energy surged through my veins as I gave Lucien one final defiant look.

Game over, I thought.

Bounding high into the air, I let out a full-throated shout as I slammed my racket hard into the energy sphere, sending it smashing into Lucien.

The impact jarred Lucien from Koopa's hand, and the racket went flying into a nearby rock formation. He let out an echoing cry as he shattered to bits, the explosion reverberating through the shrine. The ground started to shake, and chunks of rock started to fall.

Dio! The whole place was about to collapse!

Just as I turned to flee, Koopa, having reverted to his normal appearance, scooped me up and carried me bridal-style out of the crumbling tennis court.

"I got you, L!" he exclaimed as he raced toward the exit with lumbering strides.

We emerged from the collapsing Temple of Bask into the approaching dawn. I saw Mario seated with Peach and her group, the concern on their faces giving way to relief when they spotted us. Mario had pulled on his shirt in the interim, and he leaned slightly against Peach's shoulder.

Gently, Koopa set me down beside my bro. Solemnly, we all watched as the Temple of Bask was reduced to a pile of stones, trapping Lucien's remnants for all eternity.

"Good riddance," I said, and everyone else hummed in agreement.

"Wow," gasped Daisy, holding my shirt across her lap. "You did it."

"No," I corrected, putting an arm around Mario. "We did it."

"Indeed," said Aster. "Now, the souls of the Kingdom of Bask, along with that of their King, can finally rest—and so can I. Thank you all."

Then, there was silence. Aster had departed.

"Crud," grumbled Wario. "I can't believe we had to destroy Lucien. He could've gotten us to the championship!"

"Yes—and he could've destroyed the universe," Peach sternly told him. "We don't need a magical racket to win at tennis. We just need to practice and train our bodies and minds."

"She's right," said Koopa. "Having Lucien felt good. He promised me unfettered power and untold riches. But in the end, he was just stringing me along, just like he strung Luigi along. I'm sorry, everyone."

"Apology accepted, I suppose," I said.

Everyone else grumbled something to that effect.

We helped ourselves to the rest of the snacks and drinks we'd brought with us as we watched the sunrise. Then, we heard a car approaching.

It was the Toad retainers in their convertible, Lesley Gore's "You Don't Own Me" playing on the radio. How fitting.

"Is everyone all right?" asked one retainer.

"I think both Mario Bros need to go to the hospital," Jackie spoke up. "The rest of us are okay."

Peach turned to me and Mario. "You two can ride with them," she said. "We'll follow behind you in our respective vehicles."

As Peach and Daisy helped the two of us into the Toads' car, I became aware of a peculiar stinging and tightness all over my body. Looking down, I saw the burn marks scattered on my upper body, one of them curving like a smile a few centimeters under my belly button. Another burn mark stretched across my right arm and wrist. Once Mario and I had fastened our seatbelts and the car began to move, the tiredness kicked in. I felt Mario slip his hand into mine and his head drop onto my shoulder before my eyes grew heavy and I dozed off.

I woke up in the hospital, where Dr. Toadley and some nurses were there to greet me. The good doctor explained that he was treating me for first-degree burns, exhaustion and mild dehydration. My burns had been treated with antibiotic salve and carefully bandaged, and I was intravenously administered a simple saline solution to replenish the electrolytes I'd lost. I'd be kept here at least a few hours for observation.

"Mario's doing well, too," Dr. Toadley assured me. "He's resting right now, but you'll be able to see him soon. Unfortunately, we'll have to keep him overnight."

"Super-duper," I murmured.

"I'm also recommending a psychiatric evaluation," said Dr. Toadley. "Mario told me about that sentient racket—Lucien. He must've really messed with your head."

"Not that much," I said.

"It's just a precaution," said Dr. Toadley.

I was left to my own devices for most of the morning. At lunchtime, the nurses deemed my sufficiently rehydrated and were able to remove the I.V. from my arm. The hospital staff served me a hearty meal, and I was allowed visitors. First, Daisy visited me, and then Jules and Jackie, and then Jas and Jake, and then the Butters. At around 3:30 in the afternoon, following a check on my vitals, I was discharged. I dressed in my polo shirt and shorts, and then I saw about Mario.

He and Peach were watching TV, and Mario was eating an egg salad sandwich with a side of chips, some raisins, grape juice and chocolate cake. While he was hooked to an I.V. drip, a sunny smile was on his face. We made some small talk, and we spent the rest of the day watching reality shows. After we watched the evening news together, it was time for Peach and me to leave.

It finally started to hit me when I was back in my room, my radio on low and tuned to a Top 40 station. Once again, an evil force manipulated me due to my hidden envy, and Mario wound up paying the price. I buried my head into my pillow and sobbed. Once I was cried out, I decided to go ahead and see the psychiatrist tomorrow. It would help to let those feelings out.

Getting some sleep will also help. It's been a taxing day, after all.

Luigi

26 June 2018

MK

Dear Diary,

Mario was released from the hospital with a clean bill of health, and he accompanied me to my psychiatrist appointment. I was evaluated by Dr. Christina Champagne, and she frequently invited Mario to participate in our dialogue. She made me feel safe and comfortable, and she assured me that I wasn't being judged. I told her about the Mr. L business eleven years ago and about how Lucien's machinations tapped into that dormant part of my brain. But I was determined to deny Lucien a final victory, vowing to put the last few days' events behind me and move forward, with Mario, Daisy and my other friends by my side.

Everyone else is moving on, too. Grace and Roland invited me to their second child's gender reveal party. Jasmine and Jake went to their first ultrasound. Jules and Jackie will help them baby-proof their home. And Joan has taken up pottery and embroidery, going to the bingo hall every Friday night.

I'll still have to wear bandages for a while, and so will Mario. But a day will come when those bandages will be removed, our wounds will heal and our scars will fade. Just like with King Boo and Dimentio, Lucien tested us—and we passed.

Luigi