Chapter 19: Water Land

May 10th

11:00 A.M.

Halberd

Just one more day remained until the beginning of the Mario and Sonic War Festival. Not only were the stands, but the stadium was ready and decorated to catch anyone's eyes. The process of the events was confirmed with the two Hands and the schedule was up and ready.

The Halberd was crowded indeed and what better way to get some of these people out than with a mini vacation? Cheap and harmless, Master and Crazy Hand decided everyone should go to the beach while they watched the SSBB Park.

"WE HAVE LOTS OF SEXY SWIMWEAR FOR THE GIRLS!" Crazy Hand said.

"AS FOR THE MEN, WE DID WHAT WE COULD. . ." Master Hand said.

"Well, that's good to know." Link said.

"THE SWIMWEARS IS ALL PILED AND HUNG IN THE LADIES' ROOM. PICK FOR FAVORITE!" Crazy Hand said. The girls in the Halberd exchanged smiles with one another and paced themselves to the ladies' room. Being the most excited, Daisy entered the room first, catching many patterns and colors, bikinis, and one-pieces.

Daisy's eyes sparkled, taking a step into the room. "So many to choose from!"

"I know," Rouge said, entering right after. Soon all of the girls made their way inside the room and shopped for their dream swimsuits.

"Maybe Sonic will like me more in a bikini!" Sally thought out loud.

"No, he won't! Mine will be ten times better!" Amy disagreed, glaring at the sassy squirrel.

"Guys, there is no need to fight," Elise said.

"Shaddup, Elise!"

Fiona Fox rolled her eyes, picking up a bikini. "You losers are so annoying every time you open your mouth about Sonic!"

"Just change, scumbags." Baby Daisy said.

Daisy glared at her baby self and smacked her on the head. "Watch your fucking language!"

"Don't get me started with that baby! Keep that- -that thing on a leash!" Fiona added, side-eyeing Baby Daisy.

Baby Daisy responded with her small middle finger right at her. "Suck my dick you stinky-ass dog!"

"Wh-what was that?!"

"Well, aren't you deaf! Want me to spell it out for you? S-U-C-K, M-Y, D-I-C-K! Dumbass dog!"

Fiona dropped her swimsuit and cracked her knuckles, approaching the baby. "Wait till I rip you apart! How dare you call me a dog!"

"Mommy! Save me from this rabies-infected mutt!" Baby Daisy hurried over to Daisy, hugging her legs.

"Lay a finger on her and Ima break every bone in your body, ugly fox!" Daisy said.

"Look in the mirror, REDHEAD!"

The girls couldn't choose their swimwear without feeling safe. Fiona and Daisy continued to bark at each other without getting their hands dirty for a brawl.

Zelda clapped her hands, hoping to calm the situation. "You two! Stop fighting!"

(oOoOoOo)

Men's Room

Although the men's room filled more than it could hold, it wasn't as rowdy as the women's room.

"There's a lot of noise coming from the ladies' room." Silver said, looking back at the door they came from.

"I know," Chris said.

"What Crazy Hand said, they have a lot to choose, don't they?" Tails said.

"He be bias." Diddy Kong mumbled.

"Makato is going to look super cute in a bikini. . . I gotta make sure we match!" Roy grinned, digging through the pile of swim trunks and speedos.

"Honestly. . ." Marth shook his head.

"Can she swim?" Ike asked, looking at Miru.

Miru shook his head. "It doesn't matter the potion she makes, Makato sinks like a rock."

"Good for me then. I'll keep that in mind." Ike said.

Roy gave a stink eye to the mercenary. "What's that supposed to mean?"

"Come on, guys! At least put on some pants!" Pit said.

"Hey, Kirby!" Charmy buzzed over to Kirby, who held a salad bowl, smelling up the room. "Whatchu eating there?"

"Potato salad."

"Looks good! Shouldn't you be finding a speedo?"

"Say that shit again and I'll shove every potato down your black and yellow ass."

"Oh, Kirby. . ." Toon Link sighed.

"Vector, why is your nose crying red water?" Big asked, staring down at the alligator with his curious eyes.

"Wha?! It's n-nothing! Mind your business!" Vector swiped the blood that dripped down his nose.

As the men picked them amongst the trunks and speedos, noise erupted from outside of the room. The guys stopped and turned to the door. Hoping the noise would subside, it grew more and more into yelling and screaming. High-pitched voices could only mean girls.

"What's going on outside?" Meta Knight said.

"Perhaps a fight broke out. . .," Marth thought out loud.

The timing couldn't be better. A gush of wind slapped everyone's cheeks as Fiona shot through their room like a bullet, crashing against the back wall. All of the guys froze from her sudden appearance and turned to the orange princess in her orange bikini as she stood with curled fists.

"Fiona!" Scourge exclaimed.

"Oh. . ." Marth's jaw dropped from the unexpected guest.

"What the heeeeck?!" King Boo exclaimed.

"Jesus! I need pants!" Roy crouched himself in a frog position, picking up a pair of flaming trunks.

"Shit. . ." Ike did the same, also grabbing the nearest trunks.

Unbothered by many of the half-naked guys, Daisy marched straight to the injured fox, cracking her knuckles. "You mess with my baby, you mess with me! Fucking bitch!"

The girls from the ladies' room gathered outside of the men's room, watching.

"Oooh, tell 'em!" Baby Daisy cheered.

"Best not to mess with her. . ." Amy sweatdropped.

"She's really scary." Cream pouted, holding unto Amy's legs.

"Such strength. . ." Elise said, shocked.

"Please, Daisy, can't you be less violent?" Peach asked.

"Baby Peach thinks so too." Baby Peach said.

"Daisy, it's inappropriate to come into the men's room." Espio said.

Daisy scoffed and crossed her arms, stopping right in front of Fiona's body. "There's nothing to see anyway. Except for Prince Marth of course!"

"What's that supposed to mean?" Ike said, glaring at her.

"Time to make my move. . ." Snake snickered, sneaking out of the men's room and right across to the ladies' room. Before he had a chance to enter, Cosmo stopped his tracks, standing right in front of him. Snake eyed the plant girl, straightening himself up.

"Where do you think you're going?" Cosmo spread her arms wide, blocking Snake's way in.

"Move it, bean sprout." Snake shoved Cosmo to the side and took a step towards Birdo, now being a new blockage to his path. Snake eyed her polka dot bikini and groaned from the sight of it.

"Sorry, hun. Women only." Birdo said.

"Dinosaurs playing dress-up? Kill me now. . ." Snake shook his head, turning back to the men's room.

"What!?" Birdo exclaimed.

"Lemme continue fracturing your skull." Daisy lifted her fist and aimed toward Fiona. Before she could get another pounce, Scourge snatched her wrist and pulled it away. Anywhere from Fiona's face.

"That's enough, Daisy!" Scourge said.

"Don't touch me!" Daisy used her other free hand and smacked him across the face. The impact sent him flying, crashing against the other swimsuits that hung in the closet. "I'm not done yet!"

"Err!" Fiona got up, wiping blood off her mouth.

Daisy grinned and cracked her knuckles as a warm-up. She remembered Marth was in the same room as her, loosening her fist. "I'll spare you. . . for now."

(oOoOoOo)

After the changing and the packing, Master Hand and Crazy Hand dropped the Smashers at Water Land. A last-minute decision. It wasn't the beach, but it had water. Many people were captivated by the sight of the Halberd, as it was the biggest transportation by far.

Making their arrival, the Smashers spread themselves to enjoy the water and the slides and the sun regardless of the attention they were grabbing.

"No way!"

"SSBB is here!"

"What are they doing here?!"

The hot topic at Water Land was the Smashers' sudden appearance when they were also working on the Mario and Sonic War. People thought they would be busy, but here they were.

Daisy and Fiona continued their beef out in the public pool with various water guns at their disposal.

"Once I'm done with you, that baby is next!" Fiona said, pumping water into her gun.

"Bring it on, Swiper!" Daisy held a gun that was twice the size of a normal water gun. Fiona sweatdropped at the sight of multiple barrels connected to Daisy's gun. The children screamed and cheered while the concerned parents watched the two like it was the event of the day.

"H-hey!" Fiona panicked. "You can't use that!"

"What? Gotta use something I bought," Daisy said. "First person to hit their target ten times wins. If I win, break up with Scourge!"

"What?! Hell no! Then if I win, I'm taking Baby Daisy and making her my slave!"

"Go ahead! Yeet her to the sharks! I don't give a fuck! Let's do this!" The war began as water from their guns became lasers, being shot out at lightning speed. The kids that watched too close were either soaked to the rim or curled into a ball from the intense water pressure. From Daisy's bazooka, many bystanders were caught in the blast of her aimless attacks.

"HAHAHAHAHAHA! Eat shit, Fiona!"

"Daisy! At least use a smaller gun!" Knuckles shouted.

"Hey, Knuckles, how about we play some music?" Silver suggested.

"Sure," Knuckles nodded. Silver then ran to the intercom and played a song from the speakers in Water Land, convincing the people at the intercom it was a kid-friendly song. However. . . .

Bitches ain't shit but hoes and tricks...

Bitches ain't shit but hoes and tricks

Lick on these nuts and suck the dick

Get the fuck out after you're done

And I hope in my ride to make a quick run...

"What kind of song is this?!" Tails plugged his ears.

Knuckles shrugged. "It's not that bad. . ."

"Seriously?"

Sliver came back to the two, wiping the sweat from his forehead. "What? I thought it was a good song for Daisy and Fiona."

(oOoOoOo)

Water Land was also known for having both a water park and a beach. Their beach wasn't as popular as the park itself due to its small size, but it was something that customers fall back to after riding the many slides.

Taking advantage of the now empty beach, Makato sat on a sandy hilltop of the beach in her pink one-piece. She sighed, watching the sun from the ocean view. During the day, she tried to enjoy herself but. . . the water. . . everyone swimming. . . it was just . . .

"Hey, Makato."

"Oh," Makato turned her back after seeing Sonic approaching her. "Hello, Sonic. . ."

"What's wrong? Do you not like Water Land?"

Makato's eyes softened, turning her attention to the sun once more. "To be in the water means to float. . . to swim. And I can't do either. The thought of drowning fears me deeply, and I think it's best to not touch it at all. . ."

Sonic let out a chuckle. "Well, we're both on the same boat then. Except, I hate getting wet. As long as I can run, it doesn't matter where I go."

"Ah. . . So I'm not the only one." She couldn't help but smile.

"Chris was trying to teach me how to swim, but that went wrong on so many levels. But anyways, you shouldn't limit yourself to swimming. There's plenty of other things to do."

"You're right. . ." Makato blinked a couple of times before standing up. "I think I'll go back to Water Land. . ."

"That's the spirit!" Sonic showed a thumbs up, approving her change of heart.

"What will you be doing?"

"Run like there's no tomorrow," Sonic said, stretching his arms.

Makato nodded, "Thank you, Sonic. I'll see you later."

"Enjoy yourself while the day lasts."

A third party watched their conversation, keeping herself hidden behind a boulder. Her fingers curled against the rock, glaring at Makato. Even after the warning, she. . . she brushed it off!

". . .I told her to stay away from Sonic." Elise growled. "I have seen her face on the internet. . . I could use that to my advantage and get rid of her once and for all."

(oOoOoOo)

Water Land

"We've been looking all over for you!" Samus jogged towards Makato in a sky-blue bikini.

Makato made eye contact with Samus and the other girls that followed behind. "I was just looking around, that's all. Sorry-"

"No excuses!" Samus swung her arm around Makato's shoulder and ruffled her hair.

"Now that the eight of us are here, let's go to the Sea Monster's Dorm! Elise's idea!" Peach cheered. Makato glanced over to Elise and froze. Elise didn't back away her gaze at Makato, only to creep out a smile. Not wanting to take part in the staring competition, she glanced away.

"It sounds like a lot of fun to me," Zelda said.

"H-haunted house?" Mini stuttered.

"I don't know about this." Blaze sweatdropped.

"It sure d-does. . . hehehe." Bunnie shivered.

"You guys aren't chicken are you?" Samus sneered.

"No!" Mini, Blaze, and Bunnie answered immediately but their facial expression showed nerves shaking down their spines.

"Let's get going! We don't have time to waste." Peach said, leading the group. Haunted house! House haunted! House the haunted! Here we go!"

"This will be my first time going to a haunted house," Makato said.

'And your last. . .' Elise thought with a smile.

(oOoOoOo)

Sea Monster's Dorm

The eight of them entered the Sea Monster's Dorm. The moment they entered the haunted house darkness surrounded and coated like unwanted blankets. An aquarium that sprinkled bits of small orbs indicating the lack of light for the utmost terror. Whispers and grumbles were just as unsettling for Mini and Bunnie, gluing onto each other. Peach took the lead with Samus and Blaze. Makato walked side with Zelda and Elise, followed by Mini and Bunnie.

Down the dorm they ventured, the girls took careful steps and eyed their surroundings. Hooks, shark heads sticking out from walls, blood, eyes. Luminescent eyes. Only their breathing was the noise they could hold onto as their comfort. At least for some of the girls. . .

"Aaaaah!" Bunnie screamed. Her scream caused the rest of the girls to stop and turn to Bunnie and Mini.

"Wh-what is it?!" Mini cried.

"S-something touched my foot!"

"Where?!" Samus searched the ground along with the other girls.

"I. . . I don't know!"

Peach turned around and felt a touch against her ankle. Looking down she saw the visible face of a terrifying. . .

"A turtle!" Peach then picked up the plush turtle and squeezed it in her arms. "Aww, so cute!"

"All for a fucking turtle?" Samus shook her head.

"It is cute. . ." Makato said.

"Th-then what about that?!" Mini pointed to the thing that was in front of Zelda. The girls turned to where Mini pointed and came across a human-sized sea urchin with bloodshot eyes on two hind legs.

Peach's face went pale instantly from the sight as a scream escaped her lips. Blasting off to a run, the girls ran after Peach, also catching glimpse of the urchin monster.

"Poyooo~! What idiots!" Kirby snickered inside of the costume. "That's another thousand dollars! Suck it, scaredy cats!"

(oOoOoOo)

Halfway into the haunted house, the girls stepped aside to keep the traffic flowing.

Samus wiped the sweat from her head. "Maybe it's best we call it a day. . ."

"I agree," Blaze said.

"But we can't stop now," Zelda said.

"Then stay here," Samus said.

"You know what I meant, Samus." Zelda sighed. "We need to find the exit. . . apparently it's more of a haunted maze than a house."

The girls exchanged looks in the darkness before walking again. Ten minutes passed of endless jumpscares and they were still wandering in circles.

"Where is that damn exit?" Samus muttered.

"What if we're stuck here forever?" Peach pouted, squeezing Makato's arm.

"It's not real, anyway. We're just stupid to find the exit." Samus said.

"I wanna get out of here. . . " Mini sniffled, holding onto Bunnie's arm.

"Please, calm down." Blaze said.

It was dark to keep count of the group, as Makato scanned around. There was one girl amongst them that was pretty quiet throughout the haunted house.

"Um, have you guys seen. . . Elise?" Makato asked. Just when she asked, she heard a spray and the scent of tropical paradise lingered in the air. At least. . . around them. The girls also took notice, looking around and sniffing.

Peach peeked at Makato and puckered her lips. "Princess Elise? Ah. . . no. . ." She finished her answer with a yawn, leaning over.

"Smells like coconut. . ." Samus murmured. "Fuck, I'm starting to get. . ."

"Sleepy, sleepy. . . Good night. . ." Peach closed her eyes collapsing to the ground.

"Sleeping. . . gas?" Zelda struggled to keep her eyelids shutting on her, but the pressure of sleep caused her body to go limp and straight to the ground. Seconds of trying to stay away made all of the girls knocked out into deep slumber. Settle footsteps approach the group with Elise tossing a can of sleeping gas. Elise eyed Makato, making sure snores were the only thing she heard from the potion princess' lips before snapping her fingers.

"Ok, you can come out now," Elise said. "Princess of Potions, Makato, is over there in the pink swimsuit." As signaled, two young men walked past Elise and picked up Makato who lay by Peach.

"We ain't stupid." Man One said. "Her face is on the web."

". . . Yeah, whatever. Just make sure nobody finds her, okay?"

"That's why we got trash bags." Man Two said. "We'll stuff her body in the bag before we leave the haunted house. Through our secret escape route."

"We pretty lit for coming up with that!" Man One snickered.

"Okay, hurry up," Elise whispered, handing them a thick layer of bills. "Here's the pay. Now, go."

Getting their pay, the two young men left with Makato. Elise watched like a hawk, making sure they were gone from her sight before crouching down beside Bunnie.

(oOoOoOo)

"Oh my. . . Is everyone ok?" Zelda let out another yawn, rubbing her eyes. Right when Zelda woke up, the other girls yawned out from their slumber.

"Is this part of the haunted house? What a dirty trick. . ." Peach stretched her arms, getting up on her feet.

"I know," Elise also followed their routine to keep off the suspicion.

"Let's leave. . . I'm so down with their tricks. . ." Samus grumbled.

"Something tells me we'll be able to find the exit sooner. . ." Blaze shook her head.

The girls continued to walk in the dark and this time the jumpscares didn't affect them.

"Ah. . . Makato. . . Where is she?" Peach leaned to Samus, squeezing her arm.

"Huh? Isn't she with you. . .?" Samus glanced behind at Mini and Bunnie, then Zelda and Blaze. Elise kept her attention on the hooks and the webs while keeping herself from smirking.

"Maybe she left without us?" Elise asked.

"Nooo~! She's afraid of the dark!" Peach whined.

"Not once I heard her scream. . ." Samus sweatdropped. "Let's get outta here first. . . God, I'm tired. . ."

(oOoOoOo)

In the main center of Water Land, a crowd formed up to watch Daisy and Fiona's battle regardless of their safety.

Daisy grinned, cornering Fiona with her over-the-top water bazooka, aiming it at the fox. "One more point and I win. Nine out of three, baby!"

Fiona clicked her tongue. She knew the blast, the pressure of the gun, and rather not get a fatal injury. Especially in a corner. The pacifist route brushed across her mind, as she set her gun down and raised her arms. "Damnit, Daisy, let's just stop with the silly games and makeup already-"

"Nah, bruh. I need the utmost victory royale. Hmm, I wonder, what does the fox say?"

"You motherfu-"

Daisy cut her off by pulling the trigger, blasting water right at Fiona's face. The pressure was immense, gurgling out a "stop", but stopping was far off from Daisy's mind. After releasing the last gallons, Daisy raised her gun in the air, gaining cheers and screams from the kids.

"A lost is lost." Daisy relaxed her shoulders, tossing the water gun aside. Kids scurried over and fought for the winner's weapon. Her victory made her an idol amongst the kids. Anything she had was gold for the children.

"Date Luigi. I'm curious to see how it all folds out." Daisy said, staring down at the soaked fox.

Fiona let out a growl, slowly getting back on her feet. Tears formed in her eyes. "This is not fair! Luigi. . . He's. . ."

"He's what?" Daisy questioned, tilting her head. "Too short for you? Tall? Too much of a coward? He only wears green? Ugly?"

"He's ITALIAN!" Fiona sobbed.

"Wow, didn't see that coming. Come on, let's find your hot date!" Daisy looked around for her green Italian friend but ended up spotting a group of buff men in black uniforms. She froze catching badges on their shirts, knowing they were coming for her.

"Um. . . you go find him and Ima not get caught! Peace!" Daisy then sprinted off away from Fiona and the lingering kids.

(oOoOoOo)

Most of the male Smashers watched the indoor competition: Miss Beach Side. This was the perfect excuse if it meant looking at girls without getting smacked.

As the third round came to a close, five girls remained on the stage for the chance to win an all-paid vacation. It was now up to the audience to cast their votes to declare the final winner.

"My vote going for Luci!" Roy smirked, confidently crossing his arms.

"Teefa." Snake said.

"Same here. . ." Miru added.

"I went for Errzah," Ike said.

"I like Heenata, she's a kind girl," Marth said.

"Luci kinda cute, but I like Sakoora." Pit gazed at the girl with short pink hair.

"All of them got big boobs. . ." Link commented. "Well, except Sakoora. . ."

"That's exactly why this contest is for the pervs amongst pervs." Marth turned to Ike, who sat next to him.

Ike glanced at Marth, popping a vein. "Don't even start it."

"Samus should have competed." Pit said.

"I tried convincing her. Ended getting smacked. . ." Snake smirked.

"Of course, my future girlfriend, Makato can't be compared to these girls and their plain swimsuits!" Roy said.

"Makato's wearing a one-piece, FYI." Link said.

"All the more innocent!" Pit added.

Marth sighed. "You guys are weird. Tell them, Ike."

"They can think what they want. It doesn't matter at the end of the day. . ." Ike said, watching the host walk back on the stage.

"So, you're agreeing with them?" Marth caught glimpse of his blank stare and his pointer finger, tapping the life out of his knee cap. "Or. . . are you still salty because Makato's hanging out with the girls and not you?"

"Shut up." Ike ran his fingers through his hair. "I can't shake this bad feeling. . ."

"Probably your dick."

"You really wanna catch these hands, don't you?" Ike cracked his fingers single-handly.

After that long talk of who was going to win the host came out with a golden trophy in his hand and a card.

"And the winner for Miss Beach Side is. . .!" The host held up the winner card as the trophy was displayed right on the podium for all the contestants to see. The drum roll played, increasing the anticipation. As the host pulled out the card from the envelope a blackout interrupted the contest for a few seconds before the lights shined back. Chattered rose from the audience and soon into gasping once everyone noticed the trophy was missing in a heartbeat.

"Oh no! The trophy!" The host cried, scanning the girls, the stage, everywhere.

"What the?! What happened to the trophy?!" Roy asked.

"Someone sneaky must have stolen it." Pit said.

"No shit," Snake said.

"Don't tell me. . . Who's one of Sonic's friends that has a bad habit of stealing shiny jewels?" Marth thought out loud.

"My, oh my. . . What a beautiful trophy," Rouge gazed at her new trophy from the ceiling vent, rubbing it like a delicate flower. "Looks like I'm the winner."

(oOoOoOo)

Outside of Sea Monster's Dorm

The girls that entered the haunted house, left with tired looks on their faces. They searched the crowd that formed near the exit, hoping to catch pink buns in a pink one-piece. Minutes into swarming through the crowd, they saw pink. Pink hair, but a different gender. Pink swimsuits, but bikinis. Pink hair and one piece, not the person they so hope to find.

Samus brushed her hair to the side of her ear and sighed. "Makato? Hey, where are you?"

Peach looked back at the haunted house. "M-maybe we left her behind! And the sea monster wants her for dinner!"

"Don't be silly, Peach. We even retraced our steps and asked the staff that worked there. . . And Makato was with you, remember?" Zelda said.

"Where could she be? We practically looked all over." Samus grew impatient, and it wasn't the stares and the cat-calls.

"I don't know, we should tell Master Hand," Peach suggested.

"Isn't Master Hand at the park?" Blaze asked.

"Oh. . . yes."

"What if she left? Or maybe Makato's just lost." Mini frowned.

"We'll find her, we shouldn't involve Master Hand. This place is big after all. . ." Samus let out another yawn. "But, for real. . . I can't stop yawning. . ."

"Yeah, the sleeping gas got me tired. . ." Bunnie rubbed her eyes.

"Sleeping gas. . ." Zelda murmured. "Were we the only ones that got caught in the gas?"

"Perhaps so. It's hard to tell with the place being pitch black." Elise added.

"Let's ask somebody!" Peach said, running to a man that came straight out of the Sea Monster's Dorm.

"Excuse me, sir, were you put into sleeping gas?" Peach asked.

"The heck? Why would I sleep in a scary place like that, you crazy woman!" The man then marched away.

Peach puffed her cheeks, placing her hands on her hips. "Well, that wasn't very nice at all!"

"Let's ask one more person," Zelda said, scanning for competent people. She then saw two girls walking out of the haunted house, laughing and smiling.

Zelda sweatdropped as she approached the two. "Excuse me, ladies. Did any of you feel sleepy after leaving the haunted house? Like some sort of sleeping gas."

"What gas?" Girl One asked.

"Yea, we didn't fall asleep. This place never mentioned sleeping gas." Girl Two said.

Zelda nodded at their answers and thanked them before walking back to her girl group. "The gas was intentional. Peach was with Makato before the gas came. . . From the looks of the situation. . . either Makato woke up before us. . . or she never did, taken out of her will."

"Are you saying somebody took her?" Peach folded her hands together. "In broad daylight?!"

"I'm afraid so. Her head has a bounty. . . since that day we went to Maple Forest. More of the wrong people are discovering her power."

"How the hell. . ." Samus grew bitter by the minute.

"Hello, ladies." Marth greeted the group, walking towards them, followed by Roy, Link, Miru, Pit, and Ike. The girls looked over to the male Smashers with worried looks on their faces.

"You guys looked stressed out. Is the haunted house really that scary?" Roy grinned.

"Did something happen?" Marth asked.

"Makato's missing. . ." Zelda explained. "And we need your help finding her."

Miru froze. "Makato? What happened to her?"

"What?!" Pit cried. "We gotta find her!"

"Wasn't she with you guys?" Link asked.

"She disappeared right after we woke up from sleeping gas," Elise explained. "Apparently, it was aimed only at us just so they could take Makato."

Ike crossed his arms, staring down at his feet. "This must be the bad feeling I had. . ."

"Whoever took her shouldn't have gone far," Marth said, hoping to bring some light into the matter. "First, we should tell everyone about this and commence a search party. From the park to the beach."

The Smashers did a group nod before splitting up into a sprint.

(oOoOoOo)

"Come on, Boss, can't we touch her? You know how long it took for us to get here?!"

"Yeah, Boss. Walking with a large trash bag wasn't easy. . ."

"Shut up! Anyone one of yall touches the merchandise, I'll kill you on the spot!"

"Yes sir. . ."

"What a bitch. . ."

"What was that?!"

"I have an itch?"

Makato listened to the conversations with her eyes closed, feeling her body tied up against a wooden pole. The ground rocked back and forth below her feet, so she assumed it wasn't the beach, but a ship in the ocean. It was risky to open her eyes, but she had to. If the ship were to sail too far off from shore, it may make things impossible to recognize the area she would be in.

A splash of cold water shot her eyes wide open, tasting a bit of sand. . . and majority, salt. Rubbing them was out of the question, as she blinked away the sting of the surprising water. Makato let out a cough before looking up at a muscular man in a ripped black tank.

"Time for you to wake up, Sweetie." The leader tossed the empty bucket to the side, as he glared down at her. "The name's Jack, and I'll be your escort today. Within a few days, you're about to make me and my crew millionaires."

". . ." Listening, she searched the ship with a few men on board, staring with drooled lips. Unsatisfied, she was forced to stare at Jack and his poorly trimmed beard.

Watching her curious ocean eyes, Jack couldn't help but smirk, pulling out a rolled-up paper. "We're heading off to a small city called, Rodograd. King Odhran Henness heard about the Tachibanas and saw your cute face on the Internet, Turns out that old pervert wants your hand in marriage. The reward is more than we can imagine."

So far, his words didn't put a visible reaction. Jack then grabbed her cheeks for a better inspection. Makato answered with a wince and held her breath after taking a whiff of booze and cigars from his attire.

"What a shame to let such a cutie go to some old rich fart. I'd trick him if the price were low, but this is the biggest deal. I'm sure he wouldn't mind if I mess you up a bit. . ."

His hand reached for her left breast, giving her a firm squeeze in front of the daunting crew.

"W-wait. . . not here, please. . ." Makato pleaded. "They're all watching. . . Somewhere more private without any light whatsoever."

"Ah, so you do talk. . ." Jack paused on the groping, removing his hand away from her chest. "Forgive me, Princess. As you are now, you'd rather have things a bit more modest. Don't worry, I'm quite the patient guy. Hell, why not take the detour and have kids of our own? Then sell dem off for a profit. Sounds like a dream business to me. Men! Take her to an empty room."

"Yes, Boss!" The crew members gathered near Makato, untying the ropes that bound her and grabbed her by the wrist.

"Easy with her! It's not like she can escape. Treat her like you treat me." Jack said. "We'll prepare a feast before we get started." One final gaze at his hostage, licking his lips slowly toward Makato before marching off. His ambition drove a pit into her stomach, unable to express her fake smile toward the leader. Rather a sickening look.

The crew took her to an empty room as ordered that displayed a worn-out bed, a small table, a dusty closet, and opened cracks for the roaches and rats to come and go as they pleased.

"You're to stay here until dinner is ready." One of the crew members said.

She nodded silently and entered, turning her attention to the walls. Before they locked the doors, Makato turned to them.

"May I get a glass of water before you go?"

"Uh, yeah. . ."

"Thank you."

The crew then left to fulfill Makato's request. While they were off, Makato collapsed to the ground and held her chest. Breathe. She had to control her breathing, or they'd catch on in her weakened state.

'Disgusting. . . how dare he!' Makato cupped her lips in case she was to puke. 'There's not much time! I need to make a potion that'll get me out of here! Rats. . . bugs. . . perfect! Yes. . . those will do. . .'

(oOoOoOo)

The rest of the Smashers got the message that Makato disappeared and were now on the lookout while enjoying their time at Water Land. After searching the beach, Sonic continued the search at Water Land. Looking around, he stopped and stared at Elise. The Princess was cheery as ever, approaching Sonic with a smile.

"Hey, Elise." Sonic greeted.

"All this searching made me tired. Let's get something to eat." Elise said.

"I'd eat, but we should look for Makato before we-"

"The others are looking for her, so more time to enjoy ourselves." The princess interrupted.

"Uh. . ." Sonic trailed off, scratching his cheek. "I think it would be fun for all of us to-"

"Sonic- -please. . . ., just-" She grew irritated from Sonic's neutral answers, furrowing her eyebrows. "Please! Forget about Makato! She's not here! Searching for her is a waste of time!" Elise cried.

"Whoa, whoa, hold the phone!" Sonic shook his hands to calm her down. After some thought, the things she said, made him. . . upset. "What do you mean searching for her is a waste of time? Do you know where she is?"

"Like you all, I don't know the location." Elise wiped her tears and cleared her throat. "All I can say is, she's not here anymore."

"So, all this time. . . You started this, didn't you?"

Elise kept silent for a while, rubbing her arm. "I don't know what you're talking about. She's my friend, why would I do something like that?"

"Then there shouldn't be a problem if we find Makato together."

"You're so concerned about her. Is it because you like her company more than me? Is it because she's a Princess? Maybe that's why you didn't invite me. . ."

"Elise, it's not like that-"

"Your suspicions are correct. I did it. I warned her, but she took my threat lightly. I hope no harm, but she pushed my buttons. I wanted her to disappear, but it only created more problems."

"Zelda was right all along, huh?" Sonic nodded to himself after getting Elise's confession.

Elise's eyes widened, as sweat trickled down her cheek. It didn't seem the case if Zelda knew Elise was responsible. "W-wait, Zelda? Huh? Don't tell me. . ."

"During the search, Zelda told all of us that Elise may have done it. According to Zelda, if it weren't for Makato's question about your whereabouts, it may be impossible to glue the pieces together. I didn't want to believe it at first, but. . ."

Her eyes showed no life. Everyone knew yet nobody gave glaring eyes toward the princess.

Sonic watched her reaction and crossed his arms. "If you're wondering about nobody witch-hunting you, it's because I told them not to. Regardless of the situation, I don't want any more of my friends to be in danger of their lives. We'll find Makato. Just make sure you apologize later."

". . ." Elise teared up. Unable to hold them, she cried. Cried till her throat dried up. "I. . . I'm at your mercy. F-forgive me. . ."

A handful of the Smashers eavesdropped behind stalls and plants in case of any new information on Makato's whereabouts. After hearing Elise's confession, some Smashers left to continue the search. Some stayed to render their feelings.

"I didn't think she'd spill out the beans. . ." Samus said.

"I believe Elise's not the type to keep lying to the people she cherishes the most." Zelda frowned.

"Makato. . ." Peach sniffled her nose.

"Even after all of this, she was never here. . ." Roy grumbled, rubbing his hair. "Like, I don't wanna give up, but. . . damn it."

"Calm down, Roy. We'll find her." Marth said.

"We'll just have to think logically," Miru said, crossing his arms. There's another part of Water Land and it's the beach. Since it's the least populated we can start from there."

"I've already searched the beach with Ness and Lucas." Pit said. "Just a bunch of old people. And this pirate-looking ship for the aesthetics."

"Maybe the parking lot?" Zelda added. "Somewhere outside of Water Land. The ocean. They could have escaped by boat."

"Sounds reasonable," Samus said.

"Alright, let's look outside of the park. We don't have much time." Ike said.

Marth glanced over to Ike's eyes noticing its calm demeanor. "For someone with a temper, I'd thought you'd choke the living daylights out of Princess Elise."

"Jail isn't the time and place. . ." Ike looked over to Marth with a blunt stare. "That's why we have minds."

Once everyone exchanged nods, they split up and continued the search.

(oOoOoOo)

6:00 P.M.

Ship

During the past hours, the smell of grilled fish was fuming around the ship. Taking in the smell, Makato knew time was running out. Whatever the food, it was a risk to eat. Swimming was out of the question and the chances of the food being drugged was another problem.

It was a patient process, catching anything that was living. It was worth the wait when she was able to gather two small mice. She placed them on the small round table, next to the potion she created in the small glass cup. From what used to be water, the liquid was now a magenta color.

"You two are so cute. . ." Makato sat in a chair, smiling at the brown mice. Oddly obedient, they stood in place when they were rewarded a few crackers.

"I'm sorry, but you won't be small for some time now. Drink up." Makato placed an empty saucer in front of the mice and poured the potion to the maximum hold. The mice gathered to the plate, sniffed, and sniffed. Maybe it was the color? The smell?

"It's not poison-" Makato paused her words and turned to the door, hearing footsteps coming closer and closer. Seconds were eating away and the mice continued to sniff the potion.

Then came the turn of the knob without a knock. The door slammed open, revealing Jack with a toothpick in his mouth. One of the mice scurried away from the noise, while the other leaned closer to the potion.

Jack stared at her swimsuit and pointed the way out of the room. "Time to eat, Princess."

"I'll eat later. . ." Makato turned back to the mouse on the table, noticing the constant licks of the potion.

"You don't have a choice," Jack said, walking towards her. Makato stood up and blocked the view of the table where the mouse continued tasting the potion.

"Unless you wanna do it here and now. The choice is yours, Sweetie." Jack grabbed her wrist and lifted her arm till her heels were off the floor, immobilizing her to move. The grip was like an iron claw, soon to bring out quick bruising.

"Please, let go. . .!" Makato's eyes watered from the pain. Time. She just needed more time. How long would it take for the mouse to drink the recommended take?

"On second thought, I'm in the mood to see what's under the swimsuit. . . The King won't mind."

Fear drove inside of her; eyes widened when he began to drag her towards the rugged bed. She glanced back again and the saucer was now empty. The mouse shook in place for five seconds and the ears popped off ten times the size. Jack heard the rumbling on the small desk and glanced at the table. The mouse continued to grow to become its elephant size, making it a danger to the room, and soon the ship.

Jack glared at the rat that continued to grow. "God dammit. . . you did this, didn't you?! Fucking destroying my ship!" Turning back to Makato went for her small neck and squeezed with all his might.

Makato gasped for air at the wrist that choked her. "Y-you're at. . . my mercy."

"You bitch, what was that?!"

Just when he said that the elephant rat charged straight for Jack with an open mouth. He was forced to release her so he could roll off the bed before he was gobbled up along with part of a mattress.

Now he knew what she meant.

Makato coughed and inhaled big breaths of air, removing herself from the bed. The mouse crawled its way towards her, wiggling its ear as a sign of affection.

"If I'm put into danger, my mouse will eat anyone that isn't my scent." As she explained, Makato crawled on top of her mouth and sat on it, holding onto its fur. "Release me, or we'll all drown at sea."

(oOoOoOo)

"Hey, Makato! Can you hear me? Wake up!"

Makato shot her eyes open from his voice and lifted her back. A towel covered her body due to the chilling night in the middle of the ocean. Regaining her consciousness, Makato checked her surroundings. Instead of floating on top of a mouse, it was a small wooden boat that carried her. The voice that called to her sat across from Makato in his swimming trunks, showing off his muscular physique.

"Ike. . . is that you?" Makato placed her hand on her forehead as drowsiness consumed her.

The shocked look on Ike's face slipped away, letting out a sigh of relief. "Are you alright? What happened?"

Makato looked at him, seeing the concerned look in his eyes. "A bunch of pirates knew my name and planned to sell me off to some. . . King. Luckily, I made a potion when I was trapped and escaped."

"That explained how you were in the middle of an ocean. . ." Ike nodded. "Even when you couldn't swim? Well. . . doesn't matter now. I'm glad I came in at the nick of time."

"How did you. . .? The boat?" Makato then asked.

"When Pit mentioned a pirate ship, I had a feeling you were taken offshore." Ike leaned back, gazing at the stars. "I took the gamble of borrowing some boat, hoping to catch up to the ship. Hours later, I saw you passed out on some rat. The mouse then shrunk. Before you drowned, I scooped you out from the ocean. Here we are now. . ."

Makato gave a slight nod, curling her lips. "Was my absence a burden? To think you would have to go so far to risk your life across the waters. . ."

"Don't say that," Ike said. "What matters now is that you're safe."

"Thank you so much. Because of you and everyone, I get to be here. . ." She gave her thanks, but her expression showed sadness, pulling her legs towards her chest. "Being on that ship reminded me of another memory when I was young. . . One of my closest friends sold me out to pirates and tried to get me on their ship. I was saved. . ."

Ike listened silently, studying her frightened body language. Even with the blanket that covered her legs, she shook. Without rocking the boat, Ike slowly got up on the boat and walked toward her.

Makato watched his actions as he sat by her, now feeling his arm brushing against hers. The skinship and the lack of space reddened Makato's face, freezing in place.

"Sleep if you want. . . We'll be back on shore in a few hours." Ike then said.

Makato shook her head. "I-I'm not that tired. . ."

"Good. . . I was begging for that kind of answer."

Maybe it was the stars that set the mood and both of them were in the middle of the ocean. Or Ike's way with words. Makato relaxed her legs and stiffened her posture, feeling her heart race. He stared at her ocean eyes but never made a move. Was he expecting something?

"Forgive me. . . I hope you don't mind. . ." Makato murmured, reaching for his cheek. She leaned in and kissed his cheek for a split second before parting away.

". . .Makato, to think you'd. . ." Ike sat like a statue and let his arm touch the cheek her lips came in contact with. "Am I dreaming?"

"It's my way of saying thank you." Makato's face was now the color of a tomato. "Don't take it the wrong way, I don't do this often. . ."

". . .Yeah. I'd be mad if you did this to every guy in the mansion."

"It won't happen again." Makato cracked a smile.

"Wait, what?" Ike furrowed his eyebrows.

She giggled. "It's. . . a joke."

Ike watched her expression change which made him smile a bit. Just a bit. The salt was real with the joke. "Well, you sure suck at it. I'd rather have you angry back at the forest than stomach a joke from you. Definitely cute when mad."

"I don't know whether to take it as a compliment or not. . ." Makato smiled but backed it away piece by piece when she was caught in Ike's stern gaze. Silence danced between them and not one of them spoke.

She couldn't tell what he was feeling. Maybe it was just the ocean and the one small boat they drifted in. Was he offended by the "joke" earlier? All she needed was an answer-

"I like you. A lot. . ."

"H-hh. . uh?" Makato stuttered out a response, speechless from his instant confession. She felt his hand reaching for her cheek, stroking it with the strands of her pink hair.

"I was almost mad at myself for thinking it was impossible to find you. . ." Ike looked away, staring at the dark ocean. "If it was Marth, let him drown in the sea. But for you, it. . . it was different, even though we're slowly getting to know each other. Never I'd think I would go this far to search for you. . . Thank God. . ." He then turned to her staring back into her eyes.

Makato lowered her eyelids, mesmerized by the warmth of his skin that touched her cheek. She then held the back of his hand. "I had already given up surviving when I escaped. I wanted to be free, even if it meant dying in the ocean. I'm grateful to you, Ike."

"It's what I do. . ." Ike cracked a smile. "Unlike you, I won't ask for your forgiveness. . ." He muttered, pulling her in. Makato froze for a bit, feeling his lips pressing against hers, but soon closed her eyes completely. Warm it was in the cold night and forceful to keep each other from parting away.

There was nobody, but the waves rocking back and forth.