I.

"In the year 1901 of our Kingdom, a strange thing happened… the Koopa Empire had fallen silent in the six months following the Smithy Gang invasion. The halls of the Senate buzzed with rumors of a military coup to the Emperor choosing to back down at long last. The Empire had been quiet in the past, but this time marked the first time that outright silence came from the Dark Lands. No parade, no radio address, or proclamation of Imperial might. War hawks began to buzz in the Senate from Portobello to Rose Town. Still, something also began to capture the imagination of the public at large: Mario Segale's increasing absence from the palace.

Mario and Luigi both grew up in the province of Crimino – a province that once ruled as a kingdom unto itself. Some within the Senate believed the brothers were untrustworthy due to their Criminan heritage. Others thought that Mario held political ambitions of marrying into the royal family. King Russet Frans Toadstool eventually regarded the rumors as fact and distanced himself from the brothers. For her part, Princess Peach maintained her commitment to her friendship with the brothers, and many historians believe that had the Princess shared her father's views, the modern world would not be what it is today…"

Sir Leon Peyrite; The Rise of the New Empire, University of Goom Press, 1920

Lieutenant Belle Fontiere followed the kremling; her frustration barely concealed but no less palpable. Why had they received an urgent message to report back to Caldera? Glancing at the broad back of the kremling, she frowned. Had Captain Vossak angered someone? Vossak carried himself with a regal confidence that the black tunic and trousers only accentuated. Unusually for a kremling, he had dark grey scales and neatly trimmed silver hair; however, his glowing blue eyes truly made him stand out.

Belle ruminated on the trajectory her career in the Imperial Navy had taken. Serving as the aide-de-camp to one of the Empire's most controversial officers for five years hadn't been on her forecast, yet looking back on it? She could scarcely imagine anything else more fulfilling in her life. Being able to walk within the hallowed halls of the Imperial Citadel? How many could say that they had done such a thing? She glanced at Vossak; he may have been able to portray stoicism well enough, but she could sense that he was on guard.

The staccatos of their boots hitting the tiles beat a steady rhythm as they marched toward an ornate door. Glancing up at the emblem above the door, Belle felt her jaw drop fractionally. Only practiced discipline kept her from dropping her cap in shock – why were they meeting with Kamek, the First Minister of the Imperial Assembly? Taking a deep breath, Belle steeled her nerves as she followed Vossak into the spacious office.

Scanning the room, Belle observed the shelves filled with rare books; some had to be Kamek's own writings in arcane theory. The map on the wall detailed the territories controlled by the Empire, the Mushroom Kingdom, Sarasaland, the Beanbean Kingdom, and the Waffle Kingdom, as far as she could readily identify. But the bespectacled, blue-robed koopa at the oak desk was what really drew her attention. He was hunched over, scribbling on a sheet of paper with a quill in his right hand. Belle couldn't help but roll her eyes, 'Who still uses a quill these days?'

"First Minister," Vossak announced calmly. He clicked his heels together and placed his right hand over his chest. In perfect synchronization, Belle mirrored the gesture. "Captain Komodo Vossak and Lieutenant Belle Fontiere reporting as ordered, my lord."

Looking up from his work, Kamek gave a warm smile, "Ah, excellent!" he exclaimed, gesturing to the chairs in front of his desk, "Please, sit down. We have much to discuss."

As the two sat, a toad shuffled forward carrying a tray. The toad poured three cups of tea and set them on the desk before stepping back. Tentatively, Belle plucked three sugar cubes and dropped them into her tea before stirring and taking a delicate sip. Neither Kamek nor Vossak touched their tea, but Kamek grabbed a thick manila folder and thumbed through the files sandwiched within. Belle felt her stomach bottom out. Had they angered a noble, high military official, or wealthy industrialist? Hiding an indulgent smirk behind her teacup, she had to concede that it would not have been the first time – nor, she suspected, would it be the last.

Setting the folder down, Kamek then lifted his teacup to his lips. He looked at the two of them with some amusement – Belle had to admit that it reminded her somewhat of her grandfather. Though she had to correct herself, her grandfather didn't have a hint of steel like the First Minister. Kamek set his cup down and leaned back, "Your service under Commodore Uvenk was quite… eventful, Captain." He began. "The Commodore is a difficult taskmaster, and praise from him is not easily earned. I am curious: how would you judge your time under his command?"

Vossak inclined his head, "The Commodore is far too modest, my lord." he said calmly. "The success of our pirate hunts hinged entirely on his judgment. He tasked the Vigilant with gathering the necessary information, but Commodore Uvenk's decision to act resulted in our success."

Belle suppressed a snort. For all his talk of Commodore Uvenk being too modest, Vossak clearly was blind to that quality within himself. Maybe that was why she found herself enjoying serving as his aide-de-camp. Despite admiring Vossak's own modesty, it also proved a point of frustration. Was it so hard to take a simple compliment? Glancing at the First Minister, she was surprised to see him nodding thoughtfully at Vossak's assessment.

"The Commodore did mention your humility on most matters, Captain," Kamek said with an amused smile. He retrieved another piece of paper from the folder. "I believe the words 'frustrating to compliment' were the words he used. Apart from Captain Temult, all your commanding officers highly regard your abilities. However," Kamek's smile contracted slightly, "I wish to address an oddity. You devote your time to meticulously studying all aspects of your enemy, not just their military strength. Could you please elaborate on that, Captain?"

Belle's eyebrows raised fractionally; it didn't sound like a reprimand. But they were still being questioned by the second most powerful man in the Empire. Vossak raised his head further, "I… can't really explain it satisfactorily." He began slowly, "When I study all facets of my enemies, I see things that are obvious to me. But… it has been brought to my attention that what may be obvious to me is not so to others."

Belle's cheeks warmed. Those were her words. Kamek raised an eyebrow, his frown deepening. "So, you see something there that helps you?" he mused. "Could you not learn just as much from Imperial records of the enemy's tactics?"

Shaking his head fractionally, the corners of Vossak's lips turned downward, "You misunderstand my lord." He began. "To defeat an enemy, one must study all aspects. Not just their battle tactics but their history, their philosophy… and their art. Art is a good measure of the enemy's psyche – each stroke of the paintbrush on the canvas or imperfection in the sculpture tells a story." Vossak's eyes seemed to glitter, "And one can learn a great deal about a people based on the stories they tell of others."

Kamek lowered his head slightly, "So… you admire the enemy's views?" He asked, giving a wry chuckle, "My dear Captain… one would almost think that was a treasonous statement." He grinned, "Surely, you are not admitting to such a thing?"

"Not at all, Your Excellency." Vossak countered politely. Belle couldn't help but admire that stoic nerve. If the roles were reversed and Belle was bearing the brunt of the First Minister's inquiry, she would have floundered at the insinuation. "I have never once deluded myself into thinking forbearance is the same as acceptance. Nor do I believe that all opinions are equally valid." His glowing eyes narrowed, "When I enlisted in the Navy, I pledged an oath to serve His Majesty to my dying breath." Vossak cocked his head slightly, "Have I displeased him in some way?"

Belle's eyebrows lifted as she considered what he had just said. On the field of battle, Captain Vossak was a miracle worker. She had watched him piece together battle strategies just from the slightest observation of their artwork or even the battle strategies of the enemy. Vossak was a force to be reckoned with in the straightforward nature of military matters. He was woefully out of his depth in the more cloak-and-dagger realm of the political arena. Belle wasn't any better, though she could at least recognize the tripwires beneath the frills and nice words. Had the Captain really understood what she had been trying to explain to him those many years ago?

Kamek only leaned forward; the glint from his glasses revealed a pair of piercing if exhausted, emerald eyes. He gave a small smile, "Come now, Captain Vossak." He chided gently, "If I were accusing you of treachery, it would be Lady Caretta conducting this meeting, not I." He clicked his tongue before grabbing an ornate cane and standing, "It is, in fact, your abilities and those of your aide-de-camp that have intrigued His Majesty. It was his decision to have you summoned to my office."

Belle's jaw dropped just a fraction, and her eyes widened. Personal attention from the Emperor? The nauseous feeling only intensified as she regarded the First Minister. Imperial officers receiving Emperor Bowser's personal attention were as rare as a bent drake. Still, such attention could only have meant two things: Either the officer in question was to be praised with the highest honors possible, or they were to be punished severely and used as an example of what failure meant to the Empire. Even the Emperor's own children were not immune to such a fate. Mentally, she corrected herself, remembering that the children weren't executed but stripped of command.

"The Emperor wishes for your help on a very sensitive matter. One that I trust will be given the utmost discretion." Kamek continued as he hobbled back and draped a maroon garment bag over the desk. Kamek opened a drawer and set out two small boxes. His eyes flicked to the map as he set the boxes on top of the garment bag.

Turning to the map, Belle frowned. Vossak stood and approached the map with his hands clasped behind his back. Sparing a quick glance at the First Minister, Belle made note of the amused smile on Kamek's face. Privately, she had to share in his amusement. Standing up, Belle padded over to the map, staring at it alongside the kremling. She could never understand precisely how Vossak pieced things together, but seeing him in his element was like watching an artist turn a blank canvas into a beautiful painting. She understood the basics but knew she was the assistant to the illusionist's tricks, which didn't necessarily mean she could perform the same tricks herself.

However, before she could truly take in the map, Vossak half-turned and regarded Kamek, "You wish for us to journey to the Mushroom Kingdom." He said quietly. Belle's eyes narrowed at that. "May I infer then that His Majesty wishes us to kidnap Her Highness?"

It was a near thing for Belle not to lose her composure. Yet, to her surprise, Kamek only laughed heartily at the suggestion, "You're half right, Captain." He said with a smile. "The Emperor has no desire to antagonize the Mushroom Kingdom. Nevertheless, this mission is suited to your unique talents within the Mushroom Kingdom itself."

Frowning, Belle turned her focus to both men and stared intently. This wasn't what she had expected at all. Missions into the Mushroom Kingdom often required other military figures, such as Admiral Caridin or General Gavorn. Of course, the Emperor himself would also lead such incursions. But… what needed Captain Vossak's talents? The kremling remained unreadable as he regarded the First Minister carefully.

"Very well, Your Excellency," he said firmly. "If His Majesty wishes it, then it shall be done."

The Lieutenant felt a knot form in her stomach. Once Vossak committed to something, then there was no turning back. But a gentle 'tut-tut' from Kamek snapped her from her thoughts.

"While I certainly applaud your enthusiasm, Captain Vossak…" Kamek began with a smile, "…You haven't even heard the mission's parameters."

Taking their seats once more, Vossak nodded, "Nevertheless, I am sworn to His Majesty's service."

"Please, humor an old man." Kamek said, his eyes sparkling with amusement, "This mission requires your talents and is strictly voluntary. If you choose to decline, there will be no repercussions. This mission is strictly off the record." For the first time, Kamek's smile disappeared entirely, "His Majesty needs the help of a certain… someone."

Belle's brow furrowed at the vagueness of those words. Who was this someone? Hadn't he just said that kidnapping Princess Peach was not their objective? Turning to Vossak, she noted his gaze was directed to the map again. But then, it hit her. No… it simply didn't make sense. Apart from the Emperor's desires for the Mushroom Kingdom's Princess, two brothers earned the Emperor's wrath. No… not both brothers… just one… she let out a hiss before she could stop herself…

"A thought, Lieutenant?" Vossak asked calmly.

Belle hesitated slightly, but the First Minister didn't seem annoyed with her; Kamek seemed equally interested in her thoughts. Swallowing her doubt, she breathed deeply, "I believe…" She paused, trying to work moisture into her suddenly dry mouth, "I believe we're being tasked to find… Mario Segale."

Vossak's eyebrows raised fractionally, yet Kamek nodded approvingly, "Very good, Lieutenant." The First Minister replied. His eyes flicked to Vossak, "Well, Captain? Does this change your answer? Remember, His Majesty has already decreed that this mission is off the record. No punishment will fall on you or your subordinates if you refuse."

The kremling shook his head, "Not at all, Your Excellency." He dipped his head. Belle had to resist the urge to roll her eyes. The First Minister's question was ridiculous. Captain Vossak seldom, if ever, rejected a mission. Vossak continued, "If His Majesty wishes we find Mario, then it shall be done."

Nodding in approval, Kamek gestured to the garment back and the two boxes. Belle raised an eyebrow as Vossak reached out and plucked the box that sat to Kamek's right. Reaching out and taking the other box, Belle opened it hesitantly. This couldn't have been what she was thinking it was, could it? Steeling herself, she looked down and felt her jaw drop a fraction. A bronze oak leaf – a promotion to lieutenant commander! Her mouth felt inexplicably dry as she hefted the pin in the palm of her hand. She had expected to remain a lieutenant for another year before being promoted to lieutenant commander.

Turning, she looked at Vossak, who held a silver, seven-pointed star in his hand. Belle's eyes widened in surprise. Could that be…? It was less surprising to see that Vossak had jumped a single rank to that of an Imperial Commodore. Yet, Vossak didn't even seem to register the new promotion as he pinned the medal onto his tunic. Kamek frowned as he watched Vossak smooth out the tunic, "Ordinarily, we would have had a ceremony." He murmured with a hint of regret in his voice. "But… the Emperor has insisted that time was of the essence." Kamek sighed before pulling out a thick manilla folder. "Doubtless, you will want to study Mister Segale's records. I pray that the Seven favor your endeavors, Commodore."

"We will not fail, Your Excellency," Vossak replied.

Belle took the manilla folder, idly noting the heft. She lifted a finger idly to stroke the oak leaf on her uniform as the weight of the situation suddenly crashed down upon her. Walking through the halls of the Citadel back toward the car that had brought them here, she grit her teeth in frustration. They were given a fool's errand! Convince the most hated enemy of the Empire to come to Caldera itself? What was the Emperor thinking? More importantly, what was the Cap—Commodore thinking? Stepping forward, she opened the car door and allowed Vossak to enter before climbing in herself. Military etiquette always had to be observed in the public eye. But now that they were in the relative privacy of a car…

"Oi!" Belle snapped angrily, "You want to explain what the hell we're supposed to do now!? How in the bloody hell are we supposed to get Mario here when he's likely to kill us on sight!?"

Vossak raised a polite eyebrow at her outburst. He leaned back in his seat and crossed one leg over the other while steepling his fingertips. Belle felt her cheeks warming in embarrassment. Other commanders would have harshly reprimanded her for the breach of protocol, but the kremling never seemed irritated by it. Vossak only raised an index finger, "You surprise me, Commander." He said wryly, "I thought you, of all people, would appreciate the challenge."

Belle closed her eyes and inhaled slowly. Vossak was certainly atypical in his approach to officers – particularly where her outbursts were concerned, but she didn't dare test her luck. Exhaling, she looked at him intently, "I don't mind a challenge, sir." She began cautiously. "I'm… just not keen on taking a trip to the Underwhere yet."

The Commodore considered this and smiled, "I don't anticipate that will happen any time soon, Commander." He paused thoughtfully before holding out his hand. Belle immediately presented the folder to him, and she watched as he opened it and began thumbing through the pages, "Despite this rather impressive dossier that the First Minister has provided us, I don't believe Mario is the monster that the Empire portrays him as."

Belle couldn't help the wince on her face, "Be careful, sir. That could be considered a treasonous statement." She frowned and tilted her head thoughtfully, "Do you know why we met with the First Minister and not His Majesty?"

Vossak shook his head fractionally as his eyes scanned the reports, "No." He admitted. "Though, I suspect our mission and his absence are connected."

The redhead frowned at the Commodore, "Speaking of our mission, sir. How precisely do you plan to get the Vigilant into the Mushroom Kingdom without attracting attention?" Belle frowned as she considered another problem, "We would need to also account for the fact that traveling from here to the Vista Hill garrison alone is roughly two weeks."

"Indeed. Fortunately, the Vista Hill garrison is our intended destination with the Vigilant. From there…" Vossak trailed off.

Mario Segale sighed with trepidation as he trudged the pathway to the Chanterelle Palace. In all the times he had walked up this very pathway, never before did it feel like he was marching headlong into a fortress in the Dark Lands. Yet… that foreboding feeling lingered now. Shoving his hands into his pockets, Mario stopped momentarily to admire the massive fountain. The water spilled from the upper bowl of the fountain into the base with a melodic drip. He couldn't help but frown as he glanced at the doors to the palace. Once upon a time, he regarded it as a home away from home. But… could the same be said now?

Six months ago, the very idea that King Russet would regard him with any dislike would have seemed ridiculous. Any stilted conversations with Princess Peach would have been met with laughter. But now…? Now, Mario wasn't so sure. The King's contempt certainly unnerved him, but his interactions with Princess Peach troubled him the most. Kicking a loose pebble, Mario sighed and turned to enter the palace.

Upon entering the palace, the familiar scents and smells wafted over him, and a small nostalgic smile spread across his face. The staccato of a cane hitting tile caused him to turn and see a toad hobbling toward him. The elderly toad looked up and beamed at the plumber, "Ah, Master Mario!" He said happily, "On behalf of Her Highness, thank you for coming on such short notice!"

Mario shrugged, "Well, I know better than to ignore a royal summons, Toadsworth." He chuckled absently. "How've things been for you?"

Toadsworth huffed as he stared at Mario, "About as well as can be expected." He frowned, "Ever since Her Highness was named Prime Minister, the workload has only increased. Between you and me, the Princess hasn't been sleeping nearly as much as she should."

Mario frowned at that, "That's not good…" He murmured.

The elder toad huffed again, "Indeed not. Fortunately, Her Highness found an able young lady named Tari Sheridan to assist her." Toadsworth smiled faintly, "Good thing too! I'm not as spry as I used to be."

Mario's eyebrows raised slightly as he followed the elderly toad. Mario's eyes drifted toward the imposing portrait of a middle-aged man with piercing blue eyes and graying blond hair. Mario paused momentarily as he stared up at the imposing picture of King Russet Toadstool, the ornate white coat with gold epaulets, purple vest, white shirt, and white cravat giving the image of a far more intimidating king than the one Mario had been introduced to back when he first rescued the Princess. Even from the painted canvas, Mario could feel a sense of resentment from the painting radiating down upon him.

"Master Mario?" Toadsworth called out, causing the plumber to jolt. Mario looked down, seeing an amused grin on Toadsworth's face, "We certainly don't wish to keep Her Highness waiting, do we?"

"…No, I guess not." Mario chuckled weakly.

Sparing one last glance at the portrait of the King, Mario followed Toadsworth in silence once more. The few radio and television reports Mario had bothered to listen to had many wondering if Princess Peach's appointment to the position of Prime Minister had been done to help prepare her for the inevitable ascension to the throne. As his mind drifted back to where he was walking, it hit him: Peach would've had her own private office within the halls of the Senate. Was she taking her work home to the palace, too? Mario's stomach tightened into several knots as the two approached a door. Toadsworth wrapped his knuckles against the door and cleared his throat, "Princess, Master Mario is here to see you." He called out.

A muffled voice answered as the chamberlain opened the door and gestured for Mario to enter. Inhaling softly, Mario entered a room that did not match what he had expected from the Princess; rather than the soft pink and gold she was known for, the office was decorated with blue tapestry and gold trim. The telltale ivory marble tile was in the room, coupled with an immaculate oak bookcase filled with many books. Mario's gaze drifted over to an equally remarkable oak desk where a blonde-haired woman sat with a pen, scribbling away on a sheet of paper.

As Mario approached the desk, the inescapable fact that Peach's appearance had undergone a significant overhaul became apparent. Gone was the soft-spoken princess in her pink gown; in her place sat a young, regal woman exuding a quiet strength. Her current ensemble's similarities with her father's attire made him uncomfortable, yet he couldn't help but smile faintly at the pink cravat she was wearing. Some things never changed, but if this was to highlight her position as the Prime Minister, he had to admit it suited her quite well.

"Take a seat." She said matter-of-factly, all without even raising her head.

Mario's eyebrows shot up involuntarily as he sat in the chair opposite her. The tone had taken him aback and did very little to soothe his nerves, which now felt like an exposed wire. She probably hadn't meant it to sound as brusque as it did, but still… were things really so far gone now? Crossing his legs and slouching slightly, Mario let his mind drift, thinking of a simpler time. A time when things were less complicated and far less awkward. Glancing at the paper, Mario felt his curiosity piqued by what it was. Judging from some of the language, it was probably political… and dull. Peach signed the document with a flourish and leaned back with a sigh. Straightening his posture, Mario was surprised to see how tired she looked.

Peach only gave an apologetic smile for her part, "I'm sorry… we've been wanting to get the funding allocated for this infrastructure project on the floor for some time." She said through a yawn, "Excuse me!" She blinked in embarrassment.

Mario's lips twitched slightly as he shook his head, "Don't worry about it." He replied calmly. "I'd have thought though many people would be good with the idea of fixing roads, bridges, and the like?"

The Princess stretched her arms and stood up, "Oh, they do; it's just the usual head-in-sand holdouts we're trying to get to accept the necessity of it all." She sighed and moved to glance out the window of her office. "You'd think that increased revenue in their districts would be enough of a motivator, but…." Peach trailed off with a shrug.

Mario frowned, "Not to mention jobs…" He murmured.

Peach shook her head, "Oh no, they want jobs. They believe that prioritizing the military is the best approach." She snorted in derision, "Many want us to become the Empire in all but name. Compulsory conscription, ministries run by the armed forces, you name it… they want it."

Mario's frown deepened, "And you're the one thing standing in their way…" He murmured.

"Alongside a few others." Peach nodded, "I'm really hoping to get the Senate to allocate funding for our own hypercrete production."

Mario's eyebrows lifted fractionally, "Our mutual acquaintance might not appreciate the fact that Monstro Town's newest resident has given us that." He cautioned.

Peach waved a hand, "I'm not too fussed with what the Emperor thinks." She scoffed dismissively. "Though… Lord Graemon has been particularly bothersome about the Koopa Empire's silence…" She glanced at Mario, "What do you think?"

"Oh, I think anything that takes Graemon's attention off of me and my brother is just swell, in my opinion." Mario chuckled bitterly. "You'd think that two brothers from New Donk City wouldn't be a blip on his radar, but…." He trailed off and shook his head, "But that's not the question. Is it?"

Peach only smiled and shook her head, "Despite everything he's done to you and Luigi, he's been a valuable ally in the Senate." She sighed, "But you're right. Bowser's been silent for six months. Some have been thinking that he's dead."

Mario snorted, "Now that's optimism at its finest." He shook his head, "No… Bowser's got something planned, the question is… what's he planning?"

Peach nodded, "And this odd silence from the Empire hasn't really helped us…" She murmured, "Normally, we'd be hearing reports of military parades and Bowser's usual blustering speeches." She returned to her seat and leaned forward, "The silence has been part of the push for the Mushroom Kingdom to become the Koopa Empire in all but name effectively. Many hardliners think this is our chance to wipe out the Empire."

"Similar to how the Empire neutralized Ferros?" Mario tilted his head. Politics may not have been his forte, but he enjoyed history to a certain extent. "Let me guess, Lord Graemon has been leading that particular charge?"

Peach shook her head, "Lord Graemon actually agrees with my assessment. I'm pushing for reforms and projects to fortify the Mushroom Kingdom." She explained, "While he would certainly like to be able to project the Kingdom's forces in such a way to deter attack, he hasn't gone so far as to suggest a declaration of war."

"Shocking." Mario murmured, "I remember when he was more outraged that Luigi and I didn't kill Bowser after the first kidnapping."

Peach clicked her tongue, "That would be due to Prime Minister Renard explaining that you and your brother would have essentially brought war to our doorstep, and we wouldn't have been prepared for an all-out attack." She sighed, "Sadly, Renard was proven right six months ago."

"Smithy…" The plumber grumbled. "Yeah…"

Peach chuckled softly, "You know… it's actually what happened six months ago that I wanted to talk to you about." She began as if steeling herself, "Why have you been avoiding the palace so much lately? I seem to remember a time when you spent more time here than at your house."

There it was. The question that Mario had been dreading. He opened his mouth to answer her but soon closed it, debating how best to answer. Leaning forward in his seat, he heaved a sigh. Words had never really failed him. Yet, here he sat, unable to answer such a simple question. Glancing up at the Princess, Peach met his eyes with a patient – if expectant look on her face. Opening his mouth once more, he closed it. Mario repeated the gesture for what felt like an eternity before the dam finally broke.

Sighing again, Mario opted for the truth, "I just… felt like I needed to work on myself a bit, you know?" He muttered, "I know things didn't exactly work out between us, and you didn't feel the same way about me, but… I was hurt. After that night, things were awkward whenever I came to the palace. Sure, you never really made me feel unwelcome, but… I always felt awkward just being around. Then, after a bit of time… I just felt unwelcome." He gave a slight shrug, "After that, I just backed off."

What perplexed Mario the most was that Peach didn't seem to understand his admission. Was he imagining things, or did she seem annoyed by it? Peach pinched the bridge of her nose and sighed. Mario frowned; this was precisely what he had been dreading. He placed his hands on the armrests and prepared to get up; however, Peach clicked her tongue and shook her head, "I'm sure my father's attitude certainly hasn't helped either…" She growled.

Mario's eyebrows raised fractionally as the frustration radiating from Peach was palpable. Perhaps sensing his curiosity, Peach's shoulders relaxed slightly. Peach had always spoken highly of her father; was that all a front? Mario couldn't help but feel he was witnessing something he shouldn't have. This was something new entirely, "Um… His Majesty?" Mario asked cautiously.

Peach winced and looked distinctly uncomfortable. It was as if she were determined to put the lid back on whatever she had let slip. She sighed and looked at Mario with a tired, if sad smile, "You're one of the few people I consider a friend." She said quietly, "Whatever disagreements we've had, whatever awkward moments there have been… you've always been welcome here." Peach looked at him, "And here I was thinking that you hadn't wanted to be friends at all…"

Mario blinked in astonishment, "What?" He asked. How could Peach have arrived at such a ridiculous conclusion? He shook his head in disbelief, "I… I just thought things wouldn't return to what they were before… well…" He swallowed hard, 'Before I made an ass out of myself…' he added mentally.

Peach smiled faintly as she shook her head, "Mario…" She sighed, "We'll have to work around it, but… I think it's possible." She raised a forefinger, "Though… I admit it wouldn't be easy."

"Nothing worth doing is ever easy." Mario chuckled as he leaned back in his chair, crossing one leg over the other.

Peach smiled faintly, "Well… it'll be nice to have a friendly face within these walls again." She mused before letting out a yawn. "I'm sorry I keep yawning!" She exclaimed with a faint red creeping on her face.

Mario chuckled slightly before glancing at the setting sun, "Don't worry about it, Princess." He began before wincing slightly, "Erm… Peach. I've taken up enough of your time, and you've probably got another mountain of paperwork to get through." He added with a faint smile.

Peach only laughed as the two stood up. To Mario's surprise, she stepped over and hugged him tightly, "Next time… don't be a stranger, Mario." She chided him gently, "I don't like to use a royal summons for my friends."

Mario let out a soft chuckle, "Deal."

As he left the office, Mario had to thank his lucky stars. Maybe Luigi was right in that Mario was far too pessimistic these days. That meeting could've ended in catastrophe, yet it didn't. Still… what had happened between Princess Peach and King Russet? At a glance, Mario was inclined to think it was a simple disagreement between a father and daughter, but… the fact Peach seemed hesitant to even broach the subject after her momentary slip? That intrigued him. Maybe it was something that Luigi understood more thoroughly than he did. But still… why did it make him feel so uneasy?

Note from the Author:

Sometimes, I'm never satisfied with the work that I do. Amanita Chronicles has been a long-standing project that I've worked passionately on for quite some time. When this story began, it was initially to cash in on the Bowsette craze. While I was undoubtedly inspired by fanfics like Bowsette Syndrome and Glory of Bowsette, I eventually lost a lot of passion for the project as the more intriguing angles presented themselves and seemed to overpower the theme of Bowser having an identity crisis. I tried to make Bowsette a separate character, but that also failed to meet the standards I had set for myself. And in replaying several old games and some new ones, I have concluded that my story needed a massive overhaul.

Bowser's Kingdom is more accurately described as an empire with Bowser functioning as an emperor in all but name. He has kings swearing fealty to him, and while historically there's precedent for this, such as Agamemnon being King of Mycenae and his younger brother Menelaus being King of Mycenaen Sparta, I was drawn more towards the historical example of Hohenzollern Germany and that of Imperial Japan. So, naturally, this meant that Bowser got an upgrade in rank as Emperor of the Koopa Empire.

Peach's characterization in the Mario games is often inconsistent and one that greatly annoys me when one considers that you can't rule the Mushroom Kingdom when you've got the intelligence of an amoeba. In this, I decided to go for a blend of the intelligent woman we see in the Super Mario RPG games and maybe a smidge of the character we see from the Super Mario Bros Movie. My goal is to portray a confident, caring young woman who is good at what she does and capable enough to make herself a major player in the story.

To streamline the story's canon, I focused on a select few games with the story's timeline veering off after the end of Super Mario RPG. There will be references to the events of the remake's post-game and nods to the mod Super Mario RPG Armageddon, where it was directly established that Daisy and Luigi were actively involved in the game. However, I will also be referencing games in the Mario franchise, even if they are not canon to this story.