Downfall of the Mushroom Kingdom
Restoration
A/N: For the remainder of this quarter, the chapters will become a little more intensive and a lot more action will happen.
March 17, Afternoon
Peach's Castle, Mushroom City
There she was, alive in the flesh. This was no mirage or deception that Daisy was seeing in her room. In fact, her vision was so distorted from the tiredness and the crying that when she saw her it was like the second coming of the cosmos, as if her body was glowing. This was, at least to her knowledge, Peach standing in the doorway.
"P…Peach?" She stuttered, still struggling to believe that it's her. "Y-you're back?" She smiled as she walked into Daisy's room, getting on to the bed with her. She was wearing mostly the same clothes as she wore the night of the last mission, so it had to be her.
"I just got back now. The journey was a very long one, but I'm here." Peach went to stroke Daisy's face while they were on the bed together. "I take it your time while I'm gone has not been kind to you. I'm so… so… sorry." The two exchanged their biggest hug in weeks. Daisy was still grabbing on to her after ten seconds. Peach was yet to understand how much her return meant to Daisy.
"How did you get back, did Duncan re-activate the portal?"
"No." Peach wiped the tears from Daisy's eyes. "I came from Brooklyn. Do you remember that Ledro fellow from the Red Martyrs? He and Muji, with the kid's help, were able to get me a flight all the way back. I'll explain everything." Daisy moved slightly away and got herself comfortable, knowing that Peach was going to story her the journey.
I thought I was going to be stuck there for at least a week but I'm so happy it was only two days. After we found ourselves trapped in England, I took the girl to the boy and we used him to come along for the missions. Anyway, afterwards, I crashed out at Ellis' house. She allowed me to stay at hers for both nights and I honestly owe it back to her. When she comes to here we will give her what she deserves. We had spent the day using Rynmar to go over and help about the situation. I'm sure he came over for that?
Daisy nodded. "I'm sorry I did not treat him very well."
"Has he arrived today at all?"
"No."
"Well anyway." Peach continued. "He was able to get a hold of Muji who gave him a number to give to me to call up Ledro. As it turns out, he's been working on this side with Muji and he was the one who was able to give me transport on the way back." She was now going to give her account on the next night.
This morning there was like three or four in the morning here. I woke up at Ellis' again after basically spending the whole day at hers while they went to school and stuff during the day. It was a nice house but it got a little tricky with finding out what to do when you have nowhere to go and no idea what to do. I wasn't really allowed to touch anything either, because she lives with her mum and she didn't tell her about it. In the morning though, she went to school and her mum left for work early again, and I was left alone. She told me that from then on that she would get Rynmar to come back so he could try and meet me but I'm pretty sure he's not going to come back until tomorrow because that's when they'll be guaranteed to know that I'll have returned. What ended up happening was I had transport take me from her house all the way to the England airport and then I boarded a private jet to go from England to Brooklyn. I'll tell you, they had some very nice champagne on the flight! I should try and buy a lot the next time I properly go for leisure. I'll take you as well. Anyway, I landed in New York and I had another private transport take me to Brooklyn. That was where I met Ledro…
He worked in this hotel and the transport took me straight to the front door and there he was waiting outside.
"Peach. It's so good to see you." It was a true delight to see him. He was looking so much better than when we last saw him here. Maybe the Red Martyrs were taking a toll on his health. It's so glad that he was able to leave it, especially now with what's come of that group. He gave me a big hug and I was very fortunate to have his hospitality.
"Thank you so much for this. You don't know how much it means to me! It's terrible how I was trapped in England. Thank goodness I'm able to go back now." I said back to him. Now, he did offer me some hospitality at his hotel where he worked, but I couldn't waste any more time. I had been absent for not only these past two days but the days just after Rainbow Road when I went on my own accord. I had to return, especially for you, Mario, and Luigi, and the people of the Kingdom!
"Shall we get into my car then and I will take you all the way to the portal?" He offered me another ride. One last ride in New York City. He took me across Brooklyn Bridge and all the way to the piers where the pipe was. It's amazing how after all these years it's still perfectly secret and discreet there. The ride was easy and smooth and when I got out nobody noticed me! He actually followed me in to the portal and went across with me, so for a brief moment he was able to see the Mushroom Kingdom one last time. He dared not step out of the cave though. He didn't want to get too attached. But here I am now. I went straight back to the back entrance of the castle and rushed straight here. I've not really interacted with anyone since. A few castle guards know I'm here, but that's about it.
Her story was done, and Daisy was trying not to cry, but this time it was tears of joy that she was back for good. Daisy didn't know what to say next. There were good things and bad things to be said but seeing Peach in such a happy mood on her return was a delight for her not to spoil immediately.
"Well I'm so glad you're home. I've had some trouble trying to keep things in order for you while you're gone. It's not been easy." Daisy gave her another hug, mainly to look away from her.
"Have Mario and Luigi been unable to help you recently? Where are they anyway? I'm sorry I wasn't there to lead the Webcapstow mission. I'll get to that as soon as I can once I've sorted the things around here first. We can get to that later, all right? I'm hoping to see Mario and Luigi some day." One thing just struck Daisy's mind. She just realised that Peach doesn't actually know about the Webcapstow operation. "Oh yeah, the Rynmar kid told me that you managed to lead the mission well and you got an arrest! I'm so happy for you! I think he said that you were trying to track down Duncan, right?"
"Not exactly." Daisy quickly interrupted Peach, scratching her scalp in minor embarrassment. "Duncan… got away, but we got our lead and that's what matters. Basically there was an underground tunnel system that went all the way out of the city and in to near the centre. It's been shut down recently and the arrested people were partially responsible for it happening. As for Duncan, he's gone so that portal's probably going to be closed for a long time." Daisy anxiously brushed more of her face, excusing the sweat on her face for tears. "What matters for you now is that you need to relax and rest, and so do I. Mario and Luigi? Don't worry about them for now. They're kind of on some leave now."
"Leave as well?" Peach raised her voice. "I'm the Queen of the Mushroom Kingdom! They were meant to cover for me!"
"Relax, Peachie. We're fine now. I'm fine. You're fine. That's all that matters. Oh, actually-."
"Stop with the actually repetition Daisy. Can you please tell me where Mario and Luigi are, for I very much like to speak with them! They should be here and happy that I am back!" Daisy hesitated and went silent for a few seconds. Peach noticed the strange behaviour from her and immediately went to assumptions. "Did… something happen to them?" Daisy's hesitations turned into a disaster. She tried to turn her face away from Peach as tears started to leak from her eyes. "What's wrong?"
"Mario… I'm… I'm sorry." She covered her face with the duvet, screaming her cries into it and cancelling out most of the noise.
"Is this about Webcapstow?" Peach wondered, trying to rustle up Daisy but she kept her face covered with the duvet. "For goodness sake Daisy, tell me what happened to them!"
"Mario's gone." She revealed her face. It was heavily red, flushed and full of tears. "Ninety-nine percent sure he's dead." The inside feeling in Peach stung her sharply as if she was stabbed in the heart. Hearing Daisy say this whilst looking so broken down meant that there was no way she would be lying about it. "He went off to pursue the Koopa we found partially responsible for it, and he never returned. He had a wired camera but the Koopa broke it off of him. This Koopa as well… he's not like any other Koopa. He's… Dargovi they say. His name is Raiyon, and he's still out there somewhere as he took Mario's body with him. I should have been there with him, Luigi and I should-." Peach's face was now just as red as hers and she grabbed hold of her and gave her another massive hug. "All we have is his cap!"
The two weren't making much noise but now they were both crying together.
Peach could hardly believe it. While hugging Daisy, every memory she had of Mario over all the years they knew each other – ever since they were kids – would fly through her mind. All the good times, all the bad times, all the love and all the important memories, and yet, she never really gave him the chance he always wished for, to be with her forever. He didn't even get to see her and the last time she saw him… was probably a memory so forgettable that she couldn't even remember what happened that last time. No wonder Daisy might feel that everything's so difficult for her when she and Luigi are suffering the biggest loss since the other princesses in 2010. For Peach to find out about this now, everything already feels like it has fallen apart for her. In the span of about half a minute she contemplated almost everything in her life. Was there meaning to it now? What could she do? Is it true, is it a lie? Who knows, who doesn't know? He mattered more to her than the Mushroom Kingdom. Without him, what was there for her to do now?
"I don't know what to do." Daisy cried. "I don't know if I could have done anything differently." While she was still hugging Peach, she noticed that around her back, Peach's arms were wrapped but her hands were clenched into fists. She was feeling both sorrow and anger, perhaps at herself but Daisy wasn't so sure. Peach still said nothing as more and more memories flashed through her mind. Frames of past memories appearing ten times a second until one last one appeared in her mind and this one wasn't even with Mario, but with a younger boy in his teens, staring straight back at her with the southern sunrise shining on his face.
"It's my fault." Peach sighed, no longer clenching her fists. "This all happened because of that kid… and last week… I let him get away from my grasp. I had him, and now I don't have my love…" She wiped her eyes as she remembered the memory of seeing him on Isle Port at dawn the day after Rainbow Road. The opportunity to put him to rest so he wouldn't end up taking the gem from the portal's socket so she could have easily returned… but then… she wouldn't have even needed to go back in the first place, unless the only intent was to bring back Tobias. But having two humans from Earth suffer from knowing the loss of their friend just for the sake of returning another was not worth it at all. There was no winning and it was too late now. Duncan lives, Mario does not, and while she has two of Duncan and Tobias' best friends now with great reputation to her, using them retrieve them only to kill Duncan would be so cruel. Did Duncan mean for this to happen though? Just because he stopped the portal which led to these events happening, doesn't mean he was responsible for Mario's death or disappearance. "Ah, what am I saying? I can't think straight right now."
"Neither can I, Peach." Daisy added relating to the suffering she was enduring. She had been doing it for nearly two days.
"I've got to do some things today, but I will return to the castle in the evening. This Kingdom's going to go crazy when they find out about Mario. You said very few know, right, or did you not say at all?" Peach brushed herself off of the bed, stretching and wiping the tears from her face. The anxiety had to go. This wasn't what she was built for. To rule the government and the Mushroom Kingdom there wasn't time for open sadness and weakness, especially with the newfound threats to deal with. On the inside, her heart still ached from hearing about what happened, but she had to remain resilient and strong on the outside.
"Not many people…" Daisy tried to recall. "Toadasha, Tranko, Toadsworth, Luigi… a few Brigade soldiers." Peach nodded, feeling confident in the Brigade soldiers that they were told not to tell anyone. The Toad loyalty was strong, especially with those serving her directly.
"Right, well… a speech must come. I don't really know what to do yet but this is going to probably be the death of me." Peach headed to the door but was interrupted again by Daisy making some attention-calling noises.
"Peach?"
"What?" She turned her head.
"There's something else I should mention to you. Mona brought it up last night while we were sitting out on the balconies." Peach walked back to the bed but making no attempt to get back on it with her. "She mentioned the idea of… abdication." Peach raised an eyebrow and now felt compelled to sit on the bed with Daisy again, trying to get a better understanding of what she really meant by this. "There's been a lot of talk about the public in disapproval of the current status of royalty and with things being as tough as ever now, the idea of putting the faith of the Toads in their hands might be the better way to go. I mean, you just said that managing them could be the death of you! If it's too much, then maybe it's time to put it in the hands of others who can take the burden away from you. Stupid I know, but maybe it might be worth it for your health in the end." It was something for her to at least consider, but Peach shook her head immediately.
"It is my duty to watch over the Toads and to watch over the Mushroom Kingdom. I've got the council to refill on my return. I need to appoint new people." She got off of the bed, regretting spending the time on it for listening to what sounded like a ridiculous possibility. "I know that I said what I said, but I'm already this defeated with everything else. Managing the Kingdom will hopefully feel like child's play." Peach had enough of the idea. It would stay in her head for a long time though, as it was very tempting. There wasn't a major downside to it, but it would mean her duties were no longer of use to the people. She would instead be able to do whatever she wanted and live like a glorified celebrity. These weren't the times to be well-off living like that though. What use is being rich and famous in a land that could become at war?
Back to what she was meaning to do today. There were two people she had intentions on visiting today. While she was not in the spotlight, she was able to navigate through the Kingdom in secrecy. These two people she wanted to visit today were completely different, but at least one was on the way to the other. Before leaving the castle, Peach made sure to check her directories to verify the address of the first person. Today would be a long day spent mostly for driving, but these wishes of her must be done. Heading out of the castle, her emotions got back to her. Thankfully they were not on the level that Daisy had over the past day, but they still bothered her a lot. Being told that Mario was most likely dead did fill her mind with grief and sorrow, but she had not yet seen it herself and couldn't really believe it the way Daisy could. She had seen it all, but Peach's priorities were everywhere so Mario's passing wasn't able to occupy all of her thoughts. For now, her focus was straight to governance and the plans for the day. Peach knew that mourning for Mario had to wait, because she was so far behind on everything else.
Now, this first person she wanted to visit lived in the city suburb of Kazarga. Most people weren't sure whether to classify it as part of Mushroom City or a separate town. It was situated in the far east of the city and on the city's Eastern metro line. It was just north of Acorn Plains but area was so built-up that it actually connected with the rest of the Mushroom City metropolitan area. It took Peach no more than twenty minutes to reach this town by going by car and going around the city on the fast highway system. She knew exactly which house this friend lived and parked right outside, hoping to surprise her with a visit. Peach knocked on the door and waited patiently for the female Toad to arrive on the other side. After fifteen seconds, the door opened and she saw the Toad right in front of her eyes.
"Princess Peach… sorry, Queen Peach. I never thought you'd have the time for me again!" The female Toad smiled in awe, blushing at Peach. This was Salma Willbarrows, one of her almost lifelong female Toad friends.
"Salma. I've not forgotten about you after all of these years." Peach greeted the Toad and gave her a massive hug. The friendship between Peach and Salma was almost like Peach's friendship with Toadette, but more on the side of Peach as if she wasn't a princess or queen and just more of an actual person. The friendship between them was genuine and not affected by any boundary of royalty and the main thing in common was football. The two had known each other for over fifteen years, and despite the two never playing football with each other during Peach's years of having a team to manage, they kept up a friendship through other things.
"To what do I owe you the pleasure?" Salma said with excitement but also a little bit of worry. "You know, people were starting to wonder if you had disappeared again. Have you made a public appearance since?"
"No I haven't yet, but I plan to this evening." To Peach, one could say that Salma was one of her secret friends. Daisy had heard about her many years ago but the importance of Salma to Peach wasn't that known to her. People like Mario and Luigi had only known her through football as well but never knew that she had a personal connection with Peach. One thing she knew that she could do with Salma was tell her anything and be assured that it would be kept between them. So for something as important as what happened just days ago, Peach felt like it would be right to tell her first. "I have some things to talk about with you, so I hope you don't mind me staying a while." She followed Salma inside to her small house where she lived alone. Here, she looked at every wall and every decoration. The girl was very creative with her house interior, showing off her intricate ideas and design mostly conducted by herself. Salma even had her own trophy cabinet as she was still an active footballer to Peach's knowledge. She had been in the business for more time than Peach had, especially with her retirement from the game over a year ago. She still had her own Mushroom Kingdom League trophy that she won with Turnpike United back in 2002. That was around when Peach had established a proper friendship with the Toad as she wanted her to be her first-choice goalkeeper for her team that she used to manage, though every year she was unable to convince her whilst still being charmed by her defensive play style. Peach also had her own trophies of the same league in a cabinet somewhere in the castle for the league in 2010 and in 2014, but in 2014 she had stepped down during that season and didn't feel as deserved of it. The two had always shared one craving interest in common and that was silverware of anything on the largest scale, whether it would be a Kingdom's Cup prior to 2010 or an MDC1, but unfortunately neither side were able to achieve it. Salma had been at Turnpike United ever since her debut and intended now to be a one-club player, but her continuation was uncertain. "How goes the league this season? Forgive me for being out of touch with it over the past few weeks, I've been so busy." Peach called out to Salma while being distracted from the trophies and being given the flashbacks of her time playing football in the many domestic league matches against Salma. The Royal Squadron versus Turnpike United, happening at least two times a year, every year as neither team were ever relegated in the past twelve years. Still, the two were great friends on or off the pitch.
"It looks like you lot are doing really well at least! Nobody seemed to have faith in the new one because nobody thought he could ever amount to the work you or Nangon did for the club, though I think Mushroomheath are going to run away with this one. They just don't seem to lose and I think they've not got any tough teams left to play. They've got Elhelm at the weekend but I don't see them dropping points to anyone." Peach arrived to the kitchen to see Salma preparing tea for her and herself. "As for us though… we're actually in a relegation battle. Either our team isn't what it used to be, or I've got to start considering retirement. I've been dropped a few times for this Izela person but she's had no clean sheets so far." Salma met with Peach at the kitchen table where the two sat and started on their tea together. She also presented Peach with the current league table on her phone. The Royal Squadron, despite no longer being affiliated to Peach, were currently sat in second, but with eight games remaining and a ten point gap from Mushroomheath, it didn't look like they were in any position to win the league. They were comfortably second at least, with Eve's End FC being in third five points below.
"It's looking good for us all right."
"Elhelm aren't going to do anything with Mushroomheath anyways." Salma changed the tab and brought up the current MDC1 and MDC2. "Mushroomheath could be doing the double this year if they win both the league and the MDC1. At the weekend Super Bell play Mushville too, and they're both in the MDC2 semi finals… against each other! This weekend they're playing against each other in the league, and then the next Tuesday is their MDC2 first leg! Look at Elhelm too, semi final against Zeltarc West. It's crowded at the top, so many matches to play." Seeing all of these charts and league tables reminded Peach of her days in football, whether it was being the manager of The Royal Squadron or actually being on the team. The MDC1 was what she had always dreamed of, but in the five instalments of the international tournament, she had never won the entire thing. Her best attempt was all the way back in 2011 where it looked like they were the best team in the world. Coming straight into the Years of Peace and with the world healing around her, they fell short to Diamond City, a team that they had actually met before and beaten in the group stage, because they came second in the group and made it all the way to the final in the other path. 2012 wasn't as good; a quarter final exit in the MDC1 at the hands of a team partially owned by Pauline, being New Donk United. That trophy eventually went to Mushroom City, a domestic rival. 2013 was no different, but a very strange year. Another quarter final exit saw another chance gone, this time at the hands of Ambozia, a team from the Sarasaland league who went on to become eventual finalists, losing to the most underdog team of them all, Olympic Marghosa. Yes, even the Marshi had more grand stage trophies than Peach's team. 2014 saw a quarter final curse being very consistent and it was at this point Peach retired from the main stage. Losing to Nightwood of the Wuhu league, despite them being the eventual winners of the tournament, but it was still, a quarter final exit. This year was the worst case of them all. While Peach wasn't affiliated with the tournament anymore, this year saw Nangon's departure as caretaker manager. They didn't even make it out of the group stage this year. Instead, they finished third in their group, falling short against Nightwood again and Sarasaland United, and even dropping points at home against tournament debutants the Eastfells. This saw them transfer to the MDC2 where they would eventually lose to Koopa City in the transfer round. At this point Peach wasn't thinking about it at all. This happened in January, around the same time as the first few Double Dash tournament races. Peach hadn't really thought about football since, and having being reminded about it all now was only slightly upsetting. Yes, she was never able to conquer the lands with her football team, but she made so many memories along the way and met so many people as if she was one of them. Not just her teammates, but rival teammates and managers, whether in the same league or across the land. Never in the past did Peach ever know that she would be going to places in the Résethal lands when back then it was considered unsafe but in the football environment everything was okay.
"I do miss this, genuinely." Peach looked up to Salma. "These were better times, and I wish one day I could go back to these better times. However, there is something really important I need to tell you, and it's bad news… really bad news." This now became difficult for her to speak about. Thinking about how she never thought she would ever have to say these words in a sentence. "I think Mario could be… gone… gone forever." Salma, immediately upon reacting, rushed her arm to Peach to comfort her. She put her hand on her leg and stroked her; she couldn't believe those words at first but Peach wouldn't say this for nothing. Peach's hands started to shiver, wanting more tea. Salma provided and stayed close to her, unsure what to say.
"How do you think this happened?" She wanted context. "Were you there?"
"I wasn't." Peach replied immediately with anxiety. Salma's face turned pale, and she gripped Peach's hand tightly.
"This is... unimaginable. Mario was part of the heart of the Mushroom Kingdom. Without him, everything must feel... lost. Heart failure." Peach nodded, trying to stop the tears developing in her eyes.
"I know, and now, without him, the kingdom could be starting to fall apart. Daisy has been trying to keep everything together, but it's been too much. Luigi can't help with the burden of losing his brother as well. I've not seen him since I've returned, and things are only getting worse. Crime is rising, people are leaving the capital, and... I don't know if we can ever go back to the way things were." Peach sighed. "I can only wish that we could."
Salma took a deep breath, trying to steady her own emotions. She couldn't dare to imagine how Peach was able to steady hers. "Peach, you've always been a symbol of hope and strength for the people. If anyone can guide them through this, it's you. You must find a way to bring the Kingdom together again, even in Mario's absence." The words were touching and motivating, but that was only one side of what Peach was now seeing.
"This is the problem." The tears continuously developing in Peach's eyes eventually overpowered her resistance in her own confidence. "They don't know about it yet, and yet, the Kingdom feels like the people already know. Imagine what happens when they to find out? I'll lose all of my credibility…" Her decreasing turnout was easily depicted through her time with a certain ambassador of the people. "One of my lifelong best friends, the Toad himself, has been distancing himself away from me, from Daisy. Toad's the best voice of the people, and yet he's been staying away from me and now he's not even confident in me. The rest will become like him soon enough. I can't let despair take over. I have to do everything I can to restore faith and order in the Mushroom Kingdom. For Mario, for everyone." For a few seconds she felt a brief spell of motivation within herself, but reality caught up very quickly. "Only that… this time, I think it's become too much." Peach took a deep, shaky breath. "I've been at the forefront for so long, but this... this is different. I'm not sure I have the strength or the will to lead through this new crisis. Daisy and I cannot be leaders if every other day we must cry over a new tragedy."
This was so much for Salma to take in. She felt immense amount of privilege as it seemed that from the way Peach was behaving that she was one of the first to ever hear about this. Notable names are dropping like flies. Toadbert a week ago, Mario the other day, potentially Éclair as well in the west. The great names of the southern Kingdoms stand at risk of being a target.
"You cannot put the burden of leadership on me." Salma suggested, whether it was for her or someone else, she referred to herself in the greater sense of her people. "Us Toads have lived like this for all our lives. This is in our nature; to have someone like you be the symbol of leadership, which has led us to live in such peace over the last few years." She desperately wanted Peach not to give up as the Queen of the Mushroom Kingdom, no matter how difficult it can be, but she could see in the way she was behaving – it was like she had never seen this side of her before, or that it wasn't a side that was meant to or should exist – and it was not perhaps suitable for a leader to be like this. "You can find a new leader but no Toad would be as prepared to stand in your stead as you are. It was evident in your leadership, even as a captain and a manager back in the days. You were always a challenge to play against because your team was always so well-organised. The Royal Squadron didn't know how well they had it in those years, that the Queen of the Mushroom Kingdom captained their side. Just think of the land as your team. We are all part of the same team, right?" Peach embraced Salma's words, putting a very down-to-Earth approach to such a massive matter. She didn't see the severity of the situation because she thought that she could conquer anything. It was a boon of confidence, which she could perhaps use when she sees the important people in the evening to address the nation.
"I will be making a speech to the Kingdom this evening. You must certainly tune in. Your words have touched me, and I believe the way you see me, like many others perhaps, will give me the confidence and inspiration to stay as your Queen." The words turned her emotional. She had gone through the cups of tea made for her by Salma and it wasn't the only thing warming her heart right now. She held her hand firmly and felt assured by her, hoping that the way Salma saw her was a better reflection on the people's view of her than Toad's.
Salma nodded, seeing the resolve returning to Peach's eyes. "Remember Peach, a true leader isn't someone who never falters. It's someone who finds the strength to rise again, even when the weight of the world feels unbearable. You have that strength. You've shown it time and time again. And the people believe in you because they see that strength. Don't take Toad's view as the view of the people. It's simply not true." The two smiled at each other as they drank some more and ate some biscuits. "Now…" Salma continued whilst still crunching on her food. "About Mario, what happened to him, do you know?"
Peach took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts before speaking. She knew this conversation would be difficult, just like mentioning his passing, but she trusted Salma and needed to share what she knew for the sake of how it could go for others in the land. "The truth is, Salma." Peach began, her voice steady but tinged with sadness, "I found out about Mario through Daisy. She was the one who saw him last through a body camera he was wearing. Mario was involved in a fight with a dangerous Dargovi Koopa named Raiyon. This Koopa is broad and large, similar to Bowser, but even more violent and dangerous as it seemed." Peach paused for a moment, trying to keep her composure as she continued. "Mario's camera was broken by Raiyon during his fight with him so we don't know what happened. When Daisy and the others arrived at the scene, Mario was gone. They found his cap and traces of his blood... It's not confirmed that he's dead, but he's missing, again, dead or alive is unknown, and Daisy... she believes he's gone, and I can't help but fear the worst."
Salma's expression turned grave as she listened, it seemed real enough to her. Her eyes were reflecting the shock and sadness of the news. She reached out, holding Peach's hand again firmly. "I'm so sorry, Peach. This is truly unbelievable."
Peach nodded, feeling the comfort of Salma's touch but also the reality that this couldn't do anything to bring him back. "It's been hard to accept. Mario has always been a pillar of strength for us, a hero who could overcome any challenge. But this... this feels different. He was my hero." She was scratching her skin in anxiety. "This is why I said it might be too much for me now. Everything already feels so different. I only found out about this just this morning because I was gone for a few days elsewhere… I was never able to give him what he always wanted. All he wanted to be was… mine." Her face was red and the tears were travelling down. She wasn't making any noise, but her emotions were evidently visible. Salma decided not to intervene with her, as she believed that it was best to let her have this moment to herself. She could only feel it as well, for she would also look up to Mario. She had met him before in the days where Mario played for Toad Town for a few years. Toad Town and Turnpike United were a local rivalry just like the Royal Squadron. They too had memories together. Thinking about that alone made Salma wonder about all of the other groups of people that would need to hear about this passing. Toad Town and the football club would be making a statement. The entire football association would be making a statement. Everything Mario was involved in would be reacting to this.
Salma eventually saw a moment where Peach stopped crying. "I know this is a very important figure, but his life is no different to anyone else's when it is gone from us. We lose lives every day… the Brigade soldiers, the Police, even friends and family. What we all have in common with these is that we move on. Life goes on. That's what makes us strong. It's what makes you strong. The will to move forward." Peach couldn't contain her emotions to the point where she gave up trying. She put on a smile as she looked back at Salma with her watery eyes.
"I've got to sort myself out. I've got other things to do before I head back to the capital. These biscuits were great; I hope I can operate on just them for the rest of the day as I've got a lot to do." She wiped her eyelids and got up, being ever so thankful for Salma's brief hospitality at her homestead. The two hugged again before Peach started to walk back through the floor, taking another look at Salma's dedicated trophy cabinet.
"You're welcome to come back at any time. Heck, we can even kick a ball around in the garden if it takes your mind off things." Salma followed, extremely appreciative of Peach's visit. It was great not just to see her again as the Queen of the Mushroom Kingdom, but as a former rival and as a friend.
"I'll hold you to that. Once I've sorted this out, I might even consider coming out of retirement!" She joked, getting a bit of humour into her day of depression.
"Where are you heading to next?" Salma asked as she reached for the door, opening it up for Peach.
"Another visit." She replied quickly, getting a boost of energy after being hit by the cool breeze from outside. "Just another of the few special people that I feel the need to tell about this before the general public knows." Salma nodded with acknowledgement.
"I feel very special then." She laughed.
"You are!" Peach went with her, heading now to her car. "I'll see you again someday."
Salma waved her away. "Bye for now!"
Peach closed her car door and just as Salma closed her front door, her brief expression of cheer had disappeared. It was back to the usual doom and gloom. She scraped her hand through her hair and tucked it behind her ear as she started up her car. This was going to be a long drive and thinking about it now, it would be better not to drive. It would take far too long. Peach decided instead to drive from Kazarga to Kinoko Street, a part of Mushroom City on the eastern side that had one of the largest police stations. There were many at work here, but this police station housed several helicopters. This would be her mode of transport now. She needed a Toad Patrol pilot to navigate her north, travelling significantly faster than a fast car.
Travelling into the city was easy at this time of the day, especially around these parts. Coming into Kinoko Street from the eastern side was smooth and there wasn't much congestion as this area wasn't that close to the centre of the city. Anywhere from Toad Town to the south to Mushville in the north, Kinoko Street to the east to the Sunflower Gate in the west was usually full of busy congestion. Her arrival to the Kinoko Street Patrol and Police Station was met with not much commotion but salutes by the loyal Toads that worked for her. None questioned her disappearance for a few days, and those who engaged with her when she asked for help did nothing but deliver what she wanted. Within just a few minutes of arriving, she saw herself onto a helicopter as personal transport heading north…
6:30PM
Bowser's Castle
It took her a couple hours to get here by helicopter. There was no way she was going to get here before the evening by car, let alone return back to the capital by nightfall. She knew now that she wasn't going to be able to make it back in time, so she knew that she would have to make the broadcast here after she was done with her business in this area. As they were flying past the forests of the dark lands and over the castle walls, she saw that the Koopas patrolling the walls were wearing different uniforms to what she was used to seeing here. These Koopas weren't wearing Bowser's uniform anymore. They were wearing something else that looked like an outfit of a unified group between Toads of the Mushroom Kingdom and former Koopas from Bowser's army. The lava of this land looked different as well. Almost all the lava she could see was dormant, inactive, quiet. Everywhere she looked she saw emptiness except for where there were patrolling Koopas. The place wasn't even as dark as it used to be whenever she was here. The clouds in this area were not exactly dark and gloomy. She could even see some of the sky. The lack of strength here was evident in her surroundings.
The helicopter landed on a pad guarded by a few aligned Koopas and Toads next to a small base camp they had established here to keep watch of the castle's surrounding area. Here, she was taken by a Koopa officer, one who was a trusted member of Bowser's former army that is now serving both purposes. The journey now would be quite a long and quiet one. She could tell that they were all going from the pad and base camp to Bowser's throne room. Everywhere on the way was pretty much empty, only she saw Iggy walking past on the journey.
"Hey. Peach Toadstool." She heard him call out her name. Debating whether to interact or not, she eventually caved in and turned her head, acknowledging him. "Thank you for showing mercy." He said. Peach smiled back at him and gave him the brief nod before turning around and resuming the journey to the throne room. Iggy awkwardly walked away, not fully sure as to why she was here. He knew that he wasn't allowed to attack anyone else that was in the castle bounds. All of the Koopalings knew this.
She eventually arrived to the throne room. It was large and still looking majestically intimidating, but it being almost completely empty reminded her of the authority she now has over this place. At the other end of the room was Bowser, sat atop his large, spiked seat of a throne, and just to his left was the Koopalings' uncle, sitting in a makeshift large seat. They both stood up as they saw Peach enter the room, still being escorted by the Toads and Koopas. Both Bowser and his brother were unarmed, but they stood tall before Peach as she walked to the stairs. There they were: the tan King Bowser and the darker green Koopa on her right.
"This visit comes most surprising." Bowser addressed. "I've not impeded on you once, Toadstool. Have I or any of my children done something wrong?"
"Not to my knowledge, no." Peach smirked, anxiously annoyed at the lack of privacy at the moment. "I would like the room to ourselves, and that means just the two of us." Bowser first looked to his left, giving the nod to the uncle Koopa.
"You heard the King. To the outside you terrible Toads." The uncle called down from aside the throne, pointing to the many doors out of the throne room. He then looked at Bowser as he too started to leave. "Don't be too tough on her, bilge-brain." Bowser chuckled as everyone but Peach departed from the throne room. His humour cleared up after the privacy was now in place.
"Right then, what is it? I never thought the Mushroom Kingdom would have time for me anymore." Peach waited until she had ascended the stairs to the throne, and she did so slowly. Before speaking, she also walked over to the seat that was placed next to him, for his brother's stead. She made herself comfortable in it and then talked.
"I'm going to start with the most important matter to address. Mario is most likely dead." She spoke monotonously, and this even surprised Bowser. He leaned his head back and up, raising an eyebrow, wondering whether to believe it or not.
"Well it wasn't-."
"I know it wasn't you." Peach quickly silenced him. "We know the name of who did it, and we know where he comes from." Bowser leaned forward again, curious as to the name. "Does the name Raiyon ever ring a bell to you?" She looked at him straight in the eyes. A sense of fear was already on his mind and Peach was trying hard to read his facial expressions. It seemed like there would be a lead here. He took a deep breath and eventually looked back down at her.
"It does, but not with a smile on my face. This reminds me of a time I would rather not remember, but for this sake… I must."
Peach examined Bowser's face more. It wasn't quite an expression of guilt or anything leading to the idea that he had anything to do with Mario's disappearance, but he knew that there was more to Raiyon than what Peach knew already. "So do you know him, or only know of him?" Bowser exhaled.
…
1993
Bowser was reminded of a different time. For him this was his time of Peace, right before everything went to catastrophe. Back in this period of time, the Koopalings were actual kids to him, and the authority of the Koopa family did not lie with him at this time. He was invited far across the lands to an area near the other end of the mountain range from the castle complex. This was an area long forgotten to him, but he remembered not the location but what it looked like. Invited for what must have felt like a family get together, he was sitting with his brother: the Koopaling's uncle, and another familiar Koopa father. They were reclining on large sun-loungers, all with their shells off, taking in the sun and having drinks together. They were in what looked like an apartment complex with a cool swimming pool and just below them was the beach inside a cove. Bowser's happiness in this period of time probably peaked on this day, seeing all of the young Koopalings playing around the area and having fun with their friends. There were so many of them, not just the Koopalings and Junior but others from another family.
"It was a privilege for you to invite us here today." Bowser and his brother both looked at the other Koopa lounging with them, all three of them feeling like they had the whole world at their feet. "This is an amazing place you have bought or developed here. It's just a wonder to me why you wanted to move so far away from the Kingdom." When Bowser looked across to the Koopa, he noticed that he had a cot right next to his lounger; a small play area for a baby Koopa to play in whilst still being right next to him to care for her. Before the Koopa could reply back to him, the baby Koopa was in need of attention, and at the same time, Lemmy and Iggy were running around the pool area trying to push each other in. There was Ludwig also in the pool along with one of the other Koopa's own children. The rest of the Koopa kids were down on the beach at the cove.
"Careful where you're walking, slippery kids!" Their uncle called out. "You don't wanna slip and hurt yourself!" Both he and Bowser watched as the Koopa from the other family grabbed hold of Iggy's leg and pulled him into the pool, creating a big splash. The uncle looked concerned but at least they were all laughing. Lemmy jumped into the pool soon after.
"Sorry, I think she needed some milk." The adult Koopa turned back to Bowser and his brother. "What were you saying, why I moved so far? Well, I can only in return ask why you aren't doing the same. You know what's going to happen to these lands soon. Have you not seen what's happening in the centre? They're heading straight for the Kingdom. Your fate there will be worse than the humans of the south. Your father is going absolutely crazy with power." Bowser was not convinced enough. His brother was not convinced at all.
"We can't just abandon our dad like that." The uncle said back, despite not being the one addressed. Bowser nodded with agreement though, seeing to the Koopa that they had to unfortunately disagree.
"Well, we can agree to disagree. It is not my business to interfere with your wishes." The Koopa had another sip, trying to take his mind off it.
Bowser tried to do the same. "We should be taking in the moment instead. Besides, Choban, you've not yet introduced everyone to me. It's been so long since I've seen any of them!" He got up from his seat and walked over to the cot, looking down at the baby Koopa.
"Look at how cute she is." The uncle smiled and leaned in. "Who's a little cutie-pie?" Miraculously, he didn't make the baby Koopa cry. Bowser and the uncle waited for Choban to introduce the baby to them. "How many is it now, six? You've still got a bit of catching up to do."
"What's her name?" Bowser asked Choban.
"This one here is Nidelle. She is the most beautiful out of all of them at this age." Choban stroked the baby Koopa girl, giving her the toys in the cot to play around with. At the same time, some of the Koopalings and other kids were still playing in the pool.
"That one in the pool, that's Sheridan, right? I remember him." Bowser noticed as they all started to walk over to the low rocky wall before the steps down to the beach.
"Yes. My second child. Almost twelve." Bowser then looked down at the beach and saw three different groups of Koopas. There were the girls playing in the sand near to towards the beach on the near front. This included Wendy and two of Choban's. "Down there with your daughter is Vecheva and Karisa. Nine and seven." He then pointed to the part of the beach where there were five Koopas playing around with a volleyball. Four of Bowser's and one of Choban's. There was Larry, Roy, Morton and Junior, playing with a fifth. "Down there with the rest of yours is Bertram. He's just turned six."
"He's quite big for a six year old. He's catching up fast on Morton, look at him!" Bowser admired this one's look. He was clearly better than the rest of them at volleyball.
"He's a strong one, Bertram." Choban smiled, happy to see them all having fun. All of them were clearly comfortable playing down at the beach as none of them were wearing their shells. Bowser then looked further up the cove to the rocky parts on the far front. There he saw one Koopa sitting alone. This one was bigger than the rest and considerably older. He remembered this one too, vaguely…
"That one over there, what's his name again?"
"Raiyon. He's seventeen, though he feels much older." Choban replied to Bowser.
"No kidding." The uncle looked down and spoke. "He looks like he could pass off as your brother."
"Is there a reason he's on his own down there?" Bowser showed a bit of concern for him. The Koopa was throwing rocks into the sea, alone, and not willing or wanting to interact with the others playing volleyball.
"He just has his own interests, I think." Choban replied as Bowser watched the Koopa get up and dive into the sea. Looking back at the volleyball, Bertram slammed the ball down at Roy causing him to deflect it far away and out of their playing field, landing at the shore and rolling into the sea. It looked like Larry was the one to be instructed to retrieve it as the ball was slowly going further out from the beach.
"Well if he doesn't want to hang out with our kids he doesn't have to, right?" The uncle turned around and looked back to Choban, checking on the kids at the pool as well. Choban rushed forward as Nidelle in the cot appeared to be in distress.
"I need to bring out the maids. They'll take care of her." Bowser and his brother walked back to the sun loungers with Choban and watched as the Koopa maids went to take Nidelle back inside to be nurtured properly. After that was dealt with, the three went back to their sun loungers, getting another round of drinks served to them. Everything about this place felt euphoric to Bowser. It was the perfect getaway home from the castle and a great place to go to for a holiday. The kids were enjoying themselves, they had new friends to play with, and he for once felt stress-free.
"Papa! Kur është darka e madhe?" Bowser overheard Sheridan calling out for his dad in the pool, speaking in old Koopish. His accent was very fluent, almost like it was his first language.
"It won't be ready for a while." Choban replied to him in the common, new Koopish tongue. "…And don't speak like that when around your other family. It's very rude."
Sheridan felt anxious, replying back with what now sounded like a broken accent. "Sorry."
"Forgive Sheridan." Choban spoke more quietly to Bowser and his brother. "The boy loves to educate himself, even at such a young age."
"I don't blame him for it. It's always nice to continue such traditions." Bowser could only agree with the boy's desires. It was something he wished he could have done when he was younger, but now felt so out of time to try and learn it all.
"I say we get with the times, you know?" The uncle butted in, making Choban laugh.
"You're a funny one." He smiled. "I like that."
A few seconds later, while they were happy drinking with each other, the three all heard a loud scream coming from down at the beach, alerting everyone else in the pool as well as the three on the sun loungers. They rushed over to the top of the steps and looked down on the beach. One of the girls was screaming as the Koopas down at the beach rushed to the sea. The volleyball was somewhat retrieved, but it looked like Larry was far out at sea and struggling to stay above the surface.
"He's drowning." Choban gasped as Bowser and the uncle rushed down the steps, heading on to the beach and rushing forward.
"Out of the way!" Bowser called for his other sons and Bertram to move out of the way as they were watching Larry struggle. All of them were so nervous and scared that they dared not step in the sea to rescue him, thinking some sea creature was pulling him down. Wendy was crying and Karisa and Vecheva tried to protect her, preventing her from looking out to the sea. Bowser rushed into the sea and started swimming towards Larry, almost fully underwater. It took him at least ten seconds but by the time Bowser arrived, Larry re-emerged from beneath the surface and swam desperately over towards Bowser, climbing on to his shoulders. "It's ok. It's ok. I've got you." Bowser kept Larry held firmly as he started to swim back to the beach shore. Seconds later, Raiyon re-emerged from the surface, just in the same location where Larry was drowning.
"It was Raiyon!" Larry pointed back to the spot in the sea but as Bowser turned around, Raiyon had already gone back underwater, quickly swimming away and underneath the surface.
"I don't see him." Bowser only turned around for a brief second and went back to swimming. As he could start to walk on the sea floor close to the beach, he allowed Larry to swim back to the uncle and the rest of the Koopa kids that all came down to the beach.
"He was there, King Dad." Roy and Morton both admitted to Bowser that they saw what they saw. All of the kids were afraid and nervous now, unsure whether to still play volleyball. The event that most of them just witnessed took all of their fun away.
"Right. Everyone up and inside. Remember to wash your feet." Choban clenched his fists in anger. "No more beach time! Nobody gets past the gate to the steps!" He then looked back to Bowser and the uncle. "Promise me you'll get them all clean and inside. I'll deal with this one." He too believed the rest about what caused this incident. In the distance, he saw Raiyon finally emerge from the sea, climbing slowly back onto the rocks at the far front of the sea. Choban stomped across the sand to reach the rocky part, waiting for Raiyon. That was all Bowser saw from that incident as he had to bring everyone else back inside and have them wash their feet with the garden hose.
That was also the last time Bowser saw Raiyon, and he would never forgive him about what he did to Larry, even if it was as a joke as the Koopa supposedly claimed through rumour of his siblings. Choban never told him what he did to him either, as it became too personal between the two of them.
Present Day
Bowser roughly explained the memory to Peach, recalling it as best as he could. Whether there were some inaccuracies or not, he made it clear to Peach that Raiyon was someone who was violent from a very young age, and not only that, but he was also a bully.
"I knew from that moment that he was a vile Koopa. I have vague memories from the time before when I last met with his father, back when there was only him and Sheridan was just a baby. He's older than Junior or any of my children, but there was definitely something wrong with him." He said back to Peach, feeling a lot of shame after telling her the story of it all.
"Well…" Peach could only agree with him on it based off of accounts of his actions from others. "…I can see why he would go as far to potentially kill Mario. What I'm most puzzled about is how he ended up in Mushroom City, and why he is there. His intention surely wasn't to kill Mario. That's at least what I know from what Daisy and Luigi were trying to do."
"Is this about what happened after Rainbow Road?" He asked Peach, wondering about it.
"I don't even think he was involved in that. I just feel like he was there using the same methods of course, but… for his own reasons." Bowser pondered on the thought of no longer having Mario as an adversary. He never really hated Mario. In fact, he respected him as a rival. Whether Mario saw the same with him was irrelevant. What matters is that he felt very bad in knowing that he was actually gone. One person that Bowser did actually hate with a passion was Raiyon. Knowing that he possibly killed his biggest adversary, for reasons unknown, only fuelled him with more hate for him.
"I'm assuming you're wishing the worst for him. Worse than death." Bowser could see the small thin line of rage that was visible from Peach's facial expressions. "I can at least tell you that to my knowledge, he still lives in Dargo. So if you do want him dead, then there is the place to go, but we must all learn that even today that place is dangerous."
"I feel like the root cause of all of my problems nowadays is with there." The both of them went quiet for a few seconds while Bowser recalled another memory from the same day. It was when his time there was over. "I know this is unexpected, but I need your help, Bowser. You have connections, knowledge of the darker corners of our world. I need to find Raiyon and bring him to justice for what he's done to Mario." Peach interrupted his train of thought. She now knew of Raiyon's father and how Bowser had some sort of connection to him, though it was unclear of any of their whereabouts nowadays, but it would most presumably be in Dargo.
Bowser's expression hardened after thinking about the memory, a mix of anger and determination flashing in his eyes. "Mario was my rival, but he was also a worthy adversary. His death is a blow to all of us. Raiyon's actions cannot go unpunished."
…
At the nightfall of the time spent at the holiday home, it was time to go. Unfortunately a lot sooner than expected, but the turn of events throughout the afternoon led to Bowser and the Koopalings unable to stay any longer. They weren't using any ships at this point in time, so Bowser and the Koopalings' uncle used two trucks and drove all the way across the foothills of the mountain range all the way across, from one end to another. This took almost a whole day, and it was soon time for them to go back. The Koopalings' uncle took some of them and started the journey early, but after the guards and maids of the holiday home kept all of the other kids away, Bowser was left with Choban in the home as the night turned dark. Junior, Roy and Morton were left in the car and told that he wouldn't be long.
"How did it go with your children?" Bowser asked Choban, still in disbelief. The two were standing in the kitchen area with all the lights turned off. They could only see silhouettes of each other, and everything felt so ominous to him. Shadows played on the walls, and the atmosphere felt thick.
Choban's silhouette shifted slightly, his posture rigid. He hesitated before answering and his voice barely above a whisper. "It was... difficult. Raiyon doesn't respond well to punishment. There was... resistance. Not in the way I would like it either. He does this to the other kids sometimes, but it's got to the point where they've gotten used to it."
Bowser was anxious as to what more could have happened at sea. If not for the screaming of the girls then perhaps Larry could have suffered a fate much worse. "Do you at least know why Raiyon thought it would be funny to do this?" He asked with a voice tinged with anxiety.
"It wasn't even as a joke." Choban replied from what he remembered being told. "That's what he said. He didn't even deny his actions. He just stated that he did it because of you." Bowser's pupils enlarged. He felt a bit of unease in his mind and genuine shock, wondering why this might be the case. How dare Choban side with someone who tried to drown his son?
"What could I have possibly done?" Bowser raised his voice in the darkness; one silhouette to another, with only the rising moon from outside dimly lighting the surroundings.
Choban got closer, speaking reluctantly. "His actions were uncalled for, I will admit, though he raised a very good point earlier. Your interests with your father and the Koopa Kingdom are not the way to go. You must give it up, or your family and mine may end up on two different sides of an inevitable war."
Bowser's mind raced to the thought that mere politics could split a potentially favourable bond between two of the wealthiest Koopa families of this generation. "So, you're willing to let this escalate over petty politics? I will not have our children be at strife over our own decisions! This is about the future of our families being at the top of all things in these lands!" His anger was now evident and visible to Choban, but he was no stranger to such confrontations.
"Then change your stance and this won't. You can see what your father wants. He will drive this Koopa Kingdom to the ground and he'll go down with it. You do not have to follow him in that."
"I will not abandon my father's pursuits." Bowser threatened Choban. "It was you who made the wrong decision to desert him. Whose side are you really on? The… the side of the shadows?" Choban's face hardened in the dim light. He watched Bowser as he clenched his fists, his mind a storm of emotions. Bowser looked back at him with confrontation, the weight of their shared history and the potential future bearing down on both of them.
"You will have no success here." Choban almost whispered. "You dare threaten me in my own home? A i hidhni poshtë traditat tuaja për ndonjë formë të re tiranie? Go, now. Go at mercy and never return, before I change my mind." The words hit Bowser like a punch to the gut. He stood there for a moment, the weight of the world pressing down on him, before he turned and walked out of the kitchen. It was over between him and Choban, and Raiyon seemingly getting away with attempted murder. The Koopalings waited anxiously in the car, sensing the tension in the air. As Bowser walked out, he noticed that Bertram was still hanging by the car. He was talking with them until he arrived, but seeing Bowser made him nervous. The Koopa anxiously ran back inside, daring not to even speak to Bowser. That was his last ever interaction with that family. As Bowser climbed into the driver's seat, he took one last look at the holiday home, a place once filled with happy memories now tainted by conflict. It was a perfect getaway that felt like a place he wished he could visit often especially now that he used to think that Choban's family and his could bond and help shape the future despite the upcoming unrest in the lands. Unfortunately, the divide between the families had become too much, and there was no turning back. He started the engine, the roar of the truck echoing in the quiet night, and drove away, with the darkness swallowing them whole. The drive back to the Koopa Kingdom would last the entire night…
…
He doesn't know exactly what happened in conversation between Raiyon and Choban that night but somehow it made his own father believe his lies. The two were as stubborn as each other and would never be able to come to an agreement on where to stand regarding the impending Mushroom Wars, which inevitably led to their divide, and thus a domino effect to how Dargo is today. It was ruled by that family now, and labelled the most dangerous place in the lands by everywhere except the place itself and surrounding areas.
"I wouldn't be surprised if they all grew up to be just like the eldest son. The pure hatred I have for Raiyon alone is enormous." Bowser looked back at Peach after their long period of silence from telling her the story. "I would have never done what he did to Mario, not in a million years."
It was a strange feeling. She never thought that she would ever feel some comfort and reassurance from the same person who used to capture her often for political gain in the south. Then again, were they really enemies if they went karting and played football against each other every other weekend?
"Your words are surprising, to say the least, but they are somewhat reassuring." Peach smiled at him. "You have my thanks for that. I know that if Mario were still around today that he would still dislike you, but if he knew about Raiyon before what happened to him, I'm sure his opinion on you would change."
"I would like to avenge him." Bowser spurted out, surprising Peach again. "Mario was my adversary, not his, and he took him away from this world." She looked at him and could tell that he was being completely serious about this. "You will have my full support in your pursuits with that place. I'm willing to tell you all that I know about that land and that family. They are probably the worst Koopas in the world." Peach felt a little emotional on the inside, the chemicals rushing through her body. Yes, this was her arch-nemesis saying this to her, but something about his support really got to her. Even her former worst enemies would look the other way from strife and come to terms with a new common enemy. It was all of her problems at once. The ongoing threat from the north, Mario's passing, the fragility of the current Toad population mindset, it was all because of the Dargovi influence, and she could only wish that she knew about this sooner.
She didn't know what to say or what to make of it. These were confusing times clearly, and to have this sort of unification was most strange. She knows Bowser, enough to trust him and take him for his word. After all, he went with her decisions that lasted months. Everything about the past two months that wasn't directly his idea, but he played out his trial and won, and hasn't done anything to her since. "I… I thank you so much. It doesn't feel real that we could actually become… acquaintances. Mario would have never made it so, just as you said, but this is for his sake. This is for him." Peach got up from her seat and walked slowly down the steps, eventually turning slowly around to look at Bowser one last time. "Make sure the green one knows about this. I will make it so that you're able to provide me any information where necessary. I must depart, for I have some announcements to make to the Kingdom, but whatever we do about this between you and me, we do it in secrecy. The people do not know about this yet, and I don't know how to tell them just yet, but when I do, the world will be ready to see how truly evil the Dargovi are." The two exchanged one final nod before Peach turned around again to be escorted out of the throne room. Her business within the castle walls was finished. It was now time for her to return back to the capital, though it was getting late and an announcement had to be made. It was approaching ten at night. This would be the perfect time for an evening message to the Mushroom Kingdom. Luckily, Koopa City wasn't too far away, and a production team would be bound to be there.
10:00PM
Koopa City
The last destination of her journey was an improvised one, but a place needed in time for the announcement. She was able to find a news team to allow her to get herself on a channel to broadcast to the world. Every other news channel redirected their outputs to Peach, here inside an empty, private room within one of the buildings of the city.
"On in three." The Koopa behind the camera readied her in to the broadcast. Peach quickly cleared her throat and remained firm with her posture, ready to begin.
…
"My deepest friends, my people, the people of the Mushroom Kingdom…" Her speech was slow, but intended to allow her to think more and be sincere about it. "I must first apologise for my absence over these past few days. Not just up until now, but briefly last week as well. These recent events have taken a toll on us all and sometimes even someone like me… who is no different to any one of you really… needs to take some time away to clear their mind. I deeply apologise for any worry this has caused. As of now, I will return to my services for the Mushroom Kingdom, to serve and protect the people. I know confidence in recent days has been low, but we are going through a great period of transition, which unfortunately with regret leads me to have to announce a few other things." She knew that from this point on, whoever was watching would soon find out. A broadcast to the entire land could mean millions were watching. "I must first let the Kingdom know that…" She began to hesitate on the subject, unsure of how to word it and what to start with first. "During a special operation held in Webcapstow only nights ago…" She gulped. It had to come out now. It was too late to go back. "We have managed to find the cause of the incidents on Rainbow Road. Several additional arrests have been made on those involved and we are on the hunt for one of those involved in the massacre. Understand that the Toad Patrol are to be informed of their new duties in pursuit of this criminal. To keep the business without interference with the public, we have decided not to release the name of the criminal." She couldn't say it. She just simply couldn't say it. Her mind became a blur despite knowing that she was still in front of the camera and being broadcasted live across the entire Mushroom Kingdom. "With my… unanticipated leave of absence over the past couple of days… it had meant that the operation just previously aforementioned taking place in Webcapstow, Mushroom City, was conducted solely out of my part and orchestrated by other Royal officials along with the Toad Brigade. While it was successful in its task, and giving us the bigger picture of the threats to the Mushroom Kingdom, I must also address a matter I'm sure most of us will find very upsetting…" Her nerves were visible on the screens. She made it so that this could no longer be avoided. The public needed to know now.
…
"…The department of royal affairs has confirmed that our beloved Mario has gone missing. The Toad Brigade and Patrol have united in search for him after he was last seen in pursuit of the criminal from Webcapstow. We will all be doing our best to find him and to bring him home, to catch the criminal and to finally bring peace to the Mushroom Kingdom like it always used to be. Do not fear, my beloved citizens, I am here again to restore order while this goes on. To all those who are worried about anything, know that I stand with you. Always." She gave one last nod to the camera. "Thank you."
All the production team were briefly in shock, but this soon turned to mourning and sorrow. The news they just witnessed in front of them came by surprise but after some time digesting it all in, they knew that this was a very sad day, finally understanding Peach's emotions she let out to the camera.
"I would like to leave now." Peach was ready to wrap everything up here and head back to the capital for the night by helicopter. Everyone around her was either confused or upset as the production team closed down for the evening, letting all normal programs resume on their channels. The journey back to the capital was going to be a difficult one for her as the time spent in the helicopter was all time spent alone. There was nobody she knew well enough to confer with about her decision, and she wasn't able to see how the Kingdom felt upon the immediate reaction. So many questions filled her mind throughout most of the first half of the journey back, which would go on to take another hour at least. Will the people take this well? Do they believe he's not just missing but in fact dead? Will the people take to the streets? How will the other Kingdoms fare when finding out about this? Will they do the same? The worst questions that came to mind towards the halfway mark of the journey were dreaded thoughts like what if the Dargovi heard about this somehow? What about the rest of the Résethal population? What of the Hostiles? This was another moment in time where she was confined to either limited space or time and unable to do anything about it with actions. The night was getting late, and when she gets back she knew she would have to sleep immediately. She had already been up for what felt like at least eighteen hours due to the time zone difference, and a lot of her time in the day was spent travelling. She had been in the air for far too long today, whether it was by helicopter going down the Mushroom Kingdom, or by transatlantic plane travel. She was getting overtired and wanted to act immediately. She couldn't even sleep on the helicopter as it was too loud and bumpy. What was worse for her was that most of the castle didn't yet know about her return, so not only would she have to go to sleep and wait for the next morning, but most of the morning after would involve having to engage with the council, though she would feel most assured that they would assist her in her going straight back to work. The only problem was the reminder that there was no Mario to assist her now, and likely no Luigi either as he was still in mourning. There would be no Toad to assist her on Department of the People matters and also no Muji, for he was now strictly in the disputed area. Archbarn and Eoréc were also no longer in Mushroom City to her knowledge. Whether they joined Muji in returning back to the areas near Aypyidaw to resume Red Martyr-like duties was unknown to her, as technically they didn't have any reason to still pursue it anymore. This led to Daisy being her only real advisor. While there were Toadasha and Tranko on the council, those two alone wouldn't be able to do much help. Toadasha is only good with the financial side of things, and Tranko's busy most of the time with Toad Brigade stuff anyway. There needed to be more people on the council and actually politically competent people too, unlike Toadheim, as she always thought that he could be nothing more than a glorified surveillance worker.
March 18 – Midnight
Somewhere in Western Résethal
Everywhere here was dark. The journey of a Koopa in his truck came to an end as he reached his destination. The sky was cloudy and not very clear, but some stars could be seen. This area was most developed and most complex. A mega-structure almost the size of Toad Town and the castle but all majestically built up from wall to wall, and this Koopa parked just outside it, not perfectly either. Going to the back of the truck, he took out some of his belongings, which included a body now thrown into a large sack. The Koopa ascended the structure and travelled up various flights of stairs, his path lit up only by torches and the moon outside. He eventually became outside again now that he had passed the buildings along the walls. Here he was at a walkway structured like a bridge, which led to a much larger building. It was the only place he had yet to cross to get where he wanted to go, only there was one person in his way. It was another Koopa, a younger, female Koopa, just over half his age, and she stood firmly but alone on the other end, waiting for him to approach. The first Koopa slowly walked with the sack with the body in it and stopped a third of the way across. His exchange with the female Koopa was entirely in Old Koopish.
"Let me enter the building, for I wish to speak to my father." He stood firmly, holding the sack behind his back making sure the shell didn't tear it by accident.
"A shaman brings a curse upon the world." The female Koopa replied in Old Koopish, speaking rather cryptically and confusing the other Koopa.
"I'm not here to play with your tricks and games, Nidelle. Let me inside… or I will destroy you." The Koopa was confused, seeing the younger female Koopa's face and surprised as to why she was looking almost upset. "Father must know what I have. That is all." The other Koopa, named Nidelle, remained in front of the door to the main building, reaching for her wand within her shell, but remaining resilient to her brother's behaviour and intentions.
"The firstborn is not welcome, waive this message and be met with a father busy with his aides." She started to hesitate as her brother slowly walked more and more across the bridge.
"I will waive." He walked a little more but eventually stopped, just over halfway across. "But I will wait."
The wind picked up over the course that went on for several minutes. Both Nidelle and her brother stood atop the high walkway until after some more time the doors to the main building opened. Out came a few Koopas that were on their way to other parts of the mega-structure, all intimidated at the sight of the Koopa in wait and quickly went past him, daring not to look him in the eyes. The Koopa looked down and watched as they all squeezed past him on the walkway bridge. When they were all gone and back inside the other building, he looked one last time towards Nidelle, who was still anxiously waiting beside the doors.
"May your mind forever be covered in darkness, Raiyon." Nidelle said her last words to him as he walked the rest of the way across the walkway bridge. She could only watch him anxiously as he opened up the doors and carried the sack inside the main building. He said nothing toward her as he went inside. He hardly knew her and yet they were somehow so close but it felt like nothing to him.
The room as well was almost entirely in darkness. Only a fireplace was alit at the other end of the great hall that this main building was. Sitting by the fire was the one Koopa he had wanted to see this whole time. His father. The one to revoke him from all the wrong everyone else saw in him. This gift he supposedly had in this sack could be just the thing to make every bad thing seen of him by his family be undone.
"Father?" He now spoke in New Koopish, the common tongue, and his voice echoed through the chamber, reaching his father sat in the chair facing the fire from all sides. Raiyon carried the sack all the way across the hall despite hearing nothing back from his father. "I have something for you." He stopped as he saw his father stand up. He watched as he turned around and faced him, his body being a complete shadow as it blocked most of the light from the fireplace.
"You have disappeared for so long. You have abandoned your family but still take our name. You took me for granted, and you expect to just walk into these walls and be welcomed back? There is nothing in the world that can make you change. You will always be who you are, and there is nothing that can change this." The silhouette stood and watched Raiyon slowly approach him. Raiyon eventually stopped again and waited for his father's next words. He said nothing more, but what Raiyon could see in the silhouette was a tilted head, nodding at him and acknowledging the sack. He was at least given a chance by his father. Raiyon knew that it was now time to prove himself to his father and to show him this great accomplishment. Raiyon threw the sack down onto the floor in front of his father, and pulled it up, leaving what was put inside of it to remain on the floor.
The corpse.
EOC: Here we go. Another in the books.
See you next chapter!