In a quaint and little home among the hills of the Mushroom Kingdom, two of its greatest heroes laid dormant. The small alarm clock on the bedside desk ticked but the ticking hand could barely be heard over the snores of the two brothers.
Tick. Tick. Tick. BRRRRRR! "AH!" They both yelped as they fell off their beds.
Mario stood up and smacked the snooze button of the alarm clock. He let out a deep yawn as he stretched his arms towards the ceiling. He smacked his lips as he rubbed his eyes. His brother, Luigi stretched his arms on the floor and then stood up alongside his brother.
"Well, time to start the day, eh Luigi," Mario said. "I guess, but a couple more hours of sleep wouldn't hurt," Luigi said. "I hear you Lou, but adventure is calling us," Mario said as he scoured his drawer like a treasure chest, throwing out clothes. "Aw man, I just organized that," Luigi said.
A green shirt and blue overalls landed on Luigi's face. Luigi took them off of his face and found that Mario was already putting his brown boots on.
"Let's-a go Luigi!" Mario rejoiced. "How did you get changed so fast?" Luigi asked. "That's not important right now Lou!" Mario said.
Mario kicked down the door and jumped into the air and he posed as if he was frozen midair. He landed on his feet and looked around to see the fresh and bright day. The hills at the horizon glistened with the bright yellow rays of the sun. Luigi jumped out with one foot as he put on his boot.
"So what's the plan today Mario?" Luigi asked. "I don't have a clue Luigi, but today just feels like a great day," Mario said. "Oh, well how about we head down to the Mushroom Kingdom?" Luigi asked. "Sounds good Lou," Mario said with a thumbs up.
Mario and Luigi headed their way to the giant castle on the horizon. They found themselves walking down a path in the forest just outside the castle's walls. The forest was nice and cool. The leaves of the trees brustled against one another with a small wind. Mario found a single leaf on the ground and let it go as it danced with the wind.
"You know Lou, sometimes it's just the tranquilities of life that get to you which makes it all worth it," Mario said. "Whoa, very existential Mario," Luigi said. "Well Lou, sometimes you just gotta question why we are here," Mario said. "Why is that Mario?" Luigi asked. "Well I can't say anything for sure. It just kinda gives you a moment to ponder and then that's when you'll find what gives your life meaning," Mario said. "Very insightful Mario," Luigi said. "Hey what can I say? I have my moments," Mario said.
A rustle in the bushes could be heard which made Mario and Luigi halt in place. They looked at each other with curiosity. Mario nodded as Luigi's entire body shook. Mario slowly approached the bush, extending his arm out with every step he took. Suddenly something jumped from the bushes and landed on Mario. "AH!" Luigi screamed as he covered his eyes. "Whoa! Whoa, settle down Yoshi!" Mario said. "WA OH!" Yoshi screamed with delight.
Yoshi jumped off Mario. His expression was bright and delightful as he danced around in a circle.
"Yoshi is so excited to see friends!" Yoshi said. "Yoshi, what are you doing in the middle of the forest?" Mario asked. "Well Yoshi thought Yoshi would visit friends in the big castle! Yoshi just got very excited to see friends again!" Yoshi said. "Are you alive Mario?" Luigi asked who still covered his eyes. "Yeah Lou, I'm alright. It was just Yoshi," Mario said as he rolled his eyes with a smile.
Luigi opened his eyes.
"Oh phew, I thought you were eaten," Luigi said. "Yoshi would never eat best friends!" Yoshi said. "Yeah, I know that," Luigi said. "So Yoshi, wanna join us?" Mario asked. "Yoshi says yes! Yoshi says yes!" Yoshi said. "Alrighty then. Let's-a go," Mario said. "Wah oh!" Yoshi said. "Coming!" Luigi said.
As the trio continued, at a nearby garbage dump, something was brewing. The sky above the dump was covered by a thick smog created by flaming tires. Beneath a makeshift shack created by rotten and dirty wood, two figures stood. One who was wide and short, another who was lanky and tall. The two brothers, Wario and Waluigi.
"Wario, why are we here?" Waluigi asked. "Well Waluigi, don't you remember how we lost all our money?" Wario asked. "Oh yeah. You bet all our shares of WarioWare in the casino," Waluigi said. "Yeah, and you got that lawyer and we lost in court trying to get WarioWare back, and we lost even more money," Wario said. "Yeah, and you sprung for this place and now we have negative $0.08 in our savings account and our checking account combined," Waluigi said. "I don't even know how that is even possible," Wario said. "Wah, our lives suck," Waluigi said. "They do indeed Waluigi," Wario said.
Wario stood up and walked out of the shack. He looked around and found an old rusty metal pipe.
"Oh Waluigi, we can play our favorite game. Toss the Pipe," Wario suggested. "Oh yeah. We played that as a kid. I remember giving you so many concussions," Waluigi said. "Oh yeah. Those were the days. I'll start then," Wario said.
Wario bent the pipe like a boomerang and he threw it. Then it began coming back directly towards him.
"Uh oh," Wario said.
Wario dived and duck as the pipe flew above him and it smacked through a column of the shack and the entire thing shook.
"NO!" Waluigi yelled.
The entire shack fell on top of Waluigi and once the dust cleared Waluigi was above a few pieces of wood.
"Well, there goes our home. I told you playing that game was a bad idea, Waluigi," Wario said. "My idea?! You threw the pipe!" Waluigi yelled. "Yeah! After you peer pressured me!" Wario yelled.
Waluigi stood up and the two brothers walked towards each other, furious at one another,
"This was clearly your fault!" Wario yelled. "No, it was you!" Waluigi yelled.
They were nose to nose with fury and then suddenly a puff of smoke popped up and Kamek appeared with a little spin.
"Oh bother, this place absolutely stinks," Kamek said.
Wario and Waluigi were still staring at one another, with fury.
"Oh what are you two idiots doing?" Kamek asked. "What does it look like?! I'm about to punish Waluigi for destroying our mansion!" Wario yelled. "ME?! I'm going to beat you up, Wario!" Waluigi yelled. "I'd like to see you try!" Wario yelled.
Kamek floated into the air as he spun his wand. "Enough!" Kamek yelled as he shot out an exploding spell.
The Wario Bros. were launched apart from one another as Kamek floated down to the ground in between them,
"Listen, as much as I hate being here, and I hate all of you, Lord Bowser has a request for the two of you," Kamek said. "A request? Like a job?" Wario asked. "A job!" Waluigi said. "Yes, apparently he believes the two of you are competent enough to complete a simple task, besides my better judgment," Kamek said. "Does this job include monetary value? Like straight up coins in a briefcase?" Wario said.
Kamek rolled his eyes and summoned a briefcase filled with golden coins and their eyes turned into dollar signs.
"This isn't even a quarter of it," Kamek said, "Not even a-," Wario said. "Wario! Wario! Calm down! You know about your blood pressure! And using those pills you find in the trash won't help!" Waluigi said. "Right. Right," Wario said with deep breaths. "So boys, do we have a deal?" Kamek asked. "Well boss, what do we do?" Wario asked.
Meanwhile, Mario, Luigi, and Yoshi alas made it to the Mushroom Kingdom. The town was lively with the Toad people all doing their normal business. Some even greeted the trio as they walked through the town. Then a familiar voice was heard.
"Come one! Come all! Come on down!" "Hey, is that?" Mario asked.
They walked towards a crowd who were standing in front of a building called "Captain Toad's Treasure Kingdom." In front of the building a Toad dressed in an adventurer's uniform made his announcement.
"Welcome all to Captain Toad's Treasure Kingdom! A place to ponder the world's greatest treasures collected by yours truly, Captain Toad!" he said. "Lemme guess! They're made of plastic!" a Toad said.
The Toads in the crowd laughed.
"Ah ha good Toad. It is all real! Everything has been found in a different section of the world! For I, Captain Toad has traveled the globe and found these treasures with my partner!" Captain Toad said. "It's all fake! No Toad is brave enough for adventure!" a Toad said. "But sir, I am-" Captain Toad said.
Suddenly a tomato was thrown at him and he fell to the ground as the Toads all hammered up and walked away, all scowling. Captain Toad sat up and wiped the tomatoes off. Mario went up to him and kneeled down to give his hand.
"Oh, Mario!" Captain Toad said as he grabbed Mario's hand. "There you go. You alright?" Mario asked as Captain Toad stood up. "Yeah, I'll be good," Captain Toad said as he let out a sigh, "You ever think a Toad can be an adventurer?" "Are you kidding? You've been on tons of adventures. I should know. I've been there with you," Mario said. "I know. I know. But sometimes it feels like all Toads don't believe they are capable of being more than what they are. I just want to prove that Toads can be more," Captain Toad said. "And you will buddy. It's going to take some time, but I think that one day it'll happen," Mario said. "I do hope so," Captain Toad said. "Come on. Wanna join us to the castle?" Mario asked. "Sure. It's not like anybody's going to be stealing from the shop," Captain Toad said.
The four of them walked towards the castle that glistened with its white walls and pink ceilings. The flags on top waved elegantly with the wind and the stain-glass windows reflected the light of the sun. Inside, Princess Peach walked along the corridors along with Princess Daisy.
"Oh Daisy, I am so glad you decided to visit today," Peach said. "Oh yeah girl! You know I'm there to help solve you galblems," Daisy said. "Galblems?" Peach questioned. "Yeah, Gal-Problems. Galblems," Daisy said. "I dunno. That sounds too much like galblaas," Peach said. "What's a galblaas?" Daisy asked. "It's the organ next to the liver," Peach said. "Okay, I did not need to know that," Daisy said.
They walked down the hall past the paintings of various locations in the world, including Yoshi Island, the Kongo Jungle, and even a painting depicting Peach's castle.
"So what's up girl? Why did you call me over?" Daisy asked. "I dunno. I just feel something is bound to happen. Today feels perfect. Too perfect," Peach said. "Peaches, I think you're being a bit paranoid," Daisy said. "I know it seems that way, but Bowser hasn't been seen in over a while. I fear he's planning something big, and I wish I'd know what it will be," Peach said.
They stopped in front of the painting depicting the entirety of the Mushroom Kingdom. Toads were painted in it, celebrating, and front and center was Princess Peach herself with Mario and Luigi to her sides.
"I just want to protect this. This has been my home for nearly my entire life. I'd be crushed if anything were to happen to it. To my Toads. To-" she said as her palm landed next to Mario on the painting. "I think you have got to stop worrying and think more positively. Look, your kingdom is prospering, the Toads are happier than ever, and even if Bowser attacks you have two of the greatest heroes who are ready to fight," Daisy said. "Yeah, I suppose you're right," Peach said, "I just hope that whatever Bowser will do next, we'll be ready for it." "Don't worry. I'm sure we will," Daisy said.
At that moment, an older Toad known as Toadsworth who was counsel to the princess arrived.
"Excuse me for my interruption Princesses, but I have come to inform you that Master Mario and Luigi have arrived with a few guests," he said. "It's no interruption, Toadsworth. Please, allow them in," Peach said. "Very well, Princess," Toadsworth said with a nod and he walked off. "Well, we better get going," Peach said. "Alright, just remembered what I said. There's no need to worry all that time," Daisy said. "Yeah. I'll do my best," Peach said. "Like you always do Peaches," Daisy said.
Outside the gates, Mario, Luigi, Yoshi and Captain Toad waited and then Toadsworth opened the gates.
"You may now enter," Toadsworth said. "Oh sweet," Captain Toad said.
The gang walked into the castle through the hallway filled with more paintings and decorations. Toadsworth led the way.
"Toadsworth, how have things been?" Mario asked. "Oh Master Mario, always so considerate. I can assure you everything has been splendid. As for me, I have taken up a hobby in mastering the fine art of golfing. I just hope one day I will be able to last in a competition," Toadsworth said. "I'm sure you will, Toadsworth. Plus, if you ever need a caddy, then you can always call me up," Luigi said. "Thank you Master Luigi. I will consider your offer," Toadsworth said. "Oh, can Yoshi golf?" Yoshi asked. "Perhaps I can train you in the arts of golf one day, Master Yoshi," Toadsworth said. "Wah oh!" Yoshi exclaimed.
They arrived at the throne room where Peach was standing along with Daisy and they walked down the steps.
"I present to you, Princess Peach and Princess Daisy," Toadsworth said. "Hm, no need for the pleasantries Toadsworth," Peach said with a smile. "My word Princess. It is of utmost importance to present to you as the royal princess. It is my sole duty," Toadsworth said.
Mario removed his hat and gave the princess a bow as she gave him a little laugh.
"Princess," Mario said. Peach laughed, "Alright. No need for that." "I'm sorry. I couldn't help myself," Mario said. "Oh, I should get some tea and crumpets," Toadsworth said, "Do you mind helping me, Captain?" "Oh, sure, why not," Captain Toad said.
Toadsworth and Captain Toad walked out as the rest walked over to a nearby table and sat as Yoshi ran around in excitement.
"So, how have you two been?" Mario asked. "Oh, we've been splendid. You know, there's nothing like peace," Peach said. "Yeah, I get that," Mario said. "Oh yeah you do. You got changed in like ten seconds. I don't even know how you did it so fast," Luigi said. "Ha ha. Just a special secret I have," Mario said. "So, have you fellas been up to anything?" Daisy asked. "Well, we've been wanting to start tag racing. It's kind of this thing where we drive a kart and one of us is in the back and we switch. Sounds like fun," Luigi said. "Yup. Double dashing," Mario said. "Wow, that sounds neat. We might have to try that one time," Peach said. "Hey, maybe we can go together?" Mario asked.
They continued laughing as Yoshi kept running around chasing a rubber ball. Meanwhile in the kitchen, Captain Toad and Toadsworth were grabbing food. Captain Toad placed cookies and crumpets accordingly as Toadsworth heated up a kettle.
"What is on your mind my boy?" Toadsworth asked as he picked up the whistling kettle. "Wait what?" Captain Toad asked. "I can tell you have an issue in mind, my boy. Now please speak your mind," Toadsworth said as he poured tea in small cups. "Well, I guess I'm kinda getting this feeling that I'm supposed to be doing something. Something big, but I guess it sounds kinda dumb," Captain Toad said. "My boy, allow me to tell a tale. It involves a young Toad who had been worried about serving the royal Princess. He had messed up constantly, as it was the highest honor a Toad could serve, but through sheer determination he found himself adjusting to his new life," Toadsworth said. "So the Toad faced many struggles?" Captain Toad asked. "Indeed," Toadsworth said.
At that moment, a young Toad girl entered the kitchen.
"Ah, greetings Toadette," Toadsworth said. "Hey Toadsworth. Mind if I help?" Toadsworth said. "Certainly not. Here, perhaps you can help the Captain," Toadsworth said. "Sure," Toadsworth said.
Toadette walked towards Captain Toad with some awkwardness.
"Hey Toadette," Captain Toad said. "Hey Toad," Toadette said with some awkwardness. Toadette grabbed the plates and asked, "Mind if I take these over Toadsworth?" "Not at all my dear," Toadsworth said as he continued to pour tea.
Toadette grabbed the plates and left the room. Toadsworth finished pouring the tea.
"She still isn't talking to you, my boy?" Toadsworth asked. "Yeah. I think I really messed up when we last saw each other. I don't think she'll ever forgive me," Captain Toad said. "Do not fret my boy. I faced many similar challenges like this in my youth. I am sure you will both persevere and get through this," Toadsworth said. "You really think so?" Captain Toad asked. "Of course. One of the lessons I have learned is that if love is strong, then it will be unbreakable. You two, your love for each other is as strong as I have ever seen. And in fact, it will be up to you two to lead the Toads into a new future," Toadsworth said. "What do you mean Toadsworth?" Captain Toad asked. "Well, I am indeed getting old. I believe soon it shall be time to pass the torch to the next generation, and you two are the Toads I have seen who are capable of leading the Toads to a new future. One where they believe they have the choice," Toadsworth said. "Whoa, really?" Captain Toad asked. "Of course my boy. All you need is perseverance, patience, and a thought. The thought of difference," Toadsworth said.
Captain Toad pondered the words spoken to him, and then Toadsworth handed him the tray filled with the tea.
"Let us go my boy," Toadsworth said. "Yeah, alright," Captain Toad said.
At the table, Mario, Luigi, Peach, and Daisy continued talking as Toad, Toadette, and Toadsworth arrived with the tea, crumpets, and crackers. They continued to talk and laugh. Soon, the sky had turned a bright orange transitioning to red.
"Whoa, time really does pass by quickly," Mario said. "It sure does," Peach said. "You know Princess, I did have a great time," Mario said. "Yeah, so did I," Peach said.
They gave a smile to each other. Suddenly their moment was ruined with the sound of engines approaching. Everyone slowly turned to the castle's entrance as Mario led the way and opened the doors. He could see puffs of smoke coming as the growls of the engine grew louder. Mario's face changed expression to a serious one as he clenched a fist. Entering the courtyard were two motorcycles, one yellow, another purple, and riding them were Wario and Waluigi.
"Wa ha ha! Hear ye! Hear ye! This is now Wario Land! Scram off my premises!" Wario yelled. "Yeah! This is now the territory of the Wario Bros.!" Waluigi yelled. "Wario? Waluigi? What are you two doing here?" Mario asked as he released his clenched fist. "Mario! Of course you'd be here! Messing with our plans as usual! This is why we're your nemeses!" Wario yelled. "What are you talking about? I haven't seen you two in ages?" Mario questioned. "Today is the day we are treated as proper villains! We will no longer stay in the background! Soon we shall take over!" Waluigi yelled. "Yeah, and our alliance will ensure we win!" Wario yelled. "Alliance?" Mario asked.
A whistle could be heard. Mario squinted his eyes to the sky as he could he a flaming cannonball heading towards him.
"Move! Inside! Now!" Mario yelled as he pushed everyone indoors.
The cannonball smacked straight through the castle and other cannonballs followed as the castle crumbled and everything went dark.