Disclaimer I do not own the rights to characters from the Super Mario franchise or the One Piece franchise.
Chapter 26: Rest, Thanks, and Preparations. The Ramifications of Alabasta's War
Mario's team exited the palace with Luigi dragging the unconscious Crocodile while Ace and Mario carried Luffy and Robin. As they reached the outside, Robin began to awaken.
"Ugh, where, where am I?"
"Good to see you're okay."
"Mario? Where? ...!"
Robin jerked her head up in shock.
"Cursa! She and Crocodile."
"It's-a okay, we beat them already."
Mario answered.
"You did? Then, the war is over? Crocodile and Cursa lost?"
"Yep, but Cursa did get away with her new partner."
"I see. You could let me down now."
Mario did as Robin asked and let her go. As Robin dusted herself off, Mario approached.
"So? What now?"
"What do you mean?"
"Where are you planning to go? Baroque Works is finished, and you are still wanted by the world government. So what now?"
"Hmm, I don't know. I don't suppose you could offer me safety on your ship, since this is your fault."
"Huh, my fault?"
"I wanted to die here, but you, Mario, saved me and gave me the will to live. So, it's only natural that you take responsibility."
"I see your point. But the ship isn't mine, it's-a Luffy's. We could ask him but..."
Mario looked to Luffy, who was fast asleep from his battle with Crocodile.
"I don't-a think he can answer right now. So, while I can't offer you a place with the Straw Hats, my other friends would gladly help you."
"Other friends?"
Robin was confused, but then she remembered.
"Oh! You mean those rabbit creatures?"
"Yes, it might be weird traveling with them, but I assure you that they will keep you safe."
Robin just smiled at Mario's suggestion.
"Even now, you are so kind. You truly are special Mario."
Everyone just smiled at this, but Robin noticed the rest of the Straw Hats coming up the stairs.
"I'll think about it. Until we meet again."
Robin said as she left in the opposite direction. The rest of the Straw Hats arrived after Robin had left. Before Mario could say anything, Mallow rushed up and hugged him.
"Mario! It's great to see you again!"
"Mallow!? What are you doing here?"
Mario asked with Peach wondering that as well.
"We'll explain later. You should get your injuries treated first."
Geno said as he joined the group.
"Geno too!? I, wow, today is full of surprises."
Mario said. The rest of the Straw Hats arrived and saw the states their friends were in. Chopper immediately rushed up to them.
"Oh my gosh! Are you okay!?"
He asked frantically.
"Yes, we're fine. A little worse for wear, but nothing too serious."
Mario answered.
"Still, we need to get you patched up right away."
Chopper was about to pull out his medical tools, when.
"Alright! One healing rain cloud coming up!"
Mallow charged up his magic and created a rain cloud over Mario's team. Rain began to fall on them and their wounds healed themselves.
"Holy crap! I feel better already. This is amazing!"
Ace said in amazement.
"I know right? This little guy's rain heals all wounds. We don't have to worry about being hurt with him around."
Nami said. The sound of something falling made everyone turn to Chopper, who was on his knees with an aura of dejection around him.
"I'm, I'm not needed anymore! Wah! I'm useless!"
Chopper cried with tears streaming down his face. Everyone looked at Nami, silently blaming her for this.
"Crap! It's not like that Chopper! We still need a doctor! I mean, this rain heals physical wounds, but not sicknesses right?"
Nami turned to Mario for confirmation. Mallow was about to mention he could change his rain to heal sicknesses, but Mario stopped him from saying that.
"Right, Nami. And besides, Mallow needs energy to use his magic. If we go through a hard battle and he gets exhausted, we're going to need you."
"Really?"
Chopper asked, rubbing the tears out of his eyes.
"Definitely. Plus, you're too awesome to be kicked out of the crew."
Usopp said, trying to reassure Chopper.
"Huh!? You were going to kick me out!? WAH!"
Unfortunately, it had the opposite effect and made Chopper cry even more. Usopp was now the object of everyone's ire, much to Nami's delight.
"Alright, that's enough shenanigans."
Peach said getting everyone's attention.
"We all had a long battle and could use some rest. I don't suppose anyone knows of a place we could do that?"
"Uh, actually yes. You can stay at the palace. It's the least we could do for what you have done for us."
Vivi said.
"Is that so?"
Smoker asked, shocking everyone there.
"What the hell!? When did you get here?"
Sanji asked in bewilderment.
"Doesn't matter. So, princess, you're planning to harbor pirates in your home, eh? You know that's a crime that could land you and your family in Impel Down."
Smoker explained. Vivi began to back up in fear. Mario, seeing this, walked in front of Vivi and got into a fighting stance. But Smoker held up his hands.
"Now don't get ahead of yourselves. I'm not here for a fight and I'm willing to look the other way, just this once."
"What, why?"
Vivi asked with the others also curious about Smoker's reasoning. Smoker took in a deep breath, as though the answer was difficult for him to say.
"Because if it wasn't for Red Cap and his allies, Alabasta would've fallen to Crocodile and Cursa. As much as I loath to admit it, this kingdom was saved by the Straw Hat pirates."
Everyone smiled at this.
"But don't misunderstand, this doesn't mean I'll stop trying to take you in. I'm simply a man who believes in giving others their due. Once my unit recovers and backup arrives, I will continue my efforts to take you down."
"Backup? More marines are coming?"
Mario asked.
"Yes, once all the Darkmess was destroyed I took the time to call for backup to help with transporting Baroque Works and Crocodile. They'll be here in a few days. That's how long you got."
Smoker clarified. Sanji took in a puff before addressing Smoker.
"Awful nice of you to let us know."
"As I said, I believe in giving someone what they're owed."
"I see, but is that all? Do you have other reasons to confront us like this?"
"How perceptive. Yes, I have two. First, is to return your friend."
Ethering flew out of Smoker's cloak.
"Bye Smoker, it's been fun!"
Ethering said as he joined his fellow Sparks.
"Wow, I'm surprised you just gave him up so easily."
Nami said.
"It would be more trouble to try and take him by force. I doubt I would be able to hold him, and even if I did, I know Red Cap and his friends would hunt me down to get him back."
"What's the matter mister marine? Are you scared of Mario?"
"Zoro! When did you wake up?"
Usopp asked, startled by Zoro's appearance. Zoro just ignored him and glared at Smoker, waiting for an answer.
"No, pirate, but I'm not foolish enough to believe I could beat him. After seeing more of his fighting skills and power, I'm not sure if even the Admirals or the Fleet Admiral could beat him. And he's not alone."
Smoker answered, glancing over to the other Mushroom Kingdom inhabitants.
"Admirals? Fleet Admiral? What are those?"
Mario asked.
"They're the highest ranks in the Navy Mario. The Admirals are the Navy's strongest fighters and the Fleet Admiral is the leader of the whole Navy. It should be obvious that they are extremely powerful, but still, you believe that Mario could beat them?"
Vivi asked.
"From what I've seen, I think he has a strong chance of victory. But that's not what I'm here to talk about. The second reason I'm here is to offer Red Cap and his otherworldly allies a proposition."
"A proposition? And what would it be Smoker?"
Mario asked.
"First, tell me, Red Cap, did you retrieve that Power Star you were after?"
"Yes."
"And did you defeat Cursa?"
"Yes."
"Where is she?"
"She escaped with her new partner."
"So she's still on the loose then?"
"Yep."
"Then that brings us to my proposition. I want you to quit this band of pirates and join the Marines."
This shocked everyone there.
"What? Are you serious?"
"Yes."
"But I'm a pirate. With a bounty already."
"I know, but this war has shown me that the Navy is woefully ill-prepared to face Cursa. We'll need your help and the Sparks to face her should she make another appearance. Plus, the Navy has far better resources than some rookie band of pirates. We would be of much better help in finding the Power Stars."
Everyone was taken aback by this. The Straw Hats were worried that Mario would abandon them.
"With the defeat of Crocodile, the Warlords are now down a member. The World Government will be seeking a replacement for him. With your power and the benefit of a possible alliance with another world, they would be more than willing to give you that position. With the freedom of a Warlord, you and your friends will be able to search for the Power Stars without interruption from the Navy. We would even be willing to offer aid in finding them."
"How?"
"With the help of Doctor Vegapunk, the Navy's greatest scientist."
Vivi gasped at this.
"Um, who's Vegapunk?"
Mario asked.
"He's the greatest scientist in the Navy, no, the whole world! His scientific advancements are hundreds of years ahead of all the countries. It's because of his breakthroughs that the Navy has so many powerful weapons at their disposal."
Mario thought about this and remembered the words of the fortune teller in Loguetown.
"Would you say he's a genius?"
"He's far past that. He's the smartest man in the world."
Smoker answered.
"And if he were to get the Power Stars, would he try to learn their secrets?"
"Yes, but that can be discussed once you join us."
"And where is he located?"
"I do not know. He's so important, that his location is only known by the top brass of the Navy."
"I see, well I at least know who has two of the Power Stars now."
"Hmm? What do you mean by that?"
"Oh, a fortune teller in Loguetown told me that two of the Power Stars were in the hands of a genius scientist. I may not know where he is, but now I know he has them."
Smoker was confused by this. He's been stationed at Loguetown for years and he's never heard of any fortune tellers there before.
"I see, so does that mean you accept my offer?"
Everyone turned to Mario.
"No."
"What!? Why!? What do the Straw Hats have to offer you that the Navy can't?"
"Honesty and integrity."
Smoker was about to ask Mario what he meant, but Mario held up his hand to stop him.
"Now, Smoker, I know you're a good man. You truly want to help people and stop pirates because you believe it's the right thing to do. And maybe most Marines are like you, but the World Government is corrupt. Allowing crooked marines to take power and make the lives of the innocent they are supposed to protect hell."
Zoro and Nami agreed with Mario's words. Remembering marines like Morgan and Nezumi.
"So a few bad apples means the whole government is corrupt?"
"That among other things. Does the name Ohara ring a bell?"
Smoker was shocked by Mario's question. How the hell did he know about Ohara?
"How do you know about that?"
"I've met with Nico Robin and had an insightful conversation with her. If the government is willing to commit atrocities like Ohara, then I want nothing to do with it. I'd rather stay with my friends."
The Straw Hats were happy to hear this. With Chopper and Usopp starting to tear up.
"So that's your final answer then?"
Smoker asked.
"Yes."
Smoker let out an exasperated sigh.
"So be it then. You have two to three days before my backup arrives, and we hunt you down. In the meantime, I'll be taking Crocodile."
Luigi handed Crocodile to Smoker, he then turned and left down the steps. Mario turned to his friends to see them all staring at him with happy faces.
"Uh, what's up?"
"Oh, nothing, just thanks for not ditching us. I know those Power Stars are important to you."
Nami said, hiding her eyes so Mario didn't see that she was tearing up.
"Hey, as Luffy would say, you're my nakama now. I can't just abandon you."
Mario said with a smile. A radiant aura began to shine around him.
"Gah! Can you stop being cool for a minute Mario!"
Usopp said, trying to shield his eyes from Mario's aura.
"Hmm, what do you mean? Is something wrong?"
Mario asked Luigi and Peach.
"No idea."
"They might not be used to your charisma yet."
Luigi and Peach answered.
"That aside, we should head to the palace. Luffy still hasn't woken up and he may need medical attention."
Vivi said.
"You're right. Let's-a go."
With that, Vivi leads everyone to the upper floors of the palace.
Later that night
Vivi had led the Straw Hats and Mario's friends into the upper rooms of the palace to rest while Cobra and Koza addressed the crowds outside. Smoker, along with some marines who had recovered from being possessed, handled rounding up all the Baroque Works members. While they were doing this, Vivi took the others to rooms with beds to rest. Ace laid Luffy down so Chopper could examine him. Everyone picked a bed and sat down, anxiously awaiting Chopper's diagnosis of Luffy. Chopper turned to the group and smiled.
"He's okay."
Chopper said, causing everyone to release the breath they didn't know they were holding in.
"He's exhausted, but he'll be fine after some rest."
"That's good to hear. And speaking of rest, I desperately need some. Good night!"
Usopp lay down after saying this and fell fast asleep. The rest of the Straw Hats and Ace did the same and soon they were fast asleep. The only ones awake were Mario, his friends, and Vivi.
"Are you not tired?"
Vivi asked.
"We are, we just to discuss a few things first."
Mario gestured to Peach, Luigi, Geno, Mallow, and the Rabbids.
"Oh, is it something important? Or private?"
"Just discussing the Power Stars we still need to collect and how these two got here."
Mario answered, pointing to Geno and Mallow.
"Oh, well if you need anything, don't be afraid to ask the staff. Good night."
"Good night Vivi."
The Mario crew said as Vivi shut the door. After she left, everyone turned to Mario.
"So, Mario, how do you know this Vegapunk has two Power Stars?"
Luigi asked. Mario went on to explain what he had learned from the fortune teller he met at Loguetown. This caused them to worry, especially her predictions of Luigi and Dimentio's return. He was the most dangerous, powerful, and intelligent villain they ever fought. If he did come back, no doubt he would try to retake Luigi so he could achieve his ultimate form. That's when Luigi remembered something.
"Mario, you said the fortune teller's name was Clairvoya, right?"
Mario nodded to Luigi's question. Luigi opened up Stuffwell 2.0 and began looking for something. His face lit up as he pulled out a book and began to look through it.
"Aha! Here, look!"
Luigi pointed to a picture in the book. As the others looked they noticed this book contained entries of all the ghosts he's captured. Luigi pointed to a ghost named Clairvoya, who was also a fortune teller.
"Was this the fortune teller you met?"
"Yeah, just, she was alive, not a ghost."
Mario answered. This revelation made the Mushroom Kingdom inhabitants think about their situation. That's when Peach spoke up.
"Luigi, is there any way for you to get in contact with E. Gadd? We need to talk to him about this Clairvoya to see how accurate her predictions are."
Luigi nodded and pulled out the new and improved Screetch. Luigi turned it on and the static screen cleared to show E. Gadd in his lab.
"Luigi, my boy! How are you and Mario doing?"
"Fine, E. Gadd. We just beat a sand warlord and reclaimed another Power Star."
"Excellent! How many more to go?"
"In this world, only three more. But we still have the other ten in separate universes."
"I see, I see. Well, I'm sure you and Mario will have no trouble gathering them. Plus with the princesses, the Rabbids, and Yoshi joining you, I'm sure you all will be able to face any threat that comes your way."
Luigi nodded at this until he caught onto something E. Gadd said.
"Wait, 'princesses'? Who else is coming? Peach is already here with the Rabbids."
"Why it's Daisy, my boy. After hearing about what happened, she insisted on joining you to help."
"Oh, that's good to hear. Has she jumped through the portal yet?"
"Yes, just a few minutes ago actually. She had gathered some more power-ups and aid from Prince Florian of the Flower Kingdom and retrieved Yoshi and Rabbid Yoshi. Has she not arrived yet?"
"The travel between universes warps time as well. While it may be a few minutes of travel for her, it could be days here."
Mario answered.
"I see. Well, make sure to keep an eye out for her and Yoshi. Now, why did you contact me? I don't think it was for a friendly chat."
"Well, you see professor."
Luigi explained Mario's findings with the fortune teller and her similarities with the ghost they have in a portrait back in the Mushroom Kingdom.
"I see, that is strange. I'll do more research here, but I can tell you something about her that may shed some light on the situation."
The Mario Crew crowded Luigi and the Screetch, interested in this information.
"Before she passed away and became a ghost, she studied under the sage Merlon."
This shocked the Mario Crew.
"Merlon? You mean the same Merlon who helped by guiding me when I was lost in my adventures?"
Mario asked.
"The very same."
Mario was stunned by this and sat down in his bed. If she studied under Merlon, she could've learned to travel between universes as he does. That would explain how she appeared here, despite being trapped within a painting.
"Thank you, E. Gadd."
Luigi said.
"Why you are very welcome, my boy. Now, I need to do some research, and you need some rest. You had a long battle and Cursa is still out there. So rest up, your adventure is not over yet."
"Right. Good night Professor E. Gadd."
"Good night everyone."
The screen shut off and everyone just sat in silence at this new revelation. After digesting this information, Mario turned to address Mallow and Geno.
"So, how did you two get here?"
"Oh, well you see,"
Mallow started.
Flashback to the Nimbus Kingdom
Everyone was going about their business. People buying groceries, and workers greeted each other as they continued on their way to work. And many citizens just talk happily in the town center. That is when the doors to the castle swung open and Mallow and his parents came out. Many citizens stopped what they were doing and bowed to them.
"Hello, King Nimbus, Queen Nimbus, and Prince Mallow. How are you today?"
One citizen asked. The king just laughed jovially before answering.
"Quite well, thank you for asking. And brings us much joy to see all the citizens happy and well."
The king said with Mallow and his mother happily agreeing.
"You are too kind."
The citizens said at the same time. This caused everyone to laugh before continuing their business. As Mallow was about to join his parents as they went to see Garro about the statues they ordered, a bright light came down and hovered in front of him.
"Hello, Mallow."
"That voice, Geno!?"
"It is I. It's great to see you again."
"Same, just weird seeing you like this instead."
"Well, that toy body was a loaner. Unfortunately, this is not a social visit. Do you know what has happened?"
"No, I do not."
"Bowser has attacked Rosalina, attempting to steal fifteen newly born Power Stars."
"What!? Man, why does Bowser have to be such a jerk at times?"
Mallow pouted. Despite fighting side by side with him against Smithy, he couldn't overlook Bowser's many attempts at conquering the universe and kidnapping Peach.
"It's in his nature, but luckily Mario, Luigi, and Yoshi came to stop him."
"Ah, that's good. So they sent him packing then? Crisis averted?"
"No, unfortunately. The clash between Mario and Bowser was so great, that it caused the Power Stars to create portals and travel to different universes."
"Oh no! That's terrible."
"Indeed, but Mario and Luigi have left to retrieve them. The reason I am here though is because of the side effects of this forced travel."
"What kind of side effects?"
"Many strange warp pipes have been appearing that have taken citizens to another world. Presumably, one of the worlds the Power Stars traveled to."
"Oh no, that's bad. So, what are we doing about it?"
"Rosalina is trying to stop more from forming, but it's proving difficult. I'm here to see if any have appeared here."
"Welp, nothing's happened here. I guess we're safe."
Mallow said with a smile. But as he said that, the ground began to shake, and many glowing green warp pipes began to appear from the ground.
"Ah, lilypads! I jinxed it!"
The happy citizens were now screaming in fear as they ran, trying to avoid being sucked into the warp pipes. Mallow and Geno leaped into action and started saving citizens from being taken into another world. They were successful and the warp pipes were starting to stop. But that's when Mallow noticed Garro. He was desperately trying to keep a statue he made of Mallow from falling. He was so focused on this that he didn't realize a warp pipe was forming underneath him.
"Garro!"
Mallow yelled as he ran at Garro and pushed him out of the way. Mallow was sucked into the warp pipe with Geno following him.
"Mallow!"
The king and queen yelled as they reached out to their son. The warp pipes vanished as quickly as they appeared.
"Oh no, Mallow."
Queen Nimbus was beside herself with worry.
"Now, no need to worry dear. Geno went with him, and if his story is correct, Mario and Luigi are already in that world. I'm sure that he'll be back before we know it."
King Nimbus said, trying to calm his wife. This had worked, as she had stopped worrying and grasped her husband's hands.
"You're right. Our little Mallow did save the world after all. I'll have faith that he'll return safely."
In an unknown town.
A glowing warp pipe appeared suddenly, startling many citizens who were going about their day. It did nothing, confusing them. But there was a rumble and the ground began to shake. Suddenly, it spat out something that went flying into the air. The citizens looked up, trying to see what it was. That was when the figure began to descend, causing the citizens to flee the area where it was going to land. People closed their eyes and covered their ears, expecting a loud and bloody crash. But the figure just bounced harmlessly as he landed.
"Man, I'm glad for being a nimbus."
Mallow said as he stopped bouncing. He stood up and began to dust himself off, never noticing the weird stares the people were giving him. Geno then floated down next to him.
"Are you alright Mallow?"
"Yep, no injuries! But, uh, where are we?"
"Why, you are in the country of Dressrosa."
Someone answered.
"Thank you, sir. ...HUH!?"
Mallow was shocked to see a toy dog talking to him.
"You're quite welcome. But could you tell me who you are, and what you are? I must say, I've never seen anyone like you before."
"It's a talking toy."
"It's not that surprising Mallow."
Mallow turned to voice his objection to Geno, but he remembered who he was talking to and stopped himself.
"Right, so, where did you say we were again?"
"In Dressrosa."
"And where is that?"
"In the New World."
"New World?"
"Do you not know where the New World is?"
"No, we do not."
"Ah, well allow me to explain. The New World is the second half of the Grand Line."
"Grand Line?"
"Oh dear, do you not know about the Grand Line?"
"No, I've never heard of it before. You Geno?"
"No, I have not."
The toy dog was shocked at this. He was about to ask more but,
"Hold it!"
Some men wearing strange outfits came up to them.
"Oh dear."
The toy dog got scared and ran off. Mallow and Geno were confused by this. But before they could ponder on this, the strange men approached them.
"You! What are you and why are you here?"
The leader of the group asked Mallow, not noticing Geno nearby.
"Oh, I'm Prince Mallow and I was sent here by a strange warp pipe."
"Huh, warp pipe? What the hell is that?"
"Sounds like a made-up story. It's probably a toy that's caught the human disease."
Mallow was confused by what these men were talking about. How did they not know what a warp pipe was? It's the most common form of travel in the world. And what the heck was the human disease? Mallow was broken out of his thoughts when one of the men approached him.
"Alright, come along now."
The man said as he tried to grab Mallow, but Mallow backed away from him.
"What the, where are you taking me?"
"To be cured."
Mallow didn't trust this man. He read his mind to see if he was telling the truth. He learned that they were going to throw him into a scrap heap.
"What the!? No way am I letting you throw me into a scrap heap!"
"How the hell did he know?"
One of the men muttered to himself. Not wanting to deal with this any longer, the leader marched up to Mallow.
"Just make this easy, damn it. It's not like you could,"
The man was cut off when Mallow punched him and sent him flying into a wall.
"I may not be as strong as Mario, but I can still bop goons like you."
"What the!? Damn toy, get him men!"
All of the strange men charged at Mallow, but he was not worried. He had faced worse when traveling with Mario after all.
"Mallow."
Geno said, getting Mallow's attention.
"I will aid you by boosting your abilities. That's all I can do unfortunately since I do not have a body to fight in."
"That's okay Geno. These guys don't look like they'll be too much trouble."
With that, Geno flew around Mallow and bathed him in a soft light. Mallow now glowed and was ready to fight. The men brought out their swords and swung them down on Mallow. But Mallow was able to easily dodge them all and punch their lights out. Some of the others decided it would be best to keep their distance and brought out pistols. They aimed and fired, but were shocked to see Mallow duck under their bullets right before they hit him.
"Hey! Watch where you're aiming! You could have hurt someone!"
Mallow yelled as he angrily waved his arms. The men just gave him a confused look for a bit.
"That's, um, that's what we were trying to do."
One of the men answered.
"What!? What are you, criminals?"
The men just stared at Mallow in silence. As if to say that the answer was obvious.
"*gasp* You are! Well, I know how to handle criminals like you. Eat lightning!"
Mallow charged up his magic and cast his thunder spell on the strange men. The men didn't know what Mallow was doing until it was too late, and they were struck by thunder.
"Damn it. How is this toy so strong?"
One of the men grumbled as he lay on the ground.
"Hey, what's going on?"
He and Mallow looked to see four figures approaching them. Mallow was stunned as these were the strangest people he had ever seen, and that included Booster. One was a man dressed like a baby, one was a large, fat man with some kind of animal tail, one was a thin man wearing a black coat and spiky blue hair, and finally, there was a little girl with a red hood and eating a bowl of grapes.
"S-S-S-S-Senior Pink, why, how, Ahem! What seems to be the problem, sir? Is there anything you need?"
The man asked, fear evident in his voice.
"Yeah, you could answer the damn question. What the hell is going on? Why are you having so much trouble dragging off this toy?"
Senior Pink, the man dressed like a baby, answered.
"Um, well, you see, agh!"
The man was suddenly kicked by one with spiky blue hair.
"Silence! If you're not going to be useful, then just stay out of our way. We'll take care of this."
"Make it quick Gladius. We still have other things to do."
"Yes, we don't have all day."
Senior Pink and the girl said. Gladius rushed towards Mallow with the intent to finish him off. Mallow got ready and blocked a punch from Gladius. But he wasn't expecting what happened next. Gladius's arm inflated like a balloon and exploded, catching Mallow in the explosion. Gladius pulled his arm back, which was completely unharmed, and watched the smoke in satisfaction.
"A bit excessive, don't you think-in?"
The big fat man asked.
"Maybe, but the job is done now Machvise. We should, URGH!"
Gladius was interrupted by a punch to the back of his head that knocked him to the ground. The others looked to see Mallow was unharmed by the explosion.
"Is that it? Punchinello's explosions were much more powerful."
Mallow boasted.
"How? What kind of toy is that?"
"I do not think it's a toy Gladius."
Senior Pink said to Gladius.
"Oh, then I'll fix that. Keep him distracted."
The girl said. Senior Pink and Gladius nodded before charging at Mallow. Mallow got ready but was shocked to see Senior Pink dive into the ground. Senior Pink started to swim through the ground and towards Mallow at increased speeds. Mallow dodged a dive attack from Senior Pink and was about to counter-attack, but had to avoid another punch from Gladius. The two kept attacking in tandem, keeping Mallow on his toes, and making sure he didn't notice the girl approaching him from behind. Geno did notice her and rushed to protect Mallow.
"Look out Mallow!"
Geno shouted as he rushed towards the girl. She noticed the light charging at her and grabbed it. As soon as she did though, there was a bright flash that forced everyone to shut their eyes. When it was done, they looked to see a wooden doll with a blue hat and cape sitting where the light was.
"So that light was alive. Well, now it's our slave. Now to,"
*Click*
The girl looked down where the sound came from to see the doll aiming its fist at her. Before she could react the fist flew out of the doll's arm and into the girl, sending her flying into a nearby wall.
"SUGAR!"
The three men shouted in concern. They looked back at the duo in anger as the doll got up and caught its fist.
"Geno! You're back!"
"I don't know what that girl did, but I have my old body back."
The men were confused by this statement. But their confusion soon turned to anger.
"Enough of this-in!"
Machvise shouted before he jumped high into the air. When he was high enough, he pulled out a giant coin and faced Mallow and Geno.
"Ten Ton Vice!"
The fat man began falling at an accelerated rate towards Geno. Seeing this, Geno held up his arm, which changed into some sort of gun, and fired a beam of light that engulfed the fat man.
"Machvise!"
Gladius and Senior Pink shouted as Machvise let out a scream of pain. He fell to the ground, charred and unconscious.
"Get them!"
Senior Pink shouted with him and Gladius rushing at Geno and Mallow. They dodged the attacks effortlessly. Mallow was about to counter-attack, but Geno stopped him.
"No Mallow, we're in another world right now. We need to find the warp pipe before it disappears."
Geno looked around and found the warp pipe they came from.
"There! Let's go Mallow!"
"Don't let them escape!"
Geno and Mallow started to run to the warp pipe with Senior Pink and Gladius on their heels. Senior Pink dove into the ground to catch up to the duo. When he got close enough, he jumped out to attack Geno from behind. Geno saw him and jumped up to avoid the attack. When Senior Pink was right below him, Geno pointed his arm cannons down and fired a beam of light. Senior Pink was struck by this beam and blasted into the ground.
"Senior Pink!"
Gladius called out. When the smoke cleared Senior Pink was revealed to be knocked out.
"Damn it! How dare you, you freaks!"
Gladius placed his hands on the ground to try and attack.
"Hey, chill out steampunk!"
Mallow shouted as activated one of his spells. Gladius noticed a large shadow over him and looked up to see a giant snowman about to fall on him. It fell before he could move and vanished to reveal a now-frozen Gladius. Mallow and Geno were about to start running again when they heard heavy footsteps. They looked to the source and saw a large, buff man wearing gold armor and spade tattoos on his shoulders. They were ready for him to fight them, but they weren't expecting what happened next.
"What happened? Who the hell are you two?"
The buff man asked in a high-pitched voice. Mallow and Geno were so surprised that they dropped their guard and started laughing.
"Mallow... *snicker* We need to... *snicker* keep going."
"Right... *snicker* Geno. *snicker*"
Mallow and Geno started to run to the warp pipe, trying to suppress their laughter all the way. The man saw what they were running towards and tried to stop them.
"I won't let you escape!"
The man shoved his arms into the ground and it began to move as though it were alive. Geno noticed that the ground around the warp pipe was shifting.
"We need to hurry Mallow!"
He shouted, not sure what the large man was doing. Mallow nodded and picked up the pace. The man continued to try and destroy the warp pipe but was having a hard time doing so.
"What the hell is that thing!?"
He said to himself as he struggled to complete his task. When they were close enough, Geno and Mallow jumped into the warp pipe. Seeing this, the man doubled his efforts to try and destroy the pipe with them in it. The pipe and the ground around it began to shift and bend strangely until a burst of energy came from the pipe. Knocking all nearby people and toys back and forcing the man to pull his arms out of the ground. When the energy dissipated, everyone looked to see the pipe was gone. The large man got up and glared at the spot with anger until one of the goons came up to him.
"Sir Pica! Are you okay?"
Pica turned to the man with the same angered look, scaring the goon.
"What happened here?"
He growled.
"Um, well that cloud person came out of the pipe earlier, frightening everyone here. We tried to capture him, but he was beating us all. That's when Senior Pink and the others came and tried to fight him."
"And what of the wooden doll? Where did he come from?"
"Oh, well, Sugar tried to touch the cloud person to turn him into a toy. But an orb of light charged at her to stop her. She grabbed it and turned the light into that doll."
"Then why did it fight back? It shouldn't have been able to fight back like that. Especially with all that power."
"We don't know sir. We all thought that it was done, but when Sugar looked away, the doll raised its arm and sent its fist flying into her gut."
This shocked and worried Pica.
"And!? What happened!? Is Sugar okay!?"
The man just pointed behind Pica. Pica looked and saw Sugar, she was still conscious but was holding her gut in pain.
"I... hate... that... TOY!"
She yelled bitterly.
"Sugar, what happened? Who were those two?"
Pica asked.
"They were intruders. We tried to stop them, but they were too strong. I don't know how the puppet was able to fight back. It should have been an obedient toy."
"Shush! We can't let the people know about your power."
Pica said in a hushed tone. Noticing all the townspeople starting to gather.
"You! Take care of the crowd." Pica ordered the goon. "Sugar, we need to let Doffy know what has happened here."
Sugar nodded and followed Pica as he carried the other three to the top of a nearby plateau. Meanwhile, Mallow and Geno were traveling through the warp pipe. They hoped that whatever the big man did wouldn't affect the pipe's destination. Soon they came out of the pipe and found themselves in a vast desert.
"Where the heck are we?"
Mallow asked.
"Don't know, but I can feel that we are still in the other world."
"Darn it. Well, what now? Do we hop back in and hope it goes back home?"
"I don't think that's possible. Look."
Geno pointed to the warp pipe that vanished before their eyes.
"Huh!? What happened to the warp pipe?"
"It must have used its remaining energy to send us here. Without the excess power created by the Power Stars, it could no longer exist."
"Then, we're stuck!? Trapped in another world!?"
"Do not fret Mallow. This is one of the worlds where the Power Stars were sent to. We just need to find one and we could use it to go home. Besides, we might run into Mario and Luigi, they were sent after the Power Stars."
Mallow was relieved to hear this from Geno.
"Ah, that's good. So, where do we go now?"
Geno was contemplating this when he noticed something in the distance. He squinted his eyes to get a better look and was horrified by what he saw.
"Geno, what's wrong?"
Mallow asked noticing the worried look Geno had. Geno just pointed at what he was looking at. Mallow looked and saw a city covered in a black substance.
"Yuck! What is that?"
"Darkmess. Then, that means Cursa has been revived and is here."
"Whose Cursa?"
"She's a dark celestial who possessed Rosalina some time ago. But thanks to Mario and his friends, she was defeated. But why is she here?"
"Does it matter? Those people need help!"
Geno nodded at this notion, but what could they do? They needed the Sparks to fight Cursa. That's when he felt something.
"This presence, could it be? Come on Mallow! I feel Mario's presence in that town. He and his allies are fighting Cursa."
"Let's go!"
The two rushed to the city to help Mario.
Back to the present
"And that is how we got here."
Mallow finished.
"I see. It sucks that you were caught by that warp pipe, but now that you're with us, I can send you back."
Mario said. Mallow was happy about this, but Geno spoke up.
"Mario, you have been here for some time. Do you have any idea what that little girl did to me? Unlike the last time, I am trapped and can not leave this body."
"What!?"
"Yes, look."
Geno's body fell and the orb of light that was his true form came out, but there was a tether made of light stuck to him now. It kept him from straying too far from his body, no matter how hard he tried to break free. After a few attempts, he flew back into his body and it jumped to life.
"See? I can no longer leave this form."
"Hmm, if I had to guess, it was a devil fruit power."
"Devil fruit?"
Geno and Mallow said in unison while tilting their heads.
"Allow me to explain. In this world, some fruits give weird powers to the people who eat them. They are called devil fruits. These powers are different for each fruit and can vary drastically. Luffy, for example, ate the Gum-Gum fruit and now his body is like rubber. Allowing him to stretch any part of his body. Ace, his brother, ate the Flame-Flame fruit and is now a fire person. His body is made of fire and he can use fire-based attacks."
"Amazing. And you assume this girl had a devil fruit?"
"From what you said about the group that attacked you Geno, I assume they all had a devil fruit. Swimming through the land, inflating body parts to create explosions, the way the fat guy jumped, controlling the ground, and turning people into toys, these all sound like devil-fruit powers to me."
"I see, I see. And is there a way to counter these powers, so I may have the freedom to leave this body once our journey is done."
"Well, all devil fruit users are weak to the sea. They lose their strength when they are submerged or covered in seawater. And they can't swim, you lose the ability to once you eat a devil fruit. Other than that, I cannot think of any other weakness."
"So perhaps if I jump into the sea her power will lose its hold on me?"
"Perhaps, but I think the key lies with the girl herself. But we can try once we get the chance."
"Guys, I know you're happy to see each other, but it's late and we're tired. Do you mind going to bed?"
Nami asked in an annoyed tone.
"Oops, you're right. We'll continue our discussions tomorrow. Good night."
Peach said, and with that, everyone went to sleep. Meanwhile, with Smoker, he was on his ship. Counting his men to make sure no one was missing. After the Darkmess disappeared, he made sure to find every last member of his unit. While he was doing this, another Navy ship approached. One of the marines rushed up to Smoker.
"Captain Smoker, Sir! Captain Hina has arrived and wishes to speak with you!"
Smoker groaned upon hearing who was there.
"Alright, let's get this over with."
Smoker went to the deck where the other Navy captain was waiting. It was a tall, slender woman with long pink hair and wearing a two-piece burgundy suit.
"Hina."
"Smoker."
"You arrived faster than expected."
"My patrol route is around these waters Smoker. It should be of no surprise I responded so quickly to your message."
"And the rest of the ships?"
"They should be arriving in a day or two. Now, can you explain what has happened here? From what I gathered, Crocodile attempted to overthrow Alabasta with a strange power he obtained."
"Yeah, he did. Sit down, I have one hell of a story to tell you."
Hina raised her eyebrows inquisitively at this but did as Smoker said. The two were seated at the front of the ship and Smoker told her everything that happened in Alabasta. To say she was shocked would be an understatement.
"I, ah, I need a second."
Hina said as she clasped her hands together. Smoker couldn't blame her. This was an unbelievable story. Even he had trouble believing it, and he lived through the whole damn ordeal.
"Ok." Hina started. "So let me get this straight. Red Cap Mario, his allies, and this Cursa are from another world?"
"Yes."
"And they have the strength that can match the admirals in combat?"
"All three at once. And I wouldn't be surprised if they surpassed the admirals completely. I don't believe we've seen Red Cap's full power. And that's a terrifying thought, considering what he's shown so far."
"And these weapons, and the vehicle they have."
"They're technological advancements that put Vegapunk to shame."
"And this Cursa. Is she?"
"Still at large, teamed up with another pirate whose devil fruit appeared to be a perfect match for her power. And we can't fight them without these "Sparks" Red Cap and his allies possess."
"One of these "Sparks" that you returned to these pirates willingly I might add."
"Did you expect me to fight an enemy that is stronger than an admiral? I might as well be signing my own death certificate."
"Hina sees your point."
"But I did manage to get this."
Smoker pulled out a jar from his cloak that was filled with a sparkling white substance.
"What is that?"
"It's the essence of the Sparks. Before I let it go, I asked the Spark I had to fill up this jar with its essence."
Hina gave a concerned look to Smoker upon hearing that.
"What do you mean..."
"Get your mind out of the gutter!"
Smoker interrupted, upset at where Hina was going with this.
"Sparks have a trail of light that falls off of them. That's what this jar is filled with."
"Oh, I see."
Hina took the jar and handed it to one of her subordinates.
"Take this to our ship. Doctor Vegapunk will want to study this."
"Yes, Captain!"
The marine saluted before leaving. Hina then turned back to Smoker.
"So, where are the Straw Hats and Red Cap now?"
"They are somewhere in Alabasta. Resting after their long fight."
Smoker said, not revealing their exact location out of respect for their part in saving Alabasta.
"And have you started searching for them?"
"With more than half my men out of commission? Do you want me to send them to their death?"
"Right, stronger than an admiral."
"We should wait for backup to arrive."
"Right, I need to make some calls. If Red Cap and his allies are truly as strong as you say they are then we're going to need more help."
"Agreed."
Hina left for her ship and Smoker went to check up on Tashigi.
The next day
The Straw Hats were going about their day. Zoro was out training with Edge, trying to learn how to see this "inner energy" on his own. Chopper was making medicine for the crew and talking with Mallow. The two had become quick friends after a few conversations. Nami was reading some books King Cobra offered to let her keep. Sanji went to the kitchen to speak with the chefs and see if he could learn any new recipes or tricks from them. Ace stayed with Luffy and Usopp, telling them about his crewmates and the adventures he had. Mario, Luigi, and Peach went off to the docks after Mario requested building supplies from Vivi. Luffy and the others tried to ask what he wanted to do with them but told them it was going to be a surprise. They begrudgingly accepted this and continued with what they were doing. Finally, the rest of the Rabbids went with Beep-o and Jeanie to do some maintenance on their ship and weapons. The doors opened up and Zoro walked in with Edge.
"Hey, Zoro. How did training go?'
Luffy asked.
"I'm making progress."
Zoro said with a tone of frustration.
"Don't sweat it mosshead. Just keep practicing like I showed you and you'll get the hang of this technique in no time."
Edge said as she poured herself a glass of water. Everyone wondered what kind of training she put him through. Before they could wonder any longer, Geno came in with Chopper and Mallow.
"Chopper, Cloudy, and Woodman, what's up?"
Luffy jovially greeted.
"That's not my name! It's Mallow!"
Mallow said while flailing his arms. Geno just nodded, not bothering to correct Luffy after hearing about his antics from Mario. That's when Ace noticed Geno's cape dripping water.
"So? What were you up to?"
Geno wondered what Ace meant until he noticed him staring at his cape.
"Oh, I tried to jump into the ocean to see if that girl's power would wear off, but it didn't. Mario was right, I need to deal with her if I want to be free."
"Or we could just go home. Mario also theorized that returning to our universe would weaken her power. There's also Rosalina. I'm sure she would be able to undo what that girl did."
Mallow added. Geno nodded in agreement.
"You're right Mallow. No point in worrying about it now."
Soon, everyone else came in and greeted everyone.
"Hey, Mario! So how's that surprise coming along?"
Luffy asked.
"It's going great Luffy."
"Oh man, I can't wait to see it."
"I know right? Whatever it is, it's sure to be amazing."
Usopp said, agreeing with Luffy. Soon the doors opened and a woman who looked like Igaram came in.
"Hello everyone! I'm glad to see the captain is doing well."
"What the!? So that drag thing was not an act after all!?"
Zoro asked in shock.
"No, no. This is Terracotta, she's Igaram's wife and head chef of the palace."
Vivi explained.
"I heard of wives resembling their husbands but this is just weird."
Zoro muttered to himself. Terracotta ignored that as a butler wheeled in a basket full of fruit.
"I heard the captain has a big appetite, so I've prepared a little snack to hold you and your friends over until dinner."
"Thank you."
Luffy said before scarfing down all the food.
"Greedy pig!"
Zoro and Sanji yelled while Ace just glared at Luffy, but wasn't surprised.
"Good reflexes Mario."
Luigi said, getting everyone's attention. They saw that Mario had managed to swipe some food before Luffy scarfed it all down.
"Hey, do you mind sharing that?"
Usopp asked.
"Hey tube hair lady, I'm going to eat a lot since we fought a hard battle. I say about fifteen full meals."
Luffy said. Everyone, minus Mario and Ace, just sweatdropped at this.
"What the hell? Does he have a black hole for a stomach?"
The Straw Hats thought. Meanwhile, Peach and Luigi were thinking he could give Kirby a run for his money. But then they thought not, Kirby could inhale planets after all.
"Oh, a challenge? Well, I've never lost to anyone's stomach, so be ready."
Terracotta said with pride. Later that night in the banquet hall, everyone was eating while soldiers stood guard over them. But they were shocked and disgusted by what they saw. Luffy and his friends were devouring everything the waiters brought, scarfing it all down in seconds. The Rabbids were no better, making a mess with their antics. The only ones that the soldiers weren't disgusted by were Mario, Luigi, and Peach who ate with manners. They did have to slap away Luffy's hand now and then when he tried to grab their food.
Despite the grotesque eating going on, Vivi was laughing and enjoying herself. The guards were confused by this, but then they saw it. Luffy started singing and putting on a show for everyone. Soon Chopper, Usopp, Rabbid Mario and Rabbid Luigi joined in. Everyone started to laugh at this, making this a truly memorable dinner for days to come. Soon afterward, Cobra led everyone to the royal baths for an after-dinner soak.
"Whoa, it's so big."
Luffy said in awe. The baths were shaped like a fountain. With statues of mythical creatures spewing hot water out their mouths and a top tub spilling water into the larger lower tub.
"Hey, are you going to be able to enjoy this? You are a devil fruit user."
Mario asked Ace.
"Don't worry about it. We might be weakened while waist-deep in water, but that doesn't mean we can't enjoy a good bath now and then."
Ace answered. Mario nodded and everyone jumped in. Everyone was chatting amongst themselves while enjoying the soothing waters.
"Hey, Geno."
"Yes, Usopp?"
"How can you enjoy this? Aren't you like a spirit inside a wooden doll?"
"While the body can't feel the heat, the spirit can. And these waters are helping me relax after a long day of trying to free myself."
"Yeah, I hear ya Geno. It reminds me of the springs back at home."
Mallow added. While this was going on, Sanji approached Cobra.
"Excuse me, your highness. But, where are the lady's baths?"
"Why would we tell you!? You're just going to peep on them."
Igaram shouted back.
"Obviously. So you mind telling me?"
"Never!"
"Oh, there on the other side of these baths."
Cobra answered.
"King Cobra, why would you tell him that!?"
Igaram shouted. Sanji was about to walk to the other side, but Igaram blocked his path.
"I don't care if you are the heroes of this country. I won't let you pass!"
"You'll be able to see them if you get to the top bath."
Cobra told the group. Igaram just fell over in defeat. On the other side, the girls were enjoying a soak and letting the soothing waters heal their bodies.
"You know, Edge, you look pretty with your hair down. Maybe you should do that more often."
Vivi commented, admiring how Edge's hair looked when it wasn't standing up.
"Uh, thanks. But I like the style I have, so I'll stick with that."
Edge said, hiding her blush from the others. Everyone just laughed until Edge got a serious look in her eyes. It quickly turned into an annoyed look, confusing everyone. She snapped her fingers and her blade flew into her hands. Then she threw it upwards, confusing the others until they heard a yelp. They looked to see Rabbid Mario narrowly avoiding Edge's blade. They then saw that the other guys were there with him.
"Huh!? What the heck are you all doing!?"
Vivi shouted as she dove down to avoid them seeing her chest.
"Perverts."
Edge said as she caught her blade.
"Princess, Ladies, I am so sorry. I tried to stop them, but your father told them how to peep on you."
Igaram explained while lowering his head to the floor.
"What!? Father, why!?"
"I guess you're a huge pervert, huh?"
Vivi and Nami said.
"Please listen, I have a good reason for this."
Cobra said, trying to defend himself. Nami then turned to the group.
"Might as well make the most of this. You guys can peek, but it'll cost you one hundred thousand belli each."
Nami then got up to show her body.
"Nami, what are you doing!?"
"Oh my."
"Hashtag, daring woman."
Vivi, Peach, and Rabbid Peach said in response to Nami's actions. The Straw Hats, Ace, Rabbid Mario, and Rabbid Luigi all got comically large nose bleeds from this. The only ones who didn't were Mario, Luigi, Geno, and Mallow. This didn't go unnoticed by Nami.
"Huh? What's up with you four? Not interested in me?"
Nami said with a cute wink.
"I'm a star spirit trapped inside a wooden doll. So I'm not interested, sorry."
Geno explained.
"I'm a nimbus."
Mallow answered.
"And a child."
Peach added, causing Mallow to pout a bit. He didn't like being treated like a child since he helped to save the world.
"And you two?"
Nami asked Mario and Luigi.
"Ahem."
Peach coughed to get Nami's attention.
"Mario is spoken for already."
"Oh, so you two are?"
Nami didn't finish before she let out a gasp of realization. Meanwhile, the two Rabbid ladies had different reactions.
"Whoo! About time."
Edge said while clapping. Rabbid Peach on the other just crossed her arms and pouted a bit. Back with the guys, Sanji recovered and began to shake Mario angrily.
"Damn you Mario! Why, why you? It's not fair!"
Sanji continued to shake Mario while he cried comical tears. Mario just patted his head all the while. That's when Nami turned to Luigi.
"And what about you?"
"Oh, well I also have a girlfriend."
"You do? Wait a minute, is it that Daisy person you were talking about the other night?"
"Yeah, she's a princess too."
"And my best friend."
Peach added. That's when Cobra got in front of everyone.
"Now that the jokes are done. The reason why I told them how to get here is to do this."
Cobra got down on his knees and bowed to the Straw Hats and their allies. Everyone was shocked by this.
"Um, not that we don't appreciate it, but should you be doing that?"
Zoro asked.
"The Swordsman is right. You are this country's king, you should bow to no one."
Igaram added.
"Look, titles are something you wear on the outside, and no one had heard of a naked king before. So allow me to offer you all my thanks. For not only saving my daughter, but my kingdom as well. Thank you all."
Everyone smiled at this. And soon the festivities started up again.
And that's the end of the chapter. Thank you all so much for reading, please feel free to leave a review if you like, and have a nice day.