Welcome all to another chapter of Game Jumpers! In the last chapter, our merry party cleaned up a few more side quests before they started searching for Tubba Blubba's secret, which had them explore the town of Gusty Gulch, home of the Dust Devils. From there, they learned that the secret to Tubba Blubba was located within a mysterious windmill, and an item of importance was located within Tubba Blubba's castle next to his bed. However, on their trek to the castle, Tubba Blubba made a grand appearance and not only kidnapped another Dirt Devil but Kimani and Jordan along with him. With their party weakened, the group now has a new reason for defeating Tubba Blubba. Can the remaining members band together and free not only their friends but the rest of the Dirt Devils or will they join their fate? Let's find out, shall we?
Chapter 14: Tubba's Inside Story
Tubba Blubba's Castle
When the group walked in, they immediately noticed some flying UFOS above. When they saw the group, they immediately flew at the group, picked them up, and threw them outside the castle.
Gusty Gulch
The group groaned from the rather rude greeting.
"Alright... So he's not as dumb as he looks..." Kooper muttered.
"Yep... I wasn't expecting the security..." Austin deadpanned. Mario blew out some air before he stood back up and fixed his cap. He then looked at Booter and Bow before he raised his arm.
"Yes, our powers should be enough to counter those UFOS, but it may be difficult moving with such a huge party, and Bootler and I can only veil a group this large so fast," Bow explained.
"Don't worry about us. We can sneak past them easily," Venom told her, pointing to Austin. Austin nodded. Mario nodded as well before he told everyone sans Austin to always stick close to Bow and Bootler. Everyone nodded before they walked back inside.
Tubba Blubba's Castle
The group walked back inside, with Austin immediately slinking into the shadows. Mario had to hand it to him. He was good. If Mario hadn't watched him, he would have never noticed Austin and Venom there. The UFOS came after them again, but Bow and Bootler made them invisible, causing them to go away. The group stayed there as Austin scouted ahead. He checked the right door, which was locked, before he snuck over to the left side. The door was also locked, but the lock was simpler than the other one. Ebony peeked out of Austin's amulet and quickly picked the lock open before he signaled the others to follow as he went through the door. The group slowly followed after him, eventually clearing the doorway and entering a hallway. A green creature that looked like Tubba Blubba was sleeping in front of the nearby door, only smaller. Austin put a finger to his lips before slowly opening the door. The party followed afterward, shutting the door. Inside the room, there were two large tables and a spring in the middle of the room. Mario walked to the spring and used it, bonking his head on the ceiling and slowly floating down. When he hit the ground, he sprung back up and shook his head. They couldn't reach the tabletop, so Mario groaned and pointed to the exit. The group exited the room, slowly snuck past the enemy... and immediately ran into another enemy, but red.
"Oh great... This is a Clubba. Clubbas are the main guards of Tubba Blubba's Castle. Max HP: 20... Grambi... Attack Power: 8, Defense Power: 0. They often sleep on the job, but if you walk very slowly, they won't wake up. They may look big, but if you use the right attacks, they can't stay awake to save their lives," Goombario Tattled.
"Master Mario, their plan of action seems to be bonking you primarily. They'll either do a singular bonk for a ton of damage or a multitude of various bonks followed by a stronger one toward the end. Please keep your eyes peeled for their attacks, and be prepared to guard accordingly." Bootler followed up. Mario wished Kimani were here since he had the Sleep Stomp Badge, and he wasn't too keen on using Lullaby so early in their trek, so he just jumped on the Clubba twice, putting it at 16 HP. The Clubba stomped over to Mario and walloped him over the head, dealing 8 damage and shrinking him, leaving him with 22 HP.
"Yikes, I didn't know they could do that..." Goombario mentioned.
"Gotta take care of them fast, then," Austin said, Triple Striking the Clubba. He got a Lucky Hit on the third strike, so he did a total of 8 damage, leaving it with 8 HP. Venom followed up with a shot of his own, dealing 5 damage and putting him at 3 HP. The Clubba came after Austin, who was prepared to dodge but was caught off guard when the Clubba swung at him haphazardly 5 times. He dodged the first strike, barely avoided the second swing, got clipped by the third and fourth attack, and slithered away from the fifth one. He wasn't prepared for the final 6th hit, which clocked him right upside the head. Altogether, he took 13 damage, leaving him with 2 HP.
"Mother... This low HP blows..." Austin wheezed out.
"When we get the others back and get to safety, we're doing some rigorous training!" Venom yelled at him.
"Sir, yes, sir..." Austin grumbled. Dylan bristled again and used 5 of his HP to heal Austin for 10, putting him at 12. Bow floated up to the Clubba and smacked him 4 times, defeating him. Before they got too comfy, they had to fight the green Clubba and 2 new enemies.
"It just doesn't end... These are Bristles. They're large rock creatures as old as time. Max HP: 4, Attack Power: 4, Defense Power: 4. High defense, immunity to fire and explosions, and covered in spikes... At least their HP isn't that impressive. I've read somewhere that the underside isn't as hard, but there doesn't seem to be a way to flip them. I bet they wouldn't do so hot if you nailed 'em with an earthquake from below. The worst part is that they can even hit us through Lady Bow's special ability. Even then, there's no way around it. These guys will do one final dash before they die. Bowser must have supplied them to Tubba Blubba to increase security at the castle." Goombario Tattled.
"Also, those spikes aren't just for show, Masters. They can extend their side spike so any hammering or attacks on their sides will be foiled. Master Dylan's Ion Beam can easily thwart their plans, but please be mindful of their last-ditch efforts to attack you," Boolter added. Mario nodded before he tapped his Quake Hammer badge and slammed the ground, dealing 2 damage to the Clubba, leaving it with 4 and 3 damage to the Bristles, leaving them with a single HP. The Clubba and Bristles attacked Mario with their brand of attacks, who blocked the attacks, leaving him with 14 HP. Dylan pointed at the group, causing Alpha's Ion Cannon to appear on his hand. He fired it, cleaving through the group. The crazy thing was that Bristles didn't disappear despite being at 0 HP. Dylan also took care of the Clubba with a Jolt, but the combat didn't end. Bow gave the Bristles a worried look.
"Mmmm... This doesn't bode well. Remember what Goombario told us? Perhaps we should Outta Sight, just in case," Bow suggested.
"...OK," Dylan softly said, allowing Bow to grab his shoulder and make them invisible. Kooper, who was on the sideline, grunted before he lurched forward.
"No, wait! They hit through invis-" He started as the Bristles flew forward and still collided with Bow and Dylan, draining 8 HP from Dylan's HP, leaving him with 12 HP. Bow got injured, but it didn't last until after the battle ended. Bootler came after her immediately.
"My Lady! Are you OK?" Bootler yelled.
"I'm fine, Bootler... It's Dylan I should worry about. My carelessness got him hurt when he could have blocked instead..." Bow grumbled. Dylan made a slight noise of disapproval.
"...No, it's ok. I wasn't paying attention anyway... I'm sorry," He answered, making himself smaller. Austin frowned before he walked up to Mario.
"Dylan's really out of it right now. I think it would be best if we limit fighting for now," Austin told him. Mario nodded before he brought the idea to Dylan out of respect. Dylan nodded.
"Mmm... I'm sorry. I just can't think right now," He answered.
"No problem. If we need your Ion Beam or anything else, make sure to Borrow one of Austin's or Mario's turn, alright?" Bombette told him.
"We'll be fine taking the aggro for you," Parakarry told him. Dylan allowed a small smile to appear on his face before it faded. Austin nodded before he led the team to the other side of the hallway. There was a door ahead, so they peeked inside and saw a Star Piece on a table and a sleeping Clubba nearby. Austin looked down at his amulet and made a few clicking noises. Ebony appeared in a storm of leaves and clicked back to Austin before she slinked over, leaped into the chair, and then the table. She snagged the Star Piece and snuck back to the group, handing it to Mario before she disappeared. The group then went through the double doors, entering a dining room with various Clubbas roaming around. A Red Clubba almost spotted them immediately, but Bow and Bootler made the party invisible. Once they were out of sight, they reappeared and started moving towards the far left doors. They had to stop and veil a few times but got there without much effort. They were brought to a staircase, and a UFO was stationed on every landing. The group slinked past them until they ended up on the lower part where a Super Block was located. Everyone looked at Bow and Bootler since they were the only unleveled partners currently.
"Well, it's all yours guys. Go ahead and give it a whack," Parakarry told them. Bow and Bootler nodded before they hit it, being surrounded by sparkles.
"Oh! This is wonderful! I feel much more powerful! GWAHEHEHEHEHE!" Bow cackled, hiding her face with her fan. Bootler just did a few test jabs, nodding in satisfaction.
"Please calm yourself, My Lady. We wouldn't want our position to be exposed," Bootler warned her. She stopped and coughed loudly.
"Y-yes. Well put, Bootler. Mario, shall we continue?" Bow asked. Mario snorted before he nodded, asking Austin, who was peeking through the door, if it was clear. Austin gave him a so-so handshake before he led the team in. A small chest and a Red Clubba were on a higher ledge, but the team could not get up there with Jordan being MIA. To the far right, there was a Heart Block, and in the middle of the bottom path was a Dust Devil.
"...Ah, I believe that's Whirl," Bootler said. Whirl heard his name called and looked over.
"Oh. Lady Bow!? Sir Bootler?! Fancy meeting you guys here! I snuck into Tubba Blubba's Castle to gather some intel... but Tubba Blubba found me and chased me for a bit, so I'm hiding here... But since you guys are here... I can tell you how to get to Tubba Blubba's room," Whirl explained.
"Whatever you can offer is a huge help," Austin answered. Whirl nodded.
"Right. First, you need to get to the uppermost floor, then keep going until you find his room. Sorry, I didn't see which door was his room, but it's up there,"
"Uppermost floor. Got it,"
"If you guys don't mind, imma stay here... but feel free to come back whenever," Whirl said. Mario nodded before the party went over to the Heart Block and hit it, healing up and running back to the Dining Room. A Clubba was standing in front of a door, so Venom swapped with Ebony and had her stalked the Clubba, defeating it and leaving the team to fight 2 Bristles. Mario asked to borrow Bow, which Dylan nodded to as Mario Quake Hammered the floor, dealing damage to everyone. Bow floated forward and covered her face for a moment before she revealed her face, which was followed by a loud screech. The Bristles had heart attacks, causing them to take 3 damage and even Spooked them. When they attacked Mario, they couldn't put a scratch on him when he blocked. The group sighed before the Red Clubba that was running around, heard them and sprinted over. Dylan saw him before he quickly activated his goggles and loaded up Kimani's form. When the Red Clubba tried to clonk Mario in the head, he growled and socked him hard in the mouth, earning a First Strike. He followed up with 2 more strikes due to Kimani's Battle Talent. When the battle started, the Red Clubba had 3 less HP. Austin started the actual battle by having Venom mark him as a priority target with Vulture's Eye. When Austin followed up with Triple Strike, his attacks did an extra 2 damage, causing him to deal a total of 12 damage, leaving him with 5 HP. The Red Clubba came after him afterward.
"If you don't dodge this time, you're doing the محاكمات أنوبيس when we get free time!" Venom threatened. Austin immediately focused up, dodging the multistrike attack flawlessly. Kooper sweatdropped.
"What are the "Trials of Anubis?"" He asked as Mario and Parakarry finished off the Red Clubba.
"You speak Arabic?" Venom asked.
"Yep, along with 12 other languages and counting. I can read even more, but... I'm still wrapping my head around the grammatical rules for most of them..." Kooper muttered.
"Dude... How smart are you?" Goombario asked.
"Selectively. I'm just really good at languages and history. Kinda mid at everything else, if we're being honest. Nowhere near as brilliant as Professor Kolorodo... Hmm... I wonder what he's up to?"
"Guys, can we please hurry up and save our friends?" Dylan whined.
"Oh! I'm so sorry, Dylan! Let's get moving!" Kooper apologized. Dylan let out a small chuckle, feeling a bit better. The group noticed they also got a level-up from their previous fight.
"Oh nice," Dylan said, picking FP as his reward this time. He was rocking with 45 FP. Mario went with BP, ending with 18 BP, while Austin grumbled and went with FP as well, going up with 30 FP.
"FP?" Bombette asked Austin.
"I don't get much HP from my level-ups... Also, Mario. What badges do we have that would fit me?" Austin answered as he opened the door, leading them to another stairwell. Mario thought about it before he handed Austin his HP Plus Badge for starters. He thought about it before also giving him the Zap Tap Badge. Mario suggested he also take Kimani's First Strike Badge when they found them. Austin nodded. snapping the badges on his shirt, sparking up slightly. He glanced at his HP, seeing that it jumped to 20.
"Alright. Glad I can still get the max HP from badges at least..." Austin muttered, looking down the stairs and seeing a Clubba. Everyone shared looks before they snuck past the Clubba and assaulted the Red Clubba down the next set of stairs. Mario saw a weak spot on the floor, but without Jordan, he couldn't break it.
"Hey, Dyl. Can you use other people's Field Abilities as well?" Austin asked.
"...Mmm-hmm..." Dylan answered.
"...Can you swap to Jordan real fast and help Mario out?"
"...Got it," He answered, bringing Jordan's form up and standing on the weakened spot. Mario leaped onto Dylan's shield and crashed through the floor once they did their tag team move. Everyone else followed suit, noting they were back in the basement with Whirl, only on the higher platform. Seeing the Red Clubba again, Mario twitched before he quickly swapped his Power Smash Badge with the Shrink Smash and smacked it, powering up his hammer. He rushed forward and bashed the Clubba in the head, earning a First Strike. The strike ended up dealing 4 damage and Shrinking the Red Clubba, putting his HP at 16 and cutting his attack power in half. Parakarry just kicked him in the head for 3 damage. The Red Clubba didn't like that one bit, so he scurried up to Mario's ankle and started whacking it, but it didn't do any damage at all. Mario snickered at the attempt as Austin went next. Venom marked the Clubba and allowed Austin to follow up with another 12-damage Triple Strike, leaving the Clubba with 4 HP. The Clubba was still shrunken, so Austin didn't take any damage at all. Dylan finished the battle with a Jolt and a few slaps from Bow. Mario opened up the chest and got a key.
"So... back to the main floor, right? There was a door Ebony couldn't pick, correct?" Parakarry asked.
"Yeah! Oh, Oh! How about we just go and get captured real fast? Better than walking!" Bombette exclaimed. Mario put his finger on his chin. It was certainly an idea. He shrugged afterward and pushed open the door. The party went up to the nearby UFO and got captured by it, being thrown in front of the castle again.
"I believe I had a BANDANDA WHEN I CAME IN!" Kooper venomously yelled out. A UFO came outside and politely gave him back his bandana. Kooper thanked him, to which the UFO nodded before returning to the castle. The group sweatdropped at Kooper as he fixed his bandana while Mario hit the Save Block just because before they went back inside. Mario gave Austin the key and rejoined the veiled group by the entrance. Austin slinked over and unlocked the door before he ushered towards the door. The group went through the door, instantly hiding from another Clubba. They went up the stairs, took out a dicey team consisting of 2 Clubbas and 2 Bristles, and entered another long hallway guarded by a Red Clubba and UFO. They got past the UFO quickly enough, but the Red Clubba caught Mario before the group fully veiled, starting the battle out on even ground. Dylan wasn't interested in letting things go on for much longer, so he simply loaded Kimani's style and perfectly inputted his Dragon Dance and Dragon's Fury afterward, easily defeating the Clubba. Everyone gave him a bewildered look.
"Sorry. Flash of anger... I'm ok," Dylan told the group. Everyone shared one more look before they went through the door and ended up on a long bridge.
"Huh... wasn't expecting the bridge here... How big is this place?" Goombario asked.
"No idea... but we have to be getting closer to saving the others," Dylan muttered. Everyone nodded before they walked to the next door and opened it after Ebony picked the lock. They were brought to another hallway. The group noticed a Clubba sleeping in front of a crack. Bombette and Dylan shared a look before he charged her up and sent her over to introduce herself. She blew up for 8 damage, starting the battle with only 2 HP. Dylan had Bow Screech at the group before he shot an Ion Beam to finish off everyone. The two Bristles flew at Dylan in a last-ditch effort, but since they were Spooked, they didn't do any damage.
"Running low on FP over here..." Dylan muttered, sourly looking at his 8 FP. Mario nodded, telling him to take a break these next couple of fights as they walked inside the hole. In the room, they saw three weak spots on the floor.
"Guess we need Jordan again. Alpha?"
"Command acknowledged. Loading Jordan's form," Alpha said, making Dylan crumble until he came back with Jordan's shield, hammer, and jacket on. Mario nodded before they moved to the first one and opened it, landing back in the room with the spring and large tables.
"So, a shortcut. Nice," Austin called from above. They came back and hit the one next to it, landing on the table. Mario whistled, calling Parakarry over and having him come over and give Mario a ride over to the other table, getting a Power Quake Badge. He took off Quake Hammer and put on Power Quake.
"Hey, while we're down here, we should head back to the basement and get healed up," Kooper said. Everyone nodded, rushing to the basement.
5 Minutes later...
The group was back in the room, healed up and ready to continue. They returned to the hole and peeked out, seeing a Red and Green Clubba and a UFO. It took the group some time, but they snuck past them and reached another door. Ebony did her usual stuff, and the group entered another room with an illegal number of spikes.
"...yeah, no. I'm not walking on those," Goombario instantly said.
"It's cool. I got it," Austin told him. He got in a ready position before the spikes went down. Once they did, Austin disappeared from sight. When the spikes went back up, they saw Austin next to the chest, dusting himself off. Venom, who had transferred to Dylan, nodded in approval.
"Nice to see your Speed Blitz improving," Venom said. Austin gave him a thumbs up before he opened the chest, getting another Castle Key. He Speed Blitzed back, blowing Goombario's cap off.
"How are you that fast?" Goombario asked.
"Thief things," Austin answered, getting Venom back on his shoulder. Mario snorted before they left the room and immediately opened the next room, entering a rectangular walkway with sleeping Clubbas everywhere. The group snuck past the sleepyheads and ambushed the Green Clubba before the locked door. When Bombette exploded yet again, they were greeted by another Clubba and 2 more Bristles. Mario smirked and smacked his new Power Quake badge before he slammed the ground, dealing 4 damage to the Bristles and 3 to the Clubbas, taking out the first one and putting the last one to 7. Parakarry bonked him for another 3, putting him at 4 HP. Mario blocked a revenge bonk, taking 3 damage and having his HP drop to 22 HP. Austin and Venom finished it off before the group continued. Austin noticed they were overlooking the large table with a Star Piece on top, so he told the group to hold on before he leaped down, ending in a three-point landing on the table before snagging the Star Piece. He then asked Venom to swap with Ivory, which he did before he asked her to make a vine launch them back. She saluted before vigorously pointing up, causing a vine to launch them back to the group. Ivory wanted to fight some more, so she stayed out, much to Venom's vexation. Ivory's ear twitched briefly before her eyes darted over to a clock.
"Eh? What's up? It's just a clock," Kooper told her. She shook her head.
"You guys can't hear it, but there's air flowing from behind that clock. I think there's a secret path behind it," She told them. Austin looked himself and squinted. After a moment, Thief Lights started to dance around it, confirming her suspicions.
"She's right. Thief Lights are reacting to it," Austin co-signed. Mario nodded before they quickly handled the Red Clubba sitting in front of it. Mario went to the left side of it and started pushing, moving it, and revealing a hidden path. The group went inside, ending up inside a secret bedroom. The group couldn't get on top of the bed, but according to Austin's Thief Lights, there was another hidden path on the highest shelf. Mario got an idea and started pulling open a few drawers, effectively making steps for them. Parakarry then ferried everyone over before they clambered onto the bed frame, then the bookshelf, and finally the higher bookshelf. The group went through the dark passage for a moment before they saw a lone Red Clubba standing in front of a random window. Austin's Thief Lights and Mario's Adventuring Sense told them that he wasn't alone.
"...This is a trap..." Austin muttered. Mario nodded slowly before checking both the Party's status and his items. Once Ebony healed him of his minor injuries and Mario paid Austin back with a Maple Syrup, Mario swapped Parakarry with Kooper while Bootler swapped with Bow. Dylan swapped to Kimani's form early before they finally started the battle. Since the Red Clubba was well aware of their presence, they could not get a First Strike. When the battle began, two more Red Clubbas stepped from the shadows.
"Yikes! 3 Red Clubbas!? Guys, we're in danger!" Goombario yelped. Mario gave him a smug grin. He had a feeling something like this would happen, which is why he had Kooper. Kooper spun momentarily before he dashed forward, spinning the 3 enemies. He only made one of them Dizzy, however. Mario pulled out a Sleepy Sheep, not wanting to use his Star Power due to his ongoing plan. When the Sheep disappeared, a question mark appeared over Mario's head before a sheep dashed past him. He gave it a confused look before he turned around and saw a herd of Sheep running towards him. He waved his arms in panic before he ducked under his hat as they dashed past. When the rumbling stopped, Mario peeked from under his cap, seeing the frontmost enemy asleep. The third one stayed strong, however. Mario grumbled as the lone Red Clubba ran up to him and assaulted him for a reduced 6 damage, putting him at 19 HP. Dylan went next.
"OK... so I'm going to Borrow... whose's turn?" Dylan asked. Mario pointed towards Austin as he was the only option. Dylan nodded before he used some Star Power to Borrow Austin's turn. He then used Dragon's Dance and Fury to eviscerate the first Clubba, while Bootler used his newest move, Tea Time, to offer the third Red Clubba a cup of tea. He accepted it and drank the tea, which healed 10 HP but, more importantly, put him to sleep for 3 turns. The second one cleared itself of its Dizzy status, so Austin had to avoid his onslaught of attacks. He dodged all by one of the lesser strikes, taking 3 damage and putting him at 12 HP. When his next turn rolled by, Dylan couldn't move due to being Winded.
"Winded, huh? That happens when you get hit a bit too hard in the stomach or overdo it with certain moves. It's not the end of the world, as it usually lasts a turn or 2, but you can't block or act until it's over, so try and finish battles with these moves or at least have a contingency plan beforehand," Goombario explained. Bootler swapped places with Bow, allowing her to Outta Sight Dylan so he didn't take a hit this turn. The order circled back to Mario before he Quick Changed to Bombette and had her Bomb the second Clubba, putting his HP at 14. She didn't get the shrink, however, but Mario followed up with his Shrink Smash Badge, tacking on another 4 damage and Shrinking the Clubba for 3 turns. The third Clubba had a turn left of sleeping, so the mini Clubba tried to assault Mario's big toe with some rapid attacks. He did stub Mario's toe on the last one; however, he was dealing a measly 2 damage, making him hop up and down and placing his HP at 17. Dylan went next, opting for a simple Strike Combo, dealing 6 damage overall due to his copy of Power Plus. The Clubba's HP tanked to 4 as a result. The other Clubba woke up this turn, so they both came after Dylan. He Countered the first Clubba, putting him at 2 HP but he botched the command for the third Clubba, taking a meaty 8 damage and Shrinking as well, putting him at 22 HP. Austin went next, finishing off the mini Clubba, while Ivory Pounced on the final Clubba for 4 damage, putting it at 16 HP.
"OK, we're in the home stretch!" Ivory exclaimed as Austin avoided the attack aimed at him. The turns circled to Mario again, who looked at his FP, which was nearly empty, before he decided to spend the rest of it on a Shrink Smash. He didn't get a Shrink, but he did tack on 4 more points of damage, putting him at 12 HP. Kooper followed with a Shell Shot, putting it at 9. The Red Clubba multi-whacked him again. Mario was able to guard 3 out of the 6 total hits, one of them being the bigger hit, so he only took 5 damage overall, putting his HP at 12. When Dylan's turn came again, he and Bow punched and slapped the Clubba to submission. The group took a moment to catch their breaths and lick their wounds a bit before they continued forward and reached the chest they were guarding. When Mario peeked inside, he saw a badge. He pulled it out and showed it to the group.
"Oh! A Mega Rush Badge! When someone is in Peril, their attack goes up by 4! Needless to say, Kimani's Second Chance passive will guarantee he can use it at least once," Goombario told them. Dylan's face faltered for a moment, but he held it together. Mario told the group they were heading back to the Heart Block in the Basement. Everyone nodded before they took a small field trip back to the Heart Block before they came back to the main room. Austin used the key he got earlier, unlocking the door and walking into yet another staircase. This one was leading upwards, however.
"I can't remember off the top of my head, but it was 3 floors here, right?" Parakarry asked.
"That's correct. Whirl said that we'll find what we're looking for on the top floor," Bow confirmed.
"But we haven't seen Tubba Blubba this entire time. He has to be on this floor," Goombario asked. Mario nodded. It made sense. Seeing as how they had no way of damaging him, he recommended that they give him a very wide berth should they spot him. Everyone nodded before he hit the nearby block, getting a Maple Syrup for their trouble. They ran up the stairs, and Kooper, for some reason, kicked open the door. The entire party glared at him before the heavy thuds in front of them made them look forward. One of the doors opened, and a large purple leg started to leave the room. Austin bristled at the copious amount of Thief Lights surrounding him while Ivory's fur stood up on itself.
"Yeah, no! There's no way we can fight him! Quick, Bow! Veil the others! Auzzy, we need to Stealth, now!" She told Austin, disappearing into his amulet. Austin looked at the others, nodded, and threw down a smoke bomb, disappearing from sight. Bow and Bootler quickly veiled the others just as Tubba Blubba rounded the corner. He walked forward and sniffed the air before looking dead at Bow, who held her breath. But as soon as she thought they'd get caught, he turned around and started walking down the hallway again. Bow was glad she didn't have a heart because she was sure she'd die again from the heart attack. When he got a reasonable distance away, they crept forward momentarily before he turned around. They veiled again as he passed them again. They waited until he walked by once more before they continued forward. They saw Austin materialize in front of a side door since Tubba Blubba locked the main door. The gang was about to question Austin, but they were interrupted by a loud "YUM!"
"Was th-" Kooper asked before Mario haphazardly shoved everyone into the room before he closed the door. He sighed, turned around, and was instantly slapped in the mouth by everyone's hand, and for good reason too as there were countless Clubbas in the room, asleep. Everyone sweatdropped before they noticed the chest over on the far side of the room. The group shared looks before Bow and Bootler veiled them.
"So... What's the plan? We got Austin with us so he can just easily sneak over there and open up the chest," Kooper whispered, not sure if Bow and Bootler's ability masked their voices as well.
"But think of all the Star Points just sitting here. It would be a shame to pass this up, plus we're only going to face stronger enemies as we continue," Goombario brought up. Dylan pursed his lips.
"If we were stronger, we could have prevented my Little Buddy and Stay Puff from being taken. I'd say we go for it," Dylan seriously said. Everyone gave him a look before they nodded. If Dylan was all for it, then why not? Mario smirked before he had Bow unveil them. Mario's plan went as followed:
First, they had Ebony Stalk the Clubbas so that the first one would be instantly taken out.
Secondly, Dylan would provide Austin with a Charge so he could do a great deal of burst damage with the help of Venom's Vulture's Mark.
If any Bristles joined the fight, either Mario with Quake Hammer or Dylan with his Ion Beam would take care of it.
Plan B, should anyone fall, was to escape from battle and have Ebony heal up whoever needed it. Maple Syrups would be passed as required.
The team nodded as they got to work on their strategy.
6 fights and 2 close Game Overs Later...
"...Christ... we did it..." Austin moaned, slicing the final Red Clubba down. The group panted and wheezed afterward, banged up badly but still alive. Mario's plan went well for the first two fights, but when they were ambushed by a few Red Clubbas joining the fray from... somewhere, their plan went slightly a screw as Austin and Venom were tasked with bursting them down so the others had a chance to finish them. Austin fell twice in battle, and Mario got a bit unlucky with some of his blocks and fell once, but Dylan was able to swap to Kimani's style and utilize both his In The Zone passive as well as his Second Chance to clutch two losing battles for the group. However, everyone was drained of their health and FP. Dylan only had 1 HP to his name and was thoroughly drained of his FP, while Mario had 3, being the target of the dying Bristles' last stand in that final fight. Austin, who had fallen during this fight, woke up with 1 HP and a measly 2 FP.
"...Yeah... But I barely have enough strength to stand anymore..." Dylan got out, wobbling slightly. Booter was there to catch him, however.
"Please save your strength, Master Dylan. Master Mario, needless to say, but you and the Young Masters are in no shape to fight. I'd advise hightailing it to a Heart Block,"
"But they can't move fast right now because of their wounds, and we may need to save our supplies for Tubba Blubba!" Goombario panicked, running around the panting Mario. Venom, Ebony, and Ivory all popped out as a result.
"This won't do. Ebony, take the key and go open that door to scout ahead. Ivory, watch your sister's back. If anything remotely dangerous looks your way, retreat without a second of hesitation. فهمت؟" Venom told them.
"Got it, Ven!" "Sure thing, Pops!" The two of them said, dashing to the door and sneaking out.
"...Pops? Sister? Are they your kids?" Kooper asked. When Venom gave him a dangerous glare, he quickly waved his hands in defense.
"It was an honest question, Ven. No need to bite his head off..." Austin said with a sweatdrop.
"...Yes, they are," Venom simply said.
"...Cool, man. You're a good father, is all,"
"...Thanks," Venom answered. After a few minutes, Ebony and Ivory came back into the room.
"Good news. The next room is clear, and it's holding a Heart Block and Save Block," Ebony reported.
"And Tubba's just watching the far door, so we got a clear shot to the safe room," Ivory co-signed.
"Great work, you two. Everyone? We're moving now. No dawdling," Venom commanded. Mario was glad he had so many capable leaders in his party because right now, his head hurt, and his body was a mess, so he couldn't lead them properly right now. Venom caught his glance and simply nodded in understanding before he took up the rear. The group staggered out of the room and went into the next room. As Ebony and Ivory said, it was clear, and a Heart Block awaited them. The Party Leaders quickly hit it, feeling their energy and wounds heal.
"Oh, man. That feels great! Alright, let's keep moving!" Austin said after stretching. Mario nodded before he took point, hitting the Save Block. He opened the door to the next room and saw a long bridge again. They crossed it and entered a giant bedroom.
"Bedroom. This must be Tubba Blubba's. Spread out and search for clues," Venom said from Austin's shoulder. Everyone nodded before they started looking around for anything remotely suspicious. Parakarry, with his aerial advantage, spotted a small chest sitting behind the head of the bed.
"Got a chest over by the headboard!" Parakarry called out. The group all convened on the chest, but before they could open it, heavy footsteps could be heard coming towards the door.
"Oh, nah! That's Tubba Blubba! Take cover, everyone!" Austin hissed, diving behind the headboard. Everyone else followed suit, with Bow and Bootler veiling them for extra assurance just as Tubba Blubba busted into the room.
"Hmmm, I might be in trouble. That Star Spirit ran away… And now I think someone suspicious is in the castle… I sure don't want to make King Bowser mad. He's scary. He did make me invincible, but if I screw up, he might change me back to normal," Tubba Blubba started muttering to himself. He walked over to his bed, shook his head, and decided to get some beauty rest. Once the group heard him start snoring, they breathed out a sigh of relief and unveiled. Mario pointed rapidly at the chest, causing them to nod as they crowded it as he opened it. Inside was a key, but this one looked different than the other ones.
"Hi there! I'm Yakkey! …a faithful and chatty follower of Master Tubba Blubba! My very important job is to guard his valuables! But…? You don't look like Master Tubba Blubba at all! That means… You've come here to steal me, the magical key that unlocks the door to Windy Mill at the foot of Gusty Gulch? And furthermore, your goal is to find out if there's a secret inside that Windy Mill?" The key known as Yakkey... yakked. The group gave him a bewildered look from the long exposition drop.
"...I mean... yeah? You were very accurate in your assessment," Goombario truthfully said.
"Oh wow, you guys are really truthful!... HEEELLP! MASTER TUBBA BLUBBA! A THIEF!" Yakkey admitted before hollering out loud.
"You treacherous turncoat! Shut your mouth, or I swear I'll-" Venom threatened before they noticed Tubba Blubba peeking over the bedframe. The group blankly stared at him before Austin and Venom yelled, shooting an arrow at his eyes, making him grab them in minor annoyance as he roared.
"STOP GAWKING AND GET MOVING, NOW!" Venom screeched. Everyone wasted no time in booking it towards the exit just as Tubba Blubba got his sight back and started stomping after them.
"Ohmygosh, Ohmygosh, Ohmygosh, Ohmygosh!" Goombario rapidly yelled as they crashed through the first door, and Kooper Shell Shot the second door open, fumbling with his inhaler and taking a quick puff of it. When the group got halfway past the bridge, Tubba Blubba appeared.
"Hey, you! Thief! Stop!" He yelled before he ground pounded the bridge, breaking it and causing the group to fall onto the other bridge. The group got to their feet and shielded themselves from the debris before Tubba Blubba crashed down next to them. Mario was the closest and he got grabbed by Tubba Blubba as a result. Before he could get eaten, Dylan launched himself at Tubba Blubba, swapped to Jordan's form, activated Berserk, and socked Tubba Blubba in the jaw. The shock made him release Mario and sent him flying through the opposite door.
"I'm not losing any other friends! Through the other door, NOW!" Dylan barked out. Mario fixed his hat and nodded, repeating Dylan's order to the others as they got up and started sprinting down the stairs. They ended up on the bottom floor just as Tubba Blubba landed in the middle of the floor. The group hurried away from his grabs before they crashed through the door, being greeted by a party of Dust Devils.
"Huh? Hey, guys! What's the rush?" One of the Dust Devils asked.
"Tubba Blubba is chasing us! We have the key to his secret, but we gotta get to the windmill!" Kooper quickly explained, taking another hit of his inhaler. The Dust Devils sweatdropped.
"Tubba Blubba's chasing you?! And he's right on the other side of the door? Gulp! And, you might be able to find out Tubba Blubba's weak point!? The windmill at the foot of the hill... You must hurry! Run as fast as you can to the Windy Mill! We'll hold Tubba Blubba here!" He said as all the Dirt Devils rushed towards the door and braced it just as Tubba Blubba slammed into it. Some of them got launched away, but more came and replaced them.
"Don't worry about us! Go, for all of our sakes! Don't look back!"
"No! I refuse t-!" Bow cried out.
"No arguing with us, Our Lady! Go now!"
"...Damn it! Do what Sand says!" Bow exclaimed after a moment of frustration. The group nodded before they started sprinting towards the windmill. Dylan snuck a glance at Bow, who had tears in her eyes. He gritted his teeth and looked forward as they rushed downhill, dodging enemies and barreling through the town until they got to the windmill. Mario pulled out Yakkey, who he had stashed in his pocket before he jammed him in the lock. He went to turn it but Yakkey was able to resist the turn.
"No! I won't be used by thieves! You'll be punished by Tubba Bl- GURK!" Yakkey argued before Dylan's hand jetted forward and grabbed him by the "neck."
"Listen here. Your Master and Bowser have not only put my closest buddies in danger, but you've also put this entire kingdom and even the world in danger. If you stop us from saving my Little Buddy and Stay Puff, I'll (Censored because holy shit)" Dylan threatened before he started getting really angry. Mario's eyes bulged out of his head, as did everyone else. Even Venom, who was with Dylan's rage at first, looked uncomfortable. Once Dylan was done with the very illegal threat, Yakkey's whole body turned white with fear.
"...P-p-p-please use me to o-o-o-open the door," He told Mario. Mario, who was still stunned, stepped over and softly prided Yakkey from Dylan's tightening fingers before he unlocked the door. Once they were inside, they saw a well that was covered with some wood, but Dylan and Mario were able to break through the blockage. The gang blitzed through the narrow corridors, each with a sign telling them to turn back to various degrees before they ended up in a large cavern. On a pedestal
"Hmm? Who are you guys?" The heart asked. Mario twirled and flourished his cap, causing the heart to jump in shock.
"What!? Mario!? Did someone... tell you that I'm the secret strength of Tubba Blubba!? Someone spilled the beans that the Tubba Blubba in the castle is just a shell, and I'm controlling it from here!?"
"...Dude, you just told us that..." Kooper said. The heart sweatdropped.
"...You can't trust anybody!"
"WILL YOU JUST GET TO THE POINT!" Dylan screeched at him.
"I can't let you out of here knowing the secret of my "invincible" body! Sorry, but here we go!" The heart exclaimed before he summoned two Red Clubbas. Mario tightened his fist and got into a battle stance. He glanced at Dylan, who was almost frothing at the mouth, before he looked at Austin, who gave him a nod. Mario turned his attention back to the heart before he let out a grunt of approval before he leaped forward, eager to put an end to this threat.
Current Party Status
Mario:
Starting Stats: 10 HP, 5 FP, 3 BP
Current Stats: 25 HP,10 (15) FP, 18 BP (Level 11)
Equipped Badges:Close Call (1), Attack FX B, Damage Dodge (3), Power Quake (2), Shrink Smash (2), Feeling Fine (3), Hammer Throw (2), FP Plus (2), Quick Change (2)
Main Partners: Parakarry
Items: Maple Shroom x5, Fried Egg, Koopa Tea x4, Super Soda, Spicy Soup x2, Pow Block, Sleepy Sheep, Fright Jar x2, Egg, Whacka's Bump, Stopwatch, Maple Super, Sweet Shroom x3, Snowman Doll x2, Fire Flower, Super Shroom x2, Apple, POW Block, Lemon,
Current Star Pieces: 14
Current Badges: Peekaboo, Speedy Spin (1), Close Call (1), Hammer Throw (2), Dizzy Attack (2), Multibounce (1), Smash Charge (1), Power Bounce (2), Refund (1), Attack FX B, Power Stomp (1), HP Plus (2), FP Up (2), First Attack (1), Smash Charge (1), D-Down Pound (2), Zap Tap (4), Feeling Fine (3), Starman (1), Damage Dodge (3), Quake Hammer (1), Group Focus (1), Runaway Pay (1), Attack FX C, Shrink Stomp (2), Power Smash (1), Shrink Smash (2), HP Plus (2), FP Plus (2), Quick Change (2)
Kimani:
Area of Expertise: Grounded Combat, Single Target Damage, Countering
Starting Stats: 10 HP, 10 FP, 3 BP
Current Stats: 25 HP, 30 FP, 9 BP (Level 10)
Equipped Badges: Power Plus (4), Power Rush (1), Sleep Stomp (1)
Main Battle Partners: Firebrand, Kooper
Battle Talent: StrongerAttack Action Commands (can input one more action command, dealing more hits/damage) but stricter timing on ALL Action Commands.
Field Actions: Can strike enemies in the field with his fist, allowing him to perform his action commands for Strike early. (Basically, his first strikes have the potential to do 3 damage should he time the commands right) He can also help Mario break Super Blocks on the field.
FP Moves:
Strike: (0 FP) Strikes a foe with a punch or kick. Pressing the A button with correct timing allows up to 2 follow-ups. Pow: 1 (PP: 2) (up to 3). Style: Timed. Can hit Top-Spike enemies, can't target flying enemies
Power Strike: (2 FP) Strikes a foe with a stronger punch or kick. Can press A at the right time to execute another Power Strike but will cost an additional 2 FP. Pow: 3 (PP:4), Style: Timed: Can hit Top-Spiky enemies, can't target flying enemies
Focus Blast: (3 FP) Charges up a devastating blast of energy. Gets stronger with each turn spent charging. Maxes at 12 damage. Pow: 3 (PP: 4) (1 turn), 6 (PP:7) (2 turns), 12 (PP: 13) (3 turns)
Dragon Uppercut: (5 FP) Launches a devastating uppercut that launches foes into others! Pressing A at the correct time allows Kimani to follow up with a Dragon's Descent, spiking the enemy back down for extra damage! DU: Pow: 5 (PP: 6) (Enemy projectile pow: 3 (PP:4)), Style: Timed, Can hit flying and Spiky enemies. DD: (5 FP) Pow: 5 (PP: 6) (Enemy projectile pow: 3 (PP: 4))
Dragon's Dance: (20 FP) Unleashes a combo of 5 attacks upon a target. Reaching the max hits will permit Kimani to use Dragon's Fury, which unleashes 5 extra hits. Pow: If properly executed, 10 (PP: 15) 10 (PP:15) from Dragon's Fury. Style: Timing. Pierces Defense. Extremely hard to time, but easily the highest-damaging move in the entire game. Can hit all but flying enemies. Will leave Kimani Winded for a turn.
Passives:
Counter: Can't guard normally but can Counter attacks. Has stricter timing than the normal guard but will null ALL damage and damage the attacker for 1 damage.
Master's Potential Unlock: Kimani's Counter has been enhanced! Now, it can do 2 damage to whoever he hits!
Second Chance: Will survive a singular fatal hit with 1 HP. Will be available to use again once 10 HP is reached.
In The Zone: If Kimani goes undamaged for 2 turns, he'll enter The Zone, which is a focused state for Kimani. During The Zone, Kimani's attack and defense rise by 1, and the number of Action Commands he can input goes up by one as well! (For example, his normal Strike command can be followed up by 3 extra attacks, and his Power Strike can attack up to 3 times!) Taking damage twice will knock him out of it.
Master's Potential Unlock: Kimani's focus is even more stable! Kimani can take a singular hit before entering In The Zone!
Firebrand:
Area of Focus: Versatile, Ice Enemies, Single Target Damage
Field Actions: Can spend 1 FP to launch a fireball. Fireballs will ignite flammable sources and can First Strike enemies at a distance.
Element Shard Upgrade: Firebrand's attack pow goes up by 1!
Element Shard Upgrade: Firebrand's attack pow goes up by 1 again!
FP Moves:
Swipe: Lashes out with a quick claw swipe. Pressing the A button at the right time launches another swipe. Pow: 3 (6), Style: Timed, Can't target flying enemies. Can hit Spiky Enemies.
Fireball: (2 FP) Launches a fireball at an opponent. Can hit all enemies. Deals double damage to Icy enemies but will heal Fiery enemies. Pow: 5, Style: Charge
Fire Form: (5 FP) Firebrand disappears into Kimani's amulet, allowing Kimani to flare up. Kimani's attacks deal fire damage for the duration, and enemies will take 1 damage from hitting him physically. His attack goes up by 3 as well. After 3 turns, Kimani will take 3 points of damage after every turn until he uses the Cool Off ability.
Dragon's Roar: (10 FP) Firebrand unleashes a huge burst of energy from a close-range punch. The energy hits everyone behind the original target as well! Pow: 9, (Energy Blast only happens from perfectly timing the command: 7 Pow to everyone hit by the energy.) Style: Charge, pierces defense.
Jordan:
Area of Expertise: Defense and Damage Mitigation
Starting Stats: 20 HP, 5 FP, 3 BP
Current Stats: 35 (40) HP, 25 FP, 9 BP (Level 10)
Equipped Badges: Smash Charge (1), D-Down Pound (2), Power Stomp (1), Pay-Off (2), HP Plus (2)
Main Battle Partners: Typhoon, Goombario
Battle Talent: Guard Action Command is more forgiving and will block up to 3 points of damage. Doesn't have any Attack Action Commands outside of Smash, however.
Master's Potential Upgrade: Jordan's blocking techniques have improved! He can now block up to 4 points of damage!
Field Talent: Can raise his shield, preventing foes from first striking him. He also turns into a platform during this stance. This allows his friends to reach high switches and enemies. Mario can perform an Enhanced Spin Jump from this position in order to break weak floor panels. (Once Mario acquires the Super Boots)
FP Moves:
Smash: Bonks foes with a downward swing. Pow: 1(2) Style: Charge, Can flip enemies. Can't target flying enemies
Berserk: (1 FP per attack) Jordan sacrifices his defense for more attack power! Effects: 2 to Jordan's Attack Power and 1 to all FP Cost, Defence Power drops to 0, can't Guard, Doesn't cost an action or FP to use or deactivate.
Defensive Shout: (5 FP) Unleash a rousing roar that increases everyone's defense by 2 for 3 turns. This stacks with Jordan's Stand Strong passive and enhanced guard.
Cyclone: (2 FP) Jordan spins forward with his hammer outstretched, plowing through all grounded enemies. Pow: 2, Style: None, Can't hit flying enemies.
Guardian Angel : (2 FP) Dedicates a turn blocking attacks for the next party member. Will take full damage from attacks, however. Guarded characters can guard, reducing the amount of damage Jordan takes.
Revenge Strike: (5 FP) Jordan assumes an aggressive stance, allowing his enemies to attack first! Once this is done, Jordan will swing his hammer, dealing half the damage he took to ALL enemies! Jordan's defense drops to zero during this stance and he's incapable of blocking attacks as well!
Dome of Protection: (All FP) Jordan projects a shield that covers everyone, preventing damage until Jordan's next turn. Jordan becomes Exhausted for 2 turns
Passives:
Stand Strong: Gains a defense of 1, which automatically reduces damage by one. Doesn't stack with his Action Command, however.
Master's Potential Unlock: Jordan's defensive nature has been enhanced! His defense rises to 2! Still doesn't stack with his Action Command, however...
Typhoon:
Area of Expertise: Area of Effect, Ground Enemies, Ceiling Enemies, Displacement
Field Ability: Typhoon lets out a roar, taunting enemies towards them. Any enemy that attacks at this time will be twice as strong but they'll give twice the amount of Coins, Hearts, Flowers, and items upon defeat. Star Points aren't affected.
Element Shard Upgrade: Typhoon's attack pow goes up by 1!
Element Shard Upgrade: Typhoon's attack pow goes up by 1!
Slam: Hits the ground with a powerful swing of his fist. The shockwave will damage all grounded foes. Deals less damage per enemy. Pow: 4, (To front enemy) decreases by 1 with each enemy. Can't target flying enemies. Will flip flippable enemies. Can hit enemies on the ceiling.
Disrupting Wave (2 FP): Summons a wave of water to wash over foes. Will shuffle the enemy formation. Pow: 4, can't target flying foes. Deals double damage to Fiery enemies.
Liquify (3 FP): Drag a foe to the depths of the ocean, temporarily taking them out of the battle! Typhoon will also be unavailable for the time being as well.
Njǫrd's Fury (10 FP): Typhoon will evoke Njǫrd's power, causing 4 water tentacles to appear on his back. For 3 turns, the tentacles will attack the opposing party. Each tentacle will track a different opponent if possible. If not, it'll hit the same target for reduced damage. Once the 3 turns are up, Typhoon becomes Exhausted for 2 turns. Pow: 4 per attack. If an enemy gets struck by another tentacle on the same turn, the damage will be reduced by 1.
Dylan:
Starting Stats: 10 HP, 20 FP, 0 BP
Current Stats: 30 HP, 45 FP, 0 BP (Level 11)
Area of Expertise: Area of Effect, Healing and Buffing, Versatile
Equipped Badges: N/A
Main Battle Partners: Alpha, Bombette
Idle Animation: Dylan will rock on his heels and swing his arms idly while looking around. After a moment, he'll start to dance. He'll actually dance to whatever background music is playing (Will match the tempo of whatever song is playing) until an input is pushed.
Battle Animation: Dylan will have a hand on his ear and snap his fingers to the beat of the music. When it's his turn, he'll upgrade into a mini two-step.
Battle Talent: Passively regenerates FP over time (5 FP every turn) and doesn't take lightning damage, but he takes double damage from Water attacks, and he can't use FP items or badges.
Field Ability: Dylan can give Mario and Kimani a jolt in order to strengthen their attacks, allowing them to break Stone Blocks. (Mario does need the Super Hammer, at least) Will also give whoever he jolts a free Charge (2 to their next attack) if they enter battle.
Jolt: Dylan launches a Lightning Bolt at a target of his choice. The bolt will jump to other targets if he's Charged Up. Pow: 2, (3 if he does the action command correctly) Can't hurt electric enemies. Style: Charge
Copycat: (5 FP, Cost 0 if he's Charged Up) Dylan scans a target, copying their moves and attributes for 2 turns. Alpha becomes unavailable during the Copycat. Pow: 0, changes Dylan's appearance and attributes after usage. Doesn't work on bosses or enemies with more than 5 Pow or 10 HP (Subject to change. Might just allow Dylan's Smash Shards to upgrade the threshold) Style: Aim, doesn't end Dylan's turn.
Quicken: (5 FP) Give your buddy an energizing zap, giving them an extra turn for 2 turns! Should Dylan be charged up, Quicken will also restore 5 FP!
Jump Start: (7 FP) Dylan sends a large amount of electricity into a friend of his choice, healing them for 5 HP and giving them the Zap Tap status for 1, 2, or 3 turns! If Charged, the HP goes up to 10, and the Zap Tap status will be 3 regardless of success or failure. Style: Charge
Passives:
Static Charge: Dylan passively builds up static as he fights. After 2 turns, Dylan becomes Charged Up, giving him the Zap Tap status and empowering one of his moves. The charge goes away after attacking or getting hit twice, however. Guarding doesn't count as being hit.
Copycat MK.1: Alpha's processors have been upgraded! He can now copy foes up to 12 HP!
Copycat MK.2: Alpha's processors have been upgraded! He can now copy foes with Attack Power as high as 7!
Copycat MK.3: Alpha's processors have been upgraded! He can now use a copied foe's second attack! (if they have one)
Friend Forms: Dylan can copycat his allies for free!
Element Shard Upgrade: Dylan and Alpha's attack pow goes up by 1!
Element Shard Upgrade: Dylan can take up to 15 HP a turn before Alpha shuts down!
Alpha:
Area of Expertise: Debuffing, Area Of Effect, Information
Field Ability: Alpha can scan nearby enemies, exposing their weaknesses and lowering the frontmost foes' defense by 2 for one turn when they enter combat. He can also spend 5 FP to Copycat a friend or foe, and allow Dylan to start in said form.
Special Characterises: Alpha doesn't physically appear. Instead, Alpha will digistruct his tools for Dylan to use during his turn. Should Dylan take more than 10 HP damage in one turn or get hit by a water attack or fire attack, Alpha will Overheat or Short Circuit, which is his variation of being Injured for 1 turn.
Ion Beam (5 FP): Alpha digistructs an Ion Cannon onto Dylan's arm, allowing him to fire an Ion Beam at a target of Dylan's choice. The beam will cleave through a line, so if he aims at a grounded foe, all grounded foes will be hit. Pow: 3 (4) Ignores defense and lowers it by one point for 2 turns. Doesn't stack with itself. Style: Charge
Safeguard (2 FP): Alpha locks his systems, preventing him from being Overheated or Short Circuit next turn should Dylan take 10 damage or be hit by a Fire or Water attack. This will also raise Dylan's defense by 1 for this turn.
Scan: (10 FP) Alpha scans the enemies and gives his team pointers on their attacks and weaknesses, decreasing their Attack Power and Defense Power by 1, 2, or 3 depending on Dylan's success with the Action Command. This can cause an enemy to fall into Dylan's Copycat threshold. Style: Memory
Overcharge: (5 HP) Alpha overcharges Dylan, granting him the Charged buff instantly!
Assist: Alpha forgoes his turn, allowing Dylan to get an extra turn.
Austin:
Starting stats: 5 HP, 10 FP, 6 BP
Current Stats: 15 HP, 30 FP, 12 BP (Level 11)
Area of Expertise: Defense Piercing, Versatile, Avoidance
Equipped Badges:
Main Partners: Venom, Ebony, Ivory
Idle Animation: Austin will crouch on the ground and look around for any potential threats. If an enemy happens to be close during this animation, an exclamation point will pop up over his head, and he'll aim his bow at them.
Battle Animation: Austin will be in a crouched stance, ready to attack or defend himself at a moment's notice. Occasionally, he'll lose his balance, flail, and fall over before picking himself up quickly. He'll blush for a moment before it disappears, however.
Field Ability: Austin's Thief Lights will highlight hidden paths and items for him. He can also point out weak points in Metal Blocks, allowing Mario and Kimani to break Metal Blocks. Austin's First Strikes do an extra 2 damage.
Battle Talent: Austin's Guard command is replaced by Dodge, allowing him to automatically avoid up to two attacks. His normal defensive Action Command also allows him to Dodge attacks should he time them properly. The timing is stricter as a result (not as strict as Kimani's), and should he fail the command, he takes an extra 2 points of damage. This extra damage doesn't happen if he doesn't attempt the command. Gains less HP on Level Ups. Also can only use Venom, Ebony or Ivory as Partners.
FP Moves:
Slash/Shot: Austin attacks a target with a deft strike from his dagger or a singular arrow from his bow. Pow: 1 (2) Can hit Top-Spiky enemies. (his Bow can hit Spiky Enemies) Pierces Defense. Can't target flying enemies (He can if equipped with his bow.) Style: Timed
Triple Strike: (2 FP) Austin lashes out with three quick attacks from his dagger or bow. Pow: 3 ( 6 if done perfectly) Can hit Top-Spiky enemies. (His bow can hit Spiky Foes) Pierces Defense. Can't hit Flying enemies. (Unless armed with his bow) Style: Timed
Sleep Darts: (5 FP) Austin throws a fan of darts laced with sleep-inducing chemicals. Any foe hit with them has a chance of falling asleep for 2 turns! Does nothing if the command is blotched. Style: Aim.
Arrow/Dagger Rain: (5 FP) Austin throws or shoots a plethora of projectiles into the air, causing them to rain down on the battlefield for a few turns! Pow: 1 every enemy turn. Pierces Defense. Style: Memory. The rain will last 1, 2, or 3 turns, depending on the timing.
Mirror Image: (5 FP) Austin creates a clone of himself that mimics his actions for up to 3 turns. However, taking a hit will disband the clone. This doesn't take up a turn. Style: None.
Stealth: (10 FP) Go invisible and avoid the attention of your foes! You can't be hit or targeted by anything for 2 turns! The command for it is rather difficult, however, and it won't work if you fail it at all. Attacking doesn't break the Stealth either! Style: Memory
Stance Swap: Austin swaps between his daggers or bow. This doesn't take up a turn.
Passives:
Thief's Intuition: Austin has a chance to deal 2 extra points of damage with any of his attacks, and he has access to Thief Lights, a special visual effect that only he can see. This points out hidden objects and pathways.
Thief's Reflex: Austin's training with the Talons starts paying off! He will now dodge the first attack thrown at him every turn!
Thief's Focus: Austin's Thief Lights allows him and his team to see and attack any invisible foes!
Thief's Warning: Austin's Thief Lights are always tracking danger. As a result, he's unable to be First Struck! He can also dodge moves that are normally unavoidable, such as grabs or other attacks!
Venom:
Area of Expertise: Flying enemies, Defense Piercing, Versatile, Debuffing.
Field Ability: Venom can glare at any nearby opponents, causing them to stop in fear. Entering battle with them will automatically allow a First Strike and will Paralyze the frontmost foe for 2 turns. Has a short range and takes some time to wind up, however.
Idle Animation: Venom flaps his wings to stretch them before he looks at the camera and hastily hides his damaged wing. He continues to glare at the camera until an input is detected.
Battle Animation: Venom hovers behind Austin. Occasionally, he loses some height and quickly flaps his wings to gain it back.
Special Characteristics: Venom will hover in combat or be perched on Austin's shoulder. Due to this, he can't be hit by any ground-based moves. He'll be injured for an extra turn if hit, however, due to his past injuries.
Element Shard Upgrade: Venom's attack Pow goes up by 1!
Element Shard Upgrade: Venom's attack Pow goes up by 1!
FP Moves:
Snipe: Venom fires an extremely accurate shot at a target of his choice. Pow: 4 (5) Deals double damage to Flying enemies. Pierces Defense. Style: Aim
Poison Bomb: (2 FP) Venom chucks a homemade vial of poisonous smoke at the enemies. Depending on how well he performs the action commands, this can Poison enemies for 1-3 turns. This doesn't affect enemies immune to Poison. Style: Memory
Vulture's Mark: (3 FP) Venom marks a foe as a priority target, causing the enemy to take 2 extra damage from Austin, Ivory, Ebony, or Venom himself. Should any of them take the target out, they'll earn extra coins. Can only prioritize one enemy at a time. Bosses will shrug this effect off after 2 attacks from Austin's party. Style: Aiming
Overwatch: (5 FP) Venom watches over Austin and protects him from 3 attacks. Should an enemy target him, Venom will shoot an arrow at them, dealing 3 damage and stopping the attack. Bosses can't be stopped, but they'll still take the point of damage.
Tag Out: Venom swaps places with either Ebony or Ivory.
Animation: Venom will throw his cloak back and disappear in a storm of leaves. If Ivory is picked, she'll do a front flip out of the leaves and pose. If Ebony is picked, she'll simply wait until the leaves stop, appearing in a crouched stance and flipping her hood up before getting into her battle stance.
Ebony:
Area of Expertise: Healing and Buffing
Field Ability: By spending 5 FP, Ebony can perform on-field first aid, healing 15 HP to any party member.
Idle Stance: Ebony will look at her satchel before digging through it. She'll periodically throw out some junk or pull out an item, inspect it, and put it back after a while. If an input is pressed during this, she'll flinch and close her satchel before giving the camera an apologetic look.
Battle Stance: Ebony will stand with her dagger out, ready to strike at a moment's notice. Her hood will occasionally fall into her face, causing her to blow some air, making it go back to its usual spot.
Element Shard Upgrade: Ebony's attack pow goes up by 1!
Element Shard Upgrade: Ebony's healing abilities heal an additional 5 HP!
FP Moves:
Dagger Twirl: Ebony performs a swift dagger strike that hits twice. Pow: 2 (3) per hit. Pierces defense. Can't hit Flying enemies. Style: Timing
Cheer: (2 FP) Ebony fills a teammate with confidence, giving them an extra 2 points of damage for their next attack. Does nothing if she messes up the command, however. Style: Memory, Doesn't stack with Austin's Thief's Intuition. Can target Party Members as well.
First Aid: (5 FP) Ebony uses her skills as a medic to mend a Party Leader for 10 HP. Should she ace her Action Command, she can heal up to 15 HP! Style: Memory
Smelling Salts: (10 FP) Ebony revives a knocked-out hero with her personal stash of smelling salts, bringing them back with Half HP plus an additional 5 HP. She can do this for any leader, and she doesn't need to be behind the knocked-out leader to do so. Doesn't work if she fails the command. Style: Charge
Tag Out: Ebony swaps places with either Ivory or Venom. Ebony will wave before throwing down a smoke bomb from her satchel. If Ivory is selected, she'll flip out of the smoke cloud and pose. If Venom is picked, Venom will flap his wings strongly, blowing the cloud away before he starts flying.
Ivory:
Area of Expertise: Single Target Attacks, Item Stealing
Idle Stance: Ivory's ears twitch before she glances around quickly. Eventually, a butterfly will land on her head, making her stop and swat at it. Afterward, she'll try to pounce on it every time it lands on the ground, missing. If an input is detected, Ivory will stop and wave to the butterfly as it flies away.
Battle Stance: Ivory will energetically bounce on her feet and twirl her dagger. She'll start flourishing her dagger with some impressive maneuvers before she drops it. Embarrassed, she'll pick it up and go back to her default Battle Stance.
Field Ability: By spending 5 FP, Ivory can stalk a selected enemy, instantly taking the front enemy out if its health is less than 10. If not, she will deal 5 damage to the enemy once the battle starts. Taking an enemy out this way guarantees they'll drop an item.
Element Shard Upgrade: Ivory's attack pow goes up by 1!
Element Shard Upgrade: Ivory can now dodge the first attack towards her every turn!
FP Moves:
Pounce: Ivory performs an impressive leap with the help of some vines, striking a foe with her dagger upon reaching them. Pow: 3 (4) Can't hit Fiery enemies. Style: Aim
Tag Team: (2 FP) Ivory prepares herself to assist Austin during his attacks for 2 turns. If Austin or Ivory finishes an enemy during this time, they'll earn extra coins. Pow: 2. Ivory will attack whatever target Austin attacks. This will be canceled should Ivory be injured during the stance. Coins earned depend on the level of the enemy. She can still use her turn afterward to use her other abilities or attacks.
Cat's Eye: (5 FP) Ivory attacks a foe and steals a random assortment of money or a random item. The amount of money or item rarity goes up depending on how hurt the target is, but there's a chance she won't nab anything. Pow: 3 (4), Can't hit Spiky or Fiery enemies. Style: Timing
Feline Fury: (10 FP) Ivory loses her patience and mauls an enemy. Has a chance of instantly defeating a foe. The chance increases as the enemy's health lowers. An enemy taken out this way drops an item. Can target all ground foes. Style: Charge
Tag Out: Swaps places with Ebony or Venom.
Animation: Ivory will give the enemy a cheeky salute before she does a flip, detonating a smoke bomb when she disappears. If Ebony is picked, she'll wait until the smoke clears in a crouched position. She'll then stand up, flip her hood up, and get into her battle stance. If Venom is picked, he'll blow the smoke away with a strong swing of his cloak before he starts flying.
Temporary Party Members:
Luigi:
Position: Party Leader
Area of Expertise: Healing and Buffing
Starting Stats: 15 HP, 40 FP, 0 BP
Field Ability: Can set up a Picnic for 5 FP, which will heal everyone sans Luigi for 10 HP and FP. Has a naturally higher jump than any party leader.
Battle Talent: Easier Action Commands for everything but takes 2 damage from all sources of damage unless blocked.
Moves:
Leap: Luigi performs an impressive leap that can bounce on an enemy three times! Pow: 1 (3 if both commands are inputted) Can't hit Spiky Enemies. Style: Timing.
Words of Encouragement: (5 FP) By complimenting a party member or cheering them on, you fill them with vigor! Raises target's Pow by 1, 2, or 3 for 2 turns depending on the success of the Action Command. Style: Memory
Emergency Snack: (5 FP) Luigi pulls out a snack from his personal stash! Heals 10 HP to the selected target. Can target himself with this move. Style: None
Banquet: (20 FP) Luigi whips up a grand feast for his party! If performed perfectly, it will heal all party members to full HP and FP, Raise everyone's defense by 2 and their Pow by 2! Luigi will also get the HP heal, attack, and defense buff but won't get the FP heal. Will only heal 10 HP and FP if the command is blotched. Style: Memory, Charge, and Timing. Will randomize the order of commands every time.
Kolorodo
Position: Partner
Area Of Expertise: Defense Piercing, Debuffing, Item Usage
Field Ability: Kolorodo can spend 5 FP to dig up an item for the party. The item will be either a Super Mushroom, Honey Syrup, or Fire Flower.
FP Moves:
Chisel: Kolorodo carefully chips away at an enemy, dealing damage and permanently lowering a foe's defense by 1 for the entire battle. This can stack with other defense-lowering skills and the permanent debuff as well. Pow: 1 (2) Can't target flying, front-spiky or fiery enemies. Style: Charge
Improvise (3 FP): Kolorodo rummages through his pack and randomly selects one of five items to use instantly.
Stone: Kolorodo pulls out a random stone and chucks it at an enemy. Pow: 2
Shovel: Kolorodo pulls out a shovel and digs rapidly, sending stones at the entire enemy party. Pow: 2
Camera: Kolorodo pulls out his camera and takes a picture of the enemies. The bright flash will Blind (Dizzy) foes for 2 turns.
Dustpan: Kolorodo pulls out a dustpan before sneezing and covering the party in a large cloud of dust, raising their evasion for 2 turns.
Pencil: Kolorodo pulls out a pencil and notepad, calculating the angles before he uses something from the environment to attack. (For instance, if a pillar is nearby, he'll calculate the right angle and whatnot to tip it on them) Pow: 5 to all enemies.
Chainston
Position: Partner
Area of Expertise: Single Target, Protection
Field Ability: Chainston can give Mario a ride, vastly increasing his speed and allowing him to clear gaps he can't jump over. (Same functionality as Parakarry pretty much)
FP Moves:
Chomp: Chainston takes a bite out of an opponent. Pow: 7, Can hit all but flying, Style: Timing
Guard Dog (3 FP): Chainston moves forward to protect his current Party Leader, chomping whoever attacks and stopping the attack. He's unavailable to act next turn around (Think of Bow's Outta Sight)
Changes from Main Game
- Tubba's Castle now holds a lot more Blubbas. (More Clubbas are inside the castle.)
- Green Clubba's big brothers, Red Clubbas, appear to help out Tubba Blubba. (Red Clubbas: 20 HP, 8 Attack (Multi-Hit attack does 1x55 = 10 damage) Regular club attacks will shrink on hit.)
- Bristles decide to step down from TTYD. Apparently, they felt like being a nuisance earlier in Mario's life.
- Green Clubbas toughen up after one too many noogies from their big brothers. (1 HP, 4 Attack)
- More extraterrestrials are found in Tubba Blubba's Castle.
- Bow decides to scare foes a new way (New Super Rank attack is now Screech (6 FP, 3 Piercing damage to all enemies,)
- Bootler gets in on the action too. (Super Rank attack: Tea Time. Give a foe a relaxing cup of tea. Heals 10 HP but puts the target asleep for 3 turns. Sleep is guaranteed, even on sleep-resistant foes. Can't give bosses a cup of tea.)
- These item-swapping bandits are everywhere! Now there's a Power Quake badge where a D-Down Jump Badge used to be.
- They did take some of the oomph from it, however, (Power Quake does 1 less damage.
- Band of brothers now guard the Mega Rush Badge. Statuses and dodges are needed.