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Disclaimer:
Chapter 43
Mewni Crisis:
The Last Prelude
"The lad needs help."
"You heard what the Dark Council said."
"Why should I care what those tombers decide?" the ghost scoffed as he drifted about, "We trained all our students well, all deserving of their title and benefits of station. And that includes calling upon their comrades in arms."
"...but Marco is the only one left."
"..."
The Historian sighed, sitting on the log bench and gazed out into his garden, his thoughts wandering back to all his previous students, the Lizard put his hands over his face.
"Marco needed an army and we were useless."
"...'tis not just your burden. I hoped that the Dark Council would be moved by the situation itself, but it seems our past prodigies weighed heavily on their minds."
"You seem to forget we did spat in their faces and trained more Dark Knights against their wishes and warnings. I don't think we made the wrong decision in defying them, however I can see why they would put their boots down at our request."
The ghost looked at the hunched form of the Lizard, he looked out into the Grove, seeing the vibrant growing life in deep contrast to the Dark Council, dwelt in the dark and festered.
"I think...they are still angry and bitter at their predicament, it would have been a mercy for them to simply pass into a higher plane...I, too seriously considered countless times on going back to the Ancestral Plane...be with my family...my friends...but I know if I leave, I would be turning my back on a responsibility I know I have here. Especially in such dire times for Marco Diaz."
The Lizard bent low and pluck a blade of grass, he stared at it for a moment before he blew it, landing among the rest of the grass.
Just another in the pile.
"I know we slighted them but I still don't care, Marco may overcome this battle but at the cost he could pay? That he has already paid?"
"...then how far then do you intend to go?"
Buttercup leaned back his face muddled with conflict and weariness, "...my brethren would probably join if they thought it meant the total annihilation of Mewni, but they won't lift a talon unless they know they had a guaranteed victory. Even then, they might just turn around and attack Marco's forces after they've been soften up by waging war with Darcy."
"Just as much as gamble, I daresay, if we leave Marco to handle this on his own."
"He isn't, the Elementals, his steadfast allies are still here."
The ghost liken the words, as he drifted and put a ghostly hand on the Lizard's shoulder,
"Then we should join the fray. And when I say we, I mean you." "Gee, and for once I thought you'd actually fight."
The ghost ruefully shook his head, a look crossing his face.
"He is our student, Buttercup, we would be poor teachers if we don't show him how to wage a war."
The Historian chuckled, but inwardly shuddered, hoping to keep that part of his life locked away for eternity. He was done with it, he had done enough.
His mental conflict slowed when he noticed his lovely wife walking towards him, wisely Oblivion sank into the ground leaving the two Lizards alone,
She smiled as she gently caressed his cheek,
"My dear Buttercup, what foolishness are you up to now?"
He nuzzled her hand feeling her tremble as did his heart, but quickly harden it as he spoke,
"The only one I know: war."
.
Marco greeted another batch of fighters, they looked frighten beyond their minds, they shook and nervously stood as the Dark Knight told them they would be triumph over the Mewni Scourge, Darcy.
He could see in their desperate eyes they were here merely because fear and self-preservation forced them. He didn't fault them, he understood what they wanted: to survive. He wished he could inspire them like Sir Lavabo, but even the older knight admitted the last stragglers were on their wits end, liable to panic at the sight of Darcy's thugs.
Marco called the older knights, the Monster captains, Sir Lavabo, the Knights of the Hood, Higgs, Kelly, Hekapoo, Solid Spider, Tad and the Elementals into the war council room, they sat along the long table as a massive map laid out showing all of Mewni, many colored stone pieces set on it.
Marco held back a sigh as he spoke,
"More have come in this morning but they are easily spooked and hesitant at the thought of fighting, I can't marshal them all into the battlefield without the rest losing heart."
Around the table many shared sympathetic and understanding looks, however Sir Lavabo spoke up with everyone agreeing, "Be that as it may, they came here knowing they would face Darcy's wrath head-on. I understand them being overtly nervous, frighten even, but they came nonetheless to fight her."
"Station them in the rear, in the castle or on the defenses, with Darcy, nowhere is safe regardless." Hekapoo growled, Higgs and Kelly grunted in agreement having their own experience with the Fiend.
"Best not tell them that." Sines sighed.
"Too true." Said Sir Conrad.
"How many do you intend to take into the field?"
"How many do we have?"
Hekapoo snapped her fingers as a clone was summon and rush out of the room, she came back a minute later with rolls of parchment in her arms and handed it to Marco.
He eyed the clone for a moment before read the scrolls, tallying the numbers quickly before he sighed,
"...400-ish is not a lot to work with and if were putting numbers aside for the defenses...it seems like we got about 300 taking to the field."
The room fell silent at the number.
"Lord Marco, are you going to marshal the troops all by yourself?" Raymond Johansen asked.
Marco hesitate to answer, he intend to but...his eyes drifted to the older knights and captains, to Hekapoo.
"Not so, Raymond," Sir Lavabo spoke up, "Indeed Marco can do it, but with as small of a number as this...I suggest we take command of these groups, split it into 10 groups of 30, that way Marco can focus on dealing with Darcy head on while we contend with her forces."
Marco liked the idea but Hekapoo's clone gave him an idea, "I should still be able to marshal the troops, Hekapoo can make clones to ferry orders for me. In fact, Hekapoo—"
"I'm going to put a full stop on that scheme." The lady blacksmith stated flatly.
Everyone looked at her, "You're thinking I can make a whole bevy of clones, yeah?"
He nodded.
She scowled.
"Sorry to break it to you, but when I was held captive Darcy broke off my horns, to steal my appearance but somehow siphon my powers as well. I can make maybe 20 clones, not enough for this battle, you'll certainly need more for how violent things could get. And if our whole plan relies on my clones, it will be a bad idea if I can only make so few. Not enough to get your orders through and this army will fall apart."
"I see..."
"It's not a bad idea, just not for this one." Hekapoo apologized.
"That's too bad." Kelly said, the blacksmith acknowledged it with a nod.
"..."
Marco glanced at the map before fishing out a handful of stones from a satchel and placed it on the map, he counted 10 and laid it in front of the castle.
"We'll be splitting into groups of 10, having an experienced leader for each 30 will be beneficial."
"Who will handle the castle defenses? If we're all out in the field then—"
"I'll do it." Tad volunteered, everyone looked at him in surprise most especially Kelly, he tried to play it cool but his legs was a little wobbly, "Look, I'm no help on the battlefield, I know I can fight but I would be a hindrance out there."
Hekapoo eyed the ball of fur ball for a moment, "I can leave you my clones, 10 in the field and 10 in the castle, they'll be the ones helping issue out orders and they wont be an easy target being so out of the way."
Tad nodded, he glanced at Kelly and gave her a tight smile, she returns one before turning back as Solid Spider spoke up,
"I'll be with you Marco, I'll obscure my face so I don't get mistaken with you."
"Why? You should body guard Tad."
"No, I mean Tad should be guarded, I don't disagree, but if you're handling Darcy head-on, Liquid Lizard will not be far behind. I will handle my brother. I will put a stop to him."
Again the room grew silent at Solid Spider request.
Marco weighed it carefully, his clone was indeed a good fighter, being in any of the 10 would be a boon to them but...
"How do you intend to stop Liquid Lizard?"
"...I don't know but I'd rather it be me than anyone else."
"..." Marco eyed his clone for a moment before reached for Shadesbane, Hallow had given it to him to include Night Fang, insisting it would be helpful, it was a normal broadsword that faintly glowed.
I want Solid Spider to use this sword, even if it was from the Elementals...but it could mean the most severe of consequence for...
Marco felt his grip on the sword tighten but then felt it being tugged out of his grasp, the clone unsheathed the glowing sword, staring at the bright steel before him, "...I can see it in your face, Marco, don't feel guilty what could happen between the two of us. Darcy...said a lot of terrible things to me when she rampaged in the prison. If there's a chance I can save my brother, I'll take it...but I also know what it means if I can't."
The clone took the sword and solemnly took his seat again.
Kelly felt her hand tighten around the enchanted claymore the Dark Knight had given her.
"Sorry, but can we backtrack on the castle defenses?"
"Sure, Sir Lavabo."
"I will stay behind with Tad and the Hekapoo clones, you know why."
Marco paused before he realized he had intended to send the old knight into the frenzy of battle while he no longer could.
"Ah, that's right."
"I appreciate you still think I'm a spry squire."
Higgs ruefully shook her head at the last bit.
The meeting continued getting into the finer details of their plan of defense and offense, thinking of every avenue they could for the oncoming onslaught, knowing their time were running incredibly short.
The war council were taken aback when Elementals asked everyone to produce their weapons, laying it on the table.
Unsure why but doing what they were asked regardless the Elementals ran a finger over their weapons, the group watched in fascination as a glowing rune was etched into them. Marco helped the blind Automata as she checked Kelly, Nickel Wise Fiction and Hekapoo's.
"So what do these runes do? I mean its pretty." Said Elma TeaGod, Mizar HQ nodded.
It's a small charge of our powers, its not the same as our Blessing to Marco, but this much shouldn't hurt.
Yuki tapped the rune she gave to Raymond.
As did Raigu for Astoria Deplorable.
"…can you do this for everyone else in the army?"
It would be...unwise, also there is the matter of the toll it could pose on us.
We will be fighting alongside Marco, he will need every bit against that bitch Darcy. However, you need the best chance for survival as well, after all you have his back.
"Is there a reason why you can't just..." Kelly started but stopped seeing the Elemental tug on their shawls and veils, hiding the burn scars they had received from the Fell Flames.
This is the best we can do for all of you, aside from this castle and the constructs, we...wish we could do more.
The group let the words settle as they looked over the glowing glyphs on their weapons, this was enough right? Weapons enchanted by the Elementals of Nature...this would tip the scales of victory in their favor...a Dark Knight of great skill and strength...an army of brave fighters, fitted better than any kingdom army thus far...siege and war machines and a mighty castle for a base...
This is enough...
...
Is this enough...?
Marco could feel the uncomfortable tension as the Elementals slid back to their former places, lounging on their couch or chairs, he addressed any more concerns they had. When the talks began to dwindle to more and more nitpicking, Automata sighed loudly, standing up and addressing them,
I call this meeting adjourned.
You are getting nowhere with this aimless talk.
"...surely not Lady Elemental." said Alec Ro, she frowned and turned her head at Marco.
Instead she faced Higgs, but no one corrected her.
You are all wound up, your army is wound up, let us...have a feast, a little merry-making to dispel this storm of emotions lingering in the air.
We may be on the cusp of the Mewni's fate, however having Darcy darken every waking hour in preparation of it does her only a favor.
You need to believe in your own victory.
Marco smiled at Automata, indeed she was right, the imminent battle were fraying their nerves raw, they would be in poor form against Darcy in this rate.
"Then let's have a feast."
.
The preparation came quick, most of the fighters had been squared away with their gears and roles, helped with getting the festivities ready.
Cauldrons, cooking pits, tables and makeshift kitchens were quickly assembled and began in earnest the feast they would partake in, many of the fighters' mood took a more positive air, doing something akin to normalcy than doing drills or battle tactics.
The castle kitchen handled more precise cooking, Marco hurried along with the Elementals as they tended to many dishes and entrees they decided to make.
Automata with her condition made the silverware, Dunes decided to make Sandmen to patrol in place of the fighters, along with the knights who insisted they were not culinary inclined.
Higgs snorted at the thought as she slid cooked pies out of the oven and replaced them.
Kelly stacked the prepared food on a cart and wheeled them out, the dining hall was already expansive but it would fit only so much of them, more tables and chairs were made and with some rearranging managed to use the entrance hall and corridors.
The wafting smells of sizzling and smoky meat, fresh veggies and fruits, tantalizing sweets, salted fish and crustacean, savory pastas and stews, frothing beers and drinks hung heavily in the air.
Hekapoo got her clones laying out fine cloths for the tables, sneaking a piece of finger food as cart passed as she directed her clones getting further and further out of the castle, the dusk air greeted her as she glanced at the many fighters had began to help themselves to a mug of an open cask and barrel.
"Whoa starting a tad early, aren't ya?"
They quickly slid the mugs out of view.
Hekapoo rolled her eyes before she took a mug and helped herself to one before she turned around and went back into the castle,
"Don't let me catch you again~!"
The moment she was out of view, they took another swig before they rushed off to do some very busy work.
The blacksmith chuckled to herself as she drained the mug before dropping it in a nearby vase.
Hey!
"I'm not sorry."
Dunes glared at Hekapoo as she confidently walked away.
A second later she ran before Dunes chased after her,
How about I put some sand in your ears, lady!?
"If only you could catch me!"
Kelly frowned seeing Hekapoo quickly leap through an open window followed by Dunes, who pulled out pocket sand from her dress.
Despite the shenanigans and grease fire that erupted in the kitchen, the tables and near every corner of the castle were happily decorated, Marco could even hear some players in the camp playing a lute, flute and mismatch clinking of spoons.
"Mhmmm, sounds like they are starting in earnest."
Marco turned to see Sir Lavabo smirking, he grinned and nodded in agreement.
"Although, I think the army should be addressed by their Dark Knight before they enjoy themselves too much, wouldn't you agree?"
"I think my words would be taken more seriously if they were a little soused."
The old knight laughed at the sentiment before he waved off to him, "I'll get them rounded up."
Marco watched the old knight enlist the help of Hekapoo, Higgs, Kelly and Elementals before he made his way up the castle, the rear balcony would be his planned stage for his address. Each step up the stair seemed to echo somberly despite the apparent noise and din of rushing feet and bodies, Marco took his time, each step weighed on his mind and faster than his liking he found himself on the top of the landing.
He stood for a moment, taking in what he needed to do and what it would entail.
He knew what he had to do.
And what it would mean for those that followed.
Are you ready to speak to your army, Dark Knight of Mewni?
He turned to see Automata standing a bit away, her blindfold present but now she was decked out in a black and white battle dress, her hands resting on her cane. He frowned at the title she used, clearly she was trying get him out of his funk right before a big speech,
"Heh, I am also Studmuffin, Mercenary Extraordinaire."
With that Marco stride confidently into the balcony, the evening air greeting him, he could still feel the heat of dying kitchen and campfires, their embers still winking the in the darkness.
He could see the army looking up at him with anticipation, he could spy the Knights of the Hood, the captains and knights, Kelly's bushy hair and Hekapoo's vivid red hair, many looked hopefully but then he could still see many fearful and doubtful.
"Good evening all who opposes Darcy!"
"...?"
"Yeah!"
"YES!"
"What did he say?"
Marco glanced down to see the front could clearly hear him but the rest merely looked at each other, obviously trying to decipher what was said.
Ahem, perhaps this would help?
Marco saw Automata handing him a metal megaphone, he quickly thanked her and resumed speaking, holding back his surprise when his voice came out of not only the megaphone but the many pots, tankards and other metal instruments, reaching far into the camp and castle. Automata clasp her hands together channeling her powers, her cane hanging off her wrist,
"Brave fighters, warriors, those driven by justice, vengeance, fear and survival, I welcome you all.
Let us all celebrate tonight with all the revelry; for this day, is final day that Darcy will know of peace...of respite...of doing what she wants with impunity.
For it will be surely her last."
The crowd fell into a hush as Marco continued, feeling a steadily building inner fire,
"You all have bear witness and endured what Darcy's has done; and she has done great many terrible things here on Mewni, but do you know what she hasn't done?
Getting away with it.
Because she has no idea who she has crossed."
A cheer erupted, yelling his name but Marco shook his head, a fearsome grin spreading across his face.
"Flattering, but no.
What she doesn't know is that Mewni is home to a shitload of badasses and heroes she has never even heard of.
But she will tomorrow.
You'll carve it into her memory and more importantly into her flesh.
And any of her thugs and goons that fell under her banner.
The toll they have exacted on Mewni is great
And we have come to collect what we're owned." "WITH INTEREST!"
The crowd cheered again, many of them clanging their weapons or tankards, many drumming and pounding on tables and their chests.
"Darcy thinks it's all over, that everything is coming to a close, that Mewni is done.
Frankly, we're just getting started.
So my army of badasses and heroes, here's your first order:
Forward march!
Into this castle and into this immaculate feast!"
Marco felt himself trembling as the crowd roared and cheered in approval, storming into the castle, ready to have their fill.
He watched them for a moment longer, before he turned and started back inside, gently taking Automata's hand as they entered the castle, the echoes of laughter and merriment apparent.
.
"HEY GET OFF THE CHANDELIER!"
"To the window~! To the-!"
"Keep your night-crawlers out of the pudding!"
"Watch where you're goin-you made me drop my croissant!"
Kelly, Higgs and Golem tried to eat their food with the least amount of interruption however the rest of the army decided the feast would be a full contact event, the Elementals certainly did not help with them adding to the mayhem, especially Yuki who was making snow-cones at an alarming rate.
"I've seen more, urk-discipline in a barn!" Higgs hissed as two fighters bumped her seat in causing her to collide with the table.
"Maybe they'll listen after I spank them with the flat side of my claymore." Kelly growled as she felt crumbles and bits land on her from above, a Mewman and Monster in opposite sides of the room with outlandish precision managed to toss a cookie and cake slice overhead, each landing in their mouths causing the audience to cheer.
They excitedly heft up a watermelon and pineapple, ready to launch it overhead.
Higgs turned away from the absurdity and took a bite out of her mutton before she heard the splat of fruit, a chunk managing to slide and bump into her foot underneath the table.
The squire lifted the tablecloth, ready to scoot the busted fruit away when she saw miniature wooden toys cleaning under, blinking she looked at the floor more closely and realized a great many toys were zigzagging and dodging from be crushed while they cleaned.
"What in Mewni?" Higgs gasped seeing the scene before her.
That would be Moku, she's a very tidy Sister.
Higgs looked up at Golem as she drank from her glass before pouring herself more wine.
Higgs glanced down again and saw a wooden toy pushing the fruit away, she reached down and picked it up, it frantically tried to pry itself free as she studied,
"Oh...it's so cute~"
The toy paused before it reached over to its other arm and pulled it free from its socket, pointing the broken end at her with a nasty looking splinter, Higgs froze before she wisely put it down and it continued to work, although with a more angry demeanor.
Kelly stared it for a moment before she return back to her plate.
Golem merely chuckled as the squire went back to her mutton.
.
Marco found himself being dragged across the dining hall, the Knights of the Hood somehow catching him and leading him table to table trying all the food he prepared, giving toasts to the fighters before another member came along and pulled him into another round of table hopping.
"To Lord Marco!"
"Hear! Hear!"
"Speech!"
Marco raised his cup as the table erupted in cheers even before he started speaking, shaking his head he took a sip.
"Bruv, I think I'm already drunk, I thought I saw Lord Marco disappearing upstairs."
"That was Solid Spider." the dark knight replied, causing the group to look at him in confusion.
Immediately, Marco waved it off and set off another round of toasting.
Marco mentally recounted that his benign clone typically hid or wore his hood up to keep the confusion to a minimum, deflating his mood a tad.
The Knights of the Hood loudly boasted about the Dark Knight, some of them even recounting outlandish stories about the painting they had seen in the halls, one even swearing she saw it all happen, albeit in a dream.
When they began to sing, Marco felt something grasp his ankles, he glanced down to see Moku winking at him and without warning phase him through the wooden floor and into what looked like a small workshop for toys, the Wood Elemental grinned,
Couldn't help but notice you need an escape route~
That and the singing was getting to me.
Above them they could hear the sudden yells and yelps of the missing Marco.
"How did you do that? I mean I've seen you do it, but..."
The Wood Elemental looked smug,
A lady never tells~
Marco took the hint and chuckled, "I suppose she shouldn't." He leaned over the table to see a bunch of wooden toys, trying to walk however it seemed their joints weren't completely carved or smoothed. Moku took one of them and waved a hand over it before setting it down again, the wooden doll gave them a quizzical look before it climbed down and ran off.
"Don't want to be part of the festivities?"
No, I like parties...I just don't want to see less tomorrow...
"...?"
Moku tuck her hands behind her back and smiled,
All their smiling faces, it would break my heart...seeing fewer than I see now.
You gave a rousing speech, I know some of them weren't entirely convinced, but they can pour their anxious and distress into something else for a change.
Do something that doesn't make them feel powerless.
"...do you feel powerless, Moku?"
Hardly, I'm the proud daughter of Prima, Moku the Wood Elemental.
"You don't have to put a front for me."
...I know.
Marco softly grunted as the Elemental ran and embrace him, she shook and shiver, she felt so terribly small in his arms.
It's coming Marco...
I can feel it in my roots, my branches, my bark and all...
When we fought Darcy, we knew the kind of blood and mayhem she would spill.
We hoped you would succeed, but who could have known Darcy would continue to devour Magick and Magick Blood.
Elevating herself even more...
Now, you're backed into a corner and that bitch has more Magick than she deserves.
How many will be alive in the end?
"Moku..."
Will my Sister even be alive at the end of it?
What of my Sisters asleep within you...if you die, then they will surely perish...and I...
Marco clasp his arms around her, feeling her break down as she cried and wailed, tears shed for Ignis, Undine, Slyph, Gnome; praying her Sister would wake and the ones that came with her not get hurt anymore than they already have.
The Dark Knight consoled her the best he could, telling her he'd fight for her, her Sisters, that he would not let them get hurt nor him perish at the hands of Darcy. He got her to sit on her work bench as she slowed in her distress, enough to fashion a small toy wooden soldier and set it on the table, it sat there motionless, before she gently prod it causing it to spring to life.
The two stared at it as it struggled to stand, walking sluggishly before it began to make its way off the table, sliding down the leg of the table and running to similar looking toys, it paused before they all left as a group.
...like toy soldiers~
"Feeling better, Moku?"
No.
But thanks for being here, Marco.
Marco felt himself smile, but only on the outside, he gently wiped the corner of her eye, kissing her on the forehead,
"I should be thanking you, even when recklessly called, you still answer, you all did."
He bid to the Elemental and left the room, seeing the toys pull trash and debris out of the dining hall and into lower parts of the castle to dispose of it. He found a flight of stairs and returned to the feast, which very much still in full swing.
He found himself enjoying the rowdy atmosphere, seeing everyone for at least tonight, forget the impending battle to come.
He went table to table, group to group, surprising the lot and drinking and sharing bite with them.
He only knew them a few days, heck some even just a few hours, but he wanted to know them just as they knew so much about him, just like how the Knights of the Hood were.
He listened to their struggles and fears, how many of them were alike in situation but not as an individual.
They were their own person.
Each their own story.
Marco sat down with those cloister away from the rest of the feast, others outside of the rowdy castle, again and again, he met with those in his army who would stand against Darcy. He understood why Moku didn't want to get to know so many when only a handful could be left, if any at all...but Marco knew he wouldn't forgive himself if he treated them just like pieces on a board.
The night seemed to stretch and the feast began to wane, many partying themselves to an early bed, others clearly drunk found the softest floor or vase to hurl in much to Dunes dismay, while the many left sat around tables merely enjoying the quieter feast.
Marco saw Kelly, Higgs, Sir Lavabo, Sines, Raymond Johansen, Bell Luck, Astoria Deplorable and Elf Usu lounging together, he tiredly waved to them as they scoot apart to make room for him.
"Saw you table hopping, lad."
"No fair! You somehow evaporated through the floor!"
"I swear the wiki is never going to keep up if you keep inventing new powers."
Marco tried to argue but Kelly wisely slid a cup at him and got them all to make an impromptu toast,
"To Marco and his army of badasses."
"Aw, yeah!"
"I like this one!"
"I concur!"
The table drank deeply before Marco made himself cozy in his seat, the group fell into a comfortable silence, many of them feeling depleted from the hours long feast not to mention prep.
"Marco, I've been meaning to ask..." Sir Lavabo started, the dark knight pulled himself out his slouch straighten up, "Why can't the Elementals use their full power? They've enchant our weapons, made this castle, the siege and war machines, what's stopping them from going all out?"
Marco paused at the question, feeling many eyes drift to him, "They have been going all-out to an extent...while they are inside of me, I channel their powers however at a weaker degree and using too much poses a risk to my wellbeing, however I can switch, meld elements and shield them from harm. But you're right, as Elementals of Nature they would easily trounce any foe they come across, Darcy would be a cake walk."
However, its her blasted Magick.
Automata suddenly appeared, she tapped her cane getting closer to the table,
Magick and being enhanced by Magick is difficult for us to overcome, it defies Nature and logic really.
That said, it also poses a real threat to us, more so that normal weapons.
Unfortunately, the playing field isn't in our favor either, Mewni's land is saturated in Magick, it take a great deal of effort for us to use our power here.
And its a double-edge sword, the more we try to assert our Element here, the more likely we will turn Primal and then we'll have another mess on our hands.
"Primal?" Kelly asked, Automata nodded.
Us Elementals didn't always have this physique before, we used to be embodiments of nature or rather catastrophes of Nature.
But over time that changed and its the forms you see today.
Marco gave the Metal Elemental a discreet glance, knowing that was half-true.
"I think you've helped plenty, and I don't think anyone would deny that." Raymond acknowledged, many nodded in agreement, "Knowing you will be us tomorrow is a big confidence boost."
Automata smiled before she excused herself.
Sir Lavabo watched her leave, and without missing a beat asked Marco,
"Which is the prettiest Elemetal, Marco?"
Marco barely held back a spit-take.
Kelly and Higgs slowly turn to face the Dark Knight, Raymond and Sines held back their snickers, Marco mentally smothered some choice words for his old mentor, "They're all very pretty, Sir Lavabo."
"Ah."
Just say its Ignis, Marco.
Or Seraph then she'll be less angry with you.
The table turned to see Automata grinning evilly at him before she tap her cane for the closest exit path.
Marco sunk into his seat to avoid the stares from Higgs and Kelly, Sir Lavabo shamelessly drinking from his cup, very smug and proud with himself.
"Is there anyone you fancy, Lord Marco?" Sines asked, whether on purpose or curiosity, Marco did not welcome the added attention, especially since many tables that were empty were now being filled with interested parties.
"Ah, that's not, er, important." Marco asserted however a Monster came forward, a drunk Tad in her arms.
"Not true, Lord Marco! Tad here said you're an unstoppable love machine!"
"!?"
"Ayoooo?"
"Hol' up, wait a minute..."
"That is slander, and I shall not stand for it." Marco said flatly.
"But it said so in this trash novel!" she pulled out a book, Tad gave a drunken laugh, his body lulling to the side.
"The fact you called it a trash novel just nullifies it as a credible source." Marco sighed as the Monster merely gasped, scandalized.
Marco hoped it was the end of the talks but when the Knights of the Hoods interject they have been working closely with Tad and all the trash novels they were a part of, the Dark Knight quickly made himself scarce as some of them were down bad in description.
"Oh my!" "How lewd!"
Marco stalked away, happy the feast was a great success (perhaps?) but he really didn't want to be there when they discuss his fictional love life that Tad had fabricated and financially gained from.
"Lucky bastard is drunk, I bet if I kicked him it wouldn't feel a thing..."
"How about you burn him then?"
Marco glanced over to see Hekapoo looking smug, a rosy tint on her pale alabaster cheeks, "I wish. I still need him for tomorrow so I'll wring him out afterwards." "Heh, whatever you say Sir Lovemachine~" "!?"
Marco glared at the lady blacksmith as she snickered as her body flop over him, clearly she had been drinking past her limit, he felt her soft hot body and even hotter body heat radiate off her.
"Hmmm, that Tad made some really corny trashy novels about you..."
"I bet."
"Mhmmm, I wish you were as sweet and thoughtful though. Not just some bonehead Squire...going behind my back...doing the princess's whims..."
"...I think you drank enough, H-Poo."
He felt her shove him back as she unsteadily stood up, her red hair curtaining her face, "...don't...don't be like this Marco...I can't...I don't..."
"...I don't understand."
Hekapoo's tear stricken face showed itself, orange eyes peering into his, "...why did it have to be her? Why couldn't I have met you first?"
Marco felt himself grimace, "...I don't know Hekapoo...may be it was fate...a canon event..."
Hekapoo glared at him at the explanation, "I don't care if it was! It's just not fair..."
He tried to console her, but she push him away, her red hair swishing as she turned and walked away.
Or tried to as she quickly slumped against a wall, clearly out of it.
It took some coaxing but Marco got her to hold on to him as he took her to a bedroom so she could lay down for the night, she whined and bemoaned being tucked in like a child but was out like a light the moment she had gotten comfortable. Marco sat on the bed for a moment, thinking about what she had said, it had crossed his mind multiple times when he Exiled himself.
How different his life would have been if it was Hekapoo who turned up on Earth instead of Star.
Or Kelly.
Higgs even.
He sighed, shaking his head.
But it wasn't any of them.
It was Star Butterfly, his best friend.
He looked at Hekapoo again before she turned over in her sleep, he took a pillow and prop her, keeping her from rolling onto her back.
He tucked her red bangs behind her pointed ear, before he leaned over and kissed her on the cheek.
"...maybe on my lips next time?" "...how long have you been awake." "...I'm not, I'm dreaming...dreaming and...zzz..."
Marco refrained from snorting at Hekapoo's sleep talk and quietly left.
.
He didn't get far.
Kelly and Higgs were waiting for him just as he left.
"Oh ho, so soon?"
"...I don't what you mean."
They tilt their head to see Hekapoo fast asleep before he closed the door.
"Sheesh~"
"Stop that."
Marco shook his head at the absurdity, but the two didn't let up as they followed him.
"...wait why are you following me?"
"You're turning in, yeah?"
Marco paused thinking about it.
"I thought I would see to the troops, make sure they are sleeping well and not on the floor."
"Moku's toys have been piling them on beds or their tents, besides the other knights and captains have been ushering them along."
"They'll get some sleep. And a wicked hangover."
Marco shook his head, "Moku figured how to fix that, she has something like a smelling salt but for hangovers, she's pretty good in finding cures since I would complain about it when I was figuring out things at Sinful Sips."
The trio continued to walk through the castle, making sure every fighter would be well rested, Marco wisely avoided some fighters who were in deep hot contact with another, Higgs and Kelly blushed but they moved on from the many instances they found. Although, when they did stumble on some young lovers, they were more than happy to be vocal about it,
"Gah!?" "LEAVE!"
"Oi, bruv, you got no eyes!?" "Or tact!"
"Get your own broom closest!"
"This is just like my trash lemon fics!"
Marco sighed before Automata made herself present, handing him the megaphone from earlier, clearing his throat, Marco yelled into the megaphone, causing the entire castle to shudder,
"EVERYONE GO TO BED!
That's an order."
Marco gave back the megaphone as he tiredly made his way for his room, the sound of scurrying feet very apparent.
Moku's head poked out of a nearby wooden table,
My minions will make sure everyone is on a bed, or at least comfortable where they fell asleep.
You should turn in, too, Marco.
The Dark Knight agreed with the Elemental and moved upwards, seeking the warm embrace of his bed and covers. He noticed that Higgs and Kelly didn't budge from his side but didn't make a comment about it, truthfully he didn't know where they were quartered, but the castle was big so surely they found themselves a place to sleep.
He stood in front of his bedroom door, Kelly and Higgs still very much with him.
"...sooo, I'm going to bed."
"I see." "Indeed, you are."
"...how about you?"
The two looked thoughtful for a moment, "Oh, just waiting." "...okay, just tell me what you want." "No."
Marco pinched the bridge of his nose, "Well, why not?"
"..." "Erm..."
The Dark Knight looked at the two of them, clearly their plans weren't meshing well and obviously falling through, Higgs looked bashful while Kelly gave him a coy smile, her eyes not meeting his.
He exhaled before he kissed them both on the cheek causing them to turn beet red, before he waved to both of them, "Better get some sleep, tomorrow is a big day."
"...! I, ugh, Marco!" "I kinda hoped maybe on the li...?"
"Good night."
Despite how sudden he was, his heart hammered in his chest, he hadn't felt like this in ages, especially since he had to forcibly smother all forms of affection he had for others due to Monster Arm. But now, it was overflowing, just as much for his more negative emotions, the positive ones were on the rise, he was making up for lost time unconsciously.
Marco calmed himself, taking deep breaths before he slid into his king size bed, the smaller one already taken away, no doubt Moku had relocated it.
His thoughts was muddled with everything that had happened today, his mind in an uncomfortable whirl before his eyes droop and breathing slowed.
And again he fell into the realm of sleep and dreams...
.
Kelly and Higgs found themselves an empty room with two beds and silently readied themselves for bed.
Even with both backs turned the two of them knew each one was blushing madly.
"That Marco..."
"...so bold..."
The two heard each others whisper, they didn't meet each other eyes as they quickly blew out the candle or lantern before they dived into their bed, more than happy to sleep and avoid anymore conversation.
However sleep came quicker than either would have liked.
The squire awoke first, squinting in the darkness, trying to figure out if she would drift back asleep but to her dismay she knew it would not be.
She felt alert, and in no time wide awake.
She groaned.
Kelly stirred and sat up slowly, she reached for her glasses and groggily greeted her.
"Hah, morning..."
"Same..."
The two sat in their beds for a moment before slowly slipping out, their weapons laid on the lone table in the room.
Much to their surprise, their battle gear was there, too...
Helmet, gauntlets, vambraces, greaves, boots, chainmail, plates and pauldrons, along with other clothes they needed like socks, tunic and whatnot.
The two stared at it for a moment before they dressed slowly, carefully, realizing that today would decide it all...
Kelly held up the Runic Warblade and Higgs sheathed FrostFlame, the atmosphere was heavy before they left the room, not bothering with tidying up the bed.
With their minds wrapped up with getting ready, they didn't realize the whole castle was abuzz with activity, the sound of metal and gear clanging along with the yells and orders from knights and fighters were suddenly jarring to the two of them.
Kelly glanced out of one of the passing windows to see the rear of the castle complete transformed, the tents and makeshift shacks were mostly gone and replaced with many loads and piles of siege ammunition along with the machines that would use it.
Higgs peek out the window before a yell from below got her attention,
"Squire Higgs! I need your assistance! Ah, Kelly, you as well!"
Sir Lavabo waved to them as he passed out what looked like carton pellets, the fighters who had drank too heavily last night took one snapped it in half before they ran for the nearest vase or window and proceeded to vomit.
"What is that?!"
"Hangover-no-more. It clears up your hangover but it makes you vomit as a trade. I've been told to make sure the troops drink to recoup what they lost." Sir Lavabo answered as the place soon stank of puke, however the Elementals insisted that they would take care of it and they should focus on getting prepared for battle. Dunes was beside herself with anger as her vases slowly filled with rancid puke.
Kelly and Higgs helped get the troops sorted out before they left to check on the rest, mostly the squad they would be fighting alongside.
The troops were geared up similarly like Kelly and Higgs, however if they came with their own gear they were welcome to use it, however they needed to be easily identified with either a red painted band on their sleeve or somewhere on their person, they chose the weapon they were most familiar with or had trained on from days before. The Knights of the Hoods members wore their customary red hoodies like Marco, then garbed in their battle gear, they tied a piece of cloth or painted over the glowing glyphs of their weapons, to keep from prying eyes.
They gave each a curt nod before they filed out, leaving for their destined squads as well as helping their fellow squad mates, many of them fretting and nervous at the upcoming battle.
The morning hours seemed to stretch but when a horn sounded from the top of the castle, everyone in the castle knew...
It was time.
If there was any doubt in their minds, it was brushed away...
Hekapoo summoned her clones as one went to fetch Tad, the others went to follow Sir Lavabo.
"Brave denizens of Mewni, hear me now!
Take up your arms and fill your heart with courage, for the battle for Mewni is nigh!"
Marco emerged from his quarters, decked in his red hoodie but as well as his battle attire and weapons crisscrossing through it, he looked below at his army, many looking up in amazement,
"Darcy marches towards certain doom, let us make sure she is prompt!"
With that Marco disappeared from view, the troops moved with greater purpose now, assembling what they needed; many of them rushing to the latrines to relieve themselves. Many were scared, frighten and shaking from head to toe, just as many had the opposite reaction: giddiness, a rush of purpose and even eagerness for combat.
Those who were to man the castle remained while the rest filed out, assembling in front of the castle.
Many fighters appeared on the ramparts, carrying bows, slings, javelins, any projectile they could use.
Moku and Automata appeared alongside them and began to hand out muskets.
You remember how to use these, yes?
"O-of course, Lady Elemental!" a nervous Mewman said, he picked it up and pointed but in his eagerness he was studied, pulled the trigger and stumble back as the musket fired sending smoke and spark. A yell and cry burst forth as the assembled troops instantly dropped into crude guard form as somewhere in the field in front of them erupted.
Yes, just like that.
But when the enemy is close enough to get hit.
The Mewman numbly nodded, the ringing in his ears making the conversation somewhat muted.
Marco joined the forming army, many of them armed and geared to the teeth.
They nervously stood at the ready, many of them fiddling or polishing their weapons. This only grew when Raigu, Yuki, Dunes, Golem and Jewel appeared and began to hand out muskets.
Sister Automata can only make so ammunition and what Marco could spare, but its good for one shot at least.
When you march on Darcy's thugs shoot at them. If things don't get immediately hairy or Darcy doesn't start gunning for Automata, you should be ready to fire again in a minute.
The fighters nodded quickly.
If they were accurate they could deal an early blow to the standing forces.
Even more so with the second shot.
When the last of the troops trickled in, they squared off to their own respective squad.
Of 30 brave fighters...
Many of them wanted to forgo food, too tense to keep it down but when wooden constructs came by with light refreshments, they nibbled on it sparingly.
They took to water, juice, cold drink easily though.
Higgs and Kelly shared a tight smile before they parted from each other.
The Knights of the Hood, an even 10 separated into their own squads, each of them desperately praying.
Solid Spider had his hood up and Shadesbane on his waist, away from the 10 squads, waiting to join Marco.
Hekapoo and her clones manned the castle and split to the squads, the lady blacksmith lengthen the scissor blades, looking at her reflection before something caught her eye.
She looked up to see Marco walking out of the castle, a sword on his hip, a folded shuriken on his back and spear in hand.
His ever present red hoodie was nearly obscured by crisscrossing bits of armor or belts, a pistol also rested on his hip and the other strapped to his thigh holster with a dagger, underneath his vambraces were his Concussive Gauntlets safely wrapped around his wrists.
The assembled fighters looked at him hopefully as he moved forward, the Elementals quickly following him, Solid Spider close behind before Hekapoo decided to move as well. In hopeful lockstep did the rest follow.
Sir Lavabo and Tad looked on from the ramparts, their concern and worried eyes on the Dark Knight before their eyes were drawn forward, far, far into the horizon...
.
Marco didn't know when he wanted to stop but when he did he was a good deal away from the castle, he glanced back to see Hekapoo and Solid Spider had joined him, his eyes fell on the Elementals who began to seep into him. And further still his eyes fell to the mighty castle and the war and siege machines it had on and behind it, commanded by Tad and Sir Lavabo, the clones of Hekapoo and the fighters not capable for the violent throes of war yet desired to fight...
Darcy was sure he'd stand alone...
Yet here he stood in front of the army he had helped muster, all of them in a uniform formation, headed by their leader and second in command, they felt their guts twist as the once sleepy morning was soon broken by the drums, the drums of mismatch stomps of the impending forces...
Marco narrowed his eyes as those who joined or bewitched by Darcy soon stood before them.
His scowl deepen as they spread much across the battlefield.
The mob Darcy commanded lumbered to a stop, no formation, nor colors or banners to signify their allegiance to the Fiend.
He watched as the unruly mass split apart to reveal Darcy striding forward, the battle-scar Hell Crusader held together with bands and chains of twisted Magick.
The demonic Misery Rose resting on her shoulder.
Even from a distance Marco and Darcy felt each other's killer intent, the desire to mete out their final confrontation.
They would not see the other after today.
One would live.
The other would perish.
Marco drew Warpath, Nightfang and Bandit Terror swaying on his bodice, and pointed it across the battlefield just as Darcy mirrored his, although their actions matched, what they roared out to their army vastly differed:
"FOR YOUR LIFE, FOR THOSE YOU CHERISH, AND FOR MEWNI! CHARGE!"
"CONQUER AND DESTROY THEM ALL!"
Another page to the end of Book II