Disclaimer: I do not own the rights to characters from the Mario or ROTSH franchises.
Review Responses:
zanzara: Thank you for the suggestions. I like the names you suggested for the corrupted weapons. Also, the Silver Axem Ranger is a nice touch since their living weapons. I was thinking white, since that normally is the sixth member in most Power Ranger shows, but silver is a better fit for the Axem Rangers.
lordman: Yep, very unfortunate for Trinock that Mario and Luigi would rather overthrow him than work with him once they learn how the situation in Siltvelt is.
Lix231: Bowser will make an appearance in the future. But as something better than a wave boss.
Jujugol: Glad you liked most of the punishments. Don't worry about Motoyasu, I have plans for him.
triscythe59: Team-up attacks will be a definite thing in the future and not just between Mario and Luigi.
Captain Imaginat: King Faubrey's behavior will definitely raise some red flags for the heroes. Now, whether or not he'll live long enough to attempt some lechorous actions, we'll have to wait and see.
Guest reviewer: I have plans for the dark forms of the Cardinal Weapons. Let's just say that another foe from Mario and Luigi's past will be responsible for them.
Grammer update: I realized I explained Lesty's punishment twice.
Chapter 8: Meetings and Discussions
Nighttime had fallen over Melromarc, and the party to celebrate the four heroes was underway. Many nobles were in attendance, most of whom thanked all the heroes for their efforts. The SuperStars noticed how different the atmosphere was. Before, it felt like their presence was tolerated, but now they feel appreciated.
While the ladies enjoyed the meal, Mario and Luigi were talking with Ren and Itsuki.
"So that's a filolial?" Luigi asked.
"Yes. I got it from the short trader in the purple circus tent." Ren answered.
"Oh, you got it from Beloukas?"
"You know his name, Mario?" Itsuki asked.
"Yeah, he did introduce us to Raphtalia. And because of that meeting, we learned about Rabier and were able to save her friends."
"I see. But yeah, he has this gacha game where you buy a random egg for a chance to get a dragon."
"What's a gacha game?" Keel asked.
"It's-a game where you pay for a chance to win an awesome prize. Most of the prizes you get are average, but one is really good." Mario explained.
"What are the chances of winning the awesome prize?"
"Well, it depends. Hey, Ren, how many eggs were there to choose from?"
"Oh, if I remember correctly, there were twenty eggs."
"Got it. So in that case, you have a one-in-twenty chance of getting a dragon."
"I see."
"That's why I didn't bother. It's just a huge scam." Itsuki commented.
"While I agree most gacha games are scams, I believe this is different. Filolials are useful partners once fully grown. They run faster than horses, and I've heard high-level ones can even learn magic. I believe it's worth a try. Even if you don't get a dragon, a filolial can be just as useful!" Ren explained.
"I see. Then I'll make sure to try it out once we visit him!" Luigi said.
While Itsuki could see Ren's point, he wanted a dragon. So, he was going to wait for a guaranteed chance to get one. But this conversation reminded him of something.
"Hey, Luigi."
"Yes?"
"I know you visit Beloukas to buy slaves and free them in Lurolona, but I've noticed he still had a good amount of slaves left. Did you run out of funds? If you need some coin to save them, then I can."
"No, no, no, it's-a not like that. You see, some slaves have earned their fate. Some of them were criminals and were turned into slaves to pay for their crimes. We don't buy those and leave them to their punishment."
"I see. Hmm, makes sense." Itsuki said while nodding his head.
While the heroes talked amongst themselves, their teams were also conversing with each other. Daisy and Neia were trying to convince Rishia to be more confident while Raphtalia and Rifana watched with some pity for the shy girl. Ren's team was complimenting Peach for having the strength to fight off a slave crest. As the party went on, Mirellia entered through the main doors with Melty walking in beside her. Everyone turned to face the queen.
"Thank you all for coming. Here, we thank all four Cardinal Heroes for fending off the second wave. Sir Mario, Sir Luigi, Sir Ren, and Sir Itsuki, from all of us, thank you for your service. To the Cardinal Heroes!"
"To the Cardinal Heroes!"
Everyone, or almost everyone, cheered for the heroes and their teams. There were only three individuals who didn't. They just glared at the groups with anger and envy.
"Now, I need to speak to the four heroes privately. Will you four please join me in the meeting room?"
The four nodded and went inside the room.
"As for everyone else, please enjoy the party."
With that, she walked inside as two knights shut the doors. Melty was left out and approached the Shield and Spear teams. Her mother had told her to mingle with the hero parties.
Inside the meeting room, the five sat around a round table.
"Thank you for meeting me, honored heroes."
"You're welcome. So, what do we need to discuss?" Luigi asked.
"A few major subjects. The first would be the introduction of our new Spear Hero, Mario. Congratulations on being chosen by the spear."
The group gave a small applause.
"Oh, thanks," Mario said while blushing.
"Now, as the new Spear Hero, you need a team to aid you. I see that Lady Peach and the wolf girl follow you already."
"Yes. And the wolf girl's name is Keel."
"I see. I would recommend one or two more members to round out your team. And I advise the same for you, Sir Itsuki."
"Right. I'm just waiting for the right animal companion to add, and maybe another person if they impress me." Itsuki responded.
"Oh, you mean like Sir Ren's filolial?"
Everyone turned to the small red bird on top of Ren's head.
"She's adorable!"
"Thanks. How did you know it was a girl?"
"A hunch. What's her name?"
"Scarlett."
"While filolials are great, I'd prefer a dragon," Itsuki said.
"I see. I'm sure if you get a dragon, it will become powerful under your care. It is said that almost any creature that a hero raises will unlock new powers and transformations."
"Really?" Mario asked.
"Yes. Many scholars and filolial experts believe that the current filolial queen was raised by a past Shield Hero."
"Oh, you mean Fitoria."
"You've met her!" Mirellia asked in excitement.
"No, we got a letter from her."
"Oh, I see." Mirellia calmed and recomposed herself. "What did it say?"
Luigi handed her the letter he had received. She read it and nodded as she handed it back.
"Hmm, it's good to see that she's watching over you all, but I have to wonder what she knows."
"What do mean?" Itsuki asked.
"According to the letter, it seems that Fitoria already had a plan to make Mario the Spear Hero. She must have known of a way to separate the weapons from their chosen wielders."
"That's not surprising. If she was raised by a previous Shield Hero, then she must have learned some tricks and secrets about the weapons." Ren commented.
"Yeah, I wonder if she would teach us some of them. Queen Mirellia, how do we get into contact with her?"
"I wish I knew. She's very enigmatic. Only appearing when she deems it necessary to involve herself."
Ren and Itsuki nodded as they sat back down while Mario and Luigi were deep in thought. What did she know about the weapons? And what was her original plan if Smithy never showed up?
"Now, back onto the subject of party members, Sir Mario, Sir Motoyasu's old team would like to ask you about joining your team."
"What!?" The four heroes shouted.
"Yes. Earlier, I gave Lesty and Elana a quick trial for their part in my daughter's plans. Lesty was given a massive fine and stripped of her nobility for not only willingly but gleefully aiding in Malty's plans. Elana was given a smaller fine and kept her nobility, seeing as she followed Malty's orders to avoid her wrath. Understandable, given Malty's nature."
"And what of the witch that was in his group?" Mario asked.
"While Rino did aid Malty, it was mostly with minuscule tasks, such as carrying luggage, bringing her herbs for her potions, cleaning the team's gear before they woke up, and other things like that. She never had a major part in aiding her plans. The first and only time she was asked to was during the second wave when Malty ordered her to attack Peach, and we know that Rino outright refused to help, despite knowing what Malty would do to her."
"I see, I see. Why do they want to join my team? I thought they would hate me since I'm the brother of the Shield Demon. '"
"While that may be true, joining your party now that you're the Spear Hero would bring many benefits to them. Adventurers who have aided the heroes of the past have had their names remembered throughout the ages as great adventurers. Plus, being a part of your team would help them with their fines."
"Really?"
"Yes. As you know, we'll provide the Cardinal Heroes with monthly funds in addition to any bonus you get for completing quests that aid the people of Melromarc. This money, if spent wisely and saved, can add up quickly. And, even divided among team members, would be more than enough to pay their fines in a few days."
"I see. Hmmm."
"Mario, you're not seriously considering taking them in, right?" Luigi asked.
"Well, Rino did stand up to Malty when she attacked Peach, so that counts for something. Plus, she has a vast knowledge of spells and Melromarc, right?"
"Yes. I can confirm from her adventuring records that she was considered a prodigy among her fellow mages. She would be a great asset to your team." Mirellia answered.
"Okay, I can see your point for her. But the other two?"
"Don't-a worry, bro. Lesty will have to find some other chump to leech off of. And as for Elana, I'm-a not too sure. I mean, I can understand her following Malty's order so she doesn't get on her bad side, since her dad was protecting her and following her whims."
"Not to mention Motoyasu."
"That too, Itsuki. But, simultaneously, she didn't do anything to stand up to Malty as Rino did."
"I can understand your reasoning, Sir Mario, and will accept your choice. Now, would you like any of the former Spear Hero's team members, Sir Itsuki?" Mirellia asked.
"Besides that mage girl, if Mario rejects her, no thanks. From what I saw, they were nothing more than cheerleaders."
"Cheerleaders?"
"Oh, right, you don't have those here. They are people who stand on the sidelines and just cheer on the person doing the actual work."
"I see. Thank you for explaining. Very well. You will still have to tell them this tomorrow. They do have a right to ask in person and are invoking it."
"Alrighty then."
"Good, now onto the next topic. Since Mario and Luigi have a form of fast travel between countries, the other representatives have requested a proper meeting with the four heroes. Would you four be willing and able to meet with them?"
"Sure."
"I have no problem with that."
"Same."
"I don't mind."
Mario, Luigi, Itsuki, and Ren responded. Mirellia smiled at this and began to go over the details of the meeting.
Meanwhile
Melty had approached the table where the Shield and Spear teams were.
"Good evening, Lady Peach, Lady Daisy," Melty said with a bow.
"Hmm? Oh, hello."
"Hello, there. Do you need something, kid?"
Peach and Daisy said.
"No, I am merely here to make your acquaintance. I am Melty Q. Melromarc, second princess and heir to the throne."
"Oh, so your that bitch's little sister."
"Daisy!"
"Oh, come on, Peach! After what she tried to pull, you don't think she deserves to be called a bitch? I should've added a permanent name change to her punishment."
"While you have a point, and the name change isn't a bad idea, we should still mind our words in front of her little sister. I apologize for that."
"No, no, she's right to speak of my sister in such a way. While it is vulgar, it is deserved after everything Malty has put you through. I give you my most sincere apologies for everything she's done." Melty said with a bow.
"No, you don't have to do that! It's her fault, not yours! You don't have to take responsibility for what your older sister does." Peach said while waving her hands.
"You're too kind, Lady Peach. Speaking of, how are you healing? I understand hot irons can leave lasting scars."
"Oh, it's fine." Peach opened her upper chest to show that her skin was already healed. "As you can see, it's as if it never happened."
"I do see. But how? It healed so quickly."
"It's thanks to my magic. I can heal most injuries with it."
As the three began to talk, a female servant came by with their orders. She put down the food with such force that she might as well have thrown it onto their table.
"Your food. Enjoy." She said curtly before turning to walk off.
"Ah ah ah, you wouldn't have poisoned our food now, servant Malty?" Daisy asked.
The servant turned to reveal it was the former princess.
"Of course not, Lady Daisy."
The group narrowed their eyes at her but noticed her slave seal didn't go off. As she was about to turn, Daisy asked another question.
"Did you put anything else in our food?"
Malty stops and grits her teeth.
"Well?"
She then turns with a forced smile.
"Of course not- Aahhh!"
Her slave seal went off, signifying she did put something in their food. The group turned to the pot pies they had ordered and began to dig through them with their forks and knives. As they did, they found small pieces of metal and glass inside.
"You bitch!" Daisy yelled.
She and the others grabbed the pies and threw them at Malty. One pie hit her face, and one of the metal pieces cut her cheek.
"No! My face, my beautiful face!" Malty cried.
"It's what you get!" Daisy yelled as she stood over her.
As Daisy continued to berate Malty, Aultcray, now wearing servant clothes and holding a bottle of wine, watched in anger as he could do nothing to protect her now.
"Excuse me! I could use a refill!" One of Ren's team members shouted.
Aultcray grits his teeth but complies. While this was happening, a knight who was standing guard at the door watched it all in anger. He was about to walk over, but an older knight grabbed him by the shoulder to stop him.
"Hey! Where do you think you're going?" The other knight asked.
"I'm going to stop this madness! Just look at what they are doing to that poor servant girl!" The younger knight said.
"Bah! As far as I'm concerned, that bratty princess is getting what she deserves. Now, stay at the door and don't even think of moving without my say-so!"
The younger pouted but followed the older knight's orders. He returned to his spot and crossed his arms while leaning against the wall.
"What the hell do you think you're doing?" The older knight shouted.
"Huh?"
"What kind of position is that!? Uncross those arms and stand up straight!" The younger knight did this, but. "You're holding your spear wrong! That's it! When we get back to the barracks, you're giving me ten laps around the fields and two hundred spear thrusts!"
"Again!?"
"Yes, again!"
"Damn it! Why do you like picking on me!?"
"Oh, I don't know. I guess I'm just angry."
"Angry about what!?"
"Well, my brother's farm was burnt down by some idiot chasing balloons who then demanded all his money for killing them. I guess that just pisses me off."
The older knight glared at his younger subordinate with a grin.
"O-oh..." The younger knight whimpered. This was Motoyasu, who had taken up the knight job. He expected to breeze through it, being the former Spear Hero, but it was harder than he thought. It was harder to fight without the Spear's benefits, and every other knight seemed to have it out for him. He decided to put up with it, waiting for the 'event' where he would take back the Spear from Mario.
Meanwhile
We return to Rogueport, where Goombella and Professor Frankly are in his house, staring at a book on the table. When Goombella realized that Mario and the others were missing, she went ballistic trying to find them. She thought they were kidnapped, but couldn't figure out how, that's when she found this book. It was different from all the others, and she decided to bring it to Professor Frankly to examine it.
He read a few pages and made a shocking discovery. Mario and his friends were kidnapped by the book and are trapped inside it or the world it's connected to. Goombella began to panic, but Frankly calmed her down. He was friends with Professor E. Gadd and sent a message to him explaining what had happened. E. Gadd sent a reply stating that someone who can help would be in contact soon.
"So? How much longer do we have to wait?" Goombella asked in concern.
"Please be patient, Goombella. If this person can help us, they must have an important position and cannot just up and leave whenever they want. We must wait, and besides, Mario and his friends are doing fine."
Professor Frankly opened up the book and showed some pages to Goombella.
"As you can see, the book fills itself in the farther Mario and his friends get in their adventure. Now, it may have started rocky with that rape accusation."
"RAPE!?"
"Now, now, calm down. It was a fake charge brought by the princess of that kingdom to try and frame Luigi. Luckily, the princesses were able to prove his innocence. Even now, things seem to be getting better for them. Mario managed to take a legendary weapon from a moron who abused it and replaced him as a hero. But still, how did he return?"
"Hmm? Who are you talking about?"
"One of Mario's old enemies, Smithy. Not only did he return from the dead and in that other world, but he's stronger than before. This is worrisome."
As the two goombas pondered on this, a beam of light appeared before them. It died down to reveal an astral projection of Rosalina.
"Hello, Goombella, Professor Frankly. E. Gadd said you needed my help."
"Whoa, Rosalina? The goddess of the cosmos? Wow, it's such an honor to meet you!" Goombella said in excitement.
"Thank you."
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Miss Rosalina. But we do have a situation. Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Princess Daisy have been taken into another world."
Professor Frankly held up the book for Rosalina to see. She took it and read through its pages. As she did, a frown formed on her face.
"Oh dear. This is bad. Hmm, I must examine the book. Once I do, I'll find a way to help them."
"You can't just bring them home?" Goombella asked.
"Unfortunately not. I can feel strong magic coming from this book, magic that rivals even my power. Plus, from what I've read, that world also needs help, so Mario and his friends would likely not abandon it. It would be better to send help to aid them and expedite their journey home."
"I see. Hmm, then I'll gather up the gang again!"
Goombella ran out of the room to find her old friends.
"Good, I'll do the same as I examine this book. Please, Professor, let me know if you make any discoveries about this problem."
"Of course, Miss Rosalina."
With that, Rosalina's astral projection left with the book while Professor Frankly went back to read through his notes.
Back in Melromarc
The four heroes had just exited the meeting room to enjoy the rest of the party. When they did, an interesting sight awaited them. Mario and Luigi's teams surrounded Malty, pouring wine over her while a knight and Aultcray were being held down.
"Mamamia, what's-a going on now?" Mario asked.
"No doubt my daughter did something to earn the ire of your team, again," Mirellia answered in a tired tone.
Mario and Luigi nodded in agreement and followed Mirellia to the scene.
"Here. Have a taste of your 'special' drinks bitch!" Daisy shouted.
"What's-a going on?" Luigi asked.
"Oh, hi, babe. Just giving the former princess what she deserves."
"What did she do?"
"Why don't we let her answer that, Mario?" Peach said before turning to Malty. "Tell them what you put in our drinks."
"I didn't put any- Gah!"
Malty was shocked as she had lied again. Mirellia sighed before stepping forward.
"Malty, just tell us before I put a rule that forces the truth out of your mouth."
"But Mama, I didn't do, Aahhh!"
Mirellia shook her head at this. She opened her menu and was about to make some rule changes.
"Wait!" Malty shouted. "I'll tell you! Just don't make any more rules!"
"Then tell us now!"
"Um, well, it was a mixture of urine and feces from the stables."
The queen and the four heroes were disgusted by this.
"Mamamia. Wait, you didn't drink any of the wine, right?" Luigi asked.
"Don't worry, father. Melty suspected her sister did something and made Malty tell us before we drank the wine." Raphtalia answered.
"Oh, thank goodness. Thank you, Princess Melty."
"You're very welcome, Sir Shield. I deeply apologize for my sister's behavior." Melty said with a bow.
"No, don't do that. You're not responsible for what your older sister does."
"You're too kind."
"Yes, now, what to do with you?" Mirellia asked, causing everyone to stare at Malty.
While doing this, Mario noticed Aultcray and a knight being held down.
"I'm guessing Aultcray is being held down because he tried to help his daughter, but what about the knight?"
"He also tried to help the former princess," Peach answered.
"Huh? Why? Why help the criminal?"
"Don't you dare call her that, you fat bastard!" The knight shouted.
Everyone turned the the knight, with Mario and the other heroes recognizing that voice.
"Is that Motoyasu?"
"Wow. So you chose to become a knight. It makes sense, I suppose." Itsuki commented.
"Yeah, but why is he here? I thought he had to do basic knight training first." Ren added.
"He does, Sir Heroes," Mirellia answered. "After tonight, he will be sent to boot camp like all recruits are. But I decided he should watch over the events this evening. To see what he threw away with his careless actions. I was hoping this would set him on the path to bettering himself, but alas, that doesn't appear to be the case."
Everyone nodded as they watched Motoyasu struggle against the knight's grasp. Mirellia had enough of this and gestured for more knights to take the three away. As the knights dragged the three away, Pope Balmus approached the heroes.
"Greetings, noble heroes. I realize this is our first face to face meeting, so allow me to introduce myself. I am Pope Balmus, head of the Church of the Three Heroes."
"Oh, um, good to meet you, I guess?" Luigi said in an uncertain tone.
"Hmm? It appears you have some suspicions about me. I understand that you have had some altercations with my flock, so it's understandable. But, rest assured, I and my high priests had nothing to do with it. Those were the actions of our more radical followers. They forget the mercy our faith preaches."
"Okay then. Did you come to tell us that?" Mario asked.
"That, and to hopefully start on better terms, Sir Spear Hero. I will be speaking with my flock to stop any further hostilities against you and your brother."
"There's no way it'll be that easy," Daisy said.
"I'll admit, my words alone won't be enough to stop them all, but it should stem the number of attacks on you from them. It will at least prevent another mass gathering like before."
The SuperStars thought about this and nodded.
"Alrighty then. We thank you for your help." Mario said.
"Yes, and thank you for saving us from the waves. Now I must be off. I have much to do tomorrow. Good night."
The pope bowed and left with his fellows. After he was gone, Rena and Itsuki turned to the brothers.
"You don't believe him, do you?" Itsuki asked.
"Of course not! But we have no evidence against him at the moment, so it's best to play along for now." Mario answered.
"Good call. We should be wary of him, though." Ren said.
"Yes, now come. The night is still young, and there is plenty of food and drink for the heroes." Mirellia said.
The four heroes nodded and got into the festivities.
Later that night
Pope Balmus had returned to the church. He was frustrated that his plans would be disrupted now since the queen had returned early. He cursed the demon brothers for that and the fact that he had to bow to them. He was thinking about how to beat them when he noticed something.
As he and his guards entered the church, it was dark. Yes, it was late, and there were no churchgoers at this hour. But a few candles would still be lit so the priests and nuns could navigate around the place. The fact that it was completely dark worried him.
"Hello? Why are there no candles lit? Is anyone there!?" Balmus asked.
When he didn't get a response, he knew something was wrong.
"Your Holiness, stay behind us!" The shadow shouted as he and his partner stood in front of Balmus.
"That won't help."
The voice startled Balmus and his group when the doors slammed shut. Before they could react, dozens of arrows were shot at them from the darkness. The shadows managed to block hits to fatal organs, but everyone, including Balmus, was nicked by an arrow.
"Who are you!? How dare you attack the pope... of... I... can't... move!" A shadow said.
Balmus and the others realized too late that they were paralyzed, their bodies as stiff as a statue.
"Nya ha ha! More statues for my collection I have!"
The group moved their eyes towards the voice and saw something that confused and shocked them. The assailant was a large living bow with crazy eyes.
"W-W-What are you?" Balmus strained to ask.
"Nya ha ha! Confused and scared you are, yes? Fine statues you will make, Nya!" The strange being shouted.
Balmus was infuriated by this thing's speech but even more so at the fact that he was now at its mercy.
"Excellent work, Bowyer."
Another voice said from behind Balmus. He tried to turn it to see who it was, but he couldn't, thanks to whatever this 'Bowyer' did. He could only wait as he heard large and heavy footsteps approaching him.
"So you're the pope of this church? I must say, I expected someone more inspiring than conniving." The person said as they walked up to Balmus.
Balmus now saw that it was the metal giant from the second wave. His shadows had reported this being the only creature the Demon Brothers couldn't defeat. He already had plans to find and capture it to learn its secrets. How ironic that it was now here, holding him prisoner.
"Hello there, Mister Pope, I am Smithy. Now, you must be wondering why I am here. Well, I am a blacksmith, a damn good one. And my goal is to build an empire of living weapons, like Bowyer. Mario and his friends thwarted my first attempt, but I was given a second chance in this world filled with 'legendary' weapons. Such as the one you have in this church."
Balmus's eyes widened upon hearing this.
"It seems you know what I'm talking about. So, here is your proposition: Give me the weapon, and I will help you take down Mario and his friends. I'll even give you and your church a place in my new world."
Smithy waited for Balmus's answer, only to realize he couldn't talk, thanks to Bowyer.
"Oh, right. Bowyer, release him."
Bowyer snapped his fingers, and Balmus was able to move again.
"Good. Now, about my offer? Do you accept?"
Balmus looked to his men, who were still paralyzed, and to Smithy and Bowyer. He had to choose his words carefully, or else it was the end of him.
"If I were to hand you our sacred relic, can you guarantee the defeat of the Demon Brothers?"
"Mario and Luigi? Yes, I can. I can even upgrade your relic. For example," Smithy pulled out a paper that Balmus recognized being from the church's records. "This relic has the major drawback of needing an extreme amount of mana to work. You would need an army of your followers with you, using their mana just to activate its power. If you let me work on it, I can get rid of that drawback."
"What!? You can do that?"
"Of course. I'm a magical blacksmith, after all." Smithy said with a grin.
Balmus thought about this. He didn't like working with Smithy, but defeating the Demon Brothers would be impossible with his current strength. He would work with Smithy for now, until he could find a way to take all the power he has for himself. Then, he would dispose of Smithy and start his conquest of the other kingdoms.
"Very well, Smithy, I accept your aid. Let us destroy the Demon Brothers together."
"Good, good," Smithy said with a nod. "Now, something else I found out about your relic." Smithy pulled out another sheet of paper. "One of the previous popes discovered that the relic could absorb the essence of the other weapons if one of the heroes were to hold it. Even touching the relic would be enough for it to absorb their essence. This should help in reducing the mana cost."
"What? It can? I never knew that. Hmm, but it will be difficult to get them to touch the weapons. Despite my best efforts, the queen and the Demon Brothers are still wary of me."
"I'm sure you'll find a way. Also, I'll need a guinea pig, a useful idiot who could use the weapon so I can study it and make improvements."
"Hmm, what about the former Spear Hero? He seemed to be desperate to escape his fate."
"That blonde moron? He'll do, I suppose."
"Good, I'll get to work on retrieving him. Oh, and can you release my men?"
"Right, Bowyer!"
Bowyer snapped his fingers, and the rest of the shadows were released from his skill. With that, Pope Balmus and Smithy discussed their partnership.
The next day
It was noon, and the four heroes were gathered in the throne room where Queen Mirellia and her daughter were. There was murmuring amongst the nobles above as they wondered what was next after the trial. Mirellia raised her fan and silence fell upon the throng room.
"Now, before I return to Faubrey to continue diplomatic discussions, I will address some important issues. The first will be my new regent."
The main doors opened, and Lord Reichnott walked in.
"Lord Reichnott. I would like to appoint you as my new regent. Do you accept?"
"Of course, my queen. I hope to live up to your expectations." Reichnott said with a bow.
"I know you will. Now, the second issue: Will the team members of the former Spear Hero step forward?"
From the main doors came Elana, Lesty, and Rino. Peach and Keel glared at Lesty as she walked in while Rino was anxiously gripping her staff. Elana didn't seem to care that much.
"Now, since Motoyasu is no longer the Spear Hero, you three are no longer a part of a hero's party. As such, you will be sent back to your village or whatever location was your home before becoming a member of the hero's party. But you three have voiced your desire to still be a part of a hero's party, correct?"
The three girls nodded.
"Very well. First, we shall ask the new Spear Hero. Sir Mario, do you wish to take in any them in?"
Mario and Peach walked up to the three and examined them. Lesty looked to the side to avoid Peach's glare while Rino looked down in shame. Elana, meanwhile, just stared forward with a calm and neutral expression.
"You," Mario said, pointing at Rino. "You didn't join the former princess when she tried to attack Peach, right?"
"Um, yes. I never agreed with her plan to enslave her. I'm sorry I couldn't do more, but I feared the princess would turn her wrath against me."
"Understandable. And, from what Peach says, you know many spells?"
"Yes! I studied extensively before becoming an adventurer."
"Good, we could use that knowledge. Alrighty, you're in."
"Huh?"
"You're in. You've earned a chance."
"Oh, thank you, Sir Mario! I promise I won't let you down!"
Rino said with a bow. She then walked up next to Keel. Mario and Peach turned to join them, but Lesty stopped them.
"Hey! What about us!?" Lesty asked.
Mario turned and glared at her.
"You aided Malty in trying to enslave and kill my fiance, and you did so gleefully. So you can kick rocks for all I care! And you!" Mario points to Elena. "While you didn't do anything directly, you also didn't do anything to stop Malty, so I don't feel like accepting you into my party either."
"Understandable," Elena said.
Mario and Peach walked back to their group, leaving Lesty fuming.
"Very well, now, do any of the other teams wish to take these two in?" Mirellia asked.
"No thanks. My group is full."
"Same here."
Luigi and Ren said. Everyone then turned to Itsuki, who was deep in thought. He then turns to Elena.
"What benefits would you bring to my team?"
"I have trained in swordsmanship and while not as knowledgable as Rino, I do know magic and can implement it into my fighting style."
"So you're a magic swordsman or swordswoman?"
"Yes, Sir Itsuki."
"And is that all?"
"I also have some connections through my parents. My father is a retired soldier, and my mother runs many shops around Melromarc. I can get discounts at my family's stores, and my father can get us a lead on some quests through his friends."
"Okay, that sounds useful. I'll give you a chance."
"Thank you, Sir Itsuki," Elena said with a bow.
"But remember, I'm not Motoyasu. I won't let you laze around while I do all the work. If you want to stay, then you have to earn your keep."
"I understand."
Elena joined Itsuki's team, leaving Lesty alone.
"So, is there anyone who would take Lesty?" Mirellia asked.
Lesty had a desperate expression as she looked at the heroes, but none of them showed any interest in her.
"Very well, it appears your time as an adventurer has come to an end, Lesty. You will have to find another way to pay your dues."
"Damn it!" Lesty shouted.
"That's right!" Peach said in realization. "She helped Malty attack me, so she should be punished as well."
"She already has, Lady Peach. Yesterday, before the party, I held a quick trial for both Lesty and Elena. They were both found guilty and were issued fines based on their involvement."
"Just fines? I understand for Elena, but Lesty?" Peach asked.
"Lesty has also been stripped of her nobility and will receive no aid from her family in paying it off."
Peach thought about this and wondered what else she could add. She was still annoyed at the fact that Lesty helped Malty brand her. That's when Peach had an idea.
"I see. As one of her victims, may I request an addition to her punishment?"
"As long as it is within reason."
"Of course. First, how much is her fine?"
"Two thousand gold for following my daughter's plans without question."
"Then, until she pays it off, she is to work as a laborer in Lurolona."
"What!?" Lesty shouted.
"That's right. You will help out around the village with rebuilding, handling the farm animals, pulling weeds in the fields, and all other sorts of hard, physical jobs."
"But, but, I'm of nobility! Those tasks are beneath me!"
"Was of nobility, my dear. You were stripped of it, remember?"
"But, but, but-"
"I like this idea. Is there anything else you would like to add?" Mirellia asked.
"Yes. Until her fine is paid off, she shall be given a slave crest, serving under Eclair Seaotto. Just to make sure she does her job."
This shocked and terrified Lesty.
"I see. Then so be it! Lesty shall be given a slave crest that will be removed when, and only when, she pays off her fines. Until she does, she shall be put to work in Lurolona."
"But, my queen! I-"
"Silence!" Mirellia shouted, silencing Lesty. "You should be thankful I'm not imprisoning you or forcing you to work a cruel job. The enslavement and attempted murder of a human is one the worst crimes in Melromarc. The normal sentencing of which is either life imprisonment or death! Do you understand?" Lesty nodded timidly. "Then be thankful that I and Lady Peach are allowing you to pay off that crime with a mere two thousand gold. Now begone."
"Yes, my queen," Lesty said before two of the queen's shadows guided her out of the throne room.
"And finally, will Eclair Seaotto step forward?"
The main doors opened once more, and Eclair walked into the room. Once she had reached the center, she kneeled before the queen.
"You summoned me, my queen?"
"Yes, you may rise, Eclair."
Eclair stood up and awaited Mirellia's words.
"Now, during my absence and following the death of your father, my husband wrongly charged you with a crime, imprisoned you, and stripped you of your levels. Is this correct?"
"Yes, my queen."
Hearing this, Mirellia stood up and bowed her head to Eclair.
"I deeply apologize for my husband's rash actions, Eclair Seaotto. You had to endure so much pain because of him."
This shocked everyone there while Peach and Daisy nodded their heads in approval. Mirellia shows herself to be a far more knowledgeable and kinder leader than Aultcray.
"Please, my queen, there is no need for you to bow your head! It was Aultcray who did the crimes!"
"Still, even if I did not name him regent, his actions reflect on my poor decision to not leave a safeguard in case Lord Seaotto died. I will not make that mistake again." Mirellia said as she rose. "So, I would like for you to aid Lord Reichnott in his efforts to lead the kingdom, and in case the worst happens, I want you to take his place."
This shocked everyone there.
"What!? Are you sure, my queen?"
"Yes. From what I remember, your father spoke highly of you."
"Why, I'm honored. I will not disappoint you!"
"Thank you. I would also like to reinstate your nobility and give you back lordship over your lands. Will that be fine, Sir Shield?"
"Of course! It was hers originally, after all." Luigi answered.
"Good, I hope you will still help the village of Lurolona. The villagers seem to idolize you."
The SuperStars smiled and nodded at this.
"And with that, this gathering has come to a close! You are all dismissed!"
Upon Mirellia's command, the nobles began to disperse. As this happened, Mirellia approached the heroes and their teams.
"Are you all ready?" The four heroes nodded. "Good. Then it is time to meet the representatives of the other kingdoms. Sir Mario, Sir Luigi, if you would?"
Mario and Luigi nodded and summoned a warp pipe to take them all to Faubrey. Everyone began to enter with Mario and Luigi being the last ones. Once they did the pipe sunk into the ground and vanished.
In Faubrey
There was a large empty room with soldiers guarding it. As they did, one spoke up.
"Why are we guarding this empty room?"
"I told you three times already! We're waiting for the queen of Melromarc and the Cardinal Heroes."
"Do they have teleportation magic? How are they supposed to show up in this room?"
"The Spear and Shield Heroes have a magical green pipe they can summon that can take anyone anywhere they've been to before."
"Ha! Magic green pipe, that's a good one."
"I'm not joking."
"Sure, sure. Tell you what, if a magic pipe shows up in the next hour, I'll treat you all to a drink."
Right as the soldier finished his sentence a warp pipe came out of the ground in the middle of the room. Queen Mirellia and her daughter were the first to emerge from it, then Ren, Itsuki, and their teams came out, and finally, Mario and Luigi's teams came out, with the pipe disappearing into the ground once they got out.
"Greetings. We are here for the meeting." Mirellia said.
"Yes, honored guests, our king and the other representatives are waiting for you. If you'll follow me."
The group followed the soldier out of the room. Once they left, the other soldiers turned to the arrogant one.
"So, when will be having that drink?" One soldier asked as the rest snickered at this.
The arrogant one just mumbled something while trying to cover his face with his shako cap. The heroes and the queen were being led down a hallway lined with soldiers. The heroes noticed that these soldiers resembled those from the eighteenth century and wielded muskets instead of spears or swords.
"I see you've taken notice of our weapons, honored heroes." The soldier leading them said.
"Yeah. I'm surprised that they all have muskets instead of spears." Itsuki said.
"Yes, Faubrey is the most technologically advanced kingdom in the world thanks to the efforts of a previous Cardinal Hero. Because of our advancements in warfare, we now stand as the strongest kingdom in the world."
"I see," Mario said.
The group reached a branching path in the hallway when the soldier turned to face them.
"This way leads to the meeting room where the king and the other representatives are waiting. Only the queen and the Cardinal Heroes will be allowed to enter. Your teams will be taken by my comrade to a guest room that has refreshments."
The group nodded and separated with the queen and the Cardinal Heroes being led to the meeting room and their teams and Melty being led to the guest room. The teams arrived at the guest room, it had sofas, chairs, snacks, and drinks.
"Please wait here until the meeting is over. If you need anything, please ask one of the servants or the guards." The soldier said, gesturing to the waiters and soldiers nearby. He gave a salute and left.
Everyone decided to make themselves comfortable and either take a seat, get some snacks, or both. As the Shield and Spear teams sat down, Daisy was thinking about something.
"Hey, Peach."
"Yeah?"
"Did you notice how some of the soldiers were looking at us?"
"Yes, I did. Almost like their king."
"That's because of the culture here in Faubrey," Rino said.
"What do you mean?" Keel asked.
"Prosotution is one of main activities here in Faubrey. It's where most of the sex slaves in the slave trade come from. Just look outside, and you'll see what I mean."
Peach, Daisy, and their daughters did that and were shocked by what they saw. Thick blankets of smoke filled the air.
"What's with all the smoke?" Raphtalia asked.
"That's from their factories." A woman from Ren's group answered.
"Isn't that bad to breathe in?" Rifana asked.
"Do not fret, miss." A waiter said before pointing to a vent in the ceiling. "The air filters made by our engineers make sure that we get the best air quality."
"But what about the people down below?"
"I don't think the king cares about them. As long as his kingdom stays on top, he couldn't care less." Elena commented.
"That's a bit rude." The waiter said.
"Is she wrong?" Peach asked.
The waiter said nothing and returned to his post. Peach and the others tried to see through the smoke and saw what Rino was talking about. Down below, on almost every street corner, was a woman just waiting. Now and then, a man would come up, say something, or hold up a bag of coins, and the two would walk down an alley. Most likely to do the deed. What made it worse was that there were children nearby, watching this all happen.
"How awful," Peach said, disgusted by this fact.
Daisy shook her head while the three demi-girls stepped back in shock.
"That's just how things work in this kingdom, Lady Peach. It's very common for women to be sold into prostitution. Usually by their own family members." Rino said.
"What!? Why!?"
"For many reasons. Either their in debt, or they wish to increase their standing in society. Though there are rumors that the king usually forces his men to surrender their sisters, mothers, or wives to him."
The more they learned about this kingdom, the more they wanted to get out as soon as possible. They didn't want to stay long enough for the king or his men to try something. But as Peach walked back to her seat, she felt something was off. She felt as though she was being watched and turned back to the window but saw nothing. She shrugged and went back to her seat. However, unbeknownst to her, a woman dressed in ninja garb had just ducked out of sight as soon as Peach turned around. Having almost been spotted, she left and disappeared into the smoke.
Back with the queen and the heroes, they soon arrived at the meeting room. The soldier stepped forward and turned to the king and the representatives.
"Introducing Queen Mirellia, Sir Mario the Spear Hero, Sir Luigi the Shield Hero, Sir Ren the Sword Hero, and Sir Itsuki the Bow Hero!"
"Good, good. You've finally joined us." King Faubrey said. He then waved off the Soldier who saluted and left the room. "Please, take a seat. We have much to discuss."
The five took their seats, and the meeting began.
Rosalina's Comet Observatory
Rosalina was reading the book and furrowed her brows. While Mario, Luigi, Peach, and Daisy were doing fine, the fact that Smithy came back, and with more power, worried her. She would have to contact Queen Jaydes about this development. As she was pondering this, a bright line appeared behind her.
"Lady Rosalina, I have returned with the ones you requested." The light said.
"Good work, *#&%."
From behind the light came a floating top hat and a yellow star with a turquoise ribbon.
"Cappy, Stella, it's good you came."
"No problem, Rosalina. Once I heard that Mario needed help, I came as soon as I could." Cappy said.
"Same here! Peach saved the Sparkla Theatre, it's time I paid back the favor." Stella said.
These were allies of Mario and Peach who helped them on their adventures.
"That's good. And what of Mallow?"
"Unfortunately, he is stuck in a diplomatic meeting between the Nimbus Kingdom and the Bean Bean Kingdom. He won't be able to join us for a while." The light said.
"I see. Very well, you two will have to be the first to venture into this new world to aid our friends. Goombella is still trying to gather her old team." Rosalina explained.
"No problem. Thanks for bringing us here... um... How do you say your name again?" Cappy asked.
"Just call me Geno."
"Right, thanks for the ride, Geno."
"Yes. Now I must be off."
Geno then sped off to try and find more help for Mario and his friends.
"Good, now for you two." Rosalina twirled her wand, and the book floated in front of her. "I'm going to use my power to send you to Mario and Peach, also here."
Rosalina handed a bag to Cappy and Stella.
"What's this?" Stella asked.
"It's items and power-ups that will help Mario and his friends. This should help them in their adventure."
"Got it!" Cappy said as he put the bag away.
"Now, hold still while I send you into that world."
Rosalina focused her power on the book and Cappy and Stella. The three began to glow and that's when Cappy and Stella felt themselves being pulled towards the book. Soon they were sucked into it and sent into the other world to aid our heroes. Rosalina stopped what she was doing, and the book fell.
"I hope our aid finds you well, my friends," Rosalina said as she picked up the book.
And that's the end of the chapter. Thank you so much for reading it. I hope you enjoyed it. Feel free to leave a review, and have a nice day.