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Chapter Text

Rain lashed violently against the windowpanes, blurring the world outside into a streaky watercolor of greens and grays. Each drop struck the glass with the percussive urgency of a frantic heartbeat, a relentless, drumming rhythm that underscored the wild ferocity of the storm. Deep in the distant mountains, thunder cracked with the explosive force of a titan's fist, rattling the very foundations of the small, isolated cottage and sending tremors through the wooden floor. In the erratic, blinding flashes of lightning that sporadically illuminated the room, long, distorted shadows danced and writhed along the walls like malevolent phantoms.

A small, familiar figure, barely taller than Luigi's knee, crept silently through the hallway. He was shivering uncontrollably, less from the chilling drafts that snaked through the old house, and more from a deep, internal terror that clung to him like a damp shroud.

"Mamma...?" the Koopaling's voice was barely a whisper, fragile and unsure, a thin, reedy thread of sound almost swallowed by the storm's furious howl.

Luigi stirred sluggishly from her restless, shallow sleep, blinking thick, gummy eyelids. Her emerald eyes, usually sparkling with life, slowly adjusted to the gloom of the room, still heavy with the lingering tendrils of a half-remembered nightmare. Then, a sudden, brilliant flash of lightning illuminated the silhouette hunched in the doorway—a small, familiar form that sent a jolt of instant recognition, and a familiar ache of protective love, straight to her heart. All traces of sleep vanished instantly.

"Another nightmare?" she asked gently, her voice a low, soothing murmur, already pushing back the thick, quilted blanket on her bed, the warmth inviting.

The child nodded miserably, his small, trembling hands clutching the rough, unfinished edge of the doorframe like a desperate lifeline in his fear. His wide, tear-filled eyes, reflecting the distant, intermittent flashes of lightning, were pools of profound sorrow and dread.

"Come here," she said, her voice softer still, pulling the blanket back further, creating an inviting, safe haven in the warmth of her bed.

He clambered into bed without hesitation, a small, trembling bundle of nerves. He tucked himself close against her side, burying his face in the soft fabric of her nightshirt, seeking the reassuring scent and warmth of her skin. Her arms, strong and comforting, wrapped protectively around his small, trembling frame, holding him tightly. Slowly, imperceptibly, his ragged breaths began to even out, falling into the soft, steady rhythm of innocent, dreamless sleep. He was safe.

Luigi stayed awake, her mind drifting in the comforting, impenetrable darkness. She listened to the rhythmic drumming of the rain against the roof and windows, and the soft, steady breaths of her sleeping son. She watched him, his little face peaceful and unmarred by fear in the gloom, and allowed herself a rare, fleeting moment of stillness—a fragile, precious respite from the constant worry that shadowed her days. It lasted only until a sudden, sharp, almost violent knock shattered the fragile calm.

Knock. Knock.

She stiffened instantly, every muscle coiling tight, every nerve screaming alarm. Her gaze darted instinctively to the window, then to the sturdy wooden door, her heart hammering against her ribs.

No one visits this late. Not out here, in this secluded, forgotten corner of the world.

She slipped from bed with practiced, silent care, her movements fluid and economical, honed by years of living on the edge. Her heart, already a frantic drumbeat in her chest, began to race in earnest, a cold premonition settling deep in her gut. Her instincts screamed danger, a primal, ancient warning. Her hand moved almost subconsciously, sliding beneath her worn, wooden nightstand. Her fingers closed around the cold, textured grip of the black metal bat, pulling it out with a soft, barely audible scrape against the floor—a brutal, grim precaution she'd hoped she'd never, ever need to employ.

Another knock. This one was louder. Sharper. More insistent. A resounding thud that vibrated through the floorboards.

Her steps were slow and measured as she approached the door, each footfall precise and deliberate. Her grip on the bat was white-knuckled, the heavy metal feeling both impossibly heavy and reassuringly solid in her hand. Her breath caught in her throat, held captive by a terrifying, inexplicable premonition that coiled deep in her stomach. She reached the door, her fingers trembling slightly as they fumbled with the cold metal of the lock. With a soft, groaning click, the mechanism disengaged in the oppressive silence. With a final, hesitant breath, she swung the heavy door inward, pushing it open just a crack—

And the world tilted sideways, spinning violently on its axis.

There, silhouetted against the stormy, rain-swept darkness of the night, colossal and undeniable, stood the last person she ever wanted to see. He was drenched, his familiar orange mane plastered flat to his massive skull by the relentless downpour, rivulets of rainwater streaming down his rough, scaled face. He was breathless, his chest heaving, his powerful shoulders slumping with an exhaustion that seemed to transcend mere physical fatigue.

"G-Green Bean..." Bowser said, his deep voice cracking painfully with raw, unbridled emotion. It was a sound that was at once broken, desperate, and utterly vulnerable, a stark contrast to the fearsome roar she had come to expect.

Time seemed to freeze, stretching into an agonizing, surreal eternity. The roaring of the rain, the distant thunder, the frantic beat of her own heart—all faded into a muffled, distant hum. Her grip on the black metal bat faltered, the cold metal suddenly feeling impossibly heavy, useless. Her fingers, numb and unresponsive, released their hold. The bat slipped from her grasp, clattering loudly as it hit the worn wooden floor with a dull, echoing thud, the sound shockingly loud in the profound silence that had descended between them.

His eyes, vast and unfathomable in the dim light, searched her face with the desperate intensity of a man dying of thirst in a parched desert. Five years. Five agonizingly long years had dragged by since he'd last seen her—five years since he'd inexplicably vanished from her life, taking with him, as she had bitterly believed, all the light and joy she had known. He had imagined this moment countless times, replaying it over and over in the desolate quiet of his mind. What he'd say. What she'd say. How she'd look, etched in pain or anger or, god forbid, indifference. But nothing, absolutely nothing, compared to the overwhelming, disorienting, and profoundly painful reality of her standing there, alive and real, before him.

Her hair, once a cheerful, buoyant cascade of chestnut waves that framed her face with youthful softness, was longer now, falling past her shoulders in a practical, unadorned style, often tied back with a simple band. Her face, once openly expressive and quick to smile or frown, seemed thinner, sharpened by an unseen edge. It was etched with a quiet intensity, and far more guarded than it had ever been, as if years of vigilance had carved new lines around her mouth and eyes. There was an undeniable strength in the subtle clenching of her jawline, a subtle but palpable hardening around her vibrant emerald eyes that spoke volumes of battles fought in solitude and immense burdens carried alone, forged in the crucible of five solitary years. She looked beautiful still, but her beauty was now tinged with a profound weariness, a haunting quality that spoke of a deep, inner resilience. A fragile, enduring strength radiated from her very core, a testament to her profound will. She looked, in short, like a woman who had not merely survived, but who had been irrevocably changed by the act of it.

And she was absolutely, incandescently furious.

"What the HELL are you doing here?!" Luigi's voice didn't just speak; it exploded through the stormy night, a raw, guttural cry of pure shock and unadulterated rage that momentarily dwarfed the relentless drumming of the rain and the distant, reverberating rumble of thunder. It was a sound born of years of pent-up anger, betrayal, and heartbreak, finally unleashed.

Bowser flinched violently, his massive frame recoiling as if struck by an invisible, physical blow. His head snapped back slightly, the rain still streaming down his face, his expression a chaotic, agonizing swirl of bewildered hurt, profound surprise, and a renewed, desperate longing that warred with his fear. "L-Luigi," he stammered, his deep voice thick with emotion, sounding utterly unlike the confident, booming king she remembered. It was raspy, vulnerable, almost a plea. "I—I just wanted to say... I'm sorry... And I missed you..." The words hung in the air, heavy and incongruous.

Luigi took a furious, silent step forward, her bare feet making no sound on the cold, worn wooden floor. Her emerald eyes, usually reflecting kindness, now blazed with a righteous, incandescent rage that burned white-hot in her chest, radiating an almost visible heat. Every syrupy, belated word he uttered felt like a fresh insult, a brutal twist of the knife in an old, festering wound. "You don't get to miss me! You don't get to show up like this after all this time and expect me to—what? Hug you?!" Her voice rose with each biting, rhetorical question, laced with the accumulated bitterness of years of pain, abandonment, and solitary struggle.

He looked at her helplessly, his colossal shoulders slumping, his gaze pleading with a desperate, wounded honesty that would have once melted her heart. "I thought... maybe..." His words trailed off, a broken, barely audible whisper, utterly devoid of his usual bluster.

"You thought I'd just forgive you," she spat, her voice laced with chilling ice, each word a shard of frozen contempt. "Because I'm Luigi, right? Gullible. Forgiving. Easy. Not anymore. That Luigi is gone." The words hung in the charged air, sharp and final, like the clang of a death knell in a silent churchyard. It was a declaration, a severing.

He looked like she'd physically slapped him across the face, the invisible blow snapping his head back slightly. His orange scales, normally vibrant and menacing, seemed to lose their luster under the raw, visible impact of her brutal declaration. A profound understanding of the depth of her anger settled over him, cold and heavy. "Well—kind of!" he managed, a desperate, pathetic attempt at a defense, a flicker of his old, charming arrogance attempting to reassert itself, but failing utterly.

"Mamma?"

Both of them froze instantly. The single, small word, spoken in a sleepy, confused tone, cut through the electric, adult tension of the moment like a silver blade through silk. It was a sound that instantly transformed the raw, adult confrontation into something far more dangerous, far more complicated, imbued with an innocent vulnerability neither adult was prepared for.

A sleepy voice, laced with the lingering tendrils of a dream, called again from the hallway, closer this time, accompanied by the shuffling of small feet. Luigi's blood ran cold, turning to icy dread in her veins, chilling her to the very marrow. Her son, his small hand still clutching his tattered comfort blanket, stood rubbing his eyes in the dimly lit hall, his posture slumped with the weight of sleep. He blinked slowly, adjusting to the sudden, loud voices, entirely unaware of the storm of cataclysmic emotions about to erupt inside their seemingly peaceful home.

Bowser's fierce, bewildered gaze, still swimming with complicated emotions, slowly, inexorably, shifted from Luigi's furious face to the small, confused child. Luigi's breath caught in her throat; she saw the precise, horrifying moment it happened. The flicker of recognition in his wide, startled eyes, a sudden flash of profound shock. The dawning, terrifying realization that rippled across his scaled face, wiping away every other emotion until only stunned comprehension remained. His usually ruddy, vibrant scaled skin seemed to drain of all color, leaving him looking pale, almost ash-grey, and utterly, profoundly stunned. His lips parted, a soundless gasp.

She didn't give him time to speak. She couldn't. Not one more word.

SLAM.

The heavy wooden door, aged but sturdy, slammed shut with a deafening, reverberating finality that echoed violently through the small house, shaking the very foundations. It severed the fraught connection between them with brutal, absolute force, a solid barrier erected in an instant between past and present, love and betrayal, peace and chaos.

No no no no no. Luigi's heart thundered wildly in her ears, each frantic beat a desperate, panicked drum, a chilling counterpoint to the storm outside. He saw him. He saw him. The silent scream tore through her mind, colder and more terrifying than any thunderclap, more devastating than any physical blow.

She could already hear him on the other side of the heavy door, the solid wood groaning under the impact of his massive fist beginning to pound. Each thud was heavy, desperate, filled with a raw, agonizing frustration that seemed to vibrate through the very walls. "Luigi! Luigi! Is he—? Please, I just want to talk!" His voice, though still powerful, was strained, laced with a desperate, guttural plea that clawed at the wood.

No. She wasn't doing this tonight. Not here. Not ever. She wouldn't let Bowser's chaos touch her son.

Luigi spun swiftly towards her son, forcing her voice to be steady, calm, a stark contrast to the frantic panic that clawed at her insides, threatening to overwhelm her. "Jr., remember that emergency bag I told you to pack?"

He blinked, still a little disoriented from sleep, but his small eyes were now fully awake, clear with a sudden, urgent alertness, sensing the immediate, unspoken shift in his Mamma's tone. "Y-Yeah..." he whispered, his own voice tight with burgeoning understanding.

"Go get it. Now." Her voice was low, firm, edged with an undeniable authority that left no room for argument or delay.

He didn't question her. The subtle but undeniable urgency in her voice, usually reserved for serious lessons or unspoken warnings, conveyed the immediate, undeniable danger more effectively than any shouted command. His small feet were a blur as he spun and ran back down the hallway towards his room, a tiny, determined shadow against the flashes of lightning.

She moved quickly, her hands already flying to the worn, faded rug that covered the center of the living room floor. Yanking it aside with a grunt of effort, she revealed the dark, dusty outline of a hidden floor hatch, seamlessly blended into the old wood. Her fingers fumbled briefly with the cold, rough metal latch, then pulled it open with a soft, grating click, revealing the gaping, inky darkness of the basement below, and the promise of a hidden, earthen tunnel beyond. This wasn't how she had planned to use it. Not yet. She had always hoped for a quieter, less desperate departure, a controlled retreat into the unknown. But Bowser's sudden, shocking appearance, and his devastating, universe-shattering recognition of Jr., had brutally, undeniably forced her hand.

Jr. returned, a small, determined blur in the dim hallway light, his emergency bag clutched tightly in his small hands. It was a brightly colored backpack, overstuffed and lumpy, clearly packed in haste but with careful obedience. Luigi quickly grabbed it from him, the weight of it surprisingly heavy, confirming that he had indeed taken her warning seriously. She then swiftly knelt down, bringing herself to his eye level, and cupped his small, familiar face in her hands, her thumbs gently brushing away the lingering traces of sleep from his cheeks. Her gaze was intense, unwavering, pouring all her fear and fierce protection into him. "Stay close to me. Don't look back." Her voice was a low, urgent murmur, a command wrapped in a plea.

He nodded, his large, innocent eyes fixed on hers, the simple act conveying a profound trust in her completely, a silent pact of unquestioning obedience.

They slipped down into the gaping, inky darkness of the hidden floor hatch. The air within the clandestine tunnel was instantly different—heavy and damp, carrying the earthy scent of cold soil and ancient stone, a stark contrast to the familiar warmth of their cottage. It was lit only by the soft, ethereal glow of dim crystal torches, embedded at irregular intervals along the rough-hewn stone walls, casting long, dancing shadows that stretched and compressed as they moved. As they ran, their footsteps muffled by the damp earth floor, Luigi's thoughts raced even faster than her feet, a tumultuous whirlwind of questions and doubts.

Was she doing the right thing? Abandoning their home, fleeing into the storm, dragging her son into the unknown. The question echoed hollowly in the confined space, amplified by the frantic beat of her heart.

Was it fair to Jr.? To rip him from his bed, to expose him to the true, terrifying reality of their life, the constant threat that had always loomed just beyond his comprehension. He was just a child.

But how could she let Bowser take him? The very thought sent a fresh wave of ice through her veins, crystallizing her resolve. After everything? The betrayal, the disappearance, the bitter years of absence. No. He didn't even deserve to know he had a son, not after the pain he had inflicted. She clenched her jaw, pushing the self-doubt away.

Still, her chest ached with a dull, persistent throb, a deep, weary pain that had become a constant companion. So much had been stolen from her—the simple, quiet peace she had once known, the love she had once cherished, even the restorative balm of truly restful sleep. And now... now it felt like she was losing everything all over again, running from the specter of a past that refused to stay buried.

She stopped midway through the tunnel, abruptly, her breath catching in her throat, a sharp, ragged gasp that seemed painfully loud in the oppressive silence. The exhaustion, the emotional strain, the lingering terror of Bowser's sudden appearance—it all converged, pressing down on her.

Jr. looked up at her, his small brow furrowed with immediate concern, sensing the sudden shift in her. "Mamma?" he asked, his voice soft, inquisitive, unwavering in his trust.

Luigi swallowed hard, the act a struggle against the sudden tightness in her throat. She forced herself to breathe, to push past the wave of despair. "It's nothing. Let's go." Her voice was a strained whisper, but firm enough to convey her will.

They continued their hurried trek through the winding passage, the air growing colder, damper, as they neared the exit. By the time they emerged on the other side, scrambling up a final muddy incline that opened into a thick cluster of trees, the storm hadn't let up. The world outside was a swirling vortex of wind and pelting rain, colder and more exposed than the relative shelter of the tunnel. But the sight ahead, even through the blurring sheets of water, brought a profound, desperate flicker of hope, a beacon in the oppressive darkness.

Through the storm-tossed trees, majestic and steadfast against the tumultuous sky, Princess Peach's castle loomed in the distance. Its familiar spires, normally golden in the sun, were now dark silhouettes, yet they promised safety, sanctuary, and a connection to the life she had once known.

Luigi pulled Jr.'s bright yellow raincoat from the emergency bag, its synthetic fabric cold and stiff in her hands, and carefully helped him slip his small arms into the sleeves. She then unfurled a large, sturdy umbrella, its cheerful, mushroom-themed pattern a jarring contrast to the grim reality of their flight, and handed it to him, ensuring he held it firmly. They began to walk together through the relentless, freezing rain, the icy water soaking instantly into Luigi's thin clothes, chilling her to the very bones, but she ignored the discomfort. Each step was a deliberate act of will, pulling them closer to their distant haven.

She took a deep, shuddering breath, filling her lungs with the cold, rain-scented air, her gaze fixed on the castle, a single purpose firming her resolve.

"It's time to see Uncle Mario."

Chapter Text

Melody was living the time of her life at Super Smash Con, dressed as her all-time favorite character—Luigi. She'd always felt an inexplicable, profound connection to the green-hatted plumber. Like him, she was tall, perhaps a little gangly in her youth, inherently shy, and often overlooked in a crowd. She knew that feeling, the quiet presence that went unnoticed, a shadow beside brighter lights. The only major difference between them? She was a girl. Her short, choppy brown hair framed her face, a style born not from preference but necessity—one of her bullies from the orphanage, a girl with cruel intentions and even crueler shears, had savagely lopped off a large chunk of her long locks, forcing her to chop them off completely just to even it out. Still, ever dedicated to her costume, she wore a fake nose and a meticulously shaped mustache, expertly glued on with an adhesive that only a special, highly concentrated remover could dissolve. That tiny bottle of remover never left her pocket—a convention rule for commitment, after all.

Melody didn't just look like Luigi; she was like Luigi. Kind to a fault, often extending forgiveness where none was due—too forgiving, perhaps, for her own good. She always tried to see the best in people, even when they didn't deserve it, even when they consistently showed her the worst of themselves. She was also acutely timid, her soft voice often drowned out in the cacophony and boisterous clamor of convention halls and bustling public spaces.

Life in the orphanage had been bleakly lonely. She had no siblings, no close friends, just a revolving door of indifferent adults and a constant gauntlet of bullies who took joy in tearing her down, finding perverse pleasure in her quiet nature. School wasn't much better, a continuation of the same isolated existence. She didn't have a big brother like Luigi had Mario—no one to fiercely protect her, no one to truly watch her back. But through it all, through every slight and every moment of despair, she kept smiling anyway, a small, resilient curve of her lips that was more defiance than genuine joy.

While aimlessly Browse a vendor booth, her attention caught by a display of meticulously crafted figurines, she spotted a limited-edition Bowser figurine. It was intricately detailed, capturing the Koopa King's menacing grandeur with surprising accuracy. Her hand instinctively reached for it, drawn by an invisible pull, just as chaos erupted.

The sharp, distinct crack of gunshots ripped through the joyous, noisy hum of the convention hall. The sudden, terrifying sound, utterly out of place in the celebratory atmosphere, was immediately followed by another, then another, scattering terror through the dense crowd.

Panic flooded the sprawling room like a tidal wave, a monstrous, crushing force. People screamed, shrill and primal, their voices rising in a cacophony of fear. They shoved each other violently, a desperate, surging human current churning towards the distant exits. Melody tried to follow, to move with the panicked throng, but the sheer force of the crowd, a wall of unthinking bodies, kept pushing her back, trapping her. Her heart pounded against her ribs like a terrified bird, each beat a frantic, painful thud. There was no way out through the suffocating press of bodies. Her breath hitched, ragged and shallow. So she did the only thing she could—she desperately looked for an alternative place to hide, a dark corner, any crack in the wall, anything to escape the terrifying crush.

That's when she spotted it.

Tucked away almost casually behind a sprawling display of plush toys, barely visible amidst the discarded convention flyers and stray glitter, was a large, vibrant green pipe—just like the ones in the games she adored. A prop, obviously, she thought, a piece of whimsical set dressing. But unlike the other flimsy cardboard cutouts, this one looked sturdy, solid, and surprisingly authentic. It looked big enough to actually crawl into. Without hesitation, driven by an instinct she couldn't explain, she bolted toward it, shoving past a panicked cosplayer. She ducked inside the cool, surprisingly smooth opening, curling up tightly and hugging her knees to her chest, trying to make herself as small as possible. Her breath came in short, terrified gasps, echoing faintly in the confined space.

Then... the wind changed.

A sudden, strong current of air began to whip around her inside the pipe, growing stronger by the second, creating an impossible, deafening roar. It was being sucked into the pipe, creating a powerful vacuum that pulled at her clothes and hair. That didn't make sense. It was fake. Just a decoration. She leaned forward, squinting into the oppressive darkness of the pipe's interior, trying to understand the impossible phenomenon, and just as she was about to back out, convinced it was some strange, localized ventilation malfunction—

Whoosh.

With a final, powerful, all-consuming gust of wind, the pipe sucked her in. There was no time to scream, no time to even react. The darkness enveloped her completely, and she felt herself falling, tumbling head over heels into an unknown void.

Melody screamed, a sound swallowed by the rush of impossible wind, as she spiraled wildly through a kaleidoscopic tunnel. It was a dizzying vortex of swirling pink and soft white clouds, churning like cotton candy in a cosmic blender. The air whipped past her, cold and exhilarating, yet terrifyingly disorienting. She tumbled head over heels, gravity seemingly forgotten, watching the vibrant hues blur and shift around her as if she were plummeting through a living, breathing nebula. The impossible was happening; her entire reality was dissolving into a cascade of color and motion.

Then, piercing through the rushing wind and the dizzying silence of her fall, a familiar voice, undeniably warm and strong, reverberated through the tunnel, calling out with urgent clarity: "LUIGI!"

A gasp tore from Melody's throat, a sharp, choked sound of disbelief. "Mario?!" she choked out, her voice barely a whisper against the roaring current, a name whispered more as a question than a declaration.

Sure enough, there he was, materialized as if by magic within the swirling vortex. His iconic red cap, the bushy brown mustache, the familiar blue overalls—he was exactly as she knew him from countless games, vibrant and real. He was lunging forward, his hand outstretched towards her, his face etched with a desperate urgency, his eyes wide and familiar.

"Take my hand, sis!" he shouted, his voice ringing out, clear and powerful even over the rushing wind, infused with an immediate, undeniable bond.

"Sis?!" she shouted back, utterly overwhelmed by the sudden, bewildering confusion of her new reality and the profound fear of her situation. This man, a character from a game, was calling her 'sis'? 

"It's gonna be okay!" Mario promised, his voice carrying the reassuring warmth she had always imagined, his outstretched hand reaching closer, "Nothing can hurt us as long as we're together!"

Before she could even begin to process his words, before she could respond, before her outstretched fingers could even brush his, an unseen, powerful current within the swirling tunnel yanked her violently away. She felt a sudden, brutal jerk, ripping her through the impossibly fast-moving air, propelling her further into the chaotic depths of the tunnel.

"MARIOOO!" she screamed, her voice raw with a desperate, heartbroken cry, a plea to the fading image of her sudden, impossible brother.

"LUIGIII!" was the last thing she heard, Mario's voice echoing in her ears, filled with the same frantic desperation, before the swirling pink and white clouds swallowed her whole, and she vanished, plummeting into the gaping, waiting maw of another pipe, its darkness promising yet another unknown.

**********

She woke up abruptly, gasping for breath, the taste of stale, metallic air thick and cloying in her mouth, like rust and decay. Disorientation was her first sensation, a dizzying, nauseating spin in her head that threatened to drag her back into unconsciousness. She was lying on cold, damp earth, the chill seeping into her very bones, surrounded by an oppressive, inky darkness that seemed to actively swallow all light, pressing in on her from all sides. The air itself was a heavy, suffocating blanket, laden with the chilling scent of damp soil, profound decay, and something acrid, almost sulfuric, that burned in her nostrils. She could hear the rhythmic drip-drip-drip of unseen moisture falling from somewhere above, and the faint, unsettling rustle of unseen things moving in the impenetrable gloom, brushing against hidden undergrowth. Her heart hammered against her ribs, a frantic, trapped bird.

Her hand immediately flew to her upper lip, a nervous, almost unconscious gesture, a desperate need for a familiar anchor in this alien nightmare. The fake mustache, miraculously, was still there, clinging stubbornly to her skin, a ridiculous, flimsy piece of costuming in this horrifying reality. Her fingers brushed against it, a small, tangible, almost painful link to the brightly lit, sane world she’d left behind. She checked her pocket, a surge of raw anxiety twisting her stomach—relief, sharp and instantaneous, flooded her as her fingers closed around the small, reassuringly solid bottle. The glue remover was intact, a tiny, precious piece of her old life that might, just might, allow her to shed this absurd disguise and return to being just Melody.

Then, with a sickening, gut-wrenching lurch in her stomach, the truth slammed into her. She was here. She was actually here.

The Darklands.

She recognized it instantly—not from casual Browse of games or fleeting glances at movie trailers, but from the visceral terror that tightened her chest. The jagged, obsidian rocks that clawed at the bruised, perpetually twilight sky. The ominous, sickly green glow emanating from unseen fissures in the ground, hinting at rivers of molten lava beneath, a vile illumination that pulsed with malevolence. This wasn't a game rendered in pixels; this was raw, breathing, palpable evil. It was even worse in person, a nightmarish landscape that pressed in on her, a palpable sense of dread and despair hanging heavy in the oppressive atmosphere. It was a twisted, brutal, soul-crushing version of the in-game world she knew, and every fiber of her being screamed to escape. Melody shuddered, a full-body tremor that was more profound existential horror than simple fear or disorientation.

She clutched the small flashlight she’d had in her bag, its plastic casing slick with condensation, and clicked it on. A weak, flickering beam of light, pitifully thin, sliced through the suffocating gloom, battling against the overwhelming darkness. "This is just a dream... just a dream," she whispered, the desperate words thin and fragile, a frantic mantra against the growing terror, barely audible in the vast, unnerving silence. The flashlight, mirroring her own internal trembling, shook erratically in her hands, casting distorted, dancing shadows that mocked her fragile hope. "A very vivid one..." Her voice cracked, on the verge of breaking completely.

Suddenly, with a frantic flutter and a leathery whoosh of unseen wings, a swarm of dark, indistinct shapes erupted from the gnarled, skeletal branches of a nearby, ancient tree. They were bats, their cries piercing and sharp, tearing through the quiet, unsettling her with their sudden, swarming presence.

"OH MY GOD!" Melody screamed, a raw, involuntary sound of pure terror, her voice cracking with the strain.

Her flashlight flickered once, twice, a dying pulse of hope, then with a soft, ominous click, died completely, plunging her back into an absolute, suffocating darkness that felt even more profound and isolating than before. A cold, suffocating terror clamped around her throat, choking off her breath.

"No, no, no—come on!" she smacked the dead flashlight desperately against her palm, a futile, desperate plea to the unresponsive device, tears stinging her eyes. Just then—through the oppressive blackness, a faint, malevolent glow. Two piercing, pinprick red eyes, utterly devoid of life, stared back at her directly ahead.

An undead Koopa. Its shell was a fractured, rotten husk, its limbs skeletal, barely held together by decaying strips of green flesh that clung to bone, and it moved with a horrifying, jerky, shambling gait, dragging one leg behind it. Its eyes, those terrifying red pinpricks, glowed with an unholy, hungry light, fixed with chilling certainty on her. The stench of grave dirt and decay wafted off it, nauseating and immediate.

"AAH!" she shrieked, a high, piercing scream born of pure, primal, unadulterated fear, the sound echoing briefly in the chilling forest. She stumbled backward, tripping over unseen roots and rocks, her legs tangling, almost falling.

Miraculously, as if responding to her sheer terror, the flashlight flickered back on with a sudden, jarring burst of light, just in time to illuminate the grotesque, rotting face of the Koopa inches away from her, its decaying jaws agape in a silent, predatory snarl. With a renewed, desperate surge of adrenaline, fueled by pure instinct, she spun and ran, blindly crashing through unseen brush and dodging the low-hanging, thorny branches that whipped at her face and clothes, leaving stinging welts. The thorny undergrowth seemed to grasp at her, trying to hold her back, to deliver her to the horror pursuing her. Then, just as she ducked under a particularly low, sturdy branch, she felt it snag on something behind her. A sickening crunch echoed through the night, followed by a wet thud. She risked a glance back, her heart lodged in her throat—and miraculously—the low branch, now broken from its trunk, had swung back with incredible, improbable force, taking the undead Koopa squarely in its already decaying face, knocking it out cold with a sickening, splattering crack of bone and shell.

She skidded to a halt a few yards away, gasping, hands on her knees, her lungs burning, raw from the cold, acrid air. Her heart raced like a frantic hummingbird's wings, threatening to burst from her chest. Then, a breathless, almost hysterical chuckle escaped her lips, a mixture of profound terror and an absurd, disbelieving relief. She pushed a damp, stringy strand of hair from her face, her eyes wide and slightly wild. "I can't believe I'm saying this, but... you just got a-Luigi'd!" The sheer, desperate ridiculousness of the situation, coupled with her improbable, narrow escape, struck her with a wave of manic, almost delirious relief. She was alive. She was terrified. And she was truly, utterly, hopelessly, Luigi.

No time to celebrate, though. The distinct sound of more shuffling, more guttural, distant groans, and the unmistakable clatter of bones, was growing louder, closer. She bolted again, adrenaline still coursing through her veins, a cold, hard knot of fear replacing the fleeting hysteria. She leaped across precariously balanced lava stones that glowed ominously in the gloom, their radiating heat scorching her bare ankles, the air shimmering above them like a cruel mirage. It felt exactly like navigating a perilous boss level, one she hadn't prepared for. Reaching the other side of a fiery chasm, her legs burning, she spotted a heavy, metal door set into the unforgiving rock face. She reached it, fumbled with the cold handle, and slammed the door behind her with a resounding, echoing clang that vibrated through her very bones. She leaned against it, panting, her chest heaving, lungs aching, listening desperately for any sounds from outside, straining to hear over her own ragged breaths.

"Safe. For now." she whispered, the words a fragile, desperate mantra of survival against the vast, encompassing dread. Her voice was raspy, barely audible, a profound exhaustion settling over her.

But she'd forgotten one terrifying, fundamental thing about the Darklands. As she caught her breath, trying to slow the frantic pounding in her chest, a chorus of faint, eerie giggles and high-pitched, unintelligible whispers drifted through the thick metal door, closer than she'd like. The sounds were playful, yet utterly sinister, prickling the hairs on the back of her neck. It was a sound she knew all too well from the games. It couldn't be.

"SHY GUYS?!" The question was a strangled gasp, a punch to the gut, the last vestige of her fragile sense of security shattering. The dread returned, cold and absolute, settling deep in her bones. There was no escape. Not truly.

************

[Later...]

Dragged by masked Shy Guys, whose silent, gliding movements felt more like a predatory glide than a walk, their crimson robes a splash of stark, unsettling color against the gloomy stone, "Luigi" was thrown to the ground in front of Bowser’s throne. The impact was a jarring, breath-stealing slam that sent a fresh wave of pain radiating through her already aching body. Dust, heavy and ancient, plumed around her, momentarily obscuring the grotesque faces carved into the pillars that flanked the throne. It settled on her tattered overalls, clinging to the grimy fabric like a second skin.

“We found him in the Darklands,” said one wearing a black mask, their voice a flat, hollow echo that seemed to steal the very air from the room. The air in the throne room hung heavy and still, thick with the metallic tang of Bowser's raw power and the cloying, stagnant scent of old magic. Every breath felt like drawing in dust and despair.

“Hmph. Leave him to me,” Bowser growled, his voice a deep, resonant rumble that didn't just fill the vast chamber but vibrated through the very floor beneath Luigi’s cheek. It was a sound of primal authority, a predator's undisputed claim.

Kamek, with a flick of his wrist, loosened her binds, the ropes dissolving with a faint, almost sickly sweet scent of ozone and the subtle crackle of residual magic. The sudden release left her wrists feeling strangely weightless, then abruptly raw and chafed from the friction, a stinging reminder of her capture. Bowser stepped forward, his massive, spiked shell gleaming dully in the low light, his heavy footsteps echoing like hammer blows against the stone. He eyed her curiously, a predatory glint, ancient and cold, burning in his sharp, reptilian eyes. It was a gaze that didn't just see her, but weighed her, assessed her potential for torment, sending an icy tendril of dread coiling around her heart.

“What’s your name?”

She hesitated, every muscle in her body tense, coiled tight like a spring. Her heart hammered against her ribs, a frantic, desperate drumbeat that filled her ears, drowning out the oppressive silence of the room. It was the sound of a trapped thing, beating against its cage. Her real name, the one whispered by her mother, didn’t seem to fit anymore. Not here, not in this monstrous place where fear was a tangible presence, a cold hand on her throat. She wasn’t that scared orphan girl anymore. She couldn't be.

“…Luigi,” she said quietly, the name feeling small, fragile, and utterly inadequate against the towering menace before her. It was a borrowed name, a desperate shield, and it trembled on her tongue.

She was Mario’s sister now. She had to be. Mario had called her “sis” earlier. That meant something. It was a desperate thread of connection, a lifeline thrown into a churning abyss of despair. She clung to it with white-knuckled desperation, a silent vow to protect that bond, to be worthy of it.

Bowser loomed closer, his immense bulk casting a suffocating shadow over her, making the air around her feel heavy, difficult to breathe. The faint, earthy smell of his scales reached her, a scent both animalistic and oddly ancient. His voice was a low, smug purr that slithered into her mind. “Not sure if you know who I am, but I’m about to marry a princess… and rule the world.”

He gently touched her chin, his rough, clawed finger surprisingly light yet unnervingly intimate, a sickening caress that made her skin crawl. It felt like a spider scuttling over her flesh. She swallowed hard, the act a painful rasp in her throat, a knot of pure, unadulterated terror tightening within her, making it impossible to draw a full breath.

“There’s one problem, Luigi,” he continued, adjusting his hat with a theatrical flourish, a gesture of casual arrogance that inflamed a spark of impotent rage within her, even as the cold grip of fear tightened. “There’s a human with a mustache like yours traveling with my fiancée.”

He twirled his fake mustache, the synthetic hairs rustling softly, a grotesque, almost childish parody that mocked not just her brother, but the very idea of humanity. It made her stomach churn.

“Do you know him?”

“know? No!” she yelped, the denial bursting from her, raw and desperate, laced with a wild, untamed fear that made her voice crack. It was a scream born of instinct, a desperate attempt to sever a connection she knew was already damning.

“ah, tough one I see…” He tugged the fake hair painfully. “maybe this will help”

“OW! You think I know every human with a mustache and a letter with his first name on it? Because I dont—OW!!” The sharp, searing pain from the tug on her upper lip was a vicious physical reminder of her helplessness, a reflection of the deeper, twisting agony in her gut. Her voice was thin, reedy, on the verge of a full sob, tears pricking at the corners of her eyes, blurring the monstrous face above her.

Another yank. She whimpered, a small, wounded sound, like a cornered animal. “Do you know him!?”

“Yes! Yes, ok yes I know him!” she cried, the words tearing from her, a desperate, broken confession ripped out by the sheer, overwhelming force of terror and a frantic need for the torment to cease. She tasted the bitter tang of surrender on her tongue. “He’s my brother Mario, and he’s the best in the world!” A desperate surge of defiant love, fierce and pure, momentarily pushed back the tidal wave of fear, even as the grim realization of her admission, the fatal blow she had just delivered, crashed over her.

With a snarl, Bowser ripped off half her mustache and threw it to the floor. The sound of the tearing adhesive was a sickening rip, followed by a sharp, burning agony that flared across her upper lip, a searing, raw wound left exposed. She cried out, a small, choked gasp of pain, and then the bitter, metallic taste of fresh blood flooded her mouth as she hit the cold, unforgiving stone, the impact jarring her teeth.

“Get him out of my sight! Let’s see how tough Mario is when he watches me kill his brother!” His final words, dripping with a malevolent glee, echoed in the vast, silent chamber, each syllable a hammer blow to her soul, solidifying the icy grip of absolute despair around her heart. The world seemed to shrink, collapsing in on itself, leaving only the chilling promise of unspeakable horror.

[SpongeBob narrator voice] A few moments later…

Her cage hit the ground with a sickening, metallic thud that reverberated through the bars, rattling her skull with a jarring impact. The sound echoed the painful lurch in her stomach, and a fresh wave of nausea washed over her.

“OW…” The word was a weak, involuntary gasp, a raw sound ripped from her throat as a sharp pain bloomed behind her eyes.

She glanced down, her vision swimming for a moment before focusing through the haze of discomfort.

“Great. Lava. Of course…” The words were laced with a bitter, exhausted sarcasm, a thin shield against the growing terror. The sight of the bubbling, fiery expanse beneath her made her breath catch, and a desperate, hopeless laugh almost escaped her lips.

The heat crept up fast, not just a warmth, but a suffocating, oppressive wave that pressed in from all sides. It felt like an invisible hand, pushing against her, stealing the very air from her lungs. The air shimmered, distorting the view of the churning orange and black abyss below, making the imminent threat feel even more surreal and horrifying. A faint, acrid smell, like burning rock and sulfur, began to prickle in her nostrils.

This was going to be a hellish waiting game. And in the simmering heat, suspended above a molten inferno, every agonizing second felt like an eternity.

Chapter Text

Luigi woke up from her peaceful slumber; today was her day off. She yawned and stretched as she glanced at the ceiling. She wasn't ready to get out of bed yet. Luigi frowned and started thinking… It had been three months since the Mushroom Kingdom and Brooklyn incident. Things happened exactly like in the movie. Mario saved Luigi, they got sucked into Brooklyn, beat up Bowser with the Super Star, and shrunk the king with the blue mushroom.

The way she felt with the Super Star power-up was exhilarating. The way she kicked ass was fun. She felt terrible. She wasn't much of a violent person. However, the young girl in green didn't hurt anyone too badly. The brunette had morals, after all. She did have more fun than in her other world, though. The 19-year-old watched her old life fade away over the time she was here. She got so used to this new world that she even liked it more than her past life. In this world, unlike the others, Luigi has a sibling who cares about her a lot. She was no longer alone, and the feeling of isolation had slowly dissipated. Luigi surprisingly accepted what happened to her pretty fast. Maybe it was because she felt so lonely and sad being a single child in an orphanage where she was constantly bullied; the girl in green certainly didn't miss it.

She also didn't miss that dang itchy mustache either; how Mario still had his was a mystery to her. It was funny when she did remove her fake mustache and how the others reacted to finding out, she was a girl. Well, except Mario, of course. Another person still didn't know she was a girl, though. However, Luigi most definitely wasn't going to tell him. At least not yet. Just thinking about the huge Koopa finding out made Luigi blush and cover her face under her covers. She frowned again. What did she care if he did find out? He's the king of the Koopas! She highly doubted he even noticed.

Part of her was a bit jealous of the Princess because unlike her… she had men after her heart. Where Peach was confident and extroverted, Luigi was timid and introverted. The girl in green finds it challenging to make friends and socialize. The Princess, well, she can light up any room. Peach also had a nice fit body, while the young brunette, well petite… Sure, she has concise wavy hair that frames her face perfectly and sapphire blue eyes that twinkle when she smiles. But that was about it. At least… she felt that way… Despite her efforts, Luigi never found someone to love or have that love reciprocated. Luigi sighed. Why did she keep degrading herself? The young brunette was in a new life, a fresh start. She should stop hating herself so much. She wasn't Melody Ann Baker anymore. She was Luigi, Mario's little sister. She can't explain exactly how that happened, but she wasn't about to question what fate had in store for her and why.

Luigi smelled Bacon coming from the kitchen, which caused her stomach to growl in protest. She left the bed and headed to the bathroom to wash her face and dress. She wore a dark green tank top, long black baggy pants, and black and white Converse. When the brunette finished getting dressed, she headed down the stairs and into the kitchen, "There she is, morning Lu!" Mario greeted happily.

"Do my eyes deceive me, my big brother making Bacon and eggs? What's the special occasion?" she joked and sat down in front of the stool. She placed her elbow down and rested her face on her left hand.

"Ha ha, very funny, Lu" he smiled and placed the plate full of food in front of Luigi.

Luigi gasped playfully, "he even made her coffee. It's the end of the world!" she finished dramatically. Mario shook his head and ruffled her hair as they laughed.

The young brunette grabbed her fork and started eating, "you off to see the Princess today?" Mario asked curiously.

"why? Do you want me to give her a message? Uh! Maybe a letter" She wiggled her eyebrows and gave him a silly smile.

The man in red blushed and gave a soft punch to his little sister's shoulder and smiled, "No, just wanted to know if… I can… join you at the castle, is all," he said, rubbing his head shyly.

Luigi laughed and replied, "Okay, sure, big brother, you can tag along" They both silently finished their breakfast and headed to the Princesses Palace.

When they arrived, they were greeted by all the guards on their way to the throne room, and Luigi happily greeted them back. When they finally reached the Princess, she was happy to see them both. "Luigi! just the girl I wanted to see!" Peach smiled, "Oh! Hi, Mario!"

Luigi wanted to giggle like a fangirl at the pretty sight; they did look like love birds. She hated that she had to interrupt them and coughed to get their attention," you requested to see me, Princess?"

"Call me Peach, please. We're friends now. There's no need for formalities," she offered kindly.

Luigi nodded. "Okay, princess, err, I mean, Peach." she corrected and then continued," Is there something you need me for?"

She grabbed my hands and replied, "Ah! Yes, I did... well, you see," She bit her lip and continued, "so one of my Toads, the one assigned to watch over Bowser... hurt his leg and can't do his job for three weeks. And could you take his place" I raised my eyebrows at her. "It's okay to say no; I won't force you to do this."

The Princess stared at Luigi in anticipation as she processed what Peach had said, "so... you want me?" pointed at herself, she nodded, "to babysit Bowser for three weeks?" she questioned.

Peach gave her another nod, "It's okay to say no, you know... if you don't want to," she waved her hand.

The girl in green thought about this thoroughly. 'It's just three weeks; what harm could there be, right?' she thought. Luigi shrugged her shoulder and sighed deeply, "She, why not…."

Peach quickly hugged her and started jumping up and down. "Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!"

Mario looked at his sister with concern. "Wuigee, are you sure? It's okay. You don't have to do this if you don't feel like doing it," he asked, using her silly nickname. She loved her brother's concern for her, but she was her person and wanted to do this to help more in the kingdom. Luigi assured her brother that everything would be alright and that she would be okay.

**** Le-tiny time skip****

She was in front of the door where Bowser was held prisoner. She started to regret ever agreeing to this, but alas, there was no turning back. Luigi sighed and pushed it open. By the door, the girl in green could hear him playing on the piano; surprisingly, the song wasn't about Peaches! The music was smooth and enticing, soft to the ears. It made her smile. She carefully tried to shut the door as silently as possible. However, the brunette slipped and closed the door too roughly, causing the Koopa king to stop what he was doing.

Luigi stared at the door, red as a tomato. She could feel Bowser glaring daggers at her. "Look who the cat dragged in!" a squeaky voice said as the girl in green took another deep breath. "If it isn't Mario's little wimpy Broth- huh?" (queue the Spandau Ballet - True. song!)

Bowser's heart was beating so hard he could feel it in his throat and hear it in his ears; everything she did, he saw in slow motion. Bowser's tail wagged as he stared at this beautiful angel before him. The Koopa couldn't believe he was thinking this, but she was prettier than the Princess. His tail never wagged for Peaches or anyone, for that matter. 'Is this what real love feels like?' he wondered. Why didn't he notice her before? Oh, right... she had a mustache and a fake nose. He felt like he wanted to get to know her. he wanted to know her likes and dislikes, her favorite things. He thought he knew what love was with Peach, but he was wrong. Now, Bowser knew what butterflies in your stomach felt like. He was amazed he was of this newfound feeling.

"umm… surprise?" Bowser kept on staring, and she couldn't help but blush. "I didn't expect it to be that shocking…" she twiddled with her fingers.

He pretended to scoff. "Of course, it's shocking! I thought you were a guy," Bowser tried to act as if nothing had just happened and continued, "Tch! You messed up my jam!" the tiny koopa crossed his arms and turned around to blush, voided eye contact with her. Bowser didn't want her to see him this way. He tried to keep his tail under control as well. The Koopa king wanted to seem cool and uninterested.

"Sorry?" she walked over to the small cage.

"what are you doing here anyways, Green Bean?" he asked curiously.

"Oh, um, I'm doing the Princess a favor and watching over you for three weeks," she replied, red as a tomato.

Well, it looks like Bowser was going to have three exciting weeks…

Chapter Text

***Bowser POV***
 
It had been three days since I last saw her, but it felt like an eternity. Whenever Luigi left, I felt a sense of emptiness and longing until my Green Bean arrived the next day. I eagerly awaited her arrival, my tail wagging with excitement. As I stared at the door, I counted the seconds until I saw her beautiful face again. Suddenly, I heard a click at the door. Could it be her already? I quickly straightened my hair and cleared my throat before rushing to the piano. I sat down and pretended to inspect it for dust, but inside, I was excited like a lovesick puppy.
 
As the door opened, there she was - stunning as always. "Ah, Greeny. I didn't see you there! You've been there long?" I cringed at my premature words and hit my forehead with my hand. 'What was I thinking? Stupid!' Hoping Luigi didn't notice my inner monologue, I watched Green Bean dance in with earmuffs over her ears. She was lost in thought, unaware of my presence. Her adorable demeanor and absent-mindedness made me curious, and I leaned against the piano, resting my cheek on my hand, observing her.
 
Luigi caught my gaze and greeted me warmly, "Hey there! I brought a few things to keep us entertained. I hope that's alright." I smiled at the idea, "Of course, that sounds wonderful." Although I couldn't help but feel that simply being in her company was already enough entertainment for me, I decided to keep that to myself so as not to seem intrusive. It didn't matter anyways, as she was preoccupied with rifling through her bag for the last few items she had brought along.
 
"So um...ahem...why are you wearing earmuffs? It's not even winter yet," I inquired curiously. She took them off and responded with a smile, "Oh, these aren't earmuffs. They're actually headphones, silly." Her beautiful smile made my heart flutter. I was overwhelmed by the gesture. Although Luigi's gift was sweet, I didn't need anything else when I had her. "What are you using all these gadgets for?" I asked as she continued working.
 
"So, what can you do with these gadgets?" I asked, intrigued by the technologies my green angel had at her disposal.
 
"Well, like my headphones, you can hear music from these speakers," Luigi replied with a smile.
 
I couldn't help but be impressed by her collection of cutting-edge devices. I watched her in awe as she worked, grateful to have her by my side.
 
Suddenly, she approached my cage and asked, "Can I move you for a moment?" I nodded, too caught up in her beauty to speak. Luigi walked toward the stage and placed my cell gently in front of it. "I thought you might like some movies," Luigi said softly. She blushed and looked away, tucking her hair behind her ear.
 
'Don't blush, Don't Blush! GODS! WHY DOES SHE LOOK SO CUTE!?' I internally screamed. I just wanted to hold and kiss her and never let her go. She set a red blanket and darkened the place. How would she see this 'movie' with me if she was covering everything up from her view? "Just one more thing. I looked at Luigi with a questioning expression. To my surprise, she ate the blue mushroom from her pocket, causing her to shrink to my size. Although I remained slightly more prominent than her, I was thrilled she dared to take such a bold move. Seeing my Green Angel eye to eye and not from a miniature person's perspective was beautiful, and my tail wagged excitedly.
 
She blushed fifty shades of red and said, "H-here." She handed me some kind of rectangular thingy, shyly avoiding eye contact. Our hands brushed; hers felt so soft, "It's called a remote, so you can pick the movie..." I cluelessly looked at the thing. How do I do that? Luigi saw my confusion and explained how the buttons worked and what they were used for; I quickly learned how and picked a movie to watch. And so, that's how we spent the day, watching all kinds of these movies she loved so much. I was also starting to like them a lot; I couldn't wait to see the series she kept mentioning. Green Bean had said they were like movies but better.
 
We were watching one of her favorites, Beauty and the Beast. I asked questions here and there, and Luigi answered them happily. During the movie, and without notice, we sat closer to each other... as close as we could get. Both were intrigued, watching Gaston stab the Beast and watched as the villain fell to his awaiting death. I saw Luigi shed tears at the part where the Beast was "dying" 'It gets me every time,' she whispered. I purposely placed my hand over hers and acted oblivious to my action; we both blushed and looked away; her hands felt as soft as I thought. There was a buzzing sound, and Luigi paused the movie to answer what she said was a phone, whatever that was. I could see who it was, and I rolled my eyes. "Hey, Mario…" I heard her say, and I gagged; she quickly stood up" I didn't realize it was this late… yeah, no, sorry, I must have lost track of time… ok, I'll be back home soon, ok, ok love you too bye."
 
She looked at me with sad sympathy, "You have to go, huh…." I said with a sour-looking face; it was more a statement than a question.
 
She nodded, but don't worry! I'll leave you this stuff. It's got a lot of battery, so I don't need to go to my world and charge it just yet! Tomorrow I'll show you those series I was talking about." She smiled and stood up; Luigi reached for the opposite pocket of where the blue mushroom was and took out a red one. The young brunette ate it and turned her regular size. She rushed to the door and waved at me. "See you tomorrow!"
 
I waved back, and there it was, that lonely feeling again… I missed my Greeny already, and she was barely gone. I placed my elbow on my knee and my hand on my cheek and pressed the play button. I saw Bell and what used to be the Beast kiss, "Lucky bastard…." I mumbled grumpily.
 
**** Luigi's POV***
 *SpongeBob narrator voice* ( a few moments later)
 
Mario was talking on the phone with their mother, while Luigi lay on the couch staring at the ceiling; Bowser was not what she expected. The young girl thought he would have the same attitude as the first time they met, but it wasn't like that. He had been nice these couple of days, as lovely as he could be. That's one of the reasons why she decided to try and be his friend. Oh, who was she trying to kid, though? Luigi was falling for the Koopa. What was she thinking, sneaking a blue mushroom and eating it? If Mario found out, he would flip! But she felt so good doing it; he looked better close up.
 
Luigi felt some kind of fire ignited when she was so close to him; the young brunette had felt dazed, hypnotized even. For the first time, she felt butterflies in her stomach. The feel of his hand brushing hers felt exhilarating, and when he placed his hand over her by accident felt so perfect, at least, she thought it was by accident. Bowser probably didn't notice where he had put it.
 
Awe man… She covered her blushing face; Luigi felt like a circus was running through her stomach, doing flips. Mario finished talking to their mother, moved Luigi's feet, and placed them over his to sit on the couch. He looked at his sister seriously, "Now tell me… why are you home so late, Lu?"
 
She tried not to look panicked and replied, "I, uh, fell asleep?" she hoped she looked convincing.
 
The man in red smirked, "Bowser's got that bored, huh?" he laughed.
 
"hahaha yeah…" Luigi replied.
 
"Well, try not to fall asleep tomorrow, ok; you had me worried," he messes her hair a bit and grabs his laptop. "Wanna watch some movies?"
 
Luigi stretched and yawned, "Actually, if you don't mind, I'm gonna hit the hay" She went to the direction of her room and got up off the couch, and started walking up the stairs.
 
Mario nodded and said, "Oh hey, Ma wants us to come over for dinner tomorrow. Says she wants us there by seven."
 
"ay-ay, captain!" she playfully saluted and went up the stair and to her room.
 
The girl in green took a shower, brushed her teeth, and went to bed. She laid sideways with her right hand under her pillow and blushed. Why oh why was she falling for the enemy. Luigi quickly fell asleep and started to dream of a certain king of the koopas.

Chapter Text

***Mario POV***

Mario exuded kindness and amiability, always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. His devotion to his loved ones was unparalleled, with his sister being his top priority. Mario was fiercely protective of her, and he would go to great lengths to ensure her safety and happiness. However, recent events led to his sister becoming more independent, which left Mario ambivalent. He wasn't sure whether this was a positive or negative development, but he was pleased to witness his sister's growth and self-discovery. Although he worried that Luigi no longer needed him, he was proud of his sister for breaking out of her shell. Her newfound cheerfulness and confidence were apparent, and Mario appreciated the positive changes he observed in her. Although Mario attributed some of these changes to the Mushroom Kingdom, he was content knowing that his sister was content.

He stood outside his sister's door. Mario couldn't help but wonder what had caused such a sudden change in her. The door opened before he could even knock, and there she was,  " Mario! Hey, what's up?"

The man in red hugged his sister tightly and whispered into her ear, "I just wanted you to know that I love you, and I'll always be here for you."

Luigi hugged him, smiled, and asked, "What brought this on?"

Mario smiled and held her close, content to let his actions speak louder than words. Following breakfast, they silently went their separate ways to attend to their daily responsibilities. He couldn't help but feel a sense of pride towards his sister for the positive changes she had made in her life. He recognized that he had no right to hinder her progress and growth. Despite their obstacles, he vowed to always be there for her, providing emotional and physical support and protection as any loving big brother would…

***Luigi's POV***

Luigi found it odd that her sibling behaved in such a manner. However, she decided to overlook it and consider it normal sibling conduct. Before embarking on her journey, the girl in green ensured she had another blue mushroom in her pocket. She also acquired a red one for later when she had to leave. With excitement bubbling inside her, she approached the grand castle. Upon entering, the Princess warmly greeted her, "Good morning, Luigi! You're just the person I was hoping to run into." With a gentle grip on her arm, the Princess guided her somewhere else.

"Peach, Bowser is in the opposite direction," Luigi politely pointed out.

Peach smiled and replied, " I know; there's just someone I want you to meet" She led her into another room. With a sense of hesitation, Luigi followed Peach into the adjacent room. The brunette couldn't help but wonder who Peach wanted her to meet. To Luigi's amazement, the person standing before her was none other than Daisy, whom she knew much about in her past life. It was a delightful surprise to come face-to-face with her. Surprisingly, they both quickly hit it off, and before she knew it, they were having a great time together. Luigi felt grateful to Peach for introducing him to this new friend.

"I nearly forgot my reason for coming here," she said, her thoughts racing to recall the purpose of her visit. "It was lovely to meet you, princess..." Luigi slightly bowed and began walking to Bowser's holding room, but Peach gently pulled on the girl's sleeve, stopping her in his tracks.

"It's okay, Luigi. I'm sure the brute will manage just fine on his own for today," reassured the young blond. Luigi felt a bit annoyed over the nickname she had bestowed upon him. Nevertheless, she chose to remain and relish her exchange with the princesses, resolving to make amends with Bowser the next day. The group of girls were enjoying themselves, chatting and giggling away. However, things took a turn when the princesses began discussing politics. The girl in green started feeling out of place as she wasn't well-versed in politics. Afraid of making a mistake, she quietly excused herself from the conversation. She always thought it better to step back from a discussion if you don't feel comfortable or knowledgeable about the topic being discussed. It's better to be safe than sorry, she always says.

The young girl in green quietly slipped out of the room and went to where Bowser was, forget about making amends she's going there now! As soon as she arrived, the girl in green noticed that he was utterly absorbed in the first Avengers movie, with a smirk on his face every time Loki appeared on the screen. She could tell that he had a strong liking for that particular character. It's possible that he sees some similarities between himself and Loki, or maybe he appreciates the character's desire for world domination. Luigi couldn't help but smile at seeing him watching the movie. He looked undeniably adorable, whether fully engaged in the storyline or simply enjoying the ambiance. The brunette couldn't decide which was better, seeing the excitement in his eyes or the peacefulness in his expression. Either way, it was a joy to watch him.

Luigi's presence suddenly caught Bowser's attention. He immediately paused the movie and turned to her, "Hey! Where were you?" he asked in a curious tone. It was clear that Bowser was surprised to see Luigi and wanted to know what she had been up to. Luigi felt a tinge of embarrassment when Bowser inquired about her whereabouts. She was going to make an excuse but decided otherwise.

"Oh, the princess wanted me to meet one of her friends. Sorry about that!" She rubbed the back of her head shyly, feeling a bit self-conscious about the attention she was getting. Bowser didn't seem bothered and resumed playing the movie" I see you found the Avengers movie"

"Ha, yeah, this Loki character is something else. I like him!" he acknowledged. It's hard not to appreciate his wit and charm. He's always got something up his sleeve, and you never know what he's going to do next. she agreed Loki is entertaining to watch, that's for sure.

"Well there's a series called Loki," she said as she wiggled her eyebrows. This caught his attention and he nodded approvingly. He wasn't quite sure what a series was, but if it had Loki in it, he couldn't wait to watch it. And that's how they spent their day, watching the Loki series. I

 Luigi must admit Bowser was growing on her fast. Spending some quiet moments with him is truly enjoyable, and she finds it more relaxing and satisfying than discussing politics with the princesses.

Luigi ingested the blue mushroom once more, causing her to shrink down to the size of the Koopas again. It was quite a fascinating sight to behold. Everything around her seemed so much more significant in comparison! She envisioned all the secret hideouts and unreachable nooks she could explore, feeling a sense of excitement and adventure coursing through her veins. The world was her playground, and with this newfound ability, she felt unstoppable. She couldn't wait to see where this power-up could take her. Sometimes, even seemingly weak abilities can surprise us with their usefulness. The blue mushroom may not be the most powerful, but it can certainly come in handy in certain situations.

As they sat there, they both realized they had watched almost everything worth watching on the tablet. They looked at each other and laughed, realizing they had spent the entire day watching movies and series again. Then they started talking to one another, sharing stories, and getting to know each other better. The conversation flowed easily, and before they knew it, hours had passed. It was a nice change of pace from the mindless entertainment they had been consuming all day. The young girl glanced at her watch, Luigi realized it was getting late. She needed to pick up the pace and make it home quickly to change into something appropriate for dinner at her mother's house. Despite feeling rushed, she was excited to spend quality time with her parents and loved ones. With a heavy heart, Luigi ate the red mushroom and bid her farewells to Bowser and started walking toward her humble abode.

The sun was setting, casting a warm amber glow across the sky. She couldn't help but feel a little sad as she replayed the memories of her time spent with Bowser in her mind. Nonetheless, she knew that it was time to head back home and get ready to go to dinner. The gentle breeze rustled through her hair as she walked, and the birds chirping provided soothing background music. It was a peaceful evening, and she couldn't be more grateful. Mario and Luigi were supposed to arrive at seven, so the brunette needed to be punctual and ready on time. She paced a little faster on her way home to ensure she wouldn't be late. Upon entering the house, Luigi noticed the lights were off. Mario was working late again. She immediately wondered how Ma would react to him arriving late for dinner and shivered. Luigi quickly and quietly rushed upstairs to shower, get dressed, and ensure she wasn't late for dinner. Because, hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.

*** A few moments later***

The young girl grabbed the spare key to her mother's house and unlocked the door. As she stepped inside, she noticed how quiet it was and wondered where the others were as she hung up her bag on the hanger near the door. "Ma, you here!?" she called out, to which her mother's voice responded from the kitchen. Luigi made her way to the kitchen, the aroma of her mother's freshly baked lasagna filled the girl's nostrils. Overcome with excitement, she couldn't help but exclaim, "Oh my god, that smells delicious!"

"Ah ah ah! Don't touch the food!" her mother scolded playfully, with a smile on her face. "You have to wait for the others," she said, as she wagged her finger at her daughter. The young girl giggled and eagerly waited for the rest of her family to arrive before diving into the delicious meal. It was always a special moment when they all sat down together to enjoy a home-cooked meal, and the anticipation only added to the excitement. Her mother's playful scolding was just a reminder that good things come to those who wait, and it was worth the wait to share this special moment with the people she loved. Ever since she started living this new life, Luigi fell in love with her new mother's cooking. She always made the most delicious meals and couldn't help but ask for seconds. There was something special about how she seasoned her dishes that just hit the spot. The young girl in green felt so lucky to have her in her life and able to enjoy her amazing cooking every time she visited. It's definitely one of the best things about living here in her opinion.

They heard the family gathering in the dining room and appeared to be thoroughly enjoying themselves. The scent of her mother's cooking filled the air, and it was clear to know that dinner was ready. It was comforting that the familiar smell always marked the end of the day and the beginning of a delightful meal.

The sound of her father's footsteps entered the kitchen. "There's my little girl!" he exclaimed, overjoyed at the sight of her. They embraced tightly, and her father sweetly kissed her forehead.

She happily responded with a greeting, "Hey, Dad." It was a touching moment for both of them.

"where is your brother? Dinner's almost ready and I don't see him" Mama Mario said, her hands planted firmly on her hips.

She shrugged and replied, "Probably working late again." She knew her brother would be in trouble if he didn't show up for dinner soon. She wanted to accompany him to their mother's house, but she left him a note and headed there alone. She was still trying to get used to the green pipes. She was still having difficulty adjusting and coming back and forth from them. Papa Mario suggested that he hurry before the food ran out and they ate it all, to which Mama responded by smacking him and giving him a stern look.

 Papa then exclaimed, "Ouch, what?! I was joking, woman!"

We then heard keys and the door opening, and there was Mario looking exhausted. The family greeted him warmly, asking about his day and if he needed anything. Mario smiled weakly and said he just needed some rest.

"Where is your sister? I thought she would be with you," her grandfather inquired.

"I am in the kitchen, Grandpa!" she responded cheerfully.

"Well, what are you doing over there? Come and say hello to your uncle!" her uncle exclaimed from the dining room.

"Excuse me, Ma. I'll help set the table shortly, okay?" Luigi kissed her on the cheek, and her mother dismissed her with a wave and a nod. Once she had finished exchanging pleasantries with her family, she and Mario eagerly pitched in to assist their mother with setting up the delicious food on the table. They all sat down for dinner and talked about their day, catching up on each other's lives. It was a pleasant and peaceful moment, and she felt grateful and happy to be a part of their family. She never felt so at home…

Chapter Text

*** Luigi's POV***
 
Dinner with her parents and family was a blast! They had so much to talk about and catch up on. But by the time Luigi got home, the brunette was utterly exhausted. She said goodnight to her brother and headed straight to her room for some much-needed shut-eye. Last night, she had a dream about someone special. They talked and laughed for what seemed like hours, and Luigi couldn't help but feel small in their presence. Their lips met hers; it was the most fantastic kiss she's ever experienced. The dream felt so real, yet it had an air of mystery. As someone who had never been kissed, the young girl could only imagine how it would feel. The brunette couldn't see their face but knew precisely who she dreamed of. When she woke up this morning, the girl in green had a warm feeling in her heart and a blush on her face. Luigi felt a little nervous but excited at the idea of sharing her life with this certain someone. As she got ready for the day, Luigi couldn't help but smile at the thought of him.
 
Luigi felt this morning had an uneasy feeling; it felt like there was something off like something was going to happen today. The brunette tried to shake off the feeling, but it lingered throughout the day. Luigi wasn't sure what it was, but the girl hoped it was just her imagination playing tricks on her. Even though Mario tried to convince her to stay home today, he also felt uneasy. But alas, Luigi had to go through with her promise to the Princess and head to the castle to look after Bowser. Mario decided to come along; he didn't want to leave his sister alone.
 
The walk to the castle felt eerie and heavy as if something was lurking in the shadows. Luigi couldn't shake off the feeling of unease, and every step felt like a burden. Mario kept a close eye on Luigi, sensing that something was wrong. They both remained vigilant, hoping their instincts were wrong and they would safely make it to the castle.
 
As they made their way towards the castle, relief washed over them. They were glad that the Toads were unharmed, and the Princess was pleased to see them. Mario and Peach were so caught up in their conversation that Luigi started to feel a little left out and uncomfortable. But she shrugged it off, telling herself that lovebirds will always be lovebirds. Feeling like she needed a break, Luigi checked on Bowser in his holding room. The girl in green wanted to make sure that he was doing well. She felt nervous as she approached the room but hoped that Bowser was okay. The young girl felt a sense of relief when she saw that he was doing alright, but there was still a nagging feeling in the back of her mind. Luigi couldn't shake the feeling that something was going to happen today.
 
*** Bowser's POV***
 
Bowser has been dreading the inevitable. There was only one week left of his Green Beans visits before he was stuck with that stupid Toad guard again. He can't stand the thought of spending another minute with that annoying little creature. It's bad enough he's stuck in this cell, but having to deal with that guard on top of it is just too much to bear. Bowser wishes he could find a way to escape, but he knows it's impossible. He'll just have to endure and hope his angel will return soon. He longed to spend his final week with his beloved Greeny in tranquility before being saddled with yet another guard. It was a pity, though; he liked spending time with her as his guard, which meant their quality time together would be limited. He cherished the moments they spent together.
 
"I really hope my Koopalings can come up with a solid plan to get me out of here," he muttered, feeling frustrated at having to rely on them. After all, their track record wasn't exactly stellar. But he knew he had no choice at this point and had to trust that they could execute the job correctly. "Well, it's better than a Goomba coming up with a plan." he thought, trying to stay positive. And so here he was, almost four months into this stupid cell, waiting anxiously for his Koopalings to devise a plan that would lead to his escape. At the same time, he eagerly looked forward to spending his last week with his green angel.
 
He heard a click at the door and caught sight of her standing there. Looking as stunningly beautiful as ever. It was hard to believe that this petite girl had become so important to him in just two short weeks. His previous infatuation with the Princess now seemed like a distant memory. "Hey there!" he greeted, a smirk playing on his lips. "Green Bean, you were just the girl I was waiting for." She rolled her eyes but couldn't help the smile that tugged at her lips.
 
"Oh really? You mean I'm the only girl you've been expecting because I'm the only one who visits your cell," she playfully bantered.
 
"Ha! You caught me," he chuckled. "But in all seriousness, Green Bean, you always brighten up my day with your visits. I appreciate it more than you know."
 
"Oh wow, King Bowser showing appreciation? That's quite unexpected," she exclaimed while placing a hand on her chest in fake surprise.
 
He pouted and said, "I appreciate things," trying to hide his amusement by acting serious. "by the way, your tablet ran out of battery," he said with irritation. Bowser was watching End-Game, and he was really getting into it. It was just getting to the best part when suddenly, the tablet shut down on him. He was so frustrated! He wanted to know what was going to happen next.
 
"I'm sorry to hear that," Luigi said sympathetically. She could see the disappointment on his face and knew he had been really looking forward to finishing the movie, "It's a good thing I brought my laptop with me," she confidently presented her laptop, and he eagerly demanded to start the movie where he left off. Luigi proceeded to boot up her computer. With enthusiasm, she asked where Bowser had left off, and he recalled the scene where 'the big green guy snapped his finger with the metal gauntlet.' After a while, Bowser got bored, and his attention was drawn away from the movie. He couldn't resist striking up a conversation with Luigi instead. They talked couple for hours, lost in each other's company.
 
As they talked, they suddenly heard a loud series of explosions in the distance. At first, they thought it was just their imagination, but as the noise grew louder, they realized that something was definitely happening. 'It's about time they showed up!' the king thought to himself. Bowser could sense her tension and unease. He could even smell it on her. Luigi was glad she didn't eat that blue mushroom. The brunette didn't think it would have been beneficial to consume that power-up. "Peach and the Toads might need my help!" she said frantically, her brow furrowed in concern. Bowser tried to stop her, but she was already determined to go. Just as she was about to leave, there was another explosion, this time coming from the room they were in. His heart was racing as he looked around the room. Everything shook in its place, and debris was everywhere. Suddenly, he noticed that the explosion had managed to open up his cage. Bowser was finally free. As the Koopa got out, he saw a red mushroom on the floor near him. It must have been hers.
 
The king of the Koopas quickly snatched the red object and devoured it eagerly, turning himself into his regular size again. "Man, it feels good to be me again!" he then noticed that a particular person wearing green was missing. "Oh no! Where is she!?" he exclaimed. When Bowser found Luigi,  she was unconscious, with debris all over and around her. He quickly rushed to her side and checked for a pulse. Thankfully, she was still alive. He couldn't help but feel guilty for not noticing she was missing sooner. He made a mental note to be more aware of his surroundings in the future for her sake. He carefully lifted his beloved angel, cradling her tenderly in his arms. He couldn't bear the thought of leaving her behind. As he made his way toward an exit, he sensed and heard a noise behind him. Turning around, he saw Iggy and Wendy standing there and happily staring back at him by the massive hole in the wall. The outside world loomed in the distance, beckoning him to step forward into freedom.
 
He growled and scolded his children for taking so long. Wendy, in turn, pointed the finger at her brother Iggy, blaming him for his inability to hurry up and finish the bombs to free their father. Iggy's response was to stick his tongue out and insult her fashion sense, but Wendy had none. With a fierce glare, she defended herself by claiming that she had a good fashion sense and that Iggy was just jealous. "Hurry up, let's go," Bowser said impatiently to the two bickering. They followed him to the vehicle they had arrived in, all eager to free their father from his 'unjust' imprisonment. He couldn't stand to spend another minute in this garishly pink place, it was starting to get to him, and he couldn't bear to spend another moment where he had spent too many months confined in a stupid cage. He was more than ready to leave. Bowser ensured his unconscious angel was comfortable in his arms; he was determined to be gentle with her as he carried her to safety. Hopefully, when his Green Beauty wakes up, she wouldn't be too mad she got kidnapped…
 
*** Mario's POV***
 
His heart was pounding as explosions echoed throughout the castle, and Mario couldn't help but worry for my sister's safety. The Princess urgently commanded him to look for Luigi. Peach had last seen his sister heading to the 'his' holding room, which only fueled the man in red's anxiety. Without wasting any time, he took off in the direction the Toads had seen her go, hoping he would find his sister safe and sound.
 
He ran through the castle halls, hearing explosions all around him. Suddenly, Mario made a hard turn toward Bowser's room. Just then, he felt an explosion nearby and was thrown off his feet, hitting a nearby pillar. He tried to get up, but the impact was hard enough to make him feel dizzy. His head was throbbing. Mario placed his hand on his forehead and saw blood on his hands. It was a chaotic and scary situation, but the man in red knew he had to keep moving to find his sister. The dizziness didn't stop him from reaching his sister; he kept running toward the room.
 
"Luigi!" the man in red called out, hoping she would hear him. As he entered the room, Mario was greeted with debris scattered everywhere and no sign of Bowser in his cage. In fact, the Koopa had returned to his standard size and was currently flying away, holding his little sister in his hands. "LUIGI!" he exclaimed, seeing his sister disappear with that monster! Mario dropped to his hands and knees on the floor gruffly, feeling defeated. The man in red tried to catch my breath and figure out what to do next. He had to try and get his sister back.
 
*** A few hours later (Luigi's POV)***
 
When Luigi was slowly waking up, she could hear voices nearby. "When is she gonna wake up?" they whispered impatiently, poking the person they were referring to. "Who is she anyways?" the other said roughly, frustrated at not knowing the identity of the person in question. "I'm not sure, but it seems like Papa likes her," someone responded. Another voice added in a hushed tone, "Well, of course, he would. 'She' has a great fashion sense!"
 
She blinked her eyes a few times, trying to adjust to the dim light that surrounded her. As her vision cleared, she realized she was lying on a bed in an unfamiliar room. Her head was pounding from the impact earlier. She rubbed her head and grunted. Looking around, she saw several Koopalings gathered around her, their expressions a mixture of concern and curiosity. She couldn't remember how she ended up here or why the Koopalings were here. But one thing was sure, she needed to quickly figure out what had happened.
 
"Um, hi?" she awkwardly waved. Suddenly, the Koopalings swarmed around her, bombarding her. Some interrogating her, while others were simply fueled by curiosity. They wanted to know if she liked their Papa, what her intentions were, and whether they were going to get married. Some even asked if she was related to the princess. It was overwhelming, but she tried her best to give everyone her undivided attention. It was hard to keep up with all of them talking simultaneously, but she did her best to keep up. Then they started asking all sorts of questions. They wanted to know what her interests were, if she enjoyed skateboarding, what her thoughts were on science, and what kind of books she liked to read. They even asked about her preferred makeup brand and whether or not she liked wrestling. Finally, they asked if she enjoyed building things. It was clear that they were genuinely interested in getting to know her on a deeper level.
 
'Weird…' she thought to herself. 'There's only seven of them... where was Jr.?' Before she could ask, she heard someone speak, "Alright, kids, that's enough out of you all!" their father said, trying to restore order" But Papa! I wanted to ask her if she wanted me to paint her nails!" Wendy whined. This caused the others to complain for different reasons, as they all had their own ideas of what they wanted to do with her. "Now, Children, she just woke up. Give her some time to breathe, and then maybe later, she would like to do those things with you all," he replied, trying to be fair to everyone involved. "Now, get out and let her rest!"
 
The room cleared out as the Koopalings grumpily left, giving the King of the Koopas and Luigi a chance to talk privately. Bowser seemed a bit nervous as he rubbed his head and chuckled sheepishly. The brunette sat up straight on the bed, crossing her arms angrily. "I suppose I have some explaining to do," he said. Luigi gave him a serious look and replied, "Indeed, you do." Bowser could tell she was livid for being kidnapped and thought carefully about his next words...

Chapter Text

***Peach POV***

Peach sat in the ruins of her castle, tears streaming down her face. The destruction was complete; a nightmare came to life. She couldn't believe that this had happened to her. At least her Toads were safe, but that offered little comfort in the face of such devastation. Poor Luigi, the princess, had never imagined that her request would lead to such a terrible outcome. Her friend had been kidnapped. She couldn't blame Mario for being angry. The thought of that heartless beast taking away his sister was enough to make anyone mad.

They sat around the table, heads bent together, deep in thought. They had to come up with a plan to get her back, no matter what. After all, the princess owed her that much. As they discussed their options, she couldn't help but think of his determined face, the one she fell in love with. He looked at her and said, "I'm getting back my sister!" Those words were etched in her mind and she knew they would do whatever it takes to make it happen. They knew that they had to tread carefully because they were heading into enemy territory. It was a risky mission, but they were determined to bring Luigi back home safely. They planned their every move meticulously, making sure that they didn't leave any loose ends. The stakes were high, but they were ready to face whatever challenges came their way.

***Luigi's POV***

The next couple of days Luigi spent them getting to know the seven Koopalings better. Wendy had become incredibly close to her in that short period of time, and they spent a lot of time chatting, playing dress up. Wendy was always ready to share the latest gossip and try out new make-up looks with her. She felt a bit stir-crazy being confined to the room, but she knew she needed to recover from the bump on her head. Luigi tried to pass the time by reading, doing puzzles, and sharing with the Koopalings, but when the brunette was left alone, she couldn't help feeling lonely and isolated. She was looking forward to the day when she could go outside and feel the sun on her face again.

Luigi's mind drifted to her brother and she couldn't help but worry about his safety amidst the chaos of the explosions. She hoped he was doing alright and that he was unharmed. She knew he always worried about her well-being, so she couldn't help but feel concerned about him as well. Mario was probably terrified at the thought of her being kidnapped and was probably worried sick about her.

The young girl was remembered the stern conversation she had with the Koopa King. She made it clear that she did not appreciate being kidnapped, and now that she had been, she was feeling an overwhelming anger. To make matters worse, Bowser was looking sheepish, as if he didn't understand the severity of his children's actions or the harm they had caused. Someone could have been hurt in the mix of looking for him or worse! Despite the damage they had caused, however, she couldn’t stay mad at the children or Bowser. Luigi's affection for him remained strong, It was difficult for her to stay angry for long. Especially after giving her that pitiful, sad-eyed glance, she found herself unable to hold onto her fury and forgave him. There was nothing Luigi could have done she was unconscious when it occurred, and had no control over the situation. This made her wonder why Bowser had taken her instead of attempting to kidnap the princess. Perhaps Bowser had a change of heart, or maybe Luigi was part of a larger plan. Regardless, she needed to find a way out of the situation quickly.

She was jolted out of her thoughts when she heard the sound of the door opening. Her heart raced as she wondered who it could be. She was surprised to see Kamek walking through the door, but felt relieved to know it was someone she knew... Her old self knew who he was. The wizard came to check on the bump on her head. He asked her how she was feeling and if she had experienced any dizziness or nausea since hitting her head.

"I'm feeling a bit light headed, but I'm doing better," she replied.

Kamek than suggested that she take a few more days to rest in bed, but if she felt like exploring, to be careful when doing so. "It's important to listen to your body and not push yourself too hard, but if you feel up to it, a change of scenery might be nice. Just make sure to take it easy and prioritize your health above all else" He said kindly. She nodded, and Kamek patted her hand before turning to walk away. However, he suddenly stopped and glanced, "My lord seems to like you a lot," he said. "It's nice to know he has those feelings returned for a change." She was taken aback by his sudden claim and wondered how he knew about her feelings. As if reading her mind, he said, "I am a wizard. No lies can get past me. You two seem to have a special connection." the wizard continued walking out the door. Luigi was left there, feeling shocked and unsure of what to do next. The unexpected revelation from the Magic Koopa had caught her off guard, and she couldn't help but wonder how he had known about her feelings.

She shrugged it off, and thought it was best to leave it be. Luigi was feeling much better, so she got out of bed to search for that big oaf. Unfortunately he was nowhere to be seen. It had been two days since she had seen him last, and Luigi guessed he might have been busy with his kingly duties. Bowser had

been absent for almost four months, after all. The young girl shrugged and thought she'd probably see him later today. She decided to explore the premises, Kamek had not explicitly said she couldn't do so she began her exploration of the castle at a steady pace. However, within a couple of minutes walking down the halls the vastness of the structure made it difficult for her to locate the room she was in earlier this afternoon.

Despite taking numerous turns, she found herself unable to recall its exact location. The young brunette was in the middle of a hall, absolutely clueless as to where anything was. The corridors of the castle were overwhelming, and it seemed as though every turn led to another seemingly identical hallway. She couldn't help but feel a bit lost and disoriented.

As she wandered through the endless corridors, the brunette felt her heart sinking with every passing moment. She had been searching for a way out for what felt like hours, every door led to yet another dead end. Just as she was about to give up, she stumbled upon a room with a single piano. The structure of the room was awe-inspiring, with a gorgeous spiral black piano in the center of it. As she got closer to it, she couldn't resist running her fingers over the smooth surface. The room was silent except for the sound of the keys as she began to play. She sat down and decided to play Dandelions by Ruth B. The music filled the space, echoing off the walls and bringing a sense of calm to her troubled mind. She lost herself in the melody, forgetting everything else around her. It was as if the piano had been waiting for her all along, a place where she could finally find solace and peace.

The girl in green played the piano with passion, she felt a sense of joy enveloping her. Luigi couldn't help but feel the softness of the surface underneath her fingers. It was almost as if it was purposely inviting her to play. Every time the brunette hit a key, a tingling sensation shot through her fingertips, making her feel more connected to the music. It was a beautiful feeling, and she knew that she could spend hours playing on this magnificent instrument. It was as if the keys were made just for her fingers, the perfect fit. Little did she know that someone was watching her in amazement, taking in every single note she played. But even in their presence, she continued to play with all her heart, lost in the music.

***Bowser's POV***

Bowser breathed a sigh of relief as he left the meeting room. It had been a grueling ordeal, but he had managed to detail everything that had happened during his imprisonment by the enemy. He made his way down the hallway, his thoughts turned to his beloved Green Bean. He couldn't wait to see her and ensure she was doing well. He quickened his pace, eager to check up on her. Unexpectedly, he heard music in the opposite direction, which seemed to be coming from the piano room. 'Those kids better not be messing with my piano!' Bowser thought to himself and quickly turned directions to investigate.

As Bowser approached the door, he was about to reach for the handle when he was suddenly captivated by a beautiful melody emanating from the other side. It was hauntingly beautiful, and he couldn't help but feel a sense of awe as he listened. The music seemed to transport him to another world, a place of pure magic and wonder. He stood there for a moment, completely lost in the music before finally gathering up the courage to open the door and discover the source of the melody.  Inside the room, he saw his Green Bean playing on his grand piano, her fingers moved like if they were designed to do so across the keys as she played the enchanting tune. The Koopa couldn't take his eyes off her. It was like seeing an actual angel effortlessly playing the instrument. The way she moved her fingers across the keys was mesmerizing. Luigi was so entranced in the music that she didn't even notice him come in. He stood there in awe, taking in the beautiful melody she was creating. It was a moment he would never forget.

As the Koopa  saw her hit the last key of her enchanting music, he couldn't help but feel a sense of disappointment. He wished she didn't stop playing and hoped that she would continue to weave her magical melodies. It was as if her music had the power to transport him to another world, and he didn't want to come back to reality just yet.

"Wow...that was absolutely beautiful," he said, amazed. The music that filled the room had left him spellbound.

"Oh, my God!" she quickly stood from the seat, "You scared me!... sorry for using your piano, I just got lost on the way to my room," she shyly stuttered, her heart still racing from the unexpected encounter.

"That's ok, not many people use it other than me," he shrugged, offering her a warm smile. He was glad that someone else had been able to appreciate the beauty of his beloved instrument.

"Where'd you learn how to play?" he curiously asked.

"Since I was a kid," she replied, blushing. It had always been her passion, ever since she could remember.

"Interesting, I never pegged you for a piano player," he teased.

She raised an eyebrow, "Oh really? And what exactly did you envision me as?"

"I actually saw you as more of a skilled violinist," he chuckled. "I guess I surprise people sometimes," she chuckled, "But playing the piano has always been a big part of my life, and I couldn't imagine not doing it. It's a great way to express myself and relax after a long day."

"by the way, how you're day been?" she asked, eager to catch up with him after a few days apart. He smiled warmly and began to tell her all about his kingly duties, excited to share his experiences with her. They chatted for hours, enjoying each other's company and catching up on everything that had happened since they last saw each other.

He inquired about her day as well and received a positive response; she had a great time. She further elaborated on how his children were eager to engage in various activities with her, and she was thrilled to participate. She shared with him all the exciting games and imaginative play they engaged in together. "Oh, that sounds like a lot of fun," he replied, happy to hear that his kids enjoyed spending time with her. "Did they behave themselves?" he joked, knowing how energetic they could be. She laughed and reassured him that they were well-behaved and had a great time. It was clear that she had a special bond with his children, and he appreciated the effort she put into spending time with them.

Before they knew it, hours had passed by in the blink of an eye. The conversation flowed effortlessly between them, and they found themselves laughing and sharing stories like they had back when he was locked up. It was a rare and special connection that left them feeling grateful for the time they had spent together. Bowser realized how late it was getting and looked over at her. Luigi let out a loud yawn, and the massive Koopa suddenly scooped her up and whisked the brunette away to his room. His green angel was completely caught off guard by his swift actions, but she couldn't help feeling a bit grateful for his concern.

As he brought her into the room, he helped her down to the floor. But as soon as she tried to take a step, she slipped. He was quick to catch her, and as their eyes met, there was a spark between them. Their lips drew closer and closer together. Crimson red eyes met sapphire blue and closed in unison as their lips kissed softly. The world around them seemed to fade as their lips were pressed together. It was a moment that they would never forget and cherish. They both felt a rush of emotions and stopped, their eyes locked and dilated. They both knew they wanted more. The heat between them was palpable, and they could feel their hearts beating faster. They inclined their lips just inches apart, ready to resume the passion that had ignited between them. The anticipation was almost unbearable, but they savored the moment, knowing this was just the beginning of something special. Her thoughts of rather if Bowser liked her not vanished with that one kiss.

Lips met in a fervent embrace again, their bodies drawing closer as they shared another passionate kiss. The world around them seemed to fade away again as they lost themselves in the moment, savoring the taste and feel of each other's lips. It was a moment of pure bliss they would never forget. As they pulled away from each other, their hearts racing and their cheeks flushed, they didn't even realize they had moved to the bed. It was as if their passion had a life of its own, guiding them to where they both wanted to be. They lay there, tangled up in each other, Bowser gulped and quickly stood from the bed, both blushing and looking embarrassed, unsure of what to say next. "I ugh...." he pointed to the door and walked out through it, leaving her to her thoughts and in equal shock.

Unknown to them a very familiar wizard stood in the shadows with a smile on his face. Kamek was very happy with the results of purposely making the green one slip.

Ruth B. - Dandelions | Piano Cover with Strings (with Lyrics & PIANO SHEET)

Chapter Text

Chapter Text

***Bowser POV***

Bowser couldn't believe it when he saw the door was locked from the outside. The huge Koopa was trapped in that room with no way out. His frustration quickly turned to anger when he realized his kids had pulled another prank on him again. They knew how much he hated being locked in small spaces, yet they couldn't resist the temptation to mess with him. Bowser was livid, to say the least. It could have been worse, at least he wasn’t in a closet. Deep down, he knew that they didn't mean any harm. They were just trying to have a little fun, even if it was at his expense. Bowser hoped they would realize how dangerous their pranks could be if they weren't careful, especially if they did this kind of thing to his Green Angel. Though, he doubted they would do such a thing to her because they like her a lot.

He shrugged his shoulders, and let out a sigh as he lay on the floor. There was no point in this. Trying to knock down the door was futile and pointless and he didn't want to risk injuring himself in the process, he decided to wait patiently until someone comes and gets him out. Bowser closed his eyes and yawned, help would arrive soon. However, before he could even take a nap, the door was opened and the one he was trying so very hard to avoid  because he didn’t know how to express his feelings to her was pushed in through the door. 'just my luck…' he grumbled blushing, not that he mind her company, he just didn’t know how to act around her after the kiss is all.

***Luigi's POV***

The young brunette searched everywhere for someone, anyone she was confused as to where they could be. Luigi's confusion dissipated as Wendy came into view. With a smile on her face, she exclaimed, "Wendy! Hey!" Relieved to have found a familiar face, she added, "I was wondering where everyone was."

Wendy appeared slightly embarrassed, admitting sheepishly, "Yeah, sorry about that," while rubbing her head. The young child then grabbed Luigi's hand and said, "I know just where they are! Come on!" She finished as she pulled Luigi's hand. The young girl in green smiled at the Koopaling's enthusiasm and allowed herself to be led towards the group. She was grateful for Wendy's help.

Luigi was then lead through a hall she's never been through and both stopped at an unfamiliar door. Her heart started to race as she gazed at the door in front of her. She couldn't help but wonder what lay behind it and felt a bit apprehensive. However, she trusted Wendy and waited for her to open the door. As the Koopaling turned the knob and pushed the door open, Luigi's eyes widened in surprise at what she saw inside. Why was Bowser in their!? Luigi stumbled forward as she was pushed into the room by the Koopaling. She than quickly realized the door had been locked behind her.

"Wendy!?" she called out, but there was no answer.

Instead, a stern voice came from the other side of the door. "You two need to talk about the elephant in the room! And you are not coming out until you do!" Luigi sighed, knowing that she and Bowser needed to have thee conversation. She just wished it didn't have to be under these type of circumstances.

"Danm it Kamek, you were in on this too!?" Bowser shouted at his father figure that was on the other side of the door.

"I understand that you're upset sire, however it's important to express your feelings and listen to each other's perspectives." the magic Koopa said calmly as he held the key to the locked door.

"Yeah Papa, once you two share your feelings, we'll let you and mama Luigi out!" The girl in Green could swear she could see Wendy sticking out her tongue on the other side of the door at him. She couldn't help but mentally laugh at Wendy's childish behavior.

Bowser shouted for them to come back, but it was too late. They had already disappeared. Luigi looked at him and said, "I guess it's just you and me now..." They were stuck in that room, with no way out. The silence between them was deafening, and they both struggled to find the right words to say. Every time one of them began to speak, the other would talk at the same time, never quite finishing their sentence. It was a frustrating dance, but they were both determined to break the silence and find a way to connect.

***Mario's POV***

He was determined on saving his sister. One can only imagine the rush of adrenaline he must have been feeling, knowing that his sister was so close yet so far away. Mario was only minutes away from her location and despite the fear and uncertainty, there was a steely determination in his eyes that was willing to do whatever it took to save her from the hands of her captor. It's amazing to see his bravery, because when it comes to family, there's no limit to what we're capable of doing.

Heart pounding in his chest. The thought of what awaited him inside gave him an adrenaline rush, and he didn't want to waste a single second. He knew that time was of the essence, and he couldn't afford to slow down. So he pushed himself harder, putting all his energy into each stride, until he finally arrived at the gates of the castle. As he caught his breath, he couldn't help but feel a sense of triumph wash over him. He had made it, and nothing would stand in his way. Mario quickly defeated several guards, reached into his pocket, and pulled out a power-up. The man in red consumed it, and with renewed strength, he grabbed hold of the gate and swung it open with incredible force.

"Intruder!" Chaos erupted. Koopas, Goombas, and Shy Guys rushed to attack him. Mario found himself in a tense situation as the man in red navigated through the castle, trying to avoid their grasp. They were everywhere, but he remained calm. With the power-up, there was nothing Mario couldn't handle. As he fought through the castle, he could feel his adrenaline pumping and his focus sharpening. With every move, Mario gained more ground and soon found himself. The short man is deeply protective of his family, and he would not hesitate to take action if anyone were to harm them. If Bowser were to hurt even one hair on his sister's head, the big Koopa would face severe consequences. Let's just say that he wouldn't be on the menu, but rather, he would become the main course in a pot of turtle soup.

***Back to Luigi's POV***

"I-I don't mean to... I-I mean, I'm not ignoring..." he stuttered and hesitated while trying to find the right words. He didn't want to say the wrong thing to her. The girl in green also wanted to tell him how she felt, but words couldn't come out. She was also afraid to tell him what was on her mind. It was clear that he was struggling to express himself, and she could sense his frustration. Luigi tried to assure him that he could take all the time he needed to gather his thoughts, "Green bean, the thing is..."

"I like you Bowser..." Luigi placed her hands on her lips in shock, unable to believe she had just confessed her feelings to Bowser. She could hardly believe that she had interrupted him and actually told him how she felt. Her face was as red as a tomato and she couldn't bring herself to look at him in the eyes. It took a lot of courage for her to confess her feelings, but she was glad she did it. "I-I'm in love w-with you..." she gulped, her heart racing with both excitement and fear. Luigi had never felt this way before, but she couldn't deny the overwhelming emotions that had been building up inside of her. She hoped he felt the same way, but she couldn't be sure. All she knew was that she couldn't keep her feelings bottled up any longer. "I want you to know that I have feelings for you, but I also understand if you don't feel the same way. I don't want to make things awkward between us, and I can understand if you think the kiss was a mistake. Whatever happens, I value our friendship and I want us to be able to continue to spend time together."

"I just wanted you to know that, I understand if you still like Peach…" Luigi started to turn around not knowing why she wanted to cry, but before she could he grabbed her shoulders and kissed her passionately. His lips were warm and inviting, and she could feel his love for her in every move. She melted into his arms, forgetting all about the princess and any other distractions. It was just the two of them, lost in the moment and the passion they shared. She knew without a doubt that he was the one she wanted to be with forever.

He gazed into her sapphire eyes and whispered, "I'm in love with you too... Luigi." It was the first time he had ever called her by her true name, and she was filled with butterflies and tears of joy streamed down her face, "The way I feel with you, it's just different. I mean, I thought I had real feelings for Peach before, but now I realize that it wasn't like what I feel for you. You're my little Green Angel," he whispered softly as he tucked a strand of her hair behind her ear.

The brunette looked into his eyes, feeling the warmth of his embrace and the intensity of his gaze. They leaned in for another kiss, their lips just a breath away from each other. But before they could close the distance between them, the door suddenly swung open with a loud bang. Their heads snapped towards the sound, their hearts racing with surprise and apprehension. "Mario?" she looked at her brother in confusion, wondering when and how he got here. Bowser looked upset when he saw him, clearly disappointed that their moment had been interrupted. She couldn't help but notice the anger in Mario's eyes, and it made her uneasy. This was not going to end well, or was it?

Chapter Text

Mario was absolutely pissed. The situation had pushed him to his breaking point, and it was clear that he was beyond angry. To say that he was mad would be a huge understatement. It was clear that something needed to be done to calm him down. But how? The man in red looked like he was at the point that if you cut him, he wouldn't even bleed.

He saw the huge Koopa holding Luigi's shoulders and yelled, "Get your hands off my sister!" The anger in his voice was palpable, and Bowser softly released his grip on Luigi.

She looked at him like a deer staring at headlights, " Mario! listen..." but her brother ignored her and continued to glare at him. It was clear that he wasn't going to let his anger go so easily.

"You got some nerve breaking into my castle," The King of the Koopas said, forming his hands into fists and glaring back at Mario. His annoyance was noticeable, and The man in red could feel the Koopa's intense glare but he didn't care. He was here for Luigi, and he wasn't leaving without his sister. It was clear that Bowser was not happy with the intrusion, however that didn't stop Mario.

The atmosphere was tense as the two opponents locked eyes. Both were aware of the high stakes and refused to back down. She could feel the tension between them, and thus began their fight. The two opponents were fully focused on each other, they knew this would determine the course of everything. Bowser and Mario pushed themselves to the limits with every punch and kick, trading blows without showing any sign of weakness. Both fighters refusing to give up. Sweat poured down their faces, but neither one was willing to give in. Mario and Bowser managed to make it from the room to the hall and then to the throne room in less than a few seconds. Their fight felt like hours; it continued until Luigi had enough and shouted for them to stop.

Luigi stood there, watching the two of them fiercely battle it out, feeling a deep sense of helplessness creeping up on her. Despite her desire to intervene and put an end to the fight, she knew that it was not her place to interfere, or was it? Could she stop this? The speed and precision with which they exchanged blows were remarkable, and it was clear that only one of them would emerge victorious. As the fight continued, the girl in green hoped that she could somehow stop it before it was too late. "That's enough!" She stood in between them, angry and frustrated, trying to calm them both down and make them see reason. Placing her back against Bowser's front, she looked at her brother with concern, hoping he would listen to her plea for peace.

"Luigi! What are you doing!? this isn't your fight, get out of the way!" he ordered his sister. The man in red didn’t want his sister to get hurt in the crossfire by this monster!

The young brunette turned to Bowser and said, "please, stop this fight... I don't want anyone to get hurt." Her voice trembled as she pleaded with him to end the conflict. The huge Koopa, who had been caught up in the heat of the moment, suddenly realized the gravity of the situation and stepped back. He took a deep breath, his fists unclenching, and nodded in disgruntled agreement. The tension dissipated as the other onlookers let out a collective sigh of relief. It was a close call, but thankfully, any further disasters had been averted.

"Lu..." he said, his voice trembling with confusion. He had come to save his sister from this Koopa, hadn't he? So why was she suddenly defending him? "I came to save you... did you brainwash her!" he glared at Bowser angrily.

 Luigi quickly reassured him, "No, Mario, it's not like that. He didn't brainwash me."

"Did he hurt you, threaten you?" he asked with concern.

"No, he didn't," Luigi responded calmly. "In fact, he's been more than nice to me for these past few days." She gazed affectionately at Bowser and he reciprocating the same look.

"I would never hurt her," Bowser said with a firm tone. These words echoed in her mind as she tried to process the sincerity in his voice. It was clear to Luigi that he cared deeply for her and would do anything to protect her. she couldn't help but feel a sense of comfort knowing that she was in good hands. The trust and respect between them was evident, and it was clear that their love was true. The young brunette couldn't help but smile as she thought about how lucky she was to have someone like him in her life.

"Says the one who almost destroyed the princess's castle," Mario retorted angrily.

"That wasn't me," The huge Koopa argued back, his voice laced with boredom.

"Sure you didn't," Mario said, rolling his eyes.

"I mean, how could I have done it if I was locked up?"  the King of the Koopas responded smugly.

Grinding his teeth, Mario raised his sleeves and walked towards Bowser, ready to start round two of their fight,  "I don't know, you tell me." he replied.

"GIRLS! your both pretty!" Luigi stood between them again " Mario I understand that you're mad."

"Mad? Oh no, I'm not mad. What makes you say that?" he replied in a sarcastic tone. "Of course I'm mad he kidnapped you and nearly destroyed the Princess's castle!" the man in red glared at the Koopa.

"im sure we can fix this by just talking!"

"Why!? Why would you want me to talk to, this, this monster!?"

"Because, I'm in love with him and I don't think he's the same Koopa who wanted to rule the world, and he did feel kind of bad that his Koopalings almost completely destroyed the castle…" she confided to Bowser to agree with her. The Koopa sighed and shrugged in agreement, acknowledging that he didn't feel the same way he used to. Ruling the world just wasn't as interesting as it once was, and he did feel sheepish that happened, "can't we talk like civilized people and not fight... please?" she looked at her brother with pleading eyes.

Mario tried to register what his sister just said, processing her words carefully in his mind. It must have been all that time she spent with him when he was imprisoned. He couldn't believe she was in love with someone who had once wanted to rule the world . However, he trusted his sister's judgment and knew people could change. "Ugh! Wuigee of all people to fall in love with, this guy!?" Mario expressed his frustration towards his sister's love interest, feeling disappointed that it was someone who had once wanted to rule the world and he considered an arch enemy. Luigi's love interest is someone he is not particularly fond of, but even though he hates his guts he's someone important to his sister now.

He glared at the Koopa in question, hoping that his sister's judgment was not clouded by her feelings. However, he decided to support her and wished for the best outcome. Maybe this Koopa did turn over a new leaf and was no longer the monster he used to be. The man in red sighed and gave his sister a hug. with all anger dissipated, he decided to support his sister and her feelings. He just hoped that everything would work out for the best.

He glared at the huge Koopa and said, " Do you like her too, or is this one sided? Or are you just using her for some scheme of yours?"

Bowser felt a knot form in his stomach as he met Mario's intense gaze. He knew that his answer could greatly affect the situation at hand. Taking a deep breath, he responded, "I genuinely care about her and have no ulterior motives."

He glared a little longer, and then glanced at his sister, "Alright, let's talk like civilized people," Mario reluctantly agreed, his frustration still evident. "But before we proceed, there are a few conditions I need to lay out. Four, to be exact." he glared back at the Koopa again, "1- This conversations will be held in the Princess's castle 2- You will arrange the repair of any and every nook and cranny of the castle that was damaged. 3- If whatever you have with my sister is serious, you will ask our father for her hand"

"Marioo!" she said embarrassed, the man in red put his hand up silencing his sister from further speaking and closed his eyes.

Luigi looked at him with curiosity and waited for him to speak again, he opened his eyes and continued, " And last but not least, 4- Luigi will have to come back home with me. Once you make a peace treaty with the Princess and ask our father for her hand, I will consider her staying with you or visiting you."

Bowser nodded in agreement, "I accept your terms and conditions." Luigi was pleasantly surprised that he was willing to do so just to be with her.

Mario kindly allowed his Luigi to take as much time as she needed to say goodbye to the Koopalings, Kamek and Bowser. When it was the King of the Koopas turn to bid farewell, he leaned in and pressed a gentle kiss on her lips, leaving her blushing and smiling. "I'll see you soon..." he whispered, she nodded happily and turned to walk away the man in red not far behind.

*** Le-time skip (Because my mind is jumbled lol)***

It was a couple of hours since she returned back home, Mario left with a bit of hesitance to do a job he was called for, but she promised that everything would be fine and left her at home alone. Luigi was just about finished cooking the meal for the day, when she was startled by the knock at her door. The girl in green surprise quickly turned to delight when she saw Daisy standing on the other side. "Oh my goodness, Daisy, it's so good to see you!" she exclaimed. Daisy wasted no time getting to the point. "Spill all the beans, girl!" she said. Luigi smiled and sat down on the couch, ready to tell Daisy everything that had happened.

"so, did you guys have sex?" Daisy asked curiously, while biting her lips excitedly. Her heart was racing with anticipation as she eagerly waited for the answer.

"What, no..." She could feel her face turning red as she stammered out the words. "We just kissed... a lot, like four maybe five times," Luigi admitted, still feeling the heat in my cheeks.

Luigi and Daisy talked for hours, catching up on everything that had happened since they last saw each other. They laughed, shared stories. It was a wonderful evening spent with a dear friend, and Luigi felt grateful for the connection they shared. By the time Daisy left, it was late and Luigi was exhausted, but she couldn't stop smiling she laid on the couch as she thought about their conversation and fell asleep in the process.

Chapter Text

*** NO POV***

The messenger quickly dashed through the castle, his heart racing with each step as he tried to reach his destination as fast as possible. The weight of the message in his hand made anyone anxious, knowing that his master would not take the news well. the messenger couldn't predict his reaction, which only added to his nerves. But he had a job to do, and he couldn't let fear get in the way of completing it. There was a possibility he'd be murdered today.

his mind raced back to the last time he had to deliver bad news to his boss. The memory sent shivers down his spine, and he couldn't help but feel a tinge of anxiety creeping up his chest again. He took a deep breath and tried to shake off the feeling, but the memory lingered, haunting him like a ghost from the past. However, he knew he had to deliver the news, and that's what scared him. The young messenger rushed through the halls of the floor, in a hurry to deliver their message.

"Sire! Sire!" exclaimed the messenger, breathless from running.

Sitting atop his throne, the mysterious being's fingers drummed out a rhythm atop the chairs arm, with minor interest on a book he was reading in his hands, the dark hooded figure glared at it and threw it to the ground. The mysterious being looked irritated at his minion. However, his interest was piqued. "This must be something important for you to be bothering me,"

The messenger then reported almost out of breath, "My spies have returned with some news, it seems that the Darklands and the Mushroom Kingdom are planning a treaty, gods only know if they plan an alliance next!"

The being's expression turned angry as he asked, "How is that possible!? This is ill news." a low growl slipping from his mouth. His master's impatience levels running high.

"It seems like the Koopa King fancies a girl from the Mushroom Kingdom, and she fancies him back, sire..." replied the messenger.

"A girl you say? And who is this girl you speak of?" the being inquired with interest.

"Her name is Luigi, and the King is head over heels for her," the messenger answered, showing his master a picture of her. He examined the picture closely, intrigued by the girl, he could see why she had captured the King of the Koopas heart, she was quite the looker. In fact, his heart if he had one skipped a beat when he first laid eyes the picture. Despite his efforts to suppress it, a feeling of ownership over the girl crept up. He couldn't shake off the instinctual thought that the girl in the picture was meant for him and him alone, It didn't matter to him whether she was aware of it or liked it or not. He didn't care. He wanted to make her his, period. He tried to dismiss it, but the sense of possessiveness lingered in the back of his mind. The words 'mine!' came to mind.

"she's the reason for the treaty, master." the messenger continued.

He tisked, "Well then... let's make sure this treaty doesn't happen, shall we..."

"What will you have us do, my lord?" he asked.

"I haven't finalized my decision yet, but I have an idea of where to start..." he replied with an evil grin plastered on his face as he stared at the picture. Such a look could make anyone uneasy. It clearly showed he was up to no good…

***Luigi's POV***

"AACHHOO!" Luigi sneezed and shivered, making the young girl jump with a start. Despite feeling a bit spooked, she simply shrugged it off and continued cooking as if nothing had happened. As she glanced at the clock, she realized that she needed to finish cooking dinner soon. Her brother would be arriving home from work any minute and she wanted to make sure the food was piping hot and ready to eat by the time he got there. She quickly checked on the stove and stirred the simmering pot before turning her attention back to the vegetables she was chopping.

With a deep breath, she focused on the task at hand, determined to have everything done on time. She wanted to make sure she included all of his favorite dishes, knowing how much he missed her when she was away. She carefully crafted a menu that included all of her brother's favorite pasta dishes, making sure to omit any mushrooms as she knew he despised them. As she cooked, she couldn't help but smile at the thought of her brother's joy when he tasted her food.

"Luigi..." a voice whispered. Startled, Luigi grabbed her chest and turned around.

"Aahh!! Bowser!?, you scared me! Please don't do that," she said, trying to catch her breath.

"Hehe sorry," Bowser tried not to laugh.

"You're not supposed to be here!" Luigi whispered to him, looking around cautiously. " How did you get in here anyway?" the brunette asked.

"Kamek" he stated as if it was obvious.

"Why here though? My brother could come back from work any second!" she whisper yelled. He could sense the urgency in her voice and understood her concerns.

"I wanted to see you," the Koopa replied, feeling a little nervous. Luigi hoped no one would catch them. He grabbed her waist and pulled her closer, and pressed his lips to hers. They gazed into each other's eyes for a brief moment, their expressions conveying a depth of emotion that words could never fully capture. It was as if time stood still in that moment, and nothing else in the world mattered except the connection they shared. they closed their eyes and locked lips, the world around them seemed to fade away. The warmth of their embrace, the taste of their lips, and the gentle touch of their hands were all that mattered in that moment. Their kiss was bliss yet again, and they knew that they were meant to be together at this moment. It was a feeling that they never wanted to let go of, and they held onto each other tightly as the world spun around them. For in that moment, nothing else mattered except the love that they shared.

Their lips parted with a loud gasp, as they both caught their breath. They looked at each other, their eyes filled with desire.

"Luigi... I came here wanting to ask you something," Bowser said nervously.

"What is it?" the young girl in green asked with a smile.

"I mean, I was going to talk to your dad about dating you, but then I realized that you deserve more than just that," he explained, his words tumbling out in a rush. "So, I took some time to think about it, and I wanted to ask you first before I talked to him. And now, here I am, asking you..." he got down on one knee in front of her. "L-Luigi..."  she gasped as he gulped and took a deep breath, "W-Will you marry me?" The King of the Koopas asked, his voice shaking with nerves.

Luigi's eyes widened with surprise, and her hand flew to her mouth. "oh my God Bowser...Yes, yes Of course, I will!" she exclaimed, throwing her arms around him in a tight embrace.

Bowser out of happiness covered her face with kisses of joy, expressing his love and adoration for her in the most affectionate way possible. She giggled and blushed, feeling grateful to have someone so loving and caring in her life. It was a moment they both would cherish forever.

" Luigi, I'm home!" came a voice at the door.

"Hide!" She exclaimed, feeling a sudden rush of panic.

"Hide? Hide where?" he asked, understanding the situation.

"I don't know! Somewhere my brother won't see you!" Luigi replied, her voice trembling.

"I can't hide anywhere here, I'm too big!" Bowser replied franticly.

"Then go somewhere you can, he can't see you!" the girl in green urged, her eyes darting around the room. With a nod,  he quickly scanned the area and found a spot the door to the pantry. The huge Koopa carefully made his way there, making sure not to draw any attention to himself. Luckily it was big enough for him to hide in.

"Luigi, sweety are you in the kitchen?" her mother asked from the door as well. She saw her walking inside the kitchen 'she didn't notice him... good' she thought and sighed with relief.

"Ma!? what are you doing here!?" she asked in surprise as she saw her mother standing in the kitchen. Luigi tried to play it cool, but she couldn't help feeling a bit anxious. She glanced at the pantry door where Bowser was hiding, hoping none of them would open the door and see him, and quickly glanced at her mother.

"Well, me and your father wanted to see you," her mom replied, giving her a hug, "We heard you got kidnapped and we were worried, so the whole family decided to come along and here we are."

"So... Grandpa and the others are here too?" the brunette asked, disgruntled.

"Yes, sweety. So, you're going to have to cook a lot more than this. Here, let me help," replied the mother. She gave her a kiss and pulled up her sleeves and put a apron, ready to assist in the cooking preparations.

"Great..." Luigi sweat dropped.

"Is everything okay, dear?" the mother asked, noticing her daughter's forced smile.

"Don't worry, we'll make sure everything is taken care of and Bowser won't get in trouble for hiding in the pantry, I won't tell them he's there. Let's focus on getting this meal ready for everyone."

"How did you...?" she asked, her voice filled with both curiosity and shock.

"A mother knows, that, and I saw him..." she replied with a playful smile.

"Ah... I see..." the young girl facepalmed.

"But you'll have to explain everything to me... And I mean everything." she whispered happily and winked.

Well, this was going to be an interesting conversation Luigi was going to have with her mother. The girl in green knew she had to approach the topic delicately, but the brunette also knew it was important to address. She took a deep breath and prepared herself to spill everything to her mother.

Chapter Text

***NO POV***

He had a wicked grin on his face, and he was convinced that his plan was perfect.  He was sure that nothing could go wrong, and he felt confident he would achieve his goals.  If one knew him, they would say he was up to something.  He wore a disguise that made it difficult to recognize him, but one could sense that he was focused on a specific girl he had seen in the picture recently.  He was standing on the outskirts of the kingdom's market, scanning the crowds for any sign of her.  No one could quite tell what his intentions were, but it definitely had to do something with her.

He watched as she picked the fruit, carefully inspecting it to ensure there were no bruises.  She was even more beautiful in person than he had imagined.  As she walked towards him, he couldn't help but feel a flutter in his chest.  Suddenly, he "accidentally" bumped into her and couldn't help but grin at the perfect encounter.

"I am so sorry I wasn't seeing where I was going." They said simultaneously.

"Are you alright?" the taller stranger said as he helped her up from the ground.

"yes, thank you so," she said, dusting off her clothes and picking up the scattered fruit. "I'm fine, just a little clumsy. I appreciate your help." Luigi said as started picking up the fallen fruits she had bought.

"I'm quite clumsy myself if you ask me,"  he replied and they both chuckled. He watched the scattered ingredients across the floor. The Stranger offered to help Luigi pick everything up. "Here, let me help you pick those up," he kindly offered, and she gratefully accepted.

"Thank you, the names Luigi," she offered her hand.

"Luigi..." her name sounded so perfect to his lips. He thought for a second of what name to give her. He didn't want her to know his real one just yet, so he decided to use his old one and smiled, "Blumiere..." He shook her hand.

As the brunette heard the name, a strange feeling washed over her. It sounded so familiar, but she couldn't quite place it. She wracked her brain, trying to recall where she could have possibly heard it before. Perhaps it was in a book she read or a movie she watched? Luigi couldn't be sure, but the name seemed to hold some significance. She made a mental note to do some digging and try to figure out why that name rings a bell.

"Well it was nice meeting you Blumiere, but I have to go," she said with a smile. He bowed elegantly in response and replied, "Likewise Lady Luigi, it was a pleasure meeting you. Hopefully, we'll see each other again soon."

Blumiere began to walk the opposite direction, she couldn't help but feel uneasy. She tried to shake off the feeling, but it lingered in the back of her mind. She couldn't quite put her finger on why she felt this way, but her instincts were telling her something was off.  "Blumiere...?" she thought out loud, Luigi shrugged it off, quickened her pace and made her way home, hoping to leave the unease behind. From the distance, he watched her leave, with a grin plastered on his face. He couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction as he saw her walk away. As he turned to walk away, he couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement for what the future held.

***Luigi's POV***

When she arrived home, Luigi quickly put away her coat and headed to the kitchen. She saw her mother, fiancé, and her brother all gathered around the counter. Mario was peeling potatoes with a pout, glaring Bowser and vice versa.

"Hey ma, got the apples you needed for the pie."  the brunette called out to her mother, who was busy chopping other vegetables at the counter. Mama Mario turned to Luigi with a smile and thanked her for picking them up. As she sat on the counter, Luigi could sense the tension between them but decided to keep quiet and focus on helping with dinner preparations. After all, family gatherings should be filled with love and harmony, not arguments.

"It's about time you showed up!" her fiancé grinned from ear to ear, and she smiled back. Luigi couldn't help but smile at the sight of him peeling potatoes with his tongue out and a curious expression on his face. Bowser looked absolutely adorable! It's moments like these that make me appreciate the little things in life.

"yeah, sorry I just bumped into this weird guy on my way out of the market." She couldn't help but feel relieved that she had finally made it to her house. It was a strange encounter, but she shrugged it off and focused on enjoying the rest of the evening with her beloved family and fiancé.

 They both stopped peeling the vegetable and replied at the same time, "weird? " "Weird how?" It was clear that they were both confused about what had just been said, but they were eager to know more. Mario and Bowser glared at each other.

"I mean, it was just a little strange. We exchanged pleasantries, he helped me gather the fruit that had fallen, and then we said our goodbyes. But I couldn't shake the feeling that there was something off about him." She shrugged, unsure if her intuition was correct.

"Did you get a name?" the huge Koopa asked.

"Blumiere..." she replied thoughtfully.

"Hmm... that name sounds like someone my father would have known," he mused, placing his hands on his chin, deep in thought.

Mama Mario reassured them that it was probably nothing and they continued with the preparations for dinner. Despite her concern, Luigi trusted her mother's words and tried to focus on enjoying the evening ahead. after all this was a big night for her and Bowser. Luigi just hoped nothing would go wrong tonight or the day of the treaty…

***Count Bleck's POV***

He sat on his throne, thoughts going his head 'Luigi' her name popped up on his head, she had looked more stunning in person, he couldn't help but feel a sense of possessiveness creep over him. She was more beautiful than he had ever imagined,  She looked so familiar, almost like someone he had known before. It wasn't until later that he realized she looked similar to his first love, Timpani... The same soft features, the same gentle smile that could light up a room. It was both comforting and unsettling at the same time, but he couldn't deny the pull he felt towards her. Perhaps fate had brought her back to him in a different form, and he wasn't going to let her slip away again. He found himself wanting to keep her all to himself. A sly grin spread across his face as he contemplated the possibilities of how to make her his.

"Nastasia!" he called out, summoning his loyal right-hand woman. He knew that the task at hand required someone with her skill and dedication, and he trusted her implicitly to get the job done. After all, she had never let him down before. With Nastasia on the case, he could rest assured that the girl in green would be in his possession soon enough.

Nastasia bowed respectfully and replied, "You called for me sire?"

Count Bleck's expression was ominous as he grinned wickedly, causing her to reciprocate the grin, " I have a job for you..."

"What shall you have me do, my lord?" she asked, waiting for his command.

Chapter Text

Luigi was beyond nervous - she was in a state of panic. All she wanted was for this day to be perfect, and to end that way. She meticulously set the table with gleaming silverware and plates, while Mama Marion put the final touches on the delectable desserts. A ring on the doorbell was heard and she sprang into action, determined to answer it promptly. "I'll get it!" she declared, eagerly making her way to the door.

when the green Heroin opened the door, she was greeted by the sight of Peach and Daisy, both standing at the entrance. "You're both early," she remarked, a hint of surprise in her voice.

Daisy responded with enthusiasm, "I wouldn't miss this for the world. I mean, seeing you and Bowser getting all sweaty and nervous is just priceless. Besides, as the maid of honor, I have to be present for events like this to support the future bride."

Peach, who seemed a bit taken aback, asked playfully, "Since when were you the maid of honor?"

Daisy, with a matter-of-fact tone, replied, "Uh, since like today!"

Luigi couldn't contain his laughter and said, " come on, mom, Mario and Bowser are in the kitchen" Luigi made her way towards the kitchen, and both Peach and Daisy followed closely behind her. Once they arrived, they looked around the room, taking in the sights and smells of the space. They caught sight of Mario's face contorted in frustration at the sight of Bowser's frosting mishap, they burst into a fit of uncontrollable giggles.

Mama Mario greeted Peach and Daisy with a warm smile as they entered the kitchen. She then spread out more bowls of frosting, ready to go on the kitchen table, "Hey girls! The boys are helping me put frosting on the cakes. Since you both are early, would you like to lend a hand?" Peach and Daisy were delighted to do something they wouldn't usually do and eagerly joined in to help Mama Mario and the boys in frosting the cakes.

Later, the kitchen ended up a total mess. A heated frosting battle between a red hero and a certain Koopa, the once pristine kitchen lay in shambles. The countertops were smothered in frosting, the floors were littered with cake crumbs, and the walls were splattered with icing. It was evident that the battle had been a fierce one, leaving behind a chaotic and sugary mess. Fortunately, Mama Mario's delectable cakes remained unscathed despite the heated competition of who could throw more frosting at the other. She didn't mind the "playful rivalry", as it added to the jovial atmosphere of the occasion.

After wiping themselves clean of the sugary mess, the group enthusiastically pitched in to assist Luigi and Mama Mario with setting the table. The tantalizing aroma of delicious food filled the air, as they carefully arranged each dish and finished placing the utensil in its proper place.

Dinner came and Luigi and Bowser are both feeling the weight of the situation as they prepare for a crucial night. Bowser's goal was to stay calm and levelheaded, he wanted to get Papa Mario blessing, but they know it won't be an easy thing to do. The King's past actions have left a negative impression, and he will need to work hard to prove that he has changed. With their nerves running high, Luigi and Bowser will need to remain focused and show that they are capable of making a positive impact. It won't be an easy task, but with determination and a little luck, they just might succeed.

Here they were sitting down at the table with all the Mario's staring or glaring at the Koopa King, and some trying to enjoy the food. It was a tense moment, and Luigi could feel the pressure mounting. Bowser looked nervous but determined, and Luigi knew that her fiancé was ready to do whatever it takes to make things right. They both knew that this was their chance to prove themselves and show that this could work. With a deep breath, Luigi tried to calm her nerves and focus on the task at hand. She knew that they had a long way to go, but she was confident that they could make it happen.

In that moment, Bowser's heart raced as he prepared to speak. He knew that this was a critical moment that could change the course of his life forever. But before he could even begin, he was interrupted by Papa Mario, who was busy cutting his steak. With a casual tone, Papa Mario said, " So... I heard you wanted to marry my daughter"

The weight of the moment was tangible...

Bowser's heart skipped a beat. He knew that this moment was critical, and he had to be careful with his words. The King knew that he had to be honest and true to himself. "Yes, sir," he replied, trying to sound confident. "I'm in love Luigi, and I want to spend the rest of my life making her happy." He hoped that his love for Luigi would be enough to convince Papa Mario to give his blessing.

Papa Mario looked up from his plate and stared at Bowser for a few seconds before speaking again. "And what makes you think that you're worthy of her love?" he said, his tone firm but not hostile.

The King of the Koopas took a deep breath and tried to choose his words carefully. "I know that I've made mistakes in the past, sir," he said. "But I've changed. I'm no longer the villain that I used to be. I want to prove to you and your family that I can be a good husband to Luigi, and a loyal member of your family." Luigi watched the exchange with bated breath, hoping that his fiancé's words would be enough to convince Papa Mario. The room was quiet, and she could feel the tension building once again.

The huge Koopa's composure was put to the test when Mario snorted in response to his words. It was clear that Mario was looking for a fight and was determined not to appear weak in front of his father. Despite this, Bowser remained calm and collected, showing his respect for Luigi and his desire to make a good impression on the family.

Papa Mario's sigh was heavy with disappointment. "Six months…" he stated sternly.

Bowser was immediately dumfounded and asked, "What?"

"You will be marrying my daughter in six months," Papa Mario answered firmly. "But that's just the beginning. You must spend the following three months proving to me that you have truly changed by earning my blessing. If you fail to do so within those three months, the wedding will be called off." he pointed at Bowser with a fork full of steak. His words were spoken with conviction, leaving no room for argument. Bowser knew that he had to prove himself, not just for the wedding, but for the sake of his own personal growth.

"Dad, are you really considering this? Have you forgotten what Bowser did?" Mario protested.

His father's expression turned serious. "I remember, Mario," he replied. "But forgiveness and second chances are important values to me. Bowser has shown genuine remorse for his past actions and is willing to make amends. It's up to him to prove himself worthy of our trust and acceptance as a family. And, I don't want to incur your mother's wrath," he shuddered.

Luigi was so happy that she jumped for joy and hugged her father, saying "Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you, Dad!" Papa Mario laughed at his daughter's reaction.

Both Bowser and him shook hands, "If you hurt her, I'll make sure Mario kicks your ass for me." Papa Mario warned.

"I won't I promise" the Koopa King replied.

Luigi's father smiled and nodded, "I'm trusting you not to, Bowser. Just take care of her." he said sincerely. Luigi hugged her father again, still beaming with joy.

The green heroin was surrounded by all the girls, including Mama Mario, she was led to another room where their laughter echoed through the halls. Meanwhile, Bowser was left with the men, his forehead beaded with sweat, dreading the awkward moment that lay ahead. It was clear that the girls were bonding and having a great time talking about the wedding ahead.

"This wedding is going to be absolutely stunning," exclaimed Mama Mario, brimming with excitement. "We have six whole months to plan every detail and make it a day to remember. Just imagine how stunning you'll look in a beautiful wedding dress," as she pulled Luigi in for a warm embrace.

"And it's going to be fab!" Daisy shouted side hugging Luigi, " let's not forget about the bachelor party, it's going to be absolutely unforgettable" she whispered with a playful sparkle in her eye.

"I actually don't think I want one of those" she responded honestly and straightforward, but with a hint of hesitation in her voice.

Daisy, on the other hand, was determined to change her mind, "Oh, come on" she pleaded. "It'll be fun, I promise. It's going to be a no-nonsense bachelor party, I swear" She raised her hands in an attempt to ease her friend's worries, "I mean, maybe a couple of drinks here and there, but that's it"

"Just a curious question" Peach interjected "what did you see in him?" the question caught Luigi off guard. She wasn't quite sure whether her inquiry was motivated by curiosity or disgust. As she tried to read her expression, she couldn't help but notice how well Peach was concealing her true emotions.

Despite his confusion, Luigi remained composed and attempted to answer her question to the best of his ability "Well, when you get to know him as an individual, he's actually a really sweet guy who likes to act cool. Sure, he may have gone about things the wrong way, but he's a really sweet Koopa. I know first impressions are important, but one should never judge a book by its cover."

Luigi's mother spoke in a calming tone, trying to ease the unknown tension. "Now, now," she said, "does that really matter? It's in the past, after all." She paused, studying the faces of those around her before continuing. "I can see he's in love with my daughter just as much as she is with him," she concluded, her voice warm and reassuring.

***Bowser POV***

On the other side of the room, Bowser and the others stood in a tense silence. Suddenly, Bowser let out a thunderous sneeze, causing everyone to jump in fright. Papa Mario clutched his chest as if he had just experienced a heart attack, while Mario's two uncles cowered behind the sofa, brandishing tongs and a spatula as makeshift weapons. Mario himself assumed a defensive stance, ready for whatever danger might come next. Bowser looked at the group with an embarrassed expression and muttered, "Sorry?" His apology immediately diffused the tension in the room, and everyone breathed a sigh of relief. Someone must have been talking about him he guessed and shrugged.

***Other POV***

As the spy watched from a distance, he couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. The group's chatter and interactions seemed to suggest that things were going well. The spy knew that his master would be furious when he hear of this bad news. The spy had hoped that the girl's father would refuse their request of giving them a blessing, but instead, the father had given the Koopa three months to prove himself worthy of a blessing. And, three more months for them to wed should the Koopa receive such blessings,  "Lord Bleck will not be pleased with this news," the minion muttered under their breath before disappearing into the shadows.

Chapter Text

Luigi paced restlessly across her room, her eyes darting around as she tried to gather her thoughts. Meanwhile, Daisy rummaged through her wardrobe, pulling out one dress after another, searching for the perfect outfit. It was a momentous occasion - her very first official date - and she wanted everything to be just right. As she waited, her heart raced with anticipation and excitement, wondering what the night might hold.

Daisy eagerly held out a beautiful pink sunflower dress, "what about this one? This one looks absolutely gorgeous". Daisy showed her a lovely pink sunflower dress.

Luigi shook her head, "As much as I admire the dress, I don't think pink suits me," she said with a nervous smile.

The sun-kissed princess scowled slightly, her brows furrowed as she scanned through the racks of dresses, determined to find the perfect one for her friend. Suddenly, she stopped and plucked out a stunning navy blue knee-length dress with delicate lace detailing. Holding it up, she turned to her friend and asked, "What about this one?"

The green heroin's frustration was evident as she responded, "I don't know, Daisy. I'm at my wit's end trying to figure out who our chaperone is going to be for today's date! My dad insisted that we need one until our wedding day, and I haven't been able to find out who that will be. And to make matters worse, what if it's my brother? Don't get me wrong, I love him to bits, but he's so strict. He won't even let us hold hands or kiss, and I don't know how we'll be able to enjoy our day with him hovering over us." As she spoke, Luigi raised her hands in frustration, her eyes pleading with Daisy for a solution.

Daisy flashed a sly grin and tilted her head slightly, her eyes glinting with mischief. "Oh, Lu," she said, her voice dripping with playful sarcasm. "You really think I'd let you go on this adventure without a little surprise up my sleeve?"

Luigi narrowed her eyes, suspicion etched into her expression. "You know something, don't you?" she asked, her tone equal parts curiosity and caution. "About who my chaperone is?"

Daisy flashed a mischievous grin as she lifted her gaze from her perfectly manicured nails. With a coy tone, she responded, "Me? Oh! I definitely know who it is"

She made her way towards the princess, her footsteps echoed softly on the marble floor. She approached the bed and gracefully took a seat in front of the princess. Looking up at her with inquisitive eyes, she asked, "Who is it?" Her voice was gentle, yet filled with curiosity.

"I was able to convince your father that Mario may not be the best chaperone for you. I suggested that having a female chaperone would make things less tense for both you and Bowser. Your father agreed to this suggestion. There were a few complaints here and there, but your father agreed to let me be your chaperone! " They both shouted excitedly and hugged it out.

Luigi was curious and asked, "How did you manage to convince my dad? He's notoriously stubborn."

Daisy replied with a smirk, "Well, it's one of the perks of being a princess. Speaking of princesses, are you excited about becoming the future queen of the Koopas?"

As the realization dawned on her, she exclaimed in surprise, "…Holy shit!"

The princess nodded with a smile and commented, "shocking isn't it?"

She looked worried and anxious as she spoke, "I-I mean, I don't even have the faintest idea about how to be a queen! It's all so overwhelming."

Daisy placed a comforting hand on my shoulder and looked into my eyes. "Relax," she said in a soothing voice, "I'm sure you'll be fine." Her words of reassurance were like a balm to Luigi's anxious mind, and she felt a wave of relief wash over her.

"Hey, there's something else I wanted to share with you. I have some other good news!" she exclaimed, eager to lift her friend's spirits. Sensing her friend's worries, she quickly changed the topic so as not to add to her burden.

Luigi's facial expression contorted into a sour look as she spoke, "What?" Her tone conveyed confusion and frustration, as if she was completely thrown off guard by the situation.

The tanned princess beamed with excitement as she spoke, her voice laced with anticipation. "This is not just an ordinary date, my dear friend" she exclaimed. "You are in for a treat because you will be staying at one of my exquisite hotels for an entire week!" Her words were met with a gasp of surprise and delight from her companion.

"I can't believe this! You're amazing Daisy, thank you so much!" She threw her arms around her friend in a tight hug, feeling overwhelmed by the kindness.

Daisy smiled warmly at Luigi and affectionately patted her head. "No problem, toots. Let's start by getting you dressed and packing your bags for the trip." With that, the sun-kissed princess handed Luigi a navy blue dress and began packing her friend's bag with meticulous care, making sure everything was in place for their long weekend. Once they finished, the princess did the final touches on the brunette's hair and some makeup as per Luigi's request, and they both headed downstairs.

***Bowser POV***

The King was experiencing an unusual level of nervousness over something that appeared to be quite simple, it was just a trip. Bowser was known for his fearless and commanding demeanor. However, when it came to Luigi, he was transformed into a mushy and vulnerable version of himself. She was his Kryptonite, like in the Superman movie she had once shown him. Funny how she liked wearing green too. A warm smile spread across his face as he reminisced about the time they watched the movie together. During the screening, they playfully engaged in a popcorn fight, which only added to their connection. As the movie progressed, they found themselves gazing into each other's eyes, feeling drawn towards each other. Their lips were just about to meet when their moment was rudely interrupted by Mario, who barged in and disrupted the romantic atmosphere.

Bowser experienced a wave of relief when he found out that Mario wasn't going to be their chaperone. He knew all too well that if Mario was assigned to the task, it would have been a complete disaster. The thought of having the red hero as their chaperone made the Koopa King anxious as he knew it could ruin everything even the chance for his blessing.  It was apparent Bowser didn't know Daisy, and he was not entirely pleased to learn that the young princess of Sarasaland was the one tasked with "babysitting". He believes that her thought process may be similar to Mario's. Bowser had his doubts about her, given her close association with Mario, his arch-nemesis. However, he held onto the advice Luigi gave him to not judge a book by its cover and decided to wait and see how things turned out. He decided to take a wait-and-see approach. Bowser was a huge Koopa, with a fearsome reputation for his fiery temper and fierce fighting skills. Despite his imposing size, he knew that sometimes the smallest person could have the biggest impact, and he was curious to see how Daisy would handle the task at hand.

As he stood in the spacious living room, a sense of uncertainty gnawed at his mind. The King was torn between waiting for the girls or stepping outside. Bowser, the burly creature, grew increasingly agitated with Mario's fierce glare, his large frame tensed up. Meanwhile, Peach's conflicting stare only added to the already tense atmosphere, making it difficult for Bowser to decide what to do next. Mama Mario, who was sitting on the sofa, noticed the growing tension and tried to defuse the situation. She patted Bowser's hand in comfort, then cleared her throat and glared at her son and the princess, to calm them down. The Koopa hid a smirk, enjoying the mini-drama unfolding before him.

The sound of footsteps echoed through the stairwell, Bowser's heart pounded with excitement. He quickly stood up, eagerly anticipating the arrival of his beloved. As he caught a glimpse of Luigi descending the staircase, his breath caught in his throat. She looked stunning in a navy blue dress that complemented her pale complexion perfectly, and her hair was styled into an elegant chignon bun. Though her makeup was minimal, her sapphire eyes sparkled brightly, illuminating the room like Fourth of July fireworks. Bowser couldn't help but feel like he was falling in love with her all over again.

Mario couldn't help but notice how stunning she looked. His little sister usually dressed in tomboyish clothes, so this was a pleasant surprise. Her beauty was undeniable, and he felt a protective instinct rise within him. He was ready to break the face of anyone who dared to break her heart, that included a certain King of the Koopas if he ever did. The man in red complimented his sister with an affectionate smile, "you uh, you look beautiful sis." Bowser's senses were heightened and he felt a strong sense of threat looming over him. Despite the absence of any vocal warning from Mario, Bowser knew all too well how fiercely protective he could be, especially when it came to his beloved sister.

Bowser walked towards Luigi, his heart skipped a beat. He couldn't help but feel overwhelmed by her beauty. With his hands slightly shaking, he extended his hand towards her. As she reached out to take his hand, he looked into her eyes and felt his heart fill with more love. "Green Bean, you look absolutely stunning," he said softly, his words laced with admiration and love for his fiancée. Her dress flowed gracefully around her, accentuating her curves in all the right places. Her hair was styled elegantly. The brunette gave a sweet smile, her eyes sparkling with joy and happiness. As they walked hand in hand, he couldn't help but feel grateful for having her in his life.

Luigi's mother approached her daughter, wrapping her arms around her in a hug. She then softly rested her hand on her daughter's cheek, Mama Mario gazed at her with a look of pride and admiration. "My sweet baby girl," she said, "You look absolutely stunning in that dress. The way it complements your natural beauty is simply breathtaking. You should wear dresses like this more often as they bring out a feminine charm that I rarely get to see." Mama Mario spoke in her Italian accent and then gently patted Luigi's blushing cheek, showering her with love and affection that was felt deep within her heart.

Daisy's eyes were filled with excitement as she eagerly asked, "Are we all set to go now?" Her voice was tinged with optimism, she was looking forward to something like this, she also needed some vacation time.

*** 30 min later***

After a bidding farewell to their family and friends, they took their bags and set out on their week vacation to a beach house hotel located in the west of the desert kingdom. When they finally arrived, Luigi's eyes widened in amazement at the sight of the hotel. The white walls were adorned with intricate gold patterns, giving off a luxurious vibe. The turquoise floor sparkled under the bright warm sun, and the tall palm trees swayed gently in the breeze. The hotel was bustling with activity, with a variety of toads, koopas, and other creatures milling about. Although some of them were unfamiliar to her, the overall atmosphere felt welcoming and friendly. Daisy greeted the friendly receptionist with a warm smile. As she approached the counter, while Bowser and Luigi stood patiently waiting for her in the middle of the lobby. The sun-kissed princess exchanged pleasantries with the receptionist and requested her to book their rooms. Luigi scanned the huge and beautiful lobby, still taking in the elaborate decor and the soothing ambiance of the hotel.

"Wow, this place is absolutely stunning!" Luigi exclaimed with an air of amazement.

"I'm glad you like it, it is a very nice place" Bowser complimented, his tail wagging in excitement at the prospect of sharing this experience with his future wife.

Luigi nodded her head in agreement, her eyes taking in the beautiful scenery around her. "I've never seen such a lovely place before," she added, still in awe of the breathtaking view.

"And just wait till you see the Pinna Park in Delfino Island," Bowser said with a grin. "It's going to be the perfect spot for our honeymoon!" Luigi's heart raced with excitement, memories of playing Mario Sunshine in her past life flooded her mind. The mere thought of seeing the island in person made her even more thrilled. The anticipation grew stronger as she imagined all the adventures and beauty that awaited her on the island. However, her attention was completely captured by the sheer beauty of the hotel she was standing in. Every detail of the architecture and decor had her completely infatuated.

The Sarasaland princess strolled gracefully towards the couple. With a charming smile, she announced, "Here are both your keys to suite A-301," as she handed a shiny key for the luxurious hotel suite to Bowser and Luigi. "And I will be next door!" she added with a hint of mischief in her voice.

The King of the Darklands, was taken aback by her comment and asked, "Wait... you're giving us our own room!?"

"Of course!" The king looked at her with disbelief, and Daisy rolled her eyes playfully. "Look, I may be your chaperone until you two get married, but it doesn't hurt to rebel a little bit once in a while," she wiggled her brows mischievously. Both Bowser and Luigi blushed at her statement. He had to give her credit. He expected the weekend to be boring, but getting their own room was a surprise. The unexpected turn of events left him impressed with Daisy. As a result, Bowser gained a newfound respect for the sand princess.

They entered the elevator, and Luigi's heart was filled with excitement and anticipation. They had been eagerly looking forward to this trip ever since her father allowed it, and now that they were finally here, she couldn't wait to see what awaited them. The ride up was smooth and quiet, and she felt a sense of calm wash over them. As they stepped out of the elevator and walked down the hallway towards their respective room, they couldn't help but be impressed by the grandeur of the hotel. The walls were adorned with beautiful artwork and the floors were made of exquisite marble tiles. The lighting was soft and warm, creating a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.

Finally, they reached their room, and as they opened the door, they were greeted by the most stunning sight they had ever seen. The decor was tasteful and elegant, with every detail meticulously thought out. The colors were warm and inviting, and the furniture was comfortable and luxurious. But what truly took Luigi's breath away was the view outside the window. The sun was setting over the city, casting a warm glow over the skyline and bringing out the beautiful golden tones of the sand below. The sky was painted in hues of pink and orange, creating a breathtakingly beautiful sight. Luigi couldn't believe that she was lucky enough to witness such a stunning view. They settled into their room, Luigi knew that this stay was going to be unforgettable. She was surrounded by beauty and luxury, and she was determined to make the most of every moment with her fiancé.