#Heroes of the Darklands
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Fungal Pilgrim (Druid Archetype)
(art by Eugene Horyachkin on Artstation)
Ah, fungus, an often misunderstood and strangely wondrous and fascinating form of life. They can grow miles across underground with their mycelia network, yet most individuals assume that the reproductive bits that sprout up from the ground are the main body of the organism and not a fractionally small part of a bigger whole we never see.
Indeed, there is much about fungus that even in this day and age we do not know. There’s plenty of evidence that many fungi are at least somewhat aware of their environment, and many mycelia networks appear to be functionally immortal.
It’s no surprise then, that in a fantasy setting there would be those that view fungi as the ultimate life form, and seek to become more fungus-like.
As their name suggests, these fungal pilgrims are on a quest, though not one to any specific location, but they have a destination in mind: apotheosis into a fungal being. Some might be devotees of fungal deities good or evil, some may see it as a form of immortality, and some may simply think of fungus as a superior form of life. Either way, it’s not surprising that a class that has themes of transformation and becoming one with nature would have an archetype like this. However, this archetype replaces the wild shape that we are used to with a different, more permanent form of transformation.
The abilities of this archetype vary slightly based on whether they choose a bond with a companion or a domain.
If they choose domain, it must be the plant domain. Additionally, they can infuse fungal power into their summonings a few times per day. Whenever they summon a single creature, they also summon a second creature from the next highest summon list made of fungal matter, which has it’s advantages and disadvantages.
Alternatively, if they choose to take a companion, their companion slowly is infected by the transformation that these pilgrims seek, becoming a fungal creature that slowly gains the special abilities and attacks associated with such creatures like toxic blood or clouds of poisonous spores. The most powerful of these companions can even create fungal spawn from the bodies of slain foes, though these only last a few days before rotting away.
Close to the zenith of their power, these druids also transform into true fungal creatures, gaining the advantages therein.
Interested in a character other than a sorcerer or oracle that has a sort of late-game apotheosis? This archetype may be for you. The archetype makes major improvements to either summoning or the animal companion at the cost of wild shape, so either way you’ll likely want to take a more supportive role, though you yourself and your companion will prove especially tough in your own right as well.
This archetype can either be weird but otherwise just another way to seek perfection, or it might be insidious and horrifying. After all, is the character transforming into a fungus or being overwritten and replaced, and is there a difference. Also you can have a lot of fun describing their abilities, such as secondary summons tearing their way out of giant puffballs that spontaneously grow during the casting, or the foul, rotting form of your fungal companion.
The battle for the world of Makis is lost, the heroes are dead, and the planet (and all others in the same material plane) is being stripped of it’s resources and luxuries by a multiversal tyrant for their unchecked hedonism. However, hope remains in an unlikely place, for the Enclaves Below, where reclusive druids become one with the world’s mycelia network, ready for one last counterattack.
Recently, samsarans have come up missing from their communities, accompanied by a growing sense of dread among their kin. Those that suspect kidnapping are correct, for a cabal of fungal druids have been overtaken by a mutant fungal network that seeks to find a way to achieve immortality beyond even it’s perpetual existence, seeing the perpetually reincarnating souls of these beings as a possible answer.
The Millenium War left more scars on the land than just muddy battlefields and wastelands, for many weapons technological and magical were developed and deployed during that era. Now, one of those weapons, a living fungal disease, seeks to perpetuate the war, infesting fleshcrafted warbeasts and animated tanks for form an army of monsters. What’s more, some druids have begun worshipping the fungal mass, inviting it into their bodies.
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I forgot how hype the trollhunters s2 finale was aaaaahhhshshs
#s2 really best season#not that i remember a lot of s3 tbh. but s2 !!! it has everything#the darklands arc and the trauma of that#and then a hero with a thousand faces. creepslayerz. the reckless club. unbecoming. the finale. truly a peak season of toa#gonna miss anton tho :(( i think thats sorta why i fell out of love with it the first time around cuz i just couldnt get used to the new va#anton brought so much life to jim he was really the soul of this show :((#but this time at least im expecting it and im sure the new va will do an amazing job too!!
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Hi! There are role swap AUs of them already and I love them so much, so I tried making my own too! You should know that this is entirely self-indulgent like anything else I draw askdaslds
There is Mareach and Bowuigi bc yes alskdklasd and a tiny bit of one-sided Luaisy that leads to nothing because Luigi's a married man 😔
I had other drawings of them, but they're not colored yet and I wanted to share the idea already sjsjs
Here's some ideas for this AU!
-Mario's the Mushroom Kingdom Princess and his parents are the King and Queen. Luigi used to be the other princess, green princess or green princess Mario (as in, his bro Mario, not his last name Mario 😔), but he married Bowser and became the Queen of the Darklands :y Everyone in there respects and remembers his name, he's built a really good reputation for himself by simply being himself, in this house we believe in the 'Luigi is the Darklands' hero' hc too. Their aunt and uncles (and cousin) rule Sarasaland.
-(King boo's a Darklands ally but still hates Queen Luigi from that one time he wiped clean his mansion when the king kidnapped Mario. Luigi's scared of ghosts still too, but Junior always reassures him he's gonna beat them up if they try scaring his mama (I drew it actually, I'm gonna color it too!))
-When the bros were 20 Bowser at first tried kidnapping Princess Mario, and Mario was ready to beat his ass but they ended up talking about ally-making and ruling a kingdom as Bowser just got crowned king. Mario advised him to listen to his advisor and other stuff and by the time Luigi caught the koopa ship, ready to bonk Bowser in the head with his comically large hammer, the princess and king made plans of starting a treaty.
>Anyways, they met often after that when Bowser went to plan the treat with the Mario King and Queen. Luigi fell for Bowser and Bowser fell harder and Mario regretted talking to Bowser and should have instead just beat him up. He's happy for his bro though. When they married and had Junior and adopted the koopalings he decided that he was very happy that he talked to Bowser. He loves how happy Luigi is.
-Princess Mario accomplishes many things and excels at almost anything he tries, and all the toads treat him as a hero as well as a princess and all, so his dad doesn't think he's a failure, but still bothers him by urging him to get married ever since he turned thirty. He often compares him to Luigi, who got married at 23 and in the present had eight kids with his husband. Mario doesn't give a shit about marrying soon, but wished his dad would stop being annoying. His mamma is a sweetheart as always and often tells her husband to leave him alone. King Mario is stubborn as hell though (his two boys got that from him), so he doesn't.
-Peach and Daisy are cousins and they were trying to start a business together, though they weren't still sure about what (you know as Princess Peach and Daisy have many businesses together in canon aksdla), but before they could settle anything they somehow fell in the pipe and Peach landed in the Mushroom Kingdom and Daisy in the Darklands.
-Bowser still steals the Super Star, but in hopes of giving Luigi the coolest anniversary gift ever, as it's their seventh and all that. He very often gives him all sort of things, like great statues, many many dresses and all the stuff that he knows Luigi loves. Being the himbo he is, he's genuinely concerned that Luigi wouldn't like something unless it is completely new and has never been gifted to him at all. Of course, Luigi would love anything he'd give him, because Bowser's gifts are always made with love. By the end of the things, Luigi tells Bowser so and calls him an idiot affectionally, and also makes him return the Super Star. (movie-like, you know, since this is somehow a retelling alksdlasd)
-Based on what I read at discord, if you're who wrote it, pls know that i love your ideas jsjs- Bowser has set up many statues of Luigi that are of a nice stone color and has gems in its eyes to glow under the lava and the sun when it's out. Imagine that one Luigi render where he's got an arm raised and the other nicely by his side and he's smiling, that's the main statue of Queen Luigi sjjds. They contrast greatly against Bowser's, that were made to make his fierceness stand out, unlike Luigi's that highlight his kindness.
-In the piano scene, Bowser is playing and singing and Luigi's laying on his stomach over the piano's surface (no idea if that's possible but humor me alkdalsd) and listens with the most besotted expression ever, resting his face on his palms. When Kamek interrupts them Luigi's not mad or anything, but Bowser really glares at the magikoopa.
-Junior finds Daisy and brings her to the castle, in hopes that his mama and papa will help her, because they're the greatest people in the whole world and they can do anything.
-Daisy and Luigi quickly become friends, making Bowser jealous of the other human, especially because Daisy from time to time looks at Luigi as if she like-liked him. Not that he thought Luigi had eyes for anyone else beside him, but it was still annoying. And Diasy, for all she annoyed him, seemed to fully respect that Luigi was happily married.
-Daisy teases Bowser mercilessly too, at first clueless that she's supposed to be terrified and respect this guy like everyone else does (maybe Junior takes her to him first, and completely forgetting Junior's initial rambling about his family, she doesn't realize Bowser's the king, but when she meets Luigi, she sees his crown and fancy clothes and immediately knows she gotta be respectful to this guy. She doesn't know how royals are in this lava world, after all), but she keeps doing it, knowing the koopa king may look terrifying but he's mostly bark and no bite.
-DK and Mario are friends and they often meet up to beat the shit out of the other, or sparring as it's called, I think. The first time they did it, Mario got the cat power up and destroyed DK in front of the kong king and other kongs, and since then Cranky doesn't dislike Mario so much, and the others respect him greatly too.
-Mareach,,, they look at eachother and sparkles are in there too. Peach doesn't brutally throw Mario to the ground or anything, but he loses his breath anyways because of her beauty. Also, Mario's type is beautiful tall women (and tall idiot men, maybe his dad suggests DK as a husband and Mario's like ew dad, we're just friends. Or maybe... Donkareach... I like the fics that has them, but idk for this).
-Toad as a wingman, he doesn't care how obvious he is, he's gonna make Princess Mario and his new friend Peach be together, because they clearly like-like the other.
That's all I got for now askdalsd thanks if you read my ramblings, sorry if there's mistakes in writing.
I'm gonna color the stuff I got left and maybe draw more, but knowing myself I dunno if I will anytime soon 😔 Also I go back to college the next week sadly sjsjd
Got any thoughts on the AU? Tell cuz I'd love to know c:< but only if it's nice thoughts, I'm sensitive akdalsd
#super mario bros#my art#mario mario#princess peach#princess daisy#luigi#bowser#bowser jr#bowuigi#mareach#AU#roleswap au#also the Mareach preg post is gonna take me longer than expected bc I really wanna color it all alsdkasd#sorry pipol#princess Mario is the first ever he/him princess#princess Luigi was the second#princess mario and peach marry and they become queen mario and king peach idc
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Hi! Here's a interesting ask. What do you think would change if Steve and Eli had found out during season 1 about Jim and his team?
Oh, that's a curious scenario!
To start with, I think Steve and Eli would find the truth separately (because, well, season 1 Steve wasn't someone to communicate with Eli civilly), but they will find out close to each other.
Eli, I think, could easily find out during one of Jim's initial night patrols as I believe that Eli himself sneaks out a lot in search for creeps.
Steve, on the other hand, might find it out while trying to find some way to pay Jim back for his humiliation.
And I feel that Jim would have no other choice but invite both of them to his team. He is fine with Eli as they have a friendly relationship, but when it comes to Steve it's more like chosing a lesser evil.
Eli is happy to finally not be alone when it comes to believing in the supernatural (everyone called poor guy crazy for years!). I feel he would keep detailed records about every supernatural creature and probably read through the good chunk of Blinky's library. I also think that Eli might also dig some troll weapon-making crafts to arm the team later.
Steve, on the other hand, is a problematic team mate. He's jealous and confrontational, thinking that he can be a better champion than Jim and trying to prove it to everyone (that's why Draal and Vendel can barely stand him). Steve gets in trouble because of that all the time. In this AU he's also the hostage instead of Blinky during the fight with Bular. And that's when he finally realizes that Jim is actually a noble hero (as Steve is sure that Jim won't save him after all the dumb shit he has pulled). That becomes the point of change for Steve.
He tries to get better during the second half of season 1. Steve still hopes to become the school king, but it's more like he's really obsessed (and annoying) when it comes to challenges rather than being an outright ass to Eli and Jim.
When Jim is in the Darklands, Steve and Eli share with Toby the responsibility of impersonating Jim (and are horrible in that, confusing Barbara a lot). They also form a subteam to patrol Arcadia (while Claire and Toby are another one). That is where the name Creepslayerz is introduced.
When Jim leaves in the final of Trollhunters, Steve and Eli stay with Toby and Aaarrrgghh. Those two are more knowledgeable and battle-capable when it comes to dealing with supernatural during 3Below because of learning a lot about trolls and having training at Heroes Forge.
#tales of arcadia#toa trollhunters#toa wizards#toa au#what if scenario#steve palchuk#eli pepperjack#creepslayerz#ask box#text post#anon ask
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Random booigi au were Luigi doesn't end up in the darklands when him and Mario travel through the pipe. Instead he ends up in boo woods. So he wanders around terrified trying to find Mario only to run into boo after boo. And at first they find it fun scaring the shit out of this guy who's just getting more and more scared but eventually they get a little worried (king boo hasn't had to deal with the shame of loosing to these two humans before so him and his ghosts mainly just do their own thing terrifying/pranking people though he does still have his alliance with bowser) so they go to king boo concerned for the guy. King boo comes and terrifies him more but after a bit of enjoying the fear king boo too gets a little worried and does his best to calm luigi down.
The second luigi (still afraid having no idea where he fucking is) gets a shred of kindness he just breaks down and like cries about everything that happened. That he's separated from his brother this isn't his world he's freaking out and like latches onto King boo. King boo feeling weird about someone not running in fear of him for once offers to let luigi stay with him until word of his brother can be found.
Fast forward and the movie takes place but because he's trying to help luigi (and steadily getting to know the cutie) they both somehow miss the entire nonsense that goes down with the neighboring kingdoms.
Mario returns to the mushroom kingdom a hero but still missing his brother and goes on a search to find him however bowsers escape and following attacks prevent him from ever getting far in it. The boos too try looking for "luigi's mysterious brother" but never get far in their search due to other kingdoms not liking their presence. Meanwhile luigi and King Boo get closer and fall in love.
This all leads up to years later bowser (half way redeemed because he's tired alright) and peach (with mario) are headed to the boo woods to witness the royal fusion (boos combine for weddings and the resulting entity of their relationship is the one that "lives" on from that point) between king boo and his beloved only to get the shock of Mario's life to see luigi is the "beloved" and he's about to lose his brother forever unless he can stop this wedding
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Roles and Relations (Part 1: Main Characters)
Yogscast: Tales of Arcadia AU
as the title suggests gonna be talking about the roles the yogs have in the au and their relation to each other. considering these guys as the main characters for now since they have the most content I've thought of so far lmao. but for sure most of them are set as main characters in the au. expect this to be revised in the future. also enjoy the bullet-points, I do not have the energy to write short cohesive paragraphs
boba
main protagonist
first human trollhunter
currently a full-time highschool student
chased after fairytales all her life only to find out it was all real, most of those stories anyways
always fascinated by honeydew's tales and xephos's skills and strengths
littlewood
first trollhunter
died at the hands of israphel before the heroes sealed him away in the darklands
lives as a spirit inside the amulet to guide boba about what it takes to be a trollhunter
has a very strained relationship with rythian
like a son to swampy
xephos
mentor of boba
training her to wield the sword of daylight since he is a skilled "swordsman"
considered as a hero to trollkind for his battle against israphel
works as a curator in the observatory
before boba got the amulet, xephos accidently revealed his identity and how old he actually is to her when they asked where he got his naval jacket from (what a fool)
best of buds with honeydew and lalna
honeydew
mentor of boba
teaching her troll history and customs even though some of his stories are a bit too farfetched
one of the mighty heroes of trollkind for banishing israphel to the darklands
would spend a lot of his time in the deep dark looking for powerful gemstones
currently obsessed with modern human things
best of buds with xephos and lalna
lalna
technically a mentor to boba but he's more of an emotional anchor since he's more "human" than his best friends. the cultures and emotions of trolls and akiridions are drastically different from humans
mentor of nano
was an apprentice to fumblemore
has a descendent, lalnable (might change his name?)
best of buds with xephos and honeydew
struggles to keep a job down, always broke. has to rely on nano's income most of the time
finds rythian as an annoying roach
nanosounds
apprentice to lalna, learning spellcasting and artificing from him
has a twin sister, echo. nano is the older twin
manages the noodle shop in town, has tried to give lalna job opportunities there but he's at a point of being blacklisted from the establishment. both as a employee and patron
hopes no evil changeling finds her and be terminated or worse turns her in to the evil changeling cult, especially by her sister
rythian
the antagonist to our heroes
a champion to jean ("the queen") and follows her every command
skilled assassin in combat, stealth, and sorcery
has many titles some of the most notable, "slayer of trollhunters"
absolutely hates lalna and littlewood's guts
redemption arc inbound
zoeya
leader of trollmarket and protector of the heartstone
would look up to honeydew sometimes for elder troll wisdom, though it's not always the best advice
indebted to lalna for making her robotic arm, after the attack.
has been paranoid since, expecting him to show up again to finish the job.
like honeydew she's obsessed with human things, specifically their machinery, as well as akiridion technology since it's so advanced
would join in lalna and xeph's conversation about the topic whenever she wasn't too busy
#yogscast#tales of arcadia#yogscast: tales of arcadia#yogs: toa#au#bobawitch#inthelittlewood#xephos#honeydew#lalna#nanosounds#rythian#zoeya#melonm msg#long post#writing
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just an idea I’ve been workshopping since I saw the movie
luigi x reader where the reader is a goth prince/ss who took up residence in the dark lands after bowser’s defeat and despite the victorian vampire aesthetic, they’re actually really sweet and rather romantic.
OBSESSED
☆
Vampire Kisses
Summary: Due to Bowsers' defeat, someone else had to take over ruling the darklands, and the fill-in just so happened to catch Luigis eye.
Relationship: Platonic with romantic attributes
Character: Luigi
Warnings: fluff, gn reader
"Hello?"
Princess Peach knocked at the large door of the revamped castle in the dark lands, she had recently heard news of a new ruler and civilization and she wanted to give them all a nice welcome.
"Do you think they're even here?" Mario asked the princess, she sighed out, "Why wouldn't they be? We've already ran into so many of the villagers, I'm sure they wouldn't leave their people right after being pronounced the new leader."
Luigi wasn't too keen on the idea; he had an obvious hatred towards the area for obvious reasons but came anyway since he and Mario were pretty much the heroes - and plumbers - of The Mushroom Kingdom.
The door finally opened, they were all greeted by a man in a black Victorian suit, "Yes?"
"Oh, um, hi, we're here to see the ruler."
"May ask why and who you are?"
"Yes, I am Princess Peach of the Mushroom Kingdom and I wanted to come introduce myself. This is Mario and Luigi, they're some of our kingdoms bravest."
"I see, come with me."
The man led them all further into the castle, the lighting was getting darker and darker with a few candles scattered throughout the corridor. Luigi shakily looked around at his surroundings, seeing this as just another bowser situation.
Finally the man stopped at the near end of the corridor and opened the door for them all, "Lord Y/N?"
"Yes?"
"Princess Peach of Mushroom Kingdom and her," He paused, "Knights, are here to greet you."
"Let them in."
The man gave them all an approving look and moved out of the way for them to make their way in. Peach guided Mario and Luigi into the room where you slowly walked out of the shadows.
She sent a petite bow your way which you returned, "Thank you for stopping by, Princess."
"It's no trouble at all, I felt it was only right."
"And who are these people behind you? Are they really knights; shouldn't they be wearing armor?"
Peach laughed, "No, they did help us defeat bowser, our kingdom is forever grateful."
You also laughed with her, "Well I'm glad that's cleared up, I had never known of knights that wore such garments."
When you laughed Luigi caught a glimpse of you smile, it was a beautiful smile, but it was the shape of the teeth that irked him, he looked over at Mario to see if he saw the same thing.
"You're very good at flattering people." Mario stated, causing you to laugh again. "I'm Mario, it's a pleasure to me you."
You sent an approving nod his way and looked over at Luigi, "So you must be,"
"Oh, I'm Luigi." He mustered out in a shaky voice, you noticed this, it wasn't the first time something like this has happened, this is why your family has always had a door greeter or hasn't participated in certain royal occasions.
One wrong move and you're proving to people that you're a monster that should be chained and locked up away somewhere.
You pursed your lips, considering different ways to approach it, deciding to just ease the tension. You sent a big smile his way, "I come from a line of vampires, it's a blessing yet a curse."
Marios eyes widened, Peach kept a calm look on her face while giving Mario a slight nudge to act professional. Luigi surprisingly softened up, becoming enticed by your aura, he gave you a sweet smile back.
"Would you all like to sit down? I can have us some tea made; it probably was a long trip over here." You asked the each of them.
"No, it's okay, we don't want to be any trouble, we just wanted to come make sure everything was fine over here!" Peach replied, you had to admit that you were a little hurt by the subtle rejection until Luigi chimed in,
"I wouldn't mind tea, if it's not any trouble, besides we just got here, let's sit down and get to know each other."
You rang the house bell in kitchen to call up some tea, "Now we wait" you said before walking back and forwarding them to the lounge chairs near your desk.
-
"It was amazing, thank you." Peach said as you walked them out, "Thank you for coming, it really made my day." You smiled.
Mario sent a small wave goodbye and walked out with Peach; Luigi stopped before reaching outside the door.
"It was nice meeting you, I enjoyed it here."
You've never had some speak this way about you, unless it was your family, "It was nice meeting you as well, I'll expect you back, you know?"
"You can count on it."
IM BACK
the title was a little bit of false advertising so sorry, lmk if yall want a part 2!!
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I’m reminded of just how good Trollhunters was but also of how it kinda peaked in the middle of Season 3 and went rapidly downward from then on. Those pure None Shall Live Scenes, just...every time the amulet powered up...Claire’s mystery arc of discovering magic and developing her skill without getting any instruction, unlike Jim who was tutored by both his friends and his enemies and who was able to profit from centuries of knowledge and tradition...like, the way she had to go in completely blind and find out...and the way she did so well considering the circumstances... just the top tier humor, the NotEnrique and Chompsky and Goblin bits, Angor Rot and Strickler as glorious, complex and entertainingly dangerous villains... Draal... Draal... Toby and Barbara both knowing they were not the main characters yet still doing such a great job with their respective roles... and Jim being consistently conflicted about doing what was right and wondering what it meant to be a human warrior serving non-human creatures...
...and then the parents found out.
Idk that’s when it immediately turned sour for me.
Like, Barbara never really took a stance on what the discovery of the reality of trolls meant to her - it sort of remained her son’s “thing”. But what about herself? Was it cool to her? Did it spark her curiosity, her desire to explore and research - regarding new ways of medical treatment, for example? Why’d she never comment about Strickler’s ability to shapeshift...and did she like his horns in the end? Was she ever anything else than afraid and worried for the normalcy she used to know, instead of rejecting or embracing the possibilities and the wonder of the magical world?
Then Merlin appears, and it’s fine in itself that he is the character he is. He’s quirky and iconic and doesn’t have to change. But what happened to “Master Jim was correct! We are stronger together!” (quote Blinky, from when Claire opened the giant portal at the end of Season 2)? Why did Jim continue to walk alone after so many experiences that supposedly taught him the strength of community? Heck, he taught that exact principle to a desperate Nomura who had given up on someone coming for her in the Darklands!!! Yet it’s like he fails to learn the same lesson over and over...he makes the mistake of going into a life-threatening situation by himself, is then helped by his friends, everyone including himself assumes that he will natually choose better next time and then... he keeps repeating the exact same pattern endlessly as if he has amnesia. I understand that it might take a fictional hero a couple times for a certain lesson to sink in, just like it would for a real life person. But Jim never learns (not even in Wizards, not even in Rott). It gets frustrating and boring. Don’t get me wrong, I quite like Troll!Jim now, he grew on me. But it shouldn’t have been Merlin’s influence that drove Jim to become a troll “because there was no other way”, but because Jim decided for himself that this was the best way. He should have rejected Merlin’s initial suggestion, then realized he wanted it himself. Because frankly half his life and over half of his friendships were in the troll world by then, he loved their species and there were obvious advantages to fighting Gunmar as a troll - if only to truly understand their ways. But Jim’s character development kept being dictated by outside parties and therefore, got ground to a stagnating halt. He never learned to think beyond the authority of the people who made the amulet or wore it before him. He stayed dependent on all of the destiny stuff they told him instead of considering that the amulet might have been a tool of its own mind, bound to him, helping him into the freedom of making his own choices. Of course there is the aspect of only one person being able of carrying Daylight. But Jim did not have to follow the preset course that Merlin intended it for. I wish he didn’t. And that’s why, even though I’m happy that he became Troll!Jim, the ending of Season 3 just wasn’t as good as it could have been.
Jim, sweet gullible Jim who was just a little bit too receptive for random people’s guidance because he lacked a father figure, did not learn what I was led to believe was his arc over 3 whole seasons of plot, (to discern which voices to listen to and to gather confidence in his own strength while following a destiny) and since that issue was never finished nor fixed, the creators never gave him a new arc beyond the original problem, and so... that’s why Jim grew ultimately redundant. Slowly in Wizards, at lightning speed in Rott. And that’s how we ended up with a repetitive, nonsensical cycle of plot.
While Jim’s physical action potential grew consistently without his character truly evolving, Douxie on the other hand made it a point to learn how to grow personally fast.
Love him for it. Still wish he had been the main guy in Rott. Perhaps all would have been well. :) My point is, I really miss the earlier days of Trollhunters, because they really were that enjoyable and good!!!!
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Anti Magic AU
Okay, so for months I have had this idea running through my head and I have finally finished writing the first part of this au which in part has been inspired by talking with other fans. It's not written like a fanfiction exactly, more like bulletin points of ideas happening within this au, if that makes sense.
Please note that this is supposed to be a mariocest au! So, keep that in mind.
With that said here is the ideas for my Anti Magic au:
Magic is looked down and frowned upon in the Mushroom Kingdom. The only exception being power ups because these items occur and pop up naturally in the wild. It is viewed as being acceptable to use them in times of battle, but only in battle. However, even then those who are exceptional in their usage may get a bit of side eye glance or whispers about them because it's unnatural for a person to be so talented in their usage. As a result strict laws exist in their usage and cultivation.
Despite being the hero of the Mushroom Kingdom and being very well liked, some hushed underground whispers by some Toads may follow Mario behind his back about how is it possible a human not native to their world has such good control and grasp of these powers. The same scrutiny may follow Luigi, but not as intensely in this particular area as Mario, seeing as Mario is the one who has gone on the most ‘adventures.’
Due to Bowser and Koopas such as the Fire Bros ability to use fire, one of the magical abilities most looked down upon with distrust is wielding fire. And wouldn't you know it, the power up Mario most exceeds at is using the Fire Flower.
Another thing to note, one of the reasons magic is looked down upon with harsh laws surrounding its usage is also due to the animosity between the Mushroom Kingdom and the Darklands. As mentioned Bowser's ability to shoot fire from his mouth and his top ranking council of magikoopas being prime examples of the distrust of magic.
While some light magic may be acceptable such as the laws and rules that keep the universe in tact and in balance, again, unless a person is from the Star Realm (e.g. Rosalina, Star species, etc.) or a higher otherworldly authority, every kind of magic is forbidden from being used unless necessary in combat to defend the Mushroom Kingdom. And even then the only real acceptable magic to be used in these scenarios are power ups. A person who has natural magical abilities are discouraged from ever using their abilities due to magic's tricky, powerful and ever fluctuating state.
In terms of Princess Peach, while she wields some faint light and healing magic it is faint and strong enough to counter Bowser's dark magic as they are polar opposites. The Royal family line is expected to wield just enough magic to guarantee their lineage's survival and for the good of the Mushroom Kingdom as if Peach were to fall the MK could fall into havoc and disarray. As such, law decrees that the Royal family may only use their light healing magic on themselves for their own survival. The use of light and healing magic outside of this is forbidden no matter the circumstances. The safety of head of state and the royal family is top priority above all else. Because of this Peach is often counseled to stay behind where she will be safe when an attack or invasion occurs. This is why soldiers exist to to be on the front lines (Mario in particular and to an extent Luigi having unintentionally taken this role). If all else should fail, then the ruler will have no choice, but to fight and be the last line of defense.
Despite being a good fighter, caring about the safety of her people and their well being, Peach does not like having to sit back while others fight to protect her and her kingdom. But due to the council and laws of the Mushroom Kingdom being strict, unyielding and having more traditional ideaologies, she has no choice, but to head the words of her council. Despite being the ruler of the MK, Peach's words are not law and much must be debated and discussed between the royal council and herself. Thus, the council does have a lot of power and political influence.
After the events of Luigi's Mansion, both Luigi and Mario want to plant a garden of fire flowers. Luigi because he likes gardening and finds the task relaxing. Luigi has always found pleasure in the up keeping of the house, especially in times when Mario is away. It's his way of helping. In Mario's case, he finds the idea of a Fire Flower garden appealing because not only will it be beautiful, cared for his baby brother, but because this means having quick access to the power up he is most skillful at using. Mario has found he has a great affinity to fire.
After his experience at the hands of King Boo, part of the reason Mario wants the garden is to feel safer. Luigi shares the same sentiments in wanting to feel more secure. Boos and ghosts cannot be physically fought and defeated, thus, they make for a challenging foe even for a skilled fighter like Mario. Fire flowers, while they cannot really damage Boos, they can stop them for a bit. It's not much, but it's something. A Super Star, light and the poltergust are the only real things that can stop Boos and ghosts.
Unfortunately, word quickly gets around until it reaches the ears at the Castle. Royal Toad guards arrive at the bros home and they ask the brothers to accompany them back to the castle as Toad neighbors watch in hushed whispers. Luigi quickly and bravely steps up asking if this is necessary right now seeing as Mario is still recuperating from the ordeal he suffered with King Boo, however, the guards quickly state both of their presence is required without delay. No exceptions. Resting a hand on his bro's shoulder Mario reassures Luigi he is feeling fine for a simple trip to the castle. As the brothers pass by them, 2 guards flanking them in front and behind them, they can hear the Toads whisper how it's odd for someone like Mario to be so fond of fire, especially fire magic. And even how Luigi does not seem bothered by the flowers heat and magical properties as those who even just get close to the flowers feel the sting of the simple heat emanating from the flowers. Those who use the fire flower have found it taxing on the body, though the adrenaline from combat may help to wield it somewhat, the heat from the power eventually becomes too much and a person is normally only able to be use the power for short periods of time before it takes its toll.
All the while, as the bros are walked through Toad Town up to the walls of the Princess’ castle, they can't help but feel as if they were being marched in a sort of show of exhibition - this is what happens when you do something you should not. Mario and Luigi can only silently look at each other as they feel an uncomfortable tension in the air, Toad eyes all around them with even more whispers as the MK's heroes are escorted, for what and why they aren't sure, but presumably for an audience with Peach. Seeing Luigi wriggling his hands together in anxiety and his own hands balled up in fists, Mario reaches his hand out for his baby brother at his side to take. Clasping their hands together, both brothers smile warmly at each other, hands entertwined as the whispers continue more intensely as ever.
Upon arriving at the Castle, the brothers are greeted with the sight of Princess Peach sitting on her throne, high atop the stairs. At the bottom, her royal council are seated along a semi long table. The guards that had escorted the bros excuse themselves, shutting the castle doors behind them, the echo of the door closing, sounding like a loud bang as the noise reverberated the high walls and ceiling around them.
“Hello, Mario, Luigi.” Peach states, “Thank you for coming on short notice and I apologize for the inconvenience. I know Mario is still recovering from King Boo's failed revenge” states the princess cordially, nodding at Mario. Mario simply shrugs, stating it was no big deal, even though he can't help, but think neither he or Luigi really weren't given much choice. Peach quickly explains the reason they were summoned - the fire flower garden is not allowed. Luigi quickly steps forward surprised, asking why. He afterall, like Mario really enjoyed creating and tending to it. She apologizes, saying the entire garden must be destroyed. The Mushroom Kingdom has strict laws on the use of magic and power ups, she explains. Once more Peach apologizes, seeing the expression on their faces, but it is law.
At this point, one of the council members, an older Toad, a strict expression and frown on his face, states if the brothers are to live in the Mushroom Kingdom, despite their past deeds and heroics they must adhere to the kingdoms laws and learn them. Ignorance and failure to comply will not be tolerated. Luigi quickly steps forward saying they were unaware and didn't mean to cause trouble.
Seeing the way the brothers have their fingers tightly clasped together since their arrival; Adding on, the older Toad states that other laws in particular the bros should be aware of is anti incest laws. (Such relationships are heavily frowned upon, equally as taboo and illegal as back in Mario and Luigi's old home in Brooklyn). Upon, hearing this, Mario and Luigi quickly release their hands, not being able to help blushes of embarrassment darkening their faces. All Luigi can do is nervously nod, while Mario resists the urge to ball his fists in anger. Were they not even allowed any semblance of physical affection either? Mario and Luigi had always comforted each other through soft and gentle physical touches - hugs, holding hands, kisses to the cheek and temple, and most of all forehead touches.
Walking down from her throne, Peach puts a hand on both bros shoulders, much to the chargin of the council, saying that what happened is okay and not their fault. She should have explained all this to them from the start when they decided to move here from Brooklyn. Despite her kind words and reassuring smile, another council member speaks up reminding the brothers once again, that regardless, ignorance and failure to comply won't be tolerated. No one is exempt. It would do well to remember that. Bowing quickly, Luigi apologizes again and says they will remove the fire flower garden immediately. Mario stays silent all throughout, trying to keep his emotions in check. It was quite clear the position they were in as he looked straight at the strict and firm faces of the royal Toad council.
With that, Peach states this was all that needed to be discussed and walks the boys to the front doors, one hand on each of the brothers back, once more apologizing to them they had to come all the way to the castle for such an uncomfortable reason. Luigi smiles and tells her not to worry about it. He and Mario know she was unhappy with the situation as well, as another apologetic and sympathetic look crosses her face. The three say their farewells.
Once back inside the castle walls, the Toad council berate the princess for being so familiar with the two plumbers. Regardless, as their unofficial status as soldiers, she is a princess and customs must be followed. Next time, Mario and Luigi will be also be expected to learn and follow etiquette guidelines when meeting with and addressing the princess. Furthermore, the discussion of their roles in defending the MK need to be discussed and officially decided upon if they are to be so close to royal affairs. Peach can only inwardly sigh and shake her head at the strict regulations. She likes and trusted the brothers after everything that has happened since their sudden appearance in their world.
All throughout walking back to their small home, both Mario and Luigi are silent. Each processing what they were told at the summons.
With everything that has happened since their arrival in the MK it feels like the brothers had hardly time to rest. They are still getting comfortable with their names and faces being known throughout the kingdom. It seems wherever they go, looks and whispers abound ever since both accidently fell through and became seperated via the green pipe that connected this world to their old home in Brooklyn. Furthermore, after Luigi's capture by Bowser and Mario's quest to find and save him and Bowser's subsequent defeat by them using the Superstar, it wasn't long before another skirmish with the Darklands’ king and new enemies (the Boos) occurred.
Luigi can't help, but worriedly glance at his brother, who has yet to utter a single word, eyebrows narrowed. His brother tended to become silent when stressed, angered or overwhelmed. He wanted so much to hold his hand again, but refrained from doing so, the council's words still echoing in his mind, another blush threatening to cross his face. The thought of he and his big brother being something more… It was a ridiculous notion. Sure, they had always been close, even closer still after all that had happened living in the MK. And Luigi couldn't imagine not having his big brother by his side. Still, them together like that it was impossible, yet his traitorous heart beat faster at the thought.
Finally, arriving at the privacy of their home, Luigi quietly asks, ‘Mario are you okay?’ Mario who had been facing away from Luigi quickly turns, surprising Luigi with a sudden fierce hug. It only takes a second for the surprise to fade and Luigi instantly relaxes, nuzzling his face into the crook of Mario's neck, rubbing his hands up and down Mario's back in a comforting gesture.
“I don't care what those Council members said. They're not going to stop me from showing my love to you like I always have.” Heart dangerously racing once more at his big brother's words, Luigi tightens his grip on Mario. “But we'll get in trouble,” whispers Luigi. Gently pushing Luigi back to look him in the eye, hands on his shoulders, Mario speaks, “We're not doing anything wrong. We've always comforted each other this way. So, why should we stop because of some stuffy Toads and laws?” Now, moving his hands to gently rest on his brothers cheeks, Mario just as gently guides Luigi's head to his, foreheads touching, never taking his blue eyes off his baby brother's same colored eyes. “Being affectionate isn't illegal.” Luigi can't help but close his eyes and nuzzle a cheek to his brother's strong, but always so gentle and warm hands, a sigh of content at the physical contact and the pleasant warmth it always spreads throughout his being.
Opening his eyes again, Luigi can't help but want to be even closer with his brother, fully aware and conscious of how close their faces are, each word his brother had spoken, he could feel the warmth of his breaths over his own lips. However, pushing those feelings down and wishing he could stay like this for a while longer, the single focus of his big brother's loving gaze, Luigi addresses the problem at hand. “I think we still need to get rid of the fire flower garden.” With a click of his tongue, Mario finally releases his brothers face and turns around sighing. “You're right. It seems we can't avoid that,” states the older twin, running one hand through his hair.
“I'm sorry, big brother. I really wanted to do something nice for you.” Quickly turning back around, Mario grabs Luigi's hands into his own. “I know and it isn't your fault.” Both of them had really thought that the idea Luigi had come up with for a fire flower garden, a beautiful sight of this world's natural wonder and emergency supply of power ups, had been a great idea. Thinking about how it was supposed to be cared for by him and not just to bring both of them a sense of security, but especially as a way to bring his big brother comfort after his capture at the hands of King Boo, Luigi's fingers squeeze Mario's hands in another show of apology and comfort. Mario can only smile sadly. The garden Luigi had tended to really was beautiful. Almost as beautiful as the field of wild fire flowers he witnessed when he had desperately sought to rescue the person he loved the most.
Despite the bros feeling a bit down trodden at the unexpected turn of events, they know there is no other choice, but to dismantle the garden. Luigi reassures Mario to rest and that he'll be the one to get rid of the Fire Flowers. “Are you sure?” Asks the other in a quiet tone. Nodding, Luigi simply states he wants his big brother to relax and rest. Mario needs to recuperate his strength after the traumatic experience of being trapped within a frame. Not to mention being the target yet again by powerful enemies who would love nothing more than to see them both, especially Mario, out of the way. Luigi will be okay with this task. With one last look into his twin's eyes, Mario places a soft kiss to his forehead, before retiring to their shared room.
Thus, knees down in the dirt, Luigi starts to rip out each fire flower from the ground, the heat they emit, even from the stems, engulfing his hands, yet never stinging or uncomfortably hot. As the green plumber places each one in a bucket of cool water he had brought and placed next to him to sadly extinguish their bright glow and power; Luigi is all too aware of the neighbor Toads eyes on him the entire time. Their whispers back, reaching his ears.
“It seems even the kingdom's hero got lectured for planting those fire flowers.”
“Yeah, didn't they know it's not permitted?”
“It's odd both don't seem bothered or even suffer small blisters from being in contact with the flowers so much. It's not natural.”
“For being a coward, the younger brother doesn't seem to have any trepidation of using power ups either. I heard, both brothers found the prospect wielding their powers exciting.”
“Magic shouldn't come so easily. Even the royal family must practice and train from a young age to get a good grasp on its control.”
“An affinity for magic is a dangerous thing. I heard the younger brother like the older has his own affinities, but they seem more… problematic.”
With all these words, Luigi only sighs, now knowing why the neighbors had looked shocked to see him and Mario daring to cultivate these power ups. How could it be that in a lush world brimming with wondrous magic that people could only dream about back in their old world, could be talked about in such a hushed and taboo way?
With unease filling him, Luigi holds one fire flower close to his heart, part of him longing to at least be able to preserve one in secret and present it to his brother as a gift. It's what he had wanted with the garden after all - to console, to reassure, to show his love for his precious brother. The person he cared for most in the world, who deserved everything and more. But with eyes and whispers following them still, even now, Luigi knows it's a futile attempt. Word could reach back to the palace just like however it had already. It seems gestures of security and love through a simple garden would not be granted even to the supposed hailed heroes of the Mushroom Kingdoom.
So, with this au. The timeline of events up to this point are as follows:
- The Super Mario Bros Movie
- Another battle with Bowser soon following after the events of the movie.
- Mario has some skirmishes with the Boos resulting in King Boo wanting revenge on him.
- Luigi's Mansion.
- Mario and Luigi being summoned by the council and whispers of Toads throughout all this despite their heroics because of their apt usage in power ups.
I definitley, do have more ideas and do want to add a few other games following this timeline of events. Though, I need to polish these ideas and add more details.
I just really wanted to explore the potential of political drama, mistrust and fear of magic even with regards to the heroes, in this case Mario and Luigi. Plus we need more mariocest ;D Again the potential of drama and angst are too good.
Hope you guys liked this! Let me know what you think! :)
#mario franchise#mariocest#mario#luigi#princess peach#toads#bowser#king boo#boos#the super mario bros movie#luigi's mansion#fire flower#anti magic au#mario au#my writing#politics#fire bros#mushroom kingdom#magikoopa#darklands#rosalina#star realm#au#mario x luigi#luigi x mario#my au#my fanfiction
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The Nanny Named Luigi
CHAPTER I: Help Wanted
It had been four years since the last time Bowser, the King of the Koopas, Sovereign of the Shyguys, Master of the Bullet Bills, and Ruler of all the other inhabitants of the nation known as The Darklands, had last kidnapped Princess Peach, ruler of the country known as Mushroom Kingdom. Since that time both states had entered a period best described as peaceful and prosperous.
Koopa Woman: AAAAAAHHHHH!!!!!
Well mostly peaceful.
Koopa Woman: THAT'S IT, I'M LEAVING!!
Bowser: Please don't. I'll do anything!
For you see right now, the lord of the most powerful state in his world was dealing with a problem that threatened all the things that had taken him years to build up.
Koopa Woman: NO! THERE'S NOT ENOUGH GOLD IN ROCK CANDY MINES TO MAKE ME TAKE CARE OF THOSE MONSTERS FOR ONE MORE SECOND!
Bowser: THEY AREN'T MONSTERS! THEY'RE MY CHILDREN!
Koopa Woman: COULD HAVE FOOLED ME!
The problem of needing a
Koopa Woman: OH AND IN CASE IT WASN'T CLEAR! I QUITE!!
Nanny.
Bowser sighed
Bowser: That's number 38.
In the past month his kids had gone through 28 nannies, 6 babysitters, 3 guards, and 1 Smash Fighter.
The first 5 nannies had been from an upscale agency called Golden Shell, before his family was blacklisted. The next 12 nannies had been from other upscale agencies with names like Silver Streams, Jade Mountains, and Onyx Crowns, before word got out that his kids were, as the last nanny from Ivory Rivers put it, "A royal nightmare".
Bowser chuckled to himself.
Bowser: Big words from a nanny that didn't last half an hour.
Then again, none of them lasted more than a few hours.
Not the 7 nannies from other countries, the last one was a Toad that ran the minute the door opened.
Not the 6 so-called "iron willed" babysitters.
Not the 3 guards that decided to switch retire midway through their baby sitting shifts. And not the 4 freelance nannies, the last of whom had just quit.
The only one that had managed to last a day was Link. The Legendary Hero with more titles then he had. How that mute twink had managed to feed them, keep them entertained, and get them to bed, would remain a mystery.
Unfortunately The hero of The Wild had been too busy to babysit for more than a day, though he had offered to do it next time he was in town.
The other smash fighters had told him they were too busy, didn't want to be away from home that long, or just weren't interested.
Well not all of them, there were a few he hadn't called.
Bowser: No! I can't call them!
But deep down he knew he had to. There was an important conference in a few days and Kamek wouldn't be back from his vacation for another week.
Bowser sighed, picked up his phone, and dialed the number he knew by heart.
Bowser: Mario. It's me, Bowser. It's time to cash in that favor you owe me.
Somewhere in the Mushroom Kingdom there's a small city known as Green Mushroom Valley. Its population consists of Humans.
Humans are an odd species. As a group they're more genetically diverse than the other groups, the rather interesting result of the species being descendants of various groups of humanoid refugees from other realms, such as the Hylians, Gerudo, Chozo-humans, Kantoans, and Ylissians. As well as the native human species of the world known as Homo Astra by other worlds, due to their ability to receive incredible powers when they touch the golden stars that exist on this world. And some intermarriage with the other intelligent life forms of this world such as Toads, Koopas, and, admittedly very rarely, Boos.
Consequently the cultures of the humans are just as diverse as they are, with their many faiths reflecting this diversity.
In this city there's a plumbing business owned by one the world famous Mario Brothers! Heroes of the Mushroom Kingdom!
The phone rang.
Mario picked it up
Mario: Mamma Mia, it's a me, Mario! Here to help you with all your plumbing needs!
He relaxed upon hearing Bowser's voice.
Mario: Oh it's you. Is this about go-karting? Because I told you I can't go this weekend i'm to….
The color left Mario's face upon hearing Bowser's request.
Mario:You need me to do what?!
Mario: Yes yes I know you let me beat you at golf last week, to impress that one golf obsessed client. Yes I know I said I owed you a favor, but I…
As the words left his mouth he stared at his brother sleeping in the waiting room. In the span of a month Luigi had been dumped by his fiance, been fired by the cleaning company his Fiance owns, lost his apartment because he couldn't afford the rent, and was currently living in the guest bedroom of any friend or relative that was willing to take him and his spectral dog in. Which unfortunately meant he never stayed in one place for more than a few days, as most people couldn't handle his phantom canine for any kind of extended period of time.
Mario: Bowser still there? How much does it pay? Does it come with room and board?
A smile crept across the plumber's face.
Mario: No no. I'm not interested. But I'm currently looking at someone who I think would be perfect for the job. Whether he knows it or not.
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what our all of the adults jobs?
(I'm only including adult characters that are relatively important to the blog, so none of the dead parents or people like Bowser)
Madame Broode: Started up and runs a wedding planning company, Broodal Weddings. That's not exactly a full-time job, though, since they don't get business 24/7. During the day, she works as an auditor within the outskirts of the kingdom. In the evenings, she goes to the casino and tries to multiply all that money through gambling. And also fuck around and get drunk, too. (If asked, she claims to work three jobs)
Mauve: SEVERELY overworked office job; low-level position. (Receptionist or something, but she's just kinda expected to do EVERYBODY'S work) She hates it, but she can't afford to quit.
Persephone: Technically still queen of the Beanbean Kingdom(?) Full-time flower shop owner :D (It's more of a hobby, so no pressure or anything!)
Popple: Used to be a full-time robber. Doesn't have time for that anymore as he's working an "actual" job until his wife comes home and they can continue criminality. He's trying to get a stable income, an actual house, and all that, so he and his family can go back to living comfortably like they used to. And what IS his current job...? Retail in the local thrift store! Duh! (It's all he could get)
Haru: Full-time king of the Beanbean Kingdom. Also, general local celebrity.
Beef: Pharmacist.
Kaley: Personal gym trainer (Don't worry- She temporarily quit her job for her pregnancy!!)
Kylie: Occasional news reporter for Channel 6. Mostly just collects info for stories and such.
Koopley: Local hero. Kind of an actor, I guess? He is CONSTANTLY being asked to go give public speeches, make guest appearances, and other stuff. Hmmm... Screw it- He can be a firefighter, I guess?? I don't know.
Karry: Mailman. Lives in the Mushroom Kingdom. His routes usually take him around both his home kingdom and the Darklands.
Holly: Candy store owner in the Mushroom Kingdom.
Rex: Fast-food employee. Has been pretty much all his life.
Hooktail: Either an IT manager, or she works at a mattress store (Which is 100% a money laundering scheme) and I genuinely can't decide which.
Amethyst (Boom & Pom's mom): Hair stylist.
Ayung (Boom & Pom's dad): Electrician.
Dr. Twila: (I know, not a commonly seen character) Therapist.
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I had this crossover idea for quite some time and I figured it could be be shared here as another Bowuigi idea.
The 7D x Super Mario Bros
For those of you who are not familiar with the 7D, here's the wiki about the show:
It's my favorite show packed with comedy, great singing and wholesome moments!
Anyways, here's the crossover story!
So, it starts with Queen Delightful having her royal stroll around her kingdom with her assistant, Lord Starchbottom and her beloved pet dog, Sir Yipsalot.
When they were passing through the woods, Sir Yipsalot gave chase to a squirrel, causing the queen to worry. The royal pet collided with a friendly ghost dog roaming and soon, both became best friends. The queen and her assistant soon caught up to the two pooches.
"Oh, I'm a-sorry but is he your dog?" The queen looked up from hugging her pet poodle and immediately fell head over heels the moment she saw a tall, handsome, sapphire eyed, brunette mustached man dressed casually yet regal in green.
"A-Ah yes! And may I know who are you, good sir?" She hastily stood up, helped by her assistant, Starchbottom.
"My name is a-Luigi, madam." The man bowed respectfully, kissing the back of her outstretched hand like a chivalrous gentleman.
"Madam? Sir, you're speaking to Queen Delightful, queen of Jollywood!" Lord Starchbottom informed.
"Ah! My apologies, Your Majesty!" Luigi bowed again. They both chatted for about a while before Luigi decided to resume walking his ghost pet, Polterpup. By then, the queen was absolutely besotted with the green clad stranger. He was everything she wanted in her ideal partner: besides being tall and handsome, he was gentle, patient, intelligent, and mature.
The minute she returned to her castle, Queen Delightful went straight to asking her magic mirror about Luigi. The mirror told her about who he was: one of the Mario brothers who were heroes of the Mushroom Kingdom. When the queen enquired about whether the man was single, the mirror was hesitant to directly answer.
"Well... He's married. To King Bowser of the Koopa Kingdom."
The Queen felt her entire inside self drop already at the revelation that her love-at-first-sight was not a bachelor but added with the fact that he was wed to one of the most terrifying monsters ever known throughout the lands?! As Delightful went through her siren tizzy, she recalled stories and rumours she heard about the infamous monster king who abducted Queen Peach (back then, both she and her were princesses). Two heroes constantly thwarted the Koopa King and rescued the princess. The heroes were the Mario Brothers.
Queen Delightful came to the conclusion that the King must be fed up with constantly failing to marry the princess and resorting to snatching Mario's brother to spite the shorter hero. With that, the Queen left in haste, not hearing the Mirror trying to call her back. Delightful summoned the 7D and together, they journeyed to the Darklands to rescue Luigi from the forced union.
Upon arrival, Queen Delightful and the 7D crashed Bowser's castle and stormed inside to the throne room, only to find that Luigi is not unharmed but he is in fact, the kind and compassionate Queen/King Consort over the Darklands. He and King Bowser were and are still blissfully married after a long, secret relationship and with Queen Peach and King Consort Mario's blessings. (It took quite long for the latter to approve Bowser as his younger brother's husband, it was understandable considering their history.)
Delightful and the 7 dwarfs were very, very dumbfounded that the slender, timid and shy brother of the famous red plumber-turned-king, married the huge, hulking, terrifying blood eyed and haired turtle dragon monarch and that he was a monsterfucker.
Luigi apologized to Delightful for not telling her that he was already married. He and his husband thought all the kingdoms were well informed about their union. Turns out that Jollywood was not one of the most known kingdoms and the Darklands' fearful reputation still lingered even after the peace signed by other kingdoms and the Darklands. This sometimes causes problems like what happened just now to happen. Queen Delightful apologized for assuming the worst and jumping to conclusions.
The Queen was sad that she lost her chance to have her love-at-first-sight but nonetheless, she was glad to see he was happy with his marriage and loved dearly by his spouse. And Queen/King Consort Luigi noticed one of the 7D, a certain shy, green clad dwarf gazing longingly at Delightful. He smiled fondly, having a feeling that Delightful may still have a chance of finding someone sooner than later... ;)
And that's that! What do you guys think?
The 7D, Super Mario Bros and their characters belong to their respective creators. I own nothing except this idea.
Edit: I edited Luigi's lines a bit by his well known Italian accent. I have no grasp of Italian so please don't be offended. 🙏
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The Tale of the Dark Ages
"It has been twenty stellarcycles. More than two vorns since the Thirteen Primes, the Firstforged, turned arms against each other. Nobody has seen the Primes in years, and there has been a generation or two who earnestly believe them to be figures of myth. The realm of Iacon, the great towers, has become naught but a ruin, covered in ash and snow, roads that once led across the world now cracked and broken due to lack of maintenance, towers collapsing under the weight of our sins. We have ruined Cybertron, our home, for the sake of personal glory. Though we, the people of Iacon, persist and maintain our cultural balance, there's not much for us to claim as home but a broken temple and cracked ground. And every day, we get reports of Darklanders encroaching on our territory, Flockers stalking in the shadows of our city, and the Demons have claimed most of the ruin for their own barbarism.
If the rumors are true, an order of knights led by a Darklander, claiming to be the granddaughter of two of the Firstforged, have taken to fighting against the darkness. They shed the icons of their gods, coat their armors in sheens of silver and gold, and strike back with weapons glowing with power none have seen before... power erupting from their very sparks. Desperate measures have been taken by those that follow this so-called Septimus Prime, and other warlords have been waiting for them to slip up.
We cannot wait long enough. So we have taken desperate measures of our own. Young sparklings who have yet to truly live have been kidnapped in the night, lowborn kindlings sold so their scions can afford more energon for themselves, and drifters in need of purpose coerced into our service. And when the time comes and Septimus asks for our cooperation against the demon hordes, we will stand against them with our own knights. No need for glowing weaponry. No need for spark energy. They will stand with their old allegiances stamped boldly on their armor, their eyes aglow with the energy they need, and they will bring this world to order... Our warriors. The Primal Guardians. Our heroes." - Reforgis of Iacon, text recovered from an ancient ruin found in the depths of Lower Iacon.
What the people of Cybertron know of the Dark Ages that followed the Age of the Firstforged is a shadowy picture that you'd have to squint at to make anything out. A lot of old stories distorted by myth and legend, some artifacts that remain intact only by sheer luck, and very rarely a body that hadn't been eaten from the inside out by desperate scavengers or rusted to dust by the ages. As a result, the exact series of events that led to the fall of the Firstforged are not well known, nor anything from between their fall and the rise of modern Iacon and the establishment of the Age calendar. The cynical might say that the Iaconian government at the time would likely have either neglected to fully preserve the history of the Firstforged and Dark Ages from then due to personal ambitions, with some even going so far as to claim that they opted to bury the information outright in hopes to legitimize their perceived legacy as the stewards of the new world. As a result, scholars had to piece together what information they have or are able to glean from what few accounts remain.
The most commonly accepted idea is that Megatronus, Prime of Destruction, struck down fellow Firstforged member Solus, Prime of Technology, and caused the rift between all the different members of the Firstforged, and thus the Schism is all Megatronus's fault. However, if you look closely at the details of this, then the chronology starts to look a little janky. Many accounts paint Solus and Megatronus as being close allies prior to this event and some even claim that the two often got intimately personal, so the change that would lead to Solus's death is kinda hard to track down. There are even some accounts of members of the Radiant Forges, Solus's tribesmen, fighting alongside the Darklanders against troops from the House of Light, even though most historical records recount them either allying with the House of Light or outright abandoning Cybertron. Some even say that while Solus is confirmed to have died before the Schism happened, the two events might not even be remotely connected.
Even more radical historians like to point out this discrepancy and claim that the Schism might've marked an end to the Age of the Firstforged, no event like it legitimately occurred that would justify calling something a new Age - not even the passing of the Matrix of Light, which these historians claim was never a legitimate claim to the seat of power that Prima himself once held. These historians boldly claim that the age of darkness that followed the Schism never truly ended, and it'd only be a matter of time before one of them revealed themselves to the population of Cybertron and usher in a new Golden Age for the commonwealth.
But this is considered naught but the ramblings of madmen who fail to recognize progress. Aside from Amalgus's involvement with the Combatron War, there has not been any evidence to suggest that any member of the Firstforged would make any return...
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Hi!
What do you think would change if the parents had found out about the Trolls early in the first season?
You can get creative as to how the parents find out.
I feel that it could create some complications for sure.
Barbara could find it because of Draal - he isn't the stealthiest guy around, and it may take a sudden return home for the secret to collapse.
Ophelia and Javier could find out because of NotEnrique not being careful enough.
Nana, on the other hand, is definitely the least likely to find out the truth (as she met Aaarrrgghh in the canon and bought Toby's lies), but she also could overhear something that would be impossible to explain.
In any case, I feel that no matter which one of the parents would find it first, they will inform others rather fast. As for when I'll say, it could happen between Bular's defeat and Strickler's return with Angor (so Claire is also involved).
And here are the complications. Firstly, the parents will be against their children risking their lives, and unlike the canon where Jim, Claire, and Toby managed to prove their competence, here they are less experienced and trained (and Claire and Toby still have no weapons), so the parents are justified in their worries. Obviously, Ophelia and Javier also want their son back, but they want someone better suited to play the hero's role.
Jim, Toby, and Claire try to convince the parents that the quest is less dangerous than they think - they will simply retrieve Triumbric stones, and travel to the Darklands to save Enrique (they omit the detail that the Darklands are full of bloodthirsty trolls and who-knows-what). It goes more or less normal until Angor Rot arrives and all the parents go full 'we won't allow risking your lives' mode. The teens are forced to sneak out at first, and it takes a major fight with Angor where the trio demonstrate that they can protect themselves so that the parents finally agree to be supportive of their adventures. Barbara takes over as a medic, Ophelia usually helps Vendel with organizing trolls, Javier tries to learn some fighting, and Nana tries to domesticate gnomes (and gnomes surprisingly take a liking to her).
Another major change is Stricklake's dynamic - after all, Barbara learns that Strickler is both a changeling and an enemy early on. She thinks he used her to get closer to Jim (and as their relationship is at an earlier stage, Strickler needs to put way more effort so that she forgives him). In this AU, Jim and his team initially have no idea that Angor serves Strickler as Strickler pretends he has changed sides. There is no binding spell here, but well, Strickler screws a lot even without it with his lies, so when Angor exposes him eventually, Barbara is furious. However, Strickler starts to waver even earlier, thinking that perhaps he could just drop his plan altogether (he secretly hopes that Jim's team will slay Angor, and with that, his dirty secret will be safe, and he will be able to just have a peaceful life with Barbara and Jim).
#tales of arcadia#toa#what if scenario#parents know early#jim lake jr#claire nuñez#toby domzalski#barbara lake#nana domzalski#ophelia & javier nunez#walter strickler#angor rot#text post#ask box#anon ask
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Whumptober Salvage: Episode 3
Well, I'm back. Finally. More life happened in the past week-and-a-half than I had planned for, but here we are!
Today's theme: Restraints
Today's author commentary: The concept of Luigi [redacted due to story spoilers] is something I got from a fic I read a while ago on fanfiction.net whose name I absolutely cannot recall at the moment. But I love fallout fics like this and it's not an impossible consequence of the events of SPM if things had gone in a certain direction.
Warnings: No real warnings here, I'm just excited about this one :D
Index: Episode 1; Episode 2
~~~~~~
It’s good hardware. Great hardware, even.
Tensile strength? Check. Double check that, he corrects himself with a grimace, pulling at the twin sets of heavy shackles around his wrists and ankles.
The yield strength was high. High enough, he couldn’t even begin to calculate an exact number. (Liar, the voice in the back of his mind corrects. You can’t concentrate on calculating an exact number.)
To reach the malleability threshold must have required something beyond simple fire. Lava would have been his first guess, but he doubts these restraints are a product of the Darklands. Use of an electric current was a feasible concept - maybe - but it would have necessitated one hell of a resistor to produce the heat required to bend this kind of metal into a proper restraint.
This leaves a few less palatable options.
The temperature inside a star would certainly get the job done. But he only knew of one person with even the slightest hope of developing a technology to harness the cosmos in that manner, and Luigi has to believe, for his own sanity, that E. Gadd has no involvement with his current predicament.
Unfortunately, this leaves magic as the only other viable option.
Luigi grits his teeth, absently running his fingers over the cool, smooth surface of the heavy cuffs. No. They couldn’t. They wouldn’t. It had been outlawed years ago, far before he had landed in this strange world. They would have had to strike some kind of deal with the enemy, or spend more coins than he could imagine to acquire this level of restraint. And why did they even have these on hand in the first place? How could they have possibly known -
After everything. Everything he’s done for them.
He’s been kidnapped. Tied up and thrown in a dungeon. Has been bruised, burned, cut, and broken in seventeen different ways. Has been manacled, trussed, bound, caged, buried, boxed, restrained, surrounded.
And it was supposed to be that way, alright? It was all part of being a hero.
Luigi plays at the long chains falling from his wrists, a line of solid, squarish links extending back to a thick, leather belt secured around his waist.
He hadn’t wanted to be a hero. Swooping in and saving the day, getting the pretty girl, marching in parades and receive=ing accolades from a grateful population. It wasn't...him.
No, he had never wanted to be that person.
But was it so wrong to want to be seen as an equal?
He sags against a cold, stone wall with a hoarse sigh, rubbing at the bridge of his nose, his fingers digging into the soft collagen of his eyeballs. The movement produces a percussive, dullen ripple as the chains linked to his wrists fall over another, doubled lines of looping metal drooping from his midline to his shackled ankles.
I guess it was. He huffs out a hollow laugh at the thought, picking up one of the chains, inspecting the dense links at eye level.
There was an art to welding. Not the same kind of art those kids over at LaGuardia used to pump out at all hours of the night - weird, insectile sculptures whose disjointed end result of legs and limbs and tentacles mashed onto a misshapen thorax resembled a creature out of Dr. Frankenstein’s laboratory.
No, the art in welding came from the marriage of form and purpose, in the perfectly rounded curve of a plate face, in the smooth aerodynamics that resulted from a nearly seamless, but unbreakable fusion of two disparate materials.
The art was in the flight of a machine never meant to fly, in a silohoutte never meant to be replicated in such vicious form.
Luigi pulls at either end of the metal links. Whoever had forged these chains knew what they were doing.
The only thing he can’t quite wrap his head around is the belt. Not that a belt in itself was a confusing item. He’s worn belts almost his entire life, a constant war with drooping pants and scolding family. You should eat more. You’re too skinny. You look like a girl. You’re going to get your ass kicked one of these days if you’re not careful.
Sure, he knows about belts. He’s a plumber, right?
And there's nothing too odd about the one he wears now, save the enormous engraved buckle sitting right below his belly button, the nexus point of the chained tentacles unfurling to the four endpoints of his wrists and ankles.
He was told it was meant to bind his magic.
A dark chuckle vibrates beneath his sternum.
Magic. A ludicrous thought.
Magic isn't real.
And I couldn’t pull a rabbit out of a hat if I tried.
A heavy door squeals open on the opposite side of the dark chamber. A short, robed figure enters first, followed by two familiar beings of similar height. The guards, who he’s nicknamed “Click and Clack,” (a memory of slow, sultry summer days, his too-long legs dangling off the rusted metal of a fire escape, the crackling static of his little radio fighting against the tortured grumbles of the nearby D train) take their usual places on either side of him, their domed heads only reaching as far as his mid-tricep, their pointed, well-honed spears towering tall above Luigi’s own head.
The third visitor is one he’s not seen before, his long, embroidered robes pooling in eddies of velvet at his feet. He spares a single, disgusted look in Luigi’s direction as he pushes a pair of little, round glasses up his nose.
“It’s time,” he says.
Click and Clack take him roughly by either arm, their odd little entourage an awkward three-legged race in slow motion, the trio limping behind the robed being, who has turned back towards the open door, his steps solemn, measured.
This is it, Luigi thinks, his gut churning.
There will be an audience, for certain. Beings who will be all but salivating to witness him dragged into the light, shackled and accused.
He used to think he knew where the line was, that unshakable boundary between enemy and ally.
He realizes now that perhaps that line never existed at all, or if it did, it only served to separate him from everyone else.
The light of the interior chamber is harsh, too bright to be natural. Luigi squints his eyes, letting his head drop towards the floor as he’s led through a deluge of camera shutter clicks that sound like the wings of a thousand frenetic cicadas, past the murmuring tributaries of whispered accusation and barely-shrouded invective.
He can feel their eyes on him, all of them. As Luigi approaches a bare, wooden seat, he senses his gaze, a thousand unspoken words in an unmet, silent question. Luigi tenses his shoulders, making for the stripped down chair that is both the source of his salvation and damnation. There’s no threat, no promise in this universe or any other which could convince him to answer back, to meet that too-familiar pair of azure eyes.
You let this happen.
The next moments pass in a blur. He sits, then stands again at the prompting of Clack (or is it Click?), who remains steadfast at his flank. Finally, he sits one last time as a low, sonorous voice to his left produces a slurry river of speech.
“...your duty today…”
“...beyond a reasonable doubt…”
“...the defendant must be found…”
Reality crystallizes around him in one horrifying, frozen moment.
This is really happening.
“Ms. Shiitake, what is today’s case?” the severe-looking Toad judge asks.
A stout, female Toad in a drab olive uniform steps forward, clipboard in hand. For a brief moment, her image is overlaid by another, beige skin darkening into a periwinkle shadow crowned in a bun-topped fuschia.
Luigi shakes his head, trying to bring his focus back to the room.
“Your Honor,” she begins in a bored monotone, “today’s case is The Mushroom Kingdom versus Luigi Marionetti.”
“And what are the charges?”
Nothing. I didn’t do anything!
“High treason and crimes against the state as they relate to the events of the appearance of the Void, the Chaos Heart, and Mr. Marionetti’s actions taken against representatives of the Mushroom Kingdom, which include, but are not limited to, attempted murder of our head of state.”
A wave of discontented grumbling washes over the packed courtroom, a young Toad in the back climbing onto his chair, pointing at Luigi with a fiery gesture.
“Traitor!” he yells before being pulled back into his seat by a small gang of nearby onlookers.
“Order!” The judge raps his gavel three times in sharp succession.
Luigi swallows over a swollen lump in his throat. Please. I didn’t do it. It wasn’t me. I didn’t want to hurt anybody.
“Is the prosecution ready?” the judge asks.
“Yes, your Honor,” a sharp-suited Toad in red replies as she stands.
Are you so sure of that, the other gravelly voice in his head retorts, an inverted mirror of his own.
The judge turns to the other side of the room. “And is the defense ready?”
Another Toad in a black suit and purple tie stands, fixing Luigi with an inscrutable look before answering, “Yes, your Honor.”
I don’t…I can’t…I don’t know what happened.
“Then the prosecution may proceed.”
Yes, the dark voice chuckles. Yes, you do.
#hello there#writing#the eternal struggle#luigi#is there a car talk reference in this story?#yes#because i feel like that would have been in character for brooklyn luigi#also yes laguardia high school is a real place although i can't comment on the art students' output#also i have thoughts about luigi growing up in 80s/90s brooklyn and how he would have been perceived and how that shaped his attitudes#i have a lot of thoughts about everything#we're back!#hopefully more premanently
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Warmth (A one-shot about a young Grovyle and Hero in the Dark Future)
Clouds sat unmoving in a grey sky. Boulders hung frozen in the air. Trees stood in full bloom, waiting to birth fruit that would never come. Waves were raised high in the ocean, but could not crash. The sun didn't shine and the stars didn't burn in the night sky. It could've been weeks, or years, since the world fell into darkness. The only indicators of time passing were the collapse of society and the stubble growing on his chin. With each passing day he felt weaker.
In this time, when the only warmth to be found was in your own blood, and gentle company, he tickled the chin of the Treecko clinging to his shoulder.
Treecko chirruped appreciatively, stretching to expose more of his chin to the young man's gentle touch.
Smiling to himself, he pried the little lizard from his shoulder, placing him down. 'I'm going again, Treecko.'
'No!' Cried Treecko.
He scoffed; he often talked to himself and Treecko had begun to learn some of the words. Now, the lizard had a vocabulary to match it's young age.
'I'll be back as fast as I can, I promise.' His face hardened and he pointed at the ground. 'You stay here this time. It's not safe out there.'
Treecko gazed upon his surroundings for the thousandth time. A small cluster of trees with a ramshackle hut built between. Brambles were piled against the roof and walls, making the home look more like a giant thorn bush. Treecko had been upset when the young man implemented the disguise; the human had gotten countless scratches from the thorns. Eventually, Treecko nodded.
Satisfied, he smiled and rubbed the Treecko's head. 'Good boy. I'll be back soon.'
Treecko watched his friend's retreating form as it slowly disappeared over the dark horizon, then he scurried inside and began to play with the ball the young man had made him. One question burned through the young Treecko's mind, 'if it's not safe, why do you go?'
Treecko knew the answer, but that didn't make it easier. So, Treecko played with his ball and tried not to think about it.
Across the darklands, the young man's destination came into view. Since the planet's paralysis, food didn't grow. Any existing food stores were quickly ravaged and very little could still be found on the planet's surface. The only reliable spot to find food was in mystery dungeons, and even then it was always grimy, and almost worse than starving.
Mystery dungeons were strange places, with no logic to them. How the items appeared or the layout changed, the young man didn't know. Not that it mattered. As long as food kept appearing, he could survive another day, and he would survive. Provided, he didn't die first.
Aggresive Pokemon roamed mystery dungeons, competing for food and items, or having just deemed the dungeon their home. Unable to compete with their strength, he found himself relying on speed and agility to escape. His policy was to get in, get out, maximise items with no complications. It was a practical, yet unrealistic, plan.
He had returned to the dungeon and now strode through long, dark hallways. The grey floor looked as if it were made of clouds, but it crunched like dirt. Thick walls of red and purple stone lined the edge of the dungeon.
Exiting the hallway, he cautiously stepped into a room, his gaze settling on what looked like a purple stone. He checked the coast was clear and dashed forwards, arm outstretched for the grimy food.
An explosion rocked the room and he was sent careening backwards. He skidded across the ground, coming to a rough stop. His legs burned and itched with the feeling of grazed skin. A Mismagius hovered protectively over the food, and it's eyes glowed blue as it prepared another Shadow Ball.
He was lucky the first attack had missed him, but he wasn't out of the woods yet. Standing slowly, he held out his hands innocently and began to back out of the room.
Mismagius watched cautiously, and held it's attack, the ball hanging ominously before it. As he reached the corridor he'd entered from, Mismagius decided it didn't want to take any chances, and launched the attack.
Seeing the Shadow Ball fire, he dove into the corridor. He landed hard and covered his head, shards of debris raining down on him. Then, he was up and running, desperately fleeing for the next floor. Mismagius gave up the chase and devoured it's prize.
'Moving on,' he muttered, slowing his pace. He continued his meticulous dungeon crawl and came across the stairs without finding any more food.
Stumbling on the stairs, he rolled onto his back, suddenly finding himself lying on the next floor. From his position, he could see a Drifloon watching him, it's eyes wide.
Drifloon emitted a loud, high-pitched whine. The cry was answered a moment later as a Drifblim floated in.
Drifblim's gaze narrowed and it spun, a ghostly wind bursting out from it. The Ominous Wind filled the room, slicing his clothes and leaving countless cuts upon his bare skin.
Drifblim was blocking the only exit to the room and was already readying another attack. He curled into a ball and ushered a silent plea that Treecko would forgive him. Yet, the attack never came.
Opening his eyes, he watched as a Dusclops came charging into the room, barrelling into Drifblim.
The two creatures roared and he scurried to his feet. Staying low, he shuffled about, looking for an opening. Then, as Drifblim prepared an attack, Dusclops threw ghostly balls of fire at it.
The young man charged forwards, ducking the fireballs and racing from the room. Though, as he passed, his gaze met Dusclops' and it was as if the young man could feel Dusclop's emotions, it's pain, sorrow, grief.
Tearing his eyes away, the young man kept running. He couldn't take any chances. Treecko was counting on him to return.
As he went, he happened upon a piece of grimy food, which he eagerly buried in his pockets. A sudden wind and deep groan emanated from somewhere within the dungeon.
His eyes widening, the young man cast caution to the wind and sprinted through the dungeon. Skidding round corners, he dove past aggressive Pokemon, hurrying for the exit, but then it caught his eye.
A gleaming red apple sat in the corner of the room he'd entered. Beside it was a sleeping Sableye.
There was no choice, no contest. Even as the wind picked up and the groaning grew it louder, even as it felt like the dungeon's maw was opening, ready to devour him, the young man charged for the apple. He leapt past Sableye scooped up the fruit and barreled down the nearest exit.
The wind continued to hasten, and the noise became unbearable in his ears. Yet, his gaze lit upon the stairs and he felt hope spark within him.
Diving for the stairs, the young man suddenly found himself outside the dungeon, his unblemished prize safe in his grasp. His mouth watered at the sight of the apple. So, he reached into his pocket, pulled out the grimy food, and ate it quickly. His body was wracked with stinging pain as it's ill effects rapidly spread. Hopefully it would die down by the time he reached home.
Every step was agony, poison shooting through his body likes hundreds of glass shards. There was no ignoring it, so, when he eventually reached his ramshackle hut, he bit down upon his tongue.
The young man strode in, smiled at Treecko, and handed the little lizard his apple. Treecko looked at the fruit in wonder, then glanced suspiciously at his friend.
The young man smiled and sat, leaning against the wall. 'I found two, but I was so hungry I already ate mine. Go ahead!'
Needing no further prompting, Treecko tore voraciously into the apple relishing it's sweet juices.
Meanwhile, he only tasted the warm blood spewing from where he'd bitten too hard upon his tongue. Still, he smiled. All the pain in the world couldn't tempt him to ruin Treecko's happiness in any way.
Rather, when he found he could speak again, he told Treecko stories of days long past. Stories of heroes, and friends, and sunrises.
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