“I brought a new face. This is Boss Editor. He edits levels for SMBX, meaning he makes levels for Mario and Luigi to train with.” TNTtimelord declared.
“How do you do?” Boss Editor said as he knelt down and bowed, kissing the princess's hand in a gentlemanly fashion.
“Oh! Boss Editor, thank you for coming here. We really need your help!” Princess Peach explained.
“I've heard. I still very much mourn for the loss of Princess Daisy of Sarasaland. She was a beautiful woman and a powerful leader. She was gone too soon.” Boss Editor explained as he looked over.
“The Dimble Woods are surprisingly Mist-free right now.” TNTtimelord added, “We can probably plant a Genesis Tree there to help push the Mist back.”
“But Bowser's Castle is a Mist Generator right now. Wouldn't we be too close to it?” Princess Peach asked.
“The What now?” Boss Editor asked puzzled.
“Oh! You didn't know?” TNTtimelord observed, “The Mushroom Kingdom is under attack by a peculiar enemy, like one we've seen only once before. You've watched Muyoko's stream, right?”
“Yeah...” Boss Editor said, “I saw Noa almost die back there. She's not a very clever tactician. Then again, I don't play a lot of role-playing games.”
“Oh, yeah! How is she doing on her quest to get to the Delilases?” TNTtimelord asked Princess Peach.
“She got stuck on Berserker.” Princess Peach replied, “I hope that this isn't anything bad about it.”
“Sounds like she stumbled upon a difficult boss. Keep an eye out for her okay?” TNTtimelord said concerned.
“'Hoy there!”
Princess Peach and Boss Editor jumped.
“What?!” Boss Editor gasped.
Right before them, was a man with charcoal black hair in a peculiar warrior's outfit. Following them were two women, one of which was wearing blue leather armor and had blue hair held up by a golden crown. She was holding a golden bladed weapon. Alongside her was her sister, a woman in plate armor holding a lance and wearing blue twin tails.
“Odin?” Elise's voice piped up.
“Papa!” Ophelia shouted out with glee.
“You know them?” Princess Peach asked Elise.
“My beautiful Elise! I was not expecting for us to meet again in person!” the man said, opening his arms wide for Elise to pounce on him and hug him.
“Owain? What does this mean?” the blue haired girl in the twin tails asked puzzled.
“Lucina, Cynthia... This is the fated bride of the Great Odin Dark, and our daughter Ophelia Dusk!” the man announced introducing Elise and Ophelia to the two girls.
“Oh. I thought they were in a more... familiar realm.” Lucina, the one in leather armor laughed nervously.
“I did too...” The man named Owain (or Odin according to Elise and Ophelia) said, pondering to himself over the situation.
“You should meet up with Benny and I. We can talk about it if you'd like.” Elise said.
“Good idea!” Owain said smiling, “That way we are safe from those monsters from the Mist!”
“Hey, Owain. Didn't you notice that the village here has no Mist?” Lucina asked.
“Yeah. Come to think of it, we didn't stumble upon any monsters here in this village at all either. Everyone is sentient... and happy here.” Cynthia, the one in the twin tails said. She looked around with Lucina.
“It must be thanks to the great Genesis Tree that you made it here safely.” Elise said with a happy smile.
“We lost Inigo in the Mist. Brady and Laurent will be arriving with us shortly.” Lucina explained.
“Is he Lazlow? Camilla would be sad.” Elise murmured aloud.
“Yeah. He was helping Noire out in rescuing the children. However, he wasn't the only one. We lost Gerome in this storm as well.” Lucina replied to Elise.
“Ohh...” Cynthia sobbed, “I hate you had to tell her that.”
Inside TNTtimelord and Boss Editor sat down with Princess Peach as Elise explained her story. She talked of the war between Nohr and Hoshido and how the twins Rioci and Miyako stopped the majority of the fighting by killing a monster posing as her father. She also discussed how a mysterious stranger with blue hair and red eyes from an alternate realm came in and helped them bring Valla back to their former glory but not before Justine and Gilbert, the monsters that Odin talked with Ophelia about destroyed their realm leaving the people at Shigure and Dwyer's coronation the only survivors of the realm, including Elise and her family.
“I see. This is why you're not at Castle Krankleburg and instead in Princess Peach's castle.” Owain frowned, “This is very bad. Justine and Gilbert have conquered our realm together, but destroying a realm is a whole other story.”
“Who is Justine and Gilbert again?” Boss Editor asked worried.
“They're descendants of the Plegian dark dragon, Grima. Together they summoned him in our realm. They've raided and pillaged the lands where Chon'sin and Rosanne once stood, and they took Ylisse next. They're horrible creatures that take the form of normal humans like us.” Cynthia said angrily.
“So they're the bad guys.” Boss Editor nodded, still concerned.
“Listen. If what you said is true about your realm, Elise, then the Mushroom Kingdom and all of its neighbors could be destroyed next.” Lucina hissed.
“Lucina, we're here!”
Lucina turned. A priest with a scar over head and orange hair that made one think of warm pumpkin pie. With him was a dark haired mage wearing a pointed, wide brim hat, and glasses as well as a blonde girl wearing green gear fit for an archer and a feather in her hair.
“There you are.” Lucina smiled, relieved.
“Did you find Yarne and Nah? What about Gerome? And Kjelle?” Cynthia asked the mage in the glasses.
“No such luck. The realms Mist has separated up tremendously. It seems that trying to scrutinize the source of the Mist remained fruitless for us.” the mage in the glasses explained.
“This isn't good.” Lucina murmured.
“Say, Owain. Didn't you say Severa decided to stay with her family in Elise's realm?” the pumpkin haired man asked Owain.
“Oh yes! How has Severa been, Elise? Has she been protecting her daughters?” Owain asked Elise.
Elise and Ophelia were quiet. Princess Peach sat there saddened, as TNTtimelord coughed awkwardly.
“Severa...” Elise began to speak up, “...She didn't make it. The Mist got a hold of her and a couple others when they were foraging for food in this kingdom. Lazlow's daughter, Soleil was trying to protect the villagers of the Mushroom Kingdom's nearby town. Ophelia is the only person biologically related to the Freedom Fighters from Ylisstol.”
Ophelia began to cry. The blonde girl accompanying the priest and mage began crying with her.
“Oh Gods...” Lucina gasped.
“Inigo may have been a womanizer at heart, but he was also one of the bravest warriors we have. The fact he lost a person that could have continued his legacy means the Mist is one to take no prisoners.” The mage sighed.
“The horrors however is that Justine and Gilbert still left the door to the realm we escaped from open. But why? What is in there that they want us to come back to? They've killed everyone we knew and loved. I've never got to hear from my father again!” Lucina cried.
“Princess! Thank goodness you are safe!”
It was Toadsworth, who came in frantic and alarmed.
“Toadsworth?” TNTtimelord gasped.
“What's wrong? Of course I am alright. TNTtimelord has been with me this whole time. We were talking with Boss Editor about the threat of...”
“A tall green haired woman and a blonde man came from the heavens riding Seru! They were attempting to capture some of our refugees from Nohr and Hoshido! They said they were coming after you next, your highness!” Toadsworth cried.
“Oh no!” Princess Peach gasped in shock.
“Who were they, exactly?” Lucina glowered.
“Their names... were Justine and Gilbert, the children of Grima. They captured Rioci and Miyako's family more specifically, but they even grabbed a hold of Dwyer and Shigure, the former kings of Valla!” Toadsworth sobbed.
“Rioci and Miyako? Who are they, exactly?” Lucina asked puzzled.
“Rioci and Miyako are the twin dragons of Dusk and Dawn! Rioci accompanied me in my quest to ensure the safety of Nohr while Miyako is the proud Hoshidan general that defeated us in the Nohr-Hoshido War. They may sound like sworn enemies, Lucina, but they both collaborated on the assassination of the monster possessing King Garon.” Owain explained to Lucina.
“This isn't good!” Elise stood up, “We have to go rescue them!”
“But how? If they went into the Mist, Elise, if we go out there without Muyoko and the others, we'll die out there!” TNTtimelord yelled.
“That isn't true. In fact, we were escorted here by a talking... block.” Lucina murmured embarrassed.
“Ah yes! The talking block that spoke just like Duke Virion!” Cynthia giggled, “I liked that guy!”
“Duke Virion was the husband of Justine prior to her corruption getting the better of her. The last think he did was help us escape. We never got to see him again, however, meeting Monsieur Broque first in the Mists of the Mushroom Kingdom made us remember him fondly.” the mage explained to them.
“So that was his name? Laurent, you sure got a good memory.” the pumpkin-haired priest said scratching his head.
“Monsieur Broque? Oh my! He must be alone!” Princess Peach gasped.
“You all! We need to get to the Dimble Woods first. We can plant the Genesis Tree up at the deepest part of the wood!” TNTtimelord explained.
“How did Broque survive the Mist though? Don't Seru attack anything sentient?” Toadsworth asked.
“He said the Ra Seru Egg he was holding in his hands is what is keeping the other Seru away. I don't know what that means, but something tells me that Seru is a good one, not like the other Seru in the Mist.” Cynthia explained.
“Lucina. I have an idea. We'll use Monsieur Broque to find Miyako's family in Ylisse.” Tntimelord explained.
“What about Muyoko and the others?” Princess Peach asked.
“They'll be tasked to take the Genesis Seed into the Dimble Woods. If they do it in time, we can push the Mist back without hurting any of us in the Mist!” TNTtimelord explained.
“Good God, isn't that risky though? We have only one guy to follow around in the other realm. Plus, I don't play RPGs.” Boss Editor crossed his arms groaning.
“Don't go into Ylisse.” Lucina shrieked, “Not if you're searching. Rioci and Miyako's family may as well be dead if they are there.”
“No! I don't want to believe it!” Princess Peach cried.
“Rioci's my brother. Not only that, but I grew up with Peri and Niles being my older brothers' retainers for the longest time. With them gone, all of them will be heartbroken! I don't want to see them cry. So we'll have to go look for them together!” Elise pouted.
“Elise, it's too dangerous to go into Ylisse alone. I'll at least come with you.” Owain declared.
“Me too!” Ophelia pouted.
Muyoko and the others were brought into the Dimble Woods after Muyoko snuck a banana under Zola's pillow and she 'borrowed' the love lotion Izana was hiding in the bamboo plant in their room. Vivian and Peasley looked around with her, Luigi hid behind Muyoko, understandably afraid and Goombella was moving ahead further into the Dimble Woods. Bowser stayed with Muyoko on guard.
“Are you sure we need to plant them here?” Luigi asked.
“Yeah, the Princess said that Dimble Woods have a peculiar area that we can plant the Genesis Seed.” Muyoko said.
“Muyoko! I hear a cry for help in the forest.” Ozma shrieked.
“Are you guys not the only ones?” Muyoko turned to everyone.
“I hear it too.” Vivian explained, “Meta also feels sentient warmth.”
“This is odd.” Muyoko said.
They moved deeper into the forest where Muyoko and friends discovered a rabbit-eared man with a brunette girl with pointed ears being held by a female armored warrior. Alongside them were Puera and her two brothers, Hotaru and Ame followed by Rioci's daughters, Nina, Cosette, Noa, Petra, and little Portia. They were clinging onto a branch as the woods shook, more specifically the tree.
“Stay back.” Muyoko told Vivian and Luigi.
“Muyoko! Look!” Ozma gasped.
Bowser's eyes widened. They saw what was scaring these children to stay up there, and it was ugly... A red armored man riding a winged lion-like creature with red and blue fur was prowling.
“Fear not! The proud and brave Raynof has come to aid you in coming out of the tree, children!” the man grinned devilishly, his mustache and beard not helping his case.
“All hail Brave Raynof! All hail Raynof the Brave!” booming voices echoed.
Muyoko snarled, “Raynof... So we meet at last in person...”
“The Ra-Seru Warriors of the Mushroom Kingdom are rogues and thieves! Do not trust these cowards.” Raynof told the children.
“Muyoko!” Puera cried out.
“Muyoko, leave us to die. It's Papa Niles and our mothers you need to worry about!” Nina yelled towards Muyoko.
“Papa Niles saved our lives by pushing us here. We're pushing you back so you don't get hurt!” Cosette shrieked, pulling her sisters back.
“Listen, you forgot who we are.” Muyoko said lifting Ozma up.
“No! You listen. We lost Gerome to this monster. We saw 'Brave Raynof''s mount crunch him and Minerva up! Please! Don't suffer the same fate as him!” the rabbit man squeaked.
“Bitch, bring it on.” Muyoko taunted the mount.
“Caruban! Show these Ra-Seru Warriors who is the strongest.” Raynof grinned.
And so another battle arose.
“Bowser! You try to get the children down slowly!” Jedo explained, “They are scared and confused. They shouldn't be in the Mist!”
“You mean I have to do all the rescuing, and Muyoko and the others get to do the monster pounding?” Bowser frowned, “That's not right at all!”
“Bowser, only you have the strength to climb up the tree and get the children down safely. Imagine if these children were your own, scared and confused!” Jedo warned Bowser.
“Alright. It can't be helped if you're too afraid to touch it.” Bowser sighed, giving in to Jedo's insistence.
“Be careful, Muyoko. This could be a long fight.” Ozma explained.
“Everyone! You each have a special art that can be activated with your Ra-Seru!” Starlow piped up, “These are special exceptions to the 'Only Muyoko and Goombella can have Arts rule!'”
“Oh yeah!” Goombella grinned, “In that case, we'll be ready!”
Muyoko watched Vivian activate her first attack, 'Tornado Flame'. Then Luigi with 'Frost Breath'.
“Muyoko! Caruban is weak to Fire.” Ozma explained.
“Alright.” Muyoko nodded.
“However, that doesn't mean we're the ones having trouble.” Ozma said.
Peasley attacked with his special art with Mule and saw the lack of damage that Caruban took from it.
“Hahaha! Weak Ra-Seru Warriors. Don't you see that Caruban doesn't mind the water?” Raynof laughed.
“Wait. Water conducts electricity.” Muyoko observed.
She ran up to pull her attack on Caruban, “Thunder Punch”, which did extra damage to Caruban, and to Raynof.
“Great job, Muyoko! You observed basic chemistry!” Ozma grinned.
“My turn!” Goombella noted as she ran up to punch Caruban.
Caruban went down, outnumbered five to two. Raynof was left standing.
“No, Caruban!” Raynof yelled, “We're supposed to defeat them! Pathetic Caruban!”
“Get the Hell out, coward.” Muyoko snapped.
“Guh! You all have been able to take down a Seru monster!” Raynof growled back, “But I'm Raynof the Brave. I won't give up. I'll take down you all with another Seru soon. One that is stronger than before!”
As Raynof left, Bowser was holding the last person, the rabbit-eared man who was struggling out of Bowser's arms.
“Don't eat me!” He squeaked, “Not like Gerome!”
“Calm down! I don't eat humanoids!” Bowser snarled angrily at the rabbit-eared man. He had brown hair with a wild orange streak involved.
“The Seru monster ate Gerome. Let's see if we can get them out.” Muyoko said as she took out a knife.
“No!... It's too late. We've been up here for hours with the children after Gerome was eaten alive.” the pointy-eared brunette explained.
“Nah...” the rabbit-eared man said, hugging the girl as he began sobbing.
“You're monstrous but you saved our lives from dehydration and starvation. What are you?” the armored woman, who had dark green hair asked.
“I'm Bowser Koopa, the king of the Koopas. Right now I'm at a truce with the Mushroom Kingdom to get rid of the Mist. The little guy on my hand is Jedo. He's the one who told me to get you guys down.” Bowser explained pointing at Jedo.
“Nice to meet you.” Jedo lit up as he greeted them.
“My name is Kjelle, daughter of the Ylissean Shepherds, Sully and Stahl.” the armored woman explained, “Nah is a Manakete child of Captain Chrom's retainer, Frederick, and Yarne is the last of his kind, the Taguels, and the son of the youngest Shepherd, Ricken.”
“Nice to meet you.” Nah curtsied.
“S-so you're not dangerous?” Yarne shrieked.
“Well only if you are a Seru Monster. Then we'll kick your ass to kingdom come!” Goombella said as she practiced some moves.
“Puera! Is everything okay?” Luigi asked the girl.
“So the Noire look-a-like is one of your own men?” Kjelle asked, her eyes widened.
“She's Miyako's daughter. The oldest of the children of the twin dragons.” Starlow explained.
“Who's Noire? She sounds like a beaut.” Bowser said as he checked the other children for injuries.
“Papa Zola pushed me away... If it means what I think it means... Papa Zola must be in danger! We need to warn Mama! I don't want to lose my Papa!!” Puera began to cry.
“Don't worry. Your mother and uncle, Rioci, are with Princess Peach on an excursion to rescue them. Who grabbed you guys and why?” Muyoko asked.
Luigi was reporting back to the princess in Italian.
“It was... Justine and Gilbert. But they weren't alone. That Zeto guy from earlier found us and grabbed everyone. I remember Papa Zola telling me how proud he was to raise me under all the wars in my lifetime, before he dropped me.” Puera began to snivel, “I don't want Papa Zola to die! He and the other Papas helped me along so much!”
“Puera, pray for the safety of your Papa. Your love for him is just as admirable than your mother's love for everyone in Hoshido.” Meta explained to her.
“Yes. The children must pray. They're activating the Genesis Tree for Dimble Woods!” Terra piped up.
As Muyoko planted the seed with Vivian's help, Caruban began to rapidly rot and decompose into the soil. As everyone prayed, the Genesis Tree activated as it grew just as rapidly with the help of the children's prayers, the prayers of Kjelle, Nah, and Yarne, and the combination of the Ra-Seru's power. The Mist was being pushed away.
“Heh! Piece of cake!” Peasley grinned.
“Hold that thought!” Mule snapped, “That means the Seru-Kai is growing stronger. The next time we plant a Genesis Seed in this realm will be much more challenging for you all. Remember that!”
“Hey!” Peasley pouted.
“So if they're going way into the Mist, who exactly is taking them? The only ones to make it out of the Mist are the six of us, unless...” Bowser began to speak up.
“Monsieur Broque!” Nah gasped.
“That's right. Monsieur Broque was wearing a Seru but he actually guided us to safety.” Yarne followed Nah's surprise up with another awed statement.
“Whoever is trying to find these children's parents, they're probably using Monsieur Broque as a guide!” Kjelle nodded.
“Oh yeah. That guy...” Bowser laughed nervously.
“Something wrong?” Luigi asked.
“He and I fought a couple times, but we should be okay...” Bowser laughed nervously once again.
“As long as he's trustful, we should probably look forward to seeing the Princess returns safely with Miyako and Rioci's spouses.” Vivian smiled.
“Papa...” Puera murmured.
“Welcome to Ylisstol!” Monsieur Broque chimed in, “Zis is zee old 'ome of zee Princess Lucina et Princess Cyntia.”
“This is Ylisstol? This looks completely different than what I remembered.” Rioci said looking around in shock and horror.
The kingdom looked alien. The sky was almost like the wall of a giant wolf from the inside, breathing in and out with short breaths. The walls had veins and the floors felt gummy, as if they were walking over rancid meat. Aside from the Mist, Ylisstol did not look like it was a man-made civilization at this point.
“Monsieur Broque?” Alice asked, “Are you sure this is the place Lucina and Cynthia came from?”
“Oui, Monsieur Mario.” Broque replied, very certain, “'Oever, zee interior decorating went into a bit of a decay since I met zee Duke of Rosanne here wit zee two girls and zeir company.”
Elise and Sakura stopped for a bit.
“Elise, what's wrong?” Owain asked worryingly.
“Sakura?” Miyako showed the same concern.
“Everyone, do you hear that?” Elise asked.
“There's someone here. Someone's crying for help!” Sakura said, holding onto Elise in worry.
“They're right!” Ophelia gasped, “Within the walls of the ruins of Ylisstol are the cries for the help from strangers!”
“Good God, there's someone here?!” Mario said in shock and horror.
“Help...”
Everyone turned, looking for where the noise was coming from.
They found the source, a man looking familiar to Owain was pulling Princess Peach's arm.
“Eeeek!” Princess Peach gasped.
Princess Peach pulled back. The man's grip however was weak, almost like he was losing his strength.
“That looks like... Vaike!” Owain gasped.
“Good lord! He's within these walls!” Mario gasped.
“I hope this isn't what happened to Yukimura and the others...” Princess Peach said beginning to cry.
“Hurry! Let's pull him out!” Elise turned to Sakura.
“Right!” Sakura agreed with Elise.
The two girls ran up and attempted to pull Vaike out.
“I wouldn't do zat if I were mes filles petites.” Monsieur Broque said as he pulled the girls back.
“But why! He's trapped!” Elise looked at Monsieur Broque with desperation.
“If you pull 'im out, 'e will die.” Monsieur Broque explained, “Zee Seru in my body 'as been warning me greatly zat zis is no ordinary town. Zis kingdom is unfortunately possessed by a Seru. A simulated Seru in fact.”
“You mean... Everyone here? The townspeople... The noble soldiers... They're all fused to this simulated Seru?” Princess Peach asked even more in horror.
“Zis kingdom... Is what 'as happened to zee great dragon Grima zat Justine et Gilbert worshiped, to be exact.” Monsieur Broque continued, “I can tell. Zere six eyes watching over us.”
Everyone looked up as the sky's 'clouds' rolled over to show six pupils looking down on the town.
“Oh my...” Princess Peach gasped.
“This is what Justine and Gilbert have done to the hands that feed them! Watch and learn, as these vagabonds are truly monstrous beings, not fit to be called sentient anymore!” Owain snarled.
“Let's search for Yukimura... Hopefully he's not among these people!” Princess Peach nodded.
Continuing on their search, Owain was becoming more and more uneasy when they entered the castle.
“Honey, hold my hand if you're scared. We're going to be fine.” Elise said.
“My beautiful Elise, you say such sweet and gentle words, however...” Owain frowned, “This place was my home and after seeing what those monsters did to my real family, this place will forever haunt me regardless of your actions.”
“Odin...” Elise began crying, “I hate it when you're like this... but I understand. This place I can't even imagining happening to Windmire.”
“Owain? Is that you?”
Owain paused as they heard that voice.
A pouch within Grima/Ylisstol opened up and Owain gasped. A blonde haired woman protecting her dark haired husband wearing the clothes of a Sword Master revealed themselves.
“Mother!” Owain began to cry.
“Princess Lissa?” Elise gasped.
“Oh Owain... I'm so sorry we failed you.” the father coughed as he spoke.
“We didn't want to let you see us like this, but we learned of your mission to find the family of your wife, Princess Elise of Nohr.” the mother, Princess Lissa began to speak, her voice trying not to sound like she's in tremendous pain.
“Princess Lissa! What's wrong? Can you see us?” Elise asked.
“Unfortunately no...” Lissa explained, “The Mist combined with Grima engulfing us has blinded everyone in the town, this even includes us. Listen, it is a good thing that you came here in such short notice.”
“What? Why?” Sakura asked.
“Virion, the Duke of Rosanne and the husband of Justine is with her former concubines. Every now and then another force possesses them. They're named Hari. They speak of the past, present, and future. They will also know where exactly Justine has taken Elise's in-laws.” the father began to explain.
“They're deeper within the castle, in the dungeons.” Lissa replied, “Lon'qu and I have tried to stay sane with this tremendous pain that we endure every day. We've figured when Hari visits. We send our prayers that you have found a safe haven... You, Lucina, Cynthia... Everyone.”
“Thank God Luigi didn't come with us. He'd faint at the idea of entering the dungeons.” Mario shook his head. He tried to lighten the mood to no success.
“Looks like we have to head into the dungeon... Odin?” Rioci asked.
“Before I come with you guys... I want to speak with my parents...” Owain said frowning.
“Oh, Odin... I'm so sorry.” Elise cried.
“I'm just glad Lucina and Cynthia didn't come with us. They would be devastated.” Owain replied.
“Owain, we have so much to speak to you about.” Lon'qu said.
“Monsieur Broque, please keep an eye on him.” Miyako said, “The Seru in this place could attack us.”
“Oui, Mademoiselle!”
“I'll stay with Odin as well. Me and Ophelia can protect him.” Elise said.
“I never met the legendary Lissa of Ylisse before, but... Regardless of her condition, I wished to meet her. I will be with my father to ensure he is safe on his conversation with her.” Ophelia frowned.
“I'll heal you...” Sakura said as she followed Rioci and Miyako along with Peach and Mario, as well as a curious Alice that followed them.
“And my Danmaku can protect you all.” Alice nodded.
“Thank you...” Princess Peach said.
It took them a couple stairs down to find the dungeons. Sakura shrieked at each horror she found in the walls, each one talking in fear that Justine and Gilbert came to visit, and sighs of relief that they weren't here to torture them.
“This is not a good sign. It's getting darker and darker here.” Rioci cried.
“Shanghai! Hourai!” Alice clapped her hands. The two dolls lit up the area for Rioci and Miyako to see, however it looked more and more they were entering through the entrails of a beast more than entering through a dungeon used for torture.
“Thank you, Alice.” Miyako said. Her heart was actually racing.
“Miyako! Are you okay?” Rioci asked.
“I'm... I'm fine. I just... Am afraid one of these faces would be one of our friends. In fact... Some of these faces resemble the children of my family's retainers.” Miyako said, pointing to some of the moving hands that were in the walls.
“See? This one has pumpkin-colored hair, but he looks exactly like Asugi... Saizou's son!” Miyako began tearing up.
“Oh Gods!” Rioci shrieked in horror.
“And that girl with the red hair... She looks like Severa's daughter with Keaton... Caeldori!” Miyako said as she screamed.
Sakura began to cry when she saw one of the other faces, a dark haired woman.
“Rhajat! What are you doing here?! Not my Rhajat!!” Sakura began bawling.
“Sakura! It's not her...” Rioci tried to assure her, holding Sakura in his arms.
“I don't want to be here anymore!” Sakura cried, “Not when they took Rhajat!”
“My... name... is not... Rhajat...” the woman hissed.
“Who are you?” Miyako asked.
“I... am Tharja... I once worshipped Gilbert and Justine... I thought they would get me out of a mundane life... They lied... They both did...” the woman replied.
“Tharja... Please forgive my sister, Sakura. She had a daughter with beautiful pink hair like hers that otherwise looked just like you. She saw your face and thought that Justine and Gilbert took her daughter as well.” Miyako explained.
“You even sound like Justine... I can tell you are not however.” Tharja sighed, “This cursed land. I want to just rot here and die. The pain engulfing this body could make a sane man a rabid animal by now... I was separated from my husband Libra, and my daughter, Noire.”
“We'll tell her if we see her again that you miss her.” Miyako assured her.
“Don't. She'll only cry knowing what really happened to the powerful witch named Tharja.” Tharja said, “I know you mean well. That's why you will never be Justine no matter how you speak with that pretty little voice of yours.”
“Tharja...” Miyako murmured.
“I pray to the Gods above now that someone puts me out of this misery... I am starting to sound like my pretty little pet, Libra now. What has happened to me, Miyako? Have I gone mad?” Tharja laughed.
“How do you know my name?” Miyako gasped.
“I heard your brother Rioci use it. Duh.” Tharja frowned, “Anyway, don't let me waste your time. You're not here for me, you're here for Virion, the Duke of Rosanne.”
“Tharja... Someday, I hope we can meet again, when you're no longer suffering.” Miyako said sadly.
“Miyako... Don't say stupid things like that. My suffering will end when Grima breaths its last breaths.” Tharja coughed.
“I understand.” Miyako looked back at Rioci.
As they moved deeper into the dungeon, Rioci, Sakura, and Miyako caught up with Princess Peach, Mario, and Alice as they found three pouches of flesh all in a circle.
“This is the deepest we'll go. Are you sure this isn't a trick made by Justine and Gilbert to trap us here?” Alice asked as she crossed her arms.
“I don't know. There aren't any Seru attacking us here despite the excessive amount of Mist here.” Mario observed.
“Well, if this is up to me, I would be warning everyone to leave as soon as trouble hits us.”
“Jus...tine?...”
Miyako shrieked as one of the pouches opened up, revealing a sky blue haired archer with a fancy cravat set on green fire.
“Who are you?!” Sakura shrieked, “Let me help you out of that fire!”
“Non, mademoiselle! This is the Hari of the Past sending me a message to you all!” Virion coughed.
“You're hurting... Please!” Sakura began to cry.
“My dear Sakura, do not worry. The pain I am feeling is not from the pleasantly warm sensation you call a fire. This pain is once again from Grima, and my own self heartbroken from all the suffering my wife Justine caused all the Ylissean Shepherds.”
“You must be the Duke of Rosanne. Tell me, what is this 'Hari' telling you exactly?” Alice asked.
“They are telling me of your pasts. They told me your name, and how you all came to be here. Long ago, you guys never knew the Mist would be a threat to your lives... Princess Peach, you and Mario...” Virion began to speak up.
“Yes?” Princess Peach asked.
“You never had a lot of threats that tackled multiple realms. Aside from the few realm-threatening situations you've come across, your only worry was Bowser.” Virion continued.
“How did you know that?” Mario asked.
“Hari also learned... that you have come across many people from other realms to guide you. Four of which are Muyoko, Cherry Nitori, Boss Editor and TNTtimelord. They all admire your romance, Dear Mario.”
“I see...” Mario gasped.
Miyako kept quiet as Virion's head turned towards her. It was obvious that Virion is blind and that this movement could severely hurt him, but she couldn't help but pause.
“Rioci and Miyako, the twin dragons that ended the Nohr-Hoshido War and brought the kingdom of Valla to its former glory. Despite your appearances revealing to be a sign of bad luck, everyone still reveres you, your family all adore you, and most importantly, you have went down in history as the heroes of your story. Even then, your realm came to a horrible end on the part of Justine and Gilbert.” Virion murmured.
“S-Sir...” Rioci gulped.
“Little Sakura and Princess Elise despite all this still stand by your side. Sakura lost Hoshido first, as the people of Valla are mercilessly.”
“And what about Gensokyo!” Alice piped up.
Virion's fire returned to a vibrant yellow hue rather than a green hue.
“Hari stopped giving me messages. Apparently this Hari of the Past can't look further out into the pasts of realms so far away from his reach. This sadly includes Gensokyo.” Virion replied as he let out a deep exhale.
“No way...” Alice frowned.
“I'm sorry, everyone. This Seru has been draining my energy for some time. I've only been able to stay sane because I know that someday, Lucina and Cynthia can finally meet their parents again in a better realm.” Virion said as he rested back on the flesh.
“So if that's the Duke of Rosanne, we can figure out what the concubines have to say next.” Mario explained.
“Oh Virion...” Sakura cried, “If only you didn't die if we pulled you out of here.”
“Don't worry about me...” Virion coughed, “I'm relieved you weren't messengers from Justine. That Miyako girl you brought with you however, sounded an awful lot like her. I'm just glad it was just Miyako though.”
“Forgive me, Virion...” Miyako said looking away.
“No! Don't ask for forgiveness. I'm just relieved I got to hear her voice again, especially a voice that sounded sane.” Virion laughed.
“Shall we go back and talk with her concubines?” Miyako asked.
“Yes... Please do, hear what they have to say.” Virion said before he went back to a state of sleep.
Miyako sighed. She turned to the next face over, Miyako gulped.
“I... I am not Justine. So please... Let me see your face.” Miyako began to speak.
“Miyako, that's not a good way to introduce yourself.” Mario crossed his arms.
“I know. I can tell from the warmth in your heart, Princess Miyako of Hoshido.”
The second pouch opened up, and there was a white haired sword master within the walls with dark armor on. He looked much older than Virion, but then again it could be due to the Seru that is draining him.
“Blue fire? That's an intense fire. Please, let me help you!” Sakura cried.
“Calm your staff hand, Princess Sakura. Ah... You remind me of a younger Say'ri, scared and confused of the world around her. But I have not awakened to reminisce about the past. I have come here to send a message to you from Hari of the Present.” the man coughed.
“Didn't we already talk to Hari?” Alice asked groaning.
“Hari has said...” the man continued, “That the Mist has taken many lives from both the realm of Rioci and Miyako, and the realm of Mario and Princess Peach. By sheer luck, you guys have met in the Mushroom Kingdom when the Mist is building up in that realm. With the kingdoms of Nohr, Hoshido, and Valla both destroyed as the morale of the armies, Rioci and Miyako are counting on more information on the former realm of Legaia. Evil has been rebuilding the Seru-Kai, but for what purpose you all don't know yet.”
“Wait, how do you know that?” Alice asked.
“Let me continue...” the man bellowed angrily, “Princess Peach, Mario. Bowser, a former enemy of your people has even come to your aid in getting rid of the Mist. This alliance you built has benefitted you as of right now, protecting your brother Luigi in the Mist as well as your friends.”
“And?” Alice asked.
“Miyako, Rioci, more and more you are learning of the realm of Legaia. Before you only had a glimmer of what Legaia once was, thanks to visitors from Conkram. You are paying attention to the events of the now though, learning more on what happened to Legaia.” the man said.
“I see.” Rioci said looking back at Miyako.
“Is Queen Minea alive and well?” Miyako asked.
“Unfortunately, yes... and no.” the man said, “She had relayed messages from her daughter Noa. She is however very alive and well. Muyoko has been following her story.”
“And what about Gensokyo? Is everyone okay?” Alice asked.
The man paused, as his blue flame turned into a bright yellow hue instead, “I'm afraid Hari can not reach that far into the present of that realm.”
“Sir!” Sakura cried.
“I am the one... named Yen'fay of Chon'sin...” the man coughed, “I apologize for not introducing myself to you guys sooner. I am happy to thank Hari for telling me of your arrival.”
“What happened to you?” Sakura cried.
“Even the most clever and intellegent of tacticians could not figure a proper strategy to get everyone out of Grima's tight grasp. Had Justine and Gilbert not listened to King Validar of Plegia... then perhaps I would have ended my relationship with them in better terms.” Yen'fay replied.
“Yen'fay...” Sakura ran into Rioci's arms to continue crying further, “I'm sorry I could not help you!”
“This isn't the time to worry about me. My time... I can tell it will end shortly. I pray for a day I can finally... rest in peace.” Yen'fay replied, taking another deep exhale.
“This means we're about to meet with the last concubine of Justine and the Hari of the Future.” Mario gulped.
“Are you afraid, Mario?” Rioci asked.
“Yeah... This fear in my gut. I probably shouldn't have it. I've dealt with danger before but something tells me that this Hari person is going to tell me something I'll fear worse than Luigi fears ghosts.” Mario murmured.
“Don't worry, Mario. No matter what happens, we're here for you.” Princess Peach explained.
“Thanks Princess. But that's not what I mean...” Mario murmured, “This fear, is something much worse than death. I can just feel it.”
Miyako turned to the last pouch.
“...I am the Dragon of Dawn, Princess and General of Hoshido, and now a scared mother and wife. Please, sir... Tell me... Will I ever see my husbands again?” Miyako asked.
The pouch opened up to a red flame, a man in it, a sword wielding hero with dark blue hair was there.
“I am Priam, descendant of the Hero of Dawn. I am relaying a message from the Hari of the Future.” the man chanted.
“Oh wow...” Princess Peach gasped.
“Do not worry, Miyako. You will be reunited with your loved ones, but be prepared for more hardships for you and Rioci that Princess Peach and Mario have to share with you all. You will depend more and more on the Ra-Seru, but their time will come to an end. Even they won't save you from the events that will transpire in the Mushroom Kingdom.” Priam explained.
“And Bowser?” Mario asked.
“Bowser will be an ally to you even when the Mist has cleared. But be careful. Bowser has shadows following him wherever he goes. One of these shadows Alice will cast a light on. Her name is Yuuka.” Priam continued.
“Oh dear. If I am involved, that means Hari can at least see into the future and see me returning to Gensokyo, right?” Alice asked.
“I am sorry...” Priam said as his red flame turned a bright yellow hue, “but Hari could not reach far into the future of Gensokyo. It is too far away for them.”
“Is there any other message? What about the future of Grima?” Princess Peach asked.
“Now that is a very specific question... Hari told us that Grima will be destroyed very shortly.” Priam said, “It is a good thing that you all can leave Ylisstol in time.”
“Wait, what?” Princess Peach gasped.
“You have plenty of time to leave.” Priam said, “But you need to leave soon, or else you'll be caught in the fire. Go! Rescue the others.”
“R-right!” Mario gulped.
“Priam... Could I douse that fire on you at least?” Sakura asked.
“No... that will only heal Grima. Let it begin to die.” Priam snapped.
“Oh!” Sakura wept.
“I'm... sorry... It's hard for me to keep my temper in this Gods-forsaken place.” Priam explained.
Mario looked at each and every person.
“Let's reunite with Owain and the others.” Mario explained.
“Right.” Rioci and Miyako nodded.
“Gensokyo is far away from the Mist... Chances are that Gensokyo is staying the same regardless if we are around or not...” Alice murmured to herself melancholic.
As Mario and the others walked up the stairs, they saw Owain and Elise bidding Lissa and Lon'qu adieu.
“They said they can just feel that today is the day Grima will die.” Ophelia said, but she tilted her head puzzled, “But I don't know what that means and why they sound... relieved and depressed about it at the same time.”
“It was like zey were saying zeir last good-bye to Owain et Elise, giving zem zeir blessings et praising Ophelia to growing up into a fine woman despite confusing times.” Monsieur Broque said, “Even though they smiled, there was a mix of sadness and joy in their voice.”
“I wonder if anyone else is feeling that way.” Mario asked.
“Hari told Priam we have to get out of Ylisstol, so we should do that first.” Princess Peach asked.
“Yeah, maybe if Grima is destroyed, we can see everyone happy again!” Princess Elise made a cheerful grin.
“We'll have to see what happens.” Rioci sighed.
As Mario and the others got out of Ylisstol, they turned and gasped. They saw what looked like Justine and Gilbert riding the same monster that was destroying the gates to Princess Peach's castle.
“What the...” Mario gasped in horror.
“Pathetic. The Shepherds of Ylisse told them everything!” Gilbert snarled.
“Juggernaut, get rid of this eyesore of a kingdom once and for all. We'll rebuild Grima with the Seru Brides we captured.” Justine commanded, pointing her hand at the Grima-engulfed Ylisse.
The horrifying part of it all is that the same sounds came with hog-like squealing before it's mouth laser shot over Grima, the dragon going aflame. The horror of it all was that no matter how large the dragon was, nothing was left of Ylisstol nor of Grima. Not even the dungeon that held Virion and the others was left. It was as if someone destroyed a whole civilization. There weren't any ruins either.
“It's like they wiped Ylisstol off the face of the map...” Princess Peach gasped.
Owain collapsed into tears.
Elise comforted Owain in her arms, as Owain's cries echoed throughout the emptiness of what was once Ylisstol. Rioci and Miyako turned away. Not even Monsieur Broque spoke up as the Mist continued to engulf the blank slate made out of Grima and Ylisstol.
Yukimura awoke in a dark room, and the screaming of torture victims.
He looked around the room. He sighed. Everyone was in one piece. Zola and Izana were in one corner with him, while Niles, Scarlet, Charlotte, and Peri were in the other corner. Dwyer and Shigure were in a third corner.
“Where are we?” Yukimura thought to himself, eyes looking across the room for something off in the room. He then noticed it right away after observing Zola. His hat... It didn't look like it belonged to him at all. Yukimura looked at himself at a mirror up above him. They were all in strange clothes. They were constricting, almost form-fitting clothes. Yukimura could barely breath in it, let alone budge.
“Bring out the first Seru Bride.” a voice beckoned.
He turned. A man, similar in appearance to Zeto came in, though this time he was much heavier than Zeto as well as wearing teal rather than red. He grabbed Shigure.
“Ngh... Shigure?” Dwyer awoke from the movement.
“Now, now, you're next.” the man grinned as Zeto came in and carried Dwyer next.
“Huh? Wait! What is this?! Someone? Anyone?!” Shigure gasped.
“Knock them out!” a voice yelled from the distance.
Yukimura gasped. The texture of their outfits looked like stone, but it was as if someone made a bridal dress out of it. He looked down at himself. He squirmed.
“Justine and Gilbert wanted to bring forth another Juggernaut. We'll give them that same Juggernaut.” the man laughed with Zeto.
“Dohati, you jest. Remember, we have to call it 'Grima II'.” Zeto said grinning.
“Such a shame they pushed off the younger members away. They could have lived happily together in the serenity of the Mist.”
As Dohati and Zeto's voices faded, Yukimura remembered exactly what happened.
Ame was climbing up a tree in the Toad Village. He was always enjoying playing chase with family, and today it was Yukimura's turn.
“Papa Yuki! Try to catch me!” Ame laughed.
“Ame! You're going to get yourself hurt up there!” Yukimura shrieked scared for Ame's life.
“C'mon Papa! It's easy!” Ame laughed, climbing up a branch.
“Ame, don't you jump now! Your mother would be very upset!” Yukimura warned him with a stern voice.
“Wheee!” Ame laughed. Yukimura screamed as he tried to catch Ame.
“Ame!” Yukimura scolded. Ame laughed until he saw the concerned glare in his eyes. He then went quiet.
“I'm sorry, Ame. I know you're careful but there some days I worry we'll never see each other again.” Yukimura explained to his son with a soft voice, his expression also softening.
“Papa Yuki worries a lot. He's just like Puera.” Ame pouted, “Don't worry Papa. I won't worry you anymore.”
Yukimura smiled.
“Ame looks an awful lot like Yukimura...” a female Toad whispered, “Just look at how they hold their ponytails together.”
“Yeah...” murmured Wendy, “but Ame doesn't wear glasses or have any stubble for a beard.”
“He's got his hair color... and skin-tone too. I wonder if people will tell them apart when he gets older.” the female Toad smiled.
“Don't bet on it! Ame has pink eyes, and Yukimura doesn't look like the type to enjoy climbing trees and acting like a wild animal!” Wendy pouted, crossing her arms.
A few minutes later, someone let out a scream, as just up in the sky, a flight of Wind-based Seru flew from the skies. Yukimura was puzzled. The Seru would have been docile by now, the Mist is no longer in the Toad Village. That's when he recognized Zeto again.
“Where are your Ra-Seru heroes now?” Zeto laughed.
“Ame, let's go inside. Now.” Yukimura said as he latched onto his son tightly.
“Papa?” Ame blinked.
As Yukimura tried to run inside, he saw that the Seru already grabbed him.
“AHHH!” Ame shrieked.
He saw that unsurprisingly he wasn't alone in this capture. He turned. Zola was latching onto Puera, Izana Hotaru... and Rioci's wives and Niles were holding onto their children tightly.
“Ame...” Yukimura cried, “I'm... sorry...”
He was noticing what was going on. He'd rather Ame not be in his arms immediately at this point.
As Yukimura let go of Ame, Zola shrieked.
“Yukimura! What are you doing?!”
“This isn't right. I don't know what Zeto's plan with us is, but we shouldn't involve our children in this!” Yukimura explained.
Zola let go of Puera, getting the picture of what Yukimura was saying and Izana followed suit. It was inevitable, but Rioci's spouses eventually dropped their children as well. Surprisingly, they all dropped at the same spot... A decaying tree in Dimble Woods where four other humanoids seemed to be hiding out in.
“Please... Whoever you are... Please protect him...” Yukimura wept.
“Ngh. Those two resisted severely. I think it's best to make them submit before we continue with letting our new Juggernaut absorb the energy of these lovely faces.” Zeto frowned.
Dohati gave Yukimura a menacing glance, “Now, you're faithful to your wife despite the other men she's slept with in the past. Let's see if you'll be just as faithful to your new head of the house.”
Yukimura spat in Dohati's face. Dohati scowled.
“You should have dropped us to our deaths.” Yukimura said coldly.
“Ah... I remember your description, the former tactician of the great Hoshido kingdom, a worthy husband to the Princess of Hoshido as well. But don't worry. Life with your new general will be a splendid one. You don't even have to think. We'll make sure of it.” Dohati said as he slapped Yukimura.
“Muyoko!” Tabitha shrieked back at the Mushroom Kingdom meanwhile as he ran up towards Muyoko and Luigi.
“We know. Raynof from Legaia 2 popped up like an unwanted pimple. And like the acne problem we face, he's more than likely coming back.” Muyoko explained.
“We should also find Yukimura and the others.” Vivian explained, “After all, Miyako and Rioci will be upset.”
“I have an idea. We'll lure Raynof in with his new Seru monster in this town.” Shelly explained.
“What? That's a terrible idea!” Tabitha snapped.
“Well, you don't have to like it.” Shelly frowned.
“Who's going to be the guinea pig? Muyoko asked.
“Now that is a good question...” Phoebe said as she dressed like what looked like broccoli.
“Huh? What are you doing, Phoebe?!” Tabitha shrieked, “You're dressed like a Genesis Tree!”
“Well, correction: It's Broccoli.” Phoebe said.
“Let someone else dress up as Broccoli...” a voice beckoned.
Everyone turned and gasped.
“Camilla!” Muyoko shrieked.
“But why?” Shelly asked worried.
“I have lost my home... my husband... my daughter... A spring flower like Phoebe doesn't deserve to sacrifice herself to the Gods...” Camilla explained as she turned away coldly.
“Aunt Camilla, this is dangerous, even for you. Please! I don't want to lose you here either!” Nina came in and hugged her.
“Aww, I don't want to lose you too...” Camilla said as her nieces ran in to hug her.
“Lady Miyako told us of how beautiful you are. Don't sacrifice your beauty over something like this.” Puera said as she hugged her as well. Hotaru and Ame also came in for the hug.
“Awww, how sweet.” a laugh echoed throughout Toad Village.
Something crawled, a green three legged creature danced closer, “But there is no need to sacrifice yourself for Brave Raynof!”
“All hail Brave Raynof! All hail Raynof the Brave!” something echoed in the plains.
The creature roared. It was time for another battle.
“Crap!” Muyoko roared, “He's riding Berserker! Guys, be careful!” Muyoko explained.
“Right...” Peasley nodded.
“Wait. We heard Raynof's voice, but I haven't seen him anywhere!” Goombella shrieked.
“It's because Raynof has fused with the evil Seru known as Berserker. You should do your best to avoid its breath attacks.” Palma explained.
“And now things are really getting interesting...” Bowser grinned.
The battle was odd, Muyoko dodged each attack, but when it wasn't perfect, her legs were beginning to rot out. Luigi was freaking out.
“Muyoko! Stay still!” Luigi cried.
“It's okay Luigi. Give her some Tonic Water!” Starlow explained.
“Right.” Luigi nodded.
The Tonic Water healed Muyoko's rot, but it was still bad.
“We're here!” Muyoko said as she used Thunder Punch on Berserker again.
“Wait!” Vivian paused.
“What is it?” Muyoko asked.
“I caught Nighto earlier when we were in Dimble Woods. Let's see if Nighto would do anything.” Vivian said. She raised her arms as Meta emitted a red light. What came out of the ground was a one eyed blue and purple monster in a strange shell. As it squeaked, it emitted a strange vibration. Berserker screamed as did Raynof.
“Stop! I beg you!!” Raynof cried.
It was too late, by the time the vibrations ended, Berserker and Raynof collapsed onto the ground.
“Muyoko, that was close...” Ozma murmured.
“I know...” Muyoko coughed.
“How did you know to use Nighto?” Meta asked Vivian.
“Nighto had Hell's Music. It's a sound most Seru hate.” Vivian explained, “The Seru are reactionary... Not all of them, but if Seru react to the Mist, then Seru can react to music that most humans wouldn't even hear.”
“Ah...” Peasley relieved.
“It's such a shame, I died. Then you all wouldn't find out that Yukimura and the others are being fed to Grima in Plegia!”
Everyone turned to where Berserker once stood. Muyoko crossed her arms.
“Really now?” Tabitha asked.
The villagers looked over the corpse of Berserker.
“Oh...” Raynof frowned before he died.
“Dumbass shouldn't let out secrets before his last breath.” Matt laughed.
“Well, seeing they're in Plegia, I know that Mario and Princess Peach are more than likely on their way there with Owain.” Muyoko explained.
“We should go to Plegia. We may have a chance to save them.” Bowser explained.
“Wait, you're worried?” Luigi asked.
“Well yeah, not only is the Princess putting herself in danger, but Alice might die! There's no way we're gonna lose Alice.” Bowser yelled.
Owain glared at the Plegian castle right in front of them.
“Grima stands... My sword hand twitches.” Owain hissed.
“Owain, what they did to Ylisstol... Don't be reckless because of it!” Elise shrieked.
“Elise, listen to me. Owain is pissed. I would be too. His home, his family, his own memories of those things... All of them were destroyed. And they're going to do something terrible to my husbands... Rioci's spouses... and Dwyer and Shigure as well! Azura's legacy is going to be destroyed. My memories of Jakob are still here, but I can't reminisce with them about him anymore!” Miyako explained.
“Miyako... We know...” Sakura said.
“Hey. You guys can't do this alone.” Muyoko declared.
“Mario! How was the search?” Luigi asked.
“Well, we can confirm one thing. Plegia holds the answers.” Mario said looking up at the sky.
“Let's go in there.” Muyoko declared.
Muyoko and the others ran inside the dark laboratory in the cellars. Miyako and Rioci noticed something strange as they moved down there.
“Bridal wear?” Muyoko gasped.
“This is humiliating for them...” Rioci frowned.
“Wait, Yukimura!” Miyako cried. They saw Justine and Gilbert were preparing Yukimura.
“His hair is such a beautiful color...” Justine laughed, “I can see why he's a keeper. I hope Grima will love him as much as you did.”
Miyako flinched as Justine licked Yukimura's cheek. Yukimura oddly enough didn't react to Justine.
“Everyone, we'll take care of Justine and Gilbert!” Muyoko yelled.
“What?” Miyako shrieked, “Did you see what she did?!”
“I know, but these look like Sim-Seru possessed idgits. I don't want you to die!” Luigi said as he prepared himself.
“Wait! Before we do that...” Terra murmured in Luigi's hands. The Ra-Seru have lightened up, the lights they emitted went towards Yukimura, whose seemed to awaken from a daze, his Seru Bridal Dress slowly disappearing.
“M-Miyako?! Miyako!!” Yukimura gasped.
He ran to Miyako and hugged her.
“Yukimura! Thank Gods...” Rioci said as he ran to hug him.
“No... You Ra-Seru Warriors are not supposed to be here. You should have surrendered sweetly to Raynof.” Gilbert roared.
He and Justine then danced together, fusing into a strange horror.
Muyoko and the others read over their blocks 'Grima'.
“You gotta be kidding me!” Luigi groaned.
Miyako and the others were getting the others out of the Seru Bride.
“Agh... Maybe I'll use Kemaro?” Muyoko asked.
“We shouldn't be depending on other Seru Magic!” Ozma shrieked.
“Ah...” Muyoko said.
“We'll just have to fight.” Vivian said.
The fight lasted a couple moments of time, as Bowser escorted each person down, and each person waking up as if unaware of what was happening to them before. First up was Zola.
“Ngh... That Dohati bastard... What did he do to us?!” Zola hissed, holding his head up.
“AGH!” Bowser yelled, closing his eyes at the sight of a slightly undressed Zola.
“Nice to see you too, you overgrown reptile.” Zola huffed angrily.
“Zola!” Miyako ran up to hug him.
“Ah! Lady Miyako. It's so good to see you too. How did you happen to find us?” Zola asked.
“Plegia itself is a Mist Generator for this realm. I noticed through the strange clouds puffing outward and moving more and more towards the ground like a fog.” Rioci explained.
“Miyako... I did something terrible on the way here. I dropped Puera when they grabbed us...” Zola looked away upset.
“Don't worry. Muyoko and the others saved them. Luigi notified the Princess after they found them and brought the second Genesis Tree to life in Dimble Woods.” Miyako said, “But I'm just glad you're alive too!”
Miyako hugged Zola tightly.
Bowser helped Izana down next. Izana awoke as he saw Miyako again.
“Well, well, well. Aren't you a little too short to be a child of Grima?” Izana said with a cheeky grin on his face.
Bowser turned away.
“Izana!” Miyako shrieked, “I'm so glad you're alive!”
“Well, of course I'm alive silly! You came to the rescue! Ah, this is just like old times. I remember when Zola locked me up like this and disguised as me to get to you!” Izana said looking at Zola.
“Urk!” Zola reacted almost in shame.
“Glad to see how Zola felt during that time. In reality we were both scared out of our wits. Our bodies moved against our will and we both were knocked unconscious! Hopefully this time you don't fall in love with our captor this time either.” Izana cheerfully brushed it off, hugging Zola.
“Aren't you upset that they would have taken Hotaru as well?” Rioci asked concerned.
“Well, yeah but as soon as I saw Yukimura drop Ame down, I was ready to do the same. Though, it looked like Zeto was counting on us doing such a thing.” Izana pondered, “I wonder why they all landed in the same location with the same four faces?”
“They were going to be eaten by a Seru down there if it wasn't for Muyoko and the others.” Rioci replied.
Next up was Niles. Niles was waking up, with his one eye opening up to Rioci helping Niles down gently.
“Well you acted quickly. I hope you're just as quick when that dragon's on a rampage.” Niles said glaring back at Grima.
“Niles... Oh thank the Gods.” Rioci cried.
“I'm glad you became the knight in shining armor in this story.” Niles said, ruffling Rioci's hair.
“Yay! Niles!” Elise giggled as she joined the group hug.
“Now listen, next time I don't chicken out. There were worst things that happened in the past but I don't want to be that same situation again. Being unable to run away physically is just as bad as emotionally.” Niles turned away.
“Niles...” Rioci hugged Niles.
“Now c'mon. The girls are going to be just as upset they would have lost their mothers. Hurry before Grima gets to them.” Niles ushered Rioci to Bowser rescuing Scarlet.
As he did so Scarlet unsurprisingly punched Bowser.
“OW!!” Bowser groaned.
“I thought you were Grima...” Scarlet replied, “Or one of those Seru-Mist worshiping creeps!”
“Scarlet!” Rioci and Miyako cried in unison.
“Hey, Rioci! Thank Gods...” Scarlet said as she hugged them both, “I didn't like how those rocks I was stuck wearing looked on me. Glad to finally be out of that shell.”
“That hurt, lady!” Bowser roared.
“Don't lean so close to me, idiot!” Scarlet snapped back.
“The others!” Sakura cried.
Bowser pulled Peri out next.
“...I could have eviscerated you all...” Peri groaned.
“Peri! Don't worry, it's me!” Rioci explained.
Peri began to cry, “Rioci, it was scary!”
“I know, Peri...” Rioci replied, whispering to Peri patiently.
“Usually the armor I wear is heavy, but that's because it's built to protect me! That dress was made to kill me, Rioci! I hate it!” Peri sobbed.
“It's okay honey. I hate the outfit as well.” Rioci smiled, relieved Peri was herself.
“Don't worry, Rioci. I'll defend myself again, so that way I don't have to depend on you!” Peri snapped back to her cheerfulness.
“That's a nice thought to have, but Peri. Sometimes it's okay to cry for help.” Rioci said as he helped Peri down.
The last spouse... Charlotte.
Bowser helped her out, but Charlotte was blushing.
“Oh Rioci! I was so frightened!” Charlotte gasped, “I was worried those big hands of that creepy old man were going to get me! I fainted from the shock and...”
“Are you sure you weren't resisting just a little bit?” Niles asked, raising a brow.
“Of course I was resisting!” Charlotte hissed, “But something hit me in the process, and that's why I'm awake now!”
“Oh Charlotte, I'm just relieved to see you alive and well...” Rioci said coming in to kiss Charlotte.
“And what happened to Portia? Aren't you worried for her too?!” Charlotte pushed Rioci off now concerned about her daughter.
“Don't worry, Charlotte.” Bowser laughed, “I carried her down as well. She was scared and confused, but she was safe in my arms.”
Charlotte gave Bowser a cold glare.
“We should get Shigure and Dwyer out next.” Princess Peach said.
“Agreed.” Yukimura said, “I saw them struggle the most before Dohati knocked me out.”
“They were first?” Charlotte pouted.
“Alright. Here goes...” Bowser gulped.
Shigure and Dwyer were pulled out together by Bowser and Jedo. Shigure and Dwyer both coughed.
“Lady Miyako... Lord Rioci...” Dwyer looked up as he hugged the both of them.
“We thought we were dead!” Shigure cried, “Dohati and Zeto grabbed us both, telling us about the plans for reviving a second Juggernaut.”
“We figured that was their plan.” Mario scowled.
“We need to shut down the machine before they actually fully activate. What's worse is that this machine is also a Mist Generator.” Shigure shrieked.
“Don't you mean what's better? With the Mist Generator destroyed, this realm would become Mist free!” Dwyer replied.
Shigure gave Dwyer a noogie as they both laughed.
“That's fine and dandy once Luigi and his team defeat Grima!” Mario turned towards the brawl.
But with the fight, Muyoko fainted at least once, with Luigi reviving her with a 1-Up Mushroom as she moved back up. She tried again to punch Grima with an Explosive Fist.
Vivian used Fire Blow combined with her Fiery Jinx attack. However, Goombella's attacks did the most damage, leaving Justine and Gilbert a strange mess.
It was taking long for the Ra-Seru to charge a magic attack, each 1-Up Mushroom used, each time a Mushroom was used to heal, what Nuts were used to heal as well... Muyoko then remembered that two Genesis Trees were planted, meaning Justine and Gilbert must have grown stronger in the process. Muyoko sighed. She wasn't getting anywhere with Justine and Gilbert without the abilities of Seru Magic, it looked like at first.
“Kemaro...” Muyoko whimpered.
Ozma groaned, “Muyoko, I told you, we can't depend on Kemaro's abilities.”
“I know, but... we weren't able to do much damage to it.” Muyoko frowned looking at Grima.
“I understand. Get a snack before we activate Kemaro's abilities.” Ozma sighed.
Muyoko took a swig of some Peach Faygo she somehow found in the castle as well as some Flaming Hot Funyuns she bought at the shop. Afterwards, she felt energized and ready to activate Kemaro.
Peasley stabbed Grima hard, but the piercing damage was insignificant.
“Muyoko! Now's the chance!” Peasley cried out.
“Huh? Peasley?” Muyoko blinked confused.
“Listen! Mule's been telling me of Ozma's plan. We can combine our energy and we can all use Kemaro's attack on it. Are you ready to get in sync?” Peasley asked.
Muyoko nodded, “Alright then. Let's do this!”
They chanted something together, and a ball of energy lit up. Grima turned as a giant rock pillar taller than the horrified beast was appeared. As it happened, it heard the snarls of a creature. The creature jumped down from the pillar unscathed from the gravity. It was small compared to Grima, a canid creature that reached Mario's height. He opened his mouth as a surprisingly huge needle struck out of it. As it shot out, Grima was pierced through, the dragon finally defeated.
Alice gasped. The twins separated out of the unholy fusion. As they did, Justine and Gilbert gasped as if they woke out of a daze as well.
“I saw... Everything...” Gilbert coughed as he was breathing dying breaths.
“Me too... I can't believe we did those horrible things to our own people...” Justine said looking at Gilbert.
“We'll reunite with them in the afterlife...” Gilbert looked back at Justine.
“I hope they can forgive us... for everything...” Justine laughed.
The both of them turned to dust.
“Everyone. Now is our chance to destroy the Mist Generator in Plegia! Hurry! Before Zeto and Dohati get here!” Meta exclaimed.
Everyone wearing a Ra-Seru, including Monsieur Broque lifted their arms as the Ra-Seru on their bodies summoned a beautiful light. Everyone prayed together as the Mist Generator began to rust over. Muyoko and the others gasped. The Mist Generator was destroyed from the inside out.
“Hey.” Peasley said worried.
“What's up Peasley?” Luigi asked.
“I hope this wasn't a trick made by Zeto and Dohati to destroy one of the Genesis Trees.” Peasley said.
“We should go check back at the Toad Village.” Mule said worried.
Everyone nodded as they left the castle of Plegia. After they left, what looked like a Ra-Seru rose up looking confused. It was destroyed also from the inside out.
“Papa Zola!” Puera cried out, racing the other children to hug him.
“My sweet child! I'm so glad Luigi and Bowser rescued you!” Zola twirled Puera about.
“We should have a party to celebrate our first victory with those Mist worshiping freaks of nature!” Izana smiled.
“I agree with Papa Izana!” Hotaru smiled.
“There's another announcement Mama has to make too.” Yukimura said as he hugged Miyako.
“What is it?” Ame asked.
“Izana, you might need to hold Zola up for this one.” Miyako explained.
“Huh? Why is that?” Zola said puzzled.
“Well, Zola, she's having another baby, and we just got the test results... You're the father.” Yukimura replied.
“This is the first child not to be born in Hoshido. You should be happy!” Izana said.
Zola fainted in Izana's arms.
“Papa? Papa!” Puera cried.
Princess Peach laughed, “I'm so happy that Zola is at least alive to know he'll be a father again.”
“Yeah, and the fact the baby might be born during a difficult time must be something they're used to by now.” Mario crossed his arms.
“What do you think, Mario. Should I be a madrina?” Princess Peach asked.
“What?! You already are uncomfortable with being a mom! What makes you think being a madrina will be any different?” Mario asked back alarmed by the question.
“Aww, Mario. They'll have a padrino that'll help me!” Princess Peach said snuggling Mario.
“Justine and Gilbert are dead. Our Mist Generator in the realm of the Sleeping Grima is destroyed. This is not a good sign.” Songi scowled, “I thought Raynof would distract them long enough.”
“I did too,” Yuuka giggled, “but we've grown stronger together, Songi. Look. The Second Genesis Tree awakened.”
Songi couldn't help but look back at the Sim Serus on their arms.
“Zeto and Dohati should try to kill them next. I am sure it makes for good punishment for removing a Mist Generator off of one realm if they aren't sitting on their butts.” Songi said.
“Maybe next time we shouldn't involve the twin dragons of Nohr and Hoshido.” Yuuka replied, “Maybe next time we actually target Princess Peach again.”
“That's too cliché.” Songi laughed, “You're supposed to be the more creative one, we should think of something!”
“Maybe we sick Elliot and Marienne on them already...” Yuuka said, “That might add some extra damage.”
“Now that's much better.” Songi laughed, “But after Zeto and Dohati show them what not to do first.”
TO BE CONTINUED...