Chapter Text
The evening emerged at the Mushroom Kingdom with the half moon rising atop the night sky as the magnificent castle shimmered like the stars. The masked ball had begun upon the presence of its hostess, Princess Peach. Extinguished guests, including those from the kingdom and beyond, gathered to celebrate the festivity. The castle crystallized the white and pink porcelain ground of the ballroom and its pastel walls. Numerous vases stood in each corner filled with fresh roses to scent the entire room. The mural of Peach’s self-portrait whilst the ceiling had angels and cupids crowded themselves from the clouds to watch below a night of enjoyment. Violin strings echoed loudly across the room, creating an elegant vibe through guests’ ears as they waltzed at the center. Everything dressed accordingly, beautifully designed for the spring season as everyone wore colorful masks to give an anonymous touch to each other’s presence.
Daisy stood at the sidelines once she arrived; Peach was still welcoming more company at her throne with Toadsworth at her right side. Richter was arriving late, having promised to share a dance with the Princess of Sarasaland. Single beardless young men eyed on the headstrong ruler dressed in yellow champagne gown with a mask and perfumed in daisies. The first bachelor to bravely approach her was the well-built and handsome Sir Langdon Olson. It was his third dance after Lady Williams and wandered for a new one, catching the sight of Daisy as soon as she entered. Fixing his mustache in interest, he held his hand out to her as a silent request for a dance. She curtseyed, accepting him as her first and without hesitation, he encircled his hand to her waist, guiding her to the floor.
“Thou look lovely tonight, my lady. You’ve come at a good time,” he complimented with an endearing smile to charm the young princess.
As he led her into the crowd of dancers, Daisy rested her hand onto his shoulder and her feet in orange slippers swiftly and rhythmically moved in tune to the music. She was the precise belle of the ball and a fair dancer—Peach is just as an equal of course. Looking over the man’s shoulder, she took notice of Princess Rosalina, with a golden Luma beside her, and Waluigi who had been courting her for months. Dressed in a purple suit with a Harley quin design mask, the tall man offers a bouquet of white carnations as his latest gift for the princess of Galaxies. Although Daisy knows she will reject him once again, she can tell that the maiden had been slowly giving in to his advances. He might’ve been a boastful, ill-tempered man who’s no stranger to cheating but it may be his comical and nonsensical nature that seem to enchant her. If Wario was able to catch a dame like Mona, then there was a chance for Waluigi. At another area, she caught the sight of Cranky Kong sitting at a comfortable couch, observing Donkey Kong, his grandson, and Diddy Kong, his great-grandson, feasting on a table of goodies. He simply shrugged and helped himself with a banana.
Nearby, she saw the Mario brothers and the Belmonts together. Mario was wearing his usual red themed outfit with a black bow tie and his trademark hat replaced with a golden roman styled mask. Luigi, however, surprised her, considering he wasn’t in a green tailored outfit. Instead, he favored a white one with a crown of Orange Blossoms adorned on his head and rose gold crystal mask. Simon had a more knightly appearance, wearing a red armor decorated with yellow engravings and pearls, shoulder plates, black trousers, long boots and iron gloves. His Venetian mask gave an ancient form to the famous vampire hunter. Richter wore his aristocratic uniform with brown gloves and a Venetian mask, like Simon except blue and silver, to match the color scheme. Never would she have thought he’d put those clothes again.
Observing that Daisy was staring at a certain direction outside of the crowd, the man asked, “Where do you want to be taken?”
“There, please,” Daisy answered, pointing to where her friends are.
And Olson began waltzing with measured steps towards her friends, cruising through the crowd while saying, Excuse us or pardon us. Steering through a sea of lace, tulle, and ribbon, he carefully had Daisy take sharp rounds so that her slim ankles were exposed to view and her train floated out like a dandelion dancing in a windy valley. The bachelor bowed, set his suit straight and gave Daisy his arm to conduct her to Mario and the others before departing. Up close, Mario presented himself like the hero he was praised in the Mushroom Kingdom meanwhile Luigi was a fragile wallflower, commenting his usual status as his brother’s shadow. Richter, concealing his disdain of his outfit, greeted the princess with a kiss on her hand.
“I thought you wouldn’t make it,” Daisy said.
“Sorry, princess. There was a last-minute call from Simon I had to take care of,” Richter explained, glancing over at the blonde man who rolled his eyes.
“The party looks amazing. She really outdone herself,” Mario complimented the scenery.
“Just wait until the fireworks,” Daisy anticipated. She had donated additional fireworks from her kingdom in preparation for the upcoming show.
“I’m happy you’re feeling relaxed,” said Princess Peach as she approached the group. She was dressed in a cherry pink Off the Shoulder gown, her sunshine hair tied up in a bun and her tiara upgraded to a Cartier fashion. Her mask had a fluffy pink feather on the left side which didn’t shy away her blue eyes.
“Did you finish greeting the guests already?” Luigi asked.
“For a while after chatting with Queen Bean and Prince Peasley. I figured giving Toadsworth some personal time to catch up with Lady Lima,” Peach spoke.
“Well, to get things started,” Mario said, fixing his bow tie before extending his hand to the Princess of the Mushroom Kingdom. “Shall we dance, your highness?”
“Of course,” Peach smiled, painting rosy tint on her cheeks as she took the eldest brother hand. The group watched them descend into the dance floor with other dancers shifting to the side to make a pathway for the couple.
“Speaking of which,” Daisy cleared her throat to get the young Belmont’s attention. Richter only smirked, allowing the Princess of Sarasaland to haul him towards the crowd. Luigi couldn’t help but chuckle; she was waiting for this moment to come since the ceremony was announced.
“Would you like to dance, Luigi?” Simon asked.
“Oh, um, sure,” the youngest Mario brother responded.
Approaching the castle not far away, a steampunk wagon trailed from the direction the Dark Lands hailed from. It was as menacing as the shadows and unpleasant as the black volcanos that erupt ashes and hot lava. Driving the carriage was a Koopa soldier in a copper and yellow uniform with a top hat useful to disclose his identity. Inside, it contained Bowser, the King of Koopas, bearing a costume reminiscent of a character from Edgar Allan Poe, a red and black suit and his mask was that of a fire demon ram menacing as his size and he wore it well. Next to him was Kamek, his right-hand man and most trusted advisor. Smart and resourceful, his plague doctor costume seemed fitting to complement his boss as well as his wizardry abilities. Two other Koopas who had joined them were outfitted in black and red joker complete with white masks adorned in spades and clover designs.
It wasn’t at all surprising that Bowser received an invitation regardless of how many times he kidnapped the kingdom’s monarch and his battles with Mario, usually ending in defeat. Princess Peach was a forgiving individual, too pure to hold onto grudges and all the King could do was pity her bad judgement of character. Of course, he was going to take advantage of this situation, planning a siege in the kingdom to capture the Princess and the castle’s Super Star. Especially when that pestering Mario humiliated him by sending him below the pool of lava during their fight.
“Are you feeling ill, your majesty?” Kamek asked. He was a short man compared to the gigantic royal, fixing his round glasses as he held his staff down like a cane. “You have been quiet throughout the travel.”
“I’m fine,” Bowser reassured his assistant. He wasn’t much concerned of the heroic Mario or the Belmonts, despite having researched about the latter’s exploits. In honesty, it was these kinds of parties he detested, boring and tedious. Even if he wasn’t the most liked individual in the planet, he wouldn’t bother conjuring festivities like these. Though it wouldn’t hurt to look at the fireworks, reminding him of his son who was happily dreaming at the hour.
“Every soldier is stationed outside the perimeter of the castle. They would strike at your command, your highness.”
The other Koopas nodded obediently whether it was for fear or because they genuinely felt that way for their boss.
“Perfect,” he said as he stared out the window to see the castle up ahead. Past him was an everlasting field which surrounds the kingdom. In daylight, it looked like an ocean of green driving its waves at whoever walks down the dirt trails to the castle. But at night, when Bowser witnessed it, it was as if he was staring at the actual sea in a beachside. Each tree they crossed by was a silhouette running across to keep up with the speed of the wagon.
Once the carriage stopped at the entrance of the castle, Bowser was the first to exit after clearing his throat and fixing his mask. With Kamek and the other two following him, Bowser showed the guard his invitation who was overseeing any incoming guests and proceeded to enter the ballroom. The other guards in the hallways were struck with fear and distress, knowing that the King of Koopas was at their presence. His hair, short and sleek at the time, red as the fire in his breath, muscled which shaped his arms and abs through his clothes. His humanlike features blend with green scales of a dragon with his curved, ivory horns blending well with his mask and pointy long ears decorated in black earrings.
When they started walking down the stairs, Bowser inspected the surroundings quietly for signs of Mario, whom he caught mingling with the Princess and the Bean royal family. Richter Belmont, the youngest of the vampire hunter family, was with Princess Daisy and Rosalina by the entrees section. He couldn’t make out where Simon was, signaling to Kamek to keep a close watch on that one. As soon as the duo merged with the crowd, they departed without trying to create commotion. Although Bowser’s reputation was far well known, with guests avoiding his attendance, showing the same exact concern as the guards have. In silence and blending, he watched the dancers waltzing with the music and listened to spectators beside him wallow with gossip or comments to pass the time.
Among the dancers, as Bowser distinguished, was a young man donning a white suit with silver trim. Orange Blossoms roses filled a crown on his head with a mask to veil his identity. The fiery haired King was out of breath with his heated pointy ears flourished in pink hues and his tan skin scorching regardless of being in extreme body heat a hundred percent. His heart scatters its echoes across his body to stare at the man’s attributes that spoke higher than the brighter heavens and more glorious than the chandelier. His stomach bursts monarchs freed from spider webs—long forgotten and wished only to fly—and the color of moonlight kissed the man’s porcelain skin. His brown hair and impressive mustache interweaved with the crown appeared him to be of a royal figure like the princesses. The young man’s sapphire eyes noted his admirer; his fluttering eyelashes unveiled like curtains and Bowser greeted him with a gentle smile only saved for his son. The young man’s dancing partner was Simon Belmont, swaying with him across the floor. The white prince’s patience measured the flow of the river and ballerina’s feet touched the surface with ease.
“Who is he? The one wearing in white?” Bowser asked a wealthy gentleman next to him.
“I don’t know, sir. I’m sorry,” the gentleman shrugged.
To not be recognized in a crowd, let alone in Peach’s domain, Bowser scoffed at the notion that the prince’s identity could remain a mystery until one could be courageous enough to ask for it. But what was he thinking? His mind was at a lost from his goal when cupid shot his arrow, enhancing the desire brewing in his garnet eyes. For swear in sight, he ne’er saw true beauty ‘til this night.
Unfortunately, Mario spotted Bowser, already suspecting it was the King of Koopas under the garments. The peace inside Bowser dissipated as he shuffled back into hiding but never releasing his glare from the plumber. Kamek, at a different location, observed the interaction between the two enemies. Although he wouldn’t act without the King’s wishes, it was his parental intuition kicking in. He would do the same for Bowser Jr. Still, it was the King’s plan to draw the main hero’s attention and all he needed to do was get the Belmonts.
At the same time, Mario scurried over to the Princess who was tending to other guests at the entrée section. “Don’t panic but Bowser is here,” he whispered to her.
“Bowser?” Peach turned around for a moment. She saw the man camouflaging in each corner of the ballroom. “I know that. I invited him here. Why? Do you think he’s up to no good?”
“He’s always up to no good.” Mario knew his nemesis too well during their encounters in the past. He wasn’t going to judge Peach for inviting him, but he was willing to judge Bowser for taking advantage of her goodwill. “Maybe he’s using this opportunity to kidnap you and steal the star.”
“Has he hurt any of the guests?”
“Not yet.”
“Then we mustn’t act rationally if he hasn’t done anything. Stand down.”
“Alright but I’ll keep my guard up just in case. I’ll make sure the others know too.”
Concurrently, Luigi, after the dance was over, loosens up a bit by resting against a white pillar. Exhaling, he thought it best to distance himself from his friends before joining them. He saw Daisy had enough energy to dance some more with Richter while Simon excused himself for the moment. He appeared bothered, having caught Kamek in the audience without Luigi’s knowledge, and vanished on him after the dance. Mario was elsewhere, either socializing with Peach or to almost anyone who was praising his position as the kingdom’s mighty hero. Yet, the young brother’s mind was set on a particular gallant among the crowd whom he caught exchanging glances with throughout his dance. His heart couldn’t help but stop, it wasn’t petrifying—the man’s mask appeared demonic—but entrancing to see a pair of blood red eyes hiding such haunting beauty. There was something different about him, perhaps he knew him somewhere but cannot remember how and when. He was as tall as Simon, tender in the way he bowed at the same time carry the manifestation of war and death. Part of him wished to know the man’s name before he could start swooning into his giant hands. If he’d be married, his love life would be embedded inside a casket.
“Do you have enough strength for one more waltz?” came in a deep voice behind him. Somehow, Luigi figured it was him.
“Oh! I-I-I don’t know,” Luigi feigned timidity to coy his potential suitor, twiddling his fingers together. “I was thinking of saving it with someone else. Someone I saw while I was dancing.”
“How ironic,” his suitor smirked. “I had hoped to dance with a young man whom I watched graciously at the dance floor. One who outshines even the royal of this castle.”
Luigi’s breath was held hostage; to overthrow Peach’s alluring feature was impossible but this man was unafraid to say such things. He turned around cautiously to see a black gloved hand held out to him.
“What say you now? Do I have your permission?” The man appeared much taller than far away which should’ve intimidated Luigi. But the man’s warmth and attractiveness say otherwise, convincing the young Mario brother to give his hand. The Red Death took him out to the dance floor in the middle of a waltz without disrupting it. Surprising Luigi was the mystery man’s left hand enfolding his waist, pulling him close where he could feel his body heat searing like lava, as the other one held his hand. It worried Luigi a lot which the Red Death noticed.
“What’s wrong?” he asked.
“You move so fast that I forgot how to dance,” chuckled Luigi nervously.
“You danced with your previous partner easily.”
“I know but for some reason, I’ve got stage fright.” The feeling was different as Simon was a good friend but with Red Death, there was intimacy overwhelming the green plumber.
“It’s fine,” the Red Death proceeded with the first steps, helping Luigi remember. “I’ll slow down if you like as long as you follow my lead.”
“I can do that,” Luigi reassured himself, repeating it in his head as an endless cycle as the Red Death guided him across the floor fairly. The man made each gliding step simple, avoiding the possibility of pressuring the prince. When he twirled him, an invisible skirt drawn to Luigi had blossoms furnished blowing about from the trees. The green plumber tried his best not to feel lightheaded with the man’s enigmatic gaze soothing his worries. Up close, a strong mixture of cologne and a nostalgic scent brushed up to his nose, tempting him to draw close to the man’s neck. But his fear to do so in public prevents him, causing a stiff in his body as the Red Death noted.
“Don’t be afraid,” he whispered to Luigi’s ear. The words vibrated through the canal, bringing him comfort and security. Red Death’s eyes—Bowser’s eyes—wandered towards Richter who was notified by Mario about the King’s attendance. Suspicious eyes glared upon him, but the Red Death ignored it, heartening Luigi, “We’re ethereal to the world.”
Once the dance was over, the audience clapped. Bowser and Luigi—without knowing one’s identity—didn’t pay attention towards their surroundings. The man’s words were wise and true, no one seemed to notice them together even as their hands continued to be linked. Bowser drew near Luigi, making him gasp as he whispered to his ear, “Meet me at the garden in fifteen minutes.” Just before Luigi could say anything else, the man straightens his tie and walked off, leaving the Italian speechless. For a moment, he thought he would be bold to kiss him in front of everyone but maybe, he would save it for later. Luigi flushed at the thought of it but had to quickly brush it off prior to meeting up with his friends.
It was Daisy whom Luigi had told his excuse once his fifteen minutes are up, admitting he was going to step outside for a breather. He didn’t like lying to her, something he was terrible at doing but deep down, he wanted to see his suitor again. This wasn’t like him, he wondered to himself. From one dance, Luigi was immediately mesmerized and determined to see him again. If the man wasn’t going to set up the rendezvous, he would; this was an opportunity to try something new for a change. He hardly ever talked to people outside his social circle, always shy and fumbled with his words. Mario was far amicable and no matter how much Luigi tried, he failed to make friends of his own. He was afraid of thinking the Red Death could be pulling a prank on him. The waltz was one thing but having a conversation is something challenging for the green plumber. Sincerity is key and while Luigi was overtaken by the man’s words, actions spoke louder than that.
He sneaked out through the backdoor where it leads to the gardens of the castle. A cool chill breezed upon his skin and hair as Luigi wandered across the red rose bushes aligned like a hedge. Fireflies twinkled like fairies for the atmosphere and lanterns to keep Luigi company. A lovely fountain stationed at the center poured water out like diamonds in a dark mine. Other guests were strolling in the area, sometimes with their respectable partners to share the twilight with. He breathed deeply, staring up at the night sky which gave an ethereal glow. The fireworks show would be starting soon, and he only hoped to be back in time to rejoin the others to watch it.
At an outskirt distant from the garden’s grounds, where trees populated the vicinity, Luigi was lost and ashamed that his doubts were becoming true. He stopped at a grand tree, ancient when he touched the bark but had health to grow green leaves. The fireflies were faint with the darkness overruling the area. Dismay ensues inside his heart; he may have handled haunted mansions before, but the darkness lingered in his fear. He rested against the wooden trunk, giving his feet some peace before planning to return. Until he heard footsteps emerging from the right, startling him to see Red Death standing in front the grandeur of the woods.
Luigi sighed in relief, “I thought you forgot.” He found his speech tumbling on his balance of words.
“Likewise. I thought you were scared by our dance. I apologized if I did,” the mystery man responded. During his wait time, the mystery man—Bowser—had to shoo off his hidden army to other locations. Some of them concealed among the bushes and tree branches, ready to protect their King.
“Oh no,” Luigi shook his head. “You were a great dancer.”
“So were you.”
“Me? No.” Luigi was left scratching his head in embarrassment though taking in the compliment. “I mean, I’ve done it before. Heh, I don’t know why I acted silly.”
“There’s no need to beat yourself about it. After all, no one took notice.”
“That’s true.”
Bowser took a moment to collect himself as he walked towards Luigi. “So, what country do you rule?”
“Country?”
“Is your kingdom far away or a neighbor to the Mushroom Kingdom?”
“Oh! I’m not a prince,” Luigi said.
“Wait, you’re not?” Bowser’s eyes widened a bit as he examined the white “prince” once more. Completely fooled, though, he might as well be one in his eyes.
“No. I’m just a resident here in Mushroom Kingdom.”
“If that’s not the case, are you a Lord or a Marquis?”
“Never mind what I am.” All those titles made Luigi feel inferior about his life as a plumber. He loved his job—the princesses were aware of it—but he wasn’t sure if any other royal member would.
“Are you ashamed of who you are?”
“Not really. Well, would you laugh if I said my work relies on fixing something?”
Red Death shrugged, “Depends on what you do?”
“I-I’m a plumber,” Luigi squeaked, grimacing on how the King would react. To his amaze, the King only replied, “Hmm. Alright.”
“You’re fine with it?”
“Sure. I don’t think I’ve met a plumber personally.” Except one, fumed the King, thinking back at the meddling Mario and his wimpy brother.
“What about you? Are you a royal?”
“A King” the Red Death said. “But I don’t want to bring up politics in a meeting like this. It ruins the beauty of a masquerade ball. The anonymity and enigma of hiding one’s identity.”
“I kind of figured seeing you look like someone of great importance.”
“As do you for someone who fixes water pipes.”
Luigi smiles, shyly kicking but tried to be discreet about the cherry color perfuming his cheeks. Anyone hardly acknowledged Luigi’s input, always seeing him as a specter on the sidelines. Luigi didn’t take it personally; after all, Mario was the bravest and strongest while he was the baby of the two. Regardless, he only found ways to help his brother. “No, I’m not that important. I’m just someone who wants to have a good time and live life the fullest.”
“And are you?” Bowser smirked.
“Yes, I am…” Luigi paused when he stared up at the scarlet orbs turning from war to lust. His large body cloaking him against the tree as Luigi shuddered, clutching his bowtie. His heart pounded, loud enough for his ears to listen to and his cheeks burned than ever before. He wasn’t sure if he was petrified of where this may lead or that someone might barge in unexpectedly.
“Don’t be afraid,” Bowser repeated his words from the dance. It also soothed his own skittish behavior, ready to implode.
With that, the King of Koopas sealed Luigi with a kiss, hands on the plumber’s shoulder to slither onto his waist. He was fragile compared to him, easy to break and his untamed nails scratching every inch of him. Luigi however hummed in delight, wrapping his arms around the man’s neck to deepen it. He felt lightweight, hardly touching the ground as the man lifted him in his arms and his right foot raised sweetly.
And then, a booming noise crackled in the night sky. Staring up, the lovebirds discovered the first rounds of fireworks shooting up high. Red, yellow, blue, and green; some shaped as rings, flowers, and hearts, they were the paintings of the evening. They were awestruck by their beauty as they were with each other; Bowser staring up at his flower who gazed upon the bright lights. “Beautiful,” Bowser gasped, making Luigi look at him endearingly. Their lips locked once again but with confidence as Luigi held his face with his hands. Luigi had forgotten about his brother and friends, focusing on only his desire for this man. Leading up to this moment, his floral crown prospered, and everything felt like a dream. One they both wished to never wake up from.
“Luigi!”
Daisy’s voice was eclipsed by the ecstatic sound of the fireworks above her. When Mario showed concern about his brother’s whereabouts, she offered to search for him along with Richter. Because Bowser was present, his big brother’s instinct rose to a milestone, attempting to keep his little brother close to him. But of course, being a hero of Mushroom Kingdom meant having a lot of admirers, so it was difficult to keep track on where he was. Right when the fireworks show was starting was when the panicked older brother realized his brother was absent. Daisy figured he had vanished into the gardens but couldn’t picture him venturing further. Richter busied himself searching east while she searched up north.
“Luigi!” she called again.
Stepping into the borders between the woods and the castle’s gardens, Daisy stumbled upon a sight she never thought she’d see: Luigi making out with Bowser himself. She covered her mouth in astonishment as her heart shrieked. She remained stiff as a board, unsure of what to do. She looked around to see if Richter was present, knowing the vampire hunter wouldn’t hesitate to battle the King of Koopas. And Peach made it clear not to create any problems.
“Hey! Where are you?!” Daisy called out when any sparks no longer flared in the sky. Her voice reached the ears of both Luigi and his mystery man, causing the two to separate quickly. The green plumber fixed his crooked mask as well as strands of his brown hair when she approached him while the King stepped to the side.
“Your brother’s been looking for you. We gotta go,” she said. The Princess of Sarasaland exchanged rapid glances to the giant man who straighten awkwardly. Daisy quickly grabbed Luigi’s hand and dragged him back in the direction to the castle. Luigi simultaneously stared back at his mystery man who paused for several seconds before pursuing the two. All of it was cut short and Bowser wanted more; he declared to himself that he never wanted to be part.
It wasn’t long for Daisy to reunite with Richter and the three made their way towards the steps of the porch where Peach, Mario and Simon were waiting for them. All other guests were carefully escorted back inside; the party was finally over. Bowser meanwhile stood by the bottom two steps of the stairs, quietly watching the other man welcomed by the kingdom’s heroes and princess. They didn’t notice him especially Mario who’s only attention was on the Koopa King’s white flower. However, he managed to catch their conversations, listening to bold words such as “Luigi” and “brother” transmitted into his mind. It made him think of all his confrontations with the red pipsqueak, recalling that he was always accompanied by another. One dressed in green, slightly taller than the hero and with an L on his hat….
Bowser’s eyes widened, gluing his eyes towards the man he kissed namely Luigi. No! It can’t be him!! Bowser thought, raising his mask in disbelief. Defeated, he suspended and sighed, taking slight backward steps away. He planned to meet up with Kamek and the other two soldiers to delay the attack. For tonight, his life is his foe’s debt.
As for Luigi, before Bowser would vanish from sight, he looked back at Red Death for one last time. His heart still lingered for him, wondering when they would ever see each other again. If it may be the last, Luigi removed his mask, unveiling his identity to his mystery man. Unbeknownst to the others, Daisy sneaked over, whispering to him, “That’s Bowser, the King of Koopas. The man you kissed is our enemy.” She wasn’t upset but she had to warn her friend of what’s to come.
Watching his mystery man named Bowser disappear, Luigi’s heart sank, figuring he might’ve known as well. Feeling the sudden tug from his brother, Luigi then followed his older brother inside the castle. His fingertips discreetly touched the surface of his lips, continuously feeling the aftermath of the kiss. Prodigious birth of love it was to him, that he must love a loathed enemy.
“Are you sure, your hideousness?” stammered Kamek once the carriage traveled out of the kingdom’s premises, finding itself in the road to the Dark Lands. Bowser stepped out of the vehicle, passing the mask to his second in command to feel the cold evening wind brushing into his garnet spiky locks. He figured Kamek was growing suspicious after having him call off the attack on the castle though thankfully, it was never about what had occurred between him and Luigi. He didn’t blame him; by now, they should’ve taken the princess and many other guests hostage while Mario would’ve gone on another adventure to save them.
He turned to him replying, “Don’t question my command. I only want to travel alone. Just make sure my son is still asleep, the castle secured and don’t wait up. I should be home then.”
Kamek was slightly skeptical but nonetheless granted his Lordship’s wishes, saying, “Very well, your Evilness. Be careful.”
As soon as he shuts the door, the carriage soon started to move up ahead, leaving him in the roadside as he watches it disappear. He wasn’t ready to head home, knowing he wouldn’t sleep a wink after everything that happened. Bowser tucked his coat and traced back into the direction of the Mushroom Kingdom.
The Mushroom Forest were in the outside boundaries of the kingdom, with the plant as high as a sequoia tree. They were the resources of the powered mushrooms—ranging from the classic red to the rare green ones—though there were inedible ones lurking around. Biddybuds, traveling in groups, and bramballs who moved nonchalantly like slinkies resided in these parts. At the evening, however, the creatures camouflaged when they sleep with the Biddybuds resting among boulders and the tall bramballs standing still in whatever spot they remained. From afar, they were shaped like small hills among the forest. It could be the atmosphere, but Bowser almost felt tiny in comparison, staring above the giant plants. In the dark, they were towers almost reaching for the sea of stars above.
It didn’t matter, though, feeling the effect of the kiss lingering upon his lips. Sweetened and rich like melted gold, it marked a link between him and the green plumber. Ghostly remnants of Luigi’s skin stuck to his hands, missing the delicate body he embraced. He slipped his hands onto his pockets, soon feeling a smooth texture by his fingertips. He pulled it out to unveil a rose plucked from the castle’s garden back at the party. He had forgotten to give it to Luigi before they shared their first kiss. His heart fluttered, a sensational overflow of cupid’s pink lemonade washing him up until he was drowning with love.
“Why?” Bowser wondered woefully. “Why of all things did it have to be you?” And yet, no sign of regret ever signaled in his words; Bowser wasn’t the kind to dismiss anything he didn’t lament upon.
Suddenly, Bowser heard some rustling coming from the left, prompting him to hide behind one of the mushrooms. A light was seen at a close distance; Bowser’s first thought was a patrolling guard from the castle. Normally, they were wouldn’t astray in these parts of the kingdom—this place was considered feral—so he had to start thinking of an escape plan without getting noticed.
Thankfully, it wasn’t a Toad but someone he didn’t imagine coming across again. It was his prince, seeing Luigi emerge in his view. It was his love. Unlike Bowser, he had replaced his ball outfit for his comfortable sleeping robe and pine green slippers. His signature hat was absent, displaying his short brown hair and carrying a flashlight with him to guide him through the dark forest. It wasn’t the place he necessarily wouldn’t like to venture alone, however, just by staring at his distress, that was the least of his concern.
Luigi hopped on top of one of the mushrooms, nearby a ledge where the whole view of the kingdom displayed. The full moon in the background behind the high tops of Peach’s castle glistened into his sapphire eyes and he was lost in his troubles. Bowser sneaked behind, trying not to scare the young plumber and went to another mushroom bark that had the perfect view of Luigi.
The green Mario brother sat down, hugging his legs close to his chest and sighed in hopelessness, “Why are you Bowser? Why of all names did you have to be Bowser?”
The Bowser he knew was an evil tyrant who wanted nothing more than to conquer lands and have Princess Peach as his Queen. Easily tempered and destructive, him and Mario had been on each other’s necks since they resided here. And while Luigi couldn’t forget his encounters with the menacing King, it felt different meeting him in a distinguished celebration. Even if it was a masquerade party, the Koopa King was unrecognizable. He was serene, elegant, adjectives he wouldn’t describe him. A romantic, treating him gently no less and it made Luigi wonder if he was ever like that behind closed doors. It was nice, he blushed but sighed, knowing he was behaving for someone else he didn’t know. And the worst part of it was Luigi was falling in love.
“Why couldn’t you be someone else? Another king from some unknown land? Instead of an enemy, a friend,” he shuddered. Luigi had no doubt Bowser would try to forget about everything that happened between them. Moved on and continued to plan for another attack, maybe he would go after him for ridiculing him.
A nervous look grew on his face as he pondered, “Would it be selfish of me to ask him to abandon it all? Because if we were to go back to the way things were, I don’t think I would’ve.” Although Luigi was reminded of his brother, Mario. His best friend and twin by birth; he couldn’t bear the thought of abandoning him. He knew his older brother would react negatively about his newfound romance with his enemy.
Crushed by that reality, Luigi shook his head and grieved, “I guess it’s never meant to be.”
“What’s not meant to be?”
Luigi squeaked, turning around to see Bowser surface from his hiding spot and walking towards him. The distance was apparent, and the hesitance grew between them to close the gap. Stammering, Luigi stood up and covered his mouth while his reddened cheeks blossomed. He only hoped the evening’s shadows enfolded them.
“H-H-How much did you hear all of that?” Luigi stuttered.
“All of it,” Bowser replied.
Luigi briefly glanced at the man’s red wine eyes, soft and calm, gazing at his cobalt blue ones. “Are…” he paused, lowering his hands but still clasped together. “Are you upset? Because I don’t blame you if you are. I’m sorry. W-What are you doing here?”
“Isn’t it obvious? I wanted to see you again,” Bowser answered.
“B-But this is all Mushroom Kingdom territory. If you were caught…”
“You think Princess Peach’s guards would ever strike at me with their pesky spears? They can hardly stand in the same room as me unless I was shrunk to a size of a peanut,” the King scoffed.
“I'm more concerned about my brother. He’d try and kill you.”
“I’m not,” Bowser jeered, taking extra steps towards the younger Mario brother. “He’d probably still think I’m here for Peach.”
“Even more reason for you to go for your own safety.”
“And leave me unsatisfied? Never.”
Bowser then presented the rose to Luigi who blushingly smiled and took the rose gently. He was admiring the flower’s beauty whilst the King admired the beauty of the young man in front of him.
“Did you mean it? Everything you said?” Bowser asked.
Luigi looked up from the rose to the Koopa King. His mind processed from the reflective thoughts plaguing him. His smile faltered, turning away from the concerned Bowser.
“Do you regret it?” Bowser then asked.
Luigi shook his head.
“Then? Why are you holding back?”
Luigi, twirling the rose clockwise by the stem, replied, “Because if I look at you, I’m going to lose all sense of reason.”
Bowser exhaled through his nose, sympathizing Luigi’s conflict as he was in the same position. Instead of gloating about his successful raid, he was here, gently pleading, “Luigi, look at me.”
He shifted his index finger under Luigi’s chin, lifting him to meet his gaze. Part of him thought he was crying but was faced with a rubescent face burning like the temperate lava. His blue eyes glistened with love, seducing Bowser into complimenting, “You’re so beautiful.”
Luigi didn’t know what to say or even had anything to say as his lips contacted Bowser’s. His heart jumped, his whole body numbed, and feelings resurfaced from the party. Bowser’s eyes were closed, experiencing everything all over again. While still snuggling his hand around Luigi’s waist, his other hand caressed Luigi’s cheek and his thumb smoothing the skin. Luigi, giving in, submerged his fingers inside the man’s vermillion hair. Bowser’s lips then trailed onto the young man’s cheek and into his neck. Luigi shuddered; the King was careful with his kisses, attempting not to terrify the green plumber.
“Be mine,” Bowser supplicated through each passing kiss.
“Yes,” Luigi said. As Bowser stopped the chain of kisses, the star-crossed lovers stared at each other again with love and content. “As long as you’re also mine, I will be yours.”
The King was too lovestruck to respond, bushing his fingers upon Luigi’s face, stroking his cheek. Oh, blesséd, blesséd night, he wanted to say.
“Bowser, we can’t continue. Not tonight,” Luigi continued, holding the man’s hand while smiling.
“How about tomorrow night? Right here,” Bowser suggested. “It’ll be better.”
Luigi couldn’t stop smiling—the more he gave him his love, the more he had for both are infinite—and stole another kiss.
“One more before I leave,” Bowser requested.
Luigi obliged and gave the King another one but this time, Bowser snuck his tongue inside with tease. Luigi jolted and moaned, blushing harder than before. Bowser chuckled as they pulled back with a lightheaded Luigi gasping for breath.
“I-I’m sorry,” he apologized.
“Don’t worry about it,” Bowser said. “Will you be alright traveling home on you own?”
Luigi nodded, having known his way around the woods since becoming a resident in the kingdom. He then gave Bowser a peck on the cheek. “Goodnight, Bowser. Stai attento.”
“Goodnight, love.”
Bowser waited as Luigi soon walked towards the direction he came. He glanced at him one last time before turning on his flashlight and departing down the trail to the kingdom. Filled with glee and passion, Bowser snuck out of Mushroom Forest, anticipated for the next evening to come quickly than soon.