Lmpkio

World of Light

@ProPro Ah I see. Want me to change it?

World of Light

<Snipped quote by Lmpkio>

Geez that's a lot of text! And that first part just over the cutoff, too. I guess the breakdown would be 3 for Bowser and Mario from the collab, 1 extra for Mario for the followup, and 3 more for Geno because of the prelude.

@Lugubrious

Damn das alotta spaghetti points for Geno. Will add them in accordingly.

The two of you might consider a less-is-more approach starting sometime soon, going for quality (things like using the active voice, no typos, and fixing grammatical mistakes) over quantity. Conciseness is a valuable trait.

@Lugubrious

I'm a very detail-oriented person, so this is normal to me, however I will definitely consider using that mindset for future posts - especially now that I have 2 characters under my belt.

World of Light

Welp, he's finally here folks!

Man that post took a long while. I will be making a profile for Mario soon. His first power that he'll start off with will be Fireballs.

Btw, Lug, can you remind me again how XP distribution revolves around collabs? Im guessing anyone involved gets the same amount of EXP depending on how long the post is?

World of Light

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Level 3 - (18/30) EXP (+3 from Mario's Post)
Location: Scrapyard (Boss)
Word Count: 1,264

Boost Cool-down Time: (T-6 Posts)

_{Direct Mentions: @DracoLunaris, @ProPro}

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Geno's news regarding Kamek's "betrayal" definitely didn't sit well with the Koopa King as he guaranteed vengeance over this new king that his advisor worshipped. Indeed, the fact that a rival leader figure was in the area made the puppet a bit more concerned than he'd like. Who was this new king of his? Surely it couldn't have been Bowser, right? He's right here with them - freed from possession by Kirby's magic. Of course, Kamek could possibly be referring to Galeem, but even then that's a very hard stretch. If anything, that floating seraphim ought to be called a god. And it wouldn't bow down to an insignificant magikoopa or even care at this point about the growing resistance. So it couldn't have been it either.

Either way, something didn't sit well with him. Geno should've made sure that he was dead in the first place before escaping with the purple dragon, but alas he got away and called for reinforcements. The star warrior could only groan at what stronger forces they'd be up against - let alone who their king is. All he could do now was pray that they'll have enough time to gather their stuff and prepare for what lurked in the castle.

But before he could focus back his attention in finding Kirby, the gruff-looking cowboy came stomping towards him with a snarl of rage planted into his face.

”What the fuck ever happened to scouting ahead, huh? You know that doesn’t mean a god damn thing when the scout doesn’t fucking come back right?!”

Geno was taken aback by his initial bellowing and froze to look up at the rambling Courier 6 flailing his arms around in a spastic gesture. Yet other than his eyes slightly widening in surprise, his calm attitude didn't interfere with his rationality. He'd then try to explain himself to him.

"But I~"

But Courier 6 interrupted him as he continued going on a long and roaring tangent.

”I can’t imagine how it would’ve been helpful if you had actually, I don’t know, reported that there was a fucking war up ahead!”

Geno tried to explain himself, but every time he'd find himself ignored by this enraged ball of testosterone.

"Can you plea~"

"Or what was guarding the bridge! I’d rather deal with an army of tunnelers and marked men with five minutes to plan strategy than one mole rat in an ambush, and you could’ve provided that, but noooooo you had to go inside the castle without backup?!"

"If you can just~"

"For what, to bring back some fat midget?"

Geno's own anger spiked within his wooden frame as he became tired of this guy rambling him down. Then again, the Star Warrior did admit to himself that he could've reported back to them when he had the chance. In fact, he initially engaged the enemy forces to provide the rest of the group less opponents to battle. Only when the Engineer and his turrets showed up was Geno forced to bail into the castle stream and try to find his way out. And he had no idea how fast or slow the group would take to get to the battlefield. Was he really in the castle for that long? Even then, if this loud-mouth knew what he had to go through, perhaps it would've spared the puppet from this long rambling. And his remark on Mario? He clearly had no idea how powerful the hero of the Mushroom Kingdom really was.

But as Geno finally found a chance to try and explain to Courier 6 everything that happened, he suddenly heard the Master of Masters alert to them regarding something falling out of the sky. In fact, there were two things that were up there. The first - as well as the most blatantly obvious one - was a damaged spaceship of some kind making its descent towards a crash landing. In fact, this spaceship looked more like a space-house rather than an actual ship, which perplexed the wooden puppet. Regardless, he instinctually made for cover as the giant ship crashed down into the moat, only to get soaked by an incoming mini-tsunami that came from the impact. Several of the group mates rushed to see who was piloting the ship, revealing a young girl in a large hat.

What was a child doing driving a space-house like that?

But the question of the hour would be replaced by another more perplexing figure. When it finally appeared.

"The Arrival Of Megadragonbowser!"

Descending from the blazing skies, a giant winged creature descended to meet the hobbling group mates. But this was no ordinary figure... for it sported the unmistakable image of Bowser himself!

With wings!

And glowing yellow eyes!

And he sounded just like him!

”SO, THESE ARE THE 'INTRUDERS' KAMEK TOLD ME ABOUT.”

Geno's wooden stomach turned a full 180 in light of his relationship with Kamek. His dread had come to pass and before him stood what Kamek declared for him to be his "King". In fact, being in such awe and intimidation of this giant intimidating monstrosity, he dared not to begin firing upon him. Perhaps what he told Bowser who Kamek referred to was... half-true perhaps. But how the hell could he have known?

This is what Courier 6 asked of him, wondering if this was indeed Geno's fault for bringing him in. The puppet said nothing, fixating his eyes on this alternate Bowser life form in a terrified glance. While he continued standing there, several others began to issue their own comments on the matter. Linkle and Blazer's asked why this Bowser was naked (clearly they didn't see their Bowser on the regular), whilst Bowser tried to comprehend why there were two of him - even asking if he was Junior as an adult. Yet Geno just gazed upon this newfound figure with wonder. He too had questions to why there's another Bowser in the vicinity, as well as wondering if there's even more Bowsers in this world? Will they meet these alternate doppelgangers? And if there are alternate versions of him, are there any for Geno or virtually anyone else for that matter?

These are answers that he'll have to think about later. His hypnotic gaze quickly snapped back to reality as he panically searched for the one he'd been told who can revive the "anti-Bowser" from his possessed slumber.

"Kirby!" he called out frantically as he searched around for his friend whilst ignoring the speech that Courier 6 had been making in the background, "I need you right now!"

Of course, before he went off running towards him, Geno went back to retrieve Mario's body and once again dragged him towards the pink puffball. But after taking just a few steps back, he suddenly saw the cowboy figure snap his fingers to reveal a measly heart. He'd pause as he looked up at the red object with wonder, seemingly confused as to how he could've done such a thing. But as the heart drew closer to his location, that's when it finally snapped to him.

Perhaps Din wasn't being completely ridiculous when she suggested that he - a gun-wielding and gritty cowboy figure - out of all people could erect such an object.

He watched as the heart landed on Mario's torso and quickly absorb into the plumber's frame. Geno's eyes widened as he looked down at his unconscious friend in intense anticipation. And after several seconds had passed, his eyes finally opened...

And revealed two aqua-blue eyes with not a shine of crimson to them.

---

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Level 1 - (4/10) EXP
Location: Scrapyard (Boss)
Word Count: 671 (Main post) + 2,671 (Collab with @DracoLunaris = 3,372

"Before the Smashening" Collab

COLLAB BY LMPKIO & DRACOLUNARIS

Word Count: 2,699

Peach’s Castle - A Few Hours Earlier

As was so often the case it was a beautiful day in the Mushroom Kingdom. Above the sun and moon both hung in a bright blue sky dotted with only a few wispy skies, down below a light breeze whispered through the carefully kept gardens surrounding the caste which were filled with toads, all currently sporting a variety of colorful hats, celebrating the return of princess Peach from her second, and this time voluntary, trip around the globe. Having arrived via taxi, princess traveled up the path to her castle a wheeled suitcase bouncing along behind her that was stuffed with souvenirs and plastered with stickers from all the kingdoms she had visited. As she climbed the gentle hill heading for home she was slowed by the questions and conversation of several toads and one balloon toting Luigi who wanted to know how she was doing and how her trip had been. Peach responded with cheerful grace, more than happy to see familiar faces after her pst kidnaping vacation and was eager to ragale those she met with tales of the places she had been and the people she had met.

Eventually however she made it to the bridge to her castle and, after making promises about cake and holiday snaps she left most of the crowd behind her. She headed across the bridge with the skip in her step accompanied by the “clack clack clack” of her heels against the marble archway. The cheerful tapping was halted about stop half way across the bridge at hearing the all to familiar sound of vast propellers and moments later the sky darkened as the sun was blocked out by the arrival of Bowser’s airships. Dark storm clouds followed in the wake of the Koopa King’s fleet of ships, rolling in and blotting out the cheerful blue skies.

“Oh no...” peach gasped as they descended on her kingdom.

Along with Bowser’s usual ship there where 8 others. Seven of these had styled bows made in the image of the seven Koopalings who captained them and these spread out around the castle, dropping off bowser's minions who proceeded to terrify the local toads while they formed an "Anti-Mario" perimeter. The 9th ship was a miniaturized affair that bore Bowser Jr which accompanied Bowser's flagship as it descended down to the moat, the bow of the ship coming to rest just beside the bridge to the castle that Peach was on while Bowser jr’s smaller ship descended down to the other side behind her. The tiny koopa, who was smartly dressed in a ring bearer’s attire and carrying a newly acquired golden staff featuring a lightning bolt atop it, clearly visible commanding his mini vessel and poised ready to intercept peach if she attempted to flee in either direction. Bowser, who had clearly had not taken the time changed since he their last encounter, then appeared on the bow of his ship, accompanied by a flash of lightning conducted by his son.

“HAHAHA! YOU DIDN’T THINK YOU COULD DITCH ME THAT EASILY, DID YA PRINCESS?”

"Airship Armada"

Of course, whenever Bowser made his grand appearance within the immediate vicinity of Peach’s castle, his archrival would surely not be far behind. Looking up at the events from down in Toad Town, the unmistakable mustached man angrily twittled with his facial hair as he observed the Koopa’s Armada storm towards the royal castle. Their last confrontation was just weeks prior - after enduring a odyssey across the globe and onto the moon of all things - and yet Bowser was already back up on his feet, ready to kidnap Princess Peach for the millionth time in a row! How many more times can that overgrown turtle take? To say that Mario was caught off guard by his sudden arrival would simply be unprofessional.

For he was always well prepared to foil any of Bowser’s schemes, no matter how big or small they were.

"Let's-a-go..." he simply muttered.

Without further delay, Mario flipped up his cap as he immediately dashed towards Peach’s Castle. Already he can see that the Koopa King’s minions were being deployed on the streets to disperse the toad populous. They were mostly comprised of the traditional goombas and koopas - spiced up with their para-units and shy guys. Overall, it seemed nothing out of the ordinary just yet. When the first goombas recognized the plumber’s intrusion however, they would be too late to run as a mighty brown boot squashed them into pancakes. The koopa troopas would immediately deploy multiple portable bullet bill launchers as they launched at the plumber with great speed. Mario would dodge and weave at the incoming bullets, even stomping on several to get more height in his strive, until he reached the green shells and punched them away with ferocious force. And to those farther away, he’d launch a volley of fireballs to deal with them

He would continue running the gauntlet to Peach’s castle, ruthlessly eliminating every opposition in his way as they attempted to stall Mario for as long as they could. But at the speed that the plumber was going, he’d surely be unable to reach Bowser before he could kidnap the Princess. He needed a way to get there faster - way faster in fact.

But one look up at the closest koopaling airship - Larry’s to be exact - told him that there was indeed a faster way towards his quarry. Seeing a squad red-shelled para-troopas approach from the deck, Mario took a running stride to one of the Toad houses and leaped onto the head of the closest troopa, knocking it into its shell as soon as his boot connect. There he would leap onto the next koopa and then towards the next - and the next - before he found himself on the miniature airship.

Once on deck, the troops on deck immediately were alerted to his presence and they proceeded to fire homing red bullet bills from the ship’s own cannons. Again, the resourceful plumber made use of these projectiles by leading one towards the main rudder that kept the ship mobile. Once the first bullet hit the main mast, the airship was unable to hold itself up as it slowly began to sink back towards the ground. But by that time, Mario utilized the rest of the bullet bills to get towards the next koopaling airship. He would jump from ship to ship before finally reaching Bowser’s own airship. And by the time he got up there, four koopaling airships had been immobilized by his own hand.

Once landing on the hard wooden deck, Mario faced his shell-clad nemesis and rose his fists to combat. He didn’t announce any introductory greetings or words of battle. In fact, he didn’t need to say anything. For he knew exactly how it was going to go down.

The koopa king roared at the sight of the mustached hero while behind him Peach, who was had only just been corralled by the Beast and his son, cried out for help, only to be snatched up by Bowser Jr and taken to his miniature airship. The ship, baring the princess and staff wielding boy then hovered up and around the site of the arch-enemies' showdown, freeing the two up to duke it out with no holds barred. Bowser took the initiative, launching himself at Mario one fist reaching back to wind up a titanic strike.

Mario figured Bowser’s son would take the chance to nab Peach while he was distracted, but at this point all that mattered was beating the Great Koopa King himself. He’ll deal with his son later. So once Bowser initiated the first strike, that’s when the battle finally began. However with the Koopa King’s slower speed and massive body language blatantly telegraphing his move, Mario would easily utilize his speed and agility to dodge his opponent’s massive, meaty fist, He ducked just below it before jumping up to issue a powerful uppercut to his opponent’s jaw, with coins dinging just above his head.

Bowser took the bow on the chin for even as his head was forced up by the strike he was inhaling deeply, flames wisping at the edges of his mouth. A moment later the king launched himself backwards, letting out a gout of flame as he made space for himself, before landing a little distance away from Mario. Above him, well out of reach Bowser Jr, and still keeping a tight grip on Peach, he waved the lightning staff at the rumbling sky. Sparks danced along its zig-zag head as the magic weapon began charging up.

As the large fireball approached him, Mario leapt straight over it as he sprinted towards the Koopa King. Yet as he approached him, he suddenly took a better look at the lightning staff that junior had in his possession. He had no idea what it is or where he even got it - although Mario would guess that he might’ve made a trip to Star Road or some other sacred place - but he knew that whatever Bowser had in his hands was assuredly going to cause major trouble. He’ll have to take it out of his hands quickly for it already seemed to be charging up.

That said, Mario launched a volley of fireballs to keep the giant koopa busy as he once again jumped at a specific angle in order to try and grasp the lightning staff from his son. He’ll not allow him to use anymore dirty tricks in an honest brawl. Not this time.

The young prince had no interest in cooperating however, or to be more exact his helmsman unseen did not as the ship lurched up and away from the incoming Mario. Escaping had thrown off Bowser Jr’s aim however and the charged up sparks lepet towards a random part of the ship rather than at the plumber himself. Where they struck they seemed to have no effect, up until a moment alter a mighty lightning bolt arced down from the sky and struck the deck. The boy began charging another blast as soon as the ship re-stabilized up in the sky while the king charged towards the landing zone of the now descending plumber, attempting to careen into him as soon as he hit the deck.

His mark was off by just a few feet, leaving Mario to descend back onto the deck. The lightning bolt that descended from the sky nearly hit the plumber, as his ‘stache felt the tingling sparks brushing off it. The staff seemed true to its looks - a lightning staff which had the power to summon lightning from the sky. It was not the worse thing he had seen Bowser holding - and god forbid the time he had a damn star rod in his possession - but he must still be extremely wary of its usage.

Meanwhile, Mario could see Bowser running towards him from below, just waiting to cream him once he landed. While normally he would be subjected to his ever increasing might, in this case Mario had earned a few new tricks up his sleeve over the years. Once he was just at the right height, he suddenly turned rapidly around into a living cyclone - producing the infamous “Mario Tornado” maneuver in order to counter his approach.

Having failed to hit the plumber Bowser’s charge continued forwards as the king was borne by his momentum. To right this he slammed a claw into the ship’s deck. His bulk dredged a wretched scrape through the wood but it did quickly bring him to halt. As Mario landed he breathed in once more, this time launching a flurry of fireballs, far greater than the plumber’s own in size if not speed, at Mario while his son finished charged up another lightning strike.

Mario quickly realized the giant fireballs coming in his direction and immediately attempted to bolt away from their massive size. He can feel the heat radiating off of each one, threatening to cook him alive if he wasn’t careful. However, when one particular fireball was heading straight for him, he had an idea spring into mind. Standing in place, he grasped his hand onto a yellow fabric behind him and spun it towards the giant flaming ball with all of his strength and speed to redirect it back at the Koopa King.

Following this, Mario began charging up his own fireball that brewed within his hands. Before he could launch it however, he noticed from the corner of his eye that the staff that Junior held began to glow. It was as if it was charged and ready to go. He knew what he must do. Once his fireball was charged, instead of launching it at Bowser, he launched it at Junior’s miniature airship. He knew it was a risky maneuver - especially with Junior holding his love hostage within - but he was confident that he will be quick enough to save her just in the nick of time.

The fireball struck true, blowing a hole in the tiny ship that began to leak smoke. The helmsman attempted to keep her steady, but it was no use. The ship rocked too and for, causing junior to lose his footing and stumble off of the failing craft. The princess, prince and staff all dropped like stones.

With Junior’s influence being utterly immobilized, Mario sprinted towards the side of the ship. Once he leapt off the deck, he immediately tied the yellow cape to his neck, causing him to earn the power of flight. He swooped as fast as he could towards the falling Princess first, clutching her with his mighty arms. Once she was out of immediate danger, Mario used his other hand to grasp the lighting staff and - being how he was a rather respectful person - used it to pluck Junior’s bib, locking it between both the cloth and the kid’s neck. Having the burden to carry this assortment of cargo, Mario would then make his way back to the castle balcony. He hovered in between the castle and Bowser’s airship, carefully placing Peach back on the marbled floor before turning his attention back to the Koopa King himself.

"It’s-a-over Bowser." the plumber finally spoke in his iconic italian accent as he tossed junior back onto the airship using the staff, "I have the high ground as-a-usual. How many more times are we-a-gonna keep-a doing this? Like it’s-a-been only a week or so since we fought on the Moon for mushroom’s sake! And you still failed!"

Bowser, had been left in the dust by the plumber’s flight and scrambled now to catch his son, a great claw reaching out and softening the boy’s landing. Bowser sighed in relief Jr picked himself up and then replied to Mario.

“DON’T YOU DARE UNDERESTIMATE ME MARIO. YOU MIGHT HAVE WON LAST TIME BUT WE ARE GOING TO DO THIS OVER, AND OVER AGAIN UNTIL I FINALLY BEAT YOU FOR ONCE!”

He roared and launched himself up at the plumber, taking his son along with him as together they tried to strike down their eternal foe. As they approached the mustached plumber, Mario raised the lightning staff - with electricity cackling through the tip - and pointed it towards both father and son, ready to smite them both.

But before the two would clash against one another~

”SPECIAL DELIVERY FOR MARIO MARIO, LUIGI MARIO, PRINCESS PEACH TOADSTOOL, KING BOWSER KOOPA, AND BOWSER KOOPA JUNIOR!”

It was then when the two parties ceased their hostile advance upon each other’s throats and looked over to who had called their names. A lone lakitu could be seen carrying a duffle bag upon its humble little cloud as it floated towards the two fighters. Mario dropped the staff onto the balcony as he was handed over a simple letter. At first, it seemed like only your average envelope - but upon looking at the red imprinted sticker - a sphere marked by a cross - he knew exactly where it was from.

It was that time of the year again.

In a flash of blinding light, Mario opened his eyes as he gasped for air. His mind regarding all that happened was in a heavy blur, with random memories and thoughts being jambled all over the place. He remembered his climatic battle with Bowser, followed by his invitation to the 5th Annual Smash tournament by a random lakitu messenger. Then he recalls being upon the edge of a cliff amongst all the other fighters, staring up into the warm golden sun-kissed skies to witness an army of hands orchestrated by a glowing ball with wings.

Then everything went blank.

Mario vaguely remembered himself floating in a dark room aimlessly as he calmly looked over the sea of utter void. There was no one else in the room but him. Not a single one. And there was no sound either - nothing but natural white noise ringing in his ears. It felt like he was in there for hours, days even, before he found himself violently sucked down into a white hole below him. And now he's awoken here - wherever he is.

"W-Where am-a-I?" the plumber groaned groggily as he cleared his vision.

He was surrounded by multiple different characters - each sporting different body types and figures. Mario figured he was still in the Smash tournament, yet there were some here that he didn't recognize at all. And his body... oh how it ached upon the soft grassy bed. Was he fighting something before then? Surely he had to be. And that's, he saw a familiar wooden figure look down upon him.

"Mario?" the voice echoed as the plumber still tried to get himself in focus, "Are you awake?"

Was he hallucinating? He blinked several times just to make sure to what he was seeing was indeed true.

"G-Geno?" he asked curiously, "Is that-a-you? Where am-a-I?"

His vision finally adjusted to its normal phase as he took a good look at the surrounding environment. He noticed how the environment was strangely familiar to him - perhaps way too familiar in fact. He could even see a castle looking suspsiously like Peach's Castle the distance behind...

Was that Bowser flying with wings?

"Is that-a Bowser?"

His eyes widened as he looked around at all the other fighters lined up to fight him. That's when he noticed yet another Bowser - one who wore the same suit that he had last fought Bowser in - within their ranks. Was he the same Bowser he knew? In fact, he had a more important question as he began to slowly rise up.

"Why are there-a-two Bowsers?!" he yelled as he quickly got to his feet, ready for a fight, "What is-a-going on here?!"

He would only be calmed by Geno's influence as he tried to hold him back from fighting the regular Bowser.

"Control yourself!" Geno yelled as he began to slap sense into his bewildered friend, "I'll tell you everything about what happened later, but that Bowser is one of us. He's not the enemy!"

The Star Warrior would then point towards the ominous flying Koopa King in the sky.

"That's the Bowser who we're fighting." he mentioned softly, "I'm also just as confused as you are, but we must remain focused right now. We're all in this together, Mario. Trust me."

The mustached man glared into his friend's eyes, seemingly distrustful at first, before he closed his eyes and regained his composure. He'd simply nod at his old-friend's response.

"Very well." Mario answered softly as he patted Geno on the back, "Let's-a-go then."

As he departed from Geno's side, his sights would then be placed directly into the eyes of his now flying nemesis, as his face contorted into a purposeful grimace. He proceeded to roll up his sleeves while his fists began to spark flames while Courier 6 proceeded to let everyone get their A-games on and not to embarrass him in front of this monster. The plumber smirked at that request before cracking his knuckles.

"Don't-a-worry." he responded with absolute confidence, "Beating folks like him are my specialty."

And so...

World of Light

@ProPro Welp I wasn't expecting that be in so soon but ya know what, that don't matter anymore lol

Expect Mario to be officially introduced into the RP by my next post

Divinus: The God RP, Mk. III. Finished in Record Time™!

Arae

7MP | 17FP

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M.P: 8 | F.P: 25

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𝔖 𝔢 𝔦 𝔥 𝔡 𝔥 𝔞 𝔯 𝔞

Seihdhara of the Red Hair | The Crimson Goddess | The Sanguine Protector

Goddess of Martial Combat
0 Might and 23 Freepoints

_{Time: The Day the Gods Came}

The soul of the fighting goddess was swift, but swifter yet was the furious familial cry of the pantheon's guardian goddess, Arae. The Seihdhara's living strand was not far when the goddess' soul stopped and looked behind her for a sign of the one that had called to her. She did not know why, but her sister had sounded somewhat angry. Seihdhara could not remember interacting with the goddess of the goddess of the family or giving her any reason to be angry with her, and so she was understandably confused. And on the horizon there came the fearsome shape of the dragon goddess, flying with speed and fury and causing heaven to shrink back and the seas to bow, fearful and humbled. Seihdhara’s searing soul stared at the goddess as she grew closer and closer, and when the huge dragon was not more than a hundred handspans away Seihdhara rushed towards it.

What is it? Is something the matter? I got myself killed? Calm down! Rayster’s clear panic and sense of urgency seemed to have found its way into Seihdhara also, and the goddess could not speak fast enough.

Arae decelerated in an instant upon reaching Seihdhara, but she did not quite realize what she was looking at, at first. She was sure her familial bond was still active, but Seihdhara herself was nowhere to be seen. There was just a glowing sphere. The familial bond had led her here, but all Arae saw was a glowing ball. Only when Seihdhara spoke did Arae realize what was going on.

“Oh, Seihdhara, you fool! I should’ve realized it sooner. You’re still dead; this is just your soul!” Arae groaned. This just created a new set of concerns for Arae to worry about. Though Arae could not see her facial expression, Seihdhara was somewhat taken aback by the goddess' words. “We have to get your body back, and… I-I don’t know, maybe someone can put your soul back in? Ugh, I knew I should’ve dragged your corpse back up from that lake of blood you left behind.”

Arae sighed, then steeled herself. This was no time for dwelling on the past, but rather on the current issue at hand. Turning her full attention to Seihdhara, Arae said, “Ok, Seihdhara, you need to stay safe. I don’t know how vulnerable you are right now, but I am not about to take any chances here. You are to remain with me until we can get you up and alive again, ok? Don’t put yourself in more danger than you already are!” Seihdhara frowned and scratched her brow in confusion and was about to object, but she quickly stopped herself. She was in no danger that she could fathom, but if Rayster wanted to help her out then that was kind enough. She was not entirely sure she enjoyed how the other goddess spoke to her but considered that it would be something to consider another time. Indeed, the manner in which most gods were treating her, now that she thought on it, was slightly bizarre. Brightening up regardless, she gestured at one of the islands below.

Don’t worry yourself Rayster, I can sense the living strand down below. I don’t know what lake of blood you’re talking about, but if I can get to my living strand then it’ll be fine. I just know it! Come, let’s go. And with that, Seihdhara turned about and dashed down towards the small island where she knew the living strand was. As they descended, however, it became apparent that the island was burning and a huge fiery monstrosity was tearing everything apart and consuming just about anything. That’s a big bird. Seihdhara noted, observing how it tore apart anything and everything in its vicinity with abandon. It was quite clearly feeding. Then realisation dawned. We can’t let it eat the strand! Rayster! Quickly! And in a panicked flurry Seihdhara rushed down to save her only remaining link with the physical world and her life beyond the Door. How she would be of any use in her ethereal form she did not know, but she knew she had to be reunited with it regardless.

Rayster? Is that supposed to be my nickname? Arae thought to herself as she followed Seihdhara. It was a bit strange, but when Arae thought about it she realized that she actually liked it. She felt a little flutter of happiness inside her. It felt nice, getting a nickname. Seihdhara’s state of alarm, though, brought Arae back out of her thoughts. “Hair? Wha- hey, wait up!” Arae said, following Seihdhara down to the flaming beast. Arae could sense it had Sartravius’ divine essence all over it, which was not much of a surprise there. She had hoped Sartravius was not going to cause too much trouble, but evidently that was hoping for too much. Still, if it was causing trouble, then all she needed to do was stop it. “Seihdhara, I’ll hold back this flaming creature. You do what you have to do,” Arae said, landing in front of the Phoenix and blocking its path. Seihdhara looked to her sister and, glancing with a small degree of worry at the firebird, nodded.
Be careful though.

As the titanic Phoenix continued to devour the lush forest that covered the small island, it was completely unaware of the approaching goddesses heading towards its location. After all, the famished creature needed all the subsistence it could get before continuing on to the mainland. So when it looked up and noted a large serpentine creature blocking its path, it initially regarded at Arae with absolute confusion. In fact, the creature had no idea that this was a goddess at all. However, noting her rather aggressive stance, the Phoenix dropped the massive log in its mouth and issued an ear-piercing screech at the invader. In addition, it raised its massive wings up into the air in order to make itself appear more intimidating to its newly-found opponent. For every flap it initiated, gale-force winds billowed forth in an attempt to blow away this vile adversary, and chunks of rock and magma dripped from its crusted wings.

As Rayster faced off against the huge firebird, Seihdhara’s soul rushed about searching for her living strand. It was not too difficult given the link she shared with the strand, but the screeching firebird flapping its wings and sending dust and rocks and cinders into the air was certainly not helping. Still, she searched with determination. Meanwhile, Arae dug her claws into the ground as the winds blew into her, enduring the force coming her way. The creature was an annoyance, but Arae was not going to just let it do what it wanted. It needed to be taught a lesson. She roared back at it, trying to intimidate it just as it sought to do to her.

As soon as the Phoenix recognized that its intimidation tactics failed to disperse the rival monster, it quickly proceeded to change tactics. Already its body was glowing a hot crimson red - most prominently under its neck and belly - and fired a concentrated beam of extremely hot heat towards its opponent. As it continued firing, it slowly walked towards the goddess, where the heat would begin to grow even hotter as the source inched closer and closer to her.

Arae took to the sky, dodging the beams of heat as the Phoenix continued to follow her around. That looked rather painful to get hit by, and Arae decided it best to avoid such a thing. All that just meant, though, was that Arae had to get a bit serious herself. Looking down at the ground, Arae had an idea forming in her mind. She manipulated the ground below to mold itself around the Phoenix’s limbs and body in an attempt to hold it in place.

Once the beast found its right foot stuck in the ground, it ceased firing to assess the sudden turn of events. It attempted to get free, yet the dirt below seemed to mold into its feet, sucking them deeper into the ground like molten tar. The Phoenix began frantically trying to lodge itself free. Yet it did not need to. The intense heat radiated through its body - down towards its clawed talons themselves. Quickly the intense heat began to melt the surrounding ground, causing it to liquify and lose its solidity. And with a single flap of its wings, it rose into the sky with a strange grace. Yet the moment would not last as the beast suddenly unleashed its talons and swooped down to grapple the serpentine in its mighty claws. Once within its grasp, it attempted to peck at the downed serpent and get it within its gnarly beak.

As the firebird moved off to strike out at Rayster, Seihdhara suddenly spotted the living strand in the great fiery mess the firebird left in its immediate wake. Beside it was a small fire, but the strand seemed otherwise unharmed. Rushing towards the area, Seihdhara looked down at the strand which in turn was attempting to put out the small fire. On further inspection, Seihdhara realised that the fire was being fuel by- her face twisted in shock. It was the remains of her physical body! Bloody hell, that’s not good, she muttered as she attempted to find a way to put the fire out. There did not seem to be any water in the vicinity - or at least not close enough to get it and be back swiftly enough. The sea was some distance away. She turned to the strand and issued a quick command.

Roll the body in the earth, quickly. Put it out. The great strand, swollen and glowing from exposure to the firebird’s heat, wrapped itself about the body and rolled it over from side to side in swift motions until the flames were out. Inspecting the body expecting ugly burns, Seihdhara was surprised to find that the remains of the body had merely taken on a deeper bronze hue. The cheeks of the corpse radiated heat and - Seihdhara rubbed her eyes - why, it looked almost alive! Her curiosity piqued, fighter goddess bent closer to examine the corpse, the godly battle happening mere handspans from here suddenly forgotten. But the shaking of the earth almost immediately pulled her back to reality and she realised, with urgency, that she needed to get her body and strand out of there. Quickly! Let’s go! She spoke to the strand again. Tightening itself about the glowing corpse, the living strand followed swiftly after Seihdhara’s soul and, safe in the air, watched as Rayster did battle with the firebird. Seihdhara’s eyes registered the combat and she frowned. It did not seem to be going in Rayster's favour at all. Then she spoke into her sister’s mind, offering what assistance she could in the moment.

Rayster, use your body. Immobilise it using your longer form and constrict about it, then apply pressure. Its heat is great, but you are a goddess and will withstand. Once it is immobile, we may demand its submission and ask it why it is bringing about this destruction. Surely it can be reasoned with if it is an aspect of a god, as it seems to be.

Arae managed to grab one set of the firebird's claws with her own clawed hand, but the other managed to get a hold of her body. Its beak was rather painful as well, drops of godly ichor coming out of every hole being put into her. She was about to break free from its grasp when Seihdhara’s voice sounded in her mind. Constrict about it? Arae thought to herself through the pain. She realized that her longer form could give her an advantage like this, and with few other options to try, she settled for this one. Grabbing hold of the Phoenix’s body with her other hand, Arae flexed her body around the Phoenix, attempting to wrap herself around it. The heat of its skin was burning, but as Seihdhara had said, Arae could withstand it. All she needed to do was force the creature back down to the ground.

Once it recognized its quarry attempting to wrap around its body, the Phoenix recognized that it was in trouble. While it did some considerable damage to Arae, it still seemed as though this creature yet had some fight left in her. And the fact that her constrictive capabilities were succeeding even as its skin continued to burn her moist scaly skin was deeply concerning. The pressure that she was applying began to tighten every second. Its breathing began to hasten, attempting to pump more molten ichor and adrenaline into its immense body. But the more it struggled - the more it continued fighting her - the more strength it began to lose.

And soon enough, the Phoenix was forced to descend back onto the ground. Still it did not give up as it attempted to wiggle its way out and forced itself to raise its temperature even more. It also still attempted to peck at it to as far down as its available flexibility could take it. It would do anything just to get itself free from this tight situation. But as Seihdhara watched she knew that it was now merely a matter of time. Rayster had the bird in her grip and it may take an hour or it may take days, but the firebird would soon know sleep. Still, it was worrying how much it had managed to hurt Rayster before she constricted about him. The serpentine goddess would need a quick session in the basics of combat once Seihdhara had managed to get herself out of this situation - indeed, Rayster’s body gave her a number of extremely interesting advantages. She could become a truly lethal combatant if given the correct direction.

Bird! Seihdhara suddenly announced, you have been trounced, so give it up before Rayster here gives you a pounding you’ll not soon forget! And while you’re at it, you have lot of explaining to do. Why have you been destroying things willy-nilly hmm? Who set you up to this? The flame-red soul appeared above the firebird’s head, along with the living strand and glowing corpse.

The Phoenix perked its head to notice a fiery round sphere announce herself to the struggling creature. Its movement ceased momentarily as it angrily listened to what the two beings wanted. They apparently wanted it to explain why it was here and what it was doing destroying stuff. And in fact they wanted to know who was actually responsible. The creature realized that it was a creation rather than a creator. It was silent for a moment, glaring at Seihdhara with its blazing yellow eyes. Then, the two goddesses would receive its voice within their heads.

”I should ask you the same thing,” the Phoenix hissed in a deep raspy voice, ”Why have you both dared to disrupt my feast upon this insignificant patch of green?” Seihdhara glanced at Rayster. She was present here because Seihdhara had attracted her then enlisted her help. Seihdhara had come because she was searching for her living strand. This whole thing had come about because Seihdhara needed to get her living strand and this creature was in the way. But when Seihdhara thought on it, that was not the true reason they had interrupted the firebird, not really. Though circmstances had aligned to make it appear thus (even to herself had she not considered it), it was simply not the case.

We stopped you because no one else did, the goddess said simply. Your feasting has brought about chaos and destruction to a land that was sown and made virile by gods. Maybe in time your wanton destruction would not be a great thing and the land will recover, but in doing what you have done you have destroyed a fragile ecosystem that was not yet robust enough to recover. Or at least you would have had we not stopped you. She looked around, As of now, there is yet hope for recovery. But if you keep going, then divine intervention will be required for life and virility to return. That is why, firebird. Now tell me who sent you, for my senses are dulled and I cannot know.

The fire beast audibly hissed back in response, rattling its body as it tried to get free in that moment before subsiding yet again. ”And why would it matter?” the Phoenix bluntly retorted, ”The way I see it, you two miserable creatures assaulted a being minding its own business! What have I done to you? In fact, I don’t even know who you two are! Let me go and I shall be on my way out of here.” Seihdhara smirked mischievously at the firebird’s words.

Oh birdy birdy. Frustrated that we attacked you for no reason are you? And, in your words, what would it matter if we did? Had you been strong enough it wouldn’t. But you have proven weak and unable to protect yourself, and that’s why it matters. If it is your plan to attack creatures minding their own business as you have done, then prepare to be attacked also. The fox that feasts on the rabbit should not cry for justice when in time the eagle feeds on it. Now I asked you a question and you will answer me. We will release you as soon as we know who your master is and where we can find him. Seihdhara was already pretty certain that none other than Danglydong would create something like this. Her soul form was not able to sense anything much at all down here on Galbar, and Rayster seemed too preoccupied with keeping the firebird down to say much, but she could guess that much at least. What interested her truly was that this firebird’s heat had a strange strengthening effect on her corpse and on her living strand. If that was so, who knew what the heat of Danglydong himself could do - maybe it would even be enough to meld her soul back into her body! Here let me see - you’re a big angry fiery creature out to destroy stuff. Your master’s Donglydong or I’m a three-headed harpie clucking in the rain. Am I right or am I right? She looked down at the firebird, smiling as it she watched it struggle uselessly and waiting on its response.

”I don’t even know who you’re talking about!” the Phoenix replied in a more confused and frustrated tone, ”You will not get a single word from the mighty Phoenix! Not as long as Master Sartr allows~!”

He suddenly stopped his beak as he recognized his utter blunder. Seihdhara smiled down at the firebird knowingly.
Whoopsies, she laughed, plenty of heat from you, Mighty Phoenix, but you're not quite the brightest flame about. So I was right. Ol’ Danglydong it is! Now you should be a good bird and tell your auntie Seihdhara where your papa is hiding. I’m sure Danglydong will be very pleased with you when he finds out that you helped me find him - Danglydong and me go back you see. Good friends him and me.

The winged beast did not know the magnitude of whether or not it had to keep its master’s identity secret, but from the debriefing and what he wanted it to do, it sounded as though the less people knew about him the better. At this point, the creature’s divine ichor was beginning to boil and its skin began to grow even hotter than before. And with a newfound strength of adrenaline boiling through its crusty exterior, it used all of its kept up strength to suddenly break free of its entrapment and once again take to the skies with a mighty screech of pure rage.

”You will not hear anything more from me!” it bellowed furiously, ”When Master Sartr finds out about you both interfering with my gracefulness, you will feel his mighty wrath grind your souls to ash! Now get away from me you miserable lot!”

With a powerful flap of its wings, the Phoenix made a full 180 turn before flying over the two figures with hurricane force winds as it continued on its way to the main continent. And hopefully it would not have to see these two troublemakers again… or at least for a while. For it would complete its master’s orders no matter the circumstances. Seihdhara stared after the firebird with pursed lips and a none-too-impressed expression. The bird seemed genuinely convinced that it could take on just about anything which was both funny and worrying. So long as it did not bump into Narzhak or some other particularly angry god it would be fine, Seihdhara thought. But then again, it was not too bright either so a particularly cunning god might be able to manipulate it somehow, which would not be great. Seihdhara did not know whether to sigh or laugh. In any case, it did not matter. A creature like that would not be able to get too far on a destruction spree before one god or another checked it.

Alright Rayster, you heard that firebird. Danglydong is his master as I thought, and I reckon that big-sworded fellow might be able to help me with a thing or two. Where d'you think he’s hiding? I can’t sense him, or much else really.

Arae lay on her side, letting her belly cool down after all the heat it had endured. She never wanted to do that again. It made her remember how much she disliked combat, at least when it involved her. She may be an immortal goddess, but she still hated feeling pain. “You know, I could have told you myself that Dangly- I mean, Sartravius was his master. Even if we didn’t sense his essence off his creation, it was fairly obvious given the various themes of fire and heat,” Arae said. “And if he’s not on Galbar, then he’s probably in his Sphere like most of us had been before moving to Galbar ourselves.”

“Speaking of Sartravius, we should probably send him a divine message about this,” Arae added. “He may not exactly take kindly to our fight with that fire bird of his.”

Yeah, I know you coulda just told me, but it was funny watching him struggling in the belief that he was keeping some great secret, Seihdhara chuckled. In truth I can’t sense much at all right now. I’ve no idea where Danglydong is or how to contact him - so it’s over to you if you want to help me out. Otherwise I reckon I could find him. Eventually. Probably.

“Hmm. In that case, I’ll message him,” Arae said. “And, uh, I’ve been meaning to say this, but… please, stop saying… ugh, Danglydong.” Seihdhara perked up at this, considered it, then giggled slightly.

On that note, Arae began her message, “Sartravius, if you have any spare time, please come over to Galbar. Seihdhara and I found your Phoenix creature, and it burned through quite a bit of land before we stopped it. Also, Seihdhara needs your help. She’s a little… dead, right now. If you could come, that’d be greatly appreciated. Thank you.” Turning her attention back to Seihdhara, Arae said, “Alright, I’ve sent him a message. Now it’s up to him whether he’ll show up.” Seihdhara nodded at this and looked about her at the destruction. Now they waited.

Within the depths of Muspellheim, the great fire god felt a great ripple of disturbance cross through his mind. Once again sitting within his boiling magma pool, Sartr found his peaceful thoughts about fire and destruction to be disturbed by a goddess’ message. They ran into his Phoenix creation? And he told them what master he served? At this point the fire god did not care for this - so long as Ashalla did not come knocking on his volcanic doorstep. He paused for a minute, thinking on the best plan of action, before responding to Arae.

”HAH!" the fire god scoffed as he rubbed his arms with magma, ”YOU THINK YOU CAN COAX SARTR OUT THAT EASILY? DON’T HUMOR ME WITH SUCH FINATICS! IF YOU WANT TO TALK TO ME, THEN YOU WILL COME TO ME! MEET ME AT MUSPELLHEIM AND WE CAN DISCUSS MATTERS THERE."

Arae sighed, expecting as much from Sartr. It was quite unlikely it was going to be that easy, from what little she knew of Sartravius’s temperament. “Well, Seihdhara, he’s not coming out,” Arae said. “If we want to meet him, we’ll have to go to him. I’ll help you find the entrance to his Sphere.” Seihdhara nodded and the soul, along with the living strand dragging the corpse, leapt onto Rayster’s considerable back.

I’m sure it’ll be simple enough. Just find some place frothing with all kinds of angry fiery stuff. If you fly high and fast it won’t be too long before we spot it. This is Danglydo- uh, Dong that we’re talking about. And so saying, the two goddesses set off. While Seihdhara was reliant solely on her soul's eyes, Arae had the advantage of being able to easily trace her brother’s divine trace and so flew swiftly in a generally north-westerly direction. And so it was not long at all before Seihdhara spotted a great pillar of thick smoke on the horizon. As they grew closer to the pillar, there emerged out of the sea an enormous mountain from whose pinnacle the dark plumes billowed. It was difficult to see from here, but it was immediately obvious to Seihdhara that the gateway to Sartravius’ domain was through this mountain. Seihdhara looked to her living strand as Rayster circled near the top of the mountain (but not quite close enough to be caught in the suffocating smoke) and, with a shout of thanks to the dragon goddess, leapt off her back and made for the mountain at speed. The living strand swiftly did the same, Seihdhara’s corpse in its grip.

As the living strand followed Seihdhara’s soul closer and closer to the mouth of the volcano it only grew in strength and speed, glowing all the brighter. Seihdhara paused at the mouth of the volcano, looking uncertainly behind her at the strand. But the living strand surprised her by leaping right on by her into the volcanic crater. Staring down after it and the corpse for a few moments, Seihdhara braced herself and leapt after them.

Here goes nothing.

Summary

Seihdhara hears Arae and waits for her. The two speak briefly and Seihdhara manages to enlist the other goddess' help in finding her living strand. They descend to an island in the Eye of Desolation and find it being ravaged by the Phoenix. Seihdhara is worried the Phoenix might eat her living strand, and so Arae distracts the creature while Seihdhara searches. Eventually the strand is found and Arae manages to briefly immobilise the Phoenix. The Phoenix reveals that Sartr is its master, though such was obvious. The Phoenix escapes and Arae contacts Sartr on Seihdhara's behalf. He invites Seihdhara to his Sphere if she wishes to speak. They head to Mt Muspell and Seihdhara, along with her living strand and upper corpse, jump right in. Arae flies off, her job complete.

World of Light

Geno: *To Bowser* Well... I guess I was technically right?

*Panickly shoves Mario to Kirby/Master*

REVIVE THIS MAN NOW AND PLEASE THANK YOU

<sub>Edit: Btw I'll wait for more people to post (like Draco) first before I post my portion.

Also I imagine Kirby is still where exactly?</sub>

World of Light

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Level 3 - (12/30) EXP
Location: Scrapyard
Word Count: 1,257

Affliction: Boosted - (0 Posts Remaining)
Boost Cool-down Time: (T-7 Posts)

_{Direct Mentions: @Stern Algorithm, @DracoLunaris, @Lugubrious, @Archmage MC, @Star Lord}

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Geno listened carefully to Din's first explanation in how to revive Mario. She showed him what appears to be some sort of blade - one shaped into a key - and explained that the "Master of Masters" used it to revive someone named "Roadhog". According to her finger, the latter was an interesting man to say the least - with a tall yet round stature while also wearing an ominous-looking mask. Better for him to be on their side now rather than an enemy at this rate. However, the young woman also warned that she'd be most unlikely to succeed in such a procedure due to how unwieldy such a keyblade could be.

"I see..." the puppet sighed understandingly.

When he asked about the robed figure, Din would confirm him to be the "Master of Masters", noting his mysterious yet knowledgable aura regarding the state of this world. While he glanced over at him, a robot healer came over to greet him before fully healing the damage on him.

"Thank you." Geno kindly thanked the bot before turning his attention back to Din.

"'Master of Masters, he calls himself...?" he wondered puzzlingly over as he carefully examined the figure from afar, "Hm... that's quite a bold proclamation if I've ever heard one."

Din would soon begin to explain the second option in how to free Mario. She asked if the puppet recalled how Kirby saved them from the Seraphim's influence. Geno looked up at the hovering deity hovering in the far distance and nodded accordingly.

"I do." he answered, "You mean that he could revive my friend back to his normal self?"

The young woman seemed to confirm this possibility. She tried to explain how Kirby - who's now awake to Geno's relief - demonstrated something to Courier 6, the rugged-looking man with the brown leather coat, that hinted to how he must've revived the entire group as is. Whatever he demonstrated may be the key in release all of the other possessed fighters. Din then offered herself to try and demonstrate whatever Kirby did. Curious, the puppet stood back and let her do the "magic". She rose her arms into the air and issued a tiny squeak akin to the pink puffball's.

Geno waited for several moments, staring at her with his hazelnut-eyes, before looking back at Mario. Nothing seemed to be working. Was this part of the ritual? He looked at Din again before uttering his sense of confusion.

"It... didn't work?" he asked puzzlingly while scratching his head.

Din released her disappointment as she suggested that Courier might want to do it. The puppet seemed to doubt him as a possibility at this point. He didn't look to be the sort of person who would use magic at all. He was about to suggest something else before he heard the sarcastic bellow of the Koopa King come stomping up behind him. And the puppet seemed to already know what the topic of the conversation will primarily consist of. Regardless, he turned to face Bowser and looked up at his meaty snout.

"Ah, sire." the star warrior humbly greeted their team leader, "I didn't expect for everyone to arrive here so soon. How is~?"

The Koopa King immediately dispersed the pleasantries and cut straight to the topic at hand - that being the unconscious plumber whom he utterly abhors. There was a dreadful venom that emitted in his words, one that Geno knew all to well regarding their history. He had to cool his temper down before he'd become the group's next torchlight.

"I found him within the Castle." the puppet calmly explained while pointing to said building, "He was possessed by the seraphim as well. While I had no choice but to fight him, I chose to spare him and bring him here alive. I was told that there's someone here is able to disperse the influence off him."

The tensioned that filled the air would last momentarily, however Bowser ultimately subsided his anger and pointed Geno in the direction of the "Master of Masters" whom would help release Mario from "Galeem's bogus". Was that the name they gave to the Seraphim? Perhaps it was somewhat fitting giving how he "gleams" in the sky for miles on end. But the bigger question revolved around the hooded man's influence. Can he really bring his friend back to his former self as well? Do both he and Kirby have such unique powers to revive all those from Galeem's influence? This made him more hopeful of the situation.

"I shall go and see him." Geno replied in a rather cheerful manner.

But as he began to drag Mario to the Master, Din would approach Bowser and ask him about Kirby. She suggested that it would be better for Geno to see him instead, rather than the energy deprived Master. The puppet took a quick glance at the hooded man and did note how tired he happened to be after the battle. Maybe it was best if he given him some room to recover. He continued listening as Din mentioned how Kirby released a "heart-shaped thing" after he did the stance that she did to much success. She made it sound like anyone could do it. However, Geno was beginning to understand that perhaps it would be best for him to visit the other fellow star warrior himself for help. Because while he knew very little about him from Mario and even his brother Luigi, he was told that he had an affinity for his world's magic. He knew what he had to do.

"Then let me speak to Kirby." he replied somewhat woodenly in tone, "If what you say is true, then he will be the one to initiate the process."

Suddenly, their conversation would be interrupted by an angry Roadhog who demanded answers about what was going on. Armed with a shotgun, this giant of a man was no one to slouch at. Geno wanted little to deal with him, however he was still forced to at the very least keep his arm cannon on standby if he decided to go berserk.

Then again, he couldn't blame him for his attitude either. In essence, he was just like the rest of them - brought into this world against his will and with no idea as to why he's here - and asking why is everything and anything. The Master of Masters ought to explain everything to them soon, but for the time being Geno continued to search for wherever Kirby was.

Then Bowser would return to see Geno and asked him what he saw in the castle. After all, he did mention he was going to scout ahead. Luckily for him, there was stuff that he had seen within.

"Most of the castle seems to replica of the real structure," the puppet continued, "The first floor seemed to be the same and I believe Toads are still within her walls. However, there's a complex dungeon labyrinth underneath it that housed several notable figures. Mario wasn't the only figure I found down there. Donkey Kong and a small purple dragon were also present, although I believe they must've escaped by now."

He paused for a second before he remembered a key portion of information.

"And I must not forget," the puppet continued, "Speaking of the latter, I found him within a laboratory room, where he was experimented on by your own advisor, Kamek. He seemed to serve some 'King' of his... and from the sounds of it, I didn't believe he meant "Your Awfulness" either."

World of Light

Ooof, maybe I should've waited for Bowser's post before actually posting. I could possibly make a secondary post that addresses both him and, once @Stern Algorithm posts, Din herself.

World of Light

---

Level 3 - (9/30) EXP
Location: Scrapyard (Battle Finished)
Word Count: 597

Affliction: Boosted - (1 Post Remaining)

_{Direct Mention: @Stern Algorithm}

---

Geno's participation in the battle against the hard-hat and the omnic robot was extremely limited, yet despite this he did all he could to pick out any approaching enemies from afar. He can already see that the battle was already seeming to wrap up, especially considering how much ground his allies were taking. But even then, Geno dared not to abandon his friend and leave him vulnerable to be picked off by any lingering hostiles still around. In fact, when a rather large omnic came rolling up behind him and prepared to fire, the puppet was quick to turn and fire off several blasts from his arm cannon. In just three shots to its chest piece, the hulking robot exploded in a ball of fire and metallic debris. And when several rabbids came creeping in to inspect the fallen plumber, they would immediately be forced to retreat as they looked down the barrel of the wooden cannon.

But just as Geno would be able to continue providing cover fire, he would suddenly hear a feminine voice call out his name. He ducked under cover before turning to his right to see a young woman running towards her. She introduced herself as Din - who was also part of the resistance group - and asked if he required healing.

"I am fine, thank you." the puppet replied politely, "I didn't expect you all to get here so quick."

Din would then ask about his unconscious mustached friend, asking who and how he got him here.

"Yes," he confirmed to her, "He is an old friend of mine. Mario is his name. But~"

The woman would then ask if he was still possessed, in which Geno nodded sadly.

"I found him as a metallic statue in the dungeons below the Castle," he explained bluntly, "When I released him, he didn't recognize me, and forced me into combating him. He's unconscious now, but I wish to find someone who can revert him back to his actual self - if... that's possible at least."

Din stated how she had two possible ideas in how to purify and revive Mario back to his former self and asked if she should. Geno was still somewhat cautious of this decision. It would take the puppet a few long seconds before he could answer.

"What are your options?" he asked warily.

But before anything else could happen, both would be able to hear the cries and cheers of victory coming from the allies themselves. Indeed, it didn't take long before the allies mopped up the last of the enemy opponents - including the two stronger "bosses". The whole sight invigorated the puppet's spirit tenfold. Even though they'd won only a single battle in an ever growing war against the seraphim, the star warrior believed that in time they would finally earn the strength and manpower needed to beat the divine conquerer and restore peace into the multiversal realm. But of course, he couldn't forget the utter carnage - including the wounded allies - that were littered across the scrapyard. This war will be anything but short and easy. And he must prepare for the absolute worse case scenarios should they - nay, once they - rear their ugly heads.

It was then when Geno noticed a hooded person amongst their ranks - one whom he vaguely saw upon his departure to the castle. Something about him both seemed off, yet strangely benevolent in nature. Curious as to who he was, he pointed his wooden-knobbed finger towards him for Din to see.

"And if I may ask," the puppet mentioned peculiarly, "Who is that person?"