//------------------------------// // Chapter 1 Part 2 // Story: Paper Mario: The Land of Harmony // by Blade Squall //------------------------------// Eastern San Palomino Desert “…So, let me get this straight,” Mario asked, holding a warm, freshly baked Apple Pie in his hands as they walked, while he and Spike took care of any Koopa Troopas, Paratroopas, and Spiked Goombas in their path. “You honestly think Chief Thunderhooves will listen to you?” “It’s better than doing nothing, Mario,” Spike shrugged. “Who knows what these Bandits are doing with the Element of Harmony or what they’re going to do with Appleloosa? And we know they found their way into the Buffalo Burial Grounds somehow… and I doubt the Buffalo tribe would allow that.” “I sure hope you know what you’re doing, Spike,” Mario remarked. With that, the two kept walking— BOOM! …Until a sudden mass landed in front of them with no warning. Mario and Spike looked at each other, Mario barely holding onto the pie, until the dust lifted up from the impact settled, revealing a dizzy looking gray Pegasus mare. The Pegasus had a messy blonde mane and tail, and her eyes, despite her dizziness, seemed to look in opposite directions. She wore a pair of brown saddlebags that reminded the plumber of his Parakoopa mailman. Finally, the mare’s Cutie Mark was a group of bubbles. “…I’ve really got to work on my landings. I still don’t know what went wrong,” the gray Pegasus groaned as she stood up and shook her head. She looked at the duo before blinking in surprise. “Red cap… blue overalls… mustache… you must be this Mr. Mario I needed to look for!” “Uh, you were asked to look for me?” Mario questioned. “Yep,” the mare smiled. “I’m Derpy Hooves… but I also go by Ditzy Doo. Either or! I’m a mailpony, and it’s my job to deliver letters! Hold on a moment.” With that, she turned to her bags, and dug through them, revealing three envelopes. “Mff frr yoo! (Mail for you!)” she said through her muffled snout. Spike took the envelopes from Derpy. “Thanks, Derpy!” the baby Dragon smiled. “Tell Dinky and Sparkler I said hi!” “I will!” Derpy smiled. “Have a fun adventure, everypony!” With that, she flew away, leaving Mario confused while Spike looked over the return addresses on each of them. “Hey, one of these is from Goombella… and this is from the New Yolk Times! They’re the national news throughout the region. This last one’s from the Cutie Mark Crusaders. I’ll hold onto any letters we get during this journey until you want to read them, okay?” “Alright,” Mario nodded. “Well, what does Goombella’s letter say?” With that, Spike opened Goombella’s letter, and began to read it for Mario. Mario, I hope you and Spike’s adventure to find the Elements of Harmony is going well. I know I said I’d rather be traveling out there with you, but I’m still with you in spirit. Anyways, just like Prof. Frankly before me, I just want to inform you that I took the liberty of signing you up for the New Yolk Times official mailing service! This way, you’ll get updated about the various happenings throughout Equestria, including shops updates, special events in certain locations, even releases on the stories written by a Mr. DLC… whoever he is. Anyways, I’m still hard at work here in Ponyville trying to pin down those landing spots. Good luck to you, Mario, and I hope to see you again, soon! Sincerely, Goombella “Good to see Goombella thought ahead with that,” Mario voiced. Looking at the second letter Spike opened- a blue one- he asked, “I take it the New Yolk Times letter is about us being registered in the service?” Dear Mr. Mario, We thank you for your registration with our new mail news feed via your friend Goombella. We would like to encourage you to take the time getting used to Equestria’s mail delivery service. During your time in our kingdom, we will be keeping you updated on certain events and happenings that will occur at times throughout the land. Also, be sure to save your game often. You don’t know when you might kick the bucket, so it’s better to be safe than sorry and avoid sitting through the same long scene more than once after traveling a long distance. Expect new announcements very soon. Thank you, The New Yolk Times “They’re certainly a strange bunch,” Mario commented. “So, what do the three fillies have to say?” Dear Mario & Spike, We’re writing to let you know that we’re getting started on the BEST idea ever! Since Rarity’s not around to run her shop, we figured we might try to get our Cutie Marks by running it ourselves! We also have a new idea that will knock off everypony’s socks off with it! Now, before you ask, Sweetie Belle’s Mom and Dad have agreed to help us out with it, since Rarity’s been kidnapped. You’ll get to see when you get back. Good luck on your journey, XOXO, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, & Sweetie Belle “Whatever those three are up to is going to be interesting when we get back,” Spike commented. “Let’s get to the Buffalo Camp before we get distracted by something else.” “That’s going to be a bit of a problem, Spike,” Mario remarked. Spike looked up to see that there was a huge fallen stone cactus blocking the path with a gap that was only big enough for a Pig to squeeze through, and a large red teepee next to them. “Seriously?” Spike growled. “This HAD to happen, didn’t it? How are we going to get past this?” Mario noticed a nearby bush, which he rustled through to get a Red Key. “What does that go to?” Spike asked. “I don’t know,” Mario shrugged. “Maybe someone lost it?” He then looked at the teepee, and curiously looked inside. “Hello? Anyone home?” Mario and Spike entered the teepee, where they noticed a huge red treasure chest lying in the middle of the room. Mario approached it, curious about the chest. He went to open it… only to jump, waving his hands off due to a sudden burn in the chest. “Mario, are you okay?” Spike asked. “That chest… it felt like it was on fire!” Mario explained. Spike, curious, walked over to it, and tried touching it. While it was hot, his dragon scales made the burning sensation mild. Despite this, the baby Dragon could not force the chest open. “Well, while it’s warm,” Spike agreed, “I’ve swam in lava once, so this isn’t anything too hot. Phoenixes are worse, though. Anyways, I can’t open it….” “…Did somepony try to open the Cursed Chest?” a female voice spoke up from nowhere. Mario and Spike looked around, confused. “Hello! Whoever you are, please hear me! I’m trapped in this Cursed Chest that is using my Papergami Power of Fire! Please, honorable traveler. Help me out, and I will gladly return the favor!” Mario looked at the chest, raising an eyebrow. “You wouldn’t happen to be a demon inside, waiting with a powerful curse, would you?” “…What.” “Yeah,” Mario explained. “It’s a long story. But to make it short, there was this funny adventure I had in the Rogueport area where upon releasing each of them from giant treasure chests, four demons cursed me with interesting Paper Powers… are you going to do something similar?” “Wait a moment,” the creature inside the chest commented, confused. “Let me get this straight. Because you’ve been magically cursed before by treasure chest demons you think I’m going to do the same?” “Yes,” Mario remarked. “Unless you’re NOT a demon, I’m afraid this conversation is over.” “The last time I’ve checked,” the chest trapped creature replied, “I’m pretty sure I’m a Pegasus pony. Did the demons’ chest have elemental Papergami powers preventing ponies from opening them due to what happens to whoever touched the chest?” “…No?” Mario answered, remembering the chests. “Good,” the red chest answered. “Please, traveler… I’ve been cramped in here so long… I need any help I can get. I will help you if you release me! You have my word as a Papergami Kunochi!” “Wait,” Spike voiced, scowling. “Papergami? You wouldn’t happen to know somepony by the name ‘Arctic’, would you?” The creature sealed in the chest was silent for a moment. “You know of Arctic?” Soon enough, Mario and Spike jumped back as the chest suddenly erupted into flames. “That cold-hearted, wise-guy, cheating, arrogant TRAITOR is the reason why I’ve been trapped in here! And he’s still running around, no doubt!” Mario and Spike watched as the chest’s flames extinguished themselves. “…Please tell me you are not friends of his.” “Uh, no,” Spike answered. “If he’s with Sirius Nebula, he’s a foe of ours! With the way Arctic treated Twilight, Rarity, and everypony else… I’ll never forgive him!” “Then we have a common enemy,” the chest creature replied. “…And from what I’m sensing, you aren’t anywhere near the level of Papergami needed to fight that cheating liar Arctic, or do battle with the pony he pledged his allegiance to, despite how ridiculously quirky his personality is. Alright, travelers, I’ll throw in a second part of my offer to help you. Somewhere near this teepee lies a Red Key. This key will undo the magic seal on this chest, and will allow me to finally escape. In exchange for releasing me, I will help you out in more ways than what I was going to before.” “…I better not regret this,” Mario muttered aloud before pulling out the key and jamming it into the keyhole on the chest. Soon enough, after a click, the chest’s red color gave way to a crisp black. “FINALLY!” the voice inside commented. Soon enough, the lid of the chest sprung open, and a red blur emerged, practically bouncing off of the walls of the teepee, eventually stopping in front of them. It was a three dimensional paper pig of a red color. The pig then unfolded itself, soon replaced by a female Pegasus mare. Like Arctic before her, a jumpsuit garbed most of her body, this being black. But Mario and Spike could see the red fur she had, as well as the brown mane in a short ponytail and tail. The Pegasus bowed to the two. “I thank you again, travelers,” she greeted. “I am Wildfire, a Papergami Kunochi and Mistress of Fire and Sunny Weather. It is the Papergami Ninja’s Way to protect Equestria’s weather from outsiders and evildoers who would dare come to our lands. One of the best ninjas in our ranks was none other than Arctic. He was strong, brave, intelligent… and once upon a time, I fell for his looks before he cheated on me with several other mares. However, Arctic carried a cruel, icy heart, and the clan leaders grew fearful of his growing darkness and ruthlessness. Arctic was ousted, but not before he stole vital secrets that could have ended the Papergami… so, me and four others were ordered to pursue him and end his treachery. Considering how he broke my heart, I was not hesitant to follow these orders.” “So,” Spike interjected, “if you’re supposed to be some kind of all powerful ninja pony who controls the exact opposite element of Arctic, how in Equestria did he beat YOU?” “I don’t know, Spike,” Mario voiced. “In the Mushroom Kingdom, Fire and Ice seem to be effective against each other. Sounds like they were evenly matched….” “Allow me to explain,” Wildfire answered. “Truth be told, my team and I had cornered Arctic after some time and were ready to finish him once and for all… but Arctic had help in the form of newfound allies, one of whom was Sirius Nebula. My team was all Pegasus ponies and was only equipped to combat one foe while Sirius’ group was made of all kinds of species… we hardly stood a chance in the fight and were overwhelmed quickly. Then, Arctic, to make sure we did not stop him and his newfound alliance, sealed all of us in Cursed Chests like these and scattered us throughout Equestria. It’s kind of doubtful Arctic allowed other pursuers from our clan to follow him.” “Sounds like your ex really is powerful,” Spike concluded. “He even defeated Twilight, Rarity, and everypony even when they had the Elements of Harmony.” “With an ambush, no doubt,” Wildfire concluded. “The Elements of Harmony, I have heard of in my time, but Arctic has an element on his side much more powerful than the six… the Element of Surprise.” Shaking her head, Wildfire scowled, “And that stallion is running around with another victory over his head. I hate him!” Turning to Mario, she said, “So, I take it you will fight Arctic someday?” “I guess I’ll have to, eventually,” Mario replied. “He is a member of the Colts of Nocturne and seems high-ranking. But how do you beat someone who took down six powerful ponies at once by ambushing them?” “You become just as powerful, of course,” Wildfire answered. “Now, in order to keep up with a true Papergami Master like Arctic, you must become one, yourself. It’s lesson time, Mr. Mustache Man!” “My name’s Mario,” the plumber scowled, getting annoyed by all of the times he was called “Mustache Man”. “Very well, then,” the red Papergami expert began. “First off, let’s teach you Paper Mode! You see, you and everypony else with you will need to flip into a two-dimensional fold so slim that you can even slip through thin gaps-” “Uh, I can already do that,” Mario responded. “Those Cursed Demons taught me it.” “By holding down the R Button on the GamePad?” Wildfire questioned, surprised that Mario had known this. “Show me.” “I don’t know what the R Button is,” Mario replied, “but I’ll be more than happy to show you.” With that, Mario flipped towards his side, rendering himself so thin that Spike and Wildfire could hardly see him. Mario even walked around to demonstrate his ability to use it. “Perhaps these Cursing Demons were Papergami experts after all?” Wildfire questioned before Mario returned to his normal mode. “Well, that’s the basic move you have down. Try not to stay in that for too long, though. You’ll wear yourself down if you hold it for too long. Now, for a little more complex folding technique. While in Paper Form, you’re going to what to tap the ZR Button on the back of the GamePad in order to render yourself completely flat on the ground. That’s when the true Papergami folding technique begins. From there, you’ll want to select the Pig Form.” “Pig Form?” Mario and Spike asked, surprised. “Yeah, a Paper Pig,” Wildfire commented. “First, go into Paper Form.” Mario and Wildfire both did so. “Now, then… press ZR to lay as flat on the ground as you can….” Mario did not know what the ZR Button was, but he just went with it and lied flat on the ground with Wildfire. “Now, you cannot see this, but somepony in another dimension holding the GamePad can… there should be a wheel of special Papergami forms floating in front of the screen. Right now, the only Papergami power that should be up there is Pig Form. They can simply use the Right Analog Stick to select it, followed by the A Button once you confirm your fold.” “You know,” Spike scowled, “I was only joking, earlier, when I said this would be a new power. I didn’t really mean it.” “Once you have selected your special fold, Mario, a sequence of buttons you need to hit should appear on the screen. Once you hit the starting button to begin the sequence, hit all of the buttons at the exact time, and you should become a Paper Pig in time.” As if to demonstrate what she meant, Wildfire’s body began folding itself, until gone was the Pegasus, and in her spot was a red and black three-dimensional paper pig. “Now,” the pig voiced, “you try!” Mario did not know what this all meant, but he shrugged. Soon Mario felt his body folding, but rather than painful crumpling that he felt days ago, he became… something else. Soon, gone was the plumber. In Mario’s place there stood a red, M cap wearing, mustached paper pig. “Uh… oink?” Mario’s voice came from the pig. “Wow,” Spike breathed. “Can I do that?” “I’m surprised you didn’t do that, yourself,” Wildfire’s Pig Form replied. “Try it, baby Dragon.” Soon enough, a purple and green paper pig emerged from Spike’s spot. “Good… you have learned your true first Papergami form. While as a pig, you can crawl through tight gaps you couldn’t before. Unfortunately, you can’t really jump in this form, so think about where you wish to go before you use it. Also, beware of using this ability far from farming communities or towns. Enemies may find it suspicious, but while you’re near a town, they’ll pay you no mind.” “Uh, that’s great and everything,” Mario asked, “but how do I return to normal Mario?” “Oh, right,” Wildfire thought aloud. “I almost forgot about that. The reason why you can’t jump in this form? Hitting the A Button will spring you straight out of the fold.” With that, Wildfire sprang out of her Pig Form, and returned to normal. “Try it!” Both Mario and Spike returned to normal as well. “Also, one final lesson… if you ever want to fast change into that Pig Form, you don’t always have to go through all of the steps I’ve taught you. Just hit the ZL Button, and you SHOULD begin the folding process right away to your default Papergami technique… and since Pig Form is your default right now, it should be no problem having it there.” “That seems rather redundant to go through all of the selecting power process,” Spike commented. “Well, remember my teammates that were trapped like me?” Wildfire answered. “I’m pretty sure they’ll help you the same way I did if you freed them.” “So, what happens now?” Mario asked, looking at Wildfire. “Now?” Wildfire asked. “I train to prepare myself to help you defeat Arctic. I’ve been cramped in that chest for too long to properly assist you on that journey… take my technique, Mario, and use it in my stead. When the time to fight Arctic comes, I will join you to defeat him!” “Uh, thanks,” Mario nodded. Wildfire spread her wings. “May Celestia guide you on this quest!” the fiery Pegasus yelled, flying out of the teepee. Spike and Mario looked at each other, blinking in confusion. “So,” the baby Dragon asked, “do you want to use that new technique we just learned to get past the stone cactus?” “Oh, right,” Mario recalled. “That’s right outside, isn’t it?” “Yeah,” Spike answered. With that, the duo headed outside, using their newfound Papergami technique, they crawled under the log, and sprung back to normal. With that obstacle out of the way, the two continued their journey with no further delays… save for Koopa Troopas. --- Appleloosa Jailhouse Silverstar leaned back and forth in his chair, waiting for news from Mario and Spike. “Ah sure hope those two boys ain’t got into too much trouble,” he spoke aloud. “That Mario feller looks like he’s been through many scraps, but Spike… well, he may be a Dragon, but he’s only a baby. Poor little guy would be in o’er his head if he were goin’ it alone.” Soon enough, the door to the jailhouse opened, revealing a female Koopa Troopa. She had a bright yellow shell and brown hair beneath a white bonnet with a red cross on the front. Beneath her shell was a teal dress with a bright white apron. In her hands was a freshly baked Fried Shroom. “Um… howdy, sheriff,” the Koopa said in a gentle voice. “Dr. Karoline,” Silverstar greeted, tipping his hat. “What brings ya ’round these parts?” “Ah know he’s a convict an’ all,” Karoline nervously explained, “but… well, there’s somethin’ ’bout Boomregard that makes me worry about him. He was roughed up somethin’ awful when ya brought him to me days ago, an’ his wounds didn’t seem like anythin’ heavy fell on top o’ him. In fact, Ah’d say the reason he doesn’t remember who he was involved several attackers… like the rest o’ his injuries.” “Ah see,” Silverstar commented, looking towards the back. “Ya don’t think Guylan an’ the Skull Boys betrayed him, do ya, doc?” “Ah can’t say that fer certain,” Karoline answered. “Has he recovered from his amnesia, yet?” “Ah’m ’fraid not, ma’am,” Silverstar replied. “So, why did ya bring that there Fried Shroom?” “Truth be told, it’s… fer Boomregard,” the Koopa blushed. “Ah was thinkin’ maybe some Mushroom Kingdom delicacies could help refresh his memory… maybe we can find out if he’s the real Boomregard.” Silverstar smirked, seeing the nervous blush many times. “Let me guess, doc… ya like him, don’t ya?” Karoline’s blush deepened. “Ah didn’t think a good Koopa like yerself would go fer a bad Boomerang Bro.” “W-w-well,” she nervously stammered, “Ah can’t deny that he’s handsome fer a rogue… but well, Ah’m attracted to cases like this. Ah mean, no memory o’ who he was ’cept fer everyone tellin’ him he’s a wanted criminal with a bounty on his head? The possibility that he’s not the real criminal, just someone who was in the wrong place at the wrong time? An unknown Koopa wrapped in the middle o’ a war fer Appleloosa… call me a girl who’s read too many stories as a kid, but it’s stuff like that which makes me feel so excited.” Silverstar shook his head. “Okay, doc,” the sheriff commented, taking the Fried Shroom off of the Koopa’s hands. “Ah’ll humor ya an’ give this to Boomregard. Wanna come see him?” “Ah can’t,” Karoline declined. “Ah’d love to, but Ah have a few more patients to attend to. Tell him Ah said hi, though.” With that, Karoline turned around, and walked out of the jail, leaving Silverstar alone. Silverstar trotted towards Boomregard’s cell, carrying the tray of Fried Shroom on his mouth. “Eat up, partner,” Silverstar instructed the Boomerang Bro. Boomregard looked at the food, and curiously took a bite. He smiled. “Ah don’t get ya, sheriff,” the amnesiac Boomerang Bro voiced. “Ya lock me up in here, question me on a daily basis in some convoluted hope that Ah remember anythin’ ’bout what mah apparent comrades are up to, an’ give me actual food to eat? You ponies really are too generous.” “Appleloosa may have been the newest town in Equestria,” Silverstar answered, “but we have a history, buddy. Ya see, not sharin’ the land is what got us in a tussle with the Buffalo tribe in the first place. Well, that, an’ somepony awfully cheesy musical numbers, but Ah digress. We’ve learned our lesson, Boomregard.” Soon enough, the door to the jailhouse opened, revealing Kooper. “Oh… it’s one o’ Kolorado’s boys. Look, Kooper, right? Tell yer boss he ain’t diggin’ in the desert, an’ Ah expect the lot o’ ya out o’ town by the mornin’ if ya’ll intend to keep this up—” “Actually,” Kooper explained, cutting off Silverstar, “I’m not here because of Prof. Kolorado. I’m kind of here to help Mario.” He then walked over to the sheriff, and then whispered something in the Earth Pony’s ear. Silverstar’s eyes widened. “Are ya’ll insane!?” Silverstar asked aloud. “It’s the only thing I can come up with,” Kooper. “I’d help Mario myself if I wasn’t keeping Prof. Kolorado from doing something crazy for the sake of unraveling history’s secrets.” “But… why him?” Silverstar demanded. “It’s a simple reason, sheriff…” Kooper began. --- Buffalo Camp Mario and Spike had finally arrived at the camp towards high noon. By that time, both were exhausted. Luckily for them, someone had the decency to set up a Heart Block for Mario and Spike to heal up with (at the cost of a few coins) before meeting up with Chief Thunderhooves. Speaking of the chief, of all of the Buffalo Mario saw wearing eagle feathers and headbands, the chief was the easiest to make out. Thunderhooves was a dark brown bison wearing a dark blue headband adored with a full set of feathers in the front of the headband instead of just one or two. He was talking to a female light brown female calf with blonde hair, a purple and white headband, and two feathers in the back. The calf noticed Spike right away. “Spike!” she cheered, surprised. “It’s been so long since I’ve last seen you!” “Little Strongheart! Chief Thunderhooves!” Spike grinned. “How have you both been?” “We have been rather well since we’ve made peace with the settlers,” the chief, Thunderhooves, answered. “Have you come to watch our yearly stampede, young purple Dragon?” “Uh, not exactly,” Spike nervously commented. “You see, we’re on a quest….” “A quest?” Strongheart asked. She then noticed Mario standing close to Spike. “Spike, who is this mustached man traveling with you? And where are your friends Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash.” “Please do NOT mention the pink one in my presence, Little Strongheart,” Thunderhooves scowled. “Her song was TERRRIBLE.” “This is my new friend, Mario,” Spike introduced. “And as for where everypony is… Mario, do you want me to tell it, or do you want to tell it?” “I’m actually getting tired of recounting what happened,” Mario answered. “It actually gets sadder with everyone’s reactions….” Regardless, Mario and Spike took turns explaining to the Buffalo tribe about the incident in Canterlot with the Colts of Nocturne, Sirius having the Bearers ambushed and kidnapped, their defeat by Sirius, the sealing of Canterlot’s populace, and the scattering of the Elements of Harmony. By the time the two were done, Thunderhooves and Strongheart stood, shocked at the turn of events. “And that’s kind of everything,” Spike finished. “So now, we’re on a quest with the help of one of Mario’s old friends Goombella guiding us from Ponyville, to recover the Elements of Harmony before the Colts of Nocturne do, so we can rescue everypony.” Thunderhooves’ shocked expression turned to a scowl. “This is a serious matter, young Dragon,” the chief declared. “And this supports my daughter’s claim….” “I saw the orange star land in the desert, too,” Strongheart voiced. “To think it was one of the ponies’ Elements of Harmony… and we failed to recover it for the ponies before those Bandits who had harassing Appleloosa’s settlers did. You have my sincerest apologies, Spike.” “It’s alright,” the baby Dragon assured her. “Still,” Thunderhooves voiced, “this leaves one question unanswered… if you knew all of this, then why waste time you could use to hunt for the Bandits to come to us?” “Uh, yeah, about that,” Mario voiced. “First off… I kind of have something for you.” With that, Mario handed over the Apple Pie Silverstar made him carry all of the way over here. “I take it this is the so called ‘Honey and Tomahawk’ method,” Thunderhooves remarked at the scenario. “You’ve given me the Honey… now what’s the Tomahawk?” “We kind of need to know where your people’s ancient Burial Grounds are,” Mario answered, nervous about how much mass Thunderhooves had on him. The chief’s eyes scowled before he reared up and slammed his front hooves on the ground, imitating thunder and startling Mario and Spike. “OUT OF THE QUESTION!” Thunderhooves roared, practically steaming. “That is hallowed ground, traveler! My father is buried there, as was my grandfather, and my grandfather’s father! We may have made peace with the pony settlers, over the ancient stampeding grounds, but our burial site is for the eyes of my tribe! No exceptions! What on EARTH makes you think I will be so willing to divulge that secret!?” “Chief Thunderhooves,” Spike attempted to justify, “your people’s Burial Grounds are already invaded by somepony. Guylan and his Bandits the Skull Boys are supposedly using the Buffalo Burial Grounds as their base of operations while they harass Appleloosa, and are about to strike during your annual stampede. We need in there to get the Element of Harmony back.” Thunderhooves’ rage subsided at this news. “…Hmm…” the chief scowled. “…Perhaps… give me time to think on this. I must consult the spirits and my fellow tribe members. Talk to me later.” With that, Thunderhooves walked away. “…You must forgive him, Spike,” Little Strongheart commented as soon as she was certain Thunderhooves was out of earshot. “My father values our tribe’s traditions very strongly. Everyone here does.” “Couldn’t you tell us?” Mario asked. “I mean, you’re the chief’s daughter….” “I am,” Strongheart answered. “However, I cannot tell you, travelers, no matter how noble your cause. This is my father’s decision, not mine. I can only wish you both the best for your journey. Anyways, Spike, we have some turquoise gemstones if you’re hungry….” “My favorite gemstone, huh?” Spike grinned. Nodding, he answered, “Sure.” While Little Strongheart trotted away, Spike was about to follow her, only for Mario to stop him. “I guess that went about as well as I imagined it,” Mario voiced. “It’s doubtful he’ll just let us waltz in with how angry he was….” “He has to,” Spike argued. “It works out for both us and the Buffalo Tribe. We get rid of the band of thieves for the Buffalo, and we get the first Element of Harmony we need to save everypony. It’s simple, right?” “Spike,” Mario answered, “in all of my years with adventuring, rescuing Peach, and beating villains, I’ve come to learn that nothing is as simple as that. Especially when it comes to dealing with guardians of ancient places.” “Wow, really?” Spike asked. “I guess having real quests is harder than it looks, isn’t it.” Mario and Spike were about to walk on, when two shadows appeared above them. “I’m sorry, young Dragon,” a voice above them commented. “I think I’ve misheard you. Did you mention the Elements of Harmony?” Mario and Spike looked up to see two Pegasus stallions floating above them. The way the two were dressed made them look like pirates- red bandanas wrapped around their heads, brown sashes around their waists, white and red striped sailor shirts, black pants to cover bottom halves, and brown boots on their hooves. The two landed on either side of Mario and Spike, trapping them between the two of them. The one on the left was a brown Pegasus, while the one on the right was a dark blue. “Uh… who are you guys?” Mario asked. “We’re none other than a pair of lovable Pegasus rogues who fly around the skies of Equestria, relieving royal airships, Diamond Dogs, Dragons, and Griffon soldiers of their valuables,” the Pegasus on the right explained. “Or, to put it bluntly, we’re Pegasirates.” “Okay,” Spike commented aloud, “Papergami Ninjas are one thing, but Sky Pirate Pegasus Ponies? Equestria just keeps getting weirder and weirder since the Elements were scattered. Did Discord turn evil again when all of this happened?” “Who’s Discord?” Mario asked the baby Dragon. “I’ll explain later,” Spike replied. “But what’s your guy’s problem with us?” “If you must know, gentlecolts,” the Pegasirate on the left continued, “we could not help but overhear you talking about the Elements of Harmony, and plan on obtaining them. Our quarrel with you is that we also wish to obtain the Elements of Harmony. It’s nothing personal, really. We just can’t allow you to have the Elements. So, therefore, we’re going to have to remove you both from the equation. Shall we get started, Swash?” “Aye-aye, Buckle!” the one on the right agreed. With that, the battle started with Spike using his Tattle. “Okay, so we have Pegasirates,” the baby Dragon explained. “As their name implies, they’re Pegasus ponies who have turned to a life of piracy. Apparently, these guys give Equestrian sky patrols a hard time. While in the air, your Hammer attacks won’t be able to reach them, and they can dive-bomb and slash us with their wings. However, a good stomp brings them to the ground for a while. They’re still not easy to fight, though as they can run up and buck us in the head and they still slash us with their wings. Though timing for guarding is easier when they’re on the ground.” Mario nodded at that, and delivered a Power Stomp on Swash’s back, knocking him out of the air. This however, allowed Buckle to dive-bomb him, knocking Mario for a loop. Spike, however, performed his Jackhammer Tail on Buckle to bring him to ground level the first moment he got. Meanwhile, Mario remembered he had a Sleepy Sheep on his person. “Spike,” he told the baby Dragon while holding the Sleepy Sheep above his head, “whatever you do, don’t panic about this.” Soon enough, a herd of sheep ran through the area out of nowhere, passing by both of the Pegasirates, leaving them unharmed but fast asleep. “Okay,” Spike voiced, “how does a flock of sheep get summoned by that, and why do they make our enemies fall asleep?” “I just go with it,” Mario shrugged. “For now, let’s take advantage of their nap.” With that, Mario bounced on Swash while Spike took on Buckle until the two woke up moments later. When they woke up, both heroes received a countering buck that knocked them back for their trouble. The two Pegasirates returned to the air. “Was that some type of Mushroom Kingdom item?” Swash growled while shaking off his drowsiness. “How do you even know how to use those?” “I’m from the Mushroom Kingdom,” Mario justified before delivering a final Power Stomp to Swash’s head, taking him out of the fight. “Swash, my friend!” Buckle yelled in shock before checking on his fallen comrade. “Stay down… I’ll deal with these two!” Spike, meanwhile, jumped on Buckle with another Jackhammer Tail, bringing him down. Buckle however countered by rushing up to him and slashing him with his wings, leaving the Dragon exhausted. Mario quickly helped Spike up, and gave him a Mushroom. “Trust me,” the plumber assured the confused Dragon, “that will help.” Spike shook his head before eating it, feeling better. With that, Mario brought his Hammer down on Buckle, wounding him before Spike finished him off with a Jackhammer Tail. Both Swash and Buckle stood up despite their injuries. “Perhaps… we underestimated them, Swash,” Buckle voiced. “That we did, Buckle,” Swash agreed. “Captain won’t be happy about this….” “So are you guys part of the Colts of Nocturne, or something?” Spike accused. “That’s why you attacked us, right? To get us out of the way to claim the Elements for yourselves?” “The Colts of Who, now?” Swash questioned. “I’ve never heard of them, young Dragon.” “Neither have I,” Buckle agreed. “We fly under a different flag.” Looking at their injuries, he asked, “Shall we retreat?” “We may as well,” Swash answered. “Mark my words, you two… we shall return!” With that, the two Pegasirates flew off before Mario and Spike could grab them, dropping a Badge as they flew off. Mario blinked in surprise at the Badge- Power Bounce. “Where in the world did they get a Badge like this?” Mario voiced, picking it up. However, it wasn’t like he could ask the two… they were already too far gone. “You think we’ll run into them, again?” Spike asked. “Possibly,” Mario answered while equipping the Power Bounce. “I hope not, but when enemies vow that we’ll meet again, we usually do… I just don’t know what their goals are. But if guys like THEM are going after the Elements, then we have a serious problem, here.” “Spike!” Little Strongheart’s voice interrupted the two, causing them to turn towards the Buffalo calf approaching. Strongheart explained, “My father’s meditation was awfully short. He says he’s made his decision. Follow me.” With no further delays, the trio followed Little Strongheart over to Thunderhooves. “…Mario, Spike,” the large bison greeted. Mario noticed the change in tone from before in the chief. Rather than hostile, Thunderhooves seemed pleasant, calm. Hopefully what Spike told him got to the Chief and he was willing to cooperate. “I am afraid that due to secrecy reasons as well as our traditions, I cannot disclose to you where our Burial Grounds exactly are.” Mario and Spike’s hopes died as quickly as they came. “But Chief,” Spike insisted, “if we get the Elements of Harmony back, soon, who knows what the Skull Boys are going to do with it! Or worse, if the Colts of Nocturne get their hooves on it! The fate of Equestria rests with us getting into the Buffalo Burial Grounds!” “I know that,” Thunderhooves answered. “…However, the ancient ways never really had a good defense against… ‘accidental discoveries’ of our burial grounds. It is not like any of my tribesmen told this band of robbers harassing the settlers where we buried our dead, is it?” Mario and Spike both looked at each other, realizing that would make sense. “Now, I still cannot reveal the exact location in the San Palomino Desert where they are… but I know of one thing that can.” With that, the chief gave Mario what appeared to be an orange rock in the shape of an eagle feather. “What is this?” Mario asked, looking at the feather. “That is my family’s sacred treasure said to guide us back towards our roots, the Eagle Relic passed through generations after generations,” Thunderhooves explained. “It is but one of the two keys that will allow you entrance to our Burial Grounds. I was going to give it to my daughter when she came of age… but right now, you need that stone far more than my tradition. Somewhere in the desert, there is a place where the Eagle Relic will fit, allowing the sands that cover the Buffalo Burial Grounds to be blown away. Technically, any eagle feather would have done the trick, but this was a lot easier than pursuing an eagle and taking one of its feathers. However, you will need a second key that must be recovered with the help of a sacred throwing wing to truly enter.” “…That’s rather cryptic,” Mario pointed out. “It is the most I can tell you,” Thunderhooves replied. “Now, go travelers… and remove these bandits so my tribe’s departed may rest in peace!” “We will,” Spike promised. “Thank you, Chief Thunderhooves, for understanding.” “Not a problem, young Dragon,” Thunderhooves bowed. “Go in peace.” With that, Mario and Spike walked out of the camp, Eagle Relic in hands. Mario did not know why, but he felt slightly better about this adventure, and his ability to continue it. --- Unknown Location "...So, you two lost to them, huh?" a feminine voice spoke up. "A shame, boys." "Aye, Captain," Swash confessed, head bowed. "Forgive us, Captain..." "It won't happen, again, Captain," Buckle assured her. "We'll get those landlubbers the next time." "I hope by 'we', you mean 'all of us'," their captain voiced. "I'm coming with you next time you face these two. We'll have the advantage in numbers, gents." Swash and Buckle looked at each other, concerned, before turning to face her. "N-N-Now, Captain, you don't have to do that," Buckle told her. "We're the ones who ought to do the grunt work." "You're my crew, boys," the captain replied. "Just like how you take care of me, I'm to take care of you. Please... I want to see these two who fought you myself. So, next time you plan on crossing paths with those two, I'm going to be fighting alongside you both." "Uh... wow, Captain," Swash commented, a blush on his face. "I thought you'd be mad that we lost that Badge and the battle." "Me, too," Buckle blushed. "Our last captain wasn't so lenient." "The Badge was trivial and it's not like any of us could use it. And we now know there's somepony else besides us and this duo pursuing the Elements of Harmony... I say we use this as a learning experience. As for me being lenient... well boys, we're going to be training for a while. If we're to stand a chance of winning the race to gather the Elements of Harmony throughout Equestria, we must be prepared! So, let's get started, now!" Both Pegasirates stood at attention. "Aye-aye, ma'am!" --- Appleloosa After a long hike back through the desert, Mario and Spike returned to the town to recover from all of the running back and forth. “So, this and a throwing wing open the Buffalo Burial Grounds,” Mario voiced, looking at the Eagle Relic in his hands. “We’ll have to look in the desert,” Spike commented. “Shall we head out?” “Once we’re restocked up,” Mario answered. “I’d rather not go after the Skull Boys without proper supplies.” As they were walking, though, a set of screams erupted from the middle of town. Curious, the duo rushed over, only to bump into four Bandits, coins falling all over the ground. “Ugh…” one of the Bandits groaned. “Of all the rotten luck…” Looking up at the two, he scowled, “What is your problem, buddies!? Can’t you see we’re in the middle of somethin’?” “Stop, thieves!” a female Koopa yelled. “They stole our coins!” “Ugh, great,” the Bandit groaned. The Bandits sprung up before Mario could react, grabbed the dropped coins, and prepared to flee. Spike and Mario each stomped on a thief to knock the coins out of their hands, but it gave the other two enough time to run away— WHACK! WHACK! Only for an orange boomerang to fly from nowhere and whack both retreating Bandits in the head, then curve around and hit them again, knocking the stolen coins loose. Mario and Spike watched the boomerang fly, ultimately landing in the open hand of a familiar-looking Boomerang Bro, who used it to tip his hat upwards. Each of the four Bandits looked at each other, and back at the Boomerang Bro. “No… no way!” the lead Bandit breathed. “Wild Spin Boomregard! I heard your game was over from Black Mask Guylan himself! He said the Appleloosans would’ve hung you! Why are ya still alive!? And more importantly, why are you stoppin’ us!?” “Look here, partner,” Boomregard scowled. “Fer starters, Ah don’t know ya. Ah don’t know who AH am… Ah don’t even know if Ah’m this here Boomregard that everyone keeps talkin’ ’bout.” The Bandits looked at each other, nervous. “Second, it just ain’t right to let ya steal from these nice folk, even if they don’t trust me fer bein’ this outlaw. That’s what got me locked up, an’ crime doesn’t pay, boys. Third, an’ finally… whether or not Ah’m Boomregard, Ah reckon Ah have business with this here Black Mask Guylan. So Ah want ya’ll to run back to him, an’ tell him Ah’m comin’ fer him.” The Bandits were intimidated by Boomregard’s threats, if their shaking wasn’t evidence enough. When they didn’t flee right away, Boomregard threw his Boomerang once again, smacking all four of them twice. “AH SAID TO GIT!” “Yes, sir!” the Bandits all nodded, running the opposite direction, much to Mario’s surprise. “…That was amazing,” the baby Dragon spoke for all present. Soon enough, three female Toads and the Koopa Troopa all walked over, reclaiming their money. Mario looked at the three Toads… and placed his palm to his face. “You’ve got to be kidding me,” Mario spoke, recognizing the red, green, and pink Toads. “The Traveling Sisters Three? What are you guys doing in Equestria?” “Having adventures as usual,” the red Toad answered, picking up her dropped coins. “Anyways, I can’t believe you’re here, Great Gonzales!” “Gonzales is here!?” the pink Toad asked. “Marry me!” “No, me!” the green Toad insisted. “Gonzales?” Spike asked. “Remind me to tell the wrestling story Goombella mentioned in FULL, sometime,” Mario answered, turning away from the three squealing Toads. Instead, he looked at Boomregard, who was helping the Koopa Troopa pick up her money. “Ya missed a coin, Dr. Karoline,” he told her, handing it to her. The Koopa Troopa blushed as she took it from him. “Thank you, Mr. Boomregard,” she breathed, smiling at him. “If you hadn’t been there with those two other travelers, I wouldn’t be able to pay fer a few Mushrooms. Thank ya kindly.” “Ain’t nothin’ to worry about,” Boomregard replied. “It’s the least Ah can do fer ya after ya saved mah game from mah injuries.” Soon enough, Braeburn, Kooper, and Silverstar approached Mario and Spike. “Ah was wonderin’ what happened to ya,” Silverstar smirked at the duo. “Yer back in one piece. No tears or crumplin’, either.” “So, how did it all go?” Braeburn asked. “Chief Thunderhooves gave us a lead as to where the Buffalo Burial Grounds, are,” Spike explained. “We’re going to head out after it, shortly.” “Good to hear, Spike!” Braeburn cheered. “Ah’d love to come with ya to teach those there Bandits a thing or two, but the harvest is so soon….” “Hold on, there, partner,” Boomregard interjected. “Did mah ears deceive me, or did ya’ll say yer goin’ after Guylan’s gang, too?” Mario blinked. “Uh, Sheriff Silverstar,” the plumber voiced, “I’ve been meaning to ask: why is Boomregard out of jail?” “Ya can blame yer Koopa Troopa friend an’ Doctor Karoline o’er there,” Silverstar confessed. “Ya see, Mario,” Kooper justified, “the way I saw things, you need all of the help you can get. Boomregard here has amnesia, was found at the sight of the Element of Harmony’s falling, and no doubt has a bone to pick with the Skull Boys.” “Koopa Troopa has a point,” Boomregard agreed. “If Ah AM Boomregard, then these Bandits betrayed me an’ left me fer dead. If Ah AIN’T, though, then Ah’m bein’ mistaken fer an outlaw ’cause o’ Guylan’s gang. Either way, someone owes me an explanation ’bout why Ah ended up in a crater in the middle o’ the desert. An’ we, boys, have a mutual target.” “Ah still have mah doubts ’bout lettin’ this amnesiac Boomerang Bro out o’ the jail,” Silverstar voiced, “but it WOULD make sense to have him ’round should his memory come back at any time. He probably knows the place like the back o’ his hand. Not to mention he still knows his way around a boomerang.” “So we’re in agreement, then,” Boomregard declared, shaking the hands of both of his new partners. “Mario an’ Spike, right? This alliance may be temporary, but we’re gonna make Guylan an’ his gang pay fer what he did to me an’ these folks!” Mario, with no real debate, just shrugged, welcoming him to the team. Boomregard- at least, we think it is- joined the party! Boomregard (as far as we know) is a former outlaw of a Boomerang Bro who has changed his ways after a nasty bout of amnesia caused by his former gang members. As a result of this, Boomregard has joined Mario in their quest to stop the criminals of the land. While Boomregard is the primary partner, his standard field ability is to throw his Boomerang out with a tap of Y, or hold Y for powered up longer toss, in a straight line. With this, Boomregard can strike distant switches, slice ropes, and retrieve objects out of Mario’s reach. This can also be used to strike enemies from a safe distance for a first strike in battles. But Boomregard’s real use comes from his Touch Ability. Tracing a path on the Touch Screen, Boomregard can fine aim his Boomerang to strike targets above or below you. Boomregard is also rather skilled in battle. His Boomerang Toss can strike a target up to two times, no matter where they are. However, his Wild Arc can hit all foes in a straight line twice. (Remember, position is important for Boomregard’s attacks). Boomregard looked at Silverstar. “Thank ya kindly fer lettin’ me have this chance, sheriff.” “Ah’ll return yer thanks when those Skull Boys are taken care o’,” Silverstar insisted. “So,” Kooper asked Spike, “are you going to jump in Mario’s pocket for later, or—” “Uh what?” Spike asked. “No. I’m heading out with them. What is this, a role-playing game where you can switch the party at any time with a press of right on some type of D-Pad?” Mario, Kooper, Boomregard, Braeburn, and Silverstar all looked at the baby Dragon, confused. “…Okay, Ah have amnesia,” Boomregard remarked, “an’ even Ah think Ah ne’er heard o’ that.” “I’ve been hearing of a lot of weird things, lately,” Mario commented. “Spike is just as confused as the rest of us. So, anyways, we probably should get going.” “That we can agree on,” Spike and Boomregard nodded. Boomregard nodded at the Koopa doctor, who only blushed as she watched him walk away with the plumber and the Dragon. “Please be safe, Boomregard,” she prayed as the three walked off to face the dangers of the Skull Boys gang.