Chapter 159: Recruiting Three Kingdoms
As Qiang Claws gathered Ai’s dust in an urn and the group began to unwind from their adventure, Princess Peach turned to Apple Death. “If memory serves, you originally came here to talk to Mario and I about something?”
Magolor stepped in, so to speak, “Actually, it’s related to the reason I’m here, so I suppose I should be the one to address it with you.”
With a bow, the floating mage presented himself to the paper Mushroom Princess, “My name is Magolor. I am one of the head scientists and lead Magiscience researcher of an Omniversal Alliance currently in quite early stages of coming to be. I originally sent Apple Death here to speak with you in hopes of recruiting this world to our Alliance for mutual protection, diplomacy and cooperation. However, she was gone for a while longer than I had expected, so I came to check on her progress, then saw the fight, and, well, you saw what happened there… Anyway, if you have the time, we can discuss the further specifics in a more suitable room,” he said, turning to Qiang Claws, who had placed the urn next to the one holding the dust of Bao Leo.
Qiang Claws nodded. “Very well. Let’s go to the Meeting Room. I’m curious to learn more about this Omniversal Alliance. What is its name?”
Magolor rubbed the back of his head, slightly nervously. “It doesn’t quite have one yet, we’re still trying to get everything sorted while on a deadline, of sorts.”
Qiang Claws raised an eyebrow. “Alright. Follow me.”
As Qiang led the group to the Meeting Room, Apple Death took one last look at Ai’s urn before leaving, wishing only that things had been different.
Along the way, Peach and Qiang asked a few questions about the Alliance, Qiang worrying about being able to rebuild their civilization, to which Magolor (despite his mental screeching in frustration at having ANOTHER civilization to help rebuild) assured that there would be more than enough resources to allow the Felinois to rebuild on their own, and aid can be provided where and when available.
Peach, on the other hand, was more curious about the reason they were making this alliance and what this deadline was that was working them so harshly, which Magolor answered simply, if shortly, stating, “That will be addressed in due time.”
In Subspace, a being, seemingly of pure energy, yet humanoid in form was observing the universes through portals connected to the Subspace Bubbles his Army had placed, seeing this Alliance attempting to study his power.
Though some of his Army had played their hand earlier than desired, it mattered not to him.
It all fed him power, bringing him ever closer to being able to stand against Galeem and Dharkon.
And yet…
His mind wandered once more to the child.
How had she learned of his army as well as the Gods?
And how had she grown so powerful?
The being had his suspicions, but ultimately decided that it didn’t matter how or why the child had gained her strength or her knowledge, only to have his attention drawn to a new portal, one much smaller than the others.
But its existence ensured proximity to a place of primordial importance.
Observing the smaller portal from curiosity, he saw an island, burnt but still very much intact.
His eye was drawn to a curious sight… one that was faintly familiar to him.
A girl, horse-like, yet of bipedal build, floating in the air, with a swarm of cubes floating around her, commanding them like one would a limb.
He remembered her.
Phantom.
She was friends with the child. And now she clearly stood against him.
His mind wandered once more to the child, and the Alliance.
Would they join his Army? Or would they stand against him?
And if war came between them, would the victor be ready for Galeem and Dharkon?
The being’s speculations came to an abrupt halt as his suspicion surrounding Sweetie Void arose anew in his mind.
Was this destiny always meant for her?
Or is there another player to this game?
One content to throw the match and watch the inferno?
Or one who only interferes as they feel necessary?
“What are you? And what is your game?”
Upon reaching the Meeting Room, Magolor only waited for everyone to find a seat before he began to explain.
“About two weeks ago, the one responsible for starting the Omniversal Alliance, a rather remarkable child named Sweetie Belle, received word of some threats to a good portion of the Multiverse. Two gods, one of Light and one of Darkness, are actively working to free themselves from their now weakening prisons. But before even then, we must face an army that is willing to risk the lives and existence of portions of the multiverse simply so their commander can defeat these two gods, known as the Subspace army. Roughly a week ago, we learnt the identity of at least one of their leaders, supposedly the Supreme Commander, as well as the plan I just mentioned.”
Qiang Claw's eyes narrowed. “They would put innocent lives at risk without even attempting a different method that does not risk lives?”
Princess Peach gave a slightly startled cry, having thought of something, “OH! You mentioned a deadline of sorts. Is this army the reason for it?”
Magolor nodded. “Yes, though the reason for it is… unpleasant for many of us in the Alliance. The Supreme Commander of the Subspace Army, a relatively low power God of Creation known as Master Hand, whom we also learned the intent of the Subspace Army from, has given us one month, roughly, to decide if we are going to join them. We intend to use that time to recruit as much as we can quietly, then have an expo of sorts to show off our capabilities, and begin more general recruitment efforts. While we are currently having to help rebuild a few civilizations already in the Alliance, for various reasons, we have begun recruiting more readily known and accessible universes at the moment before beginning broad recruitment after a bit of show of what we’ve already attained, before giving them our answer.”
“And I’m guessing that this Alliance’s answer will be “no”, right?” Qiang Claws wondered.
“That’s right. However, some of us have doubts. The Subspace Army is very powerful, very advanced, and some think that it would be better to join them and not risk being destroyed by them in the war that is sure to follow. This is why we will make a military expo in about a week, to show to everyone that we can rival the Subspace Army and convince everyone that they don’t have to join them for their protection.”
“And the more you manage to recruit, the better, am I right?” Qiang asked.
“Exactly. But we aren’t just recruiting for the war against the Subspace Army. We genuinely want to help. We will help you rebuild Felina, we will give you technology and everything, and so, we will work together to make our civilizations better.” Magolor turned to Mario and Peach. “We already recruited the other Mushroom Kingdom, and we are in the process of recruiting the rest of their world. It’s the other Princess Peach who advised us to talk to you to see if you would agree to join us too.”
Peach smiled. “We would be happy to join, even if it means entering a war. We want to help stop this Subspace Army anyway. Even if they want to stop these Gods, their plan is wrong.”
Qiang sighed. “The last thing we want is a war, but we need the help to rebuild… Very well, we will join.”
“If ya don’t want to participate in the war, it’ll be alright, Ah think. Master Hand doesn’t know about ya, so Ah don’t think ya’ll be attacked. At least, at first. Master Hand may discover you after,” Apple Death said.
“And we will do our best to protect you if the Subspace Army does end up attacking you,” Magolor reassured.
Qiang Claws nodded, opening his mouth to speak, only for Peach to cut him off. “Oh, dear. We should probably inform Bowser, he rules the Koopa Kingdom, he should know about this!”
Apple Death slammed her head on the table in front of her with a groan.
"Do we REALLY have to?" she asked Peach.
"She has a point. We could use any help possible and plus, it’s one less potential ally for the Subspace Army. It would be best to recruit him while we are here," Magolor said.
"Ugh,alright alright…" Apple Death admitted.
"Hey, don't worry! You can go ahead and return home, I can handle him myself. If I understood the other Bowser correctly, I think I can manage this paper version," Magolor reassured her.
Thus, with Peach and Mario's directions, after flying back to the Mushroom Kingdom, Magolor easily found Paper Bowser's castle and approached the gates, where he was immediately stopped by the guards.
"Halt! What is your business here, stranger?" a Koopa with a lance asked him, pointing the lance in his direction.
Magolor calmly put his hands up. "At ease, my friend. I am just looking for an audience with your King, as I got quite the proposition for him. Don't worry, as you can see I am unarmed," Magolor told the Koopa, conveniently skipping the fact he doesn't even fight with weapons.
The Koopa that asked Magolor looked at him with suspicion, then looked back at his fellow guards who just shrugged at him.
"... Alright, you will be escorted to the Throne Room, but I must warn: the King isn’t exactly of the patient kind, so keep it direct and short."
Magolor nodded, and let himself be guided through the castle up to the Throne Room where his arrival was announced before he entered.
There, he saw Bowser sitting on his throne looking somewhat bored.
Mmm…. Maybe I should kidnap Peach… the Koopa King was thinking before looking down with disinterest at Magolor.
Then he did a double take, and his eyes widened.
"You! What are ya doing here now? We beat that cat lady and demon, so there’s nothing more you should be bothering me with!" Bowser said annoyed.
Magolor, though, kept his cool, and spoke in a joyful manner. "Greetings, King Bowser! I come here to talk about a proposition of mine, one that can greatly benefit your kingdom should you accept it."
Bowser just raised an eyebrow. "A proposition to benefit my kingdom you say?... Eh, guess I can hear about it. Was awfully bored just now so I got nothing better to do."
Magolor smiled to himself. "Excellent! How about we move out to a more proper space to discuss negotiations? Or we discuss them here, whatever makes you comfortable."
Bowser just looked at him, a bit puzzled, while Magolor just kept patiently looking at him.
This guy…is being awfully formal. But… aww what da heck, if it’s gonna benefit me in any way, might as well go along with it, Bowser thought as he looked at him.
"Sure, I got an office where I manage all the SUPER BORING kingdom stuff, although most of da time I just have Kamek manage it for me," Bowser said.
He stepped out of the throne and made a sign with his hand for Magolor to follow him, and he did.
He led him through the castle until they arrived at a double door that Bowser pushed open, startling a tired-looking Kamek who was lying on a wide, large desk, sitting on a chair that looked too big for him and surrounded by stacks of paper.
"A-ah, his Evilness! What a surprise seeing you around here," the Magikoopa said as he adjusted his glasses.
"Yeah yeah, this one right here," Bowser said, pointing at Magolor. "Wants to negotiate something, so I am seeing where this goes. Now move out of my chair! And be around in case I have to ask you about boring stuff," he said, making his way to the desk while Kamek got off the chair.
Magolor, for his part, just moved to one of the two Smaller chairs in front of the desk while Kamek stood beside Bowser.
Bowser crossed his arms and looked at Magolor straight to the eyes. "Alright, spit it out now."
Magolor, without missing a beat, explained to them all about the Subspace Army, the Gods of Light and Darkness, and the Alliance all in a condensed and easy to follow version.
"And so, we want to formally invite the Koopa Kingdom of the Paper world in. If you have doubts about our might, in about a week we are holding a Military Expo where we are showcasing all that we have to offer against the Subspace army. And might isn’t the only thing we have to offer: with our technology we can greatly improve your entire kingdom's lifestyle. The most advanced technology you can imagine at your people's command for their benefit!" Magolor told Bowser and Kamek.
Kamek, throughout his explanation, looked amazed and seemed mostly convinced, but Bowser, on the other hand, had an uncharacteristic, thoughtful expression
"Mmm… Now, all that sounds nice and dandy, and I am especially interested In that militar tech of yours… But there’s one problem."
"And what would it be?" Magolor asked, even when he secretly knew and already predicted the one complaint Bowser could possibly have.
"Y'all sound like a bunch of goody two-shoes, and that ain’t my style. Plus you invited Peach too, right? How am I gonna kidnap her if we are allies?" he asked Magolor.
"Simple, you’re not going to do that," he casually replied
"Hah! Yeah, right. Deal is off," Bowser responded.
"I think you would want to rethink that, Your Majesty. I'm gonna be direct with you right now," Magolor said as he put his hands on the desk and folded them.
"These Gods of Darkness and Light are nothing like either you or I had faced before, and if we don’t put a stop to them, everything we know and more will vanish, but if we don’t stop the Subspace first then we will not even try. What’s more, being a 'villain' yourself you’re aware that nothing good EVER comes out of allying yourself with other villains. Am I wrong?" He looked directly at Bowser in the eyes.
Bowser then vividly remembered a certain someone, and growled out. "Ugh… You… could have some reason in what you speak," he stubbornly let out.
Magolor kept talking. "Realistically, we are your safest bet and you know it. You already know the best part of working with 'goody two-shoes': we are moralists, and as such, we aren’t gonna backstab you, plot or otherwise prejudicate you or your people so long as you do the same. Trust us, and we trust you. All we ask in return is that you keep things civil with Princess Peach, see?" Magolor said, looking at Bowser, his Hands still folded on his desk.
Bowser himself looked troubled, as if seriously debating something in his mind.
Kamek, for the first time, spoke out. "King Bowser, If I may, but you should do it. I know how hard it looks to you, but if it’s for everyone’s sake maybe… maybe you should give up on the Princess."
At that, there's a glint in Magolor's eye and a wide grin stretched behind his garments.
And now…the final push, he thought to himself before speaking.
"And who said anything about giving up on her?" he said, surprising them both.
"What do you mean?" Bowser asked, confused.
"The way I see it, there's two paths forward: either you learn to court her without kidnapping her…. or just join the Alliance temporarily."
Both Kamek and Bowser looked at him stunned.
"That's…an option?" Kamek asked.
"But of course! As soon as the Gods of Light and Darkness are done for, you can formally present your leaving. We will have to confiscate any military tech of the Alliance, but as a showing of gratitude, your people can keep all the domestic ones. It’s a win-win for both of us, whenever you choose when everything ends."
Magolor then unfolded his hands and stretched one towards Bowser.
"So what do you say, King of the Koopas? Think you can go a season without kidnappings?" Magolor asked.
Bowser quickly looked at Kamek, and the Magikoopa just nodded at him with a serious expression.
He looked back at Magolor's hand, and even though he still looked unsure, at the end he sighed heavily and shook it.
"Alright, you win. No kidnappings… for now. You BETTER make this worth it, eggy," he said.
"Of course, you will not regret it!" Magolor said cheerfully…. Outloud.
Keep it cool, keep it cool. You're done now… he thought to himself, keeping himself from throttling Bowser as was his first instinct.
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Epic chapter. So, are you going to show a new world next or are you revisiting an old world next?
11790349
Old universe, new planet.
11790349
Still need to see how Sweetie Belle's presence changes the events of Super Metroid. The baby better live, Lucar!
11790764
And why are you saying that to me? I'm not Lucar.
11790775
Just pointing out that we can't go to a new world with that thing that we already know is happening concurrently not yet being shown.
11790791
Then why did you mention Lucars name?
11791003
It was an aside you reminded me of, and I don't need to directly reply to anything people post on their own stories because they're notified by that fact anyway.
11790764
You love that baby, don't you? Well, my story has shown that I'm not against killing children, so will I follow canon? We will see soon enough.
Wrong Pinkiemoji, Lucar.
Well, one Bowser was convinced, let's see if they have luck with the other Bowser... I wonder how many "villains" will be convinced to join them.
11792716
The other Bowser won't be as easy, with Crazy Hand having recruited him first.
11790764
Between myself coming into the Authorial fold, which I discovered the general feel of my writing tends to fit both the Gore and Comedy tags at the same time.... somehow, and Sweetie Void being, like, 13 at the oldest, I'd say we're gonna have a bit of a time.
Don't be surprised if nonsense reigns in parts of chapters I have a heavy hand in.