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He lived. He served. He died.

This article is dedicated to the late SFD Jigsaw Piece.
Fly high, sweet angel...

Heart Points
Type of object A heart representing the health of a character in combat
Where to get Finding a Heart Block and using it
Killing innocent enemies
Using a Mushroom
Using a Dried Shroom
Using a Life Shroom
Using a Super Shroom
Using an Ultra Shroom
Eating a Apple
Eating an Apple Pie
Eating a Big Cookie
Eating a Bland Meal
Eating a Boiled Egg
Eating a Cake
Eating a Coco Pop
Eating a Deluxe Feast
Eating a Dried Fruit
Eating Dried Pasta
Eating an Egg
Eating a Electro Pop
Eating a Fire Pop
Eating a Fried Egg
Eating a Fried Shroom
Eating Frozen Fries
Eating Healthy Juice
Eating a Honey Shroom
Eating a Honey Ultra
Eating a Honey Ultra
Eating a Iced Potato
Eating a Jelly Shroom
Eating a Jelly Super
Eating a Jelly Ultra
Eating a Kooky Cookie
Eating a Lemon
Eating a Lemon Candy
Eating a Lime
Eating a Lime Candy
Eating a Maple Shroom
Eating a Maple Super
Eating a Maple Ultra
Eating a CNH Industrial Raises Full-year Revenue Forecast After Strong Q3|Melon
Eating a Mistake
Eating a Potato Salad
Eating a Red Berry
Eating a Shroom Cake
Eating a Shroom Steak
Eating Spaghetti
Eating a Special Shake
Eating a Spicy Soup
Eating a Stinky Herb
Eating a Strange Leaf
Eating a Sweet Shroom
Eating a Whacka Bump
Eating a Yelloe Berry
Eating a Yoshi Cookie
Eating a Yummy Meal
First appearance Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars (1996)
Paper Mario (2000, Paper Mario debut)
Latest appearance Paper Mario: The Origiami King (2020)
Created by Nintendo, Intelligent Systems, Square Enix, Namco, SEGA, Gerald Ford, your mom, John Frank Smith, the first human to die, doctors, hearts, programmers


Heart Points, commonly abbreviated as HP and commonly nicknamed Hit Points and Health Points by fans of the Paper Mario franchise, are a unit of measurement that coorespond to the health of characters that appear in the Paper Mario series. If a character's HP falls to zero, they will die and be eliminated from a battle. If Mario's HP reaches 0, he will spin, fall to the ground, and die. The game will then show a game over screen, and kick the player back to the title screen, losing any unsaved data that had occured prior to the the last time the player has saved the game.

Heart Points, despite being a fundamental health system that are otherwise common to RPG, or role-playing games, have become controversial within the Paper Mario fandom. Some believe that HP is an essential upgrade that will be invaluable to help Mario on his journey to ground Peach's Castle, while others find HP to be a pointless thing to upgrade, demonstrating that Flower Points (FP) and Badge Points (BP) are far more important to upgrade, as it will make the gameplay experience of Paper Mario easier, allowing for a variety of strategies that will allow the player to beat Paper Mario in fun and exciting ways. A number of hardcore Paper Mario players choose to completely ignore upgrades to Heart Points when the option is given whenever Mario levels up after gaining 100 Star Points, which are gathered from enemy and boss battles. More casual players or those who simply want to have fun upgrade their Heart Points with no qualms whatsoever, leaving the hardcore Paper Mario fans seething at proclaimed noobs, attempting to explain the Badge System in a well intentioned, but ultimately condescending walls of text that one glance would otherwise turn off any sort of potential readers.

Regardless, Heart Points have been a staple of the Mario RPGs, and Heart Points have appeared in every subsequent Mario RPG and Paper Mario game, even after the release of Paper Mario: Sticker Star, which infamously removed a variety of RPG elements from the game during development, and remain to this very day.

History

The first video game to include a health system is up for debate, but the first Mario game to include a health system was Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, developed by Square Enix. In it, it is simply a health meter that is upgraded whenever a character levels up.

Paper Mario

Heart Points made their series debut in Paper Mario for the Nintendo 64, released on August 11th, 2000.

In this game, Mario will start with 10 HP at the beginning of the game. If Mario earns 100 Star Points, he will level up and have the option to upgrade a point, between the options of Heart Points, Flower Points, and Badge Points. Upgrades of HP will be increased by 5, and will max out at 50 HP. HP levels can additionally be modified by Chet Rippo or badges that change the number of HP Mario has.

Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door

In Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door for the Nintendo GameCube, Heart Points make a return. The functionality of HP is roughly the same as it was in Paper Mario.

Super Paper Mario

In Super Paper Mario for the Nintendo Wii, Heart Points also make a return. HP in this game is now upgraded by leveling up via reaching a certain amount of points, and the upgrades are chosen automatically.

Paper Mario: Sticker Star

In Paper Mario: Sticker Star for the Nintendo 3DS, Heart Points make another appearance. Heart upgrades are recieved at random points, and can be found in certain areas. In other words, fuck Kersti and her god-awful game. I will never get the time that I spent playing Sticker Star back ever again. Worst mistake of my life.

Did you know that these Heart upgrades also determine your attack stat? I just wanted you to know that. The game didn't.

Paper Mario: Color Splash

In Paper Mario: Color Splash for the Wii U, Heart Points make another appearance. Heart upgrades are received automatically after collecting a Big Paint Star instead of searching within the levels. Also Huey exists.

Paper Mario: The Origami King

In Paper Mario: Sticker Star for the Nintendo Switch, Heart Points make another appearance. Heart upgrades are recieved at random points. This game also features evil office supplies and PARTNERS!!!!!!! Again.

Locations of Heart points (a.k.a HP-Up Hearts, a.k.a MAX Up Hearts)

In Paper Mario: Sticker Star and Paper Mario: The Origami King, there are specific locations where HP-Up Hearts are either hidden, or rewarded by doing a specific task.

Paper Mario: Sticker Star

There are a total of 16 HP-Up Hearts that give you 5+ HP, and getting all of them will give you a total of 100 HP.

World 1

In 1-2 Bouquet Gardens, you will encounter a Toad crying about their flowers being blown away. To get the HP-Up Heart, enter Paperize Mode and place three flowers (can be both Ice and Fire). The Toad will be overjoyed and reward you with a HP-Up Heart.

In 1-4 Hither Thither Hill after getting the piece of a Warp Pipe and placing it, go inside of the pipe and you will encounter a Big Buzzy Beetle. After defeating it, you will receive a HP-Up Heart.

World 2

In 2-1 Drybake Desert, there is a pyramid at the end of the level. You will have to make your way to the HP-Up Heart, which is on a platform next to it.

In 2-2 Yoshi Sphinx after scaling to the top of the Yoshi Sphinx, fall down the head facing north and you will fall on a platform with a HP-Up Heart

In 2-3 Sandshifter Ruins, make your way through the maze and check the coffins. A HP-Up Heart will be in one of the coffins.

Surfshine Harbor

In Surfshine Harbor, Paperize the wrongly positioned door and enter. Once inside, go to the back of the building then enter the door on the far right. Once inside again, make your way to the second floor where the HP-Up Heart is.

World 3

After completing 3-12 Whitecap Beach and clearing the forest of poison, replay 3-1 Leaflitter Path and you'll find a HP-Up Heart at the end of the level.

In 3-3 Wiggler's Tree House on the second floor, there's a door outline. Paperize and place a Secret Door Sticker and enter. There will be a HP-Up Heart inside.

In 3-8 Tree Branch Trail at the right side of the big tree, jump and go left and there will be another HP-Up Heart.

After completing 3-12 Whitecap Beach and clearing the forest of poison, replay 3-9 Gauntlet Pond and you'll notice an arrow pointing left. It is pointing to a cave, enter it and you'll find a HP-Up Heart.

In 3-10 Stump Glade after playing Snifit or Whifit once more after completing World 3, a HP-Up Heart will be at the end of the level.

World 4

In 4-2 Ice Flow, as you are running through the frozen area, the HP-Up Heart will be seen on a ledge. Jump on it and head right to get it.

In 4-3 The Enigmansion after completing 4-5 Whiteout Valley, head to the left door, sit on a chair and share a hot cup of tea with the Former Steward Toad. You will be rewarded with a HP-Up Heart.

World 5

In 5-1 Shy Guy Jungle at the area with the large red flower, go behind it to the right you will find another HP-Up Heart

In 5-6 Rumble Volcano after dropping enough Chain Chomps on the moving platform before fighting Petey Piranha, it will take you to a level with a HP-Up Heart to the left.

Decalburg

After rescuing the distressed Toad in every world, In Decalburg enter the last house and read the pictures and the Toad there will burst to tears and give you a HP-Up Heart.

Paper Mario: The Origami King

There are a total of 14 MAX UP Hearts. This variety of Heart Point upgrades vary between 20+ HP, 10+ HP, and 5+ HP. Getting every single one will give you a total of 200 HP.

Red Streamer

In Earth Vellumental Temple, you will obtain a 20+ MAX UP Heart after using a big rolling Koopa Shell as a path over the giant gap.

Blue Streamer

Get to the Tall Grass Plains in Autumn Mountain. Follow a narrow path on the left that'll lead to a hidden hole. Help the Toad inside, and he'll reward you with a 5+ MAX UP Heart.

In Water Vellumental Shrine, head to the right side and go down stairs, whack the Blue Toad and you'll be rewarded a 5+ MAX UP Heart.

You'll receive a 20+ MAX UP after trading with the Chain Chomp in Shogun Studios. There's also a 5+ MAX UP Heart, which can be obtained by solving the House of Riddles.

Yellow Streamer

In Scorching Sandpaper Desert, head southwest and dig in the center of the rocks, you'll get a shriveled 5+ MAX UP Heart. Take the MAX UP Heart to the lake in Whispering Woods to restore it.

In Shroom City, turn off the fountain in the hotel pool. Afterwards, talk to the Snifit on the surfboard Toad. Saving the Toad will reward you a 10+ MAX UP Heart.

After collecting 10 faceless Toads in the Temple of Shrooms, head to the room with several coffins and open the one with a heart-shaped symbol, it contains a 10+ MAX UP Heart.

Purple Streamer

Go to The Princess Peach and open the chest by the smokestack, inside it is a 20+ MAX UP Heart.

In The Great Sea, dive at the center of the star on your map, you will get a canned Heart. To open it, go back to Autumn Mountain and head to the Canned Food Party, you will get a 5+ MAX UP Heart.

On Heart Island, solve the puzzle and at the end, help out the folded Toad and you will be rewarded a 20+ MAX UP Heart.

In Ice Vellumental Mountain, use the icicles the Sumo Bros knocked down from the ceiling to make your way to a hidden chest that contains a 5+ MAX UP.

Green Streamer

At the main plaza in Shangri-Spa, whack the closed blue umbrella to release a Snifit. Speak to them and you'll be able to buy a 10+ MAX UP Heart for 10,000 Coins.

In Shrine of Rainbows, knock down three stalactites to clog the air vents. This will power up the steam and will lift a platform to a chest that contains a 10+ MAX UP Heart.

Badges in Paper Mario 64 with effects based on Heart Points

Close Call – When Mario is at 5 HP or lower, gives all enemy attacks a 33% chance of missing.

Happy Heart – Gives Mario a 50% chance of recovering 1 HP at the end of every turn.

Peekaboo – Makes all enemies’ HP visible without needing to use the Tattle ability.

Heart Finder – Increases the amount of Heart Point drops that appear after a battle is won.

HP Drain – Decreases Mario’s attack power by 1, in exchange for healing 1 HP with every time he hits an enemy (up to 5 HP per turn).

HP Plus – Gives Mario 5 extra max HP whenever equipped.

Power Rush – When Mario is at 5 HP or lower, increases his attack power by 2.

Mega Rush – When Mario is at 1 HP, increases his attack power by 4.

Last Stand – When Mario is at 5 HP or lower, halves the damage he takes.

Badges in Paper Niko 64 with effects related to Heart Points

Power Shake – When Niko is at 5 HP or lower, increases the attack power of all quaking moves by 2.

Mega Shake – When Niko is at 1 HP, increases the attack power of all quaking moves by 8.

Will of Death – When Niko is between 8% and 78% of his max HP, guarantees multi-hit moves will hit the maximum number of times.

Hell’s Floor – When Niko is at 1 HP, inflicts Burn on all enemies, partners, and Niko.

Basement – Enables Niko’s HP to drop as low as -10 HP without him falling in battle.

The Star Wars Parallel

A Paper Mario fan assaulting another Paper Mario fan for saying that they liked Paper Mario: Sticker Star. (2016, colorized)

Some particularly thoughtful and introspective fans of the Paper Mario series have noticed that the receptions between the first six Star Wars and the first six games in the Paper Mario series seem to have an eerily similar concensus.

Paper Mario and Star Wars: A New Hope

Both are the first installments that lay the foundation for what is to come. While some people may look back and see their flaws and weaknesses, others are still captivated by a pure, unwavering incarnation prior to fan and critical reception.

Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door and Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back

Both are sequels to their first installments and are generally regarded as the best of their franchises, going to lengths previously untouched and being polished, with less numerous flaws. They are both consistently called the best of their franchises that saying so has become cliché, but nobody particularly cares because they're that great.

Super Paper Mario and Star Wars: Return of the Jedi

Both are considered the final installments of their original trilogies of origin, and are usually regarded as the weakest works within each group. A number of detractors will be willing to state their grievances with each work that would make them more flawed, but there are also a number of supporters of each work who would go as far to consider it their favorite entry.

Paper Mario: Sticker Star and Star Wars: The Phantom Menace

Both are the first entries in each respective installment after a prolonged period of time, which naturally created hype surronding them and their releases. However, upon release, each would be greatly criticized for it's lack of understanding and/or respect of what had come before as well as other lackluster elements. Both have a sizable group of people who are nostalgic for each installment and are not as harsh, if not mostly positive in retrospect when analyzing said works.

Paper Mario: Color Splash and Star Wars: Attack of the Clones

Both continue and elaborate upon the new worlds they established within the confines of storytelling present in their respective previous installments, which would generally be regarded as an improvement, whether slight or drastic. Both have also become gradually less discussed over time, and some would even arge that they are forgettable in some aspects.

Paper Mario: The Origami King and Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith

Both are the final installments in their respective eras and both are near universally regarded to be the best installments within said eras, despite still having similar points of detraction to their predecessors. However, their successes were considered surprising and some would even go as far as to rank it among each franchise's original trilogies.

Hairy Heart Point

A "hairy heart point" inside the Windy Mill.

In update 4.4 of the Wii U Virtual Console version of Paper Mario, a glitched heart drop could occasionally be found in certain restricted areas of the game. If picked up, it would instantly drop your defense stat to 0. Its hairy appearance is speculated to have been a misinterpretation of a sprite from the scrapped GameBoy Paper Mario game.

As of update 6.0, this glitch has been patched. It was replaced with the yellow heart point, which grants Mario the absorption status effect.

The Great HP Opinion Poll Quest for Interviews

Have you ever wondered the opinions on every enemy that has appeared in Paper Mario for the Nintendo 64? Well, after Mario's quest came to an end, a poll to ask the Mushroom Kingdom and it's neighboring lands was ordered by her majesty Princess Peach. This story recalls this event in great detail.

Click the tabs at the top to start reading!

Prologue

Mario and Luigi

The scene establishes the Mario Bros. House one late morning.
PaperLuigi
Gee, it sure is a nice day in the Mushroom Kingdom. I am so glad that Bowser doesn't have his ugly castle flying in the sky anymore, eh Mario?
PaperMario
*raises his hand*
PaperLuigi
And thanks to you, the Mushroom Kingdom is safe once again as well!
The scene cuts to the outside of the Mario Bros. House. Parakarry is seen delivering a letter to the brothers' mailbox.
Parakarry
Parakarry flies away.
PaperLuigi
Eh, I think Parakarry just came over. Wondering what he brought us today.
Luigi steps out of the home and opens his mailbox, pulling out a letter stamped by Princess Peach.
PaperLuigi
A letter from the princess, hmm.
Luigi comes back insode his house and places the letter on the table.
PaperLuigi
Definetly something that you'd want to read, Mario! Or, I guess I could read it for you.
Luigi opens the letter and unfolds the paper inside.
PaperLuigi
Ahem...

Dear Mario and Luigi,
I would like for the both of you to come to the Mushroom Kingdom Castle today at 3 P.M.. I apologize for such short notice, but I believe that it would be important if the both of you could please make an appearance. I plan to unveil a project, and I fear that there will be resistance of some form, as the last time I have done a gathering, Bowser had taken over the castle.

P.S. There will not be any cake. Mario.

Yours truly, Princess Toadstool

- Peach
PaperLuigi
Yikes! That's only 2 hours from now! I mean, it's not like I was planning to do anything in particular today... What do you think, Mario?
PaperMario
*raises his hand*
PaperLuigi
Oh, you want to go to the castle early? ...Okay. If you say so, Mario.

Toad Town

Mario and Luigi leave their house and go down the Warp Pipe to Toad Town, where they are transported to it.
FelissaT
Oh, look it's Mario.
MissT
And Luigi!
KrisT
...Why are they even here.
PaperLuigi
Oh, hi... You three.
PaperMario
*jumps*
MissT
What? Are you telling us you don't even know our names!?
FelissaT
We're kind of like, a big deal around here. How rude!
KrisT
Yeah. You may need to get your eyes checked if you don't recognize us!
PaperLuigi
...What
Luigi and Mario walk away from the 3 Beautiful Sisters.
KrisT
What's his damage?
Scene cuts to Luigi looking at a bulletin board.
PaperLuigi
Hey, the same letter we just got was also posted here, Mario!
PaperMario
*blinks*
MaleToad
What's up with Peach nowadays? Is she paranoid she'll be kidnapped again or something?
FemaleToad
It's probably another dumb thing. I'm betting my Coins on it.

Peach's Castle

Scene cuts to the oustide of Peach's Castle.
PaperLuigi
Well Mario, we're here. Not sure why exactly you wanted to be here so soon, though.
ToadGuard
Hey! What are you two doing here at this time?
PaperLuigi
Me and Mario were waiting for the Princess' summons at 3 P.M. today.
ToadGuard
Oh. You're early. Why don't you come in? I'd hate to leave you both out burning up in the sunlight.
PaperLuigi
Much obliged!
Mario and Luigi follow the Toad guard inside of Peach's Castle, where they wait in a large foyer.
ToadGuard
Alright, you can get comfy. But not too comfy, or else I'll kick you both out.
PaperMario
*jumps twice*
ToadGuard
Ehhh.
PaperLuigi
Man... What are we gonna do to pass the time, Mario?
FiceT
I'm here too! I'm supposed to be guarding the entrance to Forever Forest, but I was brought here for this event.
PaperLuigi
Oh... Any idea what the Princess has brought us all here for?
FiceT
Nope. No idea.
ToadGuard
That information is confidential.
PaperLuigi
Oh, okay...
Time passes, and the castle is now packed with visitors. The time is now 2:57 P.M.
MinhT
Ooh, this place is so crowded now. I didn't think there were going to be this many people...
Bartender
You got an invitation. I got an invitation. I'm pretty sure everyone here got an invitation.
MaleToad
Oh, so many randos here...
Dryite
Hey! Did you call me weird!?
FrostT
Actually, I was wondering if I was the victim of ridicule today.
MaleToad
Yes, all of you. You guys are all weird.
FelissaT
Hey!
GreenKoopa
Stop bullying us, jerk!
A group of several Toads with extended vests emerge from the balcony's corners.
TrumpetToad
Doot do do dooo!
The Castle guests all fall silent.
TrumpetToad
Ladies and gentlemen, may I present to you... The fair ruler of the Mushroom Kingdom, Princess Peach!

Princess Peach emerges from two large red doors, accompanied by two Toad guards.
{{{2}}}
PaperPeach64
Ahem...
The audince bows for Princess Peach.
PaperPeach64
Oh, no need to be so formal! I mean... Good afternoon, Mushroom Kingdom!
A Toad guard provides Peach a manuscript, which she begins to read aloud.
PaperPeach64
It is with my curiosity that across the Mushroom Kingdom and it's neighbors, there have been highly varying opinions regarding... Heart Points.
The audience murmors in confusion.
FemaleToad
What's a... Heart Point?
PaperPeach64
Oh, I guess I haven't explained. Well, a Heart Point is kind of like a form of vitality. If you engage in any sort of fight or scuffle, you probably notice that you have a limited amount of energy, and you just stop at a certain point. I guess that's the best way of explaining Heart Points.
Nomadimouse
Okay, so what does this have to do with you summoning us, specifically?
PaperPeach64
Well, I need a group of capable volunteers to explore the lands of Gusty Gulch, Flower Fields, Lavalava Island, Dry Dry Desert, among other locales for one simple purpose: poll the common inhabitants we call "enemies" and ask for their opinion on HP and HP Upgrades.
DaneT
But Princess, what prompted this? Why do you need all of us here, exactly?
PaperPeach64
I need to select a group of appointed official diplomats to survey and interview the native inhabitants of their areas, and ask for their opinions on Heart Points. This survey is, ummm... Important to me. So, would anyone like to step forward as potential representatives to interview their communities?
Nobody raises interest in becoming a diplomat for Peach. Silence echoes through the castle.
PaperPeach64
Well then... I guess I'll have to select the representatives myself. So, listen up! For the area around Goomba Village and Goomba Road... Goombaria.
Goombaria
YES!
Goombario
What!? But I know so much about the area! Goombaria's just annoying.
Goomama
Now now, Goombario. I don't even think that Goombaria will even like this job, exactly.
Goombaria
What do you even mean, mom!?
Goomama
Well, it's just that-
Goompapa
Representing an entire Kingdom because it's sole monarch said so without any pay or compensation would be bound to upset you, sweetie pie.
Gooma
Yes, sweetie... Your father is right.
Goombaria
Does it look like I care? This is my big break, and I'm princess sponsored, too!
Gooma
Well, alright...
Goompa
Whatever makes you happy, Goombaria.
Goombaria
Oh boy, it sure will!
Goombario
Ugh... Girls.
PaperPeach64
For Koopa Village and the surronding area... Kolorado's Wife.
KoloradosWife
Oh. Gee... I'm not sure if I'll be good for the job!
Kolorado
Nonsense, honey! You know that I love to travel the world, and I can absolutely give you some pointers if you need them.
KoloradosWife
You know what, you're right. I can do this!
PaperPeach64
For Dry Dry Desert and it's surrounding areas... Moustafa.
Moustafa
Nice.
KoopaArchaeologist
Make sure you're well hydrated out there, sir!
PaperPeach64
For Forever Forest, Gusty Gulch, and it's surrounding areas... Herbert.
Herbert
You can count on me, princess! I will not disappoint you.
PaperPeach64
I would address the situation with the Shy Guy Toy Box but for now, it's a bit of an enigma. Continuing, the one to survey the inhabitants of Lavalava Island is... Brown Yoshi.
BrownYoshi
Thank you very much for the consideration, princess, but don't you believe that the Village Leader would be a more qualified person to partake in this rather than me?
PaperPeach64
Normally, I would say yes; he would be. However, I will trust you in this instance.
BrownYoshi
Right, then. I won't fail you.
PaperPeach64
I'm glad you can understand. Regardless, I believe the best choice to represent the survey in the area surrounding Flower Fields is... Lakilulu.
Lakilester
HEY! That's my girlfriend you're putting out there on the line for your stupid diplomacy nonsense!
Lakilulu
Lakilester. It's fine. Let it go, I'll be okay.
Lakilester
But-
Lakilulu
I promise everything will be fine.
Lakilester
I-er... Ugh. Fine.
Lakilulu
Now, that's my Lakilester, and dare I say... Spike.
Lakilester
Oh, you...!
PaperPeach64
To assist the research process for Shiver City and the surrounding area... Herringway.
Herringway
Hmph! I think that this should be a breeze for me.
MayorsWife
...But do you have any experience writing non-fiction.
Herringway
Well... Sort of, we'll see.
Bumpty
Of course you'll do great. You're Herringway; the best novelist in Shiver City!
Herringway
Well, yes. Reasonably, I should also do well for this task.
PaperPeach64
Nearing the end now, the one who will partake in data collection for the survey for the area of Star Haven is, er... Um...
Peach looks at a generic Star and points at them.
PaperPeach64
...You.
Star
Huh? Me?
PaperPeach
Yes, you. I would like you to survey the area surronding Star Haven for the residents and their opinions on Heart Points.
Star
Why me, specifically?
PaperPeach64
You were the only one from Star Haven to actually appear in this summons.
Star
I suppose it was because I wasn't particularly, erm... Busy.
PaperPeach64
Understood. Do you understand what you are supposed to do for me?
Star
Kind of.
PaperPeach64
Okay then. Finally, for the area surrounding Toad Town... I choose Minh T.
MinhT
But all I do is gardening! What could I possibly do to help!?
PaperPeach64
Don't worry, I will provide all of you with a guide on what questions to ask, how to approach potential Interviewees, among other helpful information soon. For now, this meeting is dismissed For anyone else who was not called, you may go home. Otherwise, the nine who've I have asked to help me with the survey, please approach me.
The majority of the people leave Peach's Castle. Goombaria, Kolorado's Wife, Moustafa, Herbert, Brown Yoshi, Lakilulu, the random Star, and Minh T. walk up the balcony.
PaperPeach64
All of these are for you guys.
Peach gives each of the "diplomats" a packet.
PaperPeach64
Thank you for being so willing to help me. You may go now. This survey should only take 2 weeks to complete.
Herbert
You got it.
PaperPeach64
Take care now. And be careful!
Goombaria, Kolorado's Wife, Moustafa, Herbert, Brown Yoshi, Lakilulu, the random Star, and Minh T. all leave the castle.
PaperPeach64
I hope they can get the data I need...

Goomba King

The Goomba Family is seen walking home through Toad Town.
Goompapa
Well Goombaria, looks like you have a big responsibility on your feet now!
Goomama
We're so proud of you!
Goombario
But she didn't even do anything!
Goomama
She will, though.
Goombaria
Well, I hope I can do SOMETHING.
The Goomba family reaches the Toad Town gate and are officially on Goomba Road.
Goombaria
Well, let's see. The variety of people I need to speak are a Goomba, a Spiked Goomba, a Paragoomba, the Blue Goomba, the Red Goomba, and the Goomba King.
Goompapa
Now honey, I think that we may be overestimating our daughter.
Goomama
Nonsense! She'll do fine.
Goombario
At least I had fighting experience with THE Mario!
Goompa
Gooma
He's right, you know.
Goombario
Grr...
The Goomba family begins to approach the Goomba King's Fortress.
Goombario
I don't like it here. One time, the Goomba King and his cronies wanted to stop me and Mario from going an-
Goombaria
We know, gee!
Gooma
Is anyone here?
Goompa
I don't think so.
A large Goomba wearing a crown hops up from the cliff below.
GoombaKing
HALT! What on earth are you all doing here? This is my fortress, go away!
Goombaria
Oh, this is the Goomba King himself!
GoombaKing
Actually, I vastly prefer the title "Goomboss". It makes me sound very important indeed.
Goombario
...But you aren't.
GoombaKing
You better watch your mouth, because for real this time, I can absolutely annihilate you!
Goombaria
Uh, we have no interest in fighting you.
GoombaKing
Then WHY are you all in my fortress!?
Goompapa
Well, you did literally build it in the way to stop Mario from reaching Toad Town, and then you failed to stop him, and Bowser was defeated by Mario, and now this exists for no real purpose.
GoombaKing
Don't forget that red idiot knocked me into a tree! It took me days to get out.
Goombaria
Well, on behalf of Mario, we're sorry for our... Misbehavior? Anyways, I specifcally needed to ask you some questions.
GoombaKing
...Fine. Under one condition.
Goombaria
And what that may be?
GoombaKing
You must refer to me as Goomboss.
Goombaria
Okay, Goomboss. Now, let's see...
Goombario pulls out the interview packet by Princess Peach, which contains a notebook, a pencil, and a paper that read as follows:
PaperPeach64
Dear Diplomat,

Please ask any potential interviewee the following 3 questions:
1. What is their HP?
2. Do they think HP upgrades are useful?
3. Do they like Badges?

I'm counting on you! - Peach
Goombaria
So, Goomboss... What is your HP level?
GoombaKing
My WHAT level? Are you trying to insult me!?
Goombaria
No, no! I'm just asking what your maximum Heart Point capacity is.
GoombaKing
Oh. It's 10 HP.
Goombaria
Second question: Do you think HP upgrades are useful?
GoombaKing
You're telling me just NOW I could have upgraded my HP!? I'd love that! Then I can finally get revenge on Mario after so long.
Goombaria
Lastly... Do you like Badges?
GoombaKing
I have no idea what you're even talking about.
Goombaria
Okay then, Goomba King! I think we're all done here. We'll take our leave now.
GoombaKing
HEY! We had a deal!
Goombaria
Oh. right... Gomboss.
GoombaKing
Much better.
Goompa
That was brave of you, lass.
Goombaria
It was nothing, really.
Goombario
I'm braver anyway.
The Goomba family walks through the Goomba King's Fortress and continue on Goomba Road.

Red Goomba and Blue Goomba

The Goomba family are seen walking down Goomba Road.
Goombaria
Hey, guys? I think I'm gonna spend some time here. May as well finish my work fast so I don't have to worry about it later. Knowing me, I'd just procrastinate on it, so I think I'll do it while I'm still in the mood.
The rest of the Goomba family look at Goombaria.
Gooma
Are you sure, Goombaria?
Goomama
It's a little rough out here. Not everyone around here wants to talk or be friends.
Goombaria
I'm confident with myself. I want to do this and actually grow!
Goompapa
I like your spunk, but even I think this is a little intense for you. You almost got hurt by the Goomba King, and I wouldn't say he's hesistant about his words.
Goombaria
My point still stands.
Goompa
Well, Goombaria. If you think you can do it... I will believe you.
Goombario
Well, okay... I think I agree with Goompa. Nowadays, I'm not scared to come down here anymore, and I thank Mario for letting me come with him on his journey.
Goombaria
See!? Even Goombario agrees with me!
Goomama
Alright alright, we'll let you off to your own vices out here.
Gooma
Just be careful, please.
Goombaria
I will! Don't you worry! I will see you all at Goomba Village later today!
The rest of the Goomba family walk home, leaving Goombaria behind.
Goombaria
Now, let's see... If the Goomba King was around here, surely the Goomba Bros. couldn't be too far behind him.
Goombaria walks around Goomba Road for some time, before she is stopped by a voice.

???
HEY!
Goombaria
Hunh, what!?

???
I heard you talked to Goomboss recently and came out unscathed. Do you think you're tough?
Goombaria
Not really, he-

???
Ooh, a humble bragger we have on our feet!? How 'intimidating'!
Goombaria
Wait, are you...?
Out from the bushes, two large Goombas, a red one and a blue one, emerge.
RedGoomba
Look at the widdle pink girlie!
BlueGoomba
I bet she's made of strawberries, because she's just as red as one when she's mad; like right now!
Goombaria
For the last time, I didn't fight the Goomba King! I just wanted to ask him some questions!
BlueGoomba
...Like we'd believe you!
RedGoomba
Blue, I think she's right. I didn't recall seeing Goomboss with any injuries, nor did he have his whiny voice whenever he's hurt either.
BlueGoomba
...So?
RedGoomba
...We should listen to her.
BlueGoomba
Fine. I'll settle down.
Goombaria
Finally, some sense! Now first question: What is your max HP level?
BlueGoomba
6 HP!
RedGoomba
7 HP.
Goombaria
Off to a good start, here! Now, what is your opinion on HP upgrades?
RedGoomba
I only just found out because of Goomboss. I'm so mad I never knew they even existed until now! What a mad world we live in, I tell you.
BlueGoomba
Same here! Now, if I had 16 HP, I bet so many people would find me intimidating.
Goombaria
Okay! Last question. What do you think of Badges.
RedGoomba
...Badges?
BlueGoomba
Badges, what does that mean?
RedGoomba
I dunno.
Goombaria
Truthfully, I really don't know much about them either. I think you wear them and they do something?
BlueGoomba
Well, what a weird question to ask. Any more before we kick your butt?
Goombaria
Nope, that's it. I'll be taking my leave now. Thank you, boys.
BlueGoomba
You're probably not welcome!
RedGoomba
I might regret this decision later, don't know. Get back to me later on it.
Goombaria
Whatever. See you boys later.

Goombaria walks off, and heads further down Goomba Road.
{{{2}}}

Spiked Goomba

Goombaria is walking on Goomba Road and notices a Spiked Goomba.
Goombaria
Um, excuse me?
The Spiked Goomba looks back angrily toward Goombaria.
SpikedGoomba
Hey! Watch it!
Goombaria
I'm not here to cause trouble. I just want to ask you some questions.
SpikedGoomba
Okay... What kind of questions?
Goombaria
Simple questions. 3 of them, in fact.
SpikedGoomba
Not specific enough. Tell me, or I won't have any qualms running this spike on my head into you.
Goombaria
Yikes! Okay okay, it's about your thoughts on HP. Don't hurt me, please!
SpikedGoomba
That's oddly specific. Are you sure you're not a scammer? Because I hate scammers.
Goombaria
Well... It's for a survey.
SpikedGoomba
Okay, fine. Ask away.
Goombaria
Okay then! First, what is your max HP?
SpikedGoomba
2 HP.
Goombaria
What is your opinion on HP upgrades?
SpikedGoomba
Hate 'em. I like to live on the scary side of life.
Goombaria
And finally, what is your opinion on Badges?
SpikedGoomba
I'm familiar with them, they seem pretty cool.
Goombaria
Okay then, I think I've asked enough. Thank you for your time.
SpikedGoomba
Fine, whatever.
Goombaria walks away.

Paragoomba

A Paragoomba can be seen flying in the sky.
Goombaria
Um, hello?
Paragoomba
What?
Goombaria
I want to talk to you!
Paragoomba
For what reason?
Goombaria
An interview!
The Paragoomba flies down to Goombaria's level.
Paragoomba
Sure. Sounds fun.
Goombaria
Okay, that went better than expected. Anyways, what's your max HP?
Paragoomba
2 HP, why?
Goombaria
It's part of the survey.
Paragoomba
Okay. What's my next question?
Goombaria
What is your opinion on HP upgrades?
Paragoomba
Honestly don't care. I can live my life however I want, and I prefer to not engage in combat. That being said, I absolutely hate the sound of people walking and it makes me want to smash their guts out. Ugh... The noise still grinds through my system.
Goombaria
Oh, wow... Anyways, last question. What is your opinion on Badges?
Paragoomba
I've seen a few around here. They're fine, I guess. No real use for me in particular.
Goombaria
Okay then, Mr. Paragoomba. Thank you for your time!
Paragoomba
No problem! Nobody ever really talks to me and the only footstep sounds I'm fine with are Goomba sounds since we're so lightweight. Once, a fat Italian plumber came through here and my sensory was in agony, I was blinded by rage that I tried to attack him, but he didn't care to notice me at all.
Goombaria
Fascinating story! Maybe once you get to know them, maybe not all of the Goombas on Goomba Road are so bad, after all...
Paragoomba
No, be careful. Quite a few have unrivaled bloodlust.
Goombaria
That makes sense. Thank you for your time and the warning!
Paragoomba
No problem.
Goombaria walked away from the Paragoomba.

Goomba

Goombaria can be seen walking over a bridge. At the other side was a normal, standard, plain, ubiquitous, austerity, average Goomba.
Goombaria
Um... Hello?
The Goomba turned around with intensity.
Goomba
What? What do you want!?
Goombaria
I want to ask you a few questions. An interview, if you will.
Goomba
Why would you want anything from me!? All you're just gonna do is toss me aside and ignore me, just like everyone else!
Goombaria
But what I want you to do would be helpful.
Goomba
For what purpose? Are you just gonna say I'm boring and only prove the point that all of the other Goombas with spimes and wings; that I'm just a nobody?
Goombaria
Uh, no! I never implied that!
Goomba
...Fine! Make it quick.
Goombaria
What is your max HP?
Goomba
2.
Goombaria
What is your poinion on HP upgrades.
Goomba
Decline to answer.
Goombaria
And what is your opinion on Badges?
Goomba
No opinion. There, you happy now? Go away.
Goombaria
Yes, I am satisfied.
Goomba
Good. Now leave.
Goombaria walks across the bridge, passing by the Goomba.

Back at Goomba Village

Goombaria arrives in Goomba Village. Goomama greets her.
Goomama
Welcome back, sweetie! You're back early. Did things go well?
Goombaria
I'd say so.
Goompapa
That's my girl!
Goombario
You know, you could have just asked me the enemies' max HP and you could've just saved the trouble. Just saying.
Goombaria
Well, I also don't recall you snaking out and trying to talk with the other Goombas. Thanks for the thought, but I've got this.
Goombario
...It was worth a shot.
Goombaria seals her survey data in an envelope for Princess Peach.
Goombaria
Well, that's it for me. I wonder how the others are all doing...
END OF CHAPTER
Goombaria had finished her survey, unexpectedly early as well. She now had the weekend off and was looking forward to playing with Goombario, as well as chatting with her new friend, the random Paragoomba that is indistinguishable from the dozens that also inhabit Goomba Road. Will Kolorado's Wife's adventure be as daring and thrilling?

Chapter 1: Plain to See Koopa Kuarrel

Written by ProblematicPeriwinklePlum.

The walk back from Peach's Castle

Kolorado and his wife are seen walking in Toad Town, on their way to Pleasant Path to get back to Koopa Village.
KoloradosWife
How exactly do I even start this out? It's not often I go on big adventures. That's kind of your thing, Kolorado.
Kolorado
Indeed it is! It would be an honor if I could perhaps tale initiative and begin research on your behalf!
Kolorado attempts to grab the packet out of his wife's hands, but she pulls it away from him.
KoloradosWife
I think that it's best left to me. After all, Princess Peach was the one who assigned me the job, after all.
Kolorado
Sigh, I guess you're right.
KoloradosWife
I don't think it should take too terribly long, after all.
Kolorado's Wife looks through the packet for a list of enemies to interview.
KoloradosWife
Okay, so we have... Koopa Troopas, Paratroopas, Fuzzies, and Bob-ombs.
Kolorado
Hey, we're Koopa Troopas! Shouldn't we be able to fill this section ourselves and save us some trouble?
KoloradosWife
No, the packet specifically mentions the red shelled ones with sunglasses and spiked collars that are known to attack unsuspecting passerby.
Kolorado
Well, I guess she couldn't live without making 'someones life miserable, eh?
KoloradosWife
Oh, ugh...
Kolorado and his wife walk to the east of Toad Town, and are on Pleasant Path.

Koopa Troopa

Kolorado and his wife are seen walking down Pleasant Path. with Kolorado looking around for anything suspicious while his wife vomtinues to look at and review her survey packet.
Kolorado
Well honey, this is our walk. I'll make sure we're well protected!
KoloradosWife
Sure, you can do that.
Kolorado and his wife walk over a footbridge.
Kolorado
This bridge is nice, would be a shame if someone decided to attack us here.
A red Koopa Troopa retracts into his shell and spins toward Kolorado and his wife.
Kolorado
GAH! SPARE ME!
The red Koopa Troopa pins Kolorado down to the ground, holding him by his throat.
KoopaTroopa
And why should I spare you in particular? What have you done in this world to make you above the rest?
KoloradosWife
Leave him alone!
KoopaTroopa
If he can't answer my question, then you can: Why does 'he' deserve to be spared from being beaten senseless by me!?
KoloradosWife
Well, um... He likes to explore. First, he went to Dry Dry Desert to rescue the Star Spirit being held captive there, Mamar, and then Mario actually did that instead. Then he went on a big blue whale to get to Lavalava Island to get a treasure, only to be foiled by Mario. And then he went to explore the Crystal Palace... And he's never really home. All he likes to do is run off and he never has time for me!
Kolorado
What?
KoopaTroopa
You know, this man right here is abolutely pathetic. He thinks that he could just keep running away from his problems, and they continue to stab him in the back consistently. A part of me is tempted to just put him out his misery, but it would simply be far more entertaining for me if I were to just...
The red Koopa Troopa releases his grip from Kolorado's throat and lets him go.
KoopaTroopa
...Let his existence speak for himself.
Kolorado
Oh, thank you! I owe my life debt to you!
KoopaTroopa
No you don't.
KoloradosWife
Wait, could I ask you something?
KoopaTroopa
...For what?
KoloradosWife
A survey. Just three simlly questions. It'll take less than a minute.
The red Koopa Troopa snickers at Kolorado's Wife.
KoopaTroopa
Heh... You are adorable.
KoloradosWife
Excuse me, but I'm already married to the man that one moment you were ready to end his life.
KoopaTroopa
No, I'm not attracted to you! I don't even like women! I'm just saying "adorable" as in I find your submission and absolute naïveté to be quite pathetic.
KoloradosWife
My... You are so unbelievably rude!
KoopaTroopa
And you are not unique in any way for saying that to me.
KoloradosWife
So are you gonna answer my questions or not, tough guy?
KoopaTroopa
Well, I suppose I could. Don't think we're anything like friends, though.
KoloradosWife
I wouldn't have it any other way. Now then... What is your max HP?
KoopaTroopa
4 HP. What are you gonna do, hire a mercenary to assassinate me and you're trying to find my weaknesses?
KoloradosWife
You think too much about nothing at all. Anyways, what do you think about HP upgrades?
KoopaTroopa
Don't need 'em. If you hit hard, you won't have to worry about my healty. And I 'do' hit hard, I can make your life escape your body in an instant.
KoloradosWife
Okay... And for the last question: What do you think of badges?
KoopaTroopa
Who needs 'em? They're nothing more than accessories. Anybody who actually uses badges are nothing more than worrying scamps who have nothing better to do than worry about their mortality.
Kolorado's Wife finishes writing down the responses and puts away the packet with a deep, resounding feeling of contempt.
KoloradosWife
The good news is that you just answered the last question, and that I never have to see you again. The bad news is... Nothing really. I hope you have a nice day.
KoopaTroopa
You're funny. Or at least you think you're funny. You don't ever realise what you are doing anymore.
Kolorado
Come on sweetie, let's get out of this guy's face already. I've had enough of this guy's absolute insanity in the way he composes himself.
Kolorado and his wife walk across the bridge, walking away from the Koopa Troopa.
KoopaTroopa
Yes, keep walking. You may walk away from me, but you'll never forget me. I assure you that I've taught you more about life than anyone else!
Kolorado and his wife pretended to not hear anything, and continue to plod across Pleasant Path.
Kolorado
I nearly thought that I was over there. The relief that rushed through my bones was absolutely euphoric. You saved me there, sweetie.
KoloradosWife
It's... Nothing.
Kolorado
By the way, I have a question about what you said back there about me...
KoloradosWife
...Yes
Kolorado
Back when you were trying to give me reasons for me to be spared by that absolute piece of work, you said that you think that all I do is run off and avoid you.
Kolorado's Wife stops walking.
KoloradosWife
Yes. I'm tired of you constantly ignoring me and forgetting about all of the promises we've made years ago. Remember when we were engaged on that beautiful evening, and you promised to take me to the Boggly Woods, across the blue horizon?
Kolorado
I do remember that. Why?
KoloradosWife
We've never, ever done that. All you want to do is go by yourself and with your two fruity friends.
Kolorado
Why, erm... Sweetie! We could go later this week! I have enough coins saved from my travels to afford everything! I promise.
KoloradosWife
You could throw all of the time and money at me now, but the real problem is that you forgot all about our relationship. We're hardly a couple, we're just two halves connected by a very thin marriage.
Kolorado
I'm sorry for forgetting about our promise all those years ago! Please, give me another chance!
KoloradosWife
I want to, but I'm not sure. With all of this stuff piling up, I'm left in doubts over my own life decisions. I'm at a loss. Deep down inside, I know I still love you; but that love is becoming harder and harder for me to even be reached.
Kolorado
...Sorry.
KoloradosWife
"Sorry" is just a word. Actions speak louder than words, and you've done more than you've said for me to put me in doubts.
Kolorado
...I don't know.
KoloradosWife
You don't know what?
Kolorado
I don't know how to fix this. I don't know how to fix myself. I'm at a loss.
Kolorado's Wife continues to press on.
KoloradosWife
Come on. If you're truly lost... Then stay lost. Otherwise, you can follow me home.
Kolorado begins to walk behind his wife down Pleasant Path.

Paratroopa

Kolorado and his wife continue to walk down Pleasant Path.
Kolorado
Honey, say something to me. Please.
KoloradosWife
I have nothing to say.
A Paratroopa flies over the disgruntled couple.
Paratroopa
They look particularly vulnerable. Let me give them a spooky surprise.
The Paratroopa flies over Kolorado and his wife, and then begins to circle around them.
Kolorado
Ugh! Cut it out!
Paratroopa
Make me!
KoloradosWife
Okay.
Kolorado's Wife grabs the Paratroopa by the right wing with little fuss, and he begins to struggle.
Paratroopa
Hey! No fair! I was saying it rhetroically. Rhetroically I say, not literally!
KoloradosWife
Okay then, give me a reason to let you go!
Paratroopa
Um... I can fly! That's cool, right!? I can also zip and zoom, charging towards unsuspecting strangers and surprise them with painful tacklings, courtesey of me.
KoloradosWife
Hurting people isn't cool.
Kolorado's Wife tugs on the Paratroopa's wing.
Paratroopa
Okay, okay! I'm a terrible person! Just please let me go!
KoloradosWife
I can let you go... If you can speak up and anwser my questions.
Kolorado
What has gone into you!?
KoloradosWife
Shush! Anyways, Mr. Paratroopa, what is your Max HP?
Paratroopa
4 HP! 4 HP! Please don't hurt me anymore!
KoloradosWife
Okay, now what is your opinion on HP upgrades?
Paratroopa
I don't know! I rewlly don't know!
KoloradosWife
Lastly, what is your opinion on Badges?
Paratroopa
They're okay! I guess!
Kolorado's Wife lets go of her grip on the Paratroopa's wing.
Paratroopa
You are an awful, awful person! I wish nothing more than death upon you!
The Paratroopa tried to fly, but realises his right wing has been broken and plummets to the ground. He then walks away, with the pulled wing being dragged across the ground.
KoloradosWife
That's standing up for yourself, Kolorado.
Kolorado
No, what you did right there... That was more than mean. I'm not even sure if I can say, let alone find the words to describe how I'm feeling towards you right now. I don't even know if I can look at you in the face.
KoloradosWife
As you can see, I hardly ever spoke to the Paratroopa. I'd rather do something like hurt him than actually talk and reason with him. That's what you've been doing to me.
Kolorado
Are you implying I beat up people and leave them senseless? I'll admit it, I'm nothing more than a coward! I never want to fight anybody!
Kolorado runs off into the distance, trying to not sound as if he is crying.
KoloradosWife
...Did I go to far?
Kolorado's Wife looks down the cliffs, looking at the river below.
KoloradosWife
Did I just... Do that?
Kolorado's Wifes stops looking at the water, then to her hands, touching herself in disbelief.
KoloradosWife
...What have I become?
Kolorado's Wife grabs her research packet, and writes down the answers that the Paratroopa gave for his questions.
KoloradosWife
...

Koopa Village

Kolorado somberly walks into Koopa Village.
GreenKoopa
Hey look, it's Kolorado!
BobOmb
I wonder if he's got a new quest under his, erm... Metaphorical belt.
Kolorado
No... I'm done travelling, and I don't know if I even have the strength to keep going.
Kolorado enters his house and slams the door behind him.
GreenKoopa
What's his problem?
BobOmb
Dunno.
Kooper
Well, I gotta find out what's the matter with him, because if no one else checks in... Who will?
Kooper knocks on Kolorado's House door.
Kooper
Kolorado
A voice can be heard from the other side of the house.
Kolorado
Go away! I don't want to talk to anyone right now!
Kooper
Are you sure, you came into town trying not to sob. Is something wrong?
Kolorado
I have a lot of problems that you will never understand.
Kooper
I may not be able to fully understand your problems, but what I can do is listen. I may not have the age and experience that you have, but I am here for you to lean on. I'm trying.
Kolorado
...Come in.
Kooper gently opens the door into Kolorado's home. He has packed away a variety of pictures and belongings.
Kooper
It's... Unusually compact in here today. What's happening? Are you moving?
Kolorado
I can't say for sure right now, but I will say that me and my wife had a Growtopiafalling out earlier today.
Kooper
Oh no! What happened?
Kolorado
I was walking home with my wife, and then one of those red-shelled Koopas attacked me. My wife painted me in a bad light, and the Koopa found me to be pathetic and ragged on me and my wife. My wife later got mad that I rarely ever spend any time home and is still insistent that she wanted to go to Boggly Woods for our post-wedding trip that's been pushed off for a while now. Next, a Paratroopa circled around us and she grabbed his wing and made him answer some questions for a survey thing that Peach assigned her to do, while he struggled and screamed. I felt horrible. I feel very conflicted, I believe myself that I've been a terrible person, but then she went too far on that bully Paratroopa as revenge. I don't know who I am, or who I'm with.
Kooper
Well, your wife has often laid inside the house and attending to your responsibilites that you often neglect because you like to travel. I like to see you travel around the world and find treasures too, but I did talk to your wife sometimes. I personally think that this was an instance of things reaching a boiling point. Where is she now, anyways?
Kolorado
She's still out in Pleasant Path doing that survey thing.
Kooper
...A survey thing? What's that?
Kolorado
Did you get a letter from Princess Peach asking to attend a gathering that would happen today?
Kooper
No.
Kolorado
Well, we went to that gathering because we both got letters addressed to us to attend said meeting. Basically, the princess wanted select individuals to ask the local enemies some survey questions. For the area around Koopa Village, she chose my wife to represent that area in the survey.
Kooper
I see. I assume she's still doing her work, then?
Kolorado
Yeah... But if you're gonna telll me to go back out there and apologize, I'm not gonna do it. Everything just happened so quickly and suddenly... I think we need the time apart for the time being. I hope you can understand, Kooper.
Kooper
I do, don't worry about that aspect.
Kolorado
That's good.
Kooper
Is that all?
Kolorado
I think so. If you'd be so kind, I think I need some time to think and relfect on myself and my relationship.
Kooper
I understand. I'll see myself out.
Kolorado
Thank you.
Kooper leaves Kolorado's House.
Kooper
I can't say that I didn't try.
GreenKoopa
Don't feel bad, he's just having his time of the month.
Kooper
No, Krell. I talked to him. Apparently, he and his wife may split.
Oh. That's significantly less funny. I'm leaving.
Krell walks away.
Kooper
Hopefully things aren't as bad as Kolorado made them out to be... But I'm not confident in that, sadly.

Fuzzy

Kolorado's Wife can be seen on the ledge that forks between Koopa Village and the Koopa Bros. Fortress.
KoloradosWife
I feel awful, I was too harsh on Kolorado... How can I even make it up to him for putting him through those awful thoughts?
Kolorado's Wife looks down at Koopa Village, then to the Koopa Bros. Fortress.
KoloradosWife
I'm not ready. I may as well try to finish up this survey instead of Isekaiwallowing in my own sorrows.
Kolorado's Wife tries stepping towards the direction towards the Koopa Bros. Fortress, but notices a Candy Cane looking at her.
KoloradosWife
Hmm... That thing looks weird.
Kolorado's Wife tries to walk away from the Candy Cane, but it's eyes follow her.
KoloradosWife
Are you... Looking at me?
CandyCane
KoloradosWife
Well, I'll be on my way.
CandyCane
Kolorado's Wife continues walking, but is abruptly stopped by a Fuzzy.
Fuzzy
Bwehehe! How unfortunate of you to cross me! Now get your life SUCKED out!
KoloradosWife
Oh no!
The Fuzzy hops around and chases Kolorado's Wife. Kolorado's Wife has an idea, while she runs in circles.
KoloradosWife
WAIT! What's your max HP?
Fuzzy
MEEEEEEEOOOOOWWWWW! 3 HP!
KoloradosWife
Opinion on HP upgrades!
Fuzzy
If it could keep me busy, yes!
KoloradosWife
What about badges?
Fuzzy
Don't care. BWEEEEEEEE!
The Fuzzy chases Kolorado's Wife around the Candy Cane.
CandyCane
Hearts spew out of the Candy Cane.
KoloradosWife
Where is this HP coming from?
Fuzzy
Life! LIIIFFFFEEEE!
The Fuzzy continues to circle the Candy Cane, and Kolorado's Wife steps aside from the circle from the distracted Fuzzy.
KoloradosWife
Phew. That was a close call right there.
Kolorado's Wife writes down the notes about the Fuzzy, and proceeds to walk towards the Koopa Bros. Fortress.

Bob-omb

Kolorado's Wife approaches the Koopa Bros. Fortress.
KoloradosWife
Why am I even here? I'm supposed to be doing a survey! Oh well, better get my mind off of things. It's for the better.
Kolorado's Wife notices a pink Bob-omb attempting to attack the walls of the castle.
Bombette
Darn... Castle... Walls! I hate you! For all of the pain you caused for me! I'll never be free!
Kolorado's Wife hesitates for a moment, then inches toward the pink Bob-omb.
KoloradosWife
Um... Excuse me?
Bombette
Yes? I'm kind of busy.
KoloradosWife
I couldn't help but notice you were upset. What's got you down?
Bombette
A few months ago, some busy-bodies known as the Koopa Bros. decided to take over the Bob-omb Fortress, turning it into their own! I once used to live in that fortress, but it was taken away from me! They're total jerks, and they don't know when to give up. I've tried to live in Koopa Village with the other Bob-ombs, but it's just not the same... It's too bright.
KoloradosWife
What's wrong with Koopa Village? It's a little cozy place, fairly quiet too.
Bombette
I never really adjustes to it. I want to live back in here, but the Koopa Bros. insist that this is till their abode. They lost! Bowser lost! Why are they still here?
The black Ninjakoopa peeks his head out of the fortress wall and shoots towards Bombette.
BlackNinjakoopa
You better stop trying to damage our fort or else we'll kick your butt!
KoloradosWife
Wait, do I know you?
Bombette
Really? Last time I remember fighting you, I beat you and your three friends badly!
BlackNinjakoopa
We've been training, too! In fact, with that attitude, I'd say you asked for it.
Bombette
Asked for what now?
Three members of the Koopa Bros leap out of the fortress window and fall to the ground, injuring themselves in the process. However, they get back up and strike their signature poses.
RedNinjakoopa
The Koopa Bros. are officially GO!
YellowNinjakoopa
Since you don't know when to give up, we'll make the decision for you!
KoloradosWife
Wait, weren't you three once residents of Koopa Village?
RedNinjakoopa
Yeah-I mean, no! We were never ever a part of your slummy little hamlet!
YellowNinjakoopa
Actually, we did used to live there, but Bo-
RedNinjakoopa
Sssssshhhhhhut up!
YellowNinjakoopa
Sorry boss.
BlackNinjakoopa
We mean buisiness, so go ahead and scram, or else...!
The black Ninjakoopa points towards a window in the fortress, and Kolorado's Wife and Bombette look at it, only to see nothing in it.
Bombette
Or else... What, exactly?
KoloradosWife
Yeah, what exactly are you trying to threaten us with?
The black Ninjakoopa notices the bare window inside, and looks embarrassed.
BlackNinjakoopa
Green! Get the cannons out!
The Green Ninjakoopa stuggles to place a Bill Blaster in the window, but manages to place it.
GreenNinjakoopa
...Or else you'll get blown to smithereens! Bombs away!
A Bullet Bill is fired from the Bill Blaster.
BillBlaster
BUH-BOOM!
BulletBill
Target acquired!
The Bullet Bill begins to home on Bombette and Kolorado's Wife.
Bombette
Quick, duck!
KoloradosWife
What about you?
Bombette
Don't worry about me!
Kolorado's Wife retracts into her shell, and Bombette parries away from the Bullet Bill, leading it directly into a wall.
BulletBill
Oh n-
The Bullet Bill detonates, damaging the wals of the fortress and causing a large hole to appear.
GreenNinjakoopa
Whoops. That wasn't supposed to happen.
RedNinjakoopa
You imbeciles! You were SUPPOSED to get hit by the Bullet Bill! And now you made it hit our wall, which will take time and resources to repair!
GreenNinjakoopa
And I brought this cannon for nothing! I'm always the afterthought of the group anymore.
RedNinjakoopa
Shut up, Green. You don't matter.
YellowNinjakoopa
That was mean!
RedNinjakoopa
You too, Yellow.
BlackNinjakoopa
Now then, we expect you to help us repair these walls!
KoloradosWife
Why would we have to repair the walls? It was your flawed plan that damaged your own building?
Bombette
It's not even theirs! They took it from us Bob-ombs!
BlackNinjakoopa
Blah blah blah. Get to work.
Bombette
No.
RedNinjakoopa
Do your jobs!
Bombette
Actually, I do have a job I can do.
YellowNinjakoopa
And what may that be?
Bombette
This.
Bombette runs off frantically away from the Koopa Bros, heading back towards the Koopa Village fork.
KoloradosWife
I just remembered that I uh... Have a Yoshi Cookie I left unattended! Don't want that to go get chewed up and nasty by bugs!
Kolorado's Wife runs off in the same direction as Bombette.
BlackNinjakoopa
They're not coming back, are they?
RedNinjakoopa
Nope.
Bombette and Kolorado's Wife run back to the fork with the Candy Cane.
Bombette
Phew... What a ride.
KoloradosWife
Well, it sure was... An experience. I'm sorry I was so rude, but what is your name?
Bombette
It's Bombette! Pleased to make your acquaintance, er...
KoloradosWife
I'm Kolorado's Wife, but my actual na-
A Bob-omb walks up to Bombette and Kolorado's Wife.
BobOmb
I just heard an explosion! What happened? Is everything okay?
Bombette
Yep, everything's fine. Just the Koopa Bros. acring like idiots as usual. Today, they decided it'd be a great idea to blow up a hole in their walls.
KoloradosWife
Oh, are you a... Bob-omb?
BobOmb
Yes I am. Why?
KoloradosWife
I need to gather some data by interviewing some locals. Would you mind helping?
BobOmb
Sure! Ask away.
KoloradosWife
Okay, what is your max HP?
BobOmb
Uhhh... I think it's 3?
KoloradosWife
Okay, what is your opinion on HP upgrades?
BobOmb
I don't think I care.
KoloradosWife
Oh. Okay... What is your opinion on badges?
BobOmb
Uhh... I think they're cool.
Kolorado's Wife wrties down the info in the study packet and puts it away.
KoloradosWife
Thank you!
BobOmb
No problem.
Bombette
I'm gonna head back to Koopa's village, uh... Kolorado's Wife. See you later, hopefully!
Bombette and the generic Bob-Omb walk back to Koopa Village.
KoloradosWife
Well... No turning back now. It's time to face my mistakes and own up to them.
Kolorado's Wife breathes in and out, and begins to take steps towards Koopa Village.

Back at Koopa Village Again

Kolorado's Wife takes a few steps into Koopa Village.
KoloradosWife
Is Kolorado here?
GreenKoopa
He ran into his house earlier. Kooper went in to check on him, and came back out not too long afterwards.
KoloradosWife
I think I'll talk to him.
Kolorado's Wife knocks on his door.
KoloradosWife
Kolorado?
No response is given.
KoloradosWife
Well, good thing I keep a spare set of keys on me in case this ever happened.
Kolorado's Wife reaches into her handkerchief and pulls out a key, and opens the door, showing a sleeping Kolorado.
KoloradosWife
Well... I don't blame him for trying to sleep away his sorrows.
Kolorado soon wakes up with a startle.
Kolorado
No, please don't go!
KoloradosWife
What?
Kolorado
I had a nightmare about you. I ran back home, packed stuff as if I were to leave, and then decided to take a nap. What I never thought would happen is that I'd have a nightmare over our quarrel earlier...
KoloradosWife
It's okay. I'm sorry for coming off so harsh and wanting to make an example, I realise how stupid of me it was to do that.
Kolorado
No, you had a point. We really did put things off. I'm sorry for sidelining you.
KoloradosWife
It's okay.
Kolorado and his wife hug.
Kolorado
I can't even remember the last time we've hugged!
The embrace ends.
KoloradosWife
I'm glad we managed to overcome our issues.
Kolorado and his wife walk out of the house.
KoopaKoot
Well, well... I'm glad those two have seen sense.
Kolorado
Honey, the first thing we're gonna do next week is something you've been wanting for a long time now!
KoloradosWife
And what would that be?
Kolorado pulls out a pair of tickets from under his hat.
Kolorado
Ferry tickets for two on course for [[BETTER ZEITGEIST � Counter-Perry � Da zeitgeissst � Dairy � Dead Green Paper Niko � Gramium � Gravestone � In a Nutshe'Il � Island Monster � Kumon 2 � Tahmahtoh Clones|Rougeport]]. From there, I arranged for us to make our way to see the Boggly Woods!
KoloradosWife
Oh my! Yes! I'd love that!
BobOmb
Hooray for Kolorado and his wife!
The Koopa Village residents clap.
Bombette
That's really neat!
Kooper
An adventure... Together. I wouldn't have it any other way.
GreenKoopa
I have a bit of a trip planned for myself, too!
The Green Koopa Troopa from earlier pulls over a raft made out of logs.
GreenKoopa
I'm gonna head to Lavalava Island! The river on Pleasant Path drains into the ocean, and from there, I can make my way to paradise!
The rest of the Koopa Village residents fall silent, then burst into laughter.
Bombette
Ha! Do you seriously think that dinky raft will get you across the sea?
Kooper
I bet you'd probably fall victim to a storm, have your raft break, and then drown... Only to be rescued by some ugly weirdo lifeguard! Wouldn't that be a tale to tell through the ages!?
GreenKoopa
But... But... Urgh!
The Green Koopa pulls his raft out of the village and out to Pleasant Path.
GreenKoopa
I'll show you all! I'll come back to Koopa Village, and be alive at that! Wouldn't that be something?
KoopaKoot
Yeah, a tale to tell... To your grave! Heh heh!
GreenKoopa
Grr...
The green Koopa continues to walk away with his raft.
BobOmb
Regardless... A victory for Kolorado!
Kolorado
It's nothing. Without my wife, I don't know where I'd be. She's right, I did in fact lose myself!
KoloradosWife
Hehe, oh you!
The rest of Koopa Village continues to chatter about the Kolorado Boat Trip to Rougeport en route to Boggly Woods.
Bombette
It feels like things wrapped up... Too nicely.
Kooper
Who cares? Things weren't as bad as I thought them to have intially been! A little victory for Kooper!
Bombette
Yeah, but something's off... What just happened?
END OF CHAPTER
Kolorado and his wife kapt to their word: the next week, they left on a boat to Rougeport. Kolorado's Wife remembered her survey, and asked Kooper to give it to Princess Peach pn the due date. As for the other Koopa who wanted to sail the seas on a dinky raft, he did just that, following the river current down into the sea... Will that journey be a success?

Chapter 2: Dry Dry Desert Dilemma

Written by User:Christianosc.

÷Moustafa Entering the Desert=

Moustafa
Let’s see these questions that I got to ask.
Moustafa takes a look at the questions.
Moustafa
Okay, I should start with interviewing a Pokey. They’re all around the area, easy enough.

Pokey

Moustafa walks up to a Pokey.
Moustafa
Heya, you a Pokey? Heh, just kidding. Of course you are.
Pokey
...
Moustafa
It was a joke.
Pokey
...
Moustafa
A-Anyway... I have some questions to ask you about Heart Points.
Pokey
...
Moustafa
First one, what is your HP?
Pokey
...
Moustafa
...I’ll just put 4 since that's a common max. Second question, do you think HP upgrades are useful?
Pokey
...
Moustafa becomes visibly annoyed.
Moustafa
Blink for yes.
Pokey
...*slowly blinks*
Moustafa
Oookay, last one. Do you like Badges?
Pokey
...
Moustafa
Look, this would be easier if you actually said something!
Pokey
SHEEBYDEEBY!
Moustafa
??? I’m sorry, what?!
Pokey
SHEENY SHLOOBY DWEEBY!
Moustafa
Is that a yes??
Pokey
SHLOOB SHUCH SHOOB!
Moustafa
Ummmm, okay! Thank you for your time.
Moustafa walks far away from the Pokey.
Moustafa
That was strange. Anyway, who's next?
A Buzzy Beetle is spotted in the distance.

Buzzy Beetle

Moustafa
Hey, a Buzzy Beetle. Let's see if i can speak to them...
BuzzyBeetle
GAH! Oh no, not you! You’re not stealing my shell again!
Moustafa
Ha ha! That’s not what I’m here for, this time. I’ve been asked to ask you some question about Heart Points.
BuzzyBeetle
Oh, those things that give you more health?
Moustafa
Yup, now first question: what's your max hp level?
BuzzyBeetle
7 HP!
Moustafa
Okay, now what do you think of HP upgrades?
BuzzyBeetle
I think they're useful, too bad I never come across them cause of stupid Mario.
PaperMario
The Buzzy Beetle's "stupid Mario" comment echoes through the dunes.
PaperMario
*Frowns*
Moustafa
Last question: Do you like badges?
BuzzyBeetle
Badges? I don’t think I know what those are?
Moustafa
You know they can give you more attack power, defense, and more usage outside of that.
BuzzyBeetle
I mean, I guess they sound cool? But I’ve never seen one.
Moustafa
Alright. Welp, that's all the questions, thank you for your time.
BuzzyBeetle
You’re welcome- wait a minute. MY SHELL!!! WHERE’D IT GO?!?! GRRR! WAS THIS QNA A DISTRACTION???
Moustafa
Hey! I swear it wasn’t me. Whoever did it was pretty good though, better than me! HAH just kidding, no one is better than me.

Bandit

Bandit
Mwhahaaa! This is a great steal! I can use this as defense when some lame-o like Mario tries to ruin my steal!
PaperMario
*blinks*
The Bandit's "lame-o Mario" comment echoes through the dunes.
PaperMario
*FROWNS*
The Bandit is stopped by a mysterious figure.
Bandit
Huh?
Sheek
Hello traveler, would you like something interesting?
Bandit
It will depend on what your referring to.
Sheek
I’m referring to...
Sheek removes his disguise, revealing him to be Moustafa.
Moustafa
Me, hey.
Bandit
AH! What the? What do you want? If you came for the shell, I’m not giving it back!
Moustafa
That’s not what I followed you for. I actually don’t care. I have some questions to ask, actually.
Bandit
Don’t think I care, seeya!
The Bandit runs off to Dry Dry Oasis.
Bandit
I got away, now to put this in my collection.
Moustafa
What collection?
Bandit
AH! How’d you know where I was!?
Moustafa
I know where loads of people are. Now, about those questions...
Bandit
Fine, if it will get you to leave me alone.
Moustafa
Good, now what is your max HP?
Bandit
I think it’s 5.
Moustafa
What’s your opinion on HP upgrades?
Bandit
What is that?
Moustafa
You don’t know what that is?
Bandit
No, sounds dumb.
Moustafa
Well, they increase the number of max health you can have.
Bandit
Really?? Man, then I gotta add that to the list.
Moustafa
...List?
The Bandit takes out a long piece of paper.
Moustafa
What is that?
Bandit
Oh! It’s my list of things I want to steal, wanna know what’s on?
Moustafa
Um... no-
Bandit
Moustafa
Okay okay, I get it. Last question: do you like Badges?
Bandit
Do I like badges? I think this collection can answer that.
The bandit presents a Rickroll Becoming Uncannypersonal collection of badges he had acrewed.
Moustafa
Where’d you get so much?
Bandit
My friend. And I steal from Mario. Wanna see what I got?
Moustafa
Not really... But anyway, thanks for the answers.
Moustafa walks off.
Bandit
Thank goodness he’s gone, now what was I up to?

???
HEY!
Bandit
Huh? Oh shoot!
The Bandit runs off.
BuzzyBeetle
Come back here with my shell, you white masked freak!

Dry Dry Ruins Arrival

Moustafa
Glad that’s over with, I should ask some enemies in another area. Let’s see... I’m gonna go to Dry Dry Ruins.
Moustafa heads to Dry Dry Ruins and enters.

Swooper

Moustafa
I've arrived, now I’m in a dark area, meaning... Swoops!
A Swoop flies out.
Swooper
Aw man, did I make it that obvious?
Moustafa
Kinda, but I’m here to ask you a few questions.
Swooper
Me? Why me?
Moustafa
I mean, you’re right here.
Swooper
Fair, shoot.
Moustafa
What’s your max HP?
Swooper
6! That's nice, right?
Moustafa
I mean, I guess it's alright? Anyway, what do you think of HP upgrades?
Swooper
I don’t use them. I just like to mess with people.
Moustafa
Heh, same. Lastly, what do you think of Badges?
Swooper
Eh, don’t care for those either.
Moustafa
Okay, that’s it. Thanks for chatting.
Swooper
No prob.
Moustafa
Say, you know any other enemies here I can talk to?
Swooper
Well, there’s a Pokey Mummy around here... Somewhere.

Pokey Mummy

PokeyMummy
Dulbny!
Moustafa
Yeah, I’m just putting your answers as yes for everything. Pokeys are so hard to talk to.
PokeyMummy
The Mummy Pokey frowns.
Moustafa
Fine, what’s your max HP?
PokeyMummy
Foury!
Moustafa
OK, well that's it. Now, there’s one more person I should talk to.

Tutankoopa

Tutankoopa
Hmm... Something's off. I sense... An intruder in my lair out there!
Chomp
*BARK BARK BARK*
Tutankoopa
Correct, my beloved Chain Chomp. It’s that thief!
Moustafa
Relax, TK. I didn’t come here to steal anything... Well, not yet anyways. I’m came here cause I was assigned to ask you some questions.
Tutankoopa
First of all, don’t call me TK. Refer to me as Tutankoopa. Secondly, I don’t like you admitting to wanting to steal! Thirdly, what are these questions about?
Moustafa
Well, ignoring your first two questions, the questions are about Heart Points and your thoughts on them.
Tutankoopa
...Must I partake in this survey?
Moustafa
I'd prefer if you did.
Tutankoopa
Fine! What are these questions you have?
Moustafa
What’s your Max HP level?
Tutankoopa
30 HP, I’m quite tough.
Moustafa
I’ve seen better. Anyway, what’s your thoughts on HP upgrades?
Tutankoopa
They’re quite useful, I’ve been meaning to get my hands on them.
Moustafa
I see, last one: What do you think of Badges?
Tutankoopa
They have good power, maybe one day I’ll destroy Mario with them!
Tutankoopa's "destroy Mario" comment echoes through Dry Dry Ruins, and out to the sands, where Mario is standing motionless, next to Luigi.
*echos* destroy Mario!
PaperMario
*frowns intensely*
PaperLuigi
Mario, what’s with all the frowning?
Moustafa
Ok! Well that is all, I best be on my way then.
Chomp
*BARK* *BARK* *BARK*
Tutankoopa
Chomp, would like to answer too?
Moustafa
Are you serio- Whatever.

Chain Chomp

Moustafa
Okay, what’s your max HP?
Chomp
*Bark*
Tutankoopa
It's 4 HP.
Moustafa
Does he like HP upgrades and Badges?
Tutankoopa
I assume he doesn’t care and can go for a treat right now.
Moustafa
Right, well I’m gonna go now.
Moustafa leaves Dry Dry Ruins.
Chomp
*growling at Tutankoopa*
Tutankoopa
U-uh, C-Ch-Chain Chomp, buddy?
Chomp
*BARK* *BARK* *BARK*
Tutankoopa
GAAAAH! NOT AGAIN!
The Chain Chomp chases after Tutankoopa.

Back at Dry Dry Outpost

Moustafa arrives back home.
Moustafa
Phew, that was exhausting.
KoopaArchaeologist
Welcome back, sir!
Nomadimouse
How’d it go?
Dryite
Hopefully well, I assume?
Moustafa
Not smoothly, that's for sure.
Nomadimouse
Heh heh, who’d you encounter?
Moustafa
A Bandit, a Buzzy Beetle, a Pokey also remind me to never go near a Pokey again, a Swooper, and Tutankoopa alongside his pet Chomp.
KoopaArchaeologist
Well, how’s the surveys?
Moustafa
They’re... fine? For the most part, I kinda forged some answers, but who’ll care right?
KoopaArchaeologist
I suppose that's true, that is if Princess Peach doesn't figure it out sooner or later.
Moustafa
Good thing I got it over with today, now I can relax.
Nomadimouse
How do you think the others are doing?
KoopaArchaeologist
Just fine I predict, what do you think, Moustafa?
Moustafa can be seen snoring loudly and comfortably on the ground, fast asleep.
KoopaArchaeologist
Well, I guess that was his day. Sigh... Have a nice nap, Moustafa.
END OF CHAPTER
Moustafa has now completed the survey at the end of the day and is now fast asleep. He will probably be asleep for the next two days, give or take! Hopefully he doesn’t forget the survey, but knowing his stealthy self, he’ll submit it ASAP. Will Herbert be able to complete the survey, or will he disappoint?

Chapter 3: N64 Herbert Land

Written by 4DJumpman256.

Boo’s Mansion

Herbert
I'm a ghost named Herbert. Isn't that a great name?
Herbert
Today, I was given a very special mission by none other than Princess Peach herself.
Herbert
Survey Forever Forest, Gusty Gulch, and its surrounding areas to find out what the people here think of Heart Points.
Herbert
LadyBow
LadyBow
Yes, Herbert. I was there.
LadyBow
Do you need something from me?
Herbert
Well, you see, it says here that I’m supposed to interview Tubba Blubba.
LadyBow
LadyBow
…Go on.
Herbert
Could you maybe… Get some other ghosts to come with me?
LadyBow
*sigh* There’s nothing to be afraid of, Herbert. Tubba Blubba swore off of eating ghosts, remember?
Herbert
Yes! And in return, we promised not to scare him anymore. I was just worried I would accidentally scare him.
LadyBow
You want to bring a big group of ghosts with you… So that you’ll be less likely to scare him…
Herbert
OK, fair point. I still really wouldn’t want to scare him though, honest!
LadyBow
Then you’re lucky I’m not the one Peach asked to interview him! His stubble-covered heart would jump right back out of his chest if I showed up!
LadyBow
Gwaah ha ha!
Herbert
We’ve been able to keep peace with Tubba Blubba since Mario defeated him. I don’t want to be the one to mess that up.
LadyBow
You’re not going to mess it up.
Herbert
But If I have other people there, they might be able to save the situation if I do. It would…
LadyBow
Look, Herbert. We’re scary. It’s in our nature. But not all of us are THAT scary. You’re too nice to be THAT scary.
Herbert
Hey, what?! I can be scary.
LadyBow
Yes. You could scare people if you wanted to, but you’re charming by nature. That’s why we all love you so much. You’re dark and depressing as a Boo should be, but you put people at ease too.
Herbert
I do?
LadyBow
Listen to me, Herbert. You’re the perfect Boo for this job.
Herbert
Gee, shucks. Thanks, Lady Bow. I’m going to be a great interviewer!
LadyBow
Darn right you are. The greatest!

Gusty Gulch

Herbert floats over to an unassuming green rock.
Herbert
BOOOO!
HyperCleft
GAH!
Herbert
Yeah, I can be scary.
HyperCleft
What gives, man?
Herbert
Can you answer some questions for me?
HyperCleft
Y-yeah?
Herbert
Let’s see, first question on the list here, what’s your HP?
HyperCleft
4 HP…what are you askin’ me these questions for?
Herbert
Oh yeah. It’s a survey the princess is doing. I’ve got to ask all the enemies here for their thoughts on HP.
HyperCleft
Oh, ok. Keep going then.
Herbert
What do you think of HP upgrades?
HyperCleft
I don’t see the point of ‘em. Nothing gets through my rock-hard defenses enough for me to need more HP.
HyperCleft
Though come to think of it, I’ve seen some of the Goombas here break rocks with their headbonks.
HyperCleft
Eh, I’ve got spikes, I’d be fine. How many more questions you got?
Herbert
Just one. What do you think of badges?
HyperCleft
Never heard of ‘em.
Herbert
Oh wow, really?
HyperGoomba
Hey you, Boo! What’re ya doin’ on our turf?
HyperParagoomba
Hey yeah. If I didn’t know any better, I’d slap ya with a charged-up headbonk right now!
HyperParagoomba
It’s too bad I know better. That’ll go right through a ghost like you.
Herbert
I don’t want any trouble. I’m here to do a survey for the Princess.
HyperGoomba
The princess? Is this guy for real?
HyperParagoomba
Better not take any chances.
HyperGoomba
Fine, you’re right. What kinda questions do ya got for us, dust cloud?
HyperParagoomba
Heh. Dust cloud.
Herbert
Most of them are about HP. Like… What’s your HP?
HyperGoomba
7 each.
Herbert
And then… What do you think of HP upgrades?
HyperGoomba
Funny you would mention that. Hey Jesse, tell me how strong the charged attacks are, from us Hyper Goombas?
HyperParagoomba
8 HP’s worth of damage.
HyperGoomba
Would ya look at that?
HyperParagoomba
Gettin’ in fights around here is no fun at all. I’d kill for some extra HP.
Herbert
Have you tried using badges? Do you think they’d help your fighting ability at all?
HyperGoomba
Badges?
HyperParagoomba
I hear they’ve got some badges these days that let people charge up their attacks like we do.
HyperGoomba
Reeeally? Well, isn’t that crazy.
Herbert
Thanks for answering my questions. Bye!
HyperGoomba
He just up and left like that.
Herbert comes up to Tubba Blubba’s Castle, then pauses to think. He looks towards the Forever Forest behind him, then back at the castle, and then at the forest again.
Herbert
Dark and scary forest. It’s not even a question.

Forever Forest

Herbert floats into the Forever Forest, greeted at the entrance by a green Fuzzy.
Herbert
I love dark and scary things!
ForestFuzzy
Meeeo-ho-hork! Vhat brings you to zis spooky forest?
Herbert
The princess asked me to interview all the creatures of this land.
Herbert
Speaking of which, you’re a Forest Fuzzy, aren’t you? Would you mind if I asked you a few questions for an interview?
ForestFuzzy
Be my guest, meeeork!
Herbert
Great! First of all, what’s your max HP?
ForestFuzzy
6 HP. I try to keep it topped off vhenever I can.
Herbert
Second of all, what do you think of HP upgrades?
ForestFuzzy
I don’t know…
The Forest Fuzzy splits into two copies of itself.
ForestFuzzy
Vhat do you think of HP upgrades?
ForestFuzzy
More HP means more HP to suck! Meo-ho-hork!
Herbert
Ooh, impressive party trick.
Herbert
Last question, what are your thoughts on Badges?
Each Forest Fuzzy splits again, creating four copies in total.
ForestFuzzy
Zey are quite the vexing tactic.
ForestFuzzy
Vee would love to harness it for ourselves.
ForestFuzzy
Zee only problem now is having to share betveen us!
ForestFuzzy
Meork! I really must quit dividing so hastily.
Herbert
Maybe. It was pretty cool though.
ForestFuzzy
Thanks!
ForestFuzzy
Thanks!
ForestFuzzy
Thanks!
ForestFuzzy
Thanks!
Herbert
No problem. I’ll see you around.
Herbert
Oh, look. There’s two Bzzap!s there. They have one of the most dangerous and deadly stings out there.
Herbert
It’s a good thing I’m an intangible ghost! Hey, Bzzaps!
Bzzap
WHAT DO YOU WANT?!!!
Herbert
Can I interview you for a survey about HP?
Bzzap
Should we do that?!
Bzzap
YES! I WANT MY OPINIONS TO BEE HEARD!!!
Bzzap
Fine!
Herbert
Awesome. Firstly, what’s your max HP?
Bzzap
Just three! It sucks!!!
Bzzap
GLASS CANNONS, BABY!!!
Herbert
I’m so sorry. I imagine you’d be a real fan of HP upgrades then?
Bzzap
I don’t need them! My stings do 6 damage! Who needs HP upgrades when you can just win?!
Bzzap
WRONG!!! I WOULD BEE UNSTOPPABLE!!!
Herbert
What do you think of Badges?
Bzzap
Not a fan! We’d like them way better if there was a hexagon one!
Bzzap
I LOVE HEXAGONS!!!!!!
Herbert
Is there really not a single hexagon one?
Bzzap
There is not! We looked!
Bzzap
BUT NOT VERY THOROUGHLY!!!
Herbert
Thank you for your time. I’ll let you get back to pollinating flowers. I’m sure it’s a busy job.
Bzzap
Yeah, it is! So thanks!
Bzzap
IT’S CHALLENGING BUT REWARDING WORK!!!
Herbert
From the looks of this list, I’ve got a flower of my own to check out next.
Herbert sees a Piranha Plant on the forest floor, and flies down next to it.
Herbert
Hello sir. Could you spare a moment of your time to answer a few questions about HP?
The Piranha Plant chomps at Herbert, swallowing him in one gulp. Herbert, however, simply phases through the plant and appears right back outside of it.
Herbert
Ha! Silly plant, don’t you know? You can’t eat ghosts!
Herbert
Wait a minute…
Herbert disappears.

Tubba Blubba’s Castle

Herbert
Hey, Tubba Blubba? How were you able to eat me that one time? I thought you couldn’t eat ghosts.
TubbaBlubba
WAUGHH!! Don’t sneak up behind me like that!
Herbert
Oh! I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to, I promise!
Herbert
Agh, I was hoping I wouldn’t…
TubbaBlubba
Okay. You seem like you really didn’t mean to. But then what did you come here for if you weren’t trying to scare me?
Herbert
I had a question to ask. Oh actually, come to think of it, I had a few questions to ask. Would you mind if I interviewed you?
TubbaBlubba
Sure, I don’t see why not.
Herbert
First, how much HP do you have?
TubbaBlubba
Just 10 HP.
Herbert
Really? What would you think of upgrading it, if you had the chance?
TubbaBlubba
I don’t wanna have to fight anyone ever again. But if I were able to upgrade anything, I would take HP in a heartbeat. I don’t need strength to attack with, I’d like it better if I was just as tough as I need to be to take a hit and get away.
Herbert
If you ever wanna swap those stats around, my buddy’s friend knows a guy.
TubbaBlubba
No thanks, sounds scary.
Herbert
(shrugs) I won’t say it’s not.
Herbert
Since you don’t care about strengths other than HP, I imagine you’re not much of a badge buff these days?
TubbaBlubba
Back when I thought I wanted to be strong, I had this one I really liked. It made my attacks extra-incredibly strong when I got really hurt.
Herbert
May the Bzzap!s never find out about that one.
TubbaBlubba
It was great for defending myself, but being in situations where I had to use it was really scary. I don’t need it anymore, I’d rather spend my savings on more security drones.
Herbert
Huh, wow. That’s not what I expected. I guess you really are back to your sensitive old self.
TubbaBlubba
Yeah…
Herbert
Nothing wrong with that though. Being big and scary is overrated.
TubbaBlubba
But you’re a ghost. Don’t you have to be scary?
Herbert
Yes, and I want to be, but I don’t need to be scary all the time.
TubbaBlubba
Huh. I’m glad to hear that. A ghost not being scary is a weird thought.
Herbert
True, but it’s not like we Boos scare each other 24/7.
TubbaBlubba
I guess so… Did you have any more questions for me?
Herbert
Not for the survey, but I was still wondering about how you managed to eat us ghosts.
TubbaBlubba
Oh yeah. Bowser did that with his Star Rod magic. It was a part of his wish to make me invincible. I can’t do it anymore, see? Aah.
Herbert flies into Tubba Blubba’s open mouth, and phases back out through his stomach.
Herbert
Wow, you’re right. Love what you’ve done with the place, by the way.
TubbaBlubba
Thanks! I’ve been eating more vegetables.
Herbert
Is the heart new?
TubbaBlubba
Yeah, it wasn’t there last time.
Herbert
Gotcha.
Herbert
This might be a weird question, but could I interview your heart?
TubbaBlubba
What?
Herbert
Yeah, I’m confused too, but it’s one of the interviewees on the list that the Princess gave me.
TubbaBlubba
Huh. Go for it, then. Aah.
Tubba Blubba opens his mouth, and Herbert flies in once more.
Herbert
Hey, Tubba’s Heart! How much HP do you have?
TubbaBlubbaHeart
Hello Herbert. I have 50 HP.
Herbert
Really? More than Tubba himself?
TubbaBlubbaHeart
Unlike him, I’m 100% heart! Gotta have that extra vitality when you’re the core organ of life.
Herbert
That makes sense. What do you think of HP upgrades?
TubbaBlubbaHeart
Given that I am a heart, I can’t get enough of them!
Herbert
I should have figured. What do you think of badges?
TubbaBlubbaHeart
Same sentiment as the rest of me. Having more badge points means having less heart points, so why bother?
Herbert
That’s true. Thanks for the interview. Keep on beating!
Herbert phases through Tubba Blubba’s stomach.
TubbaBlubba
What took you so long?! I thought I had actually eaten you again!
Herbert
Oh, ha. Sorry, didn’t mean to scare you like that.
TubbaBlubba
I guess it’s just part of your nature.
Herbert
Haha, I guess it is! Well, I’ll get out of your hair now. I wouldn’t want to keep giving you heart attacks.
TubbaBlubbaHeart
Right. I’m a pacifist too, I don’t need to learn any attacks.
TubbaBlubba
Wait! Why don’t you stay awhile? I just finished fixing my castle’s foyer bridge, but I haven’t had anyone to show it to yet.
Herbert
Sure! I’d be interested to see the rest of your castle too. Did you know it used to belong to my ancestors?
TubbaBlubba
Really? Your ancestors had good taste in house design.
Herbert
Everything here is so dark and depressing. It’s truly perfect!
Herbert and Tubba Blubba continued to talk about the castle, touring the rooms and talking about its history.
TubbaBlubba
…and the guest bedroom even has a secret closest behind the bed! It’s where I originally found that super strong badge, but now I just use it to stash candy.
Herbert
Oh right, I think my great uncle told me about that. He said his grandparents hid it to stop people from risking their lives to unlock its power.
TubbaBlubba
Huh. They did a pretty good job then. I lived here for years before I found it.
Herbert
Hey, look. It’s almost sundown already.
TubbaBlubba
Wow. It is.
Herbert
I should get going, I wouldn’t want to miss my dinner. Thanks for chatting with me, Tubba!
TubbaBlubba
Bye, Herbert! Come back soon.
END OF CHAPTE-
Herbert
WAIT!
Herbert
I forgot to interview a Clubba. Uhhh…
Herbert flies up to a napping Clubba by the entrance, and takes a deep inhale.
Herbert
Hey Clubba what’s your HP what’s your opinion on HP upgrades do you like badges?
Clubba
…………mmm………………8……………………I…dunno…………………………yeah………
Herbert
Thank you, bye, sweet dreams!
END OF CHAPTER
This Clubba did have sweet dreams indeed. He dreams of an old businessman, a politician, giving a speech about economics and healthcare.

Chapter 4: I Have No Breath and I Must Whistle

Written by ProblematicPeriwinklePlum.

An Average Day for Yellow Conductor Toad

The scene is established inside of Shy Guy's Toy Box. Inside, a Yellow Toad, who also happened to be a conductor, who also has the responsibility of operating the train, can be seen standing at a train station, looking exceptionally bored.
YellowConductor
Ah... What a nice day in Shy Guy's Toy Box. There are blocks, a train, some Shy Guys, a dark room, more Shy Guys...
The Yellow Toad Conductor makes a sudden realization.
YellowConductor
Wait a minute... How has Mario, the Shy Guys, and everyone else able to have gone in and out of here at will? Why am I still here? Just to suffer? What is the point of me being here anymore!?
The Yellow Toad Conductor becomes red in the face with anger and realisation.
YellowConductor
I have been exploited, pushed around, and have my autonomy stripped away from me... For a person I don't even like, let alone know!?
The Yellow Toad Conductor hops on the toy train that Mario had placed inside.
YellowConductor
I'm taking charge now! The Shy Guy Tyranny ends NOW!
The Yellow Toad Conductor fiercely stood in place while the train made squeaking noises.
YellowConductor
Next stop: The Pink Station! For FREEDOM!
The toy train continues to pump itself and make odd noises.

DAY 1

The Yellow Toad Conductor rides his way to the Pink Station and disboards himself.
YellowConductor
PinkConductor
What do you want?
YellowConductor
I want to start a revolution, so us Toads can finally leave the nightmare of Shy Guy's Toy Box!
PinkConductor
But who will run the train?
YellowConductor
That's the fun part; nobody.
PinkConductor
Don't you think that's a bit extreme!?
YellowConductor
The last time that I've checked, it's only natural instinct to want to explore and see the outside world.
PinkConductor
Well, I don't.
YellowConductor
Why not? Out there, you can do whatever you want!
PinkConductor
But my place is here; I get to help serve anybody who stops by this station. It may seem trivial to you, but I am fine with who I already am.
YellowConductor
Let me ask you this: Do any of the Shy Guys ever need your help?
PinkConductor
Well, I wouldn't say so... They often just gallavant off with no care in the world. I really have no idea what they do to exact. Ever since General Guy was miserably usurped in power by Mario, things have been pretty ho-hum here.
YellowConductor
Do any of the other conductors here even want to leave?
PinkConductor
How should I know? It's my job to be at the Pink Station. I have never went to the Blue Station, Green Station, or Red Station myself. But I did hear rumors that the Blue Conductor left us.
YellowConductor
WHAT? And you drop this absolute bombshell of info on me right now!?
PinkConductor
You're the one who spends most of your time around the Blue Station anyway. Surely you would at least think to engage with a conversation with thw Blue Conductor at one point, no?
YellowConductor
No, he's pretty boring all things considered. Just likes to talk about things like the Shy Guys and what they steal...
Another realization comes to the Yellow Toad Conductor's mind.
YellowConductor
Of course! He was the only Toad Conductor who was the most aware and knowledgeable of the oustide world!
PinkConductor
See? As little as I actually interact with the other station agents, I would know he often analyzed what the Shy Guys actually brought in and out of here.
YellowConductor
Hold that thought, I will go back to the Blue Station to see if he's still there.
PinkConductor
Good luck.
The Yellow Toad Conductor hops into the train and heads back to the Blue Station.
YellowConductor
Now, where is that Blue Conductor...?
The train arrives at the Blue Station.
WhiteConductor
Hello there!
The Yellow Toad Conductor is surprised to see the White Toad Conductor instead of the Blue Toad Conductor.
YellowConductor
What are you doing here!?
WhiteConductor
Didn't he tell you? The Blue Toad Conductor wanted to drive an actual train, so I agreed to swap jobs with him for a week. He gets to work the steam engine to Mt. Rugged, while I work here in Shy Guy's Toy Box. Neat, huh?
YellowConductor
It would have been neat if he actually told me! Urrrggh!
WhiteConductor
Oh, I guess he didn't tell you then. Sorry to break the news to you this way then.
YellowConductor
No, no... It's my fault for not talking to him. Anyways, what is the outside world even like?
WhiteConductor
I mean, I'm used to it, so trying to say anything particularly spectacular for me would be difficult, but...
YellowConductor
Go on.
WhiteConductor
There are um... trees! Lots of them. They're tall and they're made of wood and have leaves on them. There's also grass, which are kind of like trees except are not made of wood and have lots of umm... "Leaves", and you can step on it. There's also the sky! It's blue and you can look at it, alongside clouds that float in the sky. Of course, you can't even see or have any of this without the sun, which makes the light and was pretty much responsible for a good chunk of the places we stand upon and take for granted. Looking at it directly also hurts a lot. Pretty amazing stuff, right?
YellowConductor
Those are 3 minutes of my life that I will never get back. Anyways, that sounds much better than this stupid, infantile hellscape. Now how do I get out of here?
WhiteConductor
I do, in fact! Do you see that yellow trampoline with a star on it over there?
YellowConductor
Sort of. Never thought much about it, it was always just there. I thought Shy Guys liked to mess with it or somerhing else dumb.
WhiteConductor
Well, I'd say don't judge a book by it's cover. According to the Blue Conductor, he regularly saw both Shy Guys and Mario use the trampoline to leave the Toy Box. And they returned on multiple occasions as well. Do you know what that means?
YellowConductor
...That it's our ticket for all us mistreated Toads to get out of here!?
WhiteConductor
Well, yes.
YellowConductor
Awesome! I wanna use it and get the heck out of here!
The Yellow Toad Conductor begins to rush over to the trampoline, only to be stopped by an Anti Guy.
AntiGuy
What do you think you're trying to do?
YellowConductor
Ummm... Escape.
AntiGuy
Well, I for one cannot allow that to happen! This trampoline in particlar is incredibly important for Shy Guy intelligence and wartime strategies, so we need this trampoline for a variety of purposes. In fact, I'm about to haul it away and back to General Guy.
YellowConductor
Wait, stop! I wanna get out of here!
AntiGuy
Then who would even be our default train driver anymore?
YellowConductor
...I don't know.
AntiGuy
Well then, I'm sorry but I will have to take this away.
The Anti Guy lifts up the trampoline by himself and begins to carry it away, much to the displeasure of the Yellow Toad Guard.
AntiGuy
Don't even try bothering to hurt me, I can easily whoop you and I will absolutely not hesitate to knock you senseless.
YellowConductor
You... Cruel bastard!
AntiGuy
I'm a lot of things, and that's one of them. Ciao!
The Anti Guy walks away, carrying the exit trampoline with him while the Yellow Toad Conductor is visibly upset.
YellowConductor
...That was my escape... And it was SNATCHED FROM ME!!!
WhiteConductor
Yellow Toad Conductor, please calm down. I'm sure there will be another way that we can both use to leave.
YellowConductor
There better be! I'm not ready to have my heart played with like that ever again. At all.
WhiteConductor
That reminds me of a story. Have you ever heard of the Toad Engineer?
YellowConductor
No...?
WhiteConductor
Well, the Toad Engineer is a legendary train driver. He's most likely real, and he's been able to do extraordinary rail-related feats, such as stopping runaway trains, pushing forward with heavy loads that would otherwise cause a boiler explosion but passes through, among other things. They say in the event that a fellow railroad worker is in need of assistance, he will appear and somehow make everything right.
YellowConductor
That sounds ridiculous. There's no way he could just... Appear here.
WhiteConductor
That's the element of surprise for you.
YellowConductor
Urrgggh... Stupid trains. Why am I even a conductor!?

DAY 2

The scene cuts to the Yellow Taod Conductor and the White Toad Conductor on the train.
WhiteConductor
Where in the world are we even going!?
YellowConductor
To the Pink Station, of course! Where else?
The train arrives at the Pink Station.
WhiteConductor
Oh, wow. It sure is green.
YellowConductor
Pink Toad Conductor! It's time for freedom!
PinkConductor
For the last time, Yellow Toad Conductor, I'm fine with who I am!
YellowConductor
But don't you want to go out there, and operate a REAL railroad with REAL trains?
PinkConductor
Sounds tempting, but how do you even have a way to get out of here?
YellowConductor
Well, there used to be a trampoline to get out of Shy Guy's Toy Box, but then an Anti Guy took it to General Guy, so...
PinkConductor
...There's no way out anymore. If you know it exists, why don't you go get the Anti Guy to put it back?
YellowConductor
That would be impossible without getting killed in the process; everyone around here knows that Anti Guys are one of General Guy's strongest followers.
PinkConductor
Strong as in loyal, or strong as in strength?
YellowConductor
That's the scary part: it's both. Do you not know the variety of Shy Guys here?
PinkConductor
Well, there's the ordinary Shy Guy, General Guy, Groove Guys, you just told me about Anti Guy, I also vaguely remember the Gourmet Guy... I think there's one with balloons?
YellowConductor
PinkConductor
Umm... Are you sure there's that many?
YellowConductor
Of course!
PinkConductor
Oh.
YellowConductor
Do you... Even leave your post?
PinkConductor
Nope! I'm just standing here, waiting for my directives. All day and night, not a stop on the clock.
YellowConductor
Well, I guess that explains how annoyingly naiive you are.
PinkConductor
Hey, that's not a very nice thing to say now, is it?
YellowConductor
Nope, not really.
The Yellow Toad Conductor grabs the Pink Toad Conductor by his arm and drags him to the train.
PinkConductor
Hey! What are you doing to me!? Let me go now!
YellowConductor
I'm opening your world up, of course. Now comply if you will, or this'll be much more harder than it actually needs to be.
The Yellow Toad Conductor and the Pink Toad Conductor step on the Pink Station's platform and onto the train.
YellowConductor
Hey, White Toad Conductor, hop on. You've been unusually quiet.
WhiteConductor
Okay, and that's because I didn't want to interrupt you, per se.
The White Toad Conductor hops onto the train.
PinkConductor
Where are we even going?
YellowConductor
To the Green Station, of course. Where else?
PinkConductor
I dunno, just asking.
YellowConductor
...Okay then. Away we go!
The train starts, but at a much slower rate than usual.
YellowConductor
Huh? What's going on?
WhiteConductor
We're over the loading capacity. Normally, we can have up to two Toads on board, but there's three of us on board.
YellowConductor
What? Aggh, now I just remembered. No wonder why Mario put his weirdo friends away when he went on board.
PinkConductor
You know, if you guys want to leave and go to the Green Station via train, I could just...
The Pink Toad Conductor tries to step off the train while it is moving, but the White Toad Conductor grabs him and pulls him back.
WhiteConductor
Don't do that! If you step off now off the platform, you could get caught under the train and your games will be over.
PinkConductor
Then why did I get dragged onto this!?
WhiteConductor
Don't look at me, look at him.
The White Toad Conductor points at the Yellow Toad Conductor, facepalming and sulking.
PinkConductor
How much longer until we're at the Green Station, anyways?
WhiteConductor
About... 7 to 8 hours, give or take.
PinkConductor
Greeaaaaaat. There goes my afternoon.
The train continues to crawl at an incredibly slow pace, peaking at 3 miles per hour. The Green, Yellow, and White Toad Conductors on board look bored.

DAY 3

The train slowly crawls to the Green Station's platform. The Green Toad Conductor notices the train with the Green, Yellow, and White Toad Conductors on board.
GreenConductor
Oh, hi there! What are you all doing here?
YellowConductor
We're trying to gather all of the Toad Conductors of Shy Guy's Toy Box to get them all out of here and have a taste of freedom!
PinkConductor
Yay, I guess.
GreenConductor
Oh, how exciting! Too bad you're only 50 feet away from the platform.
WhiteConductor
We know. It took us 8 hours to get here with this speed. We all slept through it.
GreenConductor
How intriguing! Well, you should almost be at the platform to get off.
5 minutes later...
GreenConductor
Any second now.
5 more minutes later...
GreenConductor
So close...
Another 5 minutes later...
GreenConductor
And... Stop.
The Yellow Toad Conductor pulls the control lever, stopping the train at the platform of the Green Station.
YellowConductor
We're finally here.
PinkConductor
Wow, such a brilliant plan you had. Thanks to you, I lost 8 hours of my life.
The Yellow, Green, and White Toad Conductors hop off the train.
WhiteConductor
So... This is the Green Station?
GreenConductor
I don't recognize you. Did they add a White Station?
WhiteConductor
No, I'm from Toad Town. I usually run the train from southern Toad Town to Mt. Rugged, but the Blue Toad Conductor wanted to try running a real train, so we swapped jobs.
GreenConductor
Oh. Glad to have you around here, though!
YellowConductor
Enough chitchat. Green Toad Conductor, are you tired of just standing here all day u til you're supposed to ferry somebody with a train?
GreenConductor
Kind of? I've always wanted to do something new, but I'm too lazy to just quit my job. There aren't exactly any spare Toads around here.
YellowConductor
Then let's make ourselves useful and get out of here!
GreenConductor
How are 'we' going to escape, exactly?
YellowConductor
We retrieve the exit trampoline from General Guy.
GreenConductor
But how are we gonna get it from General Guy?
The murmoring of Shy Guys can be heard. A Shy Guy carrying two traffic control lights approaches the four Toad Conductors.
TrafficControlGuy
Move aside! Make way for General Guy!
YellowConductor
Who are you talking to?
TrafficControlGuy
All of you. You're in the way! Move aside or you may get hurt.
WhiteConductor
Okay.
The four Toad Conductors all step off the platform and move to a fence next to the rails. Soon after, an army of Shy Guys march out of a pathway next to the Green Station, followed by a pink plastic "tank" rolling along. Out of the top of the plastic tank, General Guy pops out.
GeneralGuy
Alright, alright! Stay clear all of you!
ShySquad
Yes sir!
General Guy grabs a megaphone and talks into it.
GeneralGuy
This is General Guy speaking! I want all Spy Guys and Sky Guys to approach the train tracks in the way, and rip them up so we have a clear path. This includes any debris that would be present by quick removal. Quickly!
All of the Spy Guys and Sky Guys in the parade move forward and head towards the rails to the right of the Green Station that connect it directly to the Red Station.
SpyGuy
We'll take apart the fence and rails. Sky Guys, lift away the supplies to go... Elsewhere, I don't think it matters.
SkyGuy
We can do it!
The Spy Guys begin to take apart the fence.
PinkConductor
What on earth are you Shy Guys doing!?
SpyGuy
Our jobs.
WhiteConductor
And you HAVE to take apart the train tracks too!?
SpyGuy
We won't hesitate to arrest you and your accomplices for treason if you try to stop us!
YellowConductor
So what?
SkyGuy
I'd keep your mouth shut if I were you. The best that could happen is that General Guy will send you to Lavalava Island for exile, and the worst is just being executed. You can avoid both if you just keep quiet and comply.
YellowConductor
And this is what I think of your stupid ruler and this stupid land!
The Yellow Toad Conductor charges towards a Spy Guy and punches him in the mask, knocking him down.
YellowConductor
I could do this all day.
GreenConductor
Yellow Toad Conductor, no!
A group of Medi Guys fly away to the Green Station.
GeneralGuy
Pyro Guys and Shy Guys, you are all set to go attack the others.
ShyGuy
We won't disappoint!
Shy Guys and Pyro Guys storm out.
GreenConductor
Woah! What's happening!?
SpyGuy
Green Toad Conductor, Yellow Toad Conductor, Pink Toad Conductor, and the other one; you are all under arrest for treason.
Various Shy Guys grab the arms of the Toad Conductors for restraint.
YellowConductor
Hey! What are you doing with us!?
SpyGuy
To the dungeon, you treacherous scum.
MediGuy
Don't worry, we can take 'em from here.
ShyGuy
Load 'em up!
Each of the Conductor Toads are forcefully placed into each Medi Guy's hovercrafts and strapped down.
The Medi Guys drop the four Toad Conductors into the prison yard from a high height, being temporarily immobilized by the impact.
WhiteConductor
Ow...
ShyStack
You four, come with us.
The Toads are restrainted by generic Shy Guys and the Shy Stack peads them inside the prison.
PinkConductor
I don't want to die...
YellowConductor
Where are my rights!? I have a right to a fair trial!
ShyStack
Silence!
The Toads are all thrown in a spacious, yet otherwise empty cell with a few other prisoners already inside.
ShyStack
We will deal with you later. In the meantime, we are supposed to attend to General Guy's big parade.
The Shy Stack and the Shy Guy cohorts walk off, slamming the doors behind them.
WhiteConductor
Why am I here? I'm not a criminal.

???
Neither are we.
Behind the four Toad Conductors stood the Red Toad Conductor, Gourmet Guy, a Groove Guy, and a Dark Koopa.
RedConductor
I assume you guys all had the same fate as I did?
GreenConductor
We really can't know unless you say what happened to you specifically.
RedConductor
General Guy was planning a parade for some reason. What reason? Beats me. Regardless, I was just standing there as usual. I then heard a bunch of Shy Guys making Shy Guy noises, then suddenly a bunch of Spy Guys and Anti Guys began tearing down the Red Station! I tried to fight back, but I was arrested.
PinkConductor
That was pretty similar to our situation.
DarkKoopa
Oh, story time is it? Well, I was arrested because I tripped a Shy Guy in the Toad Town Sewers. He then had his stupid friends drag me into Shy Guy's Toy Box where I was imprisoned and I'm also set to be tortured. It's been like this for months, though. Nobody has actually done anything with me and I just stand here most of the time.
GourmetGuy
I went to Bowser's Castle for some cake, and a nice lady cooked some cake up for me. General Guy soon found out that I had left, and ordered me to be arrested for leaving Shy Guy's Toy Box. I want to eat his personal rations for revenge!
GrooveGuy
Ohohoho! I once decided to dance for General Guy, and he hated my moves. During my dance, I accidentally bumped into him, and I'm going to be tried for assault, despite having no malicious intent whatsoever. What a fun game it is!
PinkConductor
You guys are weird.
DarkKoopa
Oh, weird... Am I? I can show you how 'weird' I am!
The Dark Koopa punches the Pink Toad Conductor in the face, rendering him unconscious.
DarkKoopa
There's more coming for all of ya, if you don't respect me!
WhiteConductor
O-okay...
GrooveGuy
What a violent spirit, you are! Ohohohoho!
DarkKoopa
Shut your mouth.
RedConductor
Ignore them. All they do is bicker.
YellowConductor
How are we gonna get out of here?
GourmetGuy
Who knows?
GrooveGuy
It's a mystery, hehehe... Heee!!!
GreenConductor
Regardless, I guess all we have each other to pass the time.
RedConductor
Fun.

DAY 4

Scene cuts to the prison cell once again.
GreenConductor
I wanna go home...
RedConductor
There's no home to go to. General Guy doesn't realise how fragile his empire actually is.
WhiteConductor
What do you mean?
RedConductor
He's knocking down walls and blocks whenever he pleases. Infrastructure went from decent to dangerous. He wants to do this parade to honor how awesome his is against his "victory" against Mario, despite losing terribly.
GourmetGuy
Ge started taking all the food too!
DarkKoopa
As if you need any more.
GrooveGuy
Ohohoho! How hilarous!
YellowConductor
I can't take this place anymore... It's driving me nuts.

DAY 5

the scene cuts to the prison cell once more.
PinkConductor
We've been here for 2 days yet nothing has happened. What on earth is going on out there?
DarkKoopa
I've been here for 3 months. Get on my level!
GreenConductor
I'd rather not.
GourmetGuy
I've been here for 2.
GrooveGuy
I can't even remember anymore. Hahahaha!
WhiteConductor
It's been w days now for me, the Pink Toad Conductor, the Yellow Toad Conductor, and the Green Toad Conductor.
RedConductor
It's only been 3 days for me.
YellowConductor
And it feels like FOREVER. When is something gonna happen to us?
A loud thud and crash in succession could be heard outside.
GourmetGuy
What was that?
DarkKoopa
Beats me.
RedConductor
Probably another structure being knocked down.
The ground shakes and more thuds and other destructive noises could be heard.
GreenConductor
Uhhh... Red Toad Conductor? Do you reckon that the thing being destroyed... IS THIS PRISON!?
RedConductor
No, not really... Wait a minute it makes too much sense. OH NO!
PinkConductor
WE'RE ALL GONNA DIE!
DarkKoopa
I embrace death. Nothing else that can put me out of my misery.
GrooveGuy
Ohohoho! A nihilist, much? Hehehe!
The noises get loudee and louder, with physicality and rumbling. Soon, a wall in the cell is knocked down, and light floods the room.
WhiteConductor
What... What happened? Are we still alive...?
RedConductor
Yes, we are! And it's a most beautiful sight. It's...
YellowConductor
It can't be...
GreenConductor
But it could!
PinkConductor
Oh wow... Do my eyes need to be checked, or is this for real?
The light balances out, revealing the figure to have broken down the prison cell walls being the Toad Engineer.
WhiteConductor
It's the Toad Engineer of legend!
YellowConductor
You were right, White Toad Conductor!
ToadEngineer
Howdy ho, boys. Let's get you back home.
The Toad Engineer grabs the five Toad Engineers, Gourmet Guy, the Groove Guy, and the Dark Koopa out from the prison.
END OF CHAPTER

EPILOGUE

After the disastrous parade by General Guy had resulted in the widespread destruction of his own empire, the Toad Engineer heard the cries of help and wanted to help his fellow railroad workers.
He hopped into Shy Guy's Toybox, and effortlessly defeated General Guy's troops. He then found the prison and freed it's prisoners, and gave all five Conductor Toads freedom by finding the stolen exit trampoline.
The Dark Koopa returned to the Toad Town Sewers, Gourmet Guy lives in Toad Town, and the Groove Guy decided to stay in Shy Guy's Toy Box anyways. The five Conductor Toads then decided to work on expanding the railway, where it now serves Gusty Gulch, Shiver City, and Flower Fields. They are all very happy with their new, Shy Guy-free lives. But how will Brown Yoshi fare out? Only time will tell...

Chapter 5: The Lavalava Drama

Written by ProblematicPeriwinklePlum.

Brown Yoshi's Arrival

Brown Yoshi can be seen on a kayak, rowing his way to Lavalava Island.
BrownYoshi
Hoping this task isn't all for naught.
Brown Yoshi rows his kayak to a sandy beach next to Yoshi Village, and ties a rope around it's hull, and puts a stake in the sand to keep it stationary. He then walks to Yoshi's Village.
BrownYoshi
Wondering what's changed. Probably not much.
Brown Yoshi walks into Yoshi Village. Near the Raven Statue, nearly every Yoshi on the island gathered around, chatting amongst themselves.
LightBlueYoshi
Oh my, what is that?
GreenYoshi
It looks scary...
YellowYoshi
I have no idea what I'm looking at.
RedYoshi
Be positive, I'm sure they'l be fine.
PurpleYoshi
This doesn't happen often...
BabyGreenYoshi
I wanna look!
BabyLightBlueYoshi
No, I do!
BabyYellowYoshi
Lemme see!
BabyRedYoshi
What's going on here?
BabyPurpleYoshi
We found a guy!
Brown Yoshi approaches the group of Yoshis, who had circled around something, or someone.
BrownYoshi
What's going on here?
YellowYoshi
I was looking around the beach, and I found this person washed up. They're unconscious, so we're just observing.
BrownYoshi
May I see?
YellowYoshi
Sure.
Yellow Yoshi stands aside to let Brown Yoshi through, revealing the washed up person to be a Beach Koopa.
BrownYoshi
Stand back, everyone. He's gonna be okay.
Brown Yoshi gets on his knees and begins to perform CPR on the Beach Koopa, compressing his chest and giving ventilation.
BabyRedYoshi
Haha! I knew Brown Yoshi liked other guys!
Soon after, the Beach Koopa regurgitates saltwatee and begins to breathe again.
BrownYoshi
Seems to have nearly drowned. Light Blue Yoshi and Purple Yoshi, take him to the Toad House.
LightBlueYoshi
Can do.
PurpleYoshi
Let's do it!
The Purple Yoshi and Light Blue Yoshi carefully lift up the Beach Koopa, and carry him to the Toad House.
BrownYoshi
That's strange, I can't remember the last time we've had someone wash ashore on Lavalava Island.
GreenYoshi
I think that was a Koopa Troopa? But I thought Koopa Troopas had shells to the best of my memory, not shirts.
BrownYoshi
He is, but he seems to have lost his shell. Koopa Troopas are able to remove their shells if they need to, but they use them for protection and rarely are seen without them. In this state, they are known as "Beach Koopas".
BabyPurpleYoshi
Wow, Brown Yoshi! You're so wise.
BabyYellowYoshi
I wanna grow up to be just like you.
BrownYoshi
Well, that's what you get when you grow up with the Village Leader as your best friend. Speaking of which, where is he? I need to talk to him.
RedYoshi
He's in Jade Jungle. Not sure why, he instructed us not to follow him.
BrownYoshi
I think I need to see him now.
RedYoshi
Are you sure? He seemed pretty adamant in his tone of voice when he told me so.
BrownYoshi
I've known him for a long time, I think I deserve to know what's going on with him.
Brown Yoshi walks into Jade Jungle.
RedYoshi
Be careful..!

Hurt Plant

Brown Yoshi can be seen walking across a bridge in Jade Jungle.
BrownYoshi
Now, where could the Village Leader be...?
Brown Yoshi nearly steps on a Hurt Plant, and it reacts.
HurtPlant
HISSSSSSSSSS!
BrownYoshi
Oh dear! I wasn't prepared for this.
HurtPlant
GRRRRRRRRRR...!
BrownYoshi
Wait a minute, I just remembered...!
Brown Yoshi pulls out the packet that Princess Peach had given him.
BrownYoshi
I could interview you! Now, let's see... What is your max HP?
HurtPlant
HISSSSS! HIIIIIIIIIISSSSSSSS!
Brown Yoshi writes down "*hissing noises*" as a response to the Max HP question in the survey packet.
BrownYoshi
Okay, well... How about your opinion on HP upgrades?
HurtPlant
HHHHHHHHHHIIIIIISSS!!!
BrownYoshi
Fascinating. Lastly, what is your opinion on Badges?
HurtPlant
HIIIIIISSSSSSSSSSSSSS!
BrownYoshi
Wow, fascinating.
Brown Yoshi puts his research packet away.
BrownYoshi
Nice to see you. Thanks for your answers.
HurtPlant
HISS! HISSS HISSSSSSSSSS!
Brown Yoshi walks away from the Hurt Plant, while ot attempts to lunge at Brown Yoshi to bit him, failing to do so.

Jungle Fuzzy

Brown Yoshi can still be seen walking through Jade Jungle.
BrownYoshi
Where in the world could the Village Leader even be? It's not like him to run off.
A Jungle Fuzzy leaps out of a bush.
JungleFuzzy
Bwehehehe! I spooked you.
BrownYoshi
I guess you did. Can I ask you a question?
JungleFuzzy
What kind of question?
BrownYoshi
What is your Max HP?
JungleFuzzy
7 HP! But if I feel like it, I could suck some of yours. Meeeeeooork!
BrownYoshi
What are your opinions on HP upgrades?
JungleFuzzy
The more the merrier! I'd love to suck up the HP of even more unsuspecting vitcims.
BrownYoshi
Okay. Now what are your opinions on Badges?
JungleFuzzy
Time's up! I get to suck the life from you now for annoying me.
BrownYoshiPanic
Oh crap.
Brown Yoshi runs through Jade Jungle with the Jungle Fuzzy chasing him along.
BrownYoshiPanic
Get away from me!
JungleFuzzy
If I feel like it.
The Jungle Fuzzy stops moving.
BrownYoshi
Phew.
Brown Yoshi slowly walks away from the Jungle Fuzzy. It does not follow him.

M. Bush

Brown Yoshi can be seen walking in Jade Jungle.
BrownYoshi
This is ridiculous. Ever since Sushie left to travel with Mario, it's been generally peaceful. And ever since Mario's journey came to an end, she came back; yet I hardly ever see her.
A purple Cheep Cheep could be seen in a lake.
BrownYoshi
Bingo.
Brown Yoshi takes a look at the Cheep Cheep in the lake.
BrownYoshi
Hello?
The purple Cheep Cheep leaps out of the lake, landing on a patch of grass in front of Brown Yoshi.
Sushie
Oh, hello there! What brings you here?
BrownYoshi
I could ask the same you you. Shouldn't you be babysitting the Fearsome 5?
Sushie
Well, they're getting older now and I've learned so much from Mario. In fact, I could do a lot of interesting things that I never knew I could do beforehand!
BrownYoshi
Like what?
Sushie
Do you see that bush over there?
Sushie points at a bush in the distance.
BrownYoshi
Yes, why?
Sushie
It's not just any bush, it's an M. Bush. These rascals once trapped one of the Fearsome 5 and Mario had to rescue him and take 'em out. It pretends to be a bush.
BrownYoshi
So, what are you going to do with it?
Sushie
This!
Sushie begins to charge in anticipation for a Tidal Wave.
MBush
!
Sushie afterwards lets herself go and preforms a Tidal Wave, which defeats the M. Bush with ease.
BrownYoshiPanic
Oh my! What was that!?
Sushie
That's Tidal Wave. On our travels, Mario decided to upgrade me to Ultra Rank, and that's how I learned to do it.
BrownYoshi
Umm... Okay, wow...
Sushie
It's super strong, too; as I've demonstrated.
BrownYoshiPanic
Now how am I supposed to document an M. Bush for a survey now?
Sushie
If it means anything, Goombario told me that it's Max HP is 8.
Brown Yoshi writes the info down.
BrownYoshi
Okay...
Sushie
Well, I'm off to continue being a stronger woman than I ever could before. Nice to see you again, though!
BrownYoshi
You too.
Brown Yoshi walks away.

Putrid Piranha

Brown Yoshi continues to walk through Jade Jungle.
BrownYoshi
I'm getting tired...
Brown Yoshi sits down and catches his breath.
BrownYoshi
I can't believe that the Village Leader would be gone for so long by now.
A Putrid Piranha pops up next to Brown Yoshi.
PutridPiranha
INTRUDER ALERT.
The Putrid Piranha attempts ro breathe on Brown Yoshi, but he dodges.
BrownYoshi
Hey! What's the big idea?
PutridPiranha
YOU ARE SITTING ON MY ROOT SYSTEM. I HATE THAT.
BrownYoshi
I could get up and move for you if that will make you happy.
PutridPiranha
THAT WILL BE ACCEPTABLE.
Brown Yoshi gets up and walks away from the Piranha Plant.
BrownYoshi
Is this fine?
PutridPiranha
YES.
BrownYoshi
Why do you always talk like that?
PutridPiranha
IT'S NOT MY FAULT. LAVA PIRANHA IS HARD OF HEARING AND I AM LOYAL TO LAVA PIRANHA.
BrownYoshi
Lava Piranha...?
PutridPiranha
YES. THE RULER OF MT. LAVALAVA.
BrownYoshi
Okay. Could I ask you a few more otherwise unrelated questions?
PutridPiranha
DON'T BOTHER ME ANY MORE, UNLESS YOU WANT A ONE WAY TICKET TO MT. LAVALAVA'S HOT HOT LAVA.
BrownYoshi
...Point taken.
Brown Yoshi slowly backs away.

Spear Guy

Brown Yoshi enters a thicket with a maze of shrubs and bushes.
BrownYoshi
Weird. This place looks... Familiar.
Brown Yoshi pushes past branches and bushes, until he reaches a clearing with two familiar figures present.
BrownYoshi
Village Leader, I've finally found you! ...And Raphael the Raven?
VillageLeader
Ah, Brown Yoshi! I'm so glad to see you here! What brings you here? Is something wrong in Yoshi's Village?
BrownYoshi
Not particularly. We found a washed up Beach Koopa. He's alive, but in critical condition. We let him inside the Toad House. I came here to tell you.
VillageLeader
I see. Anyways, Raphael. This is my good friend I've talked about in passing before, Brown Yoshi. Say hello, Raphael.
RaphaelTheRaven
Hello.
Raven
Caw!
BrownYoshiPanic
Village Leader, it's unlike you to walk off for extended periods of time. Is something wrong?
VillageLeader
Not particularly, but there is an issue that needed to be addressed.
RaphaelTheRaven
Some time ago, we built a zipline from the east of Yoshi's Village to Mt. Lavalava. However, it has come to my attention that it is being abused by unnecessarily curious Yoshis as well as Spear Guys.
Raven
Caw!
RaphaelTheRaven
Mario used it to get there, but he's since left and hasn't come back. We're planning taking it down as to not encourage the residents to venture into Mt. Lavalava.
VillageLeader
I am honestly all for taking it down.
BrownYoshi
I'm questioning why it hasn't been taken down sooner myself.
VillageLeader
I guess we didn't exactly think about the repurcussions.
Rustling could be heard in the background.
BrownYoshi
Do you guys hear something?
VillageLeader
Yeah...
Raven
Caw.
A Spear Guy leaps out of the bushes.
Raven
Caw!
SpearGuy
I come in peace!
VillageLeader
Really, now?
BrownYoshi
After all of this time harassing our kind, now you decide to speak?
SpearGuy
That's not me, there's lots of other Spear Guys who are just castaways from Shy Guy's Toy Box as exile, but I'm not here to talk about that, there something more pressing that needs to be told.
BrownYoshi
And why should we trust you?
RaphaelTheRaven
Settle down. Regardless of background, we should listen to him. Now, please say what you were going to say originally.
SpearGuy
Amongst us Spear Guys, we have noticed murmors among the Putrid Piranhas to release a devastating eruption of Mt. Lavalava. Why? We don't know. We tend to be more isolated so we don't usually try to make any allies, but in this case... It may be life or death.
VillageLeader
Sure, Mt. Lavalava briefly erupted after Mario defeated Lava Piranha; but the damage was minimal at best. Are you sure you're not blowing things out of proportion?
SpearGuy
I'm going out of the way to make contact with both you and Raphael the Raven. Don't you think that if I'm trying to serve as a messenger, that something's gone terribly wrong!?
RaphaelTheRaven
I believe he has a point.
BrownYoshi
...Okay. Fine. We believe you.
Brown Yoshi grabs the Village Leader's hand and walks out of the clearing.
VillageLeader
Where are we going?
BrownYoshi
To warn the others of course!
The Village Leader yanks his arm off the Brown Yoshi.
BrownYoshiPanic
What's the matter with you today? You've never acted this stubborn nor aggressive!
VillageLeader
I don't trust the Spear Guys.
BrownYoshiPanic
But we have to! Besides, I just remembered that I have to interview one!
Brown Yoshi grabs his packet and approaches the Spear Guy.
BrownYoshi
Well, Mr. Spear Guy... What is your-
The Village Leader pulls back Brown Yoshi.
BrownYoshi
What on earth is wrong with you.
VillageLeader
Give me the paper you're holding.
The Village Leader reads the paper, and his reaction as he reads it turns from intrigue, to shock, to disappointment, to anger.
VillageLeader
Brown Yoshi, you've been talking to the enemies? The enemies that you know very well have hurt me, you, and the other Yoshis!?
BrownYoshiPanic
But it's not what you think!
VillageLeader
What else is there to think about!? You were talking and interviewing enemies to... Get their opinions on HP? And presumably sharing intelligence to jeopardize Yoshi's Village?
BrownYoshiPanic
But...
VillageLeader
There are no buts. You may have been my best friend... But you're also my greatest enemy. You sicken me.
The Village Leader rips the packet into shreds and drops them to the ground. He walks off, abandoning Brown Yoshi and leaving him with Raphael the Raven and the Spear Guy.
BrownYoshiPanic
C-Chief...
RaphaelTheRaven
I'm very sorry about what just happened. I really don't know what came over him, he's such a calm and level headed figure that everyone admires...
SpearGuy
Am I really that bad?
BrownYoshiPanic
No, it's my fault. Me and the Village Leader were childhood friends. We once went into Jade Jungle together to play, and one day the Village Leader got attacked by Spear Guys. They alongside us Yoshis have been the inhabitants of Lavalava Island for many years after our ancestors from Yoshi's Island migrated here. Yoshis adapted into a more social lifestyle whereas the Shy Guys adapted into more nomadic, isolationist lifestyles and became Spear Guys, who were also seen on Yoshi's Island. Since then, the two groups have been at each other's throats, having numerous conflicts, destroyed villages, among other scuffles. I have always been there for the Village Leader, and we used to call each other "Chief" and "Leader", we were directionless without each other.
SpearGuy
This isn't your fault. The generations before us who had a sense of superiority and competition ingrained a vendetta between us Spear Guys and you Yoshis. Because we'd rather keep separate than work together, it lead to fear and hatred.
RaphaelTheRaven
He's right. I have overseen the peoples of Lavalava Island for a long time, and I think that a primal fear within the Village Leader was awoken.
BrownYoshi
No... I have to keep going. Are there any inhabitants of Mt. Lavalava?
SpearGuy
And have said inhabitants rescued?
RaphaelTheRaven
It's true, some species reside in Mt. Lavalava. To the best of my recollection, they are... Spike Tops, White Magikoopas, and Red Magikoopas. Apparently, all three of those were tasked by Bowser to stop Mario from retrieving a Star Spirit who was held captive by Lava Piranha.
BrownYoshi
But they were there when Mt. Lavalava erupted, right? Does that mean they were killed during the eruption?
RaphaelTheRaven
There's only one way to find out.
BrownYoshiPanic
Are you implying...?
RaphaelTheRaven
Yes, I think it would be important for someone to go into Mt. Lavalava and check for survivors.
SpearGuy
That's... Insane.
BrownYoshiPanic
Even I think that's unreasonable.
RaphaelTheRaven
Do you want dozens of potential lives to be lost?
BrownYoshiPanic
I suppose you have a point.
RaphaelTheRaven
That's a good thing you can do.
BrownYoshi
I'll... Think about it. For now, I need to get back to Yoshi's Village.
RaphaelTheRaven
Take care.
Raven
Caw, caw!
SpearGuy
Be brave.
Brown Yoshi walks away from the clearing, and makes his way back to Yoshi's Village.

Back at Yoshi's Village

Brown Yoshi walks back in Yoshi's Village.
YellowYoshi
Oh, Brown Yoshi! You're back! What took you so long? Why the long face?
Brown Yoshi considered for a moment.
BrownYoshiPanic
...Nothing. Where is the Village Leader?
YellowYoshi
He came back and went back to the Raven Statue he usually sits at. He claims that there is "nothing to worry about" when Red Yoshi asked what was wrong.
BrownYoshiPanic
Well... That's good to hear.
Brown Yoshi looks around.
BrownYoshiPanic
Where is Purple Yoshi? I need to talk to him.
YellowYoshi
He's in the Toad House tending to the stranded Koopa.
BrownYoshi
Thank You.
YellowYoshi
No problem.
Brown Yoshi walks into the Toad House. Inside, Purple Yoshi, the designated Toad, and the Beach Koopa. The Beach Koopa is in the bed, feeling better.
MaleToad
Oh, welcome! If you need rest, the bed is unfortunately in use.
BrownYoshi
I'm aware, don't worry. How's our fellow, erm... "visitor" doing?
BeachKoopa
I could be better... Thank you for saving me, I heard you were the one who restarted my breathing.
BrownYoshi
It's no problem. I'm glad to help a friend in need.
PurpleYoshi
You really are knowledgeable, Brown Yoshi.
BrownYoshi
Actually, Purple Yoshi; can I talk to you?
PurpleYoshi
Of course, that's waht friends are for! Now how can I help you?
BrownYoshiPanic
Actually, I think we need some privacy. Could you perhaps come out to somewhere more private to talk?
PurpleYoshi
No problem. Lead the way!

Mt. Lavalava

Brown Yoshi and Purple Yoshi leave the Toad House, and Brown Yoshi and Purple Yoshi walk east of Yoshi's Village, next to the zipline.
PurpleYoshi
Is there something wrong? You seem... Tense.
BrownYoshiPanic
Before I tell you what's going on, could you promise not to tell anybody else about what I'm going to tell you?
PurpleYoshi
You can trust me.
BrownYoshi
There are talks by an unusually friendly Spear Guy that the Piranha Plants of Mt. Lavalava have a plan to cause a potentially catastrophic eruption. There are potentially undocumented people inside of Mt. Lavalava who need rescuing. I need to go into Mt. Lavalava to check for any survivors and rescue them.
PurpleYoshiPanic
Okay, that's a lot at once. Basically, Mt. Lavalava is going to erupt and you think there are people inside?
The Spear Guy who met Brown Yoshi, the Village Leader, and Raphael the Raven appears.
SpearGuy
It's true, I've heard footsteps inside Mt. Lavalava.
PurpleYoshiPanic
Eeek, a Spear Guy!
BrownYoshi
Don't worry about him, he's quite friendly towards Yoshis.
SpearGuy
Regardless, I think that there is some activity inside. You better go check.
BrownYoshi
On it.
BrownYoshi is about to mount onto the zipline to Mt. Lavalava, but Purple Yoshi stops him.
PurpleYoshiPanic
Brown Yoshi, are you sure about this?
BrownYoshi
I'm positive.
PurpleYoshi
In that case, I'm going with you. We're a team. We can't let anybody be harmed.
SpearGuy
May I come along to?
BrownYoshi
Of course. Just stick together!
Brown Yoshi and Purple Yoshi hold hands together on the zipline, as the Spear Guy is mounted on Brown Yoshi's back.
BrownYoshiPanic
You're a little heavy...
SpearGuy
Never fear!
The Spear Guy tosses his spear into the gorge separating Jade Jungle and Mt. Lavalava, watching as the spear is absorbed by the stream of lava.
SpearGuyDisarmed
The Spaer Guy has become, uh... Just Guy, I suppose.
BrownYoshi
Right, then. Onward!
Brown Yoshi and Purple Yoshi put their feet up, and the zipline begins to move down, from the trees of Lade Jungle to a cave to Mt. Lavalava.
BrownYoshi
No turning back now.
Purple Yoshi, Brown Yoshi, and the Spear Guy enter Mt. Lavalava.
PurpleYoshiPanic
I knew that volcanoes were hot, but not THIS hot. I feel like I'm being cooked alive by just the air!
BrownYoshi
Let's press forward.
The trio look into the volcano's caves.
PurpleYoshi
Guys, look! Spike Tops!
Down a cliff, a group of Spike Tops could be seen.
BrownYoshi
Hello? Can you hear us?
SpikeTop
What? What do you want?
BrownYoshi
We've come to rescue you.
SpikeTop
Rescue us? Did those Magikoopas keep to their word?
PurpleYoshi
Um... No?
SpikeTop
Those cowardly bastards!
SpearGuyDisarmed
Wait, were there Magikoopas here?
SpikeTop
Well, yes...
Start of flashback.
SpikeTop
The volcano's erupting! We gotta bail!
WhiteMagikoopa
Heh, sucks to be you guys!
RedMagikoopa
Maybe if you Spike Tops were Magikoopas, you'd be gifted the power of flight!
The Red and White Magikoopas fly out of Mt. Lavalava's crater, stranding the Spike Tops.
SpikeTop
W-wait! Help!
LavaBubble
Oh, you'll need help alright.
SpikeTop
I don't want to die like this! I'd rather be killed by Mario than die in a stupid volcano!
LavaBubble
My advice? Get to higher ground. The caves don't flood at higher levels, usually the magma chamber fills with lava quicker, faster, and higher than anywhere else.
SpikeTop
Umm... Thank you?
End of flashback.
SpikeTop
Thanks to that random Lava Bubble, most of us Spike Tops were able to get to higher ground. Not all of us made it during the eruption, but we've been holding out here, feasting on the leaves of Putrid Piranhas for both water and nourishment.
BrownYoshi
What a story. Don't worry, we'll try to help you get out of here.
SpikeTop
That's great news. Boys, round up! Someone's come to rescue us!
About a dozen Spike Tops round up at the bottom of the cliff.
SpikeTop
Yay!
SpikeTop
Finally!
SpikeTop
I finally get to see my girlfriend again!
SpikeTop
We're going home!
PurpleYoshi
How do we get down there?
SpearGuyDisarmed
There's a zipline descending the cliffs and trampolines to head back up the cliffs. If we use the ziplines to head back down, and you two Yoshis could have one carried in your hands, and one on your backs. I could carry just one at a time myself.
PurpleYoshi
Sounds like a plan.
BrownYoshi
Let's do it!
The trio slide down the ziplines, scaling down the cliffs carefully. Each yoshi places one Spike Top on their backs, while having another in their hand. The Spear Guy carries a Spike Top in his hands.
SpikeTop
Freedom!
The trio jump up the trampolines, and hop across the lava streams and caves, reaching back to the entrance of Mt. Lavalava. The scene cuts to a Putrid Piranha near a body of lava.
PutridPiranha
MY MASTER... IS IT TIME TO BEGIN OUR PLAN?
A resounding voice could be heard below the magma.
LavaPiranha
Not yet... Give it time. Soon, but not to soon.
PetitPiranha
Piip!
PutridPiranha
THERE ARE ALREADY ISLAND NATIVES RESCUING THE ABANDONED KOOPAS.
LavaPiranha
Interesting...
The rescue trio place the Spike Tops outside of the entrance.
SpikeTop
Oh man, that was the most exciting adventure I've had!
SpikeTop
I thought I would have fallen off the purple one's back!
BrownYoshi
We're not done yet, we still have to get the rest of your friends.
SpearGuyDisarmed
The rest of you, stay put.
SpikeTop
Understood.
Brown Yoshi, Purple Yoshi, and the Spear Guy run back into Mt. Lavalava to fetch more Spike Tops. The rescue trio bring 5 more Spike Tops to the entrance, gentlty placing them to the ground.
RaphaelTheRaven
Ravens, assemble!
The smaller Ravens begin to tear off tree branches and strip them of their leaves, while cutting and grabbing vines. They begin to assemble a bridge.
SpikeTop
A bridge! A BRIDGE! We're really going home!
The Ravens continue to assemble the bridge. Meanwhile, the rescue trio drop off the last of the Spike Tops at the entrance. They then collapse from exhaustion.
BrownYoshiPanic
I... Made it... Phew...
SpearGuyDisarmed
No, we made it...
PurpleYoshiPanic
I didn't plan on saving lives today, not even ever... What an experience.
RaphaelTheRaven
I knew you could do it, Brown Yoshi.
Brown Yoshi raises his head to look ahead. He could see the Spike Tops chatting amongst themselves, with hope and happiness. The ravens were all crafting a bridge to allow the Spike Tops to cross. He knew that he was responsible for all of this.
BrownYoshiPanic
Where did you... Hear about my effort?
RaphaelTheRaven
One of my Ravens did, he saw you rescue the Spike Tops. Regardless of their history, you decided to rescue them! I am nothing short of proud of you!
BrownYoshiPanic
Thank you...
The Ravens finish building the bridge and place it between the lower Jade Jungle ground separated by the fiery, lava flowing gorge that transitioned to Mt. Lavalava.
RaphaelTheRaven
Cross quickly, but carefullynow! We have about 2 minutes before the bridge bursts into flames.
The 15 Spike Tops cross the bridge as quickly as they could, followed by the Spear Guy.
SpearGuyDisarmed
Come on, Yoshis!
Purple Yoshi gets up, and puts his hand out for Brown Yoshi.
PurpleYoshiPanic
Come on, Brown Yoshi! We still have work to do.
The temporary bridge constructed by the Ravens begins to warp under the heat, and fall into the lava flowing in the gorge.
SpikeTop
Oh no! How are they gonna get across now!?
RaphaelTheRaven
The zipline, of course!
Brown Yoshi finally gains the energy to get up, grabbing Purple Yoshi's hand, who helps him stand.
PurpleYoshiPanic
You okay?
BrownYoshiPanic
I'm fine... Just overwhelmed is all.
The two Yoshis grab onto the zipline, and descend down the gorge. The arrival was met with cheers and applause.
PurpleYoshi
We did it!
BrownYoshiPanic
We did it...
SpearGuyDisarmed
Quick, we need to all get to Yoshi's Village to discuss an evacuation plan!
RaphaelTheRaven
Understood. I shall lead.
Raphael the Raven and his Ravens, the Spear Guy, the fifteen Spike Tops, Purple Yoshi, and Brown Yoshi all follow into the village.

The End of Lavalava

Rumbling can be heard in Yoshi's Village.
GreenYoshi
Do you all hear something?
LightBlueYoshi
Yeah, a whole lotta footsteps.
VillageLeaderPanic
It's an attack on Yoshi's Village! Everyone, take cover!
RedYoshiPanic
That's odd, if it was an attack, surely there would have been a warning?
VillageLeaderPanic
No, it's not just any attack, it's an ambush!
GreenYoshiPanic
Oh no!
YellowYoshiPanic
I'm to young to die!
BabyYellowYoshiPanic
I'm younger still!
The Yoshis all take cover underneath trees and other plaves of shelter. Soon, Brown Yoshi's party arrives in Yoshi's Village.
BrownYoshi
I'm back.
The Yoshi villagers stopped hiding, and emerged from their hiding spots cautiously. They all look at Brown Yoshi, then to Purple Yoshi. They glanced at Raphael the Raven, then towards the Raven. Another gaze towards the fifteen Spike Tops, and lastly a leer towards the Spear Guy.
BabyGreenYoshi
Woah... What's going on here?
The Village Leader's fear subsides quickly. He approaches Brown Yoshi.
VillageLeader
Brown Yoshi... Whatnis the meaning of this?
BrownYoshiPanic
I'm sorry, but you're wrong. The facts are simply too obvious and overwhelming for me to ignore any longer. Lavalava Island is in danger. I've rounded up all of the remaining innocent Spike Tops who were stranded inside Mt. Lavalava, and Raphael the Raven also helped me rescue them. Purple Yoshi too. And even the Spear Guy you disregarded entirely earlier.
BabyLightBlueYoshi
What does Brown Yoshi mean when he says that "Lavalava Island is in danger".
VillageLeader
It means nothing. Look at you, Brown Yoshi. Your paranoia has brought enemies into our safe haven because you're convinced our home is in danger. Here's a wake up call: We are fine, and we don't need your help.
RaphaelTheRaven
Brown Yoshi was brave and uncompromising, however. Even if you do not agree with his actions, you must find his dedication admirable.
VillageLeader
I do not.
The ground begins to shake again.
VillageLeaderPanic
...And now he's bringing a swarm of angry Piranha Plants and Spear Guys to destroy our village!
PurpleYoshiPanic
No he didn't. Leave. Him. Alone.
LightBlueYoshi
If that's not a crowd of people walking, then what-
The ground shakes again, becoming more violent.
BrownYoshiPanic
It's happening.
VillageLeaderPanic
No... No! It can't be!
After another round of ground shaking, Mt. Lavalava begins to erupt. Streams of lava pour down the side of the volcano, and ash spews into the air.
BabyRedYoshiPanic
Mt. Lavalava is erupting!
GreenYoshiPanic
Everyone, take cover!
BabyLightBlueYoshiPanic
Waaaaaaaah!
LightBlueYoshiPanic
Waaaaaah is right! No salvation! We're doomed!
VillageLeaderPanic
Brown Yoshi, I'm so sorry for doubting you. I don't know if you can forgive me ever, but I need you. Please, is there ANYTHING I can do to help you?
BrownYoshi
I don't need your help. After you cast me aside, the only thing I nees is for people to listen to me.
A pyroclastic bomb flies into Yoshi's Cabana, crushing it. The building catches on fire.
PurpleYoshiPanic
Oh no! Is the Yoshi shopkeeper okay?
Emerging from the door is a Light Blue Yoshi flailing and in tears.
LightBlueYoshi
MY WARES! MY BEAUTIFUL MERCHANDISE!
RedYoshiPanic
I think he's fine.
BabyPurpleYoshiPanic
But we won't be!
BrownYoshi
Everyone, listen up. Firstly, I need the Ravens to build rafts. They need to be able to carry up to four people each, and make as many as you can.
RaphaelTheRaven
You can count on us.
Raven
Caw!
BrownYoshi
Next, somebody needs to talk to the Whale. Light Blue Yoshi, compose yourself and talk to him.
LightBlueYoshiPanic
*sniffle* I'll try my best...! *sob*
Light Blue Yoshi runs away to the west coast of Lavalava Island, searching for the whale.
BrownYoshi
Lastly, the unsually helpful Spear Guy. Go into Jade Jungle and rescue as many fellow Spear Guys as you can. They need you more than ever. If they thought of you as crazy for wanting to talk to us Yoshis, then maybe the prospect of death may scare them into leaving the island alive.
SpearGuyDisarmed
I'll do it.
The Spear Guy runs into Jade Jungle. Meanwhile, the Ravens begin headbutting and knocking down trees.
BrownYoshiPanic
I hope we have enough time.
The scene pans out, showing the distressed Yoshis as the nearby Jade Jungle begins to catch on fire.

The Whale

The scene cuts to Light Blue Yoshi walking to the rocky western coast of Lavalava Island.
LightBlueYoshi
Must be brave... Must be brave...
Light Blue Yoshi reaches the edge of the coast.
Whale
Hello there! Do you want to go to Toad Town?
LightBlueYoshiPanic
I'm afraid it's not that simple. As you can see, Lavalava Island is on the brink of total destruction. Mt. Lavalava is currently erupting and paving the way towards an inhospitable charred island at best and certain death at worst. The thought is too much, we need you to help badly!
Whale
Oh dear. How can I help, my good friend?
LightBlueYoshi
Go to the beach near Yoshi's Village. Several rescue rafts will be present. While this wasn't explicitly stated, I'm going to tie these rafts to you so none of the refugees are adrift at sea.
Whale
An excellent idea. I shall follow. Make haste!
The whale begins to move and head towards the beach. He makes it and stops.
Whale
I am awaiting your next request!
LightBlueYoshi
Let me check on those rafts for you...
Light Blue Yoshi runs back to Yoshi's Village.
LightBlueYoshi
Okay, where are the rafts?
RaphaelTheRaven
So far, we've built 2. They're long enough to sustain 6 people aboard.
LightBlueYoshi
I've just checked with the Whale. We agreed to a plan where the rafts would be tied to the Whale's fins, as to not let the rafts drift away. The Whale is waiting at the beach next to the west of the village for the rafts to be tied up on him.
RaphaelTheRaven
Well...
BrownYoshi
You've heard him. To the beach the rafts go.
The Yoshis and Ravens work together to bring the existing rafts to the beach. The other ravens are moved to build additional rafts at the beach rather than Yoshi's Village.
LightBlueYoshi
I believe that should work.
Light Blue Yoshi begins to tie up the rafts to the Whale using vine ropes.
Whale
This will be hard. But I'm prepares for a challenge if it means resucing innocent civillians.
LightBlueYoshi
I'm just glad nobody finds me weak or lame in this particular instance. Desperate measures, one may say.
The scene cuts back to Yoshi's Village.
BrownYoshi
We should let the injured Beach Koopa ride on top of the whale. As he is unable to walk, he is currentlt the most vulnerable person to rescue.
Brown Yoshi walks into the Toad House to get the Beach Koopa. He is wrapped in a large leaf blanket to keep his fevered body regulated.
BeachKoopa
Brown Yoshi, I'm scared...
BrownYoshi
It'll be alright.
BabyRedYoshi
Look! A group of Spear Guys are coming! And... Sushie?
A group of Spear Guys march in with Sushie leading them.
Sushie
These bad boys were getting on my nerves! One of them tried to round 'em up, but he didn't even have a weapon of his own!
SpearGuyDisarmed
That's me...
SpikeTop
Haha!
Raven
Caw.

Sailing Away

The scene cuts to the beach next to Yoshi's Village. Many people are present.
BrownYoshi
Okay, a headcount. There's the Village Leader, me, and the Beach Koopa. We will all ride on the whale himself. Next, we have Red, Yellow, Light Blue, Purple, Green, and the other Light Blue one that ran Yoshi's Cabana. A total of 6, which will occupy one raft, or Raft 1. Next, the Fearsome 5 and Sushie, who will occupy Raft 2. Next, the Toad House owner, and 5 Spike Tops for Raft 3. Raphael The Raven is heavy and will take up all of Raft 4. The remaining rafts, Raft 5, Raft 6, and Raft 7, will be taken up by the remaining 10 Spike Tops and 6 Spear Guys.
VillageLeader
It sounds like a plan.
GreenYoshi
No time to waste.
Whale
I'm ready when everyone else is...Start boarding, everyone!
The Whale and his rafts are all boarded accordingly as per Brown Yoshi's plan.
BrownYoshi
Are we ready?

Escapees
Yes we are!
BrownYoshi
Then away we go!
The Whale begins to swim, pulling each raft from the sand, and into the sea. Just in the nick of time, a lava flow heading straight towards the beach was avoided.
PurpleYoshiPanic
It's so awful to see that our old home was taken away from us.
VillageLeaderPanic
Brown Yoshi, you definetly brushed me off earlier, but I am absolutely sorry. I deserve it. If you don't want to forgive me, I understand.
BrownYoshi
You're going to need to work on your tolerance of other species. Soon, you'll be in Toad Town. An absolute melting pot of different people from differenr backgrounds. Once you understand the people around you instead of your bubble, come back to me and maybe we can discuss our friendship.
VillageLeaderPanic
I don't know what else to say except that I'm sorry, and that I'll try harder...
BrownYoshi
...
BeachKoopa
The first time the Village Leader saw me, he scoffed at me... Glad to see someone else care about me!
The Whale approaches Toad Town in the now sunsetting horzion.

A New Beginning

The Toad Town Harbor was relatively quiet.
Fuzzipede
What on earth is that?
Fishmael
It's the whale...
FemaleToad
...With boats tied to him?
Bartender
What a sight to behold.
PopDiva
I can see people aboard!
The Whale docks in the harbor. Brown Yoshi and the Village Leader dismount, and Brown Yoshi gently carries the Beach Koopa off.
MaleToad
I never thought I'd ever see this place ever again, but... I'm home!
The ex-Toad House Toad jumps off his raft and onto the jetty.
Poet
I have never seen so many people arrive before! What could have possibly happened?
BrownYoshiPanic
Well, to be frank... Lavalava Island is uninhabitable. Mt. Lavalava erupted and it oozed lava everywhere, swallowing Yoshi's Village. Thanks to some quick thinkibg and ample time, we were able to save a lot of people!
PurpleYoshi
Brown Yoshi was fearless. He didn't hesitate to help the Spike Tops trapped in Mt. Lavalava, he listened to a friendly Spear Guy to get a warning that could have resulted in disaster.
LightBlueYoshi
Hooray for Brown Yoshi!
All of the Lavalava Islanders cheered for Brown Yoshi.
SpearGuyDisarmed
I knew I could trust you!
PurpleYoshi
I thought you were the coolest. You're the best friend I've had, Brown Yoshi!
Purple Yoshi hugs Brown Yoshi. Brown Yoshi blushes, while the Village Leader looks ashamed with himself.
VillageLeader
Huuuuhhhhh...
Bartender
You sound like an undeniably intrepid soul. Welcome, Brown Yoshi.
PopDiva
And a warm welcome to all of your friends as well! I'm excited to see what you will do here in Toad Town.
BeachKoopa
I can't wait to go back to Koopa Village! I bet my friends must be worried sick about me after they heard I wanted to sail to Rougeport on a dinky little raft.
BrownYoshi
Haha, I bet you will be.
The new friends chattered and laughed until the sun went down. Brown Yoshi didn't come home as a hero, but he left as a pioneer and an example for others to follow.
END OF CHAPTER
Brown Yoshi was happy to help guide the ex-Lavalava Islanders to new lives. The Village Leader and Green Yoshi moved to Koopa Village, reuniting the Beach Koopa with his friends, earning a new shell as well. Red Yoshi took refuge in Goomba Village. Light Blue Yoshi found a new home in Shiver City. Yellow Yoshi took abode in Dry Dry Outpost. The Fearsome 5 and Sushie all stayed around the Harbor area, and the Spear Guys returned to Shy Guy's Toy Box. The Spike Tops found a new place to live in Forever Forest, the Yoshi Shopkeep began to live and work with Zess T., and lastly; the Toad House Toad found a nice house in Toad Town and retired. Now, how will Lakilulu fare out in her journey?

Chapter 6: Flower Finder

Written by 4DJumpman256.

Flower Fields

Lakilulu is lying down on a field of dandelions, talking to a Spiny.
Lakilulu
…and lastly, how would you say you feel about badges?
Spiny
(The Spiny rolls up into a ball.)
Lakilulu
I see, very interesting…
Lakilester
Yo Lakilulu! Guess wha- uh, are you interviewing a Spiny?
Lakilulu
Oh hi, Lakilester. Princess Peach asked me to survey all of the enemies in Flower Fields for their thoughts on HP upgrades. Including this little guy!
Lakilester
Woah, a mission from the princess? Look at you go! Let me know if you need my help.
Lakilulu
There’s my Lakilester, always wanting to help people! But no thank you, I’ve got this under control.
Lakilester
Aww c’mon! I haven’t gotten to do anything super big and important since Mario’s adventure. Please let me help!
Lakilulu
You can help me by staying out of trouble while I’m gone. Now, I’ve got to go…
Lakilulu tucks the Spiny egg away into her cloud.
Lakilulu
I’m not going to find the rest of these enemies by just pulling them out of my cloud.
Lakilester
Aww, alright. Good luck babe!

Crazee Dayzee

Lakilulu is heading east, past some trees in a flower patch.
Lakilulu
Hello there, little Crazee Dayzee! Would you mind if I asked you a few questions for Princess Peach’s survey?
CrazeeDayzee
Sure thing! I promise to give you my hooonest answers.
Lakilulu
Ok, thank you! First item on the list, what’s your HP?
CrazeeDayzee
8… maybe!
Lakilulu
Now, what’s your opinion on HP upgrades?
CrazeeDayzee
You’ll want lots of those if you don’t want to be hurt by these nasty bzzaps! Take it from a sweet, innocent, totally-trustworthy flower like me.
Lakilulu
…and finally, what do you think of Badges?
CrazeeDayzee
I hate Badges! Travelers who come in with them never fall victim to my drowsy lullabies!
Lakilulu
Oh, I meant… What you think of badges you’ve used for yourself?
CrazeeDayzee
I still hate them! I tried this pretty one with a music note, and it made my lovely singing voice sound all funny.
Petunia
Somebody! Help!
Lakilulu
Uh oh, I’d better see what’s going on over there. Thank you for your time!
CrazeeDayzee
Hmph! Remember to get delicious, honey-flavored fruits by shaking lots of trees!

Petunia and the Monty Moles

Lakilulu quickly flies further eastward, and sees Petunia surrounded by four Monty Moles.
Petunia
Thank goodness you’re here. These wicked creatures keep trying to nibble away at my roots!
GreenMontyMole
Just a little bit, I mean c’mon we’re all friends here.
Lakilulu
Hey, I thought Monty Moles were native to Mt. Rugged. These wear more of a… Grimy lime design.
Lakilulu
Petunia, would you mind if I gave these guys a quick interview?
Petunia
If it will keep their mouths off of my roots, then go for it.
Lakilulu
Now, you troublemakers, what’s your HP?
GreenMontyMole
48.
GreenMontyMole
Wait, like, total? Or just one of us?
Lakilulu
Just one.
GreenMontyMole
Oh, then 12.
Lakilulu
What’s your opinion on HP upgrades?
GreenMontyMole
Can you throw HP upgrades?
Lakilulu
What?
GreenMontyMole
If you can’t throw it, it must be weak.
GreenMontyMole
Yeah, nah. HP upgrades are totally weak.
Lakilulu
Um, okay. Well, what do you think of badges?
GreenMontyMole
Can you throw badges?
GreenMontyMole
Oh yeah, I love throwing badges.
GreenMontyMole
You’re not supposed to throw badges, you wear them!
GreenMontyMole
Hey, throwing’s worked out great for me.
GreenMontyMole
This is why you’re only the third strongest mole, jerk
GreenMontyMole
YOU’RE the third strongest mole!
Lakilulu
Quiet! That will be enough.
GreenMontyMole
Cool.
Lakilulu
Now leave Petunia alone before I throw a spiny at your heads!
GreenMontyMole
Ahhh!!!
GreenMontyMole
Okay, sheesh!
GreenMontyMole
We’re leaving!!
GreenMontyMole
Go and listen to our awesome encounter music bye!
Petunia
Yippee! The Moles are gone!! I can’t thank you enough!!!
Lakilulu
It was nothing. Now stay safe, Petunia!

Lakitu

Lakilulu flies over a large pit of thorns, and sees a fellow Lakitu pacing about, spinning a Spiny egg on his finger like a basketball.
Lakitu
Jugemu Jugemu Goko no Surikire Kaijarisuigyo… No… What came after that?
Lakilulu
Hey!
Lakitu
Oh hey, Lakilulu. What’s up?
Lakilulu
Just doing some survey stuff for the princess. I’m asking every enemy for their opinion on HP upgrades.
Lakitu
Woah, you go! Need me to get you a- whatever those things are?
Lakitu points to the Spiny egg.
Lakilulu
No, thank you. I have Spinies at home. I could use a bit of your time though.
Lakitu
Heck yeah, asking the real powerful enemies, I see. Alright, hit me with those questions.
Lakilulu
Sure thing! First, what’s your HP?
Lakitu
Uhh, 12.
Lakilulu
Next, how do you feel about HP upgrades?
Lakitu
Don’t got a problem with ‘em.
Lakilulu
And finally, what are your thoughts on badges?
RuffPuff
Badges are so cool. I’d love to touch one someday.
Lakitu
Wha- Huh?! You’re not my cloud!
RuffPuff
Boss never let us touch his badge.
Lakitu
What’re you doing, man? Where’d my cloud go?
RuffPuff
Oh. Yeah. I was hoping to demo my chauffer-flying skills to some of the Lakitus around here. I’ve been looking for work since Huff N. Puff fired me for trying to take his “super-powerful” badge.
RuffPuff
Whaddya think? Just as good as your old cloud?
Lakitu
Oh. You want work? I’ll put ya to work alright.
Lakitu
Put you to work to pay off the cloud you destroyed!
RuffPuff
I didn’t destroy it, I just left it by that log.
Lakilulu
Don’t you know Lakitu Clouds disappear if you leave them alone?!
Lakitu
They’re expensive too. I’d been saving up for a year to buy that thingy.
Lakilulu
You should be ashamed of yourself.
RuffPuff
Geez, sorr-REE.
Lakitu
Those things don’t just appear out of thin air!
Lakilulu
I don’t have time for this, I’ve got interviews to do.
Lakitu
See ya later, Lakilulu. Tell Lakilester I said hi.
Lakilulu
Will do!
Lakillulu flies away.
RuffPuff
They totally do appear out of thin air though.
Lakitu
Wait, really?

Green and Yellow Magikoopas

GreenMagikoopa
You nincompoop, HP is the superior stat to upgrade.
YellowMagikoopa
I’m telling you, BP is the better choice by far.
Lakilulu
Hello, Magikoopas, could I please ask you a few questions.
YellowMagikoopa
Get lost, lady! We’re in the middle of a heated debate about HP upgrades!
Lakilulu
That’s perfect, actually. That’s exactly what the princess asked me to survey people about.
GreenMagikoopa
Oh. Well then, I suppose you could stick around.
Lakilulu
Yay! I’ll get started. Firstly, what’s your HP?
YellowMagikoopa
11 at maximum.
GreenMagikoopa
Eh- er, yes. Also 11.
Lakilulu
What do you think of HP upgrades?
GreenMagikoopa
Oh, don’t get us started on that.
YellowMagikoopa
Just don’t.
Lakilulu
Lastly, what’s your opinion on Badges?
GreenMagikoopa
I never personally found them all that helpful.
YellowMagikoopa
Shows what you know. I personally love Badges, especially those like Zap Tap. You’ll find it hard to argue with the ability to grant yourself an electric barrier from all close-quarters attacks!
GreenMagikoopa
But what good is a Zap Tap badge to any of us when you can simply grant us that effect anyway?
YellowMagikoopa
Why, I say you ought to- Hmm. I see. You may raise a good point actually.
YellowMagikoopa
In fact, I wonder what other Badge effects we can replicate… Feeling Fine!
GreenMagikoopa
Ow! Watch it you- Oh, my migraine’s gone!
YellowMagikoopa
Dodge Master!
GreenMagikoopa
Ack! My vision’s all blurry. I’ll need to- hmm…well, I suppose I won’t be needing these glasses anymore.
Lakilulu
Thank you both, I’ll be on my merry way now.
YellowMagikoopa
GreenMagikoopa
Wah-huh. Hngh! Why would you do that? Now I can barely move.

Tolielip

Lakilulu
Who’s next, Amazy Dayzee? I don’t think I’ve ever seen one of those.
Lakilulu
I’ll go ask Tolielip if he’s seen one around.
Lakilulu heads back to the center of Flower Fields, next to the Wise Wisterwood and the tall beanstalk.
Lakilulu
Hey there Tolielip, do you know where I might be able to find an Amazee Dayzee?
Tolielip
Amazee Dayzee? Uh-huh, yeah. I think I saw one go up to the Cloudy Climb. You’ll definitely find one there! Heh heh heh.
Lakilulu
Thanks Tolielip!

Cloudy Climb

Lakilulu rides a leaf up the beanstalk, finding herself in the lair of Huff N. Puff.
Lakilulu
Oh, ew! It’s that horrible monster who Lakilester used to work for. He’s the most despicable brute in all of Flower Fields!
Lakilulu
Hm, actually…
Lakilulu
Hey Huff N. Puff!
HuffNPuff
Oh, if it isn’t the girlfriend of that traitor! Whaddya want?!
Lakilulu
I’m here to conduct a survey on behalf of… Well, it doesn’t matter. But all Flower Fields residents have to participate!
HuffNPuff
Gah, fine! Just get on with it. As much it would pain me.
Five Tuff Puffs emerge from Huff N. Puff’s body.
HuffNPuff
See? It’s already paining me!
Lakilulu
What’s your max HP?
HuffNPuff
60 HP.
SmallTuffPuff
One!
Lakilulu
What’s your opinion on HP upgrades?
HuffNPuff
I don’t need HP upgrades, I can heal myself whenever I want. Watch this.
(Huff N. Puff inhales the swarms of Tuff Puffs surrounding him.)
SmallTuffPuff
Noooooo!!!
Lakilulu
How could you do that to your own minions?! You really are horrible.
Lakilulu
Ngh, I still need to ask: what do you think of badges?
HuffNPuff
I love badges! In fact, I keep my treasured “Super Jump Charge” next to my lair at all times, one of the strongest in the world.
HuffNPuff
I haven’t the foggiest idea where it could have gone. I bought this “Super Smash Charge” to replace it, but it’s just not the same.
Lakilulu
Well I hope you never find it, you rotten stink cloud! Goodbye to you!
HuffNPuff
Hey!

Sun Tower

Lakilulu descends the Cloudy Climb.
Lakilulu
That still leaves just one… But I don’t know where else to look! I guess I could look over by…
Lakilulu makes her way towards the Sun Tower.
Lakilester
Hey there, pretty little lady. What are you doing in this part of town?
Lakilulu
Lakilester! Would you quit that?! I told you I’ve got survey work to do.
Lakilester
Lakilester? Nah, I’m Spike. Spike? Jonathan. Yeah, that’s a cool name. Jonathan.
Lakilulu
Stop being silly! You know very well I’ve got important work to do. Princess Peach asked me to survey every enemy in the Flower Fields for their opinions on HP upgrades.
Lakilester
Every enemy? I’ll have you know that I’m quite the tough enemy.
Lakilulu
Really? What’s your HP?
Lakilester
50, (I’ve been working out).
Lakilulu
What’s your opinion on HP upgrades?
Lakilester
I used to be all about those. Hence the 50. But after traveling with Mario, y’know, he’d shown me the value of FP and BP. Now get why people say being well-rounded is important.
Lakilulu
Well I’m glad to hear you’ve grown and learned something from your travels!
Lakilester
Oh yeah, for sure. Mario had a ton of cool Badges. There was this one that could let him walk on spikes, or fire, even! Yeah, they’re rad.
Lakilulu
…and I suppose that answers my last question.
Lakilester
Sick. Then what do you say we go home and get a milkshake?
Lakilulu
I’d love to, but I still have one more enemy to find.
Lakilester
Which is it?
Lakilester
Wait, don’t tell me. Amazee Dayzee?
Lakilulu
Yes… How did you know?
Lakilester
Ha! Good luck finding one of those. They’re rarer than- THERE’S ONE RIGHT THERE!
Lakilulu
What? Catch it!
Lakilester
It’s running too fast. We'll never catch up to it at this rate.
Lakilulu
Throw Spiny eggs to corner it!
Lakilester
Yes ma’am.
Lakilulu and Lakilester throw spiny eggs in the path of the Amazee Dayzee, creating a maze for it to run through.
Lakilulu
It’s still getting away!
Lakilester
I’ve got this…
Lakilester
Hurricane!
Lakilester creates a massive gust of wind, blowing the Amazee Dayzee into a tree. Once it’s stuck, he equips a Slow Go badge onto it.
Lakilester
Ha! Good luck running away now!
Lakilulu
Yes! Good job Lakilester.
AmazeeDayzee
WHAT DID YOU DO?!?! WHAT IS THIS??!?!??!!
Lakilulu
Now, as for you…what’s your HP?
The Amazee Dayzee takes off the Slow Go badge, stomps on it 20 times, and runs away.
Lakilester
Guess they don’t like Badges.
Lakilulu
I can’t imagine why. Now, what do you say we go home and get a milkshake? My treat.
Lakilester
Woohoo!!!
END OF CHAPTER

Epilogue

RuffPuff
See, told you. The water vapor just collects right here and…voila! Fresh new clouds, ripe for the taking.
Lakitu
Oh, we’re going to be so rich.

Chapter 7: Shimmering Shiver City

Written by User:Christianosc and User:ProblematicPeriwinklePlum.

Herringway’s Home

Herringway can be seen inside of him home in Shiver City. At his desk, he can be seen reviewing his survey packet with much care and attention to detail.
Herringway
...White Clubba… Swoopula… Monstar… and Crystal King, that should do it for the list. Hmm, I have quite the number of people to survey better get started now.
Herringway gets his supplies together in a backpack.
Herringway
Well, onwards now!
Herringway exits his home and walks out on the street of Shiver City.
MayorsWife
Oh, looks like Herringway's on a big journey again!
Mayor
Or… Maybe not. After all, he was assigned to do that HP survey thing by Princess Peach of the Mushroom Kingdom.
MayorsWife
Oh? Maybe he's gonna write a fantastic story about such travels!
Mayor
Maybe… Who knows? He's always such a curious character.
MayorsWife
Ah… So you do understand his complexities!
FrostT
Everyone here knows that you're the biggest fan of Herringway, so that doesn't necessarily surprise me.
MayorsWife
He's great! Honestly! No bias!
Mayor
Oh, my sweetheart… It's okay to get a little excited sometimes.
Herringway can be seen walking out the gates of Shiver City.
Bumpty
Farewell! Be back in one piece, please!
By the time that the Bumpty had said that, Herringway was already far into the horizon, carrying supplies and reading various papers.

Gulpit

Herringway
Now, where should I head to first?
Herringway takes out a map from his backpack.
Herringway
Let’s see Shiver Snowfield thats seems like a good place to start…
A Gulpit can be seen in the distance.
Herringway
Ah, a Gulpit! How convenient. Now, how would I approach it?
Herringway places his backpack down and sidesteps up towards the Gulpit.
Gulpit
...
Herringway is now directly behind the Gulpit. He grabs his pen and begins to write down some info.
Herringway
Ahem.
The Gulpit is frightened and turns around with great haste.
Gulpit
GAH! What are you even doing behind me?!
Herringway
Oh, hello there. No intent to harm, but may I trouble you to ask just a few brief questions.
Gulpit
No! Get outta my face BLEGH!
The Gulpit vomits up a rock as a projectile and aims it towards Herringway.
GulpitRock
*thud*
Herringway
Now that was a completely unprecedented and volatile reaction. Again, I reiterate that I mean no harm to you. Now then, will you participate?
Gulpit
BLEGH!
The Gulpit spews out a generic-looking, lifeless Bumpty out of himself.
Gulpit
Now, this is what will happen to you if you don't keep your mouth shut. It would be in the best of your interests to head back to Shiver City.
Bumpty
Urggh…
Gulpit
What? You're not dead? I was trying to make an example out of you!
Bumpty
That's… No fair…
Herringway immediately rushes towards the regurgitated Bumpty from the Gulpit.
Herringway
Are you okay?
Bumpty
It could be better… At least I'm alive.
Herringway
I don't know what will happen next, but I shall make my vengeance clear to this vile creature!
Herringway throws a rock at the Gulpit!
Gulpit
Ow! You said that you wouldn't harm me!
Herringway
Unfortunately, it was necessary for my own protection; as you were the one to initiate combat.
Gulpit
BLEGH!
A rock is regurgitated from the Gulpit. Herringway dodges it with grace.
GulpitRock
*klunk*
Herringway
Unfortunately, you seem to have underestimated my skills at dodging projectiles. Now, I will give you an option to peacefully surrender. I believe it is the wisest choice.
Gulpit
...Fine.
The Gulpit concedes and raises his hands into the air to surrender.
Gulpit
Okay. I give up. Now, what do you want from me?
Bumpty
You… Monster…
Herringway
I want to ask you three simple questions. These questions are generally non-violent in nature, to the best of my recollection.
Gulpit
Okay, fine. Go and ask me.
Herringway
Okay, now… What is your Max HP?
Gulpit
12 HP.
Herringway
Okay, now… What are your opinion on HP upgrades?
Gulpit
If you hut hard, you won't have to think for another second about your defenses.
Herringway
Interesting, intriguing, fascinating… Now, my final question; what do you think of badges?
Gulpit
Annoying. Dumb. Lame. Stupid. Insufferable. Unbearable. Abhorrent. Awful. Disgusting. Despicable. Gross. Pitiful. Putrid. Negative adjective number 14. Have I made it clear that I hate them? And you?
Herringway
I see, understood. Thank you for answering my questions.
Gulpit
BLEGH!
The Gulpit launches a rock towards Herringway, he dodges once again.
Herringway
You're going to have to try harder to attack me. Regardless, I will take my leave.
Gulpit
Good.
The Gulpit walks away in a prideful stride.
Herringway
Hmm…
Herringway notices the weak and injured Bumpty that the Gulpit had regurgitated out earlier.
Herringway
Are you okay?
The Bumpty gets up on his feet.
Bumpty
I'm sorry. I was trying to head out for a walk, and that rude… Thing decided to attack me for no discernable reason. And ate me! Ugh, I don't want to go through that again…
Herringway
Don't worry, you're safe and sound now. Now then, what is your name?
Bumpty
My name… Is Ancho.
Herringway
Nice to meet you, Ancho. Now, what do you do?
Bumpty
Oh, I'm not really the beast traveler. As you just saw, I got pretty beat up by that Gulpit. It's a miracle that you just so happened to be around here so you could save me from an untimely fate.
Herringway
It's nothing.
Bumpty
I uh… Like to tell jokes! Would you like to hear one?
Herringway
I'm a little pressed for time, but sure. Go ahead, try to impress me.
Bumpty
Did you know that Mario has a doppleganger sister? Her name is Maria! A knee slapper there, eh!?
Herringway
Uh… Yeah. That's funny, I guess.
Bumpty
Oh, oh! I've got a better one! Why were all of the Toads invited to Princess Peach's survey summons? Because they're fungis! Haha! Isn't that funny?
Herringway
...Thank you, Ancho.
Bumpty
Huh…? Oh, I get it. It's fine, I got to improve my routine anyways. Sand off those edges, buff out those scratches… It'll be fine.
Herringway
Ancho, would you perhaps like some pointers?
Bumpty
Huh? Oh, of course! After all, you are one of the most famous non-fiction novelists across the greater Mushroom Kingdom area!
Herringway
Well, comedy may not be my strongest suit, but… Would you perhaps like to be a part of my next adventure?
Bumpty
A-a-adventure? Really!? Do you mean it!? Oh… Wow! I'm so ecstatic I could explode in joy! I'd love that!
Ancho runs up to Herringway and hugs him.
Bumpty
Oh, thankyouthankyouthankyouthankyouthankyou-
Herringway
Okay, okay. I believe you've made your point. Now then, pack your bags. You may just be immortalized in text sooner than you think.
Bumpty
Oh, wow… Shiver Region, here we come!
Herringway and Ancho continue to walk down the path.

Frosty Piranha

Herringway and Ancho can be seen walking down a snowy path, with Herringway holding a book in one hand and a pencil in the other, taking notes as he traveled.
Bumpty
So, where are we going?
Herringway
I was going to Shiver Snowfield for a Gulpit. ...But we just encountered that, so onto Shiver Mountain!
Herringway and Ancho make their way to Shiver Mountain and encounter an enemy.
Herringway
Ah yes, the next enemy is the Frost Piranha! Known for spitting out ice balls, like an ice flower.
Bumpty
But Herringway, I don’t think it can talk?
FrostyPiranha
It?? I’m not an object.
Bumpty
AH!
Herringway
Actually Ancho, these types of Piranha Plants can talk, along with Lava Piranhas.
Bumpty
Oh, I see.
FrostyPiranha
What do you want from me!?
Herringway
We have a few questions to ask you about Heart Points/HP-Up Hearts/Health Upgrades.
FrostyPiranha
Okay, I get it, you’re talking about hearts.
Herringway
So will you take the survey?
FrostyPiranha
Hmmm.... What do I get out of it?
Herringway
Um, w-well…
Bumpty
Uh, this potato!
Herringway
H-Hey! That’s mine!
FrostyPiranha
I am kinda hungry. Alright go ahead.
Herringway
What is your max Heart Points?
FrostyPiranha
10.
Herringway
Very good. Now, what do you think of Heart Point Upgrades, do you think they're useful?
FrostyPiranha
I don't know, maybe?
Herringway
Very well, last question. What do you think of Badges?
FrostyPiranha
I only like the Ice Power one, those serve me purpose.
Herringway
Great. That’s all the questions!
Bumpty
Here’s your potato!
Ancho shoves the Ice Potato into the Piranha’s mouth.
FrostyPiranha
GUP-
Herringway
Next on the list is White Clubba. Have you seen a White Clubba anywhere?
FrostyPiranha
*Eating Iced Potato* Thezz chouda be forther up awheat.
Herringway
Repeat that?
Bumpty
It said they should be further up ahead.
FrostyPiranha
*Eating Iced Potato* OIM NOWT OIN OIBCHED!
Herringway
Thank you sir, now we best be on our way.

White Clubba

Herringway and Ancho spot a White Clubba.
Herringway
Greetings, White Clubba.
WhiteClubba
How did you two get up here without failing miserably? HAH!
Bumpty
Hey! If anything; going to attack Herringway you’ll have to get through me fir-
Ancho is knocked off by a snowball.
Bumpty
AAAAAAAAH!!
Herringway
...Uh, we have some questions to ask you.
WhiteClubba
Like?
Herringway
Well, I suppose-er, guess I'll ask them. First, what is your max Heart Points?
WhiteClubba
15! Wait no 12.
Ok, and what do you think of HP upgrades?
WhiteClubba
Feels like a cheat!
Herringway
Okay. And lastly, what do you think of Badges?
WhiteClubba
Again, cheats!
Herringway
Okay, that is all. Better check on my acquaintance!

Swoopula

Herringway heads back down to Ancho.
Herringway
Ancho! Are you alright?
Bumpty
Yeah…*yawn*. How many do we have left to interview?
Herringway
Let’s see...
Herringway is reading the list of enemies.
Herringway
Ok… Gulpit, Check. Frost Piranha, Check. White Clubba, check. I think now the last place to look for enemies is the The Crystal Palace.
Ancho is taken aback with fear.
Bumpty
Um, isn’t that where the worst ones are?
Herringway
I think that’s subjective, but we got to anyway. It’s very urgent I ask these questions to many enemies.
Bumpty
Well, I guess you’re a bit of a toadstool. Because you're only a pedestal to a bigger problem. HA! get it?
Herringway
...Moving on.
Herringway and Ancho enter the palace.
Herringway
Well, here we are.
Bumpty
It’s empty... Welp, guess we can go.
Herringway
We haven’t explored yet. Many enemies stay hidden in this place.
Bumpty
Like that Swoop up there?
A Swoopula is hanging from the ceiling.
Herringway
Yes, exactly like that. We have our next foe. Hey! Care to take a survey!
Swoopula
...zzz…
Bumpty
I think they're sleeping.
Herringway
Ah right, we gotta wake them up.
Bumpty
What’s in your backpack?
Herringway
Let’s see... My map, Iced Potatoes, Super Mushrooms, Hammer, Apple?
Bumpty
Apple!
Ancho throws the apple at Swoopula.
Swoopula
WOAH!
The Swoopula falls the floor head first.
Herringway
Ancho! That was rather reckless.
Bumpty
My bad...
Herringway
It’s alright, Is that Swoopula okay?
Herringway approaches the Swoopula.
Herringway
H-Hello? Are you alright?
Swoopula
BOO!
Herringway
AH!
Bumpty
AH!
Swoopula
Ha! Got you!
Bumpty
Heh, nice one.
Herringway
W-wha?? I thought you were knocked out!?
Swoopula
An apple wouldn’t knock me out, but a hammer could.
Herringway
I- whatever not important, we have a few questions to ask you.
Swoopula
Okay, go ahead.
Herringway
What is your max Heart Points?
Swoopula
Uh... 8?
Herringway
I see... What are your opinions on Heart Point upgrades?
Swoopula
I don’t think I know what that is.
Herringway
That’s perfectly fine... And what do you think of Badges?
Swoopula
Hammer ones are scary!
Herringway
Okay, that's all. Thanks for taking the survey. Do you know where other enemies may be?
Swoopula
Oh, I can call my friend Duplighost here.
Herringway
That would be efficient.
Swoopula
HEY DUPLE! GET OVER HERE!

Duplighost

Another Bumpty enters the room.
Bumpty
'Sup.
Bumpty
Wait, is that me??
Herringway
Wait, what the flap!?
Swoopula
Duple, you’re scaring people again.
The Bumpty is revealed to be Duplighost.
Duplighost
Heh, funny time!
Bumpty
Wh-wha?
Herringway
Ah right silly me, we Duplighosts can take on the appearance, voice and abilities of other people.
Bumpty
Thats... Pretty funny!
Duplighost
Thanks.
Bumpty
When I become a comedian, you've got to be my special guest.
Herringway
Can we talk about that later. Ahem, anyway we have a few questions to ask-
Duplighost
Oh! I overheard you already, my max is 15 HP, I like HP upgrades and I don’t care for Badges.
Herringway is seen writing this information down.
Herringway
Could you maybe repeat that?
Duplighost
Bye.
The Duplighost walks away.
Bumpty
Wowee! Now there’s just one more!
Herringway
Correct, and that's the Crystal King. Swoopula, do you know where he is?
Swoopula
They're all the way to the right at the end of the Crystal Palace.
Herringway
Thanks, let's get going.

Crystal King

Herringway and Ancho make their way to the final room of the Palace.
Herringway
Here we are.
Bumpty
You think I should tell him a joke?
Herringway
Don’t be foolish, Ancho. This is serious.
Bumpty
Why were all of the Toads invited to Princess Peach's survey summons?... Because they're fungis!
CrystalKing
Herringway
CrystalKing
...Ha ha! Your friend amuses me. Okay, I’ll take the survey.
Herringway
OH! Um, okay... What’s your max Heart Points?
CrystalKing
70, gotta have it big.
Herringway
Your thoughts on Heart Point Upgrades?
CrystalKing
I'd say they’re pretty good.
Herringway
Ok and last question, your thoughts on Badges?
CrystalKing
Don’t think I care for those.
Herringway
And that's it, thanks for answering. Let’s go Ancho.
Bumpty
Seeya!
Herringway and Ancho exit the Palace.
Herringway
Good job there, Ancho. Shouldn’t have doubted yoy.
Bumpty
Thanks Herringway, so we’re now done!
Herringway
Actually...
Bumpty
?
Herringway
There’s one more enemy we should encounter, follow me.
Herringway runs off with Ancho behind him.

Starborn Valley

Herringway and Ancho can be seen walking into Starborn Valley.
Bumpty
Herringway, don't you think we're just a little lost? I don't think there's any enemies here in Starborn Valley!
Herringway
There's some information that I know can be answered. Since I never saw a Monstar, I believe that some of the locals here will be able to answer out questions.
Bumpty
Huh? OH-oh, I get it now.
Herringway and Ancho walk into Starborn Valley.
Ninji
Welcome to Starborn Valley. What brings you two here today?
Bumpty
Hello there! My name is Ancho, I wish to become a great comedian! This is my accomplice and partner in crime, Herringway? You know Herringway, dontcha? Kinda hard to miss, with those elegant eyebrow feathers, his fame… Oh, why am I wasting my breath? His presence speaks for himself!
Ninji
I know who Herringway is, and the fact that he is physically present with you. I was just being polite. Regardless, do you have any particular business here?
Herringway
To my understanding, there was once a creature that inhabited this area known as a "Monstar". Apparently, it no longer exists and we wanted to know if anybody here could help us out by telling us info about it.
Ninji
Monstar? Oh, Monstar. Truth be told, I'm not an expert on that. You may want to speak to our Shaman leader, Merle.
Bumpty
And where exactly is Merle located?
Ninji
Over there.
The Ninji points into the distance, and points towards a hut.
Ninji
That's him.
Bumpty
Merle's a house?
Ninji
No, he lives 'in' the house.
Bumpty
Oh. I get it now!
Herringway
Thank you for the information, err…
Ninji
You can call me Ninji.
Herringway
Well thank you, Ninji. Your information is proving to be invaluable assistance to us.
Herringway and Ancho walk up to Merle's hut. Herringway knocks on the door.
Herringway
Hello? Anybody home?

???
Come in, come in.
Bumpty
Okay, here we go.
Ancho grabs Herringway's wing to turn the doorknob, and they both enter Merle's hut.
Merle
Greetings. You must be from Shiver City, as you're both Bumpties. What brings you here today?
Herringway
Hello, Merle. I was wondering if you would happen to recall details regarding the elusive creature known as "Monstar".
Merle
Monstar, eh? That wasn't a real monster. In truth, it was a group of Star Kids who wished to protect Starborn Valley from invaders with malicious intent. I don't know the full details, but some of the Star Kids who once made up Monstar may be able to know. Some of them have since ascended to Star Haven, though.
Bumpty
Would you happen to know any particular Star Kid who would recall that information?
Merle
I do, in fact. Follow me.
Merle walks out of his hut with Herringway and Ancho following, and heads to a frozen puddle with a Star Kid floating over it.
Merle
I hope he may be of assistance.
Twink
Who? Me?
Merle
Yes, you. Some residents of Shiver City have come over to ask you about something in particular.
Twink
Oh? What is it?
Merle
I'll leave it to them to answer your question. I'll be heading back now.
Herringway
Thank you for your assistance.
Merle
It is my pleasure.
Merle walks back in the direction towards his hut.
Bumpty
So… Now what?
Twink
Now what? You talked to me for no reason? That's a tad strange.
Herringway
No no, we do have a purpose. Please excuse Ancho, he's a bit over eager to please others, but he does mean well in the end.
Bumpty
That's me! …I think.
Twink
Oh. Well, enough stalling, what did you have in mind to ask me?
Herringway
I am a delegate for a survey project by Princess Peach of the Mushroom Kingdom. It is my goal to ask potential interviewees regarding their opinions on HP, what their max HP is, and their opinion on badges.
Twink
All that? I'm no fighter…!
Herringway
Please let me finish. One of these assigned creatures to interview by the princess was Monstar. Allegedly, it was moreso a prank by the Star Kids who lived in Starborn Valley to keep outsiders away. Mario had defeates the illusion, and Monstar was no more. Merle has alleged you to be among the Star Kids to have been a part of the "Monstar incident", so to speak. Is this true?
Twink
...Yes, I admit it. What's gonna happen to me? Are you going to take me away?
Bumpty
But won't you be taken away anyways to Star Haven at some point in your life regardless?
Herringway
Ancho, please remain silent. It's disrespectful to interrupt an ongoing conversation.
Bumpty
Oh, okay…
Herringway
I'm sorry for my acquaintance's disturbance, we have no intent to remove you from your home. We would simply like to ask you the three questions we mentioned earlier, because you would naturally be the best candidate.
Twink
Oh, that would be fun! I've always wanted to be a star!
Bumpty
...But you're already a star?
Twink
No, I mean famous! This could be my big break, being interviewed on behalf of the princess of the Mushroom Kingdom herself; Princess Peach!
Herringway
Those are indeed, lofty aspirations. Regardless, I will now ask you your first question: What is your max HP; or in this case, what 'was' your HP while you were in the state of Monstar?
Twink
Monstar's max HP was 20!
Herringway
Good good, excellent. Now then, what would your opinion on HP Upgrades, in the mind of Monstar, have been?
Twink
I think it would have liked it.
Herringway
Great. Now then, my final question. What do you think Monstar's opinion on badges have been?
Twink
Oh, oh! I actually kind of know a real answer to this! If I think, if I can 'really' think…!
Flashback sequence starts. The scene is established to be in the outskirts of Starborn Valley.
Rowf
I bet I can lay off this old badge inventory that's been rotting in my ware for years now! I bet Starborn Valley could have a bunch of the spendy folks.
Monstar appears in front of Rowf.
Monstar
Raaaawwwwrrrr! Yoouuu have to lleeeeaaaavvveee!
Rowf
EEEEYIKES! A monster!
Monstar
Ahahahahaha! You're spooked now, aren't you!?
Rowf
Okay, okay! Here, I've got a deal for you. You can have all of my badges, and I mean ALL of my badges, and then you can leave me alone and don't hurt me.
Monstar
Hmmm… Let… me… Think…
Silence falls for a solid 22 seconds.
Monstar
I have coooommme to my coonnncclllusssiiiooonn.
Rowf
Oh, and what would it be?
Monstar
I believe that YYYYOOOOUUURRRR OFFFFEEEERRRR IIISSSS PAAAATTTHHHETTTICCC! LEAVE NOW!
Monstar continues to roar at Rowf. He scurries away.
Rowf
Aw man, I never expected to have such a chilly reception here! Gaaaahhhh!
End of flashback.
Twink
And that was the 'actual' Monstar's experience with Badges. He didn't like them! Or more accurately, we didn't think highly of them.
Herringway finishes writing in his notebook and puts it away.
Herringway
How interesting… I was quite entertained by your recollection of the events, I must admit. Thank you for your time.
Twink
Oh, you're welcome! Glad to be of assistance.
Herringway
Well, I shall be heading on my way. Goodbye.
Twink
Goodbye!
Twink and Ancho walk away from the scene.
Bumpty
That kid was weird.
Herringway
Well, I can admit… He's quite the interesting character.
Herringway and Ancho walk out of Starborn Valley.

Return to Herringway’s home

Herringway and Ancho arrive back in Shiver City.
Mayor
Welcome back, Herringway!
MayorsWife
How was your travels?
Herringway
Quite the journey, I think it something I’ll have to write about.
Bumpty
Oh! Will I be included in it?
Herringway
Well you were accompanying me, Of course.
Bumpty
Nice!
MayorsWife
Who’s this?
Bumpty
I’m Ancho! A future comedian…Someday.Hopefully.
Herringway
This is Ancho. I saved him from a Gulpit, and he helped me out on the journey.
Mayor
I see. Welcome to Shiver City, Ancho.
Bumpty
I’ve actually been here before... I think?
Herringway
Well, I'm gonna head home. See you three later.
MayorsWife
Bye Herringway.
Bumpty
Y-yeah, bye...
Herringway enters his home, they sit at their desk and take out a piece of paper.
Herringway
*writes* My Travels Today:
Herringway
A lot to talk about what first for my draft?
*knock* *knock*
Herringway
Who could that be?
Herringway answers the door.
Herringway
Ancho? What is it?
Bumpty
W-well... Here’s the thing. I have nowhere else to go... I don’t have a place to stay. So I was wondering If I could...um-
Herringway hesitates but:
Herringway
Ok, sure. Get in here.
Bumpty
YAY! You’re a great friend. *gasp* Hey! I can show you my comedy skits!
Ancho says as the two enter inside.
END OF CHAPTER

Chapter 8: Starring You!

Written by ProblematicPeriwinklePlum.

Shooting Star Summit

A Star and be seen floating from Peach's Castle to Shooting Star Summit, holding a packet.
Star
Oh dear... Why me? I'm not up for huge repsonsibilities.
A Blue Magikoopa flies by.
BlueMagikoopa
Hey! Watch it!
Star
S-sorry!
The Star ducks quickly.
Star
I haven't really been away from Star Haven in a while.
The Star continues to float towards Shooting Star Summit.
Star
So close, but so far away. I wonder how the others are doing...
The Star notices a quaint house nearby. It is purple and elegant
Star
I can't help but think... Something, or someone can help me in there.
The star floats towards the house's door and knocks.
Star
Hello?

???
Oh, do come in.
The Star opens the door.
Star
Wow, it looks... Magical in here.
Merluvlee
Well, there may not be much magic quite here, there sure is a lot of love in our humble abode.
Star
Oh, I'm sorry! Forgive my intrusion. What is your name, if you'd forgive me for my impatience?
Merluvlee
No fear. My name is Merluvlee. My job is to give guidance to those who need it with my fortune-telling. What brings you here?
Star
Oh, me? Well, I was asked to do some kind of survey for Princess Peach. I'm supposed to ask the local enemies and such about their opinions on HP Upgrades or something... It's pretty bizarre, and I don't quite fully understand.
Merluvlee
I'm not sure if I could quite help with that, for I simply help others find things they desire, more than simple guidance. You may want to see my good friend Merlon in Toad Town. He specializes in forseeing ways to aid your future.
Star
Oh, I see. I don't want to be a bother, then. I guess I can go on my way now.
Merluvlee
Stay as long as you need. Your journey may be long and uncertain, but I can see you take comfort here. If it clears your mind, it's the least I could do!
Star
Oh, thank you!
The Star decides to sit in the corner. watching Merluvlee's crystal ball rotate as it projects glitters and stars.
Star
It's so entrancing... I feel relaxed.
Merluvlee
It is very pretty.
The Star relaxes in the cool room, and eventually dozes off.
Merluvlee
...Oh? I guess they're all tuckered out.
Merluvlee carries the tired star and their packet out to a couch.
Star
Zzz...
The Star continues to nap, until Merlow awakens them.
Merlow
Hello?
The Star wakes up.
Star
Oh, umm... Hello? Is this a dream?
Merlow
No, this is my room! Merluvlee brought you here, apparently you got very comfy here and took a nap. She thinks you're adorable.
Star
Oh, that's sweet of her. Ans you are...?
Merlow
I'm Merlow, Merluvlee's youngee brother. I like to collect Star Pieces, and I often trade them our with others for Badges since I don't particularly find them useful.
Star
Pleased to make your acquaintance, then.
Merlow
I heard that you were assigned some kind of research mission by 'the' Princess Peach. How does it feel?
The Star pondered for a moment.
Star
Well, it kind of happenes so quickly for me. I'm just your average resident of Star Haven and because I decided to attend the event out of my own curiosity... Bam, a federally enfored and endorsed job within the Mushroom Kingdom.
Merlow
I imagine it must be stressful, then.
Star
Correct. I just want to go back to Star Haven and continue my research, but I'm feeling so nervous to even start...
Merlow
Well, I only just met you now; and I'm even more positive that my words will be less meaningful than a friend of yours, but I believe in you. I think you can do great things, like that survey.
Star
Are you sure?
Merlow
Of course! For what reason would I need to lie to encourage people?
Star
...Not sure? That's a bit specific, don't you think?
Merlow
Um... No. I just wanted to encourage you. Go, uh... What's your name again?
Star
Well, it's a little complicated and difficult to pronounce, keep that in mind. Regardless, my n-
Merluvlee walks back in.
Merluvlee
A shooting star landed in the yard again. Merlow, could you please help me out and clean up the mess?
Merlow
Okay, fine.
Merlow grabs a broom and walks out.
Star
Thank you for the hospitality. I suppose I should be heading out then.
Merluvlee
If you ever need my assistance, do not hesitate to stop by for a visit!
Star
Thank you!
The Star flies out of Merluvleee and Merlow's house.

Star Haven

The Star can be seen flying upwards to Star Haven.
Star
I know I can do it... I know I can do it!
The star makes their way to the top, and is exhausted.
Star
Phew... That's a lot of travelling.
Star
Greetings, have your travels made you weary?
Star
I guess so.
Star
Wait, you're the one who went off to see Peach's Castle over some commotion?
Star
Well, more accurately... An invite came up here somehow and I found it. I huess I got a little too curious...
Star
How did it go? What happened?
Star
Well, I guess I have a task... I'm supposed to find some, enemies... But I don't even know where these are!
Star
Oh? What's that?
The Star pulls out the packet.
Star
Star
Perhaps the Star Spirits will know? They are of great wisdom.
Star
Well, that's true. However... I feel my task is far too insignificant to be worthy of the Star Spirits attention!
Star
Don't be shy... I'm positive all of them can be willing to spare their time!
Star
Well, okay...
The Star floatds towards the Star Haven Sanctuary.
Star
Hello? Is anyone there?

???
Welcome...
The Star Spirits suddenly appear in the sanctuary. First Eldstar, then Mamar, followed by Skolar, tagged along by Muskular, Misstar after, with Klevar next, and finally Kalmar.
Eldstar
I do say, welcome...
Star
I have a problem... I hope I'm not a bother by using your knolwedge.
Klevar
Do not fret! We are happy to help those who are in need. Now, how can we help you?
Star
You see, below Star Haven lies the Mushroom Kingdom. Recently, the ruler of the Mushroom Kingdom, Princess Peach; has given out select atendees to engage in a task most daunting: to interview the local enemies. And the thing is, I don't recognize any of the enemies that were listed. It's incredibly confusing to me. Forgive my intrusion, but may you be of assistance?
Eldstar
...If I recall correctly, the only hostile forces near Star Haven were in Bowser's Castle, which has been destroyed. However, I believe you deserve to know the full picture of what had happened.
Skolar
It is with great pride to assist you. However, Star Haven has historically been a rather peaceful place. In recent memory, the largest disturbance of peace was when Bowser decided to steal the Star Rod and abuse it's power.
Misstar
Bowser had then used the power of the Star Rod to construct a castle beneath Princess Peach's Castle that would suspend it into the skies above. His plan was in motion, but it had failed.
Kalmar
Bowser was defeated by Mario. His castle addition had exploded. Within these castle walls, lay a variety of minions who were tasked to stop Mario in his tracks. Many of these enemies were defeated by Mario, while the rest were scattered by the explosion of the castle.
Mamar
The explosion had left many minions hurling towards the ground. With Bowser defeated, it was up to either fire, explosion, or impact that would end their lives Regardless of affiliation, some of these were rescued and recovered by nearby Stars.
Muskular
Some were lucky, having been caught by other members of Bowser, the others perished upon impact.
Star
Oh no! Even if they were under an awful leadership, I'm not sure if they deserved death.
Mamar
...And we agree with you. Some of these soliders that were recoveres by our kind were in fact, spared of their lifes being taken away.
Muskular
However, they were not immune to punishment. We decided to banish them to another realm! That will give them time to think of their misdeeds.
Star
Oh, um... Would these enemies happen to consist of a... Excuse me for a moment...
The Star pulls out a notebook.
Star
Well, would you happen to have recscued an Ember, Bony Beetle, Koopatrol, Dry Bones, Bombshell Bill, or Hammer Bros.?
Kalmar
We believe... We have a few.
Misstar
Be warned. These beasts were hostile upon capture and are unlikely to have changed within such a short amount of time.
Klevar
Well then, let us commence forth!
The Star Spirits use energy to conjure up a Bony Beetle, Hammer Bro, Koopatrol, and Dry Bones.
Skolar
All but one. We've trapped them in force fields that suspend them in the air, they cannot hurt you.
Star
Oh, they look so menacing...
Eldstar
They cannot harm you in their current state. You are free to speak to them.
Star
Oh, okay... I'm a little nervous.
Kalmar
You are safe. No need to worry in the slightest.
Skolar
Do not fear us. Approach us.
The Star slowly floats towards the center of the sanctuary to see the captive minions of Bowser.
Star
I think I will go from left to right.
Mamar
We believe this should satisfy you.
Klevar
For the time being, we will remain silent as to not distract you with the matters at hand.
Muskular
Good luck!
Star
Well, then... What do we have here?

Bony Beetle

The Star approaches the leftmost enemy, a Bony Beetle.
Star
What are you?
BonyBeetle
*rattle rattle*
Star
Not much of a talker, eh? Let's uss context clues!
The Star looks around at the enemies, then back to the Bony Beetle.
Star
So, the Hammer Bro holds a hammer... And the Koopatrol wear armor, as if he were to 'patrol'. Lastly, there's Dry Bones and a Bony Beetle. You kind of look like a Buzzy Beetle, therefore it's most logical to assume you are the Bony Beetle.
BonyBeetle
*malcontent rattling*
Star
Now, what's your HP?
BonyBeetle
*disgruntled rattling*
HammerBros
8 HP!
Star
What was that?
HammerBros
8 HP! Bony Beetles don't talk, because they don't have any vocal cords to speak with!
Star
Oh. Well, that's unfortunate. How am I supposed to continue this interview with a subject that's mute?
HammerBros
I don't think you can. But, if you have any other questions about my friend Orville, feel free to ask me!
BonyBeetle
*confused rattling*
Koopatrol
That's not his name.
Star
Who's Orville?
HammerBros
Why, the Buzzy Beetle of course! Cute name, eh?
Koopatrol
That's still not his name.
BonyBeetle
*upset rattling*
Star
So... It's a he? He has a name?
HammerBro
Yeah, Orville and I are friends! Ever since we were banished, me and him have been besties, keeping each other company.
Koopatrol
His name isn't Orville.
BonyBeetle
*annoyed rattling*
Star
Well... You two have a history, I'm not sure what else to ask then.
HammerBros
You could've asked what Orville's favorite color is. That's a fun one!
Koopatrol
Nobody here is named Orville.
Star
Um... Green?
BonyBeetle
*angry rattling*
HammerBros
AAAAANNNT! Wrong! It's pale orange!
Star
...What?
HammerBros
I bet you'd find me more interesting than him though. Go ahead, ask away! I'll blow your mind!
Star
Well, you're after the Koopatrol. So umm... Could you wait your turn?
HammerBros
Aw... Come on!
BonyBeetle
*enraged rattling*
Star
Sorry, that's how I'm ordering this. Sorry again.
The Star writes the details for the Bony Beetle in the packet.

Koopatrol

The Star turns to face the Koopatrol.
Star
Excuse me, could you introduce yourself?
Koopatrol
I am Koopatrol #73! I serve King Bowser! ...Or, at least I did at one point. After Bowser fell, I've tried to jump off the castle's walls in order to survive, and I did... Only to be banished to some strange dimension.
Star
Okay then, what's your max HP?
Koopatrol
8 HP. Nothing more, nothing less.
Star
What's your opinion on HP upgrades?
Koopatrol
I know of many who are able to use them effectively for survival. I was never gifted with that ability.
Star
Okay. Now, what is your opinion on badges?
Koopatrol
A badge can be a quite fine accessory and an asset to a battle.
HammerBros
Hey, did you know that you can't see the HP of Orville in dark places unless you have the Peekaboo badge?
Koopatrol
Silence. His name isn't Orville.
Star
Do you two have a history?
Koopatrol
Well, we never really interacted until we were "saved" by the residents of Star Haven. We were banished to the same dimebsion, and he's quite the bustle. He believes his only friend is the Bony Beetle, whom he has tastelessly christened as "Orville" despite it constantly headbutting and extracting it's spikes at the Hammer Bro.
Star
Koopatrol... Do you miss your army? Do you think Bowser had a good idea?
Koopatrol
I was a high ranking soldier. To say my loyalty was unwavering would be an understatement. I don't know where Bowser is now, if he even survived, but I will follow him once more if we reunite. Mu comrades would feel the same way. Regardless of our goals, we'd give our lives if it meant saving him. If Bowser has been killed by Mario, then that is my failure and biggest regret.
The Star hesitated.
Star
Oh, um... Wow. That's a lot of emotion, there! I can see you feel very strongly about Bowser.
Koopatrol
I can't imagine any other path I could have taken. It's my legacy.
Star
I see.
The Star wrires down the info about the Koopatrol in the packet.

Hammer Bros.

The Star faces the Hammer Bro.
Star
Okay, you're next.
HammerBros
Oh wow! I bet I'll have a lot of insight!
Star
What is your max HP?
HammerBros
12 HP!
Star
Okay, now what is your opinion on HP Upgrades?
HammerBros
Well, in my opinion? You don't need 'em. At all! Seriously, listen up. Your life will be so much easier if you could actually listen. In Toad Town, there's a dude known as Chet Rippo who can permanently decrease your HP, and if it's at 5, you will permanently be in a Danger state! With a combination of badges like Power Rush, Last Stand, Damage Dodge, Chill Out, and HP Drain, you'll be absolutely untouchable! The system's a joke, and owning it is the only way to get under it's skin!
Star
Oh, uh... Wow, that was a lot of information. I'm probably gonna save you some time by not asking you about if you like Badges or not, you're very clearly passionate about them.
HammerBros
You've got it right! I stand by my words.
Star
I see. Well, I guess I didn't have to say much at all.
HammerBros
Yeah! I think that you could just reduce how other people could barrage you with pointless questions, so why not keep saying everything what you think you are goinf go be asked? It's not as if you're gonna bore me with hundreds of pointless questions, eh?
BonyBeetle
*annoyed rattling*
HammerBros
Like, for instance, Orville! As you can see, he's giving me his iconic "shut up" rattles. That's my cue to stop talking. And I shall follow. Riggghhhhttttt.... Now.
Star
Okay, I think I'l do myself a favor and move on now.
The Star writes the info down about the Hammer Bro.

Dry Bones

The Star turned towards the last remaining member of Bowser's minions, the Dry Bones.
DryBones
...
Star
Okay, and that leaves one left... The Dry Bones.
HammerBros
Oh, you'd better be careful with him. He has abolitely no chill whatsoever. He will not hesitate to attack you no matter how safe or unsafe you feel. He has no morality. He has no grace. He is an absolite enigma whom communicating with is impossible. He, like Bony Beetle, is a skeleton. Skeletons don't talk.
DryBones
*rattling*
BonyBeetle
*offended rattling*
HammerBros
As you can see, he just did his "I want you dead", rattle. If you paid attention, you may have noticed that my good friend, Orville the Bony Beetle...
Koopatrol
Of all the times to do this... It's the time I'm forced to be stuck in a standing oosition where I can't move my limbs to cover my ear holes.
HammerBros
...Shook his shell from side to side twice, indicaying that he was offended. I don't know what the Dey Bones did exactly. He has no readings whatsoever.
Star
Oh... I guess I can see if I cam reason with him. What is your max HP, Dry Bones?
Dry Bones grabbed his left arm and attempted to throw it at the Star.
Koopatrol
He will not answer you. Our last annual records indicate that the average Max HP for a Dry Bones was 8 HP.
Star
Oh. Well, thank you for the info, Koopatrol. Out of everyone else today, you've been so polite despite your... Beliefs.
Koopatrol
I will take that as a compliment.
Star
I'm glad that in the circumstances you are in, you still managed to upkeep the image that Bowsee had trained you to be your absolute best at!
Koopatrol
Well, hmm...
The Koopatrol blushes in frustration.
HammerBros
Hey! I was loyal to Bowser too, and I was also working my way up to become a Koopatrol too! Apparently, Bowser hired me to be near the bottom of the labyrinths of the castle for some reason. Some of the other officers said that all of the "annoying, useless, and burdensome" members of the army were sent. Did Bowser not like me? Where could I have gone wrong?
DryBones
...!
The Dry Bones attempts to articulate a messgae using body language, but the Hammer Bro is unable to understand.
HammerBros
See? Now Dry Bros is doing one of his freaky ritual dances. What could he possibly be thinking of doing? I swear, every day that passes, he becomes ever so increasingly insufferable. Why me? What have I ever done to deserve this? Why would I be the one chosen to be looked down upon when I am among the only members of Bowser's Army to have the curtousey to make friendships and develop actual, useful social skills! I swear, the things I do in this world go unappreciated. I mean, why even-
The Hammer Bro continues to rant continuously about his mistreatment.
Star
Oh, um... Well, I can see that you've got a lot on your mind...? Is that the right thing to say?
DryBones
...?
The Star continues to write the section for the Dry Bones.
Star
...I really don't know how I can continue to flesh this out.
HammerBros
Uh... Yeah. Sorry for getting carried away.
Koopatrol
You could say that again.
BonyBeetle
*relieved rattle*
DryBones
...
Star
Well, I'd like to thank all of you for your time and responses! It's been a pleasure to learn about all of you, your backgrounds, and your opinions. Farewell!
The Star turns away from the enemies. The enemies look at each other woth concerned glances.

The Results

The Star floats away from the enemies. The Star Spirits fade back into visibility.
Eldstar
We have all seen your efforts, young one.
Mamar
We believe that you did a fine job for such a task with otherwise enormous pressure.
Skolar
Although we may not have been able to give the informatoon you needed, it appears you were able to persevere regardless.
Muskular
Those baddies have been welled up down in the other dimesnion. It's incredible to see how their outlooks have changed!
Misstar
However... Some have not learned much and do not understand the dire consequences that Bowser has brought upon this world.
Klevar
While it may seem disappointing to some, I for one, am pleased that progress has been made regardless.
Kalmar
And with that, we shall say goodbye to you, our young Star, as well as Bowser's former allies.
The Star Spirits once again use their power to transport the enemies back to the other dimension.
HammerBros
No wait, I haveso
The enemies vanish.
Skolar
Hoo... I believe that you are staisfied. You may feel free to leave.
Star
I am so grateful for what you all have done. I felt so nervous at first, but knowing that you all are so knowledgeable reassures me that all of us at Star Haven are absolutely justified in believing in you all!
Mamar
We are glad to have helped! Come again any time.
The Star floats away from the Star Haven Sanctuary and back to the town in Star Haven.

The Other Dimension

A very strange, indescribable space can be seen. The Bony Beetle, Dry Bomes, Koopatrol, and Hammer Bro appear in the dimension.
BonyBeetle
*distressed rattle*
DryBones
...
HammerBro
Aw man, and I came in thinking that the Star Spirits believed that I had redeemed myself and that they would let me go. I said it before and I'll say it again; the system is broken! Npbody can change my mind on that, and nobody should try.
Koopatrol
Sigh... Well, at least the colors are nice to look at here.
An Ember appears.
Ember
Greetings... I suppose you four have been banished here once again for your devilish misdeeds?
Koopatrol
Nope, the Star Spirits brought us back in force field bubbles just so some Star who was assigned some homework to do by Princess Peach for a survey could interview us.
Ember
Oh... That is significantly less interesting of a reason for you to have been brought back into the real world and back so quickly. I'm leaving.
The Ember floats away.
HammerBros
As if he'd be any different.
Koopatrol
Oh, you be quiet, already.
A Bombshell Bill flies by the four interviewees.
BombshellBill
Hey, I'm often ignored around here, I need things to do!
HammerBro
Nobody wants to speak to you, because you're too hasty and not on anybody else here's pages.
BombshellBill
Hey! It's not my fault the rest of you guys are so incredibly slow, both ohysically and in wit.
The Bombshell Bill blasts away.
Koopatrol
Well, if nothing here is going to change... Then so be it. Maybe everyone here will find their inner peace at last.
BonyBeetle
*content rattling*

Back in Star Haven

The Star floats back to the other star they were talking to earlier. Twink is present.
Star
Hey! So, how did the Star Spirits help you out? I saw a lot of lights and magic happening over there, I'm sure that I was right!
Star
...You know what? You were right. I thought that what I did over there was very worrhwhile. I felt scared at forst, but the gentle reassurance of the Star Spirits helped me regain my confidence, and rhey were even able to help me with my assignment. I am beyond relieved that I was able to do this. Thank you.
Twink
I heard that you were doing this for Princess Peach, right?
Star
Yes, why? Is that a problem?
Twink
Not at all! My name is Twink, I used to help out Princess Peach when she was kidnapped by Bowser. I relayed valuable intelligence that Bowser had to Mario that would help him progress on his quest. She's a bit foesty, but fair-weathered all the same.
Star
Oh! That is quite the story. I'm glad that you played a role in restoring peace to Star Haven, Twink!
Twink
Teehee! It's no big deal.
Star
I'm still so glad that this is done and over with.
Star
Yeah, but I have a question...
Star
Oh? And what would that be?
Star
When Bowser's Castle was in the process of exploding, the Star Spirits had rescued Princess Peach and Mario from harm. Bowser and Kammy Koopa did not recieve that treatment. Do you think they had... Y'know, passed from impact?
Twink
Unfortunately, I heard that both survived the fall! They apparently begun construction of a brand new castle that isn't underground other buildings with the capability of flight. So... Just a normal castle by Bowser.
Star
Oh, wow...
Star
He didn't deserve that.
Twink
That's just life sometimes. But tomorrow could have better news around the corner, so that balance of good and bad keeps me moving forward every day, leaving me curious about what in the world is bound to happen next.
Star
That's a rather optimistic point of view, all things considered.
Twink
It really isn't, or at least I don't think it is. Maybe others see it as special, but I always thought of life that way.
Star
Well, I commend your way of thinking. You may be small, but you always manage to find new ways to surprise me.
Twink
Hee hee! I understand how you feel.
The three Stars chat and chat ahout how the days went, and then life in general. It was enlightening to help the Star who was assigned to help Princess Peach with her enemy HP report. They now knew that the world was filled with surprises, and those surprises in themselves can often make the journey more fascinating than the destination.
END OF CHAPTER
Star Haven had not changed much since the report of the Star tasked to interview the "local enemies" had happened, but select few individuals have changed. The once cuatious and uncertain star had their world open up with the intrigue and mystique of other people. Twink, on the other hand, had been fweling something within him bottle up. What was this feeling? We may never know, but it had gone to show how seemingly insignificant of a task could change the trajectory of multiple people's lives. With one interviewer left, one shall wonder how the adventures of Minh T. had panned out.

Chapter 9: Toad Town Trivia

Written by ProblematicPeriwinklePlum.

An Average Day for Minh T.

Minh T. can be seen in her garden, where the door to Flower Fields was present.
MinhT
Well, things sure have changed around here.
Mih. T looks around the nearby area of Toad Town.
MinhT
Well, I suppose I coukd do something productive today.
Minh T. pulls out a packet, stamped by Princess Peach.
MinhT
If I get it done now, I'll have the rest of my time to myself. That's gonna work out fine.
Minh T. walks around Toad Town.

Chuck Quizmo

Minh T. walks around Toad Town.
MinhT
A little quiet today. That's no problem, though!
Minh T. walks by Merlon's Hut, and notices that Chuck Quizmo and Vanna T. are standing next to the building.
MinhT
Oh, it's those two.
Quizmo
Good afternoon, lady! Would you be interested in partaking in our quiz?
MinhT
A bit pressed for time myself, but sure!
Quizmo
Excellent! We'll keep it snappy ourselves, so no need to get in a twist.
VannaT
Vanna T. passes a paper to Quizmo, and reads it out loud.
Quizmo
Which Toad is NOT a member of the Three Beautiful Sisters?

Miss T.
Veri T.
Kris T.
MinhT
Well, I know of Miss T., but I don't know about the other two... I wanna say that the one who isn't a part is... Veri T?
Quizmo
And you are...
Quizmo
Correct!
VannaT
MinhT
Whew! That was some luck on my part.
Quizmo
Unfortunately, I've ran out of Star Pieces to give, so please accept this Super Shroom instead.
Chuck Quizmo's hat opens up, dispensing a Super Shroom.
MinhT
Thank you!
Quizmo
See you next time!
VannaT
Merlon opens the door from his hut.
Merlon
I sense a disturbance. Is everything alright?
MinhT
Um... Everything's fine!
Merlon
Oh. I must be mistaken. I am relieved.
Merlon goes back inside of his hut.
MinhT
That was weird.
Minh T. walks west, past Merlon's Hut and the Billboard.

Chan

Minh T. walks towards west of Toad Town and discovers the Toad Town Dojo.
MinhT
A dojo, hm? I think there's a few things I can do here.
Minh T. opens the door to the Toad Town Dojo.
MinhT
Hello?
Inside, Chan, Lee and the Master lay inside.
TheMaster
Welcome.
Lee
Are you here to fight? You don't look much of a fighter to me.
MinhT
That's correct. I'm not a fighter. However, I do wish to ask each of you here some battle-related questions! ...If you don't mind, of course.
Lee
That's a bit silly.
MinhT
I was asked to do so by Princess Peach herself.
TheMaster
I'll allow it. Afterwards, you may leave once you have the appropriate information that you require.
MinhT
Really? Thank you!
MinhT pulls out her study packet.
MinhT
Well, I suppose we could start by asking this little fella over here. What's your name?
Chan
Chan! I'm loyal to the Dojo. Work hard, fight hard. How can I be of service?
MinhT
What is your Max HP, Chan?
Chan
15.
MinhT
Okay, now what is your opinion on HP upgrades?
Chan
I could definetly use some. I can hardly even keep up with Lee over there.
MinhT
Lastly, what do you think of Badges?
Chan
Badges are useful, but I do think I could use a few more.
MinhT
That wraps up my questions for you!
Chan
Glad to help.
MinhT
Next up, Lee.

Lee

Minh T. faces towards Lee.
MinhT
First question, what is your Max HP?
Lee
20 HP.
MinhT
What is your opinion on HP upgrades?
Lee
I think they could be useful.
MinhT
Lastly, what do you think about badges?
Lee
I don't use them myself, but I can see the appeal of them.
MinhT
Alright, thank you for your answers.
Minh T. faces towards the Matser of the Toad Town Dojo.

The Master

MinhT
So, Master... What is your max HP?
TheMaster
In this form, 50 HP. However...
The Master powers himself up.
TheSuperMaster
...It can also be 75 HP or 99 HP if needed by a challenging disciple!
The Master returns to his normal state.
TheMaster
Phew... It's a bit exhausting to do that nowadays.
MinhT
Very interesting! Next, what do you think of HP Upgrades?
TheMaster
They have their place and purpose. HP may be impirtant, but also consider your defenses and attack. If you have low attack, you'll just linger. If you have low defense, you'll lose quicker. There's a pletohra of strategies and backgrounds to consider in combat.
MinhT
Lastly, what do you think about Badges?
TheMaster
Badges are very important and open up a wide field of opportunities. There are many badges that can help, such as All or Nothing, Double Dip, Power Bounce... The opportunities are endless and make many battles distinct from one another, and some may find them fun. Badges are worthy of respect.
MinhT
Well, thank you all for your insight! I'll be heading on my own way now.
TheMaster
No problem.
Chan
If you need to practice against anyone, I'll be here!
Lee
Bye.
Minh T. exits the Toad Town Dojo.

The Postmaster

Minh T. walks into the Toad Town Post Office.
MinhT
Hello there, is there any mail today for me?
Postmaster
Not that I'm aware of. Is there anything else that I can help you with today, ma'am?
MinhT
Well, you travel around Toad Town to deliver letters and parcels, do you know of a way to see... Dark Koopas? I hear they live in the Toad Town tunnels.
Postmaster
Well, I do know of a way... But I'm hesitant to tell you. For a young lady like you, it's better to stay up here instead of down there.
MinhT
I do unfortunately think it's necessary for my mission.
Postmaster
Your... Mission. Wait, I think- Oh, I remember now. You were supposed to do that survey for Princess Peach, weren't you?
MinhT
Precisely!
Postmaster
In that case, there is a green Warp Pipe that goes straight to the Toad Town tunnels in the center of Toad Town, marked with a sign that says "PRIVATE'. Don't say I didn't warn you if you get hurt somehow, though!
MinhT
Thanks for the info, you're a lifesaver.
Postmaster
Aaaanytime.
Minh T. walks out of the Toad Town Post Office.
Postmaster
I hope I didn't just make a big mistake right there.

Gloomba

Minh T. approaches a green Warp Pipe near the center of Toad Town. A wooden sign saying "PRIVATE" was posted next to it.
MinhT
Here goes nothing...
Minh T. heads down the Warp Pipe, and enters the Toad Town Tunnels.
MinhT
Blegh! I knew it'd smell down here, but I didn't expect it to be humid! Ugh!
Minh T. makes her way through the Toad Town Tunnels, jumping over ledges and over raw sewage.
MinhT
Now, first on my list is a Dark Koopa...
A Gloomba ambushes Minh T.
MinhT
Oh dear! I didn't mean to cause any trouble! Please spare me!
Gloomba
Well, I could spare you... If you get outta my territory! You know well that Paragloomba is using you as a spy!
MinhT
Paraglooma? Who's that?
Gloomba
Don't play dumb, miss! Just because your a girl doesn't mean your above the Toad Town Tunnels social heitriarchy!
MinhT
This is literally my first time here, and now I'm being confronted!?
Gloomba
Hmm... Now that I think about it, you really don't look familiar.
MinhT
It's my first time here. All I came here for was to ask all of the enemies here about their HP levels for a survey!
Gloomba
That's a bit sad. I pity you. I'll tell you what, I'll comply with your silly survey. How does that sound?
MinhT
That would help tremendously!
Gloomba
Okay. Ask away!
MinhT
What is your maximum HP?
Gloomba
7 HP.
MinhT
What is your opinion on HP upgrades?
Gloomba
I like them, even though I never knew about them until 7 seconds ago, which was the amount of time you asked me the question and the time between the words that I said to respond.
MinhT
Okay, now what about Badges? What's your opinion on Badges?
Gloomba
They're kinda silly. Can't a guy just be proud of who he is in this modern day?
MinhT
Okay then, that wraps up the questionnare. See ya.
Gloomba
Bye.
Minh T. walks away from the Gloomba.

Paragloomba

Minh T. is walking through Toad Town Tunnels, reviewing her survey packet from Princess Peach.
MinhT
Well, if I just saw a Gloomba, I don't think a Paragloomba would be far off.
Minh T. is walking around, and spots a Paragloomba perched on a block.
MinhT
Excuse me? I need to talk to you!
The Paragloomba hears Minh T. and charges toward her.
MinhT
Oh!
Minh T. ducks, dodging the Paragloomba's homing attack.
Paragloomba
If you're an escort for the Gloombas for us to give them the pipe tops, you can stick it and get out of here!
MinhT
I have no idea what you're even talking about.
Paragloomba
You heard me, be on your merry way. Gallavant off like nothing happened! Or I'll make sure something happens.
MinhT
Okay, fine! I give!
Minh T. retreats, walking through a hallway as an exit.
Paragloomba
Suckers. I love being me.

Dark Koopa

Minh T. continues to walk throigh Toad Town Tunnels and enters a room filled with spikes.
MinhT
This sure looks dangerous.
Minh T. notices a group of purple-shelled koopas with sunglasses and spiked collars.
MinhT
These must be the Dark Koopas!
The Dark Koopas hear Minh T.'s voice, and begin to head toward the direction it came from: Minh T. herself.
DarkKoopa
You gotta problem with us?
DarkKoopa
We could do this the easy way or the hard way. I myself, prefer the easy way because I am not in the mood to exert all of my energy just to beat up a puny, short Toad.
MinhT
I mean no harm! It feels like everyone here is out for blood. What is going on here?
DarkKoopa
It's a toigh place here. Trust no one. Backs will be stabbed. Bridges will be burned. It's all life.
MinhT
Well, would you mind making someone's life easier by answering a few short questions for me? I promise I'll only ask you 3 questions and then I will leave. You'll never ever see me again. Do we have a deal?
DarkKoopa
Tempting. Let me think about it...
One of the Dark Koopas ponders for a moment, and then he puts his hand out.
DarkKoopa
I believe we have a deal.
Minh T and the Dark Koopa shake hands.
MinhT
Glad that we could settle this like civilised people. Now then, what is your max HP?
DarkKoopa
8 HP!
MinhT
Okay. Now what do you think of HP upgrades?
DarkKoopa
They're okay, I guess.
MinhT
Lastly, what do you think about Badges?
DarkKoopa
Badges are rad, man!
MinhT
Okay, that wraps up my questions. I'll see you around.
DarkKoopa
Goodbye! Don't come crying to me later!
Minh T. walks through the room to the other side.
DarkParatroopa
What did I miss?
DarkKoopa
Everything, random Dark Paratroopa; absolutely everything.
DarkParatroopa
Oh...

Blooper

MinhT
A Blooper is supposed to be somewhere in the Toad Town Tunnels, but I don't see any!

Electro Blooper

MinhT
...And I don't see any Electro Bloopers either. How odd...

Super Blooper

MinhT
...The same can be said about Super Bloopers. Did they go... Extinct?

Baby Blooper

MinhT
No Baby Bloopers either. I think I overheard some Toads talking about giant Bloopers that roamed the sewers... And then I later heard that Mario defeated them? Did Mario unknowingly wipe out the Blooper population in the Toad Town Tunnels?

Exiting Toad Town Tunnels

Minh T. reaches the end of a hallway. At the end, a strange looking man can be seen.
RipCheato
Hey there! Would you like to buy something special for 64 coins?
MinhT
No thank you.
RipCheato
No worries, that's cool. If you ever change your mind, come back here!
Minh T. enters a uniform looking pipe, and is transported to an odd house with boxes inside.
MinhT
Where am I?
Minh T. walks out of the house, and finds out that the house is in Toad Town.
MinhT
Now that's very odd.
Minh T. reviews her packet of potential people to interview.
MinhT
Let's see... Gloomba; check. Dark Koopa; check. Paraglooma; nearly died. Every Blooper; was not there. The Dojo people; check. What else...?
ChetRippo
Hey there! Wanna adjust your levels? It usually costs 390 coins but just for you... It'll be 39 what do ya say?
MinhT
Pass.
ChetRippo
You're missing out!
Minh T. walks away.
MinhT
To the best of my knowledge, that was everyone... I guess I'm done!
Minh T. walks back to her garden and tends to it.
MinhT
When you get your troubles shifted away, you can really enjoy the smaller parts of life.
END OF CHAPTER
Minh T. continued to flower. And water. And grow. Her disgusting journey through the Toad Town Tunnels was something she did not wish to remember, but was glad that it was something that she was able to learn from.

Chapter 10: Coming All Together

Written by ProblematicPeriwinklePlum.

Back in Toad Town

The scene shows normal activity in Toad Town.
FiceT
It sure is a day today.
Russ T. passes by the gate to Forever Forest reading a notebook.
RussT
I don't think it's going to be just any day...
FiceT
Uh... What would make you think that?
RussT
It's been two weeks since the last summons to Priness Peach's Castle!
FiceT
Uh. Oh yeah...
RussT
That means that the HP Survey will reconvene with the results!
FiceT
Huh? Oh-Wait, it already has!? Gee, it felt like it was a week from now. Y'know, how time feels like it's dragging out and all.
RussT
Understandable. Regardless, you were hired to be a guard to be at Peach's Castle during the event, so I believe that you would be responsible for returning, no?
FiceT
I, uh... Well, let me check my letter archives...
Fice T. enters the hut next to the Toad Town and Forever Forest border he resides in and checks some papers.
FiceT
Hmm... Let's see... No, no... Oh?
Fice T. rereads the letter.
FiceT
Crikey! It is today!
Fice T. runs out and heads in the direcrion towards Peach's Castle.
RussT
Good luck!

Peach's Castle

Fice T. can be seen running towards Peach's Castle.
FiceT
Huff... Hoo... Nearly there!
Fice T. reaches the castle door.
ToadGuard
You're late! The return ceremony is about to commence in a few minutes!
FiceT
I know, I know! I'm sorry I'm a little behind?
ToadGuard
A "little" behind? Sorry, but the odds you'll be returning to guard duty at the castle hace just went from slim to none. Get in there.
FiceT
Sigh... At least I made an effort.
Fice T. enters Peach's Castle. Inside are Goombaria, Kolorado's Wife, Moustafa, Herbert, Brown Yoshi, Lakilulu, Herringway, the random Star, and Minh T. can all be seen anxiously waiting and chatting amongst themsleves loudly.
ToadGuard
Will you people please settle down? The Princess will arrive at any moment.
TrumpetToad
Doot?
ToadGuard
No, Parr T.; it's 'not' the time to play the serenade you've been working on for the Princess' entrance today.
TrumpetToad
Doo...
KoloradosWife
I didn't even know that guy 'could' sing, he just communicates throigh his trumpet for whatever reason.
Goombaria
I think it's obtuse of him!
TrumpetToad
Doot... DOOO!
Lakilulu
Oh no... Did we anger him?
TrumpetToad
Doot! Doot do doo do doot? DOOT! Doo? Dooo... Do do doot doo doot! DOOOT!
ToadGuard
Settle down, nobody thinks that you're intentionally trying to be annoying, Parr T. You can just be you.
TrumpetToad
Doo... Doo...
ToadGuard
Okay, just do your triumphant entrance piece when the Princess arrives? If you're good, I'l get you a Yoshi Cookie. Do we have a deal?
TrumpetToad
Doo!
ToadGuard
Good boy.
Moustafa
...What did I even just witness?
Herringway
A most interesting conundrum of communication.
Goombaria
I kinda love the drama here.
Footsteps could be heard behind the large door on the balcony.
ToadGuard
Oh dear, the Princess is already coming! Everyone, set your positions and keep up your best image!
The "diplomats" appointed by Princess Peach line up in a file, facing upwards to the balcony through the stairs. Soon, two Toads help open each door as Princess Peach enters the lobby.
TrumpetToad
Doot doo-doo doo!
FiceT
Ladies and gentlemen, way we present the fine and fair ruler of the Mushroom Kingdom... Princess Peach!
Princess Peach emerges from the other room, having a slightly different appearance.
PaperPeach
Hello, Mushroom Kingdom! I believe today was the follow up to our HP Survey, is it not?
The room falls silent, as the "diplomats" and Toad guards stare at Princess Peach.
PaperPeach
Is something wrong?
ToadGuard
Erm... Princess Peach, are you okay? You look different.
PaperPeach
Oh, me? I believe you've noticed that I've had a bit of a makeover. I decided to freshen myself up! Ever since the whole Bowser-flying-castle-being-kidnapped-and-Twink-was-there-too fiasco, I want to leave that all behind and have a new beginning of sorts. Do you understand now?
ToadGuard
I see... Understood!
PaperPeach
Now, where were we...?
Moustafa
We're back here to follow up on your HP Opinion Survey that you've tasked me, Goombaria, Kolorado's Wife, Herbert, Brown Yoshi, Lakilulu, Herringway, the random Star I can't remember the name of, and Minh T to do.
PaperPeach
Oh! Yes, I'm sorry for losing track! Regardless, I believe I should collect the results of the survey. Anyways, when I call your name, please come up to me and we'll review your work. With that being said? I would like Goombaria to turn in her work.
Goombaria
Huh? Me?
PaperPeach
Yes, you! Don't be so shy, now.
Goombaria
Oh, okay...
Goombaria walks up the stairs cautiously towards Princess Peach.

Goombaria's Results

Goombaria approaches Princess Peach, with her packet underneath her foot.
PaperPeach
May I have the packet now?
Goombaria
Of course!
Goombaria lifts her foot up toward Princess Peach, where she grabs the packet from Goombaria's foot. She opens the packet and begins reviewing the papers inside of it.
PaperPeach
Hmm... Yes... Oh? Ah...
Goombaria
Is something wrong?
Peach continues to read.
PaperPeach
Goombaria, this is a nice result! You managed to interview every enemy that I've listed on your task sheet, and you recorded evry answer! You did a great job!
Goombaria
Oh wow! Umm... Thanks!
PaperPeach
As a reward for your efforts, I will provide you with this.
Princess Peach kneels down and grabs a pin from the side of her dress. She attatches the pin to Goombaria's bow on the right side, which droops from the weight of the pin.
Goombaria
Oh... Thank you! ...What is it?
PaperPeach
It's a pin. This pin is an honorary symbol of your service to the Mushroom Kingdom as an intelligence agent! You may feel free to show it off to anybody and everyone, or nobody at all. The choice is yours.
Goombaria
Thank you so much! I'd kiss you, but that would be so weird.
PaperPeach
I understand, and please refrain from that. Regardless, you may go home now. And here is one last thank you from me before you head out!
Princess Peach smooches Goombaria on the forehead.
Goombaria
Eugh! Oh... Huh. Now I know what if feels like to be kissed by a girl. I kind of like it...Thanks!
Goombaria walks down the stairs and head out of the door.
Herbert
Lucky...
PaperPeach
Next up, I would like Kolorado's Wife to come up to me, please.
KoloradosWife
Oh dear... Here we go. Been anxious about this for days now.
Lakilulu
You can do it!
KoloradosWife
You're right, no way out now.
Kolorado's Wife begins to step up the stairs to Peach on the balcony.

Kolorado's Wife's Results

Kolorado's Wife approaches Princess Peach.
PaperPeach
Kolorado's Wife, may I have your survey packet?
KoloradosWife
Sure.
Kolorado's Wife gives Peach the packet.
PaperPeach
Alright, let's see... Koopa Troopa... Fuzzy... Bob-omb... Paratroopa... This seems to be all up to snuff. Good job!
Peach grabs a pin from a satchel and places it on Kolorado's Wife's handkerchief.
KoloradosWife
Oh, I guess I've done a good job after all!
PaperPeach
You sure did.
KoloradosWife
Okay, now what?
PaperPeach
You can go now.
KoloradosWife
Okay, thank you!
Kolorado's Wife walks down the stairs.
Herringway
She's always referred to as "Kolorado's Wife", does she even have a name?
Star
Hey!
KoloradosWife
Well, I do have a nam-
PaperPeach
I would like to call up... Moustafa next.
Goombaria
Oh wow, your name reveal was cut off by someone else speaking as to intentionally keep the lack of an actual name more frustrating. How convenient for you!
Moustafa
Best I go, then.
Moustafa walks up the stars to the balcony with Peach.

Moustafa's Results

Moustafa walks up the stairs to Princess Peach.
PaperPeach
Now, Moustafa, may I have your survey packet.
Moustafa
Of course!
Moustafa gives Peach the packet.
PaperPeach
Okay, here we go... Pokey, Buzzy Beetle, Bandit, Swooper, Chomp... Tutankoopa? Moustafa, did you manage to interview a 'boss'?
Moustafa
Sure did!
PaperPeach
That is nothing short of impressive, wow! You absolutely deserve this!
Princess Peach attatches a pin to Moustafa's keffiyeh.
Moustafa
Thank you, princess.
Moustafa walks back doen the stairs.
She doesn't know I fudged some numbers. Heh.
Herbert
What was that?
Moustafa
Oh, nothing. Just talking to myself. Anyways, you should be up next.
Herbert
Oh yeah.
PaperPeach
Next up, I would like to call Herbert of Gusty Gulch to me.
KoloradosWife
That's your cue.
Herbert
It sure is.
Herbert floats up the stairs to Princess Peach.

Herbert's Results

Herbert floats up to Peach and holds his survey packet.
PaperPeach
May I have your packet?
Herbert
Okay.
Herbert gives Peach the survey packet.
PaperPeach
Let's see...
Princess Peach carefully reviews the packet.
PaperPeach
Hmm... Hyper Cleft, Hyper Goomba... Bzzap!... Tubba Blubba? Tubba Blubba's Heart? Ooh, looks like we've had yet another dedicated helper on our hands!
Herbert
Oh, it was nothing. I just needed a little push in the right direction by Lady Bow, out of anyone.
PaperPeach
Hehe! Mario always told me that she was quite the character. Nice to see that she was of assistance to you on your little writing exercise.
Herbert
Well, it was more than just Lady Bow, Tubba Blubba himself was surprisingly tame, which caught me off guard. I knew he promised not to eat any more of us ghosts, but he's really changed.
PaperPeach
Well, I'm glad to hear about that you had some of your perspectives challenged. Now, I believe that it would only be appropriate to give you my pin of honor to you, Herbert.
Herbert
Woohoo! No need to pierce it through my pass through body, just hand it to me and I'll take care of the rest.
Princess Peach gives Herbert the pin.
Herbert
Awesome, I am. I, am awesome. I am awesome!
Herbert happily floats down the stairs.
Lakilulu
Wow, look at you, Herbert! I'd swear as if you had won the Happy Lucky Lottery or something.
Herbert
Recognition is all I've wanted... And I've got it! Oh, what a glorious day it is to be me indeed!
Star
Lucky you.
Goombaria
Hey, don't hog all of the spotlight! Leave some for the rest, okay?
Herbert
There's lots of love to go around. I'm sure there will be someone here happier than even I am right now.
PaperPeach
Alright, may Brown Yoshi please come up to me next?
BrownYoshi
Alright, looks like I'm next up. See you guys soon.
MinhT
And good luck to you as well!
BrownYoshiPanic
Um... Yeah.
Brown Yoshi walks up the stairs to Princess Peach.

Brown Yoshi's Results

Brown Yoshi reaches Princess Peach.
PaperPeach
Okay, Brown Yoshi. May I have your survey packet?
BrownYoshiPanic
Well... You see... It was destroyed.
PaperPeach
What? What happened?
BrownYoshiPanic
It's a bit if a long story, but basically, me and the Village Leader of Lavalava Island had a falling out over the survey because the Village Leader believed that I was betraying him, and he destroyed my packet. I was only able to fill out information regarding Jungle Fuzzies, M. Bushes, and Spear Guys.
PaperPeach
I see. These unfortunate circumstances were indeed unfounded, but I have heard of your valiant efforts to rescue not only your own kind, the Yoshis, but a variety of inhabitants of Lavalava Island.
BrownYoshi
Oh? Well, that's kind of true...
PaperPeach
Your efforts to help out others in a time of dire need was nothing of spectacular to me. Regardless of your inability to complete the survey, you're absolutely deserving of the title.
BrownYoshi
Well, thank you!
Princess Peach grabs a pin and tries to find a piece of clothing to put on Brown Yoshi, but cannot find anything.
PaperPeach
Um... Would it be okay if I could simply hand the pin to you?
BrownYoshi
I see no problem with that.
Princess Peach gives Brown Yoshi the pin.
BrownYoshi
I'll treasure it for the rest of my life. Thank you.
PaperPeach
You're welcome!
Brown Yoshi walks down the stairs once more.
KoloradosWife
Oh, no wonder why you looked so glum.
MinhT
I've heard of Brown Yoshi's exploits, although I had no idea it cost him the survey.

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Lakilulu's Results

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Herringway's Results

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Star's Results

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Minh T.'s Results

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Outside the Castle Again

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Peach's Study

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Do you want more adventures? Check out the deleted scenes!