Stolen Hope - A Super Mario Bros Fanfic

Chapter 7 - All or Nothing

Author's Note

Hey guys!

So turns out I have depression..lol. I lost complete motivation for this story when I was so close to finishing T-T 

I've officially picked this up again after discussing old fanfics with @Issy2329 and remembering this exists..I had multiple drafts prepared and everything too, so let's hope I can finally get this done! (albeit, a little late)

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The sun began to rise, shutting the darkness that consumed the no-longer-night skies. Luigi awoke with a start, his surroundings coming into his vision. The duo had made great strides in their journey to Bowser's Castle, and had decided to sleep when the sun had began to set. 

They had set up camp for the night among the thinning out trees, a small makeshift fire lay burnt out in front of the tired plumber. He was positioned against a tree, which he leaned up from and began to stretch their arms out behind him. 

Looking around, he realised the absence of a bright shade of pink from the tree to his right. A little startled, Luigi stood up, stretching his back before taking a glimpse of his surroundings. Taking a few steps past his 'bed', the proceeded to startle upon a hand being placed on his shoulder. 

"Shhh, there's a koopa patrol running through the border up ahead, lets wait it out, they seem to be close to leaving." A voice stated from behind.

Luigi jumped from the touch, and turned his head swiftly to find Peach awaiting him. Instantly calming down, he turned to face her. "Thank you, good call," he replied. "Glad to see you're awake."

"You too. Did you sleep alright?" She asked with a whispered concern.

"..As good as you really can when your brother is in danger," he replied, guilt lingering in his tone. Determination began to course through his veins. "You ready to do this?"

"Ready as I'll ever be," she replied, the two chuckling lightly. "In all honesty though, I...I'm scared Luigi...What if this doesn't end well? What if-" 

"I understand where your coming from, trust me," Luigi began to reply with a soft smile. "But 'what ifs' are gonna get you lost in your thoughts. Right now, we need to focus on what's next, alright? We can do this!" He stated triumphantly.

"..You're right, thanks Luigi." She replied back, sharing the plumber's smile and gratitude for not being in this alone.

"Now, let's put our plan into action"

Luigi pulled out the mini mushroom from his pocket, the two meeting eyes once more.

"All or nothing?" Luigi asked in a confident tone, reaching out his hand.

"All or nothing" Peach answered, the two grasping hands into a handshake.

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After the patrol had left, the two continued their trek, walking past the border and continuing onto enemy territory.

Approaching the grand doors of the castle the two braced themselves for what was to come. The large, deafening creak was enough to send a deep chill down the princess's spine, feeling Luigi shudder as well, from his place atop her crown. 

As the doors opened, the castle's lobby came into view, a large and regal setting. The dark grey brick walls towered far above the two's heads. Red banners hung from the walls, a familiar Koopa King's face embellished on each, alongside the medieval-like torches, bringing dim yet effective lighting to the castle. Two sets of parallel staircases, alongside another leading downwards could be seen further down the path, with different doors along the left and right walls which led to even more areas of the castle. It was as if the wretched castle was designed to confuse intruders.