Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The war is over.

The news came in the dead of night, delivered by a breathless Lakitu to a Toad guard stationed just outside the castle walls. It was, in a word, a double edged sword- as it carried both reason to celebrate and reason to mourn. Once the frantic guard passed the information along, the news spread like wildfire amongst the citizens of the Mushroom Kingdom.

The war is over.

King Toadstool is dead.

Who would have guessed that the news many of them had been waiting for would come with one they could never have imagined? Although the long war with the Koopa Kingdom had finally come to an end..it came at the cost of their beloved ruler.

Needless to say the emotions of the Kingdom’s denizens was in turmoil, and in desperate need of someone to lead them.

That duty fell to Toadsworth, the royal family’s ever loyal advisor. The news made his heart ache for multiple reasons. One, the King had been a good friend to him during the many years he had served, and the two shared a bond that could not be understated. Two…

It left Toadsworth with the responsibility of caring not just for the kingdom, but for the King’s young daughter as well. The older Toad silently thanked the Star Spirits above that the princess was still too young to understand what was going on for now, but that didn’t make his job any less easier.

First things first...deal with the matter at hand. He turned his attention to the two figures sat across from him. Queen Bean, of the Beanbean Kingdom, and her own advisor, Lady Lima were both stone faced and silent as he regarded them. The war against the Koopa Kingdom had not just been on their homefront. In his hands, he held a letter, penned in familiar script- the last words of his King. A request.

“This is…risky.” He said finally.

“No less so than what we’ve been doing for the last ten years.” Queen Been replied, her normally jolly demeanor all but gone. “It was his request, Toadsworth.”

“I understand that- and far be it for me to question my king’s wishes but…” He removed his glasses, thinking hard about his next words. “Is this truly what it’s come to?”

“It’s the only way to prevent another war of this scale.” Lady Lima interjected smoothly.

Was it? Toadsworth was inclined to disagree, but as he looked down at the letter again he merely sighed. ‘Where is the…where is it now?”

“I have a squad of soldiers guarding it while the other half is being delivered to Castle Town as we speak.” Queen Bean replied. 

Toadsworth nodded. “No time to waste then.” 

He motioned to a Toad guard who approached dutifully. “Gather a small group and meet the Bean soldiers outside the gate to receive a package. This must be done with the utmost discretion, understood?”

“Right away Mr. Toadsworth, sir!” The Toad scampered off to fulfill his orders. Toadsworth turned his attention back to the Beanish ladies. 

“You are welcome to stay here for the night, I understand you have made a very long journey already.”

“Thank you, but I wish to return home as quickly as possible.” Queen Bean waved her hand. “I would very much like to see my son sooner rather than later.”

“Ah young Prince Peasley- how is he?”

“Growing bigger by the day- so his nannies tell me.” Queen Bean sighed. “If there is one good thing to come from all this, it’s that I will be able to see him grow up with my own eyes.”

Toadsworth hummed in agreement, thinking of the father who would now never get to see his daughter again. Queen Bean seemed to realize this and offered him a wan smile. “I realize I am...incredibly lucky in that regard.”

Toadsworth sighed, clasping his hands together. “The princess…I’m afraid we’ve only added more to her plate for the future.”

“I understand. Things will be…very different. To say the least.”

“Indeed.”

“Know that the Mushroom Kingdom will always have allies in the Beanbean Kingdom.” The woman leaned forward earnestly. “Please do not hesitate to call upon us for anything, Toadsworth.”

“Your kindness is always appreciated, my lady.” Toadsworth replied sincerely. In spite of everything, he was grateful to them. They did not have to share in this burden and yet…

“My queen, we should probably hasten our departure.” Lady Lima finally interjected after a moment. “There is much to take care of back on our own soil.”

“I agree, Lady Lima.” Queen Bean made to stand. Toadsworth followed, giving both women a short bow.

“I shall take my leave then.”He said, moving towards the door.

“Toadsworth?” 

The steward paused, turning to look at the Queen. Her face was grim, yet there was a spark of something else in her eyes. Determination perhaps.

“Good luck.”     

Chapter Text

The sun rose the next morning, oblivious to the secrets that had been kept under the cover of darkness. Shops opened, adults headed off to work, children were sent to school. For the everyman, life simply went on.

And Princess Peach Toadstool lay crying on her bed.

Toadsworth had given her the news at breakfast, and she staunchly refused to believe it. She couldn’t .

It didn’t make any sense. It wasn’t fair . The soldiers had come home. 

Why couldn’t her Papa?

She rolled over onto her back, feeling a wave of exhaustion creep over her. How long had she been crying? It felt like forever, she was so tired. Her eyes traced the intricate designs of her ceiling, going over the morning’s events again and again. At first, she thought Toadsworth was joking, but Toadsworth never joked. He explained twice, in that stupid calm voice that all adults spoke to her with- like she was too dumb…to young to understand. She was almost six years old for Stars’ sake!

Papa never talked to her like that, he always made her feel included, important. Heard.

She sat up, running her hand across the bedspread and thinking. No, there was no way her papa could be gone. He was just…lost.

Lost…

Peach sat up straighter. If her papa was lost, that meant he could be found! They just needed someone to look for him!

Maybe…

Maybe she could find him.

That would definitely prove to Toadsworth and... everyone that she wasn’t just a little girl.

It couldn’t be that hard, right?

She slid off the bed, running to her closet in search of an appropriate travel bag. She might be gone for days and days- she would need to bring things with her. After some rummaging, she emerged with a shoulder bag that she normally took on long vacations. 

Now what to pack?

Clothes. Peach selected a couple of her more casual dresses and worked to pull them off the hangers before stuffing them inside the bag. She also picked up her traveling boots. 

A flashlight. Very important- nighttime could get very dark after all.

Paper and markers. For writing letters to let everyone know she was okay.

Her favorite stuffed toy- a well loved thing shaped like a Luma. Couldn’t go anywhere without that.

Snacks? Maybe she could sneak some from the kitchen when Lepiota wasn’t looking-

Should she leave a note? Probably- just in case Toadsworth sent someone to look for her. Peach took one sheet of drawing paper and her favorite pink marker before writing out an explanation in her best handwriting.

Toadsworth,

I’ve gone to look for Papa. I will be back soon.

Peach

Peach set the note on her bed and crammed everything into her little bag, stuffing it full until it could barely zip shut. She threw it over her shoulder, slipped her feet into her traveling boots and crept to the bedroom door. Peeking out, she could not see any sign of servants or steward and waited for a few minutes to make sure.

Satisfied that no one was going to stop her, Peach gently closed her door, crossing the carpeted hall quickly and dashing down the staircase towards the main hall. She kept glancing back, making sure she wasn’t being followed-

…and promptly ran right into someone.

Or, more specifically, two someones. 

She rammed right through them, knocking them off balance and sending all three into a pile on the carpet. There was a squeal of surprise, but whether it came from her or her unfortunate victims, Peach wasn't sure. Her bag fell off her shoulder, spilling her supplies all across the hall with loud clattering sounds. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw a flash of red. Toads.

No no no! Had she gotten caught already ?

Frantic, Peach struggled to get to her feet, her long skirt twisting around her legs and making it difficult to regain balance. The Toads remained piled in a heap, one of them groaning softly. Peach stumbled back, finally untangling her legs as one of them sat up.

It...wasn't a Toad.

The very human boy rubbed his head, face scrunched up in pain. He looked about her age wearing an oversized romper and red sweater. A hat of the same color sat askew on top of his curly brown hair and he frowned at her.

"You should watch where you're going!" He said accusingly.

Peach blinked in surprise. No one had ever spoken to her like that in her entire life- usually it was all "Right away my princess" or "I beg your pardon your highness." She didn't quite know how to feel about it but there was a spark of indignation inside her.

"Maybe you should watch where you're going." She snapped back. 

The boy opened his mouth to retort but was interrupted by a whimper from his companion. Instantly his focus shifted. "Weegee? You okay?"

"Weegee" sat up, sniffling. He looked almost identical to the other boy, with the exception of his sweater and hat being green instead of red. "Hit my head." He mumbled. 

The boy in red peered at him carefully, hands reaching up to fix his friend's hat. "You're okay." He reassured him matter-of-factly, even though to Peach he really didn't have any way of knowing. However this seemed to reassure the green kid and he wiped his sleeve across his eyes before finally noticing Peach attempting to pick up the scattered contents of her bag. "Oh-! H-hi."

Peach stood there awkwardly, clutching the flashlight in her hands. "Um...hi?"

"Are you going somewhere?" He asked, his head tilting to look at her bag. Peach instinctively pulled it closer to her, lifting her chin defiantly.

"I'm going to find my Papa."

"Where did he go?" The red boy inquired, getting to his feet.

"The Darklands."

The boy's eyes widened and his companion let out a small gasp. "Why did he go there??" 

"He was doing important things." Peach recalled what Toadsworth had told her. "But he hasn't come back, so I'm gonna go find him."

"All by yourself?" Red pressed. Peach nodded.

"You must be really brave." Green added quietly.

A warm feeling spread through her chest at the compliment. Red was looking at her curiously. He reached up and fixed his hat. "We'll go with you!"

"What?" Both Peach and Green replied, although the boy's voice was much more shrill than hers.

"Yeah, Weegee and me, we're good at finding things!" Red puffed up his chest proudly. "We can help you find your Papa!"

Weegee didn't look so certain, but he got to his feet anyway, nodding. "Y-Yeah!"

Peach looked back and forth between the two boys, thinking. On one hand, she was determined to go alone- to prove she could take care of herself. 

Then again, these two boys were offering to help her and she didn't even know them. 

Without thinking about it too much, Peach nodded her head. "Okay."

"Awesome!" Red grinned, revealing missing front teeth. "I'm Mario, and this is my brother Luigi."

She grinned back, Mario's unbridled excitement infecting her too. "I'm Peach."

“Well come on then!” Mario bent down and started picking up some of the spilled items. “Do you know how far away it is?”

Peach thought about it. “Pretty far.” She decided.

“Do you have a map?” Luigi questioned. 

“Oh.” Peach knew she’d forgotten something. “Um…no.” A faint memory cropped up in her mind and she gasped aloud. “But there’s one in the council room! A really big one!”

“Let’s go check it out!” Mario decided. ‘Lead the way!”

He handed her the rest of her things and she quickly stuffed them back into the bag, grasping it more firmly this time. “This way-” She declared and  moved past the brothers down the hallway they had just come from. They each fell into step on either side of her, Mario occasionally testing doors to see if any were unlocked. After not seeing much of anything, he piped up.

“What’s a council room look like?”

‘It’s a big room with lots of chairs and a looong table.” Peach explained, drawing out the word for emphasis. “It’s where adults sit and talk about stuff.”

“Like a dining room?” Luigi asked

“Kinda, except there’s no food.”

“What’s the point of the table then?” Mario sounded genuinely confused.

Peach giggled. “I don’t know!”

“...Adults are weird.” Luigi decided.

Peach was inclined to agree and she opened her mouth to say so before stopping before a large set of wooden doors “Oh-! This is it!” Standing up on her tiptoes, she grabbed one of the large knobs and gave it a turn- to everyone’s delight, the door swung open easily. After making sure the room was actually empty, Peach pushed the door open the rest of the way.

The council room was indeed, as simple as she had explained it- a large table surrounded by several chairs of varying sizes. Banners with the Mushroom Kingdom crest lined the walls on either side, and cross from them, hanging on the farthest wall- was the map. It covered the entire surface, depicting the lands of the Mushroom, Beanbean, and Koopa Kingdoms in great detail.

“That is a big map.” Luigi commented. Mario made a face.

“How’re we supposed to carry it?”

Peach set down her backpack, rummaging for a moment. “We can’t.” She pulled out the paper and markers. “But we can copy down the important parts! Here-” She passed a sheet to Mario and one to Luigi. “If we each pick a section we can combine them and have our own smaller map!”

“Ohhh!” Mario eagerly grabbed a marker- red, while his brother selected a green one. “That’s pretty smart.” 

Peach felt that warm feeling in her chest again.

The three of them climbed into chairs and got to work. Peach began drawing the outline of the Mushroom Kingdom with her favorite pink marker.

“Hey Weegee what part are you doing?” Mario asked.

“Um…Grit.. Gr-it-sy Des-ert .” Luigi sounded out the name slowly.

“Aw man- I started with that!” Mario flipped his paper over. “I’ll do the rest of that part then.” He gestured to the larger area of land that made up the Darklands. 

For a while, all was calm as they focused intently on their chosen tasks. Mario occasionally made comments about how great Luigi’s drawing was compared to his own, which Peach noticed made the boy swell with pride. He spent little time on his own section, choosing instead to climb up onto the table and pass Luigi specific colors when he asked for them 

“You think we’ll run into any Koopas?” Mario asked suddenly. Luigi looked up in alarm. Peach frowned.

“I dunno…I mean, it is the Darklands.”

“Oh I hope not.” Luigi whimpered, pulling his hat down over his eyes. ‘I’ve heard bad things about those guys.”

“Ah, I’m not afraid of 'em!” Mario stood up on the table, punching the air. “They lost to us already, I bet they’re afraid of the Mushroom Kingdom now.”

“I dunno, Mario…” Luigi peered out from under his cap. “ I’m still afraid.”

Mario slid off the table, falling right into Luigi’s lap and sending several markers rolling across the floor. “Don’t worry Weegee! I’ll protect you!”

Luigi wrapped his arms around his brother “Are you afraid, Peach?”

“No.” And it was true, Peach wasn’t afraid of the Koopas.

No, what she was really afraid of, was never seeing her father again. Peach looked down at her map and felt her insides twist with longing. She missed him so much.

He couldn’t be gone.

He couldn’t .

“Peach?!”

She didn’t realize she was crying until Mario said her name with some alarm. She hastily wiped her eyes, noticing with some dismay that some of her tears had landed on her drawing. She attempted to wipe them off with her hand, but only succeeded in making a large streak of color across her map.

“What’s wrong?”

“I-”

“Princess Toadstool!”

The sound of her full legal title caused Peach to yelp and subconsciously straighten up. Luigi grabbed onto his brother, eyes wide with fear. Peach turned to see a very familiar Toad making his way into the room, his spotted brown cap sticking out against the white walls.

Toadsworth.

 “Aw man.” She heard Mario mutter under his breath as her steward approached. The older Toad surveyed the scene carefully, eyes flickering between Peach, the boys, and the scattered mess of papers and markers.

“What is the meaning of this?” He demanded.

Peach folded her arms, ready to argue her case, but Mario jumped in, almost literally.

“We’re going on an adventure!”

Toadsworth’s eyebrows shot up in surprise, but he kept his attention on her. “Is that so?”

 “I’m going to the Darklands.” Peach said, and was only slightly amused by the way Toadsworth’s eyes practically popped out of his head.

“I beg your pardon? Princess, where on earth did you get such an idea?” His gaze switched to Mario and Luigi, and Peach could see him already pointing the blame at them.

Not on her watch.

“It was my idea!” She snapped. ‘I’m going to find Papa!”

Instantly, Toadsworth deflated. He opened and closed his mouth a few times, trying to find words. He sighed, all hostility gone.

“...I see.”

There was an awkward silence as nobody moved to say anything for a long time. Luigi maintained his death grip on Mario, clearly awaiting some inevitable punishment. 

After some time, Toadsworth cleared his throat. “Let’s get this mess cleaned up shall we? And then we shall discuss what to do next.”

“But-!” Toadsworth gave her another look and Peach angrily glared at the floor.

“And as for you boys-”

Luigi flinched. Mario narrowed his eyes, hugging his brother close. He looked like he was daring Toadsworth to say something.

“...I’ll let your parents decide what to do.”

The call to Mario and Luigi’s mother was made promptly as the three of them glumly cleaned up the papers and markers. Once he was satisfied with their work, Toadsworth marched them to the main hall to wait. They stood around in silence for a long while before Mario huffed.

“So…you’re the princess?”

Peach looked up, startled. “Yeah-?”

He smirked a little. “You sure don’t act like one.”

Peach folded her arms, not sure if she should be offended or not. “Is that bad?”

He gave her that mischievous grin again. “I think it’s pretty great.”

" Grazie Dio! "

Everyone's attention turned to the frantic woman rushing headlong towards them. Both Mario and Luigi exchanged glances as she pulled them into her arms in clear relief.

"My boys! I have been looking everywhere for you!" She looked them up and down, worry mixing with a look of stern disappointment- very similar to the look Toadsworth had given Peach earlier. "You know better than to be running off!"

"Sorry Mama." The boys mumbled in return, their mischievous spirits gone. Even Mario looked properly chastised. Their mother tutted as she pulled them in for another hug, speaking to them in another language, albeit much gentler this time. Peach was able to get a good look at her, noting that she had the same curly brown hair they did, but her eyes were a deep brown. After a moment or two more of fussing over them, their mother stood, taking both boys by the hands

"Thank you, Mr. Toadsworth, for finding them." 

Toadsworth nodded curtly. "You should know Ms-"

"Elena."

"...Ms. Elena, that, had your boys been older, they would have been charged with trespassing." Ms. Elena paled slightly as Toadsworth continued. "...However I know well the wanderlust of youth. I am just glad there were no incidents."

"As am I." Elena nodded, looking relieved. "I apologize on my sons' behalf, they are very....adventurous." Then, she looked down at the two boys. "What do we say?"

"....Sorry Mr. Toadsworth."

"Sorry...."

Toadsworth nodded at them both. Elena turned, guiding Mario and Luigi away from the door. Mario turned his head, giving Peach a half-hearted goodbye wave with his free hand.

This little gesture made Peach's heart hurt. Here were two people who didn't care about her status as a princess, who were willing to go with her on an adventure they had no real connection to, and now they were being sent away? No- she had to do something, and fast, if she wanted to keep her new friends.

"Wait!"

Ms. Elena stopped, turning her head slightly at Peach's outburst. Toadsworth looked properly shocked as well, opening his mouth to give her, undeniably, another lecture, but Peach was quicker. She grabbed Toadsworth's vest, making sure to put on her best pleading face.

"Can they come back tomorrow? Please ?"

The question threw everyone off guard. Ms. Elena gasped while both Mario and Luigi exchanged excited grins. Toadsworth stared at her for a moment, unsure of what to say.

"Princess-" he started.

"Please Toadsworth! We'll be good...promise! And we'll stay right here in the castle so you don't have to worry!"

"Well...I-" Toadsworth glanced at Ms. Elena and her boys before taking in the pleading princess. "I suppose if Ms. Elena says it's alright-"

Instantly, the boys piped up, grasping their mother's hands and bouncing up and down.

"Please, Mama can't we?"

" Per favore, Mama!"

Elena smiled slightly. "Well…do you promise to be on your best behaviors?"

"Yes!"

"And listen to what Mr. Toadsworth tells you?"

"Yes yes! Triple yes!"

The adults exchanged glances as their respective charges almost quite literally held their breaths in anticipation for the answer.

"It is alright with me." Elena said finally.

The children erupted into cheers, rushing towards each other in excitement. Manners forgotten, Peach found herself bouncing up and down with the two brothers until their guardians pulled them apart again.

Toadsworth cleared his throat. “We can set up a playdate, shall we say, tomorrow afternoon?”

“That’s just fine.” Ms. Elena grabbed both boys’ hands again. “Say goodbye…and thank you to the Princess.” She instructed them.

“Bye Princess!” Mario called

“Thank you!” Luigi added.

Peach waved estatically, the trials of the day forgotten in the prospect of seeing her new friends again. As she waved goodbye to Mario and Luigi (for now), she failed to notice Toadsworth watching her with a look of deep sadness.

The walk back home was uneventful and very quiet. 

Elena walked with a purpose, though kept her strides short so her sons could easily keep up. She maintained a firm grip on both their hands, something she had perfected over the years of wrangling twin boys- especially ones so prone to wandering off.

Their home was a small cottage located on the edge of Toad Town- something their father, Elena’s late husband- had insisted on when they both first arrived in the Mushroom Kingdom. She unlocked the door, releasing the boys’ hands so they could scurry inside ahead of her. Mario gave Luigi a playful shove as they did, sending the green twin tumbling with a squeal.

“Catch me if you can, Weegee!”

“ Mario! ” Luigi pulled his hat further down onto his head and ran after his brother on all fours. Mario shrieked, jumping up onto the couch.

Elena slowly walked over to the armchair in the corner and sank into it. Now, in the safety of her home, she felt the anxieties of the day wash over her. Entering her sons' room earlier that day to find it empty had brought back horrible memories. They were her only family, her pride and joys, and she had nearly lost them once before...

For a moment, standing in that doorway, she was six years younger, opening that door to find her newborn babies stolen from her in the middle of the night...

Overwhelmed, she buried her face in her hands and did her best to stifle back a sob.

“Mama?”

Elena looked up. Both Mario and Luigi were watching her anxiously, eyes wide.

“Are you crying because of Luigi and me?” Mario asked earnestly.

“Oh, bambino, no.” Elena assured him, wiping her eyes. “I am...just relieved you are both okay. It scared me very much when I could not find you today.”

Mario looked down at his shoes. “We just wanted to see what the castle looked like…”

“We didn’t mean to scare you, Mama.” Luigi finished, sounding on the verge of tears himself. 

“Oh, my sweet boys-” Elena pulled them both into her lap, holding them close. “I know...and I knew that, no matter where you were, you would at least be together.”

“Of course!” Mario’s tone indicated that he hadn’t even considered the alternative, and to be fair he hadn’t. “Luigi’s my best friend!” Luigi nodded in agreement.

“You are more than that.” Elena’s face got very serious, which quieted both boys. “Remember, above all else, you are brothers, and as brothers, it is your responsibility to look out for each other- especially if I am not there. Do you understand?”

Both boys nodded. 

“ Si Mama .”

Elena smiled, planting a kiss on both their foreheads. 

“That’s my good boys. Now, go wash up for supper.”

Released from her hug, Mario and Luigi scampered up the stairs to their shared bathroom. Elena sat back in her chair for a moment, listening to the sound of splashing water and giggles, and silently sent up a prayer to the star spirits to watch over her sons.

Chapter Text

In the years that followed, Toadsworth would learn to both appreciate and regret his decision.

On one hand, her new playmates certainly took the young Princess’s mind off the current state of things. She was still a child after all, and deserved to enjoy her freedom while it lasted. The boys certainly cheered her up, and true to their word they played within the confines of the castle where a multitude of servants and staff could keep an eye on them.

On the other hand…

The three of them were, to be quite frank, trouble. The princess had always exhibited a certain amount of free spirit, something that,  Toadsworth mused, she had most definitely gotten from her father. He supposed he could properly scold her for it if her antics took her away from her studies and duties, but the fact of the matter was, Peach was an excellent student. Eager to learn, to follow in her father’s footsteps, even if her childhood innocence prevented her from fully understanding her role as the future ruler

There was also the fact that it did warm Toadsworth’s heart to see his princess playing with children her own age. There was another, the young Princess Daisy of Sarasaland, whom King Toadstool had introduced Peach to when she was even younger. The girls were polar opposites, but immediately became thick as thieves, despite the large distance between them. However it was precisely because of that distance that they hardly ever got to see one another. Having friends within walking distance was somewhat of a novelty for Peach, Toadsworth supposed.

The boys...how would Toadsworth describe them? They were quite a pair, to be sure. They and their mother stuck out as the only other humans living in Toad Town- possibly the entire Mushroom Kingdom, Toadsworth figured it was only a matter of time before their paths crossed with the Princess. The eldest, Mario, was primarily responsible for many of the trio's antics- his urge to explore and participate in “adventures” outweighing any sort of sensibility. His brother, Luigi, followed him everywhere, only slightly less enthusiastic about everything. They were a whirlwind. No corner went unexplored, no staff member left unaware of their presence. They were incredibly rambunctious and stubborn, yet had a natural charisma that got them out of many a scolding from the staff. On the third playdate, they had created a rivalry between themselves and the castle’s no-nonsense head cook, Lepiota, by sneaking into her pantry and making off with several baked goods. It was now a fairly common occurrence to hear the old toad woman yelling empty threats out the kitchen door after two giggling red and green blurs. 

(They never took more than a few, and always cleaned up after themselves. Overall, the staff loved them.)

Yes, the three of them were a bane some days, but others…

Toadsworth remained hidden as he observed the scene before him. The three young tykes were sprawled out on the floor of the princess’s bedroom- the pillows and blankets torn from her bed to form a makeshift nest. Peach herself was reclined back on a pillow, a sheet of paper crumpled in her lap and one lone crayon still lingering in her hand. Her usually immaculately curled blond hair was frizzed up and fell around her face like a sort of messy halo as she snored softly. Mario’s head lay by her legs, his red cap tilted to the side. He had one arm squished under his head like a pillow and the other curled protectively around Luigi, who was pressed against his brother’s chest and clutching his own hat like a security blanket.

It was a peaceful scene. One Toadsworth dare not break, for now. All too soon the princess would be grown and have responsibilities thrust upon her- responsibilities that he needed to prepare her for. She would be expected to rule. To lead. To protect.

But that day had not come yet. The princess deserved to enjoy this happiness, no matter how fleeting. 

It was no less than what she deserved. 

Peach awoke to a soft but firm knock at her bedroom door. Mumbling softly, the young princess stirred, squinting against the sliver of light that had somehow penetrated between the gap in her curtains. Even after years of being awoken at the same time every day, she was still not a morning person.

“Princess?” The voice from the other side of the door was from Toadiko, one of her attendants. 

“Come in.” Peach reluctantly sat up, stifling a yawn with her hand. The door clicked open immediately and Toadiko entered, followed dutifully by another maid pushing a cart. Peach blinked in surprise- it was piled with an absolute spread of food. Perfectly circular pancakes, fluffy and warm, stacked neatly on a plate next to a small jar of syrup. A selection of fresh fruits cut into various shapes were arranged like a bouquet and took up the majority of the space. She could also see a plate of fluffy eggs, a selection of muffins, and a pitcher of juice.

Toadiko gave a little bouncy wave. “Happy Birthday, Princess!”

Peach gaped for a moment before she remembered. The reason she was so tired was because the anticipation of the next day, today, had kept her up nearly the entire night.

Today was her sixteenth birthday!

“Oh my goodness-.” Peach threw aside the covers and gave the little toad a hug. “Was this your idea?”

“Partially.” The girl puffed up proudly. “Toadsworth mentioned doing something originally, you only turn sixteen once after all.”

Peach smiled fondly at the mention of her steward. “Well this looks amazing.” She began reaching for a muffin before pausing. “But you know, I probably won’t be able to eat it all myself.”

Before Toadiko could reply, she found herself being handed a muffin, along with the maid. “Oh but Princess-”

“I insist. Plus, Lepiota would kill me if I sent you back with leftovers.” That was only partially true but the image made Toadiko grin regardless. The maid gratefully slipped the muffin into her pocket and bid them both farewell. Peach plucked a stick of fruit from the basket and popped the first piece into her mouth.

“So, what’s the schedule then?” It was normally the routine for Toadiko to arrive early to help her get dressed and lay out the itinerary for the day. As princess, she had many duties to attend to- and was constantly reminded of that fact by Toadsworth.

“That, actually, is up to you.” Toadiko replied. “Toadsworth said he’s releasing you from your responsibilities today- as he should, I mean, it’s your birthday!”

Peach giggled, eating another piece of fruit. “You know Toadsworth.”

“I do.” Toadiko waved her hand dismissively. “Regardless, he only wanted me to give you this.” 

She now held out a sealed envelope- fairly plain but with her name written across the front in Toadsworth’s familiar print. Peach took it curiously, now chewing on a muffin. “Unfortunately some of us still have work to do-” it was a good natured jab, one that many would find appalling between a royal and a servant, but their relationship was far more casual than that. “But I can still help you pick out an outfit for today.”

“Oh, don’t let me keep you.” Peach replied.

“Come off it.” Toadiko took a bite of her muffin before brushing off her hands. “It’s my job, plus any moment I can get away from meetings is a good thing.” Peach laughed as the pink-capped toad wandered off in the direction of her closet. “Let’s find you something fun to wear today!”

Peach sat on her bed as her friend vanished, turning over the envelope and sliding her nail under the flap to open it. She pulled out the note, continuing to nibble on her muffin as she read.

Dearest Princess,

Allow me to be one of the first to wish you a very Happy Birthday. I regret that I cannot wish you such in person, as I have a great many things to attend to today.  

The day is yours to enjoy as you see fit. I am told Ms. Lepiota has prepared a fine breakfast and also has equally fine plans for dinner this evening. I only ask that you meet with me after dinner, as there is something I need to show you.

Your faithful servant,

Toadsworth

Peach lowered the note, frowning slightly. Something to show her? It was very rare these days for Toadsworth to have kept secrets from her, seeing as she was only two years away from ascending to the throne. What could it be? The very notion both excited and worried her.

“Alright!” Toadiko squeaked, bringing her out of her thoughts as she re-entered, carrying several dresses in her arms. ‘Let’s get you looking your very best.”

After some minutes of eating and picking out clothes, accessories and shoes, as well as letting Toadiko brush and curl her hair, Peach was finally deemed presentable. She was wearing one of her more casual dresses today- still pink, like most of her clothes, but the hem was a little shorter, the skirt less firm and more flowy. She loved the way the fabric felt as it swished around. No crown, just a small pair of earrings inlaid with sapphires and a pair of matching shoes. As Peach admired herself in the mirror, Toadiko took her leave, wishing her another happy birthday.

Peach lazily finished eating, walking over to open her window and pushing it open so as to let in the morning breeze. Below, she could hear the sounds of Toad Town in full swing with toads bustling about along the street and calling to one another as they passed. Her mind swirled with thoughts of what to do for the day, it was so rare that she had a whole twenty-four hours to herself.  

Another knock at the door brought her quickly out of her thoughts. She bid whoever it was to enter, and another servant quickly stuck her head in.

“Pardon the intrusion, Princess.” Peach didn’t recognize the younger toad- probably one of the newer hires, she surmised, if the stiff way she carried herself was any indication. “You have visitors. I-...didn’t know if you were presentable yet so I asked them to wait in the foyer.”

Peach picked up her dishes and set them on the cart with a nod, smoothing out her dress. “Thank you-...?’ She trailed off.

“Toadette, my lady.”

“Thank you Toadette.” Peach beamed at her, which seemed to calm the poor girl’s nerves. Even as princess, Peach didn’t care for all the formalities associated with her title, and aimed to treat each and every one of her staff with the utmost respect. “I probably shouldn’t keep them waiting, huh? Will you take this cart back to the kitchen for me?”

Toadette nodded, giving a little curtsy before following the order. Peach held the door, which earned her a look of awe and a small “thank you.” Peach just smiled and waited until the toad was trundling back down the hall before turning and heading in the opposite direction. 

She quickly made her way to the grand staircase that connected to the foyer, walking with purpose, yet holding her head high and her shoulders back. Toadsworth had told her that princesses weren't expected to rush or sprint, but Peach hated to keep anyone waiting on her account. Plus, she was awfully curious about who might be visiting.

Her haste was justified, for once she caught a glimpse of the two figures waiting for her, Peach's face broke into a grin.

"Mario! Luigi!"

The two brothers turned at the sound of their names, grins to match her own lighting up their faces. Even now, ten years later, they still dressed mostly identical, with Mario favoring red and Luigi favoring green. They still wore their favorite caps, somehow immaculate despite the fact that Peach was certain their mother had patched them up almost a dozen times by now. The most striking difference between them now was that Luigi was starting to gain some height over Mario, a complete lanky teenager compared to his brother's stockier build. 

Peach, despite knowing how "unladylike" it was, flung herself at Mario as he wrapped her in a hug.

"Hey, Princess." He greeted her. "Happy Birthday."

"I'm so glad you guys are here!" Peach gushed, pulling away from Mario before wrapping her arms around Luigi. The younger brother gave her a fierce hug in return. 

"Well we couldn't stay away, not on your birthday." Mario replied. "Besides, Luigi kept bugging me about giving you your gift." He held up the carefully wrapped box in his hands.

Luigi rolled his eyes before mock whispering to Peach. "Don't let him fool you. He hasn't shut up about it for the past two weeks."

"Ay!" Mario punched his brother playfully in the arm, and Luigi responded by knocking his hat down over his eyes. Peach laughed. "Aw, you guys didn't have to get me a present."

"No way- presents are a requirement for birthdays. Especially one this important. Think we can convince Old Man Toad to let us borrow you for a few minutes?"

"No need." Peach shook her head. "He gave me the day off- I'm a free woman until dinnertime."

Mario's grin widened. "Awesome! We're pretty much free all day too."

"Then, gentlemen, shall we retire to the garden?" Peach asked in a posh accent, not unlike Toadsworth's.

Mario gave a rather dramatic bow and offered her his arm. "Lead the way, m'lady."

Peach linked arms with him as Luigi did the same on her other side. The three friends walked side by side through the foyer and out towards the back gardens. She didn't need to give them directions, after years of exploring these halls, the brothers knew the castle almost as well as she did. 

The garden had become their favorite place in recent years. Meandering paths of stone wove between rows of well trimmed hedges blooming with flowers of every color, shape and size and clusters of mushrooms thrives in the shady patches of trees. The three of them could sit and talk for hours there, enjoying the sun on their faces. They found a bench located in a corner furthest away from the castle and made themselves comfortable. Mario held out the present for her to take, an excited gleam in his eyes betraying his somewhat neutral expression.

Peach took it and began to carefully tear open the paper edges.

"Oh come on!" Mario laughed. "That's not how you open a present!"

"Oh but it's so pretty I almost hate to ruin it." Peach teased, giggling at the red brother's groaning. Luigi snickered. 

Deciding to put him out of his misery, Peach tore into the paper, but was still careful not to drop any on the ground. With the wrapping removed, she carefully slid the top off the small box.

Inside lay a simple necklace. The chain appeared to be made of gold or at least something similar, and it was connected to a pendant inlaid with a gorgeous blue stone- similar to the sapphire earrings she was currently wearing. Peach lifted it up, noticing how the light caught and swirled within the blue stone.

"Wow." She breathed.

"You probably have a lot of jewelry and stuff but we saw this and…yeah-" Mario trailed off.

Sure she did have a lot of pendants and necklaces, she was a princess after all. But nothing quite like this- simple, yet beautiful in its own way. Peach smiled.

"I love it."

Both boys looked relieved, although they were trying their very best to hide it. Peach set the box down and unclasped the chain, fixing it behind her head and letting the pendant lay on her chest. With her hands free, she pulled both boys close to her again. "You two are the best."

"Can I get that in writing?" Mario asked cheekily. "Just in case you forget later?"

Peach rolled her eyes. "I take it back."

"You wound me, Princess. Look, you're hurting poor Luigi's feelings."

"Ay, leave me out of this." The green brother protested. Mario stuck out his tongue. Peach made a face back.

"So, no royal duties today huh?" 

"Nope. I'm free until dinner and then Toadsworth says he wanted to show me something- oh you should come!" She interrupted herself suddenly. "To dinner, I mean-!"

They were quiet for a moment. Her excitement waned when she saw the look that passed between them. "What?" She withdrew her arms and looked back and forth. "What's wrong?"

"We would love too, normally." Luigi began. "But um-"

"We're kinda having a celebration dinner of our own tonight." Mario finished.

"Oh-? What for?"

Another glance, Mario continued. "We both got accepted into trade school."

Peach blinked in surprise. In their many years of being together, it was sometimes easy for her to forget that the boys were a year older than her. They had talked about trade school before- their father had apparently been a plumber before his passing. "That- that's amazing!" She beamed. "Congratulations! Which school?"

"Metro Tech. In New Donk City."

Her face fell slightly as the sudden realization hit her. "You're…you're moving?"

"Aw Peach…" Luigi hunched his shoulders.

"Not until the end of this year." Mario cut in hurriedly. "But…yeah."

Peach looked down at her lap. It made sense of course, despite being the capitol, Toad Town was rather small. Sure they had a couple of schools but compared to the Metro Kingdom's sprawling jewel of a city they were little more than a village.

Still a small (albeit selfish) part of her had hoped that they would still be in town. She could still see them nearly every day. That's how things had always been.

That's how things were supposed to be.

"Come on." Mario urged, pulling her out of her thoughts. "It's still today. We've still got time to do anything you want-"

"You don't have to leave." Peach blurted out suddenly. Luigi blinked in surprise. Mario gave her a sideways glance but didn't immediately reply, prompting her to continue. "I-I mean, you both could stay here, in the castle- I could get you any job you wanted-."

Mario let out a quiet laugh. "I don't think that's very fair- as generous of an offer that is."

"But-"

"Peach." The quiet way he said her name caused her argument to die in her throat. She looked down, picking at a loose thread on her skirt (a very unladylike trait, Toadsworth would say, but she didn't particularly care at this moment). "What's really bothering you?"

Peach took a deep breath, still avoiding his gaze. "It's just...everything's changing. I'm turning sixteen and everyone's going to expect me to run the kingdom on my own soon...you and Luigi are leaving...and it's all happening so fast- "

"Woah hey- hey take a breath." Mario rested his hand on hers, squeezing it. She paused, inhaling shakily. "So things are gonna be a little different, that doesn't mean we're never going to see each other again."

"It's only for a couple of years." Luigi added quietly.

Mario spoke with such confidence, even though Peach knew that such a thing was a very real possibility. She wasn't about to say that aloud though so instead she whispered "Promise?"

"Luigi and I will always be here when you need us." Mario replied, matter of factly. Then, with a wink he added "And even when you don't."

Peach genuinely laughed at that, throwing her arms around Mario's neck in a hug. Luigi shifted his arm around her shoulders and soon she found herself sandwiched tightly between the two brothers.

The three of them stayed like that for a long while, entangled in each other's arms. Peach rested her head against Mario's, and closed her eyes, feeling her apprehensions melt away. Regardless of what tomorrow would bring, the three of them still had each other like always. 

And that was all she ever needed.

Chapter Text

Dinnertime came faster than Peach would have liked- a stark contrast to that morning, when the thoughts of what Lepiota would prepare had excited her. Now, as she walked back through the garden with Mario and Luigi in tow, she could feel the end of their time together slipping away.

They left her in the foyer, all smiles and hugs and birthday wishes. Peach was embarrassed to realize that she held her hugs for longer than what was probably considered necessary. 

It's not like they're leaving tomorrow! She chastised herself silently as she watched them go.

She probably would have remained rooted to that one spot for the rest of the evening had a concerned maid not called to her, reminding her that she still had to get ready. With a start, she came back to herself.

Right. Dinner.

She let herself be escorted back to her room by the maid. Toadiko was waiting for her, a dinner outfit already assembled. This one was much less casual- fitting for a "proper" Princess. She made no fuss until Toadiko went to unclasp her necklace. Her hand wrapped around the pendant.

"I'd…like to keep this on." She said quietly.

Toadiko paused before giving her a knowing smile. "Of course, Princess."

Eventually she was clean, dressed, and being whisked off towards the dining hall by Toadiko and her other attendant, Toadbert. The two toads posted outside snapped to attention when she arrived, pushing open the large doors.

"Presenting her Royal Highness, Princess Peach Toadstool!"

The crowd already assembled at the table stood to greet her. Peach lifted her chin and strode down the side of the table in the manner that had been drilled into her since she was old enough to walk. She greeted each person- mostly small dignitaries from various kingdoms, the Queen Bean and her son Peasley, and-

"Daisy!"

Her friend in question was seated near the head of the table, beside her father. At the sound of her name, the princess of Sarasaland beamed and opened her arms to accept Peach's hug.

"Hey Peachy-keen. Happy Birthday!"

"I'm so glad you made it!"

"Yeah, well we would have gotten here sooner but Dad had…ya know, business ."

"Now Daisy." The king's voice was firm, but there was a slight twinge of humor hidden there. "That business will be your own someday."

"Yeah, Dad but this is important !"

The king simply chuckled and turned his attention to Peach, opening his arms for a hug. "Happy Birthday, my dear."

Peach returned the gesture. The king of Sarasaland was well known for his warm demeanor and joyful personality. In recent years, she had come to think of him sort of as an Uncle to her. "Thank you, your majesty."

The sound of someone clearing their throat got all of their attention. Toadsworth was seated to the right of the head chair, and he was looking at her expectantly. Peach suddenly remembered that everyone there was waiting on her.

Daisy huffed. "Go on Peaches. Or Father Toad over there might blow his top."

"Daisy!" The king wagged his finger in an exaggerated scolding motion as Peach giggled. Daisy just grinned "Catch up with you later okay?"

"Okay." Peach nodded before finally taking her place at the head of the table. With a subtle nod from Toadsworth, she sat, allowing the rest of the guests to follow suit.

The dinner was, of course, mostly a formality. An excuse to get the leads of the kingdoms together in a slightly less formal environment. Of course they paid their respects to her, offering her birthday wishes and presenting gifts that were brought forth by servants. The real highlight was the food. As Peach had expected, Lepoita had simply outdone herself, so when talk shifted to politics (as it was always prone to do) Peach found herself paying more attention to what was on her plate than what Toadsworth was saying.

After the presentation and consumption of a massive pink and white cake, the dinner slowly came to a close. Peach bid farewell to each visitor and tried her very best not to yawn loudly. Daisy hugged her fiercely, reassuring her that even though her father was leaving, she had gotten permission to stay in Toad Town for a few days.

“We can have some real fun tomorrow!” She promised before being whisked off by her attendants. Finally, finally , everyone had left- except, Peach noticed, Queen Bean and Prince Peaasley, who were standing off to the side listening to Toadsworth.

Peach was suddenly reminded of Toadsworth’s note.

There is something I need to show you.

She approached them just as Toadsworth was finishing speaking. He turned his attention to her, offering a little bow. 

“Ah Princess, thank you for humoring me tonight. Did you enjoy the dinner?”

“Yes, it was lovely.” Peach replied. 

Toadsworth nodded. “I hope you do not mind, but I asked Queen Bean and the prince to accompany us tonight. They…have a stake in what I’m about to show you, so I only thought it appropriate.”

“Of course not.” Peach curtsied to them both, as she was taught. Prince Peasley smiled, and offered a prim bow of his own. “Always lovely to see you, dear Princess.” He chimed in, taking her hand and kissing it gently. 

She restrained herself from rolling her eyes. Peach liked Peasley, but he was sometimes a bit too dramatic for her taste.

 Toadsworth cleared his throat. “Yes, very good. Let’s be off then.”

Peach looked between him and Queen Bean, hoping one of them would clarify what exactly was going on. Toadsworth simply tapped his walking stick on the ground and hurried off, the Queen not far behind, leaving her and Peasley to follow.

“Do you know what this is about?” She murmured to Peasley.

The bean prince merely shrugged, but his grin had faltered somewhat slightly. Peach huffed.

“Fine. Don’t tell me then.”

“Sorry Peach. Mums the word. Quite literally in this case.”

Peach cast a glance at Queen Bean. She was hunched over, whispering to Toadsworth as they walked. Both of them looked stone faced and serious, which, to be fair wasn’t a new look for Toadsworth, but looked out of place on the normally jovial Queen.

Peach simply hiked up her skirt and hurried after them, hoping that whatever it was would be quick so she could change into her pajamas.

No one stopped them as they left the main floor of the castle and descended down into the basement. Peach wondered briefly if that was mostly on purpose as they navigated the maze of corridors that ran underneath the main keep- Toadsworth seemed keen on keeping whatever this was top secret.

 They continued on down several levels until coming to a dead end. Peach looked around in confusion. She had never been to this part of the castle- the sublevels had been the one thing that were always off-limits even to her. Looking at it now it didn’t seem like there was much to look at anyway.

“Toadsworth-?” She turned to the older Toad, who was now busy digging in his pocket for something. 

“Blasted thing, never in the same place I put it- aha!” He pulled out a tiny key with some amount of flourish and walked over to the far wall.

“Watch carefully, Princess.” He instructed.

Peach moved closer to observe, gasping slightly when Toadsworth slid the key into a tiny notch between two bricks, just barely visible in the dim light. He turned it, and something just beyond the wall clicked into place.

A section of floor in the center of the walk slid open, revealing what, at first glance, looked to be a large hole in the ground. After some moments, Peach recognized it as a warp pipe- although instead of the standard green, this one was colored blue. 

“There we are.” Toadsworth pulled the key out of the wall and repocketed it. “Just a little further.”

Peach leaned over and looked into the warp pipe. She could feel a pit of uncertainty settle in her stomach, “Where are we going?”

Toadsworth sighed, gripping the top of his cane. “...This is something your father set into motion, before he passed. I have done my part, but the time has come for me to…at least let you in on the secret.”

Peach blinked, trying to register the weight of those words. Toadsworth hardly gave her time, however, before he began lowering himself into the warp pipe.

“I shall explain everything when we arrive, quickly now!”

When they arrived on the other side of the warp pipe, the first thing Peach noticed was that the air was much colder than in the cellar. She wrapped her arms around herself. Her dinner dress was not made for chilly weather and she couldn’t help but feel a little bitter at Toadsworth for not mentioning it. Something touched her shoulder and she jumped, only to realize it was Peasley, in the process of draping his jacket around her shoulders. She gripped it closer and gave him a thankful smile.

Now protected from the worst of the chill, Peach looked around in awe at her surroundings. They were standing in an open pavilion of some sort- with pillars that seemed to be made of blue glass and a roof of marble. The floor looked as if it were made out of stardust, swirling and shifting beneath her feet. Beyond the pillars, the sky was dotted with millions and billions of stars and seemed to stretch on endlessly. 

“Where...are we?” She asked quietly.

“The Star Shrine., on Shooting Star Summit.” Toadsworth explained. He gestured ahead of them with his cane, where some steps led out of the pavilion and onto a starlit path, and began to walk without any further explanation.

“ Toadsworth- ” Peach called after him, failing to mask the irritation in her voice. He looked back at her with some sympathy.

“Just a little further my dear.” He promised, and continued forward.

On and on they walked, along the shimmering path. Shooting Star Summit was well known for its breathtaking views of both the Mushroom Kingdom, as well as an unobstructed view of what felt like the entire cosmos. Peach had been twice before, once with her parents when she was very young, and again with Toadsworth a few years ago on the anniversary of her father’s death. In normal circumstances she would be taking every opportunity to look around at her surroundings, taking in the marble buildings of the temple, the swirling path, and the endless sky…

But tonight she was tired- her dinner dress was starting to weigh on her, and Peasley’s jacket, while keeping out the majority of the cold, was not quite enough to keep the chill off her arms. She was just about to bring it up to Toadsworth when he came to a sudden stop outside one of the temple’s many buildings, using the same key from before to unlock the door.

“Toadsworth, perhaps now is a good time to begin your explanation.” Queen Bean suggested, as he held the door open for them to enter. The room inside was dark, although Peach noticed it seemed to be giving off a strange purple light. Toadsworth clasped one hand around his cane and the other reached out to take hers. His lips were pressed together, but he looked up at her with sincerity.

“My dear,” he began. “I have done my best to raise you as I believe your father would have wanted. In two years time, you will take the throne, but tonight I must share with you something that is incredibly important to the safety of both the Mushroom and Beanbean Kingdoms.”

Peach blinked at the sudden severity of his words, the safety of both kingdoms? What on earth was he talking about? “Toadsworth-?”

Toadsworth squeezed her hand and simply pointed over her shoulder with his cane. 

Peach turned, realizing she was now staring straight into the source of the mysterious light. Ahead of her, up some marble steps was a pedestal encased in a shimmering dome of energy. Hovering on that pedestal was...well Peach wasn’t quite sure what it was. 

It was surrounded in a dense purple and black aura that seemed to both give off light and suck it from its surroundings. The aura swirled and billowed like smoke, pressing up against the barrier like it was eager to escape. 

“What is it?” She whispered quietly, unable to take her eyes off the eerie light. 

“That.” Toadsworth said gravely. “Is the Darkstar.”