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Stare Them Down

Mairo's not used to being called a hero, nor the work that comes with it. Even more so when he has to tackle an issue that no one has an idea what the cause of it is. Doubly so when he has to also deal with a loud mouthed, in your face individual.

Inspired by: @weevmo Link to art (hope it works): https://www.tumblr.com/weevmo/708159600198909952/i-want-wario-to-hate-marioi-also-want-him-to

Fandom: Super Mario & Releated Fandoms Rating: Teen and UP Audiences Relationship: Luigi & Mario (Nintendo), Wario & Waluigi (Nintendo), Wario & Mario (Nintendo) Additional Tags: Luigi and Waluigi and other characters are going to be mentioned, Focus on Mario and Wario, this is personal world building, author has no knowledge on Wario's lore, sorry, based off artwork, mentions of blood/violence, cursing, additional tags will be added.

Cover Art by weevmo

This was not what Mario was expecting when he woke up that morning.

When he’d been summoned to the castle, Mario was prepared to face off against Bowser again. Or to learn that Princess Peach had been kidnapped once more. He instead was greeted with a throne room filled with frantic looking Toads and a worried princess. The smaller creatures shouting at each other as they attempted to get Princess Peach’s attention first. Who’s smile was more than a little strained.

It took longer than Mario liked to calm everyone down to get a proper explanation as to what was happening.

Apparently a new town had just struck down. Right on the very edge of the kingdom to better manage items to be traded and shipped out. As well as a way to hopefully keep an eye out if Bowser was up to something.

The houses were half finished when issues started to arise. First, it was the fact that items started being moved. Either to different areas from where they’d previously been placed to out right disappearing. Then loud and frightful noises could be heard at night. Nothing the Toads had heard before, making it impossible to sleep. Structures started to be tampered with, half broken or on the verge of collapsing.

The final straw came when a Toad lost their life while working. Another who had been in the same room with the departed swore they saw nothing wrong happening at the time. All seeming secure with the Toad focused on what they were doing. Only to see their companion fall from the rafters with a look of fear and confusion on their face. Those in the area unable to forget the sickening ‘crack’ and how the other just fell limp upon reaching the ground.

The high pitched laughter that followed was the final push to get out.

The Toads were now begging Peach for help. Either to send someone to figure out what was going on. Or at least give them permission to build elsewhere.

“Both Toadsworth and the Foreman don’t want to count the time as a loss,” Peach explained further, “So I’m hoping you could see what’s going on.”

“And…no one has any idea what could be causing all of this?” asked Mario.

“None.”

The red-cladded hero frowned at that. Mario was still getting used to his new title. Sure, he’d faced a few…interesting things before. Was even on his high of taking Bowser down twice at this point. But he was normally given some kind of information about what he was going against. Given a chance to be prepared or at least have enough to know what kind of power-ups to use.

Going in completely blind made his stomach churn in worry.

Mario eventually reached the conclusion that he should expect moments like. Especially given how crazy this world was. But he was the hero! He should be able to face any issue brought to him. This big unknown just came with the title…right?

With a verbal agreement to help, Mario was brought to the barely constructed town. Just able to make out the half finished structures over the hill.

What was not hard to make out was a group of Toads, not the ones currently carting Mario to their supposed new home, circling around a larger form. The hero worried for a split second in thinking Bowser was here, for some random reason. Only for the person to turn and Mario’s attitude soured.

There had only been one ‘proper’ meeting Mario and Wario. Which was one time too many.

It was after Mario’s second rescue of Princess Peach, both having returned to the castle. The princess wanted to throw a small celebration for the newly anointed hero as a thanks for saving her life once more. Mario was just happy the injuries were minimal. They were about an hour in when the large entrance doors were kicked open. Mario had a brief panic, thinking that Bower had sent a new minion to cause trouble.

Only for Peach to welcome the sudden newcomer like an old friend. The princess let out a noise of glee, handing her plate over to Toadsworth so she could pull the other into a proper hug. It was a strange contrast, watching the two interact. Mario thought the princess’ royal and prim appearance were soiled by the other. As they appear like they’d just rolled out of bed with the most stained outfit they could find and rushed over.

Toadsworth quickly explained to the extremely confused human who Wario was. Apparently, he was a childhood friend. But not the good kind. More of the ‘constantly causing trouble and fixing the same issue he caused’ kind of not good.

“He’s loud, stubborn, and rude. But the princess finds his brash personality charming and he’s technically not done anything…illegal. Yet, or at least not discovered. But he does like to stick his nose where it doesn’t belong. Just…keep on your toes Master Mario.” The elder Toad warned.

That was all the warning got before Mario was suddenly strong armed. Getting a stomach churning whiff of sweat and day old cheese. Wario was loud and abrasive. Eager to call Mario ‘Mini-misprinted me’ or ‘The friendly child-size version’. Laughter rattled through the hero’s head as he was cheerfully shaken.

“My name is Mario.” The human growled out, trying to push himself free. Stumbling slightly when he was allowed to stand on his own two feet.

“Exactly,” Wario smirked, “I said ‘misprinted’ for a reason. The ‘W’ was flipped upside down.”

“Are you always like this?” Mario held his ground as the other leaned closer.The smirk seemed to grow.

“It’s part of my charm.”

Oh, Mario really didn’t like this guy. In only two minutes Wario had ticked off every box that grated on Mario’s nerves.

Which made the worry over this mysterious assignment melt to annoyance when Mario realized it was Wario talking to the other group of Toads. Still large, still loud, still able to put everyone on edge. He was casual as he addressed the small group. Uncaring about the clear fear on everyone’s face. There was no reason for him to be here, Mario seriously doubting that anyone would deliberately call Wario. So why the heck was he here?

“Don’t you worry your little nervous heads,” Wario commented calmly, shifting his shoulder bag as he stood straight. “I’ll take care of whatever issue you lot have… For a good price.”

“You really are the worst.” Mario called out.

Wario’s pointed ears twitched, turning sharply to glare at whoever spoke up. But it quickly melted to a smirk seeing Mario. “Well, if it isn’t mini-me! What’s an adorable short stack like you doing all the way out here? Must be big if it pulls you from your cushy home.”

“I was asked to help with the situation. What are you doing here?”

“Same as you. Except I was just in the neighborhood and saw this group of panicked citizens. I’m helping out of the kindness of my heart and not acting as a lap dog.”

“You mean you’re scamming them. Why do I get the feeling like you’re behind whatever’s going on.”

Wario’s smirk tightened. “You really took old Toadworth’s words to heart. I’m a little hurt, to be honest! You’re not even going to give me an proper chance.”

“Our first meeting was ‘chance’ enough and there’s nothing honest about you. Now, If you’ll excuse me, I have a job to do.

“Whoa, slow down there little buddy!” Mario was less than pleased when he was easily lifted off the ground. Held up where his overall straps connected on his back. Forced to face that stupid smirk again. “Now, I know you’re not talking about taking my payday?”

Artwork by: Nikikeya (Ao3 Account)

“Why would anyone hire you! Besides, I’m here on the kingdom’s behalf. Paired with the fact that I’m doing it for free and with being their hero, I’m curious as to why you haven’t been chased off yet. These Toads don’t need you when I’m here to help.”

“Look, it’s super cute what you’re doing. Endearing even! But you’re still way too new to any of this ‘hero work’ to be counted as reliable. Can’t go rushing unprepared.”

Mario flushed in anger at that. “Oh, so you know what’s going on?”

“Not in the slightest,” Wario shrugged casually, “But I do know that I have seen some crazy stuff. Whatever this problem is, I know I won’t have any issues dealing with it. Better than you could anyway. Just do yourself a favor to avoid embarrassment and run back home before you get hurt. Let Peach know that I’m dealing with this now. That’ll make her feel better.”

It took everything for Mario to not throw a punch. He was close enough. He could knock that stupid smirk off easily-

He paused as a thought struck Mario. His own grin formed, which clearly confused Wario. “Oh, I get it. Look, I understand, with old age comes slower results.”

Wario gritted his teeth as he growled slowly. Getting a little satisfaction watching the human stumble upon hitting the ground suddenly. “I ain’t that much your senior.”

“Hey, no shame in being worried about young blood pushing you out.” Mario attempted to sound casual as he rubbed his lower back. Trying to alleviate some pain from the hard landing.

“You’re really pushing your luck.”

“And you’re pushing your age. Experience means nothing if your body gives out halfway through a job.”

Wario glared, but stood his ground. “If you’re so sure about that, how about a little challenge?”

“Yeah?”

“First one to figure out what the issue is, solve it, and get back up here gets their desired outcome. Me getting paid or you getting another ego boost for your already inflated head.”

“You’re one to talk. You keep your self-entitlement in your gut?” Mairo was not pleased when he flinched as Wario started forward as if to hit him. Glaring back at the other’s laughter.

“Back up your words if you’re so sure!” Wario held out his hand. Smirk in place as he raised a taunting brow.

Mario took a slight step back as the hand was brought up. Giving himself a mental facepalm realizing it was an offered handshake. Acknowledgement of agreeing to said terms. Straightening his stance, Mario placed one of his own into the offered hand. Trying to ignore how his dwarfs compared to the other.

“Fine, we have a deal.”

“Perfect.”

Mario let out a yelp of surprise as he was pulled forward. Being flung back as Wario rushed towards the half completed town.

“Thanks for the head start, little hero!” Wario’s signature laugh echoing as he raced off.

Having enough focus to keep himself upright, Mario let out a sigh of relief of not having to hit the ground again. Quickly turning just to watch Wario disappear among the buildings.

“Um…Mario?”

A timid voice brought the human out of his competitive anger. Getting a jolt of reality hitting him in remembering he had an audience during that entire performance. Finding numerous worried faces staring back at him. A thought of ‘Placing a bet on their new home wasn’t the smartest idea,’ ran through his head.

“Uh, don’t worry! I’ll have this sorted out in no time, promise.” Mario offered a warm smile and a tip of his head before running off. Down the same dirt path Wario had taken. Getting a boost of assurance as the Toads cheered him on.

_____________________________

Nothing made Wario quick to annoy than pompous attitude. People who automatically think lowly of others by looks or status. That if someone didn’t grow up in the same silver spoon situation, that person was worse than dirt. How someone would try and claim their life was ‘so hard’ when work was just handed to them. How they would never understand what it meant to just survive each day…

He’s been dealing with it all his life. Struggling to find some footing while the world crumbled around him. He eventually learned to just deal. That he’d become the lightning rod of disaster. Wario having to put on a face of indifference while being the focus of injustice. It happened more times than he’d like to admit.

Deciding if he was going to be labeled as a bad guy, why not play the part? Give everyone what they were expecting. If being a despised individual made everyone else feel better about their own shortcomings, so be it.

Princess Peach was the only person who treated Wario like…well, like a person. It’s why he panicked upon hearing Bowser had kidnapped her. Apparently for a second time! The first incident, he and his brother were on a job and he didn’t have ears on the kingdom. Needless to say, Wario was only in a bit of a panicked state when he arrived at the castle.

Only to find a human standing next to Peach.

Mario was who Wario wanted to be seen as. Helpful, approachable, charming in a more acceptable way. Clean cut and clearly well put together. It was annoying at how an outsider had so easily wormed his way into other’s hearts. Wario also didn’t like how accepting the human was of Toadsworth’s words. Of course he’d heard what the old Toad said about him. Wario wasn’t standing that far away.

There had been a brief hope that, seeing how well Peach accepted Wario, Mario wouldn’t be that quick to judge.

Storm of bad luck strikes the lightning rod again.

Wario could actually feel the venom dripping from Mario’s eyes before they properly met. The former easily falls into his protective attitude. Playing the part everyone was expecting him to be. Peach even seemed a little concerned by the end of the night at Wario’s actions.

He was brought out of his thoughts when he ran right into a metal post. Grumbling as he pulled away to rub his now sore nose. Bitterly asking who would put a random post just right there and was thankful no one was there to see that.

Speaking of…

“If I’m going to get a 1-up on that ‘hero’, I need to focus.” Wario grumbled as he reached into his bag of tools. Various items collected over the years to help make his random jobs a little easier to manage. Pulling out a small notebook, he thumbed through the pages until he reached the recent entry.

“Let’s see… Objects moving, items being destroyed, someone getting a Game Over… Whatever this is, it’s territorial as all can be. Unfortunately this doesn't offer a clean idea of what it is. Too many creatures are fast and territorial. If someone could have just seen something…”

Wario stilled as a warning chill traveled up his spine. Quickly turning, only to find nothing. He allowed a few seconds to pass before slowly making his way forward again. “Possibly- No, definitely an invisible being. Would explain how that Toad was attacked with no visible sign of the attacker. Maybe they give off a heat signature.”

Putting the notebook away, Wario pulled out a small device. A panel of glass framed by a metal structure. It softly hummed as it powered on, soon displaying the surrounding area in a monochromatic kind of way. Mainly displaying different shades of blue. There were a few areas giving off a yellow/orange/red heat signature. Wario guessed that’s where the power had been contained that was supposed to light up the town.

“Nothing seems out of place,” Wario let out a huff as he looked the area over once more, “Come on, give me something substantial…”

He hated to admit how badly he needed this job, or more specifically the pay. It was honestly lucky that he’d come across the issue. The small house he lived in was running cold in more ways than one. There was a weird bulldog forming in the living room ceiling. The fridge was filled with items he could barely call food and Waluigi…

He couldn’t think about that right now. He couldn’t be caught unaware if this enemy enjoyed sneaking up on unsuspecting victims.

But it was hard to not panic when there was so much riding on this right now. It also didn’t help in thinking that little ‘wanna-be-hero’ pest was rushing around here as well. Where in the world did some human get off on acting so much better than Wario? Just because Mario saved Peach didn’t mean he gets to take on everything. He doesn’t get to run around with his ‘better than everyone else’ kind of-

Something heavy fell in the nearest outs. Wario turned sharply to face the half completed building, heart racing. He lifted the scanner and found…

Nothing.

“No heat signature?” Wario frowned.

He didn’t like the idea of being cornered, but this was a bad idea he had to take. Putting the scanner away, because it clearly wasn’t helping, Wario cautiously walked in. By the given skeletal structure’s design, this was probably supposed to be a house. Two stories with the given height and a rather bare stairway. The sound had apparently been caused by a number of wooden boards that were currently lying on the ground. Dust still settling down where they had landed.

The increasing darkness led to Wario pulling out a heavy duty flashlight. The beam fell over the partially completed building, searching for something, anything, to tell him what was happening.

Why did all of this seem familiar? And not in a good way.

Moving further in, Wario continued to look for the intruder. Going from room to uncompleted room, quickly coming back to the entrance in less than a minute. Toad houses weren’t that large. Especially compared to Wario’s stride. There was only one clear way in and out, the front door, as the windows were covered. Meaning Wario should have at least heard someone scrambling to get out quickly or at least the covering being torn down if they didn’t want to use the door.

But there was still nothing.

Wario grumbled in annoyance, saying out loud, “Alright, I’m tired of this game. Come on out, I just want to talk.”

Again, nothing…

A warning chill traveled through Wario’s spine, the flashlight starting to shake in his hand. He sharply turned once more. The flashlight, more specifically the beam it was producing, found the intruder first. Wario just catches enough of a glance to get a flash of an eerie green glow with little nubs covering eyes. The form disappeared due to the light before Wario could fully take in what he was seeing.

Heart hammering, Wario quickly and quietly left the house. Eyes wide and constantly darting around. He had to keep on his toes. Needing to rely on his other senses to give an early alert if another tried to sneak up on him. Feeling very little relief once he was outside of the building.

If the infestation was bad, there would be no way to tell how many there would be. If the number was large, his light wasn’t going to be enough anymore. They tend to get stronger in groups. One was worrisome, but more…

It would be the best idea to just call this town a loss and to keep everyone as far away from here as-

Wario stumbled to a stop. A new form of fear chilling him.

Mario was here.

Mario was here and had no idea what he was up against.

“Shit…Shit!” Thoughts of leaving disappeared from his mind as he raced off to the opposite side of the town. Hoping he could find the other before the worst could happen.

Wario pointedly ignored the cold laughter that followed him.

_____________________________

Mairo’s eyes traveled over the half constructed buildings. Biting his lower lip in worry as he realized he really had no idea what he was looking for. Panicking upon realizing that Wario had a huge head start. Not only in distance but in resources. Mario saw the bag dropped over the other’s shoulder. All the tools half-hazardly thrown in together, resting in a jumbled mess. There was also the fact that Wario had more knowledge of this world than Mario did. His mind unhelpfully reminded him how a hero title meant nothing if he didn’t know what he was up against.

Mario felt a chill travel through him and he trend sharply. Only to find nothing there.

This was not normal. At least by Mario’s standard when facing an enemy. They usually took the head on approach when fighting him. The ‘out in the open, make eye contact, then charging forward’ style. If anything hid in the shadows, they would have become bored at this point and jump out to attack. This was all just too different.

As the darkness increased, so did Mairo’s worries. Was he too late in finding a solution? Had Wario already returned to the awaiting Toads with good news? Were they already heading back to Peach’s castle? Mario couldn’t help the bitter feeling settling into his stomach at the thought of being left behind. Wario no doubt chuckling at being able to land such a big win over the hero.

Mario gave his head a shake. Slapping his cheeks a few times muttering, “Stop that, you need to focus. Negative thoughts aren’t going to help. You still haven’t found out what the issue is. Just worry about that and-”

Not paying attention to his surroundings, Mario walked right into a metal pole. Stumbling back as he let out some choice words. Rubbing his sore nose and was thankful no blood was found on his gloves. Understanding he was just an idiot and merely in pain.

Mario turned to glare at the offended item.

Only to realize that there was a pole placed right in the middle of the road. There was absolutely no reason for it to be placed there. Mario also noticed that the pole was in no way placed into the ground. Looking more as if someone was just holding it in place. Except there wasn’t another living soul seen.

“What the… Wario, is this you?” Mario called out, trying to alleviate some worry. “Very funny. You got your moment to make me look like an idiot. Ha ha, hilarious, you can come out now.”

Nothing moved.

The laughter that sounded wasn’t what Mario was expecting. It wasn’t Wario’s, his was loud and boisterous. This was chilling and turned the human’s blood to ice. And it sounded like it came from everywhere.

That wasn’t good.

As Mario tried to think of what his next move was going to be, the pole clattered to the ground. Just barely missing him. Mario jumped back, a little embarrassed in an overreaction. Until he remembered that whoever was holding said item was now on the move. That thought had just entered his mind when something pierced his right arm.

Mario let out a cry of pain as he forcefully pulled his arm away. Pain increased as the stabs now became tears. Facing his attacker, Mario’s anger turned to fear in a split second.

There were three small beings, all giving off an eerie green glow, floating before him. Little nubs for arms reaching up to cover their eyes. Bodies are round and very wispy, allowing Mario to look through them.

But the features that stood out the most were the mouths. Elongated, taking up the most space in the already small bodies. The closest to Mario had theirs open. Revealing mismatched, jagged teeth, with a mix of red and green liquid dripping from them.

Well, at least Mario knew what attacked him.

Heart pounding furiously, Mario felt as if he was in some sort of bizarre standoff. He couldn’t move and creatures hadn’t tried to get closer. Still covering their eyes. Mario knew he couldn't stay there. If how wet his arm and glove felt was any indication, he was losing a lot of blood, quickly.

Fighting was not going to be an option. His best bet would be to run now and patch himself up enough to get back to the castle.

Mario had just started to turn when something latched onto the back of his head. Forcing him to remain looking forward. His noise of complaint was cut off by another voice snapping out, “Don’t move.”

“...Wario?”

“Your first instinct with Boos is to turn tail and run… Don’t. That’s how you die. Stand your ground, look them in the eye, never turn your back. You’d better be happy I’m here. These things are bad to deal with period, but even worse on your own.”

This didn’t sound like Wario. He was too serious, too focused, and too worried. This wasn’t the carefree, disruptive individual that Toasdworth warned Mario about. The hand on the back of his head didn’t make him feel worried, that he was about to be harmed. It was comforting.

“W-What do we do?” Mario eventually asked.

“We’re gonna make a break for the town’s limit. We should be left alone once there. But that means we play my way. If there’s three here already, then there’s more approaching. Seems you’re tagged as a good snack. I can keep an eye on these three. But you need to run.”

Mario went to nod, forgetting that Wario wouldn’t be able to see him. That concern disappeared when the ground suddenly shifted. The human stumbled, shifting to one side as a dazed fog entered his mind. In Wario’s attempt to keep the other upright, his eyes leave the Boos. Remember that was a stupid thing to do and snapped his eye snack up, hand grabbing Mario’s right arm. Cursing, finding the Boos closer…and something warm was soaking into his gloves.

“Are you hurt?”

“...One of them bit me.” This announcement was met with cold laughter. Loud and bone-chilling, Mario’s heart race increased to a furious degree. The weight now shifted to rest on his back offering the only comfort.

Wario did everything to keep himself as calm as possible, because now they were in the middle of a feeding frenzy. If they were going to run, they needed to go, now.

“Okay, I need you to listen to me carefully,” Wario’s voice was still steady as his eyes flickered between the Boos before them and those no doubt now drawing closer. “The closest way out is to our left. I need you to turn that way and run. I’ll be right behind you. If you see a Boo, stare them down.”

The fog in Mairo’s mind was starting to become stronger, eyes blinking furiously. His arm started to burn. His first thought was to fight back. “I-I have power ups-”

“They won’t work. You can’t fight Boos. I can keep these three at bay, but you need to run.”

“But-”

“Stop being a hero and just worry about yourself! You need to go now!”

The same hand that had held him in place was now pushing Mario forward. The hero stumbles as he turns to make an escape. Only to fumble as he almost ran right into another Boo. The creature already had their eyes covered.

“W-Wario-”

“Just keep an eye on them until you can get a clear path out!”

It wasn’t the fastest escape route. Mario both having to stumble around a terrifying amount of slowly approaching Boos. As well as the pain from his arm seemed to interrupt his concentration with random shocks of intense pain. The mind fog was becoming worse.

Relief came in the form of the nearby forest getting closer. No further Boos appeared, the cold breeze giving relief to Mario’s burning arm. Unable to keep the strength up, unable to take another step, Mario collapsed to his knees. Breathing harsh as his blood started to soak the ground. He barely flinched when Wario appeared again. The latter pulled the damaged arm up.

“Hold still. I need to get this cleaned quickly.” Wario replied softly as he dug through his bag.

Mario didn’t say anything. Barely able to keep his eyes open. His head was pounding, starting to lull to one side…

“Mario!”

Dull blue eyes darted back over to the town. Except…the town was gone. Replaced with a large castle made of rock with lava flowing everywhere. He was back at Bowser’s castle. But…that wasn’t possible.

“Mario, help!”

The voice that was calling out…that was…

“Luigi?”

Wario halted in tearing the red sleeve away, trying to get a better look at the wound, frowning when Mario spoke. “Who?”

But the hero didn’t reply. Wario peered up to find Mario staring intensely to where they’d just fled from. The normally blue eyes were now colored a dull gray. Worry turned to panic when Mario started to move back towards the town.

“Shit- Hey, no! No, you’re not going to move,” Wario growled immediately, forcing Mario back down. Surprised at how strong the little guy was. “Stop fighting me!”

“Let me go, my brother’s in there! Luigi, I’m coming, just hold on!”

“You idiot, there’s no one here but us!”

“I said let go, he could be hurt!”

“It’s not real, it’s a-” Wario’s grip fell lax when Mario elbowed him in the gut. Having to push past the pain quickly to grab Mario once more. Wrapping one arm tightly around the other’s chest while placing the free hand over Mario’s eyes.

Artwork by: Nikikeya (Ao3 Account)

“Listen to me! Listen to-”

“I won’t! Why are you-”

“Just listen to what I’m saying! Just listen… It’s not real. Do you remember where you are?”

Mario was furious with how calm the other was being. “I’m at Bowser castle, he has my brother, why won’t you let me go!”

“What were you doing before you got there?”

“Why are you-”

“Think about it Mario. Really think about it. What were you doing?”

“I was- …I was…” The hero faltered, his determination slowly melting away. “I was…helping a town…”

“What were you helping with?”

“...They were having an issue…someone was attacked… Princess Peach requested that I go help.”

“Okay. So is it possible that you could suddenly be at Bowser’s castle?”

“N-No… Wario, what’s happening?”

“Do you remember the Boos? One bit you and their teeth have some pretty powerful venom.”

“Venom? Am I going to-”

“You’re not going to die. The venom causes hallucinations. What you’re seeing is not there. Are you hearing your brother shouting still?”

“...No.”

“Do you believe me now that no one is in trouble? Besides you with your damaged arm.”

“Yeah.”

“Okay, I’m going to let you go. Do not open your eyes for anything until I give you the all clear.”

Mario gripped onto Wario’s hand that was covering his eyes. “How do I know you won’t try anything?”

“Stop being an idiot! I’ve been trying to help you this entire time! Grambi, stop being stubborn. Don’t open your eyes, I’m not going to hurt you.”

Mario didn’t fight this time. Keeping his eyes tightly shut as he felt himself be moved to sit back down on the ground. Not heated rock, just cool grass. Frowning when he hears the sound of fabric being torn. Something wrapped around his eyes, tightly but gently.

“And…done. That’ll help you until I can neutralize the venom.”

Eyes opening again revealed a piece of yellow cloth covering his eyes. Flinching back slightly when something grabbed his wrist.

“Sorry! Sorry, it’s just me,” Wario spoke softly, “I need to keep your arm steady while I work.”

“It’s fine, just… Can you tell me what you’re doing.”

“Yeah, that’s fair. I have to clean and disinfect the wound to get the venom out. It’s going to be a bit of a process and it’s going to hurt… Like, a lot.”

“Joy,” Mario sighed weakly, “Okay, let’s just get this over with.”

He didn’t pull back when Wario gently grabbed his wrist. Biting his bottom lip as his arm started to get the familiar healing stings. Now that his mind was relatively focused, Mario strained his ears. Trying to confirm to himself that everything was okay, as Wario worked. After a few minutes, the hero realized what he’d been hearing wasn’t what he thought he had.

The whistling wind almost sounded like screams. The leaves rustling together almost mimicked the sound of cracking fire. His mind really was playing tricks on him.

“I was hallucinating…” Mario voiced weakly.

“Boos feed off of fear. The venom makes you live your worst fears. A lot of people have died due to stress and a few heart attacks. Or being malnourished…”

The hero shivered weakly at the thought. “Well, that’s horrible to think about. Wish someone could have informed me about this.”

“No one in this kingdom would have any idea about Boos. They aren’t native to the areas and this is the first case that I can confirm there’s an infestation here.”

“But you knew about them?”

“There’s more than just the Mushroom and Dark Kingdom to this place. This…whole situation isn’t fun to deal with on your own… Just take my word for it. Hold still, this is going to sting.”

Mario couldn’t hold back the hiss of pain as something heavy was slathered on. Unintentionally trying to pull his arm away from the sensation. Wario continually offers words to keep Mario calm. The hero couldn’t tell when Wario started to wrap his arm up; he was in so much pain.

“So… Care to tell who this Luigi is?”

“Wha?”

“Luigi, you kept calling out that name when you were freaking out.”

Mario bit his lip before answering. “He’s my brother. More accurately we’re twins, but I’m older.”

He heard Wario snort. “Uh huh, sure, by how many minutes?”

“Dad said it was 20 something minutes.”

“Whoa, that’s quite the stretch.”

“Luigi says that’s why is taller. Baked for a little too long.”

Wario let out another snort, having to pause and collect himself before continuing. “Why isn’t he here now?”

“...He’s not a fan of the hero work.”

“A bit of a worrywart?”

“I mean yes, but I get why. We fought against a giant, fire breathing turtle. I mean, I’m sitting here with hallucination venom in my veins. It’s all just too new…and we have no idea what to expect next.”

“Right, you’re from Earth.”

“Yeah…have you been there before?”

Wario didn’t answer the question. “So, Luigi’s not much of a fighter?”

“He can if he needs to be,” Mario quickly defended.

“But not…”

The hero shuffled weakly. His free hand nervously tapping his knee. “No…he’s not.”

“Well, sounds like there’s way more to that statement.”

“...Luigi had a weakened immune system when we were younger. He’s stronger now, has some issues still, but nothing like before. I still remember how every weekend was spent at the hospital. Our parents tried to appear brave, but they were constantly stressed. I think that worried and panicked stance rubbed off on Luigi. He was terrified the first time he could actually go outside and play. I held his hand the entire time. But we didn’t make it past the patio before he begged to go back inside.”

Wario’s eyes were trained on Mario as he finished wrapping. “And what about you?”

“What about me?”

“Don’t play high and mighty with me now. You were also a kid when this was all going down.”

Mario frowned and turned away slightly. He really didn’t like this prodding. “I won’t say it was a picnic, but I’m fine.”

Eyes still covered, Mario missed the way Wario’s shoulders slumped. The latter gave a heavy sigh as he cradled Mario’s arm between his larger hands. Even with the numerous times he’d playfully tossed around the size difference between them, right now, it hit Wario hard.

It wasn’t just size anymore. It was experience, life experience, knowledge only gained with age.

“Have a younger brother too,” Wario said softly, “Bit of an age gap between us, a few years. We’re both in an underdog situation, he took it harder through. We didn’t have the best life growing up. Stable living was a dream for us. We tried going into business together at some point, but it never worked out. He’s a big dreamer. I’m more practical, if you can believe it.”

Mario merely nodded at that. Not wanting to interrupt and ruin the moment.

“I’ll be honest with you, I only found out about this whole crumbling town thing because I was looking for a job. Came here to see if they needed an extra pair of hands. Wasn’t called to help with an extermination. Wasn’t called period. But money’s tight and… Just…look, I get it. Carrying everything on your shoulders, it sucks. But that doesn’t make it easier knowing it’s going to be hard.”

A weird silence fell between them. It wasn’t uncomfortable but it was heavy.

“Luigi’s not strong,” Mario whispered, “Not…Not physically anyway. But he’s very kind, worries about others, and makes sure everyone’s okay. He’s also quiet and timid. Meeting new people makes him panic, extreme changes aren’t good for him, big unknowns are terrifying.”

“People…kids weren’t nice to him. Saw him as weak, took advantage of him… Every negative interaction just made him close off more… It soon came to a point where I was the only person he felt comfortable around. I tried to help, but it was such a terrible balancing act. I wanted to give him room, but I wanted to stay close in case something happened. Give him a chance to be his own person…but he seemed content just being ‘Mario’s brother’.

“Maybe he’ll find his own life here?”

“Yeah…maybe…”

“Being the older brother is not fun sometimes.”

“I’m worried I’m going to mess everything up somehow. If not with Luigi than with the life we have now. That becoming a hero was just a stupid luck of the draw and I’ll trip and stumble and lose everything. And if that happens, then what? I don’t know how to get us back home. But it’s not like we left that much behind. We are better here… Peach is kind and the Toads like to talk to Luigi…”

“Doesn't make you feel better about the situation.” Wario offered.

“No, it doesn’t.”

Unsure of where to pull the conversation to next, Wario turned his attention back to the damaged arm. Nothing was seeping through the heavy wrappings. A few spots, but not enough to worry about. Mario would get better help when they get back to the castle.

“Okay, I’m going to uncover your eyes. You should be fine. But we’re going to take it slow.”

Mario nodded slowly at the request. Holding still as he felt the blindfold become undone. Both finding it too bright and too dark at the same time as he looked around. There was a moment of relief not seeing the castle. Only to be shocked when his eyes landed on Wario.

The other was covered in cuts, nothing seeming to be too worrisome. But he looked far worse than before this whole thing started. Wario’s right sleeve from his worn yellow shirt had been completely torn off. Now hanging limp from his hands. Mario understood what had been used as his temporary blindfold.

“You look terrible.”

Wario laughed at that. “I feel beautiful compared to you.”

“Ah, fair,” Mario looks down at his arm. A hand cautiously running over the wrappings. “How bad was it?”

Artwork by: Nikikeya (Ao3 Account)

“We’re definitely going to get you to the medical wing as fast as possible. But you’ll be fine. We just need to get to the castle.”

“Probably not a bad idea…” The hero was a little surprised when a comforting weight was placed on his shoulder. Looking up to find Wario staring back. It was a weirdly calm moment. Mario had never seen Wario so…soft before. Coupled with the conversation, Mario wondered if this was going to be the new norm.

Until Wario said, “I’ll accept your apology now.”

“What!?” Mario let out a small yelp as he was strong armed into a side hug. Legs kicking as Wario’s knuckles dug painfully into the top of Mario’s head.

Artwork by: Nikikeya (Ao3 Account)

“I saved your ass even after you were so rude to me! I’m being very forgiving right now.”

“Would you get off!”

“I feel like, now that we’ve bared our souls a little to each other, we’re family now! Not direct family mind you. More like distant cousins. Born in two completely different countries.”

“And your family crawled out from the sewage dump! Seriously, let go!”

“You little rascal. If you’re going to keep up this ‘hero’ business, then you’re gonna need help. Luckily for you, I’m in a generous mood. Next time you have an issue, call me. I’ll be happy to lend my expertise…for a fee, of course.”

“You absolute leech!”

“Ah, I’m so happy we’re back to teasing,” Wario smirked as he gently shook Mario. Eventually letting the hero back down on solid ground again. Still keeping a hand on Mario’s shoulder as the other swayed slightly. “Come on. We should get you back to the castle to get that report in.”

Mario slowly nodded. Silently thankful that Wario kept his hand in place. Not feeling well enough to walk straight and remain upright. “Is there really no way to get these Boos out?”

“Not as far as I’m aware. It’s not like you can suck them up into a vacuum of anything.”

“I…guess not.”

“Take this as a lesson: You’re not going to win every battle.”

“Right,” Mario frowned as something dawned on him, “Um, are we walking all the way back to the castle?”

“Of course not! I drove here.”

“...You drive?”

Wario laughed, giving Mario’s shoulder a shake, “You’re such a silly little man.”

They arrived back at the main dirt road. The group of Toads had disappeared. Mario hoped that they had the wherewithal to head to their camp for the evening and didn’t enter the town to search for them. Worries for the others fell away when steered towards a large bush. Finding a large motorbike with an attached sidecar resting on the other side from where they stood.

“You’ve got to be kidding me…” Mario yelped as he was easily lifted off the ground and gently placed into said sidecar. “Warn me next time!”

Wario raises a brow. “Next time?”

“...Shut up, you know what I meant.”

Instead of replying, Wario instead grabbed his leather jacket. Plucking Mario’s hat off his head, throwing it onto the hero’s lap, before casually draping the jacket over him. “Here, keep that on. It’s going to get cold.”

Mario merely nods at the request. Grunting weakly as a helmet was forced onto his head. Missing the vivid purple it was colored as, to focus on the thick goggles being placed over his eyes.

“There we go, it’ll work for the short trip. We’ll get you a better fitting helmet later. You know, for next time.”

“It was a slip of the tongue and you know it.”

“Sure it was.”

An attempt at an argument was drowned out with a roar of the engine. Wario let out an inaudible huff as he settled down, his own helmet secured on his head and the motorbike set off.

Mario wasn’t sure when he started to drift off. The engine, while loud, was dampened by the padding in the helmet. The only part the wind reached were the small parts of his face that couldn’t be covered. But even then, it wasn’t uncomfortable. The ride was smooth, the rumbling seeming to add another level of comfort weirdly. They had barely left the town in their dust before Mario’s head lulled to the side, fast asleep.

Wario chuckled to himself giving a side glance to his passenger. “Kid needs to calm down… But he’ll be alright…”

#new record!

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#new record!