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s-creations · 2 years ago

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Harsh Words

It's not easy being Luigi…

Even more so when his own thoughts are against him.

Beginning Scene Inspired by Overalls and funny hats: Twitter: https://twitter.com/OveralNFunnyHat/status/1628867456847560705 Tumblr: https://www.tumblr.com/overallsandfunnyhats/710085046626811904/workplace-humor?source=share

Fandom: Super Mario & Related Fandoms Rating: Teen and Up Audiences Relationships: Luigi & Mario (Nintendo), Waluigi & Wario (Nintendo), Luigi & Wario (Nintendo), Luigi & Waluigi (Nintendo) Warnings/Additional Tags: There is cursing!, Internal Conflict, Mental Health, Self-Esteem Issues, Beginning Scene Inspired by Art, Luigi's not doing well.

(Earth)

Spike was a hard boss to work for.

If it wasn’t about the long list of tasks that needed to be finished that day no matter how numerous, it was being yelled at. If it wasn’t being yelled at, it was being told how terrible they were at their job. If it wasn’t being told they were wrong with every decision they made, it was being informed on how easily they could be replaced.

There couldn’t even be the benefit of a good paycheck or wonderful benefits that warranted why staying was a good idea. Mario seemed more often than not ending each day absolutely furious. Barely holding himself back from slamming their apartment door as he grumbled under his breath about ‘That job’ and ‘That man’.

Luigi took it all in stride. He knew they couldn’t just leave. No matter how many times Mario threatened to do so. Finding a new job would be hard since Spike barely gave them enough time to breath. Let alone try to find a better paying position.

Along with the issue of their contract they had to sign when they first started out.

They were young, stupid, and desperate for some kind of stable job and income. Spike was good with his poison words. Saying that the 5 year work long requirement in the contract was just a formality. Every contract has something like it! You know, so someone couldn’t just double cross the other part and run off without facing some legal repercussions.

“Two more months,” Mario firmly stated as he took a seat at the small kitchen table, “Two more months and we’ll be out of that stupid contract. Then we’ll strike out on our own. It’ll be so much better when we’re running the show. You’ll see.”

Luigi would merely give a small nod and a smile as his response.

The younger brother knew he should have spoken up at that point. It was the perfect time. But Mario was still going on about how their business was going to run Spike’s into the ground. It would just upset him further. Mario didn’t need the added stress.

Luigi sighed softly, letting it go.

He wasn’t sure what had brought Spike’s full attention onto him. Maybe the pompous boss found out his few (only) full time contract workers were planning on leaving soon. Or just decided that Luigi was an easier target to let his frustration out on as Mario would fight back.

Whatever the reason was, Spike had just decided one day to start sending jabbing remarks on Luigi’s work performance. No yelling, no cussing, no confrontations. Just small passing remarks related to whatever Luigi was working on.

“Good thing you remember to turn off the water before you started. Was worried I would have to save you from drowning.”

“Hey, you made sure to pack up the actual required tools, good job! Figured your scattered brain would forget something.”

“Careful with that pipe, it’s taller than you. Which is saying something given how much of a string bean you are.”

All of this was followed by a few beats of silence before Spike would laugh out, “Hey, lighten up, it’s a joke! A little workplace humor.”

Luigi would offer a tight smile and a forced laugh. Because, what else was he supposed to do?

He already didn’t have the best confidence. Bullies and judgemental adults made sure to break him down while growing up. Luigi was always doing or saying something wrong. The other person never really gives a reason as to why they did or say what they did. All of it boiling down to: if Luigi was doing it, it was wrong.

Mario did his best to help. He was an amazing older brother and Luigi would never fault him. But Mario wasn’t always able to catch everything, he had his own things to worry about, and Luigi learned how to hide his problems. He figured he would be able to handle it. They were only going to be working a few more months and they can leave.

He didn’t realize how hard these comments were hitting him.

It was a few days after Mario’s most recent assurance rant. The brothers on a simple repair job, Spike along for the journey. Who was currently with Mario in the kitchen looking over the issue.

Luigi, somehow, had been roped into hanging some of the home owner’s artwork. No doubt Spike had promised the grunt work being done for some extra pay. The younger brother was pretty sure it was ‘under the table’ money.

How Spike wasn’t out of business yet was the biggest mystery.

Humming softly some nameless tune, Luigi set up the small step ladder. Climbing up easily with a hammer in hand. The owners had already informed Luigi where they wanted the pictures to be hung. Making sure the plumber was clear on the instructions before walking off. But Luigi decided to double double check the measurements. Just in case.

Because he really didn’t want anyone to be upset with him.

He was already feeling a little unsure about…everything . Being reprimanded just that morning by Spike for forgetting to pack a few tools. They weren’t even essential to the job, Luigi was pretty sure the boss was just in a bad mood and needed something to focus on. Then he made a mess of the coffee, pouring the liquid everywhere, even on his own bare hand. Mario having to remind him to leave his signature green cap at the station before they finally left.

Luigi’s already low confidence was now a balancing act over a pit of lava. Now being tasked with something not really falling under his job description, he felt his knees lightly knocking together.

Taking a deep breath to try and calm his nerves, Luigi bent down to grab a few nails that were resting on the small hall table. Placing two in his mouth, the third was pressed against the wall. Hammer up, ready to swing and-

“I don’t know Luigi. You sure a guy like you knows how to handle a hammer?”

Luigi’s entire body tensed up hearing Spike. Throat closing up from fear. The balancing act crumbled and he hit the lava hard.

Spike, either not noticing Luigi’s turmoil or not caring about it, threw his head back and laughed. Slapping Luigi’s arm ‘playfully’. Causing the other to almost fall off. “I’m just kidding! Just a little workplace humor, don’t stress!”

Still uncaring on how quiet Luigi was being, Spike walked off. No doubt going back to the van to wait while the brothers cleaned up. “Don’t overwork yourself!”

Luigi reached up to rub where the hit had landed. But he didn’t really feel the pain. Quickly moving to sit down as his shaky legs almost caused the ladder to topple over. He really should just get off. But he couldn’t bring himself to care.

The commotion and following silence caught Mario’s attention. The older brother poked his head out of the kitchen doorway. Worry flooding over the anger finding Luigi in his current state. Slumped over and not fully there.

“Hey, Luigi?” Mario reached out to gently place a hand on his brother’s shoulder. Flinching back when Luigi’s shot up, dull eyes landing on him. “Are you okay? What did he say?”

“What? Oh…Oh, nothing! Don’t worry about it. Just…Just a silly little joke among co-workers.” Luigi was clearly over-exaggerating his movements and emotions. Putting on a performance to try and ease Mario��s worry.

When Mario gave a look of not buying the act, the younger brother stood back up. Hammer held high with determination. A painfully forced smile plastered onto his face. “Well, better get back to work!”

Performance still on display, Luigi turned back to the bare wall. Only to immediately freeze. Feeling intimidated, like the drywall was a predator, suddenly going to swallow him whole.

What if he hits the wall too hard and creates a hole?

What if he misheard where the owners wanted the paintings?

What if his hits vibrate the wall so hard that a pipe bursts?

What if he falls off and the ladder damages the wall?

What if he messes up so badly that Spike fires them?

Luigi wasn’t sure how long he was standing there. But the hammer was eventually lowered, eyes dropping as well. Unable to look over to her brother in fear of seeing disappointment written on Mario’s face.

“Um…actually, could you help me with this?”

Still unable to look over, Luigi didn’t fight back as Mario gently took the tool from his hand.

“Sure thing bro. Why don’t you step down?”

Luigi moved slowly as he climbed down. Eyes remained lowered. Shoulders slumped in defeat as Mario hammered the first nail in.

Harsh words still being whispered into his ear.

_____________________________

(The Mushroom Kingdom)

Luigi jerks awake as his bedside alarm goes off. Groaning softly as he rolls over to turn it off. His hand slipping off with his arm left dangling over the edge.

He really didn’t want to get up. His mind in a familiar dark fog. An unseen weight holding him down. Wanting nothing more than to just roll over and fall back asleep.

But he knew that wasn’t going to be possible. Not today. Princess Peach had called the night before, asking for their help. Not hero business, plumbing related. The princess had wanted to build a new addition to the castle town. Wanting the brother’s help and saying it would be a good way for them to connect with the ‘common Toad’.

“You may be heroes, but you also need to show that you’re able to converse with everyone.” Peach explained.

“So…kind of like a publicity stunt? But in a good way.” said Mario.

“Exactly!”

It was a solid plan before, it made sense. Considering the brothers had yet to really communicate with the civilians from the kingdom they were protecting. The brothers happily agreed to help bright and early the next day.

Now Luigi wished he hadn’t.

But he couldn’t avoid this.

Begrudgingly, he tossed the sheets aside and slowly slid from the bed. Dressing slowly, settling his familiar green cap into place, he let out a slow sigh. Luigi needed to set his face before heading downstairs. He didn’t want Mario to worry…

He already does. He knows I’m a walking blunder. I can’t do anything right.

Luigi closed his closet door with more force than what he meant.

“Luigi, you okay?” Mario called up from the kitchen, his voice muffled by the closed bedroom door.

“Uh, yeah! Just…the door slipped from my hand, sorry! I’ll be down soon!” Welp, this was not a good way to start off this day. Mario no doubt on high alert, keeping a sharp ear out just in case something else happened.

Because he knows me. He knows how much of a mistake I am.

Luigi quickly shook his head. Patting his cheeks a few times, letting out a sharp huff. “Don’t. Don’t start. That doesn’t help, you know that. Just put on a smile and get through the day. Once you start working, you’ll feel better. Yeah! Work will help and Mario will be there. It’ll all be good.”

Until I mess up.

The bedroom door suffered this time.

“Luigi?” Mario called out again, heavy worry coloring his voice.

Stupid! Idiot! Why do I keep doing this? Why can’t I just be normal!

“Fine! I’m fine! Heading down!” Luigi frantically covered up his mistake. Having a death grip on the handrail while slowly descending the stairs. The last that he needed was to take a tumble.

“Morning!” Luigi cheerfully called out.

“Morning…” Mario’s reply was subdued. Eyes on his brother while he sat down.

“So, what’s for breakfast? Need a good start to the day. Especially for the day we have planned. How different do you think internal plumbing here is compared to Earth? I mean, beyond the obvious ‘used for transportation’ variety. Do you think that pipes are just a universally used method of draining? Or maybe it’s because of-”

Luigi cut himself off when Mario gently grabbed his wrist. The older brother carefully ran his hands over both arms, around Luigi’s shoulders and neck. Adding slight pressure or giving further attention before focusing on running his fingers through Luigi’s hair.

“Um, M-Mario?”

“Are you feeling okay? Did you bump your head? Are your powers acting up?

“Wha- No, I’m fine!” Luigi laughed weakly, “I’m fine. Nothing to worry about.”

Mario still looked suspicious at Luigi’s words. The stern face softened suddenly. Shoulders lowering as he placed a hand on Luigi’s cheek.

“We don’t have to go today and you’re not feeling up to it. We could take the day off. Peach will understand.”

He knows!

He knows he knows he knows he knows he knows he knowshe knowshe knowshe knowshe knowshe knowshe knowshe knowshe knowshe knowsQuick, say something!he knowshe knowshe knowshe knowshe knowshe knowshe knowshe knowshe knowshe knowshe knowshe knowshe knowshe knowshe knowshe knowshe knowshe knowshe knowshe knowshe knowshe knowshe knowshe knowshe knows-Stop being a coward and just say something!

“N-No! No, I’m fine! We can go, I’ll be okay.”

“Are you sure?”

“Y-Yeah!” Luigi’s smile was weak.

Mario wasn’t comforted by this. “Be honest with me Luigi.”

“I am.”

“Weegie.”

Uh oh, the soft nickname was being used. Mario wasn’t backing down. Letting out a small sigh, Luigi allowed himself to lean into the touch. Eyes dropping.

“I’m feeling a little off right now…”

Mario nodded slowly. “Okay. Do you know how bad it is today?”

Luigi shrugged weakly.

“Do you want to cancel?”

“W-What about-”

“It was just about us giving a hand, nothing big. Peach will understand. They'll be fine if we’re not there.”

Biting his bottom lip, Luigi really considered it. The idea of just staying home, relaxing on the couch and just being with his brother. It’s absolutely what he wanted to do.

Coward.

“N-No, I can’t just keep hiding away. I’m supposed to start facing things head on, right?”

“Well..yeah, but-”

“It’s a safe environment, doing a job that we’ve done a number of times. Plus, this was supposed to be a way for us to better connect with the Toad, yeah? I want to do this. Let me test my boundaries where I know I can have an out if needed.”

Something flashed over Mario’s face. Luigi unable to identify what it was before it disappeared. The older brother slowly nodded with a smile.

“Okay…we play by your limits today. But-”

“The moments it’s to much, I’ll let you know. Promise.”

While Mario still looked on edge, he nodded and dropped it.

Breakfast and coffee consumed, they headed off to the familiar castle. Meeting the brothers at the Warp Pipe was Peach. Who explained the situation for them as the three made their way to the construction site.

“We’ve noticed an influx of people wanting to move into the kingdom,” said Peach, “Namely deserters from Bowser’s army.”

“Seriously?” The brothers said together, clearly surprised.

Peach smiled, “Not everyone’s going to agree with their ruler.”

“But, can we trust them?” Mario asked.

“If it means starting to build bridges of some variety, then I won’t say no. Plus, it’s my job as a ruler to help anyone who asks.”

“Even Bowser?”

“Ah, we’ll put that on the bottom of the list of worries for now.”

They arrived soon enough. The brothers were surprised to see all of the equipment that was already up. A large number of Toads were rushing around. A few shouting out orders with others were running off to complete them.

Luigi whistled low. “You guys work fast.”

“We’ve gotten really efficient at building since Bowser’s started attacking.”

One of the Toad workers finally caught sight of Peach and, mainly, the brothers. Letting out squeaks of surprise before shouting, “The brothers are here!”

That started a ripple effect. A round of cheering began and ended with the brothers being surrounded by very eager Toads.

Luigi offered a weak wave and an even weaker smile. He was used to Toads, he’d been around enough to be comfortable around them. However, this was a large number of them. All clearly viewing the twins as celebrities. Usually, the Toads were focused on the issues, political or otherwise. But this group was absolutely star struck.

An uncomfortable tingle traveled along his spine.

The gloves warming slightly.

He was getting really uncomfortable

W-Why are they looking at me so eagerly?

They don’t know me.

They don’t know who I really am.

They wouldn’t be that amazed if they knew.

“Eh, they’re not that impressive!” A loud voice called out.

Once, Mario would wince at the voice with Luigi worried about how this meeting would be ending. Now, however, both brothers perked up hearing it.

Wario and Waluigi easily parted through the crowd of Toads. Greeting the other brothers with wide smirks.

“As if we didn’t have enough issues to worry about.” Mario commented, clearly teasing.

“Happy to see you pests here and doing actual work,” said Waluigi.

“Working on your house wasn’t enough?”

“W-What are you t-two doing here?” asked Luigi.

Wario laughed before flashing his smirk, “We’re construction workers! Qualified and everything.”

“One of our earliest forms of grunt work.” Waluigi lamented.

“Plus, who wouldn’t want two extra pairs of hands attached to two Grambi-like physiques helping them? Check it!”

The Toads erupted into cheers and applause again as the brother threw out pose after pose. Each more ridiculous than the last. Peach clapped along good naturedly. A rather tense smile on her face as if holding back laughter.

Mario and Luigi, on the other hand, were roaring with laughter. Practically hanging off of each other in an attempt to remain upright.

“Only if said Grambi squashed and stretched what it was supposed to be like!” Mario called out. Only to be strong armed into a headlock. Knuckles lightly digging into the top of the human’s head.

“You take that back you!” said Wario, the smirk indicating he wasn’t really offended.

“Absolutely not!” Mario defended, eventually wiggling his way out of the hold. Going for a daring move and lightly jabbed at Wario’s stomach. “I doubt wet warthog was the given blueprint for ‘peek’ creation.”

“You’re one to talk, Mini-Me.”

“Why do you keep calling me that!”

“Because it pisses you off.”

“Don’t make me give you a fireball!”

“Ha! As if! I don’t know which will be harder for you to accomplish. Aiming right, getting the required height, not to make sure you’re not burning anything else down.”

Luigi couldn’t help but chuckle at the older brother's antics. Happy to see they were at least attempting to get along. Now it was the danger of how far this ‘play fighting’ could go before it became actual fighting. He was distracted when Waluigi popped up next to him, seemingly out of nowhere. A red rose somehow found its way into Waluigi’s mouth.

“W-Where do you e-even get those?” Luigi asked, nodding towards said flower.

Waluigi rather dramatically pulled said flower from his mouth and replied, “I grow them. I am a gardener, duh.”

At his last word, Waluigi started to swing his rose down. Intending to merely tap at Luigi’s cap.

Luigi, however, tensed up immediately. His mind shouting at him to ‘Run! He’s going to hit you!’. But his legs wouldn’t respond, feeling like they were stone.

Why is he going to hit me? What did I do?

Did I make him angry again? But how? When?

I thought we were making progress, was I wrong?

Of course I was wrong! Why on Earth would anyone want to-

“Luigi!”

Mario’s voice hit him like a boulder. Luigi swore he would have stumbled back if not for the grip on his shoulders. The fog cleared just as quickly as it arrived. Luigi’s eyes darted around and took in the fact that everyone was staring at him now.

“Luigi.” Panicked eyes shot back to Mario. The older brother only took only a second before saying, “We’ll be right back, just give us a moment.”

Wario, who had joined to stand by his brother’s side, mumbled, “Did you see that?”

“Yes,” was Waluigi’s short reply.

“That was-”

“Concerning? More than a little.”

Luigi didn’t pull back as he was led away from the large group. Eyes fixated on Mario’s back as they headed behind some large piles of supplies and equipment.

The moment they stopped, Luigi whispered, “I’m sorry.”

“You have nothing to be sorry for.” Mario quickly assured, “I just… Are you sure you’re okay?”

Luigi swallowed weakly. Going to rub his hands together, only for Mario to grab onto them. The silent offer of ‘squeeze when you need to’ given.

“I-I thought I was okay… Or at least okay enough to help with this.”

“How about we go home then?” Mario kept his smile in place as the pressure around his hands increased significantly.

“B-But won’t that look weird? And what if they ask questions and-”

“Weegie, it’s fine, we don’t need to be here.”

“But-”

Luigi winced slightly as Mario freed a hand to gently place it on the back of his head. Foreheads being pressed together as Luigi clung to Mario’s other hand.

“I need you to breathe with me Lu. Can you do that?” Luigi nodded, “Okay, in and out. Just like we’ve done before. In and out. Nice and slow, okay? I’m right here. In and out. I’m right here…”

It took a few minutes for Luigi to feel himself relax. Even then, he kept Mario’s hand in his own.

“There we go… Feeling a little better?” Mario asked with a smile.

“Y-Yeah…”

“Do you want to go home?”

“...No.”

Mario was a little surprised by this. “Are you sure?”

“I-I know I have an out…but I want to t-try,” Luigi said, “I don’t g-get these options if we’re going against Bowser.”

“...Alright, but please don’t push yourself, okay? Please…”

“Okay.”

“And you’ll tell me right away, yes?”

“Yes.”

“Okay…well. Let’s go help build some houses, yeah?”

Luigi smiles softly, “Yeah.”

“Okay…”

Neither moved right away. Both seemed nervous about what the next step was going to be. As always, Mario took charge. Giving a nod and heading back to the group, Luigi in tow. They greeted those who’d stayed by just in case. A few Toads, Peach, and the other brothers. Mario trying to ease everyone’s worries.

Luigi attempted to offer comfort as well. But fell quiet upon seeing the worried stares sent by Wario and Waluigi.

He wasn’t able to focus. His internal monologues were telling him that he was doing so many things wrong. His nerves were on edge because not only were Mario’s eyes constantly following him. But Wario and Waluigi’s as well. However, their attention was making things so much worse. Luigi knew unintentionally, but he felt like he was going to snap.

He kept dropping items. Tripping over nothing. Forgetting very basic facts of being a plumber.

Heck, he forgot what a wrench was!

It felt like every part of him was being torn away. His powers acting up, trying to find some way out with the gloves warm. It was all driving him crazy.

As he was passing under scaffolding, his name was called out.

“Hey, Luigi!” A Purple-capped Toad wearing a hard hat waved down at the younger brother.

“Oh, h-hey, something wrong?”

“Nope, but I do need help with something.”

“S-Sure!”

“Think you can toss that hammer to me?”

Luigi turned to where Toad was nodding to. The nearby toolbox holding the item they’d requested.

“H-How about I hand it u-up to you instead of tossing it?” Luigi suggested as he grabbed it.

“Nah, you’re good. One solid throw and we’ll be in business.”

I’m going to damage something.

I’m going to hit them!

I’m going to be so off with my aim I’ll hit the castle!

“I-I would feel better if I just h-handed it to you.”

“Wait, Luigi, hold on! The scaffolding isn’t graded for-”

Luigi had already stepped onto the lower rung. Free hand reached up to grab another and he lifted himself off the ground. The scaffolding immediately protested. Letting out a warning groan before the metal underfoot broke completely.

The Toads standing on top quickly jumped off. The Purple-capped one being caught in Luigi’s arms. The scaffolding gave another groan before toppling over. Crashing right into the partially completed house it once stood before

The two other Toads jumped off on the other side. Knocking over planks of wood as they scrambled away from the danger. The planks clattered to the ground, sending larger tools either into the air or rolling down the main road. Now seeing the danger, more Toads rushed off in panic. Sending more things flying. A domino effect of running tools, run away equipment, and more houses being knocked over only lasted for a few minutes.

When the dust cleared, hours of work were gone.

Some Toads were trying to pull their companions out of the rubble. Others were calling out, trying to figure out what all had been lost. Peach was ordering those who were nearby and still standing to go back to the castle for further help. Mario, Wario, and Waluigi spring into action. Working on clearing out larger and heavier pieces of debris that the Toads couldn’t move.

“Is that everyone?” Peach called out, “We need a headcount! Are we missing someone?”

At that, numerous Toads shouted out “Luigi!” before pointing towards the castle. Namely, the gardens.

Mario, who’d been checking over a few Toads, shot up at that. Panicked filled eyes scanning over the crowd. Not finding his brother anywhere. “Where did he go?”

The same group of Toads pointed towards the same direction once more. Mario taking off the next second.

“Think you can hold down the fort?” Wario quickly asked Peach. Who gave a short nod and waved the other brothers on.

Mario reached the gardens first. Running through the rows of trimmed hedges and flowers. Still not finding the green he was frantically looking for. When Luigi wasn’t found there, Mario turned to the hedge maze.

“Of course Greenie wouldn’t make this easy,” Waluigi grumbled as he stopped by Mario’s side, “Like finding a green needle in a green haystack.”

“It’s large, but not that large. We’ll split as soon as we can. Cover more ground.” Wario offered.

Mario nodded weakly. “Just…when you find him, be…be gentle.”

Wario pointedly looked at Waluigi, who shouted back, “What!?”

Merely shaking his head, Wario patted the hero’s shoulder. “We’ll find him. Don’t worry.”

He rushed into the maze first, shouting out ‘Right!’ upon reaching the first turn. Hearing Mario call out ‘Forward!’ and Waluigi says ‘Left! …Apparently!’.

It was the last Wario heard from the other two. Soon the only sound being his own footsteps and heavy breathing. The walls of green eventually blurring together.

The pathway eventually reached a decorated open space. A small river cutting through it with a white and pink ornate bridge to be used to cross over. Two tall bushes with pink flowers framed the breaks in the hedges that allowed the river to flow through.

Sitting on the banks was Luigi. Back facing Wario. Seeming unaware that anyone else was there with him.

“...Alright…be gentle.” Wario let out a sigh before walking over.

He stood at Luigi’s side, waiting for an indication that the younger brother knew he was there. Which was merely a quick glance up before Luigi looked forward again. Wario took that as the opening he needed. Sitting down, crossing his legs.

It remained relatively quiet. The river trickling through, the wind rustling the leaves, Luigi occasionally sniffing. Wario took note of the red, puffy blood-shot eyes, wet cheeks, and ruffled mustache.

“...Are you hurt?” Wario started off, “You ran off before we could check on you.”

No response. Luigi stared at his hands resting in his lap.

“...Remember what I told you when we first met? About how holding things in is not a good thing? That advice needs to be taken to heart again.” Wario’s voice was soft.

Luigi bit his bottom lip, clearly mulling the words over. An internal fight occurred. Hands moving to grip onto his knees.

“You’re in a safe space.”

That seemed to work. Luigi let out a slow sigh. Rocking a little bit before saying, “I…don’t like myself sometimes. A lot of times, actually. It’s…It’s this weird voice…or it’s my voice? I guess I’m thinking about these comments… I’m telling myself these things?

“What does this voice say?”

Luigi’s hands moved from his knees to pull and pluck at his gloves. “A lot… That I can’t do anything right. How much of a mistake I am. I run through situations and how I could ruin something…”

“And this happens a lot?”

“Yeah… I thought I was doing fine. I hadn’t had an ‘episode’ for so long. But I think the craziness of everything recently has kept it quiet. I just feel stupid… I wanted to help and I ended up making everything worse.”

“Hey now, that’s rather unfair to you.” Wario couldn’t help but wince when a jolt of energy shot out from the younger brother’s shoulder.

Luigi stood up and walked away. Arms wrapped around himself tightly. “No it’s not, you saw what happened back there! I caused all of that! I think I’m doing something right before life just kicks me back down. Everything I touch just falls apart. I’m a walking disaster.”

He winces as his gloves heated dangerously, letting out a warning hum. Luigi frantically shook his head as Wario reached out to help. The younger brother took a few minutes to slow his breathing, eyes closed. The humming died down soon enough.

Out of the danger zone once more, Luigi flopped back down. Pulling his hat over his eyes. “I’m supposed to be a hero. But I trip over everything and have these ‘powers’ with barely any control over them. I was damaged enough before. It just keeps getting worse. I’m not a hero. I’m a mistake.”

Wario felt a flare of absolute rage rise up. Causing him to clench his hands a few times to calm down.

“Who told you that?” Wario asked.

Luigi peeked out from under his cap. “W-What?”

“I asked who told you this. Because I know for a fact you don’t think these things on your own. So, who told you that?”

“...A lot of people. Parents, teachers, kids…bosses. I was ‘The Leech’, ‘The Shadow’. I would bring Mario down, everything I said or did was wrong. I was…just a waste of space…”

“Well, what do they know?” Wario huffed. Standing up so suddenly that Luigi actually fell back.

“W-What?” Luigi meekly voiced again.

“What do they know? Why are you listening to such absolute pieces of shit? Those people are worthless if they think they just get to say stuff like that to you. If anything, they are the waste of space!”

“B-But- But- But-” Luigi yelped as he was lifted up, gently, from his underarms.

“You started up a business with your brother. You faced down the King of the Koopas and kicked his ass! You have control, kind of, over lightning! You yelled at my brother!”

Luigi was placed on his feet. Wario now gripped the younger brother’s shoulders as he continued. “You’re brave, strong, and determined! You see the best in people, even in someone like me! You know when you need to step in! You’re amazing, you’re the best!”

Shining blue eyes were on Wario with admiration, with a hint of trepidation. “I…I don’t know…”

“Well, I know. Peach knows. Your brother knows. You’ve spent all this time believing those asses whose opinions are just shitty. But you don’t listen to Mario? You’re clearly listening to the wrong people.”

“Wario-”

“Maybe Mario hasn’t been loud enough, but I can handle that! I want you to repeat after me. I am the best!”

Luigi was a little dumbfounded by this all and didn’t respond. That didn’t deter Wario though. Who now gripped Luigi’s upper arm and gently shook him.

“Come on Greenie, let me hear you say it! I am the best!”

“I-I am the best?”

“This isn’t a question, you’re not questioning it, you’re stating it! I am the best!”

“I…I am the best.”

“Good, now louder!”

“I-I am the best.”

“Louder and with confidence!”

“I am the best.”

“Louder!”

“I am the best!”

“Hell yes, who’s the best!?”

“I am!”

“Who can handle anything!?”

“I can!”

“Who could beat Bowser single handedly!”

“I-I wouldn’t go that far but thank you for thinking I could!”

Wario laughed as he eagerly ruffled Luigi’s hair. “You’re getting the hang of it! You need to be louder than your negative thoughts. Because you’re better than them, right?”

Luigi gave a determined nod, uncaring that his hat was skewed to hide about half of his face. “Y-Yeah.”

“Don’t have that confidence slip now.”

“I-I’m not, I’m just a little tired.”

“I’m sure today has been draining, huh? How about we go find your brother and-”

“Luigi!”

Wario turned just in time to see Mario jump over the river. Because why would he just use the bridge placed there for that purpose when he could just jump? He’d already collected Luigi into a tight hug as Waluigi came rushing over. Panting hard as he stood by his brother.

“Look a little winded there bro.” Wario casually commented.

“You know…I hate…running.” Waluigi puffed back.

“Eh, you have those long legs, you’re fine.”

“Shut up.”

Finally able to release some tension, Mario pulled back slightly. Looking Luigi over before asking, “Are you okay?”

“I’m…better. I’m getting better,” Luigi confessed, “Wario helped.”

“I heard. Didn’t know you could shout that loud.”

The Mario brothers let out strangled cries of surprise as Wario wrapped an arm around them both. Shaking them with a laugh. “The old ‘yell until you feel better’ method is a family favorite.”

Luigi couldn’t help but laugh as Mario rolled his eyes. The younger brother fell quiet when someone gently poked his forehead. Looking up to find Waluigi.

“I told you,” he started, “Being my rival is a prestigious title to have bestowed upon you. It’s not something I just hand out. I wouldn’t have given it to you unless I saw you as someone good enough to rival me. Got it?”

Luigi gave a short nod with a determined smile. “Got it.”

“Good, now, let’s get out of here. I’m sure everyone’s still freaking out.”

Luigi faltered at that. “H-How mad do you think they are?”

“Let’s just go talk to them.” Mario said, offering a smile as he wrapped an arm around his brother’s shoulder.

“They’ll understand,” said Wario.

Waluigi added on, “It’s not like you intentionally did it.”

Turns out, they were right.

Upon returning, Peach called out happily, “You found him!”

That pulled the nearby Toad’s attention to the approaching group. All placing whatever they were carrying down to rush over. Namely to Luigi. All asking if he was okay, did he get hurt, why’d he run off like that?

“You’re not…upset?” Luigi asked nervously.

“You didn’t mean it.” A Red Toad called out.

“Yeah,” A Yellow Toad said, “It was an accident.”

A Green Toad shrugged, “Honestly, Bowser has done worse.”

A Purple Toad quickly adding, “But maybe listen to instructions next time? We have our hard hats on for a reason.”

Given how late in the day it was, it was decided cleaning up would be the better focus for the rest of the time of that day. Construction starting back up tomorrow. The four brothers were offered a room in the castle. Luigi extremely happy to not have to wait too much longer on getting the dirt and grime off. Collapsing onto the large four post bed with a contented sigh. Uncaring when hearing the door open, knowing it was Mario.

That didn’t prepare him for the sudden weight to hit him in the gut. Luigi letting out an ‘Oof!’ as Mario actually flopped onto him. There was a slight tussle between them until Mario was able to wrap his arms around Luigi. Pinning the younger brother’s at his side.

“Gotcha!” Mario cheered with a smirk.

“No, come on, I’m tired!” Luigi attempted to argue back at that, Mario flopping back onto the bed with his brother in tow.

“There, we’re laying down. Now sleep.”

“You know this is horribly uncomfortable.”

Mario let out a dramatic sigh before releasing Luigi and rolling onto his back. They remained like this, staring up at the dark pink canopy. Relaxing further into the plush mattress.

Mario eventually says, “I know I keep asking. But are you okay?”

“Yeah, I’m getting there,” Luigi answered. Another pause was given until Luigi rolled onto his side to look at his brother. “Are you okay?”

“Yeah…I mean…” Mario huffed before rolling to face Luigi as well, “I’ll admit, I am feeling a little off.”

“What do you mean?”

“Like…I feel on edge. Like I’m expecting something bad is going to happen at any moment.”

“...Bowser’s been quiet for a while. Are you worried he’s up to something?”

“No… Well, wait, yes, but that’s not what the feeling is. It’s more like… This is going to sound weird. But I’m expecting something bad to happen…to you.”

“Me?”

“Like I’ll be living my biggest fear soon.”

Luigi frowned softly. “Guess me running off today didn’t help that.”

“I just think we're both on edge right now.”

“...Do you want to stay in my room tonight?”

Mario smiled, looking very relieved. “If you’re okay with it.”

“I wouldn’t have suggested it if I wasn’t okay with it. Don’t worry big bro, Luigi’s here to keep you safe!”

While he knew Luigi was just copying what has been said towards him before, Mario was happy to hear those words. They eventually got under the covers, Luigi turning off the bedside lamp. But relaxing back into their pillows. Swapping stories and reminiscing.

Mario was part way through his most recent random thought about this world when he heard Luigi snoring. Looking over to confirm his brother was fast asleep.

Even with how late it was, with how bone tired he was, with having his brother so close to him, Mario couldn’t follow Luigi’s example. Dry eyes staring up at the darkness hanging over him.

Peaking back over to check Luigi was still asleep, Mari inched closer. Shifting so Luigi’s left arm was wrapped around him, Mario gently laid his head on his brother’s chest. The sound of the younger’s heartbeat easily drowned out whatever fears were plaguing Mario.

Arms reaching up to wrap his arms around his brother, Mario had no issues with finally falling asleep.

“Well…this is both curious and worrisome.” E. Gadd mumbled softly, peering up from his scanner and the information that was still being flashed across the screen.

He was standing on the border that divided the Mushroom Kingdom and the Dark Lands. The darkness of midnight making it impossible to see anything from either kingdom. The moon providing no help.

But E. Gadd wasn’t worried about that. His concern lied to what would be hidden away even if it was the middle of the day.

Polterpup whined softly as the scientist stared out into the void.

“It can’t be helped. It’s becoming far more severe of an issue than I previously thought. It’s not just Boos, but even Ecto-Ghosts. A large number. A dangerous number.”

Pulling out his flashlight, E. Gadd used it to illuminate the path before him. Leading the way back to the parked bunker a few feet back. The ghostly dog phased their way in and waited for E. Gadd to enter through the door. Who tossed his current equipment down as soon as he walked in. Heading straight for the workbench.

“Let’s just hope I can get this finished soon. It won’t be much use in pieces… We’ll make our way to the Mushroom Kingdom soon. For now, would you be so kind as to stand guard while I work?”

Polterpup let out a bark in agreement before floating up to the roof. Tail wagging as they peered through the darkness as the good watchdog they were.

#mario #luigi #mario and luigi #wario #waluigi #fanfiction #s-creation #yellow purple red green #overallsandfunnyhats #beginning scene inspired by art

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