Murder XIX: Trouble in Paradise

[thatguyinthestore]

"Oh dear...and not allow the others the pleasure of my company? That certainly is a cruel and unusual punishment!"

"My good man I could write a book about things you don't bring!" The Doctor replied towards Bowser. "If you are so great and powerful as you say you are then why are you still here in this cell? Suggesting that we should work together? A common enemy? I'll tell you why it's because you need us far more than we need you! Am I right or am I right? The great and powerful Bowser! Bah! A stale turtle waiting to be boiled up for supper is what I see!"


@Yun Lee @LuckycoolHawk9 @Khan of the Mardu @Klutzy Ninja Kitty @Otto @Archmage Jeremiah @Crow @Kaykay @J A Y F R OM T H E 6 I X @Kentucky @Midnight Maiden @Bucky @dark @ShiroKiyoshi @CrunchyCHEEZIT @Verite @thatguyinthestore

Bowser snarled at the Doctor as he spoke. When he was finished, the Koopa King was clearly hurt by his statement, but tried to hide it behind a smirk.

"I need you losers? Puh lease. The day I need help from some wimpy dorks like you is the day that Princess Peach and I get married."

Luigi held up a finger to counter his statement. "But didn't you say--"

"QUIET GREEN MARIO!!"

"Mario, Luigi, and I have worked with Bowser once before," Starlow said, finally chiming in to the conversation.

"He can be a bit temperamental sometimes, and may need a but of help from time to time, but he's a very solid ally to have! Much better than an enemy."

She floated up to meet Bowser's face to meet him eye to eye. "What do you say, Bowser? Think you can behave a little bit and help us? We can beat up Shadow Luigi as well as Kirigu, and get you back your base. We did help take back your castle, remember?"

@thatguyinthestore @Yun Lee @Klutzy Ninja Kitty @Jeremi

Bowser's ears would perk up when he heard a familiar high pitched voice emerge from the cast of colorful characters.

"Chippy?! What're you doin' here?" Bowser asked, surprised to see both her and Luigi, yet no sign of Mario or at least Peach. Once he registered what she had said, Bowser shrugged. "What? You mean when Mario and Green Stache were trapped inside my body after I sucked 'em up and that Fawful freak took over my castle? Ya, I remember. I also remember kickin' his butt, just like I'm gonna do to that Kirigi wimp when I get my hands on her." Bowser said, most likely tuning out what Starlow said about him behaving.

"Beating us up sounds a bit barbaric, don't you think?" Yusuke asked, frowning at Bowser. "I'd much rather we all worked together, I suppose." The boy paused to think, eventually adding, "Perhaps it would be best if we all cooperate after all. You are correct when you state that we really have nothing to lose..." He glanced to Starlow, whom he hadn't really been introduced yet, listening to what she had to say about Bowser. "I suppose it does put my mind at ease to hear of someone else who is willing to put their trust in him." He glanced to Alesha afterwards. "What do you say? Should we attempt forming an alliance with this Goomba?" he questioned, mistakenly calling their cellmate by the wrong name.

@thatguyinthestore @Khan of the Mardu @Mason Moretti

"Who gives a koop if beatin' people up is 'barbaric'? It gets the job done. Also, I ain't about t'be pals with you wimps. I got an image to keep up! And, I'm not a--"

"Koopa, Yusuke. He's the Koopa King - apparently, that is what dragon-turtles like to be named."

Whether Alesha corrected him out of genuine concern it might offend Bowser or because she simply didn't want to deal with his next tantrum was unclear.

"Yeah." Luckily, Yusuke had been corrected by Alesha. If that had happened another one or two times, the Koopa King would have ended up throwing another one of his delightful tantrums.

"Nnn..."

The groan was subtle, but she was at least awake and functional enough to let the sound go. It took a couple of moments, but she seemed to realize she was being nudged and spoken to, leading her to blink a few times before mustering a sheepish smile. Man, how embarrassing. Passing out and leaving her body in the form of a spirit was bad enough- she reallyyyy didn't want to make a habit of getting rendered to a state of disorientation and the like like this. "Mm," she muttered at first, almost unintentionally, giving a slow nod as she attempted to form words. "Ah, I mean.. Y-yes, thank you," she replied more alertly, managing to right herself and give the slightest indication of a bow out of thanks. She hesitated for a moment, glancing around before tilting her head down, looking to the floor with a more solemn expression.

"...But I don't understand," she mumbled, almost inaudibly. "That creature was defeated at the hands of these people, right? So why are we here in this cell like criminals?" she asked softly, the inquiry aimed at no one in particular. It merely drifted in the air, hanging like a fog clouding out the sun. Fitting for the dreary, dark cell they were in. Still, the pieces weren't fitting together, and the half-phantom only felt more and more confused by every new happening. Her drop into the world of the far shore had been abrupt enough, but this was a whole new level of crazy. It all just made her head spin... And the elephant in the room- or giant spiky turtle, in this case -was making it worse. The earthquake caused by his fall earned a small, astonished yip from the girl, but she slowly managed to get over it as time and discussion went on.

And, well, what came next was just natural for the overly kind and generous teen. When she finally managed to get a grasp of what was going on, anyways.

"So, you're willing to behave and help us?" she asked, surprisingly calm(externally) for speaking to an oversized spiky tortoise.

@thatguyinthestore @Yun Lee @Takumi

"Define 'behave.' "

@Midnight Maiden @Jeremi @Klutzy Ninja Kitty @Khan of the Mardu @Yun Lee @Verite @Crow ​

 

[thatguyinthestore]

Risky Boots grit her teeth, and facepalmed again.

View attachment 145014

"Well..." she grumbled, "if it wasn't you that roped us into this, who was it? This mysterious He-Devil? That blue brat Kirari? Those bumbling bunglers who made the mess that was pinned on us? Who?! They're sharkbait next I see them!" Risky Boots shouted in outrage, and took in one long, seething breath before backing off and folding her arms with a bad-tempered pout of her lip. Blinking and glancing at I-No for a moment, Risky turned her head away to titter. "Everyone loses their temper, girl. But...I still need to add, that if this rampant amnesia keeps spreading, we can kiss our eyewitnesses goodbye,"

@Yun Lee




"Oh step off your high-horse, twerp," butt in Risky Boots, "Need I remind you of the last time both of us were left powerless in the face of a heartless evil hellbent on stopping us, because we were the only thing standing between it and world domination?" she inquired, looking down at the half-genie without turning to face her, or even tilting her head down. "Connect the dots,"

@thatguyinthestore​

Shantae crossed her arms and shifted all her weight onto her right leg as she leaned on it. Letting out a sigh, the half-genie would nod.

"You're right. I did give you a chance, after all. Might as well give him one too." Shantae said, though she still didn't like the idea of working with Bowser.

Then again, she didn't exactly like the idea of working with Risky Boots either.

@Archmage Jeremiah​

 

[Minerva]

Well, the Black Boxes were probably in some evidence locker by now. Ritsuka looked at the large turtle creature in the cell with them, and muttered something under her breath.

"That must be this Singularity's Berserker class... I wonder what Heroic Spirit he is..." She said to herself about Bowser.

@thatguyinthestore @Anyone

 

[Yun Lee]

Episode One:
Plaza Peril!

"You know...maybe Gamera here can help me out. If I could get you to plead your case, maybe we'll be free to go." I-No gave Bowser a smile. "What do you say, big guy? You in?"​

Bowser sat silently for a moment with his arms crossed, not exactly being too keen when it came to working with the good. Though, after a good thirty seconds or so of silence, Bowser reluctantly nodded. "Fine! But none'a you twerps go gettin' any ideas. Like I said earlier, I ain't about t'be pals with any'a you."

"Huh?" One of the guards looked at the little radio on his person, which began to make noise. He lifted it up, listening, before saying, Roger that." Putting it back he looked at the inmates. "It's trial time."

I-No smiled at the group. "Showtime." She left the cell, everyone else escorted behind her into the courtroom. The judge sat at the bench, and in the plaintiff's seat was a Pianta attorney and none other than Kirari herself, watching you all with that same smile on her face.

"I'll try to make this quick," she said, her tone making it clear this has all been decided.

"I'm sure you will," I-No replied with a smirk, sitting at the defendant's seat. The officers have everyone else fill up the audience seats.

"Now then," the judge began, clearing his throat. "The defendants sit charged with the crime of vandalism. How do they plead?"​

"My clients plead not guilty, Your Honor."

"I see. And Mister Luigi sits charged as the main instigator of this criminal organization. How does he plead?"

"Not-a guilty!" The younger Mario brother stated with as much confidence as he could muster.

"Finally, Mister Bowser is charged with being the mastermind behind the attack on Isle Delfino one year ago, as well as evading arrest. Bowser, How do you plead?"​

"Guilty! Erm… I mean not guilty!"

"Well then, would the defense like to present their opening argument?"​

I-No stood, taking on an air of professionalism unseen earlier. "Your Honor, my clients were brought to Isle Delfino on a plane against their will, crashed onto the runway, and arrested for crimes they didn't commit! We have witnesses who saw both Luigi and an imposter that can attest for us. Forcing my clients into a trial without due process is shameful, and I demand you let them go free!"​

The Pianta lawyer stood, walking to the front of the courtroom. "That was a lovely speech, Miss, but unfortunately it amounts to nothing. You see, all witnesses at Delfino Airstrip this afternoon don't remember ever seeing anything in the account!"​

"They could've been lying!"​

"We ran them through a lie detector test!"​

"Damn!"

The lawyer produced a disc from his jacket pocket. "What's more, Miss Momobami here has a video that is solid proof of guilt of everyone! I would like to submit this film into court record."​

"Let's see it first," the judge motioned for the bailiff to put the disc into the court TV, which he did. As the footage started playing, it was clear this was surveillance footage around Isle Delfino. Things seemed normal at first: a hotel by the sea, an amusement park, a harbor...but then, as it changed to a windmill, you could see someone covering it with goop.​

"Wait a minute!" Yumeko said in shock. "Th-That's…!"

The culprit turned around, revealing their face.

"Gon?!"

The camera changed again. Now, Alesha could be seen on a beach, overlooking a group of goop creatures as they attacked bystanders. Another change, this time to a bay, where Yamishiro was polluting the water. The footage changed again and again, showing everyone involved in causing trouble one way or another. Even Mary could be seen at one point, working together with that monster from before. Finally, the footage landed on Shadow Luigi, painting an L on a wall with his brush. He turned around, and laughed, having spotted the camera. Pressing a button on the paintbrush, his blue hue disappeared to reveal…​

...Luigi, in his normal green outfit. He brought his paintbrush over his head and swung, and the camera went to static.

I-No stared in silence, then leaned back in her chair. "Well...we're fucked."

Kirari stood. "Your Honor, the security cameras I paid for all over Isle Delfino have caught all these criminals on tape. I'm afraid there's no other explanation."

"I'm afraid you're right. Unless the defense can explain this tape…"​

"...I got nothing." I-No did stand, however. "But even so, if I may make one request. There are children in this group, who were probably manipulated into helping. Won't you please give them a lighter sentence?"​

"Unfortunately, everyone will receive the same punishment. I sentence you all to clean up the mess you made on this island! Including you, Bowser!"​

"That's a load'a mushrooms! I wasn't even with these twerps when it happened!" Bowser shouted, angry that he had to clean up other people's messes. He wasn't a plumber like Mario or Luigi, after all.

"But you were here one year ago! And you have yet to face any charges! Consider this an extension of that sentencing! Now, you'll all be sent off to Delfino Plaza first! The hub of our humble island needs to be cleaned up first and foremost!" He brought his gavel down. "Court dismissed!"

--------------

Luckily, it turned out you were already in Delfino Plaza, as the courthouse was located just to the east of town square. As everyone was escorted out the next morning, the officers handed them all FLUDD machines and a map of the plaza.

"There are three areas covered in goop," they explained. "The Lighthouse east of here, the Statue at the south of town, and the Tanuki Hut to the west. Clean that all up and come see us when you're done. But no funny business-we'll know if anyone's slacking off."

These guards then proceeded to station themselves at the entrance to the courthouse. Huh. Looks like they won't be watching too closely.

I-No watched them with a sneer. "Protectors of the peace my ass." Turning to the group she frowned. "Sorry I couldn't get you out. That damned video...I hadn't expected that!"
​

"I don't understand how that's even-a possible. We've been together this entire time! Not to mention that we just got here like an hour or so ago." Luigi said, still confused by these events in general.
​

"I swear, it's that damned Momobami. She's definitely got some tricks up her sleeve. I'd try to help more, but I'm afraid I need to be off-I got a note to head to some sort of rendezvous. Time to meet this boss of mine." She sighed. "Watch me completely forget who it is when I leave. Take care, everyone!" With a wave goodbye, I-No was off.

"Take care. I'm-a sorry that things had to be this way." Luigi said, clearly feeling sorry for the poor witch, even if he was the only one in the group who did. She tried her best to help them, and that was enough to earn at least a small amount of respect from Luigi.

Once I-No was out of the way, however, Yumeko stepped forward. "Oh no. She was definitely lying."

"What do you mean?" He asked, confused by what Yumeko meant.

"You didn't see it? Her tell was kind of obvious." She clasped her hands together. "I-No would tap her right index finger when lying, like this." She demonstrated, tapping her own right index finger on her hand. "She did that earlier, in the plane. When she was talking about helping us enjoy paradise, I noticed her tapping her finger on her guitar. And she did it again in jail, saying she couldn't remember anything. I thought maybe it was just coincidence, but she did it just now, too, when apologizing. What, did none of you notice?"
​

Shantae, who had been relatively quiet throughout the ordeal (mostly out of shock from that video and the fact that she simply had nothing to say) shook her head. "No. And I'm usually good at telling when people are lying too." The half-genie said, eyeing Risky Boots with that particular statement.​

"Well, I've always had a knack for perception...or did I? I'm not too sure…Either way, this is turning into quite a fun little trip, isn't it? So unpredictable…"

"It's so exciting."

Just like that, though, Yumeko was back to normal, as if she hadn't changed a bit. "Well, I'm going to explore a little. I'm sure those officers won't mind, right?"

With that, she was off towards the market. You could follow her, or go other places, such as:

• The Shine Gate, the large structure in the center of town
• The Delfino Ferry, which are boats that take you to other small islands nearby
• The Bell Tower, which houses the town bell
• The Delfino Cafe, where it looks as if its owner needs some help

Then there's the Tanuki Hut, Statue, and Lighthouse, which all need cleaning up.

Starring:


@Archmage Jeremiah as Risky Boots (Shantae)
@Bucky as Honoka Kousaka (Love Live!)
@Cromartie Sarkissian as Tony Stark (The Superior Iron Man)
@Crow as Ernesti Echavalier (Knights & Magic)
@CrunchyCHEEZIT as Kars (Jojo's Bizarre Adventure)
@dark as Colonel Mael Radec (Killzone)
@Glostechk as Tsuyu Asui (Boku no Hero Academia)
@Gummi Bunnies as Maria Ushiromiya(Umineko no Naku Koro ni
@J A Y F R OM T H E 6 I X as Toshinori Yagi (Boku no Hero Academia)
@Jeremi as The Fourth Doctor (Doctor Who)
@Kaykay as Hina (Hinamatsuri)
@Kentucky as Peter Parker (The Amazing Spiderman)
@Klutzy Ninja Kitty as Yusuke Kitagawa (Persona 5)
@Leon Moretti as Nagihiko Fujisaki (Shugo Chara!)
@LuckycoolHawk9 as Rita Hanson (Groundhog Day: The Musical)
@Mari as Yamashiro (KanColle)
@Mason Moretti as Starlow (Mario and Luigi series)
@Midnight Maiden as Hiyori Iki (Noragami)
@Minerva as Ritsuka Fujimura (Fate/Grand Order)
@Otto as Talon (League of Legends)
@ShiroKiyoshi as Kusanagi (Phantom of the Kill)
@Takumi as Yato (Noragami)
@thatguyinthestore as Shantae (Shantae)
@The Myrmidon as Alesha, Who Smiles at Death (Magic: the Gathering)
@Verite as Gon Freeces (Hunter X Hunter)
@York as Ami Kawashima (Toradora!)
@Yun Lee as Yumeko Jabami (Kakegurui)​

 

[Minerva]

Episode One:
Plaza Peril!

"You know...maybe Gamera here can help me out. If I could get you to plead your case, maybe we'll be free to go." I-No gave Bowser a smile. "What do you say, big guy? You in?"​

Bowser sat silently for a moment with his arms crossed, not exactly being too keen when it came to working with the good. Though, after a good thirty seconds or so of silence, Bowser reluctantly nodded. "Fine! But none'a you twerps go gettin' any ideas. Like I said earlier, I ain't about t'be pals with any'a you."

"Huh?" One of the guards looked at the little radio on his person, which began to make noise. He lifted it up, listening, before saying, Roger that." Putting it back he looked at the inmates. "It's trial time."

I-No smiled at the group. "Showtime." She left the cell, everyone else escorted behind her into the courtroom. The judge sat at the bench, and in the plaintiff's seat was a Pianta attorney and none other than Kirari herself, watching you all with that same smile on her face.

"I'll try to make this quick," she said, her tone making it clear this has all been decided.

"I'm sure you will," I-No replied with a smirk, sitting at the defendant's seat. The officers have everyone else fill up the audience seats.

"Now then," the judge began, clearing his throat. "The defendants sit charged with the crime of vandalism. How do they plead?"​

"My clients plead not guilty, Your Honor."

"I see. And Mister Luigi sits charged as the main instigator of this criminal organization. How does he plead?"

"Not-a guilty!" The younger Mario brother stated with as much confidence as he could muster.

"Finally, Mister Bowser is charged with being the mastermind behind the attack on Isle Delfino one year ago, as well as evading arrest. Bowser, How do you plead?"​

"Guilty! Erm… I mean not guilty!"

"Well then, would the defense like to present their opening argument?"​

I-No stood, taking on an air of professionalism unseen earlier. "Your Honor, my clients were brought to Isle Delfino on a plane against their will, crashed onto the runway, and arrested for crimes they didn't commit! We have witnesses who saw both Luigi and an imposter that can attest for us. Forcing my clients into a trial without due process is shameful, and I demand you let them go free!"​

The Pianta lawyer stood, walking to the front of the courtroom. "That was a lovely speech, Miss, but unfortunately it amounts to nothing. You see, all witnesses at Delfino Airstrip this afternoon don't remember ever seeing anything in the account!"​

"They could've been lying!"​

"We ran them through a lie detector test!"​

"Damn!"

The lawyer produced a disc from his jacket pocket. "What's more, Miss Momobami here has a video that is solid proof of guilt of everyone! I would like to submit this film into court record."​

"Let's see it first," the judge motioned for the bailiff to put the disc into the court TV, which he did. As the footage started playing, it was clear this was surveillance footage around Isle Delfino. Things seemed normal at first: a hotel by the sea, an amusement park, a harbor...but then, as it changed to a windmill, you could see someone covering it with goop.​

"Wait a minute!" Yumeko said in shock. "Th-That's…!"

The culprit turned around, revealing their face.

"Gon?!"

The camera changed again. Now, Alesha could be seen on a beach, overlooking a group of goop creatures as they attacked bystanders. Another change, this time to a bay, where Yamishiro was polluting the water. The footage changed again and again, showing everyone involved in causing trouble one way or another. Even Mary could be seen at one point, working together with that monster from before. Finally, the footage landed on Shadow Luigi, painting an L on a wall with his brush. He turned around, and laughed, having spotted the camera. Pressing a button on the paintbrush, his blue hue disappeared to reveal…​

...Luigi, in his normal green outfit. He brought his paintbrush over his head and swung, and the camera went to static.

I-No stared in silence, then leaned back in her chair. "Well...we're fucked."

Kirari stood. "Your Honor, the security cameras I paid for all over Isle Delfino have caught all these criminals on tape. I'm afraid there's no other explanation."

"I'm afraid you're right. Unless the defense can explain this tape…"​

"...I got nothing." I-No did stand, however. "But even so, if I may make one request. There are children in this group, who were probably manipulated into helping. Won't you please give them a lighter sentence?"​

"Unfortunately, everyone will receive the same punishment. I sentence you all to clean up the mess you made on this island! Including you, Bowser!"​

"That's a load'a mushrooms! I wasn't even with these twerps when it happened!" Bowser shouted, angry that he had to clean up other people's messes. He wasn't a plumber like Mario or Luigi, after all.

"But you were here one year ago! And you have yet to face any charges! Consider this an extension of that sentencing! Now, you'll all be sent off to Delfino Plaza first! The hub of our humble island needs to be cleaned up first and foremost!" He brought his gavel down. "Court dismissed!"

--------------

Luckily, it turned out you were already in Delfino Plaza, as the courthouse was located just to the east of town square. As everyone was escorted out the next morning, the officers handed them all FLUDD machines and a map of the plaza.

"There are three areas covered in goop," they explained. "The Lighthouse east of here, the Statue at the south of town, and the Tanuki Hut to the west. Clean that all up and come see us when you're done. But no funny business-we'll know if anyone's slacking off."

These guards then proceeded to station themselves at the entrance to the courthouse. Huh. Looks like they won't be watching too closely.

I-No watched them with a sneer. "Protectors of the peace my ass." Turning to the group she frowned. "Sorry I couldn't get you out. That damned video...I hadn't expected that!"
​

"I don't understand how that's even-a possible. We've been together this entire time! Not to mention that we just got here like an hour or so ago." Luigi said, still confused by these events in general.
​

"I swear, it's that damned Momobami. She's definitely got some tricks up her sleeve. I'd try to help more, but I'm afraid I need to be off-I got a note to head to some sort of rendezvous. Time to meet this boss of mine." She sighed. "Watch me completely forget who it is when I leave. Take care, everyone!" With a wave goodbye, I-No was off.

"Take care. I'm-a sorry that things had to be this way." Luigi said, clearly feeling sorry for the poor witch, even if he was the only one in the group who did. She tried her best to help them, and that was enough to earn at least a small amount of respect from Luigi.

Once I-No was out of the way, however, Yumeko stepped forward. "Oh no. She was definitely lying."

"What do you mean?" He asked, confused by what Yumeko meant.

"You didn't see it? Her tell was kind of obvious." She clasped her hands together. "I-No would tap her right index finger when lying, like this." She demonstrated, tapping her own right index finger on her hand. "She did that earlier, in the plane. When she was talking about helping us enjoy paradise, I noticed her tapping her finger on her guitar. And she did it again in jail, saying she couldn't remember anything. I thought maybe it was just coincidence, but she did it just now, too, when apologizing. What, did none of you notice?"
​

Shantae, who had been relatively quiet throughout the ordeal (mostly out of shock from that video and the fact that she simply had nothing to say) shook her head. "No. And I'm usually good at telling when people are lying too." The half-genie said, eyeing Risky Boots with that particular statement.​

"Well, I've always had a knack for perception...or did I? I'm not too sure…Either way, this is turning into quite a fun little trip, isn't it? So unpredictable…"

"It's so exciting."

Just like that, though, Yumeko was back to normal, as if she hadn't changed a bit. "Well, I'm going to explore a little. I'm sure those officers won't mind, right?"

With that, she was off towards the market. You could follow her, or go other places, such as:

• The Shine Gate, the large structure in the center of town
• The Delfino Ferry, which are boats that take you to other small islands nearby
• The Bell Tower, which houses the town bell
• The Delfino Cafe, where it looks as if its owner needs some help

Then there's the Tanuki Hut, Statue, and Lighthouse, which all need cleaning up.

Starring:


@Archmage Jeremiah as Risky Boots (Shantae)
@Bucky as Honoka Kousaka (Love Live!)
@Cromartie Sarkissian as Tony Stark (The Superior Iron Man)
@Crow as Ernesti Echavalier (Knights & Magic)
@CrunchyCHEEZIT as Kars (Jojo's Bizarre Adventure)
@dark as Colonel Mael Radec (Killzone)
@Glostechk as Tsuyu Asui (Boku no Hero Academia)
@Gummi Bunnies as Maria Ushiromiya(Umineko no Naku Koro ni
@J A Y F R OM T H E 6 I X as Toshinori Yagi (Boku no Hero Academia)
@Jeremi as The Fourth Doctor (Doctor Who)
@Kaykay as Hina (Hinamatsuri)
@Kentucky as Peter Parker (The Amazing Spiderman)
@Klutzy Ninja Kitty as Yusuke Kitagawa (Persona 5)
@Leon Moretti as Nagihiko Fujisaki (Shugo Chara!)
@LuckycoolHawk9 as Rita Hanson (Groundhog Day: The Musical)
@Mari as Yamashiro (KanColle)
@Mason Moretti as Starlow (Mario and Luigi series)
@Midnight Maiden as Hiyori Iki (Noragami)
@Minerva as Ritsuka Fujimura (Fate/Grand Order)
@Otto as Talon (League of Legends)
@ShiroKiyoshi as Kusanagi (Phantom of the Kill)
@Takumi as Yato (Noragami)
@thatguyinthestore as Shantae (Shantae)
@The Myrmidon as Alesha, Who Smiles at Death (Magic: the Gathering)
@Verite as Gon Freeces (Hunter X Hunter)
@York as Ami Kawashima (Toradora!)
@Yun Lee as Yumeko Jabami (Kakegurui)​

Well, they were out of jail, and probably not getting the Black Boxes back. That sucked, but hopefully the NTSB would arrive soon and take custody of them. (Hint: They wouldn't, because this is Murder)

Ritsuka looked around the area. She then went to The Delfino Cafe. Perhaps she would be able to help out the owners there."Hello! I see you could use some help." She said in a polite tone.

@Anyone

 

[Khan of the Mardu]

Episode One:
Plaza Peril!

"You know...maybe Gamera here can help me out. If I could get you to plead your case, maybe we'll be free to go." I-No gave Bowser a smile. "What do you say, big guy? You in?"​

Bowser sat silently for a moment with his arms crossed, not exactly being too keen when it came to working with the good. Though, after a good thirty seconds or so of silence, Bowser reluctantly nodded. "Fine! But none'a you twerps go gettin' any ideas. Like I said earlier, I ain't about t'be pals with any'a you."

"Huh?" One of the guards looked at the little radio on his person, which began to make noise. He lifted it up, listening, before saying, Roger that." Putting it back he looked at the inmates. "It's trial time."

I-No smiled at the group. "Showtime." She left the cell, everyone else escorted behind her into the courtroom. The judge sat at the bench, and in the plaintiff's seat was a Pianta attorney and none other than Kirari herself, watching you all with that same smile on her face.

"I'll try to make this quick," she said, her tone making it clear this has all been decided.

"I'm sure you will," I-No replied with a smirk, sitting at the defendant's seat. The officers have everyone else fill up the audience seats.

"Now then," the judge began, clearing his throat. "The defendants sit charged with the crime of vandalism. How do they plead?"​

"My clients plead not guilty, Your Honor."

"I see. And Mister Luigi sits charged as the main instigator of this criminal organization. How does he plead?"

"Not-a guilty!" The younger Mario brother stated with as much confidence as he could muster.

"Finally, Mister Bowser is charged with being the mastermind behind the attack on Isle Delfino one year ago, as well as evading arrest. Bowser, How do you plead?"​

"Guilty! Erm… I mean not guilty!"

"Well then, would the defense like to present their opening argument?"​

I-No stood, taking on an air of professionalism unseen earlier. "Your Honor, my clients were brought to Isle Delfino on a plane against their will, crashed onto the runway, and arrested for crimes they didn't commit! We have witnesses who saw both Luigi and an imposter that can attest for us. Forcing my clients into a trial without due process is shameful, and I demand you let them go free!"​

The Pianta lawyer stood, walking to the front of the courtroom. "That was a lovely speech, Miss, but unfortunately it amounts to nothing. You see, all witnesses at Delfino Airstrip this afternoon don't remember ever seeing anything in the account!"​

"They could've been lying!"​

"We ran them through a lie detector test!"​

"Damn!"

The lawyer produced a disc from his jacket pocket. "What's more, Miss Momobami here has a video that is solid proof of guilt of everyone! I would like to submit this film into court record."​

"Let's see it first," the judge motioned for the bailiff to put the disc into the court TV, which he did. As the footage started playing, it was clear this was surveillance footage around Isle Delfino. Things seemed normal at first: a hotel by the sea, an amusement park, a harbor...but then, as it changed to a windmill, you could see someone covering it with goop.​

"Wait a minute!" Yumeko said in shock. "Th-That's…!"

The culprit turned around, revealing their face.

"Gon?!"

The camera changed again. Now, Alesha could be seen on a beach, overlooking a group of goop creatures as they attacked bystanders. Another change, this time to a bay, where Yamishiro was polluting the water. The footage changed again and again, showing everyone involved in causing trouble one way or another. Even Mary could be seen at one point, working together with that monster from before. Finally, the footage landed on Shadow Luigi, painting an L on a wall with his brush. He turned around, and laughed, having spotted the camera. Pressing a button on the paintbrush, his blue hue disappeared to reveal…​

...Luigi, in his normal green outfit. He brought his paintbrush over his head and swung, and the camera went to static.

I-No stared in silence, then leaned back in her chair. "Well...we're fucked."

Kirari stood. "Your Honor, the security cameras I paid for all over Isle Delfino have caught all these criminals on tape. I'm afraid there's no other explanation."

"I'm afraid you're right. Unless the defense can explain this tape…"​

"...I got nothing." I-No did stand, however. "But even so, if I may make one request. There are children in this group, who were probably manipulated into helping. Won't you please give them a lighter sentence?"​

"Unfortunately, everyone will receive the same punishment. I sentence you all to clean up the mess you made on this island! Including you, Bowser!"​

"That's a load'a mushrooms! I wasn't even with these twerps when it happened!" Bowser shouted, angry that he had to clean up other people's messes. He wasn't a plumber like Mario or Luigi, after all.

"But you were here one year ago! And you have yet to face any charges! Consider this an extension of that sentencing! Now, you'll all be sent off to Delfino Plaza first! The hub of our humble island needs to be cleaned up first and foremost!" He brought his gavel down. "Court dismissed!"

--------------

Luckily, it turned out you were already in Delfino Plaza, as the courthouse was located just to the east of town square. As everyone was escorted out the next morning, the officers handed them all FLUDD machines and a map of the plaza.

"There are three areas covered in goop," they explained. "The Lighthouse east of here, the Statue at the south of town, and the Tanuki Hut to the west. Clean that all up and come see us when you're done. But no funny business-we'll know if anyone's slacking off."

These guards then proceeded to station themselves at the entrance to the courthouse. Huh. Looks like they won't be watching too closely.

I-No watched them with a sneer. "Protectors of the peace my ass." Turning to the group she frowned. "Sorry I couldn't get you out. That damned video...I hadn't expected that!"
​

"I don't understand how that's even-a possible. We've been together this entire time! Not to mention that we just got here like an hour or so ago." Luigi said, still confused by these events in general.
​

"I swear, it's that damned Momobami. She's definitely got some tricks up her sleeve. I'd try to help more, but I'm afraid I need to be off-I got a note to head to some sort of rendezvous. Time to meet this boss of mine." She sighed. "Watch me completely forget who it is when I leave. Take care, everyone!" With a wave goodbye, I-No was off.

"Take care. I'm-a sorry that things had to be this way." Luigi said, clearly feeling sorry for the poor witch, even if he was the only one in the group who did. She tried her best to help them, and that was enough to earn at least a small amount of respect from Luigi.

Once I-No was out of the way, however, Yumeko stepped forward. "Oh no. She was definitely lying."

"What do you mean?" He asked, confused by what Yumeko meant.

"You didn't see it? Her tell was kind of obvious." She clasped her hands together. "I-No would tap her right index finger when lying, like this." She demonstrated, tapping her own right index finger on her hand. "She did that earlier, in the plane. When she was talking about helping us enjoy paradise, I noticed her tapping her finger on her guitar. And she did it again in jail, saying she couldn't remember anything. I thought maybe it was just coincidence, but she did it just now, too, when apologizing. What, did none of you notice?"
​

Shantae, who had been relatively quiet throughout the ordeal (mostly out of shock from that video and the fact that she simply had nothing to say) shook her head. "No. And I'm usually good at telling when people are lying too." The half-genie said, eyeing Risky Boots with that particular statement.​

"Well, I've always had a knack for perception...or did I? I'm not too sure…Either way, this is turning into quite a fun little trip, isn't it? So unpredictable…"

"It's so exciting."

Just like that, though, Yumeko was back to normal, as if she hadn't changed a bit. "Well, I'm going to explore a little. I'm sure those officers won't mind, right?"

With that, she was off towards the market. You could follow her, or go other places, such as:

• The Shine Gate, the large structure in the center of town
• The Delfino Ferry, which are boats that take you to other small islands nearby
• The Bell Tower, which houses the town bell
• The Delfino Cafe, where it looks as if its owner needs some help

Then there's the Tanuki Hut, Statue, and Lighthouse, which all need cleaning up.

Starring:


@Archmage Jeremiah as Risky Boots (Shantae)
@Bucky as Honoka Kousaka (Love Live!)
@Cromartie Sarkissian as Tony Stark (The Superior Iron Man)
@Crow as Ernesti Echavalier (Knights & Magic)
@CrunchyCHEEZIT as Kars (Jojo's Bizarre Adventure)
@dark as Colonel Mael Radec (Killzone)
@Glostechk as Tsuyu Asui (Boku no Hero Academia)
@Gummi Bunnies as Maria Ushiromiya(Umineko no Naku Koro ni
@J A Y F R OM T H E 6 I X as Toshinori Yagi (Boku no Hero Academia)
@Jeremi as The Fourth Doctor (Doctor Who)
@Kaykay as Hina (Hinamatsuri)
@Kentucky as Peter Parker (The Amazing Spiderman)
@Klutzy Ninja Kitty as Yusuke Kitagawa (Persona 5)
@Leon Moretti as Nagihiko Fujisaki (Shugo Chara!)
@LuckycoolHawk9 as Rita Hanson (Groundhog Day: The Musical)
@Mari as Yamashiro (KanColle)
@Mason Moretti as Starlow (Mario and Luigi series)
@Midnight Maiden as Hiyori Iki (Noragami)
@Minerva as Ritsuka Fujimura (Fate/Grand Order)
@Otto as Talon (League of Legends)
@ShiroKiyoshi as Kusanagi (Phantom of the Kill)
@Takumi as Yato (Noragami)
@thatguyinthestore as Shantae (Shantae)
@The Myrmidon as Alesha, Who Smiles at Death (Magic: the Gathering)
@Verite as Gon Freeces (Hunter X Hunter)
@York as Ami Kawashima (Toradora!)
@Yun Lee as Yumeko Jabami (Kakegurui)​

"Slanderous filth... trusting some twisted seer's device over the word of a khan..." Bitter mutterings would be all that anyone would hear escaping Alesha's lips, her expression one of stewing rage and distrust towards the people of the island, "Raze this whole island to the ground when I return to the horde... bastards will learn what price is paid for falsely blemishing the honor of the Mardu and lying to its khan about their goodwill..." Without even waiting for the others to respond to her mutterings, the woman marched off from the courthouse, heading towards the Lighthouse with a scowl. She would go along with the order to clean for now - her vengeance would come soon enough.

@Klutzy Ninja Kitty @Yun Lee @thatguyinthestore​

 

[Klutzy Ninja Kitty]

Episode One:
Plaza Peril!

"You know...maybe Gamera here can help me out. If I could get you to plead your case, maybe we'll be free to go." I-No gave Bowser a smile. "What do you say, big guy? You in?"​

Bowser sat silently for a moment with his arms crossed, not exactly being too keen when it came to working with the good. Though, after a good thirty seconds or so of silence, Bowser reluctantly nodded. "Fine! But none'a you twerps go gettin' any ideas. Like I said earlier, I ain't about t'be pals with any'a you."

"Huh?" One of the guards looked at the little radio on his person, which began to make noise. He lifted it up, listening, before saying, Roger that." Putting it back he looked at the inmates. "It's trial time."

I-No smiled at the group. "Showtime." She left the cell, everyone else escorted behind her into the courtroom. The judge sat at the bench, and in the plaintiff's seat was a Pianta attorney and none other than Kirari herself, watching you all with that same smile on her face.

"I'll try to make this quick," she said, her tone making it clear this has all been decided.

"I'm sure you will," I-No replied with a smirk, sitting at the defendant's seat. The officers have everyone else fill up the audience seats.

"Now then," the judge began, clearing his throat. "The defendants sit charged with the crime of vandalism. How do they plead?"​

"My clients plead not guilty, Your Honor."

"I see. And Mister Luigi sits charged as the main instigator of this criminal organization. How does he plead?"

"Not-a guilty!" The younger Mario brother stated with as much confidence as he could muster.

"Finally, Mister Bowser is charged with being the mastermind behind the attack on Isle Delfino one year ago, as well as evading arrest. Bowser, How do you plead?"​

"Guilty! Erm… I mean not guilty!"

"Well then, would the defense like to present their opening argument?"​

I-No stood, taking on an air of professionalism unseen earlier. "Your Honor, my clients were brought to Isle Delfino on a plane against their will, crashed onto the runway, and arrested for crimes they didn't commit! We have witnesses who saw both Luigi and an imposter that can attest for us. Forcing my clients into a trial without due process is shameful, and I demand you let them go free!"​

The Pianta lawyer stood, walking to the front of the courtroom. "That was a lovely speech, Miss, but unfortunately it amounts to nothing. You see, all witnesses at Delfino Airstrip this afternoon don't remember ever seeing anything in the account!"​

"They could've been lying!"​

"We ran them through a lie detector test!"​

"Damn!"

The lawyer produced a disc from his jacket pocket. "What's more, Miss Momobami here has a video that is solid proof of guilt of everyone! I would like to submit this film into court record."​

"Let's see it first," the judge motioned for the bailiff to put the disc into the court TV, which he did. As the footage started playing, it was clear this was surveillance footage around Isle Delfino. Things seemed normal at first: a hotel by the sea, an amusement park, a harbor...but then, as it changed to a windmill, you could see someone covering it with goop.​

"Wait a minute!" Yumeko said in shock. "Th-That's…!"

The culprit turned around, revealing their face.

"Gon?!"

The camera changed again. Now, Alesha could be seen on a beach, overlooking a group of goop creatures as they attacked bystanders. Another change, this time to a bay, where Yamishiro was polluting the water. The footage changed again and again, showing everyone involved in causing trouble one way or another. Even Mary could be seen at one point, working together with that monster from before. Finally, the footage landed on Shadow Luigi, painting an L on a wall with his brush. He turned around, and laughed, having spotted the camera. Pressing a button on the paintbrush, his blue hue disappeared to reveal…​

...Luigi, in his normal green outfit. He brought his paintbrush over his head and swung, and the camera went to static.

I-No stared in silence, then leaned back in her chair. "Well...we're fucked."

Kirari stood. "Your Honor, the security cameras I paid for all over Isle Delfino have caught all these criminals on tape. I'm afraid there's no other explanation."

"I'm afraid you're right. Unless the defense can explain this tape…"​

"...I got nothing." I-No did stand, however. "But even so, if I may make one request. There are children in this group, who were probably manipulated into helping. Won't you please give them a lighter sentence?"​

"Unfortunately, everyone will receive the same punishment. I sentence you all to clean up the mess you made on this island! Including you, Bowser!"​

"That's a load'a mushrooms! I wasn't even with these twerps when it happened!" Bowser shouted, angry that he had to clean up other people's messes. He wasn't a plumber like Mario or Luigi, after all.

"But you were here one year ago! And you have yet to face any charges! Consider this an extension of that sentencing! Now, you'll all be sent off to Delfino Plaza first! The hub of our humble island needs to be cleaned up first and foremost!" He brought his gavel down. "Court dismissed!"

--------------

Luckily, it turned out you were already in Delfino Plaza, as the courthouse was located just to the east of town square. As everyone was escorted out the next morning, the officers handed them all FLUDD machines and a map of the plaza.

"There are three areas covered in goop," they explained. "The Lighthouse east of here, the Statue at the south of town, and the Tanuki Hut to the west. Clean that all up and come see us when you're done. But no funny business-we'll know if anyone's slacking off."

These guards then proceeded to station themselves at the entrance to the courthouse. Huh. Looks like they won't be watching too closely.

I-No watched them with a sneer. "Protectors of the peace my ass." Turning to the group she frowned. "Sorry I couldn't get you out. That damned video...I hadn't expected that!"
​

"I don't understand how that's even-a possible. We've been together this entire time! Not to mention that we just got here like an hour or so ago." Luigi said, still confused by these events in general.
​

"I swear, it's that damned Momobami. She's definitely got some tricks up her sleeve. I'd try to help more, but I'm afraid I need to be off-I got a note to head to some sort of rendezvous. Time to meet this boss of mine." She sighed. "Watch me completely forget who it is when I leave. Take care, everyone!" With a wave goodbye, I-No was off.

"Take care. I'm-a sorry that things had to be this way." Luigi said, clearly feeling sorry for the poor witch, even if he was the only one in the group who did. She tried her best to help them, and that was enough to earn at least a small amount of respect from Luigi.

Once I-No was out of the way, however, Yumeko stepped forward. "Oh no. She was definitely lying."

"What do you mean?" He asked, confused by what Yumeko meant.

"You didn't see it? Her tell was kind of obvious." She clasped her hands together. "I-No would tap her right index finger when lying, like this." She demonstrated, tapping her own right index finger on her hand. "She did that earlier, in the plane. When she was talking about helping us enjoy paradise, I noticed her tapping her finger on her guitar. And she did it again in jail, saying she couldn't remember anything. I thought maybe it was just coincidence, but she did it just now, too, when apologizing. What, did none of you notice?"
​

Shantae, who had been relatively quiet throughout the ordeal (mostly out of shock from that video and the fact that she simply had nothing to say) shook her head. "No. And I'm usually good at telling when people are lying too." The half-genie said, eyeing Risky Boots with that particular statement.​

"Well, I've always had a knack for perception...or did I? I'm not too sure…Either way, this is turning into quite a fun little trip, isn't it? So unpredictable…"

"It's so exciting."

Just like that, though, Yumeko was back to normal, as if she hadn't changed a bit. "Well, I'm going to explore a little. I'm sure those officers won't mind, right?"

With that, she was off towards the market. You could follow her, or go other places, such as:

• The Shine Gate, the large structure in the center of town
• The Delfino Ferry, which are boats that take you to other small islands nearby
• The Bell Tower, which houses the town bell
• The Delfino Cafe, where it looks as if its owner needs some help

Then there's the Tanuki Hut, Statue, and Lighthouse, which all need cleaning up.

Starring:


@Archmage Jeremiah as Risky Boots (Shantae)
@Bucky as Honoka Kousaka (Love Live!)
@Cromartie Sarkissian as Tony Stark (The Superior Iron Man)
@Crow as Ernesti Echavalier (Knights & Magic)
@CrunchyCHEEZIT as Kars (Jojo's Bizarre Adventure)
@dark as Colonel Mael Radec (Killzone)
@Glostechk as Tsuyu Asui (Boku no Hero Academia)
@Gummi Bunnies as Maria Ushiromiya(Umineko no Naku Koro ni
@J A Y F R OM T H E 6 I X as Toshinori Yagi (Boku no Hero Academia)
@Jeremi as The Fourth Doctor (Doctor Who)
@Kaykay as Hina (Hinamatsuri)
@Kentucky as Peter Parker (The Amazing Spiderman)
@Klutzy Ninja Kitty as Yusuke Kitagawa (Persona 5)
@Leon Moretti as Nagihiko Fujisaki (Shugo Chara!)
@LuckycoolHawk9 as Rita Hanson (Groundhog Day: The Musical)
@Mari as Yamashiro (KanColle)
@Mason Moretti as Starlow (Mario and Luigi series)
@Midnight Maiden as Hiyori Iki (Noragami)
@Minerva as Ritsuka Fujimura (Fate/Grand Order)
@Otto as Talon (League of Legends)
@ShiroKiyoshi as Kusanagi (Phantom of the Kill)
@Takumi as Yato (Noragami)
@thatguyinthestore as Shantae (Shantae)
@The Myrmidon as Alesha, Who Smiles at Death (Magic: the Gathering)
@Verite as Gon Freeces (Hunter X Hunter)
@York as Ami Kawashima (Toradora!)
@Yun Lee as Yumeko Jabami (Kakegurui)​

"Slanderous filth... trusting some twisted seer's device over the word of a khan..." Bitter mutterings would be all that anyone would hear escaping Alesha's lips, her expression one of stewing rage and distrust towards the people of the island, "Raze this whole island to the ground when I return to the horde... bastards will learn what price is paid for falsely blemishing the honor of the Mardu and lying to its khan about their goodwill..." Without even waiting for the others to respond to her mutterings, the woman marched off from the courthouse, heading towards the Lighthouse with a scowl. She would go along with the order to clean for now - her vengeance would come soon enough.

@Klutzy Ninja Kitty @Yun Lee @thatguyinthestore​

"That truly didn't go well at all," Yusuke mumbled, a flat expression on his face. It looked as if they would be trapped on this godforsaken island a while longer. He glanced to Alesha, who also appeared rather upset. "Let us hope the perverse lies being spread about us shall be eradicated in due time. But, for now, let's get this over with," he added before quietly musing over where he was interested in going. "Would you care to go to the--"

Yusuke found himself cut off, unable to finish his suggestion before Alesha would begin heading for the Lighthouse. "...cafe," he mumbled, in small, hopeful voice before trailing off. He was honestly starving and hoping that the cafe might have food available for them after they finished their work. But, then again, it wasn't as if he couldn't live without eating for long periods of time. His skinny ass had done so many times already. "Nevermind, I'm coming!" he exclaimed, following after her.

@Khan of the Mardu @thatguyinthestore @Yun Lee​

 

[Mari]

Episode One:
Plaza Peril!

"You know...maybe Gamera here can help me out. If I could get you to plead your case, maybe we'll be free to go." I-No gave Bowser a smile. "What do you say, big guy? You in?"​

Bowser sat silently for a moment with his arms crossed, not exactly being too keen when it came to working with the good. Though, after a good thirty seconds or so of silence, Bowser reluctantly nodded. "Fine! But none'a you twerps go gettin' any ideas. Like I said earlier, I ain't about t'be pals with any'a you."

"Huh?" One of the guards looked at the little radio on his person, which began to make noise. He lifted it up, listening, before saying, Roger that." Putting it back he looked at the inmates. "It's trial time."

I-No smiled at the group. "Showtime." She left the cell, everyone else escorted behind her into the courtroom. The judge sat at the bench, and in the plaintiff's seat was a Pianta attorney and none other than Kirari herself, watching you all with that same smile on her face.

"I'll try to make this quick," she said, her tone making it clear this has all been decided.

"I'm sure you will," I-No replied with a smirk, sitting at the defendant's seat. The officers have everyone else fill up the audience seats.

"Now then," the judge began, clearing his throat. "The defendants sit charged with the crime of vandalism. How do they plead?"​

"My clients plead not guilty, Your Honor."

"I see. And Mister Luigi sits charged as the main instigator of this criminal organization. How does he plead?"

"Not-a guilty!" The younger Mario brother stated with as much confidence as he could muster.

"Finally, Mister Bowser is charged with being the mastermind behind the attack on Isle Delfino one year ago, as well as evading arrest. Bowser, How do you plead?"​

"Guilty! Erm… I mean not guilty!"

"Well then, would the defense like to present their opening argument?"​

I-No stood, taking on an air of professionalism unseen earlier. "Your Honor, my clients were brought to Isle Delfino on a plane against their will, crashed onto the runway, and arrested for crimes they didn't commit! We have witnesses who saw both Luigi and an imposter that can attest for us. Forcing my clients into a trial without due process is shameful, and I demand you let them go free!"​

The Pianta lawyer stood, walking to the front of the courtroom. "That was a lovely speech, Miss, but unfortunately it amounts to nothing. You see, all witnesses at Delfino Airstrip this afternoon don't remember ever seeing anything in the account!"​

"They could've been lying!"​

"We ran them through a lie detector test!"​

"Damn!"

The lawyer produced a disc from his jacket pocket. "What's more, Miss Momobami here has a video that is solid proof of guilt of everyone! I would like to submit this film into court record."​

"Let's see it first," the judge motioned for the bailiff to put the disc into the court TV, which he did. As the footage started playing, it was clear this was surveillance footage around Isle Delfino. Things seemed normal at first: a hotel by the sea, an amusement park, a harbor...but then, as it changed to a windmill, you could see someone covering it with goop.​

"Wait a minute!" Yumeko said in shock. "Th-That's…!"

The culprit turned around, revealing their face.

"Gon?!"

The camera changed again. Now, Alesha could be seen on a beach, overlooking a group of goop creatures as they attacked bystanders. Another change, this time to a bay, where Yamishiro was polluting the water. The footage changed again and again, showing everyone involved in causing trouble one way or another. Even Mary could be seen at one point, working together with that monster from before. Finally, the footage landed on Shadow Luigi, painting an L on a wall with his brush. He turned around, and laughed, having spotted the camera. Pressing a button on the paintbrush, his blue hue disappeared to reveal…​

...Luigi, in his normal green outfit. He brought his paintbrush over his head and swung, and the camera went to static.

I-No stared in silence, then leaned back in her chair. "Well...we're fucked."

Kirari stood. "Your Honor, the security cameras I paid for all over Isle Delfino have caught all these criminals on tape. I'm afraid there's no other explanation."

"I'm afraid you're right. Unless the defense can explain this tape…"​

"...I got nothing." I-No did stand, however. "But even so, if I may make one request. There are children in this group, who were probably manipulated into helping. Won't you please give them a lighter sentence?"​

"Unfortunately, everyone will receive the same punishment. I sentence you all to clean up the mess you made on this island! Including you, Bowser!"​

"That's a load'a mushrooms! I wasn't even with these twerps when it happened!" Bowser shouted, angry that he had to clean up other people's messes. He wasn't a plumber like Mario or Luigi, after all.

"But you were here one year ago! And you have yet to face any charges! Consider this an extension of that sentencing! Now, you'll all be sent off to Delfino Plaza first! The hub of our humble island needs to be cleaned up first and foremost!" He brought his gavel down. "Court dismissed!"

--------------

Luckily, it turned out you were already in Delfino Plaza, as the courthouse was located just to the east of town square. As everyone was escorted out the next morning, the officers handed them all FLUDD machines and a map of the plaza.

"There are three areas covered in goop," they explained. "The Lighthouse east of here, the Statue at the south of town, and the Tanuki Hut to the west. Clean that all up and come see us when you're done. But no funny business-we'll know if anyone's slacking off."

These guards then proceeded to station themselves at the entrance to the courthouse. Huh. Looks like they won't be watching too closely.

I-No watched them with a sneer. "Protectors of the peace my ass." Turning to the group she frowned. "Sorry I couldn't get you out. That damned video...I hadn't expected that!"
​

"I don't understand how that's even-a possible. We've been together this entire time! Not to mention that we just got here like an hour or so ago." Luigi said, still confused by these events in general.
​

"I swear, it's that damned Momobami. She's definitely got some tricks up her sleeve. I'd try to help more, but I'm afraid I need to be off-I got a note to head to some sort of rendezvous. Time to meet this boss of mine." She sighed. "Watch me completely forget who it is when I leave. Take care, everyone!" With a wave goodbye, I-No was off.

"Take care. I'm-a sorry that things had to be this way." Luigi said, clearly feeling sorry for the poor witch, even if he was the only one in the group who did. She tried her best to help them, and that was enough to earn at least a small amount of respect from Luigi.

Once I-No was out of the way, however, Yumeko stepped forward. "Oh no. She was definitely lying."

"What do you mean?" He asked, confused by what Yumeko meant.

"You didn't see it? Her tell was kind of obvious." She clasped her hands together. "I-No would tap her right index finger when lying, like this." She demonstrated, tapping her own right index finger on her hand. "She did that earlier, in the plane. When she was talking about helping us enjoy paradise, I noticed her tapping her finger on her guitar. And she did it again in jail, saying she couldn't remember anything. I thought maybe it was just coincidence, but she did it just now, too, when apologizing. What, did none of you notice?"
​

Shantae, who had been relatively quiet throughout the ordeal (mostly out of shock from that video and the fact that she simply had nothing to say) shook her head. "No. And I'm usually good at telling when people are lying too." The half-genie said, eyeing Risky Boots with that particular statement.​

"Well, I've always had a knack for perception...or did I? I'm not too sure…Either way, this is turning into quite a fun little trip, isn't it? So unpredictable…"

"It's so exciting."

Just like that, though, Yumeko was back to normal, as if she hadn't changed a bit. "Well, I'm going to explore a little. I'm sure those officers won't mind, right?"

With that, she was off towards the market. You could follow her, or go other places, such as:

• The Shine Gate, the large structure in the center of town
• The Delfino Ferry, which are boats that take you to other small islands nearby
• The Bell Tower, which houses the town bell
• The Delfino Cafe, where it looks as if its owner needs some help

Then there's the Tanuki Hut, Statue, and Lighthouse, which all need cleaning up.

Starring:


@Archmage Jeremiah as Risky Boots (Shantae)
@Bucky as Honoka Kousaka (Love Live!)
@Cromartie Sarkissian as Tony Stark (The Superior Iron Man)
@Crow as Ernesti Echavalier (Knights & Magic)
@CrunchyCHEEZIT as Kars (Jojo's Bizarre Adventure)
@dark as Colonel Mael Radec (Killzone)
@Glostechk as Tsuyu Asui (Boku no Hero Academia)
@Gummi Bunnies as Maria Ushiromiya(Umineko no Naku Koro ni
@J A Y F R OM T H E 6 I X as Toshinori Yagi (Boku no Hero Academia)
@Jeremi as The Fourth Doctor (Doctor Who)
@Kaykay as Hina (Hinamatsuri)
@Kentucky as Peter Parker (The Amazing Spiderman)
@Klutzy Ninja Kitty as Yusuke Kitagawa (Persona 5)
@Leon Moretti as Nagihiko Fujisaki (Shugo Chara!)
@LuckycoolHawk9 as Rita Hanson (Groundhog Day: The Musical)
@Mari as Yamashiro (KanColle)
@Mason Moretti as Starlow (Mario and Luigi series)
@Midnight Maiden as Hiyori Iki (Noragami)
@Minerva as Ritsuka Fujimura (Fate/Grand Order)
@Otto as Talon (League of Legends)
@ShiroKiyoshi as Kusanagi (Phantom of the Kill)
@Takumi as Yato (Noragami)
@thatguyinthestore as Shantae (Shantae)
@The Myrmidon as Alesha, Who Smiles at Death (Magic: the Gathering)
@Verite as Gon Freeces (Hunter X Hunter)
@York as Ami Kawashima (Toradora!)
@Yun Lee as Yumeko Jabami (Kakegurui)​

[Yamashiro: Shrine Maiden Duties]


Yamashiro exhaled in relief as it seemed they were all rightfully absolved of the wrongdoings they were accused of. She smiled, until they were instructed to perform cleanup duties. Though she was seemingly accused of polluting the waters, she shrugged and didn't remember doing that.



"Regardless, the mission is clearly laid out."



She thought about the options presented to the group for their duties. It was an easy choice for Yamashiro; she didn't take very look in arriving at that decision and started to walk towards the lighthouse.



"To the lighthouse I shall go. It is something very familiar to me, after all."



She realized that as a shrine maiden the duty of cleaning wasn't strange to her, either.



@Khan of the Mardu @Yun Lee @lighthouse

 

[thatguyinthestore]

"That truly didn't go well at all," Yusuke mumbled, a flat expression on his face. It looked as if they would be trapped on this godforsaken island a while longer. He glanced to Alesha, who also appeared rather upset. "Let us hope the perverse lies being spread about us shall be eradicated in due time. But, for now, let's get this over with," he added before quietly musing over where he was interested in going. "Would you care to go to the--"

Yusuke found himself cut off, unable to finish his suggestion before Alesha would begin heading for the Lighthouse. "...cafe," he mumbled, in small, hopeful voice before trailing off. He was honestly starving and hoping that the cafe might have food available for them after they finished their work. But, then again, it wasn't as if he couldn't live without eating for long periods of time. His skinny ass had done so many times already. "Nevermind, I'm coming!" he exclaimed, following after her.

@Khan of the Mardu @thatguyinthestore @Yun Lee​

"I'll head to the lighthouse as well!" Luigi exclaimed, following suit behind Yusuke and Alesha. As they walked, Luigi turned to them. "How do you think we're going to get outta this? I mean, that tape looked pretty convincing even though it was-a faked."

---

After thinking for a moment, Shantae looked up and at the group. "I'm gonna go to the cafe." The half-genie stated before doing just that. Really, Shantae could really just use a nice cup of coffee right about now.

---

"I'm gonna stay here at the shine gate." The Koopa King said before crossing his arms and standing in the center of town. He didn't wanna really walk across the entire island for some losers that he didn't care about in the first place.

@Klutzy Ninja Kitty @Khan of the Mardu @Yun Lee @Minerva @LuckycoolHawk9 @Otto @York @thatguyinthestore @ShiroKiyoshi @Mason Moretti @Leon Moretti @Verite @Mari @CrunchyCHEEZIT @Kaykay @Gummi Bunnies @dark @Archmage Jeremiah @Cromartie Sarkissian @Crow @Bucky @Midnight Maiden @Glostechk @Jeremi @J A Y F R OM T H E 6 I X​

 

[Crow]

"Slanderous filth... trusting some twisted seer's device over the word of a khan..." Bitter mutterings would be all that anyone would hear escaping Alesha's lips, her expression one of stewing rage and distrust towards the people of the island, "Raze this whole island to the ground when I return to the horde... bastards will learn what price is paid for falsely blemishing the honor of the Mardu and lying to its khan about their goodwill..." Without even waiting for the others to respond to her mutterings, the woman marched off from the courthouse, heading towards the Lighthouse with a scowl. She would go along with the order to clean for now - her vengeance would come soon enough.

@Klutzy Ninja Kitty @Yun Lee @thatguyinthestore​

[Yamashiro: Shrine Maiden Duties]


Yamashiro exhaled in relief as it seemed they were all rightfully absolved of the wrongdoings they were accused of. She smiled, until they were instructed to perform cleanup duties. Though she was seemingly accused of polluting the waters, she shrugged and didn't remember doing that.



"Regardless, the mission is clearly laid out."



She thought about the options presented to the group for their duties. It was an easy choice for Yamashiro; she didn't take very look in arriving at that decision and started to walk towards the lighthouse.



"To the lighthouse I shall go. It is something very familiar to me, after all."



She realized that as a shrine maiden the duty of cleaning wasn't strange to her, either.



@Khan of the Mardu @Yun Lee @lighthouse

"I'll head to the lighthouse as well!" Luigi exclaimed, following suit behind Yusuke and Alesha. As they walked, Luigi turned to them. "How do you think we're going to get outta this? I mean, that tape looked pretty convincing even though it was-a faked."

---

After thinking for a moment, Shantae looked up and at the group. "I'm gonna go to the cafe." The half-genie stated before doing just that. Really, Shantae could really just use a nice cup of coffee right about now.

---

"I'm gonna stay here at the shine gate." The Koopa King said before crossing his arms and standing in the center of town. He didn't wanna really walk across the entire island for some losers that he didn't care about in the first place.

@Klutzy Ninja Kitty @Khan of the Mardu @Yun Lee @Minerva @LuckycoolHawk9 @Otto @York @thatguyinthestore @ShiroKiyoshi @Mason Moretti @Leon Moretti @Verite @Mari @CrunchyCHEEZIT @Kaykay @Gummi Bunnies @dark @Archmage Jeremiah @Cromartie Sarkissian @Crow @Bucky @Midnight Maiden @Glostechk @Jeremi @J A Y F R OM T H E 6 I X​

Ernesti Echevalier decides to take his mind off the seemingly biased trial. It was a matter to discuss soon.

"The lighthouse is bound to have something!"

@Crow @Khan of the Mardu @Mari @Klutzy Ninja Kitty @Yun Lee @thatguyinthestore @Lighthouse​

 

[Gummi Bunnies]

REPLIES - Delfino Cafe

Bowser rolled his eyes when Yusuke brought up the possibility of him betraying the group.

"You really think I'd care enough to betray you losers? I may not like any'a ya, but unless I see a fat Italian plumber with mustache in a red suit, y'won't haveta worry about me screwin' you over.

Not only that, but I'm really your only hope at gettin' to Corona Mountain. Green Stache was right, I did try and take over Isle Delfino a few years back. Used their precious shine sprites to power my own awesome hottub for my family vacation. I even let Jr. in on my plans. That boy has a wild imagination. Used some magic paintbrush or somethin' to make a weird shadow version'a Mario and framed him."

"W-wait? Did you say that your son made a shadow version of my brother to frame him?" Luigi suddenly asked, sounding more interested in that particular part than the rest of the story.

"Yeah? Whatsittoya?" Bowser asked, a big annoyed that Luigi had interrupted him like that.

"Well, it's just that there's a shadow version of me running around as well!" Luigi said, being able to understand things a bit better now that he knows that Bowser Jr. had done a Shadow Mario years before there was a Shadow Luigi.

"Wha--- Junior isn't supposed to be here! He has homework and chores to do!" Bowser exclaimed, oddly sounding like a legitamately concerned parent as he spoke.

"Well, I don't think it's-a Junior. He said a lot of curse words and just... didn't really sound like your son at all." Luigi said, having dealt with Bowser Jr. first hand on multiple occasions. He had definitely encountered the young Koopa enough times to know how he talked and acted.

"Oh, then that definitely ain't my son. There's a strict no swearing rule in the Koopa household." Bowser said, again sounding like a good parent as he spoke about his son. However, when he continued, he went back to being a complete ass. "But that does mean that there's a friggin' copycat out there. I mean... not like I blame 'em for copying a plan as awesome as one'a mine."



"Oh, there's a third option." Bowser replied. "Option 3 is me beatin' up all you losers and headin' off to take back my volcano base myself." He said, though it was hard to tell if he was being sarcastic or not.

As the Doctor continued talking, the Koopa seemed to grow more and more irritated as time went on. When he finally finished, Bowser managed to avoid having another outburst before continuing.

"What do I bring? Just lookit me! What don't I bring is the better question!"

@Klutzy Ninja Kitty @Jeremi @Crow @Yun Lee @Midnight Maiden @Kentucky @Kaykay @Leon Moretti @Mason Moretti @Verite @Archmage Jeremiah @Otto ​

Episode One:
Plaza Peril!

"You know...maybe Gamera here can help me out. If I could get you to plead your case, maybe we'll be free to go." I-No gave Bowser a smile. "What do you say, big guy? You in?"​

Bowser sat silently for a moment with his arms crossed, not exactly being too keen when it came to working with the good. Though, after a good thirty seconds or so of silence, Bowser reluctantly nodded. "Fine! But none'a you twerps go gettin' any ideas. Like I said earlier, I ain't about t'be pals with any'a you."

"Huh?" One of the guards looked at the little radio on his person, which began to make noise. He lifted it up, listening, before saying, Roger that." Putting it back he looked at the inmates. "It's trial time."

I-No smiled at the group. "Showtime." She left the cell, everyone else escorted behind her into the courtroom. The judge sat at the bench, and in the plaintiff's seat was a Pianta attorney and none other than Kirari herself, watching you all with that same smile on her face.

"I'll try to make this quick," she said, her tone making it clear this has all been decided.

"I'm sure you will," I-No replied with a smirk, sitting at the defendant's seat. The officers have everyone else fill up the audience seats.

"Now then," the judge began, clearing his throat. "The defendants sit charged with the crime of vandalism. How do they plead?"​

"My clients plead not guilty, Your Honor."

"I see. And Mister Luigi sits charged as the main instigator of this criminal organization. How does he plead?"

"Not-a guilty!" The younger Mario brother stated with as much confidence as he could muster.

"Finally, Mister Bowser is charged with being the mastermind behind the attack on Isle Delfino one year ago, as well as evading arrest. Bowser, How do you plead?"​

"Guilty! Erm… I mean not guilty!"

"Well then, would the defense like to present their opening argument?"​

I-No stood, taking on an air of professionalism unseen earlier. "Your Honor, my clients were brought to Isle Delfino on a plane against their will, crashed onto the runway, and arrested for crimes they didn't commit! We have witnesses who saw both Luigi and an imposter that can attest for us. Forcing my clients into a trial without due process is shameful, and I demand you let them go free!"​

The Pianta lawyer stood, walking to the front of the courtroom. "That was a lovely speech, Miss, but unfortunately it amounts to nothing. You see, all witnesses at Delfino Airstrip this afternoon don't remember ever seeing anything in the account!"​

"They could've been lying!"​

"We ran them through a lie detector test!"​

"Damn!"

The lawyer produced a disc from his jacket pocket. "What's more, Miss Momobami here has a video that is solid proof of guilt of everyone! I would like to submit this film into court record."​

"Let's see it first," the judge motioned for the bailiff to put the disc into the court TV, which he did. As the footage started playing, it was clear this was surveillance footage around Isle Delfino. Things seemed normal at first: a hotel by the sea, an amusement park, a harbor...but then, as it changed to a windmill, you could see someone covering it with goop.​

"Wait a minute!" Yumeko said in shock. "Th-That's…!"

The culprit turned around, revealing their face.

"Gon?!"

The camera changed again. Now, Alesha could be seen on a beach, overlooking a group of goop creatures as they attacked bystanders. Another change, this time to a bay, where Yamishiro was polluting the water. The footage changed again and again, showing everyone involved in causing trouble one way or another. Even Mary could be seen at one point, working together with that monster from before. Finally, the footage landed on Shadow Luigi, painting an L on a wall with his brush. He turned around, and laughed, having spotted the camera. Pressing a button on the paintbrush, his blue hue disappeared to reveal…​

...Luigi, in his normal green outfit. He brought his paintbrush over his head and swung, and the camera went to static.

I-No stared in silence, then leaned back in her chair. "Well...we're fucked."

Kirari stood. "Your Honor, the security cameras I paid for all over Isle Delfino have caught all these criminals on tape. I'm afraid there's no other explanation."

"I'm afraid you're right. Unless the defense can explain this tape…"​

"...I got nothing." I-No did stand, however. "But even so, if I may make one request. There are children in this group, who were probably manipulated into helping. Won't you please give them a lighter sentence?"​

"Unfortunately, everyone will receive the same punishment. I sentence you all to clean up the mess you made on this island! Including you, Bowser!"​

"That's a load'a mushrooms! I wasn't even with these twerps when it happened!" Bowser shouted, angry that he had to clean up other people's messes. He wasn't a plumber like Mario or Luigi, after all.

"But you were here one year ago! And you have yet to face any charges! Consider this an extension of that sentencing! Now, you'll all be sent off to Delfino Plaza first! The hub of our humble island needs to be cleaned up first and foremost!" He brought his gavel down. "Court dismissed!"

--------------

Luckily, it turned out you were already in Delfino Plaza, as the courthouse was located just to the east of town square. As everyone was escorted out the next morning, the officers handed them all FLUDD machines and a map of the plaza.

"There are three areas covered in goop," they explained. "The Lighthouse east of here, the Statue at the south of town, and the Tanuki Hut to the west. Clean that all up and come see us when you're done. But no funny business-we'll know if anyone's slacking off."

These guards then proceeded to station themselves at the entrance to the courthouse. Huh. Looks like they won't be watching too closely.

I-No watched them with a sneer. "Protectors of the peace my ass." Turning to the group she frowned. "Sorry I couldn't get you out. That damned video...I hadn't expected that!"
​

"I don't understand how that's even-a possible. We've been together this entire time! Not to mention that we just got here like an hour or so ago." Luigi said, still confused by these events in general.
​

"I swear, it's that damned Momobami. She's definitely got some tricks up her sleeve. I'd try to help more, but I'm afraid I need to be off-I got a note to head to some sort of rendezvous. Time to meet this boss of mine." She sighed. "Watch me completely forget who it is when I leave. Take care, everyone!" With a wave goodbye, I-No was off.

"Take care. I'm-a sorry that things had to be this way." Luigi said, clearly feeling sorry for the poor witch, even if he was the only one in the group who did. She tried her best to help them, and that was enough to earn at least a small amount of respect from Luigi.

Once I-No was out of the way, however, Yumeko stepped forward. "Oh no. She was definitely lying."

"What do you mean?" He asked, confused by what Yumeko meant.

"You didn't see it? Her tell was kind of obvious." She clasped her hands together. "I-No would tap her right index finger when lying, like this." She demonstrated, tapping her own right index finger on her hand. "She did that earlier, in the plane. When she was talking about helping us enjoy paradise, I noticed her tapping her finger on her guitar. And she did it again in jail, saying she couldn't remember anything. I thought maybe it was just coincidence, but she did it just now, too, when apologizing. What, did none of you notice?"
​

Shantae, who had been relatively quiet throughout the ordeal (mostly out of shock from that video and the fact that she simply had nothing to say) shook her head. "No. And I'm usually good at telling when people are lying too." The half-genie said, eyeing Risky Boots with that particular statement.​

"Well, I've always had a knack for perception...or did I? I'm not too sure…Either way, this is turning into quite a fun little trip, isn't it? So unpredictable…"

"It's so exciting."

Just like that, though, Yumeko was back to normal, as if she hadn't changed a bit. "Well, I'm going to explore a little. I'm sure those officers won't mind, right?"

With that, she was off towards the market. You could follow her, or go other places, such as:

• The Shine Gate, the large structure in the center of town
• The Delfino Ferry, which are boats that take you to other small islands nearby
• The Bell Tower, which houses the town bell
• The Delfino Cafe, where it looks as if its owner needs some help

Then there's the Tanuki Hut, Statue, and Lighthouse, which all need cleaning up.

Starring:


@Archmage Jeremiah as Risky Boots (Shantae)
@Bucky as Honoka Kousaka (Love Live!)
@Cromartie Sarkissian as Tony Stark (The Superior Iron Man)
@Crow as Ernesti Echavalier (Knights & Magic)
@CrunchyCHEEZIT as Kars (Jojo's Bizarre Adventure)
@dark as Colonel Mael Radec (Killzone)
@Glostechk as Tsuyu Asui (Boku no Hero Academia)
@Gummi Bunnies as Maria Ushiromiya(Umineko no Naku Koro ni
@J A Y F R OM T H E 6 I X as Toshinori Yagi (Boku no Hero Academia)
@Jeremi as The Fourth Doctor (Doctor Who)
@Kaykay as Hina (Hinamatsuri)
@Kentucky as Peter Parker (The Amazing Spiderman)
@Klutzy Ninja Kitty as Yusuke Kitagawa (Persona 5)
@Leon Moretti as Nagihiko Fujisaki (Shugo Chara!)
@LuckycoolHawk9 as Rita Hanson (Groundhog Day: The Musical)
@Mari as Yamashiro (KanColle)
@Mason Moretti as Starlow (Mario and Luigi series)
@Midnight Maiden as Hiyori Iki (Noragami)
@Minerva as Ritsuka Fujimura (Fate/Grand Order)
@Otto as Talon (League of Legends)
@ShiroKiyoshi as Kusanagi (Phantom of the Kill)
@Takumi as Yato (Noragami)
@thatguyinthestore as Shantae (Shantae)
@The Myrmidon as Alesha, Who Smiles at Death (Magic: the Gathering)
@Verite as Gon Freeces (Hunter X Hunter)
@York as Ami Kawashima (Toradora!)
@Yun Lee as Yumeko Jabami (Kakegurui)​

Well, they were out of jail, and probably not getting the Black Boxes back. That sucked, but hopefully the NTSB would arrive soon and take custody of them. (Hint: They wouldn't, because this is Murder)

Ritsuka looked around the area. She then went to The Delfino Cafe. Perhaps she would be able to help out the owners there."Hello! I see you could use some help." She said in a polite tone.

@Anyone

After thinking for a moment, Shantae looked up and at the group. "I'm gonna go to the cafe." The half-genie stated before doing just that. Really, Shantae could really just use a nice cup of coffee right about now.

❝ I want to go to the cafe with you too, Shantae! Uu! ❞ Maria figured a small trip to the cafe wouldn't be a problem. Maybe set up a mini tea party there before doing the work that's been placed onto them.

@Yun Lee @thatguyinthestore @Minerva @cafecrew​

 

[Cromartie Sarkissian]

Episode One:
Plaza Peril!

"You know...maybe Gamera here can help me out. If I could get you to plead your case, maybe we'll be free to go." I-No gave Bowser a smile. "What do you say, big guy? You in?"​

Bowser sat silently for a moment with his arms crossed, not exactly being too keen when it came to working with the good. Though, after a good thirty seconds or so of silence, Bowser reluctantly nodded. "Fine! But none'a you twerps go gettin' any ideas. Like I said earlier, I ain't about t'be pals with any'a you."

"Huh?" One of the guards looked at the little radio on his person, which began to make noise. He lifted it up, listening, before saying, Roger that." Putting it back he looked at the inmates. "It's trial time."

I-No smiled at the group. "Showtime." She left the cell, everyone else escorted behind her into the courtroom. The judge sat at the bench, and in the plaintiff's seat was a Pianta attorney and none other than Kirari herself, watching you all with that same smile on her face.

"I'll try to make this quick," she said, her tone making it clear this has all been decided.

"I'm sure you will," I-No replied with a smirk, sitting at the defendant's seat. The officers have everyone else fill up the audience seats.

"Now then," the judge began, clearing his throat. "The defendants sit charged with the crime of vandalism. How do they plead?"​

"My clients plead not guilty, Your Honor."

"I see. And Mister Luigi sits charged as the main instigator of this criminal organization. How does he plead?"

"Not-a guilty!" The younger Mario brother stated with as much confidence as he could muster.

"Finally, Mister Bowser is charged with being the mastermind behind the attack on Isle Delfino one year ago, as well as evading arrest. Bowser, How do you plead?"​

"Guilty! Erm… I mean not guilty!"

"Well then, would the defense like to present their opening argument?"​

I-No stood, taking on an air of professionalism unseen earlier. "Your Honor, my clients were brought to Isle Delfino on a plane against their will, crashed onto the runway, and arrested for crimes they didn't commit! We have witnesses who saw both Luigi and an imposter that can attest for us. Forcing my clients into a trial without due process is shameful, and I demand you let them go free!"​

The Pianta lawyer stood, walking to the front of the courtroom. "That was a lovely speech, Miss, but unfortunately it amounts to nothing. You see, all witnesses at Delfino Airstrip this afternoon don't remember ever seeing anything in the account!"​

"They could've been lying!"​

"We ran them through a lie detector test!"​

"Damn!"

The lawyer produced a disc from his jacket pocket. "What's more, Miss Momobami here has a video that is solid proof of guilt of everyone! I would like to submit this film into court record."​

"Let's see it first," the judge motioned for the bailiff to put the disc into the court TV, which he did. As the footage started playing, it was clear this was surveillance footage around Isle Delfino. Things seemed normal at first: a hotel by the sea, an amusement park, a harbor...but then, as it changed to a windmill, you could see someone covering it with goop.​

"Wait a minute!" Yumeko said in shock. "Th-That's…!"

The culprit turned around, revealing their face.

"Gon?!"

The camera changed again. Now, Alesha could be seen on a beach, overlooking a group of goop creatures as they attacked bystanders. Another change, this time to a bay, where Yamishiro was polluting the water. The footage changed again and again, showing everyone involved in causing trouble one way or another. Even Mary could be seen at one point, working together with that monster from before. Finally, the footage landed on Shadow Luigi, painting an L on a wall with his brush. He turned around, and laughed, having spotted the camera. Pressing a button on the paintbrush, his blue hue disappeared to reveal…​

...Luigi, in his normal green outfit. He brought his paintbrush over his head and swung, and the camera went to static.

I-No stared in silence, then leaned back in her chair. "Well...we're fucked."

Kirari stood. "Your Honor, the security cameras I paid for all over Isle Delfino have caught all these criminals on tape. I'm afraid there's no other explanation."

"I'm afraid you're right. Unless the defense can explain this tape…"​

"...I got nothing." I-No did stand, however. "But even so, if I may make one request. There are children in this group, who were probably manipulated into helping. Won't you please give them a lighter sentence?"​

"Unfortunately, everyone will receive the same punishment. I sentence you all to clean up the mess you made on this island! Including you, Bowser!"​

"That's a load'a mushrooms! I wasn't even with these twerps when it happened!" Bowser shouted, angry that he had to clean up other people's messes. He wasn't a plumber like Mario or Luigi, after all.

"But you were here one year ago! And you have yet to face any charges! Consider this an extension of that sentencing! Now, you'll all be sent off to Delfino Plaza first! The hub of our humble island needs to be cleaned up first and foremost!" He brought his gavel down. "Court dismissed!"

--------------

Luckily, it turned out you were already in Delfino Plaza, as the courthouse was located just to the east of town square. As everyone was escorted out the next morning, the officers handed them all FLUDD machines and a map of the plaza.

"There are three areas covered in goop," they explained. "The Lighthouse east of here, the Statue at the south of town, and the Tanuki Hut to the west. Clean that all up and come see us when you're done. But no funny business-we'll know if anyone's slacking off."

These guards then proceeded to station themselves at the entrance to the courthouse. Huh. Looks like they won't be watching too closely.

I-No watched them with a sneer. "Protectors of the peace my ass." Turning to the group she frowned. "Sorry I couldn't get you out. That damned video...I hadn't expected that!"
​

"I don't understand how that's even-a possible. We've been together this entire time! Not to mention that we just got here like an hour or so ago." Luigi said, still confused by these events in general.
​

"I swear, it's that damned Momobami. She's definitely got some tricks up her sleeve. I'd try to help more, but I'm afraid I need to be off-I got a note to head to some sort of rendezvous. Time to meet this boss of mine." She sighed. "Watch me completely forget who it is when I leave. Take care, everyone!" With a wave goodbye, I-No was off.

"Take care. I'm-a sorry that things had to be this way." Luigi said, clearly feeling sorry for the poor witch, even if he was the only one in the group who did. She tried her best to help them, and that was enough to earn at least a small amount of respect from Luigi.

Once I-No was out of the way, however, Yumeko stepped forward. "Oh no. She was definitely lying."

"What do you mean?" He asked, confused by what Yumeko meant.

"You didn't see it? Her tell was kind of obvious." She clasped her hands together. "I-No would tap her right index finger when lying, like this." She demonstrated, tapping her own right index finger on her hand. "She did that earlier, in the plane. When she was talking about helping us enjoy paradise, I noticed her tapping her finger on her guitar. And she did it again in jail, saying she couldn't remember anything. I thought maybe it was just coincidence, but she did it just now, too, when apologizing. What, did none of you notice?"
​

Shantae, who had been relatively quiet throughout the ordeal (mostly out of shock from that video and the fact that she simply had nothing to say) shook her head. "No. And I'm usually good at telling when people are lying too." The half-genie said, eyeing Risky Boots with that particular statement.​

"Well, I've always had a knack for perception...or did I? I'm not too sure…Either way, this is turning into quite a fun little trip, isn't it? So unpredictable…"

"It's so exciting."

Just like that, though, Yumeko was back to normal, as if she hadn't changed a bit. "Well, I'm going to explore a little. I'm sure those officers won't mind, right?"

With that, she was off towards the market. You could follow her, or go other places, such as:

• The Shine Gate, the large structure in the center of town
• The Delfino Ferry, which are boats that take you to other small islands nearby
• The Bell Tower, which houses the town bell
• The Delfino Cafe, where it looks as if its owner needs some help

Then there's the Tanuki Hut, Statue, and Lighthouse, which all need cleaning up.

Starring:


@Archmage Jeremiah as Risky Boots (Shantae)
@Bucky as Honoka Kousaka (Love Live!)
@Cromartie Sarkissian as Tony Stark (The Superior Iron Man)
@Crow as Ernesti Echavalier (Knights & Magic)
@CrunchyCHEEZIT as Kars (Jojo's Bizarre Adventure)
@dark as Colonel Mael Radec (Killzone)
@Glostechk as Tsuyu Asui (Boku no Hero Academia)
@Gummi Bunnies as Maria Ushiromiya(Umineko no Naku Koro ni
@J A Y F R OM T H E 6 I X as Toshinori Yagi (Boku no Hero Academia)
@Jeremi as The Fourth Doctor (Doctor Who)
@Kaykay as Hina (Hinamatsuri)
@Kentucky as Peter Parker (The Amazing Spiderman)
@Klutzy Ninja Kitty as Yusuke Kitagawa (Persona 5)
@Leon Moretti as Nagihiko Fujisaki (Shugo Chara!)
@LuckycoolHawk9 as Rita Hanson (Groundhog Day: The Musical)
@Mari as Yamashiro (KanColle)
@Mason Moretti as Starlow (Mario and Luigi series)
@Midnight Maiden as Hiyori Iki (Noragami)
@Minerva as Ritsuka Fujimura (Fate/Grand Order)
@Otto as Talon (League of Legends)
@ShiroKiyoshi as Kusanagi (Phantom of the Kill)
@Takumi as Yato (Noragami)
@thatguyinthestore as Shantae (Shantae)
@The Myrmidon as Alesha, Who Smiles at Death (Magic: the Gathering)
@Verite as Gon Freeces (Hunter X Hunter)
@York as Ami Kawashima (Toradora!)
@Yun Lee as Yumeko Jabami (Kakegurui)​

"Could be worse" Tony muttered, locking and loading his FLUUD "We got community service as a punishment for committing what any lawyer worth his salt would have called an act of terror. We got off easy". Tony pinched the machine's neck between his index finger thumb, slowly analyzing the mechanisms that made up the device's joint. This thing was practically Victorian! A simple ball joint and spring? How could they expect a man like him to work under these conditions! This was worse than getting his first restraining order...
"The real punishment here is having to use this primitive hunk of crap. Honestly... I was building this sort of trash when I was 9...Maybe I could at least grab a decent cup of coffee before I throw myself into the fucking pier..."

And so, Tony made his way off towards the Delfino Cafe, passing Ritsuka along the way

"C'mon kid...might as well get this over and done with..."

@Yun Lee @Minerva

 

[Khan of the Mardu]

"That truly didn't go well at all," Yusuke mumbled, a flat expression on his face. It looked as if they would be trapped on this godforsaken island a while longer. He glanced to Alesha, who also appeared rather upset. "Let us hope the perverse lies being spread about us shall be eradicated in due time. But, for now, let's get this over with," he added before quietly musing over where he was interested in going. "Would you care to go to the--"

Yusuke found himself cut off, unable to finish his suggestion before Alesha would begin heading for the Lighthouse. "...cafe," he mumbled, in small, hopeful voice before trailing off. He was honestly starving and hoping that the cafe might have food available for them after they finished their work. But, then again, it wasn't as if he couldn't live without eating for long periods of time. His skinny ass had done so many times already. "Nevermind, I'm coming!" he exclaimed, following after her.

@Khan of the Mardu @thatguyinthestore @Yun Lee​

"I'll head to the lighthouse as well!" Luigi exclaimed, following suit behind Yusuke and Alesha. As they walked, Luigi turned to them. "How do you think we're going to get outta this? I mean, that tape looked pretty convincing even though it was-a faked."

---

After thinking for a moment, Shantae looked up and at the group. "I'm gonna go to the cafe." The half-genie stated before doing just that. Really, Shantae could really just use a nice cup of coffee right about now.

---

"I'm gonna stay here at the shine gate." The Koopa King said before crossing his arms and standing in the center of town. He didn't wanna really walk across the entire island for some losers that he didn't care about in the first place.

@Klutzy Ninja Kitty @Khan of the Mardu @Yun Lee @Minerva @LuckycoolHawk9 @Otto @York @thatguyinthestore @ShiroKiyoshi @Mason Moretti @Leon Moretti @Verite @Mari @CrunchyCHEEZIT @Kaykay @Gummi Bunnies @dark @Archmage Jeremiah @Cromartie Sarkissian @Crow @Bucky @Midnight Maiden @Glostechk @Jeremi @J A Y F R OM T H E 6 I X​

"We'll find food along the way, or visit the cafe afterwards," Alesha answered Yusuke as she snapped out of her muttering, now worried over her companion. The heat of the moment and her rage had distracted her from his needs... she would have to make it up to him somehow. "For now? We clean up this mess... that is the only recourse available to us that will not draw further accusations, Luigi."

@Yun Lee @thatguyinthestore @Klutzy Ninja Kitty​

 

[Mari]

"I'll head to the lighthouse as well!" Luigi exclaimed, following suit behind Yusuke and Alesha. As they walked, Luigi turned to them. "How do you think we're going to get outta this? I mean, that tape looked pretty convincing even though it was-a faked."

---

After thinking for a moment, Shantae looked up and at the group. "I'm gonna go to the cafe." The half-genie stated before doing just that. Really, Shantae could really just use a nice cup of coffee right about now.

---

"I'm gonna stay here at the shine gate." The Koopa King said before crossing his arms and standing in the center of town. He didn't wanna really walk across the entire island for some losers that he didn't care about in the first place.

@Klutzy Ninja Kitty @Khan of the Mardu @Yun Lee @Minerva @LuckycoolHawk9 @Otto @York @thatguyinthestore @ShiroKiyoshi @Mason Moretti @Leon Moretti @Verite @Mari @CrunchyCHEEZIT @Kaykay @Gummi Bunnies @dark @Archmage Jeremiah @Cromartie Sarkissian @Crow @Bucky @Midnight Maiden @Glostechk @Jeremi @J A Y F R OM T H E 6 I X​

Yamashiro nodded to the strange man (Luigi?) in agreement. She felt relieved that she wasn't the only one that noticed something that wasn't true... at least to her memory.



"I am glad I was not the only one to notice. I certainly do not remember doing anything that was shown there. The evidence presented was very... mysterious."







@Crow @Khan of the Mardu @Crow @Klutzy Ninja Kitty @Yun Lee @thatguyinthestore @Lighthouse

 

[Archmage Jeremiah]

Episode One:
Plaza Peril!

"You know...maybe Gamera here can help me out. If I could get you to plead your case, maybe we'll be free to go." I-No gave Bowser a smile. "What do you say, big guy? You in?"​

Bowser sat silently for a moment with his arms crossed, not exactly being too keen when it came to working with the good. Though, after a good thirty seconds or so of silence, Bowser reluctantly nodded. "Fine! But none'a you twerps go gettin' any ideas. Like I said earlier, I ain't about t'be pals with any'a you."

"Huh?" One of the guards looked at the little radio on his person, which began to make noise. He lifted it up, listening, before saying, Roger that." Putting it back he looked at the inmates. "It's trial time."

I-No smiled at the group. "Showtime." She left the cell, everyone else escorted behind her into the courtroom. The judge sat at the bench, and in the plaintiff's seat was a Pianta attorney and none other than Kirari herself, watching you all with that same smile on her face.

"I'll try to make this quick," she said, her tone making it clear this has all been decided.

"I'm sure you will," I-No replied with a smirk, sitting at the defendant's seat. The officers have everyone else fill up the audience seats.

"Now then," the judge began, clearing his throat. "The defendants sit charged with the crime of vandalism. How do they plead?"​

"My clients plead not guilty, Your Honor."

"I see. And Mister Luigi sits charged as the main instigator of this criminal organization. How does he plead?"

"Not-a guilty!" The younger Mario brother stated with as much confidence as he could muster.

"Finally, Mister Bowser is charged with being the mastermind behind the attack on Isle Delfino one year ago, as well as evading arrest. Bowser, How do you plead?"​

"Guilty! Erm… I mean not guilty!"

"Well then, would the defense like to present their opening argument?"​

I-No stood, taking on an air of professionalism unseen earlier. "Your Honor, my clients were brought to Isle Delfino on a plane against their will, crashed onto the runway, and arrested for crimes they didn't commit! We have witnesses who saw both Luigi and an imposter that can attest for us. Forcing my clients into a trial without due process is shameful, and I demand you let them go free!"​

The Pianta lawyer stood, walking to the front of the courtroom. "That was a lovely speech, Miss, but unfortunately it amounts to nothing. You see, all witnesses at Delfino Airstrip this afternoon don't remember ever seeing anything in the account!"​

"They could've been lying!"​

"We ran them through a lie detector test!"​

"Damn!"

The lawyer produced a disc from his jacket pocket. "What's more, Miss Momobami here has a video that is solid proof of guilt of everyone! I would like to submit this film into court record."​

"Let's see it first," the judge motioned for the bailiff to put the disc into the court TV, which he did. As the footage started playing, it was clear this was surveillance footage around Isle Delfino. Things seemed normal at first: a hotel by the sea, an amusement park, a harbor...but then, as it changed to a windmill, you could see someone covering it with goop.​

"Wait a minute!" Yumeko said in shock. "Th-That's…!"

The culprit turned around, revealing their face.

"Gon?!"

The camera changed again. Now, Alesha could be seen on a beach, overlooking a group of goop creatures as they attacked bystanders. Another change, this time to a bay, where Yamishiro was polluting the water. The footage changed again and again, showing everyone involved in causing trouble one way or another. Even Mary could be seen at one point, working together with that monster from before. Finally, the footage landed on Shadow Luigi, painting an L on a wall with his brush. He turned around, and laughed, having spotted the camera. Pressing a button on the paintbrush, his blue hue disappeared to reveal…​

...Luigi, in his normal green outfit. He brought his paintbrush over his head and swung, and the camera went to static.

I-No stared in silence, then leaned back in her chair. "Well...we're fucked."

Kirari stood. "Your Honor, the security cameras I paid for all over Isle Delfino have caught all these criminals on tape. I'm afraid there's no other explanation."

"I'm afraid you're right. Unless the defense can explain this tape…"​

"...I got nothing." I-No did stand, however. "But even so, if I may make one request. There are children in this group, who were probably manipulated into helping. Won't you please give them a lighter sentence?"​

"Unfortunately, everyone will receive the same punishment. I sentence you all to clean up the mess you made on this island! Including you, Bowser!"​

"That's a load'a mushrooms! I wasn't even with these twerps when it happened!" Bowser shouted, angry that he had to clean up other people's messes. He wasn't a plumber like Mario or Luigi, after all.

"But you were here one year ago! And you have yet to face any charges! Consider this an extension of that sentencing! Now, you'll all be sent off to Delfino Plaza first! The hub of our humble island needs to be cleaned up first and foremost!" He brought his gavel down. "Court dismissed!"

--------------

Luckily, it turned out you were already in Delfino Plaza, as the courthouse was located just to the east of town square. As everyone was escorted out the next morning, the officers handed them all FLUDD machines and a map of the plaza.

"There are three areas covered in goop," they explained. "The Lighthouse east of here, the Statue at the south of town, and the Tanuki Hut to the west. Clean that all up and come see us when you're done. But no funny business-we'll know if anyone's slacking off."

These guards then proceeded to station themselves at the entrance to the courthouse. Huh. Looks like they won't be watching too closely.

I-No watched them with a sneer. "Protectors of the peace my ass." Turning to the group she frowned. "Sorry I couldn't get you out. That damned video...I hadn't expected that!"
​

"I don't understand how that's even-a possible. We've been together this entire time! Not to mention that we just got here like an hour or so ago." Luigi said, still confused by these events in general.
​

"I swear, it's that damned Momobami. She's definitely got some tricks up her sleeve. I'd try to help more, but I'm afraid I need to be off-I got a note to head to some sort of rendezvous. Time to meet this boss of mine." She sighed. "Watch me completely forget who it is when I leave. Take care, everyone!" With a wave goodbye, I-No was off.

"Take care. I'm-a sorry that things had to be this way." Luigi said, clearly feeling sorry for the poor witch, even if he was the only one in the group who did. She tried her best to help them, and that was enough to earn at least a small amount of respect from Luigi.

Once I-No was out of the way, however, Yumeko stepped forward. "Oh no. She was definitely lying."

"What do you mean?" He asked, confused by what Yumeko meant.

"You didn't see it? Her tell was kind of obvious." She clasped her hands together. "I-No would tap her right index finger when lying, like this." She demonstrated, tapping her own right index finger on her hand. "She did that earlier, in the plane. When she was talking about helping us enjoy paradise, I noticed her tapping her finger on her guitar. And she did it again in jail, saying she couldn't remember anything. I thought maybe it was just coincidence, but she did it just now, too, when apologizing. What, did none of you notice?"
​

Shantae, who had been relatively quiet throughout the ordeal (mostly out of shock from that video and the fact that she simply had nothing to say) shook her head. "No. And I'm usually good at telling when people are lying too." The half-genie said, eyeing Risky Boots with that particular statement.​

"Well, I've always had a knack for perception...or did I? I'm not too sure…Either way, this is turning into quite a fun little trip, isn't it? So unpredictable…"

"It's so exciting."

Just like that, though, Yumeko was back to normal, as if she hadn't changed a bit. "Well, I'm going to explore a little. I'm sure those officers won't mind, right?"

With that, she was off towards the market. You could follow her, or go other places, such as:

• The Shine Gate, the large structure in the center of town
• The Delfino Ferry, which are boats that take you to other small islands nearby
• The Bell Tower, which houses the town bell
• The Delfino Cafe, where it looks as if its owner needs some help

Then there's the Tanuki Hut, Statue, and Lighthouse, which all need cleaning up.

Starring:


@Archmage Jeremiah as Risky Boots (Shantae)
@Bucky as Honoka Kousaka (Love Live!)
@Cromartie Sarkissian as Tony Stark (The Superior Iron Man)
@Crow as Ernesti Echavalier (Knights & Magic)
@CrunchyCHEEZIT as Kars (Jojo's Bizarre Adventure)
@dark as Colonel Mael Radec (Killzone)
@Glostechk as Tsuyu Asui (Boku no Hero Academia)
@Gummi Bunnies as Maria Ushiromiya(Umineko no Naku Koro ni
@J A Y F R OM T H E 6 I X as Toshinori Yagi (Boku no Hero Academia)
@Jeremi as The Fourth Doctor (Doctor Who)
@Kaykay as Hina (Hinamatsuri)
@Kentucky as Peter Parker (The Amazing Spiderman)
@Klutzy Ninja Kitty as Yusuke Kitagawa (Persona 5)
@Leon Moretti as Nagihiko Fujisaki (Shugo Chara!)
@LuckycoolHawk9 as Rita Hanson (Groundhog Day: The Musical)
@Mari as Yamashiro (KanColle)
@Mason Moretti as Starlow (Mario and Luigi series)
@Midnight Maiden as Hiyori Iki (Noragami)
@Minerva as Ritsuka Fujimura (Fate/Grand Order)
@Otto as Talon (League of Legends)
@ShiroKiyoshi as Kusanagi (Phantom of the Kill)
@Takumi as Yato (Noragami)
@thatguyinthestore as Shantae (Shantae)
@The Myrmidon as Alesha, Who Smiles at Death (Magic: the Gathering)
@Verite as Gon Freeces (Hunter X Hunter)
@York as Ami Kawashima (Toradora!)
@Yun Lee as Yumeko Jabami (Kakegurui)​

As Yumeko rounded a corner and escaped out of sight, Risky Boots rolled her head and came to meet Shantae's pointed look, not appearing at all fazed by it. At least, no more fazed than she was by everything else.



"Now what did I say before the trial? Hm?" Risky grumbled, and easily kept up with Shantae while she swaggered to the café alongside her, "Well...the deck is stacked against us now more than ever, but I'm not about to keel over and accept it; not until I dance the hempen jig," she continued on a bleaker note, "And assuming you're the same Shantae I've always known, it looks like we'll be working together again," Risky glanced across to see Maria run up and join them, and her normal grin returned. "Along with some...new additions,"

@Yun Lee @thatguyinthestore @Gummi Bunnies @Cromartie Sarkissian @Minerva @Klutzy Ninja Kitty @Khan of the Mardu​

 

[Crow]

"We'll find food along the way, or visit the cafe afterwards," Alesha answered Yusuke as she snapped out of her muttering, now worried over her companion. The heat of the moment and her rage had distracted her from his needs... she would have to make it up to him somehow. "For now? We clean up this mess... that is the only recourse available to us that will not draw further accusations, Luigi."

@Yun Lee @thatguyinthestore @Klutzy Ninja Kitty​

Yamashiro nodded to the strange man (Luigi?) in agreement. She felt relieved that she wasn't the only one that noticed something that wasn't true... at least to her memory.



"I am glad I was not the only one to notice. I certainly do not remember doing anything that was shown there. The evidence presented was very... mysterious."







@Crow @Khan of the Mardu @Crow @Klutzy Ninja Kitty @Yun Lee @thatguyinthestore @Lighthouse

"I noticed the part where Shadow Luigi just... turned into Luigi. What if those others weren't us, but Shadow versions of us?"

Ernesti's smile widened.

"That would be so cool! Even better if Shadow-Me has his own Shadow Ikaruga. We'd face each other in an epic duel to the death - robot versus robot, the true one and the shadow, a definite equal matchup!"

@Mari @Khan of the Mardu @Crow @Klutzy Ninja Kitty @Yun Lee @thatguyinthestore @Lighthouse​

 

[Khan of the Mardu]

"I noticed the part where Shadow Luigi just... turned into Luigi. What if those others weren't us, but Shadow versions of us?"

Ernesti's smile widened.

"That would be so cool! Even better if Shadow-Me has his own Shadow Ikaruga. We'd face each other in an epic duel to the death - robot versus robot, the true one and the shadow, a definite equal matchup!"

@Mari @Khan of the Mardu @Crow @Klutzy Ninja Kitty @Yun Lee @thatguyinthestore @Lighthouse​

"Possibly, yes, they were doppelgangers much like Luigi's lookalike..." Before her comment was done being made, Alesha was always giving Ernesti a pondering expression, cocking a brow at her strange imagination. Well, she was at least right in thinking of a duel, but robots against robots? "Give my clone and I blades over fancy machinery any day - the only proper duel is one done in the way of the Mardu."

@Mari @Crow @Klutzy Ninja Kitty @Yun Lee @thatguyinthestore​

 

[Husk]

Talon | @>>>>Shine Gate
@Yun Lee @thatguyinthestore @anyone

---

​

I-No rolled her eyes. "You guys are so offbeat about everything that I can't even enjoy that apology! Let me get you all up to tempo. I didn't kidnap anyone, and I'm not the one holding you all captive. I've been hired to oversee what goes on around here by..." I-No froze, putting a hand to her head. "...shit. I can't remember. You've gotta be kidding me..."​

"You mean I'm getting the same treatment as her?!" I-No pointed to Yumeko. "Damn it! That fucker tricked me...whoever he is! Ugh, when I get my hands on him, I swear I'll leave him with his ears ringing!" She breathed hard a moment, then stopped, sighing as she held onto the bars of the cell. "...look. I...ugh. I'm sorry for what happened on the plane. I know I can get a bit...tempermental sometimes. But it looks like I'm just as screwed as the rest of you."

"Hey! What do you think you're doing?!" A guard quickly tased Bowser while the other pulled Alesha out of the way. "We said no violence, buddy!"

While they were distracted, I-No took a moment to keep talking. "Listen. Whoever the heck this Kirari Momobami is...I'd bet my hat that she's the one who wants to use you all for her own devices. Hell, I bet she's trying to fuck with my memory to save her own ass! So I'll tell you what. I'm going to do what I can to get you guys out of here. I can try to use my magic to refute that evidence of her, because between you and me? I bet it's forged."​

"..."

Talon still didn't buy it, but her sudden change of personality did make her more convincing. He decided to stay quiet for now since she was actually planning on getting him and everyone else out of here.
​

"I swear, it's that damned Momobami. She's definitely got some tricks up her sleeve. I'd try to help more, but I'm afraid I need to be off-I got a note to head to some sort of rendezvous. Time to meet this boss of mine." She sighed. "Watch me completely forget who it is when I leave. Take care, everyone!" With a wave goodbye, I-No was off.

"Oh no. She was definitely lying."

"What do you mean?" He asked, confused by what Yumeko meant.

"You didn't see it? Her tell was kind of obvious." She clasped her hands together. "I-No would tap her right index finger when lying, like this." She demonstrated, tapping her own right index finger on her hand. "She did that earlier, in the plane. When she was talking about helping us enjoy paradise, I noticed her tapping her finger on her guitar. And she did it again in jail, saying she couldn't remember anything. I thought maybe it was just coincidence, but she did it just now, too, when apologizing. What, did none of you notice?"
​

Shantae, who had been relatively quiet throughout the ordeal (mostly out of shock from that video and the fact that she simply had nothing to say) shook her head. "No. And I'm usually good at telling when people are lying too." The half-genie said, eyeing Risky Boots with that particular statement.​

"Well, I've always had a knack for perception...or did I? I'm not too sure…Either way, this is turning into quite a fun little trip, isn't it? So unpredictable…"

"It's so exciting."

Just like that, though, Yumeko was back to normal, as if she hadn't changed a bit. "Well, I'm going to explore a little. I'm sure those officers won't mind, right?"

With that, she was off towards the market. You could follow her, or go other places, such as:

• The Shine Gate, the large structure in the center of town
• The Delfino Ferry, which are boats that take you to other small islands nearby
• The Bell Tower, which houses the town bell
• The Delfino Cafe, where it looks as if its owner needs some help

Then there's the Tanuki Hut, Statue, and Lighthouse, which all need cleaning up.​

"I knew that witch was lying... She lost her credibility the moment she talked about deriving pleasure from our emotions."​

"I'm gonna stay here at the shine gate." The Koopa King said before crossing his arms and standing in the center of town. He didn't wanna really walk across the entire island for some losers that he didn't care about in the first place.​

Talon also stayed at the shine gate.

"It seems that we're one of the few real criminals among this group... I'm surprised they're not locking us up for good."

He laughed for a moment.

"It'd be criminal to even give us a chance at freedom!"​

 

[Midnight Maiden]

Hands growing sweaty, the delivery god's gut twisted as the more he tried to remember what he had last been doing, at least, before the call. Who had called him? What was the call about? He didn't even remember if any words were exchanged.

A frustrated sigh escaped him.

Then Hiyori came to her senses, which calmed his nerves some.


"I'm surprised you were the one to get tased, Hiyori. Usually I'm the one who ends up getting hurt the most, are you alright?" Yato asked, glad she seemed okay.

I-No stared in silence, then leaned back in her chair. "Well...we're fucked."

Kirari stood. "Your Honor, the security cameras I paid for all over Isle Delfino have caught all these criminals on tape. I'm afraid there's no other explanation."

"I'm afraid you're right. Unless the defense can explain this tape…"​

"...I got nothing." I-No did stand, however. "But even so, if I may make one request. There are children in this group, who were probably manipulated into helping. Won't you please give them a lighter sentence?"​

"Unfortunately, everyone will receive the same punishment. I sentence you all to clean up the mess you made on this island! Including you, Bowser!"​

"That's a load'a mushrooms! I wasn't even with these twerps when it happened!" Bowser shouted, angry that he had to clean up other people's messes. He wasn't a plumber like Mario or Luigi, after all.

"But you were here one year ago! And you have yet to face any charges! Consider this an extension of that sentencing! Now, you'll all be sent off to Delfino Plaza first! The hub of our humble island needs to be cleaned up first and foremost!" He brought his gavel down. "Court dismissed!"

--------------

Luckily, it turned out you were already in Delfino Plaza, as the courthouse was located just to the east of town square. As everyone was escorted out the next morning, the officers handed them all FLUDD machines and a map of the plaza.

"There are three areas covered in goop," they explained. "The Lighthouse east of here, the Statue at the south of town, and the Tanuki Hut to the west. Clean that all up and come see us when you're done. But no funny business-we'll know if anyone's slacking off."

These guards then proceeded to station themselves at the entrance to the courthouse. Huh. Looks like they won't be watching too closely.

I-No watched them with a sneer. "Protectors of the peace my ass." Turning to the group she frowned. "Sorry I couldn't get you out. That damned video...I hadn't expected that!"
​

"I don't understand how that's even-a possible. We've been together this entire time! Not to mention that we just got here like an hour or so ago." Luigi said, still confused by these events in general.
​

"I swear, it's that damned Momobami. She's definitely got some tricks up her sleeve. I'd try to help more, but I'm afraid I need to be off-I got a note to head to some sort of rendezvous. Time to meet this boss of mine." She sighed. "Watch me completely forget who it is when I leave. Take care, everyone!" With a wave goodbye, I-No was off.

"Take care. I'm-a sorry that things had to be this way." Luigi said, clearly feeling sorry for the poor witch, even if he was the only one in the group who did. She tried her best to help them, and that was enough to earn at least a small amount of respect from Luigi.

Once I-No was out of the way, however, Yumeko stepped forward. "Oh no. She was definitely lying."

"What do you mean?" He asked, confused by what Yumeko meant.

"You didn't see it? Her tell was kind of obvious." She clasped her hands together. "I-No would tap her right index finger when lying, like this." She demonstrated, tapping her own right index finger on her hand. "She did that earlier, in the plane. When she was talking about helping us enjoy paradise, I noticed her tapping her finger on her guitar. And she did it again in jail, saying she couldn't remember anything. I thought maybe it was just coincidence, but she did it just now, too, when apologizing. What, did none of you notice?"
​

Shantae, who had been relatively quiet throughout the ordeal (mostly out of shock from that video and the fact that she simply had nothing to say) shook her head. "No. And I'm usually good at telling when people are lying too." The half-genie said, eyeing Risky Boots with that particular statement.​

"Well, I've always had a knack for perception...or did I? I'm not too sure…Either way, this is turning into quite a fun little trip, isn't it? So unpredictable…"

"It's so exciting."

Just like that, though, Yumeko was back to normal, as if she hadn't changed a bit. "Well, I'm going to explore a little. I'm sure those officers won't mind, right?"

With that, she was off towards the market. You could follow her, or go other places, such as:

• The Shine Gate, the large structure in the center of town
• The Delfino Ferry, which are boats that take you to other small islands nearby
• The Bell Tower, which houses the town bell
• The Delfino Cafe, where it looks as if its owner needs some help

Then there's the Tanuki Hut, Statue, and Lighthouse, which all need cleaning up.​

While having Yato so close and evidently watching over her was comforting, Hiyori felt slightly sheepish from his comment about him typically being the one to get hurt. She smiled faintly, an awkward air about the thing, and rubbed her head with her foot scuffing the ground slightly as she did so. "Hey, it wasn't that bad..." she mumbled, seeming almost embarrassed to have had such a minor injury as hers compared to the shamefully intense ones Yato typically received. But her embarrassment from the comparison was ebbed away by his question as to whether she was alright, leading her hand to drop to her side, eyes reopening and mouth falling slightly agape as she gazed at him. After what was probably just a tad too long, she managed a reply. "Ah, yes, I'm fine. Thank you. Yato."

With that, she had intended to reply to Bowser and explain her sentiments, but any intentions of doing so were cut away by their removal from the cell. The trip to the courtroom was an anxiety-inducing thing, and Hiyori found her voice lost due to the events that transpired within it. What the hell...? How could that video exist? None of them had done any such things! Of course, that didn't matter. This false evidence, however it had come to be, was damning. And that fact chilled Hiyori to the bone.

Fortunately, it didn't seem it meant a lifetime in prison, or anything so severe. Instead, it meant cleaning up this odd place they had wound up in, which, Hiyori could live with. She was happy to assist others, and if this goop was causing problems, it would be her pleasure to remove it. But the issue stood: who had framed them? Why? And what was the big scheme behind it? Those were the things about the situation that made her skin prickle.

"..."

Okay. So she really didn't get the whole FLUDD thing. At all. It took a few runs of accidentally squirting people, promptly offering numerous fervent apologies, and unintentionally blasting up off of the ground just enough to make her fall forward a few times to really get how it worked. Yet she was not deterred, remaining near Yato and finally, once she had figured out the workings of the machine, gaining the courage to discuss the matter at hand.

"Yato," she spoke only after taking his hand and giving it a small squeeze, voice gentle but firm. "I'm going to the Tanuki Hut. But first, I need to know..." Eugh. Here it came. The question bothering her since she had discovered that the god was along on this absolutely insane roller coaster of... insanity.

"Where is Yukine?"

@Takumi @Yun Lee @Tanuki Hut(SHORTLY)​

 

[Minerva]

"Could be worse" Tony muttered, locking and loading his FLUUD "We got community service as a punishment for committing what any lawyer worth his salt would have called an act of terror. We got off easy". Tony pinched the machine's neck between his index finger thumb, slowly analyzing the mechanisms that made up the device's joint. This thing was practically Victorian! A simple ball joint and spring? How could they expect a man like him to work under these conditions! This was worse than getting his first restraining order...
"The real punishment here is having to use this primitive hunk of crap. Honestly... I was building this sort of trash when I was 9...Maybe I could at least grab a decent cup of coffee before I throw myself into the fucking pier..."

And so, Tony made his way off towards the Delfino Cafe, passing Ritsuka along the way

"C'mon kid...might as well get this over and done with..."

@Yun Lee @Minerva

❝ I want to go to the cafe with you too, Shantae! Uu! ❞ Maria figured a small trip to the cafe wouldn't be a problem. Maybe set up a mini tea party there before doing the work that's been placed onto them.

@Yun Lee @thatguyinthestore @Minerva @cafecrew​

After thinking for a moment, Shantae looked up and at the group. "I'm gonna go to the cafe." The half-genie stated before doing just that. Really, Shantae could really just use a nice cup of coffee right about now.

As Yumeko rounded a corner and escaped out of sight, Risky Boots rolled her head and came to meet Shantae's pointed look, not appearing at all fazed by it. At least, no more fazed than she was by everything else.

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"Now what did I say before the trial? Hm?" Risky grumbled, and easily kept up with Shantae while she swaggered to the café alongside her, "Well...the deck is stacked against us now more than ever, but I'm not about to keel over and accept it; not until I dance the hempen jig," she continued on a bleaker note, "And assuming you're the same Shantae I've always known, it looks like we'll be working together again," Risky glanced across to see Maria run up and join them, and her normal grin returned. "Along with some...new additions,"

@Yun Lee @thatguyinthestore @Gummi Bunnies @Cromartie Sarkissian @Minerva @Klutzy Ninja Kitty @Khan of the Mardu​

Ritsuka smiled at everyone else as they came to the shop. "Whassup?" She asked as they came up. "You all just needed a cup of coffee too, huh?" She asked