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kuramirocket · 2 months

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Anti Magic AU

Okay, so for months I have had this idea running through my head and I have finally finished writing the first part of this au which in part has been inspired by talking with other fans. It's not written like a fanfiction exactly, more like bulletin points of ideas happening within this au, if that makes sense.

Please note that this is supposed to be a mariocest au! So, keep that in mind.

With that said here is the ideas for my Anti Magic au:

Magic is looked down and frowned upon in the Mushroom Kingdom. The only exception being power ups because these items occur and pop up naturally in the wild. It is viewed as being acceptable to use them in times of battle, but only in battle. However, even then those who are exceptional in their usage may get a bit of side eye glance or whispers about them because it's unnatural for a person to be so talented in their usage. As a result strict laws exist in their usage and cultivation.

Despite being the hero of the Mushroom Kingdom and being very well liked, some hushed underground whispers by some Toads may follow Mario behind his back about how is it possible a human not native to their world has such good control and grasp of these powers. The same scrutiny may follow Luigi, but not as intensely in this particular area as Mario, seeing as Mario is the one who has gone on the most ‘adventures.’

Due to Bowser and Koopas such as the Fire Bros ability to use fire, one of the magical abilities most looked down upon with distrust is wielding fire. And wouldn't you know it, the power up Mario most exceeds at is using the Fire Flower.

Another thing to note, one of the reasons magic is looked down upon with harsh laws surrounding its usage is also due to the animosity between the Mushroom Kingdom and the Darklands. As mentioned Bowser's ability to shoot fire from his mouth and his top ranking council of magikoopas being prime examples of the distrust of magic.

While some light magic may be acceptable such as the laws and rules that keep the universe in tact and in balance, again, unless a person is from the Star Realm (e.g. Rosalina, Star species, etc.) or a higher otherworldly authority, every kind of magic is forbidden from being used unless necessary in combat to defend the Mushroom Kingdom. And even then the only real acceptable magic to be used in these scenarios are power ups. A person who has natural magical abilities are discouraged from ever using their abilities due to magic's tricky, powerful and ever fluctuating state.

In terms of Princess Peach, while she wields some faint light and healing magic it is faint and strong enough to counter Bowser's dark magic as they are polar opposites. The Royal family line is expected to wield just enough magic to guarantee their lineage's survival and for the good of the Mushroom Kingdom as if Peach were to fall the MK could fall into havoc and disarray. As such, law decrees that the Royal family may only use their light healing magic on themselves for their own survival. The use of light and healing magic outside of this is forbidden no matter the circumstances. The safety of head of state and the royal family is top priority above all else. Because of this Peach is often counseled to stay behind where she will be safe when an attack or invasion occurs. This is why soldiers exist to to be on the front lines (Mario in particular and to an extent Luigi having unintentionally taken this role). If all else should fail, then the ruler will have no choice, but to fight and be the last line of defense.

Despite being a good fighter, caring about the safety of her people and their well being, Peach does not like having to sit back while others fight to protect her and her kingdom. But due to the council and laws of the Mushroom Kingdom being strict, unyielding and having more traditional ideaologies, she has no choice, but to head the words of her council. Despite being the ruler of the MK, Peach's words are not law and much must be debated and discussed between the royal council and herself. Thus, the council does have a lot of power and political influence.

After the events of Luigi's Mansion, both Luigi and Mario want to plant a garden of fire flowers. Luigi because he likes gardening and finds the task relaxing. Luigi has always found pleasure in the up keeping of the house, especially in times when Mario is away. It's his way of helping. In Mario's case, he finds the idea of a Fire Flower garden appealing because not only will it be beautiful, cared for his baby brother, but because this means having quick access to the power up he is most skillful at using. Mario has found he has a great affinity to fire.

After his experience at the hands of King Boo, part of the reason Mario wants the garden is to feel safer. Luigi shares the same sentiments in wanting to feel more secure. Boos and ghosts cannot be physically fought and defeated, thus, they make for a challenging foe even for a skilled fighter like Mario. Fire flowers, while they cannot really damage Boos, they can stop them for a bit. It's not much, but it's something. A Super Star, light and the poltergust are the only real things that can stop Boos and ghosts.

Unfortunately, word quickly gets around until it reaches the ears at the Castle. Royal Toad guards arrive at the bros home and they ask the brothers to accompany them back to the castle as Toad neighbors watch in hushed whispers. Luigi quickly and bravely steps up asking if this is necessary right now seeing as Mario is still recuperating from the ordeal he suffered with King Boo, however, the guards quickly state both of their presence is required without delay. No exceptions. Resting a hand on his bro's shoulder Mario reassures Luigi he is feeling fine for a simple trip to the castle. As the brothers pass by them, 2 guards flanking them in front and behind them, they can hear the Toads whisper how it's odd for someone like Mario to be so fond of fire, especially fire magic. And even how Luigi does not seem bothered by the flowers heat and magical properties as those who even just get close to the flowers feel the sting of the simple heat emanating from the flowers. Those who use the fire flower have found it taxing on the body, though the adrenaline from combat may help to wield it somewhat, the heat from the power eventually becomes too much and a person is normally only able to be use the power for short periods of time before it takes its toll.

All the while, as the bros are walked through Toad Town up to the walls of the Princess’ castle, they can't help but feel as if they were being marched in a sort of show of exhibition - this is what happens when you do something you should not. Mario and Luigi can only silently look at each other as they feel an uncomfortable tension in the air, Toad eyes all around them with even more whispers as the MK's heroes are escorted, for what and why they aren't sure, but presumably for an audience with Peach. Seeing Luigi wriggling his hands together in anxiety and his own hands balled up in fists, Mario reaches his hand out for his baby brother at his side to take. Clasping their hands together, both brothers smile warmly at each other, hands entertwined as the whispers continue more intensely as ever.

Upon arriving at the Castle, the brothers are greeted with the sight of Princess Peach sitting on her throne, high atop the stairs. At the bottom, her royal council are seated along a semi long table. The guards that had escorted the bros excuse themselves, shutting the castle doors behind them, the echo of the door closing, sounding like a loud bang as the noise reverberated the high walls and ceiling around them.

“Hello, Mario, Luigi.” Peach states, “Thank you for coming on short notice and I apologize for the inconvenience. I know Mario is still recovering from King Boo's failed revenge” states the princess cordially, nodding at Mario. Mario simply shrugs, stating it was no big deal, even though he can't help, but think neither he or Luigi really weren't given much choice. Peach quickly explains the reason they were summoned - the fire flower garden is not allowed. Luigi quickly steps forward surprised, asking why. He afterall, like Mario really enjoyed creating and tending to it. She apologizes, saying the entire garden must be destroyed. The Mushroom Kingdom has strict laws on the use of magic and power ups, she explains. Once more Peach apologizes, seeing the expression on their faces, but it is law.

At this point, one of the council members, an older Toad, a strict expression and frown on his face, states if the brothers are to live in the Mushroom Kingdom, despite their past deeds and heroics they must adhere to the kingdoms laws and learn them. Ignorance and failure to comply will not be tolerated. Luigi quickly steps forward saying they were unaware and didn't mean to cause trouble.

Seeing the way the brothers have their fingers tightly clasped together since their arrival; Adding on, the older Toad states that other laws in particular the bros should be aware of is anti incest laws. (Such relationships are heavily frowned upon, equally as taboo and illegal as back in Mario and Luigi's old home in Brooklyn). Upon, hearing this, Mario and Luigi quickly release their hands, not being able to help blushes of embarrassment darkening their faces. All Luigi can do is nervously nod, while Mario resists the urge to ball his fists in anger. Were they not even allowed any semblance of physical affection either? Mario and Luigi had always comforted each other through soft and gentle physical touches - hugs, holding hands, kisses to the cheek and temple, and most of all forehead touches.

Walking down from her throne, Peach puts a hand on both bros shoulders, much to the chargin of the council, saying that what happened is okay and not their fault. She should have explained all this to them from the start when they decided to move here from Brooklyn. Despite her kind words and reassuring smile, another council member speaks up reminding the brothers once again, that regardless, ignorance and failure to comply won't be tolerated. No one is exempt. It would do well to remember that. Bowing quickly, Luigi apologizes again and says they will remove the fire flower garden immediately. Mario stays silent all throughout, trying to keep his emotions in check. It was quite clear the position they were in as he looked straight at the strict and firm faces of the royal Toad council.

With that, Peach states this was all that needed to be discussed and walks the boys to the front doors, one hand on each of the brothers back, once more apologizing to them they had to come all the way to the castle for such an uncomfortable reason. Luigi smiles and tells her not to worry about it. He and Mario know she was unhappy with the situation as well, as another apologetic and sympathetic look crosses her face. The three say their farewells.

Once back inside the castle walls, the Toad council berate the princess for being so familiar with the two plumbers. Regardless, as their unofficial status as soldiers, she is a princess and customs must be followed. Next time, Mario and Luigi will be also be expected to learn and follow etiquette guidelines when meeting with and addressing the princess. Furthermore, the discussion of their roles in defending the MK need to be discussed and officially decided upon if they are to be so close to royal affairs. Peach can only inwardly sigh and shake her head at the strict regulations. She likes and trusted the brothers after everything that has happened since their sudden appearance in their world.

All throughout walking back to their small home, both Mario and Luigi are silent. Each processing what they were told at the summons.

With everything that has happened since their arrival in the MK it feels like the brothers had hardly time to rest. They are still getting comfortable with their names and faces being known throughout the kingdom. It seems wherever they go, looks and whispers abound ever since both accidently fell through and became seperated via the green pipe that connected this world to their old home in Brooklyn. Furthermore, after Luigi's capture by Bowser and Mario's quest to find and save him and Bowser's subsequent defeat by them using the Superstar, it wasn't long before another skirmish with the Darklands’ king and new enemies (the Boos) occurred.

Luigi can't help, but worriedly glance at his brother, who has yet to utter a single word, eyebrows narrowed. His brother tended to become silent when stressed, angered or overwhelmed. He wanted so much to hold his hand again, but refrained from doing so, the council's words still echoing in his mind, another blush threatening to cross his face. The thought of he and his big brother being something more… It was a ridiculous notion. Sure, they had always been close, even closer still after all that had happened living in the MK. And Luigi couldn't imagine not having his big brother by his side. Still, them together like that it was impossible, yet his traitorous heart beat faster at the thought.

Finally, arriving at the privacy of their home, Luigi quietly asks, ‘Mario are you okay?’ Mario who had been facing away from Luigi quickly turns, surprising Luigi with a sudden fierce hug. It only takes a second for the surprise to fade and Luigi instantly relaxes, nuzzling his face into the crook of Mario's neck, rubbing his hands up and down Mario's back in a comforting gesture.

“I don't care what those Council members said. They're not going to stop me from showing my love to you like I always have.” Heart dangerously racing once more at his big brother's words, Luigi tightens his grip on Mario. “But we'll get in trouble,” whispers Luigi. Gently pushing Luigi back to look him in the eye, hands on his shoulders, Mario speaks, “We're not doing anything wrong. We've always comforted each other this way. So, why should we stop because of some stuffy Toads and laws?” Now, moving his hands to gently rest on his brothers cheeks, Mario just as gently guides Luigi's head to his, foreheads touching, never taking his blue eyes off his baby brother's same colored eyes. “Being affectionate isn't illegal.” Luigi can't help but close his eyes and nuzzle a cheek to his brother's strong, but always so gentle and warm hands, a sigh of content at the physical contact and the pleasant warmth it always spreads throughout his being.

Opening his eyes again, Luigi can't help but want to be even closer with his brother, fully aware and conscious of how close their faces are, each word his brother had spoken, he could feel the warmth of his breaths over his own lips. However, pushing those feelings down and wishing he could stay like this for a while longer, the single focus of his big brother's loving gaze, Luigi addresses the problem at hand. “I think we still need to get rid of the fire flower garden.” With a click of his tongue, Mario finally releases his brothers face and turns around sighing. “You're right. It seems we can't avoid that,” states the older twin, running one hand through his hair.

“I'm sorry, big brother. I really wanted to do something nice for you.” Quickly turning back around, Mario grabs Luigi's hands into his own. “I know and it isn't your fault.” Both of them had really thought that the idea Luigi had come up with for a fire flower garden, a beautiful sight of this world's natural wonder and emergency supply of power ups, had been a great idea. Thinking about how it was supposed to be cared for by him and not just to bring both of them a sense of security, but especially as a way to bring his big brother comfort after his capture at the hands of King Boo, Luigi's fingers squeeze Mario's hands in another show of apology and comfort. Mario can only smile sadly. The garden Luigi had tended to really was beautiful. Almost as beautiful as the field of wild fire flowers he witnessed when he had desperately sought to rescue the person he loved the most.

Despite the bros feeling a bit down trodden at the unexpected turn of events, they know there is no other choice, but to dismantle the garden. Luigi reassures Mario to rest and that he'll be the one to get rid of the Fire Flowers. “Are you sure?” Asks the other in a quiet tone. Nodding, Luigi simply states he wants his big brother to relax and rest. Mario needs to recuperate his strength after the traumatic experience of being trapped within a frame. Not to mention being the target yet again by powerful enemies who would love nothing more than to see them both, especially Mario, out of the way. Luigi will be okay with this task. With one last look into his twin's eyes, Mario places a soft kiss to his forehead, before retiring to their shared room.

Thus, knees down in the dirt, Luigi starts to rip out each fire flower from the ground, the heat they emit, even from the stems, engulfing his hands, yet never stinging or uncomfortably hot. As the green plumber places each one in a bucket of cool water he had brought and placed next to him to sadly extinguish their bright glow and power; Luigi is all too aware of the neighbor Toads eyes on him the entire time. Their whispers back, reaching his ears.

“It seems even the kingdom's hero got lectured for planting those fire flowers.”

“Yeah, didn't they know it's not permitted?”

“It's odd both don't seem bothered or even suffer small blisters from being in contact with the flowers so much. It's not natural.”

“For being a coward, the younger brother doesn't seem to have any trepidation of using power ups either. I heard, both brothers found the prospect wielding their powers exciting.”

“Magic shouldn't come so easily. Even the royal family must practice and train from a young age to get a good grasp on its control.”

“An affinity for magic is a dangerous thing. I heard the younger brother like the older has his own affinities, but they seem more… problematic.”

With all these words, Luigi only sighs, now knowing why the neighbors had looked shocked to see him and Mario daring to cultivate these power ups. How could it be that in a lush world brimming with wondrous magic that people could only dream about back in their old world, could be talked about in such a hushed and taboo way?

With unease filling him, Luigi holds one fire flower close to his heart, part of him longing to at least be able to preserve one in secret and present it to his brother as a gift. It's what he had wanted with the garden after all - to console, to reassure, to show his love for his precious brother. The person he cared for most in the world, who deserved everything and more. But with eyes and whispers following them still, even now, Luigi knows it's a futile attempt. Word could reach back to the palace just like however it had already. It seems gestures of security and love through a simple garden would not be granted even to the supposed hailed heroes of the Mushroom Kingdoom.

So, with this au. The timeline of events up to this point are as follows:

- The Super Mario Bros Movie

- Another battle with Bowser soon following after the events of the movie.

- Mario has some skirmishes with the Boos resulting in King Boo wanting revenge on him.

- Luigi's Mansion.

- Mario and Luigi being summoned by the council and whispers of Toads throughout all this despite their heroics because of their apt usage in power ups.

I definitley, do have more ideas and do want to add a few other games following this timeline of events. Though, I need to polish these ideas and add more details.

I just really wanted to explore the potential of political drama, mistrust and fear of magic even with regards to the heroes, in this case Mario and Luigi. Plus we need more mariocest ;D Again the potential of drama and angst are too good.

Hope you guys liked this! Let me know what you think! :)

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