The 'Shroom:Issue 225/Curse of the Lich Yard
Curse of the Lich Yard
Written by: Boo1268
Some time ago, last October in fact, a slew of ghosts had invaded The 'Shroom, all led by a powerful being known as Krad, the Spirit of Darkness, who had possessed Boo1268. At first, many were unsure of how The 'Shroom returned to its normal state after this event, so now, let us tell you the story of what happened that very day in Issue 223.
As The 'Shroom rumbled with the power of an earthquake, the clouds darkened in the sky, forming a humongous thunder cloud, and the day turned to night. ClawgripFan9001 was the first to notice the sudden changes, being down by the docks setting up his boat while eating a bag of Swedish Fish. He looked up into the sky and saw the dark clouds and spirits swirling around the now-moonlit sky.
Clawgrip: Yar, what in the name o’ Edward Teach’s six foot length beard be goin’ on up there?
Strangely, the water next to Clawgrip's vessel began to bubble and gurgle. As Clawgrip scuttled over to investigate, he saw a seaweed-covered skeletal hand emerge from the water, then another, and another, until the Boney Buccaneers of days past began to crawl up the side of the ship and onto the deck.
Clawgrip: Curse me cutlasses! The crew o’ The Flyin’ Dutchman be risin’ from their grave!
Just then, the undead skeletal pirates all jumped onto the deck of the ship, all being led by the now zombified Captain Clamper the Durapurl, who happened to be a fellow pirate that attempted to take his gold long ago.
Clamper: Ah, seems I be back from the depths where ye sent me, eh Clawgrip? Now I be needin' a replacement shell, and yours looks like the PERFECT fit for me to squeeze in, ey bilge rat?
Clawgrip: Argh, if it ain’t Cap’n Clamper! Thought I taught ye the Davy Jones’ Locker combination a lifetime ago! Well, ye ain’t never gettin’ yer grubby mittens on me crustacean hide!
Clamper: Well TOO BAD ye scurvy dog! I'll kill ye then I'll have ye hide! AND ye loot! HARHARHAR! GET 'EM, YOU BONEY BRUTES!
SUDDENLY, as quick as they could, Clawgrip was attacked by the skeletal pirates. With a few swings of his cutlass and a snap of his claw, he CUT the skeletons down to size and even pushed some back into that water below. Then Clawgrip turned his attention to Clamper. Clamper pulled out his short sword and attacked with fierce abandon, then taking a step back fired some pearls at him, but Clawgrip grabbed one and threw it back, cracking Clamper's shell even more. Suddenly, Clamper got close to Clawgrip and SLAMMED his shell shut on one of Clawgrip's arms!
Clawgrip: ARGH, THE PAINUVITALL!
The Sidestepper then began pounding on the undead Durapurl's head to get him to let go of his arm, before using his cutlass to PRY the clam open with much success. He then JABBED the cutlass into Clamper, breaking his shell.
Clamper: GAH! CURSES, BEATEN AGAIN!
Clamper then fell overboard and began to sink quickly due to his holes.
Clamper: I'll be BACK you scurvy dog! JUST YOU WAI- *blub* *blub* *blub*
Clawgrip: Yar, I don't think ye'll be back from that skewerin’, ye shellfish seafarer!
With that undead pirate scuffle taken care of, ClawgripFan9001 promptly tucked his cutlass away again before trying to make sense of everything that just happened.
Clawgrip: Nargh, where in the seven seas did that all just come from…?
As the day darkened, many individuals in the city began to panic at the sight of this spiritual menace. But blissfully unaware of what was happening was Hooded Pitohui, who was at the library looking over lots of books regarding Pokémon stats and writing them down while doing so.
Hooded: Who would've thought Clamperl held so much potential on paper? To think it could surpass a Legendary Pokémon in ideal conditions! Oh, what delightful trivia! Its practical use may be limited, but this will make for an excellent trivia point to break the ice.
Mysteriously, the books Hooded was reading began to float in midair, and all the scattered papers around started swirling. As he heard distant whispers, Hooded began to freak out a bit.
Hooded: M-My word! What is this all about? Is someone pulling a practical joke? W-Where are you? Reveal yourselves, please!
???: Hey boys, it looks like the NERD wants us to show ourselves!
???: Well then, let's show ourselves!
A group of two Hiders and one Oozer revealed themselves in front of Hooded, looking at him with a sinister glare while smirking.
Hider 1: Hey buddy, looks like you like to hit the books a lot, huh?
Oozer: Yeah, sure it looks like it.
Hider 2: Well then, maybe he’ll appreciate it if we THREW THE BOOK AT HIM!
All of a sudden, Hooded was pelted by books left and right - comic, normal, hardcover, even those BIG dictionary books too!
Hooded: My goodness! Specters! And specimen from the Evershade Valley, no less! I wonder what brings them so f-OW! Ough! Hold! Cease!
His ramblings interrupted by books pelting him, he cowered, throwing his hands up in a weak defense. An encyclopedia managed to dislodge his glasses, the cornered Toady finally rising up into the air to try and reach a more advantageous position.
Hider 1: GET 'EM BOYS, DON'T LET HIM FLY AWAY!
As Hooded attempted to flee from the ghosts, grabbing the Eject Button off the desk he had been working at, he found it fairly difficult due to the library's cramped flying space. When you can't phase through walls, it's hard to not bump into things. Hooded then made his way into a closet and found a mini vacuum. Now he was armed and ready. As he emerged from the closet, the three ghosts, having surrounded it after he went in, were confused by the mini vacuum.
Hider 1: What the heck is that thing?
Oozer: Ain't nothing I've ever seen, and I lived in a hotel once!
Hooded: This, my gentle specters, is a modified and miniaturized variant of a Poltergust device! I think you will agree, our library system is quite well-stocked for emergencies, no?
Without hesitation, Hooded flicked a switch on the vacuum, setting the device to a full-powered section and aiming it at the spirits. One by one, the ghosts got sucked into the vacuum, each screaming in terror while doing so. As the final ghost was being sucked up, he attempted to resist the pull, shouting “THIS SUCKS!” before being fully sucked into the vacuum.
Hooded: Ah, well-funded public institutions, I am forever indebted to you.
Hooded let out a sigh of relief as the last specter disappeared into the vacuum, finally glancing through a window and seeing the darkened skies outside. Having time to think, he engaged in some aerial pacing, muttering to himself.
Hooded: Hm, how peculiar that these specters would appear so far outside of Evershade Valley at the same time the skies darken. I suspect more than a coincidence… Ohh, I must reach Waluigi Time and see what info is being collected at HQ. I fear there's urgent research to do!
Now vacuum in hand, Hooded flew off towards The 'Shroom HQ to figure out the origins of this paranormal activity.
Speaking of The 'Shroom HQ, Sparks and WT were panicking at what just happened regarding Boo1268's possession and how they might have accidentally Released an ancient evil buried from long ago.
Sparks: Oh dear! There are lots of ghosts roaming about, and I’m one who gets scared easily!
WT: It could be worse, there could be twice as many ghosts as there are right now! See, you always have to remember to look on the bright side of things, Sparks.
WT would quickly eat his words. As they stepped out of the basement and into the server room, they saw a Gobber getting goo and slime all over the main servers, as other small spirits caused mayhem and mischief.
WT: ...Well, you know, there could still be more slime. That’s the power of positive thinking.
Unfortunately, WT's wishes would NOT be met, as the ghostly slime mixed with the wires and electrical equipment, suddenly spawning an electrical spirit with long wire fingers.
WT: Now here’s another important lesson, the power of positive thinking actually kind of sucks!
Sparks: Yikes. Things are much worse than they usually are!
Sinisterly, the electro ghost turned towards WT and Sparks, grinning even MORE than before, reaching out his wire fingers at our heroes to give them a controlled shock as he charged at them cackling!
WT: I don’t know about you, but I think maybe we should just get out of here.
Sparks: That’s a great idea. RUN!
As WT and Sparks run away from the electro ghost, they saw all their other colleagues being attacked by the malicious spirits - Goldoo getting swarmed by Mini Goobs, Shoey getting stomped by a Smasher, and Kroop getting played with like a ball between two Gold Ghosts while Pyro acted as the ref for their game. OH, THE HORROR! Thankfully, Sparks and WT made their way to a coffee shop away from the main 'Shroom building. Now in the safety of caffeinated arms, they began to recount what had just transpired.
Sparks: Oh man oh man oh man! It’s total chaos out there with all the ghosts having the time of their lives. How are we gonna fix this?
WT: Gee, if only we had someone around who knew how to deal with ghosts. Like a paranormal researcher of some sort.
Immediately, emerging from the bathroom is Professor E. Gadd, having come to the coffee shop to get a cup of joe, and also to clear out the spicy Beanbean Kingdom burritos he had eaten earlier.
E. Gadd: *WHEW* That was INTENSE! That was almost as bad as getting trapped in that painting at The Last Resort! Well, almost….
Then, E. Gadd turned towards our two heroes and stared at them confused.
E. Gadd: Ah, hello there… Might I ask, what are you two doing on the floor?
WT: It’s a pretty long story… And we can’t even get back into the office to write any News Flushes about it! It’s like my worst nightmare!
Sparks: Quite an exciting story too! Is there any way you can help us stop this?
E. Gadd: Stop wha-
Curiously, E. Gadd looked out the window and almost FAINTED from disbelief! As he staggered to get back up, he spoke again.
E. Gadd: Tell me EVERYTHING!
Meanwhile on the other side of town, Clawgrip had been investigating the strange clouds himself, all the while defending against any ghost or undead that would come his way. As he ventured through the streets of the city, he saw the source of the chaos - the appearance of a large structure on top of The 'Shroom HQ. And while it was hard to make out what it actually IS, what COULD be seen is that it's the cause of all this chaos.
Clawgrip: Yar, I don't think that gigantic thing were on top o’ Shroom HQ yesterday… I'm guessin’ that be where all this paranormal gobbledygook be comin’ from, then…
As Clawgrip stared at the large structure, he suddenly saw Hooded Pitohui flying by, looking around to make sure no ghosts were nearby. While he looked around, he spotted Clawgrip as well. The two joined up, discussing the strange events that were occurring.
Clawgrip: Ahoy there, Pitohui! Fancy runnin’ into ye t'night, an’ glad ta see ye be safe an’ sound with all o’ these spooky shenanigans goin’ on at the moment! No time fer formalities though, so I was ‘opin’ ye be ‘avin’ more of an idea what's goin’ on than I do, an’ ‘ow that huge contraption got on top o’ our building?
Hooded: Ah, hello to you as well, Clawgrip. It's a relief to see you in one piece - though I shouldn't nurse any doubt as capable a buccaneer as yourself could tend to your own defense, haha! Ah, what am I saying? This is no time for niceties! *Ahem* As concerns that strange monolith atop the building, I'm not certain precisely how it came to be erected, but I would speculate it's the source of these specters!
Clawgrip: Aye, that do be makin’ the most sense with what little we know right now. Me thinks we should try an’ send those ghosts back ta whate'er ethereal plane they came from, an’ seein’ as Boo1268 be one o’ our top knowledgeables in the way o’ paranormal activity, we could try an’ ask the lad fer ‘elp?
Hooded: Clawgrip, why, that's a splendid idea! Oh yes, if anyone in the vicinity would have the familiarity with paranormal magicks to find a solution, it would be him!
Hooded: …have you any idea where he is? Perhaps he's at the HQ writing? Or in his personal study?
Clawgrip: Nar, I dunno where the lad be, so perhaps we should try an’ check out if he be at ‘is paranormal pad, the Lich Yard?
Hooded: Drat! Oh well, it can't be helped. Although perhaps we should exchange numbers to… Ack, nevermind that tangent! The Lich Yard is our best hope. I say we make haste and see if we can't find him!
Abruptly, slime began to bubble up from a sewer grate in the street before reshaping and reforming into the Blimp Reaper. With two Gold Ghosts beside him, he looked towards our heroes, his mouth watering with slime.
Blimp: AHHH, fresh crab, my FAVORITE! Now THIS will be a dish to DIE FOR! Get them!
Viciously, the Gold Ghosts attacked our heroes. Thankfully, with vacuum in hand, Hooded sucked up one with ease, while Clawgrip dueled the other to little success.
Clawgrip: Argh, it sure would be convenient if these spectral scoundrels were solid an’ physical like ye an’ me so it'd be easier ta beat ‘em in a battle.
Hooded: That certainly would be a boon, wouldn't it? A shame that we have no Noctowl handy. Foresight would do the trick handily. Hmm, but there must be other methods, no? A flash of light was known to stun ghosts, if I recall correctly.
Clawgrip thought for a moment while fighting and came up with an idea. Noticing a lamp nearby, Clawgrip tilted his cutlass so the light shined onto the Gold Ghost's face, stunning them for a brief moment.
Clawgrip: Quick, Pitohui! Get that dastardly deadite while ‘e be outta it!
Hooded: O-Oh, bravo Clawgrip! Y-Yes, here goes!
Hurriedly fiddling with the vacuum, Hooded turned on the suction and pointed it towards the stunned ghost, capturing it in the stream and sucking it up with ease.
Blimp: NOOO, MY MINIONS! That's it, I'm gonna steam fry you BOTH!
As the Blimp Reaper attacked our heroes, Clawgrip parried slimeball attacks fired from him. Meanwhile, Hooded attempted to suck up the Reaper, but to little success due to his girth - but also the fact that since this isn't an E. Gadd-made vacuum, it won't hold him.
Hooded: Hrrm… It appears this model is insufficient for such a large specimen… Oh, if only I had thought to tuck a Soulstone in my pocket today…
Blimp: Who are you calling LARGE, pipsqueak!
Suddenly, Blimp knocked Hooded back with his belly, Hooded landing in Clawgrip's arms.
Blimp: HAHAHAHA! YOU CAN'T BEAT M-
SUDDENLY, the Spirit Striker SLASHED through the Blimp Reaper, cutting him in half and causing him to disintegrate in a puff of smoke while screaming in pain. After Blimp disappeared, Specture Striker stood scythe in hand and looked at them with a mix of worry and concern.
Specture: Hey, you guys okay? That jerk didn't do too much damage, did he?
At Specture's prompting, Hooded rose from Clawgrip's claws, a bit woozy but unharmed overall.
Hooded: I'll say that the ruffian had us in an unenviable position, but for your intervention, we've made it through unscathed. You've my gratitude, Specture.
Clawgrip: Aye, same ‘ere, lad. Thanks a bundle fer savin’ us in the nick o’ time. Now that we've gained some breathin’ space fer the time bein’, do ye be ‘avin’ any idea what in the name o’ Mark Twain's rugged riverboat be ‘appenin’, with all o’ these malicious spirits goin' ‘round town an’ causin’ a ruckus?
Specture: I don't know. One moment I'm taking care of the Lich Yard, the second all these ghosts start causing mayhem and leaving the Lich Yard unannounced! I followed them here and stopped a few of them from causing more trouble.
Hooded: So you've no idea, either? Then… should we take it you don't know Boo1268's current whereabouts?
Specture: Last I recall he was at The 'Shroom. He said he "felt a strange presence” and he went to investigate with WT and Sparks.
Hooded: The HQ, eh? Fortuitously, I was heading in that direction before I encountered Clawgrip. We should be able to reach it in short order… assuming that we don't encounter any other spirits as powerful as that one. Specture, this tool can only do so much. Would you be able to accompany us to the HQ, or, failing that, do you have any wards or weapons we might use to reach it safely?
Specture: Unfortunately no, but I can join you guys so I can protect you. Trust me, most of the time these ghosts fear ME, and those that don't regret it later.
Hooded: Excellent, then! Let's make haste for the HQ! There's not a moment to waste!
Clawgrip: Alrighty, then! Let's get goin’, ol’ chum!
As Clawgrip, Hooded, and Specture made their way towards The 'Shroom HQ, they were uncertain as to what they would find when they arrived.
Meanwhile back at the coffee shop, after explaining everything to E. Gadd, our heroes came up with a plan of action.
E. Gadd: Well, it's very clear to me that the source of this problem is this Krad fellow, seeing as how he's causing a huge heap of trouble for everyone.
WT: I mean, yeah, we kind of figured that part out already. You got any genius plans to stop him, though?
E. Gadd: Well, thankfully I've dealt with enough paranormal occurrences to know how to deal with a foe such as this, and on the bright side, this also means we can test out a brand new invention that I've been working on! And what better way than to stop an evil spirit made of darkness, eh?
With a quick turn, E. Gadd pulled out of his briefcase four strange robotic packs with all sorts of mechanical equipment on them. They had a strange hose-like attachment to them and looked slightly different than a Poltergust.
Sparks: Whoa… are these things the solution to stopping the ghosts?
E. Gadd: More or less, yes. I call them the Scarepack 2000s! Instead of sucking up ghosts with a plain old vacuum, these babies fire beams of HOT PLASMA, which is similar to ectoplasm, allowing you to capture the ghost in a stream and direct them to your chamber, which is now a tube you can switch to so you can suck them up, making ghost wrangling a BREEZE!
WT: Hm, that gives me a new product idea…
Sparks: Sweet!
E. Gadd: With THESE babies by your side, you won't have a problem dealing with those pesky ghosts!
WT: Now we can take on that sinister spirit! If he thinks he can ruin the paper, he’s got another thing coming.
Sparks: One question: why are there four?
E. Gadd: Well, in my line of work sonny, you can NEVER be too careful! Now I'll use my portable VB to see where you fellers need to go. Hmmm, looks like there is some sort of coliseum atop The 'Shroom! And it's just BRIMMING with paranormal energy! I do believe THAT'S where you need to go! So you two better leave now, POSTHASTE!
As our heroes suited up and began to leave the coffee shop, E. Gadd stopped them for a moment, handing the two other Scarepacks to them.
E. Gadd: Here, while you're out there, take these. You may never know when you might need a hand.
Sparks carried the two packs as our heroes headed off towards The 'Shroom HQ, ready to stop whatever was causing this madness.
WT: Feels like we’re trying a little too hard to get around copyright here.
Sparks: Yeah… but let’s focus on the task at hand!
Meanwhile, Clawgrip, Specture, and Hooded were all making their way towards The 'Shroom HQ, dodging and battling ghosts and ghouls alike, but slowly they were beginning to dwindle their resources, with Hooded's vacuum slowly but surely being more and more damaged and almost full, barely able to handle another ghost.
Hooded: This is becoming quite the predicament. If these attacks continue apace, we stand no chance of arriving at the HQ.
Clawgrip: Yar, I enjoy a good scuffle as much as the next pirate. But this is startin’ ta not only drain me patience, but me stamina as well, I say.
Specture: Tell me about it. I've NEVER seen this many violent ghosts before! Whatever's going on at The 'Shroom right now must be BAD!
Just then, off in the distance, Hooded and the others heard a few strange sounds, one that sounded like a zapping sound and another that sounded like explosions? As our heroes went to investigate the noise, they were suddenly attacked by the Bomb Brothers.
BB1: Well, well, well, look what we got here, a couple of FLESH BAGS!
BB2: And even a BONE BAG TOO! HAHAHAH! The master is gonna ENJOY bringing these chumps to the show!
Clawgrip: Argh, what show do ye explosive evildoers be talkin’ ‘bout?
BB1: Why, only the SHOW OF AN AFTERLIFETIME! Sights, sounds, SCREAMS! Our Lich Lord is gonna be happy we brought YOU along to see it!
Specture took a moment to pause before speaking.
Specture: Well sorry friends, we're not going anywhere. So MOVE, or I'll move you.
BB2: A lot of tough words coming from a flimsy bag of bones, but alright then. WE’LL TAKE YOU ON THAT OFFER!
Immediately, a BOMB was thrown, BLASTING SPECTURE and leaving him dazed on the floor. He looked like he was out of commission for now. Suddenly, both of the Bomb Brothers turned towards Clawgrip and Hooded with a sinister grin.
Clawgrip: Yar, ye scallywags will both regret hurtin’ me bourgeois buddy's loyal subject like that!
Hooded: Ah, Clawgrip? A moment, please? I'm not so certain challenging their resolve is an advisable course of action. They, ah, are, after all, the ones armed with explosives…
BB1: Your nerdy friend is right, crabpot. We got the bombs and YOU DON'T! So unless you want to end up seafood gumbo, you best come with US!
BB2: And besides, it's not THAT bad. You'll be the guests of honor by having the HONOR of being sacrificed FIRST!
Specture: N-No.....l-leave them....alone.....
Hooded: P-Perhaps we need to consider finding a scrap of paper and get our affairs in order, compatriots?
Clawgrip: Aye, I'm thinkin’ the same thing ‘ere, Pitohui, me boy!
SUDDENLY, in a brilliant flash of energy, two strange beams wrapped around the Bomb Brothers and began pulling them, making them drop their bombs.
BB1: GAH! BRO, WHAT IS THIS?
BB2: I DON'T KNOW BRO! BUT THIS CAN'T BE GOOD!
Sparks: For you two it ain’t! For us? Sure is!
WT: That’s right, no one messes with The ‘Shroom!
Bomb Brothers: OH NO BRO!
Then, with a pull and a tug, the Bomb Brothers were PULLED into the Scarepacks as the heroes celebrate with a well earned high five!
WT: Ghostbusting gang sweep!
Sparks: Looks like it! Are you all alright? They didn’t hurt you too badly did they?
Hooded: Well, our scrapes to this point haven't left us without injury altogether, but we did escape the worst of it as a result of your intervention.
Clawgrip: Yar, we woulda been learnin’ the Davy Jones’ Locker combination if ye laddies ‘adn't come ta save us in the nick o’ time.
Hooded: Unfortunately, properly expressing our gratitude will have to wait. Waluigi Time, Specture believed Boo was with you and Sparks. Do you know his current whereabouts? Is he presently endeavoring to find a solution?
Clawgrip: Aye, what became o’ the jolly ghostly laddie? We coulda really used ‘is ethereal expertise right ‘ere an’ now.
WT: Well, there’s good news, bad news, and worse news. Which one do you want to hear first? Personally, I’d go with the bad news, because then the good news softens the blow before you get to the worse news.
Specture: BOO IS WHAT!?
After a brief conversation with everyone explaining what happened to each other, the revelation had come. Boo1268 was now the Lich Lord, being possessed by Krad the Spirit of Darkness.
Hooded: Ah, dear, Boo himself is being compelled to sow this chaos… The depth of our predicament has increased tremendously.
Clawgrip: Nargh, that sure as hinges ain’t good! We gotta save the lad!
Specture: But how? We have NO idea on how to get a GHOST out of a ghost!
Sparks: I think we might have something that’ll do the trick!
Quickly, Sparks tossed two extra Scarepack 2000s to Hooded and Clawgrip. They took them in hand and strapped them on.
Hooded: What remarkable devices! Why, these appear to far surpass any Poltergust-style device in terms of efficacy in restraining ghosts!
Clawgrip: Yar, I say! Now we got a bigger advantage against that phantomly fiend an’ ‘is Armies o’ Darkness!
WT: Now let’s save the paper! If I miss an issue deadline, Shoey’s never going to let me hear the end of it…
Sparks: And save Boo, of course! Can’t forget about him.
And so, after making sure Specture was alright and having him go home, our heroes made their way towards, The 'Shroom ready for the final battle at hand. As our heroes entered through the basement, they made their way through The 'Shroom, blasting ghosts left and right. As they continued onwards, dealing with Oozers and Twurlers, Slammers and Hammers galore, they began to notice The 'Shroom slowly starting to look more and more like a castle as they traveled through the floors, suddenly noticing the slew of new floors inside.
WT: Someone really had a field day at the Halloween store.
Sparks: The professor told us that Krad was filled with lots of ancient power, so maybe he’s the one behind these bizarre changes too?
Clawgrip: Nar, ain’t that fine an’ dandy? Means more walkin’ fer us to do.
Hooded: Ah, come now. It's a lovely evening, isn't it? Aside from the specters, that is. These crisp autumn nights are excellent for spending a spell out in the fresh air!
Clawgrip: Aye, easy fer ye ta say, Pitohui, me boy. Yer the only one o’ this ‘ole bunch we be makin’ up capable o’ flight. This oughta be a walk in Pinna Park fer ye.
WT: Look on the bright side, it means we get to expand the headquarters without it eating into the budget!
Our heroes continued climbing The 'Shroom tower. The sound of spirits whispering and laughing could be heard, but with no desirable source to their origins. Quickly, the air was filled with the sound of cheering? As our heroes made one FINAL push to the top of the tower, they came across a grand set of double doors with chanting being heard on the other side.
Sparks: Oh man… this seems to be our destination.
WT: And the soundtrack sucks!
Clawgrip: Aye, can't ‘elp wonderin’ what kinda paranormal posse be waitin’ fer us beyond these doors…
Hooded: Indeed, though I'm not certain which is greater - my curiosity or my trepidation…
Just then, Sparks was called on his portable VB by E. Gadd, bearing important news.
E. Gadd: Sparks my boy, are you there? Am I coming in loud and clear?
Sparks: You are! What’s up?
E. Gadd: You fellers better be careful in there! I was able to get back to my portable lab, and the Parascope is detecting a HUGE amount of paranormal energy in your area! Whatever this “Krad” fellow is planning CAN'T be good! Stop this madness before it's too late!
Sparks: Sure thing!
Hooded: The professor, I take it? Why the urgency? Has he detected something?
Sparks: He said that there’s a huge amount of paranormal energy beyond those doors. Prepare yourselves, everyone!
As the heroes entered the arena, they saw Boo1268 just floating there in the middle of the arena, facing away from them. After a few moments of silence, he spoke.
Boo1268: Wonderful, wonderful! You have arrived and the time has come. This SEARING fire inside me, it carries well the ritual's promise.
Clawgrip: Argh, ye gotta resist the grasp that ethereal enemy be ‘oldin’ on ye, Boo1268, me lad! Come to yer senses!
Boo1268: SILENCE! It would do you gentlemen well to cease your stuttering. The fool you know is in here, but he's TRAPPED in a prison of MY making!
Sparks: How could you do this, you monster?
WT: What have you done to him?!
Boo1268: Mmmmh, I can hear him crying out for you all. "WT, Sparks, anybody help!" It fills me with GLEE seeing my victims squirm. HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!
Hooded: Tsk, how dreadfully vile! Still your tongue now! The more you lose that prattle, the more painful your defeat will be! P-Probably… Ah, you agree, yes, Clawgrip?
Clawgrip: Aye, we'll add ya ta The Flyin’ Dutchman's crew when be done with ye!
Boo1268: HAHAHAHA! You foolish mortals think you can stop ME!? Well then, let's get this show started, shall we?
Quickly, all of the Lich Lord's generals appeared, including the electrical ghost WT and Sparks had faced beforehand.
Boo1268: DESTROY THEM, MY LOYAL GENERALS! AND GIVE THE AUDIENCE A SHOW THEY WILL NEVER FORGET!
SUDDENLY, in a spectral display of fear, several of the ghost generals began circling around our heroes before attacking them one on one. As Cackleator and Stats lurked in the background, Jackboolantern chased after poor Hooded, meanwhile Napstablook was forced to fight Clawgrip alongside Peepcasso, while Sparks and WT were forced to face Terror Volt.
Stats: Remember the plan everyone, if we do this right we'll take down those fools for sure! It's my foolproof strategy!
Cackleator: What do you want me to do?
Stats: Calculate our chances of success at winning this battle while I do what I do best! Slink in the shadows…
As Stats slinked into the shadows, Cackleator calculated their chances of success. Meanwhile, Clawgrip fought off Napstablook.
Cackleator: I calculate an 85% chance of success from this battle.
Hooded: Concerning odds for our purposes, but… It's not a guaranteed success for them. Within that fifteen percent, there remains hope we'll prevail!
Clawgrip: Yargh, I say it’s the best chance we got!
Clawgrip, avoiding paint attacks left and right from Peepcasso, came face to face with Napstablook, who seemed embarrassed and on the verge of tears.
Napstablook: O-Oh, hi there.. I-I'm sorry, by the way....
Clawgrip: Yar, sorry what fer, lad?
Napstablook: I-I don't want to hurt you guys, but that big s-scary guy said h-he’ll hurt me if I don't h-hurt you…
Napstablook seemed like he was about to cry, tears swelling up in his face.
Napstablook: So I-I'm sorry, I don't mean to get in your w-way…
Clawgrip: Ah. Well, don’t worry ‘bout it, me boy. I know it ain’t personal, but just business.
Napstablook: O-Oh okay… but now that makes me feel worse since you're so n-nice. I'm… I'm…
As Napstablook started to cry, his acidic tears began raining down on poor Clawgrip. As he dodged left and right, some of the tears singed his hide.
Clawgrip: ARGH! BY NEP-ENUT’S CURLY TOES, THAT HURTS!
Napstablook: I-I'M S-SORRY! I-I D-DON'T MEAN TO, it's just, I-I……
He began to cry even more acidic tears being showered over Clawgrip, burning him left and right. Clawgrip figured he needed a way to calm him down as to stop this acidic rampage, but how?
Clawgrip: Argh, I need ta figure out ‘ow ta get the lad ta stop bein’ all weepy b’fore ‘e goes an’ burns off me entire shell! But ‘ow do I get ‘im ta stop cryin’...?
Being a sea captain, Clawgrip knew how to rally up his crew when the chips are down, so perhaps he could cheer him up by complementing his skills?
Listening to the little voice inside his head, ClawgripFan9001 went and tried to do as it said.
Clawgrip: Aye, ye be a pretty thoughtful an’ considerate ghoul, me boy. Very considerate o’ the good guys despite bein’ forced ta fight ‘em.
Napstablook's tears began to subdue a bit at the complement. But alas, the tears were still flowing, but it was a good start. Suddenly from across the way, Peepcasso noticed what was happening and intervened.
Peepcasso: HEY Napstablookia! How are you going to be-a great at your job-a if you keep complementing the nemico!
Napstablook: S-Sorry, m-my bad…
Clawgrip: Nar, don’t let the other lad get under yer skin, me boy. Ye be pretty good at anythin’ if ye put yer’ ‘eart ta it.
Napstablook perked up a bit more at the complement and actually stopped crying! Success! But alas, Peepcasso intervened.
Peepcasso: NO, NO! Don't stop those tears, they're our only key to winning! Now watch me work!
Suddenly, with a swipe of his paintbrush, Peepcasso splashed waves of colors at Clawgrip, pushing him back while also damaging him and painting him red.
Clawgrip: Argh, watch it, ye artistic antic master! This shell just came fresh outta the washer!
Napstablook, quickly getting a bit of inspiration, told Peepcasso he had an idea! Suddenly, getting tears in his eyes, Napstablook formed his tears into a hat.
Napstablook: W-what do you think? I call it Dapstablook.
Clawgrip: Yar, clever namin’, me boy! Ye could sell tons o’ fancy clothes under that name if ye put yer mind ta it!
Peepcasso: NO, NO, NO, STUPIDO FANTASMA! You're-a meant to FIGHT the shell brain, not spark conversazione! Besides, that hat is, how you say… di cattivo gusto.
Napstablook, looking sad again, held his head down in shame. Meanwhile, Peepcasso attacked Clawgrip once more, this time with a red and blue paint mixture.
Clawgrip: Nargh! Don’t go splatterin’ me like yer Jackson Pollock, dagnabbit!
ClawgripFan9001 barked at Peepcasso before shifting his focus back to Napstablook.
Clawgrip: Don’t listen ta ‘im, boyo! Yer ‘at be as dapper as the dapperest men in the ‘ole wide world!
Napstablook looked up and seemed a bit more happy at that comment, then he floated above him and showered him with strange green tears. Clawgrip, bracing himself for more damage, was instead healed and washed, all the paint being gone.
Peepcasso: NO! MY PAINT-A! How could you do this to me, Napsta!
Napstablook: O-oops, s-sorry. Guess I must have done the wrong attack.
Peepcasso: Well then, stupido! Do another acid-a rain!
Napstablook sighed.
Napstablook: Sorry, I'm not really feeling up to it right now…
Shocked, Peepcasso turned to Clawgrip with a bit of anger.
Peepcasso: Well, looks like I'm going to-a paint you RED!
Suddenly, swinging his brush with furious abandon, Peepcasso swiped and slashed his brush at the crustacean captain.
Clawgrip: Yar, I needed that…
ClawgripFan9001 sighed in relief as he was healed by Napstablook’s green tears. He then proceeded to parry Peepcasso’s brush attacks with his cutlass, which would hopefully be enough to stun the artistic ghoul and capture him with his Poltergust. Suddenly, with one of the parries, he slashed the brush in half, leaving the artist without his tools.
Peepcasso: NO IL MIO PENNELLO!
Seeing his chance to strike, Clawgrip fired up the Scarepack and grappled Peepcasso with a plasma beam, his paint flying and splattering everywhere as he tries to flee. Then suddenly, with one great big PULL, Peepcasso was sucked into the Scarepack. As he was, he cried out “OH MIO DIO” and was captured.
Clawgrip: Yar, I got ‘im!
ClawgripFan9001 displayed his trademark grin while flashing a V-sign towards the readers with his left clawtips. Napstablook then floated up to the captain and apologized again for attacking him.
Clawgrip: Yar, yer forgiven, matey! If ye want, ye can join me an’ the other good guys in the fight against the remainder o’ those bad guys!
Napstablook: T-Thanks, but I'm okay. I'm not much of a fighter anyways, I'm more a musician. B-but! I can still give you some tips to help out! Like for instance, that guy does more damage if he paints you..
Clawgrip: Yar, works perfectly fine fer me, lad! Thanks fer yer ‘elp, an’ ‘opefully I’ll see ye again sometime!
ClawgripFan9001 flashed a grin and a thumbs up at Napstablook before continuing on his merry way to combat the rest of the Spectral Army of Darkness.
Napstablook, as Clawgrip walked away, sheepishly replied “Aye aye, captain”, but by then he was already far gone.
Meanwhile, Hooded Pitohui is having some troubles of his own, weaving left and right and avoiding mini pumpkins being thrown at him from Jackboolantern, all the while flying through a mini maze that Jackboolantern made appear out of nowhere.
Jackboolantern: GAH HA HA NOW YOU HOODED GONNA GET HIT BY GOURD AND THEN I MAKE BOSS PROUD!
Hooded: Keep your wits about you, Hooded. There's no greater danger within a maze than panic. If you wish to see me navigate this maze, I will grant you your wish!
Hooded, dropping below one of the flung pumpkins as it sailed overhead, turned around to watch the mini-pumpkin splatter against the wall. Doubling back, he grabbed the splattered pumpkin innards, smearing them over the maze wall to put a square and mark this portion of the maze with a unique identifier. As Jackboolantern continued to chase Hooded, he quickly became annoyed at how long it was taking him to get out.
Jackboolantern: YOU GO TOO SLOW YOU BETTER HURRY OR ELSE…
Hooded: First you trap me within your maze, and now you demand I hurry myself? For goodness sake, specter, where are your manners?
Jackboolantern: ME HAVE NO MANNERS YOU TALK TOO MUCH ME WANT YOU TO GET TO NEXT VERY SCARY MAZE NOW HURRY UP CAUSE YOUR TAKING TOO LONG!
Hooded: Fine, fine. If you really wish it so! But do note I am lodging a vigorous word of complaint as I do!
Complying despite his irritation with the specter, Hooded hurried along through the maze, using the symbols smeared on the walls to track his progress until he reached a key. Hearing the exit unlock upon grabbing the ticket to escaping the maze, he began moving down the paths yet unmarked… only to shudder as he heard a laugh echoing from behind him…
Jackboolantern: HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! YOUR TAKING TOO LONG!
SUDDENLY, as Hooded looked behind him, he saw that Jackboolantern had grown MASSIVELY. In fact, he was as big as the corridors and was now chasing him through the maze, his pumpkin head/mask now pitch black with pure red outlines and orange glowing eyes!
Hooded: O-Oh dear. Ah- I… I'll withdraw the complaint! I assure you! I'll- Oh dear, I don't believe this will work… Erm…
In a panic as the ghost gained on him and finding himself unable to muster the speed needed to escape, Hooded searched his pockets. With Jackboolantern breathing down his neck, he pulled out a small remote-like device with a single red button. Hovering his finger over the Escape Button, he turned and braced for impact, allowing Jackboolantern to chomp into him.
The attack tore pieces away from his robes and caused him to yelp, but permitted him to press the Escape Button. Just as designed, it responded to the damaging attack by booting Hooded out of the maze, zipping him through the ceiling to a more advantageous position. Hooded took a moment to catch his breath from the event, but not before he sensed someone behind him.
Hooded: Phew… Dear me… What a relief I stowed the Deep Sea Tooth at home in favor of this device…
Napstablook: U-um, Mr. Hooded?
Surprised by the sudden appearance of this ghost, and still being slightly on edge, Hooded yelped in response, only to calm down once he turned around and saw it was just Napstablook.
Hooded: Oh, pardon, Napstablook. I just escaped an encounter with a rather pushy specter. I imagine I'll need to prepare for him to attempt a second strike. In the meanwhile what brings you by?
Napstablook: I-I don't mean to bother you, b-but I think I can help with some a-advice. You s-see, Jackboolantern hates the light, everything about it, actually. So if you can put a bright enough light source on him, he’ll shrink back down when he's in monster form.
Hooded: Brilliant! You are a welcome ally, Napstablook! If light is all that is necessary… I think I know precisely what can be done. Quickly, do you know if there is a garden nearby? Perhaps an herbarium? Somewhere with a variety of plants?
Napstablook: N-No, not really. A-although I d-did see some plants on a table in the Critic Corner office place… I-If that w-w-works. I-I'm sorry if it doesn't....
Hooded: Don't apologize for a moment! Knowing they have some plants in the Critic Corner offices is sufficient for this plan! Off I go!
With those words, and knowing Jackboolantern is undoubtedly pursuing him, Hooded hurried into the Critic Corner offices. Searching through the room, his eyes passed over stacks of records from 'Shroom FM and all kinds of dossiers on elemental enemies. Finally, Hooded found potted ferns, quickly grabbing them along with a bowl from Anton's review station. Tossing the ferns into the bowl, he began mashing them with a nearby pestle.
As Hooded mashed and gathered ingredients for his plan, he heard something from down the hall - at least fifty tiny voices all shouting out the same horrible phrase, “YOUR TAKING TOO LONG HAHAHAHA”, as Hooded saw FIFTY tiny pumpkins that look like the large Jackboolantern.
Hooded: This isn't an ideal preparation, but it will have to do…
Seeing the pumpkins approaching, Hooded reached into the bowl, grabbing the ground plant material and tossing it into the air. Much fell immediately, but a faint yellow powder lingered in the air. Grabbing a model flamethrower from a Smoke Scream figurine, Hooded burned the powder, producing a massive explosion! The explosion put out relatively little heat, well-controlled, but created a massive flash of light. As the Mini Boos were enveloped by the light, they all disappeared after the flash has faded. Apparently, they couldn't handle the heat, despite there being none.
Finally freed of the immediate threat, Hooded seized upon the opportunity and prepared the Scarepack, readying its beam to grapple Jackboolantern himself!
Jackboolantern: OH MR HOODED! IM COMING FOR YOU YOU BETTER COME BACK FOR MORE MAZE!
Hooded: Actually, I have something prepared for YOU to escape from! …that sounded more dramatic in my head…
Immediately, Jackboolantern summoned Hooded back into the arena in a mini mansion/maze arena, his large form indicating that this time is it.
Jackboolantern: YOU BETTER ACT FAST CAUSE YOUR TAKING TOO LONG!
Far better prepared for the maze this time after having dispelled Jackboolantern's summons, rather than attempt to comply with the specter, Hooded turned the Scarepack's beam upon Jackboolantern himself. Trying to grapple the ghost through the walls of the maze, he yanked the device back to put some pressure on his target.
Jackboolantern: HA HA YOU CAN'T GET ME CAUSE I'M LONG WHAT YOU DO NOW?
Hooded: Drat! I suppose you have forced my hand. This may go awry, but it's the only option remaining…
Rolling back his sleeve, Hooded raised a claw. As a Toady, he had apprenticed with a Magikoopa for a bit of time, as per Koopa custom. His tenure being a short one, he hadn't exactly mastered the magicks wielded by the Koopa wizards, though…
Bracing for any unpredictable results, he cut through the air with his single extended claw, mimicking a ray of light beaming down from the clouds.
Hooded: Lux Congerere!
With the incantation came a descending flash of light, albeit quite an erratic one, suffusing the whole maze! With the brilliant flash of light, Jackboolantern looked on in fear as he shouted “YOUR TOO BRIGHT!”. As the light enveloped him, he began spouting out gibberish in a panicked attempt to scare or even run away from the light, but as he kept shrinking and shrinking, he returned to his normal Boo size. Seeing an opportunity, Hooded BLASTED the plasma beam at Jackboolantern, SMASHING his pumpkin and revealing the Boo underneath.
Jackboolantern: OH NO!
Hooded: Cuter than I expected, admittedly, but- Oh, nevermind that! Be banished from this night, specter!
Jackboolantern: MAMA MIA WHOTNCHDFMJGWVDK!
Jackboolantern spouted as he was sucked into the Scarepack, finally being defeated for taking too long to attack. Hooded, exhausted from the spellcasting and wounded from Jackboolantern's earlier attack, slumped to the ground. Catching his breath, he sat next to the Scarepack for a moment, before finally shaking his head and forcing himself to rouse.
Hooded: No matter my fatigue at this stage, the battle is not yet won. I must regroup with the others…
Winded and wounded, Hooded rose back up into the air, wobbling as he flew off to again meet up with his allies…
Meanwhile, WT and Sparks were having a very electric encounter of their own with the ghost named Terror Volt. They dodged electric attacks and strikes while the ghost cackled and glitched out, not saying a word besides his insane laughter. Our heroes managed to find cover to try and think of a plan to take down this foe.
WT: So, electric guys are weak to the ground, right? You bring any pocket sand?
Sparks: Uh… unfortunately, no. I should’ve brought my dirt jar collection…
WT: …Who carries around jars of dirt?
Sparks: Probably just me! One would’ve been very useful now.
WT: Well, throw it at the guy, I guess.
Sparks: I would if I had one on me!
As Sparks and WT were discussing what to do, suddenly Sparks' portable VB began to ring. As he answered it, he talked to E. Gadd.
Sparks: Hey professor! What’s up?
E. Gadd: SPARKS MY BOY, there you are! I'm glad to see you're alright. I wanted to tell you I detected a paranormal being with HUGE amounts of static electricity nearby! I urge you to stay clear of it, and DON'T let it tap into the pack's power cell!
Sparks: Alright. Thanks for the tip!
E. Gadd: No problem, young feller. OH, and before I forget, be careful with those plasma rays and make sure that you don't-
Then abruptly, Sparks lost connection on his portable VB as electrical sparks started emitting from the machine.
Sparks: What the - -? Professor? Are you there?
WT: What happened?
Sparks: It seems that the ghost’s electric frequency is tampering with the VB mechanisms.
WT: Uh, say that again without the techno-jargon.
Sparks: When this electrical ghost is nearby, we can’t contact E. Gadd.
WT: You mean we have to come up with an idea ourselves now?! Well, you go first. I’m spent after the pocket sand idea.
Sparks: Ooh! I have an idea - Lightning usually strikes tall metal structures during thunderstorms! I’m going to take away that nasty ghost’s electricity and make him powerless!
Just then, SMASHING the wall they hid behind, Terror Volt sent out electric strikes at our heroes. They dodged them left and right, firing plasma beams at the electrical entity all the same, but to little avail as the beams were dissipated by electric pulses as they hit Terror Volt's body.
Terror Volt: GEHHEHEHEHEHE…
WT: Seriously? We just got this stuff!
Sparks: Stick to the plan. You distract him while I find a way to conduct his electricity!
WT: Okay, but next time you’re being the bait!
As Sparks ran off to find something useful, WT acted as the bait, luring over the electrical entity into attacking him.
WT: Oh boy, here we go. Ahem… Ohhh nooo! I sure hope no one tries to zap me with electricity! That would REALLY suck!
Terror Volt turned to meet WT, seeming very confused at why he was just standing there.
WT: Oh good, this thing doesn’t look like an issue. Probably couldn’t even zap a lightning rod!
Terror Volt: RRRAAAGGHH!
THAT seemed to get his attention! As WT began to ran faster around the arena, dodging blasts left and right, he began to slightly regret his earlier comments. Meanwhile, Sparks was searching around the arena for something to use as a lighting rod. Eventually, he found a metal spear on the ground. He decided this would be the best thing to use for this plan.
Sparks: A metal spear? How convenient! Now I just need to hit that shocking ghost with this and everything will turn out fine… I hope.
Napstablook: Um, I-I wouldn't be so sure about that if I were you, Mr. Sparks…
Quickly, Sparks turned around to see Napstablook just floating there behind him, not attacking. As such, Sparks figured he must have had a change of heart and was now on their side.
Sparks: Hello Napstablook! What’s up?
Napstablook: I w-want to help you guys out, so I-I'm giving you advice. You see, even if you get rid of Terror Volt's energy, if it's not discharged or transferred into something, he can just take it back and maybe even steal electricity from the thing you plugged it into.
Sparks: Oh, we don’t want that to happen.
Napstablook: A-And that's not all, you can't just plug it into ANYTHING, or else he'll just cause the machine to EXPLODE from pure electrical power alone! So it needs to be something that can withstand the power…
After a bit of thinking, Sparks came up with an idea. It may have been crazy, but it JUST might work!
Sparks: Hopefully this isn’t stupid… if I’m going to remove this guy’s electricity, I need to transfer it to me! If I can do that, he will lose all his power and I’ll be the one all powerful. I’m pretty sure I can take large amounts of electricity…
As Sparks picked up the spear and began to move towards WT, he saw that WT is currently about to be fried from Terror Volt, as he begged on the ground for mercy as Cackleator watched.
WT: Uh, hey, what do you say about some free company stock in exchange for not electrocuting me? I’m sure it’ll increase in value any day now…
Cackleator: By my calculations, we now have a 64% chance of winning this battle, so toast him if you wish.
Sparks: OK, here we go! Thank goodness I brought my iPad with me. Never leave home without it!
As Sparks plunged the metal spear into the ground, Terror Volt FIRED a beam at WT. As Sparks pushed him out of the way, he hit the spear and began to steal all of the ghost’s electricity. As Terror Volt lost more and more electricity, he began to glow dimmer and dimmer. Sparks then used the now-charged spear to transfer the electricity to his iPad.
Sparks: Now for the moment of truth! For The ‘Shroom and all of its writers!
Sparks pulled out a cable to connect his iPad to his head. As all of the electricity transferred to him, he began to act all charged and jittery.
Sparks: W-w-whoa! T-t-this-s feels a-a-amaz-zing-g!
WT: Wahaha! You’re gonna get it now!
Terror Volt: WAAUGH!
As Sparks and WT fired their beams at Terror Volt, he began to be sucked into the Scarepack, now amplified on Sparks' side with all the power he gained, until eventually he captured the shocking specter!
Sparks: Y-y-yay!
Then, calling him from his portable VB, E. Gadd chimed back in to catch up on the situation.
E. Gadd: Sparks? Sparks!? Ah, THERE you are my boy! I'm glad to see you're alright! So I assume you captured the ghost, correct? But I'm still sensing a large amount of electrical power in your area.
Sparks: C-c-correct! That e-electrical-l power is from m-m-me! D-do you know h-how to g-g-get r-rid of I-it?
E. Gadd: Don't worry young feller, I have JUST the thing. Hold on, I'm pixelating it to you… NOW!
Quickly, appearing from his portable VB in a ray of pixels, was a small battery the size of a shoe box with the classic E. Gadd insignia on it. As it emerged, it suddenly popped out a DVI/VGA plug, a bit smaller than Sparks but still big enough to fit on his head.
E. Gadd: I call this the Mega Micro Battery. It can hold enough power to power an entire city block, in just one small package! Just plug yourself in, feller!
Sparks plugged himself to the battery and all of the electricity was transferred to it, after which he started to feel a bit woozy after losing so much electricity in such a short time.
Sparks: (Kinda dizzy) Whoa… I feel completely different… Thank goodness that’s over.
E. Gadd: No problem, young feller! OH, and before I forget, I meant to tell you to be careful with those plasma rays and make sure that you don't cross their streams! If you do, it will incinerate anything they come in contact with! And I do mean ANYTHING, so just be careful, yes? Anywho, see ya feller!
Sparks: Thank you so much Professor!
Sparks went to meet up with WT to see if he was alright. After picking him up, Cackleator stood by and was still calculating.
Sparks: Waluigi Time! Are you alright? You didn’t get zapped did you?
WT: Yeah, I’m fine.
Cackleator: Hmmm, it seems as if our odds at success have dropped to 32%. This is, as people would say, “not good”.
Sparks: Not good for you and your buddies, maybe. My friends and I will put an end to this nightmare!
Just then, Clawgrip met up with our duo after finishing his own battle and catching his breath, alongside Hooded who had also finished his fight.
Clawgrip: Ahoy there, mateys! Need an extra pair o’ claws ta deal with these scurvy dogs ye got on yer ‘ands?
Sparks: Sure! The more the merrier!
Hooded: I certainly would welcome your aid, Clawgrip.
Clawgrip: Yargh, then let’s put this ghost story ta bed once an’ fer all, I say!
WT: Yeah, then we can finally get this issue out! And uh, the other important stuff too.
Clawgrip: Argh, then avast, me mateys! Listen well! Hooded, ye take the left flank, Sparks, ye take the right flank, WT, ye an’ me will go full frontal! E’erybody got that?
Hooded: I will follow your lead unquestioningly!
WT: Oh great, stick the tall guy in front.
Sparks: Got it!
As our heroes began to plan to take down Cacklelator and Boo, they all realised something. Besides Cacklelator, there was one ghost missing, but they couldn't seem to recall who, so they asked Cackleator what his team's percentage chance of winning was.
Clawgrip: Yar, then we know the drill! Cacklelator, what do yer team’s chance percentage o’ victory be?
Cackleator: By my calculations 32%, but seeing as how you have all fallen for his simple trick, I would say 40%.
Sparks: That’s not much of an increase.
Clawgrip: Nar, it sure ain’t.
Hooded: Ah, trick, you say? What trick-?
???: This one.
SUDDENLY, as our heroes were trying to figure things out, Stats the Slinker SOCKED Hooded in the back of the head, before disappearing once again.
Stats: HAHAHA! My plan WORKED! You four were SO busy with the others, you didn't notice me until it was TOO LATE! Now you're tired, and are about to be finished!
WT: Expecting to finish us off? TOO BAD. WALUIGI TIME.
Clawgrip: Yar! You’ll make a tasty treat!
As Stats appeared and disappeared, landing blow after blow on our heroes, things seemed bleak. As they missed shot after shot on him as our heroes tried to focus to see where he is, Napstablook arrived.
Stats: Hahahaha! Am I here? Or am I here?
Hooded: Hm… I wager I'm not seeing double after that blow to the head. This slippery specter is disappearing too rapidly for us to nab him…
Sparks: How annoying. We need to get him in one spot.
Quickly getting an idea, Clawgrip called Napstablook for his help.
Clawgrip: Yar, that gives me a brilliant idea alluvasudden! Ahoy, Napstablook! We need some ‘elp o’er ‘ere!
Napstablook: I-I'm here! What do you need, guys?
Clawgrip: Can ye ‘elp us keep this Stats guy in a single spot fer us ta get ‘im from?
Napstablook: O-Oh, no I can't. B-But I can tell you where he is! I-I can see him when he's invisible!
Clawgrip: Argh, that’ll do as well! So, where the ‘eck do ‘e currently be?
Napstablook: WALUIGI TIME, BEHIND YOU!
The shout strained his vocal chords, since it was the first time he's EVER yelled.
Hooded: Sparks, get Waluigi Time down!
With Hooded calling out, Sparks tackled Waluigi Time to the ground - as gently as he was able. With his companion out of harm's way, Clawgrip had a clear shot on the invisible specter.
WT: Oof. Uh, thanks for that.
Sparks: You’re welcome! We’ll have to check for any broken bones after this is over… sorry in advance.
Having an opportune attack window, ClawgripFan9001 aimed his beam and blasted the invisible ghoul clean and clear.
Stats: GAH! W-WHAT!? I DIDN'T TAKE NAPSTABLOOK'S BETRAYAL INTO MY CONSIDERATION! B-BUT NO! I HAD EVERYTHING FIGURED OUT TO THE FINEST DETAIL!
Clawgrip: Nargh, ye didn’t, ye calculating creep! An’ that will be yer downfall!
As Clawgrip sucked up Stats into the Scarepack, Stats shouted out “MY PERFECT PLAN, RUINED!”
WT: If we ruined it, was it really perfect?
ClawgripFan9001 flashed another grin and a V-sign with his clawtips at the readers at another successful ghost capture.
Clawgrip: Yar, I got another one!
Cackleator: Hmm, seems as if our chances at success have now dwindled to 7%. Not good odds, but even still I will try my best, raagh.
WT: Don’t you know when to just give up? Those odds are lousy!
As Cackleator pulled out some measuring tools, such as rulers and pencils, he flung them at our heroes. They dodged them easily, only for Cackleator to press some buttons on his suit and create big number constructs, sending them at his foes.
Sparks: Numbers?
Without the forewarning required to dodge, an already-wearied Hooded took a hit from one of the numbers, getting caught on the crook of a seven. As he was carried off, he called out to his allies.
Hooded: Say, isn't it common for these calculating cads to be defeated by being asked to calculate some impossibly lengthy number? Does anyone want to try such an approach?
Napstablook: Be careful! The bigger the number he hits you with, the more damage he does to you! He can add numbers to do more damage also, so don't let them touch!
Clawgrip: Yar, Hooded Pitohui be onto somethin’ there! Lemme ‘ave a crack at it! What do five divided by zero be?
The answer is zero, as such, when our heroes caused the zero and five to collide, the number disappeared, glitching out due to its impossibility. As our heroes dodged and added numbers, Cackleator continued to provide ammunition.
Sparks: Hey, Smarty-Greenie! What are all the digits in pi? Totally not asking because I’m craving some coconut cream pie right now.
Cackleator: Oh, that is easy, it is 3.141592653589793238-
As Cackleator trailed off to say the numbers of pi, our heroes took the chance to capture him, with Hooded blasting the Greenie as he was talking.
Hooded: Ah, the irrational number trick. I knew it was a classic for a reason! You feel free to keep at it… inside the Scarepack, that is!
Cackleator: Curses, it seems as if I have been beaten. Now my chances of success are at 0%. Oh darn.
As Cackleator was sucked into the Scarepack, he continued to count out pi. “46264338-”
WT: Can we go out and get a pie after this? I kind of want one now…
Clawgrip: Aye, sounds like a plan ta me! I’ll be bakin’ the Blue Finley Pie that Cosmo Neko taught me ‘ow ta make earlier this year!
Napstablook: Yay! W-we did it! Well, if i-it's okay with you guys, I-I'm gonna go home… I-I'm sorry if you still want me here though.
Clawgrip: Aye aye, Napstablook! Thank ye so much fer everythin’ ye did ta ‘elp us out t’night! ‘Ave a safe trip ‘omewards!
Napstablook: Bye… See you later captain… Hope to see you again…
As Napstablook floated away, the arena was in silence… that is, until it was broken by the sounds of clapping.
Boo1268: Now THAT was a preshow! Give them a round of applause, everyone!
Abruptly, the crowd roared and cheered at the spectacular show that was displayed; then they all quieted down at Boo's command.
Boo1268: Now I see, you four are WORTHY of a starring role! Now dance with me, my friends! Dance the dance of your DEATH!!!
As Boo rose in the air, a dark power surrounded him. This was the FINAL FIGHT!
Clawgrip: Argh, this is it, mateys! Let’s go an’ show this prehistoric possessor ‘ow we do things downtown!
Hooded: So long as we stand united, we shall not falter! Do your worst, demon! We will not abandon a fellow writer!
Sparks: You’re no match for the power of Friendship!
WT: Hope you enjoy being sent back to your little box, creep!
Quickly as light, Boo appeared behind our heroes and sent a WAVE of red flaming spirits at them. They attempted to dodge left and right as they were slightly singed and burned from the sudden barrage.
Clawgrip: Yargh! That be some ‘ot stuff the evil ethereal enigma be throwin’ at us there!
Hooded: This sure- oh! - would be a fine - ffffooof! - moment to have brought a Clamperl!
Sparks: First electricity and now fire?
WT: I don’t suppose anyone happened to bring an Ice Flower with them? Or a Bubble Flower? Superball, maybe? Even a Fire Flower, you know, fight fire with fire?
Ending his barrage, Boo teleported above our heroes and sent simple flame attacks at said heroes, in the form of red flame balls.
Clawgrip: Yar, I ‘appen ta ‘ave an Ice Flower on me! Anyone wanna try their luck with it?
The Sidestepper pulled out the Ice Flower and held it out to his allies.
WT: Oh yeah! Let’s get the palette swapping going!
Clawgrip: Yar, knock yerself out, WT!
The Sidestepper grinned as he tossed the Ice Flower towards the towering miscreant magnate.
Grabbing the Ice Flower, Waluigi Time’s mad scientist costume changed to various hues of blue, and he got to work hurling ice balls back at Boo’s attack, parrying many of them in the process, until BAM, he was hit! Now there was a chance to attack!
Clawgrip: Alright, mateys! Open the fire!
The Sidestepper and Co. started firing their Scarepacks at the possessed Boo1268. The beams broke the ice and damaged Boo, but surprisingly he GRABBED THEM and shook them off. He returned to the air once more, now summoning GIANT flame pillars where the heroes were standing. They had better get moving fast or they would get blasted!
Hooded: I am certainly feeling my injuries… but I am not so slow I cannot assist you! Clawgrip, grab onto my robes!
Swooping low to allow Clawgrip a chance to grab on, Hooded secured Clawgrip, lifting him high into the air and out of reach of the pillars of fire.
Clawgrip: Aye aye, Pitohui!
The Sidestepper quickly leapt and grabbed onto the Toady’s robes before being airlifted to safety and out of harm’s way.
Sparks: I should get moving too!
Sparks ran and avoided a flame pillar, grabbing WT as to not let him get singed as well.
As our heroes avoided flame pillars left and right, Boo teleported again, this time resuming his flaming spirit barrage move from before. As our heroes now knew how to dodge this move, WT was prepared to strike again.
WT: Time for you to chill out!
As WT threw the ice ball, he missed Boo1268 just barely. As he moved out of the way of the ice ball, he then raised his staff, causing spiky fleshy tendrils to pop up out of the ground in a straight line in front of him, aiming it at our heroes! Meanwhile, the ghostly crowd was LOVING the show, cheering Boo on.
Clawgrip: Yargh, looks like things be startin’ ta meat up, mateys!
Hooded: W-W-Wonderful pun, Clawgrip, b-but I fear I cannot hold you m-much longer. Perhaps a slice through them w-with your cutlass would do the trick?
Clawgrip: Aye aye, Pitohui! Fileting those fiends as per yer suggestion!
And with that, the pirate crustacean quickly swung his cutlass to make short work out of the fleshy tendrils before hopping back down onto safe ground to give the Toady’s muscles a rest for the time being. But after finishing cutting through the tendrils, Clawgrip was CHARGED at by Boo, his scepter now transformed into a long black blade, which Clawgrip clashed with in response.
Boo1268: I will send you to an early grave, pirate! Face my blade!
Clawgrip: Nar, I beg ta differ, matey! I already went ta the Overthere once, an’ I ain’t ready ta return there just yet!
Entering a brief sword battle, blades CLASHED and CRASHED, as each swordsman was experienced in their own way. As this happened, Sparks got a call on his VB while the others fired at Boo, Boo parrying the beams by slicing at them while also combating Clawgrip.
Sparks: Hi again Professor! Do you see what’s happening here?
E. Gadd: I DO SONNY, AND IT'S AMAZING! I never knew a ghost of THIS much power existed! But, it seems you need some assistance! I'm sending over someone's help in a wee bit, but it will take a while to pixelate them. As for now, try using the energy in that Mega Micro Battery to give you fellers an edge!
Sparks: If you say so!
Transferring power out of the Mega Micro Battery, Sparks became jittery again, but now knew how to send out the energy as pure LIGHTNING BOLTS! But first, he needed Clawgrip to move, or else he's a boiled crab!
Sparks: C-C-Clawgrip! MOOO-OO-OOVE!!
Hearing Sparks’ call, the Sidestepper quickly backed off, both to open up his ally’s attack window while also allowing himself some breathing space. As the beam of lighting hit Boo, he was stunned. The window to attack was open again!
Sparks: C-come on e-everyone! N-now’s the t-time!
Clawgrip: Aye aye! This chick is toast!
The heroes began to fire their beams at the possessed Boo1268.
Hooded: The professor had warned us against crossing the beams, but I wonder… With this degree of paranormal power…
WT: Rules were made to be broken! Let’s do it!
Before Hooded could get any funny ideas, Boo1268 BROKE out again. Maybe one more clear shot would do it? As he flew up into the sky, Boo1268 began to inflate himself like a balloon, with spikes forming on his body like a Spiny Egg, causing red fireballs to spew in random directions from their tips.
Hooded: Mr. Krad! I have been assaulted, battered, and signed repeatedly tonight by your and your forces!
Hooded hissed at the powerful spirit as he plummeted to the ground, the top of his robes getting seared by a passing fireball. Despite the rough landing, he continued to speak, irate as he pointed a claw at Boo's possessor.
Hooded: I do not enjoy doing this, but at this point, you have forced my hand. If you are so intent on raining fire upon us, I shall have to cool your ambitions! Glacies Caudere!
With another wave of his claw, Hooded cast a spell. Pointed pillars of ice rose across the battlefield. With no rhyme or reason to their placement, they served mostly to chill the air and reduce the power of the enemy's fire, only some intercepting fireballs and melting to nothing.
Boo1268: GAHAHAHAHAH! YOU MORTAL FOOLS THINK THAT CAN STOP ME!? Let's try something more interesting, shall we?
As Boo deflated, he CHARGED at Hooded, crashing and smashing through the ice pillars to get to him, but he did not pull out his blade, but instead HIS TEETH as he attempted to BITE into Hooded! Hooded, seeing what was about to happen, tried to flee, but was helpless against the spirit's speed as Boo grabbed him.
Boo1268: AH! Mortal blood! I have not tasted THIS in a long time! You may have done some damage to me, but it will ALL be for NAUGHT, once I suck your life from your body!
Quickly leaping into action, ClawgripFan9001 grabbed Hooded Pitohui from the possessed Boo1268’s clutches before taking the wounded Toady to safety before he was bitten, and pulled out his cutlass once more.
Clawgrip: Argh, ye won’t be feedin’ off of me fellow ‘Shroom writer an’ matey ‘ere, ye gluttonous ghoul! FIRE LADS!
Beams of both WT's Ice Flower and Sparks' electricity hit the scepter, trapping him in place alongside the other plasma beams. As Hooded was brought to safety, Sparks' VB began vibrating. Clawgrip, seeing it nearby, answered it.
Clawgrip: Ahoy there, Professor E. Gadd! ClawgripFan9001 speakin’, what can I do ye fer?
E. Gadd: CLAWGRIP, MY BOY! AIM THE VB AWAY FROM YOUR FACE, I'M BRINGING BACKUP!
Clawgrip: Aye aye, Professor!
Obeying the Professor’s commands, ClawgripFan quickly moved the VB away from his face to allow the Professor to pixelate the backup into the arena. Such backup happened to be SPECTURE STRIKER, appearing just in the nick of time, but still a bit weak from his previous battle.
Specture: Better late than never!
Clawgrip: Yar, I say! Not a moment too soon, Specture! Ye really came when we needed ye the most! Now let’s free yer master from this evil ethereal enigma’s ghostly grasp!
Specture: Right! As much as I would like to do it though, GAH! I'm still in a bit of pain, but even still, I can help… Here, take her.
Specture Striker handed Clawgrip Lucille, his Spectral Scythe, the Spirit Striker, while Specture took his cutlass.
Specture: I'll distract Boo and get him up in the air. Then YOU slash him with this, that will separate the two of them.
Clawgrip: Aye, that sounds like a plan ta me! I’ll take great care o’ yer blade while I’m at it as well!
He assured Specture Striker before gently yet also firmly grasping Lucille, ready to put Specture Striker’s plan into motion.
Specture yelled to his allies to pull Boo up more. They complied, with Sparks' electrical surge being almost run out!
Sparks: I-I can feel T-the electricity w-wearing off! Q-quickly!
As they LIFTED Boo1268 up into the sky, Specture began parrying Boo's blade attacks as he tried to resist the beam's pull, causing him to go up more.
Boo1268: HAHAHA! FOOLS! YOU WILL NEVER STOP ME!
Then, with a bit of strength left, Hooded picked up Clawgrip and THREW him while in the air.
Hooded: Have at him, Clawgrip, and fortune be with you!
Clawgrip: Yargh, fer the fate o’ New Wikisburg an’ the entire Mushroom World!!!
As ClawgripFan yelled out this valiant battle cry, he went flying towards the possessed Boo1268, before slashing Lucille up at him to separate Krad from the Fancy Phantom’s ghostly body.
Boo1268: GRAAAAHHHHHH! *SNNNNAAAAPPP!* *Pant* *Pant* I-I'm free? I'M FREE!
Krad: WHAT!? NO! COME BACK HERE YOU STUPID SPIRIT!
Boo1268: NOT TODAY, YOU FOUL FIEND! CORPUS CALLUSUIM RIGOUS!
As Boo1268 cast a spell to hold Krad in place, he shouted to his friends.
Boo1268: I DON'T KNOW HOW MUCH LONGER I CAN HOLD HIM! DO SOMETHING! QUICK!
Sparks: O-okay! C-come on e-everyone!
WT: Let’s cross some beams!
Specture: Wait, WHAT!? But the professor said that will destroy anything it touches!
Hooded: And as much as I respect the professor, even he admitted we're dealing with a paranormal power beyond any he has ever witnessed before! I concur with Waluigi Time's earlier statement. This rule was made to be broken!
Clawgrip: Aye, that it were! Now let’s put this thing ta bed once an’ fer all!
All firing their beams at once, the power violently shaking their packs as they cross the streams, our heroes continues to point their Scarepacks at Krad while Boo1268 held him in place. Eventually, exhausted from so much magical use, Boo1268 passed out, falling into Specture's arms, as Krad thrashed in anger.
Krad: NONONONONO! YOU WILL NOT STOP ME! I AM THE SPIRIT OF DARKNESS, I WILL RULE ALL! I WILL!-
Immediately, Krad began to disintegrate, bit by bit. Realizing what's happening as he tried to escape, he found he was permanently trapped.
Krad: NO! NO! NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
A BRILLIANT FLASH occurred as Krad faded to dust, his dark energy dispersing from where he once stood and BLASTING off to who knows where. Meanwhile, the CHEST OF DEMONS appears and began to suck up all the spirits in the audience and retransform the arena back into its rooftop state. It seemed as if the battle was finally over.
Sparks: *Huff, puff* I… I think it’s over. Is everyone OK?
Clawgrip: Aye, I’m fine an’ dandy…
The Sidestepper responded, softly panting as he too was tired out from all the combat he had to do over the course of this crazy night.
Hooded: I may need to retire to my chambers for a time, but I should survive.
WT: I’ve been worse. Think I need a shower, though…
Specture: Thank Goodness, Boo are you alright?
Boo1268: I-I'm fine, I-I'm just so happy! I'M FREE! I'M REALLY FREE! THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH!
Clawgrip: Aye, yer welcome, Boo…Anythin’ fer a good matey like yerself…
ClawgripFan responded with a tired and weak, yet genuinely happy smile.
Boo1268: Thank you Clawgrip, I truly appreciate all of you for your help.
Suddenly, pixelating from the portable VB, E. Gadd appeared with a med kit.
E. Gadd: That was ONE heck of a fight fellers! I was on the edge of my seat the entire time! But, ah yes, do any of you need medical assistance?
Clawgrip: Aye, I think most of us do. But I think that Pitohui an’ Boo need it the most, seein’ as they suffered most o’ the abuse thrown at ‘em o’er the course o’ this crazy night.
E. Gadd: Ah yes, will do. Oh, and before I forget, could you fellers give me back my Scarepacks once this is done?
Sparks: Sure thing! They were quite useful.
Boo1268 went over to Hooded and hugged him, but not too tightly as to hurt him more, getting teary eyed.
Boo1268: I-I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to hurt you…
Hooded: All's well that ends well, and that's what matters. So long as we are all safe, yes?
WT: Well, technically you were super-possessed, so I guess it doesn’t REALLY count. Good to have you back, Boo.
Boo1268: Thanks WT… Oh, and for future reference, please don't ask me to open strange paranormal boxes ever again, please?
WT: It seemed like a good idea at the time… But uh, yeah, lesson learned.
E. Gadd: Well, I don't know about you fellers, but perhaps this box would be safer in my hands, yes? No incidents like this on my watch.
Boo1268: Actually, I have a better idea. I'll take it, so as to give all the ghosts in there a proper home.
Specture: Or we can just bury the box somewhere, that also works.
Napstablook: That sounds like a-a good idea… Oh, also, hey, I-I'm back….
Clawgrip: Yar, all’s well that ends well, as the ol’ lad William Shakespeare would say. Ah, an’ welcome back ta ye as well, Napstablook!
Napstablook: H-Hey! Glad to be b-back. I wanted to ask, if it's not too much trouble, i-if I could s-sail with you sometime? I-I want to get inspiration for my next a-album… I-If that's okay?
Clawgrip: O’ course, lad! The more crew members, the merrier! Means I finally get ta bump me crew number up ta four people!
Napstablook: T-Thanks…
Napstablook, being happier than he had ever been before, hugged Clawgrip, and then Boo decided why not and hugged as well. Eventually, EVERYONE entered a group hug, even Specture, begrudgingly.
Sparks: YAY FRIENDSHIP!!
Specture: This is awkward, but....I'll endure it for now.
As The 'Shroom returned to normal and the clouds dispersed in the sky, the Scarepacks were returned with all the ghosts inside now contained. As Hooded, Sparks, and WT headed back to their homes and their previous tasks, Clawgrip brought Napstablook along to his ship to meet his crew. Meanwhile, Boo1268 and Specture Striker buried the Chest of Demons where no one will ever find it. And as such, this ends the tale of the Curse of the Lich Yard.
The End.
Very special thank you to ClawgripFan9001, WT, Sparks, and Hooded Pitohui for the help. This story was VERY hard to do and we put our all into it. (It was also meant to be in last month's issue but was pushed back much to my annoyance) But regardless, I hope you ALL enjoyed this section, and we'll see you all next time, and have a very late Happy Halloween! (And a very Merry Christmas)
