A Hero's Welcome

The celebration continued, with Toadette and the other Toads cheering and congratulating the heroes on their victory. Confetti and balloons filled the air, and the sound of music and laughter echoed throughout the castle grounds. Mario, Luigi, Peach, and Toad were surrounded by their adoring fans, all clamoring for a chance to congratulate them on their bravery. As the crowd swirled around them, Peach couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and gratitude towards Mario. She had always known that he was a brave and selfless hero, but his actions today had gone above and beyond. Without him, they wouldn't have been able to defeat Bowser and save the kingdom. In a moment of impulsiveness, Peach leaned in and gave Mario a gentle kiss on the cheek. Mario's eyes widened in surprise, and he felt a flush rise to his face. The crowd around them erupted in cheers and applause, and Luigi chuckled good-naturedly. Mario smiled, feeling a little shy but also happy. He had always had feelings for Peach, but he had never dared to hope that she might feel the same way. As he looked into her eyes, he saw a spark of affection there, and his heart skipped a beat. Toadette squealed with delight, waving her sign in the air. "Aww, Mario and Peach! They're so cute!" she exclaimed, as the other Toads cheered and whistled in agreement. Luigi clapped Mario on the back, grinning. "Looks like someone's got a crush, bro," he whispered, making Mario blush even more. Peach smiled, looking a little embarrassed but also happy. "I just wanted to thank him for being such a hero," she said, as if trying to downplay the significance of her actions. But Mario knew better. He had seen the look in her eyes, and he knew that there was something more to it than just gratitude. As they stood there, surrounded by their cheering fans, Mario felt a sense of hope that he hadn't felt in a long time. Maybe, just maybe, he and Peach could be more than just friends. Toadsworth, still looking a little shaken, approached the group. "Um, excuse me, Your Highness," he said to Peach. "I think we should get started on finding a way to break the mind control spell that Kamek used on me. We can't let him get away with this." Peach nodded, still smiling at Mario. "Of course, Toadsworth. Let's get to work. We have a lot to do to make sure that Kamek doesn't cause any more harm." As the group began to discuss their plan of action, Mario couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. Not just about the adventure ahead, but about the possibility of a new romance with the princess. He glanced over at Peach, who was already deep in conversation with Toadsworth, and smiled to himself. This was going to be an interesting journey.