Found my response after completing EarthBound for the first time

Something I sent to my friends in our group chat, please ignore my nickname there xd

Yay :D

General compliments, feat. that Tony moment

Yes, EB is a very feelgood game

Some cool 3D models of M1+2

Finally, both parties can exist! Modeling is fun but pretty boring ngl. Onto the 3d printing! #b3d #earthbound https://t.co/xhRi1bdrXs pic.twitter.com/6SJtdX9K2A

— Cosmix.art (@cosmix_art) June 2, 2024

THISI IS AWESOME

Every Villain Is Lemons#EarthBound #MOTHER3 pic.twitter.com/FZt6QbefWo

— A Polar Bear (@eh_polar_bear) May 30, 2024

While homework is kicking my ass, have this

https://www.tumblr.com/nortsauce/740684355396124672/the-great-chuck-e-cheese-debate-likes-shares

Poo's YouTube search history

"Very Cool" sweater guy, I think his name was Sven = Poo

Black T-shirt guy doing the most talking = Jeff 

Everyone else = Ness & Paula xd

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A thought on Ness's... accent?

An excerpt from one of my notebooks + a few edits. Might post more of these sometime.

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

I first knew Ness from Super Smash Bros Brawl, so it came as a kind of shock to me when I found out that his mother and sister were totally blonde-hair-blue-eyes Caucasian. It's kind of funny because for so many years I saw Ness as just some little Asian boy with a baseball bat and psychic powers. And that's something I just can't unsee xD

So I guess when I'm drawing my portrayal of Ness, he's got to be at least half (of EarthBound's equivalent to) Japanese or something, or just vague in general. Honestly, it's a good thing that his dad's very ambiguous, and not much is known about him except for the fact that he works far away enough to not come home on a regular basis.

Because of this, you can make up all kinds of stories about Ness's history and his relationship with his father, if you want to stick close to canon. I remember reading someone's interpretation where Ness spent a lot of time - at least his early childhood - with his father (I'll add: maybe in his father's home-country before moving to Eagleland). Perhaps it could have been because of that, Ness has a bit of an accent (not as strong as his one from Smash, but an accent still).

In another fan-art, someone had the idea that Ness was able to speak in fluent Japanese based from his accent in Smash, too. The fan-art was of him talking to Poo (who is very likely multilingual), while Paula and Jeff have no idea what they're saying. I thought I could draw some inspiration from that, too.

So... Ness & Poo, huh? BONUS PART

https://www.tumblr.com/choccos-aaart/751089473803190272/holy-crap-hell-yes-i-did-not-expect-this-at

So... Ness & Poo, huh?

My only knowledge of romance is from the crap I watched in middle school xd
But I actually like NessPoo so here's something

UPDATE: A bonus panel has appeared :D (by @guardianoftheearth on Tumblr)

Original under the cut:

Found some drawings from my old sketchbooks

Was looking through my doodles instagram (I forgot the login and I'm too lazy to find where I stored it xd)

Anyways, here are some drawings :D

The part where Teddy decides to kick out Lloyd is so funny xD

VENUS!

Orange Kid, Apple Kid xD

Ana doodle

She was found in a church, so I'm gonna dress her up in a typical "Sunday outfit"

Feat. an old doodle of Ninten & Giegue

Everything here is from memory, I have no idea if Giegue's face is even like that xd

Dialogue: Poo and Tony actually talk

After that dumb fight they had, Poo and Tony start talking xd

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

TONY: So, tell me! How did you become friends with Jeff?

POO: Ah, how? It all started when I was given the news... 

"The news that I was ready to meet the boy from the prophecy - Ness of Onett! 

I underwent violent mental and spiritual training to learn how to sacrifice everything that mattered to me...! To come to terms with death itself, just to prove I was ready to join him! And his team. 

At last, came the time for us tw-- four finally cross paths, as fate had intended! I swore to fight by Ness's side! To obey him and do as he pleases! 

I was reluctant at first, but after some time, I now truly see this brave young man as not only a comrade, but my best friend in the whole wide world!"

POO (CONT'D): Oh, and then he introduced me to a smart boy named Jeff Andonuts. And that's how Jeff and I became friends.

TONY: Wow... You and I have so much in common...

"Sacrifice" and "And Then There Was One"

 Perfectly grim and bleak fanfics that happen just before the climax of EarthBound. (Spoilers, by the way)

Sacrifice - by recklessinventor:
https://archiveofourown.org/works/29185596/chapters/71657928

And then there was one - by tazmilyxfamily:
https://www.tumblr.com/tazmilyxfamily/638783534487764992/drabble-and-then-there-was-one?source=share

"NO DAD! NO MOM!"

Everyone, except for those who haven't finished MOTHER 3, please watch this xd

Thoughts on/headcanons for Paula

Links to: Jeff (Ness & Poo's should be out later)

•  She keeps a litte diary with her all the time. She's been writing since she was little. Although her writing has matured over the years, she still hasn't stopped writing "Dear Diary" at the start of each entry.
  Here are the kinds of things she writes about:
  
• Normal diary stuff (her personal thoughts and feelings)
• Made up scenarios in her head
• A journal of her adventures
• Contacts
• Gratitude, prayers, IDK spiritual stuff
• Skill development logs
• This is becoming more of a personal all-purpose notebook now

• When anticipating fights, she gets excited and giggly. She's fully aware that she's the PSI brawn of the team. She knows how powerful she is.

• She's the type who experiments and gambles her way through life. She defies reality. Row row! Fight the power! (Particularly inspired by her 'Pray' ability xD)

• Since her weapon of choice is a frypan, it's easy to assume that she likes to cook. But cooking with her doesn't get peaceful, she goes all high-pressure sous-chef on you. Sometimes she will try to restrain herself.

• Something I imagine her enjoying is teen romance novels & manga

• Most of the time, she's playful and can even get as immature and rowdy as Ness. But if she's annoyed enough, she's basically a nagging babysitter. I guess she's like this at the preschool. Her limit's pretty hard to reach.

• Of the four, she's most likely to suggest brute force to get past a situation. I think Teddy and her would get along xD

• Secretly, she really likes the edgier genres of rock music. DEATH METAL!

• She likes to joke about how she's the "sweet and innocent Paula~" and the other three are like "NO."

• Apparently her dad calls her a tomboy if she's the only one conscious in the party when you talk to him. 

Things I would imagine her saying:

• When I was picking out an instrument to learn for school, I kinda wanted to learn the guitar, but I was encouraged out of it because apparently it was too much of a "boy's instrumet". Man! If anything's going to be a "boy's instrument" it's the freakin' trumpet! Seriously, there's no coincidence that "brass" and "brash" sound the same.
  (Fun fact: This is something I heard a classmate say once in music class, and it's stuck with me for years)

• 
  

"みなぎる王子" / "Overflowing prince"

 Found at: https://www.nicovideo.jp/watch/sm4127600

Maybe this is enough internet for today. I have work to do, anyway.

"テッテレプー王子" / "Prince Tetterepoo"

Found at: https://www.pixiv.net/en/artworks/27767977

Figuring out Paula (part 2)

(Part 1 is here)

THINGS TO CONSIDER

• Even at 12/13, she already has a job which involves looking after kids
• At least her father (if not both her parents) is pretty overbearing. I'm getting helicopter-parent vibes
• She grew up from a religious background
• She can telepathically communicate with others (at least the rest of the Chosen Four)
• She has only offensive PSI abilities
• Her weapon of choice is a frypan
• She likes teddybears
• I'll look out for more details later (maybe)

IDEAS 1

• Gets excited and giggly when anticipating getting into fights
• The type who experiments and gambles her way through life
• Defies reality. Row row! Fight the power!
• She likes to cook. But cooking with her doesn't get peaceful, she goes all high-pressure sous-chef on you. Sometimes she will try to restrain herself xD
• She enjoys reading teen romance novels & manga

IDEAS 2

• Screw it I think I just found my version of Paula. Now it's time to make her a thoughts/headcanons page xd

Fanfic (in script form): Prince of Mischeif's first prank

Another old script I wrote. Something that happens sometime after that one deep conversation that Poo has with Ness. Anyways, here's Poo pulling his first prank on Ness xD

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

FLASHBACK:

It's late at night. Poo and Ness hang out on the top of a Scarabian building.

NESS: Let me see that troublemaker again! It's something I really like about you, so I'm bummed you gotta hide it all the time!

Poo pauses for a short while. 

POO: (In his thoughts) Troublemaker, huh...?

PRESENT TIME:

In the streets of Fourside, Ness leans against the wall outside of a book store. He practises some tricks on his yo-yo. In a strong gust of wind, Poo suddenly appears, his hands behind his back.

NESS: Oh sweet! You're back!

POO: Ness! Here, take this.

Poo takes a hand from his back, revealing some kind of food item covered in pretty wrapping.

NESS: Whoa... What is it?

Besides them, Jeff and Paula walk out of the book store. They notice Poo's back and is giving Ness some kind of gift.

POO: Ah! It's a type of candy. A Dalaamese favourite.

NESS: No way, thanks! That's a HUGE piece of candy. Man, you're spoiling me rotten!

PAULA: Oh hey, Poo, what's that? Is th--

POO: Oh? What's that? You're wondering if there's any for you two? 

PAULA: No, I-- Yeah, kinda...

POO: My sincerest apologies, Paula and Jeff! I was too preoccupied in being such a loyal, faithful servant to Ness that I remembered to bring back a special candy just for him!

NESS: (Humorously) Yeah! Get your own minion!

PAULA: Ugh! What do you take us for?

JEFF: Yeah, mine's not here right now...

POO: Now, let Master Ness enjoy his treat.

Poo flashes a sinister smile at Paula and Jeff, then brings his attention back to Ness who is unwrapping the candy.

PAULA: Okay, what gives?

Ness takes a huge bite out of the candy and chews eagerly.

JEFF: No, Paula, look...

NESS: WHAT IS TH-- WHAT THE HELL!!!

Ness violently spits out a piece of soap and coughs out bubbles.

POO: WAHAHAHAHAHA!!!

NESS: H-HAHAHAAAH! A DALAAMESE FAVOURITE, HUH?! HOW ABOUT YOU TRY IT?!

Poo runs away while laughing histerically. Ness chases right after.

NESS: THIS IS WAR! I'M GONNA GET YOU BACK SO BAD! YOU WON'T SEE ME COMING!

Paula and Jeff just watch.

PAULA: *Snicker* 

JEFF: What. ... (Calling out) Hey! I would not advise roughhousing near a frickin' ROAD! (Pause) Oh, I give up. 

PAULA: ...

JEFF: If anything happens, they can just come back like how we always get it done.

PAULA: ...They're the only real healers in this group. ...Aren't they?

JEFF: Oh yeah, OH CRAP

Is that...?

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I almost didn't think this was legit

 SOMEONE EDITED THE MOTHER WIKI

I read that this was the case for Lucas in a post, but I didn't think it was for real xd 

Check the wiki, maybe it's still like this

(Lucas)

(Claus)

(Kumatora)

(Duster)

(Boney)

The 4 kinds of stupid - EarthBound edition

1) All upside, no brains (Ness)

2) All backbone, no brains (Paula)

3) All logic, no wisdom (Jeff)

4) All wisdom, no logic (Poo)

I forgot where I read someone say that Jeff & Poo had opposite ways of thinking but I'll link it later if I find it. What I'm saying is whoever came up with that idea is a genius

HAHA

From: https://www.reddit.com/r/earthbound/comments/14mcb2s/which_one_of_these_guysboys_would_have_the_most/

Orange Kid and Poo aren't there. Y'know why? 

They canonically have fangirls each so they both win automatically xd

bruh

This is hilarious, this is comic-worthy. I'll be right back

Stamp Page

This blog now has a STAMPS PAGE! :D I'll keep adding more next time I feel like

"...Ninten and Ness told Lucas a “Your mom” joke."

Happy (belated) Mother's day xd

...Ninten and Ness told Lucas a “Your mom” joke. pic.twitter.com/ApXiMEEDDJ

— Duster (@KevLikeSmoothie) May 11, 2024

Thoughts on/headcanons for Jeff

I just got Jeff figured out, so here are my notes on him so far. I'll keep updating this as more ideas come along. I'll add Ness, Paula's and Poo's someday.

• So, if he's "really near-sighted" I'm guessing he takes his glasses off when working on smaller-scaled sections of his projects that need precise movement and work.

• I've mentioned this before, but I feel like Jeff's the kind of guy to keep a pocket notebook and write down or roughly sketch anything that interests him. Those sorts of things include:
• Quotes he heard people say, or ones from anywhere he's read
• Sketches of vehicles, machinery, and even buildings or random objects he comes across
• Random facts that he hears about any subject
• Drafts of letters, subjects to talk about
• Tips and advice he learns
• You get the general idea

• He's just a little stoic. Stoic enough that he's no fun to annoy, but not so much that he's no fun to be around either. 

• It's easy for him to one-up most people in a discussion, debate or argument. In fact, he likes doing this a lot. Sometimes he'll get competitive in normal conversations

• I want him to have somewhat violent tendancies and itches for action. Particularly inspired by this clip and this old comic I made based off a scene from the same show. 

• I feel like he'd be a little scheming and likes to take advantage of situations. I remember so many years ago, I read this one fanfic of the zodiac signs babysitting a kid and everyone except for Capricorn and Scorpio agreed to ditch the job and go to a party/club. Capricorn whispered to Scorpio, "Okay. Once this is done, we'll split the money". I dunno, I feel like that's something my version of Jeff would do

• If this wasn't an obvious interpretation of him, Jeff likes science fiction too. He tries his best not to get bothered when the creators get a bit too creative with their worldbuilding.

• "kind of shy", ok so Jeff can't socialise. That's where Tony comes in - to do all the talking. ...Except for when Jeff leaves to join Ness, so that becomes the other party members' jobs.

• When he uses slang & dialect from Winters, sometimes he has to explain himself to the rest of the party. Some of those words have rubbed off on them, the same way some Eaglelandian slang and dialect has entered his own vocabulary

To be continued...?

Crackfic (kinda): POO VS TONY

Probably how a fight would start between Poo and Tony. Sorry, I couldn't think how how to include Paula in this xd

Anyways, this was inspired by this one manga/doujinshi page (which I saw once on Google images,but now can't find)[UPDATE: NO WAY I FOUND IT (Tweet/Image)]. It was of the scene of Poo arriving to the party and pledging his loyalty and devotion to Ness, and Jeff thinks to himself, "that reminds me of someone..." referring to Tony. 

Anyways, enjoy this stupid crackfic & my attempted humour.

Also, I'm headcanoning that Paula's shy to write profanity because of her upbringing in a religious household. She swears quite a bit in her diary, and has especially done a lot more since joining Ness, but she still censors them xd

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

Dear Diary;

Ness and Jeff are usually best buddies. But they're so different, so it's not really surprising when they get into dumb fights. This time, Jeff told Ness he was a "Low IQ b****" and it really p****d Ness off.

Anyways, while all that drama's happening, I'm just trying to level up Ness's character in FATHER. He said he'd lend me $20 if I got him to a high enough level.

Anyways, that's it for now. Will update you more later.

-Paula.

---

At Ness's house, Ness, Jeff and Poo sit at a table with playing cards, cash, and snacks scattered everywhere.[I have no idea what they're playing but probably it was Black Jack, and they're gambling with their luch money and snacks]

NESS: "Low IQ"?! WHAT AM I TO YOU? STUPID?!

JEFF: In a matter of fact, yes.

NESS: AAAGH, I've had it with you, man! HOW DA HELL DO YOU WIN SEVEN TIMES IN A ROW?!

JEFF: It's strategy.

NESS: It's a CHANCE game!

JEFF: Also, a bluffing game.

NESS: OHHH MAN, I'm gonna kick your ass so hard that you'll be crapping outta your mouth! 

JEFF: (Condescendingly) Alright then.

NESS: YEAH.

JEFF: ...

NESS: ...

JEFF: See, you're hesitating because of my glasses.

NESS: No, I'm not!

JEFF: (Laughing) Oh man, I c--

POO: Stand aside, Ness. Allow me!

JEFF/NESS: Huh?

SMAAAAAASH! Poo kicks Jeff in the butt!

JEFF: AAH! 

---

Meanwhile, in Winters... Tony is doing homework on his bed.

TONY: What was that? ... *Gasp* Jeff!

---

Jeff has landed head-first on the ground. Poo dusts off his hands.

JEFF: MY GOODNESS, WHAT WAS THAT?!

POO: Ness, the deed has been done. 

Poo tries to fist-bump Ness. Ness leaves Poo hanging.

NESS: I could've done it myself you know!

POO: I appreciate your gratefulness.

Shoooooooooot.... CRASH! 

JEFF: ... ... ... What's that noise?

TONY: JE-E-E-E-E-EFF!!!

Tony comes in running.

JEFF: Oh boy...

TONY: I knew it! Someone's bullying you! NOW WHO DARES TO HURT JEFF?!

NESS: ME!

POO: ...

TONY: UGH what a loser (To Jeff) What do you want me to do to him?

JEFF: Deck him

NESS: HAHAHA, are you seriou--

Tony tries punching Ness. Poo blocks it!

POO: Don't!

NESS/JEFF: ...

TONY: And who are you?

POO: I am Poo! Crown prince of Dalaam and protector of this idiot, who in a bluffing game lost a total of seven times in a row, Ness of Onett. [NESS: HEY!] So, you must be this "Tony" I've heard about.

TONY: Yup, I'm Tony! Jeff's one and only!

POO: I see. I always had the impression that you were a gentle boy, always pathetically worrying about that smart alec Jeff, based from the contents of that one letter [TONY: WHAT], but seeing how you've attempted to act violently upon Ness... (pause) Hmph. It's a shame we hadn't met under better circumstances...

TONY: Oh so you want to fight me, Prince Charming?

POO: Well, it depends! You lay a finger on the young Onettan man, and you're dead, boy!

Tony pokes Ness.

NESS: Ow!

POO: ARE YOU SERIOUS

NESS: Y'know what, I'm outta here...

Ness scoots away. Poo steadies himself into a fighting stance.

POO: (To Tony) If this is what you choose, then a duel you will get! Prepare yourself!

Ness walks over to Jeff.

NESS: Hey Jeff, let's just play video games with Paula.

JEFF: Yeah, let's go.

Ness and Jeff leave to the other room. Meanwhile, Tony assumes a defensive stance, too.

TONY:Oh goody! I've been waiting for a day like this! Let's go, prettyboy!

TO BE CONTINUED...?!

I've got 2/4 of the Chosen Four figured out...

I'm gonna spill out some ideas now. Also, I'm gonna start with Jeff because I found that he was easier to figure out, and because my notes for Paula is mainly just me trying to figure her out xd

JEFF

• Sticking to canon: he's "not very strong, really near-sighted, kind of shy, and [tends] to be a little reckless". Good with gadgets, machines, and deadly firearms. Easy.
• I don't know how stoic I want him to be. I don't want him to be totally emotionless, so I'll make just him a little stoic. Stoic enough that he's no fun to annoy, but not so much that he's no fun to be around either.
• I want him to have somewhat violent tendancies and itches for action. Particularly inspired by this clip and this old comic I made based off a scene from the same anime xD
• I feel like he'd be a little scheming and likes to take advantage of situations. I remember so many years ago, I read this one fanfic of the zodiac signs babysitting a kid and everyone except for Capricorn and Scorpio agreed to ditch the job and go to a party/club. Capricorn whispered to Scorpio, "Okay. Once this is done, we'll split the money". I dunno, I feel like that's something my version of Jeff would do xD
• Despite his introvertedness and overall nerdiness, he also loves getting into action (alonside the rest of the four)
• He's the kind of guy to keep a notebook wherever he goes. He takes note of everything, even if it's just some fact/quote that he'll never use ever. He just puts anything that interests him.
• You know what, I should just make entire posts dedicated to headcanons now. I think I've just figured out my version of Jeff

PAULA (part 1)

• I feel like Paula's one of the hardest to figure out, so watch my thinking process here xD
• Also, there's a LOT of thoughts here, which is why this is a Part 1

• It's kind of easy for the others because they fall under pretty obvious archetypes: dumb jock/moma's boy, nerd, and (from a Western/American point of view) royal from the "mysterious" East. 
• Paula's just... "girl", and I know there are a ton of types of girls. You'll notice that everywhere you look, the portrayal of Paula's personality in fanart varies quite a bit.
• Here are some Paula variations:
• Sweet, soft and innocent. A very shy, and quiet girl. (Honestly, this is more how I like to characterise Ana) Bonus: an innocent smile paired with the line "you have no idea how powerful I am" xD
• Feels like the only mature one of the group, has to clean up after everyone else, the stressed "mom friend" making sure nobody's doing anything stupid, under a lot of pressure to prove herself, being the only girl of the group.
• The kind of typical old-school "girly girl" who writes to her "dear diary" every night, thinks about boys and enjoys gossip. But, mess with her, her hair, or her teddybear, and you're getting set ablaze. Excited to get in on the action.
• I dunno if this fits under the same category as the above or deserves its own one... But I'm thinking of the archetype of like the one girl in the main enseble of a shounen action-adventure anime xd I dunno where to start when it comes to listing adjectives here
• Ok, now I dunno if I'm listing what I remember seeing or if I'm just making stuff up as I go, so I'll stop
• Okay, HONOURABLE MENTION: I've only seen this like once, but I love this portrayal a lot... Tomboy Paula. Literally just another "dude" but with pretty hair and a pink dress. Now that's she's away from home, she can finally get her hands in the dirt
• To be continued...

How does Jeff cope with Rain?

An old comic from 2022 that I made based off a scene from an anime (Joshiraku)

"Audio Source: Joshiraku (https://youtu.be/TgqtFf3ly1Q) I remembered Joshiraku shortly after beating the game, and naturally, I immediately thought of this. It's about time I actually made something out of it xD"

NESS OF ONETT (redraws) & one more thing

I forgot to colour in Ness's hair, and I can't be bothered to fix that now

So this is the guy you're planning on dueling with to settle a point of honour.
Like, "If Ness REALLY is the chosen one that I am sworn to protect, then he shall prove it!" -Prince Poo

If you ever came across this one post, that's where the sources came from

Also, an abandoned WIP which led to that "Poo has a deep conversation" fanfic I eventually wrote

Third panel was supposed to be his spirit going "HOLY CRAP NOW I CAN BE FREE!!!" or something

First Lunch

Based off a scene from the 2016 remake of The Magnificent Seven.

Original scene under the cut

Shitpost #2

(Source: zappavolta on Tumblr)

Shitpost #1

(source: memewhore on Tumblr)

"Porky's Mobility Mech"

EarthBound x South Park has been brought up multiple times in the fandom, but I feel like this is the best contribution I've seen. 

Honestly, I kinda like how they decided to make Paula the one who's mostly talking to Porky instead of Ness. First, I feel like it adds a nice touch to how Paula's personality could be interpreted as - she seems like to me the most proper, responsible and reasonable out of the Chosen Four anyway. And, I don't see much fan content depicting how she and Porky would interact, and seeing her in this suits her quite well in my opinion.

Also 'Gentle Rain' playing during Porky's contemplative moments cracked me up the first time I watched it xD

Earthbound Tribute I wish I saw sooner because it's so fucking funny x'D

Earthbound Tribute pic.twitter.com/qHbtEA7Nh1

— StaggerNight (@StaggerNight) April 1, 2024

THIS DUB IS ALSO FUNNY AS HELL

https://www.tumblr.com/elder-sister/749950873493454848/ouroborope-snake

"Dare competition for Ness, Paula, Jeff, and Poo!"

Basically, a little elimination-game kind of scenario with the Chosen Four. I frickin' love scenarios like these.

https://dare-these-children.tumblr.com/post/123089315292/hey-poo-does-know-he-can-come-out-now-right

https://dare-these-children.tumblr.com/post/123316034437/poo-occasionally-i-can-get-caught-up-in-my

Fanfic (in script form): Poo has a deep conversation

Technically, this is part of The 10 Stages of Befriending a Strange Eaglelandian Hero. This is the first version of the scene that plays out, but the one that will make it into the series (if it does hopefully come to existence) will be written in third-person.

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

It's late at night. Poo hangs out on top of a Scarabian building. Lying down, he watches the stars and admires the way they glitter in the sky. He is tranquil.

A little further down the roof, Ness finishes climbing up. He grins at his achievement, but upon seeing Poo, he quiets down immediately. He awkwardly stands there for some time. Then from his pocket he takes out his yo-yo and slings it.

SFX: Sliiiiiing!

POO: AH--

Poo jumps up and assumes a defensive stance.

POO: WHO GOES THERE?!

NESS: AAH!

POO: Oh, it's just you. (Pause) Wait, how long have you been there? Have you been watching me?!

NESS: Uh no, I just arrived. Seriously, why're you so uptight all the time?

POO: Well! ...It's because trouble is everywhere, that's why!

NESS: I mean... yeah. Trouble's a part of life, and you just have to roll with it, y'know?

POO: Hmph. Well, I refuse to get into any trouble at all.

Ness walks up next to Poo and sits down at the roof's edge.

NESS: You refuse to, huh? Why?

POO: It's... It's because I have to be the best! I trained my whole life so I can aid you in saving the world, and eventually... rule an entire country.

NESS: Dang... I... I dunno what to say about all that... That's a lot.

POO: But... Saving the world is also your responsibility... Hmm... You know, I always--

NESS: Okay, this conversation's getting too deep! Let's change the topic!

POO: Y-yes...! In fact, I would be more than happy to change the topic, as well!

NESS: Hah! We finally agreed on something! Alright, let's see... 

Ness pauses to think for a moment. Poo sits down at the edge of the roof.

NESS: Ah! Remember when I was messing with you earlier today?

POO: Be specific.

NESS: At the markets.

POO: (Sighs) Oh yes, now I know. Go on...

NESS: Firstly, remember that you were the one that started this whole one-on-one duel thing.

POO: Duel and one-on-one mean the exa--

NESS: SO, WE WERE MAKING a huge mess out of the place--

Poo rolls his eyes and says nothing.

NESS: ...And then some old guy was chasing us. While all that was happening, you had like some kind of "evil laugh" or something! 

POO: I had what?

NESS: (Humorously) Man! I didn't even know you had that in you! I didn't even know you could laugh at all!

POO: You're able to notice things like that?

NESS: Wait a minute, just to make sure, you were laughing at the guy, right?

POO: I don't know! But, I suppose it could have been at the man... 

NESS: (Laughing) Okay, good!

POO: O...kay?

NESS: And then, when he was screaming at us you said the funniest things, like (immitating Poo) "That is NOT the way you treat the prince of the skies!" (normally) and other things like that!

POO: Surely, that was a serious expression. 

NESS: I dunno, you seemed pretty playful to me.

POO: I really said it like that?

NESS: Yeah, you were hilarious!

POO: Hilarious...

NESS: And finally, (sighs fondly) when we escaped the guy, I saw on your face that you had the most mischievous smile. You could barely hide it, even with the serious exterior you have all the time....

POO: ...To think I SMILED after all that...?! I cannot believe myself! I didn't realise my disrespect -- all my masters will be so ashamed of me!

NESS: WHOA, whoa -- chill out, your highness! That's a good thing! (Under his breath) ...Kinda.

POO: (Sarcastically) Oh, really now?

NESS: Yeah, I mean... Sure, rules are rules, and you're expected to follow 'em, but when you're a little disobedient, that's where the fun's at!

POO: (Genuinely) Really?

NESS: Yes, really! This is why I think you should loosen up a little. You're not at the palace right now, are you?

POO: Your point?

NESS: Let me see that troublemaker again! It's something I really like about you, so I'm bummed you gotta hide it all the time!

Poo pauses for a short while. Ness starts looking a little concerned about what he had just said.

NESS: Okay, forget I--

POO: You... Nobody has ever said anything like that to me before...

Ness raises his eyebrows in astonishment.

NESS: Wow... Uh, you're welcome. (Pause) Okay, I mean absolutely no offense when I say this, but man, I would hate to be a prince if it meant growing up like... uh... you.

POO: (Sigh) I understand. 

NESS: Anyway! Today was fun! Let's go one-on-one again sometime!

POO: Absolutely! 

NESS: And also, try to chill out more when we hang out. At least when you're with me, Jeff and Paula, quit being so under pressure.

POO: Hmph! Alright then! Easy!

NESS: Uhuh. Doubt it!

POO: I said it will be easy!

NESS: Y'know what, just lie back down and look at the sky or whatever you were doing. You were pretty calm then. Right?

Poo pauses for a moment.

POO: Huh... (Under his breath) Yes, I was...

EB fanart, April 2024 and somewhere around that timeframe

Boys so cool

Based off an escalator pic that I took of my younger cousin. When he sat down on the steps, I immediately thought to myself "That's such a Ness thing to do". I also slapped in Jeff because I wanted him to have a buddy.

And so, came the start of a very complicated friendship

Imagine if their first meeting went something like this on the inside? I know the humour is stupid here, but I just had to get this idea out xD

I remember seeing some (few) fan-arts depicting the relationship between Ness & Poo as more of a subtle rivalry. A different sort of take to the usual interpretation where Poo dramatically goes all out with dedicating his life to Ness.

Anyways, not too long ago I thought, because Poo’s a hard-working prince, imagine if he held high expectations for a lot of things? What if he was just a little conceited, even? (His food preferences kind of are my only “evidence” to this, but just barely xd)

So, if it’s the chosen leader of the team that’s destined to save the world from an evil cosmic entity, then it must be a big deal. But then he turns out to be just a small-town boy who eats junk food out of trash cans.

And also I guess some teenagers are just so mean to each other for no reason xD

"Ohhh NICE one! You better watch out PRINCE CHARMING, you're just lucky I'm not serious about gettin' in a relationship right now!" 

 Some time after a deep conversation with Ness, Poo's been a little more mischiveous lately

Ah yes, what a good day to be PROTECTING Ness!

A continuation of what happens

Complete the heart, Jeff!

Very standard and unsurprising kind of illustration of JeffTony

Found a source of inspiration for the dynamic between Ness & Poo :D

Some highlights from a forum thread (or whatever you call it) on how a battle between Ness & Poo would turn out. Here, I gathered some insight on how their initial sort of rivalry might turn out, plus some bonuses on their thematic dynamic :O

I get happy when I'm not the only one with this kinda idea :D

In a way, my version of this story will make Ness & Poo's initial rivalry partially one-sided. Poo's so serious about it and Ness is just teasing. Although Ness does get a little envious of how "perfect" Poo can get. (I'll hopefully elaborate this in another post later)

Saved this one because it's kinda funny xd

Ok how did we get here xd

I was not expecting this forum to get into EarthBound's world's politics so quickly xd But that whole "honourable type who would demand a 1 on 1" kinda happens in one of the scenario's I've imagined up. (And it led to a deep conversation that changed Poo forever, which I'll hopefully post here someday as well)(UPDATE: Here's the script version)

Thematic dynamic?!

I really like that observation of Ness & Poo's sort of thematic dynamic. "Massive raw power vs intense and focused training"... I could use that as inspiration for a pair in one of my own stories. Y'know, because I don't really see myself writing a SERIOUS fight between the two. I really just want lighthearted and comedic sort of bickering, especially on Poo's end (he has probably the most complex and confusing point of view towards Ness xd)

"Trash Talk"

Probably one of my favourite MOTHER comic shorts

Trash Talk by NelmaThyria - https://www.deviantart.com/nelmathyria/art/Trash-Talk-607288763

"To Swear by the Sharpened Edge" and "Post-Giygas - The Life of a Prince"

Some nice Poo-central fanfics that focus on his life in the palace and how he (kinda) ponders how he feels about royal life/values

To Swear by the Sharpened Edge - by ohsparky: https://starmen.net/vote/vote.php?id=21931

Post-Giygas - The Life of a Prince - by Gear: https://starmen.net/vote/vote.php?id=8731

Poo: "NESS OF ONETT!" "NESS OF ONETT!" "NESS OF ONEEETTTTT!"

This is what pre-deep-conversation Poo looks like xD

Basically how serious he is about the whole rivals thing ...meanwhile Ness's just vibing 

Dialogue: Poo's complaint

At this point in time, Poo's already been adventuring with the rest of the Chosen Four for a few days. He's already warmed up to the group, but he's still not used to Ness being Ness.

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POO: Maste-- I mean-- Ness of Onet-- *AHEM* NESS, I am making a formal complaint.

NESS: What'd I do?

POO: I do not like how you are treating me. You are teasing me like we are children playing in the field... Why?

NESS: Okay, first off, we're still kids. And also, you're freakin' serious all the time -- you're automatically going to get teased by me anyway!

POO: But Jeff is also serious, so I do not understand why I am your sole target.

NESS: Jeff? You can never get a good reaction out of him. You, on the other hand, got a temper.

POO: Oh, so I have a temper?! After so many years of meditation, I've learnt patience, self-control and inner peace!

NESS: (Retorting to himself, humorously) The heck's this guy talking about?

POO: IT IS TRUE

Fanfic: Who is this peasant?!

For a short series I've had in mind (titled: The 10 Stages of Befriending a Strange Eaglelandian Hero). Focuses on the growing friendship between Poo & Ness during their adventures. Basically, rivals to rivals but with a friendship bonus xd

Also, this first part is based off a comic I made.

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"Farewell, my prince! You are finally ready to meet the chosen hero."

These words from his master confirmed it. After years upon years of intensive training, Prince Poo, hier to the throne of Dalaam, was about to undergo the most important mission of his life. He would be assisting the chosen boy in saving the world. 

Just knowing today was the day was enough to send the young prince's heart racing. For a moment, even if only for a minute, it felt like only good things could happen to him today. For the first time, it no longer hurt him to remember his trials. He felt as if none of the girls from around the palace would come fawning over him ever again. Even feelings of loneliness and isolation that he felt in his private life seemed to have disappeared from his spirit. 

"Farewell, Master" the prince replied back.

He proceeded to channel his thoughts to perform PSI Teleportation. Then, in a gust of wind, he disappeared.

Today, Prince Poo would leave his kingdom. And for the first time in his life, he would taste foreign air.

***

Strong winds hit the town of Summers, and Poo appeared in a flash at the scene. The soft ground took him by surprise and the sloshing waves sang to his ears - he would be meeting the chosen hero at a beach. On instinct, the young prince knelt down in front of the first person he noticed, with his right hand over his heart. 

He was so dedicated to his mission that he dismissed any nearby voices that could be coming between him and his new master... he heard a nearby voice sigh some words in English -- something about a cake... 

Poo ignored this and proceeded with his greeting. "My name is Poo," he stated loudly, ignoring the confusion that responded back. "I am the one who will fight beside you. I am the servant of Ness. I will obey Ness. Ness!"

At last, Poo looked up to the mysterious boy that he knelt before... And the revelation of his identity struck the prince like lightning. 

Who?! This is  the Eaglelandian hero my master spoke of?! 

Ness was not a muscular, older boy with clear visual indicators of his glorious history -- the kind of warrior that Poo dreamt of his whole life. In comparison to all the passerbys that surrounded them, Ness was for sure dressed like a peasant. He was a little chubbier than your average well-fed Dalaamese child, and  - from hearing his earlier statement about some kind of strange cake - he just barely hit puberty. On top of that, Ness appeared to be younger than the prince by at least two years. This all came to a shock. 

But, Poo needed not to distract himself. No matter what he thought, this boy ...Ness... was the apparent saviour of the world, and he needed to do as his masters told him. 

"My life is in your hands," Poo concluded finally, albeit shakily.

From what it appeared, Ness seemed to be bewildered as well, except he was hiding it so terribly. A smile was frozen on his face. Then he uttered with a forced cheerfulness, "Okay!" 

That was it. 

Excuse me?! the prince thought. Poo tried his best not to interpret such a response as disrespect, but overwhelmed with the substance of the entire encounter, this was how he wanted to interpret it. He was feeling all kinds of feelings. Was it frustration? Denial? Embarrassment? He couldn't seem to place his finger on it. But for sure, he wanted something to blame.

After all those painful years of intensive training, this was the master Poo would be serving. And that master was none other than a child. This should be a mistake. There must have been a mistranslation, or anything of the sort. But alternatively... Would something like this really be all a mistake? Were the stars humiliating him? Perhaps all his superiors have been laughing at him the whole time since his departure. Perhaps this was his punishment for being born. 

No...! I must not overthink such things... That could never be the case. 

Poo took a deep breath and tried to promise that from this time on, he would not let his anxieties and emotions take over. He remembered his training. He remembered the wisdom he was taught since he was a child. He needed to make sure none of those years would go to waste. If Ness was the chosen boy, then Poo would need to overcome his doubts. The best the young prince could do was wait and see.