With the Lights Out

**With the Lights Out** is the sixth episode of the third season of TFAWPS. It is the fifty-eighth episode overall.

## Plot

Zack and Ted travel to the Galactic Federation to campaign for a seat on IMPA, despite the fear that they are in over their heads. Eggman Robotnik makes his presence known within S.E.C.R.E.T. while Pig King hopes to restart the Dark Order on his own.

## Synopsis

At the S.E.C.R.E.T. Headquarters, a group of agents walk down a long hallway, making their way to an elevator leading to the scientific research wing. Wario and Waluigi take point escorting Eggman Robotnik and President Space down the stairs to the massive monitoring room where large screens hang on the walls in a dark room. Several agents sit at the computer stations as Mario and Luigi stand in the middle of the room. Wario and Waluigi explain the purposes of the room to them, while Eggman carefully monitors the screens. President Space approaches Mario, who shakes his hand. Mario greets the President and Attorney General, who greet him in return. Eggman explains that he's just been taking his tour of the S.E.C.R.E.T. Headquarters, saying that Wario and Waluigi doing an excellent job. Mario chokes down his doubts and says that they are a couple of extraordinary agents, who have been through a lot. President Space tells Mario to explain to Eggman the purpose of this room. Mario explains that this is where S.E.C.R.E.T. monitors energy patterns in the universe, hoping to connect it to potential threats and neutralize them before things get any worse. Mario turns to President Space and sternly explains that this is how they were able to land the finishing blow on Genesect. President Space sternly tells Mario to continue on. Mario explains that they're using the room now to monitor the situation in the Second Quadrant in the aftermath of the attack, explaining that they've been monitoring some Waster activity in the west. Eggman walks up to the massive screen with Wario and Waluigi by his side. As he observes the screen, he kicks an agent out of the chair and takes a seat. He puts on his glasses and begins scrolling through the map. President Space asks if he's found something. Eggman replies that he's just getting familiar with the hardware. President Space replies that that's a smart thing to do. Mario says that his agents are perfectly capable of monitoring the energy. Eggman blankly says that he has no doubt of that.

President Space takes Mario aside and tells him not to make Eggman's job harder than it has to be and Mario replies that he'd like for the situation to be as painless as possible, but when President Space routinely ignores Mario's advice and input, it makes it harder. President Space tells him not to be so childish. Luigi then says the word "sir" prompting both Mario and President Space to answer. Luigi explains that the tour should get going as President Space has an important meeting later in the day. President Space claps his hands together and agrees, ushering Wario and Waluigi to continue the tour. Eggman then gets up and thanks Mario for graciously opening up his home to him, giving him a sly smile. As the group starts to leave, Mario looks annoyed at them. Luigi looks at Mario with a concerned look, when he happens to glance at the screen and notices an intense spike of cosmic energy from the Third Quadrant. Luigi immediately gets Mario's attention and throws the map up on the big screen. Eggman and President Space turn around as Eggman takes charge and puts everybody on high alert. He tells Luigi that he's done great work and apologizes to the other agents as the tour has unfortunately come to an end. Mario pulls President Space aside and says that they both know the foremost authority on the shards and says that if there was ever a time for TFAWPS and S.E.C.R.E.T. to work together, now would be the time. However, President Space cuts him off, sternly reminding him that it's forbidden and that Eggman Robotnik is more than capable of handling it himself.

Elsewhere, Agent Yellow marches up to Pig King's Castle, somewhat shy. He looks up at the massive structure, somewhat unsure of his actions. He composes himself and goes to knock on the door, only for weapons to emerge from the walls and roof. Agent Yellow puts his hands up and yells that it's only him and there's no reason for this type of response. Pig King tells Agent Yellow over the intercom that he knows how Agent Yellow feels about him, so he's being cautious. Agent Yellow tells Pig King to let him in, he just wants to talk, but Pig King isn't buying it. He says that he's planning something big, so if Agent Yellow is only here to waste his time, then he won't hesitate to throw him out personally. Agent Yellow asks why he doesn't have his pet robot do it. The perspective switches inside where Pig King takes a deep, almost regretful breath. He pushes the button and tells Agent Yellow that he can come in, but tells him that this better be good. Pig King opens the door and lowers the weapons. On the security monitor, Agent Yellow, with an annoyed and disgusted look on his face, heads inside.

Once inside the Castle, Agent Yellow sits on Pig King's couch as his host returns with some refreshments. Agent Yellow looks at him, open mouthed, almost surprised to see him be so cordial. Pig King places the tray down and looks at Agent Yellow, asking him what's with the face. Agent Yellow says that he just wasn't expecting refreshments. Pig King says, rather detached, that he doesn't have to eat them if he doesn't want them. Agent Yellow thinks for a second, and pops a finger sandwich into his mouth after smelling it. Pig King stands in the middle of the room and asks Agent Yellow what brings him by and Agent Yellow says that he just spoke with Zack. Pig King rolls his eyes and says that he bets Zack has forgotten all about him now that he has no more use for him. Agent Yellow says that, as a matter of fact, he was the one who suggested he visit him. Agent Yellow also tells Pig King not to take it seriously, as Zack seems to have forgotten about all of them, especially himself. Pig King concludes that Zack must want something if he sent Agent Yellow to him, but Agent Yellow corrects him saying that Zack doesn't want anything and that's why he's here. Pig King is surprised, but doesn't respond. Agent Yellow grabs another finger sandwich and points at Pig King's board, asking him what it is. Pig King looks at the board and explains that it was meant to be phase two of the plan that didn't involve him. Agent Yellow asks why he has it out and Pig King explains that he's going to finish the plan himself, his part at least. Agent Yellow says that he wants in and that he can talk to the other guys and see how many will join back, telling Pig King that he's not alone. Pig King is moved, even touched by this statement. Pig King then sits down next to Agent Yellow says that, despite their past differences, they'll get this done. Agent Yellow stands up, saying he'll get in touch with the others and see what he can do, asking if he'll be bringing Master Robot in on the plan. Pig King says that he'll handle it. Agent Yellow prepares to leave, but stops. Pig King asks him what's wrong and Agent Yellow says that he needs to use the bathroom. Pig King says that it's the last door on the right. As Agent Yellow walks towards the bathroom, he asks Pig King why everything is closed off downtown. Pig King says that CellPaco got out, asking Agent Yellow if anybody got hurt. Agent Yellow replies that there are no major injuries and there wasn't really a lot of damage. Pig King nods.

On the Galactic Federation, President Space sits in a large meeting hall filled with dignitaries from all planets within the First Quadrant. Each planet has the leader, an aide, and the military leader all with their own throne like chair in this chamber room. Behind President Space stands Eggman Robotnik and Knuckles. President Space furiously looks over his notes while Knuckles stands at attention and Eggman Robotnik appears uncharacteristically nervous. Eggman leans over to President Space and whispers that he believes he should be handling the situation at the mines personally, but President Space insists that he needs him here, as Attorney General Parr has just died and if Eggman appears absent at the meeting, it will make them all look weak and unsure of themselves. Eggman steps back and agrees. President Space, having seemingly ignored this comment, says that if the two agents Eggman sent are as capable as he says, then there should be no reason to worry. Knuckles asks if something is going on and both President Space and Eggman tell him that everything is fine and there's nothing for him to worry about, an answer which doesn't sit right with him. Knuckles scans the room, noticing the empty podiums and thrones for Planet Popstar. As Knuckles continues scanning, he notices Zack and Ted have entered the chambers. Upon looking around, Ted leans to Zack and says that this will never work. Zack tells him that it will work, saying that Fin-Land is more than qualified to sit amongst them. Ted says that he agrees, but admits that King Salamence has a point about Fin-Land's reputation, but Zack cuts him off, saying that it will work.

Before the meeting can officially begin, several of the generals and leader mingle with one another. Zack leans over to Ted and tells him that he's going to go make some friends and Ted says that he'll need more luck with that than getting a seat on IMPA. Zack actually laughs at this and jokingly tells him to "run along now." Ted smiles at him and nods and turns to the crowd. Off in a corner, he finds Pac-Man, Froakie, and Snoopy talking and joins them. Ted greets them, glad to see them and they reciprocate his warm introduction. Froakie asks Ted what they're doing here and Ted explains that Fin-Land is here to stake their claim to the open seat available for the Alliance. Pac-Man asks which one and reveals that the Sheikh Nation is rumored to pull out as well. Ted is surprised to hear this, but Snoopy reminds them that it's only rumors. Pac-Man doubts this, pointing out Goku, Yamcha, Tien, and Piccolo. Ted points to Piccolo and asks who that is and Froakie explains that he's the General of the Sheikh Army. He goes on to explain that the Planet Namek was destroyed during Genesect's attack and the Sheikh Nation took in all the survivors, integrating them like it wasn't a big deal. Snoopy replies that it was a controversial move. The four then overhear Zack laughing with a couple of dignitaries, including Princess Peach. Pac-Man points her out and says that she had a fall from grace. Ted replies that he's honestly disappointed with the pride in which Planet Simpson claimed their victory in the war, saying it was without honor. Froakie agrees, especially when they were the clear-cut good guys in the war. Pac-Man says that it just goes to show. Ted asks where Allister McCallister is and Snoopy explains that they have no idea, but it must be serious to keep him. Froakie returns the conversation back full circle, wishing Fin-Land luck with their appointment. Ted thanks him, but Pac-Man says he's not too sure they'd get it. Froakie says that it's more likely than they may think, as Knuckles has made out pretty well for himself despite coming from a Third Quadrant home. Pac-Man snorts in derision and tells them to look at him and how uncomfortable he looks. Pac-Man says that the only reason President Space gave him that job was to punish him, saying that you do whatever he tells you and then die. Snoopy tells Pac-Man to cut it out, but Pac-Man says that Mega Man wasn't from around here either and look what happened to him. Froakie looks very uneasy at that statement. Snoopy asks Pac-Man when he got so cynical, but Pac-Man just asks how Pac-Man isn't cynical. The lights in the chamber start to flicker, prompting Ted to depart as President Space calls the meeting to order.

On a colony belonging to Planet Simpson, several workers rush out of a cave as a mass of green and purple tinted smoke billows out of the entrance. The workers cough and gasp for air. The foreman tries to get his workers to safety as best as he can, when Allister McCallister arrives with a group of soldiers, Bart among them. McCallister marches through the hordes of choking workers with Bart and several other soldiers stepping over debris. McCallister approaches the foreman and asks him exactly what happened. The foreman admits that he wasn't present for the incident, prompting McCallister to scold him for his lack of leadership. The foreman apologizes to the General and McCallister tells him that the next apology he issues should be do his men. The foreman lets out a cough and Bart seems pleased with McCallister's strong stance on the situation. The foreman explains that his men were moving a new drill into a cavern and they must have hit an energy field because the next thing anybody knew, the drill was destroyed and the crew operating it were all killed. After that, he made his way down to the mine and helped get the rest of the workers out, but nobody has been down there since then. Suddenly, Wario and Waluigi arrive and start moving people aside. Waluigi tells everybody that this area is officially cordoned off on orders of S.E.C.R.E.T. and everyone is asked to gather their belongings and leave within the half hour. McCallister walks over to them and says that his is a Simpson Military matter, but Wario cuts him off, handing him an official document signed by Eggman Robotnik. McCallister reads the document and agrees to concede authority to S.E.C.R.E.T., complimenting Eggman's character and ability.

Wario and Waluigi walk over to the mine entrance and tell some workers to please step aside. They investigate the smoke and realize that it looks familiar. Wario asks Waluigi if they should bring the kid inside. Waluigi says that he knows more about what this could be than they do. Wario says that Eggman wouldn't like this and Waluigi says that he doesn't have to know. Waluigi then calls over to McCallister and asks if they can borrow his recruit, pointing specifically to Bart. McCallister agrees and as Bart asks for permission to leave, McCallister grants it, telling Bart to make him proud in there. As Bart, Wario, and Waluigi make their way through the stuffy and smoking tunnel, Wario leads the way with a flashlight while Waluigi uses a device to measure cosmic energy. Bart keeps his gun up, but Wario tells him to put it down, but Bart says that he'd honestly rather not, as he doesn't know what kind of creatures might be down here. He then asks Waluigi where they're going and Waluigi says that it looks like they need to keep following the tunnels and that should get them pretty close. Bart says they should mask up and they all put on gas masks. As they continue on, they enter an incredibly massive cave with several tunnels leading into different directions. The three are stunned to see this gigantic gorge spanning out to who knows where. Wario shines the flashlight throughout the crater and notices the remains of the drill about seventy meters away, pointing it out to the others. Bart looks at the damage and it eerily resembles the crashed S.E.C.R.E.T. ship that brought the three of them together in the first place.

The three investigate the damage and come to the same conclusion, where Bart officially confirms that there must be a shard somewhere in the mine and the guys must have drilled into an energy field. He becomes excited, unable to believe that they've just found a shard, but Waluigi clarifies that they haven't found it yet, but Bart says that at least now they can. Waluigi then begins looking around the wreckage with a very curious look on his face. Wario asks about McCallister but Bart becomes unsure. Wario says that they have to tell Zack, saying the he was promised a better life. Bart says that he hasn't spoken to Zack in months, but Wario insists that this is a sign for them to act. He points out that only the three of them know about this and they're the only ones who know what to look for. He also explains that Bart was the one that brought the two of them involved in the shards and says that with or without Bart, he's going for it. Waluigi says that he's in too. Wario continues on, saying that he's going to find Zack and tell him and if Bart doesn't want to, he can go back to his military life and do grunt work for the rest of his life, but Wario says that he's had enough of that for one life and it's time for a change. He says that he's going to tell McCallister that this area is now under S.E.C.R.E.T.'s watchful eye, specifically his own, and there are to be no Simpson soldiers allowed, save for Bart, if he chooses to join them. Bart says that he's in and says that he'll talk to Zack himself which Wario agrees is a good idea and suggests they get out of there. Wario and Bart leave the cave out back where they came, while Waluigi lingers a bit, staring at the drill. He then turns and follows the others outside. While walking back, Bart looks straight ahead with a conflicted expression on his face, the sound around him all drowned out as Wario and Waluigi speak with McCallister.

The Starcaster, now flying above the Land of Ooo, accepts a small ship landing on the receiving bay. Roy and G. Biv stand anxiously awaiting the ship's return while Paco sits behind them with an icepack on his head. Once the ship safely docks, Pink Panther and Wally step out and approach the Twins. Roy pessimistically raises an eyebrow while G. Biv optimistically raises his own, but Pink Panther and Wally shake their heads, much to the Twins' disappointment. Roy says that he's not surprised, but Pink Panther says that there's not much they can do and adds that flying the Starcaster above the Land of Ooo isn't exactly putting the public at ease. Roy rolls his eyes and says that he's tired of this and walks away, helping Paco out of the room. As they exit, Paco thanks them for trying. Wally says that he's going to check the systems to make sure they have enough juice to keep flying, while G. Biv asks Pink Panther if he's going to leave and Pink Panther, to his surprise, says that he's going to stick by their side and he won't run away from them. G. Biv smiles, grateful for the support.

At the IMPA meeting, President Space officially declares Planet Popstar expelled from the Alliance, as Zack and Ted listen on, Zack looking particularly nervous. Ted tells Zack to liven up as he's got a big speech coming up. Zack immediately tenses up and resumes his usual confident demeanor, telling Ted that he's fine, which Ted smiles at, knowing the truth. President Space says that the final two items on their agenda is a withdrawal and a request to join, suggesting they start with the withdrawal. Goku, Yamcha, Tien, and Piccolo all stand up, as Goku explains that the Sheikh Nation will no longer provide their services to IMPA, on the grounds that the situation in the Second Quadrant demanded all of their attention and nobody stepped up. He says that he is on a whole disappointed by their lack of action and no longer desires to be part of an alliance that doesn't live up to its name. Without waiting for any comment, Goku thanks them and leaves with his entourage. President Space barely responds, instead saying that it's time they moved on to their final order of business.

President Space reads over his notes and almost laughs upon reading out that Prince Zack of Fin-Land has a proposal. Zack stands up and approaches the center of the room, clearing his throat and looking around the chamber. Zack then looks directly at President Space and begins reading his speech by explaining Fin-Land's reputation as the foremost authority in the Third Quadrant and are seen as a light and guiding force towards the future, not dissimilar to the Galactic Federation and therefore it is time for the two to unite in the spirit of moving forward. President Space asks if Zack is aware that they've recently nominated Planet Simpson to IMPA, pointing out that they are also a Third Quadrant planet. Zack says, will full respect intended, that he believes that Planet Simpson, due to its close proximity to the First Quadrant, doesn't necessarily embody the ideals of the Quadrant as a whole and that Fin-Land is a better candidate for the people. Ted looks at Zack with a proud smile on his face. President Space says that the people of the Third Quadrant may not see it that way. Zack apologizes and clarifies that he's been speaking on behalf of the Third Quadrant and believes it'd probably be safer if he had somebody close at hand to speak confidently and accurately on such matters. President Space makes his decision, saying that he likes Zack's honesty and conviction and is impressed with all the points he's made, however, he informs Zack that Fin-Land doesn't meet the requirements to join IMPA, saying nothing of the fact that King Salamence himself doesn't seem to have any confidence in this endeavor. Zack is stunned to hear this. President Space says that the King sends a message that he is not serious about joining. He also says that while Fin-Land is impressive in its own right, the Land of Ooo is not and the fact that the two planets are joined at the hip excludes Fin-Land from qualifying, insisting that for the time being, Planet Simpson will act as the spokesman for the Third Quadrant on IMPA. President Space adjourns the meeting, leaving Ted disappointed and Zack deeply embarrassed. Zack says through the crowd of people that the Land of Ooo is an entirely separate entity and should be treated as such, but President Space rolls his eyes and grabs the microphone and says that the decision has already been made and tells Zack that he and his guard should leave. Zack once more tries to get his attention, but President Space ignores him as Zack stands in the middle of the room with rage and embarrassment written all over his face as he thinks on his father's words. Ted approaches him and says that they should get out of there. Zack says nothing, but leaves on Ted's request avoiding eye contact with the other dignitaries as the screen slowly fades to black.

Sometime later, around midnight, Mario waits in an abandoned warehouse in the industrial district of the Galactic Federation in the same disguise he had previously used to tail Dr. Robotnik. After some time, Knuckles enters the warehouse, and makes his way over to Mario. Knuckles apologizes for being late, as President Space just wouldn't let him go, but Mario says that it's all right. Knuckles shows Mario the file he took from Eggman's copies and says that it wasn't easy to keep it hidden. The two walk over to a loading dock and lean on it, looking over the file. Mario says that he doesn't believe the Dark Order was Dr. Robotnik's only affiliation, as it doesn't make sense that someone as smart as him would be with someone as dumb as the other members of the Dark Order. Knuckles agrees that it doesn't add up. Mario says that on top of all that, they've found a shard on Planet Simpson and Eggman saw fit to send "the double W's" out there. Knuckles asks if Mario thinks Eggman is aware of Ivo's affiliation with the Dark Order, but Mario says that it's impossible to know as, of all the confirmed members of the Dark Order, Ivo Robotnik is the one they know the least about, saying that even Eggman's own history is difficult to come by. Knuckles says that if anybody knows about the Dark Order, it's Sonic. Mario asks if he can get the file to him and Knuckles says that he'll try but he'll never be able to get away from President Space long enough to do so. Mario says that it's easy, all he has to do is tell President Space he's been hearing rumors of an assassination attempt on him or someone in his cabinet and then he'll let him leave, no questions asked, as President Space wouldn't want to be seen as weak or unfavorable. Mario then says that Mega Man would do it all the time. Knuckles agrees and makes Mario promise to just keep this between the two of them for now and Mario agrees as the two shake hands. Mario says that Knuckles is the perfect person for the job, being close to both S.E.C.R.E.T. and TFAWPS. He says that this whole operation lives or dies with him, especially if he gets caught. Knuckles tells Mario that he really knows how to take the pressure off and Mario quips that he used to be a masseuse.

Elsewhere on the Galactic Federation, at a late night café by the river, Eggman sits at a table with his cousin, Dr. Ivo Robotnik, while Space Corps soldiers stand guard just out of earshot. Ivo asks where he found it and Eggman explains that it was on a new Planet Simpson colony and that he's sent the two agents Ivo suggested to oversee the situation there. Ivo asks how Eggman is liking his new position and Eggman says that it takes him one step closer to the top spot, though the S.E.C.R.E.T. Director is not making things easy for him. Ivo says that he'll figure things out soon enough. Eggman then tells Ivo that he's gotten sloppy, as Mario has a file on him about three inches thick. Ivo asks Eggman if he can make it go away, but Eggman says that he can only do so much, as Mario has read that file and knows all he needs to know. Ivo corrects him and says that Mario can't do anything in any official capacity and lets out a cough. Eggman says that he'll do what he can, but tells his cousin that he needs to be more careful.

Ivo then says that he thinks "the pig" is finally heading back into the tunnels. Eggman nearly chokes on his coffee and asks Ivo if he's serious. Eggman adds that he's surprised he's still alive. Ivo confirms that he is in fact alive and the bug he's planted in the Castle confirms that he's interested in finding Subtron again. Eggman says that he never thought he'd see the day. Ivo explains that he wasn't so sure either, which is why he never said anything, but all signs seem to indicate that he'll be making a move soon. Eggman says that things are finally coming together. Ivo says that it's about time too, as they were running out of time. Eggman suggests that when Pig King makes his move, Ivo goes with him, but he says that he can't go. Ivo rolls up his sleeves and reveals scars from needles as well as discolored skin all throughout his upper arms. Eggman is saddened to see this, asking how bad it is, with Ivo saying that the doctors say that it's stage two, but that's only because they don't know what disease they're really dealing with, confirming that it is stage four, the same that killed their Uncle Mack. Eggman rubs his hands over his face and places his arm on Ivo's shoulder, saying that they'll pull him through this and they've got to get him into those tunnels. Ivo says that he knows and is doing all he can, saying that he's been using the bunker to research. Ivo says that he's got an idea that can send him into the tunnels, but says that it's only a preliminary idea, but Eggman says that they have to risk it. Ivo checks his watch and says that he's late for his next meeting and the two stand up and button their coats. They shake hands and promise to meet again soon as Ivo leaves. Eggman watches him walk along the river bank as he signals for his soldiers that it's time to leave.

On Fin-Land, Zack stands lone in the Cosmic Tunnel, though the hours of operation are long since over. He stands on the beautiful mossy stone walkway, seemingly suspended in midair. He looks at the cosmic energy that makes up the tunnel. He thinks back to the invasion of Fin-Land which led to Wave's demise when she fell through the Cosmic Tunnel. He finishes a beer and tosses the can into the energy where it promptly disappears. Zack stares into the cosmic energy for a while until the silence is broken by Agent Yellow's voice calling out to him. Zack turns towards to him and appears more confident, asking Agent Yellow what he wants now. Agent Yellow asks him what he's doing in the Tunnel at this time of night and Zack asks him the same thing. Agent Yellow says that he was just coming to see him. Zack asks whatever he would want and Agent Yellow says that he just wanted to say that he took his advice and spoke with Pig King and they've agreed to get the Dark Order back together. Zack purses his lips and rolls his eyes and asks him why he's telling him this and Agent Yellow explains that he just thought Zack should know, seeing how it was initially his idea. Zack, rather dismissively, thanks him for the message. Agent Yellow says that he'll let Zack go, but will let him know if he finds anything. Agent Yellow turns to leave while Zack bitterly looks in his direction. Zack calls out to him, saying that if they ever hope to find anything, he'll at least give them some advice and walks over to him. Agent Yellow thanks him for that and the two walk down the Cosmic Tunnel towards the Land of Ooo.

In his Castle, Pig King straightens out a massive television with wires coming out of it connected to several routers. Waluigi sits on his couch and tells Pig King that he thinks it's funny because at this time a few months ago, he was here keeping him prisoner and now they're working on the same scheme. Pig King says that he's not entirely sure Waluigi isn't some spy sent to smoke him out. Waluigi then stands up and begins taking off his shirt, prompting Pig King to turn to him and asks what he's doing. Waluigi says that he's showing him that he's not wearing a wire, but Pig King says that he's still not convinced. Waluigi says that Pig King has nothing to worry about, as he's been running schemes behind S.E.C.R.E.T.'s back for years. Suddenly, static appears on the TV as Pig King moves around some cables. Pig King moves back from his setup and asks if anybody can hear him. Waluigi tells Pig King to adjust some more wires and upon doing so, several of the static boxes clear, showing Wario at the Simpson Mining Colony. Wario asks if they can hear him and Waluigi confirms that they can read him loud and clear. Another square is all dark and Waluigi asks what's wrong with that one, but Bart whispers that he's there, he just can't get caught talking after hours. Bart says they're not allowed to have any communications inside the base, but McCallister is at a meeting with Princess Peach for a few hours so he took the risk. Pig King says that Agent Yellow is on his way back soon and once he is, they'll get started. Another square emits a loud screeching sound prompting Pig King, Wario, Waluigi, and Bart to scold the person on the other end.

On *The Rental*, Captain Cowboy apologizes for the feedback and resets his connection. As he does so, he quickly maneuvers the ship out of the way of incoming gunfire. It is revealed that he and the Wasters are engaged in a raid as they pillage a small planet for their score. From the phone, Pig King asks what that horrible noise is an Captain Cowboy explains that they've planned this meeting at an inopportune time for him. Captain Cowboy then grabs his Waster communicator and tells the others to cover him and he turns the ship around and flies out of reach of gunfire, while other Wasters yell after him. Captain Cowboy says that his connection is pretty spotty so make it quick.

Pig King promises him that it'll be done quickly and Waluigi informs him that Agent Yellow has arrived. Pig King tells Waluigi to let him in. Dr. Robotnik's call finally connects as he sits in a lavish office. Pig King greets him, as does everyone else on the call. Agent Yellow enters the Castle with Zack by his side, much to Pig King's surprise. Pig King walks up to him and greets him and Zack shakes his hand, jokingly telling Pig King that he's surprised he's still alive. Pig King invites Zack to come in and sit down, but Zack says that he'll only be a moment, he just came to offer some advice and then he'll be on his way. Agent Yellow, feeling ignored, slinks over to the couch and sits down next to Waluigi. Captain Cowboy frustratedly says that he's got other things to do and asks if they can get started. Agent Yellow asks where Master Robot is and Pig King explains that he's getting ready for phase two. Bart asks what phase two is and Pig King explains that phase two consists of two parts. He explains that in the outskirts of the Land of Ooo, there is something important that he needs to get and once they have it they can start phase three, but first they'll need a shard. Wario says that they're in luck because he, Waluigi, and Bart found one. Upon hearing this, Zack's ears perk up and he asks where he found it. Pig King smiles at this enthusiasm. Wario says that it's on one of Planet Simpson's colonies, which he has already taken under S.E.C.R.E.T.'s protection. Zack is pleased to hear this, telling him not to let anybody else near that site until the shard is found. Pig King continues on, saying that once they have these two things, they'll move on to phase three, but until then this is their priority. Captain Cowboy then screams at the other Wasters. Pig King says that Wario, Waluigi, and Bart will lead the mission to recover the shard while Pig King will personally head to the outskirts with a volunteer, of which they can decide amongst themselves. Agent Yellow looks over at Zack and Pig King. Zack moves over next to Pig King and says that he will make sure things go smoothly for them in the political world, hoping to maintain their cover. Pig King says that he'll fade any and all information and updates to Zack and Zack promises to do the same, making sure everybody stays in the loop. Zack congratulates Wario and Waluigi on their excellent work as the newest members and also Bart for bringing this to him first. Bart, from inside his barracks, says thank you but is clearly conflicted about this praise. Zack tells Captain Cowboy he'll be needing him shortly and to stay tuned, which Captain Cowboy promises to do so and then Zack tells him that he can hang up. Captain Cowboy hangs up, while Zack turns to Dr. Robotnik's screen and tells him to make his way to the Land of Ooo as soon as he's able, which Dr. Robotnik agrees to and hangs up. As he hangs up, he closes his laptop while an Egg-Robo disconnects a chemo treatment from his arm.

Pig King then tells Wario to keep that area locked down and tells Bart to try and get a position guarding the mine at all costs and Bart says he'll do his best. Bart and Wario both hang up and Waluigi tells Pig King and Zack that he should be getting back soon. Zack agrees, telling him that he's done good work. Before he leaves however, Pig King turns to Zack and asks if this means he's back in and Zack says that he is and he and Pig King officially reform the Dark Order. Agent Yellow asks Zack about his statement where he claimed to be done with the shards, but Zack says that he was wrong. Zack tells the three that he'll get the shard no matter what, he just needs one more thing. Pig King asks what that is and Zack turns to Pig King, Agent Yellow, and Waluigi and says that all he needs is a throne.

## Characters

* Ted
* Pink Panther
* Paco
* Roy
* G. Biv
* Wally
* Knuckles
* Mario
* Luigi
* Zack
* Pig King
* Agent Yellow
* Bart
* Wario
* Waluigi
* Ivo Robotnik
* Eggman Robotnik
* President Space
* Allister McCallister
* Princess Peach (no lines)
* Froakie
* Pac-Man
* Snoopy
* Goku
* Yamcha (no lines)
* Tien (no lines)
* Piccolo (first appearance, no lines)

## Trivia

* The title of this episode refers to all the secret deals made between the characters during the night throughout the episode. It also refers to the reformation of the Dark Order.
	+ The title is a reference to the Nirvana song "Smells Like Teen Spirit."
* This is the first episode of the series to focus entirely on the Dark Order, where TFAWPS are not the primary focus.