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Guardians of Balance [Pokemon Mystery Dungeon]

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Chapter XIX - Debriefing and Recovery
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    • POKÉMON MYSTERY DUNGEON
    GUARDIANS OF BALANCE

    ALWAYS AUDACITY
    CHAPTER XIX – DEBRIEFS AND RECOVERY    ​

    Broken Wood was gone.

    From Sam's view at the edge of the cliff, that was at least what I looked like to him. Parts of the Woods that had once dominated the area had now collapsed into a crater easily a mile across. It seemed like the earthquake didn't just destroy the dungeons, it took out the entire area. Trees remained, but they were now even more damaged than before, trunks often split in two and those that remained hanging in precarious places, often held in place by only a few roots on sheer cliffs. At the very bottom of the crater, Sam could just make out little pools of magma and every so often, the crack of crumbling rocks could be heard as they broke away from the still crumbling rock faces.

    A chill settling over him, Sam tightened his red jacket around his chest. Could Volcanion cause all this? He questioned, Or maybe he has pulled off the earthquakes before… no, that doesn't make any sense. He was powerful, but given we could slow him down… I doubt even he could cause all this… maybe it was just the same kind of earthquake that struck… err… what was that place called? Harbour Town?

    Even with the jacket, Sam couldn't help but shiver. Was… was that earthquake just as bad as this?

    "I was wondering where you were."

    Sam looked over his shoulder to find the white and blue form of Esper stepped up onto the mound, a concerned look on her face. "Are you alright?"

    The Scorbunny looked back towards the ruined woods and the crater. "Yeah… what about the others?"

    "They're all getting treated right now." Esper stated, "No one is seriously hurt physically anyway, though I suspect the mental pain will be around for a little more time. But it's nothing that we can't work through and help with."

    The Meowstic stepped up alongside him, hands behind her back as she inspected the scene before them. "I wanted to apologise."

    Sam's ears twitched as he turned to look round at her, "W-What about?"

    "About sending you into that dungeon." She closed her eyes, head bowing a little bit. "We had surveyed Broken Wood ahead of the trials. The conditions were comparable to other dungeons we have come across before that were still stable, even in the last one, and we believed we would be able to put one final group of recruits through it before sealing it off. As you saw, it still only needed an earthquake to cause as a cascade."

    Esper's eyes drifted open, "From what we know, all that remains is the second dungeon."

    "The first one is gone too?" Sam asked.

    "Yes. When the earthquake struck, it caused the ground beneath it to collapse. Nearly took out the second dungeon too if it wasn't for the volcanic rock there. But I doubt it'll be there for much longer now."

    Volcanic rock… Sam pondered, eyes flicking between the distant pools of lava and Esper, who had now turned towards him again. "Again Sam, I can only apologise."

    Sam shook his head, "No no. It's fine, really." He said, "I mean, you can't really predict when an earthquake is going to hit."

    A little smile forming on the feline's lips, she finally turned away from the scene. "Come then, we'd best leave this place."

    Nodding, he turned to follow her back down the slope. "Alice and Aidan informed me about the Pokémon you came across in the tunnels." Esper said, "Volcanion I believe?"

    "Y-yeah." Sam replied. "He just came out of the ground and attacked us, something about transgression or something like that?"

    She nodded herself, "Fairly typical behaviour to the sounds of it."

    The Scorbunny stiffened, "Wait… you know about Volcanion?!"

    "Only from myths."

    The Meowstic's gaze remained focused on the path, even as her voice became a little softer. "Volcanion is a mythical Pokémon with the ability to manipulate fire and water to produce steam. It is said to be powerful enough to level mountain ranges."

    Sam nearly froze on the spot, a cold sweat beginning to emerge. "W-Wait, you don't mean it caused t-"

    "I wouldn't worry too much." Esper said, "Even amongst the more powerful Legendaries of the world, there is some exaggeration of their capabilities. Even if they were powerful enough to do what they are said to be able to do, they tend to restrain themselves."

    "Didn't feel that restrained to me…" Sam mused.

    "Believe me, if Volcanion wanted to fully destroy you, then he certainly had the means to do it far more quickly. It takes a lot for them to unleash their full power like that."

    Still not quite comfortable with the answer, he could only focus his own footsteps. "Any idea why Volcanion would attack us then?"

    "I can't say for certain, as I don't know enough about Volcanion's history to even guess. He is a mythical Pokémon in a place we are only just beginning to understand. But given what you have said, I suspect that Volcanion might have been reacting to your presence on his territory, accidental or not."

    "A territory?"

    "Yes. Most Legendaries and, by extension Mythicals, often have a territory or domain of their own they rule over. They are all aspects in some form or another, and place a role in how this world functions and as such, they very rarely leave these locations for the sake of the security of those places and the balance of this world. If they did, there would either be a severe crisis… or something has piqued their interest."

    Sam felt the warmth of Esper's hand rest on his shoulder, "I doubt Volcanion will pursue you out here. But we will close off what is left of Broken Wood and leave sentries in place as a precaution. You have nothing to fear."

    Sam nodded, feeling a little more confident about Esper's words. "I have already spoken to Rex." She continued, "Given what has happened, we are going to bring all of you into the Guild."

    That finally perked him up, the Scorbunny turning to face her. "W-wait, really?"

    "Of course. Not everyone faces a legendary or mythical and lives to tell the tale, and given you were able to survive in the cave it only makes sense."

    Esper flashed a little smile, "We'll need to time to get a small initiation ceremony ready, especially whilst securing the ruins here. But that should give you time to yourselves and to recover. You've all been through a lot so suddenly."

    Rounding a rocky corner, they found a sizeable group of Pokémon waiting for them, almost of all them wearing some kind of team identifier. The exceptions naturally being the recruits he had accompanied. Alice, Aidan, Team Forest, Nia and Dan were all gathered round a small cart, beginning to climb into the back.

    "I do have to ask one thing though." Esper said.

    "Hmm?"

    Bringing herself to a stop, the feline looked towards him with a tilt of her head. "When you were down in the tunnels, did you come across anything strange? Anything that could be related to the earthquake itself or Volcanion?"

    Frowning, Sam's hand drifted across his mouth in thought. He focused on trying to look past the memory of Volcanion charging after him and the others… and back towards that Mural…

    "Yeah… there was some kind of mural down there…"

    "A mural?"

    "Yeah… it was made out of metal and had all these weird markings on it. No idea what any of it meant, I didn't really get a good look before Volcanion showed up."

    Esper narrowed her eyes in thought, "Well, marks and murals aren't exactly uncommon. Many such features exist in old ruins and archaeological sites. The mural could be important, but at the same time, it might just as likely be an old piece of artwork that had just happened to survive for that long."

    She shook her head, "Either way, I appreciate you bringing this up. I'll be sure to include it in my report. Perhaps someone at the Guild will have a better idea about this."

    Esper motioned with her hand towards the assembled recruits, "Come. We'll get you back to Robinswood." She headed back further the path towards the others, and Sam took the few steps after her. But then the memory yanked him to a halt. W-Wait! Of course! There was something else!

    Reaching into his jacket pocket, Sam pulled out the blue armband, complete with it's silver tear and cross. This was by the mural! He opened his mouth, ready to call back Esper…

    But then the new memory flushed back to the surface. "With the children's cries more desperate." Edward had said, "The Pokémon of the island didn't know how best to proceed, until a Lapras arrived on the shoreline, carrying two Pokémon on it's back. A Lucario and a Zoroark. The villagers who lived close to the cave didn't not recognise the newcomers, but they did know of the emblem they carried. A sharp cross, emboldened with a tear in front of it. According to the myths, they were known as Guardians."

    Sam blinked, the realisation hitting him with a jolt. Guardians! He realised; Edward talked about that myth! The emblem they mentioned. A tear and a cross! That means…

    He looked down at the armband, bearing the exact same symbol.

    It's the emblem of the Guardians!

    You watched from atop the cliff as Sam stuffed the armband into his pocket and scrambled to catch up with the others, a conflicted look on his face. For the most part, you were merely relieved that he had made out safely from that dark place. Whatever the reason, he was still in play.

    Ah… elected to be the hero hmm?

    That dark presence drifted by your side, and a quick glance revealed a black shadow drifting by your side. It was about time I met you face to face… this is not actually me by the way. Just an extension of my will. Did you think I wouldn't notice that little stunt?

    A chill ran through you at the presence's words. You can relax. I must say, I'm impressed you could actually slow Sam's descent. Whilst he would likely have been fine, he was getting perilously close to some of those rocks… that would be something even myself would struggle to achieve. At least with this shadow anyway.

    The chill faded as the presence seemed to lean forward, inspecting Sam leaping up into the cart. So… the mythical Volcanion. It has been some time since I have been aware of his existence. I had thought he had died centuries ago. And yet he lives… hmm… most curious. But even Volcanion couldn't destroy this place on his own. Not in this state. Something else is afoot. And that mural, a strange place for it to be, is it not?

    The shadow shifted, And these Guardians… that is a title I have not heard for a long time either… is there a link between these events? The disasters? Volcanion? Broken… Broken Wood, is it? And the Guardians… and a mural? Most curious. Perhaps it is all connected.

    Somehow, the form managed to pull a shrug. Alas, there are missing links to this. Perhaps they are indeed unrelated, at least from what little I know on Volcanion. To enter this place like this would risk the wrath of Volcanion, but I must investigate that mural. I have a feeling Sam will want to read into the subject matter.

    You turned towards the shadow. I imagined you would be curious. You are determined to look after our young fellow here… I will investigate this crater as best I can. You follow Sam as you always do, and perhaps he will find his way over to additional answers.

    In silence, the shadow drifted away, and you moved to follow the Pokémon as they departed.

    The journey back to Robinswood was uneventful, and frankly, that was all that really mattered to Sam and be extension, the others, he imagined. Most of the rescuers had elected to walk on back to town, leaving only a few others to watch over the now ruined area. But as for the rescued, the cart was a convenient change of pace. Dan and Nia were cuddled together inside a blanket, whilst Denver, Callum and Filip were likewise wrapped in their own sets. Aidan, Alice, Bruce, Edward and Sam himself were not. Namely because out of the lot of them, they were all in the best kind of shape. At least, that was Sam could guess any way. Bruce and Edward were sat down next to their teams, flashing looks of concern at their comrades and quietly working to talk to them. Edward was quiet and supportive, and it seemed to be bringing his Skorupi companion out of his shell. No pun intended. Bruce was a little more upbeat, if only barely, and it didn't seem to be having the same impact.

    Alice and Aidan stood at the edge of the cart; their eyes fixed on the ruins of Broken Wood behind them. From his position further to the front, Sam couldn't see their expressions. But he could easily imagine their dour looks. This is going to leave some scars… especially after going through all this so quickly…

    He reached into his jacket pocket, feeling the armband within… So quickly…

    The journey was at least far quicker, and soon enough, the cart, having been towed by a big Tauros, came to a halt by the giant guild tree, the sun now hanging lower in the sky and approaching the horizon. It wouldn't be much long until sunset came.

    Sam felt the metaphorical weight lift of his shoulders, that aura of safety now rushing into take its place. They were out of danger.

    Well, he knew he had mostly been out of danger the moment they came flying out of those tunnels. But he supposed that tension had still remained. Adrenaline still waiting to get burnt out, he guessed.

    Any remaining fears evaporated as they climbed off the cart to find none other than Rex and Emrys waiting for them. Rex stood tall, and yet showed a clear look of worry on his face. Emrys meanwhile, was wrapped up in a mix of bandages across their body and wings, clearly looking pained as they hobbled towards them. Sam's ears immediately sprung up. "Emrys! You made it!"

    That joy quickly shifted to concern, "Are… you okay?"

    Pulling the closest thing they could to a pained smile, Emrys bowed his head towards, twitching a little bit. "Nothing permanent, I'm already starting to feel better right now. But the main thing is you are safe."

    "You know this guy?" Bruce asked, dropping down from cart and walking over to the rabbit's side.

    "Emrys was the final test." Aidan explained with a little smirk, "And I guess it was based off a real event… although we didn't really get a chance to fight before that earthquake hit."

    There was a little gleam in Emrys eyes. "Very astute. I lived on Air Continent during the disasters… to say that it drove me… mad would be an understatement."

    "Let me guess." Alice said, arms crossed, "You ended up getting in the way of rescuers because your home was falling apart?"

    The Skarmory dipped their head again, "Indeed… I was still enraged after that team defeated me, but after the crisis and I saw what had happened… I later came back to apologise. That little Diglett found that quite heart-warming once I managed to talk sense into his Magnetmite friend…"

    The bird shook their head again with a wince as Rex crossed his arms, a little smile of his own forming. "Emrys insisted on searching for you in the air despite not officially being a rescuer, and wouldn't take no for an answer for at least passing the word back to me. And very few Pokémon can get past Esper like that."

    The Blaziken turned towards the recruits, his gaze holding for a moment on… Alice of all people. Sam's ear twitched at that, especially when his beak opened a touch before continuing his scan. "Either way, I'm glad to see you are all home and safe. Esper managed to send me a telepathic report, although the instability of the area has made it difficult to get said information to me that way until now. Given what you have all faced, we'll get you all enlisted in the Guild soon."

    A few smiles spread across the recruits at the words, some measure of relief after their experiences. "In the meantime, whilst we prepare and check things over accordingly, get some rest. All of you. It looks like you will definitely need it, especially if we need to discuss what happened in those dungeons. Especially you… Denver, right?"

    The Skorupi perked up, his bandaged legs shivering a little bit. "Y-Yeah!"

    Nodding with a relaxed smile, as if a little pleased with himself, the Guild master continued, "Go and get those legs checked out with Rebecca, she'll get you crawling around everywhere in no time."

    "Err – sure thing!" Denver said, with his Skiddo companion stepping up alongside him.

    "Come on." Edward said, "I'll help you there."

    Denver took a few shaky steps forward on his own, before promptly collapsing into the Skiddo's side, "Alright. Thanks."

    As the two departed across the square, Rex turned to Emrys. "Now, I insist you go and see Rebecca yourself."

    "Of course." They replied, bowing their head once more before moving to follow the others on foot.

    Rex turned to look over the group once more with a focused eye, again his gaze hovering a second longer over Alice… and then Sam. His heart missed a beat, worried that the Guild master would see some flaw or problem with the Scorbunny. But the gaze, likewise, only held for a second before he addressed the group. "Well, don't wait on my account. Go ahead, relax. If you need to talk to me, the door to my office is open to you. And I am certain the rest of the guild will assist you if you need it."

    With a final bow of his head, he turned and strode back into the base of the tree.

    A truly gigantic grin spread across Edward's face, his red eyes lighting up like a Christmas tree. "Hell yeah! We're going into the guild!"

    Alice rolled her eyes, "And immediately he goes into celebration mode." She mumbled, earning a glare from the Bulbasaur. "Oh come on! We made it out, didn't we? We should celebrate! Right guys?"

    He turned towards his teammates… and Sam could promptly see the joy vanish from his face. Callum and the now lucid Filip had backed away from the group. The Ducklett was slouched, whilst the Yanma seemed to be trying his best to look away. "Yeah… err… Bruce…" Callum started, struggling to find his words, "Me and Filip have talked about this and… well… I don't really know how to put this-"

    "We don't want to join the Guild." Filip buzzed quietly, still keeping his eyes pointed away.

    Bruce blinked, shaking his head rapidly. "Y-You can't be thinking of that! We made it through in the end right! We all agreed to give it a try!"

    "Yeah. We did." Filip said.

    "And we nearly died down there!" Callum added, "That was just a bit of training, how are we going to fare with other missions!"

    Alice narrowed her eyes, "We had no idea that would happen. Saying no to everything on one bad thing is a bit stupid."

    "I wouldn't put it like that." Aidan said, "But going through all that effort to just give up? You've got no idea what you are missing out on."

    Callum's eyes narrowed, "And constantly being at risk of dying?! Sorry. That was too much of a wakeup call."

    "If you came into this not expecting to throw yourself into danger…" Alice said, "Then you haven't thought this through."

    "Not as much as we thought." Filip said. "Either way, we're out."

    "Come on guys." Bruce said, voice shaky and looking limp. "We tried so hard to get here… we can't just quit now. If you leave… I can't join either… we always planned on this as Team Forest… remember?"

    The Yanma turned away again, and Callum seemed to hesitate, as if debating wherever or not leaving was the right move or not. But with a final sigh, he shook his head. "Sorry Bruce… I'm sure you can find someone who will take you in but… we can't."

    "G-Guys!" Bruce called out, but it was too late, the two former recruits swiftly walked into the town.

    Sam felt his chest tighten as he watched the two depart. His eyes flicking between them and the quivering Bulbasaur, now bowing his head down. A part of him felt immediately sorry for Bruce. So committed to bring himself and his team through to the Guild… and yet his team lost their spirit. Unwilling to put their lives on the line after all that danger… on one hand, he couldn't blame them for leaving. But at the same time, they are leaving poor Bruce to dry…

    Of course, you have to join the Guild as part of a team, or not at all… maybe Rex can bend the rules on this occasion and… I don't know. Maybe we could ask for him to join our team? It'll give him a chance t-

    "Hey Bruce… if you want to, you can join our team."

    The Scorbunny blinked to attention. Nia had emerged from the blanket and was now standing next to Bruce. The reptile's head lifted just a touch; his voice shaky. "Are… are you sure?"

    "Yeah!" Nia exclaimed cheerfully, "I know how much it means to you to be on a team! We'd happily take you on! The more the merrier!"

    Sam felt a smile form on his lips as a few tears formed in Bruce's eyes, the grass-type lifting himself. "T-Thanks Nia! And you too Dan!"

    Dan looked comical with that big blanket wrapped around him in such a way to leave only his head in view. "Err… yeah! Sure! It was mainly Nia's idea but I'm fine with it!"

    Bruce let loose a massive grin. "Heh- thanks! Same with you Al-"

    The smile faded, the realisation kicking in as he turned to face Alice. The Buneary kept her arms crossed, a slight frown sketched across her face but otherwise, her expression was neutral. If anything, she looked more concerned than annoyed.

    Bruce grimaced at first, trying to work out his response before he opened his mouth.

    And then promptly closed it, as if changing his mind at the last second. He opened it again and just as swiftly shut it. This time, he hesitated for two seconds before finally opening his mouth again. "Look… I suppose-"

    "You don't need to ask." Alice interrupted him, "I'll leave the team."

    Everyone's eyes locked onto Alice. Wait… what!? Now you want to leave?!

    This was too much of a surprise for Sam, Alice didn't seem like the type to just bow out of something like this.

    Aidan reacted first. "Holy shit. I wasn't expecting this…"

    "A-Alice! You've been a big help!" Nia cried out, eyes widening in shock. "We'd be happy for you stay on! Right, everyone?"

    Bruce once again looked hesitant, his nose wrinkling. Dan meanwhile seemed to shrink a little bit deeper into that blanket of his.

    Alice didn't wait, shrugging without any signs of malice. "It's obvious. You don't entirely trust me, even you Nia."

    Bruce finally spoke again, "I've got to admit… you aren't as bad as I thought… I mean, there was the camp… I just… I don't really know what to think."

    Dan shivered. "Sorry. But you kinda… err…"

    "Scare you?"

    The Morpeko hesitated, before finally nodding, shrinking deeper into the blanket. "Y-Yeah…"

    Nia shook her head, "But… we can work through that!"

    "Rescue teams need to trust each other entirely." Alice said, not even angry or disappointed as she shook her head. "If you can't trust me now, you never will. And that could get someone killed."

    Uncrossing her arms, she turned away from the others. Come on Alice… you don't have to force yourself out like this. It's no better than beating yourself up!

    Sam straightened himself up, taking a breath in. Alright, here goes nothing.

    "Alice, you c-"

    "Don't bother." Alice said, "Aidan will never have me around either. Same with Denver."

    He glanced over at his Froakie friend; the blue frog had been rubbing his head with a grimace before stiffening as the group's gaze shifted onto him. But he didn't hesitate, swiftly shaking his head. "No. I don't trust her."

    His heart sank like a stone, Aidan…

    Alice merely shrugged again, "Then I won't keep you. Good luck working at the Guild."

    And with that, the Buneary strode away into the Guild Tree, leaving the others behind.

    Sam felt a cold pang in his chest. Barely able to process this decision. The logic? Maybe he could see that. But at the same time… just calling quits because of a little bit of distrust felt… overkill… even Bruce seemed ready to try and shove that aside?

    Alice… what made you start thinking this way?

    "Well." Aidan started, bring himself forward. "You heard what Rex said. We need to go and get some rest. Don't think too much about this, alright?"

    Bruce, Nia and Dan all looked between themselves, all of them seeming to shrink. The exhaustion now finally beginning to settle in to each of them. "Yeah." Bruce uttered. "I could sleep for a thousand years after today…"

    "Same here…" Dan replied.

    Nia didn't reply at first, eyes focused onto where Alice had entered. She held them there for a few seconds, before finally with a sigh she nodded. "O-Okay…"

    Sam started to open his mouth, a flare of heat burning through his chest. None of this seemed right. Callum and Filip running off was one thing. Unkind but understandable. Driving someone off? Even unintendedly? He struggled to restrain himself from snapping.

    But the group was already beginning to scatter, and Sam, unwilling to escalate this mess, clicked his mouth shut.

    He turned towards Aidan, "What's your plan now Aidan?" Sam asked, "Anything you need to check out and-"

    What was left of the anger quickly faded away as he found the Froakie cradling his head in his hands, eyes squeezed shut. "Aidan!" Sam exclaimed, focusing his full attention on his companion and placing a hand on his shoulder, "You alright?"

    Groaning, Aidan nodded slowly back. "I'm fine…" he uttered, "This headache just doesn't know when to quit! I think I must have hit my head on the way down that pit."

    "Come on then." Sam said, beginning to tug him a little bit. "Let's go and get it checked out."

    "And take Rebecca's attention away from the others – and get her hooves up my behind too? No thanks."

    The memory of the Rapidash screaming in his face sent a shiver running up his spine, and in a desperate attempt to hide any inevitable flash of fear, he quickly let free a chuckle. "I get what you mean."

    His eyes flickering open, Aidan pulled a tiny grin, "It's not any worse than a Psyduck's anyway. I'll just get some health juice or something later to clear my head. A nap would do some good too."

    Aidan's grin grew bigger, "In that case, I'm going to head back to the barracks and get my head on a pillow. A nap wouldn't hurt you either."

    Sam was about to agree, but his mind shifted back towards the tunnels… and the armband that remained in his pocket. This isn't something I can just sleep on. If the Guardians actually existed, I need to try and find some information on them… and looking for some extra information on the world certainly couldn't hurt. Maybe I could ask Edward? Nah, he'll be busy with Denver… so perhaps… yeah, that could work…

    "I'm actually going to do some reading up." Sam declared, "Is there a library here I can check out?"

    "Ah, the intellectual type then?" Aidan mused, "Well, there is one in the Guild tree, if it helps."

    Sam rubbed his hands together, "Great. I'll check it out."

    The Froakie seemed about ready to ask another question, but then an invisible force settled back into the Scorbunny's partner. The grin flipped upside down as a hand cradled Aidan's head again. "Right… I'm outta here then. I'll see you later."

    "Sure you don't need a hand back to the barracks?"

    "I'm not a Psyduck." Aidan countered with a hint of warm sarcasm, "I can hobble back home dear nurse."

    "Okay okay." Sam replied hurriedly, "No worries then. Take it easy Aidan."

    "Yeah, you too."

    Aidan back to half hop, half hobble back towards their barracks, leaving Sam on his own once more. He took a deep breath, Alright. Let's go and check out some books.

    Turning away, Sam strode on into the Guild Tree.

    To say that the inside of the Guild tree was quite the sight was a massive understatement. Sam had expected tight corridors cut through the bark and the trunk, complete with tiny chambers. Something that would be deeply cluster phobic.

    What he didn't expect a room so massive, that he could barely see the ceiling far above his head at the end of the entrance. He let out a gasp, gazing at a beam of light shining down from above and through a series of what appeared to be rounded balconies that ringed the inner walls of the tree itself. At the bottom floor, where Sam himself stood, had three major features amidst the half a dozen Pokémon walking through the space. On his flanks, large open passageways beckoned and led onto to ramps that climbed or descended to other floors. Flanking the far walls, he could make out what appeared to be elevators, bypassing the ramps leading elsewhere. Finally, at the very centre of the room was a large round desk, a trio of Pokémon manning it and shifting through files…

    All of them Meowth, he recognised. And yet, they looked very different from each other. The one in the centre he was familiar with, it's cream fur and golden coin on his head pretty distinctive. The other two less so, the one on the left was covered in blue-grey fur and the one on the right had a shaggy, grey-brown coat with a borderline black coin instead of the normal gold. Different variants? He guessed.

    Walking across the stone floor, he approached the Meowth at the desk. "Hey there." He said, "I'm looking for the library, can you guys point me in the right direction?"

    The cream Meowth lowered the file he was looking over, eying the Scorbunny now standing the desk's edge. "Huh, the studious Pokémon, eh? I've not really seen you round before kid."

    Sam frowned, "I'm not a kid."

    "Eh, you've got that young'un look. That's all I'm saying."

    He poked over his shoulder towards the elevators. "Head up to the eighth floor. The 'hole library is there."

    "Right, thanks."

    Sam walked round towards the elevator. It was made entirely out of wood, and came complete with a sliding wooden railing to stop someone from falling off. It was operated by a single lever, and with quick lift of it, the wooden contraption swiftly but gently rose upwards. Okay… I've gotta admit this is pretty ingenious.

    The ascent up to the eight floor took little more than a minute, and the Scorbunny stepped off to once more gasp. Bookshelves stretched for an easy eight metres above his head, all arranged round a donut shaped space with a handful of small offshoots to the sides, cut deeper into the tree wall. There were a few Pokémon scattered around the library, but it didn't take long for him to find an Oranguru at a central desk. The chief librarian, judging by the number of books that surrounded him. A fact that Henry proceeded to confirm when Sam spoke to him.

    The orangutan frowned, "I don't have anything about Guardians here."

    Sam blinked, "Really?" he asked, glancing around the vast space, "Seems like a pretty big library."

    Henry chuckled, "Big for the Sea of Wonders? By far and away. But there are libraries back on the other continents which are much bigger than this, and they have far more specific books."

    "So those ones could have some information on them?"

    "Perhaps… but there is so little to be said about the Guardians. What is known has often been passed down orally and I believe only one such book detailing even minor details existed, and that was lost some time ago."

    Sam rubbed the back of his head, "Do you know much about those oral stories yourself?"

    "No." Henry replied, shaking his head. "I do not. I did speak to someone who knew of a simple tale, a young Skiddo, Edward, his name was, I think. And that was just something he had heard of as a child."

    Well, bugger to that plan. There really isn't that much information on the Guardians at all? Well, unless that book is magicked out of nowhere, I think that is about as far as I'm going to get.

    "You might find a reference to guardians of some form or another in one of the other books we have." Henry advised.

    Sam's ears perked up at the suggestion, "That could work…". He pondered what kind of details he could read. Something that could better introduce him to this world…

    "Anything history or geography related?" Sam asked, "Like an overview of the world or that? I just want to… brush up on some details."

    A warm smile spread across the librarian's face as he clicked his fingers, "Luckily for you, I have an ideal starting point."

    Within minutes, Sam was seated at a table ideally sized for himself. Someone had obviously been sat here just before he was, noting by the stack of books placed to one side.

    He nearly choked however when he flicked open the cover to find the pages covered in scribbles. Weird symbols and shapes to be precise. In that moment, it became all too clear that Sam hadn't thought of one key detail…

    I… I'm not sure if I can read…

    Over the course of fifteen minutes, Sam would flick through the pages of the book, focusing his efforts on the diagrams, charts and maps that filled its pages. But with all unintelligible characters written across the page, he had no idea what any of it meant.

    I mean… what the heck is this supposed to mean? He pondered, This circle with the two bent lines out to the side… I mean, this looks kinda like an N for some reason, but how could that-

    Sam stiffened, immediately scanning over the characters on the text. That's an A… an I here…

    He pressed his forehead into his hands, a faint ache running through his head… what was this? A memory? Or did some skill just turn back on in his head? He started reading through the characters again, and little by little, it started to make sense. He looked up towards the stack of books to one side, the titles now clear for him to read such as 'Rescue Teams of Air Continent', 'Explorers of Time, Darkness and Sky', 'Gates to Infinity' and 'The Dark Matter Crisis.'

    Curious titles. He figured, and with that settled, Sam flicked towards the back of the original book now revealed as the Atlas of the Pokémon World, and flicked through to the curiously titled section, Age of Discovery. Reading further…

    'After the Dark Matter Crisis, there was increasing support amongst the Pokémon of the world to come closer together than ever before. Individual towns and villages across the main continents of the world began to establish closer ties with each to the point that they were now economically and culturally aligned, aswell as being dependent on one another, leading to the emergence of a new entity in the Pokémon world. The nation. With the re-founding of Baram Town as Baram City on the Air Continent, this new type of society quick spread across the world. Sahra and Lively Cities followed only a few short months after that, and Capim and Noe Cities the following year. Each one becoming the capital of a new continental nation.'

    Sam cupped his chin in his hand as he read on through, Huh. I'll need to read up some stuff on this Dark Matter Crisis later. But I guess just a few years ago most of the towns and villages were just that, little communities doing their own thing. I guess this Crisis was a big enough deal for them to come together.

    He read on, 'However, attempts to unite the continents would ultimately fail. A combination of managing trade between each continent, the cultural differences between each country and finally, the rise of continentalism would prove decisive, leading to the five continents of Air, Grass, Mist, Water and Sand becoming competitors. Alliances would emerge from this however, between the Eastern and Western Continents. Air and Sand Continents had always been rivals, especially with the latter's more directly intrusive policies. Air enjoyed a new industrial and resources advantage, whilst Sand was able to compete with its own advances in technology. Grass, which had in the past been significantly settled by Pokémon from Air Continent, gradually became an ally to the increasingly strong Air, whilst the isolationist Mist, a rival to Grass, began to partner and work more closely with Sand in the process. Only Water Continent elected to remain neutral, working to try and mediate the differences between the opposing sides.'

    'Roughly eighteen months after the Dark Matter crisis, it had become apparent that the islands of the otherwise uninhabited Sea of Wonders began to rise, becoming far larger and exposing new lands to discover and explore. This triggered an exploration race between the nations, only tempered by an agreement between Air and Water continents before Grass joined the partnership. Eventually, Sand and Mist would sign in. With this deal, the continental governments agreed to launch a joint expedition to the Sea of Wonders and run a shared administration within the region. A little town in the process of expansion and relocation by the native Corviknight and Talonflame known as Robinswood, would ultimately become the main hub for explorers and settlers from all five continents, as per an agreement with the settlers of the town. However, the competition between the nations continues to this day, especially as more islands rise and other explorers head out into the seas to try and find other potential lands in the Far West and East, or the North and South.'

    Sam leaned back into his chair, An Age of Discovery huh? I don't know but that sounds…

    He frowned, Familiar for some reason… either way, it doesn't sound like it's all sunshine and rainbows. So Robinswood is quite literally the frontier. Let's just hope this doesn't blow out of proportion. The fact they can agree on something helps at least…

    Fingering the paper, he began to flick back the pages, whilst also reaching for the stack of books left behind. If these are what I think they are… they should help offer a bit more insight! Maybe they might have a reference to Guardians in here to-

    "Ah! Found you!"

    The Scorbunny nearly leapt out of his seat at the sight of Aidan hopping over to him, eyes wide. "Ge- Aidan! What are you doing here?!" Sam hissed, more surprised than angry, "I thought you were getting a nap!"

    "I was!" Aidan replied, panting as he came to a halt. "I just… heard something important was going on that I need to check out."

    Sam dipped one ear, "What do you mean Aidan? What's so important?"

    The Froakie opened his mouth, but his eyes suddenly widened and he quickly shook his head. "I… I can't say here."

    "You can't? Why not?" Sam's frown deepened, "I mean, it's just us two over here-"

    "No." Aidan snapped, eyes narrowing for a second. "I really can't talk about it here." His gaze flicked round left and right, "It'd… be easier to explain if I just show you. I kinda wanted to show you this anyway. Just not so soon."

    Sam narrowed his own gaze, "That… isn't a lot of information to work on."

    "Look… I just need you to trust me on this. You trust me, right?"

    Sam looked over the Froakie, fidgeting on the spot in front of him. Aidan's fingers were interlocked and rubbing against each other, and his eyes still flicked from left to right. The Scorbunny felt himself slump, Geez… Aidan isn't someone who would get nervous like this… well, he's been helped me out so much… it only makes sense that I help him out here.

    Closing the book, Sam rose to his feet. "Alright then Aidan. Lead the way."

    Aidan's eyes brightened immediately, "Brilliant! Come on then, I'll explain everything once we're out of here."

    As the two Pokémon hurried towards the elevators, one of the books on one of the bookshelves shifted to one side, a pair of eyes watching them from the shadows…

    Well, this took alot of time to write, but it is done! Unless it turns out that more are needed, there are now five more Chapters to go for the first episode! Chapter XX is going to very likely be a big one. So despite my efforts, that Chapter could take time. But I will be focusing my efforts on completing that chapter! Either way, enjoy the little bit of development and lore here! And the build up for Chapter XX.
     
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  • Threadmarks
    • Hm... Sounds like a pretty nice historical evolution to Super. I'm very much enjoying this...
    ...and goddammit, you tease, poor guy keeps missing on there being other former humans in this setting! Although that reminds me, I'm wondering how mister special from Gates will be handled. AKA the one protagonist with the specific power to hop between worlds at will.
     
    ott043 said:
    Is this meant to be doesnt mean its not dangerous? Otherwise this feels a bit redundant.
    Click to expand...
    Click to shrink...

    ott043 said:
    No one quite knows how?
    Click to expand...
    Click to shrink...

    They might be typos. I think I actually went ahead and cleared those up, but I'll be going ahead to double check that and clear up those typos.

    Zowo said:
    Ah, volcanoes related mythical and legendary Pokémon
    Keen followers of "kill now, questions later."
    Click to expand...
    Click to shrink...

    As is tradition, naturally. ;p

    JBcristal said:
    You'll have to forgive their nature, they're rather hot-headed. :p
    Click to expand...
    Click to shrink...

    Quite literally boiling over.

    JBcristal said:
    Hm... Sounds like a pretty nice historical evolution to Super. I'm very much enjoying this...
    ...and goddammit, you tease, poor guy keeps missing on there being other former humans in this setting! Although that reminds me, I'm wondering how mister special from Gates will be handled. AKA the one protagonist with the specific power to hop between worlds at will.
    Click to expand...
    Click to shrink...

    Thanks!

    Can't let him start working out where those other humans are just yet! Still, poor chap.
     
    Chapter XX - Dark Truth
  • Threadmarks
    • POKÉMON MYSTERY DUNGEON
    GUARDIANS OF BALANCE

    ALWAYS AUDACITY
    CHAPTER XX – DARK TRUTH    ​

    The sun was already dipping below the horizon as Aidan led the way out of the Guild tree, leaving the sky a smudgy orange that had started shrouding the entire town in darkness. Few Pokémon remained in the square, and those few remaining were already closing up their shops or making their way into their cabins and homes.

    Aidan hopped along at a rapid pace, even faster than Alice had been within the tunnels under Broken Wood, and Sam scrambled to run after the Froakie. "Whoa Aidan!" Sam barked, "Slow down will you?!"

    "Quiet down!" Aidan countered, pushing down on of the paths leading into the trees. "Just try and keep up!"

    "I'm certainly trying to!"

    They pushed down the path, and with Aidan's speed, they had soon cleared the outskirts of Robinswood. His partner pushed onwards, heading towards the south, Sam realised. What the heck is Aidan up to?

    Bringing himself to a halt, Aidan snapped his gaze all around them, his eyes searching the trees for any signs of movement and likewise with the path. Sam had to wonder what on earth he was so worried about. But before he could either fully consider that, Aidan pounced off the path and into the trees. Mind racing, Sam leapt in behind him, struggling to follow the frog as he stumbled over thick roots and around the trees. "Aidan! Where the hell are you going?"

    "Almost there…" Aidan replied from ahead, with a final bound, landed with a small clearing within the forest. Sam panted as he stepped into the clear. His heart pounded, taken aback by how fast Aidan could move if push came to shove.

    The Froakie scanned the space one more time, before finally letting out a sigh and turning towards Sam. "Sorry for that." He explained, letting out a little puff of air. As if on cue, the orange sky faded away into a dark blue as night finally settled above his head. "I just had to get us away from the town first. This isn't something I wanted to risk anyone hearing back in town."

    Straightening up, Sam pulled a deep frown. "Must be pretty serious if you wanted us to get away from Robinswood." He grumbled, crossing his arms. "Alright Aidan, what's all this about?".

    Aidan looked over the Scorbunny, the two small bubbles on his nose twitching a little bit as part of his scan. "I guess I owe you an explanation." He turned away, his gaze seeming to pierce the trees towards the south west. "The thing is… there is another job I do."

    "Another job?" Sam questioned, leaning forward an inch. "What kind of job is so serious you have to be outside of town to actually talk about it?"

    Aidan closed his eyes, taking in a deep breath as if preparing himself for what was to come. Or maybe he was trying to convince himself to stop at the last second. But regardless of what was buzzing about in his head, he nodded to himself and turned back towards Sam.

    "I'll get straight to the point. I'm a smuggler."

    Sam blinked, his heart missing a beat as the word pounded against his chest. A lump forming in his float, he slowly began to shake his head. "You're pulling my leg, right?" he questioned, his brow furrowing. "You can't be some kind of crook!"

    Aidan shook his head, "Sorry Sam." He said blankly, "But I am a smuggler. I handle some of the goods that come into the Sea of Wonders."

    He bowed his head a little bit, almost as if accepting judgement. Sam's head continued to shake, struggling to come to terms with this. A smuggler… so bringing in illegal goods? I don't know how trade and all that works in this world… but damn it… why is it… no! Aidan can't be one!

    But as his partner patiently waited for his response, standing at the other side of the clearing with his head hanging, his doubts began to fade away… he knew how serious Aidan could get on key issues… and Aidan had been so open with him before about things

    He… is he actually… but… if he actually is… then what is he actually-

    Sam bared his buckteeth, "Why the hell are you doing this!? What stuff are you bringing in!? Weapons!? Or something worse!? People?!"

    Aidan's eyes widened, both hands snapping forward and waving hurriedly back at him. "No no! Not like that!"

    "Then what are you bringing in!?" Sam snapped, taking a step forward. "What are you bringing in that is illegal!?"

    "Medicines!"

    He took a step forward, only to stop dead in his tracks at the words. "M-Medicines?"

    Aidan tilted his head, eyes flicking up to the night sky. "Well, not just that. I sometimes bring in rare foods and items amongst other things, but medicines are one big thing."

    "And what? You get a little bit of profit off that?"

    "Only a little bit. My prices a lot cheaper than the other smugglers who came here. They tried to rip everyone off."

    Sam growled, "And that's supposed to make things seem better?"

    "Because if I wasn't here, people in the islands who need critical supplies will end up suffering!" Aidan snapped, fists clenched, "But certain idiots would rather keep this stuff stuck in their coffers back home. How else are folks are going to get it?"

    Sam opened his mouth to reply, but the words faded away just as quickly as his anger. "W-What? This stuff is being horded away?"

    "In a way, yeah."

    Sam frowned, he wanted to snap at Aidan. Smuggling was a crime; he was sure of it. And yet, if something fishy was going on…

    "Alright." He started with a sigh, shaking his arms loose. "Tell me about this from the beginning."

    Aidan hopped over to one of the trees… and incredibly managed to push himself up onto his hind legs. They quivered as he managed to lean against the tree, wincing as he did so. Sam bite his lip, "Aidan… are you sure you can do that?"

    The Froakie pulled a thin grimace, "Yeah, I'll be fine… just… strengthening my legs."

    Gulping, he continued, "Well… remember that I mentioned that I came from Sand, and my family was rich?"

    "Yeah." Sam said, crossing his arms, "You decided to leave for Robinswood right?"

    "That was part of it." Aidan admitted, eyes closed, "I was originally going to join the family trade business. Hell, I was already volunteering in it. But that's when I started looking deeper on the actual goods being traded and regulated."

    "Assume I'm an idiot when it comes to all this." Sam said, "I know there is a lot more trade today compared to even a few years ago."

    "You are right there. You've seen some of the items that are traded. We're talking food, clothing, orbs and medicines. Frankly there is a lot. Now, as part of all the trade agreements, some goods are regulated or banned."

    "Like what?" Sam asked.

    Aidan shook his head, "There are too many to list, but whilst there are some items which definitely deserve to stay on that list, but as I started working… I noticed some of them shouldn't have even been on there at all. I mean, I'm talking about special medicines that can alleviate headaches, viruses or other illnesses. There are rare fruits that can help improve health. Rare books that can help teach Pokémon how to reinforce their homes or learn new skills."

    "Okay, then why would that be a problem?" Sam questioned, his ears tilting forward as his curiosity began to build up.

    The Froakie nearly spat his reply out, "Bureaucratic bullshit. They say that the items in question are outdated, too dangerous or not as effective as the stuff otherwise available. The truth is, many of the guys in charge either don't want those products cutting into their bottom line, or they are hording that stuff for themselves and stopping the folks who actually need it from getting it."

    He opened his eyes again, "With all the restrictions on the continents, that only incentivised the worst kind of smugglers to go on crime sprees and sell of those goods at insane prices, and people are going out of the way to ruin themselves out of Poke to get them. When I tried to tell my father about all this, along with the other leaders back on Sand…"

    Sam caught a glimpse of Aidan's arm quivering, his hand squeezed tight enough it was going whiter than normal. "I was laughed out, and on top of already being seen as that 'weird' family member, my reputation in Sand only got ruined even further."

    "You… you were treated badly back home?" Sam asked back, the desire to reach out and pat his partner's shoulder growing.

    With a nod, he continued, "I was kinda shoved around as a kid. I wasn't slated to take over the company, and I was different enough that most folks didn't want much to do with me. After everything, I just had enough. When I tried to set up a separate business, they dropped the prices so low I couldn't compete. After seeing what they were doing with the goods there, and how many people needed them... I figured I had little left to lose by getting into smuggling. If I could cut the prices on them goods, I could push out the cruellest smugglers out, and be a pain in the ass of the elite. Actually, worked for a while." He puffed up his cheeks, "But then I got caught."

    Wincing again, Aidan finally dropped down from his lean and back onto four limbs. Sam instinctively took a step forward, but Aidan merely raised a hand to stop him, "I managed to get on the first ship out of Sahra City and made my way here. After a while, once I saw similar problems going on here, and I started to establish a little smuggling network here too."

    He managed a shrug, "It's just a side thing though, I'm genuine in wanting to do exploring. It's part of the reason why people didn't like me back in Sand. There never was a massive investment in exploration over there."

    Aidan sighed, focusing his gaze directly onto Sam himself. "So, there it is, my life story for you. Like I said, I wanted to give things a little more time but stuff… has kinda got in the way of that."

    Silence reigned, Sam's heart slowly pounding hard in his chest. It took him a moment to realise that Aidan was waiting for him to reply.

    I mean… smuggling anything is a crime… good intentions or not… he is committing an illegal act… but at the same time… he's been a good friend. And if he is doing things because of some really screwed up shit… especially after the kind of life he has lived?

    Sam let out a heavy sigh, stepping up to Aidan and patting his shoulder with a furred hand. "Well… I can understand why you went ahead with this. To be honest… err…"

    "Go on." Aidan quietly urged.

    The Scorbunny hesitated, "If you want me to join you… I can't say I would actually do smuggling… but I can keep quiet about it. If you really are doing it for a genuinely good reason, then I won't stand in the way."

    A small smile slowly spread across the frog's face as he slumped, less from worry, but relief. "I'm glad to hear that. That would be all I ask."

    "Why did you tell me this then?" Sam asked, "You could have just kept quiet about this and I would have been none the wiser."

    Aidan shrugged, "Well… after what we've been through and with everything happening, I figured I'd be honest with you. You'd figure it out eventually and I guess a part of me wants to leave the door open, in case you wanted to join. But since you don't, that's fine too."

    Sam tilted his head at that, I suppose that makes sense. At least he is trying to be upfront with me.

    Aidan began to turn towards the trees, "Come on, I didn't bring us out here just to chat."

    He hopped on into the trees, thankfully a lot slower this time than before, enough that Sam only needed to walk to keep up with him. "Then… why else did you bring us out here?"

    "We've got a transaction."

    Aidan led the way through the undergrowth, with only the twinkling stars above their head to light their way. Sam could sense he would have got lost the moment he would try and make his own way through the woods. But Aidan seemed to have a firm idea of where they were headed, and soon, they cleared the trees and found themselves within a larger clearing.

    Sam tilted an ear at the sight of a very small carriage that came complete with a shroud over the top of it. It was catered to by a Pansage and an Aron who stood nearby. The green monkey towards the new arrivals, face composed and lips pressed tight together. "Aidan. What are you playing at?"

    Aidan merely bowed his head, "Just an assistant, you can trust him."

    The monkey and armoured Pokémon glanced at each other with narrowed eyes, and even in the dark, Sam could tell they were flicking their gazes over to him. As if scanning for any sort of sign of incoming betrayal. He felt himself stiffen, weary of one of them lunging forward at him. He knew how twitchy Greg's companions were, no doubt these guys would be the same.

    Both however seemed to relax, and the monkey turned back towards Aidan. "You have the Poke?"

    "It'll be handed to you back at the beach. I have someone there waiting for you, as previously agreed." Aidan said, "What about the package?"

    The Pansage stepped up towards the cart and reached underneath the canvas to pull out a small box, barely bigger than one's hand and tossed it over towards the water-type. Easily catching it with one hand, Aidan flicked open a lid built into the top. Filling the box was a strange green powder, one that looked like it had the consistency of sand. Aidan leaned in closer, inspecting the contents before closing the lid and tossing the box over. "Looks good. Head further up the trail, there will be someone there waiting to offload it all."

    Nodding, the Pansage replaced the box as the Aron began to move towards the front of the carriage, about ready to start pulling it, Sam guessed. He leaned in closer towards Aidan, one eye narrowed and focused on the two other Pokémon. "What was that he just showed you?" he asked.

    "Healing Powder." Aidan explained, "It can help clear up pretty much any affliction you have. Paralysis, Poisoning, the lot."

    "And why was it banned?"

    "Eh… it's pretty bitter. Tastes nasty as all hell."

    Sam frowned at the words, "Bitter? That's it?"

    Aidan shrugged, "Well, apparently people can get addicted to it. But that is unlikely as long as you are careful with how much you take. Plus, to get rid of the taste, it can be mixed in with other stuff to do that."

    Sam's frown only deepened. That's… pretty tame. I mean, if it can be carefully monitored then that's fair… but if people can get addicted to it…

    "I know what you are thinking." Aidan confirmed, "I don't distribute a lot of powder to individuals at any time. That way I can make sure the chances of that happening are nil."

    Nodding, Sam watched as the two smugglers began to move the carriage towards a path cutting through the trees, heading further to the west. His stomach churned, a part of his screaming that this was wrong. Even with the best of intentions, this was just wrong. And yet… this was Aidan he was thinking about here. Given everything he had seen Aidan do with him back in Robinswood and in Broken Wood… he just couldn't accept the possibility that the Froakie would allow for anything bad to happen. He did go and find Dan for a start… helped Bruce and helped himself.

    "You alright?" Aidan asked, voice lowering.

    In that moment, the Scorbunny realised he hadn't been breathing, and took in a deep, sharp hiss of air. "Y-Yeah… I don't want any part in this but… I trust you are doing the right thing in this…"

    "That's fine. That's all I really ask. I wouldn't want you to get involved in this anyway."

    Aidan did one small hop forward, his eyes fixed on the back of the carriage as it approached the edge of the clearing. "It's good to have someone who understands why I have to do this."

    Sam tilted an ear again, his gut churning even more. "What makes you say that?"

    The Froakie was already clenching his fist again, "Just some goodie-two-shoes." He growled, "Even when I have tried to explain that things like Healing Powder are safe if kept carefully managed, they still buy into the lies of the elite and think it's the most important thing in the world to stop people getting the help they need." Groaning, Aidan grasped his head and shook it hard. "Just thinking about it gives me a headache… I had to deal with enough of that back home. And that damn Pikachu and his mates always kept sticking their heads into my business!"

    Sam rubbed the back of his head, "Well, you can't exactly blame them for being like that. They are only trying to follow the rules-"

    His heart stopped dead, a cold chill settling over him as the memory rushed to the surface… all the way back from when he first awoke…

    The yellow body from before he recognised as a Pikachu. Their eyes were shut and their face was relaxed… but the amount of blood covering them, especially round their neck…

    "B-But this isn't just killing! You've torn them apart!"

    "Seriously, if they had just opened their eyes for one minute… hey, Sam? What's wrong?"

    Sam narrowed his eyes, his gaze burning into Aidan who stood across the way in the clearing.

    "Oh, I was just thinking about those bandits? One of them was a Swampert right?"

    "Yeah? What about it?"

    "Just glad that guy got caught. Last I heard he was stealing a lot of supplies of the caravans."

    "Sam?"

    Staring down Aidan, Sam couldn't stop his body tremoring. And when he finally spoke, his voice was deeper, and he struggled hold it together. "What… did you just say about a Pikachu?"

    Aidan blinked in confusion, before rubbing the back of his head with a hiss of air, "Did… I say a Pikachu? I meant a Pachirisu." He let out a clearly nervous chuckle. "I-I still get them mixed up a-"

    "Stop lying to me!" Sam screamed, loud enough for Aidan to shuffle back. In the corner of his eye, the carriage, on the trail, shuddered to a halt. Sam panted; his eyes focused now purely on Aidan. "What about a Pikachu?" he questioned, firmer and far more direct.

    Aidan seemed to hesitate, as if trying to work out another way of talking his way out.

    Before finally closing his eyes and bowing his head. "…this operation has gone rather well… until a resident Pikachu and his Squirtle friend started snooping around."

    A light blue coloured turtle, its head twisted at an awkward angle.

    "…I tried to encourage them to look the other way, to stop chasing this all up but they refused to back down… they were going out to find evidence to bring to the Guild…" Aidan's voice quivered for a second, "So I decided to send a group Pokémon to convince them to back off… including a Swampert."

    Sam's blood once more began to pump, now pounding in his ears as his whole body wouldn't stop twitching. His mind racing. Shock. Confusion. Betrayal. Anger. Rage. All of these emotions flowed through, brewing into a fire that burned in his chest. This wasn't about good intentions any more. A line had been crossed. Something Sam couldn't stand.

    Aidan raised his hands slowly, his own voice quivering. "Look… I didn't-"

    Sam barely registered his cry as the Scorbunny shot across the distance with Quick Attack, his foot flying into the smuggler's face with an almighty crack.

    Aidan bounced across the grassy ground, grunting as he slid to a halt. The Aron and Pansage sprinted over to his side, looks of shock on their face as the Froakie began to push himself up to his feet. "Damn it Sam!" he managed snap, clutching his head as he pushed himself up, "For someone who listens a lot you do tend to throw yourself into trouble a lot do you!?"

    "You had them killed!" Sam bellowed at the top of lungs, the flame within threatening to burn the fire type up. "How can you be helping Pokémon if you are also killing them too!?"

    "I didn't order that idiot Greg to kill them!" Aidan snapped, eyes narrowing as he finally got back on his four feet. "And given that he did, it must have been in self-defence."

    "Bullshit! I saw the bodies; Greg and his goons tore them apart! If you think running this operation is helping people, then you've lost it!" Sam shook his head, "Hiding a small little bit of smuggling is one thing, but hiding a cause behind murder? I'll never do that!"

    Aidan's features softened, his two compatriots glancing nervously over at their employer. "I suppose… this means you are going to the authorities?" he quietly asked, almost pleadingly.

    Sam bared his buckteeth, eyes burning as he locked onto Aidan. I can't let him get away with this! Even if he didn't intend for them to die, the fact he still sent Greg after them to do harm… I just can't stand by!

    When his next words came out, they were barely more than a hiss. "You can count on that. I'm not letting you get away with this."

    Aidan held his gaze for a moment longer, lips twitching for the briefest of moments.

    Then he closed his eyes with a shake of his head, sighing softly. "Well. Sorry I have to do this."

    His eyes snapped open, the Froakie leaping upright into a bipedal stance. In a moment, one ball of water swirled into existence in between his hands. A second later, the hands came apart and the ball split into two. In silence, Aidan took one step forward and threw the balls towards the Scorbunny.

    Sam yelped in surprise as he rolled out of the way of the first water ball, the projectile sailing past where his head would have been to fly into a tree over his shoulder with a bang.

    The second he wasn't so lucky with. The projectile slamming into his chest like a cannon ball. Sam felt all the air rush out of his lungs, the flame within immediately getting smothered under the ice-cold water. He felt himself fly… and immediately slam back down to the ground, bouncing once before rolling across the grass and skidding to a halt.

    Pain pulsed through every part of his body, the rabbit crying out as he tried to pick himself back up, a sharper pulse rushing up through his limbs with every little movement. W-Water Pulse… how did Aidan know- He coughed, shakingly managing to get himself to his knees in find the three smugglers approaching him from three directions, with Aidan positioned at the centre of them, his eyes narrowing and his voice suddenly deep. "You know… I do kinda like you Sam. We've made a pretty good team so far, what with Broken Wood and that."

    "What's your point?" Sam gasped, struggling to draw air back into his lungs.

    "I meant what I said with the Guild." Aidan replied, crossing his arms, "We can still join, pretend this never happened and go on with our lives. We could make a real impact in the world. Help Pokémon."

    His eyes narrowed even further, "I would like that. So, I'm giving you one more chance. Forget this ever happened, and we can go back to adventuring."

    Sam narrowed his eyes, feeling the diminished flame starting to reignite in his chest. That Water Pulse may have hurt like hell, but it wasn't the Hydro Pump that Greg had nearly killed him with. Grass and Steel Types too… something that fire could definitely hurt. Even if he couldn't beat them… he could just create an opening to escape…

    "I-I could never just forget all of this…" Sam managed to utter, spitting into the grass as he strained to get himself back upright. "I'll tell you the same thing I told Greg."

    Straightening himself up, he looked at Aidan – his former partner – in the eye.

    "I'd rather die."

    Aidan's fists clenched, a hiss escaping his mouth as he began to step forward towards the Scorbunny. "Then you give me no choice…"

    He started to rise to his feet, a new water pulse beginning to charge, "Goodbye old friend!"

    "Not today asshole!"

    Aidan blinked, his eyes widening in surprise at the new voice, "W-Who was-"

    A brown shape flashed through the darkness above his head, sailing straight into Aidan with a salvo of two kicks straight into his face. Aidan let out a pained roar, flying back once more and sending his partners scrambling back to join him. The brown shape flipped backwards onto the ground in front of Sam, one fluffy ear coiled in and ready to strike.

    Sam could barely hide his gasp, "Alice!?"

    Alice settled into a more combat ready stance, only taking a brief glance back to check Sam over before focusing her gaze ahead. Following her eyes, he could see Aidan surrounded by his two smuggler partners, head clutched deeply in his hands and stuck between groaning and crying out.

    "I knew you were hiding something Aidan." Alice stated with a clear bite in her tone. "But I never thought you'd stoop so low."

    Aidan's pained eyes locked onto the Buneary, "Alice… Alice, Alice you little damn wi-agh!"

    He tightened the grip on his head, a curse escaping his lips. Sam frowned, stumbling over to Alice's side. Damn, those headaches must be killing the poor guy. "How… how did you find us?" Sam managed to ask.

    In the corner of his eye, Alice glanced once more over at him. "I've been following Aidan for a while, but I knew he was up to something when I saw him with you in the library." She pulled a shrug, "I figured Aidan was doing something screwed up around here, but never this.".

    She focused her eyes on the still pained Aidan, "So what's the matter Aidan? Lost your tongue?"

    Snarling, Aidan forced himself back onto four feet to face them. "You have always been a piece of shit Alice. Always have, always will be." He shook his head like a wet dog, his entire body tremoring. "You know what? I've had enough of this. I'm done with you constantly butting your head in my business! And I'm sick of the fact you have somehow managed to bend Sam here to your whims!"

    Sam bristled up, the fire in his chest now beginning to flare fully once more. "No one manage to 'bent' me to their whims at all! The only one who has lied to me has been you!"

    "Enough!" Aidan roared, one arm pulling up as he settled into a new stance. "I was going to hold this back for as long as I can… but I don't think I can do that anymore. Let me show you how strong I truly am!"

    In that moment, Aidan's entire body was enveloped in white-blue light. Sam recoiled, his white paw shading his eyes from the bright glow. Narrowing his eyes, he struggled to focus his view back onto the Froakie.

    Only it wasn't quite a Froakie anymore. Sam could only gasp as Aidan's form began to shift and change shape, growing to become twice the size he was before. Finally, with a brief flash, the light was blasted away from the Pokémon.

    And left a completely new Pokémon in his place. Aidan's body was now a much darker blue this time, with a pair of spikes sweeping back from the top of his yellow eyes. A pair of eyes now locked on the two rabbits standing across from him.

    Sam looked over to find Alice's eyes were now wide, struggling to hide her own surprise. "Evolution." She managed to utter out. "He's a Frogadier now…"

    The Scorbunny narrowed his eyes. The fact that Aidan was able to stand on two legs and the fact that Aidan was able to use Water Pulse like that must have indicators that Aidan was ready to evolve! How did I never see that? I guess I was still shaky over everything that's happened!

    Aidan laughed, inspecting his new hand in front of him with a sparkle in his eye. "Finally!" he exclaimed, his voice deeper. "Those headaches were really starting to fucking kill me! I've held back on evolving for so long!"

    Eyes narrowing, he jabbed a finger at the two rabbits. "Now! Cut them down!"

    With a bark of acknowledgement, the Pansage and Aron charged towards them.

    Sam slid his foot back, feeling the fire inside burn bright. "We're gonna have to work together Alice!"

    In the corner of his eye, he could see Alice's head turn and return a sharp nod. "I'll deal with the Aron, the ape's all yours."

    With that, Alice bounced forwards at the steel type, and Sam shot left to face the Pansage head on.

    The monkey sprinted towards him on all fours, teeth bared as he charged. Fire vs Grass, should be easy!

    Thankfully, even in the grass, little pebbles must have been present, and Sam managed to boot away an Ember straight at the grass-type. Grunting, the Pansage leapt to one side, the fireball striking the ground where he once stood. Sam pulled his foot back to fire off another attack, but within a blink of an eye it was already upon him.

    Its claws flashed through the air at him, and Sam immediately leapt back once, then twice as the monkey chased after him. It shrieked all the while, each Fury Swipe only just missing Sam as he tried to beat a retreat. I can't get an ember off like this! Wait! I still have Quick Attack!

    He kicked back extra hard on the next swipe, opening up some distance between him and the Pansage. He sprinted back forward, willing himself to go faster.

    His foe attempted to swipe him again, but his claws only cut through thin air.

    Sam blinked back into existence behind the Pansage, and with the briefest flash of a grin, booted another Ember into his back. The monkey cried out, thrown down onto his front with a thud. Wincing, he tried to push himself back up to his feet and bared his fangs, daring the Scorbunny to give it another shot.

    He promptly answered by kicking a fresh fireball straight into the monkey's face. The Pansage let a faint gasp as he keeled over onto his back, unconscious and out of the fight.

    "I've got mine!" Sam cheered, spinning round to find Alice punching the Aron in the face with a seemingly darker ear. "Great!" she barked, "Give me a hand with this guy!"

    Sam jerked up straight, "I'm coming!" he shouted as he sprinted towards them.

    Another ear-punch sent the Aron skidding back with a grunt, "Rock Smash!?" he rumbled, "How d- forget it, try dodging this!"

    A crackle of blue energy flowed around the Aron. Instantly, Alice leapt back, "Shock Wave! Watch out!"

    Sam barely registered it, "Sh-"

    Alice bounced into the air just as the blue electric attack shot out from the Aron, flying straight towards him.

    The Scorbunny could only cry out in agony as the bolt hit him. Pain surged through him as if he had just been set alight, stabbing into every part of his body.

    It only lasted a couple of seconds, but as the discharged faded away, his limbs continued to jerk uncontrollably and the Scorbunny collapsing to his knees, only a single arm strong enough to keep himself up. He squeezed his eyes shut, trying to fight off the now reduced but sharp pain that surged through him. His fur was stuck on end, his ears ringing with the crackle of electricity.

    He opened his eyes just in time to see Alice throw off another Rock Smash, sending the Aron tumbling across the field into a battered heap. The Buneary's head swivelled left and right, "Aidan!? Where are you hiding!?" she shouted, a snarl on her lips.

    Her eyes briefly passed over Sam, only to spring back and widen. "Shit! Are you still breathing there?"

    Aidan silently fell in from above, touching down behind her. Before Sam could even shout, Aidan's glowing fist had already flown into Alice's side. She grunted as she was shoved onto her front. But just as quickly threw herself back onto her feet and charging back at Aidan, her ears throwing out punch after punch at the Frogadier. Aidan smirked as he casually dodged each punch with a twist to the side. With an angry yell, she jumped into the air, ready to fire off another Double Kick at the frog's head.

    Sam blinked, and heard Alice's gasp.

    Aidan had grabbed hold of her feet mid-attack, the Buneary's eyes wide with shock as her opponent threw one hand back and charged up another Water Pulse.

    The injured Scorbunny could only watch as the water ball struck Alice hard. The rabbit screamed as she was thrown into the air and crashed back down to earth with a crack. Shivering, Alice struggled to push herself back up again, teeth gritted… only to collapse back into a heap, panting away.

    A cruel laugh escaped Aidan's mouth, "By Arceus! That was too satisfying!" The Frogadier coughed, wiping his forehead with one hand. "Well, it's been fun Alice." He purred, stepping forward towards her on two legs and tightening his fist. Alice winced, trying to pull herself away, "But I think that this game is up. Might as well end your cursed existence."

    Sam's heart threatened to burst out his chest, the fire in his chest raging once again. "Get away from her Aidan!" he barked, willing his limbs to stop shaking and throwing himself back up to his feet. His entire body protested at the sudden movement, but biting his lip Sam manage to stay upright. I'm… not letting Aidan get away with this!

    Aidan raised a brow, opening his hand up to face him again. "And what are you going to do? Water types beat fire types. I'm one whole evolution ahead of you. And that's before you see what state you're in."

    Shivering, Sam knew that Aidan was right. He held all the cards. Quick Attack wouldn't do enough on its own, and Ember might not even hurt Aidan at this point. But the fire in the Scorbunny only burned hotter than ever. To give up now would mean death. Not just for him, but for Alice too.

    I can't… I won't give up now!

    He took one painful step, then two, and began to sprint towards him. With a horrific yell, Sam kicked out his attack.

    But instead of the sound of fire igniting, his ears picked up the crackle of electricity. A yellow ball of electricity sparked into life, growing bigger as it flew towards its target.

    Aidan could only let out a surprised 'What?!' as the orb sailed into him, lifting the Frogadier off his feet and flinging him away. Sam skidded to a halt, watching in shock as Aidan cartwheeled across the ground and into a tree. The snap rung in his ears like a bell. H-How did I do that!?

    "E-Electro Ball?" Alice managed to pant, looking up at him with her mouth agape.

    He looked down at himself, finding the little yellow flickers of electricity flowing around him. That electric attack… I must have been charged up!

    Sam clenched his fists, Electro Ball huh? Should be handy against water types then!

    "Sam watch out!"

    His head snapped back up in time to find Aidan throwing another Water Pulse straight at him.

    His body still quivering, there was no way for him to dodge it. He held his arms out in front of him, braced for the impact.

    And it hit hard. A wave of pain rushed up his arms, the ball of water shoving him back across the ground. Sam dug his feet in, gritting his teeth as he pushed back-

    Wait – how am I-

    The ball dissipated before him, leaving Sam standing. His arms ached and pulsed… but compared to the last water-type attack...

    That felt like nothing!

    Aidan straightened up, and it was his turn for his mouth to hang open. "H-How did you survive that?"

    Sam blinked in confusion. That should have been the end of him, and yet, here he was.

    And that is when he noticed the glow. He looked down again to find a soft blue glow flow around him, sheathing his entire body. "What is this!?" Aidan growled.

    Alice pushed herself up that little bit more, a tiny grin straining to emerge across her face. "Libero."

    "Lib-what?"

    The Buneary looked over at the Frogadier with a truly cathartic and smug look. "Scorbunny's hidden ability. It changes one's type to the type of the move they are about to use. That means your water type moves won't hurt him as much, and his electric attack will hit you a lot harder."

    Her grin grew that little bit bigger. "You aren't as clever as you think you are."

    Aidan quivered, his eyes burning with rage.

    Alice spun round to Sam, "Now! Hit him again!"

    Sam sprung forward again, "Got it!".

    Sliding his foot forward, he felt the electricity surge through him as another Electro Ball went flying forward. This time though, Aidan was ready, the Frogadier flinging himself forward and under the ball. As it sailed into the trees, he had rolled next to Alice, readying another Water Pulse as he sprung back to his feet. "That Libero won't save you Sam! One more attack and you're finished!"

    Stumbling, Sam struggled to stay upright, his entire body screaming in protest as he tried to spark another Electro Ball… but he knew Aidan would get to him first.

    He braced for the final blow.

    Aidan started to throw-

    Alice sprung backwards, crying out as she sailed straight into Aidan. Crying out, Aidan's Water Pulse sailed away. Sam flinched, ducking as the ball of water skimmed past his head and into the trees behind him. A near miss!

    "Sam!" Alice screamed, "Now!"

    He didn't hesitate, his feet throwing off sparks as he sent the Electro Ball flying.

    Aidan's roar was cut short as his head snapped back as the orb struck his chin, lifting the frog clear off the ground. He sailed through the air, body flailing before he finally struck the ground with a horrific crack and crumpled into a bruised mess.

    Sam keeled over, catching his hands against his knees to hold himself up with the remaining strength he had left. I… I did it…

    Aidan's body stirred, a quiet moan rising from him.

    A chill fell down on him like an axe as his old partner pushed himself back up to his feet. Aidan shuddered, clearly struggling to stay up himself. "You…" he hissed, eyes almost literally on fire, "You're dead!"

    He took a step forward. Sam shuddered, feeling his face beginning to get wet. He tried to blink the tears away, but it was no use. He was in no state to fire another attack off. It was over.

    They were going to die.

    "Hey! I think they went this way!"

    Aidan stiffened, his head snapping upwards. Sam glanced over his shoulder, where within the gloom of the trees, faint orange lights flickered in and out in the dark. "I can see something ahead!" came a familiar voice. "I'll have a look!"

    J-Jack…

    Aidan's eyes flicked back and forth between the injured or fainted Pokémon, and the lights at Sam's back. As if trying to debate wherever or not he should take his chances at killing his foes. Sam could feel the scales shifting, ready to tip one way or another.

    Fist's clenching, Aidan shook his head. "Damn it… you've got lucky this time."

    He jabbed a finger at Sam, hatred evident in his expression. "But mark my words! I trusted you. I actually thought you were my friend! But I'm not letting you get in my way!" Aidan turned away from him. "Goodbye, old friend."

    And with that, Aidan sprinted away into the trees.

    Sam watched him go, his entire body shuddering out of his control. It's over…

    A quiet groan brushed by his ears, and Sam glanced over to find Alice trying to sit up, only to slump back down onto her back. Wincing, he started to stumble towards her. Every part of his body was protesting, begging him to stop. But he pressed on, trying to get to her side.

    He was literally right next to her when his legs finally gave up, and with an understandable lack of grace, unceremoniously toppled face first into the ground next to her.

    Sam lay there in silence, only the sound of his own breathing confirming that he was still awake or even alive. His mind went to and from, bordering on the edge of unconsciousness.

    "Sam…" Alice uttered, "Are you dead?"

    Blinking, Sam coughed and rolled his head towards the source of the sound. Alice's eyes were half closed, but with her head rolled over, they were focused straight on him.

    "Y-yeah…" he snarked weakly. "You?"

    She let out a pained huff that could only indicate amusement. "Yeah."

    They remained silent again, the sounds of the approaching search parties getting ever closer.

    "Nice… moves by the way." She whispered.

    The Scorbunny managed to nod softly back. "Thanks… and Alice?"

    "Yeah?"

    "…thank you… I wouldn't have got out without you…"

    Alice didn't immediately respond, but even in his state, Sam saw – or at least thought he saw – the flicker of a tear in one of the Buneary's eyes.

    "S-sure."

    The beat of wings finally reached Sam's ears, as the bug-like form of Jack hovered over their heads. "Holy- are you two okay? What happened?"

    Sam closed his eyes, letting out a little sigh. "That's… a long story…"

    And in record time, Chapter XX is now done! I will probably slow down now, as I will be catching up with other projects, as well as revisiting the first few chapters based on some of the feedback I have recieved. Those first chapters were done when I was less committed to writing GoB, so I figured I might as well sort them out and improve them whilst working on Chapter XXI. Either way, hope you have enjoyed this one!
     
  • Threadmarks
    • Was…that frog that confident Sam was on his side?
    Guess he expected anyone to be so blasé about murder?
     
    Zowo said:
    Was…that frog that confident Sam was on his side?
    Guess he expected anyone to be so blasé about murder?
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    To be fair, Aidan did try to hide the really shitty details. And he also hinted that murder was not his intention.

    Truth is, Aidan saw Sam as a friend, and let his guard down. Even if Aidan is a crook.
     
    wonder if Sam will train more with Quick attack?
    turn it less into an Attack, and more an Escape?
     
    Zowo said:
    Was…that frog that confident Sam was on his side?
    Guess he expected anyone to be so blasé about murder?
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    Nah, he made a good point until he slipped. Shame, Aiden had an interesting point going on, but there is a reason why smuggling is still frowned upon even with good intentions. It's not exactly easy to draw a line in the sand as to how much is too much when your starting point is ignoring a different line to begin with. Perhaps his intentions were really like that at some point, perhaps it wasn't just a trick to keep Sam quiet, but by now? He's clearly too far gone for those questions to matter.

    Aiden aside, Libero is quite the interesting addition. In a game it'd be stupidly broken for a MC to have that ability, making it a blatantly superior choice from the others, but for a story it might just be a pretty interesting boost to the protagonist's capabilities. After all it's not as if, unlike in a game, it has to trigger every single time or be perfectly mastered and usable from the get-go.
     
    Hey there! I read up from the prologue to chapter 3. Here are my thoughts.

    StolenMadWolf said:
    Now… I imagine… we should start with a quick personality quiz?

    Something chuckles in the darkness…

    I'm joking.
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    oh thank god

    StolenMadWolf said:
    But I will watch you all from a distance. To the best of my ability. I can promise you that.

    Don't be afraid. None of you alone.
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    I initially was kind of confused on whether the voice was speaking to one person or multiple. On second read, I suppose it's just one person ("Observer") present and listening but "you all" refers to a group of which the "Observer" is one of.

    Also, missing an "are" in the last sentence.

    StolenMadWolf said:
    What? I… I can't hear you… I'm… His thoughts began to blur together, the lights now fading away, the hum ceasing… the star the only thing left he could even see. "Please! All of this… it needs saving…
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    The other entity's line ought to be on a new line, as the agent in this paragraph is Sam.

    StolenMadWolf said:
    The Sun? Yeah, has to be… just like… wait...
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    Capitalizing "sun" is, as far as I understand, reserved for planetary contexts, so seeing it done here is kind of weird.

    StolenMadWolf said:
    The sky was almost picturesque.
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    I'm not sure if pairing the word "picturesque" with "almost" makes sense? It's kinda like saying something is almost beautiful (when it's not unusual for that something to be beautiful).

    StolenMadWolf said:
    "Dang it." he hissed, "No idea."
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    Something that was kinda weird to me were the curse words used in this story - they don't really seem to stay on a consistent level of vulgarity. I'd get it if it was character specific, but the main character says "shit" later, and I'm told "bloody" is also among the stronger curses in Britain.

    StolenMadWolf said:
    "Damn… they just look the same, you know?"

    "The same? They've all got symbols on them you nitwit!"
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    I take it that this was written before DX. Anyway, seeds having symbols for telling them apart makes sense!

    StolenMadWolf said:
    Ah right… you guy's are Pokémon… right…
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    *guys

    StolenMadWolf said:
    "At your age?"

    Sam blinked at that, mind initially drawing a blank. Ah… Scorbunny is a pre-evolution right? Err..
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    So this line paired up with the "you know how no one's evolving again" remark has me a little confused - the Rattata and Pidgey talk like they're not "kids", but if prevos are meant to be children, I would assume that by that rule at least Pidgey is one. There is the "people aren't evolving" thing, yes, but the way that's phrased makes it sound like it's a pretty new development and in that case I would expect Pidgey to have evolved before it.

    Or is Sam's whole thought about Scorbunny being a prevo just what he assumes made the others think he was a child, when it was actually something else, like him looking specifically like a young Scorbunny? I would then ask why Sam didn't stop to wonder why the Pidgey was acting older than him, but Sam seems to be a bit dim-witted, so it makes sense for his character.

    StolenMadWolf said:
    He started strolling over to the path, keeping one eye on the two Pokémon, "I won't tell anyone you're here either. So you don't have to worry about th-"

    That was when he saw the yellow shape, jutting out from behind the back of the Rattata, and with that, he stopped mid stride. He was about to brush it off, consider it nothing… but curiosity nibbled at the back of his mind and so… it got the better of him. "Hey, what's that?"

    Taking a step back, the Rattata hid the yellow shape away. "It's nothing." The Pidgey said. "Just some berries."

    "You said you were looking at seeds though…" Sam mused, taking a few steps closer, trying to peer round, "Unless you guys have berries to-"

    The yellow shape reappeared into view… and he recognised it as an arm attached to a little yellow and brown body… covered in blood. Sam froze, his entire body stiffening, "W-wait… is that a-"
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    So is the dead Pokemon here particularly small, or already partly hidden behind something like bushes? I'm not sure if I buy the idea that something as small as a Rattata could cover a Pokemon behind them for an entire conversation.

    StolenMadWolf said:
    Come with me, if you will 'Observer'.
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    StolenMadWolf said:
    "I'm not helpless you know." He said, "Just me against the two of you? It's not like I'm dealing with some big dude huh?"
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    StolenMadWolf said:
    "At least I can still move mate!" he teased.
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    StolenMadWolf said:
    "What are you waiting for you idiots!?" the Swampert rumbled, "After him!"
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    This may have been pointed out by someone else already as the fic has been going or for some time and appears to be on multiple sites, but I'll say it anyway: there are some commas missing that I think ought to be there. For these examples, what I believe to be correct comma usage is this:

    Come with me, if you will, 'Observer'.
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    "I'm not helpless, you know." He said, "Just me against the two of you? It's not like I'm dealing with some big dude, huh?"
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    "At least I can still move, mate!" he teased.
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    "What are you waiting for, you idiots!?" the Swampert rumbled, "After him!"
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    You may have heard of that "Let's eat, Grandma" vs "Let's eat Grandma" example at some point. For more information, see the sixth item on this list. The other cases ("you know" and "huh") I could not find a source for, but I'm fairly confident that most writers will agree on this.

    ---

    General Thoughts

    So while my comments so far have been on the critical side, make no mistake - I do enjoy the writing style here, and I think the concept of stumbling into a murder scene the first thing after arriving in PMD is both interesting and fitting for the darker tone you describe this fic having. It's a bit humorous too, in a cosmic way.

    In terms of tone, though, I do have a bit more to say. I feel like the kind of cartoonish writing and Sam's POV don't really mesh with the darker tone you seem to want to go for. It is possible to use these two to contrast each other, but that approach usually has the lighthearted character be shocked by the darker elements and have the darkness overpower the lightness when it happens so that it really does feel dark and oppressive. Here, though, Sam's shock to the murder is very quickly brushed over, and he's confident and ready to fight in seconds, quipping and everything. This can work if you were going for something like dark/mature comedy, but the usage of lighter swears or non-swears like "crap" and "dang" clashes with this, and the comedy itself feels a bit childlike. In summary, I'm just not sure what exactly you're going for as right now the intended tone is unclear.

    Anyway, this can definitely just be a case of the story still figuring itself out at the beginning, and I can hardly make story-wide judgments based on three short chapters. I don't know yet if I'll continue, but I wish you good luck with writing onward. See you around!
     
    Krazyfan1 said:
    wonder if Sam will train more with Quick attack?
    turn it less into an Attack, and more an Escape?
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    Possibly. He already used Quick Attack to bypass an opponent. It could be used to aid Escapes.

    JBcristal said:
    Nah, he made a good point until he slipped. Shame, Aiden had an interesting point going on, but there is a reason why smuggling is still frowned upon even with good intentions. It's not exactly easy to draw a line in the sand as to how much is too much when your starting point is ignoring a different line to begin with. Perhaps his intentions were really like that at some point, perhaps it wasn't just a trick to keep Sam quiet, but by now? He's clearly too far gone for those questions to matter.

    Aiden aside, Libero is quite the interesting addition. In a game it'd be stupidly broken for a MC to have that ability, making it a blatantly superior choice from the others, but for a story it might just be a pretty interesting boost to the protagonist's capabilities. After all it's not as if, unlike in a game, it has to trigger every single time or be perfectly mastered and usable from the get-go.
    Click to expand...
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    Indeed. Even those who start off on a darker path with noble intentions could gradually get twisted. Needless to say, Aiden's path has twisted around quite a bit.

    I figured Libero would be a pretty interesting ability to start off with... especially as other challenges rise up with that.

    Thanks for the feedback @canisaries! Coupled with some other feedback, I'm planning on going back and revising and releasing updated versions of the original chapters onto the different sites. They were written at a time when I was less committed to the fic as I am now (compare the 1,000 or so words in Chapter 1 with the 7,000 word Chapter 20) so it makes sense to go back and work through the details again. I'll send out an update once I start uploading those improved chapters!

    Also, as an addition I wasn't able to add to TR, the later chapters can get quite a bit darker, especially as Sam's personality settles in a bit more. Hence having a fresh look at the older chapters. I hope you continue reading but otherwise thank you for the feedback! I appreciate it!
     
    Chapter XXI - The Cursed Past
  • Threadmarks
    • POKÉMON MYSTERY DUNGEON
    GUARDIANS OF BALANCE

    ALWAYS AUDACITY
    CHAPTER XXI: THE CURSED PAST    ​

    And so, Chapter XXI is now up! Sorry for the delay, as I decided to take a break and focus on other projects. But this was a major chapter in it's own right, so I figured I would get it done!

    As a bonus, in response to some feedback, I have expanded and reworked Chapter I, complete with an all new scene and some neatened up content, so be sure to check that out! Either way, enjoy Chapter XXI and the new Chapter I!

    Sam was stuck bouncing between two sides of a very thin coin. On one side, there was that feeling of comfort and security that flowed over him like a warm wave. An utterly pleasant and welcome feeling after all the troubles and horrors of the day.

    On the other side, was the heavy breathing of the clearly pissed off Rapidash, busy doing the healing.

    "Are you truly that stupid!" Rebecca snorted, her horn glowing as she focused her Heal Pulse on himself and Alice. From Sam's perspective, sprawled out across the couch, he could just make out the Buneary slumped upright against the seat, a pair of narrowed eyes focusing on the horse.

    "Come on!" Jack started, hovering in the background, "That's just uncool, you can't just go off like this on them!"

    "Someone has to say it!" Rebecca growled back.

    "Look." Alice started, sounding so tired that she didn't even seem to have the energy to be angry anymore. "I knew Aidan was up to something for weeks now. I only followed a lead and stumbled into something far bigger."

    "You could have called for help!" barked the fairy-type. "Or reported this to the Guild!"

    "And who would believe me?" Alice quipped back, "The cursed kid? Hell, I tried and it only just worked."

    Sam sighed deeply, "To be honest, if Alice didn't jump in when she did, I would have been toast."

    He caught a flicker of a glance from the Buneary, and a glare from the Rapidash. "You weren't much better! Walking out in the dead of night alone and rather than fleeing from danger, or playing along to report it to us, you try to fix the problem yourself!"

    Unable to muster the will to counter the argument, Sam simply redirected his gaze back towards the wooden ceiling, and the white lamp that hung above. "Yeah… I guess that's what happens when you get betrayed by someone you trust."

    Rebecca seemed ready to snap back, but no answer came.

    But Sam knew the Rapidash had a point. The gravity of what had happened just over an hour ago now beginning to pull him down, even in the shelter of the Guild Tree after Jack and the other Guild members found them.

    The fact that Aidan – someone who he thought was his friend – tried to kill him. All to keep his precious smuggling operation safe. The fact that Aidan tried to have Sam put aside the fact that he had sent goons to hurt that Pikachu and their team only added salt into the wound.

    Maybe once upon a time Aidan really wanted to help people. Maybe he was desperate enough to try smuggling and he really had the best of intents. But to go so far to try and cover his tracks…

    He closed his eyes. Regardless of what had happened now, someone who had once been his partner was now an enemy. And Sam knew that this was far from over. We'll come across each other again… I'm fairly sure of that.

    The familiar wave of warmth faded away as the Heal Pulse ceased. "How are they?" came the quiet, composed voice of Rex.

    Sam pushed himself upright to find Rex stepping down a set of stone steps into the lower level of his office, with Esper and Jack following him down. Rather than being rushed to the clinic, Sam and Alice had been quickly healed up impromptu at the field and swiftly rushed straight back to the Guild Tree once Jack had learnt what happened. Sam supposed they wanted to hear the story straight from him, and that had been proven quite accurate as he did a brief summary of what had happened.

    Rebecca, looking a little bit calmer – if only just – turned her head towards the guild master. "They'll live. They got lucky though, try and keep them from running off to do heroics."

    Rex bowed his head in response, "I'll try. Thank you, Rebecca. I've taken up enough of your time."

    With a quiet snort and a nod of her own, she strode out of the office. Rex settled himself down on the couch opposite from Sam and Alice, his cool blue eyes glancing between the pair. "You two do seem to have a thing for getting into some kind of trouble, do you?" he mused.

    Sam felt one fist clench, "It's not funny."

    "Of course it's not." Rex replied, "And I'm not trying to belittle you both. Just trying to make a little light of things."

    He leaned forward; hands cupped together. "How are you two though? You have been through a lot just today."

    Sam leaned back into the couch, noting how soft it was against his head. "I'm alright… just a bit, err…"

    He frowned, trying to rephrase his sentence. "Just been a long day."

    In the corner of his eye, he could see Alice nod back.

    "I'm so sorry you have had to go through this. Both of you." Rex replied, "If you ever need anything, let me know. Understand?"

    Sam nodded back, and the Blaziken leaned further forward on his couch. "Sam, you got to know Aidan rather well, after all he trusted you a great deal, even just after one day. Was there anything he said that could better link him to this smuggling operation he is running? Or anything more about him that might help investigate him?"

    The Scorbunny shook his head as he leaned forward, still trying to dig deeper into his memory for any snippet that could help. "He did get quite nasty at a few points, and those headaches were pretty regular. But nothing he said mentioned anything related. He did say he wanted to stick it to his family, but that was something he just brushed over. I never thought it would be that, err, deep."

    "He had snuck off a few times in the woods. And seemed to be getting a little bit of extra cash." Alice added, "I noticed he was paying a few Pokémon underhanded, and he was trying to make himself more of a voice within the barracks. That's when I started looking to see what he was up to."

    "Any idea who those Pokémon were?" Esper noted, sitting down next to Rex whilst Jack touched down on the floor besides the two couches.

    "I couldn't get a good view of their faces. And they seemed to be using something to muffle their voices." The Buneary shrugged, "I guess they didn't want to take any chances with rabbit ears."

    The Blaziken and the Meowstic shared a glance, one that seemed to radiate some level of concern between them. Especially from the Blaziken, who's hands seemed to tighten up at the words.

    Sam frowned, eyes narrowing. "You don't believe us."

    For the first time since they met, Rex's face darkened with a little bit of anger. His brow furrowing and his beak clicking, struggling to restrain himself. Sam felt himself shiver a little bit, worried that the fighting bird would start shouting at him. But the fact that the Blaziken kept his gaze away from the Scorbunny seemed to indicate otherwise.

    "I believe you." Rex said, "If I could, I'd have wanted posters for Aidan posted up in every part of Robinhood and apprehend him myself. But it's not me you have to convince."

    "I don't understand."

    "Robinswood isn't an independent town." Esper said, leaning forward herself. "Whilst the Guild does handle the capture of criminals, it is the judicial bodies back in each of the continents that gets to decide wherever we can try them or not. No doubt someone is already writing up a report about what has happened to send back to their superiors."

    Shuddering, Sam snarled in response, "So you're saying Sand could just write Aidan's actions off? That's stupid!"

    "That's politics for you." Rex replied, rubbing his crest with a clearly frustrated look. "We've got a small window to try and find any additional evidence, or preferably Aidan himself."

    "And if we are lucky, Sand might actively want him caught." The Meowstic added, her eyes narrowing. "That is, if Aidan wasn't lying about that description you gave as well Sam."

    "The fact that you didn't sniff him out doesn't do you much good." Alice said bluntly.

    "Alice!" Rex snapped, his eyes darkening, "We've disc-"

    Sam stiffened as he looked over at the Buneary, shaking her head to interrupt the guild master. "Guildmaster, if Aidan could fool everyone here about his true intent and set up a network around Robinswood, then any crook or lunatic could walk in with a false background. We need to check around the town itself and carefully, otherwise they can slip away without any problem to themselves."

    Esper flashed an unblinking gaze towards the Bliziken, but Sam could tell she was nervous. Indeed, the guild master's snap made him half worried that Rex was going to throw Alice out of the room. But instead, the guild master returned an unblinking stare… before slipping out an amused huff, a faint flicker of a smile forming round his beak, "I wouldn't be so blunt next time, but you are right." He turned towards Esper, "Can you double check the details of each of the residents of Robinswood? Discretely?"

    The feline bowed her head towards the guildmaster. "Of course, but it will take time without utilising my psychic power."

    "Let's reserve that as an absolute last resort." Rex stressed, "Just work through things the old-fashioned way."

    "I'll get started now, whilst any evidence is fresh."

    "Go ahead."

    Bowing once more, she turned to look over the two rabbits. She carefully scanned them both, mouth twisting as if in thought, trying to recall something. But then she bowed her head towards them, "I'm sorry for everything that has happened. I've taken precautions to make sure you aren't in any danger. Take care."

    As the Meowstic walked out of the room, Rex leaned forward towards the two rabbits. "In all seriousness, I have to apologise for everything that has happened to you today. Both of you."

    Sam straightened up, "It's no problem, guildmaster." He replied, "I mean, it's no one's fault here. Save for, well…"

    He couldn't bring himself to say Aidan's name.

    "I agree with him." Alice added, with a faint hint of warmth in her voice. That was a small, but helpful amount of reassurance to the Scorbunny's mind.

    "Very well then." Rex confirmed, "Then in that case, I advise you get some rest. You will be safe in your own rooms and in Robinswood, you have my word."

    "Thanks." Sam replied, sliding off the couch. Alice likewise did the same, returning a simple nod to the Blaziken as she started walking out of the office. Sam moved to follow her.

    "By the way Sam." Rex started, prompting the Scorbunny to look back. The bird was still seated, making himself look smaller than if he was bringing his full height to bare. "Tomorrow, it might be a good idea to ask the other recruits if you can join their team. I can hold a place in the guild, but the team requirements are still out of my control."

    Of course. Sam mused, You need a team to work for the guild proper. Safety reason, I suppose.

    "No worries." He replied, "I'll ask around."

    Rex returned a nod, "Then have a good night, Sam."

    Sam strode out of the office feeling more alone then ever. Aidan had been the one constant he had since waking up here. And it had only been a couple of days! And all of a sudden, he was now on the run, no doubt planning his next crime.

    Sure, the other recruits and the guild members - Eck, the entire town – would be on hand. He was certain of that. But right now, Aidan's absence and betrayal had left a hole in his chest.

    He looked up to find the brown form of Alice approaching one of the elevators in the small lobby. In that moment, he realised that he was being an idiot. There had been another constant, if he wasn't being completely blind.

    "A-Alice!" Sam shouted, breaking off into a jog. The Buneary turned towards him, looking tired but not angry as he approached. "I just wanted to say thanks." Sam said. "Properly and not half dead, I mean." He rubbed the back of his head, "If it wasn't for you, I wouldn't still be alive."

    Alice merely shrugged; her eyes closed. "It was nothin'." She replied, "You didn't do half bad yourself."

    Sam nodded gratefully, "If you need anything… well, just let me know alright? I mean, we made a good team there."

    "We got lucky. And it's best if people don't start hearing you say that."

    Sam blinked, "Huh?"

    The Buneary crossed her arms narrowing, "One good thing isn't going to change the fact most people don't like me. Don't get me wrong, you did well there, but if you think I'm going to be all happy about it, I'm not. Aidan still got away, and I'm not looking for friends."

    She started to turn away again. No! Sam growled to himself; I'm not letting you slip away sulking again!

    Against his better judgement, he grabbed hold of her arm. The Buneary immediately spun round, ears coiling to strike. "The hell-"

    "Alice, shut up and listen!" Sam snapped, hard enough for the other rabbit to recoil a touch. "Every single time someone tries to be nice to you, you push them away. Enough that no one seems to be able to work out who you are and they just fall back on this… this damn curse!"

    He narrowed his eyes, "Right now, I'm only person who is even willing to help you out completely. What the hell went so wrong for you to be so hostile? Let me help, please I owe you that!"

    Alice glared back at him, "You don't have any idea what I've had to put up with." She hissed, body shivering as if being restrained.

    Sam tilted his head, "You're right. I don't." he admitted, "But I've just been betrayed by my friend, and I still have no memory of my life since a few days ago. I'm probably the best you're going to get."

    She kept her burning eyes set on him, and yet, she didn't lunge back at him. Even then, he could imagine the gears turning and soon enough, her lips were pressing together and her nose was wrinkling. That conflict bubbling up to the surface.

    "…idiot!" she hissed quietly, one ear popping back up as she tore her gaze away. She hesitated, and Sam released his grip on her arm.

    That seemed to be enough.

    "Follow me." Alice said, climbing onto the elevator.

    As Sam stepped aboard, Alice swung the switch up, and the elevator rose higher up into the tree. Indeed, she didn't get the elevator to stop until they were quite literally at the top. They emerged onto an open-air balcony amidst the huge branches of the tree. A single building was built into what was the upper most part of the tree trunk. The carvings of what appeared to be two bird Pokémon stretching their wings over the closed entrance seemed to confirm it as the TalonKnight Post Office.

    But instead of going for the entrance, she went round the side of the building. She scanned the wooden wall, tracing her hand across the bark. "I think it was… here."

    Sam noticed her fingers had caught a lip in the bark, and from there, she grabbed hold of it with both hands. Grunting, she pulled a whole section of bark back, revealing an opening inside, big enough to crawl through. "Close it behind you." She said as she made her way inside. Sam followed, making sure to pull back the hatch.

    "What is this?" Sam asked, "Some other way into the Post Office?"

    "It's an old vent." Alice replied, "But it doesn't go into the office, it goes towards the top."

    "And what's there?"

    "You'll see."

    Sam moved behind Alice on his hands and knees, finding himself shrouded in the darkness of the vent. The only indication that he was getting anywhere was the fact he could feel himself move over the bumps in the floor beneath him, and the fact that the vent was sloping upwards.

    Soon enough, light began to shine at the end of the vent, and Sam pulled himself out onto a small wooden balcony, only really a metre and a half in area. A sheer drop greeted him on one side, with only a tiny wooden railing barely a third of his height stopping him from falling to his demise.

    Alice had already sat herself down on the floor, her eyes gazing off into the distance. Sam shivered at the sight of the drop, trying to focus his eyes on the rabbit. "How high up are we?" Sam asked.

    "About as high up as we can get unless you are good at climbing." Alice confirmed.

    "Huh… so… what are we doing up here?"

    The Buneary pointed a finger out into the distance. "That."

    His eyes followed her finger… and he gasped at the sight that opened up before him.

    Standing amongst a vast forest, and standing against the backdrop of distant mountains and the stars above, was the most colossal and breath-taking tree he had ever seen.

    Even at the night, the whole tree was bathed in a soft, warm light. Light that was radiating from its spectacular canopy. Instead of green, the leaves must have been every single shade of the rainbow. Reds, greens, violets, the whole lot. Golden vines hung from that canopy, adding their own light to the tree as a whole. A golden trunk hefted the whole construct into the sky. Altogether, it was massive. So massive that it would make the Guildtree look little more than a sapling. The trunk alone had to be at least five times the width, and the tree three times as tall.

    And that, was a minimum. The whole tree stood proud over its surroundings, like the biggest jewel in a very expensive crown.

    Sam's lungs began to burn, and he quickly realised he wasn't breathing. He gulped in a breath of cold air; eyes fixed on the giant tree. "W-what is that thing?"

    "That's the Tree of Life."

    Frowning, the Scorbunny turned towards Alice. "The Tree of Life?" he asked, "That can't be a thing, right?"

    "Believe it."

    Sam settled himself down next to her, keeping his eyes focused on the colourful tree in the distance. "I've got to admit, it looks pretty." He simply said, not quite finding the right words to explain his awe at the sight of the tree.

    "It is." Alice admitted, "Still going strong even after everything that had happened to it."

    "What's it even supposed to be anyway? Beyond the whole life thing." Sam asked, leaning forward.

    The fellow rabbit shook her head, "I'm not really an expert." She explained, "Apparently that thing is the source of all life on this world."

    "All of it?"

    "Yeah."

    The Scorbunny seemed to lean even further forward, feeling the goosebumps forming on the back of his neck. All life. And this thing had been sat in the Sea for all this time? How the heck did I even miss it? I guess I wasn't high enough each time.

    The awe however turned into confusion. "You said the Tree was still going strong after everything. What do you mean by that?"

    He looked over to find Alice had stiffened, eyes now looking blank as she looked over at the Tree of Life. "Have you heard about something called Dark Matter?"

    Sam frowned, trawling back through his memory. "Only by name." he admitted, "I came across a book with it as a title. What about it?"

    Alice closed her eyes, and Sam leaned back, focusing all of his attention on her.

    "Dark Matter was some kind of entity that ran on negative emotions." She explained, "I don't really care about the details, but it attacked the Tree of Life six years ago."

    "Six years ago-"

    Sam stiffened as the memory resurfaced.

    'The planet nearly got thrown into the sun. Yeah, that was pretty shitty. I mean, friends getting turned to stone?'

    Aidan had told him that. About a horrible crisis six years ago.

    Was that it? Dark Matter was responsible for that?

    "Wait… did it include the planet getting thrown off into space?"

    Alice again seemed to hesitate, before finally nodding. "That's the one."

    "Geez…" Sam whispered, eyeing the tree again. Wondering what kind of power it would take to throw an entire planet into space.

    Only then did Alice's eyes to sharpen, looking over at Sam. "You really have no memory of that?"

    Sensing himself shrink, he looked away towards the balcony floor. He wanted to curse that amnesia of his. He couldn't bring to mind if he had even been around to live through that crisis.

    "Consider yourself lucky then." Alice said softly, leaning back far enough to put her back against the wooden wall behind her. "When Dark Matter attacked, it either corrupted Pokémon to its cause of destroying the world… or it turned them into stone."

    Sam wanted to tell her to shut up. He almost couldn't believe that this Dark Matter was capable of causing so much harm. But as he looked across at her face, and heard how softly she spoke, he knew she wasn't playing him for a fool. Not with how sad she looked.

    "I was only a teenager then." Alice explained. "I can still remember it like it was yesterday."


    "Alice!"

    The Buneary bounced down the stairs like a rocket, going about three steps at a time. Too fast as it turns out, when her foot connected with the corner of the rug. She cried out, struggling to keep her balance as tried to bounce down the last steps. She landed on her feet with a loud thud, the young girl wincing as she stumbled on forward.

    "Alice, I told you to come downstairs! Not to try and break your own neck!"

    Alice looked up to find a Lopunny towering over her. He hands rested on her hips and she looked down with a scrawl on her face, her massive ears swept back behind her.

    Sheepishly, Alice pulled a little grin. "Sorry Mum. Didn't want to keep you waiting." She motioned with a fist pump. "Gotta get out and train."

    The Lopunny held her gaze for a moment longer, seemingly unamused.

    Then the little smile formed. "Well, I did tell you we had to get up early kiddo." She teased.

    "I was getting all warmed up!" Alice protested, pumping her two ears in and out into the air. "All those stretches and jogging in my room, I wanted to make sure I was ready to get started!"

    "So, you got up early." Her mother replied, "Didn't tell me what you were thinking, or rather, got too excited to think about it, then did a warm up in your room. I haven't done a warmup yet." The smile transformed into a cheeky smirk. "Now you'll have to wait for me. And have to do another warm up again."

    It took a moment for her to realise what she had just done. Groaning, Alice stomped the ground. Above her head, she could her mother chuckle warmly. "Oh, don't worry. I'll just warm up on the way to the training ground."

    Alice beamed at the words with painfully obvious delight.

    A little bell rung, "So, how are my two girls doing?"

    The Buneary's grin grew even bigger as she spun towards the entrance of their little cottage. A white furred feline had pushed his way through the door, massive red marks running across his body. He had a massive brown sack slung over his shoulder. The Zangoose flashed a massive grin as he walked through. The Lopunny rolled her eyes, "Happy until you showed up." She purred, clearly in a better mood with the Zangoose's arrival. "We're just about to head over for training now, Sylvain."

    Sylvain's grin got even bigger, "Well, you two better make the most of it. I'll have one heck of a good snack ready when you get back." He plonked the sack down on the floor, the red glint of an apple sticking out of the top. "I managed to pick up some extra apples on the way back from the Trail Office." He explained.

    "Any jobs on the board?"

    "Nope. All clear Tyera."

    She brushed one ear back. "All the more time to train then."

    The little cottage was split between a small kitchen and a lounge by a round wooden table. Reaching over it, Tyera picked up a pair of red fingerless clothes and slipped them on. "Come on kiddo." She said, waving for Alice to follow. "I'll race you there."

    My mum and dad were my whole world. We lived in a small village at the far end of the Air continent, where they worked as explorers.

    They were on an exploration team?

    Yeah. Mum was training me to become an explorer too. I was so excited to go ahead with it. But it was as we were getting ready to go out for another day of training when it happened.

    All of a sudden, the room darkened. The light fading from the windows of the room. Sylvain stiffened, eyes narrowing as he peered through one of the windows. "What the- where did those clouds come from?"

    Alice frowned, feeling her heart beginning to pound. This couldn't be right. It was perfectly sunny just a moment ago. "W-What's going on?"

    Tyera peered outside herself, body already tensioning for a fight. "I'm not sure. A ghost type?"

    "Never seen a ghost type blot out the sky." Sylvain replied.

    "Why would anyone do that?" Alice asked, "C-Could it be a prank?"

    "I don't know kiddo." Tyera said, her expression stern as she scanned the surroundings of the cottage. "Just stay away from the windows."

    CONSIDER THIS A WARNING TO ALL POKÉMON IN THIS WORLD!

    Alice recoiled as the voice boomed, moving to cover her ears. But then she realised, it wasn't a sound. It was coming from inside her head!

    Tyera and Sylvain jerked upright, sharing a worried glance between each other. They could hear it too!

    I AM YVELTAL! I AM THE ONE TRUE DESTROYER! I AM THE END OF ALL POKÉMON!

    "What in the blazes is this!?" Sylvain growled, claws flashing. "This is some kind of trick!"

    "Mum!" Alice asked, voice quivering, "What is going on!"

    Tyera backed away from the door, wrapping one arm around her daughter protectively. "Stay close to me!" she hissed, eyes flicking from window to window. "Syl, I don't think this is."

    ALLOW ME TO DEMOSTRATE. NOW I SHALL SEND ALL POKÉMON OF THIS WORLD… TO THE VOID! I SHALL SNATCH AWAY THE ENERGY OF ALL POKÉMON!

    "M-Mum…"

    Sylvain had backed up to join his family, defensively raising his claws up.

    IT IS ALREADY TOO LATE FOR YOU TO POSSIBLY ESCAPE. NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE IN THE WORLD… NO MATTER HOW FAR YOU RUN… I SHALL HUNT YOU DOWN. YOU WILL BECOME NOTHING! PREPARE YOURSELVES FOR THE COMING OF MY WRATH! TREMBLE BEFORE THE GREAT TERROR I SHALL UNLEASH! FEEL THE UNENDING DESPAIR I SHALL BRING TO THE WORLD!

    Alice felt her mother's grip tighten around her. "Stay close Alice!"

    In that moment, they were plunged into darkness.

    Alice shivered, eyes looking glassy for a flicker of a moment before shaking her head. "It became light again not long afterwards, but down in the village, people were starting to turn into stone. One by one. No one knew who was actually doing it, but there was no trace of those responsible. But we had a good guess."

    Sam went cold at the words, "Yveltal. Who – what was that?"

    The Buneary barely glanced at him. "A Legendary Pokémon. More powerful than even Volcanion." She explained. "I don't really care on what it was, but they say it's the Pokémon of Destruction."

    The hairs on the back of his neck raised up, the air seeming to freeze around him now at the mere thought of such a Pokémon. One powerful enough to turn people to stone. A literal god of destruction, if the legendries were any indication. Volcanion was bad enough. To have a Pokémon with that kind of power…

    "As it turned out, it wasn't Yveltal that went for us in end." Alice said, "It was someone else who causing problems in our village."

    "Someone else had that power?"

    "Not quite, but they had the same power Yveltal had thanks to Dark Matter." Closing her eyes, she puffed out a quiet breath. "He went on through the entire village at the head of a possessed group of Pokémon… before he finally found us…"

    "Get inside! I'll keep them busy!"

    "Sylvain you can't deal with him alone!" Tyera shouted, wincing as she held onto one side.

    "Just get her somewhere safe for now! If you're going to fight with me at least do that!"

    Tyera pulled Alice sharply into their now darkened cottage. Shadows clung to every piece of furniture and every feature inside. "Mum! Let go of me!" Alice barked, trying to shake herself free of her mother's iron grip on her arm. "I can fight too!"

    The Lopunny flashed her teeth into a snarl back at her, "You aren't ready for this kind of fight!" she stressed, pulling her towards the centre of the room and throwing a rug aside to reveal a hatch in the floor. "You'll do more good by staying safe."

    She lifted up the hatch to reveal a small space underneath the floor. "Get in!" she hissed.

    "No!" Alice snapped, stamping on the ground and struggling to hold back tears. "I'm not a kid anymore! Let me help!"

    Tyera looked ready to scream at her daughter's face, eyes burning with not only rage, but fear too. But some force held her back at the last second, and instead, she crouched down and took the Buneary's hands in her own. "Alice." She whispered, "We need you to be able to get away. If we can't stop these… these things here they could cause more harm elsewhere. You need to hide. Wait this out, and if we can't stop them here, you need to run. Run, run and run. Warn any other Pokémon of the danger and find help."

    Alice looked up at her mother, sensing the fur along her cheeks beginning to get wet. "But Mum… please… I can't just leave you and dad alone…"

    "Tyera!" her father barked, "That grass-type asshole is coming! Hurry up!"

    Tyera flinched briefly, glancing over her shoulder at the shout of Sylvain. Alice's body quivered, her heart slowing as it became apparent there was no changing her mother's mind. The Lopunny scanned the room… and found a single blue object lying on the table. She quickly scurried to collect the plate shaped object, complete with small orbs on the edge, and brought it back to Alice's side. "I know an old friend."

    Alice blinked, "A friend?"

    "A very old friend." She explained, "He'll come to help. If all else fails, I'm counting on you to find him, and tell him everything that happened here. Understand?"

    "But Mum-"

    Her mother grasped onto her shoulders, leaning in and quietly whispering to Alice's ear.

    A moment passed, and she pulled away. "That is his name. This is your mission. Find him west of here. Tell him everything. Learn from him. Understand?"

    Alice was struggling to hold back the tears, still mentally begging for her mother to let her stay. But this was it. It was a mission. Something to help people. And even with her youth, she could see its importance. If this was to be…

    Shakingly, Alice nodded. She turned, and climbed down under the floorboards.

    "Alice?"

    She looked up to find her mother reaching back down, her red gloves now off and in her grasp. "Keep these safe, will you?" she pulled a wink. "I'll want them back."

    Even with her cheeks wet, Alice managed to slip out a tiny giggle as she took the gloves. Tyera looked down upon her daughter one more time.

    Alice could see a little tear of her own forming.

    "I love you kiddo."

    And with that, she shut the trapdoor and threw the rug over the top, shrouding Alice into an even darker shadow. The only light she could see was through subtle cracks in the floorboards above her heads.

    For the next few minutes, she sat there in silence. Doing her best not to breath too loudly, holding the gloves close to her chest.

    Then she could hear the thuds. The bangs. The slashes. She could feel each blow resonate through the ground. Each one shaking particles off the floor panels and down into the small hide away.

    Alice jerked back as the screaming started. Pained and feral. Was it her mother? Her father? There was no way to tell.

    With a final piercing scream, the air finally fell silent.

    The Buneary remained still, ears peeled for any sign of a victory cheer. To hear mother return and assure her they were okay.

    Instead, she heard the door creak open. And the footsteps thump against the floorboards. She held her breath.

    "Well, well, well." Came a voice, twisted into a strange accent. One that Alice didn't recognise. "You done hidin' here? I reckon those Pokémon brought you in here just for t'at."

    Shivering, Alice clamped her mouth shut, desperately trying to hold her breath. No… no…

    The new arrival stepped further into the cottage; a little cackle evident in his voice. "Come out child." He said, "It'd all be over soon…"

    A shadow formed in the cracks above her head. It was right on top of her now.

    "Hmm… I wonder if you're right… down-"

    His voice was suddenly cut off, the shadow stiffening. Alice folded herself back deeper into the hole, trying to make herself less visible, holding her breath.

    "T-they're nearly there! At the Ruins! Hmph! I'll be right there!"

    The shadow withdrew, but not before his voice brushed past her ears one more time. "Don't worry little 'un. Your time will come."

    He stepped out of the house, and with that, he was gone.

    Alice stayed there, remaining silent. Waiting. Waiting for any sign of the invader or anything else returning. But nothing came.

    Finally, the tension became too much, and gritting her teeth, Alice kicked herself up, ears jabbing out together. She smashed the hatch up, tossing the rug aside as she scrambled out of the hole. Please, please be okay!

    She sprinted for the door, left slightly ajar and barrelled through it into the night.

    Alice found herself alone, the sky covered in thick black clouds. Her head flicked left and right, trying to search for any sign of her parents. "Mum!" she shouted, "Dad!"

    Her eyes finally settled on a dark lump, a few metres away from the cottage. That… that isn't supposed to be there…

    She slowly approached, the crackle of thunder booming over her head. "Mum?" she whispered, "Dad?"

    Alice was almost on top of it when purple lightning flashed above her. She gasped, stumbling back and falling to the floor.

    She looked upon her parents, her mother cradling her father in her arms. Both with their eyes closed.

    Turned to stone.

    Alice dipped down her head, eyes squeezed shut. "I wouldn't leave for ten minutes. Trying to work out how to get my parents out. But I remembered what my mother told me to do. I left the village, looking to try and find that one person she had mentioned. But I didn't get far before… well, the Tree of Life was killed by Dark Matter and me and everyone else got turned to stone."

    Sam felt ever more chilled to the bone as Alice told her tale. He barely even registered the fact that everyone else got turned to stone. No. They were dead. The lot of them. But as horrible as it sounded, he wouldn't wish what Alice had to go through to anyone.

    "I thought that was it. Dead. No hope for the future. But a team of Pokémon managed to defeat Dark Matter, saved the Tree of Life and seemed to revive us. When I realised what had happened from one of the other villagers, I ran back home. I thought Mum and Dad would be there, waiting for me."

    She visibly stiffened, and it was all too clear to the Scorbunny what the answer actually was. Alice hissed as she drew a fresh, if shaky breath in. "But they were still there. Still stone. I waited for days, thinking that they were just late in getting pulled out. But…" she visibly gulped. "They never did."

    Unable to hold himself back, Sam reached out towards Alice and placed a hand onto her shoulder. He held his nerve as the Buneary instantly flinched, half worried she would throw the arm – or him – off. But as she started to relax, the Scorbunny finally spoke up again. "Alice… I'm so sorry." He managed to say softly, not wanting to imagine what that felt even felt like.

    Slowly nodding, she continued, "Over those few days, the villagers started to believe this rumour going round. A rumour about how I was alive and yet my parents weren't."

    The chill was now finally being challenge, a little flame sparking inside the Scorbunny's chest. "No…" Sam started, already shaking his head as his ears stiffened upright and his eyes narrowed. "They can't have used that. What the hell were they thinking?"

    "They thought 'bout it enough." Alice took in another breath. "They called me cursed. They thought I had something to do with Mum and Dad dying. Maybe even worked with Dark Matter to do it. Some even thought I wanted to bring Dark Matter back. I got stared down at first, then people started throwing rocks at me. Then two weeks after we all came back… they… they…"

    She thudded the balcony with one hand. "They came to the orphanage I was staying at. The whole village. And they bloody burnt it down."

    Sam very nearly did the same, the cold now driven away and replaced with the hot, simmering flames of anger. He almost wished he was there right now, try and shake some sense into those villagers. But he was no master of time, and he struggled to hold his tongue.

    "I had already fled before they arrived though. I knew I couldn't stay there anymore. I remembered what Mum told me again and set off west. Word of advice? Try not crossing Air Continent alone."

    The flames cooled a touch, "Y-You went across a whole continent?"

    "Yeah. It wasn't easy. Air still had fissures and rough terrain left over from the original disasters, so progress was slow. I had to try and run through Mystery Dungeons because the alternative was just… impassable."

    "I don't even want to think about how you managed that."

    Alice looked down towards the floor, "I… just got lucky. I managed to get past Mount Blaze but after that I was exhausted. I had eaten or had water for days before I finally just passed out. I still remember it now. This grassy patch near this cave. I figured it would be a nice place to die."

    And for the first time, Alice's eyes sparkled. "That's when my uncle found me."

    Sam blinked, "Your uncle?"

    A little smile formed on Alice's lips. "He's not really my uncle. He was the old friend Mum had contacted. He had been over on another continent and was heading over to find me. He took me under his wing when I had nowhere else to go. Taught me everything I know."

    His own smile began to emerge, but that was cut short as Alice's own faded away. "Eventually however, one of the Pokémon from my old village came to town and saw me there. The talk about the 'curse' came back, and eventually we had to move again. About a year ago, we came here and with that, the curse."

    She closed her eyes again, "No one was setting fire to anything anymore. But I was now just ostracised wherever I went. I was some kind of witch or troublemaker." She spat the last sentence out, "After spending so many years trying to prove otherwise… I just had enough. If they thought I was a jerk at best, I'd be a jerk right back."

    There was a little twitch in the corner of her mouth. "Started off by punching the lights of one nasty piece of work. Never bothered me again after that."

    Sam tore his eyes away. The image of it all was too much for him to put up with. She's had to deal with losing her parents and being pushed out by everyone who hears of this… bullshit conspiracy! For six years! What kind of assholes would ever do this! He clenched his fist, he almost wished that village which had pushed her out had burnt to the ground itself.

    He mentally winced at that. He knew that was too morbid a thought, but to push her out like that when she needed help? No wonder she was so angry a lot of the time. The fact she managed to hold onto herself for that long was just staggering.

    He certainly wasn't that strong willed.

    "So there." She finished. "You know my entire life story now."

    He looked towards her again, the Buneary's eyes fixed on the tree in the distance. He knew it was his turn to reply. But he wasn't sure what would be best to say. I need to offer support… but… how?

    "Alice." He managed to start, "I can't begin to imagine what that was like for you. I'm so sorry this happened to you… if I could do anything to change that, I would."

    Alice merely shrugged, rubbing Sam's hand loose. "I've had six years to deal with it." she said, "It's fine."

    "Do you… have anything to remember them by?"

    Looking over to her side, she reached one paw out towards a groove in the floor that ran on her side. She hesitated, before reaching her fingers inside and pulling out a pair of red gloves, far too big to fit her hands.

    Sam tilted an ear at the sight of them, "Your mother's gloves?"

    "Yeah." Alice replied, "They were all I could bring with me when I ran away."

    She tightened her grip on the gloves. "That's why I wanted to join the guild." She explained, "I wanted to follow in my parents and my uncle's footsteps." Her eyes narrowed, "And perhaps one day. I'll find the Pokémon that killed mum. And dad too. And I'll make him suffer."

    The Scorbunny shivered at the words. A part of him knew that was just… wrong. Going for revenge in that kind of way? That would probably harm Alice more than help her. But at the same time, he couldn't blame her for that.

    She sighed, putting the gloves down. "I shouldn't be thinking about that, especially since I doubt the Guild wants me."

    "Rex and Esper seemed okay with you."

    "They would be. But not everyone else."

    "I would be fine with you being around."

    Frowning, Alice turned towards him. Sam swallowed, realising what he had just said. Well… after everything that has happened, this is the least I can do for her. And I don't… I don't want her wallowing in pain on her own any longer.

    "Look." Sam said, turning himself round to face her fully. "I know you don't think people trust you. But you just telling me that means you trust me."

    "That's different fro-"

    "Alice." Sam interrupted her. "I trust you as well. And I want to help you in whatever way I can."

    He hesitated for a moment, continuing. "Alice… you want to be in the guild. And at this point the Guild seems like the best option for me. How about we form a team?"

    Now it was Alice's turn to flinch, a flicker of confusion on her face. "You can't be serious."

    "I mean it." Sam stressed, "We made one hell of a team against Aidan and in the dungeons. We could do a lot of good with the Guild, and maybe we can get a bit of what we want to. You get to follow in your parent's footsteps and I might learn about my past. Either way, I'd happen to count on you… partner."

    He reached out one hand towards her, letting a little smile form on his face. "So, what do you say?"

    Alice looked down towards his open palm. He didn't feel like he had to do this. He felt obliged to do so. He genuinely believed they could really form a good team. And if he could be there to help Alice, he would.

    The Buneary looked back up at him, a smile of her own forming. "I'll be honest. You're not half bad Sam."

    Sam closed his eyes, grin getting even bigger. "Thanks! You're not bad ei-"

    "No thanks on the team."

    The Scorbunny jerked upright so suddenly, he swore he heard his bones crack. "H-Huh?"

    Alice pushed herself back to her feet. "I know what you are trying to do. You are trying to be a bit of a hero and help me out. I appreciate it."

    She crossed her arms, not in a display of anger. Instead, she seemed more relaxed than before. "But hanging around me… tends to cause a lot of trouble down the line."

    "I don't give a damn about that!" Sam cursed, pushing himself back up. "I'll put up with any crap thrown over!"

    "You don't understand." Alice said calmly, "Just being associated with me would put a big target on your back. You've just come flying out of nowhere yourself, so Pokémon are still making their first impressions of you. To team up with me would sour your image. Many won't trust you for it, and might even spread rumours about you too. My uncle nearly got caught up in it just by looking after me"

    She shook her head, "I can't allow that to happen to you too."

    He couldn't believe it. Just when he figured they were getting somewhere, she was pushing him back out of arm's length. "Come on Alice. Let them spread rumours, I'll prove the-"

    Alice was already moving to slip past him. "You'll thank me later." She said, heading for the tunnel leading back to the front. She stopped just short of it, not looking back towards him. But it was clear there wasn't a shred of tension in her body. "You're a good person Sam." She added softly, "You don't need me cluttering your life up."

    Sam couldn't respond as she entered the tunnel, "Enjoy the view." She finished, disappearing into the darkness.

    He stared at the entrance for the better part of a minute, trying to process Alice's last words to him. For someone to be so badly affected by such a troubled past that they would push away any sign of friendship to protect the other in question?

    The fire fading away once more, Sam turned his gaze back onto the colourful shape of the Tree of Life in the distance. How could something kill you? He questioned, You may have come back to life… but it seems like the scars left behind might not be healing anytime soon…
     
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  • Threadmarks
    • Krazyfan1 said:
    i wonder if the parents would be un-stoned when the tree finishes healing?
    Click to expand...
    Click to shrink...
    Given what Dark Matter was, no wonder it'd have trouble bringing everyone back in that town, given that they are such massive assholes.
    Jokes aside, aww honey. This hurts even more with the knowledge that there is an specific cure for the Stone thing, outside of the general revitalization.
     
    Sam: You're my friend now
    Alice: No
    Sam: LET ME IN TO YOUR CIRCLE OF SUPPORT
    Alice: NEIN
     
    Krazyfan1 said:
    i wonder if the parents would be un-stoned when the tree finishes healing?
    Click to expand...
    Click to shrink...

    JBcristal said:
    Given what Dark Matter was, no wonder it'd have trouble bringing everyone back in that town, given that they are such massive assholes.
    Jokes aside, aww honey. This hurts even more with the knowledge that there is an specific cure for the Stone thing, outside of the general revitalization.
    Click to expand...
    Click to shrink...

    That is a possibility, but given that they didn't return the first time... that might not be entirely possible. And given what happened to the Luminous Water...

    Zowo said:
    Sam: You're my friend now
    Alice: No
    Sam: LET ME IN TO YOUR CIRCLE OF SUPPORT
    Alice: NEIN
    Click to expand...
    Click to shrink...

    Sam: COME ON, LET ME HEL-
    Alice: *punches him* CUT IT OUT.
     
    Chapter XXII - Insurence
  • Threadmarks
    • Apologies for the extremely long delay in releasing this chapter. But life has been extremely hectic for me. I've been balancing a bunch of different projects for the last few months, namely trying to balance out my different bits of writing and art. On top of that, I've recently been involved in extensive training for a new career, so that has eaten up alot of my time which has made things more difficult. But this chapter essentially sets the stage for the finale of this first episode. There is alot of stuff I want to do with GoB down the line, so any support and discussion about this would be greatly appreciated, along with any feedback you might have to offer!

    Thanks again for the wait, and I hope you enjoy that chapter!

    POKÉMON MYSTERY DUNGEON​
    GUARDIANS OF BALANCE​

    ALWAYS AUDACITY
    CHAPTER XXII – INSURENCE    ​

    Most of the lights in Robinswood were now out, as the inhabitants of the small town were now turning in for the night. Even the Guildtree itself seemed darker than before as those working within finished their business. The streets and the paths that connected the different buildings together were empty and devoid of any life, save for a handful of Guild members quietly patrolling in pairs. No one was ever on their own.

    One of those pairs stood by the entrance of the Guildtree, both scanning the trees and the square for any sign of potential movement. They were in the middle of a quiet conversation between themselves when something crackled within the town itself.

    Jerking to attention, the pair stepped away from the entrance, trying to pinpoint the source.

    That was when the dark shape bounced in behind them and straight through the entrance with them none the wiser.

    Aidan touched down inside the empty lobby, his eyes flashing left and right for any contacts. But none appeared, not even those damn Meowth were at the desk as they usually were. He reached round to his satchel, tapping on the selection of orbs held within. They weren't the standard run of the mill orbs. They were new, experimental models alongside some older types. He didn't have to use an Invisify Orb for a start. Good thing too. They weren't really made anymore officially. Especially after some of the issues became apparent with the mental problems they could cause. And if there were any of the replacement Stealth Orbs in existence, he hadn't found them.

    Best he didn't use those rare tools until they were needed.

    He moved towards one of the smaller doorways off to one side of the lobby, that was where his objective was waiting for him.

    Most would consider this plan foolish, but this was a contingency that was too useful for him to pass up on. Especially-

    The elevator creaked above his head, and in silence, the Frogadier rolled off to the side, hiding himself behind a large crate stacked at the edge. Damn it, who the hell would still be leaving now!?

    He peered round the corner of the crate, observing the elevator touch down and open up.

    Stepping out into the lobby was a familiar white and red rabbit.

    Aidan stiffened, tightening his grip on the crate. Sam…

    Sam had his hands stuffed in the pockets of his jacket; head bowed as he walked across the lobby. Aidan narrowed his eyes as he watched, Rebecca's done her work, he's looking better already.

    The frog's thoughts darkened. He could take him out. Grab him, pull him into the shadows, break his neck whilst no one was looking. Dispose the body in one of the crates and carry on with his task. It would be so cathartic. Aidan had to admit, trying to bring Sam into the rest of his life was a risky move, especially so soon. But that bond they had… he thought that would be enough. He trusted him! Vengeance would be so…

    He bit down on his tongue, resisting the urge to attack. No. Even if he could kill him now, everyone would immediately realise that Aidan would have done the deed. He didn't need a bigger target on his back right now on top of what he was about to do now. And besides, given that bowed appearance, the Scorbunny seemed to be tumbling emotionally right now anyway. To jump in now…

    Aidan couldn't tell if he was feeling cruel or pitiful.

    Regardless, he watched Sam wander out of the Guildtree and stepped back into the open, heading towards the door he was looking for and made his way through. A corridor curved downwards into the ground, and Aiden silently jogged down it towards the lower levels, wrapped around the roots of the tree itself. He had never been down here before, but he was already familiar with the layout. Getting his hands on the floor plans was certainly worth the effort.

    The corridor itself didn't branch off in any other direction, and at the end he found himself standing before a large metal door, easily large enough to allow for the likes of all but the biggest Pokémon access whilst also being very difficult to break down. At least by some manner of physical strength or the power of specific moves. Wouldn't be a very good door if anyone could just open it.

    Reaching into his satchel, Aidan pulled out an average sized red orb that was cool to the touch. Rubbing it between his hands, he focused his attention on it as the object as it sharply began to heat up in his grasp. He pressed it against the wall, "Three, Two, One…"

    He pulled his hands back, leaving the red orb to remain fixed within the surface of the metal. It brightened as much as a cheri berry. And then the sparks flew off the orb, the object beginning to shrink as the metal started to glow, and then quickly began to melt under the sheer heat.

    Aidan could help but smirk as the molten metal fell away from the centre of the door, pooling into a steaming pool of red goop on the stone floor. He blew out a little Bubble attack at the opening, a faint hiss and crackle tickling at his ears. Barely waiting for it to cool, he hopped on through to find himself where he needed to be.

    To his right was a long corridor, lined with what appeared to be cell doors, also made of the same material as the outer door. On his left, behind a wooden table and slumped over it was the familiar shape of a Sableye. Its crystal eyes were unmoving and 'open', yet given he could hear the faint snoring rising it was all too clear that the Pokémon was asleep.

    Aidan didn't take any chances though. Reaching back into the satchel, he pulled out a small wooden stick and waved it towards the Sableye. With a flash of golden light at the tip, a tiny star blinked towards the guard and touched him on the head. He stiffened, seemingly disturbed before he started snoring again, more deeply than before.

    The slumber wand disintegrated into golden specks in hand, and without barely a second glance at the firmly asleep Pokémon, Aidan made his way deeper into the prison. He strode past each of the cell doors until he found the one he wanted and slid open the viewport.

    Within a small cell, was a large blue Pokémon that leaning against the wall. The massive amphibian stiffened and lifted his head up towards the viewport, a toothless, unwelcome smile forming.

    "Boss." Greg rumbled.

    Aidan tilted his head, lips twitching. "How did you figure it out it was me?"

    The Swampert sighed as he pushed himself up to his feet. "I've seen enough of those headaches to know you were ready to evolve. So, what are you doing here? Can't be just wanting to gloat at some crook like me?"

    "I couldn't be bothered to do even that." Aidan explained, casually leaning against the cell door and gazing at his hand. "Certainly not worth wasting some rare and valuable Orbs just to pay a visit."

    He narrowed his eyes, crossing his arms in disapproval. "Especially after you screwed up so badly."

    Greg stiffened up, eyelid twitching in subtle rage. "Come the hell on." He growled, "That was an accident! Besides that team was asking for it in the en-"

    "I didn't order you to kill them." Aidan coldly and quietly snapped.

    Two giant fists pounded against the metal of the cell door, the bang echoing through the prison like a wave. Aidan felt his body shudder under the impact through the metal, but it didn't faze him at all. It was a pointless and meaningless gesture. Nothing more.

    Aidan rolled his head back, and let out a quiet yawn. "My my. What a foul tempered Swampert."

    Quivering, Greg grumbled as he pulled his fists away from the door. But he said nothing else.

    Satisfied, Aidan reached back into his satchel as he pulled out another one of the red orbs. "What I have here is an experimental orb." He explained, "It's a Scorch Orb. Very rare. Very illegal. Burns through near enough anything. Metal. Wood. Pokémon." He juggled the orb in one hand. "Naturally makes it dangerous. One of the few things the continents, guilds and societies could actually agree on was destroying every single record on making them so no humble craftsmon could try and replicate them. Well, so they say. Good news is, I smuggled a few of these bad boys in as… insurance."

    He turned his gaze back onto the bandit leader. "I've already used one of these to get in. Luckily, I have this spare. I could use it to get you out of here. But then again, my hand could just slip-"

    Aidan pulled his hand away, allowing the still airborne orb space to fall. Greg's eyes widened, going still as the orb dropped out of sight – and into the Frogadier's other hand. Smiling, he lifted the orb back into view.

    Straightening up and recomposing himself, the Swampert narrowed his eyes. "…what do you want?"

    "Like I said." Aidan replied, "Insurance."


    Sam's ears twitched as the rays of sunlight hit his face. Feeling the warmth soak in, he opened his eyes to find that little window above his head twinkling with white light. A new day. The first time he had woken up in the room since…

    He rolled his head over to look over at the empty bed across the room. It was in a messy state, still not laid out since their return to the town. I suppose Aidan didn't have much of a chance to sleep. Sam mused as he clambered out of the bed. I wonder if he left anything behind. Something that could be useful in Esper's investigation.

    He searched through the contents of Aidan's side of the room. But as he opened his drawer, Sam could only sigh at the sight of what only appeared to be a few wraps of cloth and an empty bag. The lockers yielded little too. Just a scarf and a small bag of berries. Nothing that would point towards Aidan's activities.

    The Scorbunny booted both shut, stretched back and rolled his shoulders. Come on Sam. It's a new day. Just forget about last night. Forget about Aidan betraying you and forget about Alice walking off again.

    How could he forget though? He had trusted Aidan. And Alice… she had admitted to all that pain, and was still so wrapped up in it she wouldn't join another team.

    But as he threw his jacket and googles on, he mentally worked to shove the thoughts aside. Now was not the time to get lost in them. He still had to secure a place on a rescue team. And even if he didn't, he couldn't stay couped up all day.

    With the thoughts compartmentalised away, Sam let himself pull a weak smile, if only briefly, and wondered out into the day. He followed the paths back through the trees towards the square and the Guildtree. He watched as the crowds of Pokémon moved between building to building. Or from shop to shop for that matter. The way they happily chatted and bartered with one another. A few hearty laughs here and there. Even a few giggles from what Sam imagined were children. There was signs of an increased guild presence, judging by the extra Pokémon standing on guard around the outskirts and at the base of the tree with their own unique armbands. But beyond that… it was just as normal a day as any. Much like how he first arrived here.

    Given what has happened… I'm surprised this place can just, I don't know. Brush things off maybe?

    Walking past a pair of guards, he wandered on back into the Guildtree and its lobby.

    It was already far busier this time round, there were multiple teams moving across the floor and accessing the stairs and lifts. The three different Meowth were jogging back and forth between the desk and the series of cabinets at the back, no doubt trying to fill the requests that were being thrown their way.

    Sat at the front desk was the familiar shape of Bruce, tapping his foot away as waited for one of the Meowth to come running back round to him. Given Bruce was the only one he both recognised and knew in some way, Sam stuffed his hands into his pockets and strolled up to join him. "Hey Bruce."

    The Bulbasaur turned towards him with a massive smile, "Sam! Doing good?"

    "Been better." Sam replied, rubbing the back of his head. "How about you?"

    Bruce nodded back towards him. "Yep! Just waiting to get details on the new team done. What about you? Gonna get set up with Aidan an-"

    He visibly stiffened at the name, mouth twitching open and shut. Sam's ears dipped a bit. "Word travels that fast huh?"

    "Yeah…" Bruce admitted, seeming to shrivel up. "I only heard about it this morning." He shook his head, "Sorry dude, I tried to distract myself by getting everyone signed up but well-"

    The words died on the top of the Pokémon's tongue. Sam could feel the mood dampen even further. Better change the topic quick.

    "Let's forget about that." Sam replied, "Any idea on a team name?"

    "A team name… oh yeah!" Bruce exclaimed, standing up. "We're still working on that."

    Sam tilted his head at that, "Don't you need one before signing up or something?"

    "Not at the start. Shouldn't be much longer though. I mean, we can't use Team Forest anymore. Nia wants to be Team Go-Getters or Poképals."

    It took a couple of seconds for Sam to realise what Bruce had just said. The Scorbunny could already sense his face twisting, cringing at the names. "Go-Getters? Poképals? Really?"

    Bruce himself seemed to shrivel up at the words, "Yeah… not my kind of name. They kinda have a good ring but…" the Bulbasaur pulled the best shrug he could, "Not what you would call epic."

    Sam nearly choked out a chuckle, "Epic huh?"

    "Come on man-"

    "Relax Bruce. I'm pulling your leg." He hesitated, "Or vine."

    "Very funny." Bruce replied with a smirk.

    Sam grinned, a pleasant warmth filling his chest. "In all seriousness, I'm sure you'll come up with something good."

    The Scorbunny stiffened further upright, recalling Rex's words on finding a new team. "Actually." he started, relaxing in front of his fellow initiate. "I was wondering if you coul-"

    He caught a flash of red and yellow in the corner of his vision, and with the sentence fading away, Sam turned to find Rex strolling across the lobby, Esper moving alongside him. Huh? What's Rex doing down here?

    "Hey Sam? What's up – oh, the guildmaster?" Bruce questioned, "You need something off him?"

    "Not really…" Sam replied, focusing his gaze on the two Pokémon as they approached a door on one side of the lobby. It was there, impatiently pacing at the portal was a Sableye. "The jailer…" Sam mused, ears going more erect. He watched as the Ghost-type almost leapt upright as the two higher ranked Pokémon approached him and quietly uttered a few words between them. Sam leaned over, trying to listen in. But the din of the surrounding crowd of Pokémon was just too much even for his ears to pick out their voices. But judging from the rather skittish gestures that the jailer was making…

    Something's wrong.

    Rex nodded at the Sableye and made his way through the door, Esper and the jailer following close behind.

    "Weird." Bruce started, "That Sableye seemed a bit-"

    Sam was able to hear the Bulbasaur choke over his shoulder. "W-Sam! Where are you going!"

    Already jogging for the door, Sam barely glanced back, "I'm taking a look!"

    "W-What!? No! We can't-"

    The Bulbasaur growled, his footsteps clattering behind him as Sam slipped his fingers through the closing door and slipped on through.

    He entered a stone corridor, quite a bit different compared to the likes the interior of the Guildtree. Bruce grunted behind him, the Bulbasaur barely managing to squeeze through the gap before the door closed. "Sam!" he hissed, "We aren't allowed down here!"

    "I need to know what's going on." Sam replied, narrowing his eyes as he started to jog down the corridor. "I think it's to do with Aidan."

    "Aidan? What the hell has he got to do with the-" his voice teetered off. "Shit. Wait, what would Aidan have to do with this place… whatever it is. Jail?"

    "Must be." Sam replied, "Aidan was a smuggler, there might be something down here he is after."

    "On top of trying to… err… you know."

    "Kill me." Sam grunted, "Yeah, I know."

    It didn't take long before voices started rising up further down the corridor… and soon enough, the ruined prison door. Sam struggled to stop the gasp, seeing the puddles of molten metal piled round the entrance.

    "Holy." Bruce whispered, "Any idea what caused this?"

    "Beats me." Sam replied, "Quiet. I'm trying to listen." He said, focusing on the voices.

    "…on't get it! I would have woken up!"

    "The door was likely covered by an orb." Rex stated. "As for you not waking up, it would have to be a Slumber wand. Probably as a pre-"

    "Sorry old man." Esper interrupted, "We've got guests."

    Sam felt a deep chill settle over his body, a faint blue glow flowing around him. We-what?

    That was when his feet lifted off the floor. Out of his control. He barely heard Bruce stutter in confusion before he suddenly found himself thrown through the hole in the door.

    The flight barely lasted more than a second, as he suddenly jerked to a halt at the entrance to a line of prison cells. It was down this corridor where Rex, Esper and the jailer were standing. The Meowstic's eyes glowed a solid blue, her head tilted back as if in mild disinterest. Rex crossed his arms, "Ah, Sam. Bruce."

    Sam blinked as his feet touched the ground again. "H-How did you know we were there?"

    "I'm Psychic." Esper explained as her eyes slowly returned back to normal. "You were loud enough."

    "S-Sorry that we are here guildmaster!" Bruce started, shaking his head, "We didn't mean to-"

    "Relax Bruce." Rex interjected, raising his hands in a calming motion. "You were following Sam, right?"

    Bruce fidgeted on the spot, eyes flicking away, "Yeah."

    The Scorbunny stiffened as Rex turned his gaze on him, "And I'm not surprised you followed us down here."

    Hesitating, Sam nodded. "I figured something was up."

    "That's completely understandable." The Blaziken motioned with one hand, "Come on. You two might as well see this."

    Sharing a glance with Bruce, now looking like he had shaken off his nerves, Sam made his way over to the gathered group. They had been directing their attention to one of the cells – the door had been melted through just as the outer door had. And the cell itself was empty. He glanced at the molten patches, feeling his chest go cold. "Did you say this was due to some kind of orb?" He asked.

    "He did." Esper confirmed, yellow eyes inspecting the markings, "But I've never seen anything like this before."

    "A Scorch Orb."

    Esper's eyes – and by extension Sam's – flicked over to Rex, his arms crossed. "An extremely dangerous Orb type. They were made before the first Rescue Teams were formed."

    Bruce patted a foot on the scorched metal, wincing at the touch. "Sounds like you've seen these before Guildmaster." He visibly swallowed, "Not that I'm suggesting anything."

    "It's a fair observation." Rex reassured him, "And yes. I've seen one once." He closed his eyes. "Let's just say the results weren't pretty. I helped made sure that production of them ceased. But I didn't think any would still exist."

    "If anyone could get them, Aidan could." Sam noted. Granted, he didn't know that for sure. But given what he had just from that one encounter, it would make sense. "But who would Aidan or anyone want to break out?"

    Bruce had wandered into the cell, his eyes widening as he looked at the other side. "Arc-big guy to the looks of it."

    Tilting his head, Sam frowned. "A big guy?"

    His mouth opened to reply, but the Bulbasaur shook his head and bumped it against the door. It squeaked as it swung out, revealing the dozens of dents on the other side. Each one easily bigger than Sam's head.

    The hairs rose up the back of his neck, the Scorbunny immediately stiffening at the sight. He remembered that first day in Robinwood. How that Sableye came running out for help. There was only one Pokémon that could leave that impression."

    "Greg." Sam hissed, sharply enough that he could feel himself coil up.

    "Greg?" Bruce asked, a flicker of confusion evident.

    "A Swampert." Rex stated, "A strong one to boot too." He turned towards Esper, "At the very least, if Aidan did do this, he only elected to release Greg and not his fellow bandits."

    "Perhaps he only needed the leader." Esper noted.

    Sam tapped his foot, his mind whirling to conclusions. "Or maybe he didn't have enough Scorch Orbs."

    "Wouldn't there be keys lying around for that?" Bruce asked.

    The Sableye shuck his head. "Nada. The keys are kept elsewhere in the Tree. Makes it harder to break out!"

    "That still leaves why Aidan would risk coming back here." Esper said.

    "Likely a distraction." Rex suggested, "And at the worst possible time. We still need to send out search teams at once."

    Esper glanced up at the avian. "You said it yourself. We still have a large portion of the Guild monitoring what remains of Broken Wood in case Volcanion remerges."

    Rubbing his wrist, the guildmaster narrowed his eyes. "Greg is still a dangerous threat. I'll dispatch Lance and Reave. They've dealt with Greg's team before."

    "I bet if we find Greg." Sam started; arms crossed as he pulled a determined look their way. "It'll lead to Aidan too."

    Rex pulled a small smile in approval, "You read my mind little one. Esper, cont-"

    "Guildmaster!"

    Sam spun to find the Bibarel, Oscar, stumbling into view at the end of the corridor from the entrance. "By golly! I thought you were down here!"

    "Oscar? What's wrong?" Esper asked, eyes widening.

    Panting, the beaver leaned against one of the walls. "It's the port. There's been an explosion!"

    "What!?" Bruce shouted, leaping out of the cell. "I know a few of the guys there! Is-"

    "I don't know! I just heard from one of the Fletchlings that happened to be close by! Poor fella nearly collapsed, how fast he flew. Much of the place is already on fire, and could spread to the nearby forest!"

    Sam swivelled towards Rex, his heart already beginning to pound. There was only one logical suggestion after all of this. "Aidan." He hissed, fists already tightening enough that a tiny part of his mind was worried they would start bleeding.

    Rex clicked his beak in a clear show of agreement. "Indeed." He breathed out with disgust. "Another part of his distraction." He rubbed his forehead, a soft groan escaping his lips. "No doubt he is taking advantage of the fact that we are spread thin. Between Volcanion, protecting Robinwood, Greg and now this…"

    "Guildmaster?" Oscar gently questioned, "What do you want us to do?"

    Letting out a heavy sigh, Rex focused his attention back onto the beaver. "Assemble the guild members. Pull those back searching for Aidan. We'll divert them back to the port, rescue those stuck there and contain the fire."

    Bruce practically bounced at the words, "I'll come too! I'm not leaving those guys to burn! Doesn't matter how hot those flames are, I can take it!"

    "What about Aidan?" Sam questioned, "I'm all up for saving that place as much as the rest of us, but he could still get away." The Scorbunny could feel his body quiver, and a heaviness settle into his stomach. It felt wrong to focus on Aidan, not with everyone else in danger. But every second spent acting on the defence was another opportunity for the smuggler to escape.

    Or to plot something worse.

    Rex held his gaze on Sam for a solid ten seconds, his blue eyes piercing through his own. He felt his heart slow for a second, as if the fire type had somehow turned into an ice type to cool him down. But it didn't last for long, and the Scorbunny merely straightened up. "I'll come and help at the port. But we should keep at least one team out to look for Aidan."

    "Which is why you will be staying here." Rex stated.

    Sam blinked "H-Huh?"

    Rex crossed his arms, raising a brow, "You have the most experience in working with Aidan and contending with Greg. Or rather, the most recent encounters. You will be the most up-to-date with whatever tricks they might try."

    "I barely know them."

    "My point still stands. Plus, if Aidan sees you in a less well defended town…"

    Sam let his mouth drop open as it dawned on him, "Ahh… he might make a run for me."

    "Exactly. And because of that alone," he turned towards Bruce, "I must ask you Bruce to get the other recruits who returned from Broken Wood. You'll form the protection detail."

    "B-But-" Bruce started, only for Rex to raise a finger to stop him.

    "I know you want to help your friends in the port, but I can't leave the town defended by just Sam alone, and I can't pull back anyone from Broken Wood. They aren't just there to act as a tripwire for Volcanion, but it's for anyone who is dares to try and get in. That, and you all don't have the experience to deal with an emergency like this." He motioned a hand towards the Sableye, who immediately jerked up to attention and scurried for the prison entrance. "As for sending a team to focus on tracking Aidan or Greg, I will send our best."

    He turned towards the Meowstic. "Esper. Get Team Spirit ready. Now."

    A determined look forming, Esper nodded back. "Spirit will get it done." She confirmed sharply, before turning to make her way out after the Sableye, with Oscar following close behind. Rex himself directed his attention to the remaining two Pokémon – Sam and Bruce.

    "Listen to me carefully." He started, "I'll hash out key areas to guard and rotations if this takes too long. But whatever you do, focus on protecting Robinwood. Don't try and go on a rescue mission. Send someone to report it to me as soon as you can. Understood?"

    "Yes sir!" Bruce declared firmly, one foot stamping the ground as if coming to attention.

    But Sam himself hesitated, a part of him wanting to chase Aidan and Greg, another wanting to help at the port, but if this needed to be done…

    "You can count on us." He said, sharply nodding back at Rex.


    When they emerged from the prison, Rex had immediately rallied the Guild to action. Rapidly assembling the Rescue Teams to set off towards the port at all speed. Some were already prepared to depart, and led the way through the forests towards the south, whilst others hurried back to their rooms and barracks to gather their equipment. Rex took the opportunity to inform Sam and Bruce of the guarding arrangements for Robinwood, in case of Aidan or Greg suddenly made their return to the town. Arrangements that were soon passed over towards Nia, Dan, Edward, Denver and at last, Alice herself, looking no different than from the following night.

    And with that, the plan was set. The seven successful guild recruits would be split into three separate units, centred around their teams (mostly). Some of the townsfolk were also willing to throw in their support in each spot. Edward and Denver would guard one side of the outskirts whilst Bruce, Nia and Dan would cover the other.

    That left Sam and Alice to guard the town centre and the guild tree itself, the location with the largest number of Pokémon on its own.

    With the final guard details arranged, Rex led the remaining teams out of town, following the vanguard towards the port.

    The mysterious Team Spirit didn't appear. Must have already set off after Greg. Sam figured.

    "Seems like we are stuck together again." Alice mused once they were alone, eyes fixed on the sky. "Not like this though."

    Sam followed her gaze. Hanging above the treetops like an angry giant was a dirty black cloud, the smoke bellowing upwards. When he first stepped out of the tree, it had caught him completely off guard, freezing him in place. But he had just quickly snapped out of it. I couldn't afford to shut down there. That being said…

    "Yeah." He admitted, "I didn't think Aidan would do something like this."

    She huffed at that, "Shows how little you actually knew him."

    He turned away from her, eyes flicking towards the ground, "Yeah, you have a point."

    Sam could make out the quiet shuffle as Alice turned away. "I'm going to do some rounds. You better reassure the locals too. They won't listen to me."

    "Huh?"

    "Curse."

    His heart only sank at that, his clenched fist the only indicator of the anger struggling to surface. The pain that Alice had been thrown through all too familiar to him. An event like this would only make people even more unsure of Alice. He let out a heavy sigh, "Alright then. I'll do the same. Be careful."

    Alice grunted in reply, "You do the same."

    The patrols were short and brief, Sam electing to jog through the town at a rapid pace. Whilst there were still Pokémon inside the tower, most weren't fighters like the guild members. Neither were the regular townsfolks for the matter, but losing even part of the Guildtree to any intruders would have been especially bad. Sam took the time to reassure those townsfolk. That the guild teams wouldn't be long, and those still on site were able to look after the place.

    But the hours started to drag on, and with the smoke cloud still towering into the sky, day slowly became night.

    And still no sign of the other Guild members.

    At the entrance to the Guildtree, He took one more look at the sky. Bruce and Edward's teams should be starting their rotations now. That way they could remain fresh.

    It's about time we did the same ourselves.

    He turned towards Alice. "You better get some rest." He started, "I'll stay on watch."

    Alice turned to look at him with a concerned look. "You sure about that?"

    "I'm sure." Sam nodded back. "I've still got some energy on hand. Just try and get down in a few hours for me, alright?"

    She glanced him over once more, before nodding and turning towards the tree entrance. "I'm only a couple of floors up. Holler if you need anything."

    Turning, Alice made her way through the entrance.

    Thirty minutes passed, and Sam was already regretting that he sent Alice first. He was beginning to pace at the entrance, trying to keep his focus on watching over the square and yet, he struggled to reign in the boredom of nothing happening.

    It wasn't just that of course. It was worry too. Aidan or Greg could have been hiding in the darkness. And there was still no word from Rex and the other guild members. Part of him figured that that the flying types would at the very least be sending messages back and forth, but their absence would only seem to indicate how dire the situation actually was at the port. At least in theory.

    He thumped the trunk with an open palm, Dang it! I wish I was out there! It's better than sitting here and doing nothing! He sighed, Then again, this place needs looking after. Rex has a point. But I guess I just prefer getting stuck in with stuff.

    He tilted his head at the thought, Kinda like how much enjoyed the fighting in the dungeon. He mused with a faint chuckle, Is that a Pokémon thing or something else?

    Something rustled over his shoulder.

    The Scorbunny sprung round, foot sliding back to fire off an attack at the new contact and-

    A little white bug crawled round the edge of the Guildtree. Sam felt his entire body crumple at the sight. "Kyle!" he hissed, "What are you doing out here!? You should be at home!"

    The Snom recoiled an inch back, "S-Sorry Mr. Sam! I-I-I-"

    Anger was immediately washed away with regret. Damn, I terrified the poor kid!

    "Hey hey." Sam quickly uttered softly, as he lowered himself down to one knee. "Sorry, I shouldn't have shouted."

    He relaxed as Kyle seemed to creep forward again, the fear quickly fading. Water of the duck's back huh? He calmed down quick. Putting the thought aside, he lowered himself further. "But what are you doing out here? Aren't you going to worry your mum?"

    The kid's little eyes sparkled, "I'm looking for Papa." He declared, trying to sound as determined and brave as he could. "I want to help him."

    Sam let out a quiet sigh, feeling his heart sink a touch. Jack was going to go crazy if Kyle had gone wandering off. "Even if I knew where your dad was, that is a bad idea. He's probably really busy right now helping everyone, and the last thing he needs is to be worrying about you." He frowned, "How did you get past… Bruce, Nia and Dan?"

    "That's a secret!" Kyle giggled, and Sam couldn't help but chuckle at his comment.

    "Of course it is." He managed to reply with a tinge of sarcasm, before flicking his gaze between the Guildtree and the path leading to the barracks. I really need to get him back home. His mum's going to be scared to heck and back. But I can't leave this place unguarded.

    "Alright." He started, "I'll get you back home, I just need to wake up my friend first."

    Kyle slumped a little at the words. "Do I have to?"

    "Think of it this way." Sam countered softly with a friendly smile, patting the little ice-type on the side. "You can help look after your mum and everyone in the barracks whilst I keep an eye on the square. Do you like the sound of that?"

    The little Snom nodded, eyes brightening again. "I-I do!"

    "Good." Came the rumble. "Luckily you ain't got to worry about that."

    Sam stiffened, feeling the voice force its way through his chest and shake at his bones. His ears immediately snapped round to the source – behind him.

    Kyle's eyes widened.

    The Scorbunny leapt forward.

    The paw clamped down round his legs. Sam cried out as he was yanked down and back, his head barely skimming past the ground as some invisible force lifted him up into mid-air. Quite literally. There was nothing standing behind him.

    Then the air shimmered, as if light was being bent around one spot in the air before the imposing form of the Swampert revealed itself. "Surprised to see me kid?"

    Flashing his teeth, Sam squirmed in his grasp, trying to glance over his shoulder. "Kyle! Get out of here!"

    Greg pulled his toothless grin as he glanced over at the ice bug, the kid frozen in place. "Don't worry kiddo. I'll show you how you can protect your daddy."

    "Kyle run!"

    Sam recoiled as Greg's face flooded his vision, "You might as well as shut your mouth!" he snarled, "I've been waiting for this!"

    Oh cra-!

    Sam's shout was cut off as his head slammed into the side of the tree.

    Once. Then twice before the bigger Pokémon let the Scorbunny crumple to the floor. Groaning, Sam rolled his head to one side, his ears barely registering Kyle's cry as the Swampert scooped him up with one hand. "You're coming with me – don't try biting me you little shit, or I'll chew you up for breakfast!"

    "H-Help!" Kyle screamed.

    "K-Kyle…" Sam whispered before he finally slipped under.

    "So let me get this straight." Greg grumbled. "You want me to get the Guild breathing down my ass again by doing a spot of kidnapping, whilst you blow up the fricking port… all so you can get your shit out of town?!"

    Aidan narrowed his eyes, still leaning against the cell door. "You've got to understand, I've set up a big operation. That kind of stuff takes time to move around, I need muscle to cover all that."

    "And you would rather waste me on that than one of your regular grunts."

    "And you've got plenty of muscle."

    Big blue fingers tapped away at the metal door, "Doesn't sound like a fair arrangement. That chicken will just get me locked up again."

    Aidan smirked at that, "I let you out, then you at least get the chance to get off this island if you follow my instructions. That, or I'll find another crook and leave you to rot. All you need to do is to keep the Guild occupied for a night so I can get everything moved, I don't care how, what or who you take as long as you get it done."

    Greg narrowed his eyes, and pulled one of his signature smirks. "You know what happened last time. Are you sure you want me to do this?"

    Aidan barely showed any reaction. He's got a point. He'll leave a bloody mess.

    It didn't take him long to decide.

    He held up the Scorch Orb, holding an inquisitive gaze at the Swampert. "Are you?"

    The crook glanced away one more time, then nodded.

    Within moments, the Scorch Orb had faded away, and the metal of the door was bubbling away onto the floor. Greg stood at the threshold, puffing as he inspected the cooling metal before finally stepping through. Aidan took a few steps, more to give the bigger Pokémon room to move than anything else.

    The Swampert narrowed his eyes as he looked down at him. "And if anyone tries to stop me?"

    Aidan crossed his arms, "That's easy." He stated, tilting his head forward and furrowing his brow. "Kill them."

    "H-Heya! A-Are you alright!"

    His head rapidly throbbing, Sam groaned as he rolled over onto his back. "I'm going to have brain damage at this rate." He grumbled.

    "Brain damage?" The voice whispered, "J-come on, don't be stupid! You're lucid aren't you!"

    "Oh give the poor guy a chance. He'll probably get more knocks like that at some point!"

    "Keep running your beak like that and someone might just blow you from the sky."

    The Scorbunny's eyes flickered open to find three Pokémon looking down on top of him. One of them he recognised immediately as Perry, the Corvisquire that he and Aidan 'rescued' from Broken Wood. The other two took a moment longer, but he recalled seeing their faces back in the square once or twice. One was tall, and covered in what appeared to be a light grey metal. Yellow and green eyes looked down upon him. The other looked a bit like a… Chameleon? They were covered in green and yellow scales, albeit with a strange blue stripe running along their belly. A Duraludon and a Kecleon respectively. Ah… they ran the shop and bank here…

    The Kecleon focused her attention on him, "Are you alright?"

    Wincing, Sam managed to push himself up to a sitting position, "I'll live."

    That was when the memory of Kyle rushed through his mind. Panic gripping him, he sprung to his feet. "K-Kyle! Where is he!? Did-"

    "That Swampert took him." The Duraludon confirmed, his metallic fingers clamping open and shut. "Poor kid was frozen on the spot."

    "I don't blame the little one." Perry mused, "A big guy like that would scare the living daylights out of any little bug. Before they are inevitably rescued of course."

    The Kecleon shot a cold glare at the post bird. "This isn't the time for one of your jokes!" she snapped. "Not that my brothers would be much better with selling things. Come on Dural! You have to agree with me there!"

    "As much as Perry is being an ass." Dural started, "He has a point, Larissa. Most of the town folk are too scared to come out. And us three weren't fast enough to out here, being on the other side of town and not in the stores. Except Perry – so called fastest post-bird around my ass."

    As Dural stomped the ground, Perry flashed a wounded look, "I was further away than the rest of you! I'm fast, but I don't have super hearing."

    "Alright enough!" Sam barked, snapping the three Pokémon back to attention. "Did any of you at least see where Greg went!"

    Larrissa nodded sharply back at him, a determined look on her face. "He wasn't stealthy leaving for sure." She jabbed a finger over her shoulder. Leaning to the side, he found that part of the undergrowth to one side of the Guildtree had been crushed, low hanging branches snapped like twigs. "How he got in is a better question."

    "He was invisible." Sam breathed, his chest quivering at the feeling of Greg's voice rumbling through it. "Never knew Swampert can do that."

    "They can't." Dural noted, "He must have used an Invisify Orb."

    He hummed to himself, eyes looking towards the sky. "Not many of those left…"

    Sam flashed his buckteeth, "Aidan…" he growled, before shaking his head. "Alright, that doesn't matter. Greg's took Kyle." He stiffened himself, readying himself for the response even as he barely thought about it, "I'll go after him."

    "Are you serious!" Larissa exclaimed, eyes widening, "He just threw you around like a plushie!"

    "Never mind type and evolution advantage." Dural rumbled.

    "Go for it."

    All eyes locked onto the Corvisquire, "Close the fracking door." Dural growled.

    The heck?

    Perry pulled a shrug with his wings, "Well someone has gotta go after him. Most of the guild is at the port and the other recruits could be in trouble too. There isn't a second to waste."

    In that moment, the post-bird looked deathly serious, turning his gaze on the Scorbunny with a steely look. "The question is who is going to step up?"

    Sam didn't hesitate, "I'm going." He reaffirmed, clapping a fist into his palm, feeling the flame in his chest roar as the throb faded away from his head. "Kyle needs help. And I have a score to settle with Greg."

    Perry nodded, a tiny flicker of a smile emerging, "I'll fly out and get the word out to Team Spirit. They're the closest. Dural and Larissa-" he turned towards his companions, "You better let the other recruits know what happened."

    "Whoa whoa." The Kecleon started, "You can't just-"

    It was too late, the Corvisquire had already shot up into the night sky and was banking away. "And there he goes." Dural mumbled, slowly turning away. "I'll head towards the barracks, that's where I last heard some of the guards were being placed."

    Larissa glanced between the metal dino, Sam and the night sky. "I-I'll check out that other place."

    She look down on him, "If you are going… please be careful. Try and not get yourself killed."

    "I second that." Dural said, "I still think this is a bad idea."

    Sam felt his ears quiver. He knew what he was planning was insane. He barely survived against Greg last time, and that time he was completely fresh then. Here he had just gotten beaten up and barely survived his fight with Aidan and his flight from Volcanion. But he couldn't sit back. The memory of the dead Pikachu and his companions flashed across his vision. No… I can't let Kyle suffer the same fate!

    He nodded back, "I don't plan on dying. Stay safe."

    Sharing a final glance between each other, the two Pokémon went their separate ways, running with surprising speed towards the forest paths and once more, leaving Sam alone at the foot of the tree.

    He didn't wait either. He spun towards the Guildtree, breaking out into a run. Insane plan or not, I can't do this alone. Bruce and the others might not be ready in time either… and there is only one person I can count on to help me.

    It didn't take him long to find her room, thanks to a little bit of guidance from one of the few remaining Pokémon in the tree who had been wondering down from the upper levels. He booted in the door, barely breaking his stride as he got in. "Alice! Wake up! We've got a problem."

    He didn't note much about the room itself, save for a single bed that had been assembled to one side of the room. Alice's shape rolled over; her ears sprayed out across the pillow. "Apples… training…"

    "Alice! Come on!" Sam snapped, scouring the room and scooping up her satchel. "Now is not the time to be sleeping!"

    The Buneary seemed to grumble under the bedsheet, her body stirring, "If… if you want to recruit me onto your team… I'll punch your eyes…"

    Heart racing and temper boiling over, Sam spun round to face her. "Jack's son has been kidnapped!" he roared.

    The shape froze.

    Stiffened.

    The Buneary shot out from under the bedcover in a flash of light that could have only been a Quick Attack. The anger flipping into shock as Sam staggered away, only for Alice to grab hold of his chest fur and yank him back, one ear coiled in and shivering as she roared back into his face.

    "Why the hell didn't you start with that you idiot!"
     
  • Threadmarks
    • Neat.

    given that Greg was attacking the Port, i'm picturing him just jumping into the ocean to escape...
     
    Krazyfan1 said:
    Neat.

    given that Greg was attacking the Port, i'm picturing him just jumping into the ocean to escape...
    Click to expand...
    Click to shrink...

    Well, Aidan is certainly kicking up quite the crime wave, also using Greg to boot.

    Also, Greg hadn't attacked the port. Still, the thought of him escaping by ocean is a good one.
     
    Chapter XXIII - Let loose your spirit
  • Threadmarks
    • POKÉMON MYSTERY DUNGEON​
    GUARDIANS OF BALANCE​

    ALWAYS AUDACITY
    CHAPTER XXIII – LET LOOSE YOUR SPIRIT    ​

    Outside of Robinswood, the sky had begun to brighten up, revealing a swarm of stars in the night sky. They were no moon, which had been hidden behind the smoke cloud from the port. But the sheer number was enough to provide a little bit of light for the two would-be rescuers to follow the tracks left behind by their quarry.

    Kyle, and the Swampert who had took him hostage.

    As soon as Sam had explained the situation, Alice had already grabbed her satchel and bounced down to the lobby and back outside. There had been no sign of Bruce or any of the other recruits. Nor was there any sign of the mysterious Team Spirit. The two rabbit Pokémon didn't need to say anything in order to come to a unanimous decision to follow.

    Alice took point through the woods, keeping the same kind of pace she had in Broken Wood. This time though, Sam had no issues keeping up with her. Aidan and perhaps Dan could at the very least defend themselves from basic trouble back then. Kyle was just a kid compared to their teenage-early twenties selves. He wouldn't stand a chance if Greg decided to-

    He shook his head, No damn it! Stop thinking of that! You aren't going to let Kyle suffer the same fate as that team!

    Ahead of him, the Buneary paused within a small clearing in the woods, crouching down to inspect the still fresh set of tracks that could have only been left by Greg. "I've gotta ask." Sam started, "Do you know Kyle?"

    Alice glanced back at him, one ear sinking a little bit before focusing her gaze back on the footprints. "Only a little." She admitted, "But he was one of the few people who doesn't actively hate me. That means something."

    Explains why she jumped out of bed so quickly. Sam mused, If someone was that nice to her, of course she is going to jump in. That and he's a kid so… maybe Alice kinda feels for him too?

    It was hard to say beyond that.

    Alice pointed a finger towards the opposite edge of the clearing. "This way." She stated, breaking out into a jog rather than hopping away as she had before.

    She's slowing her pace. Sam realised as he jogged alongside her. Keeping his eyes on the footprints, but also on the Buneary herself. She can definitely go faster. That has to mean she's got something else in mind right?

    His suspicion was proven correct when Alice spoke up again. "What kind of moves do you know?" she asked, eyes fixed on the footprints rather than him. "We're going to have to fight this guy… what's his name?"

    "Greg." Sam stated, "And as for moves, Ember, Quick Attack and Electro Ball."

    Alice narrowed her eyes, "So even Libero won't be much help. Electro Ball will be worthless against a ground type, and Ember won't work so well either."

    "What do you know?"

    "Pound, Rock Smash, Double Kick and Ice Punch. Not going to make much of a dent with those either."

    "So, fighting at a disadvantage then." Sam realised, "Come to think of it, Greg knows Hydro-Pump and Rock Throw."

    "That will screw you up. And that's not counting anything he might know to mess up my night."

    "So, double disadvantage then?"

    Alice brought herself to a halt, a little smirk forming on her lips, teeth biting down to hold back what was clearly a giggle or a chuckle. Sam felt a brief smile form too, more from pride that he had managed to crack her armour. It was dark humour. But it was humour nonetheless.

    It was but only brief though, as the smirk faded away with Alice turning towards him. "Look… we can't win this. We were lucky with Volcanion because we ran away."

    Sam nodded back, tapping his foot on the soft grass. He knew she was right. Both times Sam came across Greg, all it took was one blow to knock him down. Alice might have a better chance just due to typing, but she would still be taking on a beast that was more than ten times her size.

    He narrowed his eyes, "Then our best bet is to free Kyle, then bolt."

    "Agreed." Alice replied, clenching her fists together. "Better than getting ourselves killed."

    Sam tore his gaze away, already feeling his chest tighten. It might allow them to save Kyle and escape with their lives, but it would still essentially mean that Greg could walk away into the night. Free to commit another murder.

    Never mind any information on Aidan going up in smoke either.

    "I know what you are thinking Sam."

    He stiffened, "What?"

    Looking back over, the Buneary's narrowed eyes were gone. Instead, her arms were crossed with her head tilted over to one side. "Don't try and be a hero again. Life would be a bit less bright without you around."

    Frowning, he looked the Buneary over. The way her body was slightly slouched, and her eyes were actually flicking away from him. It had been the same bit of advice she had given him in the Broken Wood Ruins. But this time felt different in a way he couldn't describe.

    "I-I'll try my best." Sam replied. "Same with you."

    She directed her gaze over him once more, arms tightening around her chest. He could tell the scepticism from a mile off. She wasn't going to take an answer like the one he had just given. Straightening himself up, he looked at her in the eye and tried to project a firmer, more affirmative voice. "I won't try and be a hero, alright?"

    With a quiet huff, she finally let her arms sink down to her sides. "Alright then. Let's save Kyle then."

    They continued onward into the woods, utilising a combination of jogging and hopping between them to follow the tracks. Every second they wasted could have been another opportunity for Greg to do something horrific to the poor child.

    And that was something he would not allow to happen.

    Even if he didn't have Alice on hand with what seemed like good tracking skills – at least to the Scorbunny's mind – it wouldn't have been that difficult to follow Greg's route. When the tracks seemed to fade away onto firmer ground, there would be broken branches and trampled vegetation left in the Swampert's wake. Not something one would expect if he wanted to cover his tracks. Either Greg was in a hurry, or he wanted to be followed.

    The latter was far more worrying to the Scorbunny. It would scream of Aidan's handiwork. That, he had no doubt off.

    "-ese! L-Let me go! I-I want to go h-home!"

    Kyle! He snapped his gaze towards Alice, who likewise did the same. With a share nod between the two Pokémon, they slowed their pace, ears locking onto the direction of the voices directly ahead of them. As they moved closer, Greg's footprints began to merge with a near identical, older set that had branched off onto a different route, leaving the merged path thoroughly trampled into dirt.

    "Kid…" Greg growled softly. "If you don't shut up… you won't be going home. You hear?"

    The footprints ended at the edge of a puffy green bush, the former fading away into firmer ground with a thin layer of grass. In silence, the two approached the bush and delicately, Alice moved one of the branches aside with the faintest of rustles.

    It took Sam a moment to realise that their cover was positioned at the edge of small cliff, no more than three metres in height with a handful of boulders scattered around the grassy clearing below. The field itself was fairly sizeable, enough that it had a collection of individual trees scattered in the open or amongst the rocks, isolated from the others that made up the forest.

    And at its centre, at the foot of a larger tree was the bulky shape that could have only been Greg. He stood with his back turned, arms crossed as he inspected a quivering shape that hung from one of the tree's branches, wrapped up in a large amount of rope. Kyle, it had to have been.

    As Sam and Alice watched the scene below with worry, you settled yourself into position further along the cliff. You looked between them and the Swampert, feeling… uneasy at the situation. It had been difficult to act out against Aidan and Greg alike. Was it out of fear of discovery? Or was it out of faith that the former human would pull through?

    …it was difficult to find an answer…

    Should you intervene now?

    No… that shadow wouldn't approve. You had to have faith.

    Kyle was hanging upside down, tears streaming down his face. "P-Papa… M-Mama…"

    Greg groaned, dragging a hand down his face with an air of irritation. "I swear this is why I swore to never have kids…" he muttered, before barking his next words, "Kid! Shut the hell up!" he jabbed a finger that seemed nearly as big as the tiny Snom into where the abdomen would have been, sending the child swinging back and forth. The rope creaked as he swung, the terrified Kyle whimpering as Greg paced around the side. "You won't even have to be here that long; all I need is for some of your daddy's friends to come running this way to save your skin. We'll have a little bit of fun, then I'll bugger off. Seems like a fair little deal, right?"

    It wasn't working. Even from here, Sam could tell Kyle was already beginning to sob. He glanced around the clearing, looking for any signs of other mons hiding amongst the boulders and the trees – the grass was far too short, only really reaching past his ankles – and yet, he could see nothing.

    Sam narrowed his eyes, "Looks like he's alone, I can't anyone else."

    "There might still be someone hiding in the woods." Alice warned him, ear twitching. "It could be a trap."

    "Aidan only got Greg out." Sam explained, "That's not a lot of time for Greg to get anyone else signed in and Aidan isn't going to throw just any mooks in. Besides, Greg is dangerous enough on his own." He bit his lip, "Save for Rex."

    "And he is all the way over at the port." Alice growled, her coiled ear twitching that bit more.

    Sam took one final glance at their surroundings – seeing nothing new again – before he shuffled forward, bracing himself to push himself through or around the bush. "Alright… we better make a move."

    Alice's head jerked hard enough round that he nearly sprung away. "Have you seen the size of that field!" she hissed, "He'll see us coming for miles!"

    He looked over the field again with a tightening gut. Alice was right. That field wasn't exactly small, and there wasn't much in the way of cover. Even if they could somehow use the trees to sneak up to the centre, Greg wasn't going to just wonder off out of sight. Stealth wasn't an option.

    Nor could they fight him head on.

    That only means one option… Alice isn't going to like this.

    He patted on her shoulder, "Head round the edge." He advised, "Get round behind that tree. I'll distract Greg."

    Alice didn't hesitate in throwing his paw free, eyes flashing red. "I said no heroics! He could hose you down anytime he likes!"

    "That's why I'm going to do what I do best. Run my fricking mouth."

    The Buneary blinked, eyes widening in bewilderment. Taking his chance, he carried on. "I've got history with that guy. As far as he knows, I'm still a heap at the bottom of the Guildtree. Hell, he probably thinks I'm dead. Whilst I'm chatting away, you get Kyle and bolt. I'll do the same then. We can't fight him, but I bet we can outrun him."

    Alice frowned, eyes flicking between him and their targets down below. Weighing the options. Letting out a heavy sigh, she finally nodded. "Alright. Give me a minute to get round. Then… talk."

    "One minute. Got it." Sam replied, his gut relaxing.

    "But how are you going to keep his attention?" Alice questioned.

    He took a moment to look up at the stars, dig out every little detail of his last encounter with Greg… there was one thing he could use…

    "I've got one card up my sleeve. Just make sure you get Kyle free."

    "Alright, but the moment I grab him, run."

    "That was the plan."

    Huffing, Alice carefully released the bush branch, and with a final look over her shoulder, started hopping down towards the left-hand side of the trees.

    Alone, Sam rubbed his hands together, the gravity of what was happening now much more firmly settling onto his shoulders. He would have to walk out onto open ground and come face to face with the same Swampert who had nearly killed him. Twice.

    And try and keep him distracted without getting put in the ground permanently.

    He let out a shaky sigh. I still have to take this chance… I don't think Kyle has much time.

    "I said shut it you little shit!"

    A loud thud rang out, and with his heart racing, Sam pulled apart some of the foliage. Greg's gigantic fist had slammed into the trunk of the tree, leaving Kyle bouncing up and down, very clearly crying his eyes out.

    It has to have been a minute now… alright. Here goes.

    Steadying himself, Sam pushed through the bush and dropped down off the cliff, landing smoothly on his two feet and breaking out into a job towards the middle. "Hey Greg! You definitely don't want to hurt him!"

    Kyle's crying quickly died down into sniffles as the Swampert stiffened, slowly turning to face the Scorbunny who had quickly closed the distance. Sam slowed to a walk, and finally brought himself to a stop no less than ten metres away from the tree. Far enough away that he could try and evade an attack. Close enough to make it risky enough to entice Greg away.

    His eyes widened for the briefest of moments, but the surprise was quickly pushed aside as Greg broke out into deep laughter. "Damn kid. Either you're a zombie, or your skull's made of steel."

    Sam huffed, restraining his own chuckle. "A lot of folks keep aiming for the head. Never quite seems to work."

    "S-Sam!" Kyle shouted with audible delight, body quivering inside the rope bindings.

    "Hang on there Kyle." Sam declared, "I'll get you down in just a sec, okay?" He refocused his attention on Greg, who had taken a few steps forward to place himself before the bug-type. "I didn't realise you would stoop so low Greg. Killing was horrific enough, now you are kidnapping kids?"

    Clenching his jaw tight, Greg clamped one fist within the other. "Gotta do what I have to so I can survive kid. I told you that already."

    "Even if means working for Aidan?"

    He narrowed his eyes, "Heh, you know about him?"

    "Yeah. I worked with him. Briefly."

    A little smirk formed on Greg's face, "Ah… now I understand. Sam, right?"

    Sam frowned, "You know my name?"

    "Aidan wouldn't shut up about you after he busted me out. Turns out that kid liked you a lot." He let out a curt laugh, "Believe me, I didn't Aidan would get that friendly with someone! He was pretty pissed off with you too."

    "Well, we did fight each other." Sam bluntly stated back. "So what's he upto then? He having you do his bidding without your buddies?"

    Rearing himself up to his hind legs, Greg crossed his own arms. Eyes locked onto him.

    Alice emerged from the trees, silently hopping towards one of the isolated ones behind him.

    Sam fought not to look her way as Greg's voice boomed. "You mean Pidge and Ratts? Bah, those two were idiots. If it weren't for them, we would have walked away without any mess at all. Then again, that Pikachu and his pals didn't give me much of a choice."

    "Still doesn't really answer my question." Sam replied, as Alice got behind her first piece of cover and quickly moved onto the next.

    Greg merely huffed in response, "Seems like you care quite a bit about that guy yourself." He said, slowly beginning to turn back towards Kyle.

    And Alice, still in the open.

    Heart racing and without thinking, Sam took one step forward, "Let me guess. He blackmailed you right?"

    That got the Swampert to stop, eyes flicking back to him. Sam pressed on, "Or perhaps he just offered you getting out of jail in exchange for one more job? I mean, he must have really needed you for something if he would go through all the trouble to sneak back into town himself to break you out? Especially with one of those, err, Scorch Orbs?"

    Greg silently stared at Sam, Alice slipping just back behind a second piece of cover behind him – before finally turning back towards Sam. "Huh. You aren't as thick as I thought."

    "I like to think I've got a big brain." Sam replied with a smirk.

    That earned a toothless grin back – even as Alice started moving to the central tree. "Yeah. Aidan needed some muscle to get a lot of heat of his back."

    "That's why he attacked the port too?"

    "Exactly. All I need to do is make some noise, like with this crybaby here." He threw a big thumb over his shoulder towards Kyle, who had stopped sniffling and whose widened eyes was jumping back and forth between the two older Pokémon.

    Alice had reached the central tree, slipping in behind it and peering round the side towards them.

    Now for the hard bit.

    "And what did Aidan offer you? Can't just be freedom huh?"

    Greg took a step forward, narrowing one eye. "Right again. I get a free ticket off this rock. This dump isn't worth my time anymore."

    Sam narrowed one of his own. "So what? You are looking to retire?"

    That very quickly felt like a mistake.

    The Swampert stiffened, straightening up to his full height as he stomped forward. "Retire? Retire!" he barked, marching towards him with a red glint in his eye. Sam's heartrate accelerated as he took a step back, trying not to gasp. Holy – I wasn't expecting that! Gotta be prepared to-

    Greg was only a couple of metres away now, and Sam was worried the Swampert would just keep going and run him down. But instead, he slid to a half, his gigantic blue arms shivering. "And where do you think I would retire to kid? I can't go back to my home continent, I'd get arrested! Can't go to Air or Water because they'll just deport me back there in no time! And the others? They either won't let me in, or they'll throw me to work on their so-called 'community service' for the rest of my days because I happened to steal to survive on the streets as a little Mudkip. I'll shrivel up faster than a Magikarp in a fucking furnace!"

    With a roar, he stomped the ground with one foot, hard enough Sam could feel a quake run through his legs and into his chest. All it would take is just one little mistake, and Greg could just step in and snap him like a twig.

    But it had done its trick. Alice crept out from behind the tree and approached the still swinging Kyle. Reaching up with both ears, she was already bringing him to a halt. Just need to buy some time.

    "Well?!" Greg snapped; his voice raw with anger. Sam snapped back up to attention, "That… kinda sucks… but you don't want to be doing this all your life right?"

    Greg crossed his arms, pupils turning to slits, "Well, I've ain't got no choice. I have to survive. And I'd rather pillage my way across the Sea then spend the rest of my days in a cell. Bah!" he waved an arm dismissively, "You're not worth my time to try and break again. Go home. I'll be dealing with the Guild soon enough."

    He started to turn once more. Alice had somehow managed to climb up onto the rope and was now trying to get Kyle free. Balls to it! If this doesn't get keep his attention, I don't know what will!

    "Is that offer to join your crew still open?" Sam asked, projecting his voice as loud as he could without shouting.

    The Swampert stiffened.

    Alice froze, head snapping up to glare at him.

    Greg slowly swivelled his head back towards the Scorbunny, an incredulous look stretched across his big face. "Really?" He questioned, "You are asking me about that now? Of all times? I take it back; you do have brain damage."

    Sam laughed in response, "Come on! I definitely don't have brain damage. Especially since my memories have started coming back!"

    Confusion seemed to wash over both Greg and Alice like a wave. "Memories?" Greg muttered, before breaking out into laughter, "Ha! I knew you couldn't have been hungover on juice! That was some kind of bullshit excuse if I had ever heard of it!"

    Even as Alice seemed to silently mouth her continuing confusion behind him, Greg leaned forward, arms crossed as if he was some kind of bemused dad rather than a bandit. "Go on then, what kind of memories did you get back?"

    "Oh yeah, those memories." He waved one arm casually off to the side, "I wasn't doing much beyond that little bit of thievery here and there. I'm pretty quick on my feet you know. Hopping from one house to the next. I wasn't… err… joking on the juice though. I was getting these rare gummis, but well." He tried to pull the most embarrassed smile he could, "Some rabbit happened to wonder in and punched my lights out. Really damn hurt."

    Alice seemed to recoil, confusion mixing in with disgust. But then her eyes widened in realisation and she quickly accelerated her efforts to get Kyle loose. Sam shrugged, "I guess this handsome face happens to be pretty punchable. No idea why."

    Greg snorted, clearing struggling not to laugh. "Yeah, I can attest to folks wanting to smash your face in."

    Sam maintained his smile, unsure if the bandit was being sarcastic or if he genuinely meant it. It wasn't much longer now anyway; he could see the ropes fraying round Kyle. Just another minute and they could make a break for it!

    Greg leaned even further forward, that smirk seeming more vicious by the second. "There is one thing that does make complete sense with that story."

    Sam blinked, feeling his ears flick back. "Err… that I'm a rather charming fellow?" he asked hopefully.

    "Heh. Nope."

    His eyes narrowed, the smirk vanishing away. "It's because that rabbit you mentioned is right behind me."

    Sam couldn't hide the gasp this time, Alice's head swivelling round back towards Greg. The Swampert snapped back upright, "Take her out!"

    The leaves of the central tree rustled as two green spiders dropped down from the foliage, springing to a stop just next to Alice under on the ends of white string. Alice cursed as she leapt off the nearly untied Kyle just as one of the Spinarak swung at her, jabbing their horn into thin air.

    "Alice! Get- "

    Sam sprung back mid-cry as Greg slammed his fists down into the ground where he once stood. Something screamed behind him, and Sam rolled to the side. Air rushed past him, something just brushing past is ear as he managed to evade the blow. He caught a glimpse of the attacker, a small, rounded monkey-like Pokémon. A Mankey.

    Hol-where the hell did Greg get this kind of backup!? Sam settled back onto his feet, backing away from two attackers until he felt something thump into his back.

    "Great call on no one else being here!" Alice snapped, sharply enough that Sam winced.

    "I thought the rest of his gang were locked up!" Sam barked back, lifting his fists up defensively as Greg and the Mankey approached from his side. A Spearow was now hovering above them, and a quick flick of his head to look past Alice's shoulder revealing not only the two Spinarak approaching and a Gloom alongside them from another tree, but what also appeared to be a Marowak with a bone engulfed with blue flames.

    The sight of that sent a cold shiver down his spine.

    All of a sudden, they were outnumbered 3-to-1.

    Surrounded.

    "Yeah." Alice growled, "You think?"

    Greg let out an amused snort, tapping the side of his skull with cruel smirk. "I like to think I've got a big brain too. Do you really think I would be that stupid as to come and face the guild alone? Or just had to the two clowns?" He stroked his chin, the smug confidence almost toxic now. "You lost your chance to join me when I asked. Right now, I think we'll use you as extra hostages."

    He paused for a moment, before pulling a heavy-set shrug. "Or my gang and I will just leave your corpses hanging from the trees as a warning. After these past few days, I'm in the mood for that."

    The seven bandits circled the two rabbits, Sam feeling his back press hard against Alice's. His gaze jumped from one to the other, trying to find a way out of this. He might be able to deal with one, maybe two of the smaller mons. Alice could too. But that still left Greg himself and that probably that Marowak, judging by the flaming bone. But even if they could punch through and escape, they would still be leaving Kyle at their mercy…

    "Oh, and if you try and rescue the kid or run, I'll squish him like the little bug he is." He jerked his head at Kyle, tears now rolling down his cheeks again. "We can either do this the easy way, or the hard way. Your call."

    The bandits crept that little bit closer, and Sam glanced over his shoulder. "Well, since my plan was rubbish, any ideas?".

    Alice merely glowered back. "We're screwed."

    "Not really the time to be pessimistic! How close where you to getting- "

    "Nearly had it." Alice hissed, interrupting him.

    Okay, don't want Greg getting any ideas about what we're talking about. "Think we can shake loose?"

    "Not unless you want your head caved in." Alice stated matter-of-factly.

    "Having some last words with your girlfriend?" Greg purred.

    Sam jerked his head round back to the Swampert.

    "She's not my – boyfriend!"

    He winced as he glanced back at Alice, who likewise flashed a half annoyed, half confused look before turning back to the Pokémon on her side.

    "Shucks to this! I'm not waiting!"

    The Spearow rose upwards, spread its wings out, and dove down towards Sam, wings glowing.

    Sam flashed a smirk, Alright, come to papa!

    With a skid of his foot, he let rip the Electro Ball, the yellow orb flying through the air towards the bird. Cawing, the bird rolled away, the electric attack fading away as it flew into the sky.

    Let's see how they'll deal with Libero! Sam exclaimed mentally, if that ability could help with Aidan, it could certainly help here! And so the Scorbunny crouched down, waiting for the blue glow…

    A glow that didn't come.

    Sam blinked, looking down and patting his body. Wait! This should be working!

    A thump rang out behind him as Alice smacked back the Gloom with an ice-incrusted ear, her target also impatient to get in the fray. "Sam, what the hell are you doing!?"

    Panic started to settle in to the Scorbunny, his heart once more beginning to race. "Err… bad news, Libero ain't working!"

    "Oh for the love of- "Alice cursed, her word devolving into a yell as she worked to Double Kick one of the Spinarak's away. Sam couldn't do much to help, as the Mankey sprinted towards him, fists raised for its own attack. Flame burning inside, Sam booted an Ember straight at the monkey's face. He barely caught a reaction as the fireball struck it in the face, sending his foe stumbling back. But as the light smoke cleared, the Mankey's body wrinkled up, eyes almost burning as it moved forward again. Sam started to shake, taking another step back only to bump back into Alice. They were all closing in now, tightening their killbox. Kyle's sobs rang out over the clunks and booms of their attacks and footsteps, only adding to that sense of dread weighing down on him.

    We're not walking out of this one…

    Gritting his teeth, Sam forced himself to stop shaking, bringing his foot back for another Ember. "Alice." He started, "I know we agreed not and try to be heroes. But how do you fancy trying to take down as many of these guys as possible?"

    He was initially treated with silence, then a little giggle over his shoulder. "For once, I can get behind what you say." Alice replied, feeling her back press against his. "Let's do this."

    Warmth rushing through his body, Sam flashed a grin. "Well, what you waiting for! Come and get it!"

    On cue, the bandits rushed towards them, bodies glowing as they came in for the kill. The fire roared within him, Take some of this-

    The scream jabbed at his ears like hot irons, shoving Sam down towards the ground as he desperately clutched and yanked them down. He could just make out Alice's cry.

    And could just about see the Mankey and Spearow get blown aside by what almost seemed a gust of wind. Even Greg stumbled aside, struggling to maintain his balance. And yet still, Sam and Alice weren't moving.

    The painful sound ceased, and Sam looked up to find all seven bandits piled together near the central tree. Kyle still hung there in his bindings, no longer sobbing. In fact, his eyes were sparkling.

    "Seems like we got here just in time."

    Towards the cliff, standing with her arms crossed on the field was Esper. Her ears twitching with as she flashed a little smile.

    And to both sides of her were Jack and Oscar themselves.

    "Papa!" Kyle shouted.

    "Esper?" Sam managed to utter, "What are you guys doing her- "

    Then he saw them. An armband each on Esper and Oscar's right arms, whilst Jack had a similarly coloured scarf wrapped round his neck. All of them were coloured purple, with a yellow-gold emblem embroidered on it. A collection of circles and ovals that made up a six-pointed star. If he had to hazard a guess, it could only be one group.

    "W-Wait! Your're Team Spirit!" Sam exclaimed.

    Esper tilted her head over, "We are. You two alright?"

    "We're fine." Alice replied, flashing a little smirk back. "Didn't realise you were all on the same team either."

    Oscar tipped an invisible hat, "We don't tend to show off!"

    Behind them, Greg roared, throwing the Gloom off him as if it were an inconvenient brick. "Team Spirit huh! You don't look so tough! Who do you think you are to get in my way!"

    The Meowstic rolled her eyes. "Shall we introduce ourselves boys?"

    "By golly." Oscar said, voice low as he rubbed his paws together. "Lets."

    Jack flapped his wings harder, bringing himself higher up. The normally jovial bug-type now had a darker air around him, his red eyes looking as if they are almost on fire. "I'm Jack." He declared coldly and with an almost unnatural growl, "I'm an Explorer from Pokémon Square of the Air Continent! And you shouldn't have kidnapped my son you monster!"

    Oscar placed his hands on his hips, flashing his incisors. "Oscar here! Former member of Wigglytuff's Guild on the Grass Continent!"

    Esper merely bowed her head, one eye fixed on the Swampert. "You'll know me as Esper. From Serene Village of Water Continent, member of the Expedition Society of Lively City, leader of Team Spirit and deputy head of the Robinswood Guild."

    A low groan flowed across the field as the bandits picked themselves back up, where in front of them, Greg's jaw clenched up. "What a crew." He crumbled with an air of sarcasm. "But it won't matter. We still outnumber you. You really feel like you are up to dealing with this gang of outlaws?"

    The other bandits formed up behind their leader, the Swampert taking one step forward as he stared down the Rescuers. But Team Spirit stood their unfazed, Esper if anything seemed more bemused. "If you think we are just here trying to do a job, let me explain to you why we are called Team Spirit."

    She closed her eyes, one ear twitching at the ready for a sudden charge. "Years ago, we would have just been young villagers and guildmembers. We would have felt scared, intimidated or perhaps just a little bit lonely in the world. Unsure of our futures and how we could stand on our own two feet. And we would have stayed like that for sure."

    Sam couldn't help but feel entranced as she spoke, head dipping forward. "That was, until each of us would meet Pokémon who would change our lives forever. Pairs, believe it or not. They are unique, and special in every way. They would drive us – no – inspire us to reach greater heights than we could have ever imagined. To overcome our fears. Our doubts. Or even just to push ourselves to our limits."

    Her eyes opened, "And so, we decided to let loose our spirits. We all share the goal of pushing ourselves to the same heights as they have, thanks to that shared experience. That binds this Team together. Believe me. You sorry lot of outlaws don't scare us. We've all dealt with much worse. So if you want a fight, try at your peril."

    A few of the bandits seemed to hesitate, sharing looks between themselves. Doubt settling in. But Greg let rip a feral growl, slamming a fist into the ground hard enough to get the other bandits to jump together. Without even turning, his next words seemed to sink into Sam's skin like iron. "If anyone decides to run now… I'll break your neck and hang your carcass for the whole Sea of Wonders to see!"

    That seemed to get their attention, the bandits reforming alongside Greg with steely, determined expressions.

    Esper sighed softly, unwrapping her arms. "Sam. Alice. Get Kyle and fall back. We'll deal with them."

    Sam looked between Team Spirit and Greg's bandits. They were still outnumbered, and Kyle was still in harm's way. Even if they could untie him and run, they would still have to face at least one bandit. And that would mean leaving the others behind.

    Instinct seemed stronger than ever. Not to run and hide.

    But to fight.

    No… I can't leave here now. Not after all this.

    He looked over towards Alice, who was already looking at him. Not with a smile, or a scowl. But a look of confidence and support.

    As if she could see right through him, Alice nodded once.

    That was all he needed to see.

    Sam sprung forward, positioning himself between Team Spirit and the bandits. "No. We're staying here to fight with you!" he declared, eyes locked on Greg. "And I've got a score to settle."

    Alice touched down next to him, ears pumping forward as she got into a combat stance. "Besides, wouldn't be much fun if we packed up shop and ran."

    Behind them, neither noticed the little smile of pride on Esper's face.

    Greg snarled, rearing up onto his hind legs. "Alright, if that is how you want to play things out!" He stabbed a single finger out towards the Rescuers. "Kill them all!"

    And with that, the bandits charged.

    And so with Team Spirit being revealed (with plenty of callbacks there) we move on to the penultimate chapter of the first episode! Just two more to go before this episode is concluded! I'll probably be doubling down my efforts on this, being so close to the end of this episode. So new chapters will probably be coming through very quickly in the next few days.

    I'm also planning on doing a bonus chapter between episodes 1 and 2, which would feature some of the other characters that have popped up in GoB so far rather than focusing solely on Sam and/or Alice, if anyone has any suggestions on what they want to see for a bonus chapter, please let me know and I'll see what I can do!

    Either way, enjoy this chapter!
     
  • Threadmarks
    • Chapter XXIV - Confrontation
  • Threadmarks
    • POKÉMON MYSTERY DUNGEON
    GUARDIANS OF BALANCE

    ALWAYS AUDACITY
    CHAPTER XXIV – CONFRONTATION    ​

    The Mankey went for Sam first. With a yell, Sam willed himself to dash forward, shooting past the fighting type in a flash of light to materialise behind and above it. The din of battle already ringing in his ears, the Scorbunny kicked an Electro Ball straight towards their back. The monkey threw themself aside, the electric attack just brushing past the Mankey's shoulder and causing the fur to stick up on end. Sam touched the ground as his foe spun, brow visible clenching. With a scream, the angry Pokémon charged for him once more.

    Sam didn't hesitate, booting another pebble away into an Ember before springing back. Once more, the fireball struck the monkey in the face with a flash of light and a puff of smoke. But this time, it didn't stop, powering through the attack. Gasping, Sam tried to spring away again – only for the monkey's hands to grasp round one leg and one of his ears, yanking him back. The Scorbunny roared, trying to pull the ear free. God damnit not ag-

    He couldn't finish the thought, the Mankey screaming as he threw him above their head and tossed him down into the ground hard.

    Headfirst.

    Sam's jaw slammed shut on impact, his whole body jerking with the impact as his skull rang. Planting his paws into the earth, he looked up to see Oscar duelling with Marowak, spinning its bone round to deflect a burst from the beaver's Water Gun. He turned –

    To be greeted with another foot to the face.

    Sam cried out as he sailed through the air, pain rushing through his body and flaring up as he landed with a thud. Heat surged forth from his face and rushed down into his chest, feeding that fire within. He shoved himself upright, eyes locking onto once more charging Mankey.

    The fire threatened to consume him, his blood boiling. His mind flashed back to the betrayal, his original fight against Greg… the asinine number of times he had been hit in the face and Kyle's kidnapping.

    Something snapped, the Scorbunny's vision flashing red. "Fucking stop hitting my head!"

    Roaring, Sam charged back towards the fighting type, pouncing into the air. His roar rang in his ears, and so loud it was that the Mankey actually skidded to a halt, eyes widening.

    That was his mistake, as Sam dove down on top of them with a salvo of two kicks straight into his face. As the Mankey stumbled back, the Scorbunny followed up with the biggest Ember he could manage. His foe recovered just in time to see the fireball strike his face once more, sending the fighting type rolling across the field and into one of the surrounding trees with a thud.

    "Now you know what it feels like!" Sam barked, panting as he turned his attention to the rest of the battle. The Marowak was still locked in battle with Oscar, swinging a glowing bone round to strike at the bigger Pokémon. With a look that screamed that he wasn't impressed, Oscar was stood upright, casually blocking the strikes with both arms. In the air, Jack tangled with the Spearow. The latter diving down and swinging past the Butterfree with Wing Attacks and Drill Pecks. But each time, Jack twisted out of the way of the dives before firing off red waves at the bird. The Spearow squawked as one such wave hit, shaking his head violently.

    Esper in comparison was in a whole other league. She simply stood in the middle of the field, ears glowing a light blue whilst the two Spinaraks, surrounded by the same colour glow, hung helplessly in mid-air. Without as much of a twitch, the two bug Pokémon were flung into the ground with a heavy crack and thrown back up again. Beyond them, Greg growled as he stomped towards the Meowstic, one hand dragging through the earth. Esper psychically tossed the two spiders away, focusing her full attention on the Swampert.

    That left Alice to deal with the Gloom. She swung an ice-coated ear straight into their leg. Wincing, the Weed Pokémon dropped down to a knee and with a gasp, vomited a violet blob up at the Buneary. Alice hesitated only for a moment before throwing herself aside. The blob landed with a splat where she had stood, hissing softly as the grass surrounding it quickly went yellow and broke apart under the acid. Sam broke out into a sprint, headed their way. "Alice! Incoming!"

    She had just thrown another Ice Punch into the Gloom's other leg before turning to face him. She hopped away as the Gloom toppled forward straight into another Ember. With a flash, the petals on their head quickly ignited. Immediately, they had scrambled back up right, letting out a twisted scream as they sprinted away from Alice and back down the field.

    "Good shot!" Alice grunted with a little smirk as Sam slid up alongside her. "Who next?"

    One person remained unaccounted for in all of this. Someone still in danger. "Kyle…" Sam uttered, spinning his head round to find the Snom still hanging from the tree, desperately swinging himself to get free. "Let's get him loose and out of the line of fire, then we can help the others!"

    An almighty bang rang out over his shoulder.

    Behind him, Oscar grunted as he slid back, struggling to hold up a massive boulder that seemed to have been torn straight from the ground. Esper stood sideways on from him, eyes widened. That attack was all too familiar, and the Meowstic had only just dodged th-

    A shield made of light formed just as the glowing arm of Greg slammed into it. With a clang, the Protect held from the strike, allowing the Meowstic time to pull back.

    "Let's not waste any time!" Alice barked, beckoning for the Scorbunny to follow. With a sharp nod back, he followed, the two sprinting towards the central tree where Kyle was waiting, still struggling against his bindings.

    Sam dug his feet harder into the ground, willing himself to go faster. A screech rang out above him, and he looked up in time to duck under the Spearow, his beak glowing as it tried to skewer him. He bit off a curse, the bird pulling up as Jack flew overhead. "I'll keep you covered!" he cried out, flapping his wings to a heavy beat and throwing a blast of air at the bird.

    Not wasting time to watch the result, he continued his charge towards Kyle, Alice slightly ahead of him. "Hang on Kyle! We're coming!"

    They were little more than a few metres away when Kyle started screaming. "A-Alice! Look out!"

    Sam caught the flash of white and blue from his left.

    He sprung forward, arms shoving straight into Alice's back. He ignored her cry as they both fell into the grass, a loud whoosh ringing in his ears as the flaming bone spun above their heads and flew back the way it came, back into the open hand of the Marowak.

    Must have slipped away whilst Oscar caught that rock! Sam realised, as he helped Alice back up to her feet. "You alright?"

    "I'm fine!" Alice growled, "Thanks but now we've got him to deal with!"

    The Marowak had brought himself round in front of the two rabbits, twirling the bone around with clear slits in his eyes.

    He glanced over at Alice, "Take him down together?"

    "Agreed." She stated, springing forward at the Marowak as the Ice Punch formed round her ear. Sam sprinted after her, seeing the Marowak spin round the burning bone with a flash of purple. The bone connected with the ice attack, the latter shattering on impact to reveal a normal ear. The momentum flung Alice back over the top of Sam, but he didn't look back, firing off an Electro Ball at the Marowak. The skull-headed Pokémon couldn't respond quick enough to deal with that. The ball hit it in the chest, the entire Pokémon spasming as the electricity coursed through his body. Taking his chance, Sam came down onto the Marowak, kicking with both of his legs-

    Only for both feet to bounce harmlessly off its belly.

    He didn't even get a chance to process this before he was treated with the club end of a bone flying into his own gut, sending Sam sailing away. Gritting, he rolled mid-air and skidded across the grass. "Careful!" Alice shouted off to his side, crouched down with one hand in the dirt. "Ghost type!"

    Ghos- He shook his head, there was no point in questioning it now, that attack didn't do anything – Double Kick! Of course of all the times he would learn it out of nowhere, it had to be against a fighting type and a ghost type to boot! That meant Quick Attack would be worthless as an attack too. And that fire on the bone had to imply that the Marowak also happened to be a fire-type too.

    That only left Electro Ball, and pouncing up into the air, he kicked off another electric attack. This time, his opponent saw it coming, his bone glowing before whacking it away with a decent swing of his weapon.

    But as he spun the bone round for another attack, he cried out as Alice's Ice Punch caught his side. The Buneary gritted her teeth as she withdrew, the bone whipping through thin air and skimming past her chest.

    Sam booted another Electro Ball away, this time physically shoving the Marowak off balance. He readied himself for another kick, but something clicked in his mind. Just because this can't hurt him doesn't mean I can't abuse this move!

    "Hey! Skull-head!" Sam barked, pulling a mock wave as his foe turned towards him, quivering with anger. "You can't hit anything for toffee!"

    He could see the dino's hand tighten around the bone. "Y-You dumb rabbit!" he snapped, sweeping the bone back for another throw.

    Sam started to sprint at it, just as the bone flew at him.

    One moment the Scorbunny was there, the next he was gone.

    The Marowak jerked back, head swivelling to find him. "Surprise!" Sam exclaimed, poking his own head the reptile's shoulder. Almost jumping into the air, he wildly swung a fist round, only for the Scorbunny to blink away and out to the side. "Damn isn't Quick Attack fun!" Sam cheered as the Marowak caught and swung the bone back round at him, only to dash aside. "What's the matter!? Not used to a little dodging!"

    Coming in from one side, Alice was rapidly approaching, ear already getting encased back in ice. Perfect. Sam realised, a euphoric pulse rolling over him as he performed one more Quick Attack, this time feeling the bone rush past the hairs of his neck – and pulling up alongside Alice, mid charge.

    The poor bandit turned round face first into the combined Electro Ball and Ice Punch, crashing underneath his chin and sending him cartwheeling head over heels straight into the tree with a nasty crack, hard enough to shake Kyle up in the tree. The bandit crumpled face first into the ground, weakly trying to push himself back up. He looked up once, and whimpering loudly, the bandit crawled on his back towards the tree with widening eyes. Now they had space, Sam looked towards Alice, standing slightly ahead of him. "Now's our chance!" Sam said.

    "Yeah, let's-" Alice's ears stiffened and before he could say anything, she threw herself into him, knocking the wind out of his lungs as he hit the deck. Sam gasped, trying to get air back in. W-What was-

    Over her shoulder, Greg skidded past them backwards, his fingers digging into the dirt and throwing up grass blades, slowing him down to a halt just in front of the Marowak.

    "T-Thanks." Sam coughed as Alice stepped up and reached a hand out. He took a second to stare at it before grabbing hold and getting pulled up to his feet. Esper was walking towards them from the side, eyes focused on Greg, save for a quick confirmatory glance to check if the two rabbit Pokémon were alright. Greg's jaw was clamped shut; brow furrowed as he pushed himself back upright.

    "Sorry about that." Esper replied, "Had my hands full with this one."

    The Marowak slid out from behind, "B-Boss!" he shouted out in evident panic. "W-We can't keep t-this up! We s-should run!"

    Esper's ears remained open, raising an eyebrow. "The wiser option would be to surrender now."

    A low growl rumbled forth from the Swampert, loud enough regardless Sam could feel his chest vibrate in rhythm. I don't think he's that eager to quit…

    And sure enough, the Swampert rolled his jaw before barking back at her. "And lose my only chance at freedom? Screw that!"

    Esper shrugged, "The hard way it is then." She glanced back to the rabbits, "I'll deal with Greg, you get-"

    Her eyes widened as she started to spin round, only for two webs splashed against her legs with a splat, the Meowstic barely getting the chance to look down in shock before they were yanked out from underneath her. She hit the floor; eyes wide as she was pulled back from them. In the field, the two Spinaraks had spat out webs. Incredibly, the Mankey seemed to have recovered, and was pulling the Meowstic via the webbing back towards the rest of the fighting. Oscar was now fighting the Gloom, it's petals still smoking as the Bibarel dodged the Grass Knots shooting out of the ground between him and his target.

    Instinct took over, Sam readying himself to leap for the Meowstic, "Hang o-"

    Don't worry about me!

    Esper's voice boomed in his mind, barely taking a moment for Sam to realise she was using telepathy. Next to him, Alice visibly flinched. She could hear her too.

    I'll deal with these ones! Stall Greg until I can get back to you!

    Sam blinked, Stall him!? How- damn it, not the time!

    He turned back towards Greg, the big Swampert flashing his toothless grin. "So… now I have two little rabbits to play with!"

    "We're not helpless you know." Alice stated, one ear pumping in and out.

    Sam flashed his buckteeth, "And I've got a lot stronger since last time."

    Laughing, Greg stepped forward, "So confident, I might actually make this quick!"

    He took one step forward, only for the Marowak to run round in front of him, waving his arms desperately. "P-Please boss!" he cried out, "These two are something else! And S-Spirit is the s-strongest team in Robinwood! W-We've kept them busy l-long enough!"

    The smile vanished as the Swampert glared at the ghost-type, fingers twitching. "What did I say?" he growled.

    The Marowak visibly froze, slowly starting to step away with hands outstretched. "I-I-I d-didn't me-ACK!"

    His cry was cut shut as Greg's giant hand grabbed hold of his neck, lifting him up like a ragdoll. "I warned you!" he snapped, "You little shit!"

    "B-Bos-ss!" The Marowak gasped, hands beating desperately on his arm.

    Holy- Sam stepped forward, "Let him go Greg!" he barked. "You don't have to do this!"

    "Have you forgotten already?" Greg shouted back, his captive desperately gasping for air. "I'm trying to survive. And I'm not getting dragged down by some cowards!"

    "P-Please! I-I-I c-can-n f-fight! I c-c-"

    A sickening snap rang out, the Marowak's eyes going wide in shock.

    Alice gasped.

    Kyle screamed.

    Sam's heart stopped.

    The Marowak's limbs twitched for just a moment, before his body went limp, head rolling forward. "What a waste of space." Greg spat, casually tossing the corpse aside over his shoulder onto the field. When the body crumbled into a heap, it was all too easy to see the broken neck.

    Sam nearly retched, his entire body convulsing. The image of the dead Squirtle flashed through his mind, it was just like before. All that blood, all that broken-

    A soft weight settled onto his shoulder, the Scorbunny flinching, trying to turn – and finding Alice standing next to him, a firm hand on his shoulder with her mouth slightly open and her uncoiled ear dipped to one side.

    Worry.

    And then it clicked, feeling his chest rise and fall like a pulse. He took a deeper breath, slowly blowed it out, and with his breathing under control once more, turned his gaze back on Greg. "You're going to pay for what you've done." Sam growled.

    "And that's something we can both get behind." Alice declared; her voice deathly cold as she let go of Sam's shoulder.

    Greg stared them down, eyes flicking between the two. Even as the battle waged on behind their backs, Sam held his nerve. He wouldn't run. He didn't care what Greg said, or how he killed 'to survive' or some cheap excuse like that. A life was a life. It was precious regardless of who it belonged to.

    Sam dragged one foot back, readying himself for the fight ahead. They had no time to wait for Esper to finish the other bandits off. They had to deal with Greg here and now.

    "Heh." Greg croaked, more amused anything else.

    Then he rammed his fists into the ground, ripping out two gigantic boulders that dwarfed Sam and Alice both. "Then do your worst!" he roared, throwing the rocks straight towards them.

    Sam sprinted forward, Alice doing the same on his left. One rock bounced off the ground, cartwheeling in the air towards the Scorbunny. Skidding, Sam threw himself into a slide, barely flinching as the rock flew over his head. Behind him, Alice instead jumped, bouncing off his rock then over to the one aimed for her higher up. Springing back up, Sam fired off another pebble, igniting the rock with ease. A glowing arm struck the fireball, smothering the fire attack with little effort. But that gave Alice all the room she needed to come down onto the top of Greg's head with a Double Kick. The Swampert snarled, waving a giant fist to try and swat the Buneary away. But she was too fast, and backflipped away.

    Then came the second Ember flew into his open mouth. The Swampert's eyes widened as he stumbled back, an internal shot like that being too painful for the water type to ignore. His orange eyes, visibly bulging with red veins, shot daggers at the two rabbits as he reared up with a dreadful roar and slammed his fists straight down into grass.

    Sam just caught the shockwaves rushing through the grass before Alice said the word.

    "Earthquake!" she screamed, and without hesitating, Sam leapt upwards. He sailed through the air, hoping he was in the air for long enough. But when his feet hit the ground, he found them jerked to his right, then back again just as sharply. Sam cried out, struggling to maintain his balance before his legs finally slipped out from underneath him and his chin hit the ground with a crack. Groaning, he forced himself back up just as Alice launched herself back at the much bigger enemy, one ear glowing.

    Sam's heart missed a beat, "Alice! Wat-"

    Alice cried out as a single fist sailed into her chest, flinging her up and over the Swampert and out of sight.

    Screaming, Sam charged, feeling his chest burn hotter than ever. Another Ember went flying, this time being put out with a little squirt of water from Swampert's mouth as he turned to confront him. Not even a metre away now.

    Sam willed himself to Quick Attack, to dash past Greg. The world blinked.

    And Sam remerged to find Greg's fingers clamped round his legs.

    He barely had time to cry out as he was thrown to the ground. Hard. Pain jabbed across his entire body, jarring from the impact. He tried to pick himself up again, only for a blue hand to bite down round his neck. Sam squirmed, fighting desperately to get himself free, but Greg's grip was too strong. Anger turned to blind panic, the Scorbunny slamming his fists down onto his captor's fist. No no! Let go off me! P-Please!

    Greg's eyes burnt as he lifted the Scorbunny up.

    You started to rise, no, the story couldn't end here. You had to intervene-

    Something flickered in your vision.

    "Alright you little shit." Greg rumbled, "You're thick-skulled alright… but let's see how easy it is to break that little neck of yours."

    He began to squeeze.

    What little air was able to down his windpipe now failed to get through at all, his lungs starting to burn like acid. He tried to cry out, but only a weak gasp escaped. He was choking, his vision already beginning to swim. His throat throbbed harder and faster, a little tighter and-

    Panic and fear took over. He weakly kicked his legs out, where was Alice? Esper? His head rolled back, Kyle was hanging directly above, tears flooding his eyes. I-I don't wanna-

    "P-Ple…" he tried to gasp.

    "Don't bet on it." Greg growled, "No one is saving you this time."

    As if on cue, a brown shape flew into view from behind the Swampert, ear glowing blue.

    Alice's Ice Punch crashed round into the side of Greg's head with an almighty crack, the amphibian's head jerking violently to one side with a look of complete shock.

    The fingers slipped free, and Sam dropped down to the floor, gasping as fresh air rushed into his lungs. But he didn't have time to wait, looking up with a hostile to find Greg shaking his head, one hand clutching it as he moaned.

    "Break-" Sam growled, leaping up at him and kicking once at Greg's chin, "This!"

    The second kick hit even hard, snapping Greg's head back with a sickening crack as Sam cartwheeled back through the air and back onto open ground. Alice jogged up aside him, for the first time look genuinely concerned even as she clutched her side. "Thanks." Sam said, flashing a little grin. "Got a knack for last minute rescues eh?"

    Alice merely shrugged. But even in his state, he could see the pained smile.

    The agonised roar caught his attention. Greg slammed his fists back down into the grass, keeling over as he struggled to take deep breaths. "You… bastards…" he panted, head jerking back up. "When I'm finished with you, I'll rip you both in half!"

    Sam straightened himself up, slowing his briefing and willing the flames… no… that energy in his chest to burn harder than ever. "No Greg." He started, "We're finished with you."

    Greg reared back, a blue ball of energy forming within his open mouth, charging up.

    Sam looked over at Alice. "Together?"

    She looked back, returning a strong nod as she pulled her hand away from her side. "Together."

    Nodding himself, he turned to face their foe. "This ends here!"

    With a final roar, Greg snapped his head forward, a massive jet of water screaming towards them.

    Sam leapt aside; the massive Hydro Pump shot slamming into the ground where he had stood. Rolling back onto his feet, he charged for the Swampert, Alice doing the same on his left. "Go for his head!" he shouted, bouncing into the air.

    Greg, still firing the Hydro Pump, could only look up to see the Scorbunny and Buneary high above his head, falling down on him with righteous fury.

    Two feet stuck once, then twice with a bang. The Swampert crying out as the Hydro Pump cut out with a squirt thanks to the twin Double Kicks. Alice dropped down to the floor. Sam flipped back up high.

    Teeth bared, Alice's ear darkened as she swung in her Rock Smash attack, a sickening crack ringing out as Greg's jaw slammed shut. Sam touched down a few metres away, charging back in as Greg stumbled backwards. The Buneary's eyes flicking between the ground and Sam himself. In that moment, she grabbed hold of the projectile and flung it towards the Scorbunny.

    Sam kicked out, the pebble igniting as it was thrown up into the air. Leaping up to meet it, Sam screamed as he brought his foot back, and booted the Ember away.

    Greg opened his eyes to find the fireball flying towards him.

    He gasped in surprise.

    The Ember flew straight into his mouth.

    It exploded with a flash of light and smoke, Greg's roar barely reaching Sam's ears as Alice leapt away to land next to him.

    The smoke was thick and black, but as Sam panted for breath, the cloud faded away… and revealed Greg still standing upright, his mouth and jaw charred an obsidian black. Three streams of blood ran down the side of his face from the inside of his mouth.

    Groaning, eyes burning, Greg took one step forward.

    Sam and Alice held their ground.

    Greg took a second, wobbling.

    He didn't get a third.

    His eyes rolled back into his skull, and with a final sigh, toppled over backwards into the tree with an audible boom that made the plant shiver. His body slid down before finally slumping over into a big heap.

    Sam felt his shoulders sink, It's…. it's…

    Something snapped, and he looked up to find Kyle, still wrapped up in rope, falling free.

    Headfirst to the ground.

    Eyes widening, he tried to run forward. But it was too late as Kyle cried out, he couldn't-

    The Snom was bathed in a soft blue light, a confused whimper coming from the Bug-type as his descent slowed, the rope slowly unwrapping itself from him before an exposed, and unharmed Kyle was gently plopped down onto the floor.

    Blinking, Sam looked back towards the field.

    Behind them, Esper let her ears finally drop down, a little smile on her face as she looked over them. Behind her, the bandits were all scattered around the field, softly groaning as they laid on flat on the grass. Out of the fight, but very much alive.

    Save for that Mankey, arms and legs flailing as he found himself with Oscar's arm wrapped around in what was clearly a wrestling chokehold. Rolling his eyes, Oscar bumped his fist straight into the Mankey's face.

    That promptly calmed the monkey down, looking dazed within the lock.

    "Kyle!"

    Jack touched down not even half a metre away from Kyle, the Snom boosting to him at a speed that Sam didn't think was possible. "Papa! Papa!" he exclaimed, literally throwing himself at the Butterfree. Jack didn't hesitate, wrapping his arms round his son. "I-I'm so sorry Papa! I-I should have stayed at home!" Kyle sobbed, burying his face into the Butterfree's chest.

    "There there." Jack whispered with a clear quiver in his voice, holding the Snom close, "It's all cool… it's all okay now. You're safe buddy. I've got you." He looked up towards Sam and Alice, his red eyes visibly tearing up. "T-Thank you… I don't know how I can ever repay you."

    The adrenaline was now wearing thin from Sam's system, feeling rapidly more tired as his body slumped further over, throbbing from all the blows he had taken. A headache rolled through his skull, no surprise where that had come from.

    "You don't have to." Sam replied breathlessly. "It was the only thing we could do. Right Alic-"

    He turned to find her toppling over forward.

    Sam shot over to her, catching before her she even got halfway to the ground. She felt surprisingly light as he slipped one of her arms over his shoulder, her eyes flickering over to him with one hand pressed back against her side. That blow must have knocked the wind out of her.

    "I've got you." Sam quietly said, helping her back upright.

    He caught the small flash of surprise on her eyes.

    He didn't see the weak smile.

    "We'll get you patched up once we are back in town." Esper said as she walked up to them, rummaging a hand into her satchel, "We have some spare oran berries, that should- "

    "By golly he's persistent!"

    The Mankey had broke free of his captor's grip, scrambling into a run across the field. Esper sighed, "It's always the fighting-types isn't it?" she whispered to herself, opening up one of her ears again, which softly hummed with power.

    She didn't need to do anything though. He had reached the edge of the wood when a single red and yellow fist flew out and belted him in the nose. Stumbling back, the Mankey landed on his backside as the avian Pokémon emerged from the foliage, icy cool eyes looking down on the wide-eyed Pokémon.

    Rex crossed his arms, "Do you want to try that again?"

    Without hesitation, the Mankey snapped his arms up in surrender.

    "That's what I thought."

    The Guildmaster looked up towards the Pokémon across the field. He looked over Team Spirit, Kyle and the bandits in short order. He held his gaze on the still body of the Marowak, then the crumpled form of Greg. And finally, Sam and Alice, barely standing up at the foot of the tree. Sam could just make out the sharp intake of breath, before Rex composed himself just as suddenly.

    You watched from your perch, slowly sinking down as you observed the scene, your gaze mostly fixed on Sam and Alice.

    It seemed like your assistance wasn't necessary at all.

    Rex started making his way towards them, "Let's get you all home."

    And with that, we roll on to the final chapter of Episode 1. A short chapter, but with all the combat, I figured that was a reasonable approach. The next chapter will conclude Episode 1 of Guardians of Balance. The good news is, I have a pretty solid idea of how Episode 2 is now going to proceed! So I can start planning out finer details for the story ahead.

    I am still planning on doing bonus chapters in the lull between the two episodes though, so any suggestions or anything you would be particularly interested, that would be greatly appreciated it! So if you could please post/comment, that would be a big help for me! I've got some support behind a Team Spirit focused chapter, but any other ideas would be great.

    Chapter XXV will be coming within a week provided nothing much happens, as I want to wrap up this Episode and bring it to a close. Either way, again, I hope you enjoyed this new Chapter!
     
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  • Threadmarks
    • Neat.

    wonder if the Marowak is actually dead...

    he IS a ghost type after all...
     
    Chapter XXV - Audacity
  • Threadmarks
    • ALWAYS AUDACITY
    CHAPTER XXV – AUDACITY    ​
    ​

    Rex's office was just as welcoming as ever, given the soft seats and the little details and accessories placed within it. There was nothing that its owner had done to try and make someone physically uncomfortable to be there.

    And yet, Sam still felt uneasy. Mainly thanks to the pain, now reduced to a dull throb that ran through his entire body. Almost as if he had pins and needles stabbing his… well, everything. After the last few days of getting beaten and torn apart, no amount of Heal Pulses was going to actually help the process of healing now. Sam would have to heal up the old-fashioned way now. Even if he could take an extra Heal Pulse, there were Pokémon who would need far more help physically and mentally compared to himself and even if there wasn't he doubted Rebecca would be wanting to treat him again.

    Actually, it was probably best he didn't see her at all for a bit.

    But it wasn't just that. It was also impatience. Sam remained on station along with Alice, Rex and Team Spirit until other members of the Guild could arrive to relieve them, as well as apprehending the remaining bandits. Once those numbers had been built up, Rex directed Sam and Alice to accompany Jack and Kyle back to Robinswood.

    Whilst father and son would hurry back home upon their return, the two rabbits had very specific orders to wait for at Rex's office for the Guildmaster.

    The Scorbunny paced across the upper part of the office, brow furrowed in thought. It had been over an hour since they arrived here and there was still no sign of Rex. He could hear the signs of increased activity below, and the sky seemed that little bit brighter in the direction of the port. But even so, the wait was gradually wearing the Scorbunny fine.

    "If you keep walking like that you'll burn a hole through the floor." Alice said.

    The Buneary was sat down on one of the wooden seats by the desk, one ear lazily raised with her eyes closed and hands behind her head. Sam glanced between her and the floor, then the bottom of his feet. "I suppose you're right." Sam admitted. I mean, if I can set pebbles on fire, this wood wouldn't last very long.

    He shook his head, "This is just taking too long." He said, walking up to the chair alongside Alice's and climbing on to it. "What if something has gone wrong? Aidan could have pulled another trick or Greg could have got back up."

    "You're worrying too much." Alice replied, opening her eyes and pulling a thrown. "They have Rex there. He can handle anything. And I'd be surprised if Aidan pulls something else out now."

    Sam sighed, looking towards the empty high-backed chair. "I just can't shake this feeling that something else could happen."

    "A little bit of caution isn't unfounded, but I am a little hurt at your lack of faith."

    Both rabbit's ears jerked up as Rex strode into the office, rubbing one of his wrists with his free hand. Sam bounced to his feet, "Rex! I didn't mean any offence-"

    "Don't worry about it too much." Esper reassured him, stepping into the room just behind the Guildmaster with a small smile. "The old man likes to spook people from time to time."

    Rex visibly rolled his eyes, a chuckle breaking out. "Thank you for spoiling my trade secret Esper." He motioned with one hand as he climbed up the steps. "Please, stay seated."

    Sam plopped himself back down as Rex walked behind the desk, standing to look through the window overlooking Robinswood whilst the Meowstic positioned herself by one of the curtains lining the edge of the room. Rex held his gaze, looking over the town with a practiced eye for a solid minute. Even leaning slightly to the side or closer in to get a better view of some invisible scene down below before turning back towards the recruits. "Apologies for keeping you waiting. You'll be glad to know the fire looked worse than it actually was. A few Pokémon will need some time in the clinic, but we'll expect a full recovery from everyone."

    "Kyle is sleeping back home." Esper added, arms crossed. "He's shaken up quite a bit, but I'll be working with Jack and his partner to make sure he's okay."

    Sam sighed with relief, almost sensing his heart loosen itself up. It was a win on both fronts. The main thing that mattered there was the lives of the Pokémon, Kyle especially given what he had been through. Frankly, Sam couldn't care any less if the dock burnt to a crisp, as long as everyone there was safe.

    "Sounds like we got lucky there." Alice mused, "And what about the bandits?"

    "All locked back up in the prison." Rex confirmed, "I've seen to it personally that our old friend has been given a sturdier cell and extra guards."

    It took Sam a couple of seconds to realise what he meant. "You can't be serious. He's-"

    Rex nodded, "Greg's alive. He's badly hurt, but he'll live with treatment."

    "He can't be talking. Not with the fireballs we threw down his mouth." Alice said.

    "Thankfully so." Rex replied, "He wasn't happy to say the least. And I can understand his circumstances."

    Sam frowned, biting back at the urge to growl. "He's a crook. He deserves to get locked up."

    "That's if he is lucky." Esper said quietly, eyes narrowing.

    Alice tilted her head at that one, "I don't see how that's lucky."

    Esper glanced over at the Guildmaster, the avian Pokémon merely motioning with his hand towards the two Pokémon. "Before we left for Broken Wood, I sent out information requests regarding Greg and his gang." Esper started explaining, stepping away from the wall. "In case there was a bounty on any of them. I received a criminal record from Grass Continent."

    She hesitated for a moment, "Greg has over a dozen charges relating to thievery. Four charges of assault… and one charge of murder on the Grass Continent."

    Esper let the words hang in the air for a moment. He committed murder before coming here? Sam pondered, but the train of thought was quickly stopped as the Meowstic continued. "According to the report, Greg had killed a shopkeeper by breaking his neck during a break in gone wrong. Greg always insisted that it was an accident, of how he has always been stronger than most of his species. But the law on Grass ultimately treated it as murder."

    It was Sam's turn to tilt his head, twitching his ears, "And he managed to get away out here."

    "And he's certainly killed more since then." Rex said, "That Marowak may well be the latest, provided he doesn't somehow come back to life on us, being part-ghost type. Regardless, Grass has jurisdiction over us. We're required to add additional charges as witnessed. That's at least another three charges of murder, as well as kidnapping."

    Rex let the words hang for another second before Esper continued, "If Greg is lucky, he'll face a life sentence. If not…"

    She didn't continue, but the implication was obvious. Sam's mouth dropped open a couple of millimetres, one ear tipping over. He wasn't sure what to think. Pleased with Greg facing something as severe as a death sentence… or horrified that it was even on the table.

    That would make all his talk about survival make sense. He knew if he got caught, he would probably be biting the bullet not long after.

    Not that it made Sam feel sorry for Greg. Understand his position perhaps, but it didn't excuse everything he has done.

    "Either way. Greg will be out of our hands soon enough. He'll be transported back to Grass to stand trial." Rex stated, before lowering himself down into the high-backed chair. "That leaves only two problems. Aidan and Zeke."

    Alice blinked. "Zeke?"

    "The Electrike that Sam and Aidan recovered from Broken Wood." Esper explained. "He's a member of the missing Team Nitro."

    Sam straightened back up in his seat, the memory of the crazed electric Pokémon resurfacing with a vengeance, enough that his head pulsed more sharply than before. "I remember too well." Sam said with a wince, "What's up with him?"

    Esper didn't need any blessing from Rex this time, "He's still in a coma. Even Rebecca had no luck in reviving him. Given the state he was in and the condition of Broken Wood, we have to assume that his team mates are either just as crazed, or dead."

    "How he even got into that state is a more interesting question." Rex stated, "But until we can find a way to rouse him or look into his mind, monitoring him is the best we can do."

    That wasn't exactly comforting. Zeke was effectively a complete mystery compared to everything that happened. And Sam couldn't help but feel annoyed with himself for forgetting about the electric type.

    "Aidan is a problem for obvious reasons." Rex stated, "But between the port attack, Broken Wood and Greg's kidnapping, he will be long gone now. The best we can do is arrange for a bounty, but it'll be a long time before that could be recouped.

    "He's covered his tracks for so long, we'll probably never find him again." Alice stated.

    Sam looked down to find his paws screwing up into balls. They may have succeeded in saving those lives, but Aidan had still got away with everything he wanted. At least at the surface anyway. He let out a frustrated sigh, "We'll find him." He grumbled under his breath, "Someday."

    "We will." Rex said quietly, prompting the Scorbunny to jerk back upright.

    The Guildmaster clicked his beak. "Putting all that aside." He started, leaning forward onto the desk. "We must settle on your punishment."

    Sam blinked, his mouth slackening as the gravity of what Rex just said kicked him in the gut.

    "Are you-kidding me!"

    Sam and Alice's voices rang out with a joint shrill, loud enough that Esper seemed to recoil from the edge.

    Rex barely reacted to that, nor to Sam leaping up onto his feet. "Seriously! We saved Kyle and beat the crap out of Greg when no one else was on hand!"

    Alice bared her teeth, "How does this make sense!?" she growled.

    Rex's eyes narrowed, the Blaziken stiffening in his seat as he held an unflinching glare. "I gave you very specific orders to guard Robinswood." He stated, "And to send someone to report any incidents to me if anything had happened."

    Sam snapped his arms out to the sides, nostrils flaring. "You know what Greg is capable of! I couldn't jus-"

    An avian fist slammed into the desk, the boom ringing through the entire room. Sam's rage was extinguished in an instant, the Blaziken quaking in front of him. Even Alice's eyes widened in fear, tucking back against her chair. Of to one side, Esper was smirking. "Instead of waiting for support, you both leave Robinswood less defended, with only your fellow recruits!" Rex barked, "Instead, you run into the woods to fight a powerful Pokémon who has already killed other Pokémon, without informing anyone of where you were going or leaving indicators of where you had been! If it wasn't for Perry informing Team Spirit of your plans and the tracks Greg had left behind, you would have had to face Greg and his crew alone!"

    The Scorbunny stepped back into the back of his chair, stomach sinking as the Guildmaster rose to his feet, the temperature of the room rising with him. "Your fool-hardy charge into danger could have got you and others killed or wounded! Your attempt at heroics-" he jabbed a finger into the air, eyes flicking over to Alice to promptly shut her up, her mouth hanging ajar before continuing. "Your heroics may have saved a life, but you may not be so lucky next time! Even though you have the best of intentions in mind and the will to risk your lives for the sake of others, you will need guidance for the far greater challenges to come!"

    Rex leaned forward, pointing a finger straight at the two of them. "With that in mind! You will both receive the Bronze Rank upon your initiation into the Guild!"

    Sam recoiled, about to throw a challenge back. But it died just as quickly on his tongue. Wait, Bronze Rank? What?

    At the edge of the room, Esper had a gigantic smile on her face as the Blaziken held his gaze on the two frozen rabbits, before with a sparkle in his eyes, he leaned back upwards, a little smile on his face… and clearly struggling not to chuckle. Sam sighed, his legs giving out as he slid down back onto his seat and burying his head into his hands. Hidden out of sight, he pulled a small smirk.

    "That wasn't funny." Alice growled, shaking her head as she relaxed into her seat. But her expression indicated that she didn't have the will to get angry with the Guildmaster.

    "This humour doesn't suit me, I admit." Rex wheezed, coughing to stop the chuckle.

    Esper's smile widened, "Like I said, the old man likes to spook people."

    "I know all too well." Alice replied, rolling her eyes with arms crossed.

    "And now I do." Sam replied, bringing his face out of his hands. "But Bronze Rank? What's that all about?"

    With a final cough, Rex straightened himself back up in his seat. "In all seriousness, what you did was reckless and dangerous." He nodded firmly at the two rabbits as they got themselves resettled onto their seats. "But at the same time, I can't deny your own abilities. Very few Rescuers could go through what you two have been through at such short notice." He tapped a talon on the desk, "Therefore, rather than bringing you into the guild at Normal Rank along with the others, we might as well give you a rank more fitting for your abilities. Two ranks up to be exact. And at the same time, make sure you each receive more advanced training. So you can put that talent to the appropriate kind of use."

    Esper's smile faded away, "The last time someone jumped up the ranks like that was Team Spirit." She explained, "That was five years ago. And before that, it was a Team that played a major role in the Dark Matter Crisis. Getting a higher rank out of the blue is an indicator that you could be rubbing elbows with some of the best teams in the world sooner rather than later. Thats a lot of responsibility that you need to be willing to accept when the time comes."

    Sam sharply took in a bit of breath. It was a huge leap up in the rankings… but was he even ready for that? He felt his gut tighten, but with another breath, his body relaxed once more. He had already been through Broken Wood and multiple fights to the death. That, and for some reason being a Rescuer, even on training felt so fulfilling to him. Saving a few more lives here and there, he could get behind that.

    Nevermind possibly finding out more about who he was.

    "So Sam?" Rex questioned, "What do you say?"

    He realised that the two leading Pokémon were staring at him. Sam straightened himself up, eyes flicking between the two before letting a small smile shine through. "Thanks Rex. Count me in."

    Rex's eyes sparkled briefly before he nodded back. "Very well then. Welcome to the Robinswood Guild." He motioned with a hand, "I can get an individual rank arranged, but we still need to arrange for you to join a team. My powers and ability to call in favours aren't exactly limitless."

    Sam visible winced, "Sh- I forgot about that. I was going to ask Bruce if he and his team would be fine with me tagging along." He rubbed the back of his head with a nervous look, "But if you want me to join another Bronze Rank team, I won't object."

    "I can pull up a few names, see if they have any spaces on hand." Esper said, "I would be more than happy to put you into Team Spirit, same with Alice, but as we're at Diamond Rank, it wouldn't really be fair to throw you into the deep end."

    After what Sam had been through, he couldn't really argue against that. There wasn't much point in Sam cramping Spirit's style. Just knowing them would be good enough.

    "Speaking of which," Rex started, turning back towards Alice. "I know you said you would drop out Alice, but there are still spaces open if you wish to join the Guild."

    The Buneary's expression was surprisingly neutral, at least at first glance. Her head dipped forward, eyes flicking towards the ground. "Actually." She said softly, "I've already got an offer to join a team."

    Alice lifted her head back up, looking towards Sam.

    "If that offer's still open Sam?"

    That hit him like an Onix. Sam only just managed to stop himself gaping at her as he spun round. "Alice!" he managed to utter in surprise, "I thought-"

    "I didn't want to make your life hell?" she finished for him, stepping off the chair and dropping down to the floor. "I still don't want do that. But…" she visibly hesitated, as if trying to work out what to say next. Before closing her eyes and with a little smile, shrugged. "To be honest, we made quite the team and it felt kinda… nice to work with someone who just saw me as… me. Rather than some curse. So I guess… why not?"

    "Alice…" Sam said softly, dropping down from his own seat shakily, unsure if he was dreaming or if this was really happening.

    She opened her eyes again, letting her smile grow. "Sam. I would be more than happy to form a team with you, if you'd have me." She reached out a hand, "Partners?"

    He blinked, staring down at the open hand. Still processing it all. But he didn't question it. Now wasn't the time to do that.

    Sam couldn't stop himself beaming a massive smile at Alice, "Partners." He declared warmly, clapping his hand against hers and squeezing it tight.

    If anything, Alice's hand squeezed even tighter.

    Rex and Esper glanced towards each other, sharing a joint smile between themselves before the guildmaster turned back towards the two rabbits. "Well, welcome to the Guild you two. I never thought I would see the day anyone would have the audacity to pair up in such a way."

    They let go, Sam raising a brow at Rex's choice of words. But before he could question it, the Blaziken continued. "That makes the paperwork easier as a bonus." He admitted, "We can mark you in as a Bronze Rank Rescue Team, but with the recent events, we are going to officially bring in the new members tomorrow as a morale boost. That means we are going to need a name, colours and a symbol. Tonight."

    Alice's smile vanished, "Ah crap…" she uttered, "I've… kinda didn't think of anything like that. Didn't think I would have much of a choice."

    She glanced over at Sam before shrugging sheepishly, "If you have any ideas, I'm all ears."

    Crap, this is a bit on the spot is it!? Sam thought, a cold sweat seeming to kick in on his brow. I mean, I haven't put much thought into it either! Not that I thought we would have so little time. He tapped his foot, rubbing the back of his head, What could I use? A name should have a good meaning. It should show we're daring right? Regardless of how daft it… seems…

    The word flashed back in his mind. The one that Rex had used. He didn't really know the reasoning for that choice of word but at the same time, knowing the definition behind it – it could work. That left symbol and colours.

    That was easy, his hand automatically reaching for his jacket pocket. It was still there, the armband. It couldn't be a perfect match. No way. He couldn't use their emblem like that. Inspiration though… that could work.

    "Actually." Sam started, "I might actually have something we could work with."


    The sun was slowly beginning to rise, but the forest floor remained dark enough to conceal his movements from any prying eyes above his head.

    Aidan didn't bother looking up though, his eyes fixed on the path ahead with his sack slung over his shoulder. His attack on the port went without a hitch. In and out before anyone had noticed he was there. Paired with his plan to use Greg as a distraction, his aim to extract all remaining traces of his operation would have been easily hidden away or outright removed.

    The Frogadier croaked a heavy growl. Of course Greg had to be an idiot and blow it. Again, something so incredibly simple and yet again, the Swampert had made a complete hash of his objectives. He was lucky to get out the obvious evidence and material. The rest he would have to make do with being hidden away from prying eyes.

    Still, he hadn't counted on Sam and his cursed little friend. Aidan took the time to march by the clearing he had told Greg to use. And what did he find? That damn fire rabbit, someone he trusted kicking the shit out of the beast with the cursed bitch.

    He had to admit, Sam had grown so much since he met him in the barracks. It was almost admirable in a way, Sam was audacious. The Frogadier had to love him for that.

    He shook his head in disgust, pushing onwards. Even so, Aidan kicked himself for not breaking the Scorbunny's neck when he had the chance. It was something so easy for himself to accomplish, it would have only taken a second. He let his feelings get the better of him. He would have to do better to keep them in check.

    Afterall, he didn't slip up before with Team Nitro.

    The Pikachu Owen and his team weren't the first ones to get a whiff of his operation. Zeke and his own team managed to get a glimpse of his operation before. He had hoped that they only caught an unclear glance of things in action. But as it became clear that they were starting to dig around for more information, he realised it would be best for them to 'disappear'.

    It was surprisingly easy. Poison Zeke, have them wonder into a Dungeon on an out of the blue rescue mission, and await the call for them being missing. So convenient, so easy.

    And again, out of nowhere, he finds Zeke with Sam in tow. He couldn't risk Zeke regaining consciousness, no matter how crazy he was and potentially connect the dots. So whilst everyone was off trading stories around the campfire, he quietly slipped in and poisoned him again. Fingers crossed, Zeke won't be waking up anytime soon.

    Still, this was a setback. He would have to rebuild comms and trust with his contacts once he had established his operations. That would-

    -take time?

    Aidan stopped dead in his tracks, eyes flicking towards the source. Leaning against one of the trees was a tall, slender figure. A black cloak wrapped round her – at least, he thought it was a her – judging by the voice. Was that telepathy? Or was it just so… otherworldly that it seemed to resonate inside his head. He turned to face her, placing the sack down to one side. "Who are you?" he questioned, readying himself into a combat position.

    The cloaked figure pushed herself off the wall, revealing herself to be towering over him without any problems. I am merely a… intermediary. She said, My master has a proposal for you.

    Aidan frowned, shaking his head. "I would be more than happy to arrange a meeting with your… employer." He said, "But my hands are somewhat tied right now. If you allow me time to establish a new base of operations, then we can set up a business-"

    My master will see that you are established. This proposal cannot wait.

    She waved a clothed arm to one side of the tree, stepping aside. Something flickered in the air beside them. With a brief flash of light, the air itself folded on itself, and with a low and heavy boom, a colourful tunnel formed alongside her.

    Aidan's eyes widened, taking a step at the back. "What is this?" he whispered.

    All will be explained.

    Aidan hesitated, his mind racing. If someone could do this…

    Reaching down to grab the sack, Aidan stepped forward, and followed the cloaked figure into the tunnel.


    "…and despite these challenges, we have all shown that it doesn't matter where we have come from. We have stood together and emerged not only stronger, but closer together as Pokémon." Rex said, standing on a wooden stage positioned in front of the Guildtree. The sun was shining high above the town and before him, most of the citizens of the town were gathered. Amongst them, a great many members of the guild, all decked out in their team colours. He could see Team Spirit off to one side, watching with clear smiles on their faces. A round of applause rang out amongst the wider crowd, a few cheers accompanying them. The guildmaster let them proceed, adjusting the two armbands he had on his arms. One was the black and gold armband he normally wore, the other was a red and gold one that flashed the emblem of a five pointed shooting star.

    "When I took up the post of Guildmaster here, I did so for three reasons. Firstly, to play one final, relaxed role in the Guilds before I decide to retire, after thirty years of work."

    He let the words hang in air for a moment, before casually lifting his hands up to his sides. "Guess how that turned out."

    Laughter rose up from the crowd at that, the guildmaster letting a little chuckle slip out. "Secondly, to do my absolute best to make this Guild one of the most welcoming in the world, making a difference to help every single person in this town, just as I have done for years."

    Rex placed his hands behind his back, "And thirdly, so I could perform the greatest of honours. Welcoming the next generation. Pokémon of Robinswood. I am incredibly proud to welcome three new Rescue Teams to the ranks of the guild. It doesn't matter where they have come from, and every single one has shown extraordinary resilience, willpower, compassion… and courage. And we are delighted to count them among us."

    He stepped to one side, Esper climbing up onto the platform to join him, holding a chest up in place. "First of all, Team Active and it's members Edward and Denver!"

    Another round of applause rolled forth from the crowd as the Skiddo and Skorupi emerged from the Guildtree and climbed up onto the platform, the latter having his injured legs wrapped up in light bandages. The two were visibly beaming as Rex and Esper pulled out a pair of red scarves with a bright green emblem on them, as well as two peach coloured badges and secured them on their person.

    As the two Pokémon gave each other the best high five they could, Rex turned back to the crowd, motioning for them to simmer down. "Next up, we have Bruce, Nia and Dan as Team Seekers!

    Bruce led the way up onto the stage, with Dan shakily following close behind. The little Morpeko was so nervous, he nearly toppled over back down the stairs, eyes widening. But with a flutter of her wings, Nia appeared alongside him and pulled him back onto the platform. Bruce took a glance at them, his massive smile faltering only briefly as he made sure the two were okay. Once they were all safely up, they lined up like Team Active, and received their own badges alongside their green scarves – armband in the case of Dan – complete with a white emblem composed of a leaf, a pair of wings and a lightning bolt.

    As the crowd quietened down once more with the three Pokémon sharing one giant hug between, Rex once more gained their attention. "And finally, our final new members. I would like you to join me in welcoming Sam and Alice, of Team Audacity!"

    Sam took in a sharp breath, one foot already on the step as the clapping began. "Ready?" he asked.

    Alice shrugged, "As ready as I'll ever be. Just don't expect a lot of applause."

    The Scorbunny merely tilted an ear at that one, "We'll deal with it." he replied, and with a final check, the two climbed up in lockstep and into view.

    On cue, the crowd seemed to quiet down, a few cheers being cut short. Sam felt a cold feeling sink into his gut, were they really not going to give them a chance? No, he had to stay strong. Keep up a-

    But then the cheers re-erupted, the applause rising back up once more even louder than ever. Enough that the Scorbunny actually slowed mid-step. He glanced over towards Alice, the Buneary also slowing. Her eyes blinked rapidly, as if trying to workout if this was a dream herself.

    A few whistles blew through the air. The two other teams turning and clapping their paws or cheering them over. Even Bruce and Denver couldn't help but pull small smiles as they approached.

    Sam could hear her sniff.

    He didn't leave her hanging, wrapping an arm over her shoulder as they walked up to join the others. I've got you partner.

    She looked over at him, trying and failing to hold a little smile at bay. "T-Thank you."

    Rex smiled as they pulled up alongside the others, reaching into the chest and pulling out a pair of woad blue armbands from it. Each one christened with a silver X-shaped star, overlaid with an oval shaped tear that symmetrically cut the X in two. Similar, but not identical to the Guardian emblem. If the Guardians seemed as noble as they sounded, it seemed reasonable to be inspired by their exploits.

    "Congratulations." Rex said proudly as he placed the perfectly fitting armbands on, holding back for a moment as the two rabbits adjusted them before reaching back into the chest and pulling out two similar, but differently coloured badges from the others. These ones were coloured gold rather than peach, with a small egg-shaped object at its centre with two clear wings stretching out to the sides. At the centre of the egg, surrounded by the gold, was a green coloured gem. The Bronze Badge.

    Rex handed the two Guild Badges over, the Scorbunny marvelling over the craftsmanship of the badge as it settled neatly into his hand. It's official now… Sam mused, feeling a warmth burn in his chest. As Rex addressed the crowd once more, he turned towards his partner. "Everything you expected?" he quietly asked.

    Alice didn't look at him, eyes fixed on her own badge. "No. Not really."

    He raised a brow at that as she turned towards him with a wink, "But it still feels nice."

    Sam smiled back, "I'll take that."

    "There will be greater challenges to come." Rex stated, addressing the crowd and dragging Team Audacity's attention back to the front of the stage. "But with luck, courage and friendship on our side, we will overcome whatever disasters come our way and get back to what this guild, and this town, was founded to do in the first place." He stretched his arms out to the side, directing his words to all present. "To explore this world. Together!"

    He did a small bow, before stepping aside and putting his hands together. "One more time, let us welcome our newest Guild members! Team Active! Team Seekers! And Team Audacity!"

    The crowd erupted into a ravenous roar of applause, and with their newfound guildmates cheering at their side, Sam and Alice shared a wink and pumped their badges above their heads, soaking in the cheers from Robinswood.

    POKÉMON MYSTERY DUNGEON​
    GUARDIANS OF BALANCE​
    ​


    EPILOGUE​
    ​

    Night had once more fallen over the town, and the only light available in the office was a small, glowing white orb placed on the table.

    Rex was seated, looking down on the two objects held in hand. In his left, was the red armband he had worn at the initiation ceremony today, complete with the gold shooting star. In the other, he held a small-framed photograph. It was slightly brown in colouration, but he could still make out all the original colours on it. And most importantly, the Pokémon.

    Four of them stood in the shot. To the far left, holding the photograph device known as a camera with his right arm was a Combusken, a happy expression on his face. Behind him, a little bit further along to the right was a Kirlia, who despite the feminine look was actually male. He held what appeared to be a sword blade in one hand as he looked up at the camera, flashing an inquisitive look at the camera. Further still to the right, was a Buneary and a small looking Zangoose with a tuft on his head, the latter looking slightly panicky as the Buneary was growling viciously at the feline. Neither had seen the photo being taken.

    All four bearing the same red armbands with a golden star.

    Rex couldn't resist smiling at the sight. Team S.T.A.R. Those were-.

    A knock clunked across the room, the Guildmaster placing the armband and photo flat on his desk. "Come in."

    A door swung open and creaked shut, and out of the darkness of the lower level, Alice emerged. Her blue armband still fitted to the arm along with her Bronze Rank badge fitted to it. "Hello Alice." Rex greeted her, "How are you settling in with Sam?"

    "I've settled in the new room well enough." Alice replied, one hand placed on her hip. "Sam is staying in the barracks for tonight. He wanted to check up with Kyle and Jack one more time, but he'll be up here tomorrow morning." She tilted her head, "That, and he wanted to check over Aidan's room again. Just in case."

    Rex nodded, listening carefully to her words. Aidan's betrayal had clearly hit Sam hard, but he was grateful that Sam was taking the time to check on Jack's family. "Are you alright with that?"

    "I encouraged him." Alice said, pulling a little smile. "Kinda makes sense, and I can get stuff sorted out in our room and we get less looks with Jack. It's a win-win."

    The smile faded as she focused on Rex, "Did you want me?"

    "Yes." Rex said, turning in his seat to the side, "I wanted to show you something."

    As Alice made her way round the edge of the desk, Rex pulled out one of the drawers and reached inside. He pulled out two badges from the drawer. They resembled the guild badges he had given out today, but the wings were more angular, the eggs were sharper and lacked an outline. Both were silver, with a crystalline, shining core at their centre. The Buneary's eyes widened, "Are those old Diamond Rank Badges?" she questioned.

    "Indeed they are." Rex explained, "Rescue Badges from before the ranking changes made them Master Rank."

    He handed the two over to her. "They belonged to your parents."

    Alice froze, her hand hovering over the two badges before she took them carefully from his hand. "W-Where did you find them?"

    "I went back to Avio Town last year." Rex said. "Not much has changed since then. Including your old home."

    He leaned forward in the chair, "I know you never wanted to return but… I felt then was the time for myself to get some closure." He motioned at the badges. "They had them in their safe. I had a spare key." He closed his eyes, "They belong to you now."

    Alice looked over the badges, wiping her eyes. "Mum and Dad… are they…"

    Rex nodded, "They were still there." He whispered softly. "Someone had left flowers before I arrived."

    A bit more hesitantly, she nodded back, eyes focused on the badges. "Good." She managed to say, looking back up at Rex. "Thank you."

    "Your welcome child." The guildmaster replied. "Alice. If your parents were here right now… they would be incredibly proud of you."

    "I know." The Buneary replied, holding them close to her chest. "Master Rank, right?"

    "Indeed."

    A small smile formed on her lips. "Then I've got a lot of work to do catch up. Same time tomorrow for training?"

    Rex let out an amused huff, "Same time. Nice and early tomorrow."

    "Got it. I'll see you then." She turned and made her towards the office door.

    The Blaziken turned to watch her go, "I'm not going to make it easy on you kiddo." He said warmly. "You're Bronze Rank now."

    Alice turned round to face him, backstepping as she flashed a wink. "Whatever you say Uncle. I'll be ready."

    Rex smiled as Alice departed the room, leaving him all alone. He stared at the closed door for a solid minute, I've not seen Alice so happy in two years. Tyera and Sylvain would be glad to see that.

    Standing up, Rex took the glowing orb and the photograph of Team S.T.A.R and brought it over towards one of the bookshelves at the side of the office and placed it down next to another, newer photograph. In that one, standing side by side were four fully evolved Pokémon. A Blaziken, a Gallade, and with one arm wrapped around the other, a Lopunny and Zangoose. All four sharing the same red armbands.

    Rex felt his smile grow wider, Rest in peace old friends.

    There was one more thing he needed to do tonight. It couldn't wait.

    He returned to the desk, reaching back into the drawer and pulling out a blue, coin shaped device with five orbs fitted to the sides, leaving a slot where a sixth one would be. Taking a blue orb out, Rex slotted it into the device. It beeped in response, lighting up as Rex placed it down onto the desk.

    He went through the options on the modified Expedition Gadget and opened up the system he wanted to use. It beeped once, then twice. And finally clicked before going silent.

    "Luke?" Rex asked, "Are you there?"

    A sharp crackle and whine rang out from the device, enough for Rex to wince before the voice finally emerged from the other end. "Sorry about that Rex. The signal is pretty bad around here, I would have got in touch with you sooner. How cushy has life been?"

    Luke spoke with a light, but distinctive accent that seemed somewhat rough. Not to different from-

    He shook his head, "Rather busy actually, keeping yourself occupied out there?"

    "You could say that. So what do you need old friend?"

    Rex tapped the desk, hesitating for only a second before finally speaking. "I believe we have found a human."

    The gadget crackled, almost as something had been dropped before Luke's voice came through again. Firmer this time. "Are you sure?"

    "My deputy Esper caught a psychic trace from him just last night." Rex replied, "She was spooked enough she actually got tripped up by some Spinaraks in a fight, but she is positive that he considers himself human."

    "Esper, Esper…" Luke mused, "Wasn't she the one who worked with Auraflame during the Dark Matter Crisis?"

    "One and the same. She mentioned that once she picked up that trace, she couldn't help but make the connection between Sam and Auraflame."

    "Sam?"

    "The human. Well, he's a Scorbunny now."

    "Any other familiar symptoms?" Luke quizzed him, "Amnesia? Any strange powers?"

    "He only remembers his name as far as we know." Rex said, "He has Libero, but that isn't ground-breaking on it's own, especially since it's been sporadic."

    "Sporadic?"

    "It barely activates."

    "I see. Has he mentioned himself being human yet?"

    Rex shook his head, "Not to my knowledge. Only myself and Esper have an inkling of his status."

    Luke audibly sighed with relief, "Good. We don't need anyone trying to chase him up on that."

    "He's joined my Guild with my niece." Rex confirmed, "And he at the very least has good intentions, but Luke… if Sam is indeed a human-"

    "Then these disasters are just the beginning." Luke finished for him. "I can pack up and be out of here by tomorrow, but have you tried to speak with the others?"

    "Esper has tried to get back in touch with Team Auraflame, but they are currently working on a project back in their village. Last I heard from home, Team Warden has been having trouble between it's members for months. Team Relic is out of contact on an archelogy expedition and Team Heart was never officially a guild team anyway, and without them having a Expedition Gadget it would take too much time to get a message to Paradise without my best messenger anyway."

    "So I'm your best bet. I'll pack my things now. I'll be on my way within the hour. The best thing you can do now is to keep an eye on Sam and Alice. If Esper is correct –"

    "They are equally in as much danger." Rex noted, feeling his chest tighten up. "I am all to aware. Especially if his warning is true."

    "After all this time? Possibly. He did try and end the world because of it."

    Rex leaned back in his chair, eyes narrowing. "I'll protect them." He stated, "But we need to confirm this as soon as possible. It'll be up to us to guide them, so they'll be ready for this threat when the time comes."

    "Including Alice?"

    Rex hesitated, the word nearly dying on his tongue. "Yes." He said softly, "Especially her."

    "We'll get it done Rex."

    Swallowing, Rex nodded firmly, talons digging into his desk. "Of course. I'll hold the fort until you arrive. Then we can work out how to stop what he warned us off all those years ago."

    He hissed the next word out, "Armageddon."

    Luke chuckled from the other side of the device, "Believe me Rex. Even considering where I'm based at the moment… I'll be there before you know it."


    Sam turned under the sheets, eyes squeezed shut as he shifted position in his sleep.

    You had positioned yourself on the other side of the room, sitting yourself down on what had been Aidan's bed. You watched him intently, wanting to reach out and put a hand on his shoulder. Try and comfort him. But a part of you knew that he wouldn't even feel it.

    Still with him, hmm?

    The shadow formed alongside you, plopping down next to you with a swirl of darkness. He has proven most resilient. I know you wanted to jump in and help him again. There might have been a moment where that was necessary. With Aidan and with the Swampert. Thankfully for you, he has Alice to watch over him as well, so any action on your part was unnecessary.

    Sam twitched, shifting position once more as the shadow joined you in watching. I have seen the mural by the way. The shadow explained, It took a great, painful amount of effort to avoid Volcanion's attention, but it has paid off, if only in pennies.

    You turned towards him, a shadowy hand rising up into the air, The mural is most certainly ancient. Even the language eludes me. However, I did recognise the stylisation of the art. It was once created by an ancient civilization of Pokémon. One that was so isolated, that even the gods themselves don't know the answer of what happened to them.

    The shadow turned towards you, Conveniently, at the same time that Volcanion vanished so did they. And the art style has existed on practically every continent in some form. That being said, I have only seen a similar design in one other place… could it-

    It shook it's head, turning it's gaze towards Sam, still stirring. You watched on in silence. An ancient civilization was certainly a valuable piece of the puzzle. But where? And how did this sort out the problem before you?

    I believe part of the answer, The shadow continued, Lies in Sam's dreams.

    You turned towards him, the shadow pausing before pressing on, Do you remember when we first met? There was a dream of an ancient castle under siege. I have… experience with dreams. And I can make a fair guess it was Sam's before he woke up in this world.

    The shadow seemed to hesitate; I have a suspicion… he could potentially have the same dream again. Perhaps with more context. Yes… even from here I can sense it. In the corner of his mind and yet with what has happened to him… it's just out of reach to him. But perhaps I can tap into it. Hopefully without-

    They paused, turning back to you. If you wish, I can try and bring that dream into focus. Perhaps we can all learn something. But I must warn you… it will be quite… vivid.

    You looked between the shadow and Sam himself. What to do… what answer could be learnt from within…


    The castle was in flames. Dark clouds blanketing the sky. The distant cry of battle and death ringing far below.

    Atop one of the battlements, watching over the battle in the courtyard being fought below, was a yellow and black feline. Piercing blue eyes watched on, fists clenched at the chaos. At the death.

    The Zeraora was clearly enraged, but they held their tongue. Maintaining a cold expression as they watched on. The situation was dire. There wasn't much time.

    What was clear to any viewer now however, was the armband it wore. A blue one with a silver cross and tear embroidered onto it.

    "Maister!"

    Eyes widening only a touch, the Zeraora turned to find a tall, red and white rabbit sprinting towards them. A Cinderace, a blue armband also wrapped round their arm. But when they spoke, the words were… indiscernible. Strange, and yet familiar. "The tete is aseelid, and the path is openyd! The gounglings, seruaunt, and handmaide goith out, and oure sistris fleen!"

    The orange eyes looked down the battlefield below. "We han no ferther tyme to spare maister. I wol se the def-"

    "Ye wolen." The Zeraora interrupted in the strange language, "Y wole that ye lede hem to sikirnesse, and that ye seche oure biheest. And if oure ordre falle here, Y schal yyue hope to oure werriours to fle."

    The Cinderace looked alarmed. "But maister, ye wol been expos!"

    "Aventure I shal take." The Zeraora continued, much more softly this time. "As ye wole with youre heestis. If Y make the mesure, be ye spred abrood; be ye hid in derknessis, for to serue the liyt, as oure lord comaundide."

    The Cinderace opened his mouth, ready to argue back. Before his ears dipped. Closing his eyes, the Cinderace placed an arm across his chest and bowed his head. "I wol kepe hem maister."

    That seemed to satisfy the Zeraora, the feline smiling as they stepped forward and placed a hand on the Cinderace's shoulder. "I woot ye wole brother. Now go ye. And ealdor alwealda fro the bigynnyng kepe you, as youre herte goith."

    Raising his head, the Cinderace smiled and placed a hand of their own on the Zeraora's shoulder. They shared a final nod before finally letting go, the Cinderace sprinting back into the depths of the castle. The Zeraora watched them go, slowly rebuilding their steely expression. A flash of green caught the Zeraora's attention, bringing them back to the edge of the battlements.

    Down below, the battle had ceased. A dark Pokémon emerging from the smoke.

    The Zeraora's eyes narrowed, hands clenching the rock of the tower.

    "No." they hissed with a masculine, now clear voice, "I will not allow for them to freely start Armageddon all over again!"

    Blue energy crackling around them, the Zeraora vaulted over the battlement, and jumped into the sky.

    A cold, evil grin formed on the Zarude as it glanced back down towards the ground, watching as one defender, a Machoke, tried to drag himself away from danger. The simian approached, raised its right foot…

    And slammed it down on the defender's neck with a vicious crack. The Machoke's eyes widened, a faint gasp escaping as its body went limp. A flicker of intelligence remaining evident before finally, it's gaze went blank.

    The defenders shuffled back, fear becoming terror as the Zarude's smile grew even more morbid. It started to approach again.

    A blue bolt flashed as it struck the ground with a sharp thundercrack, all Pokémon, attacker and defender alike, flinched backwards as the electrical energy sparked across the battlefield, separating the two sides.

    All except the Zarude, who's smile vanished completely.

    As the electricity faded away, a patch of clouds parted, revealing the untouched splendour of the moon and shining a new light onto the fortress.

    Standing before the Zarude, holding position in front of the defenders was the Zeraora.

    The Zarude seemed to hesitate for the briefest of moments.

    Then it let out a bestial roar, a green vine unravelling from one of its arms into a whip, pulsing with dark green energy as it snapped round. Air rushed around the Pokémon, tugging at the other Pokémon present who once more retreated.

    Unbowed, the Zeraora merely cracked its fists together, blue electricity sparking as its eyes narrowed.

    And with that, it broke out into a run, a snarl forming as it charged for the Zarude.

    The Zarude, whip still flailing in the air, charged forward, whipping it down towards its new opponent.

    The Zeraora leapt forwards, it's fist crackling with energy.

    The whip and fist connected.

    The surrounding Pokémon cried out in shock as the blinding flash of green and blue light, pulling back as the two Pokémon sprung back from the strike, before lunging at each with a vengeance. The Zeraora's fists crackled blue, competing with a pair of glowing green blades that the Zarude attempted to counter with. Around them, Pokémon screamed as they charged back into battle or barked out orders. Some of the defenders began to withdraw, commanders ordering them to retreat through the gateway. The attackers tried to swarm them, but the arrival of the Zeraora had emboldened them, and those that remained on the front line threw themselves into the fray with renewed vigor.

    One fist and blade slammed together with a boom, the Zeraora and the Zarude's faces just inches away from each other.

    The Zarude smirked.

    The Zeraora growled.

    Roaring, the Zarude shoved the feline away, the green blades fading away for another whip.

    Eyes widening, the Zeraora through themselves aside, the whip barely just skimming past their gut. The Zarude attempted to charge, only for two more warriors to spring forward, covering the Zeraora and pushing the powerful simian back. The Zeraora stepped forward, only to feel a wave of heat surge past their back. The spun round, just in time to see a giant fireball slam into another charging grass type, engulfing the attacker in flames, sending them screaming away.

    Spinning round, the Zeraora looked back up to the battlements to find the Cinderace atop them, one foot placed above a Pyro Ball. The electric feline flashed a nod back, as did the Cinderace, who swiftly sprinted further along the battlements. The Zeraora's attention was drawn to the inner gateway, many of the fighters having successfully withdrawn back, many beginning to filter through. Only a handful were now fighting to defend it.

    Leaping twice, the Zeraora pounced back to their defensive line and joining their ranks. Amongst the ranks of the attackers, the Zarude was slowly walking towards the line, a green blade glowing. The two warriors that had lunged for it were stumbling away, re-joining their comrades. Eight, ten, eleven defenders now at the gate including the Zeraora.

    Eleven against an entire army.

    The Zeraora narrowed their eyes, focused on the Zarude. They couldn't hold them off. It was time.

    "Take flight warriors." They ordered, "Join the others. I shall hold them at bay."

    A Staraptor warrior was on the ground next to them. One wing very clearly twisted and broken. "No. We'll stand with you Master."

    The Zeraora looked over their comrades once more. Checking the will of each and every one of them. With a small smile on their face, they turned back to face their invaders. "To death then."

    Blue energy crackling around their fists, bright balls of energy began to form around them. On cue, the ten remaining fighters charged into the ranks of the attackers. The Staraptor leapt for the Zarude, only to scream as a green whip struck it across their neck with a sickening crack and sent it flying into a crowd of attackers.

    The electric orbs grew bigger, charging further. The air crackled around the Zeraora.

    Another warrior tried to block the Simian, for a green blade to slice across their throat. The Zarude's eyes burned, teeth bared as it broken into a sprint, trying to close the gap.

    The Zeraora closed their eyes, a word on their lips.

    The green blade slammed into their chest. The feline cried out, the dark Pokémon lifting them up effortlessly into the air and slamming them into the stone walls of the battlements. The blue energy dimmed.

    "Your interference Zaiell…" the Zarude growled, shoving the blade deeper into the Zeraora's chest. "Ends tonight!"

    Zaiell coughed, blood dripping out his mouth.

    The air buzzed around them, the Zarude's eyes widening as the balls of electricity glowed brighter than ever.

    They couldn't react in time to the Plasma Fist flying against their face. He let out a feral scream, trying to scramble away. Eyes snapping open, Zaiell bared their fangs. "I may die today Kain, but you will not destroy the Guardians!" They booted their feet against the wall and kicked themselves forward, throwing their full weight against Kain and sending them to the floor with a sickening crash. The Zarude kept on screaming, the electricity burning away the fur and skin on their face. Even their eye was milking over, sparks crackling across it.

    Face twisted with pain, the Zeraora lifted their free fist up, crackling with blue electricity. "You may burn our home. But we will live on! And you will fail!"

    With a final roar, Zaiell slammed the Plasma Fist into the ground.

    Bright blue light exploded outwards, consuming the two combatants in light and fire. The defenders, all nearby, couldn't even react before they themselves were consumed. The attackers had more time to react, a few of them who were further away screaming before they were caught out in the blast, others scrambling to run, their backs burning as they dove for cover.

    But even that wouldn't help them. Explosions quaked through the ground, throwing rock into the air. Blue fire burst out of the battlements of the castle, climbing up to the highest towers right down to the ocean.

    The whole ground shook violently, and confusion and shock turned into complete terror. The attackers turned, screaming as they tried to flee, cracks spreading through the ground and across the entire castle. Even those outside on the natural bridges and the mainland could only look on in horror as the towers shuddered free and came crumbling down. Entire rock faces sliding off and dragging battlements down into the ocean with a thunderous crack.

    And then the mainland began to quake, even as the ground tore itself open underneath those inside the castle and sending them plummeting to their deaths. Even the flying types weren't safe, many of their cries being cut short as they were struck by projectiles flung from the disintegrating fortress.

    The natural arches finally snapped, rock tumbling away and bringing those unfortunate enough to be on them down with them to earth. Sheer panic consumed the attackers, each and every one desperate to flee.

    The entire island that the fortress was on began to sink, descending into the waves. From a distance, even the mainland began to crumble. Trees were uprooted, houses collapsed and fires burst into life across the ground.

    It wasn't just the fortress now. The entire island was collapsing into the sea… ready to take everyone with it.

    Sam sprung upright with a jolt, crying out in terror. He panted, hands patting his chest. I-I'm alive! What was-

    Then he noticed them. Just for a split second. Two ghostly shapes floating above him. One was a dark shadow, the other was translucent, with a faint white glow. The latter didn't even look like any Pokémon he would-

    The shadow stilled itself, a bright blue light flashing in its darkness.

    And then they were gone.

    Sam blinked rapidly, rubbing his eyes before looking again. Still nothing.

    A-Am I seeing things? I'm not surprised but… His eyes drifted across the room, focusing on one of the two armbands laid out alongside him. His Team Audacity armband… and the armband of the Guardians.

    "W-What the hell was that… did the Guardians…"

    Sam tucked his legs in, curling up into a ball, willing his heart to slow down.

    He only began to calm down as the Butterfree Jack burst through the door, quickly landing by his side and holding onto his shoulder tightly. "S-Sam! Are you alright!? What happened?!"

    Sam sucked in a deep breath, "I… I don't know…"


    You remerged at the top of the Guildtree, on the very same small balcony that offered a view of the Tree of Life. You wanted to scream. Scream at the shadow.

    The dark shadow hung in open air; a blue eye glowing ever brighter. No no… this is terrible… no! This cannot be!

    It spun round on you, eye burning. I'm afraid Sam catching even a glimpse of us is the least of our concerns. For I have seen this dream before.

    Surprise flooded your being. As did confusion. Anger. Even some happiness. You tried to shove the emotions aside, focusing your attention on the shadow, begging for it to answer.

    This dream… someone else here has been having it. I took the opportunity to investigate their mind… if two people are sharing the same dream… then I believe we may have seen a hint about the horror that is coming. And that one Pokémon who shares that dream. The one that could provide Sam and ourselves any clarity or answers…

    The shadow seemed to stiffen, Is currently unconscious in Robinswood's clinic.


    The clinic was dark, most of the Pokémon resting within asleep on their own beds peacefully.

    Save for one.

    Isolated from the rest, hidden behind a locked door, the Electrike Zeke was spasming on his bed, legs kicking out and head jerking back and forth. His face was twisted in pain.

    The epileptic attack only lasted for a couple of seconds before the electric type's body finally slumped and visibly relaxed. Seemingly back at peace.

    Nothing happened for another couple of seconds.

    But then, just as sharply and suddenly, Zeke's eye snapped open.

    Glowing green…

    EPISODE 1: ALWAYS AUDACITY
    COMPLETE
    TO BE CONTINUED…    ​
    ​

    And with that, the first Episode of Guardians of Balance, Always Audacity, is now officially complete with the longest chapter by far! I will be taking a short break from writing primary chapters for Guardians of Balance whilst I get ready for a new job, but not for too long, as I'm already planning out the second Episode of the fan-fic. And I've already got some very good ideas on how it's going to be shaped. I'm very much looking forward to working on that Episode soon!

    I am also still looking for suggestions on what kind of bonus chapters you may want to see before Episode 2 starts. This could be anything, so please, if you have any ideas, please let me know!

    This has been a year in the making, and I will be coming back to the older chapters to do some edits and make sure they are all neatened up. But Guardians of Balance's story will be continuing.

    I would like to thank everyone who has taken the time to read this and especially providing reviews. I greatly appreciate it, it and has really helped me out from time to time. It means a lot.

    In either case, GoB will continue! I hope you will tag along as this story continues, because believe me… it's only just getting started.
     
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