Daricka "Wildfire" Cambar

Daricka bounced back like a lemur as the poison gas spread. She couldn't escape it completely, though, as it covered them, causing her eyes to burn and skin to tingle.

"Rey! Obviously we did not kill you well enough the first time! It's time to remedy that! Prepare to die you dirty blooded filth!" Daricka looked startled, a rare thing for the Infernape, at the Flareon's shout. Now that she thought of it... the Rey of the rebels was quite similar to the Rey of the Gold Tribe. She couldn't believe she hadn't noticed it before.

In her single distracted moment she was hit by Ignitus' Overheat. Daricka flinched slightly before regaining her composure and bracing herself against the attack, using the time to locate the rest of the Gold Tribe. She spotted Zane and Hoodhide luring Noxious toward the two Golduck that were preparing their Water Bombs. "Now's your chance Speculum! Defender!" Zane shouted. Daricka quickly dove for cover; she wasn't sure how much damage the Water Bombs could do and didn't want to risk being caught in the blast. After she heard the two attacks explode, the Infernape came out from the protection of the rubble, Her focus fixed on Noxious. A faint smirk, unoticeable unless you were looking for it, formed on her face when she saw that both the Water Bombs seemed to have hit the Sentinel.

Her eyes widened a bit as a Sludge Wave bored down on her, spreading out from Noxious. To late to dodge, she was hit full force, being pushed flat on her back. She stared blearily at the sky, her vision going foggy. As she blacked out, she felt warmth start to spread through her body...

((OOC: Just did this cause there was a lot I couldn't really make up for that I had missed... So I figured having her momentarily knocked out was the best choice.))

Sound slowly faded back in as Daricka woke up. She lay there for a moment, puzzled for a moment. Why did she feel so... energized? Then it hit her. The warmth before blacking out... Sure enough, when she sat up and looked at her hand it was covered in flickering black flames, an occasional midnight blue coming through. Her Blaze ability had activated before she had gone unconscious.

Daricka stood up, barely visible in her cloak of flames, giving her the appearance of a dark wraith. She turned her attention to the nearby battle in time to see a Lilligant - whom she guessed must have joined the battle while she was out - use a whirlwind of attacks on the greatly weakened Noxious. Her movement's a blur, Wildfire rushed to the aid of her brethren.

((OOC: Aaaand, stopping cause I need to go to bed and it seems like a good point to stop... to me anyways...))

Eternity City

Noxious took the direct blows from Zane as she screamed in pain. She attempted to cover up herself as the next set of attacks hit now, this time coming from Sword and Shield, who rammed right into the stumbling Noxious with a Wild Charge. As Zane was right next to her, he could hear bones being broken from the impact, and causing Noxious to be propelled backwards. Defender came in soon after, and fired Water Pulse after Water Pulse at he Nidoqueen, who could do nothing but take each attack over and over again. Defender wasn't letting up, and Zane decided not to either, attacking her once more with an Aerial Ace, the precision and strength of the attack as perfect as he could muster. The Lilligant Gold Tribe member joined in right after, preparing something big. She powered herself up with Quiver Dance over and over, and when she finally decided to attack, Zane barely saw her coming.

"ENERGY BALL STORM!" He heard her scream loudly, as both Energy Balls and Leaf Storm rained down upon Noxious. The attacks combined well with Defender's Water Pulses, who kept on coming. This was followed by the appearance of another Gold Tribe member, an Infernape, who also left her mark on Noxious. Zane didn't know her, but with the flux of recent Gold Tribe members popping up out of nowhere, did only welcome her help. Noxious meanwhile, flailed her arms in the direction of the attackers, hoping to attack them with her poison, but to no avail, as every attack launched wide and far, her accuracy no longer serving her. As Noxious turned and launched her attacks in every direction, her body, it seems, gave way, and a final Water Pulse, along with all the other attacks, sent her back, and right into the prepared fist of the Breloom Kivir, who launched a devastating Focus Punch right onto her throat. A sound was heard upon impact, possible bones broken, but it sounded much worse than that. Noxious grabbed at her throat, and collapsed onto the ground. She struggled with her breathing, apparently unable to speak nor breathe. She twisted and turned on the ground, before her eyes focused on Sword and Shield, and she raised her arm, trying to do one final claw at the Snorlax. A few seconds later, she stopped moving, her open eyes looking far off into the distance of the battle, as if observing what has become of the once stable, iron-locked city of Eternity.

Natalie "Noxious" Andole passed on. Zane approached her mangled body, and did her one final service as he knelt next to her and closed her eyes. He did not know her true name, her Gold Tribe title, as he never knew Noxious before in person, before her madness, before Auron. Nevertheless, she was once a sister of his, a fellow Gold Tribe member. He spoke a few words in a whisper to her. "May your spirit find peace in the halls of immortality..." He said, as he took one final look upon her body.

Zane stepped back, before remembering that Hoodhide had been injured earlier rather heftily, and ran up to his body, as he lay on his back. Zane turned him over. Hoodhide grunted in response. He was pretty battered up, but it looked like he would make it.

"Ugh...." He began, coming to from the damage he had been dealt. "...didwe gether?" Hoodhide asked in his rapid voice. Zane smiled, nodding in response.

"We got her, Hoodhide. We got her."

*****************************************************************

General Belas swallowed hard as he approached closer to Frost, who continued to observe the battle below. He wasn't sure if he has enough strength to combat a Sentinel, but he had come too far now to turn back. The Alpha Alliance soldiers cowered behind Belas as he inched closer to Frost by the second.

"Hmm...Noxious is dead as well...this is problematic..." Frost said, crossing her arms. If she knew that Belas and the other approached, she payed them no heed. Finally, Belas spoke.

"Frost of the Sentinels. For your actions against the Alpha Alliance and Valkaria, I bid you stand down and surrender, lest we take drastic measures to stop you." Frost said nothing, not a response nor a look in their direction. It felt like minutes past as she continued to look down upon the battle below. General Belas didn't respond at all, half in nervousness, but half in hopes that she would surrender peacefully. He doubted that would happen. After what seemed like an eternity, Frost turned to the General.

"Ah, Belas." She said in her cold voice. "Did you know that General Catria is being held at the main torturehouse in Silver City? She pleaded for her life as I mangled her body with my machines." Belas appeared to have grown angry now. He had no knowledge of where the third General had been, and knowing Frost had captured her, and was torturing her boiled his blood. He angry leaped in to attack Frost, screaming in anger. "FROST!" He yelled at her. Frost simply laughed, and jumped off the edge of the Citadel tower. Belas ran to the edge to see what became of the Sentinel, only to find her on the back of a Fearow, flying away from the battlefield.

"I'll call a pursuit by our air team." An Alpha Alliance soldiers said. "No!" Belas responded quickly, eying Frost as she flew into the city below, en route outside. "Let her go. I don't want to waste lives chasing what can't be caught."

Below, Frost yelled towards the battle below. "Ancients! Scatter away! It's time we depart the city!" Ancients from all around her heard cry, and began to uniformly exit the city, from any and all paths open. Alpha Alliance soldiers pursued some that tried to escape if they could reach them, but eventually they gave up and let the Ancients depart, too tired to continue the meaningless pursuit of a scattered army not wishing to fight anymore. Eventually, Alpha Alliance Pokemon began to cheer all across the battlefield. The cheering began low, and in certain areas, before more Alpha Alliance troops began joining in the yelling. General Belas stepped out onto the balcony of the Citadel, to the pleasure and happiness of the Alpha Alliance soldiers, who began to scream and shout even more. Belas raised one leg into the air in triumphant victory, and let out a cry of victory, to which the army responded.

Hazone flew to the top of the Citadel, as the soldiers viewed his actions. Sitting on top of the Citadel was the flag of the Silver Tribe, a black flag in the silver lining of a Haxorus' head, facing to the side. Hazone inhaled, and in a shot of fire, burned the flag to a crisp, much to the delight of the the Alpha Alliance soldiers below.

The battle for Eternity City was over. The Alpha Alliance and the Gold Tribe had won.

*****************************************************************

Zane observed the actions of Hazone and Belas at the top of the Citadel. As the Silver Tribe's flag burned, Zane let out a smile. They were one step closer to reclaiming their home, and Zane felt proud that he and his brothers and sisters had helped them do it. A moment later, Zane turned to gather around the victors of the battle with Noxious, the other Gold Tribe members. A moment later, Calamity, TrueStriker, as well as a Zebstrika of the Gold Tribe approached the group. Zane embraced Calamity, who seemed injured, but relatively alright.

"Are you well?" He asked. Calamity grunted. "I'll be alright with some treatment." Zane nodded, and spoke once more. "...Ignitus?" Zane asked, wondering what became of the other Sentinel. Calamity shook his head. "She escaped. We lost track of her in the Ancient's retreat. Zane nodded in understanding, but was still glad his brothers were alright.

Zane looked around the faces of Gold Tribe members around him, old and new. There were many of them, so many than he had anticipated. He couldn't help but let out a laugh. "Well, I suppose introduction are in order, aren't they?" He said with a smile. Calamity grinned as Hoodhide let out a small laugh. "I am Zane Tyrael, known as 'Vigil'." Zane said, as he looked at the others as they too introduced themselves, including the Lilligant, Infernape, and Zebstrika. The others began introducing themselves as well. Zane couldn't help but feel at ease around them. Atlhough he had only met a few of them recently, (although he had heard of some of them from their past exploits) he felt completely at ease around them, as if he had known them for a long time already. Truly, it was like they were all family, and it was a family reunion. Even Kivir, who Zane had to admit held his own with Gold Tribe members, as if he was one himself, was welcomed into their little circle.

Suddenly, Zane heard a voice speak behind him, one which he knew all too well, but also wasn't exactly expecting.

"Well, well. If it isn't Defender, Sword and Shield, Vigil, Dryad, Wildfire, Dark Lightning, Hoodhide, Calamity, Speculum, and TrueStriker. Did I get that all right? Information and news travels fast, you know."

The voice came from the hooded Pokemon known as Rey, but Zane recognized the voice immediately. The Pokemon removed its hood, and stepped forward to them. The Pokemon's eyes were a mirror of Rey's, lightish red all around, with a jab of black in the center, eyes of one who was brave and true, yet sharp and cunning. The Pokemon's emblem was worn the same as Rey's, as a belt with the emblem displayed prominently as a belt buckle, shining brightly. The Pokemon was a Zangoose, just as Rey was.

But it wasn't Rey. It was, however, a longtime friend of Zane's, and someone who all Gold Tribe members knew, but whether by name or face, by rumor or friendship. This was Lyn "Guardia" Reed, daughter of Adam "Rey" Reed.

Penance Malum
​

Penance didn't let up as he and his brothers and sisters attacked without mercy. Their combined attacks caused Noxious to fall back, and landed right into the Breelom's fist that was aimed for her throat. That was the final straw for Noxious as she fell down and died. Penance bent over and panted, he had put his all into his Water Pulses and he was starting to feel the fatigue hit him. Zane knelt down near Noxious and was saying something, but Penance couldn't really hear what he was saying. Zane checked up on Hoodhide and it looked like his brother was harmed, but it looked like he would be able to recover.

"Ancients! Scatter away! It's time we depart the city!" Penance looked up at the source of the voice and saw Frost on a Fearow flying away from the city. "Zane, Frost is getting away!" As Penance saw the Sentinel fly away he heard a loud cheering and looked to see the Sentinel's flag had already been destroyed by General Hazone. Penance allowed himself to smile as he heard the cheering from the reclaimed city. He himself was too tired to cheer.

Pretty soon the Gold Tribe had gathered together. Ignitus had fled, but that didn't matter. Penance didn't know who many of these pokemon were, he hadn't been around long enough to even know of their reputation, but he was glad to meet more of his family. All of them began to introduce themselves. When it was Penance's turn he weakly smiled, "I am Defender. It is wonderful to meet all of you." Apart from the Lilligant none of the others looked younger than 25. Just looking at their eyes Penance could tell that all of them had a wide range of experience in the Gold Tribe. Even Kivir seemed to have the same look in his eyes even though he wasn't part of their family.

"Well, well. If it isn't Defender, Sword and Shield, Vigil, Dryad, Wildfire, Dark Lightning, Hoodhide, Calamity, Speculum, TrueStriker and The Wanderer. Did I get that all right? Information and news travels fast, you know." Penance saw the Zangoose known as Rey. The Zangoose took off his hood... actually her hood. The Zangoose was female! Penance knew for certain that Rey was a male, and she looked just like Rey enough to confuse even Vigil. Penance had heard stories, very detailed stories about Rey having a daughter that looked almost exactly like him. Could it be this was Guardia?

Penance didn't want to say anything out of place so the Golduck kept his mouth shut and waited for someone else to speak. As he waited he felt a slow pain building in his right arm. Penance began to rub his bicep forcing himself not to grimace as the pain slowly began to build.

Olivia Trace
Eternity City

Olivia looked on as her brothers attacked Noxious relentlessly. She felt useless just kneeling on the ground doing nothing, so she worked up another Energy Ball--it was much smaller than her usual one, but that was understandable considering the state her body was in. As soon as it was ready to be fired though, it dissipated into nothing, taking the last remnants of Olivia's energy as it did.

Darn it...It looks like I've got no choice but to leave the rest to you guys.

Many Water Pulses and Wild Charges later, the Breloom who saved her earlier launched a Focus Punch to Noxious's throat, and it proved to be the killing blow. The Queen of Poison fell over, her eyes stiff as glass. The golden Bisharp knelt next to her and closed her eyes, remaining silent for a while as Zane whispered a few words in the memory of the Nidoqueen who was once their sister, their fellow Gold Tribe member. Olivia stared at the touching scene quietly, tears welling up in her eyes.

Zane stepped back and found Hoodhide, who had been injured by Noxious earlier. Olivia worried for his health, but was reassured that he would be alright as Zane gave him a smile and said something--it was inaudible from where Olivia was standing--but it was most likely something comforting.

"Ancients! Scatter away! It's time we depart the city!" Olivia's eyes scanned the area for the source of the voice, and they found Frostbite riding away on a Fearow, a horde of Ancients following her.

"Zane, Frost is getting away!" the Golduck hollered, but his voice was soon drowned out by cheering as the Alpha Alliance army burned the Sentinel flag resting on top of the Citadel. The Gold Tribe contributed little to the cheering, if any at all--the battle with Noxious had tired them out, and most hadn't enough energy to speak, let alone cheer. Olivia gave a weak smile at the burnt flag's direction as tears welled up in her eyes yet again. The reclaiming of Eternity City proved to be an emotional roller coaster for her.

A while later, the Bisharp called Zane rounded up the Gold Tribe members. She was in an entirely different social circle than any of the people gathered here; she knew none of them. Luckily, though, Zane soon said, after a hearty laugh, "Well, I suppose introduction are in order, aren't they?" He then introduced himself as Zane Tyrael, otherwise known as Vigil. The Golduck and Gallade soon followed, and Olivia learned that they were called Defender and TrueStriker, respectively.

"Hi," Olivia said unprofessionally. "I'm Olivia Trace, but you may know me as Dryad. If any of you knew Catherine Trace the Nymph, I'm her sister." She looked around as everyone introduced themselves.

Suddenly, an elegant yet strong voice rang out in their midst. It came from a hooded, humanoid Pokemon, who removed the hood covering his head to reveal his identity as a Zangoose. "Well, well. If it isn't Defender, Sword and Shield, Vigil, Dryad, Wildfire, Dark Lightning, Hoodhide, Calamity, Speculum, TrueStriker and The Wanderer. Did I get that all right? Information and news travels fast, you know." If Rey was still alive, she would have assumed the person standing in front of her to be him. What other Zangoose in the Gold Tribe would be able to cite her title from memory alone, when she had never met him her whole life?

Then it struck her. The Zangoose standing in their midst is not Adam "Rey" Reed--she wasn't even male! Olivia had only heard about her from hearsay, but her mannerism, her way of speaking and her knowledge all pointed to one person other than the legendary leader of the Gold Tribe; she is Lyn "Guardia" Reed, daughter of Adam "Rey" Reed.

Kivir listened to Zane give Noxious her final rights and was silent out of respect. 'Very noble to still honor the traitors despite all they have done,' thought Kivir as Zane finished. He then walked over to Olivia and retrieved his bag while all the Gold Tribe members gathered. He quickly pulled out the remaining antidotes and handed them out to the still poisoned members. Just then a Zangoose walked up and greeted the group. Kivir bowed a little to the Gold Tribe members as a farewell before saying, "It was an honor to fight alongside you, but I best be going. There are still soldiers fighting to live, and I cannot stand around and talk when I can help. Also I'm sure I have new duties to go along with my new title of Chief that I also must attend to as well."

Kivir thought about telling them he was a gold tribe member but he decided now was not the time. As soon as he was out of sight of the Gold Tribe members he reached up in his cap to retrieve the medallion hidden up there to look at it for a moment, but he quickly discovered it was gone. A feeling of loss and despair rolled over his mind at this discovery. It was a gift from his master… a parting token of respect and honor on his student, and Kivir had lost it. Kivir thought about searching for it instead of going to help others, but quickly decided it leave it be. It was more important to follow his master's teachings and help others than to find some trinket. It still disheartened Kivir a little to know he lost it, but perhaps it was lost for a reason.

Several medics showed up to help the Gold Tribe members a few minutes after the end of the battle. Clearly their location and the story of their hard battle had travelled quickly. While a Gardevoir and Blissey tended to the wounded Gold Tribe members a Chansey seemed distracted by something on her mind. Walking up to Zane, the Chansey said, "You're the Gold Tribe leader correct?" She then pulled a gold medallion out of her pouch and handed it to him. She then continued, "The new Breloom Chief… Kivir I think was his name was hiding this in his cap. I found it while treating many of his wounds and decided that I should show it to you. He doesn't seem to be a Gold Tribe member but this looks like one of your medallions. I wasn't sure what to think of it so I decided to bring it to you." It was an old Gold Tribe medallion… it wasn't as fancy as the ones the Gold Tribe members wore now and was like some the members had seen on the elder Tribe members wearing before the betrayal. The back had the title of "Divine Blade" etched into it

For many of the new members who didn't know much of their history the title meant nothing, but to one who knew much of the history of the Gold Tribe and had knowledge on many of their previous members the name had significance. Delnir "Divine Wind" Blake was an old Gallade that had once been a member of the Gold Tribe. He was known for his very hard line ideals about the Gold Tribe that had caused him to leave the Tribe in disgust. Delnir had strongly opposed how the Gold Tribe was recruiting/training and how the Gold Tribe displayed themselves to others. Divine Wind claimed that the Gold Tribe had gotten relaxed in their devotion to the ideals of the Gold Tribe, and that they often focused too much on one's fighting abilities and strength instead of one's character. He had fought to have many of the new recruits barred from entering the Gold Tribe. However after being bested by one of the recruits in combat rumors spread his opposing to many of the new recruits was because he was jealous of their superior skills.

After hearing of these rumors Delnir made his final argument to his fellow senior members. He argued that many recruits were getting "passes" on their character because they were such skilled fighters, and that they were not being taught proper humiliation and honor. He continued on to say that things needed to be changed where the Gold Tribe was only something the few select devotees would want to ever join. They should focus on service to others above all else, and cast many of the "glory gaining" traditions aside. He wanted to implement many ideals, strict laws, and requirements on members "To insure the integrity of the Gold Tribe was maintained, and that the glory of being a Gold Tribe member was replaced with respect." He claimed most children shouldn't want to grow up to be Gold Tribe due to a requirement of a life of sacrifice and humility. Only the most devoted and pure of heart would want to ever join, and even then they would be required to take many hard trials that tested their character before their true training could begin. He further argued that members should focus more on being well versed and educated than just fighting and comradeship.

The others refused Delnir's ideals responding the Gold Tribe was a group of warrior servants, and not some sort of monk organization. They continued on saying that the Gold Tribe had not lost its way and was the same as it always had been, and they would not change their traditions to fit one member's extreme ideals. Delnir then left the Gold Tribe claiming that time would prove him right and that the Gold Tribe would suffer in the future for being lax on their ideals. After leaving he disappeared completely from the Gold Tribe's records, and there was no more further contact between him and the Tribe.

Eternity City

As the others introduced themselves, Zane got a good idea about them. He had actually heard a few of them by their reputation alone beforehand. Dark Lightning was a fairly well-known veteran, and Dryad was known by Zane as well, recalling past exploited of the fabled tag team duo of Nymph and Dryad. Wildfire was also an established veteran of the tribe. Then came in his friend.

Lyn Reed. Guardia she was called by her Gold Tribe title. Many stories were told about her amongst the tribe, back before the Silver Tribe conflict. Many acknowledged she was a strong fighter, among the best young fighters in Gold Tribe. Even the veterans had trouble keeping up with her. To top that, she was a brilliant tactician in terms of single combat. Many believed she would be a worthy leader one day to surpass Rey just by her mere strength. However, as Zane knew, this was not the whole case. Zane grew up with Lyn, and knew her more personality. She was rash and impatient. It wouldn't be too much of a stretch to say arrogant and careless too. In the months preceding the Silver Tribe conflict, he heard that Rey was considering naming his heir as Auron instead of Lyn. This obviously did not sit well with Lyn, and as far as he knew, her relationship with her father leading up to the days of the invasion was strained.

But that was a long time ago now, and before Zane stood an old friend. "Lyn...Guardia! I can't believe it's you! How did you escape the Silver Tribe!? Where have you been all this time?" He exclaimed. Lyn grinned back at Zane, her demeanor one of overconfidence and pride in oneself. "It's good to see you too, Vigil." She stated merely. "All of you." She said, looking around at all of them. "When I found out so many made it, and you rescued General Hazone, I knew I had to find a way to get a hold of you. I figured I'd stir up some action in town, and you'd find me. People get drawn to my father's name, so I hid under his title. It turned out pretty good. Got a bunch of people scared that's for sure!" She ended with a laugh, and Zane smiled as well. Zane had to ask her this next question.

"Then…Rey…is he really…?" Zane began, but he didn't have to finish. Lyn lowered her head for a moment, and a few seconds later, reached down for the golden insignia on her belt, handing it over to Zane. Zane examined it for a moment. It was Rey's insignia. The Gold Tribe leader truly was gone. Zane was dismayed, but also slightly glad he had finally received confirmation. A moment later, the Breloom Kivir departed to attend to the other soldiers. Zane was about to stop him and thank him for his help, but decided he'd have time later. A moment after that, however, a Chansey approached Zane as well. "You're the Gold Tribe leader correct?" She asked. Zane gave a quick stare to Lyn, before nervously replying. "Err…yes I suppose I am.

As she pulled out something from her pouch, Zane gave another quick glance to Lyn. He knew she would sit well with Zane acting as the interim leader, but he was certain if he explain the severity of the situations they were in, there was no time to sit down and debate who would be in charge. There were more important things to discuss. Lyn had a noticeable sour look on her face. The Chansey gave Zane what was handed out of her pouch. Zane took it and examined it for a moment as the Chansey continued to speak. "The new Breloom Chief… Kivir I think was his name was hiding this in his cap. I found it while treating many of his wounds and decided that I should show it to you. He doesn't seem to be a Gold Tribe member but this looks like one of your medallions. I wasn't sure what to think of it so I decided to bring it to you."

It was indeed a Gold Tribe medallion, albeit a very old one. Zane knew enough about these insignias to know it once belonged to a prominent member. Zane flipped it over, and read the name etched onto it. "Divine Blade". The name taunted his memory so. While studying in the ways of the Gold Tribe, Zane recalled a Gold Tribe senior member with the name. He remembered, as a young potential member how Divine Blade presented a very different side of the Gold Tribe. It was something very similar to what Zane's grandfather once told him before Zane wanted to join, although probably more extreme. Zane really didn't understand in the beginning what the Pokemon was really trying to say, but as he grew older, and wiser, he began to understand. Rey tried to implement a balance between a warrior and a cultured Pokemon, in times of high demand, however, it was hard. Zane needed a question answered though: How did the Breloom Kivir end up with the amulet?

Zane was deep in thought for a moment before he decided to seek out Kivir. "Excuse me, brothers, sisters. I need to go see to something. I'll be back with you a bit later."

Zane departed, leaving the Gold Tribe members to talk amongst themselves. TrueStriker thanked Dark Lightning, to which the veteran Gold Tribe member responded back. "It was my pleasure, brother. Do not hesitate to seek help from me if ever you need it." Dark Lightning pondered something for a moment, as if to retrieve a thought from his memory, before turning to Dryad. "You know, I do recall tales of your exploits with your sister beforehand." Calamity chimed up at this point to. "Yea, I heard of you. Tag team duo, right?" Calamity turned to Wildfire, about to share a thought or two with her, but Guardia stepped forward now, interrupting.

"Ahem." She said. Giving them a smile. But under that smile, it could be seen that she was a bit irritated that Zane had been leader the group. "So I seen Vigil has been your interim leader while I was away? I guess since I'm here, we can start doing things properly again. I am the daughter of Rey, after all, so I should take over. It's only fitting. We should scout around at what's being done to secure the city. Come on, I'll lead the way."

Lyn began to walk, but the others didn't immediately follow. Dark Lightning treaded in place, silently eying the young Zangoose. Calamity had a calm, emotionless demeanor as he judged the best course of action. Hoodhide looked left and right in quick motions at the others, wondering what should be done. Lyn turned around to them and cocked an eyebrow at them. "What are you waiting for?" She asked, getting a bit irritated. Dark Lightning chose this moment to intervene.

"If I may, Guardia. I feel as if everyone here should make a collective decision on who is best fitting to lead the Gold Tribe, not who should lead by blood. As far as I see, at the point where we are with so few of us around, this should be the obvious course of action."

************************************************************************

General Belas walked through the Citadel, giving orders as he passed. Hazone, who had arrived inside the Citadel earlier, was walking beside him. The battle was won, but there was still much to be done. Wounded soldiers lay right and left, requiring medical attention, or a proper burial. The borders around the city needed to have a watch set up in case the Ancients in the area were to rally for a counter-attack, although Belas seriously doubted they would attempt something like that so soon. Still, it was best to be prepared. He also sent a patrol of Alpha Alliance soldiers to secure the scientist Demas's house, with explicit instruction not to enter the house.

"When everyone is taken care of, or being taken care of medically, we should have the armies rest for a few days. Arceus knows they've earned it." General Hazone said to Belas. The Metagross agreed. This was a great victory in what he hoped would be a string of many more to come. All they had to do was take it a day at a time, and today, it was time to rest.

********************************************************

Zane caught up to Kivir's location, seeing him attending to his new duties he acquired as Chief of the Alpha Alliance, a rather influential position in the army. Zane ran up to him, his medallion in his hand. He extended the medallion towards Kivir, a slight smile over his face.

"I believe this belongs to you…" He said for a moment, as he handed the Gold Tribe medallion back into the hands. Zane was silent for a moment as he thought what it was he was going to say to him. He decided the best choice would probably be to ask outright. "So…how exactly did you acquire that amulet? As I recall, it belonged to a Gold Tribe member."

(OOC We're at a point in the RP where we'll be focusing quite a lot on character interaction, getting know each other a lot better, as many of us don't know each other quite well. Feel free to talk amongst yourselves and get to know each other, and make plots, if you like, via VMs and PMS)

Gladius Clipeum​

They have done it again. In a matter of hours, [it seemed hours to Gladius' perspective, though he is quite unsure of how time flew during battle], they have killed two Sentinels. Berserker and Noxious were both gone from this world.

"God bless their traitorous soul," Gladius murmured under his breath as Vigil did the final rites. Gladius could never forgive them for turning back against the Gold Tribe but, as his brothers, he did. Two Sentinels down and, if the count of eight Sentinels are correct, there are six more Sentinels to go down with. Six more brothers to kill. Oh Arceus, why in the world did they think of abandoning the tribe? Gladius tried to think of the other six. There is certainly Frost, the one responsible for the attack on Liberty Town. Sentry, the Scizor they met en route to the Alpha Alliance hiding place. Inferno, the Typhlosion whom Gladius had never seen but heard of. That makes three of them. Gladius was sure he saw a Mienshao at the ambush for the torturehouse, but he was not quite sure if he is a Sentinel. Maybe just a small fry. Three known Sentinel. Three more Gladius had not seen. Who are they and what could their powers be? How strong could this Silver Tribe get?

When the remaining Gold Tribe members had grouped up, Rey spoke.

"Well, well. If it isn't Defender, Sword and Shield, Vigil, Dryad, Wildfire, Dark Lightning, Hoodhide, Calamity, Speculum, and TrueStriker. Did I get that all right? Information and news travels fast, you know." That does not sound like Rey. The Pokemon pulled her hood. It was a Zangoose, alright, but not Rey. There is something in this Pokemon that screams 'Hey, I'm not Rey.' Something feminine. Then it hit her. "Guardia," Gladius murmured.

"This is unexpected," Gladius said, though he is sure no one heard him. Guardia had been literally gone since the invasion. They have heard no word of her and to be honest, Gladius himself have forgotten about her. During the pre-Silver Tribe era, he had been supporting Auron as the next Gold Tribe leader, and not Guardia. She is young, yes, but with youth comes impatience. Rashness. Arrogance. Guardia may have the blood of a leader flowing through her, but the attitude is not there. Maybe give her some more years, and she'll probably be good. After the invasion, after Auron defected, Gladius could see no possible candidate for the heir, as if there was time to think such things. Maybe now, after leading the rebels, she learned a thing or two.

Vigil and Guardia talk for a moment, recapping things out. It looked like Guardia used Rey as a means to rally people. Not bad, but not good either. It seemed like she still takes a lot of pride in her blood. Vigil went away, excusing himself for a moment. Gladius decided to rest for a minute, since the war exhausted him. Yes, it did.

The other Gold Tribe members were talking among each other. Gladius would want to talk to the new ones, members he have never heard before, like Dark Lightning and Wildfire. Dryad is pretty famous in the Gold Tribe, especially because she forms a great team with her sister, Nymph. Might worth asking later to where her sister is. Guardia came near the resting Gold Tribe members.

"So I seen Vigil has been your interim leader while I was away? I guess since I'm here, we can start doing things properly again. I am the daughter of Rey, after all, so I should take over. It's only fitting. We should scout around at what's being done to secure the city. Come on, I'll lead the way," said Guardia. She looked around. Most of the faces she saw were... hesitation. Gladius himself is one. Being the daughter of a leader does not necessarily grant you the title. Again, the rashness of youth."What are you waiting for?" It was Dark Lightning who answered her.

"If I may, Guardia. I feel as if everyone here should make a collective decision on who is best fitting to lead the Gold Tribe, not who should lead by blood. As far as I see, at the point where we are with so few of us around, this should be the obvious course of action." Gladius felt the need to second the motion.

"I have to agree. Being the daughter of Rey makes you an obvious candidate for the position of being a leader. But, I am sure the others have another thoughts on this. We have not seen quite a lot of you after the invasion, so there is really no perfect way to tell if you had develop your... let's say, attitude," Gladius said. He stood up from where he was sitting. "Yes, your actions are heroic indeed and is a great factor in our victory here, but that is all we have seen of you." Gladius stopped pacing. "To be honest, no offense meant, if we would have a snap election right now, I think Vigil is the more suitable. But I suggest we don't. I know you are good in battle, and had inherited Rey's will. You just have some setbacks. So, do not force us to choose. Right now, can we just please all relax? My bones are screaming in pain." Gladius sat down again. So much for resting.

Penance Malum​

Penance was conflicted in what should have been a joyous occasion. He was happy that so many of his brothers and sisters had survived and yet at the same time they were all very experience, more so than himself. All of them just seemed to know each other, or at least heard of each other's reputation. Penance doubted most of them even knew who he was and most of the names of the newcomers didn't ring a bell in to Penance. Still, these pokemon were his family. He didn't know them now, but he would be fighting alongside them in the upcoming battles. He would have to get to know them at least sometime along their journey.

Penance put on a smile and looked around at his brothers and sisters. All of them seemed to be milling about in conversation and Penance was about to join in as well when Guardia interrupted. "So I seen Vigil has been your interim leader while I was away? I guess since I'm here, we can start doing things properly again. I am the daughter of Rey, after all, so I should take over. It's only fitting. We should scout around at what's being done to secure the city. Come on, I'll lead the way." Penance had been about to follow after the Zangoose when he noticed the others staying right where they were. Penance put his foot down and looked between the two sides, confused. Surely following the daughter of Rey was a good choice. Right?

"What are you waiting for?" Penance flinched at her words. She sounded different just then. It was easy to tell just from her look that she seemed to be angry with them. It was then that the Zebstrika that was called Dark Lightning spoke, "If I may, Guardia. I feel as if everyone here should make a collective decision on who is best fitting to lead the Gold Tribe, not who should lead by blood. As far as I see, at the point where we are with so few of us around, this should be the obvious course of action."

Penance looked back and forth between the two. Penance did know that the leader of the Gold Tribe was elected, and since they were the only Gold Tribe members left it did make sense. But who would make a good leader. Penance's first thought was Vigil. He did lead them all here and did lead the battles they fought in. Gladius got in his two cents and Penance wanted to agree with his friend, they all needed rest first. It was then Penance heard a cry and looked over at the sound and saw a brown blur heading straight for him. Demas barely stopped right in time to avoid colliding with Penance. "Penance, my boy! I've been looking for you! Come on, I need your help!"

Penance looked back at his brothers and sisters, "Uh, Demas, I'm in the mid-"

"Great to hear!" Without any warning the Raichu grabbed Penance by the hand and began dragging him at a breath neck pace. Penance tried to resist, but there was no arguing with the scientist. He turned back to the others as he was dragged off, "I'll see you later guys!" He was dragged out of sight before he could say anything else. It was a few seconds later, due to Demas' speed, when the two arrived in front of his house. "Ah, home sweet home! And look, we have an honor guard!"

A patrol of Alpha Alliance stood near the house. Demas walked up to his door and grabbed the doorknob, "Everyone stand back! This puppy will kill if you're not careful." The soldiers took his advice and Penance knew from experience to step back. Demas took in a deep breath and pulled open the door, squeezing his eyes as well. Nothing happened. Demas blinked and frowned, "Huh, guess it was a dud-" A column of fire suddenly shot out of the door. The fire continued to be shot out for a good minute. Once the show as over Demas looked over and cheered, "Oh yeah! That's what I'm talking about! Come on Penance, you'll going to do some heavy lifting!"

Penace walked past the blackened hallway into what looked like an ordinary room that was cluttered with furniture and books. Demas walked over to a chair and pushed it away and pulled open a hidden door. Penance followed after Demas down the hole to his laboratory. Demas didn't waste anytime in pushing the door open and looking over all of his inventions that were scattered around the room. "Doesn't seem that they were in here. Good! This project is too powerful to fall into their hands!" Demas walked over to a cloth covered object, "This is my prize possession. Levitate it please and I can show it off to your Gold Tribe friends."

Penance frowned, "This thing will help us win the war?"

"Oh yes. I'll save the explanation once I get it in front of everyone. Just levitate it up the stairs and we'll be good! No taking off the cloth either. I want it to be a surprise."

Penance grabbed the invention with his mind and levitated it up the stairs. The soldiers seemed to be interested in what was underneath the cloth as well but Demas shooed them away, "If you want to know then come to the meeting. Sheesh! Now, let's head over there before Ma-... before it gets too dark."

Penance frowned but followed after the Raichu none the less.

Kivir was overseeing the care of some of the wounded. While the Generals handled the big picture Kivir along with some other chiefs were handling the finer details of some of the tasks. He was glad to run into some of the other survivors of the 2nd attack team that had destroyed the wall. The Breloom was talking to a Kirlia, who had several bandages on her, instructing her on how to apply some sort of paste like medicine when Zane walked up to him.

Seeing the medallion Kivir looked at Zane's expression with a calm demeanor as he took the medal with a slight bow of his head. Kivir wanted to ask how the Gold Tribe member had found it and how he knew it was Kivir's, but he could tell Zane had a question for him so he remained silent until the Gold Tribe member asked Kivir how he acquired the medal.

Kivir sighed as he looked at the medal and said, "Yes it belonged to my master, Delnir Blake of the Gold Tribe… He took me in when I was young and trained me into who I am today. When it was my time to find my own destiny he gave it to me saying I was now a member of the Gold Tribe. This is why I sought you all out, but when I did find you I realized that my master was wrong. I lack the "brotherhood" that you all hold among each other. I also feel many of my ideals and perspectives on what it is to be Gold Tribe are not aligned with what the actual ideals of the Gold Tribe."

The Kirlia standing next to the Breloom just stared at the Breloom and then Vigil and then the Breloom again with big eyes as he spoke. She clearly didn't know what to think about all this. She then turned to Vigil and waited to see what his reply was. She was gripping the bowl of medicine very tightly as she waited in suspense.

Eternity City

Zane listened carefully as the Breloom explained himself. Just as he thought, the medallion belong to Delnir Blake, "Divine Blade". It was an odd turn of events that the Blake would accept a student, let alone train him, and even more coincidental that Kivir would be with the other Gold Tribe members in the torturehouse. The conversation took an even more serious tone, however, as Kivir explained himself. Zane silently listened until it was the Bisharp's turn to speak. However, when that time came around, Zane didn't know how to immediately respond.

Zane turned to the Citadel and saw as a group of Flying Pokemon position the flag of the Alpha Alliance on the top of where the flag of the Silver Tribe used to be. He also noticed around as citizens of Eternity city, who hid in their houses during the conflict of the city, began to emerge. The streets were beginning to populate with citizens, who cheered and yelled. Eternity City was beginning to come alive again. He turned back to Kivir and spoke.

"My grandfather was a member of the Gold Tribe. When I was a child, I told him I wanted to join the Gold Tribe and be just as strong as him, and go out on adventures. I remember him scold me so for this, and it was then I learned what it truly meant to be a member of the Gold Tribe. So perhaps your master did have a point. Perhaps in recent years, we haven't been holding true to what the Gold Tribe should be about. Perhaps Rey saw it to, and that was why he sought to change things. Perhaps Auron's betrayal justifies your master's arguments. I don't know..." He stopped for a moment to formulate his words. "But also...perhaps together, we can find a balance among the two, make the Gold Tribe that which it's suppose to be. There are so few of us now, it is impossible to deny what we are, who we are. The Alpha Alliance needs us more than ever."

Zane walked over and put a hand on the Breloom's shoulder. "And yes, perhaps you don't share the brotherhood we have for each other, but that is to be expected. Blind belief of brotherhood is not what we share. We share this deep connection because deep down, passed all ideals and personal beliefs, we fight, and die, for the same reason..." Zane pointed to the citizens who slowly flooded the streets, and then to the flag that flew proudly over the city below, and then to Gold Tribe emblem on his arm. To Zane, they may represent different factions and different things, but to Zane they represent all one single thing, the one thing they all fought for. "...freedom."

"So perhaps you don't feel this brotherhood we feel. Perhaps you never will." Zane gave the Breloom a smile. "Or perhaps, perhaps as we fight side by side for the same reasons, perhaps you might."

*****************************************************************

To say Lyn was stunned by the responses of the others of the Gold Tribe would be an understatement. She looked at them in a mixture of anger and disbelief. She was young at 18 years of age, but she knew she was among the strong of the tribe, even among veterans. She was Rey's daughter, she should be the leader. But before she could respond, Gladius finished his thought, and Lyn backed down.

"Alright, we can talk about this later, I guess. We should find something to eat!" Lyn said, forcing a smile onto her face. "Come on, maybe now that the battle is over, the shops will open as well. Heck, I bet Gold Tribe eat for free!" Dark Lightning shook his head, but then heard his stomach growl. "Well, I am quite hungry..." The Zebstrika said, as he began to follow Guardia.

Hoodhide looked over at them as Chansey began taking them away to the healing house. "Uh...I'll-catch-you-guys latr. I don't think I'm-ready to-walk." Hoodhide squeaked. Calamity nodded at Hoodhide. "I'm a bit beat myself. I'll join you, Hoodhide." Calamity took a look at TrueStriker, seeing he may be in a bit of pain as well. "You can come with us as well, brother, unless you are hungry."

Lyn looked back at the others, a face of disappointed understanding was put on. "Oh, alright right." She said. Dark Lightning and I will look for a nice place to eat while you guys lick your wounds. We'll find you if we see something good!" At that, Lyn sped off passed the soldiers. Dark Lightning had to pick up speed to catch up to her.

Calamity shot a glance at Sword and Shield, Wildfire and Dryad. "She's quite...energetic, isn't she?" He said with a smile.

Kivir looked at Zane and said in a plain voice, "You are wrong… your brotherhood is formed because of your common ideals, trials, traditions, and experiences that define what it is to be a Gold Tribe member. If it was the common goal to fight for freedom then you would be able to look down at Lannia here and call her your sister in the same matter you call the other Tribe members brothers or sisters." The Breloom motioned toward the nervous Kirlia standing next to him at this point. He then continued, "Both the Gold Tribe members and the Alpha Alliance soldiers fight for freedom so by your reasoning your all brothers and sisters, but you're not. The difference is the ideals, trials, traditions, and experiences that all Gold Tribe members hold onto that defines your brotherhood."

Kivir then stepped back so Zane wasn't touching his shoulder anymore and he said, "The reason I do not share this feeling because I do not share the experiences, and I believe in different ideals than you all. I believed the Gold Tribe was about giving up everything, including some of one's own freedom, to be a servant and defender of the people, but this is not the case from what I have seen. It seems to me that the Gold Tribe holds itself to be more of an example for others to look up to instead of being a servant to all. I prefer the path of a servant. I do not desire feasts held in my honor, I want to be able to help the starving and poor be able to feast. I do not want to be one that brings awe to others and is held up to a higher standard when I walk by, instead I want to be the one that peasants turn to when they need help. I do not want to be the one standing up drinking to my victory in battle, but the one who is there for to give the last comforting word to a dying soldier. Rags are more fitting to me than gold."

He then handed Zane the Gold Tribe emblem that Delnir had given him while saying, "This belongs to your Tribe, not to me. I will proudly fight beside you in the battles to come, but I do not think I will ever fight with you as a brother."

Penance Malum​

Demas sped through the crowds that were starting to form on the street and there was more than once he had to push his way through the crowds. What really drew the crowds was Penance himself. Everyone saw the gold band wrapped around his bicep and everyone was pretty much cheering for the Gold Tribe. Luckily they made their way out of the crowds and into the areas that were filled with civilians yet. Demas saw that Calamity, Sword and Shield, Wildfire and Dryad were still where they were last and quickly sped over.

"Oh, honorable Gold Tribe! I am glad that I found you! Right before your eyes you are about to see the prize of the Alpha Alliance! A machine so rare that it could very well change the way the war is fought! A machine that will cause utmost fear just by it's name alone!"

Penance grunted as he put the machine down near Demas. He rubbed his arm again. He didn't know why, but it was really starting to get sore.

Demas grabbed the cloth covering the contraption and pulled it off as majestically as he could. The outline itself showed that the invention was large and it truly was. The machine looked almost like a small metal box. It Penance had to guess it looked to be about a Blaziken's height. The whole box was painted silver and on the left side there seemed to be rows of buttons with a handle as well.

"This is my prized possession, the move learner! Picture this, the ability to learn any move known to pokemon! Thunder, water, fire! Anything you can imagine helping you in your fight against evil! All in my baby!" Demas hugged the machine and stroked his paw against the metal, "Three years of building a blueprint, two years of ordering parts and repeatedly improving the model, and one year consisting entirely of recording every single move I could find. All you for my love." Demas nuzzled the machine, and then looked up at the Gold Tribe in embarrassment. He quickly pulled away from the machine, "Uh, anyway you must want to see a test drive!"

Even if they would say no Demas still grabbed one of the soldiers that had gathered around, opened the door, and pushed him inside. The Buizel looked scared, "This isn't going to hurt, is it?"

Demas chuckled, "Of course not!"

"Wait!" A blue Golduck ran about half way to them before stopping to gasp for breath. "There's a *gasp* ten percent *gasp* chance of death!"

The Buizel's eyes bulged, "Wha-"

Demas slammed the door shut and in less than a second had pushed one of the button and pulled the handle down, "Too late now!"

The machine buzzed and shook and a few seconds later emitted a loud beep. Demas swung the door open and smoke poured out. The Buizel groaned as he stepped out looking disheveled. Demas grabbed him by the shoulders, "So you feel different huh? Fire that Ice Beam and show them all!"

The Buizel groaned and sat down, not looking too good. Demas ran back to the machine and frowned, "I thought I got it all working out. She may need a part or two..."

The Golduck walked over, "Demas, no more! You could have killed him!"

"Pisha Matthius. He's fine, just a little shaken, but still fine. All I need to do is work out-"

The Buizel suddenly gave a loud sneeze and a beam of ice exited his mouth, shooting out and covering parts of the ground in ice.

Demas' eyes glistened, "It works! I knew it! She's in business." He eagerly kissed the machine and turned to the Gold Tribe members, "So who's next!? Sure there's a small chance of something going wrong, but that's the fun of it! You don't know if it will!"

"Ten perc-"

"Ten percent, shen merchent. These are Gold Tribe members Matthius, nothing's going to kill them so easily! So who want some firepower!?"

Penance sighed, he knew Demas could get egotistical and with this invention working his ego would definitely get a boost. "Well, maybe you should work out those kinks first Demas." Penance said, "I'm not sure about the others, but I don't think that's a chance we can take."

Eternity City

Zane's smile quickly vanished as Kivir stepped back and removed Zane's hand from his shoulder. A look of confusion swept over the Bisharp's face, who said nothing as he explained himself. Zane didn't understand it. He wanted to tell the Breloom he was wrong, that it wasn't how he saw things, but something compelled him not to. He remembered growing up studying in the Gold Tribe an instructor once told him people will often have different views that him. The trick wasn't to try to dissuade the other that their view was wrong, but to merely accept that it was the natural way of things for multiple ideals to float around, and thereby accept that which is spoken, even if you don't agree.

Zane took the medallion from Kivir as it was handed back to him.

"This belongs to your Tribe, not to me. I will proudly fight beside you in the battles to come, but I do not think I will ever fight with you as a brother." Zane nodded back to him in understanding. He didn't completely agree with everything the Breloom said, but the Pokemon fought alongside him nonetheless. All ideals aside, they fought for the same reason, and Zane respect that at least.

"I will hold this for you in case you ever want it back." Zane said, tucking the medallion away into his bag. A moment later, Speculum approached Zane and Kivir. He gave a thank you to Kivir before addressing Zane, asking him what had happened to Noxious. Zane smiled slightly as he spoke back.

"Good to see you're alright. Looks like you missed in on everything. We managed to defeat Noxious, not to mention take the city. Eternity City belongs to the Alpha Alliance once more. Come on, we should rejoin the others." He said to Speculum. Zane took one more look at Kivir, then the Kirlia next to him, and gave them a polite nod. "See you around, then." He said, before heading back to the direction of the others.

**************************************************************

Calamity was about to speak to the others when Defender came back with the scientist Demas from before in the Poseida Caverns. They had with them a large ornament below a cloth. Placing it down, and removing the cloth, Demas revealed his latest invention, the 'move relearner', he called it. Clearly, Demas was quite passionate about it as he stroked it lovingly and embraced it. Calamity cocked an eyebrow in response, but held off on questions until he found out exactly what it did, and how it operated. Grabbing a Buizel as a demonstration, the Pokemon was urged inside. He asked the same question Calamity was thinking. A concerned look was on the face of the Pokemon, but Calamity was a bit nervous as well. If he was in the position, he knows he would be.

The concern was even greater increased when a Golduck ran up to them as told them of a 10 percent chance of death. Calamity was about to leap after the machine, but it was closed before he got a chance, forcing him to watch what was about to transpire. The Buizel came out, and although it seemed to be able to use ice now, Calamity still didn't approve of the machine, at least, not yet.

"Well, maybe you should work out those kinks first Demas." Penance said, "I'm not sure about the others, but I don't think that's a chance we can take."

Calamity agreed, speaking up. "I agree. Make sure the thing won't cause us to die, and then maybe we'll give it a try. Still...it's a pretty impressive device." Calamity eyed the machine interestedly. He had wanted to have a certain move to combat foes not of his type. Also, because of the armies of Ancients they would be facing, getting a water or ice type move would be beneficial. Calamity wondered what the others thought, but at the same time, wondered if he should step up. If it could ultimately help them out...perhaps...

"Wait!" Calamity said. He eyed Demas, and then the machine. "Any move, you say? How about a Psychic one?"

*****************************************************************

Near Gravel City

Frost landed off of the Pokemon that carried her out of Eternity City. Behind her following close by were remnants of the Ancient army that retreated from the battle. She knew in her mind that there was no way Auron would be pleased. First in the fact that two Sentinels lay dead, and second was that Eternity City was fallen to the enemy. She had sent word to him beforehand that it could have been a possibility of defeat here, so she waited here for a scout who was supposed to meet her here with news on what to do next. She wondered where Ignitus went in all of the action. After a while of waiting, an Archen appeared.

"You kept me waiting quite a while." Frost said, looking displeased. The Ancient gave her a slight look of discomfort. Her reputation preceded her. She continued talking again. "What news, then?" She asked, clearly impatient, and not in the best mood. The Ancient was quick to reply.

"News of the battle in Eternity has reached Auron's ears. Sentry and Deluge of the Sentinels are waiting for you in Albia with orders from Lord Auron." Frost nodded in response.

"If you see Ignitus anywhere, pass along the message as well." The Ancient scout nodded, and took off. Frost looked back at the Ancient army as an Armaldo, who was their commander, stepped forward with a bow.

"What are you orders?" He asked, his head lowered. Frost sighed in reply. "I must go to Albia. You will take the army through the southern path of Shine City and then towards Cape City." The Armaldo Ancient looked at the map outstretched in front of him, and scratched his head, puzzled.

"Begging your pardon, ma'am, but would it not be quicker to cut through Eden Forest to Cape City instead of going around?"

Frost chuckled a bit in response, remembering that these Ancients were not native to this land, and therefore didn't know much of Eden Forest. "If you would like a prolonged and painful death, then by all means, go through the forest." The Armaldo froze up in response, getting stiff and a bit frightened. "Or, you can listen to me and go around."

The Armaldo nodded, bowed once more, and departed. Slowly afterward, the Ancient army began to make it's move away from the site, and onwards. Frost began heading north to Albia, and in her peripherals to her east in the far distance could be seen the sight of Eden Forest sprawled out for miles on end. Not even the Silver Tribe would be stupid enough to enter there. At least, not yet.

Penance Malum​

Demas blushed from Calamity's comment, "Aww, no need to be so forward with your compliments! She is state of the art, built to last for as long as we need her. On the subject of psychic moves, let's see..." He moved to the buttons, "She has... future sight, calm mind, confusion, heal pulse, hypnosis, miracle eye, psybeam, teleport, and zen headbutt! Not that great of a selection I know, but she is just the first stage! After I get approval, and a team, then I can build version two and have them mass produced! Soon all will know her name! Muhahahaha!"

Demas looked up and coughed, "Soooo, ready for a test drive?"

Penance shook his head, "Demas, I highly doubt Calamity will want to try with a chance of death."

Demas crossed his arms, "Well, that buizel didn't die and he does seem to be enjoying his new power!"

Indeed the buizel was firing ice beams around, trying to get used to the new attack.

Demas eyes sparkled, "So what do you say Calamity? Ready to take a risk and get an edge up in the competition?"

Penance rubbed his arm again as it flared up with pain again. "I'll be back later guys. I just need to get my arm checked real quick." Demas just waved a paw absently at him, "Sure, sure. So who else is interested? Get in line and get ready to learn moves to take down those sentinels!"

Penance walked, still rubbing his bicep. As he made his way to the house that acted as the temporary hospital he noticed Vigil and Speculum, "Hey Vigil! The others are over there with Demas. I'll be seeing you two around soon, just need to have something checked out." Penance continued on his way until he found the house and went inside.

There were doctors moving about and Penance managed to flag one down. The Chansey felt his arm and took a few notes, "Looks like your arm will need a cast."

"But why?"

"Simple, it's broken."

Penance frowned, "I don't feel anything though, just a little pain."

"You've been in battle. Your adrenaline was produced in high amounts and it blocked the pain receptors in your brain. Now the adrenaline count it going down and your arm is going to be in a lot of pain very soon."

Penance grudgingly held still as the Chansey fitted him with a cast. "Now just make sure that one stays on for a good three days and your arm will heal. Take some sitrus berries every now and then and it'll heal up even faster, just make sure to take them in moderation."

Penance nodded and walked out of the house. He wiggled his arm a bit and immediately bit back a cry of pain, it looked like he got the cast just in time. He sighed as he made his way back to the others. How was he going to explain this to Vigil?

Daricka "Wildfire" Cambar

The final blow on Noxious was dealt out by a Breloom that Focus Punched her right in the throat. The Sentinel stumbled, falling to the ground while grabbing at her throat as air failed to reach her lungs. She died, claws reached out toward the Snorlax. The Bisharp said a few final words to the Nidoqueen and Daricka bow her head in respect. Even if she had died an enemy, Noxious had once been one of them.

The dark flames concealing Daricka's body flickered then died all together. She slumped to the ground, finding that her legs would no longer strong enough to hold her without the energy provided by her blaze ability. Someone speaking drew her attention to the gathered Gold Tribe members and she wearily got to her feet, though she still ended up walking on all fours to where they were grouped.

"Well, I suppose introduction are in order, aren't they?" the Bisharp said, a couple of the other chuckling in response. "I am Zane Tyrael, known as 'Vigil'."

"I am Defender. It is wonderful to meet all of you," said the Golduck with a weak smile.

"Hanso SharpEye, called TrueStriker," a Gallade said shortly.

"Hi," said the Lilligant. "I'm Olivia Trace, but you may know me as Dryad. If any of you knew Catherine Trace the Nymph, I'm her sister."

Daricka looked at each of their faces in turn as they introduced themselves. She had heard many of their names before and maybe seen them a couple of times but - mainly due to her rather secluded nature - had never actually met any of them. When it was her turn, she said, "Daricka Cambar. My title is Wildfire."

"Well, well. If it isn't Defender, Sword and Shield, Vigil, Dryad, Wildfire, Dark Lightning, Hoodhide, Calamity, Speculum, and TrueStriker. Did I get that all right? Information and news travels fast, you know," a voice coming from the hooded "Rey" said. Only, Daricka knew this voice wasn't his. Even though she didn't really need to, she slowly turned her head, trying to her best to keep the look of surprise off of her face. Sure enough, there was Lyn "Guardia" Reed, the daught of Adam "Rey" Reed. The Infernape had seen their leader's daughter on numerous occasions, whereby she had memorized her voice without even meaning to.

"Lyn...Guardia! I can't believe it's you! How did you escape the Silver Tribe!? Where have you been all this time?" Vigil exclaimed.

Guardia grinned back at the Bisharp. "It's good to see you too, Vigil." She stated, then added with a look around at the rest of the Gold Tribe, "All of you. When I found out so many made it, and you rescued General Hazone, I knew I had to find a way to get a hold of you. I figured I'd stir up some action in town, and you'd find me. People get drawn to my father's name, so I hid under his title. It turned out pretty good. Got a bunch of people scared that's for sure!"

"Then…Rey…is he really…?" Vigil asked hesitantly. Guardia didn't need to answer. They all knew Rey was dead. When the Zangoose presented her Gold Tribe insignia, even from where she sat Daricka could make out that it was Rey's.

A Chansey went up and spoke to Vigil and, after it had handed him something, he excused himself to go see to something. Calamity was turning towards Daricka, but before he could say anything Guardia cleared her throat to get their attention. "So I seen Vigil has been your interim leader while I was away? I guess since I'm here, we can start doing things properly again. I am the daughter of Rey, after all, so I should take over. It's only fitting. We should scout around at what's being done to secure the city. Come on, I'll lead the way." When no one followed, she turned back. "What are you waiting for?"

Daricka narrowed her eyes, slightly irritated by the young Zangoose's confidence. She was glad to see her, yes, but one doesn't earn loyalty by immediately demanding to be followed, especially with the excuse of birthright. The others seemed to share her opinion as Dark Lightning spoke, "If I may, Guardia. I feel as if everyone here should make a collective decision on who is best fitting to lead the Gold Tribe, not who should lead by blood. As far as I see, at the point where we are with so few of us around, this should be the obvious course of action."

"I have to agree," Gladius said. "Being the daughter of Rey makes you an obvious candidate for the position of being a leader. But, I am sure the others have another thoughts on this. We have not seen quite a lot of you after the invasion, so there is really no perfect way to tell if you had develop your... let's say, attitude. Yes, your actions are heroic indeed and is a great factor in our victory here, but that is all we have seen of you. To be honest, no offense meant, if we would have a snap election right now, I think Vigil is the more suitable. But I suggest we don't. I know you are good in battle, and had inherited Rey's will. You just have some setbacks. So, do not force us to choose. Right now, can we just please all relax? My bones are screaming in pain." The Snorlax sat down again.

Penance seemed to be about to say something, but before he could a Raichu came and dragged him off. Daricka raised a brow at the odd display before turning her attention back to the matter at hand. Fortunately, Guardia seemed to have backed down for the moment.

"Alright, we can talk about this later, I guess. We should find something to eat!" Lyn said, a forced smile on her face. "Come on, maybe now that the battle is over, the shops will open as well. Heck, I bet Gold Tribe eat for free!"

"Well, I am quite hungry...," Dark Lightning admitted, following after Guardia.

"Uh...I'll-catch-you-guys latr. I don't think I'm-ready to-walk," Hoodhide squeaked.

Calamity nodded at Hoodhide. "I'm a bit beat myself. I'll join you, Hoodhide." He looked at TrueStriker. "You can come with us as well, brother, unless you are hungry."

"Oh, alright right." Guardia said. "Dark Lightning and I will look for a nice place to eat while you guys lick your wounds. We'll find you if we see something good!" The Zangoose ran off, Dark Lightning and TrueStriker in her wake.

"She's quite...energetic, isn't she?" Calamity said with a smile in Daricka, Sword and Shield, and Dryad's direction. Wildfire merely grunted in response.

"Oh, honorable Gold Tribe! I am glad that I found you! Right before your eyes you are about to see the prize of the Alpha Alliance! A machine so rare that it could very well change the way the war is fought! A machine that will cause utmost fear just by it's name alone!" the voice came from the same Raichu that had dragged Penance away; the Golduck followed him holding some sort of machine that he placed near the electric mouse.

As the Raichu babbled on about his new invention, Daricka zoned out as she felt a wave of diziness. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath to steady herself. When she opened them again, a Buizel was sneezing an Ice Beam onto the ground. Penance seemed to be upset about it, though Daricka had missed the reason in her brief dizzy spell. Calamity at first seemed to agree with the Golduck, then seemed to take an interest when he asked, "Any move, you say? How about a Psychic one?" From the way he eyed the machine, Daricka guessed it had something to do with Pokemon moves.

Daricka zoned out once again as she tried a Calm Mind to revitalize herself somewhat, but it didn't seem to do the trick. She wearily opened her eyes and watched the commotion, only half listening.

Ignitus - Somewhere Outside of Eternity City

Retreat. Ignitus hated the word, it disgusted her. They could call it what they would, it was still a loss. Moving in the other direction, living today to fight tomorrow, leaving, giving up. All still a loss. She stood on a hill watching the wearing Ancient army abandon Eternity City, the lines of tired troops dragging their feet through the field walking over the grass already trampled by the many soldiers in front of them. The army was considerably smaller than at the beginning of the battle. The Gold Tribe had come in at a disadvantage, with a smaller rebellion force. Yet they had won. It was humiliating.

Something caught her attention, a lone soldier moving in the opposite direction of the rest of the army. As he got closer, Ignitus saw that the insignias on the soldier were different than the others, the marks of a messenger. Ignitus immediately had a bad feeling, the dread of having to face Auron after this defeat. The soldier nervously approached Ignitus. Nervous was good. Perhaps she would just torch the messenger before he could deliver the message, and thereby avoid punishment from Auron for a little while. She could even say that she thought he was a spy. She could get away with it, she had before. Instead she decided to listen to him, and if she didn't like the news she would kill him and ignore the bad news. Maybe she would even kill him if the news was good. It might relieve some stress.

Finally the messenger spoke, overcoming his nervousness. "News of the battle in Eternity has reached Auron's ears. Sentry and Deluge of the Sentinels are waiting for you in Albia with orders from Lord Auron" ,the Archen said. After that the messenger ran off, probably to deliver some other message. Smart of him, Ignitus would leave quickly too seeing as how grumpy she was at the moment. Oh well, it wasn't too bad. At least she wouldn't have to confront Auron directly. Sentry she could deal with, he wasn't too bad. Deluge...she didn't really know Deluge all that well. Time would tell.

For now it was time to leave. Albia was towards the north east, but the rest of the army was heading in a different direction, towards Cape City. It would appear that she would be going alone then. Maybe meet up with Frost on the way, but she hoped not. She just couldn't stand Frost at all. Ignitus started out a a brisk run, not too fast. She still had to conserve her energy, it was a large distance, and she didn't want to stop if she could avoid it. She had run longer distances before without stopping, but the battle left her tired.

Later....

Ignitus was exhausted. Between the battle and running for hours, she was completely worn out. The wind blown landscape stretched before her, and it was impossible to tell exactly how close she was to Albia. She had stopped for a little while in a copse, the small trees blocking the wind for the most part. Ignitus considered starting out once again, to try to make it to Albia tonight, but she tossed the idea away. Instead she went about making herself busy, gathering together small branches and breaking apart thin logs, then gathering them into a small pile. She used a flamethrower on the pile, lighting it immediately, lighting up the night casting shadows through the copse. Ignitus curled up by the fire, letting the heat warm her fur. She fell into a light doze, prepared to wake at the instant of danger, but deep enough to rest. She would leave in the morning. But now, to rest....

Albia

From the top of the Aerodactyl that carried her, Albia could be seen in the distance. Even by Flying Pokemon, by the time she had finally reached Albia from the Gravel City ruins, the sun had set and evening was approaching. Frost touched down onto the ground right in front of the city. Unlike Eternity City, Albia was sprawled over quite a large area, with very few large buildings, and instead many small ones. Eternity was more in a condensed space with quite a bit of large structures (and small ones). Albia was a city built long ago using wood from Eden Forest's edge to the east, and partially rock using the Korhal Mountains to the north, but primarily wood make up most of the residential structures present. Frost proceeded inside the city.

Albia had no giant wall like Eternity City. Instead, four watchtowers made of stone were built long ago on every side of Albia. Because of the large amount of smaller buildings in a large area, these watchtowers could be used to see the entire city below, and quite a bit of distances outward as well, especially against enemies, who would usually come from the great plains to the west. Not many attempted attacks from the mountains because of the severe weather usually coming from there, and few, if any, dared enter Eden Forest nowadays. When the Silver Tribe launched their initial attack on Albia, they themselves attacked from the west. They lost many Ancients in the process, but for Auron and the Sentinels, they were expendable, a necessary loss.

As night approached, Ancients began forcing the curfew placed on the citizens, and the Alpha Alliance citizens slowly began piling into their houses. As they saw Frost pass by, however, their slow pace was quickened until many panicked to go back into their homes. To them, they thought Frost the Sentinel was here to collect people into her torturehouses. Frost smiled at the panicked stated of the Pokemon. That was how it should be.

Frost scurried past the area and moved closer to the center of the city. Soon, the city was getting quiet besides the silent patrolling of Ancients in certain areas. Frost eventually reached her destination close to the center of the city. It was a rather long building, and one of the few made of stone. The height of the building didn't exceed much of the other structures of Albia, but it was indeed the most lenghty. Upon observing, one could see the markings covering the side of the walls of the building, decorations of Pokemon art. This building was called the Hall of Albia.
Frost didn't stay long in observance, and instead, proceeded immediately inside. Immediately in front of her was a throne, emptied. To the sides of her, where the hall extending quite long, was empty, with very few lighting besides candles on either side of the walls in a pattern. However, close by the throne with his claws on a table over a map was Drake "Sentry" Nol, who held a look of displeasure as he saw Frost enter the room.

"Frost." Drake muttered. "Where is Ignitus?" He asked, dully. It was clear he didn't want to spend much time here. Sentry was usually the lone wolf of the Sentinels, neither liking the company of others, nor quite frankly speaking to them. Besides being a brilliant fighter, he was also the Sentinels' best scout and tactician. Frost disliked him greatly.

"Sentry." She said in reply. "I don't know. I assumed she'd be here by now too." Sentry gazed back at the map, coldly speaking. "Perhaps she died along with Beserker and Noxious...No matter, we'll wait for her arrival, if she yet lives."

Frost looked around the immediate hall area, scanning with her eyes. "Where is Deluge?" Frost asked. "He went out for a moment a while ago. He should be back soon. When he returns and Ignitus arrives, I shall share Auron's bidding with you."

Frost looked angrily at Sentry, who did not return a stare back, nor spoke another word with Frost as he hunched over, looking at the map, making occasional markings every so often. Frost sighed, and went over to the throne, sitting down on it before muttered. "I hate waiting."