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[PKMN OPEN] Pokémon Odyssey: Search For Cresselia (IC)

Snype, Cal, and James- Upping the stakes
​

"You rang?" The familiar voice of James asked as he peaked through the room Snype was laying inside. "Got some job for me?"

"Yeah. I told Obsidian then you can go with him to take out those that were going after the Watcher. Oughta give you plenty to do over there. Kehehe" Snype said with a wide grin. "And... on top of that, I figured I should discuss the issue of funds with you." Snype said.

"Right, you owe me for the coming week soon," James concurred with a slight nod of his head. "Might as well give it to me now if you plan to send me away for a long time."

The Sableye stared at him sternly. "That's just the problem though. With your services, the funds on the thieves have been running kinda dry. To be blunt I'd say I have about... four weeks or so before the thieves kick the bucket." Snype said with a sigh. "So... I was hoping to make an arrangement with you. If you'd care to listen. I can sweeten up the deal with you." Snype said to him.

James shook his head. "Nah, I like our current deal. Where am I going?" He asked, ignoring most of Snype's complaint about his monetary problems.

Snype winced a bit at that. "James, I know you don't care about the money I'm throwing at you. You just want to keep a more powerful position over me. And to be frank, its been working for awhile. Why take money though when I could offer you something that you yourself would actually find valuable?" Snype asked. He knew his own chatter wouldn't work. A thief couldn't convince a warrior so easily. Thankfully he had a plan B.

James snorted a bit. "A more powerful position over you?" James repeated in a somewhat mocking tone. "Who the hell have you been talking to? Alright, I'll humor you, what did you have in mind?" He asked skeptically as he crossed his arms.

Snype sat up straight. "Kinda got the idea after you threw my cash in the lake. Oh, a little birdie told me I spose." Snype snorted right back. "Obsidian told me. You see potential in us correct? You just want stronger opponents to face. I can help you."

A light thumping of oversized footsteps heralded the entrance of a certain-green-Dragonite, walking into the room and stretching as if he wasn't taking it all too seriously yet. "You rang?"

"Keh... yeah. Was hoping you'd help my case. I doubt I little thief like me would make an entirely convincing case. Kehehe." Snype said with a wide grin.

"Potential in you..." James repeated as he glanced at Snype and then to Cal. He continued to cross his arms and wait for the two to explain their proposition.

"If I end up running out of money and losing our service with you... then how do you expect to keep an eye on us and become formidable foes? How else am I supposed to send you off to find the strongest mon Darkrai sends out? If they're going after this watcher then you can be damn sure that the best of the best will be sent out to find it. Enough to keep you entertained at least. Kehehe... not to mention this army of his about to strike in Albia. You can't tell me the though doesn't excite you?" Snype said with a wide grin. "Of course, if that doesn't interest you, our group has other ways to keep your attention." He motioned over to Cal to hear his own case.

"As for me." Cal began. "I've actually thinking about this for a while and I have a proposition for you if talking isn't enough. James, what would you say to a one-on-one match between me and you? Not a bout of sparring, but a knuckle-busting brawl if I win, you work for us pro-bono until Darkrai is defeated. You can name your price for if you win and see if we think you're worth the risk."

James glanced at Snype and Cal again with his single good eye. After continuous silence for a while, he spoke, first to Snype. "The army striking Albia doesn't interest me. Nor does most of the 'mon Darkrai is sending out to find the Watcher. That's just part of the job. But this..." He glanced at Cal. "I can't say it doesn't. But I also know it's a mistake on your part if I accept, and probably on mine too."

"Keheheh, knowing Cal he's likely to go all out on you. I can't think of anyone else who would fit the role of such a challenge." Snype said.

"Why do you say it would be a mistake James? I'm sure we could pull it off without crippling each other, besides, we've got a healer now." Cal queried.

"I don't care about injuring you," James replied with a shrug. "I care about beating you. You're not ready to face me, yet. It's a mistake. I'd win, and then all my work would have been for nothing."

Cal tapped his chin thoughtfully, he was almost indignant about James' response. But he also knew the mercenary wasn't one to say something out of pure arrogance, and was generally a good judge of strength. "Hmm...well if we were to do it, what would your price be if you win?"

"I quadruple my fee instantly," James stated nonchalantly without hesitation. "Meaning, from what Snype said earlier, all of his remaining money given to me immediately."

"Tsk, if I keep you around I'm going to go broke anyways. If I fire you... well... I take you'd end up on Darkrai's side correct?" Snype replied.

"I wouldn't be on your side anymore," James commented. "Believe me, I'd rather not go through with it. This is just to stop you from trying. I'd rather stay my last few weeks with you, or at least... until you're ready."

"Then stay with us. Make Cal ready for you and you'll have the opponent you've been longing for." Snype spoke back.

"If that's what you want me to do for the next four weeks, then that's what I'll do," James responded with a nod. "As part of our arranged price and deal."

"Dammit all! " Snype shouted out. "I could have Cal go with you and Obsidian over to Tollen but... gahhh..."

"I can go wherever." Cal said. "I'm all healed up."

"You sure Cal? I don't know how long you'll be gone in Tollen or who's going to be over there. What about Karn?" Snype asked. He felt like he was manipulating everything for his own needs. He normally wouldn't care about this sort of thing but with recent events...

"Well, if we can't expect the group to be back by the time the rest leave for Karn then James shouldn't be going anyways." Cal said. "He's the most important person for us to bring to Karn, he has authority and respect there. Not to mention his own army."

Snype looked down for a moment then over to James. "...Alright then. Cal will go with James to Tollen to take out anybody searching for the Watcher. And in the mean time, James will train you in whatever way he deems fit to put you on par within the next couple of weeks. Hell, if you want to make a real scene? Then the two of you can settle it in Karn. Kehehe." Snype smirked. "Seems fitting eh? And at the same time, we can show the other generals in Karn that we mean business! Cal will be our man to vouch for the group."

Cal looked at James and raised an eyebrow, wondering how he felt about Snype's plan.

James, who still had his arms crossed, sighed and then nodded. "If that's what you want, then that's that. Don't regret it later. I'll let Obsidian know and we'll leave right away."

"Sound good to me then. You better make Cal an unstoppable monster by the end of this. Keheh" Snype said with a wide grin before turning to Cal. "Before you go Cal I gotta chat with you a sec."

James nodded and headed outside. "Right, I'll meet up with you later."

"What's up Snype?" Cal asked, arms folded.

Snype looked sternly toward Cal. Possibly the most serious face ever made by the Sableye in his lifetime. "Cal. I hope you understand that you are the deciding factor on whether or not the thieves stay alive or not. Hell, I'm expecting James to put you through hell to train you up to his level. Infact, I want him too. Keheh. Are you sure your up for this? Cause if you lose on this bet... well..." Snype shook his head. "Well I dunno honestly. I'd rather not think about it. I got a good feeling about you either way. Keheh"

Cal's expression grew more serious to match Snype's and nodded. "I'll do my best to keep everyone alive, and I will definitely beat James when the time comes. I've got a few tricks up my sleeve...and I think I've figured out how to tap into that power I managed to channel when I fought Gabriel...only time will tell though."

"...Well if you'll definitely beat James then I'll hold you to that. But don't you dare lose. I'm betting the life of the thieves here. If they're lost then this whole war is going to get alot more complicated. Trust me on this. I need you to absolutely break your limits here. Make Mega Evolving seem like just a tiny little boost to your power in comparison. Keheh" Snype stated. "Though... how'd you like the whole bit about Karn I added in the end eh? Kehehe! I thought you'd like that."

"Mega Evolving..." Cal muttered. "I wonder just how many stops James intends to pull out when we fight..."

"Cal I'll be honest here. If you have to Mega Evolve to beat him..." Snype leaned in closer. "Do it. I'm dead serious on this. I value the thieves that much. I don't mean to put pressure on you like this but it's just that important." Snype said to him. "...but only if he pulls out his own Mega Stone on you. I don't want you to waste yourself out in Karn unless you absolutely have to. We may need that stone for something else."

"I won't mega evolve, and neither will James, it's just not something he would do, and it would be pointless. Still, fighting him won't be easy, it's lucky I have a type advantage, even if it is a small one." Cal really hoped he could handle it all...but he knew he had a chance as long as he gave it his all. He wasn't weak anymore, and he never would be again. Those days were long gone.

Snype felt a huge sigh of relief escape his lips. "Yeah... keheh. I sure hope your right on that. Sorry again to drop something so big after you just recovered and all... really, I'm surprised you're okay with helping me out like this. A thief of all things you know? Keheh." Snype said with a wide grin. "Well, best not waste any more time with James in our employment. Do whatever you have to do. I'm counting on you."
 
ONE WEEK LATER - A Lost Friend​

The leaves crunched underground as the Raichu raced along the grassy terrain. He huffed a bit, not quite used to running so fast. He had been a teacher, for crying out loud. He finally made his way to the gate and doubled over, panting loudly, "N-Need to head back to the camp." He coughed out to the guard. "It's a very... cough, very important emergency!"

A Mr. Mime guard leaned over from his watchtower. "State your business!" He declared to the Raichu below. "Whose flags you flying?"

"Seeker!" He called out, letting out another cough. "Time is of the essence!" He bellowed up. "I must speak to Penance! Something terrible has come up!"

"One of Penance's boys, huh?" He asked. "Yeah, head on through, not sure if he's here, but you can port over if not." He motioned for the Raichu to pass on through the gates, which creaked open with the help of a team of Gravelers.

The Raichu rushed in, clearly out of breath. He made his way through the throng of other warriors, huffing all the while. He was pretty sure that he had pulled a hamstring on his rush over here and now he could feel it. He limped over to where the porting psychics were, still clearly distressed. "One... pant... port to home base." He coughed a bit, "It's an emergency."

"Name and position in the Seekers?" The Psychic asked the Raichu.

"Jerehmiah Winters." He panted out. "Second class educator."

The Psychic closed his eyes for a moment, before he opened and nodded. "Confirmed identity. Connecting to home base network point... connection established. Sending you there now..." In a flash of light, the Raichu disappeared.

~~~

"Alright? How about this? Let's say... for some reason... you end up stuck on an island by yourself. Aaaand, you can only bring one item with you to help you survive. What would you bring, and why?" The Golduck leaned over the table to smirk at Revoll, "And no backsies once you've chosen." The last week had been.... unique. Mostly for Revoll. Penance was rather interested with the Heracross, not once really leaving his side as he got to know the bug, and even imparted knowledge of his own background. In fact, to most within the Seekers, it looked as if Penance was doing his hardest to impress Revoll with his many accomplishments. Not only that, but the Golduck had slowly begun to change in a few small ways. Some could swear they would see a more... sadistic smirk on his bill. Others lay down rumors that he wasn't paying as aggessive attention to the problems he Seekers faced as much. But that was just all rumor.

"That question," Revoll began to comment. "Is very misleading. I assume I cannot leave, as I could technically fly off?"

"Of course not." The duck playfully poked his tongue out. "You just land plop right on the island. No boats come by, no bird types come to seek you out. No one even knows you're there or where the island is. All you can do is bring one item with you."

Revoll smiled and reached for something within his shoulder plate. He brought out a small mirror, and showed it to Penance. "This, then. An heirloom I've always had on me. I will rely on my own wits and the island's resources to sustain myself. And this will give me the comfort to survive," He gestured to the mirror.

Penance snorted, "Iiiiii would bring a cask of liquor." He giggled. "It's a party over there, I say! And-"

"Parden me, sire," An Espeon guard walked in through the tent. "A message for Penance from a seeker. A Mr. Winters."

Penance was silent for a moment, then spoke with a VERY tense tone in his voice, "... I was speaking to Revoll." The Golduck said rather softly. Despite his apparent calmness it was clear something was stirring under the Golduck's words. "Can't it wait?"

"The Raichu insisted. He said it was urgent," The Espeon replied with a slight twitch. Revoll glanced between the two and cleared his throat.

"Very well, send him in," He ordered.

Penance just let out a loud sigh, soon turning about to get off the desk.

Still sporting a lame leg was the Raichu, who offered a weak smile, "Um... hello Penance, Mr. Revoll." He gave the Heracross a low bow, "Something... something big has come up."

"And what is this big thing?" Penance asked, fully withholding the venom he wanted to project.

Winters was silent for a moment, "Well... um... LE 215... " He fell silent for a bit longer, "That code I saw first during my brief stay in Tollen. I at first thought it was nothing... and then just this week I heard of another who saw thise same code... but in Anatellia when they were pulled out." He bit his lower lip, "And it stirred some memories in my own head. I remember it a bit..."

"From Hanso..." Penance murmured. His eyes had widened at the realization. For a moment the Golduck tensed up, looking ready to explode, but then he quickly relaxed. "Excuse me you two." The duck quickly got up and made his way outside. There was an awkward silence between the two until loud screams from the Golduck echoed out. Winters winced at the many cusses the duck exclaimed, squirming more and more until finally Penance came back in with a smile, "Well, THAT was therapeutic!" He declared cheerfully as he sat back on down.

"Everything alright?" Revoll asked with a concerned look. He placed his arms on his desk and examined the Golduck.

Penance's smiled quickly faded, "No..." He sighed, "I know that codename. It's one of Hanso's stupid things." He muttered. He looked at Winters, "Come back in when I call for you."

The Raichu gave a weak nod and quickly exited as the duck glared at him. Penance looked back at Revoll, "... A few months after Darkrai was defeated the first time we had excavated some forgotten books from the cave that held the knokwledge of Darkrai and his previous attack on Valkaria." He sighed, "Suffice to say we came upon a few... odd volumes. One of these contained a stage play that had been created after Darkrai had been sealed away the first time. It had been written by the Valkarians and we looked to it to see if it could explain anything further on Darkrai's nature. Most of it was over exaggerated garbage. You know, there was one scene which stated that the heroes of the play had to travel through perilous ruins in a city in Karn to retrieve the golden bracelet?"

He scoffed and crossed his arms, "Stupid, I know. Well, one thing that the play mentioned was something that Cresselia had 'apparently' done. There is the golden bracelet, we all know that. But there was something else... many things." He put his fingers together, "The play spoke of other items that she had enchanted with her powers. Golden items that were back ups, in case she ended up being killed by Darkrai and that the plan to seal him failed. At first I thought that it was a silly detail they had added. Hanso thought differently." The duck rolled his eyes, "He thought that there might be some truth to it. That there could be other golden items hidden around, buried in other places. I wanted to release this information to the public, of course, but the generals said they would have to check to see if these accusations in the play were correct."

He sighed, "So.. Hanso sent out guys wherever we went to search. Secretly of course. And he found nothing! Or so he told me!" A brief flash of red overcame the Golduck's eyes. "That stupid two crossing, gah!" A spurt of psychic power was released that caused the tent flaps to rustle. "Well, he lied to me. Right in my face! That stupid 215 group of his won't get far." He stood up and began to pace, "He said they would mark areas where the relics were located. And since we're already out and attacking it means those places probably have some sort of SEC presence already. How many relics could they have found? Where?" He turned to Revoll, "You have an idea? I have none! Stupid play wouldn't even mention how many there were!" He gripped his forehead, "Gah! Of course he would lie! Stupid Gallades." He muttered more to himself now, "Probably told the generals and not even his bestest pal. Not pal."

Revoll pondered this for a moment in silence. He pressed his arms to his mouth and glanced at a spot on the table for a while. He seemed to try and take in all of the facts, before he responded. "Indeed, this is quite troubling..." He finally stated. "Recall something for me, wasn't the golden bracelet formed by a transfer of the Gold Crystal thirty years ago?" He asked. "It's energies came then, not necessarily from Cresselia."

"That is true." Penance murmured. "We had a gold crystal and that ended up being destroyed... but some of that power went into a bracelet. But if they were multiple crystals... or anything else holding that power..." He frowned, "It took us all that time to learn it could transfer into other items. What if... what if Cresselia left such crystals in the other countries? What if the citizens of the past figured out how to hide them, or even transfer their energy into specific items?" He crossed his arms, "I mean, look at Anatellia! If any additonal golden crystals were left over, then surely one would have been placed there! Not to mention other places that have since been lost to time."

"Indeed," Revoll nodded, and placed his palms flat on the ground. "This is very useful information you have brought me, Penance. I will definitely use it. Allow me to take care of this problem."

For the briefest of moments Penance's eyes flashed red at his words, "... I want some Seekers in there too..." He finally stated, "If anything, I hate those who plan around my back." He crossed his arms, "I trusted him... that's all I'll say on the matter." He grit his teeth, then called out, "Winters, get back in here!"

The meek Raichu made his way back in, his leg now at least cooperating with him now. "... I know you heard us. These tents aren't too thick. Especially with my shouting." He snapped his fingers, "Get this info to the Seekers around here. On the double. If they so much as see a code within their travels, make sure they report it back. If they see any SEC even... kill them. All of them."

Winters gulped nervously and made his way to the door. Penance began to pace, visibly stewing as a light purple aura slowly formed around his form, "Oh... oh.... haha.... he's going to pay... pay pay..." he muttered angrily to himself.

"Hold on a moment, Mr. Winters," Revoll called the departing Raichu.

Winters halted in his steps, "Um... yes, Mr. Revoll?" He asked the bug, warily eyeing the seething Penance.

"I understand you answer to Penance, and I respect his command of his troop," Revoll explained. "But as you may know, I am the Supreme Commander of Darkrai's forces, and the Seekers are under that command now too. So if you would, belay the last part of the order. If you do encounter any SEC, bring them alive, if at all possible."

Winters offered a weak smile, visibly relaxing at that, "Y-Yes, of course!"

As he left Penance looked at Revoll, "Why? You have enough SEC." He retorted. "It would mark Hanso more if we go my way."

"Let's just say you can never have enough SEC," Revoll answered plainly.

Penance snorted at that, "Look, psychics are already crawling around this place!" He crossed his arms, "Next thing you know, this will be a psychic only type club."

"SEC is made up of more than just Psychics," Revoll responded just as plainly.

~~~

Winters did his round as was bid. Most of the time he was lucky to catch such Seeker groups in droves, but there were some times where he would have to wade through crowds to spread the word. As the word spread around several Seekers began to talk among themselves. Even other soldiers began to talk. Did the opposition have some plan going on now? One that could give them an advantage in the war? Whatever the case, it didn't sound good at all.

Penance slowly calmed down as the afternoon swayed on. Finally he looked over at Revoll, "... So." He said, "I did want to talk with you about something else."

"You always do," Revoll replied with a slight smile. "But I will need to depart soon, some urgent business has come up, so ask your questions now."

Penance looked up at the top of the tent, and spoke with a more philosophical tone. "... How would you want to die? If you could choose." He quickly explained, "Like... what's the number one way you would want to go? Blaze of glory? Battling a giant dragon as it eats you? Fighting a whole mob of enemies? How?"

Revoll glanced toward Penance and smiled. "I don't want to die, truly," He replied to Penance. "I doubt anyone does. But if I had to die, it would be when all I have done is accomplished in this world, and I am an old, worn 'mon in my bed, surrounded by my family. And to fall asleep peacefully in my bed, and never wake up."

Penance was silent, "For... for so long I wanted to die." He explained. "I... I looked for excuses all around. I thought maybe... Karn would have killed me." He chuckled, "It's not easy being mad. Less so now." His smile faded, "... I wanted to die for so long. And then I met you." He gave a nod to Revoll, "I can't quite explain it, but you get me more than others do. You... it's like..." He frowned, "If I had met you before... then maybe I wouldn't have been so mad."

Revoll laughed lightly. "I do not think I have done anything special. I only listened. Sometimes, that's all it takes."

Penance smiled at that, "... Yeah." He fell silent for a bit, "Revoll... I..." His voice was choked upu a bit with just some... emotion? "I want to let you know something else. You really are a good guy. You are. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise." He looked away, "... If I had met you... say, ten years ago, then by this point we would probably be inseparable. We would have been by now the bestest of friends. I know that hands down. You're smart, witty, and you know just what to say." He fell silent, "It makes it all the more harder. But... have you ever met someone who hated to lose?" He asked out loud. Without waiting for an answer he answered his own question, "I have. I met him when I was so small. He hated to lose so much. He would do all sorts of things... bad things, to get out on top. To say that he won." He sighed again, "What I'm saying... doesnt make sense right now. But.... well, you know how I speak." he chuckled, "... I'm sorry." With that the duck got up from his seat and held out a hand as a psychic grip grabbed hold of Revoll.

Revoll opened his eyes wide as he was suddenly grabbed psychically by Penance. "What are you doing?"

Penance was silent for a moment, before he spoke, "Lying." He squeezed the bug hard, specifically around his throat.

Revoll's eyes continued to open wide, as he began to gasp for air and bring his hands around his neck, to try and losen his grip. "You're... making... gah... a mistake..."

Penance was silent for a bit. "... In many ways... I am..." He said softly. "I don't... I don't want to kill you. But, I like this world." He chuckled a bit, "I like it so much. My mother liked it too. Most people like it. But... this? Going to one such extreme? It's not good. An extreme like this is just like overeating... or drinking so much water that you end up drowning." He narrowed his eyes, "Having pure freedom will doom this world. That's... my belief. Funny enough, I never lied about us. I like you, a lot. Maybe... in another universe. Maybe if this had never happened. Maybe... we could have been true friends." He lowered his head in shame. "I'm sorry... my friend." He flicked his finger a bit, using his psychic power to twist the Heracross' neck. "... Sorry..."

Revoll gaped and gasped for air. He began flailing his arms, before he reached down desperately, and pulled up an item to his face. It was the mirror, the same mirror he showed Penance earlier. He pointed the mirror at Penance. "Ga-Gabriel!" Revoll managed to exhale from between his gasps. On the mirror, an image began to form. Dark energies encircled it, and then a powerful blast emanated from the mirror and targeted the Golduck.

Penance could only grit his teeth as the blast hit him. He knew this power... it was what was in his own bones now, and what he had felt so long ago. He staggered back, "Already... the attack will be happening..." He raised a hand up into the sky as a burst of water formed amid his finger tips. With a quick psychic blast the water pulse shot up through the roof of the tent. "It's nothing personal." Penance said with a frown, "It's just.... " He fell into a dark chuckle as he eyes glowed a deep red, "Business." His body crackled with power, "Isn't that right... dear friend? Just like how you've been going against us all this time. Just how it's always been."

Revoll breathed heavily, catching his breath as he backed away from the Golduck. "I never did trust you. It seems I was right to not do so," He stated. "You're right, this... gah... this is only the business of war, and we must seek every advantage we can get. But it's like I said when you first joined up with us. Gabriel never expected you to join. In fact, he didn't want you to. Your treachery here will be your own undoing, I promise you that." He declared, as he managed to prop himself up and walk to the end of the tent, where a giant gong was located. Revoll smashed against the gong loudly, a signal to others outside about danger. "You won't leave here, Penance. And you can expect less from your Seekers."

Penance gave a nod to Revoll, "Before we truly begin..." He said as he shifted his body more into a combat stance, "No matter what happens... you are a match for me. Either one of our sides will win. That's how war is. To be honest... I wiped my memories before I came here. Theoretically speaking, before the code word was spoken to me, I was for all intents and purposes here legitimately as a loyal follower. A long time ago I met a body who hated to lose. That boy... was who I became the night my mother died." He held up both hands as a psychic pulse was shot at Revoll. "If you win this... then I do honestly wish you the best in beating everyone." He smirked at the Heracross, "So... let's see what the outcome becomes!"

Revoll ducked out of the way, rolling to avoid the attack flung at him. He shook his head. "I am no warrior, Penance. I cannot beat you in a fight," He stated to the Golduck, as Revoll's personal guard began pouring into the tent. Among them included the Hitmonlee Royal Knight from Tollen, the Espeon from earlier, and three other guards: a Miltank, a Jumpluff, and a Gengar. "But I also don't have to," He stepped back and extended his arm. "Take him. Alive if possible. Dead if necessary." The 'mon attacked Penance together from every side. The Gengar launched a shadow ball from his left, while the Miltank proceeded to Rollout into his direction. The Espeon fired a Psychic, and the Hitmonlee jumped in with a High Jump Kick. The Jumpluff used the attacks to try and drowse the Golduck with Sweet Scent.

Penance held his arms in and as the attacks came at him he spread his arms out as a psychic blast, tinged with some darkness, shot out from his body in a wide berth around him. "Not so fast!" He sneered at Revoll. He didn't care about the guards as he formed a Water Pulse and flung it at the Heracross. The Hitmonlee quickly intercepted and took the brunt of the Water Pulse for the General, as the Heracross began making his way out of the tent. He quickly fell back from the attack, but shook it off and proceeded to stand slowly. The Gengar helped to block the Golduck further by moving into his path and firing another Shadow Ball. The Jumpluff fell back from Penance's Psychic blast, as did the Miltank, but the Espeon managed to avoid most of the damage to help fire off another Psychic at Penance.

Penance just chuckled and jumped up to avoid the Shadow Ball, but grunted as the psychic blast hit him. "Good! Show me your strength! This is all or nothing!" He held out a hand to grab hold of the Jumpluff and swung his hand so that the grabbed mon would be slammed into the Espeon. "Cause I have more strength now! You'll need all you can bring!"

The Jumpluff collided into the Espeon, as both fell to the floor. The Hitmonlee recovered fully now and observed as his other allies had fallen to the floor from their collisions. "Idiots," He muttered. "I figured you'd turn sooner or later. We have some unfinished business from Tollen, duck." The Hitmonlee stated.

"Not with you." Penance said. He gathered some strength in his legs and leaped up, using a small psychic blast to propel him higher as he slashed through the roof of the tent. Now.... to find Revoll again! Only problem was that there was chaos around him. It was evident a few of the soldiers were taken off guard as there were tents already ablaze and fighting out between them. "That's what I like to see..." He murmured to himself. "Burn it all..." Yes, the chaos... it was so pleasant to him now. It wouldn't be too hard to find the weasel... hopefully.

From the Golduck's left, a powerful and swift kick suddenly made its way to the Seeker leader's face. It was the Hitmonlee again, relentless and pursuant as ever. "You think it's that easy to get away from me?" He asked with a snort. "Get over yourself!"

Penance rubbed at his face, his blue form starting to take on tinges of black, "... You shouldn't have done that." He murmured, his eyes now a deep red as he turned his attention to the Hitmonlee. "You honestly shouldn't have..." He cracked his neck once and let out a cry. A psychic force shot out from his body. "... Let's begin!" He raced right at the fighter, two water pulses forming in each hand. He flung each pulse at his target, but then raced right past him. He knew what the 'lee was doing. He couldn't take the bait. He had one objective here, and he wouldn't be detered by it!

The Hitmonlee avoided the first water pulse with a flip, but was unable to avoid the second one as well. "Urgh... faster than before," He commented as he was dropped to the ground. He tried getting up and continued his pursuit of Penance, but the Golduck was already on his way out. However, by the more of Revoll's guard had recovered, as well as many more began dropping into the area. The entire place was a mess, but there were so many 'mon around that it was hard to tell exactly what was happening. More 'mon began to surrounded and tail Penance, including two Furrets, the Espeon and Jumpluff from before, as well as the Miltank and Gengar from before.

"You guys wouldn't be up for a bribe, right!?" He called back to them, "If he got half of ya from Tollen, I'm sure you're pretty easy to bribe! 50 coins!" He turned and threw out a pulse as he kept on running. He just had to out pace them! He was freaking corrupted! He could do this! He made his way to the side and ran up some crates, using the height to jump over a tent. Dang, they were persistent though! More 'mon continued their pursuit, while others following him began to fall off. The Jumpluff and Miltank were both hit by the pulses and seemed to have been knocked out cold. The Gengar was hit directly as well. But in their places, half a dozen more 'mon came. The entire camp began to be alerted, with activity moving everywhere. From the Network Point locations, to the master tents, to the history tents, and relaxation tents. Everywhere was a mess, with many being burned, but at the same time many 'mon falling and killing on the plains. Revoll didn't appear to be anywhere in sight.

As Penance ran he let out a whistle, "Fliers! Find Revoll! Get his location out on the sky, now!" He demanded. A few avian Seekers caught up in the battles began to fly up. Some ended up being hit by attacks and quickly fell back to the earth. A few did manage to make it up top. All the while Penance fired Pulses behind him. "Take those points down! Asap! Get the psychics down!"

"I think I see him, Penance!" One Golbat Seeker called out from the sky. "He's travelling deeper into the camp, passed this area and into the north! Lot's a 'mon and guards with him... Oh shit I think I s-" The Golbat was suddenly shot from the sky by a series of attacks by Gabriel's forces. The entire camp was in chaos.

"If we go deeper in there, there's no way we'll be able to come out, Penance! Too deep in!" Another Seeker Luxray commented.

Penance had a good idea as to who the Goldbat was going to refer to. "... I have to." He said. "I brought you all here for a purpose. One prime one. We do this... and I don't care if we all die. Cause, in the end, we'll have helped more than possible." he began to rush toward the north, "On me! We take Revoll out! If we are remembered for anything, it's for this!" He shouted out. "This is your purpose! To stop these fiends from killing your family! From destroying your homes! Channel your anger!" He bellowed out. "Take out the Heracross!" He raced along, throwing a few pulses but keeping his energy in check. He would have to use everything for this final stroke.

The Seekers followed Penance deeper into Darkrai's camp. All around, fighting continued, with many of Darkrai's forces falling, but many Seekers also falling as well. The chaos helped mask Penance's pursuit, but many Darkrai forces attacked upon instinct, with a team of corphish stepping in, as well as two Purloin, a Tyrogue, and a Bastiodon charging at him and his group. A dozen other 'mon attack nearby at him and other Seekers.

A few Seekers were falling back, torn apart by the attacks as others continued to charge. Penance held out a hand as he grabbed at the charging Bastiodon with his mind and veered him off course, hitting him into a score of Darkrai's mon. "Keep going!" He shouted back. "We will remember that we continued to charge! We will not falter now! We're too deep in! It's all or nothing!"

The Bastiodon bulldozed through the 'mon, temporarily creating a path whereby Revoll was somewhat in sight, up ahead. The Heracross turned back momentarily to see his pursuers, before he turned around again and ran forward. Though from a distance, he could still be heard shouting "Protect me!"

"This is it!" Penance shouted back. "Don't hold back! This is what we were born to do! This is to protect your families! Your countries! Do not let him live!" He readied a larger Water Pulse and fired at the grou protecting Revoll. Following his were other ranged attacks as other Seekers were trampled by their pursurers and taken down one by one. Given their attention on Revoll over the other combatants, one could say it was like taking candy from a baby with how easy the Seekers were faltering.

Revoll's guard were quickly being decimated, but the Heracross remained upright, as many of them had elected to take attacks in place of the Heracross. He quickly snuck into one of the tents there in order to try and rid himself of his pursuers.

Penance wasn't going to be thrown off THAT easily. The moment he had laid his eyes on him the Golduck had not once taken his gaze away. His red orbs glared at the tent that he had taken shelter in and with a loud cry the duck threw out a psychic pulse. "Get out here, Revoll!" he screamed out. "Face me, now!"

There was silence only from the tent for the moment. Most of the remaining Seekers in the area were all facing off against Darkrai's forces around. But fighting was still ongoing in other areas. Slowly, the Heracross began to make his way out of the tent. His hands were above his head. "This is pointless, Penance," The Heracross began. "You've gone too deep in. You and your Seekers won't be able to leave now. You've sentenced them to death by your actions. You know that, don't you?"

The Golduck burst into laughter, "... You silly willy!" he said as he held out a hand, "I know that." Another psychic grip made itself known around Revoll's neck, "... I just hate to lose." With that, he jerked his fingers to snap the Heracross' neck. The Heracross once more began to gasp for his neck, trying to relieve the pressure. But he eventually succumb to it, and a large snap was suddenly heard. The Heracross fell to the ground, dead.

Penance looked at the dead body, frowning, "... Goodbye Revoll. Rest in peace." He looked over at the reign of chaos that continued around him. His Seekers were dying... and no doubt, he would be killed too. That caused him to smile to himself. He readied a Water Pulse in each hand as he waded back into combat. Flames were slowly being put out as little by little his Seeker forces were killed off. It wasn't perfect, but, at the same time, it felt right. It was just what was needed. They wouldn't get out of here. And he was fine with it. Before he knew he would have been so angry with himself. He knew he couldn't have done it. But... he oddly felt calm about it all as he saw those he knew fall to the hands of the enemy. Would this story ever get out? Nope. Would everyone think he was a cold hearted traitor till the end? Yes. But he didn't care about that anymore. He had come to do what needed to be done. In that way... he felt happy. Like a weight had been lifted off his chest. The Gold Tribe didn't NEED him. Not like Revoll was needed. This... was the end.
 

Beatruce - Now What?


"... so that's the whole story, as I've been told," Scar finished explaining through the Network Point to the gathered. Guardia stood in front of the machine, glancing at the Mienshao deep in thought, and in shock by what had took place.

"How is the other side reacting to this?" Guardia asked Scar curiously, still trying to grasp her head on the situation.

"Every since the news broke, there's been a lot of quiet on the war front in Valkaria," Scar explained. "A lot of the massive attacks on our major cities temporarily died down. There's still skirmishes going on in the countryside, but I think Darkrai is taking a moment to figure everything out. They just lost their master planner, their head General. This was a major blow to them," Scar explained.

"I see... any news on Penance?" Guardia asked again.

Scar merely shook his head. "None. No news, good or bad. As far as we know, though, him and his Seekers did not leave the camp."

Ever since their return about a day ago Obsidian had been rather busy planning their next move. From their trip into Tollen he had come back with more cuts on his body, as a result of some mon who he had to help take down. He was plenty lucky that they had James there, else he probably would have ended up as a Weavile pancake. Sure, Cal had also come along, but really he saw it more as James leading them on.".. It's like Penance." Obsidian muttered as he closed his eyes, "Go in, do something drastic to change things. I wouldn't be surprised that from the very moment he met Revoll in Tollen that he had been planning this. It's like him to think ten steps ahead. Judging by no one else stepping up so far, I guess it means that they have no one of Revoll's caliber there." He chuckled, "It means we push back. Right now, while they are flailing about and having to reorganize. We take advantage of the chaos."

"Keheh, well at least we have some pressure taken off of us." Snype said. He was at the least able to walk but he was still pretty stiff all around.

"It more than takes the pressure off," Thomas agreed. "Revoll has been the military mind behind much of Darkrai's attacks. With him out of the picture, this will be a huge blow to morale, and to their tactics. This is a big win."

"The Hypno's right," James added. "Your side just got a big win. Problem is, I don't think Darkrai's gonna take this sitting down."

"Did someone destroy his right-hand-'mon and all his chairs, too?" Razathiel snorted.

"Cute," James replied to the Ralts. "You must be fun at parties."

"I'm sure my party popularity will only increase when I decide to use you as a piñata. Call me 'cute' again and we'll see what falls out of you."

"I'm almost tempted," James retorted with a snort as he examined the smaller 'mon with his good eye. "But we've got bigger Magikarp to fry. My guess is, expect a retaliation soon."

Obsidian sighed, "But... we can use that as well." He started to explain. "Right now Darkrai is pissed, right?" He asked everyone. "He might very well go ahead and just straight up attack Valkaria, or try to attack the queen. I mean, what better way to squash hope than killing her, right? We use that as bait itself. Just hear me out here, but if wants retaliation he'll send the majority of his army our way, right? Or at least a sizable portion of it. That's our opening into Karn. While the soldiers attacking Karn are mostly drawn off a few of us head in and get to that temple."

"I'd rather not risk going into Karn separately," Guardia replied to Obsidian. "But I agree that we should head there next. Temples seem like a good place to start too. But before that, I have to make contact with the Emperor, and get us permission into the country. I won't risk sneaking."

"Right I'd say we all stick together the whole way through Karn. It isn't exactly the place you wanna be left alone in. My thieves have no influence there so I doubt my Ninjask would get far within Karn." Snype said.

Thomas nodded in agreement. "I agree, but I also agree with Obsidian. With such a momentous occasion happening, it seems almost foolish not to take advantage of it somehow. Perhaps we could at least relay the information back to General Warren and Scar in Gold City? See what they could do with it? Maybe they can press forward somewhere there?"

"It would be pretty silly to just sit idle while the enemy's been crushed like that. Kehehe!" Snype said. "Hell it even gives my thieves a bit of breathing room back in the forest if they're disorganized like that. Maybe they'll be able to step in and help fight a few of them off."

Guardia nodded. "Same goes for my tribe and the armies, gives us a breather. I'll send the message over to Scar and Warren, but is there anything in particular you guys could think of for us to do while we have this advantage? Any suggestions?"

Obsidian frowned at Guardia, "Well... Guardia, you're the one with experience here. You went through a war with Darkrai already. I would think if anyone here is more qualified to give suggestions, it would be you." He gave a meek shrug, "I mean, look around. Callimer, Thomas, and even Raz. We weren't all alive when Darkrai was around. Perhaps the closest to make suggestions would be James, just cause of his status and experience. So if anything, you two should be calling the shots here. We're so close, but one wrong, inexperienced move would ruin us. You always ask us every single time for suggestions, but how about you give us a suggestion. So, Gold Tribe leader, what should we do?"

Guardia looked around briefly and crossed her arms. "If it were me, I'd gather up forces wherever the other side's gained ground, and hit 'em where it hurts. While the enemy's lost their best leader, we can capitalize on that and gain back ground. At the same time, we'll be able to proceed to Karn without being bothered too much because the armies will be focusing on our large hit. But that's just me."

"And... where will that be?" Obsidian asked. "Put yourself in our shoes now. You're the one giving suggestions. Where do YOU, with all your experience, think the best part to strike is at? Knowing everything you do, having the information sent to you from all the countries, where should we hit them hard?"

"I'd have to talk to the other leaders, to see where we're hurting the most," Guardia stated. "But I'd say either in Tollen to the north, Karn's northern borders, or Valkaria around Eternity City. Maybe if we have enough troops, all three. Or we can hit Darkrai in Valkaria where he lives. Where their bases are at. Do some damage there. I'll talk to Scar more about it when I communicate. Point is, we should take advantage."
 

Loyalty - Surina, Beatruce


"Out for a little walk there, Guardia?" The familiar voice of Prime called out to the Zangoose as she walked along the beautiful riverbank of Surina.

Guardia turned and greeted Prime with a respectful nod and a small smile. "Hey, Prime. How are you?"

"Not bad, just roaming... taking in that news I heard," He answered as he crossed his arms and hummed a bit to himself.

"The Penance one?"

"Yeah," He answered. "You're right, I would do the same. That crazy bastard of yours gave you guys an opening. I'd use it."

"Thanks for the vote of confidence," Guardia stated with a smirk. "But I think with you Prime, everything's an opening," She chuckled.

Prime grinned. "That's cause you can find an opening in any situation!" He explained.

"Right," Guardia shook her head. She sighed deeply.

Prime glanced at her briefly and tilted his head. "You good?"

"I'm OK, just... worried about things a bit," She answered as she glanced along the riverbank. There were a few Pokemon traveling across the two sides of the city on the backs of water Pokemon. The water 'mon taxi was one of the ways Pokemon got across the river divide between the two halves of Surina. "Abel wasn't at the meeting," She finally answered again.

"No, he wasn't," Prime agreed with a slight frown.

"I'm worried about him, Prime," Guardia continued as she turned to the Hawlucha Gold Tribes'mon. "I've never seen him like this before. He's always been so stoic and steadfast and cold... he never let anything get to him. The others..."

"Hmm?"

"The others... well never mind," Guardia sighed.

"No, come on, you can tell me, sister," Prime urged.

"It's nothing it's just... you don't think Abel would go and do anything rash, do you?"

"Rash?" Prime repeated with a tilt of his head. "What do you mean by that?"

"Like... I don't know, Snype and Raz said that Gabriel was with Abel back in Mercurion," Guardia stated. "Does that mean anything? Should it?"

Prime blinked a few times and chuckled. "Hah... are you asking if Atrox would betray?"

"No... well... would he? I don't think he would. I always knew where his loyalties lie."

Prime inhaled through his nose sharply. "He just lost his entire world right now. His sister meant more to her than his own life. Few knew about that. But he opened up to me before about it. About how his real original reason for joining the tribe was so that he could always be around her to protect her. He was the one who originally raised her. He was always her guardian. You can only imagine how this would make him feel," Prime explained.

"But..." Prime continued. "Over the years, he did develop another love. The Gold Tribe. He may be cold, Guardia. He may be brash, rude, and heartless. But he's as true a Gold Tribe member as there's ever been. And there'll ever be. Mark my words!" He said forcefully.

Guardia glanced at Prime as he passionately spoke. The Hawlucha always did have a way about him. A fire burning deep inside him. It's one of the reasons she chose him to lead the Beatrucian Gold Tribe. She nodded at him. "I know... I always knew that. I just guess I had to have someone remind me of that."

Prime nodded. "Give him time. He'll be back. He always comes back."
 

Raz and Cythera - Sass Attack

Cythera sat in the library with a troubled look on her face. She couldn't get over what she'd seen at the meeting. She'd been fully aware there was a war in Valkaria, but the letters she recieved from her father didn't make it out to be anywhere near this bad. Enemies on all fronts of overwhelming size with plenty of 'mon in reserve, and all the allies her new teammates had been wasting time collecting couldn't even help? Not to mention their best, the Gold Tribe, going traitor. Then there was the way these 'mon, the ones who were going to find Cresselia and end this, looked just about ready to kill each other over how to send their mail.

Initially Cythera thought that between the Gold Tribe, the Alpha Alliance Army, and the academy's elite healers, all factions who's prowess she'd seen first hand, that Valkaria would be fine, but this was clearly not the case. She worried for her father, and to a lesser extent her mother. A short distance away was Rattles, Cythera's new assistant, who poured over the books in front of her without any worries at all, though it wasn't like the Ferrothorn could worry anyway. Cythera loved her emotions, but for just a second she envied the metal 'mon.

On a small table nestled between two bookcases sat Razathiel the Dreadmage, with extra cushions to pad the seat up to a reasonable height. Several books were laid out in front of him, most open, and scattered amongst them were various tools and measuring equipment, a couple of spoons, an assortment of crystals, berries, and most prominently, a Mega Stone.

Cythera recognized the badmouthed little Ralts, who Rattles explained was one of their fighters. Probably a child prodigy or something. "Hey," she began, turning to him. "Is it always like that? All bad news with a side of infighting?"

"Who-?" The wizard rounded on the Floette, looking none too pleased. For the moment he seemed more bewildered than outright livid, a single eyebrow raised as if to question Cythera's entire being. "It'll be all bad news for you in a moment if you don't provide a damn good reason for bothering me. What the bloody hell do you want? Make it snappy."

Cythera scowled at his response. "Whoa, who pissed in your cereal? I'm Cythera Hallas, healer extraordinaire and the one who's going to be keeping you alive when you're getting pummeled by the generals of Karn. You might wanna watch your tone a bit. I was wondering if this little group is always the mess it was at that meeting, but nevermind then."

"Pfft, healing?" Raz shut the book in his right hand and let it drop to the table with a thud. "So those golden morons had to hire an apothecary because they couldn't handle the heat. How pathetically quaint. And I'm to assume you have no idea who the bloody hell I am? It's fairly obvious, seeing as anyone who did - or anyone with even a smidgen of common sense - wouldn't have the gall to approach me in such an audaciously naive manner."

"Right, I don't know who you are. I think I heard them call you Raz, or Rants or something," Cythera began to float in an attempt to make herself look bigger. She didn't seem to appreciate her skills being talked down on. "But regardless, you people lost a handful against the Ferals, and very nearly lost more. All casualties I could have prevented, easily. I don't care if you're the strongest psychic on the planet, which I really, really doubt you are, but if your teammates die against those generals, I don't think you'll be having much luck against Darkrai on your own. In time, I'm sure you'll appreciate my abilities one way or another."

"Really?" Razathiel seemed more amused for the moment, having stored away his rage temporarily to resurface later. "People got killed by those brainless, walking corpses? That's ****ing hilarious- who kicked the bucket?"

"What?" Cythera was caught off guard by the Ralts' sudden shift in demeanor. She put her hand to her chin in thought. "I don't know, some of that Hawlucha's guys, I think. Or maybe they were the Dragonite's? Something about some Abel guy..." She'd heard about the battle at the Vantage from Cal when she was treating him, but she hadn't actually bothered to remember any of the details. "Whatever, the point is that people died."

"Yes, other people died somewhere else - and yet I remain completely unharmed. Funny, that," He waved away the thought, turning back to the desk to see if he could remember what page he was on. "Do what you want with those other poor saps. Heal them, tuck them in at night or whatever namby-pamby coddling they require, just don't expect any requests from me any time soon. And if you can bloody well help it, never affiliate me with the degenerate muppets who get murdered by puppets ever again," Raz paused momentarily. "Though if you happen upon any details on what happened and who to with that, I could use a good laugh. Evil laugh, rather. And try not to be such an arrogant prick while you're at it - that's coming from me, mind you."

The Floette stared at the Ralts for a few seconds, trying to figure out how such an arrogant prick managed to convince Guardia to let him come along, especially considering the hurdles she herself had to jump over while putting on a nice act and being overqualified in the first place.

"You never did tell me who you were," Cythera commented. She couldn't help but wonder if maybe he actually was a big deal, in which case growing closer to him could prove useful to her.

"I," Razathiel began, facing the Floette, before stopping himself with a grunt. "Oh, libraries expect a certain deal of subtlety, don't they? That's a bummer- a boring verbal introduction then: Razathiel the Dreadmage, evil sorcerer, esteemed psychic and this group's expert in Agent neutralisation. Terror to all things good and pure, unrivaled paragon of destruction - imagine if you will the necessary pyrotechnics, fanfare, etcetera, etcetera..." The wizard waved a hand, returning his eyes to the desk with a disgruntled, "Fear my unholy wrath."

"Right…" Cythera said after another bout of unsure staring. She certainly wasn't expecting any of that. Silence followed for several seconds before she said, "I'll leave you to your business with that shiny rock of yours for now, but sure, I'll let you know if I happen to hear anything about the dead guys." She looked back over at Rattles, who seemed absorbed in whatever book she was reading.

"Pfft, shiny rock..." Razathiel muttered to himself. "Very well, begone with you."
 

Guardia, Snype, Raz, Obsidian, Kaveri, Callimer, Cythera, James, and Thomas - The Revelation


"All packed up, then?" The familiar voice of Prime called from the doorway to Guardia's room. Guardia was busy packing up the last bit of her essentials. The group had stayed in Beatruce now for a grand total of almost three weeks. In the time, she had taken a much-needed break, aligning with Snype's recovery from using his Mega Stone. But now that he was mostly recovered, it was time to leave. They still had a mission to accomplish.

"Yeah, just about," Guardia responded with a smile. "I sure will miss it here. Always liked Beatruce. This is the only place we've been to so far where we haven't been treated like hostiles," She grinned.

"You know you and your people are always welcome here," Prime stated with a nod. "We owe ya everything now. Oh! And for the record, when time comes for us to hit Darkrai with our army, you can bet your ass me and the tribe will be there!"

Guardia grinned. "I know, Prime. Thanks."

"Hell, I'd go with ya now if the northern borders didn't need some securin'," Prime continued. "Darkrai's pressing in, even if Bastille's gone. Not as bad, at least. Plague's gone. But we still have to take the rest of our north back. It's why I should stay for now. Once it's done though... I'm coming."

Guardia nodded. She then proceeded to say something, but stopped. She fought with how to say the words a few times, but eventually managed to bring them out. "What about Atrox? Should he stay? Maybe that would be for the best?"

"Abel?" Prime repeated. The Hawlucha shook his head. "Nah, I say he goes with you. He saw this thing to this point. I figure he'd want to see it through to the end," He explained. Before Guardia could say anything to protest, Prime continued again. "He spoke briefly to me. He wants to come."

"Ah... well, I welcome his help, then," Guardia stated. She turned back to her room, then walked over to the window as she observed the beautiful port city of Surina. She sighed deeply. "Gonna miss this bit of peace... time to get back to the trenches."

Prime walked back over to Guardia and leaned on the window. "Tswhat we do best, ain't it?" He asked with another grin. Guardia grinned back at him, before the two gazed outside.

In the distance, something caught her eye. Something in the sky. Some sort of white, spherical energy. At first, she thought it was possibly a cloud, but it was moving far too fast. She then thought it may have been some comet or shooting star, but that didn't seem to be the case either. It was moving toward the ground, specifically, exactly in their direction. Prime caught sight of it too and cocked an eyebrow. "What the hell is th-"

The bright sphere crashed through the open window, with Prime and Guardia ducking just in time to avoid it. The sphere crashed and collided to the center of the room in a burst of energy. Smoke was all that remained from the sphere eventually, and Guardia coughed as she carefully walked through to see what had arrived. She was surprised to find a Pokemon. A familiar one.

"Wh- Vee?" Guardia called out to the familiar Victini in front of them.

"Gather everyone, quick!" Vee ordered.


It didn't take long to gather the group into one of Prime's conference rooms. There, Vee frantically paced as the 'mon awaited for everyone's arrival. Once they were all present, Guardia spoke up. "So what's this all about, Vee?"

"You've got some problems," Vee began. "Last you saw me, I had every intention of laying low and ducking out of everything. Looks like the world had other plans for me... I went to Tollen, per your request. Watched after Cresselia's vessel there."

"Don't tell me something happened to the Queen?!" Guardia snapped.

Vee shook its head. "No, she's fine. I made sure of that. In fact, nothing really happened for the longest time... nothing serious. Until... about a week ago. Ever since I heard news out of Darkrai's camp that his top general was killed. Gabriel didn't like that. He sent a few attacks our way. But he did something else too. Pieces started moving. Aggressive movements in the shadows. I think you saw a bit of that. Caught wind a few of you were in Tollen recently about that. Those 'mon looking for the Watcher."

"Yeah..." Guardia stated as she looked at James, Obsidian and Cal. "We had a few take care of them. Stop them in their tracks."

"I don't know about stopping them," Vee continued. "You might have delayed them for a bit but... there were others. In other nations. After Revoll fell, Gabriel became more serious about finding the Watcher. The result... he knows now."

"What!?" Thomas shouted out.

"****," Guardia cursed.

"You guys have to go and stop him," Vee stated to them. "He's got his Agents already on pursuit."

"How?" Guardia asked the Victini. "We don't even know where or who the Watcher is!"

Vee crossed its arms. "That's not entirely true, is it?" Vee questioned back. Razathiel, who had chosen to recline on a table nearby with a cup of chocolate milk, slurped his beverage obnoxiously and raised his eyebrows at the Zangoose.

"... What?" Guardia replied somewhat bewildered. The Ralts sorcerer frowned and slurped more disapprovingly through his straw at the Gold Tribe leader, but said nothing.

"So... someone among us knows then?" Obsidian snorted, "No wonder we're losing the bloody war. We're like a Torchic with our head cut off. We can't even trust each other! We would rather make it so we all die just so we can hold affirm in our paranoid beliefs that we are all out to kill each other!" He shook his head, "If we can't even trust each other... then what's the point of trying to get alliances? What's the point of lying to each other through our teeth?"

Snype crossed his arms and looked among the group and then back to Vee with a stern expression.

Guardia glanced at Obsidian after he was done speaking and nodded her head. "I agree with Obsidian. No one would have lied here on this scale to us. That's just way too important."

Razathiel began slurping again with renewed vigor.

"Call it whatever you want," Vee responded with a shrug. "But one of you know not only who the Watcher is, but where the Watcher is," The Victini explained. "I knew that ever since Anatellia. When I said that one of you were bonded to a legendary."

"Wait..." Thomas held up a hand. "Are you suggesting one of us is bonded to The Watcher?!"

Vee nodded. "And I didn't say anything before because I knew the two had a bond of secrecy. But now, that secret is out. So I'm going to give that 'mon a chance to tell you all himself. If he won't... then I will."

"...After all, not much point in keeping it secret if the very thing they entrusted to keep safe is in inevitable danger correct?" Snype stated. "It'd be stupid to keep it in the dark now. What benefit would we have just leaving her in danger?" Snype said crossing his arms. "If they really do care about the Watcher's safety above all else, they'll tell the truth. Straight and simple." Snype said.

Obisidan rubbed at his temples, "Just... I know Darkrai was looking for him... but why not at least tell us? If this guy really thought we were all working secretly for Darkrai then why even stay with us? Hell, if he thought we would skip over to Darkrai's side the moment he told us, then why did he join us? At the very least he could have said 'guess what, I know the Watcher, don't worry guys'." He snorted. "And after this? How can we trust he's not keeping anything else hidden?" He looked around, "Again, my point stands. If he couldn't trust any of us to tell us..... then how can we even trust each other? At this point all secrets should have been revealed. Are we really THAT paranoid of each other?"

"It's not that simple Obsidian." Snype simply stated. "It wasn't a matter if he felt his own allies would run over to Darkrai's side. It was a matter of keeping her very existence a secret. So that she wouldn't need to be involved in the first place. However it seems recent events have sped things up... now the Watcher is a prime target." Snype crossed his arms.

"That still doesn't mean we couldn't have known!" Guardia snapped back. "I still can't believe someone has been keeping a secret like this from us the whole time. Who the hell was it?!"

"Good Arceus Guardia... stop and think for a second. Celebi is the forest Guardian. Now tell me, what's the most mysterious, out of place forest that you can think of?" Snype said. "Seriously, did Darkrai really think to check Tollen first of all places? It's so obvious I'm surprised the secret has been kept so long. I'm sure she'd get a good laugh out of this one. Keheh."

".... You?" Guardia stared at Snype in a mixture of shock, confusion, and disbelief. Raz tilted his cup to get the last of the chocolate milk and began slurping again furiously.

Snype looked down to the floor. "Keh... you got it...." Snype said, a little disheartened now that he was finally going off and telling the truth here and now. "I figured Raz would have told you by now. I had to tell him in order to Mega Evolve you know? He was pretty insistent."

"I did but she had a stroke, or something," Razathiel commented. Guardia glanced at Raz for a brief moment, and connected the earlier conversation the two had a week earlier. She slightly blushed at her stupidity for thinking the subject of which was about Snype's feelings. However, this feeling slowly passed as she came to grips with the severity of the secret Snype had been hiding.

"Hold on," Cythera chimed in. "So you've known about all this for a while, right? But if the Watcher was never in Tollen, what was the point of sending all those guys over there to protect it? And why bother with all this tense build up, too?"

"Kehehe, I was hoping to throw Darkrai off with a resistance by Tollen. It'd seem pretty dang suspicious to have something so heavily protected eh? If I told them where Celebi was and Darkrai found out then they would certainly be dead. And what can I say? I like to be dramatic. I'm just baffled you all took so long to delve into it. When Vee mentioned one of us was bonded I was sure the whole team would be interrogated or something like that. Keheh." The Sableye prepared Detect just in case somebody wanted to overreact. "I made a bond of secrecy just as Vee said. I wasn't about to break that bond unless absolutely necessary. And now... well... you know. Penance had to go off and be a hero way too damn soon." Snype said.

"Hell I went out of my way to try and keep Raz from spewing it out but looks like that Master Plan was a waste of time. I had to do whatever I could to keep her a secret. I respect her too much to break that kind of promise." Snype explained.

From somewhere near one of the room's walls a huge snort only a dragon could make was heard. "Guys, we can discuss all this on the way, can't we? We've got to go. Like now, if we're going to do anything about this." Cal cut in, wings lightly waving in impatience.

"Cal's right." Snype interupted. "I'll explain whatever I have to on the way. We need to move right away." Snype said. He was surprised how well they were taking this but he figured after all of the shock was past, he was going to be hounded by about everyone in the group.

"... Fine, but we're talking about this when we get back," Guardia stated to Snype with an angry glare. "What's our entrance strategy? There's no Network Points in the Thieves Forest."

"I can port you guys nearby the forest, but not inside," Vee responded. "The Watcher doesn't let people port directly in."

Snype just stared back at Guardia intensely. He didn't have time to explain his case. Hopefully Celebi would be able to back him up a bit. "You'll have to stick with me if you have any hope of making it through the forest. And I'd prefer you keep lookout for anybody suspicious. If any of you lays a hand on her..." The Sableye looked down at his Mega Stone. He had a shiver in his spine at the thought of using it again in the event that harm would come to her. "Well, you won't. If you try anything, you'll never see the light outside of the forest again. I swear on my own life."

"Sounds like someone's pretty ****ing cranky," Razathiel let out, sitting up and sliding off the table. "Alright, let's blow this popsicle stand and see what **** the cowardly ****er's got themselves into. I assume you're accompanying us, Victini, because I bloody well expect it of you."

"You know it, this is too important for me to sit out," Vee answered with an affirmative nod. "We can't let Gabriel get the Watcher."

"Right..." The Sableye stared at Vee for a moment. "Weird question Vee but I need you to answer. What did I say to you before you left during our last meeting?" Snype asked.

"What you said to me?" Vee questioned as the Victini looked up to the sky to recall. "You asked me to keep an eye on Cresselia's vessel in the southern kingdom, which I did."

"Nono, after that. Just before you left the door." Snype asked again. "I don't mean to be paranoid but I need to make sure you're you. Just tell me anything goofy you remember from our last meeting. Last thing I need is to find out Darkrai recruited a Ditto or something crazy."

"Uh.. something stupid about smelling or something," Vee said with a shrug. "I don't really remember."

"Good enough for me." Snype said with a small laugh. "Honestly I figured you were the real deal but I can't be too careful when dealing with the watcher. If you remember something that dumb and out of place then I'm convinced. Kehe."

"i'm not going." Obsidian stated softly. "You.... you had the ability to know everything. The Watcher births all of the other guardians... you had the ability to know who Gabe was all along! You had the ability to know that Cresselia was going to be birthed any where! You had the ability to know where her pieces were! You could have known what powers Darkrai had, what form he had, and you did NOTHING! YOU DID F**K ALL! NO WARNING! NO HEADS UP! YOU KNOW HOW MANY OF MY ****ING FRIENDS DIED!? YOU COULD HAVE ****ING HELPED TO STOP ALL OF THIS **** FROM HAPPENING! YOU MOTHER OF A GOGOAT PIECE OF ROTTEN STINKING FILTH!" Obsidian screamed out at the top of his lungs. The Weavile panted a bit and angrily took off his pack and threw it to the ground, "You know how much Celebi could have helped!? Huh!? What the f**k Snype!?"

"Honestly I didn't even know she was the watcher until recently. When we found those books about the Guardians. I was pretty damn frantic. Keheh. That just made her secrecy all the more dire to keep. Now that Darkrai knows, well you know how it is." Snype said. "Obsidian if you want to know why I've worked so hard to keep this knowledge locked up in the depths of the thieves forest, you can go and ask her yourself. I only swore secrecy. Her reasons are her own. That kind of power doesn't belong to anyone. She wanted to remain uninvolved and now she's been forced into a corner." Snype stated calmly.

"Or, you can turn you can run from the problem again. To be fair? When I first became the king of thieves, that's all I wanted to do. Run from the problem and continue to regret it. The pressure made me... well..." Snype stared at Obsidian. "Kehehe... you're a mirror image of me ten years ago. And coincidentally, after my fallout, that's when I met Celebi and gained a more broad perspective of how I want to continue my ambition." Snype simply said.

Obsidian closed his eyes, his body shaking with rage. "So... she elects Darkrai to the position, is gleeful when we capture him and thinks she's off the hook, then when he comes back she decides not to do anything. Oh no, she decides to let every single mortal on this world die before she even gets touched. Gee, what a kind Watcher we have. I tell you this, Snype, if you do bring me along... I'm not sure if I'll hold back when I see her. Do you really want me to come along now?" He narrowed his eyes at the Sableye, "Karma is a bi**h, ain't it?" He looked away, "... I'll stay and do something elsewhere. Because... I want to protect this world still, and protect those being sacrificed so that legendaries can enjoy vacations in the forest, hiding from their mistakes. I want to make sure it lives on... because it's my home. Because I still have a few alive friends. So... yeah, go on to your Watcher who cowers and hopes that everyone else will put themselves before Gabe so that she can be safe. I have pokemon to save."

"Don't be an idiot, boy," James stated after Obsidian's rant. "Whatever you feel about him, if Gabriel gets the Watcher now, you won't have any friends to save to begin with. Let's go."

Obsidian grit his teeth, then began to walk away, "You guys go get her. Cause honestly I'll slice the bi**h's throat if I get a hold of her."

James shrugged. "Whatever," He called out. Guardia glanced at Obsidian. In a way, she sympathized with him. More than sympathized, she almost completely agreed with him. All this time, Snype had been keeping this big secret, after she continuously expressed the need to be straight up. But there was no time to lose. Whatever her feelings on it, they had to go help out the Watcher now. She knew one thing for sure, however: She wasn't likely to trust Snype ever again.

Kaveri dropped a paw on Snype's shoulder and leaned down to the Sableye's level. "I'm gonna admit, bud, this is a bit upsetting. But I get it, you were sworn to secrecy. Honestly, I would've done the same if I were in your position." After offering that little bit of support, she stood straight again and stood behind him, arms crossed over her chest.

"Thanks Kav... I don't think the others will understand until we see her though. I had every reason to keep this information hidden. I don't regret a thing." Snype replied.

Vee nodded and counted everyone in the group around. "Alright, gather around... we're going in deep. At the edge of the forest," Vee closed its eyes. "There's a lot of turbulence in the east now... looks like a city's being attacked. Likely a cover for this. Let's go!"
 
Even Secreter Secrets
Featuring Able and Razathiel - but in the past because it's a flashback​


As soon as morning hit, Able made it her first priority to talk with Raz. After being told by Snype that Raz knew of their big secret, she had to be absolutely sure the Ralts didn't open his big mouth to anyone. If they knew then Snype would be a dead Mon. As soon as she reached Raz's room, the Ninjask quickly knocked on his door. "Hey Raz! Snype wanted me to check on you!" Able shouted out. From behind the door came a series of groans and rustling, followed shortly by the voice of the small wizard.

"Yes, I know," He snapped. "As if I didn't get the idea the last hundred bloody times! One moment, blasted Ninjask..."

After yet more groaning and rustling, a few extra metallic clangs and what sounded like something falling over fairly drastically, Razathiel opened the door to his room looking none too amused.

The Ninjask slowly flew in. She was recovering from her own injuries but she wasn't going to simply sit still and do nothing! After all, she had an important job to do. "Well good morning to you too grumpy!" The Ninjask said, closing the door behind her. The Ninjask flew closer to Raz. "Alright so I'll just cut to the chase. The thing Snype told you about. Thoughts?"

"I'll be talking with him about it shortly. What business do you have with it? I'm in no mood for incessant badgering, so unless you have anything particularly important to bring to the table on the subject, I suggest you vacate this space before 'grumpy' decides that there's one too many Ninjask in the world."

"You'll have to hold off talking with him. Right now he's sharing a room with Cal. Unless you intend to drag the boss out of his bed, then you'll have to give him a good three weeks or so. I cannot stress how important it is you keep it a secret from everyone." Able said. "You can talk to Snype about it all you want when he's alone but till then, you'll have to deal with me if you got questions."

"Seeing as Callimer didn't appear to have used his Mega Stone, he should be up within a few days at most," Raz noted. "Even so, I'm only keeping my mouth shut about this on the assumption that I've misinterpreted Snype's words. If you've got answers to give me, then, well..." The Ralts paused to shrug. "I'd keep them in mind, because a few more people wanting them isn't entirely out of the question. Go ahead and warn Snype if you like... not like he's going anywhere. If this is as important as I get the impression it might be, though, I'm fairly certain you will be the one dealing with me. And likely the rest of the group, too."

"Raz. Don't you even dare." Able threatened. "Not yet at least. Especially with the possibility of the enemy listening in on our every move. Its one thing for the rest of the group to know, but Darkrai? If I didn't know better, then it makes sense Darkrai is preparing to search for the Watcher.... if he does find out the location... then we'll all have to act. Snype will have to spill the beans. You've already taken it pretty sour but everyone else... I don't know."

"I'm not saying to tell everyone in the bloody world," Razathiel rolled his eyes. "Secrets amongst allies breed discontent. If the intention was to keep people from being sour, perhaps telling people in the first place would have been a better idea."

Able shook her head. "You don't understand Raz. The Watcher doesn't want to be found. She trusts Snype to keep it a secret so that she remains hidden from the world. With Darkrai's actions though it's only a matter of time..." Able shook her head. "...Snype's going to have to tell everyone sooner or later. He can't protect her on his own. But he has to be the one to explain things. It's one thing to know about the Watcher's existence, hell we have a book about it, but the location is another matter."

"Oh no, the Watcher doesn't want to be found!" The Dreadmage whined mockingly. "**** the Watcher. I'm sick of all these legendary beings without any backbone. Hell, if the Guardians weren't all blithering cowards, we wouldn't be in this mess in the first place."

"I know I know... I've talked to Snype about it before but he's insistent on keeping her hidden." Able added. "He doesn't even know of everyone's opinion on the Watcher. Or he's worried Darkrai may track our group. I mean with the whole suspicion on Abel and James hanging with us it's even harder to go off and tell everyone."

"So they haven't been told," Raz murmured. "Arguably for the better. Who actually is clued in on this?"

"Just us two. And Snype of course." Able replied.

"Bloody hell. How long has he known?"

"I'd say a good... Ten years? Maybe more I wasn't told until later so I can't say. It was a few years after becoming the king." Able perched herself onto the side of the bed.

"Ugh," Raz groaned. "... Idiot. All right. I'll do him the favour of letting him be the one to explain it all, but he will be coming clean with this in some way or another. I can't say who exactly needs to know, but it sure as hell needs to be more than the three of us."

"To be fair, we only learned of Celebi being the Watcher recently. When we got those books on the guardians. You saw how Snype acted when he returned right? He was dedicated to keeping Celebi a secret but now that we know... Well..." Able shook her head. "Besides being the Watcher, Celebi has the ability to manipulate time itself. Imagine that power in the wrong hands."

"On the contrary," the Ralts countered. "Why not imagine that power in the right hands?"

"No." Able interupted. "Thinking like that is part of why she's a secret. Celebi doesn't wish to mess with time like that. The results would be catastrophic. Suddenly we'll start attempting to bring back the dead though time travel or something. It's complicated. I don't even know the full extent of the Watcher's power."

"I'm fairly sure the alternative is catastrophic as it is," the wizard scoffed. "Mega Stones can be abused in the wrong hands, too, but lo and behold, we're using them because the situation demands it. Who'd have thought? Oh, right. It's common sense. It's like the concepts of risk and reward or drastic times calling for drastic measures mean absolutely nothing to you bloody people."

"Its the Watcher's choice to remain out of the conflict in the beginning. But you are right. Snype may have to convince her otherwise..." Able said.

"I should bloody well hope he'll try, at the very least. It's the Watcher's choice to remain out of the conflict, all right - hide from the mess they let happen, and have mortal 'mon try to clean up their dirty work in the hopes of saving their own hides... despicable," Raz spat.

Able sighed. "Well... yes. That's basically what she wants. To stay out of outside affairs. With how things are going though, that'll change. When they first met, Snype formed a pact. Her protection, for the protection of the thieves forest. Ever wonder why the forest has never been penetrated? That's why. The whole forest is basically paused in a gigantic void in time. A fire? Simple rewind it and get everything back in shape. Somebody intruding? Trap them in an infinite time loop within the forest and run in circles."

"Yes, I gathered as much, thanks. Regardless, I'm fairly sure that this situation with Darkrai shouldn't count as 'outside affairs' to Celebi in the first place."

"Right. Honestly I'm all with you here... Snype may be considering the options. He's just afraid. It's already difficult enough to trust us." Able got up from the bed and began to fly toward the door. "I'm sure Snype will have better insight on this just be mindful. The topic of Celebi always stresses him."

"I'd be worried if it didn't. But whatever his fears or difficulties may be, the situation demands that he ignores them," Razathiel said sternly. "He had better have insight and be willing to share it, or I may well find myself quite violently unhappy."

"...Right." Able simply stated. "I'll try to talk to Snype about it too. If anything, we may have to visit the thieves forest when we get back."

"Perhaps."
 
Even Seceter Secrets Part 2
Raz and Snype

Razathiel rapped twice on the door with his staff before willing it open with a subtle wrist gesture. The Ralts couldn't help but feel a little guilty for not coming to see Snype sooner, or at the very least a little wary of what failure to visit the Sableye implied. Despite his reasons, as much as he may have tried to hide them from both others and himself, being so nonchalant about Snype's condition brought into question not only the strength of his alliance with the Sableye (acquaintanceship, friendship, co-worker pal status? Raz wasn't entirely sure), but also potential implications of carelessness toward his villainous assets. The King of Thieves was his minion, after all, and although minions don't generally bring to mind people of great importance, a minion is still far better kept alive to remain in the service of its master than left to die at the hands of the enemy. That was very simple villainous knowledge, and the undermining of his villainy was the last thing Razathiel wanted. The short wizard waddled his way into the room, flashing a grin at the Sableye before remembering that he was supposed to be angry, doing his best to quickly substitute in a disappointed scowl.

"So, I've heard you've been spreading a few too many rumours," the Ralts paused. "Or perhaps not quite enough rumours."

The Sableye blinked at Raz. "Uh... Kehe, rumors?" Snype asked.

"Sounds to me like word around town is big ol' Snype went and Mega Evolved to take out Bastille. You know, just Snype. Nobody else of note. Think I wouldn't notice? I ****ing thrive on my villainous reputation!"

"You know I can't be the one 'spreading rumors' if I'm stuck in bed. That's just how the people saw it. Nobody saw our battle in the tower, just me killing all of the ferals. Dunno what you want out of me." Snype replied plainly.

"Then you haven't been spreading enough rumours!" Raz exclaimed. "I did say it was either too many or not enough. Surely you could get your Ninjask network spreading a few good words about my involvement. Evil words, rather."

"Seriously Raz? They're busy enough getting the thieves back together and searching for any survivors. I'm flattered by the fame but I have to set my own priorities straight right now." Snype said.

"... Right, priorities," Razathiel sighed, hopping up onto the end of the Sableye's bed. He regarded Snype with a look of apprehension before taking a deep breath and continuing. "I'm not serious, Snype- well, actually, I am a bit serious, and if I try to spread word around that I was there for the fight and people don't believe me then I'll be pretty ****ing livid, but- well, the point stands that it's not the main reason I'm here. I think you should be well aware of what I'm here to talk to you about, right?" Raz questioned, tilting his head.

Snype blinked. "Keheh, yeah I got a pretty darn good feeling why you're here." The Sableye looked around the room cautiously. "So let's get this over with then."

"This secret of yours, Snype... it seems too important to just let it slide like this. I need something solid. A proper reason for me to stay silent. Being evil and all means my promises don't tend to hold much value."

Snype crossed his arms and just stared at Raz. "What you planning on telling Guardia or something? Keheh." Snype said with a wide smirk. "With recent events I guess keeping the secrecy isn't exactly a great idea, but I still have to play it careful. I promised that much anyway."

"Well, she'd probably be the first point of contact," The Ralts admitted. "But with her knowing, and the amount of importance this information holds, I doubt that anyone in this group would be all that kept in the dark about it."

"I made the promise to keep it a secret. If anybody else knows then that poses a risk of Darkrai learning about it as well. For as long as we've traveled, I don't trust anyone here to keep that sort of info contained. Imagine what Obsidian would do or hell, Abel? He might actually kill me. Kehehe... I don't want to take risks." Snype said.

"Ok, fair enough, **** those two, and James I guess and all those- but still, it needs to be taken into account when we're making such important tactical decisions. If you don't trust anyone to hold this kind of information, then why was Able told? Why was I told? Well, I know why I was told, but still, it's not like I've proven myself distrustful with this knowledge."

"I told you because I had to Mega Evolve. Able was on accident. Long story." Snype said. "We're already focusing on Karn, I don't need to make everyone panic and freak out on me out of nowhere. We need Karn's support anyways. And with the duel I set up between Cal and James? That'll be a quick easy way to not only save my funds, but also earn respect from Karn and pull them to our side."

"Alright, fine, maybe letting everyone know is a little overkill," Raz said with a roll of his eyes. "But we've still got to tell a few people. At the moment, too few of us know to be able to sway the crowd if it's an important decision. Who's to say anyone will freak out and panic on you, anyway? It's not like I did. If the focus actually needs to remain on Karn, then we'll still go to Karn."

"Ugh I know... but it's complicated. It isn't my call."

"Snype, you're dodging the question," The wizard sighed. "Is there any real reason why I can't just tell a single other member of the group?"

"Honestly? No. But I'm worried about what would happen on my end. I'm doing it out of simple respect." Snype stated firmly.

"**** respect," Razathiel spat. "It's cowardly, is what it is. It's trying to shift the consequences onto others, and I won't stand for it - especially if it doesn't even help anyone out all that much by keeping it from key members of this group."

"I know Raz. I've debated on it ever since we came to Beatruce. But I haven't exactly had that sort of freedom. If I'm going to tell anyone, then I'd rather do it myself."

"If you'd rather do it yourself, then do it," Raz grumbled. "The less this has to wait, the better. Frankly, a lot of 'mon should have been told far sooner. Do you really trust everyone in this group so little? How long would you have kept this a secret from me, given the choice?"

"Considering how long I watched you get tossed around by Bastille? I think that should give you a good idea how long I thought about it." Snype replied.

"Pssh, Bastille hardly scratched me," the Ralts dismissed the thought with a wave of his staff. "But for the record, I was asking how long it would have been a secret if you hadn't needed - or rather, wanted - to mega evolve."

"Honestly, I'd prefer nobody knew in the first place. I'd just stay silent as long as I'd damn well please."

"Agh," Raz grunted, flinging a psychic wave off to his left in frustration which knocked over a potted plant. "I can't believe after all this time, you've been so distrustful of all of us. Has telling me really been all that bad? Is it such a disaster to have key members of the group informed?"

"Keh, I'm actually surprised you even care in the first place Raz." Snype replied.

"It shouldn't be surprising at all," the Ralts snapped. "The more knowledgeable we all are, the better chances we have of beating the ever-loving **** out of Darkrai."

"You're really pushing me into a corner here Raz."

"That would be the intention. I do actually want a good answer out of you, you know. If I can at least just tell Guardia and see where it goes from there, I probably won't be bothering you about it again. Is there something else you're not telling me?"

"Celebi acts as a protector of thieves forest. I know Able at least informed you that much or you figured it out on your own. Keheh, honestly I'm surprised everyone hasn't thought of looking there first. If I break that pact, well, I don't know how Celebi will react if its all too sudden. Next thing you know she'll up and leave or get really darn mad at all of us. You know how all of those folks who wander in the forest disappear? That's Celebi. It's the only reason Darkrai hasn't touched the forest and I doubt he'll hit it anytime soon. I... well I'd have to discuss it with Celebi. We send letters back and forth to each other. We can't just rush over to Celebi's side or Darkrai will find her sooner rather than later."

"Yes, I'm aware of that. There are far subtler ways of going about this than simply rushing to the coward's side, and I certainly hope you didn't expect that of me. The point is that if enough of us know about this - rather, enough of the group, 'mon who can be trusted - then we can better influence decisions and take pressure away from the Watcher."

Snype rubbed his head. "Look I'm not saying you're wrong. The Watcher just doesn't see it that way. If I break her trust I don't know what could possibly happen. If my thieves are left abandoned then that would be a gigantic blow on my part. Me and the Watcher communicate through the Ninjask network. I can let her know the situation and see where it leads from there before we make these choices. Then it'll be the matter of explaining it to everyone else."

"Frankly, the Watcher doesn't even have to know. And on top of that, it honestly isn't out of the question, what with all the research we're doing, for us to have simply found out of our own accord. That shouldn't reflect on you unless the Watcher is going to be a complete dip**** and blame you for anyone else finding out regardless of the circumstances."

"I understand Raz. Really I do. Keeping this info withheld is only going to bite us in the ass in the future. And on top of that, I just now got a message recently saying she could be abducted in the near future. I'm not sure when or how, but I need to tread carefully. Any series of events could lead to this."

"So, if you understand... then there shouldn't be a problem. If anything could reasonably lead to Celebi being abducted, then the vision is just about useless and we should just continue with the most reasonable course of action, right?"

Snype gave off a deep sigh. "Argh blast it all. Fine maybe it would be a good idea to tell her..." Snype said, sounding defeated. "You're right. With everything going on, we need all the knowledge we can get... and knowing about the Watcher would help us a ton." Snype said with a shrug. "Tsk... fine. Go and tell Guardia. There isn't really much reason to keep secrets anymore."

"Ok, that's settled. Glad we could come to an agreement on this. I'll start with Guardia, if I feel like someone else should be told then I'll bring it up again. And I'll see if I can stop her from being too rash in telling others, if it comes to that..." The wizard shifted uncomfortably. "So, uh... yeah."

"Keheh, yeah that'd be for the best. I'd rather not have everyone up my ass when they realize what I've been holding back. Kehehe... so... anything else you need from me?" Snype asked.

"I don't... think so," Raz replied thoughtfully. "Is there anything you need from me?"

"Keheh, nah not really. I'd actually be more worried about Guardia rushing off to strangle me. She'd probably say something like 'Ohhh Snype needs to act more like an adult' Or 'We aren't high schoolers anymore' Or something like that. Keheh."

"Calm down, Snype, I haven't told her yet," Razathiel said with a grin.

"Keheh, fair enough just warning ya. Though I'm pretty sure you've taken more then a few hits from her already eh?" Snype said with a smirk.

"Define 'hits'," the Ralts grunted as he flopped down to a seated position.

"A punch to the face or two? Comon who hasn't heard of that? Keheh" Snype said with a small laugh.

"Still just the single, undeserved punch for now. I'll try to keep her off the violent path, but if worst comes to worst, then I'll at least bring popcorn," Raz hopped off the bed, but waddled over to look up at the Sableye. "How long until you're back up and running, do you think?"

"About two weeks or so I'd say. I can sorta move now but I shouldn't be walking around too much."

"Ouch. Alright, then. Don't hesitate to get one of your Ninjask minions to fetch me if you want, I don't think I'll be doing much," the wizard reached into his magic room and threw a couple of berries up onto Snype's face. "Later, minion!"

"Kehehe, later Raz." Snype said, quickly growing a smirk once he was gone. "Kehehe... and good luck telling that secret to Guardia... I'm not letting this slip past me that easily. I still have time to make this right." Snype quickly reached out to a nearby piece of paper and was quick to begin writing up a small letter. He had to figure out how to approach the Watcher situation. He couldn't risk having her captured by Darkrai but he couldn't throw her location out either.
​
 

Raz and Guardia - Miscommunication? - A flashback post


It occurred to Razathiel that out of all the members of the group he'd found himself in, Guardia was probably the easiest to find. He supposed that must have come with the occupation; with the Zangoose being so busy, there always seemed to be some kind of trail leading the way to her. The Ralts reckoned he could probably leave for upwards of a month and still find his way back just by following the trail of business the Gold Tribe leader left behind. After chatting with Snype about his secret and somehow managing to convince the Sableye that telling Guardia was the right thing to do, he found his way to her room in Prime's house and called out to her.

"Glah-dee-dah, I demand to speak with you immediately, this instant, lest this whole city face the destructive consequences!" Raz snapped, before adding: "Whenever you're ready, that is. Take your time."

Guardia peered out her room to see the familiar Ralts. The 'mon seemed rather insistent to speak with her. Knowing his reputation, she shuddered slightly at the thought of what this conversation could possibly entail. "What happened?" She asked, almost reflexively.

"Honestly, Guardia, is a social call completely out of the question?" Razathiel asked with a smirk.

"From you? I don't think so," Guardia replied as she crossed her arms. "What happened?" She repeated.

"Pfft, no nonsense, then, very well. May I come in, at least? If you're going to treat the situation with such gravity, I'd rather not have this conversation in a bloody hallway."

"Right, right," Guardia opened her door and gestured for the Ralts to come inside. "Come in."

"Huzzah," Raz exclaimed half-heartedly, waddling his way through the open door. "Okay, it's fairly important, and frankly I'd rather not have you go ballistic at a moment's notice, so you may want to take this news sitting down."

"Oh, Arceus, what did you do now?" Guardia muttered as she nervously wandered to a chair in the far side of her room and sat down. "Let's get this over with. What happened?" She asked a third time.

"Me? Oh, please, I've done nothing!" the wizard protested indignantly. "If it were something I'd done I'd be far more smug about it. No, this concerns our mutual ally Snype, King of Thieves, and our fight with Bastille back in Mercurion."

"Snype?" Guardia questioned as she tilted her head. "What did he do?"

"Well, he Mega Evolved during the fight, as I'm sure you're well aware," Razathiel began, hopping up onto the headboard of Guardia's bed. "But in order to do so, he had to get something off of his chest - a secret he's been keeping for quite a while now."

Guardia rolled her eyes at the answer. "Oh... that," She muttered and sighed. She recalled Snype's earlier conversation with her about his feelings. It made it that much more awkward because now she realized that Snype had to tell Raz about that too. "Yeah, I know. He told me."

"Erm... what?" Raz said, bewildered. "But he... what? What?"

"Yeah, I found out about it earlier," Guardia explained. "Well, Able told me, rather, not Snype."

"Ah. Well, fuck, that explains why he didn't know about you knowing," Raz tapped the bed with his staff thoughtfully. "What do you plan on doing about it?"

"What, are you serious?" Guardia asked incredulously. "Nothing. It's stupid."

"Are you kidding me? We can't just do nothing with information this important!"

Guardia opened her mouth wide, somewhat shocked by the ludicrousness of what just came out of Raz's mouth. "... Are you shitting me right now, Raz?"

"Are you?"

Guardia continued to stare blankly at the Ralts, before she smirked. "OK, I get it. This is a joke, right?"

"I... what?" Raz seemed legitimately confused. "I'm pretty sure we have to keep this kind of info in mind when we're making any sort of tactical decision. Do you at least plan on letting anyone else know who might actually treat this issue with the appropriate seriousness?"

If Guardia's jaw could have dropped any further down, it would have hit the floor. "... Are you completely out of your mind?! Tactical decision?! Appropriate seriousness?! Did Bastille hit you that hard in the head?!"

"You're taking this awfully seriously considering that you're not taking this seriously! Are you telling anyone else, or no?" the Ralts stopped himself. "And lower your voice, for evil's sake. We can't afford anyone untrustworthy hearing about this."

Guardia stared blankly at Raz. "Tell...! Tell anyone about this!? Have you lost your mind? Raz... this isn't a big deal. No, I'm not telling anyone about this. And neither should you. As far as I'm concerned, you should just forget Snype ever told you this. It's bullshit."

"Bullshit? This could be-!" Razathiel had to stop again to keep his voice in check. "This could be the key to taking down Darkrai, for crying out loud."

"The key to WHAT!?" Guardia yelled loudly. "This isn't funny anymore, Rants!"

"Guardia, calm down!" Raz hissed. "Honestly, can we just talk about this reasonably? I can understand if you're angry at Snype for this, but don't take it out on me."

"There's nothing reasonable about this!" Guardia shouted at Raz. "You're the one being unreasonable for bringing it up in the first place! You! Of all 'mon!"

"What is so unreasonable about me bringing this up?" Razathiel asked. "Even if you're ignoring the tactical importance this information holds, the fact still stands that this secret was stopping Snype from Mega Evolving. Telling me about it worked the one time, sure, but something tells me he still isn't all that at ease when it comes to this secret-keeping garbage."

Guardia sighed. "I mean, I guess I can understand it from that perspective," She mumbled. "I just can't believe something like this is the reason he was held back. It's just so stupid."

"Frankly, it should have been brought up long ago," the wizard said with a roll of his eyes, glad that the Zangoose seemed to have calmed down. "Especially with how much it's supposedly bothering him. The question is, if you're ignoring the whole tactical importance aspect - which I will not be doing, thanks - how should we plan on doing anything about the trouble it's causing Snype? I'd rather not have that Mega Stone so agonisingly out of reach."

"I just can't believe THIS of all things is what's bothering him... holding him back," Guardia snorted. "He's a damn chump. I don't know... I guess I can talk to him about it. What else can I do?"

"It is a bit silly of him, I agree. If you actually want to do anything about it, for a start, we can decide who else to tell. The four who know at the moment are all well and good, but I'd rather be safe in having enough informed 'mon to sway group decisions."

"We're not telling anyone else," Guardia answered immediately. "I'd rather not have to share this shit with anyone else. It's completely ridiculous to share."

"I mean," Raz shrugged. "Snype did say he'd probably be forced to share it with everyone sooner or later, but fine. If you think four is enough, then so be it."

"What? He said that?!" Guardia yelled in response to Raz's statement. "Why the hell would he ever have to share it with everyone!?"

"Remember," the Ralts warned. "Don't kill the messenger. I assume just because the group is doing research into it, or maybe just proximity to Snype or something. Or having to Mega Evolve again or whatever."

"Res- what? Research? Research?!" Guardia repeated in disbelief.

"Y-yes...?" Razathiel replied, confused, one brow so highly raised it was almost as if his eyes were no longer aligned. "The books we found! Pretty sure you read them, too."

"Boo-" Guardia tilted her head. "OK, you know what? Just go. I can't listen to this nonsense anymore."

"Really?" Raz tilted his head. "It's not nonsense just because you've apparently had a stroke all of a sudden. What is it about this that fucking bothers you so much?"

"Is that a serious question?" Guardia retorted with a hint of annoyance. "Stop acting like an idiot, you know how this affects me!"

"I really don't. It affects you no more than it affects me."

Guardia paused for a moment in silence. After a few seconds of glaring down the Ralts, she shook her head. "You're insane. We're done here."

"My insanity ship has already sailed," Raz snapped. "But that's no reason for you to go on a fucking maiden voyage. What's wrong with you?"

"You are right now!" Guardia yelled as she gestured toward the door. "Just go! I'll talk to Snype later sometime... go!"

"You- mmmmgh," the wizard held in his rage, hopping down from the bed. "You really need to start thinking straight, Guardia. This is fucking absurd."

"That's my line!"

"You can't take that line! Fuck you!"

"Just GET OUT!" Guardia roared again.

"Graaagh!" Razathiel reached out with psychic to pull the door open, nearly breaking it off its hinges. He stomped over to it before flinching and turning around suddenly. "Wait a fucking second, were we actually talking about the same thing?"

Without answering, Guardia stormed toward the door, and slammed it in the Ralt's face with a loud bang.

"Well alright then, fine!" Raz shouted at the closed door, giving it a wham with his staff. "Dear diary! Today I met a stroke victim! They were a fucking cretinous imbecile! Perhaps the next time I see them they'll have realised how astronomically dense they were being! Long story short: STUPID!" The Ralts finished with perhaps the loudest and longest raspberry he'd ever blown in his life before storming off, slightly out of breath.
 
The Spirit of the Forest- Part 1
​

Ten years ago, Snype had managed to establish his position as the King of Thieves. While many of his thieves of course disagreed with him taking this position after his part in killing the previous king, The Sableye had proven his ability to be a proper leader for the thieves.He still has to make sure that every thief was on the same page as him. They wouldn't just be a crime syndicate, but they would act as silent guardians to make sure a second Silver War wouldn't begin. And more importantly, prepare for the possibility of Darkrai's return. Between expanding his band of thieves and preparing their tunnel systems and bars within the major citys, Snype spent most of his free time researching the forest in an attempt to map it out and understand how exactly it defended the thieves for so long. The stories said it was alive... to Snype however, something just felt off about that theory.

It only struck Snype that something else was at work behind the scenes when he lost himself within the forest. He had been walking in circles attempting to make it out or back to his base within the forest, only to find out he had been walking in circles for a good six hours or so. He consistantly made marks among various trees and on the ground but somehow he always ended up in a different part of the forest, or those tracking marks would just seemingly dissapear. Snype wrote every out of place event into his notepad, hoping to put two and two together.

"Gah... six hours... I've tried walking straight ahead, backwards, but even though I've gone through the same route I always have I keep ending up nowhere..." Snype panted heavily and sat by one of the larger trees, feeling exhausted. "I don't know what this forest's deal is... I just want to get back home. Ugh... the thieves are probably worried sick. I should have returned four hours ago." The Sableye just gave off a sigh and looked up at the sky... or whatever the forest wasn't covering. The Sableye unfortunately didn't bring any food along with him. He didn't think of the possibility of being trapped within the forest like this. What did going back and forth through the same place have to do with being alive? "It's like being thrown around time and space... gah... there has to be a better way to figure this out. Hmm..." Snype looked at the tree he was leaning up against and looked up. "Well... if I can't walk through the forest... maybe I can get through the top? Keheh!" Snype said with a wide smirk. The Sableye clung onto the tree and began to scale his way up top. Suddenly, as he began to climb it, the tree lunged forward, as if it were falling over, causing Snype to hang sideways off of it.

"Woah woah WOAH!" Snype clung desperately as the tree began to lean towards him. "H...how? No... I have to see just how far this can go." Snype said as he attempted to climb to the top, despite how it was leaning. He had to figure out the cause of these phenomenons. Once more, the tree bent further down, as if it was determined to knock the Sableye off. It was now leaning completely sideways instead of vertically. From somewhere nearby, a dark giggling was heard.

Snype caught on to the giggling and attempted to climb to the other side of the tree. Just so he could get higher ground at least. "W-who's there?!" Snype called out.

"I... am the spirit of the forest," The voice answered ominously. "A forest YOU tried to burn down!" It bellowed.

"W...b..but... That was..." The sableye felt a chill run down his spine. I... I didn't have a choice! They would have killed me for sure! I...I..."

"Excuses!" The voice cried. "All I hear is excuses! You're nothing but a spineless fool!"

"I... I have to save myself... I..." Snype got down from The tree and landed on the ground. His first thought was running but he didn't budge an inch. "...they were doomed from the start... T...they didn't listen... No..." Snype fell backwards, searching his surroundings for the source of the voice.

"So I'm finally being punished for my acts... Is that it?"

"Get on your knees and beg for you life!" The voice commanded of Snype, though a flurry of giggles seemed to follow.

The Sableye gulped and did just that, instantly on command. On his knees, just silent. "..."

"I don't hear... hahahah begging!"

Snype was being toyed with. Rightfully so. He knew he had this coming for a long time now. "I'm sorry... " He muttered quietly. "Who am I kidding? I deserve whatever punishment you're about to throw at me! I helped kill the King of Thieves! I helped the Silver Tribe burn the forest and guided them through! Who knows how many I killed during the Silver War... what reason do I have to beg?" Snype shouted out desperately. "I'm not fit to beg for my life. If you're going to punish me then go ahead... the thieves could care less if a traitor suddenly lost the crown. They already spoke loud and clear on that." Snype said. He had only recently gotten out of a scuffle with his own thieves, questioning his position as the king.

There was silence from the other side, no immediate response. However, after a few more second, a voice spoke, though it wasn't quite the ominous one from before. It was more soft, and high-pitched. Like a child's, or a females. "... Wow, well, there goes that. Uh... you can go, I didn't wanna make you sad. Geez."

Snype looked up at the sudden shift of voice and turned down to the floor. "No you're right. The fact I became the king after all I did is kind of despicable. I wanted this position forever and finally I snagged the opportunity to change things and well, here I am, on the verge of being ran out of my own home. Even after all I've attempted to do." Snype said with a sigh. "Wait... but... who are you? I know this forest was alive and all but... the spirit of the forest?" Snype wondered aloud.

"I don't really know about any of that..." The voice said, before a 'mon appeared from up above Snype. The 'mon was covered in a dark cloak that masked their appearance. "Just that!" The voice exclaimed. "I am the spirit of the forest! It's protector and guardian."

The Sableye just stared at the cloaked mon, observing it up and down. For a spirit guardian it was certaintly smaller then he expected... and a female on top of that. He seemed a bit awe struck. "Keheh, I'm sure theres more to the story then that." Snype said, crossing his arms and showing off that big ol toothy grin of his.

"There always is," The cloaked 'mon responded. "But nothing I'd share with you!" She exclaimed as she stuck out her tongue. "Wait, unless... you say you're the new King? So Ralph is gone?"

"Yes... it was during the Silver War. The idiot decided to side with them and ultimately ended up being killed, along with several other thieves. If I didn't side with the silver tribe I'd have been killed as well. I didn't have a chance against those monsters." Snype said, crossing his arms.

The cloaked 'mon tilted her head. "What's a silver war? Did you guys fight over how much of the color silver you liked?"

"Y-you don't know? They were the ones that burned down the forest the first time! I led them through the forest and well, you know... but... wow you don't know about it huh? Keheh... I guess I could tell you the whole story..." Snype said with a wide smirk.

"Nah, I don't wanna hear about a color war, sounds boring!" The 'mon whined as she lowered herself onto a branch closer to the Sableye. "Besides, I don't wanna hear about the mean people who burned my home! But you're the King of Thieves, right? You must have some cool stories to tell!"

"...Did you know the previous king of thieves? I mean. sure I could tell you a couple stories. Kehe. Every days exciting when your me! Kehe" Snype said.

"Yeah, Ralph and I had an agreement," The 'mon stated with a nod. "But we weren't really friends. He kinda just left me alone. I definitely liked the others better. Tell me a story, then! I wanna hear an exciting one!"

"Okay okay! Kehehe! Just because I'm starting to like ya though!" Snype said as he hopped up to the branch beside the cloaked mon. "Alright! I got two stories for ya! You can pick one! You wanna hear a funny story or an epic one?" Snype asked.

"I wanna hear a funny-epic story!" The 'mon replied assertively. "Make it both!"

"Ohhhh congrats! You found the hidden third option! I'll make it a good one then!" Snype said with a small laugh. "Allllright! This was a small hiest we pulled off back in Gold City... ohh that was one heck of a day! Kehehehe!"

The 'mon lowered onto a branch one even closer to the ground. "What's gold city?" The 'mon asked in wonderment. "Is it some special city made of gold?"

"Kehehe! Oh I wish! I'd be trying to steal the entire thing and fit it near the forest then!" Snype joked. "It's the central power in Valkaria... it actually isn't too far off from the thieves forest actually. My old friend Lyn... er... or Guardia is the leader of the Gold Tribe there."

"What's Valkaria? What's the Gold Tribe?" The 'mon asked curiously.

Snype just blinked and stared at the hooded figure for a moment. "The gold tribe is one thing but... Valkaria? Geez Ralph must have really left you in the dark..." Snype looked around the forest and over to her. "Keheh, ya might wanna sit closer, I got alooottt to talk about then. I don't bite I promise." Snype winked.

The 'mon didn't move. Instead, she followed up with more. "Ralph didn't really talk to me much, like I said. He wasn't like the others. He wasn't like Mark. And he DEFINITELY wasn't like Arnold. Are these real places?"

The Sableye nodded to her. "Oh yeah! Like I said, Gold City isn't too far from here, and Valkaria is the country we live in. Its also where most of my little adventures have taken place. Kehehe."

The 'mon held up a hand. "Don't tell me about them then. Don't tell me the names. I wanna hear the stories! No names, no places. People are OK. And don't tell me if they're real or not!" The 'mon demanded.

Snype blinked. "...if I do, could you do me a favor then The fact you know Arnold is... interesting. I'd love to learn more about the other kings." Snype said with a smile.

The 'mon was silent for a moment, before gliding over to where the Sableye was and stopped right in front of me. "You tell me stories about adventures and fun and epic stuff, and I'll tell you stories about my friends, then! That'll be our agreement!" The 'mon stated as she extended her arm from her cloak. "OK?"

"...kehe, it's a deal!" Snype said as he reached out and held onto her hand. As he did so, Snype was suddenly overcome with a strange sensation. All across, he felt himself feel disconnected, as if he were suddenly thrust into an empty space, and nothing around could be felt. Everything felt silent, black and distant. However, from this strangeness, he could feel a sort of presence resonating from the 'mon in front of him. Her heartbeat, her energy, he could feel it all as if it were part of himself.

"Ah! W...wha...what's going on?" Snype shouted, unsure of what to think of the sudden feeling going through his body. The Sableye looked down at the figures hand and back to her. "Who... are you?" He said as he tried to inspect the hand he was holding for some kind of clue at least.

The 'mon in front of him let go of Snype's hand and backed up a few steps. She giggled from under her cloak. "The spirit of the forest," She replied. "Now, tell me a story!"

"I... er... w...what just happened back there?" Snype said as if he just got out of a trance.

The 'mon giggled again. "That's a story for another time."

Snype just stared again and gave off a playful laugh. "Kehehe... well played. I like you. Alright story time it is!" Snype said cheerfully. He remembered he had to go for a more fictional setting now... or at least, not give off the name of a location as far as she knew at least. "So like I said, me and my band of thieves were planning a small heist... it honestly was just going to be a small robbery inside of a hidden vault. Funds were getting kinda low after all! Being the king, I of course went after the bigger game on my own... didn't want to attract too much attention after all! My other thieves were busy distracting the guards to make a big enough opening for me to enter...." The Sableye paused a moment.

"But little did I know they were beginning to catch on! As soon as a snagged what I came for, the alarms began to sound! I was the only thief in the building and every guard inside was heading in my direction!"

"How many guards were there?" The 'mon in the cloak asked in excitement.

"Kehehe! A good twenty! I dunno I lost count while I was in there! It was a pretty dang tight spot! Had me surrounded in a matter of seconds! Keheh!" Snype said with a confident grin. "So I bet your wondering, "Gee! How did this sly Sableye get out of that one?" The 'mon nodded her head up and down as she listened eagerly. "Keheh! Well I did the most classic trick in my book to start off! I used Flash to give off a bright shine from my eyes and blind the group of guards! Making a swift getaway out the door! But it didn't end there! I had a good twenty more waiting outside ready to give chase! Of course I couldn't just flash them again! I had to make a dash for it or risk the end of the thieves for good! Kehehe!" Snype said with a small laugh. The Sableye used Shadow Sneak to suddenly dissapear and reappear on the other side of the hooded mon. "Luck for me, I had Shadow Sneak to get an edge on them and make my getaway! Now I almost made it outside... a simple heist with plenty of loot to go around! But there was one small problem... kehe!" Snype gave off a long pause.

"I forgot the loot! Ahaha! All that running and I left everything back at the inner vault of loot. Kehe!" Snype said with a long laugh.

The 'mon giggled in return. "What happened next?"

"Keheh, well I'm not just gonna go off and leave it am I? SO you know what I did? I ran back! The guards just stared at me in confusion when I ran the opposite direction and I just simply slipped back through! Mind you I didn't attack any of them! Kehehe! Of course, the vault was even more heavily guarded then before so I had to hide somewhere temporarily! Being the small slippery bastard I was, I climbed right up into the ceiling and into one of the vents up above. Course, nobody could reach me up there unless they wanted to tear the whole vault to pieces so I kinda camped around there temporarily to plan my next move! Kehehe!" Snype caught his breath for a moment and plotted up where to take his story next. He needed a way to throw in the use of his own charm in there! "So... I camped out in the vents and crawled through them for a good thrity minutes or so. The entire building was on high alert! I couldn't just break through on my own... I was going to need a bit of help! Lucky for me I still had my secret weapon... kehehe! Wanna make a guess what it is?" Snype said, leaning closer with an eager smile. The storytelling thing was actually darn fun for the Sableye surprisingly! Even if he was exagerating the story.

"What was it?" The 'mon asked curiously.

"Kehehe, my own wit and charm! I only break that out when I absolutely need to! Don't want every mon in the block calling for it! Kehehe! So after I crawled through the ventilation, I happened to land on one of the guards. How unlucky of me! On top of that it was an Azumaril! They really pack a punch on little up me! Thankfully I had just the move to deal with her. One well placed attract and a bit of smooth talking was all it took to get her in my side. Kehe I'll spare the details of the smooth talking bit."

The 'mon giggled, seemingly so entertained by the story the King of Thieves was telling. "That's so great! You seem like you have such great stories! I wish I could be apart of them..." The 'mon mumbled.

"Kehehe! You want me to throw you in on my adventures? Maybe as my ever reliable sidekick eh? Kehehe!" Snype said.

The cloaked 'mon giggled once more, than shook her head with a sigh. "Thanks, but I can't. For now, I'll just stick to your stories!"

Snype said with a grin. "Awww! Well suit yourself. I'll leave the offer there jussttt incase!" Snype said with a small wink. "Now where was I... oh yeah! After swooning her with my lovely charms, she managed to sneak me right back into the vault to snag the loot that I had oh so carelessly forgotten! Kehehe! She was in that trance for good long while infact! So I did what any good king of thieves would do before making a dash out. I smooched her right on the cheek and made my way past the guards! Kehehe! Classic king of thieves antics! Kehehe!"

The cloaked 'mon shook her head and chuckled. "I dunno about classic King of Thieves, all you are so different! But you definitely have a crazy life!"

"Keheheh... crazy isnt even the half of it..." Snype said, going silent for a moment as he recalled the silver war. "...Kehehe, but yeah! Now its your turn! Tell me somethin about the other kings!... I mean... I'd just like to know how they were. Maybe it would help me figure out what else I should aim for as the king..."

The cloacked 'mon put a hand to her chin under the hood and hummed thoughtfully. "Hmmm... OK! Who should I tell you about?" She asked both as a question to herself and Snype. "There are so many... and they're all so different!"

"How about Arnold first? I don't know a whole lot about him actually... Just small stories. Probly history made by the gold tribe or something. Keheh. I'm curious about what it was like back then." Snype asked.

"Ah, Arnold!" The cloaked 'mon exclaimed happily. "Never was one like Arnold! To tell you the truth, I never knew he was ever a King of Thieves! I guess... well, maybe he wasn't. He always said that's what everyone else called him. But he never was the one to brag about it... yeah, there was never another like Arnold, that's for sure. He was..." The 'mon smiled. "Kind. Thoughtful. Self-less. He was the kind of 'mon that would have gladly given up every piece of himself to save his friends and followers. I didn't find out about just how great he was until after he died, when other Kings started telling me about him. How he single-handedly challenged a country. How he made a life for himself and those like him. Not once did I hear anything about that from him. He was just... he was a great friend," The cloaked 'mon sighed.

"Single-handedly challanged a country? Made a life for himself and the other thieves..." Snype rubbed his chin. "...I've wanted to aim for something like that myself. Infact, I just recently made a move to expand our group outside of this forest into other countrys... the thieves are just wary of me because of what I did in the silver war.... not just with the previous king... just... I dunno..." Snype said, crossing his arms.

The cloaked 'mon motioned with her hands for Snype to stop talking. "No, don't tell me! I don't wanna know!" She exclaimed.

Snype raised a brow at her. "W-wha? What the war or the thief stuff?"

"Both! Neither!" The 'mon squeaked. "Don't tell me anything about what's happening around the world, or anything you're doing! Just... anything! If you have to, just tell me stories. But don't tell me they're real!" She snapped.

Snype stared at the robed mon curiously. "...Why though? I know the outside world is scary for what it is but I could tell you alot of interesting stuff about it if you'd let me. Give me a chance!" Snype asked.

"No!" The 'mon replied forcefully. "Don't tell me anything! If you tell me anything, I'll just break our agreement and you can never seem me again! That's fine by me!"

I...I..." Snype just seemed to sigh at that. "Alright fine fine I'll keep quiet about what's going on out there...we just met and all. Don't wanna get you uncomfortable. Kehehe" Snype said with a grin. "Sorry about that."

"Good," The 'mon stated with a nod. "What's your name?"

"O-oh! I wow we've talked all this time and I never introduced myself... kehe." The Sableye stood up on his feet and gave off a small bow. "I'm Snype. Juussttttt Snype. Kehe! And honor to meet you... uhh..." Snype paused, expecting to hear the spirit's name.

"Snype?" The 'mon repeated. "Snype... Snype! Got it! I'll remember that," She stated as she began to get up from her spot slowly. "For next time," She turned and glided over to a nearby branch.

"H-huh? Y-you're leaving?" Snype said in surprise.

"For now," The 'mon stated with a nod. "I'll find you again next time, Snype. Have another story ready for me!"

The Sableye gave off a small smile. "Keheh, will do! Any chance I'll ever get to know your name? No rush. Kehe. I like a gal with secrets." The Sableye said with a small wink.

"I don't have one," The 'mon replied from the branch. "Bye!" She yelled back, and jumped up into the trees, vanishing among the leaves.

The Sableye just stared up in the air for awhile trying to grasp what he just went through. More importantly the buisness when he held her hand. What on earth happened? It was iike he made some form of connection... "...kehehe... well so much for the forest. I need to learn more about her. Keheh... looks like I'll be busy." Snype said with a wide grin. "Uh... shoot... er... how do I get out of here again?"
 

The Thieves Forest - The Watcher


After a brilliant flash of light, the group appeared in a new location. In front of Guardia's eyes were the familiar large trunks of the beginnings of the Thieves Forest she had seen countless times. She looked around to make sure. The plains were behind her, as far as the eye could see. To the north, she could make out the signs of the Korhal Mountains. Yes, this was her home. She was back in Valkaria. She looked around more to the west. A large amoSnypeunt of flashes of light and a steady stream of smoke rose from the direction of Albia, the closest city to the Thieves Forest. It looked terrible. She can only imagine the horrors that were occurring there.

"... Any news on how Albia is doing, Vee?" Guardia asked worriedly.

"I picked up a bit," Vee responded. "They're being bombarded but... the other side's more brute force and reckless at the moment than tact. Losing Revoll a few weeks back threw off a lot of their strategy. They're holding... for now."

Guardia nodded and closed her eyes. She glanced back at the forest.

"Its been awhile... Keh. As much as I want to check on everyone, we need to move quick. There's no specific route through the forest, its just a matter of willpower and it all comes down to if Celebi will let us in." Snype explained as he began to walk into the forest.

"You all know the stories of this forest being alive right? Well... Its not entirely true. For all I know this forest could have been dead for centuries. The entire forest exists in one gigantic void in time. Celebi simply controls how time passes here. Hence how it survived the Silver War. Kehehe... Its also why the forest is basically impenetrable. If you end up outside of the forest, then its due to Celebi sending you through one of the time loops within the forest."

"Floette have always been connected with plant life, but I thought this place felt off," commented Cythera as she adjusted herself on Rattles' back. "I guess that explains that."

"That kinda explains why every time it's been burned, the forest was somehow OK..." Guardia muttered. "Even when the thieves were destroyed during the Silver War, and I thought the forest burned, somehow it survived..."

"Fascinating," Thomas exclaimed as he admired the trees. "We were always taught as young 'mon to stay away from the forest, that the evil of the thieves have tainted it to be cursed. Perhaps, from a certain perspective, there is some merit to that," He chuckled lightly.

"Can we just go already?" Abel called out from behind Guardia. The Zangoose turned to glance at Abel. It was the first words from the Medicham in a while. She was somewhat surprised, forgetting that he was here to begin with.

Snype almost forgot Abel was with them also. In light of recent events, he had to make sure Abel didn't do anything brash. Despite his situation, he had to be careful with everybody he was bringing along. "It's also why nobody can get through. Even if Darkrai's troops attempted to invade they would either be trapped within the forest or given the boot. It'd be a wild goose chase. Keheheh... makes for a hell of a hideout." Snype said as he continued through the forest, making sure everyone kept close.

"She never traps them forever though! Cel isn't cruel like that!" Able commented cheerily.

"Able! Now they'll be on you about this whole business." Snype shot back.

"I don't care! I can't let you be the only one taking the hit boss! It wouldn't be right! If Cel has a problem with what we're doing I'll help back you up!" Able said.

"I don't give two shits who knows at this point," Guardia snapped. "That's something we'll handle later. All I care about is finding Celebi before Gabriel does. Then we'll worry about the rest. How do we find her?" She asked Snype and Able.

"There's three ways. Either you gotta be damn lucky, be bonded with her, or she has to know in advance. Since I'm bonded, I can sense her presence, especially if I'm close. No doubt she'll sense me as well... comon, its not too much further." Snype said as he continued to lead the group. He knew that Celebi's location wasn't too far away from the thieves hideout within the forest. It at least made it easy to get there but at the same time it made it a little more difficult to keep the secret away from his fellow thieves.

"Pardon me," Razathiel spoke up. "But is it really necessary for everyone here to come along? Also, is there a bin somewhere?"

"I figure if we are going up against potential Agents and possibly Darkrai himself, we should have as many warriors as possible, no?" Thomas asked. "Why, who would you leave behind?"

"Well, fucking Turncoats McGee for starters," the wizard snapped, pointing to James.

"Yeah, by all means, send your strongest off before you fight Gabriel and the other Agents. That's a smart call," James retorted sarcastically. He shrugged and looked at Snype. "Your call."

"He's sticking with us. I'm wary about everyone I'm bringing along but if anyone tries anything then I mean what I said. It'll be a long trip back home. If I wanted to I could lead one of you into one of the loops in this forest and leave you stranded." Snype shot back.

"Well, fuck me and any and all logical reasoning, then," Raz muttered. "Any news on that bloody bin? And minion; quit being edgy, it doesn't suit you. I'm the threat-master, here."

"I'll do everything in my power to make sure nobody important gets hurt," Cythera told Snype. "I'm sure if anything does happen, I can fix up a legendary Pokemon no problem." She then turned to Raz. "And if your trash is bugging you so much, why don't you just toss it in that magic room of yours? You can just wash it and reuse it or something."

"It has this bastard's logo on it," the Ralts explained. "I refuse to acknowledge any branding but my own. Bad for the villainous image. I have plenty of drinking vessels, anyhow." Cythera sighed as she turned away from him, apparently done with the tangent.

"Darkrai could be at my very doorstep at any minute. I need to be weary about any sort of possibility. Especially when we finally meet her." Snype simply said as he kept on walking.

"Much closer maybe than you think," Vee stated as the Victini furrowed his eyebrows and rubbed its temples. "He... I think he may be close. Possible around the western city or... closer... unless... have any of you been around him recently? In the last few weeks or so maybe? Or sooner?"

Snype turned to Abel.

"Contestant number two," Razathiel murmured.

"I was with him in Mercurion a few weeks back," Abel stated to Vee. The Victini gave the Medicham a skeptical look.

"That may be it..." Vee murmured. "Damn it... I can't get a read on anything right now, it's all... jumbled. Something's wrong... probably from my encounter with him."

"..." The Sableye quickly grew more worried. No read on Darkrai... "You don't think that he's... in here do you?" Snype looked like he was about ready to make a dash through the forest.

"I don't know," Vee shrugged helplessly. "I do know he was coming here, that's what he told me. And if he did, he may have figured out a way to bypass Celebi's power. But I can't be sure."

"Which is why we have to move," Guardia interjected. She glared at Snype. "We have to get to the Watcher now!"

"Well quit being so chatty and let's speed things up. Shouldn't be too much longer now. Just this way..." Snype said as he began moving a bit faster, on the verge of running at this point... before he had the chance to, the Sableye suddenly stopped in his tracks. Snype focused for a moment and looked aorund his surroundings. "...She's close.." Snype took a step forward and held out his hands. "Cel! "

No response came immediately. Guardia looked around the trees, trying to spot the mystical Watcher around, but saw nothing. Then, a small voice came from the side, up above on a branch relatively high up. "... Snype?"

"Cel!" Snype called out cheerfully. He reached out his arms as if expecting to reach out and hug her. He felt a heavy weight suddenly leave his shoulders knowing that Celebi was okay. Celebi was slow to move from the tree at first, but slowly and cautiously glided down toward Snype as she nervously eyed the others behind Snype. Snype looked at the group and then to the source of the voice. "Cel I know what it looks like... but we need to talk." Celebi flew down beside Snype.

"You're not supposed to bring others," Celebi stated with a small frown. Her voice was light and somewhat nervous. She seemed quiet as she floated a little bit closer to Snype.

"I didn't have a choice. Vee would have told them if not me... I'm sorry Cel I know we had a bond of secrecy... I tried I swear..." Snype said with a sigh.

Celebi still looked sad as she stared at Snype with a frown. She approached closer to the Sableye until she was right beside him. Suddenly, she kicked the Sableye directly in the face. "You idiot!" She squeaked angrily. Guardia was taken aback at the sudden action. Razathiel fell into a fit of giggles. "I told you!" Celebi yelled as she kicked him again, this time on the shin. "Damn it! Do you have any idea how much trouble I could be in?!"

Snype didn't seem too phased from the kick... it felt more playful than anything. "I know I know Cel... if this were any other situation, I wouldn't have brought them here at all. By the way, those kicks are definitely getting stronger! Keheh! Glad you're getting some practice in." Snype talked back with a playful laugh.

"Well I'm supposed to, aren't I?!" Celebi huffed as she rolled her eyes and hovered above Snype for a moment. "Since you keep saying the boogeyman Darkrai could get me for years! Still can't believe Gabe... well whatever..." She turned her back and fluttered around as she grumbled to herself. "Useless... can't keep his mouth shut.... better pack my bags, gotta find a new forest now... and I was really liking it here! Dang it!"

Despite how hurtful Celebi seemed toward Snype, the Sableye seemed as if he was used to this sort of thing. "Cel that's the thing. Darkrai knows now. I don't know how but he knows where you are." Snype said, holding out his hand and stepping closer. Able zipped toward Celebi as well.

The legendary stopped fluttering around and touched down on the ground. She turned slowly, an expression of fear on her face. "He... he knows? H-how...?" She seemed taken aback now. She slowly shook it off and continued. "Well, it's OK, he won't be able to get inside here. Even he can't navigate the forest on his own! Not unless he was led inside..." Celebi cut herself off and looked at Snype, and then the others behind him. "... you didn't lead him inside, did you? Did you, Snype? Snype... Snype, please tell me you know and trust everyone here... Able, Snype... please PLEASE tell me they're all with you!"

Snype looked back at his group and to Celebi. He reached his hands out to Celebi's shoulders and held them there, staring straight at her. "...I do. And if Darkrai does make it through, I swear I'll protect you." The Sableye didn't have a choice in the matter bringing them along anyways. They already didn't trust him anymore. What was he supposed to say? Abel was the last person he wanted to bring but Guardia already trusts him. His interaction with Darkrai worried the Sableye. A good majority of them had interacted with Darkrai in the past... Even though Celebi was right here in front of them, the Sableye was still extremely worried. Nobody else should have been here.

"The others too, right?" Celebi asked Snype with a bit of relief. "The other three a bit further behind? They're with you too... right?"

"Others? Shit!" Guardia turned around behind them to see if she could spot anyone.

Snype began to pant heavily before glaring back at the group. "Yeah... they're with us too. RIGHT?!" Snype shouted back, standing in front of Celebi. Able meanwhile watched Celei's back, making sure to watch her at every angle. "Well?! Who was it?! Which of you wants to try and test me, huh?!"

Raz had only just quelled his episode of laughter, but quickly sobered at the Watcher's words and turned around with a flourish, staff at the ready and eyes vigilant.

Cythera frowned, not too fond of being snapped at. "Hey, calm down a little. I think at this point you've made yourself perfectly clear."

"Clearly not!" Snype shot back. "Cause there's three more supposedly following us! Such an obvious scheme! If they make it here, then one of you led them here!" Snype stepped back to make sure he was close up to Celebi. "Ugghhh I was so stupid! I look like a damn fool bringing all of you in here! Vee just had to open his damn mouth! Maybe this was his plan all along!" Snype panted heavily and placed a hand on his bag. The Sableye was in a panic both at betraying Celebi in such a dumb way and the fact that Darkrai's troops could be at their front door. Snype was afraid. "So who was it huh?! Tell me!" Snype shouted out before turning to Celebi again. "Cel if they're still far behind you can boot them out of the forest or at least trap them right? We've had suspicious types in here before."

"They're pretty close here but... I should be able to!" Celebi cried as she lifted her hands forward. Her eyes glowed a bright white for a few moments. Trees and branches around creaked and rustled. Guardia glanced around to see an intriguing sight. The trees around visibly moved from one spot to another, as if part of them were disappearing and reappearing. There appeared to be a distortion around with each tree's appearance and disappearance. Suddenly, the 'mon's eyes snapped open. "Ah! I-I can't do it!" She cried. "Something... someone is stopping me. One of them... I can't stop them. They're coming!"

"No no no!" Snype cried out. How? They shouldn't be able to..." Snype Just grew more and more worried. If this was Darkrai then it was all over. The Sableye brace himself. "Well? Get ready! Don't just stand there!" He shouted to the group.

Cythera floated off of Rattles and summoned an invigorating Grassy Terrain underneath her allies, promptly hiding herself with Camouflage afterwards. Rattles herself began spinning rapidly in anticipation. Razathiel already had his fists clenched with the effort of charging magical energy, keeping his body poised low to the ground, though he scoffed lightly at Snype's impatience.

Snype watched every member of his own group now more tensely and suspiciously than he even seemed to be scanning for intruders. He was just about to turn to make sure Abel wasn't up to anything when a green fist slammed into his cheek and made him literally spiral through the air and into a tree, luckily since it wasn't a real attack it had no type and couldn't seriously hurt the Sableye. "There! Are you seeing straight now? Did I knock the red out of those gems in your head?! Maybe that'll remind you how to treat your friends when the chips are down." No sooner had he finished his scolding than was he at the tree himself, kneeling down and offering Snype his hand.

Snype rubbed his cheek and turned back to Celebi then up to Cal. "...maybe." Snype reluctantly took Cal's hand and got himself up.

"Good" Cal answered. "Now let's kick whoever's got no manners back out of Celebi's forest. I've been waiting too long to meet her for this crap...I'll explain that sentence later." He took a few steps forward, planting himself firmly in the direction he expected the intruders to come from.

"Fucking hell, you two," the Dreadmage snapped. "Throwing punches like that is really disconcerting for a wizard on edge, you know."

"A masterful wizard is prepared for all eventualities right?" Cal taunted. "I think you're just jealous YOU didn't get to deck an ally and get no arguments about it."

"You Gold Tribe have one hell of a monopoly in the punching allies department, I'll give you that," Raz muttered.

"Shut up, Ralph," Guardia spat to the Ralts as she prepared for the incoming potential enemies.

"This hardly seems the time or place for this," Thomas interjected after seeing the exchanges between the 'mon in the group.

"Well it's hardly a detriment to my readiness just because I'm taking a stab at you pricks," the Ralts shot back. "If anything, it's actually quite the motivator."

Vee closed its eyes and concentrated. A bead of sweat ran down the back of the Victini's neck. After a deep sigh, Vee's eyes opened. "He's here," Vee muttered. Guardia shot a quick glance over to Vee, then concentrated on the area in front of her. She could hear the faint sounds of footsteps, followed by the rustling of branches and grass. The area of grass directly in front of her began to move, and a Pokémon began to emerge. She felt her heart skip a beat as a Pokémon emerged, followed by another.

It was a Croconaw and a Minccino. The Croconaw glanced around and sighed. "This doesn't seem right at all! Damn it Guage, I knew we went the wrong way!" He looked over at the group in front of him as the Minccino to his right began to look over a map. "Never trust a local, I tell ya... hey, you look familiar. Ain't I seen ya somewhere before?" He asked Raz.

"... What the fuck...?"James muttered under his breath.

"So these are the terrifying agents of Darkrai you guys have been fighting?" Cythera asked, sounding a bit unsure as she dispelled her Camouflage.

"Those are only two of the three intruders, don't be a bloody fool," Razathiel sighed, refusing to break focus.

"I have no idea who they are," Thomas stated answering Cythera. "Not any Agents I've seen. Perhaps new ones?"

"Huh?" The Croconaw turned and examined the group. "Hey, maybe you can help us out. My two associates are a bunch of no-good idiots. We're tryina get to a place called Tollen. Are we close?"

Cal turned slowly, and dramatically to Snype, one brow raised. "These are the terrible intruders we betrayed you to? The horrible monsters that could only be here to wreck your precious forest because one of us must have spilled the beans?"

"...There's only two of you. Where's the third one? More importantly how in the hell did you get through here?" Snype asked.

"He's the local," Yorp answered with annoyance. "The one who basically got us lost here, looks like. We should have never listened to him, we would have been better of on our own!" He turned around and called out behind him. "Hey asshole, wrong turn!"

The leaves once more rustled from behind the Minccino and Croconaw, as a third 'mon emerged. "Really? I thought we were on the right track!" Exclaimed a Greninja with a large pack on his back. He glanced around at the group in front of him and adjusted the backpack with his arms. "Nope, we're definitely on the right track," He chuckled. "Long time no see, everyone! Well, for some of you at least. Looks like the gangs mostly all here."

"Gabriel!" Guardia exclaimed angrily, and somewhat fearfully. This was the first time she had seen the 'mon since Tollen. The first time she had seen him and known he was Darkrai.

Rattles immediately got in front of Celebi to defend her from Gabriel, whereas Cythera quickly disappeared once more.

"Now the question is, do we actually even bother fucking attacking this prick or what?" Raz asked dejectedly. "I mean an Agent, sure, but fuck this."

"Oh no, I'm doing this even if I have to do it myself." Callimer growled, taking a step closer to Gabriel and pulling the Mega Stone from his bag with no hesitation. "I've learned a few new tricks since Tollen Gabe, what'cha think? Wanna try 'em out? I figure you're the perfect recipient."

"Fearless as ever, aren't ya?" Gabriel replied to the green Dragonite. "I may actually take you up on your offer! Heck, it'll give Victini a chance to work on trying to teleport you all out of here," He stated as he gestured to Vee, who was seemed to freeze up a bit. "Didn't think I'd catch that, did ya?" He asked with a bit of a chuckle. "Well, I figure with me blocking you, and with the general layout of the forest, it'll take maybe... ten minutes?" He pondered to himself, as he placed a finger to his tongue-scarf. "Mmm... that sounds about right."

"What the hell is go-" The Croconaw began to say, before Gabriel waved his arm at both of his two companions, causing them to collapse onto the ground as dark energy swirled across them.

"Dark Void," He uttered after the fact, and glanced briefly at the two. "Don't interrupt me, I'm in my groove," He stated to them, even if they were apparently incapacitated. "Anyway... where was I? Right! Ten minutes. Ten minutes. That's how long before you're out of here. Question is... can you last that long?" He asked them, but before giving them a chance to respond, he snapped his fingers. "I'll tell ya what, I'll help you out a bit! Because you're all probably dying to know something else instead: how the heck did I get here? More specifically... which one of you gave you all up?" He glanced around at the group. Guardia looked briefly around at the others, but said nothing. Did one of them really betray them?

Cal's eyes darted back and forth once or twice as he wondered. He never knew whether to take anything from Gabriel seriously or not. He was devious and manipulative and yet frequently so... honest thanks to his lack of fear. So in the end Cal merely kept his gaze upon their greatest enemy and began to commune with the voices he knew rested in the orb in his left hand. He didn't try to transform yet unless there ended up being no point, but he was ready.

"Who, oh who, could it be?" Gabriel questioned rhetorically as he began to pace near the group. "It could be anyone here... anyone could be a candidate. It could be..." He held up a finger and pointed it to James. "A mercenary! A mercenary who was originally on the opposite side. Who saw an opportunity to advance his own agenda and take advantage. And now he returned because another advantage, a better one, had presented itself. OR..." He moved his finger off of the Blaziken, who didn't react much to Gabriel, and traveled along toward the other 'mon. "... it could be, a known criminal," He rested his finger on Snype. "Who already lied to this group multiple times. Who by all accounts has no business being on your side to begin with. Who had already fought for my side before! It could be..." He moved his finger again. "The mysterious legendary," He stated as he pointed toward Vee. "Who had only recently returned after having a mysterious encounter with me not too long ago. Who has known quite a bit about many things guardian-related. Who knew for a long time about Snype's bond! It could be..." He pointed once more to another, this time at Cythera. "... a newcomer. Who you have very little knowledge about. Who filled a role you needed, at a moment of convenience, and who no one would ever suspect otherwise! Ingenious! Buut then again... it could just be..." He pointed again, this time to Raz. "The obvious choice. The choice of evil, after all. Someone who most certainly should be on the opposing side, who had even had some of my power within him, as you all had seen before!"

"It's so nice to have fans," the wizard smiled, seething with contempt. Gabriel chuckled in response, and then continued.

"Or... maybe it's the avenger," He stated as his finger rested on Abel. "Someone who lost something most precious to him, and who would do whatever it takes to get it back, even go against his principles. Because after all, those principles only turned out to screw him over, didn't they?" Gabriel shrugged. "But then again, it could just be the least obvious pick of all," Gabriel's finger traveled across the group once more. Moving from Rattles, to Thomas, over from Callimer, before stopping at the leader of the Gold Tribe, Guardia. "The one none would see coming. The one who brought this group together. The one who has history of betrayal in her blood. Who, oh who, could it be?" He repeated again.

"Stop with your riddles. I may be a cold liar but I know my goal." Snype shot out. He felt his breath grow heavier by the minute as he moved closer to Celebi. He was hoping for a way out... In fact he did have one solution. He just hoped he didn't need to resort to it. He wanted to believe Gabe was screwing with them again... But another part of him kept screaming the possibility of a traitor.

"Are you sure about that, Snype?" Gabriel asked the Sableye. "Maybe you did it subconsciously. Maybe you did it without realizing. Maybe I have been controlling you since Tollen, from the moment you touched that vial. Are you one-hundred percent sure it can't be you?"

"The...Vial..." Snypes eyes widened as he remembered that event. When the vial turned into simple water he quit giving it a second thought. He assumed that his interaction with Cresselia wiped any trace of it. "No... You're screwing with me again... I... I wouldn't..."

"I could be," Gabriel replied with a shrug. "But then again, after today, can any of you say with certainty that you can really trust anyone else here? Because once that doubt is there... that's all it takes. One flash of gold when a bracelet is held up to you," Gabriel explained as he looked at Raz. "One mention of your past history," He then glanced at Snype and then Guardia. "One small, meaningless mention of being around me, or seeing me with someone," He looked at Vee and Abel. "That's all it takes to condemn you in the eyes of the rest. That is the bea-"

"Oh, for fuck's sake, will you shut up? It was me," The voice of James interjected as he rolled his eyes. "Arceus damn it."

Snype stared at James intensely. At the same time, Snype was shocked, confused, and outright felt stupid. "You're fucking kidding me. Of fucking course." Snype said. The previous agent as a traitor. It seemed so damn obvious. That was the last time he hired a mercenary.

"Jaaames!" Gabriel whined. He sighed. "Ruining my fun," He mumbled. "Yeah, sometimes, the answer is staring you straight in the face."

Cal put a hand on Snype's shoulder and shook his head. "What does it matter? James didn't even really have to lie to us. He told us he was only loyal to his job, he warned us he'd turn to anyone who gave him a better offer. And he told us not to trust him but..." For a moment Cal looked like he was in pain, but then he started laughing, almost hysterically. "Despite what Gabe may think he's accomplished, he's done nothing by taking James back." He looked straight into James' good eye and gave the smallest, most imperceptible nod before he scowled and continued. "He's just a mercenary, he was nothing to us but a resource, and by the time Darkrai got him back we didn't even need him anymore. I say good riddance."

"That's great Cal but uh..." He glanced over to Celebi. He was overcome by the guilt of betraying her... but he had to make things right somehow. He looked back at Cel and whispered to her. "Cel... we can still get out of this... don't be afraid. If you need to do anything drastic now would be a good time. Kehehehe..."

"On THAT note," Gabriel began as he glanced at Snype and Celebi and cracked his knuckles. "Looks like I better do what I came here to do then, eh?"

"Need me to take 'em out?" James asked the Greninja.

Gabriel waved him off. "Nah, you'll have your chance later. Besides..." Gabriel cracked his neck and stepped forward. "I think I let this group take one too many steps forward now. Only fair I be the one to push them back down."
 
The Thieves Forest- Duel against Darkrai

"Guys, I can get us out of here... I just need some time... hold him off!" Vee exclaimed.

"Stay close... I promise I'll get you out of here Cel..." Snype said back. He could easily Mega Evolve and contend with Darkrai... but that would already be two uses he would be blowing right off the bat. Able and Snype formed a shield around Celebi, backing away from Darkrai.

"Aghem, not so fast," Razathiel cleared his throat loudly, tapping his staff on a chalkboard he'd procured from his magic room which currently bore the words '**** you' in large and extravagant lettering. "I agree it's very important that everyone gets out everything they need to, and so I'm going to let you all finish..." The wizard paused for a moment. "Right now, you're finishing right now, shut the **** up already; I'm talking now, I've waited long enough. First on the agenda: I ****ing told you so!" Raz pointed his staff accusingly at the rest of the group. "Didn't I say right at the entrance to get rid of Mister Turncoat the Turncoat? Maybe this is a sign that you morons should start listening to 'mon of vastly superior intellect, such as myself."

"Raz-" Before the Sableye interrupted, he suddenly came up with a brilliant idea. "Yeah... Yeah you did. Pretty dumb that I didn't listen to you there." Snype said.

Thomas glanced at Gabriel, who tilted his head, before looked over to Raz. "Razathiel, I hardly believe this is the ti-" Thomas was suddenly stopped by Guardia, who held a paw up to stop the Hypno from speaking more.

"I agree," Guardia stated as she made a nervous glance at Gabriel. Their best bet was to try and stall him as much as possible. "I knew from the start it was a bad idea."

Gabriel shrugged. "I guess I can't argue much with you there."

"You people are crazy!" Cythera fussed in a sort of whisper-shout, her voice clearly filled with panic. "Shouldn't you be beating him up or something!?"

"Verbally? Absolutely!" Razathiel cried enthusiastically. "Oh, Gabriel. Gabriel, Gabriel, Gabriel - Gabe, Darkrai? Not entirely sure what the consensus is; moron will do, I suppose- first of all, moron, don't think I didn't notice you comparing something as terrifyingly magnificent as my truly evil intentions to your childish tantrum!" The wizard flipped up onto his staff and folded his arms, glaring intensely at the Greninja. "You have nothing to do with evil, you probably don't even know what it really is - you are but a toddler, screaming at the world because it isn't going your way. So know your place, and don't let me catch you making such ridiculous comparisons again!" The Ralts scoffed, then sighed heavily and turned briefly to the others. "Can you believe this guy? That's not even the worst of it; I've just got so much to complain about, so I've got to pace myself and potentially postpone the battle just because each point is so tiring - really, the amount I have to complain about is a valid complaint in itself!"

So far the stalling was working but anything was possible with Gabe. With the forest's barriers non functional however this opened up a few opportunities for Snype in case things got bad. A resort for dealing with dangerous intruders within the forest. He glanced over to Able and back to Gabe.

"I mean really, hiring James was pretty dumb anyways. My thieves are pretty darn sucked dry thanks to that! Guess that's one lesson my end. Gah if only I listened..." Snype said.

"Really?" Gabriel asked as he examined the Ralts following his rant. The Greninja crossed his arms. He chuckled slightly. "Sounds like you've got a lot to get off your chest. Buuut... I think you've all stalled long enough. Like I said before, you've taken one step too many. Puts us out of line! I gotta get us back on the right track with a few things, first one being..." Gabriel pointed at Celebi. "Her. You hand her over now," He stated casually, before his voice tensed up a bit, the undertone becoming slightly more serious. "And I do mean now."

"That's funny." Cal growled, right back to being all business. He stepped directly between Celebi and Gabriel and crossed his arms. "I was just thinking of asking you to leave now. And I do mean now."

Snype stayed close to Celebi. He would be dead before that frog got his hands on her. "Able... On my cue." Snype whispered.

"Can't do it, Callimer," Gabriel responded as he lifted his arms to the side and shrugged his shoulders helplessly. "Not until I've done what I came to do," He explained. From both of his hands on his sides, dark energy began to gather. James, who was to the left of the Greninja, instinctively took a few steps back to get out of the way. Guardia braced herself as she saw the attack coming. She moved in front of Vee, realizing the importance of trying to keep both the Victini and Celebi alive if they were going to make it out of this. A dark, purple energy continued to emulate from both of Gabriel's hands. It seemed like a vortex of power, all encapsulated in the palm of his hands. Even from her distance, she could feel the energy he was emitted. Gabriel raised both of his hands in the air, causing the two points of energy to expand rapidly. Then, he pointed the two at the crowd of fighters in front of him, firing off a pair of deadly Chaos Pulses at them.

Without even an ounce of hesitation, Rattles leapt in front of the attack and used Protect, a barrier of pale energy forming around the already incredibly sturdy Ferrothorn as she collided directly with the Chaos Pulses. But a mere Protect was not enough to repel the strength of a legendary, and the barrier shattered under the force, launching Rattles into the ground like a meteor.

"Rattles!!!" Snype cried out.

"No!" Cal shouted, leaping straight through the rest of the blast, needing an Extremespeed just to push past it and ignoring the pain to swing a Superpowered fist at Gabriel. "Cythera! Help her! Everybody keep Cythera and the legendaries safe! NOW!"

Cythera had been stunned by the scene unfolding in front of her, but Cal's words snapped her out of it. "G-got it!" She managed to get out as she rushed over to Rattles' side. The Ferrothorn staggered out of the crater her impact had formed, a huge dent in her steel shell. Instinctively, Rattles Ingrained her roots into the ground below and closed her eyes, absorbing healing energy from the ground that was compounded by the Grassy Terrain. Cythera also did her part, passing waves of Wish energy over the wounded 'mon.

"All or nothing, Able! Sound the alarm!" Snype shouted out. The Ninjask flew up into the air and suddenly gave off a loud screeching noise that would sound throughout the forest. Snype figured that if Celebi were teleported out, the forest would no longer be protected by Celebi. Darkrai would be free to do as he pleased. However, even after the alarm was sounded, nothing seemed to happen.

"Not this time, big guy!" Gabriel exclaimed, as he anticipated Cal's large fist. Instead of striking at the fearless Dragonite, Gabriel covered his arms with the same dark energy he had used to launch the Chaos Pulses, and grab onto his arm. He then guided it past his body, and with a surprising show of strength for his size, tossed the giant green Dragonite behind him. Guardia, Abel, and Thomas had already begun their moves as well. Narrowly avoiding the tremendous attacks from the Chaos Pulses, Abel and Thomas both moved in to strike at Gabriel from a distance. Abel relied on a Focus Blast, while Thomas launched a Poison Gas on the 'mon. Guardia held back to protect Vee from the remnants of the Chaos Pulse with her signature Thunder defense.

Both Abel and Thomas's attacks collided with Gabriel, but neither appeared to have done much affect. The Greninja grunted slightly as the strong Focus Blast made contact, while the Poison Gas seemed to have done nothing to him. "Child's play, boys, come on now!" Gabe called out as he began spinning sporadically. His body was covered with dark energy once more, and a series of dark liquid darts propelled around and fired across the area. They appeared to be Water Shurikens, combined with his own chaotic energy. Thomas felt firsthand the strength of the shurikens, as one blow from them was enough to send him spiralling into a set of branches. Abel was nearly split in half by one as he dodged one, only to see it continue on and slice the tree behind him in half. Gabriel launched over two dozen more of the Dark Water Shurikens across the field at the other fighters, including, Cal, Rattles, Cythera, Able, Snype, Celebi, Raz, and Guardia. He briefly glanced up at Able, curious about what her screech was about.

"Rattles, Gravity!" yelled Cythera as she saw the shurikens approaching. Having regained some strength, Rattles' managed to create a small field of intensified gravity around her, forcing the shurikens into the ground just before they would have hit the two 'mon. Seeing that Rattles had made it out of death's door, Cythera left her to attend to Thomas, entrusting the Ferrothorn to the Grassy Terrain and her own Ingrain.

Snype wrapped his arms around Celebi and panic dived from the Shurikens. Even his own body wouldn't shield against that sort of attack. Though thanks to Detect, he was able to properly avoid them and keep Celebi out of harms reach. Able being the natural speedster she was, managed to avoid the Dark shurikens with ease and finally had Darkrai's attention. "I think you forget exactly who's home this is Darkrai!" Able shouted out. "This forest is booby trapped up and down! You take one wrong step you can kiss your froggy ass goodbye! Our thieves are already on their way!"

"Oh, for ****'s sake..." Razathiel muttered, hopping down off his staff and opening his Magic Room, offering up his chalkboard to the approaching shuriken. To his annoyance, instead of sending the slate flying the attack simply split it in two. The wizard grunted angrily, clenching his empty fist and willing his suit of armour to close around him. "Unbelievable!" The Dreadmage exclaimed, his voice echoing through the visor of his helmet. His arms shook slightly, both from repressed rage and the Dazzling Gleam he'd had prepared since before Darkrai had even appeared. "You lot can't even hold off for a few moments so I can give a well-needed lecture on villainy? And I thought I was the one with a lust for murder here! Gabriel! You think I got that chalkboard out for nothing, you amphibious ****wit?"

Callimer roared with frustration and fury when he was sent flying by the Greninja. He just barely managed to correct himself in the air and rebound off of a tree, snapping it in two and propelling himself at Gabriel. This time instead of a straight attack, his fists were coated in frost and he threw a rapid flurry of icey left and right hooks at Gabriel with a close-up Extremespeed boost.

"Forest full of traps? More enemies to fight?" Gabriel repeated what Snype said. "Can't have that! Better get rid of them!" He exclaimed. Both of his hands were filled with dark energy again, like before. Only this time, he didn't use Chaos Pulses from there. Instead, he raised his hands up as Callimer drew closer. The trees, branches and leaves within an appreciable distance around the Greninja began moving slightly. Then suddenly, droplets of water began to be raised from the forest. At first, the droplets were extracted in small portions, but as Gabriel raised his hands higher, the water emerged in full force. The leaves and trees rotted away from the points where he extracted. Gabriel commanded a tidal wave around him, which he forced up into the air, and then rapidly dropped it on the ground below. The water merged together, and crashed onto the ground, flinging a Surf in all directions around him, breaking apart trees with ease and crushing anything in its path.

Guardia cursed and swiftly rose from the bottom level of the forest floor to one of the higher branches. She grabbed hold of Vee along the way to ensure he wasn't swept away in this sudden, powerful Surf. Abel followed Guardia's lead, the the water managed to hit across him before he could reach a high enough ground.

Cythera floated high into the air, carrying Thomas with her using her Psychic. However, Rattles was still rooted to the ground and was unable to move. "Rattles!" Cythera shouted, but before long the Ferrothorn was lost underneath the torrent.

Gabe seemed to fall for Able's bluff however not in the way she exactly expected. Still it was a means to stall further. They just had to avoid his incoming assault and protect everyone in the process. Snype held onto Celebi and clung onto the nearest tree he could and attempted to make his way to higher ground. He activated Detect once more as he realized he would be an open target. He had to figure out a way to stall further. Gabe wasn't the easiest fool. "Cel... you alright? Hang in there just a little longer..." Snype said.

Razathiel launched himself upwards on a cloud of Psychic energy with a heavy sigh, finding purchase among the treetops and yelling down to the Greninja below, "Hey Gabe! Drop the stupid backpack! Get an extra-dimensional space, you ****ing imbecile! You look ridiculous!"

"I happen to like this backpack!" Gabriel shot back at the ralts. "It makes me look like a seasoned traveler!"

Cal shot up into the air before he could be swept away by the deluge and grunted. "Gabe was never going to make this easy, but that doesn't mean he has to be such an annoying dick about it." He did have an idea for how to deal with water however. Cal roared one more time and a Draco Meteor core floated into the air by him, then he flew above it and shattered it with an Ice Punch, sending frozen Draco Comets down towards Gabe's chunk of the new lake in an attempt to freeze him in place.

Guardia sighed in relief after she hopped off the broken tree, which somehow managed to barely remain in tact long enough for her and Vee to survive Gabriel's onslaught. "You alright?" She asked the Victini.

Vee nodded as a drop of sweat ran down its face. "Not long now, just a little longer and I can get us out of here... just hold on," Vee stated

"Oh, I'll do more than hold on," Guardia spat as she glanced over at the Greninja, charging up a Thunder as she awaited to see what would happen between him and Callimer's attack.

Gabriel, standing in the middle of the destruction he left, was suddenly put in place by the freezing over of the lake around him due to Cal's combination Draco Meteor-Ice Punch attack. "Eh?" Gabriel looked down, to find that the 'mon's legs were stuck in place at the moment.

Snype took this chance to get into a better position with Celebi. At least, somewhere in range of Victini's teleport. He moved back onto ground level, prepared to move anywhere else with Celebi. The Sableye was carrying her in his arms now. He dared not speak a word to break Vee's concentration. He just had to focus on Gabe and keeping everyone alive. They had to keep Gabe in place a little longer! There was still the matter of James however. He would be an issue if he assisted Gabe. Snype had to be ready for anything. Despite the surf attack, none of the thieves Able mentioned had arrived.

Spreading his wings as wide as he could, Cal shot even higher into the air. Once he was satisfied with his height he angled himself back downward and dived straight towards Gabe, speeding himself up with Extremespeed and channeling Superpower into both of his fists. Chaos or not, Gabe was still a Dark-type.

"That's an oxymoron, you dimwit!" Razathiel shouted at Darkrai once again, having repositioned himself. "Guess what? Seasoned travelers who can have extra-dimensional spaces, have extra-dimensional spaces! Because you'd have to be a ****ing idiot not to, you ****ing idiot!"

Gabriel positioned himself, and braced for impact as the large Dragonite collided with him with his fists. Gabriel held up both of his palms, and as the powerful Superpower collided, he grunted for a moment and began to fall back. However, the strain seemed only momentary. All of the momentum Cal was carrying when he attacking seemed to slowly fade as dark energy poured around the Greninja's body, slowly engulfing him and beginning to transform his skin from the dark blue that it was into a deep black. His features changed as well, from the familiar features of the Greninja he was into the Darkrai he became. The backpack on his back had dissolved from the power of Callimer's hit and Darkrai's newly awakened power he released. This entire process occurred within the few seconds of the impact from Callimer's attack, but it was all that was necessary to change the momentum of the attack. Gabriel regained his footing rather easily, and gathered dark energy at his hands, and pushed it forcefully at the Dragonite. His newly-found power sent the Dragonite soaring away from Darkrai.

"I suppose," Darkrai continued to answer Raz as if nothing had happened in between his comment to him. His voice was a bit deeper, but it still displayed the Greninja's generally calm demeanor and mannerism. He looked at his back, finding no backpack there and shrugged. "Looks like it doesn't matter any more now," He added with a disturbing chuckle. Darkrai lifted his hand to the right to stop an incoming Thunder that Guardia had been preparing during Gabriel's encounter with Callimer. However, the high-powered electric attack was all but demolished in his right arm as quickly as it was sent out.

Snype felt himself tremble at the mere sight of Darkrai. This was the second time he had seen him and he still couldn't get used to his presence. He was ready to do whatever was necessary to protect Celebi. "Starting to think calling our thieves over was a bad idea Able. They wont survive a fight like this." Snype said looking at the remains of the trees around them expectantly. Still, he felt Darkrai was toying with them. Dark void would easily finish the group off... Perhaps he was waiting till the last second.

"What it looks like, Darkrai, is you followed my advice! It's nothing to be ashamed of; this is a much more imposing look," Razathiel called down from a different tree, pleased with Gabriel's apparent co-operation. "See, the whole Greninja thing- I get it, it's got the whole 'ooh, who can tell this grubby Greninja is actually Darkrai?' sort of thing, and although it's certainly not my style, I won't immediately condemn it. Against us though, there's really no point to it, we recognise exactly who you are immediately - it's quite tiring, to be honest. You're far better off ditching this boring camouflage malarkey and pooling your resources towards openings with actual impact. Have fun with it, for crying out loud! Though of course you'll have to work on your abysmal dramatic timing; honestly, were you and your Agent airheads trained by Slowpokes?"

Darkrai responded with another chuckle. "Entertaining as always Razathiel, and if I had a bit more time, maybe I'd like to hear more. But as it is..." Gabriel lifted a hand, and forced it to the ground below. Dark energy began to seep into the forest, and spread across it. It seeped into the dirt, through the roots of the trees, and spread across the foreseeable area. It gnawed bark, rotted leaves, and cracked apart the ground. The energy had completely engulfed the area where the group stood, below them and around them. Guardia darted her eyes across to see it closing in on Vee and Celebi as well. Vee pleadingly returned a look at Guardia, she knew the Victini needed only a bit more time before she could send everyone away. "I've come for something, and I don't plan to leave without it. After all!" He exclaimed as the dark energy all around them began to slowly seep out of the trees and branches around. With it, it almost felt to Guardia as if Darkrai was sucking out of the life or the energy from the trees, leaving them in a lifeless state. The energy being gathered traveled past them, and returned to the palm of Gabriel's had, as he apparently began preparing for an attack. An attack, which continued to grow in both size and power. Guardia couldn't help but shudder as she felt that power continuously increase. She didn't know 'mon were capable of such levels.

"You killed my top General!" Darkrai stated as his attack fully formed. It seemed similar to the way a Dark pulse looked before, only larger in scope and stronger in power and fused with chaos energy for a slightly altered color. Guardia doubted if anyone in the group was hit by it, that they would survive. "It's only fair if I return the favor." With that, Darkrai extended his arm into the air, and the energy broke apart into dozens of smaller energies. The area was rained with an extensive amount of Chaos Pulses.

"****! Don't let those hit you!" Guardia exclaimed, feeling the immense power which radiated from them.

Vee suddenly shouted from behind them. "Almost ready! Gather to me, quick!" The Victini exclaimed, as he opened his eyes in horror at the vast amount of Chaos Pulses beginning to bombard the area.

"Argh!" Snype cried out in anger, watching his home get destroyed by Darkrai. He was glad Able executed the order to evacuate when she did. Right now he had to sorry about himself. Snype moved over to Victini and stayed close, making sure to shield Celebi, as helpless as it seemed. Snype looked terrified.

Cythera quickly made way over to Vee's side, having salvaged Rattles from the forest floor with her Psychic power. There was a pained look on her face as she struggled to keep her unconscious and absurdly heavy assistant aloft. "Get us out of here already!" She pleaded through gritted teeth.

Callimer backed towards Vee slowly, determined not to hide by him until everyone was ready to leave. He could at least stall Gabriel, he'd done that much before.

"Leaving already?" Razathiel questioned, landing in a small cloud of dust next to the others. "I'm not done with this prick yet, you know. Oi, Gabe, stop that!" The wizard had launched a radiant Dazzling Gleam at the legendary and his ball of energy with a haughty scoff. "Is it so unreasonable for us to have a simple ****ing conversation over the importance of villainous etiquette?"

The Dazzling Gleam's impact seemed to hardly affect Darkrai directly, though it did momentarily distort the large ball of energy and stop the larger ball of energy from firing for a few seconds. However, Gabriel seemed to concentrate more and the blasts continued as mercilessly as before. Now, Darkrai seemed to be directing them, instead of them firing randomly around the area. "Not this time Raz!" He answered the Ralts, before cackling. "Oh, come on! You're all gathering to one spot? Don't make it easy for me! I didn't want to kill you all but... if you say so!" He laughed, as the Chaos Pulse crushed through the forest, and beckoned by the legendary, came crashing from all sides toward the group. Abel cursed under his breath. Thomas looked on in horror. Guardia stepped forward, preparing a Thunder defense while closing her eyes shut to brace for the impact. The Chaos Pulses were mere moments away, when Vee suddenly exclaimed.

"Got it! Let's go!" The Victini shouted, and the entire group teleported out of the forest at once, just as the Chaos Pulses came crashing down around them. When they reappeared, they found themselves right in the entrance of the familiar sight of Fort Ferrol.
 

The Last Breath


There was a loud thud as Cythera dropped Rattles, followed by a much, much softer thud from the Floette herself falling to the ground. Without moving, she muttered, "Please, please, tell me this isn't how these things usually go..."

"Everyone ignores my warnings, panics as something bad happens and ultimately holds me back from greater potential..." The Dreadmage rambled with his chin raised, gazing away from the group dismissively. "Then the trouble ends and I emerge unscathed thanks to my unparalleled skill in battle. Fairly standard procedure, as far as I'm concerned." This brought an exasperated groan from the healer.

Snype fell to his knees once the group arrived at Fort Ferrol. "I...I...I..Its gone... All of it...t...the thieves..."

Thomas walked over to Snype, leaned over and patted him on his shoulder. "I am sorry, Snype," He said weakly. He sighed and glanced around at the rest of the group. Celebi was beside Snype as well, frowning at the Sableye. He then looked at Vee, who seemed to be in shock as the Victini stared directly in front of him.

"Are you alrig-" Thomas stopped talking as he looked forward past the Victini to where he was looking. His eyes grew wide with horror as well.



"I-I wasn't fast enough..." Vee choked out, as he gazed at Guardia who was in front of him, with steam coming from her after apparently taking one of the Chaos Pulses directly, and a large hole directly through her stomach.

"Guardia!" Thomas cried, as the Zangoose slowly turned around.

"****," She managed to choke out, before collapsing to the floor.

Snype felt his chest sink at the sight of Guardia. "Guardia...GUARDIAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!" Snype rushed on over to her, tears flowing from his eyes. The sableye held onto her hand desperately hoping for a sign of life. "No no no! Don't do this to me! Guardia please!"

Immediately after she heard the shouting, Cythera looked up and saw Guardia. Eyes wide, she hurried to the Zangoose's side and got to work, creating a patch of Grassy Terrain, sprinkling powdered big root on the wound, forming an air of Aromatherapy to ease the pain and casting Wish, but none of it seemed to be doing much good. "You *****, don't make a liar out of me now!" she yelled.

Amid the shouting a few of the Enforcer guards had come to investigate. "S**t! Someone get a healer out here! A Gold Tribe is down! Repeat, Gold Tribe is down!" Already there was a scrambling within the fort as word was quickly spread around. Civilians couldn't help but peer over at the scene as Enforcers came with whatever cloth they could quickly find to try and start putting pressure on the wound.

"... She's dead." One Furret murmured as he gazed at the hole, "There's no fixing that..."

"No...no No no!!!" Snype yelled out in denial." After everything I said.. All the ****ty lies I threw... Guardia please! Don't die! This... I..." The Sableye broke down into tears. Clinging onto Guardia's hand desperately. "Please wake up... Please wake up..."

"Guardia!" Cal shouted, kneeling down near her. He hung his head and had to hold in the sobs that threatened to rack his body. "Snype this is no time to panic! The fastest of us have to get more healers, NOW. Help Cythera! Guardia..." His voice cracked and he started to mutter as if he was broken. "You can't go...We still need you. I'm not ready to go on without you yet..." In the midst of almost sinking into genuine crying, Cal's antennae shot bolt straight all of a sudden. "Celebi!" He whirled around to the floating green guardian. "YOU! You've can control time! Rewind Guardia's body to before she was hurt! Send us back so I can take the hit instead! You've got to do something, you might be the only one who can!"

"If we don't get these wounds stitched fast she's not going to make it!" A Haunter shouted out.

"SHUT UP I KNOW WHAT I'M DOING!" Cythera shouted as she pulled more and more tools from her bag. She used her Psychic power to keep pressure all around the wound while she sifted through her instruments.

"Who the **** are you? Get out of here!" Razathiel snapped at the intrusive ghost. With a swish of his staff he plonked a good portion of his medical supplies from his Magic Room beside the Floette. This had become grim rather quickly, the Ralts thought, but now wasn't the time for inaction. "I leave the floor with you; if we've got a supposedly legendary healer and two ****ing deities here, I'll be ****ing livid if we can't sort this out. Regardless, this is no place for me - I'll set to getting all these witless interlopers out of your hair." With that, Razathiel left to begin the arduous task of flinging endless barrages of threats and insults at the general public.

Celebi looked helplessly from Callimer to Guardia on the ground. Her eyes began to fill up with tears. "... I can't," She barely managed to croaked out.

"There has to be a way!" Cal demanded desperately, reaching into his bag to pull out the familiar ubiquitous orb. "Is there any chance you can use the power from my Mega Stone for a boost? I know they're tied to legendaries somehow."

Loud footsteps were heard that pounded against the ground. Rounding around a corner was Obsidian and several mon that had hastily gathered whatever medical supplies they could get their hands on. He stoppped as he saw the scene, but the medics around him were quick to start surrounding the downed Zangoose. "What happened?" The Weavile croaked out. A Vileplume pulled out a white thin tube, "I need to start a blood transfusion!" She cried out. "We need to get some blood in her, stat!"

"Darkrai," Thomas commented grimly to the Obsidian. He looked toward Celebi, expecting her to explain further.

The 'mon simply shook her head. "Even if I could do it, I'm not allowed to," She explained in tears. "I'm sorry... I'm so sorry..."

Abel, who had been beside the Zangoose, angrily stormed over to the Celebi. "I don't give a **** about not being allowed to. If you can fix her, you better ****ing do it, or by the time I'm through with you, you'll wish Darkrai got you," He threatened. Celebi backed away fearfully.

Cal laid a hand on Abel's shoulder, fully ready to have it smacked away or to get slugged. "Abel scaring her won't help. But... " He turned to Celebi again. "Screw the rules, why can't you? And what can we do to break that rule into a million tiny things?!"

"Even if I could do that type of thing with my power!" Celebi began frantically. She shook her head. "I can't do it! I was told not to use my power for anything involved with the world, save to keep me hidden!" She explained. "I'm sorry... I can't."

"No power can bring back the dead," Vee stated with a frown as he examined Guardia. "No matter how much we want it to."

Obsidian glared as well at Celebi, "So she gives up her life for you... and you don't even do anything about it!? I think Abel is right. I think you really should be afraid right now." He held up a clawed hand.

"Back off!" Able shouted to Obsidian "You weren't exactly there to help in the first place you hypocrite!."

"She's not dead yet!" Thomas exclaimed furiously.

Vee simply shook his head. "She's going on. I can feel it. I'm sorry, guys. I wasn't fast enough. But... just calm down, don't do anything rash," He stated to Obsidian and Abel.

"Thanks so much for the votes of confidence, guys," Cythera nagged as she continued her task, quickly working to repair Guardia's damaged organs.

"Cythera is there any way I can help? Helping with tools, providing oxygen... Anything... If there's any way to bring her back to us... I'll do all I can." Snype said. While he had plenty of colorful words to say toward those ganging up on Celebi, all he cared about at the moment was being by Guardia's side.

Cythera sighed. "There's not much you can do but keep everyone else quiet. I'm doing a million things right now with my Psychic power and I have had a VERY rough day, so it's a bit tough to focus in the first place..." Indeed, aside from applying pressure on the wound, Cythera was also managing her surgical instruments and keeping Guardia's airway open while trying to simultaneously perform her healing magic. "Actually, can somebody hand me a Leppa Berry?"

"Cel... I know you have your rules and all, but there's always a way to cheat them without breaking them. Are you sure there's no way to fix this...?" Snype dug through his bag. Thankfully he made it second nature to always stockpile himself with a variety of berries. Snype placed his bag beside Cythera. He still had a few various berries in supply. He said nothing after that and left Cythera to focus on her healing.

"Snype...you know better than most what I can and can't do... I can't do this, Snype, even if I wanted to..." Celebi stated with a frown.

The Sableye simply sighed. "...I know... I just... wanted to hope..."

Suddenly, from below Snype and around the healers, Guardia stirred. "S-snype..." She mumbled weakly.

"Guardia!" Snype rushed over to her, placing his hand over hers. "Relax... d-don't move too much... Cythera has this... you aren't dying on us today..."

Guardia slowly shook her head. "No... this is it for me," She managed to cough out. "Is Celebi safe?" She asked weakly.

"S...she's alright..." Snype felt tears falling right out of his gem eyes. "Guardia I'm sorry... I'm so sorry... I'm sorry for being such an ass...Lying to your face... all of this... I have so much to tell you... so much to make up..."

Guardia coughed again and shook her head once more. "Forget it now. Just tell me one thing. Promise me one thing," she beckoned him closer.

Snype leaned in close to Guardia... looking her dead in the eye. "A...anything..." Snype sobbed. "I... I'll do anything...."

Guardia slowly reached out her claw and grabbed Snype by his cloak. She looked at him fiercely in his eyes. "Whatever you did, whoever you were or you are, whatever secrets you had, put it all aside and promise me... you see this through, to the end. You don't let that bastard Gabriel win. No. Matter. What."

Snype felt himself breathing heavily as he stared at Guardia and nodded to her. "Guardia...no..." Snype shook his head. "...Lyn... I swear... I'll stop him..." Snype placed a hand on her cheek. "You'd probly come back and beat the snot out of me if I didn't. Keheh..." Snype said with a small laugh.

Guardia barely managed a smile. She then turned her gaze to Cal. "Cal..." She called weakly to the giant green Dragonite. "I became Gold Tribe leader when I was 18, inheriting it from one of the bravest 'Mon I ever knew..." She coughed up some more blood. "I made it my own. I poured everything I had into it. I had to, for those that came before me, for every mon I vowed to protect... it's yours now. Make it your own, but remember why we do it. Why we fight," She glanced briefly at Abel, who silently gazed at her. "I couldn't pick a better 'mon to be leader."

"Lyn..." Snype and Cal said simultaneously, each holding a paw closely. Able flew beside Snype and looked at Guardia.

"Even if I am ready to lead ..." Callimer muttered as if he was about to shatter into pieces. "I don't want to do it without you....first Dad, then Mom.... then Wildfire... why does this have to happen to everyone I love?" His free hand made a fist and slammed into the ground on the other side of him, making a small indentation and shaking everyone's feet up a bit, it took all he had not to make it a crater instead. "But you have my word. Darkrai won't win, no matter what happens. Not if he turns the whole world against us. Not if I have to bend every other legendary that still exists to my will... not even if I have to give myself up utterly and completely to make it so. We'll stop him, this time for good." His voice cracked and a big tear, so voluminous only a dragon could make it, slid down his face and splashed onto the ground. "We'll do it... I'll do it."

A paw came to rest on Callimer's arm as Kaveri stood next to her brother and offered him a watery smile. Her own eyes glistened with tears she refused to shed, the Floatzel determined to maintain a strong front for both her dying leader and for her younger brother as he stepped into his new role. "Everyone here is with you, Sentinel," she said with a fair steady voice, though she let out a sniff. It was one of the rare times she was actually addressing her brother by his Gold Tribe title, rather than by his name or the familiar "bro". For this moment... it felt right. He was and always would be her little brother, but now more than ever she was realizing their positions were now reversing. Of course she would always be there for him if he ever sought out her advice or comfort, but no longer would she fuss over every little thing that happened to him as she had up until that point. It was well beyond time that she recognized that he was a more than capable of holding himself up.

Looking down at Guardia, Kaveri had to pause a moment to choke down a sob before she spoke again. "You won't needa worry about anything as long as long as he's in charge. Even if he doesn't see it himself, he was meant to be a leader from the day he was born. We'll stop Darkrai."

Guardia gave a weak smile to Kav and Cal. Cal said nothing, just squeezed Kav's paw on his shoulder with his free hand, silently thanking her for her support while the other hand kept hold of Lyn's.

"Lyn... I..." Snype felt himself choke up a bit. "I'm sorry... I...I'll be better... I'll change for you... I'll be a better mon! I won't be such an ass! If I just got rid of that Blaziken..." Snype held onto her paw a bit tighter. He was all but consumed with overwhelming guilt, despite what Guardia had told him earlier. More tears streamed out of Snype's eyes. "Lyn... it's not fair... why do you have to die... why did I have to be such an idiot..." It was the silver tribe all over again. It was twice now that Snype had led Darkrai into his home and destroyed the thieves. Now, he felt he had killed his friend, Lyn in the process. He had nothing besides Celebi now.

With the general public largely dealt with Razathiel made his return, dropping to the floor after his temporary levitation and bringing Lia with him in tow. Lia floated around carelessly, until she came upon Guardia, where she suddenly frowned and lowered herself onto the ground.

"I figured bringing the Munna was a decent idea," the Ralts offered, before assessing the situation and turning his gaze to the two legendary 'mon present. "Is there any explanation as to why those two callous dullards haven't so much as moved a single inch in my absence?"

"There's nothing I can do," Vee murmured to the Ralts. "No power can stop a 'mon from dying when she's this... even infinite energy can't. And Celebi... I don't think she can either."

"I think you are mistaken as to the definition of 'infinite', Victini," the wizard snapped. "And your claims for the uselessness of the things you can do are hard to believe when you outright refuse to try any of them. Is the idea of making an effort truly that beyond you?"

Vee shook its head and stepped toward the Zangoose. The Victini extended its arms and placed them upon Guardia's damaged body. Its hands lit up as it tried to concentrate on the task ahead. For a few minutes, it struggled in silence, trying to pump energy into the Zangoose in an attempt to salvage her life. After a bit more time, Vee sighed and stepped away in defeat.

Guardia coughed again, this time drawing blood from her mouth in the process. She looked around at the group, and grunted. "I made this team... this group... but looks like... I won't be... around... to finish what I started... looks like it was never my mission to finish... heh... " Guardia coughed again, as a tear welled up in her own eye, though it was obvious she was trying to fight it from streaming down. Even as she approached the end of her life, she never wanted to give off the appearance of weakness, of fragility. She gripped the hands of her friends tighter, her voice now barely above a whisper. "It's yours now... " She barely managed out. She then looked like she wanted to say something else, but life seemed to escape her before she had a chance. The Zangoose's hands gripped tightly one last time, and then Lyn "Guardia" Reed, the Leader of the Gold Tribe, had taken her last breath.
 

No time for a funeral.


Snype's eyes widened as Guardia finally passed. "LYYYYYYYYYYYYYNNNNNNNNNNNN!!!!!!!!!!!!" Snype screamed out as he laid his head into Lyn's arm and just sobbed into her arm. Lia curled up in a ball beside Snype.

Cythera, who had been working diligently the whole time her allies spoke, finally put down her instruments and looked to the sky, observing the sun's position to etch the time of Guardia's death into her mind. It was difficult to discern any emotions from her expression.

Cal remained silent, simply staring at Guardia's face and letting the quiet reign over everything. After a minute of saying or doing nothing Cal finally released Guardia's hand, folding it against her chest. Without a word, he took her other hand slowly, gently from Snype, and folded it over the other one. As soon as that was done he leveraged his arms underneath her and lifted her up solemnly. Cal stood all the way back up, taking advantage of his size to hold Guardia high enough that no one could miss her, and carried her to the center of Fort Ferrol. Once he arrived Callimer stopped and inhaled a gargantuan breath that puffed up his entire chest before letting out an angry, keening roar that could be heard for miles around. https://youtu.be/C7CL0JrxQKs?t=12 (SOMEBODY SOUNDCLIP THAT SHIT FOR ME) "Attention! All members of the Gold Tribe and anyone else at Fort Ferrol with ties to us! Lyn "Guardia" Reed, our leader, our sister... our friend. Has passed." After he finished his announcement he hung his head and allowed those who'd heard him to gather 'round before continuing. Among the gathered included the Gold Tribes'mon who were stationed at Ferrol, Wraith, Reign, and Whirlwind. All three, including the usually talkative Wraith, were at a loss for words. Also among the gathered were countless Alpha Alliance soldiers, and the many refugees that Guardia had lived to defend.

Snype just stayed kneeled down to the ground, allowing Cal to take Lyn to the Center of the fort. All he could do was let it all out... A part of him didn't want to accept it. Guardia's final words burned deep into his mind. Snype couldn't run away from this. Lyn would never forgive him. "Lyn... tell the other thieves... I'm sorry..." Snype gritted his teeth and punched the ground beneath him. Able flew by Snype and sat beside him. The Sableye quickly wrapped his arms around Able for comfort and continued to let his emotions fly loose. "I'll do whatever it takes Lyn... I'll help Cal lead everyone to victory."

"But, my brothers and sisters, my friends!" Cal continued. "Her death wasn't for nothing! Guardia... Lyn gave her life so we could make it back here with not one, but two of the most important pieces we need to fight Darkrai! And more await us! Soon we'll be ready to take the fight to Darkrai, his time to terrorize the world is gone! We will prevail!" He was as loud and encouraging as ever, he even got the crowd cheering. But those who'd been with the group since they left Valkaria would know how different it was from the other speeches Cal had given when it really counted, it was missing the passion. But he kept his mask on for the others at Fort Ferrol. "Everyone begin preparations! Soon I and the rest of the away team will be leaving for Karn... but first, even if we can't give her the funeral she deserves... Lyn "Guardia" Reed, one of the Gold Tribe's greatest leaders must be buried. I know many of you must think it abhorrent she be buried anywhere other than Gold City, but Fort Ferrol was the closest thing to a home any of us had during her last days, and she made it from a simple stronghold to a real staging point in the fight against chaos, and it will do."

Obsidian sighed wearily, "If she wanted us to take Darkrai down, then we'll do so. There will be a time to grieve, but now isn't the time. We'll have time for a burial and an eulogy after this war is done. Callimer, I understand that you want to show respect right now, but we have to get a move on now. Gabriel won't show remorse for this, and certainly won't give us time to see to any ceremony. Lyn gave her life for us to get this opportunity with Celebi. We can't waste it now."

Cal thought on what Obsidian had said while he watched those gathered for the announcement scatter, brow furrowed in concentration and frustration. "We won't bother with a ceremony then, but she needs to be buried at least, I won't leave her to rot in the sun. But don't worry Obsidian, your warnings don't fall on deaf ears." In a very strange breaking of the tension Cal tapped the side of his head and was reminded he didn't have ears. "Erm...antennae." Without elaborating further he walked over to Celebi, scowling and with no intention of being gentle regardless of how angry it made Snype. He even continued to carry Lyn for emphasis of his point, and because he wasn't willing to set her down until it was time for her final rest. "I want answers. Everything. You. Can. Give. Fuck your rules, fuck whatever you're afraid of. If you have anything, ANYTHING that can help me stop Darkrai, save our people, and avenge my friend. You. Will. Tell me. She died for you, you owe her your life, which means you owe her cause your life. I'd say that, plus the weight of the world beat out whatever obligations you have."

"Cel..." Snype walked up to her. "This isn't how I wanted to show you the world... not like this... I didn't want to drop you into a spot like this... but..." The Sableye paused... tears still flowing from his eyes. "After all this time, you're still keeping secrets even from me! Who's telling you what to do? There's an even higher power above you? The Watcher?" Snype asked, trying to hold himself back. He didn't want to gang up on Celebi but with the stakes this high, he had to be sure everyone was on the same page now. "Don't think I wouldn't catch that Cel. You know me well enough. Nothing escapes my eye."

Obsidian made a wider berth as he moved to get behind Celebi. He knew that she wouldn't probably run away at the moment, but at the same time she was being surrounded by a group she didn't know, who were being rather antagonistic. He couldn't just let her try to run away if she wanted to. "And by everything, he means EVERYTHING." Obsidian reiterated. "The world has been fighting Gabriel for years upon years. You owe us all just on the basis of that."

Able flew between the group, staying beside Cel. However it was mostly a means of comfort. "Cel..."

Celebi offered the group a sympathetic frown. She looked around to see that they wouldn't budge, and as she examined the body of the fallen Zangoose, she sighed and spoke in a soft voice. "What do you want to know?"

"Celebi, you shouldn't!" Vee pipped up, only to have Celebi raise her hand to stop the Victini.

"They deserve to know everything I know," Celebi replied to the VicItini.

"Then tell us everything. Starting with who made you hold your tongue, and then I want to hear everything you can tell us about how your control over time works, and how you can help us." Cal said grimly.

Celebi gazed at Snype briefly, before sighing and nodding her head. "Everyone answers to someone. Guardians answer to each other, and in part to me. I answer also to them, we balance each other out. But we all answer to the Lord of the Ancian," Celebi glanced around briefly. "Oh, you probably don't know that word, I think it's not used anymore," Celebi explained. "I like to call him the Clockmaker too."

Obsidian snorted, "We read about the Ancian, back in Anatellia. From what I remember, it's some sort of state of being, where those who worked for it could become as powerful as the legendaries themselves. Is it something, or someone though? Cause depending on that answer, we could be in deeper s**t than we realize." He looked at the others, "Remember when I told you all a while back that I found out that Gabriel was bringing something to Valkaria? Judging by what I read, I feared that it was this Ancian itself. So..." He looked back at Cel, "Is it something that Gabriel already has then? Or not?"

"There was a note in the book as well. I have the info ingrained in my head." Snype said. "When the time is right, Gabe will open the Ancian. That's what it said." The Sableye wiped a stray tear off his eye, trying not to look at the Zangoose corpse. It made him extremely uncomfortable. "The way you mentioned him... You and Vee act as if you fear it."

"So... it's a thing then." Obsidian mused. "Which means that Gabe could have it right now."

"What?!" Vee exclaimed frightfully. "Are you sure? Are you absolutely sure that's what the note said?!"

"Oh no..." Celebi lowered her head.

"Why? What's the problem?" Thomas asked the two legendaries.

"There's a lot of speak about the Ancian," Vee explained as the Victini gestured to Obsidian. "As this one explained, there are many interpretations. State of being, power. In a way, it is all those things, but in particular, there is one translation: doorway. In reality, that is exactly what it is, a physical doorway."

"To what?" Thomas inquired, somewhat anxiously.

"To a separate realm," Vee answered as it closed its eyes. "A realm inhabited by a single Pokemon. The Great Diviner. The Clockmaker. The Lord of the Ancian. The Ancian is the doorway to the realm of Arceus."

"Which means... Darkrai isn't just trying to break the Guardian cycle and kill me..." Celebi murmured and shook. "He's trying to get through the doorway..."

Vee nodded in agreement. "He's trying to kill Arceus," The Victini sighed deeply. "That must be the reason he has been trying to gather all of this chaos and power. To get enough to first open the doorway, and then to get enough to do the deed. Such a thing though..."

"But wouldn't that end the planet, and life, as we know it?" Obsidian asked. "I always believed that Arceus kept the world spinning, that without him everything would die. How could Darkrai be able to overcome the god of creation? He made this whole planet, and on top of that wouldn't that just... end existence?"

"I can only hypothesize," Vee responded as it folded its arms. "To be honest, I am not sure whether Arceus even exists, and barely know much about what their power entails. But assuming that killing him would end the world, Gabriel either intends for that to happen... or maybe take Arceus's place," Vee shook his head. "I don't really know..."

"So then why weren't you supposed to use your power to help us?" Cal demanded. "Is there anything concrete stopping you, or just the demands of the Ancian? or Arceus? Because at this point I don't intend to risk losing because even a god told me to." He finished grimly.

"I am the Watcher," Celebi answered just as grimly. "I have to choose who becomes Guardians and who doesn't. And when one dies, I am told to pick another. My power holds the key to the cycle, to keep it going. If I die, the Guardian cycle dies with me. Which is why I have to stay hidden, and which is why I can't be attached to this world like other 'mon. I'm not allowed to know what happens. I'm not allowed to know who's who, and where's what. I'm not allowed to use my power for anything except to keep me hidden. If I do, something bad happens," Celebi finished explaining. "What would have happened if I had used my power would have been far worse than if I didn't."

"Yet, you've bonded with every King of thieves since the beginning... Guess your a bit of a rebel in a way. Heh..." Snype said to her. "Somehow I doubt bonding with another was one of the big rules the Ancian had."

Celebi shook her head. "Bonding is what helped keep me safe. That's why I always told you to never tell anyone about me. And thieves were the perfect pairs. Discrete and quiet."

Snype crossed his arms and looked down with a guilty expression. "Yeah... Totally blew it there..."

"So... if he has enough power to force open the Ancian and kill Arceus..." Obsidian let his hands drop to his sides, "Then we can't beat him right now. We still need one piece of Cresselia... and you better know d**n well where it is."

Celebi shook her head and frowned. "I don't. I'm sorry. I don't know where anything in the world is... but I know who does know. The other Guardians would."

"So... you basically have no help for us. No way to give us an advantage. You're just... " Obsidian bit his tongue before he said worthless. "... needing protection. That's your only purpose right now. To be protected and to keep Gabe from getting you."

"That's not necessarily true." Cal interrupted. "We've got Vee here too. Two legendaries, between the two of them they must know where some of the other Guardians might be." Out of nowhere Cal's eyes widened and he looked right at Vee. "Wait... There's a guardian in Karn, isn't there?"

Vee nodded. "There should be. I believe you may be able to speak with one in the temples to the west of Karn."

"...This isn't quite too relevant right now but I need to know something. The Guardians, your cycle.... If we really stop Gabriel, someone else will just become Darkrai, won't they?" Cal clenched his fist. He likely already knew the answer, but he couldn't stand the thought that they'd have to deal with Darkrai forever.

"As long as there is a cycle, there will be Guardians," Celebi answered. "As long as there will be Guardians, Darkrai will be one of them. But every Darkrai wasn't bad like Gabriel. Gabriel is... different. A Guardian is supposed to protect the world, not do... this. The Darkrai before Gabriel was one of the most benevolent Pokemon I knew."

"And you gave him power, and didn't bother to leash him up." Obsidian muttered. "So... let me ask this. If we do defeat Gabe in the end and you elect someone else to be Darkrai how will we know that they won't turn out exactly like Gabe? How do we know that three hundred years down the line this whole situation won't happen again? Maybe with Darkrai, or with another guardian you elect?"

"You don't know, there is never a guarantee," Celebi replied solemnly. "But of all the Guardians I've run into, there have hardly ever been bad ones. It is rare. In fact, Gabriel is the only one I know who was."

"Sometimes, all it takes is one," Abel muttered coldly.

"She was doing a fine job being protected until you all decided to get at my throat about it..." Snype muttered to himself quietly mostly in resent to Obsidian and a bit toward Vee. He held himself back from continuing. He was sick of watching Celebi be accused in such a manner.

"I hate to cut this short but I have a bigger question now. Where's Roxanna and Ben being held at? Are they still in the fort?" Snype asked. "More importantly, isn't fort ferrol, ya know, the SECOND place Gabe would search for Celebi? He must know of the fort by now. Either through James, or Penance yapping about it when he turned traitor."

"True." Obsidian said, "We need to get Celebi to a better location. This area, even if we could defend it, is far too open. We need somewhere that can be easily defended."

"Yes, about that," Whirlwind, one of the Gold Tribe stationed at Fort Ferrol interjected. "Unfortunately, earlier while the group was out... apparently Roxanna has escaped. The guards were all found knocked out. Apparently they identified some Simisage who accomplished this single-handedly. I... was going to share before I saw Guardia..."

"That'd probably be Alai, one of Darkrai's Agents," Kaveri piped up, arms crossed and brows furrowed. "I fought him in Anatellia. He seemed to fight by absorbing abilities from berries... or something. His morals were a lot more on track than most of the other Agents - so it doesn't surprise me that he'd be against senseless killing."

"Further adding to my point. Nobody is safe here. Darkrai will keep looking for Celebi and I will bet you all of the money I have left that he'll come here next." He found it interesting that the guards were only knocked out though... Roxanna wouldn't have hesitated to kill them for sure but this Simisage character... Snype would have to look into it. "Infact..." Snype turned to Vee. "Can you sense how close Darkrai is from here? How much time do we have?"

Vee shook its head. "He's not here, and as long as the Network Point remains intact, he can't teleport in. Which means he'll have to travel from the nearest Network Point. Which I imagine buys us time. But no doubt he will come. We have to leave here. And not return."

"But where should we go?" Thomas asked. "Ferrol is compromised, we can't return to the Thieves Forest. In fact, anywhere in Valkaria is probably a bad idea. Anatellia is still suffering a civil war, probably not smart to go there either. Anyone have any suggestions?"

Obsidian let out a cough, "I know a place." He said as he crossed his arms, "It's... some distance away, but it should be a day or two if we book it. It's not much, but it's not marked anywhere. I can't say where it is right now, but we can try it. Though there are no network points near it. And that's the problem. If you guys want to get to Karn, you have to leave through the point while you're here. Getting Karn on our side is crucial more than ever now. I doubt I can go with you. They hate the organization I'm with, and Guardia was my best shot at getting inside. Without her, I doubt you could get me in, Cal. I'm not knocking on your ability to be a diplomat, but we're in a tough bind here. I can't have you wasting time trying to play negotiator to get me in with you all. So I just won't go. I can get Celebi to where it's safe, trust me on that."

"Obsidian you were just holding out your claws to her. Like hell I'm leaving her alone with you." Snype shot back to him. "No. I understand her abilities better then anyone here. I'll figure out a place to keep her safe. Even if I have to go off the grid to do it." Snype said.

Obsidian raised his brow at the Sableye's words, "Really? You think I would let all our work be destroyed because I'm a bit mad. Yeah, I threatened her, and I had a right to with what's been happening and how she's been hiding from it all. But killing her? Do you really think I would undo years upon years of work to keep this world safe? And sure, go ahead and do that. Deny us a mega stone user and a powerful combatant who could help the group out in Karn. You aren't the weakest link here, Snype. I am. That's the truth there. Once you head out of this fort you'll have to make your way to another network point to get anywhere. How long will that take?"

"We have a Victini. I wouldn't dare go near a network point after how I've seen Darkrai use them. No, she needs to be taken somewhere SEC hasn't even touched yet. I don't know where or how, but she can't stay in Valkaria, she can't stay in Tollen, Beatruce, or Antellia. The only problem is I haven't the slightest clue of the world outside of our own..."

"Well, that means you'll be out of the battle for a good long while. Gabriel will be hunting for her, and she'll need someone to keep on watching her back." He shrugged, "So if you want to, then fine."

"Obsidian's got a point, Snype," Kaveri said. "I get ya wanna protect Celebi, but with your Mega Stone, you're one of the strongest in the group right now. We're gonna need all the power we can get when we go up against Darkrai and his army."

"I have one more use with my stone. I want to save it for Darkrai. I promised I'd see it through to the end and if I blow my stone now, then that will never happen..." Snype glanced over to Lyn's body and back to the group. "...I have time to think on a strategy. I don't want to stay out of the fight but I don't want Celebi to be killed behind my back either."

"What if Able went with her? You trust her, right?" Kaveri suggested, before giving a helpless shrug to the Ninjask. "Sorry to say this, Able, but... Strength wise, compared to everyone else here, you're one of the easiest to spare."

"Wha- hey I'm right here!" Able buzzed out to Kaveri.

"She's right... but..." Snype crossed his arms and fell silent before he looked over to Celebi.

"But what?" a voice huffed from the sidelines, Silence shoving her way to the front and crossing her arms with an irritated look on her face. "You want your flitty little girl protected by someone your trust, but one of the only someone's you'd trust is a dead door-rag. The only one left is a flimsy flutterbug, sure, but we can't sit here for hours waiting for you twats to make up your mind. If you're worried about protection, I'll go along too. I might hate the guts of everyone here, but I've got my own reasons for wanting the world to survive, and if that means I've gotta defend the King of Thieves f*cking secret girly, then so be it."

Snype had almost forgotten Silence was hanging around. The Sableye crossed his arms and stared her down. "...you aren't exactly a great candidate yourself. But guess you got your wish back at the forest huh? Happy?" Snype shot back. He was growing more stressed out by the minute. He wasn't sure who to trust anymore. His emotions were mixed between Guardia's death, keeping Celebi Safe, making sure nobody would betray Snype again... The Sableye felt on the verge of bursting. The Sableye fell onto his knees, placing a hand over his head. "..."

A loud snort silenced the conversation, leading everyone to turn and stare at the Gold Tribe's new leader, who looked none too pleased with how the conversation had turned. "How could you all argue like petty little children so soon after Lyn's passing? We're going to Karn. All of us, everyone at Fort Ferrol." He announced, leaving a momentary silence to let everyone digest what he'd just said.

Snype looked up at Cal. "Wha? But Celebi! We can't bring her with us!"

"Where could she be safer than with us?" Cal demanded, turning abruptly to Snype.

"If an agent spots Celebi, Darkrai will follow! It'll be the forest all over again!" Snype shouted back.

"He already knows where we're going." Cal countered. "He knows where we are now. And most of the other places we could possibly put her he already controls or has spies in. He has little power in Karn yet, and we have to abandon Ferrol anyways if Darkrai may come here. If we don't he'll slaughter everyone we leave behind. And if we can bring Celebi and Vee to the temple in Karn maybe we could find away for them to hide in their original forms, like Gabriel does."

"..." Snype turned back to Celebi, feeling like she should have a word on it. Out of everyone in the group, Snype trusted Cal the most. "...You have a good point there... though... I feel like Celebi should get a say in all this."

"I... shouldn't go out into public," Celebi murmured. "It's against what I'm allowed, but... at this point it might be safest with you."

"I was already planning to travel with your group anyway," Vee added. "It's the least I can do after... erm, everything."

"We do have those illusion bracelets from SEC still... perhaps we could modify them to be less... erm... unstable..." Snype said. "I don't know how the public would react to legendaries traveling with us... and I especially don't want Darkrai doing the same. Though... at this point I doubt we'd be fooling him."

"But it can fool anyone else." Obsidian pointed out, "I can snag some then and see what can work. We don't need anyone freaking out over two legendaries after all. But here is the thing... we're going to Karn, where strength is admired. For the Gold Tribe and for you, Snype, it won't be that hard to get in and be respected. But from what I see, Celebi isn't really ready for battle. If we bring her in they might just push her around."

"You underestimate Celebi. The girl can send me flying with a kick to the chin. Kehe! Besides, even if she doesn't have the strength, she's resourceful. Cel is still a Legendary."

"Yeah, a legendary who lived in practical isolation her whole life, but that isn't important right now. Vee, I was thinking about something while you guys were out. Right now we have two parts of Cresselia. Lia and the queen herself. Would it be possible... if we bring them together, that they could feel for the third part wherever it is? Those two are connected by being a part of the same being, so could they sort of focus together to find the last part? Or at least feel for a more specific area for where it is?" Obsidian asked.

"Far be it for me to mention that Celebi has demonstrated little other to us than a complete and utter lack of resourcefulness..." Razathiel muttered spitefully.

Vee shrugged. "I'm not really sure, will it?" It asked Celebi.

"They would have to be sufficiently close together to do that, as in a city's distance apart. But it can be done. I doubt from here, unless it is here. Your best bet is still to ask the other Guardians. They would be able to pinpoint more closely. Guardians can feel other Guardian's presences as long as they're somewhat active."

"And you can't?" Raz grunted.

Obsidian held out a hand toward Raz, "What he said."

Celebi shook her head. "I'm supposed to detach from-"

"From all of the problems you create?" the Dreadmage snapped. "I gathered."

Once again, Obsidian held a hand toward Raz, "Again, point taken. Man, Raz, you're on a roll today."

"... from everything, including the Guardians after I choose them," Celebi concluded as she looked down with a frown.

Vee crossed its arms. "You're all way too hard on Celebi. You have no idea how much the Guardians have helped the world. I guess I can't expect it from norms, but still." Snype simply nodded with Vee. He had plenty of colorful words to say but now wasn't time to lash out.

"You have no right to speak on this, cur," Razathiel snapped again at the Victini.

"I hate to interrupt all of this, but the fact is we still need to go," Thomas stated. "Now. While Gabriel isn't here. We have to get out of Ferrol, no? We have to decide where to go."

"We really should focus on finding the rest of Cresselia's pieces after we've reached safety - saying that as a general term," Kaveri said.

"I will head to Karn with the others," the Ralts offered.

"But if we wait on finding Cress that could put us in a heard spot." Obsidian pointed out. "From what I gather, she's the only one that has a fraction of a chance of being able to beat Darkrai. We wait too long and we won't have time to find that last piece and get her up and working."

"Yeah, but if we sit here squabbling about it for too much longer, we won't even be alive long enough to look for her," Kaveri countered.

"I told you all already." Callimer interrupted with yet another draconic snort. "We are going to Karn, now and we're bringing Celebi and Vee with us, there's nowhere safer to leave Celebi and they can still help us. But we can't just leave the refugees and our other allies at Ferrol here to potentially be wiped out if Gabriel does come here looking. Wraith, Reign, Whirlwind. I want each of you to evenly divide up the soldiers and refugees we have here into a group under each of you, and each head to a different of our nearest forts and start funneling 'mon into the network points as quick as you can. Wraith, you will lead your group into Beatruce, they're our closest allies, and they have the room and should have the resources to at least support that many 'mon." That and the Beatrucians will have the patience for Wraith's... proclivities. "Reign, you'll take your group to Tollen, they owe us, they trust us right now, and while you're there you can help look after the queen. I hope I don't need to explain how important it is that she's safe. And Whirlwind, you'll be taking advantage of a resource we haven't made use of yet in the war, but I think now's about the time. Your group is going to Selar village, it's the last place we could expect Gabriel too look, and it's the place that would make the best fallback to hide in, or send Celebi to if we must. So, what does everyone think?" At the end he raised his voice a bit more and looked around for opinions and voices, though his expression left little room for argument.

"Beatruce..." Wraith repeated. "Yes, yes, Beatruce can work. The good faith you have established after curing the plague will prove extremely useful when I go to contact them. That, and the fact that we are allied with them as well as have an established Gold Tribe base there should al-"

"Shut up, Wraith!" Reign interjected from the nearby lake. He glanced at Callimer and nodded. "Yes, brother. We'll go contact the locations and make preparations."

"Selar Village, huh? Haven't been there in a while. I think ol' Juggernaut is hanging around there too. He can help us smooth things over. We're on it, brother," The Fearow stated with a nod, and took off to make preparations.

"If I may, Callimer, I would like to accompany Reign to Tollen. I don't know if I will be much help in Karn, and you can have one extra eye looking after the Queen," Thomas stated.

"That's an excellent idea Thomas." Cal answered. "I think you'll be very useful there, and you're good at navigating these types of situations too. Try to dig up what you can about the political situation in Tollen as well while Reign handles the day-to-day management, see what you can learn without letting them know how nosey we are."

"Agreed," Thomas added with a nod. "I wish you all luck in Karn. And... I hope to see you all soon," He added, before he joined the Gold Tribes'mon in departing.
 
Snype and Cal- Remembering Lyn

Snype stood in front of Guardia's grave... just staring deeply in front of him. After the recent events, Snype wasn't sure what to think anymore. Lyn was gone... and Snype was having trouble accepting it. "Lyn... I hope you're doing alright up there... you're probably looking down at me, wishing I'd stop being so sappy... kehehe..." Snype tried to form a small smile but just shook his head. "I can't believe I lead an agent into my own forest... if I just stopped to think for a second, we wouldn't be here... you'd still be alive... maybe we would be sitting by the lake and having another conversation like we always did... keheh... I always looked forward to seeing you smile for once... always did have a knack for that huh? Kehehe..." Snype said with a smile. "Honestly... its odd for the King of Thieves to admire the Gold Tribe leader as much as I do... maybe my own feelings are just influencing that... but I always looked to you when I considered my own leadership of the thieves... I..." The Sableye felt a tear roll down his eye. "D...dammit... Lyn..."

A hand laid itself slowly on Snype's shoulder, shockingly gentle for the girth of the arm it was attached to, and he heard a now-familiar voice rumble behind him. "I know... she's not an easy one to let go of." Cal stepped forward and bowed his head at the grave, thinking how she deserved better. "I don't think I've felt this way since it really hit me that my and Kav's parents were really gone... It didn't even hurt this bad when Wildfire died, back then things were relatively peaceful, and we finally had our own place in the world... I knew what Wildfire was leaving behind, and it gave me hope. Now I just feel nearly empty inside... like there's nothing left except stopping Darkrai... and Kaveri. If I lost her too..." He stopped, cringing while a sob worked it's way through his body, he fought it, managing to reduce it to a stunted grunt. "I can't lose Kav... I don't know if I could keep fighting on if I did."

Snype gritted his teeth and seemed to break down easier. "I...it's my fault..." The Sableye muttered out. "I...I should have kept closer tabs... what the hell was a thinking bringing an agent into the forest..." Snype paused and just pounded his fist into the ground. "I've destroyed my home twice now! First the Silver War, and now this! I've lead Darkrai straight into the heart of the thieves two times! Only this time... I lost one of my best friends in the process... Cal... even if we do defeat Darkrai... how am I supposed to live with myself like this?" The Sableye stared up at her gravestone and reached out to it. "I...I loved her...I..I wanted to tell her... but I couldn't... not there... it.. it didn't feel right... and now I'll never have that chance..." Tears contiued to roll down Snype's cheeks.

"That's not something I can understand properly." Cal said, pained by sympathy for the Sableye. "But I loved her too, in a different way. She was my hero, she always has been since I was still a helpless little worm Kav had to protect and raise... I always wanted to be more like her, and fight by her side, even die by her side... I got everything else I wanted from Lyn, but now I'll never get the last one." He put his hand to his forehead and let out a few pained chuckles. "It's so ironic. I was born so weak...I couldn't do anything myself. I had no arms or legs...I was so small... and it was so easy to make me cry, for a long time I was only happy when Kav read me stories. I couldn't do anything without her. And now... here I am. Taking Lyn's place at what may be the biggest crossroads our world has ever seen... and my leader, one of the only anchors I had left is gone. How am I supposed to get us through this without her?"

Snype wiped his eyes and just seemed to keep on crying. He couldn't hold anything in... it felt like he was just going to keep on going. "...Before I became the king... before the Silver War... Lyn used to visit the forest all the time. Keheheh... she was so fiesty, and a little gullable on top of that. I used to play pranks on her all the time and would mislead the gal all over the forest. She hated me, but at the same time, we formed a really strange friendship over it. She always managed to get a jab back at me and boy did it hurt. Keheh..." Snype pulled out a tiny smile before being pulled back into his sorrow again. "She'd always call me childish, or a "total ass"... keheh... between our missions, we'd always sit by that lake and just talk the day away. I wanted to help her... I wanted to be by her side till the end... every time she mentioned the duty of being a leader she was always so stressed out. I felt bad. I felt that if I backed her up then perhaps I'd see a bit more of Lyn rather then Guardia..." Snype paused a moment. "But now I've lost both of them... All I have now is Celebi... but I even betrayed her in the end."

Cal stared at the floor, wishing he didn't have to answer. "You were with her until the end, and she'll never forget that, or you, wherever she is. And as for Celebi, she knows you did right by her. You did everything you could, the world's falling apart and you managed to keep her safe this long. Darkrai would have found her eventually, you made sure that when he did, it wasn't the end of her. And now you're not the only one keeping her safe. We all are...together." He was reminded of something when he finished and turned back to Snype resolutely. "And you can't keep acting like the rest of us are all a bunch of ravenous Sharpedo waiting for our chance to tear into her, we can't afford any infighting now of all times."

Snype looked back at Cal with a guilty expression. "C...cal I..." Snype just grew more guilty. "Dammit... the way I yelled at all of you back at the forest... I thought all of you were after her when she told me another was following us... I... I just wanted to keep her safe... Celebi is the world to me. If I lost her... then... well..." Snype shook his head. "...Oh Arceus... Cal I'm sorry... I'm sorry... I'm sorry... I even pointed my finger at Lyn... of all mon... The Sableye fell to his knees and clung onto his head. "I can't believe you still want me around after all of this. How can you trust me after I've held the most vital part of our adventure in the heart of my own home for so long? When I found out she was the watcher... well... I became terrified. What would happen if all of you found out... after everything I've hidden from the Gold Tribe." Snype stared Cal in the eye. "Just what do you see in me Cal? Who the hell have I become out of all this? I can't even look at myself and say I'm the King of Thieves anymore!"

"The thieves still exist Snype." Cal reminded him. "And you're the one who got them this far, and who put his life in such danger to make sure they were warned when Celebi was under attack. Able's support should be proof you're still the King of Thieves... Not that I've ever found it a very nice title. I've seen more than enough of you on this journey to know you're more than a thief, even if you can get a bit overexcited. And more importantly, Lyn trusted you. Besides, not to be harsh but it seems right now that the only importance Celebi holds to our cause is her life itself. So by protecting her you were helping to properly utilise one of our most vital pieces. Now I'm worried about Abel though..." Cal stared at the ground again and clenched both of his fists. "I'm the one who... Anzu, she.... I don't see how Abel could ever forgive me, let alone follow my orders. I wish there was something I could do to help him... He's so strong to keep fighting. If I lost Kav... I think I might go a completely different kind of feral than the plague victims... a ravenous beast who existed only to kill Gabriel. I'd either die trying, or I'd find a way to finish him off and then just... fade away."

Snype felt a small part of himself snap when he listened to Cal speak his mind out. "...Sound's alot like me. If I lost Celebi well... we'd be dealing with another madman..." Snype said as he sat down and held his knees against his chest. "You and I aren't so different in that regard then Cal... we've almost lost our entire world... and now we both have the one thing we want to protect over everything else... Kav, Cel..." The Sableye rubbed his head a bit. "Way back when Cal... among our entire group... I always did like you the most... something about you just seemed to say "I could put the weight of the world on this mons shoulders..." and I figured you would respond "How about you throw another world on top while your at it?" Snype said with a small laugh.

"I don't know about that." Cal answered with a laugh of his own. "Personally I liked it a lot better when I had someone older and wiser telling me what to do... I hate all this responsibility... but I can't give it to anyone else either. Guardia chose me... and Kav is with me the whole way, and I believe you are too. That's enough for me, besides, I can't wait to hear what Raz comes up with the next time I piss him off now that I'm the leader of the "Goldies". Maybe I'll even call him "Ralph" or "Razzle Dazzle" in honor of Guardia."

"Keheh! Ralph? If you really wanna honor Lyn here, you gotta get more creative then that! She went out of her way to get his name wrong all the time. You don't even have to make it close! Call him Robert or something! That'll get him real mad!" Snype said with a wide grin. "Kehehe... ahh... oh... geez... I just laughed... keheh..."

Cal nodded. "That's right, you did. Because life goes on, it has to. And do you think she'd want us moping around like lost Growlithes? Do you think she could rest at peace if giving her life meant the rest of us all being miserable, and losing grip on what it means to be happy? Things like laughing... they're the best things we can do to honor her. We've got to laugh even louder to make up for her missing voice. Hit even harder for her missing fist... And love even more for her missing heart." Now even the big green guy was starting to tear up, all philosophical and waxing poetic like he was. "That, and we have to protect the pokémon under our charges, the 'mon she protected, all the stronger for missing her as a bulwark to the defenseless."

As guilty as Snype still felt... Cal's words still seemed to hit him strong enough. He noticed the tear going down Cal's eye and reached up to pat his hand. As far as he could reach anyway. Snype just seemed to stare at him intensely, starting to tear up again himself. "Letting it all out is a good way to start...Cal." Snype said, trying to hold that wide grin of his.

Cal stopped a sob from racking through his body and shook his head, turning pointedly away from the grave, and all the flowers, berries, and gifts that had been left by it. "No, we've got important things to deal with. We need all of Fort Ferrol packed up before Gabriel has a chance to catch up, or to follow us to Karn. We can't just sit here and cry, and reminisce all day. We still have 'mon who need us, even more now than before."

Snype felt a tear roll down his eye when he listened to Cal... The way he lectured him... "Lyn..." Snype muttered out. "She would have said the same thing to me right now... Lyn was right. She really couldn't have picked a better mon to lead us." Snype stepped toward Cal and stood beside him.

"That means a lot to me." The Emerald Sentinel muttered solemnly. "Come on!" He called. taking the first few steps down the hill and back towards the Fort proper. "Let's get to work!"

"Kehehe." Snype grinned as he hopped onto Cal's shoulder. "Lead on Sentinel." The Sableye remebered Lyn's final request...to put everything aside, what he was, whatever secrets he may have kept, keep it all aside and promise to make it through till the end and defeat Darkrai. Being by Cal's side and helping him lead the Gold Tribe seemed like the best way he could return the favor. He felt more like a Guardian now than a thief. He swore to do his part to keep everyone alive until Gabe was destroyed.
 
The Group Prepares To Go To Karn And Then They Do
Featuring the group and also some network psychics​


Ferrol was a blur of activity, with pokémon running about to and fro all over the place, preparing to evacuate to their various destinations. The only place in the entire Fort with any semblance of quiet was the network point, where Callimer "Emerald Sentinel" Vian, the Valkarian Gold Tribe's new leader awaited the rest of his team to gather. He tapped his foot, looking much more serious and tense than he normally did before missions, presumably because of his new responsibilities.

"Ready to go," Vee stated as he walked over to the large Dragonite. On his back, he carried a backpack nearly twice as big as himself, yet he seemed to be handling it relatively easily.

"I'm all set." Snype simply stated. He seemed to be holding Guardia's Gold Tribe emblem in his hand. He looked down at it and then back up to Cal. "S-sorry I know it isn't proper for me of all folks to wear something like this b-but... I thought I'd ask you first Cal..."

Despite the overbearing seriousness of their situation, Kaveri had somehow made enough time to scrounge up a two packs full of candied berries and cakes, one of which she hung on Cal's arm. "It's got all your favorites in there. We're in for a long trip, so there might as well be something nice to go with it," she said, her tone lacking her usual cheerful chirp and her eyes tired, but a small smile still on her muzzle.

Cal smiled back at Kav and squeezed her arm. Then nodded to Snype. "I think she'd like you to have it. But I hope you understand Snype, that's not just Guardia's, it's also a symbol of loyalty to a cause, even if you aren't one of us you're making a serious commitment if you wear that. And I'll hold you to it."

Snype didn't hesitate to put the emblem on his cloak. "I promised I'd see this through to the end. I plan to uphold her last request. I'll fight by your side till the end, Sentinel." Snype said, placing his hand over the badge.

"Then I'm glad to allow you to honor Lyn's memory with her emblem." Cal finish solemnly.

Obsidian made his way to the group, his pack on his back. "I managed to pick up some of the bracelets," he explained. "It depends on her what she wants to use. So... before we go, you should probably message the king about who is coming. I think it would be best if he knows we're not all Gold Tribe right from the start. But that's just my opinion. It's up to you how we do this." The Weavile said to Callimer.

Cal's brow furrowed once again at mention of the king. "I've already spoken with a representative from Karn. He was surprised it wasn't Guardia contacting him. We always knew we'd have to fight in Karn, but now it looks like we'll have to do more to prove ourselves. I'm not known in Karn at all, so we're going in with little respect in our corner at first. I did let them know it wasn't all brothers and sisters of the tribe, they don't seem to care. They only care that we're strong, and I have every intent to show them that we are."

"We've been through hell and back. Keh. Hell I killed an agent. Maybe I'll win a few points there as the "Hero of Beatruce" eh? Kehe" Snype said.

"Hold your tongue, minion," Razathiel said with a scowl, before sighing and straightening himself. "If I need to kill a few rowdy Karnians to cement my status, I'm more than happy to do so. I've more than enough steam to let out."

Obsidian bit his lower lip, "Prove ourselves? Er... do you know of any other way to get some respect? I know Karn is all into strength and all... and I mean I think I'm strong, but nowhere near Gold Tribe level."

"If you find yourself being killed, just let me know," the wizard huffed. "I'll deal with them. Then instead of one of our members being recognized as weak, I'll be recognized as more strong - which is a net win, as much as it pains me to be rescuing any of you pathetic clods."

"What's important is that we prove we're strong as a group." Sentinel corrected. "That's what will help us establish a foothold in Karn and gain us real respect... And I guess since I'm more or less in charge now I'll especially have to prove myself, but I know we're more than strong enough to handle it. We need to try to be fast and efficient when we get to Karn though. Karn's held off Darkrai's forces up till now, but you can bet with us going in there, especially with Celebi he'll be pushing harder than ever. And we can't afford to destabilize Karn's forces when we get there and allow Gabe to sweep through the place. So the way I see it we need to focus on getting two things done as fast as possible: Getting Vee and Celebi to the temples, and beating down some of Karn's generals to secure their forces for ourselves."

"If we wanna go to the temples, then we have to ask to go," Abel chimed in as he arrived with the group. "Guardia told me: nothing and nobody travels through Karn without first going to see the Emperor. So that's probably our best bet. A little bonus about going to the temples... guess which Agent controls that area?"

"Oh boy." Sentinel grumbled sarcastically.

"The one we decided to leave alive in spite of my advice?" Razathiel grumbled.

Sentinel shot Raz an uncharacteristic glare. "James was useful to us, we may not have even gotten this far without him. And even if we had, all that he's done for us by now outweighs the price of his betrayal... It was because of Gabriel that Guardia was lost to us, not James. But he'll be punished for his part in it, and then he'll be useful to us again. At least we know who we need to see after we meet with the Emperor, and I've been waiting a long time to meet him."

"Will he even let us in though?" Obsidian asked. "If he's back with Gabriel, then that means making sure our goal isn't reached. Not only that, but if we arrive with Vee and Celebi, even disguised, won't he know something's off? This could be rather dangerous if we bring Celebi there."

"It can't hurt to try!" Vee exclaimed as it stepped forward to the Network Point. "I never traveled on one of these. Very interesting," It stated as the Victini adjusted its backpack.

"Darkrai or not, James is bound by Karn's laws now that he's back there acting as a general again. He may try to stop us from getting to him in the first place, but that will only earn us more respect when we throw it back in his face. And we don't have to bring Vee or Celebi with us to meet the Emperor or James. Our first meeting with the Emperor is likely to be a fairly innocuous one by Karn's standards, and all we need to do with James is beat him. Each one will only require a decent-sized group. Don't forget we're not just here for the temples or the last piece of Cresellia, we're here for Karn's armies. And for that, we'll have to beat as many of the generals as we can... and maybe even the Emperor himself, we'll have plenty to do while we're there." Sentinel explained.

"I've never been to the Karn," Celebi stated with a bit of excitement. "What's it like?"

"Like a never-ending war," The Grumpig from the Network Point stated jokingly. "Is everyone ready to go?"

"Ready," Raz grunted. "Let's be off, before I vomit from all these disgustingly merciful attitudes or murder someone for being too sickeningly excitable..."

The Grumpig psychic nodded. "Let me make my usual warning for anyone going into Karn. First, it might not seem like much at first because there's nothing around, but be ready for anything. Karn is harsh. Second, if you see any Karnian, be ready for a fight. Any Karnian. I mean any. Age, size, doesn't matter. Third, navigation's a little hard, so to get to the capital, go east, and after that just... follow the smoke," The Network psychics closed their eyes. "Connecting to the Karnian Network Point.... connection established. Sending you now... good luck," In a familiar, brilliant flash of light, the group in Fort Ferrol disappeared.

Once Abel had reappeared, he felt a terrible chill across his spine. As he opened his eyes, beyond the others beside him, all he saw was a heavy downpour of snow and hail, and white as far as the eyes could see. Temperatures were harsh, to say the least, which made bringing his fur he acquired from Anatellia worthwhile. Beside Abel were the Karnian Network Psychics, who were bundled up around both the Network Machine and a fire that was barely alive. They looked miserable.

"Welcome to hell!" One of the Network Psychics, a Kadabra, yelled with a laugh. The other psychics laughed after them. "Bring any food? I'm f*cking starving!"

Kaveri squinted through the falling snow and hail, rubbing her arms at the sudden chill. Luckily she still had her cloak from Tollen, so it wasn't completely unbearable. "I did, actually," Kaveri chirped at the psychic, walking over and swinging the pack off her back. "Any preferences? I've got just about every kind of berry and cake imaginable stuffed in here."

Obsidian glanced about, not really all that bothered by the weather, "Huh, this isn't half bad." He noted. "Feels really nice." Silence readily agreed with the other Weavile, even stretching leisurely in the refreshing cold.

The Emerald Sentinel was not handling the cold as well as his sister, or Obsidian, but he didn't let himself complain. He hefted the pack Kaveri had brought him and smiled invitingly at the psychics. "Any chance you guys have anything warm in my size? I'd gladly trade some snacks for it." He knew it wasn't likely unless they had a Rhydon around, but he figured it was worth a shot.

"Ah, the cold," the Dreadmage mused. "Rather liberating to feel the same way inside and out."

Cythera didn't seem to feel the same way. "I g-g-get the Ice t-types, but you're c-crazy..." She managed to tell Raz through her chattering teeth before turning to the Psychics. "Any ch-chance you guys have anything warm in my size?" The Ferrothorn she was sitting on seemed completely unbothered by the weather.

Snype turned to Celebi. "Kehehe, you cold over there Cel? Need your cloak back?" Snype asked with a grin.

"Y-yes, p-please," Celebi stated as she shivered beside the Sableye.The Sablye removed his cloak and handed it over to Celebi.

"Here ya go Cel. Kehehe... it looks harsh out here. Stay close alright? This is probably the last place I would have wanted to show ya... but looks like this will have to be your intro to the outside world." Snype said as he was about to put the cloak around Celebi. Celebi nodded silently as she examined the cold around.

The Kadabra laughed. "Hah! We hardly have enough cloaks to warm ourselves! You want one? Go find a Piloswine and skin him for his!"

"Yeesh, that's cold, Carl," One of the other Psychics, an Espeon muttered.

The Kadabra turned to the Espeon. "Eh... Yeah I guess... been in Karn for waay too long... sorry boys and girls, we got nothing. Maybe they got some in the capital. You go east. Then, ya follow the smoke."

"So we've been told." Sentinel said.

"I suppose if you're all going to freeze to death, I'm somewhat obliged to prevent that," Razathiel murmured, tapping his staff once on the ground to open his Magic Room. From within flew out two other cloaks identical to Raz's that sped towards Cythera and Snype respectively, a large, rectangular piece of fabric which may have once been curtains or a carpet which collapsed onto Callimer, and an Aspear berry each for everyone present. Cythera gave a quick thanks as she hurriedly bundled herself up.

"So... have any Blazikens or Greninjas come through this way recently?" Obsidian asked. "Or... say, Zoroarks?"

"Zoroarks and Greninjas no, but General James passed through here recently after a long time," The Kadabra muttered and clenched his teeth over the berry. He gave a minor salute to Raz. "Friggen cold... just today actually, not too long ago. He went north. And he went fast."

"Good to know, he should be home when we visit." Sentinel grumbled. "Thanks Raz. Is everyone ready to go? If we stay out here too long my wings are going to freeze." He pulled the fabric around him tight, focusing on his wings first.

"Ready as ever," the Ralts wizard affirmed. "Remember, everyone, the real me is the one dressed in plate mail and with glowing red eyes."

"The smoke is pretty easy to see." Obsidian observed. "So yeah, I'm ready too. I suppose."

"Good luck, guys. Bring back food!" The Kadabra shouted after the group.
 
Kaveri, Snype, and Silence - At some rest point or another

Just a Friendly Chat

​

Snype seemed to be walking around the campground, despite the fact it was freezing... His mind was still stuck on Lyn. After his conversation with Cal he certainly felt a lot better but... it would take a lot more then that for him to get over her death. He just needed to get his mind off of things and figure out how to focus on what was ahead. "Guess getting some wood for the fire wouldn't hurt... keh..." Snype said as he stared up into the sky blankly.

A furry, bright blue and silver face suddenly popped up in his line of sight, Kaveri staring down at the Sableye with a bemused look. "You alright there, Snyppy? You seem a bit dazed."

"Wha!" Snype shouted when Kaveri popped in front of him. "K-Kav! H...hey there..." Snype said with a bashful grin. "Kehehe... u-uh... what brings you out here?" Snype asked.

Kaveri shrugged. "I saw you wander off on your own without saying anything to anyone. Just wanted to make sure you were alright. I mean... a lot did happen all at once."

Snype crossed his arms and sat down by a nearby stump. "Keh... well to be honest I'm still far from alright. I chatted with Cal awhile back and it certainly helped me focus but... I can't get my mind off of it. I keep asking myself, "What if I did something different..." The Sableye gave off a sigh. "Maybe if I took things more seriously from the beginning... keh... instead I used my time expanding the thieves, playing small gags and even doing some silly prank about dating you. Kehehe." Snype said with a small shrug. "Though Lyn did like that part about me. Everyone was always so focused and dead on their task and I was around to at least ease everyone up a little... I doubt she'd want me to change just because she's gone. What do you think?" Snype asked.

"I think if it wasn't for mon like you and I around, the tension would have been too unbearable," Kav put in, resting a sympathetic paw on Snype's shoulder. "Too much stress muddles the mind. There always needs to be a joker or two around to create some laughter, clear some minds. And really... I don't think you could have done anything better than you already did. Think about it - one way or another, Gabriel would have found Celebi with or without us leading him there. At least this way, we were there to stop him. Even if...," here she had to pause and take a breath to steady herself," ...Even if it did cost the life of one of the greatest Pokemon to have ever lived. Guardia would be glad to know that her death wasn't meaningless."

Snype turned his head to Kav and smiled at her. "...Thank's Kav... You might be right there. Keh... she always did pull off a smile whenever I was up to my shenanigans." Snype said with a small laugh. "It'll take me awhile to get back to my old self I'd think. Keheh... actually haven't really been all for fooling around ever since I found out Celebi was the watcher in the first place."

"Maybe this will help ya," Kaveri said, reaching under her float and pulling out a small pouch that she passed over to Snype. Inside would be an assortment of chopped berries mixed with what seemed to be small, crystalline stones. "I meant to give it to you when I visited you and Cal on your sick beds in Beatruce, but it wasn't ready in time - getting all the gems in there was a bit difficult when I had to help organize all the refugees flooding into Fort Ferrol, heh. I just hope it's to your tastes."

Snype reached into the pouch and pulled out the various berries and crystal stones mixed within. Snype didn't hesitated to throw one into his mouth and gave it a taste. The Sableye gave off a satisfied noise from his mouth as soon as the taste hit his tongue. "Mmm... Kav... you went through all this trouble for me? Keheh... geez nowadays I can never go digging for gems like these. Its delicious."

Kaveri's sat a little straighter and her chest puffed out slightly, quite obviously gleeful at the King of Thieves of approval. "It was fun looking for them really - kinda like a treasure hunt. Oh, uh... I guess gems like those technically are treasure, huh?" she chortled. Plopping down on the tree stump next to Snype, she draped an arm over his shoulders. "But hey, fellow comedians gotta watch out for each other, right? If you ever need anything from me, just let me know."

Snype smiled up at Kaveri as he kept on eatting away. "Kehehe... thanks Kav. You're a real pal. Kehehe. Always did like that mischievous attitude you had on ya! Back in Gold City I was surprised to see someone so bold as to try pickpocketing me! Kehehe... time sure flys huh? I really gotta pay you back sometime."

"Well, if you really wanna-"

"Already running off with another girly so soon after the death of your old one, eh, Snype?" a voice purred from shadow of a tree, interrupting Kaveri. Silence stepped out into the open with a sneer on her face. "Ah, then again, if you really wanted that Goldie, I supposed you wouldn't have brought about her death. How many f*ck ups is this now?"

"Eh...?" Kaveri looked over at Silence with an annoyed frown. "Come on, not cool, we're not... doing anything. Like that." She shook her head, collecting herself quickly to prevent another flustered response. "Who the hell are you anyways?" She'd only seen the Weavile around a few times, and only briefly - the only time she'd ever even heard Silence talk was when they were debating what to do after Guardia's death. All she knew was that she was some kind of mercenary or something.

Snype sneered at Silence when she made mention to "running off with another girl". "Silence, I really don't need this right now. We're just chatting." Snype shot back. He wondered how Silence found out of Snyp'es feelings toward Guardia... must have spread around the fort. It was kind of obvious anyways.

"Chats can very often lead to... implications," Silence said with a small shrug. "And really, you think the little miss there would really go to all that trouble just for some old Sableye?" She added, motioning to Kaveri who let out a small cough. "When there are so many mon available to cozy with, a gal doesn't do something like that for you unless you reeeaaally mean something to them - or they have some sort of ulterior motive."

"Excuse me, I would never do any such thing!" Kaveri shot back indignantly, her fur more than a little ruffled. "Snype and I just... happen to share many common interests. Why wouldn't we talk about them?"

Silence raised a brow at the Floatzel. "Oh really? That's it?"

Snype just looked over to Kaveri and back to Silence. "Is it so wrong for two friends to talk about the future? I stopped to talk with alot of folks back at the Fort... this is no different." Snype said.

Relaxing herself, Kaveri nodded in agreement with Snype. "Yeah. Besides, its against my instincts to just ignore a companion in need of comfort. I would've done the same for anyone else in the group." Though, hmm... now that she thought about it, a good deal of her time outside of missions had been rather focused on Snype.

"Is that so? Well, that's a shame. Considering your only competition is gone now, you could've had a clear shot, right into his arms. Just a bit more 'friendly talks' like this, and you could've easily replaced Guardia in his eyes," Silence said as she casually put her hands behind her head, leaning back against a tree. And as much as Kaveri was trying not to let the Weavile's words bother her, her eyes still narrowed into a growl.

"Don't go talking about Guardia like she doesn't even matter anymore. Dead or alive, she started this cause, and if you don't wanna get the boot or strangled, you'd best remember that," the Floatzel growled, standing up to look more imposing. "Besides, I would never stoop to that kind of level, and I especially wouldn't use something like the death of my goddamn leader to my advantage."

Snype glanced over to Kaveri. Something about that way she was saying all of that threw him off a moment... though he was quickly distracted by how annoying Silence was being right now. "If I had half a mind I'd strangle you right now... but I won't." Snype said to Silence. "...You can say whatever helps you sleep at night. Blame it all on me if you have to. I realize I've made horrible mistakes in the past that have affected everyone around me... including you. But... none of that will matter if Darkrai wins. I can't make up for my own sins if he still exsists." Snype stated calmly.

Silence clapped slowly. "Keeping a level head... Good job," she said, before her sneer finally disappeared. "Maybe ya should try keeping that, instead whining like a half-a**ed lil' b*tch all the time. Your girl's dead, that's all fine and well. But I hate to break it to ya: you aren't the only one who's lost someone or had some terrible sh*t happen to you. So if you really wanna help out big, imposing, and green Mr. Giant, get your head out of your a** and focus on the now. I don't want this whole thing to flop cause you can't stop crying and picking at your own faults. Leave the criticizing to me and the short wizard. You're supposed to be some kinda leader or some sh*t, aren't you?" Silence snorted, turning away and waving a clawed hand at them. "Feh. Have fun with your eloping. I'm gonna dig up some grub."

"Geez, what's her problem?" Kaveri huffed after Silence had left.

"I hate to say but she does have a point..." Snype sat back down and crossed his arms. "I guess something happened to her awhile back in the thieves forest. Ever since then, she's hated my guts... Maybe after all of this I can talk with her and figure out what to do..." Snype said with a sigh. "Keheh... sorry about that. She's kind of a bold gal... no subtly with that one." Snype said, remembering back on all of the "getting cozy" comments. It annoyed Snype that she would think one of his teamates would do such a thing.

"Well good luck to you with that one," Kaveri snorted, glancing over at him. "Though, ah... I guess with how often we're around each other, I suppose it's understandable that there would be misunderstandings. And I'm sure our joke didn't help matters." She chuckled, sheepishly rubbing the back of her head.

"Kehehe... yeah I spose your right on that. Guess we werent fooling Cal too much with all of that either eh? Keheh..." Snype said with a small laugh. "To think she'd say that stuff to you... keh... She's such an ass."

"Well... maybe it's not all bad. At least we know our joke was a long-living one," Kaveri said with a small shrug, before cracking a grin at Snype. "As long as no one's expecting any wee little Buizel or Sableye running around. At that point, I would be extremely worried."

"Kehehehe! I spose your right!" Snype said with a wide grin before turning to Kaveri. He was tempted to make a joke about their shenanigans but right now didn't seem to feel right for it. Instead he just reached his hand and placed it on Kav's shoulder. "Uh... thanks for cheering me up Kav. Oh and uh... thanks for the berries. Almost forgot how good gems tasted. Keheh..."

Kaveri slapped a paw against Snype's back, still grinning despite the ache spreading through her chest. She was a master at putting on facades, after all - and before long, she hoped this face would become as truly a part of her as her upbeat personality, so that it would no longer be pretend. "Anytime. We should probably get back before we freeze to death now, eh?"

"Kehehe, yeah I forgot I was gonna grab some wood for the fire. That was one of the the reasons I came out here in the first place! Kehe! Wanna snag some on the way back?" Snype asked.

"Good idea," Kaveri chirped, already shuffling away to the nearest tree to search for any dry, fallen branches. "Let's not take too long, though. My nose feels like it's about to freeze off."

"Kehehe, don't worry we should only need a few." Snype said with a wide grin. The two would gather their fair share of branches and eventually make their way back to the camp, tossing the wood right on inside and further strengthening the fire. "That should do it. Keheh... uh... I actually have a few others I need to chat with. Seems like a good time now that I"m in a somewhat better mood. I'll see you around. Kav. Take care." Snype said, patting her arm and making his way back to his own tent to gather his stuff.

Kaveri stared at the crackling fires for a long moment, before she turned to Snype, seemingly about to say something. As he excused him, though, she gave him a light-hearted smile instead. "Sure thing. See ya around, Snype."
 
Snype and Celebi
A Vision
​

Snype had about enough of sitting out in the cold for the night. He decided to just bundle up in his tent for the time being and warm up in a couple of blankets. The robe he got from Raz certaintly helped but he did kinda miss wearing Celebi's... still it wasn't his to begin with. Twas only fair.

Celebi, even bundled up in the cloak, was shivering tremendously. She was obviously not used to the extreme weather conditions of Karn, having spent so long in normal conditions of forests for the good part of a few decades, if not more. She rubbed her arms as her teeth trembled without pause.

"Heya Cel..." Snype said, feeling a bit weird talking to her after the incident in the forest. "Hey if you wanna bundle up I got room. If it isn't weird for ya." Snype said. "Best way I can think of to warm up. Sorry. Kehe."

Celebi reflexively scooted closer to Snype but continued to shiver. She didn't look up at the 'mon, however. Her eyes remained fixed on the ground. "... I'm sorry Snype. About your friend...."

Snype scooted closer and wrapped his blanket around her so the two would be snugged up together. "Cel no... I should be sorry... I betrayed your trust. Hell I lured Darkrai into our home like an idiot."

"It's not like you knew..." Celebi responded with a frown. "I was there, right in front of her. I don't if I could have but... maybe if I did something, she may still be here," Celebi sighed. "I sometimes wish I didn't have all of this..."

"Cel... Please don't blame this on yourself... Gabe is the one at fault... And James for betraying us..." Snype said.

"And who was the one who chose Gabriel to become a Guardian?" Celebi turned to the Sableye tearfully.

"Cel you didn't know... There's no way you could have known he would do something like that..." Snype snuggled against her more closely for warmth.

Celebi sniffled and shook her head. "I know but... I still can't help but feel this way. I never chose this life, but so many would suffer if I did anything differently. Sometimes I wish..." She cut herself off and shook her head again, before she turned to snype once more. "Don't go to the capital, Snype. Just go back and look after your own in the forest! They need your help there," She implored the Sableye.

"Cel...I can't do that. The minute I wore Lyns badge I dedicated myself to this cause... I sounded the siren for the thieves to evevacuate. Who knows where everyone is at now..." Snype said with a sigh. "Besides, I can't leave your side Cel. I may have botched but I'm still sworn to protect you."

"Forget about me, Snype!" Celebi exclaimed. "I'll be fine! I've hidden from the world for this long! I can keep doing it for much longer! But if you go to Ka-.... just please, don't go there, Snype. Please?"

Snype Just have her a firm glare. "Cel I'm not going to run away while the world burns... I guess with being hidden in the forest so long you still need to learn how things work out her Cel." Snype said. "I understand if your worried about me Cel. Karn is a pretty scary place and all but don't worry. I know my way around a fight. I'm not the king for nothing "

"It's not just that, Snype," Celebi muttered. "You just have to trust me on this. I don't... I don't want you to go to Karn," She stated with a pout. "Don't go," She said almost as an order.

"Cel...?" Snype asked in a worried tone. "...What is it that you aren't telling me here...? What will happen if I go...?"

Celebi merely turned away and placed her hood over her face. "Nothing, nothing. I just don't want you to go..."

"Celebi no. You aren't going to keep doing this sort of thing. If there's something in Karn that will put me in extreme danger then please tell me..." Snype reached a hand over her shoulder and moved her hood back down to stare her in the eye. "I just want you to be honest with me Cel...Please..."

"I can't Snype... you know my power, I'm not allowed to use it or say anything... " She averted her gaze more and continued to stare at the ground.

"Or something terrible will happen... Right right..." Snype said with a sigh. "That Ancian or whatever is a real ass for putting you on such a tight leesh like this..." Snype said with a sigh. "Don't act like you haven't cheated and used your powers without permission though. You've used your ability to see into the future quite a few times back then. What's to say you can't go off and cheat again? I thought I taught ya better Cel. Keheh." Snype said with a grin. "...Unless this is what this is about. You saw in the future when we came to Karn didn't you?"

"I only ever used it whenever it involved me personally," Celebi explained. "That was before, this time, I used it on you guys... it's different. It's not allowed," She stated. "If I tell you... you must promise me you won't tell the others. You have to promise me, Snype! If you do tell, something far worse will happen. That is the way of the world."

Snype felt extremely worried now... knowing that he may see a vision of a the future once more. "...Cel... whatever you saw, I'll be able to change it. I did it once and I'll do it again."

Celebi shook her head. "You have to promise me, Snype. I need to hear you say it."

Snype looked down to the ground and back up to Celebi. "...I promise Celebi..."

Celebi nodded and sighed. Her eyes began to water a bit. "I saw into the future with you all and... all of you will go into the capital and the cities... but one of you will not make it back. For one of you, this will be your final resting place."

Snype's eyes widened... as he seemed to back away from Celebi in fear. "...I... I was afraid you would say something like that...You don't know who? Cel I can protect them. If I have to Mega Evolve to do so then I will!"

Celebi barely managed to look toward the Sableye. She was on the verge of tears, but quickly used the sleeve of her cloak to wipe them off. "... Don't go there, Snype," She repeated.

"...Me..." Snype said with a hint of fear as he just stared down at the ground blankly. "...No... Cel I...I can change it! I won't get myself killed in Karn! I kept you from being captured! I can change this too!" Snype said, trying not to tear up himself. "...Do you at least... know how it'll happen?"

"... It is constantly changing..." Celebi muttered as she sniffled. "But one common thing was the same. A Pokemon called Edgar was involved," Celebi shook her head. "I don't know anything else for sure beyond that. Sometimes another name pops up too. Xander. And then sometimes James. But the first name is the biggest clicker."

"Edgar... I know of the last two but not Edgar..." Snype crossed his legs and just faced his head down. The cold didn't seem to be bothering him anymore now... "...Cel... I don't want to believe they'll be the death of me... I swore to see this to the end... I know the future seems terrifying but... well... that's just how life has been out here Cel... I've met the brink of death more then enough times on this adventure. Snype said before looking up to Celebi. "That just means... I'll have to be extra careful around this Edgar fellow... whoever he is. If I ran away then nobody would forgive me. And Darkrai would just kill all of us either way." Snype rubbed his arm.

"But... its still scary... I'm afraid even if I did leave... well... what it ends up being someone else?!"

"... I... it probably will be..." Celebi muttered. "My predictions aren't always accurate, but they always state something that's certain. And that is... don't make me repeat it. And don't don't tell anyone else! You absolutely can't!"

"Cel... I won't make them worry over me. I'll find a way to fix it... I've spit in deaths face before. I know you felt it while I was in Tollen." Snype said.

"This isn't the same..." Celebi responded grimly. "I'm bonded to you, remember? I could feel what you feel wherever you went, even if I didn't know the place. But this place... this place is something else. It's... there's so much pain here. Both what was already here and what is being brought in. I know for sure for a lot of you this will be the biggest fight yet. I could feel it... I'm just scared, Snype...."

Snype walked up to Celebi and wrapped both his arms and blanket around her... He was tearing up a bit himself. "...so am I Cel... Not just your vision but... Just..." Snype paused. "I almost lost you back there Cel... I don't want to lose you to that monster Darkrai..."

Celebi sniffled and shook her head. "You won't... just promise me I won't lose you too."

"I swear... I'll see this through to the end. I won't let you and Lyn down. That's a promise." Snype said as he used a bit of the blanket to wipe Celebis years off. "Kehe, comon, don't cry Cel... How about another story huh? I'll keep you warm through the night."

"Mmm... maybe later," Celebi responded as she continued to shiver. "I don't want to hear one here... not here."

"Alright then. I'll just keep you warm then." Snype said with a wide grin. "... I hate to bring the topic back but... If someone else learns of your visions or if you used your powers... What happens? Just why are you and Vee so afraid?"

"Bad things," Celebi repeated. "My powers... they're very dangerous sometimes. I'm only allowed to use them to defend myself, or in very special occasions. Because they are so strong, they have the potential to throw off the balance of the world. That's what the entire Guardians are about," She explained. "Whenever aspects of the Guardian's jurisdiction are thrown off, its up to that Guardian to balance it out again. Whenever a Guardian acts out, it's up to the other Guardians to keep them in check. But whenever I use my powers for the wrong reason, the problem... corrects itself. Because no one technically knows me or controls me, the power will control itself... it's hard to explain until someone tries to tempt it. If you told anyone about this, my guess is nothing would actually happen. But if you told them, and then they acted, then something would happen. It's all about balance, about equivalence. And action for an act."

"I see... Well I can still use the abilities you gave me rule free! There has to be some kind of loophole...but of its really that dangerous then I won't trouble you on it. I already caught a glimpse way back. You would probably make Able wet herself! Kehe" Snype rubbed his head and thought of how to get around the whole vision thing. "Well... what if I warned them about this guy? I could just tell them James mentioned the name to me! He's most likely an agent of Darkrai if he has the spunk to try and kill me right? Comon there's gotta be a way to cheat! We've done it before! Cel! I taught you just as much! Keheh!"

"I don't know..." Celebi muttered. "All I know is you can't cheat the system. Trying to get around it will cause it to turn on you. It always does... I should haven never told you to begin with..."

Snype frowned and looked down at her. He didn't want to believe he would be killed at Karn. He wanted to desperately find a way around it. "There must be something I can do... I know there is. I wont die in Karn. Maybe if I knew how it would happen..."

"I don't know how..." Celebi repeated. "I don't even know for sure if it will be you. The visions aren't always clear. I don't even know if I would tell you how even if I could... all I know is its likely enough to be you for me to be worried," She sighed. "I always thought leaving the forest would be one of the best things ever... but I never wanted to leave like this."

"This isn't how I wanted it to be... I wanted to take you to hold city after we stopped Darkrai to introduce you to my friends, grab ice cream, play around, youd love it. But of course we end up in the coldest hell around... I've never been through Karn. I've tried expanding but to no avail of course. I'm as blind as you are." Snype said as he kept the blanket wrapped around the two. "A little warmer Cel?"

"Yeah..." Was all the Celebi said. "Maybe... maybe the future isn't set in stone..."

"I never believe it is... I mean, we changed yours right? You told me you were going to be taken away and well, here you are talking with me." Snype said. "I won't die Cel... Just believe in me. When this is over I'll take you wherever you want! We can have our own little adventure!"

Celebi seemed to cheer up slightly, but it seemed obvious she was still nervous. "A-alright, Snype!"

"Kehe! There's the Celebi I remember! Now we just need your snarkyness and you'll be good to go! "Snype teased.

"Maybe in time I'll get it back, as I get used to all of this..." Celebi stated. "Gimme some time."

"I sure hope so! I'll teach you the ins and outs! You should chat with the others too! Cal and Kav are really nice! Raz is kind of a sourpuss but he's not all that bad. He calls me minion all the time. The guy calls himself an evil wizard. Play along and you'll get along just fine. Kehe." Snype said with a small laugh. "I've had a nack for keeping the group positive in the most dire situations. Hope that stays true in Karn."

"I really hope so too," Celebi added with a nod.
 

Snype and Cythera - S A D: Remembering the Lost

The camp bustled with activity as everyone worked to fulfill their assigned duties. However, Cythera had separated herself from the group for the moment, instead resting behind a distant mound of snow out of sight from the others. She stared mindlessly at the bleak, empty landscape ahead of her, drinking from a bottle of wine that was even taller than she was. She'd been somewhat distant ever since Guardia's death, even separating herself from Rattles every once in a while. Undesirable thoughts entered her mind which she tried to force back with another swig of her bottle.

Snype had been looking for Cythera all over camp... oddly enough, finding their doctor proved more difficult then he thought. Eventually, he was able to spot her taking a swig of wine far off from the Camp. "Cythera?" Snype asked as he moved up closer.

"Hey, King." The Floette replied in a dreary voice. "Nice weather we're having today, huh?" She didn't even turn to look at Snype as she spoke, continuing to gaze at the sea of whites and greys ahead.

Snype rubbed his head. "Doesn't seem like you would be enjoying it. I'd offer my cloak but uh... you seem covered. Pardon the pun." Snype said with a half-hearted grin. "Honestly, I just wanted to see how you were doing. After Lyn... well... I could only imagine..."

Cythera pulled the cloak Raz had given her a little more tightly against her body. At first she said nothing, only taking another drink, but after a bit she simply said, "Sorry…"

"Sorry?" Snype said as he tilted his head and stood beside Cythera. "Keheh, for what?"

She seemed hesitant to elaborate further, but after a sigh she did anyway. "Someone who falls to pieces over losing a patient isn't fit to be a healer…" Cythera frowned as she said it. "Mother told me that when I was just a little Flabébé. As much as I hate quoting her, she's right. But…"

She paused, trying to collect her thoughts as they whirled around inside her head. The alcohol certainly wasn't helping her clarity either. "Several of Guardia's organs had already failed, or were close to it when I got to her. I could have gone mega and it still wouldn't have been enough. But if I had gotten to her sooner it might have been a different story. Unfortunately I was too busy *****ing and moaning to notice someone dying right next to me. The sort of thing she would have noticed immediately. That's what I'm sorry for."

Snype sat down beside Cythera and crossed his legs. "Cythera... don't be sorry....please... You did your damned best to try bringing her back. If anything... I should be thanking you." Snype said to her. "If you didn't do what you did... well... I wouldn't have been able to say goodbye to Lyn..."

For the first time since their conversation began, Cythera turned to Snype, giving him a soft smile. "...Thanks. I've just got a lot on my mind. This whole mess brought out some things I'd rather keep locked away." She set her bottle down, burying the bottom into the snow. "Don't worry about me. I'm sure you're probably hurting the most here anyway. I can keep doing my job, and given enough time I'll be right back to my dazzling old self. Trust me."

"Hey I got time to chat with you. I just want to make sure our healer is doing alright... I kinda wanted to apologize for being such an ass when we first met. I didn't take you seriously at first and was just so bored in bed... honestly and... well now that I've seen you in action...." Snype placed a hand on her back. "After what you did for Lyn... I can say without a doubt. You really are the best healer in the world. I really can't thank you enough Cythera."

"Hmph," she scoffed jokingly. "Apology accepted. You were definitely an ass and I'm glad you can see that now. But I'm rather disappointed it took you this long to appreciate my skill." Her voice still lacked energy, but at least the words resembled something she'd normally say.

"Kehehe, there's the Cythera I know." Snype said with a wide grin. "Hey... if we do find a Mega Stone out there for you... um... when we have the time, I'll gladly teach you how to use it. I was a bit hesitant at first... but right now, we need as many folks with the power to Mega Evolve as possible right now... keheh. Consider it my way of thanking you for giving Lyn her last moments."

"Knowing now that I'm just as liable to kill myself with one of those things, I'll take all the help I can get with them," Cythera replied. "But you know…" She looked away from Snype again. "I'm still surprised you vouched for me in the first place, knowing I was just using you all to get my hands on a mega stone. Especially now that I know how cautious you are."

Snype shrugged. "Keheh... dunno maybe I just had a feeling I'd like ya. Honestly I'm happy I did. Kehehe... I think I've been confusing my caution for sheer paranoia. Especially how I pointed fingers at everybody back at the forest. Honestly I didn't think we'd run into Darkrai so soon."

"Darkrai…" Cythera muttered, tightening her grip on her flower. "Getting my mega stone would be nice and all, but at this point I just want to watch that bastard die. Guardia, my assistants, and so many others are dead because of him. And as if that wasn't enough he's threatening just about everything else I care about."

"I'm terrified of him... I still am. I uh... guess you don't know my past history with Darkrai huh?" Snype began. "I actually used to fight on Darkrai's side... back in the days of the Silver Tribe War if you were mixed in with all of that... those were uh... well it was a dark time for me. A day doesn't pass without thinking back on what I did... Guess you could say I was in serious need of a doctor eh? Keheh..." Snype said with a wide grin.

"I wasn't involved in the Silver Tribe War." Cythera stated. "I'd just been born when that happened. Mother never talked about it and Papa always talked about it like it was the good old days. If you ever faced a surprisingly stealthy Azumarill who was equal parts jolly and battlehungry, that was him." She smiled a bit more at the thought of her dad before looking back at Snype. "So what happened? Did Darkrai have something of yours hostage or were you just a lot dumber back then?"

"Well... maybe a little bit of both..." Snype said with a solem sigh. "To be honest I was just a bit of a coward. Back then, the Silver Tribe made a deal with the thieves to turn on the Gold Tribe and boy we were succesful in backstabbing them in natural thief fashion. Keh... course, the Silver Tribe wasn't going to just leave us hanging around. Around that time I... well I kinda lost it. I warned the previous king several times about the Silver Tribe coming back to kill us all and he wouldn't listen. Just as I was about to make a run for it I encountered the Silver Tribe. If I was going to survive, I had to help them through the forest and well... you can guess what happened next." Snype said.

"So that makes two times. Two times I've led Darkrai or his men into the forest..."

"Hmph," Cythera answered, though not jokingly like before. "Well, you're not the only one who's brought death to the ones close to you… Though it looks like you didn't have much of a choice in the matter." Cythera lifted her bottle from the snow and took a swig before holding it out towards Snype. "Want some?"

"Keh... wouldn't say that neccesarily... but sooner or later, they would just find the king anyways. You wouldn't imagine how pissed the thieves were when I took the role of King. Even after killing the last one. I don't really have an excuse for my actions besides just wanting to stay alive." Snype looked over at the bottle. "Kehehe, sure. Been awhile since I've had a drink." Snype said as he reached out for the bottle and took a small swig himself. "Ahh... haven't had something like this since Tollen."

Cythera chuckled. "Funny, this wine is Tollenian. I got it as a gift from a noble whose son I saved. I pull it out every now and then when I need a pick me up. A bottle like this tends to last me a while, what with being shorter than the bottle itself." She looked down at her tail, brushing away some snow that had accumulated on it. "...Did I ever tell you about my assistants? Or why I was in Beatruce?"

"No I don't think you did." Snype said, placing the bottle down beside them. "Here I won't use up the whole drink. Arceus forbid I get carried away. I'm pretty wild when I take too much. Kehe!"

She smiled at the thought, but it didn't last as she continued. "I've talked about how I wandered the world helping 'mon in need before. Well, every so often a patient or one of their family members would be so grateful they wanted to help me on my journey. Sometimes it was a local doctor who realized how much better I was and wanted to learn from me. Sometimes it would even be someone from far away, hearing of my reputation. I ended up with an entourage of assistants to help me in my research, make my food, collect herbs and other thing I needed and carry me around among other things. I didn't really feel close to any of them, but it was nice having 'mon to do things for me."

"Keheh, well I guess you enjoyed the attention? It's fine. In a sense you just had a lot of fans that aimed to be like you. Ya know, to help others in need. They wanted a bit of your gift I suppose." Snype said with a wide grin. "Sheesh... I had a little bit of that back in Beatruce while I was stuck in bed. Folks were writing letter to me, calling me a hero... wonder if word on that reached to Karn? Maybe it'll get us some bonus points with the Emperor. Kehe."

"You mean those fans of yours who made you underwear with your face on it?" Cythera said with a grin, recalling what she saw when she was tending to Snype one day. "I guess I should be grateful my assistants never got that taken with me. Y'know, you should probably wear that. It'll be good for this cold."

WHA-" Snype fell face down into the snow. "YOU SAW THOSE?!" Snype shouted in an embarrassed tone. Snypes while body went from purple to red. "G-gah right you were tending to me..."

Cythera giggled. "I'm surprised how well they fit you, too, considering they'd never met you. You're not quite the average Sableye. They must have done a lot of research."

"Ah! Research?! How would they be able to research my measurements like..." Snype paused a moment. "O-on second thought I don't know if I even want to know! You were bloody cruel for not helping me get those off!"

"They looked good on you!" Cythera teased. "Besides, it would have been kind of awkward."

"Wha?! Geez Cythera didn't think you were into that sorta thing! Keheh" Snype shot back in an attempt to resist the embarrassment. "Maybe I will go put em back on if you think that! Keheh!"

Cythera chose to ignore that last quip before continuing with her story. "Anyway, I said I didn't particularly care about my assistants, but there's one who was different. Dea, a Meganium." Cythera paused for a few seconds before taking a deep breath and continuing. "She was a healing prodigy, not unlike myself, who'd heard of me after I helped that noble's son I mentioned. She was one of my mother's students, actually, so you should have seen my face when I found out she left mother's precious school to find me." She smiled nostalgically as she recalled the event.

"It seems she didn't want to wait for her graduation to start helping people, but she still wanted someone to help her improve. I found out she had lost her parents to an illness when she was young, and that's what motivated her to become a healer. She told me she never wanted to let another person die ever again. I actually laughed at her when I first heard that. But she was serious, and she spent every free moment she had, be it early in the morning or deep into the night, honing her skills. She was good. At first it actually kind of pissed me off how good she was."

Snype crossed his legs instinctively after the comments. His blush seemed to fade once Cythera continued her story though. "Really? I'd have been kinda flattered to know someone with that sort of dedication. Keheh."

"Dedicated doesn't even begin to describe her." Cythera looked up to the sky as she went on. "She was a genius, able to keep up with me and help me further my research. She'd been working on a new technique involving berries that might have led to medicine and salves far stronger than what we have now. But she was also humble, always pushing the credit for her accomplishments off on me. She was kind and gentle, helping whoever needed it regardless of who they were, but she was also strong, able to fend off anyone who wanted to take advantage of her kindness with a brutal Outrage." Cythera laughed. "And the best part was that she would always heal them up right after, though nobody was stupid enough to go after her a second time."

"You were idolized Cythera... so uh... what happened to her?" Snype asked.

She continued staring upwards, her eyes glazed and her voice quiet. "The plague happened. I caught word of it, hearing about how nobody was able to do anything about it and insisted we go there. I was confident it would be no problem for me. But it wasn't to help the Beatrucians… I brought us there with my eyes on the fame and the fortune of saving a nation. I would be a legend, and the populace would lavish me with riches in their endless gratitude…"

"Well, that was how it was supposed to go." She lifted the bottle to her lips again. "Nothing I did worked, and nothing I discovered meant anything. And before long, the first of my assistants died. I didn't care. I kept working and working, deaf to the concerns of those around me. A couple more died. I didn't care. Most of the others grew angry or afraid and abandoned me. For good reason, too, since we'd stopped making any progress ages ago. But I wasn't going to let myself be defeated. Not after all the hard work I'd put in to get as strong as I was. I was the greatest, and there was nothing I couldn't do. At least, that's what I told myself."

"In the end only Dea and I were left. I'm sure she felt the same way as the others, knowing how much she hated seeing people suffer. I'm sure it didn't help that she was the one who had to take care of the ones who went feral. But she always put her duty first, regardless of her own personal feelings. She wasn't that different from Guardia in that regard. But knowing the way she looked up to me, I'm sure if I decided to leave she would have followed me right out."

Cythera sighed. "I refused to leave, so she refused to abandon me. And in the end, the plague finally got her too. I buried her with the others and tried to forget about her. But it was hard... I'd grown to love her like a daughter." She lifted the bottle for another drink, but she found herself simply staring into the bottle instead before putting it down.

"...I'm sorry Cythera. I wish my group arrived there sooner. A lot of mon died due to our delay. But honestly, if I never found this stone well... I'm not sure how we would have stopped Bastille. I didn't want to bring everybody against him and risk my own friends being infected... I decided to take the insane route and go after him. Just me and Raz. Once I told Raz about Celebi I Mega Evolved and... the rest is history." Snype as he looked down at the bottle. "I loved Guardia... but at the same time, I always did see her as a big sister."

Cythera looked at Snype with a frown. She then looked back at the ground, narrowing her eyes. "Guardia's emblem... How could you keep that? Having that reminder of what happened every time you look at it? Doesn't it hurt?"

"It does... But it reminds me of my promise. It reminds me... If I don't stop Darkrai, it'll happen to someone else. More importantly, it helps me remember all she stood for. I want to honor her... Even if it hurts, that's just something I have to live with. The fact Cal even let me, the king of thieves, wear something like this? Well..." Snype felt a small tear fall from his eye. "G-gah... Its still difficult for me to accept it..."

The Floette fell silent, losing herself in her thoughts for a bit as she reflected on Snype's words. There was a hollow silence between the two, broken only by the sounds of harsh winds that battered them with the cold. "...****…" Was all she could say, the single word containing all of her confusion and frustration as she wrestled with her own emotions.

Snype just frowned at Cythera. Her situation was pretty similar to his own. "Hey If you wanna vent out I'm here. I make a pretty good punching bag for that kinda thing." Snype said, forming into a smile.

She looked at him, mentally debating whether or not to talk about the issue more. "It's just…" Cythera began, looking for the words. "I don't know what to do. I tried to forget her but you can see how great that turned out. It's too late to look for something to remember her by, and I'm not sure I would have been able to handle that anyway. Especially not when it was my fault. You're holding on to Guardia's dream to honor her, but I don't think I'd feel right taking on Dea's dream when I don't believe in it. It just feels like there's no right option. No escape."

"Well in a way... I guess I should be honoring the previous king of thieves memory... but I'm in the same boat. Even that feels wrong considering what I did to him." Snype said. "Yet I still wished to make the thieves stronger and continue the legacy of the King of Thieves. Ralph may not have been the best fellow around but he still had his head in the right place usually. Well... thing is even I didn't know the right answer. I couldn't hold anything to remember him by because, well, I played a part in killing him. I couldn't really ask anyone else to hold a service because... well you know. If I so much as mentioned the previous king, I'd get some very ominous stares... hell after what I brought into the forest? Who knows what the thieves think of me now." Snype said with a sigh.

"Hell, I didn't even follow Ralph's dream either. I hated what he did as the King sometimes. I just took after his example, and I built off it as an individual. As a new King. I kept thieves from killing, expanded beyond the forest, and the thieves became more powerful then ever. Keheh... but that doesn't mean I forgot about Ralph. I just... built off what he left behind rather then following his path exactly." Snype said. "...It probably isn't the best way to go about it but everyone around me seemed to appreciate what I did after some time. I can't really say if its the right thing to do but it worked out."

Cythera let out yet another sigh. "I guess there's just no easy answer. If there was, I'm sure someone like me would have found it by now." She turned to Snype with a smile. "Doesn't look like I made any progress, but at least it was nice having someone to talk about it with."

"Hey I still don't have any easy answers for my problems. Best thing I can say is just keep doing what you feel is right." Snype said, returning a smile back. "Like I said, I'm convinced your the best damn healer I know. I'm sure you'll make a lot of mon out there happy, whichever path you decide to take." Snype rubbed his head and looked down at his feet a moment "And I'm always around if ya need to chat. I know I can be an annoying add sometimes but it helps me deal with the pressure of this whole mission. If you need a more down to earth King of Thieves don't be afraid to ask." Snype said, throwing off a small wink toward Cythera. "And if we do find a mega stone for you, I'll teach you how to use it. Sound good?"

"Sure," she replied, picking up her bottle for one last drink before putting a cork on it. "Hold on. Do you have any kids, Snype? I mentioned Dea being like a daughter, but I just realized you might not know what that's like."

"O-oh uh..." Snype rubbed his head a bit bashfully at that question. "Well no not really. I mean... I wouldn't be lying if I said I didn't think about it though. Keheh. Guess I wouldn't really know the feeling."

"Hmm." Cythera mused before floating into the air. "Well anyway, we should probably be getting back. I'm freezing my tail off, and I'm sure the others might worry if we're gone too long, considering the type of place this is."

"Yeah we really shouldn't be out on our own while we're near Karn. I don't really know what to expect out here. As much as I can count on ya, I don't wanna keep you too busy so early in our trip!" Snype said with a small laugh, giving Cythera a playful pat on the back. "Comon lets go warm up at camp."

Cythera nodded and stowed her bottle in her bag before leading the way.
 
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Raz, Cal, and Snype - A conversation with Vee


"A-achoo!" Vee sneezed as the Victini walked along with the rest of the group toward their destination. It had been a while since they last stopped, so no doubt Vee suspected some of the others were beginning to get tired. Whether that was true or not, Vee couldn't tell. None had complained directly to it thus far. Then again, they had done a pretty good job of avoiding talking to the legendary thus far altogether. "Arceus, who would ever want to live in a place like this?" Vee asked aloud.

"This bothers you?" Razathiel stepped in as he reached a hand into his Magic Room absentmindedly, having heard the Victini's complaints. "Are you sure you're actually all that powerful? Personally, I find this place quite refreshing."

"I never liked the cold," Vee muttered. "At least in Gaiyo's place, they were underground where it's warmer. Here? It's just snow. Brrr..." He shivered.

"Oh, for the love of the torn world... Weak, annoying and brain-dead. If you're cold, conjure fire or deal with it. I've no desire to hear your complaining," the Wizard chided, pulling out his Mega Stone and flipping it up to catch it with a tink on the tip of his staff.

"I wouldn't risk conjuring fire here," Vee responded calmly, despite his obvious irk with the Ralts. "Best we don't run into anyone until we get to the capital. If this place has the reputation I've heard about, then we'd want to avoid that. Where did you get that?" Vee asked as he noticed the Mega Stone in Raz's hands.

Snype was following the group not too far behind. He still had Celebi next to him in an attempt to keep her warm. But being a ghost, he couldn't exactly provide body heat. "Kehe, aren't you a fire type? Figure you'd be able to produce a bit of heat at least. Hey you could at least curl up with Cel here to keep her warm!" Snype said, almost in a teasing tone.

"I can produce some heat myself, I suppose," Vee added, seemingly ignoring the Sableye's comments about going with Celebi to the blanket. He looked at Raz again and repeated the question. "Where did you get that stone?"

"I acquired it in my travels," the wizard finally responded with a huff and a roll of his eyes. "That question is irrelevant; what's important is what you know about it. I can only assume you're aware it's a Mega Stone, unless your continued existence serves only to drag me screaming into a pit of unparalleled disappointment..." Raz turned to Snype. "I assume you and Callimer would like to hear whatever this dolt has to say if it's of any merit - I'd ask if you've seen him but, well... it's obvious he's right over there. Should we fetch him?"

"Kehe, don't worry I got this." Snype said as he reached out from the blanket and grabbed a pile of snow. "Kehe, watch This Cel. We usually make these to have things called snowball fights. Its a good way to make us forget the Cold." After forming it into a ball, Snype threw it toward Cal's back. "Hey Cal!"

The Dragonite's antennae twitched and he stopped walking for a moment, allowing some of the other to pass him up. After a brief delay he reached down to the ground, scooped up some snow and patted it, then did a one-eighty and chucked the snowball into Snype so hard it flipped the Sableye over like he'd been clothes-lined. "Do you mind?!" Cal shouted. "I'm worrying about serious things right now! And I'm already freezing my tail off! Vee isn't the only one who doesn't like the cold."

Snype moved Celebi out of the way before He was pelted by the snowball. "Kehehe! Hey you're the leader now! Dealing with me is part of that role! Someone's gotta make sure your patience is in check! Nice throw by the way." Snype commented.

"Does he have one too?" Vee asked the giant green Dragonite. "Mega Stones, meaning."

"Yes, I do." Sentinel explained, pulling the orb from his bag and holding it for Vee to inspect. As always, he felt the strange whispers of those who'd come before him, just on the edge of his hearing and impossible to comprehend. "And I believe that now I have the method of how to use it down."

"Have you used it yet?" Raz asked the Dragonite.

He nodded, staring at the stone intently and wishing he could speak properly with the spirits inside. "Yeah, but only for moments at a time so far. It's exhilarating... and the voices... Each time I do it I can last an instant longer than the last time."

"Astounding..." Vee muttered as he examined the Dragonite's stone. "How? 'Mon haven't been able to walk with the legendaries in years! I trust you know the dangers of using this power."

"Oh, yes, those two gave in to the mumbo jumbo and are slowly killing themselves - at least if they overdo it," Razathiel said with a wave of his hand. "On the other hand, my interest is in a more intelligently engineered solution."

"A what?" Vee asked the Ralts.

"Obtaining the power stored within the stone via ulterior means," the wizard reiterated with a roll of his eyes.

"It's a dangerous thing you're meddling with," Vee stated. "You should know that. These are very dangerous objects, not toys."

"Yeah I know full well. This sucker knocked me out for a good three weeks." Snype said as he pulled out his recently used stone. "Wiped out an agent plus every feral in Beatruce with this... Honestly, it felt good."

"They are dangerous no matter their application," Raz scoffed. "As are most of the things I deal with - and the point certainly stands that if there were ever a time to meddle with such things, now would be it-" The Ralts did a double-take, suddenly realising what the Sableye had said. "And I needn't remind you of my significant part in Bastille's takedown, Snype."

"Yeah you really showed him." Snype simply commented. "You told us about these stones in the first place Vee. Is there anything about them we don't know yet? Actually... I was wondering if you had a small idea on James' mega stone situation. When he was with us we found out he could Mega Evolve an infinite number of times. Somehow Darkrai granted him that ability. Know anything on that?"

Vee's eyes widened when Snype had talked about James' ability. "Infinitum..." The Victini muttered to itself. "... Yeah, I know of that power. You're saying someone actually can do it? A normal Pokemon?"

"Yeah, that Blaziken that was with Darkrai," Razathiel huffed. "And we could have killed him too, but apparently this group likes to hand out mercy like pillows at the annual Snorlax gathering."

"Hmm, perhaps you should have killed him when you had the chance," Vee responded as it placed a finger to its chin. The tips of its fingers were lit up with a hint of red energy, probably keeping the Victini warm. "It would have been mercy to do so. I almost pity the 'mon. Almost."

Snype looked over to Raz and then over to Vee. "He told us all about it. The pain he goes through daily with that sort of power. The only thing keeping him going is his desire to fight. A true Karn general to the end I suppose. Keh... we'll likely have to fight him anyways. Wonder if he still remembers the challenge I set up between Cal and him? If he's truely a warrior I'd expect him to honor it. Would be a better alternative than facing him and his entire army."

"We could always just hope he's behind one of a few doors in a labyrinth," Razathiel suggested. "Then with any luck he'll just fall asleep again and I can snap the fucker's neck like I should have in the first place."

Vee shook his head. "Wouldn't have done any good. At this point, he's immortal," Vee stated grimly. "He can't die. Not conventionally at least. Gabriel's unlocked a very old, very forbidden power with him. You have, no doubt some of you, heard of the voices calling from within the stone? Well imagine if all those voices represented a soul within the stone. Every time that Blaziken uses the stone, instead of it taking out his own life, it takes out the life of the soul inside. Because of this, he can keep using the stone. Also because of this, if he is ever killed conventionally, a soul of the stone will simply take its place. It is a very deadly power, with a very deadly drawback. Likely, your Blaziken friend has not long to live regardless. But while he does, he will be a menace. The only two ways that can defeat him now is time, or another Mega Stone," Vee explained as it pointed to the stone in Cal's hands. "Another stone's power in transformation can nullify his own. So he can only die when another also walks with the legendaries."

"It's what he's wanted the entire time." Cal muttered, still staring at the stone. "Everything he's done since we met him was so he could have this. He wanted one of us to be prepared to give him the fight he needs... and in a way I think it was always going to be me." He squeezed the stone tight enough that a lesser object may have cracked, but it sat in his hand, impassive as ever until he put it back in his bag. "This may not be something we can drag out either. James will likely be the first place we go after meeting with the Emperor."

"I still got my money on you Cal." Snype said with a wide grin. "Don't make bringing James along a total waste or I'll never let you live it down."

"If I do I won't live at all." Cal pointed out grimly.

"See? More reason no to lose!" Snype said with a smirk.

"If you're going to be using these, I might as well help you make the most of them," Vee commented. "Especially if you're going up against something with that kind of ability," Vee shot a glance toward Raz. "Including ulterior uses, if I can help with that," She glanced back at Snype and Cal. "When you use your stones, I imagine Cal you hear a lot of background voices, the souls of the stone, while Snype, you probably don't hear as much, right?"

Cal nodded. "I hear a lot of strange noises...and these voices, always on the edge of my hearing, whispering things to me."

"I uh... haven't really heard voices. As soon as I told Raz about Celebi I just managed to do it almost instantly." Snype explained.

"That would make sense," Vee replied with a nod. "See, the voices are those of the previous users' souls. When someone uses a Mega Stone, a small piece of them is infused inside of the stone permanently. Like a picture. Or a memory. My guess is plenty of Dragonites have used your stone, Callimer. While for you Snype, given a Sableye's longer life expectancy, that's not the case. It could also be the fact that Dragonites are more suited to the use of a stone than Sableyes, or that one stone was simply in public more. Either way, this gives each of your stones a unique, distinct quality. Snype, you may have already noticed since you used your stone, but you will be able to use it for a longer period of time, while still giving off a tremendous amount of power. Callimer, your stone use duration will be shorter than Snype's but the power you will have will be greater."

"So what? Does that make me one of the first, if not the first user of it? Cause this lasted a good long time. I went through a whole city with this thing!" Snype said.

"I'm curious exactly what it will be like when I fight with my stone." Cal commented. "I almost feel like the first time I fought Gabriel I tapped into a power similar to the mega stones...I actually managed to hold my own against him before he transformed. Hopefully if I keep practicing, seconds at a time, I can last longer when I need it..."

"I'm more curious as to what exactly triggers the release of energy in them," Razathiel murmured, one eye peering deep into the stone he held before him. "Perhaps if I can observe you in the moment of transformation during your short tests, Callimer, I can discern what its cause is and how exactly the power behaves. Or, the Victini can simply tell me if they know - as much as I doubt you'll have the depth of information I require, Vee, perhaps you'll pleasantly surprise me yet."

"Why all these backhanded comments at me?" Vee asked the Ralts. "If anything, I've been nothing short of helpful to you all in Anatellia. And of course I'll share anything I know now. But I must ask... what is your problem with me, young 'mon?"

"You honestly need an explanation?" Raz asked with a smirk. "I'm evil as hell, and you're an apathetic prick reacting to Darkrai a good few decades too late. I'm a person who needs no reason to hate anyone, and you've gone and given me reason anyway just to make sure - are you really so dense as to not be able to figure that out? Another reason for me to have a problem with you, by the way; being dense. Perhaps you should keep that in mind."

"You can't expect Vee to be around and hold out hand all the time. While Darkrai was around, there were bound to be other forces in the world that were just as threatening to the world's balance." Snype defended. "Even if you do have a point, we don't know their side of the story."

"Pretty sure I already told you guys in Anatellia while the whole Darkrai business was going on, I was helping deal with Giratina a whole continent away," Vee muttered.

"I was wondering why I kept holding Celebi to that a lot more than you," the Ralts pondered. "Ah, well, I guess it's just the density thing. But again, I need no reason to hate, it's my default - do you have any information on what triggers the activation of Mega Stones or not?"

"Legendaries do," Vee responded, a bit bitterly, with a nod of his head. "Because the Mega Stones make a regular 'mon walk with legendaries, either the species of 'mon who is assigned to it, or a legendary Pokemon, can trigger a stone."

"This is what I was saying about depth of information," Raz muttered. "I'm aware of the traditional methods of activating Mega Stones, what I'm interested is the mechanism of activation itself. We've seen already that the energy stored within can be released in different ways, as evidenced with the bombs in Anatellia. Being able to control the parameters of the mechanism, or even bypass it partially or completely to access the energy in another way would be huge for broadening the application of these things. Fairly sure that goes without saying."

Snype was concerned about how this sort of power could be applied. Especially in the wrong hands. But he wasn't going to get in Raz's face over it. He had to trust his teammates now more then ever. However... "So what are you going to do with it? We need that sort of power yes but I hope you can keep it out of the wrong hands after this war. We don't need some stranger holding weaponized Mega Stones." Snype addressed his concern.

"Vee said both the species of a stone, and legendaries can interact with it. I think interacting with a stone without being the 'mon it's meant for can only be accomplished by legendaries." Cal interjected. "I think it likely they were only able to use my stone as a bomb in Anatellia because of Gabriel's interference, either directly, or through his power residing within Roxanna."

Vee nodded at Cal. "Sentinel is correct. Gabriel likely activated the stone before, which is what turned them into bombs. A Legendary's interaction with a stone is different than the species necessary with the stone. It's not as natural, but we are capable of bending the rules on that. However, we can't actually use directly the powers in the stones, only activate them. Or force them outward," Vee turned to Raz. "What you are asking to do, to access that energy, may be possible. But just like with Mega Stone users, I doubt there won't be any consequence of use. No power this great comes without a price. That being said, I may be able to help you here."

"Pfft, there is plenty of fairly great power that gets handed out for free, but I nonetheless understand your point in this case," the wizard folded his arms. "However, it is important to note that the price of power varies quite drastically with the tact you put into obtaining it. The thing is with this Mega Stone situation is that you lot are still thinking about the stone's interactions on the surface. I want to look into the energies exchanged between stone and user, the way they react to each other, the things that define the stone's interactions at a base level - or at least, as close to a base level as we can get. Have you studied other artifacts, any of you? Twisted spoons, fire stones, grass gems - fascinating objects all with very interesting uses. If the way a Mega Stone operates shows similarities to these other cases, then the course of action we take is quite simple. The only real problem we face is in the sheer density of power the bloody things have, but ideally there should be some kind of way around that - in which case the gradual death brought on by use could well be stunted, if not nullified."

"Maybe," Vee responded as he pondered on the question. "It's possible. But still dangerous. It's hard to access that energy in any way other than all the way. Maybe though... maybe if I place a sort of barrier around the stone as we access the energy, we might be able to filter it in portions. Dangerous still, but maybe something we can try. Other than that, it's hard to know how to proceed."

"Hold on a moment," Razathiel said, grasping a piece of parchment and a pencil from his Magic Room so that he could take notes. "So the energy is taken into the host 'mon and, presumably, returned to the stone afterwards. I wonder what exactly triggers the return?"

"It's difficult to say," Vee explained. "The stone is the energy's natural resting place. All energy must eventually return. It is drawn to home."

"Hrm... so with all of that energy, lets say the stone was broken. Would it function like the bombs in Antellia? Or would something else happen? I think if you watched Cal Mega Evolve when he needs to you could figure something out for sure. When I used it, only Raz was around at the time." Snype said.

"If the stones are destroyed, all that energy must go somewhere," Vee stated. "With no filter... let's just say I wouldn't want to be around when it does happen. But then again stones in general do not break often. Few can do it."

"I wonder what would happen if a stone broke while someone was using it to Mega Evolve..." Razathiel wondered with a grin.

Cal squinted at Raz's out-loud pondering and cleared his throat. "Well, you won't likely get an opportunity to find out anytime soon. But if you think you can learn something from me mega evolving, then you and Vee are more than welcome to watch my battle with James when the time comes. I'd like to know if the power can be utilized more safely and frequently too... but somehow even if you find a way I doubt I'll be so lucky as to get a chance to try."

"You know I just realized... James isn't the only one we're dealing with here. How about Xander? Cal if you use your stone you'll likely be knocked out for a good three weeks like me. Unless we're unlucky enough to face them at the same time. Or if they're willing to give us that period of grace to recover." Snype said. "If I use my stone again then I'm out of uses unless I have a death wish. Meaning we're going to have to seriously figure out how to make Raz's idea work."

"Even if we do." Cal said exasperatedly. "We won't have time to do it before my fight with James...which is why we have to meet with the Emperor first, and why I'm hoping we can get some other very important things done in Karn before we have to face James. I could try to convince him to battle me without our stones, but I seriously doubt he preserved his ability to go mega all these years, and lead us into all this just so the fight he intends to be his last hurrah could be missing the most explosive piece. If we can't find a way... well I'd really rather we not go three weeks without a proper leader right after I take the mantle, the timing doesn't bode well for us."

"Keheh, stuff like that is why you have a second in command." Snype said with a snicker. "Still, gotta wonder what other agents could be in Karn. It might not just be Xander and James you know? If Darkrai's serious, he could be slipping in agents we don't even know yet."

Sentinel shook his head at Snype's worries, tail lightly thumping the ground in thought. "I don't think so, there's the possibility that Alai and Roxanna followed us maybe... but that's a big maybe, Darkrai needs his agents spread out now more than ever now that the power of his forces is starting to wane. He's kept getting stronger, but his armies have only gotten weaker as we dashed his influence around the continent, and rallied pokémon against him. If he sent too many of his agents here he'd likely lose much more progress in the places we've been than could be worth it, not to mention any agent other than James or Xander would have to fight their way in, stalling them further and weakening them for us."

Snype crossed his arms. The vision Celebi had quickly sunk into his mind when Cal spoke his own theory. This Edgar fellow may not even be an agent for all he knew. He kept silent on it though, despite the clear concern on his face. "Yeah guess you got a point. Still you never know. Darkrai's been invading Karn for awhile now. He could have won another General's loyalty. Or hell mayb-" Snype stopped himself. The thought of it was far too terrifying to speak out.

Vee frowned a bit. "I don't know what you've heard, but Darkrai's forces haven't waned as much as we would like," It stated grimly. "Technically, Darkrai has two Generals of the north-country, which means two-fifths of the entire army. And that's just from what I've heard. But having that duck kill his head General was still great for you. Likely against those two, you will need to use the stones. Especially against the infinitum-user."

"Just so you're, uh, aware," Razathiel cleared his throat. "I did sort of clarify what kind of information I was after and there wasn't much of a reply on that other than it being hard to access in any way other than entirely, so... any other info on that?"

Vee shrugged. "Not that I know of, beyond trying to separate energy if we destroy the stone, or try activating it but... it's hard."

"Suppose that's something I'll have to figure out myself, then," the Ralts shrugged in kind. "Though appropriate experiments will undoubtedly be... hard to come by, to put it lightly."

"Well, I am a legendary," Vee added. "I can still activate them myself, if you need me to. To assist you."

"You can bring them to a state where I can study them properly? Can you deactivate them?" Raz asked with a chuckle. "I feel that's probably the more important one of the two."

"Mmm, partially, I believe I can, yes," Vee answered.

"Ehhhhh, I'll ask you about it later," the wizard said with a wave of his hand, a little unsure.

"OK, then," Vee beamed. "Anyone else have any other questions for me for now?"

"... Actually I have one, but I'm afraid of the answer..." The Emerald Sentinel stared back at the ground and hesitated long enough that all eyes were on him, and Raz was surely about to pipe up and rib him for staying quiet. "If a legendary interacts with a regular mega stone, can it affect the stone in the long term? For instance...could a mega stone be tainted with chaos energy?"

"Tainted with chaos energy?" Vee repeated. "What do you mean?"

Cal stared at his stone once again, hoping desperately his question was a pointless one. "One of the reasons Raz was so curious about finding another method to harness a stone's power is because... when we found mine it had been made into a bomb, like the example we used. And I can only assume that it was done with Darkrai's power. And in addition to that, I've been defeated by Darkrai's power directly in the past... and I've always worried that there might be a small kernel of it in me, and now, worse, that it might interact with the stone if there was any lingering influence of his in it. I don't want to think what I might become if I used the stone and that happened."

"Well... I certainly hope that's not something Gabriel is capable of," Vee responded somewhat anxiously. "Has Cresselia's spirit had any sort of negative interaction with you? That might be an indication."

Cal shook his head and let out a sigh of relief. "No, Lia seemed to like me just fine. Hmm... Lia! Could you come over here?!" He called out across the camp suddenly. Lia, who had been playing beside Celebi for the past half an hour, instantly propped up and floated over to the giant green Dragonite. She looked at him curiously, and began floating around him in circles, all while giving him occasional gentle nudges across his body.

"Seems fine to me," Vee stated after observing this behavior. "I feel she would sense something if you had anything."

"THANK ARCEUS." Cal blurted out with no warning, falling backwards and slumping onto his back, tail laid out with a loud thump on the ground. Razathiel immediately burst into laughter, waddling up to the downed Dragonite.

"You alright there, Callimer?" The Ralts asked, before pausing to grumble under his breath, "I'd offer you a hand, but even like this you're still taller than me..."

"Shut up I was going through a crisis Ricardo." The big green lump said, tail sliding around in the snow. But his voice held nothing but friendliness and relief.

"R-Ricardo?" Raz spluttered out. "That's not even close to- what is this, a fucking curse?"

"It's what Lyn would have wanted." Cal said matter-of-factly. "But don't worry, this is a one-time deal... unless you ever decide to be a dick. But I don't think you will, I respect you Raz."

"Kehehehe, I still hope you'll make a library of names like she did. Always got a small kick out of that." Snype said with a wide grin.

"So it was always on purpose!" Razathiel muttered angrily. "Fucking diabolical. And not in the good way. Evil way, rather. Not in the- egh, fuck it..."

Snype simply burst into laughter at Raz's realization. "Kehehe! I bet she's laughing her butt off up there right now Ralph! Way to make the girl happy!" Snype cheered.

"Ugh, not Ralph," the wizard groaned. "Ralph is the worst one..."

"Kehe, I'll leave the names to Cal then. Its his job to uphold that part after all." Snype said with a chuckle.

"Why are you calling him Ralph? I thought his name was Raz," Vee asked confusedly.

"You and me both, Victini," Razathiel agreed with a disgruntled sigh. "You and me both."
 
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