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COMPLETE: Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Legends Unraveled (Epilogue Posted, Story Concluded) (TEEN)

Finally, another chapter!
Chapter 15

Gregorius guided Wenstrel and Azure into the hallway that the children had only recently passed through, the weary souls resting and crying pitifully. Many doors poked out in the hallway, each one with a silently sobbing set of children.

Many doors passed by, and several turns in the hallway came, when Azure noticed that there were far too many doors to even house one child each from the band she arrived with. "How many young ones do you have here?" She asked. Gregorius grinned, shrugging with the two Pokémon in his grip.

"Not sure these days. We've been at this for months now, and only Borik or Maxim would really know how many we have, or maybe even Arthus. We all know what happened to our dear prison master, and right now Maxim is not in high standing with Arthus..." Gregorius chuckled, enjoying the conversation.

"Most choose to not let me talk to anyone; say I can babble on forever if I chose, which is dangerous considering I'm trusted with some more private knowledge." His eyes gleamed, looking directly in at Azure's eyes. "Though don't think that makes me a fool. I am sure that Arthus wouldn't mind having one of his captains deal with you if you learn too much. So, if you want something, do not ask me...even if it be as small as a glass of water." He chuckled maliciously, thinking he had made a clever joke.

Azure's heart went to the others who had been forcibly taken from their homes and brought to this despicable place. Arthus seemed to care for their well-being, but the reason why is a mystery. Azure didn't trust him, but for some reason, she felt like she had met him before...

That thought eluded her as an ear-splitting roar came from a nearby cell, claws meeting iron and body meeting door. Gregorius laughed again, even harder. "That one was a difficult one to restrain, let alone get in while we brought him here to Ervine. I don't know if I've ever seen one of his like before; a new species of Pokémon he is." Wenstrel and Azure looked at him perplexedly.

"What do you mean by that? I remember from school that there's 721 species of Pokémon, so surely it must be one of them." Wenstrel replied. Gregorius laughed again, stopping in front of the door.

"You really want know for sure? I've seen plenty of Pokémon in my time on this world, even while I was of the living, but never have I seen one of his like. Here, let me get the viewing window..." Gregorius offered. Claws squealed across the metal afterward, with a challenging roar echoing from within.

"Yes, yes! Face Zacheus Incineroar of the Forgotten Isles! I dare you!" A half-crazed voice called out. Gregorius flinched and drew back, his smile shifting to a grimace.

"O-on second thought, let's move on." Gregorius corrected, pulling Wenstrel and Azure through the hallway.

Azure looked back at the beaten door, wondering what an 'Incineroar' was, until she was thrown into a cell with Wenstrel, landing on the hard-stone floor. "Where did you find Zacheus?" She asked, somewhat worried for the strange Pokémon. Gregorius shrugged, his lips closed.

"I wasn't on the party that found the beast. Only Maxim would know, but I can sure tell you that he won't slip a thing involving Project Empowerment’s plans." Gregorius slammed the door shut, with only his ears poking up through the barred window on the door.

"Arthus couldn't ask what he had originally wanted to thanks to that fool Borik, so I'll take care of the job for him while he's cleaning up Borik and his mess." Gregorius continued, cackling at the end. He floated up so his eyes could look through the window, and said, "What do you know about Matheus Lucario?" Azure remained silent, with Wenstrel looking away from the Gengar.

Gregorius tsked, shaking his head. "We know you know something about him. Our agent Uras Murkrow saw you talking with him in that cafe. Until you decide to spill, you'll be left in this cell with no food or drink. It's your funeral if you don't tell us." Gregorius warned. About to cackle once more, a roar came from Zacheus' cell, shaking the floor.

"Just you wait, Gengar! When I get out of here, you'll be one of the first to feel my fury!" He yelled. Gregorius faded into invisibility, floating along the floor as to not have his footsteps heard. "I'll check in with you tomorrow, this time exactly." His incorporeal voice finished.

Azure sighed, looking up to the ceiling in disappointment. "What did we do to deserve this?" She shuffled to the wall and slumped against it, with Wenstrel following. She brought up her knees and wrapped her paws around them, letting her head hang. Wenstrel simply sat, looking downward, his expression unchanging.

"Sometimes the worst trials make the best of us." He said.

~~~~

Arthus sniffed the concoction of food that was to be considered a meal for his ‘guests’ in Fort Ervine, his face contorting with disgust. “If this is what Borik wanted to give them, I should’ve killed him long ago.” He turned to the weighty Bibarel known as Gaska and scowled.

“Throw this waste out and delve into our stores so that our guests can have a proper meal. I expect expert craftsmanship.” He ordered. Gaska hurried to pick up the massive pot, straining to heave the giant piece of cookware.

Arthus turned to Maxim, who stood behind his leader, a large red scar visible on his chest. “Maxim, get the Lucario and the Quagsire. It’s time to see if we can find anything involving Matheus. Also, I wonder if they could be of service to us here…” Arthus explained. Maxim saluted, grimacing with slight pain, and went out of the kitchen to retrieve the two.

Arthus sat on a wooden chair, taking in the room. On his right was the main affair, where all the tools and appliance of Gaska’s trade lay. The stove simmered with heat, slowly cooking the stew. Various pots, pans and utensils hung in the air above the stove, counter, and sink, making a perfect array of tools for any chef. Past the kitchen, a vast wooden table extended from the edge of the counter to the far end of the room, with at least one-hundred chairs lining the edges.

Moments later a voice cried out, "Stop trying to bite me Lucario!" Maxim came from the hallway, holding Wenstrel and Azure in both hands, with Azure squirming in his grip. Wenstrel, not being particularly comfortable, voiced his complaints.

"I've had enough of grinning and bearing the humiliation, from being lifted into the air by a Krookodile, to being dragged across the floor by a Magmortar. Let me go!" He complained. Arthus nodded, and Maxim let go of the two 'guests'.

Azure looked at Arthus angrily. "What do you want now? I remember your servant Gregorius saying that he wouldn't come until tomorrow. I don't think a day has passed since our little 'talk'." She stood warily, looking cautiously at Maxim as his hand steadily receded into his arm.

Arthus chuckled, amused by her statement. "Gregor can be like that sometimes, making up random times so he can have some control over things. I intended to see you right now, especially after...examining the food that our late Borik had intended you to eat." He waved his hand dismissively. "Do not worry, I never intended anyone, even the most troublesome visitor, to eat the sludge. Gaska is throwing it out now."

Wenstrel sighed in relief. "Thank goodness. If there's one thing I care about, it's a proper diet in every Pokemon, even those I don't care for." He replied. Arthus smiled and clapped his hands together.

"That's just what I want to hear! I figure that you're a chef from the way you care so much for food. Do I figure correctly?" Arthus asked. Azure stepped closer to Wenstrel and clasped his hand.

"He was the best chef in our village, before your cronies burned it to the ground. Why are you taking children away into this ghastly place?" She exclaimed. Arthus put a claw to his heart, his face taking a saddened appearance.

"I am hurt, dear...what is your name?" Arthus said.

Azure growled and said, "Azure." Arthus sighed and began stroking his fur.

"Forgive me, I am pretty terrible with names until I grow closer to the Pokemon in question. Anyway, I never wanted to order such horrible attacks on-" His eye twitched, "-innocent villages, but sometimes to make sure that our guests are happier here, we must make sure there isn't another alternative to return to."

Azure, in shock, stepped forward, with Maxim stepping forth as well. "That is...just wrong! It's thanks to you that so many children are without their parents, or even homes to return to, so how can they be considered 'guests' if you won't let them leave?" Arthus looked to her and snarled, rising up from his seat.

"Unless I gave the order, they would just attempt to escape from the safety of Fort Ervine. Outside these walls is a Mystery Dungeon known as Dracon Canyon, where numerous Dragons reside. When night falls, they flee to the space surrounding the fort, and even my own confederates can't go out without risk of being consumed." He stepped away from Azure, to a window that let pearly white moonlight shine through. A dark shadow passed by with a mighty roar.

Arthus turned back and continued, "I am lucky to have Ghosts as wall guards during the night, or else we would never be ready for a potential attack… or escape. Be grateful that you and all these others have this place of solace." He sat down on the chair once more, closing his eyes.

"I won't talk anymore involving this matter; we've detracted too far from the original reason I asked you here. We have need of an assistant chef within our kitchen; Gaska is getting older, and I'm afraid to say that it is growing harder for him to cook for such a large castle as this." Arthus explained. He opened his eyes, looking at Wenstrel. "Would you be up for the offer?"

Wenstrel, smiling, replied, "Why of course! Anything to make sure that everyone enjoys a lovely meal...the children especially!" Arthus nodded, and Maxim turned and walked through the hallway.

"I'll have a Chimecho keep watch on you. You are still guests here in Fort Ervine, and I can't afford anyone trying to escape to the dangerous world outside." Arthus explained. Maxim returned with a Chimecho trailing behind him, jingling cheerily as she saw her master.

"I'll gladly serve the great Arthus for whatever you need!" She chimed. She floated above the kitchen, and attached herself to the ceiling. She gave a quick ding and set watch on the room.

"Maxim, take the Quagsire named..." Arthus said, waving his arm for someone to reply.

"Wenstrel." Wenstrel replied.

"Yes, Wenstrel, to Gaska's quarters. They'll need time to get used to each other." Maxim nodded, and reached out to grab him. Arthus added, "And please, let's have a level of trust and not treat him like a prisoner." Maxim took back his arm, grunting slightly, and led him to a doorway past the kitchen.

Arthus smiled, then turned to Azure. "As for you, I have need of someone special for taking care of our guests. My guards are...how should I say it...rambunctious and uptight involving them. I heard from Maxim and Gregorius that you took special care of the latest party to arrive." Azure, her expression softening, nodded.

"Yes. With such a loss, someone had to do something. I even lost..." She replied, trailing off at the end. Arthus' eyes flashed, and he diverted the subject.

"Yes, well, I want to know if you would be interested in acting as caretaker. You would visit each of them and do what you need to make them happy here. I don't want to appear as a demon to them. I would much rather be a guardian." He grinned, and snapped his fingers.

The wall behind him shimmered, and a black ball of fur ran to Arthus. It stopped at his feet, and Arthus leaned down and picked it up.

"Meet my son, Erik." He set it down and revealed a black and blue Zorua, cheerfully yipping and hopping on the table. "He has need of a nurse. Sadly, his mother is currently..." He looked around, searching for the words. "...on a trip. She can't take care of him, and with a sudden arrangement I didn't have enough time to arrange another. Would you be interested in being caretaker of all the children within Fort Ervine?" He looked down at Erik and continued, "Including my own?"

Azure, still unsure of how much she should trust Arthus, felt her heart go to his son as she saw him play with his father. She also knew that if she did have this chance, she could finally have a chance of organizing some sort of jailbreak...regardless of the wild Pokemon outside.

"I will." Azure replied. Arthus pointed Azure, and Erik dashed to her and began nuzzling into the soft fur below her neck. Taken aback, she at first reared back, but then gently hugged the young Zorua.

"I can see that my son is already taking a liking to you. If you have any issue, don't regret to come to my room to explain. I have no secrets within these walls." Maxim stomped back into the room, without Wenstrel in tow.

"Maxim, one final favor. Take Azure into Erik's room, and have her meet his guardian."

~~~~

One Day Later...

“Ah, it hurts!” Theus cried out as he stepped out of the house. He wanted to finally get on the road again, toward his old friend Saria to repair his leather cloak.

Laryon stood nearby, ready to help his uncle up if he fell. “Maybe you should take another day inside before we walk around some more?” He suggested. Arianne stood in front of Theus, and shaking her head, held out her hand for Theus to be supported.

“He’s quite enough for now. If he expects to be the explorer he was before the injury, he’ll need to walk around.” Arianne explained. Theus grunted with approval, taking slow steps to heal his back.

“Yes…yes indeed. I never got anything done sitting on a chair, and I don’t plan on spending the rest of my days sitting, watching the world go by as I grow old. Now, get me my staff!” He spat. Laryon sighed, shrugging his shoulders.

“It got lost in the Were-Forest as we were getting out. Unless it got out somehow with the Phantump, I think it’s gone.” Laryon replied. Theus groaned, forcing himself to stand despite the pain in his lower back.

“Curses! I made that out of quality wood too…” Theus muttered, forlorn for his handiwork. A rustle came from the trees, causing Theus to turn to see the source.

Another rustle came, and a clatter of wood echoed from the source. Yet another clatter, and a slim shaft of wood fell to the ground. Theus recognized it and went walking as fast as he could.

“My staff! How could it have gotten up in the branches? Ah, who cares, it’s safe!” Theus exclaimed. Laryon, curious as to how it could have gotten there, dashed ahead of Theus to see it.

Ignoring the protests of his uncle, Laryon picked up the staff and studied it. On the surface were many engravings of the same pattern that lay within the pendant around his neck. Some were large, others were small, and some were wrapped completely around the surface of the staff. All of them were carved with great precision, as if there was a guide to assist the paw that engraved them.

Before Laryon could say anything, Theus snatched up the staff and used it as a support for walking. “The least you could have done is give it to me so the process of walking could be less painful.”
 
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Chapter 16

Aram Electivire sat impatiently outside the gate into the Electivire Guild, awaiting news of the efforts Team Verac, in hopes that they had stopped the mysterious kidnappers of children. Before waiting out here, he ordered Remus to go directly to the Creation Continent to evolve into a more useful Tranquill.

The Gigawatt Plains was not itself today. It's usually turbulent skies were still and overcast, with a light breeze. The green, bolt-stricken ground made for a comfortable place to sit and collect lightning, a favorite snack for the massive Electivire. But none dare fall that day.

Aram sighed, muttering to himself, "I doubt he'll make it past the shoreline before he forgets what I ordered him to do." Electricity fizzled past his prongs as he contemplated the news from three days before:

Guildmaster Electivire,

We are in terrible need of your assistance. A band calling themselves Project Empowerment is organizing various kidnapping efforts on the Serenity Continent and abroad. Guildmaster Dragonite is missing from her guild, and without her leadership they can unfortunately not put together a team to combat this cause; too many do not respect my authority, and so refuse to trust my judgement on these matters. Various villages have been burned to the ground and deprived of life, and I am concerned that they will soon target the larger towns. Please send someone to help us!

Regretfully yours,

Barty Grovyle

Assistant Guildmaster of Dragonite Guild

Aram sighed, remembering various letters, all detailing either kidnapping or the absence of Guildmaster Dragonite, one of five Guildmasters within Equivos. She presided over the Serenity Continent, and so she would normally handle any issues on Serenity.

He heard flapping in the sky and looked up to see a Pidgeot high in the air, veering downward. Squinting his eyes, he saw that the Pidgeot wasn't simply coming down to land: its fall was far too fast, and its wings appeared to be closed.

"Get me air personnel, we've got a crash-landing bird up there!" Aram roared, electric bolts spiraling off his twin tails. Immediately after six Unfezant, one of which holding a net in its claws, burst from the top of the plateau, rushing to catch the Pidgeot before it crashed to the ground.

The Unfezant positioned themselves in a hexagon, and the one holding the net threw the different ends to its comrades. The net spread taut, they flapped to catch the falling bird. The Pidgeot dropped straight into the center, and a painful squawk came from its beak.

"Bring him down, that's right!" Aram exclaimed. He fizzled as he wondered where in the world this Pidgeot came from. It was certainly not from Team Verac; their only Bird Pokemon was a Swellow.

The Pidgeot came to the ground, and the net was spread across the ground. Aram came to the Pidgeot, and recognized the face of it.

"Winglus Pidgeot, member of Team Rerunen! What in Arceus' name are you doing here?" Aram questioned. Winglus looked upward dazedly, seeing the blurry face of Aram Electivire. His feathers were completely awry, and there were various scorch marks along his frame.

"We went...to investigate kidnappings...in Serenity...after Team Verac went missing. We answered the call from you instead...with Barty's permission. We never found them...but they found us. We were ambushed by someone...and Dred told me to fly to you, instead of...to the guild." Winglus gasped.

Aram looked around, seeing the Unfezant looking intently, ordered, "Go get medical assistance, now!" They obeyed, flying back above the plateau to get help.

He looked back down to WInglus and replied, "It seemed like you were doing fine until just before you started to fall. What happened up there, and why didn't you go to Delphox Guild instead?" Winglus groaned, and he held up a roll of paper in his claw.

"This will tell you why. Dred wrote down something he discovered on there...but he didn't reveal what it was. He told me to deliver that to you instead...of Barty...but I don't know why. I rushed...as fast as I could. Talonflames waited up there for me...above the clouds near here...they're long gone now...but I couldn't stay flying after that." Winglus added. His eyes closed, the roll of paper remaining in the air.

Aram looked down in shock, then slowly closed his eyes. He reached for the paper, the medical crew coming down from the plateau and towards the injured Pidgeot. Aram grabbed the paper and took it away, letting the Chanseys and Miltanks tend to him. He moved away, letting the light breeze and overcast clouds above add to his feelings.

He unrolled the paper, and as he read, he clenched his fingers. Electricity sparked from prongs to tail and back again, and without warning, he roared out in fury, running away from the medics to vent out his anger in safety.

"Curse you Project Empowerment, and let death hang over your sorry heads!"

~~~~

"Are you sure you don't wish to stay longer?" Arianne asked, Laryon packing necessities into the broad satchel; in the midst. Theus felt confident that some good questing will bring him back into shape, and so insisted that they leave tomorrow morning.

Theus paced back and forth, regaining strength in his back, and replied, "If I expect to be in tiptop shape, I must! Besides, we have to find Saria to repair my cloak and after that…" He trailed off, hanging his head and closing his eyes.

Night was falling outside, and the Phantump began to fill the glade. Rain had begun to fall, dripping from the branches and landing on the little wooden heads. Wind whistled through the trees, and the distinct moaning of the now-shifting Were-Forest echoed through the air.

Laryon slipped some berries and what few Seeds Arianne had into the satchel, looking up at his uncle. "We'll go to find Azure and Wenstrel." Laryon finished. Theus continued looking down, massaging his back.

Theus added, "Yes...yes. They surely aren't in Respit, but they might've been carried off with the rest of the kids. I'm doubtful of it, but..." The air began to hum, causing all three to look around for the source. It felt alike to the rumble of the Were-Forest, but more...unnatural.

"I sense...something...powerful...yet weakened. It seems to want to do something, but I cannot see it." Arianne explained. Theus looked up to the ceiling, his eyes closed as he mumbled something illegible.

Laryon held his paws to his head, feeling as if someone was trying to force its way into his mind. Theus did the same, feeling like Laryon, and so did Arianne. A flash of purple light lit the room, and all three shut their eyes in pain.

~~~~

Laryon looked around, seeing nothing but blackness around him. Slowly, a grassy patch of land appeared in front of him, and steadily spread below him. A pinprick of blue shot into the air above, and spread similarly to the grass. He appeared to be in the middle of a vast field, extending far into the distance with no change materializing.

Flowers slowly popped into existence, each different from the last. He turned slowly, admiring this fantastical view. A deep sound, like a pluck on a string, echoed behind him, and when Laryon turned around, he saw a light-purple being with a large tail.

It looked at him, seemingly with care, but if one looked into its eyes long enough, one could see a shadow of hate within them. "Greetings." It said. It lifted its arms into the air and continued, "Welcome to your mind. I am your host, Mewtwo." He breathed the crisp, clean air, and slowly exhaled.

"Most minds are rather cluttered and filthy with things such as regret, pain, et cetera, but yours is rather pure if I say so myself. Ah, but look over there..." He pointed over behind Laryon, where a rising pillar of black rock corrupted the beautiful land below, steadily growing higher into the air.

Laryon looked behind him, having a feeling of what it may be. Next to him images of Azure appeared, some more vivid than others, each revealing the compendium of feelings that Laryon had for her.

Mewtwo nodded solemnly and added, "No need to say what that pillar of concern represents in your mind. I normally do not care for such matters; the world has grown to hate me, so too have I grown to hate it. But the minds of the young always seem to hold the most joy, purity, and other behaviors that I have seen little of in the minds of adults." Laryon, now overcoming the awe of his mind, wondered what he was doing here.

"Why are you here...Mewtwo?" Laryon asked. Mewtwo's face glowed at the saying of the right question.

Mewtwo replied, "Well, aren't you a sharp one, asking the obvious question. Before I begin, I will have you know two things. First, the only reason I tell you these things in this manner is because you are young, and I do not wish to spoil this beautiful mind of yours; these come few and far between, especially in this age." He lifted his hand into the air, and under a shimmering of light, it revealed a badly burned set of digits, though not by fire, but through another sort of pain.

"The second thing is that I have learned many new things from a rare Orb of mine, and I can assure you that I suffered lots of psychic pain for it. So, listen well." Laryon, unsure of what else he could do in this strange place, motioned to sit down. He wanted to have a cushy straw chair, reminiscent of the one he had in Respit, and miraculously it appeared right as he sat down.

He looked under him and wondered how it got there, but assumed that just like the pillar, it came because he thought about it. Mewtwo smirked, and from behind him a massive throne of black obsidian appeared, silvery smooth and cold to the touch.

Sitting down, he said, "We have one who prefers the little luxuries of life, I see. I am one of more...flashy than comfortable." He seated himself, and with a flick of his wrist he conjured an Aspear berry and bit into it, and after swallowing pointed his finger at Laryon.

"I cannot reveal too much to you, as the Orb I used is rather reluctant to give knowledge unless I put up with more of a price. Did you know that pendant you wear holds the symbol of Arceus himself?" Mewtwo questioned, a distinct image of Arceus showing up in the mind.

Laryon thought of the pendant that he has worn for so many years, an image of it appearing in front of him. He studied it carefully. He noticed that within the swirling golden interlace lay a circle, with symmetrical prongs poking from it very alike to how Arceus' design on his sides looked.

"No, I don't think I've noticed it before. It definitely seems to be there though." Laryon replied. Mewtwo took another bite of the berry, waving away the picture of Arceus.

"That same design is within various Mystery Dungeons in Equivos. No one, myself included, knows how they got there, or why they were even placed there to begin with. But that pendant is called the Seal of Creation, one of few Dungeon Artifacts. It is like my Mystic Orb, which grants me new knowledge at the price of pain, in that there only exists one in this land, and unlike other Dungeon Items, these remain in their same position in the Dungeon, even when they shift." Mewtwo explained, bringing up an image of the dark Orb that gave him his knowledge.

Laryon looked down at the Seal hanging down his neck, the symbol of Arceus appearing more clearly now than before. "What does it do that’s so special?" He asked. Mewtwo shrugged, finishing the berry.

"It's a mystery. Unlike most things you find in dungeons, that isn't an Orb, Seed, Berry, or any such common item. It is unique, and so since there has been no other item like it, no one knows how to use it. But the one thing that I know is that once it has been discovered, it will go to someone it deems worthy." Mewtwo added. Laryon cocked his head, wondering what that meant.

"Worthy for what?" Laryon asked. Mewtwo shrugged once more.

"For whatever it can do I suppose." He looked upward and frowned. The sky was turning black once more, thin cracks of darkness edging across the faux sky. "We don't have much more time. There is not much more I have to say, but I will tell you that if it wasn't for that Seal, and the fact that once upon a time Matheus helped me, I would just ignore you like I ignore the rest of the world." Laryon perked up at the mention of Theus, not noticing the fading green of the grass below.

"Wait, what? Theus helped you? He said he's never met a Legend, and yet you, one of the most powerful and hateful Pokemon in the world, come to me all nice like this and say he's actually met you?" Laryon exclaimed. Mewtwo laughed slowly, his throne evaporating in a puff of smoke.

He made a portrait of four Lucarios and a little Riolu materialize into existence, holding the frame in his hands. Laryon recognized the two Lucarios to the side as Theus and Azure, although younger and even happier. The Riolu in the middle was himself, although he was just a little baby, probably just hatched from an egg. The two Lucarios in the middle he didn't recognize, but something in the back of his mind told him he had met them before.

"Are those two next to me...my parents?" Laryon asked, the chair he had dissipating and the blackness in the sky descending like a curtain.

Mewtwo sneered, saying, "I won't dare go into details, but there is one thing you should know." He forced the portrait to splinter into thousands of pieces, each hanging in the air, frozen in time. "Thanks to him, many bad things happened...including the splintering of one happy little family." The splinters faded out of existence, and Mewtwo began fading himself. The sky and ground below disappeared, leaving the original blackness of his mind. He put his transparent arm up in a salute, smiling hatefully. "So long, Laryon Riolu." He faded to nothing, and Laryon felt immense pain.
 
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Chapter 17
The same night...

Maxim and Azure entered a small light room, the floor covered in toys and the ceiling brightly colored. In the corner a small pad sat, most likely for the little Zorua, Erik. A small basket of Apples was next to the board, and a small array of books on a quaint bookshelf next to it.

Azure looked around the room, astounded by the lengths Arthus went to keep Erik happy. "This is...wonderful! I don't think I've ever seen something this nice for one little boy!" Erik ran happily in, grabbing a small ball with his paws and rocking it back and forth. Maxim sniffed impatiently, scratching his head in boredom.

"It's just a kid's playroom. Seems to be an attempt to spoil the tyke if you ask me." Maxim muttered. Azure ignored him and went down to the child, reaching for the ball in an attempt to play.

The space behind Erik shimmered, and dark red claws snatched Azure's paw before she could reach the ball Erik played with. Gradually the shimmering revealed dark grey fur, and eventually an entire Zoroark. His eyes looked directly into Azure's warning her to not touch Erik or the ball.

"Who are you and why are you here?" The Zoroark said. Maxim came between him and Azure and lifted his claw.

"This is the new nurse for the kid, so don't treat her like she's a kidnapper!" Maxim snapped. The Zoroark reluctantly released his grip, and stood up straight. Azure could now see that this Zoroark was younger than Arthus, with only a slight sagging of his features that made him look aged. He wore a cloak, like Arthus' but brown in color rather than black, and on his waist, was a cord, with a small brown bag tied into it.

"What's her name?" He said, crossing his arms cautiously. Azure stood up, allowing Erik to run around her legs playfully.

She replied, "My name is Azure. I was captured from Respit Village," The Zoroark perked up at the mention of the name "Had it not been for Arthus, I'd be sitting in a cell right now. Now, what is your name?" The Zoroark rolled his eyes, then held out a paw.\

"Ferrick Zoroark, official guardian of Erik Zorua, and brother of Lord Arthus." He replied, Azure taking his hand and shaking it. Maxim rolled his eyes and turned to the door.

"I don't want to stay here any longer than I have to, so tell her the rules of taking care of Erik so I can be on my way; Arthus wants to make sure she knows what to do." Maxim grumbled. Ferrick stooped down and whistled, calling Erik to him. He stood up again, holding the Zorua in his arms.

He then stated, "Erik, being the son of Lord Arthus himself, requires special care. He is awoken at sunrise, then given his breakfast, which Gaska will prepare. Afterward he needs plenty of exercise and some extremely light combat training and illusion preparedness, which I will take care of. He must be watched always, and even though I am his guardian, I am to remain out of sight of the other Project guards, so you must fill that role. He takes his nap after his lunch, and should remain asleep until half an hour before dinner, which he will play some more before he eats. Afterward, he will remain awake until the sun sets, when he will be put into his bed, read a story to, and then after a small snack, will not be disturbed for the rest of the night while he sleeps. That is all." After the lengthy explanation of the care for the young child, Maxim dashed out of the room and closing the door, saying to himself how much he detests children.

Azure closed her eyes and pondered for a little bit, then replied, "Don't you think that is a bit...long?" Ferrick cocked his head, puzzled.

"After four months of taking care of him, I'm sure I know what I'm talking about." He stated, setting Erik on the ground to lunge for a doll of a Snorlax.

Azure looked at Erik, smiling at the pure joy of the youth, saying, "Well, children aren't pets or machines; they like to have variety in what they do and what happens around them. How long have you been his guardian exactly?" Ferrick thought for only a little bit, crossing his arms.

"Since he was born, which was approximately two-in-a-half years ago. His mother, Carris, left around when Project Empowerment was founded, which was approximately four months, which is when I started acting as his caretaker and guardian." Ferrick replied, coming next to Erik and picking him up once more.

"It is past his bedtime, only thanks to Arthus wanting him to meet you. Let's hope this doesn't make him tired in the morning." He set Erik on his pad, setting his paw on top of him to prevent him from running away, and grabbed a nearby blanket with his other paw, setting it on top of the Zorua. Erik, at first fitful, yawned and curled up into his pad. Ferrick reached into his pouch and fished out a small Cheri berry, and gave it to him to eat. After finishing the berry, Erik closed his eyes, and fell asleep.

Ferrick smiled, but soon after returned to his grim state of mind. "It's best if we stay here for his protection, and for the fort's." He held up his hand, darkness emanating from it.

"I know that Arthus wouldn't just let you take care of Erik by yourself...and I also know that he wouldn't let you be unsupervised around here. If you leave my set, whether or not you’re taking care of Erik, I will not hesitate to attack you. Understood?” Azure, expecting as much, nodded submissively. Ferrick put his hand down, and walked next to the wall, leaning next to it in a lazy fashion.

"I will request a bed for you in the morning, but for now you'll have to make do with the floor, unless you want to sleep as I do." Ferrick mentioned, pulling his hood over his head. Azure looked down at the ground, disappointed about the lack of a bed. She noticed that the floor, although stone, would be more comfortable if she improvised. She picked up the Snorlax doll, dragging it to an empty corner of the room, then sat down and leaned against it.

"Reminds me of when I was young. I loved sleeping on top of an elderly Snorlax during the day in my village, because they have such soft bellies. Ah, if only Laryon could see me now, sleeping here." Azure mused. Receiving no response from Ferrick, who was presumably asleep, she pushed against the Snorlax to make it more comfortable, then closed her eyes.

"If only Laryon were here." She said, before drifting to the realm of dreams.

~~~~

Laryon's vision returned to the real world, and he discovered that he was lying on the floor with the satchel in his hands, and that Arianne and Theus were down with him. He lifted the bag, finding that it was heavier than it was before. He set it down next to him, and lifting the flap, found sets of Wands, Orbs and Seeds inside, along with a note sitting on top.

You'll need more than Berries if you expect to survive out there.

Mewtwo

Confused by the act of charity, Laryon picked up the satchel and set it on the table, grunting from the effort.

Theus sprung up from the ground, gasping for air. "What in Equivos happened!" Theus exclaimed, holding his staff in attack position. Laryon looked curiously to his uncle, towards his back.

"Isn't your back hurt?" Laryon asked, coming next to him and examining where the scratch would have been. There was none, the fur and skin below looking brand new...for an older Lucario.

Theus looked down and sighed. "So, he wasn't lying after all." He perked up and smiled, then dashed back with a spring in his step to where his cloak lay folded. He spread it out, revealing the lack of a tear.

"He's brilliant! Just brilliant!" Theus exclaimed, slipping the clothing on himself, testing it to make sure it fit right.

Laryon looked to the bag, then to Theus again, piecing together something in his mind. "Did Mewtwo come to you too?" He asked, bringing the note to his uncle. Theus, after slipping the hat on his head, walked to his nephew and studied the note.

"Such generosity is unusual from that Pokemon. Wait, what!" He stepped back in shock. "He came to you too?" He exclaimed. Laryon held up the Seal that hung around his neck

"I know what this is now thanks to him. He called it the Seal of Creation, and he also told me that this holds the same symbol as Arceus, right here in the center," He pointed to the signatures arcs of Arceus on the artifact. Theus took the Seal and traced the symbol, looking down at the wondrous masterpiece of its mysterious creator.

Laryon took the Seal back from him and looked into his eyes. "You didn't just find this on the floor of a random dungeon, did you?" Theus held up his paw as if to correct him, but lowered it, and sighed.

They stood for a few moments, Laryon staring at his uncle, pressuring with his gaze for what he felt was deserved. Theus massaged his head, trying to think of something to say.

Finally, he sighed once more, and said, "What else did he tell you?" Laryon, remembering the final vision that Mewtwo gave him, stood his ground.

"He also told me that many bad things happened because of you and that...you were responsible for my mom and dad." Laryon replied, dropping the Seal and letting it patter against his chest. Arianne lay still on the floor, her muttering ignored by the two.

Theus groaned inwardly, covering his eyes with his hat. "I don't speak of that. Not after what happened." Laryon stamped his foot, angry with his currently one relative.

"You have been like this ever since I met you first it was with the Adventurer and Betrayer-"

"Do not mention that tale."

"-then it happened again when we were in the forest; you kept avoiding my questions about Azure-"

"I have news about her actually-"

"-And now you won't tell me what happened to my mom and dad! Stop being so secretive and tell me the truth!"

“It is for your own protection!”

Theus took off his hat and covered his face, not wishing for Laryon to see him distressed. Laryon taken aback for Theus’ outburst, felt sorry for driving his uncle this far.

“I…I’m sorry for making you angry, Theus.” Laryon said, coming closer to his uncle. Theus looked down sadly, holding Laryon next to him.

He put his hat back on his head and replied, “Oh, it’s not your fault. Not at all. I just do not want you to be hurt by what happened in my life before I came into it. Although trust me on this:” He came down next to Laryon and held his paws firmly.

“If we ever come to a point like this again, where you feel like I’m too dodgy, or that I cannot be trusted, show me this.” He lifted his hat and pulled a little slip of paper out from the inside. He pressed it into Laryon’s paws, and closed them. Laryon tucked it into the Pendant, ensuring that it wouldn’t slip out.

“I ask of you: Please do not look at it, until after that moment comes. Laryon looked down at his paws, nodding in response. Theus looked aside, nodding himself, saying, “Very good…very good.”

“I’ve never realized how beautiful the night sky was here.”

Laryon and Theus looked behind them to see Arianne standing up, her back turned toward them, her head inclining towards the evening sky past the window.

She turned towards them and said, “And I so love the blue that your fur takes.” Her face remained unchanged, except for one thing: Two deep, ruby eyes shown where only eyelids used to remain shut.
 
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I am happy to see the awards concluded, and congratulations to all the winners! I may not have won any awards, but I will make sure to be more prepared for this summer's awards. For now, enjoy this new chapter!

Chapter 18

“How…how did this happen?” Theus asked, completely surprised by the turn of events. Arianne looked away, smiling still.

“Mewtwo came to me in a sort of vision. He said he would never ordinarily do this, but thanks to some recent events, he felt he had to.” She looked at her hands, ones that she hadn’t seen since she was a Kirlia. “I’ve always heard of him as a cruel and hateful Pokemon. I wonder why he would ever do something like this for anyone.” Theus cleared his throat, looking side to side.

“It may be, that, uh, that is to say, that someone may have, I don’t know, saved his life, so…” He began to walk away from Laryon slowly, edging toward the bag, looking as I he was wondering what was inside.

“Wait…you helped Mewtwo? A Legendary Pokemon? You said that you haven’t met any before!” Laryon exclaimed. Theus turned toward him and sighed.

“As I said just moments ago, it was for your own protection. I feel like it is too soon to explain my full past, but I will explain how I came to meet the cruel and hateful Mewtwo:

“I was going around the Equivos region, adventuring with a companion I met along the way. We both decided that we wished to go to the Isle of Regret, which happened to be the home of a great and terrible Legend, Mewtwo. We heard that he guarded great treasures, and that was what set us on that path.

“We journeyed across the sea for a great time, riding atop a Lapras who was willing to bring us there, but not bring us back to the mainland. We figured that we’d find a way to return when we got there, our minds being blinded by the treasure that supposedly lay there. We reached the Isle after a vicious storm broke above us, and after dropping us off, the Lapras soon headed back to the mainland for safe harbor.

“We searched for hours for where Mewtwo may be. Nothing lay on the isle but rolling rock and various caves. It was a wonder that Mewtwo even survived on that accursed island. We were sopping wet by the time we decided it was time to take safety in a cave; rain and lightning had descended with the storm.

“While eating from our supplies, we saw a shadowy figure outside the entrance to our cave. My friend left me to eat while he went to see who it was. He disappeared over the horizon, and a jagged bolt of lightning descended from the heavens. I went out to see if my friend was safe, and found some moments later that Mewtwo was struck by the bolt.

“We worked together to bring him inside, and we quickly tried to revive him; it would not be right to leave a Pokemon dying like that, even if he was a cruel and wicked Legend. We started a fire and kept him warm with our cloaks—not the one with me right now, as I got that months later—hoping for his recovery.

“After the storm stopped, and sunshine began to show on the Isle, Mewtwo woke up, looking worse than I did after the Trevenant. He stared at us with scorn, wondering why we were there. We could feel him probing our mind, seeing that we were after his treasures. He nearly killed us right then and there, but he saw something that touched his long-frozen heart: We healed him when he was close to death. Had we not been there, he would’ve died of hypothermia and the fact his body was quite literally in shock after the strike.

“He guided us to what little treasure he had after recovering, saying that the travelers he drives off constantly imagine that he’s guarding a treasure, when really he just wants to be alone on the Isle of Regret. We didn’t know that his greatest treasure was the Mystic Orb, seeing only the piles of coins scattered on the floor.

“He said that for rescuing him he would give his assistance when he felt he needed to intervene. Up until tonight I thought he had forgotten that promise, but now I realize he had simply been waiting for the right moment. He teleported us back to the town we left from, and we had been apart ever since.”

Theus looked up and reminisced past experiences. “Ah, that was how it was in the old days. I was strong, energetic, and cunning. Now I’m becoming more of a grandpa each passing year.”

Arianne looked happily at Theus. “I guess if it wasn’t for you helping him, he would’ve just ignored us. Now I can see again after so many years of blindness!” Theus laughed, massaging his back once more out of memory of the pain.

“Yes, and I would still be able to hardly walk. What more, my cloak would still need to be fixed by Saria, who by her old age would probably have passed on by now.” He stopped chuckling and held his face curiously. “But as far as I know he doesn’t have any healing abilities. How is it that he could actually heal us?”

~~~~

A Wand withered away as its powers were exhausted, Mewtwo’s face unwavering as he thought.

“This is the final time I use my treasures for your own gain, Matheus. My Mystic Orb has harmed me, and now my Wishing Wands have all been used. Good luck, for you will need it for the times ahead. You will need the Gardevoir’s sight, your own strength, and, of course…” He looked behind him, towards an ancient engraving of what appeared to be the many arcs of Arceus.

“The Seal of Creation. Good luck to you as well, Laryon Riolu.”

~~~~

“That’s beside the point however. What’s important is that now we can go straight to finding out where Azure is. However…” Theus thought aloud, pressing his chin into his fist.

“I think we’ll need help. It can’t be that the attack on Respit or any other villages that Project Empowerment attacked could be left without word. The Guilds across the continents must be aware of this.” Arianne looked out the window again thoughtfully, thinking of Theus’ words just as Laryon did.

“So, what should we do? Go to the nearest Guild and see if they’ll be willing to help us?” Laryon asked. Theus looked up and grinned.

Theus lifted Laryon into the air in excitement and exclaimed, “Of course! Why shouldn’t we? You saw how nasty Project Empowerment was back there. We’ll need backup before we can go find Azure, who I can assure you is alive.” Laryon beamed at that proclamation.

“Mewtwo told you, didn’t he? If she’s alive, Wenstrel must be too!” Laryon shouted. Theus laughed in reply, holding Laryon close.

“Of course, of course! With Mewtwo’s help, we are well on our way to getting them back!” He set Laryon down and pointed to bed. “Be ready to leave in the morning! Off to sleep with us!”

“I’ll be coming too.” Arianne stated, crossing her arms in front of her, beaming with cheer. Theus thought for a moment, puzzled by her choice.

“But Arianne, it’s been ages since you’ve ever seen this world. You don’t know how to protect yourself, and what more, you’ve never really been through a Mystery Dungeon, which we’ll inevitably have to go through to get to the nearest Guild, the Dragonite Guild.” Theus explained.

Arianne nodded agreeably, replying, “That’s exactly why I should go with you. I’m tired of being here, even if it’s safe. I want to see how Equivos has changed since my eyes were blinded, and to see the beautiful places I’ve dreamed of.” She picked up her PokeBoard set and began to slide the pieces into a cloth bag. “Besides, I’ve always wanted to be a travelling healer, bringing my powers to those who need them. It will do me some good learning how to go through a Mystery Dungeon.” Theus looked down to Laryon, who shrugged, and lifted his arms into the air.

“Pack up what you want then! The more the merrier after all!” Theus smiled took a deep breath.

“I feel like this is a new volume in our lives already.”

~~~~

Amid her sleep, Azure stirred uncomfortably. A presence was trying to force its way into her mind. She tried her best to block it with what mental walls she had, but it inevitably broke through, and she cried out.

Azure looked around and noticed that she was in blackness. Everything, above and below, left and right, was completely black. Gradually, a forest popped up around her, the ground covered in dirt and leaves, and various deciduous trees covering the landscape. An indigo sky hung overhead, and with the vast forest of trees came a slow rain, pattering the leaves and the ground with soft droplets of water.

“How beautiful…yet already I can sense an inner sadness.”

Azure turned to see Mewtwo sitting behind her, meditating with his arms and legs crossed. “Why are we here? Have I met you before?” Azure asked. Mewtwo shook his head, shaking off rain as well.

“We haven’t met, but I have met your brother, Matheus, long ago.” Mewtwo replied, standing up. A strong wind blew through the forest, coming and going swiftly.

Mewtwo looked up and grinned. “I see there are some harsh feelings toward him. He’s not so bad. If it wasn’t for him, I’d be dead years ago,” Azure looked at him, pointing an accusing finger at him.

“If it wasn’t for him, Quantus Village wouldn’t be ruins, and Derek and Saphira would still be alive! I love him as brother, but I hate what he has done to our lives!” Thunder cracked overhead, signaling the onslaught of even more rain. Her gaze shifted from Mewtwo to the ground, and she began to rub her shoulder awkwardly.

“That is, I used to love him. He’s probably gone now, what with being in that forest. And Laryon…” The rain continued to pour, Mewtwo shaking his head once more.

“I wouldn’t fret about them any longer.” Mewtwo replied. He conjured a lounge chair, fitted with an umbrella to protect from the rain. He lay down in it, conjuring a pair of black sunglasses as well.

“I met with them in their minds just recently you know. They’re going off to the Dragonite Guild to get help to find you and your friend, Wenstrel. I just thought you should know.” Azure’s face gradually lifted, as did the rain and clouds with it. The sky above brightened, revealing bright sunlight.

“They’re…they’re alive!” Azure asked, rushing to Mewtwo. Mewtwo nodded slowly, lifting his sunglasses.

“Yes, yes they are. But I warn you:” He glared at her sternly, taking the glasses off. “They will fail in their plight to rescue you, Wenstrel, and the rest of those captive children unless you do something about it.” Azure looked at him incredulously, bringing her paws up to her chest.

“Me? What am I supposed to do? I’m going to be watched everywhere, and I can only talk with the children, not arm them!” Azure asked. Mewtwo shrugged the chair dissipating. The forest around them began to dissipate as well, leaving only blackness in its wake. He came next to her and whispered into her ear:

“I’m sure there may be a more…attractive way of going about things.” He chuckled, and faded into mist with the rest of the mist.

~~~~

Aram Electivire sat at the foot of Winglus Pidgeot’s cot, awaiting his recovery. Chansey attended to him constantly, not leaving much time for him to simply rest. During the wait, Aram’s body fizzled with electric power.

“Just you wait Barty Grovyle…” He muttered through gritted teeth. “I’m going to make you sorry for what you did. Whether it be now or later, Guildmaster Dragonite and Team Rerunen will be avenged! You can count on that!”
 
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Hello! I'm here to provide some post-awards feedback. You have a good foundation for the story so far, and I hope you'll continue to pursue the fic and participate in the summer awards as well.

This PMD fic seems to have a basic plot so far: it's the story of Laryon, a young riolu, his aunt Azure, and his uncle Theus, who shows up after years of having been a freelance explorer in the Reflexon region. It becomes apparent very quickly that Theus is more than just an explorer, as he seemingly brings trouble with him everywhere he goes. Laryon's hometown, Respit, is destroyed shortly after Theus's introduction in the fic by a group of pokemon belonging to Project Empowerment, and Laryon's aunt Azure is captured in the process. Theus had come back to Respit to teach Laryon how to be an explorer, and when the two escape Respit, he does exactly that in the hopes of hunting down Project Empowerment to find Azure. There's also the mystery as to why Project Empowerment seems to only be capturing children and killing off every other pokemon they come across.

Like I said, it's a basic plot, and you can correct me if I misunderstood anything! At any rate, what I'd like to see are some more nuances to it. There's the legends that's presented at the beginning about the Adventurer and the Betrayer, which I'm sure will be explored in the future, because it's very obvious that Theus is related to the legend in some way. Other than that, there is not much - aside from the characters themselves, of course - to set the fic apart from most other PMD fics.

As far as setting goes, the legend of the Adventurer and the Betrayer seems to have shaped the region into what it is today, and what it seems to be, to me, is a very secretive and closed off region. Everyone in the Reflexon region is living blissfully aware of what's going on around them. I find that interesting, since PMD fics are usually much more transparent than that. I might recommend, when working on the Reflexon region, to focus not only on the region as a whole, but also the individual towns that the characters come across. Laryon's hometown, Respit, doesn't seem too unique to me. The town is just that - a town, with nothing to have it stand out against any others, and so, when it gets ravaged by Project Empowerment, I have little reason to care about its demise.

There's also the fact that mystery dungeons are presented exactly how they are in the games. Even the stairs in the games are used, which I think could be presented in a more creative way, along with the various items (some of which are said to literally always show up in bundles, which is very convenient for the characters). Those kinds of things are mechanics for the games. In a story, the logic doesn't hold up.

As for characters, Laryon the riolu and Azure the lucario have potential for sure. Laryon acts like a child, which he is. He asks a lot of questions about the world, and is usually ignored because of how young and immature he is. Azure is Laryon's caretaker, and there's not much to add to her character except that she takes care of Laryon and has a grudge towards Theus, her brother. There's more to Theus the lucario than meets the eye, so his background has some potential as well. As far as his personality goes, however, he tends to be reckless and a little airheaded, to the point where you have to wonder how he survived being a lone explorer for so many years. There's also Wenstrel the quagsire, who's interesting when he shows up. He's Respit's greatest cook, and everyone adores him for the meals he makes for the town. He also has a habit of wandering around town aimlessly, but the townspeople trust he's strong enough to take care of himself. Wenstrel doesn't seem to care about the world as a whole, only the present moment (which fits in with how the Reflexon region in general is presented). On the whole, there is, again, a good foundation that could be expanded on to make the fic stand out even more.

I'm a fan of your writing style. When I was reading, I thought several times that the writing style was one you'd frequently find when reading fairy tales or legends, which fits perfectly for the kind of story being told here, I think. There's some obvious typos scattered throughout, and some of the character's names are mixed up at times, but there's nothing too crazy that took me out of the story over and over again.

I hope my comments were helpful in some way, and I'll be looking forward to more of the story.
 
Thank you extremely for the review. Despite my stay here at the site, I don't think I've had one quite like this, and I really appreciated it. I will take each of the changes you suggested to heart, as there are definitely some things I want to change since my hiatus, and I hope the story will be better as a result. I wanted to go into more detail, but just a few things I noticed. First is the name Reflexon. I thought I got rid of all traces of that prototype name and replaced it with my new name, Equivos. I’ll have to look at the chapters again for another sweep I suppose, along with correcting any errors that may be there.

In commemoration for the first review such as this on any of my stories, I’ll post another chapter that I have ready!

Chapter 19

Arianne had packed up her PokeBoard set, as well as some pictures of herself with her mother, a book on healing, and lastly a journal to record her findings along their journey. She picked up a long-unused cloak that once belonged to her mother and slipped it over her shoulders, the size just right for her.

"I'm ready to go see what this world has to offer." Arianne stated, putting her bag over her shoulders. The morning light showed through the windows, the winds outside gently beating against the cottage. Each of the three Pokémon slept after finishing their preparations for the journey ahead the previous night, and now they all felt ready for adventure.

Theus was reaching into the giant sack that held their supplies, noticing that one item was missing. "My Looplet...one that I found in that dungeon many years ago...it’s gone!" He pulled out as slip of paper, and then opened it up.

To Matheus:

I took the Explorer's Looplet as payment for my services; my Wishing Wands are all gone thanks to what I felt were your needs! Be grateful that I included two new Looplets to replace that one.

Mewtwo

"Dratted thief! Ah well...I guess it was for the best." Theus sighed, digging around in the satchel for the remaining three Looplets.

Laryon stepped over a pile of bandages, which happened to be what remained of what was used to help them recover from the Trevenant attack. "Where do we go from here Theus? I've never gone to the Guild before." Laryon asked, peeking into the satchel and snatching one of the Looplets Theus was searching for, slipping it onto his arm.

Theus grabbed another and put it on his own arm, replying, "The Dragonite Guild is situated in a mountain, perfect for protecting against any attack. As far as I know, they lie in the center of one of the various forests that the Serenity Continent contains, but if I remember correctly, their Guild's entrance is past a mountainous Mystery Dungeon known as the Cliffs of Silence. It’s called that because of the eerily quiet nature of the dungeon, and the fact that nothing but Ghosts inhabit it, bringing silence to all who go into it." He brought out the final Looplet and handed it to Arianne, saying, "Put that on your arm and keep it with you; you never know when you'll need an Emera."

Arianne looked curiously at the Looplet, and then slipped it over her arm, it shrinking to make sure it remains there. "Emeras? I haven't gone into a Mystery Dungeon before, so can you please explain what they are?"

"They're a sort of jewel you put on the Looplet, and they give you some sort of boost depending on what it is." Laryon explained. Seeing Arianne's still confused face, he added, "Once we find one it can be explained a little better." Arianne nodded, putting her hand against the wall of the cottage.

"I'll miss this place; I spent many years of peace within these walls. I hope that some other Pokémon may find this place and make it their home." Arianne mused, sliding her fingers off the wall.

Theus opened the door and walked out, the bag full of supplies over his shoulder. Laryon followed behind, carrying the bandages to be buried under the ground. "Wouldn't be nice to just leave them there..." Laryon muttered, setting them on the ground and beginning to dig into it with his paws.

"It's incredibly unhygienic and I really see little point." Theus replied, looking at Laryon in disgust. He averted his gaze to the door and called out, "Come on, it's time to leave!" Arianne drifted out the door, looking around her in awe.

"I've never seen this place with my own eyes before. It's so...beautiful!" She exclaimed, twirling in excitement.

A deep, rumbling groan issued from the exit from the Were-Forest, causing Theus and Laryon to jump in surprise. Theus took a defensive stance, his staff held up protectively. "I'd recognize that noise anywhere..." He said under his breath. The trees shook, and a wave of Phantump poured out from the exit.

The Phantump avoided the three journeyers, rolling to their left and right as they came through. Laryon jumped back and forth, saying, "It's too early for them to come out for the Dungeon Shift!" Arianne and Theus agreed to themselves.

Theus batted away a soaring Phantump, exclaiming, "We should get out of here before the Trevenant arrives!" The ground below shuddered, and the Phantump swarm gradually diminished. Before any could act, the massive trunk of the guardian of the Were-Forest emerged from the exit.

The Phantump all moved behind their parent, following its moves toward Arianne, Theus and Laryon. It groaned once more, its steps slow in their movement. The arms were as large as Laryon remember, larger than everyone present. Its eye focused on Arianne, occasionally shifting to Laryon's chest.

It stopped in front of Theus, who stood in front of Laryon and Arianne, wanting to act as a guardian. Trembling, he said, "You've hurt me once before, but you won't do it again! This time we are ready!" Arianne rushed to him and pulled his staff down.

"If he wanted to attack you, he would've already!" Arianne exclaimed. Theus, seeing her reasoning, planted the staff in the ground, his black appendages rising with a blue glow.

"Can't be too careful..." He said, a blue ball of energy forming in his paws. He didn't fire it, but simply kept it ready in the case of emergency.

The Trevenant looked down at Arianne and groaned quietly, holding out his finger, motioning for her to come to it. She did so cautiously, and stopped within a few feet of the towering giant.

Its mouth struggled to move, and slowly and crookedly, it said, "Anne...friend...leave...?" Arianne, realizing why it had come, came closer.

"Yes Trevenant, it’s time for me to go. I thank you so much for the protection you have given me in this glade." Arianne replied. The Trevenant's eye lowered, and a sad moan echoed from it.

"Don't...leave...please..." It moaned, planting its arms into the ground. Arianne smiled sadly, placing her hand on one of its massive legs.

"I've had my time here in the glade, and now it is someone else's turn. When a new traveler comes through the Forest, let them come through, and allow them to come into the glade and enjoy this house."

The Trevenant looked up, then back down to her. "Trevenant...forget... Thoughts...slow..." Arianne reached into her bag, and brought out a picture, showing her as a Kirlia and the Trevenant as a Phantump, its face wrapped with bandages from the injury it had suffered.

She held it up and said, “Take this, and let it remind you of your promise.” The Trevenant held his hand over it and gingerly picked it up, looking at it. It sighed happily, and set it in the boughs of its head.

“You…help…me…” It traced a jagged scar across its face, the one remnant of its injury. “I…help…you…” It turned to Laryon, who stood farthest back, and waved to him.

“Arceus…rules…all…” It groaned. It then pointed at the Seal on his neck. “Arceus…chose…you… Chose…you…for…quest…” Laryon looked down at the Seal, then back at the Trevenant. Wondering what he meant, he raised his arm to get its attention.

“What quest? I don’t know what you mean!” He exclaimed. The Trevenant had diverted its attention to Theus, to whom his voice took a hostile tone.

“You…hurt…many…” It grumbled, raising its fist. Theus held up his sphere defensively, expecting the worst.

“Helped…many…too…” It said, lowering its arm and letting it fall to the ground.

Theus looked up, wondering what the Trevenant meant by this. He let the sphere he held in his hands dissipate, and he stepped a little closer to the Trevenant.

“Best…friend…” He said, pointing at Arianne. He looked sternly at Theus and finished, saying, “Let…get…hurt…” He pounded the ground, leaving his fist upright alike to a tree. “Make…you…flat…” Theus gulped and nodded vigorously, understanding what it meant.

The Trevenant stood up high, and turned back to the forest. “Good…bye…Anne… Good…bye…Chosen… Good…bye…Guardian…” It groaned for the final time, stepping back into the exit. Its children followed, rushing into the forest and back into the darkness.

Theus threw his arms into the air playfully. "Splendid. Now, let's get going. We've lost time, and we need to hurry to a town. With their help, we should be able to figure out how to get to the Dragonite Guild."

Arianne pointed towards the house, saying, "Behind the house is the path I used to get here. With luck, we should be able to get back to what remains of my hometown, Karyon Village. From there, there should be another path to a Mystery Dungeon called the Rapida Plains. From there on I don't know where to go, as I never ventured out of the village until we came here." Theus began trekking to the path, with Laryon following.

"To the Rapida Plains we go!" Theus exclaimed, marching onto the path. Arianne went behind Laryon, who while walking lay deep in thought.

He held the Seal of Creation in his paws, wondering what it meant to be chosen of Arceus. "I can't be important to some grand plan, can I?" He thought. He looked down at the slip of paper that lay intertwined within the design. “What is so important about this?” He looked up, dismissing the paper. “I guess I’ll find out when the time comes.”

They went on to the beaten path, and began their journey to the Dragonite Guild, leaving behind the cottage that for so many years was Arianne's home.

~~~~

"Come on, you can make it!" Aram roared, stamping his foot on the floor. Winglus had until just recently been recovering quietly, but he suddenly had been overtaken by a panic attack, which in turn lead to a harmful series of coughing.

They were in the underground Electivire Guild, deeply set into the plateau of the Gigawatt Plains. Inside the formation lay an interconnected series of tunnels, all vital to the efficiency of the main guild of the Harmony continent; it also proved handy for discharging any electricity set off by their Guildmaster.

An Audino trying to restrain the frantic Pidgeot explained, "He must have internal bleeding from the attack. We're doing as much as we can, but the most we can do is calm him down so that he can recover. Past that, it will have to be left to a Heal Bell and rest." She pinned him down onto his bed and exclaimed, "Get Olaf in here!" Winglus breathed heavily, looking around wildly as the Audino held him down on the bed.

"They're everywhere...they're everywhere! Get away, get away!" He shrieked, pitifully attempting to escape her grip. A Butterfree flew in, flying above Winglus.

"Sleep Powder him Olaf, quick!" The Audino exclaimed, moving as far out of the way as she could. Olaf the Butterfree sent a gentle rain of silvery-grey powder on top of the Pidgeot. Winglus blinked the powder from his eyes, struggling still. He began to falter, and his flapping weakened.

"No... Dred. I must...save...you...and... everyone else..." Winglus said, before shutting his eyes. Olaf halted, looking up at the Audino.

"He's out. Now what?" He asked. The Audino grabbed her feeler and put it next to his chest. She looked up, listening intently. She slowly closed her eyes, and grimaced.

"He's gone. Too much blood escaped his system, and combine that with the sudden calming down of his body, he was finished." She turned to her Guildmaster, letting go of her feeler. "I am... sorry I couldn't do more." She added.

Aram nodded sagely, and walked calmly out of the room, his tails twisting together, a sign of anxiety for the Pokemon. The Audino looked to her aides and to Olaf, knowing what would soon happen.

The hallway flashed with lightning, followed by a roar of fury from the irate Electivire. "Curse you Project Empowerment!!"
 
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I apologize if this review is a little harsh. I tend not to sugarcoat things when doing reviews because my attempts to do so often cloud what I'm trying to say. I do try to be fair, though.

First of all... This entire story feels like a fairy tale in novel form. It took me a bit to realize it, but I did once I thought more about the opening story and looked at the way you wrote descriptions. Your writing style and the way you describe the world very much hearkens to the style of fairy tales, and it provides a feel to the story I don't often read. This actually is a benefit, since the style itself answered some questions; for example, towns are not described beyond what is utmost important simply because the storyteller has to be able to recall this from memory when passing the tale on. Your use of repetition at times also reflects this, as long stories that rely primarily on oral tradition tend to rely on repetition to aid the memory.

As such, I find myself being forgiving of certain lack of description because it actually serves the story style well. This comes across as writing down a story that's been passed on by word of mouth a few generations, rather than writing a novel that is being imagined by the author.

I think you could rely a bit less on game mechanics in some places. Some of them, such as stairs and TMs, serve well for the main series because, in part, of the limitations of video games. For creating these kinds of dungeons, I would actually suggest getting some DnD dungeon maps and studying them. There are a number available online, and there are even some where you can't get them for free but can still study the layout from a preview image. These can help serve as an inspiration for writing your own Mystery Dungeons and caves. But on the other hand, I can see why you might want to stick to game mechanics for recognition purposes.

The other aspect I like is the story does not lose the wackiness of the Pokemon anime, but instead adds it onto the overall fairy tale feel.

I will admit I don't know much about the PMD series, so some aspects of this plot are lost on me. So, I will admit I am not commenting as fully on it as I should because I am uncertain what elements are game based and what ones are author-added.

That said, the plot has grabbed me, so I plan to look up the game plots in more detail so I am more informed for a future review.
 
Thank you for that review Ereshkigal, and sorry I didn't reply sooner. School happened, and really with that and the fact I needed to revise my chapters, I put this off. But now all the chapters have been proofread and edited, and now I am ready to post my next chapter.
By the way, due to story complications, the Phantump, Phaeris, has sadly been removed. I wanted to write for him, but I realized that I had a hard enough time writing for the characters I had, so I had to do this.

Chapter 20

"All Pokemon wake up! Breakfast is being served in five minutes, so come get it!" A voice blared into Azure's ears.

She opened her eyes slowly, smacking her lips from dryness. and stretched her arms and legs. She shrank back, cramped from sleeping on the hard stonework of the floor. She rubbed her backside, wishing that she could have put something underneath her to cushion her body.

"Not much I can do for it now..." She mumbled, pushing herself up from the floor. Ferrick materialized from the wall, stretching as well. He yawned and shuffled over to Erik's cot, the little Zorua snuffling, still asleep.

"Come Erik, it's time to eat breakfast." Ferrick said, kneeling and shaking his charge. He opened one eye, then closed it. He growled with indignance, turning around to face the wall.

Ferrick stamped his paw against the floor impatiently. "You come now or else I'll pull you out!" Erik growled once more, scratching his ear lazily.

Azure stood up, leaning back to stretch out her soreness. "You know kids like him always want to stay in bed. They want to sleep in, just like us." She rubbed her eyes, still feeling exhausted. "Except for me right now; that floor is so uncomfortable!" Ferrick looked over to her, then turned back to Erik, his displeasure evident.

Having her own idea, Azure cooed, "Are you ready to wake up, little Erik?" Erik turned around to face her, and stood up shakily. He stretched out his legs, yawning, and slowly stepped to her, nodding in reply.

"Do you want breakfast?" Azure added. Erik nodded sleepily, and tottered to the door. Azure walked alongside him, making sure he didn't hit the doorframe. Ferrick harrumphed, and turning invisible and following them.

In the kitchen, an aroma of delicious food wafted through the area, making everyone feel hungrier than before. "What is that heavenly smell?" As Smeargle guard asked.

"It smells better than Gaska's cooking!" A Druddigon exclaimed. Many other surprised comments echoed through the kitchen, taking up most everyone's conversation. All but one of the five tables were empty of Pokemon, the latter taken up by the Project Empowerment guards. Gregorius did not seem to be present however.

As Azure, Ferrick and Erik walked, a voice exclaimed, "Guards, bring our guests into the kitchen; they're more starving then you!" Many of them voiced their complaint, the voice responding, "Go, or else you'll be left outside when night falls!" Immediately 25 or so guards, just over half the table, left for the cells, leaving the others, who were assured that they would do their job.

Azure sniffed the air, recognizing it as Wenstrel's handiwork. "Good old Wenstrel; he can melt any heart with his miracles." She commented.

"Move. Erik's breakfast awaits." Something whispered, startling Azure. She looked around wildly, wondering where it came from.

"Who said that?" She exclaimed, receiving no attention from the guards. Something tapped her shoulder, and when she turned around, she noticed the disembodied head of Ferrick. Before she could cry out, an invisible hand closed over her mouth.

"Don't bring any attention to me!" He exclaimed quietly. He looked behind Azure, checking to make sure that the guards were focused on their own business. His paw still over her mouth, he explained, "Those fools over there think I'm dead, and I'd prefer it if you keep it that way; it's hard enough taking care of Erik undetected, and I would hate it if they decided to try searching for me. Do you understand?" Azure nodded, wondering why they thought he was dead.

Ferrick's head disappeared, and his paw moved away from Azure's mouth. "Go get Erik's meal, then we'll see about your food when the prison-I mean 'guests', arrive." He whispered. Azure went on, moving to the counter where a Bibarel and a Quagsire worked together to make a meal.

"You better than I thought you be for a Quagsire!" Gaska the Bibarel cried, gathering pawful of leaves. Wenstrel stirred a massive pot of a savory-sweet stew, the aroma intoxicating at this distance. He was cleaner than Azure remembered, most likely because he had to wash up to make sure nothing got into the food.

She looked down at her fur and sniffed. She was still rather filthy from the journey, her fur matted and covered with sand and dirt. She made a mental note to ask about a bath, then asked Gaska, "Meal for little Erik please?" The Bibarel turned to her, seeing only her filth.

"You in no state to be eating anythin', ya hear me? You spoil the stew made by me and this new sous chef if you so much touch a bowl." He looked up for a moment, putting his free paw to his face. He was rather portly, and he wore a ridiculously puffy chef's hat to show his rank. One of his teeth appeared to be chipped, and on a string around his waist were a variety of cooking instruments.

"You need a bath Lucario! Hee hee!" The cheery Chimecho chimed from above. Gaska came closer and looked over the counter, seeing a tired Zorua rubbing his eyes.

"You need mo’ sleep before any food go down your mouth. Ah well, orders are orders." He turned around, then quickly turned back, pointing an accusing finger behind Azure. "I know yo there Ferrick, no point in hidin’ from me!" He turned back around and opened a door into a cupboard, sifting through various items.

Azure could hear the muttering of Ferrick behind her, saying, "I've told him hundreds, no, thousands of times not to tell people I'm here!" Gaska came back, holding a bowl filled with an apple and several slices of bread, with a few berries on the side.

He almost gave it to Azure then noticed her dirty paws. He pulled it back, shooing her away with his hands. "No way, Lucario. I don’ care if you the new nurse, I ain givin you this meal." He pointed over to the exit of the kitchen and said, "Go wash in the pool until yo fur shines, then we can talk." He held the bowl over the counter, and rolling his eyes, let go of it.

An invisible hand grabbed it before it could fall to the ground, causing Gaska to roar with laughter. "Can't fool me Ferrick. If yo’ wan’ somethin, come visible, like everyone else!" He exclaimed before returning to his preparations.

Ferrick cursed under his breath before setting the bowl down on the ground for Erik to dig in. After Erik began, the disembodied voice whispered into Azure's ear: "Everyone thinks Gaska's crazy when it comes to me; they thought they saw me die. He only knows about me thanks to me having to go to him for Erik's food." Erik grabbed up the bread, enjoying his food.

Ferrick sniffed, adding, "You really do need a bath." Before Azure could reply, the prisoners of Fort Ervine began to flow into the room, wondering if they were going to eat the same meal as the guards today.

Gaska took one look at them and sneered. "Y'all need to wash up before yo get any my grub. To the pool with y'all!" He demanded. All the prisoners were quite ragged and filthy, their lack of a bath evident.

"Yes, yes, do as he says; we don't want anyone getting sick in Ervine. Project members, take them and yourselves to the pool to wash; I think I can smell all of you from up here in the Tower of Wisdom. No food for any of you until Gaska says you're clean!" The voice blared once more. The Project members, while not quite so filthy as the prisoners, were in sore need of a bath, their stench fairly evident.

A Golduck Project member came up to Gaska, looking to be expecting some food. Before he could say anything, Gaska clouted him over the head with his fist. "None a you get this stew until y'all so clean I can see my reflection on ya bodies! Now get to the pool, and be quick about it! I sure wouldn't mind eating this grub all by myself..."All the Project Pokemon rushed to the hallway, pushing the prisoners out of the kitchen and into the hallway to the right of it, to the bathing pool.

Ferrick materialized, sitting against the wall next to Erik. "Best follow them. I must stay here to keep an eye on Erik. I'm warning you though: if I hear you go one step out of line, you’re history!" He raised his claws into the air, a layer of dark energy coating them.

"Where could I go in this place? There's no one in the cells, and why would I go to Arthus or any of these guards?" Azure replied.

"Cause you Lucarios are sneaky ones, that's why!" The Chimecho exclaimed. Gaska pulled its tail hard, causing it to eek.

"No more about that, loudmouth." Gaska warned. He looked at Azure, moving his eyes up and down. "What you standin' round for? Don't you want breakfast? Get outta here!" He turned to Wenstrel and looked at him as well. "As for you, join the other 'guests'. You washed yourself good, but another wash does anyone good. Now out!" Wenstrel nodded, walking around the counter and toward the hallway. He halted at the entrance, motioning with his hand for Azure to come.

Azure complied, and ran over to where he was, leaving Ferrick and Erik behind. She took Wenstrels hand, and followed the rest of the children and guards to the bathing pool.

"What do you think of Chef Gaska?" Azure asked, contempt riddled in her voice. Wenstrel furrowed his brow and shook his head.

"He may be a good cook, but he's by no means a good Pokemon. He lets me sleep in his quarters, but on the floor and without any comfort." He replied, looking behind him. "What do you think of that Ferrick character? I didn't notice him last night." Azure looked back as well, continuing to walk through the hallway.

"I don't know. He's certainly protective of Erik, but I'm not sure why. He keeps hidden to make sure that no one tries to find him for some reason, and so I think because of the lack of talking with others he's not as sociable as he could be." Azure said, thinking carefully. She turned back and sighed. "At least he's letting me stay with him in Erik's room. He said he'd try to get a bed for me, which amounts to something I suppose." Wenstrel whistled lowly.

"Good for you I suppose. Maybe you could ask him to get one for me. I'm not sure how many there are in this place, but I know I'll need one if we're going to be staying here for a while." He looked down sadly, looking at his shuffling feet. "I wonder how Laryon is doing. I dearly hope that he survives in that wretched forest." Azure, remembering her vision from Mewtwo, stopped in the middle of the hallway.

Unsure of how to describe it, she said, "I learned in a dream from last night something important: Theus and Laryon are alive! And what more, they are going to Dragonite Guild to try and get help to save us!" Wenstrel brightened up immediately, and felt so happy that he might jump.

"That's a relief to hear! Did the dream tell you when they'd get here?" Wenstrel asked excitedly. Azure shook her head, remembering the warning from Mewtwo.

"No, but it did say that I had to do something here in the fort if I want them to succeed in rescuing us and the children here. I don't know what to do though..." Azure replied.

An agonized roar echoed from the prison hallway, and Wenstrel and Azure turned to each other with the same thought in their minds. They both said one thing:

"Zacheus".

~~~~

Gaska ladled out a portion of stew, passing it to Ferrick as he waited for the return of the prisoners from the bathing pool.

"You look deep in thought Ferrick. What on yo mind?" Gaska asked. Ferrick took the bowl and sipped from it, thinking to himself the deliciousness of the meal.

After gulping it down he replied, "I'm not sure to be honest. Arthus has always trusted me to take care of Erik all these years, and all of a sudden, he feels the need to recruit a nurse? Among the 'guests' at that?" He took another sip after he finished.

Gaska laughed as he poured a bowl for himself. "I know what you mean. A chef among the guests, and poof! Arthus decides it time for me to have a sous chef in the kitchen. Course it not so bad." He took a long gulp from his bowl. "He really knows his stuff. I was intending for him to sleep like the others, but after today, he deserves a mattress at the least." Ferrick nodded in reply. The Chimecho giggled, jingling in glee.

"I hear you'll be replaced soon. Rumors have been flying everywhere!" It cheered. Gaska yanked its tail angrily in reply.

He scooped out another bowl, holding out for the Chimecho to take, then took it back before it could. "I'm sorry, did I hear a fly? I dunno, but no fly gets any o' my soup. Ah well, more for me..." The Chimecho pouted, crossing its arms.

"Hey, no fair! I have little else to do while I'm up here waiting for something to do." Gaska held up the bowl once more, letting the Chimecho take it.

"Not my problem so long as you keep yo mouth free o lies!" He took another deep draught, wiping his chin off afterwards.

Ferrick looked down, seeing Erik chasing his own tail, his bowl empty. Ferrick set his own bowl down at the pup's feet, who sniffed it, then immediately began lapping it up, savoring the flavor. "The Lucario, Azure, knows more about children than me, even after the years I've taken care of them, ever since she left." Gaska perked up, choking on his soup.

After clearing his throat, Gaska warned, "No talkin' bout that, you know how Arthus feels." Ferrick shrugged, leaning back on the wall.

"Not much any of us can do for it anyhow. Regardless, something about Azure intrigues me. I'm not quite sure what, but I'll find out." Gaska nodded, setting his bowl on the counter.

"I already know what intrigues me about this Wenstrel character: He almost cooks better than me! Almost, but not quite." Ferrick growled in reply, thinking to himself that it was probably Wenstrel who cooked the entire stew.

He looked down at Erik and sighed. "I feel like I know Azure from somewhere..."
 
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Chapter 21

On the path to Karyon village there were few sights to see. Along the flat earthen road many trees extended skyward, clouding the path with darkness. Outside of the scurry of birds in the treetops, few sounds reached the travelling party. The day was new when they first set out, the dawn just broken, but now it extended into the later morning.

Theus led the three along the path, assuming the role of leader since he had previously traveled along it years past. Arianne looked around in wonder, never being able to see these things for most of her life. Laryon looked around tiredly, bored of the scenery.

Laryon looked around him, seeing nothing but trees surrounding him. He felt sick of trees, from the Were-Forest and the Glade, seeing nothing but a green mess overhead. "How much longer until we reach Karyon?" He moaned.

Arianne replied, "Can't you enjoy the journey there? We're lucky that the path is so peaceful and quiet, and that there are so many great things surrounding us!" Laryon looked at a passing swarm of Ledyba, flying high above, sighing.

"It doesn't help that I've been in forests for nearly two weeks. I want to see some other place, like maybe the mountains up to the Dragonite Guild?" Theus laughed out loud, amused by his question.

"Believe me, you wouldn't want to see the Peril Peaks. While generally a misnomer, every so often a powerful sort of Pokemon take residence there, and don't really like to leave. Dragonite Guild has to lock up their doors every night because of the danger." Theus explained. He looked around him wearily, continuing, "I will admit that I am growing tired of these same trees extending everywhere. Arianne, would you happen to remember how long it took you to reach Karyon?"

Arianne shrugged, replying, "I'm not sure really; it’s been many years, and I was unconscious from the pain I endured during that attack" The path ahead seemed to extend for miles, which disheartened Laryon.

"I hope that's not as far as it looks..." Laryon mumbled. Theus pressed onward, thrusting his staff into the ground at every other stride.

"We'll be there before you know it Laryon. Who knows? Maybe something intriguing will come up?"

Laryon laughed sarcastically, replying, "There's nothing in this place! What could possibly come to us?" As he said it, a skittering of legs came from behind them.

Everyone stopped, listening intently for that peculiar noise. "Everyone heard that...right?" Theus asked. Laryon and Arianne nodded, looking around slowly to find out what that was.

The skittering came again, this time closer. Theus raised his staff defensively, Laryon raised his paws combatively, and Arianne grabbed her bag protectively.

She whispered hoarsely, "I don't know how to fight! How am I supposed to protect myself?" Laryon sidled over, remaining cautious.

"Just keep out of the way. Theus and I should be able to take care of it." He replied. He didn't really think he could take care of whatever threat there was with what training he had, but he said it anyways to comfort.

The skittering came again, this time much closer. After moments of apprehension, a blue ball of vines popped from the background and onto the path, making curious high-pitched sounds.

Theus sighed and lowered his staff. "No need to be alarmed, it's just a Tangela." Theus came closer to, no sense of caution, in him. The Tangela stepped back a bit, but remained relatively still.

Arianne listened intently, with both her physical and mental ears. She felt something strange in the air; something...dangerous. "Theus, I don't think you should do that. There's something strange about this part of the path." Theus looked back, baffled by her comment.

He replied while still drawing closer, "What's there to fear, it's just a Tangela, nothing to-" A blue and red vine shot from the trees and wrapped around Theus' torso, lifting him into the air.

"Theus" Arianne and Laryon yelled, running to him. The vine began to shake Theus vigorously, causing him to drop his staff. Another smaller vine came from the woods, lifting the strap to Theus' satchel and dropping it on the ground. The Tangela grabbed it with some of its own vines, grunting from the effort, and it began to run off back to where it came from.

Theus was dropped to the ground, and the vines whipped back into the woods. He got up quickly, and, shaking his fist, exclaimed, "Thieves! Cowards! I'll show you!" He grabbed his staff from the ground, then began racing to where the Tangela ran off.

"Wait Theus, we can't keep up!" Laryon exclaimed, he and Arianne trying desperately to catch up with him. They saw spheres of blue light bolting in the distance, and heard the fearful pleas of the panicking Tangela. Eventually the light ceased and all that could be heard is the fuming roars of Theus' fury.

Laryon looked up to Arianne as they ran and asked, "What was that thing that grabbed Theus?" Arianne, panting from the effort, pointed ahead.

"We'll find out soon. I see a big blue blob of...whatever it is!" She exclaimed. Theus could be heard more clearly now, this time grunting in exertion.

"Give those back you vagabond!" He yelled. Arianne and Laryon, despite the trees, saw that the blue blob was projecting vines and attempting to strike Theus. "These our goods now. Go away!" A deep gurgling voice said. The slap of vine against body was heard, and Theus went flying from the point of battle towards Arianne and Laryon. He crashed against them and sent them to the ground, rolling behind them, his hat across the ground.

They picked themselves up, Theus grabbing his hat and setting it back on his head. "That Tangrowth over there stole our goods and is planning on selling them at a nearby town. Come on, let's get him!" Before he could rush back, Laryon grabbed his arm, stopping him in his tracks.

"We can't let you face that thing alone; you got shot out like a Geodude from a Rhyperior!" Laryon exclaimed. Arianne swept herself off, looking in her bag to make sure no portraits were damaged.

Seeing that none were, she replied, "Your attacks didn't seem to do much against it. What does well against them?" Theus thought, though quickly since he wanted to get back at the Grass Pokemon.

"They're weak to fire, but unfortunately none of us have that sort of attack. I'd suggest an item of some sort, but we don't have them on us, and we can't use dungeon items out of a Mystery Dungeon anyway. We should just rush it!" He went dash to the fight once more, but Laryon stopped him again.

"Didn't you say that they were going to a town to sell the stuff?" Laryon asked hurriedly.

Theus tore Laryon off his arm and exclaimed, "Yes, yes, I did say that, but why are you asking?"

"If they're going to a town, maybe we could try following them to it? Then after that we get our stuff and we ask around for the Dragonite Guild!" Laryon replied. The Tangrowth thumped across the ground, carrying their latest haul through the forest, towards the town.

Theus thought for a moment, then nodded in reply. "Smart plan. I don't really like it, but we'll have a hard time making it back to the main path at this rate, and if we just attack them and ask them directions, they could lead us into an unfriendly direction." Arianne and Laryon looked behind them, seeing the same endless trees extending past the horizon.

"Then let’s follow them. We better go quickly too, or else that Tangrowth will be too far away." Arianne noted. The bumbling footsteps grew gradually quieter as time passed.

Theus sighed, looking over to where their thieves went. "Alright, but stay quiet; we can't afford them finding us and fleeing to another place." They complied, and remained silent, keeping a brisk pace through the forest to catch up with the Vine Pokemon.

~~~~

Wenstrel and Azure passed the bathing hallway, earing the somber voices of the 'guests', and the irritated voices of the Project Pokemon. They knew that they needed to bathe to get their meal, but they had to see if Zacheus could be of any help.

They rushed across the main entrance and to the far-left hallway, where the prisoners stayed. They quickly traveled to where Zacheus' battered cell stood, the inmate silent. After several moments, they found the door.

Azure came close to it and whispered, "Zacheus, are you there?" A long growl came from it, and the shuffling of pads could be heard.

"Of course, I'm here, where else can I be? What do you want? Is this that group of Pokemon who hurl insults at me?" He ordered irritably.

Wenstrel came close as a well. "We're two prisoners, just like you! We've been given permission to work under some other Project members, but we want to find a way to get free of this place! Can you help at all?" The occupant remained still and quiet, contemplating the situation.

"Before any deals are made, I suggest that you look at me." He suggested. Thinking Azure and Wenstrel were confused (which they were), he added, "As that Gengar mentioned yesterday, I am a different breed of Pokemon than any you'd be familiar with. Where I'm from, there are even different varieties of Pokemon you have here, like Raticate and Ninetales. You had best see what I am, and... what state I'm in since my capture."

Azure shrugged, and reached for the sole entrance into Zacheus' cell, the metal door that blocked the visor. A voice yelled from the hallway, "Ten minutes until we're goin' back to the kitchens!" Azure jerked back her paw, knowing that they had to take a bath with the others.

"We'd love to stay, but we need to go!" Azure said. Zacheus sighed from the other side.

"At least see what I've become. They've tortured me outside these walls, and when you came yesterday they had only recently finished another round of it; I was nearly out of my mind. Please, for me." He pleaded. Azure looked to Wenstrel, shrugged, and then looked down the hallway.

"Wenstrel, go on without me, I'll make sure to be there soon." Azure asked. Wenstrel nodded, and went dashing off as fast as he could through the hall.

Azure breathed in deeply, and grabbed the handle of the sliding door. She slid the gate to the right, and she stood astonished at what she saw.

There in the cell was an upright feline creature, with a black chest and red arms, with stripes patterning his forearms and tail. He had a belt of fire, and the sides of his neck had puffs of fur in a decorative fashion. His teeth were sharp and pointed, and he had green and yellow eyes. On his body were scores of wounds, whether they be by scratch, burn, electricity, or some other attack; it was a wonder that he survived.

He sat in the corner, crossing his arms and perching his chin on his knees. He looked at Azure, smiling only barely. "I am glad to at least see a kind face." He looked at his claws, flashing them in the newfound light. "I am an Incineroar, a warrior of what you would call the Forgotten Isles, or as we call them, the Isles of Virtue." He looked back down, circling his claw on the floor. "You had better leave...what is your name?" Azure, coming over the shock of seeing a Pokemon in his condition, replied:

"Azure. Azure Lucario." Zacheus nodded, and looked up again.

"Thank you, Azure, for looking on a wretched Pokemon such as myself. Now go." Azure shut the door, slowly, and went dashing to meet again with Wenstrel, to prepare for their meal.

~~~~

"I want you to trust me! This is the chance we've been waiting for, and you're not taking it!"

"No, it’s not right! I am better than this, and so are you! What is that power worth? Surely not what we've discovered?"

"If you won't do me the service of being my partner, I am afraid to say that I'll have to do this by myself."

"No, I will not let you!"

"Just try to stop me! I know the location of this, and after I have it, I will gather what I need to awaken its power!"

"No, this is not what we dreamed of!"

"I shall have it. Goodbye, Adventurer!"

"No! No! You Betrayer to your cause!"

Mewtwo meditated in his cave on the Isle of Regret, remember that exchange of words so very well.

"The words that shook the very region, and the Myths and Legends themselves were changed. I dare not say again what happened, for my promise to the Adventurer and Betrayer are too great."
 
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Chapter 22

After days of flying across the vast sea, Remus Pidove has finally made it to the Creation Continent. The vast beaches of the landmass stretched to the left and right, going on for seemingly forever.

Remus wheezed a sigh of relief. "Thank goodness I made it! Now I just need to get to the cavern!" He flew onward, tired from the flight but still dutiful towards his guildmaster.

He squinted at the sights below, not finding anything remotely like a cavern. "Better head down to get a closer look." He swerved downward, getting a closer look at the various shells and seaweed that covered the sandy beach.

His claw landed on one such piece of seaweed, causing him to flap away in disgust. "Blech! Seaweed is just creepy!" Remus said to himself. After getting over the feeling, he looked around, searching for the Luminous Cavern.

Seeing none, he stepped toward the grass on the other side. "Hello? Anyone here who can help?" He called out. Expecting no reply, he continued.

"I might be able to help." A voice replied. Remus turned back warily, seeing no source.

"W-who said that?" He stammered. A Tranquill flew from above, landing in front of the startled Pidove.

Remus sighed in relief, wiping his head of mock perspiration. "Oh, it’s just you. Could you help me find the Luminous Cavern? My boss asked me to evolve into a Tranquill, like yourself, but I seem to have forgotten the way there. The Tranquill tsked, pointing a wing to his left.

"Just head that way for a few minutes and there'll be the cavern you're looking for. I remember that when I was a Pidove, I could hardly keep a few facts in my head." Remus nodded appreciatively.

"I agree. It’s hard being a messenger for someone as important a Guildmaster." The Tranquill gasped in surprise.

"You work for a Guildmaster? I'm so jealous! Which one?" Remus turned his head aside in embarrassment.

"Guildmaster Electivire. He has a bad temper, but he's very nice at heart." The Tranquill sighed dreamily, spreading his wings into the air.

"If only I could work for the Guildmaster!" He replied. Remus nodded, and began to fly to the cavern.

"It's been nice meeting you!" Remus replied. The Tranquill waved a wing in farewell, smiling cheerily.

The Pidove flew out of sight, and the Tranquill stopped waving. "Let Project Empowerment continue." Dark shapes flew above, heading towards the unaware Remus Pidove.

~~~~

Azure and Wenstrel reached the steamy hot spring that acted as the washing pool for all the Pokemon within Fort Ervine. Within there were many Pokemon of varying shapes and sizes rubbing themselves clean of dirt, grime and stench. Many Project members took to washing themselves with the prisoners, grumbling about the need for hygiene. The prisoners, however, were grateful for this respite.

A lazy-eyed Darmanitan leaned against the entrance to the central hallway, guarding the prisoners. "Who're you and why you here?" He grumbled as they came in. Wenstrel stepped forward to explain.

"We just got lost. We left after everyone else, and so didn't know where to-"

"Ah whatever, just wash up before we leave. I don't want to stay here longer than I need to; my stomach's grumbling for that masterpiece of Gaska's." He interrupted. Azure and Wenstrel went into the pool, the water feeling uncomfortably hot.

A Sentret child, noticing their initial discomfort, said, "They found this hot spring here in the castle when they first started to build this place. No one knows where the water comes from, or why it doesn't stop. Still, it’s better than having cold water." Azure pressed against her fur, squeezing the sand and dust from their long journey out from it.

"How long have you been here?" Azure asked. The Sentret looked up thoughtfully, scrubbing her tail clean.

"A few months maybe. It’s hard to tell since we don't have anything like a calendar." She held out her paw, saying, "My name's Lilly. What's yours?" Azure took her paw and shook it in introduction.

"My name's Azure. I got brought with the rest of the children for...I don't really know what reason. I'm actually going to be your new caretaker thanks to Arthus." Lilly beamed at the mention of that.

"Oh, that will be wonderful! It’s been so hard here since I came, and with you here and that awful Borik gone, things are looking better and better!" The Sentret cheered. A Project Hitmonlee overheard, giving Lilly an awful stare.

"Quiet you! It’s bad enough that we had to take a bath because of your filth." He grumbled. Lilly shrunk back in fear.

"Although it'll still be tough around here." Lilly whispered. The Darmanitan guard looked over to the pool with contempt

"Alright, time to get out!" He ordered. The Project guards eagerly escaped, while the 'guests' slowly stepped out, not wanting to leave the pleasing warmth of the water.

"Dry yourselves off before going to get food you idjits!" The Darmanitan roared, shoving a sopping wet Zangoose from the door. All the bathers went to take one of the many towels folded up on the shelves, with the Project members taking the best ones first.

When all the towels were gone, there were still quite a few children without them. They shook themselves free of what water they could, waiting for a towel to be out of use by another.

Azure, rubbing herself with a towel, came next to Wenstrel, who air-dried due to his slick skin. "What do you think of Zacheus? I saw him in the cell, and I can say that what they're doing to him is just beyond cruel." Wenstrel nodded in agreement, shaking his limbs free of excess water.

"Makes sense given the stereotypical personalities of the Project members. I wonder how he could be of help?" Azure sighed, rubbing her head with the towel.

"I'm not sure. I was thinking about getting him out of the cell and letting him help getting us free of this place, but in his condition, I'm not sure how long he can last." She replied. After she finished making herself relatively dry, she gave the towel to a drenched Buneary.

"We'll find a way. For now, let's just do as Arthus asks, and help out Gaska and that Ferrick character." Wenstrel added. The Pokemon finally began to exit the pool and into the kitchen. Azure and Wenstrel followed, and soon reentered the kitchen, where Gaska and Ferrick lay in wait.

~~~~

Theus, Arianne and Laryon kept their ears close to the reverberating thumps of the Tangrowth, who had the habit of chattering to his companion Tangela.

"When do you think we'll be to the town?" Laryon hissed, not wanting to grab their foe's attention. Theus shrugged as they slunk along.

"Who knows? The town might be a few minutes away, or it could be days! I'm just not sure." Theus replied. Arianne shushed them as the Vine Pokemon began to speak louder.

"We haven't had travelers along that road for ages, what with that old Trevenant blocking the other way into it." The Tangrowth bubbled. The Tangela replied with a series of eeps.

"No, I don't think it just dropped dead. That thing's a Ghost, and they don't go away peacefully. No, it had to let them through, although why is beyond me." The Tangrowth replied. Again, more eeps.

The Tangrowth smacked the Tangela behind him. "No, those guys wouldn't be following us, we made sure of that!" The Tangela eeped again, with the hearts of their three trackers beginning to beat faster.

The Tangrowth rubbed his eyes in irritation, then pointed with his free hand behind him. "If you want to see for yourself, be my guest." The Tangela squeaked, and the leaves began to rustle in front of them.

The rustling drew closer, and Theus, with his staff raised high, whispered, "Change of plans: Attack!" The Tangela came into view, but before it could see anything, Theus clouted it over the head. Its eyes rolled back, and it tipped to its side unconscious.

"Now what?" Laryon asked. Theus pondered for a bit, then picked up the comatose Tangela.

"If this guy doesn't come back, the Tangrowth is sure to come here to us. We'd best wait here for him, then we can catch him by surprise!"

"It's worth a try. Plus, we don't really have any other ideas unless we just want to go charging to the thief." Arianne noted. They waited for the Tangrowth to come, with Theus every so often clouting the Tangela into dreamland again.

~~~~

Aram stamped his feet nervously, awaiting the return of his valued messenger, Remus. "I dearly hope that he didn't forget that he need to go to the Luminous Cavern..." He muttered, the occasional sparks of electricity dancing off his tail and head.

A Rhyperior opened the door to the Guildmaster's room and walked in, slamming it behind him. "News from the Creation Continent. Guildmaster Delphox has gone missing, similar to the situation at Dragonite Guild. No one knows where she could be." Aram grunted, standing up.

"Two Guildmasters gone. Now there's just me, Guildmaster Dusknoir, and Guildmaster Metagross." He held his hands behind his back, his tails twisting in anxiousness.

"What are we to do? First the kidnappings, and now Guilds are falling apart. Without us Guildmasters, how are the Guilds to remain organized?" The Rhyperior nodded sagely.

"The Guilds would dissolve, yes. None except the outlaws would think of dismantling the Guilds, but even they know better than to let the force who protects all from the ancient Pokemon who lurk in the Mystery Dungeons." Aram raised a finger up in the air for interjection.

"Another thing: The Mystery Dungeons seem to be receding." He looked out of the window, the view extending across the wide plains. "In the night, I would usually hear the shifting of our local Mystery Dungeon, the Thunderous Caverns. These past few nights however, I've yet to hear the moaning of their shift." He shook his head, walking away from the window. "I've heard of several ancient Mystery Dungeons stop, but never one like that. Usually they gradually change less and less, until eventually their form ceases to shift."

"But won't that be a good thing? We'll be able to go through the dungeons at night, and we don't have to worry about the wild Pokemon coming out to keep us here." The Rhyperior asked. Aram nodded, his face solemn.

"Yes, it would be. But, that means that whoever travels through the dungeon after that must deal with larger amounts of wild Pokemon, and what more, the ever-changing format that protects their exits will be lost. Pokemon could create maps that lead through the safest way out of the dungeon, and if outlaws had them, they could more easily reach villages and other places without hindrance." He came to a chest against the wall and opened it, pulling out an Orb.

"Another side effect would be the loss of these Dungeon Items. Outside of berries, they cannot be found anywhere else but dungeons. The economies of certain villages could collapse, and what more, it would be far more difficult to traverse any dungeon." He set the Orb on top of the chest, and turned to the Rhyperior. "I believe I have made myself clear as to why we must have the Mystery Dungeons in our lives. While perilous and unpredictable, they make sure we can survive. So, I want you to investigate the Thunderous Caverns to understand why it has stopped shifting." The Rhyperior saluted, his right arm across his brow, and he exited the room.

Aram looked down at the Orb and sighed. He picked it up once more, reading the inscription on it: Rollcall.

"If only this could work out here. I'd call you back right now Remus. I just feel like the world is turning for the worse." He said to it. He closed his fist around it, and stood still, his tails not even twitching.
 
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Chapter 23

"Hey, where'd you go?" The Tangrowth called. The Tangela remained unconscious as Theus threw it into a tree, being supported by branches high in the air. Arianne lay hidden, not wanting to confront the enormous Tangrowth, and Laryon stood by Theus' side.

"He'll be coming soon, I just know it." Theus told Laryon. He held one of his paws in the air, ready to use a Shadow Claw against the thief.

The thumping footsteps of the Tangrowth came closer to their location, the Tangrowth burbling, "This isn't funny! Come back here! We need to get to Coreth before dark!" The lumbering giant came into view, his blue vines rising into the air.

Laryon dashed towards the thing, attacking it with a Shadow Claw as he passed. It hit his leg, causing the Tangrowth to kneel. "Hey, who's there?" The Tangrowth demanded. Theus came next, clapping a Force Palm across his face.

The Tangrowth leaned back, grabbing his face and leg. "Stop it, now!" He let go and whipped his arms outward, flailing them to drive off his attackers. He smacked Laryon's arm, and finding one of his attackers, quickly reached to grab him.

Theus brought his staff down on the Pokémon’s arm, releasing Laryon from his would-be captor. Laryon grabbed his arm, wincing at the lasting pain, and ran off towards Arianne.

Theus ran to the Tangrowth, exclaiming, "Give us back our belongings, now!" The Tangrowth stood up and began to swing his arms in Theus' direction.

"No way! Times are hard without a Mystery Dungeon to give us supplies!" The Tangrowth exclaimed. Most villages had a Mystery Dungeon to provide Dungeon Items to the economy, so after an adventurer collects them and returns to the entrance via entering the dungeon through the exit, he sells his items and buys others. It's more complicated, but this is the gist of it.

Dodging a vine, Theus replied, "Practically every village is near a Dungeon!" The Tangrowth roared, and brought both arms down to hit the swift Lucario.

"The Rapida Plains stopped shifting a week ago! Pokémon are starving!" The Tangrowth exclaimed. His right arm finally caught Theus' leg, and after letting him smack on the ground, he lifted the Lucario into the air, upside-down.

While healing Laryon of his welt, Arianne overheard the mention of the dungeon he lived next to. She finished quickly and ran to him. "Wait did you say the Rapida Plains?" She exclaimed. The Tangrowth looked down at her, holding the Lucario above his eyes.

"Yes, I did. They used to be plentiful, before they suddenly stopped shifting. Now there's hardly anything to eat, what with our explorers finding nothing new in there each day." He explained. He looked up at the dangling Lucario, and slowly wrapped his arm around his neck.

"I'm gonna pop your head off your neck for the trouble you gave me." He threatened. Theus' eyes flashed, and he desperately reached out towards Arianne and Laryon as the appendage wrapped around his airway.

"Wait, we can work something out!" Laryon exclaimed, running closer to the Tangrowth. The Tangrowth looked down curiously.

"And what would that be? Me and my buddy need those supplies that you had." He replied. Theus, suffocating as he was, tried his best to speak.

"We...can...look...in... the...dungeon!" He gasped.

Arianne, knowing what he meant, added, "If you let him go, we can look in the Rapida Plains for what might be causing it to not shift!" The Tangrowth slackened his grip on Theus, but only slightly.

"Many Pokémon have gone in there to find out what went wrong, but they haven't found anything. What makes you so sure that you can?" Theus attempted to pry away the vine around his neck, remaining upside-down by the Tangrowth's other arm.

"I've explored more dungeons than you can shake a stick at! I'm sure that I can find out what happened to it!" He exclaimed, becoming light-headed from being upside-down. The Tangrowth thought for a moment, then set the Lucario onto the ground.

"Alright, fine. I'll let you keep your head in exchange for seeing why the Plains have stopped shifting." He sent a vine behind him, and from that direction he pulled the large sack of supplies.

He at first brought it to Theus, but then pulled it away. "Wait, where's Tom? He went out to check for all of you." He asked. A weary Tangela tottered out from the wood behind them, very dizzy from the recent attack.

Tom almost screamed when he saw Laryon and the others, coming out as a high-pitched squeal, and quickly dashed back to where he came from. The Tangrowth sighed, and reached with his other arm toward him, and picked up Tom.

Tom hurriedly explained the situation he was in, completely illegible to Theus, Arianne and Laryon, but crystal-clear to the Tangrowth. He nodded every so often, and then looked at Theus suspiciously.

"You're not going to attack us any more after this, right? Tom here got slung into a tree, and he suffered a nasty hit to the head." Theus nodded quickly, eyeing the vine that gradually loosened its grip on the bag and moving steadily towards him.

"Of course, we won't! Now, can we please have our supplies back?" Theus asked nervously. The Tangrowth looked at him, then to the supplies.

"Not yet. If I give you these, then how will I know that you'll look into the Rapida Plains? You might just dash off with your friends." The Tangrowth argued. Theus smiled anxiously and wrapped his arms around both Arianne and Laryon, which turned out to be rather awkward for all of them.

"Nephew and savior actually. And anyway, just so long as we get those when we enter the dungeon, we should be fine. Now, which way to Coreth Village?" The Tangrowth set down Tom and picked up the bag once more.

"Just follow me and I'll take you there." The Tangrowth replied. He turned backward, and began to lumber through the forest. The others followed.

Laryon still wary of the Tangrowth, stood behind Theus as he asked, "What's your name?"

The Tangrowth, without turning, replied, "Thomas. Tom down there's my little brother. I'd rather not talk too much about my personal life until we make it back to Coreth."

Arianne and Laryon drew close to Theus, and spoke in hushed tones, as to not let the Tangrowth hear them.

"Should we trust this guy? He doesn't seem to like us." Laryon asked.

"Well of course he doesn't like us, we hit him across the face and legs!" Theus exclaimed. The Tangela turned back cautiously, causing him to quiet down. Tom leered at them for a short while, then turned back to follow his older brother.

After some time, Theus added, "While a strange turn of events, this turned out to be in our favor. We can get to this Coreth village without having to follow him in the shadows. What more, it will hopefully be guaranteed that we'll get our supplies back!"

"But what about the Rapida Plains? As far as I know, they should have stopped shifting like that for years. It just seems odd that it would suddenly do this." Arianne remarked. Theus' eyes shifted to the left, then back to her.

"I don't really know who or what would be causing this, but I assure you, we'll get to the bottom of it." Theus replied. He looked to the sky, wondering.

"I've seen this before..."

~~~~

Azure and Wenstrel returned to the kitchen to begin eating their breakfast. The Project Pokemon stood in line ahead of the prisoners; they eagerly received their meal from Gaska, who chuckled silently.

"You fools don't know your stuff! Everythin' good about this stew is sittin on the bottom, flavor and all!" He said quietly. It took time, but eventually the guests of Fort Ervine received their breakfast, with Azure and Wenstrel being first.

Gaska eyed Azure, checking to make sure she was clean. He sniffed cautiously, and ladled the stew into her bowl. "Don't look as clean as the rest of ‘em, but at least ya don't smell." Gaska said as he tossed in a slice of bread. She thanked him silently, then stepped towards the wall, where Erik cheerfully played with the bowl that held his meal.

She looked around for Ferrick, until an invisible hand set on her shoulder. She tensed up, then sighed after. "You really need to learn how to say 'Hi'." She told him. The hand left, and Azure could've sworn she heard him begin to lean against the wall.

"At least you didn't run off." Ferrick replied. He picked up a bowl from the floor, leaving another for Erik to play with. "I can talk more freely what with all the other guzzling down their food. Even your friend Wenstrel is busy." Azure looked behind her, seeing Wenstrel ladling stew and handing out bread to the prisoners, while Gaska sat on a stool and supervised. He didn't pay attention to him so much as he stared at the Chimecho. The Chimecho stared back.

The bowl moved toward a pile of other dishes, and tossed itself into it. Gaska and the Chimecho didn't even move. "Those two don't seem to like each other too much." Azure noted. Ferrick invisibly nodded.

"Gaska likes running things his way, while Ian likes to disturb that." Ferrick replied. Ian the Chimecho stuck his tongue out at Gaska, then promptly received a thwack by a ladle.

"I'll have no disrespectin' on ma turf, ya hear?" He exclaimed. Ferrick sighed.

"Anyway, you weren't doing anything but getting clean, right?" Ferrick asked. Azure, the thought of Zacheus in her mind, shook her head.

"Nope, nothing at all." She replied. Erik stopped playing with the bowl and trotted playfully to Azure. She kneeled, setting down her bowl, and then tickled the tiny Pokemon, who yipped playfully.

"You'd better finish that breakfast of yours. Soon the guests will be returning to their rooms, and that's when your second job comes in." Ferrick warned. Azure looked down at Erik sadly, then picked up the bowl, and proceeded to eating. Erik whimpered a little, then resorted to playing with the bowl on the ground, waiting for his new playmate.

She finished the stew and the slice of bread when the voice from before announced, "The kitchen will close in three minutes. Members, please escort the guests back to their rooms, then proceed with your daily duties." Pokemon, Project and prisoner, stood up, and formed a large line next to the counter. They dropped off their bowls at the start of it, then the Project Pokemon proceeded to gather the prisoners and drop them back off into their cells.

When all the guests and Project Pokemon left, Azure dropped her bowl off, with a mock cheer from Ian the Chimecho. "You're lucky that you got such a warm welcome! I figured after what Arthus as been through he wouldn't allow another one of you into his life." Gaska yanked his tail harshly, looking everywhere cautiously.

"No talkin' 'bout that, you know what the Boss does to Pokemon who talk about his private life." He grasped his neck for a moment, then turned to Wenstrel. "Quagsire, clean up all these dishes. I've some business down in the larder for the next mealtime." He went on toward the little door, and the heavy-set steps of the Bibarel could be heard receding downward.

As Wenstrel went on to do his job, the Chimecho harrumphed. "Matheus was no friend of his." Ferrick came out of invisibility and pulled the Chimecho away from the ceiling, causing him to screech.

"You do not speak that name under any circumstances! Understand!" Ferrick roared. Ian nodded vigorously, whimpering in fear. Ferrick reattached him to the ceiling, and leaned against the wall once more, clutching his face. Erik looked curiously to his uncle, ran up to him and mewed.

"My...head. It aches now because of that name..." He muttered. Azure chose to stay silent, not wanting to bring on any form of wrath from Ferrick.

She thought about why Theus might have such an adverse effect to Project Empowerment and its members, but she chose to stay silent on that matter. There was something that he is hiding from everybody, and she was determined to find out.

From her current position, however, she wasn't left too much. All of Project Empowerment seemed unwilling to even utter his name, let alone speak of why Arthus wants him so badly. Even if his utterance wasn't restricted, that wouldn't mean that they would be much help.

Erik ran around the kitchen with a bowl in his mouth wanting to play a game of chase. Azure complied, thinking to herself one thing: She was going straight to Arthus to understand why Matheus was such a target.
 
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Chapter 24

Azure caught the excited Zorua and brought him back to Ferrick, now fully recovered. He watched Azure carefully, never averting his gaze, not even for Wenstrel. The dishes proved to be a might chore, even for Wenstrel, experienced as he was. He didn't show it, but he was feeling worn down by the sheer amount left there.

"I'm sure that this is only temporary." He thought to himself. "Soon Azure will think of a way to get us out of here and through the canyon. I'm sure of it." He sighed longingly, wishing he was back at Respit Village, where everything was simple and he had the freedom to do what he wished, even if that was simply to wander.

Azure set Erik down in front of Ferrick, continuing to play with the bowl, and said, "I want to see Arthus." Ferrick stood erect, his eyes full of warning.

"Why would you meet with him? No complications have arisen since yesterday, and so far," He reeled inwardly. "you have done a fine job taking care of Erik."

Azure caught slightly off-guard by his sudden compliment, cleared her throat. "I want to ask something involving an important Pokemon that he seems so intent on having." Ferrick turned away, known exactly who she meant.

"He doesn't speak of him. Not anymore. It pains even me to think of him." Ferrick explained. He looked over to the hallway, where the guests of Fort Ervine lay in wait.

"Besides, you have a job to do. I heard that you'll be the new caretaker of all the children. With how long some of them have been here, I can tell that they'll need you." He added.

Azure, knowing what else she had to do, said, "At least tell me why you want my brother so badly!" Ferrick stepped back, moving his head vigorously to make sense of things.

"Wait, what? You are his sister?" Ferrick exclaimed. He looked up, rubbing his forehead. "Now I understand why Arthus wants to keep you here." He muttered while doing so. He looked to the left and right, and came next to her ear.

"Alright, listen. Your brother used to be friends, brothers in companionship, until one day they got into an argument. No one was sure what happened, but it was said that it was over a mysterious artifact. After that they parted ways, although Arthus considers him a traitor because he wouldn't go along with his plans for this artifact, and stole it. Now Arthus wants to have it back." Ferrick explained in hushed tones, looking around him every so often. The Chimecho tried its best to listen, but it could not hear what was being said.

"So why do I have to be here? Shouldn't they be trying to find The-my brother?" Azure asked. Ferrick nodded.

"They are doing that right now in fact. But that's not enough; many consider him dead since he went into the Were-Forest, where we believe a giant Trevenant lurks. No one that has entered has survived that place thanks to it." He said. "But Arthus believes he's still alive. He sends out search parties, and I now know that the main reason he didn't just kill you to begin with is because he knows that he'll come for you!" He looked out the far window, then looked back to Azure.

"You need to do what you've been assigned. Erik will go with you to the children's cells; I'll be nearby. No discussing this to anybody, or else they may just want to kill you for being related to...him." Ferrick finished. He evaporated into the air, and Azure was left with Erik in the kitchen.

She picked him up, and dropped off the bowl he played with to let Wenstrel wash it. He sighed, and began to scrub. "I hope our lives here will not be too difficult..." Wenstrel said.

Azure replied, "We'll find some way out of here, maybe; I won't be going outside while the Draco Canyon is around anyway. It's a wonder that we didn't cross by it on our way here." Erik struggled to get out of her grip, but she held on tight, and refused him that service.

Ian the Chimecho giggled. "This place is crazy like that. The Draco Canyon only really has Dragons at night. It’s funny like that." He laughed again, but quickly stopped when he felt the pressure of a claw against his throat. Ferrick rematerialized, a threatening look on his face.

"The next time you blab, you can kiss your little tongue goodbye." He warned. He vaporized once more, and Ian hung in the air, quivering.

"He's scary..." Ian whimpered. Wenstrel returned to his work, and Azure secured Erik in her arms.

"Best not to talk any more about this." Azure finished. Wenstrel nodded, and Azure went into the hallway.

~~~~

Azure's day carried on with her visiting cells, comforting children in their sadness, playing with them to make them feel better about being within Fort Ervine. She wished she could stay with them, but she longed to be away from Fort Ervine; she needed to find Theus and Laryon before they came here, if they did, in fact, get through the Were-Forest.

A while before dinner would be served, she came to the last child of the day. She went through the names of all the children she met, and groaned when she figured out this last one.

"Clera Sneasel. Oh boy..." She groaned. Erik wasn't at her side, as he was taking a nap in his room, with Ferrick temporarily watching over him. Still, Azure couldn't be sure that he wasn't around.

She set her paw on the handle, took a deep breath, and walked in. The room was covered in scratch marks, varying in depth, and a flurry of straw coated the floor, most likely what was left of Clera's mattress. In the far corner sat a dark-furred Pokemon, huddled away in the shadows.

"Leave me alone." She growled. Azure came in silently, closing the door behind her.

Azure sighed, and said, "I know that this must be hard for you-"

Clera turned around quickly and yelled, "Of course it is! My home is gone, I have no idea where my parents are, and everyone here treats me like a monster!" She scratched the floor harshly, the screech echoing around the room. She looked down at her claws, then turned back to the corner.

"My mom and dad said they'd come for me...and they will. I don't care what those guards say, I will get out!" She screamed. Azure tried to come near her, but she clawed in the air, forcing her to step back to avoid injury.

"Leave me alone! I don't need you! I only need my mom and dad!" Clera screamed. Azure sighed, and opened the door.

Before she left, she turned back, and said, "I know your parents are coming. But please, until then, try to make the most of it here. I don't like this place any more than you do, but I and the other children are trying to help each other while we're here." She closed the door to the heaving sobs of the cell's occupant.

~~~~

"Are you there?" Azure called. Receiving no reply, she carefully stepped towards Zacheus' cell, and knocked on the door.

"It's me, Azure. How are you doing?" She whispered. She could hear the padding of paws as the Incineroar came to the door.

He replied, "I've been recovering, if only barely. I heal quite quickly thanks to my calling, but I'll need a few days before I can be in fighting shape, and even then, I need to have the nourishment for it. They give me hardly anything to eat." Azure looked over to the kitchen, then back to the cell door.

"I'll see if I can get you something. My guardian should take care of Arthus' son, and so he can't always be there to supervise me." She heard Project Pokemon yelling out to make sure the 'guests' were ready to go to the kitchen to eat. "I'll try to be back soon!" She finished, then went dashing toward the dining hallway.

~~~~

"How much longer 'till we get there?" Laryon cried. They'd been walking through the forest for hours, and it seemed like the town of Karyon would never come into view.

Thomas the Tangrowth burbled with irritation and pointed ahead, "For the hundredth time, we're not that far!" They had carried on through the forest for hours, only stopping for a lunch break. The forest didn't change from the same endless trees that surrounded them in the Revenant Glade since they had begun.

"Now I'm getting sick of trees. We have to get out of here, or I'll go crazy!" Theus exclaimed. Thomas burbled once more to himself, keeping straight ahead.

"With your grizzled look, I would say you already are..." He muttered. Tom the Tangela agreed, nodding alongside his older brother.

Arianne looked around, feeling tired by the same sights and sounds. "It's amazing how vast this place is. It gets so tiresome though. I think it'd be nice to see some mountains, or a lush valley-" Her stomach grumbled. She laughed and added, "And a nice Pomeg Trifle. It’s been ages since I've had some of my mother's." Laryon's belly rumbled at the thought.

"Some Rawst-Pecha Bake from Wenstrel would be good right now..." Laryon thought. Theus had an unusually loud rumble compared to the both.

He held his stomach and cried out, "Stop, you're torturing me! I didn't eat as much as either of you did at lunch!" Thomas turned toward Theus and scowled.

"You ate a whole lot more than any of us if I remember correctly., You're just a glutton!" He bitterly replied. Theus harrumphed turning away.

"Doesn't help that they have the bag..." He muttered, still following the Tangrowth.

Tom dashed ahead suddenly and cheered, running past the trees and gone out of sight. Thomas looked up, his eyes beaming. "We've made it. Karyon sweet Karyon." Arianne, Laryon and Theus rushed past the trees to behold the long-awaited town of Karyon.

Down in the valley was a respectable establishment. Surround a massive tree was a slew of different small buildings. Kecleon's trademark hut could be seen, as well as a Deposit ox next to it. There were also several smaller shops of specialty wares, a medical house, and various houses. Pokemon, mostly Grass-type, walked down below, taking care of whatever business they might have.

Laryon sniffed the air, and found the delectable flavor of Cheri berry in it, a stream of steam curling up from one of the many buildings. "Last one there has to clean up dishes?" Laryon dared. Theus immediately began dashing down the valley slope, followed by the graceful gait of Arianne. Laryon laughed, and began to follow. Thomas and Tom looked to each other, shrugged, and began to slowly step down the hill after them.

"I haven't done dishes in my life, and I don't plan to yet!" A middle-aged voice yelled out. They ran down the hill, and the Tangrowth and Tangela looked at each other once more.

“Do you trust that Lucario?” Thomas asked. Tom shook his head.

“I thought so. That guy has something he’s hiding; I can feel it in my vines.” He added, looking to the bag, then turned back to Theus. “At least he won’t leave without this.”

~~~~

It turns out that Arianne, Theus and Laryon all made it down at the same time, so all of them would end up doing the dishes.

Theus scowled and turned away impishly. “You two can do them on your own. I’m going to keep my streak, if that’s fine with you.” Arianne sighed, and looked down to Laryon.

“I’m sure that unlike your uncle you’ve had a proper education of household chores?” She asked. Laryon was tempted to say no, with Theus mouthing the word, but he thought better of it.

“Yes indeed! Azure made sure that I was a helpful worker!” He replied. Arianne nodded, while Theus slapped his own face in irritation.

“Very well, with that taken care of, let’s find a place to eat.” Theus announced. He began walking one way with Laryon, and Arianne went another.

“I’ll look over on this side!” She said. And so, they went in to the bustling town of Karyon.
 
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The story is edging closer to my projected ending, and the plot's middle is slowly connecting to the end. I aim to finish PMDLU by Memorial Day, and will continue on other literary projects...or potentially a sequel for this. We shall see. For now, a new Chapter!

Chapter 25

Karyon was full of energy, with Pokemon running to and from building to building, all the while letting the great boughs above sway gently in the wind. Laryon brushed past children his age, them all giggling as they played tag. Arianne gracefully dodged a lumbering Gurdurr, who nodded in greeting as he passed. While the busy atmosphere could be felt, there was this feeling of peace that overcame those who looked to the sky or towards the horizon.

Theus, admiring the view, ran into a Slaking, who was staring blankly ahead. He looked down at Theus, his face unchanging. Theus smiled weakly, and lifted his hat in hello. "I-I'm sorry for running into you there, good sir. I-Is there anything I can do for you?" He asked, fearful for a negative reaction. The Slaking looked up again, then tipped to his right slightly. He continued to tip, until eventually he was on the ground, away from traffic, sleeping heavily.

Theus looked down, bewildered by the strange turn of events. "O-kay. Weird." Replacing his hat and raising his staff into the air, he searched for Laryon and Arianne briefly, and upon finding them, rushed to them and slid under Laryon, sitting him on his shoulders.

"Caught ya! Thought you could run away, could you?" He asked mockingly. Laryon laughed, and continued to look around.

"You're the one who ran off!" He exclaimed in good humor. The children playing tag came their way again, nearly tripping Theus. "It's so nice to see a town. It feels like it's been forever since we had to leave Respit." Theus nodded, being careful of his passenger.

"Agreed. It's about time we visited someplace like this. Plus, it's good for Arianne to see others since her blindness." Theus replied. He looked behind him, and seeing the huge form of Thomas, he turned around. "We don't want to miss out on our supplies; they'll be crucial for our journey to Dragonite Guild."

Arianne stood on the street, somewhat oblivious to what was going on around her. "It's been so long since I've seen so many Pokemon..." She looked down and smiled. "Or for that matter, seen at all." She looked around, and within the throng of the town, she searched for Laryon and Theus. She failed to see them.

Concerned, she looked for a landmark of some sort so that they might be able to find her again. The striking red cross of the medial center looked like the spot. "They know that I'm a healer. Surely they can find me there." She said. She began to walk to the center, moving farther away from those she was searching for.

Thomas and Tom looked down and up respectively at Laryon and Theus, who now stood in front of them. Thomas blubbered incredulously, holding the bag high in the air.

"You expect me to trust you to search the Rapida Plains? With this bag of goods that I could sell?" He blubbered. Theus set Laryon on the ground and looked crossly at the Tangrowth.

"Look, we made a deal. I'll search the plains, but I need to have supplies to go in there with. If they've stopped shifting as you say, then wild Pokemon won't need to exit, which means they'll be hanging around in great numbers. What more, they'll be taking up every Item they can, and there won't be enough for me to snatch up. So, if you want me to search the dungeon, then you'll have to let me have those supplies!" Theus fumed. Thomas, shocked, looked at Theus, and then looked down to Tom. The Tangela closed its eyes and hopped, the closest it could get to a shrug.

Thomas thought for a moment, then looked inside the bag. After a few moments he looked back to Theus and said, "Me and Tom still need some food for dinner, so how about this: We take out these berries from your bag." He took the three armbands out and held them up. "We'll eat the berries for dinner, and sell some out in the market. Also, you have to give me your word that you'll be back to tell me why the Plains have stopped. What do you think?" Theus held his head up with his chin, deep in thought. He then looked up to the Tangrowth and held out his paw.

"Deal."

~~~~

Arianne weaved through the various Pokemon travelling along the dirt roadway. There were several avenues that branched off from the main street, all meeting at the tree that grew in the center. A roundabout encircled it, and the Pokemon were careful not to touch the soil that the tree occupied, as if it was too sacred to contact.

A Tyrogue nearly ran onto the ground, until his father Hitmonlee stopped him, grabbing his arms. "We don't disturb the rest of the almighty Xerneas." He cautioned, ushering him away from the tree.

Arianne looked up at the tree, mouthing the word. She knew of Xerneas as the giver of life, filling Pokemon and plants with new vitality. She remembered hearing of him from her mother when she was young, along with the other mythical Pokemon.

~~~~

Her mind drifted back to the time she learned about Xerneas, and his darker counterpart. As a young Ralts, she sat on her mother's lap, pointing at a picture in book in her hands.

"Who's this blue Pokemon?" Arianne asked.

"That is the great Xerneas, giver of life and protector of the Tree of Life, the home of Arceus himself. Arceus made him to create Mew and the other Pokemon on this world, so that his creation may find use." Reya, Arianne's mother, replied. She sighed and looked up happily. "Ah, Arceus. Without him and his powers, none of this would be here."

Young Arianne smiled with her, but quickly stopped when she saw the opposing picture. "Who's this?" She asked, pointing at a red and black creature.

Reya's face turned to one of concern, and she turned the page, revealing a scene of the depicted Pokemon emitting a form of red energy against a large crowd of Pokemon. "That is Yveltal, the Destruction Pokemon. He takes the vitality of Pokemon, and after he takes it from many Pokemon, he goes into a sleep within the Cocoon of Destruction." She looked out the window, and towards a large tree. "Xerneas goes into a similar sleep, after he grants life to many." Arianne turned back the page, looking at the beautiful image of Xerneas once more.

"I like Xerneas. Is he asleep now?" Arianne asked. Reya smiled, and pointed to the tree.

"Within that tree lies the sleeping form of Xerneas. We dare not set foot on the soil he rested on, for he might wake, and he needs to create as much energy as he needs to make new life." She turned back of the book, flipping to another page. It depicted Xerneas on top of the symbol for Arceus, against the crimson energy of Yveltal. In the center of the picture lay two individuals, one blue and one red. They were simply shadows, with no definite shape.

"Someday, Xerneas will awaken to protect the Tree of Life and Arceus from a great danger, and an individual will fight alongside him against this crusader." She turned to the tree once more and said, "It's been generation since Xerneas was awake, but when he was, he used his powers to create the tremendous forest we live in now."

Arianne stared at the blue figure clashing against the red, wondering who it might be.

~~~~

"May I help you miss?"

Arianne blinked and shook her head, wondering where she was. She looked around, then saw who referred to her. She looked down, and saw a Nuzleaf tugging at her dress.

"You seemed to be lost in thought, so I assumed you needed help." The Nuzleaf asked. Arianne looked around, seeing the tree, where the slumbering Xerneas lay, and the buildings that surrounded it.

"Was there a village that existed before Karyon? That was here?" Arianne asked. The Nuzleaf stepped back a little and thought.

"Yes, if I remember correctly. Years ago it was attacked by some outlaws, I think it was named..."

"Coreth?” Arianne asked. The Nuzleaf clapped his hands and nodded.

"Yeah, that's it, Coreth! After it was attacked, Xerneas awoke, and healed this place of the devastation. What survivors were left came back and founded Karyon." He pointed toward the medical center and continued. "Some time ago someone from Coreth came here. She fled Coreth, and came back here to see what remained. She found this, and has stayed her ever since." Arianne beamed, knowing exactly who this individual was.

"Can you introduce me to her?" Arianne asked. The Nuzleaf bowed, and held out his hand.

"I would be happy to! Follow me!" He exclaimed. He began to walk to the medical center, and Arianne followed.

~~~~

Aram sat uncomfortably at the dinner table, staring down at his food. Remus had still not returned from the Creation Continent, which was unusual considering the short process it takes to evolve. If he had forgotten to go there, he would have returned to Harmony and to the Electivire Guild.

The other Pokemon ate, chatting and enjoying themselves, unaware of Aram's problem. He stood up, picked up his plate, and walked out of the room. The Guild members didn't pay much attention to this, knowing how their Guildmaster sometimes is.

He marched up to his room, and, shutting the door behind him, set his plate of Figi Berry Steak on the table. He looked down on it and sniffed. "Never cared for this stuff anyways." He turned away from the meal, and looked out the window.

In the distance, he could see the distant light of the Rhyperior he had asked earlier to investigate the Thunderous Caverns. Normally, he wouldn't go out at this time of day, but with the halting of the Dungeon's shift, there was no need to fear being consumed. Still Aram felt uncomfortable letting the Rhyperior go by himself.

"He's experienced...he won't let me down." Aram muttered. He turned to the wall, where a portrait of five Pokemon hung. In the center was Guildmaster Metagross, protector of the Deity Continent. To the right was Delphox, guardian of Creation. The left, Dragonite, Guardian of Serenity. To the far right was himself, Guardian of Harmony. Finally, there was Guildmaster Ludicolo, Guardian of Wayfare, to the far left. These five made up the Council of Guilds, the main governing body of the Equivos region.

He sighed, holding his hand up to the portrait, passing Dragonite and Delphox. "It has been so long since we have held council together, and I feel the need for one more than ever. Project Empowerment is growing, and we still don't know where they are, or where they will strike next." He pointed at Ludicolo, who smiled happily as he spread his arms out.

Aram smile, remembering their dancing competition. "Ah, you have always been the most entertaining Luke, or Larry as well like to call you. Despite the fact that you live in a desolate continent, you provide relief to many, with the vast resources that the Bountiful Crater has to offer. You provide joy, and I could really use that now."

He moved on to Debra Delphox, who stood solemnly, with her wand in her hand. Aram thought of their deep discussions involving the cultures of the continents, and their discussions as to how to govern them best. “It’s sad that you’re gone now. You have led many, and through the politics of this world, have unified us.”

He moved to Martre Metagross, chief executive of scientific research within the Guild Council, in his ever-imposing standing position. “We would not have gotten as far as we have without your various tests on these Mystery Dungeons, Martre. I hope that we do not lose you, for we will need you help in determining why the Dungeons have stopped.”

Carla Dragonite hung in the air, smiling as she swooped downward. “You provided inspiration for all, and encouraged the creation of the Guilds. Without you, we would not be where we are today.” He clenched his teeth, balling his fist. “If only Barty proved more loyal.” He breathed in deeply, relaxed, and moved to the final figure: himself.

His twin tails quivered as he saw himself. In the portrait had his arms in the air, and he smiled wide, joyful at this turn of events. He thought to himself the events that happened that day.

It was their latest Council of Guilds, and he remembered that there was a special announcement. Guildmaster Dragonite had come with a guest, and she wanted to congratulate him. For some reason, he couldn’t remember who it was, although he should have known, because this individual had saved Equivos.

He looked harder at the picture, and in the back of his mind, he remembered someone sitting on top of Martre, the empty space above making him think so. Now the figure was gone, with not even an outline. He shook his head, thinking that he must be going mad.

“’A memory can never go away, no matter how small. They are always within our minds; it only takes something to push it to the surface.’” He quoted, remembering the sage words of the Legend Uxie, Guardian of one of three Lakes of Enlightenment on the Deity continent. As the bringer of memories to the civilized Pokémon, she would know of memories the most.

He turned away for a moment, and then turned back to the portrait. He squinted, nodded toward the portrait. He took the food on the table, and slipped it all into his mouth.

“I’m going to need nourishment for the journey ahead.”
 
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Chapter 26

Dusk turned to night as the Project Pokémon locked down Fort Ervine, all of them ready to sleep in their Barracks. They ensured that all the cells were locked, all doors were sealed, and that the outside wall had a Phantom Patrol, the team of Ghosts that guarded the wall from Dragons in the night. Despite the peaceful glow of the full moon, the ‘guests’ of Fort Ervine slept uncomfortably, knowing within their hearts that there was some dark purpose for them being there.

Azure stood by as two Project Pokémon hefted a bed into Erik’s room, Ferrick’s thanks for her service. Due to Ferrick’s situation of faking death, Arthus had to give the order for him.

“Remember, she’s taking care of the heir of Ervine, so we need to give her the best accommodations possible.” His disembodied voice echoed, coming from a mysterious place in the room. One of the Project Pokémon, a Pangoro, grunted with the effort.

“Who even took care of the kid before she came around? He’s always running around, but no one seemed to be following him.” He asked the voice.

“None of your business. Just do your job.” The voice replied, a hint of irritation in it. The stuffed Pokémon from the night before had been moved aside to make room for the bed, which, while not too fancy, was comfortable.

In the kitchen, another two workers were working on bringing a bed into the room where Wenstrel slept, a tiny alcove next to the main galley.

“How do we fit this thing in?” One of them exclaimed. Gaska clouted him, spitting the floor.

“You just do ya job, as Arthus says!” He replied. Wenstrel stood aside, waiting for any orders. He felt the longing to simply wander the fort, but had to restrain it due to his current occupation of sous chef.

Azure also waited, but rather than waiting for orders, she wanted Ferrick to finally go to sleep. She hid part of her dinner underneath a pile of cushions, and she wanted to get it to Zacheus before much time passed.

The bed was finally in place, and the Project members left the premises. Ferrick returned to visibility, seeing Erik rub his eyes exhaustedly. He picked him up and set Erik in his bed, saying, "We best get some sleep. Tomorrow will be another day, doing this once more." From the window, the distant roar of dragons could be heard, signaling the dangerous time of night.

Ferrick positioned himself against the wall, and Azure got into the bed. It wasn't the most comfortable thing in the world, but it was certainly better than the bare floor. Erik began to snore lightly, a little black ball of fur on top of a large cushion.

After a moment, Azure thought that Ferrick had gone to sleep. She almost went out of the bed, before Ferrick suddenly said, "Do you care for your brother?"

Azure, surprised by the sudden question, tried to make it look like that she was asleep. Ferrick opened an eye, and sneered.

"I know that you're awake. Now please, answer me." Ferrick added. Azure stopped faking, and looked at Ferrick.

"Why do you want to know? Don't you hate him with a passion?" Azure asked. Ferrick nodded, only slightly.

"I do, but sometimes a different point of view on things is welcome. Everyone in this place has heard of him, and most dislike him for no reason, as they joined Project Empowerment after we formed. The only ones who really hate him are me, Maxim, Gregorius, Gaska, and, of course, Arthus." He sighed, adjusting his cloak.

"It gets rather boring hearing the same things all the time around the place. And also, hardly anyone talks to me. Gregorius and Maxim sometimes do, but they don't often talk about anything except their plans. Gaska just likes to irritate me, and Arthus is too busy with his grand ideas of empowerment." He continued. Before Azure could ask what he meant by that, he added, "I’m just tired of being a wall flower here in Ervine, and while I don’t care about your well-being, I don’t mind talking about some things.” He looked hard at her and finished, “Don’t think about getting close though.”

Azure, wondering if she should trust him, thought about the situation. If she declined, then she could go to Zacheus and get him his meal after Ferrick was asleep…maybe. If she told him the story involving Theus, it would take time…but she could potentially make her life with Ferrick more manageable; most of the time he lay somewhere in the shadows, out of view, and it would be nice if he trusted her more.

She took a deep breath, and sat up on the bed. The night was still; the Project members were all asleep in their barracks, and the children were asleep in their cells. Gregorius, Maxim, and the other commanders of the Project lay asleep in their quarters, and Arthus stood in his Tower of Wisdom, gazing over the canyon as Dragons flew by.

Azure looked at Arthus and asked, “Could I call him Theus?” Ferrick shrugged, and waved for her to continue on. She nodded, and took another deep breath.

“Around 8 years ago, me and my brother, Derek, and his wife, Saphira, lived in our hometown, Quantus Village.; it was a wonderful place. Everyone knew each other, and we held no grudges against others. There were some arguments every so often, and sometimes they affected everyone else. Those didn’t last long, and life was great.

“One day, Derek and Saphira had a son, that they named Laryon. They were so happy, and I was too; I was finally an Aunt! The news spread throughout Quantus, and everyone, who had been patiently waiting since they had their Egg, had a celebration with our family. It was one of the best days of our lives.

“That day, we had a surprise visit by my other brother, Theus. I can’t remember where he was returning from, but he came the day after Laryon hatched; I have no idea how he learned about him. We always loved him, but he always seemed more distant from us, due to his adventurous nature; we were content with staying inside Quantus for the rest of our lives, but he wanted to go out and see other villages, and even meet a Legend! Can you imagine?

“Anyway, he came, and when Theus saw Laryon, he kneeled on the ground, as if in shock. ‘I’m an uncle…’ I remember him saying. I guess it put into perspective what stage he was in life, just as it did for me, and it was a lot for him to take in. He wanted to play with Laryon, but given how young he was, we figured that it would be better if Theus waited.

“He couldn’t stay long, as there was something he had to take care of; my memory is just not so great when it comes to what Theus has done. Before he left, he gave Laryon his pendant, which he said he found in an ancient dungeon, and risked his life to retrieve. He wanted Laryon to have it as a sign of is love. I'm not sure how true that is, but Laryon has kept it ever since.

"Life continued on in Quantus, and for a few months, there was peace. Laryon grew, and began to walk around. Life couldn’t get better.

“That’s when tragedy happened. It was a normal summer day, and I was out with Derek and Saphira, helping them with Laryon. Suddenly, a huge Pokémon came from over the mountains, and it stormed down to Quantus. Following it was a swarm of various other Pokemon, all wearing the same silver armband on their left limb. I looked up at the massive Pokemon, and was horrified by what I saw.

“There on top was Theus, just standing on the beast, and watching as Quantus was brought down in flames. He jumped off its head, and began to run towards us. We ran, but Theus was faster. We were afraid for our lives, and it was my own brother threatening them.”

She began to cry after saying this, and she turned away from Ferrick for a few moments. She forced herself to calm down, and wiped away her tears. She sniffed, and continued:

“But one Pokemon came from the same mountain, and fought off the assault. Before Theus could strike, the Pokemon came in and parried the blow. The two fought, and I and Derek and Sapphira ran, with each of us protecting Laryon.

“Other Pokemon began to pursue us, all the other villagers dead or dying. The Pokémon ran away from Theus and began to fight off the other Pokémon, saying ‘Protect Laryon!’, and we continued to run for the Forsaken Falls dungeon.

"The beast came towards us, and with a swipe of it's claw, it blocked the entrance. The evil Pokemon surrounded us, and soon we would have died. I was holding Laryon at the time, while Derek and Saphira fought alongside the mysterious Pokemon. Theus came again, and ordered the Pokemon to restrain the mysterious one. It took dozens of them, but they tied him to the ground, and kept him still.

"He challenged Derek to a duel. He didn't want to fight Theus directly, but he was forced to. They fought each other, with Derek using his aura, while Theus strangely didn't use it, and instead used some sort of red energy. Derek was forced to the ground, and then Theus asked him to look him in the eye..."

Azure was beginning to choke up, and she finally finished it, "He never got a chance to say anything before he was finished. Saphira was challenged next, and she was dealt with the same way. I was next, and poor Laryon had to stand aside.

"Before he challenged us, he fingered Laryon's pendant, and smiled viciously, unlike I've ever seen him. He said, in a dark voice, 'I've finally found it...the Seal of Creation...'. Right after he said that, the Pokemon broke free, and punched him right into the eye of the beast above. It fell to the ground, and while he fought the rest of the Pokemon, he blasted a hole with his energy, ordering us to leave. I fled with Laryon, and the entrance was sealed behind us."

She weeped for Derek and Sapphira, and had to stop for a time. Ferrick had turned away, his eyes closed, and his face full of discomfort. Erik sat still, his chest moving up and down rhythmically.

Azure wiped the tears away, determined to finish her story. "The Forsaken Forest hadn't had wild Pokemon in it for ages, and so it was peaceful the entire way to the path to a village known as Respit. I went there, and told everyone that Quantus was gone. I never told them about Theus, the Pokemon, or the beast." She looked to Ferrick, who was still turned away, and simply stared at him.

After a minute or so, Azure asked, "So tell me, what do you think I think of Theus?" Ferrick turned around, and sighed.

"There's something amiss in your story." He said. Azure, wondering what he meant stood up.

"What do you mean?"

"I mean, you said that Theus gave Laryon the pendant, or the Seal of Creation, himself, right?"

"Yes, so?"

"The Theus that attacked you said he finally found the Seal, yet he was the one who found it and gave it to Laryon." Ferrick explained. He stood upright now, his face full of concern.

Azure thought of what he said, and came to a realization. "You mean...that Theus who attacked...wasn't Theus at all!" Ferrick nodded.

"I loathe him, but even if I now can't remember much of him, I remember how he was. He never said anything in such a way, and he never used red energy. There is only one Pokemon I know that has used red energy like that." Ferrick said. Azure came out of the bed, inwardly cursing herself for treating Theus like she did.

"Who uses this red energy?" She asked. Ferrick looked up, and then looked side-to-side. He motioned for Azure to come closer, and when she did, he said one thing:

"Arthus."

~~~~

Aram stood on top of the plateau that made his home, and next to him hovered a Bronzong, awaiting instruction. The light of the Rhyperior had disappeared into the dungeon, and all the Guild was asleep. Far above him, clouds rumbled with energy.

Aram turned to the Bronzong, and in his hand was a carved mallet, engraved with a variety of symbols, the one in the center of the being the Arc of Arceus. He banged the Bronzong with the mallet, and a wave of energy reverberated from the Bronzong, emanating and expanding outward.

~~~~

"Where could she be? She was with us a second ago!" Theus exclaimed, searching frantically through the dying crowds of Karyon village for Arianne. Laryon ran alongside him, the Seal clinking across his chest, the slip of paper secured in its weave.

"Maybe she got lost?" Laryon suggested. Theus sighed, and readjusted the pack across him.

"Well, we are too, if that's anything to say for it." Theus replied. He turned to the Tree of Slumber, and gazed distantly at it.

Just then, a wave of energy passed through them, sending a dim light on the ground around Theus' feet. He looked to the direction it came from, and heard these words:

"I call all Guildmasters under the name of Arceus, for a Council of Guilds to determine the fate of the Equivos region on the Deity Continent, home of the Legends, or my name isn't Guildmaster Aram Electivire."

The message ended, and the light around his feet faded. Theus quickly looked to Laryon, to see if he had noticed. Laryon was looking at the Tree, and failed to notice the wave or the light.

Theus sighed, and looked back to the Tree. He then thought to himself, "Change of plans. We have to go to Deity."
 
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Chapter 27

Theus looked around, hardly believing his thoughts. A new Council of Guilds has been called! This would provide the greatest opportunity to call the Guilds to action against Project Empowerment!

He smiled, but only briefly, as he remembered the purpose of the Council. A problem needed resolved in Equivos, and that problem could only be the Project. Maybe they'll already be willing to help! He needed to leave, to enlist all five Guilds.

He turned to Laryon and frowned. He couldn't leave Laryon here, especially not after what they've been through. There were so many things he wanted to tell him, and it had not been too long since they've journeyed with each other either. He needed to convince Laryon to go.

Laryon turned to Theus and asked, "What tree is this? It feels alive...I mean, more than usual." Theus sighed, and kneeled down next to him.

"This tree is known as the Tree of Slumber. Within rests a Legend, known as Xerneas. He protects the Tree of Life, the home of Arceus, in times of danger, and grants vitality to those around it." He explained. Laryon stood in awe.

"Wow... a Legend." He whispered. He thought about old Yarra, the elder of Respit Village, and the final time she ever told a story.

"The Adventurer might have met Xerneas." Laryon said. Theus cringed, and turned away.

“Never mention it again.” He warned.

“Why not?” Laryon asked, irritation in his voice. Out of all the heroes he’s heard about, he held the Adventurer in the highest. All the others were okay, but only the Adventurer could boast of being the best.

Theus sighed, and turned back to Laryon. He looked deep in his eyes, and said, “That legend is a falsehood created by the loss of memories. The story had been lost, and new stories were invented to make up for it. There are a select few things that are actually true about it: The Adventurer, the Betrayer, the Guild, and the village that was destroyed.” Theus stood up, silently taking away the slip of paper from the Seal.

“There is no need for him to know…not until we get to Deity.” Theus thought, hiding the paper in the bag. He grabbed out an apple, and tossed it to Laryon.

“Come on, enough of that lie. Let’s go find Arianne.” Theus said. Laryon snatched the apple, looking down at it, then looked up at Theus. He smiled weakly, and began walking along the mostly-empty streets. Laryon followed.

Laryon thought as they walked. How could Theus know what was true and what wasn’t? He just showed up one day, and that’s what started this chain of events! If he never turned up in Respit that day, Azure would still be with him, and they would be safe at home.

He took a bite out of the apple, and looked around. Not much had happened since leaving Respit, come to think of it. They went through the Were-Forest, or the Revenant Forest, and met Arianne. Without this turn of events, Mewtwo wouldn’t have healed her. Arianne would have been stuck in that hut with only Phantump as companions. She would have died without making contact with any other Pokemon for the rest of her life. He realized that fate maybe helped her in that regard.

He gulped and looked to Theus, who was walking solemnly, the staff in his hands beating against the ground rhythmically. He radiated something…different, than what he was usually like. Laryon couldn’t place it, but there was definitely something off.

“Arianne! Where are you?” Theus called. Soon after an apple core bonked his head, flying from the second floor of a house.

“Oi keep your mouth shut, will ya! Pokemon are sleepin’ ‘ere!” A voice called. Theus stuck his tongue out, and with a flap of his cloak, continued onward.

Laryon chuckled, and took another bite of the apple. Theus was mysterious, but he was entertaining too. Still, he had to come clean about who he was sooner or later. If they were going to be travelling for much longer, he needed to know why he should bother.

Theus turned around, circling the sidewalk, and sighed. “She doesn’t appear to be anywhere in sight. She must’ve gone into a building, but who knows which one it is.”

“Over here!” A voice called. Theus turned around and saw Arianne atop the medical house, waving to them. Theus waved back, as did Laryon.

“There you are! How did you get there?” Theus called back. Another apple core landed on his head, from the same house as before.

“I told ya to keep ya trap shut!” The voice said irritably. Theus harrumphed, and ran over to Arianne, Laryon following.

“Well that was easy!” Laryon said. Theus said nothing back.

Arianne stood waiting at the door alongside a Nuzleaf when they arrived, the Nuzleaf holding at a welcoming hand. “Welcome to the Karyon M.C. gents! My name’s Nix, and I believe you must be familiar with Arianne here.” Theus shook the hand, then Laryon.

“Thanks very much! It’s nice to see that Arianne’s safe.” Laryon said. Nix laughed, and he patted Laryon across the back.

“She was never in danger, I can assure you of that. Of course, you might be if you think stomach aches are dangerous. Our lovely host is quite a cook, and she’s all too happy to supply you with a meal.” Nix replied. Theus rubbed his paws across his belly, supporting his staff with his arm.

“Mm, nothing better than a home cooked meal, or any meal for that matter. And who would this host be, if I may ask?” Theus inquired.

Arianne, still smiling, opened the door and said, “I’ll give you a hint; she’s a relative very important to me.” Theus entered, thinking.

“Hmm…uncle twice removed? Aunt? Nephew? Some distant cousin perhaps?” Theus mused. Arianne shook her head at all these.

Laryon thought as he entered the doorway, seeing the clean oaken floors and shelves filled with jars, all seen under candlelight. Arianne is a masterful healer and chef, and there was only ever one Pokemon she talked about, aside from Theus.

“It can’t be your mother can’t it?” Laryon asked.

“Oh yes it can! Welcome to Karyon, young Laryon Riolu, the Chosen of Arceus!” An elderly voice bellowed. All heads to the balcony above as a Gardevoir stepped out.

She was shorter than Arianne, and her face showed many more wrinkles, and her dress also flowed more from her frame. Her eyes, however, shown far more brightly, and despite her age, she stepped grandly out of the other room to see them.

“And a good welcome to you Matheus Lucario, Guardian of the Chosen, former Guildmaster of Lucario Guild, and the Deity Elect of our fair Equivos!”

~~~~

“It must be! I can’t believe it, but it has to be!” Azure stated. The thought of Zacheus slipped her mind as she paced the room, questioning her thoughts of her dear brother for the past eight years.

Ferrick shook his head as he said, “I’ve known my brother to do many things, many horrible, but they were usually for good reason, insubordination mainly. But that was a new low for him, as far as I can remember.” Azure turned to him in surprise.

“You’ve never heard of this? At all?” She asked. Ferrick shrugged.

“No, never. Strangely enough, when I try to think of my time before Fort Ervine and Erik, my mind just grows fuzzy.” He replied. He closed his eyes for a moment, then opened them again, flickering with realization.

“What if Arthus planned this? I love him as a brother, but for moves like that, I can’t support it. The plan to take children to here is bad enough, but I at least support his motive. That however…” He shook his head.

“It’s too much. I never cared for much of anything, but that blatant loss of life is just ridiculous. And with the method you described, it makes it more so.” Ferrick said. Azure looked to him, seeing that there was a less shady side to her mysterious guard.

“What is this plot for these children? That is the biggest question I’ve had the entire time I’ve been captured by this despicable project!” Azure exclaimed. Ferrick sighed, and turned away.

“It’s not your business. While I do agree what Arthus did was wrong, it is not enough to turn my loyalty from him or Project Empowerment’s cause.” Ferrick said. He turned to her again, with warning. “And don’t think you can make me reveal it. That information is for Project members only, discussed under locked doors, and under the oversight of Arthus or his commanders.” He turned away once more, and went back to his sleeping position.

Azure stamped her foot, angered by this move. “So you’re not going to do anything to help? He destroyed my town, and nearly killed me and Laryon with it!” Ferrick closed his eyes, and pulled his hood over his head.

“You’re lucky Arthus didn’t consider this room important enough to put a hearing tube into, or else you’d be dead by now. Look, I can’t openly help you, even if I wanted to. However,” He looked at her with a single eye. “I would be willing to turn a blind eye in the night. Arthus deserves some silent retribution, and since I know you can’t release any prisoners, I think it’s safe to let you go. I’m warning you though:” He held up a claw, pulsing with purple energy.

“While Arthus may be quick, I’m even quicker. If you even think about letting loose any of those children, I’ll make sure you die a quick and painful death before you even notice it.” He closed his eye once more, and leaned backward.

“Feel free to overhear what you want. What harm can you do there?” He finished. Azure said nothing, remembering now Zacheus’ meal. She went out of the room silently, and looked back in. Ferrick made no move.

She went ahead and took his word, and grabbed the food from under the cushions. She padded silently through the halls of Ervine, the roar of dragons nonexistent. The cold Liechi salsa with chips would do the mighty warrior of the Forgotten Isles some good.

She knocked on the door, and whispered, “Sorry it took so long, I had to wait for my guard to loosen his watch.” She heard the scrape of fur against the floor, and saw the huge figure through the cell window.

“No matter, at least you’re here. I can take what you give me through these bars.” He replied. Azure slipped it through, and soon after, heard the ravenous munching of the Incineroar.

It soon stopped, and Zacheus said, “Excuse me, it’s been so long since I’ve had proper food. For at least a week now they’ve stopped giving me food in hopes of breaking my spirit, but they’ll find that harder now.” She heard a slurp, and the smacking of lips.

“Reminds me of home in a way. Anyways, as long as I stay quiet in here, continue to get these meals at night, I can probably break free at some point. As to when, that’s a harder question to answer.” He breathed out slowly, and added, “I’d say in about two weeks. It’s a rough estimate, but by conserving my energy, I may just be able to do it.” Azure nodded, and shut the cell window.

“Sounds good to me. When you get out, we can set free all the children, and escape through the Draco Canyon.” She said. She remembered the Dragons, and strangely enough, their threatening roar didn’t sound through the air as it did earlier.

“Does this Draco Canyon have any wild Pokemon? I remember going through the Dungeon that brought me here, but it seemed pretty barren. There was hardly even a Berry on the ground.” Zacheus said. Azure thought, but a low moan through the hallway disrupted it.

“Regardless, we’ll go through when its time. I’ll meet you tomorrow night at this time.” She finished, and she quickly returned to the soft bed, and the silent night went on.
 
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Now that I have continued writing this story, I feel that I may be to the halfway point rather than close to the end. My aim is still to finish by Memorial Day, and as long I complete one Chapter each day, I should be able to meet that goal.

Chapter 28

All but Reya sat uncomfortably as they ate their Wacan Berry Stir-Fry. Laryon eyed Theus warily as he slipped a bite between his lips, while Theus tried to avoid eye contact as best he could. Arianne tried her best not to look at Theus suspiciously, but it came in vain. Nix the Nuzleaf simply looked down and ate his food.

The homely kitchen was surrounded by a variety of ingredients, for healing and culinary arts alike. A fireplace sat in the corner, and a little glass window let a beautiful view of the Tree of Slumber through. Volbeat and Illumise fluttered on their nightly duties as their dinner continued.

Laryon scooped another bite, and popped it into his mouth. “So…you’re a Guildmaster?” He asked. Theus cleared his throat, and took a drink of water from his cup.

“The Deity Elect? Guardian of the Chosen?” Laryon asked. Theus set the cup down, and looked away.

“You don’t know what I’ve been through. All I did was-“

“For my own protection, I think I get that. I’m getting the same feeling I got from back in the Were-Forest.” Laryon interjected. He slammed the table and exclaimed, “Why didn’t you say anything about this?”

“Enough!” Reya exclaimed, holding her arms in the air. She sat back down, and continued eating. “Everything will be answered in good time. For now, simply enjoy this meal I have put much effort towards. I tried my best to follow Azure’s recipe and design, but I can only do oh-so-much as a seer.” Theus said nothing, as did Laryon.

The meal continued in silence, until Arianne asked, “So Nix, how did you end up working for my mom?” Nix, eager to end the anxiousness, happily obliged.

“I wasn’t always a servant you know. Before I met Reya, I was a thief, and a darn good one at that. I was sneaking into this very home before she saw me.

“I thought I was done for, but she gave me a second chance, to help her with errands to retrieve rare items for her potions and other such things. Lately however…” Nix sighed. “The Rapida Plains have stopped. Normally I’m the first one in the morning to go into them, snatching all the rarest things before anyone else, and then I’d go back through the exit, and end up back here. Of course, now all that’s in there are wild Pokemon.”

Reya nodded sagely. “Project Empowerment is to blame. Them and their accursed leader, Arthus Zoroark.” Theus stood up, knocking his chair over, and he marched to Reya, rage in his eyes.

“What do you know about him!” He asked. Reya spooned more of the stir fry into her mouth, and she swallowed.

“In due time. I know more than you think. But, how about I answer some of your questions.” She replied. As Laryon and Theus were going to speak, she held up her finger and said, “No questions about Project Empowerment, Arthus, Theus, or why I care.” Having most of their inquisitions depleted, Theus and Laryon sat on their chairs, thinking of other queries.

Laryon then asked, “How are you able to know so much?” Reya clapped her hands together and laughed.

“Now there’s the right question! Story time!” She set aside the plate and silverware, and shut her eyes.

“Years ago, I ventured across the region as a wandering healer, ready to spread my gift to everyone. I brought many a good thing to those I met, but I didn’t become who I am now until I came to the distant continent of Deity.

“Deity is a beautiful place, and is the true home of the Legends and Myths. While they may hold strongholds in other regions, it is here that they make their abode. The Lakes of Enlightenment, the Tree of Life, the Peaks of the Elements, all exist there. Despite these sacred realms, many Pokemon live where mortals may tread, if they pay tribute to the Legends that protect and create our world.

“While spreading my gift, I encountered an odd sight: A star fell from the sky and I saw the bright flash of light where it landed. Worried for anyone there, I ran to the area, and saw a most beautiful thing.

“It was a rock of pure black and green, shining with the stars and glowing with power. I picked it up, and I had the chance encounter of a thousand lifetimes: Jirachi, the Myth of Wishes. He came to me, and asked me a simple question: ‘For discovering my resting place, I may grant you one wish.’

“Here was my reply: ‘I wish for the power to know how to help all with their needs, to see how to come to pass what must be!’ Jirachi looked at me, and raised his arms to the air.

“’For your selfless wish, I grant you the powers of prophecy, to gaze into the future, and assist all to become what they must!’ There was a bright flash of light, and I fell unconscious.”

She opened her eyes, and held out her hand. “Ever since that moment, I have been grateful for my gift, and have done my best to provide a good future for all.” She closed her eyes, and grimaced.

“Of course, not all lives can have happy endings. Some souls in this world wish for the best, but seek the wrong methods to reach their dreams. Souls such as those a part of Project Empowerment.” She finished. She shook her head, and smiled once more.

“Enough on such dark matters. Is there anything else you wish to ask?” She said. Although Theus and Laryon both has things to say to each other and Reya, they knew that she wouldn’t have it.

Hearing no other questions, she said, “If there is nothing else, then we should head to bed. All our unanswered questions can wait until tomorrow. Only then shall everything be made clear.” She stood up, and asked, “Nix, would you mind taking Theus and Laryon to their rooms? I’ll have my daughter sleep with me.” Nix bowed, and motioned for the uncle and nephew to follow. They did so, and all went out of the kitchen.

As they exited, Nix said, “Don’t worry, she acts like this all the time. Any time she has anyone over, she always gets them wanting to ask the important questions, but saves them until the day after. You’ll get what you’re looking for.” Laryon looked at Theus, who averted his gaze.

“I hope I can know why Project Empowerment attacked us, or why they even exist in the first place. It better not have anything to do with you.” Laryon warned. Theus frowned, and covered his face with his hat.

Nix lead Theus and Laryon into opposite rooms, and shut the door after them. Laryon held his head and yelled, angry at this turn of events.

“Why are you such a liar!” He roared. He pounded the pillow of his mattress, and thought very closely about his uncle.

Theus never seemed to want to harm anybody, least of all Laryon. He only wanted to protect him, and even with what little they’ve been through, Laryon felt like he’s known Theus for a long time. It’s as if they met some time in the past, and only now are they getting to know each other.

This lead on to thoughts about himself. Who was he? Just the nephew of a figure with great accomplishments that no one remembers? A child who lost his caretaker to group with vile goals? One who had his fate twisted by uncontrollable events?

How did everyone else see him? What was he like? He thought of his time in Respit, and he didn’t seem to be any different than anyone else. He was average, nothing the world could notice in a lifetime. He was Theus’ shadow, and he travelled wherever he went. He was too young to do what he wants, but too old to be considered a liability.

Theus dominated, because he was older, more entertaining, and more foolish, than Laryon was. Theus refuses to give what Laryon deserves: the truth. Theus was a good teacher in the Were-Forest, but nothing he has done so far could make up for what he has hidden: his relation to Project Empowerment, and why he feels the need to hide everything from his only other relative.

Laryon, overwhelmed by these emotions, cried into the pillow, and tried his best to push out these thoughts. He wanted to sleep, to be comforted, to have some sense of assurance that all would make sense. He wanted to feel special, and despite the Trevenant, Mewtwo, and Reya, he didn’t feel like that. He felt like a young Pokemon dragged out of his perfect world into one that sought to destroy him, first with Project Empowerment, then with the Were-Forest, and finally with Thomas the Tangrowth. What more could happen?

He fell asleep soon after, but fitfully as dark images bombarded his mind, of a dark figure, with red energy, and a dark pair of eyes hanging overhead.

He fought an onslaught of Pokemon, the shambles of a village around him. He saw Azure and two other Lucarios, and in the center an infant Riolu, with a pendant around his neck. He fought these Pokemon, and dashed to the owner of the dark eyes. Theus stood atop it, a fiendish look in his eyes, his paws covered in red energy.

He dashed upward and met with Theus, looking into his eyes, seeing something his uncle seemed to be devoid of: Hate. Theus swung at him saying, “Behold Life Energy, which stands stronger than your Aura! I shall make this world come only to good works, and no evil! I will empower myself to be stronger than Legends and Myths! I will be a Friend to the World!” He fought Theus, and heard the call of a beast, seeming to be the herald of oblivion.

~~~~

A Tranquill flapped through the wind, making its way to the Harmony continent, and to the Gigawatt Plains. Waiting there was Aram Electivire, who hurriedly readied his Guild for a journey to the Deity Continent. The peaceful night changed not, and nothing prevented the Tranquill from reaching his destination.

The Pawniard at the entrance did nothing to halt him, and he walked to Aram’s private quarters, seeing the master quickly assembling his things. He turned around, hearing the flap of wings, and grinned.

“Remus, my dear friend! I am so glad to see that you are safe!” He said, dropping them on the desk. He came closer, and whistled. “Newly evolved as well. Hopefully you won’t forget to deliver my messages anymore.” Remus chuckled and bowed.

“Yep, no more forgetfulness for me. Where are we headed to Guildmaster?” He asked. Aram turned more serious, and returned to packing.

“We must head to Deity Continent for a Council of Guilds. The threat known as Project Empowerment has grown, and we must discuss this with Guildmasters Ludicolo and Metagross.” Remus cocked his head and wondered.

“What about Delphox and Dragonite?”

Aram sighed, and stopped for a moment. “They have disappeared, most likely by Project Empowerment’s hand. As long as I live, however, I will avenge them.” The same Rhyperior that went to the Thunderous Caverns burst into the room, covered in scratches and bits of rock missing from his frame.

“Sir! I have just returned from the Caverns! The exit room has been completely destroyed, and what appears to be a sphere of some sort has been taken from the center of it!” He exclaimed. Aram dropped his belonging once more, and thought.

“The Life has been taken from it. The final room was destroyed to find it. I remember Martre saying something about the Life of the Dungeons, and how that that is the things that generates new items and rooms for us to explore. The Heart must have been stolen by Project Empowerment.” He said. He turned, and thought some more.

“The information about the Hearts was known only to us Guildmasters, and even if Dragonite and Delphox were captured, they are too strong to give away such valuable knowledge. There is only one explanation.”

“Whoever is behind Project Empowerment must have found out for themselves.”
 
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Hopefully this surge of Chapters isn't too much for people...ah well!

Chapter 29

In the middle of the night, Azure awoke, and she heard Pokemon, talking amongst each other in a secretive fashion. She looked to the wall, and saw that Ferrick wasn’t there. She got out of her bed, and slowly opened the door to the kitchen. She saw two shapes, both the same, and listened.

“You are doing well, Ferrick, for not killing Azure on the spot.”

“I never intended to harm her.”

“Then you should always keep that thought in your mind. While I may trust her to take care of my son, it is only because of certain events.”

“What certain events?”

“Events you need not care or worry about. They happened years ago, and I will say that you are a better Pokemon because of them. More loyal, more stoic, more…me. Regardless, I must go out. I’ll be gone for several days, so keep the illusions going at night. I must go to find a rare artifact, known as the Cocoon of Destruction.”

“Not that wives’ tale! They always say, ‘be good, or Yveltal will come!’ because of the fear of it. Besides, even if it is true, you’d be mad to use it. You know full well that our purpose is useless if there’s no one alive to see it come to fruition.”

“You’ll soon see that it is very important to the plan, just as the Seal of Creation is. Now see to it that Azure learns nothing about the Seal. I trust you more than Maxim and Gregorius combined. If you were to betray me, then it would have the direst of consequences for you and myself.”

“…understood. I’ll make sure she doesn’t hear of it.”

“Wonderful. Now good night.” The figure in black turned, but Ferrick reached out to stop him.

“Wait, Arthus!” Arthus turned back.

“Yes?”

“About Azure…she seems familiar to me. I can’t place it, but I think I’ve met her before…numerous times, in fact…but I can’t remember. I wonder, did these ‘certain events’ have to do with her?” Azure’s heart beat faster.

Arthus sighed, and put a claw on his shoulder. It glowed with red energy, and he said, “No, they never have.”

Ferrick mimicked him, saying in monotone, “No…they never have…” Ferrick clapped his hands together and chuckled.

“Now off to sleep. No more about these thoughts of Azure, or of anything she said.” Both turned in opposite directions, Arthus to the hallway, and Ferrick to his room, a dazed look in his eyes.

Azure quickly slipped back into her bed, hiding in the covers to make it seem like she was asleep. Ferrick came in, shutting the door behind him, and he proceeded to lean against the wall, as he always did. Azure dared not to look.

~~~~

The next morning, Erik woke her up, licking her face and yipping playfully. She opened her eyes and yawned, grateful for the comfortable bed. She looked to the wall, and saw that Ferrick wasn’t there, but on the floor, sleeping soundly. She picked up Erik, and came out of bed.

“It’s going to be breakfast time soon, isn’t it?” She asked him. Erik yipped in reply.

Ferrick groaned, and held a paw to his head. “Ugh…what time is it?” He asked.

“It’s nearly breakfast time. Better get up, or Gaska’s not going to let us eat.” Azure replied, opening the door. Ferrick quickly composed himself, turning invisible.

Azure remembered the night before, and kept quiet. She now knew that she needed to figure out what the Seal of Creation did, and why Arthus needed the Cocoon of Destruction, the vessel for the sleeping Yveltal. He would only wake when the time came to take the life of all Pokemon in the world, and afterwards, he would sleep until the time came again, after Pokemon repopulated through the powers of Xerneas.

She remembered the legends well, telling them often to Laryon. As she received her meal she hoped in her heart that her beloved nephew was alright with Theus to guide him.

~~~~

“Rise and shine everybody! Breakfast is ready!” Nix called out. Laryon rubbed his eyes wearily, and yawned. He got out of bed, smoothed down his bed head, and opened the door.

Theus opened the door, his cloak and hat off and his staff absent. His grizzled fur seemed more evident than before, and ruffled from what appeared to be a fitful sleep. He yawned, smiled slightly, and smacked his lips.

“A good breakfast is always something to look forward to, right Laryon?” He asked. Laryon said nothing, and went on to the kitchen. Theus’ smile disappeared, and he followed.

Sitting on the table were pancakes, with a large bottle of Chesto berry sauce in the center. Arianne, looking better than both Theus and Laryon, happily sat down. Theus and Laryon looked at each other, and sat down on opposite ends of the table.

“Good morning everyone! Did you all get a good night’s rest?” Reya asked as she entered the room.

“Simply wonderful! It’s far better than sleeping at the cottage!” Arianne replied. Theus and Laryon nodded, grabbing pancakes and covering them in sauce.

Reya nodded, and said, “Yes, I regret leaving you at the cottage we called home after the attack on Coreth, the village that once stood here. Without you, however, Theus would have surely died, and Laryon would not be able to complete the quest he must succeed in.” Before Laryon could say anything, she added, “I will answer all questions privately after we have finished our breakfast.”

Nix, Reya and Arianne continued making small talk, eating their breakfast happily, while Laryon and Theus sulkily ate their own. Laryon wanted answers about his uncle, and now, but he knew that if Reya was there, she wouldn’t allow it. So, they continued, the din of Birds echoing from outside.

When all had eaten, Nix took away the plates and remaining cakes, and brought them to the sink. Reya smiled and said, “Thank you Nix, I’m not sure what I’d do without you.” She stood up, with difficulty, and said, “While my voice and senses are clear as ever, my body is not doing as well as it did years ago; I hope that I can fulfill my purpose in life before it is time for me to go.” Arianne winced at the last line, but said nothing.

“Now then, I will answer anything you may ask. Theus first, then young Laryon. I’ve already told Arianne what she wanted to know.” Reya said. Theus stood up, and before he could speak, Reya said, “In my divination room, if you please.” She motioned for him to follow, and both went out of the kitchen. The slam of a door could be heard, then nothing.

Laryon pounded the table and exclaimed, “Why does he get to go first? What does he need to know?”

Arianne stood up, came next to him and replied, “Please be respectful in my mother’s home! You should be grateful that she’ll even tell you anything; the last time I was with her, she was unwilling to use her prophetic powers for much of anything, so just wait and let her talk with Theus.” Laryon sniffed with irritation, and turned away.

“Doesn’t help that Theus feels like a Pokemon with a dirty secret most of the time.” He muttered. Arianne sighed, and kneeled next to him.

“Maybe it’s because he has a dirty secret to hide. If he is really a ‘Deity Elect’ or even a Guildmaster, there must have been a good reason to keep it from you.” Arianne said. Nix remained washing the dishes, listening intently.

Laryon groaned and said, “But shouldn’t he trust me with things like that? I’m his nephew for crying out loud! The only other Pokemon he could talk to is Azure, and she’s wherever Project Empowerment is.” He looked down, his face full of emotion.

Arianne looked down with him, and embraced him. “Do you have any idea what this dark secret could be?” Laryon continued looking down.

After a moment, he said, “When Mewtwo spoke to me, he said that because of Theus, many bad things happened, and that he broke a happy little family…while holding a portrait of me and my parents.” Arianne reared back, seeing what he was connotating.

“You don’t really believe that he would do that, do you?” She asked incredulously. Laryon shrugged, and turned to the window, seeing little Pokemon play around the resting place of Xerneas.

“I don’t know. With what’s happened, maybe he’s just trying to take care of me not just because of Azure, but also because he feels responsible for my mom and dad. I don’t like to think that, since he’s never seemed to want to harm anybody unless they wanted to harm him.” He replied. Arianne didn’t say anything, and returned to her seat, leaning her head against her arm on top of the table as they waited. Nix exited the room, leaving the dishes to dry next to the sink, the suds in the water gradually receding.

Minutes passed by, and Laryon continued looking out of the window, watching the leaves of the Tree of Slumber move hypnotically. He focused on them, and after a while, he fell asleep.

~~~~

He was in a living room, the sunlight outside just coming over the horizon, and the surroundings seeming larger than he would normally think. He saw Azure, younger, and two other Lucarios. One was above him, holding him, while another was next to him, humming a familiar song.

She eventually sang, saying these words:

“Riolus grow up to be strong

They all never take all that long.

But remember for all your life

That I will always be with you.”

The other Lucario took over, him singing:

“Riolus are full of joy and love,

Lucarios with strength and heart.

Just remember all is within

Our son that is named Laryon.

Azure took over, singing:

“When life is dreary and hateful,

Do not turn away and be hopeful.

Try your best to change it for good,

And be as a strong Lucario would.”

The door opened, and the song stopped. In the doorway was a cloaked figure, holding a staff, his eyes covered by a hat. He took off the hat, and set aside the staff, revealing himself to be the elder brother, Theus. He stepped closer, something glittering in his paw. Azure stepped back, a wide smile on her face, and the Lucario next to Laryon smiled as well.

Theus came in front of Laryon and he lifted a pendant over Laryon’s head, setting it against his neck. He smiled himself, his eyes tearing up. He took a deep breath, and exhaled slowly.

“I will not be here for long,

But remember even in the throng,

That I will always be there,

Protecting you in the darkest hour.”

Theus turned back to the door, taking back his hat and staff. He opened the door, revealing a bright white light. Before he exited the room, and gave a cheerful wink to Laryon. He then left the room, leaving the door open, and disappeared into the light. The room became filled with the bright light, the dream ending…

~~~~

Laryon woke up suddenly looking around wildly. It was noon now, the sun high above the Tree. Arianne was asleep on the counter, and Theus was still gone. He remembered the dream vividly, wondering when it was, and who the two other Lucarios were. A thought slipped into his mid, and he grinned, small at first, but growing.

“Mom and Dad…” He said, whispering as if they were sacred words. The door opened suddenly, and Theus entered the kitchen. Arianne woke up, blinking rapidly, while Laryon turned back seeing his uncle more downtrodden than before.

He came next to Laryon, his staff in hand and hat over his eyes. He kneeled, and looked up at Laryon, sorrow in his eyes. He pressed a slip of paper in Laryon’s paws, and said two words:

“Forgive me.” Reya entered the room, her face solemn.

“It is your time to learn, Chosen.”
 
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Chapter 30

Reya opened the door to a new room, holding her arm wide, showing Laryon that he should enter. The room was small, large enough for only two Pokemon. Within were walls and walls of various scrolls and orbs, not light-blue like Dungeon Orbs, but crystal clear. In the center stood a low table, a green orb atop a yellow ring in the center. There were two cushions on either side, and hanging overhead was a crystal chandelier, all the candles lit.

Laryon took the cushion closest to the door, the paper clutched in his paws, and Reya closing the door and locking it, took the other cushion. She did so with strain, her face creasing in pain, but soon after she took a neutral expression.

“I am old, Laryon. Soon, I will leave our fair Equivos, and my purpose will be fulfilled, as revealed to me through Jirachi when I received the powers of prophecy.” She motioned to all the scrolls, the ones at the top covered in dust, while those on the bottom brand new.

“In my time where I don’t have a client, I take to looking into the future and past of Equivos. Prophecies that were fulfilled I write histories, while prophecies to come I leave. Those that have come but are not fulfilled I record in the form of scrolls.” She said. She picked up a scroll from the table, an unrolled it.

“In this scroll lies the most important of these prophecies, The Future of Life or Death. Read it, and make what you will.” She said, handing the scroll to Laryon. Laryon took it, and began to read:

‘In a time after memories are lost, a being shall attempt to eliminate evil from this world. He shall take control of a once-great body, and a Cocoon of immense power. He will awaken the Legend within, and with the Seal in hand, take the Life of those it takes, and the Legend itself. He will challenge Life itself, and take the almighty Creator by his arc, and claim Creation as his own. Then will he rid evil by ridding good.’ Laryon looked up, his mouth agape.

“That’s Project Empowerment’s goal! To take Arceus’ power and destroy evil…by using the kids they took to fuel it.” He said. Reya looked down, and advised him to continue reading. He did so:

‘The Future of Death is inevitable, unless the Chosen of Arceus claims the Seal as his own, and saves the Cocoon from destruction. The Tree of Life will prevail, and Life shall rise triumphant, banishing the usurper to a realm of Destruction, living within the Cocoon until the day of awakening. The Future of Life can only occur if the Chosen so chooses it.’

Laryon looked up, and realized what the significance of his Seal was. “The Seal can steal the powers of Legends, and make whoever wears it owner of those powers.” Reya nodded.

“Indeed, but that can only be done with the most precious of all: Life. Life Energy is within all Pokemon, appearing as a red aura when withdrawn by the powers of Yveltal for his sleep.” She pointed at Laryon saying, “You are able to use a similar power, known as Aura, which takes the spirit of a Pokemon, and manipulates into a form to be used. Unlike Life, Aura doesn’t forfeit the life of those it taps into, and is free to use as long as the user remains spirited in his desires.” She sighed, looking at the scroll.

“One wishes to cleanse this world of evil, by eliminating all life. He holds no faith in Pokemon after years of work done to help them for the better. No matter how much he tries, helping others defeat Outlaws and rescue those attacked by those without the blessings of the Enlightenment, the wild Pokemon, never affects the world in a substantial way. Even with the greatest Guild in the region, the Lucario Guild, he couldn’t succeed in his wishes. Now he wants to fulfill this prophecy, to ensure that evil will truly be gone from this world.” Reya explained. Laryon looked down, thinking of the name Theus reacted so strongly towards.

“Arthus.” Reya nodded.

“Yes, Arthus. He is a Zoroark that follows the power of Yveltal, taking the Life of those that have it strongest, the children of this world. Even now, he keeps prisoner many of those souls, in preparation for the fulfilling of the Future of Death.” Rea continued. Laryon, astonished by Arthus’ intentions, wondered what drove him to such lengths.

He looked down at the slip of paper that Theus had given him for the second time, and carefully unfolded it. He gasped in shock, and saw an image of nine Pokemon. In the center was Theus and a young Zoroark embracing each other and smiling. Beneath them was a Metagross, and to the left was a Ludicolo and Delphox, and to the right was a Dragonite and Electivire. In between the Dragonite and Delphox was a Magmortar and Gengar. All grinned happily, as if in celebration of something.

Laryon recognized the Magmortar and Gengar as Maxim and Gregorius respectively, and the Zoroark had to be Arthus. At what time was this portrait taken, and what was being celebrated? Who were the other five Pokemon with him? There were too many questions.

Reya studied the picture and said, “I will let Theus explain himself after we are finished here. For now, I want to tell you why no one remembers him or the Lucario Guild, and why in its stead The Legend of the Adventurer and Betrayer exists.

“When Arthus turned his intentions toward the fulfilling of the Future of Death, he tried to convince Matheus, Maxim, and Gregorius to his cause. Maxim and Gregorius felt the same pains as Arthus did, and were willing to fulfill it; they had lost faith in Pokemon kind. Matheus however, did not feel the same.

“As the co-founder of the Lucario Guild with Arthus, he wanted to provide the best service to Equivos, his intentions being to reach out to the entire Pokemon world once they succeeded in breaking the mist wall that surrounds Equivos. He knew that good lay within other Pokemon, and he would never halt his cause because of the few among many that turned to their selfish desires.

“Despite Matheus’ intentions Arthus turned the Guild to seek out the Cocoon of Destruction and the Seal of Creation, to fulfill the Future. He also took the imprisoned outlaws as the prisoners to use alongside the Guild to fuel the Seal to take Yveltal’s and Arceus’ power. Matheus quickly acted, seeking out the two Artifacts first.

“While they didn’t succeed in finding the Cocoon, Matheus found the Seal within the Catacombs of Legend, and quickly hidden it where Arthus would least expect it: Quantus Village, the true home of Matheus. Arthus quickly realized Matheus’ betrayal, and went to take the Seal for himself. He called on Yveltal and made a pact with him, exchanging the lives of the Outlaws for the powers of Life, and the promise that the world would be his and his alone to consume.

“He used those powers to conjure a Beast in the shape of Arceus, though opposite in nature. He stormed to Quantus, and attacked the village with the entirety of the Guild, convincing them that Matheus was betraying their cause to help all Pokemon no matter their need.

“Matheus rushed to protect you and his family, but couldn’t come in time to save everyone. He defeated the beast and drove the Guild back to their headquarters in Serenity. By that time, all the region heard of the atrocious acts committed by Arthus and the Lucario Guild. Despite his feelings toward Arthus’ decision, he felt he could change his mind, and wanted to protect him and the Lucario Guild.

“He went to Deity and the Lakes of Enlightenment to seek help. He contacted Uxie, Bringer of Memories, and wished to eliminate all memories of his Guild’s work on all the region. Uxie did so, being blessed with my powers as well, and the world forgot Matheus and the Guild.”

She stopped talking, and gazed into the ball of crystal on the desk. Laryon stayed silent, thinking about the story. Arthus had good intentions, but the cost was too high. Theus took the better approach to life, keeping faith in Pokemon until the end.

There were still gaps in the story, so Laryon asked, “What caused Lucario Guild to be so great? Who were these other Pokemon? When did he and Arthus become friends? How did Theus get along so well with the Legends? How did Project Empowerment form? How come he didn’t convince Arthus to become different?” He looked down, and lingered on the final question. “Why did he visit me on the day Respit was attacked?” Reya shook her head, and stood up.

“Your Guardian should answer such things in person. For now, I want to guide you to where you must go next.” She answered, grabbing a scroll from the shelves. She sat down again, moving the crystal, and unfurled the paper to reveal a map of Equivos.

She pointed to a corner of Serenity, saying, “This is where we are now, Karyon village. Miles from this place is Deedra Town, a harbor town that ferries people across the continents. You must go there, and head to Deity.” She pointed to a triangular pattern of lakes within the landmass of Deity. “Go to the Lakes of Enlightenment and the Stone of Quorums, where the remaining Guildmasters of Equivos will hold Council. You must convince them to join your cause against Project Empowerment, and find the Cocoon of Destruction before Arthus does. Only then can you prevent the Future of Death.” She pointed again to Serenity, opposite of Deedra Town, on the other side of the continent.

“Past the Draco Canyon, you will find the former headquarters of Lucario Guild, Fort Ervine. Project Empowerment makes their base there, and you will find Azure and the imprisoned children within. But I warn you,” She pointed at Laryon, and said, “Do not go there until you have found the Cocoon and enlisted the aid of the Guilds. The Pokemon there are too powerful, and attempting to free them even with the aid of the Guilds will result in failure at that point in time. Project Empowerment is strong, made so by the Arthus’ control over Life.”

Laryon repeated what she said in his mind, and nodded. He desperately wanted to see Azure again, but he knew that wouldn’t be possible for a long time. Reya took his paw, and patted it softly.

“Do not think I will leave you without your desire, young Laryon. I will give you your wish, with the last of my life.” She pushed the orb over the map, and held her hands over it. A blue glow emanated from it, and Laryon saw a wondrous sight.

He saw Azure, holding a Sentret on her knee, telling her a story. Next to her was a Zorua, listening intently, and behind her was a Zoroark in a brown cloak which he knew was not Arthus, for his face was not filled with the malice that Arthus held. They appeared to be a in a stone room, covered in straw and with a solitary window to the outside.

Azure said in a soothing tone, “The Sunflora thanked the great Ho-Oh for giving us the light of our world, and allowing her to evolve from a Sunkern. She became the herald of the sun, and so she looks to the sun each day to help everyone know that it’s light is present, even when it is covered by clouds. So, when you feel that the sun is gone, just now that the Sunflora sees it, and knows that you will experience its light as well.” The Zoroark behind her smiled, not willingly but instinctively, and shut his eyes, leaning against the wall. The vision ended, and Laryon was left in tears. He finally saw Azure, knowing with surety that she was alive and well.

Reya clapped her hands, and breathed slowly. She rasped, “Send Arianne to me…please. Go to Theus, and know the rest of the story.” Laryon looked at her, nodded quickly, and went out of the room, unlocking the door and leaving it open.

Reya looked down at her hand, seeing it quiver. She chuckled weakly, closing her fingers.

“Ah…what old age does to Pokemon such as I…”
 
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