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TEEN: Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: The Forgotten Isles (Chapter 50 Posted, Story Concluded)

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In a world where landmarks are never certain, trouble brews. In a distant chain of islands, a cosmic being flees from invaders, and on the mainland, contention in rivalries continue. Two pairs of rivals come together reluctantly to explore these islands, and save them from annihilation. These rivalries turn to deep friendships, and in their journey, they learn of each other, and realize the misconceptions they’ve had, in a place that hasn’t been explored in millennia: The Forgotten Isles.

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Welcome one and all to Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: The Forgotten Isles! I am your author and host, lucarioknight56, and I thank you for clicking this thread for your viewing enjoyment. PMDFI follows the story of five Pokemon exploring the untamed Forgotten Isles, where the Pokemon from last holiday season’s 3DS hit, Pokemon Sun & Moon, make—to my knowledge—their first appearance in a Mystery Dungeon Fiction. (Alright, technically my last fic, PMD: Legends Unraveled, did have an Incineroar…)

Before reading this story, I highly recommend reading the previous story, the aforementioned Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Legends Unraveled. If you continue without reading PMDLU, certain references and descriptions may not make sense to you, and also, who reads the sequel before reading the original?

NOTE: Unlike PMDLU, I did take special care to structure the plot and characters before writing PMDFI, and will make regular updates on Wednesdays and Saturdays, taking a weeklong break after the final chapter of each act. No, I will not go into a marathon like I did for the last twenty-something chapters for PMDLU. Don’t ask me again.

Anyways, with that out of the way, enjoy reading, and please, leave reviews and other comments. They’re scarce enough these days, and its little fun writing with no commentary along the way.

UPDATE!
PMDFI will now update every other Saturday, starting on August 19, 2017, with four chapters each update period. I cannot guarantee that number each time, but I will make my best attempt to ensure that there is.

Table of Contents

Act One: The Rivals’ Journey (Complete)
Chapter 01 (Prologue): A Divine Introduction
Chapter 02: Schoolhouse Contentions
Chapter 03: After-Class Thoughts
Chapter 04: Unexpected Conflicts
Chapter 05: Detention and Introduction
Chapter 06: Cosmog Journeying
Chapter 07: Special Visitations
Chapter 08: Duo Dissonance
Chapter 09: Guardian Enlistment
Chapter 10: Joining Stories
Chapter 11: The Great Departure
Chapter 12: Origins and Beginnings
Chapter 13: Dungeon Ferocity
Chapter 14: The Elusive Woods
Chapter 15: The Seafaring Commences
Chapter 16: Maritime Misadventure
Chapter 17: Newfound Revelations
Chapter 18: The Raging Encounter
Chapter 19: Sorrow Succumbed
Chapter 20: Shipwrecked Apart


Act Two: The Forgotten Explorers (Complete)
Chapter 21 (Interlude): A Divine Investigation
Chapter 22: First Encounter
Chapter 23: Close Call
Chapter 24: Solace at Sunset
Chapter 25: Of Queens and Trees
Chapter 26: Cloak and Dragon
Chapter 27: Runaway Recovery
Chapter 28: Night of Reflection
Chapter 29: Marshed Continuance
Chapter 30: Wimpish Togetherness
Chapter 31: Guardian Guidance
Chapter 32: Koko Confusion
Chapter 33: Of Sea and Sky
Chapter 34: Alliances Achieved
Chapter 35: Tribal Awakening
Chapter 36: Cascading Sides
Chapter 37: Ultra Pursuit
Chapter 38: Storming Showdown


Act Three: The Bestial Conflict (Complete)
Chapter 39 (Interlude): Dimensional Disasters
Chapter 40: Bulu Arrival (+Writer's Thoughts)
Chapter 41: Passimian Discovery
Chapter 42: Of Two Minds
Chapter 43: Ascension into Light
Chapter 44: Conversion Completed
Chapter 45: Conflicted Ascent
Chapter 46: Ultra Comeuppance
Chapter 47: Guardian Disposal
Chapter 48: Final Frontier
Chapter 49: Triumphant Return
Chapter 50 (Epilogue): Years Later...
 
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Act 1: The Rivals' Journey
Chapter 01: A Divine Introduction
Beginning of Act 1: The Rivals’ Journey

300 Years AU (After the Usurper)

In a distant region, Legends live. Equivos, a location where only Pokemon live within the world, and where Mystery Dungeons exist. Deitae, domain of the legends; Harmonia and Serenita, lands of mortal Pokemon. And the Forgotten Isles, the long lost place where ancient deity lie. This tale--

"Bah, too boring!"

A pencil flew through the air, clattering to the wooden floor of a cone-shaped room. Upon further inspection, one could see that the room was within the bark of a massive tree. The room narrowed toward the ceiling, letting a shaft of sunlight from the boughs above. Leaves shining with all the colors of the rainbow hung high above, shifting with the breeze, tiny yellow lights darting and dancing in an everlasting swing. Within the room was a small oval desk, with a sizable stack of paper and a cup full of pencils on next to it, with a swirling purple orb in the corner.

A black paw reached down for the pencil, lifting it into the air. The paw belonged to the arm of a Lucario, with silver fur where the blue would ordinarily be. Despite this color shift, he looked quite young, his chest-fur golden and his legs and paws onyx. His eyes shown with curiosity and intrigue, inspecting the sharpened pencil.

He rubbed his chin, thinking. "I can't start my tale with something so dull. I have to be more creative, or this entire thing will be ruined!” He sat on the chair in front of the desk, tapping his head with the pencil, leaning on top of the surface. From the stairwell behind him, a floating purple figure came up, peeking his head over the banister.

“Whatcha doin’ Matheus?” the figure asked.

Matheus sat up and groaned, slamming the pencil on the desk. “Hello Hoopa, once again. What do you want?”

Hoopa floated behind him, setting an arm on the silver Lucario’s shoulder. He pointed at the swirling purple orb, cheerily smiling. “Have you used my gift yet?”

Matheus set the pencil down and lifted the orb from its ornate golden pedestal, the violet surface softly glowing. “Your ‘Orb of Transcendence’? How do you know it even works?”

Hoopa tsked, taking the orb from Matheus’ paws, hovering in front of him. He set it back on its pedestal, the purple swirls within continuing their trance. “Matheus, Matheus, Matheus. Can’t you have some faith in me? You’ve been a Legend for 300 years! There’s got to be a bond there!” he exclaimed, referring to the fact that he was a Myth, similar to a Legend in that they are immortal. The difference lay only in name.

Matheus shoved him away, looking to the wall. “Leave me alone. For the past 300 years, you’ve taken to annoying me without end. It’s a good thing Lucario Guild has your bottle in their vault, or else I’d use it just to wish you out of my life.”

Hoopa put a hand over his chest, putting the other over his head in mock agony, cringing. “You have stabbed me through the heart Matheus! I’ve been a loyal companion, helping you see Equivos and snag the occasional treasure from a dangerous Mystery Dungeon!” he exclaimed, wiping away a faux tear. He quickly abandoned the ridiculous pose and rubbed his arm, dejected. “Plus, I’ve been lonely. Being a Myth’s tough, you know, having to wait for someone to find you, then you do something for them in exchange.”

Matheus sighed, pulling up the chair and facing his crestfallen companion. He clasped his paws together, leaning on his arms on his lap. “Fine then, let’s have a chat. You want me to use your orb. I want to write a story. How can we do what we want together?” His tail wagged impatiently as Hoopa looked to the air setting his hand on his chin as he thought of an answer.

He beamed, turning Matheus back to the desk, pushing it closer. “How about you use my Orb to find a story to write?”

Matheus took a pencil, setting the tip in his mouth as he considered the Trickster’s suggestion. He shrugged, pulling the Orb closer and setting his paws on top of it. “Might as well. I can’t seem to think of a story to write myself, so let’s see if we can find something somewhere else.” He closed his eyes, his black appendages rising slightly.

Hoopa tittered with delight, setting his hands on top of the Orb as well. “Oh, I can’t wait!” Their thoughts became less-crowded, filling with clarity and vision. They felt a strange pulling sensation on their chests, beginning to feel lighter in body.

Matheus opened his eyes, looking down. He saw that he was floating above himself, his body in meditation while his astral form hovered above him. He looked down at his paw, the limb transparent. He tried to cry out, but discovered that he couldn’t, the yell coming out in silence. He tried to speak properly, pronouncing simple syllables with his lips, but found that it was futile.

“Silly, you can’t talk!”

Matheus turned around, seeing the transparent form of Hoopa floating behind him. Matheus inwardly groaned, wishing that his persistent companion didn’t come with him.

Hoopa waved to him, clutching his belly and making a chuckling face. “Astral projections can’t talk. Just think out your words!” Hoopa’s voice explained.

Matheus rolled his eyes, focusing on Hoopa. “How’s this!” he thought, his voice booming.

Hoopa clutched his head, cringing. “Not so loud!” he cried. He shook his head, freeing his ears of ringing.

Matheus sighed, and said slowly, “How is this?”

Hoopa clapped his hands, nodding appreciatively. “Bravo, bravo! Very well done!” he said excitedly. He floated through the air, just as he would with his physical body. “I’m used to this sort of thing, but you’ll need practice. Try thinking of moving forward; that should do the trick!”

Matheus did as he asked, shooting forward and passing through the wall, silently screaming as he did so. He stopped just outside, disoriented by the new view. He hovered in front of an enormous tree, rainbow leaves crowning above, and a massive trunk extending to gnarled roots below. The clearing that held the tree had new lights coming from them continually, popping from the soil and floating into the sky. It was the afternoon, the breeze soft and the Luminescent Woods surrounding the clearing as peaceful as ever. The Tree of Life towered over the woods, its life-giving light basking the land below with vitality.

Matheus took several deep breaths, amazed by the sudden change of events. “Beats sitting around all day I suppose…” After his turning to a Legend, he took to exploring Equivos, and for many years he went to brand new areas. He grew bored after 200 years of it, and while it is his favorite thing, he took to other hobbies. He tried cooking, but discovered it was as boring he imagined it to be. He tried knitting, but paws weren’t very good for that sort of thing. He tried various other activities, until it finally came to writing.

Hoopa followed him out the wall, looking around. “At least you got outside.” Hoopa said, chuckling.

Matheus turned to him, putting a paw to his lips. “From now on, just follow me where I go and stay quiet. Let’s see if we can find something good to write about,” he warned, drawing closer to Hoopa.

Hoopa nodded, tracing his hand over his lips, sealing them. Matheus drifted away from the Tree of Life, thinking of the best place to look for a tale.

He searched all Deitae, the home of the Legends and Myths. There lay many landmarks to the deities of the Pokemon World, such as the Lakes of Enlightenment, Full and New Moon Isles, the Gracidea Fields, and more. It was a magnificent array of wondrous environments, the different areas all having the Luminescent forest surrounding them. The Alakazam Guild monitored this continent, researching the legendary properties and rescuing those trapped within the monuments, basing themselves in the high cliffs of Mortil.

Matheus continued, displeased. Deitae was his new home; he explored every inch of it, meeting the Legends and Myths after he himself became a Legend. There was only a small development of mortals on the coast of the island, and there were no Mystery Dungeons on the continent, so there were no fun interactions to have. He drifted toward Harmonia, the largest of the three continents of Equivos, the sea rushing beneath him and Hoopa.

He scanned Harmonia, crossing the Gigawatt Plains, the Frigid Ice Floes, Mount Inferno and many other locations, all desolate for most Pokemon, but perfectly respectable to those that could stand it. All lived in harmony in their environments, hence the name of Harmonia. The Rhyperior Guild kept the peace here, saving Pokemon in these dangerous biomes from the Dungeons, holding outposts in each of the realms, their headquarters in the underground tunnels of Digdun.

He crossed by Venocide Marsh, the overpowering stench of the swamp overtaking his nose. He coughed, amazed that the smell could affect him even as a spirit. He knew that Harmonia was a poor choice for a story; too many hostile environments, even if there were plenty of Pokemon and villages within them. He sighed, moving toward the final continent, Serenita, the rolling ocean frothing beneath him.

Serenita boasted the less hostile environment of the region: rolling hills, rising mountains, magnificent canyons, vast forests, peaceful lakes, and many other benign areas. Serenita contained the most villages, usually popping up after one or two Mystery Dungeons. Serenita is also the home of the illustrious Lucario Guild, the only one that has jurisdiction across all three continents.

Matheus yawned, scratching his transparent shoulder. While he loved Serenita, it had been peaceful for the past 300 years, ever since the defeat of the Usurper Pokemon, Arthus Zoroark. There have always been Pokemon in need of rescue, and many rescue missions went unfinished still. But the Lucario Guild had grown strong, and has no need for assistance...or a commentator.

He floated in the air, leaning on his back. He could go to the Archipelago of Cretea, but he knew that few Pokemon remain there after the conflict with Groudon and Kyogre; the only reason Pokemon still visit the area is for the Luminous Cavern, the only place Pokemon can evolve quickly and instantaneously. There had to be one location he forgot.

A gale blew by, drifting to the south. He looked over, seeing one of the most defining features of the region: The Mist Wall. No Pokemon has crossed the Mist Wall since time immemorial, the rolling and spiraling cloud of fog that surrounds all sides, ending the supposedly endless ocean. No one knew what lay behind it, the mysteries within tempting to any explorer.

Matheus grinned, rocketing toward the wall. He didn't know if one could actually cross it in his state, but might as well. Night was falling, dusk reaching its last legs, the Pokemon of Equivos settling for sleep. Hoopa floated behind, excited just as Matheus was, remaining as quiet as he could. They stopped in front of the mist, the peaceful yet foreboding clouds thick and opaque. Matheus and Hoopa looked at each other and nodded, floating cautiously into the giant Mist Wall, heading southward to what could be a new location.

The mist pushed past them, the endless wall consuming them. They felt the pressure to turn back, but knew that they must see what lay beyond. Darkness fell; the light grey mist turned to blackness in the night. They pushed onward, the mist seemed to grow lighter and lighter as they continued.

A vast ocean without walls loomed in front of them. Storm clouds hovered overhead, silent and foreboding. Down below, four large islands broke up the sea, distant from the shores of Equivos. All held a single pillar in the center, depicting a totem-shaped Pokemon on top of them. Jungles, plains, mountains; all the different biomes existed on these islands near each other.

Hoopa beamed, spinning in the air. "The Forgotten Isles! That has to be it!" he exclaimed. Matheus nodded slowly, thinking of what could lie unexplored in these four islands.

Lightning struck the water, thunder crashing overhead. From the island with a bull-shaped statue, several figures could be seen on the beach. Matheus looked to Hoopa, then back to the beach. They had to see what was happening. They drifted to the beach, seeing four grey and gold scaled reptiles, standing on two legs. One stood mightier than the rest, decorated with longer chains of scales, having a golden helm on his head. In the center of the four was a tiny puff of blue and purple clouds, with a black face and yellow ring around its body.

Next to the beach was a boat, supported by a pontoon, and laden with some supplies. The large Dragon stomped closer, leaving the three smaller ones behind. He drew the cloud Pokemon closer, pointing at the boat. The Pokemon nodded, floating into the boat.

A loud screech sounded overhead, and all the Pokemon, astral and real, turned to see the source. A long sliver of silver light hovered in the air, emitting an elongated screech. It split open, expanding into a large hole in the sky. Three beings shot out of the hole, one red with muscular arms, another white with slender limbs, and the last a transparent tentacled creature. The hole remained in the air, the three creatures landing on the soft sand of the beach, just yards away from the dragon Pokemon.

The elegant white Pokemon stepped forward, her arm on her hip. She stood upright, her hair nearly touching the ground, her antennae drooping to her legs. She held herself confidently, staring coldly at the Dragons.

"The Cosmog will not leave this island. Do as we say, and you can remain alive," the feminine figure said, pointing at the craft.

The large dragon clenched his fists, holding them in the air. "The Kommo-o tribe will protect Cosma as she leaves for the mainland. Only the Tapu Pokemon can direct our kind, Pheromosa."

Pheromosa turned to the red bug-like creature, the being pounding his fists together. She gestured to it, and said, "Then Buzzwole will enjoy taking your lives away. Do not say we did not warn you." She then turned to the jellyfish-like being. "Come Nihilego, we must return to Ultra Space."

Nihilego waved her tentacles, grabbing onto Pheromosa's arms, lifting her into the air. They flew toward the hole in the sky, the dark lights within spiraling from the alien dimension.

Buzzwole stepped forward, his metallic proboscis pointed at the Kommo-o. The dragon pushed the boat into the water, the Cosmog away from the island. He turned to the beast, roaring and stamping the ground.

Buzzwole chuckled, his four legs patting gently on the sand. "It is a shame I must eliminate such great warriors. At least your vitality will make me stronger." He flexed his arms, and ran forward, his four legs running rapidly toward the Dragon Pokemon. He held an arm in the air, charging with red energy, throwing a punch at the defensive Kommo-o. They were absorbed in a flash of light, a deep-throated bellow coming from within.

Matheus blinked, amazed about what he saw. Between Buzzwole and the Kommo-o was a red wooden mask, in the shape of a bull, blocking Buzzwole's mighty fist. It split through the middle, the two halves lifting, revealing a black Pokemon, snorting.

Kommo grinned, stepping back. "Tapu Bulu has come. Prepare for your reckoning, Ultra Beast."

Buzzwole buzzed angrily, drawing his fist back. Tapu Bulu clapped his hooves together, grunting furiously at the alien invader. The Ultra Beast lowered his arm and stepped back, extending his red wings into the air. "Bulu Island's guardian has arrived. You are not who I strive to eliminate." His needle turned to the craft bobbing in the ocean, the tiny passenger hiding behind the sides. "The Cosmog shall die!" He sprung into the air, zooming toward the craft. Tapu Bulu roared, charging in front of the Ultra Beast, the two wrestling with each other in the air.

Matheus and Hoopa watched intently, astonished by the conflict at this island. The two brawlers continued to fight, throwing punches and pushing each other back and forth. They saw a green beam of light charge on Buzzwole's proboscis, the energy launching off toward Cosma's ship. It struck, splintering the boards and launching whatever was within it away.

Tapu Bulu roared, grabbing hold of the Ultra Beast, flinging him toward the wormhole. Buzzwole soared through the sky, landing within the hole. With an echoing screech, the wound in the sky sealed, the shaft of light gone.

A strange tugging sensation came upon the two spectators as they saw a blue mask surface from under the water, splitting horizontally to reveal a black Pokemon similar to Tapu Bulu. Their vision faded, and their souls were drawn back into the Tree of Life, reawakening their immortal frames.

Hoopa hovered around Matheus, hyperventilating with excitement. "Can you believe it! A real adventure! The danger, the romance, the-"

Matheus clamped a paw over his mouth, quickly halting the Trickster's spouting. He removed his paw, staring into the Orb. "While that is certainly something to start with, I don't want to be like every other writer in the region, if there are any. I want something to educate Pokemon too, you know?" He pondered, grabbing hold of a pencil. He pulled open a drawer, revealing a tiny book, dusty with age. He picked it up, blowing away the dust.

Hoopa hacked away the dust, wiping his lips. "How long has it been since you used that old thing?" The dust cleared away, revealing a plain book with golden letters. 'The Explorer's Guide to Equivos'.

Matheus opened the Guide, tracing his paw along the first page. "I will write the story of the Forgotten Isles, and at the beginning of every chapter of it, I will take an excerpt from my nephew's book, and stick it at the beginning. It will help readers understand what makes Equivos unique from other places of the world." He took a new piece of paper from the stack, copying the part of the Guide he wanted. "I'll also add some of my own comments, for personal tastes," he quipped.

Hoopa shrugged, shaking his head and closing his eyes. "A nice idea, but every good story needs a starring Pokemon. Shall it be us? I always wanted to be a protagonist!" he exclaimed, miming holding a sword in the air, swiping it back and forth, grinning as he did so.

Matheus furrowed his brow, shaking his head. He set a paw on the Orb, the inside now showing a magnificent fortress, set inside a large canyon. A flag extended from a turret of the wall surrounding, showing the seal of Arceus with a blue flame in the center.

"Everything that happens in Equivos eventually ends up in Lucario Guild. Let's see if we can find our protagonists there."
 
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Chapter 02: Schoolhouse Contentions

Page 12 of the Explorer's Guide: The Continents

There are three continents in Equivos: Serenita, Harmonia, and Deitae. These were renamed from their root words 63 AU by a vote in the Council of Guilds. All three host civilized Pokemon, while only Serenita and Harmonia yield Wild Pokemon. Mystery Dungeons can also only be found on Serenita and Harmonia.

Matheus' Notes:

Deitae was explicitly created by the Legends to house their landmarks, providing them a home away from the other regions that supposedly exist. I wouldn't recommend going to Tornadus' and Thundurus' homes however...it's literally going through a windstorm. Trust me, I know.

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Lucario Guild, a lasting landmark in the landscape of Serenita. Built into the edge of a massive canyon, it provides a home for many Pokemon, whether they be part of an Exploration Team or not. It leads from the Founder’s Canyon Mystery Dungeon, a peaceful place with few Pokemon and many items. At the exit of the dungeon were statues of the eight founders of Lucario Guild: Ferrick Zoroark, Aram Electivire, Nix Nuzleaf, Gaska Bibarel, Arianne Gardevoir, and Azure, Matheus and Laryon Lucario. All worked together to create the six buildings that compromised the premises, and the gorgeous courtyard that housed them.

The Wenstrel Café, named after a Quagsire dear to Azure and Laryon, gives food to all who live there, most of the staff friendly with the inhabitants. Arianne’s Medical Bay gave free medical treatment to whomever needed it, only charging service for injuries with unreasonable causes—such as jabbing a berry into your snout to see how it tastes like from there. The Azure Inn and Nursery provided lodging and daycare for the Pokemon within Lucario Guild, gladly supporting families within Exploration Teams. The Aram Fighting Dojo taught student explorers the necessities of their trade, as well as providing Exploration Team members the chance to hone their fighting skills. The Expedition Hall, the jewel of the Lucario Guild, houses the rooms for exploration teams, and posts the wishes of travelers that have suffered less-than-good tidings on their travelers. In the center of this hubbub was the Guildmaster’s Tower, where Guildmaster Lukas watched over his Guild, and ensured that all were treated fairly in his walls, while also housing the dangerous artifacts of the world within the lower depths. Lucario Guild, the pinnacle of the Equivos Region’s three remaining Guilds, is loved by all.

~~~~

In the beginning, there was only darkness. Darkness, and an Egg. From this egg came forth Arceus the Creator, and with his power, he created the elements of the world, and the hearts of our Mystery Dungeons. After this work, he created the first Legends and Myths, ordering them to use their own powers to organize the elements. Groudon, Kyogre and Rayquaza organized the land, sea and sky. Dialga, Palkia and Giratina stabilized the world's cosmic energies, bringing time, space, and the distortion world to be. From Xerneas came the first Pokemon, and with Azelf, Uxie and Mesprit, a select few gained willpower, memories, and emotions, creating the first civilized Pokemon. Reshiram and Zekrom gave Pokemon truth and ideals, to give them the will to grow strong. Yveltal came forth to bring an end to Pokemon when these ideals infringe on the good of the world.

300 years ago, three Pokemon clashed: Matheus Lucario, founder of our guilds and then Deity Elect; Laryon Lucario, the first Guildmaster of Lucario Guild and the Chosen of Arceus; Arthus Zoroark, the Usurper Pokemon, who strived to take the power of the Legends into his own claws, and take the life from this world. After a long and disastrous battle, Laryon stood victorious, and Arthus was taken into Yveltal's power, to die upon his awakening. Matheus was reawakened into the Legend he is now, and Laryon Lucario went on to found Lucario Guild.

Twenty years after that time, the legends Kyogre and Groudon fought, infuriated over the issue of land and sea. The continents Wayfare and Creation sunk into the sea, creating the Archipelago of Cretea, and the continents shifted. Laryon settled their dispute, and peace continued for many years.

In recent history, there have been myths and legends uncovered of a lost set of islands: The Forgotten Isles, or their proper name, the Tapu Islands. Past the Mist Wall surrounding our region, in the far south, these islands supposedly lie, with their four guardians, and two Legends long thought nonexistent: Solgaleo and Lunala, bringers of day and night. In the age of Laryon, an individual called Zacheus Incineroar supposedly came from the Tapu Islands...but he is our only link to such a place. All historians and explorers conclude that the Forgotten Isles are a myth, and nothing more.

A large stick jabbed at a map, pointing at the empty whiteness of the Mist Wall to the south. A Mienshao held the shaft, pointing it out to his students, all sitting behind wooden desks. He took back the stick, pointing it at the students. "Do not think they know everything however. I am sure that within time, the Forgotten Isles will be found once more."

This classroom lay within the Training Dojo of the Lucario Guild, temporarily converted for the purpose. The building was an upright triangle, the roof extending all the way to the ground. Along the walls were slots for the desks to be stacked, making a rectangular shape when finished. Several closets and cupboards sat against the walls, holding school supplies for Master Mienshao to use. The floor was marked with various remains of previously used moves, as the ceiling and walls did, through years of sparring sessions. Several training dummies were piled together, of varying sizes and shapes for practicing against different Pokemon. On the far wall, near where Mienshao stood, a chalkboard and Map hung, and just in front of it, Mienshao's desk, and in front of that were all the students...except one.

Mienshao looked at the single empty desk, in the center of the cluster. He looked to the sky, shaking his head. "Why does Sion have to be late?" He asked himself. Mienshao had a class of nine Pokemon: An Umbreon, a Luxio, a Hitmonchan, a Roselia, a Kirlia, A Geodude, a Snorunt, a Lucario, and a Zoroark. The Zoroark was not present.

The Lucario raised his paw, smirking slyly and looking to his peers. A small tuft of black fur poked from the normally smooth head fur, and his spikes gleamed more brightly in the light. His arms and legs were larger and more toned than most Lucarios, and he had at least one or two inches extra in height as well.

Master Mienshao sighed, pointing at the Lucario. "Yes Auren?"

Auren lowered his paw, peeved. "It's Ren, not Auren," he said, irritated.

Mienshao rolled his eyes, and said, "Alright, Ren, what do you have to say?"

Ren leaned back in his chair, the Luxio next to him smirking as well. "Me and my friend John were wondering why Sion has to come to class. I mean, with who he is, he doesn't belong here," Ren asked. The other students oohed, the sensitive subject touched upon.

Mienshao furrowed his brow, smacking his staff on his paw, the fur on them rippling. "What are you suggesting Ren? That we should kick him out because one of his grandfathers was Erik Zoroark, son of Arthus the Usurper? Erik did many honorable deeds." All eyes turned to Ren as he thought of his answer.

"Well, why should he come? He came here because his mom was running from something, and I think it might have something to do with that."

Mienshao tsked, looking to the sky once more. "Rumors are all they are. Sion is a perfectly respectable Pokemon, despite who he might be related to," Mienshao stated, giving Ren a warning look.

The Lucario hawed, leaning back in his desk, an arrogant grin on his face. "Just thought I'd point it out," he added, his fellow classmates in agreement. The door to the dojo flung open, a Zoroark haggardly panting, leaning against the door, his fur unkempt. He stood shorter than others of his species, his stature lower, and there seemed to be a small but noticeable shimmer in the air around him. In the fur next to his right ear was a short pencil, and his eyes were a bright blue, just like his ancestor's.

The students to see the latecomer, Ren standing up. "You came right on time, Illusion. We were just talking about your famous grandpa."

Sion held up his paw for a few moments, wanting time to catch his breath. "My mom needed berries for breakfast...I had to run down to get them...since she's sick right now...sorry Master..." Sion wheezed, leaning on the frame, ignoring Ren’s comment.

Mienshao leaned the stick on the wall, walking to the Zoroark. “I can understand you being late Sion. Corinne hasn’t been doing so well. Please, take a seat.” Sion nodded, shuffling to the empty desk, collapsing to his seat.

Ren furrowed his brow, pounding his paw on his desk. “Why isn’t he being marked late? He’s no better than any of us!” Sion shrunk in his seat, looking away from Ren.

Mienshao stared crossly at Ren, pointing his finger accusingly. “You should be glad I let you off the hook at times too, Ren. If your father wasn’t the Guildmaster I would mark you late every day,” Mienshao warned. Ren muttered to himself, glaring at Sion.

Mienshao sighed, returning to the map. “Now as I was saying class, while many consider the Tapu Islands to be a myth, some do still believe that it can be discovered…” Mienshao continued speaking, going into one of his daily lectures to his class.

Sion listened intently, leaning on the desk, enthralled by Mienshao’s descriptions. Ren continued to stare crossly at Sion, whispering to John Luxio. They nodded to each other, and Ren lifted the lid of the desk, taking a leaf of paper from within. He folded it up, then began to tear it into small squares, quietly as to not catch Mienshao’s attention. He passed the squares to John, who proceeded to set his paws on the desk, scrunching the squares into small paper balls.

John shoved the balls to the edge of his desk, allowing Ren to grab one and toss it in the air. Mienshao stood distracted, now explaining advanced dungeon illnesses such as Discord, which confuses Pokémon’s minds and prevents teamwork among them. Ren grinned, chucking the paper ball at Sion’s head.

It bounced off his head, landing on the floor. Surprised, he looked to Ren, who sat attentively, looking at Mienshao, no paper balls present. Sion shrugged, going back into a comfortable position. He felt another paper ball, and turned to Ren more quickly, suspicious. He saw the hint of a smile on Ren’s face, and a glint of amusement in his eyes.

Sion groaned quietly, looking back at Mienshao. He didn’t want to miss Master Mienshao’s explanation of dungeon exploration strategies, even with the annoyance of Ren. He heard the crumpling of paper to his right, and turned to it. A paper ball hit him square in the face, falling harmlessly to the ground.

Ren covered his mouth, restraining his laughter. The Geodude did the same, his eyes closing and his rocky body floating slightly above the chair. John buried his face into his paws, hiding a smile. Sion breathed in sharply, wishing for nothing more than peace. He turned back to Mienshao, bracing for another paper ball, the teacher absorbed in his work.

In the corner of his eye, Sion saw Ren packing tightly another ball, getting it ready to throw. The ball flew, flying straight toward Sion. Sion lifted his arm and swatted it away, the ball bouncing to Ren’s feet. Sion made a satisfied smirk, glad to have ended that. The thought of calling Ren out for it crossed his mind, but he knew that Ren would deny it, as he usually did.

Ren harrumphed quietly, scowling. He was determined to not be beaten so easily. He looked into his desk, seeing what he had to use. He saw a sizeable stack of paper, a bundle of pencils, several textbooks, and the small Explorer’s Guide that everyone had to have.

Sion looked over to Ren, seeing the Lucario folding another piece of paper. He quickly turned back to Mienshao, not wanting to be seen by Ren. He heard the whoosh of paper in the air, then felt the poke of a paper airplane on his side.

Sion swiftly turned back to Ren, seeing the Lucario twiddling his fingers, watching Mienshao. Sion groaned, looking to the floor and seeing the tiny airplane Ren had made. He picked it up gingerly and set it on the desk. He carefully unfolded it, seeing a message inside:

To: Illusion Zoroark, descendant of Arthus

Why are you here? You don’t belong here. A villain has no place with heroes, like me. You’ll never find anyone wanting to be in an exploration team with you. Not with who you have: nobody.

Ren Lucario

The paper shook in Sion’s claws, the Zoroark staring in astonishment. He received many notes and exclamations like this from Ren before, but this was different. The descendant of Laryon had pushed this too far.

Sion crumpled the letter and threw it to the ground and stood up, jabbing an accusing claw at Ren. “If you don’t want me here, then say it to my face!” Mienshao stopped midsentence, surprised that the normally quiet Sion would do such a thing. Ren was shocked as well, although in a different way; Sion had never reacted this way to his messages before.

Sion looked around the classroom, all the Pokemon staring intently at him. He stood erect, and took a deep breath. “I’ll go out myself. Have a good day…especially you Auren Lucario.” He faded from view, the illusory abilities of the Zoroark species in use. The class whispered to each other, starting new gossip about Sion.

Mienshao stood with his arms hanging uselessly, defeated, shaking his head slowly. He looked to Sion’s desk, seeing the ball of paper that caused his negative reaction. He uncrumpled it, and quickly reading the message, looked up, his eyes focused on Ren.

Ren quickly recovered, high-fiving John Luxio. “About time he left. He shouldn’t be here anyways.”

Mienshao appeared in front of them, furious. He slammed the letter on his desk, the written details all visible. “This is not your first infringement of the school rules Ren. For the past twelve years, Guildmaster Lukas has provided sanctuary for Sion and his mother, and Mistress Lopunny has been kind enough to give them lodging since then. Why can’t you give him the least degree of respect?”

Ren crossed his arms behind his head, closing his eyes arrogantly. “Why does it matter? I can act how I want. I’m going to be Guildmaster someday, and what you say won’t change things,” Ren argued.

Mienshao stepped back, feeling the soft breath of an invisible individual next to him. He marched back to his desk, sitting down. “We’ll continue our lesson, but I expect all of you to treat Sion better in the future. He has been a wonderful student despite your misgivings toward him…especially you Ren. I expect you to go talk with your father about this after class.”

Ren shrugged, looking to Johnson confidently. He whispered to his friend, “My dad doesn’t do anything when I talk with him. No groundings, no curfews, no nothing. This’ll be a piece of cake.” Class continued, the atmosphere less relaxed by Mienshao’s ever-attentive eye, now watching carefully to make sure that his law was followed. At the end of the day, the only Pokemon to be seen were Ren and Mienshao. Mienshao shook his finger at him, cross.

“I have talked to you about this too many times Ren. Just because Sion is related to the Usurper doesn’t mean he isn’t a good Pokemon,” Mienshao explained.

Ren waved him off, walking toward the door, where the setting sun could be seen in the sky. He grabbed onto the doorframe and said, “We never know. Arthus was good before he turned into the Usurper. Sion might be the same way,” he proceeded out, leaving Mienshao to wonder what would become of him.

Mienshao sat at his desk again, looking over his papers. Still looking down, he said, “You can come out now. Ren’s gone.”

Sion’s body reappeared, his face crestfallen and his body slack. Dejected, he said, “Maybe he’s right. I’ll probably not be better than Arthus in the end. We can never tell.”

Mienshao abruptly stood up from his desk, taking Sion’ claws. He looked up into his student’s eyes, seeing the sad but bright light of intelligence inside. He clasped his student’s claws tightly, shaking them. “You are the best in my class Sion. The only thing Ren has against you is his ability to beat up dummies, both literal and figurative. You’d so far make a better Guildmaster than he’d ever be.”

Sion straightened, his posture a little grander. “You really think so?”

Mienshao nodded. “Yes, I do. A teacher wouldn’t lie to his students,” Mienshao replied. He looked to the open door, the light of dusk stretching onto the floor. “You’d best go home to your mother. She is not too sick, is she?”

Sion shook his head, taking back his claws. “No, not at all. A sore throat and some weak limbs, that’s all. Still though, better safe than sorry,” Sion replied. He began going out the door, feeling better about himself. “I’ll see you tomorrow Master. What will we be learning?”

Mienshao smiled weakly, going back to his desk. “Combat training,” he replied.

Sion gulped, remembering the last time they had that subject. He was sore for the rest of the week.

Mienshao seemed to sense his unease, and held up his paw. “I’ll make sure he gets paired up with John. Those two might seem like good friends, but I think it’s a goon-to-boss sort of relationship. I hardly hear John say a thing next to him.” Sion chuckled, going out the door.

“See you tomorrow,” he finished, going outside, leaving Mienshao behind. The older Pokemon set his paws on the desk, his fur hanging over the edge.

“Given the right chance, he could be great. I wonder when that chance will come…"
 
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Chapter 03: After-Class Thoughts

Page 25 of the Explorer's Guide: The Guilds

There are three Guilds in Equivos: Rhyperior, Alakazam, and Lucario. Rhyperior Guild is based in Harmonia, specializing in missions in extreme conditions. Alakazam Guild primarily researches ancient lore and artifacts from the Legends and Myths, as well as other features of Equivos, from Deitae. Lucario Guild takes charge of any rescue missions needed in Serenita, where the population is most tightly concentrated.

Matheus' Notes:

Trust me, it is no fun going to Harmony Continent—I mean, Harmonia—for exploration or rescue purposes, at least for one such as me. I once had to go to the Talof Mountains, which I figure is short for ‘Tail-Off’, as in, freeze your tail off! Brr!

----------

Sion exited the dojo, ready to face the world. Green grass sprouted around the light stone pathways, flowers popping from the rich soil. The path encircled the tower, small offshoots extending to another four buildings. Surrounding this trail was the lawn, where Pokemon sat together and discussed, played, and had an enjoyable time.

The Master’s Tower rose in front of Sion, the dark stone worn with age. It was mostly featureless along the height of structure, changing at the top to a cylinder-shaped building on top. It had a large dome over it as a roof, and there was a series of windows encircling the stone wall. At the base of the tower there was a small set of stairs leading up to a large oaken door, with a large round doorknob set in the side. From the ground, one couldn't see anything except the dark figure within: Guildmaster Lukas, watching over the Guild.

Sion began to walk along the path, following it to the right. The vast lawn surrounding it boasted a variety of Pokemon; some were exploration teams discussing their next plan, others were parents teaching their children how to behave. Some were just lying on the grass enjoying the sky above.

A Minun and Plusle squeal with delight, running in Sion’s direction. They looked up, quickly stopping their fun, their faces blank. Sion turned away, wanting to avoid them. They whispered to each other, just within Sion's range of hearing.

"Why does Lukas let him stay?"

"No idea. Isn't he related to Arthus?"

"He is. That's why I asked."

Sion winced, walking past them, increasing his speed. He saw a pair of Wigglytuff with their child Igglybuff, watching them float into the air. They snatched them from the sky and drew them close as Sion drew near, looking at him with fearful eyes. Sion continued, growing closer to a building he so wished to be a part of: The Expedition Hall.

To his right, a tall, white wooden building stood, a flag pole near its entrance showing the symbol of the Lucario Guild. It was three stories high, the first floor being the tallest. Exploration Teams constantly moved in and out of the structure, bringing completed and uncompleted requests for rescue with them. The first floor was devoted to the main gathering hall and a select few Exploration Teams; the second and third floors were reserved for team housing. Only teams and a select few other individuals were allowed inside.

Sion stopped for a moment, admiring the hall. He wanted to go inside someday, part of a team with his friends, exploring dungeons day-in and day-out. It was all he wanted, at least right now.

A Simisage looked over in his direction suspiciously, talking to his companion Simisear and Simipour. Sion quickly continued walking down the path, averting his eyes, knowing that he couldn't make an exploration team without Pokemon who wanted to be with him.

He sighed as he reached a smaller wooden building with balconies and little chimneys sprouting up top, couples and children all around it. It was coated in a rich blue paint, after its name, the Azure Inn and Nursery. Windows lined the sides of it, and to the right was a playground for the children of the members of Exploration Teams out doing their work. The porch was riddled with chairs, available for anyone to sit on, and the front entry was decorated with blue flowers, further emphasizing the blue colors of the inn.

Sion entered the inn, pushing past Pokemon who wanted to deposit their children and get going on their expeditions. He received angry comments as stepped on tails and toes, being as careful as he could despite this. Some mothers grabbed up their children, and hugged them tight as Sion passed by, whispering to them.

Past the entrance was a parlor of sorts, where a Lopunny sat behind a counter, a door leading to the outside behind her. To the left was a stairwell, and seats lined the edges of the entry. Pokemon of all sorts were packed inside, ranging from Leafeon to Nidoqueen, all having a question involving their daycare or their room in the inn.

"Be careful around him kids; he has Arthus as an ancestor," one Azumarill said to her Azurill. Sion sheepishly stepped away, going up the stairs of the tiny passageway. The cacophony of the room below turned into a peaceful quietness as he entered, seeing no Pokemon in the hallway. Doors no more than ten feet apart lined the walls, the stairwell he was in and another one to his right being in the center. Candles sat on sconces, as there were no windows in this part of the inn to allow light.

He padded on the planks, his claws clattering on the finish. He stepped toward a door with a small sign next to it, labelled, 'Zoroark Family'. He looked down, seeing yet another angry note to him and his mother, Corinne Zoroark. He opened it up, his eyes moving back and forth as he read.

Your kind don't belong here! Lucario Guild has a proud history of protecting those in need, but you don't need any sort of help! Twelve years of open doors, and you've done nothing for us! Get out!

Sion was tempted to crumple it up, beginning to scrunch it together, but stopped as he remembered what happened in school. He sighed, folding it back up, reaching for the door knob. He grabbed it, opening the door.

He poked his head in, seeing a familiar sight. The window on the far wall emitted pale orange light, reminiscent of the time of day. A small desk with a picture frame was to the right, with a bed just behind it, newly made and the covers smooth. Next to it was a trash bin, full of other notes like the one he received today. On the left side of the room was a closet, open and with a light inside. Next to the door was another bed, parallel to the one on the right, only with the covers thrown over it rather than smoothed down. All the furniture had a secondhand feel to it, feeling new but at the same time used.

A Zoroark came out of the closet, a bundle of berries in her paws. She was thin, thinner than most Zoroarks, and had several strands of gray in her headfur. On her left wrist was a green bracelet, with several beads woven within.

She looked at Sion happily, setting the berries on the desk. "Welcome home, Illusion!" She hugged her son, who hugged her back, somewhat hesitantly but welcoming at the same time.

Sion let his arms fall, stepping back. He softly smiled. "How are you feeling? You're not still sick, are you?"

Corinne shook her head, returning to the closet and pulling sheets away from the shelves. "I'm feeling better than I did this morning; those Pecha berries really helped. The ones we grow around here just don't have the same effect as the ones that come from the Dungeons," she replied, a jug of water in her paws.

Sion sat on the messy bed, a far more favorable seat than the hard wooden chair at the dojo. "I was a bit late to class, but I was fine...mostly," Sion replied, trailing off at the end.

Corinne set the jug on the desk next to the berries, looking to Sion curiously. She reentered the closet. "That Auren didn't bully you again, did he?"

Sion was tempted to say otherwise.

"Yeah...yeah he did. Just like every day," Sion replied, looking to the floor, attempting a smile, riffling the note in his claws.

Corinne came out of the closet again, a set of plates and cups in her paws. She set them on the table, then sat down next to her son, setting her claw on his shoulder. She looked down at the note, then to Sion's face. "You know he just says those things to get to you Illusion. They aren't true.” Sion sighed, handing the paper to her. She took it and opened it up, reading the contents. She folded it back up, looking to the door. Setting it aside, she said, "What they say doesn't matter either. We can hardly find work thanks to the prejudice around this place." She groaned, shaking her head, holding it with her paw. "Thank goodness Molly, Victor and Lukas support us being here."

Sion stood up, opening the window. He looked outside, seeing Ren strutting toward the door to the Tower, waving to those he crossed. He groaned, pointing outside, "He makes my life miserable! Every single day, he reminds me that I have the worst Pokemon in the world as my ancestor, and that I'll end up just like him!"

Corrine stood up, paws on hips. "That's enough Illusion! Blood does not determine who you are! Look at Arthus' son, Erik; he was a good and honorable Pokemon while he lived," She exclaimed.

Sion took the portrait from the desk, holding it out toward his mother. It showed a large Zoroark with the same eyes as his, holding a large beige bag and grinning. He stood on top of a hill, where in the background a mountain towered into the air. He pointed at the picture and said, "Was Dad like Erik, or was he more like Arthus?"

Corinne's face turned from irritation to shame, the Zoroark turning away. She held her paws together, looking at the bracelet on her wrist. "You know the answer to that."

Sion set the frame back on the desk, shaking the jug and berries. He turned to the door, holding his head, grimacing. To himself, he thought of one thing: "Am I going to be like my ancestor, like everyone says? If so, why should I be here?”

~~~~

Outside the Master's Tower, Ren looked to the sky confidently. He took a deep breath, then exhaled slowly, taking the golden doorknob that glittered in the setting sun. "Time for the same old routine," he said to himself, pulling open the door and entering the home of Lukas Lucario. From the window above, a cloaked figure turned away, his tail still and his paws crossed behind his back.

The door closed behind Ren as he saw the familiar entryway of the tower. A stairwell spiraled overhead, crawling along the wall toward the top floor and the floor below, the wooden planks giving way to a hole to Ren's right. A set of three chairs sat underneath the stairs, with a two side tables next to them to the left and right, and a sign that said, 'Do Not Enter' hung in front of the lower stairwell.

A plume of dust erupted from the basement, and a Pokemon hacked out the particles as he made his way up the stairs. Wiping his eyes, a Heliolisk coughed, blinking rapidly as he saw Ren. On his left arm was a white armband with the symbol of the Lucario Guild; The Arc of Arceus with a blue flame in the center. Around his neck was a silver pendant with the same design, polished with great effort, and in his left hand was a notebook, with a pencil attached to it by a string.

The Heliolisk gave one final cough, wiping off his shoulders. He looked at Ren with studying eyes and said with contempt, "You're late, as usual. I'm sure your father would have had you work down here with me as I catalogued the storage room. I hope you’re happy."

Ren moved to the stairs and shrugged, smiling confidently. "Sorry Harry, I have a busy life, Being the future Guildmaster and all that," Ren replied.

Harry snorted, making a note in his book. He tutted to himself, saying, "I hope someone else is Assistant Guildmaster when old Lukas goes."

Ren stepped up the stairs with ease, confident with what future he thought lay ahead. To his right were portraits of other Lucario, a tradition to keep the Lucario Guild name alive. All seven Guildmasters succeeding Laryon were descended from the hero of Equivos, the current Guildmaster being one of the better favored ones: Lukas Lucario.

At the top of the stairs was a round room, with windows embedded all around the wall. A bed sat farthest from the wall, a rounded table behind it to make it sit smoothly with the wall. To the right was a large desk with papers scattered on top of it, a table like the one next to the bed being present behind the desk, and a large cushioned chair sat away from it. To the left was a closet, the left door partially open, revealing a hook on the right side and the slight glimmer of Orbs within. A light fixture hung from the ceiling, the little lantern, providing enough light to illuminate the entire room when needed. Painted on the ceiling was the Arc of Arceus, the wooden roof coming from the age of Laryon as everything else had. A small round table stood in the center, and seven blue-cushioned chairs surrounded it.

Ren stopped at the top, grinning. Standing in between the bed and desk was a brown cloaked figure wearing a large brown hat, his black paws clasped behind his back. His blue ears popped through it, his cobalt tail swayed back and forth, patiently. He turned around, revealing a golden pendant of intricate design around his neck, the Arc visible within it. The Lucario had a worn and tired look, but one could feel an aura of power and respect around the Guildmaster.

The Lucario grunted, looking at Ren, irritated. "You're late. What was so important for you to be tardy for a meeting with your father?"

Ren took one of the chairs from the center and sat in it, leaning backward and setting his legs on the table. "You're sometimes late to things...why is it such a big deal if I am?" Ren asked, looking out the window.

Lukas looked to the sky, muttering to himself. He took a chair from the table, sitting in it upright, his paws sitting on top of the table. "This isn't sometimes, it's all the time. You are always late, you are disrespectful to everyone you meet, and you hold little care for the finer points of exploration," Lukas explained, staring at his son disapprovingly.

Ren sat up, his smile fading and being replaced with indignation. He replied, pounding the table "I am the best in fighting class Dad, and I love what I do there! I'd hardly call that 'little care'!"

Lukas sighed, looking down at the pendant around his neck. "Knowing how to drive off outlaws and wild Pokemon is important, but surviving natural dangers is another thing entirely," Lukas said. He looked at Ren once more, grabbing his son's paw. "When you go out there, I want to know that you can survive and see me again."

Ren pulled his paw away, looking to the floor. "I'll do just fine, school or not. I'm a Guildmaster, right?" Ren asked. Lukas remained silent, tracing the pendant's design. He stood up, looking out the window once more. Ren looked at him curiously, and asked, "I'll be a Guildmaster, right?" Lukas let the pendant drop, the metal clinking against his chest.

"The Guildmaster's Seal is to be entrusted with someone who can bring the Guild to new heights, a light to the world. They need to be trustworthy, kind, obedient, and wise. Those are the words my father told me, and his father before him, and so on, all the way until Laryon Lucario, who told his own son the same," Lukas said, strained. He turned back to Ren, his face stern and solemn, while Ren's turned into one of fear. "I cannot allow one such as you to become Guildmaster." Ren sat in the chair, openmouthed. Lukas continued to look at him harshly, his decision unchanging.

After a moment, Ren's features creased, glaring at Lukas angrily. He came to his feet abruptly, the chair knocking over. He jabbed a finger at Lukas and said, "It's because of that Zoroark Sion, isn't it! You think I should treat him like everybody else, all because you say so! He is not like everyone else!" He lowered his arm, his father's face as stern as ever. Ren inhaled sharply, turning to the stairs. "I'll show you that I'm a Guildmaster. I'll prove you wrong." He descended the stairs, shoving aside Harold Heliolisk as he came up with a stack of books. Harold stepped side-to-side, keeping the towering stack balanced, the front door slamming behind him.

Lukas slapped his forehead, shaking his head. "He'll never be a worthy successor. The Guild would be ruined if I let him take control."

Harold set the books on the table, the woodwork creaking under the weight. Picking the chair up from the floor, Harold said, "Well, you did what a good father should. If you don't see him as what is needed for a Guildmaster, why would let him?"

Lukas nodded, sitting on the bed, head in paws.

~~~~

On the distant shores, broken planks of wood lay scattered on a beach. The sky was clear of clouds, with hardly a gust of wind. The tide brushed softly against the sand, pushing in debris and pulling out nothing. Krabby scuttled on the beach, picking through the driftwood for good bits to eat.

One such Krabby lifted what remained of a sail, hearing a distinct moan. It fizzed, dropping the cloth and sidestepping away. The cloth shifted, a roundish shape crawling out from underneath. The Krabby scattered, knowing that things that move tend to want to hurt them.

A purple and blue blob crawled out, two smaller globes on her head pushing her forward. She floated into the air, her little black face yawning. She opened her beady yellow eyes, and looked around, seeing where she was. She hovered in awe, seeing a coastline that extended far beyond her sight, a new vision to behold.

“What a wondrous view!” she cried. She twirled in the air, cheering. “I actually made it! The continents exist!” She pondered, the yellow ring around her body glinting in the setting sun. She hopped in the air, shrugging as best she could.

“Might as well find someone to help me. There’s sure to be a nice Pokemon around here somewhere,” she stated. She traveled up toward the grass above, the Krabby looking curiously at the strange Pokemon. In the sea, a black maiden floated on the waves, her blue shell gently rocking as she held her arms to the sky and thanked Arceus for this blessing.
 
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Chapter 04: Unexpected Conflicts

Page 27 of the Explorer's Guide: Lucario Guild

Lucario Guild is the oldest of the three Guilds, being founded 6 AU by Laryon Lucario. It is based on the Old Lucario Guild, the first of the former six Guilds of Equivos formed by Matheus Lucario. Lucario Guild specializes in rescue work and discovery missions, similar to Rhyperior Guild in that sense. Eight statues within the connected Mystery Dungeon's exit depict the seven Pokemon who built it and the one who inspired it, Matheus Lucario.

Matheus' Notes:

This new Guild was formed before I was reborn as a Legend, so I don't know much about its construction. I will say, however, they did a good job on my statue. It looks regal, lifelike, and--hey, is my nose really that big?

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Sion's eyes fluttered open, the Zoroark sprawled over his bed. The room was illuminated with yellow light, the rays from the morning sun brightening what it touched. Lucario Guild began to stir, refreshed for a new day of exploration and work. Swablu from the Founder's Canyon called through the morning air, waking all who heard their warbles.

Sion rubbed his face, then looked to his left, seeing Corinne sleeping peacefully. He sat up, smacking his lips, then set his feet on the floor, slowly standing up. He stood up straight, leaning back to stretch, then shuffled to the closet, opening the door.

Within were what belonging they had in their stay here. A basket of berries with a set of messy dishes sat on a shelf, next to some sheets and blankets. An unlit lantern hung overhead, the light of the room making the dull surface shine slightly. Two bags were on the center shelf, and a bundle of wands labelled as 'Petrify' sat next to them. Outside of these few things, the closet loomed with dust and cobwebs, seen with little need to clean.

Sion yawned once more, taking a handful of random berries from the basket. He popped a Cheri Berry in his mouth, the tangy flavor spreading in his mouth. He exited the closet, closing the door, and opened the door to the hallway. He looked back to his mother, seeing her stir, and waved to her.

"I'll see you later," he said, shutting the door behind him. He walked down the hallway to the stairs, eating a sweet Wacan Berry on his way. He stepped down the stairs, hearing the gentle breathing of a Pokemon down below.

Behind the desk was a Lopunny, arms crossed and head on top of them, her ears acting as pillows. She wore a blue apron, emblazoned with the Arc so prevalent in Lucario Guild, patterned with dirt and various other stains. Despite the apron's messiness, her fur was immaculately clean, combed and scrubbed thoroughly.

Sion reached the edge of the stairs, jumping off the last step. The vibrations shook the desk, causing her head to slip from its comfortable position, ending up with her falling to the floor.

Thunk!

The Lopunny stood up, clutching her forehead wincing. "Ow!" She straightened up, and with a barely audible crack, grabbed her back. She leaned forward, looking behind her. "Ow..." She slumped against the desk, and sighed. "That's the last time I sleep at my station," she muttered. She looked forward, seeing a scruffy Zoroark with a bundle of berries in is claws, watching her curiously. The Lopunny smiled, standing up properly and walking around the desk.

"Good morning Sion! How did you sleep?" she asked, hugging him. Sion, carefully holding out the berries as to not get them crushed, returned the hug. They let go of each other, and Sion grabbed another berry, holding it gingerly between his claws.

He said while eating it, "It was great Molly; you always make the beds right." He ignored the fact that his bed had the covers thrown everywhere last night, as it usually ended up when he slept at night.

Molly wiped her brow, going back to her desk. "Thank goodness. I thought I forgot to do your room." She returned to the desk, rubbing her back. "It's hard being an innkeeper and a daycare worker. Everyone's wanting me everywhere at once!" She sighed, propping her head on top of the desk. "I wish that Doug could help me out around here..." A door to the right swung open, a big Diggersby stomping out of it then leaning on the doorframe, the wood creaking under his weight. He looked grumpily at Molly, squinting his eyes, adjusting to the sudden brightness of the room.

With a gruff voice Doug said, "I have a hard enough time going out of the guild and finding good stuff to sell to ole Kecleon. The inn's your work, not mine." Sion steadily stepped back, keeping the berries behind his back.

Doug sniffed the air, perking up. His barrel-like stomach grumbled, the Diggersby rubbing it hungrily. He looked to the entrance, seeing nothing, yet smelling something sweet in that direction.

He looked at Molly and pointed at the door, saying, "Did you get some berries from the patch just for me?" Molly looked toward the door, seeing a slight shimmer in the air, and berries floating within it.

She looked back at Doug, biting her lip. "Uh..." she replied, looking away from the berries. Doug smiled laxly, lumbering toward the berries, still groggy from last night's rest.

He grasped at the berries, not hearing the increased breathing of the hidden Zoroark. The berries lifted in the air, going above his reach. Doug growled, throwing his right ear toward the berries, punching Sion's paw. He cried out, dropping the berries. Doug grinned, scooping the berries from the floor with his hand, eating all of them at once.

He patted his belly, returning to the door he came from. "Thanks very much for the meal. I loved the sound they made when I grabbed them." He opened the door and entered the room once more, slamming the ocean-blue door.

Sion reappeared, grasping his paw. Molly rushed over to him, inspecting his paw. "He didn't hurt you too badly did he?"

Sion shook his head, taking back his limb. He rubbed it, saying, "No, but he took my breakfast. I want to leave the rest of the berries for mom, so I guess I'll have to go to the cafe." He shuddered, remembering the last time he entered.

Molly whistled softly, looking away. She went back behind her desk, stooping down and digging through the underside, and said, "I need to grab a bite too. I'll come with you." She came out with a bag over her shoulder, stepping around the desk and drawing close to Sion. They exited the inn, walking along the path toward the Wenstrel Cafe.

They talked with each other, trading banter as they strolled. Few Pokemon were out from their beds, the few being berry workers and early bird explorers. There were none to distract Sion with their worries, so he could freely express himself:

"Has Doug always been like that?"

"He was better when I married him. He's so tired from going abroad that he can hardly do anything but sleep when he returns."

"It'd be nice if he didn't want me out of the inn."

"You know how strongly he feels about the Guild. In his mind, all Zoroarks are bad. There's only so much you can do for public opinion."

"Well, he's not far off. There's few Zoroarks in Equivos, and they tend to be Outlaws, using their illusions to get the better of people. It only got worse with Arthus."

"Don't let that thing bother you too much. Everyone here will eventually see how good of Pokemon you are. I see that, Victor sees that, even Lukas sees that!"

"Master Mienshao does what he can, especially with...certain Pokemon."

"You mean Ren, don't you?"

"...yeah. He's just downright cruel at times. Every day he does something to hurt me, and it always focuses around how I shouldn't be here because I'm descended from Arthus."

"Ren's just a bully. I dread the day he becomes Guildmaster, and when that day comes, I'm going to move out, whether Doug likes it or not."

"I feel like I want to move out right now. It's been nice here in the Guild, but with him around, it makes it difficult to want anything more than to get away."

"Don't worry about what he or anyone else has to say about you. You are a good and honest Pokemon, and I am glad to see that you aren't the stereotypical Zoroark."

"...thanks."

Just ahead of them was an oval-shaped building, extending lengthwise on the path. Two heavy wooden doors were propped open, the delicious aromas wafting out from the kitchen within. The walls were painted a pale cyan, in commemoration of the ancient Chef Wenstrel Quagsire, a dear friend of Laryon Lucario in his time, the roof covered with dark purple tiles. The sign overhead showed the face of a Quagsire, with the words "The Wenstrel Cafe: In Memoriam" Large windows were embedded into the walls, letting the morning sun shine into the interior.

Molly set a paw on Sion's, looking up to him. "You know I can just get you some food. You wouldn't have to deal with Simeon."

Sion looked down, smiling halfheartedly. "I'll be fine. I have to face him at some point, right?" He replied. He entered the doorway, Molly crossing her fingers that all would go well.

Inside, the walls were painted a pale purple, the stonework below them painted with cyan paint. In the center of the floor, the ever-noticeable Seal of Arceus painted in a bold yellow. Small oval tables littered the floor, spotlessly clean for the breakfast rush, the chairs surrounding the smooth surfaces. A large wall bisected the oval lengthwise, with a long rectangular hole through it, showing the ever-busy cooks preparing today’s meal: Oran Crepes with Moomoo Cream. No other Pokemon stood inside, the other Guild Pokemon still rousing themselves from sleep.

Sion set a paw over the threshold, and a wobbly pink and white figure stopped. He turned around, staring warily at Sion. The Slurpuff wore an oversized chef’s hat atop his head, and a messily clean apron around his wide chest. He stood on top of a stepstool, making himself the same height as the other kitchen workers, preparing the crepe filling for the meal.

He grunted, leaving his work and stepping down the ladder, budging through the other workers’ way and stepping through the door, his arms on his hips. In a high and reedy voice, he exclaimed, “I thought I told you that you weren’t welcome here!” Sion grinned weakly and waved hello.

Molly entered, grabbing hold of Sion’s arm. “Simeon, you know he’s sorry for dumping your cake batter over you. Can’t you please let him have breakfast?” She sniffed the air, smiling. “Mm, smells like your famous crepes!”

Simeon Slurpuff blushed slightly at the mention of his cooking. “Filled with Oran berry filling! Delicious!” He sighed, looking dreamily into the air. He shook his head, pointing at Sion. “Anyway, it’s not just the whole cake incidence—even if I really missed baking that cake—it’s also because I’m not sure how much I can trust you,” Simeon stated.

Sion groaned, rubbing his temples at the same response he’s heard for years. “I’ve lived here for years, helping out where I can, and you still don’t know how much you trust me?” Sion exclaimed.

Simeon held up his arms defensively, eyes widened and his little pink tongue tucked back into his mouth. “Can’t be too careful in today’s day and age you know!” He replied. He closed his eyes, drooping forward slightly, leaning his head on his arms, thinking. He looked back at Sion and sighed, saying, “Alright, I’ll give you another chance. I’m warning you though:” He leered cautiously at Sion, saying, “If you make one wrong move, I’ll kick you out of here faster than you can say ‘cupcake’! The Guildmaster might like you hanging around, but I don’t, and this is my café, so I make the rules! Understood?”

Sion nodded, inwardly groaning as to not offend his unwilling host. Slurpuff nodded agreeably, waddling back into the kitchen, shoving past his co-workers and going back on top of his stepladder, scraping the bottom of his pan and sampling his Oran handiwork.

Molly and Sion took their seats, the latter rubbing her back afterward. “I need a break from the daycare, or I’ll go crazy! I can hardly touch the Nido-Lord Team’s kids because of their spines, and they’re the ones that cause the most trouble!” She shuddered, looking behind her. “And there’s seven of them.” Sion nodded, taking a napkin from the wooden holder, unfolding it and laying I across his lap.

He replied, “Those little terrors are nothing compared to what Ren does to me. One day he took some jam from a sandwich he brought from lunch and slathered it over my headfur!” Sion rubbed his long bundle of fur, feeling it stick to his fingers. “It was over a week ago, and I can still feel it!” He took back his claw, sniffing it. “Even worse, it was Pecha berry; I hate Pecha!”

Molly grimaced, rubbing her ear’s luxuriously soft fur. “I’m glad my husband changed his prankster ways when we began to date; he liked doing the same thing to me when we were younger. The best way to get rid of it is to—” She cut herself short, mouth agape and eyes widening. She tapped on Sion’s paw, pointing at the Pokemon who just came through the doors. Sion looked in that direction, his face falling.

Stomping angrily through the door was Ren Lucario, his brow furrowed and his jaw clenched, paws up in the air. His tail hovered closer to the ground as he approached his seat, which happened to be at the opposite corner of the room. He scooted the chair back, purposely making it screech across the wood. He sat down in it, pulling it up, making the screech one more, and sat with his arms crossed, looking down at the table.

Sion quickly turned invisible, not wanting to be spotted by the infuriated Lucario. He came close to Molly, he stood as still as possible as to not gather his attention. “Just stay still, and don’t say a thing. I haven’t seen him in a mood like this since I put his name in the dancing competition.” Molly looked in his direction with a bewildered look on her face. Sion quickly added, “Johnson wanted me to do it.”

Ren looked around, seeing only Molly. He looked in the kitchen’s direction, groaning. Grumpily he exclaimed, “When will breakfast be ready? I’m starving!”

A Drowzee looked over the counter, looking over to the son of Lukas. “Hold your Ponyta there, we’ve got another ten minutes before the crepes are done! We can’t rush everything for the future Guildmaster,” the Drowzee replied, stepping away and taking a plate from a fellow Lombre.

Ren growled, looking in Molly’s direction. “Future Guildmaster…yeah right. I know I’ll be a good one, even if Dad doesn’t think so. I’m honorable. I’m kind. I’ve got friends.” He looked at Molly, his angered face unchanging. “What do you think?” Molly remained silent, unsure of what the right answer would be.

Ren growled again, standing up swiftly and marching toward the Lopunny, his chair’s back falling to the ground. “Well, what do you think!” he exclaimed louder.

Molly began to stand up, edging away from Ren. Stuttering, she said, “I-I think y-you’re a good Pokemon, a-and that you’d make a great G-Guildmaster.”

Ren fumed, slamming his paw against the table. “Then why am I not good enough!” he asked, his voice echoing into the kitchen. Simeon perked up, ladling Oran filling into wraps, concerned. He looked out into the cafeteria, seeing Ren approaching Molly with a stern expression, the Lopunny fearful and holding her paws out.

Simeon jumped off his ladder and rushed out of the kitchen, his belly scraping against the floor. He jabbed his arm at Ren and exclaimed, “Oi you! Get out of here or shape up! We treat the ladies respectfully here!”

Ren turned to him, quivering. With restraint, he replied, “I was just asking her a question…like a friend.”

Simeon set his arms on his hips again, studying him crossly. “Ha, sure. You’ve been such a great friend that you had to have your daddy send you to the Luminous Cavern to evolve,” Simeon stated. Molly ran away from Ren and out the door as he clenched his paws, gritting his teeth and trembling in anger.

He ran forward, Simeon’s grin of insult turning into a grimace of fear. Ren raised his paw into the air, the limb glowing with orange energy. Ren exhaled inhaled sharply, and exhaled quickly, then roaring, “You’ll regret saying that!” He threw a punch downward, radiating waves of orange energy.

Ren got thrown backward, the Power-Up Punch dissipating into a violet scratch in the air, the owner reappearing in front of Simeon. Ren sat up on the ground, growling.

“You’re always there, Illusion, hiding with your vicious tricks!” Ren sneered, Sion standing protectively in front of Simeon. The tubby Slurpuff quickly dove over the counter, pulling a rope away from its anchor next to the wall, a metal sheet crashed down, covering the hole between the kitchen and the café.

“We got a mad Lucario in there, and it ain’t pretty!” his voice exclaimed, the bolts for the doors clicking.

Sion got into a defensive position, keeping his legs and arms apart. Ren raise his fist, glowing with orange energy once more. He lunged for Sion, the Zoroark jumping to the right. Ren punched the wall instead, leaving a deep indentation within. He pulled his arm away, running after Sion, a dark-blue energy enveloping his limbs.

Sion quickly turned invisible, the dark-blue energy in Ren’s hands forming into an elongated bone. Ren halted, listening for the fleeing Zoroark. He heard the creak of wood, and jumped into the air, slamming a table below with his bone. It cracked and splintered, splitting in half under the force. He heard a cry, saw Sion reappear on the ground, sprawled out.

Ren roared, jumping into the air once more. A purple energy reverberated around Sion, and he dashed out of the way, leaving Ren to bury his bone deep into the floor. Sion seemed to run faster than before, leaving light-purple streaks behind. Ren let go of the bone, the weapon dissipating into the same dark-blue energy. He thrust his paw out, his entire body glowing red, tiny incarnations of swords floating overhead.

Sion ran toward the door, breathing rapidly. Ren clapped his paws together, the clinking of metal coming from them. He opened his paws, keeping his wrists together, and a grey-white beam of light shot out, striking Sion on his side. He gasped in pain, falling to the floor, just making it outside.

Ren stepped forward, moving around the pieces of wooden debris. He stood over Sion, grabbing him by his headfur. He turned him around looking directly into his foes eyes. “You’ll never be as good as I am. I am related to Laryon, and you to Arthus. Who was the winner in that story?” With his other paw, he charged it with orange-energy once more, rearing it back, preparing for another strike. Sion cringed, expecting the worst.

Behind Ren, a burst of electricity surrounded him, the Lucario’s face turning from hate to fear. He dropped Sion, leaving him to collapse to the ground, breathing rapidly. Ren dropped to the ground as well, his limbs frozen and his face set. Behind him a Heliolisk, his frilled neck extended. Next to him was Molly Lopunny, clutching her bag and her paw to her cheek as she saw Sion and Ren. Behind both was a tall figure, wearing a brown cloak and hat, the Guildmaster’s Seal around his neck.

The Heliolisk lowered his frill, looking down at Ren sadly. The brown-cloaked Lucario pushed through, kneeling and taking off his hat, revealing himself to be Guildmaster Lukas. He sighed, studying both Ren and Sion with grief.

“Harold, send them both to the Medical Bay, then after they are healed send them to me. Punishment is in order.”
 
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Chapter 05: Detention and Introduction

Page 32 of the Explorer's Guide: The Founders

The statues in the exit of the Founders' Canyon depict the Pokemon who helped create the Lucario Guild and its facilities, acting as their architects. Gaska Bibarel created the Wenstrel Cafe, Ferrick Zoroark and Azure Lucario the Azure Inn, Aram Electivire the Fighting Dojo, Arianne Gardevoir the Medical Bay and Berry Patch, and Nix Nuzleaf and Laryon Lucario the Master's Tower. Matheus Lucario provided the original grounds and inspiration for the Guild.

Matheus' Notes:

I knew most of the Founders well, but there was one or two I hardly knew, like Gaska Bibarel. I'm not entirely sure what he has to do with anything, but at least he made some nice food! Plus, he, uh...sort of kept the annoying Chimecho in check. Maybe that was why he was kept there...

----------

Sion lay on a bed covered with a white sheet, looking at Ren, who glared back. They lay in a white stone room, pleasantly cool to the touch everywhere you stepped. Beds sat to the left and right, eight each lining the two walls. To the far right was the exit, revealing the waiting room to the Medical Bay. On the other side, a large counter with a variety of herbs, berries, and other medical essentials crowded the wall. Only Ren and Sion lay inside the main bay, most of the injuries usually able to be solved at the front desk, lessening the need for such a room.

Sion groaned, rubbing his side. Ren's Flash Cannon left a stinging sensation in the area, the feeling of the strike of a blade still present. He had never felt the move before, or any other move for that matter. Victor Mienshao's class taught battle techniques that all Pokemon could use, so that excluded special moves.

Ren's frozen expression had one of fear, but his eyes were full of contempt for Sion. He moved his jaw slightly, wanting to speak. He could only let out a low moan, Harold's Thunder Wave making him almost completely immobile.

An Audino came in from the room, curtsying. "Sorry for the wait; most of the nurses are over at the Cafe getting some breakfast, and I had to help a baby Emolga get her arm set in a cast. She tried to fly a bit too early," she explained. Sion shook his head, waving his paw in the air dismissively.

"I'm fine. Just got grazed by a Flash Cannon." Sion replied. Ren tried to speak, letting out a low moan. The Audino put a hand to her cheek, studying the frozen Lucario.

"Few Pokemon in the Guild know Flash Cannon. Did he do that?" She pointed at Ren, then began to walk to the counter, leaving Ren to protest as best he could.

Sion wanted to laugh in reply, but he figured it might not be the best response. He instead smiled weakly and said, "Yeah...he got paralyzed by Harry after he did."

The Audino nodded, taking an Oran berry from one of the many glass jars filled with berries on the counter. "Harry's Thunder Wave is probably the strongest there is in the Guild." She noted. She grabbed a rag, soaking it in a bowl of clear liquid. She brought it to Sion with the berry, offering the fruit to him. He took it, and she said, "Just eat that while I soothe it. You're lucky the Cannon didn't make a direct hit." Sion did as she asked, chewing the berry, sighing with relief as the Audino rubbed the rag on the afflicted area.

She continued for a minute or so, then stepped back, nodding. "You should be all better now. I must ask that you stay here until Harry is back; Guildmaster's orders you know." She then returned to the glass jars, plucking a bright red berry from one of them. She walked over to Ren, gently opening his mouth. She set the berry inside, then closed his mouth, helping him chew. After a moment, he began on his own accord, lifting his arms and legs up from the bed.

The Audino beamed, curtsying once more. "I'm glad to see that you were only paralyzed." Ren swallowed, feeling the tart juice of the Cheri Berry flow down his throat, freeing his body.

He sat upright, throwing his legs over the side of the bed. He looked at the Audino, saying quietly, "Thanks..." He stretched his arms and legs, relieved to be free of paralysis.

He began to stand up, but the Audino gently sat him back down. "Sorry, you have to stay here until Assistant Guildmaster Harry returns. Your father said so." Ren muttered to himself, swinging his legs back onto the bed.

The Audino turned back to the door, stepping toward it. She turned back to them, halfway into the main entry. "Harry should be here soon, so be good! I'll just be at the front desk!" She said in a singsong voice. She exited the room, sat behind the desk in the entry, picked up a book on medical knowledge, and began to read it.

For the next half hour, Ren just stared at Sion, the latter feeling uneased by the still Lucario. Pokemon began to exit the Cafe, going about on their daily activities, wild birds flying overhead from the Founder's Canyon. Gentle winds blew across the Guild, berry bushes swaying with the breeze.

The black and yellow head of Harry Heliolisk poked through the door, his eyes squinting as he studied the two. He strutted into the room, holding himself up with a regal air about him. "I'll escort both of you to the Dojo; Guildmaster Lukas and Master Mienshao await you there." Sion and Ren both stood up, the former wondering why he was had to go with Ren as he stepped toward him.

The Lucario grumbled, shuffling toward the Heliolisk. He muttered to himself, Harry perking up upon hearing. "You should feel ashamed of yourself for scaring Simeon half to death and injuring Sion!" he exclaimed. Ren glared at Sion, the Zoroark taking a step away from the Lucario.

They exited the room, the Audino enthralled in her book. They went outside, the few Pokemon there were crowding the Expedition Hall and Cafe. The morning light shifted from orange to blue, the sun steadily rising overhead.

Ren and Sion kept silent as the triangular Dojo came closer, the heightened voices of two Pokemon heard exclaiming at each other. Sion tilted his head, trying to hear what they were saying:

"This will be a bonding experience for both of them! You have to listen to what I say!"

"Only Auren needs this, not Illusion! However, you are right in the sense that they should bond with each other. The entire Guild would feel better if--"

Harry knocked on the door, exclaiming, "I brought the troublemakers!"

Sion rolled his eyes, saying to himself, "I didn’t really do anything…”

Ren cleared his throat, the word 'Liar' evident within. Sion ignored the disgruntled Lucario, remembering how much he loathed the Pokemon. Why did Ren hate him so much? He did nothing wrong. Did he?

The door opened, a distressed Master Mienshao on the other side. He sighed with relief, taking Sion's paw. "Thank goodness you're alright." He looked over to Ren, his expression turning sterner. "You should be ashamed of yourself Ren. You've done some pretty dreadful things, but not to this extent."

Ren growled, looking over Victor's shoulders. "Blame the Pokemon who said I'm not going to be a Guildmaster," he muttered, staring at his father.

Lukas stepped closer, pushing Victor gently away. He looked upon Ren with disappointment, then at Harry. "You may leave now Harold. Victor and I can take care of this." Harry nodded, turning toward the Tower, pushing past Ren and Sion and running toward it.

Lukas stepped aside, motioning Ren and Sion to enter. "Come inside. We have things to discuss."

~~~~

Cosma panted, just barely floating over the ground. "Why is no one around?" She yelled. She had yet to sleep, desperately hoping to find some sign of civilization. She had wandered the forest for hours, seeing nothing but trees and shrubbery in her time.

She groaned, flopping to the ground. "I don't like this. I don't like this at all." She pouted, not noticing dark shapes behind her. “I want Chief Kernus…” she whimpered.

Bushes rustled; Cosma turned back to see them, gasping. “Who’s there?” They rustled again, a pair of yellow eyes visible. She slowly hovered back, pushing against a tree.

“D-Don’t hurt me! Please!” she cried, hearing the heavy exhales of a beefy Pokemon, its shadow hanging over the ground. From the trees above, leaves fell, and a dark shape flew down in front of her. Cosma screamed, the wild Taillow in the trees flying away from their perches.

~~~~

“Detention! With Ren?” Sion exclaimed incredulously. He stood in front of a desk, Ren standing next to him. Master Mienshao sat in his chair, with Lukas standing behind him, his arms crossed.

Mienshao nodded his head slowly. “You two have been at each other’s throats ever since you met. It’s time we change that, and I fail to see any other way.” He grimaced, thinking of previous attempts. “Believe me, I know.”

Ren smacked the table, infuriated. “Staying after school doing dumb chores is bad enough, but having Illusion there is too much!”

Lukas came forward and slammed the desk, knocking over a cup of pencils. “You have been a thorn in everyone’s side for too many years Auren. It’s time you take Sion’s example; he is a respectable Pokemon, and he doesn’t deserve the treatment that so many in the Guild give him.” Sion beamed with pride, much to the disappointment of his rival.

Ren muttered to himself, marching toward the door. Lukas called out, “You ought to treat others around you better, or you will not be a worthy successor!” The young Lucario stopped, turning his head slightly.

Lukas sighed quickly, exasperated. “I expect more from you, and I would love for you to take my mantle someday. Until you swallow your pride and show respect, I cannot allow the Guild to fall under your leadership.” Ren turned around completely, anger evident in his features. He grumbled to himself once more, looking to the ground, then returned to the desk, leaning against the wood.

“Fine, I’ll do it!” he exclaimed. He sighed, glaring hopelessly at Sion. “When do we start, how long will it take, and what are we doing?”

Mienshao set the cup upright, returning the pencils to the container. “You’ll start today, after school. For an hour and a half, you’ll be helping me and other Pokemon throughout the Guild, such as Simeon, who will need a new table built after today’s episode. We were thinking about continuing this for a week, but I’m warning you Ren:” He pulled a pencil from the cup, pointing it at Ren. “Every time you insult Sion, whether it be by a prank, note, or joke, another day will be added to the total. Capiche?” Ren reeled, nodding reluctantly.

Mienshao turned his pencil to Sion, saying, “Do you agree with this arrangement as well?” Sion held his chin thinking about it.

“I can understand this being a consequence for what Ren’s done, but why should I be here?” Sion asked.

Lukas gestured to Ren, saying, “You have your contentions with Ren as well; I heard from Victor yesterday about what happened. Someday you two will be put on an exploration team, and for first-time members, they have to be with a pre-selected team, often with personalities they don’t get along with. This will be practice for both of you.” He came closer to Sion, looking into his eyes. “Are we clear?”

Sion looked at Ren, who looked to the ground, irritated. Sion then looked down at Master Mienshao, who nodded subtly. Sion wondered what could come from this experience. He didn’t like Ren at all, but he did want to help change Ren for the better. It would take time, but maybe, after this, they could become friends.

Lukas held out his paw, and Sion took it, shaking it. Sion smiled, saying, “Fine.”

~~~~

Cosma shivered with fear, covering her eyes with her clouds of cosmic dust. She felt a cold hand touch her, eeping in response. White light began to surround her, then after completely enveloping her she disappeared, much to the surprise of the mysterious figure.

She landed in a treetop above, breathing quickly but quietly. She looked down, seeing a black frog-like thing looking up at her. He had a yellow chest and face, and had white spots around his elbows and knees. He stood tall, his tongue wrapped around his neck, and just over his squinted eyes was a blue bandana, covering his head, leaving his pointed ears to poke out.

He continued to look up, crouching. He jumped in the air, landing on the branch Cosma sat on. Cosma screamed once more, hovering to get away. The Pokemon grabbed one of her arms, hoisting her in the air. The Pokemon turned her, allowing her to look into his squinted brown eyes.

He tucked back his tongue-scarf, then said in a quiet tone, “Don’t be afraid; I am a friend.” Cosma looked curiously at him, tilted in the air by the way he grabbed her.

He tuned behind him, saying in a heightened yet hushed tone, “We got the Pokemon; you can come out.” From the bushes a lithe reptile with a green, frond-like tail scurried out, then a hulking pig-thing with a flaming beard came after. The frog jumped into the air once more, much to the dismay of Cosma. They landed on the ground softly, the Pokemon setting her in the center of the three of them.

Cosma whirled around, studying the three Pokemon. “Who are all of you? I don’t know what kinds of Pokemon you are…”

The frog grunted, as if he was surprised. “The large one you see to your left is an Emboar, a powerful fighter, even if he’s not too light on his feet. His name is George.”

The Emboar grinned, kneeling and holding out his hand. “Pleased to make you acquaintance Miss…” he said in a deep booming voice.

He kept his mouth open, looking at Cosma with a questioning look. She pondered on what he meant by this, then suddenly figured it out. She offered one of her arms to him, George taking it and shaking it. “Cosma. Cosma Cosmog,” she said, smiling.

George laughed heartily, clutching his belly. "Ha ha ha, a Cosmog! Never heard of one of those before!" she exclaimed, stomping the ground. Cosma hovered back, slightly nervous around the jolly Emboar. She bumped into the leg of the green reptile, the sleek, pointed head coming closer to her.

"I am a Sceptile; my name is Wilson," he said, holding out his own claw. Cosma took it, Wilson's yellow eyes half-open. The Sceptile then added, "Pleased to make your acquaintance."

Cosma smiled, offset by the unusual personality of Wilson. She turned to the frog, Wilson letting go of her arm. The black Pokemon stooped down, leaning one arm against the ground, keeping the other back. "My name is Gaiden Greninja, the leader of Team Tri-Attack," he announced quietly. He stood up once more, crossing his arms, looking down at Cosma. "What is your business here in the outskirts of the Elusive Woods, a dangerous Mystery Dungeon for one such as yourself?"

Cosma thought for a moment, tilting her head and frowning. She then hopped into the air, remembering. "Oh, oh! I have important news! I came from the Tapu Islands, and I need help!" Gaiden looked at his companions, seeing their astonished expressions.

George stepped closer, open-mouthed. "She means the Forgotten Isles, doesn't she?"

Wilson's forked tongue hung out of his mouth, the Sceptile adding, "The Islands that lie past the Mist Wall?"

Gaiden held his hand up, hushing them. He stooped down in front of Cosma once more, studying her. "...she's an unfamiliar species to all of us, and we're as experienced as any team by Lucario Guild's standards. I'd say her statement holds true." He held out his palm toward Cosma, saying, "We'll take you to our Guildmaster, Lukas Lucario; he can help you."

Cosma leaped into the air, giggling with glee. "Thank you, thank you, thank you! I've been wandering this forest ever since last night!" She exclaimed, hopping onto Gaiden's palm. He stood up, turning to the north, holding Cosma in both hands. Team Tri-Attack began their trek to Lucario Guild, crossing the Elusive Forest.

~~~~

Sion and Ren continued through the school day, learning Victor Mienshao's lesson on Wands. Sion listened intently throughout, while Ren sat bored and irritated, wanting to pester Sion but knowing that his punishment would be increased if he did so. He was particularly irritated by the fact that battle practice was foregone because of 'certain events'. The hours went by, and toward the end of the day, Mienshao's rambling slowed, and students could return home.

Ren sat in his chair, ignoring the fearful looks the other student gave him. Back at the cafe, Simeon had told his story of horror and woe, about nearly being murdered by the mad Lucario. The Slurpuff had exaggerated the tale, but it was enough to set Pokemon on edge.

Sion stood up, standing next to the disgruntled Ren. Ren looked up, then looked back down. "Don't think we'll be 'friends' that quickly... Sion. You have and always will have Arthus as an ancestor. Anyone who's related to that freak shouldn't be here." Ren muttered, standing up. Sion kept quiet, hearing such comments many times in the past. This particular time had a more personal nature to it for some reason, most likely due to the fact they'd be spending more time with each other.

They both walked to Mienshao's desk, where the teacher was writing notes on a leaf of paper. He looked up, smiling gently. "I'm glad to see that nothing came up in class today Ren. Already we're seeing improvement."

Ren stretched, his ever-present frown on his face. "I'm only stopping because Dad said so. What do you want us to do first?"

Mienshao set his pencil on his lips, thinking. "Hmm, maybe washing the practice dummies. They’re dusty from our lack of battle practice today, and they need a good wash from all the times they'd been used. Just go into the closet and wet the rags on the shelf, then use them to wash them off." He returned to writing, saying, "I'll be over here making notes about class today, then sending them to Guildmaster Lukas. I encourage the both of you to talk; the sooner you get along the better."

The two detained Pokemon looked at each other, then turned back to the closet, no banter going between them. In the back of the room, inside the closet, a large bucket with two gray rags sat on the bottom.

Ren picked it up, looking inside. Mildew covered the rags, growing from lack of use. He held it away, plugging his nose. "How long has it been since they've been cleaned?" he cried.

Mienshao looked up, pondering. "Around...four years I'd say. I can't say I remember exactly," Victor noted. Ren pushed the bucket into Sion's claws, rubbing his paws on his chest in disgust.

Sion looked down into the bucket, turning away and making a foul face. "We need to wash these before anything else. Now," he said, holding his breath. He ran outside, running for one of several fountains that lay indented in the canyon wall.

Ren grinned leaning back on the wall. "I have to wait for him before I can do anything else..."

Mienshao shook his head, erasing a line from the paper. "Not quite Auren. You can bring the dummies outside, that way they can dry after you're done washing them. I'm sure a Pokemon with such strength can complete such a feeble task." Mienshao noted. Ren looked at him incredulously, then groaned with contempt, moving toward the nearest dummy and pulling it from the recess. Mienshao, under the glare of the evening sun, smirked.
 
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Chapter 06: Cosmog Journeying

Page 35 of the Explorer's Guide: Exploration Teams


Exploration Teams have been in place since time immemorial, saving Pokemon from the many Mystery Dungeons that populate Equivos. When Matheus Lucario came and formed the Guild System, these teams were organized to be more efficient in their work. A team is a group of three Pokemon that have graduated Expedition school and are able to pass the Coalition Test.

Matheus' Notes:

In my time after Arthus ruined the first Lucario Guild, I was what I called a Freelance Explorer, a Pokemon who explores Mystery Dungeons and saves others on their own, away from other members or Guilds. It was...entertaining at times, and not so much at others. Suffice to say, I'd rather not talk about it...

----------

Sion threw his blackened rag into the water-filled bucket, the contents a deep brown. He put his claws at his sides, exhaling softly. "Finally...we're done." In the dojo, all the desks had been piled under the eave that the dummies formerly took. A dozen wooden figures stood outside the dojo, glistening in the fading sunlight. Their aged scars shown through, achievements of successfully defending opponent’s blows.

Ren lounged against the side of the building, looking up. “Yeah, real nice work, scrubbing down dummies. I love ‘em so much I want to punch them.” He rubbed his feet, groaning. “You’re lucky I had to do most of the heavy lifting. My feet are killing me.”

Mienshao stepped among the dummies, inspecting their work. He stopped at one, punching it, the dummy rocking backward, then launching forward. Mienshao stepped out of the way, nodding appreciatively, rubbing his punching paw. “Nicely done, nicely done! There’s nothing like hitting freshly polished wood.” He turned to Sion, who was dumping the water from the bucket onto a nearby tree. He finished, tossing the rags into the bucket.

Mienshao said to them both, “Feel free to go home now; I can take care of putting things away. If you act like this for long enough, I’m sure you’ll end up laughing with each other in the café in no time!” He crouched next to the dummy, grabbing its base. He hefted it up, carrying it with little difficulty. “I can still do some heavy-lifting you know!” he exclaimed, disappearing inside.

Ren stood up, stretching his limbs. “Finally, I was about to just run off!”

Sion came closer, smoothing down his fur, making a futile attempt to make it neat. “Right, but at least you didn’t. Like you, I want to spend as little time as possible working on these chores.”

Ren turned to him, uncaring. “Don’t think that just because we have to be with each other we’re friends. I don’t like you one bit.”

Sion stepped onto the trail, waving good-bye to him. “Well I don’t either. See you tomorrow!” Sion exclaimed. Ren rolled his eyes, moving along the path the opposite way.

Sion talked to himself while going towards the Azure Inn, his voice his channel to focus his thoughts. “At least I don’t have to be with him for another day…yet. I don’t want to be with Ren…not after what’s happened since I got into school. I guess what Master Mienshao was doing could work; maybe Ren will soften up after a while. We might not be friends in the future, but we could at least get along with each other.” He held his paw against his head, cringing.

“But what about everyone else? Who’s going to even want me on their team? I’m the grandson of Arthus, and that already tells everyone what they want to know. I’m the descendant of a Pokemon who tried to destroy the world, who nearly ruined the Guilds and stole children away from their homes.” He tightened his fists, looking into the air, determined. “I will not end up like him! I’ll prove it, even if Dad couldn’t!” He began running, a single Pokemon laying witness to it: A brown-cloaked figure, high in the Master's Tower.

~~~~

Cosma stretched her arms, yawning. "I had a good nap. I feel like I can stay awake for hours!" She floated above George Emboar's massive hands, suddenly awaking from her rest. They traveled along the fringes of the forest, stretching into a series of large hills, mountains of earth towering above them.

George laughed heartily, wiping a faux tear from his eye. "That's a good one if I ever heard one! You slept almost the entire day! What are you, nocturnal?"

Cosma sighed wistfully, a dreamy look in her eyes. "I just really like the moon. If I sleep at night, I don't get a chance to see it, so I sleep during the day," she replied. Gaiden continued onward, remaining ever-silent on their journey.

Wilson crept closer, walking alongside the hovering Cosma. "So, what can you do? In terms of combat skills, I mean." Cosma closed her eyes, pondering. She then plopped onto the ground, hopping around and flailing her arms. George and Wilson gave her bewildered looks, unsure of what she was doing.

She stopped, holding her arms behind her back sheepishly. "I can Splash, I suppose..."

Wilson looked at George shaking his head, disappointed. He crouched next to her, saying, "Is there anything else you can do?" Cosma though some more, tilting her face. She beamed, twists of light beginning to surround her. She disappeared within it, vanishing for several moments. A flash of light appeared above Gaiden, the Cosmog visible within. She cheered, then realizing where she was, cried out, landing on Gaiden's head.

The Greninja halted, plucking Cosma from up above. He held her, his constantly squinting eyes making Cosma want to squirm. He tucked back his tongue and said, "I'd rather not have mysterious Pokemon land on my head while I'm trying to get to a spot safe from wild Pokemon." He set her on the ground, the Cosmog hovering with a puzzled face.

Cosma stood still, allowing George and Wilson to meet with her, Gaiden continuing his constant pace. She started forward once more, saying, "What's his problem? Had a shouting match with a Crabrawler or something?"

Wilson shook his head, scratching his chest. "Nah, nothing of the sort; don't even know what a Crabrawler is. He's just a quiet and temperamental guy." A strong breeze blew through, shaking what few trees remained in their path. Three shadows passed over them, their owners high in the sky, slowly descending.

Gaiden grunted, halting. George and Wilson met with their leader, the former snorting and punching his fists together, the latter hissing and fanning is tail. Cosma swiftly floated to George's head, the fiery mane brighter than before.

"What're you three so angry about? It's just a bunch of birds."

George turned to her, grunting in disagreement. "Two birds and a bat you mean. We aren't on good terms with who's coming down: Team Aerospace," he replied. The shadows proceeded along the ground, changing their trajectory toward Team Tri-Attack's direction. In front of them were three flying Pokemon, in a triangular formation: An Archeops to the left, a Skarmory to the right, and a Noivern in the center. The Noivern had beefy arms and scrawny legs, showing significant use over his career. His ears were red on the inside rather than a greenish-blue, and over his forehead was a dark red bandana, marking him as the leader of Team Aerospace.

The Noivern touched down first, sending his feet forward, hanging his wings back. The Skarmory flapped in the air, metal scratching on metal as her claws touched the ground. The Archeops steadily descended, running along the ground to slow down when he made contact. The three halted in front of the irritated Team Tri-Attack, the Noivern emitting a boom of sound, thrusting Cosma backward.

He stomped his foot, waving to Gaiden with a wide grin. "Good to see you on this fine day! What brings the great Team Tri-Attack to these parts?" Gaiden sighed, Cosma floating over George's head and moving next to Gaiden.

The three stared wide-eyed at her, the Noivern's jaw dropping. "Whoa boy...haven't seen one of those before..." he said.

The Skarmory nodded, her weighted wingtip falling to the ground. "What is it?"

The Archeops stepped around the Noivern, sweeping his tail along the ground. He came next to her and whispered, "Must be an evolutionary hiccup of some sort. Can happen down the line of Ghosts.”

Cosma fumed, a little jet of purple dust ejecting from her arms. She furiously floated in front of the Archeops, the bird stepping back with a surprised expression. “I’ll have you know that I am not a Ghost or an evolution of one! I am my own distinct species from the Tapu Islands, and I’ve come from there to get help!” she exclaimed, the Archeops continuing to step back as she drove closer.

The Noivern guided the Archeops back, saying, “Easy there, my colleague meant no offense.” He looked to the air, considering her statement. “So, you come from the Tapu Islands you say…meaning…” His eyes shot open, and he grabbed the Archeops by his arms, shaking him. “She’s from the Forgotten Isles! This is revolutionary! We have to—“ He stopped, the Archeops dizzy from the shaking. The Noivern turned to Cosma, seeing her confused expression. He cleared his throat, letting go of the Archeops, the bird falling to the ground.

“Excuse me, I don’t believe we’ve been properly introduced. My name is Ekonmer Noivern, but I go by Ekon for short. The Skarmory is named Rix, and the Archeops is Aaron. We’re Team Aerospace, probably the best team of Lucario Guild,” Ekon stated.

George guffawed, pushing forward. “You’re one to talk! Don’t forget that Team Tri-Attack goes where you don’t; you seem to limit yourselves on sky-based operations, unless I’m mistaken.” Ekon clenched his fists, grunting.

He shrugged, holding his hands in the air. “Places we need to be on the ground a lot aren’t ideal for Flying Pokemon you know. Why don’t we see you up in the high mountains Gaiden?” Gaiden looked away, shutting his eyes.

“I prefer not to answer. Every team should always strive to be the best, even if they believe they already are,” Gaiden replied, a hint of contempt in his voice.

Ekon laughed sarcastically, wrapping his arm around the reclusive Greninja. “Gaiden, you’re right. Why can’t we just be friends? You know I’m not so bad, and I know you aren’t. Let’s go take the Cosmog to Lucario Guild together. I can help you with the night travel,” he said. Gaiden ducked under and slipped away, keeping his arms crossed.

Wilson replied, “We are doing just fine, thank you. The main reason we don’t like you is because of your loudness and reckless way of getting things done, and the reason you don’t like us is because of our selective speaking and by-the-book strategies. We can take Cosma to Lucario Guild ourselves.”

Cosma hovered behind him, nodding. “I like being with Gaiden, even if he’s cranky,” she stated. Gaiden set his face into his palm, shaking his head.

“Only because you were on my head earlier. Not many Pokemon appreciate that sort of thing,” he sighed.

Ekon nodded respectfully, raising his wings. “Alright, suit yourself. Me and my buddies will just fly over there ourselves. We’ll make sure to keep the big surprise for you to announce, but we’ll mention that we helped Team Tri-Attack with an important mission. See ya!” Ekonmer exclaimed. He screamed into the air, a jet of sound echoing into the sky. The three turned around, Ekon flapping his wings and going into the air immediately, Rix running forward a bit and flying, while Aaron ran forward for a longer distance, finally rising high into the air a minute later.

Cosma looked toward the setting sun dreamily, the orange slowly shifting to bluish-green. “They seem nice. Can we talk with them once we’re there?”

Wilson pulled her from Gaiden’s area, shaking his head. “No way. Ekon is just a loudmouth and a braggart. He may be good, but more often than not his unorthodox techniques make more problems than they solve.”

Gaiden turned to them, uncrossing his arms. “Correct, but you forget that our strict techniques leave little room for improvisation, so we are disadvantaged as well,” he stated. He turned back to the path, seeing the fleeting shapes of Team Aerospace in the sky. “We’ll reach Lucario Guild by tomorrow morning, after we rest. This area should be fine, so let’s make a camp off the trail.”

Cosma hovered in front of the, bewildered. “Wait, you’re going to sleep now? But night only just started, and the moon hasn’t even come out yet!” She cried. Gaiden stepped around her, his tongue trailing behind him.

“I’d rather miss the moon and be well rested in the morning than watch night go by and be exhausted. You can watch the moon by yourself; at least you’ll be quieter in the day,” he replied. George came close to her, shrugging, then continued following his leader, stamping down the earth for a comfortable sleeping space.

Cosma harrumphed, light surrounding her. She teleported to the top of a tree, the spindly branches catching her. She leaned back, watching the moon begin to rise, the fullness illuminating the landscape. She sighed dreamily, gazing at the celestial body as it made its ascent.

“I wish I could be the moon someday…”

~~~~

In Lucario Guild, Ren punched a sandbag, the chain anchored to the ceiling above He stood on top of a mess of various belongings, all outside their drawers and cubbies. A bed sat behind him, wrinkled and creased, the only clean spot being his nightstand. His closet hung open, empty and unused, and his desk overflowed with paper, assignments long past due. On the night stand were the few belongings he actually cared about, the others being gifts from others that meant little. A golden clock, the face embedded with the Arc of Arceus, showed the time, half past ten, the etchings below the seal saying, “From Arceus to the descendant of Laryon, hero of Equivos.” Behind it was a picture frame, showing a young Riolu being held by a Lucario in a brown cloak with a golden seal, and another with a pink necklace, the tiny shell beads laid against her fur. A lamp hung above the room, the light one of three in the night of Lucario Guild lit.

He punched the bag once more, saying to himself, “I will be a great Guildmaster…I will be a great Guildmaster…Mienshao doesn’t know what he’s talking about…Sion doesn’t know either…not even Dad!” He landed another punch in the bag, the spike on his paw scratching the surface, allowing sand to leak to the floor. He quickly covered it, grumbling as he found yet another patch to adorn its surface.

Outside Ren’s room on the third floor of the Expedition Hall, Sion pored over a tiny brown book, labelled ‘The Explorer’s Guide’. His mother lay sleeping on the bed, exhausted from assisting Molly through the day as a Gardevoir as to avoid suspicion. Their room, sparse and clean, was lit only with the candle next to Sion’s book.

He yawned tiredly, smacking his lips He shook himself awake, forcing his eyes to stay open. “I will finish my weekly reading…I’ve got to keep my…mind…sharp…” He fell against the table, snoring gently, the book open on the final page. A draft blew through, extinguishing the candle next to him, leaving only two lights to brighten the dark night.

High in the night sky, a lantern hung from the glass dome, making a dim beacon for others to see. Lukas Lucario sat on his bed, leaning his head against his paws, thinking intently. His desk lay with various requests for help, all completed thanks to the Exploration Teams he housed. He ignored them, thinking of his personal life rather than his public.

Harry poked his head up from the room below, a checklist in his claw. “Inventory’s all finished, and I can say that everything’s accounted for. No thefts yet, which I find is a marvelous addition to a three-hundred…year…” He trailed off, seeing his Guildmaster continue to look to the floor. Harry looked to the ground himself, unsure of what to say. He walked toward his master, sitting on the bed alongside him.

Lukas, still facing the ground, said, “Where did I do wrong with Auren? I’ve treated him as best I could, following the advice of others, yet he still ended up like this.” Harry patted his shoulder, coming closer.

“It’s not your fault. You should remember that you were like him when you were young. Cocky, careless, and, to be honest, violent. Don’t you remember what helped you become a good Guildmaster by your father’s standards?” Harold said.

Lukas looked up, smiling softly. “My future wife, Lara, and the Adventure of Grim Mountain. She softened me, while the mountain tempered me. Without them, I probably would still be like Auren,” he reminisced. He cringed, remembering another dark thought, choosing to let it stay hidden. He said otherwise stating, “But there hasn’t been someone that admires Ren for anything else but his ancestor, and I can’t let him go out in the world without proper training. I put him in the Expedition Hall, hoping that would help, but so far it has done nothing, seeing the rigors of Guild life.” He stood up, looking out to the night sky, the stars coming and the moon rising the ivory glow pouring over Serenita.

He inhaled deeply, then exhaled slowly, his colleague remaining silent as the topic lingered. Lukas looked down at his chest, holding the Guildmaster’s Seal in his paw. It pulsed softly with blue light, its power from the days of old still present in this day and age.

“Someday Auren will go somewhere that only he and his closest ally can go to, and he has to have changed from what he is now. He will be a great Pokemon one day.” Lukas covered the light, dimming the room.

“But he must change.”
 
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Chapter 07: Special Visitations

Page 39 of the Explorer's Guide: Expedition School

The Expedition School system was first proposed and established by Aram Electivire, the last Guildmaster left on Equivos when Lucario Guild was formed. He wanted to help Pokemon seeking to learn how to be Exploration Teams and serve a Guild properly. Since then all the Guilds hold a form of school for Pokemon who are 14 years old, allowing them to graduate at 18.

Matheus' Notes:

Age is subjective in our world; Laryon Lucario began his learning when he was 10 years old, yet he was as mature as any adult I knew by the time he evolved. The reverse is also true, however. I once knew a Slowpoke that was supposedly sixty years old, yet he still played with toys like a small child. I guess that's why he's called the 'Dopey Pokemon'.

----------

A new day shone over Lucario Guild, the morning sun peeking over the high cliffs of the canyon they lived in. Swablu made their daily migration back into the Founder's Canyon, chirping in the morning air, the civilized Pokemon tossing away the covers and starting their day.

On the second floor of the Azure Inn, Sion snored, the Explorer's Guide acting as a pillow. His foot twitched, grazing the floor with slight claw marks, the resting Zoroark unable to notice.

He felt slight pressure on his shoulder, feeling warmth. He tried to bush it away, mumbling, "I wanna stay here...it’s warm..." In reality it was somewhat chilly, the sun still having to warm the ground for the new day.

He felt his shoulder being shaken, then the breath down his neck. "Come on, it’s time to wake up," Corinne said. Sion's eyes fluttered open, the Zoroark rising from his sleep. Corinne stepped back, allowing her son to stretch.

He quickly bent forward once more, rubbing his back. "Now I know how Molly felt yesterday. I'm not falling asleep here again..." he grumbled.

Corinne beamed, helping Sion up. "Come on, let's head downstairs," she said, opening the door. She exited the room, as did Sion, walking down the stairs, the inn silent in the waking of the guild.

Corinne descended the stairwell, turning to Sion at the bottom. She held up haltingly, saying, "Wait here." Sion obeyed, standing at the top, watching his mother go to the left.

He sat down, flopping to the ground, his limbs still sore with tiredness. He stretched once more, his back still in pain from his unusual sleeping position. He smoothed down his fur, the constant scruffiness present still.

Waiting for Corinne, he thought of yesterday, and what today will hold. Ren treated him better, and most likely he will today. The lack of bullying did not change the fact that Ren still hated him, for some unknown reason. It couldn't just be his lineage; if it was, he would just be treated as others did. There had to be a good reason for this behavior.

He held his head, considering what he read last night. Master Mienshao often said that he was the best in class, but he wasn't so sure. He knew all about dungeon strategies, and he loved the stories that Mienshao told, especially of Matheus Lucario and the original founding of the guilds. But he felt that he didn't have the heart to go into exploring as others did in Serenita; everyone in Lucario Guild knew who he was, and he wished that Arthus had never had Erik Zoroark, ensuring that none would have to deal with the burden he created on his legacy.

He stirred as he heard his mother say, "You can come down now." He pushed himself up, stepping down the stairs languidly. He turned left around the corner, looking to the ground at first, then looking up.

"Happy Birthday!"

Corinne, Molly, Doug and Victor stood around a low table, a round chocolate cake in the center. It was decorated with white frosting on top, rounds of sugar lining the top edge. In the middle were the words "Happy 17th Birthday Illusion!", seventeen candles encircling it. They all wore conical hats, making them look like clowns for a day. The only Pokemon not smiling was Doug Diggersby, who crossed his arms on his fur and shuffled his feet, grumbling about not wanting to wear the hat.

Sion stood at the stairs, flabbergasted. He then came closer, the sweet smells of the confection rising to his nose. He had completely forgotten about his special day, the one day he had to feel special in a different way.

Molly stepped forward, a wide cheery smile across her face. "It's hard to believe it's been twelve years already!" She exclaimed, hugging the astonished Zoroark. She looked back, seeing her pouting husband remaining in his position. She released Sion from the embrace and said, "You come here right now and give one of our longest resident at least a pawshake! It's his birthday!"

Doug sighed, stomping over and grasping Sion's paw in an iron grip, the recipient wincing. "Congrats on the b-day. Now, if you excuse me, I'm going to my room to forget I ever wore this dumb hat," he grumbled, stomping away into his room, tossing the brightly colored cone out the door.

Molly sighed, shaking her head. "At least he avoids you rather than annoys you...most of the time." She stepped back, allowing the aged Master Mienshao to step forward, shaking Sion’s paw.

“Congratulations young Sion! It’s really been a treat having you here in Lucario Guild for so long,” he said. He gave a knowing smile, coming in closer. “And for you to be so knowledgeable in the art of exploration is remarkable in my class,” he said in hushed tones. He gave a wink, and exclaimed, “Why don’t we have our birthday boy blow out his candles for a wish?”

Sion shrugged, stepping in front of the cake, the lighted candles’ smoke spiraling in front of him. Corinne grinned with pride, saying, “To think that my little Zorua is nearly a grown Zoroark! You’ll be in an exploration team and exploring Serenita in no time!”

Sion replied, “Yep, soon enough…” He looked down to the candles, the wax dripping from the top. He took a deep breath, and a hidden wish took form in his heart. He blew out the candles, all seventeen blown away, a haze of smoke in the air. His wish hovered in his mind, the smoke dissipating from the air:

“I wish to be loved by the Guild.”

~~~~

Ren was sprawled across his bed, resting fitfully, and thinking of what his father said two days before. He heard a knock on his door, but he ignored it. The knock came again, and he groaned, exclaiming, "What is it?"

"It's Harold. Can you come downstairs for a moment?" a voice said from behind the door.

Ren covered his head with his pillow, wanting to have a few more precious moments of sleep. "Can't it wait for later?" he asked.

"No, it can't. Please come down," Harold replied. Ren heard the lizard's footsteps tread down the hall, exiting the third floor.

Ren sat up on his bed, stretching. He looked over to his punching bag, at least four new patches on its surface. He stood up, scratching his back, then walked to the door and opened it, exiting into the hallway.

The hallway wrapped around a giant square-shaped hole, which lead down to the main gathering hall. Around this balcony was a series of doors, all leading to a room specifically for Exploration Team members. The entire hallway was painted white, with the walls being beige, and next to the stark white doors were little golden plaques indicating which team they belonged to.

Ren descended the stairs to his right, going down to the lower dormitories, then to the first floor, for the best dormitories and the main gathering hall. He stopped at the bottom of the stairs, the far end of the spacious hall lay out of his view as he leaned on the wall, thinking on his life.

He wanted so badly to be Guildmaster; he had to be as great as his father is! If only Sion wasn't there, then he wouldn't have to deal with moving dummies and other ridiculous tasks. Still, he knew Sion was a decent guy, but he couldn't leave alone the fact that he was related to Arthus. Especially since--

"Come on Ren!" Harold exclaimed. Ren shoved himself from the wall, walking from the stairwell to the open hall.

"Happy Birthday!"

Ren stepped back, startled. In front of the two massive message boards were all his friends from school and Harold, with a square yellow cake in front of them, covered in chocolate with seventeen candles on top.

Johnson Luxio ran forward, ramming into Ren's side. "You didn't forget your birthday, did you? After all the work we put into that cake?" Harold rubbed the side of his chin, wincing.

"After Gregory 'accidentally' threw that bag of flour, I'd say it was difficult," Harold replied.

Gregory Geodude hovered right next to his face and exclaimed, "I'm telling you, Felicia was playing tricks on me!"

The Kirlia exclaimed, "Did not! You threw it into him!"

David Snorunt hopped onto the table and said while shivering, "W-Why not just e-eat the cake?"

Harold nodded agreeably, pushing away Gregory. "Indeed. Ren, how about you make your wish?" he said. Ren shrugged, moving alongside Johnson toward his birthday treat.

Before he could do his birthday duty, Harold stepped in front of him. He quickly wrapped his arms around Ren, being careful of his chest spike. He said in hushed tones, "You’re a great Pokemon, just like your father. I hope you can be like he is someday," he stepped back, allowing Ren to move in front of his cake.

Ren, surprised by the unexpected comment, thought of what to wish for. There has been one thing, and one thing only, on his mind: “Help me to be the perfect Guildmaster.”

~~~~

In the Founder’s Canyon, a posse of Pokemon traveled to the main gate, the smallest of them yawning tiredly. Team Tri-Attack had finally reached Lucario Guild, their unusual cargo in tow.

Cosma smacked her lips, rising from her perch on George’s head. “Are we there yet?”

George looked up, nodding. “Yep we are. Behold Lucario Guild!” He exclaimed. Around the four were the eight founder’s statues, towering above the normal-sized Pokemon. In front of them were the open gates of a massive wall, welcoming all who wished to enter. The entry toward the wall extended to a large berry plantation, Pokemon such as Combee and Vespiquen working the fields and gathering their spoils.

Cosma hopped in the air, exclaiming, “Yippee! We’re here, we’re here!” She suddenly stopped, confused further. “But now what?”

Gaiden drew the Cosmog down, pulling her close. He whispered to Cosma, “I say we surround you, keeping you hidden until Guildmaster Lukas can—“ He looked down, seeing only the stray particles of her body. Concerned, he turned his head forward, seeing the child-like Cosma rushing forward, greeting everyone she met.

“Hello! Nice to see you! I haven’t seen anyone like you before! What are you doing? I’m Cosma Cosmog!” she said, continuing a stream words that the bewildered Pokemon forgot soon after hearing them, all thinking the same thing: What is she?

Wilson and George looked at each other nodding. They pushed ahead of Gaiden, calling out to Cosma. Gaiden walked behind them, confident that his companions would catch the cosmic being.

Cosma continued floating, ecstatic to see so many kinds Pokemon. She looked around her, never seeing so many permanent developments in her lifetime. She suddenly bumped into a black leg, and looking up, saw a familiar face.

“Hey Ekon? How’ve you been?” she asked.

Ekon Noivern looked down, grinning. “Nice to see that you made it to Lucario Guild!” he exclaimed, hoisting her up in the air. Other Pokemon drew closer, leading the shape in the Master’s Tower to disappear down the stairs.

As more Pokemon began to surround her, Cosma lost her glee, becoming fearful. "H-Hey, why are you all around me like that?" George and Wilson broke through the surrounding crowd, circling around Cosma.

Wilson held out his claws and said, "Leave her alone! She's not going to hurt you!" He exclaimed. The Guild Pokemon insisted on studying this new species. From the Azure Inn and Expedition Hall, more Pokemon came, including Ren Lucario and Sion Zoroark.

Ren turned to Corinne and asked, "What do you think's going on?" The crowd circled the imposing figures of Wilson and George,

Corinne shrugged, unsure. They approached the crowd, hoping to see whatever was so interesting.

Ren stood several feet away from the Pokemon, asking Harold, "Think there's something important in there?"

Harold nodded, saying, "Indeed. We best go there; with all this ruckus, there has to be something good." They entered, pushing through the throng.

Gaiden Greninja hopped over the crowd, landing in front of Cosma. They all hushed at his presence, knowing the reputation of the leader of Team Tri-Attack. The Greninja said in a normal tone, "The visitor is the Guildmaster's business; go back to your duties please. You'll all be introduced to her soon enough."

The cloaked Lukas Lucario opened the door of the Master's Tower, the audible creak alerting all that he approached. He stepped down the stairs, turning towards the center of the crowd. He moved toward it, the Pokemon moving out of his way as he continued.

He stepped lightly on the ground in front of Cosma, studying the Cosmog. He knelt down, holding out his paw. Cosma looked up at him, seeing his friendly face. He said in a clear voice, "My name is Lukas Lucario. I am the Guildmaster here."

Cosma grinned, hopping on top of the paw. She said loudly, "My name's Cosma, and I'm from the Tapu Islands!" This immediately caused a stir; everyone in the Guild learned in their youth that the Tapu Islands were thought to exist, but there had been no substantial proof until now.

Lukas' face remained friendly as he asked, "And what brings you all the way from what we call the Forgotten Isles?"

Cosma replied, her face turning darker. "I... I need your help. We're being attacked by things called...Ultra Beasts." Lukas immediately turned to the Tower, Cosma in paw.

He entered the door, and before closing it, he announced, "Harold, gather the Council; we have important matters to discuss." He promptly shut the door, the clamor outside rising to immense discussion.

Harold turned to Ren and said, "Sorry, duty calls. I wish I could celebrate, but a being from the Forgotten Isles..." He shook his head in astonishment. "It's just such a surprise!" He skittered through the crowd to gather the Guild Council, leaving Ren to wonder what these 'Ultra Beasts' were.

Sion stood outside the crowd, seeing only a fleeting glimpse of the mysterious Cosma. He heard her say she was from the Forgotten Isles. History was being made; the Forgotten Isles truly exist! There was only one thing left to do: go there.

He sighed to himself, his excitement cooling and turning to dejection. Corinne set a claw under her son’s chin, picking it up. "What's the matter? You don't like all this attention towards that new Pokemon, instead of it being on you?"

Sion shook his head, saying, "No, not that. It's just that the Tapu Islands have just been confirmed to exist, and I know that I'll probably have no chance of going to them. I'm just a student in Expedition School who has little chance of getting in his own exploration team." His mother came in front of him, grabbing his paw.

"You are far more than that Illusion! You are a smart, dependable Pokemon, and I am sure that one day, you will be able to go there and make all its secrets known!" She turned away, sighing. "Of course, they're surely going to send someone else in to make sure it's safe. I don't know what that Cosma said, but I can say that by her expression, it can't be good."

Sion looked at the top of the tower, where the shape of Guildmaster Lukas was visible. He looked down to the base, where Harold had five other Pokemon trailing behind him: Simeon Slurpuff, Molly Lopunny, Doug Diggersby, Victor Mienshao, and Isis Gothitelle, the director of the Medical Bay. All followed the Heliolisk into the tower, progressing toward the top of the Master's Tower for Council.

The crowd began to disperse, knowing that they'd receive word when the Guildmaster saw fit. Gathers returned to the fields, healers to the bay, cooks to the kitchen, and various others. Sion saw his fellow students going back to the Dojo, to await instruction. He began to follow, knowing that their schooling would be delayed by this sudden announcement.

Behind him, Ekon Noivern swooped in from above, letting out a screech. He landed next to Gaiden, the silent Greninja standing still. He turned to the Noivern and said, "Must you always screech before you land?"

Ekon laughed, clapping the Greninja on the back. "Ha ha, you're a funny one! Screeching helps me see better; I'm related to Zubats you know, and they always use echolocation to find their way around." He quickly diverted the subject, saying, "Anyways, nice to see that you made it back! I wasn't expecting you to come so soon however..."

Gaiden stepped away from the excitable Noivern, saying, "It is easy enough when you wake early. Would you please stop talking?"

Ekon harrumphed, crossing his arms. "Easy for you to say. You're more silent than a Whismur most days. I like talking; makes sure that all my thoughts don't get stuck in my head. What about you?" he replied. Gaiden, rubbed his temples, walking away.

Ekonmer growled with anger, flapping into the air. "Fine! Have it your way! Never liked you silent types anyway..." He soared toward the Expedition Hall, high above the disagreeable Gaiden Greninja.

The day continued, with almost all Pokemon assuming their duties. The Council remained in the Master's Tower for over an hour, and this ended up causing some strife for their departments. Doug usually oversaw the cycling of jobs in the Expedition Hall, ensuring that each got equal attention; no one was there to order the many Chimecho to reshuffle them.

For the most part, the class of the dojo studied their notes, waiting for their teacher to return. Eventually they felt the need to communicate with one another, and the studying quickly devolved into a loud clamor of at least three different discussions. Sion remained silent, staying vigilant, until Ren's usual shenanigans returned.
 
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Chapter 08: Duo Dissonance

Page 42 of the Explorer's Guide: Legends and Myths

The Legends and Myths are unique Pokemon that have been granted eternal life by the Creation Pokemon, Arceus. Each have used their abilities to benefit the Pokemon World in some way, such as Groudon raising land from the seas.

Matheus' Notes:

I know the Legends and Myths quite well, as I myself am one. Come to think of it, I'm probably the most unique of all, introducing a new political idea rather than changing the world physically in some way. Hmm... hopefully that doesn't start a new trend...

----------

Within Mienshao’s class in the Fighting Dojo, discussion continued about the appearance of the mysterious Cosma Cosmog. The day continued with no sign of Mienshao, there were no concerns about what they may say…or what Ren may do with Sion. Discussion in the class continued like this:

“What do you think of that strange Pokemon?”

“I dunno. Haven’t seen one of them before. Do you really think she’s from the Forgotten Isles?”

“Has to be. Haven’t seen one of them around here before.”

“M-Maybe she’s a-an alien from s-space, l-like D-Deoxys.”

“Could be. Still, you’ve got to admit, she’s rather cute.”

Talk continued, with Sion continuing his reading of the Explorer’s Guide in silence. Ren looked over with Johnson, having a new idea. They whispered to each other, each making a mischievous grin. They stood up silently, padding behind Sion, the Zoroark paying no attention to his surroundings.

Ren slowly wrapped his paw around Sion’s head, gingerly grabbing the end of the pencil on top of Sion’s ear. He began pulling, then after a few moments, it fell free of Sion’s ear, hanging limply from Ren’s paw.

Sion absent-mindedly reached a claw towards his ear, expecting to find the pencil slightly out of place, as it tends to do at times. Finding no pencil, he groaned, closing the guide and looking down on the floor, thinking that it fell without him noticing. Ren grinned once more, taking the Guide off the desk with a swoop, replacing it with the pencil. Sion came back over the desk, looking where the Guide formerly sat.

He cocked his head, holding up the pencil that was in its place. He looked to his left and right, missing Ren in his peripheral vision. He sighed, tucking the pencil back above his ear. “Ren, I know it’s you. Come on, give it back.”

Ren gasped mockingly, holding the guide behind his back. “Really, you just pin the blame on me, just like that! After our two days of truce?”

Johnson took his same tone, holding himself as innocent as a trickster. “Yeah, we didn’t steal your pencil or guide, or nothing.”

Ren winced, smacking Johnson’s rear with the guide, receiving a cry of pain. With clenched teeth, he added, “Don’t be so obvious…”

Sion stood up, turning to the duo crossly. “Are you sure you don’t have my Guide?”

Ren tossed the book to Johnson, the tiny guide brushing against the Luxio’s mane. He then replied with his paws in the air, “Seriously, I don’t have it!” He pointed to where the Guide landed and said, “See, it just slid off your desk while you weren’t looking!” Sion groaned, stepping front of the grounded book, leaning down to pick it up.

Ren chuckled to himself, grabbing hold of the end of Sion’s headfur. He deftly yanked it, forcing Sion to fall to the floor before he could grab hold of the guide.

Ren held back his laughter as Sion rocked forward and grabbed the Guide, hugging it tight to his chest. He stood back up, sitting down in his chair, saying, "It's not funny Ren! You know that'd get you in trouble with Master Mienshao!"

Ren crossed his arms and said, "He's not even here, so why does it matter? It's not as if I'm hurting you."

Sion opened the Guide, holding it close and reading it. "Just leave me alone. I never did anything to you," Sion muttered. Ren shrugged, sitting back in his seat, trading hushed comments with Johnson.

For the next hour, Ren continued his usual tricks against Sion, with no reason in particular. Sion gone through lost pencils, stolen books, and pulled fur more and more, along with various other pranks such as paper balls.

Sion clenched his teeth, tightening his grip on the Explorer's Guide. Why did Ren have to do this? He made no sense, thinking that the bullying of another Pokemon was hilarious. Was everyone in the world like this? Was his own mindset in the minority?

A paper airplane flew over his head as he read a section of the Explorer's Guide he had forgotten until now:

Civilized Foes

Generally referred to as Outlaws, these Pokemon wish harm to other civilized Pokemon in some way, shape or form that goes against the laws set by the Guilds of Equivos. For any exploration team, one of their principle duties is to capture these Pokemon and bring them to justice within their guilds.

Many foes are not Outlaws, but simply rivals. In Equivos, many Pokemon share differing views, and often compete to prove their view is the most correct. While generally discouraged, Teams can duel one another on occasion, although infrequently. This is allowed to help build relationships and settle rivalries in the best way.

For civilized Pokemon under the law that share a differing mentality, do not pursue conflict as the answer. The most striking feature of all rivals is that they admire something that you have, and you will find that you admire something they have.

Sion looked up from the Guide, thinking of the words of wisdom it held. The entire book was written by Laryon Lucario himself, with only minor edits to adjust histories and lore that have been discovered. Laryon knew the best ways to explore, being taught by the Guildmaster Pokemon, Matheus Lucario.

The door flew open, causing Ren to drop the glue that was in his paw. Harold Heliolisk leered across the classroom, his disapproving stare catching the attention of the nine students.

He looked over to Sion and said, "Guildmaster Lukas wishes to see you Sion. Please come to the Tower with me," Sion nodded, closing the Guide and carrying it with him, standing up and striding toward Harold.

Ren sat down as Harold added, "He wishes to see you as well Ren. Please come with me."

Ren leaned back, smoothing back the spike of fur between his ears. "Is it really important? Why can't I just stay here?"

Harold's frill lifted slightly with indignation, the lizard exhaling to calm himself. "Because, you’re father and the rest of the Guild Council has requested for you to join them. Now come!"

Ren hurried to stand, waving goodbye to his friends. "I'll see ya in a couple of minutes!" He exclaimed. Harold groaned inwardly, turning to the door and leading Sion out. Ren followed.

They trudged across the path, the day holding a different emotion than how it did before Cosma arrived. Sion could've sworn that there was something awaiting him inside the Master's Tower. Why else would the Guild ask for him?

He looked down to Harold and asked, "Do you know why they're asking for me and Ren?"

Ren chuckled sarcastically and asked, "Are they gonna send us to the Forgotten Isles because we're 'the most promising recruits of the Expedition School'?"

Harold turned to him with a sly grin, replying, "You'll find out soon enough." Ren blinked, feeling a chill from Harold's answer. Sion felt the same way, the wind swooping down and blowing his headfur upward.

Harold clasped his fingers together, asking, "So, Sion, what do you know about the Forgotten Isles?"

Sion smiled, relieved to have a discussion without such negative feelings. "They're also known as the Tapu Islands, and from what Pokemon have discovered on Deitae, they used to be closer to the mainland, and the Mist Wall hadn't existed. Several thousand years ago, all traces of interaction with the Pokemon of the Forgotten Isles stopped, and it was right around then that the Mist Wall was first recorded. Other than that, nothing is known; any history of the islands themselves or of the Pokemon that exist there were taken with it."

Harold looked at him with a glint in his eye, impressed. "Very good! I take it that you listen to Victor in his classes?"

"I do indeed! I just love learning about history, strategy, anything about dungeon exploration really," Sion replied.

Harold looked away, his smile fading. "Except combat skills, I've heard."

Sion winced, looking away. "Yeah...I've never really liked fighting other Pokemon," he replied with hesitance. He quickly rebounded and said, "But I'm really good in every other way, I can promise you that."

Ren interjected and said, "But how would you survive against Wild Pokemon unless you know how to fight? Your cheap illusions can't save you forever."

Harold stepped in front of him and said, "While you may be the best in fighting, you do pretty poor in everything else, so forgive Sion for having one flaw while you have many!" Ren scowled, his paws closing as Harold stepped away, the entrance to the Tower now in front of them.

He stepped up the stairs, opening the door and entering. He held it open, the echoing, muffled voices of Pokemon heard from above. He stepped to the side, bowing with his arm outstretched.

"The Council awaits, young Explorers."

~~~~

Within the Expedition Hall, Gaiden sat in meditation on a green cushion. He had his arms sitting on his knees, his blue bandana over his eyes. He took a deep breath, then exhaled slowly, focusing his mind on nothingness.

On the first floor of the Hall was Team Tri-Attack's special room, marked with a silver plaque. Within, three seats surrounded a circular table, which lay uncovered. Surrounding the table was an armchair and a couch, each being taken up by Wilson and George respectively. Wilson read from an informative book about ice-types in extremely hot and cold environments, while George lay sprawled on the couch, occasionally making a piggish snort. Covering the walls were the requests of completed missions, a testament to the accomplishments of Team Tri-Attack.

Gaiden took another deep breath, feeling a sense of peace that he'd been missing since their last journey. All was quiet, with only the snort of George and the flip of Wilson's book, and the hallways remained silent, most teams being out on new missions. Tri-Attack was taking a break, their streak of completing requests finally finished.

Gaiden took yet another deep breath, his eyes snapping open to their normal squint. Nothing could make this any better.

Thump!

Gaiden twisted his head to the western wall, one of the open areas from the deluge of completed requests. A muffled cry of excitement rose from those on the other side.

Thump!

Wilson looked up from his book, looking toward the wall. "I thought we told them to be quieter," he remarked.

Thump!

George snorted again, rubbing his eyes. He craned his neck upward, his fiery beard dimmed. "Not this game again..." he complained.

Thump!

Wilson shut his book and stood up, tossing it in his former seat. "They're going to break through the wall if they keep doing that.”

Thump!

George rolled off the couch and to the floor, rising unsteadily, still drowsy from his nap. "I was having such a great dream too. Where I was surrounded by roast-Tauros sandwiches and just-"

Thump!

He growled and banged the wall, crying out, "Don't interrupt me!" He stepped away, snapping his fingers. "Drat, now I forgot my dream! Those guys are going to pay!" He stomped toward the door, meeting the imposing Gaiden's face in front of it.

He said in his quiet tone, "I'll take care of it." He whipped around and opened the door, stepping through with a single bound, shutting it behind with only a click. Wilson and George simply sat down, staring at each other, concerned.

Thump!

Wilson shook his head, picking up the book. "Ekon's going to wish he was more careful..."

Thump!

George lay down on the couch once more, shifting the cushions around. "This'll be the last time they play 'Echo-Ball' for a while..."

Thump!

Gaiden stood outside the next door, his eyes shut and arms crossed. He raised one arm, letting it slam against the door three times. The thumping stopped, and the Pokemon within shuffled items within.

"Quick, it’s housekeeping!"

"We can't have them finding out!"

"Be quiet, they're outside!"

After several moments, the exasperated face of Ekonmer Noivern appeared behind the open door, breathing heavily and panting. He opened his mouth and said, "We weren't doing anything Misses--" He stopped himself short, seeing the glaring eyes of Gaiden Greninja instead of the kindly eyes of Misses Cincinno.

Ekon sighed, scratching the back of his head. "You won't tell her, right? The last time she found out I had to help her for a week, and I only did a single round!" Gaiden kept stock still, making the Noivern uneasy.

Gaiden replied, "You know that Wilson, George and I don't appreciate your games of 'Echo-Ball'." He tilted his head, seeing the disaster of Team Aerospace's room.

Piles of paper were scattered over their table, completed requests scattered with open ones. Three straw nests hung by ropes from the ceiling, stuffed with cast-off feathers, fur, and metal. Below, bags of the straw were heaped around the table, acting as surrogate chairs for the three Flying Pokemon. Aaron and Rix were gathered around a bookcase filled with trophies, trying their best to be inconspicuous. To the left of the room, a sloppily painted target with three rings lay emblazoned on the wall.

From the case, a green rubber ball rolled out, gracefully moving toward Ekon, stopping when it bumped against his foot. Ekon sheepishly grinned, picking up the ball. "You know how much fun we have with Echo-Ball! Telling us to quit is like trying to tell you to recite a speech! It just doesn't happen!" He screeched all of a sudden, causing Gaiden to wince, his ears ringing. Ekon covered his mouth, then said, "Sorry, you know it’s a bad habit of mine."

Gaiden sighed, rubbing his temples. "Just don't play anymore; you're going to bust a hole through the wall sometime if you do."

Ekon guffawed, offended. "I'll have you know that this ball has never once blown through a wall! See, I'll prove it!" He turned to the target, throwing the ball into the air. His ears blasted out soundwaves, propelling the ball towards the wall.

Crash!

A hole in the shape of the ball appeared in the wall, the white paint of Team Tri-Attack's room shining through. Wilson could be seen with his jaw hanging open, his claws stopped turning the page midway. George looked up grumpily, staring coldly at the occupants within.

Aaron and Rix hopped away from the case and studied the damaged wall, seeing if anything could be done. George stepped up, grabbing the fallen green ball and rolling his shoulder. "Take back your blazing green menace!" He launched it through the hole, the ball bouncing back and forth in the room. It soared towards Ekonmer's stricken face, the Noivern ducking before contact. Gaiden raised his hand, catching the ball in the air.

Ekon pointed at the hole, saying, "Two things: First, George would make a fantastic Echo-Ball player." The Pokemon in question snorted in reply, stomping back to his couch, grumbling.

Ekon turned back to Gaiden, his claw now pointing at him. "Second: I am very sorry about that." Gaiden threw the ball behind him, then threw a jet of water at it, taking the shape of a throwing star. It pierced the ball, slicing it into two halves, ending the game of Echo-Ball permanently.

Gaiden turned back to the astonished Noivern, crossing his arms again. After giving a cold stare for a moment, he advanced to his own door and entered the room, the door closing with only a click. Ekon growled with indignation, reentering his room and slamming his door.

Gaiden returned to meditation, leaving Wilson and George to continue reading and sleeping, setting the recent events behind them. A yellowed sheet of paper appeared behind the hole, Team Aerospace's attempt to temporarily fix the wall.

From the other side, Aaron Archeops' voice could be heard. "He didn't have to slice our ball! Now we can't play!

Rix squawked, scratching her metallic feathers with her claws. "Why did we have to have them as our neighbors? They're no fun at all!" A rush of wind blew back the paper, showing Ekon resting in his bed of straw, crouching close to the yellow strands.

"I was hoping that we could end up being good pals, but that's obviously not turning out well. Why'd I ever think we could get along? He's strategic, I'm not. He's quiet, I'm loud. I like to play, he likes to sit all day on that ridiculous pillow!" He screamed again, the paper billowing away from the hole, showing Aaron and Rix resting on the beanbags, their faces angry.

Ekon sighed, scratching his ear. "I could never work with Gaiden for the life of me. I don't care what Guildmaster Lukas says, if I ever have to partner up with him, I'll just take suspension. It'd be better than being angry for the rest of my days."

Wilson and George looked up toward Gaiden, who continued to meditate. They remained silent, knowing that Gaiden heard all that Ekon said, and agreed with his every word.

Gaiden thought to himself, "As would I."
 
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The summer awards of BMGF are approaching swiftly, and I will post four more chapters between today and the beginning of the awards. I wish all the other authors here luck to receive an award for their stories, and please help me by sharing reviews! They have been rather scarce lately, and I'm sure they will be vital for fixing up our stories for this special event!

Chapter 09: Guardian Enlistment


Page 42 of the Explorer's Guide: Laryon and Arthus

Laryon Lucario is considered to be one of the most influential Pokemon in the world, reestablishing the Lucario Guild and improving the old Guild system. He also defeated the Usurper Pokemon, Arthus, who wished to eliminate all life in the world and replace it with his own.

Matheus' Notes:

I cannot make light of Laryon or Arthus. I loved both, and while Arthus ended up betraying, that didn't change the fact that he was one I loved...I won't write anything else on this matter.

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Lukas Lucario sat within a circle of seven Pokemon half-listening to the spouting of his assistant Guildmaster, Harold Heliolisk. At the top of the Master's Tower, they and the other five council members--Victor Mienshao, Molly Lopunny, Doug Diggersby, Simeon Slurpuff and Isis Gothitelle--surrounded the tiny Cosma Cosmog, who hovered above a chair within. Lukas' furniture was shoved to the sides of the room, to ensure that they would have enough space to discuss the important matters of Lucario Guild.

"...and so that's why we should send the most elite team we have to investigate the Isles!" Harold finished.

Lukas stood up, holding his paws behind his back. "Yes, thank you Harold. Does anyone wish to add anything?"

Cosma quickly raised an appendage, a cheery grin plastered on her face. "Ooh, ooh, I want to say something!"

Lukas sat down, replying, "Go on."

Cosma hovered higher, exclaiming, "Why not send everybody there? It'd be fun!"

Doug stood up and huffed, stating, "Because we don't have enough boats, that's why. The only guy around that'd take you across the ocean is Frederick, and he don't have the biggest ship in the world.”

Simeon hopped up and asked, "Well, who should they be then? That's enough for an exploration team, right? Let's just send Team Aerospace or Team Tri-Attack! They're the best we have!"

Lukas then said, "While sending the best Pokemon is the obvious course of action, there are other things to consider. The leaders of Team Aerospace and Team Tri-Attack, Ekonmer Noivern and Gaiden Greninja, have been at odds with each other for years. If we send one but not the other, it could only make such a case worse." Victor remained silent, waiting for his opportunity to speak.

Doug then exclaimed, "Then who should we send? Outside of them and another team or two, the Expedition Hall's cleared out! I wouldn't even recommend the other two teams." He shuddered, adding, "Their last missions turned out to be disastrous."

Victor stood up and said suggestively, "Couldn’t we have Pokemon that are not currently part of an Exploration Team?"

Lukas looked at him, considering his statement. "What do you mean by that Victor?"

"I mean that we currently have two young Pokemon who happen to be proficient in my classes, and they could complement each other well, provided they have some guardians to set things straight," Victor replied.

Molly stopped twisting the fur on her ears and said, "You mean Sion and Ren, don't you?" Victor nodded.

Simeon stood on his chair and shouted, "That crazy Lucario nearly killed me! You can't send him! He has no discipline!"

Lukas shook his head standing. "There's no better way to discipline him than to send him on a journey. When I was young, I ventured across Harmonia, trekking across the most vicious terrain you can think of. The Forgotten Isles can't be any worse."

Cosma frowned and stated, "You don't mean things like deserts, frigid mountains and dense jungles, right?"

Lukas turned to her and said, "Why of course I mean that sort of thing."

Cosma laughed nervously and said, "Yeah, my home has places like that. If they're going to help me beat the Ultra Beasts, they'll have to go through that."

Doug stamped his foot and said, "That's another thing. These Ultra Beasts sound like pretty tough customers, and I don't think Sion would be up for that sort of thing."

Victor replied, "Ren will be there, and I'm sure he could fight one of them easily. Whoever supports Sion and Ren going to the Forgotten Isles, say 'aye'."

Victor, Molly and Lukas said, "Aye".

"All opposed, say 'nay'."

Simeon, Doug and Harold said, "Nay."

Harold turned to Lukas and said, "The Isles will be too dangerous for them; I cannot support such a move."



Lukas turned away, motioning to the one Pokemon who had not spoken: Isis Gothitelle. "What do you vote for Isis? Do you see anything for their future?"

Isis had kept her eyes shut, her presence only there in body. She then opened her eyes, and said, "I see many dangers to come, most deadly in some way. The descendants of Laryon and Arthus, although in opposition now, shall come to be companions, and shall restore Legends of old. Beware that five shall be lost, and two shall be taken. To save the Islands of Sun and Moon, the descendants must go, and save Equivos with them." She shut her eyes and said one last word: "Aye." All considered her words, for they were of the future. They knew that the meanings wouldn't be immediately clear, but should be regarded anyways.

Lukas turned to Harold and said, "Fetch Sion and Ren for us. We must see if they are willing to undertake such a task." Harold hesitantly nodded, feeling that this was not a good idea. He then stood from his seat and exited the room, descending the stairs and leaving through the door.

Lukas sighed, saying, "Well, we have our principle adventurers. I wouldn't trust them on their own to do well; they need master explorers to help them. Who should go?"

Doug stood up once more, saying, "Well, we can't have the aforementioned teams that made a disaster of their mission. Really, we should have either Team Aerospace or Team Tri-Attack there with them. Only two more Pokemon can go however; no matter how light Cosma may be, old Fred dislikes having more than six Pokemon on his ship. Has something to do with how teams are built elsewhere or whatever." Doug shrugged, then said, "Point is, only two more can go."

Lukas looked out the window, the Expedition Hall in his sight. He then stood up, beginning his descent down the stairs. "Wait here. I'll get our guardians." The five remaining council members remained in their seats, knowing that their Guildmaster would be able to settle this.

Molly sighed, saying, "Politics bore me, but at least I know Sion will be going on a trip!" She turned to Cosma, who floated nonchalantly in the air, humming to herself. "Do you have any stories to tell?"

~~~~

Lukas shut the door behind him, looking around at his beloved Guild. Pokemon continued their daily duties, whether it be gathering berries, watching family members, or assisting in projects. The lingering topic of Cosma floated throughout, the Cosmog always present in their minds, and coming out in questions.

Lukas looked over to the Dojo, seeing Harold waiting outside. "At least he's doing his job," Lukas remarked. He continued to the Expedition Hall, his leather cloak billowing behind him, the Guildmaster's Seal pulsing with its dim blue light as it bounced on his chest.

He entered the Expedition Hall, the halls quiet and the Chimecho lazing around, their duties unneeded at the moment. He could hear discussion breaking the quiet, coming from the left hallway. He looked down the hall, seeing Gaiden Greninja slicing a green ball. He then proceeded to his room, leaving the irritated Ekon to sulk in his room. Lukas sighed, hoping for a better mood to propose his idea. He strode forward, refusing to let such a petty thing interrupt his goal.

He knocked on the left and right door at the same time, hearing muffled voices behind each. At the same time, Gaiden opened the left, and Ekon opened the right. Lukas stood in the middle, studying first Gaiden, then Ekon.

Ekon bowed slightly, saying, "Guildmaster, this is rather unexpected."

Gaiden bowed as well, adding, "What do you wish?"

Lukas turned to the main gathering hall, proceeding toward it. "Follow me, if you please. Your teammates can stay." Gaiden and Ekon, although curious toward his intentions, exited their rooms and followed him, giving each other a wide berth.

A single large table sat below the viewing dome above, the bright light of the morning sun shining down. Lukas sat at one of the chairs, clasping his paws atop the surface. “I have a proposition for both of you, but it will require you to be open to suggestion and being away from your respective teams. Do you agree to listen?” Ekon and Gaiden nodded, taking chairs to the left and right of Lukas.

The Guildmaster said, “Gaiden, I am correct that you helped bring Cosma here to the Guild?”

Gaiden replied, “Yes. It wasn’t difficult, if you don’t include her irritating personality.”

Lukas nodded, now turning to Ekon. “And you met with them on their way here, correct?”

Ekon nodded, saying, “Right we did. She’s a nice one, but old scarf-tongue didn’t want me and my team to stick around. We had to go flying soon after we met.” Gaiden shut his eyes, pretending not to hear.

Lukas sighed, saying, “You two are the captains of two of the greatest teams in Lucario Guild, and I am proud as a Guildmaster to have you here. Hence why I have a special assignment for you.” He paused, making sure that Ekon and Gaiden were paying attention. They stared intently at their commander, waiting for him to speak.

He cleared his throat and said, “Within the next few days, I will organize a party to go to the Tapu Islands--or as they’re better known, the Forgotten Isles—and return Cosma to her kind. The Guild Council and I debated as to who to send there, and we determined that it should be two young recruits by the names Illusion Zoroark and Auren Lucario.” He held up his paw, sensing that the two would interject. “They aren’t out of Expedition School yet, but they hold promise, and this journey could prove beneficial to their interactions with each other. Despite their abilities, I cannot allow them to go to the Forgotten Isles on their own. Here is my request:” He stood up, gesturing to the two Pokemon. “I ask that both of you go with them to the Forgotten Isles, to protect them and provide guidance, whether it be on dungeon exploration or social interaction. In return, I will make sure you are given a handsome reward, for being guardians and also for exploring the Forgotten Isles.”

Ekon cocked his head, considering the offer. His eyes widened as he processed it, then he slammed the table and exclaimed, “You want me to go with him!” No way!” He pointed at Gaiden with a shaking claw, quivering with anger.

Gaiden gently pushed down the claw, saying, “I don’t think that would be the best idea—for my and Ekon’s sakes.” Ekon pulled back his claw, screaming into the air, his soundwaves reverberating through the hall. The Chimecho squealed with fear, fleeing behind the job boards.

Lukas groaned rubbing his temples. “Must you do that Ekon? You’re a better Pokemon than that.”

Ekon growled, sitting down and snorting. “Excuse me,” he replied, crossing his arms and looking to the ceiling, Lukas sighed, shaking his head.

“I know you two don’t get along too well, what with your differing personalities and your different approaches to exploration. It’s precisely because of that that I want you both to go together. Just as Sion and Ren need to learn to work together, you two must learn that as well. Pokemon who don’t agree with one another work together all the time, so why can’t it be any different now?” Lukas inquired. Ekon kept his arms crossed, staring at Gaiden darkly.

Gaiden ignored him and asked, “Why can’t one of us go with our team? It would save us all a bitter journey.”

Lukas nodded and said, “While that could be done, let me ask you this: which of you would like to be the first to explore the Forgotten Isles?”

Gaiden and Ekon raised their hands simultaneously, saying in chorus, “I would.” They looked at each other and quickly took back their limbs, understanding Lukas’ point.

Lukas pointed at them and said, “Exactly. Both of you want to see what new Pokemon the Isles have to offer, and I’m sure neither of you have qualms with Cosma coming. Right?” Ekon nodded, while Gaiden turned his head, his answer evident.

Ekon sighed and said, “Oh I wouldn’t mind at all. She’s a sweet little thing, even if I hardly know what she is. Gaiden could hardly stand her jabbering, so why not save him the hassle and just send Team Aerospace there?”

Gaiden uncrossed his arms and stood up, pressing against table and leaning towards the Noivern. “Because I cannot trust you with your strategies. You like experimenting in any situation, no matter how serious, and in a treacherous place like the Isles, it is not the time for that to be done!”

Ekon now stood, puffing out his chest. “In the wilds of the Isles, I think experimentation will be needed! They are unexplored territory, and these strategies that have been created for Equivos may not apply! We have to get creative!”

Lukas now stood and pushed Ekon to his eat, then Gaiden. He then sat down himself and stated, “Both are liable ways of going about it. Both of you are unshaking in your beliefs, and I appreciate that. Sion and Ren could learn much from the both of you…especially Ren.” Ekon opened his mouth to scream unintentionally, but clamped his claw over his mouth, his eyes bulging.

Gaiden closed his eyes and said, “We hardly know the two. They’re in Expedition School, and we hardly visit thanks to our duties. Who’s to say we can really get along with them well?”

Lukas swiped his paw, shoving the statement aside. “Sion is a respectable young Zoroark; you’ll get along with him just fine. If you have to worry about anyone, it’ll be Ren. He’s headstrong, loud, and likes resorting to violence to settle issues.”

Gaiden opened an eye and looked at Ekon, saying, “Reminds me of someone I know.”

Ekon slammed the table and jabbed a claw at Gaiden, saying, “That’s what gets me about him! He hardly talks, and whenever he does around me he tries to insult me! I try and be a nice Pokemon and he just sees that as an opportunity to take another jab at me!”

Lukas sighed, rubbing his temples. “This is precisely what we need to work on. You are both adult Pokemon, and I fail to see why you cannot at least tolerate each other. He clasped his paws and set them on the table, saying with warning, “Unless both of you are able to stand each other for the duration of the journey, I’ll have to give the honor of being the first explorers of the Forgotten Isles and guardians of my son to someone else. Preparations are already underway, so make your decision here and now.”

Gaiden and Ekon fought with themselves about what to do. Both thought of what marvelous sights there would be, what fantastic Pokemon live there, and what Cosma’s purpose was in coming here from there. It would be glorious to be the first to go in an unexplored land. All this, on the condition that they be with the Pokemon they loathed.

Ekon groaned inwardly, drawing it out and gritting his teeth. He finally held out a claw to Gaiden and said, “Fine, I’ll do it. We’ll be fellow Pokemon in a quest on the Forgotten Isles, just like friends. Provided, of course, you’re willing to go with my unorthodox methods, constant chattering and occasional scream.” He turned away his head and did the latter, scaring the Chimecho away once more.

Gaiden kept his eyes closed, considering the offer. After a moment, he took Ekon’s claw, nodding. “As long as you can handle my quiet nature, true strategies and want for meditation, by all means go ahead.” Lukas smiled, standing from the table.

“All’s settled then! I’ll let you tell your teammates about the arrangement, then I’ll expect to see you in my Tower. You’ll get acquainted with Sion and Ren there, and we’ll hammer out the details on the expedition,” Lukas said. He then turned to the exit door, his leather cloak billowing behind him.

Ekon turned to Gaiden and grinned, feeling positive about what’s in store. He said while wrapping an arm around the Greninja, “You know, I think we’ll do just fine. How hard can it be to explore some islands and get to know someone at the same time?”

Gaiden crouched underneath his arm, then proceeded to walk to his team’s room. “I’d rather keep it professional,” he said, leaving Ekon to gape.

Ekon growled, then quickly calmed himself, scratching his ear. He said to himself as he followed Gaiden, “Right, keep it professional. We’ll see how that goes.” They went on to explain the situation to their respective team members, who were proud to see their leaders go on to see the Isles, sad that they couldn’t come, and furious that the other leader had to come as well.

George fumed and exclaimed, “That Noivern better control his tongue. In a place like that, you never know what sort of dangers could be waiting for a talkative dessert.”

On the other side of the wall, Aaron stated, “If Gaiden ends up getting in trouble, he’ll probably keep his tongue wrapped around himself rather than tell you he needs help.”

Qualms such as these continued for several minutes, until the two felt that enough negative feeling were shared about the team who could hear on the other side of the wall. They then left their rooms, walking together one after the other, but leaving words unsaid, progressing toward the Master’s Tower to meet their charges.
 
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I will make note that I will not be able to post a chapter come Wednesday. With summer vacations and all that, it should be expected that I should have at least one day I have to skip. Don't worry though; I will try to post the next chapter by Monday morning. If not, then by next Saturday.
Chapter 10: Joining Stories

Excerpt of Page 63 of the Explorer’s Guide: Forgotten Tales

There lies hundreds of tales, deep in the past of Equivos. Many lie in a mysterious region known as the Forgotten Isles. Others exist in long-ago locations within the three continents. Some of these tales have never been uncovered, such as the separation of the Tapu Islands, the mystery of Solgaleo and Lunala, and various others. Exploration teams strive to find these stories to better understand the history of our region.

Matheus’ Notes:

Unfortunately, a good share of these forgotten tales stays within my head, many too horrible to ever consider writing down. Some include the terrors of the Sala-Bandits, the lost love of Jynx, and the reason my fur went grey years ago. Wait…only one of those is too horrible to mention…never mind…

----------

“We’re what?” Sion exclaimed, astonished. He and Ren stood in the center of the Guild Council, their escort, Harold, now sitting in his own.

Victor grinned and said, “You heard me right. You’re going to the Tapu Islands!” Sion laughed nervously, finding the truth difficult to believe.

Ren grinned, raising a paw and cracking his knuckles. “So that means we get to go somewhere where we can really show what we’re made of?”

Harold nodded, sighing. “Yes, the Tapu Islands would be a good place. Against my better judgement, and several others here, we voted to send both of you to the Isles. Before anything else should be said, the Pokemon you will be bringing there should say why she’s here.” He turned to Cosma, who hovered outside the circle, snoring gently. Harold furrowed his brow, clearing his throat to catch her attention.

She opened her eyes slowly, then looked around drowsily. Harold pointed to the circle, then she hopped up, hovering over the Heliolisk’s head. She stopped in front of Ren, making a cheer, holding out one of her arms. “Hi! My name’s Cosma! What’s yours?”

Ren looked up and down at the being, shaking her arm warily. “The name’s Ren. What are you exactly?”

Cosma hovered away, putting herself into a dramatic pose. “I’m a Cosmog, and I can do…I can do…” She dropped the pose and looked to the ground thinking. “I’m not really sure what I can do, to be honest.” She rebounded and smiled once more, saying, “But the Kommo-o Clan always said I was special!” She hovered to Sion, holding her arm out as she did with Ren. “What’s your name?”

Sion took it appreciatively, glad to finally meet the mysterious Cosmog. “My name’s Illusion, but everyone always calls me Sion.”

Cosma floated higher, laughing. “Nice to meet you Sion, and you too Ren!”

Harold cleared his throat once more, Cosma turning back to the assistant. He then said, “These two will be your escorts to the Isles, but I think it would be wise to tell them what you told us; they weren’t around for the first time you know.”

Cosma lost her light-heartedness, turning somber and reserved. “Oh…right.” She spun toward Sion and Ren, tucking her arms behind her back. “I guess I better tell you about my home…Bulu, Lele, Koko, and Fini.” She took a deep breath, the atmosphere in the room becoming heavier.

“The Tapu Islands are what you guys call the Forgotten Isles, but I can never see them like that. Each one is beautiful, and I can’t see why anyone would forget them. I see many Pokemon here that I never saw at my home, and I would love to see how many different ones there are. But I have to go back, not just for my love for them, but also because of some terrible things that are happening there.

“Just like there are here, there are Wild Pokemon and Civilized Pokemon. While most live in peace, there are a few that didn’t get along, ones that like to do terrible things to other civilized Pokemon. But most of the time we’re friends, and we don’t both each other all that much. One day though, they became way more aggressive, and there were constant attacks to my home tribe, the Kommo-o Tribe. It became dangerous to go outside the caves, and things only got worse from there.

“Storms began to come more, with thunder, lightning and wind, but no rain. Some of those storms last for days, and it wasn’t until several days ago that we discovered why they began coming, and why the Wild Pokemon were growing angry. It’s the same reason I came here on the beach with bits of wood instead of a boat: The Ultra Beasts.

“The Ultra Beasts are not Pokemon like us. They come a strange dimension called Ultra Space, and the seven of them come through what they call Ultra Wormholes. Their names are Nihilego, Buzzwole, Pheromosa, Xurkitree, Kartana, Celesteela, and Guzzlord, and all of them are bad. The wormholes they make stir the clouds and charge them with unnatural power, and this same power goes into the wild Pokemon to make them more fearful and aggressive.

“The Ultra Beasts want the beauty of my home, the Tapu Islands, with the Ultra Space. They also know there are other lands past the Islands, such as this one. But they can’t stay here for long, because the same energy that disrupts us keeps them strong, and so they have to go back after a while. So, they want to combine Ultra Space with our home, and they even offered to live in harmony with us.

“The Beast named Pheromosa told us all of that, and she promised that if we go along with their plans, we’ll live peacefully with them. That didn’t sit well with our Chief or the other leaders around the islands, and they denied them, saying that we liked our world just how it was. After that, the Ultra Beasts began attacking us, and the Kommo-o Tribe began to struggle.

“One day, my chief came out with a prophecy that went something like this: ‘When beasts not of Arceus come from the heavens, the children of the sun and moon shall ascend the peaks of the Guardian Spirits, and forever close the gateways of their strange land.’ He said that I was one of the children of the sun and moon, and that I had to ascend Mount Lune to fulfill the prophecy, and my brother, Cosmo, had to go up Mount Sol. Both were on Fini Island, while we lived on Bulu Island.

“While we were making preparations, the Ultra Beasts figured out our plans. They didn’t want to have the cold and dark Ultra Space forever; they wanted the warmth of the Islands with them. They knew they had to stop me and Cosmo from climbing the mountains, so they wanted to capture us.

“The Kommo-o Tribe had separated me and Cosmo, giving him to another good tribe, the Passimians, that way they could focus their efforts on preparing me for the trip to Mount Lune. The Ultra Beast attacks were growing more frequent, and the wild Pokemon continued to bother us. One time they got close to bringing me to the Ultra Space, and that was when they knew that we needed outside help.

“They prepared a boat, and had me go on it, knowing that I should be the one to tell them our story. For one, it would give the Kommo-o Tribe rest; if I wasn’t there with them, what was the point of attacking? I was nearly ready to go when the Ultra Beasts came through another one of their wormholes.”

Cosma shuddered, shutting her eyes. “It made such a horrible sound. The thing is unnatural, a forceful rip through the dimensions, and the Ultra Beasts should never have come. But they did, and they warned the Kommo-o to surrender me or suffer the consequences. They refused, and the largest of them all, Buzzwole, attacked.

“Our island guardian, Tapu Bulu, came to save us, and he threw him back into the Ultra Wormhole. He didn’t do it before my boat got destroyed, and I was lost to the waves. The last thing I saw was the comforting face of another guardian, Tapu Fini, as she pushed me through the sea.”

Cosma sighed fitfully, fighting back tears. “After that I ended up on the beach, and later Team Tri-Attack found me. They can tell you about how I got here the rest of the way.” She pouted, then said, “I don’t know what the Ultra Beasts have done since then, but I know that they won’t stop until they have both me and my brother. I have to go up Mount Lune and do whatever I have to do to stop them.” She looked at Sion and Ren with crestfallen eyes and said, “I can’t go there by myself. The Kommo-o can’t help me anymore, and the few good tribes that are there are having a hard enough time with the Wild Pokemon. That’s why I came here.” She fell silent, and drifted out of the circle, leaving Sion and Ren to consider their true reason for going.

Harold stood up, holding his arms behind his back. “In the absence of Guildmaster Lukas, I will detail your mission. Both Illusion Zoroark and Auren Lucario will go to the Tapu Islands to escort Cosma Cosmog to the top of Mount Lune, along the way finding the location of her brother, Cosmo Cosmog, and bringing him to Mount Sol. The assailants known as the Ultra Beasts shall try to stop you, but take every measure to ensure they don’t take Cosma or Cosmo.” He leered at them both and said, “If both of you complete this assignment, you will formally graduate from the Expedition School and shall be assigned Exploration Teams, then you shall begin full service in Lucario Guild. As for you Ren,” He cleared his throat half-heartedly and said, “Lukas and I have decided that if you should return with your mission completed, you will no longer serve detention and you will be initiated as Guildmaster once Lukas retires.” Ren beamed at the announcement, grinning widely.

Sion, while excited about the turn of events, asked, “Don’t you think that’s a bit…much, for the two of us to do? I mean, we haven’t even gone into a Mystery Dungeon yet.”

Harold nodded and said, “You are correct, it is a lot we are asking of you. Our Guildmaster is currently retrieving two senior explorers to go with you that way you may continue to be taught, and have first-hand experience in how to handle Mystery Dungeons.” He then added, “Just remember that you have to do this together, as a team. The mission will surely fail unless you overcome your differences and use them to your advantage.”

Ren at first remained calm, but as he processed what Harold said, his eyes widened and he suddenly exclaimed, “But why do I have to work with Sion?

Harold shrugged, saying, “I’m sorry to say that you have no choice in the matter. Both of you are talented Pokemon, and we are sure that you can do this well. More importantly, however, this will give you a chance to work together in a more practical setting; unless you do, you’re going to either starve, be eaten, die of exposure, the list goes on. I’m sure that the two senior explorers can attest to-“

“Stop giving me a hard time you amphibian!”

Harold cut himself short, then turned away, holding his palm across his face. “I stand corrected,” he muttered. A dark shape flew up the stairwell, revealing himself to be Ekon, fleeing away from the second individual, the black Greninja, Gaiden.

“All I say is the truth; why do you take it so harshly?” Gaiden asked in his quiet voice. Behind him was the stoic figure of Lukas Lucario, his face showing patience worn thin.

He held out his arm and announced, “Meet who will accompany you, Gaiden Greninja, leader of Team Tri-Attack, and Ekonmer Noivern, captain of Team Aerospace.”

Ekon quickly calmed when he saw Cosma, flapping toward her and taking her arm. “Pleased to meet you again, Miss Cosma. I am glad to announce that I will be joining you on the way to the Forgotten Isles.” His grin faded as he pointed behind him and said, “I am not pleased to announce that Gaiden the Snarky will be joining us.” Gaiden said nothing, giving only a suspicious glare.

Ekon turned to Ren, taking his paw and shaking it. “You must be the Guildmaster’s son, Ren. I’ve heard that you’re a good fighter! I’d ask you to demonstrate, but I’d rather keep the Tower in one piece if you catch my drift.” Ren, despite the fury he felt at Sion’s coming, felt welcome be Ekon’s presence, and felt he would get along well with him.

Ekon then came to Sion, rubbing his chin in thought. “And last but not least, Sion Zoroark, the Brainiac in Victor’s class. I’ve heard good things, and not so good things about you…” He kept his face neutral, leaving Sion to wonder what his true message was.

He left Sion feeling uncomfortable, then made a big grin and shook his claw, saying, “I don’t care about all that ancestry business, you’re an alright Pokemon in my book if Lukas keeps you here!” Sion wanted to give his thanks, but the eccentric Noivern strode off to the rest of the guild council to give his regards, one of his few opportunities to do so thanks to his trade.

Lukas nudged Gaiden’s arm, saying, “Come on, introduce yourself. You’ll be with them for a long time, and I certainly don’t want them trusting someone blindly.” Gaiden rolled his eyes, then came to Ren, holding out his hand.

Ren took it, cocking his head. “Aren’t most Greninja blue?” He asked.

“Yes, but I happen to have a rare coloring. Pokemon over at Alakazam Guild call this ‘Shiny Disorder’, but I disagree. There’s nothing shiny about my skin,” Gaiden replied. He took back his hand and said, “I hope you don’t end up being like Ekon; he might be friendly, but he has certain traits I’d rather not have.”’

Ren looked at him suspiciously and asked, “Like what?”

Ekon screeched uncontrollably, causing Molly to pull away the paw that lay in his. Ekon quickly clamped his hands over his mouth, muffling the habit. After the feeling subsided, he grinned sheepishly and explained, “I don’t have the best eyesight, so I yell sometimes. Echolocation and all that.”

Gaiden sighed silently, shaking his head. “There’s more, I assure you,” he added. Leaving Ren to wonder about their new companion, Gaiden stepped toward Sion and held out his hand, just as he did with Ren.

Sion eagerly shook it, saying, “I’ve heard so much about you and Ekon. Is it true that you really rescued a whole village of Furret by eliminating a gang of outlaw Mightyena?”

Gaiden smiled slightly and replied, “Yes, with my companions, George Emboar and Wilson Sceptile. I try to not take much pride in my work; I’m only doing the duty of Lucario Guild after all.” He slowly took his hand back from the ecstatic Zoroark, adding, “I’m not one for long discussions, or discussions period, but I might make an exception if you don’t persist like Ekon does.” Ekon’s ears twitched as he said that, the owner’s eyes looking to the Greninja irritably.

Sion nodded, looking over to Cosma. She hovered in the center, the thoughts of her tale still lingering in her mind. He remembered the Ultra Beasts, and wondered why they were set on binding Ultra Space with Equivos? There had to be more than simply beauty involved…right?

He walked to her and sat on the floor, the other Pokemon talking about various subjects involving the expedition. She turned to him, remaining silent for a moment, then she said, “I want to go home, but at the same time I don’t. I don’t want to know if the Ultra Beasts have already done something there…”

Sion thought for a moment, wondering what to say. He blinked, then said, “The Islands are past the Mist Wall, right?” She nodded. “They are still part of Equivos, so if anything happened there, wouldn’t we notice it here?”

She looked up, realization coming to her face. “I had some glimpses of Ultra Space from their wormholes. It is cold, and the very sight makes your insides twist. The trees, rocks and oceans there are not like ours, and the very air makes you feel wrong simply being there.” She smiled, looking around her, seeing the sun hovering to the west with its soft yellow glow. “I guess nothing’s really happened yet then. The world is still how it is after all.”

Sion wrapped an arm around her, comforting her. “We’ll do fine. I might not be the best fighter, but Ren is the greatest I know. It’s a shame he’s so…arrogant.” He looked over to the Lucario, who spoke with Ekon and laughed, finding a Pokemon he wouldn’t mind being with. Sion turned back to Cosma and said, “I don’t like him all that much right now, but I think he’ll be better, if only a little. And besides, we have Ekon and Gaiden. What could go wrong?”

The two sat in the center as discussion extended to the evening, subjects such as supplies, travel, and potential dangers surfaced. Cosma was constantly brought into these talks, as she was the only one with knowledge of the Forgotten Isles. Sion began to speak with his few friends in Lucario Guild, such as Victor and Molly, giving his thoughts about the journey to the Isles.

As he spoke, one thought overarched all: “I want to succeed, I want to be great. I want to be one of the greatest explorers in Equivos, and I can do it by being the first to explore the Forgotten Isles. I will prove myself as more than the descendent of Arthus; I will not let myself fall that route. I loathe Ren for what Pokemon he is now, and I don’t hold much faith in him to change; but despite his personality, I think we can work together to bring Cosma to Mount Lune.”
 
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Here is an early chapter for you all, as I am leaving on my campout later today! See you again on Saturday!
Chapter 11: The Great Departure


Excerpt of Page 72 of the Explorer’s Guide: Berries

Berries have been in existence as long as Pokemon have. While there are many different varieties of berry, the predominant types involve recovering from statues conditions, to provide healing abilities to Exploration teams. Some kinds are developed for flavor in cooking. Both types can be found on the ground in Mystery Dungeons or on bushes outside of them.

Matheus’ Notes:

Berries are a fantastic creation of our beloved Arceus. Oran berries are sweet, Cheri tart, Pecha sweet, Chesto a strange mix. One I tried just the other day was so spicy I had to take a swim and let off steam. What was it called…ah yes, a Tamato berry! Never again.

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Evening stretched to night, and after their day of council, all returned to their homes. Students enjoyed their talks of the day, Chimecho enjoyed their day off, and healers were relieved that there were no injuries. The council members started to set straight their places of work, and the five expeditioners returned to their homes to get ready for their journey.

Ren slammed the door to his room, running to his closet and pulling open the door. A flood of various goods poured from it, burying the young Lucario in items. A muffled voice came from it, then a cry of exclamation, a black fist thrusting out a knapsack. He pulled himself out of the pile, looking inside the sack.

Inside was an inscription, written in spidery letters. ‘For a Riolu who wants to see the world, from a mother who wishes to fulfill his dreams.’ He sighed, looking up to the ceiling with a longing smile.

“I’ll do this…for you and dad,” he said to himself. His smile quickly turned to a frown as he added, “And not for that Sion. I’m not doing this just so I can be friends with someone related to a monster. He’ll turn out just as bad as him, even if he’s a nice guy right now.” He began to pull items from the pile, ranging from Orbs to Seeds to Wands all necessities for a journey through the Forgotten Isles.

~~~~

Gaiden entered his room, saying to his teammates, “Get a pack ready; I’ll be leaving by tomorrow.”

Wilson stared incredulously at him, asking, “Are you serious? That soon?”

Gaiden nodded. “Lukas will be sending word to Frederick to come to the shore, and we don’t want to keep him waiting; we want to make it across the ocean to the Forgotten Isles as quickly as possible,” he explained.

George got up from his couch and saluted, pulling on a rope connected to the floor. He descended the ladder within, his fiery beard lighting his way down. “I’ll make sure to pack extra food; ocean journeys like that are long, tiring, and tasteless.”

On the other side of the wall, Ekon hung on the ceiling and turned a key, pushing open a trapdoor. He crawled inside, chuckling to himself. “Good thing we signed up the room above as ‘Team Landscape—Out until blue moon.’ We have everything we’d ever need up there!”

Aaron yawned in his nest, scratching his tail feathers. “Do you really have to do this now? It’s time for sleep.” Rix Skarmory snored contentedly in her own nest, being careful not to scratch her metallic frame.

Ekon hung from above with a bundle of wands in his claw, glaring at his companion. “Two things: First, I’m so full of energy I hardly get sleep, at least that’s what my mama said. Second, if I’m leaving tomorrow then I need to get everything ready for the trip; I’m going to need plenty of supplies if I’m going to a distant island.” He crawled back inside, throwing down a backpack specially designed for his winged arms. The elastic straps stretched across his arms, then tightened snugly across his back, making it perfect for the Noivern.

Aaron yawned again and tucked his head into his wings, saying, “Whatever. I’ll see ya in the morning.” Ekon and Gaiden continued through the night preparing their bags, knowing that unexplored territory can bring unexpected dangers, and that one should always be ready for them.

~~~~

Cosma sat on top of the Master’s Tower, looking to the east. She knew nothing about exploring; the Kommo-o Tribe made sure that she never needed to do it. She expected her four guardians to help her with such matters, and so she waited for her favorite sight to return to the night sky.

Gradually, the moon came once more, and Cosma sighed longingly. “How I’d love to be the moon, watching everything from the sky. I’d love that so much.” She continued watching the moon through the night, gazing at the whiteness of the moon enveloping her and the rest of Lucario Guild.

~~~~

Harold handed a rolled-up piece of paper to a Zubat, who nodded and screeched agreeably. He flew out the window, and Harold closed it after him, rubbing his head. “Why do we have to have so many bats around this place? Ekon is enough on his own!” He finished soothing his pained head. He ascended the stairwell, seeing Lukas once again standing with his arms cross behind his back, the master watching vigilantly over his people.

Harold stood next to him, his head just under Lukas’ shoulder. “I sent the message to Frederick. Klee should be able to find him within Cretea, and he should be on the coast within a few days or so,” Harold announced. His Guildmaster nodded slightly, continuing to watch whatever was on the ground.

Harold looked down and saw Sion Zoroark standing outside the Inn, looking up at the Tower. He left soon after, entering the Azure Inn. Harold sighed, shaking his head. “I still don’t think it was the best idea to be sending two students instead of full-fledged team members. They could be killed on the Isles!”

“They will do just fine. Both are good in their own right, and I am confident that they will do better than Pokemon who are set in their ways,” Lukas replied.

Harold turned away, putting his arms in the air irritably. “But the Ultra Beasts! We haven’t even seen them! How can we know that they won’t rid us of two bright minds?” Harold exclaimed.

Lukas swiftly spun around and thrust a finger at the Heliolisk, glaring at him. “I have already decided Harold. Ever since I have been Guildmaster, and ever since you’ve been my assistant, have I ever disappointed you with my leadership?” He inquired.

Harold looked up, avoiding the gaze of his superior, and shook his head, stepping away. “No…no you haven’t. But Ultra Beasts aside, Sion and Ren hardly get along with each other, almost for no reason…and it’s all focused on Ren’s view of Sion,” Harold replied.

Lukas stepped back, looking to the ground, the Arc of Arceus glowing in the moonlight. “It’s because of Sion’s lineage. I have done some research on his ancestors, and aside from Erik, all of them have turned for the worse in some way, his father included. I don’t know the full reason for their turnings, or why Corinne may have come here, but I do know that Ren senses that sort of future in Sion. Lucarios are wielders of Aura, and through it we can know the thoughts of others, and in some cases, their futures.”

Lukas turned to the window, closing his eyes. “I sense a young Pokemon with great desires, one of the utmost ones being a want for acceptance. I have tried to create an atmosphere where he can be welcome, but still other Pokemon fear him for who he has come from. Ren may be arrogant, stubborn, and unfit to be Guildmaster, but he may be right in being distrustful of Sion…partly. No future is set, and none more so than Sion’s. Aura can only tell part of the story, and I believe that while Sion has the potential to be no better than his relatives, he has the potential to be one of the greatest Pokemon we have ever seen, rivalling even Laryon Lucario in the good works he does.” He stopped, watching his Guild in silence.

Harold stood still, his eyes closed and his breathing quiet. He took a deep breath, then exhaled slowly. “I will not argue with you Lukas. Sion may be a wild card, and Ren may be worse for wear, but they are both great students, and I dearly hope they can last out there.” He chuckled slightly and added, “Who knows? Maybe Ren will finally change his ways out there, just as you did on Harmonia.”

Lukas turned away from the window, moving to his bedside. He looked up, and with a smile he said, “I expect it.”

~~~~

Sion looked within his closet, sighing. His mother stood alongside him, setting her claws on his shoulders, smiling softly.

“I know we don’t have much, but it’s better than nothing right?” Corinne stated. Alongside the two bags and the bundle of Petrify Wands was a new stash of berries and a bag of assorted Seeds, the latest additions of her daily shopping.

Sion shrugged, walking inside the closet. “I wasn’t really sure what to expect. To think that my birthday would end up like this…” Corinne took his arm and turned him to her, looking kindly into his eyes.

“Just be grateful you’re even going! I’m so proud that you’ll be helping a Pokemon in need, and so many more with her!” She said. She took back her claw and set it to her lips, saying, “I wonder how that Cosma will look like when she’s older? She’s cute now, but you can’t help but wonder.”

Sion took the empty bag, leaving the other with the dust on the shelf. He began stuffing what supplies he had in the satchel, saying to Corinne, “Are you sure I’ll be fine out there? All on my own? I haven’t been outside the guild for twelve years!”

Corinne stepped aside as Sion came out of the closet, taking a backwards step into it. “You won’t be by yourself. You’ll have cute little Cosma, and two of the greatest explorers we have, Gaiden Greninja and Ekonmer Noivern!”

Sion added with a frown, “And Ren Lucario, the one Pokemon who truly hates me. Yeah, great company.”

Corinne stepped farther into the closet, picking up the second bag. “You can’t say that one rotten apple will spoil the whole barrel of fun! Imagine! Four islands in the middle of the ocean, with crowds of good wild Pokemon and welcoming natives! What a dream!”

Sion closed the bag with the buttons attached, looking at his mother incredulously. “With many of them wanting to kill me, and a group of aliens that want to take their islands into their own dimension! Why are you not worried for me?” he stated, feeling a tinge of lightheartedness in Corinne.

She opened the bag in her claws and stepped out of the closet, saying, “Because I know that you will do great out there, just as your distant great uncle did.” She pulled out a square of brown fabric, holding it by the corner. Sion looked up, seeing a strange piece of clothing.

It was a long brown cloak, complete with a hood and clasp. It extended to the ground to the top of Corinne’s head, being able to envelop her whole body. Below the hood was a metal clip, designed to keep he cloak in place around the neck of the wearer. Inside the cloak was a series of pockets, able to be easily reached when needed. The outside was pressed with a variety of faded designs, and at the bottom the fabric had notches through it.

Sion set the satchel on the ground, the buttons unclasped. Corinne held it out to him, letting him pull it from her claws. He traced his fingers over the cloak, marveling at the workmanship.

“The last time I wore it was twelve years ago, when I brought you here. It was a cold, stormy night, and your father, Sevo, had left it behind when he went to his next job, where he passed away. I took it, knowing that the cloak of Ferrick Zoroark, brother of Arthus, would be of great use…to you when you were grown,” Corinne explained. Sion looked at her thankfully, and quickly embraced her, the cloak in his claws. She smiled, and after a moment she pushed her away, pointing at the cloak. “Put it on, and let’s see how it fits.”

~~~~

In the morning, the citizens of Lucario Guild stood in front of the front gate, waiting for the adventurers to the Forgotten Isles. The five Council members had announced that the expedition would begin today, and all Pokemon wanted to say their farewells to the lucky Pokemon who went; they had no idea who they would be.

The door to the Master’s Tower swung open, and the distinct creak caught the attention of all Pokemon who lay in wait. Harold stepped down the stairs, wearing his newly polished silver necklace of office. He looked at the crowd, then at the door, then back at the crowd.

“I know the squeak is bad, but we don’t need all of you to tell us about it!” He yelled. He stepped off the stairs, a small grin on his face, allowing Guildmaster Lukas Lucario to step down the stairs after him, wearing his cloak, hat and pendant, the latter still glowing a soft blue. In his paws was his third symbol of office, the staff of Matheus Lucario, the ancient length of wood hardened with age.

He looked across the crowd, seeing that many wanted to see their adventurers go. He held his staff in the air and exclaimed, “Pokemon of Lucario Guild! You have come here today to watch the expedition to the Forgotten Isles begin, and so it shall! Our first Pokemon is new to our Guild, a foreigner from a distant land: Cosma Cosmog, representative of the Tapu Islands.” Cosma hovered out from the tower, yawning and rubbing her eyes with her arms.

“I want to sleep some more. Can this wait till tomorrow?” She asked. Lukas smiled to himself, a roar of approval coming from the crowd. He strode across the ground, marching through the crowd to the front gate. Harold followed behind him, carrying the drowsy Cosmog along with him.

The three now stood in front of the gate, and the crowd fell silent once more as Lukas held his staff up. He looked past the tower, seeing two Pokemon approaching, each with two Pokemon following behind them. Lukas then announced, “Two of Cosma’s companions will be Pokemon who are beloved by their teammates and by the Guild, for their heroic deeds and their kind works. Please thank Gaiden Greninja and Ekonmer Noivern for accepting this honor!” The crowd cheered as Team Tri-Attack pushed their way through, with Gaiden wearing a backpack across his back. Team Aerospace flew over them and landed next to Team Tri-Attack in the center, Ekon wearing his special elastic pack. Their teammates saluted, then meshed into the crowd, joining their cheers.

Ekon waved his claws, saying, “Thank you, thank you, and thank you, for always being there for me!” He let out an excited screech, then quickly shut his mouth, sheepishly waving to the crowd. Gaiden only looked on, making a satisfied smile as the Pokemon of Lucario Guild praised him.

They stood next to Cosma as Lukas held up his staff once more, seeing another shape coming from the Expedition Hall. He began to run, and Lukas said, “Our next Pokemon is well-liked by the guild for his impressive fighting abilities and his great pride in being the next Guildmaster. My son, Auren Lucario, is going as well!” The Lucario leaped over the crowd and landed in front of the three other adventurers, holding out his paws in a dramatic pose. He grinned, then the crowd cheered once more, for the beloved descendant of Laryon Lucario, who wore the knapsack of his favored origin.

Lukas looked in surprise at the sack as Ren stood alongside Cosma and the others, recognizing the craftsmanship. He quickly corrected himself as the faded view of the last journeyer came from the inn, alongside another wishing farewell. He held his staff for the final time, causing the crowd to go silent once again.

He set it on the ground, leaning on it with a darkened expression. “Your last adventurer is one who I am disappointed to see not gain respect in our Guild. His lineage sets him apart from others, yet whenever he speaks to those few who welcome him, he is nothing but a ray of light. He is the best in his class despite these disadvantages, and I’m sure that our founders would have welcomed him alongside them had he been there with them. Please, say a welcoming good-bye to our final Pokemon, Illusion Zoroark, descendant of Erik!” The air next to him shimmered, and a brown-cloaked Zoroark appeared, smiling weakly and holding his claw up in hello. At the fringe of the crowd Corinne Zoroark appeared, holding her paws to her chest as she saw her son go. Molly Lopunny and Victor Mienshao stood in front as well, standing alongside Corinne and waving to Sion. Otherwise, the crowd made an uncomfortable silence.

Sion, while glad to see his few friends there for him, was saddened by the lack of support from the rest of the Guild. After twelve years, he expected more, at the very least a goodbye for a journey that he may not come back from. And he received nothing.

He lowered his head and pulled his hood over him, looking to Lukas and nodding. Lukas then announced, “These five shall go to the Forgotten Isles, otherwise known as the Tapu Islands, and assist Cosma in her quest to ascend Mount Lune. We say farewell to you all, and may the light of Arceus ever guide you.” Gaiden and Ekon began to push the gates, and the five adventurers began their exit through them. The crowd cheered for them once more, for all but Sion, the gate now swinging closed.

Before the gate shut, Sion saw the comforting face of his mother through the crack, seeing her say one last thing before it shut:

“I love you.”
 
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Sorry that I haven't posted any new chapters; I got back home from a campout Thursday night, and since then I've just been getting other parts of my life back to usual. I can promise you that a new chapter will be posted by the 14th, but I am sad to say that I am not sure that it will be considered for the Awards. Thanks for being patient.
 
After a delayed response, here's an early chapter for you all, and guess what, another one's coming tomorrow (hopefully)! Also, in preparation for the Summer Awards, I have finally gotten around to revising the chapters of PMDLU and PMDFI. It's reliant on my brother, however, as he's helping me catch all the small mistakes scattered in the chapters. Hopefully I can have it all done by Monday!
Chapter 12: Origins and Beginnings

Excerpt of Page 68 of the Explorer’s Guide: Mystery Dungeons

Mystery Dungeons are a defining characteristic of Equivos; they generate the various Dungeon Items for use in Exploration, and help control the population of Wild Pokemon for us. Despite these benefits, it is dangerous exploring them, with not only the Wild Pokemon to fear, but also the threat of being lost when the Dungeon changes at night.

Matheus’ Notes:

Without Mystery Dungeons, the Guild system and the Exploration Teams wouldn’t exist, as they live to scavenge dungeons and save the souls within them. Without the Dungeons, Equivos is quite small, and I doubt it would have the same thrill. Like nearly getting killed because of a beautiful sunset.

~~~~

The gates of Lucario Guild receded behind the expedition as they entered the exit of the Founder’s Canyon, the eight statues within standing guard. Swablu made their daily journey across the sky, filling the air with a cacophony of wondrous tweets. The sun had yet to appear over the canyon walls, only appearing as a coming orange light to the Pokemon of Lucario Guild.

Ekon scratched his chest, studying the darkened tunnel that led from the Mystery Dungeon itself. “Past the Canyon there’s another dungeon not too far off that will lead us directly to the coast: The Elusive Woods. It will be quick enough to get there, thanks to the exit spitting us out at the entrance, but it’ll still take time to get there.” Sion and Ren were only half-listening, their eyes focused on the Founder’s statues.

Ren looked upon the twin statues of Matheus and Laryon Lucario, their likenesses uncanny and practically impossible to differentiate if it weren’t for the Guildmaster’s Seal around Laryon’s neck, and the difference in expressions between them. Matheus had a joyous smile as he welcomed new Pokemon into the Guild, while Laryon held a solemn expression on his face, warning all that he would guard this place with his life. The Lucarios were the central figure of Lucario Guild, and Ren hoped he could be as they were.

Sion studied the lone Zoroark standing to the left of the exit, along with his companion Lucario to the right. They looked at each other with loving eyes, apparent even with the details worn and they held their arms out to each other over the exit. The Zoroark had the same cloak as Sion did, the one remnant of the statue’s model, Ferrick Zoroark, and his wife, Azure Lucario, sister of Matheus and aunt to Laryon.

Sion wondered what ever happened to Ferrick’s line. Surely there could be another family of Zoroarks or Lucario related to the Pokemon who saved dozens of young Pokemon from a disastrous flood? Regardless of their fate, Ferrick was living proof alongside Erik Zoroark that not all the Zoroarks in Equivos were terrible, even if they were related to the Usurper, Arthus.

He sighed, paying no attention to Gaiden and Ekon’s intense discussion as to whether or not they should enter the Elusive Woods. He was now on his first journey, to save the Tapu Islands from disaster through a purple blob known as a Cosmog. He had never been through a Mystery Dungeon, a task usually saved for the final leg of graduation from Expedition School. How could he be expected to fight Ultra Beasts and protect Cosma?

He stirred from his thoughts as Ren and the others finally decided on a course of action: going through the Elusive Woods. Ekon and Gaiden entered first, the senior explorers showing no hesitation going into the dark mist. They could no longer be seen after several steps within.

Cosma turned to Sion and Ren, floating backwards into the exit. “This’ll be fun, I can just feel it!” She disappeared as Gaiden and Ekon did, saying in a fading tone, “See, I don’t feel…” Her words lay unfinished.

Ren turned to Sion, finally feeling alone. He jabbed a paw at him and said, “Don’t think that I’ll be so nice to you. I’m only in because I want to be Guildmaster after Dad’s all done, and that’s it. Got it?” Sion nodded quickly, even if he didn’t agree with his companion’s motivations.

Ren turned back to the mist and took a deep breath. “This shouldn’t be too bad, right?” He asked.

Sion shrugged, replying, “I’ve never been through an Exit before, so how should I know?” He didn’t really want to go through the mysterious mist, but he figured that now was as good a time as any to get used to the strange, unworldly nature of Mystery Dungeons.

Ren looked to Sion and replied, “Well I won’t be as scared as you are. Cosma went in just fine, so why shouldn’t it be like that for us?” He stepped in, hesitantly at first, then with more confidence as the mist caused him to fade from view.

Sion looked back to the gate, the great wooden doors preventing any from entering or exiting, the few berry workers simply flying over the walls. He already felt a longing to return to the safety of the Guild, even if he hadn’t truly left it. This mission almost felt too massive for him, and he felt as if Harold’s position on things was the right way to follow.

He swiftly turned away, shaking his head. He was selected for this, and if the Guild Council thought he was good enough, he was. He marched into the fog, feeling the heavy mist envelop him, and the brightness behind him receding. A light appeared in front of him, and after mere moments of walking, he appeared at the other side, the walls of the Founder’s Canyon starting just behind him.

The canyon gave way to a small field, then a gradually thickening forest, the Elusive Woods hiding within. The sun could be seen to the east, poking above the sea of trees. Various bird calls could be heard within and above the woods, the Pokemon carefully avoiding the path to the canyon made by the civilized.

Sion looked behind him, seeing the path end midway through the entrance to the canyon, marking where the Mystery Dungeon closed behind them. He turned back to Gaiden and Ekon, who continued to discuss exploration plans, and asked, “Do all dungeons have an exit like that?”

Ekon quickly diverted and said, “Dungeons allow Pokemon to go one way, never both. So, I guess that they compensated for such a rigid structure by instantly teleporting the Pokemon in question to the entrance rather than break the rules when entering from an exit. It’s weird, but it works. Now, how about we get going to the Elusive Woods? It’s high time you two see a proper Mystery Dungeon!” He flapped into the air, leaving his four other companions on the ground.

Gaiden shook his head, turning to Sion, Ren and Cosma. “Since he’s gone off on his own, I suppose I’ll have to take you there myself…even if I think it’s safer to go around the Woods. Come on.” He turned away, trudging into the vast forest, leading his three charges toward the Elusive Woods.

~~~~

Lukas sat alongside Harold and Corinne in the Wenstrel Café, his roast berries with seedcakes lying untouched. Soon after the departure of the expedition, Simeon Slurpuff quickly began serving out breakfast to those who needed it. The Guildmaster felt that he should take solace from standing in his Tower and go out to his community once more.

The Café was now filled with many of the Pokemon of Lucario Guild, all thankful for Simeon’s free meals. All spoke freely about their daily concerns, whether they were families discussing their qualms, or exploration teams discussing their latest mission for the day. The early morning light shone through the windows, illuminating the room enough to justify not using the lanterns.

He clasped his paws and said, “Thank you, Corinne, for coming here today. I know that you aren’t very well-liked in the Guild, despite my efforts. I just wanted to talk about some things.” Harold watched carefully as he stuffed one of the seedcakes in his mouth, while Corinne, who sat on the other side of the table, smiled graciously, setting aside her food.

“The pleasure’s all mine, Guildmaster. With how busy you’ve been lately, I’m surprised you’ve even come at all, let alone to me! What is it you were wondering about?” She asked.

Lukas quickly snatched a berry from his plate, famished from his lack of dinner the previous night. After swallowing, he asked, “Have you felt comfortable here since you came twelve years ago? I’m aware that Molly has been giving you a free room since your stay.”

Corinne gave a half-hearted smile and said, “Well, yes it’s true she’s been helpful to me, although I’ve been trying to make it up to her by helping in the daycare, using my abilities to ensure she doesn’t lose business; everyone thinks Zoroarks are bad news you know. Still, she and Victor have been good to me, and I don’t ask for much more than a room, some food for the day, and of course their company. You’ve been welcome to be with too, you know.” Harold remained silent, knowing that his questions would soon be asked by his superior.

Lukas nodded, replying, “That’s good to hear. Now, have you ever had any…desires, to leave the Guild?”

Corinne gasped quietly, shaking her head and putting her claw to her chest. “Why no, no I haven’t! At least…not recently.” She looked to her food, picking up a berry and rolling it between her claws. Lukas raised an eyebrow, wanting to hear more.

She sighed, then continued. “I guess a few months ago I was planning on going, although it wasn’t so much for me; you, Victor and Molly have supported me for so long, and it would be heartbreaking to leave you. I was considering it for Sion’s sake. Ever since he got here, he’s only ever had me and you three as companions; everyone else was driven away because of our heritage. I didn’t want Sion to continue to put up with such a life, so I was thinking about going off to another village and starting anew.”

Lukas leaned close to the table, asking, “What made you want to stay?”

Corinne looked up with a grin, replying, “It’s thanks to Victor really. He told me the day before I was ready that Sion was doing remarkably well in Expedition School, and that he’d make a wonderful explorer once he graduated. So, I decided to stay, knowing that the Guild was the best place to give Sion the best chance for a change.”

Lukas nodded, taking another berry from his plate. “That’s good to hear, very good. On the subject of Sion, I noticed that he had on a peculiar cloak. I’ve never seen him wear it before, and it reminds me of a certain Pokemon by the canyon exit. Would you care to elaborate?”

Corinne hesitated for a moment, looking to the ground shutting her eyes. “It’s a long story. I can say that it was from my husband, but the rest will take a while to explain.”

Lukas lifted his arms, motioning to the air of the Café. “We have time. As long as Simeon’s in the kitchen, and Pokemon here are having a good time, I don’t have to be anywhere.” He set his arms down again, and asked, “Would you please tell me the story of how Ferrick’s Cloak managed to end up in your care 250 years after its owner’s death?”

Corinne took a deep breath, saddened by her thoughts. “I’m not actually related to the Usurper, at least not directly. Sion’s father, Sevo, comes from Arthus’ line. Some decades back, his own father had inherited the cloak from a relative, who supposedly was descended from Ferrick. Either way, it grows more complicated than that.

“This cloak supposedly enhanced Ferrick’s illusionary powers, making it so he could span a greater area with his powers. With Arthus’ abilities, he could make the sky rage with dragons, giving it the illusion that the night was a death trap to all who exited Fort Ervine, the predecessor to what is now Lucario Guild. Rumors say that it was given this power through Arthus’ mastery over Life, although that’s never been confirmed. What was certain was that it enhanced the abilities of any Zoroark who wore it.

“I’d rather not get into what Sevo used the cloak for; sadly, it tended to be that descendants of Arthus ended up on the wrong side of the law. What I can tell you is that one night he left the cloak behind, saying that he didn’t want it for some business he had to take care of. He never came back, and so I took it for myself, bringing it with me to Lucario Guild with Illusion.”

She stopped, a tear coming to her eye. “I never tried to use it, but I know it held power, and Ferrick must have used it to help him in the days of Project Empowerment. Sion is not a great fighter, so I gave it to him to help him either run away from battle, or deceive his opponents.”

~~~~

The sun hung in the center of the sky when the darkened entrance into the Elusive Woods came into view. Trees grew tightly together, the canopy becoming a thick ceiling, letting little light through the cracks. Birdsong ceased, the atmosphere of the dungeon hushing their joyful tones. Trees curved into an arch in front of the entrance, with a gnarled wooden sign that lay attached to it, saying, “The Elusive Woods: One of Many Ever-changing Forests.”

Ekon dove to the ground, a plume of leaves and dust blowing away from his legs. He craned his head back, watching as Gaiden, Cosma, Sion and Ren stepped toward the dungeon entrance. He called out, “Come on, just this way! Once we’re through, the coast won’t be much farther!”

Sion looked at the trees surrounding him, the very nature of the Mystery Dungeon permeating through the air. The entrance yawned before him, inviting outsiders into an unknown fate. Only the whisper of the wind blowing past it could be heard. They stopped several feet in front of the entrance, the darkness inside seeming to have malicious intent.

Cosma shrunk behind Gaiden’s legs, staring at the entrance with fearful eyes. “I-I changed my mind, actually. Why don’t we go around?”

Ekon shook his head, pointing to the right. “The dungeon extends both ways for miles. We need to get to the coast as soon as possible, and who knows how long it’ll take for Frederick to get there? The woods are the quickest way through.”

Sion continued to study the entrance, his education coming to mind. “Doesn’t time pass more quickly inside a Mystery Dungeon? Like an hour passes in fifteen minutes?”

Ekon stopped himself, considering the remark. “It depends on the dungeon. The larger ones don’t hasten time as much, but yes, you’re right. I’d rather go through and take the shortcut then take a longer time with another way, however.”

Ren began to think of his favorite subject in Expedition School, and he asked, “What sort of wild Pokemon are there in there?”

Ekon raised a claw as if to reply, then quickly retracted it. He scratched the back of his head, saying, “Actually, I’m not sure. I’d expect mostly Grass and Bug Pokemon, due to the environment we’re in.” He shook his head, pointing to the entrance. “Come on, we’re wasting daylight! There’s sure to be plenty of Pokemon in there, and I’d rather not be stuck when the dungeon shifts, just like when old Laryon did when he was young!”

The legend of Laryon’s journey in defeating Arthus the Usurper had been continually taught to the young Pokemon of Equivos, and even Ren paid attention to his ancestor’s antics. 300 years ago, he had ventured into a dungeon known as the Were-Forest, and right when the dungeon’s walls began to collapse, he narrowly escaped, saving himself and his Uncle Matheus. He has been one of the few Pokemon to ever witness the terrifying scene.

Ren stepped forward, a determined look in his eyes. “I’ll go in first. How bad can a little Mystery Dungeon be?” He strode toward the entrance, sinking into the dark abyss without a sound.

Ekon clapped quietly, saying, “Good, a willing volunteer, in one so young as well!” He stopped and began to follow his young charge. “I’ll see you all inside!” He called, disappearing into the darkness just as Ren did.

Cosma looked up to Gaiden fear still in her eyes. “You’ll keep me safe in there, right? I can’t really fight in there…”

Gaiden scooped her into his arms, carrying her with him as he began his entry into the Elusive Woods. “Don’t worry; I’ll make sure you’re by my side at all times,” he said. He disappeared, and Sion was left by himself.

He looked behind him, the Founder’s Canyon no longer in view. He hoped that the Dungeon wouldn’t be too dangerous. After all, it was so close to home…how bad could it be? He then thought of what Dungeon Items could be in there. This would be his first opportunity to see if he enjoyed Dungeon Exploration. He just had to follow them into the dungeon!

He mustered up his courage, pushing Ferrick’s cloak behind him. He marched into the enveloping blackness, and with a rush of wind, he felt a downward sensation. After a moment more of walking, he saw a light. He entered the light, and he saw trees rising into the air, forming a tight net around him. The room was made of tightly packed trees, and two tunnels connected to his left and right. Ren and the others stood in the center, looking around the first room of the Elusive Woods.

The cries of various Pokemon filled the air, and Sion now had his first taste of what a Mystery Dungeon was: fear.
 
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Here's my second-to-last chapter before the grand awards! Sadly, my chapters after 14 won't count, but I'll continue to post even with the awards in mind. Happy reading!
Chapter 13: Dungeon Ferocity

Excerpt of Page 77 of the Explorer’s Guide: Wands

Wands are one of the various Dungeon Items that explorers find in the various Mystery Dungeons. They come in bundles of three-to-ten, and they are bound together by a simple grass rope. The Wands in the bundle can only be used once, but they provide vital abilities for anyone wishing to go through Mystery Dungeons.

Matheus’ Notes:

Ah, Wands. While unable to cover an entire room, like Orbs, they make up for it by coming in these bundles. I love Guiding Wands myself, due to them helping you see the Stairs in an instant. It gives you a bit of a headache at times, and a few new users are known to…have nausea, to keep my language proper.

----------

On the open seas in the Archipelago of Cretea, in between the tiny islets, a ship bobbed along the waves, its white sails billowing in the breeze. Scars of exploration adorned its scabbed sides, its years marked by the boards that were carefully nailed over its bores. The deck lay covered with old rope, and discarded food—both meat and fruit alike. Three decks formed the ship: Sleeping quarters, cargo hold, and training area. Attached to the stern was the misshapen cabin for the illustrious captain of this marvelous ship: Frederick Feraligatr.

Captain Frederick lay asleep in the crow’s nest, tipping side-to-side with the rhythmic flow of the waves. He snored in tandem as well, his ear closely attuned to the sea. He wore a black tricorn hat over his head, which now hung over his jaw, guarding his eyes from the rays of harsh sunlight. His body was covered with bite marks and scratches, scarred over from past encounters with enemies of the deep and the land. In one of his claws was an elongated telescope, and in the other was his badge of office: the Arc of Arceus with a white flame, marking him as a Freelance Explorer, unaligned with any of the Guilds of Equivos.

He snored, his tail rocking back and forth with the waves. The hat began to slip off his snout, and after a time, it fell to the floor of the crow’s nest, revealing his eyes to the sky. He blinked them, wishing to gain a few more precious moments of rest. In his waking moments, he began to drift from his dream of arm wrestling a Krookodile and to the task he had set to before dozing off.

He yawned, stretching his arms, nearly losing grip of his telescope. He caught himself, dragging the arm back into the crow’s nest. He leaned down, picking up his hat and setting it lopsided on his head. He looked up, and with a grunt, he adjusted it, grinding his teeth. He set the telescope to his eye, and began looking to the horizons, ignoring the remains of Wayfare and Cretea beneath the waves.

In his search, he began humming a tune in his bass voice, and with a turn of his neck, he began to sing the lyrics of his tune:

“Searchin’, searchin’

Searchin’ for Land,

Searching for Land o’ Plenty!

Lands lost to mind,

And to memory too,

For me to snag

For me to use!

I’m old Frederick,

Captain o’ the Seas,

And no little island

Is going to stop me!

I help the innocent,

But only when I feel!

They call me crazy,

But by me keel,

I’ll be renowned,

No matter what they says-y!”

He lifted his eye, cocking his head. “I need to work on that last line. Wonder what rhymes with cra--Ooh, lookee here!” He set the telescope to his eye once more, spying a distant object in the open sky, looking to be some sort of bird.

He smacked his lips, clapping his claws over both ends of the telescope, closing it up. He tossed it to the floor, and began to clamber out of the crow’s nest. “’Bout time I get a proper meal in my belly. I’m getting sick o’ apples and berries!” He exclaimed, cackling. He clutched the mast and slid down the beam, keeping sight of the flying Pokemon as he did.

He looked to the sky, seeing the Pokemon draw closer. He squinted, saying to himself, “I need to make myself a pocket for that scope. I can hardly see a wink out there without it!” He smacked his lips again, saying, “Ooh, looks like a Zubat! Haven’t had one of those in ages! A bit leathery, but their little wings make a wonderful sack!” He laughed to himself once more, lifting the lid off a giant barrel. He hopped inside, taking off his hat and replacing it with the lid.

He lifted the lid a crack, letting him see a sliver of the outside world. “He’s as blind as a…well…Zubat. No way can he see me in here!” He said in hushed tones. The Zubat flitted in view, the tiny Pokemon twisting and turning, with a roll of paper strung onto his…feet, with the Seal of Lucario Guild emblazoned on it.

The Zubat squeaked, “I-I’m here with a message from Guildmaster Lukas! I-I know you’re there Frederick!”

The Captain groaned inwardly, seeing the Seal. “Darn, he’s a civil one! And from old Lukas too! Ah well, guess I’ll have to go inland for my new sack…” He muttered. He sprung out of the barrel in a flash, grabbing the body of the now-terrified Zubat and slamming him against the mast. He cackled once more, staring at the ears of the Zubat with malicious intent.

“Yarr, who be invading me ship! I’ve wrestled more Gyarados than I can count, and I’m not afraid to make you my meal!” he roared, causing the Zubat to shiver.

The bat cried out, “Please don’t eat me! You did this to me the last time I came here!”

Frederick blinked in surprise, bringing his jaws closer to the messenger. “Did I? What’s your name?”

“J-Jerry, sir,” the Zubat replied.

Frederick scratched his chin with his other claw, looking to the sky. Realization dawned on him, and he cried out, “Oh, Jerry! Now I remember you. Didn’t I pounce on you when you told me that Lukas needed a lift to Deitae that one time?”

“Y-Yes, and it’s just as scary as before.”

Frederick grinned, and he began to laugh heartily. He clutched his sides, letting go of the Zubat, who swiftly began to flap in the air once more. After a moment more of humor, Frederick wiped a tear from his eye and said, “Ah, I’d love to say I’m sorry, but you can’t let a good opportunity pass by for a scare.” He straightened himself, setting his arms on his hips, and eyed the Zubat haughtily. “So, Jerry, what brings you to my ship for the second time?”

The Zubat hovered close to Frederick, hovering close to his arms rather than his teeth. “I-It’s about a group of Pokemon wanting a ship to go south, very far south. R-Read it for yourself!” He pleaded. Frederick untied his parcel from his limbs, and the Zubat flapped as hard as he could into the sky, desperately wanting to get away from the feral captain.

Frederick looked up, and with a glint in his eye he waved to the Zubat, saying, “Let me know if you run into any wild swarms of you fellows! I’ve grown tired of eating seabirds all the time!”

Jerry sighed to himself, shaking his head. “Why did they have to choose me twice to go to that guy? He’s insane!” He continued to fly toward Lucario Guild, safely away from Captain Frederick.

Frederick undid the string around paper, and scanned the contents, muttering to himself about the contents. “Mmm…expedition…Forgotten Isles…five Pokemon…Gaiden and Ekon…two youths…Pokemon from Tapu Islands…meet by Bisharp Point, with supplies for the journey. Signed…Lukas Lucario.” He rolled it up again, and threw it to the ground, licking his claw and holding it in the air. “Hmm…northwesterly wind…perfect!”

He scrabbled across the deck and climbed up the mast, tightening the slackened sails and directing them to his destination. Afterwards he took a trip to the crow’s nest, taking from it his telescope and a bottle of berry juice. He popped the cork off the bottle and took a long draught from it. He finally lifted his lips from it, and with a contented sigh, he threw it into the sea, leaving not so much as a drop in the bottle.

He stood upright in the crow’s nest, and looked to the northwest, where the continent of Serenita loomed in the horizon. He sniffed the air, and then lifted his telescope to his eye looking to the far coast. “Bisharp Point’s not too far from here. About…seven hours away. Better get going!” He closed the scope and set it in his jaws, and with a bound he threw himself from the crow’s nest, snatching a dangling rope from the mast and sliding down it, landing safely on the deck. He dashed to the port side, and with a groan he hefted the massive piece of iron from the depths, heaving his anchor to his ship.

The ship began to lurch, the scattered remains of Frederick’s meals plopping into the sea. He dropped the chain, and scrambled to the top of the cabin, grabbing the slow-spinning wheel and setting it straight, directing the bow around the islets that sprouted from undersea mountains.

He took a deep breath, and exhaled slowly. “What a life for a freelance explorer like me! Time to see what the unknown has to offer me, the Feral Frederick Feraligatr!” He took a peek to the south, wanting to make sure that it was clear of any ocean storms. In his single glance, he saw a distant black figure, clad with a blue shell on the top and bottom.

He turned his head back, then with a sharp breath he turned back, thinking he saw an unfamiliar Pokemon. He saw nothing but the rolling waves of the oceans, and past that, the distant Mist Wall, rising into the southern skies, and descending into the distant depths.

He chuckled to himself, patting the wheel. “Either I must be going as mad as me friends say, or I saw one o’ those Pokemon from the supposed Forgotten Isles!”

~~~~

Gaiden pointed to the hallway just in front of him, turning to the rest of his group. “We best go through here. The calls of the wild Pokemon aren’t as loud, and I think we’ll have an easier time of finding the Stairs.”

Ekon screeched in reply, pointing down the other hallway. “Nonsense, those wild Pokemon love hanging around the Stairs. We’ll fight our way through!”

Ren punched his fists together with a smile. “Sounds fine by me.” Ekon wrapped an arm around him, looking confidently over to Gaiden.

“I’m liking him more already.” He added.

Sion looked down either hallway, unsure of the best course of action. While he wanted to go to the Stairs the faster way, he’d rather not have to confront wild Pokemon already.

Before he could voice his thoughts, Ekon took his arm away from Ren and began to flap his wings, floating low in the air. “I’ll see you slowpokes at the exit. I’m going down this way!” He sped into the hallway, turning the corner with a screech.

Ren immediately followed him, taking large strides to catch up with the Noivern. “I’m right behind you! Let’s go!”

Gaiden sighed, shaking his head. “Come on, we’ll meet up with them sooner or later. Ekon’s a strong fighter, and if what I’ve heard from Lukas is true, so is Ren.” He began to walk into the other, calm and studious, unlike the rampaging duo.

Cosma, still in Gaiden’s arms, looked around her, shivering. “I-I don’t know h-how much I like this place. I-It’s scary, with those t-trees like walls a-and the sky being covered like that.” Sion couldn’t help but agree, the distant lights of the outside only making an eerie glow below. He followed Gaiden, having the feeling he would appreciate his approach more.

After a series of turns and progression, they came into another empty room, with the same undergrowth as the previous one did. Three more tunnels sprouted from the room, each extending to a different point in the dungeon. To their left, the excited cries of Ekon and Ren could be heard.

Sion looked to the ground, seeing nothing of interest at first glance. He looked in the corner, and saw a bundle of sticks, tied up with grass. He came to it and snatched it, reading the ribbon for their identity: “Blast.”

Gaiden looked over his shoulder, nodding appreciatively. “Ordinarily, any items you find would go to the proposed Leader in the dungeon, although, given the circumstances, feel free to keep those Blast Wands for yourself.”

Sion held them in the air, inspecting them. “Don’t these send out a big fireball when waved?” Gaiden nodded.

“Indeed they do, which is why we should be cautious when using—“

“Let me try! I like waving things around!” Cosma cheered, thrusting herself from Gaiden’s grasp and slipping a Wand from the bundle.

Sion quickly tried to wrest it from her grip. “There’s only four, don’t use it!” He exclaimed.

“But I wanna try!” Cosma cried. She pulled downward, and with a flick of her arm, a ball of fire roughly her size shot out of the wand, roaring into the tunnel.

The wand dissolved into yellow sparkles, and Cosma gave a cry of delight. “Let’s do that again!” The ball of fire slammed into an unknown Pokemon, and with a roar of dismay it fell to the ground, flinching and charred.

Sion entered the tunnel and grimaced, seeing a scorched Tropius sprawled on the ground. Its leafy wings were blackened, and the fruit around its neck had turned a shade of orange. It grimaced, unconscious, the injuries too great for it to continue on.

He crouched next to it, cringing. He looked down into his bag, where the remaining three Blast Wands now remained. “Better make sure to use these wisely…” He noted. He looked farther into the hall, seeing another room in the distance. He saw a flash of white light, and a shout from Ren.

“Get him! Get him Ekon!” He said.

Sion looked over to Gaiden, who continued to study the scene. Sion asked, “Should we head over there?” Ren fired a white stream of blinding light, which Sion recognized as his Flash Cannon.

Gaiden turned around, saying, “Unless the fools love to fight, I’d say the Stairs aren’t over there. Let’s head this way.” He entered the tunnel to their left, with Cosma floating behind, bouncing along behind him.

“I’m feeling much better now! This place isn’t so scary, as long as we have those Wands!” She said. Sion made a note to keep the Blast Wands away from the young Cosmog’s clutches. He entered the same hallway as Gaiden did, wondering what else to expect in the next room.

He bumped into Cosma, who looked up to Gaiden and asked, “Why’d we stop? The room’s right there!”

He said nothing, beginning to crouch. Sion saw a squad of wild Gloom wandering in the room, searching for good soil to take root in. He instinctively turned invisible, wishing at all costs to avoid a battle.

Gaiden sprung into the room, two throwing stars made of compacted water in his hands. The Gloom gasped, their flowers puffing a cloud of orange powder into the air. Sion covered his nose, recognizing it as Stun Spores, knowing their paralyzing properties well. Gaiden dodged between the clouds, throwing the stars at one of the Gloom, kicking another one over with his legs, sending them both to the ground.

Cosma floated high in the air, dancing between the individual specks. “I’m liking this place more and more, even with the weird stuff!” A Gloom looked up at the wondrous creature, never seeing one like it before, and seeming to recognize a…cosmic quality to her.

Gaiden easily sent it to the ground with a slap, calling out, “Coast’s clear. We’d better keep moving; the sooner we get out of this place, the better. I loathe fighting Grass Pokemon.” Sion nodded, proceeding onward and removing his invisibility.

The room only had a few scattered berries, which Cosma greedily plucked from the ground and popped into her mouth. Sion groaned, thinking of several mistakes she made. First, she didn’t consider that they could use them in case one of them fell injured, and second, she didn’t consider that she could be hungrier in the future than she was now. He kept these thoughts to himself, however, as an angered scree came from the tunnel behind them.

He looked into the tunnel, seeing a rapidly approaching Scyther, his blades shining in what light there was. It set its sights on Sion, its arms outstretched and ready to strike. Sion yelped and turned invisible, causing the Scyther to stop, screeing once more.

Gaiden felt the brush of a cloak behind his back, and rolled his eyes. “Someday you need to learn to fight your own battles,” he muttered. He sprung into the air and threw a star at the Scyther, who promptly dodged the projectile and set to flying toward its attacker. Gaiden dove to the ground, causing it to miss and turn around to find him once more. Gaiden slammed into its underside, thrusting upward and striking it with a kick. It skidded to the ground, shaking its head and looking around. Blackish-purple claws raked its chest, and it shut its eyes, the dark energy clouding its mind.

Sion reappeared, shuddering, his right claw’s glow receding. “I’m never going to get used to that.” He turned his head to the next tunnel, hearing the victory shouts of Ekon and Ren coming from the connected room.

Gaiden promptly snatched Cosma from the air and said, “They probably found the Stairs. We best follow them now.” Sion followed, his cloak billowing behind him as he did so.
 
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I don't know if this is as great as other chapters I've written; despite the name, the Mystery Dungeons themselves are one of my least favorite things to write about. Still, I've gotten through it, and in a couple weeks, Act 1 will be completed!
Chapter 14: The Elusive Woods

Excerpt of Page 82 of the Explorer’s Guide: Orbs


Orbs are spherical blue gems that, when smashed against the ground, execute special effects that affect the user’s room or floor. There are numerous kinds of Orbs, and are all denoted by the engraving set within the surface.

Matheus’ Notes:

Orbs are a blessing of nature to us adventurers. Even if they can only be properly used in Mystery Dungeons, they can be used for other things, like a paper weight. They are also useful for when you need a mirror, as they have a highly reflective surface. Now, if you excuse me, I have a certain Pokemon to meet in my own…

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Sion grimaced at the sight of a grey set of brick stairs that descended into a black pit, the room below unseen. Ren and Ekon had already descended the unnatural landmark, their voices unheard to Gaiden, Sion and Cosma. The unconscious bodies of Gloom, Scyther and Venipede lay scattered around the Stairs, a trail of conquest by the vengeful Pokemon.

Cosma hovered above the Stairs, immediately retreating to Gaiden. “I don’t like the looks of that; it’s dirty and scary.”

Sion set a foot on the top step, feeling nothing different than that of a regular set of stairs. “These go down to the next floor, and if we want to get out of here, we’ll want to go down.” He looked back to Gaiden, who gestured for him to go down first. Sion gave a shuddering sigh, and went into the inky blackness, melding into the depths.

After a few moments, Gaiden snatched Cosma from the air and began descending the Stairs himself, to the protesting cries of the islander. “Hey, let me go! I want to find another way down!”

Gaiden looked down at her and said, “The only way out is down, and unless you want to be bug food you better come down with me.”

Cosma immediately stopped complaining, holding her breath with her cheeks puffed out as she sunk into the darkness. She let go of her breath as she felt a sudden drop, Gaiden landing with a spring. Cosma looked up, seeing a dark square that marked the location of the Stairs above, hanging in the sky like a dark cloud.

She wriggled out of Gaiden’s grasp, giving a sigh of relief. “That wasn’t so bad. Why can’t these woods be like every other forest around here?” Sion stood in disbelief at the sky, seeing the same exact canopy as the floor above, despite the fact they had descended.

Gaiden peeked into the one tunnel they could go through, saying to Cosma, “Mystery Dungeons like this are treacherous, but they provide the fastest way to go to various locations, and provide things like seeds, berries, even TMs to us without having to produce them. Equivos simply wouldn’t be the same without them.” He turned to them and said, “Looks like the coast is clear. If I remember correctly, these woods have around seven floors, although it’s been a while since I’ve been here; I’ve always preferred going around due to the Grass Pokemon.” He proceeded into the tunnel, with Sion and Cosma just behind.

They turned around many corners, meeting no Pokemon whatsoever. Gaiden looked side-to-side pretentiously, seeming to expect danger to come from anywhere. Cosma had broken free of his arms and floated vicariously through the air, quickly rebounding from her fear of the Stairs. Toward the back, Sion studied the dungeon as Gaiden did, though more in fear rather than in expectance.

Finally, at the center of the room at the end of the tunnel, the Stairs appeared once more, their eternal darkness continuing. The party looked around curiously, seeing no items or enemies whatsoever. No sign of Ren and Ekon either.

Sion turned to Gaiden and asked, “Strange how we didn’t have to do anything but walk in a long tunnel, right?” Gaiden only grunted, walking down the Stairs, with Cosma floating just behind.

“I like going down these now; they’re like going through cold mud!” She exclaimed, dropping into the abyss. Sion stood in the room for a minute, listening to the disturbing silence of the floor. He shuddered afterward, the quiet eating into his mind. He anxiously stepped down the Stairs, the feeling of the descent just as Cosma described.

Sion dropped into the room, narrowly dodging a stray sphere of supersonic energy. He whipped around, seeing Ekon wrestling with a Scizor on the other side of the room, attempting to attack its face with his soundwaves. Ren batted at a Scyther with a glowing blue bone, knocking away its blades and swatting its legs, while Gaiden dove into the air and landed in front of another Scyther, disappearing in a purple mist. Cosma cowered in a corner formed by the trees, covering her eyes and expecting the worst.

Ren swung his bone on the Scyther with a sickening crunch, shouting out, “Finished this one off! How’re the others coming?”

Ekon screamed into the Scizor’s face, stunning it, loosening its iron grip. He tore free and punted the Scizor with his legs, replying, “Dunno how this guy got a hold on an Metal Coat, but he’s down! How ‘bout you Gaiden?”

The final Scyther slashed the air around it wildly, attempting to land a blow on the unseen Gaiden. It suddenly raised both arms to the sky, falling to the ground with a black slash across its back. Gaiden reappeared, standing on a single leg, his eyes closed. He met Ekon’s gaze and said, “I prefer not to take too much credit for my actions. After all, you two attracted them to us.”

Ekon harrumphed, turning his head. “Not my fault. You know I can’t control it,” he said. He squawked once more, clamping a claw over his mouth.

Gaiden smiled ever so slightly, pointing to the tunnel to his right. “I believe we should go--“

“That way! Here we go!” Ekon shouted, running down the tunnel…that went the opposite direction. There was a sudden squawk, and Ekon said, “Aw great, they have friends!” He rushed past the others, an angry buzzing of many Scyther coming from within.

Ren paled, taking a step toward the other tunnel. “That’s way too many for us to handle…” Gaiden took Cosma from the corner and charged for the tunnel, the ferocious cries of the Scyther growing closer. Ren soon followed, nearly falling to the floor in the process.

The Scyther came into view as a massive swarm, all coming toward the intruders. He turned around and sprinted as fast as he could, drawing the cloak over him and casting invisibility over himself. He hated feeling useless on their first trek through a dungeon, especially since Ren got exactly what he wanted: Pokemon to fight. All Sion had found was a few Blast Wands and a couple of Berries; hardly an interesting discovery.

He felt a desire to shed his invisibility and attack the Scyther, to halt his maddening progress through the rooms of the floor and be a shadow in other Pokémon’s trails. His logical side convinced him against such actions, knowing that he would suffer death by hundreds of knives if he did so. A new plan rose into his mind, one that could earn him a place among the achievers in the team.

He looked behind him with a determined look and flung his claws toward the Scyther, a faint wisp of red mist trickling out. A booming roar echoed through the forest, and the Scyther stopped in their tracks, unsure of the source. A black specter formed in front of them, a dark persona with elongated arms and legs, and crimson eyes.

It stomped forward, and glistening white fangs materialized beneath the eyes. It bellowed once more, and made a false swipe at its enemies. The Scyther fled in a mass of terror, their once-organized flight falling into disarray as they fled to the darkest corners of the dungeon.

Sion did not dare look behind him, expecting his little trick to simply stun the Scyther temporarily. He saw the Stairs ahead of him, abandoned by what Pokemon there may have been. He hurriedly descended them, emerging in the fourth floor with his comrades.

He gave a sigh of relief, saying, “Good thing I scared those guys off, or else we would have had a whole lot of trouble.”

Ekon’s eyes widened, and he pointed to the canopy above. “You mean you made that horrid roar? That didn’t sound like anything I’ve ever heard before…and I mean that in a bad way,” Ekon stated.

Gaiden set Cosma free to the air and pointed at Sion saying, “Was that thing simply instinctive, or did you know what exactly you summoned through illusion?”

Sion thought back to the roar. He didn’t look back to what exactly he made; he only heard the devilish roar that came from it. He wasn’t even thinking about what came from his illusion, just that he needed something to distract the Scyther.

Sion shook his head, replying, “I don’t really know. I don’t even know how it looked like.” Gaiden nodded slowly, thinking carefully. He turned behind him, the tunnel ahead empty and forsaken.

Ren shuddered, saying, “I don’t know what you did, but I think it scared more than the Pokemon on that floor. Who knows? That roar could’ve come down here too.” Cosma floated still in the air, voiceless.

Ekon nodded his head, motioning around him. “It may be possible. We aren’t truly descending through the Woods after all, if what I heard is to be believed. See, I heard from Alakazam Guild that they believe that the floors of the dungeons are all really on the same level, and the Stairs act as portals from one section of the dungeon to the next. Makes sense in a way, as in places like this, we can see the sky everywhere we go.” He began to go down the tunnel, adding, “Either way, that roar could very well be heard down here. Let’s be off; we’d be lucky if no more wild Pokemon could be seen.

They progressed through the dungeon with relative ease meeting no resistance. It seemed that the wild Pokemon did flee to the exit from Sion’s illusionary tactics. The air of the dungeon felt unsettled, as if a form of darkness had suddenly taken the air and infused fear into it, causing all who breathe it to feel the constant need to escape.

Now progressing through the fifth floor, with little more than some Plain Seeds and a Slow Orb found, Sion looked down at his claws, wondering what on Equivos came to his mind. He usually used his powers to hide himself, and very rarely made constructs of other Pokemon. The last time he could remember was making an imitation of Molly sleeping at her desk, to make it seem as if, to her customers, she was there at all times, when in reality she was taking some liberties to shop at Kecleon’s roving shop tent, one in few opportunities.

Still, while the strangeness of the dungeon unsettled him, he knew that this wasn’t the best example of what to expect in an exploration team. He’d be going into dungeons with a clear purpose outside of simply reaching the end, often saving Pokemon from grisly fates from the night, while collecting rare items along the way. A dungeon like the Elusive Woods was frightful, yes, but nothing too exciting to look for items in.

On the seventh floor, the snarling and screeing of various Pokemon could be heard, all coming from a single direction. Ekon perked an ear toward it, his face drooping.

“Cursed Pokemon. There’s so many of the blighters that there’s a line to the Stairs, at least as far as I can tell. I can certainly take a few down, but with how many there is all in that tiny little area, I doubt we’ll get far.”

Ren groaned, looking to the ground. “I was hoping to crack a few more skulls…”

Ekon laughed, wrapping an arm around Ren. “Believe me, it’ll end up with your skull cracked, and you being the next meal of a crowd of Scyther, Gloom, and whatever else is in this place. I’ve heard Lucario is a delicacy to the wild ones.”

Ren pulled himself away, disgusted by his sense of humor. “Yeah, well, what should we do. If they’re crowded around the Stairs as you say, there’s no way we can sneak around them. This is the final floor too; we’ll be at the exit and to Frederick, then to the Isles, where we can finally get Cosma home!” he said impatiently.

Ekon tutted, replying, “If you think half a day is a long time to be going abroad, you’re going to live a rough life. We have to often go out for weeks at time to get where we need, and its only thanks to the Guild Outposts throughout the continent that we can make it to all our requests on time. Now come on, let’s think of ideas!”

Cosma immediately hovered into Ekon’s face and exclaimed, “Why don’t we just be friends with those Pokemon? That’s how we did it over on Bulu Island before the UBs came!”

Ekon cocked is head curiously at her, saying, “Ubies? What are you talking about?”

Cosma looked around asking, “Does anyone here know what that means?” None stirred. She sighed saying, “I just took the first letters of ‘Ultra’ and ‘Beast’, and put them together! It’s much better than saying ‘Ultra Beast’ all the time. Now come on, is it a good idea or not?”

Ekon shook his head sadly. “Given how the Scyther sharpened their blades right when they saw me back on the fourth floor, I’d say not. Wild Pokemon have a reputation of being hostile to…pretty much anyone who can talk. Nice try though.” Cosma harrumphed, rushing behind Gaiden to mutter to herself.

Sion was hesitant to suggest anything--him usually being the one in the background and not outgoing—but he felt it necessary to get out of the dungeon alive. He cleared his throat, and calmly stated, “Why don’t we, uh, that is to say, become unseen, like I do when I don’t want to be around others.” He saw nods of agreement from Ekon and Gaiden, and with a slight smile he added, “I haven’t really tried doing more than one, but it can’t be much harder, right?”

Cosma squealed with glee, saying, “Why not, I’ve always wanted to stick my tongue out in front of somebody without them noticing!”

Ren sighed, looking away. “If it’s the only way to get out of this place, fine. I’d rather fight my way through than…” The rest fell out of earshot.

Ekon shut his eyes and clenched his fists, saying, “If it hurts, you’re going to get a headache for a week.” Sion swallowed fearfully, knowing exactly what he meant.

Sion took a deep breath, then lifted his claws. A shimmer fell over them, and at first, nothing seemed to happen. Cosma looked at herself, still hovering in the air. Ekon saw his wings, as visible as ever. Ren looked behind him, seeing that his tail was still perfectly visible.

They wanted to voice their complaints, until they saw that no one was there. Cosma cried out, “Hey, where’d everybody go? You didn’t leave me behind, right?”

Gaiden groaned, saying, “No, we just can’t see each other. Is there any way we can become invisible to just the wild Pokemon?”

Sion replied, “Sorry, it’s all or nothing. I could maybe do something different if I had more practice, but for now, we have to settle with this. Just be careful that you’re quiet; they might not be able to see us, but they can hear and smell us just fine.”

Footsteps could be heard going to the tunnel, and Ekon’s voice said, “Come on, just this way! All the wild Pokemon are clamoring over there; I’m rather surprised they haven’t shaken free of that fear yet.” Sion agreed, progressing to the Stairs.

After several minutes of weaving through tunnels, he saw a long progressing line of Gloom, all waiting behind the Pokemon in front of them. The entire room was clustered with Pokemon going down the exit Stairs one by one, leaving little room for them to move ahead.

Cosma said in a low whisper, “I can just float over them, so see ya!” The wild Pokemon were unaffected, except for the lone Oddish who was knocked aside by a mysterious force.

Ren said in a hoarse whisper, “How are we going to get through that! There’s way too many!”

Wings beat the air over the Pokemon, and a low chuckle could be heard from Ekon. “I know what’ll solve this problem. Leave it to me!” he said.

A gigantic roar echoed through the room, causing all the Scyther, Gloom, and other assorted Bug and Grass Pokemon to look around fearfully. The roar came again, and the haunting memory of the fourth floor came back to the wild Pokemon.

They began to run away from the Stairs, expecting the mysterious beast to come after them before they could escape. Ren, Gaiden and Sion dodged past the terrified Pokemon, finally reaching the Stairs and descending into the inky blackness for the final time in the Elusive Woods.

At the bottom, Sion lifted his illusion; the need no longer applied. All were present, if a bit bewildered by the sudden change in scenery. Behind them, an arch similar to the entrance reached into the forest, to pop the entrées back to the start. Trees began to thin to grassland, and the sun had nearly begun its set, hanging just above the horizon.

Ren wheezed a sigh of relief, looking back at the exit. “About time we got out of there. After seeing how many there were, I’m glad we didn’t go in there with no thought of safety. Let’s get going to the ship!” He began to run ahead, and Cosma followed, rushing to push ahead of the Lucario. Gaiden and Ekon walked behind, watching behind them for any of the wild Pokemon that supposedly came out of the dungeon.
 
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I am now updating my chapters from PMDLU, and will soon start with those here. After reading the rules, I've discovered that I cannot update PMDFI during the judging period if I wish to qualify. So, instead, I will continue to write new chapters, and will post one chapter every day after the judging period until I am caught up. Just thought I'd let you know!
 
Updates for PMDFI are finished, and I'm halfway done with PMDLU! I expect to finish tonight, and I wish good luck to everybody who was been nominated to the awards!
 
Real shame I couldn't get this chapter out before nominations ended, but it's here now! Oh, before you go to reading, I wanted to let you know that my chapter count has come down from 21 to 20. When I originally drafted the chapter outline, I had never really written 3000 words in a single sitting, at least, for a chapter. Anyways, here's Chapter 15!

Chapter 15: The Seafaring Commences

Excerpt of Page 91 of the Explorer’s Guide: Seeds


Seeds are found alongside berries in dungeons, and are the only other Dungeon Item that can be produced outside of a dungeon. Most Seeds found are Plain, that is, without abilities. Certain Seeds, noted by the color and text engraved on it, grant special effects when eaten. Any Seed that is sown into the ground will grow into a grass, and will produce more Plain Seeds designed for consumption.

Matheus’ Notes:

Seeds, while not as diverse in flavor as berries, provide another source of valuable sustenance, such as bread and seed meal. I quite enjoy some for breakfast, along with some berries and other such things. Just be careful you don’t end up grinding some Sleep Seeds into the flour. Last time I did that, my breakfast made me go to sleep rather than wake me up in the morning.

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The grassland stretched to the high mountains to the west, marshland to the east, and the coastline to the south, where spires of rock jutted above the surface. Zebstrika and Blitzle cantered the land, with Swellow flying west above them. A faint trail winded across the terrain, extending from the exit of the Elusive Woods to the tower of rock known as Bisharp Point, in the shape of its namesake.

Ekon flew alongside a flock of Swellow, driving them away as he screeched into the air. “We’re about an hour away from the Point! Good thing we went through the Woods!”

Ren looked up, groaning. “At least we didn’t add another five hours to it by going through a dungeon like that. Walking for that long is going to stink.

Gaiden kept his arms crossed as he walked, looking back occasionally to ensure that Cosma and Sion still followed them. “If you want something to do, talk to somebody. We can’t be pummeling Scyther to the ground every hour of the day you know.” Ren gave Gaiden an uncaring glare, keeping his thoughts to himself.

Sion watched Cosma hover above his head, singing to herself a song from her home, Bulu Island. He admired the way she was able to keep the beat while flipping through the air and completely disregard gravity. Her song went something like this:

“In springtime, we run to fields

To gather a bunch of flowers,

So that when summer comes

Sickness will flee and cower!

In summertime, we run to trees

To help us build our homes

So that when springtime comes

We can keep flowers from bees!”

Sion looked to her curiously and asked, “What do you do in fall and winter?”

She stopped spinning around and cocked her head towards him. “Fall and winter? What are those?”

“Fall’s when the leaves fall off trees, like the Tree of Slumber in the corner of the Guild. It’s also when we go to the woods and pick apples off trees outside Mystery Dungeons,” he explained. “Winter comes after that, and it gets really cold, and it sometimes even snows!”

Cosma stopped, imagining what he described. “The only time leaves fall off trees on Bulu is when they’re sick or dying, and I’ve only seen snow on Mount Sol and Mount Lune. Everywhere else, we see plants growing year-round.”

Sion realized that fall and winter can come as surprising for someone from a tropical land, even horrifying. He quickly added, “But the trees grow back all their leaves, and as you can see, it gets warm again! Fall and winter never last very long around here.”

Cosma let out a sigh of relief, continuing her circling dance. “I like it that I came while the leaves are on the trees, and when it’s warm. I haven’t really been in the cold before you know. I just know it’s there because of what the Kommo-o tribe said about the mountains.” She stopped her dance, lowering to the ground, crestfallen. “I hope they’re alright. I never saw what happened to them after Tapu Fini brought me here.”

Sion, feeling sorry for her, picked her up, and carried her alongside him, quickening his pace to catch up with Gaiden and Ren. “I’m sure they’re fine. They have…Tapu Bulu, right? The Pokemon who drove away…Buzzwole?” Cosma nodded. Sion added, “Anyway, they’re strong, and if Tapu Bulu threw Buzzwole into that wormhole, he’s got to be strong too! They’ll be just fine against those UBs.”

Cosma grinned, hopping back into the air. “You remembered my name for them!” She said. Sion nodded, grinning himself.

“It is easier to say ‘UB’ than ‘Ultra Beast’,” he replied.

They continued to talk to each other about the various aspects of their homes, including the weather, common Pokemon, and even the way their homes are governed. On that note, Sion asked, “Do the tribes of your island ever talk with each other about things? You know, how we have the Guilds here in Equivos?”

Cosma concentrated, saying, “I never really paid much attention to that. I mostly played with the little Jangmo-o, since I couldn’t really do much other than fly and talk. I think it’s more like ‘you do your thing, we do ours.’” She made a faux-grumpy face, puffing out her cheeks and raising her arms intimidatingly. She lowered them and said, “We don’t get along with other tribes too well. We were friends with the Passimian Tribe, but it was more out of need than of want. If the UBs never came, we probably would still tell them to stay out.” She stopped and asked, “Is there anything like that in Equivos?”

Sion continued walking, replying, “I don’t think so. The only way it could go like that is if the Outlaws overthrow the Guilds, and given that all the towns and villages support us, I doubt that would happen. We try our best to keep everyone happy, even if we can’t always do a perfect job.” He stood behind Gaiden and Ren a couple feet, ensuring that they wouldn’t annoy either of them with their conversation.

They continued to speak to each other until the distinctive Bisharp Point came into view, with the sky just starting to turn orange. The waves rushed to the shore, pushing up foam in its wake, Wingull circling the beach. The wind grew stronger, fervently pushing anything to the south, to the wall of mist that rose in the distance.

Ekon flapped his wings, gradually lowering to the ground. After the cloud of sand dissipated, he looked to the left and right, seeing no sign of their captain. “Where is he? He should have been here by now!”

Gaiden set a hand over his mouth, saying in a whisper, “Hush. Listen.” He perked up his sensitive ears, catching a quiet but distinctive tune, coming from the west.

“Oh, they say I’m mad,

But I’ll prove them wrong!

It’s all because I’m so

Big and strong!

I like a bit o’ meat

With my berries and seeds

While they saw it’s awful,

They forget my good deeds!

I’m Feral Frederick!

Captain o’ the Seas!

And my nature is mine,

So, keep quiet, if you please!”

Around the bend a ragged wooden ship rushed through the open water, leaning precariously as it righted itself. The mast creaked with the wind, desperately desiring to go south rather than east, the sturdy timber tipping toward the Mist Wall At the stern of the dilapidated vessel was a tied-up series of ropes, all preventing the wheel from turning from its captain’s favored course. Within the wooden tub atop the mast known as the Crow’s Nest was the illustrious Captain Frederick Feraligatr, proudly holding his foot against the side of his nest, holding an arm to his chest. In his other claw was another rope, which appeared to be connected to an anchor on the deck below.

He looked to the shore with an uncaring eye, which then, upon seeing his would-be passengers, turned into a look of amazement. He leapt out of the crow’s nest and hung on the edge, bellowing out, “Ahoy there! Meet your entourage to the Forgotten Isles, Captain Frederick Feraligatr!” He gave the rope in his claws a yank, causing the anchor to be pulled off the deck and into the ocean. The ship immediately began to lose speed, and Frederick grabbed hold of the mast and slid down its surface, leaving five gnarling gashes.

The ship pulled to a stop in the banks in front of Sion and the others, and Frederick, midway down the mast, pushed himself off, soaring past the deck and towards the beach. He landed just ten feet in front of Ekon, sending a cloud of sand into the air.

The dust settled, and the many scars of Frederick Feraligatr could be seen along his frame, and on his hat. He held it away from his as he did an elaborate bow, shutting his eyes. “Captain Frederick, at your service,” he said. He coughed and stood straight, his eyes bulging. “Excuse me!” He croaked, turning away and coughing raggedly. Sopping white feathers floated with the wind, coinciding with Frederick’s cough. He turned back to the them, with a contented grin. “Sorry about that. Just some leftovers from a snack I had a while ago. Yer here for a trip to the Forgotten Isles you say?”

Ekon, taken aback by Frederick’s recent episode, said, “Er, yes, yes we are. Um…did you eat a bird raw?”

Frederick grunted, crossing his arms and turning away. “Well, swell introduction of yourself. Didn’t you hear the last verse of me song? ‘So, keep quiet, if you please!’” He placed his claw over his chest at the last line, singing in his hoarse, grunty voice. He shed the pose and said, “Anyways, why’s it your business? Let’s get on with introductions. Who are you!” He jabbed a claw at Ekon, who saw that it had flecks of hardened blood within the contours.

Ekon pushed away the claw, and said confidently, “I’m Ekonmer Noivern, leader of Team Aerospace, and escort of Cosma Cosmog to the Forgotten Isles. Now, if you want someone to keep quiet, meet—"

“Gaiden Greninja, captain of Team Tri-Attack and protector of our two new explorers, Illusion Zoroark and Auren Lucario. Pleased to meet your acquaintance.” Gaiden intervened, holding out a hand.

Frederick grinned, taking the hand and shaking it vigorously, the recipient unfazed. “Glad to see some proper explorers like myself! You know, being freelance does have its downsides, such as loneliness, rumors, and the occasional bout of insanity due to both. But, the major plus here is that I don’t have anyone telling me what to do! I’m the boss of myself!” Frederick exclaimed, quickly going up on both Ekon’s and Gaiden’s dislike lists.

He gave a devilish look to Ren, eyeing him curiously. “Ah, so you must Lukas’ son, Auren! The last time I saw you, you were this small.” He put his claw to his chest, at least two feet shorter than what Ren currently stood to.

Ren held out his paw reluctantly, saying, “It’s Ren, not Auren.”

Frederick laughed mightily, shaking his paw and causing Ren to reconsider the gesture. “You can call me Fred if you like then, but believe me, I won’t come to ya if you call it out!” He cried, tearing free of Ren and stepping to Cosma, leaving Ren to soothe his crushed paw.

Cosma stood in awe at the towering Feraligatr, standing higher than even Ekon. Frederick stooped, looking down at the shrinking Cosmog. “Pleased to make your acquaintance, little Cosma! If you don’t mind me saying, but how old are you exactly?”

Cosma furrowed her brow, straining for an answer. “I can’t say for sure. I just know I ended up with the Kommo-o tribe one day and that’s it,” she said in a faint voice. Somehow, Sion had the feeling that she was hiding something.

Frederick nodded agreeably, standing up straight. “You know, I feel what you mean. I was born way back, and I believe my, er, special diet, had something to do with my youthful stature.” He set a claw in his fanged mouth and pulled out a feather, flicking it away. “Ya get what I mean?” Cosma eeped, dodging behind Gaiden and shivering.

Frederick laughed heartily once more, wiping away a tear from his eye. “Ah, I get the same sort a thing when I occasionally make port! All the little ones are afraid of going it tough, like I did. Yer a sweet little one though so don’t worry, I won’t make you try anythin’ you don’t want to.”

Cosma nodded agreeably, replying, “I-I-I really appreciate that.”

Frederick stomped over to Sion, who felt very small and fragile against the imposing Feraligatr. The Water Pokemon set his teeth in a small grin, his eyes looking up and down Sion. He took a deep sniff, and he drew closer to the Zoroark, his rancid breath nearly making Sion gag.

He drew back, looking to the air. He shrugged, saying, “Hmm…interestin’. I haven’t seen many Zoroarks in my life, mostly because they prefer caves and forests and such, but those I did meet looked shifty, had a smell of deceit about ‘em, and always seemed to feel like they were better than everyone else. Yer none o’ those things far as I can tell, so I think I can trust ya aboard my ship.” He put out a friendly claw, and showing more of his teeth, said, “Welcome to the crew!”

Sion weakly smiled, taking Frederick’s offer. Unlike his previous two victims, Frederick shook Sion’s claw slowly, as if he had to be more careful in his way of dealing with him. Sion thought better of it, thinking that Frederick was just being nice.

He took back his claws and stroked his chin, saying, “Just to make sure though, I’d like to ask what exactly you thought of me as I rounded the corner? Was I an expert steersman? A wonderful singer?” He fluttered his eyes and drew his arms close, attempting to look charming to Sion.

Sion cleared his throat, looking away. “Um…I think both are nice…in their own way…” He neglected to say that he didn’t see any of Frederick’s steering since his rope did all the work, and that his song, while effective, did not scream ‘handsome’ or ‘charming’.

Frederick nodded appreciatively, turning away and progressing towards his ship. “All aboard to the Forgotten Isles! No stops aboard my craft, so better take care of what you want to here!” He exclaimed. He splashed into the water and swam toward his craft, using his powerful tail to propel himself.

Ekon came close to Sion and whispered, “This is going to be a long trip…” He forced himself upward, drifting with the southern gale toward their ride.

Cosma looked up at Gaiden, saying, “He doesn’t really eat Pokemon, does he?” Gaiden shrugged.

“Who am I to say? He might just like eating feathers,” he replied. He entered the water gracefully, his thing legs pushing against the tides. He leaped into the air, and landed in the deep water with only a ripple, afterwards crossing to the ship.

Cosma sighed, saying, “I hope that Frederick doesn’t do anything nasty…” She then drifted over the tides toward the ship, floating low over the beating waves.

Ren rubbed his paw with a groan, saying, “He better not insist on an arm wrestling match with me. I’d sooner be stuck on that island with only you.” He gave Sion an angry look, then ran into the water, swimming as quickly as he could toward it, wondering why Ekon couldn’t carry him across.

Sion sighed, shaking his head. He didn’t know what to think of Frederick, except he seemed to be part lunatic, part wild Pokemon, and all mysterious in his actions. Still, Sion didn’t know if there were any other Pokemon with readily available ships, so Frederick was as good as anyone.

He stepped gingerly in the water, the chill setting into his fur. He deeply wished he wouldn’t have to swim, but with the ship only several hundred feet off the shore, it would hopefully be a brief experience. He progressed toward the deep end, his cloak floating on the surface, water rolling of the top. He began to kick, receiving some minor lessons in swimming years before, back when he wasn’t in Lucario Guild. Just as Ren did, he swam to the ship which would lead to their destination: The Forgotten Isles.

~~~~

Sion hacked out saltwater, glaring at Ren, who sat on a barrel next to the mast, scraping salt off his fur. Sion flopped onto the deck, crying out, “You did that on purpose!”

Ren shook his head, taking his knapsack from off his back, and peering inside. “Did not. That saltwater landed in your eyes because of your swimming, not because of my kicking. At least I beat you here.” He pulled out a soggy loaf of seedbread, sticking out his tongue. “Shame this ruined some of my supplies. Now I’ll just have to throw them out.” A devilish gleam entered his eyes, and he threw the wet loaf toward Sion. Sion gasped, crouching low, watching as the loaf splattered across the already-filthy deck.

Before he could say anything, there came a roar of anger from the stern, and a distinct thud in front of Ren. Before he could think, Ren had Frederick’s heaving breath in his face, the owner’s eyes glaring right at him. “Whaddayou think yer doing, dirtying my deck with that foul concoction! That’s my job!” He briefly turned away to sniff the bread, retching disgustingly. He turned back, saying, “It could’ve been meat at the very least!” Gaiden, Ekon and Cosma looked on from the stern, none particularly thrilled at the antics of their new captain or their recruit.

He shoved Ren off his barre and said, “Alright, it’s obvious I have to set some rules around here, considering I now have passengers. Number one: all edible items you have on ya must go to the cargo hold. Thanks to Lukas’ surprise summons, I had to forego my monthly resupply, which brings us to rule number two: Ya’ll are on rations, unless you want to join me on my…supplementary meals.” He scratched his tooth, ignoring the seething Lucario behind him. “Rule number three: As noted in my song, I’d prefer it if you don’t mention any potential changes to my mannerisms. While they’re disgusting to you Guild Pokemon, I’ll assure you that they are downright necessary for survival in the open ocean.”

He began stepping up the stairs and toward his wheel, saying, “Finally, Rule number four: I’ll assign ya’ll duties and other such things at my leisure. I’ve had to do everythin’ meself since the rest of my crew had to suffer an untimely end for attempting to leave me on the Isle o’ Regret with ole Mewtwo.” A guttural growl came after this, years of rage coming to the surface once more. “If my rules get broken, you can wish yourselves goodbye to goin’ to the Isles, and instead get a one-way ticket to Kyogre’s domain! Understood?”

They all agreed, with only one reluctantly.
 
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Sorry for the lateness, but here we are four chapters away from the conclusion of Act 1!

Chapter 16: Maritime Misadventure

Excerpt of Page 95 of the Explorer’s Guide: Technical Machines (TMs)


Technical Machines are crystal discs found rarely in dungeons, giving whoever recites the phrase written on it a new ability. Once the phrase has been said, the TM fades, and can only be used again if a Pokemon knowing a special ability known as Recycle renews it.

Matheus’ Notes:

I’ve never had the opportunity to use a TM, but Laryon did. It’s thanks to his Shadow Claw that we were able to escape that fateful day. Still, I wonder how things would turn out if I learned how to Attract? Maybe I could’ve ended up with a girlfriend? Probably not…

----------

Over the next week, Sion and the rest of the crew carefully obeyed Frederick’s orders, his threat ever-present in their minds. The comforts of Lucario Guild, and even land, were lost to them, the dilapidated, unnamed ship of Frederick’s quickly helping them realize what fortunes they had.

One day, Sion leaned against the railing of the ship, sick to his stomach. He had recently eaten lunch, accidentally encountering some rotten berries in his rations. Feeling that Ren was to blame—considering his spoilt supplies from their swim to the ship—he could do nothing but cope until the feeling subsided.

Frederick clapped his claws across his back, leaning in close, worsening Sion’s delicate condition. The Feraligatr’s jaw came next to Sion’ nose, worsening his pain even more with the stench. Gaiden looked on from the wheel, following the captain’s orders to keep their course toward the Mist Wall.

Frederick scratched his chin and said, “You look sicker than a Remoraid who chose the wrong Mantine! What happened to ya?”

Sion looked over to him, moaning. You happened.’ Sion wished to say, but chose not to.

Receiving no reply, Frederick set his mind into motion, trying to find a reasonable explanation. He smacked his lips, saying “You know, I look like you when I eat something I’m not pleased with. Berries and such. Too many of ‘em and my gut goes on edge, you know what I mean?” Sion nodded haggardly.

Frederick studied the waters below, searching for something. He pointed a claw down to the ocean, pointing at a particularly large wild Gyarados below. “That one will help ya out! Watch this!” He dove into the water, swimming vigorously toward the massive sea monster.

Ren, retying a knot on the mast for the umpteenth time, called out, “Did you push him into the water? I wanted to do that first!”

Cosma looked down from the crow’s nest, ending her lackadaisical nap. “Huh…what happened? Frederick’s in the water? Thank Tapu he is, I was afraid he’d never leave.”

Ekon poked out his head from below deck, exclaiming, “Someone finally pushed him off! A good spray of saltwater will do him good!” Gaiden sighed, leaving them to their fantasies.

A Gyarados erupted from the water, roaring into the air, writhing in fury. Ren gasped, slipping off the mast and hanging literally by a thread, a coil of rope wrapped around his leg. Cosma dove back into the nest, shivering in terror. Gaiden furrowed his brow, turning the ship away from the massive beast, while Ekon flew into the air and stared it down.

He squawked out, “Oi, we didn’t do anything…to…you.” He trailed off as he saw Frederick on the head of the Gyarados, snarling and clawing at the scales, taking bites when he could. All just stared in a mix of surprise, fear, and awe as Frederick fought the Gyarados.

He pulled himself to the face of the thing, and poked it square in the eyes, further enraging it. Frederick cackled madly, continuing to dig through the thick scales. He took a final bite of the beast under the surface, and the Gyarados roared out one final time, swaying in the air. Gravity gave way, and the massive carcass tipped to the side, laying parallel to the ship.

Frederick climbed up from below, picking his teeth. He spat out a tooth, snorting. “Darn, I liked that tooth. Ah well, another solution for an upset stomach conjured by yours truly!” He looked down, the blood of the Gyarados leaking into the water. “Now we just leave him to soak for an hour or two, then we skin him, take out he bones, then make a fresh, delicious Gyarados stew, a family recipe! Whadda you think Sion?”

Uncontrolled retching and a splash could be heard from the sickened Zoroark.

“Hey, why’d you have to do that? Now we have to wash it off!”

~~~~

On another day, Ren was in the stores, collecting rations for everyone’s meals. He dug through sacks of berries, seeds, and occasional strip of dried meat—reserved for Frederick of course—as he did so. All but Frederick took turns doing this, the captain claiming that due to his diet (and enormous pot of Gyarados stew to finish), it wouldn’t make sense to collect food he didn’t eat.

Ren muttered to himself, “’I’ve been captain for longer than ye’ve been alive, Auren, and that means I’m in charge!’ Just wait till I’m Guildmaster, I’ll show you then! Oh, I will!” He continued collecting, stopping at the sight of a bundle of leaves. He unwrapped it, setting aside the other supplies, and beamed at what lay inside: A miniature cake, perfectly decorated and wrapped with a few leaves. Whoever put it there had made the effort to hide it under the bags, making a small cavern in the hubbub.

Ren looked behind him, seeing that even Ekon wasn’t around. He grinned, taking the cake, and replacing it with a stale piece of bread, carefully rewrapping it as it was before. He looked to his sides, and stuffed it into his mouth, relishing the flavor of Cheri berry. After enjoying his early dessert and wiping away the crumbs, he returned to collecting supplies, bringing them up for dinner.

Later, when all began to fall asleep, Gaiden sat next to Ren on his hammock. The entire deck had hammocks, its original purpose to hold a vast crew, rather than five passengers. The night light shone from the porthole windows, the fringes of the Wall visible in the distance. Tiny lanterns hung from the ceiling, glowing with a soft orange light, dimly illuminating the deck.

Gaiden crossed his legs, saying to Ren, “Had a hard day at work?” Ren nodded, yawning.

Gaiden nodded slowly, saying, “I’m sure you disagree with Frederick’s mandated rations, wanting something to complement it. But soon enough we’ll be on a lush island with more berries than we can count. You feel like you can restrain yourself from doing anything rash until then?” He asked.

Ren nodded once more, stretching his arms. “Yeah, I know. Can you let me get to sleep? I have to up on the mast tomorrow,” he grumbled. Gaiden complied, wrapping himself in his own hammock, as Cosma, Ekon and Sion did, allowing Ren to gather a good night’s rest.

~~~~

Ren poked his head out of the hammock, the lanterns out and the sunlight new. He took a deep breath, the salty sea air entering his lungs. He felt like today would be a good day, despite Sion’s presence, Frederick’s insanity, Cosma’s childishness, and Gaiden’s attitude.

He hopped out of the hammock, immediately slipping on the floor below. He fell, landing flat on his back. Groaning, he noted how sticky the wet substance was after attempting to wipe it off. He stood up, crying out, “How in Equivos did this get here?”

Gaiden fell from the ceiling, landing on his feet. He crossed his arms, and said, “How’d you appreciate my dessert last night?”

Ren squinted, trying to think of what he meant, then realized. He grimaced, saying, “Oh…that cake was yours, wasn’t it?” Gaiden nodded.

“Indeed it was, and a piece of stale bread is a pretty poor replacement. I took the effort in bringing George’s cooking here in hope to share slices of it amongst all of us, but sadly I discover my surprise ruined. Consider yourself lucky that you didn’t end up in the ocean.” He turned away, ascending the stairs.

Ren stretched a paw toward him and exclaimed, “Wait, what is this stuff? You gotta tell me!”

Gaiden’s head shifted, his eye staring at the floor. “Let’s just say that my tongue is pretty efficient,” he replied.

Immediately Ren convulsed, renewing his efforts to rid the substance from his back and paws. “Eww, gross! You sneaky, no-good…” He lowered his tones, not wishing Gaiden to hear what he had to say. The Greninja continued to ascend the stairs, now with a slight smile.

~~~~

As Ren bathed in the water below with a rope around his waist, Sion worked in the training deck, under Gaiden’s watchful eye. He felt that Sion needed some more combat training, due to his conduct in the Elusive Woods a week before, so, pulling the Team Leader card, he obligated Sion to an hour of training each day.

Within the training deck was an assortment of wooden dummies, punching bags, and ring targets, with much of this equipment covered with scratches and bites. The walls were covered with scarcely a thing, dominated mostly by the dark wooden boards of Frederick’s ship, as the other decks were.

Sion slashed at his chosen dummy, one of the few with an intact head. Dark energy emanated from his claws as he struck it with Night Slash, Gaiden continuing to bark orders. “Left, back, front, strike! Left, back, front, strike!” Sion continued this routine of jumping to the left, jumping backwards, leaping forwards, then landing a Night Slash on his oaken opponent.

After many repetitions, Gaiden called out, “Enough! You may rest.” Sion dropped to the floor, panting heavily. He had originally that Victor Mienshao was a taskmaster, but Gaiden was an entirely new level for him.

Gaiden stood next to him, saying, “You follow instructions well, but you lack the ferocity. Most unlike how Ren approaches things.” Ren was also enlisted into this training regimen, but had been given a leave of absence due to certain events brought on by his instructor.

Sion nodded, looking to the stairs. “I just…don’t like hurting others…even if they’re…trying to get me…” He said between breaths.

Gaiden shook his head in reply. “I can see that, but still. In the distant past, Zoroarks used illusions to hide their lairs and scare Pokemon into them, to finish them off and consume them. You use illusions to frighten Pokemon away and if the events in the woods are anything to show for, you have a knack for it.”

Sion picked himself up, replying, “But I never tried using illusions like that before! It sort of came…instinctively, I guess.”

Gaiden didn’t reply, turning back to the dummy. He kicked it away, his powerful leg sending it spinning into the wall. He took a defensive stance, looking directly at Sion. “That dummy is too blockheaded to do anything about your attacks. Let’s see how well you do against me.” Sion stepped away, holding his arms in front of him.

“I’m not sure that this is—" He cut himself short as he narrowly dodged one of Gaiden’s kicks arcing back and watching it graze his neck.

He stumbled backward, astonished at his sudden move. Gaiden held his stance, furrowing his brow. “An enemy will attack you no matter what. Now fight.” He sent another kick toward his student, Sion now leaping to the right and coming behind Gaiden, hoping to land a blow. Gaiden swiveled around and knocked away his claw, leaping on top of him and pinning Sion to the ground.

He released his hold, wiping his hands. “Too predictable. You’ve got to do better than—" Sion sprung upward and slashed at him, his cloak billowing with the move. Gaiden stepped back, his soft body receiving only a slight nick.

His eyes widened as he saw Sion grin, his claws losing their dark aura. He said, “An enemy will attack you no matter what. Now fight.” Gaiden gave one of his rare smiles as he dashed toward his practice foe, their session continuing late through the day.

~~~~

Days later, Frederick slammed a fist on a desk, exclaiming, “This meeting starts now, according to my rules! Now, what should we do after we cross the Mist Wall?” They were speedily approaching the endless wall, the curls of mist encroaching on the ship. Sion, Ren and Cosma were ordered to stay below deck until they crossed, in hopes they didn’t suffer the fate that other ocean goers did: mysteriously turning back the way they came.

In Frederick’s personal quarters, the walls covered with various charts, portraits, and assorted decorations. His bed lay in tatters in the corner, a victim of many a night, his only other pieces of furniture was his heavily scarred desk and his few chairs, which he, Ekon and Gaiden sat on. The massive window at the back showed the Mist coating their ship, extinguishing the view of the mainland that for so long dominated it. The walls showed pictures of various Pokemon, one with a large gathering that appeared to be his crew, another with the three Guildmasters of Equivos, and more. Many completed requests hung on his wall, similar to how Gaiden and Ekon showcase their victories, albeit with less mess.

Ekon pointed to the window, saying, “Here’s the moment of truth. If we make it through and see the mainland up front, then we know that the Forgotten Isles aren’t for us. If we do make it…” He paused, thinking about what is to come.

“Ultra Beasts, savage Pokemon, and a trek up a mountain. That’s what we’ll have to do.” Gaiden finished.

Frederick snorted, eating stew from a bowl. He swallowed, then replied, “There’s no way I’ll be going with ya; me home’s me ship, and I don’t plan on leaving for some silly young ‘uns.” He crossed his arms, leering, “Asides, we haven’t discussed pay for travel.”

Ekon growled, saying, “We can’t trust you by yourself here; how’ll we know that you won’t go off without us?”

Frederick held his claws in the air and set another upon his heart. “I’ll give ye me oath that yes, ya can’t trust me, ‘cause I don’t trust you! That Ren obeys me just like I’d obey a little ole Squirtle! He holds no respect! I certainly wouldn’t put it past him to mutiny.” He shut his eyes temporarily, then said, “Also, you have a Zoroark in your midst. Now, I’m not superstitious or nothing, it’s that I can see it in the eyes that he has some relation to the Usurper. He looks all innocent and everything, but deep down in me gut,” he patted his belly, “I know something’s up with the kid.”

Ekon slammed the table, screeching. “He’s done nothing wrong around here! He’s followed your orders, put up with that bully Ren, and even put up with you as a captain! He has shown no signs of evil, unlike the Usurper!”

Before Frederick could reply with malicious intent, Gaiden pushed the two away from each other. “This has been a stressful two weeks for all of us, especially for Ren; he’s been so used to having special privileges as Lukas’ son for so long that he hasn’t had to be in the lower ranks like all the rest of us. We should give him a break.” He leered at Frederick and added, “But it is true that Sion does have Arthus as an ancestor, but I fail to see why that matters now, after so long of being a faithful Guild member, and as part of your crew as well.”

Frederick leaned back in his chair, looking to the window. “All I gotta say is that I don’t trust any of you. Not after what happened with my crew on the Isle o’ Regret.” He shivered, his ferocity fading from his eyes. “Even then I loved the thrill of war, but that was the darkest day of my life…having to kill every one of my crew for mutiny…” He gazed at the floor, frowning, his arms hanging limp. After a moment of silence, he clenched his fists and said, “The mist is gone now, so we’d better look outside and see if we got turned around.” He shoved away his chair and stomped to the door, leaving Ekon and Gaiden to look at each other curiously, following after a few seconds.

Sion, Ren and Cosma already stood at the bow, looking ahead. Frederick scurried up the crow’s nest, his telescope in his jaws. Ekon and Gaiden walked to their charges, looking ahead to see if the Tapu Islands lay in sight, or worse, the continent of Equivos.

Ahead, four bumps rose from the ocean bed, a pillar atop each. Dark clouds hung over them, with lightning flashing within. Nothing but the deep ocean could be seen behind them, a testament to the ship’s success.

Frederick grinned, looking through the scope. “Aye, it be an isle o’ plenty in the distance. Pretty dark at the moment, but I can see that this is an island I have never set foot on…upon Kyogre, what is that!” An enormous bolt of electricity struck the open sky above the island, and a sliver of dark light appeared. It wavered for moments, then ripped open with a scream, a wormhole opening in the air.

Cosma gasped, shrinking to the floor. “The Ultra Beasts…they’ve come!” a distant shape exited the hole, descending to the islands, no movement towards them apparent.

Frederick sighed with relief, shutting his scope. “I got a good look at the thing, and may I say, that ain’t right. Too…creepy and vicious to be a Pokemon.” He looked down in the water, seeing a darting white speck. He grinned, dropping his telescope and leaping off the nest, diving to where he saw the speck.

All watched as he chased after the darting speck, the Feraligatr surfacing with a wriggling white fish in his claws. It had blue markings on its sides, and it had watery blue eyes, the frowning mouth making it look perfectly pitiful as it wriggled feebly.

Frederick smacked his lips, sniffing the creature. “Ah, my first exotic meal on the Forgotten Isles! What a treat!” He opened his jaws wide, moving the fish to his mouth.

Cosma cried out, “Wait, don’t! That’s a Wishiwashi!”

Frederick halted, clamping his jaws shut, the Wishiwashi strengthening its resolve. “What’s the big deal? It’s just a little—hey!” Frederick cried. It sent a stream of water into his eyes, stunning the predator and forcing him to wipe away saltwater. He dropped his prey and the terrified creature swam away into the depths.

Frederick, after cleaning his eyes. Clambered on board and pointed an accusing claw at Cosma, exclaiming, “What’s the big idea! It’s just a harmless little morsel!” A deep moan emanated from the water, causing all to turn their gaze to the port side.

Cosma shuddered, saying in a whisper, “No…it’s not.” A dark blue fin surfaced in the water, then descended into it again, a moan emanating once more from below.

Frederick paled, looking over the side. “Did that little…Wishiwashi, turn into that?”

Cosma nodded. “With all its friends, yes,” she added.

Frederick beamed, clamping his claws together. “This gives me an idea…” he muttered, before the boat suddenly lurched.
 
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