Tides of Darkness - The Four Stones RP

[Neo Emolga]

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y109/Ultradyne/FourStones.jpg

INTRODUCTION

The Four Stones RP was created with inspiration from Pokémon Mystery Dungeon. However, even though it is based off of the game, it’s not necessary to have played it to get into the RP (And if you haven’t, I highly recommend it!). I’ve provided a map of world that is the setting for the game as well as the tagged locations. It’s honestly not that hard to tell what each location is like (Mt. Blaze is a volcano, Mt. Freeze is a snow-covered mountain and so on). Also, in addition to that, I’ve created eight other made-up towns and cities besides Pokémon Square, which makes nine in total. In the RP, the teams each have three cities supporting them and their cause.

For those who don’t know the storyline behind Pokémon Mystery Dungeon, this is a world totally dominated by Pokémon, and where there are no humans. Instead, the Pokémon themselves are the society. Meanwhile, in the game, the world is ravaged by natural disasters, and so a large amount of rescue teams were formed in order to help other Pokémon that have become the victims of these disasters. As for the RP, the number of natural disasters has dwindled down considerably, and a few rescue teams have disbanded due to the lesser demand.

POKEMON MYSTERY DUNGEON WORLD MAP

Included on this map are all of the locations that appear in Pokémon Mystery Dungeon (and I challenge you to find one that if missed if you really think I did!). Also, if you’ve never seen the map before, this is what it looks like:

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y109/Ultradyne/PMDMapLocations2.jpg

Also, if you have a question about the game, Wikipedia’s Article on Pokémon Mystery Dungeon ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pokemon_Mystery_Dungeon) may be of some help, but I don’t mind answering a few questions either.

Also, I know there are a lot of locations, don’t be intimidated by them. This is just so that if a location is used during the RP, you know where it is. Locations may also be built up as outposts at a later time.

(Also, to anyone who wants blank copy of the Pokémon Mystery Dungeon World Map, I have that too. Just PM me if you want it. It’s nothing more than a scanned image of the World Map that appears on Page 7 of the Rescuer’s Guide).

THE STORY SO FAR

Probably one of the most enigmatic rescue teams ever was Team Graywind, led by a Marowak named Clyde with his two most loyal companions, a Rhydon named Tank and a Sceptile named Virgil. The highest they had ever achieved was Platinum Rank before they had mysteriously disappeared during a rescue mission. Attempts to locate them and send out rescue teams to find them had failed, and many months later, the citizens had feared the worst for the team.

However, many of Team Graywind’s clients noticed strange aspects to Clyde and his followers prior to their disappearance. During an escort mission, a Smeargle had reported witnessing Team Graywind attacking a group of hostile Zubat with what he believed to be fire based attacks, even though he knew there was no way they normally could have been able to do such a thing. Other clients had also reported strange occurrences in the team, but not everyone believed them.

Three months after they had been given up for dead, another rescue team by the name of Team Razor came across the body of a dead Marowak, and not far from his location was his long lost supplies, which Team Razor was able to identify the body with. The cause of death was believed to be a cave-in, but that was only the beginning to the mystery behind Team Graywind. Around Clyde’s body was a strange bronze-colored residue, which Team Razor knew wasn’t a part of the cavern they had been in. They had taken back samples to see if anyone in town could identify the substance, but they had no luck with it. Their last resort… was to take it to Xatu, who ceaselessly rested on the summit of the Great Canyon. They weren’t sure what it had to do with Clyde and the rest of Team Graywind, but they wanted to know.

Upon bringing the grainy substance to Xatu on top of the Great Canyon, Xatu had felt a presence that had long been dormant many miles underground. He could feel a strong emanation of power from it, and it was later discovered by Xatu that Clyde and his rescue team had come into contact with what he believed was the Autumn Season Stone, a large stone said to contain a vast amount of power. He also mentioned the presence of three others, one for Spring, Summer, and Winter, all with immense power. However, that was all he could reveal. Where the stones were… was still a mystery.

During this time, the clans had begun to form. Many Pokémon citizens of the world had sought public leadership and organization. However, the arrival of Team Aqua, Team Rocket, DARK and Team Delta Green caused some disagreement between them with regards to how the other towns should be organized and led. Many of the other towns simply refused to allow another team’s ideals and organization to influence their way of life, and in return, they couldn’t understand their reasoning for wanting to follow another team’s leadership. The end result… was a bitter disagreement among Pokémon, and often led to violence. Loyalty to the teams has grown to a fever pitch, and their presence has pitted Pokémon against each other. The only way to solve it… was by force.

However, the surfacing rumors of the Season Stones escalated. What would become of their world… was in time’s hands…

THE SEASON STONES

The Season Stones are four large stones charged with enormous power, capable of allowing Pokémon to do the impossible. When the stone is used, the Pokémon who wants to use it needs to come in contact with the stone (Either by placing their hands, paws, or by pressing their bodies against it). Like water, the power of the stones is absorbed, and for all the power that enters the Pokémon drawing the power out of it, the stone slowly shrinks in size. Also, the power of the stones can be divided among several Pokémon for a small amount of power, or it can all be given to one single Pokémon, filling them with the full power of the stone and giving them immense power. However, note that finding the stones should take serious RP posting. Highly and strongly detailed RPing and teamwork is needed to search, find, and locate the stones themselves. Also, all four stones are deep underground. None of them are anywhere near the surface.

Usage Rates

Usage rates are measured by how the stone’s power is split between Pokémon. 10% means a tenth of the stone’s power is used on a Pokémon, which allows ten Pokémon to gain the same power. 25% means a quarter of the stone’s power is used on a Pokémon, giving the Pokémon much more power than one that would only gain 10%. And lastly, 100% means the entire stone’s worth of power is used on a single Pokémon, granting that one Pokémon incredible powers. So the big question is… to share… or not to share?

(Note: You can split it in ways so two Pokémon get 25% power (50% of the stone) while five others get 10% (The other 50%). Only getting 5% of the stone’s power (In the case where three Pokémon get 25%, two others get 10%, and the last only gets 5%) doesn’t have enough power to grant the Pokémon any additional abilities, so it is lost in the distribution.

Stone of Autumn – The Stone of Autumn contains the embodiment of fire and the ground. Meanwhile, the stone itself is a bronze/orange color, and has carvings of falling leaves.

At a 10% usage, the Pokémon gains the power to use all Fire and Ground type moves, even if they’re not Fire or Ground type Pokémon. At a 25% usage, they gain the power and ability to dig deep underground and easily move through fire and swim in boiling lava. At 100% usage, they have their Fire and Ground moves amplified, and they gain the ability to cause massive earthquakes and flash fires. (Power similar to Groundon)
(Any Pokémon that is already a Fire or Ground type has its powers amplified if they use the Stone of Autumn)

Stone of Winter – The Stone of Winter could be mistaken for a giant shard of ice. However, it is a deeper bluish color, and has carvings of snowflakes.
[Currently 100% Used] Recipient(s) – Lucied

At a 10% usage, the Pokémon gains the power to use all Ice and Water type moves, even if they’re not Ice or Water Pokémon. At 25% usage, they gain the power to easily to melt ice or freeze water. They also gain the ability to breathe underwater. At a 100% usage, they have their Ice and Water moves amplified, and they gain the ability to cause massive blizzards, tidal waves, and massive downpours. (Power similar to Suicune)
(Any Pokémon that is already an Ice or Water type has its powers amplified if they use the Stone of Winter)

Stone of Spring – The Stone of Spring contains the embodiment of new life. It appears to be a light green with multiple carvings of flowers.

At a 10% usage, the Pokémon gains the power to use all Grass and Poison type moves, even if they’re not Grass or Poison Pokémon. At 25% usage, the Pokémon gains full resistance to poison and also gains the power of regeneration (much faster healing rate). At a 100% usage, they have their Grass and Poison moves amplified, and gain the ability to unleash massive poison clouds, or can allow an entire forest to suddenly grow out of nowhere. (Power similar to Celebi)
(Any Pokémon that is already a Grass or Poison type has its powers amplified if they use the Stone of Spring)

Stone of Summer – The Stone of Summer is a bright yellow/orange color, and has the carving of a bright sun.
[Currently 100% Used] Recipient(s) – Neo

At a 10% usage, the Pokémon gains the power to use all Flying and Electric type moves even if they’re not Flying type Pokémon. At 25% usage, they gain a pair of wings to fly with, regardless of what Pokémon they are, and gain the ability to resist electric shock such as those from lightning bolts. And then, at a 100% usage used on a single Pokémon, that Pokémon not only gains the power to fly, but has their Flying and Electric moves amplified to the extreme, powerful enough to create tornadoes, hurricanes, and severe thunderstorms. (Power similar to Zapdos)
(Any Pokémon that is already a Flying or Electric type has its powers amplified if they use the Stone of Autumn).

CITY DISTRIBUTION

I feel one of the major things missing from Pokémon Mystery Dungeon are additional cities besides Pokémon Square. So, I created a few of my own. However, needless to say, these don’t actually appear in the game, but they will be in the RP. How the cities are designed and constructed is up for the RPers to develop. They don’t need to all look like Pokémon Square, but do consider the fact that a town created by Pokémon would look very different than one built by humans. Don’t plan on there being buildings over two stories tall, motor vehicles, or skyscrapers. You get the idea.

Just to avoid confusion, consider each city to be quite large. Even Pokémon Square should be considered to be nearly seven times the size it appears in the game.

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y109/Ultradyne/PMDCities2.jpg

Cities that appear in BLUE are supportive of Team Aqua

Cities that appear in GRAY are supportive of Team Rocket

Cities that appear in GREEN are supportive of Team Delta Green

Cities that appear in RED are supportive of DARK

DETAILS

In the RP, you role-play as a Pokémon. Even though the plot of Pokémon Mystery Dungeon focuses on you transforming into a Pokémon, in this RP, you’re role-playing as a Pokémon that has always been a Pokémon and has lived here their entire life.

You can begin as any Pokémon you want to, except for legendaries. Even Shinou Pokémon are allowed. Also, you can start as a fully evolved or unevolved Pokémon, but just know that in the RP, more evolved Pokémon can take more hits and attacks and still keep on fighting, while the advantage that smaller, unevolved Pokémon have is that they are more agile and evasive.

As for the teams, the citizens of the towns will support your cause, as if it were a miniature country. Also, don’t plan on there being many weapons. Most of the weapons in Pokémon Mystery Dungeon are sticks and stones. However, you can get inventive to some degree. Fairly simple contraptions (such as catapults, battering rams, or push wagons) could be created to help them in battle. Other devices of very simple engineering are also possible, but nothing that would require very intricate parts or has very high complexity. Also, forging metal is very difficult for the fact it is low in supply and has to be mined, something that Pokémon haven’t started doing. Most of what would be created would likely be made of wood or stones.

RULES

As with normal Role Plays, God-modding and Bunnying (See the Into Your Character’s Skin (http://www.pokemonelite2000.com/forum/showthread.php?t=13613) role playing guide for a complete description) are strictly prohibited. If there is a violation of these rules, the infraction will go punished to keep the integrity of the RP intact. Each infraction will result in a strike for each time a member breaks the rules. If the end result is three strikes, the member will be removed from the role play, making it impossible for them to earn points for their team.

Secondly, it is for the benefit of all that this role play is taken seriously. With that said, avoid posting very short RP posts. Short and downsized posts are detrimental and we would prefer not having them.

Neo Pikachu is the moderator of this RP, and will be in charge of judging and issuing strikes, if need be.

Recommendations

Read List of Movie Clichés by Genre (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_movie_clich%C3%A9s_by_genre) on Wikipedia. While it is okay to get inspiration from movies and film, keep these in mind. These are uncreative plot and design examples that can deteriorate your role playing if you happen to use them yourself. Avoid them whenever possible.

JUDGING

Individual RPers:

#1 Placement - 12 points are awarded
#2 Placement – 8 points are awarded
#3 Placement – 4 points are awarded

Team RPing Performance:

#1 Placement – 15 points are awarded

That’s all. You may begin now.

[Lotad]

OOC: I guess I'll start... again.
Colors: Abra (Casey), Grovyle (Ivel), Bulbasaur (Belba), Kirlia (Ria)

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IC:
Location: Mouth of Wish Cave

"Here," Casey muttered, handing the small Bulbasaur back the clipboard. The Bulbasaur held onto the pad with her small dark green vines, and held it in front of her face, looking it over. Casey looked up at the clear night sky, staring at the multiple stars that lit the sky. The moon shone brilliantly in the western sky, but overpowered the minscule light the stars could produce.

"All of this looks in order," the small Bulbasaur said, grabbing back Casey's attention. She smiled as she set the clipboard on her back, balancing it easily on the top of her bulb. "This is the most people we have ever had join Delta Green all at once. Usually we'd be campaigning in a city for a day, getting people, but this single meeting made almost half-of-the-town join."

Casey smiled, "Well, I am glad it happened to turn out well." He started walking away, the small little Bulbasaur following. "There seems to be more people in our town that are offering to help out an underdog team, than any of the other town that you have campaigned in." 'Still, I'm surprised neither my father, nor older brother wanted to join such an excellent team.' Casey though to himself. 'I still think there is something more the officials of this team are after, though I couldn't hear what they said.'

"You seem to be the drifty type of Abra," the Bulbasaur said, once again capturing Abra's attention. "You over-preoccupy yourself with your thoughts, and probably ignored everything I was talking to you about while you were thinking." Casey looked down at the small Bulbasaur, semi-confused at what she has said.

"Go figure," the Bulbasaur said, before running off ahead of Casey, in the direction of Jamacas. Casey took off running after her, only to stop running to the earsplitting sound of an explosion coming from the mouth of Wish Cave. Both the Bulbasaur and Casey stopped running, and looked back at the cave, seeing smoke puff ouot of the caves mouth. Some of the near by Delta Members started running towards the cave to see what happened, Casey and the Bulbasaur.

They pushed slipped by those that had arrived there first, and stood in the front, seeing smoke continuing to pour from the cave. Casey tried using his Telekinisis, but his mind waves continued getting interfered with people shouting for others to come, and trying to see if someone was in the cave. Casey decided focusing on the center of the cave's mouth, trying to see if he can catch a glimpse of any shadow.

"There!" the Bulbasaur shouted, pointing to a slowly forming tall shadow, being tailed by two smaller shadows. The tall shadow bursted out of the smoke, revealing it's long forest green body, with three dark green leafs attached to the outside of each of it's wrists, and a long one that started from the back of its head, and fell to its waist. Around the upper part of it's long arms, a bandana type cloth was wound around it; the material was colored forest green with a gold leaf on it.

"Ivel," some of the Pokemon gasped, seeing the Pokemon fall to it's knees, and breathing deeply, trying to gain it's breath back. The two other shadows that were tailing the Grovyle bursted from the smoke. The one to the left of Ivel was a small raccoon-like Pokemon, with a light brown and white coat that seemed to be standing on ends, it's small claws were slightly tucked in as slowed to a stop, before collapsing, gasping for air. The shadow to the right was Ivel's pre-evolution, a Treecko; it's body was a light green, and much more reptile like than the it's evolution, but the tail was a large bushy green color, making it stand out more.

"What happened to you three?" a small voice questioned. Casey and the Bulbasaur looked in the direction of the voice, seeing a small head, that looked apparently layered with green hair, that fell down the center of her face; two small red horn like objects protruded, looking almost like ears. Ivel looked up at the small Psychic Pokemon, seeing the worry written on her face.

"A scared Voltorb used Explosion, causing a chamber in the cave to collapse," Ivel spoke, continuing to gain back his composure. The Treecko to his right nodded, before gulping in air, trying to get it's breath back; the Zigzagoon though had collapsed completely, and had fallen asleep. Ivel slowly got to his feet, but feel back to one of his knees, because of his legs horribly shaking.

"Did you provoke the Explosion from the Voltorb, or did it just explode on its own, Ivel," the Kirlia asked next, knowing about Ivel's flagrent attitude, and the need to defend himself, even if he wasn't provoked. The Grovyle looked down, knowing he was busted, but looked back up, glaring at the Kirlia. The Kirlia ignored the glare completely, even though it was staring directly at Ivel. 'Those two sure know how to stare each other down,' Casey thought to himself, laughing quietly at it.

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OOC: I loved this post, so I had to make it first... ^^

[Finch]

OOC: Then I guess I'll continue... again!

This post really was important, as will be the next few, in outlining our plans. I'm having to re-use it completely.

IC:

Mt Freeze ~ Near Marinas

A tall and proud Hitmonlee was standing at the summit of Mt Freeze as a chilling wind swept by. He didn't know it yet, but some of the harshest trials of his life were facing him now. His name was Finch, and he was the leader of Rescue Team Aqua. Gathering around their leader, Pokemon were huddling together to keep warm. Finch didn't need to. He didn't feel the cold. All he felt up there, at that summit, was freedom.

"Well," said Finch, "is this everyone? I was expecting more..."

A shady-looking Golduck, an Admin of the team, approached him.

"Sir, we're still waiting on Aidan, among others."

Hmm... I wonder where he could be...

Not wanting to waste any more time, Finch began his speech.

"Aquas," he began, "you have been summoned here today because you are the best. You are the true leaders of our organinsation. While you may not know it, I'm sure some of you have felt it. The time of War will soon be upon us. The Teams of Rocket, DARK and Delta Green are showing signs of hostility over the territories of the region. Soon enough, they will want to seize what is ours. Well, I say, let us take what should be! Let's show them that we're the team deserving of rule over this fine land!"

Several Pokemon cheered, others nodded in quiet but absolute agreement. They all shared the same dream- a world where no Pokemon would feel frightened or alone. Aqua would surely provide a safe haven for all Pokemon with their rule. However, Finch's ambitions went a little deeper than that. He'd love the chance to lead a nation, and run it the way he wanted. His control freak side was beginning to break free. His intentions remained true, but as any historian will tell you, power can have a strange effect...

[Neo Emolga]

OOC: Might want to edit my name out of there, Finch. :P

Lesalas, Training Grounds

It was an honor to have earned such titles. But like all teachers, students were like seeds. They would one day grow into the strongest and tallest of trees. I was their watcher… their overseer, their liege…

We weren’t very often referred to our real names, mostly for protection, secrecy, and as honor. My closest family members knew me as Neo, and my faithful companion Narsaka, a majestic black Donkarasu. To my comrades and compatriots within the Dark Angels: Renegade Knights, Naraska was known as the Shadow Phoenix, and the name given to me was very often “Chief,” among my officers, and “Nightwing” among my fellow members of the Windblazer clan, a small sect of the Dark Angels.

Windblazers were the lifeblood of the DARK aerial forces, a tactic designed solely by me, Chief and Nightwing. I was their commander, their teacher, and their overseer, fully in charge of Windblazer operations and attack procedure. As any Windblazer had known, it was the tactic of using Pokémon riders upon Pokémon that could fly, for instance, a Charmander flying upon the back of a Swellow. Together, they gain more power, and they protect, trust, and fight hand in hand, heart in heart as one mind. They had crowned me as the father of Windblazers, the majestic unity of Nightwing and Shadow Phoenix.

The tagline they often addressed me with as an ultimate sign of respect for being a teacher and commander was “Hän joka pitäisi olla siunattu avulla sivukulissit,” which literally meant, “He who should be blessed with wings.” Among the Windblazer clan, those with wings were considered to be blessed, hence why we regarded our flying mounts to our sacred companions. However, unlike even while wildest dreams had created, this tagline had actually changed from a sign of respect… into a goal. The quest and search for the Summer Stone was of high priority to them, for it was known that the stone was filled with enormous power, the power of wind and lightning. To the one that had put their hands on the stone and absorbed enough of the stone’s power, they would be blessed with the power of wind and lightning… and with a pair of wings. From what they had said… if I had absorbed enough of the stone’s power… I could race around even the mighty Zapdos.

Originally, it was not my intention to seek the stone, but one of my high officers Nathaniel, often referred to as Spirit Feather, insisted that this was an omen. However, I also warned him that we were in the middle of a grave conflict that needed our full attention without distractions. But, there were also others… out seeking. As for myself, I continued the lessons as a kind of Sensei of sorts. It was religious training that made them as swift as they were…

Many ranks of Pidgeots, Swellow, Mukkuhawk, Fearow, Skarmory, and there was one Aerodactyl among the group. As common practice, it was common to dye their feathers and body black as dark camouflage for night strikes. As one captive had described, our attack “was as if the night shadows in the sky had flowed like water, and had suddenly lashed out like whips and flails in a castrophany of etheral pyrotechnics.” I could never forget such… substance like that.

The riders had also worn black cloaks to hide their appearance. I, myself, would abstain from showing off my bright yellow color to give myself away. This was key, it was a practice I insisted on doing. We would no longer be recognized as a threat, but only as “shapes” before it was too late to realize an attack was happening.

This was my role in the upcoming war. I must protect my homeland…

[theEND]

Sky Tower - The Edge of the Lower Edge

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~ Sky Tower is an amazing mark of the world which all Pokemon, especially those that have wings, respect, and desire a triumphant display of victory from. To reach the peak clouds of Sky Tower is an even more daring task that with the slightest sound wave at the brink of a moment, dozens of Pokemon inhabiting Sky Tower will come rushing towards the cause of the distinct disruption in molecular interferance, with only seconds and if you're lucky, minutes to get away from that spot fast. All this in reality is no exaggeration, but the truth. Another fact is, even though many Pokemon have claimed the title of "One Who Reached the Top", there is usually a chance that they won't make it down so safely without one, but many injuries.

Around the corner, Thoonsheeo, my best, best, most best friend in the Pokemon world comes back with supplies of berries and gummies for us to devour on. My stomach growled angrily as I have yet to eat in 2 to 3 weeks, training ferociously in my own little plains near Beau Plain. Ordered by the head command, we were sent to Sky Tower to see if we could possibly recruit some of the tough, strong, buff Pokemon who lived there comfortably on the cushion white puff wonders. Thoonsheeo seemed as though he had been running away from something terrifyingly powerful, or just plain terrifying.

"What's wrong?", I asked my pal once I walked right next to him.

"Run! There's an angry group of-"

We were interrupted by what seems a beam of pure, heated energy that created a large hole in the cloud puffs under us. A rather large, sky blue dragon figure with maroon hued wings and parts on his body was the one that fired the beam, namely a Salamence. While observing it in mid air, I noticed its wrinkly face expression that told me straight out of the blue without any words that it was infuriated, obviously.

"Tch!", I snapped as I took something out of my scarf on my neck.

It was an oval shaped object that ended with a point on one side, had tannish, white, and possibly light yellow natural coloring, and a soft, yet also rough at the same time, texture. It came to my mind that was I pulled out had a smudge of Cheri Berry goop that I make everyday, and I purposely did smudge it for my own reasons. Mainly for indication. I put the entire thing into my mouth, chewed it ferociously, and swallowed, gaining a tremendous amount of agility. I took grasp on Thoonsheeo's scarf, and forced ourselves to move in mid air. We both landed back on our feet, but I had to not waste anytime, so I just ran like heck through a random direction.

"W-What d-did you e-e-eat?!", Thoonsheeo asked me trying to speak clearly while he and I were traveling at the speed of light.

"A Quick Seed. About the 7th one eaten today. New record, eh?", I said.

"N-n-nevermind that n-now!"

I followed Thoonsheeo's request and got the heck out of there. After a 20 minute run in random directions, while also going up any available and found staircases, we finally stopped and I counted the total number of floors we went up.

"Ok, so we were still on the 5th floor, 18 plus 3 carry the 1........we're up at the second to last peak floor right now."

"Oh dear Ho-Oh......but still, there are bound to be some strong Pokemon here. Maybe we can round some up. After all, I did get enough Escape Orbs for at least 12 of them. Also, I brang enough Official Aqua scarfs and badges!"

"By the way, how did you get that Salamence and possibly any others to come at you crazy?"

"While I was gathering berries and gummies, I found this gigantic Blue Gummi right next to a sleeping Salamence. I couldn't resist the thought of leaving that juicy, huge, and nutritious giant there for the Shedinja to finish off after days, so I got in there, and grabbed it. Turned out there was a Sound Alarm Trap, and I fell for it. It woke up the pack of Salamence, Flygon, and other flying Pokemon there, and they felt dead mad at me for grabbing their lunch."

"Do you still have it?"

"You betcha'!", Thoonsheeo said, happily grabbing out a Blue Gummi two times larger than the average Charizard.

"H-how did you......how did it.....nevermind."

Thoonsheeo then began biting and ripping off pieces of the soft Blue Gummi exterior with his mouth, and literally dug into the soft, creamy, and jelly like interior that was like a bunch of home made gelatin. I'll let him off being so happy, wouldn't really want to ruin the moment with anything logical. Just let the Mudkip enjoy his favorite gummi. As much as I didn't want to notice it or anything, I just had to keep staring at the big lump of almost entirely aqua-marine food shaped like a jelly bean only to wonder how in the world my Mudkip friend stored it into the Toolbox without the it even bulging out a bit, or me even noticing it for the 20 minutes.

"Hmmm? You want some?", Thoonsheeo asked me, poking the over sized Blue Gummi which I suspect what mutated by experiments that those insane Sky Tower Pokemon executed, or either that they magically combined thousands and thousands of regular Blue Gummies.

"No thanks. I'll just help myself on this Sky Gummi."

"Suit yourself. Awrrawwrawwrawararr!!!", Thoonsheeo exclaimed, making horrible, primitive sounding sounds that made an impression on him as to be some frozen Pokemon from millions or billions of years ago that was thawed out not too long ago.

I looked at the swollen Sun for a moment only to catch a glimpse of how big and round it is. Even from where I am gazing at it, it's quite big enough to make me feel like a small, red dot on the World Atlas. I took another bite into the Sky Gummi. After swallowing the bite, I was about to take another bite only to bite my finger and shriek in pain.

"Wha-what happened to my Sky Gummi?!", I shouted as I stared into my hands, searching them for the lost, half devoured natural gelatin.

I knew I still had at least half of the gummi still there, ready for me to chomp down. I then took a look to my right to find a greenish and yellowish creature with bright red natural trimmed wings extending its head to where it would be able to go to the extent and nerve as to take my Sky Gummi, even when I didn't finish it. I stared in fear as I saw the creature next to me and to find out that it's one of the highly regarded Dragon Type Pokemon to be a power house, a Flygon, namely.

"Arr?", the Flygon curiously observed as it finally noticed my Charmander self.

[TVTMaster]

OOC: Time to start RPing. At least this time Delta Green will have more RPers. I'll steal Milos's thing and color code the speakers.
Eretan
Rowan
Customs Cloyster

Joyous Tower, Jamacas

Eretan grunted. The summons from Delta Green had come in. Crouching, he closed his eyes and braced himself. "Hiiiii-yah! The last load!"Rowan, Eretan's energetic little Hayashigame brother, charged and shoved a heavy piece of equipment onto Eretan's back. Eretan stood in a shallow pit, while Rowan pushed heavy objects onto his back from ground level. A squeaky-voiced Minun began to work, throwing ropes and cables around, and tying the vine tethers into place with electricity and dextrous hands. Eretan felt only a slight tingle as his ground type dischargers funneled the electricity into the ground. The loads were secured to his back, and the Minun scurried away with the last of Eretan's spending money.

It had begun with an anonymous summons from some high branch of the Team Delta Green facility in Tanaska. The request mentioned an event from Eretan's youth: the gang rule of Free Haven. Concerned, Eretan agreed to travel to Tanaska, with Rowan in tow. Rowan's coming was not Eretan's idea, obviously, as the only thing Eretan knew him to be good at was talking, but the writer of the letter seemed obsessed with meeting the pesky Hayashigame. That and the promise of routine under the orders of Delta Green was enough to coax him out of the contruction of the new Torreki Naetoru family house, and to the busy center of Tanaska.

"Eretan, we're ready to go! Let's go to those Delta Green people! Hey, I wonder if they caught the Free Haven gang! Or maybe they want to perform medical experiments on you! By kidnapping you with aliens! Or maybe they want you to save the world! Or rescue a fair maiden! Hey, are we there yet?" Eretan took a moment to process what Rowan had said. Something about aliens? No, that couldn't be right. Fair maidens? Impossible. Saving the world? Wait. Are we there yet? They hadn't left. "Rowan," he paused: "We're still under Joyous tower. It'll take us hours to get there." Rowan stopped to think. Tilting his head, he asked: "Are we there yet?" Eretan sighed. He clambered out of the hole, and allowed Rowan to climb onto his back.

After a journey of mere minutes, Eretan stopped to drink A congregation of pokemon was having a party of some kind. Meanwhile, Rowan's constant stream of chatter progressed, causing Eretan to shut his eyes and ears to his surroundings. "Hey, Eretan, have you ever evolved? I evolved once. It was awesome! I was like, all white, and then suddenly I was all big! And I was different! And everybody started cheering for me! Hey, this is cool! Hey, lemme have this! Okay RAAWWWWWWWWRRR!" Rowan's head stared upside down at Eretan's face. Opening his eyes, Eretan saw a false Toridepusu mask staring at him. A young Cyndaquil started to sniffle, and soon it was bawling, running around for comfort. Cyndaquil are weird. Rowan replaced the mask, leaving it hanging upside down on the child's face. It stopped crying abruptly, and sat down and began to fidget with the mask's position.

A cluster of warehouses appeared on the horizon as the sun set. The island between the main continent and the island of Jamacas came into view. As Eretan approached the bridge, a loud voice penetrated the unusual silence. (Rowan had occupied himself with an oddly shaped clump of dirt.) "Halt where you are! I have all authority to prevent you from crossing unless you are under the banner of the Delta Green!" A Cloyster in a ticket booth filled with water spoke into a microphone. Eretan studied the possible means of getting by. There was telling the truth, but a little nagging feeling about not actually being part of Team Delta Green yet told him no. Instead, he casually ignored the guard, who had accidentally turned himself upside down in yelling at the "intruders". He floated helpless, screaming obscenities and the occasional insult at the pair. "You BEEPs! Come BEEPing back here! You can't BEEPing leave me here! BEEP BEEP BEEP!" Rowan, upon hearing the first of the Cloysters screams, plugged his ears.

[Sceptile Frost]

~Mt. Freeze, Near Marinas~

Aidan was late.

That thought rang through his head, crashed against his skull, and raced about his mind.

And why?

He shrugged off the thought, rushing up the zig-zagging switchbacks that led to the top of the moutain, an icey pinnacle capped with ice.

He shivered. Why did being a Charmander make him act like this? Why did he always find everything to be so cold?

He shivered again, fatless skin vibrating rapidly. He looked up, always up. For why would anyoen but a fool wish to look down at the jagged mountainside below?

Aidan lowered his head and walked forward.

[Knightblazer]

Mt. Freeze

The icy winds howled through the chilling area of Mt. Freeze. Few Pokemon scampered here and there, mostly to find an area to hide from the cold gales. It there where a lone figure trudged through, the tips of its midnight fur now encased in an icy blue bristle. The Mightyena sighed deeply as he walked on, the gales blowing to reveal the twin streaks of crimson running down the sides of his raven fur. His skin was strangely even paler in contrast to the white snow and it didn’t help that his own fur was in the darkest shads of black imaginable. He was actually Lucied the Mightyena, a mercenary in employ of DARK.

Lucied sneezed quite comically as he searched the area for his target. Of all times, that Ratatta chooses to get himself stuck in a blizzard like this? The wolf mused to himself. Ho Oh bless his poor soul then, he thought wih a small smirk to himself as he scanned the landscape of glaring white. The raging snow was making it quite impossible to see, but no matter. The Mightyena has been in situation direr than this. Such was the life of a traveler/mercenary after all. With a short sigh, the raven wolf continued his arduous task. Soon, he spotted a shade of purple and went there, surprised at the sight he saw.

Big ears… long tail… found stuck in some ridiculous situation… yep, that’s Stucky the Ratatta, Lucied confirmed to himself mentally, sighing as he went up to save the purple rodent.

Quite sometime later…

“My baby!” cried out Mother Raticate in sheer relief at the sight of her stunned –but otherwise safe- son. The crowd gathered there exploded into cheers towards the noble wolf, who was rather surprised at the sudden crowd. Grinning slightly, the Mightyena got himself out of the place, heaving a huge sigh of relief. These missions were making him get too much unneeded attention. Another point I’ll have to say to the Chief, Lucied thought glumly to himself. Everyone in DARK knew that the chief, head of the Windblazer clan, was a little… odd, for the wolf's taste at least. But still, he was one of the three heads… ah well. With a mental shrug, Lucied went on his way towards Lesalas, home of the Windblazers as well as the Chief (which was what almost everyone else addressed him by).

Knightblazer

[Neo Emolga]

Lesalas, Training Grounds

One hundred more Windblazers at my command, all looking up to me. For months, they had trained to become connected to their mount in mind. This link would allow them to fight as one, as if one body capable of both amazing and even unpredictable things.

A scout, a Charizard by the name of Shank had approached me before I had begun conducting the lesson.

Greetings, Chief, hän joka pitäisi olla siunattu avulla sivukulissit,” he told me, bowing for a moment, “For I feel in my heart you will join the manifestation of the winged sacred very soon. It is your destiny to become the stuff of legend…”

I didn’t know how progress was going with the Summer Stone, but still no word. However, in my own mind, I still felt we were very distant from finding the relic. I knew Lesalas was known for major Windblazer contributions to the DARK effort. I felt… odd… watching them construct a statue of me riding Shadow Phoenix… while having a pair of my own wings. Everyone around me truly believed it would happen… but I was still skeptical.

“May blessings be with you on your search…” I told him, still feeling strange about it, “You will find what you seek in time. Dedication and determination yield the most bountiful fruits of labor.”

He had soon departed, leaving me with the rest of the Windblazers in training. While they had become one, they needed to fight as one, and the best way to try that was through some target practice on a field I had prepared for such an occasion. Each rider had to pass through the course, and destroy all five targets, three of which had to be destroyed by the rider, and two of which had to be destroyed by the mount. The targets were simple, just flattened out paper against a bolder. However, the presence of trees and hills made the course a bit more difficult. Now, I had to watch each rider attempt the course, and assess their performance. It’s happened in the past where riders that had successful hit all five targets did it with a terrible form, incredibly slow speed, or had problems with accuracy.

The first couple riders were substantial, making very few critical errors. Nothing fancy or perfect, but they would be ready for battle. The six had difficulty, he missed the two targets his mount was supposed to make. And when they were finally done, I could say 80% of the class would be ready for the strikes to come. The other 20% would need to begin from the very beginning again, and I figured in most of these cases, either trust or trying to come to an agreement was too difficult for them.

I was still proud with the passing rate, but passing this first training exercise was only just the beginning. I had made sure this process was perfect, and that our Windblazers would be ready to unleash their true potential…

[Dr Scott]

Jamacas
Helping a Friend in Need

Toc’s the Sandshrew opened the door to the small abode, carrying a bowl made from half of a coconut shell. Inside the bowl was a strange looking soup, Toc’s own specialty. “Are you alright?” he asked the sole occupant in the small hut.

The Clefairy named Elliot changed her position in her small bed, a mattress shoved full of straw. “I feel much better, thanks to you and your friends.”

Toc’s handed her the bowl, watching as she took a sip of the soup. When he saw the look of satisfaction roll across the pink Pokémon’s face he smiled. “Any good Pokémon would have done it, we were just the one’s there.” He then reached into the small pouch that he carried with him, taking out some leaves. “After you’re done, chew these up and then rub the salve on your wounds, it should heal them the rest of the way.”

Elliot took the leaves, putting them to one side of her as she took another sip of the soup. “You’d be surprised,” she said, “some Pokémon nowadays …” She smiled warmly, “I’m so glad that you decided to come here and check out the Delta Green meeting we have planned, I’m sure you’ll love it!”

“Well,” Tocs said, “I thought I might as well give it a try. It wouldn’t hurt, plus you said there was free food there.” He laughed warmly, “Will I see you there?”

The Clefairy nodded, “I’m going to give a little speech, trying to encourage some of the folks here to join up. So far it has been going pretty well, but we’re hoping to drag a few more into our cause.”

“And what is your cause?” Chris the Mankey asked, entering the small house with an apple, taking a large bite out of it. Another bite finished it off, and he tossed the core back outside with a strong overhand motion.

“You’ll just have to go to the meeting to find that out,” Clefairy replied.

Chris shrugged his long arms, “Don’t know if we’ll go or not, we might be out of here by then. You look like you’re fine.”

Tocs turned to his friend, “I already told her we would …”

Chris gave Tocs a significant glance that was full of many things, looked at the Clefairy and back to Tocs. It was then that a look of realization hit him, and he nodded. “Ok, I guess we can do that. It better not take long though …” And with that said he turned around and walked out of the house.

“What’s wrong with him?” Elliot asked, rubbing the salve from the leaves on her wounds.

“He’s a cool guy,” Tocs said, “He’s just not the best with words. But he was the one to actually beat off the Raticate that was attacking you.”

“Well,” she said, “Tell him thanks for me.”

“Will do. I’m going to go now, let you get some rest. I guess I’ll see you tonight.” And with that said he turned to leave, looking around Jamacas for his friends.

[Neo Emolga]

Lesalas, Neo’s Quarters

Assessing each Windblazer’s performance individually was difficult, as no two of them were the same, even if the rider and the mount they used was the same as someone else’s combination of rider and mount, even though that in itself was very rare. I did my best however, and for the most part, I was proud with their performance overall. Considering how fresh they were, they had come far in little time.

I had gotten a status report soon enough, however. Some of the scouts had returned, trying to find intel as soon as they could. Luckily, I had already finished with today’s lessons. They were about to prepare our evening meal before the dusk, and I was calmly waiting in my quarters. The room was just the way I liked it, very similar in style to a Pagoda with very comfortable bedding spread out and small pieces of wooden furniture. It was the perfect place to relax... especially after spending so much time outside with the training.

Nynx, one of the leaders of DARK intelligence had approached me. For me, it was hard to tell whether her news was good or bad, since Nynx was a Bellossom, and out of every Bellossom I’ve seen, they always look cheerful.

“Neo?” Nynx asked me, wondering if this was an okay time to come in.

“I’m fine.” I told her, beckoning her to come forward, “What do you have?”

Slowly she had approached me, still being more formal about this than I really cared for. She dusted off a few of the green and yellow leaves that surrounded her and then began.

“From our known reports, forces from Delta Green seem to be amassing out west, while we have detected Team Aqua presence to the north.” She laid it all out, “And… as you already know, Team Rocket continues to linger on to the northeast…”

“Right on Lightning Field…” I remarked, still annoyed they robbed me and my family of our homeland, “I know Seratine is preparing defenses, hence why I’ve had to train so many new Windblazers. Seretine is loaded with them, but I head they’re still trying to work on the Stonewall.”

Nynx looked down for a minute…

“The city looked better without it…” She remarked.

“Well, this isn’t the time to be worried about aesthetics.” I reminded her, “Besides that, where is Spirit Feather? I asked him to supervise over the Windblazers in Seretine.”

“He left Shank in charge of that…” Nynx relayed to me, “He… badly wants to find the Summer Stone for you, Neo. They all do. I haven’t seen a single Windblazer that wouldn’t like to see you lay your hands on that stone, and yet out of all of them… you seem to be the least interested in it…”

I looked down. I knew what the stone was capable of, and inside, I did want to see it before me, but not at the expense of organization. I left the Windblazers in Nathaniel’s stead because they looked up to him. And now, they were looking up at a commander that didn’t like my orders and instead liked basing his organization off of fantastical thinking. We had no idea where the Stone of Summer was, I couldn’t imagine how he could be out there searching with nothing for leads…

“Thanks for your help, Nynx.” I told her, relying on advice, “Right now, territory is the only thing that makes us look like an enemy in the eyes of them. Holding our ground is the best key at this moment, but for now, I’ll keep training the forces.”

“Understood, Neo.” Nynx replied, turning back toward the chamber’s exit.

When she left, I was silent. I couldn’t understand Nathaniel though, when he had absolutely no leads. However, they were all doing it… for me. But, I didn’t want to be worshiped, I just wanted people to obey orders for the sake of our land and culture…

[Finch]

OOC:

Mt. Freeze
Huh?

Isn't that place swarming with Aquas?!

IC:

Mt Freeze ~ Nr Marinas

"I know it seems a little sudden, and I know very well that you may not feel prepared for a full-scale War with Rocket, DARK and Delta Green. However, I also know that you're only kidding yourselves. Our team is the most worthy and powerful rescue force there ever has been, and every one of you have proven yourself in adverse situations. A War will just be like another large-scale rescue op. You have my full confidence."

He smiled. While the tone was altogether more hushed now, he could see respect in the eyes of his followers.

"There is one task, though, that will be both vital and incredibly difficult to complete. The rumours you have heard about the four "Season Stones"... the rumours are all true. I have felt it, the changes in the natural order. It's the same feeling I had on the night I lost my dear parents to the sea. If we can obtain these stones, it will be a breeze to defeat these new enemies and also no mean feat to avert and even prevent future disasters. Yes, the Stones will be of utmost importance to our plan. Our dreams will soon become a reality."

Finch was using the words "we" and "our" a lot, something he wouldn't usually do. It seemed that he wasn't telling his Team the full truth, even though none of them could tell. Not even rust.

"You will divide into squads," said Finch. "In these small teams of 4 Pokemon each precisely, you will be assigned to one of our major missions."

Finch unrolled a scroll which had previously been strapped to his back.

"Mission A," he said, pointing to several cities on a map, "will involve scouting in the enemy territories. We want all the intel possible on each team and the stones. We could even learn new info on these four sacred stones from rival team members. The key, here, will be to remain on guard and alert."

He then pointed to the Aqua territories of Marinas, Terenas and Darakee on the map and said, "Mission B will involve the building and training of our forces here in our land. We need to prepare both for defense and for making the first strike."

"Mission A will be lead by Faiyitsu, when he arrives," he said. "Mission B will be under rust's control."

A Ratatta chirped up from somewhere in the middle of the crowd.

"What do you mean, sir? What about you?" it said.

Finch replied after a few moments of hushed thought. "I will stay here for the time being, but I have other business that I will eventually have to attend to."

The mish-mash of colourful faces all became suddenly wrought with surprise and confusion. Not wanting to leave them in the dark, Finch carried on.

"I will oversee all of your work while I personally train here. If there are any problems you will report to Faiyitsu, rust, or whoever is leading your team. They can let me know if necessary. Now, I think I've covered everything."

Without saying another word, the rugged Hitmonlee turned and entered a cave, where a fire was already crackling and blazing.

[Neo Emolga]

Huh?

Isn't that place swarming with Aquas?!

OOC:

Mt Freeze is pretty big, you're on the summit and he could be on another side of the mountain. But yeah, you two would be very close by.

[Finch]

Mt Freeze is pretty big, you're on the summit and he could be on another side of the mountain. But yeah, you two would be very close by.

OOC: OK, I can deal with that. Just as long as he knows he's in our territory, and there's a chance he could be found by our forces.

[Lord Celebi]

Private Aqua Headquarters, Mt. Blaze

Finch had briefed me in everything. Several fighting Pokemon were training in the background, in the intense heat. The heat only hardened the troops... It didn't hurt them. Fire Pokemon were training inside the lava... learning how to withstand the burning heat for reconaissance missions... so they cannot be seen.

Water Pokemon were combining their water with the lava to create steam shrouds... to escape more efficently. Poison Pokemon were bottling their specific poison into bottles for use in combat. Grass Pokemon were sharpening their Leaf Blades, as a battle hardened Sceptile named Seaust, instructed Grass Pokemon in attacks like Razor Leaf and Leaf Blade.

I stood in the center of it all, sitting in a chair especially designed for me. I crossed my scythes, dripping in poison from Seviper, Dokurogu, Dorapion, Arbok, and Sukatanku. With each drip, the poison turned into a venomous purple steam on the volcano floor.

The missions had all been planned and advised by myself. Finch, as my... puppet... delivered them to the troops. We now have scouts in enemy territories while our Pokemon trained to the maximum extent here.

A Hitmontop fell to the floor. Exhausted, he panted and cried from his mouth like a lost Skitty.

"Get up!" I shouted, raising my head slightly from the thinking position I was in (OOC: Gendo Power!).

"I'm... I'm..." The Hitmontop released the contents of its lunch onto the volcano floor. The liquid slop evaporated quickly, filling the volcano with a noxious smell, "Too..." The Hitmontop continued its vomiting... "Tired..."

"Get UP!" I shouted. I used an Extremespeed, an attack passed down in my family from crossbreeding, and attacked the Hitmontop. I sliced across its chest before it could even blink. Its chest was now a gaping hole filled with purple poison.

"You die..." I said. The Hitmontop writhed in pain, "Now!" The Hitmontop froze. A Blissey checked its pulse. Dead...

"Let this be an example to all of you!" I said, shouting, "Those who refuse to train for Aqua will all die. You made a commitment to bring power to us, and I WILL see to it that your word is seen through... to the end..."

[Knightblazer]

Mt. Freeze
En Route towards Frosty Forest

“Damn,” the Mightyena swore softly under his breath as he quickly ducked under a bush. A passing guard had walked past, eyes trained to spot intruders. The raven wolf padded noiselessly towards the edge of the bottom of Mt. Freeze, careful not to get himself carelessly spotted by anyone from Aqua.

I should have known better than to come here, the wolf thought glumly to himself. The fact that he was walking in hostile territory did not occur to him until someone in the crowd mentioned about the team. Aqua, I remember they were called, Lucied recalled in his mind before frowning thoughtfully. He remembered clearly now; Team Aqua, the renegade team whom most of the others in DARK addressed with utter disgust. I really shouldn’t have come here… the wolf chided himself as he scampered away from the mountain. Then again, I really should remember where I am in the first place, he added as an afterthought as the raven wolf entered the Frosty Forest, shivering slightly as snow began to pound on him.

“But then… I really like the snow,” the wolf muttered to himself as he watched the ivory crystals descending upon him. A few landed upon his nose, but he shook them off and looked at the long journey back. Well, time to head back, he thought. With a shrug (mentally and physically) the wolf padded on the snow, and thus began his long journey back to Lesalas.

Knightblazer

[Dr Scott]

Jamacas
Delta Green Meeting

After a quick vote between the four friends, they all decided that they would indeed go to the Delta Green meeting. As it was, Chris had another apple in his hand, but instead of eating it this time he was throwing it up and down into his hand. Leon the Hypno was twirling his pendulum around his finger while John the Pidgeotto tried to keep up, his wings folded across his chest. Toc himself was at the back of the group, watching Chris’s apple go up and down.

After a while Leon stuck out a hand, stopping the apple in mid air. He used his mind to float the apple to him, taking a large bite out of it. Chris rounded angrily on him, “Hey, that was my apple!”

Leon laughed mentally, each of the friends hearing the laugh in their mind, “You weren’t eating it, so I thought I would.”

Chris folded his arms across his chest, “I was going to …”

“Going to try to take it back?” John asked, laughing in a high pitch. The last time that happened Leon had blown the Mankey back with his mind, knocking him out in one blow. Chris hadn’t went at Leon since then, but it didn’t stop everyone else from making fun of him for the mistake.

“You watch it,” Chris said, pointing at the bird, “Don’t think I won’t go after you.”

Toc couldn’t help but laugh as well, “You know as much as I do he’d just fly up and you’d be unable to hit him.” When the his friend turned his gaze to him, Toc continued, “And I’d just burrow underground. It’s pointless to attack any of us.”

Chris frowned, “Just don’t mess with me if you don’t want to wear an eye patch on your other eye.”

“Hey,” John said, “that’s not funny.”

Chris winced, “You’re right, it’s not. I’m sorry Toc.”

Toc nodded to his friend, “Hey man, it’s okay.”

And that’s when they arrived at the place where the meeting would be taking place. There were already various Pokémon around the area, each of them talking excitedly amongst themselves. Toc and his crew easily blended in with the crowd.

A while later a Bellossom walked onto the podium, which was basically something that had been put up so that they were above the audience and easier to see. “Hello, new recruits of Delta Green! How are you doing today!?” she intoned loudly.

Various roars came up from the audience, it seemed that the only ones who weren’t adding to the noise was Toc and his friends. They merely shifted uncomfortably, giving each other small looks.

The Bellossom spoke a good twenty minutes before a few more guest speakers came up, each telling the crew a bit about Delta Green and its history, goals, and other various things. An Ivysaur told the recruits that a bit after the meeting and Jamacas was one at the mouth of Wish Cave that they could go to if they wanted to.

Finally, Elliot came up to the stage. The Clefairy smiled, “Hello everyone, my name is Elliot. Last year I was a new recruit like all of you. Delta Green is easily the best group of them all, they really do take care of their members. Not only that, they are the only one’s who actually care about their members. Unlike the tyrants from Aqua, we help out those in need.” She went on a bit longer, talking about what it was like to be new recruits. The whole time she was looking around the crowd, winking at Toc when she finally saw him. After the meeting was over she came barreling up to the Toc and his friends, “So, what’d you think.”

“It was boring,” Chris said.

John the Pidgeotto nodded, “True, but the part about getting paid for doing various jobs is intriguing. We can’t just travel around like we are now, we’re running out of money. This way we can make money while traveling around.”

“We’re still thinking about it,” Leon said to Elliot.

Elliot nodded, “I understand, these kinds of decisions take time.”

Toc saw Elliot’s look of sadness and added “But we’ll check out the meeting at the mouth of the cave too. What’s that one about, anyways?”

“Oh,” Elliot said, as if remembering something important, “The leader of Delta Green is lost, and they think it’s somewhere in there.”

“The leader himself?” Chris asked, “Maybe we can get some special deal if we save him.”

“It’s decided then,” John added, “We’re going to the meeting at Wish Cave to see if we can help out any. See you there guys!” With that, John opened his wings and flew into the air, heading to the cave. The rest of the team all took off running in hopes of catching up with the bird.

[Neo Emolga]

Lesalas, Training Grounds

The Stonewall in Seratine was still being constructed. For now, we were using cement, and a common tactic we employed was taking sticks and logs and sharpening them into spears, and then putting them along the wall, making it more difficult for Pokémon to attack or try and scale the wall. But, we still were trying to figure out a way if there was some possibility of making it stronger.

My problem with Nathaniel was trying to come in contact with him. If he really insisted on doing this mission, then I wanted to know how things were going. The amount of communication was terrible, but regardless, I still wanted to focus on keeping a forward approach. We needed defense at the moment. For many years, DARK had existed in a peaceful state, but now we were facing threats from other clans. I was… very content I was able to become a part of DARK… after Team Rocket had pushed us out of our home. They gave us the offer to join them… but we rejected it. Rather than facing death or submission, we left… and at the perfect time.

Delta Green was another clan we were keeping a close eye on, but for the moment, they didn’t seem hostile… at least not like Team Aqua to the north. However, there was no telling what would happen.

In the meantime, I prepared to start today’s training. The perfect Windblazers would take years to prepare, but being in this kind of situation forced me to “crash-course” them to the point where they would be excellent in combat, but not the best. Not like some of my previous students that continued to strive to be excellent Windblazers were always still training themselves to be a few of the best. However, I was always regarded at the best Windblazer in their eyes… since I was constantly training others, and was always perfecting my example.

Tomorrow would be our day of resting. But… I still had thoughts… about the Stone of Summer. Naturally, I wasn’t one to crave and relish in power. Power was responsibility that needed concentration and dedication to properly maintain… as well as undistracted discipline. But… my fear of it was… if we weren’t the ones who came upon the Stone of Summer, someone else in time might get it. I began to feel like it was a power I needed to take upon myself, not just for the respect of my comrades… but to make sure that what they wanted me to have… was something that no one else could obtain.

I was concerned now… but a sudden desire to show interest in the Stone of Summer would only encourage them to look harder. Leads were few and far between, the most I knew Nathaniel was going off of were relations. Where would such a power be resting? Its that what needed the connection. I was waiting for the day Nathaniel would come back with some bearing as to what was going on…

In the meantime, I got my things ready for today’s training. Tomorrow… I would find myself joining Nathaniel. Before I left, I had given a note to a loyal Pelipper and sent it to find Nathaniel. It was to urge him to come back so I could help him. Also, I needed information regarding how his current progress was going in trying to find it. No doubt, I figured he would be back soon, and I was looking forward to it.

[Finch]

Mt Freeze Summit
Near Marinas

Finch was in a deep meditative state when the flapping of wings from outside awoke him. This bird, a Farfetch'd, was one of his oldest friends in the team and had been around even longer than rust. However, he preferred to keep a low profile, so most Aqua Pokemon didn't even know of his existence. He set himself down by the fire and grasped his leek, which he had been carrying in his beak.

"I have news."

Finch nodded. "I can tell. What is it, Seamus?"

"Well, sir," said the distinguished brown bird, "Mission A is going surprisingly well. While we haven't found anything on the stones yet, a squad being led by Tamaska spotted a DARK scout group in Darakee. They stood down to avoid conflict."

"A wise move," Finch concurred.

"Furthermore," Seamus continued, "Yana's team saw a lone Mightyena heading towards Frosty Forest right here, on this very mountain. He's being followed."

"That's excellent," said the Hitmonlee. "What of Mission B?"

The Farfetch'd took a moment to frown at his feet, like they'd committed some terrible act. He returned his gaze to his Commander's eyes, so as not to appear rude.

"rust..."

"Captain rust."

"Yes, Captain rust... he's been asserting himself in a rather aggressive manner again. Slashed a Hitmontop right open and watched it die. One of our own."

A fire began to burn in Finch's eyes. "Send him to me. Don't go to summon him yourself, though, you're too valuable. One of the new flyers in Marinas will do."

"Consider him summoned."

[Knightblazer]

Frosty Forest

“Letmesee… there’s DARK, Aqua, Rocket and Delta Greeeeennn…” Lucied half-muttered, half-sang to himself as he trotted along the forest path. “Each wants to get the stones of Seasons, yeah, that sums up this bloody conflict,” he finished up glumly with a small curse. “Spring, Summer, Autumn, and –ACHOO!- Winter,” the wolf added the last part as an afterthought, snuffling as mucus blocked his snuffle. This was sooooooo not a good day to have a blocked nose. The Mightyena thought to himself as he walked, a sudden rustle in the bushes some distance from him snapped him to full alert.

A spy! His senses told him. The wolf blinked stupidly, then realized what was happening and looked up towards the bright, blue sky, a stupid-looking grin forming onto his face. It was time for plan ‘B’. Dropping himself onto the snowy ground, Lucied never complained once about the cold snow or chilling winds – he was a mercenary after all. But now, it was time to take in the simple pleasures of life. Looking up towards the clouds, the Mightyena simply looked at the clouds as they floated by, the fluffy white against azure blue.

The Mightyena smiled to himself as he continued to watch the clouds. Patience was never anyone’s virtue, after all. He would use this and wait for his ‘followers’ to stop, for Lucied himself was a patient creature. He could wait.

“Ah…” he exclaimed with a sigh, “just now cool Mother Nature is!”

Knightblazer

[Neo Emolga]

Training Grounds, Lesalas

In the skies, one needed to be able to make excellent maneuvers even at very fast speeds. Again, another target practice in a different field this time, a much harder one. Those that could pass this… were considered newborn Windblazers prepared and ready for combat. Those that couldn’t… would have to repeat the lessons from the very beginning. Most of those that didn’t make didn’t even mind doing so. The only problem with it was… it was more difficult for me. For some, they wanted to become a Windblazer but just weren’t made for it.

This time around, the success percentage was even less than before, but in the end, it left us with seventy-five new Windblazers that I felt were ready to engage in combat. The other twenty-five had to go through the lessons again, but it wouldn’t be after the Solace, what we called the two days of rest. However, I had met with Ridge, a Quilava that I had trusted to be a very efficient Windblazer. He… seemed surprised to see me, but he knew it was important.

“Ridge, I need for you to train the Windblazers in my stead after the Solace.” I told him, knowing I needed to follow Nathaniel, “I’ve decided to help Nathaniel on his mission to find the Stone of Summer, for several reasons. I feel wrong forcing others to find it for me, and I need to watch over Nathaniel. I would feel better if I knew where he was…”

“But… Neo, I’ve never evened trained Windblazers before…” Ridge told me, “I just can’t measure up to what you’ve done…”

I figured his response would be something like this. However, I knew how I first got into the process of teaching others…

“Start small.” I told him, letting him take the same path I did, “Start with the twenty-five in training that didn’t pass the final test. You carry out the second lesson, and you’ll get a feel for what I’ve been trying to do.”

“Okay…” Ridge replied, looking down and thinking about it, “Good luck to you and Nathaniel though, hän joka pitäisi olla siunattu avulla sivukulissit.”

I closed my eyes for a minute in meditation. Still, I knew Ridge and how he would be able to handle this. Maybe… this was just the beginning for him to become one of the best teachers we had…

“You will do well, I know it.” I told him, and then I headed to the gates…

Nathaniel would be coming back soon, I just needed to wait now. I… was concerned though, enough to need to talk to one of DARK’s experts. Aradesh was an Alakazam, one of the best officers we had in DARK’s defense. But, unlike the Windblazers, he was more of a ground infantry officer, dealing with intelligence and scouting. But, there was other information he had that I wanted to know…

“Ah, Chief, how goes the training?” Aradesh asked me, looking down at me amicably.

“Not as well as usual, it’s hard to keep at it without… these distractions…” I told him, feeling a bit embarrassed about it.”

He shut his eyes in concentration, and then looked back at me.

“Ah… they were wondering why…” Aradesh replied, giving a little smile, “Every Windblazer I’ve come in contact with wonders why your interest in the Stone of Summer isn’t nearly as strong as theirs. I see… you’re worried about it.”

“Its power is intense…” I told him, knowing he was already reading my mind, “I’m… not sure if I would be able to contain in all. I’m… also not sure if the sudden surge in power would affect my mind. I’m not sure… if it’s safe or not…”

“As with all things, this sudden change will feel foreign to you at first.” Aradesh told me, knowing what could be the result of it, “However, it is wise for you to seek the stone. If you do not take it, our enemies will. And even if against your own will, your comrades respect you too much for any one of them to take the stone’s powers upon themselves instead of you. My advice to you is to go with them. They will come soon, and don’t worry about Ridge. He will become confident in his ability to teach future Windblazers in time…”

I felt better about it, even though I knew the search would be long. Not to mention, there was a chance we would need to head into dangerous enemy territory. However, I was prepared to do it…

[Lord Celebi]

OOC: I'm already in trouble? :P
IC:
Mt. Blaze

"Sir..." An Alakazam came up to me and began to report, "Finch has summoned you about the Hitmontop incident."

"What of it?" I asked.

"He is... unhappy with your treatment of one of our own. He sent a Pidgeot for you to go to Mt. Freeze... Its only a short distanc-" I cut off the Alakazam.

"I'm aware of the distance from here and Mt. Freeze. Its on the damn horizon," I said, poising my blade to attack the Alakazam, but thought better of it. I lowered my arms as a Pidgeot grabbed onto my shoulders and began to fly me to Mt. Freeze, "Seaust," I said to the Sceptile, "You're in charge."

"Sir!" The Sceptile said, continuing to train the troops.

"Deviss," I said to the Alakazam, "You're coming along too..." I said, "Teleport there. I'll be there in a jif..."

The Pidgeot then increased its speed to Mt. Freeze. The mountain became closer and closer on the horizon, as I left the bubbling lava of Mt. Ember behind. It gradually began to cool down as I had gone from extreme heat to extreme cold.

Below, I saw the Frosty Forest. Ice Pokemon were running around in the trees, foraging for food and hiding from predator Pokemon. Too bad they're not in Aqua. Unused potential.

Mt. Freeze's Summit immediately became bigger as the Pidgeot dropped me from high in the sky. I hit the ground, coming out unscathed from my fall. I walked up to Finch.

"You requested my presence?" I asked, sitting on a rock and crossing my arms in a thinking stance...

OOC: Can Mt. Freeze's location next to Mt. Blaze justify the quick travel?

[Neo Emolga]

OOC: Yeah, rust, there’s pretty close so I wouldn’t worry about it.

Lesalas Entrance

Aradesh was patient, a discipline so important… but few had. However, I stood by his side as I waited for Nathaniel to arrive back. I was looking forward to seeing him again, as well as anything new he had found about the Stone of Summer.

As smart and as intelligent as Aradesh was, I didn’t covet that kind of power. There were things that Aradesh knew that I didn’t, while I had many skills and abilities that Aradesh himself would never be able to harness in his lifetime.

And then finally, Nathaniel had returned. He was… unusually pleased for a Sneasel. Still, along with him came fourteen other Windblazers, all very content I would be joining them. As usual, Nathaniel was willing to welcome me with open arms.

“Hän joka pitäisi olla siunattu avulla sivukulissit,” He told me with a proud air around him, “Words can not express my gratitude for you deciding to join us, Nightwing.”

“My gratitude for you all is the same.” I told him, knowing how strong this bond was, “I appreciate all the respect and acknowledgement you’ve given me.”

However, there was the mission at hand. We needed to be quick about it, for I knew we were already running out of time with hungry enemies on our backs…

“What have you found regarding the Stone of Summer?” I asked Nathaniel, wondering what he was able to find.

“We’re looking at three distinct locations where… it’s possible the Stone of Summer may be resting.” He told me, laying it out, “As you know, the stone is a composite of thunder and wind, and so we have been looking for locations that match these kinds of characteristics. All of them are out west, starting with Mt Thunder, Thunder Meadow, and… your homeland of Lightning Field. We’ve only been doing scouting and this is how we found these places. However… searching all of them… would take an enormous amount of time.”

Three possible locations. I tried to remember way back when… before I had left the Lightning Field. I was pretty sure I had seen everything to that place, not to mention we would be trudging deep into Team Rocket’s territory, where we would likely be attacked on sight. I closed my eyes and focused. If there was really something in Lightning Field, chances are someone in my family or in the area would have known about it.

“Let’s not search Lighting Field.” I told him, feeling very confident about that, “I know that if the Stone of Summer was really there, someone among us would have found it. We never would keep secrets like that from each other…”

“I understand, and I’m glad you were able to tell us that.” Nathaniel responded amicably, “What about Mt Thunder or Thunder Meadow?”

I thought about them, but I may have only looked upon them before moving on. We were going to have to search them both…

“I don’t know…” I told Nathaniel, “Mt Thunder is on the borderline of Team Aqua territory. Meanwhile, Thunder Meadow is directly in the heart of Delta Green’s territory. We would have to make this a very secret operation. My thoughts are to investigate Mt Thunder first… before things with Team Aqua get any worse and they defend the area far too well before we find the stone. Right now, the borders are still undefined. Let’s head into Mt Thunder before Team Aqua seals the area off forever.”

“A wise choice.” Nathaniel responded, “We must hurry then. Get Shadow Phoenix and we’ll be on our way as soon as possible.”

I didn’t waste another second. I had quickly made my way to the Windblazer aviary and had summoned Narsaka. Like Nathaniel, he too was pleased to see me again. However, I let him know how quickly we needed to fulfill this mission, and so once I had found Nathaniel again, we were off, heading into the skies…

[Finch]

OOC: I hope you'll permit the tiniest amount of bunnying to move the conversation along. I haven't made you say anything, rust.

Mt Freeze Summit
Near Marinas

It wasn't long until rust had arrived at the summit. Rather than flying, he seemed to have teleported the short distance there. Ever impatient, he sat down on a rock inside the cave.

"You requested my presence?"

Finch frowned. While rust had always been a useful and insightful ally, the two never truly saw eye to eye. Even now, rust's tone seemed a little harsh. He was somewhat arrogant, like he thought himself to be above everyone, even Finch himself. It was a little unnerving, but mostly it was pathetic.

"I did, rust," he said. "You should know already that I'm not happy."

rust just stayed there on his rock, not saying a word. He wasn't showing any remorse, despite the fact that he'd just killed one of the men who needed him most right now to lead them. It was sickening. Deep down, though, Finch knew he needed rust too. He was the greatest tactician the commander had ever known, and had thought the team's way out of a tough spot on several occasions. This kind of insolence would not be tolerated even from someone of rust's importance, and he planned to make that clear.

"You're a great member of our team," the Hitmonlee began, "but I'd hate to see you demoted or thrown out over another incident like this. Please, in future, just keep the random acts of violence to an absolute minimum, and save it for the enemy. Your energies would be much better used in helping our recruits than killing them. Understood? Well, just get back in there and help your fellow Aquas, and I'll be expecting a report soon. Dismissed."

Finch sighed as rust left, and decided it was time to make a visit.

[Neo Emolga]

En Route to Mt Thunder

The entire flight, I couldn’t help but think about the whole result of this mission. I looked at Narsaka’s wings, and I let myself imagine wings of my own nestled upon my back. However, I tried hard to put it out of my mind. I did not know how successful this search would be, there was a possibility we could over turn every rock and pebble in Mt Thunder only to realize the stone might be in Thunder Meadow instead. Or… in the worst case… maybe in none of these locations at all…

It was hard, but I had my other followers here with me, supporting my decision all the way. In the distance, I had seen the mountain itself, with several forks of lightning thundering above the mountain itself. I also knew… this was the home of Zapdos. Rather than trespassing on Zapdos’s grounds, I had decided to make peace with him, and let him know of our mission. Maybe… by some silver of a chance… he could help us if he saw our cause was honest. I didn’t seek Zapdos as an ally, as I knew he would already strongly disagree into getting into the affairs of the new clans…

And then again, Zapdos himself was sacred among us, being blessed with the gift of flight. I knew… one would not retaliate those who only mean to be respectful…

With that, I headed toward Mt Thunder’s summit.

Mt Thunder Summit

It was a strange and foreign place, but at the same time, very familiar. Dark, stormy skies above, and a summit of brown and gray stone all around us. We had stopped upon the rocks, and dismounted, continuing to gaze upon the restless sky. The other Windblazers were in awe with how thunder and lightning seamlessly lit the heavens with a life of its own. However, I knew these sights were familiar with Lightning Field. It was beautiful in my eyes, while the others seemed to be almost fearful of it. However, I tried to assure them that this was nothing to be afraid of.

And then… we heard a scream…

A loud shriek pierced the sky, and the others had taken cover while I stayed out in the open. I wasn’t afraid of this, I knew that this is what we had come for. Suddenly, the thunder intensified, and as I looked up into the sky, a bolt of white lightning had come thundering down toward me. Immediately, I discharged a Thunderbolt to repel the strike, and with a violent clash of thunder, both forks of electricity were dismissed. Shortly after, I had looked up, and Zapdos flew above us, looking down upon us with its dark glare, flapping his jaggedly-edged yellow and black wings before coming down upon the mountain. With another loud shriek, another storm had originated right from Zapdos, but after it had passed, he then turned toward me, the only one that had not taken cover like the others.

“You show no fear.” He spoke to me, finding it a bit surprising, “You are either very brave or very foolish. Now why do you tread upon my grounds, Pikachu?”

“My name is Neo, from the Dark Angels: Renegade Knights.” I told him, looking into his white eyes, “We are searching for the Stone of Summer, a relic containing the power of thunder and wind. We believe the location of the stone may be somewhere here, but I feel it is necessary to request your approval before searching these grounds…”

To say the least, Zapdos was slightly surprised. I could sense that many hostile Pokémon have been all over this mountain, but none of them have been as straightforward as I have been.

“It’s unusual anyone asks for my permission first before coming here…” Zapdos replied, “However, I know nothing of this stone you speak of. Why do you seek it?”

“In our dynasty, we consider all creatures blessed with the power of flight to be sacred… even you.” I told him, regarding him respectfully, “It is a privilege that… we wish we could all have. However, the Stone of Summer has been foretold by Xatu to contain such a massive amount of power to give any Pokémon, even those that have never known what it is like to sail through the heavens… the power of flight. It is this power… that I seek…”

Zapdos was unusually quiet. However, I could sense in his eyes that he truthfully never heard of the Stone of Summer himself. His expression told me of one that wondered how such a thing could even be possible, but still, he looked back to me and made his point clear.

“You are one of the very first that has come before me without fear and with total honesty.” Zapdos replied, “Although I have seen every corner of this mountain myself, you have my permission to search it… as long as you leave it exactly the same way you came.”

“I promise I will.” I told him, giving him my assurance, “And thank you for your understanding.”

He had glanced at me one last time, and then took to the skies, flying back into the raging, restless clouds…

I wasn’t very keen on the fact Zapdos had already told us that he found no trace of the stone anywhere here. But, I wasn’t going to give up yet. By some chance… maybe there was a place here… that even Zapdos didn’t know of. Still, I would keep Zapdos’s advice in my heart. If I had done a preliminary search and still didn’t find anything, I wasn’t going to spend my entire life here.

I then turned back to the rest of the Windblazers, and focused on the task ahead…

[Finch]

OOC: I'm going to "do a rust" and borrow some of your ideas, Neo. Haha.

Mt Freeze Summit
Near Marinas

It was rumoured that Articuno, the legendary bird of ice, was residing in the Frosty Forest at the present time. Perhaps this was why the Mightyena they had spotted was headed there? Anyway, Finch had seen this Pokemon previously, and while brief, he was sure that his meeting with Articuno had saved his life back when it happened. After all, the hope the shimmering silver-blue snow that glazed the night sky gave him was enough to keep him going til he reached the shore. If only his parents had felt that same glimmer of hope...

The Hitmonlee decided it best to keep his excursion a secret, even from Aqua. Especially from Aqua. After all, he would need to keep a low profile along the way, and he had to be sure that his cover wasn't blown. It was lucky that no enemy scout had ever survived, since it meant nobody knew who he was besides those loyal to him. Well, not lucky, more convenient than anything. He wouldn't even tell rust or the other Captains. He would just have to slip off, and hope to return before too much chaos ensued. He pinned a note on a piece of parchment to the cave wall, in a well-lit place.

I will be gone for a little while. Captain rust is in charge of the team, so do as he says if you value your own lives.

See you all soon,
Commander Finch

Hoping that Seamus would be able to keep rust out of trouble while he was gone, Finch broke into a gentle jog down the mountainside in the direction of the snow-covered trees.

[TVTMaster]

Alright, I've read through the posts, so I'm going to RP my way to Thunder Meadow on a DG suspicion that DARK would be searching for it there. Or rather, the fact that Neo said he would look for it there. Then again, the Stone of Spring is really the only one that wouldn't be found at one of the bird mountains, but still... Oh, and I couldn't find Thunder Meadow on the map, either. I don't have MD, so I don't know if it should be there, but...

Tanaska Center, Tanaska

Eretan
Rowan
Pin'orcen
Cub
Shann (Delta Green Enreuido)

Eretan had reached the checkpoint for the heart of Tanaska, the main city. A bored-looking Scizor waved him through, and Eretan got a first-hand look at the splendor of Delta Green's central city. Gardens ran on the borders of properties, and beautiful fountains bent light, creating a seemingly idyllic area. As Eretan neared the heart of the city, the decor grew more bland, with stone mats being pulled on wheels by uniformed Machop. Standing on the platforms, Eretan felt the Machop strain to carry his weight. They must not have had many large pokemon this way. Eretan passed under a stone arch, and a gleaming building of wood and glass rose up from the blandness of the internal city.

Rowan was stunned, but as usual his mouth was set to cruise control. "Hey, Eretan, those Machop look like they need a break. Hey, that building's big! What's that shiny stuff? Oh, that's glass! Like hot sand and stuff! I want hot sand! I have a glass thing at home! Except it's small! Hey, that building's big! Eretan, I want to go there!" After mulling over Rowan's words to no avail, Eretan was about to dash his hopes against the wall when a green-clad pokemon began speaking. "Civilians Eretan and Rowan have been summoned to the Central Tower!"

At once, a mad scramble to the Enreuido erupted. Pokemon left and right, claiming themselves to be the pair spoken of. The Kirlia evolution obviously knew who the real pair was, and numerous pokemon recieved a harsh blow from the enforcer, who made his way toward Eretan and Rowan. "You two. A Dotaitos and Hayashigame. With me." Eretan, confused, complied. "With me. To the large access tunnel." The Enreuido brought Rowan and Eretan to a large chamber, with silently working Machoke pulling along the slates. Rowan's mouth began running again.

"Hey, where are we? Hey, this is big! Look, Machoke! I wish I was a fighting type! Hey, who are you? Are you a fighting type?" "Yes, but I--" The pokemon was cut off. "Yeah, I thought so, and you're a psychic type and stuff and that's so cool! And I bet you're the president! Of the king! Of the world!" The Enreuido shut his mouth. Rowan followed suit. Eretan opened his. "Excuse me, sir, but could you... um... how to put this... commence briefing?" The pokemon smiled. "Yes, you have been summoned by a successful agent of Delta Green to his quarters. That is all the available information." Eretan shut off, making the rest of the trip uneventful except for Rowan's blabbering tongue. Until the shaft raised.

A team of four bulky Machamp threw the slate upward, and the jerking stone shook Eretan and Rowan up. A lighted shaft seemed to go on forever, and the rocky platform went straight up at blazing speed. The Enreuido seemed prepared, and it used Psych Up to keep its balance. The speed of the platform slowed, and the Enreuido jostled the pair onto a ledge, just before the slate fell to earth and shattered on the unfazed Machamp. "This way." The pokemon led the pair to an office with a brick red door. The door opened, with extra panels sliding out of the way by a system of vines and pulleys. Eretan had never seen technology on this scale before.

The door opened. A Kingler sat in a warm, shallow pool, looking over papers and sorting mail. It looked up, an barely perceptible grin spreading across its face. "Eretan! Long time no see!" Eretan stood shocked, and the Enreuido introduced the Kingler. "Eretan. This is Pin'orcen. He has been expecting you." Eretan stood shocked as his childhood friend scuttled to meet him. "Pin'orcen-- how-- what-- why--?" Pin'orcen laughed a hearty laugh, and waved his claw. A gesture of greeting. "Eretan, I know it's sudden, but I had to see your little brother!" Rowan opened his mouth, but the Enreuido moved quickly to silence him. With another laugh, Pin'orcen ordered: "Shann, let him speak."

Big mistake. As Rowan began to pour out words, Pin'orcen's laughs slowly graduated to grunts. "... and so you're Eretan's friend? That is so cool! Like, can we be friends?" The Kingler, with an exasperated expression on his face, replied: "Yes. Eretan, I'd like to introduce you to Cub." Rowan stopped talking. An unprecedented phenomenon! From under a pile of yellow papers, a bright looking Elekid popped out, bowed, and introduced himself. "Yo! Good to meetcha, teamie!" Eretan looked confused, and Pin'orcen offered an explanation. "Why you're here: I'm recruiting you for Team Delta Green. Any officer is authorized to recruit any Delta Green civilian at any one point. And I need you."

"But-- what--" Eretan paused. "It's great to see you again. But why me?" "And me!" Rowan piped. "Because I'm a solo agent. But I need to guard Thunder Meadow from any kind of search for the Summer Stone. Possibly finding it myself. And I'm not the type to survive dryness combined with thunder. And you're a ground type." Cub started to make undiscernable hand motions toward Pin'orcen. "Oh yeah-- Cub's here to act as a technical and strategical specialist and as your 'hands' in a way. The electric type is a plus for Thunder Meadow." Eretan continued this discussion, ignoring the departure of Shann and the mouth of Rowan. The rescue team had formed. Next destination: Thunder Meadow." (If you don't find the Summer Stone on Mount Thunder, you've got me to deal with, Neo.)

[Neo Emolga]

OOC: TVTMaster, you wouldn’t be able to know that DARK was intending on searching that area. You’re basing your post off of reading mine when you did not bear witness to any of those events or conversation. That's... technically god-modding, because while you know, your character wouldn't...

Mt Thunder, First Floor

I had already been told by Zapdos himself that every bit of this mountain had already been seen by him. And Nathaniel was convinced we should be moving on. However, I wanted to make sure one thing was true before we really did move on…

The part of it was, we were searching the first floor. Everyone was looking at the walls and above for anything, but I was more focused on the ground. True, we could scale the mountain but it has already been done many times before without any discovery of the stone. So, I felt the answer to it… might just be underneath the mountain…

“Nightwing, don’t mind me asking, but Zapdos already told us he had never seen the stone before.” Nathaniel told me, feeling unsure about it.

“He said he’s seen the mountain through and through,” I told him, still searching the ground for any slight indication, “I’m thinking the Stone of Summer… might just be hidden underneath Mt Thunder itself.”

For a moment there, Nathaniel looked at me strangely, and then observed what I was doing. I knew the walls were solid, but I couldn’t stop looking at the ground. Still, we went around again, and I kept closer to the details and the others were watching me. Interestingly enough, I found a series of cracks in the gray-colored slate stone below our feet against the wall, which I wasn’t sure were from natural causes… or from something being patched up. Looking down the cracks didn’t help too much, all I saw was black. So, I looked toward the other Windblazers.

“I don’t see what you’re looking at, Nightwing…” One of them shrugged, “It’s just the floor…”

“I need something to strike this spot.” I requested of them, “To me, this patch of cracks just seems… unusual. The cracks are faint, but that might be because of time…”

They had looked to each other, but it wasn’t long before a Furret rider had stepped forward. He bowed before me for a moment, and then I nodded to him.

“A Hyper Beam attack should be enough.” He told me, motioning for me to step aside.

I quickly moved away, and then the Furret fired off his attack, directing it into the floor and blasting a large portion of the rocks away. I shut my eyes trying to avoid letting the dust and debris blow into them, but once it was all clear, I looked at the spot.

The strike had gone in deep, but still… not totally deep as I would have liked it. I was a little disappointed, but still, I guess Zapdos really was right, and maybe there was no underground cavern to this place like I was hoping for…

“Nothing…” I replied, just looking at the rocky pit we had created.

“Nightwing, don’t worry about it.” Nathaniel told me, trying to keep me in high spirits, “You never know. If the stone really was underground, none of us would have thought about hitting an area with cracks.”

True, but it would have been nice if something came out of it. Regardless, we left Mt Thunder as an overturned stone, and prepared to move on.

“Thunder Meadow is the next location.” Nathaniel assured me, “However, Delta Green forces are known to have control over this area. I know you want to be trustworthy with Zapdos, but it would be better if we do not let Delta Green know about this. We need to move to Thunder Meadow, and then find what we can about the Stone of Summer. It has to be there…”

It was dangerous dealing with outside forces, but we needed to look like we didn’t mean any harm. I doubted their problems with Rocket and Aqua were going well at all, but we needed to stay on better sides.

“We’re going to need to cut the force down to five members.” I told the others, knowing I didn’t want to be seen as a large, hostile pack, “And we need to fly by evening, so its harder for them to see us. Got it?”

When the night arrived, we would make our move toward Thunder Meadow. Somehow… I had the distinct feeling we were drawing closer now…

[TVTMaster]

OOC: Oh. Okay, I'll edit the post a bit, sending my character there out of a similar hunch about the Summer Stone. Thing is, I get bored RPing with just my rescue team, since it's kind of like writing a fic with a premade and progressing plot, so I want to come into conflict with another RPer. And from what I can tell, most everyone else is at Mt. Freeze or Jamacas, so you're the closest one. I'll edit out the part with my character knowing.
OOC2: Thanks, Neo. From reading your work, it'll be hard to diminish the surprise of your surprises.

Thunder Meadow, Pokemon Square

Eretan
Rowan
Pin'orcen
Cub

The trip to Thunder Meadows passed without event, as Eretan and Pin'orcen passed the time by bringing each other up to date on their lives since Eretan's last trip to Wintervale. Rowan's mouth was a significant problem in the smoothness of the trip, and long hours were spent in discreet conversation making and executing plans to quiet Eretan's little brother. Rowan's favorite subject on the trip was that of damsels in distress. Obviously ignoring the nagging fact that he knew full well what they were doing, he proposed insane theories as to the nature of the trip. Cub remained silent, building niches in Eretan's tree to store the needed equipment.

Pin'orcen spoke. "Eretan. This looks like a good place to make camp." The area in question consisted of a deep furrow in the ground filled with rainwater, and a grassy plain broken by lightning all around. A cliff jutted from the earth nearby. Eretan nodded in agreement. "Pin'orcen, let me show you my encampment quake technique." Pin'orcen watched intently as Eretan poised his foot in the air, adjusting the pad of his foot ever so slightly, moving the position of his legs and shifting his weight. When he looked satisfied, he brought the foot down straight. A rumble shook the earth as a neat oval of ground turned to dust. Rowan climbed into the pit, stomping the loose dust into the root network underneath.

"Eretan, good job! I'll go dig a canal for the water." Cub helped Pin'orcen clear away root and grass to let water flow into a resevoir near the pit. Rowan bagen to speak again. "Hey, that's cool! A pool! Pool and cool rhyme! Like neat and beet! I like beets, they're neat! Hey, that rhymes! Where's the damsel in distress? I wanna save the damsel in distress! Hey, when are we going to--" Eretan planted Rowan's head in the ground. Pin'orcen, grinning, buried the rest of Rowan's body in the earth, except the shell. A berry patch in the ground. Rowan pulled his head out, and began ranting about how mean Pin'orcen was. Cub laughed a high laugh, and settles in Eretan's tree. Eretan settled in the pit, snugging himself in the ground, where Pin'orcen, Rowan, and Cub proceeded to make camp. Cub planted a tent pole in Eretan's shell.

"YEEEEEOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOW!" Cub hadn't realized Eretan didn't have real soil on his back. Withdrawing the pole, and pouring in a tree sap, Cub caused Eretan to relax. "Okay, sorry about that, man. I'll just surf the weighted vibe, kay then? Digger?" Eretan had no response for this. Cub placed weights on the tent corners near the tree. As Pin'orcen funneled water into the pit in Eretan's back, he kept a lookout for any visible manifestations of the Summer Stone's power. Cub assembled his wooden field glasses, and watched the horizon. "Youch! That was negative!" A bolt of lightning struck in front of the field glasses's vision, striking Cub momentarily blind. The two kept lookout. A speck against the sky was no threat, Pin'orcen thought, as he fell off to sleep.

[Neo Emolga]

OOC: Oh. Okay, I'll edit the post a bit, sending my character there out of a similar hunch about the Summer Stone. Thing is, I get bored RPing with just my rescue team, since it's kind of like writing a fic with a premade and progressing plot, so I want to come into conflict with another RPer. And from what I can tell, most everyone else is at Mt. Freeze or Jamacas, so you're the closest one. I'll edit out the part with my character knowing.

I'll put a post here in a bit.

OOC:

Ah, okay...

The Thunder Meadow is actually a Friend Area in PMD, only a few points south of Pokemon Square, which is held by Delta Green. It's not really all that big. It you want a description, its a cliff with brown grass with a few trees overlooking a group of dark clouds with thunder constantly flaring off. Meanwhile, in the cliff is a giant crack shaped like a thunderbolt.

Also, with Friend Areas, they're all really tiny and scattered around Pokemon Square. If I put them on the map, your eyes would bug out from all the words. XD

Also, come on down if you're feeling lucky. I have surprises of my own. ;)

[Neo Emolga]

En Route to Thunder Meadow

Once night had arrived, we flew onward to Thunder Meadow. With me was Nathaniel and three other Windblazers, as I had sent the rest of them home to remove suspicion. The dark camouflage we had put on ourselves would keep us hidden in the night sky.

Regardless of the fact we were plunging directly into deep Delta Green territory, I felt safer with Delta Green than Team Aqua. Team Aqua was just pure violent with no desire to negotiate anything than take everything they wanted. I couldn’t wait for the day their existence was no more, and the more time passed, the sooner I hoped it would be.

Narsaka was especially patient with me on this trip. These last past hours had involved a lot of flying, but he knew what we were after, and I could sense it. Never did I think the possibility of us flying side by side… would actually be one day possible…

In the distance, I saw the dry, grassy fields of Thunder Meadow, and the raging skies overhead. At last we were finally here, and I could see if the Stone of Summer really was buried somewhere here.

Thunder Meadow

As soon as we arrived, I found the cliff, lighting up for moments from the thunder flashing. We kept low to avoid getting struck. Meanwhile, I knew to head for the underground. I knew the Stone of Summer wouldn’t be on the surface… otherwise someone would have easily found it already. Instead, I looked at the bottom of the cliff itself, and headed downward. Hopefully we hadn’t been seen by anyone…

Once we landed on the grassy field below the cliff, we quickly dismounted. I looked up and saw the edge of the cliff was about sixty feet up, and I could see the first jagged crack that tore into the edge of the cliff itself. Meanwhile, in the sky, it was still very dark out, but hopefully we would be ready soon enough once there was light.

My first move was to look along the wall for any cracks or impressions. Something here had to have been patched up, and after searching and using my electrical powers to light the areas along the walls, I found an area that was slightly discolored… and had multiple cracks. It had taken us a while to find it, but soon enough, I felt it…

“Here, look at this.” I told Nathaniel, “Something here was patched up, but no one would ever suspect it from a first look. It almost looks like the cliff, and it looks like this has been here for a long time. But look…”

I rubbed the area with my hand, and several pieces of dust and dirt had been wiped away. Under it was even more evidence as I could see a large amount of mud was used to block some kind of opening…

“We need something to strike this wall.” I told the rest of the Windblazers, “Another Hyper Beam would do.”

“You got it.” Chaz the Furret replied, “Just step back.”

Chaz then looked to the wall as we quickly backed away, and then quickly, he unleashed another Hyper Beam, striking the wall with a powerful white and yellow blast that shook the earth. With a massive blast, the attack was power enough to shatter the covering. Once the dust had cleared, we had seen that there was now a large hole in the wall, heading deeper inside. However, it was totally pitch black.

“This… really could be it…” Nathaniel told me, giving a slight smile, “Imagine what they would say when we get back home…”

“Relax, first we need to get it.” I told him, giving him a confident wink, “Now let’s go.”

“Nightwing, Spirit Feather, we’ll keep watch.” Chaz replied, looking confident, “You two see if you can find the stone.”

After that, I headed inside with Nathaniel, and used my electricity to light the way. Everything around me was surrounded with a light yellow glow as we made our way through the entrance of this… mysterious tunnel…

[TVTMaster]

OOC: Sorry for the lack of detail in this post, I'm homeschooled and I have to get to my next assignment in a bit.

Thunder Meadow, Pokemon Square

Eretan
Rowan
Pin'orcen
Cub

Eretan woke to the sound of a cliff face being destroyed. His blurry vision slowly adjusted to the darkness, and he stirred. The team on his back woke. "Eretan? That you?" "Hey, teamie, I'm trying to sleep!" "Eretan! Is it the damsel?" "For the last time, there's no freaking damsel." Eretan ignored them and pulled himself out of the pit. Silently walking toward the cliff face, he spotted a freshly made hole. Footprints led into it. Still fresh. "Pin'orcen. Someone's in there." Pin'orcen clambered off Eretan's shell. "Attention! This area is under the jurisdiction of Team Delta Green! Violators of the territory agreement will be persecuted!"

[Neo Emolga]

OOC: You forgot I had guys held behind on watch. :P

Thunder Meadow

I walked in deeper until suddenly I heard a voice shout out from behind me. I looked back for a second, and then released my electric power, shutting us in the darkness. The only light now was coming from the entrance hole. Soon enough, I saw a Dotaitos standing in the entrance hole.

“Attention!” He shouted in a loud voice, “This area is under the jurisdiction of Team Delta Green! Violators against the territory agreement will be persecuted!”

Their patrols must have been incredibly tight. However, I looked to Nathaniel…

“If we leave they’ll know we were after something.” I told him, knowing there was no turning back, “Go to them and tell them you’ll leave at once. Make it look like you were the only one who entered the tunnel. I’ll keep going on ahead…”

“But you would be all alone then…” Nathaniel whispered to be, “Here, take my pack. There should be enough food in there to keep you alive long enough to reach the stone and back.”

And then, Nathaniel headed toward the exit, and then came face to face with the Dotaitos. Rather than making enemies, he decided to be peaceful about it…

“I’m sorry, we were only trying to find a place to spend the night.” Nathaniel told the Dotaitos, acting like he was the only one who had entered the tunnel, “We will leave this place at once and head back. Sorry to have disturbed you.”

Meanwhile, I headed further underground, farther from the entrance while carrying Nathaniel’s supply pack with me. Once I couldn’t see the exit anymore, I lit the way again with my electricity, and headed further underground.

This place went deep, but after seeing a flight of stairs heading downward, I knew something must have been here before and constructed this place. However, just as I took the stairs down, I moved a stone slab over them to hide the fact there were stairs in here, just in case they didn’t believe Nathaniel’s story. If they walked in, they would have had to do a good, concentrated search before finding there was another way down. Meanwhile, it would buy me plenty of time to find the Stone of Summer… if it really was down here.

[TVTMaster]

OOC: Like that guy's going to stop me from investigating the big whopping hole in the cliff that wasn't there before. Nyah-nyah-nyah nyah-nyah! *shot* Oh, and that was Pin'orcen saying that. He's the senior Delta Green guy, after all. And I hope you don't mind a little dialogue bunnying on Nathaniel.

Thunder Cliff, Pokemon Square

Eretan
Rowan
Pin'orcen
Nathaniel

A worried-looking Sneasel stumbled out of the cave. "I’m sorry, we were only trying to find a place to spend the night." Eretan was suspicious, but Pin'orcen said: "Very well then. Stay here if you will. I hope you don't mind us searching this cave. We're after... no. Never mind. I said nothing." The Sneasel looked suspicious. Obviously Pin'orcen had said too much. Eretan pushed past the concerned Sneasel into the cave, with Rowan and Cub on his back. Pin'orcen scuttled forward, leading the team forward in the dark. A flash of light came from down the passage. Eretan shouted back: "Sir? Is there any equipment you might have left in here?" "Oh-- yes. Don't touch it, though. It could hurt you." Understatement of the week, there. A scurrying was heard in the back of the cave. Zubat, most likely. Little buggers thought they owned the caves.

As Eretan and co. proceeded, sounds of scampering became more evident. What's more, no Zubat at all hampered progress. The cave was slient, but warmed by a strange internal glow. "Mister Pin'orcen? I don't think we should've trusted that Sneasel." "No duh, kid. The whole reason we're here is because we don't trust him." Eretan felt the weight of anxiety heavy on his back. That and all of Cub's junk. "Make way for penguins." Eretan muttered. The cave semed more and more unescapeable. The grass prickled on his shell. Eretan stepped. A stone broke under his foot. It revealed a passage. Too small for him. "Pin'orcen-- I think I found something." The team inspected the hole. Pin'orcen and Cub could just fit through, but Eretan and Rowan were too large. "You go ahead. I'll question that Sneasel." Nodding, Pin'orcen and Cub squeezed through. Eretan and Rowan proceeded out. With Rowan's mouth closed by a thick vine.

[Neo Emolga]

Thunder Meadow
Underground Cavern, 2nd-5th Sublevels

I wasn’t sure how Nathaniel was making out with dealing with the Delta Green forces, but hopefully he was keeping them distracted long enough for me to head deeper into the cavern. And at least I had a light source. Meanwhile, Nathaniel’s supply pack would keep me alive, since I had no idea how deep this cavern would go. But hopefully, the stone really was here, or else all of this hard work would be in vain.

I went down another staircase, softly and silently. Suddenly, out of nowhere, a group of Zubat had suddenly been startled and try to attack, but I quickly unleashed a powerful Thunderbolt and struck all of the ones surrounding me. With a bright flash, they were downed, and those that has escaped the attack quickly flew away, seeing as how I was a threat.

Pits that almost seemed to be bottomless were also pretty common. While I knew the cave went deeper, I didn’t want to jump down into those holes, for I had no idea where they would go. Hopefully, the Delta Green forces would never find the covered up staircase until it was already too late…

I pressed on, I didn’t care about my fears with the Stone of Summer now, I needed to use it. Again, I found another flight of starts and made my way downward. Meanwhile, I could feel myself running out of electricity from all the overuse of my electric powers needed to light the area around me. In Nathaniel’s pack, I managed to find a Max Elixir, so I quickly pulled off the cap, tossed it aside, and steadily drank the fluid inside. It wasn’t exactly great tasting, but it did make me feel more energized to continue moving along.

Again, I had to lay yet another assault on some stray Zubat. Only a few of them were hit this time, but it was enough to send them flying away. However, that was the only Pokémon I managed to find here considering how incredibly dark it was. Shortly after, I had narrowly walked around another obscurely shaped pit trap, and found my way deeper into the cavern.

Something was here, I could feel it now. I didn’t have this feeling while trying to search Mt Thunder, but I could sense a strong presence coming from below. At this point, I wasn’t sure what Nathaniel was doing, but the sooner he got out of here, the better. I knew he would be worried about me, but I knew I could handle myself. I had to beat Delta Green to the chase and I had a feeling I was making serious headway.

When I reached the fifth sublevel, the surrounding area had changed as I reached a new layer of stone and rock. The number of pits had diminished, and the presence of any living creatures around me had totally vanished. I knew… nothing had ever been here for a long while. If this area was really where the Stone of Summer was, it was easy to see no one had ever found it yet…

I had been getting hungry, so I checked Nathaniel’s pack for any possible yellow Gummis he might have had. I was a little disappointed to find there was a single one, but the chestnut he had would do for now. I quickly pealed it as I moved along and then ate the inside.

Hopefully soon… I would finally be able to see… the very stuff of legend…

[Finch]

OOC: If Neo gets the stone I'll be very angry. Get him, TVT.

Frosty Forest

It had taken a long time to reach the forest, an awfully long time, but Finch had finally arrived. Being in such excellent shape, he wasn't even tired. The only thing on his mind now was finding Articuno. As he paced cautiously along the snow-covered trail which wound around the tree roots like some deranged Arbok, the Commander could feel it. Every few seconds, he felt the same surge of power rush through him that he had been feeling for years. He could feel the stones, and they were calling for him. They were reaching out. It seemed absurd to talk about inanimate objects searching for someone in this way, for a host. As the Finch knew, though, it wasn't like these were ordinary stones he was dealing with. There was something far more extraordinary unfolding that he would have to see to believe.

He noticed on the floor in front of him a large impression in the snow, as though a Pokemon had been lying there for quite some time. Whatever the case, it appeared to be gone now. Perhaps this was the Mightyena that had been spotted here before? It would certainly be very interesting to discover what exactly such a distinctive and suspicious Pokemon had been doing prowling around Aqua territory. Perhaps he could kill two birds with one stone on this journey. Not that he intended to kill any birds, in a literal sense. Articuno was sacred to him and his Team, as the saviour of Marinas, and would be integral to his plans for Aqua.

He noticed his breath materialising before his eyes, and realised that it must be very cold here.

He's nearby...

* * * * *

Mt Freeze Summit
Near Marinas

I will be gone for a little while. Captain rust is in charge of the team, so do as he says if you value your own lives.

See you all soon,
Commander Finch

Seamus perused the letter with an expression of vague disgust, juggling his leek from wing to wing as if willing time to go faster, and Finch to return before rust even got here. However, deciding that he couldn't wait and allow the crazed Kabutops to take control, he scooped the parchment from the wall, wrapped it around his leek, and flew as swiftly as possible out to sea.

Him? Lead the Team? It's time to take matters into my own hands, he thought as he watched the torn paper float about on the waves.

[Neo Emolga]

OOC: Ha ha, but what you didn’t know Finch was that you posting before him only helped me along. XD

Thunder Meadow
Underground Cavern, 6nd-10th Sublevels

When I reached the sixth sublevel, I noticed something… different. The floors were suddenly tiled, almost like an ancient sanctuary. However, while it was still very dark inside, there was a very dim light coming through the cracks. Still, I continued on, walking my way past many shattered and old tiles along walls depicting very strange paintings and symbols. It was very strange, but I kept moving on. I had come across another stone slab that had been sealed, but a few good kicks to the center and it shattered into pieces to reveal another staircase to the grounds below.

Meanwhile, for a moment, I kept quiet, but still heard nothing from Delta Green. They were too far up at this point to stop me. And so I moved on, heading down the staircase and onto the seventh sublevel. However, I suddenly realized something at this point…

Some of the tiles on the ground were booby-trapped. As I walked on the tiles underneath my feet, I heard a click and suddenly I was sprayed with a sickening amount of green, disgusting sticky goop that had gotten all over my camouflage robe. I took it off and threw it aside, since it wasn’t even worth me keeping on. Getting another one of them was easy, but I had to be more careful about what I was stepping on around here…

I found a small pile of stones, and so I grabbed a few of them and used them on the tiles to see if anything would go off. One of them had set off another trap with sprayed mud in all directions. Thankfully enough, I had been far enough away to avoid coming into contact with it…

I continued my way across the floor, being very careful about how I approached each tile. I figured if Delta Green hustled their way down here, they would be bombarded with traps setting off. Also, I had the advantage of being down here alone. I didn’t know what they were doing up there, but if they were as a group, the chances of them setting off traps would be even worse as they walked along more of the tiles on the ground.

Once I reached the stairs, it was down to the eighth sublevel, and now the walls and area around me were actually lit up well enough to the point where I didn’t even need to discharge electricity to light the area around me. I could see the tiles more clearly now, but there was still no indication of which was rigged with a trap and what wasn’t. Still, I moved carefully along the floor, moving along the edges to avoid coming into contact with the traps in the center of the room.

Several of the traps I was able to see. One of them in particular had groves in the tiles that were very carefully hidden, but I still managed to see them. They were intended to break if someone stepped on them, but… I left them behind for Delta Green to discover if they were thinking of tracking me down. Once I found another flight of stairs, I headed down, now as far deep as the ninth sublevel.

I was getting tired, I ate another one of Nathaniel’s apples, and thankfully enough it kept me going. It was a good thing he gave me this pack, or there was no way I would have been able to make it all the way down without running into trouble.

More trapped tiles, some of them had holes and I wasn’t going to be foolish enough to look at them and then get something jabbed in my face. I definitely didn’t want to die down here, there was no way anyone would ever find me. Still, I kept carefully close to the walls, jumping over every other tile to avoid setting off traps. So far it was working pretty well, if Delta Green wasn’t as careful, they were going to find themselves in a heap of trouble from setting off all the traps I had carefully avoided.

Now… down into the tenth sublevel. I was truly wondering how much deeper this could go, but already I could see the glow was getting stronger. I could feel it now, and I wanted to touch it. However, I needed to be quick and careful, and not screw up at the last minute when I was almost there. Again, more trapped tiles, more with holes, more with groves that would allow the tile to break and force the Pokémon on top of them falling into whatever misery was underneath.

My heart was racing, but I knew not to be hasty. I just… needed to keep going…

[TVTMaster]

OOC: Is there going to be some sort of guardian for the Summer Stone, or will it just be "first RPer to grab"?

Thunder Cave, Pokemon Square

So many floors... Pin'orcen's limbs ached. Hunger ate at him like a vicious worm, ripping out his muscles. Pin'orcen hadn't become a top Delta Green agent by being uncautious. Traps on every floor. Zubat aggresively striking at him left and right. He should have called it a day. Cub rode him, conserving strength and pointing out covered traps. Whoever they were following, they sure hadn't wanted anyone following. Already one of his legs was gone. It would grow back. In a month or two.

"Pin... are you sure we should be doing this? What if there's nobody here?" "Nonsense. Footprints. The Zubat have wings. If these were any older, they would be distorted. These are fresh. A Pikachu, by the looks of it." Pin'orcen stopped. The ninth staircase so far. Last floor the floor had cracked. Perhaps... Pin'orcen descended the staircase. Noting the tiles, he broke a stone. The pieces fell. A light from beneath shone through. Obviously, falling to get there wasn't a goood idea. But light meant one of two things: A pokemon, most likely the Pikachu, or the Stone of Summer. The former was more probable.

More tiles. Only a small pokemon could get across. Kingler is not a small pokemon. Cub jumped down, and nodded. Navigating the tiles, Cub made it to a tenth staircase. Not covered. The Pikachu obviously thought they couldn't follow. As a small pokemon crossed, a large pokemon barreled into the room. "Mister Pin'orcen! The Sneasel is attacking Eretan! And a bunch of DARK agents are there!" "No! DARK is after the stone! They've enough expendable forces to stop Eretan!" "What?" "They can beat us." "Oh." Pin'orcen, determined, clambered onto Rowan. "Rowan! See the marked tiles? Run on them! You're big enough to reach enough safe ones to stand!"

Rowan, nodding, slammed on the tiles. Miraculously, only one tile broke. Pin'orcen nearly fell. And he caught a glimpse of a pokemon bathed in an electric glow beneath. Admittedly, Pin'orcen couldn't chase it, the broken tile being over a chasm, but his suspicions were confirmed. And the Pikachu's sense of safety failed. Cub's staircase was larger than the first. Rowan, Cub, and Pin'orcen ran. The tenth floor, full of more holes. Crossed easily, with Cub mapping the safe squares and Rowan navigating.

Eretan fled. The pursuing pokemon chased him deeper into the cave. Tiles broke. A sheer drop, into a chasm. Falling. Eretan fell, envisioning the result of the landing. The result was a fall onto a pillar, which crumbled on impact. He must have fell through at least nine of the passages Cub and Pin'orcen went through. Landing on a crumbling stair, he fell behind a maze of stairs. Easily crossing the room after noting Cub's markings, he encountered the rest of the party. Pin'orcen was shocked. Nathaniel thought he had won. Big mistake. "Four against one, Eretan. Four against one. The DARK agent doesn't stand a chance. Well, three and one nearly disabled against one. Still."

[Finch]

OOC: LCZ, read my second post on page 1 of this RP. You're now taking Sceptile Frost's place as leader of Mission A. Otherwise, I'll have to leave it up to another NPC. I don't want another NPC.

Frosty Forest

Yeah, definitely nearby...

Finch was one tough Pokemon. He couldn't usually feel any discomfort- pain was of no consequence, and cold had no effect. But now, as he neared the titan of ice, his very bones began to rattle with the chilling frost of the night air. He took it as a good sign, though, a sign that he would soon achieve what he had set out to do. Although he'd found nothing more of his Mightyena friend, that wouldn't be of any great effect to his success. A lone scout wouldn't even recognise him as an Aqua, let alone the leader. He could feel safe strolling right into Lesalas, but he knew that would just be a waste of his time. That's what Squad A was for.

Suddenly, he felt like he'd just walked into an invisible wall. This was for a simple reason; he had more or less just walked into an invisible wall, or one made of ice at the very least. While a gentle knock, it was unexpected, and the wind was knocked from his lungs momentarily. What was most shicking, though, was the way his cold, rattling breaths failed to provide his lungs with any air whatsoever. He couldn't breathe, and he couldn't remain conscious for much longer without oxygen. Sliding against the wall to his knees, he crashed down into the crisp, icy grass on the forest floor and blacked out.

He didn't awake for quite a while, but if he had he would've missed a lot.

* * * * *

"Finch, why have you come here?" issued a voice inside his head. "What do you seek?"

Finch felt like he knew this voice. He could've sworn he'd heard it before.

Articuno? I seek the Stone of Winter. Surely you have felt it, too? You know where it is?

The images in Finch's head refused to come into focus, merely dancing in a pale blue and white blur that was totally incomprehensible. He tried to concentrate, and made out broad wings and a flowing tail for a passing moment. This was definitely Articuno.

"You're a tough one to read. Your heart seems true, but there is a strange presence about you. The stones appear to be seeking you, as a host. Frankly, we have no idea why."

We?

"If you truly deserve the stone then you will find it without any help from me," said Articuno. "I will, however, watch over you and see you come to no danger while you are in my land. In fact, I will do just as I always have done."

* * * * *

Finch awoke and sat up gingerly, staring at where the icy wall had once been, then up to the shimmering blue sky through the frozen branches.

That's all I ask for...

[Neo Emolga]

OOC: Agh, no! You’re back! XP

Thunder Meadow, Underground Cavern
11th-12th Sublevels

I thought I was secure, but I had gotten a surprise. Team Delta Green was closer than I thought, and I couldn’t understand how they were able to avoid the traps up there, but they were making serious headway…

I needed to hurry, I didn’t want to lose something so precious like the Stone of Summer to them. I needed to get it no matter what the cost, or else I would be trapped down here by them… which could cost me my life in the process…

I focused my energy and used my Agility. No… not even once was enough, I needed to use it again. Rather than risking it and taking the path carefully, I rushed past the traps, very often setting them off but managing to escape the before their ill effects struck me.

I rushed down the 11th sublevel and furiously darted down the hall way, feeling the light was tremendously close. I could feel it and I didn’t want to lose it. The light fully illuminated the hallway and it all felt like the rush of a dream. Again, more traps were sprung, and another pit was formed. However, unlike before, this pit didn’t lead down to the last floor. It instead led to total darkness… well beyond the stone’s resting place. These traps… were fatal. Just before the stones had crumbled below my feet, I had jumped and Quick Attacked to safety, leaving a massive gap between me and the 11th floor entrance. For a moment, I saw there was no way to cross… except through flying over or building a bridge. The gap was nearly twenty meters wide, and lead to pure darkness… a hideous death for whoever fell into it. The only way I was ever going to get out of here…

Was by growing wings…

I rushed past the hallway, feeling the Agility speed wearing off so I used it again, rushing over another pit trap that crumbled as I moved along. It was a good thing I was small and lightweight… or I would have never made it out of here. Another twenty meter gap of falling tiles had emerged, and I managed to cross it just in time as I could feel the cracks forming under my hands and feet as I raced across with extreme speed.

I had reached the twelfth sublevel, and instead of the horrifying hallways, I had come to the final sublevel. I stepped into a massive chamber, full of a wonderful topaz glow that lit the entire stone room with sincerity and beauty. And there it was, just like how they had all described it. The Stone of Summer, a giant crystal of yellow, gold, and orange with a large carving of a gleaming sun, almost triple the size of a Lugia. It… was undoubtedly the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen.

I didn’t waste another second, I rushed up to it, but before I could put my hands on it, the ground had begun to shake. For the first time, I began to truly fear what was going to happen, and then suddenly, the tiles on the ground began shaking, cracking, and then splitting. The earth was being torn apart, and for a moment, I thought I was going to be killed right here with the stone. I almost began to feel… maybe no one was meant to have it after all…

A fissure had opened up, and I saw what looked like a massive dragon made of stones and rock suddenly appear, slowly rising from the splitting ground. There was no running, only fighting…

In a rush of fear, I slammed my hands on the Stone of Summer, and felt a wondrous spark of revelation inside of me. The wind… the storms… its essence was merging with my own very soul. I kept my hands on it as the rock dragon continued to rise. I didn’t care about it, I was going to need the stone’s power to fight it, it was obvious what this was about.

The Stone of Summer began shrinking as the power flowed within me, and then… suddenly I felt it. Grace… essence. I had taken a deep breath, and then… I was sacred…

A pair of majestic white wings had suddenly emerged from my back, and I felt a tremendous surge of power, able to harness even the winds, and with my own powers of lightning and thunder amplified. I… couldn’t believe it. With a refreshed exhale, I could move, fold, and spread my own pair of wings… it was like a miracle.

However, I turned and saw the rock dragon was poised to strike. The entire floor of the last level of the cavern was gone, leaving only me and the last remaining half of the Stone of Summer on a far out ledge. If I didn’t have the wings, I would be trapped.

The giant rock dragon looked at me, and glared with dark, glowing red eyes. It wasn’t even a Pokémon, just an animated monster.

Never did I dream… I would have to fight like this…

[Finch]

OOC: Agh, no! You’re back! XP
You mean TVT? Or me? We never went anywhere?!

[Neo Emolga]

You mean TVT? Or me? We never went anywhere?!

OOC:

I meant TVT, just surprised he was so hot on my poor thunderbolt tail already... XD

[Finch]

Frosty Forest

Finch was still sitting dazed in the freezing cold snow. That was too vivid to have been a mere dream. Articuno had come to him in a vision, and told him what he had come to find out. The stones were real, and they were searching for him. Not even the great bird of ice could say why, but there was a reason that Finch was important in all of this. If he let his ego get in the way of his goals, though, he would never find the stones. He decided it was best to move on.

The funny thing was... he could feel the cold. It wasn't what he expected, though. It was like there was something sharp and metallic sticking deep into his ribs. When he looked at his right side, he was gobsmacked to see that there was. A dagger-like blade of a blue marble rock had been stabbed into him viciously while he was asleep, by the look of it. He couldn't tell at that point how serious the injuries were, but he thought it stupid to pull the blade out and watch his own blood drain. Instead, he staggered out into the clearing at the forest's entrance and bellowed up at the skies above.

"Help! I need a ride to Marinas!"

Luckily for him, one of the Pidgeot scouts whom he had ordered to search for the previously sighted enemy had heard his cries and swept down from the heavens to help.

"Commander," the bird cooed, "are you OK?"

Nodding awkwardly, Finch mounted the Pokemon and sat, slightly hunched, while his ally took him to safety and medical treatment. The herbal medicines and delicate surgical techniques the Pokemon had developed were the result of pressure put on by the troubled age they all lived in. However, anything was possible with such diversity, as the Commander well knew.

[Knightblazer]

Frosty Forest
Somewhere....

“Ho boy…” Lucied muttered to himself as the wolf walked about the looming shades of the Frosty Forest, sighing as he saw a scar on the trunk nearby. The same one, the Mightyena thought gloomily towards himself. Looking around, the wolf spotted a few familiar items in his path and then sank down onto the snow.

Great… he mentally chided himself, I’m lost! He finished his thought with a very animalistic whine. The sound echoed through the forest softly. Hopefully it couldn’t be picked up by any of the Aqua operatives. With a huge sigh of defeat, Lucied decided to stay at the Forest for the night. Using his ever-sharp nose to pick up the wind’s direction, he dug a hole into the snow, making sure that the direction it was facing was against the wind. After sometime, he managed to dig up his resting spot and went into the small, enclosed area, and finally decided to call it a night. However, before the Mightyena could close his eyes…

“…what do you want from this place?” issued a noble voice.

“GAH!” yelled the wolf in shock; his eyelids shooting wide open as he scrambled within the hole. It took sometime for Lucied to calm down and look at the figure imposing itself at the entrance of his… bed. It was a majestic bird, with a plummet of azure, frigid blue and a graceful tail swishing like fine silk. The Mightyena gasped when he realized who it was. “…Articuno?” the wolf uttered out the legendary’s name in awe. “Wh-What in Ho Oh’s name a-are y-y-you here?” he managed to splutter out the question, causing the bird to chuckle a little at the wolf’s comical reaction.

“Simple,” the bird replied, “I was about to ask you why are you within my land.”

The look on Lucied’s face was priceless as his brain slowly digested the question. “Your land?” he asked, “You mean… I’m trespassing? Wait… that means…” he trailed off, realizing just what had happened. “Eep!” he yelled, “I’m sorry!”

Another chuckle came as Articuno turned and looked at the comical Mightyena with amused eyes. “There is no need to, young Mightyena,” the bird said, “I was just wondering if you had any purpose in coming here.”

Lucied shook his head in response. “I have no business here… I’m actually, well… lost.”

Articuno smiled gently as the legendary took off into the night sky. “Well, then, I shall lead you towards the way,” the bird said as it took into the night. Lucied quickly clambered out of his hole, and gave chase onto the bird’s tail.

Knightblazer

[Finch]

Medical Centre
Marinas

Finch was still fluctuating in and out of a dream-like state. He had more or less managed to stay awake on the Pidgeot’s back, but fainted almost immediately on arriving in Marinas. While the grunts were lugging his body along the track to the Medic’s hut, he was visited again by Articuno.

* * * * *

“Finch, the blade in your side… the one they are removing… it is blessed…”

Blessed? How?

“It’s a shard of the Stone you seek. It has a trace of the Stone’s power which you can manipulate to your will. It will help lead you to the stone.”

* * * * *

“Well then,” Finch heard a Kadabra say as he regained consciousness, “we won’t need this anymore.”

“No, wait;” said Finch, “it’s mine.”

The Kadabra shot Finch a strange impression, as though he had been rooting through a bin for trash, but he decided to honour the Commander’s wish regardless. He laid the shard on the bedside table and exited the room swiftly, allowing the Hitmonlee time to rest and recover.

A shard of the stone, thought Finch. How… interesting.

[Neo Emolga]

Thunder Meadow, Underground Cavern
12th Sublevel, Stone of Summer Chamber

Wings. Never did I think I would have such an incredible blessing. The whole mantra, the whole Windblazer sect… and I had become everything I wanted to be.

Half of the Stone of Summer remained, but behind me was one of the most ferocious threat I have ever laid eyes on. If I was really going to get out of here alive, I was going to need to take him down… whatever it was…

“The Stone…” The rock dragon remarked in a deep and bellowing voice, glaring at me, “You are… driven… by greed…”

“By passion.” I corrected him, spreading my new wings, and then surging into the air, “And what are you?”

Still, he was huge, and down below, it seemed like his gigantic body seemed to stretch all the way to the center of the earth. I couldn’t tell if it was really alive or some hideous abomination…

“Rakal…” He told me, ready to fight, “These… stones… are protected. Nothing… that touches them… escapes…”

“Then I shall be the first…” I told him, ready to fight, “And you will go last…”

I focused my Agility, it was the only thing that was going to keep me alive considering how small I was fighting a massive rock dragon. My biggest problem was fighting him when he was so huge. And I thought Delta Green was a threat. If they were still perusing me, they were about to get a very unpleasant surprise when they saw this thing…

Rakal’s first strike was furiously slashing at me with his massive, razor-sharp rock claw. I realized, Agility was the only thing keeping me from instantly getting ripped to shreds. When he had missed and tried to recover, I used a furious Air Cutter attack, only this time it was magnified in power. I managed to strike him in the forehead, but the damage was incredibly minimal. With even half the stone’s power, it just wasn’t enough. It became clear what I was going to have to do. In order to take Rakal down, I was going to have to absorb the rest of the stone’s power. How I was going to do that while fighting him… was another question I was finding hard to answer.

Rakal struck again, swinging his massive rocky tail at me. With one quick rush, I flew upward toward the ceiling to dodge the attack, and he easily ripped apart a massive portion of the wall with it, scattering rocks and massive portions of the floor above. I didn’t know what was keeping this place holding up, but if this kept going on, this whole cavern was going to come down on me…

I flew up to Rackal as he was recovering, right near his eyes. His eyes were the only part of him that weren’t rocks, so I attempted to direct the most powerful Thunderbolt I could right into them. Surprisingly, it was far more powerful than I could imagine. I felt the entire area around me suddenly abound with a furious glowing white and yellow brilliant flash of thunder. I immediately directed the massive attack right into his eyes, and he shrieked from being blinded.

In a furious fit of rage, he swung his claw furiously while blinded, just trying to swat me out of the air. I just barely dodged it, and I could have sworn I wasn’t going to make it away fast enough in time before he struck.

While he was blinded, I rushed toward the Stone of Summer, landed right on top of what was remaining, and quickly put my hands on it again to take in the power. Again, I felt the spark of revelation as the power of this stone flowed within my essence and vitals. Sinking… it was all coming into me. The wings themselves even became more majestic, becoming a soft and pleasant array of yellow feathers slowly fading into white.

I had almost gotten it all, only Rackal had shaken off the attack and saw what I was trying to do. I wasn’t going to be greedy, I abandoned the remainder of the stone and took off, now being able to fly faster with the additional power. Again, I flew another circle around Rackal, and to him, he found it almost impossible to swat me like I was a super-charged Yanma. I flew around him and then landed on his head, and then sat on top of it. I then looked down and focused yet another Thunderbolt right down into him, and it was enough to crack open even the firm stones making up his head. However, to him, it still wasn’t enough to bring him down. Immediately he tried to crush me with his claws, and I tried to fly away only to be cut in the side from one of his long nails. The cut was bad, but not fatal. However, I needed help…

I had left Nathaniel’s pack right where the Stone was, and I had a choice. Rackal was still recovering the from the blow, but it was either quickly grab an Oran Berry and heal the damage… or take in the last of the Stone…

I decided to go for the Stone, I was never going to get another chance like this again. Rackal must have been going through a severe migraine, and was slashing wildly, bringing down many large portions of rock. Quickly, I landed on the stone again, and absorbed the last of its power. At the end, it felt like a thin sheet of ice that was absorbing right into my hands and feet, and when it was all gone, I felt it…

I felt truly blessed at that moment, capable of so many thing I never though would be possible. I knew… if I could get back home to our homeland, I would be the ultimate guardian of DARK and its citizens…

I turned to Rackal, and saw he was ready to continue the assault. All the power of the Stone of Summer was within me now. Whether it would be enough to destroy Rackal… was another question however…

[Finch]

OOC: You so know I'm gonna pull a Finch over this... :crackup:

Training Camp
Marinas

"Well," said the weapons expert, a rough-looking Machoke by the name of Jalem, "this is very interesting. Nothing like what I expected. Sir, I think you were right. This blade was broken off from the Stone of Winter itself. It truly is a sacred artifact, one which should be studied-"

Finch shot Jalem an overpowering glare and said, "It will be fashioned into a dagger, for my own personal use. Understood?"

"But, sir..."

"But nothing," he barked. He didn't want anyone to have their hands on the stone but himself. "This was a gift, to me, from Articuno. He said I was blessed. I'm not about to give that blessing up for anyone."

Jalem slumped, looking as though he were about to cry. "Yes... Yes, sir."

"How long?"

"A few hours."

"Good," said Finch, "then I'll return for it after I've checked on the progress that's been done here."

Leaving the swordsmith in a state of shock, he exited to see that his Pidgeot mount was still waiting outside.

"What's your name, kid?" he asked.

"Reg, sir," replied the bird, "Skystriker Initiate."

Finch nodded. "Well, you can scratch that, you're an Admin now. I'd like you to personally accompany me on a quest, but you must be able to keep a secret. Nobody can know where we're going, or why."

Reg bowed his head in an appreciative nod. "Thank you, sir, I would be honoured. Your secret will go with me to my grave."

"Now," replied Finch, "that's a bit morbid, isn't it? Stick with me, and your grave will remain a long way off for quite some time."

Reg cooed and smiled, ecstatic to have made such a chance encounter with his leader and come off better for it. It wasn't every day that your Commander promotes you, gives you a secret mission, and treats you like a friend. His family would be proud, if he ever got to tell them... Still, his loyalty to the Team and to Marinas was too great even to betray Finch for his own flesh and blood.

"If you don't mind, I'd like to take a gentle soar around the city and check up on our progress," said Finch.

Not saying a word, but lowering his wings and body for the Hitmonlee to mount, Reg the Pidgeot was happy to serve.

[TVTMaster]

OOC: Nooooo! I missed the RP all day and now Neo has the stone! Dang you! BTW, once the stones have had their power absorbed, can they be stolen? Because if the answer is yes, I might just have plan. Of sorts. Which isn't a plan. Only an unprepared attack on you. Bwaha.

Thunder Cave, Pokemon Square

Eretan
Cub
Pin'orcen
Rackal

The ground rumbled. No, it quaked. Buit it didn't quake. Eretan could make it quake. The earth was collapsing. The pits under the stones. Occupied by a giant monster. What pokemon is that? No, not a pokemon. A freak... From the collapsing floor, they saw a Pikachu. But no ordinary Pikachu. Eretan's worst fear was confirmed. The Pikachu had the Stone of Summer. And it had, by some miracle of the stone, wings. It was nearly too late. The Pikachu gripped the stione tightly, doinf fierce battle. The Pikachu used massively powerful flying attacks. There goes my type advantage.

The dragon roared in pain. Those attacks must have been deadly to inflict damage on a rock beast like that. "Eretan! Get down there and help the Pikachu! It doesn't stand a damn chance! If it goes down, the cave goes down with it. And we go down with the cave! Understood?" "Yes, sir." "Good. I'm going down there to get Metal Crabhammer on that thing's sorry ass. And then that of the Pikachu." Eretan completed what was happening already. The floor beneath him cracked, landing him on the ground where the Stone of Summer had been.

Eretan scrambled to the place where the stone of summer had been. As he suspected, fragments of it fell around where it had been. Placing his foot on the shard, he felt a strange, addictive power take hold of him. It was almost nothing, but he immediately felt some of what the Pikachu had felt. He tried to fly. Useless. Less than two percent useage. But it healed him. Healed him well. "You! Pikachu! Give me the stone that rightfully belongs to Delta Green!" It shot Eretan a cruel look, and continued his attack.

Pin'orcen fell on the back of the beast. It barely felt a thing. Pin, on the other hand, felt like his body had been shattered. He shook it off, and begtan to concentrate on his claw. Iron flowed to the spot, and an intense heat began to pulse. His claw was full metal now. Surrounding his claw with a flim of water, he plunged the hard metal into the brittle rock of the creature. It roared. Obviously it was in pain. Pain like merely the sting of a bee. "What is this? Is he an ally of yours, Pikachu? Merely an annoyance if you think he will help!" Pin'orcen let the water flow. It surged through the crevices and pores in the dragon's body, carving tunnels. The dragon took no notice of the slowing effect.

Instead, he smashed a thick wall, sealing the stairways and exits to the cave. It was either victory or death now. The dragon seemed weary from the internal erosion, but he took no notice as he focused his attacks on the winged Pikachu. The Pikachu in question could not be allowed to escape. Eretan, aware of his duties, was firing off a huge barrage of leaves, making sure to hit the Pikachu as he went. The Pikachu would be public enemy #1 to Delta Green if he escaped with the stone. The storm of leaves caught Rowan's notice, who began slinging a smaller but similar barrage. Cub, meanwhile, took advantage of the Pikachu's flying type by setting up a spike of a strange, electricity-prone stone. Hiding at a higher level, he aimed his "gun".

"You! Pikachu! Relinquish your hold on Delta Green's rightful property and fight as yourself! That stone belongs to Delta Green!" Pin'orcen spoke all the while with authority, as the Pikachu ignored him and proceeded to fight. Rackal seemed to notice the crab on his back who was poisoning him with water, tossing it off to the far wall. Pin'orcen grabbed the wall, but it was obvious that his emergency Vicegrip attack on the wall would not hold out. Cub, noticing, put aside his spike, and jumped for the Pikachu. A well aimed one. "Here, birdie birdie!" Cub had in mind the cliche of a shrunken person riding a bird in his mind. As Cub aimed for the Pikachu, Rowan and Eretan halted their attacks to keep Cub safe if he missed. The dragon seemed weakened by the widened cracks through his body. And Pin'orcen was about to fall...

[Neo Emolga]

OOC: Once you start using the stone, you absorb it like the way a sponge absorbs water. Right now, there’s nothing left… :P

Thunder Meadow, Underground Cavern
12th Sublevel, Stone of Summer Chamber

My wings… my powers… I could raise a hurricane if I wanted to. It was majestic, I had literally had become my own passion. I had become everything even Windblazer wanted to be. Nathaniel may not have seen me now, but when he did… he would be amazed…

However, Rackal was still hot on me with a fit of rage. He had suddenly realized the Stone of Summer was totally gone, not even a single pebble of it left. Meanwhile, I had so much electrical power inside of me that I was even discharging it even unintentionally, surrounding myself with a powerful aura of lighting. I realized… it would be some time before I learned how to harness and control this power, but for now, I had to use as much of it as I could to take down Rakal. I was ready to insist that this place would not become my tomb.

My wings… golden… bright sun yellow and a brilliant white. I had loved what I had become, and I insisted on keeping this.

“All I need to do…” Rackal spoke with a hard, violent tone, “Is kill you, and you will never leave with your powers.”

And then, I saw them. Team Delta Green had arrived with a squad of three of them, a Kingler, a Dotaitos, and an Elekid. And man, they sure didn’t look happy at the sight of Rackal. However, what they did next was a surprise…

“Eretan!” The Kingler shouted loudly, “Get down there and help the Pikachu! It doesn't stand a damn chance! If it goes down, the cave goes down with it. And we go down with the cave! Understood?”

They were… actually helping me? However, I supposed at a time like this, we had to be allies, at least for a temporary amount of time…

“Yes, sir.” The Dotaitos replied.

“Good.” The Kingler replied, “I'm going down there to get Metal Crabhammer on that thing's sorry ass. And then that of the Pikachu.”

So much for being allies. My advantage over him was being able to fly. However, I had bigger problems on my hand. Rackal glared toward all of us with anger.

I didn’t feel like conversing here. I quickly surged at Rackal, and struck him violently with a powerful Aerial Ace attack, powerful enough to slit and sever his stone arm. Like a clipped branch, the rock arm of Rakal had fallen into the seemingly bottom less pit below him. He screamed in agony, and I quickly responded by heading toward his other side. He slashed with his other arm, but with another charge of Agility, I was able to quickly fly around him and launch a powerful an incredibly sharp Air Cutter attack. Before, the attack did nothing, but now it cut like a Scyther slashing a blade of grass. His arms were gone, leaving only his tail, however, considering how high up I was now flying around the chamber ceiling, there was no way he would be able to hit me.

“You!” The Dotaitos shouted to me, “Pikachu! Give me the stone that rightfully belongs to Delta Green!”

“Never!” I shouted, trying to fly away from him, “You don’t know how long we’ve searched for it. There’s no way we’re just going to give you the fruits of all our efforts!”

Meanwhile, the Kingler jumped and latched himself on the back of Rackal. And then, shortly after, it charged metallic energy into his claw, and then smashed it furiously upon Rackal’s back.

“What is this!?” Rackal shouted at me, “Is he an ally of yours, Pikachu? Merely an annoyance if you think he will help!”

I didn’t know what that Kingler was doing, but he began filling Rackal’s stone body with water. Suddenly, he smashed the side of the cave, sealing the only way back up. This was getting difficult now, but I realized that Delta Green was no ally of mine.

The Dotaitos then launched a massive attack of Razor Leaves at me. This was getting ridiculous, couldn’t they see Rackal was the real threat here!? Regardless, I flew away from them, but I had sustained several cuts because of them and they stung horribly…

“Stop it!” I shouted to him, “What do you think you’re doing!?”

The Elekid continued and assault of his own, launching an aimed attack of electricity right at me. Thankfully, I was able to dodge it by flying quickly away from the shot, but still, I couldn’t handle all these enemies at once…

"You! Pikachu!” The Kingler shouted at me, “Relinquish your hold on Delta Green's rightful property and fight as yourself! That stone belongs to Delta Green!"

I ignored him, if any of us were going to get out of here alive, we needed to get rid of Rackal first. I tried flying around the room, and then suddenly, the Elekid did exactly what I was hoping he wouldn’t do…

“Here, birdie birdie!” He taunted, just before he leapt into the air and then latched on to me.

Rackal had but one attack left. I flew around the room once again dragging this Elekid with me, and then I was suddenly caught off guard, Almost immediately, he opened his massive jaws, waited for me to inevitably fly right between them, and then he snapped them shut with a powerful crunch.

For a moment, I thought we were dead, until I realized we were only inside his mouth. I managed to slow myself down to avoid crashing into the side of his mouth, but still, I was totally trapped inside. If I didn’t find a way to get out of here, Rackal would have found a way to turn his own mouth into a virtual prison cell. However, he then tried using his stone tongue to crush me against his teeth and pallet. His only problem was he couldn’t at all see where I was, but the random crashing and swaying of his tongue was almost impossible to predict. If I wasn’t quick, he would hit me and I would be squashed like a bug in here…

There was only one way out of this mess. I focused hard and tried to unleash the most powerful Thunder attack I could muster. It was very fortunate that the Elekid was an electric type, because anything else would have probably killed him. My cheeks… no… my whole body flared up with electricity like never before and for one powerful quick flash, it was like I had become as bright as the sun itself. Massive, thunderous forks of lighting and thunder originated around me. Suddenly, Rakal’s teeth were shattered like ice, his two jaws were suddenly separated, and when the massive amount of thunder was directed into them, both jaws were obliterated into pieces, which was then followed by the complete destruction of Rackal’s head and skull.

“Get the heck on or you’re going to fall down with him!” I shouted to the Elekid, not even caring out the opposition between us any more.

He grabbed on and I flew through the air. Thousands, if not millions of pieces of rocks were blasted away from me and struck the walls with a massive pounding of hail. What was left was me flying over Rackal’s headless and armless body, which quickly fell down the length of the seemingly endless hole, never to come to light again.

I took the Elekid and quickly put him in a safe place. But then, I turned to see that the Kingler was hanging off to the side… about to fall down into the massive seemingly endless pit along with the shattered body of Rackal.

I didn’t care if they were against me, I wasn’t going to let them die. I quickly moved down toward the Kingler, and then unleashed a strong gust of wind that helped blow him through the air and then be blown to safety next to the Elekid.

I was exhausted. I didn’t know how angry Delta Green was still going to be at me, but after saving two of their lives, hopefully they would think twice about attacking the one who had saved them…

Meanwhile, I was cut in a few places, and bleeding. The chamber of the Stone of Summer was destroyed, and all of the Summer Stone was currently absorbed into my soul.

Even if I wanted to give it to Delta Green… I didn’t even think it was possible…

[Finch]

OOC: I pulled a Neo! Well, kinda. I pre-wrote my post, anyway.

Over Marinas

The two Pokemon couldn’t help but admire the view as they soared above the town of Marinas. Down below, Finch could see Pokemon of all types, shapes, and sizes learning the art of combat. A Charmeleon instructor was demonstrating to the fire types how to throw flaming spears, fashioned from wood and branches, and the students were all performing wonderfully. Meanwhile, a Blastoise unit was loading its cannons with pebbles and grit, producing a shotgun blast which would be devastating to any Pokemon at short-range. These inventive techniques were all those that Finch had suggested. Some had been further developed, but the Pokemon relied on their Commander’s innovation and aptitude for fighting. It was what had gained them their previous success, after all.

“So,” Finch began, “how has the Team fared under the command of Captain rust, so far?”

There was a strange silence. Although the Commander thought this was a fairly straightforward question, his friend didn’t know what to make of it.

“We have been under the command of Seamus, sir, not rust,” said Reg, confused. “He came down from the summit of Mt Freeze, shortly after you went away, and said that you had left him in charge of Aqua and our operations while you were gone. Nobody mentioned Captain rust at all…”

“What?”

Finch did find that a little hard to believe. After all, what would a quiet and enigmatic Farfetch’d who wanted nothing more than to disappear into the shadows for eternity expect to gain from taking control of the Team? He trusted his new friend, but he would have to check up on this with Seamus, when he had the time. It wasn’t the end of the world, so it could be left alone for now, but it was a little unexpected.

“Well,” said Finch, finally, “no matter. We’d better head back to the armoury, they should have finished my dagger by now.”

[Lord Celebi]

Mt. Freeze

Finch departed. I waited for a few minutes later, in deep thought. Finch was a fool... and he was being a bad puppet as well. It seems I cannot wrap his mind around my morals... I'll just have to force them upon him. It then began to snow. The bitter cold didn't bother me... it felt the same as the extreme heat of Mt. Blaze... like nothing.

I'm going to have to cause destruction. Lots and lots of destruction if I'm going to want the continent within my grasp. I stood up for the first time in 15 minutes.

"Sir," A Machamp reported, "Finch has left the mountain..."

"Oh well..." I said.

"He's not going to be back for a while apparently..." The Machamp continued.

"Who's leading in his place?" I jumped.

"I do not know. Talk to Captain Seamus. He departed a few moments ago..." The Machamp said. Immediately, I used an Extremespeed and almost disappeared. I 'reappeared' in front of a Pidgeot.

"Pursue Captain Seamus!" I said. The Pidgeot grabbed my shoulders and took off after Seamus. A shredded piece of paper flew our way, and I grabbed it between my chin and chest. Seamus escaped.

The Pidgeot set me down on a hill between Frosty Forest and Mt. Blaze. I reassembled the paper... It read:

I will be gone for a little while. Captain rust is in charge of the team, so do as he says if you value your own lives.

See you all soon,
Commander Finch

"Seamus..." I concluded, "Is a traitor. He disposed of this note and flew off without passing it onto me."

"What should we do, Commander?" The Pidgeot addressed me, obviously reading the note.

"Deploy the Aqua Air Force," I said, "Seamus cannot escape."

"What about you?" He asked.

"I'm off to plan major destruction..." I said. Extremespeeding off the hill to Mt. Blaze.

The Stone of Autumn...

[TVTMaster]

OOC: Sweet. Now I get to go all out on you until something we do reopens the blocked exits. Of course, fighting is not really a good option for my characters until "negotiations" come to an irresolveable end. So would it be okay to have a series of shorter, dialogue-based posts, or will minor bunnying be okay?

The Pikachu had been victorious. However, there was a problem. Eretan and Rowan's efforts to weaken the Pikachu had failed completely. It seemed no worse off than before. And obviously it didn't want to give up the stone. Pin'orcen was sticking to his demands again. "You are in direct violation of the territory agreement! Identify yourself and relinquish your hold over the stone!" Obviously demands were not the correct way of going about this. Eretan, nudging Pin'orcen, and whispering something about broken dragon arms, he returned to his position.

"Uh, yes. Identify yourself and... um... please... relinquish your hold over the stone." The group sweatdropped. And all the while, Rowan was yammering on and embarrassing the whole team in front of an obviously powerful DARK agent. "Hey mister mister mister mister mister! Why didn't you die? Oh, hey, WINGS! I want wings! I want wings! Give me wings! Did you get wings from the summer rock thing? I want wings! Give me wings! Gimme gimme gimme!" More sweatdrops.

[Finch]

OOC: Fine, rust, go ahead and kill him if you must. My plan for Seamus has quickly become obsolete. Quit being a n00b and attacking our NPC's, though! We need them!

Aqua Training Camp
Marinas

“It’s ready, sir,” Jalem said, a grin plastered across his face, “and I must say, it’s one of our greatest works. Would you care to test it?”

Obviously, Finch was delighted to try out his new toy. He took the dagger gratefully from the Machoke’s hands and held it in a reverse grip. The shard had been cut and polished into a smooth, slightly curved blade, much in the style of a Tanto. The hilt was hard stone, with an Aqua “A” engraved just below the silvery blade itself. It was given to him with a scabbard and belt, made from wood and tough plant fibres respectively. The designs were simple yet striking on each, glyphic symbols having been etched on with blue dyes obtained from berries. As he swiped the air, practicing the techniques he had developed at the Aqua Combat Academy, he noticed something very pleasing.

“Wow!” exclaimed Reg, unable to believe it, “Commander, look at that!”

It was true that this dagger seemed to have a small amount of the stone’s essence. Finch watched blue and white streaks shaped like boomerangs fly straight from the slashing blade and freeze the tree trunks they collided with instantly. He felt a strange, cold pain in his side where he had been stabbed, but it wasn’t uncomfortable. This type of pain was more a feeling of real power, like his very soul had been infused with the spells of some great deity. The scar and the stitches both disappeared, and the wound was left looking as good as new, albeit a strange blue-grey colour.

“That’s odd,” said Finch. “It still feels strange, yet there’s nothing there anymore.”

“The remnants of the Stone’s energy, I suspect,” Jalem interjected. “It’s perfectly natural.”

Finch tossed the blade to his other hand and returned it to the sheath, which he then clipped with a belt around his waist. He turned to gaze around at both Jalem and Reg, who seemed impressed to no end.

“An excellent job, Jalem,” he said. “I expect a hefty bonus is on its way to you right now.”

Jalem grinned broadly and bowed. “Thank you, sir! I’m so glad you’re pleased.”

“Don’t mention it.”

Knowing that he couldn’t spend much longer dawdling if he wanted to get to the Stone before anyone else did, the Commander hopped onto Reg’s back and they took off in the direction of the Forest.

[Lord Celebi]

OOC: Oh, no. I'm not going to kill him. He fits into my plan.
IC:
Mt. Blaze
A Torkoal dived into the lava to see if there was any tunels that could be entered into the volcano. The secret to the Stone of Autumn is its Guardian: Groudon. Groudon is known to live in caves and places of extreme heat to hide away from humanity.

Seamus had been caught, and brought before my throne. The grunts left as the bruised Seamus tried to rise from the extremely hot floor. The Farfetch'd dropped his stick trying to rise, while trying to not keep his hand on the hot floor for too long, or he'd experience pain.

"Good thing I don't have a wimp like you training here," I smiled, "Or I'd have to kill you..."

"You," Seamus spit blood out of his beak... "Bastard..."

"You betrayed Aqua," I said.

"You have no right to Aqua's power. Your goals are completely opposite of Finch's!" Seamus boldly exclaimed, rising on wobbly legs.

"Right? Fool. I already control Aqua. I am Finch's head advisor. My tactical genius is what got Aqua to what it was today. Aqua is MINE. Finch may have birthed it... but I own it!" I exclaimed, moving my scythes slightly.

"Go to hell..." Seamus struggled, "Fu... F*ck you..."

"I like your spunk..." I said, "I stepped out of like Seamus... you could last a few days here... but not with that attitude... I like that. You're not afraid of me. You're not afraid of death for what you believe in. How would you like to command a mission?"

"What mission would that be?" Seamus asked.

"Commanding Squad Alpha, my personal commandos, into finding the Stone of Autumn. I would help you, of course," I said, smiling once again.

"And if I refuse?" Seamus asked.

"You will die a slow, painful death," I said, "You'll wish you were that Hitmontop."

"I guess its a deal then," Seamus said...

[Neo Emolga]

OOC: I’m not too sure what Pokémon Rowan is…

Thunder Meadow, Underground Cavern
12th Sublevel, Stone of Summer Chamber

For now… Team Delta Green didn’t attack, which was a sigh of relief for me. I didn’t know what else I could give them though. However, the Kingler looked right back up at me and barked, totally ignoring the fact I just saved his life…

“You are in direct violation of the territory agreement!” The Kingler shouted, “Identify yourself and relinquish your hold over the stone!”

However, the Dotaitos nudged him, and the Kingler settled down. That was a relief to see, because I really just wanted them to relax…

“Uh, yes.” The Kingler replied, “Identify yourself and... um... please... relinquish your hold over the stone.”

“Hey mister mister mister mister mister!” One of the others yapped on, “Why didn't you die? Oh, hey, WINGS! I want wings! I want wings! Give me wings! Did you get wings from the summer rock thing? I want wings! Give me wings! Gimme gimme gimme!”

I took a deep breath…

“Okay, okay, relax…” I told the group, just trying to shake off all the attention, “Look… I’ll tell you why we were here and who I am…”

I looked down for a minute, sighed a little, and then looked back at them.

“My name’s Neo, I’m a high-ranking officer of DARK.” I told them, trying to be honest with them, “The very leader of DARK’s Windblazers. Windblazers… you see, are Pokémon riders that ride upon flying Pokémon, such as me and my Donkarasu. On the surface, you met a few of the others. Well, the thing that drew us here… was yes, the Stone of Summer.”

I relaxed for a moment, and then continued.

“In the Windblazer sect of DARK, we find all creatures that have been gifted with the power of flight very sacred.” I told them, hoping they would understand, “It fuels the love and passion between the Windblazer rider and their mount. When we heard about the Stone of Summer and its ability to grant the gift of flight, we immediately searched high and low for it… until our route led us here. Nathaniel and the others insisted that I, the leader of the Windblazers, take the stone’s powers upon myself, and yes, become sacred with the gift of flight. And that’s why… we religiously pursued it…”

I had looked at my own wings for a moment, and then looked back at the Delta Green officers…

“Look, I don’t think its possible for me to… ‘unabsorb’ the stone and give it to you.” I told them, “And even if I could, I would be sacrificing such an ultimate blessing. So, instead of raising such dark and violent tensions among our clans, I thought I would come up with an offer. What… can DARK do for Delta Green to make up for this? It may be impossible to give back the stone at this point, so I’m willing to negotiate an offer of your choosing. After all, we both want peace and prosperity. Let’s not let this erupt into a horrible conflict, but instead make it an opportunity for both of us to gain something from it.”

I then looked to them, hoping this was a solution to the problem…

[TVTMaster]

OOC: I'm guessing "Give us another stone if you find one" won't work. And Rowan is a Hayashigame, the mid evo of the Naetoru line. Eretan's little brother. Eretan's terms are not an ultimatum and are still negotiable. Oh, and don't forget the cave was sealed off by Rackal.

Eretan stared. At Pin'orcen. The uninterrupted period of listening must have been too much for the protocol-obsessed Kingler. Staring at the Pikachu, he put his foot over Pin's mouth, and spoke. "The stone of Summer is obviously something of great value to team Delta Green. However, it was found on our land. The territory agreement entitles the claim of any object found inside team borders to the discoverer as long as he is part of that team. The Summer Stone belongs to us, technically. But as it appears to be an untransferrable item, our conditions are relatively low. Delta Green is given free run of DARK territory for search purposes." Neo considered. "If you do not find any Stone..." "Then we will not oblige to seek any further opportunity to exploit this... debt."

[Neo Emolga]

Thunder Meadow, Underground Cavern
12th Sublevel, Stone of Summer Chamber

The Dotaitos then looked up at me, and then stared into my eyes…

“The stone of Summer is obviously something of great value to team Delta Green.” The Dotaitos told me, “However, it was found on our land. The territory agreement entitles the claim of any object found inside team borders to the discoverer as long as he is part of that team. The Summer Stone belongs to us, technically. But as it appears to be an untransferrable item, our conditions are relatively low. Delta Green is given free run of DARK territory for search purposes.”

“And if you do not find any Stone...?” I asked him.

“Then we will not oblige to seek any further opportunity to exploit this... debt.” He replied, making his decision final.

I thought about for a moment, and then nodded…

“Fine, I give you full permission to search our areas for any of the other three stones.” I told him, giving him full rights, “After all, we did trespass on Delta Green territory when we shouldn’t have. To make up for this, you would be welcome to into our lands without any hostile confrontations or without questioning. And if you need a guide, we would be pleased to lend you one in your search, as long as you leave our lands alone and exactly the way you found them.”

I then took another breath, and then looked into their eyes…

“In truth, I feel I can trust you.” I told them, knowing they were as every much loyal to the case of Delta Green as much as I and the rest of the Windblazers were loyal to DARK, “Thank you for your understanding…”

Meanwhile, I took a few moments to look away. The exit was shut for the moment, blocked by rocks. Even though I could fly up and escape, they couldn’t…

“Come, let’s clear these stairs and get out of this dark and foreboding place.” I told them, already on it, “I’ll help you get out of here…”

Hopefully… this would be enough to show I was serious about this…

[TVTMaster]

OOC: Yay, better PM Milos and Scott. I think the only available stone in DARK territory would be the Spring one, since the Autumn one is in Mt. Blaze and the Winter one is in Frosty Forest.

"Thank you. Hopefully there will be a peace between our teams for our time. Now, about these rocks..." Eretan brought his foot down. A crack ran toward a blocked stair. A pile of rubble cleared, revealing a staircase. And down that staircase came dozens of angry Crobat. Eretan's lucky day. A 4x weakness and their invulnerablity to his attacks. "Holy shiznit!" Cub jumped down from a ledge with his spike, and began channeling electric power through it. A bolt struck one Crobat. It wasn't fazed in the least. "Roaaaaabach! No leaving with the remains of Master Rackal behind you!" "Oh, snap."

Pin'orcen jumped into action. His claw was surrounded in a glowing film or water, and it grew a rough cpating of spikes as he jumped for a second Crobat. Smashing the thing to earth, he began pummeling it with his claw until the Crobat threw him off and came in for a Rapid Spin. Rowan started asking one why it was hurting his friends. The chatter alone was enough to freeze three of them in bored lethargy while he attacked with Crunch. One of the Crobat, with his ears plugged, went in for the kill.

Eretan knew he was doomed when the Sludge Bomb came flying. He moved instinctively out of the way, and tried to repeat a move learned long ago: Stone Edge. His shell hardened. The mountains on his back grew higher. Jumping, he bashed one Crobat with his shell. It fell unmoving to the ground. But it was hopeless. More Crobat, with the occasional Golbat moved to attack, while walls unfolded into Graveler and Golem. They all attacked with a single-minded fury rarely seen in wild pokemon. That dragon must've been the lifeblood of the mountain to them...

[Knightblazer]

Frosty Forest
Still Somewhere...

Lucied was still chasing after Articuno, wanting to get the heck outta the place. The Mightyena strained to follow the long, swishy tail that was Articuno. But it was proving a bit impossible, due to the fact that the bird was quite fast for him to follow. “Hey!” he shouted, “Can’t ya slow down for a second?”

A chuckle emanated within the bird as it replied mentally, No, I can’t; this is already at my slowest, and slower and I’d be plummeting towards the earth.

With an expatiated sigh, the wolf yelled out again, “Well, can’t you stop somewhere, at least? My legs are getting – whhhhaaaaaaaaaa!” he was suddenly cut off when the ground below him gave way. Time seemed to slow down all of a sudden. Lucied could see Articuno slowly swooping towards him, each piece of dirt falling bit by bit as the earth broke apart and swallowed him whole. Lucied began plunging towards the unknown.

“YYYYYYYYYYAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!” he screamed as he plummeted towards the bottom of the whole. Wind whistled past his ears and fur as the blast of air passed him. The Mightyena continued to yell until his back came in contact with something hard, slippery and cold. The sudden chill entering his body was more than enough to send himself into mild shock and the wolf blacked out.

Knightblazer

[Shen]

OOC: :oops: I have...a lot of catching up to do...sorry if my post is short, I'm short on time. BTW, Cameron is the Plusle traveling w/ Landon and Zhunjai.

IC: Landon

War is hell. You cannot escape it. You can't avoid it. You can't pacify this. Even as I saw the Great stone walls of Seratine, I realized the mechanisms of conflict had been set in motion. The question is, against who?

"Are you alraight?" Zhunjai asked, shaking me out of my thoughts. "You seem to have a lot on your mind..."

I smiled at her. "As good as I'll ever be. But..." I looked again at the wall. "I can't help but wonder what we've been involved in."

"Well, that can't be helped." Cameron walked up behind me. "We are all nervous about the oncoming wars."

"Wars?" I asked.

"Often, there will be multiple wars fought, some one after the other, and some at the same time. This fragile world is unpredictable like that."

"Hmmm..." I stared again at the walls, then looked at the note from the Dark Angel Renagade Knights, or D.A.R.K. for short. I read it over for the unpteenth time. "We need to make our way to Lesalas. The note says we may contact them there to join their ranks."

"They sound like heroes here. The city supports them with all their energy." Zhunjai said.

"It says that we can meet with a Pikachu named Neo for details. If he is unavailable, we will be directed to the officer in charge." I qouted directly from the note, "He is the leader of agroup in D.A.R.K. known as Windblazers, who are warrior pokemon who fight on the backs of flying pokemon." I looked at the other two. "They sound like elite fighters to me. I wonder if we'll be good enough to join them..."

Zhunjai chuckled. "I doubt it. We are just normal pokemon..."

"You forget, not all pokemon went through the hardships we did." I said to her.

"Especially the horror you've witnessed...you're right." Zhunjai looked confident. "Maybe we should check into these 'Windblazers' after all."

"First, we've got to make our way to Lesalas...it's to the east of here, right?" I asked.

"That's what my map says..." she responded after pulling out a map from her backpack. "Not much on the way there, save Waterfall Pond...and Lesalas seems to be near Solar Cave, too."

"Then we shouldn't have too much trouble getting there then, should we?"

We decided to go to the market first, so we could make a small increase in our stocks. We couldn't be too careful, and, with my appetite...we'd be out of food after three days or less...So, we stockpiled on fruits, water, and berries before deciding to head out of Seratine.

Getting out was a little harder than I thought. There were gates placed around the incompleted wall where pokemon flooded in and out of the city. Progress would've been faster, but, due to the coming war, we were identified by guards for the safety of the residents. They already arrested two suspected spies from Rocket and Aqua, so everyone was on tenterhooks. At the gate, we gave our new identifications to the guard, and he let us through after a short check in the record book next to him. I wasn't sure, but when we went through the gate, I was sure I saw him wink before quietly saying, "Welcome to D.A.R.K."

We happily made our way to the giant city of Lesalas. For three days, we traversed through the forests and plains, meeting nothing more than a couple of Nidoran. when spirits were low, I told a few jokes. We stayed happy for a while.

Finally, after climbing a steep hill behind Solar Cave, we saw Lesalas on the horizon. We were about to begin an exciting, yet dangerous, chapter of our lives.

[Neo Emolga]

Thunder Meadow, Underground Cavern
12th Sublevel, Stone of Summer Chamber

At long last, the Dotaitos then spoke to me…

“Thank you.” He responded, “Hopefully there will be a peace between our teams for our time. Now, about these rocks...”

When he brought he foot down, I was caught by surprise. A crack had run along the stairs and had shifted the rock formation away. However, soon after, an enormous swarm of Crobat had burst through the opening, and immediately attacked us.

“Holy shiznit!” The Elekid shouted out.

He immediately used his spike and linked it with his electricity, which then allowed him to aim it at one of the Crobats. He had shot one of them perfectly, but it didn’t even affect it. I was totally baffled by it, the Crobat should have been weak against thunder and lightning attacks…

“Roaaaaabach!” One of them screamed, “No leaving with the remains of Master Rackal behind you!”

“Oh snap…” The Elekid gasped.

I looked at the Crobat, and then prepared to strike.

“We’ll just see about that.” I told them, “We’re getting out of here whether we have to tear you apart or not!”

I normally would have used a Thunderbolt, but I was concerned with it… being too strong. Instead of attacking them with that, I flew back into the air, and launched a quick and brutal Air Cutter attack. One of the unfortunate Crobat had its body lacerated, and its wings torn. Suddenly, it was totally unable to fly, and plummeted into the dark pit below.

Shortly after, the Kingler prepared his own assault, readying his giant claw and covering it with a coat of water, and was then enveloped with sharp spikes. He then lunged at the enemy Crobat, and attacked him. However, shortly after, he was overwhelmed with a Rapid Spin attack and was attacked relentlessly.

Meanwhile, the Dotaitos quickly dodged a Sludge Bomb attack, and then amplified his defenses by crouching and then hardening his shell, causing the mountain on his back to grow in size. He then jumped at the Crobat and managed to slam right into it, throwing it right into the wall.

More Crobat, some Golbat, and then more Gravelers and Golems emerging from the walls. This was only getting worse faster and faster…

“Delta Green!” I shouted at them, seeing they were being overwhelmed, “Make a run for it and just get out of here! I’ll hold them off and try to give you enough time to escape!”

I couldn’t use Thunder while so close to Delta Green’s forces, or else it might kill them. Instead, I decided to draw the oncoming horde of enemy Pokémon toward me instead…

“Yeah, want to know who destroyed Rackal?” I taunted them, drawing them to fight me instead of Delta Green, “That was me. I’m the one you want. They had nothing to do with it…”

“You…” One of the Golems hissed, “You’re wearing the wings. You destroyed Rackal and consumed the Summer Stone!”

I then unleashed another fury of Air Cutter strikes, hitting two of the Gravelers before it managed to shatter them into pieces. However, I was being quickly surrounded by all of them. I then took to the air, and flew my way around the ruined chamber, keeping away from Delta Green’s forces so they would focus more on me instead of them.

“No one… escapes these chambers…” One of the Golbat hissed at me.”

“You know,” I told him, unleashing a Thunderbolt right at him once I was far enough away from Delta Green to avoid hurting them, “I’d like to help you, but I just can’t fix stupid…”

Immediately, his entire body was violently fried from the excess of electricity. Suddenly, I had been hit from behind with a hideous Sludge Bomb. I was thrown forward and out of shock and anger, I unleashed a massive Thunder attack, not even really concentrating on it.

At least ten of the Golbats and Crobats around me were fried instantly, zapping them into oblivion. However, I was weak… and poisoned.

I quickly flew toward Nathaniel’s pack, firing back several powerful Shockwave attacks at my pursuers. Once I flew next to it, I reached out a grabbed it. I quickly checked inside, and saw Nathaniel had come prepared…

Inside was an Escape Orb, a quick and clean way out of here. However, Delta Green needed it way more than I did. I quickly flew toward them, and tossed the Escape Orb to the Dotaitos.

“Use it!” I shouted, still trying to fight off the oncoming horde, “Just get out of here, it will bring you to the surface with no problem at all!”

My last resort was quickly stuffing an Oran and Pecha Berry mouth, and chewed quickly to open up their curative effects. Immediately, the poison was flushed out, and the cuts were quickly healing.

Now I prepared to unleash my real power against these pansies…

[Knightblazer]

Frosty Forest
Underground - Unknown

The silence awoke Lucied.

Groaning, the wolf got up shakily on his feet, wincing a little as pain shot through his calves. Apparently the fall below had caused much more damage than it seemed. The Mightyena sighed unconsciously as he frowned a bit, scanning the area around him. The entire place was made of frozen ice and dirt, the pale blue of the walls contrasting against the dark brown that was the earth. Padding around, the wolf spotted icy stalagmites and stalactites here and there, the frozen crimson liquid splattered along the frozen edges sending chills up his spine. Apparently he had been lucky to survive – a centimeter away from his landing and the sharp spikes would have killed him.

Lucied looked around a bit more and realized that he was seemingly stuck in a cave –or was it a tunnel? He amended after spotting a few exits along the sides of the confined area. Huge, gaping holes were seen, the pitch darkness inside not exactly comforting the Mightyena. Which one should I choose? He wondered to himself as he looked up, the way above only as a small speck of light. It seemed that he had fallen a long way down.

“Articuno?” called the wolf out, but not too loudly – it could cause quite a mess within the caves after all. “Hello? Anyone?” he tried again, but silence was his only answer. “Wei? You ren ma?” Lucied called out, this time in another language. Again, no answer except silence. With another huge sigh, the raven-furred hound slumped onto the icy floor, this time sighing in defeat.

Failing in trying to call Articuno, the wolf looked around again to find a broken part of a icy stalagmite, the pointed end blunt due to weariness. With a sudden idea entering his head, Lucied padded towards the icy spike and picked it up. Well, looks like it’s all up to good ol’ Lady Luck, he thought as he placed the broken stalagmite onto the icy floor. The Mightyena spun the spike, the whistling sound entering his ears. The icy blue thing spun around the slippery ice until it stopped, the slim end pointing towards a hole in the left. Lucied grinned as he picked up the icy stick in between his jaws.

“As they say, ‘when in doubt, head left’,” he said to himself as the wolf leaped into the inky black hole, not knowing what Fate lay had in store for him…

OOC: Yeah, Lucied just spoke Chinese; just ingore it - its more of a humor than anything.

Knightblazer

[Neo Emolga]

Thunder Meadow, Underground Cavern

Surrounded. Under normal circumstances, I would have been finished without the Stone of Summer’s powers inside of me. Still, there were too many to attack outright, I had to separate them and handle them one by one.

A pack of five Crobats were leading the massive horde, all of them just itching to suck me dry. Quickly, I prepared another Thunderbolt, unleashing a massive chain of lightning that struck them violently with a crushing amount of electrical power. I watched them literally flare up like lights before plummeting into the chasm below.

Immediately, I flew away from the oncoming horde of enemy Pokémon. To push them back, I unleashed a massive hurricane against them… much bigger than I had expected. As they were thrown back, I followed through with another blazing Thunder attack, now attacking them as one large clump of enemy forces that would easily be surrounded by the furious amount of lightning and thunder.

It was menacing to them, but still not enough to bring them down. I just didn’t get it, the amount of power in these Pokémon was ridiculous. Regardless, I kept away and unleashed another assault, bringing down several more of them, and shattering three more of the Gravelers into pieces. However, as soon as I had taken them down, more and more of them were spilling out of the walls. There was only one choice left now. I had to get out of here, the amount of enemy Pokémon was nearly never-ending. As for Delta Green, I knew the Escape Orb I handed them would be exactly what they needed to get out of here. As for me… I was going to have to take the expressway out of this place…

I flew toward the ceiling, and surrounded myself with a furious aura of thunderous electrical energy. With very little effort, I was able to smash my way through the ceiling and then into the 11th sublevel. One after another, I tore my way through floor after floor, shattering the tiles like ice and the rock like brittle wood. I had smashed though the fifth sublevel floor, ripping open a hole in each level of the cavern until I had finally reached the beginning chamber, the exact area where Nathaniel had turned around. When I looked below, I saw what looked like a giant vertical tunnel leading all the way down through the floors of the cavern and into the same seemingly endless pit where Rackal had come from. Definitely not a sight for those who were afraid of heights…

Shortly after, I surged toward the tunnel’s entrance, and then flew out. The other Windblazers who were besides the entrance were suddenly in shock, and almost didn’t recognize me at first…

“Nightwing…?” Nathaniel looked at me in awe, “Chief!? Look at you! Look at those wings!”

They were all amazed, but what they didn’t realize was how much hell it was to try and get out of there with the stone’s powers.

“Nightwing, you’ve… you really have joined the ranks of the sacred…” Chaz said to me in amazement, “How… how do you feel? Did you get all of the stone?”

“That’s right…” I told them, still somewhat feeling like this was still a dream, “I… can’t describe the feeling I had when I touched that stone. It was so wonderful…”

However, something else had come into Nathaniel’s mind. He looked stressed for a moment.

“What happened with Delta Green?” He asked me, “I tried to hold them back but the insisted on heading in there. Did you stop them?”

“Actually…” I told him, showing him how I work, “We both saved each other’s lives. I gave them your Escape Orb, so they should be fine. However, they saw me use the Stone of Summer. They wanted it for themselves, so I came to an agreement with them.”

“And what agreement was this?” Nathaniel asked me.

I looked down for a moment, and then closed my eyes…

“They want their own stone, and are willing to search for one.” I told Nathaniel, “If they find it happens to reside in our lands, I have given them full permission to search for it, as well as offering our help. I consider it to be a fair exchange.”

“In our lands?” Nathaniel asked, someone shocked I was willing to let someone else into our territory.

“That’s correct, and they are to be treated with respect while they are here.” I told him, giving him the hint to pass on the message, “They made it clear they would not disrupt our activities. Meanwhile, this exchange and agreement… may just be the first path of peace toward Delta Green and DARK. We no longer need to think of each other as enemies…”

I would not forget them and their acts of understanding…

[Knightblazer]

Frosty Forest
Underground - Location Unknown

“Lost… again,” sighed the Mightyena once again to himself as he padded around for what seemed to be the hundred-and-thirteenth-time into the same chamber, the icy stick still in his jaws. Sighing yet again, Lucied dropped the stick, an ominous clang ringing through the silent chambers. Just then, the wolf felt a shiver race up his spine as a chilling breeze swept over him. The raven beast cursed himself as he felt his limbs beginning to numb by the…

Breeze?

Lucied immediately snapped, whipping his head around to see a small crack from one of the walls. It was small, but when the Mightyena put his ear there, he shivered slightly as the icy whistle blew past the silky tip of his ear, chilling it. Grimacing, the wolf looked at the crack. There was no doubt now; that wall was hiding something. Hopefully an exit from these freezing confines. Backing away, the Mightyena charged at the frozen portal and with a roar, slammed hard against it. The ceiling shook, a few razor sharp stalagmites dropping from the top that Lucied managed to evade from. He looked at the wall, and sighed upon seeing that not a scratch had been done to it.

Well, I guess its time for Plan B… the wolf sighed to himself again as he opened his jaws, a purple ball of swirling energy slowly forming between shaking jaws. Lucied positioned himself below the area where the stalagmites just dropped – hopefully it would increase his chance of surviving. Here goes nothin’! the raven beast thought as he released his Shadow Ball attack. The ball collided hard against the center of the frozen block of ice. The result? Instantaneous.

The impact broke the wall all right, but the shock had begun to send the hanging stalagmites plummeting down towards the ground. Lucied nimbly dodged the razor points, wincing when one managed to pick a little into his skin before the Mightyena took it out. Icy spikes of doom were falling everywhere, and the wolf would almost swear that if there were any living targets there, it would be like a Cavern Of The Impaled. Finally, with a loud roar, Lucied leaped through the final chunk of ice blocking the way and landed onto the hidden entrance just as the final thorn landed with a loud crash. Claws emerged from their hiding spot within the paws as they dug themselves into the ice so as not to let Lucied slip.

With another sigh, Lucied looked at the destruction his action had caused, and with a soft apology towards Articuno, glanced at the stairs leading into the inky darkness. A sudden flash of light at his side caught the Mightyena’s attention. Turning to look at the source, the wolf was surprised when he saw a note etched onto the icy walls.

To Whom It May Concern:

Congratulations on finding the entrance to the Winter Maze. This, curious one, is the entrance to a road of an item with great power and foretold in legends. The road to it is long and harsh, but if you preserve, the rewards are justified. The wicked horrors of thirteen await before you if you so foolishly dare to tread upon, but I must warn you – none have ever survived upon entering, for the Mist Dragon has claimed them as its own.

Lucied gulped loudly as he read the message. It was hardly comforting at all. However, he was most curious about the ‘item of great power’ it had mentioned. Perhaps a special way for me to get out? the Mightyena mused to himself with a smirk. Well, if this can lead me out… then I’d better go for it! he thought as he entered the terror that the message named the Winter Maze.

Knightblazer

[Neo Emolga]

En Route to Lesalas

Shortly after, we had taken back into the air, and flew toward the eastern coastal city of Lesalas. The thought, the very feel of now being able to soar through the skies wouldn’t have to limit myself to sitting on Narsaka’s back. I could become one with the winds and with the sky as the clouds passed under my feet. The dream… the mantra… was now truly alive…

I did not know what would happen when I reached home in Lesalas, but… considering the ways of the Windblazers… I expected nothing less than a celebration. This… was something they would all be amazed at…

And I adored flying. The more and more I did it, the more like I felt like I was born this way to always be able to do this. Never did I have the fear of falling as I let my newly created wings take me all the way home…

Lesalas, DARK Territory

The sight of Windblazers arriving in town was not an unusual sight. However, they had seen another one flying besides them, not riding their mount. To them, they were surprised at it for a moment, until I landed in the town square on my own two feet with my wings fully spread. Some of the local citizens gasped at the sight, and one of them came rushing to me.

“Chief…” One of the DARK citizens asked me, “You… you really found the stone!?”

“That’s right.” I told him with a confident smile.

I was quite surprised how fast news of the occurrence spread around. Seratine and South Bend would soon hear about it, while Lesalas had already prepared for what they would call the “Festival of Feathers,” what would actually become an official holiday of ours to be celebrated for many years to come. I was… surprised to say the least, I didn’t think so much would have been done to rejoice in me. However, I remained reserved about it, knowing an ego was a dangerous thing to feed.

Before this had happened, the Solace was just a period of three days for resting. However, this event triggered for it to be three days of celebrating with dancing, music, and plenty of live entertainment. And the theme for it was feathers, wings, and the gift of flying. I was almost a little bashful that I was the main star of this whole celebration…

Still, even besides the happiness that came with it, I knew it would give our own warriors a strong sense of morale and reassure our citizens they were following the right faction. At one point, I had flown into the sky and demonstrated the new power I had acquired. Their description was pretty pensive, saying it was as if I became a living, blazing star.

When the night had come, I was tired from all the conflicts I had in that blasted cavern, and then all the festivities that were held that night. Meanwhile, I knew that when I awoke, there would be two more days of celebration.

However, I also knew what it would spell for those who opposed us. They would probably hear news about this, and that one of the stones had been taken in by a key commander of DARK.

They would think twice before coming after us…

[SpazzedOutRayquaza]

Great Canyon

I awoke. Looking around, I saw nothing but barren, sun-scorched rock. Great, I thougt to myself. How the heck am I supposed to get out of here? Luckily, I had just gotten a lot of sleep, and was well-rested for the trip out to meet my new teammates. And so, I began walking, ready for any encounter. I decided to head north.

The scenery was very similar for a long time, and I was getting board. "I want something to happen!" I roared. My voice echoed through the canyon. Suddenly, I heard a rumbling! In dread, I turned around. What I had feared was happening. Well, I got my wish! I thought, trying to be on the optimistic side. Instead of running away, I simply braced myself for the impact of the humongous rock slide tumbling down a cliff in the canyon. When I was ready, I unleashed a Hyper Beam attack on the rocks! It hit only two of them, but the exploded to pieces. It didn't do much, and it was too late to run away. I stopped and waited for it to hit me. The full blunt of the rocks hit me, and I fell down, fainted.

Hours later, I woke up, somehow ahead of where I fainted. Still weak, I flopped back down into the cool sand, taking another break. If a major rock slide can't kill me, then what can? I was foolish. It was like I had never known another pokemon in my life. I lay there for a while, until I heard a voice.

"Give... me..." I immediately stopped resting and got up. A Dusclops was right in front of me, asking me to give it something. "Your... soul..." I stepped back, then stepped forward.

"Go away!" I snapped. I appeared confident, but I was a bit nervous on the inside.

"Kill...." It muttered. Apperently, any kind of incompassionate behavior to any of the local pokemon. Or at least Dusclops.

"Shut up!" I pushed, and then lashed out at it with Crunch. It seemed to shut up for a few minutes, giving me time to get away. Whew! I thought. I started climbing again, and relaxed a bit. For a while, I encountered no other pokemon.

When I finally got to the top of one of the sun-baked footes, I started to lie down, only to see a horde of Dusclops and Duskull. "Uh oh..." I started backing up, but saw I was completely surrounded.

"Give us... your soul..." I looked around nervously, deciding that I wasn't ready for anything.

OOC:
Hee hee. Cliffhanger.

[Finch]

OOC: So it's like that, KB? Prepare for a battle.

Above Frosty Forest

It seemed to Finch that the further towards the center of the forest they went, the deeper the blue of his blade became. Articuno was right, it would lead him to the stone. But something didn't quite feel right... already, Finch was having that gut feeling, like he was being led into something. His desire and need for the Stone were prevalent though, as always, and so he didn't say a word until he noticed something below. It was a clearing in the trees.

"Hm?" he said, obviously having spotted something. "You see that, Reg?"

Reg cooed gently and nodded. "Yes, Commander, tracks."

"Well, then," said Finch, "down we go."

In an instant, the swift Pidgeot had touched down on the ground below, and they were observing the paw prints of what seemed to be a wolf-like Pokemon.

The Mightyena? We should find out what's going on here.

Without saying another word, Finch took the initiative and dashed off in the direction the tracks were headed. Gliding low behind him, Reg struggled to keep up with the Hitmonlee's blistering pace and great strides, both impressive even for one of his species. It was no wonder how Finch had fought so many successful battles, he certainly seemed capable. Not only that, but he was observant too, and noticed the gaping hole that lay in the ground ahead of him from a mile off. The weird thing was, the tracks led straight into it. He halted and looked at his flying comrade, trying to create some plan of action.

"Well," he said, "this must be some scout's outpost. Someone's trying to steal our secrets, and we have to stop them. I don't know how deep it is, so you'll have to glide us in."

"Fine with me, Commander."

[Lord Celebi]

Mt. Blaze Cavern

Our Torkoal squads had found an underground cavern in the volcano. Dugtrio and Sandshrew had dug into this cavern, and we were deploying Squad Alpha, commanded by Seamus, to search the cavern for any ways further into the volcano or the stone itself.

They had found an entrance to a subcavern, in which, Seamus personally invited me to come with. It got much hotter inside the cavern then on the volcano, due to the extremely large amount of lava under there.

We continued walking until we jumped down a hole, where Squad Alpha was waiting for us. We continued to trek through the subcavern, determined to find the stone. At the end of the cavern, there was a lava pit. Several Torkoal were sent into the pit to find and entrances or exits.

A Torkoal came up and said, "There's a way into another cavern!"

"We can't swim in lava like you can," Seamus said to the Torkoal, "Dig through the ground in there up here!"

"Sir!" Torkoal dived again. We waited about an hour. I sat on a nearby rock, thinking about the stone. Seamus and several Alpha Squad members began to walk around aimlessly, bored out of their minds, while the others trained.

When the first Torkoal broke through ground. I got up, surprised. Seamus lead the troops and myself into Floor 3 of the volcano cavern...

[Shen]

On Route to Lesalas

We decided to sleep on top of that hill that night, as it was late by the time we saw Lesalas. Tired after our journey, we fell asleep soon.

I slept fitfully that night. I had vivid dreams of a Pikachu dashing along several trap-laden corridors deep within the earth, narrowly escaping each one unscathed. he seemed very skilled. Then, I saw him enter a gigantic chamber, lit up by the most beautiful, most gigantic stone I had ever seen. I was awed at the sight...or, I would've been, had this dream been about me...

He walked towards the stone, but the chamber began to quake, and a great stone dragon rose from the crumbling floor. In desperation, the Pikachu leapt at the stone...and began absorbing the stone into his body. When the stone was half gone, he stopped, only to admire the magnificent wings that had sprouted from his back. Then, after the dragon attacked, he absorbed the rest of the stone. The power inside him was so immense, electricity was involuntarily lancing from his body.

Another group of pokemon entered the chamber, and they all did battle with the great stone beast, eventually defeating it. They were about to leave the chamber when a group of Crobat attacked. The Pikachu handed the other group something, and they dissappeared. Then, he brutally attacked the Crobat. When he finished them, he used his mighty power to smash through the ceiling of the chamber and made his way back up the tunnel. There, he met some friends of his, and after a short conversation, they headed over the landscape, the Pikachu at their head.

It was about this time that I woke up suddenly. I shook my head, thinking there was no way that could've been real. I joined my friends in a short breakfast, and we began making our way to the city.

Something told me to look up suddenly. In fear, my head shot skyward, searching for some threat. Instead of a predator, what met my sight was more awe-inspiring.

The Pikachu from my dream, closely followed by a group of flying mounts, flew overhead into the city.

We were stunned, to say the least. We almost couldn't believe what we just saw. Feeling elated, I ran to the city, hoping to just catch a glimpse of this legendary Pikachu.

Lesalas

We reached the city borders just as cheering rang throughout the city. They must've been more elated than I was. It was then I realized that the Pikachu I saw was the one that the letter told us about. That was the commander we might get to talk to. Neo.

Walking throughout the city, we caught a glimpse of Neo showing the intensity of his power to the other pokemon, who were almost certainly all Team D.A.R.K. members. I heard some mention of something called the "Festival of Feathers" or something like that. We tried asking around to where we should go, but the citizens were to distracted or to happy to notice us.

So we just decided that we should find the nearest inn and stay there until we figure out what the heck we were supposed to do.

That night, a great festivity began, in honor of "The Chief" getting the sacred Stone of Summer. We tried to just stay in the room and discuss what we were going to do, but the sound of a celebration was just too enticing too me. Zhunjai, however, was a little less eager to join in.

"We can't, Landon!" She spouted angrily after I asked her the seventh time if we could go. "We aren't exactly real members of D.A.R.K. yet, or even citizens of Lesalas. How could we, if we don't belong yet?!"

"Aw, come on!" I begged with her, "We are pretty much D.A.R.K. members, so why can't we? Besides, I was hoping to meet an official of the Team and question him about what we're supposed to do." My eyes became bright as I looked sadly at her. "Pleeeeaase?"

The Sandshrew sighed. "You are so childish sometimes..." Then she chuckled. "How can I say no to that? It's pretty rational...for once."

"Hey, I'm pretty smart!" I defended, "I haven't made one irrationnal decision for at least a year, when I lived at the Canyon!"

"I know, I just like pulling your leg." She got off the bed she was sitting on. "Well, let's go find one of those officials. Maybe we can have some fun while we're at it."

Cameron and I high-fived as we left the room to join the raccous celebrations outside. It had been awhile since we had some fun like this.

Outside was hectic. All over were pokemon drinking with friends, dancing, singing, and performing all over the streets. There was hardly room to walk, but we managed to get to the drink bar set up. We ordered three Sparkling Oran Ciders, and sat there, enjoying the best drink we'd ever tasted. The bubbles were so tingly on my tongue, I couldn't stop giggling. Never before had I tasted such a wonderful liquid. This was new to me, so I enjoyed every bit of it.

At the bar, I noticed a group sitting at a large table, cheering and laughing uproariously. I strained my excellent ears to catch every word.

A Sneasel was surrouded by a group of pokemon that kept prodding him for details of something. He took another swig of his drink and continued what he was saying before.

"And so, we were a little worried after those Delta Green guys went in after him, but after a little while, he comes blasting out of the tunnel with those magnificent wings of his, scaring the hell outta us!" He said to them . At this point, another cheer went up. "I don't know why, but the Chief does more and more amazing things every time! He must be a miracle!"

After more cheering, the Sneasel emptied his drink and left the group, much to their dissapointment. Nudging Zhunjai in the ribs, I told her what I just heard from the Sneasel. After getting cuffed around the ears for eavesdropping, we decided to ask him what we should do. So, draining our drinks in unison, we got off the seats and left the bar, to follow the Sneasel up the street.

When there was a little room and a break in the noise for him to be able to hear us, I pulled out the letter and called to him. "Umm..excuse me, sir, could you help us?"

The Sneasel evidently heard us, cause he spun around almost faster than I could see, looking over the three of us.

I continued. "Uh, we were wondering if you could instruct us on what to do. You see, we're apparently new inductees to D.A.R.K., but the letter didn't exactly tell us where to go, besides Lesalas. Could you direct us in the right direction?" And, to confirm to him what I just said, i held out the letter.

OOC: Neo, could you RP the Sneasel (as if you don't know who he is) on this? I'm not sure how he should react, and I'm a little afraid this might be counted as bunnying...

[Finch]

Frosty Forest
Underground

It was tight, but the two Pokemon were managing to navigate through the underground chambers below the forest with relative ease. Down here, there were more tracks in the ice and dirt. Someone had definitely walked here recently, they were still fresh, and it was the same set of pawprints that Finch had seen before. Moreover, Finch could've sworn he'd seen traces of blood on a rock at the entrance to the underground corridor, signalling a struggle of some kind. disregarding it as irrelevant, he hadn't mentioned it.

Soon, they had come to a large chamber, the ceiling of which was lined with broken-off stalagmites and the floor had been jabbed mercilessly by what appeared to be the fallen tips.

Something's definitely not quite as it should be...

A wall in front of him had been smashed to bits, leaving rubble everywhere, and it led onto yet another corridor. A message was illuminated to Finch's left as he dismounted the Pidgeot.

To Whom It May Concern:

Congratulations on finding the entrance to the Winter Maze. This, curious one, is the entrance to a road of an item with great power and foretold in legends. The road to it is long and harsh, but if you preserve, the rewards are justified. The wicked horrors of thirteen await before you if you so foolishly dare to tread upon, but I must warn you – none have ever survived upon entering, for the Mist Dragon has claimed them as its own.

This was something he definitely wasn't expecting, having declared the scout as "not of an immediate threat" in official terms. Truly, he would never have thought that the stone could have resided here, in a cavern under the forest, but it made sense. Obviously, Articuno was its guardian, and this "Maze" was a trial to test those who would seek to inherit the Stone. Well, he obviously wasn't going to let anything like that phase him. He would just have to complete the challenges before the enemy could...

[TVTMaster]

OOC: Sorry I was gone all day, I audit Math 110 at UNC (think college basketball. Tarheels.), and I had a Mathport session. BTW, I'm ditching the color coding.

Thunder Meadow, Pokemon Square

Pin'orcen climbed on Eretan, with Rowan and Cub following. Eretan placed his foot on the white orb, and a flash of light brought him to outside of the cave. The world appeared in a mess of disorienting colors as Eretan's eyes began to adjust to the normal light from the blinding flash out of darkness. Looking toward the sky, he saw Neo's wings carry him off into the distant sky. No doubt DARK would have a happy reception for him. The Sneasel and his men flew off on various mounts, keeping in tight formation behind Neo. A sight o behold. And if it came down to it, a terrible threat. Hopefully peace would outlive him.

As Eretan gazed at the sight of Neo and his Windblazers, Pin'orcen snapped at him. "HOW DARE YOU! You undermined my authority and allowed the DARK agent to escape clean with the Summer Stone! I was the one authorized for negotiations! I make the demands!" "Pin'orcen: had you made the demands, conflict would have been inevitable. You would not let him leave with the stone. But any other stone would be much more. Summer is arguably the least of the four, being only of value to DARK's Windblazers, for a ceremonial purpose. Letting him keep it was the best solution to the problem." "BUT YOU DIDN'T TAKE MORE! That stone belonged to US! Why didn't you force more from him?!"

"He could have killed us, Pin'orcen. That stone was more than enough to destroy us and leave no remain. Yet he spared us and opened negotiations. If we had overcharged him, surely tensions would escalate." Pin'orcen sighed. "Dang. I always liked that about you, Eretan. But..." Suddenly, Pin'orcen jumped for Eretan's neck. His claw gripped him tightly. "Urk...ahg... OOF!" "That was for undermining me. No offense unpunished, no matter the outcome." Hanging his head, Eretan led the team back to Tanaska.

[Knightblazer]

Heh... prepare for battle? Then all the best to both of us, Finch. ^^

Frosty Forest
Underground – Winter Maze Levels 1st and 2nd

Silent footsteps echoed through the icy halls as Lucied padded into the Winter Maze. At first glance, it seemed as if it was an ordinary place. Shrugging (both mentally and physically), the Mightyena took a step forward – and his so-called opinion of a ‘harmless place’ was soon rectified.

“WHHAHHHHHH!!!” yelled Lucied in surprise as he sidestepped when a barrage of spikes came flying towards him. With boneless grace, the Mightyena nimbly dodged the spikes as they impaled themselves onto the opposite wall. Trying hard not to faint, the wolf glanced down and saw the faded button of a trap panel. It was a frosty blue in color with a diagram of flying spikes on it. Feeling stupid, the Mightyena grabbed a gravelrock he found sometime ago and tossed it onto the panel. On cue, a new barrage of spikes flew out from the end of the corridor he was facing just now, swooshing past him before knocking hard against the first row of spikes and clattering onto the icy floor.

They have traps here?! The Mightyena thought incredulously to himself before giving out a whistle of admiration. Man, that means there must be SOMETHING that’s worth a strealin’, he thought in realization a bit of his old habits flooding back to him. With a devilish grin, Lucied extended his claws to their full length and leaped onto the walls, making sure that dug in well. Once he found himself secured to the walls, the wolf began the arduous task of scaling the icy cold walls, wincing from time to time as the felt numbness coming to his limbs. This trick is hardly handy when it comes to icy walls, the wolf thought with a grimace. Finally, the wolf found another set of falling stairs, and quickly leaped through.

The second floor was a bit different. Strange, chilling winds seemed to appear the room in an attempt to chill Lucied to his very bones. Luckily the Mightyena had worse scrapes than that. Relieved to find no traps whatsoever, Lucied soon found the entrance to the next level and was about to enter when… “Oaf!” the wolf went, falling hard against his back as he received the rough edge of a Bubblebeam.

Wait a minute… Bubblebeam? He slowly realized with a sudden feeling of dread. Gulping once again, Lucied turned his head, only to see a Wartortle starring at him with blank, soulless eyes. Pieces of flesh were dropping from its body, some of the bone clearly visible, and the Mightyena was already trying had not to gag from the detestable stench of rot hanging in the air.

Lucied shivered as he recalled the words on the message. None have ever returned, for the Mist Dragon has claimed them as its own.

Well… if it’s a fight he wants… he trailed off in his thoughts as he assumed a hunting position, then it’s a fight he’ll get!

Knightblazer

[Neo Emolga]

OOC: DeoxysTrainer, you’re perfectly free to RP Nathaniel whenever you want to, but I understand.

But, I’ll RP him for this occasion. It’s the bottom half of this post.

Lesalas, DARK Territory
Festival of Feathers Day 1

It was obvious to see what had become our celebration… had become the warning to the other factions… other than Delta Green. The word had spread around the Delta Green had actually helped me… to some degree, when it came to escaping the cavern under Thunder Meadow. It was… my direct order to make peace with Delta Green, and assist them with finding one of the other stones. However, if Team Aqua and Team Rocket ever had thought of intruding, they would have more valorous opposition then they could imagine. Not to mention… me.

In truth, I had gotten… more than I could ever imagine from the Stone of Summer. My Quarters were… literally almost being transformed into a palace as the festival went on. And I knew I had gotten praise and attention before, but now… I almost found it impossible to break away from it all.

I had been given a snow-white cloak to wear with holes to compensate for the new wings, as well as a wreath of white feathers to wear around my neck. Everywhere I went around town, there were colored lights filling the streets with a colorful glow, and music echoing throughout the alleyways. While night had fallen, it seemed like this place had only become more alive.

My abstinence for eating was challenged. There were more desserts than I could count, and the ones around me seemed a little disappointed that I had so little. I honestly thought I made it clear to them that I wasn’t a big eater.

“Oh, you know they’re going to remember you forever now.” Chaz told me, staying with me the entire time, “Ha ha, as if you weren’t already a legend…”

“You don’t… think it’s too much… do you?” I asked the Furret, still finding this whole… outfit almost hilarious.

“Well, I don’t know.” Chaz replied, looking at me, “The white robe looks funny on you. Like some… cute, adorable angel.”

Well, that was a hell of a weird feeling. There wasn’t much now since… most of the decorations were in the process of being made, but this would be going on for three nights during what was just a normal Solace before all this…

It was incredible, no doubt about that. Still, the more it happened, the less it felt like a dream. Still, I was told the only reason why there hadn’t been more to the decorations was because of such short notice. They were going to spend all night preparing for day two and three. Something in my mind felt… like they were getting a little carried away, but I figured I might as well enjoy it.

Nathaniel’s Viewpoint

I swore, they were worshiping Chief out there like a god of some sort. Heck, considering the power he had now, he practically was one. I couldn’t believe what I saw him do in the sky…

I was spending some time in the local inn, just trying to relax. I wasn’t much for dancing either. I was spending some time sharing the whole story with some of the other guys at the big table. When they heard I was with Chief when he got the stone, they really wanted to know.

“And so, we were a little worried after those Delta Green guys went in after him,” I told them, telling them the entire story, “but after a little while, he comes blasting out of the tunnel with those magnificent wings of his, scaring the hell outta us!”

They loved the sound of it. Meanwhile, I wasn’t even totally sure what happened down there.

“I don't know why, but the Chief does more and more amazing things every time!” I laughed about it, “He must be a miracle!

I then finished off the last of the Oran Cider I had in my glass. Man, it was too easy to get addicted to this stuff. They only opened the bottles in times of celebrations, and I was glad we suddenly got a new holiday to guzzle down this stuff.

I had enough drinking for the night, and I needed some fresh air. They wanted me to stay, but… really, there was nothing else to tell. The legend himself was standing right outside if they really wanted the whole story to it.

I made my way through the doors, and then stepped outside and crossed the street. Suddenly, for a short moment, I heard a voice.

“Umm… excuse me, sir, could you help us?” They asked.

I turned around and saw a few more Pokémon, looking right at me. The one in front was another Pikachu, and it reminded me of Neo for a moment. The other two were a Sandshrew and a Plusle.

“Uh, we were wondering if you could instruct us on what to do.” The Pikachu asked me, “ You see, we’re apparently new inductees to D.A.R.K., but the letter didn’t exactly tell us where to go, besides Lesalas. Could you direct us in the right direction?”

I took the letter and looked it over. Yeah, this was definitely familiar.

“Hmm, kind of unusual you got this only just now.” I replied, talking to talk over the music, “Okay, I’ll give you the whole rundown of how this works. We’ll take care of this tomorrow since… almost everyone is out partying tonight for Neo.”

I looked over the paper again, and then looked back at the Pikachu.

“Landon, huh?” I asked him, “Okay, here’s the deal. In DARK, you have several forces that make up the caste of DARK defenses. Neo and I are Windblazers, DARK’s aerial attack force. Training is hard, you would be training under Neo or another Windblazer instructor. If flying around isn’t your thing or you don’t think you’ll like the training, then you have DARK Pathfinders, DARK’s ground forces. While Lesalas is mostly a Windblazer training area, Pathfinders are usually held in Seratine for defenses. Or, you have the Nightwalkers, DARK’s Special Forces and covert operations, usually used to infiltrate enemy territory and perform stealth. They usually train in South Bend. And lastly, there’s an undersea force called the DARK Tidebreakers, but none of you are water Pokémon. Hope you weren’t of thinking of going into them, because… you’re out of luck.”

It was a lot for them to absorb, and I knew training for them wouldn’t begin until after the Festival of Feathers was over.

“So, all you need to do is apply.” I told them, pointing to the hall where they did it, “All you need to do is apply for either the Windblazers, the Pathfinders, or Nightwalkers. But trust me, training in all three of them is rigorous. Don’t think the grass may be greener in one of the other areas, because that’s not the case.”

Whew, that was a mouthful. Good to know we were getting more recruits though…

[Finch]

Frosty Forest
Underground ~ Winter Maze

In this room, Finch could see that the trials had already begun for whomever was up ahead. The wall was peppered with spikes that had been fired from a trap, and it wasn't long until the Hitmonlee and the Pidgeot both realised almost simultaneously what had caused it. The room was booby-trapped. The tiles up ahead were odd, showing a slight irregularity like they would depress if stepped on. If he wanted to get through here, he would have to make sure he never touched the ground.

"Can you fly us over?" he asked Reg.

"I doubt it," came the reply. "This corridor's too narrow. Even if I could glide the full length of this corridor, I couldn't do it with you."

Finch was at a loss. "You couldn't even go alone?"

"Well," the Pidgeot said thoughtfully, "I guess I could."

"Go, then, and I'll meet you over there."

Not wanting to argue with his Commander, Reg did exactly as he was told without questioning, albeit after a slight pause to gauge how exactly he would be able to navigate through this tight hallway. It was dangerously long, and slightly winding, but Reg did manage to glide the full length of the room without too much difficulty. This just left Finch, but he'd already begun to put his plan into action. Taking a three-step run-up, he launched himself with his powerful legs towards the right-hand wall. From there, he kicked back and away from the wall to launch himself through the corridor, zig-zagging through with mind-blowing agility and dexterity. When he finally reached the other end, he thought it was over, his blade resonating with a strange chiming sound and glowing brightly. However, a glance at the strangely transfixed Reg told him they weren't quite there yet.

A few yards in front of him, there stood a wolf-like figure. A Mightyena, and the very same one that he had been hunting for days. However, the real threat was opposite this Pokemon, a disgusting and intimidating undead Wartortle. He motioned to the bird and dashed forwards, standing alongside his previous enemy to take on this new one.

"Questions come later," he said, "but for now, we're with you."

[Knightblazer]

EDIT: Sorry, got this posted before I saw yours....

Frosty Forest
Underground – Winter Maze Level 2nd

"Alright then..." muttered Lucied. "Then again, what do you mean that you're with me?"

Before the Pokemon beside him could answer, the Wartortle opened his mouth to let loose a stream of bubblebeam. Lucied cursed under his breath as he quickly dodged yet another stream of Bubblebeam attacks from the undead Wartortle before him. Man, he’s tough! The Mightyena thought as he looked at the soulless tortoise. With a moan, the undead Pokemon turned to look at him for a few moments before releasing a Hydro Pump.

The raven wolf cursed yet again as he leaped into the air to evade and let out a Shadow Ball, the projectile hitting the creature square in the chest, but soon got up again and acted as if nothing had happened, opening his mouth, the Wartortle released yet another Hydro Pump attack, but Lucied managed to dodge it with relative ease due to the time gap between the two attacks.

He may be strong in aspects of physical, but mentally he’s retarded, the Mightyena slowly realized as their battle progressed, Good… I could use this to my advantage. With that, Lucied performed a graceful leap into the air as the Wartortle unleashed another stream of Bubblebeam. Using Protect, the bubbles were not damaging Lucied as the Mightyena’s tail began to glow a pearly white before he spun… and knocked off the turtle’s head off with his Iron Tail move.

Landing with a grunt, the wolf turned before his garnet eyes widened to see the headless corpse of the turtle. Holding his breath, the wolf looked at the stump that was his neck and gasped in surprise. There was no crimson liquid flowing out at all, rather it, seemed as if the body was filled with everything but blood. Shakily, the wolf headed into the stairs, surprised to see yet another scribbled message on the walls.

To Whom It May Concern:

If you’re reading this, then I must suppose you have defeated the strange Wartortle that creeps here. He is actually one of the victims of the Mist Dragon, his blood, body and soul all taken by that monster. All he is left is nothing but a void husk of a puppet with ghostly strings. You must have noticed when you removed his head, for that is the one of the two only ways to kill these soulless toys, or ghouls, as I call them. Anything except a shot to the heart or head will not deter them, so remember that as you travel down these thirteen horrors.

Lucied gulped once again as he read the message, memorizing it now that he knew the true value of these messages. This ‘Mist Dragon’ the message was referring to was definitely not very popular among horror fables. But yet, the Mightyena found that name oddly familiar. Where had he heard it before…?

Better get outta here first, though, he thought to himself. Before going down, however, he let loose a Shadow Ball, upon the entrance, and as the blocks of ice fell and shut the other out from him, all Lucied said was, "Ta-ta!" Before the last of the ice fell and shut the other out.

"Heh... it'll be better that I'm alone... too many people... too troublesome," he muttered to himself before going down the stairs into the third level of the Winter Maze.

Knightblazer

[Finch]

Frosty Forest
Winter Maze

Alright then... Then again, what do you mean that you're with me?"

Finch and Reg merely watched as the Pokemon decaptiated their common foe with practically no effort whatsover. They could both tell that this Mightyena was tough and they were glad they hadn't chosen to show hostility, at least not just yet. No sooner had the wolf-like Pokemon landed from its attack, it had already dashed off out of the room and down the stairs to the Maze's next level, stopping only momentarily to read another message on the wall. Following closely behind, Finch read it too.

To Whom It May Concern:

If you’re reading this, then I must suppose you have defeated the strange Wartortle that creeps here. He is actually one of the victims of the Mist Dragon, his blood, body and soul all taken by that monster. All he is left is nothing but a void husk of a puppet with ghostly strings. You must have noticed when you removed his head, for that is the one of the two only ways to kill these soulless toys, or ghouls, as I call them. Anything except a shot to the heart or head will not deter them, so remember that as you travel down these thirteen horrors.

Yet another indication that they were being led to the Stone. Only a relic of such power and prestige would be guarded by traps, dragons and the undead. That was only the start of it, too. There would surely be more to come, and they feared it was likely to become much worse. Catching up to the Mightyena as they neared the end of the staircase, Finch called out.

"What are you doing here? You know you're in Aq-"

He stopped himself, not wanting to give away his true identity.

"I was lead here by Articuno, I think it would do us all good to work together here. I'm Reg, and this is Finch," he finished.

[SpazzedOutRayquaza]

I was sweating like crazy. They were all around me. Slow, sure. But powerful? Yes indeed. I used Crunch and bit hard on the nearest one. It got confused and started attacking its kin. This confused me, but I stayed at the task at hand, and used Roar to scare them off. They all fled, but I didn't have the satisfaction of beating them. Oh, well. Then, I turned around and saw the confused Dusclops standing there. "Uhh... um... hello?"

"Hello!" I was surprised to hear it knew proper language even when it was confused, on top of the fact that it was a Dusclops! "I would like to guide you out of here. I am known as 'The Betrayer' to my kin, and am hated by everyone. So, I help lost travelers get out of here. Would you like my assistance?" I nodded, but shivered on the inside. The Betrayer's story was frighteningly close to mine.

"Okay. You can help me out of here, but I want to go north." I was both frightened and relieved that this Dusclops would help me out of here, and I felt a bit of a kinship with it, and wanted to try to know it. It began to lead me forward.

Suddenly, it lashed out at my moaning. "Kill..." I was astounded.

"What?! I thought you were getting me out of here!" I was angry and taken by surprise. Embarrased, I used Ice Beam followed by a Crunch on it, and it fell down, fainted. I guess it was just confused, after all... Despite my problems, I kept my spirits high, and headd the way the Dusclops had shown me. I was on my own.

After about a week of continuous camping and hiking through the Great Canyon, I finally made it out and saw a field... there was a cave there. A sign read: Oddity Cave: BEWARE. I decidec to bewra, and moved on, trying to get even closer to one of the towns my team had control of, Pokemon Square. I kept on hinking, hoping that the settlement would appear on the horizon.

[Knightblazer]

OOC: Yup I did, and now you're shut out. XP

Frosty Forest
Underground – Winter Maze Levels 3rd to 5th

The third floor of the Winter Maze was, luckily, relatively easy compared to the first and second ones. Lucied speculated that the first two floors –especially the Wartortle, he remembered with a shudder- were for the sole purpose of driving any unwanted visitors out. Now that he had gotten past both levels, the Mightyena could let out a sigh of immense relief upon discovering that the third level was nothing more than a few wild Zubat (which were quickly taken out with a few Crunches and Shadow Ball attacks) a single sludge trap and a few frozen gummies, which the wolf quickly ate. And in all honesty, frozen gummies were quite good despite everything.

Upon arriving at the fourth level without any note upstairs from the strange messenger, Lucied met the misfortune of bumping into a Monster House of Zubat and Snorunt. It took quite a bit of effort as Lucied was getting a bit tired due to his fight with the undead Wartortle and wandering before meeting the Maze. Luckily, the Mightyena found an Oran Berry, along with a Max Elixir. Quickly gulping down both products, Lucied heaved another sigh of relief. Any longer and he would have fainted from exhaustion. After a bit of rest, the lone mercenary quickly found the way to the fifth level after engaging in a few wild Zubat and Snorunt, disappointed that he couldn’t see another valuable message from the scribbler.

Everything changed at the fifth floor.

Lucied stumbled onto the fifth level of the Winter Maze, garnet eyes quickly scanning the area for any undead Pokemon. Finding none, the wolf looked and frowned in realization that the fifth floor was only a single hall, a suit of armor standing onto the right of the entrance of the sixth floor. It all seems too easy… the Mightyena thought to himself as he padded towards the entrance. However, before he could enter…

Trouble! His instincts warned him. Swiftly, Lucied rolled to his right, an ancient medieval sword impaled into the ground beside him. The Mightyena shivered at the thought of that blade could have done to him, if it wasn’t for his senses. How did this sword appear out from nowhere? He questioned himself, another trap, perhaps?

“You’re pretty fast for a Mightyena,” came a cold, hollow voice.

“Why thank you…” the wolf replied with a devious grin before kicking the sword away and leaping towards the other end of the corridor. Looking around, Lucied realized that there was no one here. Then who was doing the talking…?

“In front of you.” The voice came again.

Lucied looked around, only to gasp when he realized who was standing some distance in front of him and doing the talking.

It was from the armor itself!

Knightblazer

[Finch]

OOC: wtf... isn't completely ignoring what I do god-modding? and on top of that you haven't shut me out at all...

oh, and you rested, meaning I'd have caught up to you...

[Knightblazer]

OOC: Previous post (as in last page, before your character entered the staircase), Finch; Lucied destoyed the stairs leading to the third floor. And he did acknowledge Finch, pal - its at the beginning.

In Previous previous post

Better get outta here first, though, he thought to himself. Before going down, however, he let loose a Shadow Ball, upon the entrance, and as the blocks of ice fell and shut the other out from him, all Lucied said was, "Ta-ta!" Before the last of the ice fell and shut the other out.

"Heh... it'll be better that I'm alone... too many people... too troublesome," he muttered to himself before going down the stairs into the third level of the Winter Maze.

Frosty Forest
Underground – Winter Maze Level 5th

Lucied stumbled back, shocked by the sudden turn of events. “What in the seven hells ARE you?!” he questioned.

The cold chuckle emanated from the clunky armor as he drew out his sword from the ice. “I have no name, but within this walls I am known as 66.”

“Sixty-six?” the Mightyena echoed with a devious smirk, and then stretched into a Cheshire grin all of a sudden. “Heh, that quite a mysterious name all of a sudden, but no matter,” he stated, “my name’s quite a bit of an enigma as well.”

If the armor were alive, he would have raised an eyebrow at Lucied’s statement. “Oh?” he asked, “And why would that be, Mightyena?”

The grin was still onto Lucied’s face as he replied, “Let’s just say not many suits of armor get to have a soul attached to them.”

“Ho?” went the armor, his tone clearly in both surprise and amusement. “You know about the forbidden techniques of ancient?”

Lucied shrugged, both mentally and physically. “Who knows? And I can’t really find a good reason to tell you how I do know, actually,” he replied as his grin slowly vanished, “I presume you’re guarding this place, then.” The Mightyena stated.

66 nodded. “Correct. 66 is actually my prisoner number from the Mist Dragon. In other words, I am the sixty-sixth being claimed by It.” he replied, the two golden orbs in his eye sockets now taking a brighter glow. Lucied narrowed his eyes towards the armor.

He must have a blood seal somewhere… the wolf thought to himself as he carefully scanned the talking suit of armor, my bets are in that head. He realized with a sudden dread. This was hardly going to be easy. Troublesome wouldn’t even cut it. As the Mightyena looked at 66, it began to laugh.

“What’s so funny?” demanded the raven beast.

“I find it rather amusing…” trailed off 66, “that such a shrimp (OOC: It IS true; Lucied is a tad smaller than most Mightyena) like you could actually manage to get here!”

A twisted grin formed upon Lucied’s face once again as he crouched down. “Well, I’m sorry…” he started once more, “but not when I defeat you!” With that, the Mightyena let out an animalistic roar as he leaped towards the armor. It didn’t move at all, but Lucied head two word coming from him. “Too easy.” With a flash, 66 disappeared, leaving a most confused wolf as he landed onto the ground.

“What in the-” he started to swear, but was cut off when there was a sudden impact upon his back. The force sent the Mightyena flying and he crashed into one of the icy walls. Shaken a little from the impact, Lucied leaped yet again and sent out a barrage of Shadow Ball attacks. A few managed to get the talking suit of armor despite everything, but 66 seemed unfazed by it. If anything, he was even more amused by Lucied’s futile efforts.

“Give it up, brat,” he said coldly, “I’m practically invulnerable to your attacks.”

“Who said so?” replied the Mightyena with a grin. Before 66 could ask what he meant by that, Lucied leaped out and charged at him. The armor reacted quickly, slashing his sword and delivering a wound to the Mightyena’s right forearm. The wolf gritted his teeth together, momentarily fazed by the pain, and 66 took his chance. Swing a leg up, the metal collided hard against his stomach and sent Lucied flying into another frozen wall. The Mightyena coughed as he stumbled out from the debris, a small mouthful of blood violently expelling from his now raw throat.

“I told you, it is useless!” he said. But all he got in response was another twisted smirk, crimson eyes suddenly beginning to glow. Before another second was wasted, Lucied charged towards 66, tongue lolling out and fangs glistening. 66 wanted to move, but found it paralyzed. He latched onto the armor, and then removed the head from the rest of the body and leaped back, a grin upon his face as he picked up the head in front of him. (OOC: Just FYI, Lucied used Scary Face)

“Heh, looks like I win,” Lucied announced with a small smirk. But all the head did was to laugh. “Now what are YOU laughin’ at?” he asked, “Oy, Oy… don’t try to act tough, loser,” he said, “Do you want me to destroy your blood seal?” he added with a grin. But then the head laughed again and said, “I haven’t lost yet.”

Suddenly a stab of pain shot through Lucied. He let go of the head he was holding, stumbling forwards due to the throbbing pain. “What in the-” the wolf started to swear again, but then gasped in shock when he saw the rest of the armor picking up the head and asking, “Are you fine, Brother?”

“It… can’t be…” wheezed the wolf. “There’s a blood seal… on the body too?!”

Knightblazer

[STORMTROOPER X]

Location: Woods surrounding the Unknown Relic

It was quiet. Not a sound could be heard for miles as a lone figure was sitting on an old tree stump in the luscious green forest. As still as a statue the figure stayed motionless with eye lids fully shut and muscles relaxed as could be as if he hadn’t a care in the world. The silence was destined to be disturbed though as a goliath like kingler entered the isolated patch of land to bring an urgent matter to the lone figure’s attention.

“Team Rocket, Aqua, DARK and even Delta Green have all already dispatched units to scope for the four stones while you’re just sitting here taking a stupid nap, and leaving our squad behind in the dust! In case you haven’t forgotten we are still under Delta Green’s orders to retrieve the stones! Besides I also know you want them for your own personal gain more than anything else life has to offer so why aren’t we moving out already?!?” the kingler demanded.

Up close the figure could now be identified as a machop. He was carrying a wooden sword that was swung around his back snug tightly in its wooden sheath while also wearing a dark black belt capable of storing multiple utensils for various situations and emergencies. While he was rather enjoying the peacefulness of the luscious paradise he knew the kingler was right.

“Humph. Let them have their little head start. Their fates will all be the same. Those stones rightfully belong to me and anyone who gets in my way will perish before me! The best of the best are said to be searching for these stones and no one is greater than me when it comes down to combat expertise! I will surpass all those in the present, past and future!!” cried the machop.

He rose from his wooden throne with a grand look of determination twinkling within his eyes.

“Zig!” cried the machop.

From the depths of the forest arose a furry creature with long, beautiful, brown and white fur. He was quick on his feet like the ancient Greek god Hermes as he summoned words to speak on his own behalf.

“Zig reporting for duty sir!” said the zigzagoon with a light mocking tone.

“Cut the Trash Zig! We’re moving out so let’s go!” dictated the machop

“Geeez where’s your sense of humor....” Zig grumbled

Little did the trio know was that they had only begun to embark on a journey containing unrivaled perils than any other journeys that ever came before.

As the squad started to leave the isolated area the machop bellowed with a determined voice “At last the time is right! Beware Aqua, Rocket and DARK! Those stones will never even feel the bleeding sweat from your sweaty palms as I rise to glory as the strongest fighter who ever lived! Memorize the name X because you should know the name of the man who completely destroyed you!!!!”

[Knightblazer]

Frosty Forest
Underground – Winter Maze Level 5th

The two voices laughed from the armor as the body attached itself back upon the head.

“I forgot to mention…” stated 66, “that the prisoner 66 were actually two. 66 was known as the killer Slicer a decade or so back. And the Slicer… was actually two brothers.”

Lucied got up shakily on his feet. “So the head and body are separate, eh?” he muttered, and then gave a small smirk. “Heh, looks like foul play to me…”

The Slicer shrugged, “In a battle, anything could happen,” he said as a response.

Another grin. “Heh… anything… you say?” he asked, eyes hidden by the locks of fur falling from his sides. The armor noticed that the air seemed quite chiller than usual, but the shrugged it off; after all, nothing could affect him. “Yes, anything,” he replied.

Silence hung in the icy air for a moment before Lucied spoke again. “Than that means…” he started trailing off as a strange aura began to surround him. “…I get to use this.” He finished, the tone of his voice now sinisterly low. The aura surrounded the wolf in wisps of black and red, startling the armor. With an unearthly roar, the wolf leaped into the air and spun until he became a blur of black and gray. Without so much as a warning, the helix slammed square onto the armor, the force shredding the armor into pieces. The head flew out from the rest, relatively unharmed. But the same could not be said for the other. The torso was separated from the legs, landing hard against the icy floor with a loud clang. Just as it suddenly appeared, the aura dispersed and Lucied fell back to the floor, panting.

With a small groan, the wolf got up again, traces of blood matting his fur. “Sorry,” he muttered with a wince, “but I can’t die yet…” Suddenly, the torso began moving, startling the Mightyena.

“Damnit!” swore the torso aloud above Lucied’s surprised yell, “How dare you, brat!”

“Weird…” muttered the wolf weakly above the yells of “I’m not finished!” or ‘I’m not through with you, brat!” But then the torso gave up, both arms dropping towards the ground in a sign of defeat. “Damnit… Brother…” muttered the upper portion of the armor. Despite everything, Lucied sweatdropped.

“Yes…” started the head, “it may be a miserable thing, but we still lost, little brother.”

Lucied looked at the legs, nudging it nervously with one of his hind paws. “You’re not gonna tell me you guys were three brothers, right?”

“No, we won’t,” both voices replied as one.

“Well done, kid,” said the elder of the two. “You certainly did win this time… but what was that aura…?” he asked, as Lucied grabbed a frozen Oran Berry he saw near by and began to bite hard on it. Immediately the Mightyena could begin his wounds regenerating, although quite slowly. Still it was better than nothing.

Lucied shrugged as he gulped down the rest of the frozen berry. “Dunno,” he replied simply, causing both to sweatdrop. “I’ve never know what it was, except that it sorta boost my powers…”

“Really?”

A small grin formed upon the Mightyena’s face as he replied. “Yeah.”

“I may have a clue.”

Lucied immediately snapped up. “What?”

“That aura… it reminds me of the Mist Dragon.”

A slender eyebrow was raised. “It does?” he asked.

“Yes, but that is all I can tell you.”

The wolf grinned as he got up. “Well, then,” he said, “guess I’ll have to see it for myself!” With that, the wolf sped down the stairs into the Seventh Level. As he did, the armor slowly reconstructed itself together again, as if by magic.

“He has potential,” was all that the armor said as he took his position once more beside the stairs.

Knightblazer

[Neo Emolga]

Ha ha, well… tough break, X, because this Pikachu already got one. ;)

Lesalas, DARK Territory
Festival of Feathers Day 1

It had gotten late and I was exhausted. I couldn’t believe how… outright eventful this entire day had been. Meanwhile, they were still working on… beautifying my living quarters, even though I was perfectly content with the way they were now. Still, they insisted and I figured I might as well go with it.

Even after all that crazy dancing with female Pokémon I didn’t even know, I was tired. Even while I headed off to sleep, they continued going all night long. Now that… I couldn’t do. I would be wrecked in the morning, even if I didn’t have to worry about training at the moment.

Unrelated news came in, and Seratine had finished the Stonewall, surrounding the center town with a defense well, while adding wooden spears to provide protection. Meanwhile, fashioning sharpened stones to the ends was reinforcing them. It was definitely not the kind of thing anyone wanted to slide right into.

Meanwhile, Seratine and South Bend were… enjoying the newly created festival as well, even if they were unable to see me at the moment. But… I was glad they were enjoying themselves. I knew the training and hard work they had undergone was taxing on them, but yes, this time to relax and enjoy festivities would give them the reassurance and morale they needed to really fight their hardest…

But… what a day. I had laid down on my very soft bed, and wandered off to sleep…

[STORMTROOPER X]

OCC:Ha ha, well… tough break, X, because this Pikachu already got one. ;)

Well then I'll just have to kill you for it. ;)

*Edit* How about a Four Stones Chat thread Neo? Also when do you plan on officially grading our stories?

[Knightblazer]

Frosty Forest
Underground – Winter Maze Level 6th

Things hardly went easier following that.

Lucied swore aloud as he dodged yet another spike trap. These traps were getting a bit too annoying for him now, but the wolf had no choice after all. With another colorful curse, the Mightyena sidestepped another barrage of spikes, only to leap away when a hole opened upon the floor. A lump formed upon Lucied’s throat as he looked at the bones piling within the booby trap. This is hardly fun at all… the wolf thought gloomily to himself as he padded cautiously upon the corridor. Maybe I should have let that guy… nah, he thought, remembering the aura he possessed. It’s too dangerous.

“But then who is truly holding the leash?” the wolf said aloud within the silent, freezing confines of the maze, “who’s looking on and holding the leash upon this twisted castle?”

As expected, there was no answer. Lucied sighed deeply as he looked turned left towards another corridor, surprised to see another scribble there, of all places. However, it seemed to be different compared to the previous two he read.

13th Day of the Waning Moon

As expected, the Winter Maze is indeed built to keep out any seekers for the treasure. Weeks have passed since I have set foot upon this place, but yet the reward drives me on. The scared stone of Winter – the last of the four, for the ones of Summer, Autumn and Spring has been claimed by the enemy. The Winter Stone is our only hope if we are to ever survive their attack. I can feel my strength slowly waning… the days and times spent to long within these freezing confines. But I must persevere, for the sake of the world.

The Mightyena blinked as he read the entry. Weird, he thought, it seems to be a log of sorts… he mused to himself. He then noticed the way the date was actually written. 13th Day Of The Waning Moon? He questioned mentally, either that guy’s really old or this thing is written at least five decades ago… the date system was changed then… the wolf recalled, but then shrugged. Meh, might as well go with it. With that, the wolf soon quickly found the entrance to the Seventh floor and entered it.

Knightblazer

[Shen]

Lesalas, Festival Day 1

The Sneasel took the letter and looked over it. “Hmm, kind of unusual you got this only just now.” He replied, trying to talk over the music, “Okay, I’ll give you the whole rundown of how this works. We’ll take care of this tomorrow since… almost everyone is out partying tonight for Neo.”

He snatched another look at the paper in his hands before continuing. “Landon, huh? Okay, here’s the deal. In DARK, you have several forces that make up the caste of DARK defenses. Neo and I are Windblazers, DARK’s aerial attack force. Training is hard, you would be training under Neo or another Windblazer instructor. If flying around isn’t your thing or you don’t think you’ll like the training, then you have DARK Pathfinders, DARK’s ground forces. While Lesalas is mostly a Windblazer training area, Pathfinders are usually held in Seratine for defenses. Or, you have the Nightwalkers, DARK’s Special Forces and covert operations, usually used to infiltrate enemy territory and perform stealth. They usually train in South Bend. And lastly, there’s an undersea force called the DARK Tidebreakers, but none of you are water Pokémon. Hope you weren’t of thinking of going into them, because… you’re out of luck.”

"Hadn't even crossed my mind." Yeah, seeing as how I didn't even know of their existence. I thought about this a little, soaking in all this info. Could be useful.

“So, all you need to do is apply.” He said, pointing to a building where I asumed they did it, “All you need to do is apply for either the Windblazers, the Pathfinders, or Nightwalkers. But trust me, training in all three of them is rigorous. Don’t think the grass may be greener in one of the other areas, because that’s not the case.”

"I thought it'd be tough either way. The Windblazers sound intriguing. We were discussing about joining the airborne legion a few days ago, so we'll give it a try." I told him. Zhunjai and Cameron nodded in confirmation on either side of me.

The Sneasel laughed. "Well, sounds like we might be joining each other on the battlefield one day. It's always good to know we're getting new recruits." He turned around. "Continue on with the festivities, and rest well. You'll need it if you're really determined to advance." He waved goodbye over his shoulder, and disappeared in a mass of pokemon swarming by.

"Well, that was infomative." Zhunjai said positively, "Guess your plan worked."

"Did you have any doubt?"

"Maybe a little..."

We joked around as we made our way through the city, taking in and memorizing all the landmarks for future reference. Along our travels, we noticed that a long column of pokemon bearing gifts, food, and other things were lined up, leading to a certain, now regal-looking building. I inquired as to who was in there.

"You must be a newbie." replied the skarmory I had asked, "That's where the Chief, Nightwing, lives. Now, since you're new members, I guess I oughta tell you this. When adressing the chief, we usually say 'Hän joka pitäisi olla siunattu avulla sivukulissit.' This is a sign of respect we all show him, for as long as I can remember."

Zhunjai thanked him as we went along. I, however, was lost in my thoughts.

Zhunjai eventually noticed. "You okay Landon?"

"Hmm?" I looked up at her. "Oh, uh...yeah. I was just thinking about that statement."

"What about it?"

"Well...my mother used to say it a lot, especially after I completed an especially dificult task for her. It means 'He who should be blessed with wings.' I never really took mom too seriouly when she said that. I thought she just meant that i deserved to fly with pokemon like Zapdos, or something. I was really important to her..." Funny, I never talked so much about my family since...well, since it happened...

"I see..." Zhunjai left the subject closed.

"Maybe we should get some shuteye. We'll need it soon enough." Cameron suggested. Zhunjai and I agreed, and we left to the inn we stayed at.

It was such an eventful day, that we all fell asleep immediately. I slept peacefully, my dreams filled with happy memories of my parents and Trais. I wasn't sure, but I think I cried for them...

Lesalas, Festival Day 2

We woke early the next day and ate a quick breakfast. Wondering what would be added to the festivities that day, we set off for the hall where the Sneasel told us was where we sign up.

We met several pokemon that day who stopped to just look me over. Apparently, a guy with a cross-shaped scar over his useless left eye atracted a little attention...

We got to the building, where a few more recruitswere signing up. We made our way to the counter, which was being watched over by a Clefairy.

"Yes, are you here to apply?" She asked. We nodded. "DARK membership proof, please." She held out a small pink hand.

Looking to Zhunjai and Cameron, I shrugged and handed her the letter. She read it over quickly, her eyes a blur as she focused on each sentence. inally satisfied, she handed the letter back. "What are you interested in?"

Zhunjai was the first to speak. "I'd like to apply for the Windblazers, please."

"Same here." Cameron and I said simultaneously.

She gave us three pieces of paper. "Fill these out, and return them to me then." She smiled and continued...whatever it was she was doing in the first place.

We found a comfortable spot in the corner and filled out the application forms. There was little we really needed to fill out, and one by one, we finished. We were directed to the counter where we hand in the applications.

A Furret was behind this one. He didn't even look up until we put our application forms on the counter. "Thank you. Due to the Festivities, we probably won't be able to post you for a couple of days."

"No prob, we can wait." I said confidently.

The Furret looked up. "We thank you for your patie-" she stopped short as she looked upon me. "If you don't mind me asking, how long has it been since you sustained that scar?"

"What, this?" I held a hand up to my blind eye. "I've had it for a couple of months now, since I was a Pichu. I...don't exactly like the details, though..." With this, I lowered my hand and turned around. "Other than that, no, I don't mind you asking..."

As we headed out, I thought I heard the Furret say, "And I thought the Chief was the only tough-looking Pikachu..."

"Are you bothered by all the attention you get for your eye?" Cameron asked.

"Nah, it doesn't bother me. I just go with it, or ignore it, if it's insulting." I told him. "I'm fine with the attention, but I guess I could do without a lot of pokemon gawking at my head."

"So, what do you want to do today, now that we've got a free schedule?" Zhunjai asked.

"You guys can go ahead and do whatever you want. I think I want to get a chance to meet Neo, if possible." With that, we went our separate ways, and I headed towards the back of the line of pokemon, which was even longer now.

[Knightblazer]

Frosty Forest
Underground – Winter Maze Level 7th

Wonder what’s the chief doing now… the wolf thought as he padded along the corridors of the seventh floor. “Ah, why did he sent me to do this mission in the first place?” the Mightyena muttered in annoyance, “he should let the others do it, I’m completely useless.” But then things have completely evolved to a point where we can no longer fight a flat-out, honorable and square war, the wolf mused, its quite sad actually – I’m sure anyone would agree.

With yet another sigh, Lucied let out another round of Shadow Balls upon the wild, savage Pokemon, swearing once again as he saw a trio of undead Pokemon heading towards him. Man, these Ghouls are getting pretty common, he thought as he leaped, decapitating them with an Iron Tail attack. Immediately, the headless corpses fell onto the floor like the dead they were. The wolf panted hard as he landed back onto the ground. I can’t retaliate forever… he thought; I’ll be exhausted by then!

Just then, the wolf heard the undistinguishable moans of the ghouls as a group stumbled towards him. Muttering a few colorful curses under his breath, Lucied made a quick turn at left at the next exit he saw – only to step on a boulder trap. An ominous rumble echoed through the room, and then a loud crash as a huge boulder appeared in at the end of the corridor he was in and began rolling towards the Mightyena in question.

“Oh, f-” Lucied started to swear, but was cut short when he saw the ghouls nearing the turn he was at. Looking at the stumbling ghouls and rolling boulder, the wolf grinned. He had a plan. Grabbing a gravelrock, the Mightyena threw it at one of the ghouls, immediately gaining its attention. “Oy!” he shouted, “In here, you dunderheads!” he taunted, and it went pretty well. With angry moans (or at least what it seemed to Lucied), the Ghouls advanced upon the Mightyena, ready for the kill. However, at the last moment, the wolf made a startling leap onto the ceiling, his claws embedding themselves hard onto the snow. The boulder rolled below him… and over the ghouls, effectively squishing them. The wolf tried not to gag at the sudden stench assault of rot entering his nose. With a sigh of relief, Lucied dropped back onto the ground.

“Don’t mess with Lucied,” he spoke quietly before turning to leave the corridor. After that, it wasn’t long before he found the stairs, along with another scribbled message.

To Whom It May Concern:

I must congratulate you thus far. Being able to past the first seven horrors of this place is by any means, not a easy task. However, I must warn you if you so which to continue. The next half of this maze is hardly what you may think it would be trials, dangers and questions abound there, one could quite easily lose upon sanity in there. If you wish to proceed, then all I say is good luck, and rely on your senses of five.

Heh, the wolf thought, sorry to tell you, but I think I have been insane for quite sometime already… With that thought in his mind, the wolf lightly treaded down the way towards the eight horror of the Winter Maze.

Knightblazer

[Neo Emolga]

Actually Stormtrooper X, we have a Four Stones discussion thread right here. (http://www.pokemonelite2000.com/forum/showthread.php?t=25037)

Judging… I’m not sure, maybe when the whole Battleship game gets going. I still have to set that up though…

And DT, nice job RPing Nathaniel. :D

Lesalas, DARK Territory
Festival of Feathers Day 2

I woke up, and was pretty happy to see that yes, this really wasn’t a dream after all. Meanwhile, celebrations outside were still carrying on. I could tell Chaz was right though. Ever after I had long passed from this world, they would still be remembering this moment.

In the meantime, I wasn’t worried about Delta Green, or even if there was a stone in DARK territory. Truthfully, I was satisfied with the Stone of Summer already. I doubted if my body could even contain the sheer amount of power from yet another stone. But… it sure was nice having this kind of blessing, and to be sacred.

Many of them never even got to sleep last night still decorating the entire city. And with the tremendous effort from so many people, my… palace was… finally complete. Man, that was certainly record time. I wondered how many Pokémon were working on it, but I imagined it must have been quite a lot…

Still though, the more they celebrated, the more of a warning it would be to enemy nations. I didn’t like what Team Aqua was up to. Delta Green, I could feel comfortable with. As long as we helped them and they helped us, we could even be allies. By chance… maybe we could even trade with each other if we kept this mutual relationship together. But Team Aqua… I doubted it. They were… fanatical, almost seemingly driven by insanity and lust. And there were rumors going around that they kill even their own members. I totally didn’t want to have anything to do with that.

I then arrived at the new wooden doors to my palace… and knew they were all just waiting outside for me to come out. I just had to tell myself again that feeding egos wasn’t a good idea, and that I shouldn’t be letting this all get to my head or it was really going to turn me into a loony. So, with one quick push, I opened the doors, stepped out, and there was cheering all over again. I then realized I left the wreath of feathers back inside. That sure didn’t last long as I was greeted by yet another group of Pokémon, one of them being a female Meowth that wrapped… an even bigger and more color wreath around my neck than the last one…

“Okay… okay…” I laughed, finding this kind of ridiculous, “Who was the one who came up with this whole wreath of feathers thing in the first place?”

They found it funny, and then the Meowth looked at me.

“Oh hey, my name’s Jean.” She told me, giving me a quick smile, “As for the wreath, I don’t know, I didn’t make it. They love it though. And you should see those kids down by the courtyard, they’re making a bundle off of selling fake pairs of wings for others to wear. They’re itchy as hell though…”

“Yeah, I could imagine…” I replied with a little roll of my eyes, “You guys are a little crazy with all this. Just don’t go plucking any poor Pidgeots or Swellows for feathers now.”

But… it was enjoyable, even if it did feel funny with a few laughs here and there. They were really enjoying themselves, where before this Solace was simply just resting, peaceful relaxation, and a period of not really doing anything constructive. This… as odd as it seemed in places, did make better use of the time off.

And I spent the whole morning as a magnet for attention. Just to ease the time away, I broke out dancing in the courtyard with a female Totodile, a Jigglypuff, and a Flaaffy, while loud, festive music was playing, and the three of them enjoyed the heck out of it. And then, I don’t know who started this crazy idea, but someone came up with the ridiculous thought that me dancing with the three of them would give them a tremendous amount of fortune and good luck in the years ahead. Look, I knew the Stone of Summer was capable of granting incredible powers. Turning the user into a virtual four-leaf clover that spreads luck around wasn’t one of them. However, they liked the idea of it, as… inaccurate as it was…

I sat down on a wooden bench for a moment, and just said I wanted some Oran Cider. I specifically said some, I didn’t ask for the nearly one gallon container they handed me. It was strange, under normal circumstances, I didn’t find Oran Cider so… intimidating…

“Oh come on…” I told the server as I just looked at this thing, “You know I can’t drink all this. I drink even just half of this and I’d have to run three miles before I can even go flying again…”

Apparently, they found that really funny. All of this was crazy, but at least they were having a great time with it all…

[Shen]

Lesalas, Festival Day 2

Wow...this line is long. It's been two hours since I parted with Zhunjai and Cameron, and the line's barely moved. So many people want to give Neo gifts, food, and decorations thatI thought I was going to be here forever. However, I entertained myself by redirecting my thoughts to my family, and our years living in the canyon...well, their years in the canyon. I'm only a year old. The only combat experience I've had would be the couple of skirmishes my dad and I fought together, and the deadly fight I had with the Ground-type group that destroyed my life...

I smiled as I remembered the time my mother had fussed over me scaling the face of the canyon wall. I had reached the top faster than even my dad had. When I got down, I got berated mercilessly by her, but my dad merely chuckled and rubbed the fur on my head. Ever since then, I've kept my hair as spiked as then.

My feelings surged as I remembered the first time my mom had said that statement to me; the one that everyone says as a sign of respect to Neo. She always said I deserved to have wings...Now, I realized, it was Neo, not myself, that had found the only possible way to recieve this blessing...At this, I thought maybe he deserved it more than I did. There are others that have worked harder and suffered more thn I ever have.

This is why he's the Chief. This is why everyone here holds him in such high regard. And I began to feel the same as they did.

Just then, the door burst open, and there he was, surrounded by a group of pokemon who'd obviously been waiting for him. They placed a great colorful wreath of flowers over his neck,and he seemed to think this was all funny...truth was, so did I. I silently giggled. He was looking more and more like a small tropical bird.

Then, some festive music struck up, and neo began dancing with a group of pokemon. The Music soon had everyone dancing. I wasn't exactly a dancer, so I stood to the side and watched the festivities go by. I was happy as I was.

Then, quite unexpectedly, a female Minun came up to me and asked if I wanted to dance. This being the first time I've ever been asked, I obliged, and we headed into the thick of things, dancing wildly and having a good time. I actually danced pretty good myself, for once.

For a long time, we danced together, having the best time. I found out why she had originally asked me to dance. She said I sort of reminded her of Neo...must be the fact that I'm the same species as him. nonetheless, I didn't mind, as long as I got asked to dance, it was fine with me.

Finally, I tired. I told her I was done, and I was just going to have a drink to catch my breathe.

"Okay, it was nice meeting you!" Was her response before she was asked to dance by a Raichu. So, I heaved myself towards the nearest drink bar and ordered another one of those Sparkling Oran Ciders. Once again, I laughed happily as the bubbles fizzed on my tongue. It's the most interesting sensation I've ever felt.

“Oh come on...You know I can’t drink all this. I drink even just half of this and I’d have to run three miles before I can even go flying again…”

I looked over upon hearing this, and realized that Neo was sitting only a few feet away. Man, those bubbles must've really taken all my attention...

I drained my Cider (I couldn't help but laugh again as the fizz tickled my tongue), and, working up a little courage, I turned toward him and said, "So, you must be the Chief I've been told about."

OOC: Thanks for the compliment, Neo.

Oh, and Knightblazer, I realized, now that I've read your last couple of posts, that you got the idea directly from Fullmetal Alchemist, didn't you?

[Knightblazer]

OOC: Yeah. Goes to show you should never watch FMA while typing your RP posts. XD

Frosty Forest
Underground – Winter Maze Level 8th

“Finally past the halfway point,” the wolf muttered to no one in particular as he entered the eighth level, blink as he saw the floor. They were indeed different, now tiled as if in an ancient sanctuary. Gulping hard, Lucied took a pebble and tossed it onto a cracked tile in front of him.

The tile broke.

A hard lump formed upon the Mightyena’s throat as he grabbed another pebble and tossed it onto another tile that was seemingly uncracked. It didn’t crack, making the wolf sigh in relief as he made a leap upon the tile. Looking around him, the wolf soon realized that some of the tiles were cracked, while others weren’t. It seemed as if he had to depend on his eyes on this one. Trying hard not to misinterpret the tiles, the wolf quickly made his way past the floors, making sure to only land onto the tiles that were not cracked. It was hard at first, as the wolf had to control his strength and flexibility in landing, and soon after a few close scrapes and several slips, the Mightyena managed to get to the other side with a sigh of relief. Just then he recalled the last part of the last message he read. Rely on your senses of five.

Could it mean that… the wolf realized in worry, every floor tests on of my senses? Garnet eyes widened in shock when Lucied put two and two together. This is sooooo not good… he thought with a sudden dread in his stomach as he wandered his gaze upon the set of stairs in front of him. As he padded towards the exit of the seventh level, Lucied thought over the next few levels and the meanings of the previous few messages.

The ‘horrors of thirteen’ must mean that this place has thirteen levels, he realized, and the ancient item could relate to the foretold Stone of Winter… the ghouls and that 66 fellas were guards, but it really is puzzling why is there the need for so many guards for an item like this…? Could it be that the power is only for destruction…?

It was then when Lucied shook his head. No, he chided himself, Power is just power; it only depends on the one who uses it; he reminded himself in his various lessons about the world. The only way to find out is to head on, he concluded, as he reached the entrance of the ninth level of the Winter Maze, only to take a surprise look once again upon seeing another etched note.

To Whom It May Concern:

You have been the most splendid thus far if you read this, for I have known and seen few who have past half of the horrors here. As you have guessed, the final five floors of the Winter Maze are specially designed to test your senses of Sight, Hearing, Touch, Smell and Taste. You have successfully passed the test of Sight, and I wish you good luck upon your other four tests.

Lucied gulped hard as he read the message. The messenger guy gets weirder and weirder, I swear, the wolf thought to himself before memorizing the message and turning to head into the next test of the five Senses.

Knightblazer

[TVTMaster]

It was impossible to keep the news from spreading. A delegation of Delta Green elites had come out to meet them, authorizing an excursion into DARK territory. The stone of Spring was Delta Green's target, and the most likely places in DARK territory were Solar Cave and Waterfall Pond. Eretan remembered Neo. He had full power to totally destroy them, and escape with the Stone of Summer. But he let them give terms and readily accepted. He must have really been concerned with keeping peace to let that happen.

Sinister Woods. Not a happy place to be, but obviously DARK wanted to keep strong borders, as it was the major superpower in the whole Stone situation next to Aqua. And Sinister Forest was one of the toughest borders anyone could have. In addition to the threat of the strong wild pokemon, the trees would sometimes attack, revealing themselves as Sudowoodo. It was near impossible. "LUMMMMMMMMMMMM-BER!" A Sudowoodo attacked. "Lum-ber... ha!" A crowd of more of the same surrounded them. Scyther swarmed. It was actually quite similar to the occurence in the Summer Cave. Minus the giant dragon.

"Mister Pin'orcen! There are a lot more than there were before now! Hey, what if they win? What if we die? This might be bad or something!" "No duh, kid. Now get on those Sudowoodo with Leaf Storm!" Launching a barrage, Rowan coated his leaves in a corrosive toxin that eroded Rock type pokemon. A Sudowoodo screamed, and another jumped to take his place. Rowan turned circles, lauching leaves to no end, felling trees and their imitators left and right. But a Scyther jumped, unaffected by the leaves.

"Ah! Geddoffame!" "I've gotcha, kid!" He jumped, his claw growing spikes and turning steel, his signature Metal Crabhammer. The Scyther fell, and Rowan cried out in pain from the blow. "Oops. Eh-he, sorry, kid. Even though you deserved it..." Pin'orcen lept from Sudowoodo to Sudowoodo, bashing them with 4x damage from his combined-type attack. They fell like trees. In a lumberyard. And they kind of were, since the mass attack of Pin'orcen and Rowan was literally breaking them to pieces.

Eretan raised his foot, tuning the attack to his camping quake. Dust billowed from the ground, blinding the Scyther, who fell to earth. Into the dust pit. Eretan quaked again, sending a tremor that buried the Scyther in the earth. Cub jumped in the pit, knocking the Scyther out with a good few electric shocks. But there were too many. Swarming, the pokemon were joined by Shroomish and other pokemon that took advantage of numbers.

And then the forest exploded. A Hyper Beam surged through, meeting a boulder head on. A rain of shrp sonesfell, as the earth was blown apart by the shock wave of the blast. Pokemon fell lef and right, and the team huddled under Eretan, whose shell protected them. "Now get out of here, Swarmers! We are perfectly capable of defeating intruders ourselves!" Eretan groaned. The swarm had been defeated by someone who was clearly more powerful than the force tha had overwhelmed them-- and had declared that they would "deal" with them.

"In- oh! The Delta Green party. My apologies. I am Ren, a Pathfinder of DARK." A burly Graveler stood in the newly formed clearing, along with a Milotic, a Gyarados, and a Houndoom. "This is my squad: Melissa, Gary, and Zachary." "Salut." "Grmph." "I welcome you to DARK territory, allies of Nightwing." The Graveler looked annoyed. "We're not a welcoming commitee, Zach. We're a patrol. Act like it." Eretan coughed. "Oh. Yes. Please. Take the access path, if you will. Tell the checkpoint password: Renfound. Now scoot. We're on a suspicion of an Aqua agent on the border." The team moved along, the seamonsters entwining their bodies.

[Neo Emolga]

Lesalas, DARK Territory
Festival of Feathers Day 2

I… was getting buried… with gifts. They even tried to give me another wreath of feathers, but I told them that I was only going to wear one. Man oh man, in the time it took me to open one present, I had gotten four more. Candles, ornaments, furniture, nick-knacks and a load of other things. Nathaniel was right… they were totally treating me like I was a divinity of some sort.

Meanwhile, there were many others coming in from Seratine and South Bend to… give me even more stuff. Where they even got all this from, I didn’t know, but it was so much for one Pokémon. My hands were getting tired from unwrapping so many presents, this was more than I have ever gotten from any of my birthdays… combined…

I told them that if they put any more on this old bench, it was going to snap in half like a cracker. Not to mention, my little fingers were getting tired. I figured… there was much more room in… the palace if they wanted to leave me something. So I told them to please redirect the stuff over there if… they wanted. Maybe I should have also said they didn’t need to rush about it…

And then, another Pikachu had come to me, seemingly very shy at first. I also noticed a cross-shaped scar over his left eye, which I figured must have rendered that eye totally blind. I… felt a bit sorry for him for a moment, but he still seemed like he was enjoying the celebration and his time here…

“So…” He started, looking at me, “You must be the Chief I've been told about.”

“Yep, that’s right.” I told him, finally glad to meet another down to earth Pokémon like myself, “My real name is actually Neo if you were wondering.”

He… seemed to be new here, and I never saw a Pikachu with a scar like that before around Lesalas…

“Yeah, I’m also the leader of the Windblazers.” I told him, letting him know exactly who I was, “You’ve probably heard the saying, hän joka pitäisi olla siunattu avulla sivukulissit before. Well, for the longest time, everyone just thought of it as a mantra of good fortune. The fact that miracle actually came true through the Stone of Summer… is what all this is about. We never thought it was possible, but with it came true and… well, as you may already know, all creatures with wings are to be considered sacred. I think that kind of explains it all.”

Still, I was glad to see he was really enjoying himself…

[Knightblazer]

Frosty Forest
Underground – Winter Maze Level 9th – Test Of Hearing – Chamber of Ears

The entire room was pitch black as Lucied entered the ninth level. Blinking hard, the Mightyena noticed that the darkness in this room was so dense that he could almost swear he saw light. Trotting nervously, Lucied looked around the darkness, sweat beginning to form along his forehead. Silence was absolute in the room, except for the sounds of the Mightyena’s pants.

Muttering a curse under his breath, the annoyed wolf began cautiously walking down a random path he seemed to saw, eyes and ears opened in case for any enemies. Although his eyes were nothing short of useless in this case, and the Mightyena guessed that this had to be the Test of Hearing. With a mental sigh of resignation, the wolf closed his eyes and concentrated fully on his ears, marveling somewhat at the sudden sharpness of his hearing. Now Lucied suddenly seemed to be able to hear his once silent footsteps, his usually quiet breathing – they all seemed to amplify themselves now.

Suddenly…

PING!

“Hey!” yelled the Mightyena, whipping his head behind as a sudden jolt of pain sliced into his head. Seeing nothing, the wolf looked about for a moment before turning back, closing his eyes once more. Continuing his steps, Lucied was just about to drop is guard when…

PING!

Swearing aloud, Lucied turned back once more, stumbling back in surprise when he came face to face with a miniscule Pidgey with a golden key on its beck. The strange golden aura surrounding the bird glowed, but any form of light emitting from it was soon swallowed up by the pitch-black darkness. Needless to say, the glow was nothing short of an accessory. The Pidgey giggled as he looked at Lucied, who was about to chomp down on it when the creature simply… disappeared. Stunned, the Mightyena looked around again, but found nothing due to the darkness. A sudden rustle of wings came, and then…

PING! The Pidgey attacked once again, the pain causing Lucied to buckle onto the floor. Wincing, the Mightyena desperately tried to think how to get rid of the annoyance haunting him. He moves like the wind, and the fact that I can’t see is not helping at all… he thought. Just then, the wolf heard another rustle of wings, knowing that the bird would attack his head, Lucied immediately ducked as the bird reappeared above him, surprised to see that the wolf leaping at it with open jaws. With a squeak, the Pidgey disappeared into thin air, leaving a most annoyed Mightyena as he landed upon the ground.

Wait, I’m sure I heard its wings just now; that was why I could evade it! Lucied realized quite suddenly. So that means if I use my ears well… he trailed off, closing his eyes once more to focus all his concentration upon his hearing. As expected, the wolf heard the rustle of wings as the Pidgey began to swoop to attack him. Just seconds before reappearing, the wolf ducked, causing the Pidgey to look in confusion before vanishing.

…I was right! Lucied congratulated himself. The Pidgey always rustles its wings before attacking, so if I time this right… he paused in his train of thoughts upon hearing the rustle again. …I could just get him! Finishing that, he ducked just as the Pidgey appeared. With a quick turn using a dose of Agility, the Mightyena snapped back like a bolt of lightning, and snapped the Pidgey in between his jaws. Just as he did so, lights shone through the room once more, startling the wolf, who dropped his jaw upon seeing the exit just ahead of him. The Pidgey flew off from his open prison, giggling as he disappeared.

The Mightyena looked at the exit for a few more seconds before sighing. Well, looks like I do pass after all… he thought as he trotted down the stairs into the tenth level – and third test – of the dreaded Winter Maze.

Knightblazer

[Shen]

Lesalas, Festival Day 2

“Yeah, I’m also the leader of the Windblazers.” He said to me, “You’ve probably heard the saying, hän joka pitäisi olla siunattu avulla sivukulissit before. Well, for the longest time, everyone just thought of it as a mantra of good fortune. The fact that miracle actually came true through the Stone of Summer… is what all this is about. We never thought it was possible, but with it came true and… well, as you may already know, all creatures with wings are to be considered sacred. I think that kind of explains it all.”

"I remember that saying well...my mother used to say that to me sometimes, before..." All I did was touch my scar in thought.

"Congratulations on getting the stone...I had no idea that such a power existed until I saw you in the sky." I smiled. "Definitely an awe-inspiring sight." I looked over to the building, which now had a steady flow of gifts and decorations. "So, you must've been buried under the presents you were recieving. Getting a little tired of it?" I asked sarcastically.

OOC: Sorry for the short post, I couldn't think of anything else to add...legally, anyway.

[Knightblazer]

Frosty Forest
Underground – Winter Maze Level 10th – Test Of Smell – Chamber of Noses

A huge sigh of relief came from Lucied as he walked into the –thankfully- lighted corridors of the tenth level. But his relief was soon rectified when an awful stench assaulted Lucied’s nose. With a snarl, the Mightyena tried his beast not to breathe in as much as possible as he padded past the corridors, but the stopped when a most delicious aroma wafted into his senses. However, it quickly dissipated, the sweet smell overwhelmed by the stench.

I have to find the sourse of that smell! The wolf demanded to himself as he sped off to the north, the direction from where that aroma came from. The intrusive stench was, however, making things difficult for the Mightyena. Closing his eyes once more, Lucied focused his concentration this time onto the aroma wafting his nose a few moments ago. First, it was a small smell, but it slowly got stronger and stronger, until Lucied was quite sure he could track it down. Trying his hardest to follow the aroma, the wolf walked without opening his eyes, a mistake he would regret quite soon.

CLICK!

“Uh-oh.”

With an ominous rumble, a huge boulder crashed onto the icy floor and began rolling towards the Mightyena. With a loud swear, Lucied took cover at the next turn of the corridor, narrowly escaping from the rolling heap of ice and stone. Once he was sure that the boulder was gone, the wolf sighed deeply as he got out of his hiding spot. Due to the fact that he had to break his concentration in order to get way from the boulder, the stench began to assault Lucied’s nose once more, making the Mightyena cringe.

This is getting a tad too annoying… the wolf thought gloomily as he tried to locate the smell once again. Within a few moments, the aroma wafted into his nose once again and Lucied followed it, this time straining to keep his concentration on both the floor and the smell. He lost concentration of either one a few times, usually the first, which resulted in stepping onto several booby traps. However, the wolf soon got quite a good hang of it and followed the aroma. After a few twists and turns in the maze, the smell began to grow heavier and hung in the air.

I must be close! Lucied realized as he sped towards a chamber. When he entered it however, a swarm of Grimmer appeared and began to attack him. The stench from them, he realized, was the same intrusive stench that had been here all along. No wonder the place stinks, the Mightyena mused with a slight grimance as he knocked the piles of sludge with a few Shadow Ball attacks. After defeating them, the Mightyena walked up and looked in surprise at the rose blooming in front of the entrance of the eleventh floor. After staring at the flowing for a while, a smile then appeared upon the wolf’s face.

“The rose among the thorns… or at least, the aroma among the stench,” Lucied muttered with a small chuckle at his joke as he walked down the stairs into the next floor and test of the Winter Maze.

Knightblazer

[Neo Emolga]

Lesalas, DARK Territory
Festival of Feathers Day 2

This Pikachu had a lot of interest and fascination in me. Well, almost everywhere here did, but he seemed different. The scar on his eye told me a story… and it wasn’t a very nice one…

“I remember that saying well...” He told me, “My mother used to say that to me sometimes, before...”

He then cut himself off and then slightly touched his scar with his hands. Something… happened to him and his family, I could see it in his eyes… literally…

Still, he was calm and relaxed. He then brushed it off and then continued.

“Congratulations on getting the stone...” He told me with a smile. “I had no idea that such a power existed until I saw you in the sky. Definitely an awe-inspiring sight.”

He then turned and looked over the palace. I sighed and smiled, he must have really noticed it too.

“So, you must've been buried under the presents you were receiving.” He told me, “Getting a little tired of it?”

“Ha ha.” I laughed with him, “I’m not really all that possessive of those kinds of things, but I really appreciate the thought of them. This whole celebration has been… yeah, quite eventful.”

And then, shortly after, I was joined by Nathaniel. I was wondering where he had gone off to, but I then realized he was still sharing stories about the recovery of the stone.

“Hey Chief.” Nathaniel told me jokingly, “You look pretty cute with that white robe and wreath of feathers around your neck…”

“Oh shut up.” I laughed at him, “I look enough like a bird already.”

But, he then took a look at the Pikachu sitting near me, and then looked at him curiously for a moment.

“Ah, Landon.” He told him, before turning to face me, “This is Landon, I talked to him last night after drinking myself out of my mind. He told me he’s interested in joining the Windblazers.”

“You are, Landon?” I asked the Pikachu with the scarred eye, “You know… I think you would be excellent for it. It’s hard training, I won’t deny that, but… hey, chances are good we could be fighting side by side. You come with me, and I’ll prove you’re capable of things you never thought you could do.”

Still, for now, we could enjoy ourselves, before all that hard training began. But there was one thing that was left unexplained…

What really did happen to Landon’s family…?

[Knightblazer]

Frosty Forest
Underground – Winter Maze Level 11th – Test Of Touch– Chamber of Skin

Only the Tests of Touch and Taste are left… Lucied mused to himself as he padded into the eleventh level. I wonder what comes first? He questioned himself, although he hardly expected an answer. Just as the wolf took one more step forward… the entire room plunged into patch-black darkness, the sudden blackness startling Lucied. The Mightyena stumbled back; only to yelp and fall back down the stairs as the lights suddenly flickered back on again.

“Owie…” muttered Lucied as he clambered up the stairs once more. Looking around, the wolf noticed nothing of great suspicion, and then yelped once again when he stumbled back down the stairs by the sudden darkness that overwhelmed the shining light a few moments ago. This process repeated a few times until Lucied finally realized that it was the panel in front of him that was the culprit. The Mightyena swung his paw over the tile a few times, noticing that the lights turned on when he was before the tile, and out when it was over the tile. The same went for every other tile in the row and beyond. Placing a paw down onto the floor, the wolf realized that the tile was rough compared to the smooth one he was currently standing on.

So this is the Test Of Touch… the wolf realized slowly as he cautiously padded forwards, this time used to the sudden blackout. With cautious footing, Lucied slowly padded along the dark corridors, his paws slowly turning numb due to the hard roughness of the ground. The Mightyena was sure the nerves on his paws were definitely out when suddenly…

Smoothness! Realized Lucied as he made a small jump towards the tile. Just as he did, the room lit up again, revealing Lucied where he was. The Mightyena was actually in the center between two crossroads, one on the left and the other on the right. A Cheshire grin graced Lucied’s features as he saw it. Heh, the classic left or right choice? He mused to himself. Well, I guess I’ll pick right then, he decided, leaping towards the entrance of the right corridor just as the lights blacked out again.

Padding through the corridor, the Mightyena soon felt smoothes under the tile ahead of him, much to the wolf’s surprise. However, his joy disappeared when the tile let out an all to familiar, all too ominous CLICK.

“Oh, shi-” started to swear the wolf again, but was cut short this time by a barrage of spikes from the opposite end of the corridor. With a powerful leap, Lucied once again evaded the wrath of the spikes by clinging himself onto the wall. Glancing around to make sure that the spikes were gone, Lucied detached himself from the ceiling, making a graceful leap onto the floor in front of the booby-trapped tile, his face set in a grim line. Looks like things weren’t so easy after all…

After a hundred steps, thirteen booby traps and two Monster Houses later, Lucied finally managed to stumble upon the way onto the twelfth floor of the Maze – and the final test. As Lucied headed down the stairs, he was not so surprised now to see another note from the messenger.

To Whom It May Concern:

Congratulations on passing the first four trials! I am most pleasantly surprised that one has managed to go thus far throughout these horrors. So far, the Tests of Sight, Hearing, Smell and Touch have been passed. The last test – the Test of Taste, is by far one of the worse ever created. Always think twice about your decision, and the best of luck of you.

Lucied grimaced as he read the message. Well, it can’t get any more worse than the rest… the Mightyena tried to comfort himself, but to no avail. Gulping down the hard lump on his throat, the wolf made his way to the final test of senses – the Test of Taste.

Knightblazer

[Neo Emolga]

OOC: Go, Knightblazer, go! XD

Lesalas, DARK Territory
Festival of Feathers Day 2

I swore it was going to take me almost a month to finish unwrapping all those presents…

However, they then wanted me to perform another ritual. I knew… whatever was happening now was going to easily become tradition for the many years after word, as silly as I thought they were. But, if I made them happy by doing it, then I was all for it.

I was handed two pillow cases stuffed with even more feathers from Jean again, who was the one who came up with this crazy idea. Great, now all I needed was some tar and I could really look like a bird.

“Okay, here’s a neat idea I thought up.” Jean told me, handing me all the feathers, “I was talking to Nathaniel here and told me you now have wind powers. So, I thought of an idea where you fly into the air with the feathers in these pillow cases, dump them out, and then create a wind gust and then blow all of the feathers all over town. Meanwhile, everyone on the ground will try to catch one, and if they do, it will bring them good luck.”

“Oh for pete’s sake, Jean.” I told her, nearly laughing at how stupid that sounded, “Catching a feather in midair doesn’t bring good luck.”

“Well, you are sacred after all…” She told me, giving me a nudge, “What’s not to say someone down there will find that catching a feather blown from a mystical power like that doesn’t have some kind of bearing to it?”

I sighed, and just looked at all the feathers in there. With all these and all the other feathers that were all over town, I expected to see the aviaries quite cleaned out of feathers… and then some…

If I really did this and they loved it… I would be doing this year after year, I knew it. But, I shrugged and figured I might as well. Besides, I knew I wasn’t going to finish this Oran Cider, and I needed to get my eyes off that pile of presents. If it kept growing the way it was, I was going to need a second palace just to store all that stuff in…

“Fine, fine…” I told Jean, causing her to burst into wild, childish excitement, “Tell all your friends to get ready…”

I still thought this was crazy… even more ridiculous than this wreath I was wearing…

I grabbed the two pillow cases full of feathers, spread my wings, and then took off into the air. Man, even just that was enough to get them excited to the point where they were all watching. New music started playing, and they were making a whole theatrical performance out of this.

Ugh, that Jean. She had prepared this ahead of time, I could tell. I flew as high as a hundred feet into the air, overturned the two pillow causes, causing massive clumps of feathers to start breaking down and floating down as individual feathers. And then, shortly after, I used my wings and created a very small gust. It was barely even a fragment of my power, since I knew that what I had now could cause hurricanes and tornadoes if I wanted to.

Still, they got so excited… over nothing. They came down and it was an ecstasy of grabbing, cheering, running, and shrill laughter. Oh, they loved it all right. Meanwhile, I was laughing myself at how ridiculous this whole ordeal was from up here. I could bet even tomorrow would be filled with even more crazy ideas… that would be repeated for years to come…

However, I flew back down, and watched them take everyday ordinary feathers that would have been thrown out like the rest of the wastes the aviaries created into priceless, treasured gifts they would hold on to for years…

And it took a really goofy holiday antic to do it…

[Knightblazer]

Frosty Forest
Underground – Winter Maze Level 12th – Test Of Taste – Chamber Of Tongues

The final test… the test Of Taste… Lucied mused to himself once more. Apparently it was becoming quite a habit. Wonder how a test of taste would go like…? He questioned to himself with a small smirk, but then chocked on his giggle as an absurd idea came into mind. Game show? No… way…

Just as Lucied walked into the chamber before him, black flames sprouted behind him, startling the wolf. Stumbling back, the wolf knocked hard against a table behind him. Turning his head in surprise, garnet eyes widened as icy blue flames blocked the other way out. Jaw dropping in horror, the Mightyena sighed deeply, only to groan aloud as he saw a set of potion bottles before me. A card was beside there, a riddle written on it.

Here stands seven bottles that you will never find
Three among us are killers if you so dare to sip
Two of us are mettle wine, waiting hand in hand
One of us will bring you forward
While the Other will transport the drinker back instead

The killers detest being together
As the wine wait had in hand
To move forwards and backwards, one must decide
Will the position of bottles point towards the end?

A groan came from Lucied once more as he read the riddle. “I’m never good at them…” muttered the wolf as he peered closely at the written text.

‘Awaiting hand in hand’… the wine bottles are together, I guess, decided the wolf, the poison are apart, and most likely alternate... wait, that can’t be right, he realized, if the wine must be together and the poison apart, then… he trailed off as he picked the bottles off. First… going back potion… poison…wine, wine… poison, go ahead, poison… no… he thought as he saw at the last line of the text. Position… he mused as he looked at the bottles. All seven were upright, except for the last one, near the icy blue flames. Studying it carefully, Lucied noticed that there was a slight dent on the bottle, signaling that the bottle had indeed been used.

Might as well try it…! Lucied thought as he grabbed the bottle in question and gouged it down. Immediately, the Mightyena felt a chill racing up his spine. Holding his breath, the wolf dashed… and leaped through the flames. Looking at the final set of stairs before him, Lucied heaved a sigh of relief as the flames died out. Lucky I have sharp instincts, he thought in relief, otherwise I would have been stuck there forever!

Lucied gulped as he looked towards the stairs. “Well, looks like I passed everything…” he muttered as he padded ever so silently towards the stairs, not surprised at all with a final note scribbled onto the icy wall. However, the Mightyena’s eyes widened in surprise when he saw traces of dried blood upon the etched words.

To Whom It May Concern:

Finally… you have reached the end… I must complete this, for my time is short.

Like you, I have come here in an accident, discovering this hidden cavern by chance and believed it was a way out. However, this place would only lead to doom, so please, leave at once! The Mist Dragon is a terrible creature, and I am at my end. I write this in desperation that one day; a soul would come and rescue me from the clutches of this terrible beast. But for now… I… I…

And the message ended there.

A hard lump formed upon Lucied’s throat as butterflies began to form in his stomach. This was hardly good at all. But still, the Mightyena had not come here in futility. I am going to go there! He decided, eyes blazing with determination as the wolf padded down the final set of stairs… into the final level of the Winter Maze.

Knightblazer

OOC: GAH! HELP ME, NEO! JUST ONE MORE POST!!! T_T

[Neo Emolga]

OOC: That poison thing sounds quite familiar, but I can’t put my finger on what its from…

Now hurry, and get back to my party! XD

Lesalas, DARK Territory
Festival of Feathers Day 2

They named it the Feather Dancer Ceremony, and yes, they loved it. What soon began again was more dancing and music to further celebrate it as the day carried on. Still, I was enjoying it though, I haven’t seen DARK’s citizens having this much fun in a long time. And it was only getting more crowded as time went on and more food was served. Still, I found myself not really that hungry though. This… Oran Cider was filling enough…

I loved flying though. To them, I could be a flight show and a fireworks display in one. Meanwhile, I had gotten word that Delta Green was already searching for the Stone of Spring in DARK territory, and that Ren’s party had met up with them to help them on their mission. Meanwhile, I made it clear that if they needed additional assistance, I would give it to them.

After all, they did let us have this whole celebration in peace in the first place. This would be the first act of trusting each other. If we could exchange something so important like this, it would show that we could work together.

In this same light, I saw Team Aqua as the real enemy here. Scouts had reported that their leaders were two individuals by the names of Finch and rust, Finch being a Hitmonlee and rust being a Kabutops. Their other activities at the moment were unknown, but we needed to make sure they wouldn’t crawl any further into our lands than what we had now. I didn’t like the sound of them, but for now, I kept them out of my mind. Last thing I needed was for a couple of reckless fanatics to spoil a excellent celebration as this one…

I was looking forward to hearing Delta Green getting the Stone of Spring. The pact between us would be complete…

[Knightblazer]

OOC: Harry Potter. 1st book. Couldn't find my copy of it. ><; And after Pulling 14 Neos in a row... *whew* Fun dosen't end there, though...

Frosty Forest
Underground – Winter Maze Level 13th – Stone Of Winter Chamber

A gentle blue glow greeted the Mightyena as he entered the chamber beholding the Stone Of Winter in all its glory. A loud gasp came out from Lucied as he looked at the stone. Big and monstrous, the Winter Stone was a giant crystal of icy blue mixed with the gracefulness of cobalt and navy, an eloquent carving of snowflakes etched upon it. The wolf couldn’t believe his eyes as he padded up to the gigantic stone, crimson eyes shining in awe and winder as he studied the gem carefully, never noticing the small fragment missing from it. Never before had Lucied laid his eyes on such a beautiful thing…

As the wolf reached out a paw to touch it, the cavern suddenly shook as huge doses of mist appeared, forming altogether to reveal the monster the messages had warned him about. The demon with no form and no substance… and ultimately a soulless beast.

The Mist Dragon…

In a bid of desperation, Lucied slammed himself onto the crystal, the essence of chill and frost beginning to merge with the carefree spirit of the wolf. His spine suddenly stiffened as chills of the coldest kind raced through his back. An absolute coldness overtook his body as Lucied fell onto the ground, teeth clenched tight at the sudden coldness spreading through out his body. But yet, both his front paws kept their touch onto the stone, as if not willing to let go…

Please… begged the Mightyena mentally towards the stone, Lend me your strength to kill this monster! As he did, the stone began to shrink slowly… slowly… until the entire crystal had disappeared, causing Lucied to fall back onto the floor, his body now filled with the power of the Winter Stone. The wolf looked in surprise at his skin. It was even paler that before now, almost translucent in color. Was this one of the effects of the stone…?

Nevertheless, the Mightyena looked with newfound determination towards the demon before him. With a huge roar, the dragon let loose a stream of icy fire, which Lucied evaded with ease, the sudden increase of reflexes surprising him. Whoa, he thought as he looked at one of his now pale-looking paws, is this one of the effects too? But before he could decide upon an answer, however, the demon sent a Razor Wind towards the wolf. By pure instinct, Lucied waved a helpless paw in front of him, and immediately a small wall of ice appeared before him, blocking him from the deadly flying attack. This move was even more shocking for the Mightyena.

I think a crash course would be helpful right about now… he joked weakly inside as he landed. Just as the Mist Dragon was about to let loose another blaze of icy flames, the Mightyena leaped and sent an Ice Punch straight onto the demon. With a roar, the dragon dissolved into mist, forming back quickly and blasting the wolf with a doze of Icy Wind. Strangely, the attack had less effect on him than usual. Must be the power of Winter, he joked weakly once again as he landed harshly onto the icy floor.

Damnit… the Mightyena swore, gritting his teeth together in pain as his other wounds –old and previous- agitated themselves. Lucied got up on shaky feet and looked at the looming demon before him, wings wide open and fangs barred as crimson eyes looked straight at him, those garnet orbs glowing in bloodlust and promise of a kill.

Lucied shivered. And it had nothing to do with the cold now.

Knightblazer

OOC: 100th Post, and second stone! O.O;

[TVTMaster]

OOC: Right, I'm doing Solar Cave first (The cave thing was sort of already done in Thunder Meadow, so the stone won't be there), but I know they're all supposed to be underground, so I'm gonna do a cave involving a delicate ecosystem sustained by the waterfall, and I'll have to get by without damaging the fragile channel network or disrupting the balance of the cave, lest angry pokemon swarm me. Then, I've done the swarm twice, so I won't break it. It'll just be hard not to. And BTW, that poison thing was directly out of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's/Philosopher's Stone. Naughty KB!

City of Lesalas, Lesalas

The trip had been eventful. The path to Seratine was not blocked by wild pokemon, but rather myriads of DARK checkpoints. Every checkpoint, Eretan would mutter "Renfound", and the DARK agents would have him fill out paperwork, and then he would be shuttled to the next by a similar system of slates like the ones in Tanaska. Slower ones. Eretan would often simply walk along them, as the Lucario and Medicham working were not nearly as strong as the Machop in Pin'orcen's city. As he neared Seratine, he met feathered pokemon babbling about the new "Festival of Feathers". Neo's stone must have been something really big...

Leaving Seratine, Pin'orcen made a case to try Waterfall Pond first, but Eretan ugnored him, earning a good few Vicegrips. Eretan grew bolder, conidering himself the leader of his team. An Pin'orcen acknowledged it after a Giga Drain. Ignoring the vast fertility of Waterfall Pond, he proceeded to head for Solar Cave near Lesalas. The city came into view, with feathers being shot into the sky. They flew in beautiful patterns, coming to rest on the crowd. A strange practice. And then Cub pointed out a speck in the sky above the city. Neo.

"Eretan, can we just go around? I want no part in that madness." "Pin'orcen, Neo is no enemy. Remember his mercy toward us. I think it would be a good idea to at least visit his celebration." "Eretan. This is a top DARK agent here. We can't trust him." "If we couldn't trust him, we'd be dead, buried in that cave." Pin'orcen was silent. As they neared the gates, a large Shelgon stood at a booth. Eretan had a sense of deja vu. One that grew like a weed, out of control.

"Halt where you are! I have all authority to prevent you from crossing unless you are under the banner of DARK!" The Shelgon in the ticket booth spoke into a microphone. Eretan studied the possible means of getting by. There was telling the truth, but a little nagging feeling about not actually being part of DARK told him no. Instead, he casually ignored the guard, who had accidentally turned himself upside down in yelling at the "intruders". "You BEEPs! Come BEEPing back here! You can't BEEPing ignore me! BEEP BEEP BEEP!" Eretan ignored him, proceeding to the town's center, toward Neo and his festival.

[Knightblazer]

OOC: Meh, switching to first POV for the next few posts. Hope yer don't mind... ><; And argh... just for the sake of the stone,I've stayed up to... 3.30 AM?! Man, I gotta hit the sack. X.X This must be what people call 'dedication'. ><;

Frosty Forest
Underground – Winter Maze Level 13th – Stone Of Winter Chamber

The Stone Of Winter… the very essence of chill and frost itself… now was within me. I still couldn’t get over that fact as I faced the crazed Mist Dragon. Me, a lowly Pokemon, now having the one of the four stones of legend inside me? This was definitely not my lucky day…

With a roar, the demon once again let loose another stream of fire, which I swiftly managed to evade. Was that all that mist creature could let out…? Nevertheless, I had to get rid of it quickly. Crouching down low, I concentrated hard on the new power flowing through me – my own attacks would be useless, after all. Letting the new sensation of the frost flowing freely, I opened my eyes, looking in surprise when I realized they now turned a bright crystalline sapphire as I saw my reflection. Another of the effects…?

Before I could think, say or do anything else, however, the Mist Dragon released a double Gust with a flap of its powerful wings. I barely blocked by forming yet another icy barrier in front of me. As soon as the Gust was finished, I dashed away with Agility, evading the dragon’s continuous stream of icy flames as I began charging an Ice Beam attack in my mouth, pale blue bits beginning to merge between my jaws, slowly merging and forming into a small ball. Just as the demon finished he last burst of Icy Fire, I leaped up and sent the Ice Beam attack right into one of his eye sockets. The result was immediate.

With a loud roar, the Mist Dragon raised his head up high once more, trashing his long neck from side to side as he tried to shake off the ice shards embedded into its eyes. Icy blue flames spewed out in enticing, deadly patterns into the chilling air. Talons tugged hard into the earth and with a huge flap of its wings, sent me flying once more my back colliding painfully against the icy floor of the cavern.

“Ah… swell…” I muttered weakly, a small grin forming upon my face as I summoned the power of the stone within me. Charging an Ice Ball, I skidded hard along the ice to evade the full brunt of the demon’s Icy Wind attack before I turned and let loose the Ice Ball. The tiny ball smashed against the large frame for the demon, and it grunted before letting out another stream of icy fire. Seriously, doesn’t he ever switch move sets? I charged a few Ice Balls in quick succession, noticing the difference with the timing and power of each Ice Ball. Unlike the Shadow Ball attack, the each Ice Ball took longer than the last to charge, but then their difference in power was… nothing short of amazing. However, I knew this could not hold out for long; too long, and the demon would just get me…

I quickly switched tactics after releasing my -what seemed to be- fifteenth Ice Ball. They were getting too long to charge. Taking a gamble, I tried to use the stone’s raw power. Leaping into the air, I spun like my battle with 66, and charged towards the dragon head-on. It tried to counter with its flames, but the momentum of my spin sliced through the flames… and shredded through the dragon. It disappeared with a roar, but I was soon hit back with a Wing Attack, the mist hardening into stony ice as it slammed against my back. With a yelp, I fell onto the floor once again.

Slightly fazed by the attack, I got up on shaky paws and shook my head. It was only then when I noticed that the tips of my fur were now an icy blue. Was it due to the frost, or another part of the stone’s effects? Perhaps I may never know…

Think, stupid! Ifrit would be ashamed to see you like this!

Taking in a deep breath, I began to analyze the enemy. So the dragon was made outta mist, able to disperse and go back at will. But if there was moisture and humidity at a high level… the dragon may die if it couldn’t solidify… again…

It was a risky move, but I had to do it to protect myself…

To protect everyone…

Spinning yet again, I sheared through the dragon, forcing him to dissipate into mist. Then I quickly drew on the power of the stone and summoned a rainstorm, using an even larger amount of power to keep them liquefied and not frozen as snow. A roar rumbled through the cavern as the rain-washed the mist away, slowly, finally fading away entirely before I stopped and slumped tiredly against the wall…

I had won… and the demon… was defeated…

Just then, I spotted something glittering at the corner of the room. Getting up shakily, I padded towards there, noticing a set of frozen, familiar paw prints onto the ground… I bumped into a huge bock of ice, and only gasped as I looked up to see what it really was. A Houndoom frozen in the ice… no, I saw the indistinguishable crack running along its left horn. It couldn’t be…

Ifrit?!

Knightblazer

[Neo Emolga]

OOC: Yep, now I remember. Man, you’re good. It’s been a while since I’ve read HP books though…

And yeah, I always like first person POV better.

Lesalas, DARK Territory
Festival of Feathers Day 2

I had heard… some kind of crazy commotion going on. Well, I’ll admit, this whole festival was kind of crazy, but this was a little different. And it’s not what I had suspected either…

Suddenly, from out of nowhere, I heard a whole lot of swearing. Man, I would have loved to know who was doing that, I quickly got up, headed to the source of the noise while others were looking at this whole spectacle.

Surprisingly, I saw the team from Delta Green here, the same ones I met in the cavern. Well, I figured I might as well show everyone else they were welcome here. However, I realized who was the one swearing their heads off. A Shelgon guard had come waddling over here like his behind was on fire.

“Chief!” He shouted, looking at me, “Intruders! I tried to stop them but…!”

I looked down right next to him and made my point clear…

“Shut up already!” I shouted in his face.

Everyone quieted down a bit. Meanwhile, the Shelgon was awfully humiliated…

“S-Sorry chief…” The Shelgon stuttered.

“First off, this is Delta Green.” I told the Shelgon carefully, pointing to the Kingler, the Dotaitos, the Elekid, and the Hayashigame, “Now before you go barking at them again like that and screaming obscenities in front of women and children, let me tell you that Delta Green really helped me out in that cavern when recovering the Stone of Summer. They were the ones I made a deal with to help them recover their own stone, since we had gotten the Stone of Summer in Delta Green territory. They are to be treated with respect while they are here, understand?”

After some quivering and some shaking, he then spoke up.

“I… I understand, Chief.” The Shelgon nodded.

“Good.” I told him with a smile, patting his shell on the side, “Now let them enjoy themselves while they’re here, they have as much right to do so as anyone else here, perhaps even more so.”

He then scurried off, and I felt a little embarrassed this had to happen. I then turned back to Delta Green, and tried to shake this… little mess off jokingly…

“Sorry about that.” I told the members of Delta Green with a weak laugh, “Almost everyone knows who you are. Anyway, we’ll get to the details of the stone, but first… you guys have got to try some of this Oran Cider. They’re serving it like water over here.”

I needed to show I wanted to keep in good terms with Delta Green. If anything, this whole celebration was proof of our passion for the pursuit of the Summer Stone, and why we were after it. But, I was more than willing to show we would do whatever it took to uphold our end of the deal.

[Knightblazer]

Frosty Forest
Underground – Winter Maze Level 13th – Stone Of Winter Chamber

It couldn’t be… after all these time searching… I found him in the most unimaginable place. Quickly, I shattered his icy prison with an Ice Punch attack and grabbed his body from the shattering crystals. As soon as he was in my arms, Ifrit began to regain consciousness. Eyes flickered as he turned and gave a sardonic smirk. “It’s been a long time… Luci,” he said weakly.

“Ifrit…” I muttered his name in disbelief. It was so long… so long… I had almost given up on him, but yet… in the strangest twist of fate, he was now here in my arms! “We’ll talk later,” I said, “Right now we need to get outta here, pal!”

Ifrit, however, slowly shook his head in response. “I can’t.”

“You… can’t…?”

“Yeah; I’m bonded to this place. I’m the one who held the leash to this twisted hellhole.”

“You?” I questioned incredulously, “but you’re in that pillar of ice! How could you be bonded if you’re held in stasis like that?!”

“Its precisely because I’m bonded that I have to be held in stasis,” replied the Houndoom, the one who had I been searching for all these years, “If I’m dead… so does this place…”

“Then I can get you out!”

“It’s no use; I’ll still die in the end.” Saying that, Ifrit raised a paw, and with a flash, an Escape Orb lay on it. Placing the Orb on my own paws, he continued on, “Promise me that with the power of the Winter Stone, you’ll stop this war, alright?” he asked.

I chocked back my tears as I nodded. “Alright.” Ifrit then grinned a last grin towards me as the place began to fall. Using the last of his own energy, he activated the Escape Orb, strengthening its power as well. “Ifrit…” I started, but he shook his head as a response.

“You promised…” was all that he said before his face disappeared in a flash of light. Next thing I knew, the bright blue skies of the Lesalas grounds appeared before me as the Escape Orb teleported me back home. By now, the aftermath of the incident had put a huge strain on my body. Mindlessly, I trudged myself along the path, limbs crying out for rest as I dragged my tired body. My vision was already dimming as I reached the huge gates. One of the guards –and a companion of mine- Leon, a Grovyle recognized my battered figure and ran up to me. “Gods, what happed to you, Lucied?” he asked.

“…need… Chief… tell…him… I need… see…him…” was all that I could struggle out before I lost all sense of reality and fell into unconsciousness.



Leon immediately snapped when he saw his friend fainting before him. Telling the Marowak guard beside him to take care of the Mightyena, the Grovyle dashed into the festival and right up to Neo, who was having a conversation with the trio from Delta Green.

“Chief!” yelled the grass-type and plowed on before anyone else had a chance to continue, “Sorry for the interruption, sir, but its Lucied; he’s fainted at the gates!”

Knightblazer

OOC: Please regnoize me, Neo... *prays* Oh and if you do, a noticable thing would be the sudden paleness of his skin (although he was pale before, but this is the pale to the point of near translucentness)

[TVTMaster]

OOC: The Cloyster from my first Four Stones post and the Shelgon must be related or something. Dunno if you ever read it. Made my dad laugh out loud.

City of Lesalas, Lesalas

The Shelgon righted himself and ran ahead. "Chief!" He shouted, looking at Neo, "Intruders! I tried to stop them but...!" "Shut up already!" "S-Sorry, chief..." Neo stared down the familiar-looking guard. "First off, this is Delta Green." Neo pointed at Eretan and the motley crew on his back. "Now before you go barking at them again like that and screaming obscenities in front of women and children, let me tell you that Delta Green really helped me out in that cavern when recovering the Stone of Summer. They were the ones I made a deal with to help them recover their own stone, since we had gotten the Stone of Summer in Delta Green territory. They are to be treated with respect while they are here, understand?"

"I... I understand, Chief." The Shelgon's hidden face looked almost to nod. "Good. Now let them enjoy themselves while they’re here, they have as much right to do so as anyone else here, perhaps even more so." The guard ran back to his post, and began hassling a family of Mareep. "Sorry about that. Almost everyone knows who you are. Anyway, we’ll get to the details of the stone, but first... you guys have got to try some of this Oran Cider. They’re serving it like water over here." Neo seemed quite positive in his atttude toward Eretan and co, despite the scene. "Sure! From the looks of the stains on your fur, I'd say they've been force-feeding you the stuff."

Eretan walked toward the stand, as Pin'orcen dismounted. And Rowan's mouth began its usual habit of running. "Hey Eretan! This is really fun! Hey, these DARK people are good! ...Too good. Oh man! It's a trap! ATTACK! Bad! Bad! Bad!" Rowan proceeded to attack a Mr. Mime, who trapped Rowan in an invisible box. "Ow. I can't move! It IS a trap!" Eretan groaned, and smashed the barrier to let his little brother out. Hitting him in the head, Eretan let Cub feed Rowan a bit of a jolt. "Yiiii! Imposterssshhh...zzzzzzz..." The Mr. Mime had put him to sleep. "I apologize. But please keep him away from me!"

Eretan guzzled cider from a spout for handless pokemon. The cider was good, but as he kept drinking he began to get sick of it. Poor Neo. The cider did heal the superficial cuts he had recieved from the Scyther, and the team all had a drink. Eretan neared Neo, attempting but failing miserably to blend in with the crowd of fans. "Neo. I came here to notify you of our plan to first search Solar Cave for the Stone of Spring. It and Waterfall Pond are the likely candidates for the location of the Stone. I don't want to keep you from this festival, however. I could have Pin'orcen send up a bubblebeam signal for help if we need anything..."

[Neo Emolga]

OOC: Ah, I couldn’t turn my back to an old friend…

And sorry, got a bit tied up at work... XP

Lesalas, DARK Territory
Festival of Feathers Day 2

Delta Green was really interested in the Stone of Spring, as I could tell…

"Neo. I came here to notify you of our plan to first search Solar Cave for the Stone of Spring.” The Dotaitos told me, “It and Waterfall Pond are the likely candidates for the location of the Stone. I don't want to keep you from this festival, however. I could have Pin'orcen send up a bubblebeam signal for help if we need anything...”

So that’s what the Kingler’s name was. However, I was glad we came to an agreement.

“Solar Cave and the Waterfall Pond sound like good estimates…” I told him, giving him a nod, “We have Pathfinders that easily know the way there, if you want an escort. Also, we’ve got plenty of food and supplies if you need them. I’d go with you… but… as you can easily see, I’ve got my hands full at the moment. But if you need help, I’ll take that Bubblebeam as a signal. I’ll see to it that you get that stone you want.”

I was just about to sit down again until suddenly, Leon had come dashing toward me from the gates. Judging from the look on his face, it looked like something horrible had happened.

“Chief!” The Grovyle shouted at me.

“Leon.” I shouted back to him, running up to him, “Relax, what the heck just happened?”

He took a deep breath again, and then looked back at me.

“Sorry for the interruption, sir, but its Lucied; he’s fainted at the gates.”

“Lucied, geez…” I replied, motioning for him to lead the way, “Come on, let’s get moving.”

I followed Leon to the gates and there he was. Man, I couldn’t imagine what the heck happened. Quickly, we had leaned down next to the Mightyena, and I looked him over. I put my hand on his forehead, and I couldn’t believe how cold he was. Not to mention his skin was incredibly pale, like he had been freezing out in the cold for days…

“Geezus, he’s cold as hell…” I stated, looking into his wincing eyes before turning back to the crowd, “Someone get me some bed sheets, he’s freezing cold!”

They were pretty quick about it, and it didn’t take long before I had Lucied’s body covered with some sheets to keep him warm. After that, I told the others to help me carry him to the inn where he could stay by the fire to warm him up. Meanwhile, I was still wondering what happened.

However, I decided to give him the rest of my Oran Cider… because like hell I was going to be able to drink all that myself. If he was hurt anywhere, this would bring him right back to normal again, and then some…

With the help of some other Pokémon, we brought him to the inn and kept him by the fire so he could warm himself up. Meanwhile, I kept trying to feed him some mashed up Oran Berries, but I wasn’t sure if they were going down.

“Come on Lucied…” I told him, staying with him by the fire, “I know you, you wouldn’t let a little cold stop you now…”

Hopefully soon… he would be back with us. I couldn’t imagine what happened to him though, it looked like he had been frozen in a block of ice for days…

[TVTMaster]

OOC: DARK with two, Delta Green with one soon. Aqua will have the Autumn one soon, so before long, all stones will be possesed. Seems Rocket isn't even RPing. A shame. Anyway, with the Stone of Winter here, we might be able to trade winter for spring if possible. Of course, I have a good few posts before I can do that, so I'll be back in Lesalas in a few irl days if all goes well.
City of Lesalas, Lesalas

"Solar Cave and the Waterfall Pond sound like good estimates..." Neo told Eretan, nodding. "We have Pathfinders that easily know the way there, if you want an escort. Also, we've got plenty of food and supplies if you need them. I'd go with you... but... as you can easily see, I've got my hands full at the moment. But if you need help, I'll take that Bubblebeam as a signal. I'll see to it that you get that stone you want." Suddenly, a Grovyle burst in. "Chief!" The Grovyle shouted at Neo. "Leon." Neo ran up to the grass pokemon. "Relax, what the heck just happened?" He took a deep breath again, and then looked back at Neo.

"Sorry for the interruption, sir, but its Lucied: he's fainted at the gates." "Lucied, geez…" Neo responded. "Come on, let's get moving." Eretan, Neo, and Leon rushed to the gates. A Mightyena lay helpless on the ground. His body seemed frozen to the core, yet it moved the way a corpse should. Neo carried the body inside, wrapping it up in blankets and placing it near a fire. "Neo. No pokemon is frozen in such a way. He's still stone-cold. He's been at the fire for a while now. Something is wrong. I suspect an Aqua agent beat him to the Stone of Winter-- and used it on Lucied."

[Shen]

Lesalas, Festival Day 2

We were joined shortly after by the Sneasel who I met earlier. He told the Chief who I was, and that I was interested in joining the Windblazers.

“You are, Landon?” Neo asked, “You know… I think you would be excellent for it. It’s hard training, I won’t deny that, but… hey, chances are good we could be fighting side by side. You come with me, and I’ll prove you’re capable of things you never thought you could do.”

I smiled again. "I'll be looking forward to that."

It was about then that he decided to leave and check on the mountain of presents that were piling up near the door to the '"palace" I observed. I bid him farewell, and headed out to the dancing grounds again. The Minun was nowhere in sight, but I had already decided I wasn't going to dance for a while longer.

I headed back towards the inn, hoping I might meet up with Zhunjai or Cameron there. I could talk to them about what had just transpired, and maybe we could begin trainng our bodies for what could be the toughest part of our lives yet.

My thoughts were cut off as a few thousand feathers floated down from the sky. Looking around, I chuckled. Somebody must've gotten Neo to do another kind of new tradition. I also noticed other pokemon around scrambling to grab a feather before it hit the ground. I silently chuckled, and picked a feather out of the air as it was falling in front of me. How could something so trivial and useless mean so much to these citizens?...morale was definitely one of the possible reasons.

I walked along, absentmindedly twirling the soft white feather in my paw. My thoughts centered on what Neo said earlier: "You come with me, and I'll prove your capable of things you never thought you could do before." I was determined this would be true.

Once again, my thoughts were interrupted, but this time, it was a loud stream of curses issuing from the Western Entrance to the city. Sensing trouble, I used Agility to speed myself over to the source of the problem.

I stopped as I saw a Shelgon berrating a team of pokemon. They simply ignored him, until Neo had come flying down to resolve the problem. He yelled at the Shelgon to shut up, and explained the situation.

"Hey!" someone yelled behind me. I turned around to find it was Zhunjai.

"Hey. D'jyoo have some fun?" I asked.

She nodded. "Yeah, but it was nothing without you there."

At this, I blushed slightly. I've had feelings for Zhunjai for some time now, and it was comforting to know she preferred my company.

She looked over me. "So, that's Neo?" I nodded. "He looks as much the hero as he was described to be."

"That's not all." I said, "Earlier, at the dancing celebration at the place that looks like a palace now, I actually got to talk to him face to face." Noting the look of incredulity on her face, I suggested we head back to the inn. I'd tell her all that happened then.

A couple of minutes later, Zhunjai, Cameron and I were sitting at a solitary table in the bar of the inn, near a roaring fire. We sipped Oran Cider while I told them.

"We just talked like normal pokemon, instead of the stereotypical talk between a monarch and a villager. He's pretty cool."

Man, if I kept drinking this delightful drink like this, I'll either become addicted to or sick of the stuff. But for now, let the good times roll!

We discussed what we might do the next day to prepare ourselves for the intense training that was iminent for the soon-to-be Windblazers. We exaggerated, boasted, and exchanged banter back and forth, having fun with it.

BOOM! The doors to the inn burst open and a group of pokemon, including Neo, hurried in, bearing a sickly-looking Mightyena wrapped in sheets. They brought him over to the fire, and Neo began trying to help him by giving the poor creature mashed up bits of berries. Oran, by the color.

“Come on Lucied…” He said to the Mightyena, staying by his side, “I know you, you wouldn’t let a little cold stop you now…”

"Good Lord!" I exclaimed upon seeing the Mightyena better. He wasn't just sickly looking...

"It looks as though he's been frozen for a week!" Zhunjai said, pretty much summing up my thoughts.

We hurried over to the prone form. "Neo, what happened here?!" I asked calmly.

[Knightblazer]

‘Swellow’s Tail’ Inn
Lesalas City
DARK Territory

“…you promised…”

Thos two words rang in my head as I slowly stirred into reality. My eyes still closed, I tried to move my paws, but found them weighed down by some heavy air. I felt someone trying to feed me something sweet… refreshing, but only a bit went down. Nevertheless… it seemed to help me…

“Come on Lucied…” came a familiar voice, “I know you, you wouldn’t let a little cold stop you now…”

Who was that? …Ifrit…?

I wanted to open my eyes to see him, but then a new voice that I had never heard before seemed to question, “Neo, what happened here?”

…Neo?

I wanted to open my mouth and question the voice, but then yet another new voice spoke up, "Neo. No pokemon is frozen in such a way. He's still stone cold. He's been at the fire for a while now. Something is wrong. I suspect an Aqua agent beat him to the Stone of Winter-- and used it on Lucied."

Stone… Winter… Ifrit… CHIEF!

My eyelids slowly opened, much to everyone’s surprise. I found myself starring at the ceiling at the inn of Lesalas ever-famous ‘Swellow’s Tail’, with the Chief himself looming over my head. “…Chief…” I managed to mumble out from my raw throat, bits of Oran Berry going down as I did so. Soon I began to feel the regenerating effects of the berry. Thank the legendaries for that…

Before anyone could open their mouths, I managed to ground out another string of words, “Aqua… didn’t… get… sto…ne…” I mumbled out weakly. Gods, the battle with that Mist Dragon had taken too much a toll one me. Taking in a pained breath, I choked out the rest of my sentence. “…I… the stone… is… in…side… me…” Just then, I broke into a violent coughing fit, a mouthful of blood expelling from my dry throat. Everyone was by now quite alarmed due to the fact that I had the Stone Of Winter, or I was currently coughing out crimson red liquid from my throat.

Weakly, I turned and licked up the fallen bits of the berries from the floor. Damn, they tasted good. And I was sure I needed all the strength I could muster up.

Knightblazer

OOC: Juat a FYI, the Winter Stone had caused some effects on Lucied. One is that whenever he turns to rely o the stone's power his eyes will switch from red to blue. The skin change however, is permanent now, unless the stone is 'unabsorbed', and he reverts back to normal. But now, he needs some rest. :3 And for a random inspiration, Lucied's head of the squardon 'Wild Geese', a very flexible squad for stand by or backup operations. They all have a basic foundation and knowledge in all four platoons (Windblazers, Pathfinders, Nightwalkers and Tidebreakers, if applicable) The group is about twenty or odd members only. So the 'Wild Geese' are more or less a branched out part of DARK. XD

[Lord Celebi]

Blaze Maze

As we entered the next subfloor of what I've dubbed as the Blaze Maze, it became increasingly hotter. A Blastoise that had accompanied us had been blasting water at us to keep us cool, but much of it was turning into steam, and making it even hotter. We couldn't last much longer in here.

I had my own water reserve inside of me, being a water Pokemon, as long as I didn't use any water attacks, I'd be fine for a few more hours. The fire Pokemon can withstand this heat, and therefore, will also be fine for quite a long time.

The Blastoise probably will be the first to die. So be it. He's only another step on the staircase of power. However many Pokemon I have to step on to obtain the power is irrelevant, because it is bound to be mine. One day, every Pokemon in the region... Including the Legends... will bow their head to me.

Lugia... Ho-Oh... Celebi... Groudon... Rayquaza... Mew... All of them will be my servents. They will all bow... Their power within my hands.

Immediately, it got much hotter in an instant. We had entered a much larger cavern. I heard a cry as a bird swooped down at me, each foot it got closer, the hotter it got. It unleashed a Fire Blast attack at the group.

It now landed in front of me, as clear as daylight.

Moltres...

[Neo Emolga]

Swellow’s Tail Inn, Lesalas
Festival of Feathers Day 2

I didn’t understand what had happened. Meanwhile, no matter how long we kept Lucied by the fire, he still seemed freezing, like it was unnatural.

“Neo,” Landon asked me, seeming really concerned, “What happened here?”

“It’s Lucied…” I told Landon, only wishing I knew what was wrong with him, “I don’t…”

I felt myself fading off at that moment. I needed to stay by his side, no matter what happened…

“Neo.” The Dotaitos told me, looking at the whole situation, “No Pokémon is frozen in such a way. He's still stone cold. He's been at the fire for a while now. Something is wrong. I suspect an Aqua agent beat him to the Stone of Winter-- and used it on Lucied."

“But…” I told the Dotaitos, still feeling terrible about it, “What did we ever do to them? We never attacked them once!”

Still, I figured that trusting in the sanity of maniacs that murder their own kin was simply out of the question. I could feel that a war would soon erupt, simply because I knew there were some out there… that were ceaselessly greedy…

And then, Lucied’s eyes opened. For a moment, I was in shock, but I wasn’t sure what this meant…

“Lucied…” I told him, wondering if he was going to pull through this or not…

“…Chief…” He managed to gasp out.

“Lucied, stay with me…” I told him, knowing I had to help him through this, “Whatever you do, don’t close your eyes…”

He was swallowing the Oran Berry pieces, and that was good. If he could do that, then I knew he was going to make it.

“Aqua… didn’t… get… sto…ne…” He mumbled, trying to speak, “…I… the stone… is… in…side… me…”

We were totally shocked. Lucied had gotten the Stone of Winter!? However, I realized he must have gone through the same kind of hell I had to endure to get the Stone of Summer. No wonder his body was so cold. I couldn’t imagine what he had to go through…

It was then that he had coughed up some blood, and I couldn’t help but wince at the sight of it. However, Lucied then began to eat the remainder of the Oran Berries we had given him. He was weak, but in time, I knew he would recover. Man, I knew he was strong, and this was sheer proof of that…

“Lucied, you did great…” I told him, staying by his side, “I… can’t even begin to imagine how difficult it was to get to it. I can tell you, finding the Stone of Summer was no easy task. I… I haven’t even had the chance to tell anyone about it…”

I was glad to know it was Lucied who had the Stone of Winter now, and not Team Aqua…

[Knightblazer]

‘Swellow’s Tail’ Inn
Lesalas City
DARK Territory

The shock on the Chief’s face was a bit… surprising, to put it mildly. Heck, if anyone drew it out and sold it, they would be filthy rich. In a manner of sense, of course. Then again, he was a hero; I doubt anyone who like to do that anyways. Well, anyone but me, that is.

“Lucied, you did great…” he assured me, “I… can’t even begin to imagine how difficult it was to get to it. I can tell you, finding the Stone of Summer was no easy task. I… I haven’t even had the chance to tell anyone about it…”

Undeniably, my eyes a bit at the mention that the Chief got the Stone Of Summer. I… had never knew the entire time… damn me and my recon… and that Winter Maze… But still, that meant that DARK had two of the four legendary stones now. The feeling passing through me then was… melancholic. Now… the others… would think twice; heck, thrice before attacking us, now that we had possession of two stones. Although I wasn’t sure if I could do it… but still, I had to try, to protect Chief… the Wild Geese… and the others I cherished…

“Looks like… you had… fun too… Chief…” I tried to joke and lighten the gloom atmosphere, but was rewarded with another mouthful of blood. Luckily it wasn’t as much as before. Seemed that the Oran Berries were doing their job well… mentally, I thanked the legends once again… and for Chief, too…

The Chief wanted to say something, but I cut him short. “Chief…” I started weakly, my voice getting better with each passing second, “Did you know… that Aqua… they…” I paused for a moment, remembering the sights and sounds I saw there, “The rumors are true… they do kill their… kin… and then… just dump… dump… around Mt… Freeze and Frosty… Forest…” Another pause. “I saw… saw… them… dragging… a Hitmontop… dead, it was… I could smell… death…” I took in a deep breath, letting the warm air soothe me for a moment then…

“What… about… the Wild Geese…?” I asked the Chief about my platoon… after all, I had been missing from there for quite sometime… it was lucky Leon was there to lead the team…

Knightblazer

[Neo Emolga]

Swellow’s Tail Inn, Lesalas
Festival of Feathers Day 2

Lucied was looking better. Still weak, but I figured some rest would really go a long way…

“Looks like… you had… fun too… Chief…” Lucied told me, still bleeding from the mouth.

As bad as it was, the Oran Berries were taking their effect, which was actually a good thing.

“Chief…” Lucied began again, “Did you know… that Aqua… they…”

He was still trying to speak, and the rest of us kept quiet.

“The rumors are true… they do kill their… kin… and then… just dump… dump… around Mt… Freeze and Frosty… Forest…” He told us before pausing. “I saw… saw… them… dragging… a Hitmontop… dead, it was… I could smell… death…”

“I’m…” I told him, really not surprised our enemy was sadistic enough to kill their own, “I’m not surprised. Lucied, Team Aqua knows nothing. Give it some time, and before long, they may be their own end. But… if they even so think of trying to intrude on our territory, we won’t show them any mercy.”

Still, how could anyone kill their own faithful and supportive followers? Regardless, no matter what, it would only be a matter of time before they would find rebels within their own clan, and it would be their own demise.”

“What… about… the Wild Geese…?” Lucied asked me, wondering about his platoon.

“Lucied, they’re fine.” Leon told him on my behalf, standing by his side, “We did become separated and we sent out several rescue teams to find you. They managed to find Darath and Narlock, you were the only one that was missing. However, our teams were stopped at Frosty Forest because of heavy Team Aqua activity. They couldn’t go any further, it was too dangerous…”

Still, at least Lucied managed to get back safe. There were too many Team Aqua forces in the north, and with insane and tyrannical leaders, we needed to be careful. It was a good thing we kept in close contact with the other cities…

“Lucied, I’m amazed you managed to get the Stone of Winter,” I told him, very proud that he managed to find another stone for DARK, “As for me, yeah, I got the Stone of Summer all right.” I told him, pointing to my wings, “Hey, why do think I have these, and I’m wearing this crazy feather wreath? This whole festival thing is just for this occasion.”

Still, I figured it was better if he could rest now. I could see it in his eyes that he had gone though a long and painful tribulation. He would heal in time, but for now, he needed rest.

“Lucied, just relax now.” I told him, showing him a little smile, “Get a good night sleep, and let the Oran Berries do their thing. You will feel much better in the morning, trust me…”

I was glad he made it home though. With the bitter cold, Team Aqua on his tail and what I figured would be the most unimaginable threats waiting where the Stone of Winter was resting, we needed to give him time.

“Come on, Chief.” Leon told me, “I’ll stay with him, everyone’s waiting for you outside…”

“All right.” I told Leon, standing up again, “Take good care of him. Lucied means a lot to DARK… and to me.”

After that, I headed to the door, and then took one last look at Lucied before stepping outside. I knew some undisturbed sleep would really help him now…

[TVTMaster]

OOC: Um, Neo? I was the one who suggested Aqua having the Stone of Winter, XD. Not Chaz.

Swellow's Tail Inn, Lesalas

"But... what did we ever do to them? We never attacked them once!" The Mightyena opened his eyes. "Lucied!" "Chief..." He paused, gulping Oran berries. "Aqua... didn't get... sto... ne. I... the stone... is... inside me..." Eretan stood stock still, as Cub started abtting his head. He stood oblivious to conversation. The Stone of Winter. The artifact known as a lost possesion to the Wintervale Torraki clan. Right there, in the hands of an ally. But Eretan wanted it. Wanted it bad. He dashed out the door, with his team following.

"I've got to get that Stone of Spring! I must have that stone of Winter! It is everything to me!" Eretan dashed for the city gates, thinking of nothing but obtaining a bargaining chip. A big one. Rowan kept up easily, carrying Cub, as Pin'orcen struggled behind, trying to catch up. Eretan continued to run for Solar Cave. Target number one for the Spring Stone. If Lucied could find a way to give up the stone, Eretan would be the idol of his family. A true Wintervale Dotaitos. He continued dashing, allowing some time for the team to climb on.

Solar Cave, Lesalas

The cave. A place illuminated by the sun's energy, directed through subterranean channels. It was the opposite of Thunder Cave, full of plant life and psychic pokemon. Battling to no avail, Eretan's party went deeper into the cave. And only a dead end remained. "NO! I need that stone!" "Calm down. There's probably a hidden passage somewhere." Pin'orcen uncovered a carving, bathed in a blue glow. It depicted a waterfall, falling into a deep pit, where at the bottom lay a large flower symbol. "I TOLD YOU! We should have gone to Waterfall Pond first!" He blew bubbles, uncovering another carving.

This depicted a broken world, with the same flower at the bottom. It also showed a team of pokemon on the stone, being viciously attacked by a monster. "Well, that's a cheerful picture. Let's all go down into the hole of death, people! It'll be so fun to get killed by an impokemon monster!" That was Cub. "Rowan, what do you think?" The pokemon was nowhere to be seen. Or heard, which was somewhat of a relief. "Hey. Looking for this?" A Claydol emerged from behind a large shelf, holding in his power Rowan, struggling. His mouth was gagged. "Oh, hey, thanks! Big help, could we get out now?"

"No." The Claydol signaled a Metang and a Lunatone. They raised Pin'orcen and Cub into the air, smashing them into the wall. "Hey! That was mean! Tricking us by helping us and then beating up my friends!" Eretan lunged for the pokemon, who all rose into the air. Cub groaned. "Great. Leviatate. How convenient." Pin'orcen broke free, rasing his claw, and beginning his sig move. "Metal Crabhammer!" He jumped of the wall, smashing the Lunatone and chipping parts off.

"Die!" The Metang pulled parts from the wall, creating a mist of sharp metal, which flew for Pin'orcen. The Claydol spoke. "Your kind are not welcome. We are the secondary protectors of Spring. You will not leave with the knowledge of the Water System." "Water System?" "I answer no more questions. Die." He fired off a pulse into the ground, raising a wall of stone. "Rrgh!" Eretan let off a leaf barrage, which stuck into the mud wall. "You will not leave this place alive."

[Knightblazer]

‘Swellow’s Tail’ Inn
Lesalas City
DARK Territory

“Lucied, they’re fine.” Leon replied, “We did become separated and we sent out several rescue teams to find you. They managed to find Darath and Narlock; you were the only one that was missing. However, our teams were stopped at Frosty Forest because of heavy Team Aqua activity. They couldn’t go any further, it was too dangerous…”

If I could, I would have heaved a huge sigh of relief. Darath was one of the best informers around, while Narlock… well, if he got lost, Javas would kill me… I couldn’t blame him; anyone would go berserk if they discovered their own son was missing…

“Lucied, I’m amazed you managed to get the Stone of Winter,” Chief told me, the tone in his voice glad and… proud? “As for me, yeah, I got the Stone of Summer all right,” he added, pointing to the pair of golden, angelic wings that I had just noticed sprouted from his back. “Hey, why do think I have these, and I’m wearing this crazy feather wreath? This whole festival thing is just for this occasion.”

I would have grinned then. The Chief, after all, was never a guy for celebrations. Always calm and impartial, he was. Only Ho Oh knew how he managed to survive with all the feathers and presents upon him at that time…

“Lucied, just relax now,” he told me with a small smile, “Get a good night sleep, and let the Oran Berries do their thing. You will feel much better in the morning, trust me…”

“Come on, Chief,” Leon interrupted politely, “I’ll stay with him, everyone’s waiting for you outside…”

“All right,” he replied as he got up, “Take good care of him. Lucied means a lot to DARK… and to me.”

I was touched by those words Chief said. Truly, I was. So long in my life here, and this was the first time someone said that I meant something. All my entire life, I was forced to live in solitude and the pain of being alone. Losing Ifrit hurt a lot, but now knowing that there was another who cared, truly cherished me… the feeling was truly special… and I knew I would keep that feeling… all my life…

A minute or so after the Chief had left, my platoon – the Wild Geese, came barging in through the door, startling Leon as well as the other Pikachu I noticed at the corner of my eye. I grinned weakly as I caught sight of them heading towards me. Chief must have told them about me…

“Hey, Captain!” greeted the ruffled-looking Linoone in front of the entire gang. “We all heard from the Chiefster that you were here. How did the recon go?” he asked.

“Frosty,” I replied with a grim smile.

Leon sighed deeply, a habit that he unfortunately picked up from me. “Good grief, Larmo,” started the Grovyle, “have you ever heard of the term, ‘Keep Quiet’?”

Larmo shrugged, the red and black bandana around his neck shaking as he did so. “Heh, nope. Never heard of it,” he replied with a playful grin. The answer only made Leon roll his eyes and sigh again. Man, I should really stop passing down my bad habits. “Anyway,” the Linoone continued, his tone serious now. “Is what the Chief said true? That you got the Stone Of Winter?” he asked. I nodded in response. The entire squad burst into roars of joy when I did so, once again startling the occupants there. Most of them shrugged upon seeing us. The Wild Geese were better known throughout the city than the other platoons put together, after all… the ‘merrymakers’, we were known as in the public.

“Blousers!” exclaimed out the Umberon beside Larmo, who had the bandana around his head, “that means we have two of em’ now!” Another roar of joy came through the group as they did. Leon sighed yet again as I smiled towards myself. We were always a tad over reactive…

“Anyway…” the Grovyle cut short of the joyous roars, “I’m seeing a few of us not accounted for. Where’s Jagger and Carve? I don’t see them.”

“They’re at main pool, Monsieur Leon,” replied another of the Geese, Artemis the Cubone. “The innlady didn’t want them in. Said something about ‘suspicious characters’.”

The Grovyle beside me sighed yet again, rolling his eyes. “I told them to put on the bandana… look now what happens…”

“Relax, Leon…”I consoled him, my voice now steady, “You can’t blame them… those bandanas ain’t really water resistant or anything…”

Another sigh escaped from Leon before turning back to the gang. “Alright then…” he started, “right now Captain needs his rest after getting; that Stone, so meet at the Main Pool first thing tomorrow and then we’ll do a roll call. Dismissed!” With a salute, Larmo, Artemis and the rest of the Wild Geese headed back to their bunks.

“Looks like news travel fast, huh?” I joked.

The Grovyle beside me shrugged absent-mindly. “I don’t really bother,” he said as a response, “but now, you need rest; the Geese can’t fly without you.”

With an assuring smile, I closed my eyes and soon let sleep overtake me.

Knightblazer

[Neo Emolga]

Lesalas, DARK Territory
Festival of Feathers Day 2

Lucied was soon paid a visit by the rest of the Wild Geese squad as well. They were really happy about what he was able to accomplish out there, but the two of us were the only ones that really knew how difficult retrieving the Season Stones were.

With that in mind, Delta Green didn’t waste another second, and headed out to find the Stone of Spring. That left three of the stones in good hands. However, I wasn’t sure where the Stone of Autumn was and I wasn’t even sure where to begin looking. I was willing to offer Delta Green more help and supplies, but they headed off very quickly. I knew they overheard our conversation regarding Team Aqua and how they brutally murder their own. I wasn’t surprised they left in a hurry though, we needed to make sure these stones were out of Team Aqua’s hands…

As for me, when I stepped outside, I had noticed the celebration stopped for a moment, with many onlookers wondering what had happened to Lucied. A young Charmander had walked up to me and looked me in the eyes with interest…

“Chief…?” He asked me, “What happened to Lucied? We’re all wondering…”

“Lucied is going to be fine.” I told him with a smile, “He’s been through a lot of tribulations, but yes… he did find the Stone of Winter.”

They were shocked… but a delighted kind of shock. Many of them tried to look inside the inn through the windows, but they knew Lucied needed rest. Besides, the Wild Geese squad was with him now. I could have laughed though. Looks like I wasn’t the only one getting attention…

Meanwhile, it was late, and most of the citizens were heading off to sleep, while some prepared for the third and final day of the festival. Honestly, as crazy as it was, I was really enjoying it. Usually I wasn’t big on parties and celebrations, but this really reminded me of how much fun they can be.

I headed back to my palace for a good night’s sleep. I still couldn’t believe that pile of presents. It was going to take me weeks to open them all up…

I looked and realized they even changed the bed. I nearly sighed and laughed, I didn’t need a bed that big. A Snorlax could sleep comfortably in that bed, and here I was, just a small Pikachu. Regardless, I hopped right in, and it was incredibly comfortable, like I was resting on a sea of softness. I found it quite easy to go to sleep…

[TVTMaster]

Dang it... I had the perfect post up, and I hit Ctrl-W by accident and zapped it away. Here's some cliffnotes, but rest assured I won't be doing this again. Stupid shift being right next to Ctrl. I don't see why Microsoft needed that when you could very well just click the X in the corner.

-Claydol lifted Eretan, who managed to use Leaf Storm once over the wall.
-Losing his grip, Claydol let the wall go, and started using the leaves as a shield.
-Eretan fired more leaves, eventually weighing it down enough to use Earthquake.
-The Claydol was smashed to bits, letting out a psychic wail, then its pieces tried to rebuild themselves.
-Lunatone used Cosmic Power to become near invincible.
-Pin'orcen couldn't get at Lunatone, but Rowan used Giga Drain and brought down CP and the walls.
-Pin'orcen smashed Lunatone to bits, and it again tried to horrifyingly recompose itself before dying.
-Metang got real angry.
-It used Steel Rush to fire off more tiny shards, which hurt the paty a lot.
-Cub zapped it, and it fell to earth, losing its manetic orientation to to electrical overload (it used 1337speak when dying)
-Eretan used EQ to destroy it.
-Rowan barfed.
-Eretan left for Lesalas, and to Waterfall Pond.
-Current location: South Lesalas Gates.

[Finch]

OOC: Well, this is just like ToD version 1. I'm bored. I can't make it to my PC for like.. 2 days and I've already lost a stone I was working for.

Good job on shutting me down, Knightblazer, but I still feel cheated. I'm taking an indefinite break from the ToD. Just call me MIA.

Oh, EDIT: I'll just point out quickly that KB can't consume the Winter Stone's full power, since I have a dagger which contains around 10%

[Shen]

Lesalas, Festival Day 2

So, the Stone of Winter had been found, and by a DARK member, no less. I thought for sure Aqua would get it. It's good to know that we've got two stones in good hands. I suspected that Neo'd let Team Delta Green get the Stone of Spring, from what I heard earlier...but as for the Stone of Autumn...

"It's gotta be in Mt. Blaze." Zhinaji pointed to that spot on her map. "Also in Aqua territory..."

We were back in our room, discussing what had transpired. Cameron and I exchanged worried looks.

"We have little chance to stop Aqua if they've already switched targets..." Cameron said quietly. "But it's still a chance that DARK must take."

"Neo's probably asleep by now, after what happened today..." I thought a little. "We're probably the only ones here who've thought about this." I lowered my head. "We might have to go there ourselves."

"Landon, are you crazy?!" Cameron said, "Not only are inexperienced warriors, but we'd be marching straight into Aqua territory. We'd be slaughtered!"

"That's a chance we're going to have to take!" I shot angrily at the Plusle. He lowered his ears. "Look, I know that we're new here, but we've got to look out for the Team. We've gotta try."

I quickly got out a piece of paper and wrote a letter to any happening to read it. It told them where we were, and our suspicions. If I was breaking DARK warrior code, I didn't much care. The safety of the Team and all citizens here was more important.

"Zhunjai," I said, after Cameron had walked out the door, "I...I want you to stay behind."

"What?!" She said angrily, "Why?!"

"Because...let's face it, we've got a good chance to get killed. I don't want to lose you, so please, stay behind."

"I will not! Landon, I need to come with you. We need to support each other. We can only survive if we rely-"

"Please, Zhunjai, no!" I cried, tears springing to my eyes. "I can't lose you...I..." The time had come to confess my feelings. "I love you..."

Zhunjai was surprised by my statement. She looked like she was trying to speak, but no words came out.

"This is why I can't lose you...you're all I have left..." I turned to walk out. "I hope you can understand..."

Instantly, I felt her strong, rocky arms close around me in a deathgrip. ""I do understand, Landon." She said, "But, you need to understand that is why I have to come with you! Because I love you!"

I turned around and embraced her, hoping this moment would never pass. Now, we both knew each other's feelings. The bond between us grew closer together. Finally, I understood. "Yes, Zhunjai, I understand...You...should come with us."

She looked up into my face, tears filled with tears of happiness. "Th-thank you..." She stammered.

We held each other for a long time before we let go. Making a few revisions to the letter, we blew out the candle and walked out of the room. We made our way to the front desk.

I held out the letter to the innkeeper. "If anyone asks for us, show them this letter, would you?"

The Sudowoodo took the letter and nodded. "Going out for awhile?" she asked.

I turned around and smiled. "You could say that..." And with that, we exited.

We made our way to the western gate to Lesalas, where we met up with Cameron. He'd been at the shop, gathering Berries, herbs, food, and a couple of other things we'd need on our trip, including an Escape Orb.

"Rather subdued night, for only the second day of the celebration, huh?" He smirked. Then he spotted Zhunjai. "She's coming?"

"Yeah...I realized that we all need to suport each other, if we're going to make it through this night." I said. I smiled at Zhunjai. "So, all of us are going."

He shrugged. "Whatever..."

We properly packed the supplies, and exited the gates, turning north, toward Aqua territory...

Wilderness, North of Lesalas

We had only been going a few minutes when we had come upon a paradox. How were we supposed to get to Mt. Blaze quick enough?!

"This is great...and we don't even have any way to ask for transportation, what with it being so late at night..." Cameron said.

"Maybe I can help..." Said a voice in the trees above us. We looked up in alarm.

The creature who had spoken to us was a Noctowl, sitting on a branch and gazing down upon us with wise eyes.

"And...how might that be?" I asked, cautious not to anger the great predator.

"Well, my companions and myself have been watching your progress and listening to what you were doing." He explained. "You see, my family and friends were driven out of northern lands by those horrible Aquas. We are extremely indignant at them for this!" He ruffled up his feathers in anger. "So, we've decided to help you solve your plight."

"Sounds great!" I said, smiling. "Whatever you can do to help, please, go right ahead."

He gave one loud screech, and he floated down casually, along with another Noctowl and a Pidgeotto. They all stood with their backs to us. "Get on."

We hesitated, but I decided what would happen would happen, and got on the Pidgeotto's back. Zhunjai and Cameron followed suit onto the Noctowls' backs.

"Everybody ready?" the Noctowl asked. We all nodded. "Then hang on tightly. We'll need to fly pretty fast to avoid your detection by Aqua patrols." Instantly, he extended his wings and silently took to the air. The other Noctowl and the Pidgeotto quickly followed.

When we burst through the canopy of trees, I looked around, and the sights exhilerated. So, this would be what it felt like to fly on a mount as a Windblazer. I gained instant respect for all avian pokemon, and what it would mean to fly with these sacred beings.

The cold air grew colder as we sped to the north, whipping cruelly at our faces. I squinted my eyes against the torrent of air, tears being squeezed out of them by the pressure around me.

In less than a half hour, a great dark shape, with fire at the top, rose in front of us. "Mt. Blaze..." I whispered.

The avians dropped quickly, so the three of us were forced to grab hold of feathers in the threat of falling off. In a matter of seconds, they had gracefully landed.

"Inside, you'll meet a Wartortle waiting for you." the Noctowl said informitavely as we jumped off their backs. "He will probably be your only hope for survival in that heat."

"Thank you, sir." I said, bowing respectively.

"The name's Nightstalker." He said before extending his wings and lifting off. "We await your successful return!" At that, he left to the skies, the other two following him.

We turned around to find a tunnel bored into the earth at the base of the volcano. We entered quickly, silently, anxious to stop Aqua at all costs.

[Knightblazer]

[Swellow’s Tail Inn]::[Lesalas City]::[DARK Territory]
Festival Of Feathers - Day Three

I awoke the next morning to find myself tucked neatly under a blanket over the couch I was lying on now, with Leon snoozing, his back leaning against the side of the couch. Gingerly, I got out from the couch, not wanting to awake my Grovyle companion. But Leon, being the ever-light sleeper, was awakened by my footsteps as I stumbled out of bed. Tripping but safely caught by the Grovyle.

“Don’t push yourself, Captain,” he said as he supported me up. “From what I can tell, you’ve been through Hell and back, eh?” he joked lightly.

“That about sums up that bloody situation,” I replied with a small grin, while Leon groaned about my usage of the word ‘bloody’. However, he didn’t say anything, but supported me as we both made our way to the Main Pool.

The Main Pool was actually a spot within the main square, near the Chief’s new err… palace, where the water types would surface from and see the festivals (whenever there was one), or when one just wanted to chill out. Literally, at times. It was there where all the other twenty or so odd members of the Wild Geese hang usually, chatting to each other or just having some ‘in’ time. Larmo spotted the both of us heading there, and quickly yelled at the others for our presence. All the Geese immediately formed six groups of four and saluted us, with a Sneasel waiting at the front of the others, a slight smirk on his face.

“Looks like you’re going to have a festival yourself…” he muttered in amusement as he led me to the edge of the pool, where a Sharpedo, Carvahana and Golduck saluted me as I sat there. With a nod towards them I turned towards the rest of the Geese and said, “All right, fellas… anything happened while I was at Freezapoint?”

The group chuckled as they heard my joke, but then died down soon as Javas the Sneasel walked towards me, a list in his hand and the Meowth charm draped around his neck glistening under the sun. “Well, Leon and I decided to put the Geese into seven separate rescue teams for easy calling; it’ll be hard if we have to pick every time we go on a mission.”

“Good point,” I agreed, nodding. “Call out the roster then.” Javas gave a curt nod as he walked up towards the Geese and looking from his list, began calling out the separate teams.

“First up,” he announced, “Sonic, Blade, Jacques and Kaze.” As Javas called out the names, a Sandslash, Scyther, an Umberon and a Rukario stepped out from the formation and walked towards the Sneasel. “All present and accounted for, sir!” They went, and Javas nodded. “You four shall be known as Enigma, with Sonic as the leader. Understood?”

“Yes sir!” the foursome simultaneously responded with a salute before heading back, forming a new line. “Second; Rei, Shriek, Solonn and Leviathan!” said Javas. A Manetric, Skarmory, Galie emerged from the ranks, while the Golduck clambered out of the pool and joined the other three. Javas dubbed them as ‘Ookami’ and following that, a few more teams were called until the shuffling was over and Javas handed me the list. I looked at it.

Wild Geese Platoon

Head Honcho
Lucied [Mightyena]

Sub Leader
Leon [Grovyle]

Teams

Usukairi
Leader: Lucied [Mightyena]
Leon [Grovyle], Javas [Sneasel]

Kage
Leader: Azeon [Pikachu]
Twilight [Murkrow], Zaber [Absol], Jagger [Sharpedo]

Tsukuyomi
Leader: Larmo [Linoone]
Carve [Carvahana], Loki [Combusken], Saital [Pidgeotto]

Zero
Leader: Darath [Sableye]
Shade [Gengar], Zakum [Crobat], Luke [Flygon]

Reppuu
Leader: Narlock [Sneasel]
Artemis [Cubone], Ruby [Kirlia], Sol [Shuppet]

Ookami
Leader: Rei [Manetric]
Shriek [Skarmory], Solonn [Galie], Leviathan [Golduck]

Enigma
Leader: Sonic [Sandslash]
Blade [Scyther], Jacques [Umberon], Kaze [Rukario]

“Why does my team only include you and Leon?” I questioned the Sneasel.

Javas gave a smirk as he answered, “Well… we won’t be on as much as the others, so I’d figured we group ourselves together and let the others work. You are currently out of action, and Leon does need to take care of you. I’ll need to settle a few things at the bunk as well.”

I shrugged. “Fine with me,” I replied.

Knightblazer

[Shen]

Mt. Blaze
Tunnels under Mt. Blaze, sublevels 1-3

The heat became instantly evident as we entered the tunnel. Mt. Blaze was effectively named...

"Glad to see you two finally got together." Cameron said happily, after discovering me and Zhunjai holding hands. "You two have been too shy around one another."

"Thanks, Cameron." Zhunjai smiled as we continued along this path, en route towards what may be certain death.

The tunnel was tight, barely enough room for a Machoke to walk through here. We, as smaller pokemon, managed easily. The tunnel continued long into the darkness. I charged a little of my electrical power into my paw to have a makeshift torch, but we still couldn't see far. Soon, however, we saw we weren't the only ones in this burning tunnel.

The light from my palm fell on two bluish feet. They belonged to the Wartortle mentioned to us earlier. She looked strangely familiar...

"Well, it's about time..." She said impatiently. Nonetheless, she was smiling. "If I hadn't been living in this environment for some time, I might've died by now."

Zhunjai and Cameron went forward to greet her, but I just went around and around her, checking every detail. She couldn't be...

"Umm...who's your wierd little friend?" She asked, pointing at me as I went by a third time.

"Landon, what are you doing?" Zhunjai asked indignantly.

Finally, I looked up into her face. "...Trais?" I asked shyly.

She was taked aback a second, but began to laugh the next. "Nah, the name's Yanira. However, Trais is my twin sister's name." She blinked and frowned. "Why? Do you know her? I thought she was up at the canyon."

"I knew it was something like that." Landon said triumphantly. "Yeah, I knew Trais. She was my dad's best friend."

"So, you must be Landon. Nice to meet you. Tell me, how's my sister doing?"

I lowered my ears sadly when I heard her ask this. She looked questioningly at me. "What's happened?"

"I'll...tell you as we go..." I said, motioning Zhunjai and Cameron to go ahead. Zhunjai nodded, and she and Cameron walked ahead of me and Yanira as I told her of her sister's fate.

We had reached a cavern filled with a lava river when I finished. She looked sadly ahead. "So, that's that, huh? I'm the last living member of my family."

"I'm really sorry..." I began.

"No, I'm sorry for what happened to your family. That was brutal, and those beasts deserved to die." She looked up, then smiled at me. "At least I know that she went down like she wanted; defending the ones she cherished."

We found a tunnel leading under the lava river into another series of tunnels, wondering how they got here.

We had walked around a bend in the tunnel when we had to duck back for our lives. We flinched as a kanji symbol in flames went passed us. "Fire Blast..." I whispered, and dared a peek around the corner. I gasped at the sight, and told the others to keep as silent as possible.

Moltres was in a large cavern, flying at the real threat to us. I noticed that we weren't the only pokemon Team who'd decided to search here for the Stone of Autumn. My breath caught in my throat.

Aqua members were in the cavern, being harrassed by the bird of Fire.

We back-tracked quietly, and found another tunnel branching off this larger one. Hoping this would lead us to the Stone before Aqua could get there, we hurried away. I really hope we weren't seen...

[Lord Celebi]

Blaze Maze

Moltres swooped down and grabbed a poor Kadabra in its talons and dropped it from a high altitude. The Kadabra dropped, and then splattered in a blaze of blood on the floor. The leftover blood immediately evaporated into a bloody steam as it hit the hot floor.

I wiped some of the blood off of myself and poised my poisoned blades for attack. I used Extremespeed and ran up the cave wall, jumped off, and landed on the Fire Bird. I swiped at its neck and jumped off. Blood rained from the sky as I landed on the ground, bracing for impact. I only recieved minor injuries when I hit, because of my hard shell armor.

Moltres cried as more blood spurted out of its neck. It immediately began tothrow flames all over the place, toasting several Grovyle in the squad. It then dove at my again, and launched a Fire Blast. I fired a Hydro Pump and turned the Fire Blast into steam. With the veil of steam, I used another Extremespeed to get away from Moltres while it tried to dive at me.

Moltres his the cave wall, sending rubble falling down from the roof. A large rock hit a Tropius, crushing it, and sending blood and Tropius parts flying all over the cave. Moltres quickly recovered, although weaker than before. It tried diving at me again, this time, igniting itself in a searing flame, so even if its mouth missed, I'd still be burnt.

Ouch...

[Neo Emolga]

OOC: Lovely!

Lesalas, DARK Territory
Festival of Feathers Day 3

The final day of the festival had arrived. As silly as it sounded, I was going to miss it when it was all done. Meanwhile, I hadn’t even opened a quarter of all the gifts I had been given…

As for activities, many of the town’s citizens were up early… either that, or they were up all night still celebrating. I… could never do that, I would be too tired and groggy to do anything the next day.

Meanwhile, I couldn’t help but think about Lucied. Chances were he was still resting, so I decided to leave him be, and let him wake up when he felt he had gotten enough rest. I trusted Leon was already taking care of him as well.

As for me, the attention was everywhere. Already, plans were being made to put a large stone fountain in the center of the massive courtyard, depicting a stone statue of a Pikachu with wings… which would represent me. This… I had to say, was something that I couldn’t wait to see done. This would be the first time a statue was made in my likeness…

When it came to Delta Green, I was unsure of how well their progress was going. They had left about the same time Lucied had been found, and when all that happened, I totally lost track of what they were doing. I could only wish them luck in trying to find the Stone of Spring. At least, if it really was in Solar Cave, they would be protected in our homeland… as apposed to heading right into vicious and dangerous Team Aqua territory…

Regardless, I was using this time to relax, enjoy the festivities, and to take a break from all the training. Tomorrow, we would begin again under a new light…

[TVTMaster]

OOC: Finally! Someone bumped 4stones! I'll be going for the stone now. Here's a few spoilers.
Omg, Ren overprepared. He'll accidentally disrupt the delicate balance once Eretan has the stone, and the ecosystem, filled with underdeveloped fakemon. (None of them will be played or permanent, they'll simply swarm together into the Swarm Dragon, which will be able to seperate into smaller entities at will.)

En Route to Waterfall Pond, Seratine

Eretan had passed through the city of Lesalas, recieving no greeting or aid. Not a problem, as Cub had quite the stash up in Eretan's tree, explaining the extra weight he had been feeling. Solar Cave had not been a disappointment. The runes at the end told him of a delicate balance, of a cave deep underground, in a wide shaft. Getting the stone meant going through silently, keeping in balance the ecosystem there. And Eretan would have a hard time. "Pin'orcen... this cave... I could not enter it well. I'm too big. I'd destroy everything at the slightest touch."

"Too bad. Hey, you heard of this new invention? It's called a Detect Band. It's only been around for a good half a century." Eretan took the shimmering scarf, and wrapped it around a tree branch. Immediately, his body felt strange. the trees he had been banging in to started repelling him, until the scarf began to squeeze him. A strange buzzing went through him, making him shrink at a slow rate. Rowan watched the shimmering in awe, yakking about why he wanted one and ignoring Pin'orcen's protests about his lack of a second one. Soon Eretan was small enough to maneuver without striking branches.

The scarf would tingle now and then, and jerk parts of Eretan's body around to avoid low branches and the like. "Mind if I take this off? I--" He jerked again as a Rattata scurried by. "--can't take all this random jerking." "Fine, just keep it with you." And then Waterfall Pond came into view. Surrounded by a platoon of Pathfinders. Tents lay everywhere, surrounding the pond. A familiar Graveler stood at a high rock, giving orders to various pokemon. Obviously Neo had them covered better than they would like.

[Neo Emolga]

Lesalas, DARK Territory
Festival of Feathers Day 3

We had nearly drained the last of our supply of Oran Cider even before noon had arrived. Apple juice seemed like it was so degrading to come down to after enjoying Oran Cider for the past few days, but they were already preparing for the inevitable.

And more gifts, this time from Pokémon that had been coming from South Bend and Seratine. I couldn’t make the promise that I would get to all of these before the day was done, as I still had plenty of stuff from even just the first day that hadn’t been opened yet. I still had no idea what I was going to do with all this…

I had lost track of Landon though, I hadn’t seen him after last night. However, considering it was so crowded and I easily got distracted from others dragging me into other crazy activities, it was too easy to lose track of time. And again, it continued on with the dancing and music, with three others getting “blessed” because I had a dance with them. I still thought it was pretty silly though, but I guess it would be good for laughs throughout the years.

However, every now and then, I kept thinking about Team Aqua. Something inside of me kept telling me that if we didn’t go after them, they were going to go after us and they were going to create war and chaos in our own cities. I found it impossible to trust in the sanity and competence of those that destroy their own kind. If they did that to themselves, I felt they would do it to us. Tomorrow, I decided that we would begin by liberating cities in the north, starting with Terenas. They needed to see there was another life besides following Team Aqua. Never, never once in DARK would we even consider taking the life of one of our own. I felt they had been blinded by this for the longest time, seeing nothing but this darkness over them that there was no alternative. Meanwhile, if we didn’t act soon, it would be on our homeland, and I didn’t want that.

I made it clear. Tomorrow, I wasn’t going to sit back and wait for them to open up with all their terror unleashed upon us while we weren’t prepared…

[TVTMaster]

OOC: Aqua's gonna be stopped as soon as I get the stone of Spring, as Delta Green hates Aqua just as much as DARK. BTW, is trading stones impossible, or would it require detailed posts of "researching" how to remove the stone?

Waterfall Pond, Seratine

Ren was at the top of a large stone, that jutted up out of the ground at a 45 degree angle, ending in a flat top. Pathfinders scurried around below, making preparations for a supported journey into the pit. Eretan and his company made their way towards the high rock, skirting around surprised pokemon. Or stepping on. The latter being more frequent. Ren called down to Eretan. "You! Okay, you may have noticed this whole backup operation. Come up here and I'll lay everything out." Eretan proceeded for the rock, climbing the smooth surface as Pin'Orcen used Metal Claw to provide traction. Ren and the Houndoom stood at the top, over a pattern of clay pieces.

"Take a look-see. We've had our Diglett volunteers and some Sandslash men working full time to find fissure faults. We plan to collapse the ground in a sensitive area. Here's the Quaker positions." Eretan looked at the map. the pieces were arranged in a pattern shaped like a four-petaled flower-- identical to the rune in Solar Cave. "Ren! Don't do it! If we collapse it, the balance we saw in Solar Cave's runes would be broken!" "What balance? And who cares?" "The runes also depicted a shattered cave and a giant monster attacking unfortunate pokemon." "Right. Well what do you suggest we do?" "Where is this map?" Ren pointed at the area in front of the waterfall, which appeared to disappear into the lake rather than splash in one place.

"That's it. I'm going there. We don't need your 'Quakers' to help. I'm sure this'll be easy enough." "You are really an idiot. We set this whole thing up for you to tell us you don't need us. We're gonna stay right here until the thing is done." Eretan sighed, and went down to the waterfall. A pier of earth stood out, nearly reaching the waterfall. Melissa and Gary swam nearby, necking. "Excuse me? Gary? Melissa? Could we have some aid?" They swam over. "Oui, est-ce que require?" "Um..." "Pst! Eretan! I learned this in that school place I used to go to that was cool cool cool cool cool cool! And that means what do you need!" "Right. Um, please redirect the waterfall away from it's normal path. See voo play or something."

The Milotic giggled, and the Gyarados grumbled and began to concentrate. The water parted, and the water level in one, flower shaped patch dropped. Melissa began to attack, and Pin'orcen joined in as the water parted, and a glass path to a hole opened. The hole was about the size big enough for Pin'orcen to squeeze through. "Great. Didn't I have this happen before? No... yes. Rats."

[Knightblazer]

[Central Main Pool]::[Lesalas City]::[DARK Territory]
Festival Of Feathers - Day Three

The team was quickly dispersed soon after a light briefing. The festival was still on, after all, and the teams were assigned on patrol duty. Leon helped me up as I stood, my claves still slightly numb from all the melodrama last night. I could see a couple of the townsfolk staring at me in awe. Perhaps getting the Winter Stone was a bad idea after all… But still, what happened had already happened. Nothing could be undone. The stone was inside me, and that was the bottom line…

“So, Lucied,” started Leon, “What do ya wanna do? We have the day off, after all.”

“Maybe we should see the Chief,” I replied with a small grin. “He has the Stone of Summer after all. We could trade stories for the fun of it.”

“Heh, now that’s a first,” said the Grovyle before both of us headed into the main square. It took us quite a while, but after a few shoves, waiting and lots of searching, we finally found Chief sitting at the edge of the fountain, sipping one of those Oran Ciders. Man, how do they do that? I could hardly stand Oran Ciders…

“Heya, Chief,” I greeted as I slid down to sit beside him. Leon decided it was best to leave the two of us alone, and so he did as he hurried away to grab some of those… Oran Ciders. Burgh. “Anyway, since both of us hold a stone each… maybe we could pass the time by telling how we got em’? I would love to hear the dangers you’ve faced…” I said with a playful grin.

Hopefully, I secretly hoped that the Chief didn’t go through half of what I had to. To let my only true friend die for the name of so-called ‘glory’… it was a total pain in the rear end. It truly was… How I hoped things wouldn’t have to turn out like this, but yet… it had. To kill the ones you love and cherish for peace and harmony… was it worth it?

Knightblazer

[Shen]

OOC: Finally, we got some more posters! We're hopefully going to get active again. Until then...

Tunnels under Mt. Blaze
Sublevel 4

Every now and then, Yanira would blast one of us, excluding Zhunjai of course, with a jet of water to cool us down. Zhunjai, however, seemed to be doing fine on her own, probably because of her ground-type advantage in a place like this. I persisted in walking next to her throughout the small tunnel, being as close to her as I could be. I was glad Zhunjai loved me as much as I loved her.

"Man, does this tunnel ever widen up?" Yanira asked behind us, shaking me out of my own thoughts. "My head's gonna start scraping the cieling any minute now!"

"Ah, cheer up Yanira. It could be worse..." I said to her. "This place could be too small for a Caterpie."

She sighed. "Yeah, you're right. This isn't so bad." Suddenly, she looked up. "And the tunnel is widening, too. It's all good." She smiled, but that soon turned into a gasp.

"What is it?" Zhunjai asked. I was about to ask the same, but my keen hearing soon told me the answer.

"We've got company."

We looked back to see a large group of Magcargo rampaging towards us. Wait...rampaging?!

"Those Magcargo are moving way too fast to be normal!" Cameron yelled before darting ahead. "Everybody run!"

We turned tail and crashed through the tunnel in a feeble effort to get away from those angry fire slugs. They were quicly gaining on us, no matter how much we sped up. Yanira was out in front, which was interesting to a Pikachu like me. No matter, we're gonna be toast if we don't move it!

Suddenly, Zhunjai tripped and collapsed on a small pile of rocks. I saw this and ran back to help her.

"There's no way we'll be able to get away from them if you help me! Just forget me and go!" Zhunjai yelled.

"Your request is falling on deaf ears, Zhunjai." I told her as I pulled her up and got between her and the Magcargo. "Leave this to me."

"Landon..."

My cheeks began to spark fiercly as I tapped into my stored electrical power. I focused on the snails and let loose a powerful Thunder attack.

The lightning ripped through their bodies, causing muscles to burn out, blood to boil, and hearts to explode. Almost as one, they collapsed, never to rise again, in a steaming pile.

"Damn!" Yanira exclaimed as she ran up behind us. "I've never seen a Thunder that powerful!"

I hardly heard her as I stared at that pile of smoldering pokemon. All I could think about was how, without thinking, I had snuffed out their lives. I swore never to kill again without a just cause. So why...

"Let it go, Landon," Zhunjai said as she embraced me. "I know what you're thinking. It was an accident. You barely had time to think."

"But I..." I couldn't bring myself to say anything.

"Aw, just let it go, Landon. They attacked us, I'd say that you had a right enough cause to attack back." Yanira said comfortingly.

I sniffed. "Yeah, I suppose-" I stopped myself. Something about that smell was...intriguing. The air seemed charged with power. "You smell that?" I asked.

Cameron sniffed the air. "What is that?"

Yanira followed suit. "I dunno. I've been this deep before, but that was never here. I wonder what it could be...?"

"Only one way to find out." I said as Zhunjai and I walked toward the source of that mysterious smell. We had walked about a hundred feet before we came upon a gigantic cavern filled with lava and stones floating in that lake. There were stalactites, stalagmites, and mostly columns all around the room. But something huge in the middle caught my eye. I couldn't believe it. We'd found it, so easily.

The Seasonal Stone of Autumn was here.

I walked forward, as if in a trance, towards the gigantic stone. It was beautiful, a rustic bronze-orange color. Fire seemed to glow at the center of the rock.

The others began exploring the rest of the room, while I hopped across the lake on the stepping stones to the island in the middle. I longed to just feel the stone, feel the warmth radiate forth. I reached out a paw to touch it as I got nearer. My paw fell on the warm stone.

I looked up at it, and gasped. It had carvings of flowers all around it. Waitaminute...weren't flowers an embodiment of spring...? As I thought this, the stone glowed suddenly...

And disappeared.

Realizing what this meant, I snapped my head around at the others and yelled, "It's a trap!"

The room began shaking violently, causing the lava to boil forth and splash around, searing the rocks it landed on. Giant stones fell from the cieling, threatening to crush any unfortunate to be underneath it.

We gathered together and made for the exit, but a bunch of rocks suddenly piled up before it and melded together, forming a wall where the doorway was. We were effectively trapped.

"What now?" I asked the others, searching around the room for any hope of an exit.

"Look! Up there!" Cameron pointed up at the opposite wall, where a large hole had appeared. Our only chance for escape.

We ran across the cavern dodging here and there around falling boulders and tongues of fire and lava. I got singed badly by a string of lava lashing forth from the lake as a rock fell into it. Zhunjai helped me up, and we were off again.

We reached the other wall just as a bunch of rocks piled up before it, providing a crude stairway. I sent Zhunjai and Yanira up first before Cameron and I rocketed up the steps. However, we had to stop abruptly every time a rock fell in front of us. By the time we reached the same level as the opening in the wall, there was a literal floor made of these falling rocks. We were still a ways away from the opening. We raced forward as time was consumed.

I screamed aloud as a rock fell onto my tail, trapping me in place. I was only feet from the door. I tugged feebly at my trapped tail, trying desperately to free myself before I was crushed. I looked up to see a large rock falling down on top of me. I yanked harder at my tail. I only had a few seconds...!

I was pushed out of the way as the rock fell on top of me. I rolled through the doorway just in time.

"Cameron!" I heard Zhunjai yell. I look through the doorway, and gasped. It was Ca,eron who saved me from my falling doom, but at a severe price. He was now trapped underneath it.

"No, Cameron!" I raced forward to save him...

But a rock fell in front of the opening, trapping him inside.

"Nooo!" I pounded on the rock in a meaningless effort to break through it. I had to save him. He was my best friend!

Yanira came up behind me and shook me from the rock. "Stop Landon! He's gone."

"No, I have to save him! Let me go!"

She spun me around to look at her. "Landon, don't be a fool. He's gone...I'm...I'm sorry..."

[Neo Emolga]

Lesalas, DARK Territory
Festival of Feathers, Day 3

I had been by the fountain they were trying to build in the courtyard. It felt weird though, before they wanted me to pose so they could get just the right carving going. Wings fully spread, looking up into the sky, arms at my sides, wearing a somewhat serious expression. It was quite hard considering I felt so silly doing it, but they eventually got the pose they needed…

After that, Lucied had paid me a visit while I was taking a break and sipping Oran Ciders. He looked way better than he did before. He still had that pale look, but I figured that must have been from fully absorbing the Stone of Winter. Heck, after what I had did with the Summer Stone, I was surprised I didn’t glow like the sun…

“Heya, Chief.” Lucied told me, sitting down by my side.

“Hey there, Lucied.” I told him, noticing how much better he looked, “You’re looking way better than you did last night. Good to see this blue stuff worked out for you.”

He wasn’t crazy about it… in an almost laughable way. I figured I might as well drink away while this stuff was still around being served. Meanwhile, because it was in short supply, a barrel was being set aside just for me. I could have laughed though. I drink a whole barrel’s worth of Oran Cider today, and my days of flying would be over. They’d have to carry my big, bloated yellow body back to the palace in a fishing net…

“Anyway,” Lucied continued, wanting some time for a chat, “since both of us hold a stone each… maybe we could pass the time by telling how we got em’? I would love to hear the dangers you’ve faced…”

“Oh yeah.” I laughed at him, “I guess we’re both wondering how each other pulled it off, huh?”

Where to begin…? Man, so much had happened, but I decided to let loose with it.

“Nathaniel and I started with mapping three locations that… could have had the Summer Stone, based on the fact the Summer Stone has wind and thunder elements. We came up with Lightning Field, Thunder Meadow, and Mt Thunder.”

Yep, that was right. And so I carried on.

“Okay, now I knew it wasn’t in Lightning Field because… ah ha, I was born there and lived my whole childhood there.” I told Lucied, “Heck, someone there would have known. So we had Thunder Meadow and good ol’ Mt Thunder. We went with Mt Thunder first, and… yeah, I actually talked to our good friend Monday Morning… I mean Zapdos.”

Okay, I could admit, I was in a joking mood…

“Told us the Stone of Summer wasn’t there because… he never heard of the thing.” I continued for Lucied, taking a very cynical and humorous tone, “But, we checked Mt Thunder away. Nothing. So, we headed to Thunder Meadow, and long and behold, Nathaniel, Chaz, and myself as well as all the other Windblazers come across the opening. Boom, one Hyper Beam later, we find the entrance, and now we’ve got our blood going. However, as soon as we step in, Delta Green gets on our tails. Nathaniel tried to make it look like he was in there alone, giving me the slip to go ahead while he held the up.”

I could tell Lucied was going to love hearing this next crazy part…

“That cavern…” I told Lucied, “was a trap fiesta. Spikes, poison, pit traps, they could have taken out a party’s worth of Pokémon in there. Twelve sublevels of fun. However, I managed to reach the Stone of Summer before Delta Green did. I touched it, sucked it all in and got these incredible wings… and powers that I didn’t think were possible. However, out from the ground comes this hideous rock dragon named Rackal. Well, Delta Green comes along and we both realize… we gotta take this thing out. We do, but they get all indignant on me for taking the stone. So, rather than cause an even bigger mess, I make that deal with them to allow them to come over here to get there own stone. And well, it worked, chances were they’re out there getting it now. They helped me, and I helped them out. It worked out… really well, and that’s when this whole crazy festival started.”

I was tired from talking. It was a crazy story, something to tell little kids in the future. Whether they would believe it or not… I didn’t know, but it was one heck of a tale.

Meanwhile, I was curious to know how Lucied managed to get his paws on the Stone of Winter. This had to be interesting…

[Knightblazer]

[Central Square Fountain]::[Lesalas City]::[DARK Territory]
Festival Of Feathers - Day Three

I sorta frowned at the Oran Cider the Chief was sipping as he replied to my previous question with a laugh. “Oh yeah,” he said with a laugh, “I guess we’re both wondering how each other pulled it off, huh?”

“You got that right,” I replied, “both of us are just wondering how fun it was,” I said with heavy sarcasm. Obviously, things were hardly fun. Troublesome didn’t even cut it. It was more of ‘do this or you’ll die’ mission. Just were some so head over heals about power…?

“Nathaniel and I started with mapping three locations that… could have had the Summer Stone, based on the fact the Summer Stone has wind and thunder elements. We came up with Lightning Field, Thunder Meadow, and Mt Thunder.”

“I see…” I muttered, remembering that I, too, had found the Winter Stone in the Frosty Forest, since it was the one with ice and water. Not that it was deliberate. Maybe I should have taken the route through Mt. Blaze… man, these decisions were so annoying at times…

“Okay, now I knew it wasn’t in Lightning Field because… ah ha, I was born there and lived my whole childhood there.” he told me, “Heck, someone there would have known. So we had Thunder Meadow and good ol’ Mt Thunder. We went with Mt Thunder first, and… yeah, I actually talked to our good friend Monday Morning… I mean Zapdos.”

I chuckled a bit at that. “Good ol’ Monday Morning?” I echoed, “now that’s a lot better than Javas’s habit of calling others ‘Monsieurs’ and ‘Mademoiselles’. You should see how people react when Jav calls them THAT.” I joked as well. It seemed that both of us were in high spirits today. That was good, considering what I had to tell the Chief later on…

“Told us the Stone of Summer wasn’t there because… he never heard of the thing.” he continued, the tone of his voice cynical and humorous, “But, we checked Mt Thunder away. Nothing. So, we headed to Thunder Meadow, and long and behold, Nathaniel, Chaz, and myself as well as all the other Windblazers come across the opening. Boom, one Hyper Beam later, we find the entrance, and now we’ve got our blood going. However, as soon as we step in, Delta Green gets on our tails. Nathaniel tried to make it look like he was in there alone, giving me the slip to go ahead while he held the up.”

So that was one of the voices I heard last night. Knowing Chief, since he took the Summer Stone from their territory, he probably had allowed them to search for the Stone Of Spring. It was kinda ironic in a fact, because I knew where it was. The Waterfall Pond… I remembered one of the guardians telling me. Not that I would want to give its location away; I was sworn to shut my trap on it.

“That cavern…” he said, “was a trap fiesta. Spikes, poison, pit traps, they could have taken out a party’s worth of Pokémon in there. Twelve sublevels of fun. However, I managed to reach the Stone of Summer before Delta Green did. I touched it, sucked it all in and got these incredible wings… and powers that I didn’t think were possible. However, out from the ground comes this hideous rock dragon named Rackal. Well, Delta Green comes along and we both realize… we gotta take this thing out. We do, but they get all indignant on me for taking the stone. So, rather than cause an even bigger mess, I make that deal with them to allow them to come over here to get there own stone. And well, it worked, chances were they’re out there getting it now. They helped me, and I helped them out. It worked out… really well, and that’s when this whole crazy festival started.”

Bingo. I was right. Chief did let the Deltas enter our land and search for the Stone of Spring. Not that I really minded. It was good to see relationships forming. Maybe in time, we could be allies within these crazy times…

“So, I guess it’s my turn to spill the beans, eh?” I remarked as I grabbed one of those fizzy Apple Sodas. At least THESE were better than Oran Ciders any other day. I took a small sip from my drink before placing it at the side and started my own tale.

“Well, it started at Mt. Freeze. Got this call to rescue a certain Stucky the Ratatta,” I started dully, recalling the sheer danger on just rescuing… Stucky the stuck Ratatta. “Anyway, after that, I was head back here, but then a watery problem surface and I find myself trailed by an Aqua spy. So I did the best course of action: lie back, relax and look at those fluffy clouds until that spy got too impatient and withdrew.”

Man, I knew the Chief would be crazy over that part. I was always the strange Mightyena… and now it wasn’t just in personality, too.

Taking yet another sip from the Apple Soda, I continued. “So after that, I walked and walked and walked and… well, walked, but after passing by the same stone for the past hour, I found myself lost. Then I met Missus Articuno, and asked her for help in leading me out of the forest. So as I was following her, the ground just gave way on me and I find myself lost again.” I said with a rather pained expression. Apparently I had quite a knack of getting myself lost. First in the Frosty Forest and then in those caves. I wonder if there would ever be a time when I would not get lost. Man, it wasn’t fun at all, really… more of annoyingly troublesome…

“Anyway, I found myself in these weird icy tunnels underneath the Frosty Forest,” I said, “So as I said I got lost, but then with some institution and one Shadow Ball later, bada-boom, and I find the entrance to the Winter Maze. While you have twelve, I had an extra floor of trap-fiesta fun. This guy called Reg chased me, but then we were quickly separated. Then I also had to fight these undead Pokemon, and a freakin’ living suit of amour.”

I was sure that the Chief was totally weirded out by now. I couldn’t blame him – anyone would too when they face a talking suit of scrap metal.

“And then at the last five levels, I got to have fun with these five trials that tested my senses. So for Sight I had cracked tiles over uncracked ones, and Hearing a strange Pidgey who uses Feint Attack every single minute. Then in Smell I received a Roselia among Grimmer – well, a rose among those pile of Toxic sludge. Next came smooth and rough tiles complete with blackouts and trap tiles once again. And finally in Taste, there was this potion puzzle. I basically saw this used bottle and drank from it, so I technically didn’t do that puzzle.”

I then took in a deep breath, and mentally prepared myself for the most fun part of the story…

“So I find the Winter Stone at the last level, but when I took it, lo and behold, there was a guardian there too. The Mist Dragon, it was called, and very appropriate too. Entirely made out of freezing mist, I had to fight it with the stone’s powers. So, after a long and bloody battle, I defeat it with Rain Dance to wash away the moisture in the air. But then guessed who I finally found? Ifrit, my best comrade. He got taken by the dragon and at his last moment, gave me an Escape Orb to get the hell out of that twisted castle…”

It was then when I had to hold back my tears as I recalled the times I had with Ifrit. He was the best one could have, standing by me all this time whenever we went through the most difficult situations. Now things seemed so different without him… swallowing back my tears, I turned to Chief and grinned. “So that’s how I got this chilling block of ice.” I finished, not really wanting to let him see just how painful was the price in letting myself grab the stone… at least the Chief didn't have to do it...

Knightblazer

[STORMTROOPER X]

OOC: I sure took my sweet time, but I'm finally back. Hope I'm able to readjust my story well enough to what's been going on.


Location: Leaving woods surrounding Unknown Relic

Trekking through the enormous forest the gargantuan kingler named Royale (Roy for short),accompanied by his squad members X and Zig, began to summarize their entire mission objective a third time in a row to make sure the squad was well informed and well prepared.

“Okay squad listen up!” the kingler said sternly “ I’m only going to repeat this once so you better listen and you better listen good!”

“But you’ve already explained it too us. Twice!” Zig replied with a slight sense of annoyance.

“Yeah…..well……uhhhhh…Just shut up and listen!!! He cried angrily

“Due to our tardiness two of the stones have already been secured. Luckily they are both in the hands of DARK, who we have just recently allied ourselves with. Also Dotaitos is hot on the trail of the Stone of Spring, and the Fall Stone’s location is uncertain so our best bet would be the Fiery Field to the North West. Fiery Field is deep within Rocket territory so Delta Green is willing to provide us with as much men and supplies as we require. This won’t be easy gentlemen. Any questions? ” Roy stated.

“Yeah I got one” Zig replied “Why do your speeches suck?” Zig asked.

“Why you son of a…..” Roy replied accompanied by an enraged tone

Zig started to repeatedly dodge Roy’s continuous barrage of enraged crabhammer strikes while laughingly loudly and mockingly the whole session.

“Knock it off” X stated calmly.

“As for troops we don’t need any. A: we can handle this ourselves just fine, and B: it would be foolish to sneak deep within enemy territory accompanied by hundreds of thousands of Delta Green soldiers. We’re doing this mission solo.” X stated

“Agreed” Roy replied. “Then it’s settled. Our first obstacle is the Desert region full of bandits and ravage natives. Luckily through my extensive research I’ve stumbled across a well detailed map revealing the locations of scattered oasis all across the desert so we don’t have to worry about securing a fine supply of water.”

“Mmmmm” X replied in agreement.

“Well the desert is just up ahead so prepare yourselves gentlemen” Roy said.

Sure enough in the near, visible distance raged a blazing sandstorm with the ferocity of a mad heard composed of thousands of enraged Taurous. The first leg of their grand journey was about to commence.

[Neo Emolga]

Lesalas, DARK Territory
Festival of Feathers, Day 3

Lucied got a kick out of the story. But he knew… earning these wings was no walk in the park. So he gave me his side…

“So, I guess it’s my turn to spill the beans, eh?” Lucied asked, enjoying his Apple soda before continuing.

“Go for it, because I’m curious.” I told him, looking at him with interest, “We found you out of the blue, and before we knew it, you had the Stone of Winter. How the heck did you get it?”

“Well, it started at Mt. Freeze.” Lucied began with it, “Got this call to rescue a certain Stucky the Ratatta. Anyway, after that, I was head back here, but then a watery problem surface and I find myself trailed by an Aqua spy. So I did the best course of action: lie back, relax and look at those fluffy clouds until that spy got too impatient and withdrew.”

My jaw kind of dropped there. That was too weird…

“You’re kidding… right?” I asked him jokingly.

“So after that, I walked and walked and walked and… well, walked, but after passing by the same stone for the past hour, I found myself lost.” Lucied recalled, laying it out before me, “Then I met Missus Articuno, and asked her for help in leading me out of the forest. So as I was following her, the ground just gave way on me and I find myself lost again.”

“Articuno, huh?” I asked, finding that interesting, “So you came across one of the legendary birds as well, just before finding it. That’s gotta be fate, the chances of that happening are pretty slim…”

Still though, in Lucied’s situation, I wouldn’t have known what to do being that lost. As a Windblazer, I was too used to just flying out of messes like that, but Lucied had to do all of this on foot. Must have been cold and rough going…

“Anyway, I found myself in these weird icy tunnels underneath the Frosty Forest,” Lucied continued, “So as I said I got lost, but then with some institution and one Shadow Ball later, bada-boom, and I find the entrance to the Winter Maze. While you have twelve, I had an extra floor of trap-fiesta fun. This guy called Reg chased me, but then we were quickly separated. Then I also had to fight these undead Pokemon, and a freakin’ living suit of amour.”

“Get real, Lucied.” I told him, nearly laughing, “Seriously, that’s totally crazy if that really happened. I mean man… what do you say to something like that?”

“And then at the last five levels, I got to have fun with these five trials that tested my senses.” Lucied explained, “So for Sight I had cracked tiles over uncracked ones, and Hearing a strange Pidgey who uses Feint Attack every single minute. Then in Smell I received a Roselia among Grimmer – well, a rose among those pile of Toxic sludge. Next came smooth and rough tiles complete with blackouts and trap tiles once again. And finally in Taste, there was this potion puzzle. I basically saw this used bottle and drank from it, so I technically didn’t do that puzzle.”

“Sounds like… great fun…” I replied sarcastically, “You know, you do have to wonder between these two stories. Who the heck spent all this time devising these kinds of things? It’s crazy… in a non-entertaining way…”

I could tell Lucied was reaching the end though. He reaction seemed different though… easily lost that cheerful side to him…

“So I find the Winter Stone at the last level, but when I took it, lo and behold, there was a guardian there too.” Lucied explained, “The Mist Dragon, it was called, and very appropriate too. Entirely made out of freezing mist, I had to fight it with the stone’s powers. So, after a long and bloody battle, I defeat it with Rain Dance to wash away the moisture in the air. But then guessed who I finally found? Ifrit, my best comrade. He got taken by the dragon and at his last moment, gave me an Escape Orb to get the hell out of that twisted castle…”

“Aw geez…” I told him, thinking about Ifrit, “I… never would have thought that would have happened out there…”

“So that’s how I got this chilling block of ice.” Lucied finished.

It was crazy what had to be done for these stones. Traps, trials, guardians, and such weird feelings after absorbing all that power. It was really something…

“Wow…” I told him, finding both of our stories to be nuts, “You know, with all this, I sure wish Delta Green some luck finding the Stone of Spring. I wouldn’t be surprised if their trial is just as outlandish as ours were…”

Glad I didn’t have to go to that cavern ever again… despite the fact there was so little of it now considering the whole thing crumbled apart and led to oblivion for all I knew.

“It is a weird feeling though…” I told Lucied, giving him my honest feelings now, “Flying with wings is a feeling that… seems so natural but foreign at the same time. And this power… ability to cause hurricanes and incredible lighting storms… all by myself. I mean… I’m sure you’re feeling it too. Blizzards, sheer cold… the essence of ice and bitter chilling winds is within you now. Makes you wonder if there’s… anything else to do with these stones.”

I took another sip of Oran Cider before looking at the crowds again. The Apple Soda was being opened around… since we had drunk the Oran Cider dry. And I knew that almost never happened…

I don’t think I’d ever forget things like this…

[Knightblazer]

[Central Square Fountain]::[Lesalas City]::[DARK Territory]
Festival Of Feathers - Day Three

“Wow…” muttered the Chief in some form of awe, “You know, with all this, I sure wish Delta Green some luck finding the Stone of Spring. I wouldn’t be surprised if their trial is just as outlandish as ours were…”

“Somehow I think they’ll have… fun too,” I muttered with mild sarcasm. Honestly, I was rather sure they would have a rather painful meeting with the Swarm Dragon. Man, why did all the guardians have to be something Dragon? Rock Dragon… Mist Dragon… and the Swarm Dragon. Wonder what’s for the Autumn Stone. The Lava Dragon? That hardly sounded cool…

“It is a weird feeling though…” the Chief started again, seeming to tell me his honest feelings now. “Flying with wings is a feeling that… seems so natural but foreign at the same time. And this power… ability to cause hurricanes and incredible lighting storms… all by myself. I mean… I’m sure you’re feeling it too. Blizzards, sheer cold… the essence of ice and bitter chilling winds is within you now. Makes you wonder if there’s… anything else to do with these stones.”

I took another sip from my Apple Soda before putting it down. Giving out a loud sigh, I turned towards the Chief again and started, “I seriously have no idea what these stones are for. I mean, that Team Greywind disappeared for months, only to be found dead months later with traces of the Stone Of Autumn… I’m really confused on what happened to Clyde and the other two. Javas himself has no idea too, but then again, so does everyone else…”

Yes, things were indeed rather confusing. Just how did Clyde and the others even got into contact with the Autumn Stone in the first place? So many questions that couldn’t be answered. No one, except…

Xatu…

I turned to the Chief again. “Chief,” I started seriously, “I think we should go and see Xatu. Maybe he knows about the events… and perhaps the stone’s origin, too…” Honestly, I hoped that he would agree. But even if he didn’t want to, I would go there myself. Things were just too complicated for me to comprehend now. Only Xatu would have a chance of understanding the situation…

Knightblazer

[TVTMaster]

OOC: Okay, I'm gonna get to the stone now. Eight or nine posts should do the trick. Thing's all about not destroying stuff, rather than getting past stuff to destroy. And I'll be seing the Swarm Dragon the whole time. Speaking of which, how'd Lucied know its name? Even I don't know it IC yet.

Waterfall Chasm, Seratine

Eretan managed to squeeze into the tiny hole with the help of the Detect Band. Rowan was going to be left behind, but unsuccesful negotiations led to his temporary possesion of the band. Getting in, Rowan started yakking. Cub silenced him with a Thunderwave to the mouth. Eretan retrieved the scarf, shrinking smaller as the cave became narrower. "Eretan. Do we have any idea what we'll find here? That monster didn't look too nice on those runes." "We just don't break whatever is there. Easy, right?" Wrong. Eretan crumbled a clay wall. Tiny pokemon began to scuttle away. These tiny creatures looked like tall crabs, which had a conical body rounded at the top, and two pairs of three-part claws around its body. Their legs were tentacles with a frame, moving them like stiff bags walking around. Two wide eyes at the top peeked open.

"What are those?" "I don't know." "Look like little trees to me." Cub poked one, and it suddenly jumped. Letting loose a quiet cry, the others swarmed to it, joining together in a salamander-like body, which crawled away as a swarm of single-minded drones. "Thhh... thuu..." Rowan was starting to talk again. "Thhaat was weeeird..." The thought was met with agreement. And then they decided to look ahead. At a vast cavern full of life. A chasm fell into the earth, and strange pokemon of all kinds slept, dormant, in the blue luminous cavern. The ceiling was as vast as the bottom, but only the way down was twisted with falling streams of water.

"My god..." Eretan looked upon the cave. Water from the waterfall poured into icy tubes, which melted away as it went down, creating a seemingly solid expanse of rushing water. In places, stone spires covered in the crabs stretched from side to side of the cylindrical chasm. But astouding was the water system. Water fell in a pattern, clashing on itself and falling in a choeographed dance that fed bulbous pokemon, sacs of water with a lily flower on top. These sleeping pokemon breathed in the water. One stirred from a falling pebble that blocked the waterflow for a split second, but quickly fell asleep again. Many small, Mantine-like pokemon exhaling purple gas lay on moss that swarmed with tiny green fuzzballs.

"This is incredible. A balance so delacite, the smallest touch could disrupt it. How--" "Look!" The salamander came by, and woke a trail of crabs as it went, growing in size. "That's weird. But look: There's no way down. See that sheet of water hitting that moss? I'd bet anything that if broken, the flow would wake the monster." "So we get around...?" "Up there. The crabs are already awake. The monster's probably waking up as we speak. We cross the rock spire up there, and go down to that ledge close to the moss." The spire was rather narrow, so the Detect Band jerked his legs around, making him have to work extra hard to avoid the streams overhead, which ran to pools of bubbling clear sludge that dropped down to drink at regular intervals. This cave wasn't going to be easy. Water is easy to break.

OOC: Got to go, my mom wants me to let my sister play this game with a jumping dog... I'll finish the post later. EDIT: I'm back, since my mom said my little sister had built up my hopes only to say my friends were stupid and she wanted to beat her highscore agin.

[Shen]

Tunnels Under Mt. Blaze
Sublevel 5

No...He can't be...gone...I won't accept that, I won't! My best friend is still alive!

"Landon, please, be reasonable." Zhunjai's voice seemed to say from a large distance. "If you go in, you'd only die yourself. There's nothing we can do for him now..." I heard an audible sob come from her throat.

My arms dropped from Yanira's in defeat. I closed my eyes against the sting of the tears mixing with this corosive air. I guess...she was right. He was dead, and it would only be suicide to try to save him. I began to cry for my loss. "Cameron...I'm sorry I couldn't save you." I said to myself, "You saved my life, only to sacrifice yourself...I'm sorry."

My tears fell to the hot floor and evaporated, leaving only a small trail of steam. This place would be all our tombs if we aren't careful. It's like Zhunjai said: We can only survive if we rely on each other's help. I felt so helpless though.

"Come on." Yanira said softly, "We need to hurry. We'll hold services for him after we retrieve the Stone and get out of this hellhole."

I rubbed the tears from my face and nodded. We all walked forward as one through the fiery tunnel. Some lava from the lake behind us remained in here after it had frothed into this place.

Something caught my eye on the wall in front of us. I went up and saw some writing had been carved in the stone jerkily:

So, you've made it past one of my many traps in one piece...or not. Hehehe...I look forward to seeing how you do in my little games. If you win, I'll give you your freedom, and much more. If you lose...well, I won't be responsible for what happens to you. Good Luck, and try to stay alive!

I clenched my fist after reading this. So he likes to play games with people's lives?! "Who is this...that thinks he can toy with us?! Who thinks we can just gamble our lives away?!" I raised my head to the roof. "WHO!" I half expected an answer.

"It's no use, Landon. Whoever wrote this was here a long time ago." Zhunjai said, "There aren't any unfamiliar scents in this tunnel."

I opened my mouth, trying to catch some whiff of whatever wrote this, but Zhunjai was right. Nothing here except the smells of brimstone and rock. I sighed. "Got it. Let's go." We went through the tunnel, a gravely silence wrapping around us.

The tunnel continued for miles, but the few hours we were in here, we hardly spoke a word, trapped in our own thoughts. Then, the tunnel widened into a cavern on a slab hanging from the cieling, we saw these characters:

Zimmer der Gier

We tried to decifer it, but nothing came to mind. Upon seeing what was inside the cavern, all else was forgotten.

The room was completely filled with many desires of all that walk the earth. One entire side of the room was covered in gold and other tresures. Tables groaning under piles of succulent food and drink. The greatest posessions in the world lay scattered on the floor, where any might pick it up.

"Wow..." This was all I could think to say, since I could hardly think at all.

Yanira and Zhunjai laughed and ran inside. I slowly followed them, the writing on the sign still on my mind. The language seemed so...familiar. I've read something like that before. I looked up at a table, and gasped.

A Magmar was here, gorging himself on the most delicious food I've ever seen. He was incredibly fat, so much so that I was surprised at the speed he was still eating unabated. Even our presence hadn't registered with him as he continued his fattening. "What the...?"

I looked over to the treasure pile, and a sight of horror met my eyes. The skeletal remains of a Machop was lying on it, still holding gold coins in its grasp. He had died coveting this treasure. I looked around frantically, and my breath caught in my throat. Another magmar's remains were on the floor, his intestines and the contents of his stomach had fallen across the ground. This hadn't happened long ago. The gross insides were still steaming.

Then the writing on the sign came back to my mind, and I finally understood what it meant. I looked around for Zhunjai and Yanira frantically, hoping they hadn't already...I couldn't even try to think of what would happen to them. Then, I saw them hovering over a pile of precious jewlery, on the fringe of grabbing it. "Stop!" I yelled, hoping they would hear me and halt their efforts to grab the jewels. "If you touch that, you'll be trapped here by your greed until you die!"

"What?" Zhunjai snapped out of a trance and looked over to me. Yanira soon did the same. "You serious?"

"Yes. It's another game. The writing on the slab from before, you remember it? It literally means 'Room of Greed.' Look over at the Magmar." I pointed to the steaming mass of pokemon claimed by death's grip. Zhunjai clapped her paws over her mouth, and Yanira stared at it, muttering, "Mary Mother of God!"

"You see? This room feeds on our greed and intensifies it, until it is so strong, we think of nothing else until our iminent death." I took a deep breath, something I regretted almost instantly. The smell of that corpse was almost overpowering as it caught on the scent glands on the roof of my mouth. "We need to find the exit now. While we still have our sanity."

We scoured the room, avoiding more corpses, looking for the way out of here. Finally, we discovered a hidden doorway, opposite the way we came in. We took one last look back, and hurried through.

Afterwards, we sighed in relief as the greed in our bodies left. It had grown too powerful to control. We almost trapped ourselves. Breathing deeply, I muttered to the other two, "You alright?"

"Just...a little...shaken..." Yanira said inbetween breaths. She gave a thumbs up though. Zhunjai nodded in agreement.

I looked around at the dark tunnel, and another wall writing caught my eye. i ran forward to read it.

If you can read this, I applaude you. As you may have noticed, the room amplifies greed. Not many can control their greed. None who've entered the room have come out alive. You are the first. So, congrats. Now, one hint for you. The next six rooms will test your power over the other six deadly sins. May a higher power help you through them. Even luck won't help you now.

"Well, our troubles have only just begun."

[Lord Celebi]

OOC: So, its the Sins we're going after?
IC:
Blaze Maze

I did a barrel roll out of the way, and the flaming Moltres crashed into the wall. It disappated into several Gengar, who flew away. It was all an illusion... but it seemed... so... real. I tried as hard as I could to keep my face expressionless, but my jaw dropped nonetheless. Immediately, a loud voice boomed into the room.

Congratulations Mortal. In your search for power, you have defeated the first of your trials: Wrath. Although Moltres had harmed you, you kept a cool head, and did not seek revenge outright, and instead only defended yourself. Your next test awaits you. Can you face six more sins?

"S#it," I said, "Someone's playing games with me. No one plays games with me."

A door in the cave we were in opened, and I was now filled in a room full of beautiful Kabutops in extremely errotic positions. They grabbed me by the shoulders and kept asking me to 'Do the dirty.'

Never. My life is too short to potentially harm myself with another Kabutops. The risk for me was too great. I lived to conquer, not to spread my legacy. I will not need to do so once I have the stone, for then I will be able to become immortal. I don't need to bother myself with these wenches.

I continued on in the room, kicking the few that tried grabbing my legs. I looked back at my men, who were engrossed in... nothing. I see... The room is only full of projections of females from their species. Interesting. Whoever is doing this to me must command many ghost Pokemon.

Several more Kabutops jumped onto me. I sliced at them, sending Gengars flying all over the room. I kicked another out of my way, and used Extremespeed to get to the end of the hall. I tripped over a Kabutops laying down. I fell over headfirst as the Kabutops piled onto me, trying to... get me... 'going.'

I used a Hyper Beam and shot a hole in the pile, knocking a Gengar out. I fought my scythes out of the pile and slashed at more Gengar. I kicked another Kabutops out of the way, where then, it became a Gengar and floated off.

I continued fighting myself down the hall, turning more than 100 Kabutopses into Gengar along the way.

"QUIT. PLAYING. GAMES!" I shouted at the voice. The Kabutops around me now disappeared as another hole in the tunnel opened.

Congratulations. You have resisted Lust, the downfall of many men before you. It is time for you to continue onto your next sin.

I walked into the tunnel to find my next trial...

[STORMTROOPER X]

Location: Desert Region

Trudging through the desert from the very beginning had already become a real nuisance. Sand kept flying everywhere while the long bed of sand on the ground was as hot as stepping straight into a blazing inferno. From only the few everlasting minutes the trio had set foot into the dry desert Zig the zigzagoon had already become annoyed of the earthly Hell.

“Could this place be any more uncomfortably hot?” Zig cried in rage.

“Roy how much longer will we need to trudge through this living Hell?” Zig asked.

“Days, maybe months” Roy replied blatantly.

“What?!?!? Are you Serious?!?!?!” Zig replied in shock.

“Why didn’t we find some other method of transportati…..” Zig started to state, but in that exact moment he vanished right out of sight as if he were erased from existence.

“Zig? Zig!!!!” Roy cried nervously. He started looking all around the wasteland within view, but Zig was nowhere within sight. For a moment he thought his friend was truly gone forever until he heard a familiar voice.

“Whoa! What a ride.” it was Zig’s voice alright, but he was still nowhere within view.

“Zig?” asked Roy “Zig where are you?”

“Down here.” Zig replied

“Hell?” asked the kingler.

“Ha Ha Ha *cough*cough*Not*cough*cough*. I fell down bellow into some sort of tunnel.” Zig stated with a faint echo.

Creeping closer to Zig’s location of disappearance they saw Zig alive and well. Bellow the bed of sand he appeared to be standing in a long, dark corridor filled to the brim with dust as old as time.

“This hall looks like it could go on for miles!” Zig said excitedly “I’m gonna check this place out. You guys can just wait there for me. I’ll be back.” Zig yelled up to his fellow squad members as he began to journey deep within the unknown.

“Zig wait!” Roy replied, but Zig kept on trekking.

“Great.” Roy said in an annoyed tone. “There could be traps or ravage pokemon down there and Fuzz for Brains would stroll right into them. As nice as it sounds we should go after him.”

X nodded in agreement and so both X and Roy began to trail Zig through the pitch black tunnel until they finally caught up to him.

“C’mon Zig you’ve had your fun and games so lets get back to the desert.” Stated Roy sternly, but Zig only stood their in total ignorance.

“C’mon Zig I said…..lets…..go?” As he approached the zigzagoon he finally understood why the pokemon was in such awe. Right under their noses laid a vast ancient civilization stretching as far as the eye could see.

“Wow.” Was all Roy could muster.

The trio climbed down the small cliff they were perched on and started to explore the wondrous ancient city.

“Wow” Zig cried in complete awe “Look at how old these building structures are. This place has got to be thousands of years old.”

Roy started to examine some left over rubble from the ancient civilization

“Judging by these fossils this place must have served as a desert refuge for a colony of Sandshrews and Sandslashes. I’m just surprised to find such high quality archeological findings in such prime condition.” Stated Roy.

“Hey” Zig cried “if this place is so old it’s got to be packing some sort of loot. What do you say we stick around and find some real treasure hear and there?”

X took a moment to think Zig’s scheme completely through.

“Well since were here we might as well search for something worth while within this dump” said X.

“Alright!” cried Zig excitedly “I bet were going to find a king’s ransom in this old fossil!”

The group went on ahead to search the mysterious city dry of any fortune it might contain. Little did they know they had asked for more than they had bargained for.

[Lord Celebi]

Blaze Maze

I entered the next room... alone. While it was slightly dissettling that my troops all gave in to lust, I knew I had to pull through. The next room... was Gluttony. Food was piled on tables, as Gengars began to chow down on all the food. It all looked delicious. I had to resist the temptation, and it hadn't helped that I haven't eaten a good meal in months.

Then came the worst. Gengars floated up to me and began to eat in front of my face or hold food up to my nose. The first Gengar that tried this was sliced in half and writhed in pain on the floor. Too bad he was in his solid form.

The next Gengar came at me and tried shoving food in my mouth. I used Extremespeed and got out of the way of the Gengar, sending it flying into the wall. More Gengars tried to force feed me some of the delicious looking food, but I resisted as hard as I could. One succeeded, but I spat out the food instantly. The food tasted quite good though.

I then used a Hyper Beam on the table, completely destroying it, along with all of the food. The table then just reappeared. I was shocked. It wasn't real food at all; instead, it was just another ghost illusion. It made no sense... Who would do this?

I sliced at another Gengar, sending it flying. Another came at me from the back, but I used another Hyper Beam on it, sending it back. They were all fools to mess with me. I stabbed another, until the body count kept rising and rising. I then got a brilliant idea.

I used Hydro Pump on the food. Immediately, all the food on the table became soggy. Although the food was sickening, I REALLY didn't want any now.

Congratulations, the voice spoke once again, You have passed Gluttony. Many men have had stomachs larger than their brains and failed here. You have resisted the urge to overeat. Now, you must face: Envy!

Immediately, a hole opened up in the floor of the room, and I fell through the pit. Inside the room... was... Stuff...

[Neo Emolga]

Lesalas, DARK Territory
Festival of Feathers Day 3

Lucied’s mind seemed to wander again. He was right though, it all did seem strange and weird…

“I seriously have no idea what these stones are for.” Lucied told me, thinking it over, “I mean, that Team Greywind disappeared for months, only to be found dead months later with traces of the Stone Of Autumn… I’m really confused on what happened to Clyde and the other two. Javas himself has no idea too, but then again, so does everyone else…”

“Well, I’ve realized there’s something with the stone that makes it come out again after the one who had taken it in has passed away.” I told Lucied, relating to that story, “Seems like when it’s our time, someone else will receive the power of our stones, as with what happened with Team Greywind. It means that we could pass the power down through the generations of DARK… but it also means enemy teams will be out to kill us. They would try their best to bring us down, and then take in the power of our stones once they reform before them. Clyde had died and the piece of the Stone of Autumn he had absorbed was formed around him. I… imagine it would happen with us as well…”

It was pretty depressing, but this was the reality of it. On the other hand, I would have been happy to hand over this power to a trusted and able DARK officer after it was my time to go to the place where all good souls come to rest. Some other officer would be able to get the same golden angelic wings I had now. I was sure… that someday I would find the one that was deserving of such after it was my time…

“Chief,” Lucied started seriously, “I think we should go and see Xatu. Maybe he knows about the events… and perhaps the stone’s origin, too…”

“He would…” I told him, realizing that if he had sensed the power in us, he would be able to tell, “But… it’s already late afternoon, and soon the night will arrive. By the time we arrive at the Great Canyon, it would be night. I say we leave first thing tomorrow morning. Sure, the festival and the Solace would be over, but this is pretty important. I’m also curious to know who or what creating these stones… and why…”

Meanwhile, I had seen plenty of festival lights had turned on as the sun began to set on the third day. I was sure the last moments of this Festival of Feathers would be very active. Plus, tomorrow was a good day to begin a whole new start of training and preparation. Meanwhile, Lucied and I would travel to the Great Canyon in the morning, and see what Xatu had to say about it. It would give us a better idea of what we had to do in order to use this power to its fullest… and to make sure no one besides us would have access to it…

[Lord Celebi]

Blaze Maze

The room was full of things. Not money or gold. Stuff. Everything I've ever wanted, to be exact. When I was a child, I always wanted things from the surface world. My parents kept me away from the surface world, which is why I desired things even more. When I escaped, I had no money to afford such things.

Then... I joined Aqua. In Aqua, I got only food, and no payment, as succeeding would be payment enough. I wasn't able to afford any of the things that I wanted, and therefore, still want things. I tripped over a stuffed Kabuto and picked it up.

"My childhood is haunting me," I said to it. Instead of hugging it, like the toy was intended to be, I cast it aside. I didn't need this now. It would only be a distraction. When the world was mine... Then I could make use of these things. Power is what I need before I can relax. Power is what I need before I can build a wealth.

Power... Is what I truly want. No material possession can substitute or power... Only power over Pokemon can fill that need. I used a Hyper Beam on the pile of things, sending several Gengar flying away.

The things then turned into Gengar and attacked me again. It was getting old. I used Extremespeed to speed myself to the end of the cavern, where I fell down another trapdoor.

You have controlled your envy, and not given in to it to obtain the things you want.

Instantly, when I went into this room, I became very tired. There was a comfortable chair in the center of the room. It hadn't helped that I had sat on unconfortable chairs and slept on straw for months... maybe even years.

In front of the chair was a stage, with a performance going on. This was obviously Sloth. The voice wanted me to laze up and to sit in the chair and do nothing. I tried as hard as I could to ignore my tiredness... But it was extremely hard.

I movedo ne foot, then another. I could see the end of the room, but it was so far away... So much... work... to get there. How... would I get there with no energy? I sliced at the chair, destroying it. At least now, I have no other choice.

I grimaced as I made my way to the end of the cavern... What lied in store next for me? Greed and Pride...

[Neo Emolga]

Lesalas, DARK Territory
Festival of Feathers Day 3

It was slowly becoming night again, and the entire city was bathed in a colorful glow from all the strings of colorful lights hanging around. Normally, I would have been ready to start training again tomorrow morning, but I had made it clear that we had other plans… to see Xatu and to figure out what these stones were for.

In the meantime, I enjoyed myself to the fullest, knowing it would probably be another year before we would get a celebration of this magnitude. Plus, it was special to me, since for the first time, I saw really appreciation being spilled out all around me in every direction.

When I had some time, I had told Javris the Sandslash about what Lucied and I were planning on doing tomorrow morning. Again, it was only going to be for a day, and when we got back, I had all intentions of training the Windblazers again.

Most of the Oran Cider had been drained. The last remaining barrel was… the one set aside for me. Man, I didn’t even like looking at it. Plus… honestly, I could really take a break from that stuff. I was almost surprised I hadn’t turned blue from all the Oran Cider I’ve been drinking during the past three days…

Still though, after flying through the air and spreading more of these silly feathers around, I found it very easy to get tired from flying and flapping my wings. It was… kind of true, I was going to need to eat a whole lot of sugar to be able to fly for extended hours at a time. I knew when it came to raising the mounts for Windblazers, they needed an energy-rich diet. It felt kind of funny knowing I was going to have to follow that same pattern if I wanted to be able to fly like they could…

I wasn’t going to start with that barrel of Oran Cider though. I had finished my last glass of this celebration, now I needed something else to drink…

I was surprised how appetizing just plain water had become…

[Lord Celebi]

Blaze Maze

You have survived Sloth by resisting your urge to not go onto the next room. Your next trial... Greed.

Oh great. Stuck in a treasure room with undoubtedly fake treasure. The treasure glistened and glinted as the room, full of gold, jewels, and other valuables was as bright as daylight. It was... hard... to resist picking up the treasure. I launched a Hyper Beam at the mound of treaure.

Several Gengar flew at me, wearing jewels and gold. They tried slipping various rings on my scythes or gold coins into any place they could hold it. One Gengar tried pouring molten gold on me, to forever encase me in greed.

I struck back. I attacked the first Gengar with my Scythe, sending it flying back into the Sloth Room. The next one was annhilated by a Hydro Pump. The next a fury cutter. I was glad I had regained my energy from exiting the Sloth Room, or I wouldn't be able to fight as hard.

I stabbed another Gengar, until I got pushed into a pile of treasure. Immediately, the treasure transformed into more Gengars, trying to swarm me with the treasure that they possessed. I used an Extremespeed and got out of the pile, leaving the Gengars to attack themselves, being too stupid to realize I wasn't there.

I used another Hyper Beam on the last pile of treasure, making it disappear. I fell down another traphole, into an empty room.

Immediately, a voice asked, "Are you proud of yourself? You have passed the six trials!"

"Yes!" I said... Quickly realizing... That there was one last trial... pride.

"You fail!" The voice shouted, sending me falling down another trap door, and knocking me out...

[Neo Emolga]

Lesalas, DARK Territory
Festival of Feathers Day 3

It was really getting late, and after more dancing, delicious food, and festive celebration, I was utterly exhausted. It was strange though, normally Oran Cider would have kept me going throughout the entire night full of energy. I had guessed that if the stuff was drunk down in excess, it kind of lost that extra boost of energy after a while. Still though, I had enough with that stuff. Water was the only thing I was drinking that night, even though I was getting dares to chug down the entire barrel that was left for me. Simply put, there was no way I could do it. The barrel itself was like twenty times my size. Last thing I felt like doing was living life like a water balloon…

Some of the citizens were able to carry on, but to me, I was too tired to keep up with all of this. Plus, I needed the sleep. We needed to see Xatu over these stones, and while being presented with the residue found near Clyde wasn’t enough, maybe the two of us would be able to do it. It was the best chance we had. Not to mention, if we knew what the stones were really for and how to use them to the best of our ability, it would be that much more advantageous to both of us.

The night grew on, and I headed back to my palace. The pile of presents was just ridiculous now, and I knew I would probably be spending a month trying to open all of them and trying to figure out what to do with all this stuff. Still though, I really appreciated the respect from everyone on DARK. I had a feeling the next few months would be hard with trying to deal with Team Aqua. I didn’t know what they wanted, but hearing they had gone after Lucied with unnecessary hostility was disheartening.

If they really wanted a fight, I would show them they were way out of their league…

[Knightblazer]

[Wild Geese Barracks]::[Lesalas City]::[DARK Territory]
Festival Of Feathers - Day Three

Chief had agreed. That definitely made me glad, seeing that someone else could actually share the same sentiments as I do. We would leave first thing in the morning. Hopefully, our many questions would be able to be answered by Xatu. Then we would know just what in the world was truly happening…

By now, I had fully recovered from the entire drama with the Winter Stone. I was rather surprised at the speed I had recovered. Must have been another power of the stone, I guessed. It was nightfall when Leon and I finally headed back to the Wild Geese Barracks, where the entire crew had gathered for a briefing before we all called it a night. Three days of festival usually left all of us delirious for quite awhile. But luckily no one was this time – at least they spared a thought for me…

“So, Lucifer…” started Javas as he toyed with the Meowth charm draped around his neck, “what’s in store for us tomorrow? Leaving poor Leon in charge again while you and Monsieur Neo go and visit Monsieur Xatu?” he asked, the acuteness of the question startling me.

“Just how did you-” I spluttered, totally caught off by his remark.

The Sneasel merely smirked as he stopped playing with his chain. “I’m a genius,” was all that Javas said before he left the room, leaving the rest of the Geese bewildered. I gave a small cough to get back their attention before I continued where Javas had left off.

“Anyway,” I started, “as Javas said, I’m going to see Xatu tomorrow with the Chief. While I’m gone, Leon will be the head honcho here, so report to him for anything I’m supposed to be in charge of. I trust you all will be the same when I return.”

“That goes without saying, Lucied,” said Larmo, saluting with the other Geese. After that, they all went out of the room, chatting excitedly as they did. Leon bade me a good night too as he went into his own room. Sighing deeply, I flopped onto my own cozy bed and soon let sleep overtake me, knowing that tomorrow was another big day…

Knightblazer

[Shen]

OOC: Wow, rust. already, you've completed all seven trials?! I've only done two...at the moment, I'm just glad you didn't catch up to my guys, right outside that room...well, here's to good luck.

IC:
Tunnels under Mt. Blaze
Sublevels 6-8

"Just begun?" Zhunjai asked, "What do you mean?"

"I mean that we've got more rooms like the Room of Greed ahead." I closed my eyes and turned away from the writing to face her. "Greed is one of the Seven Deadly Sins, right? Well, the next few rooms have powers pertaining to these sins. We've got six more challenges ahead, at the very least. I only hope we can resist these mundane wiles."

"Wait, wait, wait..." Yanira's voice had an edge of panic in it. "We've got more?! I hardly survived the last room...I'm not sure I can do it another six times-"

"Without my help." I interrupted. "We'll be fine, as long as we stick up for each other. No one gets left be-" I halted. My keen ears heard something approaching. "D'you hear that?"

"It's getting closer." Zhunjai obviously felt it through the earth.

"What?!" Yanira's panic was very evident now. She couldn't hear as well as Zhunjai or I could..."What's getting closer?!"

"Whatever it is, I-" Just then, a roaring voice interrupted me.

"You fail!"

"What the hell?!" Yanira yelled.

"I'm guessing that Team Aqua's behind us, and they failed one of the mountain's tests." I shouted above the din that voice had set off. "Let's get out of here!"

We began running recklessly down the narrow tunnel, dodging Zubat and rocks that seemed to materialize in front of us out of nowhere. Thankfully, we had all recieved more energy in the panic caused by Team Aqua's arrival. As we began to grow tired, I grabbed a piece of bread from my pack, broke it into three pieces, and gave two of them to Zhunjai and Yanira. I ate the third. The shaking and the falling rocks ceased soon after, but we never let up our speed.

It was only a matter of timne before we tired out. And this time, we stopped right at the entrance of another room. I looked up at another sign.

Zimmer der Trägheit

"Room of Sloth..." I translated. "This won't end well."

After catching our breath, and prepared to enter the next room, but...

"Wait!" I said, realizing something, "Don't enter. That is the trap of Sloth. We have to look for another way." They nodded, and we backtracked a little, finding a branching path that we'd passed earlier.

I soon found another set of writing: So, you barely made it past Sloth, huh? Dang...I was hoping at least one victim for Sloth...oh well. You're further behind than you think. One especially skilled Kabutops has made it past the first six sins, but failed at one crucial sin. Don't get full of yourselves, now. Ayway, I grow tired of writing these ridiculous notes for you every ten minutes. Let's talk real soon, shall we? I'll just send a little help for you. I've kept this poor soul for a couple of months now. Good luck...

"A little help?" I was officially confused now. "Who's he gonna send."

"I think that'd be me..." A voice said behind us. I spun around, startled.

A Charmander had appeared behind us, a timid-looking thing...I felt sorry for him, he was covered in dirt and grime, and he even had a scar on wait...I looked closer, and gasped silently. He had a scar, exactly like mine, except on his right eye.

"Who're you?" Then, feeling this was a little harsh, I asked, "You alright?"

The fire lizard nodded. "Yeah, I'll be fine...my name's Roy. I've been the Pyro Dragon's prisoner for a couple of months now. I dunno why he let me out, but it can't be good..."

"Pyro Dragon...The legendary guardian of the Autumn Stone?!" I nodded in half-triumph. "I should've expected as much...I just never realized he was one to play a deadly game with others' souls."

Roy chuckled. "You'd be surprised what he'd do..."

"Not anymore...c'mon, we might as well get on with this God-forsaken challenge..." We began walking through the tunnel again, but I realized Roy wasn't with us, and spun around in concern. "You coming?"

He looked up suddenly, confused, and nodded. "Sure, I guess..." He cought up to us, and we made our way to the next room. There was another sign.

Zimmer der Sünden

"Oh boy..."

"What?" The other three asked, alarmed.

"It translates 'Room of Sins.' I can only imagine that means that we'll face many of the five remaining sins left, if not all."

Zhunjai looked into the dark room, a confident look on her face. "Well, we aren't solving anything by standing here. Let's help each other through this, and we'll make it out fine..."

The rest of us nodded as one, and we entered together.

Immediately, I lost sight, feel, and smell of the other three. I looked around, then passed it of as part of one challenge. I waited...I noticed Zhunjai step out of the darkness and walk towards me.

"Zhunjai? Where are the others?"

"Who cares? All there is now is you and me." She was now inches from my face. "I want you, Landon. I want you to take me and-"

"Woah, Zhunjai, wait a second! What do you mean 'who cares?!' That's not like you at all!"

"I've been changing in here Landon, waiting for the right moment to be alone with you...and now, I want you to take me, and make me whole. I need you..." She leaned forward to steal a kiss from me.

I finally realized what this was. I shoved her away. "Away from me, Lust! I won't fall for your tricks this time."

The Zhunjai-copy stood up and began to shimmer in dark power. "Oh poo. Almost had me a hunky one, too..." She faded into the darkness once more.

A hunky one?! Lust sure is a wacky one, that's for sure. I awaited the next challenge. Only the room lit up at once, and I was able to see the others again.

"You all made it through then?"

They nodded. Yanira chuckled. "I can only guess what you and Zhunjai saw, hehehe!"

We blushed, but we knew it to be true. "Yeah, and you?" I shot venomously.

"Only a whole bunch of male Wartortles, clamoring all over me. I'm just glad I didn't suffocate..." She rubbed her neck painfully.

We didn't have anymore timne to talk, because Moltres appeared in a flash of fire at the top of the room and dove for us.

"Landon, which one is this?!" Roy yelled.

I dove as Moltres struck, his beak inches from severing my hind feet from my body. "I can only guess Pride or Wrath. Don't go after revenge if we see something that would spark it in us..." The I remembered the note from earlier. "And remember the note's advice: don't get to full of yourselves! Just fight to win!"

I dove aside again as Moltres pursued me. Gee, I seemed to be the target of the day, don't I?! Nonetheless, I countered with a Thunder. Moltres screamed as it hit, but shook of the attack and continued his own. "Zhunjai, use Rock Tomb!"

A few of giant rocks fell on top of Moltres suddenly, slowing it down. "My turn!" I heard Yanira say before she attacked with a Hydro Pump. Moltres screamed and turned to attack her, but I leapt at the bird of fire and struck with a well-placed Mega Kick. Moltres went flying into the wall, causing a small avalanche to engulf it.

"Stand ready, and don't give yourselves pats on the back." I told the others hurriedly. I knew Moltres couldn't be finished yet. "That'll cause you to fail the Pride challenge."

The others nodded, and took battle stances, ready for the onslaught of fire that was sure to come. Sure enough, a Fire Blast shot out of the pile, right at us. Yanira neutralized it with a Hydro Pump. Moltres erupted from the dirt and flew on a collision course, right for us.

"Attack as one. GO!" I shot out with another Thunder. Zhunjai chose to use Rock Slide, Yanira fought with her usual Hydro Pump, and Roy attacked with a Fire Blast of his own. The multi-elemental strike hit as one.

Moltres tumbled from the billowing smoke, severely damaged. We didn't cheer, we just prepared again. Once we saw Moltres' form slump and shift into three Gengar, we relaxed.

"Well, at least Wrath is done. Pride will most likely be the one to continue with the other two..." I sighed. As the room began to shift again, I muttered, "Here we go..."

The food from the Greed room appeared in front of us again. I laughed. "We did this once, it only gets easier. I wonder if the Pyro Dragon is getting soft on us?"

More Gengar appeared and began grabbing at the food. He must have an army of Ghost pokemon working for him. The Gengar began tearing at the food, but I ignored them, as did the rest of the troupe. They grew haughty at seeing this, and brought a whole buch of food in front of us and began to tempt us and eat it in front of us.

"Not gonna work, guys." Roy said, before he blasted them away with a Flamethrower. I got rid of the rest with a Thunderbolt. They wailed as they were forced back to the netherworld they came from.

"One left..."

[TVTMaster]

OOC: I'm suffieciently bored to continue RPing. That, of course, means DT is gonna be able to beat Rust to the stone. Which is good. I don't know if he's DARK or DG, but either way Aqua won't have a thing to resist DARK and DG for the remainder of the RP other than brute force.

Waterfall Chasm, Seratine

Eretan was at the other side. And the spire had run out. "Darn! How am I gonna get to the other side now?" That was Pin'orcen. Eretan stood, carefully observing the crabs. They walked off, falling into the chasm... and onto the body of the salamander, which was now about a foot long, as more primitive pokemon swarmed to it. "My god... it's the dragon." "What?" "It's getting bigger. Notice the ridges on its backk. Wings. Some of those little sludge creatures are dripping on it. It's growing." Eretan saw it, the crabs swarming into a mass. Soon it was larger, and it began to stir.

"Jump. Aim for that patch of stone. I don't see anything alive." Cub jumped, but the seemingly flat slate broke underfoot, and tiny creatures with broken pieces on their heads began to run for the dragon. Luckily, there was bare dirt underneath that. "I'll go." Pin'orcen jumped, more carefully, landing next to Cub. "I'm going now! Yeah!" Rowan jumped... and missed. He bit onto the ledge, which began to move. The green fuzz built up on the lizard, now two feet long. Wings. "Dang it." Eretan jumped, the Detect Band compressing his body uncomfortably. Grabbing Rown, he pulled him up. "That thing's getting real big! I wanna--" "Shh. They're as susceptible to noise as we are when sleeping."

"How do you know that?" "I... I have no idea." They proceeded, facing a maze of running water, that froze in patches to direct more. This ice would melt, and reform in other places, switching the flow in a way that seemed so natural yet complex. The little flower sac pokemon breathed from the water, and the ray-like pokemon started to stir. "We have to get down there. Fast." "Then jump." "It'll wake up." "With any luck, the stone will belong to me before then. The Swarm Dragon won't be able to reach me." "... Eretan. How did you know its name?" "I... it's a growing sense. It's been there since I entered." "Well, go ahead." "No. The Lyelan could be hurt. I don't want to have part in disrupting the balance." "Wait. I'm starting to get it, too. I knew that they were Lyelan."

They were to jump, but the water stopped. A large stone had plugged the exit. "No! Ren must have ben trying to keep the escaping crabs in! He doesn't know it'll destroy this place!" "On the plus side, there's nothing to stop us from..." Spoke too soon. The salamander awoke. A shelf opened, illuminated by a strange glow. Two identical pokemon came out, glossy black orbs with a pink energy spike above their heads. "Arran... the Swarm Dragon... has awakened!" The eyes sped for the salamander, which screeched, summoning the orbs and the stirring pokemon.

Eretan watched in horror as the pokemon sped for the body. It became more draconic, spikes forming from the slate pokemon. Slatelet. "Pin'orcen! Bubblebeam!" "The cave is sealed--" Eretan used Leaf Storm, bursting open the rock. "Right. I'll call Neo." Pin'orcen raised his claws, forming a film and channeling air into the claw chamber. Bubbles shot out, flying into the sky as Ren and his team departed from the pond, thinking their mission over. "Arran... is AWAKE!" Eretan saw the stone at the bottom. He dove...

[Lord Celebi]

Blaze Maze

I woke up, strapped to something. I tried moving my arms, but they were strapped. So were my legs. Immediately, a light went on. A... human walked up to me. Humans were extinct... How... how could one be here?

"You are prideful of your self," The human asked.

"Yes," I said. I spit in his face, "You can't keep me here forever!"

"Oh, yes, I can!" The man said, "But you won't be here for too long."

I looked up. I was strapped to a wheel. The wheel had spikes on the side. I don't think I was an all-terrain wagon wheel. It was something weird. I wondered why I was here, and not being hung by a razor pendulum or something.

"You are prideful of yourself, and therefore, you shall pay the price. You shall..." The man paused, "Be broken on the wheel!"

"Huh?" I said. Immediately, The man brought up a large mallet and pounded it on my limbs, breaking each of them. He tied my broken limbs into the spokes of the wheel and began to spin the wheel around.

Murkrow were released into the room. I assumed I was going to rot to death and be eaten by birds... This is the wheeel. Ingenious. It must be a human execution method. The wheel spinned to a slow stop as the birds began to peck at me. I used a Hyper Beam and threw one of the birds out of the sky. I then used my arm to saw through one of the spokes, freeing one of my broken arms.

Immediately, it was healed. This place was almost magic. I sawed through the other spokes and pinned down the human, "Who are you?"

"The Pyro Dragon," The human smiled and said.

[Knightblazer]

[Wild Geese Barracks]::[Lesalas City]::[DARK Territory]
Hour Of Mew – Before Departure

Leon woke me up early the next morning, helping me to grab a few Oran Berries and Apples into my bundle before slinging it over my neck. After making sure that I had completely recovered, the Grovyle supported my still rather unsteady legs as we headed down to the Chief’s… palace. A few of the Windblazers stood guard there, but immediately let me pass when they realized who I was. Guess being famous did have it benefits…

Both of us trudged down the long, gigantic hallway, passing by many piles of gifts and presents. Mentally I still continued to wonder just how did the Chief survive under all those wrapped parcels…

“Do you really think that Xatu will know about the Stone’s origin?” he asked me.

I shrugged, coupled with yet another one of my trademark sighs. “I seriously don’t know, Leon…” I replied under my breath, “But if he knows about the stones, then there may be a good chance that he would know about their origins…”

“What happens if he doesn’t know? It happens at times, y’know…”

“I do,” I answered, “but if it happens, it happens. I’ll deal with it when it comes along,” I said with a grin. Leon merely sighed and rolled his eyes in response.

Soon, we reached the twin oaken portals that lead to the Chief’s room. Sighing deeply, Leon grabbed the handles and opened them, revealing Chief wide-awake, and currently looking at yet another of his presents in disproval. I chuckled when I saw what it was. A bottle of Oran Cider. How could they lug down so much…? He seemed to sigh as he opened the bottle and chucked it down. I grinned as Leon and I finally got his attention by sitting on his monstrous bed.

“Hello, Chief,” I greeted, “So, you’re ready to go, I presume?”

Knightblazer

[Shen]

OOC: Hey, TVT, you never know what Aqua might do. Also, what decides who gets the stone is good RPing and the amount of posts enetered. So I could get it, or rust.

IC:
Tunnels beneath Mt. Blaze
Sublevel 8

We waited, resting our resolve before the final challenge. We also kept cool heads, instead of congratulating eachother and ourselves. Pride was ever-present, haunting us until we made the fatal mistake of handing ourselves over to it. Any minute now...

The light faded once more, leaving the four of us in the dark. Strange, though. We could still see each other. I looked around, puzzled as to the Pyro Dragon's tricks. What was he planning?

Immediately, my life began to flash before my eyes. I shook my head. I'm not dying!...am I? I still felt whole, so I guess this is the beginning of the challenge. I sighed in relief.

"Is this your life, Landon?" I heard Roy ask.

"You can see it too?" I saw him nod. "Yes, this is my childhood. I'm not sure how far back this is though..."

"Wait, is that my sister?!" Yanira cried.

I looked around and spotted the identical Wartortle image. "Yes, that'd be her alright." Then, I caught sight of my parents, and tears sprang to my eyes. "No..." I remembered this day. Was it only two months ago?

"Wait, those are those bullies, aren't they?" Zhunjai said. I looked in the direction she was facing, and spotted the murderers.

"Yeah, those are them..." My voice cracked as I said this. I watched as the Golem demanded payment for us living in 'their' canyon. My father refused, and the Golem leapt on him, pounding at his helpless form. I jerked my gaze away, unable to look as my father was killed mercilessly.

I heard Yanira and Zhunjai gasp, and Roy muttered harshly under his breath. my fathers cries of pain rang in my ears as they faded with his life. I held back a sob that threatened to burst from my throat. "Oh Landon..." Zunjai ran over to my shuddering form and put a comforting paw on my back.

The scene continued, the sounds vivid in my ears...and memory. I hard Yanira curse loudly as the image of her sister's death came up. I could do nothing to block out the terrible sounds of Trais' and my mother's death. Finally, the memory faded from my vision as the part where i fell in the fissure passed. We were all engulfed in darkness once more.

Then, another scene erupted into life...one that had only happened a couple hours ago. My eye was opened wide as I saw Cameron and I leaping around falling boulders and boiling lava. I understood the Dragon's sheme this time. he was showing me things I most wanted in this world: my family and my best friend. however, I kept my envy locked inside. I had all I needed. I have friends with me. The love of my life is here, too. I have a wonderful home, and a Team to protect. Everything I aspired to be has come to fruition. And finally, I had hope that Cameron was still alive.

As these thoughts filled me and lifted my grief, the scene ended, and light bathed us once more. I sighed once more in relief, and smiled to the others.

"I guess we passed the test?" Zhunjai asked.

"I think that one was for me, and maybe Yanira, since her sister was there too." I explained my thoughts to them. "He knew he couldn't have all of us, so he tried to get as many as he could."

Yanira walked over to me, her face lined with sadness. "I'm sorry Landon...I...I almost failed that one. You were with my sister your whole life, and you were there in her last minutes. I haven't seen her for years, and I felt almost envious of you..."

"There's no need to apologize to me!" I said, startled by her behavior. "It's only natural you felt that way, because you missed your sister, right?" She nodded. "S'okay." I patted her shoulder as best I could reach. She was pretty tall, after all.

"Thanks Landon. I needed that."

I winked. "No prob. Now, let's see what we could do about our little Dragon problem, shall we?"

"A problem, am I?" came a gigantic voice.

"What was that?"

"Guess."

I looked up to the cieling, but finding nothing there, I shouted to the air, "You are the Pyro Dragon, then?"

"Bingo." Harsh laughter swept through the room. "Don't think your problems are over yet. You're only half done, and this game has yet to get interesting!" The voice faded into nothingness.

"Damnit...let's get this over with. I'm tired of being a play toy for this overgrown lizard." I said with fiery determination. The others agreed, and we ran through the exit at the other side of the room.

This tunnel was rather short, leading into a small cavern. It's size didn't matter though.

The walls were lined with a large array of weapons: swords, maces, morning stars, flails, spears, and axes, among other numerous devices of battle. the opposite wall was lined with armor, shields, and other protective items.

"I suppose we're expected to grab some tools and fight for our lives?" Zhunjai asked haughtily.

Roy nodded half-heartedly. "This is where I lost and was turned over to the Pyro Dragon as a slave..." He looked up at me. "The four of us are expected to fight his legion of mind-slave pokemon. Most of them, to the death."

"No way around that?" I asked the Charmander. He shook his head.

"If we lose, or retreat, our souls are forfeit."

I gave an exasperated sigh. "Great...well, let's follow his instructions...for now." I walked over to the weapons and grabbed a shirasaya, testing its weight first. I quiclky pulled the sword from its sheath and marveled at the workmanship of the blade.

Zhunjai decided to use a long footman's mace, while Roy opted for a battleaxe. Yanira hesitated before choosing a spear from the impressive collection.

I resheathed the sword and grabbed a breastplate from the wall that was my size. i strapped it on and pulled down some leg guards as well, just in case. I finished of with a wonderfully-crafted helmet obviously made for Pikachus. Two holes on top were positioned for my ears.

I turned to the others and asked, "What d'you think?"

[Neo Emolga]

OOC: Sorry for the delay, I know you’ve been waiting…

Lesalas, DARK Territory

Another bottle of Oran Cider. Before, I was rejoicing to drink this stuff again, now… I was getting pretty near sick of it. Meanwhile, this bed was gigantic. If these sheets were any bigger and thicker, I would be at risk drowning in it…

And then, Lucied and Leon had come through the doors. This was just embarrassing to have me setting here among all this stuff sitting in this bed that could comfortably fit an oversized Snorlax. All this pampering and attention made me feel like a baby Pichu again…

“Hello, Chief,” Lucied told me, “So, you’re ready to go, I presume?”

“Sure thing.” I told him, getting out of the bed, “I think I need some time out of here anyway. I’ve gotten five extra bottles of Oran Cider… and ugh… even the grinding press to make the stuff myself…”

Anyway, we needed some supplies for the trip. Sure, I could fly there, but Lucied and Leon couldn’t, and as far as I was aware, they weren’t Windblazers who had their own mounts.

I got my pack ready, armed with some extra food, healing supplies such as more Oran Berries and Heal Seeds, and just in case of an emergency, an Escape Orb.

“Okay, let’s get going.” I told Lucied, “I want to know what’s going to happen to us and these stones…”

[Knightblazer]

OOC: Now we can get this party started! XD

[Chief’s House]::[Lesalas City]::[DARK Territory]
Hour Of Articuno – Departure

“Sure thing.” He told me as he got out of the bed, “I think I need some time out of here anyway. I’ve gotten five extra bottles of Oran Cider… and ugh… even the grinding press to make the stuff myself…”

I grimaced as he grabbed his knapsack and stuffed a couple of Oran Berries, Heal Seeds, Apples and lots of other stuff, including an Escape Orb. Somehow I’ve never gotten used to those orbs… mainly because they reminded me of Ifrit…

“Okay, let’s get going,” he said, “I want to know what’s going to happen to us and these stones…”

I nodded as I got up from his bed. Together, we exited the palace and upon the down sunny streets of Lesalas City. My legs were still tad numb, but Leon insisted on supporting me, at least until the gates. The few early ones now trotting upon the streets greeted us as we walked towards the gates of Lesalas, where we soon reached. The Chief always though I was mount-less, so he was surprised when he saw my friend, Shriek Ironclad, standing beside his own mount, whose name I sorta forgot…

“Heh, we aren’t called the Wild Geese for nuthin’,” I remarked with a grin as I hopped aboard the ironclad bird. Shriek turned and grinned at e as he said, “So, to Great Canyon, eh?”

“Yeah,” I replied with a nod. Leon sighed deeply, a habit he picked up from me, before saying, “Lucied, whatever you do… make sure you come back in one piece. That trip from Aqua territory was troublesome enough; just don’t let me become the permanent head of the Geese, and that’s fine.”

“Will do, pal,” I joked with a salute. The Grovyle sighed and rolled his eyes, but a grin was etched upon his face. He always knew I would return… somehow, be it from a dangerous mission or not. It was a promise I kept. I would return… even at all costs…

“We’d better go, Boss,” addressed Shriek as he prepared himself for flight. I gripped on the reins a bit tightly – my skills were a bit rusty after all. Turning my head towards the Chief, I asked him, “Shall we leave?”

“Of course,” he replied with one of his bright smiles as he readied his mount. Guess he hadn’t gotten used to his own wings yet…

“Heh. Hold your own wings tight, Chief, coz’ here we go!” As I said that with another flashy grin, Shriek gave out a cry as he flapped his metallic wings, dust and loose earth swirling in eddies around us. The Chief’s mount soon followed, and Leon waved goodbye to us as we ascended into the blue yonder above, among the clouds.

“Come back in one piece!” the Grovyle yelled as we rose into the skies.

“I will,” I muttered softly, “And I’ll make sure I do…

…even if it costs everything I have…

…even if its my life.

Knightblazer

[Neo Emolga]

OOC: Eh, you’re kind of bunnying me a little too much, KB. I’m okay with what you said, but I’d prefer it if you didn’t RP my character for me…

En Route toward Great Canyon

Lucied had his own mount… much to my surprise. Even though he wasn’t a Windblazer, I guess he too saw the value of flying. It was much faster… and way more thrilling…

As for me, even though I could fly on my own, I had taken Narsaka with me. Just because I had gotten the wings didn’t mean I would never fly with him again. And truthfully, I should have been training myself with these new wings, but the Festival of Feathers was quite the distraction. In time though, in time…

We still had a lot to pass over, but it was nice to spend the time. Leon was a good guy, even though there was a part of me that wanted Lucied to become a Windblazer than part of the Wild Geese, but I respected his decision. After all, we needed the balance between the multiple divisions in DARK. Too many Windblazers would mean not enough ground coverage.

Great Canyon, Delta Green Territory

Landing on the Hill of the Ancients was easy. Most of the ground was firm and flat, and it was easy to have a good footing. Narsaka landed on the ground, and I got off of him. As I put my own two feet on the ground, I looked ahead to see the back of Xatu, staring into the setting sun. I told Narsaka to wait, and then I approached Xatu.

“Xatu, are you the one who can see into the future?” I asked him, wondering if he was the Xatu we were really looking for.

He was silent though. I wasn’t sure if he was in deep meditation, or he simply didn’t hear me. Either way, I was going to have to try and get his attention. I turned to his back, firmly grabbed one of his feathers, and plucked it. That… certainly was enough to get his attention…

“GWAHOOO!” He suddenly shouted, spinning around and spreading his wings in fury.

“Relax.” I told him, not really afraid of his display that was supposed to be intimidating, “My name is Neo, and his Mightyena here is my friend and associate Lucied.”

He folded his wings back up and nodded, but then he saw something very usual. I figured it would be sooner or later…

“A Pikachu with wings?” He asked, finding that surprising.

“That’s right, that’s the power of the Summer Stone.” I told him, letting him know the details, “I had found it and completely absorbed it. Meanwhile, Lucied here has taken in the Stone of Winter. But… now that we’re here before you, what is the real purpose of the stones?”

Xatu was quiet for a moment…

“Show me your hand.” He requested, wanting to get a better picture of it himself.

I then held it out for him, and he placed his wing on it. He then shut his eyes with concentrated meditation, and began speaking…

“Indeed, you are the full holder of the Summer Stone.” He told me, confirming it, “The ever growing presence of severe thunderstorms, violent hurricanes and tornadoes echoes from within your soul. You were destined to be the only one of your kind that would soar the skies. However, what you don’t know is why the stones were created. They were created… by dragons.”

“You mean dragon Pokémon?” I asked, beginning to think it over.

“There were times when dragon Pokémon were even more powerful than the legendaries.” Xatu told me, “The reasons the stones exist is because one day, after the dragon Pokémon were removed from their powerful hold over the world, they pooled their powers into single, seasonal stones, in hope that one day, a dragon Pokémon worthy enough to take pass the trials that lay before each stone would come and take the power, and reclaim what was once theirs.”

Well, that was certainly interesting. That could explain the reason why both Lucied and I had to fight those strange guardians…

“I guess these are the same reasons why some dragon Pokémon can learn electric, fire, and ice attacks…”

“Their power with those attacks is limited, hence the reasoning for the stones.” Xatu continued, “A Dragonite that had taken in the Stone of Winter would gain powers of ice and water far amplified beyond their imagination. However… I see that was never meant to be…”

It was odd… definitely. Still though, if we were holding the stones, what did that mean for us?

“But… the thing here is… we definitely aren’t dragon Pokémon.” I told Xatu, “So what’s to happen now?”

Xatu was silent, and then he told us the truth…

“There will be some that will covet what you have gained, and try to kill you over it.” Xatu warned us both, “Upon death, the holder of the stone losses their powers, and the stone will appear again besides their body. Your soul cannot carry the Stone of Summer into the life after this one. Instead, it will be left behind… for someone else to take. Only a few of the dragon Pokémon remember the stone’s purpose, but not enough for you to fear them. However, anyone who desires your stone… may do the unspeakable to try and obtain it…”

I closed my eyes, and made it clear…

No murderer or enemy of mine would ever be getting this power…

[Knightblazer]

OOC: Sorry, Chief; but my post was kinda short...

Anyway, new plot now! Hope its actually accepcted...

[Hill Of The Ancients]::[Great Canyon]::[Delta Green Territory]
Hour Of Moltres – Arrival

Landing, of course, proved to be a simple task. After about an hour or so after flight, Shriek and the Chief’s mount landed nicely upon the ground. Both of us dismounted, and the Chief gestured for his to stop as he spotted Xatu. “Xatu, are you the one who can see into the future?” he asked, walking towards the bird as he did so, clearly unsure if he was the correct Xatu. You wouldn’t believe how many fakers there were around these parts…

However, the bird did not respond. I mentally guessed he was mediating or something, but evidently the Chief decided to grab the Xatu’s attention. He turned towards the psychic bird’s back, grabbed one of the feathers, and pulled it forcefully. I winced – that should grab his attention…

“GWAHOOO!” He suddenly shouted, spinning around and spreading his wings in fury. I sweatdropped. This was the Xatu alright…

“Relax,” the Chief told him, clearly not taken aback by his sudden display, “My name is Neo, and his Mightyena here is my friend and associate Lucied.”

The bird quickly composed himself and folded his wings back up and nodded, but then he saw something the glorious, yellow wings that stood out like a sore thumb. “A Pikachu with wings?” He asked, finding that surprising.

“That’s right, that’s the power of the Summer Stone,” the Chief told him, deciding not to beat about the bush, “I had found it and completely absorbed it. Meanwhile, Lucied here has taken in the Stone of Winter. But… now that we’re here before you, what is the real purpose of the stones?”

Xatu was quiet for a moment…

“Show me your hand.” He requested, clearly wanting to get a better picture of it himself. The Chief did, and he placed his wing on it. He then shut his eyes with concentrated meditation, and began speaking…

“Indeed, you are the full holder of the Summer Stone.” He said, confirming it, “The ever growing presence of severe thunderstorms, violent hurricanes and tornadoes echoes from within your soul. You were destined to be the only one of your kind that would soar the skies. However, what you don’t know is why the stones were created. They were created… by dragons.”

“You mean dragon Pokémon?” he asked. I arched an eyebrow. Dragon Pokemon…? Just why did that phrase seem so familiar…?

“There were times when dragon Pokémon were even more powerful than the legendaries.” Xatu said, “The reasons the stones exist is because one day, after the dragon Pokémon were removed from their powerful hold over the world, they pooled their powers into single, seasonal stones, in hope that one day, a dragon Pokémon worthy enough to take pass the trials that lay before each stone would come and take the power, and reclaim what was once theirs.”

Well, that was a nice tibia of information. Guessed that was why the Chief an I had such a fun time underground with those guardians…

“I guess these are the same reasons why some dragon Pokémon can learn electric, fire, and ice attacks…” muttered the Chief, his thoughts clearly onto that subject now.

“Their power with those attacks is limited, hence the reasoning for the stones.” Xatu continued, “A Dragonite that had taken in the Stone of Winter would gain powers of ice and water far amplified beyond their imagination. However… I see that was never meant to be…”

“But… the thing here is… we definitely aren’t dragon Pokémon.” The Chief told Xatu, “So what’s to happen now?”

Xatu was silent, and then he told us the truth… one that was rather shocking…

“There will be some that will covet what you have gained, and try to kill you over it.” Xatu warned us both, “Upon death, the holder of the stone losses their powers, and the stone will appear again besides their body. Your soul cannot carry the Stone of Summer into the life after this one. Instead, it will be left behind… for someone else to take. Only a few of the dragon Pokémon remember the stone’s purpose, but not enough for you to fear them. However, anyone who desires your stone… may do the unspeakable to try and obtain it…”

I sighed. “Great. Now we have to steer clear anything that’s a dragon. Just great. My life has now become ten times more fun.”

It was then Xatu turned to look at me as well. “And you are… the holder of the Winter Stone?” he asked. I nodded in response. “Hold out your hand as well,” he instructed as he did to the Chief just now. I did, and when he mediated, his eyes opened in surprise in clear shock.

“…You…” he started softly, “You… what is your name again?”

“Lucied,” I replied simply. The Xatu starred at me for a while, and then dropped my paw and turned towards the sun once again. I looked at him for a while as time slowly crept by. After a few minutes, the bird turned back towards me again.

“The Four Stones…” he started, “were more than just keepers of the dragon power. They are also… keys…”

“Keys?” I asked, “to what?”

“The keys of Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter; the keys of four shall lead thy one towards the desire’s lair,” he seemed to chant under his breath. “The stones were the keys towards the four hidden guardians, each one with power surpassing even the Legendaries… and the four were guardians themselves to yet a final, supreme beast.”

I was most intrigued now… “And they are…?”

“The one of Spring – the Stone of Life, Endless and Time beyond; it was the key of Olivia, Guardian Of Charity and Kindness. Summer – the infusion of Hope and inner strength; twas thy road to Zephyr, Bringer Of Hope. Autumn – beholder of Courage and bravery; thy shalt unlock the doors to Justine, the Keeper Of Courage. And the Winter Stone – one of freedom, with its gentle waters and unyielding love – the way to Raftina, the Angel of Hope and Love. Those four were the guardians of the final one…”

“So Olivia, Justine, Zephyr and Raftina…” I muttered the names, finding them eerily familiar. “And what about… the last one?” Somehow, I had a bad feeling about this question…

“The last one, the one called by many names. But he was known as the Wolf Of Twilight Desire… the embodiment of Desire and Passion; the Twilight One… Lucied.”

Knightblazer

[Lord Celebi]

Blaze Maze

"You don't look like much of a Dragon..." I said, poising to strike. Humans would be easy prey. I hunted several down for easy money earlier in my life, and he would be no different.

"Its only a codename to lure people to my maze," He said.

"Why?" I asked.

"I guard a sacred relic that I cannot make any use of... The Stone of Autumn," He said, "Only Pokemon can use this to its full power."

"That's what I desire!" I said, posion dripping from my scythes, "Hand it over!"

"All in good time," He said, "First, you need to hear why I am intending to give you the stone..."

"Just give me the damn stone!" I said, but Pyro didn't hear me. Immediately, something happened, and I was in a battlefield. Humans and Pokemon were fighting behind me. The Pyro Dragon stood in the middle. I could see this was his Gengar illusion.

"Long ago... Mewtwo, the legendary Pokemon created by humans, completely resented them. He and Deoxys, another corrupt legendary Pokemon, began preparations to wipe them... off the planet," Pyro said. The scene behind me showed illusions of Mewtwo and Deoxys planning a battle, "With their immense power, they gathered hordes of Pokemon and legendarys onto their side, and began attacking large human cities, slaughtering them by the millions."

"The humans mounted an oppositon and began to attack with their superior technology. Although they had the upperhand in technology, nothing could beat the brute force and psychic power of the army. Their head general, a Tyranitar, bathed in the blood of murdered humans... The ones that he killed operating machines..." Now it showed a lake full of blood with a Tyranitar inside of it. Several bubbles popped up as heads and body parts floated to the top of the bloody lake. A human emerged from the blood, but Tyranitar dunked him under the blood, drowning him, "After ten years of war, there were few humans left. They continued to be hunted down until... I was the last one."

Not surprising. I haven't seen a human for several years, "Some say that the humans who wanted to hide created a vaccine to turn themselves into Pokemon... Some say that they were all slaughtered. Some say they got on a spaceship and left completely... They were all slaughtered, I can assure of that. Deoxys and Mewtwo destroyed all human technology... None exists today, and not even I can recreate it without giving away my position."

"That is where you come in..." Pyro smiled, "I need someone who isn't distracted by the other six sins... But I need someone with Pride in theirselves... One who is prideful in oneself of species... Or friends... to continue going... to avenge my species."

Immediately, Pyro grew extremely old. His beard now touched the floor, "Please... Kill Deoxys and Mewtwo with the power than I am bestowing upon you..."

Immediately, a stone appeared in the air. It came crashing down, and it was... absorbed into me...

"Please..." Pyro said and disappeared...

[Shen]

OOC: NOOOOOOO! That shouldn't really be the Stone of Autumn!...At least, not at it's fullest. After all, they're huge, aren't they? I also doubt someone would give it over so easily...Well, if there's still a portion of the Stone, my quest continues.

IC:
Tunnels under Mt. Blaze
Battle Preparation Room

"Wow...I never knew one's appearence could change so much by a simple addition of armor." Zhunjai spouted, impressed. "You look even tougher than before."

"Yeah, I wouldn't want to meet you on the battlefield." Yanira added.

"You're just saying that." I noted the fact that Yanira's statement had a little humor in it.

She chuckled. "You caught me. But now, it's our turn."

While they picked out their pieces of protective armor, I was busy over in another corner, praticing with the magnificent shirasaya I chose. The blade was the sharpest thing I'd ever seen, made of white folded steel. The handle blended perfectly with the oaken sheath, so it looked more like a normal piece of wood when sheathed. There was even a Samurai code etched perfectly onto the flat of the blade. Truly whoever made this was a mater blacksmith.

"Ready!" I heard Yanira say eagerly. I turned to inspect them. The armor they wor was sufficient, to say the least. Yanira's only consisted of a helm and wrist guards, since her shell was tough to penetrate. Roy chose some leather armor, so as to more easily move around. Zhunjai had a steel breastplate, some steel leg and wrist guards, and a helm with a faceplate.

"We might as well get some practice in. We'd lose our heads quickly out there if we go in inexperienced." I said. I looked in the next room, and found some perfect training dummies. I told the others, and we selected our training dummy and got to work.

I just tried simply swinging the blade into the dummy at first, but then, I opted for some more difficult maneuvers, dodging here and there, getting myself used to the armor I bore.

I had cut my dummy to ribbons when, suddenly, we heard the Pyro Dragon's voice ring out from a large chamber beside this room. "Enough practice. You're as ready as you'll ever be. Procede to the fighting arena for the first fight!"

"Well, here we go..." I put my resheathed shirasaya and hefted it on my shoulder. The others followed behind me out a gigantic pair of embroidered doors. We hasped when we saw what was beyond.

We were in a large underground Coliseum. The stands were full of cheering Gengar. All the Pyro Dragon's slaves were up there too. In the middle of the arena, stood...

"That's a human!" I hissed as I saw the being standing in the middle. His back was bent greatly, and he had a beard down to the floor. I felt sorry for the old human. "I thought that humans were killed by Mewtwo and Deoxys' excursions."

"Apparently, they missed one." Yanira said.

We walked forward to investigate. He spotted us, and smirked. "So, you're here. About time."

I recognized that voice! "Wait, you're the Pyro Dragon?!" HIs voice was so unlike that of an old one.

"Yeah, what of it? Oh, the body." He said, realizing why we were confused. Then, once again smirking, he wrapped himself in fire, like a cocoon. When it dissipated, he was a much younger human, standing proud and tall. "This more to your liking?"

"What the?! How-" Roy began.

"You will shut your mouth, little lizard." He shot at Roy. Roy quivered under his gaze. He then turned his attention back to me. "Your first fight will be a doozy. You see, I've enlisted the aid of a proud little Kabutops."

[Lord Celebi]

OOC: Err... the Pyro Dragon died... That's what I implied by disappeared.
IC:
Blaze Maze
Immediately, I began to turn a bright red. My shell glowed as the new cherry red color was being infused into me. The sides of my head now had some kind of... drooping similar to Groudon's. My inder body began to turn black. I had been infused with the Stone of Autumn.

I felt power rushing through my veins. It felt like lava coarsing... but it didn't hurt, it only emanated power. The cavern around me erupted in a spasm of lava and earthquake as my body adjusted to the newfound power. It was invigorating... The cavern continued to fall apart, as the final color change happened to my body: My scythes became a deep black, with blood red poison dripping from them... delicious...

"Oh, you're sacrifice will not be in vein, Pyro," I said, "Let's test this power!" I screamed. Immediately, I began to focus as an Earthquake happened under my feet. The cave wall began to collapse as I was surrounded by lava. Lava shot up and encased me, but it didn't hurt... It felt good to be surounded by lava. More and more rocks were falling down and melting in the lava.

"I'm bringing the whole mountain down! MUAHAHAHAHAHA!" I began cackling maniacally. The walls keeping the lava inside collapsed and the lava now seeped out into the rest of the Blaze Maze. I used the lava to propel myself up the mountain. The lava melted through all the rock as I reached the top once again. I came out of the top of the mountain as I watched the mountain begin to crack. I stood on top of the lava geyser as one large part of the mountain fell off.

Lava spilled out of the mountain, and down into Lapis cave, carving out a funnel for all of the rest of the lava to flow down. Chunks of rocks also flowed down as I saw the unsuspecting village of Seratine below. The lava continued to flow. More and more rocks traveled on the lava stream onto Seratine. Another part of the mountain exploded, and flowed down the ramp of lava that the previous lava had created. The rest of the mountain toppled upon itself and flowed down the path of lava to Seratine.

I jumped off the geyser and onto a stone floating on the lava. Let's cause some havoc on Seratine...

[Neo Emolga]

Hill of the Ancients, Great Canyon

So, the dragons were really the ones who were behind it. It seemed to make sense though, even if it wasn’t what I had expected…

“Great.” Lucied told me, looking a little downcast, “Now we have to steer clear anything that’s a dragon. Just great. My life has now become ten times more fun.”

“Lucied, it’s probably not that bad…” I told him, assuring him that we could still keep them on our side…

Meanwhile, Xatu had turned to Lucied…

“And you are… the holder of the Winter Stone?” he asked Lucied, “Hold out your hand as well.”

Lucied held out his paw and I simply watched. There… seemed to be another piece of the puzzle…

“…You…” he started softly, “You… what is your name again?”

Xatu seemed shocked, but I didn’t see how this was any different than what I had to do…

“Lucied.” He simply replied.

“The Four Stones…” he started, “were more than just keepers of the dragon power. They are also… keys…”

“Keys?” Lucied asked, “to what?”

I was wondering the same thing. I looked at my own two hands, and wondered what this was all about…

“The keys of Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter; the keys of four shall lead thy one towards the desire’s lair,” Xatu chanted under his breath, “The stones were the keys towards the four hidden guardians, each one with power surpassing even the Legendaries… and the four were guardians themselves to yet a final, supreme beast.”

Even… more guardians? I was concerned now, me fighting Rackal was not a pleasant experience with a guardian…

“And they are…?” Lucied asked.

“The one of Spring – the Stone of Life, Endless and Time beyond; it was the key of Olivia, Guardian Of Charity and Kindness. Summer – the infusion of Hope and inner strength; twas thy road to Zephyr, Bringer Of Hope. Autumn – beholder of Courage and bravery; thy shalt unlock the doors to Justine, the Keeper Of Courage. And the Winter Stone – one of freedom, with its gentle waters and unyielding love – the way to Raftina, the Angel of Hope and Love. Those four were the guardians of the final one…”

Okay, so… I guess they were actually good guardians… rather than what we had to face to get these things. I mean… a bringer of hope sounded good. But… how would we even find them?

“So Olivia, Justine, Zephyr and Raftina…” Lucied recalled, thinking it over, “And what about… the last one?”

“The last one, the one called by many names.” Xatu stated, “But he was known as the Wolf Of Twilight Desire… the embodiment of Desire and Passion; the Twilight One… Lucied.”

“WHAT!?” I shouted in shock… and surprise.

This was crazy. Lucied was… the final guardian? The “embodiment of Desire and Passion?” Wow… I mean… I didn’t even know what to say to that…

“Lucied…” I asked him, finding that story to be… really incredible, “You’re… ready the one? What does all this mean?”

However, before I could even get an answer, I heard a noise, and then saw Nathaniel, flying upon a Swellow. He was very quick, and once he landed, he didn’t waste another second.

“Neo… Lucied…” Nathaniel began with a tense voice, “We’ve got problems in Seratine. Mt Blaze erupted very badly, and a flow of lava is heading right to it. The mountains around Lapis Cave will delay it for a little while, but not for long.”

This was bad. Whatever was up with Lucied was going to have to wait…

Immediately, I spread my wings, and surged off of the canyon. Meanwhile, I used my powers to help speed up the air current around me, and I was flying at an incredible speed.

I had to protect Seratine…

[Knightblazer]

[Hill Of The Ancients]::[Great Canyon]::[Delta Green Territory]
Hour Of Raikou – Sudden Interruption

I was stunned.

That was all I could say, actually. I… was a guardian? The embodiment of Desire and Passion…? This seemed too… unreal… “WHAT?!” shouted the Chief in shock and surprise. I couldn’t blame him either – I myself was at a loss. But that could only explain just why I had so many déjà vu feelings recently, more so with those names and that story…

“Lucied…” the Chief asked me, “You’re… ready the one? What does all this mean?”

“I… don’t know…” I muttered at a loss. Things were just too complicated now…

Just then, Nathaniel arrived on his Swellow, sweat upon his forehead. Whatever it was, it wasn’t good… I could sense it. Immediately after his landing, the Sneasel rushed towards the Chief and gave him some very bad news. “Neo… Lucied…” he began with a tense voice, “We’ve got problems in Seratine. Mt Blaze erupted very badly, and a flow of lava is heading right to it. The mountains around Lapis Cave will delay it for a little while, but not for long.”

The Chief wasted no time, and immediately took off with his wings, his mount and Nathaniel following behind. I looked at their shrinking figures, my mind still shocked at the revelation. I was… a guardian…? Turning back to Xatu, I asked, “Are you sure… I’m the one…?”

“There is no other choice,” the bird said, “it is not coincidence that you were bestowed with the same name as a Guardian. But it is confusing on why you exist… the five were sealed exactly five centuries ago by humans, who feared their mighty power. But now the times are harsh again… and I guess that the Guardians have to be unsealed once more.”

“Where are they?” I demanded now.

“…I do not know…”

“Please, Xatu! Tell me! I need to-” I was abruptly cut off when I heard a voice in my head. One gentle and pure. Like the essence of kindness…

Great One! It went.

“Wha?” I said, whipping my head around in confusion. “Who are you? What are you?”

I am Raftina, milord, the voice said, I feel a hot wave coming straight where I rest… and destroy the one living above… Seratine… that is the place you call as…

I paled. Seratine? That was where the lava was heading!

“Go,” said Xatu, “Go… and save your companions.” I nodded, and hopped aboard Shriek.

“I can tell you one, thing, though…” said the psychic bird. “To unlock the guardians, only the wielder of the stone can unlock the doors leading to the Guardian… and only you alone can reawaken them. Remember that, Mightyena.”

I nodded once again, and clutched Shriek’s reins tight. The Skarmory knew where I was heading, and immediately took off into the skies, my mind focused on only one target: saving Seratine…

Knightblazer

[Lord Celebi]

Remains Island

The red human-like figure of the DNA Pokemon, Deoxys swooped down upon one of the towers on Remains Island. Mewtwo was there leaning on a wall. The Cat-clone Pokemon looked onto the horizon, as the erupting Mt. Blaze was visible for miles around.

"The die has been cast," Mewtwo said.

"Agreed..." Deoxys said, "Humanity is extinct. The Pyro Dragon is dead."

"That's not our problem," Mewtwo said, "The Stone was keeping him alive. He would only give it to one who he was ensured would kill us."

"So... We have another enemy? The keeper of the Stone of Autumn?" Deoxys asked.

"That is correct. Let's see how the events play out. He's more than likely going to find us... We have Justine right under our feet, remember," Mewtwo reminded Deoxys.

"What if he awakens Justine?" Deoxys asked.

"He's not even going to get on the island," Mewtwo ensured. The two Pokemon just stayed there for a few moments, not talking. Both watched the eruptin Mt. Blaze as it finally disappeared from the horizon and all that was left was stone and lava flowing down. Seratine was much more visible on the horizon to both Mewtwo and Deoxys. They both saw the lava continue towards it.

"Heh," Deoxys said, "Let's let him have fun with his new powers... let him become a little... arrogant... before we kill him."

"Agreed," Mewtwo said, "Let's watch Seratine burn in the meantime."

[Neo Emolga]

En Route toward Seratine

I flew as hard and as fast as I could. Surprisingly, I realized it was possible for me to fly further and faster than any other flying Pokémon. Still though, I had to be there to stop the lava from pouring into the city. I couldn’t wait for Lucied or even Narsaka, but they would both know where to find me. Even Nathaniel I had left behind with my massive rush of flying speed.

Shortly after, Seratine had come into view. Thankfully, it was still intact, but that didn’t mean we couldn’t prepare…

Seratine, DARK Territory

Already, they had plans underway. A very deep trench was being dug by many ground Pokémon, creating a chasm away from the city for the lava to pour into. Meanwhile, many water Pokémon were standing by, just waiting for the moment the lava would be coming down to soak it and cause it to harden again. As for me, they were happy to see me arrive. A strong gust of wind would be able to slow down the lava’s progression quite considerably.

“You’ve arrived just in time, Chief.” One of Seratine’s Pathfinder commanders told me, “It looks pretty bad up ahead, but the spreading out of the lava on the way to Seratine should thin it out.”

“Okay.” I told him, still feeling that the deeper the chasm was, the better, “Lucied should be on his way over here soon, and he’s got the Stone of Winter in his hands. We’re talking about a lot of extra water reinforcement if he makes it on time.”

I had a strong feeling he would though. Still, Seratine had completed the Stonewall, and it was even further protection against the lava if it overfilled the chasm and the water Pokémon and myself couldn’t hold it back. Still though, I watched as many Sandslash, Marrowak, and Dugtrio dug deeper and deeper into the ground, deep enough to almost form a canyon.

However, as I stood next to Shrike, the Nidoking Pathfinder Commander on the Stonewall, I saw a faint, glowing red in the distance. By now, I had suspected that the lava was reaching Lapis Cave and smothering it, but it was still buying us time to make an even bigger chasm.

Still though, as long as I was standing here, we weren’t going to lose Seratine. I would see to that…

[Lord Celebi]

Outside of Seratine

So... they had built trenches all around the city? Easily destroyed. I focused my power and created an Earthquake. The Earthquake moved the rocks that were from the shattered remains of Mt. Blaze into one of the trenches, allowing the lava to enter the city. The next wave of defense now came out at me.

Dozens of water Pokemon began to use water attacks on the lava, trying to cool it down. I couldn't have that. I focused once again to increase the speed of the lava. It was now comign down the hill faster than the water Pokemon could cool it down. The first water Pokemon was engulfed by the lava as I started another Earthquake to imbalance the water Pokemon, in order to kill them.

And the third line of defense... a Stone wall. I Earthquaked once again, and then used a Rock Tomb attack on the wall, bringing the middle of the wall down. The lava now entered Seratine until...

I hopped off the lava when I saw a Pikachu with wings. Interesting... He must be a stoneholder as well. Better to eliminate him now that have more enemies later. I redirected the flow of a fraction of the lava to the stoneholder, as I launched a vicious Rock Tomb attack against the Pikachu.

I hopped off the lava, letting it continue to flow down the hill, knowing I would be safe because of my stone power.

I slashed at the stoneholder with my new poison dripping from my scythes, "Hello Stoneholder... I am your executioner!"

[Knightblazer]

[Entrance]::[Seratine City]::[DARK Territory]
Hour Of Lugia – Arrival Of Chaos

I immediately leaped off Shriek at the moment he landed. The Skarmory quickly went to the others’ aid as I dashed into the city, the villagers being evacuated just for safety. However, most of the DARK members of Seratine had remained behind to defend their beloved home. I could almost grin. Passion…

Milord! Raftina’s voice called to me once again. Are you upon the surface? I can sense you…

“Yeah, I am…” I muttered, although I still wasn’t sure if I was hearing things. However, there was just something within me that urged to follow her voice. I didn’t know what it was… passion? Desire? Or… something more…? I sped by everyone, even the Chief as I mentally decided to follow Raftina.

Go down the stairs to the right, she instructed as I followed her directions. Banking right, I indeed did see a set of stair s leading down from the surface. Just how did that come about…?

Hurry, milord! Shouted Raftina, her voice glazed with anxiety. Normally, there would have been the seven cloisters for one to go through, but as it is a time of great peril, that must be forgone for now. Quickly! You have the Stone Of Winter in possession, yes?

“I do…” I muttered weakly yet again as I went down the stairs. The hole closed right after I had entered, sealing off and intruders. Quickly, I hurried down the stairs, the timeless void right below the countless steps. A few wild Pokemon fluttered past, but strangely didn’t make any move to attack me. Instead they were docile and respectful and bowed before me as if I was someone special…

After what seemed like forever, I landed upon the smooth, cold stone floor of the chamber. The earth seemed so familiar to me, as if I had lived here all my life… was it really true that I was the final guardian…? Nevertheless, I was sure Seratine’s fate depended on Raftina. As I padded towards the door, I read the inscription engraved upon it.

Angel Of Love,
Bringer Of Dawn,
The Seraphim Goat;
The Sacred Blood.

One who posses the freedom of waters and winds alike,
Open thy doors to the Angel, Raftina;
And let her love shine upon the masses

Milord…! Started Raftina once again, her voice startling me. Now it was as if she was besides me… Hurry! The Lapis Mountains can’t hold much longer…

Nodding towards myself, I placed my hand upon the engravings. A wave of blue pulse weaved through the door with a gentle humming sound. Then suddenly, the words glowed a royal blue as the glow spread and engulfed the entire door. It remained like that for a while until the glow shrunk until it was the size of a medium sized keyhole right in front of me. With a loud click echoing into the air, the doors rumbled and swung open, revealing a shrine. Two sapphire obelisks stood at the front and greeted me in as I entered, with more of these monoliths trailing towards the end of the passageway, where a Pokemon was suspended there in a sphere of ice.

You’re finally here, milord… after five centuries of slumber…

“Five centuries…?” I muttered in surprise as I stretched out a paw to touch the sphere. Immediately, cracks appeared all over the block, startling me. I leaped back as the ice shards fell and released the angelic winged Espeon in there. She fell towards the ground, but I managed to create a layer of ice below her to protect her from the razor sharp shards underneath. I bounded towards the winged Espeon and caught her. She opened her brilliant sapphire eyes and turned to look at me.

“You look… very different…” was all that she muttered before she got up on shaky legs.

“I would really want to ask questions later, but I guess that’ll be left for later. Now, we must back and save Seratine!” I said. Nodding in acknowledgement, the Espeon cleared the ice with a wave of her paw and a portal appeared in front of us.

“This will bring us back up,” she said.

“Alright,” I said with a nod, “let’s go!” With that, both of us bounded into the portal and back into the surface, just right in front of the Chief, who was rather shocked to see my sudden appearance… and the new angelic winged Espeon beside me. Now he wasn’t the only non-winged turned winged pokemon…

Before he could say another word over his initial reaction, I bounded off again with Raftina behind my trail as we headed towards the flowing lava. I looked at the crevice that was quickly being dug in Seratine itself and gestured for them to move away. They did so, and I prepared to stop the flowing river of destruction. Summoning the power of the Winter Stone, I made water seep away from the earth and slowly, it pooled the huge crevice. The lava flowed into there and cooled instantly. With the other water pokemon help, the lava was soon thwarted. I heaved a sigh of relief, knowing that the danger was over. But just then…

“Hello, Stone Holder... I am your executioner!"

I whipped my head to see a Kabutops with the shell of the brightest red advancing menacingly towards Chief, with what I swaer was poision dripping down his vicious scythes. With a curse under my breath, I used my power and sent a pillar of ice crashing upon him. I quickly bounded towards the Kabutops as he got up.

“And hello there, Monsieur,” I started, “I am your… well, whatever will be fine, but lay a hand on Chief and I’ll be sure to rip your head out.”

Knightblazer

[Neo Emolga]

Seratine, DARK Territory

Earthquakes. I didn’t know what had caused it, but the trench was getting filled with rocks. The lava was spreading thin, and it was seeping into the chasm between the cracks. Some of the water Pokémon were hurt in the attack, but the rest were spraying the incoming lava as much as they could. Those that had been injured were quickly given Oran Berries to recover their strength, and soon enough they were able to get back in there. The Stonewall had taken some damage, so in response, I focused my power into a strong gust of wind, blowing the incoming lava with a furious gale. A large portion of it was sent right back to where it came from, and was even further thinned out. It was making it much easier to cool it down.

I didn’t know what happened with Mt Blaze to cause this much lava to come spilling out, but I imagined the whole thing must have toppled over. Still though, the wind pushed a lot of the lava back, and in some cases, dried it out enough to solidify it. I had seen that a small amount of lava had entered the city, but not enough to damage anything. I quickly sighed in relief.

And then, out of the mess of flowing magma, I had seen… the most hideous Kabutops I had ever seen. Somehow… I felt he was like me… holding one of the stones. Whoever this was… managed to get the Stone of Autumn, I could sense it.

The creature launched a Rock Tomb attack at me, but with some focus, I responded by launching an Air Cutter attack at it, slicing the rock into pebbles before it managed to reach me. I flew over to fight him, and then he swiped at me with one of his poison smothered scythes. Quickly, I had focused my Agility and flew out of the way, just barely dodging the attack.

"Hello Stoneholder... I am your executioner!" He shouted at me.

I flew high enough for him not to be able to reach me. Meanwhile, Seratine was trying to patch up the Stonewall, and several Rhydon were using a Fissure attack to reopen the chasm and send the flowing magma back down into the ground.

And then… thankfully Lucied had arrived just in time. He used the power of the Winter Stone to summon water to seep into the lava to cool it down. The other water Pokémon had quickly joined in, and finished off the rest of the job. Thankfully… Seratine was safe now…

“And hello there, Monsieur,” Lucied told the Kabutops, “I am your… well, whatever will be fine, but lay a hand on Chief and I’ll be sure to rip your head out.”

“Let’s take him out...” I told him with a smile, “And make sure there’s nothing left to remember him by.”

I focused on the heavens above, and then a massive thunderstorm had begun erupting. Only then, moments later, a blazing blot of vicious thunder came striking down from above, heading right toward the Kabutops.

Nothing like some thunderous justice…

[Lord Celebi]

Seratine

The Pikachu with wings used Air Cutter on my Rock Tomb, completely stoping my attack. He flew up in the air to dodge my swipe, as I was attacked by a blue Mighteyna. Heh. Another stoneholder. Wait... this wasn't a stoneholder... Not an ordinary one at least.

He launched an ice attack at me, but I melted it with a Flamethrower. He was something more... I'd have to kill him before he could use this kidn of power on me, “And hello there, Monsieur,” he said, “I am your… well, whatever will be fine, but lay a hand on Chief and I’ll be sure to rip your head out.”

"Good thing I don't have hands," I said, swiping at the Mighteyna. Immediately, clouds began to roll in. S#it!, I thought, Thunder! I quickly focused and created a large spire of earth. The Thunder attack struck the highest thing within the area, the spire, and it was neutralized. Damn, that was close. I created several more spire lightning rods to ensure that wouldn't happen again.

"Now, where were we," I said, raising a poison covered scythe. Immediately, I heard a voice in my head. <Don't do it!>

<Who the hell are you?> I asked, raising my scythe up further.

<Justine... The Guardian of the Twilight Wolf... What you're about to kill.>

<Oh, so he has friends... Wait your turn,> I said, continuing to prepare to strike.

<NO! I am inanimate right now. I need to be awakened by him first, then you can use your stone as a key to unlock my cage. In return, I will be eternally in your debt... And serve you.>

I lowered my scythe, <All you need to do is trick him into awakening me, and I will give you directions to the island I am on.>

I barrell rolled and used A Hyper Beam at the Flying Pikachu... If I can't attack the wolf, at least I can kill the Pikachu...

[Shen]

OOC: Well, rust, isn't it possible that he had a Gengar take his place while he was talking to you?! Meh, I'm just irritable, but not because of what you did...it has nothing to do with this site, really...anyway, I must catch up now!

IC:
Tunnels under Mt. Blaze
Coliseum

"This Kabutops is beyond any you will experience, for you see, I have given him the power of the Stone of Autumn!" The human laughed insanely.

"No...no please!" I collapsed to the ground. "Not that Aqua fiend! DAMNIT!" I slammed a fist into the ground. "Cameron's death was for nought...he died in vain." Tears flowed from my eye down my face. Then, a hidden resolve coming alive within me, I glared at the Pyro Dragon. "You will die for what you have done to us all!" I came up swiftly, unsheathing my sword in the process and slicing the damn "lizard" in half.

The human's face was one of pain, but it faded as darkness wrapped around him. When it faded, it was that of a Gengar.

"WHAT?!" I roared.

"It was a trap!" Yanira yelled.

Suddenly, the ground beneath our feet began to quake intensly. Heat poured forth from the cracks that appeared. Looking down one of them, I saw lava rising rapidly. The Coliseum was becoming an unbearable oven!

"Quickly, grab my arm!" The others took hold of my outstretched arm as I activated the Escape Orb we were wise to bring with us. As we were transported, I whispered an apology to Cameron's spirit.

We landed on hard ground, more heat around us. I looked around to take a stock of my surroundings. I gasped.

The landscape had been completely burned down. It appears that Mt. Blaze had erupted and sent a river of molten lava down in...whatever direction we were from the volcano. I hadn't thought about a suitable location for the Orb to take us, due to the short amount of time we had. Then, I spotted a fiery mountain to the north of us, spewing its blazing contents upon the world.

"Where did we-" I began, but I recognized where we were suddenly, and looked to the south. I couldn't believe what I saw.

The lava flow had ended at Seratine, destroying what was within. Yanira said an oath, but I couldn't hear her. All that was on my mind was that my home for the month before I came to Lesalas was at last destroyed...the great protector of the DARK border had fallen.

We ran as fast as we could, trying to find survivors, but we never met any as we entered the city on the cooled lava. Then, I saw it.

A Kabutops, bathed in fire, was fighting the Mightyena with the Stone of Winter and Neo. Many spires had risen up around the Mightyena and the Kabutops, I assumed to stop neo's Thunder attacks.

The Kabutops raised one of his scythes, which were black and dripping with a sinister substance, to strike the Mightyena, but stopped for a second. I used this time to gain some ground on the bastard.

"Landon, stop!" Zhunjai yelled, but I ignored her. The Kabutops will pay for the destruction he's caused.

The Kabutops barrel-rolled suddenly and shot a Hyper Beam into the sky at Neo. I didn't bother to look if it connected, but continued my charge. I dodged around the spires quickly, using the closest one to rocket myself at him.

This would be a duel to the death. I unsheathed the shirasaya I still wielded and struck.

[Neo Emolga]

Seratine, DARK Territory

While we had stopped the flowing lava completely before it had overtaken, this creature needed to be destroyed. Like Xatu had told us… if we killed him, we would then have the Stone of Autumn in our hands. However, I knew this Kabutops wasn’t going to just curl up and die so we could do that…

He had created a large, stone spire to take in the thunder from above, and once my attack was neutralized, he created more of them. I definitely knew he had the stone in him then, no creature would have ever been able to do that without it. It was clear what we were going to have to do…

For now, raining thunder from the skies above wasn’t an option, but I still had my own innate powers to take him down. For a moment, he seemed to go after Lucied, but then something stopped him. I didn’t understand what happened, but shortly after, he had turned to me, and then attacked with a massive Hyper Beam.

I was caught off guard for a moment. I quickly surged upward to dodge the giant torrent of blazing yellow and white energy. Meanwhile, I had just barely managed to do it, feeling the heat of the giant blast only a few feet below me.

After that, I prepared several vicious whirlwinds around him. Shortly after, several sharp, concentrated blades of Razor Wind would strike him from all directions, enough power to slice anything in half. And the best part was…

…he would never be able to see it… until it was too late…

[TVTMaster]

OOC: Dang, I just got MD Red (Cubone ftw), so I haven't been on, and this is really coming to a climax. Time to get out of the cave with the Swarm Dragon in pursuit and the Stone in hand.

Waterfall Chasm, Seratine

Falling... Eretan tumbled through the air for what seemed days. Streams of water hit, but it only speeded the inevitable awakning of Arran. And he sruck the ground. His shell felt like shattering, but instantly it healed. Bone broke, but was restored. What is this? I feel... alive... more alive... He lay at the bottom of the chasm. A ten-foot diameter stone in the shape of a four-petaled flower was slowly shrinking. Is this... the Stone's power? This means... Delta Green and DARK are in alliance now. And I now have the power to help... He glowed a faint pink and green, growing to the size of a normal Dotaitos. His tree blossomed, flower sending an aroma which calmed him. It was bliss.

"ERETAN! Help! This thing is-- AH!" Pin'orcen's stream of bubbles was cut short as Arran grabbed him with a new, powerful arm of sludge beings. The signal was cut short. Eretan was alone. "Pin'orcen!" Eretan prepared to release a Leaf Storm. He did. The Leaf Storm blew a gaping hole in Arran's chest, and in the wall behind. Eretan heard the cries of the individual creatures as they seperated. Grolymer, the sludge beings, reached out for Rowan. "You big meanie!" Eretan roared, and sent up a tree so large it intercepted the attack. "You. You have the Grand Relic. The stone is ours. Give it back." The voice came not from the mouth of Lyelan, but from the two orbs, speaking in sync.

"Eretan! Get me down!" Cub was hanging from a ledge. "Cub... um... here!" He sent up another tree, as Cub fell onto a limb. "Whoa... do it again!" "Alright. I need to get out, too." Eretan focused. He heard the names of the creatures, Phuzz for the green things, Slatelet for the stone creatures all names swirling in his head. "No!" He shook off the effect of the stone, and sent up a tree. It erupted from the ground, sending jutting branches up through the cave. It broke the seal. The waterfall came down. It sloshed down the bark of the tree, soaking Arran and Eretan's party. "The falls sustain me! You will die!" It flew in a rage at eretan, who created a wall of wood. Obviously being part ground with this had advantages.

Eretan ran up an ivy deck, which formed as he ran. The water was pushing down on the branches, shaping them. Eretan ran, rising on trees. Pin''orcen yelled. "You idiot! Save me! I'm the leader of this operat-- mph!" Silenced by a gag of flowers, he was carried up by a tree. "Hop on. We're out of here. He shaped the tree, redirecting the water away from them. The tree continued to grow, filling the cave. Eretan tired. Arran swooped. "DIE!" Arran was split in two by the tree. It began to split again. pieces of it fell... and reformed into many more. Eretan reached the initial ledge, as tiny Swarm Dragons attacked with miniature versions of their Grolymer arms. "Stop it!" Eretan released a lavender flow of steam, which shriveled two of the minis. Poison. From the deck he saw the dragon form into two bodies, with an "eye" each. They hovered on either side of the tree, blocking attempt to head up to the surface.

"You will die here, thief."

[Knightblazer]

OOC: I would have been angry at you rust.... but then desperate times call for desperate measures...

::[Seratine City]::[DARK Territory]
Hour Of Latias – Duel Amongst Wielders

The Kabutops quickly retaliated, sending several spires made of earth bursting into the sky to counter the Chief’s electric attacks. I cursed under my breath upon realizing that I had landed myself into a dangerous position. I looked at the cherry red Kabutops as he raised a scythe dripped with venomous toxic. “Now, where were we?” he asked with a grin as he readied his vicious weapon. But all of a sudden, he seemed to freeze, as if he was somewhere distant…

Milord! Came the voice of Raftina once more. I whipped my head about. Where are you? I asked mentally, hoping she could pick it up…

Yes, I can hear you like that, confirmed the Guardian, [B]but Justine has contacted that Kabutops you now face.

What?!

We never would have allowed others like that Kabutops to obtain the stone… but five centuries can make a difference.

“Agreed…” I muttered as the Kabutops, who now I realized was the holder of the Autumn Stone, snapped out from his trance and made a barrel roll to the right before releasing a Hyper Beam attack towards Chief. I gritted my teeth together in frustration. Raftina! I called, now quite used to the telepathy, protect the Chief!

As you wish, the winged Espeon replied in my mind as she swiftly flew towards the Chief, who managed to take things into his hands quite well. He made a sharp turn upwards and evaded the glaring pillar of ivory energy. Following that, he released a torrent of Razor Wind towards the unsuspecting Kabutops, the power of the gales even startling the Espeon who was now floating behind him.

What power…! Started Raftina, now at a loss. Even we cannot utilize the stones to this levels so quickly… is there something that we cannot do…? I was about to respond, when I spotted something out of the corner of my eye. It was the same Pikachu I met last night, a deadly dagger like weapon in hand as he darted through the spires and charged recklessly towards the Kabutops.

“GET BACK!” I roared, using the power of the Winter Stone to create a wall of ice to stop him. I quickly bounded to his side when he did, and almost exploded in fury as the Razor Winds came. “Do you know what you just did? You could have been killed!” I half-snapped at him, clearly angered by his sudden recklessness…

Knightblazer

[Shen]

Seratine
Remains of the Town Square

My sword sliced a gash in a sudden wall of ice that blocked my path. Cursing loudly, I quickly shifted my body so I could stop my flight with my feet, pushing off and landing deftly. I looked around, searching for the power that dared stop my attack. I saw a Mightyena bound next to me. I recognized him as the reciever of the powers of the Stone of Winter.

“Do you know what you just did?" He snapped. "You could have been killed!”

"Why did you stop me?!" I snapped back. I didn't even flinch as the ice wall behind me was shattered by a sudden Razor Wind that had enveloped the spot where the Kabutops was. "He must be stopped. He has killed many, as you can clearly see! He has caused me grief equal to that when I lost my parents!" I looked down, tears pouring from my one good eye. My body convulsed with silent sobs. "He cost me my dear friend Cameron..."

I looked back up at him, angry at him even though he'd probably saved my life. "Death is nothing compared to what I've felt in the past couple of days! I must stop him at all costs!"

I awaited his answer as my friends ran up behind him, stopping when they saw him.

OOC: BTW Knightblazer, a shirasaya is a sword in length equal to a Katana (which, I admit, might look kind of like a dagger if it was proportioned to a Pikachu...). It just lacks the tsuba (guard), and nearly blends with the sheath when put away.

[Lord Celebi]

Seratine City

Screw this... Too many people are attacking me. I had been attacked by swords, Razor Wind, Ice... It was just becoming too much. I had to retreat, and quickly. I summoned a large geyser of lava under my feet. Immediately, It engulfed me.

"See you later..." I said, as the lava continued to encase me. I felt a rush of power again, as the lava went underground, taking me to an underground canal of lava. This canal linked to Mt. Blaze, and then from there, I could go through the Frosty Forest into Team Aqua Territory.

The Pikachu Stoneholder... The Twilight Wolf... The other Pikachu... The flying Espeon... They are all going to pay. I just need to find this 'Justine' fellow and set him free.

<You can find me on Remains Island> He said to me.

I came out of Mt. Blaze... Too Remains Island...

OOC: Ack, short post...

[Knightblazer]

::[Seratine City]::[DARK Territory]
Hour Of Groudon – Breakable Ties

“Why did you stop me?!" the Pikachu snapped back. I looked at his strong eyes, a cross-shaped scar cutting on his left one, but still I could feel his hatred burning into me. It felt so strong that it was almost so real, so… tangible. The ice wall behind us then shattered as the Razor Wind hit the Kabutops, who managed to escape in the nick of time by engulfing himself with lava and slinked down into a lava channel. I cursed under my breath and was about to contact Raftina once more when the Pikachu spoke again.

"He must be stopped. He has killed many, as you can clearly see! He has caused me grief equal to that when I lost my parents!" He shouted, almost screamed at me in rage as he looked down, tears pouring out from his one good eye as his body convulsed with silent sobs. "He cost me my dear friend Cameron..." Trailing off, he raised his head again and looked at me with those strong eyes, that unbreakable spirit… it reminded me so much of Ifrit myself…

"Death is nothing compared to what I've felt in the past couple of days! I must stop him at all costs!" he exclaimed at me, anger and the promise of revenge clearly heard in that voice. His friends then managed to catch up with him, and stopped when they saw me. I looked solemnly at the cross-scared Pikachu. He reminded me… of Ifrit and myself. The unbreakable will and spirit… plus the grief and sorrow of his past… he was almost like… and mixture of the Houndoom and I…

I closed my eyes for a moment, thinking for a while. I could feel hot tears stinging my eyes, but I shook them off and looked at the Pikachu again before opening my mouth to speak in the most solemn tone I could muster. “Look, my friend…” I started, “I… suffered the same fate as you did. Before I joined DARK, I was a traveler… an explorer with simple dreams. I had my one and only friend, Ifrit. He was so like you… with a strong will and an indomitable spirit. He had a high sense of morality, and always puts friendship above everything. But then an earthquake his us years ago, and I found myself alone when I woke up. I believed Ifrit… to be dead.”

I paused then, composing myself for a moment before continuing. I saw Raftina approaching me from the corner of my eyes as I spoke. “Then when I was in the Winter Maze by accident, and stumbled upon the stone… I took the stone and its powers… and defeated the Mist Dragon… but then I found Ifrit there, held in stasis. I released him, but… I couldn’t save him. I had to leave him there, dying as he became buried under the caving maze. I freed him…only to leave him dying.”

I looked at him straight at the eye then. Did he realize now that things could not be changed…? “Revenge will get you nowhere, only despair and loneliness. What will you accomplish after your revenge? Tell me! Will killing that Kabutops make your friend alive again?” I demanded at him, anger now rising. I just couldn’t… couldn’t see anyone else take down the same path as I…

Just then, Raftina decided it was best to stop this conversation. [B]Milord, the winged Espeon started, we must hurry to Remains Island. Justine is sealed there, and we must stop the Kabutops from freeing him.

“But doesn’t it require the stone holder to open the doors to the chamber first?” I questioned, looking sharply at her. Raftina shook her head in response. No… the Autumn Stone has been corrupted since eons ago by the greed of the Pyro Dragon, and now it no longer exists in purity. Anyone can open the doors now… but you still need to revive Justine and if necessary, destroy him if he truly desires to team up with that Kabutops.

“If the Autumn Stone is corrupt… than what does that make the stone now?”

We call it the Hellfire Stone now.

I nodded, and then turned towards the Pikachu once again. “I suggest you think over my words, and decide for yourself what you really wanna do. This is your life, your choice… do not waste it on trivial matters like revenge. That is all I can tell you.” Saying that, I sped off, with Raftina opening a portal towards Remains Island. I leaped into the swirling portal, which closed behind me as Raftina and I were swiftly brought to the forgotten lands of Remains Island…

Knightblazer

[Neo Emolga]

Seratine, DARK Territory

We had entrapped the Kabutops, and he was running out of options. Suddenly, a large geyser of lava erupted from below him, and then he turned toward us.

“See you later…” He spoke before enveloping himself with the lava.

After that, he was just… gone. I would have liked to defeat him, but that would have to wait for another day. But in the meantime, Seratine was saved, with only minimal damage done to the Stonewall. Still, I didn’t understand why he would try to kill innocent Pokémon…

…unless of course… he was from Team Aqua…

And then… there was Landon. He had the courage to fight, but he was a little too reckless. Regardless, I couldn’t help but agree with what Lucied had told him…

“Milord,” the winged Espeon Raftina had told Lucied, “we must hurry to Remains Island. Justine is sealed there, and we must stop the Kabutops from freeing him.”

“He’s thinking of doing what!?” I exclaimed at Raftina, “He’s an insane fool!”

Still though, that wasn’t going to change anything. He was after one of the guardians, trying to get some kind of massive power on his side.

“But doesn’t it require the stone holder to open the doors to the chamber first?” Lucied asked, turning to Raftina.

“No… the Autumn Stone has been corrupted since eons ago by the greed of the Pyro Dragon, and now it no longer exists in purity.” She replied, “Anyone can open the doors now… but you still need to revive Justine and if necessary, destroy him if he truly desires to team up with that Kabutops.”

“If the Autumn Stone is corrupt… than what does that make the stone now?” Lucied asked her.

“We call it the Hellfire Stone now.” She muttered.

After that, Lucied turned toward Landon. He was going to make his point clear…

“I suggest you think over my words, and decide for yourself what you really wanna do.” Lucied told him, “This is your life, your choice… do not waste it on trivial matters like revenge. That is all I can tell you.”

After that, a portal was created, and both Lucied and Raftina leapt through it, and were gone from sight. All I could do now was just think. I could only hope that the two of them would get there before that hideous Kabutops arrived. I still didn’t know what kind of power these guardians were capable of, and honestly, I didn’t want to find out when it was far too late to do anything about it…

“What are you going to do now, Chief?” Leon asked me, “And who was that winged Espeon?”

“It’s a long story, but she’s Lucied’s ally.” I told him, knowing that if we didn’t stop Justine before that Kabutops arrived, he would have his own ally that would assist him in destruction.”

I then remembered the moment he decided to attack me instead of Lucied. Someone must have spoken to that Kabutops… and that someone must have been Justine. He knew… he was going to need Lucied before anything more could happen.

So, already Lucied and the Kabutops had made contact with their guardians. However, I hadn’t heard anything from Zephyr, the guardian that was supposed to be associated with the Stone of Summer. Problem was, I had no idea where to even search. It could easily be that he really didn’t want to be reawakened, which was still possible…

Regardless, waiting for a response was futile. Still, I didn’t know whether to follow Lucied, or stay here. I didn’t even know where this… Remains Island was, and by the time I started… Lucied would already beat me to the punch…

Instead, I turned to Landon. He seemed a little downcast from the fighting, but I knew he only meant his best…

“Look, don’t be too hard on it, Landon.” I told him, giving him my assurance, “You’ve got a lot of guts and courage, and I think that’s gotta count for something. You’ve got to be careful though, this Kabutops is really strong, much tougher than anything I’ve fought before. Still though, you will be a great warrior someday. I can see one of my best Windblazers in your eyes…”

And then, Narsaka had approached me. It seemed… he had a proposition…

“Let me go with Landon, Neo.” Narsaka told me, “He doesn’t have a mount yet and… you already do have your own pair of wings.”

“Narsaka, don’t act like I’m abandoning you because of that.” I told him, knowing we were still very close, “You’re one of my closest and irreplaceable companions.”

“This is my decision.” He told me, looking at me in the eyes, “You said yourself that Landon would be very capable. “Besides, your powers are too great. Keep in mind your best thunder attacks can’t be used while riding on my back…”

He did have a point there. Plus, Narsaka was incredibly knowledgeable, and he would definitely show Landon how to become an outstanding Windblazer in record time. I looked down for a moment, and then looked back up to him.

“Okay.” I replied, “But you both need to take good care of each other. I’m not going to lose you either, Narsaka. You mean a lot to me.”

“Definitely.” He replied with a smile, “As for you, Chief, I don’t think it will be long before Zephyr decides to speak with you. You’re just as important to him as Lucied is to Raftina. He needs you to be reawakened…”

He was right about that, but still, until I knew when and where that was, I was on my own…

[Knightblazer]

OOC: Chief, you should really get to updating those Cliff Notes... ><;

[Arrival]::[Remains Island]::
Hour Of Rayquanza – Search of Justine

We arrived upon the island, among the growth of shrubs and berry bushes. Immediately after arrival, both of us started on our search of Justine’s chambers. As we walked through the place, I asked Raftina a question which had been in my mind all this time. “Why did Justine contact that Kabutops, Raftina? It hardly makes sense…”

The winged Espeon closed her sapphire eyes for a moment before opening them as she answered my inquiry. [B]We, the Four Guardians… we were chosen by the Dragon Pokemon to look over the stones. Each of us chosen because we displayed our qualities greatly; Justine for Courage, Zephyr for Hope, Olivia for Charity and Kindness, and finally I for Love. Together, we, the Guardians of Season, represented the power that made the heart stay strong and overcome all difficulties hurled in our way.

“Wow… that seems to be one big task…” I muttered, clearly amazed by her true responsibilities.

Each of us looked over our chosen stones for millennia, and when danger was at hand, choosing an adequate hero of that time if necessary. We are tied to our Season Stone, for if it is destroyed, so are we. And upon absorption of the Season Stone, we are tied to its Holder. We are affected by how our holders are. Now that the vile Kabutops had gotten hold of the Hellfire Stone… I dare not think what would happen to Justine.

“That’s why we’re here! To find him, yes?” I asked with a grin. Raftina turned and with a nod, smiled at me as well. Yes, we are. I suppose you must remember where Justine’s lair is, yes?

I paused then, at a loss of what to say. Did she still think I was truly the Twilight Wolf Xatu mentioned. “Look, Raftina,” I started, “about that ‘Twilight Guardian’ thing… I have no clue. All I know is that I have the same name as him, and that’s it. Why would I be this… ultimate guardian?”

Lucied is the Twilight Guardian, the beholder of Desire and Passion. He dies not, and lives not. His spirit chooses a container to his soul once every thirteen years, the one most suitable for him… he must have chosen you, though you do not know.

Once again, I was stunned. Thirteen years? I’m exactly at the same age… was it truly real… or just a mere coincidence…? I recalled the point where I had freed Raftina. Xatu had said only I could do it… and it was true. But yet, I felt there was something more… something which I had either overlooked or was forgotten… “Raftina, what do the Guardians look like?”

We have no true form, she replied, we assume a shape that you all would easily discern and make out. I took this form, one of a winged Espeon. Zephyr takes on the look of a black and red Flygon with yellow eyes, and Olivia in the shape of a Ninetails with emerald eyes and striking green tipped tails. Justine, the last I saw, chose the form of a… Sneasel with startling garnet eyes and... black wings…

“A Sneasel with black wings…? That’s… a strange choice…”

Indeed it is. But we must cut short our discussion for now; Justine’s chamber looms ahead.

I looked up and gasped when I saw the chamber. Hidden by the many trees and flora, the Courage Guardian’s chamber was surrounded by a moat. It was styled like a stronghold, with vines creeping along the stonewalls and ancient looking statues standing, hardly worn down by the ravages of time. Raftina helped me in crossing the moat, which I found to be filled with venomous toxics. Imagine if I had fallen into there…

Entering the huge castle like structure, I gulped when the lights suddenly opened, glaring at me as Justine’s voice boomed across the area. You are not who I am expecting, Great One.

Justine! Shouted the Espeon, let us into your chambers! You cannot go with that vile monster who holds the Hellfire stone! It will only destroy you!

I care not, Raftina, replied the Courage Guardian, all I want is to be released from this prison!

Then Lucied shall do that! Why do you insist on joining that Kabutops?

I shall make use of him for my revenge… upon the Pokemon who helped the humans seal me!

That is blasphemy! Cried Raftina, you know they had to seal us for the greater good! To defeat Him and keep Him sealed in the Shadow Realm!

“Who are you talking-” I stared, but was cut off when Justine roared at us, his anger clearly heard now.

Enough! Today I shall rid you two from your pitiful existence! Saying that, an entire group of Pokemon head towards us, soulless eyes looking. I realized them as the Ghouls from the Winter Maze. I gulped as Raftina and I backed against each other as the undead advanced.

This was definitely not a good day…

Knightblazer

[Neo Emolga]

OOC: Yeah, I know. I don’t usually update them the moment people start posting more details, but I will get to it in time.

Seratine, DARK Territory
Hour of Rayquaza

I had stayed in Seratine, just to make sure things were safe. We had a situation on our hands, and I didn’t like it. This had to be Team Aqua’s doing, no one else had such a hunger for destruction…

Quite a bit of damage had been done, and we had taken seven casualties in total. However, plenty of others were wounded. I was glad Oran Berries were in abundance, otherwise I would imagine disasters like these would be far more dire. Still though, Oran Berries couldn’t heal the most critical of wounds…

I knew Narsaka would be safe with Landon. I knew he didn’t have the full experience of being a Windblazer yet, but I was confident he would be able to get there soon, and Narsaka would show him the way.

I headed inside the town hall, and searched for the map. I didn’t know where Remains Island was, but the thought of Lucied and Raftina going up against the Kabutops and possibly Justine as well didn’t sound good at all.

“N-Neo!” The Slowking behind the desk exclaimed, “My, I had gotten word of you getting the Summer Stone and the news about your wings, but I never imagined they would be anything like this!”

“Look, I need a map.” I told him, getting straight to the point, “Lucied and that hideous Kabutops spoke of heading to a place called Remains Island. I don’t even know where it is, but I’m concerned. That thing is dangerous and they could be getting themselves into even more trouble.”

He didn’t waste too much time, and he quickly searched around for his Atlas. Once he found it, he searched around while I watched. The longer it took and the more he kept flipping through the pages and pages of maps, the more anxious I got. Lucied was out there and I had no idea what he was about to deal with…

“I think I found it.” He replied, looking at one particular map.

He pointed to a very small island just south of the Unown Relic, one that I had never even looked into before. I could admit, its location was not very admiring, had no strategic value. Still though, I quickly took the map, and I looked to over. I knew how to get there now, but time was against me.

“Thank you, I owe you one.” I told him, rushing out the door.

“Anything for the Chief is what I would say.” He replied.

I headed outside and didn’t waste another second. I quickly spread my wings, leapt into the air and flew southwest toward the Remains Island. I needed to make sure Lucied was safe…

[Lord Celebi]

OOC: If you can teleport to Remains Island, so can I :P
IC:
Remains Island

I arrived on the island, and immediately sensed the presence of another Stoneholder. F*ck! I won't be able to free Justine if he gets there first. I thought. I looked up to see one large tower on Remains Island. Mewtwo looked down at me, "So. You're the one the Pyro Dragon has chosen. How pitiful." He launched a Shadow Ball at me. I jumped out of the way, only to be kicked midair by Deoxys Speed Form.

"$#1T!" I cried in pain. I have tow to deal with... But I have my stone to use against them. I summoned a large amount of lava, and turned it into a ball, launching it at Mewtwo. He jumped out of the way, and the ball followed him. He continued to jump from floor to floor until he was on the ground. He looked behind him and didn't see the ball.

"Big mistake!" I said, dropping the ball from 100 feet over his head. Mewtwo looked confused momentarily, until the ball of lava hit him. Lava smeared all over the island. That'll only hold him for a short period of time. I created a stone spire to spike Deoxys with. He dodged. I continued to create large stone spires on the island, and he still dodged.

Deoxys launched a Shadow Ball at me. It hit right in my stomach. I cursed once again and charged and Deoxys, slicing its head off with my poison scythes. The head only reformed on his body, as the flying head became a new Deoxys.

My problems have worsened...

[Neo Emolga]

En Route to Remains Island
Hour of Moltres, Contact Point

Even the wind wasn’t enough to carry me as fast as I would have liked to. I had no idea what I was about to face, but still, I needed to have the confidence if I was going to have any hope of helping Lucied take down Justine. This was our moment to stop an already bad situation from getting worse. I didn’t want to have to fight it when it was already too late, and hundreds were dead because of it.

Below me was water. It was quite a flight to get all the way down there, but the sight of seeing land again and passing over Murky Cave was relieving. I didn’t know how much more flying it was going to take, but this was quite a distance. Still though, I left a gale of wind carry me along, which amplified my flying speed to the extreme.

Before long, I had seen the Unown Relic, and I knew I was getting there. Still though, it was taking too long and I was concerned about Lucied. However, if me being there would help him reach Justine before that Kabutops, then it was totally worth it. Besides, Lucied was my friend, and if I had lost him down there, I would have never forgiven myself. Not to mention, there was the thought of Lucied being the Twilight Guardian. If this was all true… he was even more important to DARK than I was…

Shortly after, I had arrived. Now… I needed to find Lucied…

[Knightblazer]

[Entrance Of Courage Sanctum]::[Remains Island]::
Hour Of Moltres – Battle of Prowess

I swore under my breath as I dodged an Ice Beam from one of the undead Walrein, only to quickly leap into the air to evade an Earthquake from the gang of Makuhita. However, a Skarmory behind got me with a powerful Steel Wing attack, causing me to slam hard against the stone floor. I coughed out a mouthful of blood. This was reminding me too much of the Mist Dragon…

…and Ifrit…

[B]What’s wrong,’ Great One’? mocked Justine, Not as powerful as you used to be now?

You know he’s not truly complete! Shouted back Raftina.

That’s why I’ll finish him off now! Crowed the now corrupted Courage Guardian as the undead Pokemon advanced. I gulped, holding my breath. The distinct sound of clanking metal came to my ears from the wild Pokemon as they waved several metallic items at me.

Metallic… Number 66…

I was struck with a sudden idea of inspiration. But could I pull if off now? Perhaps with the power of the Winter Stone? Nevertheless, I had to try. I leaped, and spun until only a gray blur was left of me in the air. I charged towards the end of the corridor, wobbling every time blood and meat slapped onto me as they exploded by the attack I used. Finally I stopped and landed skidding to a halt and gasped at the sight before me. Blood was all over where ever I looked. Severed head and limbs littered across the bare floors and crimson shining against the pale walls of the area. Raftina grimaced as she landed besides me once again. Looks like you’ve even begun using the Twilight Power without realizing it…

“Just what attack is that?” I questioned her, hoping all my answers would perhaps be answered…

That is a move often used by the first Lucied of Twilight. The Kiba, it is simply called – or ‘Fang’ as you call it. The attack shears all in its path and is virtually unstoapable.

“The Lucied no Kiba…?”

That is correct.

Nonsense! roared the now enraged voice of Justine, how can he adept to the Twilight Power of quickly?! He’s barely even started with the Winter Stone!

Perhaps…this one has more potential that you may think, Justine, started the Espeon in her usual calm demeanor. Please, my friend, my fellow Guardian… let go of the corruption controlling you and let us in!

Silence hung in the air as Justine paused for a moment before answering. …very well. But I have a condition.

Name it, spoke Raftina. I watched as a door in front of us swung open to reveal a portal.

First, I want the Mightyena to attempt the Seven Cloisters of Courage. If he is truly the Twilight one, he will be able to finish it and reach my chamber. I will allow you to bring whoever you wish, and perhaps another one besides Raftina. Do you accept?

“Well, I agree, but I only have Raftina…” I trailed off as I heard footsteps approaching into the room. I looked as the familiar figure approached me, and prepared myself in case it was that Kabutops…

Better to be safe than sorry…



OOC: Chief, its your call...

Knightblazer

[Neo Emolga]

Entrance of Courage Sanctum, Remains Island
Hour of Moltres – Unity

I had found Lucied and Raftina near the chamber, which was surrounded with rich vegetation. Around the building was a moat filled with just about every vile poison imaginable. Meanwhile, I had seen that there had been a vicious battle just before I had gotten here, and the entire area was a bloodbath. I had neared Lucied quietly, still unaware of what had just happened…

First, I want the Mightyena to attempt the Seven Cloisters of Courage. If he is truly the Twilight one, he will be able to finish it and reach my chamber. I will allow you to bring whoever you wish, and perhaps another one besides Raftina. Do you accept?

The Seven Cloisters of Courage. This had to be some kind of test for Lucied that I had overheard. However, if it was possible for me to help him, I wanted to do it. I could stay by his side, just like Raftina.

“Well, I agree, but I only have Raftina…” Lucied spoke to the voice.

But, he then turned around and saw me. He was a little paranoid from his looks, but I could tell. That Kabutops must have been nearby, and I could evidently see he had just fought like hell for his life.

“It’s me, Lucied, relax.” I told him, a little bashful for having sneaked up on him.

I then looked ahead, and noticed a portal. That had to be the way, and I knew that if I could possibly help Lucied with this, then I had to do it.

“We’re in this together, Lucied.” I told him, knowing if he needed my help in there, I was more than ready to offer it. “I’ll fight by your side, as you have fought besides mine. If Raftina and the two of us work together, I know we can reach Justine before that Kabutops. It’s the best chance we have.”

I had no idea what was before us, but I was ready and willing to deal with it.

[Knightblazer]

[Courage Sanctum]::[Remains Island]::
Hour Of Moltres – Bonds Of Friendship

“It’s me, Lucied, relax,” came the voice of the Chief as I turned to look at him. He looked a bit bashful, apparently having sneaked up on me. I gave a sigh. This was Chief after all. Looking ahead, he noticed the portal and somehow understood at once what was going on.

“We’re in this together, Lucied,” he told me, the tone in his voice holding the promise of friendship and trust. “I’ll fight by your side, as you have fought besides mine. If Raftina and the two of us work together, I know we can reach Justine before that Kabutops. It’s the best chance we have.”

I smiled at that. Truly, the Chief was the only person aside from the Wild Geese who had ever stood by me, believed me… and more importantly, accepted my existence in this world. That feeling was just like… I truly had something with this world, with people who cared and cherished me and I did back in return. It was nothing short of being truly wonderful…

Turning back towards the portal, I spoke aloud to Justine. “Will you allow me to bring along the Holder of the Summer Stone, Justine?”

[B]…I do. Now, enter and prove yourselves to me. I shall truly see if you are worthy of my own prowess… and if you are truly my lord as Raftina claims to be.

The three of us walked towards the portal, stopping right before it. I looked at the swirl of countless colors as I turned to look at Raftina and the Chief. “Well, are you ready, you guys?”

I will follow you to anywhere you go, milord, replied the winged Espeon. The Chief gave me his positive response too. And with a playful, out of this place grin, I leaped into the portal alongside my two closest compatriots. The colors swirled, and a light engulfed us before…

“Oaf!” I went as I landed onto the stone floor. The Chief and Raftina followed, landing into the mess of tail and paws on top of me, letting all air escape from my lungs. “Err… guys… mind if yo get off?” They did, and I soon stood up, brushing away dust from my back. After that, I looked around to see ourselves in a simple room, with several pillars and rubble of different sizes.

The first cloister is the one of Moor Gault. Prove your power to him in order to proceed, boomed the Courage Guardian’s voice before a loud shriek pierced the air. Raftina seemed to pale when she heard it. Of all the seven he has, he sends one of the worst out first…

“Just who is this Moor Gault, Raftina?” I asked sharply once again.

Each of us guardians were given each seven other lesser guardians in the formation of the cloisters. In each cloister, one has to prove his or her prowess against a guardian of our choice. Every lesser guardian represented a force on this earth, like water, luck, time and such. Moor Gault… he is the embodiment of fire, the Pidgeot with blazing wings.

“Then this is gonna be a long day…” I muttered as the said Guardian emerged from the shadows. His feathers a deep maroon in color, Moor Gault of Fire gave out a loud screech of challenge as he let lose the fury of Flamethrower, which all three of us dodged quickly. I couldn’t help but give out a deep sigh when I landed.

This was just getting too troublesome…

Knightblazer

[Neo Emolga]

OOC: During these trials, you have full permission to bunny me, Knightblazer. After all, I tagged along, I don’t want to slow you down.

Courage Sanctum, Remains Island
Hour of Moltres – Battle of Moor Gault

Lucied was really pleased to see me here, and I was relieved. I knew we could do this, we just had to believe.

“Will you allow me to bring along the Holder of the Summer Stone, Justine?” Lucied asked.

I do. Now, enter and prove yourselves to me. I shall truly see if you are worthy of my own prowess… and if you are truly my lord as Raftina claims to be.

Even though I was surprised at the amount of power and influence Lucied had been presented before him, I was wiling to accept it. He was my friend, my ally, my comrade in arms, and nothing would ever change that.

The portal was before us, and the three of us walked in. I shut my eyes and knew to be brave. Not even the icy touch of death could provoke me now…

“Well, are you ready, you guys?” Lucied asked Raftina and I.

“We can do this, Lucied, I know we can.” I told him, opening my eyes again with a smile.

I will follow you to anywhere you go, milord Raftina responded to him.

After that, the three of us leapt into the portal, totally without fear. The light shone brightly in my face, and then the next moment, I found myself falling…

“Oaf!” Lucied cried out, just before Raftina and I couldn’t help but land on top of his back, “Err… guys… mind if you get off?”

I quickly hopped off and landed on the stone floor. I felt a little embarrassed, but that was okay…

“Sorry about that Lucied,” I told him with an embarrassed smile, “But thanks for breaking my fall.”

After that, I looked ahead to see the room that we had fallen into. Seven pillars, and piles of rubble scattered about. I didn’t know what this was supposed to be… until I heard Justine’s voice again…

The first cloister is the one of Moor Gault. Prove your power to him in order to proceed

Moor Gault? Man, what a name. I looked to Raftina, who looked paler than a rookie Windblazer after seven straight hours of training.

Of all the seven he has, he sends one of the worst out first… Raftina spoke with a mutter.

“Just who is this Moor Gault, Raftina?” Lucied asked her, wondering what this first challenge was going to be like…

Each of us guardians were given each seven other lesser guardians in the formation of the cloisters. In each cloister, one has to prove his or her prowess against a guardian of our choice. Every lesser guardian represented a force on this earth, like water, luck, time and such. Moor Gault… he is the embodiment of fire, the Pidgeot with blazing wings.

Oh boy, I couldn’t wait to fight this thing…

“Then this is gonna be a long day…” Lucied moaned, just before the Moor Gault appeared.

I got a good look at him, and this was definitely no birdbrain pushover. His maroon colored feathers were unlike anything I’ve ever seen, and his shriek was hideously loud. After that, he unleashed a massive, blazing hot Flamethrower attack right at the three of us. Lucied and Raftina quickly leapt out of the way, while I spread my wings quickly and leapt into the air.

It was at that moment that I had wished I had gotten in more practice at flying, but what I had now was going to have to do. And if I didn’t have enough practice now… these challenges were definitely going to be more than enough to get used to it…

I quickly flew toward Moor Gault, and prepared a flying Volt Tackle, flying right into his abdomen. Immediately, I gave him the full force of the powerful electric attack, and he was thrown backward. However, what I didn’t expect was for him to begin a retaliation on the way down. He flew right back up at me and used a nasty Drill Peck attack, and I felt his sharp beak jab right into my side. I quickly flew back up to get away, and unleashed a Thunderbolt in reprisal, shooting it downward right into him. I was running out of space and the stone ceiling wasn’t too far away. Last thing I wanted to do was left myself get corned with this thing.

The Moor Gault had taken a heavy hitting, but was still enraged enough to fight. Lucied was right…

This was definitely going to be a long day…

[Knightblazer]

OOC: Really? Then prepare to go wild, pal! :biggrin:

[Moor Gault’s Trial]::[Courage Sanctum]::[Remains Island]::
Hour Of Ho Oh – Fight Of The Phoenix

The Chief immediately ducked as the Pidgeot known as Moor Gault charged upwards towards him. The huge bird crashed onto the ceiling, with more pieces of rubble raining down and crashing loudly onto the floor, but strangely the ceiling did not have a hole in it. I looked at it in confusion, and Raftina, who sensed it, answered my unverbalized question. [B]The Sanctum is held up by the powers of the Guardian. It is neigh impossible to fall it, unless the Guardian itself releases the powers holding it or is slain.

“I see,” I replied, nodding and then leapt to the side as the bird let loose a stunning yet deadly display of flames from his Blast Burn attack. Releasing a Shadow Ball in retaliation, the swirling purple ball met its mark upon the Pidgeot’s chest and sent him flying across the room, smashing against the opposite wall. The Chief took the chance and unleashed the raw power of his amplified Thunder attack, shocking the bird well. Moor Gault, however, still seemed undaunted, and released yet another Blast Burn attack. While Raftina and I managed to dodge it, the Chief, still apparently not used to his wings, had his left one scorched. With a small cry of pain, he began to plummet towards the ground.

“Raftina!” I shouted her name, and the winged Espeon immediately responded. She swiftly flew and caught the winged Pikachu on her back and brought him to the side to heal with an Oran Berry. Gritting my teeth in anger, I once again let out a Shadow Ball, but was easily countered with Whirlwind, the gale’s force sending me crashing against one of the pillars. I coughed out blood once again as I fell to the ground. Raftina was immediately by my side.

Milord! Are you alright? she asked. I got up and nodded, although with some difficulty.

“Yes, I’m fine,” I replied. Moor Gault screeched out again as he let loose the full brunt of Razor Wind, the cutting gales heading straight for us, but I blocked them an ice wall. The Chief, who had swiftly recovered with help from Oran Berries, flew towards us two.

“Any bright ideas, Lucied?” he asked.

“Just one,” I said as a reply, and then leapt out from the wall. The Pidgeot noticed me and released another Flamethrower. I made another defense, this time one in the shape of the three of us. The bird continued to direct its attacks towards it while I sneaked behind him from land. Luckily he was dumb… with a shout, I leaped… and landed onto his back. Moor Gault immediately trashed about in an attempt to throw me off, but I had already attached myself with ice to his crown.

“Are you insane?!” demanded the Chief, “you’ll get roasted to a crisp!”

“I have a plan!” I shot back, only to give out a shout of surprise as I was almost flung out by the force of his lashing. Sticking myself hard this time, I focused hard on the power of the Winter Stone inside me, I let loose a Water Pulse and my foe was lost within it. His body glowing an entire blue, the Pidgeot wobbled slightly before falling onto the floor, defeated. I heaved a sigh of relief as I leaped off. Now that was an interesting ride…

“Lucied, you are crazy,” the Chief declared as soon as he caught up to me, “I mean, jockeying that thing? Whoever though of that?”

“Point taken, Chief,” I teased with a mock salute as Moor Gault’s unconscious body vanished and Justine’s voice boomed across the room once more. Excellent! Just what I would expect from the true Keeper of Twilight! Now, please enter to face your next challenge. With that, yet another portal opened, and I looked at the two. They nodded in silent acknowledgement, and we leaped into the portal once more, ready to face anything in our way…

Knightblazer

[Neo Emolga]

OOC: Okay, hope you don’t mind if I don’t rehash everything. That does take quite a while.

Also… mind if I make the next challenge? ;)

If it’s no good, just let me know. I’ll edit it out. :P

Courage Sanctum, Remains Island
Hour of Ho-oh – Ritual of Rautaketju

I was definitely a little shaken from the battle. Best thing I learned was not to get the wings damaged while in flight. It was undoubtedly fatal, that was for sure…

Raftina saved my little life, and Lucied had made the final blow. Moor Gault wasn’t easy, and it took way more electricity than I thought it would. However, if this was really one of Justine’s hardest and strongest guardians, I bet we had a strong chance…

“Lucied, you are crazy.” I told him, seeing that Lucied had finished him off, “I mean, jockeying that thing? Whoever though of that?”

“Point taken, Chief.” Lucied said with a smile as he stood over Moor Gault’s body.

Excellent! Just what I would expect from the true Keeper of Twilight! Now, please enter to face your next challenge.

Man, Justine’s voice could wake the dead. And then I remembered… it kind of did just outside…

Once again, a portal had formed in front of the three of us. Lucied looked toward the two of us, and Raftina and I nodded for the go ahead. It was time. We jumped into the portal, and then I had been enveloped in a bright, white light.

I found myself crashing to the ground, which was of some strange, dark brick. When I looked up, I had seen a large stronghold cathedral before us, only now it stood high as an intimidating monolith against the now cloudy and stormy night sky. Large, beacons of light moving and tracing about on the ground was the only source of light we had, while a distinct howling of pain and cries could be heard echoing from all around us, almost seemingly drawing closer and closer…

“What in the hell is this place?” I asked, looking around.

However, I never got the answer to that question. Before the three of us stood some kind of possessed Arcanine, now looking way more feral than before. Also, his fur showed very strong cases of disease and contamination. Instead of having orangey-red fur, it was of a putrid green and violet color while his eyes were of two glowing, yellow spheres. Meanwhile, Raftina looked pretty uneasy.

That’s Rautaketju. He’s the embodiment of disease and contamination. Milord, do not let him wound you, as his very teeth and claws carry the most sickening of vile toxins and disease.

I looked at him again, and even his breath spewed out a cloud of sickening toxic vapor. Meanwhile, we had plenty of area to fight, but it was nearly like fighting in the middle of the night. It was difficult to see and I sure as hell didn’t want to get caught off guard.

“Come on.” I told Lucied, looking toward Rautaketju and ready to fight, “If we could handle Moor Gault, we can handle Rautaketju as well.”

I was then poised to strike. We couldn’t let this stop us…

[Knightblazer]

OOC:Nah, I'm cool. But Rautaketju? Where didja get THAT name from? O.o...

[Rautaketju’s Trial]::[Courage Sanctum]::[Remains Island]::
Hour Of Ho Oh – Outbreak

I stared at the sickly green and violet Arcanine that looked at us with his unearthly yellow orbs, and sweatdropped. A representation of disease… “That really doesn’t sound comforting…” I muttered with yet another sweatdrop. Just then, Rautaketju let out a gas of toxic absentmindedly from his decaying mouth. I wrinkled my nose in disgust. “Ungh, this smells a million times worse then… any other horrible stuff I’ve ever faced.”

You were expecting something else? Asked the winged Espeon.

“Well, no but… whoa!” I shouted, leaping with lightning speed as the demented Arcanine leaped at us. Careful not to let that unholy beast touch me, I leaped, banked and ducked every attack Rautaketju was aiming at me. The Chief was thinking along those same lines too as he dodged the various attacks in the air. I quickly let out a Shadow Ball and slammed it against the Arcanine, causing it to fly… again. Man, my attacks were getting a tad stereotyped now…

Chief dodged the flying beast, this time flipping backwards as he propelled the Arcanine even further with his power Razor Wind attack. The cutting gales met their mark, hitting the beast hard. Green ooze seeped from his gashes and cuts, the obnoxious stench causing me to flinch. Oh, hell… it was just disgusting…

I quickly leapt further behind and shouted to the Chief, “Chief! Keep him busy, will ya?” He agreed, and erm… entertained the Arcanine with his stunning electric attacks and moves as I charged a Hyper Beam attack. Raftina assisted the Chief in the meantime, directing the beast’s attention with several of her attacks when the Chief was in near danger. Finally, I had a fully charged Hyper Beam at the ready. “Chief! Raftina!” I yelled. The Chief heard it, and immediately sped off when he saw the aura now surrounding me. However, the beast was a bit too caught in with Raftina, who was regaining altitude from her last attack. The Arcanine’s paw swiped towards her…

NO!

Time now seemed to slow as the Hyper Beam shot out from my mouth. The ivory white pillar of energy seemed to crawl as Rautaketju’s paw slowly descended towards the winged Espeon. With a sickening splurging sound, the Arcanine’s claws were fully sedated into Raftina just as the beam connected with Rautaketju. With a loud roar, the beast flew back by the force and slammed against the front of the cathedral. The resulting impact caused cracks to appear all over the building. I then had a flash of inspiration.

“Chief, let out your Zap Cannon towards the building!” I shouted before charging up another Hyper Beam. We did it quickly, and soon another ball of glaring white energy was in between my mouth, and a bright yellow one in between the Chief’s two grubby paws. With a shout, both of us simultaneously unleashed our attacks towards Rautaketju. The white and yellow pillars swiveled together and formed a helix that crashed straight into Rautaketju.

A final roar came from the Arcanine as it slammed into the cathedral itself and the force now causing the building to cave in with a loud crash. I immediately rushed to Raftina, only to let my jaw drop when I saw her standing at looking at me in mild amusement.

“Raftina! I thought you were…”

[B]Dead? No, I cannot die, as I have told you – we are tiled to the Stone we are enthroned with.

“Uh… yeah, I remember!” I exclaimed with a sheepish smile. Just then, Justine’s voice boomed again. Truly wonderful, the three of you! Now, please head for the next of my guardians. Once again, another portal appeared in front of us, and after another round of acknowledgement, we leaped into the swirl once more… and appeared into the new chamber approximately three feet into the air.

“WHOA!” I yelled as I plummeted towards the ground, only to have myself whapped with branches and twigs before landing with yet another ‘Oaf’ onto the ground. Raftina and the Chief landed besides me soon after. It seems you’re fine… now who will Justine bring next…?

Our answer came with a rumble of the ground below us. The Chief and Raftina took into the air once again, while I had to tap dance as cracks began appearing all over the surface. Quickly, I leapt to a rock and felt my jaw drop once more as a darker, more vicious looking Sandslash burst put from the ground.

“Raftina…?” I asked, seeing her and the Chief landing besides me once more.

He is Grudiev, the beholder of Earth. Be careful, milord, for he has complete control over the earths and soil.

I watched as the Sandslash summoned up a huge, earth made Groudon to arrack us and paled.

“I’m really beginning to hate these Guardians…”

Knightblazer

[Shen]

OOC: ACK! Two days, guys! Why can't you give a guy a break?! I've got a lot to do to catch up...

IC:
Seratine
The Windblazer

That Mightyena had many words of wisdom. I looked away in shame at his words as he stepped into a whirling vortex and disappeared.

"Landon, I told you..." Zhunjai said softly.

"I know. It's just...my anger burns so fiercly for him and the damn Pyro Dragon that I...couldn't stop..." Tears flowed even more down my face.

Then Neo landed next to me. “Look, don’t be too hard on it, Landon.” he told me, giving me his assurance, “You’ve got a lot of guts and courage, and I think that’s gotta count for something. You’ve got to be careful though, this Kabutops is really strong, much tougher than anything I’ve fought before. Still though, you will be a great warrior someday. I can see one of my best Windblazers in your eyes…”

"Thank you Neo..." I sniffed, smiling even through my sadness.

Then, the most magnificent Donkarasu landed next to me. This must've been Neo's mount, because they spoke like it.

“Let me go with Landon, Neo.” the avian told Neo, “He doesn’t have a mount yet and… you already do have your own pair of wings.”

I looked up. Was he...offering to be my temporary mount, so I could travel with the Stone Holders?! I felt extremely honored.

After a little discussion, it was decided. I was to travel on the Donkarasu's back with Neo flying on his own. I bowed to the two of them. "Thank you. I won't forget this, Neo..."

I turned to the other three. "Yanira, Roy...Zhunjai...I want you guys to stay here. Please help and supervise the reconstruction of this city and its inhabitants. I need to do this alone."

Zhunjai stomped her foot down. "No Landon! I though we agreed that we'd do this together! We need each other, and I won't do anything without you. I'm coming with."

I felt like my face was going to burn right off. I nodded in defeat. "You're right Zhunjai. I'm sorry. It's okay with me, as long as it's okay with, uh..." I looked up to the Donkarasu. I didn't hear his name get mentioned. I've gotta listen more...

He raised a wing in greeting. "Narsaka, at you're service. I don't mind one bit."

"No, we are at your service, Narsaka. True to the Windblazers, I veiw all winged creatures as sacred and respectable ones." I bowed to him. "Thank you once more."

Yanira and Roy stepped forward. "We'll stay here, Landon. No need for more than two on this voyage." Yanira said kindly. "I fancy livin' in a civilized setting again, once we get this mess straitened out."

Narsaka extended a wing to allow me and Zhunjai to get on his back. I climbed carefully, this being my first time on a bird like this. I mean sure, I had ridden a Pidgeotto once a couple of days ago, but Narsaka was bigger, so I sighed in relief as I sat down on his back in front of his wing joints. Zhunjai joined me soon, having gotten up quicker.

"We ready to go?" Narsaka asked as we settled in. Zhunjai and I nodded. "Then we're off to Remains Island!" He quickly shot out his wings and took off, leaving the ground far behind.

I heard Yanira and Roy yelling luck to us, their voices becoming fainter and fainter as we rode into the sky. I couldn't help letting a laugh of exhileration escape my throat.

"You seem to like flying a lot." Narsaka remarked, "You'll be a fine Windblazer!"

For an hour, we flew to the southwest, making for the island off the coast from Delta Green territory. I quickly got used to flying. Maybe I could be a great Windblazer after all...

"Gengar, six O' clock!" Narsaka yelled. I looked back.

The Pyro Dragon's servents were persuing us. The lead one yelled, "We will protect the one chosen by our master for the Stone! You will all die!"

The powerful Donkarasu sped up, quickly leaving them in the dust. However, he jerked slightly as he saw some Gengar suddenly in front of us, going on the offensive. Then, I got an idea.

"Narsaka, barrol roll. I'll take 'em out!"

"You got it!" He rolled to the left.

As we flew into the midst, I warned Zhunjai to duck as I let loose a powerful Thunder attack at them. I was careful not to shock Narsaka, but with him rolling in the sky, it was easier. The Gengar were all struck hard, and fell from the sky, dissolving into shadow.

Narsaka stopped his barrol roll. "Nicely done. You could be as good as Neo someday."

"Not at the rate he's gathering power." I said with a smirk.

[STORMTROOPER X]

OOC: I've been terribly inconsistent with Stones and now all I can compensate it with is a short post? *Grabs nearby lampost and starts banging head* Bad Stormy! Very bad Stormy!



Location: Desert Region

Having found a lost colony of ancient Sandshrew and Sanslashes the trio traveled through the rubbled city searching for anything worth value.

“Say what do you think killed these people off anyway?” Zig questioned.

“Who knows,” replied the Kingler “Could have been a sandstorm. If it were strong enough it could easily destroy an entire civilization. It would also explain why everything is so well preserved too.”

They trudged on coming across little to no treasure where ever they crossed. The troopers started to lose interest in the city and had already set their sights on to bigger and better things such as finding one of the legendary stones.

“There’s not much loot around this dump and I’m getting tired of just walking around these blasted streets so I vote that we get back to the surface and find one of those stones before someone else does.” stated X

“Wait!” replied Zig. He was too determined to leave the city without at least coming out with come sort of trinket for himself.

“You see that tall structure way over there?” the Zigzagoon pointed to an enormous structure that towered over all the other buildings within the vicinity “That place looks like a king’s palace. If there would be any treasure around here it would have to be there. If we check it out and find nothing then I’ll have no objections to leaving, but if we don’t I’ll go by myself and catch up with you guys later.”

X pondered Zig’s plan of action for a moment, but came to a swift decision.

“Fine. We’ll check it out. If there’s nothing there we leave this dump. Simple as that.” X stated.

“Deal.” Zig replied

The trio made their way to the towering behemoth of a building and soon enough they arrived at the front doors. The doors were the size of a giant. They were composed of pure gold with intricate designs scattered all over the flat surface truly fit for a king. It seemed like their search was finally over.

“Lets open these bad boys up and see what’s the surprise inside.” Zig stated.

Zig slowly opened the door believing that his prize was found at last.

[Shen]

OOC: Good to have you back, Storm...y. *Laughs* Okay, I've had my laugh. Hope you continue to post.

IC:
Skies above the Peninsula of the Unown Ruins
A Strange Alliance

"Yes, that took me back, when Neo and I first met." Narsaka said, burying himself in his memories. "Ah, sweet memories. Of course, that was back when Sukuraiakos Denathos was leader of the Windblazers-"

"WHAT?!" I yelled, realizing what he said. I couldn't believe my ears, and they're very good. "You...you did say 'Sukuraiakos Denathos,' right?" He nodded. "I can't believe it..."

"Why, do you know him?"

I nodded. "Yeah, back before a certain incident gave me this scar." I indicated my desecrated left eye. "My name is Landon Denathos. Sukuraiakos is my father."

"Well now, this is an honor!" He replied happily. "I never knew he had settled down after leaving the force to Neo..." His expression darkened. "Wait...what d'you mean, 'certain incident?'"

I sighed. This was the most I had ever revisited that day in the two months my family had passed on. Three times in two days...I prepared what I had to say. "I'm afraid...Sukuraiakos is dead." I flinched inwardly as I saw his astonished expression. "This happened about two months ago, when I was still a Pichu..."

We flew on as I explained the story to Narsaka. Zhunjai was unusually quiet during my explanation. By the time I had finished, we were over the ocean, the rising sun to our left. Narsaka stared forward for a few minutes after I stopped.

"So, the invincible Raichu is gone now...I never would've thought it possible. He boasted such successful campaigns while in DARK, that we thought him undefeatable..." He sighed. "But, I suppose, having a family to worry about makes things harder." The Donkarasu looked back to me. "Were the murderers ever found?"

This time, Zhunjai answered for me. I don't think I could've answered on my own anyway. "Yes, we found them. But, in Landon's anger, he had killed them."

"I'm not to proud of it..." I closed my eye.

"Yes, death on the battlefield is never pretty...however, I suspect you'll see more of it in the inevitable war, if Makuta rust is not stopped." His eye shown with a spark that showed his inner fire. "Be prepared that you may kil again as well..."

"Makuta...rust? You mean the Kabutops?"

"Yes, many of the veteren Windblazers identified him yesterday as soon as they saw him. Even his changed form couldn't hide the killer beneath." He looked forward again. "We face a difficult fight, with many casualties. No doubt, only a fraction was caused by the attack on Seratine."

"I'm prepared. I won't underestimate any opponent or situation, not after our disasterous trip beneath Mt. Blaze."

"So, that's where you were." He gave a small laugh. "Many at Lesalas had wondered where the scarred Pikachu had gone, especially a certain little Minun." I blushed as I remembered her. Zhunjai and I exchanged glances. I had told her about that before we went on our independent campaign. "You have a bit of a reputation in the DARK capital."

"But, I didn't do anything until now." I was confused. "Was it just the way I looked that sparked this?"

"Probably. But many at the dance at Neo's 'palace' had noticed you speaking so naturally with him, even if it was your first meeting." He smiled at me. "Many are expecting quite the warrior out of you."

"I only hope I can live up to their hopes..." I said as I saw Remains Island rise out of the ocean as we drew nearer. Shrubs and trees covered the base of a mountain, which was bare the last half up. Smoke from fires rose from the vegetation. "It appears that our dear friend Makuta rust has started the party without us." I looked back to Zhunjai, a smile on my face.

She gave a small laugh, her eyes furrowed in anger, but a smile still on her face. "Then we must remind him of his manners."

"Right then, prepare for descent. I'm going to set you down on the shore nearest us." Narsaka warned. We took hold as he began to go lower in the sky, the sea and land coming up awfully quickly. I was confident of the veteren Donkarasu's abilities.

We set down in a manner of seconds. Already, the sounds of battle filled our ears. Zhunjai and I hopped off of the avian's back. "I'll scan around the island." Narsaka said, "Don't get into too much trouble. At times, I may not be near enough to help."

"Understood." I nodded at Narsaka. When he had taken off, I unsheathed my shirasaya, sharpening it on my breastplate. Maybe it was a good idea to hold on to the Pyro Dragon's "gifts" after all. "Ready?" Zhunjai shouldered her mace and nodded. "Well, prepare for a taste of Hell then."

We ran up the coast, drawing closer to the battle. I mentally prepared myself. I vowed to follow the words of caution that the Mightyena had offered. I also told myself that this was not revenge. I was doing this for the people in Lesalas and the other cities of the main continent, not to avenge Cameron.

As we got nearer, a voice in my head appeared, saying, So, you have arrived, Chosen of Dragons...

"What?" I looked around. The voice was new, so unlike any I had heard. "Who said that?"

I am Deoxys. He responded in my mind again. I can see you have not realized who you are yet...nonetheless, the other two Stoneholders are underground at this moment, while we fight the Hellfire Stoneholder. Will you aid us?

I was a little hesitant at first, but my resolve to help those on the main continent won over. "Fine. Hope we can help!"

Zhunjai and I ran through the brush, into the chaos of battle.