Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: The Phantasmagoria

Chapter 24

Entercards

A trail of swept up dust followed the back wheels of a carriage as it traveled down a narrow roadway carved into the sand. With no clouds in the sky, the sun came down hard on the roving caravan. Sweat accumulated around the brow of a Rapidash pulling the wagon along, its thoughts only concerned with the empty trail that lay ahead.

Aboard their wagon of miscellaneous goods were wooden boxes of various ores and materials harvested from the region's mines, a layer of woven rope sealing them in place. A sole Ampharos guarded the product as it leaned against the large crates, the stetson atop its head lazily drifting across its eyes.

Sleep nearly came for the Electric-type, head nodding to the peaceful rumblings of the carriage moving across sand and small rocks.

BOOM!

A cracking noise ruptured the motionless desert air as the front wheel of the carriage exploded into chunks of wood, Rapidash letting loose a shocked whinny. It broke away from the trail in a panic, rolling the incapacitated carriages onto the rough terrain beside the road. Silence came afterward as the Fire-type looked around frantically in hopes of spotting what made such a racket.

The Ampharos on board eventually recovered its bearing, breathing a sigh after its nap was disturbed and jumping off the carriage to investigate, waltzing around the front to shoot a quizzical stare at the shocked equine.

"What's the issue this time? Didja run over a Blast Seed or somethin'?"

Rapidash sputtered at his casual comment, stomping his front hooves into the sand. "Blast Seed?! There was no explosion, and that noise was too loud to come from one! Didn't you hear it, too?"

Amphraros rolled his eyes, fixing his hat. "Are you gonna get spooked over every sound out in the boonies? At this rate, we won't reach Empyrean City on schedule, and then the higher ups will have our behinds for dinner."

"I'm serious. What if it was bandits making that noise? I heard they ambushed two other caravans on the other main road just today alone!"

"First off, the Council sent guards to patrol the roads, and second off - you're not helping our chances of leaving this region safely when you stop all the dang time. Now, let's get back to it already; I'm sick of the heat."

Rapidash readied a response, but found his attention drawn to something else - the carriage's frontal right wheel. "Uh, I don't think we can do that now. Look!"

Ampharos entertained his suggestion, glancing over, only for his heart to utterly sink at the sight. "Oh… you gotta be kiddin' me here," he mumbled to himself, trudging over.

An entire half of the wheel was blown off, chunks of its wood scattered along the roadside. In the state that it was, there was no feasible way that the carriage could be pulled by a single Pokemon - they were stuck here. The sounds of soft thuds and footsteps beyond the sandy hills that surrounded them were lost on the investigating pair.

"Well, consider our expected and timely arrival a bust," Ampharos grumbled. "We're gonna need to get help and look for assistance; say our wheels got disabled by rocks."

"It wasn't a rock, though! It had to be the noise that did that!" Rapidash concluded. "What do you think it was?"

Amparos knelt down to further inspect the wheel, a small fragment of metal was wedged into the wood - a bullet to his eyes, undoubtedly. Immediately after his observation, three young looking Pokemon leapt from the obscuring hills behind them - a Bayleef, Crocanaw, and a Quilava - dusty white cloth wrapped around their bodies and faces to shield them the elements.

The Croconaw pointed their sole rifle at the pair, barking out a muffled order. "Both of you stay still! No one moves and no one gets hurt! Got it?"

Rapidash emitted another aghast whinny. "Okay! Okay! Just take what you want, man!"

"And they said it'd be safe on the roads with one Pokemon for protection…" Ampharos grumbled, raising his paws and staying still. "Can't you vermin go after the guards patrolling the area and not us Pokemon just trying to make a living?"

"Shut it!" the Croconaw yelled, angling its head to signal to his accomplices. "We're taking the ores and half of whatever water supplies you got, ya hear me?"

"Tch, as long as you leave enough for us to survive out here."

The quiet Bayleef and Quilava quickly got to work, hopping aboard the carriage and cutting loose the rope holding the crates of ore together. They opened various containers of merchandise that were chock-full of seeds, Wonder Orbs, and other battle items. These were immediately pocketed into the saddlebags they carried.

"Hey!" Rapidash shouted at the two, throwing a look at the Croconaw. "You said you were just taking the ores and some of our water!"

"We're taking whatever we need," the Water-type said. "We need these more than you guys do, got that?"

"So you can attack more caravans and get more innocent Pokemon hurt," Ampharos growled, squinting his eyes at the robber. "That's how you're gonna fight? Get more 'mons to rally against you?"

Croconaw scowled at his claims, marching over until his rifle was inches from the Electric-type's face. "Listen here. Fighting back is the only way our voices will be heard! We're dying out here while the Council tries to arrest us for simply trying to live, and…" His voice trailed off as he looked off into the distance, eyes wide and mouth ajar.

Ampharos followed his gaze in confusion, but instantly cracked a winning grin at what he saw. "Haha! Looks like you're out of luck this time. Cavalries here!"

Blazing down the road and spewing a storm of dust beneath their wheels was a long corridor of other carriages that steadily got further and further towards the isolated group. Fear was stricken into the hearts of the bandits as they watched with gaped mouths.

Crononaw regained his bearings, waving his rifle at his comrades. "Get out! We're outta here!" he screamed, making a break for the hills.

The Bayleef and Quilava obeyed the hectic order and scrambled down the carriage in a panic. A trail of stolen items fell from their open saddlebags as they fled, leaving behind a stunned pair in their wake as they watched the ensuing freight of transport rumble the sandy route.

" A-are those actually guards?!" Rapidash exclaimed.

"They showed up in the nick of time to save us, but… I don't think so."

Eventually, the convoy reached their eyes, and it served to only confuse them even more. At least a dozen of the equine-pulled vehicles were full of Pokemon and little cargo - Drilburs, Gurrdurrs, and other Ground-type Pokemon that crowded around the railing and gazed at the marooned pair. One that zoomed past even held an assortment of Pokemon that wore black scarves with yellow stars on them.

Clearly they were not guards of any kind.

Their attention was then drawn to a single carriage that disembarked from the road and rolled in front of the staring pair. An Excadrill merilly hopped down from the railing and began strutting its way over to them while wearing a large grin. The worn suit of grimey metal tools and card-like objects jostled across its waist, at odds with the formal tie hanging from its neck.

"Howdy, boys!", the mole cheerfully bellowed once near. "You two look like lost tourists out here!"

Ampharos blinked, eventually finding his tongue. "We're not! We're, uh, part of a caravan headed north, towards Empyrean City."

Rapidash nodded eagerly at his partner's words. "Yeah! We were skipping past Sanctus Town 'cause of the protests, then we got ambushed by bandits!" the horse explained.

Excadrill chuckled, "Caught a glimpse of those cowards runnin' with their tails tucked beneath their legs with my binoculars. Must've saw my posse comin' down the road and thought we were guards, sure of it."

Ampharos looked behind the Ground-type to see more of the carriage's speed down the road. Three Pokemon caught his eye - an Aggron, Tyranitar, and a Garchomp - the world famous Team Drarosteel for sure. It felt like he was dreaming of this encounter, and only made him wonder more who these Pokemon were.

"Course… I ain't gonna leave you two stranded out here," Excadrill continued, glancing at their carriages busted wheel and harrumphing at the sight. "Council guards ain't gonna bother to help ya, but I'll be happy to bring ya along for a bit."

Rapidash snorted with happiness, stomping the ground. "You'd do that for us, man? We got a schedule to maintain, and being late would kill us!"

"Ain't no skin off my nose. Even got a few workers to help you take your merchandise aboard."

Ampharos sighed in relief, tipping his hat in gratitude. "Thanks a bunch. But if you guys aren't guards, then who are you?"

The mole's face lit up with pride as he straightened his tie. "Right now we're on a little, uh, expedition and…" He halted his rambling and dug into one of the many pockets of his suit, retrieving two business cards. "Forgot that I'm not supposed to say anything, so y'all just take these while I help load your stuff."

Both Ampharos and Rapidash exchanged looks of apprehension before taking the cards, the latter of which awkwardly holding it with his teeth.

"Now, if y'all or your friends ever need assistance in the Grit Region, you know who to go to!" Excadrill explained, taking this as his exit and walking away to signal his workers for assistance.

Ampharos looked down at the square of rough paper, raising a brow at the detailed art of uncovered ruins and treasures buried in the sand. Text was displayed over a strange card-like object exploding orange colored lines out of its frame.

'Grit Ruin Excavators: You find it, we'll dig it!'

'Sure is a lot of sand out here.'

Roark watched the motions of the desert whirl by with his arms crossed on the wooden railing, head nodding to the constant rumblings of his and other carriages' hitting the road. It was either the boredom of being stuck on an hour-long ride, or the lack of anything interesting being witnessed along the way that forced him to stave off napping on the deck.

'For the love of Arceus or whoever, don't fall asleep like an old 'mon; that's how Charizard got known as Snorizard, don't you remember?'

For a split second, he thought of reaching into his mane for a quick sip of liquor to get energized, but quickly shot down that idea. He was trying to stay sober for these new missions, where all the stops were pulled out. If everything was getting a bit more serious, he'd at least try and make an effort to be more serious.

Of course, serious and him just weren't a great combination.

'Oh, yeah, still gotta remember to embarrass sis about her heroic stunt yesterday.'

Thinking back on it now, he wore that proud brotherly smile hard during her small speech. He was glad to see her evolve into this Pokémon that cared so much for helping others. That glory of hers she desires seemed to get closer into view each shining moment she demonstrated. And yet, it sort of saddened him in a way to realize this. Like happy hour at his favorite bar was about to suddenly end.

'Was always wondering why parents got sad about their kids leaving the house. Guess I know why now.'

When she was ready to figuratively spread her wings and fly on without needing anyone to help her, he would end up at another crossroad in life - another purpose to seek and fulfill in the next chapter of his life on this strange world.

'Whatever lies next… I don't think drinking and hitting on the nearest chick for a night of fun is gonna be in my cards later on.'

Perhaps the guild's thirst for answers and discovery of the world's truth would quench his own desires for something grand. If it wasn't, then he would have to find another outlet to find a purpose in.

'Well, no point moping about what ifs. Guess I'll go see what the others are up to.'

Quietly chuckling to himself, he broke away from the railing and began meandering around the carriage. Stepping past other chatting guild members, he scoured his limited space before landing his sights on his favorite target. A smirk grew on his face as he slyly approached, the pair stopping their discussion once he came in view.

"Ladies! How are we doing over here? How did it feel to give Shaymin a much needed beatdown?"

Monferno's unamused glare was a stark difference from Braixen's polite chuckle into her paw at the Dark-type's wording.

"Quite fine, Roark," she transitioned cleanly. "We were just discussing our past jobs and experiences together, nothing much."

"Ah, was it that one job where Monferno got stuck in a Pitfall Trap, and you had to get the client you were sent to rescue to come help him out?" Roark laughed up a storm. "C'mon, even you have to find that a bit funny, Mony."

Monferno rolled his eyes. "Did you just come here to be an asshole?"

"Nah… Well, kinda, but I think I have a question for you two."

Braixen tilted her head. "What kind?"

"Why'd you stay? I mean, I know Team Nightshade just wants the fame and money that comes with saving the world and that junk, but what about you two?"

Monferno and Braixen looked at each other, before the former decided to answer first.

"I stayed because I really think this is my second chance at proving myself here," the primate admitted, snorting. "Yuck it up all you want, but I can't really do this whole guild thing without Braix by my side."

"Pretty admirable for yourself," Roark commented, switching his attention over to Braixen. "What about you, though? Everyone thought you were leaving to pursue some fancy nursing job elsewhere."

Braixen smiled at the thought. "My parents would love that, and it would be nice, but…" She briefly looked at Monferno, sighing contentedly. "I realized I didn't want to throw away all the time I've spent here with everyone. And maybe being known as more than just a nurse is something better to shoot for."

"Big goals for the both of you, eh? Gotta say, pretty proud and happy that you two stick around like that."

Monferno switched gears, snickering. "Okay, you hassled us enough. But what's keeping you around, Roark? Is that mid-life crisis I always hear about hitting you hard or something?"

Roark chuckled. "Hey, I've still got the amazing looks and energy to keep up." He crossed his arms and took a deep breath. "I don't believe there's a 'truth of this world' or whatever the guild thinks, but I'll stick around 'cause maybe there's something in it for me. If you knew my past, you'd know what this old fox might be capable of…"

"Uh huh, I'm sure."

"I believe your claims," Braixen piped up, smiling upon seeing her partner's eyes roll. "Gloria and Liam are partially responsible for my return, and I know your sister is happy we all decided to stick together."

Roark uncrossed his arms, looking past the pair and searching the carriage. "In fact, 'scuse me a second while I go bring those superstars over."

The Zoroark stepped away, walking past more guild members and the occasional worker of Excadrill in his way. Eventually he spotted the two Pokémon of Team Requiem observing the desert lands by the railings - separated and not side-by-side. He stopped himself saying anything to them, biting his tongue.

It was hard to tell their moods from afar, but he could deduce by instinct that something was up between them. And the fact that they said very little to each other while packing up for the ride. Gloria's attitude in particular worried him ever since she gave out that speech.

Whatever it was, he didn't want to immediately pry, and only hoped that the problem would be resolved before he would have to intervene and mediate like a good brother always does. He decided to walk back to Team Blazingheart, confident of his decision.

'Don't know what that kid did or didn't do, but he better make sure to mend things with her. For the both of us…'

Roark oversaw those two getting to know each other, start a team together, grow together, and he wouldn't accept them straying apart. After all, if they were gone, then what reason would he still have to stay with the guild? What purpose would he have left?

A small urge to drink away this feeling stirred within him, but was suppressed with a frown.

Liam was deep in thought, as was typical of the Riolu whose mind was constantly barraged and invaded by memories and familiar voices. But this time, his concern was only for his partner. So much so that admiring the wonderfully desolate lands of the Grit Region took a back seat to his inner troubles.

'What do I say to her? What can I even say?'

The events of yesterday were fresh in his mind; between everyone's decision, the plan, and Gloria's outpouring of emotions. He would be lying if he said he saw that coming, that such raw feelings could come out of the chipper and passionate Pokemon.

He adjusted his iron grip on the railing and stole a small glance at the Vulpix opposite of him, gazing out into the nothingness, her features seemingly expressionless but noticeably troubled. She didn't say much to him afterward, whether it was out of shame or some other reason that escaped him.

Whatever was going through her mind, he wanted to reassure her that everything would be fine. That all of the Pokemon around her would still be here moving forward.

'But then again, am I really in the right mindset to say that to her?'

As a Pokemon who struggled internally, yet kept an exterior of outgoingness, how could he help someone with a situation as similar as his?

'Guess I'll have to figure that out… Along with everything else.'

A few minutes would pass by until the lengthy road came to an end, the long line of carriages transitioning onto rough terrain. It was a bumpy ride, but it wouldn't last long, as something Liam would consider 'jaw dropping' entered his peripherals. The equine-like Pokemon pulling the vessels of wood gathered side-by-side, coming to a complete stop as their destination was finally reached.

The destination being an enormous hole burrowing into the desert's surface,

Liam was the first to get out, jumping down to the sands below in excitement and desire to see it up close. While the Grit Ruin Excavator workers clambered down and got to work, the guild quickly joined Liam just as stunned. Excadrill shuffled after the Riolu, quietly laughing to himself as he shouted.

"Here it is! The hole that Team Moonlight got my crew to dig all the way to the ley lines so long ago. It's amazing, ain't it? Just don't fall in! Ain't no way any 'mon could ever climb out of a hole like that!"

Liam and the others slowly approached the sides of the ginormous pit, eagerly taking a peek into the ravenous depths of it. It extended down farther than it initially appeared from simple observation, almost as if it reached down to the core of the world itself. Clumps of sand, clay, and rock tumbled off its deep sides and fell down to reach the eye catching anomaly lying at the bottom.

A strange layer of vibrant golden-orange covered the entirety of base, seemingly blocking any view further down. It occasionally fluctuated and pulsed a variety of orange and yellowish colors.

Garchomp shook her head, her sharp teeth forming a grin. "Can't believe this is actually a real thing… Thought it was just an exaggeration."

Scizor copied her head movements, "We would never lie about this. This was made through our desires for the truth, and we followed the mystery from there. But now I see it has changed since we unearthed the ley lines, and a barrier has formed…"

"Barrier, huh?" she questioned. "That's what we're calling these shield things?"

Before the inevitable breakout of discussion began, Excadrill pushed his way past the guild members and gazed into the chasm, a proud smile on his features. "It was Team Moonlight's belief combined with other theories that the source of the Mystery Dungeons were below us. Strange. It feels like only yesterday we did this, huh, Jack?" he reminisced, bumping the arm of the Shiny Lucario beside him.

"Yes," Jackson replied curtly. "Once we discovered the ley lines and how they expand and manipulate our reality, that was my team's evidence to adventure the world in search of answers. To investigate a threat that the Council didn't consider worthy of their attention."

Excadrill straightened his tie. "Yuuuup! And this big ole project here got me fired up to know about these strange lines. Shucks, I wouldn't know a lick about Entercards if y'all didn't show up and open my eyes to the truth!"

"Speaking of which… Please enlighten my guild about these 'barriers' and Entercard manipulation."

"All right, back on track!" Excadrill cleared his throat, pointing a claw at the aberration lurking at the hole's depths. "That is what we call a ley line barrier. These things are like bubbles or shields or something of that sort that form over ley lines out of the blue. They are impenetrable; no claw or tool strong enough that can break through this barrier. Buried relics, places, and even other dungeons are inaccessible if a barrier forms over it."

"Except there is one way to get through these barriers," Jackson added. "Show them."

"Right. Follow me, y'all!"

Excadrill turned his back and strolled back to the static carriages, passing by his busy workers as they unloaded the various crates of supplies. As the guild and Team Drarosteel followed behind, Liam took the opportunity to walk near Gloria, who kept her distance away from the others.

It took her a while to notice his presence beside her, and the small grin that resided on his face once she peeked over to see who it was. While she avoided any direct eye contact or spoken words, he was able to witness a faint smile across her lips. He didn't go any further, content with simply walking together.

It was just good to know that she was easing up a little.

Excadrill stopped in the middle of the flat clearing, waving his claws for the guild to back away from him, forming a circle of Pokemon around the mole. He then opened a pouch in his suit and procured a thin, card-like object. It was colored a dark gray and was metallic in nature, curious lines etched into its frame. The card was held up high for everyone to get a good look at it.

"This here is what we call an Entercard!" Excadrill explained, waggling it a little. "These little devices grant us instantaneous travel by manipulating and riding the ley lines themselves! Crazy soundin', aint it?"

A few interested or baffled murmurs cropped up among the unknowledgeable guild members, only serving to make Excadrill's smirk wider.

"These ain't modern by any means, and nobody knows where they originate from, but they're powered the same way a Darumaker or another doohickey is powered - Pokemon energy." He then laid the Entercard flat onto the sands. "Just like you have to occasionally refill your devices with energy, the same goes for Entercards. Now… watch this."

Pressing an indentation at the card's bottom frame, a mist of orange energy began to permeate the air, eventually hovering above the Entercard. Excadrill stepped back as he summoned a move from within - Mud Shot. Globs of muddy spheres that formed around Exadrill's shoulders were sent careening into the mist of energy and fizzled into nothingness upon contact.

He repeated this action multiple times before the haze was sucked back into the Entercard, the engraved lines on it now shimmering with an amber gleam. Excadrill picked up the now fully charged device, holding it high as whispers arose from the watchful guild.

"Give it a few attacks and it's ready for transportation!" He placed the device back down on the sands again. "But every Entercard needs a coordinate and a certain pattern to create said coordinate and pull from the ley lines, like a two way connection. When y'all have it prepared like I do now, then you're all set." He gave all the onlookers a straight faced look. "… Who wants to see somethin' really neat?"

Amazed nods and murmurs of agreement came from the Pokémon naive of what awaited them. Excadrill chuckled at their excitement, tapping the indentation on the card's bottom again and quickly running to merge with the crowd. Everyone watched with bated breath as to what would happen next.

Soon after the initial activation of the Entercard, the device began to expand, the metallic frame of it growing bigger sides. The engraved lines began glowing brighter and brighter, until the entire top layer of the card was encased in a blinding orange luminance. A light tremble shook the ground beneath their feet as strands of golden light that resembled ley lines erupted from the Entercard, coalescing into one brilliant, flickering pillar of energy that resounded throughout the area.

Liam held his unblinking stare, his heart thumping rhythmically in his chest, wonder and excitement taking over his mind. A quick glance to his side showed him that even Gloria was able to shake away her forlorn demeanor into shock and awe.

"Haha, and there she goes!" Excadrill shouted through the noise, stepping forward. "What are y'all waiting for? Set it up to only last a minute or so! Which means It's time to take a trip through them ley lines!"

Excadrill chuckled and wasted no time in jogging his way over to the eruption of light, merging into it and vanishing altogether - gone in an instant. Liam watched in fascination, glancing behind him to gauge the shocked or calm reactions of his fellow Pokemon. Clenching his paws and wetting his lips, he made a split decision and ran into the flaring Entercard. The rest of the guild was quick to follow his pace, merging one by one into the radiance.

Flashes of orange flooded the vision of everyone who stepped over the Entercard, never leaving their perception as a feeling of weightlessness rushed through their bodies. It felt as if they were being pulled by an invisible current in the water, going downward at alarming speeds. The whole experience was instantaneous, lasting only mere moments. When normalcy returned to the transported Pokemon, they found themselves in a sandstone cavern shrouded in darkness, the Entercard below their feet siphoning back its orange energy and returning to its standard form. A strange symbol dug into the rough sands they were standing on resembled the same pattern engraved into the Entercard.

Those guild members unacquainted with the device's method of travel appeared dazed and winded, some overly dramatic and stumbling to the ground in their stupor. Even Scizor and Team Moonlight had to readjust themselves to their new surroundings as various members of the guild engaged in ravenous discussion of what just happened.

Liam had to take deep breaths, but couldn't keep a smile off his face. He could draw a comparison back to when he, Gloria, and Rockruff fell from one of the Soaring Fall's waterfalls. It was scary, terrifying even, yet felt exhilarating to him after the moment. Now the only thought he had about these cards were what gates of exploration were now open to them. Throwing a look over to his partner, she seemed to struggle finding her footing. He quickly offered her his body as support to lean on, which she surprisingly accepted with a quiet mumble of gratitude under the Vulpix's breath.

Even something small like this was a win for him.

Excadrill laughed merrily at everyone's varying experiences, unfazed himself. "Once a specific symbol is engraved in a new Entercard, creating that same symbol on a spot of physical terrain will link 'em together, allowing instant transportation to that physical symbol. And you remember that 'barrier' from before? We just went straight through it, meanin' that Entercards are the only way to pierce it - experts secret."

"You mean to tell me…" Roark slowly wheezed out, holding his claws over his wobbling knees. "… That we're doing more of this shi- er, stuff in the future?"

"I hope so!" Rockruff gleefully retorted, still shaking his head free of dizziness. "That was awesome! I mean, this is so much cooler than boring carriage rides!"

Monferno rubbed his eye, smirking. "What? You need someone to hold your claws while we do it, Roark?" he joked, much to Braixen's chagrin and Roark's scoff.

"If they are necessary, then yes, Entercards will be used throughout our current missions," Jackson responded.

Garchomp analyzed this new claustrophobic area, looking behind to see only a collapsed excavation tunnel filled with rock. Turning her attention to what lay forward, she was met with the unmistakable pitchblack entity that was the entrance to a Mystery Dungeon. "If my experience with Entercards taught me one thing, it's that they're perfect for finding hidden dungeons," she mused aloud.

Excadrill nodded proudly. "Yessiree! But this dungeon in particular is very important to my crew, and I'll show ya why when I give y'all a tour. Trust me, ya ain't seen nothing like this before…"

Scizor stared at the lurking shadow, his throat tightening. "Is this… This is the dungeon you told us about?" he questioned anxiously.

"Yup. Dug it up almost ten years ago on the dot! This dungeon here is different from any others I've seen; one of those ancient villages from thousands of years ago that got swallowed whole by a forming dungeon."

Scizor didn't reply back, still staring down the unwavering dungeon entrance, a certain paralyzing feeling striking his limbs.

Garchomp went wide eyed. "A thousand year old village being entirely preserved like that? That's a very rare occurrence," she muttered to the nodding heads of Aggron and Tyranitar.

"Rare?" Aggron questioned, chortling. "Lass, that's a once in a lifetime find right here!"

Excadrill approached the shadow. "Accordin' to some of the text present throughout the Mystery Dungeon, it was once called Vita Village… Not anymore, I'm afraid." He turned to wave an eager claw. "C'mon! Lemme show y'all why this place is really special."

Now curious of the dungeon's prospects, the guild members treaded behind the mole as he merged into the shadow, many following in with a new excitement after the experience they just had. But the one Pokémon that didn't follow behind was Scizor, his lower extremities glued to the cavern floor as he looked at the Mystery Dungeon with a certain sickness manifesting in his stomach. It was unusual for him to feel this way, or at least out in public where his dutifulness was expected.

Garchomp was close to entering the shadow, but turned her head to spot Scizor standing alone by the Entercard symbol. Despite the Bug-type's usual stark and flat expression, she could expertly identify the unquestionable apprehension that he was silently emitting. They locked eyes with each other, the dragoness sending him a reassuring nod, then quickly disappearing into the darkness.

Gazing down, Scizor noticed his pincers quivering uncontrollably, breaths shallow. He did everything in his willpower to suppress these instinctive actions, ultimately ceasing his trembling and calming his breath and mind. Now was not the time to dwell on personal experiences irrelevant to their mission. After all, Garchomp was now counting on him.

He could do this.

Scizor forced himself to move forward, marching into the abyss of Mystery Dungeon's entrance with a mix of confidence and unease.

Vita Village

BF 1

A giant platform of artificial sand expanded from nothingness and planted itself under the feet of the arriving group. Antiquated homes and cottages constructed of stone or clay with straw roofs arose from the sea of black, quickly forming a wall around the edges of the platform. The chamber now resembled a place of commerce, littered with empty pots and stands void of any Pokemon to run. The roads that once both travelers and citizens alike now splintered off into corridors that led further into the dungeon's maze of near identical rooms. The faux sun that hung in the cloudless sky above them made its blazing presence known, yet no heat was felt, nor was there a wind for it to be carried on.

However, the usual formation of a typical Mystery Dungeon did not stop just there, as new structures began to appear in the blink of an eye. Multiple workstations, open cabinets of mining equipment, sacks of foodstuffs, battle items, and even a crate full of Entercards lined the room. Maps of other regions in Celestic, along with messy paper scrawls of different Entercard symbols and intertwining lines were pinned to the wall. The hallways that branched off from the large chamber and went further into the dungeon were blockaded with planks of wood or large stones, impeding any attempt to enter or exit the room. To finalize this overload of sights, two Drilbur that were tidying up the workstations stopped their efforts to happily wave at the bewildered newcomers.

Before any of the guild members were able to spout their rabid curiosity, Excadrill jogged over to the middle of the room and raised his arms, accompanied by a cheery smile.

"Welcome to the heart of the Grit Ruin Excavators! Where our second business comes into fruition - Entercard and ley line research!"

Garchomp wandered around the room in awe, followed by her just as amazed teammates. "You… You built this place inside a Mystery Dungeon? How is this even possible to maintain if the ley lines move so often?"

"Correction! They don't move unless every 'mon exits the dungeon," Excadrill explained proudly. "As long as a single 'mon stays and doesn't advance through the stairs, the layout of the dungeon doesn't change. All it took was generatin' a decent sized room and makin' sure the dungeon 'mons don't disturb us none."

"And here I thought the Cosmic Quilt Guild was the only group interested in the Mystery Dungeons," she murmured back.

"Well, thank Jack and his team for showin' me about these ley lines in that big hole out there so long ago. My eyes were opened, and so will yours."

The rest of the guild began to explore the converted room, taking in the mix of an uncanny, ancient village, along with the adjustments made by the Grit Ruin Excavators stretching along the area. A large portion of them would wander near the boarded up corridors after hearing the shuffle of footsteps behind them, peeking past the cracks or missed spots to see what was the culprit. The noises of which were quickly identified as coming from the constructed defenders - dungeon Pokemon. Seeing as there was no way for them to cross past the barricade and attack those inside the room, they instead paced around the corridors endlessly and mindlessly.

Excadrill noticed their curiosity and meandered over, his smile replaced by a frown. "If ya ever wondered why the ley lines need to go, take a good look at these 'Pokemon'. They might just be the Pokemon that once lived here, thinking they were safe and all, only to have their lives stripped away in an instant... And the Council wants to think there's not a threat to worry about," he said with heavy distaste.

Scizor's glare into the empty eyes of the dungeon Pokemon never strayed away, the sick feeling in his stomach returning full force. Jackson only momentarily observed the husk-like Pokemon, before glancing around the room and speaking up loudly.

"Attention! You have all been debriefed before our trip of what teams you will be splitting up into! Find your leader - they will give you a handful of Entercards, a list of symbols, and locations to test with those Entercards!" He crossed his arms behind his back. "Once you are familiar with using Entercards, you are to return to this Mystery Dungeon for reassignment. You may now begin training with your teams!"

As the guild hesitantly stopped their visual exploration and broke off into separate groups. Liam bit his lip in both anticipation and concern, for his only partner throughout this training was Gloria. There was no Roark to ease the tension and put a smile on either of faces, but he could fix this himself. The Riolu didn't waste any time in arriving by her side, the two of them silently standing side-by-side, averting any direct eye contact as they waited for their team leader to arrive.

But it didn't take Excadrill long to come over and access the two of them with an inquisitive smirk.

"Team Requiem! Might I say I'm glad ya stayed; had a nice lil' chat with y'all the other day." the mole said. "Green but determined I say, and I'm sure Jack sees that in ya too."

Liam beamed at the praise. "Thanks. We're just happy that everyone stayed with the guild, too."

Excadrill scratched his chin, chuckling. "Now… you're sure ya weren't born 'round these parts? I wasn't crazy when I noticed that faint Grit Region accent."

Liam shook his head. "Uh, nope! Was born in the Shore Region, sorry."

"Dangit! Well, ya still got the spunk of a 'mon from here and not those lazy sun soakers," Excadrill grumbled under his breath, reaching into one of his suit pockets and taking out a handful of shiny Entercards. "Bit of a learning curve with these, but I'm sure y'all will get the hang of it. Trust me, they're actually pretty dang fun to use!"

Excadrill then handed over the card-like devices to Liam, noticeably lacking a pattern engraved into their frames. "Gonna have to make your own pattern on the surface, put it in the card, then fill it up with some energy to get 'er energized. So… who wants to give it a go first?"

Normally, Liam would be quick on his feet to snag an opportunity like this first, but this time things were different. Turning to his partner, he extended the cards forward, a joking grin plastered on his face.

"Ladies first?"

Gloria appeared taken aback at first at his lax question, looking up at his cheesy expression and down at the Entercards he hoped she would grasp. Liam then got what he wanted, a smile slowly expanding across her muzzle as she looked up at him.

A smile that he didn't know he would miss so much.

Through swept up sand and orange arcs of light swirling around in the air in tandem, an Entercard expanded into existence from nothing, accompanied by a ring of flaring energy circling it. A shadow was visible through the light, canine and quadrupedal in nature, remaining in the pillar of radiance as the energy released quickly evaporated back into the card-like device.

Rockruff leapt from his now stationary Entercard, whipping his head around in amazement. "That… THIS IS SO COOL!" he yipped, stamping a paw into the sand. "I'm never gonna get over this! You guys agree with me, right? They should've shown these things to us a long time ago!"

His loud inquiry to the assortment of guild members lounging around had fallen mostly on deaf ears, most too tuckered out from the hours of back-and-forth Entercard they had endured. While Braixen and Monferno leaned against each other for support, Roark laid on his back and twirled an Entercard between his claws, looking ailed.

"Glad to see you're at least happy with this arrangement," the ruse fox grumbled. "But nah, these things are the death of me."

Monferno laughed, nearly rattling Braixen out of her drowsy state. "Can confirm. Me and Braix saw this geezer stumble out of his card and bend straight down to throw up. Braix had to shield her eyes."

"Hey, that ain't nothing new to me," Roark countered.

Monferno turned his attention to Rockruff. "Where's Mightyena and Purrloin? Wait. Lemme guess, they're probably out trying to rob or sucker some of the locals."

Rockruff sighed, sitting down. "Nope. They said they got 'motion sickness' or whatever after my sixth trip with the cards!" The puppy tilted his head. "Hey… Why did you think they would rob someone? Team Nightshade is all about helping Pokemon!"

Monferno raised an eyebrow, "You know they're-" He stopped to check if Braixen was still sleeping, then continued. "-thieves, right?"

"What?! No! Did Staravia tell you guys that? He tells fake rumors all the time, y'know!"

Roark chuckled sickly, "Hate to break it to you, but pretty much everyone knows, Rockruff. Petty thieves really, and they're not really good at hiding it."

Rockruff was dumbfounded, "I don't believe it! I mean, if everyone knew, then how come the Guildmaster doesn't? And if he does, then why would he allow them here if he's so careful and professional?"

The silence following his questions was seen as a victory to Rockruff.

"See, it doesn't make sense!" he proclaimed, puffing his chest out.

Monferno bit his lip, "I don't know. The Guildmaster has to know somewhat, but maybe that doesn't really matter to him? I mean, don't tell Braix, but if I was in charge, I wouldn't care all that much."

"But the guild wants like, the bravest and most good hearted Pokemon out there, right?" Rockruff wondered. "Pokemon like Team Drarosteel! Ones that could take the ley… whatever they are!"

Roark pointed a claw at the Rock-type from his supine position. "Which is why the Guildmaster might not care about backgrounds of certain 'mons, as long as they can help support the goal. He let my furry behind wander in without so much a look at my past, so why should he care about some low tier criminals when the world's supposedly at stake."

"Huh… I guess I didn't think about it like that," Rockruff admitted, before shaking his head. "But c'mon, guys, they're not thieves! When did you ever see them steal something on a job!"

"Whatever you say," Monferno said with a yawn, slowly lifting himself up so as to not disturb a sleeping Braixen. "Gonna go ask if Leafeon can make us some lunch, 'cause we earned it today."

Roark raised a claw into the claw. "Roasted Chesto Berries. Tell her if she makes 'em I'll be happy enough to kiss her."

"Gross, but okay," Monferno snickered, walking away from the group.

"Wait! Tell her to make poffins! The spicy ones! Spicy Poffins!" Rockruff shouted behind him.

He never got a reply back.

Monferno casually strolled through the sands, trekking up a small hill to survey the land. Besides the massive hole in the desert, the only other point of interest was the site of activity that was being rapidly built before his very eyes. Pokemon of the Grit Ruin Excavators set up tables, tents, campfires, and various other small structures suited for the mission, all the while wisps of orange Entercard travel light could be seen appearing and disappearing from afar.

He could have stopped here and enjoyed the view if it weren't for his rumbling stomach, so he continued walking. It wasn't long until he found her, sprawled out on the ground with a very worried look staining her once serene appearance. Her eyes were glued to the speakers of an ELE, almost anticipating for something to come out of the device. She was then caught off guard when she heard a voice to her left and not from the ELE.

"Hey, Leafeon. Rest of us have gotten pretty hungry from training, so how about you fix us up with some food?"

Leafeon didn't turn her head to face him, completely concentrating on the ELE. "Can't now. You'll have to, um, wait until dinner. Or get Gloria to help; she's good enough to hold her own."

Monferno sighed heavily, gazing down at the ELE. "Did the Guildmaster tell you to do this? What are you even waiting on?"

"No, he didn't. If he wants me training, tell him I will do it, but not now. I need to hear her."

"Hear who?"

A bead of sweat traveled down Leafeon's face as she swallowed. "Shaymin. I was talking to her yesterday and trying to get her to return, but… then she stopped responding."

Monferno scowled at the name, scratching one of his bandages. "Okay… and? She might've gotten angry at you or something else and is pouting."

"She wouldn't get angry at me!" Leafeon shouted back, before realizing her abrasive tone. "Listen, I know that you and everyone else here don't like Shaymin, but I know her as a friend, and she wouldn't just not tell me what's going on."

"Okay, okay. Are you saying she hasn't said a word since yesterday?"

Leafeon shook her head. "Nothing. Other than bits of static and some other noises that come through - but none are her voice." She stared into the ELE's speakers again. "I'm worried… worried that something bad happened to her while was flying, like she lost control and fell into a ravine. Or maybe she got into a fight with the guards and-"

Monferno held up a hand. "Relax, will ya? I'm sure she's fine. Legendary strength and all that stuff."

"... I hope so."

'Fuckers better hope I don't get outta here…'

Drops of water fell down from the cave's stone ceiling and accumulated into small puddles onto the ground, only to be stepped over and splashed against an angry Shaymin as she paced around. She looked past the gaps in the iron bars that prevented her escape and muttered multiple obscenities in her mind and under her breath.

'Just one slip up. One mistake of theirs and I'm free.'

She would search every nook and cranny for a possibility of freedom, yet was unsuccessful in spotting anything besides dead ends and pitch-black darkness barely lit by torches placed along the walls. Thoughts of luring her captors into the cell flooded her mind, a raging sneer affixed to her face as she contemplated it over and over.

"Please, child, sit and do not waste your energy," a weak but elderly voice to her right beckoned from the cell's dark corners. .

Shaymin snapped her enraged face over to the voice. "You just want me to lie down like a mutt and accept being caged up, dontcha? Well, tough shit, 'cause I ain't goin' down without a fight, you hear me!"

"... I only wish for your safety, child."

"Not needed, pal. Especially from a Legendary like yourself…"

The voice sighed at her tone, shifting his body out of the darkness and into a haze of the cavern's natural blue light. Its body was quadrupedal and rustic orange in color, feline in appearance, with cloud-like features forming around its four legs and a white 'beard' adorning its rugged face. But as he came more into view, the lacerations and bruises that dotted his body became more apparent. He sat stationary, clearly too injured and exhausted from a losing fight to stand.

Shaymin smirked slightly, "I wonder what the other Legends will think when they see their mate Landorus got beat up and held captive in his own shrine by some 'commoners'. That'll raise some eyebrows, ya think?"

Landorus flared his nostrils. "This situation was beyond my control, young Shaymin. We were outnumbered and overwhelmed by these... savages. But do not fret; our fellow Legendaries have witnessed our distress and will return to free us."

"Our?", Shaymin questioned with a glare. "As if you and all those other bludgers consider me to be on the same level. Don't make me laugh, mate. Maybe if I had an ugly shrine and brainwashed followers too, I'd be seen as equal."

"Child… I do not understand your ill will against your peers. Has the Shaymin clan's leader sat down to properly teach you the values of Arceus?"

Shaymin seemingly forgot her anger and burst into laughter, only serving to confuse Landorus more. "V-values of Arceus? Do ya really expect me to believe that indoctrinating junk? Just to serve other Legends like a slave forever and put 'em on a pedestal?"

Landorus dismissed her words with a puff of breath. "Arceus' teachings have always been paramount throughout time, and its structure is necessary to keep all Legendaries close together."

"Call it whatever you want, mate, but it's just an excuse to push us around. Hell, you're reminding me of Ho-Oh right now, with all his 'rules' and 'tradition' nonsense."

A reminder of the whole reason she was here right now resurfaced in her mind, reigniting her hatred of that Pokemon.

"Child…" Landorus said delicately. "You're young, angry, and confused about these principles. But in time, I am positive you will realize there is a greater purpose to our lives as Legendaries. We are to be good examples to Pokemon all across the world, just as Aceus willed it long ago."

Before another angry retort could come out of Shaymin's mouth, the squeaky noise of a wooden door opening just out of their sight halted her. Returning her attention back to the bars, Shaymin listened to both footsteps and also a strange slithering noise that got louder and louder each second. She wet her lips and formed an expression of defiance as two Pokemon entered her vision.

Besides the emotionless Golduck that delivered the blow to the side of her head beforehand, the coiled up Serperior staring straight at her with its predatory eyes exuded an entirely different aura. The flickering of the torchlight made the golden crown atop the Grass-type's head gleam in an almost royal manner, illuminating the smug smile that wormed its way on the snake's face.

"My, I had to personally see for myself if the reports were true…" Serperior mused softly. "But alas, another Legendary that couldn't challenge my darling knights." She noted both the large purple bruise on Shaymin's temple and the charred bits of green fur across her form. "And not a very pretty one at that…"

Shaymin approached the iron bars, containing her rage just for a second. "So, you're the big sheila in charge, huh?" She eyed the Pokemon up and down. "What, ya think you're some queen bandit or somethin'?"

"Princess," Serperior corrected astutely. "The title of queen is something I have yet to prove, but for now you may address me as Princess Serperior."

Shaymin snorted. "Oh, a loon. Like hell I will - not after your little thugs decided to knock me unconscious and stick me in here. I ain't gonna kiss your behind... wherever that is, so you might as well let me go."

Serperior glided across the rugged stone and got close to the bars, narrowing her slitted eyes. "You've got quite a mouth, young lady. I've read that Shaymin are supposed to be grateful; that they respect higher authority."

"Gratitude ain't my thing, so you can take your authority and shove it."

"... You should be grateful that you aren't a bullet riddled corpse rotting in the desert, sweetheart," Serperior said coldly.

There wasn't a quick response back as Shaymin swallowed the lump in her throat, the reality of her situation now overtaking her mettle. She was alone here, held to the whims of these murderous Pokemon.

Serperior honed her eyes to the black scarf with yellow stars wrapped around Shaymin's neck. "You are part of a guild or exploration team, correct? I did not know that Legendaries were allowed to join institutions like that."

It took a moment for Shaymin to respond, pushing her subtle fear away. "I… I ain't part of a guild anymore."

"Mhm, so there's no Pokemon out there looking for you, no clan of Shaymins that will want to reunite with their missing sister many continents away?"

Shaymin bit her lip and took a step back as the Grass-type inched her face closer into the bars. She was correct - no one knew she was here, not even Leafeon, and certainly no one from the guild would come to save her now.

"Do you want to hear a story?" Serperior asked with a smile. "I used to live on the Grass Continent with my father when I was a little girl long ago. We had to move to a big city, and live in a poor little house wedged between two alleyways. I hated it; the crowds, the insatiable Pokemon, the ugly noises and sights. You know what it's like to live in a foreign land, right?"

Shaymin didn't want to answer, but felt a pressure to nod her head.

Serperior smiled, "So you understand what it's like to act out in protest. And I did. I disrespected those who I encountered, even my dearest daddy. I stole - just small quantities from shops - but kept getting more bold. I was out of control and on a path of self destruction, until my father noticed. You know what he did next?"

Shaymin said nothing.

"Whenever I would talk back or fail to address him as 'sir', he would punish me, lock me into a small room for hours or even a full day. No food or water, only books of ancient history to read and pass the time. I was there many times, with only the knowledge of elegant kingdoms in the past to give me company." Her eyes glazed over, staring past Shaymin. "It was… pleasant. The way kings and queens demanded respect from all those below them, it taught me to respect my own father. It helped shape the wonderful woman that I am today, which is why I am telling you this."

Shaymin glared at the snake, fear hidden behind her angry green orbs. "... And why are ya tellin' me this? What's your deal?"

Serperior smiled darkly. "You remind me of my younger self, so brash and rebellious. If my darling knights didn't think death was your fate, then perhaps you have a new route in life. You just need a little... encouragement, hm?"

Shaymin slowly caught onto her thinking, eyes widening. "No…" She backed up again. "No, there's no way you'll ever get me followin' orders from you. Not happenin'."

"I said the same to my father once, and it's no different for you. In a position like this, I own you, dear," she hissed.

That emphasized word sent shivers down the Legendary's spine, bringing back her rage as she ran over to the bars and bared her teeth. "You think I'm gonna be your little pet slave?! Fat fuckin' chance!"

"That choice isn't up to you, darling. In time, you'll understand to respect authority, just like I had to." Serperior threw her head back and laughed haughtily, slithering away from the iron bars. "Next time I expect you to address me as 'your highness'. Otherwise… I'm sure there's some ways to get you to do so. "

As the Grass-type began to leave with her silent Golduck companion, Shaymin realized her intentions and erupted into anger, slamming her body uselessly against the separators. The pain didn't matter as much to her as escaping this place, lobbing obscenities as loudly as she could.

"YOU'RE A TWISTED FUCK, YA HEAR ME?!"

Serperior listened to the shouts and cries of her new captive fade into an echo as she traversed the cavern's hallways. She quietly hummed a tune and observed the numerous other jail cells she passed by. The followers of Landorus that once prayed at the shrine were now held as prisoners below it. They congregated in groups, whispering to each other out of fear or anger towards the Grass-type as she went by.

Twisting her head to her right, she spoke into the ear of the Golduck following by her side. "The Shaymin, are you sure she's not part of a larger Legendary group?"

"Yes, your highness. As far as we are aware, she has no involvement or greater understanding of our operations in the region. Just a stray that wandered in at night."

"Very well. Stay and continue your watch over the followers until further notice, Lord Golduck. As long as the Landorus is kept well, their tempers will be mellow."

Her clan's reasoning for taking over Landorus' shrine was purely for potential knowledge of Regi Castle. Her biggest source of information about the ruin had told her supposedly everything he knew, so the next best thing was the nearest location of a Legendary. But it frustrated her immensely to see the excavation efforts at Regi Castle reach a dead end, along with there being no worthwhile leads at this shrine to follow.

They needed a breakthrough, and she was going to get it.

Serperior slid up the stairs, exiting the dungeon and entering the daylight. The shrine once dedicated to worship of Arceus and the gift of agriculture was now littered with mercenaries and local bandits. Cracks of gunfire resounded around as many trained their aiming. She smiled at the Pokemon that stood out of the way and bowed before her as she slithered past, looking for a specific Pokemon among her knights.

She soon spotted the Krokorok sitting on a broken rock column and tinkering with a strange object. Curious, she moved towards him until he noticed her presence and stopped to bow, speaking in a dignified manner. Yet, her eyes remained on the Minun-like device, which had both ears and a speaker.

"Greetings, your highness. Is there anything I can do for you?"

Serperior extended a vine to grab the device out of his grasp. "Lord Krokorok, what is this… gadget?"

"It was found in the saddlebag of the Shaymin we captured, your highness. Oddly enough, we have heard a scrambled voice occasionally come from it, so I have attempted to figure out how it works."

She inspected it from all angles, using another vine to flick one of the switches on its side to see if it changed anything. The device was almost dropped from her clutches when a burst of loud static from the speakers jolted her senses. Suddenly, a female voice could be heard through the mess of static.

"Shaymin… Please… Are you there?"

Serperior's interest peaked, and after erasing her stunned expression, she attempted to speak into the apparatus. "... Hello? Can you hear me, dear?"

The response was instantaneous, "Yes! Um… Have you seen or talked to a Shaymin, miss? I really need to know!"

"Why, I believe I have. Are you a friend of hers?"

"Yes! Is she near a town or village? And is she okay?" the voice asked in a concerned manner.

Serperior formed an idea, smiling sinisterly. "She is, dear! Currently, she is being held captive by us at the Shrine of Landorus."

"W-What?... Who is this?! Are you pulling a prank on me? Please, I need to know where Shaymin is!"

"You are speaking to Princess Serperior of the Rose Clan, dear. And no, pranks are too uncouth for a lady such as myself. But this Shaymin character is here, and I will allow her departure if agreements are met."

The voice didn't reply for a moment. "You're that… What do I have to do to secure Shaymin's safety?! What are you doing to her?!"

"Calm down, dear," Serperior said coolly. "If you wish to see your friend Shaymin, I can agree to an exchange of fifty thousand Poké to the site of the shrine in return for Shamin's safety. How does mmm… three days sound? If three days pass, then I'm sorry to say that's the last you'll hear of her, dear."

The Grass-type waited for a response, but nothing came, so she flicked the device's side switch. "Keep an eye out if that Pokemon decides to follow up on my offer. We are keeping the Shaymin regardless if they bring the money. As for the other situation, have any of them been able to get through?"

"U-uh." Krokorok snapped out of his trance. "No, your highness. We had to stop and rethink our options over the evening."

An unexpected roadblock in their excavation of Regi Castle had halted her progress - an orange shield totally encasing the remainder of earth separating them from their reward below Regi Castle. Not even the hardest strike of a pickaxe or a teleport from a Psychic-type could break through the barrier. None of them had seen something like this before, and she wondered if it was some sort of failsafe created by the Legendaries from long ago.

"That is… unfortunate. However, I expect you are ready for what happens next."

"Yes, your highness. I will oversee the operation. Everyone is positioned accordingly."

"Excellent."

While the impenetrable shield was a setback, she knew the two ambassadors from the Alignment could turn the tides in her favor. If the plan was successful, she would eliminate her competition and also gain new Alignment secrets that the exiled commander could not tell of. Secrets that could allow her to get past the barrier.

But there was another issue.

The bandits she armed would only stall so long against the Council, and if they were informed of her intentions, an alliance between the Alignment and the Council would for sure stop at nothing to eliminate her clan. Combine that with her incessant rivals that always intrude on her desires, she knew time was of the essence if her clan was to live.

If all of these factions were to descend upon her at once, it would surely create the perfect storm.

A screeching noise from above filled their sleeping ears, jostling the two Pokemon out of their not so pleasant slumber on the floors of the dark shaft. They cracked their eyes open and stared up at the circular hole of flowing light that shined down on them - freedom it looked like. A long length of rope appeared through the grate's opening and fell to the ground beside the disheveled looking pair.

The message was clear.

Gallade was the first to move and grabbed onto the rope, beginning to scale it, a difficult endeavor after he was starved of most energy. A worried Heliolisk was hesitant to accept the offer, but any opportunity to escape this torture was an opprtunity he would take. After both of them gradually clambered to the top, they were greeted to the stern face of a Druddigon that held the rope in place.

"Get movin'."

Gallade took the Dragon-type's advice and began walking down the keep's crumbling halls. Heliolisk wasn't quick to do so, only moving after he was given a sharp glare from the Druddigon. He shuffled alongside Gallade and wringed his claws together nervously, leaning into his partner's ear.

"What the hell do we do now?", he whispered harshly, visibly frightened.

"Nothing," Gallade muttered back. "Not yet. Wait."

"And just wait for them to kill us?"

"Have faith. They need us. Wait."

It wasn't a satisfying answer to Heliolisk, but he had no plan himself. Tailed by the Druddigon, their conversation died down as they stepped through the open doorway and into the broad daylight. The ruins of the keep smackdab were in the middle of nowhere, with only desert plains and cliffs of sandstone surrounding them. The only company here was a gathering of hardy looking mercenaries that never took their eyes off the pair.

Looking up, blips of distant figures in the blue sky began to get larger and larger. Soon enough, multiple Flying-types were soaring above the keep and flying closer to the ground each second. Before they reached the ground, Gallade caught a glimpse of black capes flapping in the wind, attached to the backs of two Pokemon riding on their backs.

They were here, which implied they still wanted to talk.

Druddigon pushed the two out of their trance and forced them to keep walking forward. Weavile and Bisharp immediately hopped off Honchkrow's back once he landed, eyeing down the pair that stopped in their tracks. Weavile adjusted her saddlebag and closed in wearing a grin, Bisharp not far behind with an unreadable expression as always.

"How's the sunlight feel?" she said, accompanied by a snort. "Soak it in, 'cause you're not gonna be seeing it much anytime soon."

Heliolisk paled at her words, wetting his lips, "And what do you mean by that, huh? You keep us caged like slaves for another few days, we give you what you want, and then you kill us once we're not needed?"

"Trust me, if we wanted you dead, you'd be lying in a shallow grave already."

"How are we supposed to believe tha-'' Heliolisk was interrupted by a jab on his side from Gallade.

"We have already told you everything we could tell you," the Psychic-type said calmly. "Anything else would jeopardize our safety upon returning home."

"Yeah, well… Bishy and I think differently."

Gallade tensed up, but remained vigilant. "And what do you mean by that?"

"We're not done with you, is what we're saying," Bisharp suddenly spoke, crossing his arms. "There's a few details and a few stories we want to hear more about."

"And then after that… What?" Heliolisk questioned with a scowl.

Weavile approached the nervous Electric-type, leaning over him as he flinched. "Let me put your mind at ease, runt. You give us what we want, you return home safely to your little cult base, and everyone's happy."

"We'll do it," Gallade confirmed, shutting down the look of disbelief Heliolisk gave him with a side glance.

Weavile smirked, backing away from them. "Not like you had a choice in the matter, but hey, glad you won't make this difficult for all of us. We treat you like you're Pokemon with actual hearts in your chests, and the same goes for us."

"Weavile is right," Bisharp added. "You're being brought to a new location. You'll be given blindfolds to wear, and you are expected not to struggle, make a fuss, say or do anything along the way, got that?"

Gallade analyzed the plan's details in his mind, nodding and raising his right limb to his chest, pounding it. "I promise on behalf of the Allmother and Allfather that there will be no trouble caused by myself or my partner."

Weavile laughed at his stiff response, strolling around the area. "Glad to hear that, soldier boy. But we aren't taking off just yet." She looked around, flicking her gaze to the numerous large crates and other strewn about materials resting on the hot sands. "Clean up time, everyone! Get this stuff packed up on our fliers and get ready to be airborne!"

All of the mercenaries standing around mute immediately sprung into action as that command left Weavile's mouth. Crates and containers were pried or smashed open in some cases by more large and reckless Pokemon, the contents of which being transported into saddlebags or smaller separate boxes fit for aerial travel. The two captains oversaw these efforts, intermixed by brief conversations between the two.

Gallade and Heliolisk stood still and observed the mercenaries work efficiently as a team, unsure of their next move. This moment of respite would be cut short by Weavile, halting her chat with Bisharp to shoot them a look, a look that read for them to stop standing around and assist her mercenaries.

So they did.

Working under the scorching sun surrounded by nothing but barren desert and hostile mercenaries wasn't a job Heliolisk wished for, but his nerves were slightly calmed by having Gallade work beside him. The Druddigon from before was assigned to him, the both of them tasked with salvaging multiple wooden containers of their insides.

An hour of this went by painfully slow for the Electric-type.

After finding another lonesome crate, the Druddigon effortlessly ripped open the top layer. Inside were multiple rows of items fit for battle; Seeds of all kinds and various vibrant Wonder Orbs. Heliolisk looked down, a lone desire of retaliation entered his thoughts. Darting his eyes around the area, all of the other mercenaries were busy at work, not paying attention or keeping guard.

He looked back down into the open crate again, biting his lip at the chance he had now. He could blind the Druddigon with a Luminous Orb, and then act fast while the others were distracted and use an Escape Orb on him and Gallade before they could realize. They would teleport away and reappear almost five minutes away, giving them enough time to hide or run far away.

But one fact punctured a hole in his plan - no Entercards. Getting home without them would be no easy task, especially with an entire mercenary clan trying to find them.

A slamming noise to his right rattled him out of his daydream as Druddigon glared daggers into him.

"Work."

Heliolisk gulped and returned to his task of taking the items out of the crate, mind relinquishing his idea of escape. He was so frustrated that he couldn't do anything to help free themselves, and Gallade's way of peacefully working with the mercenaries was not helping his temper. He had a little brother at home, one that looked up to him and was waiting for him to come back home. He despised that he was such a coward compared to Gallade, that anyone else back home couldn't fight back against the nonbelievers that threatened them. The small amount of advice he had been given by the commander reemerged in his thoughts.

'Never trust a devil', he said. Devils, these Pokemon certainly were.

After a few minutes of sorting all the seeds and Wonder Orbs out of the crate and onto the ground, there was only one thing left to grab. A long container rested on the bottom, clearly heavy from the looks of it. Heliolisk sighed and went to grab it with a grunt, the Druddigon assisting him as they slowly hoisted it out of its confinement.

"All right, we lay it flat."

The Electric-type did just that, delicately dropping the rectangular box the same time his 'partner' did. He then took the moment to dust himself off, catching his breath.

Blood splattered against the wooden crate as a bullet pierced straight through Druddigon's right temple. The dragon flailed his limbs and dropped onto the sand instantly, letting out a few involuntary twitches before going still, eyes dead and lifeless.

Time slowed to a crawl around Heliolisk.

The ensuing crack of gunfire echoed, muting the shocked shouts and calls of the Pokemon around him. He slowly swept his frozen gaze around, watching the mercenaries flee their position in slow motion, yet he didn't move. His breaths were shallow, blood covered limbs quaking, yet he did nothing but look around.

Gallade tackled Heliolisk to the ground and scrambled through the sands on all fours as another boom from nowhere shattered the sky, both taking cover behind a large boulder. Heliolisk heaved back and forth, his eyes never left the smear of blood on the wooden crate and the Druddigon's body.

Another shot was fired that entered the skull of Honchkrow as he attempted to fly to safety, the crow smacking into the ground. Weavile and Bisharp were crouched behind their own slab of cover, the former whipping her back and forth in an attempt to scout out the attacker.

"Get to cover right now!" she barked.

As those who listened to her advice followed it, an eerie silence set in over the area, but Weavile knew it was far from over.

Sprouting pillars of light and a loud shimmering noise erupted on all sides of the crumbling keep. One after another, Entercards expanded into existence as ley lines uprooted from their natural location danced in the skies. The arrivals formed a ring of orange luminance around the keep, quaking the earth beneath their feet in its might.

"AMBUSH!" Weavile yelled, preparing herself for a battle.

Numerous Pokemon wearing rose painted breastplates charged out of their respective Entercards, some holding raised rifles while others built up energy in their outstretched claws and gnashing teeth. The mercenaries of Weavile's clan soon conquered their shock and stood their ground, charging up attacks of their own as the enemy closed in.

A battle commenced.

It was chaotic and bloody from the viewpoint of Gallade and Heliolisk, who never moved their hiding spot behind the boulder. They flinched as freezing beams and columns of blazing fire sailed past them, strikes of thunder kicking up dust and scorching the earth beside them.

Gallade had trained in aspects of multiple target battles before, but never had he experienced something of this scale. It threatened to break his will and nerve, but he defied his fear in an attempt to save both of their lives. Tuning the sounds of conflict out, he honed his vision on the two captains', plotting an idea in his head.

Weavile slashed the chest of an Espeon that got too close, delivering a swift kick that sent it to the ground and snapping her head towards Bisharp. "How many of 'em?!" she yelled.

Bisharp utilized his Iron Head and smashed his metallic cranium into an Umbreon as it crumpled to the ground. "Too many! Outnumbered!"

Immediately after his warning, another flash of Entercard arrivals appeared from their right as more soldiers of the Rose Clan poured out of the orange light. Weavile clenched her teeth at the sight, throwing her gaze to the duo of Rhyperior and Electivire that were just finishing up stomping a Loudred into the ground.

"Rhyperior! Electivire!" Weavile exclaimed, jabbing a claw at the new arrivals.

The two caught on quickly and sized up the group of Pokemon that charged towards them. They briefly exchanged looks and nod of solidarity before engaging.

Rhyperior started off by slamming his rock column-like arms into the ground, shaking the ground as large spikes of pointy rock jutted from the ground and raced towards the ensuing group. It barreled into those too slow to react, which triggered Electivire's response to run alongside the spikes.

Galloping on all fours, his eyes formed a gleam in them, his twin tails sparking electricity. Once fully energized, coils of hot blue plasma spiraled out from his tails and snaked their way through and in between the skewers of rock. The heat seeking plasma struck the chests of Pokemon unfortunate enough to stand in its path, shocking them still and allowing a speedy Electivire to pummel with a well timed Thunder Punch.

Finally, Rhyperior called back his spikes and held his right arm out straight. A pebble grew from nothing and hovered in front of his arm's cannon, slowly developing into a rock, and then a massive boulder over time. Squinting his eyes, he aimed his Rock Wrecker perfectly and fired without hesitation. The reinforcements that remained were now completely blown away by a shattering boulder.

The dynamic duo's reward for their victory was a sequence of two gunfire shots that uselessly collided into Rhyperior's natural armor and narrowly missed Electivire's head. Weavile turned around, attempting to locate the source of the shots again. A glint of the sun reflecting on the metal of the rifles caught her attention, pinpointing it to the cliffs of sandstone overlooking the keep. Weavile formed a murderous glower and bumped the shoulder of Bisharp next to her, bringing his awareness to the attacker behind them.

They knew what to do.

Weavile dropped her saddlebag and sprinted towards the cliff, Bisharp in hot pursuit behind her. More bursts of fire from atop the cliff same as the two captains hopped on rocks and scaled the cliff at a rapid pace. Once they were atop the bluff of red stone, Weavile flicked her ferocious glare to the two Combuskens' firing down on her Pokemon, who noticed their presence and pulled the bolt back on their rifles, training them on the intruders.

They weren't aiming for the head, only the limbs, they noted.

This didn't stop either of the captains' as they lurched forward at alarming rates with their claws and gauntlets splayed out. The Combuskens' kneeled and took their shot, one bullet bouncing off Bisharp's leg and denting its metal, while the other merely took off the fur of Weavile's right arm, only seeming to increase her anger.

Weavile lunged forward, black cape flapping behind her as she savagely sliced the throat of the Combusken in her warpath, Bisharp following suit with the same execution on the other doppelganger. They gurgled out choked cries as blood filled their lungs and fell twitching.

Back down to the anarchic battle on the ground, Gallade was keenly watching the saddlebag Weavile had left behind, formulating an idea. The Razor Claw's were losing bad, caught off guard and facing reinforcements arriving by Entercards, with even Rhyperior and Electivire struggling to fight back now. Gallade knew they wouldn't come out of this alive if they were to lose, so he had to bet everything on his trump card.

And he did just that.

Scrambling out from behind the cover of the boulder, Gallade stayed low to the ground as he went over and picked up the black saddlebag. He hastily opened it and searched its contents, finding both his Mega Bracelet and the Entercard that would send them home. He hesitated for a moment, but ultimately grabbed the bracelet and connected it to his arm, pointing it to the sky.

Nearly all of the fighters stopped to look at the bubble of pure energy forming around Gallade. It crackled, flashing an odd symbol before fully encasing the Psychic-type. A few seconds later, the shield burst open and revealed the Mega Evolved form of Gallade. His head crest was larger, arm blades sharper, and had a white cape flowing from his back, expression resilient and determined.

Gallade wasted no time in leaping into action, for this form lasted only mere minutes. He dashed towards any Rose Clan soldier he saw, sending supercharged Psycho Cuts from his arm and dropping them instantly before they could fight back. He didn't know if he was simply knocking them out or worse, but pushed past this disturbing question and continued his ravenous assault. He was a soldier, a protector of the Allfather, and he did what the situation demanded of him, no matter what.

The tide of the battle turned shortly after Gallade's endeavor, as now only a sparse few Rose Clan remained standing. And when they were finally brought down to the ground and snuffed out, aside from numerous groans and murmurs, the keep was deathly quiet. The sand was stained with blood and black battle scars, breastplates littering the area as spots of risen fire crackled intensely.

Weavile and Bisharp slid down the cliff to survey the fallout. The Rose Clan was defeated, but her clan had taken immense losses, judging by how many bodies of her comrades were lying still in the sands. Her blood boiled at the state, but her greater attention was grabbed by something else; she and Bisharp ran forward to investigate.

A white light wrapped around Gallade as he sprinted over to Heiolisk, vanishing moments later and revealing his transformation back to normalcy. He bent down and extended arm to the trembling Electric-type, who looked up at him and slowly clamped his claws on him. Once they were reacquainted, they turned around to see the two captains' and what remained of their mercenary force staring at them menacingly, waiting for either of them to attack.

"Look!" Gallade yelled, stepping forward. "You can trust us! Yes, I took the bracelet, but by doing that, I saved all of us from certain death!"

Anger clouded Weavile's judgment as she sneered at him. "And what happens if we turn our backs next? You're gonna pull that same stunt then!"

"If we wanted to, we could have left with the Entercards!" Gallade yelled, earning him a quizzical stare from Heliolisk. "But we stayed to fight and help!"

A lie - they would never have a chance to escape, but he had to play his cards right.

"Weav's, maybe he's right, if just a little," Bisharp offered, sighing and looking back to observe the multitude of bodies. "Things would be a lot different if he didn't help..."

Weavile didn't respond, thoughts and feelings festering in her mind of a certain Grass-type. But these were cut short when the sounds of muffled gasps and a struggle behind them were heard.

"Captains!"

Rhyperior and Electivire were seen dragging along a bruised and battered Krokorok that seemed to haven given up his attempts of escaping. He was brought forward to the two captains' and made to kneel, looking down and cowering from their intrigued gaze.

"This one here says he's the one in charge of this ambush," Electivire explained, shoving the Ground-type. "Ain't that right you piece of shit?"

"Y-yes!" the Krokorok cried. "I can tell you what you want, just leave me alive!"

Weavile kneeled before him, leaning forward. "Start talking," she commanded, dancing her claws along his throat. "Prove your worth to me."

"P-princess Serperior, she told us to do this, that you two and that Gallade and Heliolisk were supposed to be captured!" he sputtered out, wincing at the feel of her cold and blood stained claws.

"Us captured?" Bisharp questioned. "And those two… Why does she want us captured?"

"To take you out of the picture, so you wouldn't find out about Regi Castle and disturb us. And… she wanted those two back there most, because our Alignment source didn't know things that they might know about the castle."

Weavile exchanged looks with Bisharp before slowly removing her claws and standing up. "This 'source'... are they located in the region?"

"Y-yes! He's in a village just near Regi Castle," Krokorok answered, looking them both in the eyes pleadingly. "I can tell you a whole hell of a lot more! You just have to promise my survival!"

"... Take him away, and keep him safe and out of sight," Weavile said before throwing Rhyperior a glance. "Rhyperior, you find out this town he's talking about and make a trip there tomorrow. You get your answers from the Pokemon there about this source with or without force."

"On it, ma'am."

As they left with their new prisoner, Gallade spoke up again, overhearing the past conversation.

"We're here because of the Rose Clan!" he admitted. "We came here to stop them from supplying the bandits and trying to get into Regi Castle."

From the look Heliolisk was sending him, he seemed insane to tell them their mission details. And while it pained him, it was useful to build trust.

"We both have a common enemy. We both want to stop their advances. Let us work together to stop the Rose Clan, and we will help you any way we can," Gallade said.

Bisharp seemed convinced enough to allow them association, eager to hear of knowledge they could further obtain from the pair. However, Weavile struggled to see these two as being equal to them as partners. But since her partner seemed to already have an answer to their suggestion, she had no choice but to fold and hope things panned out smoothly.

"You talk to us about this Regi Castle, then we can work together," Weavile said, turning her back on them.

Pokemon of the Rose Clan still alive and writhing on the ground were subsequently extinguished by shots of their own rifles as her few comrades left surveyed the aftermath.

"That snake wants a war? We'll give her a fuckin' war she'll never forget."

Expanding into existence, an Entercard laid flat on the sands and produced a pillar of golden light, a shadow lurking in the golden fluorescence. Gloria carefully tiptoed her way out, a woozy feeling in her stomach still lingering even after all her rides with the Entercards.

"Hurry up!" a male voice called.

"I'm coming!" she squeaked back. "Just a little, um, dizzy!"

Her response didn't seem acceptable as a Riolu emerged beyond a sandy hill in front of her, wearing a big smile and a banjo that was strapped to his back. He ran over and grabbed her paw, running back to where he came from with her unwillingly in tow.

"Just this way!" Liam assured.

"O-okay!"

Traversing the land together, the last hill they went past hid a surprising secret. A small lake stood defiantly among the dry and hot sands. Lush greenery and tall, swaying palm trees grew alongside its gravely edges. Yet, the most beautiful thing one could witness were the multiple waterfalls spouting from the cliffs bordering the lake. A rainbow appeared through the crashing water and gentle mist. In such a hostile environment, it felt serene and peaceful.

"Amazing, right?" Liam said, soaking it all in with a happy sigh. "Found this place after I used one of those Entercard symbols."

"Wow… It's beautiful," she murmured, eyes dazzling.

Liam strolled down the sandy dune and stood by the lake's shore. Bending down, he grabbed a flat stone and positioned himself accordingly. He then snapped his paw back and sent the stone skidding across the calm water - three skips. He went at it over and over again, attempting to beat his previous score each new attempt.

"You should try this! It's fun!" he recommended, flashing her a joyous smile.

Gloria stared at him blankly, looking down at her four paws, then back at him.

"Oh… right, heh."

He went back to skipping rocks, Gloria content with simply watching him enjoy himself. However, he stopped not long after starting, standing still as he gazed out towards the lake and its small yet compelling waterfalls.

"I get it now."

"... Um, get what?" she asked, tilting her head.

"The whole thing yesterday if you don't mind me talking," he said, reaching down to find another stone. "I know now why you'd, uh, always worry about my reckless antics, or tell me to not take jobs alone. And I get it, because even if we've only known these guys for a year, they're like family to us now, and we want the best for them."

Gloria seized up, her inhibitions about this topic reappearing. What she did yesterday was an expulsion of emotions she didn't want to release, nor want anyone to see her do. It made her look pathetic, weak and invulnerable, as if she was too reliant on others to be there for her. It wasn't a moment fit for a hero, and she knew it. She said little to Liam or anyone afterward to ease that discomfort she felt about herself, but somehow it only made her feel worse. Now he was willing to talk about it, and she had the opportunity to open up.

Liam tossed another rock, watching its trajectory. "You saying that stuff about everyone close leaving you… Well, I can relate to that, y'know. Never knowing my folks and all, it hurts."

But he did know them; he knew who they were, what possibly happened to them, and it made the feeling so much worse.

Gloria fiddled with her necklace's Never-Melt-Ice. "I just… I hate how much I care. How small and helpless I feel sometimes. I only got this far because of Roark, you, and so many others that it feels like I am completely reliant on you all." She let loose a deep sigh. "I just want everyone to be safe. But with everything that's happening now, I know that's not what's going to happen."

She seemed stuck in a way, wanting those around her to be close and not leave, while she pursues her own dreams of heroism. These two principles conflicted, only highlighting her own insecurities.

"Family is everything, the Guildmaster told me," Liam shared, crossing his arms. "When I woke up that day, I didn't know anything in this world to care about but the large expanse of the world to explore; that's all I cared about, or wanted to at least," he mumbled, before raising his arms into the air. "I don't know why, but I feel so invigorated now, like we need to take action."

"Um, what do you mean?"

"I think it's time for us to stop talking about what we want and start doing what we want." He looked at her, smirking. "You saved me, Gloria. And I wanna see you be that hero you always talk about."

The Vulpix smiled proudly at him, face determined. "I'll show you."

"Good."

Gloria trotted towards the lake's shore, watching as Liam picked up another flat stone. "Liam… would you ever tell me if you got back your past memory?"

Liam lost his smile, swiveling his gaze to Gloria's, silent for just a moment. "... Of course."

She nodded, deeply inhaling and exhaling. "Sorry, I'm just worried, I guess. I don't know how I would feel if you regained your memory and wanted to do something else in your life, or return to any family you might have. I... I like what we have now."

Liam didn't respond, remaining still as he contemplated his actions, squeezing the stone in grip. He then took his usual throwing stance, but something caught his eye. Small pots and other containers were sitting near the lake's edge just a few yards away. He deduced instantly that these were property of nearby natives, most likely used to gather water that was so scarce now in the region.

He threw the stone and watched as it glided across nothing and dropped into the water with a splash. He couldn't figure out why, but seeing a scenic location like this being defiled by flaws of a system irked him in such a manner. Everything here to him now had a different tint to it, a tint of ugliness.

Liam glanced over, observing Gloria's icy blue necklace. "Will you ever tell me about that necklace?"

"... Someday. I don't think I'm ready for that."

"Then I guess there's things I'm also not ready to say."

The pair went silent.

Liam sat down onto the gravel and pulled on his banjo's straps. He held the instrument in his hand, admiring the white flower engraved into its beaten up wood frame. Without so much a word, he began to strum the strings and play a song the Guildmaster taught him. Gloria smiled and sat down next to him.

The two of them enjoyed this strange and alien melody together, happy to share this moment of rest after reconciliation together again.

These aspects of beauty tainted by the consequences of our reality. It makes you wish for a better alternative, a better tomorrow.

Want to discuss anything related to The Phantasmagoria with the author himself? If so, send a friend request to my Discord linked below!

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Next Time: Heroes And Nobodies