Pokémon: Rise Of The Rockets

Metal Gear Minun · April 12, 2016

IC: Jamie

Jamie was stunned. Her brain had to restart at watching Evan take the Aqua Jet like a true hero. So much so that Bedevere finishing off the Pelipper with Rock Blast and subsequent glowing and transformation went totally unnoticed.

"That was so... hero..." Jamie muttered in awe at Evan's display sheer will.

The fledgling hero now knew why Palkia had chosen such a champion and why she had been sent to study under him. A hero must never give in, that much she knew, but the determination needed to do that was something she hadn't truly seen before.

"Grummore, help Evan," she called as she came to her wits.

Grummore turned away from the Tentacruel to send a Heal Pulse towards Evan. It wouldn't heal his major injuries, but it'd help keep him from keeling over in the next few minutes. He could afford to let Lamorak deal with the Tentacruel alone for a moment.

It was due to be knocked out in five seconds anyway.

With Evan helped as much as she could at the moment, she turned her attention back to the fight. The Azumarill now had the full extent of Jamie's righteous fury directed towards it. It had been declared: Completely Un-Hero. In fact, she'd go as far to call it villainous.

And villains deserved punishment.

"Bedevere," she called out. "Punish!"

The newly evolved Cloyster had been adjusting himself to his new form before Jamie had called out. He had learned a new move with the evolution. When he realized what the power was, the Cloyster grinned. A grin that only widened when Jamie gave him free rein to fight. This was going to be fun. Using an Icicle Spear, Bedevere flipped himself over and, at the peak moment, unleashed his newly learned Hydro Pump and propelled himself into the air. At the peak of his flight, he unleashed a second Hydro Pump to propel himself as a projectile at the Azumarill, like some sort of weird reverse-cannon thing.

To say that the Water Rabbit didn't expect a 300 pound Cloyster to come flying at it at speeds no Bivalve Pokemon has any right to move was already pushing the boundary of an understatement (and that'd be if it were calm instead of raging and trying to kill people). To say nothing of the Azumarill's surprise at seeing Bedevere dodge the Superpower that it tried to counterattack with.

Bedevere grinned mischievously even further as he created a mini-Whirlpool to keep Azumarill trapped for his next attack. Bedevere lined himself up and then let loose a veritable stream of rocks at the Azumarill, which after first striking the Azumarill, were swept up by the mini-current around the Azumarill and slammed back into the Water Rabbit, several times for each rock.

Needless to say, Jamie was very proud of how far of how her adorable little Shellder (or Cloyster as he was now) had gone in the last couple of weeks.

Her mood fell however when she saw a familiar face. A not welcome face. A far more villainous one than the Azumarill was.

"You! You are the one who took Skye away!" Jamie called and sent out Lucan (who promptly hid behind Jamie upon seeing... everything really), preemptively preparing for a fight against the Fourth Child.

"Bring her back to us right now!" she called, unaware that line never works.

OOC:

Future Sight -> Tentacruel KO

Heal Pulse -> Evan

Bedevere -> Hydro Pump -> nothing

Azumraill -> Superpower -> Miss

Bedevere -> Whirlpool, Rock Blast -> Azumarill

Bedevere forgot Withdraw and learned Hydro Pump

Species: Cloyster

Nickname: Bedevere

Trainer: Jamie Arthur

Appearance: Bedevere is a lighter shade of blue than other Cloyster

Personality: Bedevere is a Naughty Pokémon who loves to fight, loves to mess around, and loves to listen or partake in anything involving black magic.

Ability: Skill Link

Specialty: Bedevere prefers to take to the offense and hit hard but is fond of field manipulation at times.

Known Moves: Shell Smash, Icicle Spear, Razor Shell, Hydro Pump, Whirlpool, Rock Blast

Edited April 22, 2016 by Minun of the Fourth Choir

Konuju · April 13, 2016

IC: Ryan/Paul

Bisharp stood in place, steeling himself with Iron Defense as he fought the effects of confusion. He didn't want to lash out, for the boat had grown even more chaotic, and he was just as likely to hit a friend as he was an enemy. But as hordes of Pokémon sailed, flopped, and skirted around the deck, Bisharp had no choice but to attack his assailants, and hope that they really were his assailants.

His first few hits were lucky; a Starmie and Sealeo were both battered back by his alternating Metal Claws and Night Slashes. His next attack struck Laurel, throwing the surprised Bellossom off balance. Coco would have been the next victim of the confused Bisharp had Terry not leapt in the way, taking the hit for the bunny. Terry bared his fangs and barked for Bisharp to stand down. At the familiar tones of Terry, Bisharp hesitated, his mouth set in a grimace as he tried to distinguish friend from foe.

A Milotic slithered up to the motionless Bisharp, seeing him as easy prey. Terry sank his teeth into the serpent's scaly hide, Crunching down as hard as he could. The Milotic whirled around and cried out in a Disarming Voice. The attack was enough to make Terry let go, and before the Herdier could recover, the Milotic had turned back to her chosen victim. She locked eyes with Bisharp, holding him in her Attractive gaze.

If there was one good thing about Bisharp's sudden infatuation, it was that it kept him from recklessly attacking everything in sight. On the other hand, it left him a sitting Duckling for the Milotic's Water Pulse.

Aria's psychic abilities helped ensure Togie hit his mark. The Mantine and Remoraid crashed back into the water, although Togie was unable to shake the ice coating his wing. He quickly aimed his descent toward the boat. He had almost landed when Orihime's cry reached his ears. The female Togekiss had spotted the Gyarados about to devour Ray.

An instant later, the entire boat shook as a much larger creature pulled Ray's would-be killer underwater. The violent motion of the vessel turned Togie's landing into a crash, and he lay sprawled out on the deck, stunned for a moment.

Ryan fell hard against the deck as the creature shook the boat. His eyes fell upon the golden-haired man, and a chill ran down his spine. "Of all the times..."

Shock turned to fury as the Liberty agent pushed himself up and ran towards Ray as fast as his legs could carry him. "Oh, no you don't!" he cried. "You're not taking Ray away! Not this time!"

Ampere turned at her trainer's cry, and ran to his assistance with a furious bleating. She had been unable to do anything as this golden-haired man took Sonja away in Fortree. The Mareep was not about to let it happen again. As she ran, her wool brimmed with electricity. Several feet from her target, the glowing Ampere suddenly reared up on her hind legs and unleashed a powerful Thunderbolt at the Xatu. As the energy faded, Ampere found she was a Mareep no more; she had become a mighty Flaafy.

Paul had started to rush toward his Bisharp when the tremor struck, shaking the boat with enough force to knock the blacksmith off balance. When he got to his feet, he heard Ryan shout. His eyes locked on McKinley and in that instant his Bisharp's plight was forgotten.

"MCKINLEY!" Paul roared. His hands clenched into fists as he charged at the Ford Agent, intending to take him down by any means necessary. "GIVE ME BACK MY DAUGHTER, YOU SON OF A *****!"

OOC:

Ampere's profile coming later; Thunderbolt pre-approved by Parugi.

MELON LORD · April 13, 2016

IC: Xander Cruize

The Kalos trainer flinched as a Gyarados lunged on board and tried to eat Ray, ten feet from him. He was surprised when, instead of a bloody mess where the redhead had once stood, a barrier formed instead. His vision turned red when he saw who the savior was. "McKinley!" He yelled at the same time as Paul. He got to his feet, ignoring the protests of his chest. Sylph turned at his cry and snarled.

She teleported, standing in front of Xander. Get down, Xander! The Gardevoir didn't wait for a response or an order from her trainer. The blonde man seemed occupied, focused on Ray. Time to bring him down. She saw Paul coming and nodded to the blacksmith, moving so McKinley was between them as she powered up a Moon Blast. They couldn't kill him, though. They had to get information on where he'd taken Ellen.

JiMing · April 13, 2016

IC: Dahlia/Aspen Seaton

Coco yelped when she was pushed out of the way by Terry, having not even noticed the dazed and lost Bisharp wreaking havoc against his allies. She watched as a Milotic tossed the Herdier aside and suddenly took control over the Sword Blade Pokemon and tossed him aside. The Buneary leaped forward with an Agility to close the gap near instantly and uppercutted her opponent upwards with a fist crackling with electricity. The serpentine foe came down, and she was ready for that as well, launching forward with a Jump Kick and watching the Milotic sail away.

Dracos was luckily nearby and very helpfully smacked the Milotic whirling in the air with a Dragon Tail. He watched as the also-serpentine opponent sailed off the deck into the water along with many other Pokemon. After a moment of deliberation, Dracos concluded electric attacks were safe given Xander was now out of the water, and so launched a Thunderbolt down into the water where the Milotic had fell down into, the electricity obviously spreading throughout the area around them.

Laurel cried out in pain from the surprise attack by Paul's Bisharp, leaving her vulnerable in that crucial moment. The Gastrodon she was locked in combat with took advantage of this situation and lobbed a Mud Bomb at the Bellossom, knocking her away. She got up to see that her opponent was readying another Body Slam, and so gathered a storm of leaves around her the closer the sea slug got, launching a Leaf Storm at point blank range and instantly fainting her opponent right then and there.

Torrent flopped on his back, having been delivered a beating by the larger Floatzel. The latter Pokemon prepared to finish him off with a Crunch, but was unexpectedly slammed into the side by Flare in a Wild Charge. This stunned the Sea Weasel Pokemon long enough for Torrent to hop back to his feet and ram into his opponent once again with an Aqua Jet.

Meadow was getting quite sick of people boarding the vessel and scattered Toxic Spikes on the front to give an unwelcome entrance to more feral Pokemon. She saw Togie crash onto the deck however, and rushed over to help up the Togekiss.

Dahlia's eyes widened as she saw Evan get injured badly, and wondered how he could still stand afterwards. Soon her worry worsened when she saw the Gyarados rush towards Ray, and quite audibly gasped. "Look out!" she cried, even though it was much too late for the Separtist to react. Something seemed to protect him however, and the assailant was dragged down into the depths with a sickening crunch, leaving the gardener pale. Then a mysterious man appeared on the deck to help Ray up, leaving her confused. "H-huh?! Who... Who are you, what is happening?!" she cried, totally lost on everything.

Asriel growled at the Politoed who boarded the ship, launching a Psycho Cut at a nearby group of them. The Absol was forced back however, when several of them used Hyper Voice, and he attempted to find a way around them. Nutmeg quickly came to his assistance, launching a Razor Leaf at the side of the frogs, distracting them for a crucial moment. Asriel reared back and jumped forward, slashing the group with a Night Slash, pushing the Politoed back far away enough for the Absol to suddenly register McKinley's presence. His fur went on end, with the Absol clearly able to tell this new arrival had less than pure intentions. Something told him the Xatu was going to be a problem, however, simply rushing forward would be an unwise choice. Rather, he had a quick glint in his eyes and prepared a Future Sight behind the psychic, hoping it would provide an opportune moment for those on the boat.

Aspen struggled to keep Saya in his arms, but still he was baffled by the recent turn of events. Ryan, Paul, and Xander all seemed to react strongly to the mysterious figure with the Xatu, confusing him for a moment. "McKinley...?" the youngest Seaton muttered confusedly, wondering what was happening.

Edited April 13, 2016 by JiMing: Joining Sectors

**Dr. Hidaka** · April 13, 2016

IC: Evan Tierra

Evan felt the Heal Pulse mending what minor injuries had been inflicted upon him, the pain diminishing slightly. The Hero witnessed what happened to the Gyarados that attempted to attack Ray and shuddered in horror. Monstro had managed to get back on deck, shivering at what he may have seen. But not long after, the ship shook violently, weakening Evan's already fragile footing. He fell to one knee, and felt like he wouldn't stand up again for this fight.

Then he saw a real good reason to stand up. Oh, did he see one very good reason to get back up.

Tyler McKinley.

Evan's face turned from an expression of pain, to what appeared to be utter loathing. "You dare show up here?" Evan Tierra growled, panting in between words. "What do you want now, McKinley? What could you take from us now?"

**Blessed Blade** · April 13, 2016

-==IC: S.S. Coral==-

The sudden chaos seemed to have died down for the moment. The trainers had gotten a brief moment to themselves, before the boat had shaken, knocking them to their feet and flinging a bunch of the renegade Pokemon off. Ryan and Jenny fell over for a moment as they lost their footing; however, Gyaralite and the Tyranitar had managed to break their fall. When Ryan noticed who was standing in front of Ray, however... he got rather angry. "You." The black haired trainer glared at McKinley with narrowed eyes, as Jenny grabbed his arm to keep him from doing anything rash. Ryan recognized McKinley from the ill-fated fight at Havoc. The mention of Skye simply served to fuel that anger more. However, Jenny refused to budge. Frustrated, the Rocket simply resolved to staring the Ford Agent down angrily, especially with the other, more worthy people, already seeming to be trying to get their fair share of him.

Meanwhile, however, Gnip had had enough. The land shark burst out of her Pokeball, and quickly ran toward the edge of the boat. With a mighty leap, the Garchomp launched herself into the water, and promptly stuck her head under it, and roared. Loudly. Terrified at the sudden appearance and noise of the Pokemon, the sea Pokemon began to flee, already scared out of their wits by whatever that... thing that had dragged down the Gyarados was. Gnip was having no part of that. She gave chase to some of the Pokemon in question, and began slicing out in anger with Dragon Claw, and otherwise attempting to get revenge on the Pokemon for what they had done to her master.

Ray was thankful for being alive. He was not, however, absolutely thankful for who saved him. As Tyler McKinley extended his hand, as if to help him up, the separatist grit his teeth and stood up himself. He was silent for a moment, and then attempted to rapidly slam his fist into the Ford agent's face.

"Did I miss you? Kinda, so I could do that." He knew that it was more a matter of time for things, but his frustration with McKinley had grown rather large here. "That, was for what happened in Fortree." Ray's orange eyes glinted in the light, as he stared at the Ford agent, feeling that McKinley had not kept his end of the bargain.

Parugi · April 13, 2016

OOC: Taking some liberties with the order of events, given the clustercuss of things happening right now. Let me know if you take issue with this.

-Ray - punch McKinley

-Ryan - running to/covering Ray, Thunderbolt at Xatu

-Jamie - something

-Xander - yell

-Paul - charging forward at McKinley

-Sylph - charging Moon Blast

IC - Tyler McKinley - S.S. Coral:

Ray's punch connected, forcing McKinley's head to the side and his body to turn with it. For a moment, he appeared stunned--he remained doubled-over, one hand over his mouth, the other resting on his knee. Xatu remained unresponsive, appearing instead to be more interested in the ongoing battles behind its trainer.

"Did I miss you? Kinda, so I could do that," Ray said. "That, was for what happened in Fortree."

"Oh, no you don't!" another voice called, almost drowned out by the thundering footsteps that accompanied it. They skidded to a stop between McKinley and Ray. "You're not taking Ray away! Not this time!"

McKinley finally turned his head back, recognizing the speaker. Blood trickled from his lip, though this did nothing to erase the smile from his face. If anything, the sight of Ryan Sanders standing in front of him, arms stretched out to either side, only served to compound his amusement. McKinley smiled, flicking the tip of his tongue across his bleeding lip. "You people've spiced things up since I last saw--"

"You! You are the one who took Skye away!" a woman yelled. McKinley sighed, rolling his eyes at Ryan and Ray before turning to look at her. "Bring her back to us right now!"

He tilted his head condescendingly. "You realize that never--"

A flash and buzz of electricity cut him off this time, as a certain newly-evolved Flaafy fired a certain newly-acquired Thunderbolt at Xatu. The Mystic Pokémon managed to deflect this with the quick application of Psychic; however, the blinding light proved enough of a distraction that the follow-up Ice Beams from Lucan broke through its defenses. While McKinley managed to step out of the way of the attack, Xatu was knocked back, one wing partially frozen. It pushed itself up, continuing to stare unflinchingly at the other half of the boat.

"Sheesh, you're not playing, are you?" McKinley said. "Tell you what--"

"MCKINLEY!"

Several voices screamed it. The Fourth Child frowned, a flash of annoyance crossing his face. It seemed, at that moment, that the rest of the boat realized what was going on, presumably as a result of Jamie and Ryan's outburst. And thus, the chaos resumed, this time with McKinley at the epicenter. At the moment, it primarily took the form of a man--a rather large, muscled, angry man, whom McKinley quickly recognized as one Paul Burks--charging straight toward him. Nearby, a Gardevoir blinked out of existence; in his scan of the field, McKinley found her on the other side of him, forming a bracket with Burks with himself in the middle.

He did not like that. Not one bit.

There were others, as well, but given that none were currently threatening him as actively as Burks and the Psychic-Type, he wasn't worried about them.

"GIVE ME BACK MY DAUGHTER," the veritable beast of a man screamed--which, by itself would have been fine, had it not been immediately followed by, "YOU SON OF A *****!"

He raised his hands. "Whoa, whoa, whoa!" McKinley called. It did not happen often, but the Fourth Child was beginning to think that--just possibly--theatrics may not have been the best way of doing things this time, given the sheer number of angry patrons currently occupying the boat with him. He would have to keep that in mind in the future.

He smiled--a genuinely charming smile that might have disarmed less-aggro'd opponents--and turned slowly in a circle, eyeing his surrounding frenemies. McKinley glanced at Ray. "Yo, Seventh," he said. "Wanna call your friends off before I have to get my hands any dirtier here?"

Edited April 13, 2016 by Parugi

**Blessed Blade** · April 14, 2016

-==IC: Ray==-

Ray was caught off guard by what had happened after his punch. However, when McKinley asked what he did, he felt unnerved suddenly. Something just didn't seem right, about this. It was obvious that McKinley might have planned things out wrong... however good it was that someone was able to save him. But at that same time...

"What do you mean, get your hands dirtier...?" Ray asked, as he seemed cautious. He knew the others wouldn't likely appreciate being told to stand down, but at the same time, he suddenly had a feeling that things might go bad, if things were left unchecked.

Parugi · April 14, 2016

IC - Tyler McKinley - S.S. Coral:

"Let me put it this way . . ." McKinley took several slow steps back as Burks continued his approach. His hands, though still in the air, had now moved into something closer to a combat stance than one of surrender. "Do you want me to have to hurt or kill any of your friends in addition to persuading others to come with me?" He tilted his head, licking his lip again. "Gotta admit, I haven't had a chance to get the blood pumping in this ol' meat-suit in a while, so really, I'm fine with either option."

**Blessed Blade** · April 14, 2016

-==IC: Ray/Others==-

The phrasing of the different things that Tyler was saying made Ray's blood run cold. He lowered his head for a moment, his hair obscuring his eyes, as he thought it over. However, it was merely the illusion of thinking it over. Although the others would gladly give their lives to keep him around, and to get a chance to take McKinley down in the process... Ray did not feel that it was worth it. He grit his teeth, as he got a sinking feeling that McKinley wasn't exactly bluffing at that moment. The mention of persuading others didn't bode well for him, either.

"I can't allow that to happen." Ray said slowly, as he looked up with a conflicted look on his face. As he spoke, however, he also raised his hands, sensing that McKinley almost seemed to have something up his sleeve. "Everyone, stand down. We all know what he wants, and I don't want anyone's blood on my hands because of this." He gave McKinley a look, as well. "I know you all want a piece of him, but I can't risk this going wrong. We have a goal, remember?" He did not look to the others, but left that in the air, trusting they would understand what he meant.

Ryan grit his teeth, as he watched helplessly. On one hand, there was Jenny holding him back from acting. On another, the Pokemon were being distracted by the attackers, who were attempting to launch a second wind assault while escaping Gnip's outraged assault. On a third, even Ray was telling them to stand down. The black haired trainer scowled, not liking the fact that he was being forced to just watch while things were going wrong. However, Ryan frowned, as he heard parts of the conversation between the Ford agent and Ray. He felt unnerved that McKinley still seemed confident that things would go his way, even with the odds against him...

Although Jenny was busy holding Ryan back, her eyes glimmered with a wish that she could join this and turn it into a battle. She wished to get involved, and actually turn the situation to their favour. But she hesitated. She recalled the fight against Hayes, and how it had taken three people to even have a chance at defeating her... and how it had even still ended up against them. That, and the blonde's confidence at being sure he could take them all on and win made her second guess whether they actually stood a chance if they fought.

Konuju · April 14, 2016

IC: Ryan/Paul

Having planted himself between Ray and McKinley, Ryan heard every word exchanged between the Ford Agent and the one he called Seventh. Ryan's outstretched hands were shaking in a strange mixture of anger and terror. His mind raced. If they tried to fight, then maybe they could take out Ford's Fourth Child and prevent him from obtaining the Seventh. But that still left seven other Children out there somewhere, including Sonja and Ellen, whom they would be no closer to finding.

And that was a best-case-scenario. Ryan remembered all too well the battle against Hayes atop Coeur Tower, as well as their recent skirmish in Fortree. If the Fourth was anything like the Second...

Before Ryan could come to a decision, Ray spoke up, telling the others to stand down. The two friends locked eyes, and in that moment Ryan knew there was no changing the Separatist's mind.

"Ray..." A lump formed in his throat at the hopelessness of the situation. If they couldn't stop McKinley here, how were they supposed to get Ellen back?

"The only blood on anyone's hands will be McKinley's!" Despite Ray's command, Paul showed no signs of slowing his charge in the slightest. As he approached the Ford Agent, Paul's muscles flexed with a strength tempered from years in his forge. As smoothly as if he were pounding a hammer, Paul swung his arm upward, ready to punch the golden-haired man in his smug jaw.

IC: Terry

Terry, like Ellen, had once considered Tyler to be a friend. His concern for Chrono had seemed genuine; but now the Herdier knew that supposed act of kindness was nothing more than a carefully crafted ruse, a small part of a much grander -- and far more sinister -- plan. As Terry bared his fangs, a sharp growl rose in his throat. There was no worse evil than that which went in the mask of good. Tyler would pay dearly not only for taking Ellen away, but for deceiving her. Terry would make sure of that.

And so it was that the Herdier fell into step behind his master, his growl turning into a savage snarl. It was the first time Terry had ever turned his attacks on a human. But Tyler had struck a deep nerve; he had dared to tear the Burks family apart, a wound far more grievous than any physical injury. As Paul aimed a punch at the Ford Agent, Terry adjusted his course, looking for an opening to rush in and deliver a powerful Crunch.

OOC:

I'm suddenly having flashbacks to a certain someone knocking Hayes off a platform in Fortree. What is it with my characters trying to murder Ford Agents?

MELON LORD · April 14, 2016

IC: Xander

Stand down, Ray said, and it occurred to Xander that that might be pertinent. He was almost certain that he hadn't just imagined the giant thing that had dealt with the offending Gyarados. He spat a curse. "Sylph, stop them before--" he broke into a fit of coughing, but Sylph obeyed. She teleported, not between Paul and McKinley, but between McKinley and Terry. She wouldn't stop Paul from venting his anger, but she would try and stop the Herdier from attacking.

She hated to do it, hated to stop anyone from attacking the pile of droppings, but if he resummoned whatever monster was lurking underwater, they would all be in trouble. She gave Terry a glare that was half-apologetic, and raised her hand. You will have to go through me if you wish to attack. Her first plan had been to take down Tyler's Xatu, get rid of his transportation, but that didn't change anything with a giant monster answering his call. I do not wish to hurt you, but if you try this, I may have to.

Curse McKinley for bringing it to this, turning allies on each other. If she ever got the chance, she would use her abilities to rip him apart molecule by molecule.

Edited April 14, 2016 by Carbevoir

Parugi · April 14, 2016

IC - Tyler McKinley - S.S. Coral:

McKinley smiled. "Don't say I didn't warn you!"

With unnervingly-fast reflexes, McKinley crossed his arms just under his stomach, catching Paul at the forearm. His slight figure, it seemed, was a deception as far as his actual strength was concerned--the Ford Agent hardly shifted with the sudden stop of Paul's fist, eliciting instead an audible chuckle. The next moment, he had swung himself sideways, hooking a foot around the back of Paul's neck and using his weight to drag both to the ground, cushioning himself with his opponent. Not the least worn for wear by the maneuver, McKinley hopped back to his feet, offering a sarcastic bow to his 'audience.'

"Did you know," he said to Paul, dusting his hands off against his coat. "My reputation is enough to scare my boss's Darkrai along with my co-workers?" McKinley pulled a Poké Ball off of his belt, clicking the button in the center of it. "Now, that may not mean much, until you realize that said Darkrai happens to be the second most powerful Darkrai in existence." He paused, tilting his head. "Well, actually, make that most powerful, now that Sombra's dead. Spooky, huh?" He tossed the ball in the air. In a flash of light, a Sigilyph appeared, hovering right above McKinley's head. Like his Wobbufett and his Xatu, it appeared to be covered in dozens of stitch-like marks, though nonetheless looked to be more than ready for a fight.

Display aside--McKinley had to admit, he appreciated the One-arm-evoir's intervention, if only because it meant that he wouldn't also have to kick Ellen's dog. As far as he was concerned, however, the old man had made himself fair game--at least for a beating. Killing him would almost certainly prove problematic in maintaining Ellen's cooperation, after all.

Konuju · April 15, 2016

IC: Terry
The Herdier barked a warning at the one-armed Gardevoir. He did not want to hurt her anymore than she did him. Sylph refused to yield. Paul was on the ground now, doubled over in pain, and suddenly Terry had a new reason to make Tyler suffer. Steeling himself, Terry barreled past the Gardevoir. His target was not the Ford Agent, but his master. He refused to let his family be torn further apart. Come what may, Terry and Paul would face their fate together. The Herdier braced himself for the Psychic attack he knew would come from rebuking Sylph's commands. He only hoped he could reach Paul in time.

IC: Ryan/Paul
Before Paul even knew what was happening he was on the ground, smarting from McKinley's sudden attack. Ignoring the pain, he pushed himself to his feet and would have lunged at the Ford Agent again had a pair of hands not grabbed him from behind and held him fast.

"Don't be a fool, Mr. Burks," Ryan said as he struggled to keep his grip on the raging blacksmith. "This guy's much more powerful than he's letting on. If you insist on fighting him here, it can only end in disaster."

"This man stole my daughter right out of my arms!" Paul tried to twist himself free, but Ryan maintained a firm grasp. "You can't expect me to just stand back and let him claim another victim!"

Ryan's eyes stung with bitter tears. "I know. I hate this as much as you do. But the odds are stacked against us. We're already weary from battling those Water Pokémon, and an all-out attack would destroy the boat. McKinley has us pegged into a corner."

Paul did not give up his efforts to struggle free of Ryan's grip, but he seemed to grasp that if he tried to assault the Fourth Child again, he would just end up back on the hard deck. Unable to manifest his anger in the form of another punch, Paul took his emotions and formed them into a death glare -- albeit the glare somewhat lost its effect when one considered that its target had just knocked the blacksmith to the ground without so much as breaking a sweat. "If you so much as harm a hair on my Ellen's head..."

OOC:
Ampere's profile.

Species: Flaafy (female)
Nickname: Ampere
Trainer: Ryan Sanders
Appearance: The orb on her tail maintains its yellow coloration from when she was a Mareep. When she uses Cotton Guard, her wool extends to cover her entire body like it did in her prior evolution.
Personality: As a Mareep, Ampere had never been able to live up to the fighting abilities of her teammates. Now that she has evolved, she is much more capable in battle, and is eager to prove herself to the team. Despite this, she remains a calm and docile sheep at heart.
Ability: Static
Specialty: She has a strong special attack
Known Moves: ~~ThunderShock~~ Thunderbolt, ~~Take Down~~ Power Gem, ~~Discharge~~ Cotton Guard, Confuse Ray, Signal Beam, Iron Tail (egg move)
Number of Battles: 8 (Vlad, Myriam, Ray, Gluttony (x3), Water Pokémon (x2))

ThunderShock upgraded to Thunderbolt, Take Down replaced with Power Gem, Discharge replaced with Cotton Guard.

MELON LORD · April 15, 2016

IC: Sylph

She braced herself as Terry rushed forward, but at the last moment she saw what he planned and stepped aside. She turned to face McKinley and the others, glaring. We seem to be at an impasse. We cannot drive you off the ship without bringing our full force to bear, but be certain that we won't stand aside and just let you take Ray.

She knew that antagonizing the man was a bad idea. He had taken Paul down almost comically-easily, he had two pokémon ready to fight along with whatever was in the water, and, if he was to be believed, he had a reputation that scared a Darkrai. Still, they had him grossly outnumbered, and he wouldn't be able to defend against all of them at once.

IC: Xander

He wanted to call out and tell Sylph to come back, to get away from the blond man, but he felt she wouldn't listen. Instead, he took a few steps forward, ready to lunge and grab if that Xatu or Sigilyph showed even a hint of teleporting. "So what's the deal, McKinley? You need nine willing children. What happens if one of them stops being willing? Kidnap 'em anyways? Mind control them?" He coughed, feeling his ribs protesting against even standing upright. He'd have to get patched up soon, before he punctured a lung or something.

**Dr. Hidaka** · April 15, 2016

IC: Evan Tierra

"Everyone, please stop now." a pained voice pleaded.

Amidst what was going on, Evan had been focusing on processing everything going on, while still trying to remain conscious. The Hero had witnessed many a skirmish, and he knew when he was outmatched. This was one of those times. Even if he were in better shape, the outcome would be the same. "I fought the Leader of the Ancient Darkrai, and would have died if things didn't turn out different." Evan said, giving McKinley a look of what appeared to be fear. "If McKinley claims that he is feared by the second strongest, and we continue fighting? I can't see us walking away without heavy losses....."

Before anyone could reply, Evan then decided that he wasn't gonna just leave it at that. He was going to give McKinley a piece of his mind. Despite his pain, he had to show he wasn't giving up completely. "That doesn't mean you get off the hook, McKinley." Evan said, a look of pure anger now on the Hero's face. "You've taken two of my friends, and about to take a third. I am not going to fight you now. Next time we meet, and we WILL meet, I intend on making you pay for all you have done. Mark my words."

Edited April 15, 2016 by Hades

Metal Gear Minun · April 15, 2016

IC: Jamie Arthur - Still on a boat

Jamie was visibly frustrated. She had been emboldened by Lucan's successful Ice Beam on Xatu and it went against all parts of her being from the Rocket Agent to the idealistic kid to the newly fledged hero to simply let McKinley go. Behind her, her team waited anxiously. Three were waiting for whatever resolution would come while an overconfident Bedevere was waiting for talks to break down so he could get back to the action.

A large part of Jamie shared Bedevere's opinion, she was hoping that McKinley would try to attack so she could get back to punishing him. But without the others going all out, she had to admit she was worried about her prospects. She remembered how difficult an opponent the other Ford Agent's henchmen had been; how much more would McKinley be.

"Lucan, prepare to make an Ice Beam in case anything goes wrong," Jamie said quietly to the Vanilluxe.

The Ice-Type shivered as he obliged.

Parugi · April 15, 2016

IC - Tyler McKinley - S.S. Coral:

McKinley sighed, rubbing the back of his head. "You people still don't get it, do you?" he said. His gaze flicked to Xander and Slyph, Evan, and finally to Paul and Ryan. "The keyword in all of this is 'willing.' I didn't 'take' or 'steal' the Ninth or the Sixth, and I'm certainly not interested in hurting either of--Thunder Wave."

A splash sounded from the group's left as a Tentacruel suddenly fell back to the ocean in the middle of snaking its way up the side of the boat, stopped by a beam of electricity from Sigilyph. McKinley glanced out at the ocean, noting the relatively-small number of angry Water-Types still remaining, and gestured for the Avianoid Pokémon to keep an eye on them.

"Interruption aside . . ." McKinley tilted his head, eliciting a sharp pop from his neck. He grinned. "If your friends weren't up for helping me out, then they'd be back already and I'd be looking for a replacement--not that that would be of much help to any of you, given how this stuff works . . ." He rolled his eyes, appearing genuinely annoyed for a moment before returning to his typical expression of dark amusement. "Still, you gotta admit that all of this ambiguity makes things a lot more interesting, am I right? Maybe we're the monsters you all see us as, or maybe we're not." He chuckled. "Maybe some of us are, anyway. Or maybe we just find the roles too amusing not to play them."

He turned his head, looking over his shoulder at Ray. "Anyway--you ready or not, Seventh?"

JiMing · April 16, 2016

IC: Dahlia Seaton

Coco hopped over besides Terry and tried to get his attention and convince the Herdier to stand down. Meanwhile, many of the Seaton's Pokemon were at a loss for what to do once most of the Water Pokemon had fled. They stood in place and watched McKinley and his team warily, unsure of what to make of this new arrival.

Dahlia couldn't make out what was happening. All this time, Ray had willingly joined the opposing side, and everyone already knew? "...Y-you..." she muttered, staring in confusion at Ray. "So... You're gonna fight us. I... I see. Hmm." the middle Seaton said quietly, looking down. "Hmm..."

"He's betraying us? Why does everyone know about this already?!" Aspen said, just as lost as his sister. The youngest Seaton wondered just how out of the loop he was compared to the others, and how that would affect him moving forward. "...Alright then Ray. If this is really how things will go from now, don't think I won't defend myself if you go after me or the people that matter to me. Remember that then, will ya? For your own good." he warned Ray, staring warily at the orange-haired Separtist.

As the others were discussing among themselves what to do as McKinley grinned in cruel amusement, Asriel stood tall and looked towards the Deoza agent without a hint of fear. The expression the Absol wore was one of defiance, the wind blowing his pure white coat to the side. He stood in one place, waiting as his piercing crimson eyes watched over the situation.

Konuju · April 16, 2016

IC: Ryan/Paul

Terry cast a quick glance to Coco before resuming his glare at the Fourth Child. Although he was no longer actively trying to attack Tyler, he refused to leave his master's side.

"My daughter is not a monster," Paul said through gritted teeth. "You manipulated her into joining you; she may have gone with you willingly, but only because you wanted her to, and managed to convince her she was doing the right thing." The blacksmith clenched a fist, and for a moment it looked like he would have tried to strike at McKinley again had Ryan not been holding him back.

Ryan was silent. His thoughts drifted back to what Aria had told him the night before, of the potential for darkness inside of Ellen. Was this what the Lucario had meant? A sudden horror dawned on him as he realized the severity of McKinley's words. If Ellen really was willing, if she truly believed she was doing good, then even if they managed to find her, it would be another task altogether to convince her to leave Ford. She could be as stubborn as she was kind.

Then Dahlia brought up something Ryan had never even considered. They would have to fight the Children. Potentially all of them; Sonja, Ellen, and Ray included. He suddenly felt weak in the knees as a seasick-like nausea overcame him. Slowly he turned his eyes on Ray.

"I fought against you in Fortree," he said softly. "And I vowed I would never do so again. You have your reasons for going with McKinley, even if I can't understand them. Just promise me one thing. Promise me you'll keep Ellen safe. And Sonja, too. It doesn't matter if Ford's our enemy; you're still our friend. All of you are. Never forget that."

MELON LORD · April 17, 2016

IC: Xander Cruize

The Kalos trainer sucked on his lips as he thought over McKinley's words. "I guess we don't really have a choice but to believe you on that front, do we? If you say that they're still willing-- Except Ellen was passed out last time I saw her. Is she up and walking around now? And did you fill her in on all the details of your plan?" he asked.

"Ray, remember a few days ago, when we talked about trust? Think about what'll happen if you go with this guy here and now. All that trust you had from us, what'll it be worth?" It was a low blow, but Xander was ticked off enough to go for it. "Just a thought."

Sylph turned, slamming an approaching Krabby with a Psychic attack. Her face was carefully neutral, showing no hints of her irritation, but the attack hit just a little harder than necessary.

**Dr. Hidaka** · April 17, 2016

IC: Evan Tierra

"He's still got my trust." Evan spoke, trying to keep calm. "I may not like the situation at hand, but there's nothing we can really do about it." The Hero of Space really began to feel the weight of the situation. As much as he wanted to fight, he couldn't risk any further injury to himself or his friends. Like it or not, he had to let Ray go with McKinley. Evan turned towards the Separatist and gave him a weak smile.

"I'll take care of everyone while you are gone, ok?" Evan said weakly. "Like Ryan said, even if I have to fight you, you're still my pal, Ray Hakuda. Hopefully we can look back on this and laugh."

Edited April 17, 2016 by Hades

**Blessed Blade** · April 17, 2016

-==IC: Ray==-

Ray listened silently, as everyone talked. He didn't say anything when the people who did accused him of being a traitor. Even if he could actually say something, they wouldn't understand anyway; neither the circumstances, nor the reason. If they wanted to believe him evil, that was their own decision. The orange haired man nodded at Ryan and Evan.

"Alright." Ray nodded again, not seeming to trust his voice at the moment. He glanced over to Paul and the others, and closed his eyes. "Don't give up. I'm sorry." He looked over to McKinley. "I'm ready..."

Parugi · April 21, 2016

IC - Tyler McKinley - S.S. Coral:

Throughout the entire conversation, McKinley could barely contain his laughter. A gloved hand rose to his mouth, covering yet failing to hide the raspy snickering sounding from his mouth. Behind him, Xatu's frozen stare locked with Asriel's. Above, Sigilyph slowly flapped its wings, lowering itself to its trainer's level.

"Man, you people are dramatic," McKinley said. He poked Sigilyph with its Poké Ball, returning it in a flash of red. "Not gonna lie . . . it's pretty misplaced. But for now, I guess you'll just have to take my word for it." The Fourth walked backward with his hands held in a shrugging motion. As he approached Ray, he spun, placing his hands on the Rocket Agent's shoulders and leading him toward Xatu. The entire spectacle felt far too much like a death march, given the mood in the air.

"Look into my eeeyyyeees," McKinley cooed, dropping his voice an octave or two. He set Ray in front of Xatu, blocking the Mystic Pokémon's view of the enemy Absol. As their gazes connected, Xatu's power took hold, filling Ray's mind with images monstrous and incomprehensible--a vision, a warning of things to come, so terrifying that, in that moment, everything made sense.

Ray fell unconscious, drooping down into McKinley's arms.

"Sleepy time, sleepy time . . ." McKinley said quietly, glancing at Ryan. "Worry not--he'll be fine."

He smiled, chuckling at his own rhyme. A moment later, Xatu's eyes glowed, a field of yellow energy encompassing the three individuals. They began to teleport away.

The world seemed to slow.

The psychic field, usually so round and smooth, rippled as a wave of psychic energy slammed into it. Xatu squawked, the first true sign of life that it had given since its arrival. Tyler McKinley's eyes widened in shock, his smile faltering. A gush of blood sprayed from the left side of his face, and he raised a hand, covering it. He turned his head back to the main portion of the group, a manic expression on his face, before blinking out of sight.

McKinley, Xatu, and Ray were gone. But they had left behind a stitched wing and a bloody, golden eye.

Behind the group, the energy from Future Sight dissipated from Asriel's eyes.

Edited April 21, 2016 by Parugi

JiMing · April 21, 2016

IC: Aspen/Dahlia Seaton

Aspen watched on as Ray apologized to them and turned to the charming face known as McKinley. He couldn't understand why any of this was happening, the youngest Seaton growled in frustration, he knew it was pointless to stand up to the mysterious agent and Ray was still going to join the enemy. It was hopeless.

Dahlia winced when McKinley began laughing. The jeering shrieks caused the gardener's spirits to plummet, and the way he treated the situation as a game left her speechless. The middle Seaton looked down and cursed herself for not being able to do anything. If only her Reverse powers were more developed! And yet even if she could touch McKinley, the Xatu and Sigilyph would ensure she would pay the price. "...Bye Ray." Dahlia muttered under her breath solemnly, as he and McKinley began to warp away.

Then it struck.

The youngest Seaton nearly jumped in the air when he first heard that startled squawk from the Xatu. If it wasn't clear something was off from that, the Pokemon's wing and McKinley's eye gushed blood, the agent of Ford looking nearly about to let out a bloodcurdling cry of pain... And then they were gone. Whereas normally Aspen might have screamed and ran back into the boat, he was paralyzed from the utter shock of what he witnessed.

Dahlia found herself staring at the evidence left behind of McKinley's presence, silently horrified. All she knew was that something had interrupted the agent's clean getaway, but she had no idea what. Right now, the gardener simply stared at the eye and wing, with only the crashing waves to fill the silence.

Asriel quickly glanced at the remnants on the deck of the boat, allowing a small grin. It was clear from the beginning that there was no way to stop McKinley from taking Ray, for a battle would have damaged the vessel beyond repair at the very least. But now, the Absol made sure to leave the Ford agent with a parting gift, the spoils of the encounter serving as a grim reminder of the consequences of underestimation.

MELON LORD · April 21, 2016

IC: Xander

He dropped to his knees as pain exploded through the side of his face. He would have screamed, but his chest constricted and he ended up sucking in air instead of expelling it. His free hand came up to clutch at his eye; the one around his ribs dropped down to brace him against the deck so he didn't fall flat. As McKinley recovered from the attack, Xander was sick, adding to the general mess on deck.

Once the agent vanished, the pain abated to some degree, but Xander was still catching his breath, feeling his ribs shift inside of him and his stomach heave to try and bring up the rest of his dinner from the night before. He closed his eyes -- Yes, he confirmed, there were still two there -- and tried to let the sensations roll off of him.

Sylph was kneeling, rubbing his back softly, concern written on her face. Xander shook her off lightly, attempting to stand and failing. Instead, he sat back on his heels, looking around at the others, hoping they hadn't noticed him nearly pass out. As he looked around, he caught sight of the blood splatter and the objects inside, and he felt a strange sort of satisfaction. They'd gotten him. They'd proved that the sun of a Houndoom wasn't invulnerable.

Despite the pain throbbing in his chest and the left side of his skull, despite the acidic taste in his mouth, he grinned a bit. Next time, they'd take more than an eye.

Konuju · April 21, 2016

IC: Ryan/Paul

Ryan had been standing closest to Ray and McKinley, and so he was among the first to see the bloody remains. The stitched wing fluttered gently to the ground, coming to rest beside the eye, which had rolled so that its pupil was staring directly at Ryan, silently mocking him. It had been foolish to think they could keep Ray from being taken. Was it just as foolish to try and rescue Sonja and Ellen? Was 'rescue' even the appropriate word?

He glanced around at the others. Xander had a small grin on his face, as if this had been some small victory for them. Ryan knew better. Sure, they had injured McKinley; but in doing so, they had only made him more dangerous. The Liberty agent shuddered as he recalled the crazed expression on the Fourth Child's face before he had vanished. The next time they met, Ryan had a horrible feeling McKinley would seek his revenge: an eye for an eye, so to speak. If not worse.

"Serves him right," Paul muttered darkly. "Next time I see him, he'll lose more than an eye. I'll make him pay for what he's done."

Ryan turned abruptly away, gripping the railing for support. The sight of the tattered wing and eye suddenly made him queasy. As he hobbled away from the bloodstained wood, he cast a glance at the blacksmith. "Would you push Ellen further away?" he asked gravely. Without waiting for an answer, he continued his solemn procession toward the stairs leading below deck. McKinley's eye haunted him, but not as much as his words. Ellen, Sonja, and Ray had each chosen to join Ford. Not only that; they all remained willing to help him.

For perhaps the hundredth time in the past week, Ryan wondered if he was doing the right thing.

And for the first time, he wondered if Ford was.

Metal Gear Minun · April 22, 2016

IC: Jamie Arthur - Boat, Boat, Boat

Jamie was somewhere between frustration and nausea. Frustrated that the bad guy got away but nauseated at the eye. It wasn't the least savory thing she'd ever seen; Pryce still held that title, but it was still pretty bad. Not even villains deserved that. A part of her wanted to call Lucia and ask if it was possible to preserve an eyeball for reattachment, but remembering how his head had looked made her decide it would be a useless gesture.

"You did well, all of you," she said turning towards the four Pokemon who were waiting for her. "You can all get some rest."

After dealing with her team, Jamie turned towards Evan.

"Are you alright, Mr. Tierra?" she asked with a concerned look on her face.

**Dr. Hidaka** · April 22, 2016

IC: Evan Tierra

Everything had happened so quickly, that Evan almost thought it too good to be true. Somehow, McKinley had been wounded. The expression that the Child had left the group with was burned in his mind. The Plasma Agent looked down at the wing and eyeball laying on the ground, and grimaced in pain, not just at the sight, but at the reminder that he too, was injured. "I've definitely had worse things happen to me." Evan remarked as he fell to one knee, gritting his teeth to stem the pain. "But I'm gonna need to lay down and get my arm checked out......"

JiMing · April 23, 2016

IC: Lachina Adaon

Lachina looked over at what Mercury and Anubis were going on about, shrugging afterwards. She hadn't ever been specially taught in infiltrating heavily guarded bases and was much more at home spending her times in the grassy environment outside of Vermilion. In fact, she saw several Pokemon nearby and smiled. "Hold on for a moment." the Ranger said, preparing the Capture Styler on her left arm.

With a few quick swipes of her arms, Lachina was soon surrounded by several different Pokemon. A Pidgey rested on her hand while a Jigglypuff bounced over to her feet, and an Oddish scurried over as well. She smiled when looking back at her new friends and seemed to not focus on the other group in that moment. Even though she was out of uniform, Lachina was happy to be acting like a proper Pokemon Ranger once more.

Konuju · April 23, 2016

OOC: Double jam time! First with JiMing, then with Blade!

IC: Ryan/Dahlia
Dahlia silently observed everyone who was standing on the deck around the bloodied wing and eye. Aspen was in something of a state of shock, Paul was simmering with hatred, Xander grinned ever so slightly, and Evan seemed caught up in his injuries. As she looked however, the gardener realized that Ryan wasn't there, and quickly turned to head down the stairs.

"H-hello?" she called out uncertainly, trailing behind Ryan. "Is... Is there something on your mind that you might... Wanna talk about? Or um, anything?" the middle Seaton asked, not even sure if the Liberty trainer was even paying attention at that point.

Ryan had been on his way to his room, but paused, one hand resting on the wall. He stared at his feet, not bothering to turn around to face Dahlia. "What is there to talk about?" he muttered. "We lost. There was nothing we could do. Nothing."

"I..." Dahlia began, before stopping. Ryan was clearly in a bad place again, and she wasn't sure she could get through to him with just words alone. The gardener instead stepped closer slowly, and wrapped her arms around him, gently pulling him into a hug from behind. "...Does this have anything to do with what happened in front of the kitchen yesterday?" she asked, gently holding the Liberty agent in her arms.

Ryan stopped, glancing over his shoulder in surprise. "In front of the kitchen... y-you heard that...?"

Dahlia nodded. "Yeah. Didn't want to say anything, b-but... Right now, um, you look like you need it." she said, sighing. "Y-you shouldn't put so much weight in her thoughts, Ellen was such a sweet girl when I saw her, you know? Never met a kinder soul. I-I'm sure there's something else for the explanation, so don't beat yourself up over it please..." the middle Seaton pleaded, squeezing a little tighter.

The Liberty agent sighed, smiling slightly at Dahlia's recounting of Ellen's kindness. "It's more than just Ellen, though," he said. "Sonja and Ray, too... all three of them chose to help Ford. I mean, we can try our hardest to rescue them, but it'll be pointless if they don't want to leave..."

"How do you know the circumstances would allow them to not choose to help Ford?" Dahlia challenged, frowning. "Or if they're not blackmailed into volunteering their services? You're only going off of what that McKinley person said, aren't you? Do you really trust everything he says?" she said, shaking her head. "I'm sure there's more to this story than he's letting on."

"I don't know..." Ryan looked to the ground. "You yourself said we might have to fight Ray... and if we do, we'll have to fight Sonja and Ellen too. I don't know if I can do that. We don't even know what it is Ford wants them to do. H-how do we know we're doing the right thing by stopping them...?"

"So what are you going to do then? Just give up?" Dahlia asked, tilting her head. "I don't think Ellen, Sonja, or Ray would want you to lose your will to keep moving. If we really have to fight them, your losing your determination to continue won't change that. And like I said, we don't know the full picture. So please... Don't give up. You won't know how they'll respond unless you try." the middle Seaton said, trying to instill some confidence back into Ryan.

"Y-yes, but..." Ryan's lip quivered. "It's just... all this time we've been fighting against Ford. Assuming he's the bad guy. But if three of our friends have joined him now... I just... I don't know. How do we know we aren't the bad guys, trying to stop Ford? I just want to do the right thing, but I don't even know what that is..."

"Do you know why they joined Ford? Or anything else besides what McKinley told you?" the middle Seaton challenged, furrowing her brow. "Why doubt yourself, when you have an unreliable source feeding you information, and nothing else? Keep in mind all three of them were still kidnapped, and Xander said Ellen was unconscious when she was taken. Maybe they really don't have a choice but to be willing." Dahlia said, sighing.

"Maybe you're right." Ryan turned around to face Dahlia, revealing his watering eyes. "I just don't like how everything seems too hopeless... We were completely powerless to stop Ray from being taken."

"Shhhh..." Dahlia said, embracing Ryan and rubbing his back. "You saw what happened to McKinley back there... He's not invincible. Maybe it will be a struggle, but Ford can't get away with this forever. I know we have the strength to change things." she muttered, backing off, her blue eyes facing Ryan's. "I know you have the strength to make a difference."

From the top of the stairs leading above deck, a Flaafy waddled over to Ryan, hugging his leg with her stubby little arms. A pair of Togekiss, also sensing the Liberty agent's distress, glided over to embrace him as well. Ryan couldn't help but smile at everyone trying to cheer him up, and looked back at the gardener with his watery brown eyes. "Th-thanks, Dahlia." He sniffled. "Leading a team like this is much more a burden than an honor. In times like these, I feel completely inadequate to lead everyone. But it's nice to know there's at least someone out there who believes in me."

Dahlia backed away as the Pokémon surrounded Ryan with the intent of cheering him up, and giggled softly at the sight. "Anytime, Ryan. I know you've got what it takes to be a leader. I'm not needed anymore from the looks of it, but if you start losing hope again, just give me a shout, alright?" she asked. "I'm glad we can be friends."

Ryan nodded. "Thanks again. Still... if today was any indication, we're going to have to double our training regimen if we want to have any chance against Ford. McKinley's not a force to be reckoned with, and neither are Ford's other agents like Hayes. I know we need our rest, but we can't let ourselves get too comfortable." He sighed. "One way or another, we will get our friends back."

"Alright, just... Make sure not to push yourself, alright?" the middle Seaton asked. "I know we have to get stronger; just please try not to be exhausted when it comes time to get those three back..." Dahlia requested, sighing. "Don't worry, I'll be training. Especially for these new Reverse powers..."

"Again, don't hesitate to ask if you need any pointers on that," Ryan said, smiling more now that he was feeling better. "It looked like Evan hurt himself pretty badly in that battle, and he's also got his hands full with that new Heroine of Time." He hesitated. "Maybe it would help to do some of our training together...?"

"Hmm... Yeah, there's an idea. I'd be happy to train with you" Dahlia said, a smile forming on her face. "Might be better than if I did that with Evan too, since you've had experience with Reverse specifically. And we could also train our Pokémon at the same time! Yours seem pretty strong overall, so it'd mostly be my team toughening up... But it'd still be great for both of our Pokémon." she rambled briefly for, blinking and sheepishly rubbing the back of her head afterwards. "Uh, that is to say, I'd love to train with you..."

"Sounds like a plan," Ryan said with a grin. "How does tomorrow sound? I'm, uh, gonna need some time to recover from everything that's happened today..."

"Tomorrow works, yeah... I get what you mean." Dahlia said, nodding with a sigh. "Chin up, though! You're doing great, Sanders. I know you got what it takes to face the challenges ahead. So don't lose hope, alright?"

Ryan chuckled. "Alright. Thanks again, Dahlia." The Liberty agent turned to head to his room, wearing a smile on his face. Sure, they had lost one battle. But the war was far from over. Whether Ford's plan was ultimately good or evil, Ryan didn't care. All he knew was that he was going to get his friends back, one way or another.

IC: Zoe/Colette
Zoe stared at the ceiling as she lazily tossed Esmeralda's Pokéball into the air and caught it. Idly, she wondered if the constant tossing would make her Pokémon dizzy. Esmeralda wasn't about to find out, because she was currently outside of the capsule, curled up at the foot of Zoe's bed.

She should have been happy. Collie was feeling better and was no longer bedridden with fever or whatever it had been that had ailed her. At least, she was better physically. Emotionally? That was another issue altogether. Although the aura wielder was out of bed, Zoe still saw little of her. When she did manage to catch her, Collie was quiet and reflective, lost in thought. Her somber mood was starting to spread to her little sister as well. Zoe didn't have it in her to play with her Pokémon like she usually did. Not when Collie was unwilling to join them.

And so she lazed the day away lying on her bed, tossing Esmeralda's Pokéball up and down, up and down, like the ticking and tocking of a clock counting out the hours until the weekend was over and Zoe had to go back to school. Her other hand subconsciously fingered the locket that hung around her neck, a force of habit she did whenever her thoughts drifted to her sister.

Colette, in the meantime, began to pull her gloves on, a small smile on her face. The girl felt refreshed after her resting. She had to admit to herself that she wasn't sure if she was fully recovered emotionally from everything that had happened... but she felt much better than she did at first. As she left her room, she began to softly hum to herself, and knocked on the door to Zoe's room three times.

"Heya." The aura wielder poked her head into her sister's room with a smile. "Whatcha doing?" Colette asked, as she walked into the room, overall seeming a bit peppier than she had been the days before.

In a strange twist of irony, it was now Zoe who was feeling unmotivated. She continued to toss her Pokéball up and down, casting a tired glance at the door. "Nothing much..."

Colette raised an eyebrow, and walked over to Zoe with a smile. "Hmmm... nothing much, huh?" The girl's eyes followed the Pokéball as if it were a pendulum, and then stretched for a moment. "Then... I guess that means you'd be free for a battle or playing?" She glanced over at Zoe, wondering what she might think of that.

The Pokéball fell onto the bed and rolled to the floor as Zoe sat straight up and looked at her sister with wide eyes. "Really?" she asked, hardly daring to believe her sister was really willing to play.

Colette giggled, and nodded. "Sure... I mean, if you want to, that is." She smiled a bit teasingly, but sat down on the bed. "I'm feeling better, so I figured I'd spend time with my sister."

Zoe threw her arms around Colette, then scooped up a startled Esmeralda. "Alright! C'mon, Esmeralda! We're gonna have a battle worthy of the Legendary Aura Master Collie!" Grabbing her sister's hand, Zoe dashed for the door, her heart racing in excitement.

Colette smiled as Zoe's mood did a quick 180, and followed her sister out of the house. "I think you might be surprised at some stuff too..." The aura wielder looked around as they got outside, and smiled more. "Up for a two on two battle? I was thinking Skulkraken and Vivian for me..."

Zoe nodded as they found a relatively clear area in their backyard, far enough away from their mother's overgrown garden that she couldn't complain about their battle ruining the dried-out crops. "Well, in that case, I'll have to use Eilonwy... and Esmeralda already said she wants to try!" The Fennekin in her arms gave a small yelp at the notion of fighting sea creatures. But Zoe had never paid attention much to type-matchups, and the young girl was far too happy for Esmeralda to consider protesting.

Colette was equally uncertain about that, but nodded. "Alright then!" The Aura wielder smiled with a giggle, as the Fennekin seemed to be resigned to the fight. She sent out the Clauncher and her Magikarp, the latter of which flopped around happily on the grass, eying the opposite side of the field with confidence. However, as the battle was still being prepared, Colette bent down and whispered to the fish. There was no actual reaction, but she could tell from his sudden burst in emotions that he had understood.

"Alright... ready now?" The elder sister gave a confident smile to Zoe. Although it had only been about a week since they had fought last, she found it refreshing to have this chance for a friendly fight.

"Yeah, I'm so ready!" Zoe spun around dramatically as she released her Feebas into the grass. Esmeralda leapt down to stand beside Eilonwy, casting a nervous look at Vivian. "Just because you're my sister, doesn't mean I'll go easy on you!" Zoe cried. "I'll show you just why they call me the warrior princess!"

Colette smiled with a nod. "Of course! I wouldn't have it any other way... Vivian, Water Pulse; Skulkraken, Splash!" The aura wielder smiled. She had a plan, and it involved the Magikarp doing what it did best. She looked up sadly at Esmeralda, watching as the Clauncher held her claw out. The pulse of water shot out from in between the makeshift jaws, heading toward the fiery fox quickly.

"Also, you two should watch!" The aura wielder giggled, as she grabbed the other two spheres from her belt, and let out her Wartortle and Mienshao.

Zoe's mouth dropped open. "Oh wow, Kammy and Myriam evolved? When did that happen?" While Zoe was distracted by her sister's new evolutions, Esmeralda dashed to the side to avoid the Water Pulse. She spat out a Fire Spin at the Clauncher in an attempt to distract it. Meanwhile, given no direction from her trainer, Eilonwy mimicked her Magikarp opponent by Splashing in the grass.

"You can do it, Eilonwy!" Zoe cried when she noticed her Pokémon had taken things into their own hands (or paws and fins, as it were). "Prove you're a better Splasher than that Magikarp!"

"During the mission~..." Colette smiled at the reaction, not having intended to distract Zoe, but still finding it heartwarming. She was glad that Zoe was so impressed at it.

The older sister giggled, as the Magikarp continued to spash around in the grass. "Alright; now Bounce up!" The aura wielder smiled, as the Magikarp flopped around a bit more, and then launched himself into the air. The Clauncher, in reaction to the Fire Spin, drew back, recalling the last time they had gone up against one. However, she grew determined, and tried to fire off a Water Pulse through the flames, even if it would be weakened from the attempt.

Meanwhile, Kammy took to watching the fight with a smile, but at one point, the Wartortle looked to the side, her attention caught by something else. Kammy looked back to Myriam, and filled in what she was planning to do, and then went to go investigate what had captured her attention.

"Eilonwy, Flail!" Zoe cried. The feeble fish Pokemon flopped upward, meeting Skulkraken as the Magikarp began his decent back toward the earth. The pair of fish slammed into each other and were both knocked back into the grass. Esmeralda, meanwhile, decided to put up a Light Screen to help protect the team. Nevertheless, the Water Pulse still managed to hit her, weakened as it was.

The Magikarp flopped around on the grass as he landed, and seemed to be smiling for a moment. He launched back into the air with a splash, and then launched off with a Tackle at the other fish, feeling happy that he could be helpful in this situation. Eilonwy Flailed again, preparing to meet Skulkraken's Tackle in the same form as she had met his Bounce. The fish collided in midair once again, bouncing back into the grass like before. Skulkraken flopped around for a bit, a little surprised at the Feebas' resilience. He Splashed again, and attempted to Flail out at Eilonwy like she had been doing to him. He wasn't sure, however, how well this would go for him.

Meanwhile, the Clauncher nodded as the Water Pulse hit. However, she could tell that this might be more difficult, with the Light Screen up. Getting a sudden idea, Vivian aimed her claw down at the ground, and let loose a brief pulse of water that allowed her to Splash over the wall of fire. As she was falling, the Clauncher attempted to fire a Water Pulse off again at the Fennekin. As she did so, Colette noticed the claw was beginning to shine in the light, but didn't pay much attention to it for the moment...

Knowing her fire moves wouldn't be of much help in this situation, Esmeralda concentrated on the Clauncher that had launched itself toward her. Then she let loose a Psybeam, aiming to throw off Vivian's descent. The Clauncher was hit by the Psybeam, and sent crashing to the ground. However, even while lying on the ground, Vivian raised her claw, and fired off a Water Pulse that shot toward the Fennekin. She tried to use the grass to hide it, but knew that likely wouldn't work so well.

Esmeralda saw the Water Pulse coming through the grass, and tried to leap out of the way. She yelped in pain as the jet of water struck her feet, turning her jump into a tumble. She rolled through the grass before coming to a halt on her back, stunned for the moment. Vivian used that moment to get back up, as her body began to envelop in light. The Clauncher was kind, especially in friendly battles; but this time, the reason she waited, was to both allow Esmeralda to get up... and to allow her evolution to occur. The claw began to grow, and the now-Clawitzer felt that this could be a good thing for her, her added power letting her overcome the Light Screen.

When Esmeralda managed to climb back to her feet, she was surprised to see a Clawitzer waiting for her. "Wow, Collie, you're just getting all the evolutions..." Zoe said, a hint of jealousy in her voice. "Esmeralda, hit Vivian with another Psybeam, and stay out of the way of that claw! She looks dangerous!" The Fennekin obeyed, striking out at the newly-evolved Pokémon with her mind. She had been at a disadvantage before, and felt even less confident now, but she still clung to the hope that her psychic attack could throw off Vivian while the Clawitzer was still adjusting to her new body.

The Psybeam worked to knock Vivian off guard again. She frowned slightly, as she tried to figure out the slight details of the new body on the fly. A ball of glowing energy formed in her claw as she fired off a testing Aura Sphere, which flew wide. She grimaced at that, although she couldn't help but be pleased with herself for finally managing to manipulate aura with her right claw. She looked up at the Fennekin, and tried to read the movements of the fox. If she couldn't hit directly, she'd just need to figure out a way to hit indirectly.

Meanwhile, Eilonwy decided it was time for a change of pace. Steeling herself, she Splashed into the air before opening her mouth and firing a DragonBreath at the flailing fish. Poor Skulkraken didn't see that one coming, and got sent flying back mid-leap. Credit needed to be given, however, as he did not yet faint, and simply splashed around some more. The Magikarp then attempted to Bounce back up into the air to hit the Feebas again. Eilonwy Flailed again at Skulkraken, this time trying to Splash higher in order to meet the Magikarp at the apex of his bounce.

Skulkraken sadly didn't stand a chance. As the fish was about to head back down, he was caught instead by the other splashing fish, and was sent flying down with a Flail. Dazed, the Magikarp was finally fainted, and Colette returned him with a smile. "Well done." She whispered to Skulkraken, who seemed to smile in his Pokeball.

"Good work, Eilonwy!" Zoe cheered as the Feebas smiled at her success. With that battle over, the girl turned her attention to the other half of the fight. "Now, Esmeralda, trap her in another Fire Spin!" Esmeralda obliged, knowing the fire attack wouldn't do much damage. But at the very least, it might serve to hold the Clawitzer in one place for a time.

Colette smiled at that. "Water Pulse, straight through!" The Clawitzer was uncertain how exactly this would help, but nodded slowly as the flames pelted her, and trapped her in the center. As she took aim at the middle of the flames, she hesitated. However, Vivian took a deep breath, and then launched off a wider Water Pulse than normal. It weakened a bit while heading through the flames, but was intended to at least try to hit Esmeralda while the Clawitzer was still getting used to her body.

The Water Pulse, aided by Vivian's enhanced aura capabilities, struck Esmeralda head-on, sending the Fennekin tumbling through the grass once more. Esmeralda poked her head up with a bark, glancing around in Confusion. At Zoe's command, she dashed toward the Clawitzer once more, ready to attack, only to trip over her own feet and tumble into the grass once more.

Colette cast an apologetic look at Esmeralda. "Go easy on her, alright?" The Clawitzer nodded, as she took advantage of the fact that the Fennekin had been grounded once again, to aim her claw at her. She fired off a slightly weakened Water Pulse, still being slightly off-center, but far enough on target that it was likely to still hit.

And hit it did. No sooner had Esmeralda poked her head up from the grass than the Water Pulse struck her in the face. The fox let out a yelp as she tumbled through the yard. This time she did not get up; weakened though the water pulse was, with her Light Screen finally faded the continual attacks had driven Esmeralda to unconsciousness. Zoe rushed over to her side and scooped up the sopping wet fox. "You did well, Esmeralda," she said, giving the Fennekin a gentle kiss. She looked up at her sister, smiling in attempt to mask her disappointment. "That was a good battle," she said.

Eilonwy flopped happily at Zoe's feet, proud that she had managed to conquer the karp. Esmeralda's battle may have been a disappointment, but Eilonwy's feat would be sung of for years to come. The Feebas idly wondered if Zoe's new bard friend could write an epic poem about her battle.

Colette smiled, as she recalled the new Clawitzer, and walked over to where Zoe was. "It was a very good battle. You did well; even when Esmeralda was at a big disadvantage, and neither of you gave up..." She giggled, as she gave the Fennekin a loving pat on the head. "I'm sorry that it was a little one sided for that, though..." She smiled both sheepishly and apologetically, but gave Zoe a hug. "Want me to teach some things later?"

Zoe sniffled as she hugged her sister. "You mean I get to learn the secret techniques of the great Aura Masters?" she asked with a giggle. "That sounds great! When can we start?"

Colette thought for a moment. "Hmm, how about later this afternoon?" She asked with a smile. While she didn't really have many plans, she figured that Esmeralda might want a little rest after that last battle.

"Sounds great!" Zoe grinned as she picked up the excited Feebas. After several days of boredom, nothing could drown Zoe's happiness, not even losing a battle. After all, win or lose, she still got to spend time with her sister. And that made everything worth it.

OOC:
For the record, Vivian's new profile can be found here.

MELON LORD · April 24, 2016

IC: Xander Cruize

The Kalos trainer allowed Sylph to help him to his feet. He had stopped smiling, instead letting a grimace overcome his features as he focused on his ribs again. Evan had said it best. "Yeah, Tierra. Let's you and me get down to the sickbay, see if we can't get patched up." He glanced at Sylph, feeling her ire. "You can yell at me later," he murmured. "When there isn't an audience."

Sylph huffed, pitting her hand on her hip as she followed her trainer below deck, beckoning for the two fox pokémon to follow.

IC: Mercury

Mercury frowned a bit as Lachina went off towards a patch of grass. What is she up to? he thought as he watched her wave her some device through the air. A moment later, he realized, and he grinned a bit as he saw her new friends. Good, she needed to do her Ranger thing every now and again, just to keep herself grounded.

"Huh, so maybe you actually do know what you're doing with that thing," he commented sardonically. A small smile played on his lips as he took her in. Despite the young age and laid-back attitude, Lachina was probably the more versatile of the two. While Mercury had only a few ways to approach a situation, Lachina could find new solutions close-by.

It was, honestly, just one of the many things he liked about her.

**Blessed Blade** · April 24, 2016

-==IC: Vermillion==-

There were no traces of aura around there recently. Nor were there any signs of guards.

"We go through the hole." Payton said with a sigh. "Climbing the wall would take too long, and if this is just us being lucky, then we can't really afford to lose any time here." She glanced to where Lachina was briefly, then looked back. "Let's go."

-==IC: Kammy==-

The Wartortle was curious as she looked around. She had definitely seen something around here. But now there seemed to be nothing. Kammy paused, as she looked down. A small tadpole-like Pokémon was smiling up at the Wartortle now, which confused her. The Poliwag waddled a little ways forward, and then looked back, as if wanting Kammy to follow. Unsure what to do, the turtle followed, wondering where the Poliwag was leading her. Her question was answered shortly after, when the two reached a small pond. It appeared to be the Poliwag's home, however, there didn't seem to be any other Pokémon around. Kammy barked out a question to that, however, the Poliwag simply smiled back, and happily waddled around for a bit, before hopping in the pond. The Wartortle noticed a scar on the tail of the Poliwag, and was about to ask what it was all about, when the Poliwag seemed to playfully hit her with Bubble.

Kammy fell back in shock, as she blinked, but the Poliwag simply swam around with giggles. The turtle seemed confused, but paused for a moment. She recalled that she had seen the other water type while the playful battle was going on, and tilted her head. She barked out whether the Poliwag wanted to play, and she squealed out with a smile, and would have nodded if it wouldn't have thrown her whole body off balance. With a leap out of the water, the Poliwag put on her best determined look, and seemed to be steeling herself for a fight. Kammy had started to begin to prepare an Aura Sphere, however, the Poliwag started to dance in return. At first, the Wartortle had no clue what was going on, as it simply seemed like a normal cute dance. Her question was answered as it began to rain over the area. Kammy seemed surprised, but smiled, as she launched off an Aura Sphere at the Poliwag. The Poliwag was surprised as the Aura Sphere hit her, but giggled, as it didn't seem to be that powerful at all. The Wartortle sighed at that fact, and got a few Bubbles to the face.

Kammy smiled, as after a while of trading attacks back and forth, the two began to retrace their steps. The Poliwag squeaked out some directions a couple times when the Wartortle would go the wrong way. Kammy had to admit that the Poliwag seemed like a nice happy Pokemon, and wondered something. She barked out a question to the Poliwag that was riding on her shoulders, and after a moment of stunned silence, got an excited reply. The Wartortle smiled, as they approached the house of the aura wielder and her sister once again...

-==IC: Ryan/Jenny/Jack==-

After McKinley had vanished, the boat had started to move again. Jack reappeared not long after, seeming to be out of breath. "The Pokémon seem to be retreating to lick their wounds..." He said, as the group's Pokémon that had been fighting in the sea leaped back on board, to not be left behind. It was then that Jack noticed the wing and eye. A hand went to his mouth, as he nodded. "I see... you were busy since that guy showed up..." He seemed to be focused on the eye in particular, but eventually tore his gaze away. He sighed. "We need to get a little ways away, but once we're far enough away, we'll set anchor for a bit to recouperate..." However, he frowned. "But... why would they attack us so viciously...?" The captain seemed preoccupied, and shook his head. "Everyone get some rest; who knows when we'll need it."

As Jack walked off, Ryan walked forward to look at the prizes of war. A scowl crossed his face, as he shivered. Something just didn't feel right about the objects, even apart from the fact that it sickened him. He turned away, and sighed. "That could have gone better..." He muttered, but clenched his fist. He was torn; this showed they could harm them. However, he was slightly troubled none the less.

Jenny, however, had more thoughts on her mind. She thought over everything that had been said and done. Ray had left Orihime behind; likely due to the time she had been spending with Togie. But he had also left Byakuya and Entei; on purpose. Something bothered her about that; especially about the nickname he had given it, which had never shown up beforehand. She was torn from her thoughts, however, as Evan fell to a knee. "Yes." The girl said with a slightly distracted look on her face. "Let's rest up, and discuss this all later, when everyone's able to actually focus." She nodded to Xander, and then tried to pick Evan up under his uninjured arm, as she followed Xander back into the inside of the boat, and to the sickbay...

A while later, after everyone had left the scene of the fight, Jack returned, and stared solemnly at the eye. This was on purpose, wasn't it? He picked up the wing, and gently picked up the eye as well, and bagged the two in separate bags. He walked off to place them in safety, and then returned with a mop to try and get the blood up. His only problem, was that it only seemed to multiply.

-==IC: Colette/Zoe/???(Jam)==-

As Colette was about to walk back inside with her sister, her Holocaster suddenly began to ring. The aura wielder blinked in surprise, and sheepishly smiled at Zoe. However, when she went to answer it, she noticed it wasn't a Liberty number, and answered it curiously. "Hello?"

A 2D hologram of a shy young girl popped up on the holocaster. "H-hello? Collie?"

Colette gasped, as she smiled. "Alexa?" She guessed, as she was surprised to have gotten a call from the young girl.

Alexa waved meekly. "H-hi. Um, how are you doing, Collie?" A faint barking came from the speakers, and suddenly a Growlithe popped into the hologram, panting excitedly. "Amber says hi, too," Alexa said with a laugh.

"Collie, who's that?" Zoe asked curiously.

Colette giggled, as she smiled at the hologram. "This is one of the people I met on Seven Island... Alexa, this is my sister, Zoe!" She turned so that Zoe was in the picture as well, and smiled wider. "I'm doing pretty well! How about you?"

"I'm doing much better!" Alexa said with a big smile. "Daddy said I should call you to thank you for saving me again, and to make sure you were okay. Hi Zoe, how ya doing?"

"Um, hi Alexa," Zoe said. Her arms were full with a fox and a fish, so she just smiled at the girl. "I'm doing great now that Collie's back, but it sounds like you two had a lot of fun together! I really wish I could've gone on the mission with Collie."

"Heheh, you must be so lucky to have Collie as a sister," Alexa said. "She's really great! Our family talks about you a lot, Collie; Daddy got a big award at work for helping save everybody, although he says that you and Jayron are the ones who deserved it. Oh, and I got out of the hospital, too. It was nice at first getting jello and cookies with all my meals, but the food at the hospital wasn't really all that good. Amber was happy to see me, though."

Zoe grinned. "Well, it's always good to have a pair of dog ears around. They're good luck!"

Colette smiled happily as she listened, and giggled. "That sounds great! I'm glad to hear you're feeling better, too!" She giggled again, her spirits raised even more by the surprise call.

Alexa scratched her head sheepishly. "Yeah... I, um, still have nightmares sometimes, though." Her smile faltered for a moment. "But Amber always makes me feel better. Don't you, girl?" The Growlithe barked happily and licked Alexa's face, causing the girl to giggle.

Colette smiled sadly, but giggled as Amber licked the little girl's face. "It's always a good thing to have someone to help you through things... I'm glad to hear Amber's one of those people!" She wished that she could help Alexa out with the nightmares, but knew it to be an impossibility. "Just keep tough, alright?"

"I will!" Alexa said, still giggling from Amber's licking. "I'll be strong, like you!"

The hologram shifted, as if someone was moving the camera, and suddenly another familiar face appeared. "Why hello there, Colette," George said. "We just wanted to check up on you and see how you and Jayron were doing after everything. And who's that you've got with you?"

"That's Collie's sister, Zoe!" Alexa's voice was slightly muted, as if she was further away from the mic now. "She's really cool!"

Zoe giggled at the compliment, her cheeks reddening slightly. "It's nice to meet you too, mister," she said, before turning to her sister and not-so-subtly whispering "Who is that?"

Colette smiled, as she looked to Zoe. "This is Alexa's father." She replied, with a smile, as she looked back. "I've been doing pretty good! It's been kinda quiet around here for me, though." She sheepishly smiled, not adding that half of the reason was because she had been recovering from the mission.

"Well that's good to hear," George said. "It's been pretty quiet around here too, after all the hubbub died down, which is nice for a change. Oh, Peter got out of the hospital the other day. He was pretty badly injured, but he's doing much better now. We also managed to find that Feraligatr, but it had calmed down, I suspect after you and Jayron... shall we say, fixed everything." Despite his cheer, the man seemed careful to avoid directly mentioning the Unown in front of his daughter. "Where is Jayron, by the way? How's he doing?"

Colette rubbed her head awkwardly, as she giggled a bit nervously. "I'm, well, not sure. He might be busy with stuff of his own, but I haven't actually seen him for a little while..." She sheepishly smiled. "I think he's doing well, though, but I can't really say for sure. If I see him in the future, I'll definitely say hi to him for you!" She didn't want to mention the argument the two had gotten into after they had gotten back to the island, but otherwise meant what she had said.

George smiled. "Well, thanks again for everything you did. You've truly saved our island. You'll have to come back and visit us someday; and bring Zoe along, too. It looks like she and Alexa would make great friends."

"Yeah, I'd get to play with both Collie and Zoe!" Alexa cried, and the camera suddenly tilted downward to show the girl's smiling face as she waved at the sisters.

Zoe giggled. "I look forward to meeting you then, Alexa!" she said happily.

Colette smiled happily, and giggled with a wave. "That would be a good idea... And you're welcome! I'm glad to hear that everything's going well there..." She was admittedly surprised to hear again just how much of an impact the two aura wielders had made on the tiny island, and its main town.

"Well, we'd better let you go," George said. "Looks like you two were having fun together, and I'd hate to interrupt. You take care, now."

"Bye Collie!" Alexa cried. "Bye Zoe! I'll see you soon!" Amber gave a bark.

"I'll be looking forward to it!" Zoe grinned as she nodded her goodbye.

"See you soon!" Colette giggled, as the call was ended, and the girl sighed, as she returned the Holocaster to her pocket. However, as she thought for a bit, she realized there was something else that needed to be attended to, and she turned to Zoe. "I'll be back, alright? We'll practice when we get back... Right now, I-" The girl paused, as she noticed Kammy returning with a Poliwag on her shoulder. The Poliwag squeaked in happiness, as she mumbled to Kammy for a moment, got a reply, and then motioned to Colette as if there was something the Poliwag wanted.

"Oh wow, did Kammy meet a new friend?" Zoe rushed over to the two water-types and knelt down to smile at the Poliwag. "Hey there, little guy." In her arms, Eilonwy flapped a fin in greeting to the tadpole Pokemon.

Colette giggled, as she knelt down as well. As Zoe was introducing herself to the Poliwag, who seemed equally ecstatic to meet another new friend, Kammy tried to explain things in charades. The beige haired girl nodded at each thing, and then raised an eyebrow. "Apparently Kammy's convinced this Poliwag to join us, because she liked how we were playing..." She giggled, and smiled. "I think that sounds good to me..." The aura wielder quickly ran inside, and then returned with a Pokeball.

Zoe sadly had her hands full with Eilonwy and Esmeralda, so she couldn't pet the Poliwag. Instead she resolved to smile at it and talk to it while her sister was inside grabbing a Pokeball. "You're gonna love Collie, I know it! I'm Zoe, by the way, a warrior princess. Together, Collie and I like to go on adventures and beat bad guys and save the world! But hm... if you join us, you're going to need a name."

Colette thought for a moment as she heard that. "Any ideas, then, Zoe?" She giggled, but nodded that her sister had a point there.

Zoe thought for a moment. "Well, it's a water-type..." She smiled. "How about Squirt?"

Both Kammy and the Poliwag shook their heads, or equivalents, in regards to that name. "Hmm... I think that might be a bit too close to Squirtle, and might be confusing, Zoe... Sorry, but I think you might have been overruled..." Colette sheepishly scratched her head, and thought for a moment. "Well, she definitely seems like a super happy Pokémon. What about... Pollyanna?" The Poliwag did the tadpole equivalent of a nod at that, and the aura wielder smiled. "Sounds good, then! Again, sorry Zoe..." She awkwardly giggled, but knelt down again and pressed the capsule against the Poliwag. It shook for a bit, but then clicked, signaling the fifth member of the girl's team. She stood up again afterward, and sighed. "Alright... Now, to the trickier part."

-==NPC: Barry Pearl==-

A blonde messy haired man knelt in front of a shrine in a building near Twinleaf Town. This shrine was dedicated to the guardian of the nearby lake. The man looked up with a grim frown, as he recalled how the year before, the guardian, Mesprit, had nearly been used for immoral purposes. Barry sighed. History just keeps repeating itself, doesn't it? He continued to remember the past. About six months earlier, there had been a situation much like this.

-----

Barry had just stood up, and was about to turn around, when three people walked into the building.

"Who are you?" The man gripped a Pokéball in his hand, as he looked at the people cautiously. He didn't recognize them or their outfits, and got a bad feeling from the looks of them. One of them simply chuckled, as the person walked forward.

"We simply want to talk to you. You are Barry Pearl, correct? One of the three that helped solve the issues with Dialga, Palkia, and Giratina years ago? Son of Palmer?" The person wore a smile that sent a chill up Pearl's spine. "We are from Déoza. Am I correct in thinking your job is guardian of this shrine?"

"No." Barry warily took a step back. "That's the job of-"

"Your daughter, correct?" Barry's blood ran cold at that. "Oh? You look surprised. But she's not here right now. You look after it when she's unable to, correct? Because you feel it's your job when she isn't around. In fact, you try to make excuses. To... protect her?" The smile made Barry want to run away, but he got the sense that it wasn't possible to. Not at that moment, at least. "And that's partly what you're trying to do right now, correct? You're trying to dissuade us, thinking we're after her. We are not. We were having a nice little chat, Mr. Pearl. Are you wanting us to stop it?"

The person advanced toward Barry for a moment, the smile turning to a frown. Barry gripped the Pokéball, as the Déoza agent tutted with a wag of a finger. "I wouldn't do that, if I were you. Have you not considered you family at all-?"

"Shut up!" Barry roared, as he swung the Pokéball, releasing a rather angry Infernape. "If you don't stop threatening my family, I'm going to fine you 10 million dollars!" The look of anger on the trainer's face made the Déoza agent seem to reconsider things for a moment, but the smile returned. Somehow, that seemed even worse.

"Why, Mr. Pearl..." The Déoza agent's smile became more malevolent then. "Who said I was threatening your family? It was threatening you."

Barry's eyes widened, as he managed to jump back just in time to dodge a sneak attack from a Mawile who seemed rather eager to get its jaws on him. The shock didn't last long, as his Infernape quickly dispatched the Mawile with a Mach Punch. The agent simply seemed amused.

"Do you think that will save you?" The agent's smile seemed more taunting than before. "You are surrounded. If you think you can escape, you're sorely mistaken."

"Am I?" The agent's smile faltered, as he seemed confused. The middle aged trainer smiled confidently. "Chimler, now!" The breaking of glass signaled the appearance of smoke that filled the room. Déoza agents that had been hidden moved from their hiding places while coughing against the smoke. Charging feet hid the sound of a recalled Pokémon, as they all rushed toward where Barry had last been seen. However, as the smoke cleared, it was obvious that he had managed to escape in the chaos.

The agent who had been speaking stayed quiet, with merely narrowed eyes. "Leave him for now." The agent stared at the shrine, eyes filled with hate now. "He'll return eventually."

After a while more of searching, the Déoza agents left for the moment. From the wall behind the shrine, a sigh could be heard. "Those guys were persistent..." Barry mumbled, as he pushed the wall away, rubbing his eyes. "Good work, Chimler... but this doesn't sound good." A grave look was on the trainer's face, as he wondered just what was going on.

----

The man sighed, as he shook his head. He had managed to get his family to safety, but he felt uneasy still. He thought back to his daughter, and the look she had given him when he had said that she needed to be gone again. Even after the latest visit, he knew that she was bitter, but he couldn't risk her being a target to draw him out. With a sigh, he knew that he had said things he shouldn't have said, and that things had already been strained in the past two years. He just hoped she would realize it sometime.

"Having fun daydreaming, Mr. Pearl?" The voice made Barry scramble to his feet as he turned around. "What? You didn't expect me to try to check this place again? You have been a very elusive person. And very thorough. You've hidden your wife and daughter from us, correct? Or tried to, at least. And yet, here you are." The Déoza agent was frowning, as if still annoyed at how Pearl had escaped the last time.

"If you touch a hair on them..." Barry warned, knowing that if it was like last time, he probably wouldn't even have a moment to react. However, the agent's laugh cut him off.

"Do you honestly think we would care about them? We have you here now. You have been caught. For now, that's all I care about." The agent smiled. "And this time, you have nowhere to run or hide, since I've already experienced your little tricks."

"How much do you know about this building?" The agent's confused look answered Barry's question. "This was built as a way to... how should I put it... stop people who might abuse Mesprit's power. It's not a foolproof method, but..." Barry smiled. "It has ways of protecting the shrine... like so." He stepped back, and the temple was flooded with the mid-day light. To make matters worse, even with the Go-Goggles that hung around the agent's neck, being caught off guard meant that Barry had gotten a moment to hold up his arm. The light reflected off his Pokétch and into the Déoza agent's eyes. The agent hissed out in anger from being blinded, and looked around, trying to figure out where Barry had gotten to. To make matters for the agent worse, Barry slammed into the malicious trainer. Being knocked to the ground meant that the agent's sense of direction was thrown off even more. By the time the agent had recovered, Barry was nowhere to be seen. Curses echoed throughout the temple, as the agent glared in the last general direction Barry had been seen.

I swear... I will find you, and kill you... and your family. The agent stormed off, vowing revenge for being shown up not just once, but twice now.

**Dr. Hidaka** · April 24, 2016

IC: Evan Tierra/Jenny Hakuda, 3 hours later

Evan had been laid down, after some treatment of his broken arm. The Hero had his arm restrained to his chest area, to keep it from moving. As he laid there, he couldn't help but wonder what was going to happen now,. With Ray gone, and things as they were, things just seemed uncertain. As Evan delved deeper into thought, he heard a knocking on the room door. "Come on in." the Plasma Agent spoke, glad to have some company while he thought.

"Hi..." Jenny walked in with a worried look on her face. "How you doing? I mean, you took a heavy blow and all, so..."

"I've definitely had better days, but I've had waaaay worse." Evan remarked, chuckling weakly as he did so. "It hurts a bit, but I'll be fine. What about you?"

"Well, I didn't really get hit too badly... everyone seems shook up about all that happened, but..." The girl scratched her head, as she frowned. "That was a brave thing you did. Reckless, but brave." The frown briefly vanished, as her usual smile reappeared, however, it was obvious she was worried about something more.

"I've done enough lying around, Jenny." Evan remarked, noting her facial expressions, especially the frown. "I wasn't gonna just stay down while you and everyone were fighting so bravely. That's how it is for me."

Jenny nodded in return. "Yeah... I just get reminded of, well, what we talked about when we met your parents, and all."

"Ah, right..." Evan remarked, furrowing his brow as he recalled that event. "You mean when we told them what happened? If so, then I understand what you mean..."

Jenny nodded. "Yeah... that exactly." She trailed off there, not knowing how to react more than that.

IC: Flashback, Eterna City

As the sun set in Eterna City, Evan Tierra had been psyching himself up for something that he knew he had to do. It wasn't exactly the easiest thing to do, especially considering what it was. He had to tell his parents what happened in Unova. The Plasma Agent laid in his room, pondering ways to explain what happened. He thought of many ways to go about it, but just could figure out the right approach. He looked around his room, noting how simple his life had been before. How would one go about telling their own parents that they were killed in battle, and brought back?

Jenny knocked on the door, and looked into the room. "Heya, I think dinner's ready..." She paused, as she looked at him curiously. "Everything okay?"

"I'm.......just thinking about Unova." Evan remarked as he got up from his bed. "Especially about what happened with Black Kyurem. I feel my parents have a right to know what happened. I just can't think of a way to say 'Hey mom and dad, I got killed in battle but somehow came back.' No matter what I think of, I just can't grasp the correct way to do it..."

Jenny stayed quiet for a little bit, as she thought that over. "That is a tough question..." She thought for a moment. "Why not just say it outright or so...? I mean, it might not be the correct way, so to speak, but... in this case, is there a correct way...?"

Evan rubbed his forehead, and thought for a moment. "Perhaps you're right." Evan spoke, trying to steel himself. "There is no real right way for this, so I may as well try it anyways. Let's go. I think it's about time anyways."

The girl nodded, as she smiled. "I'm sure it'll go fine. Well, at least as best a fine as it can." She sheepishly giggled, but hummed, as she walked back out of the room, hoping that everything would be okay.

After the two had finished dinner with Alexander and Maya, they went to the living room and started talking. After a while, Evan finally saw his chance to bring up what happened, and he wasn't going to waste it.

"Mom and Dad, there's something I want to tell you...." Evan said, making sure to keep his mind steady. "Something I wasn't exactly sure you'd like to hear...."

Alexander was the first to respond. "What could it possibly be, hm?" The large man spoke. "What could possibly be so bad that you couldn't tell us?" Maya nodded and followed up. "I'm pretty sure whatever happened, it won't change anything." the woman spoke. "Go on and tell us, my boy."

Evan gulped, and then, told his parents about the events leading up to what happened at Dragonspiral Tower. How he had become the Hero of Space. He made sure to mention all the friends he had made on the way, and all the trials and tribulations he had endured. But then came what happened after. He explained how Zekrom had mortally wounded him, and what happened after. As Evan drew close to what happened with Black Kyurem, he clenched his fists. He shook as he told them of the battle between Palkia and Black Kyurem. Then he managed to reach the point this was all leading up to...

"I perished in that fight."

Jenny listened, as she looked around the room as everything was said. She wasn't sure who to focus on with the last thing that Evan said, and awaited the reaction to that, slightly worried, but hoping that things would just work out right.

Silence hung in the air, as Evan waited for his family's reaction to his announcement. He couldn't tell what was going to happen. So, the Plasma Agent was surprised when Alexander crossed his arms in front of him and grinned. "Yet here you are before me, Evan." Alexander remarked proudly. "Sounds to me like it was a poorly done job then!"

Maya, however, had different thoughts about the situation at hand. "How are you here then?" the woman asked. "How is it you are still here? Please tell me..."

Evan nodded, his head feeling heavy as he explained what he had seen. He told them of how Dialga had managed to bring him back, and how he managed to fight off Black Kyurem as a result. The Plasma Agent went silent after explained what he did after the fight, wanting to make sure his parents got their opinions in.

Alexander thought deeply on what to say, feeling very confused about the matter. "You saved a lot of people, Evan." Alexander spoke. "Even when it cost you your life, you didn't think twice about it." Alexander remarked, smiling warmly at his son. "Few can say they've taken that chance and live. To know my son is one of them, fills me with pride."

Maya Tierra had heard many things, but this had to be the most astonishing thing she had ever heard. Not only had her son fought bravely, but he did it without blinking. To know that one of the creatures responsible for creating this world, had actually given her son a second chance, not only made her feel proud, but grateful as well. "You fought like a hero." Maya remarked, looking at Evan with pride. "And you died a hero as well. Like Alex said, not many come back from that, but I am glad my boy was one of them."

Jenny smiled. To know that things had worked out made her happy, and she looked around with a nod. She was pleased with this outcome, and kept quiet for the moment, knowing the family needed this.

Evan was astounded. His family had taken the news surprisingly well. He guessed it was because he actually came back. The Plasma agent felt relieved that things worked out like this. Especially considering everything. "I'm sorry if it may worry you, but I'm pretty sure that won't be the end of it for me." Evan remarked. "You have no idea how happy it makes me, to know that you feel the way you do. Thanks, mom and dad."

IC: Present Time

"I don't think my family would be mad about what happened now, Jenny." Evan said, smiling a bit. "They're tough. We're all tough. They'd be glad to know that I am still as spirited as ever."

Jenny nodded, as Evan had a point. "I guess so... I don't know, you're right, but I think..." She trailed off for a moment. "I think I need a little bit of time to think it over. I'll, um, be back in a bit, alright?" She managed a smile, but didn't seem quite as cheery as usual. "Take as much time as you need, Jenny." Evan said as he closed his eyes for another rest. "I'm not exactly going anywhere. Just do what you've got to do."

Jenny nodded, as she walked out of the room, a look of worry on her face once again. What she wouldn't admit, is that right now, she was worried about the reactions in a different way than Evan knew...

Edited April 24, 2016 by Hades

**Blessed Blade** · April 24, 2016

-==IC: Jenny==-

Jenny sighed, as the events of the day finally had drawn to a close. Although everything had pretty much gone wrong, she had initially kept hope. That is, until Evan had collapsed again, and had become obvious that he wasn't going to be able to shrug it off. Between that, and her brother getting taken away, she sighed, as she leaned against a wall. She winced slightly, and recalled something she had said a while back... The girl pulled out her X-Transceiver, and began to dial a number.

Ring. Ring. Ring.

Maya Tierra heard her Pokegear ringing as she was cooking dinner. The woman grabbed it and her heart did a fantastic leap of joy when she saw that it was Jenny's Caller ID. Without missing a beat, she answered the call. "Hello Jenny!" Evan's mother had answered cheerily. "How are you doing?"

Jenny smile weakly, and awkwardly chuckled. "Well, I can definitely say we've all had better days..." The girl sighed, a perplexed look on her face as she tried to think of a way to begin explaining just how things had gone.

"Had an off day, Jenny?" Maya said, noting Jenny's face. "Go on and tell me, dear, and leave nothing out."

Jenny sighed again, an uncertain look briefly showing, before the girl nodded. She explained about what had happened with the boat, and everything that had happened to the passengers, and then explained about the things that had gone on afterward. While explaining about Evan, however, Jenny felt guilty. She thought that she had broken the promise to Maya; that she hadn't managed to keep Evan safe.

Maya nodded as Jenny told her story. She was astonished that such a thing occurred on their boat. The woman continued to listen, until what happened to Evan was brought up. "How did it happen, Jenny?" Maya said, her face showing slight signs of worry. "Is Evan ok? Please tell me he's ok, at the very least."

"He seems okay... not really moving too quickly, but I think he cracked a joke or two before resting." Jenny smiled a bit at that, and then explained how the Azumarill had taken a rather bad disliking to the hero of Space, and how it had been taken down afterward by the new addition to their group, Jamie.

"That's a relief....." Maya replied, sighing as she spoke. "At least what happened didn't hurt his good humor. Are you ok?" Maya smiled warmly at Jenny's image on the screen, chuckling a bit herself. She knew Jenny was worried about the promise she had made to her when she visited with Evan that time. She also knew what to say to Jenny, regarding it.

Jenny scratched her head. "I'm not hurt... but..." She frowned a bit. "I feel like I let you down."

"Dear.......don't worry about it." Maya said, smiling at Jenny. "I know you made that promise, but sometimes it just can't be helped, especially after what you two told Alexander and I. About what had happened to Evan before we met. He's my boy, and he is a hero."

Jenny paused as she listened to what Maya had said, and then smiled. "You're right... plus, he was awesomely stylish doing it. He actually managed to snap Ray out of the funk he'd been in, too." She giggled, but scratched her head. "I just hope this isn't a sign of things to come..."

Maya felt a wave of joy wash over her at what Jenny said. "Come what may, you'll triumph." Maya spoke kindly. "Not only because my boy is with you, but because you are with my boy. Together, you two are unstoppable!" At those words, Maya struck a dynamic pose, making sure Jenny could see her do it.

Jenny smiled widely, as she nodded. "You're right! Even if we must train harder for the challenges ahead, I'm certain we can win..." She giggled happily, as she tried to strike her own pose. Sadly, the most she ended up doing was moving the device, so the camera tilted.

"As one of our family said, I think you can go as far as you want, and never stop!" Maya spoke, noting what Jenny had done with a smile. "I have to get back to what I was doing, Jenny. But thank you so much, for taking care of Evan, and for calling me. It made my day."

"You're welcome..." Jenny smiled, a bit surprised at the fact that it had helped Maya out. She nodded happily, and giggled. "It made my day as well, really. Now, I feel a lot better."

"I hope you continue to feel that way, my dear." Maya said happily, as she prepared to end the call. "Remember, it's not a Tierra that trembles, but the Earth that trembles before a Tierra. Now, take it easy. Bye-bye!"

With those words, Maya ended the call, making sure the last thing Jenny saw was her smiling face. Evan's mother continued to cook, humming as she did so.

Jenny smiled, as she closed the communication app, and giggled. She began to hum to herself, as she walked away. Rest sounded good to her too, as she winced again slightly.

MELON LORD · April 24, 2016

OOC: No Vermilion or Alamos ICs because this one's kind of a doozy.

IC: Xander Cruize and Sylph

He lay in bed, one arm draped over his bare chest. He had thought that the bruises from Chloe's psionic bursts had been ugly, but this was something else. The ship's medical officer had informed him that they no longer wrapped broken ribs because it restricted breathing which in turn led to pneumonia. Instead, they would leave them unwrapped unless the movement of the ribs caused further damage-- which wasn't likely, with Sylph's healing.

The Heal Pulse hadn't fixed his ribs. She hadn't been able to do that, or she would have. For now, he would let her check daily to make sure that he didn't puncture a lung or tear the muscles around the ribs any more than had already been done. That tearing of the muscle was the reason behind the bruising, because blood seeped into the space there. It would go away on its own eventually.

The ribs weren't what was bothering Xander at this moment. No, that was the glare his most trusted pokémon was giving him as she administered the healing. Sylph had been eerily silent since the fight with McKinley, and Xander could feel her anger through the still-lowered mental shield. Finally, he sighed. "Alright," he conceded. "Let's get this over with."

You're a cursed fool, Xander! What were you thinking?! No, don't answer, because I know. You weren't thinking! You haven't thought before acting since we stepped off the boat in Slateport!

"That's not even remotely true." He glared. "I thought in Lilycove, helped coordinate people. There wasn't time to think with Feral and that Tentacruel."

We communicate at the speed of thought, and can have whole conversations in seconds. Don't tell me there wasn't time for thought!

"Fine, there was time for thought, but if I'd thought about it, I'd lose the instinct that let me dive into the ocean to save Ellen!" He was matching her tone-for-tone now, his brow furrowed. "What would you have done?"

I would have done exactly the same, but the difference is that you can't teleport if things get bad. And it was a Tentacruel! Of course it went badly! But I could have saved Ellen and may not have even been injured!

"Yeah, fine, whatever. You can teleport, fantastic. But I'm the trainer. It's my job--"

Exactly wrong! Your job is to stay out of the fighting and let me do the dangerous stuff! Because even if you are psychic, you're still just--

"Just a human! Right, and you're so much better because you're not?!" His ribs protested at the shouting, but he paid them no heed. "If that's the case, why stick around? Why do you need me at all, if you're so--"

You are putting words in my mouth! I don't think I'm better than you, or I would just let you go into danger. You are the most important part of this team, not any of your pokémon. Not me, not Vixen, not Ellen.

The two didn't speak, for a time, both letting their anger cool down a bit. Finally Xander shook his head. "Fine, whatever. I'm just... I'm not myself, right now. This stupid empathy has me on edge." He could feel everyone on the boat right now, all the triumph and defeat, all the joy... And all the anger.

"Can we put my wall back up? That whole thing with McKinley--"

Unfortunately not. You still need to learn how to block them out on your own. If we put up the wall now, it will only hinder your abilities later.

"I really don't care right now. Maybe I'm done learning. I don't want to learn anymore."

No. I won't do that because you're not--

"I said put it back up! I give, okay?! You've broken me, are you happy? I don't want to be some special guy anymore, I don't want psychic powers or empathy or any of it! I just want it to stop."

You're not yourself, you just said it. I won't do it until I know you're thinking rationally.

"Sylph! You're being cruel, and condescending. Stop treating me like I'm a child!"

Sylph frowned, locking eyes with her beloved trainer. I will stop treating you like a child when you stop acting like a child.

That caused Xander to pause. With a growl, he unclipped a ball from his belt. "Return."

Excuse me?

"I said return, Sylph! I don't-- I'm the trainer, right? Just do as I command and return!" He pressed the button on the ball. Sylph didn't block or dodge, or even argue. She just gave her best level glare as the light absorbed her.

Alexander Cruize lay back on his bed and let himself cry.

Edited April 24, 2016 by Carbevoir

Konuju · April 25, 2016

OOC: It's a Jayron Jam! A Collie Collaboration!

IC: Jayron/Colette

In his office, Jayron lightly dozed. A folder lay open on his lap, detailing a variety of encounters different Liberty agents had had with Ford or his agents. The page he had been looking at detailed an incident that had been seared in his mind ever since he'd gotten back from Seven Island. At his side, Lucario stared at the page, arms folded across his chest. It had been the pair of aura wielders' first encounter with the weapons company Déoza. And Jayron had almost been assassinated.

Lucario's thoughts shifted back to the events on Seven Island. Just how were the Unown connected to Ford? What was Ford's overall plan? How did it tie into more recent events like the destruction of Havoc? These thoughts troubled him.

The Aura Pokémon looked up as he sensed a familiar aura approaching the door. Moments later, a knock roused Jayron from his sleep. Stifling a yawn, he sat up straighter in his chair, trying not to look like he had just woken up. "Come in," he called.

As the door opened, Colette slowly walked in, and gave a weak wave to the two there. "H-hi..." She had not thought everything through on how she would approach the conversation yet, but knew it needed to happen. "I, um, wanted to talk to you about the other day..."

"Oh, Colette." Jayron quickly closed his folder. "Have a seat. What is it you wanted to talk about?"

Colette bit her lip for a moment, as she went to sit down. "Well, um..." She hesitated for a moment, as she steeled herself. "I-I'm sorry! I'm sorry for what I said and did after we got back."

The sudden burst of emotion caught Jayron off guard. He glanced at Lucario before looking back at Colette. "Um, like I said, we both needed sleep. I take it you listened to what I said, though? Regarding your responsibility as an aura wielder?"

Colette stayed quiet for a moment, but nodded. "I know that I have responsibility." She sighed, as she thought back to the discussion they had that night. "I know that I need to try and act more responsible, when I'm actually asked of it." She smiled a little ruefully, though, and sighed. "And I know that I can't really use exhaustion as an excuse for what happened, even so... it may have been the cause, but it was still me." She went quiet again, and looked down.

She had thought this over ever since leaving Jayron's office the night they had returned from Seven Island, and although at first she had tried to rationalize her own argument to herself, she had eventually come to the conclusion that she had been really wrong. What Jayron had said had been right, and yet she had tried to deny it simply because she didn't like it.

Jayron nodded. "Well, knowing you need to change is a good first step. It's probably a big adjustment for you, going from training to what you might call the 'real world.' I'm just glad you're thinking about it."

Lucario stayed silent, but nodded at the exchange. His eyes peered at Colette with what might have been judgement, or could have been simply curiosity. It was hard to tell.

The girl nodded as well, but seemed to be thinking about something for a moment. "What are your thoughts on... that file you showed me?" Colette recalled he had mentioned some things about it the last time, but she seemed a bit uncertain.

"On Operation H.O.P.E.?" Jayron frowned. "Colette, you have to keep in mind that that file was written over a decade ago. Things have changed. I mean, sure, there will always be people who view us more as assets than as people, but people like that are few and far between." A scowl appeared on the executive's face for a brief moment, but it was gone as quickly as it had come. "Besides, Team Liberty would be foolish to think aura wielders, psychics, and the like could singlehandedly win the war. And it's not like that matters now anyway, with the current ceasefire."

Colette thought that over for a moment, and then nodded with a small smile. "You have a point there..." She said, and scratched her head. "Have you ever done something you regret, though? Like, um, yell at someone who really didn't deserve it?"

Jayron chuckled. "Feeling remorseful, are we?" He leaned back in his chair, folding his arms. "Yeah, I've gotten into arguments with friends before. I wouldn't say it's that uncommon, really. But, the important thing was, I went back and apologized, like you're doing now." He flashed a smile at Colette. "Besides, I never really thought you were mad at me, just at Team Liberty in general. I do appreciate the apology, though."

Colette smiled with a small chuckle, and nodded. "That makes sense." She thought for a moment longer, however, and looked curiously. "What about those who do seem to deserve it, at the time?" She thought back to what had happened at the dance, and wondered if that same thing would apply.

"Well, that's hard to say." Jayron scratched his chin with a frown. "On one hand, some people need a firm reminder to snap them back into shape. But at the same time, if they just seem to deserve it, if you're not careful, you could really hurt their feelings." He fell quiet for a moment, pursing his lips with a long sigh. "I know it's a bit of a controversial matter among aura readers, but I think that would be a good case to really look deep into someone's aura to see what they're feeling, and maybe get a bit more context before you go yelling at them."

Colette thought that over for a moment, but then nodded. "That makes sense..." She stayed quiet for a bit. "Hopefully that will work out if needed, then..." She nervously laughed for a moment, but then seemed to remember something. "Oh! That's right; before I headed over here, Alexa and George called to thank us again." The girl giggled as she remembered that, a smile on her face.

"Oh, really!" Jayron leaned forward with a smile. "How are they doing? Has Alexa recovered?"

Colette nodded with a smile. "Sounds like it! She said she still has her nightmares and such, but it sounds like she's been doing better otherwise..." She giggled with a smile as she explained about all the other things that had gone well since they had left.

It sounds like we've really made a difference on that island, Lucario said, a soft smile forming at the corners of his mouth.

"Agreed," Jayron said. "That's what being a Liberty agent and aura wielder is all about. Helping those in need. How's Zoe been, by the way? I bet she was excited to have you back."

Colette sheepishly smiled at the latter question. "Yeah... she was really excited to have me back..." She smiled a bit ruefully. "Too bad it took me until today to really get back into shape enough to really interact a lot." She giggled, however, and smiled. "I think we'll be making up for it, though. We had a pretty cool battle earlier, and she was pretty amazed, and I think a bit jealous, that my Pokémon have been evolving."

"Well, that's good to hear," Jayron said with a laugh. "Despite your anger, the other day, you had a point; you need to balance work and play. Especially when you have a little sister like Zoe. She seems to be a handful at times, but I think she really adores you."

Colette smiled, and nodded. "Yeah, she does... I think that was one of the tougher parts of the training, admittedly..." She went quiet again, and for the first time seemed to notice the files. She looked at the pile quizzically, and then looked up. "Oh, um, did I interrupt something?" She tilted her head, wondering if he was researching something top secret or so.

"Oh, this?" Jayron motioned toward the file, ignoring Lucario's mental reminder that what Colette had really interrupted was his nap. "It's a report of every encounter one of our agents has had related to John Ford. After what the Unown said, I've been looking into Ford more. He seems to be on the move, but we still aren't quite sure what his plan is." He slid the file across the table toward Colette. "You're welcome to look through it if you want; it really goes to show just how dangerous Ford is."

Colette nodded curiously, and looked down at the file curiously. She read through with interest, and shuddered a few times through it. "Wow..." She was surprised at just how brutal most of the things were, or were attempted to be. "How could anyone...?"

"That's the kicker." Jayron looked at Colette gravely. "We don't know Ford's motivations behind all of this. Yes, he claimed to be trying to end the war, but we have a ceasefire now. His more recent escapades have been a lot more brutal, like completely destroying Team Magma's base. It's clear he's planning something big, but we don't know what."

Colette frowned, as she looked up. "This sounds..." She sighed, and shook her head. "I can't believe that anyone could be this cruel... I hope this ends well..." She shook her head again. "If I hear anything, I'll let you know, alright?"

"Thanks." After Colette's apology, and her disgust at Ford's actions, Jayron knew she wouldn't try any pranks again. He gave her a smile. "And I'll let you know if anything else comes up. We made a pretty good duo in Seven Island, and I look forward to working with you again."

Lucario coughed.

"Sorry, we made a good trio." Jayron scratched his head sheepishly.

Colette giggled. "You have a point there..." She smiled slightly, and stood up. "I look forward to that too. Though, hopefully it won't be quite as intense as that last fight." She awkwardly smiled, as she rubbed her arm, still recalling just how draining it had been.

"If Ford's involved," Jayron gave her a grave look. "Then it will be."

JiMing · April 25, 2016

OOC: Blade wanted a jam, I said yes. Here it is!

IC: Dahlia Seaton

Dahlia Seaton smiled as Ryan disappeared, but was then hit by a wave of exhaustion herself. The middle Seaton dragged herself to her room and collapsed on the bed. She lay there for a while, digesting the information that she had absorbed from all of today, and sighed.

Without really anything else she could do in that moment, Dahlia opened up her Pokegear and scrolled through her contacts. Her eyes widened at the "Taylor" who appeared in her list. "The artist..." she recalled, eyes widening. The gardener quickly typed out a message, trying to see if she was there.

It seemed at first that there would be no reply. However, soon enough, a response appeared, confirming that the girl was, in fact, there.

Dahlia quickly typed out a response to that, asking the artist how she had been doing lately. At that moment the gardener thought she could use a distraction from the confusion from today.

"I've been fine." Taylor replied. "How about you? We're getting close to where we need to get to, did you manage to do what you needed to?"

"Not exactly... A lot's happened since we last talked." Dahlia replied, hestitating. How could she possibly condense the events of the last few days? And the Reverse powers... Taylor would think the gardener insane after the end of things.

"Oh? A lot? Like what?" The curiosity seemed apparent even in text form.

Dahlia hesitated, and sighed. "I got superpowers from Giratina, the boat was swarmed with wild Pokemon, and a friend willingly let himself be kidnapped." she sent out, hoping Taylor wouldn't just give up right there.

"Giratina? Kidnapped? Are you alright?" The reply sounded a bit worried. "That definitely does sound like a lot has happened!"

"I'm alright." Dahlia responded, thinking about what she should say next. "Hopefully things are easier from here."

"Hopefully... But wow, you met Giratina? That sounds cool! And admittedly I think it'd be a little scary, but it sounds like you handled that well."

"Mr. Giratina's very nice actually. He made me his chosen Heroine of Reverse." Dahlia explained. "I'm going to have to train a lot from now on."

"Oh wow... that sounds like a big job! Congrats; hope everything goes well there, at least." The reply sounded happy, and even had some happy emotes at the end to help show that.

"Thanks." Dahlia replied. "Thanks for listening, just wanted to talk to someone after how hectic things have been."

"You're welcome. I know how listening can be helpful; especially if in a stressful situation like it sounds you were in! I hope you find your friend, though, and that ends well!"

"Thank you! Good luck to whatever you are doing too!" Dahlia replied, with Taylor thanking her one last time. Talking to someone about what had just happened, even briefly, helped her process what had happened that day, and gave her the confidence to keep going forward.

Edited April 25, 2016 by JiMing: Joining Sectors

**Blessed Blade** · April 25, 2016

-==IC: Ryan/Boat==-

A day passed on the boat. True to the captain's word, the boat had anchored for a little time when they had gotten far enough away from the Pokemon horde. The rest of the evening passed without any further incident. Jack started the boat moving when night fell, and from then until morning, there was no danger. After breakfast, Ryan helped the captain move the food crate up to the kitchen. The black haired man was lost in thought, as he continued to try and make sense over what had happened the day before. He recalled how Jenny had said she wanted to explain her thoughts on the matter after checking in on Evan. Ryan looked up at Jack curiously, as the captain seemed equally lost in thought.

"Say, Jack, what are your thoughts on this mess, anyway?" There was no answer, and Ryan furrowed his brow. "Jack?"

"Hm?" The shipmaster seemed distracted, and looked up, as if just coming out of a daze. "Oh, yeah, I don't know..." The two continued toward the kitchen, passing across the deck as a shortcut for the moment. Ryan looked at the captain oddly, as he seemed less in the zone than normal.

"Hmm... you okay? I mean, everyone else seems to be a little shook up from that attack in one way or another..." The captain said nothing, and stopped suddenly. "... Huh? What's up, Jack?" Ryan was concerned at that moment. He wondered if he had touched a nerve somehow, or had somehow said something he shouldn't have. The next moment, however, Ryan grunted, as he found himself suddenly holding the full weight of the heavy crate, as one end crashed to the ground. The captain had dropped his end, and stood staring at the ground, his hair covering his eyes.

"H-hey, what's... the big idea...?" Ryan struggled to keep his side in the air as he closed his eyes, thinking that the captain would pick the crate back up in the next moment or so. However, footsteps and a metallic noise made him open his eyes... before he could drop the crate, a sharp pain filled Ryan's body. The trainer screamed out in pain as he stepped back and dropped the heavy object. He instinctively raised his right hand to his left arm. It throbbed in so much pain that he thought he might faint, as he found he could not move his hand, and that even attempting to raise it was painful. He looked up at his assailant, a bewildered look on his face. The captain held a baseball bat in his hand, a cold look in his eyes as he stared back. Ryan felt a chill run down his spine, or maybe that was shock talking, as he barely registered Jenny running onto the deck.

"Everyone is to stand down now, or there will be worse happening." The captain said with a cool tone to his voice, as he unclipped the Pokeballs from his belt with one hand. "There... has been a change of plans." A Ditto, Pinsir, and Swampert appeared on the deck, as he reached into the crate, and pulled out a gun that was hidden among the food. "We're following my plans now."

-==IC: Jenny==-

"And here's breakfast." Jenny said, as she smiled. She was still worried about how Evan's injury might affect things, but she hoped that things would work out well enough with help. She placed the tray on its bed stand, and sat down. "I'm sure everything will work out fine, you know? I mean, we're not far from Four Island now. And if we're lucky, you might be moving by then, if not before! And maybe then, we can try a test battle against each other for onc-" The girl was cut off, as a bloodcurdling scream rang out from the top of the deck. Jenny gave Evan a shocked, worried, and incredulous look, and promptly jumped up and ran out of the room to see what was going on.

What she found, made her blood run cold. Ryan was standing next to a crate, his arm bloodied and seeming rather useless. Approaching him, was Captain Jack, holding a steel bat. When the Captain sent out his Pokemon, Jenny sent out her team too. However, she froze in terror, as the captain drew a gun from the crate, and held it at his side. A gun?! Jenny had been in tough situations before, but this was definitely a new one. However, she steeled herself, hoping that this wouldn't end horribly.

Metal Gear Minun · April 25, 2016

IC: Jamie - Gary Mother- I mean, On a Boat

Jamie went to bed the last night severely in need of punching somebody. The bad guy got away and she could no longer do anything about it. A hero's job was to catch the bad guy and she failed at it. He had been wounded sure, but she would have far preferred him brought to justice unharmed than what he actually got. The pillow that she had been given received the brunt of her aggression through the night until she eventually fell asleep. However her desire to work out some aggression had not died down.

So if it wasn't for the sheer horror of the scream, Jamie's mood probably would have improved at the prospect of a fight.

As it was though, it proved to have been a very rude awakening. The shout had jolted her awake and she instinctively reached for Pelleas's Pokeball. She also reached for Palomides's Pokeball, deciding to give the other members of her team rest after yesterday's events.

Pelleas took point, with Jamie in the middle and Palomides's covering the rear. No one was in the hallway up leading up towards the deck at the moment but they proceeded with caution.

"Hey what is the big idea?" she called out after they reached the deck, as she had seen Jack and his weapon and Ryan on the ground.

Pelleas placed himself between Jamie and Jack, adopting a defensive stance. He wasn't as sturdy as Tristan, but since the Metagross wasn't here, he had to play both roles right then.

Edited April 25, 2016 by Minun of the Fourth Choir

Pokémon: Rise Of The Rockets

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