-134-
Once again, Mack was hard at work in the main control room of his underground laboratory. He was sitting in front of Central's main control console with his gaze fixed upon the screen and his green fingers at the keyboard. A soft humming sound, electronic clicks and beeps filled the room. Mack was busy reviewing design schematics for what would be his next major undertaking.
"Show me design #J Alpha, Version #78, please," asked Mack.
"Certainly, Mack," was Central's cheerful reply. Almost immediately, a complex wire frame design for a new set of battle armor was displayed on the large screen. Mack critiqued the 3D model closely, wanting to make certain that everything was in perfect order with no further faults in the design.
"I think this is the one we'll use," said Mack as he stood up from his chair and leaned over the keyboard and console to take a closer look, "If these calculations are correct, the replacement for the S-100 Type I Battle Armor should have at least ten times the defensive capabilities of the old model."
"As well as a twenty-fold increase in firepower," added Central as one of her cameras panned to the right, focusing on Mack's face, "Are you sure this is the design you wish to use?"
"If nothing, this setup is very, very close to what we need," replied Mack, "I only wish we had a way to eliminate the requirement for a gravity gyro as well as decrease the armor's weight by at least 25%. We also have to find a way to reinforce the complex systems and circuitry. The last thing I want is more catastrophic failures, like what happened to the S-100 I."
"In order to do that, we would have to decrease the armor plate thickness by 50% and add substantial reinforcements to the internal structure," said Central, "Certainly an unacceptable tradeoff of defense for less speed and reliability. Not to mention all the reinforcements needed for the onboard systems." Mack let out a sigh as he sat back down in his chair.
"I think it's official, Central," said Mack as he leaned back, "Unless we find a suitable new metal to replace the ultra-alloy composite, we will not be able to make the S-100 J nearly as nimble and resilient as needed."
"Are you suspecting that Shadow Mack will don armor at least as powerful as the S-100 J?" queried Central.
"Probably a lot more powerful," replied Mack, "Whatever we build, it will have to push our current technology to its very limits, and that's saying something considering the thousands of years worth of research we've done on the S-100 and all its variants." Mack almost jumped when he felt someone put their hand on his right shoulder.
"Sorry, dear," said Aura sweetly, "I didn't mean to startle you." Mack looked over his right shoulder, his gaze falling upon his smiling wife's face.
"It's no problem," said Mack as he stood up from his seat and took a few steps towards Aura before wrapping his arms around her, "I was hoping for some company."
"Perhaps having another person collaborating will help us come to a more viable solution?" suggested a hopeful Central.
"I'd be glad to help," said Aura with enthusiasm while she and Mack embraced, "So! What are you two working on today?"
"I would say we have the same level of problem as trying to get the proverbial square peg in a round hole," answered Central.
"In other words, we're trying to find a replacement design for the S-100 Type I armor," explained Mack.
"The biggest problem is that our current materials are incompatible with the best new armor design we currently have," said a somber Central, "The calculated prototype would be downright unwieldy due to its size and weight."
"Right now, we're looking at an armor suit that makes us roughly 8 feet, 2 inches tall and has an estimated weight of at least a few thousand pounds," said Mack, laughing nervously, "That would put a lot of strain on the power generators, hydraulic actuators as well as the gravity gyro."
"Let's see… if I remember correctly…" said Aura, trying to recall some of her memories, "A gravity gyro bends the gravitational field around an object, making it weight substantially less, or a lot more if you needed it to."
"That is correct, mistress," said Central respectfully, "I'm very glad to see that you have learned much about Mack's inventions." Aura laughed warmly and held Mack tightly.
"Of course, it really helps that I inherited practically all of my husband's knowledge from the time when he and I had to inhabit the same body," giggled Aura.
"Oh, yes," remarked Central, "I had almost forgotten about that. Still, your input will definitely be of great help."
"Thank you, Central," said Aura with a smile as she and Mack sat down together on the seat before Central's main control console, "So, what are the primary building materials that we have to work with?" Central paused for but a moment as she retrieved information from her massive data array.
"Currently, a metallic composite known as Ultra-Alloy will be used for the armor's outer hull with micro chainmail made of the same material to reinforce the armor's joints. Lastly, a super-conductive metal known as Mega-Alloy will serve as the main material for all circuits and wiring for the onboard systems, such as weapons, shield generators, computers, life support and other such things," was Central's very thorough reply.
"That problem is that these alloys will make the new armor suit bulky and extremely heavy," said Mack with disappointment, "If the gravity gyro was knocked offline, we would be dealing with nearly 2,000 pounds on our bodies. Then all the hydraulic systems needed to move such a heavy object efficiently would also add more weight to the armor while making it larger and all the more unwieldy. Heck, we may as well be trying to build a small tank instead of mechanized body armor!"
"So…" said Aura, leaning against her mate's left side, "Why not create some new types of metals?"
"I'm already working on that," said Central, "But all the analyzing of possible new alloys is very time-consuming, especially since a very large portion of my processing power is being reserved for finding a concoction which will revert Mack back to his original form while transforming you, Aura, into a vixen: without any chance of side effects or death."
"Then there's only one thing to do," said Aura as she stood up from the large, cushy chair, "We'll just have to wait until you find some better metals for us to work with."
"But the process could take years," said Mack with a scowl, "And Shadow Mack is out there. I can't imagine what he's planning now." Aura merely smiled as she bent over, reached out and gently held onto Mack's hands.
"If all we can do is wait, then there really is no point fretting over this problem, is there?" asked Aura softly. Mack looked up at Aura: he let out a gentle sigh and smiled.
"I've said it before and I'll say it again," said Mack as he stood up and met Aura face to face, "A wise husband always takes his wife's advice to heart."
"Besides, we have other things to deal with for the time being," said Aura sweetly, "Like you learning ballet." Mack froze: his smile and calmness gone in an instant.
"Now, wait!" said Mack fearfully as he let go of Aura's hands and took a few steps away from his grinning mate, "I never said anything about learning ballet!"
"You're going to have to learn sooner or later," said Aura in a sweet manner that still managed to freak out her husband instead of calming his now thoroughly frayed nerves, "Next spring, I want to go to Olympus to have you fitted for a ballet dress and slippers. Then we need to arrange having an instructor visit us here in Gardev at least once a week for lessons."
"You can't make me…!" started Mack as Aura leaned forward and gently placed one of her fingers against Mack's mouth.
"Just think of it as learning more about Gardevoir traditions, which you may remember is part of my job since you were not born as one of our species," said a smiling Aura. Mack said not a word as Aura turned around and started on her way out of the control room. She only paused for a moment to look over her shoulder as the main doors slid open: her mate looked like he had just been sentenced to death and would now be on his way to the gallows at any moment. Once Aura had left the room and the heavy metal doors had closed in her wake, Mack managed to regain only a shred of his composure.
"Gadzooks… So, I have what…? Six months until… my doom?" asked Mack slowly, "Oh, man…"
"I would hardly call it doom," said Central, hoping she could reassure her creator and dear friend, "After all, Gardevoirs greatly value dancing and you're always talking about how much you want Aura to be happy…"
"And it looks like I'm going to eat those words before long…" said Mack with a heavy sigh as he sat back down in the chair and slumped against the black leather cushions, "With a horrible side-dish of white lace and satin…"
"Considering your high status, I imagine that a considerable amount of jewels would be part of the attire as well," said Central, "Besides, at least Gardevoir ballet attire is nowhere near as flashy as your wedding dress or ball gown." Mack looked over into one of Central's cameras, his face clearly showing the despair that now plagued his mind.
"Central… you're not helping me at all…" was the last thing Mack would say to anyone for the rest of the morning.
-135-
The morning may have gone without any further problems, except the occasional Pidgey or Spearow making an unexpected stop on their flight, courtesy of the cloaked S-5. Nonetheless, Crystal was very nervous about meeting her in-laws. Gremlin could easily tell that his wife was very worried, so he spent the morning and the early afternoon at her side, reminding her now and then with a gentle voice how much he loved her and about how loving his mother and father were. Crystal, of course, greatly appreciated the comforting words of her mate. Still, she couldn't help but be nervous, not knowing what to expect. By 2:00 in the afternoon, Gremlin and Crystal were enjoying a nice dance, glad to have the massive stage all to themselves.
"Thank you Gremlin," said Crystal softly as she and her mate twirled together in their sparkling wedding attire. A small radio and CD player with speakers filled the auditorium with faint, yet pleasant music.
"Oh? For what, my love?" asked Gremlin sweetly.
"For helping me feel better," said Crystal with a gentle voice.
"You are very welcome, my lovely ballerina," said Gremlin, chuckling warmly as he and Crystal continued to enjoy sharing another waltz together, "Trust me, dear: my mother and father will be utterly delighted to meet you. In fact, my brother is coming to visit, too!"
"I didn't know you had a brother," giggled Crystal, "Is he a lot like you?" Gremlin cleared his throat.
"He's a bit unusual, but don't worry," said Gremlin reassuringly, "He's a very nice fellow. I'm sure he'll be happy to have you as a sister-in-law."
"So, when do you think they will be here?" asked Crystal with excitement. Gremlin smiled happily, noticing how Crystal was feeling better and was now looking forward to meeting her new mother and father in law.
"They should be here any moment now," replied Gremlin with a bright smile on his face. No sooner had he finished speaking when a loud knock from one of the auditorium's lower-level entryways echoed throughout the cavernous room.
"Gremlin?" asked a somewhat gruff voice from behind the center aisle door, "Are you in there? May we please come in?" Gremlin and Crystal stopped dancing and quickly adjusted their dresses and red sashes, since Crystal really wanted to make a very good first impression to her new mother, father and brother in-laws.
"Come on in, Dad! Please!" said Gremlin joyfully. The twin doors at the end of the center aisle slowly opened inward, revealing a pair of Pokémon, standing side by side and holding hands: one of them was rather tall and the other one was much shorter. Needless to say, Crystal was very surprised. She knew Gremlin's father was a Sableye, but she never imagined that her mate's mother was a Jynx. The newlywed Kirlia wasn't the only astonished Pokémon in the theater. The moment the older Sableye got a look at his son, he nearly fell flat on his face.
"Easy, dear… Easy," said the Jynx with a silvery voice and a smile on her face as she steadied her husband. Gremlin's father quickly regained his balance and again fixed his gaze on his son. The older Sableye erupted with laughter, as did the Jynx.
"Why on earth are you dressed like that?" laughed Gremlin's father, not sure what to make of Gremlin's wedding dress, "You sure are full of surprises, son!"
"Just like you, Pop!" said Gremlin happily, "Please! Come join us on stage! My lovely bride really wants to meet you."
"She is indeed very lovely," remarked the Jynx with a gentle voice as she and her husband approached the stage, "I must say, beautifully dressed as well." Crystal blushed slightly as Gremlin's parents climbed up onto the stage and stood before their son and his smiling Kirlia wife. Crystal noticed that Gremlin's father was about the same height as her mate. The older Sableye smiled and held out his right hand towards the blushing young bride.
"A pleasure to meet you, my dear," said the older Sableye cheerfully, "My name is Asmodeus. The lovely creature on my left is my wife, Cheryl."
"I'm very delighted to meet you, Crystal!" said an enthusiastic Cheryl as Asmodeus gently shook Crystal's right hand a few times, "Gremlin has told us a lot about you."
"Really?" asked Crystal with a smile, "What has he told you?"
"All kinds of things!" cackled Asmodeus in reply.
"For starters, you are a very nice and very talented young woman," said a happy Cheryl, taking a few steps towards Crystal and Gremlin, "Like Gremlin, you are an accomplished ballet dancer and were even promoted to the rank of Teacher during the summer. We even heard about your wedding."
"I'm proud of you, Gremlin!" said Asmodeus, "You made your wedding day quite… 'Memorable' for not just you and your bride, but you also unnerved a good number of your guests with your powers. Heh, heh! I'm very happy that you found such a loving creature to be your wife."
"I wouldn't have gone and married him if he was a total monster or a slob," said Crystal with a smirk.
"Ah! I see you have a good sense of humor as well, Crystal," remarked Asmodeus, grinning at the smug bride, "I think we're going to get along fine."
"Are those diamonds on your dress, Crystal?" asked Cheryl with amazement, "I don't think I've ever seen such a beautiful lady."
"Yes, there are small diamonds accenting the embroidery on my dress, Cheryl," replied Crystal, "My jewelry is made of gold and diamonds, too! I got to have such lovely wedding attire because I'm a ballet instructor and also because my father is the captain of the Elite Guards in Olympus."
"Ooh! I like the red, shimmering sash you are wearing. It goes very nice with your dress," remarked Cheryl with a smile.
"Why, thank you, Cheryl," said a cheerful Crystal.
"Hey, dear," said Cheryl to her husband, "Do you think you could get me a nice outfit like Crystal's someday?"
"Maybe on our next anniversary we can renew our vows," said Asmodeus, shrugging his shoulders, "That would be the perfect time and yes, I would get you something dazzling for that day."
"So…" said Cheryl with slight nervousness in her voice, "Why is Gremlin wearing a wedding dress, too?"
"I was about to ask that myself," chuckled Asmodeus, "Were you just trying to freak me and your mother out?"
"Actually, Gremlin wore a wedding dress for two reasons," said Crystal, a bright smile on her face.
"That's right!" cackled Gremlin with a toothy grin, "First off, I wore this attire because I wanted to follow Gardevoir tradition for Crystal."
"You are quite cute in your fluffy dress," giggled Crystal.
"Thank you, my love," said Gremlin with warm laughter, "Well; I also dressed up like this to freak out some of the guests."
"Such as your best friend, Simon?" asked Cheryl with a smirk.
"That's right!" laughed Gremlin, "You should have seen the look on his face when he saw me coming down the aisle! In fact, most of the other guests were rather unnerved at my attire, too!"
"Just look at the embroidery," said Crystal sweetly.
"I see," remarked Cheryl with awe, "It looks like horrible, black bramble has wrapped itself around Gremlin. The thorns look like they are tipped with small diamonds, too."
"Watch what happens when he walks," giggled Crystal. Gremlin laughed as he strutted back and forth on the stage.
"Well I'll be a Mankey's uncle!" said Asmodeus as he erupted with laughter, "It looks like those horrid vines tighten and constrict around Gremlin with each step that he takes!"
"All while the diamonds sparkle in the light!" said Cheryl, laughing warmly while Gremlin walked back to his wife's side.
"Simply brilliant!" said Asmodeus, clapping his hands together, "I would expect nothing less from you, my son! Bravo! Ha, ha, ha! You must have put on quite a show at your wedding, indeed!"
"Oh, he was a real showoff, alright!" laughed Crystal. Once Gremlin was standing back at his mate's side, the newlywed Sableye only then remembered something about his parents' visit.
"Say… Mom, Dad?" asked Gremlin, "Where's my brother, Michael? I thought he had decided to tag along with you."
"Of course!" said Asmodeus sheepishly, "I almost forgot! Crystal: you would like to meet Gremlin's brother, right?" Crystal smiled and nodded her head in reply. Cheryl giggled softly and turned around to face the open twin doors at the opposite end of the center aisle.
"Michael! Please come to the auditorium!" Cheryl called out, her voice echoing throughout the massive room, "Crystal would like to meet you!" Crystal kept her eyes on the open doors: she was somewhat anxious to meet her new brother-in-law. She figured Michael would be an unusually-tall Sableye, like Gremlin, but nothing could have prepared the young Kirlia for what she would soon see. A shadowed figure appeared in the doorway, somewhat taller than Gremlin and with a silhouette that somewhat resembled a Jynx, only thinner. As the unidentified Pokémon stepped in the bright lights of the auditorium, Crystal nearly dropped to the floor in shock. Sure enough, Gremlin's brother may have been a Sableye, but not only did he have long, blonde hair that almost reached to the floor, but he also was wearing the familiar red dress with yellow highlights around the chest area that all Jynx traditionally wore. Gremlin helped steady his surprised mate as Michael made his way down the aisle and was soon on stage, standing before Crystal and Gremlin with a friendly smile on his face.
"So you must be Crystal," said Michael with a gentle voice while he bowed towards the shocked bride, "I'm delighted to meet you."
"Gremlin…?" whispered Crystal to her husband as quietly as she possibly could, "Um… are you sure this isn't actually your sister and that her name isn't Michelle?" Michael erupted with warm laughter, clearly hearing what Crystal had said.
"Michelle, eh?" laughed Michael, "To be honest, I often answer to that name as well."
"You don't have to be afraid, dear," said Cheryl cheerfully to the bewildered Kirlia, "Michael is very nice and he's been wanting to meet you since hearing of your and Gremlin's wedding." Gremlin gently held Crystal close and whispered tenderly into her right ear.
"My brother thinks he's a Jynx," said Gremlin bluntly, "He may look unusual, but he means well."
"Oh?" said Crystal, thinking she understood what was going on, "So that is why Michael is dressed like that?"
"Kind of…" whispered Gremlin hesitantly.
"Really?" said Crystal as she stepped towards Michael, "Then this has to be the most elaborate wig I've ever seen." Asmodeus, Gremlin and Cheryl would have tried to stop Crystal, but before anyone could move a muscle, the young Kirlia grabbed onto one of the long locks of hair and tugged at it. Gremlin and his parents were wide-eyed and Crystal absolutely horrified as Michael let out a blood-curdling scream.
"That hair is real! Gaaaah!" yelled Michael as Crystal quickly let go of the soft hair and jumped back to her mate's side, her head hanging low with shame.
"I'm so sorry!" said Crystal, shaking with fear.
"I forgive you," said Michael with a heavy sigh of despair, "That isn't the first time someone has tugged at my hair, thinking it was fake. Sheesh…"
"Maybe I should have been more specific," said Gremlin nervously, "You see, my brother is sort of a half-breed: the body of a Sableye, but he also has the long, silky blonde hair of a Jynx." Michael chuckled with glee.
"My hair is also prehensile, just like that of a Jynx," cackled Michael as his long hair lifted off his shoulders and pointed straight up into the air before he let if fall back down onto his shoulders, "I can do all kinds of things with this hair."
"As for the red gown," explained Cheryl as she came along side her long-haired son, "Michael has worn one practically every day of his life since the day he was born." Michael, with a nervous smile on his face, shrugged his shoulders.
"What can I say?" said Michael with warm laughter, "I rather like it. I don't know why, but it just feels… natural to me."
"Michael… I'm so sorry for hurting you…" said a saddened Crystal. Michael looked at the despairing Kirlia and smiled.
"It's okay, Crystal," said Michael as he stepped towards his sister-in-law, "I said I forgive you. Now, please dry your eyes. Besides, before you grabbed my hair, I was going to say how lovely you look. I've never seen a wedding dress and jewelry as glamorous and stunning as yours."
"Oh, thank you," said Crystal sweetly while Michael looked over his shoulder towards his parents.
"Mom, do you think I can have a dress and jewelry as pretty as Crystal's when I get married?" asked Michael innocently. Nonetheless, Asmodeus, Gremlin and even Cheryl couldn't help but erupt into laughter. Crystal giggled to herself.
"Michael, I don't mean to get your hopes down, but I think the only way you will ever get away with wearing a wedding dress is if you marry a Kirlia," said Crystal with a smile.
"Well…" said Michael sheepishly as he twiddled his thumbs, "Then I don't suppose you have any sisters who are single, still Kirlias and looking for a mate, do you?"
"Now, now, Michael," said Asmodeus softly, "No need to rush into marriage. I'm proud of who you are: never forget that. Your appearance is deceiving: any wise Pokémon or human would know better than to take you on. Your power is immense, plus being a half-breed has given you powers that you normally would not have. Not to mention how adept you've become at ghost arts."
"I'm very proud of you as well, Michael," said Cheryl sweetly, "Just be patient, my son. One day, the right love will come to you." Michael smiled and chuckled with anticipation.
"I think there are plenty of Kirlias who would really like you," said a cheerful Crystal, "Your hair and attire are definitely two of your most prominent features." For a few hours, the five Pokémon stood on the otherwise empty stage and talked with one another. They shared stories and talked about recent events. Crystal was very happy and her fears were altogether gone: Asmodeus, Cheryl and Michael had all made it very apparent that they accepted the young Kirlia into their family and also greatly cared for her. Before any of them realized it, the sun was starting to set and twilight was once again descending upon the massive city of Alakaz. The three Sableyes, Jynx and Kirlia only realized how late into the afternoon it was when K-1 rounded the corner and came walking down the center aisle.
"Everyone, if you will please excuse me for interrupting," said K-1 with a polite bow towards his guests, "It is currently 7:35 in the evening. Dinner is ready and waiting for all of you. Asmodeus, Cheryl and Michael: I figured you would be visiting for most of the day, so me and the R-25s made plenty of food to go around. You should come with me before dinner gets cold."
"Ah! K-1, you already met my folks?" asked a surprised Gremlin.
"Who do you think let them in here?" said K-1 with warm laughter, "Now, please follow me."
"May I ask what is on the menu, K-1?" asked Asmodeus politely.
"New York strip steak, baked potatoes and spiced steamed vegetables, all served with a choice from a few dozen fine wines," replied K-1 with pride, "Dessert is Kona coffee and chocolate mousse with your choice of fruit syrups."
"Sounds absolutely wonderful," said Cheryl happily, "A good meal is just what we need to go with our conversation." Before long, the small group of psychic and ghost Pokémon had gathered together in the small apartment's modest dining room. The R-25 robots acted as waiters to assist the dining guests. It took the better part of an hour for Gremlin, his wife, brother and parents to get through the first course. Between good conversation and a wonderful dinner, there really was no rush.
"So! That is what the red sashes that both of you are wearing mean," remarked Cheryl with amazement, "They are worn only by ballet instructors in the Gardevoir settlements."
"That's right," said Crystal happily, "It took me several years to master the art of ballet and now, I get to teach it."
"I'm not surprised," said Asmodeus with an appreciative nod as he sipped his steaming coffee, "You seem like a hard worker to me, as well as one who would never give up on their dreams."
"Gremlin, where did you learn to dance?" asked a curious Cheryl, "You said you had only been living in Olympus for maybe a year or two before you joined a ballet class there."
"Actually, I learned how to dance right here at the Alakaz Dance Hall," replied Gremlin with a bright smile, "Back when humans were actually performing here, I would spend hours watching them dance every day and every night, learning their techniques and mimicking their movements while hiding in the rafters or in the shadows. Heck, I even swiped some unused dance costumes and modified them to fit my body for more realistic practicing, if you will. I stayed here completely unnoticed for several years before making one of the biggest blunders of my life."
"Is that so?" said Asmodeus, a grin spreading across his face, "Dare I ask what transpired here that fateful day?"
"It's a long story, but to put in all in a nutshell…" started Gremlin, "I decided to join a group of ballerinas on stage who were performing 'Dance of the Sugarplum Fairy' from the 'Nutcracker Suite'. I even had my own ballet dress and slippers, but the moment I jumped on stage, foolishly thinking everyone would just sit back and enjoy my performance with the other dancers, the whole place went into a full-blown panic!" Asmodeus was laughing as he listened to Gremlin's story.
"You really must have cleared the room, huh?" laughed Asmodeus.
"I sure did!" cackled a proud Gremlin, "The whole audience, roughly two-thousand strong, ran screaming out of the building. It only took a few minutes for me to be the only one left in the dance hall. Since that day, no one ever set foot in this building again. They were so afraid, nobody even came back to reclaim the large collection of fancy and lavish dance attire!" Michael and Cheryl couldn't help but laugh as they heard about Gremlin's ill-fated premier.
"That's my boy!" said a smiling Asmodeus, "Your performance may have been an utter failure, but you still managed to scare a few thousand people out of their wits all at once! Well done!"
"Thanks, Dad," said Gremlin happily. It only took a few minutes for everyone at the table to regain their composure. The peace would not last long for Crystal had another question: one she was very hesitant to ask.
"Um… Cheryl?" asked Crystal nervously, "I don't mean any disrespect, but are there really any male Jynx?" The newlywed Kirlia expected that Cheryl would react with hostility at such a bizarre question. Instead, Cheryl merely smiled and started to giggle while her gentle gaze fell on Crystal.
"You may remember that we Jynx are very few in numbers, right?" asked Cheryl with a gentle voice.
"Yes. That's right," replied Crystal, feeling relieved from Cheryl's calm and cheerful demeanor.
"Well, I've heard about male Jynx before, but I don't know anyone who has actually seen one. I don't think a male Pokémon of my species would be any more unusual than a male Gardevoir or Kirlia," explained Cheryl, "Though extremely unlikely, I think Michael is a good example that such a thing could be possible."
"Heh! Don't even get me started on the… 'Elusive' female Mr. Mime!" laughed Asmodeus with the rest of the dinner party soon erupting into laughter as well. The night was moving on and after several more minutes, Asmodeus decided that now was a good time to have a very serious talk with Gremlin and Crystal. The R-25s came into the dining room to clear the table of the many dishes, glasses, goblets and silverware.
"Now that everyone has finished dessert, I think we all had best get down to business," said Asmodeus in a much more serious tone of voice as he turned and fixed his gemstone eyes upon Crystal, "My dear, I need to confirm a few things with you. Do not be afraid, Crystal, just tell me: did Gremlin tell you what was expected of marrying into his family? Did he mention the responsibilities you now have?" Crystal was stunned.
"Um… responsibilities…? Like what?" asked Crystal, nervousness abounding in her otherwise gentle voice. Asmodeus hung his head low and let out a heavy sigh. The next time he looked up, he turned his now very harsh gaze upon his oldest son, Gremlin.
"Confound it all, Gremlin!" snarled Asmodeus, "You let this sweet, loving Kirlia marry you without knowing what she must now deal with and what is expected of her?"
"Must have slipped his mind," said Crystal, her voice ripe with smoldering anger as she glared at her mate, "He actually forgot about our honeymoon, too." Gremlin laughed nervously and adjusted the collar of his shimmering wedding dress, knowing he was now in deep trouble. Asmodeus took a deep breath, letting his anger quickly subside.
"Crystal, I know you love Gremlin deeply," said a now very worried Asmodeus, "You understand that love alone is never enough for a successful marriage, am I right?"
"I understand that," said Crystal fearfully, "I hope I didn't do anything wrong… did I?"
"You've done nothing wrong, my dear," said Asmodeus, "But since Gremlin neglected to inform you of his ancestors' past and what you now must deal with, it looks like now is a good time for a story. Please relax and listen well, Crystal. What I am about to tell you is vital."
"Go ahead, Dad," said Crystal with determination, "I'm ready."
"Well, thank you for calling me 'Dad', my dear," said Asmodeus, smiling at the newlywed Kirlia, "That makes me feel a lot better. So, tell me, Crystal: do you know why Gremlin, Michael and I are much taller than regular Sableyes?" Crystal slowly swiveled her head back and forth in reply.
"Very well," said Asmodeus, "The reason my children and I are much taller and vastly more powerful than our shorter counterparts is because Gremlin, Michael and I are among the last of a rare race of Sableyes. We are known as Old Bloods and we are among the very few direct descendants of an order of royal guards. They served one of the most powerful ghost Pokémon who ever lived, known as Gengar the Great. Most importantly, Gengar was the ruler of a massive city of ghost Pokémon which is rumored to have been built within ten miles of where Alakaz now sits. This city was called Twilight, city of eternal dusk."
"I don't mean to interrupt, Dad," said Crystal hesitantly, "But what ever happened to that great city and why are there so few Sableyes left like you and your two sons?"
"I don't mind questions, my dear," said Asmodeus with a gentle tone of voice, "If fact, I was just about to get to that. You see, over 2,000 years ago, the murderous army known as the Blight besieged Twilight. Are you familiar with the Blight?"
"I've heard a lot about the Blight," said Crystal with a scowl on her face, "They were responsible for slaughtering millions of Pokémon and humans alike. In fact, they almost wiped out the entire royal family of Olympus in one day during the final battle of the Great Pokémon Wars."
"You know your history," remarked Asmodeus, "Very good, Crystal. Anyway, a few years before the final battle of the Pokémon Wars, the Blight, led by their murderous leader, a Kabutops known as Heavy Claw, managed to lay siege to Twilight. Heavy Claw intended to capture the many artifacts that Gengar the Great, as well as a multitude of alchemists and other artisans, had created over the centuries. Instead, Gengar hid the artifacts throughout the city in places the Blight would never find them or think to look. Sadly, Gengar would later be slain when the city walls were breached and the marauding army overran Twilight. Gremlin, Michael and my ancestors were Gengar's personal guards, known as The Order of Twining Shadows. They fought to the bitter end in a battle they had no real chance of winning. In the end, many of them fell to a beast wielding the legendary Black Pendant. In a brave, yet desperate move, the remaining members of the Order of Twining Shadows helped the surviving residents of the great city escape to safety by clearing a path through the enemy ranks. Sadly, even Gengar the Great was no match against the creature and was subsequently killed. For days, the Blight plundered the city, but they found very little that was of use or value. However, the Blight were not quite finished with the city of Twilight."
"But I thought ghost Pokémon could live forever and were impossible to kill," said Crystal with bewilderment.
"It is true that ghost Pokémon can practically live forever, but our kind can still be killed," said Asmodeus with a heavy sigh, "After discovering that his attack had yielded nothing, Heavy Claw came up with a new strategy to make an example of the city of eternal dusk. Since his plan to wipe out the inhabitants had failed, Heavy Claw decided to destroy the entire city so it could never again be settled or easily rebuilt. Fortunately, the city of Twilight was now completely abandoned by its former inhabitants. Though the grand city had been built on solid bedrock, Twilight sank into the desert sands for an unnatural earthquake, which had been created by several members of the Blight focusing their great powers together. As for the Order of the Twining Shadows, the few remaining members split up after making sure the survivors of Twilight were safe. To this day, the Order of the Twining Shadows still exists, but I fear that Gremlin, Michael, Cheryl and I may be the last of this ancient order. Our job now is to master the many arts which were thought to have been lost with Twilight, such as Ghost Forme, which is a combination of a language of runic symbols and alchemy, which can be used for various purposes. For example, the wedding rings which you, Crystal and Gremlin now wear, link your life forces together and the rings cannot be removed for any reason. They are the result of Ghost Forme. There is a menagerie of things Ghost Forme can do. Apparently, Gengar the Great used Ghost Forme himself to craft many of the artifacts that Heavy Claw and the Blight had tried so desperately to acquire."
"So, what is expected of me now that I am part of your family, Dad?" asked Crystal. Asmodeus merely smiled at Crystal and spoke with a gentle voice once again.
"First, do you have something on you which will keep you from evolving into a Gardevoir?" asked Asmodeus.
"I do!" replied Crystal enthusiastically, "This diamond pendant was given to me by Gremlin before our wedding. There is a small shard of an Everstone hidden behind the large gemstone."
"Ah!" said Asmodeus as he leaned over the table to get a closer look at Crystal's pendant, "I see runes on the gold surrounding the diamond… looks like they create a strong, unseen force to keep the pendant around your neck at all times."
"Right as usual, Dad," cackled Gremlin.
"Well, I'm glad to see that you thought of just about everything, Gremlin," said Asmodeus proudly, "As for you, Crystal: your responsibilities are not too difficult."
"First," said Cheryl with a friendly smile, "You and Gremlin are expected to have offspring in order to continue the bloodline of our family. Crystal, I am aware that your species has a tradition in which married couples wait until their tenth wedding anniversary before having children. Just enjoy being married until then. I am more than willing to wait to see my grandchildren." Crystal smiled, blushing and giggling. The thought of being a mother was very appealing.
"Second, it is up to Gremlin to teach you how to use Ghost Forme and other ancient arts for the purpose of defense," explained Asmodeus, "There are Pokémon out there who would love to wipe out what remains of our order. Even today, there are rumors going around that the Blight is yet again on the move. Their numbers are few these days and even after suffering a hideous defeat in the final Pokémon Wars battle, they continued on."
"I understand," said Crystal confidently.
"Wait a moment," said Gremlin as he stood up on his chair, "Father, are you sure there are no others of our kind left? What about grandpa and the rest of our extended family?"
"Gremlin, to be completely honest, I haven't heard from our other family members in decades. That is one reason why I sent you out on your own so early: just in case there really were Pokémon out there who were hunting down our family," said Asmodeus with dread, "My worst fears may be coming true. Gremlin, I have something else to tell you. It's very important." Gremlin nodded his head.
"I'm all ears," said Gremlin softly. Asmodeus cleared his throat and fixed his gaze on Gremlin.
"A few weeks ago, Cheryl, Michael and I came back to our home in the Gardev Forests to the north. The entire cottage and everything in it had been burned to the ground," said Asmodeus.
"Who would have done such a thing?" said a horrified Crystal.
"I'm not sure, but this I do know," said Asmodeus, "There were Kabutops tracks everywhere about the ruins of our home."
"You could have contacted me and told me you had lost your home," said Gremlin with sadness, "I'm sure I would have been able to help you, Mom and Michael."
"Maybe, maybe not," said Asmodeus, "The fact that our home was destroyed and I have been unable to contact anyone in our family for several years is troubling, nonetheless. Gremlin, Crystal: I don't mean to be an alarmist, but you both may be in danger."
"We're going to be on our way soon," said Cheryl with grief, "We have to find another home… somewhere…"
"Gremlin!" said Crystal with renewed enthusiasm, "I have an idea." Gremlin glanced at his wife.
"Well, please tell me," said Gremlin with a smile.
"Why don't we have our parents and Michael move to Olympus? I can't imagine a safer place than that," suggested Crystal. Asmodeus scratched his chin a few times.
"Would we be welcome in the Gardevoir city?" asked Asmodeus.
"I think so," said Crystal confidently, "King Glacian and Queen Gloria are very compassionate and understanding. I can't imagine them turning you away. Besides, Gremlin and I know them."
"So," said Asmodeus with a grin, "My son and his wife know a real king and queen… then I guess we would be welcomed."
"We should get going, dear," said Cheryl with concern, "Just getting out of Alakaz unnoticed is going to be difficult."
"I agree," said Asmodeus as he returned his gaze to Gremlin and Crystal, "Gremlin, Crystal: my dear son and daughter, I recommend that you be very careful and not linger in Alakaz long. If you feel safe here, I have no objections to you spending the rest of your honeymoon here. Nonetheless, you should return home immediately afterwards. I know K-1 and the other robots will protect you, but if the Blight really is hunting down what's left of our family, then you will be no match against them. I wish you both safety and happiness in the days ahead." With that, the five Pokémon stood up from the table and began to exchange hugs and goodbyes.
"Take good care, bro," said Michael, shaking his brother's hand a few times while Cheryl lovingly embraced Crystal.
"Best wishes to you, dear," said Cheryl sweetly. While Gremlin and Asmodeus said their goodbyes, Crystal told Cheryl where she and Gremlin lived in Olympus. Just as Asmodeus, Cheryl and Michael were about to set foot into the hallway and begin their trek out of the dance hall, Gremlin called to his father.
"Asmodeus, can I please speak with you?" asked Gremlin, "Alone?" Asmodeus turned towards his wife and younger son.
"Please wait in the hallway for me," asked Asmodeus.
"Crystal, I'll see you in our bedroom, okay?" requested Gremlin with a bright smile. Crystal giggled while she walked up to Gremlin and quickly kissed him on his lips.
"I'll be waiting," said Crystal, blushing with a blissful smile on her face as she took one last look at her new family members, "Asmodeus, Cheryl and Michael: please be safe out there and I hope we see each other again soon." Once Crystal was in the bedroom and while Cheryl and Michael waited in a nearby hallway, Gremlin spoke quietly with his father.
"Do you really think Crystal and I are in danger?" asked a worried Gremlin, "Do you think we should leave here at once?"
"I'm glad to see how much you love and care for your wife," said Asmodeus, smiling at his son, "I think you and Crystal will be fine here, so long as you do not tarry for long."
"We'll be careful," said Gremlin, "I promise."
"Good," said Asmodeus with joy as he stepped forward and wrapped his arms around his son, "Enjoy your honeymoon, my son. Congratulations to you on your marriage."
"Thanks, Dad," said Gremlin softly. As Asmodeus let go of his son and started on his way back to his family, Gremlin had to ask his father one last question.
"Dad…?" asked Gremlin with great hesitation, "What makes you think my wife and I might be in jeopardy?" Asmodeus stopped in his tracks and slowly turned to face his son. The old Sableye took a deep breath.
"Because I sensed something… like an omen as my family and I entered this old theater earlier this afternoon," said Asmodeus, "You mentioned you have a Kabutops as a dear friend. What was his name… Simon?" Gremlin nodded his head.
"You had best speak with him about the Blight," warned Asmodeus, "I've heard of him. Some Pokémon have called him the Hunted One. I have also heard rumors about a small surviving group of the Blight planning something huge in the Gardev Region. Keep your wife close and keep her safe, Gremlin. Lay low and if you have any reason to believe you, Crystal or your robotic friends are in danger, than leave Alakaz at once. Goodbye, my son. I love you and please be on the lookout." Once Asmodeus, Cheryl and Michael were on their way, Gremlin made sure that every door and window in the theater was locked before heading to his bedroom for the night. When he opened the door, he saw Crystal: wearing her beautiful wedding attire and lying on the bed with a blissful smile on her face. The young Kirlia giggled and motioned with her right hand for Gremlin to come closer.
"Hello, honey," said Crystal sweetly, "Care to lie down with me?" Gremlin locked the bedroom door and walked towards his delighted wife. Crystal sat up in bed, wondering why her husband seemed to be so worried.
"Is something wrong, dear?" asked a worried Crystal.
"I'm… I'm just worried about what might happen if we have to fend off a bunch of murderous Pokémon," admitted Gremlin, "I wonder if we really should stay here."
"Come on, dear," said Crystal, a bright smile on her face as she stroked her husband's side of the bed, "I don't feel like we're in any danger. I am a psychic Pokémon, remember?"
"I remember," said Gremlin as he sat down on the bed. Crystal giggled as she came up behind her mate and tightly wrapped her arms around her handsome Sableye.
"Gremlin, I feel completely safe around you," whispered Crystal, "I love you and I know you would never let anything bad happen to me. Don't forget, I can protect you as well. I love you…" Gremlin looked over his left shoulder and took a nice long gaze at his beautiful wife. He slowly turned about and lay down next to Crystal: coming face to face with her as they wrapped their arms around each other in a passionate embrace.
"I love you, too… my lovely ballerina princess…" said Gremlin with a tender voice just before he and Crystal kissed once again. Gremlin found himself comforted by his wife's gentle words and her very presence. He now knew both he and Crystal would indeed have a good night's sleep and have yet another day and night to enjoy together. Still, he couldn't help but wonder what awaited them in the coming days.