The Enigma Chronicles: Sedition

by Rocketlord6485

When the Brethren Kingdoms are divided by civil war, Sir Aaron and his fellow Aura Guardians must band together to snuff out the treason and find a peaceful resolution before the world as they know it falls to an ancient evil. Set within the the Giovanni Chronicles continuity. CAN BE READ AS A STAND ALONE!

4. A Breath of Conspiracy

(A/N: King Eldar was already introduced in the first chapter, but he'll be appearing again in this entry, this time with a bit more personality. For the most invigorating experience, try and imagine him with Severus Snape's voice and accent :D

And speaking of accents and dialogue; to give the atmosphere of the story a more olden-European feel, most of the minor characters in the story will be given a strong medieval dialect, while the main characters will only have slight hints of such. And about accents: overall, practically every character in the story does possess an actual Old English accent, with the exception of Aaron and Lucario. This is mainly due to the fact these two spoke very modernly in the movie, both in speech and style. Anyhow, just wanted to clear that up.)

The Enigma Chronicles - Sedition

Chapter 4: A Breath of Conspiracy

Located far east of Rota, the Emerald Kingdom was a sprawling dominion of vast mystique. It was once controlled by a powerful green dragon named Rayquaza, but had since been transformed into a peacefully inhabited kingdom, belonging to the guardian collective that represented ALL aspects of Aura. The northeast portion of the kingdom was covered by a vast forest, with many small human settlements along the edge. Along the coast ran a wide mountain chain known as the Iron Vein that extended west into the neighboring Kingdom of Aaron's residence.

Spurring through the ozone gasses that domed the area, Aaron and Pidgeot surveyed the palace gates from up above, unable to espy the source of the distress call that Kota had sent. All he could see were scattering locals scurrying through the beryl-jeweled footpaths of the city, just like always. Nevertheless, he began his disembark the at castle gates, taking a fine look at the spic and span empire as he did so.

The kingdom's occupants, commoners and royal knights alike, adorned chromium-green finery garments in conformity with the kingdom's signature colors. And the crystal structures that riddled the domain also beared the same chroma, each one giving off a mystic green aroma capable of remedying any disease. Because of this, the kingdom was the most the sanitary and aseptic regency in the land, which made it an exemplary allurement to an abundance of different Pokémon species, specifically the spore-type.

However, the lack of guardian presence seemed heavy. A powerful quantum of the kingdom's defenses seemed to be missing, as far as Aaron could sense through his abilities. "Kota.", He thought to himself, glancing back at his Pokémon. "Pidgeot, I'll signal you when I'm ready to leave."

The feathered Pokémon nodded and took off towards the castle entrance, which moreso beared the appearance of a temple complex, rather than the traditional castle. It was a wonderful example of what insanity and wealth could achieve. It was built to giant proportions, designed to make everyone inside feel tiny.

Aaron exhaled and made his way into the fasthold, immediately greeted by the castle interior's equally majestic atmosphere. The space was circular yet the distance was so great that a person entering one end of the hall would not be able to see the other side. The ceiling was supported by numerous tiers of wide wooden columns that stretched upwards out of sight. Everything was decorated in ornate designs, and the emerald texture was similar to the exterior. Aaron absorbed the sights like a sponge; he always enjoyed the area's dazzling scenery. Sure, it was a bit too dazzling for HIS taste, especially considering that he was a frequent visitor always dressed in blue, but it was nonetheless a stellar spectacle that reminded him just how well refined the kingdom was in its natural design.

The castle was crawling with student Aura Users, as well as members of Queen Ida's family and Royal Guard, not to mention an abundance of house-pet Pokémon. There were many servants, and each one that approached him was different. The only time he saw the same servant was either in the castle's dining quarters or the queen's throne room. The servants seemed to be a tad disorganized, but Aaron couldn't blame them; the castle was HUGE. Sometimes, it would take even him a day or two to find his way if it weren't for the well-trained escorts to guide him.

At that moment, a voice called to him by his nickname. "Hey! How's it going, Ace!"

Aaron heard the familiar male voice call from somewhere overhead and looked up. He smiled as he squinted for a better look. "Pondo?"

The person who spoke was a young brunette man, Aaron's closest associate in all specificness. He wore a skintight, black, high-collared shirt with two intersecting red straps over it and a tan hakama. His left arm was covered in brown and gold armor. He wore a gold crest on the sash of his trousers. In his hands, he carried a genuine staff, nearly identical to Aaron's but with a green crystal, not blue, on the tip of the sheath.

Aaron chuckled. "Are you going to just stand there and leave me isolated?"

With much enthusiasm, Pondo hurried down the stairs to meet with Aaron. He greeted his friend with a welcoming hug, though because of his bulk and brawny build, it was more of lung-crushing embrace. Ironically, in spite of his obvious athletic physique, he was a master practitioner in the arts of Black Magic, an unofficial Offensive Control usage of Aura, so he only rarely participated in physical combat.

"Honestly, you're making me look bad!", Aaron chuckled as he struggled to catch his breath. "I'm out training every day with every fiber and muscle, all while you sit back and practice your little spells... and yet somehow you manage to be in better shape than I!"

Pondo rubbed the back of his neck and shrugged. "Looks can be intimidating, you know. Sometimes it saves me the greater trouble of even having to use my magic." After an exchange of laughter, Pondo stood before his better, eying him with expectancy. "So... you missed the valediction this morning."

Aaron arched a brow. "Valediction?"

"Master Kota's sendoff.", Yawned the younger but heftier guardian as he stretched his arms. "And let me say, he was pretty upset when he learned that you weren't here to see him off with the rest of the kingdom."

"He... didn't give me fair warning.", He added a minute later as an afterthought.

Pondo sighed. "I take it you didn't hear the signal horn?"

"I did...", Started Aaron, remembering back to his earlier audience with Lady Rin. "But I was delayed..."

The bigger man snickered to himself, grumbling: "Well, what else is new?" As Aaron's closest comrade, he was typically up to date with all of Aaron's quirky tendencies. But then again, he had so many of his own. "Kota always did think of you as his favorite student, Ace.", He quickly spurred forth the discussion. "Kind of a let down that you were no-show today."

Aaron couldn't help but roll his eyes. "You know, shockingly, this isn't making me feel any better on the subject."

Again, Pondo laughed, this time giving him a firm but friendly slap to the Aaron's spine. "Aww, don't feel so abjected, Ace! It's not like this is the first time you've messed up."

"Still not helping, Pondo!"

"I jest, of course!" Glancing back towards the balcony, Pondo frowned a bit. And it was clearly apparent when he returned to face Aaron. "By the way, the queen wishes to speak with you."

That wasn't pleasant news. He had always known Queen Ida to be a friendly and somewhat eccentric ruler. But she knew when to put her foot down. And that's what concerned him. "Is SHE intent on scolding me, as well?"

"Not my place to say, my friend.", Pondo exhaled in one lethargic breath.

Aaron nodded, staring at the castle floor in momentary thought. "Alright, then." He raised his gaze to his friend and patted him on the shoulder with a tender smile. "Don't wait up for me, Pondo." With that, he hurried up the stairs and vanished.

"Right! As if I've got nothing better to do!", Pondo yelled up to him!

…...

Aaron pushed through the colossal double doors and into Queen Ida's throne room, the most lavish area in the entire castle; the polished white marble and gold with white columns decorated with green and gold tapestries.

On the far end of the royal domain was the ruler of Emerald Kingdom herself, who slept slouched in her throne. Sponsoring stately events and functions often wore her down, so she tended to nap quite frequently in her spare time.

Aaron quietly approached his slumbering consort, reveled by the old woman's appearance in that moment. Her chestnut brown hair was up in its bun and was streaked with white. She also had some wrinkles on her face, but the overall effect showed she was aging gracefully. Only rarely did he meet with her in private... so it was heartening to clearly perceive just how well she was holding up.

Queen Ida fidgeted in her royal seat, a loud and obnoxious snore escaping her nostrils!

Aaron chortled softly and walked up to the regally dressed queen. "Queen Ida...", He whispered into the woman's ear, nudging her with an extended arm. "Your majesty, I'm here... just as you requested!"

The aged woman slowly roused and blinked at the Cameran Knight, whom stood in front of her with a large grin. She rubbed her eyes and assumed her regal posture. "Marry! Confound it, Aaron... I was just in the midst of a most delectable dream." She glanced to her side, noticing the empty space where a second throne once sojourned on the honor of her late husband. "I was... with King Stephan again..."

Aaron frowned. "I apologize, your highness. I was told you had requested my presence."

Shaking off her daze, Ida glanced back at Aaron and nodded with a sigh. "Indeed, I did.", Was her amused response. The plump woman slowly stood from her throne and walked to the left of the tall knight, gently putting a hand to his arm. "You weren't at the ceremony this morning to bid farewell to thy master."

He beared no response. Sure, her tone was soft and sweet in a moment of verbal punishment... but still somewhat ashamed. He could admit to his reckless habits. But he wished for her to know that he'd never purposely dishonor his elders.

"Emerald Kingdom may not be thy abode.", She reminded him. "But it IS where thine allegiances lie. "

He nodded and lowered his head in shame. "I have no excuse for my delay, your majesty.", He whispered. "Once Kota returns, I'll be sure to offer my sincerest apologies to him."

Ida gave him a long, fixed stare. And upon finding that heart was in the right place, she smiled and turned back towards her throne. "Well, what's wrought is wrought. I could never stay angry with thee, Aaron. You know that. You have always been the fresh of breath air around here. I'd act the same way... but let's face it. I'm not getting any younger."

Aaron chuckled as he helped the stout, old woman climb up onto her throne. "You honor me, your majesty."

"So formal!" The affection in her voice had so suddenly and dramatically altered. Her admiring gaze fazed to that of a loving grandmother. "You remind me of thy father. He was so kind and well-meaning, but not without his sauntering quirks." They chuckled together. And when she noticed him blush, she levered a finger to him. "You look just like him. You act just like him. You serve just like him."

Naturally, Aaron couldn't help but protest. "My father was not an Aura Guardian."

Ida gave a dismissive shake of the head. "Oh, nay! Heavens nay!", She laughed. "But... lest we not forget, he was the bravest and most chivalrous knight in the land, always striving to keep the peace amongst the brethren kingdoms." Fond memories seemed to race through the queen's mind at the moment. And on top of that, it made her all the more compassionate towards the legacy's knight of the light.

And Aaron was flattered. She didn't need to say a word more for him to acknowledge it. "Well... I'm proud to carry his mantle, your highness."

"You should be.", She spoke firmly as she brushed her emerald green dress. "But you need to work on improving thy sense of agenda. No more delaying when following orders, henceforth." Her gaze elevated to his own again. "Is that understood?"

Again, he nodded. "It won't happen again. I'll accept the consequences once Kota returns."

"Oh, don't be silly!", She answered with another humorous chuckle. "Believe it or not, Kota can be a big softy! You just need an eloquent approach when sorting things out. A sob-story would suffice."

Aaron raised a brow. "You... want me to lie?"

"Trow of it as... stretching the truth." The corners of her wrinkled lips hatched a knowing smile. "We both know you can't afford to land yourself on Kota's bad side anymore than you already have."

While Aaron wanted to agree with her, he tried his best not to, given his position as Kota's most efficient student. "Aura Guardians... don't really have bad sides.", He struggled with managing his own words, scratching the back of his neck while attempting to voice his point of view. "We're just... strictly conventional."

This time, her own brow rose, and she mimicked him mockingly. "You? Conventional?"

He laughed. Admittedly, that was hard to argue with. "Well... maybe I'm not the best example."

She forced an even wider grin. "Of course not. You are a special case. You always have been. You are a very unique person, Aaron." There was a tense silence as Ida came to an extensive pause. "And... that is why I require thee to be on thy toes until the storm hath blown over..."

"Storm?" His breath hitched just slightly. Questions were beginning to form in his head. "What do you mean?"

Ida leaned back in her chair, her response somewhat hesitating. "Why, you do know where Kota ventured off too, don't you?"

"Cardinal Kingdom.", He shotly replied. "A few days earlier, he mentioned something about paying a visit to one of his former pupils."

"Yay... AND nay." Ida gestured for the brave knight to lean hither. Once he had done so, she brought her lips to his ear, speaking in a hushed tonation. "Aaron, there hath been whispers of a disturbance transpiring inside the palace walls of Cardinal Kingdom."

Aaron's eyes widened at the mention of the distant land. "D-disturbance?"

She nodded. "Yay. Rumors of violence and unrest."

Aaron shook his head, refusing to accept this as fact. The very notion seemed preposterous. While Cardinal Kingdom wasn't the most conventional kingdom in the land, it was still most certainly expected to maintain its customs and provinces like any other kingdom by accordance of the Brethren Court.

"Apparently, the guardians of Cardinal Kingdom art not taking any action to subdue this so called rebellion.", She further detailed, much to his sense of betrayal. "Out of concern, I sent Kota to investigate the area... and to speak personally with thine fellow scholar, whom now upholds Cardinal Kingdom's laws and customs, under King Eldar's instruction. He is the captain of Eldar's Royal Guard, after all."

"Zinten.", Aaron spoke the name of the man she was referring to. He remembered the troubled, hotheaded youth as another one of Kota' apprentices years ago, one of Cho'moken descent. And just like himself, Zinten did not belong to Kota and Ida's empire, despite being trained in their regiment. He hailed from Cardinal Kingdom, which was the most obsolete dominion in the lands, and he was another one of Kota's gifted pupils. However, he initially fell short of certain... qualifications that were required to meet the rank of a Master Aura Guardian. "Zinten never fell in line with Kota's expectations. He always thought of himself as superior to myself and the other students, not to mention Kota himself. How he managed to meet the rank of master is beyond my knowledge. I always assumed Kota had somehow found a way to put him in his place. But... if these rumors are true, that apparently wouldn't be the case."

Ida nodded in agreement. "My own thoughts, exactly."

Yet Aaron remained disillusioned by his master's failure to warn him of the danger. Lifting his head, he looked at the elderly queen dead in the eye, holding a suspecting gaze. "Why didn't Master Kota inform me of his intentions before he left?"

Ida merely shrugged. "Well... I assumed he did, given that you are his favorite pupil, not to mention a most able Aura Guardian."

Aaron stood tall, a frown apparent on his face as he considered an upsetting possibility. "Was it... that he couldn't trust me with the truth?" He had been rather reckless lately, so perhaps he wasn't deserving of such crucial knowledge.

"We do not know what's truth and what's fable, at least not yet.", Reminded the wise ruler. "The only ones aware of Kota's mission to the southern mountains is the Guardian Council and myself. Our people might fall into panic if word of these rumors were to spill into our peaceful kingdom." Leaning forward in her seat, she placed a trusting hand on Aaron's right shoulder. "So, please, keep this information to thyself if you could."

"Of course, your highness." Returning a smile, he bowed before her and started for the antechamber behind him. "I'd better be going."

But an abrupt summon of the queen had caught him off guard. "Oh, Aaron?"

He stopped and slowly rotated towards her. Was there... more?

She grinned that wide and knowing grin. "How is Queen Rin nowadays?"

He certainly wasn't expecting that question. Nevertheless, he answered casually. "Just fine, madame. Why do you ask?"

"Why, tis only adequate I check in with my future daughter!"

He froze up at those words. His receptiveness was more vulnerable than ever. "D-daughter?"

"My son, the duke, is to wed Lady Rin in a matter of months." She spoke this as if it were an outdated tiding. "Were you not aware? It was, after all, arranged by Rin's late father many-a-year ago."

He chuckled slightly in his faltered attempt to hide his confoundment. "I-I suppose I just forgot."

"You seem... bothered by it.", She noted. But deep down, it was no surprise to her that Aaron harbored benevolent regard for his dear Queen Rin. That was what made him such a unique Aura Guardian. Emotions only seemed to define and strengthen his overall character, not damage it. And she knew this.

"Me? Bothered?", He played dumb with her. "Not a chance, madame. With all do respect, I have no interest in such junctures. I only live to serve my purpose as an Aura Guardian." With that, he spared another gracious bow and quickly fleeted from the throne room.

"If you say so...", The elderly queen chided under her breath after he had all but left.

…...

Deadwater Village, a run-down fringe located on the outskirts of the Cardinal Kingdom townsville, directly on the outer edge of the Lunan Volcano, fell into view as a cloaked horseman rode into town on his trusty three-headed fowl, Dodrio. The heat was gruesome. The visuals were dearth and drought. The scents were unseemly. But the mysterious visitor held his sights to the towering castle that sat at the foot of the Lunan Mountains' one and only volcano. He then looked on to the village -its inhabitants suspiciously quiet as he passed through- and then to the barren conditions of the dwelling itself.

While most of the town was built on the rigid cliffs rising high above the neighboring ocean's waves, there were a few houses and docks constructed at the bottom of the cliff, serving as one of the harbors supplying the necessary goods from distant islands. As farming was a rare profession in the volcanic kingdom, the importance of its harbors grew exponentially with the increase of the population and a lot of effort was put in the expansion of these makeshift docks in order to make trade with the overseas vikings.

From the distance, Kota spotted the palace gates and spurred onwards through the barren and chiseled grounds of the crater fields that forthed beyond the kingdom's native village. Here, an abundance of wild Magmar and Rhyhorn grazed, though Kota payed no mind. He kept his eyes leveled towards the palace. However, about halfway across the lifeless terrain, he was met by a cavalry of knights in rouge-colored garbs, each approaching sattled atop a Rapidash. "Halt!"

Kota gently pulled on the harness of his Pokémon, bringing his tri-headed fowl to an immediate still before the knights. He stroked each head of his Dodrio as a gesture to help demonstrate a tranquil demeanor. Afterward, he removed his brown hood, revealing his distinct and thickly expressive identity to the Cardinal warriors.

"S-sir Kota!", The consul of the armed cavaliers recognized the somber and rigorous face of Emerald Kingdom's general. "Tis an honor, sir!"

Kota waved off the pleasantries and cut straight to point. "I've come from afar to speak with your captain, Master Zinten."

The consul gulped nervously, which only heightened the Aura Guardian's suspicions. "Well, sir, I dost not think we can-"

"Oh? What's the matter? Bad timing, gentleman?" He gave the cavalry a patient but all knowing smile, then levered his finger towards the castle banked at the volcano's slope. "If I must, I'll breach through the palace myself to speak with him-"

"That won't be necessary.", A heavy and strained voice called out to him from beyond the cluster of knights "Because he's already here." The knights parted at the center of their formation, clearing a path for Captain Zinten himself to make his entrance. He rode in on his trusty Arcanine, ignoring the menacing growls his own Pokémon was relaying to both Kota and Dodrio.

Kota dismissed the threatening presence, glancing up at his old student with a slight scowl evident on his features. "It's been quite some time, my old student."

The glowering man situated atop the volcanic canine was just as Kota remembered him; a muscular young warrior with wavy brown hair and black eyes. He wore a grey tunic over a high-collared, long-sleeved black shirt, and sported a black belt with a gold buckle around his waist, over the tunic. His trousers were dark grey and he wore knee-high, black boots. A long, crimson-red cape draped over his broad shoulders, fastened by the golden pin with the markings of his heir.

"Our apologies, Captain Zinten!", The consul of the royal horsemen stuttered before his superior. "W-we didn't know what to-"

"I can handle this. Stand down.", The young dignitary bitterly commanded his soldiers without ever swaying his gaze from Kota's. Once his league of knights had obligingly dispersed, Zinten initiated his former master with a swift and nasty query. "Why have you come, Kota?"

Kota held his Pokémon steady, replying to Zinten on cue. "Word is spreading fast of unsettling rumors regarding the condition of your kingdom's people."

"Nonsense.", The younger guardian snarled. "Our kingdom is in its prime."

Kota raised a brow. "Are you quite certain, captain?"

"Why would King Eldar bestow upon me the task of maintaining order among his people if I weren't certain of how to do so." When Kota failed to immediately utter his response, Zinten advanced his verbal assault. "You're wasting my time here, Kota."

The rude tone in Zinten's odious voice did not settle well with Kota. "You shall address me as Master Kota, young one." He moved in closer with a wagging finger. "You forget your place."

At that, Zinten clenched his fists and gritted his teeth together. "I am just as much a master as much as you are now. And this is MY kingdom to protect... so I suggest you and your foolish accusations be on your way before you do bring any REAL harm to my people. Clearly, YOU'RE the one with the problem!"

Kota sighed and shook his head in disappointment. "Still as graceless as ever, I see."

"Do not chide me, Kota!", Growled Zinten! "You're trying my patience!" He was just barely managing to keep his full-on anger suppressed. If his old master were to discover anything too inordinate in his behavior, he'd likely be forced to relinquish his title as Aura Guardian by order of the Brethren Court. And he simply couldn't afford to accept such an immense setback at such a vital time. King Eldar needed him intact.

Kota remained silent and waiting.

Finally, Zinten feigned a sense of composure, and slowly eased a promising succor from his mouth. "Cardinal Kingdom has and always will be a dominion of peace. You have my word as a fellow Aura Guardian."

"That's not very reassuring." Beside from that, Kota could see right through Zinten's mask; he could sense the young man's withering patience by peering into his Aura.

And when Zinten realized this, he resorted to a more appalling measure. "Then you have my trust as your former apprentice."

Kota froze for a moment... and then nodded, though his eyes still seemed ever so alert. "So be it..." For now, he'd have to accept his fellow Aura Guardian's oath on the grounds of their student-teacher relationship. Putting up anymore of an argument would have led to the drawing of weapons. He wasn't ready for that. Not yet, anyway.

Zinten and Arcanine remained poised in their watchful bearings, looking on to Kota as he and his Dodrio rode off into the distance, back in the direction from whence they came.

…...

But Kota's second detour through Deadwater Village proved more benign than his first arrival; rather than receiving another scourge of scowls and suspecting glares, the Emerald Kingdom General was engaged directly by the local society.

"Pray pardon!" A short, old woman with a boiled face stumbled in front of he and his Dodrio, puffing and snorting in an involuntary consistency. "Dost thou knowest the time, Master Guardian?"

Kota frowned, unamused. He raised his finger to the darkening horizon. "The sun has set, old woman. You can see that as clearly as I can."

The old woman nodded... and hobbled to his side, this time speaking in an urgent tone. "I bid thee query of a more... stressing subject matter, to be truthful.", She said, her eyes cautiously shifting from left to right, ensuring that the other villagers were not eavesdropping. "I dare not speak aloud of my personal convictions."

He understood in full confidence; she withheld the information vital to him. But given her indirectness, he needed further convincing. "Out with it then. And dispense the formalities."

But she seemed just as envious as he. "Might I beseech why thou have traveled this far, sir?"

"This is a private affair only, I'm afraid.", He spoke loudly.

"Concerning the mayhap that's shaping inside the palace walls?" Those words spelt all for his aching knowledge. And she didn't stop there. "I assure thee, tis spread throughout the entirety of the kingdom!"

He gave a grateful nod, eager to know the truth behind these rumors. "Pray tell, if you'd please."

The old woman elevated her bony pointer finger to the grazing Magmar in the distant village outskirts. "Those rampant, spitfire savages hath been raiding our village day and night ever since we've been left to fend for ourselves.", She snorted. "The Aura Guardians of these wastelands were the only ones apt of controlling those volcanic demons! But alas, they've all but abandoned us, decreeing that we must fight on our own for what we desire, all so in order to strengthen ourselves!"

"I see..." At last, his suspicions were proving correct. And by intuition of his senses to her vastly inferior Aura, this old shrew was most definitely confessing the truth, which meant that Zinten had lied to in their earlier exchange! "I'll have to deliver this news to the council if any course of action is to be taken..."

"Tis the least of our worries.", She continued on! "I durst hear things are much worse inside the main townsville."

Naturally, he maintained his composure, despite these shocking revelations. He nodded to the peasant woman and managed a meager but well-meaning smile. "In that case, you can expect my return in due time. But stay indoors until then, if possible." Pulling on the harness of his Dodrio, Kota rode off into the mountains, but not before bidding the old beggar woman a farewell. "Adieu, my good lady."

…...

That night, his majesty, King Eldar, broke off from the servants of his private chamber and walked out onto his personal terrace, which provided a lush and resplendent view of his volcanic kingdom. He turned around and gestured with two fingers for his aide to follow, where a small round table sat with two chairs on either side. He quietly seated himself, watching as his royal serf spread out the tablecloth and set in front of him a hot chalice of barley tea.

The serf bowed before his master. "Might I fetch thee anything else, sire?"

"No, that will be all. Thank you, squire." With that, he dismissed his serf, along with the others stationed inside his chamber. He sat attentively at the small table, pouring some honey into his tea and mixing the brown liquid with his tiny spoon. And as he sipped, his eyes glanced up to the dazzling moonlight that shone down upon him, his golden beard now shimmering in the aglow.

Eldar had always hated the moon, preferring it shadowed by the darkness of the sky. It was the sort of thing that looked pure when one first set eyes on it, but not long after, one would begin to realize that it was anything but. Just like the world around him, he supposed – most fools would take years to understand what the world was really like. But not him. He knew already. And in due time, he'd act on it.

An unbelievably silent breeze from behind seemed to faze him, however. He looked up from his tea. And his expressionless demeanor turned to a gleaming smile when he detected a deathly silent approach from the rear. "So?", His calm and eloquent tone jumped an octave. He didn't even bother to turn around. He simply sat there, stirring his tea. "How did your unexpected reunion appoint?"

At the initiative, Zinten appeared from the shadows, his heated face now visible in the overhead starlight. "Kota is growing suspicious. Too suspicious." His breath was labored and angry, especially in speech. He was pacing back and forth as he voiced his rage. "Curse him! I should have known that he, of all people, would be the first to truly catch sight of my plans."

"Don't act so appalled.", Replied Eldar as he gestured for Zinten to take the seat across from him. Once he had done so, Eldar sipped from his chalice and looked the captain dead in the eye. "The Aura Guardians of the outlying kingdoms are just as insightful as you and your own legion of guardians, Zinten. If anything, you should have foreseen your old master's interference."

For a moment, Zinten glanced off towards the view of the vastness of the kingdom, his words issuing in mumbles. "I try not to think of him too often. It only irritates me."

Eldar ceased his stirring and raised a curious brow. "And exactly how is that a bad thing?"

Biting his lip, Zinten nodded. "As a guardian, I'm entitled to a code. I must keep restraint over my emotions... especially the darker ones."

"Did Kota teach you that?"

"Y-yes..." He looked to the terrace floor, his mind racing with questions and self-doubt. He knew Eldar was right. Why follow the orders and customs of someone he had grown to loathe so passionately? "I'm no hypocrite..."

The focused king blinked a couple of times and then sighed. "Kota, along with the other guardians scattered beyond our kingdom, are blind to the capabilities of a power they live in fear of."

"Yes, sire.", Zinten yielded almost immediately, though his thoughts still scattered about an unsure realm of idealism. "You're right. I've always known I was stronger than the others... and that I could use my power to serve a greater purpose, one of change! But... in doing so, I've been allowing my Aura to succumb to my hatred."

Eldar smiled and gently set his tea onto the table. He rose from his chair, inciting Zinten to do the same, and clasped the larger but younger man's shoulder with a firm grasp. "You're doing a kindness by redefining what an Aura Guardian truly is.", He said with such a sweetness in his tone. "I myself may not be a wielder of the inner magic. But I've enough common sense to know what's right for the Brethren Kingdoms." He tapped the captain's armored chest with an extended finger, giving him a reminding look. "You've felt those same compulsions, directly through you're Aura and all that you influence with it."

He truthfully seemed to be considering Eldar's words with a more serious and efficient focus, his brow furrowing; eyes narrowing; fists squeezing and clenching ever so impatiently. Oh, how he so desperately wanted to make his move against Kota and the other guardians! To demonstrate his predominance, along with all the power he possessed!

And Eldar could see the emotions rippling through the vernal man. It brought a delightful smirk to his lips. With his open arm, he gestured to their enormous kingdom forked before the terrace. "Your uprising will inspire guardians across the lands to never answer to a higher power... and that they can be free to conduct their own lives, as well their own abilities. Kota and his council live by feckless codes they label as morals... when they themselves are entitled to all the power in the lands."

Zinten nodded, growing more and more aware of the danger!

"If you don't realize it now, then one day... Kota might.", The conniving king hissed. "And by misguided honor of chivalry, he will not hesitate to smite you, Zinten."

At that, Zinten lost all control! "I wouldn't dare let that wretched knave lay a finger on me nor any of my people!", He roared to the heavens!

"We are segregated from the other kingdoms, so we cannot cleary predict whatever schemes they might concoct." Eldar spun towards the balcony palings, his eyes now tracing the outer limits of his dominion. He hushedly reminded: "If we hesitate to demonstrate our status as the superior empire, then WE'LL be the ones who crumble underneath the kingdom that one day shan't! And Kota, being as domineering and ambitious as he is, just may be the first to strike." He turned his head to the fuming captain again. His gaze was heavy and instructing. "We must never let our guard down, Zinten. Use your Aura to the best of its ability, even if it means defying the rules of your corrupt order."

Anger, hate, lust, jealousy… all these emotions were evident in those large fiery-red eyes of Zinten's. And yet he never felt so empowered! Every word spoken from Eldar made him more and more desirous to unleash his true power upon those deserving of perishing under it!

"If we aren't the first to act, someone else WILL . . . and our undoing will follow.", Continued the stern-browed king. "It is high time Cardinal Kingdom be recognized as the foremost empire in the land." Again, he brought his eyes to his apostle, extending a hand to him in a symbolic request for obedience. "Zinten... I can't do this without you. And nor you without I. Let's bring true order to our people. Uprisings. Revolutions. Unrest. All shall be necessary to prove that our kingdom stands as a forcible threat against those who dare regiment us."

"Yes, sire.", Obliged Zinten. Without hesitation, he dropped to his knees, bowing to the feet of his wise leader. "I will show no fear... no mercy... no hesitation. The Aura will not fail me. Instead, it will transform into its more effective pendant. The Umbra."

Eldar rubbed his chin, smiling. "You refer to the legend-"

"Yes." Zinten picked himself up off the ground and explained. His tone had assumed an eerily violent distinction. "It will not take charge of me. Instead, I shall be the one in full control. I've mastered Aura. And I'm not afraid to take it another step further than that! And in doing so, Kota will fall to his deserving shame and realize that his teachings were naught more than worthless jokes compared to the TRUE power of Aura!"

"I have faith in you, captain." He moved closer to Zinten and treated him to a tender smile. "And I know you'll do what it takes to save our kingdom."

"Thank you, sire. I shan't fail you! You will not regret this!" Without another word, Zinten fervently strode off into castle chamber, leaving Eldar alone on the terrace.

The clever king glanced back towards the shapely spectacle of his kingdom... and smiled with malicious intent. "No, I don't believe I will...", He softly replied to Zinten's final bidding as if he were actually still present and listening. "Because by the time I'm finished with ALL of you, no one will be safe. And no Aura Guardian will ever stand in my way again."

...

Upon crossing the margin of Cardinal Kingdom and entering a more promising realm, Kota leapt off his Dodrio and hoisted his lance into the air, which spangled a glimmer from the tip of the pointed blade.

The guardian's beacon immediately summoned forth the ghostly form of Kota's faithful sleuth, Misdreavus. The spirit Pokémon circled around her master and his Dodrio, awaiting orders.

Kota folded his arms against his chest and stood with a look of severity. "I have a task for you."

"Misssdreeevous..." The ghost quickly ceased her repetitive movements and came to a still in front of Kota.

He held his finger towards the vague outlines of the dominion he had had just investigated. "I need you to survey the activities of the kingdom's palace and surrounding villages, unnoticed."

The ghost Pokémon's eyes widened in alarm. "Missssdreeevouss?"

"No, it is certainly not treason.", Sighed Kota with the shake of his head. "I'm but a humbly concerned confederate who's sending his Pokémon to pay a visit to our dear allies." Artfully, he smiled up at the spirit. "Is that so harmful?"

The ghost rolled her eyes and, without another peep, nodded to Kota in full obedience. There was no sense in scurrying out of this scheme, given her unbreakable allegiance to Kota after he had instructed her in the art of Aura, which had proven to be a laboring challenge due to her ghostly Type.

"Report back to me in the early morrow.", He instructed Misdreavus as he mounted his Dodrio. "And... do be cautious." With that, the two parted and went their separate ways.

...

The Cameran Palace courtyard was empty, except for the glistening crystals embedded in the ground and the heavy night air that felt almost stifling. Sir Aaron walked carefully across the cobble stone pathway that routed to the pond and royal fountains, each of his footfalls echoing between the large pillars that teemed about the reservoir.

He quietly took a seat at the edge of the center fount, feeling the water's cool mist lightly bristle his nerves and senses. Then, he tilted his head backward, looking up towards the light emanating from the highest room in castle's stair tower; this was Lady Rin's sleeping quarters. He was entirely still as he watched the silhouetted movements of her majesty through the lighted aperture above. And at that moment, he oh so wished he could hear her wonderfully angelic voice grace him pleasant dreams just as she would so many other nights before retiring to her chamber.

But without fully realizing it, his forbidden thoughts for the queen drifted to that of a memory. A memory with a distant reflection. And now, as he pained to imagine her majesty married and queen to Ida's son, his mind raced backwards in time to his first learning of the news.

FLASHBACK: Seven Years Prior

Upon securing the Cameran Castle antechamber, per the king and queen's orders, Fifteen-year-old Aaron, Aura Guardian in training, strolled his way out through the central tower's main chamber. But upon setting foot outside, he heard a multitude of distinct voices coming from the courtyard fountains. Quietly, he peered his head around the corner.

Afar, Princess Rin and her parents, the king and queen, were poised copiously before a redheaded young man in emerald robes, whom appeared to be only a little older than the princess of fourteen years. With a proud smile, the unfamiliar young man reached for Rin's hand and planted a kiss upon it.

While the lurking Aaron felt a slight sting inside from the sheer sight of the display, Rin herself seemed rather uninterested...but maintained her disposition.

Afterward, the boy proudly turned his back to the princess and marched out of the courtyard with an almost triumphant grin written on his visage.

Rin's parents politely escorted the boy from view, leaving the princess alone in the courtyard.

Aaron watched as the dejected princess took a seat at the edge of one of fountain's basins. With a heavy sigh, she removed her slippers and threw her legs over the ledge of the fountain so that her feet were now touching the water.

On behalf of her sorrow, however, Aaron swallowed his pride and approached her from behind. He cleared his throat and spoke. "Is everything alright, princess-"

Startled, Rin squealed and fell backward, landing at Aaron's feet.

Aaron instantly jumped back in terror! "Oh Legendaries! Princess Rin, I'm so sorry! I-I didn't mean to-"

"Aaron, tis quite alright!", She giggled from the ground. "It was a simple mistake."

At that, the young guardian gave a sigh of relief. "Oh... thank you..."

However, Rin was still flat on her back, her hand extended upward. "I... don't suppose you could help me up?"

"Oh, right!", He remembered! "Of course!" He rushed to her side and grabbed her hand. He pulled her to her feet and carefully sat her down at the ledge of the fountain. At her gesture, he took a seat beside her.

And as she brushed herself off, she couldn't help but quip: "You know, you could have just approached me when you were listening from the tower chamber."

His eyes widened. "You noticed me?"

"You may be an Aura Guardian... but you're not the best selector of hiding spots."

"I'm sorry.", He apologized, scratching the back of his head. "I was just... curious-"

"Of that boy I was conversing with?" She nodded to him and her eyes drifted to the passing clouds. "Prince Damien, the duke of Emerald Kingdom; a cheeky snot, if you ask me."

"Why is that?", Aaron asked. He hoped he wasn't being too nosy.

But Rin wasn't bothered. She answered with a shrewd and straightforward response. "He's a conceited oaf and he called me his hireling, as if I'm nothing more to him than a woman to fill the spot of his right-hand throne." Grumpily, she folded her arms over her chest and cringed. "Of all people, why must I marry HIM?"

"M-marry him?" Aaron's jaw had dropped. But he quickly tried to conceal it.

"Yes.", She replied in a weakened sigh. "I am to be Damien's wife on the day I turn twenty-one. My mother and father have already arranged for it." Her gaze fell from the sky all at once. Her deep sadness seemed more and more evident. "I've always dreamed of being the queen to man who could truly be there for me... and care for me... and protect me. But alas, tis not my destiny..."

"Then don't marry him!", He blurted out, instantly regretting he had. He should have been more articulate... but he didn't know how.

Rin looked from her twiddling fingers and up into his eyes in surprise. Her expression quickly changed to minuet curiosity when what he said sank in.

"Oh, I didn't mean that like-", He attempted to cover up for his outburst. "I was just... remembering to when you called him an oaf!"

"Oh…", She answered automatically; as if he was correct. "An oaf I'm being lawfully ordered to wed." But again, her gaze fell upon him again, this time with a reaching plea. "I'd much rather marry someone like you, Aaron."

He looked back at her in full astonishment. He felt some type of connection he shouldn't. "L-like me?"

"Of course." She nudged him, causing him to focus his eyes on her. "You're kind and cordial, with a heart that surely outmatches your Aura. And you're so sweet to me... and tis not just because I'm going to be the future queen of Rota. There's more to you... and I can see it. You're quite special... you have something other guardians don't. You have... emotion."

A soft chuckle came from him, causing her to look at him once again in shock. He quickly covered his mouth and coughed. As pleased as he was by her favoritism, he had shake the thought away. He just had to. There was no place for attachment in his life, according to Kota.

But she simply couldn't keep her eyes off him, which was a rude act to do indeed. Her mother would have been mortified if she saw her doing this. He was unmistakably good-looking, on account of all the young ladies in the kingdom that would typically ogle him. He was tall and had that handsome, gleaming face that she had come to adore, which would turn pinker and pinker the longer she stared. "You're blushing, Aaron.", She giggled softly, leaning in closer towards him.

He shifted nervously and gulped. "I never blush."

But she only dipped in closer to him, gazing deep into his eyes. "Oh, is that so? I thought Aura Guardians couldn't lie."

Aaron smiled sheepishly, his breath hitching! Gosh was he nervous. She was barely inches from his face now. Grasping for straws, he stuttered: "W-we don't! We're honest and noble peacekeepers!" His mouth was trembling. His eyes were almost watering. He knew this was wrong, and that Kota could easily excommunicate him for this type of forbidden interaction!

She opened her mouth in bewilderment and replied: "Then why can't you be honest at THIS very moment?" He looked like he was in despair, and she did not know why. She wanted to comfort him, even if they didn't not know each other all too well.

Finally, he answered. His features appeared numb. "Because... it wouldn't be right-"

A small but sad smile tugged at the corners of her mouth and her fingers found his, lacing them together. Without warning, she closed her eyes and brought her lips against his own, catching him completely off guard as her mouth melted into his! Her fingers trailed up his arms, feeling his body suddenly jolt... and then slowly untense.

When she pulled away only seconds later, he was speechless and wide-eyed. He brought his trembling fingers to the brim of his lips, as if to ensure that he had not just dreamed that.

"You're a mystery to me, Aaron.", She sighed as she rose from the ledge of the fountain. "I know you have feelings... but I wish I could see them for myself." Without another word, she hurried off towards the castle, leaving the blue knight alone with his conflicting thoughts.

END FLASHBACK

Aaron gazed to the stars, waiting for a wish to shoot across the sky. And when it did, he wished for her. "I wish-" Suddenly remembering his pledge to Aura Guardian Order, he quickly suppressed those thoughts and sighed to himself, his glance returning to the queen's chamber. "I-I wish you a happy marriage, milady..."

"Master?" The words found passage through Telepathy. Yes, the voice appeared in his head, slightly echoing but crystal clear and masculine. It was the voice of Lucario, his faithful student. He quietly appeared at Aaron's side. "You've returned."

Facing his pupil, Aaron merely chuckled. "This IS my home, isn't it?"

The Aura Pokémon nodded. "I apologize. I wasn't expecting you to return until morning."

"I sleep better in the comfort of my own kingdom.", He explained, pushing aside his thoughts of Lady Rin. "And I want to be able to protect it in the case of-" He paused. His mind played back on Queen Ida's grave warning from earlier that day. "Never mind." He decided it was best not to worry Lucario about the frightening rumors. After all, he had been instructed to keep the information to himself.

But Lucario was persistent. "Of what? What is it, master?"

This would be a difficult task of relaying the hard information. But he did so anyway. "Do you remember the disturbance I felt while we were training in the woods this morning?"

The Pokémon nodded. "Of course."

"Well... I think I've touched upon the cause of it."

Eagerness suddenly filled Lucario. "What is it?"

He rubbed his chin as if digressing. "I can't say for sure. My senses are blind to the source itself. I feel as though a dark but familiar presence his emerging somewhere... and I can't help but wonder if it's somehow connected to the spreading rumors of violence and disorder occurring within Cardinal Kingdom."

Rumors weren't quite enough to convince the intellectual Pokémon of such a travesty. He much preferred facts. "With all due respect, sir, we are Aura Guardians.", The Pokémon voiced his concern. "Is it appropriate for us to depend so heavily on uncertainties and fabrications?"

"Master Kota thought the same. He didn't want to jump to any rash conclusions... so he's journeyed to the Cardinal Empire himself to find answers the correct way."

Lucario slightly gasped, taken aback by this revelation. "The other kingdoms must be on edge over this news." All of a sudden, his gaze turned alert and he flicked his worried glance to his master. "Does Lady Rin know of this-"

But Aaron shook his head. "Word hasn't spread this far, at least not yet. But when it does, we have to be prepared to prevent any widespread panic and to maintain the peace of both Rota and Emerald Kingdom. It's our duty."

"I agree.", Acceded Lucario... but not before marveling on another query. He leveled his eyes with his master's, his voice having gone oddly sullen. "If you don't mind my asking, sir... what do YOU think is happening to King Eldar's people?"

"Misconduct of order.", The knight explained softly, never taking his eyes off of the canid, whose mouth seemed to gape slightly at his answer. "The people and Pokémon of the kingdom have been defying their laws and customs in favor of senseless violence and rebellion. And more pressingly, the guardians of the Cardinal Kingdom are purposely enforcing the epidemic."

Letting out a second gasp, the creature swiftly stood up! "But that's treason!"

"Well, we can't yet prove anything.", Aaron calmly continued, glancing downward at his own feet. "Hopefully Kota will report to us soon with some deeper insight on the situation."

"W-why would an Aura Guardian choose to abuse his jurisdiction?", The puzzled Lucario asked, barring teeth with great heartache.

"You don't need to worry about a thing, Lucario.", The confident knight assured as he stood to his feet. "I'll talk to Kota tomorrow and see what's truly going on. Alright?"

Lucario gave a somewhat content nod as he walked with his master back towards the castle. "If you say so, master."

"And no matter what happens, the Aura will be with us.", Aaron said, placing a fist upon his chest enthusiastically as he drew to a still. "The Aura is inside of us all."

(Next Chapter: The Cardinal Kingdom conspiracy is brought to light when Misdreavus fails to report back to Kota. We learn more about the many uses of Aura, both dangerous and beneficial, and what Kota has in mind for Zinten and his forces of evil.)