Triangle – Reshiram, A Maiden And Lugia

Chapter Three

Sick Of It

In the next day, he became distracted from the thoughts about his scar.

Although, he wasn't grateful for this, because Key was the reason for the 'nice entertainment'.

The annoying ex-biker demanded from him to mime for another chance the delivery man. Namely, in many frustrating missions. And always with other strong Guardians by his side, who kept an eye on him with their dutifully attitude, so that he had no chance in order to simply bunk off.

Secenos didn't know, what was more troublesome. Playing the drudge – or to endure goody-goody the constant observation by those pests who counted of course not to his Unova-friends. Normally, he wouldn't care much about the second fact... But his protégé took complains of her Guardians much more serious, than the words of Key, who was always quick in becoming displeased. (Especially, when aforesaid Pokémon were the ones who she trusted at the most.) And so, Reshiram was forced to do his jobs at least today, while Melodys closest friends had obviously nothing better to do than to play also delivery men (or women) and to prevent him from going home.

The hours elapsed slowly.

He didn't count, how many packets he carried the whole morning on his back. Or minded the fact, how much those objects hindered his ability to fly... Stubborn, he focused only at his destinations and to levitate those packets, which he couldn't carry, in the air thanks to his move Extrasensory. Apart from that, Reshiram didn't even pay lots of attention to the Guardians who joined the mission. He only noted by the way, that they had also not much motivation for their jobs.

One hour before 12 o'clock, Secenos got a new overseer. It was the very first Pokémon of Melody: Schiller, a Blastoise. The old turtle reminded Reshiram a lot of Phaia, since Schiller was as fatherly as the fire-pig. And like the Emboar, Melodys first starter possessed a lot patience with others. Surely, he was also no supporter of Secenos' personality, but at least Schiller tolerated him as long, as the white dragon acted not too black-hearted and egocentric. This allowed Secenos to repose – mentally, while he and the senior Guardian alias leader carried vast arrays of giant lumbers.

Proper, the two guys did everything which they were instructed to complete.

~ C ~

At noon, he finished his last job.

Well, at least he had hoped so, before Key called him and Schiller.

The nerd introduced their next missions to them – ordering the Blastoise to support a few Guardians who battled at the moment against several strong members of the new Cipher, while demanding from Secenos to continue the delivering-day. Reshiram had already enough from those boring jobs, which was why he started to complain; to rebel. But Key showed no mercy. With the harsh warning, that the dragon should better do the same work like the other Guardians, if he still wanted to be truthfully a part of this 'team', the ex-biker compelled Reshiram to continue his work.

A deep growl rolled in Secenos' throat, while the Blastoise closed Keys device which had turn off after the annoying guy ended the call. Reshiram stared bitter at this little something-like-a-phone – as if that thing was blamable for the situation, he would love it to destroy this item at once...

Lying his head a little angular, Schiller stated with his typical fatherly undertone: "Hach yes, I know how frustrating it must be to listen to this young mule, as long as oneself isn't used to him... Actually, I can remember very well the feeling, which I got, when Key started quickly the work as our organizer and technology-specialist, after the first plan of Cipher was negated. I was back then very disgusted, to watch this intelligent boy and trainer suddenly in the role of a harsh commander, because he never seemed to be such a 'control-freak' as long as he had no real responsibility. Perhaps I never realized before, that he takes his jobs much more serious, than the majority of those so-called human geniuses... If I'm right, then Key is... somehow caring. Too much."

"You want to say, that I should be... clement...?" Secenos hissed in disgust while using the last word – fighting against the simple idea to show mercy to someone, who treated him even worse than all the other ones who refused him. Schiller smirked minimal: "No, this would be too much for you. For the majority of us, if I have to be honest. After all, everybody from the first three generations can't tolerate Keys exaggeratedness, although we are those who met him before he became more than just one of the trainers who support us. And even I possess not the patience to have always commiseration for his stressing duty." "Then, why did you had to deliver a speech...?" the dragon asked with a fatigued expression. "Well, maybe I want you to understand, why Key is nevertheless an important part of our alliance. I mean, you will not find easily someone who takes his duty and responsibility as serious as him, though he has no special powers aside from his intelligent brain. Plus, he respects at least Melody. Treats her even like a real friend. And he would do – like all of us – everything in order to support her. If you ask me, then Key possesses in his hard husk a soft, sentimental core. He's similar to Space, who's also not easy to handle. And you, if we are honest, behave also not like an angel."

Secenos sighed: "I had already enough wiggings in the last days..." "Which you provoked or even started directly by yourself." ,Schiller declared, "In this point, you are in the same way a nuisance, like our stressed organizer and the extraterrestrial doctor. But in my eyes, there is a difference between the three of you." "And...?" Reshiram mumbled, while he prepared slowly for going to the initial point of his next mission. The Blastoise replied with a sad smile: "You know, what you do. I'm sure, that you have more sensitivity than Key and Space together, so that you really realize, what your actions cause others. After all... You are as close to Melody, like all of us. All Pokémon, who are classified as the strongest Guardians with supernatural powers – similar to Adepts. Even, when you deny it: My little girl from once, who became now such a courageously young woman, touches yet your offish heart, so that her kindness affects you."

Secenos' nose crinkled a little. Those words irritated him in an unpleasing way... He hated it.

"This is too sentimental." ,he snarled quietly, "You better go now and help your friends."

Schiller chuckled abashed: "You're right. This old turtle almost forgot his job..."

"Then get lost. And let me do mine." Reshiram snorted sobered.

~ C ~

At the initial point, Secenos recognized relieved that he had at least a bit luck.

His next overseer was an agreeable partner – much more, than the majority of Guardians. Above all, even more constructive for his mood than his friends from Unova, because it was nobody else but his young protégé.

Surprised by her spontaneous help, Reshiram wanted to know why she 'wasted' her time for him. With an airily smile on her lips, Melody explained it: She had finished her last mission, when Key called her plus asked, if she could delay her break until someone else was free in order to take care of the unmotivated dragon. And since she had nothing private to do at the moment, until it was time for the meeting which she and Key had settled for the afternoon, she didn't mind to work longer.

(Hearing those words let him furrow his bows a bit. After all, it was indeed an unbelievable fact, that she considered someone like the nerd as a friend. But not only this irritated him in secret. Eventually: She wasn't forced to support him in such a boring job. So... Had she really nothing better to do in her freetime...? After several jobs – some of them even before sunrise...?)

When they loaded the delivery onto themselves, he winced minimal with his ears while watching how Melody would carry the majority of her part. Of course, with a small human body, his protégé wasn't able like him to move items from one place to the other. So, she used her ability to levitate lots of things (or persons) in the same moment. But even a nailing Adept like her was not perfect, which was, why she needed at times a 'drudge' who helped her to carry a larger delivery, although the young woman was generally not dependent on two additional hands.

It was... remarkable for him, how superior she was thanks to her concentration and special energy, while she possessed still typical humanely weaknesses like this one. In his eyes, she was celestial, though... or rather just because she hadn't stopped to work on herself and to stay with both feed steadfast on the ground. Albeit she didn't like it... Melody deserved his silent admiration.

This liking, though, was not prevailing for a personal aspect of her.

While they left the initial point with uncountable objects, his brain recognized finally, what his eyes had registered in the first moment when he saw Melody in this place. And even, when he said never something about that topic: He really wondered about her tick to wear often different clothes. Betimes, it annoyed him also a little bit, since he had no sense (or tolerance) for fashion. Watching, how she changed per day over and over her appearance, made him tired.

For Reshiram, it was a pure mystery, how his protégé did it... Eventually, the bottom-line was: Melody had seemingly for every occasion at least one outfit. For example this typically outfit with the white west and almost-black pants, which she wore now. This thing was definitely something like her regular-job-outfit, while this specific white dress with boots and complex sleeves was only for her purest use of the offensive power as a Sol-Adept. (Although the embodiment of truth speculated generally, that this one was defined. That this dress was magical – like the other clothing, a very long bright dress, which was part of her celestial form. After all, this beautiful outfit appeared whenever she lent Natit her power – granting him temporarily his Sol-form. And the white outfit – anyway this was his impression of her offensive strength – appeared also not randomly.)

But thinking about her existence as the current Sol-Adept...

Melodys supporting employment of her power as a Sol-Adept (alias mortal, yet angelic creature) was indeed magical. Why else should the color of her hair change always...? Because of her will, after she already liked her natural sky-blue...? No. Of course not. So, it wasn't her own decision, that the beautiful waves became silver with a golden shine whenever she arrived this powerful but completely defensive state. This phenomenon was obviously a part of her 'metamorphosis'. Perhaps, it should simply emphasize this 'holy touch' or 'angelic atmosphere' around her... Or maybe it was just some kind of humor or preference of this being called Sol, who allowed her after all to possess this colossal force which even the best Adepts couldn't develop by themselves...

Hmpf, whatever...

In the midst of the flight, Secenos focused again on her usual appearance(s).

Apart from this 'magic-quirk' outside of her influence, he often wondered, how she could change completely ordinary clothes (via her special energy) quickly – and in addition everywhere... It was an irreversible fact, that teleportation was limited in consideration of it's range. When the place, where a desired object resided, was located in a world alias dimension which was truly far away, then teleportation failed or worked only slowly like a slug moves. Because of this, Reshiram could not imagine that Melody used this kind of transportation... Rather, he would be willing to believe, that the young Adept relied now and then on 'pocket dimensions', where she could stock on demand temporarily clothes (or other items) that she preferred to have in her near.

When they landed in the first area where they had to deliver a few packets, he snorted soundless.

Secenos couldn't help but focus a little on her hair, while she was busy with talking to three guys who seemed to be responsible for the receipt of products. In the warm sunlight at noon, the strands shimmered like the lively sea which reflects a pretty, azure-colored sky. The view was so beautiful, but he couldn't enjoy it fully... This was, because his protégé liked it also to change her hairstyle – instead of letting the silky waves flowing like mother nature had ordered them to do.

Mostly, Melody wore her 'brand mark': Plaited braids. Two exemplars were usual in her free-time, while she preferred while fighting in general a single one because of it's practical implementation. Thanks to her mental powers, she could even switch between the styles without needing her hands, which was also the reason why she had never trouble with combing her hair. So, the young woman had always the possibility to adapt her style to the current situation.

Which didn't mean, that she had absolutely no interest into other 'haircuts'. Now and then, she liked also ponytails. Such a 'tail' was either located on the upper part of the back of the head or – assumed that she felt like it – on the right side of her head. But even a bonnily ponytail was not exactly that, what Secenos had in mind... In this regard, he could be truly grateful, that his protégé changed constantly never two small aspects of her hairstyle. Her real 'brand mark', a fringe (or called bangs), was always identical. It was the same with two shorter strands of hair which ranged to her shoulders and were located directly beside her face. Those things stayed always, like they were.

Although, Secenos had generally not really a problem with her braids, he regretted a little the point, that his possibilities were limited to watch her strands of hair freely. It was rarely, that the dragon saw Melody with open hair, since she wore it basically then open, while she used her full strength as a Sol-Adept (offensive and defensive) – or, when she went ultimate to bed. And the last chance was the truly rare example of both alternatives, because it was for him like... Christmas and Easter at one and the same day, whenever he could watch her in a nightgown.

~ C ~

"Aah, is this not nice...? The clean air; this beautiful nature; and such a relaxing atmosphere... I bet, that you are definitely taken with this place!" his protégé rejoiced gently. "Well..." ,he said slowly, "It is... alright. Tolerably." She rolled her eyes and replied a bit sulking: "Enthusiasm is not really your strength, isn't it? Although you should be happy about my choice for spending still a little time with you, before we will separate later. After all, I am not forced to visit with you this lonely forest. I could also wait for Key in the HQ Lab, until he finishes his job for today and starts our meeting. So, I'm wondering why you have no fun, since this place fits your preferences."

For a few feed-steps, he considered her words. Reshiram felt not like answering her, but...

"Until now, the whole day was only... a disenchantment. This kind of boredom 'digests' me. I feel, as if my body would be filled with cotton – and not my own organs." "Which means, that you need some time to recover, if you want to enjoy again something. As long, as you have this feeling inside of you, even things which make you usually happy can't cheer you up now. Practically... you are – thanks to the missions – now a little numb." she stated calm. "Yes." he confirmed short-spoken.

After those sparse words, the white dragon fell again silent.

Melody sighed a bit frustrated about his non-talkative attitude, but she found quickly something, which distracted her from the disappointment. And to be honest: Her distraction was not only for the young Adept welcome.

She summoned this special gift from Natit. His treasure of the heart; this magical ocarina.

(Like her clothes, she had always access to this instrument, which was possible because of the fact, that the ocarina was 'independent'. It was a magical object, but it was not bound to Natits near, which enabled the trouble-free transport. Effective, the present was veritable – it was real. Completely in opposition to Secenos' creation for her, since his blade was dependent on him or rather his physical near to the place where Melody was.)

His protégé played the light-blue instrument. Using only the natural tunes of the small object instead of every imaginable sound or variety of musical instruments, she created a mystic, yet calm atmosphere or rather ambiance, which eased even the most ungracious spirit.

While he walked next to her in a noiseless way, Secenos listened very attentive to the music. Betimes, the large dragon closed even his eyes, because he couldn't refuse the soothing effect. Relishing the unobtrusive sounds which Melody made let him feel recovered and also more bright. It was, as if the sound would wash away the frustration in his mind... He started truthfully to enjoy the lively-green forest, the fresh air around him and not to forget his stay with her.

Reshiram looked curious at the young woman. She answered his gaze – and he could see, that she realized his beginning delight, because her sky-blue eyes sparkled with relief. A soft smile glided gradually over her face – making it the most beautiful mien he knew.

His ears winced a little while he watched this sight. If she wouldn't play at the moment this object... perhaps he would abuse her face now. Because he started to feel again this specific curiosity. Felt, how much he wanted to know, what kind of taste her rosy lips might have...

Damned, he wanted her...

~ C ~

Per accident, they discovered suddenly something in the wood, which forced even someone like Reshiram to forget those insubordinate feelings of his body. (Well, the happening caused for sure not only him to react astonished, but it was easier to taken Melody by positive surprise, than him. After all, she was in spite of her technical interest still a child of nature.)

While she stopped playing the ocarina, both watched the natural masterpiece in front of them. Gazed soundless at the small, but pictorially lake which resided between large broadleaf-trees.

Somehow, after a half minute, Secenos felt like breaking the silence. In a low voice, he asked her: "Did you... knew about it?" Giggling a little, she shook her head: "No, unfortunately not. I expected maybe from this forest, that it must have a place like this one, yet I couldn't see even a tiny proof whenever I flew above the trees. But well, now we have the information, why it was so hard to see this water in the air. The trees allow no outlook while the feed don't touch the ground." "But why? Why did you think at least, that there had to be a lake?" he wondered. "Easy: Because Ducklett seem to visit the forest now and then. It made me suspicious, when I watched a swarm several times while I had a similar job to do like the one we had today. 'Of course' I got not the idea to use my something-like-a-flair, but in the end I can't tell, that I would be unsatisfied with the current result. After all, I can share this discovery now with one of my best friends."

Enjoying the pretty view was one thing, but hearing those words from her was simply admirable. This single phrase lightened his mood – encouraged him, to take like always the chance to provoke her fascination for animalistic bodies... To show her, how worthwhile his offering was...

Indeed, it couldn't be more perfect now. The white-green light which shimmered through the trees; the comfortable-quiet atmosphere around them; the soft mosses under their feed; and the nice fact, that his protégé was currently very generous with her 'personal judgment' about him. If not now – while being in such a wonderful place in the purest nature – then he had no idea, which occasion fitted Melodys interest enough to give in to him.

Careful, the calm white dragon leaned expressionless his head on her right shoulder.

She gazed at him with minimal lifted eyebrows, but it looked not as if she would mind his doing. Rather, the young woman waited seemingly for his next action – unsure, what he wanted from her. A weak smile scurried over his face, since he couldn't believe at times, how good-natured she was to question always the black-hearted aspect of his personality. Why, just why had she so much trust, that she expected not automatically the worst from him...

Slowly, he allowed his wings to approach her a little. When the fluffy limbs rested next to her body, so that she was surrounded by them in a comfortable way without any force behind his doing, gradually a smile appeared on her lips and in her eyes. She understood, what his action meant. Nevertheless, she showed no sign of refusal, because it was not the expression which she gave him, whenever her answer was a clear 'No!'... Instead of that, Melody 'emitted' some kind of relaxation, that supported his inner calm. Unstressed, he let his claws palm a bit the soft mosses at the ground, while he created a quiet growl in his throat – similar to the tune of a satisfied cat; purring.

Unexpected, her hands dived bit by bit into the feathers of his wings.

This astonished him a little, but in a positive way. Additional relaxed by her reaction, he closed trustful his eyes. Let her fingers wander through his plumage, until she stopped because she found the skin underneath the white adornment. The sensation was as appealing, as if she would touch his animalistic face, which was why he could no longer resist to take more control.

Unhasty, he wrapped his wings around her. With the claws of his right limb, he held gently the free shoulder of his protégé, while he put the other ones at her thigh. Minimal, he pressed her back against his chest, so that she was more or less completely surrounded by him. Melody answered him by laying her hands on the outside of his right wing – gliding with her fingers again into the feathers until she touched his skin. Because of this touch he felt heatedly, so that he hold her even stronger. He couldn't help but nudge her neck with his nose; breathing in the sweetish scent of this young girl before his lips found the delicious skin she owned. In this moment, her hands grabbed strong into his feathers, which acted like a stimulatory drug on him; a part of him supplied itself with blood... In his rising arousal, he prevented her not from caressing his skin through the plumage.

But... his last doing – or rather not-doing turned out to be a mistake. A large mistake.

And he could feel, how his chance became just because of it ruined at once...

Cursed...! She touched his scar...

~ C ~

He realized forthrightly, that she recognized it. The open wound.

She was completely torpid – breathed not even minimal. But a few seconds after her fingers had touched this specific part of him, she loosened at once from her temporarily petrification. Angrily. Secenos could sense, how the rage started to take her mind over. He didn't need to listen to the way how she took deep breaths. Her body clenched a bit, which was why he did not want to let her go, although he recognized that she wished for that. The only thing, that he could allow at the moment, was, to turn her with caution around, which gave her the possibility to look at his face.

Her sky-blue eyes gazed severe at him, while she stated: "You know, why I am a bit furious now, don't you. So, can you tell me, why you didn't inform me about the returning trouble of your 'harmless handicap'...? Did you really think, that I wouldn't recognize it thanks to your plumage, that your right arm is injured? Surely, because of your feathers, it's impossible to see it. But... Honestly, I can feel it very well, how your scar started to work again. It's completely open – AND like always, it lets your blood rot! How the hell could you hide this from me?!"

He snorted tired. Not taking her worry serious, he replied: "Hang it all... It's just the same old story. As if I have to inform you always about it, when this thing moves a tiny nerve. You care too much. With that fact, I don't plan to scream every single time, when a little drop of blood appears... Truthfully: Stop worrying about such an unimportant side-effect."

Melody shook determined her head. With an earnest expression, the young woman said: "Wrong. The problem with your scar is no bagatelle. After all, the Shadow Triad was detected by Key. Seemingly, the three plan something very dangerous, which probably could come true in the case, that you are weakened like THAT." Reshiram didn't understand: "What has this to do with my scar? Why should I worry, just because I will have sooner or later those... mental attacks?"

"Don't you see...? You are the number-one-foe of the trio. After all, they think, that it is your fault, how the 'great plan' of Ghetsis could fail completely." "Why do you believe this...?" he wondered. With a furrowed forehead, the embodiment of truth gazed unsure at Melody. Her serious worry seemed to enter him slowly, after he recognized gradually how much she cared for that situation. Normally, he wouldn't care a damn for it, but those earnest irises made even him nervous.

The sky-blue-haired Adept explained: "Already, before Key noted that the guys do some suspicious activities around this world as well as a few neighboring exemplars, I met the Shadow Triad. Probably, you are aware of this – after all, I have no secrets when it comes to my Guardians and especially best friends. However, a few days before, I practically bumped unwillingly into them. This event was as 'nice' as always – they were 'friendly' and completely 'lovely'. As customary, nobody had lots of interest into listening to reason. But their head – perhaps the oldest of them – told me clearly, that in their eyes, Reshiram – you – is fully responsible for their failed 'destiny'. According to the trio's opinion, it happened only because of 'the dragons determination to help me', that N changed his mind and accompanied us instead of Team Plasma. And so, they will do now every possible and impossible activity in order to destroy you. No matter, how exactly."

Secenos measured her words for a moment. Actually, he refused it to take her idea too serious. Yet... He couldn't deny the fact, that the Shadow Triad were no harmless, conventional humans. Although, it didn't appeal to him to care for this difficulty, he understood, that they would take advantage of every small weakness he would show them. And his scar was such a weakness, too.

"I don't mind." ,he mumbled, "When they really think, that they can kill me: They can always try. But even with an active scar, that floods me with negative energy: I'm still stronger than them. Humans like the trio – full of revengefulness – have no chance against a being like me."

"You are too self-confident." Melody sighed and touched his right wing again with both hands. Thoughtful he watched, how she caressed cautious his limb – taking care not to contact his scar. Melodys gingerliness eased Reshirams combativeness. He could remember afresh, that she was still surrounded by his wings, which was why he started to hold her again a bit more tightly.

"Do you really not care for the danger?" she whispered melancholy. Stroking his shoulders gently. Instead of answering her at once, Secenos aspirated a soft kiss on her forehead. "No." he susurrated, before he touched her skin with a bit more pressure. Her scent; her aroma... Oh god, he wanted her. It became harder and harder for him, to resist... His mouth glided deeper. Touching her right cheek, he was no longer able to leave his eyes open. Nor could he let his lips shut. With closed eyelids, Reshiram allowed his tip of the tongue to touch her silky skin. The sweetish taste drove him crazy, which was why he wanted to feel – to savor her rosy lips, too...

"DON'T." Melody ordered him with a strict pitch of the voice. He growled quietly; followed her completely reluctant. Nevertheless, he didn't let her go; leaned his forehead rather against her chest. Squinting his eyes, he ground hard his fangs. "You tantalize me..." he stated with a throaty voice. "Be not cruel... It is not, like I would want to hurt one of my best friends..." she answered sad. Secenos sighed: "But you know, that I will never give up... I want only you for this..." "I know. Yet, I can't be a one-night-stand. I love Natit. My heart belongs to him. And even, if I wouldn't have him, it would be impossible for me to accept you. I can't sleep with someone, who I don't love."

"I am aware of this... Always... After all, you are my protégé..." Secenos moaned.

~ C ~

Stretching his body, the white dragon yawned ample.

The present day had been a good, pleasant one – especially his last mission.

He could swear, that it was Melodys 'fault', that Key had assigned him only interesting jobs. Anyway everything seemed, as if his idea was a real fact, because his protégé showed yesterday strong pity for him and his penalty. Even after the little happening between them, the young woman had stated clearly, how much compassion her 'benefactor' triggered with his personal trouble. So, perhaps she had already influenced the ex-biker, when the two of them spent this quality-time. Which would explain in any case, why Key had not chastised him today in any regard.

Hm, whatever... Though, he had lots of (fighting-)fun today, he felt, that it was time to go home. And luckily, he stood in a world not far away from his own, so that he would be soonish in his place and able to eat dinner together with his friends. Maybe he could even pull himself together in order to create with them one or two sessions, before his great need for sleep would emerge.

Secenos winced with his ears, when he wanted to take wing.

Something... wasn't right.

His flair didn't fail him, because suddenly a great triple-beam sped into his direction.

Dodging the ray, he could already see while hovering above the ground, who dared to attack him. And he couldn't believe, how much bad luck he must have, since it was like a stupid joke to watch those characters, who Melody had mentioned in the last day...

Confronted with the Shadow Triad, Reshiram gazed deprecative at the three guys.

"How crack-brained are you idiots, to challenge someone like me?" he asked cynically.

The leader chuckled self-confident: "Now, now, do you worry about us? Heh, you should better care for your own health, because we are this time much stronger than you could ever expect! We had some nice boosts for our negative energy in the last weeks, which you definitely don't want to meet! So, capitulate better now, before this here will be unnecessarily harder for you!"

The suppressed aggressiveness alarmed Reshirams flight-instinct. But in the same time, it appealed to his natural pugnacity, so that he didn't think about giving up and allowing them to do with him, whatever the violent humans had planned. In lieu thereof, he provoked them with a black-hearted, fangs-uncovering grin: "Oh c'mon, you stupid dunderheads have no chance against me. You are as powerless and starry-eyed, like your insane master. And if you don't watch out... then you'll end soon like Ghetsis himself." "Scumbag!" the guys called in the same moment, before they fired negative energy at the dragon. Secenos protected himself quickly with a barrier, but he recognized, that his provocation had triggered somehow more force behind those beams... This amused him. Grinning, he answered their attack with a shock-wave of his black-white energy, which they dodged instantly with an almost impressive jump into the air. Then...

"You can float. How comical." Secenos stated nastily. "Not as funny, as your fall will shortly be." ,the leader replied self-reliant, "I can't wait to pull out every single feather you giant goose have." "Not as much, as I want to deform your idiotic visages." the embodiment of truth snarled.

~ C ~

He had underestimated them.

This realization hit his mind in an unpleasant, abrupt way.

But Secenos was at the moment nevertheless not determined to give up.

Headstrong, like he was, he wanted to defeat the trio in order to teach them a valuable lesson. Namely, that they couldn't hold the past forever in their tiny brains, because this would only destroy everything positive of their characteristics, until they were truly copies of Ghetsis current state. Not, that this would matter for him, personally... He hated more or less every human and Pokémon around him, who counted not to his friends. So, the reason for his doing wasn't pity. Instead of that, his simple existence as the embodiment of truth demanded from him to make the Shadow Triad realize ASAP, that their current way was only wrong.

And of course, his pride and combativeness forbade him to flee or to call for help. After all, he was not only strong, but persistent and quick, too. Taking damage was no reason to worry about, as long as he possessed always the option to counter the foes attacks. And indeed, he had usually the chance thanks to the two weaker men, who allowed him practically to pay back every hit. This could be almost a reason for him to become optimistic after his annoying discovery, but Reshiram stayed now as a precaution skeptical in order to prevent any mistakes.

In the event, this decision turned out to be a good choice.

It was in the midst of the battle, when he understood that.

Naturally, Reshiram had to endure – like his enemies – many strikes and injuries. But unfortunately, the three man were talented in self-healing. In contrast to him, who was truly better in weakening/strengthening others than taking care for his own wounds. Which was also the reason, why he didn't get the possibility to create his black dome, though this would help him now massive. Argh, if he could just constrain their movements – just a little bit... Because...

Suddenly, a fierce triple-beam hit Secenos right body-half.

The attack paralyzed his right wing completely... If he wouldn't be able to float via his energy like every other Guardian, then he would fall now at the hard ground. Knowing this, let him feel nevertheless not tranquilized, since he was in any way limited and an easier target for his foes. Aforesaid people started also in this second another attack, which he could barely negate with an own blast – using white-blue fire via the exhalation with his mouth.

But for fending a subsequent beam off, Reshiram was not recovered enough.

~ C ~

"I don't think so!"

Hearing the self-confident voice was like a welcoming miracle for him.

With mischievous pleasure, Reshiram watched grinning how his freshly-appeared protégé destroyed the enemies beam via enormous waves of icy energy, before she fought the perplexed Shadow Triad off with a strong squall. Oh yes... There existed no other way, how he could enjoy it as much as now to be supported (or perhaps rescued) by a good friend.

Melody levitated to his injured right side – started to heal it, while the trio was also busy with medicating the worst damages. Half amused, half frustrated the young Adept smiled at him when physical easement flowed through his body. "Silly. I told you, how dangerous they became. Do you ever listen to my worry...?" she stated somehow exhausted. "Well, I don't complain about your help, don't I? So, your words are not completely ignored. … I can see, what you meant." "Alright. Then, do me the favor to let me support you. After all, you don't have to do this alone. I'm here for you. Even, if this is a burden for your ego." Melody said with a hopeful gaze in her eyes.

Secenos nodded – giving her his quiet permission: "I let you."

The battle continued directly after their conversation – thanks to the foes. Luckily, this happened after Melody had also finished the most necessary healing of her friends injuries, so that both sides could face the exchange of blows as recovered as possible. Though the combat resumed abruptly, the white dragon payed still some attention to his protégé – making sure, to return the favor which she did him when she was appeared in this place and had healed his wounds...

Perhaps he could only materialize it, when she was in his near, but at least Secenos could give her in moments like this one the specifically blade he had created for her. And luckily, the weapon was very useful for her while dealing with the foes, since that thing possessed only Secenos' purest, most positive light in order to match Melodys four elements plus the golden energy as a Sol-Adept. Changeable, like his spirit, the weapon reflected four shapes for the young woman. The appearances of a rapier (earth), a scythe (fire), a large staff (water), and a crossbow (wind). Additional, the rapier fitted the aforesaid fifth energy perfectly, so that his personal treasure would protect her for him.

However... Because he knew, that his protégé would not become harried easily, he could ease several regions of his brain that had overlapped his self-assuredness; concentrate again on his target. Reshiram focused alone on the powerful leader, while his protégé handled the other two candidates in order to consider his independent decision. (The fact, that she respected him and was also willing to prevent the weaker trio-members from attacking his body, touched his tiny sentimental side. Sometimes – in situations like this one – he asked himself in secret, how this could be... How it was even possible, to deserve still her trust, after he had done again something... nasty to her... Was she really nothing more than an Adept; a human, that she could forgive him again and again, to demand nothing else but an extensive special moment with her...? While he fought against the trio-leader, Secenos felt, how intense the thoughts about Melody affected him...)

~ C ~

Suddenly, his scar ripped itself completely open.

Causing him to feel overwhelming pain, the injury paralyzed his body at once.

But it was not the physical distress, that took away the majority of his consciousness. Not the way, how his blood started to rot on the surface... but the agony, that arose from the negative energy amongst the supernatural injury. The sick humanity inside of his mental madness engrossed quickly his perceptiveness – filled him up with indescribable anguish of mind...

'NO!' Reshiram thought wrathful. Refused with his whole spirit, how his handicap took him over, which allowed him to doge a strong blast of the trio-leader early enough. After this, Melody came fast as lightning to his side – shielded him from another attack, which was this time summoned by the whole Shadow Triad. Her support was very welcome for him, since he needed to fight for now against his personal foe instead of the idiotic guys, so that he cared no longer for his environment. For a moment, his protégé simply had to deal alone with the trio... Otherwise, he would be not even able to keep up the practical weapon for her. So, there was no other way.

Slowly, he closed his eyes.

Half-drowning in his human madness, the dragon became quickly furious because of himself. Nothing could make him as stodged with hate, as his own issues could. Truthfully nothing. This was why he didn't stand it to have this strange scar. This was... why he was not willing to lose against such weak feelings as despair and depression. It would make him not only vulnerable as well as would turn him into an easy target for his foes, but also... it would make him completely worthless in his own opinion. And since he had here no chance to ease the distress with a specific 'medicine', Secenos had ultimate no other possibility than focusing himself completely on his purest blood-lust. Blood-lust and wrath in order to free his body and – which was even more important – his mind from the negative state in which he was imprisoned.

Effective, Reshiram started to rely on nothing else but his 'inner-monster'. On everything which was characteristical for his darkest sides – inchoate with his strongest egoism and recklessness. Practically, he turned his whole mind into an 'embodiment of Yin'; erased temporarily his 'light' while he fought against his human weakness, so that he became unable to feel guilt or worry. Resulting, that he could feel in black-hearted joy, how the madness became weaker.

He had never done such a mental switch before in a serious fight.

And suddenly, his body gave him one single reason why he had never tried it.

His dark sides became accidentally active. Active, as if they were identical to his regular powers. They overwhelmed him like an energy-reserve – pushed his wish to defeat the enemies. And since Reshiram was really in danger as long as his body was weakened, he didn't even think about refusing his rising gloom. Instead, Secenos welcomed it...

When he opened his eyes again, he felt not only the change of his physical strength. He saw it. Watched not only, how the explosion he had created hit just now two trio-members with yellow-red instead of white-blue fire... but could also gaze at another difference. It was not only his energy, which matched the temporarily alteration of his mind. His body did this, too.

His color-scheme was inverted. Every feather – every hair was no longer white. His dark powers had redyed his complete body, so that he was as black as Zekrom normally was. And when he saw the reflection of himself in Melodys shocked eyes, then he realized, that even his own irises were merciless affected by his 'inner-monster'. His light-blue scleras were light-red, while his pupils in the pale color of an icy sea were vanished in order to give way to a reserved blood-red.

~ C ~

His appearance should scare him. Even a being like him.

But it didn't. It really didn't. He simply felt no anxiety – not even unsureness.

Secenos could only sense the physical powers of his dark sides. And their promising ego, which had the same effect like a strong drug on him. Melodys worry about him reached his mind no longer, although he could definitely see her stunned, incredulous expression. And above all, he realized how unimportant her opinion – almost her bare existence became for him...

Everything he cared about now, was nothing more but fighting.

The injured two members of the trio recovered not as quick as before from Reshirams brute attack, which was even for their self-confident leader like a strong punch into the stomach. He stared disbelieving at the embodiment of truth – obviously overwhelmed by the unexpected force. Trepidation glided over his face, which revealed his growing intention to leave the battlefield leastwise for this time. And it was the same with his companions, who even showed anxiety and shock as simultaneously as twins.

But Secenos didn't grant them so easily an escape.

Using his temporarily yellow-red fire, the dragon attacked the leader without any sign of pity. Lunged even at the enemy, when aforesaid human was still busy with shielding himself. The other two members tried to prevent Reshiram from this, but their action made it only easier for him. Grinning, he allowed his whole force to coma out.

While he emitted with lots of strength his power in form of an all-embracing blast wave, he watched how the energy hit the foes not in the typical black-white color-scheme. Normally, the black played the dominant, yet completely calm part while the white added a soft touch to the attacks... But now, the main-color was piercingly white with a black supplement which promised only doom and destruction instead of safety and peace. Effective, it was the same coloration, like his specific sign on the right back of the 'hand' possessed whenever it inverted.

Speaking of it... A short look at his wing revealed Secenos, that his Guardian-sign was indeed white with a black shimmer instead of the contrary state. Since it glowed in this moment, he could see, that his temporarily metamorphose affected truthfully everything of him.

Still, he felt no worry.

Not even, while he simply battered the Shadow Triad under Melodys shocked gaze.

He enjoyed his blood-lust intense, so that he had only eyes for the more and more weak enemies. After all, they still wanted to destroy him, although they seriously tried to leave the current battle. Especially the leader – probably the one who adored Ghetsis at the most – yet possessed the will for showing Secenos his deep hate which was even stronger than fear. And this hate was like nutriment that allowed Reshirams 'inner-monster' to stay even with beginning physical fatigue powerful.

Soon, Secenos started to cherish his new ability in a narcissistic way. He couldn't think about something else than the unexpected power, which flowed through every cell of his body. It was like existing for nothing else but his combativeness...

~ C ~

He could only feel the exhaustion, when the Shadow Triad finally made an escape.

Slowly panting, he sank to the ground with a body as heavy as thousands of boulders.

Secenos sensed pain, when his feed carried finally his weight, so that he started tardily to realize how much his 'inner-monster' had turned him into an emotionless tool. But it was too early for him to understand the whole severity of his doing. He couldn't grasp it completely.

Melody, however, understood it very well. Her insight was clearly visible, when she neared him... Obviously, she had waited for the moment of his beginning slow-down, because she came to him only now – with the certainty that he would pay real attention to her. Moreover, the mien of her meant pure earnestness; his eyes wished for looking away, when he studied her expression. He saw, how much it went against her will to heal now his injuries, because already the way how her hands touched his chest revealed him even in this numb state of his mind, that she disapproved it...

In his black-turned body, he didn't know, what to do with her discontent... Should he prevent her from taking care of his wounds...? Or would this action impair her mood even more...? Would he... anger her good will with that...? He couldn't tell in his current status... Empathy was not his strength – it never was – but now... It was impossible for him, to 'sense' her...

Puzzled, he gazed at the unfriendly sky-blue of her eyes, while she healed him.

"What you did – and still do – is like tantalizing your own self. Your soul." she whispered harsh. Secenos knew, that she had a strong flair for recognizing the 'special core' of other creatures... So, when she said that someone injured his self, then it was the truth. But he wasn't willing to accept, that his new ability was a mistake. After all, it could safe his life.

He growled minimal about her words. His reaction annoyed Melody without ambiguity, because those normally endearing hands of her grabbed the hair under her contact with him in a rough way. "I don't care if you can change your powers and appearance. If this helps you to survive every obstacle and danger, than I'm grateful for it. But when you start to harm yourself, then I can't watch. I don't want, that you destroy perhaps a part of yourself...!"

"You're wrong. I don't do this." he replied reserved. "Can you prove it? Because I have great trouble to believe you. When I look at you, then I see not much from the positive sides of your personality. They are downtrodden by the worst parts of your ego." she blamed him.

Snorting, he decided to switch his shape in order to prove his point of view.

Yet, this determination turned out to be a bad idea. Already the light of his shape-shifting wasn't as normal – white – as he was used to. Instead, the shimmer was now as black as his fur and plumage. And when he felt Melodys fingers clenching on the shirt which covered his humanely chest, Secenos swiftly suspected before his returning clear sight, that he regretted his big mouth.

Uff, at least he could feel the kind of guilt again, which Melody caused in his mind...

"Do not tell me, that you have the opinion, that THIS is normal for you." his protégé complained. Grumpily because of her pitch of the voice, he answered unemotional: "Idiocy. I'm still able, to take a human camouflage. Isn't this enough?" "I'm sorry, but... NO?! Your colors are STILL inverted – even your skin is no longer bright! You are now as dark-skinned as Seonar!"

Reluctant, Secenos gazed now at his appearance, since he couldn't grasp her problem...

The result was... a bit disconcerting for him. Discovering, that even his humanely shape was affected by his dark force, made Secenos thoughtful. Even his clothes possessed now the opposite of their normal color-scheme. His black jacket had adopted disagreeable white; his white shirt turned due to his shape-shifting into black; his bright collar and bracelets with a silver-shine became as dusky as those exemplars and collars of his real body; and his dark trousers, belt and shoes weren't no longer so pleasant for his eyes, but now stinging light-colored.

Looking at Melodys irises, he studied his reflection in them.

His hair was still black. And his eyes – though the scleras were as white as they had to be in humanely shape – possessed still not their typical pale sea-blue. Additional, the alternate was even in his current condition sobering. The blood-red seemed to be piercing in Melodys reflecting eyes – Secenos couldn't help but despise the way how he looked in the sky-blue irises...

But all of this didn't change his point of view.

"So... what? Do you think, that I will refuse this new trump-card? Something, which helps me with my supernatural problem that my scar means...?" he snarled unfriendly. Melodys gaze became angrily for a moment, but then it turned into a helpless expression. Helpless and sad. "Ses... Please, don't take this 'chance'... Don't fall for the dark promise of power which your gloom offers..." Sighing, he touched her hands which still rested on his chest. "Nothing will happen to me. I am still the same being. I can already sense, how my suppressed 'light' comes back. And those powers are as willingly callable like the rest of my force." he reassured her.

Not, that it was as easy, as he affirmed... Returning to his normal status would become probably often problematic for him, since a strong misgiving crawled gradually through his exerted brain while he started to emphasize his statement. But well... He was nevertheless successful.

"Better now...? No longer 'Cecil' in your opinion...?" Secenos asked her with a minimal timid smile, when he stand in front of her with his normal human camouflage. Melody tried to smile, too, while her fingers answered his unconstrained touch. "Yes, you seem to be indeed normal now. Yet... 'Cecil'...? Why do you utter the name, which many Guardians use in order to make fun of you...? After all, you don't like this phrase..." she said compassionate. Smiling a bit stronger, he pressed gently her hands on his chest before he answered: "It fits the falseness of this state. Parts of me are for sure still awake while I'm caught in this condition, but this 'me' is not the real me. And this name – Cecil – matches also the way, how the majority of Guardians misapprehend my whole self, so that nothing would be more adequate as an appellation than this one."

She caressed his hands a little while susurrating: "Which means, that you will nevertheless prefer it to follow your own decision instead of my well-intentioned worry... Hm, sometimes I don't know, why you still want to live by my side, since it seems to be not really useful for you." He couldn't help in this moment, but taking fast as lightning his real shape. His wings entangled her body – pressed her against him, while he whispered: "You are my personal protégé. And I want you... Always. These two things are enough reason for me to stay with you."

His words harmed his ego – made him sick, but Melody let him forget this nasty displeasure, because her arms embraced his neck soulful. An intense sigh left his throat, while he simply held the young woman in his large wings and felt her tiny, yet fast heartbeat on his furred chest...

~ C ~

Disbelieving, he lifted his eyebrows. "You want WHAT...?"

Key folded his arms before answering businesslike: "You understood me very well. I want from you and Natit to protect an old town as well as its greatest treasure from harm by some Cipher-members. Since the Adepts of aforesaid place provoked the insufferable team, when they helped us voluntary in our last confrontation with Cipher, they deserve now this favor as a sign of our gratitude."

The white dragon snorted – looked frustrated at Natit, who seemed to have not a problem with that. When he focused again at the annoying humanely pest in front of him, he showed no appreciation: "Why must I do this, too...? I'm not interested into helping. In this case, Natit as Melodys so-called right hand should be more than enough, because you already said that the town is near to the ocean. Meaning the purest home-field-advantage for him – and for me purest boredom."

The Lugia by his left side gave him now a crestfallen gaze. But not in this for Natit typical sad way. Surprisingly, the caramel looked almost displeased at Secenos. Naturally Reshiram recognized this without feeling guilt or a sign of intimidation, since he respected the way too sensitive dragonbird not more than an innocent child. In the eyes of the embodiment of truth, Natit was far away from being scary or authoritarian.

However, Key didn't think about letting Secenos have his will: "You will go. If you want or not. After Melody and some of the other strongest Guardians are already busy with an exhausting job that will take guaranteed one week, you are after Natit the one who's in charge for difficult quests. You two are the best choice, since your types match each other perfectly – and even your other practical talents posses an irrevocable harmony. Above all, you are both 'leaders' – both Level 100. This makes you two ideal – no matter, if you stupid dragon accept this or not."

Reshiram growled. Why shared both of them the title 'the strongest Guardian', when this still meant, that Key tried always to force him to work together with others while he definitely didn't want to...? Fine, he had for sure more vigour than the Lugia, so that he was indeed a good companion for him... Yet, Natit was more dependably. The best choice when it came to protecting others. He would never want to risk the health of the population nor to put up with a possible destruction of some houses. Effective, Natit alone was in such a situation better, than a partnership with Reshiram...

"Who cares? As if a giant swan like Natit wouldn't be already ideal for taking care of this problem. He can handle those Cipher-members alone. I'm not interested. And that's it." Secenos snarled. Before the ex-biker could say anything, Natit – of all things – interfered: "Please, change your mind at least for this time. I beg you: Protect together with me the inhabitants of this town. Those people also did not care for the consequences and helped a few of us willingly, although there was no need for provoking Cipher's anger. They supported even two of your friends – Dexter and Tenebres – which is indeed a good reason for doing them a favor, too. I know, that you disdain such missions, but in the end we are talking about other inhabitants of Weyard! Please, support them."

Secenos stared for a moment expressionless at the sentimental Lugia. Then, he complained gruff: "How much I hate your submissive trait... When I just hear one single phrase of it, then I simply want to spit my guts or to strangle myself. It's worse than the pest. … But alright. After there is obviously no other possibility for making you silent: I'll come with you. So, are you happy now...?" Frustrated, he watched how a bright smile glided shyly over the dragonbirds face. The caramel of his irises was as sparkling as several stars, when Natit replied: "Thank you, Secenos. I am truthfully grateful for your help." Reshiram rolled his eyes. "If you say so..." he mumbled quiet.

"Well then." ,Key cut in on them, "You two should better not waste time anymore. If you want, that aforesaid Adepts don't have to fight for themselves, then it's really necessary that you leave now. Better yesterday than tomorrow." "Pfft, spare me those slogans..." Secenos hissed cranky.

Damned, he already regretted his consent to do this job...

~ C ~

He was lost in thoughts, when they left the HQ Lab in order to travel through the dimensions. Effective, his body flew on it's own – programmed with the right way in the direction of Weyard, while he payed to nothing else attention but to his mind...

Sometimes, Secenos wondered in secret, how Key could obtain information so fast, that it was usually easy for the Guardians to be just in time. Especially Natit, who was well-known for his perfect timing, accomplished with the nerd's knowledge always the trick to arrive a location earlier than everybody else – even before the enemies. So, even Reshiram as someone cared not much for other personalities felt some kind of curiosity when it came to this one topic. He couldn't imagine, that only a few machines and informants were enough for Key to be almost all-knowing. No matter, that the ex-biker was just a normal human: He was worse than Arceus.

Certainly, Natit broke in on Secenos' thoughts, which prevented him from tracing his own mind: "Soon, we will arrive the town. And because our opponents are still not there, we should better advise as a precaution several Adepts about the possible danger." "If you insist on it... But I will not support you in this useless activity." he answered demotivated. Natit chuckled minimal: "Presumably, you misunderstood my words. I do not plan to land in the town. This would be too risky and also costly in terms of time. No, what I want to do, is to inform the strongest persons around this place with OUR combined telepathy."

The embodiment of truth coughed: "What...?! I shall use telepathy in a whole area, after I never have any reason to use it with more than just a few persons in the same time...? Are you crazy?!" "You are not alone. And you forget: I never 'speak' as a Lugia. Like now, I use always telepathy. Because of this, I am qualified for strengthening our 'signal'. Surely, you truly speak with others thanks to your special talent, but this is still no reason for questioning your mental abilities. Whenever you used telepathy in my near, I sensed in spite of your skepticism, how skilled you are." "Skepticism is the right word for it. After all, I am no 'psychic'." Secenos stated short-spoken. Shaking his head, the Lugia replied: "But you can create and even keep this indescribable dome. Nothing could be as impressive as this one action. And it proofs, that you possess indeed a talent like aforesaid 'psychics' you mentioned."

In this moment, they left the dividing walls of the dimensions alias worlds and arrived Weyard. Floating over a large coast – watching the specific imperiled town, let the stubborn dragon realize, that he had no longer time for refusing Natits suggestion. An indignant sound came out of his throat, before he finally said: "Okay, okay... I do it. But stop finally to annoy me!" Even doing something, which he absolutely didn't want to do, was still better than listening to this damned goody-goody... With a soft grin, the dragonbird answered: "Many thanks. Then, let us waste no important time and start quickly with our ample telepathy. … If you do not mind, I will take the lead in order to lighten our distribution of information."

Secenos nodded simply as a sign of consent.

~ C ~

The phrase 'perfect timing' was – annoyingly – correct in Natits case.

As if the soft-hearted Lugia had expected it, the enemies appeared barely after all mentioned Adepts knew about the attack. But since they were finished with every preparation, the two dragons could easily prevent the Cipher-members from attacking the town. In addition, they offered no chance to the man-made-strengthened humans to the town's mysterious little treasure, which was located in something like a tower outside of the central-point; next to the open water. So, nothing else was now to do then chasing away the unasked guests.

Well, aforesaid persons had of course not much interest into making it easy for the two Guardians. They 'fled' into a forest, where they could take shelter from both advantages of Secenos and Natit: From their commendable flying-skill as well as Natits home-field-advantage of the nearby ocean. This frustrated Reshiram – especially, because his unnecessary-sensitive dragonbird-partner prevented him from simply burning a few trees down. (Not, that this would be in Weyard something like a large sacrifice, but 'alright'... Natit wasn't authoritarian, yet as Melodys best friend, confidant and lover, he was unfortunately able to remember Secenos, how much the young woman preferred always the considerate handling of nature. So, Reshiram did annoyed, what the Lugia said.)

After an half hour, they finally cornered the Cipher-members.

It was a large glade – in the midst of the wood, where Secenos and Natit could 'capture' the foes. Reshiram was already delighted by the thought, to bash the mischievous little dwarfs as a judgment, since they had already injured his back in a stinging way while fighting in the forest... But he was definitely too hasty with his imagination. Because the humans summoned suddenly with their whole remaining power a bunch of almost-black, soulless beasts – a powerful, very dangerous bunch.

The creatures – possessing large as well as small bodies – lunged as quick as a flash at the dragons. Secenos and Natit couldn't do anything else for this moment, than shielding themselves, which was obviously the perfect chance for the Cipher-members. Instead of continuing the battle themselves, they took rather the possibility for escaping alias going home – leaving the entire combat self-satisfied to their practical creations.

~ C ~

"Do not get too close to them!" the unusual harsh words echoed unpleasant through Secenos' brain, while Natit hauled him off with his telekinesis – just in time to prevent several beasts from hitting Reshirams body with a noticeable steaming liquid they spat like fire. But Secenos couldn't be glad about the successful rescue. After he had used the chance for a counter-attack, so that the beasts lay temporary on the ground, he let his anger out: "Could you NOT scream when you use telepathy?! Because the pressure is INTOLERABLE!" Following, he growled bestial in order to show Natit, that he really meant it. Guilt slipped over the Lugias mien, but then he became again focused – distracted again from the beasts.

"Please forgive me. But you are nevertheless too close." ,the dragonbird stated while protecting both of them with a white-golden barrier, "The creatures can harm you immense. Especially those, who can fly like us. You underestimate them and their negative energy... They can poison you – more, than me as a former Shadow-Pokémon. I am already very susceptible for the poisoning, but in your case the damage would be even worse." Secenos ground his fangs. He was too angry... Listening now to Natits worry made him only more aggressive. At the moment, he had no interest into behaving careful and observant like the frustrating dragonbird.

He only wanted to abreact. Instantly.

After they had already wasted lots of minutes with this fight, Reshiram was tired of being cautious. Which was, why he ignored Natits words and dashed fast as lightning between the perilous bunch. The white dragon pushed the small creatures with his claws away, before he discharged subsequent a strong blast-wave of his black-white energy in order to hit all beasts without exception.

His plan would have been infallible, if he had just payed more attention to the small enemies.

But because of his mistake to simply hustle the creatures instead of attacking them with a beam, aforesaid beings recovered quick enough from his strike, so that they could refrain duly from him, before his blast-wave could hit them completely.

Afterwards, the wolf-like beasts used immediately the chance for paying the pain back.

Secenos realized their doing of course, but he wasn't recovered enough from his outbreak of energy, so that he was practically caught between the paralyzed giants and the agile 'dwarfs'. Similar to slow-motion, Reshiram could watch, how a combined black liquid-beam was fired at him.

But when his eyes widened, it was not because of the ache caused by the impacting attack. Actually, he didn't even feel physical pain. He was completely unharmed, although the beam arrived a target. And that was... because someone else took the pain for him.

Natit shielded him with his own body. Protected the embodiment of truth in the last second, before the negative energy could hit him. And in spite of his injury on the left wing, the Lugia focused still the necessary strength in order to counter the false wolfs as well as the other recovered creatures. Summoning a tidal wave of white energy, the dragonbird catapulted the foes a few meters away, where they hit the ground obviously dolorous.

Since the soulless creatures were currently motionless, Natit payed attention to Secenos. Caring, like it was typically for him, the Lugia asked gently: "Are you alright? Did they really not hit you?" Secenos couldn't answer, because he was slowly able to see, what Natits doing meant... When he protected him – shouldered the attack in lieu of Reshiram – his body became at once poisoned... The visible wound of his wing was the best proof for that. The blood-drops possessed an usual, alarming facet of dark-purple color...

"What... have you done...?!" Reshiram said stiflingly. He couldn't breath... Felt something... similar to the so-called feeling 'panic'... Natit, however, stayed tranquil: "Please, calm down. You have to focus for now at the greatest concern. And this is not me, but our opponents. They will recover, which is why you definitely should brace yourself again." "But you...!" Reshiram gasped angrily. "Secenos, it is okay. Really. Do not worry about me. I am alright." the Lugia tried to soothe him.

~ C ~

But he wasn't. Natit was absolutely not alright.

Secenos eyes widened in fear, when the sentimental Lugia suddenly had to air his belly.

Watching now blood instead of vomit on the ground, confirmed Reshiram, how heavy the poisoning of the Lugias body already was. And although, he cared not much for others, Secenos couldn't help in this situation but feeling responsible for his vulnerable nuisance. He had to protect him. Especially, because Natit had willingly sacrificed his health for Secenos' well-being.

And because the Lugia could barely stay awake anymore.

In the meantime sick of the enemies and their actions – as well as somehow completely enraged because of Natits dangerous state – Secenos was determined to make quick work of the beasts. Therefor, he was even willing to demonstrate Natit (if he could even notice it) his new dark ability. Relying on his most negative self-centered feelings, Secenos took at once his gloomy appearance – allowing his dark sides to take his mind completely over.

In his black plumage, Secenos (alias 'Cecil') attacked the creatures before they were fully recovered. He stared mad with his red-colored eyes at them, while he shot over and over his false yet brute fire. It seemed, that the yellow-red heat was deadly for every kind of creature – no matter, if a real one or a men-made like those beasts... And when he used his reserved energy; the piercing white with threatening black on the outside; the effect was even more impressive. He should fear himself because of his volitional destructiveness and the joy for the whole terror, since this degree was even for him too extreme... But he couldn't. Again, he was 'caught' in his most black-hearted self.

In his doing, he destroyed several trees and plants.

And this behavior lasted, until he was finally finished with his task.

Only, when all creatures were definite erased... Only then, Secenos calmed down, so that he stopped the all-embracing destruction. Slowly breathing in, he bethought himself of his real nature. Began, to regenerate his regular inner peace, so that the excessive rage and pugnacity drifted speedy away. It cost him a little concentration, but he turned successful back into his true color-scheme. Or rather, back into his true energy-scheme as well as his real state of mind.

Reshiram went back to his weakened companion. Meanwhile, the Lugia was no longer able to stand – his large body lay powerless at the ground. Actual, he was thankfully not unconscious, but Secenos sensed how close Natit was to lose his awareness. Tss, he shouldn't fight against his need, only because he worried obviously about the embodiment of truth...

Careful, Reshiram placed his strong wings around the dragonbirds body. With caution, the dragon switched Natit unhasty back into his human shape, before he picked the young man finally up; laying him on his (albeit a bit injured) shoulders. When he was sure, that the humanely Lugia wouldn't fall down in any case, Reshiram moved his wings in order to bring the two of them home. However, Secenos knew very well, that he was forced to 'deliver' his companion into the hospital. Which was, why he felt not really alright when he recognized, that Natit became completely awake. In his opinion, the Lugia should better sleep while Space as the best toxicologist would check him, because the Deoxys treated not even poisoned patients gingerly...

~ C ~

The Lugias thankfulness, which he showed when he talked with Secenos as long as the flight lasted, was without any logic. Obviously, he cared not for his injury. He was only glad, that Reshiram hadn't endured any kind of poisoning, too. Also, Natit felt clear relief because of his friends success – plus expressed gratitude for the dragons decision to bring him home. (The humanely Guardian acted always odd in Secenos' eyes – this was nothing new. But his kindhearted, altruistic trait was one of the points which the embodiment of truth couldn't accept at the most...)

Natits gratefulness for Reshirams doing persisted, even when they arrived the hospital. He thanked the white dragon again, before it was time for him to report to the doctor, although it was no secret how much the human Lugia disapproved a forced hospitalization. (It was definitely for sure, that he had to stay for a while here, since this kind of poisoning was no child's play.)

Perhaps this was the reason, why Secenos couldn't simply leave him alone – like he would do, normally. It was not usual for him, to accompany ANYBODY who had to be inspected by Space, but this time it was quasi impossible for the white dragon to follow his selfish instinct. Somehow, he had no choice but to follow his 'responsibility' for his thankful companion.

So, he ended up in the doctor's office, too.

Silently frustrated about himself, he simply sat in his human camouflage on a chair. Watched casual, how Natit had to endure Space' goal-oriented, non-gentle handling. After the Deoxys had checked the whole state of Natits health, the real horror began – the moment, when Secenos would normally (as well as instantly) go out. But well, there he was: Staying more or less by Natits side, while aforesaid guy was forced to get through Space' therapy in order to cure the magical poisoning. Something, which Secenos certainly not envied...

Without any cloth – like always, when he was a continuing patient of the clinic, since he lay mostly under a blanket as long as no doctor checked his health – the human dragonbird sat on a chair, too, so that Space could medicate by the way his injured left arm. Not, that the simple disinfecting or bandaging could be as tough, as the true therapy... Space harsh treatment – including his words – meant the main-reason, why Secenos couldn't have fun while watching, how Natit became insulted because of his over-protective behavior. (Normally, he would have, but this moment was different.) And to see, how the Deoxys gave Natit uncountable medicine as well as some medical-shots, perfected the ill feeling the dragon in disguise recognized in his stomach.

He wondered, how Natit was able to endure that without any sort of complaining...

After the therapy was over, the human Lugia went into his private sickroom, where he fall under Secenos' surprised gaze at once asleep. This occurred probably thanks to the debility of both things – the battle and the 'care' of Space. At least, this was the most logical explanation. Plus... Only now, Secenos could realize the true degree of Natits outspent state of health. He should have understood it earlier because of a simple fact, surely... (Effective, it was clearly strange when Natit didn't show his typical uncertainty, which always appeared when others than Melody and Space as his doctor saw his human body with no single piece of clothing.) But empathy was not even in situations like this one his strength, so that Secenos grasped like always too late, how impressive Natit truly was... Which was, why he had no chance in order to show the Lugia – at least – a tiny bit of his approval. For though, that he felt no respect for Natit, he still possessed some preference for him...

Not, that this was more than simple tolerance. But in moments like this, the dragon in disguise knew how important it would be to reassure Natit, that his good will and his help were not really wasted. Maybe Secenos acted in his ego always, as if he needed no support by others (than perhaps Melody and his friends from Unova)... But actually, he was in secret glad for the Lugias selflessness.

~ C ~

"...And you didn't come back instantly, because...?" the annoying nerd asked harshly.

Secenos bore down a frustrated growl, before he replied with buried hands in his jacket-pockets: "Natit was my partner in this task – as you wanted from me. So, I was responsible for making sure, that he would be healed successful. After all, this is, what you all always want from me. Being more 'considerate' and 'attentive' while dealing with others." "No need, to be cynical." ,Key stated gruff, "In this case, you should have informed me about his health-status via a call. Moreover, you are currently alone in charge for the whole mission, so that I hope or rather advise, that you guys didn't turn the whole environment into a ruined mess. Because you will be then the one, who has to bear every complaint which the inhabitants of this place could have."

"As you wish..." the dragon in disguise mumbled angrily.

"And by the way..." ,the ex-biker continued precise without paying attention to Secenos' frustration, "Until Natit is recovered, you will take his place." Almost, Secenos choked on his own spit. "WHAT?!" he coughed short-taken. Disbelieving, he stared into the uninterested amber-eyes. "Clearly said: You are now the main-leader. As it's quasi your fault, that Natit is after a long time again poisoned by the negative energy – and so unable to act as Melodys locum – it's now your job to support all Guardians and to be a good example for them. No other leading Guardian is currently around in order to do this, so you – as the second-strongest exemplar – are in charge."

He... couldn't believe it. Key really forced him... to do THIS...?!

Damned, NO! Only, because he possessed – theoretical – the responsibility as a leader to behave as someone who guided all Guardians who are not as strong as him, he was nevertheless no ideal! Plus, everyone who was not from Unova refused and perhaps hated him...!

Secenos couldn't help, but to wreak havoc. Impulsive, he pushed three piles of paper from a desk and struck following against aforesaid piece of furniture, so that his fingernails scratched deeply into the wood. Being beside himself with rage, he snarled: "Forget it! I'm not willing to do this! Playing the part as the temporary head is NOT my duty! Operating with others is nothing for me – and guiding others is in any event also moronism! I DON'T DO THIS!"

A simple human should fear him now... A simple human should run away from him.

But not Key. The stubborn genius without any special energy or magical talent wasn't afraid. Instead, he possessed the giant cheekiness to argue with him – to run a long, exhausting discussion, in which the nerd had to mention Secenos' responsibility for Natit and furthermore Melody. Remembering with that single name, that there was a reason for him – his protégé – for staying still in this frustrating world in lieu of simply sleeping for eternities, the dragon in disguise slowly started to lose his wrath. Of course, his frustration and averseness remained, but he was gradually forced to accept this temporarily duty.

Finally, he gave reluctant in.

~ C ~

A sigh left his mouth, while he sat on a chair next to a specific bed.

"Are you... honestly sure about it...? Secenos, you can still refuse this task."

Natits worried eyes studied him intense. He had to grin about this. "It's... acceptable, somehow. Above all, these four days were not as bad, as I had expected." "But still... you suffer because of this duty which was never meant to be yours. Since you visit me every day, I am able to tell that. Surely you inform me only about the current news – never complaining about your state – but... Seriously, I think you overdo it. I sense so much... effeteness in your presence."

It was in fact offending, to hear such words from someone, who was at the moment hospitalized because of the effects of a heavy poisoning. Because of that, Secenos stared poutful at Natit: "Maybe YOU shouldn't say something like that. After all, you're not in the position for telling me, that I'm 'powerless' or 'exhausted'." The human Lugia nestled down into his cushion, before he replied with a shy smile: "Probably, you are right... But what should I do, otherwise? I am caught in this place until Space allows me to leave it. So, I can only express my worry about you with words. There is no other way in order to show you, that I feel guilt because of the demand of Key." Snorting, the dragon in disguise shook minimal his humanely head: "Don't care for that. It's really nothing more but the same old story, that he wants to annoy me. So, no big deal."

"And the others...? Do they... not bother you...? Do they... accept your authority as a temporal locum of myself as well as Melody...? Are you sure... that you can endure the way how they treat you...?" Natits way too soft voice frustrated him. The worry was endurable... but this sensitive behavior – including so much humbleness – depredated slowly Secenos' patience. "I am fine, you know...?! So, can you accept this without asking stupid questions...?" he complained ruggedly.

Natit studied him for a moment without any expression. Furrowed his browns a little bit after several seconds. But obviously, he understood, that Secenos didn't want to consider his most-hated topic about living together with others. "Alright... Then, I hope, that you do not have to wait long until I am again strong enough in order to continue my assignment." the human Lugia said abashed. "Pfft, don't stress yourself." ,Secenos replied casual while standing up, "I guess, I survive three or – as for me – perhaps four additional days as the main-leader of Guardians. Don't worry."

Not, that he felt like it, but for now, he should better leave.

It was already dark outside – and the humanely dragonbird needed still rest.

He walked without any haste to the door. Yet, before opening it, he payed again attention to Natit – added parenthetic while looking at him: "Just recover properly. Nothing else counts at the moment." "Thank you very much..." ,the human dragonbird said moved, "And please, take care."

~ C ~

Secenos petrified suddenly.

Because the door opened before he could press the doorknob.

Astonished by the view he got, he couldn't believe his own eyes, since the unexpected happening meant nothing else but his exoneration from the undesired duty. So, he brought the new guest accidentally to put a smile on – with his widened eyes and the over-strained expression.

"Hehe, do I look latterly so awful, that your eyes want to pop out?" Melody asked him playful. Shaking his head, he replied: "I just didn't expect to see you now. But seemingly, you finished betimes the long-lasting job Key gave you." "Yes, that's true. The others and me were earlier than anticipated successful with our task. However, not quickly enough, as it seems... I'm sorry for everything you had to do in the last days against your will." she explained worried.

As he didn't answer, Melody payed now attention to Natit: "I'm also sorry for your hospitalization... Key informed me not until I came back about your state of health. So, I didn't know, what happened to the two of you... I hope, you don't think, that I would have forgotten you..." Natit closed smiling his eyes: "I could never believe this. Do not fear such an unrealistic possibility."

Silent, Secenos watched, how Melody walked to the bed. "That's a great relief... Thank you. Nevertheless, I wasn't by your side. And this shouldn't occur, since I am your partner." she stated. "But now, you are here. And this is everything, which counts for me." the humanely Lugia replied. After those words, Melody sat down and embraced the young man.

A few muscles of Reshiram vellicated.

This hugging was... strange. It was in a way, like she touched nobody else...

Surely, it was normal for her to cuddle with her Guardians; no matter, how small or large they were. It was nothing special, when she embraced her friends. Yet, the way, how she caressed Natit now, was completely different... It was full of... deeper sentiment.

Secenos narrowed his eyes.

This here... was the emotion, which she felt only for the soft Lugia... And she proofed it, because suddenly she kissed the guy in her arms. Which he answered – in an unexpected passionate way. Passion, that he only showed when Melody was near to him. Passion, which he perhaps couldn't even feel without her... Not even music could quicken Natits mind, like she did with him, although the Lugia shared Reshirams fascination for this special kind of sound.

Without any noise, Secenos gazed motionless at the emotional scene. He felt like a stalker, but still, it was impossible for him to look away... His eyes were eager to see that, what they always wanted to observe with full attention: Melody, who showed endless desire.

Stiff like a corpse, he simply stand in the door and followed this passionate kiss.

Watched, how Natit pressed her gently against his chest, while she was busy with fondling his lips. And since both had closed eyes, it seemed as if they felt no longer anything else but each other... Their heat was like a sickness – it infected Secenos. As if fire would burn around him, he felt soon very uncomfortable in his personal situation. He wanted to be on this mattress, too... He wanted also those sweetish lips of hers on his own, dry mouth... It drove him crazy, to be excluded...

Although, he felt so intense the raising arousal... he wasn't jealous of Natit. Not even in this second, when the couple obviously shared a so-called french-kiss. But instead, it made him... sick to see, how much Melody could be willing to give a special kind of attention. He really wanted this, too... He wanted the accurate passion she gave the dragonbird. To 'dive' into her would be so... fulfilling, if he could just have her complete fervor. This, what Natit had...

Nevertheless...

Secenos wasn't blind... And exceptionally, the dragon in disguise could grasp something...

He realized, that this – what he saw now – was no superficial passion. Nothing, which he could obtain so easily... Not even, if she would feel this fervor for him, that he could watch currently. Because the passion alone wasn't the real emotion she possessed...

It was love. Something, which he didn't understand. Something, which he couldn't use... Something... truly foreign for him. It was a sympathy, which he didn't knew, personally. He was not 'emotional' or whatever enough in order to really grasp that sentiment. And so... He had no idea, what it meant to 'love' someone.

When this was, what it required to get Melody for oneself, then he had no plan or even brainstorm, how he should accomplish it to let her fall in love with him. Because... it wouldn't be fair. Obviously, he would never be able to answer this feeling... So... What should he do with her after such an unique moment between the two of them, if she would... feel THIS for him? How should he ever handle it, to treat her like an one-night-stand in the case, that she developed for him... similar, strong emotions, like she clearly felt for Natit...?

Secenos gulped hardly because of his realization. After all, one thing was for sure: He couldn't be as gentle and sensitive, like the Lugia with a human soul. He couldn't... fill himself up with positive, affectionate sentiments for Melody as the dragonbird possessed... If Natit was in one case better than Secenos, then it was this single topic. Because Natit... defeated his own weaknesses for her, only because of the clear love he felt for Melody. Visible enough, that even Secenos could realize, what the real trump-card was in order to get her for oneself...

~ C ~

When he entered his own room, he felt very sick.

This wasn't the fault of his brand-new impressions, but of his completely bad timing...

As if this thing liked it, to tantalize him, this supernatural scar on his right arm started again to work – with so much strength, that he thought the negative energy from it would demolish his head. Or, that the injury would rupture his arm before...

Grinding his fangs, the dragon in disguise sat down on an armchair. Gasped for breath.

Like he had feared before, the malaise of his scar appeared (of all things in this one evening) finally with it's full force. It caused him pain in his whole body and mind – worse, than the specific second while fighting a few days ago. The human agony was this time strong enough, that he couldn't even fight it back with his 'inner-monster', so that he hadn't the advantage of being 'Cecil'.

Secenos had no other choice, but forcing himself now to lay down on the bed and to sleep instantly. There was no further possibility for sparing himself with that sick, annoying malaise. Currently not. At the moment, he refused to become an 'addict' because of his only 'medicine' – he was too proud. Additional, his 'last time' was several weeks ago, which was why he couldn't trust himself to use overhasty the last trump-card he had. Without some strong reserves of willpower, he would overdo the use of that stuff too easily, since he felt no sanitary drawback...

After his cloth were removed and his body rolled-up under the blanket, Secenos squinted his eyes. He had enormous headache, which was even stronger than this mental distress... Angrily groaning, the dragon in disguise let his hands hold his hurting temples, although his injured arm 'burned' now as massive as if fire would glide over it. He hated it, to admit this, but he realized, that his madness would definitely return more frequently in the next time...

Secenos couldn't help, but to scream animalistic, yet desperate amongst his personal insanity...