Chapter 7:

Awakening

Asuka knew she didn't have much time. She had to act now or she'd never get another chance! If it's really shadows, then… Unfortunately, only one solution presented itself to her mind, and it wasn't a pleasant one. Reaching into her coat, she withdrew a palm sized, cylindrical object. With a flick of her thumb, she'd pulled the pin, and tossed the grenade away. Don't take too long; now! She covered her ears as best she could with her revolver still in hand as she squeezed her eyes shut. "…This is gonna suck…"

Not a moment too soon, the flashbang grenade she'd dropped set off. A deafening bang filled the room, and even with her eyes closed she could see the flash. "Ghaaagh!" She cried out, falling to the ground. In spite of her efforts to dull the effect, the grenade did its job all too well. Asuka's eyes shot open and in spite of her blurred vision she could tell that the shadows had been dispelled, but there was no telling how long that would last.

Struggling to keep her balance long enough to make her escape, Asuka staggered to the door. Fumbling with the knob for a moment, she threw it open. Stepping through, she practically collapsed into the hallway on the other side, slamming the door behind her as she went.

Breathing heavily, Asuka struggled to regain her senses. "Ghgh… Aaagh… Dangit, that hurts…" Swallowing back her forced breath, she tried to assess the situation. What was that? Shadows are trying to kill me!? What the heck is going on here!?

"Growlithe!"

"Aro!"

Growlithe leapt into Batou's arms as the boy held him tightly. "Aw, I've missed you buddy!"

"He's a very well natured Pokémon," the bright eyed young officer escorting Batou commented. "We haven't had any trouble with him, unlike that Mawile your friend has…"

"Huh? Mawile?"

The officer nodded. "She put up quite a fight. …I don't think she's very well trained. We actually had to reinforce the lock on her pokéball."

Batou frowned a little, glancing around the room they were in. Rows of pokéballs sat on small shelves, inside of special locking mechanism that apparently reinforced the pokéball's mechanics. "Wow, really? That's a bit harsh."

The young officer folded his arms sympathetically. "It's not that I disagree, but this is a police station. We can't just have the Pokémon of suspected criminals running around freely."

"I guess… I still feel bad for them though."

"Taking away freedom is never something to be done lightly. But, sometimes it's necessary to reach the truth, and to protect the safety of others. Don't worry though! We're the good guys here! That means we'll always strive toward fairness and justice!" the officer stated passionately. His eyes actually sparkled at the chance to expound the virtues of his profession.

"Whoa! So cool!" If his reaction was any indication, Batou was impressed.

"Yes!" the officer stated confidently, bristling with pride.

"Hm… Hey, but wait. At the end of the day, you did lock up me and my friends, and all of our Pokémon, and we're all basically innocent right? So, was that fair and just?" Batou asked earnestly.

"W-well, no… but, uh… Urk!" the officer's face contorted in horror as he realized for the first time that he'd been a party to some form of injustice. "W-well, all we can really do is seek out justice to the best of our ability. We're only human though, so mistakes do happen. …Right?" he explained, tentatively pressing his forefingers together uncertainly.

Batou considered this for a moment. "Yeah. So, I guess 'justice' is just… trying your best?"

"Aaaaaaahhh…." The officer seemed to be having a hard time deciding whether this was true or not. He didn't get the chance to conclude his thought however, as a loud bang echoing though out the hall caught both of their attentions.

"What was that?" Batou asked, his voice shaking a little bit. If the previous day had taught him anything, it's that loud bangs usually aren't good signs.

"I recognize that sound…" the officer said. "It's a stun grenade! A weapon which contains the brilliant light of justice to fell evil!" he paused smirking slightly. "…Or, something like that…"

Batou glanced at Growlithe. Growlithe didn't return his gaze, instead casting his own down the hallway, a hard look in his eyes. "Something's wrong."

"I agree. I'm afraid our conversation is over," the officer said, urging Batou out of the room as he locked the door behind him. "Please, escort yourself the rest of the way out. I must investigate the source of this disturbance."

Batou turned down the hallway in the direction the officer was urging him to go, but he made no attempt to go on his way. He wasn't happy with how things had turned out at the Pokémon Center. It felt like he didn't do enough to help when he could… He didn't want to run from a situation where he could help again. But other than that, there was another reason why he couldn't just leave. "U-uh… Officer…"

"What? Oh, I'm sorry. I suppose you don't know the way. Just follow the…" the officer said, turning to face Batou, but when he did, he saw the same sight which had given Batou pause. "…Actually, get behind me."

Batou didn't move. He only watched as a man in a dark longcoat calmly walked toward them, a wicked pair of blades at his side. The man didn't seem especially tall. He was taller than Batou, but matched the young officer in height, his black hair and coat playing a contrast to the officers blonde hair and blue uniform as the officer took it upon himself to get between Batou and this new intruder. "Hold there," he called. "I'm afraid this area is restricted. I must ask you to leave. Now."

The man in black stopped long enough to scrutinize Batou and the young officer. "You're not the one I'm looking for. Neither is the kid," he stated in a cold tone. "If you want to live, get out of my way."

"You sir, threaten an officer of the law!" the officer declared. He quickly drew a pokéball from his belt, throwing it out before him. "Let's go, Seeker!" From its light emerged a Growlithe, fully grown and at least twice the size of Batou's. Batou glanced at Growlithe in his arms briefly. He couldn't help but giggle at Growlithe's expression. He apparently didn't like the obvious comparison.

The man in black's lip curled upward at the sight of the Pokémon. "This is what you want?"

"What I want," the officer declared with a heroic smile, "is justice! My name is Justin Lawe, and in the name of the law…" he said with a dramatic flourish, pointing his finger at his opponent, "…I will bring you to justice!"

Batou stared in wide eyed awe. Suddenly, his quirky little escort officer seemed rather heroic indeed.

The man in black let out a huff. "Fine…" He reached to his side, drawing forth his katana. "My name is Ryu. What I do is in the name of my own 'justice'." He held his blade outward with one hand as he slowly leveled it, pointing the tip directly at Seeker. "Just remember… You chose this."

Justin scoffed. "So that's it… The age of bloodshed has long since passed. You should abandon your weapons as the relics they are of a darker era!"

"Funny," Ryu answered, a cold glare in his eyes. "I've seen far more blood shed by fang and by claw than by blade. So maybe, you're just a naïve fool."

"Heh." Justin smiled. "That I am. But you know what?" he asked, the smile on his face only growing wider. "The truth is I really believe the words I say! There's more power in my naïve hope than there will ever be in your cynicism!"

"I see…" Ryu drew back his blade, gripping it with both hands as he assumed a fighting stance. "Show me."

It didn't matter how comfortable the room was. A prison was still a prison. Luna sat quietly on a surprisingly comfortable couch, in a nice, pleasant room. She was alone. She knew she was completely alone, but that didn't give her any comfort.

A dark sadness had fallen over Luna. Soon, I'll be back in Sinnoh. Father will be mad, but he won't show it. He'll insist that I'm watched by doctors day and night for my own good. He'll do everything he can to save me, and it doesn't matter how much it costs… She let out a sigh. It's not that I'm not grateful. I am, it's just… I don't want to spend the rest of my life as a science experiment. Is that so wrong?

…They can't help me there. I know that. They must know it too, but it's their jobs to try. And if it's not, dad will just pay them enough so it is… That's just… Luna fell to the side, resting her head against the arm of the couch. I'm not spoiled, am I? I mean, yeah, I never went wanting. I got anything I asked for as a kid; b-but I never asked for that much! …People, always went out of their way for me, and I never even noticed.

Luna made a fist, punching into the couch. Slowly she brought herself back up to a sitting position. "Is that why it bothers me so much…? Or is it…?" Her mind shot back to what Tavor had told her. "…It's true… I have to do this myself. No one else can." Resolve had welled up within her. Now that she had it, there was no way she was letting it go!

Jumping to her feet, Luna made her way to the door. She knew it was locked, but she tried it anyway. When it didn't work, she banged against it, shouting, "Hey! Let me out of here! I'm not staying! I refuse to stay!"

There was no answer from the other side. Luna knew shouting was pointless, so she focused her energy toward something else. I'm not staying here… I'm not. I'm not a criminal; they know that, and now… "Now, I'm leaving!" She felt energy surging through her. It was becoming a familiar feeling. She wasn't sure what it was exactly, but somehow, whenever she made up her mind to do something she just felt stronger. She felt like she could do anything. And now, that meant she felt like she was going to open that door!

Luna threw her shoulder into the door. Somewhere deep inside, she knew it should hurt, and that it should just fail miserably. It's not easy to break down a door… Yet in spite of that; in spite of all reason to the contrary, the door strained and groaned against her attack… and then gave way.

…It still hurt though. Crying out at the stinging pain in her shoulder, Luna staggered into the hallway. "Scha-ah…! That hurt! A-ahgh…" Nursing her aching shoulder with a groan, she glanced down the hallway. She'd expected a guard, but the horror of what she actually saw made her forget to breathe. Silence hung eerily in the hallway as Luna saw two forms, one that of her human guard and the other of a faithful Stoutland, each slumped against the wall, streaks of blood pooling outward where they lay.

The walls were chipped and fragmented. This wasn't her doing; a terrible battle had occurred here, and the guards placed to keep her inside… were the ones who lost. Luna's heart stopped as a bang echoed through the hallway from behind her. It was not a sound she'd ever heard before, but the report was unmistakable. It was the sound of a gunshot.

"Ah. There you are."

Asuka jolted. Swinging her revolver outward with both hands she leveled its barrel at the voice which had just spoken. Before her stood a tall man with silver hair. He smiled, but it was a sinister smile. Asuka knew better to trust his intentions, even if she hadn't just been attacked. "Who're you?" she asked, performing admirably at steadying her breath.

"Oh, no one so interesting as you, I'm sure. Miss Asuka Kiske: Inept Interpol Agent."

"You should take that act on the road. I've got a few destinations I could recommend…"

"Ooh! Is that a threat?"

"I don't make threats."

"So a promise then? Shall we travel together down the road of depravity!?"

"…What?" Asuka grimaced. Looks like I lost that one… I have, nothing to say to that.

The man smirked. He began to giggle unevenly, covering his face in his hands. "Oooh, yeah!" he shouted, throwing his hand to the side. The look in his eyes as he stared down Asuka's glare could only be described as 'pure evil'. "I can tell! This is going to be a fun game!"

Asuka stared down the man. The situation was tense, and she knew it was inevitably going to explode into violence. The gun in her hands felt so natural; it would be easy to put this lunatic on the ground. One reason…

"I'm glad Shikyo didn't get to you first!" the man shouted. "Now I'm going to enjoy this fight! Today, you face the elite of Team Aura, and I, Quinn Zandred shall be your partner!" In a calmer tone he added. "Oops. I guess I shouldn't have told you all that… Oh well! You know what they say about dead birds!"

"That's all I needed to hear." Asuka had a name, for both the man and his organization. She'd sort out the rest when the dust settled. In one steady motion she eased back the trigger. As the heavy recoil rattled her arm, Quinn staggered back as the weight of the bullet struck him near the shoulder. He slumped over, but he didn't fall. He stood eerily, his head and arms hanging limply even as his feet stood firm.

An eerie laughter escaped the man as Asuka stared at him in disbelief. It can't be… As Quinn's laughter eased, he took a breath, and said, "…That won't work. We're not playing that game. It's against the rules to shoot me." Raising his head, he sneered madly. "Foul."

"Wait, hold on," Batou said, stepping up alongside Justin. As he spoke, Growlithe hopped down to join up beside Seeker. "We can't let you fight alone."

"That's kind of you," Justin began in a reluctant tone, "but I can't condone a civilian putting himself in danger on my account. I must ask you to please stay on the sidelines."

Batou grinned. "Yeah, okay. But, as a civilian, I don't really have to do what you say either, right?"

"Wh-what…? B-but… I, er…" Justin stammered, quickly growing flustered. "That's… Th-that's not right! No!"

"Haha! I got ya! It totally don't have to listen to you at all, right!?"

Ryu sighed. "Ugh. This is real cute and all, but I'm not going to just sit here and let you guys strategize… I can hear you anyway; it's not like this meeting of minds is going anywhere profound. So, I'll say this one, last, time… Get out of my way, or I will go through you."

"See, this is what I'm talking about!" Batou said pointing at Ryu. Ryu raised an eyebrow as Batou explained, "This guy has a sword. You don't have a defense for that. Seeker will get torn apart."

"I'm not going to just let him by," Justin insisted. "We have to at least try to stop him. And your Growlithe isn't any better suited than mine."

"No, but I am," Batou said, stepping forward. From a yellow ball, Batou called forth his Scyther Edge sword. Gripping it with both hands, he leveled it in a fighting stance. "Defense is my specialty!"

"Oh, right," Justin said apologetically. "I forgot you had that. I hope you weren't offended earlier when I- hey, wait; that's even more dangerous! And why the heck did we give that back to you anyway!? Nevermind; I cannot allow you to fight!"

"It's out of our hands now!" Batou exclaimed. "This is happening, so we're going to have to work together. Just trust me on this!"

Ryu smirked. "Huh. So you'll counter my blade with your own. Not a bad strategy, but… I think you'll find that there's no defense… for me." Then letting out a sigh, he added. "I've let this continue long enough. If you idiots really intend to fight me, I can't be held accountable for what'll happen. I hope you're ready"

"Ghgh…" Justin grit his teeth. "Fine. Be careful Batou."

"I know. Let's do this Growlithe!"

"Growli-!" came Growlithe's affirmative response.

Ryu broke forward, and as he did Batou rushed to intercept, Growlithe following closely by his side.

"Seeker, get around him!" Justin commanded.

"Growli!"

Ryu lashed out with his blade. He was wickedly fast, but Batou was able to parry. He's quick. He's not going to leave me much time for anything but defense. In a blur, Ryu had spun around, and slashed at Growlithe. Once again, Batou intervened, blocking Ryu's blade with his own. He's changing targets too. This guy's used to fighting multiple opponents… As the thought flashed across his mind, Ryu kicked low, sweeping out Batou's legs and causing him to tumble to the ground with a squeal. "Gygh!"

As Batou fell, Growlithe leapt in, lunging for Ryu's head, but the swordsman was too fast, and Growlithe flew harmlessly by. At the same time, Seeker rounded about, behind him, ready to strike. "Good! Take Down!" came Justin's command.

Seeker lunged forward, leaping at Ryu. Suddenly Justin amended his command. "W-wait, look out!" With a jerk, Seeker pulled himself back. Ryu had reached down with his left hand and quick drawn his spare sword. The tip of the blade grazed Seeker's flesh, sending a flick of blood against the wall. Seeker landed heavily on his feet, hopping back with a growl as he gained some ground. In the same instant, Ryu's spare sword was once again sheathed.

Sheesh. Draw out attacks too!? This guy's just… way better than me… At the same time, Batou rolled back, getting onto a knee as he swung out his sword, preparing for his next move. "Over here!" he shouted. Swinging his sword forward, Batou watched as Ryu moved to parry, but the attack was a feint. Instead of striking, Batou let his sword fall before him defensively. As he was doing this, Growlithe had leapt into the air. He spat a ball of explosive flame from his 'Flame Burst' attack. Still reacting quickly, Ryu weaved just barely out of the way. The Flame Burst hit the ground, exploding between Ryu and Batou. The embers it created singed at Ryu's legs, and reflected off of Batou's sword, spraying heat at Ryu's face.

"Gyagh!" Ryu cried out, leaping away toward the wall. He didn't seem to be injured, but it was always meant to be an attack at his vision. Batou knew from experience how uncomfortable Ryu must be feeling now…

"Seeker! Flamethrower!" Justin commanded.

Pulling back his head, Seeker roared, loosing a stream of fire at Ryu.

Gritting his teeth, Ryu turned, bounding up the wall, evading the attack entirely. Kicking off he agilely flipped through the air over Batou's head. …Ugh. At this point, I'm not even surprised anymore! When he landed he was immediately on the offensive. He slashed at Batou, and when the blow was parried, he struck again with a quick draw attack. Batou was able to guard the second attack as well, but he was unbalanced, sent sliding along the slick floor by the furious weight of the attack.

Immediately, Ryu had turned, rushing for Justin this time. "No! Don't!" Batou cried. Justin glared at Ryu defiantly as he approached, Growlithe and Seeker both chasing after Ryu unbidden. Ryu's blade came down with an overhead swing as he reached Justin, but Justin dodged to the side. Quickly turning his blade, Ryu slashed horizontally, sending a streak and clang of metal across the wall as Justin ducked under the attack.

Justin punched, but his attack was caught by Ryu's left hand. Ryu swung his sword, but he was too close now, as Justin grabbed his arm, tackling him to the ground. Raising a leg, Ryu kicked Justin off of him with surprising force, sending him flying into the door of the Pokémon storage room with a heavy thud.

Justin collapsed to the floor with a cry of pain. As Ryu rose to his feet, a loud bang echoed down the hall. The report of the gunshot stirred Justin enough for him to forget about his pain for a moment. "Agh. Miss Asuka. This is bad."

Ryu scoffed humorlessly. "Hmph… A gun won't stop him. It's useless." Just then, Growlithe and Seeker reached Ryu, Batou trailing not far behind. In a blur of blinding speed, Seeker reached him first, lunging through the air, but Ryu took one swift swing with his sword. Seeker had learned from his last mistake, feinting out of the way, landing beside Justin with a defensive growl.

In Seeker's wake followed Growlithe, sparks of electricity erupting from his fur. In a blur of energy, Growlithe streaked by Ryu, grazing him in the shoulder. Ryu cried out as a surge of electricity jolted through his body. "Whoa, that was cool Growlithe!" Batou called. "When'd you learn to do that!?" Batou swung his sword, but the attack was blocked, locking with Ryu's blade.

Growlithe grinned in satisfaction, while Ryu glared, locking eyes with Batou. "You, could never beat me alone!"

"Yeah," Batou agreed, "but I'm not alone. We're stronger together!"

"You're pathetic!" Ryu screamed angrily, smashing his head against Batou's, and then swinging his sword out and sending Batou skidding back. A new pair of gunshots echoed through the hall, but Ryu made no response to them. With a growl, he shouted, "I've had it with these games!" as he drew out his second blade. "Now! You can all, just die!"

With an uncharacteristically wide swing of both blades, Ryu began his attack, but did not close the distance on any of his targets, who at this moment, happened to be Justin and Seeker. Sensing the danger, the two scattered out of the way. As Ryu's blades swung through the air, a blade of air sliced forward, cleaving a gash in the door and nearby wall where the two of them had just stood!

Wh-what!? B-but I…! That's not even, possible! Batou's mind raced to come to terms with what he'd just seen. Wait, is it? No, it couldn't be… Unless…? …This guy. He's… I-I'm not even capable of reaching his level. There was only one explanation Batou could think of for Ryu's newly revealed power. He didn't like it, but it could be nothing else.

Somehow… Ryu's manipulating that Aura power… He's using it to extend his swords with the air itself! Ryu laughed, turning to face Batou. In spite of himself, Batou paled a bit beneath his gaze. "So tell me boy! You think you can defend against my blade, but I ask you! Can you ever hope to defend against the air you breathe!?"

"U-uh…!" Batou stammered, "W-well I…"

"You can't!" Ryu shouted, his scream punctuated by a bang from behind the door of the Pokémon storage room. "So just," another bang, this one even louder, "die!" A third bang. "Ghgh!?" This one Ryu could not ignore, as the door flew from its hinges, directly at him. A look of surprise flashed in his eyes. Ryu slashed with his blades, cleaving the door in two as its pieces crashed heavily against the wall.

"Maaaaaaaaaaaaaa-" A battle cry echoed through the hall as a small form burst forth from the storage room.

"I-is that!?" Batou shouted with a start.

"Oh no," Justin muttered, a look of mild horror on his face.

"…!?" Ryu didn't have time to say anything…

"-wile e maaiimaaaa!" Suddenly, Mawile had burst forth from the storage room where she'd been held prisoner. She swung her horn, slamming into Ryu from the side with incredible force. Batou barely had time to squeeze up along the wall as Ryu flew past him, skidding, bouncing, and bashing against the floor and off the walls before finally sliding to a stop.

Batou gawked at Ryu as he lay motionless on the floor. "U-uh…? I-is…?" Uhm, is he dead…?

Justin winced as Mawile turned her attention to him with a frightening glare. "U-uh… H-hi there…"

Mawile simply scoffed, turning away from him with a huff.

"U-uh? I-I'm… beneath you, huh?"

Mawile nodded haughtily.

Growlithe and Seeker each looked to Mawile with equal parts horror and admiration. Batou turned his attention to her as well. S-so… I guess, the real hero… has arrived.

As if sensing his thoughts, Mawile beamed with a sort of 'smug satisfaction'. A broad grin spread across her face. "Maa-ee."

…Why do I feel like I've just been insulted…?

Everything hurt. With a groan, Ryu stirred. Struggling with both hands, he forced himself off the floor. His knuckles hurt, gripping tightly to his swords. He didn't know how he'd had the presence of mind to hold onto them, but he had. "Gha-…ghaaaagh…." With more effort than he'd care to admit, Ryu forced himself to stand. He teetered unsteadily for a moment before staggering to the side and leaning against the wall. Ack… My chest is killing me. That little monster… If it'd hit me any harder, I'd be dead.

Breathing heavily, Ryu faced down the hall. Slowly it dawned on him just how far he'd been knocked away. He was standing further from his opponents now than before the fight began. That far? Dang… I really could have died! "A-agh…" He winced in pain. It must have fractured my ribs… But how badly? It couldn't be that bad if I can still stand.

No matter how he tried to reason it, his condition wasn't good. The smart thing to do would be to cut his losses and get out. However, he couldn't accept that. After all of this; I've come so close, and now I need to flee? No... It can't... He cast his gaze toward his opponents. With a start, Ryu realized their number had grown yet again. A small Piplup had joined the group, presumably following in the vicious Mawile's wake. The boy, the officer had referred to him as Batou earlier, was the first to notice it. "Hey, I remember you! Out and about too, huh?" he chirped in a disgustingly friendly tone.

Tch. Idiot. Don't talk to them like they're people. Ryu grit his teeth, holding back his tongue. Now wasn't the time. The Piplup chirped back at Batou. It seemed to be in good spirits, but Ryu made no attempt to follow it's gibberish. It was all just noise anyway.

"Haha!" Batou laughed. "It musta sucked, huh? Being stuck in there all this time." Piplup angrily shouted its response, clearly agitated. "Heheh! Sorry. I'm just glad you're free now!" Wh-what a moron! He's actually having a conversation with it!?

"Hey now," Justin remarked. "It almost feels like you're making the police out to be the bad guys... Stop..." he pleaded, almost whining. Ugh. I can't believe I'm being held off by these idiots!

Batou laughed. Even Piplup seemed to find the officers whining amusing. But then Batou seemed to notice yet another figure from the storage room. "H-huh!? Hey, how did you get here?"

"That's... a really good question..." Justin remarked in a suspicious tone.

As he was addressed the figure emerged from the room into the hallway. He was an unassuming looking fellow, with bright purple hair, and a pair of glasses across his face. The man said nothing, tilting his head slightly with a smile.

"Eh? Gene?" Batou asked.

Gene's smile faded a bit, but he seemed to dismiss the question, instead turning toward Ryu. Ryu's stomach curled as the man's eyes fell upon him. They held such an imposing glare that Ryu could only describe the man's gaze as 'lethal'.

This must be the Mawile's trainer. ...He's not going to hold back. If I'm not careful about my next move, I won't be walking away from this at all. "Eh?" Batou shrunk back a little, a confused look on his face. "Uh, Gene? You're, being a little bit scary, ya know?"

"Quiet," Justin urged gingerly. "He's got the right idea. We've more important matters to deal with."

Batou frowned a little, but turned his blade toward Ryu with renewed determination. "Kay. I'm ready! Let's finish what this guy started!"

Growlithe, Seeker, and Piplup all set up in front of Batou, ready to join the fight as well. Then there was the Mawile. Ever since he'd stirred, Ryu had felt its gaze locked onto him. It wouldn't hesitate to move if it needed to. Whatever he did next, Ryu knew he would have to account for it.

So, four monsters, the boy, and a worthless trainer. Plus this 'Gene'... I can't be certain of his capabilities yet. Agh. I'm all for challenging odds but this is getting ridiculous! In spite of his mounting concern, Ryu's demeanor remained even. "Heh. Did you all... forget where we left off?" Just one. If I can finish just one of them, I can come out ahead. Ryu smirked. Ignoring the pain it caused him, he stood freely in the center of the hallway, clashing his swords together. "Let me remind you. ...You cannot defend against the wind!"

The Mawile was the first to move. As expected. As it dashed forward, Ryu swung his blade at it, sending a blade of air flying toward the monster. Slamming its horn into the ground, Mawile propelled itself into the air, evading the air slash entirely. In spite of his own concern, Ryu actually hadn't planned on that, and could only glare. Fortunately, he had anticipated that the rest of the group would attempt to move in at him in Mawile's wake. Clashing both of his blades together, Ryu focused his energy. Aura... "Hurricane!" Ryu swung with both blades, and from them shot forth a torrent of slicing air, crushing winds, and deafening noise!

"Wh-whoa!?" Batou cried with a start.

"Get down!" Justin commanded, diving to the ground himself.

"Ghgh." Batou slammed his sword down in front of him, apparently trying to use the width of the blade in a futile attempt to guard against the winds. His Growlithe instinctively hunkered down behind him, while the Mawile leapt in front of Seeker and Piplup, using its horn to shield them from the blast. The only one who didn't take any clear action against the assault was Gene. In fact, he looked... excited?

The Hurricane slammed into the group. Batou and Mawile served as admirable windbreaks, holding steadfast against the assault, but it wasn't enough. The cutting blades of air curved around their defenses, cutting into their skin and mixing streaks of red with the wind. The wounds were light, each insignificant on their own, but a thousand cuts still bleed. The damage was mounting, and there was nothing they could do to stop it.

Justin fared worse. Unprotect from the winds, all he could do was hug the floor as closely as possible. The winds cut and battered him, and almost immediately he was lifted off of the floor with a cry. Suddenly Seeker struck out from its own cover, tackling Justin to the ground, pinning him there as the wind cut and tore at its flesh. "S-Seeker; no!"

"Gr-... Grrrrgh..."

Worst however was Gene, who had taken no cover at all. However, Ryu was the one Gene's condition was truly terrible for. He should have been torn apart, But that didn't happen. In fact, it looked as though... H-he's... dodging the wind!? Indeed, as the wind struck him, Gene became a blur, weaving and swaying as though her were a phantasm. He didn't seem real, but Ryu could see him. What other explanation was there? B-but... no! That's impossible!

Perhaps Gene could read Ryu's thoughts, because Ryu was sure he saw a smirk. The phantasm cleared, and in Gene's hand Ryu could see a sphere of dark energy swirling. Wha-? But that's-! He hardly had time to react. In an instant, the sphere was streaking through the air toward him. It was undeterred by the wind. It didn't slow at all.

Crossing his swords before him, Ryu took the blast head on. The ball exploded, sending him flying through the air, though it seemed that his blades had somehow absorbed most of the damage. Flipping head first through the air, Ryu jerked his body so as to lond on his feet instead. The moment he did, with horror he realized that Gene was already on him. But he wasn't the same anymore. There was a bestial air about him. His eyes gleamed with malice; his grin twisted like fangs as more of the same shadowy dark energy coalesced around his arms, forming massive claws.

With an inhuman cry, Gene swiped with his claws. Ryu jerked back, narrowly avoiding them, but still Gene hounded him. Every move Ryu made was followed and tracked. Now he was on the defensive. There was no gap to exploit, no chance for reprisal. It was all he could do to keep his head, literally, as it often happened to be. Finally one of Gene's attacks landed; Ryu was surprised by a quick rush from Gene's shoulder, slamming him to the wall, but it wasn't that Ryu hadn't seen the attack coming. Rather, it seemed as though it struck him before it should have.

Finding himself pinned to the wall by Gene's shoulder, both of Ryu's blades clashed with Gene's claws. He suddenly seemed much larger than he had a moment ago. He was strong, as well. Gene's claws pressed against Ryu's blades, and in spite of putting his full strength into it, Ryu realized it was a battle he was losing.

If that wasn't enough, the tickle of Gene's fur only aggravated the situation, adding insult to Ryu's plight. W-wait... What!? Ryu began to understand. He began to realize what it was that he truly faced, and it was not a man. It was nothing of the sort. As the illusion faded, and Ryu could for the first time clearly see the creature's fur, swirling colors of black and red; Gene's face contorted, replaced with a bestial snout; alien digitigrade legs forcing him against the wall; as all was made clear a name crept into Ryu's brain. He knew the name of this creature, but he'd never believed how horrifying it's power could be. What a truly terrible thing it was; it could be no man, even a monster was too kind a word for one such as this. What stood before him now; threatened to choke the very light from his soul, was worse. It was unmistakable. What he now faced was a demon. And he knew the name. "Z-... Z-zoro-...arc..."

The demon grinned. It knew its name as well.

A primal fear overtook Ryu. If this didn't end now, he was going to die. There was no escaping that. He was going to die, by this, thing... "...N-no..." All of the memories... "...no..." All of the hate. "N-no... no...!" All of the fear. "...Ngh-hagh-nagh..." It all came back to him. "Noooooooooooooooo!"

Ryu's power burst furth, a sphere of slicing wind erupted around him. Zoroarc grimaced in pain as the wind cut through it, forcing it away from Ryu. With a mad ferocity, Ryu slashed with his swords, cleaving twin gashes across Zoroarc's chest as it cried out. Ryu raised his blades above his head. This was it. Fight or flight. It was a natural thing. Perhaps the most natural thing in the world. It wasn't normally, but at a time like this, it was easy. In this situation, killing was the most natural thing in the world. His hatred, anguish, and fear all resounded through his voice as Ryu shouted, "Diiiiie!"

As he brought his blades down, Ryu felt an odd sensation. He felt his attack stop; struck against something hard and solid. Before him now was not a demon, but a boy. Batou was his name. A thousand cuts bled across his body, but his tears bled the loudest. Tears streamed down his face as he grit his teeth. It wasn't the pain which reflected in his eyes. It was something else, but something which Ryu couldn't place. In an even tone, Batou asked him a question. There wasn't a hint of hatred in his voice as he asked, "What gives you the right?"

Ryu felt himself pulled away. It was like everything was in a dream, or a nightmare he just couldn't wake up from. He fell backwards as a weight struck his legs with a sickening crack. He saw Mawile, recoiling from its attack, as his head struck the ground. He cried out in pain, but he couldn't hear his own voice. Mawile slammed its horn forward once again, but it wasn't a deathblow. The full weight of its attack fell upon the blade in Ryu's right hand, and it snapped in two.

Reacting on instinct, Ryu rolled backwards, discarding the broken blade as he rose to his feet. He could hardly tell what was going on anymore. His vision was a blur, but he saw a small orange form burst forth, crackling with electricity. Without thinking he blocked with his remaining sword, and Growlithe's jaws snapped shut on the blade. Twisting with its entire body Growlithe twisted the blade and Ryu's wrist along with it before kicking off of Ryu's chest. The electrical discharge surged through him, and Ryu couldn't control himself as he lost hold of the blade.

Now there was nothing left. He was disarmed, disoriented; he hardly understood what had just happened. Ryu truly had nothing left. Dull droan played against his ears, growing louder by the moment. A flash of blue illuminated his dimming vision, and Ryu saw the Piplup. With all that had happened, he had completely forgotten about it. "Piiiiiiiiii-"

I-I didn't even see it. Piplup loomed in the air over him, both arms raised above its heads. From between its arms rose a surprisingly large blade, forged of a swirling blue energy. A dim part of Ryu's mind realized what was about to happen. N-no... N-not like... not like this! Tears of terror streamed down Ryu's face. As Piplup's blade fell towar his face, Ryu could think of nothing but to scream with the most heartfelt and anguished terror he'd ever felt in his life.

...And in an instant of white hot pain, the light had faded.

Asuka smiled wryly. "What? You the ref or a player?"

"Both, really," Quinn answered, his tone surprisingly calm for someone who'd technically just been shot.

"Huh. I'd call that a conflict of interests."

"Not in this game. I make the rules, and that means I get to enforce them, but it's just no fun sitting on the sidelines. So I made sure the game was one I could fully enjoy in all areas!"

"I don't like this game," Asuka remarked flatly.

"That's against the rules!" Quinn responded. He actually seemed offended by Asuka's remark. "Now I hope you're ready to accept your punishment…"

"Hold that thought…" Asuka leveled her weapon toward Quinn's knee and squeezed the trigger. The shock of the blast kicked Quinn's entire leg out from under him, but there was no sign of blood. There… As Quinn's balance teetered, Asuka stepped forward, leveling her gun to his forehead at less than a yard. Again she pulled the trigger, and Quinn's head flew backward, straining his neck as his entire body flew off the ground. He fell on his back with a grunt. There again… Interesting.

Quinn grit his teeth. "Ow, ow, owww!" Rolling casually to his side, he stood, rubbing his neck. "Gah. That actually hurt. You're gonna break my neck if you keep that up."

"And that's… bad?" Asuka asked dryly.

"Oh, very bad. Your punishment's going to be far worse now."

"Didn't you just get done threatening to crush my skull into a fine powder, or something?"

Quinn giggled. "What fun is a game without a few theatrics?"

"Meaning… you're not going to do that?"

"What? Oh, no. No, of course not. Wait, I mean, yes, of course I'm going to, but no, not right away. I'd like this game to last. That, is a move with a fair bit of finality to it."

"Huh. Mind if I try it then?"

"Y-you, want to crush your own skull?" Quinn asked in a genuinely confused tone.

"Sure. That's what I meant by that. Right…"

"Ah. Oh, I get it. Heheh. You're fun!"

"…" Asuka said nothing. Her expression remained immutable.

"Aw… Don't be quiet now. I enjoy your wit."

"As long as my words can be for your benefit, my life is fulfilled."

Quinn canted his head to the side. "You're so… at ease with this situation."

"What, like I'm supposed to be scared of you?"

"You should be. Yes. Don't you understand? There is nothing you can do to me. You can't stop me. You can't win. I may as well be immortal, compared to your power. Do you understand what that means; you're going to die! You hear me, you, are going to die!" Quinn explained, growing more and more manic as he went.

"I'm not dead. You want me to make it easy for you?"

"No; no, I don't. That wouldn't be fun at all!"

"Not a very good sport, are you? No wonder no one wants to play with you."

"Wh-? H-how did-?"

"You're the type of person who has to do everything his way. I bet when you were a kid, the other kids all tried to include you in their games and you ruined it. You're just the kind of jerk who pushes everyone away and now, you've got nothing to show for it. You turned into some insane lunatic with too much power and no idea what to do with it all, so you lash out all the people around you because you're too afraid to ask anyone for a hug. Which doesn't matter because there's no on who'd want to give you one at this point anyway."

Quinn stood, staring wide eyed at Asuka. "I-I…" His expression dimmed. It became a terrifying shade of calm, madness brewing just beneath the surface. "I don't like you anymore. Die."

In a blur of motion, Quinn rushed forward. In a split second he was standing right in front of Asuka, his arm coiled back, ready to attack. Asuka had been waiting for this, but she was still surprised by Quinn's speed. Clearly, his defense wasn't the only of his abilities that was unnatural. Regardless, Quinn soon found him staring point blank down the barrel of Asuka's revolver. She pulled the trigger.

With a loud bang, Quinn was sent flying through the air, once again landing on his back with a heavy thud. "Aagh! Again!? How many bullets does that thing have!? Eh?"

Asuka snapped the cylinder of her revolver shut. "When you hit the ground it was one. Now it's five."

"Gyaaah!? Hey, that's cheating!"

Asuka smirked. That was close. My quick-load cylinder is in my coat, and I had to leave that in the office… I'm just lucky this bulb isn't too bright. Even if I can find another chance to reload, I'll run out of bullets before this guy's invulnerability wears off. Hmm, actually… "Hey. I noticed too ya know. You're not playing by the rules either."

"Lies! I never cheat!"

"So where's my force field then?"

"You don't get one; because that's not your ability! It's mine!"

Asuka smiled. "I see. So you're not invulnerable. I was right. It's just a shield you're projecting."

"Gyurk!?"

"Heh. Not too clever, are you? Now I know your secret."

"Bu-… but you… you already…?"

Asuka shook her head. "It was a guess. Now that you told me though, I know how to deal with it." Except, that's a lie. I could see it, just barely when my bullets hit it. He's been conforming it just around his body. That's why he'd still recoil when I shot him. I knew exactly what I was dealing with. And now, so does he…

"Y-you… F-fine! Fine! I'm done playing around! Now you die!" Asuka felt Quinn surge with power. Visible energy coalesced around him as his shield expanded. "No more getting knocked around! This time, when I come at you, you can hit the ground!"

Asuka glared at him silently. Good, that's just what I wanted. Stop hiding your power. Throw everything you've got at me. Asuka raised her revolver, readying it before her. I don't have enough bullets to wear away your shield and even an idiot like you knows that. But start wasting energy, and I just might find an opening. …I just need to live long enough… "Talk some more. From what I've seen, your bark is the most painful thing you've got."

"Aaaargh!" Quinn cried as he charged forward. Again the speed was a blur. Asuka knew she wouldn't stop him so easily this time, and dodged backward. Quinn punched, his arm swinging wide, slamming into the wall. The punch struck through the wall, leaving a hole around Quinn's arm where it went through. I was right about his strength. He wasn't kidding about the powder thing.

Rataliating, Asuka fired her weapon. The bullet deflected off of Quinn's shield without him even flinching. He smirked. "Hmha! See!? This is your fault you know! All of your hope is for nothing!"

"Oh, how terrible. I am in awe of you, you clever, nefarious fiend. Agh," Asuka answered dryly.

Quinn grit his teeth. "Tch… You're unshakable… Why don't you tremble in fear already!?"

"I thought I was. Wasn't I doing a good job? I'll try again. Ah, no. Don't hurt me, please."

"Grr… Y-you… I'll-!" Quinn's response was cut off as the office door rattled and opened. Out of 'her own' office, Asuka watched a small, unassuming looking girl emerge. She wore a black, sleeveless ninja garb with a ninjato sheathed over her shoulder, and her dark hair tied intricately in a bow behind the head of her face, which was covered by a tight, but plain cloth mask. She turned to Asuka, and her eyes were grey and cold. There was no hint of emotion behind them. In a way, she looked like she didn't wish to be here, or at least was completely indifferent to the whole thing. Asuka half expected her to turn around and go back the way she'd come, like she'd emerged from the wrong door and meant to be somewhere else. "Sh-Shikyo! Have you come to watch me?"

"No," the girl responded flatly. She was breathing heavily, beads of sweat playing across her brow. This is the girl who attacked me before… The shadow manipulator… Of course she's a ninja… Looks like all that power wears her out though. Reaching over her shoulder, Shikyo drew her sword.

"Hey, hold on! I saw her first!" Quinn complained.

"Untrue."

"W-well, I'm fighting her now! You can't cut; that's not fair!"

"Then help."

"Tch…" Quinn grit his teeth. "That won't matter… It'll be over too quickly that way! I wanted to have the chance to enjoy this!"

Shikyo made no response. She didn't seem to care about Quinn's complaints.

Suddenly, on the opposite side of her opponents from her, Asuka saw another figure emerge around the hallway. "M-miss Asuka!" What is she doing here!?

The figure was the girl, Luna. She must have gotten out of her room, but how? Wait, didn't Quinn come from that direction? Tch… It's a good thing he didn't' find her then, but her being here now isn't helping matters. "Idiot! Get out of here!" Asuka shouted.

Luna wasn't entirely sure what to make of this setting. Miss Asuka had her pistol drawn, and seemed to be fighting a ninja girl and a glowing martial artist… By any stretch of the imagination, that situation was certainly weird. She took a step back as Asuka yelled at her, but she didn't move further. Can I really just run away? That sounds humiliating, but I can't fight… I don't even know what's going on!

"Oooh, who's this!?" the martial artist asked. His gaze as he turned to Luna made her uncomfortable.

"Shut up, freak! I'm the one you're after, remember?" Asuka shouted.

"This isn't really a team game…" the man answered, beginning to walk toward Luna. "So, if you're already taken, I'll just have to play with someone else."

"Quinn!" Asuka shouted, firing her pistol. The shot deflected without ever touching he man. Wh-what is that? The glow is a force field? The ninja girl used the opportunity to rush Asuka. She swung her sword, and Asuka weaved back. The blade cut through the barrel of her pistol like it wasn't even there. No, there was more… A darkness clung to the blade, but what was it? Asuka leveled her newly snubbed revolver at her attacker and fired again, but the girl's shadow shot up around her, creating a wall! "Gah; why are all the bad guys bulletproof!? Luna, just stay alive; I'll come for you!"

Quinn stood before Luna now. His smile was unsettling. What do I do? I don't think I can outrun this guy. Do I fight? …I-I don't think I can win a fight with him either! "Hi there!" he said in a surprisingly friendly tone.

"U-uh. H-hi…" Luna answered. She could hear the battle continue between Asuka and the ninja, but she couldn't focus on it in this situation.

"Want to play a game?"

A-a…? …Game? "What, kind of game?" I wish I wasn't alone. I feel so useless without my Pokémon.

"A fun one!"

"Uh, o-…kay… how is it played?" They're always supporting me… I don't… I don't think I can handle this on me own.

"It's simple really," Quinn answered raising a finger. Smiling brightly he explained, "You see, I just cause escalating levels of physical injury upon your person, and you try not to scream. Then, when you inevitably do scream, I continue escalating injury until such a time as you die. There are no real losers in this game, since I get to win, and you get to die! Fun, right!?"

"…" Luna stared blankly at Quinn.

"Hm? Excited? You're excited aren't you! I knew it! This will be a fun game!"

"A-a… a-are you…" Luna stammered. It wasn't so much the horror at being proposed to play such terrible game, as just the astonishment. "…serious!?"

"Bwah…?"

"You moron! That's not a game!That's sadism!"

"Hmph. Anything is a game a-"

"Shut up!" Luna shouted, taking a step toward Quinn, "What the heck kind of freak are you!? You sick and twisted pile of dirt and puss!"

"N-… name calling…" Quinn stammered, backing away from Luna's fierce vocal assault, "i-isn't al-"

"Shut up!" Luna shouted again, backing Quinn back further still. "You know, I've been through a lot. I've had to put up with some utterly ridiculous stuff like you wouldn't even believe, but you! S-some, sick sadist who doesn't understand the concept of not getting his way because all your half-wit brain can think of for a counter argument to anything is how it affects you and your sad and pathetic little world! That is it; that is just, truly pathetic! Just, are you kidding me!? I can't even fathom the levels of brain-dead stupidity it takes to be you!"

Luna's tirade had apparently ended. Silence hung between them for a moment. The only sound was Luna's hard breathing. Geez… I really went all out on this guy. …That felt kind of mean… I wonder if this is how Asuka feels all the time? Quinn finally broke the silence. "I don't want to play with you anymore…" His expression turned from shock into a glare. "Instead, just die."

Well that's better… Luna lowered her stance, clenching her fists as she continued to glare at Quinn. I don't care how weak I am. I don't care if I'm alone… I won't back down! "Come on." A swift pain spread through Luna's stomach. One swift punch; it was so fast, she didn't even see it. That's all it took. She was lifted off her feet, immediately slamming into a wall. The back of her head felt cool and wet as it struck, and then there was nothing.

I don't have time for this… That lunatic will kill her! Asuka glared at Shikyo. "I don't care what sort of power you have. You're pushing yourself too hard. Get out of my way!" I only have two more bullets now… I need to make them count.

Shikyo made no direct response to Asuka's request, instead standing calmly in place. She was breathing heavily, and Asuka couldn't help but to wonder if she was tired enough to actually be considering just giving up. At least, that's what she hoped, but she wasn't willing to bank on it. I can't rest on hope alone. I have to presume she's going to try something. If she can control shadows… then…

Asuka jerked to the side. As she did, the motion seemed to stagger Shikyo, who cried out. "Ga-aah!" Shooting a look behind her, Asuka saw her own shadow receding into place. I get it. I was wondering when you would try something like that.

Asuka looked back toward Shikyo. She was still recovering from her failed attempt to wrest control of Asuka's shadow. "I saw that you know," Asuka said. "I know what you did, and I've got a pretty good idea of your limitations."

Shikyo said nothing.

"You can control static shadows, and apparently your own, but a moving shadow is too much for you to handle other than your own." With a smile, Asuka began to pace back and forth across the hallway. "So basically, since your powers are limited, all I need to do to avoid giving you an opening is to just keep moving. There aren't any other shadows for you to control in this hallway!"

Shikyo paused for a moment. Then taking a breath she gripped her sword tightly, rushing Asuka. She swung her sword, and Asuka ducked under it. Her shadow lashed out, and Asuka weaved to the side avoiding it. Asuka aimed for a body shot. Immediately a shadow shot up to defend, but Asuka feinted around it. Surprising Shikyo with her quick action, Asuka struck forth her elbow, slamming into Shikyo's cheek. The blow staggered her, but she quickly retaliated, slashing wildly with her sword. Asuka fired a round from her revolver. The bullet struck Shikyo's blade, snapping it in two mid swing.

Staggering backward, Shikyo quickly recovered and attacked again. She swung her broken sword through the air, a shadow shooting up from the hilt where the blade would normally be, extending further than the sword normally would. Asuka wasn't quite fast enough to fully evade this attack, the shadow blade piercing her shoulder. "Gwaaah!"

Asuka could hear Luna launching into an angry tirade against Quinn. As much as Asuka loved the idea of that guy catching an earful, she didn't like Luna's odds if she made him mad. Though, they couldn't be much worse than they were in the first place, anyhow… I don't have time to waste on this one!

As the shadow receded from her shoulder Asuka lunged forward. With a roar she struck Shikyo's wrist, bludgeoning it with her weapon. Wincing in pain Shikyo dropped the broken blade from her hand. Following through, Asuka launched a powerful kick. She felt her foot connect with Shikyo's jaw, launching her off her feet.

As the girl crumpled to the floor, Quinn continued to stare for a moment longer. He hadn't enjoyed that, which he found disturbing. Little brat. How is this supposed to be fun if you fall so easily? He shook his head, but then heard a similar noise behind him. Turning, he saw Shikyo on the ground, her sword broken in two. He smiled. "Hey. Bwaha… You're pretty worn out, aren'tcha?"

Shikyo didn't' answer, instead rolling over to her side in pain. Geez. As much as I hate to admit it, Shikyo really must have worn herself out. If she'd conserved her energy more this would have been too easy. Quinn's grin grew wide. Well… Her mistake is my gain.

"Hey, Shikyo. Why don't you pack up? You're no good in this condition. Let me finish her off, eh?"

Shikyo stood, swaying slightly as she struggled to catch her breath.

"Come on. He'll be angry if you get sloppy. You don't want that… do you?"

For a moment Shikyo froze. It was a satisfying feeling for Quinn. He knew his words cut her. Slowly she turned. Without tone or expression, she answered. "Yes…" It was a bit ambiguous, but as she turned back toward the room she came in from, her intention was made clear.

"That a girl. And don't worry. I'll take care of everything," Quinn assured her as he turned his full attention toward Asuka. "And I'll enjoy it too."

As Shikyo made her exit, she called back without stopping. "Quinn. He'll be angry. Don't fail."

Tch. She's threatening me now? Shut up you soulless doll! "…I understand…"

Without another word between them, Shikyo disappeared. Asuka was breathing heavily, but she still clearly had some fight left in her. "I don't get the feeling you're well liked. Not that I ever did."

"Funny," Quinn answered. "I don't get the feeling you're going to live longer than ten seconds! Not that I ever did!"

Asuka smirked. "I just keep disappointing you…"

"That's okay," Quinn said as he clenched a fist and entered a fighting stance. "I'll forgive you." Surging forth with all of his speed, Quinn charged toward Asuka. To his surprise, she didn't flee. Instead she came forward as well, closing the gap between them. She swung her weapon at Quinn's head, but the blow slid off his Aura Guard. With a satisfied grin Quinn punched, not needing to avoid Asuka's blow.

Asuka dodged, swiping with her pistol once more, and again her attack collided with his shield to no effect. Quinn goaded her at her failure as struck back with a double roundhouse kick. "That won't work! It told you already didn't I? To a mortal like you I may as well be a god! I'm invincible!"

Asuka weaved back, gaining some distance as she leveled her weapon, aiming straight for Quinn's chest. "You're afraid of someone, and I'm going to find out who." Instead of firing her weapon, she charged forward again, sweeping at Quinn's head with a high kick.

"A-afraid!? Me!?" Quinn cried as the woman's attack glanced off his shield. "Idiot; don't you get it yet!? I'm invincible!?"

Quinn swung wildly, losing his composure for a moment. Asuka seized the opportunity, evading behind him. She shoulder charged against Quinn's shield, and the two of them slammed into the wall, Asuka pinning her opponent in place. "Not likely. I've seen your glowy, urine stained Aura Guard. I'm not impressed. I can think of at least one person who could definitely punch through it on brute force alone, and after hearing your conversation with the kunoichi, I'm willing to bet there's someone else who can break it just as easily!"

Quinn froze in surprise. She knows what it's called!? That… N-no… It has to just be coincidence. She can't know that! A-and even if she does, who cares? She's be lying from the beginning; trying to manipulate me! She's not playing fair! Like everyone else; she's breaking the rules! Punish; I'll punish… I'll punish her! "A-a… against… the rules!" Quinn focused his strength. He propelled himself off the wall, sending himself and Asuka flying backwards. He crushed Asuka against the opposite wall with his incredible strength.

"Gyghaa!" Asuka cried out as she struck the wall with a satisfying crunch.

Swinging around, Quinn saw as Asuka began to slump along the wall toward the floor. Can't have that. He reached down, grabbing her by the throat with his left hand. He lifted her off the ground, slamming her once again against the wall and pinning her there. Asuka's head was already bleeding from the first blow. The second likely wasn't doing her any favors. To his surprise, Quinn saw that she still had the presence of mind to hold on to her weapon. "That won't help you here. Do you even have any bullets left? It doesn't matter; you're weak! There's nothing you can do to stop me!"

Asuka glared back at him, even as his hand strained around her neck and she struggled to breath.

Quin smiled. "Don't worry. I won't let you die that way," he said, cupping his fingers in a claw-like fashion. "I'm going to break every single one of your ribs one by one as I rip your still beating heart from your chest and show it to you." He broke down into a fit of giggling at the prospect. "Ohh, this is wonderful! I've always wanted to try this!"

Asuka couldn't have answered if she wanted to. All she could do was glare back at him. Quinn reveled in the sensation of power.

Suddenly an overwhelming sense of power washed over Quinn, but it was not his own power. It dwarfed it. He stood in its shadow, and in an instant he was terrified. Th-this feeling! It's just like… "Get your hands off of her you sick, worthless freak!"

Dark… Why is it so dark? My eyes are open… I know they're open, but why is it so dark? Why is there… nothing… As these thoughts played across Luna's mind a light appeared. It was a faint violet light. Wh-… what is that? It feels… warm… Clean. …I don't feel very strong; what's happening? Where?

Luna felt her strength returning to her. The pain faded away and she felt she couldn't wait any longer. She had to know. She had to know what was going on. Luna shot to her feet, breaking free of the violet light which enveloped her. Her senses were clear now, but she still couldn't see. All around her was darkness. A pitch black void of nothing.

"You shouldn't… push yourself, so hard…" a voice said through panted breaths.

In the darkness before Luna, now sat Gene. She didn't know why she hadn't noticed him before. "Gene? What's going on?"

"You were hurt," Gene explained. He seemed very strained, and tired. He looked ready to collapse at any moment. "I did what I could… to heal you…"

The memory of being attacked by Quinn played across Luna's mind. "Y-you did?" She looked around at her surroundings but saw nothing. All that was around her was a blackness given no form, yet somehow she could tell that there was fighting nearby. It was an unsettling feeling. "Where are we? How did we get here?"

"I brought us here. It's… just something I can do…" Gene explained. "As to the where… I call it, the Boundary."

"The boundary to where? Between what?"

"The Boundary… between our world and… somewhere else… Or something else. I'm not really sure. I don't know the nature of this place. …Just how to get here. I think this is at least partially a world of my creation that exists between reality and… unreality…? I-it, it's complicated alright…"

A scream cried out through the darkness. It seemed at once distant, and near. It was a terrible sound. "W-what was that!?" Luna asked.

"An echo. An echo from the world we're from. You can hear what's going on nearby, even if we're removed from that space. …Sometimes… I hear echoes, from… somewhere else… B-but, that's not important right now."

"It's Miss Asuka! She's in pain!"

"Yeah…"

As if willed by their thoughts a window opened in the darkness. Luna could see Asuka as she was strangled against a wall by Quinn. "Asuka!" She turned to Gene in horror. "We have to help her!"

"I can't… I'm not a fighter, and I've used my strength… I wish I was stronger, but I'm not…" There was real pain within his eyes as Gene said these words.

"S-so, bring Miss Asuka here then!"

"I can't do that either… I'm too weak, and I'd bring that man here too…"

This conversation was becoming frustrating. "Agh! Fine! Then send me back!"

"You…?" Gene looked at Luna questioningly. "What can you do?"

Luna felt stronger now. Maybe it was Gene's healing, but she felt a power surging through her. Actually, it was a familiar power. It was the same power she felt when she fought alongside Piplup and her Pokémon. "I can try!" she answered.

Gene's eyes widened. It was like he could see something that Luna herself could not. Then with a gentle smile he said, "…Alright. But Luna… Don't die."

That voice… I-it can't be! Quinn turned, and with a shock he realized that the girl he'd put on the floor a moment ago was apparently completely unharmed. She surged forward, and distinct blue Aura surrounding her as energy coalesced into her hand. Wh-what!? She's an Adept!?

Too stunned to react, Quinn could do nothing. Luna punched, her blue aura focusing into her fist. Her aura clashed with Quinn's, and pierced his shield. A dull pain spread through Quinn as Luna's punch struck him square in the shoulder.

Staggering back Quinn dropped Asuka to the ground. How could this…? She… hit me!? Broke my defense!? S-she… s-she's cheating! Gritting his teeth angrily, he threw forth his own punch. Luna swung up both of her arms to defend herself, her Aura growing stronger as she braced against the attack. She was blasted by the force of the punch, sent flying down the hall. She hit the ground hard, rolling a few times before staggering unsteadily to her feet, battered, bruised and a bit bloody, but her injuries were nowhere near as severe as they should have been. That punch should have broken her arms! How is she still fine after that!? Th-that's…! That's not fair!

"Miss Asuka!" Luna shouted.

Quinn turned again in surprise to see Asuka, slumped against the wall but holding her gun firmly with both hands. "I see it," she croaked in a hoarse tone.

See? See what!? What does she see!? Quinn's mind raced frantically. Suddenly he realized what it was they saw. Quinn's Aura Guard still had the hole in it Luna had punched through. Wh-what!? B-but, that shouldn't happen! I-I'll just…! Quinn strained to regenerate his guard, but it wouldn't come. Try as he might, he couldn't fill the hole. It was like an empty void his Aura couldn't reach. N-no no no no nooo! This isn't happening; this can't be happening!

Quinn stared in frantic horror and saw the calm in Asuka's eyes. A calm which his own eyes certainly did not share. He screamed in complete terror, "Noooooooooooooo-!"

As the bang of a gunshot echoed through the halls, Quinn's cry of terror turned to one of pain.