Extra note:
"Talking"
'Thinking'
"(Pokémon Speak)", (*)
- "Talking with a distorted/deep voice"
"Communication via telepathy"
Enjoy the chapter!
Chapter 6: The Inventor Meets the Knight
[Intro theme]
After sailing for quite sometime, the gang arrive at a port called Port Zekson. Everyone immediately get off the Van Eltia in order to enter the port.
"Now this is refreshing! Sailing into port like normal people." Rokurou said.
"You said it, Rokurou." Andrew said as he agreed with Rokurou.
"Eventhough we're not exactly normal zzt!" Rotom commented.
"Well done, boy. The sharks are gonna go hungry tonight." Magilou complimented Laphicet as Eizen walk towards a man who just finished talking to the guard.
"Yes, I'm glad." Laphicet replied as Velvet noticed Eizen.
"This won't be a problem? Docking a pirate ship here?" Velvet asked her question will be answered soon enough.
"So, how are the nothern seas, Eizen?" The man asked.
"Hellawes and Vortigern are in ruins. Trade with Northgand will likely be distrupted for quite some time." Eizen answered.
"Well, I like the sound of that. I'll have to act quickly." The man said.
"Any word of the captain?" Eizen asked.
"Aye. It's an old rumor, but they say Captain Aifread was sent to Titania." The man answered as the word "Titania" ring bells in Velvet.
"The island prison overseen by the exorcist, eh? We'll have to look into that." Eizen said.
"I registered your vessel as one of our merchantmen, same as always. But even so, stay on guard. There's a grand ceremony being held in Loegres. Lots of watchful eyes about." The man said as he continued conversing with Eizen.
"I see. So they exchange information for mooring." Rokurou commented.
"Information...for mooring?" Laphicet puzzled.
"Having the latest news gives merchants a chance to make favorable trades." Velvet explained.
"I think I get the gist of it." Andrew said as he understood.
"So it's worth protecting a pirate." Laphicet concluded.
"But not all pirates are like Aifread's, Laphicet. While there are types of pirates who want adventures, there are those who just want for the fun of it." Andrew explained.
"Then I better watch out." Laphicet said.
"I bet that Eizen and his crew have connections like this in nearly every port." Rokurou commented.
"Not even the Abbey's iron decrees can withstand the force known as human greed." Magilou said.
"I see." Laphicet said as he understands. After that, Eizen go towards the group once he's done talking with the man.
"Don't bother going to Titania. You won't find Aifread there." Velvet told the Reaper.
"And how would you know that?" Eizen asked.
"Because I escaped from there. And before I did, I heard something from the prisoners regarding Aifread." Velvet answered. "They said Aifread was the only prisoner to ever get out alive...and that he was taken by an old exorcist named Melchior." The word "Melchior" however, making a certain witch noticed that.
"Lord Melchior is an elder legate at the Abbey. He should always be present at the headquarters." Laphicet explained.
"Don't call him "Lord"." Velvet scolded the young malak.
"Van Aifread's our captain. It's starting to look like his disappearance has connections to the highest level of the Abbey." Eizen said as this reminded Andrew of a certain someone.
'Connections with a public organization? Looks like this Aifread is this world's Guzma.' Andrew thought.
"Their headquarters should be in the capital, right?" Magilou asked as Laphicet nod.
"Yes, at the royal villa of Loegres. I've never been there though." Laphicet answered.
"So are we." Both Andrew and Rotom said in unison.
"And Velvet, you're business is with a man in the capital, right?" Rokurou asked as Velvet nod.
"Looks like we're headed for the same place." Eizen noted.
"I won't apologize for involving you." Velvet remarked.
"Usually I'm the one who says that." Eizen replied as they on their way to Loegres...
(In Alola, Melemele Island)
"You're attention please, we have arrived at Hau'oli City in Melemele Island, one of the four islands that makes up the Alola Region. Please make sure your belongings and Pokémon are not left behind. Thank you and enjoy your stay at the Alola region." A PTA announcement said as a ship has just arrived in the docks of Hau'oli City.
Among the passengers is a particular young woman. She has neck length light brown hair (the hairstyle is like Yukari Takeba's hairstyle). She wears a pair of yellow wide framed sunglasses on her face. She's the same age as Andrew. Her outfit is consists of black sleeveless turtleneck top, an aqua colored skinny jeans, a blue Enamel-Striped Purse that she carried with her shoulder, a Mega Ring on her left wrist, and brown laced boots.
"So,...this is Alola." She said as she put her glasses upwards to the top of her head, revealing her brown eyes. She then pulls out a piece of paper that says, "Go to Professor Kukui's lab in Route 1".
Before she can continue into the city, a Pokémon comes right out one of her purse. It's a small, round, orange mouse-like Pokémon, whose whiskers are in shape of antennas. It has orange pouches on its cheeks, and its belly is a pale yellow. It has round black ears with light yellow insides, and a long black tail with a star-like tip. It has an aradicular tooth that can be seen on its upper jaw. This is the Pokémon Dedenne.
"How's the nap, Holly?" She asked the Antenna Pokémon.
"(Never better.)" Holly answered in form of Pokémon Speak. "(Are we there yet?)"
"Not yet. We have to see this "Professor Kukui" that Professor Sycamore told me to meet." The young woman answered despite she doesn't know what her Pokémon is saying. Holly go back inside the purse as the former head towards the city before going left to head towards Route 1 by following the direction that the Kalosian Professor gave her.
After several minutes of walking as well as passing the Pokémon School, they finally arrived at Professor Kukui's house. Let's just say their reactions to the place is...unique.
"This is Professor Kukui's lab?" She said as she is flabbergasted at this.
"(Not as fancy as Professor Sycamore's lab.)" Holly said as she go towards the front door and knock the door.
"Excuse me, is this Professor Kukui's house?" The young woman asked before she heard crashing noises from inside the house.
"Oh yeah, Braviary! Let's go! Give it everything you've got! My body is ready. Woo! A voice belonged to a man can be heard.
"What the...?" The young woman said as her Pokémon also shared the feeling. That feeling is, 'What kind of man is he?'
"Geez Professor Kukui, do you think this is a bit...extreme?" A voice of girl can also be heard by them.
"Nonsense, Lillie. I have done this over and over again like an Encore, and I came out just fine." A voice of the man answered. The brown haired trainer concluded that they didn't hear her.
"Hello! Is there anyone here?" She asked loudly.
"Just a second!" The voice of the girl inside replied as the brunette heard footsteps before the door is opened. The one who opened the door is a blonde haired girl that she tied her hair in a ponytail. Her outfit is consists of a white dress and a pink backpack.
"Hello, I'm looking for Professor Kukui. Is this his lab?" The brown haired trainer asked.
"This is the place, you can come in." The girl said as the brown haired trainer as well as her Pokémon enters the house. The brown haired trainer finds the interior...nice compared to its exterior. It has a large aquarium and some furnitures. She sees a ladder that leads to up of a section that has beds. And there's a staircase that leads to the basement.
"I know that this isn't an ideal place for a Professor to live, but...it's Professor Kukui." The blonde girl said. "The Professor is in the basement. I will lead you to him." She said as they go to the basement.
The brown haired trainer sees a man and his Pokémon sparring each other. The man has darker skin compared to her, he wears a green and white cap, a pair of green glasses, and a Z Power Ring. He only wears a lab coat that it's exposes his chest, gray beach shorts, and green sneakers.
Facing him is a Pokémon resembles a large eagle with dark red feathers on its back and dark blue feathers on its underside. Its tail feathers are red, turning to yellow, and then blue at the tips. Its legs are long and thick with yellow feet that each have a digit facing backward, and three facing forward. Each digit is tipped by a short, thick, black claw. It has a long, thick beak with a blue cere. On either side of the cere are its eyes, which are black with small white pupils. Sprouting from above the eyes are three large, white feathers. At the base of the feathers is a red, three-pointed design that is spread across all three feathers. On each side of its face, sprouting out from behind the feathers on its forehead, are an additional three white feathers pointing horizontally and downward. Behind the three feathers on its head is a large plume of white feathers, extending most of the way down its neck. This is a Braviary.
"Give me your best shot!" The man said.
"Professor! Someone wants to see you!" The girl said as the man noticed the girl and the brown haired trainer and stop the sparring match.
"A guest? I guess someone did tell me that a trainer would come here." The Professor said as he walk towards the brown haired girl.
"Alola! The name's Professor Kukui. You must be the trainer that Professor Sycamore talked about." Professor Kukui said.
"Yeah. My name is Gwen Rogers." The trainer named Kate said as she look towards Holly. "And this is Holly, my Dedenne."
"(Nice to meet you!)" Holly greeted as Kukui's Lycanroc go towards Kate.
"(Alola, you two.)" Braviary said as Kukui look towards the blonde girl.
"And this is Lillie, my assistant." Kukui said as the said girl look towards her.
"Welcome to Alola, Gwen." Lillie said.
"Likewise." Gwen said to Lillie as the former shake hands before look towards Kukui.
"What's your impression in Alola now that you got a first look at it?" Kukui asked.
"It's definitely nice, almost as comfortable as Kalos." Gwen answered.
"Glad you like it eventhough you just recently got here." Kukui said. "So, what brings you to Alola?" Kukui asked.
"I'm here to find an old friend." Kate answered.
"Who will that be?" Kukui asked.
"I'm...not in liberty to say who. I'm here to apologize to him." Gwen answered as she frown.
"I see..." Kukui said as he knows who's she referring to now, but doesn't want her to know that he knows who it is. "I'm sure he has forgiven."
"I hope so. I have done so many horrible things to him that I'm afraid he won't forgive me." Gwen said.
"(Gwen...)" Holly said as she worries about her friend as Kukui tap her shoulder.
"Whoever he is, I'm sure he will forgive you." Kukui said.
"Thanks." Gwen said as she smiles.
"While you are searching for him, why not Tackle the Island Challenges?" Kukui asked.
"Island Challenges?" Gwen puzzled as she doesn't know what it is.
"Four Islands!" Kukui said as he show them his four fingers on his hands, surprising Gwen and Holly a little.
. "You'll travel to each of the four islands here in the Alola region. The island challenge is about aiming to be the strongest Trainer— the island challenge champion. Woo! Since we have our own Pokémon League now, you might as well challenge it as well."
"So...there's no Gym Battles?" Gwen asked.
"Nope, but I heard there is an unofficial one in U'la U'la Island. Most of the challenges you will be facing are these Island Challenges." Lillie explained.
"Island Challenges is great way to prove that you're the strongest trainer and also a great chance to have an adventure with your Pokémon." Kukui answered.
"Oh okay. I'll give it a shot. And who knows? I'll able to meet up with someone I'm looking for on the way." Gwen said as she and Holly are interested.
"That's the spirit. Woo!" Kukui said. "First, we have go to Iki Town to see the Kahuna of this island."
"Kahuna?" Gwen said.
"Four Islands! They are the strongest trainer in each of the four islands just behind the Elite Four." Kukui said as he returned his Braviary inside his pokeball.
'Looks like Four is his catchphrase or something.' Gwen thought.
"Now, c'mon! Let's go see the Kahuna!" Kukui said as he go upstairs.
"Okay." Gwen said as Holly went back inside the purse as she follows the shirtless professor.
"Lillie, I'm going out for awhile. You'll be in charge of here until I get back, okay?" Kukui said.
"Okay Professor." Lillie said as Kukui and Gwen leave the house and head towards Iki Town.
(With Andrew and co.)
After talking to some people in the area, the gang head towards the gate that has guards on it. Apparently, they heard that there's ceremony that about to take place in Loegres with the Abbey is involved.
"Sir! Scouts have reported seeing a powerful daemon! Its danger level has been classified as code red!" One of the guards reported.
"Understood. I'll notify the Abbey we have a code red daemon in our midst." The guard captain. "Send out an emergency alert to the neighboring areas."l
"Right!" The guard said as he leaves while the gang watch them.
"With wild daemons this close to the capital, the Abbey must have had its hands full." Velvet said.
"What's a code red daemon?" Andrew asked.
"Code red daemons are a type of daemons that is really strong as it dangerous." Rotom explained.
"From the latest I heard, there's around 10 such daemons across the territories." Eizen added.
"Oooh, they sound pretty tough." Rokurou said as he eager to fight one.
"That would be putting it lightly. Suffice to say, you wouldn't want to face one unprepared." Eizen said.
"Yikes." Andrew said.
"Then we'd best be prepared." Rokurou said.
"Let's get going. While we're wasting time here, the Abbey is digging in." Velvet said.
"Okay then." Andrew said as they went towards the others side of the gate.
(Skit: Aifread the Prisoner)
"You said you heard about Aifread on the prison island, right?" Eizen asked.
"I heard an exorcist legate named Melchior took him away. I don't know anything beyond that." Velvet answered.
"Neither do I. What about you, Magilou?" Rokurou asked.
"Word is he was taken away about a year ago. Caused quite a stir if I remember right. Everything about him was kept a tight secret. No one even knew what cell he was in." Magilou answered.
"Aifread's an ordinary human, right?" Andrew asked.
"Yeah. He doesn't have the abilities of an exorcist, and he isn't a daemon either." Eizen answered.
"What I don't know is; If the Abbey wants to put a stop his gang, why capture him but leave the crew scott free?" Andrew asked again.
"Yeah. If not his gang, what business does the Abbey have with him, then?" Rokurou added.
"We've cast our nets wide and can't come up any explanation." Eizen said as he expression turns to one that determines. "But we'll free him. His place is on the sea with us.
"And you're convinced that he's still alive until this day?" Velvet asked.
"They don't have any qualms killing a pirate who caused them trouble." Eizen answered.
"If the Abbey took him alive and for questioning, he must have something that they really want." Rokurou concluded.
"But he isn't the type to change his ways or bend his knees on anyone's orders." Eizen said.
"He...holds his own tiller..." Laphicet muttered.
"Precisely." Eizen said as the group continued towards their destination.
(Skit end)
"Now, onward to Loegres!" Magilou said.
"Shouldn't you be somewhere else?" Velvet asked.
(Skit: Why Come With Us)
"Why are you still here with us?" Rokurou asked.
"I can tell you're all probably be sad if I left." Magilou said.
"We won't. At all." Velvet answered.
"That's harsh." Andrew commented.
"What about your search for this traitor of yours?" Rokurou asked.
"A what?" Andrew said as he was confused.
"He slipped away yet again. I've no clue where he ran off to." Magilou answered.
"You're a witch. Can't you use a spell or something?" Velvet said before asking.
"My spellcraft works kinda like a three-legged race. It requires my backstabbing, slippery accomplice." Magilou answered.
"Like a con artist needs an accomplice." Rokurou insulted.
"I am NOT a con artist." Magilou denied.
"I'm not going to help you find your accomplice, you know." Velvet said.
"How cold! Such an icy stare could freeze fire!" Magilou exclaimed.
"And don't you have anyone else?" Rokurou asked.
"Hmm...Well no." Magilou said.
"Do you have a home to return to?" Rokurou asked again.
"Nope." Magilou answered.
"Do you know a trade other than magic?" Rokurou asked as he gets fed up about this.
"I wish, but no." Magilou answered.
"Ahh..." Laphicet suddenly gasped.
"What is it, Laphicet?" Eizen asked.
"Um...Magilou's story made my chest feel funny...and my nose is runny." Laphicet explained the problem.
"The witch has no friends, no home, and no purpose. I think what you're feeling is pity." Eizen explained.
"Pity?" Laphicet puzzled.
"Pity is a part of emotion when you feel sorrow for someone else." Rotom explained.
"I...pity Magilou..." Laphicet said.
"For some reason, it's kind of funny if you said it like that." Andrew commented.
"Oh come on!" Magilou exclaimed as everyone keeps going.
(Skit end)
After walking several paces, they're ambushed by a horde of snake and a monkey daemons.
"Guess it's fighting time again." Andrew said as he pulls a new one. It's black but it has gold linings on it. This is the Luxury Ball.
"Conner, I choose you!" Andrew said as he summoned an unknown Pokémon. It is a gray Pokémon similar to a koala. It has large, rounded ears with light orange fur on the inside. Its large, ovoid black nose extends up between its fluffy white eyebrows, and there are additional white puffs of fur on each cheek. There is a small ruff of longer, gray fur around its neck. Each hand is black with five short fingers, and it has three black claws and a black paw pad on each foot. Its underbelly is white, as is its short fluffy tail. And it's holding a small wooden log. This is Conner the Komala, one of Andrew's Pokémon that he caught in the U'la U'la Island.
"Wow...it's kinda cute." Laphicet commented as he finds Conner cute.
"Andrew...why is it sleeping?" Velvet asked.
"Are you sure it's okay to bring out a Pokémon like that?" Rokurou said as he looks down.
"I'm sure." Andrew said as one of the monkey daemon observe Conner. Before it trying to touch him, Conner simply jumps up, spins around and kicks the daemon with its fee several times before the daemon got killed, shocking the gang except Andrew and Rotom.
"How come that thing move around without even looking?!" Magilou exclaimed.
"It's surely wake up, right?" Eizen asked as he too flabbergasted about this.
"It's a secret." Andrew playfully said as Conner managed held his own against the daemons.
"Hmm..." The Drowsing Pokémon only said. The gang sans Magilou battle the daemons. They managed to defeat all but four remaining daemons.
"Guess it's time for another Dual Up!" Andrew said as he transformed into another dual plate form. This one is him as a red humanoid crustacean like lifeform. Despite its clawed hands instead of pincers, with holes on palms in each hands. His eyes are blue and his body is like that of a crustacean's exoskeleton, including a hood like body part. (The form is like Water Hazard (Ultimate Alien version) from Ben 10).
"He's a humanoid crab?!" Magilou exclaimed.
"Wow!" Laphicet said with star in his eyes, impressed at Andrew's new form.
"Water/Fire Dual type Mode: Flaming Sea Beast, Origubas!" Andrew shouted.
"New Dual Plate form! Update...update...update completed!" Rotom said.
"Let's see what's this form do." Eizen said as the daemons shift their attention on Andrew and proceed to charge at him.
"Come at me!" Andrew taunted as his aim his palms at the daemons. "Hydro Pump!" Andrew shouted as a blast of powerful waters comes out from the the hole on his palm and hits the them.
"Talk about a wash-out." Magilou noted as the daemons continue their attempt assault on Andrew.
"Double Crabhammer!" Andrew shouted as his hands glow and shaped like a crab's pincer before slamming them with it. Yet, they're still standing but injured.
"Still here?" Andrew said as his eyes turns red. "Time to heat things up. Flamethrower!" Andrew said as a stream of fire comes out of his palms, shocking everyone.
"One moment he shoots water, then he shoots flames. What's up with that?!" Rokurou exclaimed.
"He did say the form are Water and Fire." Eizen said as the daemos sustained damage, evidenced with them being wobbly.
"Conner, finish this with Rock Slide!" Andrew shouted as Conner jumps in the air.
"If he asleep, shouldn't he ignored Andrew?" Laphicet asked.
"I...don't know." Velvet answered as Conner creates multiple white orbs of energy around itself. The orbs of energy then turn into large grey rocks with white outlines and rain down over the daemons, killing them instantly.
"Guess that why it's called, "Rock Slide"." Eizen noted as Andrew changes back to normal.
"Without further ado, let's keep going." Andrew said as he picks up Conner before continuing their way to Loegres.
(Skit: The Drowsing Conner)
"Hey, Andrew...Can I ask you a question?" Laphicet asked. He likes to ask about Conner. The Drowsing Pokémon earns the interest of him.
"Let me guess, is this about Conner?" Andrew said as he look towards to Conner.
"Yes. If he's asleep, how come it moves and heard your voice as if he was awake?" Laphicet asked.
"I was thinking the same thing." Rokurou said as he joins the conversation.
"Same." Eizen added as Velvet and Magilou joins in as well.
"If that's the case then..." Andrew said as he puts Conner on the ground.
"Velvet, try attacking him." Andrew said.
" You sure?" Velvet asked.
"Yup." Andrew said as Velvet summon her therion arm. She tried to attack the sleeping looking Pokémon...emphasized on "tried" as Conner simply dodge with little effort.
"Nice reflex for something that look like it's sleeping. It's got to be awake now, right?" Rokurou said before asking as Velvet turns her arm back to normal.
"Unfortunately no. Rotom, if you would." Andrew said to his fairy companion.
"Okay then!" Rotom's said as a picture of a Komala appears on his screen. "Komala, the Drowsing Pokémon. A Normal type. Since its ability is Comatose, this Pokémon is always asleep, from birth until its death. While its expression sometimes changes as if it is aware of its surroundings, this appears to be a result of the dreams its having instead. Because of this, It is able to eat, travel, and even battle without waking. If the log pillow it clings to is removed, it will be unable to sleep well and thrash wildly."
"It's STILL ASLEEP?!" Rokurou exclaimed so loudly that Conner become annoyed.
"Pipe...DOWN!" Conner said sleepily yet serious as he smacks Rokurou with his log.
"Ow...what was that for?!" Rokurou exclaimed.
"Sorry, Rokurou. Conner's tend to be a bit grouchy when he's sleep time is disturbed." Andrew said.
"So, the way how Conner defeated those daemons,...it's all because of dreams?" Laphicet asked.
"Exactly." Andrew said.
"Still, how that Pokémon keep sleeping?" Magilou asked.
"Simple, Magilou. It's on what's it eats." Rotom answered.
"What it's eat?" Velvet contemplated.
"Yup. Check this..." Andrew said as he pulls out leaves from his bag. "See these leaves? They have sedative properties that keep a Komala sleeping."
"Unfortunately, people and other Pokémon can't eat them." Rotom added.
"Observe." Andrew said as he point the leaves near Conner. Conner sniffs it before eating one of the leaves.
"Wow! Conner eat it." Laphicet said in amazement.
"I see...Still for a Pokémon that always asleep, it's quite the battler." Eizen complimented.
"That's how Komala is, Eizen. Small but they are heavy hitters." Andrew said as Velvet look at Conner, who sleeps happily.
'You know,...seeing it's sleeping without a care in the world is...kind of cute.' Velvet thought as Andrew returns him in his pokeball.
"All right, let's go." Andrew said as they continued on their way to Loegres.
(Skit end)
After that, they encountered and battled some daemons who unfortunately enough to crosses their way with Andrew fighting with his a Plate form and his gauntlets.
Thirty minutes later, they arrived at the front of gate of Loegres, that's the good news. The bad news? There's inspection done by the guards in front of them.
"Oh geez. There's an inspection right there." Andrew said as he pointed out to a man who has been checked by a guard.
"What are we going to do?" Rotom asked with panicked expression.
"Just act naturally. They won't inspect everyone." Eizen adviced.
"Oh okay." Andrew said as he looks at Rotom. "Rotom, hide in my bag."
"Okay zzt." Rotom said as he entered Andrew's bag before the group walking through the gate...unbeknownst to them, a guard noticed them, well Velvet and Andrew in particular, and decided to follow them.
Just as they enter it safely...
"You two, in the black coat and in a strange outfit. Show me your documentation." The guard called Andrew and Velvet as they turn around and look at him.
"Uh...um..."
"A what?"
"Well? Your travel permits from the Abbey, where is it?" The guard demanded them as the duo have no idea to reply as they...
(Whack)
(Whack)
"Ow!" Both of them shouted in pain as Magilou suddenly hit them in the head.
"Foolish girl! stupid darling! How many times have I told you both? A magician's apprentices must wear a pleasant grin!" Magilou scolded them.
"Apprentices?! Since when we-Oh I get it. Sorry mistress." Andrew said before he caught up on Magilou's plan.
"Verily! I present to you the traveling troupe of mischievous misfits known across Desolation known as...Magilou's Menagerie!"
At the same time, Hilda just strolling in the same area while she is deep in thought. The reason is she's done with her duty today, so she wears casual clothes at the moment.
'There has to be a way to convince her, I have to. If not,...' She thought as she put her hand on her chest as she thought. '...She will end up dead.' Eventhough she and Erika aren't friends anymore, the former can't help but to worry about a vigilante of a former friend. She feels that she's responsible for making Erika changed drastically. She still hearing those words from her...
'To think that's the same organization I'm trying to join. I was an idiot to think that you exorcists are righteous as everyone says. From today, Hilda-No...Hildegard Valadier, you're DEAD to me!'
"Erika..." Hilda said as she clenched her fist. Just as she about to leave...
"Entertainment for the ceremony?" A voice of a guard said as she heard them and breaks her thought.
"Why yes, indeed we are, my dear. Please pardon my uncouth apprentices. The girl is a grumpy one while darling here is a bit of a coward."
"H-Hey..."
"Hm...?" Hilda then look towards the source. She sees a guard talking to a girl in strange witch/jester outfit, a raven haired woman, a boy who wears clothing that she never seen before. With them, she sees a man in a samurai outfit, a blonde man in a coat, and a younger boy who wears clothing that vaguely resembles the color of the Abbey.
'Strange group. Never seen them before.' Hilda thought as she watches the scene unfold.
"Girl! Allay the good man's fear with the dove trick you've spent all these weeks on. Go to." Magilou ordered Velvet.
'Dove trick? I guess they're a group of performers.' Hilda concluded.
"Huh?" Velvet said as she look at the guard before caught up on Magilou's plan...sort of.
"Oh...uh... Sorry, mistress...I forgot to prepare." Velvet said.
"Y-Y-You pathetic little shirker! A proper performer is perpetually prepared!" Magilou exclaimed.
"It's fine. Doves flying around would be a nuisance." The guard said.
"No. This will not do. If you cannot summon a dove, then ACT like one!" Magilou ordered Velvet as the latter gives the former the "You can't be serious" expression on her face.
"ACT. LIKE. A. DOVE!" Magilou demanded even further. The raven haired woman could only sighed in defeat before she face towards the guard, putting her hand in her mouth that mimicked a dove's beak, and say what doves would say.
"Coo. Coo." Velvet said as people around her sans the group laughed at her as she blushes and feeling embarrassed.
'That's...embarrassing. Poor girl.' Hilda thought she sympathized what Velvet just did.
Then Magilou performed in the dove trick, which impressed everyone included Hilda.
"That's one performance down..." Magilou said as she looked towards Andrew.
"Darling! You are the singer of the troupe are you? It's your turn to perform!" Magilou ordered Andrew.
"O-Of course, mistress. But first, I like to perform some few magic tricks of my own."
"Very well." Magilou gave the ok as Andrew pulls out Bella's pokeball and another Beast Ball.
"Is Andrew going to summon that wasp dragon thing?" Rokurou asked Eizen.
"Only one way to find out." Eizen answered.
"What is he going to do with those?" Hilda muttered curiously.
"Ladies and gentlemen, coming out of these small balls, are the partners for my performance." Andrew said as the people started gathering around them as they cheer for him.
"Come on out, Bella! Splodyhead!" Andrew said as Bella and another Pokémon comes out from their respective pokeballs, earning cheers from the crowd. The other is humanoid figure with a slender torso, a ball shaped head that it's not attached to the body, and wide hips. Its legs are white with balls on the front, a pink one on the left leg and a blue one on the right leg. Its feet are shaped as if it is wearing high-heeled boots with pointed tips. The main body is yellow with alternating pink and blue stripes. It has a white ball on its chest and one as a tail. Its right arm is pink and its left arm is blue. Its hands are white and have frills on the wrists. A larger frill is around its neck and in the middle is a hole. It's head has a multitude of pink and blue dots that are supposedly made of tiny sparks. On both sides of its head are stars with an alternating pink and blue color pattern, and In the middle of these stars are yellow spots which may be it's eyes. This Splodyhead the Blacephalon, one of the Ultra Beast that Andrew caught.
"Hello, everyone! Welcome to our Menagerie." Bella said as she stands up before she bows at them, impressing the crowd. Bella proceeds to blow some bubble from her nose, causing the crowd to cheer even further despite hoe gross that sounds.
"Hi there, boys and girls! Our show is about begin! But before that, let's start this..." Splodyhead said as he launches his head high into the air. "...With a bang...!" As he said that, the head exploded into a fireworks, shocking everyone before the crowd cheers.
"D-Did that malak's head just explode?!"
"I never seen anything like them! Especially that white slender malak!"
"His head exploded?!" Rokurou exclaimed before Splodyhead's Head regenerated.
"I'm okay everyone. Nothing to be afraid of!" Splodyhead said as this make the cheers even further.
"Sea lion mermaid and a malak that it's head can explode? This boy is impressive!" Hilda commented.
Andrew whispered Magilou about something, causing her to giggle as she use her spell to change Andrew's outfit...into another one. He now wears an unbuttoned black blazer over a black-trimmed cream sweater, blue jeans, and brown shoes.
"Aaaaaand from this bag, is another malak who also going to be helping me!" Andrew said as he shakes his bag before Rotom comes out with a blonde wig.
"Hello hello! Ladies and gentlemen! Here's your one and only the handsome Rotom!" Rotom said as he introduce himself.
"And there's a red malak that I also never seen before. It seems these creatures are quite lively. Just like Erika's." Hilda commented.
"To commemorate this day, we are going to sing a song that you never heard before, so I hope you enjoy this!" Andrew said as the cheers more quickly.
"All right, darling. Start the singing!" Magilou said as Andrew nod.
"Rotom, play it!" Andrew said as Rotom plays a music
[play Endless Possibilities from Sonic Unleashed]
(Music starting)
Andrew: "This is my escape"
"I'm running through this world
And I'm not looking back"
(Music)
"'Cause I know I can go
Where no one's ever gone
And I'm not looking back"
(Music)
Bella: "But how will I know when I get there?"
"And how will I know when to leave?
We've all gotta start from somewhere
And it's right there for me
The possibilities are never ending!"
Andrew: "I see it, I see it"
"And now it's all within my reach
Endless possibility..."
"I see it, I see it now"
"It's always been inside of me
And now I feel so free
Endless possibility!"
(Music)
Andrew: "And so I'll carry on"
"My time to shine has come
I feel it!"
Splodyhead: "As fast as I can go"
"Straight to the top I know
You'll see it!"
(Music, Splodyhead launches his head to the sky again that exploded into fireworks before his head regenerated again)
Bella: "So please wake me up when I get there"
"It feels like I'm lost in a dream
I know in my heart that it's my time
And I already see
The possibilities are never ending!"
Andrew: "I see it, I see it"
"And now it's all within my reach
Endless possibility..."
"I see it, I see it now"
"It's always been inside of me
And now I feel so free
Endless possibility!"
(Music)
Splodyhead: "Drop that smile, 'cause you're beaten again!"
Andrew: "No, this is where my journey begins!"
(Music)
Splodyhead: "You're losing speed, you're losing your flow"
Andrew: "But inside is a power you'll never know!"
Splodyhead: "And let it out - it's inside you!"
Andrew: "Better all stand back, 'cause I'm coming through!
(Music)
Andrew and Splodyhead then do some dances that impresses and rally the crowds, even the guards are enjoying it the performance.
"He's pretty talented." Hilda noted as she felt her heart is racing, causing she put her hand by her chest. 'What is this...feeling...?' She thought as she's also blushing.
As fun as the performance was, a group of guards from outside notice it.
"What is going on here?" The guard leader asked.
"Sir! It's seems there is a group of unauthorized performers there." One guard answered.
"Let's check on it." The guard leader said as they go towards the crowd as they see one of their own dancing. "You better stop dancing or I'll fire a lot of you!"
"Y-Yes sir." The guards that was dancing stop as they move to the crowd who is watching Andrew's performance.
Luckily, Andrew noticed the guards.
"Uh oh." He said before looking towards Magilou. "Hey, Magilou! I better wrap this up soon or those guards capture us!"
"Then do it, darling." Magilou said as Andrew prepare to sing again. "Remember. Magilou's Menagerie manufactures mirth! That was just a small example for the good citizenry of Loegres!" Magilou said happily with a kabuki pose. "Take it away, darling!"
"With pleasure." Andrew said with a smirk.
Andrew: "I see it, I see it
And now it's all within my reach...
I see it, I see it now
It's always been inside of me...
(Music)
Andrew: "I see it, I see it
And now it's all within my reach
Endless possibility...
I see it, I see it nowIt's always been inside of me
And now I feel so free
Endless possibility!
Splodyhead: "Endless possibility..."
Andrew: "Endless possibility!"
Splodyhead: "Endless possibility..."
Andrew: "Endless possibility!"
[Music end]
Once the song ends, the crowd give them a big applause.
"Thank you! Thank you very much!" Andrew said as he, Rotom, Bella, and Splodyhead bows to them before the Inventor returns Bella and Splodyhead inside their pokeballs and put them away.
"Hey! You can't advertise here! Stop! I said stop!" The guard leader said as he try to get to them, but the crowd made it impossible.
"Until next time, everyone." Andrew said as he pulls out two smoke bombs and throw it to the ground, causing a temporary smokescreen to appear. Which allow the group to get away safely.
(Somewhere)
Hilda managed to move out before the area she's in get covered with smokes.
"It seems I forgot that doing unauthorized performance aren't allowed here." She muttered as she sweatdropped. She then begin to walk to who-knows-where while continuing talking. "But still..." She said as she look up to the blue yet cloudy skies. "That boy might just what I need to convince Erika. But I have to convince him first however..." She muttered as she walk through the streets.
(Meanwhile, in Alola)
Gwen and Professor Kukui had just arrived in Iki Town, a town where the Melemele Island Kahuna lived.
"This is Iki Town. We can find the Kahuna here, Gwen." Kukui said.
"I see." Gwen said as they walk through the small town.
After walking for awhile, they see an elderly figure lifting some logs with a Pokémon. His skin is slightly tanned and has a white hair. He wears yellow coat with a blue shirt underneath it, a Z-Ring on his left wrist, a white sash wrapped around his waist with a rod in it, white shorts, and a pair of blue sandals. The Pokémon with him is a crustacean Pokémon resembling both a horsehair crab and the mythical yeti. It is mostly white, with a blue face and details, and light yellow hair with two taller hairs sticking out on top. It has fur, and has extra furry spots around its arms, mouth, and claws. Its arms are segmented into three parts, with a blue dot on the middle segment. Its claws have the appearance of a dark blue foot print or paw print, with the biggest mark being the actual claw. It has four legs with blue tips made out of ice. Its face consists of a light blue "mask", closed eyes and a large mouth that goes down into its chest fur. It has two large teeth showing as well. It has a marking on its chest probably to make it appear more like a yeti, which is usually portrayed as ape-like. On its stomach is an armor plate that is blue with light blue stripes.
"Alola, Hala. Been Helping Hand I see?" Kukui asked as the one named Hala notice him.
"Oh. Alola to you too, Kukui." Hala said as he puts down the log to meet with the Professor. "What brings you here?"
"I would like to meet someone." Kukui then look towards Gwen. "This is Gwen. She's recently just arrived in Alola from Kalos. She would like to participate in the Island Trials while looking for someone."
"It's nice to meet you sir." Gwen said as she do the Alolan greeting that Kukui taught her on the way here.
"Please, you may call me Hala young lady." Hala said as he returns the favor. He then look towards the Pokémon with him. "And this is my partner, Crabominable."
"(Welcome to Alola, you two. It's nice to meet you.)" Crabominable greeted in Pokémon Speak.
"Wow, what a unique Pokémon!" Gwen said as she pulls out her Pokédex from Kalos to get a description about Crabominable. But,...
"No data." The Pokédex said.
"Whoa, guess I forgot to update my Pokédex." Gwen said as she sweatdropped.
"I'll updated it before you go on your first trial." Kukui assured Gwen.
"You're here to look for someone while doing the Island Trials? That's a noble reason." Hala said as Gwen takes that as a compliment. Hala then pulls out a Trial Amulet from his coat. "Here you go, young Gwen."
"Thanks, Hala." Gwen said as she attached the amulet to her bag. Once she did that, a Pokémon can be heard through Iki Town.
"KOKOOO!"
"What was that?" Gwen asked before a peculiar Pokémon suddenly appears im front of her. It's head and torso are black with white markings on its chest, just above its eyes, and on top of its head. Extending from the top of its head is a large, orange plume with bristles along the back. There is a yellow marking covering the top bristle and half of the bristle below it. The bottom of this crest goes all the way to its neck, where it divides its face in half and creates a beak-like nose. It has small, blue eyes with yellow markings behind them. The lower half of its body is orange with four pointed projections: one short spine on the front and two short spines in the back, with one longer spine between them. These spines resemble a bird's tail feathers. Its thin arms have round, yellow structures encircling its shoulders. On each arm is a shell that appears to be half of a bird mask, and its hands end in two large claws to create a beak for the mask.
The mask itself is mostly yellow with black, orange, and white markings. There are three white triangular markings with black edges on the top of each half of the mask, which create diamond-shapes when the mask is closed. The 'eyes' consist of a white diamond connected to a slightly larger orange diamond, which is inside a larger yellow diamond. Each of these shapes is edged in black. On each half of its beak is an orange triangle with a white rim. There are wing-shaped structures on each side, toward the back.
"What is this?!" Gwen asked as the Pokémon observed her.
"(Aren't you an interesting-looking tourist?)" The Pokémon said.
"It's Tapu Koko, this Island's Guardian." Kukui said as he was surprised.
"An Island what?!" Gwen said as Tapu Koko then took something from Gwen's bag.
"What the-Hey!" Gwen said as she close her bag before seeing what's on Tapu Koko's hand. It's a pendant with a blue gem in it.
"(Mind if I'm borrowing this?)" Tapu Koko asked rhetorically as it immediately take off with the stolen item with it.
"Hey! Give it back! Someone important gave that to me!" Gwen said as she give chase to Tapu Koko.
"Professor Kukui! Let's after them!" Hala said as he returned Crabominable.
"Right." Kukui said as they go after Gwen.
Gwen chase the mischievous deity through Mahalo Trail. 'I can't lose that. I just can't!' She thought she run through the path and the bridge before stopping as it also stop.
"Can you give it back to me? It's very precious." Gwen pleaded.
"(Since you asked nicely...)" Tapu Koko said as he simply toss the pendant to her.
"Thanks." Gwen said as she put the pendant into her bag. She then sees Tapu Koko raring up to a battle.
"Huh?" That's all Gwen said.
"(You seemed strong, human. Now that I lead you here, let's have a battle.)" Tapu Koko said. Evnthough she didn't understand what's it saying, she can tell that there's a Pokémon who is spoiling for a fight.
"I see. So that's why you took my pendant. Okay, let's have a battle." Gwen said with a smirk as she pulls out a Pokeball.
Unbeknownts to her, Kukui and the Kahuna, Hala are watching from behind.
"Intriguing. To think Tapu Koko already picking a fight with trainer outside Alola." Hala said.
"Yeah. It's quite rare to see Tapu Koko like this." Kukui added. Both of them will be expecting a battle.
"Let's go, Sorrel!" Gwen said as she throws her pokeball in the air, causing a Pokémon appear from it. It is a bipedal, canine-like Pokémon, with fur that is predominantly blue and black. It possesses a short, round spike on the back of each forepaw, in addition to a third on its chest. It has red eyes, a long snout and ears. When its mouth is open, it has two pairs of pointed teeth, one in the upper jaw and one in the lower. It possesses cream-colored fur on its torso, and blue fur on its thighs that resembles shorts. It has a medium length tail of the same blue color as well. It stands on its toes rather than on its entire foot. It possesses four black appendages that hang down from its head. And it's wears a red arm guard that holds a Mega Stone for its species. This is Sorrel the Lucario, the fighter of Gwen's group.
"(I sensed an aura like that of a Legendary Pokémon.)" Sorrel said telepathically as he goes on a fighting stance. "(But for Master's sake, I will fight.)"
"I wonder what young Gwen has in store for this battle?" Hala commented.
"(Okay then. Let's get this started!)" Tapu Koko said as he activates Electric Terrain via his ability.
(Vs Island Guardians theme)
"Is this Electric Terrain?" Gwen asked.
"Yes and no. That's Electric Surge, Tapu Koko's ability." Kukui explained as Gwen noticed them
"Hm? When did you two got here? Guess it doesn't matter. I learned something new today." Gwen said as he look towards Sorrel. "Sorrel, use Meteor Mash!"
"(As you wish, Master!)" Sorrel said as one of his arms glows bright blue before punching Tapu Koko with it.
"(Impressive attack.)" Tapu Koko said as he glows pink. "(Let's see you can take Nature's Madness!)" He said as he unleashes the attack, draining Sorrel half of his stamina.
"(This attack...is not to be underestimated.)" Sorrel said as he feels the damage.
"(I wasn't done yet. Taste Acrobatics!)" Tapu Koko said as the Land Spirit Pokémon glows light-blue, and it quickly zips through the air before tackling the opponent.
"Don't give up, Sorrel! Use Bone Rush!" Gwen cheered before ordering as the Aura Pokémon puts his paws together and spreads them apart, creating a light green bone of energy.
"(Hrrah!)" Sorrel shouted as he damages Tapu Koko greatly since the latter is part Electric type before the bone disappear.
"(Outstanding. You actually use a move I'm weak against.)" Tapu Koko said.
"Now, Aura Sphere!" Gwen ordered as Sorrel puts his paws together and creates a blue ball of energy in between them. He then fires the ball at the opponent.
"(Oh no you don't. Electro Ball!)" Tapu Koko said as he throws an Electro Ball to intercept Aura Sphere. Thanks to the Electric Terrain, Electro Ball goes right through Aura Sphere and hits Sorrel as he was pushed backwards.
"Sorrel! Are you okay?" Gwen asked her Pokémon.
"(I'm fine, Master.)" Sorrel said. Gwen look towards her Mega Ring, intending to do something.
"No more holding back. Sorrel, Mega Evo-" Before she can finish, Tapu Koko suddenly put one of his hand in a front of them, signaling the battle is over.
"Huh?" Gwen said.
"(I think I have enough...for now at least)" Tapu Koko said.
(Music end)
"(Very well. We shall finish this another day.)" Sorrel said as he and Gwen agreed to stop the battle. Tapu Koko then took off to somewhere.
"Guess that's enough for today. I'm a bit tired after all." Gwen said as he pulls out Sorrel's pokeball. "Good job, Sorrel. You deserve a rest." She said as she returned him into his pokeball before putting it away.
"(What a day this turn out to be.)" Holly said as she comes out from Gwen's bag.
"Yeah." Gwen said as she sees Kukui and Hala walk towards.
"Got to admit, that was an impressive battle, Gwen." Kukui said.
"Indeed. Though you need more than winning a battle to pass the Island Trials." Hala added.
"Thanks." Gwen said.
"Now, I'm pretty sure you're tired like after using Overheat, so why not sleep at my place for the night? I'll set a mattress for you." Kukui said.
"Are you sure? I don't want to trouble you, Professor." Gwen said.
"Don't worry, Gwen. I don't mind at all." Kukui said.
"Oh okay. Thank you for letting me stay." Gwen said as Hala laughed.
"You're an interesting young lady, I give you that." Hala said. "You should rest, Gwen. Your trial will start tomorrow. Any more details will be explained tomorrow also."
"T-Thank you sir." Gwen said as they leave Mahalo Trail.
(With Andrew and co.)
'Velvet! Don't do this. At least not now!'
Things are not looking good for Andrew. Eventhough he and his group managed to evade the guards, as they walk, there is a problem: Because Artorius is at the ceremony as it already started. Velvet want to see him in person...and maybe try to attack him from a safe distance. The Inventor is currently climbing the walls to reach Velvet, who is already there watching the ceremony.
Andrew knew Velvet have a grudge, thus making her reckless in pursuit of vengeance.
"Even though the world was filled with suffering, I had ask something tremendous of you all." A voice of Artorius can be heard to Andrew. And speaking of Artorius, he's not alone. Accompanying him are Oscar, Teresa, who have recovered, several exorcist praetors, and an elderly man with a monocle who seems to be a powerful figure in the Abbey. "I entrusted you the pain of Reason. I asked you to bind yourselves with the shackles of your own free will! For the only blade that can expel calamity is one forged from unshaking reason and the iron will to do what must be done!"
'You might be acting all high and mighty talking about the greater good, but that doesn't change the fact you turned an innocent young lady into something she wants no part of!' Andrew thought angrily while climbing. Unbeknownst to him, his eye color change to two colors. His left eye is purple with the Moone Symbol while his right eye is orange with the Sunne symbol.
This is noticed by someone...hidden among the crowds. It is a black haired man wearing a black trench coat underneath his white shirt, black trousers, and black long boots. A notable feature of him is that he's eyes are closed.
"So...the current wielder of the cursed gauntlets has arrived." He muttered stoically. "Unimpressive maybe, but one should never judge a book from his cover." He then smirks. "How will he break these...false peace made by the misguided is remain to be seen." The man then leave the crowd unnoticed...as if he was never there in the first place.
Artorius proceeds to raise his left arm high as he face to the crowd. "And now that very blade stands ready...before all of us today! I offer my body and my life in service to the people of this great land!" Artorius proclaimed. "With the blessings...of the Empyrean Innominat, I will guide to a world without calamity! And this world suffering...will be nothing but a distant memory!" As he said that, the crowd cheers for him at his statement.
Velvet can only clenched her bandaged arm. "But you're the one who murdered..." Before she can finish, Andrew put his hand on her head and forces her to duck.
"Keep that up and they'll see you. I know you know that you can't take him on...not now at least." Andrew warned while saying the last part quitely as his eyes are return to normal. Laphicet soon arrived, following the two.
"You're the one who killed Laphicet." Velvet muttered.
"Huh?" Laphicet said as he was confused.
"Don't worry, she isn't referring to you. But someone else." Andrew assured as Laphicet understand. Velvet can only sit and watch as her archenemy get recognition while she gets to suffer for something she didn't do. Andrew stares Artorius with full of hatred in his eyes. 'You may be a hero to these people, but not in my eyes. I won't be fooled to your honeyed words, after what you did to Velvet...' Andrew, Velvet, And Laphicet proceeds to leave and arrive where the others is.
"The Shepherd Artorius...THAT'S who you're after?" Eizen asked as Velvet nod.
"Oh, and here I was hoping you'd just straight-up pounce on him." Magilou said.
"That would be certain death. No, I need a sword of reason and will." Velvet replied. As much as she wants to mangle Artorius right here right now, even she knows that's over-the-top reckless. "That's the only thing that can kill him."
"Killing...Lord Artorius...?" Laphicet muttered.
"Playing it safe? Boooooring." Magilou said.
"Be it as it may, all we know that he is powerful than any enemies we fought." Rotom said.
"Regrettably, it is at this juncture we go our separate ways. I've got a bit of hunting to do." Magilou said.
"Hm? You're leaving, Magilou?" Andrew asked.
"Yes. Though I have feeling that we will meet again in the near future." Magilou answered.
"Go ahead. No one is stopping you." Velvet said.
"Goodbye." Laphicet sadly said.
"Farewell. May your days be fruitful and your nights be tormented!" Magilou said as she leave the group.
"That's a weird goodbye of I ever heard one." Andrew commented.
"Indeed zzt." Rotom added.
"If our enemy's calling himself a Shepherd, he won't be going into hiding. Let's take this slowly." Rokurou advised.
"Just what I was thinking. Haste make waste after all." Andrew added.
"That old man behind him...Melchior, I take it?" Eizen asked.
"Yeah." Laphicet answered.
"Let's gather information on these people. If we know what they're planning, we can find a weakness." Eizen said.
"They're the most powerful men in the land. If we're going to look into them, we need a lead first." Rokurou added.
"Eizen, do you have any underworld contacts in the capital itself? Like your friend at the port?" Velvet asked.
"I don't go inland much, I'm afraid. But Aifread has close ties to a shadow guild here in Loegres." Eizen said. "There's a tavern around here run by an old man called Baskerville. He serves as a front to them."
"A shadow guild? Those sorts of things actually exist?" Velvet asked.
"I think I have an idea what is a shadow guild is, but I can't remember why." Andrew added. Then Laphicet's stomach growls as he was blushing.
"Ha!"
"Hah! That's settles it! Let's head to that tavern. They'll have food, I'm sure." Rokurou said.
"Sure, why not." Velvet said as they decided to go to where the tavern is.
(Somewhere, ?)
In some pocket dimension, which is purplish and orange colors, a single flame is seen floating while it's lit. The flame slowly took a shape of a human female.
Suddenly, a majestic voice suddenly can be heard.
"It is not your destiny perish. I believe there's still a role for you to finish. Now...be revived!"
To be continued...
Next Chapter: Chapter 7: The Nectar and the Crybaby Exorcist
Chapter 6's out, so I hope you enjoy it!
Before answering a question from a guest review, I have to apologized for the lateness of this chapter. There are reasons. First, I have a writer's block. Second, I was depressed that I didn't make the cut at the public universities entrance exams, causing the aforementioned writer's block. But on the contrary, I did get a place in a private college. Third, I have been playing games from the old days, so I didn't do writing for quite some time.
Here's the answer to the question:
The RWBY story, "SFRE: Guardian Dragons" is not discontinued. I just taking care of other stories, that's all. But don't worry, I'll be writing them real soon.
It's Fun Facts Time:
-The song above is from Sonic Unleashed.
-The skit is resembles one of the episodes from Pokémon the Series: Sun and Moon as well as the Tapu Koko battle.
-Sorrel's name is from a character who also happens to have a Lucario in Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You.
-Kukui's Ace Pokémon is a Braviary, since his the first Pokémon that Kukui shown to have in the anime.
As shown above, an ally of Velvet is in the process of being revived by a mysterious entity. Who and what purposes it have will explained later in the story.
Leave a review and have a wonderful day/night!
