Profound Waters

by Staradventure55

Taking place shortly after Greninja's Origins, the Chasers have stumbled upon a collaboration between the big name villains. Their objective is unknown and there are no leads toward an idea or theory. Attempting to balance their new investigation with their duty to protect the people while getting Greninja, a newcomer for both the Chasers and Smash prepared for the worst.

10. Malicious Void

Malicious Abyss

The truth had come in such a bizarre fashion, that it were almost unrealistic. The Hands that governed the outer realms were truly beyond comprehension. Texts spoke of an entity whose heart sat on the edge of non-existence, Crazy Hand. Driven by an obsessive need to mock all life, Crazy made any wrongdoing committed by Master seem like mere child's play. It was Crazy that took up the guise of various humans, instigating greater hostility between the worlds during the terrible war, Universal Peril. Unlike Master, Crazy didn't care for the interaction between species, but how many would perish from such a war.

Greninja finally got to witness the incarnation of evil firsthand within the outer realms. Crazy was in fact responsible for the raids, providing bandits the tools needed to accomplish them. Crazy stood high on his two middle fingers, laughing with such a condescending tone it could send the most patient ninja into a maddening rage. That very madness took over Greninja within an instant. With aggression spewing from his widened eyes, Greninja dashed for the Hand, screaming out his frustration.

Crazy Hand's thumb shot up, screaming like some overly frightened woman in a horror film. The knight went in for the interception, taking off with surprising speed that even had the rogues blinking several times. Their blades clashed, nearly sending Greninja to the ground. Her strength rivaled some pokemon he fought against. Despite this, he wasn't moved.

"OUT OF MY WAY, "Hollered Greninja. Almost as expected, the knight didn't abide. She just stared at him with murderous eyes. "DON'T MAKE ME HURT YOU!"

"Oh froggy, PLEASE DO, "screamed the knight as she forced more pressure on Greninja's defense, causing him to slide backwards. "You're not gonna lay a HAND on Crazy."

"FORGET THIS, "Greninja leapt backwards, gaining some distance from the knight. Upon landing, the two gave heavy stares to the other. Her stance spoke of experience. Crazy must had taught her well. "I WILL NOT FIGHT HIM! AND I WON'T ALLOW YOU TO HARM THOSE PEOPLE!"

Greninja threw his katanas with deadly accuracy for the knight, dashing as they flew. With a crooked grin, the girl swatted away the blades with her free hand. As the knight rushed forward, two blasts of water shot from Greninja's hand. The hydro pump sent the knight flying back a bit, tumbling to a stop. As she rose, Greninja was swiftly sliding across the line of water created. Before she could react, Greninja turned his back toward her as his momentum carried him. He drove his elbow into her stomach. Silverish fluid flew from her mouth as she bent over his limb. Greninja forced a sweeping kick through her legs. As she fell flat onto the ground, Greninja propelled himself into the air by forcing two blasts of water onto her body. As hydro pump ended, a water pulsed formed within Greninja's hand. The pokemon held it downward during his descent, watching the girl frantically wipe the water from her eyes. As they opened, all she saw was a water pulse inches away from her face. As the pulse drove her head into the ground, it expanded to where it completely obscured her body. The explosion sent Greninja hurling from the smoke.

Upon landing, Greninja's sight made a sharp turn for the trembling Hand behind him. With pure rage overshadowing his caution, Greninja charged for Crazy. The rogues dared not to move, staring at Greninja like if he were a legendary. Somehow, sweat was dripping down the Hand's glove-like exterior. His middle fingers danced around in place. He waved his palm all around the space of the void to find no aid.

"OH MAN….OH MAN, HE EVEN DEFEATED MY RIGHT HAND GAL. IT…...IT'S TOO SOON FOR ME TO BE A FINAL BOSS, "Crazy hollered as Greninja leapt for the air. A water pulse formed in Greninja's hand. Some sort of revelation dawned within Crazy, and made all the sweat from before evaporate within an instant. He took up his high and mighty stance, laughing joyously. "WAIT, I'm the undefeatable boss during the prologue!"

Just when Greninja were within striking distance, Crazy shot his thumb toward him. A violet barrier instantly appeared around Crazy, stopping the frog in his tracks. Greninja once again found himself flying back from the pulse's explosion, engulfing Crazy in blackened smoke. Water swirled around Greninja's hands, but an energized bolt soaring from the smoke disrupted the flow. Barely stepping out of its path, Greninja watched the bolt explode behind him. He glanced over to Crazy to see him floating in the air doing his best impression of a hand gun.

"Madness is such a wonderful treat, isn't it , "Crazy said with an unusually calm tone. "Yes…...yes, Gardevoir's eyes hasn't aged a bit. Soooo, you got a little bias for humans, huh? You'll hesitate with humans cause you're all lovey dovey with them, but me…..oh you'll see me bleed out."

"WHAT! DO….DON'T BE…..,"

"Or are you planning on…...arresting me?"

"Th…..that's right. The Federation will know what to do with you."

"Really…...really? Don't know how you plan on carrying me over to a starship with that scrawny body. I'm the fight to the bitter end kind of guy anyway. Now, stop speaking such nonsense and listen to your true self."

"My…...true self?"

"You should've felt it a little while ago, your hatred."

"Succumbing to hatred…...is not the answer. The same people who mistreated my kin are prove of that."

"Oh what a lovely language that is. Peace is love. Peace is life. If only the universe was so giving to such outstanding citizens. Alas, it didn't give you any strength during the times you needed it. Ya know, the reptilicus, Ruto, and Sylux."

Time came to a halt for Greninja when he heard those names. The fear he felt in his dreams finally surfaced to reality, forcing him to unknowingly take a few steps backwards. How would Crazy Hand know about them if he were just seeing Greninja for the first time? As that thought passed, Crazy shook his finger.

"WATER ya thinking about toad? It wouldn't be how I know about them, right? Please, I've been watching you since your recruitment. Though it was Master who knew about you first. He just so happened to pass the information along. That skit with Davy Weavel was just for fun. Nevertheless, I did want to see you, but I had to confirm something first. Good news though, you have potential after all. So let me give you a HAND."

Crazy softly landed upon the ground, extending his thumb as far to the side as he could, "Destroy me!"

"WHAT?!"

"Ya heard me! Don't worry, no one will hassle you for doing so. I caused so much ruin to all those puny worlds, so many glamourous deaths. Who knows, you may even be considered a true hero amongst the Smashers. A newcomer who achieved the impossible with his bare hands…...I mean flippers…..or whatever you call those things. You'll be placed on a pedestal far above whatever status those elderly Superiors have. Wasn't that your goal?"

It had to be a lie. Greninja were speechless to the absurd request. An entity driven by chaos asked for death by his hand. It were true that many hated Crazy's existence, but was it really his call? Still, he had to ponder the idea. Even Weavel seemed to hate the mere thought of the Hand. Being so malicious, it be hard to imagine anybody would cry over Crazy's death. Even so, a lingering thought ceased his pondering.

"Forget it! I'm not gonna play your games!"

Crazy immediately took on a somber posture. His palm was bent way down with his thumb dangling, "Gotta HAND it to ya, the boy scout mentality is strong with you. You must be one of those idiots who let the most dangerous of beings live because…...morality. Man, I thought we had ourselves a winner, but it seems you're destined to fail. Oh well, I guess you'll just have to die."

"WHAT!"

"Whaaaaaa, didn't you just hear what I said before. You and this little fella here will duke it out to the bitter end. Since you're too much of a goodie two shoes to ever draw blood, I suppose that means you're just dandy about death. And you know he isn't going to let you get in the way of his booty."

"DON'T BOTHER, "A sharp tone echoed profoundly from behind Greninja. He slowly turned for the source, horrified by the sight. The knight from before now rode upon a rowdy horse, completely encased in the silver disfigurement that made up almost half of the girl. Together, they emitted a bloody aura that frighteningly complemented her crazed gaze toward the frog. The tip of her sword was thrusted in his direction. "WHEN I'M DONE, CRAZY WILL BE HAVING FROG LEGS FOR DINNER!"

"HOOOOOOOOOLLLLLLD, "Crazy shouted as he leapt into the air, gaining absurd height. HIs landing was steady akin to a gymnast, guarding Greninja from her harsh intentions. "Winggal, everyone has to earn their paychecks, you know. You'll get your playtime, but I just need you to be a little patient is all."

"But…...but he clearly doesn't care for his own life! And there is no way those meat sacs could beat froggy. Why you going easy?"

"Because child, outta all of us, he's the only one who could inspire hope!"

Crazy spun himself around more times than Greninja could bare to look at, eventually facing toward the frog with his thumb stretched out, "HE IS A NEW SEED! AND LIKE ALL SEEDS, WE NEED TO HE….."

"WAIT, "A shinobi spat out, frightening the Hand into ushering an exaggerated squeal. Greninja couldn't find it within him to be mad at the human. Something were off. The confidence that radiated from him evaporated, leaving behind eyes that flickered akin to a dying lamp. "Why do we have to fight him? We seen your work, why not off him yourself? Or have the girl do it? I mean…...she just said we couldn't beat it!""

"Ohhhhhh, I geeeeeeet it, "The girl joyously screeched, giving off a gaze toward the rogues that had their wills tremble. "The awe those toys had went all poof, haven't they?"

"Gods, there she goes again, talkin' all that nonsense! What toys?!"

"You silly! And not just you…, "Even a machine held more of a soul than her horrid, mechanical laughter. Greninja could only feel pity for the rogues, despite their initial goal. Their dark days were about to begin by the looks of it. His instincts screamed at him, leaving Greninja as still as a substitute doll, incapable of processing the situation.

"Sniff…..sniff, metalloids grow up so fast! I knew making a metalloid out of her was a grand idea, "Crazy Hand boasted, making the knight blush in glee. Within an eye's blink, Crazy's body vanished into dust, abruptly appearing behind the shinobi. Abysmal darkness that made up Crazy's heart rotted anything it came in contact with, even though his reappearance made not a sound, his henchmen froze to death's presence. Fidgety hands could barely keep their daggers in check, sweating like deserters in an endless desert. With a mighty leap, Crazy shot two fingers straight at Greninja. "LEAP!"

An icy bite usually received within snow filled mountains assaulted his feet, slowly slithering upward. A wide eyed glance saw a whirlpool coated in silver, actively spreading right beneath him on its own accord. An incomprehensible screech flowing from the liquid dominated his bravery. Tendrils latched onto Greninja's legs. Greninja leapt from the danger, seeing the liquid easily slip off him. The puddle grew to about the size of a table at one of those cafe's within Kalos, forming into different shapes.

"I can't let my little sidekick here get all bored, and quite frankly, she was speaking some mad truth about you guys, "Crazy ended in a mutter, "RISE…...FALLEN ONE….RISE AND SERVE YOUR NATION ONCE MORE. IN THE NAME OF ENTERTAINMENT, I RESURRECT THEE. FIGHT FOR THE HONOR OF THESE FIENDS!"

The liquid abided, like if Crazy were its master. It rose itself, gathering all its essence in the process. Resurrection! What kind of power did Crazy possess? And what of this "Master"? These questions haunted Greninja with the liquid taking up the sloppy form of a human by the looks of it, though it were quickly questioned again when a tail started to form as well. Not much time had passed, yet the liquid swiftly refined the outer layer: sharpened the edges and curves, added details that eventually made it evident it were wearing clothes, and molded animal-like ears that made the body even more confusing. Color eventually faded in, completing the transformation, and thus it started moving on its own accord.

Basic human designs were taken into consideration for this man, but half of his person must had belonged to a beast of sorts, sorta reminding Greninja of a Ninetails, but with a light shade of orange fur from his puffy tail and ears. A white patch sat at the tail's end, as well as puffs of white fur protruding from the inside of his ears. Black and white striped cloth were loosely tied around his neck and waist, lying over top a darkened blue shirt that hugged his body. Black leggings traversed to about a little below the knee, eventually being cut off by bleach, tabi socks within an open black footwear. An olive complexion of his slightly revealed chest matched that of any exposed skin.

His blank expression never left Greninja once they rested upon him, lacking any kind of hostility or passion. Movement failed to faze this individual, not the soundous chuckling from both the knight and Crazy, or the battle stance Greninja took up. Maybe he were just that focused, or perhaps he weren't focused in the slightest, staring off into space in hopes someone would inform him. If Crazy were to be believed, and as hard as resurrection was to believe, one would assume anybody would be speechless to suddenly wake within the void. After all, the shock of real resurrection paled in comparison to the void, and more so compared to a floating, talking Hand that bred madness. Greninja couldn't find it within himself to question what he saw.

"Looky here my furry friend, "Crazy hollered. "I did you a big ole favor, and i'm lookin' to collect my own. Before we go into that though, that frog said some horrible things about your dead clansmen, and I just couldn't sit by and watch. It were sounding a bit too….familiar, like…..if he were part of something that caused your ruin…...if you catch my drift."

"Do you expect him to buy anything of that, "Greninja retaliated, glaring at the Hand.

"What conclusions are ya LEAPIN' to now? Why does it even matter if he believes it or not? I did say he came here in the name of entertainment, and he will repay my favor by acting in my favor, which means a death battle, of course. I'm simply giving him some lore, striking motivation into that pup, that's all. BUUUUUUUUT, to save you the trouble, he ain't gonna understand pokemon speech, so you're forever D RANK strangers!"

"I SAID I…...ARGH, ENOUGH OF THIS! I DON'T CARE WHAT YOU ARE, "Greninja sprinted for the Hand, skiing a newly formed water katana across the landscape. "I CAN'T STAY HERE! I WON'T DIE HERE!"

The frantic nature of Crazy rose its ugly head with Greninja's swift approach, forcing a worried dance upon the air by his two middle fingers. Reasons better off not known kept his sidekick at ease, merely watching what she must had deemed a pointless endeavor. It were then, at that exact moment, his instincts hollered at him. A chill ran along his spine with the rapid steps of some other being approaching from behind. Glancing back revealed nothing but the wide jaw of an airborne creature he hadn't seen yet, looking to tear his face off. Greninja slid to the side, processing the heat that spewed from the creature's mouth. With a graceful landing, it slid back into Greninja's direction, growling with the intentions of a starved beast. A large fox were the aggressor, lined with the same fur texture as the supposed resurrected man-beast. It leapt side to side upon its black paws, loosely followed by two dark blue, bodies of flames. Somewhat spiky patches of red laid behind its arms.

A creature swift as Greninja couldn't be ignored, but he knew not about the whereabouts of the humanoid. Or were that creature that very man?"

"So sorry about that! Kinda had to cheat a little with this one, "Crazy commented. "This fella can now transform on the fly! Neat, I know!"

"Tra…..transform?!"

"Yuuuuup, he the same dude I brought back earlier."

"So…..he…..re...really is a beast!"

"He sure is, and buddy, you wouldn't believe his kill to death ratio when he was liv….."

Much like a wild beast to be impatient, darting for Greninja with almost soundless steps. His teeth swiftly came in for Greninja's stomach. The pokemon simply leapt over the fox, holding true to not playing Crazy's killing game. Even if the probability of success were miniscule, a part of him pleaded that he try and defeat the mastermind. Solely because Crazy spoke so loosely when motivating the beast-kin, chances were that Crazy's malicious natured leaked into his heart, acting akin to a brainwashed follower. He had to chance it! Upon landing, Greninja sprinted for the Hand with the growling fox giving chase.

Water shurikens formed within Greninja's hands, a sight that had Crazy dancing along the ground in a panicked state, somehow sweating up a storm. The shurikens soared for the group, eventually resulting in another morale crushing obstacle; an invisible light cobalt barrier separated the fighters from the others, stretching as wide as the island and an unattainable height made leaping a pipe dream. His weapons bounced off without even causing a spark, evaporating during their descent. The man-beast sped up on the confused pokemon. Greninja refused to glance behind himself, fearing that seeing such close bloodlust would have him freeze up. With the barrier so close, Greninja leapt onto the wall, immediately hopping off its frame. His rival's fur brushed against his feet, reminding him of the small distance they likely had. Mostly due to his beast-like mindset, the fox crashed into the barrier, falling flat on his belly. Greninja's elegant landing with a newly formed katana in hand warranted laughter from both the knight and Crazy.

"WATER you tryin' to do to me, toad, "Crazy hollered. "I mean…..I guess there is some sense to your madness. But am I truly the one you wanna fight right now? After all, i'm only trying to help you!"

"HE…..HELP? HOW IS THIS ANYTHING OF THE SORT, "Greninja vented, sending an echo across the void. He took up a stance to his enemy who were now hopping side to side again.

"Hmmmm, a tad bit boring to say, but I think froggy isn't ready for the juicy part, "The knight suggested, ushering a disdained glare at the frog. She took her time getting off her horse.

"Soooooooo….take some weights off the bar is whatcha gettin' at, "Crazy responded, rubbing his palm with his thumb as he pondered. "Mmmmmmaaaaaaayyyyybe…...you're onto something, sidekick. People came to see violence. A dodging session will only have folks leave mid ma….mid maa…...I can't complete that sentence, it's too embarrassing to even think about! ALRIGHTY THEN, GRENINJA, I'VE DECIDED AGAINST THE KILLING GAME!"

"Really! How convenient, "Greninja sneered, still maintaining his stance.

"I know right! Anyway, we're back to square one! I want you to simply stop him from moving! I'll take a mere knockout if that's more your style."

No normal being could comprehend Crazy's change of heart, not Greninja, or the shinobi that gave their leader a malicious glare. They couldn't do nothing though, not with the knight's hand firmly on her sword. A passive will overcame the fox. For whatever reason, the man-beast kept still, looking back at Crazy. Greninja would not be fooled. It couldn't be that simply, not when Crazy held so much power over the situation. A malicious entity actually caring about another creature were the most unlikely thing he had ever been asked to believe. He kept to his stance, waiting for the moment Crazy would be foolish enough to forsaken his barrier. Since the point he were brought here, Gardevoir's voice remained silent; a good chance her voice couldn't reach the void. Noticing the frog's reluctance, Crazy spoke once more.

"Boy, talk about a tough crowd. Still not convinced? Psssh, no hassle! Kinda expected you'd be that way. So i'll tell you what, how about a little…..motivation! Class, if we review the previous chapter, you'll remember that I were the one supplying these men here with metalloids to perform raids. It were also when I announced the death battle. Of course, since my sidekick brought to my attention that it would be a boring match, I decided to change the challenger. Although, I did say that if the shinobi won, they'd get enough metalloids to kill EVERYBODY ON BOARD! That same reward would apply if the beast-kin wins as well…...however…...however….."

Crazy started to levitate in the air, pointing at the knight, "Sidekick, help me out here! What should the reward be for the frog?"

"Ooooooh, that's too easy! Froggy here look like the savior type, soooooo…...let's use the people as the bone. If froggy here wins, how about we stop supporting the rogues. Buuuuuuuut, since i'm all about being fair, if the man-beast loses, "It were then that the darkness hidden her childish mask leaked out. Eyes opened wide, radiating with bloodlust. Her grin couldn't be wider, chuckling like the child she pretended to be. "KILL…...I WILL KILL ALL THE REMAINING SHINOBI AND BANDITS WHO SUPPORTED THE RAIDS!"

What were loyalty to Crazy; partnerships to him were simply temporary alliances to ensure his own entertainment. So many raids, so much time had passed since their initial deal, and still worth very little at the end. No hesitation or somberness could be found in her words, and both her and Crazy shared the same ideal. She couldn't be anymore serious, even were on the verge of laughing. One of the shinobi wouldn't grant her such luxury, and lunged toward the girl, flying a dagger for her heart. Her smile never faded, as if every motion he made she already pictured. A swift grasp onto his arm kept the blade at bay.

"DO…..DON'T YOU DARE MAKE ABSURD JOKES LIKE THAT AGAIN! I WON'T ALLOW IT, YA HEAR ME, "The shinobi hollered. His arms trembled with the motions of a frightened beast, trying to force himself through the immovable wall that were the knight. "WHAT ARE YA, HUH? JUST AN ART PROJECT THAT GREW A BLOODY BRAIN, ONE IN A MILLION BY THE LOOKS OF IT! YA AIN'T RESPECTABLE, AND AS FUNNY AS A DEAD MAN. KEEP YA MOUTH SHUT, AND STAY IN YOUR PLACE, WENCH!"

"My place, "It were then that the shinobi's mistake dawned on him, but it were too late. The intensity of the knight's grip were now on par with a Krookodile's bite, instantly succumbing the man to his knees. His pain riddled hollers didn't reach her heart, if she even had one. "And what of yours, shinobi? What would your precious queen say if she saw you here, right now, making dealings with us? It was YOUR PLACE to stay by her side, even after the war's end, but you just couldn't accept that, right? After the death of your favorite prince, you lost your minds, and left the damn kingdom to rot. That death…...your revenge…..we saw entertainment in them! We helped you to become the best entertainers to us, and you were lots of fun to watch. But alas, you're nothing more but a stupid shell, a husk of revenge. And now, you ninjas goofed up by becoming no good bandits! You're not wanted in either kingdom, nope, no PLACE whatsoever. STAY IN MY PLACE? HOW ABOUT I SEND YOU TO YOURS!"

Before everyone's eyes, without even the tiniest bit of sympathy or hesitation, she plunged her sword through his chest; blood splattered across her armor and face, and her eyes lit up like she hit the jackpot. Shook bounded the man into silence. A hopeless gaze fell onto his wound. An extreme act still wasn't enough, even with the shinobi's weapon leaving his hand. They all gave witness to a brutal display of the knight stabbing the man repeatedly, laughing childishly to the life draining from his eyes. The body fell, but that didn't mean anything. Her strikes continued, seemingly having more force behind following strikes. The earth around his motionless body were painted red, creating a sight that made the remaining shinobi fall in disbelief, processing the fate he may had doomed his allies to. Her frenzy finally slowed to a complete stop, resting upon the hilt of her sword, taking in deep breathes. When her gaze met with Greninja, he knew she wasn't tired, but overwhelmed by her own emotions. The blood that coated the knight made her look frighteningly natural, and she were unbothered by it. She thrusted a finger Greninja's way.

"Froggy, ignore these no good folk. Just whip out your sword and go all thwack….and swoosh, your passengers depend on it. Heh heh heh…."

"The…..the sidekick is out of control! She's growing too fast, "Crazy hollered, patting his sweating palm rapidly. "Is this what it feels like to have your child replace you as manager? It…..it's…...FANTASTIC!"

Crazy's whip lashing emotional state seemed to be a common thing for him, chuckling without even a spec of sweat present upon him for some reason. He pointed toward Greninja.

"Still though, I wish she didn't thwack the man. Now only that whimpering coward can give us the final image. Regardless, we had a good run with these blokes. Much better folk await us, but honor bounds us to these hooligans, ehhhh…..so to speak. How abouts doing us a solid and defeating that fox, yeah! It be a real pain if I had to listen to another crying session from the Chasers…..over another dead rookie! And not just you, the folks that were left under your watch. The bandits, or the passengers! One group must die! And you wouldn't want blood on your washed up soul, right?"

"DAMN YOU…...WHY…...why, "Greninja fleeting courage left through his tone, shunning his eyes from the horrific sight. This wasn't the first time he witnessed death. The natural cycle of his world had the food chain, and he occasionally gave witness to its workings, and even caused a few deaths himself for food. There were always a reason for it however, and he never sought after a human's life. The void were not a natural force, and neither were Crazy or the knight. She had no reason to kill, the shinobi were even an ally who dedicated time for their amusement, yet laid dead simply because the knight willed it so. Abnormals ideals, disdain for life, unnatural abilities beyond comprehension, yet Greninja thought even for a second that logic had a chance here. To destroy life beyond his own world never felt right, and Crazy was capitalizing on his emotions.

"I'm…..sorry, but…..you made your choice, "Greninja whispered, staring at the distraught man grasping at his hair's beginnings. "Fine, i'll….play whatever game you desire! Just please, don't hurt those people."

Greninja fell onto his knees, bowing before the Hand's prowess. Crazy's silence couldn't foster positive, or negative emotions within the frog; the heartache, his fear of denial, and his hope for mercy were equal in measure.

"Tell me, who ya referring to, "Crazy hand responded, "The hooligans? Or maybe…"

"PASSENGERS…...the passengers, obviously! You already know i'm a Chaser…...so…...I can't let you…...or him get in my way! If someone has to be sacrificed….then…"

"Sooooooo, you'll do anything, eh? GOOD! A nice heroic answer, even if a rookie is the one saying it. Buuuuuuut, just for the record, this ain't somethin' to be whining about. I mean, the shinobi are petty losers, traitors, casual killers my dude! They're beasts."

None of his agitating nonsense could stir Greninja anymore than he already had. Crazy's mindset were strictly set on tossing the rogues to the grave, but to what end? And what of the killing game? There were almost no point in questioning these things any longer, for Crazy or his sidekick would no doubt conjure more desperate jokes to dodge them. He looked to the mental picture of all the other Chasers, thinking about what they would do in this scenario. Even still, they all favored Crazy's game entirely. Some would yell, a few would cry, but death for themselves or the passengers wouldn't be accepted. Lucario would likely laugh at the idea of weighing rogues and passengers the same. At the very least, he could ease himself with not having to kill his opponent just for entertainment's sake. Greninja rose to meet the gaze of his opponent, thrusting his sword forward, albeit fear shook his hold.

"Hmmmm…...yes, a good start…..pretty good start, if not a bit disappointing, "Crazy muttered. "But, we all gotta start somewhere. Though…..now that I look at the fox, he be lookin' a bit…...weaker than when he died. Meh, my fault then. Anyway, go CRAZY you two!"

Loyal to the desires of his master, the fox were the first to resume the struggle. Greninja's body tensed, still uneasy about the whole affair, but death awaited his failure. A predictable lunge for Greninja were met with a just as swift side step. The tip of a water katana carved a lengthy cut along the fox's side. Short trails of silver lifeblood trickled out the wound, though the fox must had not noticed. Upon landing, it slowly shifted a beastly glare at Greninja. Through the workings of his unnatural rebirth, tendrils of silver essence clung to the wound, forcibly closing it, ironing out imperfections like nothing had happened. Greninja retook his stance, screaming at the top of his lungs internally. Were this a trick? No, Crazy already showed his disdain for the rogues; he likely wanted this to end as much as Greninja did. But this creature, it finally dawned on him what he were going up against. After occasional eavesdrops on Gardevoir, he learned of demons, claded in metal flesh, mimicking the physique of other living beings: Metalloids!

"Not even surprised you lied about this, "Greninja yelled, dashing for the fox with his blade ready to strike. The beast leapt back, hopping forward a little with its body twirling around upon landing. His tail barely clipped the ears of the ducking pokemon. From the corner of his eye, the beast caught a katana's tip quickly soaring in for a stab. He leapt to the side, and Greninja anticipated it. Twisting his direction on a single foot, Greninja launched three mini shurikens from his free hand in one swift motion. Every single one found a place upon the beast's body, one of which rested within the head. The fox hissed, frantically wiping off the shuriken with a paw. "Soooo…...they weren't exaggerating! These were the Metalloids she hated so much. "

"Whoooops, "Crazy Hand whimpered, shrugging with the confidence of a sinless man. He very quickly returned to his energetic persona. "I didn't wanna confuse ya, newbie. It's like tryin' to explain exponents to a preschooler. But ya damn kids and your curiosity. Yall are smarter than you appear. TRUE…..it be so true, it's nothing but a copy of the original. Happened to get a bit too lazy for real resurrection, so I opted for a Metalloid instead. Aren't I just a pro at procrastinating?"

No response were given. Those beyond the wall could only witness the lethal dance of close shaves, and precise strikes. Not the soundous chuckling from Crazy, nor the cheering from the knight could distract the fighters from one another. Flames orbiting the fox finally revealed their purpose. Flaming pellets flew from the orbs in flurries. Greninja dashed around the fox, avoiding the stream. Each fallen pellet levitated off the ground after some time, eventually returning to the source. The stream soon ceased, and the beast went on the offensive. Given little resistance, the fox bit down hard upon Greninja's shoulder. Smoke consumed both fighters, and the fox were left whimpering to his chewing causing what felt like splinters to assault the beast's mouth. A pain riddled growl flew from the beast with two water katanas striking down through the fox's back. Greninja reappeared untouched, forcing the beast into dropping the wooden substitute he created. A succession of stabs from the pokemon sent the fox into a wild rage, desperately trying to throw him off with abrupt movement. The orbs soon morphed into flaming spears, aimed for Greninja's head. The frog forsaken the swords, soaring into the air with hydro pump aimed directly onto the beast. The spears missed, and the fox were disoriented.

Patches of silver littered the beast's coat, gradually being absorbed into the body once more. Greninja wasted no time in closing the distance upon landing. Trails of water slithered along the arms to his hands.

"I WON'T LET YOU, "Greninja hollered, letting the newly crafted mini shurikens fly. A swift swat from the creature's tail disrupted every single one. Greninja kept a hand hidden behind his back, forming a water pulse. Ushering a bark, the fox rushed for the frog, darting from side to side. The fox's fangs came in, and so did the water pulse. The sphere were driven into the beast's mouth, detonating immediately. From the expanding smoke, the fox's frailing body tumbled across the field. His paws forced himself to a stop, and a high pitch bark escaped the fox with Greninja soaring from the cloud for him. The pokemon's back faced the beast, jetting himself through the air with a blast of water. His feet slid across the ground, quickly forcing a katana through the beast's side. Unleashing a mighty yell, Greninja dragged the katana through its insides, having it fly out with plentiful silver lifeblood following.

Somehow still in possession of a great deal of stamina after taking a devastating blow, the beast leapt away with trails of silver leaking about. It took steps akin to a drunkard, stalking around Greninja with a slight sway to its body.

"Just…..go…...down, " Greninja angrily muttered, but that only offended the creature. Venting displeasure through forceful barks, the fox darted for him once more. "Give me a….."

Greninja slid beneath the beast's leap, swiftly slashing against its abdomen. Upon landing it vented a hollow huff, lowering its posture. Spotting an opening, Greninja rushed to his feet, dashing in for the slash. Its ears shot up, and the beast twirled itself around. Its tail crashed into the frog's cheek. The frog tumbled about a short distance, thankfully that the beast were too shaken by its injuries to give chase right away. A heated sensation similar to being struck with flamethrower riddled his cheek. The legends were true, they struck with the strength of metal. Greninja, rubbing the struck cheek, looked to the fox drooling silver liquid, and to the water katana that had slid away from him on the other side. His rival looked ready to pounce, and their speed were almost equal. Greninja laid a palm out of the fox's sight. Greninja took to a kneeling position, yet didn't take to standing. Water quickly gathered beneath his hidden palm, keeping perfectly still.

Tales spoke of the Metalloid menace. Artificial creatures bred for a singular purpose, to fight endlessly. Even with gaping wounds, the fox still stalked without paying much heed to its injuries. Without its knowledge, a water katana took shape within Greninja's hand. The beast lunged in a moments notice. Acting just as swiftly, Greninja darted for the fox, keeping his posture low. A damning blow froze the beast. A katana burrowed into its stomach, and forced up the body and through its lower jaw. A kick to its abdomen sent the beast crashing upon its back, slowly whipping its legs and arms akin to an insect on the border of death.

The vibrant color that gave the fox life gradually devolved into the lifeless coloration of a basic metalloid. Liquidized flesh rapidly melted away from its solid shape; steam escaped through plentiful bubbles forming along its surface. A hand piercing through the disfigured body made Greninja leap back in fright, retaking his stance. Whole sections that were still a part of the fox ceased to stay together, thus ridding the beast of any familiar features. Another figure came splashing out of the ruin, coated entirely in the monster's essence; it were the beast in human form. A beaten pup it was, slowly crawling from its previous form. Its legs ceased to function, only good for leaving trails of essence behind. Hollow moans were all that greeted Greninja, yet his blade never budged. Struggling to even get halfway to the frog proved to consume its remaining life. The metalloid's arms trembled fiercely, caving in to their own weight. Their gazes met for a moment, and the creature vented out a final exhale, crashing down into a twitching state.

Nothing could persuade Greninja to face Crazy in triumph. Instincts directed his movements since his struggle's beginnings, yet they kept pestering despite the cause seeming lifeless. A curious step toward the fallen aroused a starving flame deep within the metalloid. Spontaneous vitality fueled the man beast's swift charge for the frog, acting out a finally push off the ground for the frog's life. As quick it was to reanimate itself, it wound up ceasing just as swiftly. A katana tore through the creature's shoulder, and protruded from its waist. Greninja, surprised himself, staring at his attacking arm that acted solely out of instinct. A burning sensation littered his heart, and spread further out. He fell to his knees, grasping onto his chest while trying desperately to breathe. It was just a metalloid, a phrase that he kept replaying through his head like a broken record. Nothing were left to keep the metalloid standing, thus cursing it to a quick collapse of its entire being.

"AAAAAAAAAAAAAHHH, "A soundous, overly exaggerated shriek reaching the far corners of the void nearly shocked Greninja's heart into stopping. A sharp glance saw Crazy standing on two fingers behind him, sweating up a storm.

"When did you….., "Greninja went silent watching the Hand fall upon his two middle phalanx'.

"YOU…...YOU KILLED HIM, AND HE WAS JUST BORN TODAY! I EVEN GAVE YOU AN OPTION, YET YOU STILL…"

"Are you done, "Greninja spat out, fighting through his trembling to face the Hand. "I played it…..alright, I PLAYED YOUR GAME…..AND WON! HAVE THE SPINE TO AT LEAST…..,"

"Yeah yeah yeah, I know the deal, "Crazy leapt back onto his middle fingers, washing away all the sweat he built up from his boastful laughter alone. He waved a middle finger Greninja's way. "I didn't care about that kitsune anyway! An idiot in reality, and a loser in death. Can't really be all that surprised that it didn't put up much of a fight, but that's beside the point! I'm a squeaky clean hand with chemicals for flesh, and the smell of cut grass flowing from my fingertips. I never even considered going back on my word, not even for a moment! Don't ya worry toad, I ain't gonna drown your peeps in metalloids, and i'm cutting off funds to the hooligans!"

"YAAAAAAY, froggy is pretty good for a stray, "Even before the knight approaching them spoke, her bloodlust radiated with the intensity of a Magmar, persuading his instincts to have him look her way. The remaining shinobi were dragged by the neck, incapable of overpowering her hold. Frantic kicks, incoherent noises, and nails scratching along her gauntlets did little to warrant the knight's attention. "Sooooo, should I start with this…"

Greninja's abrupt dash for the knight shocked Crazy into a straightened posture. Unfazed, the knight took a swipe at Greninja with her own blade. Blades clashed, and yet the knight still ushered a cheerful smile.

"Oooooooooo, I think I like froggy again! Buuuuuuuuuut, you should know I play rough. No worries though, I won't break ya, cause you know, your cute.

"Tell me, can you understand me too?"

"Uh huh! Crazy is such a great language teacher, you know!"

"Then i'll make this crystal clear! You will release him and leave his kind alone, or….or you'll suffer the other metalloid's fate! They deserve many things, but death shouldn't be one of them."

"Jeeeeez, we could've been best friends if you were this quick to kill the hooligans. You would've looked awesome in red!"

"QUIET, you're nothing but a metalloid. No one could expect you to understand mercy!"

"Heeeeeeeeeey, that's racist!"

"I'm just gonna…...walk over there, "Crazy whimpered, tip toeing away from the two with a slight shiver in his step.

"Maybe…...I should talk the only language you truly understand! I'll be the one to take his place!"

"What ya mean froggy?"

"You like to kill, right? Then I offer another game! I'll risk my life for theirs! Take me out, and you can do what….."

"I ACCEPT, "The knight's chuckled like a schoolgirl, throwing her captive out yonder. Her body ushered a violet aura, assaulting Greninja's body with an arctic bite. "Oh, i'm gonna wuuuuuuub this! PLEASE, GO CRA…"

The two ceased for a moment. An unusually sensation vibrated their bodies ever so slightly. Lightning that radiated a pure white glow crackled between the two; such an oddity only sparked a crooked head from Greninja, yet the knight's widened eyes couldn't tear themselves from the sight. An emotion Greninja never thought he see from the knight slowly overridden her need for blood, devolving into a trembling coward who couldn't even spit out a word. Greninja swiftly leapt away from her, and ushered a confused moan when the knight didn't budge in the slightest. Crazy's thumb tapped upon his palm, venting out frustration through exhales that scorched the very air.

"Te…...TELL HIM….TO BUG OFF, "The knight hollered, incapable of shifting her body still.

"Hmph, what a killjoy I swear, "Crazy muttered, walking toward the girl. His thumb rested upon her head. "We'll let him go for now."

"WHAT…...BUT…...BUT….."

"Oh don't you worry, we'll be having a LONG talk about this little intervention, mark my words! Just…...let him go for now. I hate to see you get erased from existence, "Crazy took a sharp turn toward Greninja. "As for you….."

It happened so fast. Every fiber of Greninja's being rebelled against him all at once, sending the poor frog crashing face first into the ground. Not a single fiber of muscle could stir, only desperate thoughts racing through his mind gave him the impression he were still alive. Crazy didn't capitalize on the situation, nor did his loyal sidekick charge in for the kill despite how notably upset she was. Humming an annoyingly pleasant tune, Crazy skipped over to Greninja. A frigid breeze that even the cruelest mountains in Kalos couldn't hope to rival tortured the frog as Crazy stood over him, waving around his thumb.

"Don't you worry now, we'll stick to the script next time! Why don't you go home and freshen up a bit, "Crazy glanced over to his knight, dragging along the struggling shinobi. He were thrown right next to Greninja, and a dumbfounded stare at Crazy, unwilling to resist his prowess.

"Said to let Weavel handle this meatsac, "The knight sneered, trying desperately to control her trembling blade.

"Given away prizes now? Could've at least had the courtesy to wrap up the gift, "Crazy's finger rushed out for the shaking shinobi. Chains born from void particles gathering in emass encircled the man, trapping his arms in black, unmoving steel. It was inevitable that he would twist and turn to undo the binds, alas, the shinobi only succeeded in dragging himself to the ground. "Ya know what, i'm feelin' a bit generous myself. You deserve a prize from yours truly."

A plethora of darkness and light tendrils soared over to Greninja, gathering into two seperate, small clouds of energy. Solidifying, crystals were born: one encased in materials that rested in the abyss itself, and the other which gave off a shine that rivaled the sun for a sole moment. Both levitated down upon Greninja's back, yet he didn't feel the hopeless chill of darkness, nor the scorching of the light. Liquid, unlike that which bred the metalloids, protruded from cracks within the landscape. Seconds passed, and both the shinobi and pokemon were sitting upon an ever growing puddle of liquid, showing a surface design that stunned Greninja with its familiarity.

"Tell Gardevoir I said hi….and that i'm ALWAYS…...WATCHING, "Crazy sneered, chuckling at the incomprehensible noises flowing from Greninja's mouth. "AAAAAAAANNNNNNNND…...SCENE!"

As if the very ground beneath Greninja had dissipated within an instant, the two swiftly sunk through the liquid. The watery depths of what the realm had to offer didn't haunt them, instead a blinding light of a rising sun accompanied by a light cool breeze greeted their arrival. They both struck hardened wood, nearly sliding off its edge. Greninja looked out to the passing hills and trees sheltering sleeping fauna; it were the planet he was sent to originally. Not just the planet, but even the very train he rode broke his fall. Automatically, Greninja tried to reposition himself. As he struggled a bit to keep his balance while standing, having suffered from the side effects of being completely immobile, he let out a breath of relief knowing the curse had lifted. A single step forward brought about a sharp sting to his foot. Greninja recoiled, and looked down upon one of Crazy's gifts, the bright crystal. Soon as the pokemon lifted up the gift, feeling its warm embrace spread throughout his hand, the corrupted crystal's whereabouts became a concern.

"Back so soon, frog, "A mechanical voice grabbed Greninja's attention. Weavel, along with the others, were all bunched together on the opposite end of the cart. Dedede and Escargoon were caring for the boy that Greninja fought before. Weavel proceeded to head toward Greninja. "I'm sure you have enough questions for two lifetimes, but i'm not in the mood to talk about….HIM! Though I imagine it has…..."

A soundous noise of cracked ice captured Weavel, and unleashed a spine tingling chill that put the paleness back into the king and his servent. What Greninja saw when the cyborg moved his one foot had his heart skip a beat, the remaining gift. Of course, Weavel were compelled to pick it up. It were unharmed by Weavel's weight, continuing to emit a daunting aura that befitted the pirate's heart.

"Lookin' like da toad brought over some goods, "Dedede commented, "Peeking over Weavel's side, granting the crystal a narrow glare. "Hmph, that good for nothin' giving folks crystals, like we stupid or somethin'! A childish prank for da toad all that is! Toss that trash overboard, will ya!"

"Hmmmm, nothing seems unusual about this one, and it's little different than the crystals we use. Energy circulation is normal, but…..this one…...ahhhh, I see."

"What ya thinkin' now?"

"Greninja found us a real gem alright. It's not a master variant, which means….."

"It…..it only leads to one world and back! Like da one that crazy goot took from us?"

"Exactly! What we have here is a ticket to a new wo….."

An accidently glance up at the frog gave view to hostile intent. Greninja were already so close with a katana rearing to strike the cyborg. Quick reactions saw to an energy blade flowing from the creature's arm intercept the attack. Upon clashing, Greninja immediately went to take the crystal from Weavel's fingers, but the pirate swiftly threw his hand up high. Weavel had encountered many stares throughout his career, and what Greninja gave were barely worth mention. Weavel knew what caused this, feeling even more resentment toward the hand that caused such resistance.

"Whatcha think ya doin' toad, "Dedede hollered, gripping his mallet with both hands.

"My guess is our little friend doesn't like space pirates too much, "Weavel muttered with a light tone. "What, you want this? Sorry rookie, but i'm a pirate for a reason. Besides, something tells me that you're not ready for what's on the other side."

"Oh give him a break, will ya, "Escargoon interrupted, slithering beside Greninja. "He ain't nothing bad compared to the freakshows he works with daily. A mercenary with some manners and good taste in how he gets the job done is just what employers look for nowadays! He came here with the intent on looking after these people, and he still needs to! What you two do on your own time is not our concern, but pay him enough respect to see this through to the end!"

"I agree! I'm paid to be a guard. Long as you keep that blade of yours directed at the bandits, you won't have to deal with my own. And really, think about it! I would've kill you in your sleep if I was such a big threat. Now since I know more about Varasla, it be good for everybody if I held onto this. I'll even let you keep the crystal you're hiding in that hand. What say you?"

Greninja thought the suggestion were ludacris! Every space pirate he encountered threatened himself, and apparently all of existence. Nothing good would come from this deal, but could Greninja really risk his own crystal for just beliefs? Weavel won't just sit idly by as he constantly pesters the cyborg with hostile intent. If Greninja were to be bested, he lose both gifts. With that in mind, Greninja begrudgingly complied. With that in mind, Greninja eased the katana off Weavel. Keeping to his word, Weavel deactivated his blade as well. Weavel nodded to Greninja, even when the pokemon clearly didn't approve of the agreement. Greninja's sharp gaze never left Weavel who walked passed him, gripping the crystal with all his might. Greninja kneeled beside the boy, holding up his head. His pulse was steady, but an intense headache must've been rampaging within him.

It wasn't too hard to believe that the shinobi would act so wild to break his chains with a monstrosity claded in metal marching for him. Weavel grabbed the man's chains with a single hand, having Greninja go wide eyed with the human's entire body being suspended in the air so easily. The shinobi grew pale having his entire view consumed by Weavel's blinding visor.

"I always wondered how you primitives got your hands on master crystals, now it makes complete sense! Making deals with Crazy of all people, tsk tsk tsk, what a guaranteed way to make some enemies! Perhaps I should send you back to your buddies in Valm in a handbasket as a warning!"

"Va…..Valm, "The shinobi whispered, giving the pirate a confused stare.

"Oh, so your group isn't in Valm? Ylisse, Plegia perhaps?!"

"I…...I don't know what you're going on about!"

"Testing my patience already? What a brave man you are!"

"Just tell us what we want, peasant, "Escargoon sneered, moving beside Weavel. He shot a finger at the squirming human. "If it ain't one of those three superpowers, then where you ha….wait…."

The snail squinted his eyes at the shinobi's attire before giving a quick glance over to Greninja. He waved toward Dedede.

"Sire, come here for a sec."

Dedede started walking over, stroking his chin as he got closer. For whatever reason, the king ceased, glaring back at Greninja and the human several times.

"You see it, sire, "The snail asked.

"Ya, somethin' fishy goin' on here! He lookin' like that dere pokemon, "Dedede rushed for the human, holding his mallet near the shinobi's face. "What ya playin' at? Who are ya supposed to be?!"

"I have nothing to say to you!"

"We don't want your kids or gold, you fool, "Weavel commented. "We're just asking for your occupation!"

"Hmph, i'm a ninja…..from a fallen kingdom! Satisfied?!"

The three just looked at each other, and their stressed expressions spoke volumes of their displeasure. Escargoon tapped Weavel's waist.

"We…..Weavel, how about…"

"I know, "Weavel muttered with such an emotionless tone, Greninja's protective impulse almost had him move. Weavel swiftly held the man over the edge. Soon as the human's eyes met the ground moving too quickly to process, desperate hollers flew from his mouth. His feet frantically moved in all directions, hoping to meet ground that were way beyond him.

"DASTARDS! I DID AS YOU ASKED!"

"Yup, he's from medieval times alright, "Said Weavel. "But really…...really, a ninja. A NINJA! What kind of idiots do you take us for? Ninjas don't exist in any of those kingdoms!"

"WAIT…...WAIT, I TRULY AM WHAT I CLAIM, "He let out a yelp as he watched Weavel's grip lighten a little. "I'M TELLING YOU THE TRUTH!"

"AND I'M TELLING YOU THAT NINJAS DON'T FREAKING EXIST IN THAT WORLD! SO YOU'D BETTER COME UP WITH A BETTER LIE, OR YOU KNOW WHAT, I'M JUST ENDING THIS NOW!"

"HOSHIDO!"

Soon as that name hit Weavel, he threw the man back onto the train. The three encircled the man gasping for air. The man looked up to Weavel with sweat rushing down his head. Weavel kneeled over the man. A sharp hiss from the pirate's now active blade froze the shinobi stiff.

"Hoshido, that doesn't exist ei….."

"I DON'T KNOW WHAT WORLD YOU'RE TALKING ABOUT, BUT IT AIN'T IT IF HOSHIDO ISN'T THERE, "The man hollered. Dedede gripped onto Weavel's arm. The king shook his head at Weavel, and he immediately understood the king's intent. The blade deactivated and all eyes rested on the human once more. "Look, that dastard Crazy gave us an opportunity to regain what we lost. So some of my people joined up with a gang of bandits and we all did whatever we were told. In exchange, we got crystals, metalloids, gold, you name it. These crystals led here, and we've been hitting the trains ever since."

"Oh, so now we hate Crazy? At least you came to your senses before meeting us. How about being sane enough to call off these raids!"

"It doesn't matter now, "The shinobi whispered.

"Beg your pardon?"

"I SAID IT DOESN'T MATTER! THEY'RE ALL GOOD AS DEAD! THAT DASTARD IS GOING TO WIPE THE WHOLE LOT OF THEM OUT, AND THAT DAMN FROG IS THE CAUSE OF IT!"

"The cau…..Greninja, "Weavel and his employers gave widened stares to Greninja who couldn't return the gaze, closing his eyes from the world from lingering guilt. Spontaneous, desperate shifts and turns from the binded human caught their attention. The human directed his terrified expression behind himself. "What is it?"

"Soo…..something's behind me!"

It wasn't so obvious before, but a form of hissing was being emitted from behind the shinobi. Taking a peek to his backside revealed a sight that had Weavel jump to his feet. Energy of Varasla was somehow operating within their realm, gathering upon the chains in the form of a piece of white paper. Fleeting energy went up in smoke upon completion, and left the trio petrified. Weavel were the first to reach for it, leaving Dedede and Escargoon to stare at him. The paper came clean off, and held words on the other side.

"Its…..a note…...from Crazy, "Weavel said, holding back his trembling hands from tearing it to shreds."

"WELL, WHAT IT SAY, "Dedede hollered.

"Hmph, well I be damned. The human was telling the truth, "Weavel turned to Dedede. "There isn't going to be a raid attempt."

"Then…...that means, "Soon as the king's eyes fell upon the pokemon, he broke out in a laughing fit. This was the happiest Greninja had seen Dedede. "First day on da job, and ya went and stopped the peasants completely. Ya needed Crazy to do all this, but I ain't gonna knock on ya accomplishment. Glad da big head still got some good eyes. Guess ya ain't needed now, but i'll still pay ya Weavel."

"Forget the payment! I'll take this crystal and say we're square."

"If ya say so, but we still got business to discuss!"

"You mean this…...Hoshido?"

"Ya know I can't leave that hangin'. Tim been dealin' with fools from that Hoshido place. Nothin' but trouble if ya ask me."

"Hmmm, well Hoshido must be during humanities early development. I don't know much about ninjas, so I can't tell you much else."

"Then leave this fool to me, "Dedede lifted the man by the chains with a single hand. "Can't trust your folk with keepin' humans alive anyway, so i'll lock him up nice and tight until I got a big bowl of info. And if ya nice, i'll make it comfortable for ya."

"Excuse me, "Escargoon intervened. "There might be a good chance one of those crystals lead there."

"I was just thinking that, "Weavel commented, glaring at Greninja. "Question is, which one is the right one? There are two, and I doubt they lead to the same place."

"Only one way to find out."

"Hmmm, not sure about this. You know what happens to master crystals in unconnected worlds, and these will have to recharge. We'll be stuck there for some time, that is if we even end up in Hoshido."

"Then have your pirates investigate that crystal, the Chasers will look into whatever that frog has, and we'll learn what we can from this peasant. Sound good?"

"Wise. I'll contact you later and discuss our findings.

"GRENINJA, "A soundous voice didn't strike their ears, but echoed throughout their heads. They all had the same name in mind, and their thoughts were confirmed when a figure leapt from the grassy fields onto their cart. It were Lucario, and as always, gave a hostile glare at Greninja. "Having to run after a train to get you, unbelievable! What were you doing? Gardevoir was trying to form a connection with you and couldn't even sense your presence! Were you purposely closing yourself off from her?!"

"Now why would I do that, "Greninja sneered.

"You tell me, "Lucario glanced over to the trio on the other side, stopping dead on Weavel who were now acting just as cautious. "Well now, it would do me well to get a nice little bonus!"

"On that, we're agreed, "Weavel growls vented out in echoes, hovering his hand over a pistol. "You tend to your business, and i'll attend to my own. As Gardevoir would say…...do it for the people!"

"How fortunate that she's not here, "Lucario never lifted his gaze from the pirate, and deep seeded hatred vented out in the form of a dense, dark blue aura. No doubt a Chaser would recognize a mercenary like Weavel, and their fight would no doubt be fierce. Much as Greninja wanted to see Weavel defeat, Gardevoir's concern held greater priority.

"I'm pretty sure if she wanted to check on me, she would've came herself. Something else is going on, so just spill it out."

With a heavy exhale, he begrudgingly faced the frog, "Apparently, something big enough to where she's calling all of us, even she was in a hurry. We're meeting up in Ylisse she said."