Chia: …seriously? Barbie Swan Lake? You hate Barbie.
Yes but it was a request by a fan (who wanted to remain anonymous) who's been very loyal. And why not? I already did the Nutcracker which held a little of the Barbie version characteristics. Plus it gives me opportunity to experiment with other couples.
Chia: Sven and Wendy?
Nope. Tempted but alas, not that. Kate and Keith I'll write about again very soon. Same with Solana and Lunick, who I really want to attempt to write. This time? I'm using Kellyn and hitachiitwinsfan989's OC, Seren. Basically, it's a little bit of a thank you for being such a wonderful coauthor.
Chia: Sky does not own any of the Pokemon or crossover material.
Read, review and enjoy!
P.S. I may have changed a few aspects of the OC Seren so to her beloved owner, please don't get mad!
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In the land of Almia, there was a peaceful place known as Vientown. It was here where Seren Refern resided with her aunt. She only graduated from ranger school a week ago. There was a rest period before she'd officially get her assignment and become an actual ranger. Just a few more days. Seren was way too excited to wait. She'd practice her capture spins, ranger posing and exercised daily. Though, on the plus side, Seren would get to spend time with her aunt Sierra and older cousin, Vientown Ranger Luana.
"Practicing your spins again?"
"EEEP!"
Seren froze in place as a chuckle came from the doorway of the living room. Aunt Sierra was there watching her.
"You always were a magnificent dancer." Sierra said.
"I'm going to be a ranger, auntie." Seren corrected. "I was making sure I can capture a pokemon smoothly and without much trouble."
"No need to be embarrassed about it! Luana was exactly like you when she started out!" Sierra told her. "Dancing around and over-excited. But so worried about what was to come. One year later and look at her now."
"My ditzy kitchen-destroying cousin is a pretty awesome ranger." Seren admitted, tucking a strand of raven hair behind her ear.
"And she's got a decent boyfriend. Even if his afros a bit…unusual." Sierra sweatdropped.
"They're not dating. Luana insists they're just friends." Seren said.
Sierra smirked. "For now."
"Are you guys talking about me behind my back?"
In came Luana. Seren envied how awesome she looked in her uniform. But the two girls looked almost like identical twins. So if Luana looked epic in a ranger uniform, then Seren would be amazing as well.
"Just mentioning to Seren about your boyfriend." Sierra said.
"HE IS A BOY AND HE IS MY FRIEND! BUT NOT A BOYFRIEND!" Luana flailed her arms in a frenzy, freaking out as her cheeks turned red.
"Calm down!" Seren laughed. "You panic way too much!"
"I have a reason too!" Luana huffed. "My mom drives me nuts!"
"But you love me." Sierra reminded.
Luana sighed. "…yeah. I love my mom. And my crazy little cousin."
"Watch who you're calling crazy. I'll kick your butt at rangering." Seren challenged.
"That'll be the day." Luana stuck out her tongue.
The three girls laughed. Seren smiled, feeling at home. Nothing like being with her family.
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"WOO! Nice shot!"
"Told ya I could capture 'em!"
Meanwhile, across the region, two rangers were practicing captures outside of the Union. There was a tall cowboy with tan skin and dark blue hair; an experienced top ranger. Then was a regular ranger who was stationed at the Union. He had coffee-brown hair that could resemble a buizel style and fierce brown eyes that were always determined.
"Have you really captured 10,000 pokemon, Sven?" The brown haired boy questioned.
"And counting." Sven smirked. "Hey there's two aipom over there. You got this, Kellyn?"
"Naturally." Kellyn nodded, accepting the challenge.
Whipped out his styler and began the capture. A few loops here, several more there. Only took a minute for both aipoms to be captured and befriended. Nothing to it.
"Easy." Kellyn said. "Now what about that floatzel?"
"All the way over at the river? Impossible for a non-top ranger!" Sven snickered.
"Impossible? My favorite word." Kellyn chuckled.
Same procedure as before. Kellyn brought out the styler and proceeded on. It was quite a ways away from the Union to the river. Distance was a little challenging for rangers who didn't have years of experience. But Kellyn was confident. And that confidence always pulled through. This time? It did once again.
"Whoa! Dude that was great!" Sven applauded.
"Thank you! Thank you very much!" Kellyn bowed, proud of himself. "I'll be here all week!"
"Might make top ranger someday if you keep up the good work." Sven said.
"Won't be as good as us, though."
Out of the Union came Wendy, the green haired top ranger and Sven's partner. Behind her was Rhythmi, a Union operator and old classmate of Kellyn.
"Did you guys hear about the Ranger Festival? So many rangers from regions are coming to celebrate the anniversary of the Union's founding! It's going to be such a huge event!" Rhythmi excitedly told the group.
"Big whoop." Kellyn rolled his eyes.
Rhythmi glared at him, placing her hands on her hips. "Come on, Kell! Take a break and relax!"
"Hey I prefer mission and adventures over dancing at some stupid ball." Kellyn said, leaning against a tree.
"If not for the dancing, then at least for the women. A lot of cute babes are coming." Sven reminded.
"Pass." Kellyn refused.
"What? Not interested in girls?" Wendy asked.
"Nah it's just…" Kellyn paused. "None of the girls I meet are interesting. They're not my type."
"Then who is?" Rhythmi questioned.
"Well…" Kellyn hesitated. "A smart girl. Someone who is smart, brave, really sweet and never gives up. One who can make my life exciting. And I like girls with cute smiles."
"You make it sound like you already have someone in mind." Sven noticed, suspicious.
"Kinda." Kellyn sheepishly scratched the back of his neck.
"TELL US!" Rhythmi demanded. "You have to! Tell us! Tell us! TELL US!"
"Ok, ok, ok!" Kellyn sweatdropped. "Back in Kanto, when I was little, I used to live next door to a cute girl. We were great friends and always found ways to have fun. But a year before I left for ranger school, my family had to move to Johto. The two of us promised to follow our dreams; to become rangers. Then we'd meet again one day. Haven't seen her since."
"Oh that's so sad!" Rhythmi sniffled. "A lost love!"
"You'd know plenty about that." Kellyn mumbled.
"Excuse me?" Rhythmi raised an eyebrow.
"You and Issac separated after ranger school. And though he was supposed to transfer to the Union, he went missing after that huge storm." Kellyn reminded.
"SHUT UP!" Rhythmi snapped, sore about the subject. "I-I wasn't in love with him anyways! We were friends! Can't I be concerned for a friend?"
"You two said you'd meet up again so you will. No doubt about it." Wendy assured.
"And even if so, I'm sure there are plenty of girls like her at the gala." Sven added.
"Yeah." Kellyn thought. "But none like her."
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Seren strolled through Vientown, humming the Oracion song. Catchy tune really. And it fit the day so perfectly. Sun was shining, pokemon were happy and all was peaceful. Seren had already played with a few of the starly and bidoof. She was having fun! And soon, she'd be playing with all sorts of pokemon as a ranger!
"Kya! Help!"
"Huh?"
The girl stopped. She saw a pokemon fly over, panicking. Seren gasped. A latias! And a beautiful one at that! The latias glanced at Seren, who was staring at the marvelous creature in awe.
"There it is!"
Latias cried out, fearful, as it flew away. There were three groups of people chasing right after it. Rangers, poachers and villagers. Each seemed to have some specific goal. The poachers were obviously capturing it for money while rangers were protecting the pokemon. Villagers were probably wanting to get a good look at a legendary pokemon. It was utter chaos.
Seren went after the group, hoping she could help in some way. She'd ask Luana what happened if the cousin wasn't busy fending off poachers. Rangers had managed to stop a good number of those poachers and send home most of the villagers. But Seren saw two or three sneak off.
"Gotcha!"
A rope was thrown around latias' neck. Poor pokemon struggled to wriggle free. Seren ran straight over to the poacher who held the rope.
"Stop! You can't do this!" Seren yelled.
"Back away, girly!" The poacher snarled, waving her away. "This here's my pokemon!"
Luckily, the poacher was too distracted to properly reign the latias. Latias threw her head and tugged the rope away from the poacher (who was slammed against a wall, unconscious). Though it was still around her neck. The latias flew off to the edge of Vien forest. The rope snagged against branches which took massive struggle to break free from.
"I have to help her." Seren thought, worried. "That rope might tangle her again. Or worse, choke her to death."
Seren gave chase to latias. Followed her straight into Vien Forest. Though latias seemed to be going in a different direction than most people would when traveling. Latias dove into the darker, more heavily forested areas. Seren hopped rocks across a river, tracking the pokemon down. They reached a waterfall which had to be close to the heart of the forest.
Latias looked both directions. Her eyes glowed white for a split second. The thick waterfall parted, splitting in half. Instead of a solid rock wall, there was an entry way into a tunnel. Latias flew inside. And as the waterfall closed, Seren managed to slip her way in.
"Oh my gosh…" Seren whispered.
After a short walk through the cave-tunnel, she reached the outside. It was gorgeous! She was taken to a hidden spot that was in the mountains! The Hia Valley cold winds couldn't reach this wonderland! There was a vast lake, with scenic waterfalls. Trees unlike any seen before. Flowers that burst into a colorful bloom. Colors that were very calming to the eyes. Such a relaxing place.
"Kyaaaaa! Noooo!"
That voice! Seren rushed to the trees, towards the voice. Took a bit of running to get there but latias was found again. Her rope snagged in a large thorn bush. The pokemon fussed and wriggled but found herself trapped in the branches. Poor girl was in so much pain.
"Stop moving you're making it worse!" Seren called out, coming over.
"Easy for you to say!" Latias whined. "You're not getting strangled!"
Telepathy? Oh right. Legendary pokemon. Duh.
"Can you use your psychic powers to break free?" Seren suggested.
"I can't use them when I get freaked out like this! Help me!" Latias cried.
That would explain why she didn't turn invisible, transform into other pokemon or do anything when she was chased.
"Stay calm! I'll find something to cut you loose!" Seren told her.
"Hurry! This hurts!" Latias coughed, choking on the rope.
Seren looked around. She checked past trees to find a rock or something sharp. There was a small rock cliff just a few feet away. And something shiny sticking out from it. Curious, Seren wandered over. However, she didn't hear or see a group of pokemon standing close by.
"A-another human! Here!"
"What she doing in this place?"
"Never mind that! Look! She found the crystal!"
An amythest was lodged tightly in the wall of rock. Seren found its sharp edges would be good enough for the rope to be cut. Perfect! Now to pry it out of there.
"Someone stop her! She can't…!"
"No. Watch."
Seren's hand grasped the amythest. As easy as one two three, the gem slipped out. The pokemon gasped in wonder. Seren was happy with herself for finding a nice jewel. Granted she'd return it but for now, to help that latias. Latias struggled but stopped, eyes wide at the sight of the gem.
"Where. Did. You. Get that?" The pokemon whispered.
"Um…the big rock cliff over there?" Seren sweatdropped.
"Y-you just took it out? That easily?" Latias gasped.
"I-I didn't mean to steal it! I'm only borrowing it to help you!" Seren stammered.
The dark haired girl proceeded to cut the ropes that bound Latias. Within a second or two, latias was free once again.
"Big brother! Did you see that? Huh?" Latias asked to a pokemon who flew over.
A latios! Wow was he striking! Just like the storybooks said!
"This girl right here used the Soul Drop! She saved me!" Latias told him.
"Sorry! I was going to put it back! I swear!" Seren frantically apologized.
Latios smiled. "Don't be sorry. I'm happy you helped out my sister. By the way, latias, how many times have I told you not to leave the Magic Springs?"
"I was trying to help!" Latias protested. "And look! I brought the girl! The one we've been waiting for! See?"
"What? You've been waiting for me?" Seren asked, lost on the subject.
"Yes, miss…hmmm. What is your name?" Latios asked.
"Seren." Seren answered.
"Seren, the Soul Drop in your hands belongs to you now." Latios said. "You see, it's a sign that you will save us."
"I-I think you got me mixed up with someone else." Seren sweatdropped.
"Many years back, I lived within this forest with latias and another legend, Darkrai. We were raised by a pokemon known as Celebi. When we came of age, Celebi would choose the protector and leader of the Magic Springs. And that was me." Latios explained. "Darkrai was furious. He stormed out of here and took refuse in Chroma Valley."
"Everything was peaceful for a long time after. But then he came back. And he has a 'daughter' whose half human, half Zorua. Her name's Lavana and she's icky. Super mean!" Latias stuck out her tongue, disgusted.
"Darkrai and Lavana have strong dark powers now. They took over the forest little by little." Latios went on. "I tried forcing him to leave but he refused, overwhelming me with his strength. Worse, he sometimes kidnap humans who wandered into Vien Forest and bring them here. He trapped them under a curse, making them pokemon. Their misery only made Darkrai happier. Every prisoner taken makes the powers grow stronger."
"Um…I hear what you're saying but I still don't quite understand what this crystal and I have to do with anything." Seren spoke up.
"The Soul Drop is like a lesser part of a Soul Dew. It was foretold that the girl who pries the Soul Drop from the rock will overcome Darkrai and save Vien Forest. And to a lesser extent, the world." Latios finished.
Three pokemon popped from the bushes, coming over. There was an eevee, a quilava and a rattata. Other pokemon seemed to be hiding away, watching with anticipation. No one noticed a pair of murkrow watching them from the trees with dark expressions. Or that the murkrow soon took off somewhere.
"Finally! Someone's here to put an end to this!" The quilava cried out. "Never thought it'd be you of all people, Seren, but this blasted curse is finally over!"
"Not so fast!" Eevee interrupted. "Darkrai hasn't been defeated yet!"
"You guys sound familiar…" Seren shook her head. "But really, wait a second. I've never defeated anyone in my life! I'm not even an official ranger yet! As much as I want to help, I don't even know where to begin!"
"Oh you gotta be kidding me!" The quilava face-palmed.
"We can't exactly force her to combat a darkrai, you know." The rattata said. "Especially one so powerful. It's big news to take in."
"Can I at least think about this?" Seren asked.
"Why not?" Latios shrugged. "Latias? Why don't you guide Seren around the forest?"
"Yes big brother!" Latias chirped.
Latias started eagerly flying. Seren complied, following the pokemon. The pokemon watched them leave, feeling nervous but also hopeful. Maybe there was a chance their curse would finally be lifted. Seren walked to see the striking view of the Magic Springs. As nerve wrecking as the news was, it was calming to see the waterfalls or walk beside the ancient trees. It was already evening. Wow did time fly by fast.
"If only my powers didn't konk out when I get nervous. Then I'd show Darkrai what for!" Latias huffed. "Use my mist ball to knock him away to the next region! Hiyah! Or maybe dragon pulse would do the trick!"
Seren giggled. "I was brave back in Ranger School. But I'm not sure if I'm brave enough to stand up against a darkrai."
"You rangers are always super brave. Can't understand why you're not brave yourself." Latias said.
"I'm not an official one yet. Once the break's over and I'm registered, then I can be an actual ranger." Seren told her.
"So what? You'd only come help us if you were a ranger? I thought real rangers would help us if they had stylers or not. They wouldn't hesitate to do what's right." Latias responded.
"True…" Seren whispered.
Suddenly, several feet away, a dark pool appeared from the ground. Two bodies were floating up from the darkness. One was a darkrai while the other was a human with weird qualities. An older, teenage girl with pink hair and a pink & black outfit. Instead of hands, she had claws. Her teeth were fangs. And there were red markings all over.
"Darkrai and Lavana!" Latias squeaked, shivering.
"A little bird told me that a human girl got the Soul Drop." Darkrai said. "Couldn't possibly be this weak little girl."
Lavana cackled a high pitched laugh. Ugh. Annoying.
"Say what you want! Seren and I will make sure you never bother anyone again! Your days are numbered!" Latias announced.
"Latias!" Seren hissed.
"And here I thought latias' were…oh how you say…timid." Darkrai growled. "Lavana, dear? How's about a new feather coat?"
"I'd love one daddy!" Lavana coo'ed.
"Very well." Darkrai grinned evilly.
Winds suddenly picked up. Dark purple and red lightning bolts fused with darkness were zapping all over the place. The lightning was absorbed into a dark void that Darkrai was creating the palms of its hands. As soon as enough energy was gathered, the dark void sphere was launched. In mere milliseconds, it struck right at Seren. Seren hovered in mid-air as the dark void surrounded her completely. The darkness tore at her body. It was shaping her like play-doh, changing her form with harsh stinging and aching. She could feel herself shrinking and parts of her body disappear.
The dark void vanished. As did the body of a teenage girl. In its place was a bird pokemon, Swana.
"No!" Seren's voice cracked, horrified at the transformation.
"Seren!" Latias' trembled.
Darkrai laughed. "Look at the hero now. How pathetic."
"Hey lay off!" Latias used a tackle attack to knock Darkrai down. "Seren! RUN! Before he gets you!"
Latias was doing her best to hold the dark pokemon off. Seren was still shocked and distraught at what happened. But somehow, her bird instincts let her use those wings. The swana managed to fly over the waters of the lake.
"Seren! Over here!"
Seren followed the source of the voice. She glided into the water, swimming close to the mainland. It was much easier to swim and fly than walk on land. But then again, it would be for a bird type pokemon. How humiliating. Seren was nearly in tears when Latios and the other pokemon rushed over to the edge of the water.
"I came as quickly as I could." Latios said, using his psychic powers to place a tiara on Seren's bird head. "This crown and the Soul Drop will protect you from anymore of Darkrai's evil magic."
"Would've been useful a minute ago…" Seren sniffled.
"How right she is."
Darkrai and Lavana appeared yet again. Latias must've been beaten. Seren was shaking all over at the site of those two.
"Relax, Seren. He can do you no harm so long as you wear the Soul Drop." Latios reassured.
"Why not just save yourself the trouble and hand that over, Latios?" Darkrai demanded. "These springs were always meant to be mine."
"And see you destroy the rest of my home? Forget it." Latios growled threateningly.
"Then sit back and watch your pretty little home get demolished by me. That girl's life is going to be cut drastically short." Darkrai remarked.
Darkrai tried to launch another dark void at Seren again. However, this one failed. A protective shield of light was thrown up against the darkness and turned into sparkles of light. Seren was left without a scratch.
"But daddy! I want my feather coat! Why am I not getting one? You said I would!" Lavana wailed.
The pokemon of darkness sighed. He knew he was beat for the time being. With that, he and Lavana crawled back into the dark pool and disappeared once again. That left the pokemon alone.
"Seren!" Latias flew back over.
Seren climbed out of the water, stumbling over her webbed feet. She was really upset still. Not exactly fun being turned into a Swana.
"What am I going to do?" Seren moaned. "C-can you turn me back?"
Latios shook his head, mournfully. "I cannot. And a few of the kidnapped Darkrai victims managed to escape his palace and from becoming servants."
"Not an easy task either." Rattata wearily said.
"My powers weren't strong enough to break the curse completely. But I can weaken it." Latios explained. "From sunset to sunrise, the captured may become human again."
"At least try with me! Please! I have to become human again! I can't be a Swana for the rest of my life!" Seren desperately pleaded.
Latios hesitated. The sun was starting to set. As good a time as any to try breaking the curse. Latios summoned his energy and created a bluish white glow around Seren. The sun disappeared over the horizon.
Magic swirled around Seren, changing her body once more. It was filled with warmth this time. She felt herself shape back into the form of a human. At the same time, the pokemon were transforming too. There were two boys and one girl. One boy had a blond mushroom haircut while the other had red, flame styled hair. The girl had light brown hair in two spiky pigtails.
"Kate! Keith!" Seren exclaimed.
"About time you recognized us." Kate giggled.
"You know them already?" Latias asked.
"We were friends and classmates at ranger school! But they disappeared right after the graduation ceremony!" Seren told her.
"That stupid darkrai brought us here." Keith clenched his jaw. "And then he changed us into pokemon! Kate and I barely escaped his palace alive!"
"And you are?" Seren turned to the blonde.
"Issac." Issac replied. "Nice to meet you. I was in the class a year before you at ranger school. Worked as a mechanic for a little while. The Union transferred me to their HQ to be a researcher but during a storm, I was stolen away to this place."
Seren faced latios again, smiling. "Thank you for this! I'm human again!"
"You do realize it's temporary. Until dawn." Latios reminded.
"Then I'm a Swana again. Damn it…" Seren frowned. "Know what? I can't go home like this. And I am not letting my friends suffer! I've got to find a way to break this curse!"
"That's the spirit!" Latias cheered.
Keith whoop'ed. "And that's the Seren we know! Never gonna give you up, never gonna…"
"Keith!" Kate hit his head. "We agreed not to sing Rick Asley stuff!"
"Tell me the details, latios." Seren requested.
"In the Book of Vien, there should be something written about this curse. And that'll help us. It's a book only opened by the bearer of the Soul Drop." Latios looked at the pokemon. "Latias? Will you guide Seren there?"
"Not a problem!" Latias sang.
"The book is guarded by a mankey. Talk to him and use this to open the vault to get the book." Latios instructed, giving Seren a waterstone.
"Thank you." Seren bowed. "Shall we head off, latias?"
"Off we go!"
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Around the same time, Kellyn was reading some manga. Was a little bored. Everyone was either out or busy planning the Ranger Festival. And he didn't have a ranger partner to talk to.
Knock! Knock!
…huh. Weird coincidence.
"Door's open!" Kellyn called.
Rhythmi came inside. She sat down on the spare bed as Kellyn put the manga aside.
"Hey. You've been in here awhile." Rhythmi said.
"I'm bored. Nothing to do this late at night and there's no way I can sleep." Kellyn replied. "What's new with you?"
"I…I needed someone to talk to." Rhythmi sighed.
"Something wrong?" Kellyn asked.
"It's what you said this afternoon. About Issac…."Rhythmi's voice trailed off.
"Rhyth, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to hurt your feelings." Kelly apologized softly.
"No but I still miss him. After all this time." Rhythmi looked at the floor with a sad expression. "I…I hope he's ok."
"I'm sure he's fine. And people are looking for him. We'll find Issac." Kellyn assured.
"Ok." Rhythmi wiped away the tears that were about to spill over. "A-and maybe I'll help you find that friend of yours. The girl you mentioned earlier."
"Ah. Her." Kellyn smiled a little at the memory of her.
"Maybe once all the festival chaos is over, I'll have free time to access the ranger database. Could be that she's become a ranger or, at the very least, is in school." Rhythmi suggested.
"Thanks Rhythmi. It means a lot to me for you to do that." Kellyn said.
The two friends stared out the window at the late night. On their minds were the friends that they knew and were close to.
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Luana paced the floors of the house, anxiously waiting. Her nerves were shot. She couldn't calm down at all. The hours were only getting later and there was still no sign of…
"Luana? Is Seren back?"
Sierra burst through the front door, tired and frazzled.
"No. And I'm really worried." Luana was getting choked up.
"Where is she?" Sierra rubbed her temples. "I better check around again."
"I'll go with you." Luana offered, walking alongside her mother.
"Are you sure? You have patrolling tomorrow. And your ranger curfew is soon." Sierra said.
"I think they'll understand if I'm helping look for my family." Luana assured. "Darn it Seren, where are you?"
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"Sooo…what's this mankey like?"
Seren and Latias had gone pretty far into the Magic Springs woods. It was dark but Seren didn't mind too much. Dark wasn't as scary compared to the darkness that Darkrai produced. Made her shudder.
"Ugh. They're ugly, smelly, got this super duper huge temper, easy to get angry and so energetic…yech." Latias gagged. "Totally not cute like I am."
Seren sweatdropped. "I suppose most pokemon aren't."
"Awww! You're so nice!" Latias giggled. "Oh? Here we are!"
There was an oak tree that was tall and grand. It's trunk was spread wide. And on the trunk was an ancient door of sorts. It was mystifying and a little unusual.
"You have the waterstone right?" Latias asked.
Seren nodded. She pulled it from her pocket and held it up high. The waterstone glistened in the moonlight and made a pretty wind chime sound. As the sound reached the tree, the doors rumbled and slowly opened. Inside was a fancy but cozy living room. Antique furniture with a roaring fireplace. Books were stacked in dozens of piles and at high heights. Almost as high as the ceiling, which seemed endless. How could a mankey live in a place like this?
"Who's there?" A gruff voice demanded, making Seren jump.
"Oh hey there. I'm latias and this is my friend, Seren." Latias introduced.
"No idea who you are. And you don't wanna know me." The voice snapped.
"No fooling." Latias muttered under her breath.
"Please. We need the Book of Vien." Seren spoke up, holding out the waterstone. "She gave us this."
Silence. Then stomping. Seren waited as the stomps grew closer and closer. Soon enough, she was looking down at a mankey. The mankey took the waterstone from Seren's hands, studying it intensely. He sniffed it, stared at it and tapped the surface. Soon enough, a smile was on his face.
"Aha! This is the waterstone made by latios! Welcome honored guests!" Mankey happily said.
The mankey ran off, scurrying through books in a crazed search. The search was for a stool that he gave to Seren for her to sit down.
"You're…um…nice?" Seren said, confused by the sudden personality switch.
"Oh I just act mean to keep out the troublesome pests. Gotta make sure my books stay safe, you know." Mankey responded. "Can I get you anything?"
"The Book of Vien, please." Seren answered.
"Wait is that…?" Mankey gasped, staring at Seren's tiara.
"It is." Latias grinned.
"Well why didn't you tell me earlier? Of course you get to see the book!" Mankey rushed about. "Let me see if I can find you that book!"
"And we can help you." Seren offered.
"Righty then! Look for a book that's as red as latios with a gem as blue as latios! It's got silver vines for décor and its medium sized. Alright crew! Let's get looking!"
For the sake of writing and readers sanity, let us flash forward in time.
No luck so far. Seren was getting sleepier and sleepier as she continued the search. She could find similar books but none that were the book. Latias did her best but even psychic powers couldn't locate literature. And mankey drove himself nuts trying to find the book needed. Thankfully no temper or explosion of rage. Yet.
"Gah! I can't find it!" Mankey groaned.
"We will! It hasn't been that long a search!" Seren assured.
"Not that long? We've looked all night!" Latias reminded.
"All night?" Seren gulped.
The sun was starting to rise over the mountains. Seren looked at a nearby mirror to see a swirl of sparkling magic surround her. Her body shrank and transformed back into a Swana once again. Seren had become a pokemon, much to her disappointment.
"Which shelf next, mankey?" Seren asked, trying to hold back the tears. "We've got to find that book. Even if it takes us all day."
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Over in the darker part of the Magic Springs, there was a gigantic palace. A menacing one that would make anyone feel scared. Within a tall tower was an elegant room where Lavana rested on a couch, going through a treasure trove of jewelry.
"Boring. Lame. So last year." She sighed, picking through the collection. "Dull. Too gray. EW! I have nothing to wear! And the stress of this problem is making my make up run! WAAAAHHHH! DADDY!"
Darkrai was pacing the floors, deep in thought. He glanced at his daughter before focusing on his thoughts once more.
"I know that look." Lavana smirked. "You're up to something, aren't you daddy dearest?"
"I'll get that Soul Drop. Even if I have to rip it off that stupid girl's head." Darkrai grumbled.
"A crown? Oooh, I don't have one of those." Lavana said. "I want one, daddy! Get one to me now!"
"Soon enough, my little starly." Darkrai said.
"I hate waiting!" Lavana pouted. "Why don't you just destroy that girl, daddy? Any ol' human can do that."
Darkrai stopped. Eyes went wide as an idea formed.
"That's it! That Soul Drop can protect her from me but it can't protect her from another human!" Darkrai said. "It's brilliant!"
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Kellyn strolled through the Vien forest. Questing was done and no missions were coming up. It was a slow day for rangers. Late afternoon though it felt like the day was longer. What did it take to have a little action around here? Even a rare pokemon to capture would be some fun.
Whoooosh!
…a strange shadow pokemon? That counted as rare. Kellyn was curious, starting to follow right after it. The shadow led Kellyn through the trees, past the river and deep to the heart of the forest. It stopped at the waterfall, where it parted the waters to reveal a tunnel. Kellyn was amazed at this discovery. How awesome was this?
As the shadow ducked inside, Kellyn chased after it. He carefully slipped through the waterfall as it closed behind him. Quick run through the tunnel and Kellyn was inside a new place.
"Wow…" Kellyn whispered, gazing on the Magic Springs.
There was the shadow again. Heading north. Kellyn charged straight after it, ready for capture.
Right that moment, Seren the Swana was fast asleep in one of the lakes. Kate, Keith and Issac were keeping watch from nearby. Sleepy Latias was with them.
"We looked all night and all day…" Latias yawned. "But nothing, nada, zip, zero."
"Shush! I hear something!" Kate whispered.
WHOOOOOSH!
A blast of wind woke up the startled Seren. There was a menacing laugh in the air. Pokemon looked all about to see where it was coming from. But they all knew who it was; Darkrai.
"RUN SEREN!" Latias shouted.
Seren snapped to attention. She stretched her wings and took off just before the shadow closed in on her. So an aerial chase began. Seren versus the shadow that was darkrai. The swana tried her best to maneuver darkrai but it wasn't easy. Even though she was built to fly, it was hard to adjust to being a bird. Seren avoided incoming slash attacks or dark razor winds.
Down on the ground, Kellyn reached the lake where the two pokemon were battling. He was after the shadow thing originally but caught sight of the magnificent swana.
"What a capture!" Kellyn said in awe.
Swana were very rare outside of Unova. Kellyn would be the only Almia ranger to have such a pokemon in his records. He readied the styler and kept his aim on the swana. His eyes followed the bird pokemon where it flew. Darkrai hovered close by the ranger.
"Come on, take the shot. Just capture her already." Darkrai urged.
Capturing a pokemon of the Magic Springs worked differently. A pokemon of that kind would be overwhelmed by the styler power. Odds are, the pokemon would be killed. And that was what Darkrai wanted.
"So pretty…" Kellyn whispered, gazing at the creature.
His arm shook as it still stayed focused on the swana. He could capture it if he wanted to. But….but….
"What are you waiting for? Damn it! SHOOT! SHOOT HER!" Darkrai insisted.
Kellyn lowered his arm and put the styler away. He watched the pokemon fly around. No way he could capture a lovely creature such as that. Even if it was befriending. A bird like that deserved to be free.
The sun was setting. Seren saw this and flew down to the ground. Magic surrounded her and shifted the body back into its human form. Her feet gracefully landed on the ground. She was back to herself again, much to her relief.
Kellyn stared at the girl, mouth open and in total shock. Couldn't believe his eyes. He just saw a swana transform into a strikingly gorgeous young girl with shoulder-length black hair and crystal blue eyes. A girl who Kellyn could recognize immediately. He quickly ran over to her.
"Seren?"
Seren turned to the voice, surprised. Standing before her was a ranger. A brown haired boy with soft brown eyes Seren knew from anywhere.
"K-Kellyn? Is that you?" Seren gasped.
Kellyn looked Seren over, almost unable to believe what he was seeing. A smile broke out on his face with eyes watery. He couldn't help but pull Seren into a hug. Two childhood friends were reunited at long last.
"Seren! It's really you!" Kellyn said. "Aw man, it's been way too long!"
"Kellyn! Y-you're here!" Seren was getting emotional. "H-how did you find this place?"
"Doesn't matter. I've got so many questions for you!" Kellyn replied, breaking the hug to look at Seren again. "Man…where do I even begin?"
"I guess we should sit down and catch up then." Seren sheepishly suggested. "A lot's happened in these past few days alone."
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Darkrai was muttering swears over the failure that was his plan. He was supposed to meet Lavana but…why not mope a little more over that loss? At another part of the springs, Lavana was looking at her reflection in the water.
"Hmmmm. Maybe I should get some diamonds and pearls…" Lavana pondered out loud. "Yuck! Sinnoh is so last year! But maybe emeralds and sapphires? Yes! So fashionable! And matching ruby makeup to complete the set!"
She had no clue that two people were watching her from the bushes.
"See that?" Kate asked.
"An opportunity?" Keith grinned.
"Right on." Kate high-fived him. "We just need to get some friends to help us out."
"Say no more. Let me handle this prank." Keith assured confidently.
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"And…that's what happened."
Seren walked along the shores of the lake with Kellyn. She told him everything that happened. Graduating ranger school, finding the Magic Springs and the curse she was put under. The boy listened intently to what she said. And he believed her as true friends did. They were always close, even after being apart for so long.
"Blast. Can't believe you're still alive, Seren."
The two friends whipped around to see Darkrai a couple feet away.
"One ranger capture. All it would've taken for a Magic Springs creature such as you to be killed." Darkrai said. "And the Soul Drop would've been mine."
"You wanted me to kill her?!" Kellyn exclaimed, horrified.
"You're a ranger. Ranger captures pokemon, don't they?" Darkrai questioned.
"Stay away from Seren!" Kellyn shouted.
"Tch. Useless human. Perhaps I'll turn you into turtwig." Darkrai decided.
Darkrai gathered a dark void energy attack. Seren leapt in front of Kellyn and blocked the attack using her Soul Drop crown. Dark particles turned to light. The attack did nothing to Kellyn.
Darkrai ceased fire. "For now, the boy is safe. But you can keep him that way if you hand the crown over to me."
Kellyn tried to launch a capture disk on darkrai but the pokemon was quick. With a wave of his warm, the shadows were able to turn the disk into dust.
"You don't know what you're dealing with." Darkrai threatened.
"DAAAAADDDYYYYYYY!"
That screech could only come from Lavana. Darkrai was irritated that he was interrupted. But had no choice than to investigate what his daughter wanted. The pokemon turned into a shadow, slinking off.
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Lavana was screaming her head off. Three stunkys were dancing around the woman, blasting their foul stench juice at her. On the sidelines, Keith and Kate were roaring with laughter. Had to keep their noses plugged but this was totally worth it. To see the ol' hag get drenched in that putrid smell.
"Lavana! I was…" Darkrai came out but was stunned. "Ugh! Dearie! What have you been doing?"
Kate and Keith called the stunkys over, knowing it was a good time to run.
"Worst day EVER!" Lavana bawled. "I wanna go home! NOW DADDY NOW!"
Darkrai coughed. "Y-you just need a bath! Three dozen of them. With vinegar and tomato berry juice."
The two were forced to retreat to the palace so Lavana could get that bath. Kate and Keith were in the forest, still laughing over their success.
"That was awesome! Genius move!" Kate high-fived her partner again.
"Did you see her face? Oh my gosh that was so worth it!" Keith snickered. "I couldn't have done that without you!"
"M-me? You got the stunkys." Kate said.
"Yeah but you got the stunkys to listen. And you were supportive." Keith grinned. "Pranking wouldn't be fun without you."
Kate blushed. "Thanks Keith…"
Keith found himself turning pink as well. He was alone. With Kate. Who seemed to look very cute all of a sudden. No idea why but Keith starting thinking more often that his best friend was really cute; human or pokemon. Unable to control himself any longer, Keith took Kate's arm and pulled her close to his chest.
"Keith! W-what are you…?" Kate squeaked.
Keith shushed her. "I can't do this when we're pokemon. My flames would burn your fur."
"K-keith…" Kate whispered.
"You know you're my best friend, right? And that we'll always be together. No matter what." Keith told her quietly.
"Of course." Kate relaxed, resting her head on his shoulder.
"It's hard to tell what's going to happen, with everything so chaotic right now. But I'll make sure you're safe. I promise." Keith murmured.
For a long time after that, the two were wrapped in a gentle embrace.
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"Seren, you saved my life. Thank you."
Kellyn was walking with Seren again, calming down after the Darkrai ambush.
"As long as I wear the Soul Drop, nothing can hurt me. It protects me so I was never in danger." Seren said.
"With that Darkrai after you, of course you're in danger." Kellyn muttered.
"I'm glad you're ok…" Seren nervously said, hoping Kellyn wasn't mad.
Kellyn seemed to read her mind. "I'm not mad at you, Sere. Just at that pokemon for even thinking of attacking you."
Seren smiled, at ease with that assurance.
"Soooo what is this place exactly?" Kellyn asked.
"I haven't seen much. But I can show you what I do know." Seren offered. "Maybe Swana lake?"
"I'd like that." Kellyn accepted.
Together, the old friends walked into the Magic Springs. They laugh and chat about various things. Kellyn tells stories of his time as a ranger while Seren gets him up to date on tidbits of her life. The duo explore the Magic Springs. Seren shows Kellyn the wonders. Kellyn places a flower in Seren's hair.
After some wandering, they come across a scene of sorts. A mushroom made to be a table with mushroom chairs next to each other.. Wax formed into candles and lit. There was a bowl of fruit. And one could almost swear they heard a soft song drift through the air. All of this beside a lake with weeping willow trees. Seren looked to one of the trees to see her Keith, Kate, Issac and Latias snickering with some other pokemon. Obviously a set up. But oblivious Kellyn suggested they try the picnic so Seren went along with it.
Latias used her psychic abilities to transform Seren's clothes into a gorgeous lavender gown with sparkles. Kellyn was entranced by the magic but more so with Seren herself. He graciously helped her with her seat. They were awfully close to another, which made Seren feel a little embarrassed for some reason.
"Um…" Kellyn tried to clear his throat. "Seren? You…you've really grown up since the last time I saw you."
"Really?" Seren blushed.
"Yeah…" Kellyn was smiling but looking a little flustered too. "I-I think you're beautiful."
"Thank you." Seren responded, touched. "You're quite handsome yourself."
"Heh. I get that a lot from the ladies. Yet…it means more coming from you." Kellyn sweatdropped.
Their hands touched. But instead of pulling away, Kellyn held on. Seren's heart was beating so fast! Blood rushed to her face, making it heat up! Her stomach was in knots!
"Er…d-do you know much about dancing?" Kellyn suddenly asked.
"Not really. You?" Seren replied.
"Well…a friend of mine, she made me learn. Dragged me to lessons. So I know some simple dances. Want me to teach you?" Kellyn offered.
"I'd like that." Seren agreed.
Kellyn rose from his seat, helping Seren up. He led her to the edge of the lake with the scenic view of the waterfall. Each hand grasped the other; shaking a little. Kellyn carefully taught Seren how to ballroom dance. There was a lot of toe-stepping at first or clumsy slips. The boy was smiling, patient as he taught her. Seren twirled around with grace after time. And she found it was fun to dance. Or…maybe it was fun dancing with Kellyn.
Seren had never forgotten her childhood friend or their close connection. She's always wanted to meet him again. And hoped that maybe as rangers, it'd be possible. Now they were back together again. The friendship they shared was closer than before. Actually, was this friendship anymore? Or something else entirely?
They danced for a long time. The starry sky was soon giving way to light as Seren and Kellyn watched the waters, holding the other close.
"L-listen Seren. I um…er…" Kellyn struggled to speak for a second. "There's this Ranger Festival coming up. Not tomorrow night but the night after. And…well…w-would you come with me? Please?"
Seren glanced to the skies. "Aw no. It's nearly dawn."
"Come with me. I'll protect you at the Union." Kellyn told her.
The girl looked over to see her friends. They were awaiting the sunrise with sorrowful expressions. Soon, they'd become pokemon again. As would Seren.
"Kellyn I…I….I can't." Seren sighed. "There's no way I can abandon my friends. I've got to find some way to help."
"Then I'll come back tomorrow night. With other rangers to fight Darkrai." Kellyn told her, determined.
"He'll only do to you what he did to me." Seren warned.
"I'll risk it for you!" Kellyn insisted.
"And the other rangers?" Seren questioned.
Kellyn grit his teeth, knowing he couldn't endanger his friends. Already his friend Issac was under the curse. And two more rangers-to-be were affected too. Who knows who else?
"Go back to the Union. I'd never live with myself if you got hurt." Seren whispered.
"But…" Kellyn was about to object.
"Do you want to help me?" Seren questioned.
"Of course." Kellyn answered.
"Then find my cousin, Vientown Ranger Luana. Tell her that I'm alright and I'll be home as soon as I can. She doesn't have to worry about me." Seren requested. "Please? For me?"
Kellyn clenched his fist. He took a deep breath, knowing he'd do this for Seren. The sun peaked over the horizon. All of the people went back into their pokemon forms. Issac into rattata, Kate into eevee, Keith into quilava….and Seren back into a swana. Kellyn watched his girl turn into a bird pokemon again. It nearly destroyed him.
"You have to go, Kellyn." Seren sadly murmured.
"On one condition. That you come to the Ranger Festival tomorrow." Kellyn said.
"Kellyn, I…" Seren nearly protested.
"Either you come tomorrow or I stay here with you." Kellyn stubbornly folded his arms.
Seren bowed her head. "….I'll come to the festival. I promise."
The swana hopped into the water, shamefully swimming away. Kellyn knew he had to leave. But Seren would fulfill that promise. Until then, he'd be impatiently waiting. The ranger started to leave.
"Oh Issac?" Kellyn looked over at the rattata. "I'm sorry about all this."
"Not your fault." Issac sadly smiled. "Tell me. Is Rhythmi doing alright?"
"She's fine. But she does miss you." Kellyn replied.
"R-really?" Issac's breath caught, surprised.
"Yeah. Quite a bit, actually." Kellyn said.
Issac sat down, lost in thought and shocked. "Rhythmi missed me. Me! The girl I've thought about for so long wants to see me again!"
With that, the ranger set off for Vien Forest and on his way to deliver Seren's message to her cousin.
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From the library, the doors slammed wide open. Mankey gleefully danced about in victory. In his hands was the Book of Vien. The mankey hadn't noticed that there was a murkrow who watched and flew off. Too busy being overjoyed at the find. Right away, mankey left for the lake where all the pokemon were. Well…it was evening again. So they were back to their human selves. The Ranger Festival was in one day.
"Well done, Mankey." Latios said.
"Where was it?" Seren asked.
"Ah…" Mankey sweatdropped. "Ahem. Well…it was on my chair. I sat on it."
"OH COME ON!" Latias moaned, face palming.
"Here you are." Mankey handed the book to Seren.
Seren felt the book within her hands. The Soul Drop shimmered, unlocking the silver vines from the book. It was readable! And how conveniently, the book flipped open to the exact page needed.
"The one who frees the Soul Drop…" Seren read. "Must share a love so true."
"True love!" Issac figured out.
"And Sere's already got a true love! With the ranger!" Latias sang.
"Kellyn?!" Seren yelped. "N-not him! It can't be!"
"You're turning as red as Keith's hair." Kate chuckled, with Keith playfully messing up her hair.
"Wait!" Issac stopped them, looking at the book. "I see a 'however'..."
"What's the catch?" Keith asked.
"However, if he swears his love to another, then the Soul Dew loses its power." Issac read.
"Not fair!" Latias huffed.
"But you underestimate the power of true love." Mankey said. "It's rare but the strongest kind of magic alive."
"How rare is it? And how strong? Does it mean introducing parents?" Latias asked.
"More or less." Mankey shrugged. "Two beings love and care about each other more than life itself! They'd die for the other!"
"Alone, they are two. Together, they are one." Latios recited. "We've already got blossoming love between Kate and Keith."
Kate and Keith gaped at latios with wide eyes and a dark set of scarlet on their cheeks. They were tempted to deny it but looked too embarrassed to even speak right. Both went into awkward stammering before turning away with even redder faces. Made Seren chuckle.
"And quite possibly Issac too." Latios added.
"ME?" Issac gulped.
"You do have feelings for this Rhythmi girl, don't you?" Latios questioned.
Issac was silent. His mind already wandered to thoughts of the sweet operator.
"Hey shouldn't we be busy getting Seren ready?" Latias asked.
"Ready?" Seren blinked.
"For the festival, silly!" Latias patted her head. "Imagine it! You walk in and you see him from across the room!"
Latias looked over at Kate and Keith, waiting for something. The two were completely puzzled by the pokemon. With a sigh, latias flew over.
"He will ask you to dance!" Latias pushed Keith into Kate.
"HEY!" Keith yelped.
"SAY IT!" Latias ordered.
Keith gulped, staring down at Kate as his face grew warm. "I, er,…Kate? Would you like to dance?"
"I guess so…" Kate turned pink.
"Then, you'll be in his arms!" Latias sighed, lost in the moment.
Kate didn't want to make Latias snap again (lest the psychic powers start raging). She wrapped her arms around Keith and slid into an embrace. Awkward. And Keith was thinking the same thing judging by his facial expression.
"And when the moments right, he'll declare his love for you!" Latias announced.
Silence. Keith was staring at the red pokemon in disbelief. Kate wasn't sure what to make of this.
"Keith." Latias growled. "Declare your love for Kate."
"WHAT! Why?" Keith questioned.
"It's part of the demonstration! Seren has to know these things!" Latias responded.
"MAKE ME!" Keith stuck out his tongue.
"OK THAT'S IT!" Latias snapped.
With psychic powers, Keith was lifted into the air and thrown into the lake. Everyone else sweatdropped at the weird struggle that was going on.
"Theatrics aside…" Seren spoke up. "I don't think Kellyn would fall for me. We're friends…"
"A latios can see into the soul of a living being. Know what I see?" Latios said. "I see a kind-hearted, sweet young lady whose bravery and confidence is worth more than the Soul Dew treasure."
Seren smiled. "Thanks latios."
"I may not have much energy left but I may be able to help you." Latios closed his eyes, lowering his head.
He was using his psychic powers again. Seren was glowing a light blue with magic sparkles. Her dress was changing into something else. The gown was now a strapless ballroom dress with twice as much shine. It was serene mix of light blues and purples that was dazzling under the moonlight. Seren practically looked like a princess!
"You look incredible!" Kate complimented.
"Thanks, Kate." Seren responded, admiring her new dress. "Wow is this fancy…but latios? Problem. I don't know a thing about ballroom dancing?"
Keith came over, wringing out the water from his clothes. "Didn't you dance with Kellyn last night?"
"Basic stuff. I'm still not any good." Seren sighed.
"Oh not a problem! I can teach you!" Latias cheerfully offered.
"Even if you're a pokemon?" Seren sweatdropped.
"All I need are two volunteers to show you!" Latias said.
Keith, sensing something was up, tried to sneak off again. Too late. Latias froze him with her psychic abilities. She forced him to come back over.
"You're out of your mind!" Keith objected furiously.
"Uh latias? Can't you and latios turn into humans to show us?" Kate nervously suggested.
"True. But it wouldn't be any fun." Latias smirked.
The red pokemon then controlled Kate as well. She and Keith were brought together, wrapping each others arms around one another. Some of the other pokemon grabbed forest instruments and played music for this dance; mankey was the conductor. Keith started to glide across the grass with Kate, dancing wonderfully.
"You getting this Seren?" Latias asked.
Seren studied the movements. "I'm starting to see it…"
"LET US GO!" Keith cried out.
"Not until Seren understands dancing." Latias huffed.
"Um Keith? T-this um…it's not so bad…" Kate nervously stammered.
Keith looked away, a peculiar expression on his face. "…I guess not."
"Maybe this would be easier if I tried." Seren advised.
"Good idea!" Latias agreed. "Issac? Would you mind being Seren's partner?"
"Not at all." Issac replied.
Issac grabbed Seren and the two copied the movements shown by latias, Keith and Kate. Dancing was easier to focus on. Though it was mostly because of the partner. Seren wasn't exactly feeling anything weird with Issac. Just two friends learning to ballroom dance.
"You look distracted." Seren noticed after some time.
"Hm?" Issac blinked.
"Issac? You ok?" Seren asked.
"Oh! Sorry!" Issac sweatdropped. "I was just thinking!"
"About…?" Seren asked.
Issac hesitated. "Well…um…about a close friend of mine."
Close friend? Seren could assume what that meant. Probably the same close Kate and Keith were, who, by the way, were still dancing under latias' control. Much to their embarrassment.
"That transfer to the Union? I was happy to go but not just because of the opportunities. What I really wanted was to see her again." Issac quietly explained. "I…I never was able to tell her how I really felt."
"Why not?" Seren asked.
"Because she's way too beautiful. And I'm just a researcher. A geek, some would say." Issac sighed.
"But you're really nice, super smart and great to be with! Girls like that in a guy! And I'm sure that girl will see more inside of you than you think!" Seren told him. "Didn't Kellyn mention her? Rhythmi, right?"
"Yes…" Issac smiled slightly at the name.
"I heard he said that Rhythmi missed you. It's obvious that she's thinking about you, Issac, and she's worried. Would normal friends be that concerned?" Seren questioned.
"I guess-…" Issac started to say.
"HELP! AAAAHHHH!"
The dancing and music stopped. There was a dark pool opening up in the ground and it was sucking mankey in, along with the book! Seren let go of her dance partner, running over to mankey. But it was too late. He was already swallowed up in the darkness and stolen away.
"Mankey!" Seren called out.
"Damn it!" Keith pounded his fist on a tree in frustration.
Latios was about to hit but found his energy weakening. The dark magic grasping the land and his used up magic on the dance was too much for him. And if that wasn't bad enough, the sun was rising. Everyone turned back into their pokemon forms once more.
"We can't let Darkrai win." Seren whispered.
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Mankey had been taken to Darkrai's evil palace. He was tied up in chains and hung upside down from the ceiling. Lavana applied makeup but was paying close attention to what was going on. Darkrai was flipping through the pages of the book, deeply interested.
"No point lookin in there!" Mankey shouted as he wrestled the chains. "It's all fairy tales and silly stories! You're wasting your time!"
"Oh really?" Darkrai's grin grew warped and twisted. "What about this part about the Soul Drop being not so invincible after all? Hm? Latios would surely hate that."
Defeated, Mankey glared at the enemies.
"Lavana, darling? Remember that crown you wanted?" Darkrai asked his daughter.
"YAY! I'm going to get it aren't it?" Lavana squealed.
"Tonight at the Ranger Festival! My sources tell me that Seren is going to meet that ranger boy there." Darkrai told her.
The pokemon's dark hand flickered black & purple, transferring energy into Lavana. Lavana's pink lipstick and blush turned to a sickening red color.
"Daddy! That was my second favorite makeup kit!" Lavana fussed.
"It's magic now. Your inherited Zorua powers are finally unlocked" Darkrai said. "Every time that Kellyn boy sees you, you'll look exactly like Seren, his true love."
"….so?" Lavana questioned.
Darkrai groaned. "SO. You trick him! Make him think he's dancing with Seren when really, he's dancing with you. And eventually you can make him declare his love for you. The Soul Drop's power will weaken and get rid of that blasted girl Seren. Can I count on your help, my sweet little skitty?"
"Is lipstick a girls best friend?" Lavana happily responded.
"That's my girl!" Darkrai chuckled. "With Seren out of the way and the Soul Drop powers lost, our fates will be fulfilled. I shall rule this region in darkness while you, princess, get to be the most dashing girl in it!"
"I like the sound of that!" Lavana clapped.
"Who knows what the future holds? We could very well conquer other lands! Dip them into the shadows forever!" Darkrai proclaimed.
Lavana laughed evilily alongside her father. Mankey could've sworn his heart stopped. Truly a horrible plan!
"It'll never work!" Mankey snapped.
"Bold words for a pokemon about to meet his doom." Darkrai snarled, casting yet another dark void onto his latest victim.
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The pokemon group traveled to the edge of Darkrai's territory. Being there made them shiver in terror. Kate seemed to be the one most upset. Keith slipped his paw on hers, doing his best to comfort her.
"You think mankey's…?" Seren's voice trailed off.
"No. He's still alive." Latios shook his head. "But he's under a magic spell now."
Seren looked over the castle. "When Darkrai isn't using his dark pool, his shadow flies everywhere. Since the bottom is nothing but a deep abyss, he'd instead fly to the top. I'm guessing there's an entrance near the roof. I'll go check."
"And what? Have us watch?" Latias questioned. "I can't let my buddy go alone!"
"I'll need all of you to help me." Seren said.
She gathered everyone into a huddle to relay her plan. It was tricky but might work. Everyone seemed to be in an agreement on it. After a moment of planning and 'good lucks', Seren took off. It was nerve-wrecking to fly in a dark place. But she had to do what she could. Ignore the fear and keep moving forward. For mankey.
Seren flew around the top towers of the palace. Surprisingly, it didn't take much for her to find the entryway. It was an open spot that dove into a long tunnel with many turns. At the end was a fireplace, which Seren carefully avoided, within a grand room. Seren landed on the cold marble flooring. Thankfully, no one else seemed to be around.
"Mankey?" Seren yell-whispered. "Mankey? Are you here?"
"Over here!"
The swana used her bird legs to hop over to a tree stump. Inside was mankey…but he was transformed into a wurmple. A white & brown, furry wurmple.
"You gotta help! This blasted curse got me and the murkrow are hungry!" Mankey pleaded.
Seren picked mankey up in her mouth. Yuck! Gross! She quickly flipped him on the back of her head. He held on but tensed up as the sound of murkrow approached. As the black birds came in to get the intruders, Seren flew out the way she came in. Murkrow quickly gave chase.
"Watch it! They're gaining on us!" Mankey warned, panicked.
"No worries. I got this." Seren assured him.
A swoop over here and a turn that way. Seren led the three pursuing murkrow back to the woods. And where three pokemon were waiting eagerly.
"NOW!" Seren shouted.
Keith used flamethrower, Kate shot out a shadowball and latias hit with a dragonbreath. All of the murkrow were stuck, fainting on spot.
"WOO! We are good!" Latias cheered.
"Oh yeah!" Keith high-paw'd Kate.
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The Union was busy hurrying about. First floor was cleared out so it could be a ballroom. Decorations were hung, snack table set and people starting to come to the party. There were lovely ladies in dresses and gentleman in fine suits & tuxes. Kellyn was off to the side, pacing with anxiety. He tugged at the collar of his black and white tuxedo.
"Kellyn? What're you up to, dude?" Wendy asked.
"Yeah dude. Can't meet any girls when you're over here." Sven said.
"I'm uh…well I'm waiting for someone." Kellyn replied.
"A girlfriend, we hope." Wendy joked.
"Actually, she might be…" Kellyn smiled nervously.
"Congrats dude!" Sven fist-pumped. "Who's the lucky gal?"
"Sven, don't make him nervous." Wendy pushed her partner a little.
"Alright, alright! Later, Kell. Taking my date to get some punch." Sven said.
"I'm not your date." Wendy smacked his head.
"Sure." Sven winked. "Just friends."
Wendy rolled her eyes as Sven dragged her off. That left Kellyn to pace some more by himself. It was evening already. Soon would be night. And with any luck, soon would be the lovely lady's entrance.
"Seren, please come." He whispered, hopeful.
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"…and then Darkrai will use Lavana to trick Kellyn!"
Everyone gathered around mankey, who was propped on a mushroom (since he was a little wurmple) and retold everything he heard at the dark palace.
"But it has to be Seren!" Latias spoke up, worried.
"This is terrible!" Kate whimpered with Keith holding her paw.
"What if I go to warn him?" Latias suggested.
"No." Seren shook her head. "I'll go."
"Hey there are a dozen poachers ready to capture a perfect swana and rangers who'll capture you for information!" Latias warned.
"It's got to be me! Then Kellyn can actually see he's being tricked!" Seren argued.
"….good point." Latias nodded.
"Use the Soul Drop to open the waterfall open. Be careful out there." Latios instructed.
"Thank you." Seren whispered.
The swana took off, flying high into the sky. It was already evening. Not quite sundown yet. Seren would have to hurry her way to the Ranger Union. And she'd make sure to avoid trouble while passing through Pueltown. With any luck, Seren might be able to warn Kellyn before it was too late.
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Activities were picking up at the Ranger Festival. People dancing and talking to one another. Everyone was having fun. Kellyn, though, decided to wait by the sidelines more. He looked around the room. Where's Seren?
"No sign of your special girl?"
Rhythmi came over, sipping punch. Looked nice in her dark green dress. Simple but effective.
"Not yet." Kellyn sighed. "And how'd you…?"
"Sven and Wendy." Rhythmi quickly answered.
Sven was wearing a dark blue tux that matched his hair. He was trying to tease Wendy, who decided to wear a white gown. Wendy snapped at him but Sven laughed it off. The top ranger girl was too stubborn to admit but she was already starting to fall to his charms. They'd be dancing together soon enough.
Strolling into the Union was Lavana, wearing a small black dress and red makeup that flickered upon arrival. Darkrai was but a shadow lurking beside her.
"Remember? Not one word." Darkrai whispered.
"Why not?" Lavana growled.
"Ah ah ah!" Darkrai stopped her. "Don't speak. Otherwise he'll see through the magic."
"Fine." Lavana groaned.
Rhythmi left to go refill her punch. Which was fine because Kellyn caught sight of Lavana. But it wasn't Lavana he saw. Poor guy was caught victim under dark magic; seeing Seren's image instead. Kellyn ran right over to her.
"S-Seren! I'm so glad you could make it!" Kellyn greeted, heart beating fast.
"And I…" Lavana started to say.
Darkrai crushed her foot really hard, making Lavana cough. She bashfully smiled instead as she was kept silent. Kellyn didn't seem to notice. He instead bowed courteously, holding out his hand.
"May I have this next dance?" Kellyn asked.
Lavana smiled and slid her hand into his. Together, the two walked onto the dance floor. Arms locked and bodies close. Kellyn was stuck in a lovesick daze as he stared at who he thought was Seren.
Seren, meanwhile, was racing against the clock. She flew at high speeds through the waterfall and over Vien Forest. With the Ranger Festival going on, no rangers were about and poachers had been taken care of. What a relief! It was much easier to get to the Union now!
Darkrai watched the dance with a triumphant look. But his pleasure turned to disgust as he heard wing flaps. Looks like Seren was drawing near. And she was heading for the open window. Darkrai used his powers to slam it shut and lock her out.
The swana gasped. Shoot! So close! She flew a little ways to another open window with a view inside. No! Kellyn was already dancing with Lavana! He had no idea what was really going on! And there was Darkrai! Who shut the windows in Seren's face once again. Seren's wings pounded the glass but to no avail.
"I…I…" Kellyn took a deep breath. "There's been something I've been meaning to tell you."
Wait! Stop! Seren tried to hit the glass! It wasn't breaking! She wasn't able to stop this!
Kellyn stared deep into Lavana's eyes with a serious expression. "I love you. With all my heart and soul. You are my one and only love."
"KELLYN!" Seren screamed.
The Soul Drop on her tiara lost its glow. Its powers were fading rapidly. Seren felt the effects right away. Her head was slammed with intense dizziness and nausea. Breath was caught within the constricted throat. Seren stumbled, fainting. The swana body landed beside the Union in a crumpled heap.
"Good work, ranger!" called a voice, shattering the tranquil air of the ball. "Everything went according to plan!"
Kellyn whirled around at the familiar voice. Before he could track the source, the lips on 'Seren' flashed bright red. Her appearance melted into Lavana, who shifted into a royal pink & black dress fit for an evil empress.
"YOU!" Kellyn growled.
"When's the wedding, handsome?" Lavana mocked.
Darkrai appeared before her, causing the entire population of the festival to freak out.
"What did you do with Seren?" Kellyn angrily demanded.
"It's too late for your precious girlfriend." Darkrai sneered. "Your love was pledged to my daughter. And you sealed the fate."
Darkrai whisked himself and Lavana away into a dark pool. Sven tossed his top styler to Kellyn but the duo were gone before a chance to battle came. Kellyn stood in a daze, heartbroken and worried for Seren's safety.
Outside the Union, the sun had gone down. Seren was still unconscious but transformed back to her human form. Darkrai and Lavana approached her with devious smirks. They surrounded Seren.
"What a lovely little girl. Too bad your hero doesn't love you." Darkrai sneered, plucking the crown off of Seren. "Let's see your bravery when I take the Soul Drop away from you."
"Daddy? Aren't you forgetting something?" Lavana edgily questioned.
The Soul Drop was plucked from the crown and placed on Darkrai's neck. Darkrai gave the empty tiara to his daughter, who wore it with joy.
"All yours." Darkrai said.
"I love it!" Lavana squealed, jumping about. "It so matches my make up!"
"HIYAH!"
From the side, Kellyn leapt out and tried to karate kick Darkrai. Darkrai dodged it with a hearty laugh. Kellyn readied the top styler and aimed it at Darkrai. Rhythmi had followed him outside out of worry. But now she was completely stunned with this strange scene. What the heck was going on?
"Come to propose to my daughter?" Darkrai bitterly joked.
A capture disk was launched but Darkrai quickly launched his own dark magic. The disk was turned into a mere pebble. Kellyn stumbled back, unsure how to proceed.
From around the corner came a carriage. It was a pretty one in bright pink & blue. Latias and latios were the ones pulling it while Keith, Kate and Issac sat in the back. They arrived to the scene, horrified at the sight.
"We're too late!" Kate exclaimed.
"No, she has some life force yet! She's still alive!" Latios told her.
Keith and Issac leapt out of the carriage to go over. Kellyn saw them, getting an idea what to do.
"Come and get me, hags!" He taunted.
"HE DID NOT JUST CALL ME A HAG!" Lavana screeched.
"That does it!" Darkrai spat.
The dark pokemon gathered energy into a dark void again. Kellyn danced to the left and right, making Darkrai try to aim. Not easy with a moving target. At the last possible moment, Darkrai shot out the dark void and Kellyn dragged Lavana into it. Lavana screamed as her body was changed into that of a croagunk.
"My baby!" Darkrai flew over to her side. "Daddy's sorry!"
Perfect opportunity. Issac helped lift Seren into Keith's arms.
"Issac?"
Issac looked over to see a girl running his way.
"R-Rhythmi!" The genius gasped.
"Yo! Issac! We have to go! NOW!" Keith reminded, starting to jog back to the carriage.
"Don't go! Please don't go!" Rhythmi pleaded, about to cry.
It hurt to see Rhythmi look so hurt. No doubt she really missed him. Issac didn't have a choice though. With a heavy heart, he kissed her forehead and caressed her cheek.
"I'm so sorry." Issac whispered, trembling. "But there's something I need to do."
After a final look over the gorgeous operator, Issac turned and ran back to the carriage. He hoped inside where the others where. Kate was tending to Seren with Keith ready to help, looking just as uneasy. Everyone was there. Latios and latias took off once again.
"BLAST!" Darkrai cursed as he saw the carriage speed off. "They got away!"
"Daddy! Look how ugly I am! FIX ME!" Lavana ordered.
Darkrai growled. He didn't have time for this. They were getting away! There wasn't a chance to change Lavana back at the moment. Darkrai turned into a shadow and flew off within the wind, ignoring the irritable cries of his daughter.
The carriage was dashing through the Vien Forest at this point. Sky was getting darker. Not too much farther to Magic Springs.
"I-is she ok?" Latias asked.
Her answer was three very worried looks. And that was the least of their troubles. Several feet high in the air was Darkrai. He was in hot pursuit of the group. Latios and latias knew what to do. They used their psychic abilities to lift the carriage, flying them through the forest at a faster rate. The waterfall opened for them. Both the carriage and Darkrai ducked through the opening. Back into Magic Springs they were though they didn't just stop there.
Darkrai, frustrated, used his magic on a tree in front of the carriage. Latios and latias barely had enough time to steer away. But the sudden turn made the carriage tip over, crashing it straight into the ground. Everyone cried out as they endured the rough landing. Issac helped keep Seren steady, Keith threw himself over Kate protectively while latios took the full blunt of the fall for his sister.
"Much better. You know I hate rushing around like this."
The shadow came out, shifting back into Darkrai's original form.
"Now for the girl…" Darkrai started to float closer.
"STOP!" Latias shouted, standing before him.
Keith and Issac joined her. They blocked Darkrai from going any further.
"Stop, Darkrai." Latios flew over. "Your battle is with me. Not Seren."
Darkrai cackled. "You're right, latios."
Darkrai prepared another dark void while latios tried to charge up a luster purge. However, the shadow pokemon was slightly quicker. He was able to get latios in the dark void before luster purge was ready. After a few seconds, latios emerged from the dark void….but as a bidoof.
"Brother!" Latias whimpered.
The sisters despair quickly turned to fury. She tried to use a take down attack but missed. Her head crashed into a tree, making latias confused. Keith and Issac still stood against Darkrai but had to fumble a few steps backwards. There wasn't anything they could really do, human or pokemon. One of them tried to throw a rock but Darkrai crushed it.
"Is that it? All you've got?" Darkrai shouted.
Arriving late to the party was a doduo, with Kellyn and Rhythmi riding on top. They hopped off, gaping at the sight. It was most likely safe to assume Rhythmi had been caught up to speed on everything but Issac was still terrified for her life. She shouldn't be here! Not in this danger!
Seren moaned, feeling one heck of a headache. She wearily opened her eyes. Alive? Was she still alive? Yes! But this wasn't good! Kellyn stood against Darkrai, who flew closer to him. That capture styler wouldn't be able to defeat the nightmare pokemon! Kellyn was in trouble! Shots were fired, barely missing the ranger. Seren jumped out of the carriage (ignoring Kate's pleas to stay put) and ran after the two in battle.
"You think a scawny human can defeat a powerful pokemon like me?" Darkrai yelled.
"KELLYN!" Seren screamed.
Kellyn ran up to her, holding the girl in his arms. The pair shook as their faces were pale with fear.
"No! Seren! You don't have the Soul Drop!" Kellyn shouted.
Darkrai used a shadow ball instead of a dark void this time. It struck down on Kellyn and Seren like lightning, making them cry out in pain. They blacked out mid-attack, on the edge of death. Even as they fell to the ground, their arms wrapped around each other in a loving embrace.
"Two for one!" Darkrai laughed again. "And now! This Magic Springs and Vien Forest! THEY ARE MINE!"
Keith and Issac watched in horror as they guarded their girls from the monstrous pokemon. Darkrai went on to proclaim that Almia was in his grasp and soon, the world. This was it. It was all over. Evil had won.
…or did it?
The Soul Drop on Darkrai's neck started to glow back to its purple hue. The light was even stronger than it had ever been before! Darkrai shrieked as the light made his body freeze up and hover high into the air. Sparks of light danced off the crystal. It was starting to make Darkrai surrounded by an aura of light.
"T-the crystal's power! It's still here!" Latias realized.
As the light grew brighter and Darkrai's screams louder, the darkness of the Magic Springs vanished. The palace came crumbling down. Those trapped under Darkrai's rule were set free. Light was restored to the places once plagued by shadows. Life began anew. Latios started glowing as well, shifting back into his dragon form once more. Issac, Kate and Keith were flickering, feeling the curse being lifted from their bodies. The sun was rising but they weren't transforming! Victory!
"The legend! True love!" Latias said.
"It was Seren and Kellyn's love that saved us all!" Kate spoke.
The two people in question opened their eyes slowly. They found themselves holding the other close, staring at their light-filled eyes. Kellyn carefully assisted Seren to a standing position, looking at her with a gentle expression.
"Seren." He whispered.
"Kellyn." Seren murmured.
"I was tricked. It's you I love." Kellyn confessed. "You're the only girl I could ever want."
Seren smiled. She pecked the lips of her love and gently rested her head on his shoulders. That was her answer.
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It took some time for things to properly settle down. The Union decided to clean up the mess and not ask questions about what happened. Instead, another festival was thrown in its place. More people showed up this time. Nothing weird happened this time.
"What a party!" Keith took a huge gulp of punch.
Kate giggled. "Keep drinking so much and you'll have a sugar high!"
"Too late! Feeling the rush!" Keith whoop'd. "…huh? Hey what are you smiling about?"
"What's not to smile about?" Kate questioned.
"Hmm. Well there's the fact we're human again." Keith said.
"And we're back in Almia." Kate added.
"Oh! And we've been assigned to Vientown base! It's supposed to be super cool!" Keith pointed out.
"Plus we….um…" Kate paused.
Keith blinked, confused. "Plus what?"
"Plus…" Kate blushed. "W-we're partners. We get to stay together. No matter what."
Keith turned pink. He remembered what he had said during their time in Magic Springs. And right now, he didn't feel any different. Kate still looked cute. Adorable, actually. That pink dress made her look like a fairy. Keith really wanted to see her with her hair down. But then again, he might lose it if he were to see that.
"So…uh…" Keith sheepishly scratched the back of his neck. "Y-you wanna dance?"
"Really?" Kate gasped.
"I-it'd be an honor." Keith said, nearly tripping over his words.
He carefully grasped Kate's delicate hand and led her out to the dance floor. Used to hate dancing. Now? Keith found himself liking it. Staring into the eyes of the once-eevee, the ex-quilava smoothly danced across the room.
Somewhere else, Rhythmi sat by a windowsill watching. Romance was in the air! What a great atmosphere! Though with everyone paired up, she felt a little lonely herself.
"For you, my dear." A voice suddenly spoke up.
Rhythmi gasped as a red rose was presented to her. The one holding it was Issac, dressed in a classy white tux. He looked so handsome in that! Rhythmi burned up just staring at him!
"I-Issac! That's so sweet!" Rhythmi teared up.
The rose was carefully tucked into her hair. Issac helped the operator up before they started walking.
"W-what's the occasion?" Rhythmi shyly asked.
"It's an apology. For disappearing like that." Issac answered.
"I already forgive you. Nobody knew that you were turned into a pokemon and held captive." Rhythmi told him. "As long as you're here now and you're safe, I'm happy."
"Yes but…but I didn't want you to worry about me. I heard from Kellyn you missed me." Issac said.
"Ummmm…" Rhythmi gulped.
"I'm really sorry for that. I would never want you to be upset." Issac apologized. "All I want is to see you smile. To know you're ok. During my time as a rattata, it's all I wished for. You were the only one I thought about."
Rhythmi hugged him. She sobbed a little in his chest, emotional. Issac stroked her head as he whispered words of comfort. It was a minute before Rhythmi leaned up and kissed his lips. Issac happily complied, returning the gesture. After torn apart by darkness, Rhythmi and Issac were together again.
Latias and latios were at the ball. But no one knew they were pokemon. With powers returned to them, they could use their full abilities. Including the one where they'd look like humans. It'd be useful since they could stay in the Magic Springs and explore Almia. Not to mention keeping an eye on croagunk Lavana and her daddy, the Darkrai who was turned into a watch.
However the real love was being shared by Kellyn and his new ranger partner. They spent the entire night glued to each others side. Barely even spent time at the snack table or sitting down. Couldn't help but dance away, growing deeper and deeper in love. If that was even possible.
"You are positively enchanting in that white silk dress." Kellyn sighed pulling Seren closer.
"You're not so bad yourself. You look good in a tux." Seren smiled.
"Of course." Kellyn pompously said. "I'm a prince with his elegant princess."
"Well mister prince, what happens now?" Seren giggled.
"Sweetheart, we'll stay in this castle we call the Union. And we'll make sure the kingdom of Almia is kept peaceful forever more." Kellyn told her. "The two of will live happily ever after."
"I love the sound of that." Seren touched foreheads, staring deep in his eyes. "And I love you."
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Talk about a story! Wrote 42 word document pages! Longest yet!
Chia: Yet.
I ignored being sick to write late into the night and early morning, barely took a break and studied the movie (despite it being cheesey). All for my coauthor and the fan who requested the story!
Chia: Next update?
I WRITE 40-SOMETHING PAGES IN LESS THAN 12 HOURS AND YOU ASK FOR AN UPDATE ALREADY?!
Chia: I don't. The readers do.
*sweatdrop* I'll get started soon. Next update around the corner.
P.S. If there are any editing mistakes, I'll fix later. First I need a break and maybe a nap…