Disclaimer: I don't own Pokémon…why am I still writing this?
With the help of Raigeki, Team Tatsujin and Rocket managed to arrive at Sukaku's headquarters within 20 minutes. Thanks to the cover of the trees and bushes, everyone was able to observe the entrance without being detected. It was good timing since Sukaku obviously expected their arrival due to high security.
Kaisuke, knelt over behind a small bush, narrowed his focus at the Wartortles blocking the cave. "Whoever's in charge knew we would be coming. We won't be able to sneak in very easily. Our strategic options are limited."
"So what do we do? It'll be harder to fight them if we're detected to early." Kasumi frowned at the idea. Time wasn't on their side, so they couldn't waste time on small fries.
"Or will it…?" Kabushi grinned to himself, a plot in mind, "if we can rush and overwhelm quickly, that would stir a panic and cause them to be scattered and confused. That will be our window of opportunity."
"I like that idea! Let's do it!" Satoshi gripped the handle of his sword, prepared to rush.
"About time your brain started working. On the count to three, let's rush them." With a growl, Satoshi listened to Kabushi and prepared to spring into action. Kabushi was also ready to strike. "1…2…3!"
"LET'S GO!" With a cry, Satoshi shot from the bushes and ran to attack the several Wartortles. With Kasumi and Raigeki's help, most of the Wartortles were quickly devastated. Unfortunately, reinforcements were swift to arrive and surround them.
It was clear that Kabushi's plan didn't work very well. The water Pokémon were too well organized to be thrown into chaos that easily. Satoshi grimaced. "Uh…Kabushi? I don't think that plan is working. Do you have a backup plan?" When he turned to see Kabushi, he was met with a surprise.
He was gone, as was everyone except Kasumi and Raigeki.
Kasumi felt very aggravated for two reasons. One, Kabushi had most likely tricked them into running head first against enemy front lines. Secondly, she hated herself for actually falling for it. "Well…this is quite a predicament…"
"GET THEM!" One of the Wartortles shouted, causing the wave of enemies to rush at the teens and Pokémon.
Elsewhere, Team Rocket and the remaining members of Team Tatsujin had successfully entered Sukaku's cave. Motoko took a gander at Satoshi and Kasumi, getting overwhelmed by the large Pokémon wave. She honestly felt bad for them. "Did we really have to do that to them?"
"It was definitely necessary, as well as satisfying. 'Operation: get Satoshi killed first' was a partial success, but enough to get us in undetected.
"Why a partial success?"
"Because that fool isn't dead yet."
Motoko turned to Kaisuke, a worried look on her face. "Is everyone from this Arcadia school this violent?"
The Ivalian Alchemist shrugged. "Ever since I met Satoshi, I've run into an innumerable amount of oddities. I don't know what makes sense in Arcadia anymore."
"Interesting…" And here she thought the Hinata Inn was filled with weirdoes. Apparently, they don't hold a candle to Arcadia.
After further walking, the group arrived at a 3-way path. In order to find Yuuki and Haruka quickly, they would have to cover all the paths at once while keeping a solid size group incase of unexpected danger. Kabushi quickly decided on a team setup. "Let's split up here. Ayane, Anji and I will take the right side. Ryuga, take the other two through the left path."
"But what about the middle?" Ryuga asked.
"Without a doubt, the middle path will most likely be tougher than the other two paths. We'll obviously leave that to the fool and that girl foolish enough to follow him."
"Actually, I have a request." Kaisuke spoke up, capturing everyone's attention, "I would like to go through the left path with just Ayane."
This caught Ayane's attention. "What's this about, Leo-san?"
Kaisuke thought to reveal his true identity, but decided to wait until later. "Nothing much. All I want to do is talk to you."
Kabushi was visibly annoyed. "I don't know what you got up your sleeve, but whatever you want to talk about you can—"
"It's alright, Kabu-kun. I'll take him up on his offer." Ayane had a strange feeling about Kaisuke. It wasn't fear or anxiety, but curiosity. Something about the alchemist seemed…familiar.
Kabushi opened his mouth to object, but noticed the scrutinizing looks he was getting from Ryuga and Anji. Their smiles were a little too wicked. He decided to let Ayane go ahead with the plan, for fear of getting teased relentlessly. "…Fine. You two can take the path alone. Leo, you better not try anything or I'll slice you to pieces."
Kaisuke raised his brow suspiciously. "Overprotective are we? If you think I plan to deflower her or something to that extent, you may put your fears to rest. Please proceed with haste, time is against us." And with that, Kaisuke left with Ayane down the left corridor.
Kabushi had a lost look on his face. "…Deflower her? What the hell does he mean by that?" he glanced at his troupe to notice something odd. Motoko's face turned bright red while Ryuga and Anji were having a laughing fit. This annoyed Kabushi greatly. "What the hell is so funny? What does flowers have anything to do with Ayane?" Ryuga and Anji started laughing harder.
"Ka…Kabu-kun…! What he meant was…PFFT! HAHAHAHA! OH MY GOD! THAT'S JUST TOO MUCH!" Ryuga had to hold onto the wall to keep himself standing.
"That guy…is quite a character. Nailed it right on the head! Bwahahaha!" Even Anji, who was normally stoic, was laughing boisterously.
"Ugh, useless bunch of fools! You, Motoko! What was the stupid joke that I missed?" Kabushi hated when he was the only one who didn't get it.
"W-well…what Leo-san meant was…"
1 minute later…
"LET ME GO! I'LL KILL HIM DEAD!" Ryuga and Anji had to put all of their strength into holding the furious samurai back. His dark red face was evident of his newfound knowledge.
About 5 minutes later, Satoshi and Kasumi arrived at the 3-way path, annoyed and slightly fatigued. "That Kabushi…! I can't believe he tricked us!" Satoshi was going to get that samurai the moment he had the chance.
"But at least we made it." Kasumi glanced over the 3 corridors. "It looks like finding Yuuki and Haruka won't be easy."
"Maybe they left a clue or something so we know which way to go." Satoshi started looking around for evidence of which way everyone went.
"Or maybe…we could just look at this note." Raigeki pointed at the wall next to the middle entrance, where a piece of paper was nailed to the wall with a knife.
Satoshi sweat-dropped. "Okay…that saves some guess work. Let's see what it says." Taking the note, Satoshi began reading the contents.
Satoshi,
We have taken the other two paths in order to scour this cavern quickly. Be a good boy and take the middle route.
Leo
P.S. – I sincerely apologize to Kasumi for leaving her. We didn't expect that she too would take the lunge.
"HEY! What about me!?" Satoshi bellowed.
P.P.S – Don't be a crybaby, Satoshi. We all make mistakes.
"Mistakes!? I was tricked!"
P.P.P.S – Instead of wasting your time reading this letter and blaming other people for your idiocy, you should be taking that middle path.
"Why that little…!" Satoshi was furious. "Fine! We'll take the stupid middle path! Come on Kasumi, let's go!"
"Uh…sure!" Running along with Satoshi and Raigeki, Kasumi couldn't help but praise Kaisuke for his intelligence, but hate him for his rudeness.
Just as the three left, Kabushi was seen leaving the right corridor, being followed by Ryuga, Anji and Motoko. "That damn Leo…! That guy must be up to something…!"
"Kabu-kun, where are you going? We're supposed to go this way!" Ryuga called out.
"I'm just going to make sure they don't get into too much trouble. You three go on ahead. Raijin, let's go!" Summoning his Raichu, Kabushi ran off into the direction that Ayane and Kaisuke went into.
Motoko couldn't help but feel confused about the young samurai. "…You would think he could be honest and just say he was worried about Ayane-san."
Anji shook his head. "He's not the type to let people into his bubble. He and Ayane-chan are skilled enough to handle themselves anyway, so let's not worry too much about them."
Ryuga nodded. "Right. Besides, we have people to save." Thus the trio went off into their designated area in search of Yuuki and Haruka.
With Kaisuke, he and Ayane had dispatched many of the enemies with ease. With Ayane's ninja arts and Kaisuke's alchemic abilities, they were a force to be reckoned with. Thanks to Kaisuke's alchemy skills and Ayane's trap know-how, all traps were effectively sealed. But they couldn't rest just yet, and not just because they were in enemy territory.
Kaisuke had waited patiently for the right moment to talk to Ayane. For the moment, there were no enemies nearby, meaning no interruptions. Unfortunately, he wouldn't be the one speaking to Ayane. Leo wanted to speak to her himself, which Kaisuke didn't mind. Given the matter at hand, the alter ego of Leo encouraged the idea. He stopped suddenly, getting Ayane's attention. "I think now would be the best time to start."
Ayane folded her arms, being more than patient with the teen. "It's about time. So, what was so important that you had to take me away from my team?"
"In due time. Unfortunately, I won't be the one speaking. One moment." Kaisuke closed his eyes for a few seconds. Without warning, Kaisuke started shrinking in size. Without a doubt this stunned Ayane. Leo opened his eyes, just awakening from his slumber. He glanced left and right to survey his surroundings. "…One would think he could've picked a better place for this conversation…"
"Uh…what just happened?"
"To put it simply, there are two of me. The one you spoke to earlier is Kaisuke, my alter ego."
"Kaisuke…" Ayane did find it odd how the boy seemed different every time she met him. Farfetched it was, but she couldn't deny what she just witnessed. "I see, but even if he's your alter ego, why does your height and stature change?"
"That will be explained in a moment. But first, I need to ask you one simple question. What is your last name?"
"Last name? That's an odd question. It's…"
After hearing the name, Leo grinned widely. Now all the pieces were together. "Heh…after all these years, being a genius pays off."
"Uh…care to fill me in?"
"Gladly. You see…"
Several yards away, a certain stalker was crouched behind a thick rock formation, attempting to eavesdrop on the two. "Dammit…I can't hear a thing…" Kabushi growled under his breath." From his perspective, Leo was excited about something and going into some sort of speech. Ayane seemed very interested, listening to every word.
"Uh…Kabu-kun…is there any particular reason you couldn't just, I don't know, ask her about the conversation later?" Raijin secretly wondered if Kabushi was a born stalker.
"That's a stupid idea. The last thing I want to do is look suspicious. I wonder if it's safe to get closer…"
Raijin sweat-dropped. "You mean this isn't at all suspicious? The same girl you deny having any intimate feelings about just happens to be the one you're stalking…I think this translate into one simple message: You got issues."
Kabushi snapped his head at Raijin, glaring at the Raichu. "You shut up. This has nothing to do with feelings or anything like that. That Leo is up to something strange, and I'm not going to sit around and let this go over my head. I must find out what's going on."
Raijin pointed accusingly at Kabushi. "I already know what's going on. You're jealous because Leo's getting some alone time with Ayane-chan and you're not."
"I am most certainly not jealous."
"Good. So it wouldn't bother you whatsoever if you saw the two hugging."
"What? They hugging? Why that has got to be the most preposterous—!!" Kabushi gasped suddenly when, as Raijin pointed, he spotted Ayane kneeling down and hugging Leo. Leo looked a bit embarrassed by this.
Even Raijin was surprised. "Whoa…! That's the first time I've ever seen her do that. I'll bet those two had a real special moment. I mean, look at that smile she has! She must be really…uh…are you alright…?" He couldn't help but feel the heat of anger coming from Kabushi. Hell, he could practically see the flames burning off him.
"Damn that Leo…! Just what the hell does he think he's doing with her…!?"
"What I am doing is my business." Leo answered.
The two sweat-dropped fiercely, given that the voices came from behind. It was evident what had transpired the moment the Leo and Ayane disappeared in a puff of smoke. A spooked Kabushi and Raijin turned around to see Leo's smug face and Ayane's annoyed one staring them down. "…Glad to see you two are okay?"
Ayane placed her hands onto her hands, irritated with Kabushi's suspicious behavior. "Kabu-kun, I am shocked. You're supposed to be with Ryu-kun and the others."
"Uh…" Kabushi's dumbfounded look rivaled Satoshi's. There was no getting out of this one. "So…Ayane…er…did you find—"
"Don't change the subject! You were spying on us! And just what reason do you have for trying to eavesdrop on me and Leo-kun?"
Kabushi's eyebrow twitched at the honorific. 'Since when the hell did she start calling him Leo-kun?' Though he wasn't in any position to start demanding answers, he was definitely going to get to the bottom of that one. He had no choice but to make a sacrifice. He turned his face so he wouldn't look at her in the eye. "I…just wanted to make sure you two were alright. It didn't feel right with our forces divided so unevenly."
Ayane sighed. She couldn't stay mad at him, especially after saying something like that. "Well, we were finished anyway, so I guess it's fine. Come on, let's go find those two brats before they get killed." Ayane continued on, leaving the two behind.
Leo shrugged and began following Ayane. Of course, he made sure to leave a comment for Kabushi to remember him by. "In case you were wondering, they felt nice and soft."
That did the trick.
"No Kabu-kun! Don't do it!" Raijin pleaded, attempting to pull the raging samurai back.
"Damn him! I'll cut his freakin' head off, I swear!" Kabushi was burning with fury, wildly swinging his sword at the cool and calm alchemist.
After many minutes of traveling, some of which were spent trying to prevent Kabushi from committing first-degree murder, the group arrived at a large room filled with water. Scattered across the room were large pieces of rock that could be used as platforms to get across the water. In the distance, the gang saw what appeared to be a keyhole. Other than that, it was a dead end.
Ayane glanced left and right. She wasn't getting very good vibes from this place. "What is this place…?"
"Your grave…"
"The exit!" Kabushi glanced back to see a massive wall covering where the exit was, sealing everyone inside. Looking back, he suddenly saw something in the middle of the platforms that wasn't there before.
Yamaga the Slowking.
"Glad you can finally make it. It's not polite to be late to your own funerals." The slowking taunted.
"The only thing you did was piss me off!" Kabushi yelled.
"You're Yamaga, aren't you?" Leo questioned, glaring at the Slowking.
"Correct. You might've noticed the keyhole behind me. If you want to leave here, you'll have to defeat me and take this." Yamaga pointed to the key that was hanging around his neck. "Of course, this is assuming that you have what it takes to defeat the ultimate psychic of the Water Fangs serving under Lord Raokei."
"A psychic you say? In which case, you should be able to see your own demise quite clearly." Leo erected a steel sword from the platform with the use of alchemy.
"Hmhmhm, what a child. I'll wipe that smug look off your face. Ah, before we start, there is something you want to be aware of. If you'll direct your attention to the water, you might see something swimming under." Just as Yamaga said, silhouettes of Pokémon could be see swimming underneath. "I won't be the only danger you'll face. There are dangers lurking underwater that will most likely kill you before I do."
Ayane, Leo and Kabushi started stepping away from the edge. This battle was going to be very, very tricky. Any mistakes could easily lead to their deaths.
"Well, without further ado, let us begin…"
Elsewhere, Ryuga, Anji and Motoko were searching any and every opening and path they ran across. Unfortunately, they found no sign of Yuuki or Haruka. Unlike Leo's group, everyone was quiet. Motoko couldn't help but wonder what was going through everyone's minds. Both Anji and Ryuga, for the first time she realized, had very serious looks on their faces.
Ryuga had no problem with rescuing Haruka, even if she was from a rivaling team. Yuuki, however, was a priority. He, better than anyone, knew the dangers befalling the Odamaki ninja. Yuuki had escaped right before the limiter could be completely placed. In order for the Curse Seal be kept under controllable conditions, it had to be cross-fused with the user's natural seal. Once that was done, a special seal has to be placed to keep the two firmly fused. Currently, the Curse Seal within Yuuki is loosening, leaking out. If the fusion isn't completed in time, the Curse Seal will completely take over and devour Yuuki. Once that happens…no, he wasn't going to let that happen. He was going to prevent another disaster from happening. The mage believed in Saito's intentions and was going to make sure he fulfilled those expectations.
Anji's worries were elsewhere, mainly on the Mugendai no Tsurugi. Whispers of its power have floated through time. It was said that the swords hold the key to immense power. Should it be unlocked, the wielder could easily crush a city with a small fraction of its power. If that person even knew how to use it, the world would be in danger. Someone like Sukaku could not have those swords. Sukaku, like the other fangs of the Raokei, despised humans. Should Sukaku unlock the Mugendai and use it for himself, he could easily exterminate humankind. No matter the cost, Anji MUST bring those swords back to Saito, or at least get them away from Sukaku. He owed it to Saito to do what he could.
'Such tension…they must be really worried…' Motoko was almost choking from the tense air Ryuga and Anji were emanating. A small conversation wouldn't hurt to calm the atmosphere. "So, Ryuga-san, Anji-san, tell me more about Arcadia. Sounds like an amazing school."
Anji glanced back at Motoko while walking. "Compared to most other schools, it is. Arcadia is one of 5 schools that concentrate on powerful arts. It's been around for a ton of years and got a lot of attention. Because of its reputation, we tend to attract some of the strongest fighters to ever exist."
"The level of education is also very high. Of course, it's all tough work to pack in all of this knowledge under the time you spend in school. Only the dedicated and strong usually graduate. That's where we come in." Ryuga flashed a smirk.
"I suppose you two are very skilled then." Motoko felt a nearby presence. She nonchalantly glanced back, but saw nothing. According to Ryuga and Anji's expressions, she wasn't the only one who noticed. They were being followed. The two boys nodded at her, waiting for the chance to attack. After talking a few more steps, she acted. "NOW!" Brandishing her katana, the Ronin leaped at the attack, as did everyone else. The stalker was quickly surrounded and pinned against the wall. Motoko and the others were about to give the assailant hell when they noticed who it was.
"Geez guys, it's just me!" Imite pleaded, raising her hands defensively.
"What are you guys waiting for? Attack her!" Ryuga shouted, charging up for a magic attack.
"Shut up, Ryu-kun. We're not going to attack her." Anji huffed in annoyance, scratching his head. "Imite-san, what the hell are you doing here? We were seriously going to rip you a new one."
"I couldn't help it! You guys were going to a super secret area and I didn't want to be left out."
"Imite-san…" Motoko spoke up, "I understand how you feel, but Ibuki-sensei might need your help. Abandoning your post is very irresponsible."
"I know, but still…" Imite pouted.
"Motoko-chan is right, Imite-san. This isn't a playground. If the Water Pokémon were to attack again, everyone would need your help. Do you think it's fair to leave your teammates just for your own selfish gain?" Anji said seriously. Motoko raised her eyebrow at Anji, wondering when she gave him permission to call her –chan.
"Aww…"
Ryuga released a loud, tired sigh. "Now, now you two. Let's not be too hard on Enemy-san. We've all wanted that feeling of usefulness. Besides, she's a skilled ninja. I'm sure her skills will be a valuable addition to our forces." Gently pushing his allies aside, he extended an inviting hand to Imite. "Now, shall we proceed to saving our fellow classmates?"
"Ryu-kun…I…!" The teal haired ninja was rendered breathless by Ryuga's kindness, something she least expected. She saw Ryuga in a new light. With a smile, she grasped the mages hand. "Glad to that you can be a nice guy after all. Thanks, Ryu-kun."
"No, Enemy-san…" The mage's grip on Imite's hand tightened, his smile turning wicked, "Thank…YOU!" Without warning, Ryuga rapidly spun the young ninja several times before tossing her far ahead. Not missing a beat, he aimed his staff at the flying copycat. "WIND BLAST!"
WHOOSH!"
"AIYEEEE!" Imite was further propelled deep into the cavern before landing flat on her face. "Ow…my face…" While trying to get up, her hand seemed to have pressed down on a hidden switch. Looking up, her eyes widened as multiple spears were suddenly released, shooting at the girl. "EEEK!" She barely avoided getting impaled by sprinting into a run. Her foot tripped onto a wire trap, which set off a wall trap, where the wall would attempt to crush her. Luckily, she stepped back to avoid the crushing walls. Unfortunately, her foot landed onto another floor button. This time, the walls opened, revealing holes in the walls. Hundreds of poisons darts suddenly shot out at Imite, who barely escaped with her life by rolling on the ground. It didn't help that after avoiding that trap, she tripped a small wire that activated a pitfall trap. The girl almost met her fate to the spiked deathtrap, but managed to cling onto the wall with her kunai. "SOMEBODY HELP MEEEE!"
"But your being so useful, Enemy-san! We wouldn't want to get in your way, now do we?" Ryuga was enjoying this almost too much.
Motoko tossed Ryuga a shocked look. "Are you crazy!? You almost got her killed!"
"I know! Ain't I brilliant?"
"You're insane!"
Anji sweat-dropped fiercely. "…You scare me sometimes." He couldn't help but worry about Imite, who was moments from falling to her demise. "Uh…shouldn't we help her soon?"
Ryuga gave Anji a questioning look. "…Why?"
"Because she can die!"
"…And that bothers me, how?"
"Ryuga!"
"Alright, alright. Can't get away with anything nowadays. Sheesh!" Ryuga took several steps forward when…
Click…!
"Uh oh…" Ryuga looked down to see his foot pressing down on a switch. There was a moment of silence, everyone wondering what was going to happen. A sound from behind caught their attention. When they turned to see what it was, they paled in horror.
Water.
Lots and lots of water.
"RUN FOR IT!" The trio began sprinted ahead, trying to out run the rushing wave.
Several feet ahead, Imite finally managed to get out of the pit, panting for air. "That Ryuga…! Next time I see him, I'm going to…huh?" She looked up to see the said mage running at her, fear in his eyes. "What on earth is—"
"Beauty before age!" Ryuga jumped on Imite's head and bounced off, jumping across the pit. The girl was about to fall back into the pit when Anji caught her hand and jumped over the pit, as did Motoko. The wall ahead was still closed, trapping them. "Sorry about this!" With a toss, Anji sent the girl airborne. Raising his fist, it started glowing with a yellow hue. "HIYA!" With a slam, the walls were completely destroyed. He managed to catch Imite and threw her over his shoulder before dashing off.
"Anji-kun, drop the dead weight already! It's going to slow you down!" Ryuga warned.
"WHO ARE YOU CALLING DEAD WEIGHT!? AND I AM NOT AN 'IT'!" Imite bellowed, angered by her near fatal experience.
"This isn't the time for arguing! The wave is catching up!" Motoko chastised, glaring at the two.
Looking ahead, Anji grimaced at the sight. A steel gate was beginning to close many meters ahead. They were as good as dead if they didn't get past that door. He needed an idea, and quick. "Imite, I need your help! Here!" Quickly, the fighter tossed Imite a Pokéball, who was still hanging over his shoulder. "Ryu-kun, use Wind Blast, hurry!"
"Alright, here we go! WIND BLAST!" Ryuga shot a concentrated ball of wind towards Anji. The attacked lifted Anji and gave him a great boost in speed.
"Okay, Imite-san, now it's your turn. Use my Hariyama to hold open that gate! RAAH!" With a dynamic swing, Anji hurled the ninja girl very far away, bringing her close to the gate.
"Hariyama, hold open that gate for us!" With a toss, Imite summoned Anji's Hariyama, Hayate.
"Hayate holds gate while others reach safety." Lifting his huge hands, Hayate slowed the gate's progress. Unfortunately, the gate was heavier than expected and was still closing. "Hayate unable to hold up for long. Hayate needs more power."
"Power…where can I…ah yeah!" Taking out her Pokéball, Imite summoned her Ditto. "Duplica, copy Hayate and hold open that door."
"You got it! Transform!" The Ditto turned into an exact replica of Hayate, and with her help, successfully held the gate open.
The water was rushing fast, dangerously close to engulfing the remaining three people. Luckily, everyone managed to get past the gate and close it before the water got them. They collapsed on the ground, tired from the running. "That was way too close…!" Motoko groaned.
"I'll have to agree. I mean…all that sea water would've damaged my hair terribly!" Ryuga patted his hair, making sure it wasn't ruined.
Imite shot the mage a dark glare. "Sleep with one eye open, Ryuga! Next time I'll cut off your hair!"
Ryuga gasped with fright at the threat. "You wouldn't dare! I'll bury you before that happens."
"You two! That's eno—"
"Now, now, Motoko-chan, yelling and screaming won't solve this problem. At times like these, we have to be diplomatic. Hey, you two." Anji called out.
"WHAT!?" Ryuga and Imite yelled. They stopped once they noticed Anji flashing several photos at them. They gasped sharply at the pictures. "Those pictures…!"
"Exactly. Every embarrassing moment from the CPR moment to that little 'diversion' by the rocks has been properly documented thanks to Meizu-kun's efforts. Now, you may continue fighting and trying to kill each other. But I wonder…what would happen if these photos, for lack of a better example, were posted for everyone to see?" Their stunned silence was all the answer Anji needed. "Now that I have your attention, perhaps a diplomatic truce is in order."
"Diplomatic truce my ass! That's blackmail!" Ryuga yelled.
"That's not fair!" Imite frowned.
Watching these events, Motoko grew more and more afraid of the group she was stuck with. 'What have I gotten myself into…?' Glancing ahead, she noticed an opening. Whatever it was, it led to a big area. "Let's check out this area. Maybe Yuuki and Haruka are there."
Anji sat up, dusting off his shorts. "I agree. Prisoners don't normally last very long. We best hurry." Ryuga and Imite nodded, but still felt the sting from Anji's blackmail.
The area they entered was vastly different from the previous ones. Everything was made of solid ice. It was much bigger than the ordinary rooms, and the large stalagmites made it easy for them to be ambushed. Everyone had to keep their eyes on all directions while progressing. The last thing they wanted was to fall for another trap. The cold air bit at their skin. "Those two sure as hell better be here. It's freaking cold." Ryuga rubbed his arms in an attempt to warm himself up. He was surprised to see Anji not showing any signs of being cold, even though his only clothes were a sleeveless black shirt and a pair of shorts. "Anji-kun, how can you possibly like this weather?"
"Did you already forget? I'm from Aoi City, where we get these temperatures all the time."
"Ah yeah. I'm used to the warmer regions. But seriously, I don't know what you see in this frozen tundra."
"Warmer regions? Does that mean you're from Aka City? I hear summers are the worst." Imite wondered.
"If you must know, I hail from the most beautiful city on Gaetia, Midori City."
"Midori City? Wouldn't know much about it. I'm not from Gaetia."
Anji glanced at Imite, surprised. "Really? Where are you from then?"
"Kanto."
This got Ryuga's curiosity as well. "Kanto? That's incredibly far from Gaetia. What reason would you have for coming all that way?"
"Parents. They got a good deal and decided to move from Kanto. Simple as that."
"Hm, well that's convenient. Good for you." Anji said.
"Thanks!"
'Convenience, huh?' Ryuga couldn't help but question that. While he still despised Imite, he couldn't shake off the feeling of doubt. But for now, he decided to dismiss it. "In any case, just how big is this room? We've been walking for a good couple of minutes, and we haven't even touched the other half yet."
Motoko, who had been silent for a long time, almost felt as though she sensed a presence. What was it about this room that was making her nervous? What was also eerie was the low number of enemies faced. All together, they fought maybe a dozen Wartortles or less. It was as though this path was more based on traps than guards. If that was the case…this room could be the worst trap they've faced yet. Focusing ahead, the young samurai could see something on the other side of the icy room. Looking closely, it looked like a prison cell… "Over there! I see a prison!"
"A prison?" Looking in the same direction, Anji saw what Motoko was referring to. It was built into the other side, dark and dank. Inside, two people could be seen lying on the floor. "Ryuga, it's them!"
"Let's do it! Hurry!" Without a second to spare, Anji and Ryuga sprinted ahead to the cell, closely followed by Motoko and Imite. Right before reaching the iced prison, Ryuga lifted his staff to help clear the way. "FIRE BURST!" A huge fireball was launched at the bars, incinerating them. Inside, Ryuga and Anji made their priority to check on Yuuki first while Motoko and Imite tended to Haruka.
Waking up, Yuuki glared at Anji and Ryuga. "You two again. Why can't you—"
WHAM!
"Ack!" Yuuki doubled over in pain, getting a punch in the stomach from Anji.
"That's for putting us through all the crap to look for you! Now you will stay still, shut up and let us work on you!" Anji chastised fiercely.
Yuuki struggled to get up, weakened from the punch. "Feh…like I'm going to listen to—"
SMACK!
This time, Ryuga slammed him in the back of the neck with his staff, knocking him unconscious. "That's for making me have to put up with Enemy-san AND making me ruin my hair! Do you know how expensive good shampoo is!?"
"Ryu-kun, you just totally killed the moment…" Anji sweat-dropped.
The girls witnessed this with shocked expressions, especially Haruka. Motoko gripped her sword defensively while Imite was almost ready to stop them. "What the hell are you two doing!? We're supposed to be rescuing them, not killing them!"
Ryuga tossed the girls a serious glance, so dark that it seemed way too uncharacteristic for the mage. "This is far more important than you can imagine. If we don't do this, he WILL die. Now tend to Haruka-san. We got this one." His glance softened when he met Haruka's worried eyes. "Even you noticed something is wrong with him. Don't worry, me and Anji-kun will make sure that he's alright." He nodded at Haruka, giving her reassurance.
"Thank goodness…" Haruka mouthed with a sigh, smiling at the idea that the boy was going to be fine.
"So cute…!" Ryuga felt compelled to hug the muted woman. That was, until he saw the 'Don't you dare' look from Anji. Ryuga immediately went to work. He began by laying Yuuki on his back and removing his top article of clothing. He looked back to see the questionable looks on the girl's faces. "We're not doing anything gay to him, so don't even think about it." Turning his attention back to Yuuki, he grimaced at the sight. His entire body almost turned completely pitch black. Ryuga closed his eyes and made a praying motion with one hand while performing several hand symbols with the other. As he did this, his body was beginning to be outlined with a bright blue light
Anji backed away as a blue symbol appeared on the ground and expanded enough so it enveloped Ryuga and Yuuki. Gently, Ryuga placed his hand on Yuuki's chest. As he did, the blackness that was enveloping Yuuki began to swirl and get sucked into Ryuga's palm. After it was absorbed, Ryuga lifted his hand, carrying what looked like a black sphere the size of a marble. Carefully, Ryuga placed his other hand on Yuuki's chest, and after a moment, pulled out a red sphere of similar shape. He began chanting several verses that was alien to native languages. At this time, Anji quickly rushed behind Ryuga and placed a hand on his back, channeling his energy.
"What…what is this sorcery?" Motoko questioned, left in awe at the mysticism before her.
"Right now, Ryuga is trying to fuse that red sphere with the black one. I am helping him control that energy. Now please, this part is crucial and very delicate. Remain silent." Anji warned, sending his chi into Ryuga. Suddenly, the two spheres began spinning around and getting closer. This continued until the red orb and black orb touched. The room was enveloped in a blinding light, forcing the girls to shield their eyes. The light soon faded, as did the symbol on the ground and around Ryuga.
"Done. He should be fine now." With a sigh, Ryuga stood up, but ended up stumbling.
"Don't push it. Here." Reaching into his pockets, Anji pulled out a small pill and gave it to Ryuga. Ryuga gladly swallowed it.
"Wait…was that a soldier pill?" Imite asked.
"Soldier pill?" Motoko echoed.
"Yeah, it was. It recovers fatigue and helps keep the energy up. It normally last a few days unless the user manages to deplete that extra energy. In either case, let's get out of here." Anji turned to leave, but his eyes caught something that alarmed him greatly. "Let's leave, now! Hurry!" Unsure but worried, everyone listened to Anji's advice. They noticed it as soon as they began darting for the exit.
The doorway was being sealed up with ice.
Ryuga and Imite managed to jump through the closing exit, but Motoko and Anji were not so fortunate since they were carrying Haruka and Yuuki. "ANJI-KUN! MOTOKO-SAN!" Ryuga and Imite began banging on the ice door.
"We're okay over here. I'll need some time, but I can probably break the door down. Keep your eyes open!" Anji shouted from the other side.
"We'll get you out! Don't worry!" Both Ryuga and Imite prepared fire attacks to melt the door.
"I wouldn't be so hasty if I were you!"
"…Damn." Both Ryuga and Imite cursed, peeking at the intruder behind them.
"Bwahahaha! I got ya nice n' cornered! Just da way me likes it!" Kurosaki clamped his pincers with excitement. "Alright boys! It's a time fo' fightin'!" Behind the stalagmites, dozens of Wartortles with armor and weapons appeared, ready to battle.
"This isn't good…even with out Pokémon they got us outnumbered 10 to 1!" Imite brandished her ninja sword, sweating nervously.
Ryuga wasn't so daunted. "Then it's a fair fight." Twirling his staff expertly, Ryuga was prepared for battle.
"Do you have a plan?"
"…Nope."
"Ack!" Imite almost fell over, astonished, "Then why the hell are you so calm!?"
"It's simple." Ryuga grinned wickedly, "Because now I got a battle worthy of my powers. If you want to run, be my guest."
'Is he trying to psyche that Crawduant out, or is he actually serious…?' Whatever it was, Imite had no idea what was going through the mages head. Nonetheless, she was going to be in for a rough fight. "Heh…you're one crazy mage." A smirk soon graced her features, gaining more and more confidence. "…I guess I'm crazy for wanting to fight this one with you."
"A temporary truce until we get out of this. Don't get in my way."
"That's my line."
"Enough talkin' for yas'! It's killin' time!" Kurosaki, along with the small army of Wartortles, charged at the two arcadian students.
With the last group, Satoshi, Kasumi and Raigeki ran into what could only be described as a legion of Water Pokémon. There were hundreds of Water Pokémon swarming the expansive terrain, all aimed at taking Satoshi and his friends down. Satoshi couldn't count the number of times they ran into a trap or a large group of enemies. The path taken was not only the most dangerous, but the longest one. An hour of searching had passed, yet there was no end in sight.
Sometime down the corridor, Satoshi started frantically looking for a spot to rest. With endless enemies swarming at them, the group had no choice but to take a break. Both Satoshi and Kasumi were nearing their limit of stamina, as where their Pokémon. Luckily, he was able to spot a room nearby by and immediately took it. Like many of the rooms, it was dark and damp. This particular room, however, was apparently a weapon storage room. Crates of tridents, shields, swords, and other materials of warfare were set up. Everyone hid behind the crates to avoid detection. Little footsteps could be heard passing by.
"The humans ran this way!"
"Don't let them escape!"
"Hurry! Don't lose them!"
"Don't let them near Sukaku's chambers!" Several other voices could be heard outside the storage room. Fortunately, no one seemed to consider the storage room, so Satoshi and Kasumi were safe for the moment.
"Phew! I can't believe what bad luck we're having!" Satoshi sank to the floor, thoroughly worn out.
"With all the zapping I've been doing, I'm just about zapped-out." Falling on his back, Raigeki started gasping for air.
Kasumi knelt by the corner of the wall of crates, making sure no one was coming. "At least we can take a break here." Sitting down, everyone began tending to any wounds they had. Luckily, they had first-aid materials in their pockets to work on the minor wounds, which consisted of small gashes and cuts. With the ongoing dangers, the last thing anyone wanted was to run in unprepared.
10 minutes went by, and the feeling was all too tense. Worry and anxiety corrupted the air. Kasumi gave a fleeting glance at Satoshi, seeing his serious face. It was clear he was nowhere near giving up. But there was also worry about Yuuki and Haruka in his eyes. So much has happened so fast that no one has been able to sit down and think. 'Maybe I should say something…' She took a deep breath to speak.
"Hey, Kasumi…"
Well, so much for her speaking. "What is it, Satoshi?"
"There's something that's been bothering me. It's about Yuuki. To be honest, I don't think we've really met him that time in the cavern."
"Well, while I'll admit he wasn't himself, I don't think we can go as far as to say that wasn't him. Are you saying it was an illusion or something?"
Satoshi shook his head. "That's not what I mean. Even if you change in one way or another, your actions, mannerisms, and movements usually stay with you. Yuuki seemed completely different. So, I'm wondering if that was still Yuuki, or…"
"...Shiroku…" That would explain a lot of things. Everything from the violent behavior to his dark tone all pointed to Yuuki's split personality. But there was a problem with Satoshi's theory. "When we met him in the cave, he told us that he wasn't Shiroku. It wouldn't make sense for him to lie."
"…It wouldn't make sense to us, true. But I get the feeling that it wasn't really Yuuki we were talking to, whether it be because his mind was out of it or not. Either way, he sounded really desperate for whatever it was."
That rang a bell in Kasumi's head, remembering a past quote from Yuuki/Shiroku.
"This is only justified punishment. What I'm searching for is the power I need. Power to crush Saito, to kill my enemies and protect Haruka from people like you…"
'Justified punishment…power to kill Saito and protect Haruka…' Kasumi considered if those words came from Shiroku rather than Yuuki. Normally, she wouldn't had believed that with Shiroku's declaration to kill her. But then again, when he had the perfect chance to that time in the forest, he couldn't do it. That led to another mystery… "What if…Shiroku cared for Haruka too?"
"That's what I was thinking!" Satoshi beamed, "What if because of what Shiroku saw, he kinda snapped and…you know…" The last thing Satoshi wanted to do was recall the bloodbath he had yet to erase from his mind.
Kasumi sighed at this. "But let's not get ahead of ourselves. All of this is just speculation. We won't know anything until we confront him again."
"I agree." Satoshi stood up, his determination and stamina making a full recovery. "We can't just sit around waiting for these answers! We have to find those two, and fast! Let's do it, Kasumi!"
"I was hoping you would say that. Let's hurry!" With their newfound strength, Satoshi, Kasumi and Raigeki left the storage room to continue down the cave. But a few feet forward, and they discovered something odd.
A large, blue gate was blocking the way.
Satoshi blinked a couple of times, trying to recap on what just happened. "So…in other words…we were already at the end?"
"...Oh…yeah…I think I forgot to mention that we were right by this room…hehehe…" Raigeki laughed nervously.
"YOU MEAN YOU KNEW!? WHY DIDN'T YOU TELL US SOONER!?" Satoshi yelled, irritated.
"Uh…Satoshi?" Kasumi called worriedly.
"Hey, it's not my fault! I was hoping you two would do something being trapped like that."
"Would you stop thinking about that kind of stuff just once!? Lives are in danger here!"
"Um…Satoshi…!?"
"I can't help it if you're slow!"
"How about I help my foot up your—"
"SATOSHI!" Kasumi screamed, scaring the two out of their argument.
"Kasumi, why are you…yelling…?" Satoshi saw Kasumi pointing a large, angry, and worst of all, VERY familiar Pokémon. He gasped with surprise, as did Raigeki. "It's…It's Mid-boss!"
'Mid-boss' grinned sinisterly. "In the fles—wait a second, I'm not a mid-boss! I'm Hozaru, dammit!"
I'll admit that this chapter didn't take as long as I thought it would. I just didn't have the time. Hopefully you enjoy this entry and prepare yourselves for an action-packed chapter. Be sure to drop a review and keep life easy.