A Trainer Journeys In Grace

by Terraspace81

In the Pokemon world lived a lonely boy named William. He had no friends or family, and only his first Pokemon Mudkip was with him. Then one day he found his way to Ephinea and he met Asbel Lhant. Soon the two of them became best friends, but when dark forces from the past and ancient secrets return to Ephinea can William and Asbel be able to save it or will it be lost.

7. Chapter 7

Sorry for the late post. It's midterms for me up here. I was figuring out how I wanted this chapter to go. Originally it was going to be two separate chapters but I decided to just combine them since this chapter was originally too short for it to be good. And I have been getting ready for the Crown Tundra, and for a new story that I will announce on my next chapter of The Legend Of Korra And The Forgotten Trainers, so you know I'm super busy. Now here's chapter 7.

Chapter 7

The War Path

After walking for some time Richard fell to his knees. "Richard!" William said as he and Asbel rushed to Richard's side. "Richard, what's wrong?" Asbel asked Richard. "Nothing. I'm fine." Richard said to Asbel and William. "You just falling is not a sign that you're fine." William said to Richard. "We've been walking for a while. Do you want to rest?" Asbel asked Richard. "I don't want to slow everyone down." Richard said to everyone. "It takes longer for us to drag you if you faint then it is for us to take a break." William said to Richard.

"Yeah if you feel all wobbly, you shouldn't push it. We don't mind taking a little break. Right, Sophie?" Pascal said to Richard and asked Sophie. Sophie didn't say anything, she just placed a hand on her chest. "Sophie?" Pascal asked Sophie. Again Sophie didn't say anything, and just walked to Richard, Asbel, and William. Sophie tried to help Richard up, but he just got up and slapped her hand away. "Stay back!" Richard said as he backed away from Sophie a little.

"Richard?" Asbel asked Richard. "What's wrong with you?" William asked Richard. "I… I'm sorry. You startled me…" Richard said to Sophie. "Aw, don't worry, Sophie! He's just kinda shy. He probably just has a thing for you or whatever, 'cause he got all worked up when you touched him." Pascal said to Sophie. "Now that you mention that. The same thing happened before we met Pascal." William said rubbing his chin. "Wait. Ohmigosh, that means he's my RIVAL!" Pascal said to William. "Rival in what? The person Sophie wants to touch less?" William asked Pascal.

"Sophie, you can't like him, too! You just said you liked Asbel the best! You can't keep changing your mind like this!" Pascal said to Sophie, waving her hands in the air and stomping her feet. "What's gotten into you two?" Asbel asked Richard and Sophie. "Asbel, Sophie, William, I'm sorry. Please forgive me. I think… I'm just very tired." Richard said to them. "After everything that's happened today. We understand." William said to Richard. "Richard… Are we friends?" Sophie asked Richard.

"Yes, Sophie, of course we are." Richard said to Sophie. "Friends…" Sophie said to everyone. 'Then why…' Sophie taught as William started to snap his fingers. "Sophie, you okay?" William asked Sophie. "I'm fine." Sophie said to William. "Let's keep going." Richard said to everyone. Then everyone started to walk again.

Soon everyone made it to a city that had a wall twices the size of it's buildings around it, front and water on it's back standing guard were two soldiers. "A state of emergency is in effect! None are allowed inside the city without explicit permission!" One of the guards said to the group, as the group entered the city. "W-wait… He's… Prince Richard!" The other guard said to the first guard. Richard nodded his head yes.

"Please forgive me, Your Highness! We shall inform the duke of your arrival at once!" The first guard said to Richard before one of the guards left. "Richard's a prince? That's awesome!" Pascal said to Richard. (Thats. Cool.) Elgyem said to Richard. "If Richard is a prince, then what is Asbel?" Sophie asked everyone. "I'm…" Asbel said but soon stopped. "I don't know. I don't know what I am now." Asbel said as he looked at the sky and away from everyone. "You're our friend and a good man, that's more than enough." William said to Asbel. "Thanks William." Asbel said as the guard came back to the group.

"I apologize for making you wait. You are all free to pass." The other guard said to the group. "Thank you. Is Dalen at his manor?" Richard asked the guards. "He is. Your Highness." the other guard said to Richard. "All right, Asbel, William. Let's find Duke Dalen and see if he can shed some light on our current situation." Richard said to Asbel and William. "Agree. Which way is Dalen's manor?" William asked everyone. "That way." Richard said as he led them to the manor.

A few minutes later they entered the manor. "Your Highness!" A voice said to the group. "Dalen!" Richard said as everyone turned to see an elderly man with tan skin, light grey hair, and a grey pointy beard, wearing a monetical, a blue suit, grey pants, and black boat, coming at us. The man then kneeled in front of Richard. "Ah, your highness! It does me well to see you safe. I thought you were still in Barona, and was even now preparing my troops for a rescue mission." Dalen said to Richard.

"I'm sorry to have worried you. But I will put your troops to good use in the coming days. I intend to defeat Uncle Cedric and avenge my father's death. I pray you will support me in this, Dalen." Richard said to Dalen. "All that I call mine is yours to command, my lord." Dalen said to Richard. "Now please, rise. Let me introduce you to my friends." Richard said to Dalen, making Dalen rise.

"This is Asbel. It is by his hand that I was able to escape the capital. And this is William, he was one who organized us with these creatures called Pokemon, that protected us on the way here. And this is Sophie and Pascal. Both have been a great help to me as well. The Pokemon next to me is Skarmory, the one next to Asbel is Yamper, the one next to William is Swampert, the one next to Sophie is Golett, and the one next to Pascal is Elgyem." Richard said to Dalen introducing everyone to Dalen.

"It's a pleasure to meet you." William said to Dalen. "I am Asbel Lhant. It's an honor to meet you, sir." Asbel said to Dalen. "Asbel Lhant… Of the family Lhant?" Dalen asked Asbel. "Yes, sir. I am the eldest son of the late Lord Aston." Asbel said to Dalen. "I see. Well, you have my eternal thanks for saving His Highness." Dalen said to Asbel.

"I could do no less, sir. I consider it my duty." Asbel said to Dalen. "These are indeed strange times for Lhant. It seems Strahta has seized de facto control of the area." Dalen said to Asbel. "Yeah we kinda figured that out the hard way." William said to Dalen.

"Can you tell us the current situation, both in Lhant and elsewhere? We need to plan our next move." Richard asked Dalen. "Of course, this way, please." Dalen said to everyone, before leading them to his office.

Once everyone got to Dalen's office Richard took the chair by Dalen's deck with Dalen, Asbel, and William standing on the other corners of the desk. With Sophie and Pascal looking around the office. And the Pokemon were taking a nap in a corner of the office. "Archduke Cedric currently holds power over Barona and the surrounding areas." Dalen said as he showed Richard, Asbel, and William a map of the region.

"The Strahtan Military, however, appears to be acting independently. They seem to have occupied Lhant of their own accord. This has allowed the cryas mines near Lhant to come under their control." Dalen said to everyone pointing to the area Lhant is in.

"Sounds like a problem." William said to everyone. "It is a problem. With Strahta control of Lhant. It gives them the Power to cut off Windor's supply of cryas." Richard said to everyone. "It does indeed, if the situation is prolonged, this could become a very serious problem." Dalen said to everyone. "I also heard something about an alliance between Windor and Strahta." Richard asked Dalen. "Yes, Archduke Cedric has maintained close ties with Strahta for some time now." Dalen

"Cedric probably used Lhant as a bargaining chip. He probably told the Strahtan's that the king gave them Lhant and its resources, making it enemy territory, preventing Richard and his father from fleeing there if they managed to escape him." William said to everyone. "That sounds about right. He most likely gave them Lhant in exchange for turning a blind eye to his treachery. Or, perhaps, for their outright cooperation." Richard said to William. "Given who their leader is, I vote cooperation." William said to Richard, but this made Asbel flinch.

"I'm sorry, Asbel. That can't be easy for you to hear." Richard said as they noticed Asbel hadn't said a word this entire time. Asbel just shook his head. "Asbel Lhant, William, the prince and I must now engage in very sensitive discussions. I would ask that, the two of you to please take your leave." Dalen said to Asbel and William. "W-wait! You must allow me to help you take back Barona." Asbel said to Dalen. "You can't just cut us out because we're not a Richard." William said to Dalen.

"I want to help His Highness however I can!" Asbel said bowing to Dalen. "And we are his friends, we care about him." William said bowing to Dalen himself. "I would ask this as well, Dalen. I need Asbel and William." Richard said to Dalen, as Asbel and William finished bowing. "Very well. If that is your wish." Dalen said to Richard quickly, giving him a bow. "Thank you, Dalen." Richard said to Dalen.

"Dalen, can you tell us what our situation is?" William asked Dalen. "Yes. There is but one road to the capital, and it leads through Wallbridge. The Archduke, perhaps anticipating an attack, has garrisoned a large number of troops there." Dalen said, pointing out the route.

"A direct attack on Wallbridge would be suicide." Richard said to everyone. "There's got to be a way to take that bridge." William said as he looked at the map. "If we can't go through the front, howzabout just poof right into the middle?" Pascal said as she walked to the desk. "Hey, that's right! There's a second device in the ruins!" Asbel said to Pascal.

"I see. So we could send someone to infiltrate Wallbridge and open the main gates." Richard said to Pascal. Pascal then snapped her finger and gave everyone a wide smile. "Pascal you're a genius or you're a mad woman. I haven't decided yet." William said to Pascal.

"Is that possible? If so, it would put us at a distinct advantage." Dalen said to Pascal, as she started to glow with pride. "Allow me to infiltrate the fortress, Your Highness." Asbel said to Richard. "Asbel!" William said to Asbel. "I will carry out this mission without fail!" Asbel said to Richard. "Pascal? Will you come and help me with the devices?" Asbel asked Pascal. "Y'okay! Can I take Elgyem with me?" Pascal asked Asbel. "Sure." Asbel said to Pascal.

"Me and Skarmory will go as well. I fight this battle for my late father. If I am to avenge him, let it be with my own hands. And having a strong partner like Skarmory. My uncle won't see us coming." Richard said to Asbel. "Your Highness…" Dalen said to Richard. "Enough. I'm going. Now let's gather the commanders and plan the rest of our strategy." Richard said to Dalen. "Yes, sir!" Dalen said before leaving.

"Well if we're going on this crazy mission, we better start practicing." William said to everyone. "You're coming with us?" Richard asked William. "Of course. What kind of friend would I be if I let all of you go into a dangerous fortress without me. A bad friend. But still a friend." William said to everyone.

"William it would be safer for you to be here." Asbel said to William. "Excuse me, but anyone here with the help of their Pokemon has defeated an entire squad of troops before, raise your hand." William said to Asbel, before he raised his hand, and just him. "That's what I thought, so let's start practicing." William said as they woke up the Pokemon and left the office.

Later that night after a long strategy meeting, and a few hours of training everyone was past out in the room Dalen gave them. Well almost everyone. Richard was outside, looking at the water, as he did that Asbel and William came out, and noticed Richard, soon they started to walk towards Richard. As they moved closer to Richard Sophie appeared in the shadow and watched them.

"Should our future king really be out here all alone." William said to Richard, as he and Asbel stood next to Richard. "I'm not alone. I have you two." Richard said to William. "So we strike tomorrow. Things are really moving fast." Asbel said to Richard and William. "Well in Cedric lust to get the throne he might have doomed the country. So we need to act fast before Cedric does even more damage." William said to Asbel.

"Asbel, William, I'm sorry. I don't want to drag either of you into this. My uncle has many of the knights on his side, some of them Asbel knows." Richard said to them. "I'm sorry Asbel." William said to Asbel. "Don't worry. I knew that the moment I joined up with Richard. I am Richard's sword and I will sevier him well." Asbel said to everyone. "The same goes for my spear. It's yours to command as well Richard." William said to Richard. "Thank you, my friends." Richard said to everyone, before turning to the water.

"I would never say this to anyone else, but… I have no desire to fight a war. I wish there was another choice." Richard said to everyone. "Richard in the past seven years I learned that sometimes you have to fight, to stop bad people from destroying our home." William said to Richard. "The faster we finish this war, the sooner peace will be restored to our land. I'll do whatever I can to make that happen." Asbel said to Richard. "Count me in, I'll do whatever I can." William said to Richard.

"Thank you both. Now come, Asbel and William. We have a battle to win!" Richard said to Willia m and Asbel. "And we will!" Asbel said to Richard. "They won't know what hit them." William said to Richard

'I can't stop looking at Richard… I get nervous when I see him with Asbel and William. But… Asbel, William, and Richard are friends... So why am I feeling worried?' Sophie thought as she looked at Asbel, William, and Richard. Soon they all went to bed.

The next morning Richard stood in front of a small army with Dalen on his right side, and Skarmory on his left, and behind the army was everyone else and Swampert was back in his Pokeball.

"Brave warriors of Windor! Today we march for the capital under the command of His Highness, Prince Richard!" Dalen said to the army. "Your Highness? My men await word, Sire." Dalen said to Richard. Richard nodded and took a few steps forward, with Skarmory.

"Men of Windor! Today we strike a blow for justice! I expect great things from you. May the wind of the Green Serpent guide our blades!" Richard said to the army as he raised his blade. "May the wind of the Green Serpent guide our blades!" The army said as they saluted Richard. "All men, Move out!" Richard said to the army. "Hoorah!" The army yelled, before they started to leave.

(Do you think we have enough people to make this work?) Yamper asked Skarmory as everyone met up with Richard, Dalen, and Skarmory. (It all depends on us.) Skarmory said to Yamper. (Hah, no pressure.) Yameper said. "It's time for us to infiltrate Wallbridge." Richard said to everyone.

"Please take good care of His Highness, Asbel Lhant, and William." Dalen said to Asbel and William. "Sir! Understood." Asbel and William said to Dalen. "Let's return to the ruins. We will be able to access the fortress from within." Richard said to everyone. "Not more teleporters." William said as they started to move to the ruins.

After walking for a bit, they made it to the ruins and went through the entrance teleporter. Then after William threw up for a minute they made their way to the teleporter that led to the middle of Wallbridge. "Before we enter Wallbridge, let's go over the plan one more time. Wallbridge is divided into northern and southern sections, each with a bridge that operates independently. Our ultimate goal is to lower the south bridge and open the gate there. However, if we can raise the north bridge, it will cut off my uncle's reinforcements. I'd like to deal with both Bridges while we're there." Richard said to everyone.

Everyone then nodded yes. Once we're inside, our first priority will be to raise the north bridge. After my uncle's forces are cut off, we'll proceed to lower the south bridge." Richard said to everyone. "And remember this is a steal mission, stick to the shadows and stay out of sight, and we must be quick. Once we raise the northern bridge the forces in the fortress will know some things up." William said to everyone.

"Understood, now Pascal, if you would be so kind as to activate the device." Richard said to William and Pascal. "Sure! I'll just give it the ol' chunk chunk and then bam! Easy peasy, nice'n breezy." Pascal said before she started to work. "Ok Froslass come on out." William said as he let a white spirit with a purple head with a white mask over it, two ice chunks on it's head, and it's to arms started on the sides of it's mask, the arms had three fingers and teal fins on the end, a patch of teal on the back of its head, and a red strap with a red bow on its body.

"William who is this?" Sophie asked William, as Asbel opened the book. "This is Froslass, she was a Pokemon that Swampert and me saved when we visited the northern reaches of our home land." William said to Sophie. "Here it is." Asbel said as he showen everyone the book.

Froslass

The Snow Land Pokemon

A Ice / Ghost Type Pokemon

Legends in snowy regions say that a woman who was lost on an icy mountain was reborn as Froslass.

"Why are you using that Pokemon?" Pascal asked Willam, as she finished working with the teleporter and as Asbel put the book away. "Simple half of my Pokemon are too big to sneak around a fortress and out of the other half, Magcargo is too slow to move, Crawdaunt is a little faster then Magcargo but the enemy will hear his footsteps. But Froslass floats so she can move quietly and she can freeze anyone that spots us. (I will serve you all as well as I serve William and Swampert.) Froslass said to everyone as she bowed to them. "Ok everyone let's go." Richard said as they all walked through the teleporter.

The teleporter landed them in a knight's armory, and while Richard and Asbel grabbed their weapons expecting a fight, William ran to the rack of helmets, grabbed one, and then threw up in it. "Are we inside Wallbridge?" Asbel asked Richard, as Froslass rubbed Williams back. "Yes, and we're likely surrounded by my uncle's men, so should move with purpose. Let's make for the mechanism that controls the north bridge." Richard said to everyone. "Just... give me… a… second…" William said as he finished throwing up.

Soon everyone started to move and with the help of Froslass freezing a few of the guards, they were able to make it to the north bridge controls with no problem. "Sweet! The north bridge is up!" Pascal said after they flipped a lever raising the north bridge. "So far, so good. Now we just have to activate the south bridge." Asbel said to everyone. "Easier said than done, by now they found the guys Froslass froze and noticed the north bridge going up. It won't be long before they find us." William said to everyone.

"Then we have to move fast. We have to open the gate next. But the control room for the gate is locked and the key is in the central tower. Let's go there first." Richard said to everyone. "Ok but first Froslass used Frost Breath and then Ice Beam to freeze this lever." William said to Froslass. (As you commanded.) Froslass said as she blew a breath of frost over the lever, and then connected two light blue beams from the ice on top of her head and fired a cold beam at the lever. Then the lever was completely frozen.

"There, now no one can lower the north bridge while we're gone. Nice work Froslass." William said to everyone. (Your welcome.) Froslass said to William. "But we'll need to lower the north bridge to continue." Richard said to William. "I'll have Magcargo thaw it out later. Now let's go find that key to the central tower." William said to everyone, as they left the room.

A few minutes later after dealing with a few knights before they could sound the alarm. They made it to the central tower. After a minute of looking around Richard found the key, mounted on the wall. "Look. The key. Once we have this." Richard said as he walked to the key.

"Someone's here." Sophie said to everyone, as Richard gabbed the key. "What?" Asbel said as William got his weapon ready. "Richard look out!" William said as a knight came down from the second floor, with his sword drawn. "Richard!" Asbel and William said as the knight's sword slashed across Richard's chest.

Richard then made a cry of pain and fell to the ground. "RICHARD!" Asbel and William yelled. "Oh no!" Pascal said as a worried look appeared on her, Sophie, and Froslass faces. (Richard.) Yamper said as he hid behind Asbel. Elgyem and Golett didn't look or act any differently. But William and Skarmory had angry looks on their faces, and growled softly.

"I did it. I did it. I killed the prince!" the knight said before he started to leave. (Where do you think you're going? Metal Claw!) Skarmory said before the claws on her talons glowed sliver.

Skarmory then grabbed the knight by his shoulder and dug into his armor with her Metal Claw. Skarmory then flew up for a bite before she threw the knight onto the table in the middle of the room. Before the knight had a chance to get up, William got on top of him and had his spear pointed at the knights neck. "Please don't kill me." The Knight said to William begging for his life.

"And why shouldn't I kill you side with a man who murdered his brother for power, and killed the rightful heir to the throne. You are a traitor. And you deserve a traitor's death." William said to the knight getting ready to slam his spear into the knights neck.

"William, wait!" Asbel to William, as Asbel ran to Richards' side, making William stop. "C'mon, just hang in there." Asbel said as he shocked Richard. 'Stay with us!' Asbel thought as he looked at Richard. Suddenly something pulsed out of Richard. "Uh?" Asbel said as he noticed it. Then Richard started to twitch, this started to scare everyone. But then Richard started to get up. "Richard?" Asbel asked as Richard turned to William and the knight with a dark look in his eyes.

"You filth!" Richard said to the knight. As he said that Sophie got really worried and scared. "Richard?" Sophie asked Richard, as Richard got onto the table. RIchard then moved William out of the way, and stomped on the knight's neck. "How dare you.." Richard said as he drew his sword.

"You filthy Scum!" Richard said as he attacked the knights. This made Pascal cover Sophie's eyes and closed one of hers, and made the Pokemon look away. But William and Asbel couldn't look away. The only difference was that Asbel and a look of shock on his face, while William had no expedition on his.

"You'll pay for what you did to me. You'll suffer like no other!" Richard said before he started to attack the knight wildly. "Richard, stop! That's enough!" Asbel said to Richard. "It's not enough. It'll never be enough! It's nothing compared to the pain that we feel!" Richard said to Asbel, as he continued to attack. "We?" William said as the haze of rage left him. "No Richard! Stop it right now!" Asbel said to Richard, as William dropped his spear and rushed to Richard's side. "Richard, it's over, the knight is dead. Now stop it." William said as he grabbed Richard's arm with the sword in it.

"How dare you order me!" Richard said to William and Asbel. "Richard..." Asbel said, as William slapped Richard. "Snap out of it." William said to Richard. Then Richard started to calm down. "What… Wait… I'm sorry, Asbel, William, I didn't… I didn't mean to say that…" Richard said to William and Asbel. "Hey I get it. I was angry that this knight hurt you too. We say a lot of things we don't mean in anger." William said to Ricahrd as he let Richard go.

"Aaaah!" Richard said as he grabbed his chest and leaned forward. Lucky William was about to catch him. "Are you okay? Is it your chest?" Asbel asked Richard, as William helped Richard off the table. "It'll be okay. Let's just hurry to the south bridge. We have the key now." Richard said to everyone. "I agree, it would be dangerous to stay here any longer." William said to everyone. "Yeah Okay, but… What about Richards' wound?" Asbel asked Richard and William.

"I'm alright. He barely struck me. It's nothing to worry about." Richard said as he got off William. "Nothing? But I saw how deep it was." Asbel said as everyone walked to Richards' side. "Are you sure, cause it looks like it's just a scratch to me." William said as he took a close look at Richard's chest. "Their right! Richard actually looks just fine." Pascal said to Asbel, after she took a look at Richard's chest.

'He was bleeding like crazy…' Asbel thought as Richard sheathed his sword and William picked up his spear. "All right. That's enough Asbel, open the gate already." Richard said to Asbel. "R-Right! Got it." Asbel said to Richard. "Would it hurt to say please." William said as they made their way to the gate controls.

After some time of walking with everyone still a little shocked by the event that happened earlier, they opened the gate and found the lever to the south bridge in a room on the top of the south of the fortress. "All right. The south bridge is down." Asbel said as they flipped the lever of the south bridge. "Ok Froslass you know what to do." William said to Froslass. (Okay) Froslass said as she froze the lever.

Meanwhile outside. Once the bridge was lowered the gate to Wallbridge opened and Dalen's troops charged into Wallbridge.

"I hear people cheering. I think we did it!" Pascal said to everyone. (We. Did. it.) Elgyem said to everyone as he flashed a few of his lights. "Our work is done. The soldiers can handle things from this point forward." Richard said to everyone. "Right…" Asbel said to Richard. "Ok let's go everyone." William said as they all left the room.

Once they walked outside something went flying past them. "Aah! What was that?!" Pascal said as she froze with surprise. As Pascal did that everyone watched the thing flying with surprise looks on their faces. "Was that a sword?" William asked everyone, as the thing disappeared. "I know that blade…" Asbel said to William. "You do?" William asked Asbel.

"I thought I taught you to maintain your guard until the battle is finished." A voice above them said to everyone. Everyone then looked up to see a man jump from the roof above them. The man then landed in front of them, revealing it to be Malik.

"Captain Malik!" Asbel said as everyone saw a few knights coming at them, and drew their weapons. "Using a small team to infiltrate the fortress and open the gate was an excellent strategy. But your endgame was weak. If I defeat you here. The tide of battle turns to me. Wouldn't you agree, Your Highness?" Malik said to the group.

"You would threaten me, even knowing who I am?" Richard asked Malik. "You're so confident you can beat us with just a handful of knights." William said to Malik. "I am." Malik said to William. "Hey Asbel, who is this guy?" William asked Asbel. "He's captina Malik. A knight captain and my mentor. He taught me everything I know, William." Asbel said to William.

"William? Ah you must be that friend Asbel lost." Malik said to William. "I am. And if your Asbel mentor then, why do you side with a man who killed his own brother to get the throne?" William asked Malik. "The knights have sided with the new king, thus this is my job." Malik said to William.

"So you choose loyalty to the throne rather than the person who sits in it." William said to Malik. "I've sworn to defend Prince Richard against all who oppose him… Even you, Captain." Asbel said to Malik. "So be it, Asbel. Grant me no quarter, for you shall receive none!" Malik said to Asbel as he drew his sword.

"Ok then end this fast Froslass use Frost Breath." William said to Froslass. (As you wish.) Froslass said before blowing a large breath of frost at Malik and the knights behind him. And while the knights behind Malik felt something, Malik was unaffected by the by Froslass's breath. "The cold doesn't bother me." Malik said before he charged at the group and started to swing his sword. Asbel and William then blocked Malik's attack. Then Malik, Asbel, and William, started to attack each other, blocking and countering each other, leaving everyone else to handle the other knights

"Elgyem helped me with Astonish." Pascal said to Elygem as she amended her staff at one of the knights. (Okay.) Elgyem said as he got right in front of the knight Pascal was pointing at. "What's this thing?" the knight in front of Elgyem said as he looked at Elgyem. (AAAAAAH!) Elgyem yelled, as his head tripled in size and had a shadow on his face. "AAAH!" The knight yelled making the knight drop his weapons and fell to the ground. At that moment Pascal took her shots and knocked the knight out.

"Golett help, me with Shadow Punch." Sophie said to Golett, as she punched the other knight, but the knight's shield was blocking her punches. Golett said nothing as he pointed his fist at the ground. Then Golett fired a shadow in the shape of a fist. And it bounced off the ground and sneaked past the knight's shield and hit the knight in the gut. This made the knight drop his weapons and placed his arms over his gut's. Sophie then punched the knight in the face sending him flying a few feet back.

What they didn't know was that another knight was sneaking up from above them. Once the knight was above the group the knight jumped down, but Skarmory noticed the knight. (Not this time Protect.) Skarmory said as she got in between Richard and the knight. Then a green energy shield appeared around Skarmory and Ricahrd. And thanks to Protect the knights attack failed and the knight landed behind the group.

But then as soon as the protect faded Richard charged and pierced the knight with his sword, then Richard Pushed the knight over the side making the knight fall into the lake. (Did you really have to go that far?) Skarmory asked Richard as she looked over the side.

"Your friends, our strong Asbel." Malik said to Asbel, as he, Asbel, and William had their weapons locked with each other. "You haven't seen anything yet. Froslass use Shadow Ball." William said as he broke the lock forcing everyone back. (On it.) Froslass said as she fired a ball of black energy. But Malik was able to dodge the Shadow Ball. "Yamper you got to help." Asbel said as he, Malik and William started to fight again.

(But what can I do?) Yamper said as he backed away from the group. But then Yamper remembered the talk he had with Swampert yesterday. (I don't know if this will work. But it's worth a shot.) Yamper said as he started to run around in a circle. "What is Yamper doing?" Asbel asked William. "How should I know?" William said to Asbel. "Stay focused. The battle's not over." Malik said to Asbel and William, forcing them back.

But then Asbel and William got back to fighting with Malik. (Ok here I go.) Yamper said as he charged at Malik leaving a small tail of electricity. Then as Yamper ran, the electricity went into his mouth and his teeth became long, sharp, and yellow. William noticed this and pulled Asbel back. This confused Malik for a second before noticing Yamper by his right leg. Then Yamper bit into Malik's right leg, and a surge of electricity went though Malik's body.

This did some damage, and gave Asbel and William a window to strike. So as Yamper let go of Malik's right leg Asbel and William charged to finish Malik. Malik was able to regain some of his strength and was able to block Asbel and Williams attack, but since he was still shocked from Yamper's attack. William and Asbel were able to force Malik arms up and ram their elbows into Malik's cheat hard.

This forced Malik back, and in that moment William swung his spear, and hit Malik's chin with the bottom of his spear. This left Malik wide open, and Asbel striked. But Malik still had enough strength to stop Asbel from killing him, but not enough to stop Asbel from forcing him back.

After Malik took a few steps back, he fell to his knees. "You're grown strong, Asbel." Malik said to Asbel in defeat. "Captain." Asbel said to Malik. "Don't be so hard on yourself. You stood against me, Asbel, Froslass, and Yamper at the same time. If Yamper didn't just learn Thunder Fang then we would still be battling." William said to Malik as some of Dalens troops made it to everyone.

"Your Highness! Duke Dalen reports that we have successfully taken the fortress!" One of Dalen's soldiers said to Richard. "There is little point in further resistance." Malik said as he tossed his weapon. William then picked up the weapon, as Richard walked to the front of the group. "You know when you are beaten. This, at least, is an honorable trait." Richard said as he pointed his sword at Malik.

"Richard, wait! Captain Malik was only doing what he thought was right!" Asbel said to Richard. "He still sided with the enemy." William said to Asbel. "He could be a vital part of your kingdom when the war is over." Asbel said to Ricahrd. "I will decide who belongs in my kingdom! Urgh… What's happening…" Richard said as he started to grab his head with his left hand. "Richard." William said as Richard fell to the floor. "What's wrong?" Asbel asked Richard as he and William got to Richard's side.

"N-No… this isn't… me.." Richard said. "Richard!" Asbel said to Richard. "Richard just focus on our voices and take deep breaths." William said to Richard. "There you go. There you go. There you go." William said as Richard started to calm down. "You good?" William asked Richard. "I'm fine. Forgive me. I felt unwell for a moment." Richard said to William as he got up. "It's fine Richard. The day isn't over and it's already a long day." William said to Richard as everyone put their weapons away, and as William put Malik's sword in his bag.

Richard then walked to one of Dalen's soldiers. "I'll decide the fate of these men later. For now, lock them in the fortress so they do not escape." Richard said to Dalen's soldier. "Yes, sir!" Dalen's soldier said to Richard before he and the other soldiers started to take the knights that were still alive away. "Richard? Asbel said to Richard. "I must speak with Duke Dalen." Richard said to everyone before leaving with Skarmory.

"It seems I may live to see another day after all. Asbel… Though you did not complete your training, you have become a fine knight. Serve this country, and Prince Richard, well. Along with all of your friends." Malik said to Asbel. "Thank you, Captain. None of this would have been possible without your instruction." Asbel said to Malik, saluting him. "It was an honor to fight you Malik. Maybe next time we could spar with you and you can give me some pointers." William said to Malik. "I like that kid. Keep good care of my sword." Malik said before he and the last knight left the group.

"Sooo. what happens to him?" Pascal asked everyone. "We fought on different sides, but he's still a citizen of Windor. I don't think they'll be too hard on him." Asbel said to Pascal. "It really depends on what Richard decides. For all we know Richard could have them all be beheaded." William said to Asbel. "I hope not." Pascal said to William. "Richard would do that." Asbel said to William.

"Asbel did you forget how Richard acted in the central tower. I admit I wasn't in the best of mood either, but Richard was acting like some kind of monster." William said to Asbel. "I'm sure it's just stress. He has been through a lot these last few days." Asbel said to William. "We all have. "Anyway, what now? Do we go find Richard and Skarmory again or what?" Pascal asked everyone as Sophie looked over the side.

"Well it's not like we have anything better to do then to go talk to Richard so let's go after them." William said to Pascal. "Yeah. He said he was going to speak to Duke Dalen." Asbel said to everyone. "Then let's go find them." William said to everyone. "Cheria." Sophie said surprising everyone. "What?" Asbel asked Sophie. "Sophie, what are you talking about?" William asked Sophie as they all looked over the edge.

"Cheria is down there." Sophie said, as everyone noticed a group of people not in armor healing the injured knights below. "She is?" Asbel said as they noticed Cheria in the middle of the group. "What's she doing here?" William said, wondering why she's here. "Let's go take a look." Asbel said as they started to walk towards Cheria wondering why she's here.

A few minutes later they made it to Cheria. "Asbel! What are you doing here?" Cheria said as she noticed everyone. "Were all Richards friends where else would we be, and thank you for your concern for us as well." William said to Cheria, as she ran to Sophie. "Oh, Sophie, I'm glad you're safe. I was so worried when the two of you left Lhant." Cheria said to Sophie. "It's like I don't exist." William said, turning away from Cheria. "I know you exist." Pascal said to William. "Thanks Pascal." William said to Pascal as Cheria noticed Pascal.

"And you are?" Cheria asked Pascal. "I'm Pascal! This is Elgyem! Totally nice to meetcha, Cheria. Elgyem says high." Pascal said to Cheria and Elgyem. (Hello. Cheria.) Elgyem said to Cheria blinking his lights. "And this is Golett." Sophie said to Cheria. Golett didn't say high or move in the slightest. "And you haven't met Froslass yet." (Hello.) Froslass said to Cheria. "Um… yes. Nice to meet you all… as well." Cheria said to everyone.

"So what are you doing here?" Asbel asked Cheria. "And Where is Ralts?" William asked Cheria. (I'm here.) Ralts said as she teleported onto William's head. "Oh there you are." William said to Ralts. "Oh who's this?" Pascal asked William. "She's Ralts, a Pokemon that follows Cheria." William said to Pascal.

"Anyway you were telling us why you're here?" Asbel asked Cheria. "I joined a relief organization made up of volunteers from Lhant. Lieutenant Moore made this after learning what happened to the previous king. While she couldn't spare any troops. She did want to help. So she asked the people of Lhant who would like to help everyone. I joined because I wanted to help those who were hurt in the battle. And after seeing my healing skills Lieutenant Moore put me in charge." Cheria said to Asbel.

"A relief organization, huh?" Asbel said to Cheria. "I wonder what's Alice's angle in all this, and how crazy she was when she put Cheria in charge." William said to everyone. "William." Asbel said to William. "What? What did say?" William asked Asbel. "So you came to a battlefield to help people? That's so totally noble and brave and stuff." Pascal said to Cheria. "And completely out of character for her." William said to Pascal. "William!" Asbel said to William. "What? We're all thinking about it." William said to Asbel.

"Come on. Let's take Cheria to Richard. I'm sure he'll be willing to support Cheria cause." Asbel said to everyone. "Asbel can I have a word with you over here please." William said as he put Ralts on the ground and pulled Asbel to the side. A few seconds later they were out of ear range of the other.

"Asbel are you sure dring Cheria to Ricahrd is a good idea?" William asked Asbel. "Yeah don't you?" Asbel asked William. "No." William said to Asbel. "Why not?" Asbel asked William. "We don't know if Cheria is a spy or an assassin sent by Hubert to kill Richard." William said to Asbel. "Hubert and Cheria aren't like that." Asbel said to William. "How would you know that? You may have known them longer than me. But you need to subtract the seven years we have been gone. After all you reconnected with Cheria a few hours before I came back, and Hubert stabled you in the back before he had breakfast. So how do you know that they are not like that?" William asked Asbel.

"I just do. Can you trust me?" Asbel asked William. "I trust you with my life. I trust Sophie with my life. I trust Richard with my life. I trust Pascal because she's earned it. I trust the Pokemon because we would be dead without them. I'm on the fence about Alice. I don't trust a girl who just did nothing for seven years. And absolutely don't trust a someone who hurt his brother all because of his fathers stupid idea." William said to Asbel. "Please just trust me on this. Cheria is a good person." Asbel said to William. "Fine, but if anything happens it's on your head." William said to Asbel before walking away. Asbel then followed him, and they made it back towards the group.

"So you guys got everything worked out?" Pascal asked Asbel and Willia. "Yes. now let's find Richard." Asbel said to Pascal. "He was gonna go see the duke, right? So where's that?" Pascal asked everyone. "Probably the central tower. It did look like a meeting room." William said to everyone. "Ok then let's go there." Asbel said as everyone started to move with William behind Cheria.

After a few minutes of walking Cheria stopped, which made everyone stop. "Sophie, I don't want to be rude. But your hair is filthy, and you're covered in dirt. Have you been bathing regularly?" Cheria asked Sophie. "No." Sophie said as she shook her. "What?! You're supposed to take care of her!" Cheria said to Asbel, getting a little mad. "I AM taking care of her! But I mean, come on! There's only so much I can do… you know? Asbel said to Cheria.

"And it's not like we have the time for a bath. We got kicked out of Lhant before the sun finished rising, got caught in a downpour, running from knights that were trying to kill us. Traveling through a cave to rescue and escape with Ricahrd. Traveled through ruins, practiced till we dropped yesterday for this battle, and left for this battle at the crack of dawn." William said to Cheria, summarizing what has happened to them in the past 24 hours.

"Mmm. I suppose." Cheria said to Asbel and William. "Look, I'll clean you all up soon. All right?" Cheria said to Sophie. "Okay." Sophie said to Cheria. "Men, it's not like skipping a few baths will kill you." Pascal said to Cheria. "She has a point. After all we don't need to take a bath everyday, just every now and then." William said to Cheria. "Yes it will! Dirty people are unhealthy people. Everyone knows that." Cheria said to Pascal and William. "I'm sure that's just something Frederic told you because he didn't want you to get sicker than you already were." William said to Cheria.

"That's it I'm going to scrub all you down later." Cheria said to Pascal, Sophie, and William. "Y'okay!" Pascal said in a funny way. "Y'okay." Sophie said, copping Pascal. "Stop that! Don't mimic her." Cheria said to Sophie, scaring Pascal a little. "She's like their mother…" Asbel said to William. "If she is, then I'm going to be in my rebellious teen years now and not listen to her." William said to Asbel. "Ok enough let's go see Richard and Skarmory." Asbel said to everyone. "Skarmory?" Cheria asked. "You'll meet her in a bit." William said to Cheria as they all started to move.

A few minutes later they found Richard on top of the central tower with Dalen kneeling at Richard's side, and Richard and Skarmory looking out over Wallbridge. "More soldiers are rallying to our cause after news of Your Highness' victory I doubt even Archduke Cedric can match our strength now." Dalen said to Richard. (This is good news.) Skarmory said to Dalen. "The false king shall soon topple and fall. My dear uncle must be trembling in his boots." Richard said to Dalen and Skarmory. "That's Ricahrd? And is that metal bird Skarmory?" Cheria asked everyone.

"Yes they are." William said alering Richard to the group's presents. "Asbel, William, you two are here. Good." Richard said to Asbel and William, making them step forward. 'We've come a long way, in just a day. When barona falls, the war will be over." Ricahrd said to Asbel and William. "The reign of King Cedric will be just a sentence in the history books." William said to Ricahrd. "Then this country will know what it means to face true justice." Richard said to William and Asbel. "Hmm? Who are you? And what is that Pokemon with you?" Richard said to Cheria as he noticed her and Ralts.

"Cheria Barnes. It's been a long time, Your highness." Cheria said as she took a few steps forward and kneeled before him. "And her Pokemon is called Ralts, it's nervous around People. (Hello.) Ralts said to Ricahrd. "Cheria! Did you hear my appeal and come to join the fight with Ralts?" Richard said to Cheria. "Ah, no I.." Cheria said to Ricahrd but was interrupted by Richard. "Fear not. Once I reclaim my throne, I will save the good people of Lhant." Richard said to Cheria, helping her up.

"Cheria came to help the wounded." Asbel said to Ricahrd. "And Ralts just followed Cheria, she's not Cheria's partner." William said to Richard. "Shame, but excellent. I have many injured men, and your skills will be most welcome." Richard said to Cheria. "Thank you." Cheria said to Ricahrd bowing a little. "Healing our allies must be your top priority, as such you may ignore the prisoners." Richard said to Cheria. "Wh-what?" Cheria was surprised by what Richard said.

"These who lend aid to my uncle are no better than beasts. Even their wounded deserve no mercy." Richard said looking away from everyone. "They're still citizens of Windor…" Asbel said to Richard, making Richard turn to him. "Those who stand against me have no place in my kingdom." Richard said to Asbel. "B-But Richard…" Asbel said to Richard. "Everyone must know the consequences of disloyalty. This is why I plan to have the traitors executed. They nearly killed me, their crimes are unforgivable. Death is the only thing those scum deserve." Richard asid surprising the group.

"Ricahrd no! You have to reconsider!" Asbel said to Richard. "Do you really think so, Asbel?" Richard asked Asbel. "They weren't fighting you because they wanted to! Only a coward would kill his own citizens out of fear!" Asbel said to Richard. "You dare lecture me on the rules of proper kingship?" Richard asked Asbel. "No! I'm just trying to help!" Asbel said to Richard. "Silence! I will hear no more of this! Do not forget your place simply because I have shown you kindness!" Richard said to Asbel after he drew his sword and pointed it at Asbel.

"Your Highness, can I make a suggestion?" William asked Ricahrd. "What is it?" Richard asked William. "What if we don't just outright kill them, but we shame them." William said to Ricahrd. "Explain?" Richard said as he put his sword away. "We take their home, their stuff, all their money, everything but just the clothes on their backs, then we banish them from the capital and tell them that if they return they will be executed. Let them live their lives in shame, make it so that everything they worked for is the price of brice for betraying you." William said to Richard. "Hmm? Ugh!" Richard said before grabbing his head again.

"Your Highness!" Dalen said as he came and kneeled by Richards' side, at the same time Richard fell to his knees. But then Richard responded with a cry of pain. "Take His Highness inside! Ans ferch a doctor immediately!" Dalen said to some of his soldiers. The soldiers nodded and took Ricahrd away with Skarmory following them.

"Asbel Lhant, you are suspended from duty. We shall consider your recent behavior and decide an appropriate punishment. William take Asbel, Pascal, Sophie, and the Pokemon to the barracks, and wait for me there." Dalen said to everyone. "Yes sir. Come on everyone." William said as he led everyone to the barracks.

Some time passed and everyone was waiting in the barracks with Pascal sitting on a bed, William laying on a bed, Asbel and Sophie standing, and the Pokemon hanging out in various spots of the barracks. 'What's gotten into Richard?' Asbel thought, thinking about what happened. "Are you and Ricahrd fighting? But... you're friends." Sophie asked Asbel. "Friends… yeah we're friends. But I just don;t know what he's thinking anymore." Asbel said to Sophie. "Sophie, Asbel everyone is just a little tense. After all we are in a war.

"But I'm worried about him." Sophie said to William. "I know he never used to get angry like that…" Richard said to Asbel. "Asbel unlike you he says his father killed and like you his land has been taken over by a bad person. You have to be a fool or an idiot not to be angry at a time like this." William said to Asbel as Dalen walked into the barracks.

"His Highness has recovered." Dalen said to everyone, as he walked to the group. "Good to hear." William said to Dalen as he got up and walked to Dalen. "Also, we have decided to postpone a decision on the fate of the prisoners. For now, they will remain under guard here in wallbridge." Dalen said to everyone. "Thank you." Asbel said to Dalen. "You, however, are ordered to distance yourself from the prince." Dalen said to Asbel. "Yes sir…" Asbel said to Dalen.

"You are free to continue fighting for us, but will no longer be afforded any special treatment." Dalen said to Asbel. "Understood, sir." Asbel said to Dalen. "William we decided you will be in charge of this group, I'll be back with your orders later." Dalen said to William before leaving the room. "Well, this day's been a little nuts!" Pascal said to everyone, as she got up. "And it's not over." William said as Cheria and Ralts walked into the room.

"Oh, hey, Cheria! Are ya all done zappin' the wounded?" Pascal asked Cheria. Cheria responded by nodding yes. "So whatcha gonna do now, Asbel? William?" Pascal asked them. "We still have the rest of the war to finish." William said to Pascal. "But from how the duek spoke, I don't know how much longer I'll be welcomed here." Asbel said to Pascal. "Will you go back to Lhant?" Cheria asked Asbel. "I have no place in Lhant. You know that." Asbel said to Cheria.

"But maybe if you talked it over…" Cheria said to Asbel, but was interrupted by William. "Talk it over with a man who betrays his own brother without a second thought." William said to Cheria. "He's right. Why bother. I was never fit to rule anyway." Asbel said to Cheria. "That's not true." Cheria said to Asbel. "While Asbel has the potential to be a good leader, it doesn't change the fact that Lhant is under the control of the enemy." William said to everyone.

"Huberts not the enemy." Cheria said to William. "He and all of his forces made a deal with Archduke Cedric to help him in his little quest for power. That makes them the enemy of Richard and an enemy of us." William said to Cheria.

"So how are things in Lhant right now?" Asbel asked Cheria trying to lighten the mode. "Well Hubert is still recovering from his fight with William, but he's doing a lot for the people. Lieutenant Moore has been a big help to, she has been training the Lhant guard and organized the relief organization in her free time. Hubert actually said to Lieutenant Moore that I would be a good leader for the relief organization. She didn't take his word for it, so she made me heal a few people. She was interested and then made me the leader." Cheria said to Asbel.

"I see…" Asbel said. "So what are you going to do now?" William asked Asbel. "Alright. For now, I'll stay here and fight for Richard. Even if he's angry with me, I can still help." Asbel said to everyone. "That's the spirit." William said to Asbel, "Plus, who knows? Maybe he'll change his mind or something." Pascal said to everyone. "Um… Do you mind if I come with you? If he invades the capital, there'll be a lot of people who need our assistance. And I… I don't want to leave Sophie again." Cheria asked Asbel.

"You know, I could take care of you, too! ...If you just like me." Pascal said to Sophie. "You'll have to talk to William, Dalen's made him incharge of the group." Asbel said to Cheria. "And I say no. If you want to help the people you can hang back until we're done." William said to Cheria. "Come on William we could use her healing." Asbel said to William. "Give me a second to think." William said to Asbel, before he started to think.

"Ok she can come, but you're keeping an eye on her and keeping her out of trouble, understood." William said to Asbel. "Understood." Asbel said to William. "Thank you." Cheria said to William. "Don't thank me. I'm going to go defrost the bridge levers." William said as he left the room with Froslass.

A few hours later, all the troops gathered on the northern bridge waiting for their orders. Once William noticed that, he gathered the group and led them to the north bridge. Once they got there a single soldier walked towards them. "On the orders of Duke Dalen your team will be allowed to join us in battle. However, you will not belong to the regular army. Instead, you will function as an independent commando unit." The Soldier said to William. "Understood. We will do our best to service the Duke and His Highness." William said to the soldier before the soldier left.

"An independent commando unit?" Cheria asked everyone. "Sounds like it just means we can do whatever we want." Pascal said to Cheria. "And how is that different then anything we already have done?" William asked Pascal. "Good point." Pascal said to William, as the troops started to move.

"Cheria… Hubert… Everyone has a place and a purpose… But what about me?" Asbel said to himself, hoping no one could hear him. But William heard him. "Asbel if you can't find our place or your purpose, then make one for yourself." William said to Asbel. "Right, pouting about it won't change anything. For now. I'll just do what I can to help Richard." Asbel said to William. "Good now let's go. Froslass return, you've done enough for one day." William said as they all started to move and returned Froslass to her Pokeball.

An hour later they all made it to the edge of Barona. William decided to lead the group to the secret tunnel they used to escape. There they met a soldier standing guard. "William. Have you come here on His Highness' orders?" The soldier said to William. "Orders? What orders?" William asked the soldier. "Did the prince come this way?" Asbel asked the soldier. "Yes. He took a squad inside just before you arrived." The soldier said to Asbel. "I see." Asbel said to the soldier.

"So should we follow them?" William asked the group. They all nodded yes. Then they went into the secret tunnel. Then after traveling through the secret tunnel, they found their way into the underground area of the palace. And after finding a bunch of dead ends. They found Richard and Skarmory in a large area surrounded by dead bodies of both of his and Cedric soldiers. "Richard!" Asbel said alerting Richard and Skarmory of their presents.

"Asble… William… You're here. As you can see, we were ambushed, and all my men slain. Without the help of Skarmory. I would have been to." Richard said to everyone. (I'm proud to be of service) Skarmory said to Richard. "This place is dangerous. You should let us take it from here." Asbel said to Richard. "Impossible. I must settle things with my uncle personally." Richard said to everyone. "Your Highness, why not take us as your royal guard, we'll protect you as we make our way to your uncle. Once we're there you can finish your uncle." William said to Richard. "Very well." Richard said as he started to lead the way.

After walking for a bit Richard stopped and grabbed his chest. "N-No… Stop… Don't come out…" Richard said, worrying everyone. Then Richard fell to the floor, and everyone rushed to his side. "Richard, are you alright?! Are you hurt?" Asbel asked Richard. (He shouldn't be, I have been protecting him, this entire time) Skarmory said to Asbel. "It's the wound you took at Wallbridge, isn't it? Or is it the poison you told me about? The one given to your father?" Asbel said to Richard.

"Yes… My uncle tried to poison my father and as I expected, he did the same to me. But when that didn't work, he came at us directly." Richard said to everyone. "But it can't be the poison I gave Richard a berry that cures all poisons." William said to everyone. "I will make him pay." Richard said to everyone. "We all will make him pay." William said as he helped Richard up. "He will curse the day he tried to take my life!" Richard said to everyone. "Richard…" Asbel said to Richard. "We've wasted enough time. Let's go." Richard said to everyone. "You heard the man let's go." William said as they all started to move.

They spent the next hour fighting Cedric's man and working their way through the palace, but then were stopped by a slender woman with blonde hair tied into a ponytail with some uneven bangs. She had red-brown eyes with some glasses over them. And she was wearing a blue jacket with gold accents, a red scarf, a white blouse, and gloves, white plants with a patch of silver on the sides, and mid-thigh-high blue boots, plus a decorative spear in her right hand

"Major Victoria…? What are you doing here?" Asbel said to the woman. "Asbel you know her?" William asked Asbel. "She is an instructor from the Knight Academy." Asbel said to William. "And I'm not here on academy business. Surely you realize that?" Victoria said to Asbel. "You're Cedric's guard…" Richard said to Victoria. "Gold star for you, young man. But you need to leave here." Victoria said to Richard. "No!" Asbel said to Victoria, as everyone grabbed their weapons. "If you're Cedric's guard then you're the only thing standing in between us and Cedric." William said to Victoria.

"I see… Then you leave me no choice!" Victoria said before she started to attack. Everyone then dodged Victoria's first attack. "Swampert help us." William said as he let Swampert out of his Pokeball. (Ok) Swampert said, as he tried to punch Victoria. But Victoria uses her spear to jump into the air.

"Elgyem use Psybeam." Pascal said to Elgyem as she fired a few fire shots at Victoria who was still in the air. (Okay.) Elgyem said as he fired a mutley color beam that moved in the shape of a sharp wavelength. Victoria used her spear to block Pascals fire shots, but thanks to how the Psybeam move, it dodged Victoria spear, but Victoria was still fast enough to make the psybeam just scratch her side.

"Man she's good." William said as Victoria landed on the ground. Then Sophie and Golett charged at Victoria, and started to punch Victoria. But Victoria used her speed to block and redirect Sophie and Goletts punches. "Yamper use Thunder Fang." Asbel said as he charged at Victoria. (Right behind you Asbel.) Yamper said as he followed Asbel with long sharp yellow teeth. Victoria noticed Asbel and Yamper charging at her and forced Sophie and Golett back. Then Victoria blocked Asbel attack, but missed Yamper. But just before Yamper could bite Victoria's right leg his thunder fang just stopped. (What?) Yamper said, still with his teeth in Victoria's right leg.

Victoria then kicked Yamper away and started to swing her spear at Asbel. (I got you kid.) Swampert said as he caught Yamper and as William went to help Asbel. (What happened?) Yamper asked Swampert. (When did you learn Thunder Fang?) Sampert asked Yamper. (Earlier today.) Yamper said to Swampert. (That might be the problem. You need to practice with the move a bit more before you have it mastered) Swampert said to Yamper. "Swampert, Yamper help us." William said to Swampert and Yamper as Victoria forced them back.

Once Victoria was free from Asbel and William, she charged at Richard. Cheria then tried to throw a few daggers at Victoria, but Victoria dodge them easily. "That's how you fight, by throwing daggers?" William asked Cheria. "You have a better idea?" Cheria asked William. "Yeah you use the dagger to stab the target, instead of thoughting them." William said Cheria. "But that's too violent." Cheria said making William slap his hand into his face

As they talked Victoria reached RIchard. (Stay away from him. Protect.) Skarmory said as she formed a green energy shield sounded her and Richard, stopping Victoria's attack. "Good work Skarmory, now use Drill Peck" Richard said to Skarmory. (Okay.) Skarmory said as her beck grew and started to spin like a drill, at the same time Richard started to attack Victoria with piercing attacks. Victoria used the head of her spear to block Skarmory's attack, but Richard was able to give Victoria a few cuts.

"Richard Skarmory get away from her. Swampert use Muddy Water." William said to Richard, Skarmory, and Swampert. (You got it.) Swampert said as everyone moved away from Victoria. Then once Victoria was alone Swampert slammed his fist into the ground making a wave of mud. "Is that a wave of mud?" Victoria asked with a shock look on her face, before the wave slammed into her and forced her into the wall. Once the mud cleared it relieved Victoria laying against the wall trying to get up. (You've done enough fighting. Hypnosis.) Ralts said to Victoria, as she teleported to Victoria side and put her to sleep.

Once Victoria was asleep Richard was about to strike and kill Victoria, but William then grabbed Richards arm stopping him. "My lord, we don't have time for this. Cedric may have heard our fight. We need to go before he can escape." William said to Richard. "Good point William, I'll deal with her later. Now let's go." Ricahrd said as everyone started to move, leaving Victoria alone.

A few minutes later everyone made it to the throne room. The throne was a gold plate with a small sheet in front of it, with a red cushion on it. And on that throne was a strong looking middle aged man, with blonde hair that was comed to go up and over his head, and brown eyes. Wearing a blown coat with a red cap on it, black pants, and armored gloves and boots, sitting on the throne. "Richard! How dare you show your face here!" The man said as he got up and pulled out a big stone sword. "That's Cedric?" William asked Richard. "Yes." Richard said to William.

"It's over, dear Uncle. My army has the capital surrounded." Richard said to Cedric. "What? Is that… really you?" Cedric said looking at Richard. "What a stupid thing to say. I have come to avenge my father!" Richard said to Cedric. "I am the rightful king of this land, and you will not stand in my way!" Cedric said to Richard. "It's been a long day so we're going to make this quick. Swampert use Muddy Water, wash away this false king." William said to Cedric and Swampert.

(On it.) Swampert said as he made a wave of mud. "False king. I'll show you who's the false king here." Cedric said as he planted his sword into the ground. This turned the sword into a wave breaker, and made the Muddy Water miss him. "Ok so maybe this won't be easy." William said as Cedric pulled his sword out of the floor and charged at the group.

"Yamper use Sand Attack." Asbel said to Yamper as they dodged Cedric attack. (But I forgot how to use that move) Yamper said to Asbel. "What's wrong? Why aren't you using it?" Asbel asked Yamper as everyone was scattered to different corners of the room. "He must have forgotten how to use Sand Attack when he learned Thunder Fang." William said to Asbel as Cedric charged at Richard again. "Everyone pay attention." Richard said to everyone. (Protect.) Skarmory said as a green energy shield wrapped around her and Richard, protecting them from Cedric's hard and heavy attacks.

(I may not know Sand Attack, but I still have other moves. Like this one Spark." Yamper said as he charged at Cedric with Cheria throwing a few daggers at Cedric. But Cedric noticed the daggers coming and then saw Yamper. Cedric dodge Cheria's daggers and then hit Yamper with the flat side of his sword, sending Yamper flying. "YAMPER!" Asbel yelled. (I got you Yamper. Confusion.) Ralts said as her eyes turned teal and a teal outline appeared on Yamper, making Yamper stop in mid air. Then Yamper was gently pleased into Asbel arms. "Thanks Ralts." Asbel said to Ralts.

(Richard get on my back.) Skarmory said to Richard, noticing that Cedric was distracted. "Right." Richard said as he hopped onto Skarmory's back. Once Richard was on Skarmory's back, Skarmory took off. This made Cedric turn to Skarmory and Richard, ignoring the others. "Ok Elgyem help me with your Confusion." Pascal said as she fired a few electric shots. (Okay.) Elgyem said as his eyes and lights turned teal, and a teal outline appeared around the electric shot Pascal fired.

Cedric noticed the shots and got ready to block them with his sword, but thanks to Elgyem's Confusion the shots went around the sword and hit him. But they had little effect. "Cedric is tough." Cheria said to everyone. "Then we got to get stronger. Swampert are you ready?" William said to Swampert as he flipped his hood up. (I've been waiting to do this. Rain Dance.) Swampert said as he started to glow blue. Then dark clouds formed on the ceiling.

"Huh?" Cedric said as he felt a drop of water. Then rain started to come out of the clouds. "How is it raining?" Cedric asked. "It is our power Cedric and now you're going to see what true power is. The power of brotherhood and family." William said as he touched the crystal on his left wrist.

"We will stand against any who will hurt our friends. We will stand for each other. And we will stand as the symbol of loyalty!" William said as three streams of energy burst out of Williams and Swampert crystals. Soon the streams of energy contented then Swampert started to glow and grow. Then Swampert stopped glowing revealing a more muscled version of Swmapert with his orange spicks being longer, and sharper. And having two more extra bumps on his hands.

(Okay let's do this.) Swampert said as he punched his hands together. "You think that will scare me." Cedric said as he charged at Swampert. But before Cedric could strike Swampert dodge and got away from Cedric. "What nothing that big can move that fast!" Cedric said, surprised by Swamperts moment. "So long as it rains Swampert ability Swift Swim. Will make him twice as fast as normal. Now Swampert use Avalanche." William said to Cedric and Swampert.

Swampert said nothing as he glowed light blue and grey clouds mixed with the rain clouds. Soon hundreds of ice shades came crashing down onto Cedric. This forced Cedric to use his sword as a crutch. "Now let's see how you can handle this wave. Muddy Water!" William said to Swampert. (You got it) Swampert said as he slammed his fist into the ground, but unlike the last wave, this wave was even bigger and had more force. Cedric tried to use his sword to block it like time, but that was his mistake. The wave had enough force to push Cedric back to the middle of the room, and make him drop his sword.

"Now finish this with Earthquake!" William said to Swampert. (With pleasure.) Swampert said as he ran to the spot Cedric was trying to get up from. Cedric then saw Swampert appear in front of him. Swampert then slammed his fist into Cedric. This caused the palace to shake, and left cracks on the ground. All those attacks dealt a lot of damage. Leave Cedric barely enough straight to support himself, even though he was on his hands and knees.

"No, not now. It can't be. Not when I'm finally this close." Cedric said with what little strength he had left. Then Skarmory landed next to Swampert as everyone started to gather around Swampert, who turned back to normal. "What happened to Swampert?" Asbel asked William as Ricahrd got off Skarmory. "I'll tell you later." William said to Asbel.

"They say a throne chooses the king who sits upon it. You cannot bargain for it, or size it through treachery." Richard said to Cedric, making Cedric look up at Richard. Richard then placed a hand on Cedric's face. "I'm glad you were able to learn this before you died, Uncle." Richard said to Cedric, before ramming his blade through Cedric's heart. Cedric let out a dead cry and Richard pulled out his sword. Then Cedric falled to the floor. "Oh, and also… This is for my father!" Richard said as he stabbed Cedric again.

This made Cheria, Ralts, Yamper, Elgyem, look away. Surprised Pascal. worried Asbel, William and Swampert. But it didn't affect Sophie, Golett and Skarmory. "Stop Richard! That's enough!" Asbel said to Richard. "He's right, your Highness, the false king is dead. No need to defile his body." William said to Ricahrd. "I've finished what I came here to do. My father died in this room. Now his soul can rest." Ricahrd said as he put his sword away. 'I don't know about that.' William thought as Dalen and a few soldiers came into the throne room.

"It seems you have achieved all of your goals, Your Highness. Congratulations." Dalen said to Richard, as he bowed to Richard, and his soldier saluted Ricahrd. "Dalen, what's the situation?" Richard asked Dalen. "Those who support you opened the gates for our troops, and we entered without casualties. Only a few scattered soldiers still resist us. The city should be ours within the hour. I believe... It is finally over." Dalen said to Ricahrd. "No. it is not. Skarmory walked with me." Richard said to Dalen and Skarmory, as he walked to the throne.

(As you wish.) Skarmory said as she followed Richard. "This is only the beginning. The beginning of a new chapter in the history of the Windor Kingdom. One forged by the power of Pokemon. Correct?" Richard asked everyone as he and Skarmory stood in front of the throne. "As you say! Dalen said as he and his soldiers kneel before Richard and Skarmory. Then everyone and the Pokemon kneeled before Richard and Skarmory, with Pascal helping Sophie to the floor.

"Time for the coronation. The people must have no doubt that I have ascended to the throne. With a new way to rule." Richard said to everyone. No one spoke a word out of respect for their new king and his partner Skarmory.

Hello everyone please like, follow, or review if you like this story. Sorry if the battles seemed a little small, I was trying to get this story done before the Crown Tundra comes out tomorrow. And in the game the battles are generally short at this part of the game, so it didn't seem like a bad idea to make the battles short.