Chapter 14
What Lurks Below
Cynthia passed through Enbarr's heavily guarded gates with a sigh of relief. It was the first time she had been so thoroughly checked when entering and big city in the Empire. The guards wanted to make sure anyone entering did not bring anything illicit into the city. They even wanted to do a body search, but a swift punch to a guard's jaw and her Garchomp growling was enough to stop them. No matter how many times she explained she was just a traveling researcher, the guards would never believe her.
Honestly, I only carry a bag and short sword for protection, Cynthia thought with a sigh. In most cases Garchomp is enough to scare away any thieves.
As she walked the city, she noticed how bustling it was. While not uncommon when a city has a large port, the fact that so many people were milling about surprised her.
Then again, I haven't been here in a few years.
In the distance loomed the imperial palace. It easily dwarfed the tallest buildings in the city. Part of it was it was built on a tall hill, and that was likely the point. From any spot in the city, someone could see the palace's tall spires looming above. She released a breath and motioned for Garchomp to follow. The land shark kept her eyes on her surroundings. Growling at anyone who got too close. While Cynthia appreciated her partner's weariness, it made it difficult to interact with people.
"Could you stop growling at everyone, Garchomp? Things would be a lot easier if you did."
Garchomp nodded stiffly, but kept her eyes darting in all directions.
The part of the city the two walked through was on the seedier side. She would noticed glances from vagabonds and other sketchy people. However, they would always turn away when Garchomp walked past. She smiled to herself appreciating the reputation of Garchomp's strength. It was difficult for anyone to have Garchomp as a partner, so seeing her with one would make anyone think she is strong.
Unsurprisingly, the port was positioned just outside of the seedier part of the city. Just beyond the warehouses and docks, she could begin to see nicer built houses. She wanted to stop by the port first, as that was where one would find the most loose lipped people. She was trying to uncovered why so many soldiers were out on patrols in the city. Even when she walked through the unsavory part, there were more patrolling soldiers than she last remembered. That would mean the imperial archives and library were no longer open to the public. Though that theory was unconfirmed.
When a tavern with a familiar name was in her view, she quickened her pace. The looks she got from sailors and other people were putting her on edge. They kept their distance with Garchomp behind her, but there was always that one person who was a bit too brave.
She pushed the door to the tavern open and several eyes shot in her direction. Most of the people there were sailors, but in one corner were a group soldiers; likely on their break or shrinking off their duties. When those that turned saw her Garchomp, they quickly turned away. She walked into the tavern and found an open seat at the bar. The bartender put a wooden coaster in front of her before attending a different customer.
Cynthia sighed and threw her head back. The journey to Enbarr had taken longer than she anticipated. Even with the stops she made it took just over a month and a half. She desperately needed an actual bed and not a stiff bedroll.
"Though day?"
Cynthia turned her attention forward and saw the bartender standing in front of her. He had a towel slung over his shoulder and his arms were crossed. She could tell he was waiting for her to order.
"More like tough week," Cynthia answered.
The bartender shrugged. "Same as most people then."
"Is Rowan around?" Cynthia asked.
The bartender nodded and moved to a corner of the bar. A man slept in the countertop with a few empty glasses in front of him. His grey hair was rough, but still surprisingly neat. The bartender shook the man awake and he slowly began to sit up. Despite his drunken state, his grey mustache was still very well kept.
Cynthia sighed. That was Rowan.
The bartender said something to Rowan and any semblance of being drunk evaporated. How he managed to do that, she would never know. The two locked eyes and Rowan motioned for her to follow him to the empty booth.
She sat down across from Rowan, who remained silent for a bit longer. Cynthia guessed it was to get rid of whatever state of drunk he was in. The bartender then came over and put drink down in front of her and Rowan. Before she could say anything, he left. Cynthia grumbled, but began to drink it anyway.
"I told him to make your usual," Rowan said.
Cynthia rolled her eyes. "I didn't come here to drink today."
"Well, you haven't been here in ten years, so it must be important," Rowan said already downing his drink.
"Yeah, well, I though you'd've changed in those ten years I've been gone," Cynthia said.
Rowan sighed and set down his empty cup. He turned to Garchomp, who watched her surroundings with intensity.
"It seems little Gible has grown up," Rowan said, turning back to Cynthia.
"Yeah, and she can kick your ass if need be," Cynthia retorted.
"And here I thought Sycamore was the crass one."
Cynthia rolled her eyes and crossed her arms across her chest. "I can be a whole lot more crass than that."
Cynthia had left Enbarr when she was fifteen. For most of her young life, she was a research assistant to Rowan. Her and another apprentice, Sycamore, stuck by him for the longest time. She had left to pursue her own research and left the two behind. She felt bad for leaving Sycamore with their drunk researcher, but Cynthia knew she would not get farther in her own if she stayed.
"Where is Sycamore anyway?" Cynthia asked, taking a small sip from her drink.
"Holed up in the archives probably. Rarely leaves. He hasn't been the same since you left," Rowan replied.
That stung. She knew Sycamore was a brilliant researcher. Hearing him ramble about his theories involving the transformation of creatures, or how he called it evolution, was always interesting. Hearing that he only spent his time researching meant one of two things, but the way Rowan said he changed made her think the worst.
"I see," she said somberly.
"He's taken on his own apprentice. He reminds me of him in many ways when Sycamore was younger." Rowan let out a wistful sigh. "But I take it you're not here to reminisce."
Cynthia nodded. "Enbarr's different since I left. The military seems more in control that ever. I knew they were amassing soldiers, but this is on a whole other level."
"Almost like they're gearing up for a war," Rowan added. His eyes shifted to the group of soldiers sitting at a table behind them.
Cynthia saw where he was looking and subtly turned her head. The soldiers appeared to be relatively relaxed. They drank and laughed at whatever someone said. They were definitely off duty. Though she was surprised to see them at a tavern by the port.
"I still think that's not why you're here."
Cynthia mentally cursed. Despite being a drunk, Rowan still possessed a sharp mind. It was a shame he spent most of his free time drinking. While she was happy he still frequented the same tavern, the fact he did disappointed her.
"Did your research make you come back?" Rowan asked.
Cynthia nodded. "I need access to the imperial archives. Can you get me in?"
"So you knew they weren't open to the public then?" Rowan asked with a hint of surprise.
Cynthia shook her head. "Nope. Just a guess based on what I've seen from just walking around. If the slums are patrolled heavily now, then the palace must be doubly so."
Rowan chuckled. "Still as sharp as ever."
Cynthia smiled with a bit of pride. Hearing her old mentor speak highly was something she had not heard in a long time. She could still remember when he would call her a prodigy in the research they would conduct.
Rowan then sighed, which made Cynthia's happy smile drop.
"I no longer have access to the archives."
"What?!" Cynthia slammed her hands on the table, causing a few people around them to turn to see what was going on. She quickly sat back down and sunk in her seat. She glared sharply at Rowan.
"Did they finally kick you out for being a drunk?"
Rowan rolled his eyes. "I retired. Sycamore took over my research endeavors."
"You've got to be kidding me," Cynthia said wiping a hand down her face.
Rowan shrugged. "I'm sorry, but a lot can change in a decade."
"Clearly."
She had noticed just how many more wrinkles had formed around Rowan's eyes. From her time with him, she remembered his hair beginning to grey. Now there was not a lock of his dark brown hair left. She knew his research was taxing, but had it become that difficult for him to keep up without her around?
"I can get you into the library. They haven't take me off the list yet," Rowan said.
Cynthia looked up and frowned. "You say 'yet' like they're going to do it soon."
"I still help Sycamore from time to time. We usually meet in the library."
"Then why retire?!"
Rowan sigh and looked to his empty glass. In the last decade so much has happened and even before that. He sighed and faced the ceiling. It had all began when that man arrived.
"Because our research was going to stall at some point," Rowan said.
"Huh? Stall?"
Rownan nodded. "I was going to hit a wall in the near future. There's only so much we can gleam from the transformation of creatures. Sycamore was adamant that he would soon get a breakthrough in his own research, but as the years went by, nothing came about. I decided to retire not long after. Sycamore pushes forward. Confident he can prove his theories." Rowan turned his gaze back to the table, a saddened expression formed. "I didn't have it in me to tell him to stop."
Cythia shuddered at the thought of Sycamore plunging himself into research. That was part of the reason she left. She knew there was only so much one could learn from the confines of a lab. Being out and about in the wild made things so much easier. Her brain never stifled by what could be found in old texts.
"I see. I hope I can see him before I leave again," Cynthia said.
"Please do. I'm sure it'll make him happy. There is a second reason for my retirement, though."
Cynthia perked up at that. She always had a feeling their research would hit a road block, and her assumption was right. The fact there was a second reason made her curious.
"Second reason?"
Rowan nodded. "The Emperor has an advisor. In his rapidly declining health, that advisor has taken up many of his duties until the princess returns. However, I can tell this man has his own goals. He puts a halt on any research being done that does not involve the legendary dragons."
"The legendary dragons?"
Rowan nodded again. "He found my research valuable, but in the process gave us a lot less to work with. I couldn't progress without everything in the archives at our disposal, so I left when I reached my limit."
Cynthia put a hand on her chin. Why would someone put stock in legends? Granted, part of her own research is mythology, but she was more focused on how these kinds of legends come about. Whoever this man was, likely believed the legends to be truth. Why else would someone study them so closely?
"Who is this man?" Cynthia asked in a hushed tone. For some reason, she felt eyes on her. Her Garchomp looked more attentive as well.
"Ghetsis."
The name did not ring a bell for Cynthia. He had to be a recent addition to the emperor's advisors.
"Though the only reason he found my research valuable was because another advisor convinced him. That advisor is called Lysandre. I've seen him a few times with Sycamore. Rather charming man," Rowan explained.
"So this Ghetsis guy is the chief advisor?"
Rowan nodded. "He is. Most decisions are approved by him at some point. The emperor has complete faith in him and his decisions. It almost feels like he's the one in charge."
"So it's like that then?" Cynthia knew what that meant. Whoever this advisor was, likely had an ulterior motive. If she had to guess it would be to usurp the emperor whenever he passed. Things were starting to make a bit more sense in her head. If this Ghetsis guy was really the one in charge then all the heightened military activity was a result of his decisions.
"By the way, why do you need the library and the archives?" Rowan asked.
"Doing some research as a favor to a friend. I knew the archives here would give me a good starting point," Cynthia answered.
"I understand. I'll meet you in front of the library in the morning," Rowan said.
Cynthia frowned. "You better be there. If I find you in this booth drunk, I will punch you."
Rowan chuckled. Cynthia could not help but laugh as well. Talking to him made her feel like she was still his research partner. She hoped that Sycamore, if she managed to see him, would bring a similar feeling.
—-
Cynthia was surprised to see Rowan waiting for her in front of the library. When she had woken up in the morning, she wanted to head straight to the tavern to check if he was still there. She was glad she did not have to. Compared to how he looked yesterday, Rowan dressed a lot more professionally. He looked like how she remembered him. White button down shirt, black tie, blue vest, and black pants. She expected the look to be completed with a white lab coat, but he wore a brown one instead. How he could wear that in the summer's heat was beyond her.
"You actually got out of bed, Rowan. You almost look like a professional," Cynthia jabbed.
Rowan gave a dismissive wave. "When it comes to research I'm always professional."
Cynthia chuckled and followed Rowan into the library. At the entrance, two soldiers stood in attention at the door; with them were two Bisharp. One turned to stop Rowan and asked for some form of identification. He showed the guard a paper and moved to the side. As they entered, Cynthia saw how the two guards eyed her, especially her Garchomp. With a single growl, Garchomp made the two guards turn away. Though Cynthia guessed it would only make her look more suspicious.
When Cynthia made it past the main hall, she had a wave of nostalgia envelope her. She could remember all the times she spent in the library studying and researching. She remembered running from one corner of the library to another in order to find the books she needed. She could still the remember the corner she and Sycamore used to hide in whenever they wanted to get away from Rowan. It all felt like it happened yesterday. Yet, it was relatively empty compared to those days.
"It's been some time since you were last here I take it?" Rowan asked as he walked up next to her.
Cynthia nodded. "Yeah. A lot of good memories in here."
Rowan smiled. "Good. By the way, you'll need this."
Cynthia turned to the older man and saw him holding out a card. It had guest written on it.
"I had to come in advance to make sure you'd be allowed entry. Barely anyone is allowed in here anymore," Rowan explained.
"I see," Cynthia said grabbing the card. "It feels weird to see this place so empty. Who is allowed in?"
"Ghtesis' personal researchers, any other researcher with approval, and the university students. The latter of the two have restricted access, while the former can see to every section."
Cynthia rose an eyebrow. "How will we know which we aren't allowed to see?"
"You'll see guards in front of them," Rowan said, taking a step forwards. "Let's us know we can't go to those areas."
Cynthia nodded and followed Rowan into the library.
The library was as expansive as she remembered. The many hallways lined with all sorts of books. One could spend a year in the library and still not read everything. As a kid, the library was huge in Cynthia's eyes. Even as an adult she still felt small. She also noticed Herdier walking about the halls. She wondered why there were so many of them around.
"I forgot to ask, what is it we're looking for?" Rowan asked.
"Oh, right." Cynthia dug through her bag for a moment to find the book N had given her. When she did, she opened it and turned to the page she and him had seen. "I need help translating these two pages. The whole book as well. It might help figure out what's on the two pages."
Rowan nodded and reached for the book. "May I?"
Cynthia nodded hesitantly, but gave him the book. He studied the two pages she had opened to, but also looked at a few other pages. His eyes moving quickly between sentences.
"This language is quite ancient. Even older than the legends of the dragons," Rowan said, not looking up from the book.
"That's what I told my friend."
"Some of the writing is faded, but the other words should give us context." Rowan closed the book and handed back to Cynthia. "I know which aisle to begin. Luckily, it is not a guarded section."
Cynthia nodded and followed Rowan to another part of the library. As they walked, Cynthia noticed the people in other sections. They were few and far between, but Cynthia assumed they were some kind of researchers. She did know what section they were at, but Cynthia guessed they were part of Ghetsis' group as Rowan would avoid them.
When they reached the part of the library Rowan had mentioned, Cynthia paled at how many books there were. She glanced at the section's title, which read 'foreign and ancient languages." She turned back down the aisle and cringed. It would take them forever to find what they were looking for.
Rowan noticed her distress and cleared his throat to get her attention.
"Don't worry. The Herdier will help us find what we need."
Cynthia turned to him and rose an eyebrow. "The Herdier will?"
Rowan nodded, and moved to the end of one of the bookshelves. He grabbed a blank card and held it up to the Herdier that had followed them. The furry dog sniffed the card and jogged down the aisle. It came back with a book in its mouth. Cynthia marveled at how the dog handled the book. It barely bit into it despite having it in its mouth.
"Thank you, Herdier," Rowan said, petting the dog.
Herdier happily barked, which echoed in the library.
Rowan turned to Cynthia and chuckled at her surprised expression.
"The Herdier are trained to find a book based off scent alone. Just show them the right card and they'll find it. Nifty, right?"
Cynthia nodded. "Yeah. Wished they had implemented that when I was still here."
Rowan chuckled again. "It certainly helped my old bones. Now, let's get to finding a few more books."
The two began to look through the bookshelves for anything that was useful. They even used Herider a few times when the book was farther along the aisle. Searching for books brought back more memories for Cynthia. The many hours she spent trying to find the perfect book for her research. Pouring through books, new and old, with Sycamore. Part of her missed those days.
When the two had a large stack of books, they set them down on a table and began to skim through them. Garchomp, meanwhile, had taken to sitting in a corner and just observe her partner being engrossed in what ever book was in front of her.
When her fist stack of books finished, she stood up to get more. The first stack had a few promising leads, but she needed more information before she had anything concrete. As she looked through the aisle, she heard Rowan talking to someone. It was likely an old colleague of his, so she tuned it out. She had to stay focused on what she was doing.
Satisfied with her next stack, she walked back towards the table. She set down the book with an echoing thud to accompany them.
"I found a few more that-" "Cynthia?"
Cynthia's eyes widened. She turned to the voice that called out her name and saw Sycamore standing beside Rowan. He looked basically the same as she remembered, but taller. He had the same wild, long black hair and dark blue eyes. The main difference were the heavy bags under his eyes. He wore a thin, white coat signifying his rank as a professor.
When he realized that it was indeed Cynthia, the bag he was carrying dropped to the floor. He took a step forward, while she took a step back. They had not seen each other in ten years and the nervousness between the two was obvious.
Rowan noticed and quickly excused himself. "I think you two need a minute."
The two former research assistants said nothing as he walked away, leaving the two alone.
The silence between them only grew. Cynthia struggled to say anything, while Sycamore could barely believe she was in front of him. Cynthia took in a deep breath and released it in order to calm her nerves.
"It's been a long time, Augustine."
Sycamore nodded. "It has. Ten years in fact. You have barely aged. Though your hair is certainly longer."
Cynthia turned away in embarrassment, while Sycamore chuckled. Though, she was happy his personality was still mostly the same. His jab had a hint of tiredness to it.
"What brings you back to Enbarr? Researching something?" Sycamore asked.
Cynthia nodded. "Yeah. It's a favor for a friend."
"I can help," Sycamore said quickly. He quickly stumbled back as he realized how quickly he had said it. "I'm sorry. I don't mean to impose. This is your research and I don't want to get in your way."
Cynthia giggled as Sycamore's awkward side coming about. It had been some time since she experienced it, but it was still the same as it was ten years ago.
"I'd appreciate it if you did," Cynthia said and gestured to the stack of books.
Sycamore smiled and pulled out the chair. "What is it you need help with? Based on the aisle you're sitting by you're looking to translate something?"
Cynthia nodded. "It's this old text my friend gave me. I can make out a few words, but the rest is either too faded, or I don't know enough about the language."
Sycamore put a hand on his chin. "I see. What it is you're trying to figure out?"
Cynthia pushed the stack of books she had set down to the side and pulled the book N had given her towards them. She flipped to the pages N had shown her and Sycamore quickly realized what she was looking at.
"That's Kyurem. You're researching it too?"
"Wait, 'too?' Who else is looking into it?"
Syamore quickly scanned around them, making sure no one could eavesdrop. He let out a breath and turned to Cynthia.
"Ghetsis."
Cynthia could see how his expression hardened at saying his name. She could tell he was not fond of Ghetsis. She still did not know who it was, but if Sycamore did not like him, then she was sure she would not as well.
"He's been looking into Kyurem for years now. He's got some weird scientist guy spearheading that research. Rumor has it he's close to finding it."
"Kyurem's real?"
Sycamore nodded. "Supposedly it's related to the legendary dragons. I met the lead researcher on the project once. His name is Colress. He and someone else were the ones to give my research value in Ghetsis' eyes. He has a theory about Kyurem and the legendary dragons, but he hasn't disclosed it to anyone besides Ghetsis and that other person."
"It has to do with the transformation of the creatures?" Cynthia asked.
Sycamore nodded. "At least a part of it is. I only caught a brief moment in their conversation, but mentioned something about fusion. I'm not entirely sure what them means."
Sycamore turned to the book. His eyes quickly scanning over the sentences. Cynthia was still processing everything. Somehow N had stumbled into finding research materials from an advisor in the Adrestian Empire. She had told him he felt some sort of connection with Kyurem and his past. He was always vague about his upbringing before Jeralt, but she remembered him mentioning something about the legendary dragons.
"Here, I found it."
Cynthia turned to Sycamore. He was pointing at a page with an illustration. It was some kind of pointed object. The letters at the top of the page read DNA, but what came after was too faded to read. She looked to what Sycamore was pointing to and saw the word fusion.
"Does whatever this thing is have to do with fusion?"
Sycamore nodded and pointed the beginning of a paragraph. "Here. It says that when fire and ice combine, even the coldest of ice can burn like the sun. Following that, when lightening and ice combine, the bolts can freeze anything solid."
"Wait, you can read that? I can barely make sense of it."
Sycamore chuckled. "I found a book detailing the connection between relic weapons imbued with crest stone powers and creatures. It's what furthered my own research and Colress thought there could be a connection with his research there."
"But fusion of what?" Cynthia asked, putting a hand on her chin. "Ice, fire, and lightening don't mix. If the legends are right, Reshiram can scorch any sized field with its flames and Zekrom and call upon thunder storms stronger than any nature can produce. Yet, there are no legends on Kyurem. It's like it doesn't exist."
"Which is why Colress is, supposedly, looking for it," Sycamore replied.
Something was not adding up in Cynthia's mind. It was this fusion element. As far as she knew creatures were only capable of transformation into a stronger form, or evolution as Sycamore called it. Could two different creatures fuse into a whole different one? Was something like that even possible? Then there was that DNA object. It had to be some kind of key to fusion. But what that fusion was, she did now know.
Cynthia let out a groan and sat back in chair. All she came to do was figure out what Kyurem was. Now she learns about this new way the creatures had to gain power. And that was only if the more than one creature could undergo fusion. She guessed Kyurem was a part of the answer, but whatever the whole answer was she doubt Sycamore knew more than what he told her.
She found out more about Kyurem, but there was still the symbol that was N's crest. The one with a too faded name for her to read. She tried to decipher the text beneath it, but the words seemed to make no sense. She turned to Sycamore who studied the book intensely.
"There's one more thing I want you look at," Cynthia said.
Sycamore turned to her and nodded. Cynthia took the book and began to turn pages until she found the symbol. She gestured to it and Sycamore began to read. He mouthed words in order to properly translate what was on the page, which made her glad he showed up. If he had not, then her and Rowan would have spent hours trying to decipher it.
Speaking of Rowan, he had yet to come back. She had not been keeping track of the time, but he had been gone for longer than 10 minutes. Part of her worried, so she would check the aisle of books after her and Sycamore were done talking.
"From what I can gather, this is a crest and rare one at that," Sycamore said not looking up from the book.
"I could've told you that," Cynthia replied.
Sycamore rolled his eyes. "Some of the words are pretty faded, but from what I could gather, the crest's power is that it gives a greater connection to the creatures. It says something about speaking, but not sure what that could mean."
Cynthia's eyes widened. She remembered N telling her about his ability to speak to the creatures. She had dismissed it at first. He chalked it up to a kid talking to himself when he did not have friends. Now there was some truth to his words. His crest likely gave him that power, like how other crests that enhance physical strength.
"Anything else?"
Sycamore sighed. "There's something relating to the legendary dragons, but that part it too faded to read. I guess if someone has this crest they can summon one of the legendary dragons, or maybe both. It's just a guess really."
"Anything on a name?"
Sycamore looked closer at the top of the page. The words were too faded for Cynthia to see, but Sycamore looked determined to find out.
"It's probably wrong, but I think it says crest of Tao, balance, or energy. If I had to guess it's be Tao."
"Why that one?"
Sycamore chuckled. "Because it sounds the strangest."
Cythia rolled her eyes and lightly punched Sycamore's arm. However, she could not stop herself from laughing as well.
"Let's see what else we find," Sycamore said.
"Just like old times?"
Sycamore nodded in response and the two turned to the book again.
From the aisle, Rowan watched with a smile as his two former students traded theories and ideas. It made him happy to them interacting again. He knew that if the two talked, then they were sure to figure out the problem.
Those two will always find the answer, Rowan thought as the smile he wore widened.
He would join them again later. He wanted them to notice he was gone before showing up at the table again.
—-
The eternal blizzard, as Colress began to call it, continued to blow around the research tent. At this point, Colress began to think they were getting closer to the center. The wind had begun to grow in intensity for the last few weeks. If it were not for the calendar he had, Colress and his team would have lost track of time a long time ago.
Based on him timeline, they had spent coming on six months trekking through the blizzard. He was positive without Magnezone, his research team would have died by now. Since the Garland Moon, he had not been able to send status updates to Ghetsis, due to the rising intensity of the winds. He just hoped that by the time he made it to the center of blizzard, Ghetsis would have begun his trek through the blizzard. However, he would have markers to guide him. So his trek would not be as long as his.
Colress let out a frigid breath and removed his glasses. He had been looking through his research now just to stave off the boredom. Being forced inside due to the blizzard made most days very uneventful. He kept up with other researchers and their discoveries. Sycamore's had proven to be the most interesting. He had found an old text describing the phenomenon that he was researching, which Sycamore had dubbed Mega Evolution. Something about it fascinated him. Colress was a man of science and the text on the subject said it was only achievable with the strong bond between human and creature, therefore, it had no scientific basis. He could not quantify that bond, so the answer eluded him.
That was why he pursued Kyurem. Its ability to fuse did have a basis in science. Therefore, he would find the source of Kyurem's strength and bring out its full potential. He knew fusion with one of the legendary dragons would be the key to uncovering that mystery. He hoped that Zinzolin had found the splicers. Colress hated relying on such an emotion. It had no scientific backing, similar to that of luck. Hope and luck were variables that could not be quantified, and that unnerved him to no end.
He let his eyes return to the text in front of him. One passage from the old tome he had taken from Garreg Mach all ways stood out to him. Most texts always the two legendary dragons, but this one mentions one progenitor dragon. That dragon then separated into Reshiram and Zekrom, with no mention of Kyurem. It was odd. He could not understand how Reshiram and Zekrom were one. His theory was that Kyurem was a part of the original dragon, but he had not evidence to support it. Having no evidence to back up a theory was the worst for a man of science.
Colress sighed and put his glasses back on. There was still work to be done after all. Beheeyem floated a cup of tea towards him, which the blonde man appreciated. He appreciated it even more when someone opened the curtain to the end bringing in a burst of cold air.
"It's damn cold outside!"
Colress did not need to turn to face their guest. He knew she was never one for formalities.
"I believe that is why it is called a blizzard," Colress said before taking a sip of tea. He recoiled quickly at how fast it got cold.
"Then mind explaining to me why there's a blizzard in the middle of summer?!'
Colress sighed and handed the cold up of tea to Beheeyem. "Cedric, educate her."
"Yes, sir," Cedric said standing up. He turned to the woman, who gave him a grimace. "You see, Miss Kronya, we believe this blizzard is being produced by Kyurem. Therefore, it is unnatural. I doubt even this far north in Faergus it snows this time of year."
"Now you understand," Colress added.
Kronya rolled her eyes and walked towards Colress' desk. He still did not turn to face her, which infuriated her.
"It took you some time to get here. I was sure the markers would help," Colress said.
"Well you moved a lot farther than I thought you did."
Colress chuckled. "Indeed we did. Magnezone has been very helpful."
"Where is that floating saucer anyway?" Kronya asked, looking around the tent.
"Charting our next course. I believe you noticed how the markers were not a straight line."
"Why was that?"
This time, Colress did look up towards the red haired girl. A pleased smile on his face. It was the smile that infuriated her the most, the one that said he was right.
"Each time we turn, we have to because the blizzard is especially intense there. It's rather intriguing how Kyurem is aware we're in the blizzard. However, it does take time for it to find us. For now, it's just a theory. Until we're face to face with Kyurem, we won't know. That's why Magnezone charts our journey."
Kronya groaned. "I didn't need the longwinded explanation."
Colress shrugged. "Maybe not," he turned back to the book in front of him, "but I said it anyway."
Kronya seethed at that comment. She hated interacting with the blonde scientist. He always had a smug air to him. Why Ghetsis assigned her to help him, she will never know.
"By the way, did you managed to get any information on what I asked you to look into?" Colress asked.
"Yeah, saw a couple giant creatures at the canyon."
"I see." Colress did not take his eyes off the book. "Could you figure out how they became giant?"
"Engaging in a battle, I think. A Rhydon was cloaked in the red energy that spews put from the cracks, but it needed a battle for it to become giant," Kronya explained.
Colress paused from skimming the book. He straightened his posture a bit as he turned to Kronya.
"So you saw it battle. Did it battle another wild creature?" Colress asked.
Kronya shook her head. "It battled a group of Garreg Mach students."
"I want you to recount every detail. This might be step forward in my research," Colress said.
Kronya told Colress what she had witnessed. The two other giant creatures that appeared, the sky turning red as the creatures became giant, and how the students battled the giant creatures. Colress listened carefully and took as many notes as he could. He would not have guessed that a battle was needed for the creatures to turn giant sized. Then there was how the attacks were done when giant. The attacks they used were the same but corresponding to the type. It was all very illuminating.
What intrigued him most was the method of activation. A creature needed a battle to become giant, but at the same time, it did not need a different object for its activation. He had theorized that the relic weapons kept by different noble families held the power to trigger both the gigantification and Sycmore's Mega Evolution. His research showed that the crest stones embedded in the weapons held some sort of power over that happening. He had no proof, but it was his working theory.
But Kronya explained was different from his theory. No relic weapon was present in the canyon. Red energy seeped out from the ground and would cloak a creature in it. That meant the Red Canyon was similar to the capital cities of Fodlan's three nations. He had seen areas within those cities where that energy would seep out form the ground. Most were located at their respective palaces, but others were scattered around the nations. Garreg Mach was a place that did not have such energy leaks. However, he did not see every part of the monastery. It was possible one of the chambers closed to the public had that energy seeping out.
All this new information was making his brain run a mile a minute. He could not wait to get out of the blizzard and begin researching the red energy at Enbarr.
As he was about to settle down and try to get some sleep, Magnezone entered the tent. He smiled, knowing this would be a sleepless night.
"Everyone, begin taking down the tent. We move out immediately!" Colress announced.
Today would be a good day for furthering his research.
—
Ghetsis was furious. It had been a month since Colress had last reported on his status. The Honchkrow they used to communicate had returned to him with news that his team was close, but a blizzard kept them from progressing. A blizzard in the middle of summer was preposterous, even in the frigid north of Faergus. He had sent the Honchkrow back to Colress, but it had yet to return.
Due to the lack of communication, his group was forced to stay on the border between Adestria and Faergus. While it would have been quicker to be closer to Garreg Mach, he did not want to get too close. He was sure she would be able to feel his presence. If he got too close, his plans would fall into ruin.
From what Kage had told him, Zinzolin was close to finding the splicers. He had someone doing the investigating for him, but he narrowed down its location. It was a place underneath the monastery known as Abyss. He heard rumors such a place existed, but never a confirmation. The fact that a place that was only rumored existed held the splicers made sense in his head. Soon the splicers would be in his hands and when Kyurem awoke his plans would be in full swing.
There was also the event on the Rite of Rebirth. He had yet to hear back from the Death Knight if his mission was a success. He expected to have heard something by now, but silence made his frustration grow. He was sure their accomplices within the monastery would give them passage into the mausoleum, but there was still the retrieval of what was kept there. He did not need Zinzolin to confirm his suspicions about that. The man was useful, but only for certain things.
The flap to his tent opened and he was about to lash out for someone disturbing him, but calmed down when he saw who it was. A man in black, spiked armor entered. His face covered by a skull shaped mask, adorned with two horns. Ghetsis let a pleased smile come to his face, Death Knight had returned.
"I was wondering when you'd report back." Ghetsis took a moment to study the man. He took note that he did not carry with him what he had asked for. "Yet you arrive empty handed. I do believe my information was correct."
The armored man was silent. His breathing accentuated by mask.
"Does the silence mean you failed?" Ghetsis asked, tightening the grip of his fist.
Death Knight took in a breath and released it. "There has been a new development."
Ghetsis could feel a vain in his head beginning to pop. "What kind of development?"
"Within the coffin there was a sword. The Sword of the Creator to be precise."
All the anger growing within Ghetsis slowly began to dissipate. He let himself sink into his chair and a surprised expression to form on his face. That was unexpected. The fact that Rhea kept both the sword and stone sealed together baffled him. He was sure she would have buried one of the artifacts so deep no one could find it.
However, there was still the matter that Death Knight had returned without the stone and the sword.
"That does not answer why you are empty handed."
"The daughter of the mercenary Jeralt claimed it before I could."
"I'm sure you could have taken it from her," Ghetsis replied.
"The sword reacted to her grip. It glowed with power. Even without a crest stone," Death Knight explained.
Ghetsis sat up. Was it possible? Was it possible that she bore a crest long forgotten? It was the only way for the sword to react without a crest stone. If that were true, it would render all his years of grooming useless. If the sword reacted, then did the stone as well? He shook his head. He would not allow for anything to stop him know. He had to be more forceful, now more than ever.
"What of the stone? I asked you to retrieve that specifically," Ghetsis asked.
"Reinforcements from the Church arrived before I could grab it. The students they sent to defend the monastery were better fighters than those Eastern Church fools were ready for. They took too long to break the seal."
Ghetsis put a hand to his chin. "I see. We'll have to use our next opportunity to retrieve the Dark Stone."
"What of the Light Stone? It sits unguarded in the Cathedral."
"It is not unguarded. The fact that Rhea is there is guard enough," Ghetsis replied. "We'll seize both stones when the time comes. Though we will need Kyurem's strength to get them."
"Will both she and Kyurem be ready by then?" Death Knight asked.
"You dare question the plan? My plan? My vision for this world?" Ghetsis replied.
"…I do not."
"Good. Now return to your station, for the next phase of the plan will soon be in motion and your expertise will be required," Ghetsis said.
"Yes, my lord." Death Knight bowed slightly and exited the tent.
When he exited, Ghetsis sighed and sat back in his chair. Despite having all the pieces in motion, the plan was still moving slowly. There were parts out of his control, but everything was still moving according to his design.
Though, now there was the child of Jeralt to contend with. If she truly wielded the Sword of the Creator's power without a crest stone, it meant she bore the Crest of Flames; just like she did. If the stone called out to her then that would make things even more difficult. If she were to summon Zekrom instead of her, then he would need to somehow have her summon Reshiram. After all, she bore both crests. With their power one of the two dragons would come to her.
There was also N. Ghetsis wanted him to summon Reshiram. He bore a crest that could summon both as well, but his bloodline was known for being able to call upon Reshiram. He had kept his origins a secret for a long time. Now that he was at Garreg Mach, the possibility of learning the truth grew larger everyday. N still played a role in the plan, whether he was aware of it or not. Ghetsis still needed him to summon Reshiram. Once that was done, he could be cast aside. Everyone he used had a purpose, and once that purpose was complete they would be cast aside. Two were soon to be discarded. How long he had waited for that to happen.
However, there was still preparations to be made. One of those required a special set of skills, and they were completely loyal.
"Kage."
In a gust of wind, a young man with white hair appeared in front of Ghetsis. He knelt before him, which pleased Ghetsis immensely.
"Yes, master?"
"I have an assignment for you."
Kage's head bowed deeper. "What do you need of me?"
"Zinzolin is enacting his plan to find the splicers soon. I want you to keep watch and make sure everything goes accordingly. Keep watch over N and the child of Jeralt in particular. I want to know of their growth in their abilities."
"It will be done master."
"Make sure the splicers come into our possession. Should the Church get them, our plan will not succeed," Ghetsis said.
"You vision will not be sullied, master."
In a gust of wind, Kage disappeared. If anyone could make sure his plans ended in success, it would be him. Ghetsis trusted Zinzolin, but the man was too short-sighted. Only looking for more glory with success. He followed the plan, but only to further his own status. Kage and the two other members of the Shadow Triad, meanwhile, followed his order without quesiton and without another motive. He could trust them implicitly.
Ghetsis stood up from the chair and walked towards the exit of his tent. He had to check on Anthea and Concordia. Those two were the key to Kyurem and he had to make sure they were still on task. They would be the ones to take N's place in that regard.
Ghetsis smiled to himself. Things were still going according to plan and soon everything would fall into place.
—-
"Are you certain everything is in place?"
Zinzolin had heard rumors of the place called Abyss, but to actually be standing in it felt odd. The place beneath the monastery felt like a completely different world to what was atop. The man standing in front of him was the caretaker of Abyss: Aelfric. He was the one who set everything up, as many of the seedier side of Garreg Mach were living beneath it.
Aelfric nodded. "Yes. The splicers will soon be uncovered and our plan can be set into motion. I cannot thank you enough for your gracious assistance."
Zinzolin chuckled. He was pleased that the man knew his place. "Think nothing of it. The pain of your loss is something I feel as well. I hope everything goes accordingly."
"I know it will. I have waited too long for this chance. Thank you for pointing me in the right direction," Aelfric said.
"Then I look forward to your success."
Zinzolin vanished in a cold burst of air, leaving Aelfric alone. Aelfric took in a deep breath and released it. Soon everything will work, he just needed on last thing. He needed the daughter of his beloved. With her everything could begin.
"Are you sure we can trust him?" a voice asked.
Aelfric sighed. "Must you be so distrusting?"
Aelfric turned to where the voice came from and form the darkness of a pillar emerged a purple haired young man. He had a slightly feminine face and wore a dark grey uniform with purple accents. A white-purple cape was thrown over his shoulder. On his wrist he wore a bracelet with a jewel imbedded into it and the jewel had an odd symbol on it. At his side was a white furred creature, with red eyes and a singular, black horn on the side of its head. Its tail was black as well with scythe like shape. Around its neck was a similar jewel to the one the young man had on his wrist.
The young man crossed his arms and shrugged. "Only when I know someone is shady."
"Come now, Yuri. Everything will work out in the end. If Zinzolin betrays us, we can simply eliminate him. He no longer has a use."
"Whatever you say, boss," Yuri replied.
"Now then," Aelfric said as he put a hand on Yuri's shoulder, "we should begin our preparations. We'll be having guests soon."
Yuri rose an eyebrow. "Guests? You bringing more people into Abyss?"
Aelfric chuckled. "You could say that. Just get the others ready."
Yuri was hesitant, but did not show it. He simply nodded and followed the man deeper into Abyss.
AN: Here we have a new chapter and this time we follow the villains. I wanted this chapter to be a breather before the next arc, which is the Cindered Shadows DLC. I hope you look forward to this next arc. Here we also get a bit more from Cynthia. I hope you enjoyed the learning some of her backstory within this story. I wanted her to have a more solid backstory compared to the games. We also get more form Colress and Ghetsis. Since Colress aligns himself with whoever can advance his research, so I want that to be as apparent as possible within this story. As for Ghetsis, I wanted to tease his role within Adestria since Team Plasma took the place of Those Who Slither in the Dark. We'll get more from him as the story goes on. Then there's Kronya. I couldn't think of a good Pokemon character as a replacement so I decided on keeping Kronya as is. However, she is not in her weird form. She is basically in her Monica look for this story. That is why I decided to have her have Zoroark as a partner, as a nod to her shapeshifting powers.
With all that out of the way, I hope you enjoyed this chapter. Next one we return to the monastery and begin the next story arc. I've been looking forward to this one and got some cool stuff planned for the Cinder Shadows arc. You get a tease at the end of this chapter, so I hope it'll hold you over until it's here. Now, I hope you enjoyed this chapter and stay tuned for the next one. If you're enjoying feel free to follow, favorite, and/or review.