Welcome back!

Oh goodie, oh goodie, we're going to advance the plot again! …What's that? You have your hopes lowered because of how much character development has been going on? Psh. That's not, it's…ok, it's a lot. But that's fun, because they're the ones that move the story!

Speaking of, it's time to get that story moving with more character development that leads into more plot development! Whoosh, here we go!

...

[Chesnaught]

Greninja and I watched, but it wasn't the soldiers that came in first. Froslass slowly glided in, letting her arms hang as she drifted through.

"Froslass?"

She blinked and jolted up, then whirling around to face us. I frowned as she lowered her eyes upon meeting mine.

"Oh. Hey."

"Is everything ok?" Greninja stepped forward to her. "Before, with Weavile—"

"Is she ok?"

"She's fine."

"Good."

"But are you?" Greninja tilted his head. "You hurried off before, so we…were pretty worried about you."

"Really?"

"Yeah," I chimed in. "You took off, but you seemed so exhausted before with the bow, or frustrated, and…well, are you sure you're ok?"

"…Yeah, it's…nothing." Froslass shook her head. "Sorry, I feel like I'm all over the place, here!" She forced some laughter, but it died out quickly. "Um…so, do you need anything?"

"About before, I'm sorry," I started. "The other day, I didn't mean to—"

"No, that's my fault for snapping." She shook her head, and lowered toward the ground. "I didn't mean to get frustrated so quickly."

"You had the right to. I judged you."

"And then I did the same to you, so we're even." Froslass smirked at me. "Thanks for the apology, though."

"Same to you."

"Was that hanging on you, then?"

"Oh. No, I…it wasn't that."

"But then what?" Greninja folded his arms. "Froslass, we can help—"

"Sorry, it's just…last night, my books were…um." She shivered and floated away from us. "Sorry boys, I still have some work to catch up on. Take care, see you later!"

Forcing a shrill giggle as she flew away, Greninja took a few steps after her, but stopped as she disappeared. He deflated and walked back to me.

"Something is wrong with her," he murmured.

"Yeah, but what?"

"It must be connected to what's bothering Weavile," determined Greninja. "They're both acting off today."

"They were both exhausted," I recalled. "But…does Froslass really need to sleep that much? Or is she just lacking energy? I'm not sure if it works the same as it does with Weavile, so…"

"Maybe." Greninja tapped his foot. "She mentioned the brothers had similar issues."

"And Delphox."

"Right. Maybe we'll try to practice with them?"

"Aha, there you two are!" We blinked at one another and turned as Alakazam walked over. He grinned and twirled his mustache around. "So, how was it with Carracosta's mystery lover?"

"Great, honestly," admitted Greninja. "But, that's all we can tell you."

"Dear Greninja, you may be able to keep a secret safe." He smirked as his eyes flashed. "But your boyfriend, here…"

"Alakazam, don't…!"

Greninja was too late, and tingling surged through my head. I shuddered and clutched it, as Alakazam blinked.

"A…a husband? And son?" He tugged on his mustache and beamed. "I had no idea! To think, Carracosta has had a family of his own this whole time! His mind was never easy to sort out, and he always seemed to know when I was trying, but goodness, I can't believe—"

"It stays between us!" I clenched my teeth as Alakazam paused and blinked at me. "We…we promised Carracosta…please, don't—"

"Machamp is the last one that will know, and it stays with each of us." Alakazam released his mustache. "My apologies, Chesnaught. I…I shouldn't have done that."

"That's ok."

"No, it's…I do that freely with Machamp, but I shouldn't just tap into anyone else's minds, especially not about something that I know is private." He rubbed his arm and stared at the floor. "Sorry."

"Alakazam, it's ok." I patted his shoulder and he glanced back up as I smiled. "Honestly, Greninja and I probably would have told you or Machamp anyway, on purpose or by accident."

"Perhaps."

"Speaking of, where is your boyfriend?"

"He told me that he'd meet me back in here." Alakazam glanced around and scratched his head. "I wasn't quite expecting to find either of you right away, but—"

"Hey there, everybody!"

We turned back as Machamp ambled over to us, his lower arms behind his back. He waved to Greninja and I with his upper hand, and walked right up to his boyfriend.

"Ah, Alakazam, I brought you some more roses!"

Machamp beamed as he presented the bouquet to Alakazam, with the flowers tied up by a bright blue ribbon and wrapped in darker paper. Alakazam chuckled and grinned as he took them, touching the bits of snow still on the petals and stems.

"They're never going to find me under all of these roses you're burying me in," he teased.

"Hey, you're not the only one with an overcrowded room," joked back Machamp. "You gave me more earlier this week!"

"Ha, well…I am a sucker for true love stories." Alakazam sniffed the roses and lowered his eyes. "As divine as ever."

"Just like you!"

"Oh, Machamp, stop!" He paused and blinked. "Gracious, I sound like a fool."

"Well, before Machamp continues on this tangent with you," I cut in, "you sound fine."

"Ha, yeah…oh, we're meant to get to free training now. Machamp and I were wondering if you two wanted to spar with us?"

"Actually, we were trying to figure out what went wrong with Froslass," pointed out Greninja. "She was just here, but…she flew off in a hurry."

"This is on top of how exhausted Weavile and the brothers were acting before," I reminded.

"And they mentioned that Delphox was worse for wear too," recalled Greninja.

"Then let's put off training and go help them out," decided Machamp.

"Wait, you two don't have to," I insisted. "Delphox is our friend—"

"And the others are our friends," persisted Alakazam. "…Furthermore, you three have been up here more than long enough to have bonds with the rest of us. We're all friends, period. Nothing more needs to be stated on the matter." He smiled and pulled on his mustache. "As I recall, Delphox and Mienshao went with Mewtwo to practice his spell casting, which…I'm not sure if they have, because they should have finished by now."

"Then we'd better find where they would have gone." I rubbed my chin. "Which would be…"

"Mewtwo really enjoys learning about the world's history, cultures, and myths," noted Greninja. "So, I suspect they went to the library again."

"Let's get over there, then!"

"Then get in close," instructed Alakazam.

"Ha, I got that one!"

Machamp pulled the four of us together in his arms, and Alakazam pressed against Chesnaught and I. His eyes lit up and, practically instantly, the hall's banners and decorations disappeared. The many shelves of the library replaced the hall, and we turned around to find Mewtwo glancing up from a book.

"There he is."

"Hello…everyone?" Mewtwo smiled and waved. "This is a surprise. Were you not all practicing for the day?"

"Shouldn't you be?" I shook my head. "Mewtwo, you need to learn how to defend yourself."

"That I am capable of."

"But you need to learn tactics for battle, and how to work with the other soldiers."

"I…do not wish to."

"Huh?" I blinked and stared, as Mewtwo seemed to deflate in his seat. His eyes lowered and he shook his head. "Why not?"

"In all honesty, I would prefer to avoid combat entirely," admitted Mewtwo. "Delphox attempted to work with me earlier, but we did not get much done."

"That's not good, Mewtwo," chimed in Machamp. "Fighting's ugly stuff, but we're looking to keep those less able safe, which is why we practice so much. If we're not in top form, then we can't protect those that we love."

"That…does justify some of it," admitted Mewtwo. "Still…I am afraid."

"What, of fighting?"

"Of taking a life."

Silence enveloped all of us, and I couldn't think of a response for him. Rubbing behind my head, I looked to Greninja, who frowned and shook his head. Neither of us could get an appropriate answer for that, and I doubt that Alakazam and Machamp could either. My attention slipped back to Mewtwo, who became preoccupied with studying the book again, though he wasn't quite reading it.

"From what we know of my abilities, I possess great innate power," explained Mewtwo. "This makes me a formidable weapon and soldier that I am certain any leader would hope to exploit." His eyes narrowed, almost squinting. "Reading about war, I know there are numerous scenarios as to why nations go to war, and how the flow of battle unfolds. But…losing is not an option, as it leads to death of combatants. And…I…I do not wish to have any part in that."

"Well, perhaps you will not," soothed Alakazam. "Since you are here with us, and since we failed to uncover evidence of a prophet, no one really needs to know your strength, and I find no points to there ever being a war." He shrugged and smiled to Mewtwo. "Perhaps everything will be fine."

He lied. Mewtwo smiled and nodded to Alakazam, but I didn't even need to dwell on his words to know the intent. Still, it was better than what I could manage.

"So, where is Delphox, if I may inquire?" Alakazam stroked his mustache. "He was meant to be with you, one way or another, correct?"

"Yes, though…I am not certain. He has been chasing Mienshao around for a while now." Mewtwo tapped his cheek and surveyed each of us. "They were here, but Mienshao insisted on having Delphox help him find optimal places around the palace to take me. I believe they still had the intent of training, but…that opportunity has long since passed."

"Might as well just wait for them to come back here, then," decided Machamp, and he took a seat next to Mewtwo. "What're you reading?"

"Legends and mythologies." Mewtwo tapped on the book in front of him. "This one is about the mythical time traveler."

"Oh, Machamp and I absolutely love that one!" Alakazam hopped into the seat next to Machamp and pointed at the book. "Which story have you gotten to? I love the one where she outsmarts the deceitful shape-shifter."

"What is this about?" I scratched my head. "Time…traveler?"

"Yes, how could you not know? Greninja, you must know, right?" Alakazam gawked as Greninja slowly shook his head. "What?! These are the legends that Machamp and I want to study!"

"Huh?"

"You need to explain it slowly, Alakazam," reminded Machamp. "Even Mewtwo here wouldn't keep up with it."

"Ok—"

"Short version, though." Machamp rested his head on his lower hands. "Not everyone loves listening to you like I do."

"Um…right, condensed version." Alakazam cupped his hands together, inhaled and exhaled. "Ok, so…you two know that Machamp and I have been together since we were children, and how we wanted to become castle soldiers."

"More like how I insisted on being a knight," interrupted Machamp.

"Not that again. I wanted to come with you, darling." Alakazam leaned and rested against Machamp. "That was my choice, period."

"B…ok, yeah."

"So! Before that, Machamp and I also enjoyed learning about different stories for archeology and studying historical locations and potential events that happened around them, as well as confirming different types of myths and legends, either confirming or debunking them."

"Wait, wait." Greninja and I took our seats opposite to the others, and Greninja held his head for a moment. "So…you two would…what, read about legends like this time traveler, and then…go discover if they were true or not?"

"Well, no, not exactly." Alakazam shook his head. "Ones like this are more like fairy tales, ones that are told to capture submersion into riveting tales and expressing a creative flow of different types of adventures that grand heroes could have and the like." Alakazam pointed at the book, still brimming with energy. "However, stories like this do sometimes use or take basis of actual locations, and there are histories and inspirations that are formed about them. It's something that I enjoyed dabbling in, and Machamp would humor me in discovering them."

"Hey, I liked everything too, babe," insisted Machamp. Alakazam shook his head. "Not that one either?"

"Don't worry about the nicknames, dearest." Alakazam patted him. "But yes, you're right. You did have some thrill from it as well."

"Yeah, I did!" He cuddled Alakazam closer. "We could have been a great exploration team ourselves!"

"There are so many stories to uncover as well," expressed Alakazam. "The time traveler, for example, has a sacred cove, or cavern, that she would reside and rest in. Machamp and I wanted to find that one for years, but legends say that it's tricky to get to unless it's necessary." Alakazam shrugged. "I've pondered that one for sometime, but I am clueless to it."

"Ah, quit talking about just that one," Machamp intervened again. "Tell them about those destiny swords, the ones that are protected by a strong guardian and about swords that hold the essence of Types! Each one is supposed to have a different combination, and they have a chamber that they reside in, waiting until a hero comes by to claim the blade!" Machamp grinned. "That's a really cool story too!"

"There are disputed claims of accuracy with that one, mostly because it's been decades since the weapons have been unleashed," divulged Alakazam. "Plus, it's confusing when it's a commander in war that uses a sword, which is meant to hold the powers of an Ice Type, for example, but then they're surrounded by Ice Type soldiers or those that can utilize it intrinsically."

"Yeah, but you can't deny that's an awesome story!"

"Well, it's certainly more fascinating than the ones about gems and jewels that reflect locations of hidden stones that transformer the users based on a single touch, like evolution stones, but something different, temporary." Alakazam tugged on his mustache. "I like those stories too, but going over that is a bore, I'm sure."

"Thus far, I have studied origin myths more than anything," chimed in Mewtwo, "such as the great sky dragon solving the calamity between the land behemoth and the sea leviathan. That one intrigues me, and there are whole religious factions that developed upon following their paths. Its even represented in royal crests."

"Oh, we have one of those in our banners and sigils, yes!" Alakazam clapped his hands together. "Did you go beyond those though? What about the dragons divided by their beliefs? That one inspired so many divergent cultures, but I simply love how it unfolds and how people follow it!"

"Yes, I have read that one as well."

"What about those living monolith golems? That's a fun one," suggested Machamp. "Oh, oh, and that one about the divided lovers between the two kingdoms? That one has some historical accuracies!"

"That is the next one that I am reading."

"Perfect!"

"Um." The three of them blinked and turned to Greninja and I. We exchanged flabbergasted expressions and turned back to them. "So…uh. I didn't get all of that."

"Gracious, we were going off on such prattle," realized Alakazam. "My apologies, Chesnaught, Greninja. These stories are such fun, and Machamp is right about historical accuracies for some of them. We discovered a legend about—"

"How about the one with the roses that spring up up for two lovers?" I pointed to the two of them and smirked. "Wasn't that one a legend you proved?"

"That does qualify, yes!" Alakazam clasped his hands together. "Oh, Machamp, it's like we went right back into those exploration expeditions again!"

"Ha, yeah." He grinned and hugged Alakazam close to him. "I think I should get you back out there some day."

"We can't, not while we're serving Emperor Empoleon." Alakazam tapped on his mouth. "Though, then again, he does have a fascination with these subjects as well, so maybe we could convince him to allow us to uncover more of them."

"He likes them, but he doesn't want to chase after them in the same regard that his ancestors did," reminded Machamp.

"Mm, yes…a subject for another day."

"How about today's subject?"

Greninja and I turned around as Delphox slinked into the room, one hand gripping his head. He shook it and made his way down and over to our table.

"Delphox, are you ok?" Greninja got up and walked over to him. "Weavile told us—"

"That I was an absolute mess, yes," confirmed Delphox. "I haven't been this off in ages."

"Was it only because you couldn't sleep well?"

"Part of it was that," he murmured. "I talked with Mienshao a bit last night, along with some of the others. And then I went down a twisted hallway with sharp, pointy, uh…objects?" He groaned. "I made myself anxious, could've given myself nightmares, and it was all because I let myself have far too much of an overactive imagination."

"Yes, I'm certain several, if not all of us, have been guilty of such," sympathized Alakazam. "Though I wish I could provide a short-term remedy for you and the others, it's best left to you getting more rest later tonight."

"Yeah, that better work," grumbled Delphox. "Mienshao stayed outside later than me, but he managed to get enough rest. And now he's perkier today for it." He scowled. "His jokes are even more annoying than usual."

"Or you're just grouchier." He glowered at me, and I chuckled nervously. "Sorry, you just need sleep, not funny…"

"Ugh."

"Where is Mienshao?"

"Well, he was with me," muttered Delphox. "Mentioned something about needing to check on…something, I don't know. I think he went to see the General or Emperor for it, but I forget."

"Short term memory struggles only help your case for lack of rest and exhaustion," diagnosed Alakazam.

"Thank you, I had no idea."

"Irritableness lines up with that."

"No, really?"

"Lighten up, Delphox!" Machamp leaned back in his seat a bit. "Alakazam and the others are just trying to help."

"Yes, yes, but telling me what I already know isn't helpful," countered Delphox. "It's not like we're going to come up with anything new. Reiterating the process continuously doesn't magically cure me."

"Are you certain that recounting your night won't provide us with new details?" Alakazam lightly drummed the table. "Perhaps we'll notice something that you didn't."

"Alakazam, I appreciate it, I really do," persisted Delphox. "But no, we won't gain anything from this."

"It couldn't hurt."

"Fine. I stayed up too late cleaning with Mienshao. He and I put supplies away, and chatted a bit, along with a few extra interlopers." Delphox squeezed his brow and groaned. "We all went to retire at different times, but all managed to stay up late. I was in a hall, spooked myself, and then couldn't rest immediately. I thought I saw things that weren't there." He glanced at each of us, and realized that we had leaned toward him. "Shadows on the wall, movement of sorts, all of it was probably just moonlight reflecting the wrong way or my overactive imagination stimulated against me. Eventually, I passed out from exhaustion, didn't sleep straight through, and was woken up to work with Mewtwo, who repeatedly refused to train."

"My apologies," offered Mewtwo. "I did explain why."

"And I told you, even if you're not going to fight actively, that's fine," insisted Delphox. "But if you can't use any of that power to defend at least yourself, and on the day that you do run into trouble, your survival isn't guaranteed. It's different from surviving a barren wasteland that's rife with blizzards."

"Mm." Mewtwo sighed and shook his head. "…If it will placate you…"

"Yes, it would, and it should do that for you." Delphox sighed. "Trust me. It's better to know how to save yourself, and if you're gifted in mystic arts as well as you are in inherent prowess, you have a lot of potential. There's good to be done with that."

"Perhaps."

Doors from overhead opened and closed, and everyone turned. Mienshao smirked his weird grin, which…really, it can look creepy sometimes. He made his way to the railing and waved to everyone.

"Goodness, how fortunate to find you all in one spot." He chuckled. "Delphox, has, ah, Mewtwo agreed finally?"

"At the moment."

"Very good. I would like to help you two, if possible." He turned to me, and…winked. "Chesnaught, hi. Emperor Empoleon wishes to speak with you. Throne room."

"Oh, ok."

Standing up, Greninja moved to follow me, as Mienshao cleared his throat.

"Forgive me, I didn't clarify." Mienshao waved his hand and pointed to me. "It's just Chesnaught that the Emperor wishes to speak with, and specifically requested a, hm, private audience."

"Again with this?" Greninja shook his head. "Why does he keep trying to split us up? We're just going to relay the information to each other anyway."

"Maybe it's about me only? Something with training?"

"Why is it private then?" Greninja waited as I shrugged. "Mienshao?"

"Forgive me, but I didn't ask."

"Right." Greninja sighed. "Sorry, that's fine. I'll just…um."

"Look, you can come, and I'll just tell Emperor Empoleon that you'll wait outside."

"No, he would think we're disobeying." Greninja rubbed behind his head. "Even if he doesn't get annoyed at us, I don't want that to reflect poorly on Mienshao."

"Ah, ha, thank you, Greninja!" Mienshao grinned for a moment, and blinked as everyone stared. "S-sorry."

"Still, I don't want to leave you alone again," I persisted.

"Hey, we're all right here," reminded Machamp. "Don't worry about him, we'll keep an eye on your boyfriend!"

"Everyone realizes that I'm a ninja, right?" Greninja fumed and blushed. "I can defend myself."

"Nothing wrong with relying on others," soothed Alakazam. "After all, that's what friends and lovers are for, correct? They share joys and burdens."

"Besides, maybe Delphox can use us to help out with Mewtwo," offered Machamp. "How about it?"

"Aside from Alakazam, the rest of you would amount to targets," quipped Delphox. "Now that you're offering, that might be perfect for his exercises."

"I do not wish to hurt my friends."

"Training doesn't count as hurting them, Mewtwo."

"No."

"Fine, we'll think of something else." Delphox rolled his eyes. "Come on, we've wasted enough time. Go see Empoleon, Chesnaught. Everyone else, come with us, and let's get on with this."

"Hang on, I'll get Chesnaught over to Empoleon first," decided Alakazam. "Faster for me to do it."

"Teleporting again?" Machamp folded his arms. "You better not be wearing yourself out."

"It's not in excessive use over short periods of time, and I've rested." Alakazam smiled. "I'm fine."

"…Ok. But that's it for the day, you hear?"

"I've only done it three or four times."

"That's a lot, and unhealthy."

"It's exerting and exhausting, not…" Alakazam paused and stroked his mustache. "Well, it's not completely lethal."

"Ugh, Alakazam!"

"Jest, I jest, darling." He hugged Machamp. "Don't worry too much about me."

"Clearly, it's never enough."

Everyone stood up and followed Delphox up the stairs to head out. I kissed Greninja's hand as we exited to the hallway, while the others started to split from Alakazam and I.

"So. I'll, uh, give you two a minute."

Alakazam smirked and shuffled a little down the hall, pretending to have his attention fixated on sculptures he's probably seen every day. Greninja rolled his eyes and turned as I rested my hand on his shoulder.

"As soon as I'm done, I'll come find everyone." I smiled. "It's probably nothing."

"Yeah." He folded his arms and lightly exhaled. "I just don't understand it."

"Then I'll ask." I shrugged. "I'm sure he'll explain."

"He will." Greninja blinked and scowled. "He'd better."

Chuckling, I kissed his cheek again and waved as he followed the others out. Alakazam coughed as I walked over to him.

"You know, you're my second friend that sucks at being secretive."

"What?" He blinked and tried brushing his mustache to hide his guilty smile. "I have no idea what you mean. I was just waiting."

"And eavesdropping."

"Me? How undignified, I would never." Alakazam paused and a small chortle escaped him. "That bad?"

"Definitely so."

"Ah well." He chuckled. "You two were being cute, I couldn't resist."

"Right."

"Come, come, let's get you over there."

"Actually."

"Hm?" Alakazam raised an eyebrow to me. "What is it?"

"…About the, uh…the roses."

"Yes?"

"Well, it's…" I hesitated. "They're supposed to bloom fully for a couple that have a strong enough bond—"

"Nigh impossible, correct."

"Yeah, so it…" I frowned and deflated. "Am I not good enough for Greninja?"

Blinking, Alakazam folded his arms and studied me in quiet contemplation for a minute. I shifted my eyes back and forth and returned my attention to him.

"W-what?"

"Why would you honestly think that you're not good enough for him?" Alakazam tilted his head. "You're the one dealing with his ex-boyfriend."

"Well, I don't have mine here, so—"

"That's besides the point." He frowned. "Why are you suddenly feeling an inferiority complex to him?"

"…It has to be me," I decided. "Greninja's very trusting and loving. I…I'm the one getting jealous more often."

"Unfortunately for you, that's because you're in environments where your boyfriend is considered the more attractive," determined Alakazam. "I'm fairly certain it would be balanced between you two if the bear knights were still here." He smiled again. "Furthermore, my entire relationship with Machamp was strained because of my jealousy. So, if anything, that's not a major factor."

"But then…" I sighed. "Why wouldn't it bloom for us?"

"Honestly, I'm not certain." Alakazam frowned again. "To be perfectly truthful, I'm baffled as to why they grow around Machamp and I."

"Haven't you two ever dated anyone else?"

"No, neither of us."

"Maybe that's it?"

"Perhaps so."

We thought alone for a moment, but Alakazam shook his head.

"This is a discussion for another day. You and I are both going to be late if we talk any longer."

"But you can—"

"Even in a flash, we can still fall behind quickly." Alakazam clasped his hand to my shoulder. "Now, hold still."

In an instant, the hall was swept away, and immediately replaced by the doors to Emperor Empoleon's throne room. Alakazam released me and I shook my head, the room spinning a bit.

"Sorry." He patted me. "Perhaps teleporting a bit too much is rough on those less used to it. I forget, honestly."

"No problem." I chuckled. "I think the room's slowing down again."

"Ha, certainly." He laughed as well. "Anyway, just knock on the door first. He might be speaking with someone else, and it's better to avoid an unwarranted interruption. He'll call you in."

"Thanks." I waved as he stepped back. "See you guys soon."

With a nod, Alakazam teleported and disappeared. Spinning back to the door, I raised my hand and hesitated. Shaking my head, I held it for a second, and then knocked on the door before me. I waited, but Empoleon didn't call out, so I just stood by the door for a bit.

It creaked open as Poliwrath and Politoed slipped out, both with very strained eyes. I opened my mouth to ask them about it, but they door shoved closed, and its boom interrupting me.

"Hey, uh, Chesnaught." Poliwrath waved. "Hope you're well."

"Hi guys." I folded my arms. "Everything ok?"

"Yeah, sort of." Politoed yawned. "We just…might have…had an accident and got sent to the Emperor for bad behavior."

"Are you guys fighting with each other again?"

"No. Well, we were, but sparring, not the usual thing." Poliwrath rubbed his hands together. "We haven't argued all day today."

"Oh. That's good."

"Listen, we didn't apologize well enough yesterday." Poliwrath dropped his hands. "We're sorry about the crass comments to Greninja."

"It's—"

"Don't try downplaying it," interrupted Politoed. "We were gross, and we heard about him dealing with Golduck before we went to bed. That sucks."

There was nothing to contribute to that, so I nodded.

"It's not only for that though," continued Poliwrath. "We were still asinine on our own, and that's really against knight code."

"They're more guidelines—"

"Politoed, come on."

"Sorry. Poliwrath and I were talking about it earlier, and we actually got into fights over stealing one another's crushes and partners," elaborated Poliwrath. "So, if anything, we should get it better than we did."

"As long as you guys will back off, we won't have a problem," I caved.

"Done deal." Poliwrath folded his arms and nodded. "We'll leave him be, honest."

"Besides, he looks better with Chesnaught anyway." Politoed tapped his cheek. "Come to think of it, I don't know why we focused only on Greninja."

"Brother, come on."

"What? You're thinking it too, don't lie to me." He got in front of his brother's face. "We're twins, remember?"

"Stop acting like we're the same in everything."

"No, we're not." Politoed turned back and eyed me. "But on some things? I'm pretty sure we agree."

"This is literally the opposite of what we literally promised," managed Poliwrath, his face a bit red.

"Ok, ok, last time, I mean it. Sorry again, Chesnaught." He waved. "We'll see you later, then! Come on, Brother."

"Oh, don't you, 'Come, Brother,' me! You're the one making mischief!"

"It's usually you."

"No it's not!"

"Whatever, I'm too tired for this."

"Wait, that!" I pivoted around to them as they stopped and turned back. "Weavile and Delphox mentioned you two weren't doing so well this morning either."

"Huh?" Poliwrath rubbed behind his head. "Oh, that. We just stayed up late."

"Why though?"

"Um, we were talking with each other." Politoed poked his hands together. "Don't laugh, but we heard noises while we were alone last night. Poliwrath heard something in the armory, and I heard noises outside of our room."

"Noises?"

"Stuff that sounded like it fell over and crashed," clarified Poliwrath. "But, when we checked, everything seemed in order. And we stayed up calming each other down when I got back to our room."

"It's weird, because we both had similar issues, but we just figured that we were hearing things." Politoed put his hands behind his head. "It wouldn't be the first time we were crashing before we crashed for the night."

"But neither of you found anything?"

"Nope."

"Nothing."

"That's…stranger than what Delphox explained." I scratched my chin and pondered. "I…well, thank you both. Is there anything I can help you with?"

"Go see the Emperor before we get in trouble for that too."

"Ah, yeah, right."

We waved to one another and they stumbled away. I turned back and knocked again.

"Enter," boomed Empoleon.

Pushing the door open, I stepped inside the throne room. Blinking, I shuddered and walked across the room. Catching myself, I stopped halfway in, walked around the fountain in the center, and bowed. I half waited for the retort to not bow, but that only ever came from Nidoking. Rising, I hurried down and made my way to Empoleon's throne, bowing once more.

"Welcome, Chesnaught." The penguin stood from his icy cerulean throne and stepped forward on the iceberg. "How goes training?"

"Oh, uh…well, so far."

"Good." He folded his wings behind his back. "So then, aside from archery, what have you worked on today?"

"Um…I practiced with an axe, and practiced doubles with Greninja against Machamp and Alakazam?"

"Interesting. Delibird just took inventory not too long ago, and reported that no axes had been used today."

Pressing and sucking my lips together, I waited in silence for a moment. Empoleon's deep blue eyes fixated on me, and I wanted for his face to contort with a new expression. Anger, frustration, disappointment…but he showed nothing.

"Sire, I'm sorry." I rubbed my arm. "Greninja and I were supposed to train with the others, but we were caught up with helping Mewtwo, and then we tried to see what was bothering Delphox, and then Mienshao had me come here before I could help anyone else with practice, so I didn't mean to slack or anything, but—"

"Relax, Chesnaught." His command carried with the vacancy of the room and rang out. I shuddered and let my mouth close. "If I summoned you here to scold you, I wouldn't bother dragging it out or toying with you."

"Then…why did you summon me, Your Majesty?"

"Why indeed."

My head jerked back from that, and I raised an eyebrow. He stepped from his icy plateau, and walked down, gazing down at the lower tier of his throne room. I followed his gaze to the fountain, but his footsteps forced my attention back to him.

"Tell me, why were you the leading choice?"

"Excuse me?"

"Nidoking chose you first of three sent up here," reminded Empoleon. "He very specifically selected you above all others. Greninja followed more as someone to accompy you, not because he fit better. Delphox was to give us a more balanced selection, a favor that I realized in hindsight that I didn't quite return. But I digress." He stared right at me once more. "Why you, the sturdy Grass Type, weakened by the bitter cold?"

"I…I've been managing." I frowned as my shoulders sank. "We do get some snow down in Grass Fields."

"Nothing compared to here." Empoleon shook his head. "You weren't sent here because you were able to withstand the harsher climates."

"My…my former king," I winced as those words left my mouth, "he, uh, he thought that I would be a better selection for more…diplomatic negotiations and relations."

"Hmm." He tapped a wing against his beak. "Why is that?"

"Oh, uh…w-well." I shrugged. "I'm not exactly the best for that sort of thing. But, compared to the other knights, from Grass Fields, I guess…I fit what they wanted to represent?"

"And you've come to the conclusion that you represent…?"

"A strong ally and one that's interested in maintaining peaceful relations between my former and current kingdoms?"

"Is that a question, or are you certain of it?"

"Oh, n-no, I…I'm certain."

"Mm." He closed his eyes and nodded. Pivoting away, he walked back toward his throne. "This, I suppose, is a fair ideal."

"Your Majesty, if I've failed you—"

"No, no." He turned and stepped away from the throne. "All three of Nidoking's soldiers have been a boon, greatly aiding in our Empire's growth." He nodded again. "I see my army less afraid to bond with one another now. They're not just tied to individuals, but they're finally more concerned with one another as a whole." Empoleon stared at me again. "Tell me, through your day today, has anyone expressed concern for any others?"

"Well, yes." I drummed lightly at my thighs. "Some of the soldiers didn't get adequate rest last night, so we've talked to a few of them, seeing if we could help."

"Simple issues with simple solutions."

"Somewhat."

"In a grander scheme of the world, they are." Empoleon shook his head. "And yet, prior to your arrival, unheard of. My troops were far less concerned with establishing bonds to each other. Why bother? Mortality rates here are low."

"Can be low, Sire."

"See, that. There's this…odd hopefulness, optimism in you." He chuckled. "You, on a quick study, appear to be the weakest suited out here. And yet, I believe, you are actually the strongest."

"Th…thank you, Milord."

"It's you who deserve thanks." Empoleon released his wings. "You, Greninja, even Delphox, the three of you…something about your presence changed my Empire, and for the better."

"You're…welcome? Y-you're welcome."

"Peace, and at ease." Listening, I exhaled a breath that I hadn't realized I held. "I still need to learn as well. I'm much too reserved, far too strict, and perhaps even haughty over it."

"Maybe you just need to soften up more." I shrugged. "It's ok to open up to your subjects, you know."

"Yes…I always considered that a fault on Nidoking's part." He sighed. "He was always so much closer to his soldiers, his citizens. I figured it was because of his attachments when he was younger, and that he was just easily submitted to his wife's whims." Empoleon held his wings against his head. "Yet, I did envy that about him as well. As weak as I figured it made him, he never had a want for love. Not of the heart, but a wider sense." The Emperor nodded. "I understand now, better than ever, it was what made him stronger."

"You…act as if you don't know love, Emperor."

"No, my problem is that I do know love, but don't express it well enough." Empoleon returned to a sullen look. "Being a leader has, perhaps…hardened me."

"Work on lowering your guard, Sire." I smiled. "You're very intelligent, so just imagine how much more likable you could be if you mixed emotion in with that."

"It would make me…vulnerable."

"True. But it would help others understand you better." I nodded. "We want to."

"…Yes. Perhaps."

Silence overtook us once more. He wasn't so far away, and yet it felt impossible to reach him. I never really took note of his outfits, and wearing the dark blue cape over his black uniform swallowed most of him away. It could be a small but strong place to start.

"You know," Empoleon interrupted my thoughts. "I had actually asked you in here to discuss a theory that I had."

"About Nidoqueen's death, Milord?"

"What? No, Greninja should have shared that with you by now." He turned and blinked at me. "He did, didn't he?"

"Um, yes."

"Then what use would there be treading through explored waters?"

"Uh—"

"Don't think that hard." He shook his head. "Previous generations of my family were, ah, captivated by legends of the region, and I decided that you might fit one accordingly."

"Me?"

"Most likely." Empoleon tapped a wing against his beak. "It's a tale about swords that hold powers of the different Types known to our world."

"Ah, Machamp was explaining that to me before."

"Oh." His shoulders seem to fall from that. "So…you know the story, then."

"Sort of? We touched on it, not detailed."

"Hmm." Emperor Empoleon perked up a bit again. "Perhaps I could go over it more at length with you, then."

"At length…?"

"There are legends and stories written of these swords, more recently, but they seem to have some persistence through history." Empoleon tapped on his beak. "They're legendary weapons that host the powers of different Types combined within them. Less common combinations make them up, typically, from what I've studied. Fire and Grass, for example, are not commonly associated as Type combinations for any known species, but are rumored to be one for these swords."

"How many are there? Nine?"

"Of the known Types now, yes, that would be an accurate number." He nodded. "I've gone over this with Nidoking before, so I suspect he knows more about this than he's explained to you."

"King Nidoking knows this story?"

"Yes, of course." Empoleon frowned. "He and I were friends, some time ago. Never close, but we've…shared stories, at least. And his would be the first of the other three kingdoms that I would ally with, easily."

"Right."

"Anyway, these swords are not on the same level as the Prophet of legends, the one that can literally foretell the tide of battles to come and beyond," disclosed Empoleon. "But, they are mighty, and offer severe advantages to those in combat against average forces." He sighed. "I feel as though my Empire is the only one that has not even been graced with the opportunity to brew an experience featuring such swords. Grass Fields have had whispers spread across the kingdom, the deserts regaled the legends as well, but the Mountains, more than the others, have spoken plenty in favor of these blades."

"But, are they real?"

"Of that much, I am not certain." He shrugged. "I have not personally encountered such. Though, if it's so persistently spoken of, with live accounts of it, I can't imagine that many people would be lying about them." Emperor Empoleon walked back to his throne, quietly staring at it. "There are claims that only those with valiant hearts, strong convictions and morals, those are the types that can wield these weapons. Heroes, some call them."

Turning back to me, his blue eyes pierced right into mine. There was some kind of concentration in him, and I wasn't sure if it was something good.

"This is why I summoned you."

"Huh?"

"To tell you all of that, this is why you are here."

"…Uh…you…wanted me to know this?"

"Yes."

"…Why?" I nervously chuckled. "Do you think I'm one of these heroes?"

"Indeed."

"Wait, what?"

"At first, I thought Greninja had the makings of such," assessed Empoleon. "He was inspiring enough to create changes that I wouldn't have considered. After all, he demonstrated himself to me as an assassin with a controlled urge to refrain from killing upon command. Those are rare, are they not?" He chuckled. "It made sense when I first assumed it, but that you influenced his behaviors, that you inspired your king to favor you and send you here…those favor your potential for it."

"Honestly, Sire, they both just like me a lot."

"And how about how you've inspired my soldiers, in the short span that you've spent here comparatively?"

"Well…I mean, that's…" I scratched behind my head, unable to explain it.

"You have strong conviction, and you're a type that people want to believe in, to follow." Empoleon nodded. "I think, if these legends are true, that you would be the best fit to wield such a weapon."

"Me?" I shook my head. "Sir, that just…that sounds so…I don't think it could be true, and certainly not for me. I'm not that…I'm not some hero like that."

"Maybe not." He returned his wings behind his back. "Maybe my experiences with folks that have your personality, at least up here, are limited." He pivoted away from me. "Should I be right though, it's something that's worth looking into."

"It would be awing to even so much as see a sword that holds the essence of Types," I confessed. "But…we don't even know if they exist."

"That we do not." He shook his head. "But, perhaps in time, we can look into it." He laughed. "My grandfather was considered crazed for spending so much time searching for truth in such myths, and my father struggled to deal with that as part of his upbringing. I vowed to never go that far over myself, but here I am, so much as suggesting that there's truth or purpose behind such stories." Empoleon's laughter softened. "My wife would think me something of a fool, I'm sure, but my son would be riveted by such tales."

His laughter died off sharply after he thought of them, and I waited in silence with him. Emperor Empoleon exhaled for half a minute, and then grasped his throne.

"…How long—?"

"Years." He shook his head. "The prince of this Empire, my son, grows without me, without my influence or guidance. My wife lives somewhere far without my knowledge, and I can only pray for both of their safe returns some day."

"Why not send away for them?" I stepped forward. "Why not have them return home soon, Emperor?"

"Not an option," he snapped. More softly, he continued, "I don't…I don't want to endanger them. Your Queen, she was…I believe she was murdered, though I have no defined proof." Empoleon shook his head. "But if I'm so adamant with that, if I think it even has a chance of being true, then I simply cannot risk that threat unfolding with my own family."

"But, Emperor," I persisted, "there has been no war. No threats against your Empire. Sure, we had some mercenaries come and try to claim the Prophet before, but now that we know Mewtwo isn't this seer, why not just send word out? Why not explain that there is no Prophet here?" I smiled. "Surely, that would eliminate interest to the Iceberg Empire, and we would be safe from the possibility of war. Your family would be able to return home safely, and you can see them again."

Once more, silence filled the room. I rubbed my hands together, getting colder by standing in mostly the same place for far too long. Empoleon spun back to me, smiling more genuinely than I think I've ever seen him.

"Do you…do you think that would work?"

"What else would there be a need to come after this place?" I folded my arms. "I think that we can have this settled in a month, if the messages get out there quickly."

"Just one more month…" Empoleon held his chest. "And then I could…have my family back again."

"Carracosta struggles with it while his family is here in the city," I noted. Empoleon gave a bewildered expression, but I shook my head. "I know that you know about them. He constantly worries for their discovery and their ties to him. And yet, he feels awful for you more than himself." My shoulders dropped. "Your Majesty, you must at least consider that this must change. Your Empire is brimming with fear. I think that this is the best way to get things to develop for the better." I smiled to him again. "And I think that, if you really want to understand love again, if you want to soften from being so hard and rigid all of these years, having them return to you is your best bet."

"…Now I understand why Nidoking chose you." He laughed and nodded. "Maybe, considering the truth to your words…now might be the time. Change shouldn't be feared. Love shouldn't be feared." His eyes narrowed. "My Empire shouldn't be—"

A boom rang out from across the throne room, as the doors were bashed open. Empoleon actually jumped, and I whirled around, watching Mienshao come rushing across the room.

"Forgive me, Your Majesty, do forgive me," he called out, running past the fountain.

"Mienshao, what is the meaning—?"

"Milord, it's urgent." Mienshao panted and clutched at his chest. "Emperor, there are soldiers just outside the city, they were spotted. They foreign banners, they…they have weapons."

My heart plummeted from whatever height it was reaching, and I dropped my arms. Turning back to Empoleon, I watched whatever hope had entered his eyes vanish, as a cold and calculating gaze studied us, and then the floor. He shook his head and stared at Mienshao once more.

"Sound the bells, and make sure the city is alerted." His posture straightened. "We're under attack, and we'll need to prepare for war."

If the room could have gotten colder, it would have.

...

And you were worried at the end of the last chapter. Haha.

Yes, prepare for combat to unfold as the closing arcs of this story come in. Hey, I've been mentioning it for long enough, did you really think this story would end without it finally happening? Surprise, then.

That doesn't mean it's something that anyone was really looking forward to. Mewtwo in particular doesn't like the idea of fighting at all, and actively avoided it for a while. Probably not the best idea, since, you know. But hey, he's an innocent guy that's just getting in touch with the world, so, he wasn't exactly expecting anything serious. Whoops.

And poor Empoleon. He was so close to opening up emotionally, and so close to finally giving the orders to have his family come back, so close to not being thrust into war…if only. Oh well, he's got the brains for this, right? Surely he can handle…another who-knows-how-long until he can see his family again, yeah? Sure he can, he's the Emperor!

Anyway, besides me tormenting my lovely characters, including an attempt to make people like the Poli bros again, yes! More fun lore for the world, focusing a little more on myths…or not? That sword story seems pretty interesting to follow, doesn't it? Not that anything will come of that anytime soon. Just, you know, it's something to think about, probably.

Next chapter begins the siege of the Iceberg Empire! It's gonna be great, it's gonna be great, it's gonna be…you know what, forget it, I'm hyping this up, and I have no idea if I can really deliver on that. Let's just know that it'll change the course of expectations for the story, hopefully, and stuff will happen. That'll be fun.

Feedback is super lovely and helpful to me, so if you can, please do share some of your thoughts! Kinda crave them, not gonna lie. Messages or reviews are certainly wonderful. Comments, criticisms, and questions are always welcomed, so feel free.

Once more, thank you again for reading!