A Trainer Journeys In Grace

by Terraspace81

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

22. Chapter 22

Hello everyone, sorry for the wait, many things to do, so many tests, so little time, any way time to start the Little Queen Arc. Now here's chapter 22.

Chapter 22

The Prime Serpent Path

In the flower field. A woman with long light purple hair, was playing with four kids, and four little Pokemon.

One of the kids looked like Asbel when he was kid, with Cheria's hair color, and he had a Yamper with him.

Another kid looked exactly like William when he was a kid, with green hair, but wearing the same outfits Asbel did when he was a kid and had a Mudkip with him.

Another kid was a girl that looked like a kid version of Alice, with blue hair and had a Ducklett with her.

The last kid was another boy that looked like Hubert when he was a kid, but had red hair and had a Slugma with him.

Watching over them was old and worn out Golurk, who was sitting nearby watching them.

Soon they all stopped playing, and the woman took a seat in front of Golurk, with the kids, Yamper, Mudkip, Ducklett, and Slugma looking at her. (Here.) Golurk said to the woman, handing her a book. "Thank you." The woman said to Golurk, taking the book and opening it.

"Once there was a young boy who discovered a lost seed, a traveler, and an amazing creature. He traveled the world with the traveler trying to find a plant and the seed, along the way he found his own amazing creature. When he was done, he chose to plant the seed in his yard and he took care of it every day. Over time, the lost seed grew up and blossomed into a beautiful flower. What do you think happened to the seed after that? It turned into a bright, shining star that watched over everyone! And fought in the darkest moment of our world, when green flames threaten to burn everything. This was its way of thanking the boys who had been so very kind to it. Which star was it? Well… it's the one we all know best. Our favorite star of all…" The woman asked the kids., as she looked at the tree, with Lambda and Agate written on the tree.

A YEAR AFTER LAMBDA AND AGATE WHERE STOPPED.

Asbel, Yamper, Golurk, and Sophie, with Sophie wearing new armor. Her new armor looked like a white jacket, with pickpockets and fluffy pink shoulders. Armbands that covered her palm to her elbow. And white boots.

The four of them were in front of Asbel's family grave, leaving flowers for Asbel's father. "It's already been a year since my father died. So much has happened. I wonder what he would think of it." Asbel said to everyone. "There are lots of flowers." Sophie said, looking at the grave. "I think just about everyone in Lhant brought some here." Asbel said to everyone.

(Well you did have a ceremony for him last night.) Boltund said to Asbel. "There's still much for me to learn as a lord, but I'll do my best. Just as my father did." Asbel said to everyone. (I'm sure he would be proud of you.) Boltund said to Asbel. "Rest in peace, Dad." Asbel said to the grave.

"Are you sad, Asbel?" Sophie asked Asbel. "No, I'm actually all right. All people die. Maybe tomorrow, maybe years from now, but it happens to everyone. And I understand that now." Asbel said to everyone. "All people must die eventually…" Sophie said.

"But still, I can't help having regrets. I wish we would have talked more. I wish he could see what Hubert and I have become. So I guess I'm sad about that." Asbel said to Sophie. That's when Asbel's name appeared on the tombstone.

That's when everything went gray, and Sophie found herself in front of someone that looked like a forest fairy, with crystals on her, white skin, purple eyes, and purple hair that reached her shoulder.

"What will you do… When everyone else is dead? A female voice asked Sohpie. Huh?!" Sophie asked, looking around for the sources of the voice. That's when she looked at the stranger.

"Sophie?" Asbel said, snapping her back to reality. "Is something wrong?" Asbel asked Sophie. "Did you just see…" Sophie asked Asbel, before a gust of wind. "I must have been dreaming…" Sophie said to everyone. "I've never heard of anyone dreaming while they're still wide awake. Sounds like you were out last night." Asbel said to Sophie.

(Was she?) Boltund asked Golurk. (How would I know? I sleep outside.) Golurk said to Asbel. "Come on, let's go back. You probably just need a nap or something." Asbel said to Sophie, as they started to walk back to the manor.

As they walked through Lhant, they noticed that Lhant was all fixed and cleaned up, with people and Pokemon living in peace. Once they reached the manor, Sophie noticed some of the flowers had wilted and walked to them. This made Asbel, Boltund, and Golurk stop and look at her.

"They're dead." Sophie said to everyone, making them walk to Sophie. "It can't be helped, Sophie. Their time was just up." Asbel said to Sophie. "Can't be helped." Sophie said to them. "Don't worry. You took great care of them, and they left lots of seeds. They'll bloom again next year." Asbel said to Sophie. "Asbel, I was wondering…" Sophie asked Asbel, but was interrupted.

"There you are, Asbel! You're not getting away from me today." Kerri said, as she walked out of the manor. With Kerri was Alice, who was now wearing blue Lhant knight armor, Swanna, and Friderick. And with them were two new Pokemon.

Near Frederic, was a small dark purple creature standing on two legs, with white paws for feet, wide hips, two arms with three white fingers, a round head, gray eyes, white fur around it's belley, neck, mouth, and eyes, and two croissant like horns on its head. This was a male Indeedee.

With Kerri, was a plant creature. That looked like a little lady in a plant dress, with a big round blossom lower half, four green slippers, two leave arms, a white body and face, orange eyes, long hair that looked like a leaf, a massive orange flower on its head with a pollon pistols that makes it look like it was a crown. This was a female Lilligant.

"Hello, Mom." Asbel said to Kerri. 'Ugh. Not this again…' Asbel thought, as Kerri and everyone with her walked to Asbel. "You're nearly 20 years old. It's time for you to start thinking about marriage. "Look, I keep telling you: it's too soon." Asbel said to Kerri. "Oh, nonsense! Isn't that nonsense, Frederic?" Kerri said to Asbel, and asked Frederic.

"Lady Kerri is most correct, Master Asbel." Frederic said to Asbel. "You must find a wife to bear you a child, so that the family name might live on." Kerri said to Asbel. (You know it's talk like that, that makes Asbel so nervous about finding a wife.) Boltund said to Kerri. "I know! I know all that." Asbel said to Kerri.

"If you really knew, I wouldn't be forced to keep reminding you, would I? And yet you seem to find one excuse after another." Kerri said to Asbel. (She has a point.) Lilligant said to Asbel. (Not helping Lilligant.) Swanna said to Lilligant. "Look, it's just-." Asbel said to Kerri, but Kerri interrupted her.

"You already have multiple offers to choose from! Why not find a girl you like and at least meet with her?" Kerri asked Asbel. "Master Asbel!" A voice said to Asbel. (We have a problem.) A male Pokemon voice said. That's when everyone noticed Bailey and a Pokemon running up to them.

This Pokemon looked like a giant black and white monkey, with a very long fluffy tail, a melon on its head like it was a helmet, and leaves on its right shoulder like it was a team symbol. This was a male Passimian

"What is it?" Asbel asked. "Those monsters are attacking the eastern highroad! Please, come quickly!" Bailey said to Asbel. (The troop is holding it back for now. But they're losing ground.) Passimian said to Asbe. "Right. We're on our way! Sophie, Alice, Boltund, Golurk, Swanna, with me!" Asbel said to everyone, as they started to run.

After a bit, Asbel, Sophie, Alice, Bailey, Boltund, Golurk, Swanna and Passimian, reached the cabin, and found some Lhant knights and some Passimian facing a few of the Blue human riding bird copies that Lambda and Agate made a year ago, protecting a man and a Loudred.

"We've got this! Boltund use Electro Ball." Asbel said, as they charged at the monsters. (Passimian, could you give me an opening?) Boltund asked Passimian, as he formed a ball of electricity. (You got it. Iron Head.) Passimian said to Boltund, as his head turned silver and rough.

Passimian then jumped up and tried ramming his head into a blue copy. But the blue copy used it's shields to block the attack. But that gave Boltund a chance to move behind the blue copy, and fired the electric ball into its back, zapping it, and making it lower its guard. This gave Asbel the opening to finish it.

"Swanna use Scald." Alice said to Swanna. (Right.) Swanna said, as she fired a steam of hot water at a blue copy. The blue copy used its shields to block the water. But that gave Alice and Bailey an opening to come in from behind and finish it.

"Golurk use High Horsepower." Sophie said to Golurk, as she punched a blue copy's shields. Golurk said nothing, and an orange outline appeared on him. Golurk then charged at the blue copy, hitting the blue copy in the side, and sending it flying into a canyon wall, finishing it.

"That's all of them." Bailey said to everyone. That's when they noticed a handful of red copies flying at them. "No. and things are about to get worse." Alice said to everyone. "We can't handle red monsters, and protect the wounded." Asbel said to everyone.

But before the red copies could reach Asbel and the others, something green flew around them, at high speed, and slashed the red copies. This made the red copies fall apart.

That's when the green thing flew to everyone, and landed right in front of everyone, making a dust cloud. When the dust cleared, William, in his Rayquaza form. "Hey Asbel." William said to Asbel. "Always showing off William." Asbel said to William. "You know me. I saw the red copies flying, and thought I could take care of it in a flash. Didn't expect to find you here." William said to Asbel.

"Well glad you made it. I thought you would be back from Yu Liberte later today." Asbel said to William. "Well it didn't take as long in Yu Liberte as I thought it would." William said to Asbel. "What were you doing in Yu Liberte anyway?" Asbel asked William.

"I'll tell you later. For now let's take care of the wounded." William said to Asbel, as he turned back into his normal form, and walked to the man that everyone and Loudred was protecting, with Asbel and Boltund following him.

"Are you okay?" William asked the man, as everyone else took care of the wounded knights and Pokemon. "Y-You saved my life!" The man said to everyone. "Are you hurt?" Asbel asked the man. "No, I'm fine. But the soldiers and Pokemon…" the man said to Asbel, as they noticed Sophie and Alice, treating the wounded.

"Bailey, can your men take him back to Lhant?" Asbel asked Bailey. (Passimian can you and your troop do the same?) Boltund asked Passimian. "Right away, sir." Bailey said to Asebl. (Willdo.) Passimian said to Boltund. That's when a couple knights and Passimian took the man and Loudred away. That's when Bailey and his Passimian walked up to Asbel.

"These monsters have become more active of late." Bailey said to everyone. "I know. Each week seems to bring more of them." Asbel said to Bailey. "I was hoping they'd died down for good." Bailey said to Asbel. "He has a point. After all, Richard and Skarmory have spent a year hunting them. You think they are on their last legs not making a comeback." William said to everyone.

"Increase security on the highroads. We can't afford for anyone else to be hurt." Asbel said to Bailey. "Yes, my lord. I'll send more guards and Passimian right away." Bailey said to Asbel, before he and his Passimian left, with the rest of the knights and Passimian.

This left Asbel, William, Sophie, Alice, and their Pokemon alone. "Well now that's they're gone. I believe you owe me something?" Alice asked William, walking up to William. "Oh, and that is?" William asked Alice, with a smirk. Alice then kissed William on the lips, with William liking it, Sophie was unfazed, the Pokemon giggled a little, and Asbel shook his head.

Then William and Alice finished kissing. "Oh right. That. I think I have a couple more for you." William said to Alice, holding her, making Alice giggle. "Do you two have to do it here?" Asbel asked them, getting a little annoyed.

"What, you jealous, we have each other?" William asked Asbel. "More annoyed. My mom has been pestering me to get married because of you two." Asbel said to William. "Yeah. you're jealous." William said to Asbel, with he, Alice, and the Pokemon laughing at him.

"Anyway. I hope this is the last of it…" Asbel said to everyone, changing the topic. "Let's just head back to Lhant." William said to Asbel, before everyone but Sophie started to walk back to Lhant. "Come on, Sophie, let's get back." Asbel said to Sophie.

But when Sophie didn't move, everyone stopped and looked at her. "Sophie?" William asked Sophie. "Something wrong?" Asbel asked Sophie. Sophie shook her head no. "Okay then." Asbel said to Sophie, as they started to walk back to Lahnt.

"Asbel I don't think Sophie's acting strange?" William asked Asbel, quietly as they walked. "If she says she's fine. She's fine." Asbel said to William, before walking ahead of him. "That's what every troubled person says." William said.

After a bit, they all were in front of the manor. "Asbel?" Sophie asked Asbel, making everyone stop and look at Sophie. "Yeah? What is it?" Asbel asked Sophie. "Are you going to die too?" Sophie asked Asbel. "Am I… what?" Asbel asked Sophie. "Will you go away forever, like your father did? If I protect you, will that keep you alive?" Sophie asked Asbel.

This made Asbel laugh a little, but William kicked him in the legs a little. "Oh, that's… Thanks, Sophie, but dying is something you can't do much about. I could catch some disease, or trip and fall down the stairs, or anything. You know? Even if I live a long life, my time's still going to end eventually." Asbel said to Sophie. "He has a point. No matter what you try, we're all going to die, some of us sooner than others." Alice said to Sophie.

"But you don't have to worry. That's probably decades away!" Asbel said to Sophie. "But that's nothing! Not when time passes so quickly. It wasn't so long ago that you and William used to be shorter than me. And you were a much slower runner then you are now. But I'm still the same. I haven't changed in years. Is it because I'm different from everyone else?" Sophie asked Asbel.

"Well you did skip 7 years. And you're made to blow up. So maybe you haven't lived long enough to grow." William said to Sophie. "But will I be left behind because I'm not human?" Sophie asked everyone.

"Sophie…" Asbel said to Sophie. "I'm sorry, Asbel. I'll see you at home." Sophie said to Asbel, before running inside the manor. "I think she meant, she'll see you inside." William said to everyone. (Well. I'll be in my spot.) Golurk said, as he moved to the side of the manor.

Soon everyone else went into the manor, and was met with Frederic and Indeedee, with Frederic holding a letter on a tray. "I do not wish to pry Lord Asbel, but did you and Sophie have a fight? She fled straight to her room the moment she came home." Frederic asked Asbel. "Sophie." Asbel said, looking at the door to her room.

"Oh, and this arrived while you were out. It's from King Richard." Frederic said to Asbel, handing him the letter. "Richard? I wonder what's up?" William asked, as Asbel opened the letter and read it. "Could you get Bailey and his Passimian for me, Frederic?" Asbel asked Frederic. "Right away, sir." Frederic said to Asbel.

A few minutes later, Asbel, Alice, William, and their Pokemon were waiting in the study around the decks, when Frederic, Bailey, Passimian, and Indeedee walked into the study, with Frederic and Indeedee standing by the door. "What did it say?" Bailey asked Asbel, as he walked up to everyone.

"It's about the recent increase in monster attacks. Apparently, the same thing is happening in Windor, Strahta, and Fendel." Asbel said to Bailey. "Then it's worse than we thought." Bailey said to Asbel. "Looks like it." Asbel said to Bailey. "Do you have a plan, sir?" Bailey asked Asbel.

"Richard thinks he;s found one of the monsters' nests. He's convinced all three countries to join forces and destroy it." Asbel said to Bailey. "So, the letter was a request for your assistance?" Bailey asked Asbel. "Not just me. It was asking for mine, William, Alice, and our Pokemon help. Which means we'll be leaving Lhant for a while." Asbel said to Bailey.

"Then me and Passimian wish you safe travels, Lord Asbel. We'll watch over things in your absence." Bailey said to Asbel. "Thank you, Bailey. We'll head for the capital tomorrow." Asbel said to Bailey. "Understood." Bailey said to Asbel, before bowing and leaving with Passimian.

That's when Frederic and Indeedee walked to Asbel. "Will you be taking Sophie with you, Master Asbel?" Frederic asked Asbel. "Yeah, Richard asked for her too." William said to Asbel. "I'd like to, but… I'm not sure how she's feeling." Asbel said to everyone. "Let's see how she feels in the morning." Alice said to everyone, before they all left, and got ready for their trip.

The next morning, everyone met up in the lobby, and walked into Sophie's room. "Come on, Sophie. Let's get going." Asbel said, as they walked into Sophie's room. But Sophie wasn't in the room. "Sophie?" Asbel asked, as they looked around. "Are you hiding? Come on!" Asbel asked.

"Looks like she and Golurk left." William said, looking out the window, and noticing Golurk wasn't in his spot. "You think we heard Golurk left. He's not exactly the subtle type." Alice said to everyone.

"Isn't it a little early in the morning for all this racket?" a female voice asked them. That's when everyone noticed Kerri, Frederic, Lilligant, and Indeedee standing at the door to the room.

"Sophie and Golurk are gone." Asbel said to Kerri. "Well, don't panic. She probably decided to visit a flower meadow or something of that nature, and Golurk went with her. Leave finding Sophie and Golurk to us. Right now, you all should head to the capital." Kerri said to Asbel.

"But…" Asbel said. "Sir, Daylight is wasting. I promise to devote all our efforts to find her." Frederic said to Asbel. "He's got a point, if we don't leave now. We'll be late for the meeting." William said to Asbel. "I just…" Asbel said to Willim. "It would not be good to keep King Richard waiting, my lord." Frederic said to Asbel.

"You're right, of course. Okay, I'm counting on you." Asbel said to Frederic. "Yes, sir." Frederic said to Asbel. "Well, we're off. See you all later." William said to everyone, as they started to walk. "Asbel?" Kerri asked, making everyone stop and turn to her. "Do think about meeting with at least one young bridal prospect when you return. Mmm?" Kerri asked Asbel.

"Mom, I told you-." Asbel said to Kerri, but Kerri interrupted him. "Unless, of course, your resistance is because you have someone in mind already?" Kerri asked Asbel. "N-No, that's not… I mean, maybe I do, but maybe I… I don't know." Asbel said to Kerri, flustered. This made Kerri, Alice, William, and their pokemon shook their heads.

"Ugh, so indecisive! This is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. So if you have your eye on someone already, I'll burn those other proposals myself!" Kerri said to Asbel.

"Can we please talk about this later? I need to go." Asbel said to Kerri, before leaving, leaving everyone else behind. Kerri tried to say something, but Asbel was out of ear shot. "I'll talk to him." William said to Kerri, as the rest of the group went after Asbel.

Some time later, Asbel, William, Alice, and their Pokemon were on a ship to the capital. While Alice was taking care of the Pokemon, William and Asbel were on the back of the ship talking. "When are you going to tell your mom that you want to marry Cheria?" William asked Asbel.

"What?! Why would you…? How could you….?" Asbel asked William. "Asbel, I've known you for a long time. Well, skipping seven year. But I know enough. And I know you've been having a growing feeling for Cheria." William said to Asbel. "And how would you know that?" Asbel asked William. "After dating Alice, it's easier to see the love in the air." William said to Asbel.

"But what if she doesn't like me?" Asbel asked William, overlooking the sea with a worried look on his face. 'I'm pretty sure, she still loves you.' William taught, rolling his eyes. "What's not to like about you Asbel." William said to Asbel.

Asbel was about to say something but William stopped him. "You don't need to answer that. Look if you're feeling uneasy. You got your wingman. You helped me and Alice get together, and I'll be glad to help you get with Cheria." William said Asbel. But before Asbel could answer, they heard a horn blow. That's when they noticed they were at the capital.

"We can talk about this later." William said to Asbel, as they got ready to leave the ship. After leaving the ship, they walked through the city, and saw how it changed, how many Flying Type Pokemon have called the capital their home, the city was full of nests and baby Pokemon were chirping, you could feel the joy the city had in the air.

Soon after entering the palace, they reached the steps of the throne room. "Hello, Asbel. It's so nice to see you again." a voice said to Asbel. That's when everyone noticed Cheria and Gardevoir standing nearby, both with a big smile on their face. And while everyone was glad to see them, Asbel panicked. "Ah! Cheria!" Asbel said, before looking away, and standing at attention.

(What's up with him?) Gardevoir asked the Pokemon, as Cheria moved closer to Asbel. "Wait a minute. What's the matter with you?" Cheria asked Asbel, as she tried to look Asbel in the eye, but Asbel kept turning his head away. "I… I just didn't expect to see you here, that's all." Asbel said to Cheria, still not looking at her.

"So what are you doing here?" Alice asked Cheria. "King Richard has asked our relief organization for assistance." Cheria said to Alice. "Is that so? Well, I'm sure you'll be a huge help!" Asbel said to Cheria, still not looking at Cheria. "Why are you acting so weird?" Cheria asked Asbel, getting in his face. This made Asbel panic even more, and he moved away from Cheria.

"It's nothing!" Asbel said. "Smooth." William said to Asbel. "So, uh… How's the relief work going, anyway?" Asbel asked Cheria. "We've been running ragged lately; people need our help more than ever. I've lost count of how many times me and Gardevoir visited Strahta and Fendel." Cheria said to Asbel.

"That busy, huh? So does that mean that the monster attacks continue to keep on increasing?" Asbel asked Cheria. Cheria nodded yes. "We're at our busiest when times are bad. It's been pretty difficult. Honestly, I'd happily lose my job if it meant things were peaceful again." Cheria said to Asbel, before noticing Sophie and Golruk weren't in the group.

"So where's Sophie? Why isn't she and Golurk here?" Cheria asked everyone. "Well she…" Asbel said to Cheria, not knowing what to say. "Tell me the truth. She's not sick, is she?" Cheria asked Asbel, getting worried. "No, she's fine, but she…" Asbel said to Cheria, but was interrupted by a man's voice.

"Lord Asbel! Miss Cheria. Miss Alice. Mister William. Mister Boltund. Miss Swanna. Miss Gardevoir. Thank you all so much for coming." the voice said to everyone. That's when they noticed Duke Dalen walking to them, with a male Corviknight next to him.

"It's good to see you again, Duke Dalen." Asbel said to Dalen. (You too Corviknight.) Boltund said to Corviknight. "His highness is waiting in the throne room. Right this way please." Dalen said to everyone. (Yes. My dear and her partner are waiting for you all.) Corviknight said to everyone, as they all walked into the throne room.

In the throne room, they saw Richard wearing a green vision of his outfit, with a red cap, and white pants, looking at Skarmory, who was in the nest. That's when Ricahrd and Skarmory noticed everyone walking to him.

Then everyone kneels before them. That's when Richard walked to everyone. Richard held out a hand. This was a song for everyone to get up and for Asbel to shake Ricahrd's hand.

"Asbel. Cheria. William. Alice. Boltund. Gardevoir. Swanna. Thank you all for coming." Richard said to everyone, before looking behind everyone. "What is it, Richard?" Asbel asked Richard, as Dalen and Corviknight moved to the side of the room. "Nothing. Don't worry about it. I'm sorry, Asbel. You came here despite all that's going on right now." Richard said to Asbel.

"It's no trouble at all. I'm always ready to help you." Asbel said to Ricahrd. "Always ready to help out. You haven't changed at all. All of this was, in no small way… all my fault." Richard said to everyone. (Yet it's my fault all these monsters were born.) Skarmory said to everyone.

"However, getting rid of these monsters is the best way I can think of to make amends. And yet, it seems that we can't even do that without your assistance." Richard said to everyone. "It's all right." Asbel said to Richard.

That's when more people walked into the throne room. These groups were a small group of Strahta and Fendel soldiers. With the Strahta soldiers were a few Krokorok. And with the Fendel were a few Kabutops. Leading these groups was, Hubert, Malik, Inteleon and Arcanine.

"Apologies for the delay, your Highness." Hubert said to Richard, as they walked to everyone. "It's good to see you again, Captain. And you as well, Hubert." Absel said to Malik and Hubert. (As it is to see you two Inteleon and Arcanine.) Boltund said to Inteleon and Arcanine.

"Now we just need Pascal and Beheeyem and our merry gang will be complete once again." Asbel said to everyone. "Wasn't Pascal and Beheeyem supposed to accompany you, Captain?" Hubert asked Malik. "Yes. I waited for them at the harbor, but they never showed up." Malik said to everyone.

"That girl never changes. I swear. What's she doing now?" Hubert asked. "Like we know. She works on some kind of crazy project every other day." Alice said to Hubert. "Well, most of us have gathered, so let's go ahead and begin." Richard said to everyone.

"In the last month, monster attacks have been occurring in Strahta with greater frequency." Hubert said to everyone. "It's the same in Fendel. We have fewer monsters, but each seems to do more damage than the last." Malik said to everyone. "A familiar story. We in Windor share the same problem." Richard said to everyone. "This sounds like all the monsters are growing stronger." William said to everyone.

"Do we know what's causing this?" Asbel asked everyone. "We've been looking into it, but so far have learned nothing. However, we also know that King Ricahrd has located one of their nests." Hubert said to everyone. "Recently, some of my knights stumbled onto an ancient underground ruin in the area near Rayqndi. The place was crawling with creatures that were once Agate's clones." Richard said to everyone.

"I knew the foul beasts had to be hiding somewhere." Malik said to everyone. "But they're under a capital city. This is a big deal." Alice said to everyone. "An underground nest? It's worth investigating, at least." Asbel said to everyone. "And if we can destroy it altogether, it should help cut down on the number of monster attacks." Cheria said to everyone.

"The ruins appear to be of Amarcian origin." Richard said to everyone. "So that's why you wanted Pascal. It's indeed unfortunate that she didn't make it." Hubert said to Richard. "Unfortunate, but not critical. We'll just have to investigate without her." Malik said to Hubert. "I suppose so." Hubert said.

"By the way, Asbel. Where's Sophie?" Hubert asked Asbel. "Um, she's Actually, let's talk about that later. Right now we should focus on the ruins." Asbel said to everyone, making Alice, William, Boltund, and Swanna look at Asbel with a mean look. "Asbel…" Cheria said to Asbel.

"Very Well. With your permission, Highness, we shall strike out immediately." Malik said to everyone. "The entrance to the ruins is in the catacombs beneath Barona. But before we go. There is another reason I asked to see you all." Richard said to everyone, before turning to Skarmory.

That's when Skarmory stood up, revealing two silver eggs with lines going from the top of the eggs to the bottom of the egg. "Are those?" Cheria asked, as all the Pokemon ran to the nest. "Skarmory's Pokemon eggs. Yes." Richard said to everyone, as the Pokemon all started to look at eggs with happy looks on their eyes. "When did this happen?" Cheria asked Ricahrd.

"The other day. This is why I called for help. I want these eggs to hatch in a world without these monsters, and taking care of this nest will be a good first step." Richard said to everyone. "Then what are we doing standing around here, let's go." William said to everyone, as they all started to leave.

(Corviknight, honey, I'm going with everyone, keep an eye on the eggs while I'm gone.) Skarmory said to Corviknight, as she left. (Of course, dear.) Corviknight said to Skarmory. (I still can't believe that's you mate.) Boltund said to Skarmory. (You're just jealous I have a mate and two lovely eggs.) Skarmory said to Boltund.

After a bit they found themselves in a massive ruin under the city, and they could see the flowing green energy from Rayqndi, with the soldiers guarding the exit incase of a monster getting out of it.

"I can't believe all this is underneath Rayqndi." Asbel said to everyone, as William was throwing up over a ledge, and Alice was rubbing his back. "It's the first I've known about it." Richard said to everyone.

"We found a similar-looking ruin beneath Wallbridge, remember?" Asbel asked everyone. "That's true. They do seem quite similar." Richard said to everyone. "I imagine the Amarcians built them around the same time." Hubert said to everyone.

"I wonder what they're for?" Cheria asked everyone. "They were probably working on whatever this thing is, and then Rayquaza, Groudon, and Kyogre covered it up with land, sea, and sky." Alice said to everyone.

"I'm sure Pascal would be full of theories." Richard said to everyone. "Perhaps. At any rate, let's press on and see what we can learn." Hubert said to everyone. "I sense powerful monsters down here. Keep your wits about you." Malik said to everyone, as they started to move.

After walking a bit, Malik stopped and looked up. "Watch out!" Malik said, as a Blue Copy came out of the ceiling, and rammed its swords into the floor, causing cracks to form in the ground. Those cracks caused the ground under Richard to fall.

"Richard." Asbel said, as he grabbed Richard, but Asbel wasn't able to pull Ricahrd back up, and started to fall over the edge. That's when William grabbed Asbel, with Skarmory, and Boltund holding onto him.

But that's when the Blue Copy hit Skarmory, knocking her into William and Boltund, sending them over the edge. "Asbel!" Cheria said. "William!" Alice said. "How dare you!" Hubert said to the Blue Copy, as they got ready to fight it.

"Inteleon use Ice beam." Hubert said, as he fired shots at the Blue Copy, stunning it. (Right.) Inteleon said, as he fired two light blue beams from his index fingers. The two beams covered the Blue Copy in ice, holding it in place.

"Gardevoir use Energy Ball." Cheria said, as she threw a knife into the Blue Copy. (On it.) Gardevoir said, as she formed a green energy ball. Gardevoir then threw the energy ball, hitting the knife, causing it to break the ice, and burying the knife into the Blue Copy.

"Arcanine use Flare Blitz." Malik said to Arcanine, as he threw his weapon. (Let's do this.) Arcanine said, as he became encased in fire, and charged at the Blue Copy. The Blue Copy got ready to block Arcanine with its shields. But that's when Malik's sword hit it in the back of its head, making it lower its guard, and allowing Arcanine to jump on it.

Arcanine stayed on the Blue Copy for a few seconds, setting the Blue Copy on fire, before jumping off the Blue Copy with both Arcanine and the Blue Copy's fire fading away. "Did that do it?" Cheria asked everyone. Then the Blue Copy started to get up, covered in burns, and charged at everyone.

"Don't think so. Swanna use Scaled." Alice said, as she used her shield to block the Blue Copy shields. (You got it.) Swanna said, as she fired a steam of hot water into the Blue Copy face. This was the last hit needed to make the Blue Copy dissolved.

Meanwhile, as Asbel, Richard, William, Boltund fell, two of William's Pokeballs opened up, with Swampert and Slaking coming out of them, and standing on the ground. Swampert caught Wiliam, Richard, and Asbel, and Slaking caught Boltund and Skarmory. (You know if I had me out. This all could have been avoided.) Swampert said to everyone, as he and Slaking put their Pokemon down.

"You don't have to rub it in." William said to Swampert. "Everyone, okay?" Asbel asked everyone. "Y-Yes, I'm fine." Richard said to everyone. "We might be fine, but…" William said to everyone putting up. "I don't think we can get back up that way." Asbel said to everyone.

"Skarmory can you get us up there?" Richard asked Skarmory. (No. That monster hit me in the wing. I'm fine, but it would be too much for me to get all three of you up. In one trip or multiple trips.) Skarmory said to Richard.

"Asbel! Richard! William! Are you and your Pokemon okay?" Cheria yelled down to them. "We're fine! Keep going! We'll meet you up ahead." Asbel yelled up to them. "Okay! Be careful down there!" Cheria yelled down to them.

"Kind of take you back to when we were kids, huh?" Asbel asked everyone. "Except Sophie was with us as well. And we didn't have Slaking, Skarmory, or Boltund with us." Richard said to everyone.

"Yeah, we have so many with us this time, but no Sophie." Asbel said. "Asbel?" Richard asked Asbel, looking into Asbel's eyes and chest, and Asbel noticed it. "What is it?" Asbel asked Richard. "How is Lambda and Agate doing? Have they been speaking with you, or trying to manipulate you in any way?" Richard asked Asbel.

"No, they haven't tried anything like that." Asbel said to everyone. "And I haven't seen any sign of them being awake." William said to everyone. "I almost killed Sophie because I carried those things inside me. And these monsters came out of me giving Skarmory Agate." Richard said to Asbel.

"Don't worry, Richard. Sophie and I are just fine. It's true that neither of us, or William and the Pokemon, knows what Lambda or Agate will do going forward. But living with Lambda was my decision. Whatever problems come up, I'll find a way to deal with them." Asbel said to everyone, but then Sophie's words rang in his head. "Whatever… problems…" Asbel said, making a small flash appear in his eye and in Agate's crystal.

"What's wrong?" Richard asked Asbel. "Nothing." Asbel said. "Are you sure you're okay?" Richard asked Asbel. "Yeah, I'm fine. Come one, let's go." Asbel said to everyone. "Slaking returned." William said, returning Slaking to his Pokeball.

While walking, William pulled Asbel to the back of everyone. "Asbel you have to tell him about Sophie." William said to Asbel. "I'll talk to them after we take care of the monsters. But who knows, Sophie might be over this when we get back." Asbel said to William, before walking ahead of him. "I doubt that." William said, before going after everyone.

Then they ran into some monsters, and took care of them. "I hope Cheria and the others are doing all right." Richard said, as they all put their weapons away. "Hubert, Alice, Captain Malik and their Pokemon are there. I'm sure they're fine." Asbel said to Richard, before they looked around. "Anyway, this place seems safe. Why don't we rest for a bit?" Asbel asked everyone. "A few minutes rest wouldn't hurt." William said to everyone.

"Hey, everyone?" Asbel asked everyone. "Yes?" Richard asked. "What is it, Asbel?" William asked Asbel. "Do either of you think about the future? I mean, decades from now?" Asbel asked everyone. "Well to be honest I have been thinking about it recently." William said to Asbel. "Where'd that come from?" Richard asked Asbel.

"Sophie was talking about how I'm going to leave her behind when I die. I told her it was decades away and she shouldn't worry about it. I mean, I hadn't even really thought about it myself. But that just made her more upset. She said the years would pass in no time at all." Asbel asid to Richard. "Is that why she isn't here?" Richard asked Asbel.

"Yeah, she was gone when we got up this morning." William said to Richard. "It made me realize how differently she experiences time." Asbel asid to everyone. "She seems so human. Sometimes I forget she won't grow old and die like the rest of us." Richard said to everyone. "Even Golurk will one day leave her." William said to everyone.

"I've always treated her like a normal person, and I don't regret that at all." Asbel said to everyone. "Perhaps these are thoughts you should share with her instead of keeping them to yourself. If she mentioned it to you it's likely a concern she's had from some time." Richard said to Asbel. "That's true…" Asbel said.

"I don't know about that. It came out of nowhere. Pulse Asbel had a hard time talking to Sophie about this." William said to everyone. "If anyone can help Sophie with her problems, it's Asbel." Richard said to everyone. "You're right. Thanks for talking to me." Asbel said to everyone. "Happy to help." Richard said to Asbel. "We always got your back." William said to Asbel, as everyone but Asbel stood up.

"Come on. I'm sure the others are getting worried." Richard said to Asbel, helping Asbel up. Asbel took Richard's hands and stood up. "Then let's go." Asbel said to everyone.

Meanwhile a while ago, Malik, Alice, Cheria, Hubert, and their Pokemon were looking down at where everyone else fell down. "I can't make out anything from up here." Malik said to everyone.

"Asbel! Richard! William! Are you and your Pokemon okay?" Cheria yelled down to them. "We're fine! Keep going! We'll meet you up ahead." Asbel yelled up to them. "Okay! Be careful down there!" Cheria yelled down to them.

"That's my brother. Tough as a rock, if nothing else." Hubert said to everyone. "I'm sure my boyfriend's Pokemon will help with that." Alice said to everyone. "We should move before more monsters show up." Malik said to everyone, before they started to get moving.

After a bit, they ran into a couple more blue copy monsters, and easily took care of them. "There certainly are a lot of monsters down here." Hubert said to everyone. "I just hope what we're doing helps to lessen the attacks on our people." Cheria said to everyone.

"Your relief organization must have been heavily taxed recently. Are you getting enough rest?" Malik asked Cheria. "Oh. I'm fine. I'm just glad I can help somehow." Cheria said to everyone. (Says the woman that dropped dead once a month.) Gardevoir said to Cheria. "I was so sick as a child, I never thought I'd be able to do anything. I guess I'm trying to make up for it now." Cheria said to everyone.

"That's good for the people, but what about you? What about you and Asbel? My mother says he's been swamped with marriage proposals." Hubert said to Cheria. "Oh?" Cheria asked. "I won't worry that much about it. He's swamped by it, not looking at any of them." Alice said to everyone, making Cheria feel better.

"Guys like him may be slow on the uptake, but once they make a choice things tend to move quickly." Malik said to everyone, making Cheria feel bad. (Not helping Malik.) Arcanine said to Malik. "Well, I wish he'd hurry up so our mother can stop worrying about it." Hubert said to everyone.

"Why don't you get married first? That might help ease her mind a little." Malik said to Hubert, surprising Hubert. "Wh-Why are we talking about me now?" Hubert asked Malik, not looking at Malik. "Don't play dumb. We've all heard about your possible engagement to the president's daughter." Malik said to everyone, surprising everyone.

"What, really?!" Cheria asked. "How do you know about that?!" Hubert asked Malik. "People talk. I Listen. At this rate, you'll be the new president of Strahta in no time." Malik said to Hubert. "Hubert, when did this happen?!" Cheria asked Hubert.

"It's nothing to do with me. The president brought up the idea of his own accord. And even if I did marry her, that doesn't mean I'd take over Strahta! The presidency is not passed down through a bloodline. I thought you knew that." Hubert said to Malik. "Maybe, but marrying the president's daughter, and all you've done for Strahta. Good chance of you winning the election for the presidential seat." Alice said to Hubert.

"Enough of this, let's go." Hubert said to everyone, before walking away. "Hey, wait up!" Cheria said, as she, Alice, Inteleon, Swanna, and Gardevoir went after Hubert. "Kids these days…" Malik said, before he and Arcanine started to follow them.

After a bit, everyone met up. "Asbel!" Hubert said, as they noticed each other. "Glad to see you're all okay." Asbel said to everyone. "Are the six of you all right?" Cheria asked everyone. "Yeah, we're fine." Asbel said to Cheria. "Sorry to make you worry." Richard said to Cheria.

"I don't know what we'd do if something happened to you, King Richard." Hubert said to Richard. "Your concern for my well-being is touching." Asbel said to Hubert, sarcastically. "Yeah, your kind words for us are making us tear up." William said to Hubert, sarcastically.

"That's okay, Asbel, William. If anything happens, I'll protect you with Skarmory help." Richard said to Asbel and William. "Your words are wasted on us, Your Highness." Asbel said to Richard. "I'm only doing what you would do for me." Richard said to Asbel. "Hey, come on…" Asbel said to Richard. "Yeah, you're embarrassing us." William said to Richard.

"This reminds me of when we were kids." Cheria said to everyone. "Yes. it does." Hubert said to Cheria. "I have to break up the happy reunion, but we need to keep moving." Malik said to everyone. Everyone nodded yes and got back to moving.

After a bit, they found the nest, with the nest was a couple of green copies. "More monsters!" Hubert said to everyone. "There's something different about these." Malik said to everyone. "Keep your guard up!" Asbel said to everyone, as the monsters charged at them.

"Swampert use Liquidation." William said to Swampert, as they all tried to hit the green copies. (Right.) Swampert said, as water gushed out of the orange on his hands, making water blades. Swampert was able to cut a few of them, making them crash into the ground.

"Swanna use Air Slash." Alice said to Swanna. (On it.) Swanna said as she fired two wind blades at the green copies, with only one of the wind blades hitting one of the copies, and making it crash.

"Boltund use Electro Ball." Asbel said to Boltund. "And Gardevoir use Energy Ball." Cheria said to Gardevoir. (You got it.) Boltund and Gardevoir said, as Boltund fired a yellow electric ball, and Gardevoir fired a green light ball. The two balls of energy hit two of the green copies, knocking them out of the sky.

"Arcanine use Flamethrower." Malik said, as he threw his weapon, knocking one of the monsters out of the sky. (Right.) Arcanine said, as he breathed a steam of fire, burning a couple copies, and knocked them out of the sky.

"Inteleon use Swift." Hubert said to Inteleon, as he shot at a couple of the green copies. (With pleasure.) Inteleon said, as he threw yellow stars, hitting a lot of the green copies in the head, knocking them out of the sky.

"Skarmory use Iron Head." Richard said to Skarmory. (On it.) Skarmory said, as her head turned rough and silver. Skarmory then charged at a green copy, and they ramb heads, but Skarmory's head was tougher, and she won the clash, knocking the green copy out of the sky.

But then the monsters got up and into the sky. "These guys are tough!" Asbel said to everyone. "At this rate, we won't last much longer." Hubert said to everyone. That's when they heard a roar, and a bird monster that looked like it was some kind of evolved form of a green copy, with massive wings that were in an X shape, and the human part gone. "Looks like we got something new." Alice said to everyone.

That's when the monster bird moved at them at high speed, making a gust of wind around them, and scattering them. This made William and Asbel crash into each other. Then the bird monster charged at them again. "Look out!" Richard said, as he used his sword to block the monster's attack.

"Richard!" Asbel said to Richard. That's when the monster forced Richard back, before attacking everyone again. "Aw, damn you!" Asbel said, holding his head and chest. "You hurt our friends!" William said, faintly glowing green, blue, and red. "You…You'll pay for that!" Asbel said, before letting out black energy. The energies flowed into each other before stopping.

"You have awakened us." Lambda said in his Asbel's head. "And your friend has powered us, as we powered him." Agate said in Asbel's head. "Huh? That voice…" Asbel said. "What is it, Asbel?" William asked Asbel. "Entrust yourself to our powers." Lambda said in Asbel's head. "We will make you strong enough to defeat that monster." Agate said in Asbel's head.

"Lambda! Agate!" Asbel said. "Hesitate, and your friends will die." Lambda said in Asbel's head. "So make your choice." Agate said in Asbels' head. Asbel said nothing, but he accepted the bargen. "Strike forth." Lambda said in Asbel's head. That's when Asbel charged at the bird monster, glowing black.

That's when the bird monster charged at him. But then moved at high speed, dodging the bird monster's attack, and hitting it in the side, sending it flying into the wall. That's when the black glow faded away, realving Asbel's now look.

Asbel was now in a black bodysuit, he had a gold sleeve over his left arm, a red sleeve of his right arm with his sword in hand, gold armor on his knees, chest, and round discs on the side of his hips, a gold helmet with a red visor was on his head, and the back of the helmet had a long blade.

"Asbel?" Cheria said. "He just stopped it!" Malik said. "That's what you're focused on. Not his new look." Alice said to Malik. "Less talk, more action." Hubert said to everyone, as they got back to fighting. "You got it!" William said as he started to glow green and transformed.

But instead of his base form, William transformed into the Rayquaza he was in when he first transformed. Primal Rayquaza from. Then William and Asbel started to float, soon they moved at high speed in the sky, causing a massive amount of wind to blow around them, and slashing off one of the wings of the monsters, making them crash into the ground.

"Skarmory use Body Press." Richard said, as he charged at a green copy. (Right.) Skarmory said, as she flew up, and came crashing down, belly first, causing the ground to break. Then Richard came up and finished it.

That's when the rest of the green copies got up. "Inteleon use Sucker Punch." Hubert said to Inteleon. (Right.) Inteleon said, as he moved at high speed, hitting one of the green copies in the throat, stunning it. That moment when it was stun was enough for Huebrt to finish.

Then a green copy got up and started to attack Arcanine. "Arcanine use Reversal." Malik said, as he threw his blade, making the green copy back away. (Right) Arcanine said, as he glowed a flame like orange. Arcanine then charged into the green copy, ramming his head into it, shooting the orange glow threw it, killing it. "Nice work." Malik said, as he caught his weapon.

"Gardevoir use Psychic." Cheria said to Gardevoir. (Right.) Gardevoir said, as her eyes glowed pink, and pink outlines appeared in a green copy. This held the green copy in place. Then Cheria threw a few knives, hitting the monster, and finishing it.

Then a green copy got up and charged at Alice. (Protect.) Swanna said, as she formed a green bubble around her and Alice, making the green copy crash into it and fall to the ground. When the bubble disappeared, Alice was able to get a clear hit into the monster, finishing it.

The last of the monsters was the bird monster, who was running from Asbel and William. (Blizzard!) Swampert said, as he opened his mouth, letting out a burst of freezing winds and snow. The cold and snow hit the bird monster slowed down. This gave William and Asbel the opening to hit the monster and send it flying into the ground.

The bird monster tried to get up, but that's when Boltund jumped onto its back. (Thunder Fang!) Boltund said, as his teeth became sharp and glowed yellow. Boltund bit into the bird monster's neck, finishing the bird monster and ending the fight.

When the fight was over, Asbel and William landed back near the group. "Asbel, William, what just happened?" Hubert asked them, as Asbel and William turned back to normal. "It was Lambda and Agate's power." Asbel said to everyone. "It looks like their powers gave Asbel some new tricks, and allowed me to use the full power of my Rayquaza form.

"Lambda?" Richard said. (Agate?) Skarmory said. "At least we were able to kill some of the monsters." Malik said to everyone. "Yeah, that should cut down on the number of attacks." Cheria said to everyone. "I'm not so sure. Look at this." Alice said, as they noticed her by the bird monster's corpse, and it was letting out yellow particles.

"I don't understand why these things are so strong." Malik said to everyone. "I'm more worried about why it's letting out yellow particles. For this type of monster it should be green particles." Alice said to everyone.

"I wish Pascal had come. I'm sure she could figure out something." Hubert said to everyone. "Perhaps, but there's nothing we can do about it now. Let's move out." Malik said, as they started to leave the ruins.

Once everyone was out of the ruins, as William threw up, Hubert noticed something coming at them. "What's that?" Hubert asked everyone, as they noticed a digital bird. "That looks like Pascal's communicator." Asbel said to everyone, as the digital bird flew to everyone.

"Hold on. I'll get it." Malik said to everyone, holding out a communicator. "It's from Pascal all right." Malik said to everyone. "Likely some pathetic excuse about why she missed the boat." Hubert said, as Malik read the message. "She says Sophie and Golruk are with her." Malik said to everyone, looking at Asbel, William, and Alice, surprising everyone.

"Asbel, what's going on?" Cheria asked Asbel. "Asbel, tell them." William said to Asbel. "Well, the truth is…" Asbel said, before explaining what's going on with Sophie. No one knew what to say about this and went quiet.

"So she dreads the day we all pass away and she's left behind." Malik said to everyone. "Pretty much." William said to everyone. "That's so sad." Cheria said to everyone. "Was there anything else Pascal mentioned?" Hubert asked Malik.

"Yes. She also asked us to come to the Amarcian enclave. She didn't give any specifics, but she wants to tell us something about Fodra." Malik said to everyone.

"Is that right?" Asbel asked everyone. "Well, it's good timing if nothing else. We need to talk about the monsters anyway." Richard said to everyone. "I suppose we should head straight for the enclave." Hubert said to everyone, before a Windor and Strahta soldier came running up.

"Lieutenant! The president has requested that you return to Strahta and present him with a full report." the Strahta soldier said to Hubert. Hubert walked a few steps away from the group, with the soldier following him. At the same time Richard was talking to his soldier.

A few seconds later, the Strahta soldier left, and Hubert walked back to everyone. "Uh, Hubert? Are you sure you should be ignoring the president like that?" Asbel asked Hubert. "Er, yes. I'm sure it's fine. My subordinate can make the report as clearly as I." Hubert said to Asbel, as the soldier Richard was talking to left.

"It looks like someone is eager to see Pascal again." Malik said to everyone. "Wh-What?! I'll thank you to keep such ungentlemanly suggestions to yourself." Hubert said to Malik. "Are you turning down the president's daughter because of Pascal?!" Cheria asked Hubert.

"Wiat, what's going on?" Asbel asked Cheria. "Nothing's going on! Come on, let's go. Hurry up!" Hubert said to everyone, with a commanding voice, before walking away. "Sure nothing's going on." William said sarcastically, before everyone started to follow Hubert.

Hello everyone please like, follow or review if you like this story. Again I'm sorry for the wait, I hate making you all wait, but school can be a big time waster.