Strong brisk winds blow across the valley of a rocky pine forest. The trees sway in the direction the current commands, leaves, and branches dance and swing. The Southeastern Mountains of Bristberg are coated in a shade darker than the rest due to foliage and shrubbery.
A path that winds up and down the ridges and peaks of a steep set of hills. A darkening sky, littered with a palette of stars, submerged under the rich rumble of passing clouds. The road to Midori Mori City was not an easy one.
The temperature in the Bristberg-Midori area drops hard at night. Cold weather meant traveling Pokemon would need to take extra precautions to be safe and warm.
Seven Pokemon huddled together along a treacherous mountain walkway. A lanky but built Charmander kept a torchlight going strong, while a stocky and ripped Treecko read directions from a large guidebook.
An Axew who had stripes and a muscular body walked behind them, with a fluffy Pikachu with light grey limb ends right beside him. A Totodile with a large tail spine and sculpted body carried multiple treasure bags with equipment for dungeon adventure.
Lastly, a Rookiedee twice the average size with bandaged wings soared above them all, every forty-five minutes stopping to land on the arm of a Snubbull. The Fairy-Type Dog held onto a briefcase.
More tempest gusts of wind struck through the mountain range, wearing out the travelers. Though it confused them at first Voltaru's thick layer of yellow fur is something to be thankful for. Linus, and Hatchet; two Pokemon with ice-type weaknesses and no extra layers so fortunate. The two brothers protected themselves from the harsh cold air with various garments to avoid suffering from any sickness or ailments.
Team Sharp Claw and the newly formed Team Rebirth had been sent to Midori Mori City slightly earlier than expected. But it was for the better, they would reach the new members faster.
After the sudden attack by Wicked Blow Sir Mcbone and Sir Cooper decided it would be best that the young Pokemon hurry to get the Pokemon then to track down the dangerous Amelia Weavile. "She will most likely go after some other young Virtues near the city." the Granbull woofed as he washed his paws. The dirt and grim could fall off his fur but they would never be clean.
"Trying to either end their lives directly or by forcing them to join her." Replied his Stoutland mate, her jet black eyes loomed at the badge on her scarf. She licked her columns of sharp teeth but they too could never be clean.
"One of the weasel's accomplices, a male young adult Sableye is dead. The second he set foot down on the Bristberg Mana League soil he sealed his fate." Cooper had to rinse and repeat.
Voltaru, a former human now Pikachu could not believe their eyes. "Coordinator Sir?"
The Granbull lowered his eyes down to the younger Virtue. His mouse subordinate cheeks began to spark as they glanced at the body bag before them. "If I encounter a member of the Wicked Blow-"
The other members of Team Sharp Claw were present at the W.B processing building, which was attached to the Bristberg Police Station via a tunnel. Nevada and Glade filled out paperwork and explained the situation to Linus. Hatchet quivered while he sat on a faux leather seat, bundled in a blanket.
"No." The Fairy-Type sighed before he took a swig of beer from a can. "Only if that's the last option for ones that have stolen mana or killed. If they attempt to kill in front of you, you can make the right decision."
The Sableye's extra mana had been released back into the world, all different types of energy rose up from his body. "You can ask a Pokemon to give up the stolen mana and turn themselves into either the jail or a reformation guild."
"What about Pokemon forced to join... Ones who haven't killed?" The Electric-Type glanced at the tall Gumshoos Officer who inspected all the League Pokemon and then the Pikachu flicked their slanted tail. "Also what about the types of Pokemon that have only sensed mana working with Wicked Blow?"
Coordinator Cooper gently placed down his can and panted, his tongue rolled out of his mouth. "This is where I need Team Sharp Claw to come in, you will take the ones with no blood on their claws in." The dog pulled out a purse with various poke coins in it and dangled it in front of the Mouse Pokemon.
Voltaru accepted the coin purse and marveled at the sight of hundreds of gold pieces that shone in the dim lamplight. "Pokemon often kill numerous targets for their Wicked Blow commanders so they aren't off the hook just yet."
"Oh right. The Wicked Blow lackeys don't know the strength of the Pokemon they are going to take from beforehand." The Pikachu held some of the coins in their paw, balanced one in between two paw pads before walking over to a vending machine.
"That's so-" They placed 5 coins into the slot, one after another.
"Despicable." A can of bright red berry soda made a clinking sound. Next the fizz of gas and a metallic pop. "It's scary sir. If only we didn't have to kill them."
The Granbull placed his free paw on the younger Virtue's fluffy fur. "We are searching for another way… I think the Mana keys and lock are beyond the city. You are stronger than you think, my child." The yellow Pokemon below him finished a sip.
Tears welled in the Electric-type's eyes. "Beyond the city, like where Kobi and the Rockruff are. I want to make sure no more Pokemon are forced to join the Wicked Blow." They gasped as they held the drink tightly, the silver can bend slightly. "I have to protect them, no matter the cost!" No saltine drops stained the Pikachu's face.
A door creaked open and a Houndour held her paw on the knob. She was wearing a green coat and next to her was an Eletrike wearing the same thick outfit. The Coordinator waved to Team Sharp Claw with a hearty sigh. "Voltaru, I believe you'll do well out there and make the right choices. Send me a letter when you are able to get the kids from Midori Mori."
"Good luck sir Cooper!" Voltaru grinned with a flash of white teeth. Their long tail wagged. Then the mouse walked over to their distraught Axew companion and grabbed hold of his claw. Hatchet appeared flustered for a moment but managed a smile. The Dragon-type had filled his documents out first, the details nearly sent him into a fit of agonized tears of rage and terror.
The Houndour named Vulcan carefully held out a plastic tray and the Electrike named Thor spoke on her behalf. "Could we get all the requested documentation, please? Afterward, we only need to speak to the Coordinator, y'all can go home."
Nevada and Glade finished with the paperwork they were given and hopped off their wooden stools. Linus stared at his file and shook his head, the Treecko closed his yellow sclera in dismay.
"Yeah, don't fret over Voltaru and Hatchet sir! I've got their backs if things go to shit with Wicked Blow or any strong as fuck carnals." The feisty Totodile yelled as she handed forward her account. Her Charmander friend also stood up, they clenched their papers gently.
The Fire-type turned their head to look down at Hatchet and Voltaru before they sighed. "W-we need to set out for Midori Mori as soon as possible, don't dawdle guys." The tall orange Pokemon reminded their teammates.
This signaled the stocky Treecko to finish his version of the story. "They're right guys, let's get going."
Near midnight the group found a small cave to rest. Nevada lit some of the extra firewood Hatchet brought with him in his old satchel. The embers rose up to the ceiling even as the harsh winds dove into the entrance.
The seven Pokemon arranged themselves close to the fire, to allow the flames to soothe their tired bodies. Blankets made out of Mareep and Wooloo wool were spread out all over the stone ground. The fleece coverings were able to be shaped into the nests and beds with ease
Voltaru was the first to speak. "So uh, will we be safe from carnal ferals and other Pokemon?" The Pikachu shifted onto their haunches uncomfortably. Their tail had been pressed underneath their rear and twisted on their feet.
"Yeah," responded Linus. The Treecko stood up, in his hands a teal slumber orb. He had fastened his blanket around most of his body. "I'll take a night watch for about two hours, then wake up Glade."
The Totodile sharply moved her head, her snout bound. She rolled her crimson eyes before she yawned.
"Don't worry you can pick someone to wake up after two hours you silly gator. I'll let you get your beauty rest." The team leader cackled loudly. The Grass-type held his ribs as the laughter faded. He looked at his fellow league members and smiled. "Don't worry, I won't let you get hurt tonight."
"What, you can't promise that tomorrow?" slyly piped Voltaru as they felt their fatigue setting in.
Linus pressed his webbed fingers against his chest in exasperation. "That's-" The Treeko's brown eyes drifted. "That is not what I meant."
Then he turned to the mouse. "Hatchet come get your friend." He joked. The Axew had been fast asleep, so had the Rookiedee and Snubull. "Eh, whatever good night."
"Ahah, yeah, good night."
Towards the middle of the morning, when the sun's rays warmly lit the cloudless sky the Pokemon left the cave structure. The group had cooked a nice breakfast and gathered some extra supplies along with other things before heading out of course.
"Alrighty folks the way into Midori Mori City is through the Dungeon, let's find the kids and maybe get in some practice!" Linus tightened his headscarf and threw a fist into the air.
"Yeah, let's go!" Everyone cheered as they ran inside the forest clearing. Voltaru padded on their four legs to keep up with Hatchet, Nevada, and Glade pace. Although they were on a clearing the way into the Mystery Dungeon wasn't clear, many weaving paths hindered the group's movements.
Low hanging branches from the vine and ivy-covered dark trees needed to be ducked over. Mighty roots, columns of unruly logs, and stone had to be jumped across and climbed up.
"Hey guys I have a question about this Mystery Dungeon." spoke up Voltaru as the group traversed the jungle forest. Their grey paws held onto the trunk of a tree.
"What is it? Have you never been in one or something?" Glade quipped when they reached the entrance. Thick tendrils and shrubbery had been cut down in the Totodile's wake.
"Excuse me!" Growled the Axew across from the mouse. "We had to travel through the Bristberg Underpass."
"Oh, my apologies. Anyway, what do you want to know." The Water Type pointed at the dark canopy. "We are about to head inside."
"Those four kids, how long have they been inside the Dungeon?"
Nevada, Linus, Astesia, and CJ checked the items and equipment in the League bags. The Treecko put a hand under his chin and sighed. "This Mystery Dungeon and many others in this area have time dilation."
"Oh yeah, thanks for reminding me, Linus!" The Charmander held various seeds in their orange claws. "They have been in the Dungeon for about three days out here but in the Dungeon, it has only been about three hours."
Astesia flapped her wings before securing an Attack Looplet to her neck. "This is why we need to hurry! This pesky time dilation means Amelia has more time in the area not spent dead."
Her Snubbull companion ruffled her black feathers with his paw. "Oi don't get carried away! She has extra power stored inside her, remember? Your vengeance will have to wait until we are able to faint her, force her to release the world's mana."
"Or one of the researchers found the lock and keys." Nevada clasped down the bag's buttons. "All anyone needs to do is locate the Dungeon with the Temple that holds the set with the Flying-type and lock and lock it back."
"Yep, we have a couple of teams of Pokemon researching these locks and keys. It's not our specialty so don't worry right now. Let's go, CJ, Astesia we're free to go ahead!" Linus ordered before he ran into the clearing.
The Pokemon from Bristberg finally dove into the Midori Mori Mystery Dungeon. The wide leaves and bramble covered up the hole in a slow tug.
Everyone found their bearings in the cold humid mixture of air. The rich soil meant that all sorts of fruit.
"Well you've mentioned the keys and lock before, what do they do?" The Electric-type murmured. They took in their surroundings, the lush forest
"Voltaru you're a Virtue but I'll still explain it, come on this way." beckoned Glade as she took the lead. "There are eight pairs of keys with locks spread out across the hemisphere in two sets."
"Ah, so there are four keys and locks in our Continent. Great, we can use these to restore the balance!" The Pikachu tightened their scarf. "Well, we have to find the Mystery Dungeons with the Temples and make it inside."
"There are so many darn Mystery Dungeons popping up all over the place so how can anyone really be sure?" Hatchet
"Yeah, but if Wicked Blow Virtues find it first more Pokemon will suffer," Nevada added as their tail flame rose.
"Hatchet isn't one of your friends looking for the temple in Mist Ravine? We have Team Aegisdrip and Team Blue Heroes searching for the set supposedly near Scarlet Valley." Glade picked up some poke lying on the floor. "The fucking keys might be in another Dungeon, we have no clue at this point, cause there's a shit load."
The Axew nodded. "Kobi is probably searching for the temple. But that Dungeon has wild time dilation, which is why she's been gone for about 2 months now."
"Ooh, well I have a feeling she'll lock the keys up really soon." The Charmander chimed.
An Aipom and a Morelull, two purple and white Pokemon stared at the group.
The Normal-type immediately launched a Fling. "More outsiders." She glared. "Get out."
Voltaru was hit, as they were right behind Glade. A large silver spike pierced through their chest fur, blood had been drawn. "Augh, shoot!" They cried out as they pulled the weapon out of their flesh. "She's smart enough to throw items and speak?"
"Doesn't matter, she'll pay for this!" The Totodile bore her fangs and glared at the monkey. "This Dungeon has strong as fuck Pokemon and I'm up for the challenge!"
"Yeah, a level 2 feral I reckon! Are you okay Voltaru?!" shouted Hatchet, his eyes widened in fear as the mouse bled. Grotesc and terrible vivid images tempted to flood his head. No, everything will be alright.
In the second he turned to look at his fellow Virtue a Dazzling Gleam battered the Axew with a super effective blow. "Waaaaaaah!" The Dragon recoiled onto the thick carpet of grass, his back and left thigh scales burnt. "It feels like ma darn skin is melting off! Ah, shit, fuck. I gotta stop cussing!"
"Hold up, stay in our formation!" Requested Nevada before they struck the mushroom cap Pokemon with a Metal Claw. The Charmander watched as their Totodile teammate lunged at the Aimpom's neck with a Brick Break and then took in a breath.
The Fighting-type move connected, which sent the monkey to the ground. "Get out of our way you bitches!" Shouted Glade just as a large grey rock, a geo pebble crashed into her skull, the impact bruised her face.
"Fucking shit!" The gator swore, a claw attached to the wound. After they took in the situation Nevada realized what they needed to do, especially with two more carnal ferals entering the room.
Aipom grinned a wild smile whilst she cradled her thick neck. "Who is the bitch now?" She asked before the Morelull blasted the Totodile with a Giga Drain, which brought the Big Jaw Pokemon to her knees.
"Aaaaaah." The Totodile slumped over from the super-effective critical hit. In looming darkness, she felt her eyelids drag downward as she tried to maintain consciousness and a brave face. "Heh," Glade grinned when she looked up. "not done just yet you fuckers."
"We told you to get out of our way!" Fiercely yelled Hatchet before his Dragon Pulse knocked the smug expression off the monkey's face and knocked her out. "Will you be okay Glade?" the Axew frantically begged to know.
Then he shoved an oran berry down her throat. Glade half coughed half choked when she swallowed the blue fruit.
Meanwhile, the Fairy-Grass-type stepped back to dodge Voltaru's Quick Attack. She didn't say anything but had a smirk on her face. It didn't matter. Soon a wave of enormous heat engulfed the whole room. The three enemy Pokemon fell down in the sweltering blaze, only the Morelull fainted.
"Let's go to another room, we shouldn't waste any more time!" Demanded Glade as she went towards a western pathway.
Hatchet, Nevada, and Voltaru followed as quickly as possible, they tried to close the gap but soon everything came to a halt. They entered a room on one side and their pursuers the other.
But what was more important was the Pokemon standing in the middle of the room, right next to the stairs. A light brown cat with neon yellow eyes extended his black claws at the sight of the Pikachu and Axew Virtues. The Steel-type's little black nose twitched and then his eyes pierced his target.
"There you are Master! I knew you were coming!" the Meowth yowled before he leaped towards the group.
"Aye, it's one of the kids!" Glade cheered.
"And the stairs! We are on a roll!" Nevada pointed out.
"Oh, you must be Nekotestu, we've come to-" started Hatchet before he was cut off.
"Not you, that HUMAN next to you! I'm coming for you!" Nekotestu used Hone Edge in one bound.
Sensing fierce hatred and malice the Totodile and Charmander stepped forward but it was too late.
"Master?" Asked Glade.
"Human?" Questioned Nevada.
When the crazy cat was close enough he used Lash Out. Which deeply sliced across the mouse's chest down to their right hip in one swing. After they witnessed this the ferals in the room desperately ran away.
"Master! This is for what you did to my old body!" the large kitten yelled before he yanked back his claws. "My stones and fights were withheld, this is your punishment!"
"Voltaru! You keep getting hurt badly!" The green Dragon-type cried out in worry. He looked at his pixel burns on his side and shook his head. "Well I guess I was hurt even worse."
The Electric-type fell back onto the grass floor and held onto their bleeding chest. They looked down at the silver cat with fear and confusion as blood pooled down their paws. "What? Your old body?" they were puzzled.
"Master, you know what you did, you took away my stones when I was a kitten and didn't allow me to fight other toms. I can feel you there, I know it's you, master." Simply reasoned the Meowth as the Pikachu bled heavily. He crossed his arms and did not flinch when Glade used Ice Fang directly on his head.
"What the hell is wrong with you, you shitty bastard?" She growled before she hit him again with a different move . "Don't fucking disrespect your seniors like that!"
The Electric-type ignored the deep cut in their flesh and stared further at the Meowth. "Wait, Bel?" They questioned.
"Wait, do you know Nekotestu by an old name or something? How could this be?" Asked Hatchet when he drew closer to the younger Virtue.
"Yes I'm Bel. Master gave me this name long ago." The Steel-type flicked his black ears. "I haven't heard it in many moons, I've missed it."
In a cave deep within a drenched gorge stretched down hundreds of kilometers there lay a decrypt, ancient temple. It was located down under the Mist Ravine Mystery Dungeons treacherous numerous basement floors.
With both haste and precision two small Pokemon ventured further into the depths monument. Then they ceased all movement, only a watery breeze going about. This sent a chill down the adventurers spines.
A Rockruff shook his light brown fur and licked his chops with a woof. "Hey Kobi?" The little dog was fairly lean, his muscles visible through his thin coat of fur.
"Yes Makkuro?" Responded Kobi, an Espurr who had all four paws planted on the stone ground. She had three claw marks above her left eye and a battle hardened frame.
The puppy turned his head to face the door in front of the pair. Then he placed just one paw on the large entrance. "Do you think the keys and locks of Flying and Bug are down here for sure?" His dark blue scarf flailed in a dusty gust of wind once the old room began to open.
"Yup, I can feel it." The Espurr strode forward. She reached out with her white tipped paws. It was done. Makkuro did the same. The locks had their keys inside.
"We are going to take these back to the League to be sure after we lock them. "
The Rock-type rolled his tongue out after he placed the light blue set inside his travel pouch. "We sealed the extra mana of all Flying and Bug Type Pokemon. They can evolve now! The keys can be unlocked so we have to be careful." Then he wagged his curled tail.
Quickly the dungeon-crawlers retraced their steps and began the ascent out of Temple. They were fortunate to have safe travel during the trek down, besides the battles from feral Pokemon. It was nothing Kobi couldn't handle and it wasn't like Makkuro was defenseless as he appeared.
The pair of Virtues still needed to be on guard, there were minor slivers of sinister energy that ebbed and flowed with every little step they took.