The mountain range's cold embrace was enough to deter those who dared not know where they ventured to. In the case of Evan and Freya, the two took the embrace with the gear they had on. Freya was more than prepared with the light jacket she wore. Surprisingly it wasn't as bad as they thought.

"So uh, good thing we're wearing warm clothing, right?" Evan noted astutely.

Freya nodded. "Yes." She looked at Evan's attire, specifically his beanie. "But at least you have a hat in case it snows. Should've brought mine."

Evan meekly sneered. "Yeah…"

"You two, back there!" the shout of Ryoma echoed across the valley range. "Hurry forth! Come or we may very well leave you to freeze!"

"Coming!" Evan picked up his pace. He and Freya picked up the pace and followed him, Corrin, Kaze, and Rinkah. "He didn't have to yell though, we're right here…" he muttered lowly.

Up further as the group traveled, Rinkah was taking the lead as the others followed behind. Ryoma looked over at her with uncertainty. "Are you sure this is the way to the village, Rinkah?"

The Flame Princess crossed her arms and looked back. "Yeah, no mistaking it. I know these mountains better than anyone else. Ain't no good place to hide from me here." She looked at the mountains overlooking the area up ahead. "There's a set of valleys just beyond this point. The village will be there. Won't be for much longer now."

"Alright, good. Let's hurry." Corrin picked up his pace, though he was still being tailed by Kaze and Ryoma. He looked back every now and again to see if they looked anything like him. Aside from possibly the eyes, he wasn't seeing any fair resemblance. What Ryoma and Mikoto explained to him earlier still rung inside his mind pretty hard. He still couldn't believe it. 'This is supposed to be my real family, Hoshido…?' This was the fifth time now he asked him that same question. For the fifth time, it was the same answer: He didn't know. With all this information piling onto him, he didn't know what to make of anything anymore. But still, in spite of this, people were in trouble. And his heart knew he had to do something to help ease them, as well as his conscience.

Still farther back, Evan watched Corrin look back every now and again. "Well…Corrin seems to be taking this pretty well."

"Yeah, he is." Freya murmured.

"You'd think after learning he's a prince to an enemy nation you'd be going stir-crazy. I have issues handling this whole thing, but…damn, poor guy." He sighed. "What do we do?"

Freya hung her head. "I'm not sure…do you think it's best to tell him the truth now? I'm a little worried how he'll take it."

"Well look at him." Evan and Freya turned their attention back at Corrin. His stride was more stern than normal. Usually he was so relaxed, but he seemed firm as a Geodude. " We tell him now he's gonna turn into a statue and freeze over."

Freya frowned. "Guess we'll have to wait and see how this goes then." She paused. "But, I'm worried. Are we really going into danger this this?"

"Yeah, we didn't think this through. God." Evan adjusted his beanie. "Well, I guess we should be okay. We have our Pokémon, and we worked pretty well in that canyon, right? Let's just keep our heads down and see how this plays out. If we don't have to fight, great. If so, then…well, we'll make it up as we go along."

Freya raised a brow at his game plan. "You know, for someone so young, you're a very strange thinker, you know that?"

Evan shrugged. "Can't say that's the first I heard of it." He whipped left, seeing something that caught his eye. He reached out to stop Freya. "Look, look!"

Freya stopped and turned with the rest of the people. They saw what appeared to be a small group of black creatures with yellow hats surrounding their bodies. They had large teeth and blue dotted eyes. They traveled in a small pack across the valley, crossing in the way of everybody present.

Ryoma furrowed his brow. "What might these be? Rinkah, are these native to here?"

Rinkah frowned. "No, Lord Ryoma. I'm afraid I haven't seen these before."

Kai needed to be sure himself. He busted out his PokeDex, analyzing what it was they were crossing paths with.

"Snorunt, the Snow Hat Pokémon. It can only survive in cold areas. It bounces happily around, even in environments as low as -150 degrees Fahrenheit."

"Woah…now that's I talk about chilling out." Evan noted. "No pun intended, though."

Kaze eyed Evan, specifically his device. He wanted to say something, but he thought better to keep it to himself for the time being. He eyed the now-labeled Snorunt to see them bouncing around and strolling along in a pack across their way.

Their teeth chattered as breaths of ice huffed every now and again. Just being around them was giving Rinkah some chills down her toned body. Even for someone like her, she was getting cold. "Brrr, is it just me, or did it suddenly get colder around here?"

Ryoma shot her a raised. "I've never known you to be one to complain about the cold, Rinkah."

"Tch, this is nothing, Lord Ryoma." She retorted. "It's probably just a cold front or something. It happens when we go over a mountain pass like this." She watched the creatures make their way beyond them. She reached for her club.

"Uh, Rinkah, what are you doing?" Evan questioned, worry clear in his voice.

"What's it look like? I wonder if those things actually taste pretty good. I could use a little snack along our way to the village."

Evan and Freya looked back and forth with anxiety growing. "Uh, uh…" But thankfully, before they had to try and attempted deterring her for reasons, Ryoma gestured to her.

"Rinkah. Focus now." Ryoma said. "Remember why we're here. No more distractions."

Rinkah frowned, but she knew very well of her place as she politely bowed. "Yes, Lord Ryoma. My apologies." She sighed. "You're right. The pass should lead this way. Come on!" Without further delay, the Snorunt cleared way and the group pressed on.

As they embarked on the trail, one of the Snorunt looked at the other and snickered. The one who was being snockered at noticed why when it tried looking back. There was a tiny Joltik on it clinging for dear life. The Snorunt panicked, jumping and running around in circles, much to its pack's glee. The Snorunt gave his pack a hardened glare and opened his mouth, expelling a bitter frosted breath that extended out and frosted them in the face.

He was the one laughing, as was the Joltik who crawled up to his head. Their laughter and the scene didn't go unnoticed by Ryoma though. He looked back as he watched the creature resume flailing from some tiny furred spider and spewing ice. Likewise with Kaze, he was suspicious as well. But he had to keep priorities in line.


Within a half-hour, they were able to get through the mountain pass relatively well with Ryoma and Corrin leading the charge. Once they had crossed over and made it to the valleys, they overlooked the entire scenery. There were hibernated trees with snow everywhere. Hillsides were surrounding the scenery whereas a small village was sitting at its base.

"I see the village from here." Evan announced. He squinted his eyes and noticed the few embers from within the small walls. "What's that?"

Kaze stepped closer towards the cliff, inspecting the small flames he saw. "Looks to be that they haven't evacuated yet."

Ryoma grunted. "Where are Sakura and Hinoka? They should've evacuated the village by now?"

Corrin looked out at the woodland areas, his eyes narrowing. He could've sworn he was seeing bizarre figments move through them. "Is…anyone else seeing this?"

Evan and Freya looked at the scenery with slight shock, if wide eyes meant anything. They were borderline speechless at the strange creatures that lurked below.

They were tough to describe, but they were moving about aimlessly. They were large humanoid creatures, which were very muscular, but also very slouched over. They had chains and cuffs on their wrists, either to signify they were captive somewhere and escaped, or perhaps by another means. The most bizarre part about them, aside from their bodies being a dull gray and hulking, it could've been the masks that covered their faces. They all looked identical, given the holes in the masks and their equally toned physiques. It would've been cool if not horrifying and disgusting to look at.

Of anything that the two Trainers have seen so far in this world, if they could describe weird, the very definition would be laying out right in front of them. They looked like buffed Conkeldurr without concrete pillars in their hands. Maybe oversized Machoke. It was hard to describe. But one thing was certain, this wasn't setting well in their stomachs. Good thing they weren't too hungry before they came here.

"What the hell are those things?" Evan turned towards Corrin. "Do you know?"

"I don't know either. This is madness." He furrowed his brow as he saw the monsters that were along the snowy hills. He noticed their movements were more stagnant and confused. They seemed to be lagging in focus on something obvious. 'They must've not attacked the village yet. That's why they haven't evacuated. What're they doing…?'

Ryoma raised his head, looking farther out. 'Why are they out here?' His suspicions were just as high as Corrin's if not more. He didn't ponder about it until he came to a realization. 'Perhaps…' He turned towards the others. "Listen, everyone! We must rout the enemy, do you understand? We'll have to divert their attention in best sums as possible! Corrin! Kaze! Rinkah!"

"Understood." Kaze readied his blades/

"With pleasure." Rinkah readied her club.

Corrin held up Ganglari, but his focus was still very much off. "We have to still warn the people just in case. We can't risk injuring civilian lives."

A moment's pause was all the chance Evan and Freya had to take. Evan looked at Freya and he raised his hand. "Uh, Freya can warn the people. I'll, uh, act as security so that they don't get near."

Ryoma gave them a shifty look but he didn't pry further. "Very well then." He brought up his sword and held it forward. "Everyone, to battle! Stop these at once!"

The Nohrians and wayward prince advanced, whereas Evan and Freya weren't too far behind. They trekked lightly as the monsters were still seemingly unaware of them until they reached leveled ground. They snarled and heaved out steam from their many holes in their masks. They looked over at the Hoshidans approaching them.

Up on the hill where they came from, the Joltik that was attached to the Snorunt earlier had hopped onto a nearby rock/ It looked down, seeing the many warriors that were making way towards battle. It's four eyes definitely kept track of Evan and Freya as they embarked for the nearby town. It chirped before hopping over the ledge, seemingly fading.

The next ledge down, what looked like a wild Pidgey chirped as it flew overhead towards Freya and Evan's direction.


Standing outside the village gates, Evan and Freya stood and looked at each other. "Okay Evan, so now what?" Freya questioned. "We're away from danger, so what's the next move?"

"Give me a second alright?" He took a step back from the gateway. He closed one eye and held up his fingers like a camera lens. "Uh…eh…" He looked at the snarling humanoids in the distance and back towards Freya. "…okay, I think I got it!"

Freya put a hand to her hip as she swayed her weight to her luscious large side. "Well you're free to tell me anytime, dreamer boy."

"Okay, so like I told that Crawdaunt-looking dude back there, I'm gonna stay out here and make sure the village gates are closed. Once you're inside, Metapod will use his String Shot to seal it up, until you give the okay. Once you're back out and the gates are shut, the strings will come down, and we'll be good."

"Well what about Electroweb? Why not use that?"

"Well I don't wanna shock the villagers, do I?" Evan argued.

Freya thought about Evan's logic for a minute and "…yeah, you do have a fair point."

Evan pointed inside. "Okay, so go inside, uh…blow your horn."

"Bagpipes." She corrected.

"Yeah, that. And tell them to get inside. Alright, so go!"

Freya nodded. She held no objections as she went inside the open village gates. Evan turned his back and faced the mountains, seeing a few faceless monsters prowling rather dangerously close by. He swallowed a lump. Just looking at the monsters alone was enough to make him wish he was never here in the first place. He thought back to what happened back in the Nohrian kingdom, with those soldiers getting killed by magic. It didn't help that he was chased by ninjas at the Bottomless Canyons either. Between magic and weapons, he didn't know what to expect. He had to be extra cautious this time around.

A shrieking bagpipe noise echoed in the village walls. It was so loud that Evan flinched out of his worries and looked back. 'That's the signal!' He hurried and pulled out two Poke Balls. "Okay, go, Squirtle! Metapod!"

The Poke Balls flew open, popping out the tiny turtle and the green cocoon side-to-side.

Evan pointed towards the gates that were still open. "Okay, Metapod, use String Shot and keep everyone inside!"

"(I'll do my best.)" Metapod rocked his cocoon-hardened body and spat out a large mass of silky thread that flew through the atmosphere. It went side-to-side, going in unkempt zigzag patterns throughout the gateway.

Evan nodded at the craftsmanship and turned towards Squirtle. "Okay Squirtle, now it's our turn. You ready?" He heard thumping of something that came from the hills. He looked up, him and Squirtle feeling an uneasy dread running down their spines. "Uh, oh…"

Turning from around the corner, one of the humanoid monsters caught onto the sound of bagpipes playing. It saw Evan and his Squirtle and Metapod, staring blankly before its fists balled.

"(I think we're in trouble.)" Metapod muttered.

"(Buddy, I think you're right.)" Squirtle agreed.

As the monster drew closer, the Pidgey sailed overhead into the village. It went over the walls, going into the borders of the people who were making way to their homes as Freya was shown to be telling them of the situation. The Pidgey chirped and looked at Freya one more time as it sailed overhead, fluttering its way to a nearby window.

The Pidgey chirped loud enough that inside, there was someone who was over by a sofa and went over. He moved rather slowly, feeling his way towards the window. The person seemed rather young, but with the poor lighting by the window only, one could make out his messy hair and shades over his eyes.

He opened the window, just enough to allow the Pidgey to hop on in. "That you?" He asked. The answer came in a prolonged chirp. "Alright, good work. What'd you find?"

The Pidgey fluttered off the wooden windowsill and ascended into the air. The man waited patiently as he held his hand out. A white cane suddenly dropped from out of nowhere that he seized. He used the cane as a detector, making his way towards the door. "Okay, let's go."


A hunchback old man smiled sincerely at Freya. "Thank you, brave warrior. Everyone here is grateful for your assistance."

Freya backpedaled. "Uh…I'm not a warrior. I was just told by guys who were warriors. But, you're welcome."

The old man compliantly nodded. "Please, take this as a show of our gratitude. We'll prepare just in case." He reached and handed Freya something that she took hold of.

When Freya looked at it, she was skeptical by the way it shimmered. It looked like some icon on a gold metal someone would win at the end of an awards ceremony. It was odd to say the least, but she didn't have the place nor mind to speak when she looked over at the villagers hacking at their own doors shutting. She looked back up at the old man, who was going over to assist in closing the village gates.

Freya turned the fixated medallion around, seeing nothing but a label on the back reading "Goddess Icon". "What is this supposed to be?" She held it up to the sky to see if it was see-through. "A hand-me-down…?"

A set of footsteps drew closer until Freya felt something touch her thick thigh. Startled, she turned around, seeing a person with a white cane.

"Whoops, sorry. My bad." The guy said. He held his cane, which swayed in his arm. "Silly thing has a mind of its own, I swear."

Freya dismissed it, though she still found it somewhat unnerving. "No, it's…okay." She cleared her throat. "Um, are you okay? Did you need help getting to your home?"

The individual prodded his shades. "Nah, I'm good." He heard the sounds of roaring outside the village walls. He looked up with Freya. "Sounds like a hassle out there."

"You can say that." She sighed. "Well, good luck." She unceremoniously turned around, going back towards the entrance. "I have to go and…help them."

The cane wobbled about, prompting the wielder. "You mind if I come too?"

Freya stopped in her tracks, looking back with a raised brow. "Excuse me?" She watched him raise a brow. "Not to be rude here, but do you know how dangerous it is outside? I just warned everyone here to stay inside."

"Right, and I'm thinking of going out there."

"Aren't you holding a white cane? That means you're blind. Don't you think that's way too risky for…" She trailed off when the man held up something. Something that Freya recognized all too well. In his hand, it was a sphere that she resembled much like her own. However, she wasn't caught off guard by the capsules. She was caught off by the person holding them. "That…are those…?"

The man smirked, his cane lifting off the snow-covered ground. "You were saying something about help?"


In farther reaches of the snowy hill beyond the trees, there were two women. One older than the other. One was about Elise's age, if not seemingly younger. She had short red-orange hair with the same shaded eyes. She adorned a white gown over a well-designed dress, fit foe someone of royalty. As to where she was on the ground, holding her leg, the second figure was on a Pegasus with a spear-ended polearm. She had short, messy hair with a darker shade of red compared to the other. Her attire was more battle-ready and resembled a knight almost. These two women were staying close to each other to keep the other safe from harm; the one on the Pegasus was doing most of the work though.

The woman on the Pegasus looked down at her younger sister, seeing her clutching the ankle. "Sakura, are you well enough to stand now?" she worriedly asked.

Sakura, the younger sister, remained on the ground, applying more pressure to her ankle. "I think so…" She attempted to stand, but a pain shot up to her brain. It was enough to make a tear shed on her right cheek. "I'm sorry for slowing us down like this like this. Of all the times to sprain my ankle…"

Hinoka proudly smiled. "Don't you worry. I'll keep you safe. Those stupid, ugly beasts won't get anywhere close while I'm here!" She faced the woodlands, holding her spear up when she saw that a humanoid was getting dangerous within eyesight. 'But there's no telling how many there are around here. We'll have to hurry and take them all down. That village is still under attack!'

The cries of loud monsters shrilled through the atmosphere afar, enough that wild Pidgey that were taking rests from long flights had no choice but to fly away.

Sakura sniffled. "Did…you hear that?"

Hinoka was skeptical as well. She kicked the side of her Pegasus and had it ascend higher into the air. With a snort and running start, the flying horse drew higher into the air. With a higher altitude, she could see clearly of some monsters running amuck in the distance at something.

"Remember the objective! Rout the enemy!" Ryoma declared.

Corrin understood well of the circumstances. His own delusions would have to wait. He made sure to remember his lessons well when he was surveying the area. Looking over, he saw there were a few spots through his vision that resembled little flame portals. His eyes widened at the realization. "Dragon Veins…" he murmured.

Kaze stepped to his side. "Prince Corrin, allow me to assist you in this endeavor."

Corrin nodded. "You got it." He looked ahead and noticed the monsters were roaming over the hill, yet were starting to notice them. One in particular snarled as it saw Corrin and Kaze and started trudging towards them. Corrin looked over at the closest Dragon Vein and stepped on it. He focused his powers and closed his eyes, allowing his draconic essence to flow into the spot. With one last calming breath, he opened his eyes, a very strong and symbolic surge with the emblem of an orange, fiery phoenix overlapping the area. The atmosphere rumbled before the emblem flourished a bright flaring phoenix that sailed towards a nearby hill where dead trees were along the slope. The flare blasted into the hillside, incinerating the trees and leveling the rugged terrain to a flat, snowy mound. The monster that was too close to the spot found itself roaring and falling into the softer mound of snow, hollering in agony and shock.

Watching the scene, Rinkah's eyes were wide in disbelief. "Unbelievable…"

Kaze smirked. He remembered seeing something familiar to that while back in Nohr. 'So this is the power of a royal's Dragon Vein in the works. Impressive.' He held up his blades in readiness. "Prince Corrin!"

"Yeah, back me up on this!"

The monster stirred and glared up at the people in its way. Corrin raced ahead at the monster first, going for a single piercing blow. The monster hollered and unleashed a fist, but Kaze stepped in front and used his blades to block him off. With the opening, Corrin bypassed and slashed the monster down with gusto. No blood sprayed, but the beast unleashed a devastating cry as it fell back into the snow.

"Very well done, Corrin." Ryoma boasted. He looked at a nearby monster that was closing in on him. Without even the slightest hesitation, he passed the beast in the blink of an eye, his blade drawing some kind of electric-like energy as it glazed clean through. The monster fell within a heartbeat.

'So sharp and quick.' Corrin gasped. 'He's just like Xander…'

"I spot another Dragon Vein that lies ahead!" Ryoma shouted. "Corrin, everyone! Let's hurry to the heart of these beasts!"

Rinkah smirked in delight, holding up her club. "Oh, you don't have to tell me twice about that." Without hesitation, she raced with Ryoma as Kaze and Corrin followed close behind.

As Corrin raced into the thicker trees in the range, his gut had this very vague feeling of ache. Something didn't feel right about this. He looked back at the village with a frown. 'Evan…'


The monster 'howled as it raised both of its shackled fists, clinging with the sparks that flew from grinding metals. The beast snarled menacingly as it went over towards Evan.

"Metapod, Electroweb!" Evan cried out. Metapod curved up towards the beast that was hovering over and unleashed an electrifying thread that spewed into a thick web of static. It laced over the monster, covering it in the lightning and electrocuted it. A blue aura enveloped its stunned body, lowering its speed seemingly.

"Squirtle, Bubble!" Squirtle inhaled and fired a blast of blue bubbles towards the hulking beast. The attack was enough to bob and cause small explosions that burst in front of its face, sending it into the ground. The thud it created was loud enough to rattle the domain.

Evan backpedaled towards the gates. He looked back at the gates that were still open. Metapod's earlier thread kept it from allowing people through, but it still wasn't shutting all the way just yet. 'What's taking her so long? I'm starting to get antsy out here-!'

"GRWWOOOOH!"

Evan's bones bridled at the grotesque noise. He whipped around in shock, his attention at the beast that was still up for more. Though it was slower, it was harrowing a clutched fist for Metapod first.

'Metapod can't dodge!' At the last moment, Evan reached out. "Quick! Harden!"

Metapod's body stiffened as his signature move intensified his Defense. With the added thickness, he was hard as steel when the heavy fist slammed into his body. He was blown back and rolled up to Evan's feet, his body having a rather tough bruise on it still.

"Metapod-!" Evan looked up, the large beast still skulking towards him with another fist high. "Ah!" He ducked out of the way in time for the fist to miss. He maneuvered away in a scurrying rush. When he managed to find room, the monster was drawn towards him again.

"(Oh, this isn't good.)" Squirtle gulped. He was currently helping Metapod up by supporting him with his tail. "(C'mon man, now's not the time to be stiff!)"

Evan backed away from the weakened monster as it closed in on him, its holes in its masks steaming from its rasped, hot breaths. With Squirtle and Metapod away, he didn't have a lot going for him. Once again, he was backed into a corner with clutched fists. The beats raised another fist, one that looked like it would hurt.

'Oh fuck!'

Evan duck and huddled away, waiting for the fist to smash him. However, a dark shockwave exuded from the threads, reducing them to bits as they continued towards the monster, sending it on its back once again. This time so hard that it wasn't able to withstand it. Its breath turned the hoarse ache before it stopped moving.

Evan opened and eye, realizing he wasn't in any pain…or dead for that matter. When he looked up, he saw that the beast was dead. "Wait, huh…?"

"Evan!"

Hearing his name, Evan turned around and saw a familiar sight. The gates were closing just as Freya came out with the blind man. Beside him was a creature that looked very much like a black-furred wolf with gray skin. The wolf had sharp claws, and even sharper teeth at that. It had piercing red sclera inside its yellow eyes that could intimidate the ever-loving crap out of any normal human being. Evan especially was withdrawn by this sudden intrusion.

Freya came over to him, helping him up. "Are you alright?"

Still, stunned, Evan subconsciously got back up with Freya's support. "Uh, yeah…yeah…" He blinked. "What just happened?"

The blind man raised his hand, petting his black-furred wolf. "I believe that you're welcome." He grinned.

Evan looked at the new individual, then back at Freya. He switched back and forth until several rounds later that he fixated on Freya; he pointed at him. "Freya…is he blind?"

Freya raised a brow. "I was questioning that, too."

Evan faced the man. "You're blind."

The man tilted his head, his shades keeping his eyes cascaded from everyone else. "And people say I need a cane to move around." He grunted. "Look, point is, you need help, right?"

"Yeah?" Evan answered.

"And if I'm not mistaken, you have Pokémon with you too, right?"

Evan flinched, not just from the secret, but also of how sharp he was. He looked over at Squirtle and Metapod, before turning back towards the blind man. "W-wait, hold up. How did you even know about…?"

"I'll explain later, okay? Now…" His white cane moved on its own. Evan and Freya cringed again for the umpteenth time when the cane was twirling into the air. Instead of coming down, it transformed into a Pidgey, much to everyone's shock.

"Wait, wha-?!" Evan watched the Pidgey fly off in the distance. He and Freya exchanged nervous looks as the Mightyena went past him. The wolf raced up the hill, turning back and barked at them.

"(Over here! This way!)" She barked from a short distance from her Trainer.

Getting over his initial shock, Evan looked at his comrades and cleared his throat. "Uh…uh, o-okay. Anyways…" He looked at the hill. "Corrin's up there. Let's hurry, guys!"

He raced up the hill, with Freya, Squirtle, Metapod, and the blind man in tow.


Faceless monsters drew closer towards Sakura as she cowered away. Just as a fist was ready to knock her down, a naginata came down, slicing the monster's hand clean off. The limb fell to the ground, again with no blood. The beast hollered in agony begore a Pegasus' hooves flew into it, stomping on its face and sending it to the ground.

Hinoka and the Pegasus grounded in front of Sakura, looking back at her. "Are you alright?!"

The younger sister nodded. "Yeah, thanks…look out!"

Hinoka turned around as another faceless creature pounced for her. Its rough body attempted to buffer her off the Pegasus, but she was strapped on tight. She and the horse stammered off to the side as the creature continued attacking, but the naginata was swung thoroughly, cleaving int its chest and down in a gashing slant. Once again, the creature fell over.

Hinoka scoffed. "Hmph. Told you they're no match for me."

Sakura supported herself on one leg. While the other wasn't able, she looked at her sister worriedly. Big sis, are you okay?"

Hinoka smiled. "Yes, Sakura. I'm just fine."

"Here, let me help you." She reached out, sending healing green energy that embraced around Hinoka. The buffering she took from before had minimized to where the small scratches were, there wasn't much else. She pulled back, smiling. "There, that should do it."

Hinoka smiled softly at her. "Thank you for that."

"By the way, Sister…what's happening? What did you find?"

Hinoka looked back at the woodlands, her gaze fixed on what she could've sworn were monsters facing down something in the distance. She seemed more determined than ever. "Help."

"Now! Corrin!"

Ryoma's loud battle cry was what equaled Corrin's level as his body was enveloped around the Dragon Vein spot. Another emblem of a flaming phoenix spawned and caused airwaves to heat up. Another bolting phoenix-like jet sailed across the ground through the atmosphere. It raced over towards the top hill, where it sailed out of their site. A moment later, an eruption of flames followed by shocked cries of monsters echoed loudly. The entire hill caved in again, with the trees around them burning to a crisp and disappearing.

Everyone who was behind Corrin looked on and remained close. Kaze backed him up as the snow was flattening out, revealing another grueling sight to behold.

Scattered in front of them, there were several of these monsters that were coming up from the flattened snow. White mounds uncovered to reveal packs full of these creatures, with numbers close to about half a dozen/ As they arose, there was an even larger in that was in the middle of all of them. It had an extra foot or two above the rest, and had slightly more bulk. Much like the rest, it had a faceless mask with holes, but they were a little wider. The horde of faceless entities were crawling up and digging into the snow with their unkempt, nicked toenails. Suffice to say everyone knew who they were dealing with.

"This must be the heart of their territory." Ryoma braced his blade. "Everyone, show them no mercy!"

The monsters all howled as they charged after them. Corrin and everyone did the same, picking up greater speed to get the upper hand.

"This one's on you!" Rinkah swung her mace around, smacking a monster in the face hard and causing it to stumble back. She looked over and use the weapon to block a monster's punch, but she still slid back on her heel. 'Damned beasts are tough.'

Another beast came up from behind, but she was quick enough to turn around as the fist was coming for her. A shadowy, grim sword suddenly went through its chest, piercing clean through to the other side. The beast gurgled before it slowly crumbled to the ground. She looked up, seeing Corrin and Kaze accounted for with the perpetual save.

"Hmph, not bad." She smirked. "…for a naïve Prince."

The two in front of her charged at the same time. Rinkah was quick enough to act and swung her club around, scoring a breaking swipe across their faces and knocking one into the other. They floored instantly.

"Now!" With high command, Ryoma charged through the air, harrowing down with a piercing swipe coated in the same static energy. He slammed the blade down onto one of the fallen faceless monsters, nearly cutting in two before it dissipated in a dark haze.

Corrin and Kaze faced another monster charging for them. They went on the initiative and Kaze swiped at the knees, quickly backing away. With its support gone, the creature was open to being slashed clean through the chest by Corrin, putting him on his back and fading into a haze.

The four got a good look around as they saw only a few left accounted for, save for the massive one that snarled like a rabid animal and unleashed a violent roar. "GRWOOOOOOOH!" Its hollow cry was loud enough to rattle the airspace around it.

"Everyone! Show them the true power of us Hoshidans!" Ryoma declared.

"GRWOOOOOH!" The monster released another powerful cry that echoed throughout the forest. Coming from all around, the Hoshidans and wayward prince found themselves surrounded with nearly half a dozen more of these monsters sauntered through the trees in the distance. They all congregated around them, snarling menacingly.

Corrin gnashed his teeth. "There's so many of them…"

The biggest of the monsters released a powerful cry once more. With the underlings charging as well, they all went to raise their fists at once. Suddenly, a large spray of bubbles fanned out, as to where dark shockwaves proceeded to cause them all to deter. The monsters al rebuffed harshly.

"What the…?" Rinkah was caught stunned from the development.

A jet of water shot towards the nearest faceless monster's face, gushing it harshly before a spinning piece of coal rammed into its gut, flooring and defeating it.

"Hey, Corrin! Guys!" Everyone was very familiar with the shout from the distance. They all turned around and saw Evan arriving, along with Freya with her Sobble and Rolycoly out to assist. The blind man followed behind, using Freya's shoulder as support.

Corrin's eyes widened in disbelief. "Evan?"

Evan raced up to Corrin. "Sorry for the wait! Are you guys okay?"

Kaze nodded. "Yes, we're just fine. Thank you for your concerns."

"Were you all then able to secure the villagers?" Rinkah questioned. She turned towards the blind man in question. "And…who might this one be?"

The man blankly stared ahead. "I presume you mean me, right?" he waved a hand up.

Ryoma looked skeptically at the man, then back at Evan and Freya. "What's the meaning of this? We thought we told you to secure the villagers! Are you trying to be responsible for this act?!"

"Hey, it's not our idea, I swear!" Evan argued.

"GRWOOOOOOOH!" The large monster's shout was enough to rattle them all to attention. They turned towards the huge humanoid as he and his pack were getting back up. The biggest one especially looked mad as it charged ahead for them.

"Here he comes! At the ready!" Ryoma raised his sword, but much to his shock, the blind man passed him and stood in front with his wolf. "What?"

"We got this. Just wait for it." He said in a serious tone.

Everyone had a look of ill-confidence when the opponent was drawing closer. The minions around were rattled and stepped forward to get at them instead, the attention drawn otherwise.

The blind man faced the skies above, where the Pidgey was flying circles around them. "NOW!"

The Pidgey chirped and suddenly took a steep dive. The massive monster that was supposedly the leader raised a fist as the wolf's teeth bared ice-cold fangs that misted. A monstrous thud literally fell down from above, so hard and so fast that the faceless beast was nearly crushed by the weight of it. The Pidgey that had fallen down turned into a complete replica of it, its feet pressing down on its head and back as a steaming breath exerted from its open mask holes. It released a similar, yet more tamed howl, as it screeched out for battle.

Everyone was bewildered to say the least. All their expressions showed absolute shock at the bird having transformed on the spot. Rinkah's face specifically showed nothing but stupefied shock while the others were more or less placated. Evan and Freya looked towards their Pokémon and back at the scene with confusion; Sobble was on the verge of her own panic attack once more at seeing these hulking monsters, let alone the one shapeshifter.

"What the hell?! Did it just transform into a copy just now?!" Evan gasped.

"What's going on here?!" Ryoma backlashed. He was ready to run through this beast, but he turned towards the blind man. "Sir, tell me what's the matter here!"

"Do you wanna ask that now? While you're being attacked? Or would you rather wait until the smoke clears?"

Ryoma looked back at the scene. He saw the massive, hulking faceless beast stand up, only for its copy to step on him again. The beast struggled underneath but eventually it was able to arise with one whip of its head. The beast unleashed a menacing scowl as it tackled the clone. Its force was enough to force it to slide across the snow-covered ground inch by inch.

Ryoma wanted to get to the bottom of this, but he knew he had to relent for now. "You're right. We'll discuss the matter more appropriately. Everyone!"

Freya reached out. "Rolycoly, use Smokescreen!" Her Rolycoly silently leaned forward, expelling a large mass of thick, black smoke that fanned out across the area. It fanned out dramatically around the monster's lower halves to obscure their full vision. "Alright, hurry!"

"Got it, thank you Freya!" Corrin raised Ganglari as he and Kaze darted through the smoke. They both remained silent as they took the one creature by surprise. Kaze slashed at the feet, causing it to lurch forward into Corrin's blade, which cleaved into the upper body with ease.

Rinkah yelled as she went barreling at another nearby monster. The beast unleashed a scowl as it swung its fists, but Rinkah ducked and swung the club skywards, knocking the creature's neck right out of place. With it falling down, she turned and swung at another's face, knocking it to the ground.

Ryoma wasn't far behind as he leaped through and out the smoke in a rapid frenzy of lightning. He zipped around until he slashed clean through the few that were in his way. By the time the smoke dissipated, so did the monsters.

"Sobble, use Bind!" Freya shouted.

Sobble swallowed a lump as she quivered in place. "(I-I-I-I'll give it a s-shot…)" Her stuttering was all from her timid nature. She was on the verge of wetting herself if it wasn't for reflexes. With smoke still barely around, she held her breath and crawled up towards the beast. Her tint body allowed her to creep up and wrap her tail around the beast's face. It screeched at the small constriction, enough to give a headache and whirl around. Sobble hung on for dear life as she wailed and panicked madly. "(WHY DID I EVER AGREE TO THIS?!)"

Freya pointed ahead. "Hurry Rolycoly, use Rapid Spin!"

"(…)" Rolycoly spun in place and gathered up momentum. Once ready, he spun like a top and charged at the wailing monster. He leaped up, striking ablow into the chest. The beast wailed as Sobble jumped off just as the back of its head hit a tree. It slumped down, allowing Sobble to land beside Rolycoly. She had tears on her face as she was a shaking mess.

"(I was so scared there! Why did she make me do that?!)" She cried, before jumping over and hugging Rolycoly. "(Waaaah! Hold me!)"

"(…)"

Evan faced a nearby faceless monster. It howled as it raised its shackled fists and came down for him. Thankfully he was able to maneuver away in time. But the lack of oriented balance wasn't helping him. He found himself pinned against the ground, the monster snarling over him.

"Hey! You there!" Ryoma's shout caught Evan's attention. "Use this!" He tossed what looked like a spare, thin bronze katana towards Evan. It shot and pierced the ground beside him, making him flinch.

"Gah!" He winced at the thought of the blade nearly cutting him. He looked at Ryoma, then back at the blade. "What?! I can't use this thing! How do I even hold it, like a butterknife or something?!"

"(Hey, watch it Evan!)" Metapod warned.

Evan turned around to find the monster closing in on him again, its fist already up and ready to strike him down. Out of reflex, he had no choice. He looked at the katana and attempted to pry it out of the snow. He yanked on it a little too hard, causing him to fall onto his back. He looked at the thin blade in confusion and noticed the monster nearly atop of him. As its fist came down, he closed his eyes and went for his best shot.

"GAAAAH!"

With a mix of prime and anguish, Evan looked away as he heard the sound of a loud shriek. The monster's wails and the jutting of his bronze blade made him open and eye. Looking back, his eyes were a little shaken as he saw the piercing hole in its gut. The monster recoiled slightly, but Evan was still in shock. He quickly spat out an attack.

"Metapod! Squirtle, now! Tackle!"

Hearing the command, Squirtle and Metapod looked at each other and nodded. Together, they barreled into the stuttering monster's body with all their might. The force was what brought it onto his back, thumping harshly.

Evan watched as it dissipated along with the others in a dark haze. He was panting harshly. He looked down at his hands holding the katana, they were a shaking mess. However, he held onto it for his own life. "My god…did I really just do that…?"

Corrin raced up to him. "Evan, are you hurt?!"

Evan shook his head. "N-no. I…I don't think so." He gasped. "Wait, what about the blind guy?"

The clone monster socked a fist into the massive leader's face. He shrieked as he cowered back. He went back to deliver another blow to the clone, but the clone was diligent enough to backpedal and evade effectively.

The blind man reached out to give a command. "Now, Mightyena, use Thunder Fang!" His wolf snarled her fangs lit up with crackling electricity that bristled the sides of her mouth. She closed in on the monster at lightning speed and lunged for the neck, snapping her jaws and electrocuting the beast. A shrieking cry of agony stunned everyone as the wolf backed away as the leader was unable to move. More so, it had a deep bite mark inside the neck.

The clone grunted as it raised its foot and pressed on the leader's head. That one blow was enough to cause a sound similar to eggshells breaking that made Evan and Freya cringe.

The haze of the monster settled away leaving the blind man to stand firm as the cloned creature jumped into the air before transforming back into what looked like a white cane. It plopped in front of him, in which he picked it up. Mightyena trotted over with her tail impishly wagging. He could feel that it's been settled.

Evan lurched forward, breathing from the adrenaline that's settling. "Ugh…ugh…oh god." He grimaced. "Please tell me this nightmare's over."

Kaze lifted his head, looking around. He saw the remnants of the shackled monsters leaving no trace of them, aside from their indents in the hard-pressed snow. "It would seem so."

Freya sighed in relief, along with Sobble, who was quivering and crying tears of joy on the still quiet Rolycoly.

"Hinoka! Sakura!" Ryoma didn't derive from the task at hand. He rushed over towards where he would find his sisters. The others paused and chose to follow him. Mightyena trotted ahead as the white cane the blind man held onto was used like a radar that pulled him forward.

Freya was following behind, along with her Pokémon. Sobble and Rolycoly moved quickly as possible. However, Rolycoly came across a small bump, one that caught Sobble and Freya's attention.

"Are you okay, Rolycoly?" Looking back, Freya went over and checked on Rolycoly, including the spot that he fell on. She noticed something stocking out of the ground that looked like a very thin disc. "What's this?" She reached down and pulled it up. When she looked at it, it looked very much like any other DVD disc, only it was a deep blue shade and was labeled something. "TM 36: Whirlpool." She mumbled aloud.

"Freya!"

Evan's shout from the distance got her attention. "Yes, I'm coming!" She took one more look at the TM and put it away. "I'll save this for later. C'mon, you two." She hurried along with her bagpipes, Sobble, as well as Rolycoly pacing after her.


Ryoma rushed over towards his sisters, whom were soundly in one piece. Much to his relief. Hinoka looked fairly well, despite a few dents in her armor. She looked to have taken some damage, but nothing major. "My sisters! Are you alright?!" He helped Hinoka unmount to Pegasus, who neighed and lowered its head to give Hinoka space.

"Thank you, Ryoma." Hinoka smiled. "I appreciate your assistance."

Sakura smiled softly. "Thank you all so much for coming to our aid. Those monsters had so many numbers, we were worried." She looked over at the others. "But, if I may ask…who might you all be?"

Corrin cleared his throat. "Hi there. I'm-!"

Hinoka walked up between them, staring Corrin in the face. Her smile was soft and warm. "Sakura…this is Corrin."

Corrin was caught surprised by how she knew of him so readily. But he figured it was better to leave that kind of question alone. He could already guess given by the softening mist in her eyes.

Sakura raised a brow. "Uh, sister…are you okay?"

"Corrin…finally…it's you!" She steadily walked over towards him and bowed her head, placing it onto his chest as she sobbed lightly. Her body hitched with every breath she took, enough of a rupture to make Corrin nearly lose his balance.

Freya and Corrin looked at each other confusedly. The blind man supported himself on his white cane as he could hear the sobs crystal clear.

"Corrin…I've missed you so much…" Hinoka croaked not his armored chest. "S-sorry."

"Uh, uh…!"

Ryoma crossed his arms and gave a hardy chuckle. "Hinoka was so attached to you when you were still so young, Corrin. You can't blame here. When you were taken, she couldn't stop crying for months…until one day, she picked up the naginata."

"Is that so?" Corrin was able to calm himself, at least for a little while. He looked back at Hinoka, trying his best to give a half-smile. "Sorry to have made you worry…"

Hinoka finally gathered her bearings and backed away. She sniffled and wiped tears from her eyes as a flushed pink filled her cheeks. "I'm sorry…it's just that I'm not this emotional. But, it's just so unbelievable."

'Takes one to know one.' Evan thought to himself.

Sakura approached Corrin, looking at him with worry. "Wait, so this is really Corrin?"

Ryoma nodded in confirmation. "Yes, indeed. But, we have much to discuss. We should make way to home now, before more of those monsters are sent by Nohr to terrorize everything else around here." He turned towards Sakura. "Are you well?"

"I-I think so…" Sakura attempted to stand, but she found herself nearly falling, supported by Hinoka. "I'm so sorry!"

"Your ankle is sprained good." Hinoka grimaced. "We better find some bandages or Vulnerary." She grunted. "But I just used my last one earlier. Where are we gonna find another?"

The underbrush nearby shook, alerting everyone. They all turned towards the dead tree, seeing something stumble out.

It was a rather large, humanoid creature that had a creamy body, but also had a hot pink body with arms and legs. It had a fluffy tail, accompanied with very eccentric-looking ears with little curled tails on them. It had large blue eyes and a small mouth.

The creature walked out, looking around as her ears fluttered. "(What's all the noise around here. It was so disastrous that I…)" She looked ahead, seeing Sakura's sprained ankle. "(Oh dear!)"

Freya leaned in to Evan. "What is that, Evan?"

"Hang on, let me see…" Wary of what it was, he reached for his PokeDex, analyzing the creature that was waddling towards Sakura.

"Audino, the Hearing Pokémon. It touches others with the feelers on its ears, using the sound of their heartbeats to tell how they are feeling."

"Another Pokémon?" Freya whispered. "Are they everywhere?"

Evan shrugged. "I don't know, just play along."

Kaze looked over at the two whispering and looked back at the Audino as it approached Sakura.

"Um, hello there." Sakura nervously quipped. She saw the Audino staring at her, looking down at her body to see if she was injured anywhere. "Um, c-can I help you…?"

Audino used the feelers on her ears and uncurled them. They stuck out, directing towards Sakura. The slight touch made Sakura tingly. But Audino listened to her quickened heartbeat and traced it down to her ankle. It pulled back, looking down specifically at the joint.

"W-What are you doing?" Sakura's voice cracked with uncertainty. She, as well as everyone, saw something that nearly made them all jump.

The Audino put its hands together, generating a bright pink, sparkling aria that flourished across the area over Sakura's heel. The sprain in the ankle was quickly healing itself. The waves traveled around Sakura, and spread towards Hinoka. Likewise, she was healing herself as well. In no time, they found themselves without pain nor scratches.

"(There you go.)" the Audino chimed.

Hinoka felt her body, turning her elbow around to feel nothing wrong. "What the…? My body, it's like it's all calm just now…" She turned towards Sakura. "Sakura, are you okay?"

Sakura looked down at her ankle, the pain that it felt when she was attempting to stand had settled dramatically. In fact, hardly anything was wring with. "It's…it's a miracle. I'm okay!" She chirped. She turned towards the Audino. "Uh, t-thank you. I don't know what else to say!"

Audino smiled wide and waddled closer, embracing Sakura softly. Much to Sakura's quelled surprise, she was at a loss for how soft Audino was. Her hug was surprisingly soft, and tender…and fluffy.

"O-Okay…thank you." Sakura awkwardly hugged back. She tried prying herself, but the Audino kept hugging. "Um, I-I'm good I think. Um, hello?"

"I-I think it's a hugger." Evan muttered.

The blind man rolled his neck. "Oh, so it's one of those types, huh?"

Ryoma turned towards Evan, frowning in a serious way. "Young man, explain yourself if you can. There's something about this that we're not following."

Evan's eyes widened slightly. He looked back and forth between Squirtle and Metapod and back at them. "Uh, w-wha…what are you saying, exactly?"

"These creatures. Kaze informed me about meeting someone from the southern hemisphere who has these little creatures who are able to use mystical means of powers." He and Evan looked over at Kaze and Rinkah, the latter shrugging.

"Hey, we had to explain everything. Couldn't let the Nohrians one-up us."

"And secondly…that." He pointed towards Mightyena and the white cane that transformed earlier. "An animal capable of using elemental attacks, and a shapeshifter. And lastly…" He turned towards the Audino, who now had embraced Sakura and Hinoka at the same time. An awkward pension spilled between the group as Ryoma's last reference hit it home. "We have much to discuss about Corrin, but what is this?"

"Evan?" Corrin shot his friend a look of concern.

Evan, Freya, and the blind man all looked at each other with the accusing inquiries finally pinned on them. They were speechless to say the least, let alone unsure of what to say. Evan especially was stuttering so much as he looked at everyone that he was barely able to process.

"Look, look. We can solve this." The blind man offered. "Let's head back to the village, and we'll explain everything from there, sound good?"

Ryoma folded his arms. "Hmph, very well."

As they started walking, Evan turned around and lowered his head. 'Well, this sure got awkward.' He sighed to himself. He figured it wouldn't be long, not with all the mayhem being displayed by the Pokémon and the earlier signs. It was time to get everything out in the open.

"Um, y-you can let go of us. We're good now." Sakura pleaded. She, as well as Hinoka, were still being hugged by the affectionate Audino. "Guys? Someone?!"


The door to the empty, dark abode closed completely. The blind man went over towards the curtains, where the white cane detected them and pulled them over. Once everything was sealed tight, his white cane pointed him back towards the group.

He sighed. "Alright…so where do you wanna start?"

Rinkah crossed her arms, huffing to herself. "How about what is it that you have? That weird cane for starters."

"This?" He held up his white cane. "This…well, okay. You can come out now."

The white cane transformed again, but to something that was completely recognizable by them. Everyone watched the white cane become a gelatinous pink blob that shrank to about a foot tall. The pink gel mass had beady eyes and a meek mouth. The mass looked at everyone, wiggling around like it was saying hello.

Corrin's eyes widened. "What? Did it just…shapeshift?"

Kaze turned towards Evan, giving him an estrange look. "What…?"

"I believe this is the part where you use your item to tell us just what kind of creature that is."

Evan flinched at the accusation. He didn't know Kaze would be paying attention to that. He swallowed a lump and shakily reached for it. "Uh, y-yeah…" He pulled out the PokeDex once again, analyzing the creature that was there, but for their sakes not his.

"Ditto, the Transform Pokémon. It can reconstitute its entire cellular structure to change into what it sees, but it returns to normal when it relaxes."

"A creature that's able to transform at will?" Hinoka repeated.

Ryoma put a hand to his chin, furrowing his brow. "That would explain why it transformed into one of those Faceless. The soul-less monsters created by Nohrian mages."

Corrin looked over, surprised by this revelation. It's like the whole Ditto reveal went past him. "Wait…Nohrian mages?" He quipped. "But, they wouldn't do that!"

"Then what do you call that we just escaped from?" Hinoka asked. She had finally gotten out of the Audino's embrace, and instead it was latched onto her younger sister. "They've closed you off for more reasons than you think, Corrin. I'm sorry to tell you this."

"No way…"

Evan frowned at the circumstances befalling his ally. If he could say something to help him ease himself, he would. But nothing beneficial came to mind. He instead turned towards the blind man and his Ditto. "So then, who might you be?"

The man nodded and presented a badge to Evan and Freya. They recognized it as a legit badge that symbolized their International Police Force. "Right, sorry for not telling you sooner. Things got in the way. My name is Keith Harris. Pleasure is all mine."

Freya's eyes widened. "An…International Police member? Here of all places."

"So we weren't the only ones brought here. Just like we thought." Evan figured, but he took a look back at everyone in the room. He could tell this wouldn't be too easy to take in, but now they were to deep. He sighed heavily. "Okay…it's time." He exhaled deeply. He flexed his fingers and turned around to face his peers. "Okay, everyone. Listen. There's something we need to explain."

"I think that's pretty obvious." Rinkah deadpanned, her tone hinting annoyance.

"Right. About everything, it's gonna be a lot to take in. So…please bear with us." He looked at Corrin. "And Corrin, you especially might wanna sit down. We've got a lot to say."

Everyone looked towards each other and abided by what he had to say. The three Trainers stood up and presented themselves as well as the tale they had to explain.

For the next ten minutes, Evan started talking about the mysterious creatures that have been brought up recently, about how they came and went all of a sudden, how there were so many, and how they – especially – weren't from here. By the time they finished explaining, everyone in the room was completely quiet.

"So let me get this straight." Rinkah summarized, her voice hinting suspicion. "So, Evan, you lied when you said you and those creatures were from the southern regions then. And instead, you all came from another world with these things known as 'Pokémon'?"

Evan lowered his head shamefully. "Yeah, I know. Sorry I lied about that. But I didn't think you'd believe me."

Kaze folded his arms, but he seemed to be taking it well. "That would explain everything about you. The devices you have regarding your pets, they're far from native here. The way you're dressed is a giveaway as well."

Corrin's eyes were wide at the revelation. "So then, that lightning storm, just a few days ago. It was…"

"A spatial anomaly that was really Pokémon, and possibly others from our world having been brought over to this one." Keith explained. Ditto was sitting on his lap, whereas Mightyena was sitting upright as he ran his fingers through the fur on her head. "I found myself just outside this village when I was transported, so that's why I've been here. I have heard though from villagers who had lightning strike nearby tell there were these weird little creatures. And there was the war between Hoshido and Nohr."

"So then this thing over here is…" Hinoka looked at Sakura, who was freed from the Audino who moved to hug Kaze. The ninja cringed at the soft hug out of nowhere.

"Is a Pokémon then?" Sakura realized.

Keith nodded. "You guessed it."

Ryoma furrowed his brow further. He seemed more serious than ever. "So that's what's happening then." He lowered his eyes and closed his eyes to recount the recent events that occurred. "Our borders around Hoshido have been having some accidents with people being attacked often by these wild creatures. We've been sending our forces to investigate, but they come back with some sort of ailment or otherwise." He turned towards Freya. "You there."

Freya perked up. "Yes?"

"These Pokémon, are they truly that dangerous? That's what I wanna know. We have innocence at risk, we need to confirm their safety if this problem can't be fixed."

Freya knew better than to lie about all this. She wasn't all for Pokémon being genuinely good or bad. But she couldn't deny either the threat even an Ursaring can pull off, or maybe even a Tyranitar. "Well, that's hard to explain…"

"Only under the influences." Keith abruptly cut her off. "It's true, some Pokémon are very territorial, especially the way things are now. They were removed from their natural habitats, so it's unlikely they'll be too cooperative. However, just like pets, Pokémon have brains. And they're also very impressionable." As an example, he scratched Mightyena's chin, making her smile and wag her tail back and forth. "In our world, a lot of humans beside Pokémon to use their potential for good, and there are those whom are bad as well. Keep that in mind."

Rinkah was budged from the side. She looked over at the Audino that was hugging her waist now. "Well, we don't have to worry about this one, apparently." She hissed.

"You make it sound like they can be weapons." Ryoma forewarned. "If the Nohrians pick up on this…we'll have worse to deal with than those Faceless."

Keith raised a hand. "Okay now, let's not get ahead of ourselves." He paused. "Listen, we're aware of this war, and while Pokémon can be trained, you better keep in mind it's not about control. It's a partnership."

Ryoma squinted. "If what you say is true, then we'll need more proof of this."

"What do you want?" Evan questioned. "We just want to find a way back home. We've been through enough already. I've held up a damn sword and stabbed something. Look at me." He held up his hand. It was still shaking.

"Evan…" Corrin was at a loss for what to say as well. He looked down with uncertainty of his own. With everything that's been said in the past day, he didn't know how he was still standing. It was tough to make out anything at all. What was there to say even? The two were essentially in the same boat. They were overloaded with information they couldn't stomach. They've learned family secrets and thrust into battle together. And now, to top it all off, these wild creatures spotted have been running a muck are from another world, along with three humans who knew about this better than any of them.

Despite the leniency given towards them, the Audino waddled over, embracing Evan. Unlike the others, he didn't out up a fuss. "…thanks."

"(Anytime, sweetie.)" The furry healer chimed.

Hinoka turned towards Ryoma. "What do we do?"

Ryoma lowered his head as he thought if the circumstances; the Audino waddled over and went to hug his waist next. He didn't object to it, though it did make him feel slightly unnerved. He furrowed his brow and came to a rational conclusion.

"We'll need time to sort this all out. For the moment at least, we'll be heading back to Hoshido. We'll need to catch Hinoka and Sakura on with Prince Corrin's return. And also, we will have to present this matter to Mother. Evan, Freya. Would you please come along? Your insight will be most crucial to us."

Evan took a moment to consider. "Well…I guess so. Freya?"

Freya nodded. "Sure. But…" She turned towards Keith. "What about Keith?"

"Me?" Keith stood up, his Ditto transforming back into a solid white cane. "Thanks for the offer, but I'm gonna have to pass for now."

"You sure?" Evan questioned. "We Trainers gotta stick together."

"I understand. But Evan, was it? Hear me out. We have to cooperate here. I'm not going because of the situation of Hoshido and Nohr. If there's you guys, then there is a likely chance there are other Trainers around as well. And as a member if the International Police, it's…kinda my job to bring them in. So my option, is that while you try and smooth things over with the Pokémon and the people for the time being, I'll scout the areas and find any Trainers. Sound like a deal?"

Evan and Freya looked at each other with uncertainty. It sounded a little risky, but what more did they have to lose. They turned around and Evan nodded. "Okay, but keep in touch."

Keith waved at them. "You'll be in Hoshido, right? I can't see but I can hear. If I hear anything up, I'll send Ditto for ya."

"Okay."

Ryoma nodded. "Very well then. Everyone, let us return with this news!"

Everyone decided to play it out and followed Ryoma. They exited the village, greeting and being given humble thanks to by the villagers in the process. As they walked, Sakura was still being embraced by the Audino as it came along.

"Uh, okay. I guess you can come along then." She nervously chuckled. The Audino hugged her tighter, much to her embarrassment. "Er…"

As they were leaving the house, Evan looked back at Freya. "Hey, Freya, don't forget your bagpipes."

"I know." She packed up whatever supplies she needed and went for the windowsill and grabbed her bagpipes, which were sitting at the bottom. "Ugh, why do I even…? Hm?" She lifted her head, seeing something that was slouched on the windowsill.

Staring at her in the face, she was what looked like a very small, white worm. It had very tiny mandibles and what appeared to be extremely stubby legs beneath. Its soft, white body was covered sharp icicles like a shell would. Its heady eyes looked up at her, meekly blinking.

Freya gasped. She recognized this Pokémon from her region. 'A…Snom?' She bet over, making sure to not get too close now. "Hello, little guy? What are you doing here?"

The little Snom didn't say anything, her mandibles wriggling back and forth. Freya couldn't help but smile at the thing.

"You're so cu~te." She reached a finger out and scratched Snom's cheek. The little worm meekly chirped and happily nudged into her finger. Freya's smile softened as she saw the worm, but her mind thought to what the situation was. "I wonder how many more Pokémon there are out here still?" Looking around, she looked at the Snom. "Say, little sweetie? Did you wanna come along with us?"

The Snom tilted her head in confusion. "(Sure. You're cool.)" Unsure of what the response could be, she decided to take a gander.

"Um…okay?" She lifted a Poke Ball and popped it on Snom's head. The little worm gave no objections as it was sucked into the Poke Ball, much like Caterpie was in the past. The ball sealed tight on the windowsill, rolling around several times as Freya waited for it to unveil the truth.

A 'click' sound was heard loud and clear. The Poke Ball ceased its rattling and Freya moved to pick it up. She smiled sweetly at it.

"There. Guess I should welcome you then." She smiled cutely.

"Freya?! What's holding ya?!"

Evan's shout from the distance alarmed her. Realizing she was being held behind, she rushed out with her bagpipes. "Sorry, I'm coming!" She hurried up to her comrades, her bagpipes laced to her side, whereas her newly caught Snom was on her palm.

Facing the exit, Keith snickered. He didn't see it, but he definitely heard it. He petted Mightyena again as he straightened his back. "Alright…guess it's time to get to work again."


Party Data:

Evan

-Squirtle (Male)

Lv: 12

Item: None

Nature: Mild

Ability: Torrent

Moves: Tackle, Tail Whip, Bubble, Bite

-Metapod (Male)

Lv: 9

Item: None

Nature: Modest

Ability: Shed Skin

Moves: Tackle, String Shot, Electroweb, Harden

Freya

-Sobble (Female)

Lv: 11

Item: None

Nature: Timid

Ability: Torrent

Moves: Pound, Growl, Water Gun, Bind

-Rolycoly (Male)

Lv: 9

Item: None

Nature: Quiet

Ability: Steam Engine

Moves: Tackle, Smokescreen, Rapid Spin

-Snom (Female)

Lv: 10

Item: Snowball

Nature: Bold

Ability: Shield Dust

Moves: Powder Snow, Struggle Bug

Keith

-Ditto

Lv: 20

Item: Quick Powder

Nature: Quirky

Ability: Limber

Moves: Transform

-Zorua (Female)

Lv: 18

Item: Wise Glasses

Nature: Sassy

Ability: Illusion

Moves: Fake Tears, Extrasensory, Feint Attack, Pursuit

-Mightyena (Female)

Lv: 18

Item: Black Glasses

Nature: Rash

Ability: Quick Feet

Moves: Snarl, Fire Fang, Ice Fang, Thunder Fang


So now we finally meet another OC Trainer, Keith. Wanna give creds to this OC by Antex-The Legendary Zoroark, who suggested this OC. There were some alterations, but nothing too keen otherwise. With him being blind, that'll be shown at a later time, I assure you.

That was a long battle that I wrote, but I think I did a good enough job with describing everything. At the end it still ended up under 12K, which is good. Let me know how you thought this all went. An as for Freya ascertaining the Goddess Icon, TM Whirlpool, and a Snom, don't worry, they'll all come into play later.

Reviews are very appreciated Thanks a lot for reading guys! Until next time! XD