Chapter 49- Black Alley Dealings

A/N: Alright… Just so people won't be too confused, and start thinking. "hey, did the author post the wrong chapter?" I skipped over Radomus' Gym Battle. It's not anything too particular… I liked Radomus' part of the story. But all the dialogue before the battle even during it can be a little confusing (Not to mention difficult since half of Percival's team is psychic types…). So, it's just been skipped, but I will definitely give the best description of what happened during that time.

Other than that, I realize in a timeframe perspective… what I suggest for the time between chapter 44 and 45 makes no fucking sense… I'm not going to change it… because I made a mistake and I will live with it.

As always, this Fantastic Pokémon Fan Game was made by Amethyst. If you wish to play, download it at Reborn Evolved. (I for the life of me, don't know how to post links on this site. Search for it with your respective Web Browser.) Enjoy the story!

Time: 20:20

Location: Vanhanen Castle

It had been quite some time since, the group returned. Percival and Cain explained what happened while chasing after Gardevoir to Lucille. Who was completely dumbfounded at the idea that Percival fought Arceus and won (Albeit a Ditto in the form of Arceus). But nonetheless was she extremely happy that they had made it back.

Though, Lucille wasn't particularly happy with the thought that Radomus is in current possession of the Amethyst Pendant. There was another side… her seeing Radomus holding it, seemed correct. so, despite her want, she didn't question it.

Though, none of the three were happy with Radomus as he introduced someone new… or rather, a foe in disguise. Percival and Cain, hell even Luna, recognized the man as El. The man who had kidnapped Gardevoir, who had attack Percival with a Ditto-ceus, and who was the father of Luna. Though… this time he was introduced as Elias, a butler who would be working at that Castle. Not that the four really liked the idea, or really believe.

This caused distrust to arise in Percival, Cain, and Lucille. Lucille who had grown attached to Luna was angry at Radomus for doing such an event. Cain was worried, as El had previously accused Radomus of brain washing. With how Elias was, Cain thought Radomus might have brainwashed him. Percival however didn't believe that. Percival easily saw that Radomus was smart, though he seemed to be fooled, Percival could tell that Radomus was thinking several steps ahead of his opponent. But even still the idea Radomus willingly let Elias in, worried Percival. How willing was Radomus to hurt others to achieve his own goals?... it wasn't something Percival nor I liked.

But even still, Percival came to the Vanhanen Castle for a reason. That reason was to have a Gym Battle. That battle would come and pass, during that time. It was an extremely hard battle, for Percival. For as adept as Percival was with Psychic Types, Radomus on the other hand had years more in experience. Though, Percival did have the more versatile type coverage for his team. While it was a long battle, Percival managed to come out the winner of the fight.

It was a victorious moment for Percival, as he managed to score his eighth Reborn Badge. Another badge closer to facing off the Reborn Region's Pokémon League. Though, questions like: Why was he still doing this? Percival was disowned by his family, why should he still be doing this? What was he going to accomplish by becoming champion? Though it still reigned in the back of his mind. Percival had come to Reborn with a clear goal, why should he give up now?

With his victory in tow, a small discussion was held on what to do next. Percival was going to presumably face off against Luna, Reborn's Dark-Type Leader. As Luna was describing her Gym, Vanhanen Castle surpassingly had its power cut. Leaving Everyone immersed in darkness. Cain, Lucille, and Luna who were on the viewing stands, left through their way. Radomus presumably teleported out with Gardevoir. While Percival was making his way out, through the way he came in, the Gym Puzzle.

Percival walked through the near pitch-black puzzle rooms, toward the main room. Percival grumbled to himself as he kicked yet another one of the giant Chess pieces used for the puzzle. It was dark. Given the current time, the sun had set, unable to shine any light into the castle.

Creak!

Percival had heard the door creak as he finally entered the first Puzzle room. Though he could not see who it was, but the atmosphere changed, giving Percival the idea of who exactly it was. Giving his senses best guess he could, Percival faced the direction. "Elias."

"Well met, young Master." Elias called back to Percival. His voice resounding through the room. Percival still wary of this man, especially now since his team was exhausted. While wondering what to do, Elias continued to speak. "Please, follow me. I have already secured an escape route from our assailants."

"…" Percival stiffened as he heard that. Escape route? Assailants? It would appear, whatever Radomus' plans are… are starting now.

"This way, swiftly." Elias had said, managing to grasp a hold of Percival's hand.

"…" Percival knew there was nothing to be done. Elias had him where he wanted. The only thing that could be done, is hope that Lucille, Cain, or Luna would come to his rescue. But even so, it was unlikely. Elias would probably lead Percival to a secluded area where he would be captured.

Slam!

Doors slam shut, as Percival was forced into the foyer. Two Meteor Grunts standing at the doors. Flashlights in hand. Percival was surrounded on enemies on two side. most definitely unable to defend himself. Elias' grip on Percival was dropped, as the two grunts grabbed hold of him.

Elias had a grin on his face. "As they say, "Checkmate.""

"…" Percival cursed his own luck, as he still held the Ruby Ring. If he had given it back to Lucille, maybe there would have been a chance for it not be in the hands of Meteor. But that seems to have failed. Percival wished that whatever plan Radomus had, that he would have told him of all people.

"As one would think. You are not surprised." Elias insight on Percival's face. Gathered that Percival knew Elias was playing a role. "Of course, I should not have remained under the swine's spell for long. And yet why, knowing that would be the case, should he allow me into his estate?"

While Elias asked, Percival. Percival had nothing to say. He was too busy, desperately trying to think of a way out. But as it stood, Percival, in no kind words was screwed. "…"

"Perhaps he somehow believed he had brainwashed me as thoroughly as he did my daughter." Elias had continued. Elaborating more into his plan. "And so, it has become all the easier to reclaim her. Of course, I'll suffer none to stand in my way."

Percival knew he had long ago, made Elias his enemy. It was a short, but growing list. Ever since Percival arrived in reborn, it had been growing more and more with each passing day. Growing with each encounter he had with Team Meteor. "I think you'll have to get in line. There too many people who hate me already. And I know I'm the top in a certain person's hit list."

"Yes. Solaris has told me all I need to know about your impudent meddling with Team Meteor." Elias said, annoyance in his tone. Though Solaris was one of the major enemies that Percival had made, Solaris wasn't the one Percival was talking about. But in this situation, who was he to say anything? "I shall not permit you to interfere with their divine purpose. Eradicate the unclean city, restore the ruin below it to greatness. TO all who would thwart that design, judgment shall—" Elias' ramblings were cut short as someone yelled over him.

"Nidoking!" It was a familiar voice. Followed by the Door being kicked in by a giant Purple Pokémon, with several horns, spiney ears, a deep white chest. Following behind the Nidoking, was his train, a boy with purple hair, purple jacket, fishnet t-shirt, jeans and boots. This was none other than…

"Cain!" Percival shouted in delight as Cain had not only burst through the doors. But also knocking out the two Meteor Grunts that were holding him.

"Percival!" Cain breathed heavily; it was obvious that he'd been fighting. The number of Meteor grunts he's taken on is unknown. "They've caught Luna and Lucy!"

"Damnit…" Percival cursed. He would have thought if Radomus wasn't here. He would have done something to cover those two. What on earth was Radomus doing?

"They should have captured you as well." Annoyance reigned in Elias' voice. This was not going as he planned.

"Yeah, well, I don't go down without a fight." Cain stated, with a slight shrug. "Or at least some sweet talk first."

"Hey, if we get out of here. Especially with Lucille and Luna. I'll give you all the sweet talking you'd like." Percival said, seeing that his odds just dramatically increased.

"Your lecherous implications only condemn you further." Elias was appalled by their talking. But as realizing they wouldn't be surrendering. "Do you believe that the two of you together can best me?"

"Want to find out?" Percival taunted. He already knew that by no means, Elias was weak. The chances as they stood would probably spell out defeat for the two. Whether they worked together or not, but it was all Percival could think to do. But even so… Percival would most likely only be a burden to Cain…

"Do not mistake my little experiment of drawing on our Lord Arceus' power as the limit of my own ability." Elias warned the duo.

"Your ability doesn't matter right now. I know what I gotta do." Cain raised his hand, Nidoking moving to force Elias out of the way.

For an older man, Elias moved out of attack, easily. "your petty attacks mean nothing."

"Yeah, I know." Cain said.

"…" Percival looked closely at what Cain had done. He had got Elias away from the door. The two had an escape. but if nothing was done about Elias, he would surely chase after them.

"Cuz, I know that Percy's team is all messed up from that Gym Battle." Cain pushed Percival towards the door. While he remained facing against Elias. "That's why you waited to act until now, right?"

"…" Elias couldn't deny Cain's accusations to be false. If Percival was at full strength, he'd be a more difficult opponent. It was true, after a Gym battle Percival would be at his weakest… Though this was definitely already figured in Radomus' plan.

"So, I'll fight you myself." Cain declared. "Percival surpassed me a long time ago, so even if I do lose, it doesn't matter." Cain turned his head, giving Percival a smile. "So, you go on, Percy. I'll hold him up while you get out of here. Rescuing the girls is up to you now, 'kay?"

"…" Percival would have loved nothing more to shout that he wouldn't leave Cain. But as it stood with Percival's weakened team… he'd only be a burden. Reluctantly turning his back to Cain. Percival shouted as he ran for the exit. "You better not die on me!"

"I'll try not to!" Cain shouted back, his smile fading as he looked at Elias. A bit of worry in Cain's expression, but majorly held by a look that would be normally held by a Gym Leader.

"How noble a sacrifice." Elias applauded Cain's foolishness. "You know who I am, don't you?"

"Yup, even the back-up leaders know who the Elite are." Cain glared at Elias. "I only resent that you have sided with these Meteor goons."

"Then you will understand there will be no "Sweet talk"." Elias spoke in a low voice. Raising a pokeball in his hand. "You will bow before the Lord."

Cutting away from the ensuing fight between, Elias and Cain. Percival is found outside, trying to make his way through the Hedge Maze. Several grunts were already there, most definitely searching for anyone who had escaped. Percival knew with how his team was, it was bad for him to be spotted. He needed to get out without getting spot—

"Hold it right there!" Percival jumped as someone called over to him. Barely registering the hushed tone to him. As the guy quickly walked over to him, Percival recognized it as Radomus.

"Radomus?!" Percival said surprised to see him.

"Was that convincing?" Radomus asked with an odd smile. "Regardless, it seems to have been enough to fool them."

"Why are you—" as Percival attempted to ask a question he was cut off.

"Didn't I say before: Choose the right hat for the right job?" Radomus questioned as he had said this several times before. However… "Of course, one might wonder just how I had such an outfit as this in the first place. It almost makes me look suspicious." Radomus continued with a sportive smile. Though it quickly faded as Radomus noticed the shuffling of the bushes, making clear that grunts were getting close to their location. "Now quickly, follow me."

"…Fine." As much as Percival's distrust in Radomus risen, this was not the time to argue. No matter how much either of us wanted to…

Radomus led Percival through the maze, making so that the two were increasingly distancing themselves from Team Meteor and the Castle. Where finally Radomus led the two a seemingly dead end. "Here we are."

"…" Percival was certainly smart… but whatever Radomus had planned. Percival barely understood the thought process of Radomus.

Radomus pulled away bit of the bush to reveal a hole in the wall. An escape route if you would. Radomus then turned to Percival. "I cannot stay long. But allow me to leave you with this: Firstly, as you must have heard, they have captured Luna. And unfortunately, I had not the foresight to teach Luna to Teleport as well. Though if I could…"

"…" Percival couldn't help but be suspicious. Though he clearly saw that Radomus was worried for her, Lucille, and possibly Cain as well. It seems Radomus wasn't going to let go of whatever plan he had.

"More importantly, Elias may portray himself as a holy man, but his true nature has been made clear." Radomus continued. Rather it was something Percival agreed with. There's a difference between religious belief, and blindly following. "However, Team Meteor is not the only shady dealing he has. I have a hunch on where Luna will be taken, but for reasons of my own, I must make myself scarce. I ask you follow it in my stead."

"I had a feeling you would say something like that…" Percival groaned. Going into enemy territory alone. Wasn't something Percival liked.

"I suspect she will be somewhere around 7th Street in Reborn City." Radomus explained, his eyes ever so slightly glancing to the end of the maze's corridor. "If you can't find that place, I suggest you contact someone who's a bit more familiar with the city's back-alley dealings."

"…" Percival stared stunned. First, he heard Radomus say that it was up to Percival to save his friends. Next Radomus told Percival to work with a criminal. I know of one person who fits that perspective… but how willing he'd be… was entirely different matter. Maybe with the trouble that Lucille is… No, it is too early to tell.

"Percival, as I've said before. Not all is black and white, or dark and light." Radomus smiled, "Wrong is sometimes right. In is often out. And sometimes up may be the only way down. All you need to do is read between the lines—or rather, walk between them. Adieu. Until we meet again." Radomus said as he teleported away.

Leaving Percival on his own… not particularly sure on where to start.

Time: 23:10

Location: Lapis Ward

It had been nearly three hours since the attack on Vanhanen Castle. Percival though he didn't know where to start. With Radomus' saying to work with a criminal… Percival's only idea was to tail any Meteors that seemed to be heading back to the city. While stealth wasn't one of Percival's proficiencies, he seemed to have tailed the grunts fairly well. Though he failed to notice how he was being tailed as well… Following the grunts to a back-alley entrance of Lapis Ward. He hid around the corner as he watched the Grunts enter a building.

Now what was Percival's plan? Follow them inside, to only be shown it was a Meteor base, and be immediately outnumbered? Stay outside wait for them to return? No… that would too long. It would have to be the former. Even with the risks, it would prove to be far more resourceful. Percival deigned necessary walking toward the building, and opened the door.

"?" Percival was rather confused as he opened the door. It was a rather plain building, kept rather well. A few potted plants scattered through the room, a nice fresh carpet, a counter with a door for the receptionist with another door leading to an elevator. Percival was confused was this a front? He didn't know, so he walked towards the Receptionist.

The receptionist taking notice of the boy. Looked at him and sighed. "Hello. Admittance to these apartments is for tenants only. I'm afraid you'll have to leave."

"…" With how quickly the woman said that, Percival felt it was suspicious. So, he tried to bluff. "I'm sorry, but I believe your mistaken. I am a tenant here."

"…" The receptionist wasn't rather impressed with Percival's attempt to lie. "Right… and I'm the League's Champion. Now please run along now. I don't like dealing with kids."

"…" Percival bit his lip, frustrated… Maybe he made a mistake for where the Grunts were headed. And the woman he was talking to seemed rather innocent… rude, but innocent. No way he could just force his way through… Percival sighed, and walked out of the building… as he stood outside in the alley, he muttered to himself. "What am I going to do now?"

"Hmph." Out of nowhere, Percival suddenly felt someone's finger being pressed into his cheek. Followed by the words of. "Corey was right. You really are an alley cat parading around as a tiger."

"!" Percival froze as he recognized the voice. The person who said that, wasn't an ally… but perhaps with the right motive… he might not be an enemy for the time being at least.

"I'll admit, you were pretty skillful by not being spotted by those two." This person was none other than Nero Umbrasyl. A member of Team Meteor. But also, the twin brother of Lucille… Seeing as Percival was still silently staring at him. "What's a matter Shiro? Cat got your tongue?"

"H-how… How long since have you—" Percival was about to ask him. How long has he been following him, but was cut off?

"Long enough to know your about as perceptive as a sleeping Snorlax." Nero mocked. He had been following Percival for quite a while… it is rather questioning why he was contacting him now.

"Why—" Nero didn't even allow Percival to talk.

"To capture you, Shiro. Why else would I be here?" Nero stated simply…

"Stop calling me that. My name isn't Percival Whitehall anymore. It's—" Percival was cut off again.

"Wisteria. Which I believe is a white flower, so Shiro still stands. Besides… I believe legally, Whitehall still is your last name." Nero remark was true… Percival had yet to go through the channels of changing his last name. "but then again… When have I ever done anything legal?"

"…" Percival found Nero's behavior odd… Past encounters he's had with him. Nero was always willing to fight… but why not now? Nero could have easily attacked Percival while he didn't know, but he didn't. Nero surely by no means had decent morals, he's even said it himself how all's fair in love and war. Yet… why was Nero just talking to him? Why hasn't he made a move against Percival yet. Could it be… "You don't want Lucille to get hurt, do you?"

"…" Nero's expression quickly became cold at Percival's statement. Though Percival wasn't wrong… Nero couldn't do anything about the situation. "I don't think that's any of your concern."

"I Rather disagree." Percival insisted. "She's my friend, your sister, and has been kidnapped by your Team."

"Yeah, yeah, cry me a river." Nero scoffed. "You gonna allow yourself to be captured or what?"

"You know I won't do that." Percival responded, determination in his eyes.

"*sigh… This is getting troublesome. *" Nero muttered, Percival barely registering that.

"(With the right bait… Nero could be willing to help you.)" Percival thought… Realizing, though Nero was rather dirty. He might be convinced through other means. "How about a battle? Loser does what the Winner wants."

"heh, with your track record?" Nero scoffed at Percival's suggestion.

"I've only lost to you once." Percival responded, it was his first encounter with Nero… though by no means was Percival unprepared, and Percival knew this. But his only idea to get Nero on his side, was this. And if Percival won, it could easily spell for helping Nero come over to their side.

"…" Nero had a conflicted look as he thought… but ultimately deciding. A devilish smile on his face, and sticking out his hand toward Percival. "Sure, why not?"