Fabrice's group made record time arriving in the Echo Bell Kingdom, one day ahead of schedule. Fabrice thanked the farmer who let them hitchhike and told him they can walk the rest of the way. The five-man group continued down the dirt path with the capital in sight.

Melissa gawked at the streams and rivers leading into the capital, as well as the architecture she could make out over the capital's walls. "This is my first time ever venturing to the capital," she said.

Klaus smirked. "You really were a sheltered princess."

Melissa pouted. "Oh hush."

Fabrice smiled. "It really is a lovely kingdom. Rich history and color. We will be stationed here for about two weeks before heading back to Fort Lucus. I think Jason has something special planned for everyone once the special assignments are over."

Gold chuckled. "Perhaps a raid on the Verde Kingdom to settle the new recruits in."

Jewel giggled. "Or maybe he'll mix things up and have us raid one of the wealthier parts of the Wick Kingdom."

"Either way—"

"That means—"

"More shiny objects for our collection!" the twins exclaimed.

Melissa once again clutched the locket hidden under her uniform and stepped closer to Klaus. "I feel like they're going to steal a shiny spoon for their assignment," she grumbled. Klaus laughed behind his hand.

Fabrice turned around and faced them as he walked backwards. "Now, before we go into the capital, we need to set up some ground rules first. It's imperative you keep your cloaks and light tunics over your uniforms at all times. We Foresters make a point to wear our uniforms with pride no matter where we go, but we also can't draw attention to ourselves. Since I'm one of the more recognizable Foresters, I can't supervise you all directly. I'm trusting you to keep your heads low and not draw unnecessary attention to yourselves."

Melissa nodded. "Of course, sir. But where will you be?"

"When we get close to the capital's perimeter, I'll be sticking close to our camp."

"How will we hide our camp out here? There's hardly any trees to use for cover," Klaus pointed out.

Fabrice smiled. "Along with training under Shingo, I actually did some training under Sidney and learned a lot about terraforming."

"You were trained by a Nature Spirit?" Melissa gasped.

Fabrice rubbed the back of his head. "Just a little. I don't like bragging about it. Besides, it's nothing compared to you training with Jason. But anyway, I'll dig out the land and camouflage the entrance so we can have a nice bit of shelter to use during our time here. When I'm not at camp, I'll be monitoring the capital to keep an eye on all of you."

"And you're positive we don't have reason to worry about Grim Deadlock?" Klaus asked, a hint of nervousness in his tone.

"I'm sure. He's only active at night, and he won't attack you as long as you don't do anything to attract his ire. It'd be best if none of you stay out too late. Once the sun sets, return to camp."

Melissa nodded. "Okay. I rather not face a murderous bounty hunter. I can barely handle a regular one."

Fabrice smiled. "Hey, like I said, I'll do everything I can to protect you all. I have plenty of experience dealing with hostile threats."

"That does make me feel better." Melissa's ears started twitching. "Hmm?" She unfurled one and picked up on the distinct sound of galloping. She looked over her shoulder and saw a Rapidash-pulled carriage coming down the road with two knights riding alongside it on horseback. "Someone is coming."

"Everyone, side of the road," Fabrice ordered, pulling them to the side. The coachman tipped his hat to them as the carriage passed by.

Melissa squinted at the carriage. "Wait, that carriage looks kind of familiar. I have seen it before…" She gasped. "Wait, that is the Visconti royal carriage!"

"The royal family, huh?" the twins awed with devious grins.

"Ah, that's right," Fabrice said. "Before we left, I did overhear from Petra that the Visconti and Tetrarch families were visiting the Senbo Kingdom. Probably to establish an alliance."

Melissa tugged her hood over her face. "I hope they did not see my face."

Klaus shrugged. "They were moving too fast to get a good look at you. I doubt they saw anything."

"True." She sighed and pulled the hood over her eyes. "We will just keep it that way."

Azelia pressed her face against the window as the kingdom walls came into view. "Yay! We're almost home!"

Evangelina pulled Azelia back into her seat. "Could you not smudge the windows, please?"

King Visconti chortled with delight. "Oh, lighten up, Evangelina. We have been on the road for a while. I am sure you are dying to stretch your limbs."

Evangelina sighed and fell back into her seat. "I could use a hot bath, I admit."

Asterio huffed. "Anything to get away from the company. Maybe I will see if Monica is in the archives."

Queen Visconti turned to her husband. "Oh dear, that reminds me. King Penworth sent one of his knights to do investigative work here, yes?"

He nodded. "Ah yes, I almost forgot about that. Well, I will be sure to greet the young man when we arrive. I do hope our resources were enough to help his investigation. I cannot remember what the investigation was for, but it must be something important." He sighed. "I can only imagine the stress King Penworth has been going through. Eight months, and still no sign of Princess Penworth. Oh, the poor dear must be worried sick."

"Or dead," Evangelina mumbled.

"Eva!" Azelia gasped.

Evangelina shrugged. "What? I am being realistic here. Best case scenario, she was sold off to become a slave. I bet she fetched a fair price, though I do not recall the Foresters dealing in slave trade."

Asterio huffed. "Could you keep your dark thoughts to yourself?"

"Whatever you say, oh-mighty Prince of Darkness~!" Evangelina sang. Asterio rolled his eyes and turned away from her.

The carriage entered the capital and carried them all the way to their castle, where their fateful advisor, Guido, and a handful of servants awaited them at the fence. The carriage stopped, and the coachman hopped off to let the royals out.

Guido bowed his large stony body to them. "Welcome back, Your Majesties and Highnesses. Was the trip to your liking?"

King Visconti threw his head back and chortled. "Oh, it was fantastic, Guido! That King Talbot, let me tell you! A genius, he is. There is so much to prepare the Echo Bell Kingdom's future for. We have lots to discuss." He clapped and ordered, "Send for the best architects and manual workers available and have them arrive to my castle in two hours. They will surely die with joy at the news of this project."

Guido nodded. "It shall be done, Your Majesty."

Queen Visconti stepped forward. "I do hope Jessica and Giselle have not been too much trouble while we were gone."

Guido sighed. "Still up to their old tricks, but they haven't caused me too much trouble. Though, they have turned their sights on the Verde knight that arrived."

Queen Visconti sighed. "The poor dear. Be sure to compensate for any trouble they caused."

"As you wish, Your Majesty."

"Where is the young knight, anyway?" King Visconti asked. "I wish to speak with him myself."

"She."

"Hmm?"

"Luna Freia. She is female."

"Huh. I do always forget the Verde Kingdom trained a female knight. What a novel concept. Well, where is she then?"

"Due to the distractions posed by your daughters, she went into town with Ms. Gatti."

Asterio frowned. "Monica's not in the archives?" Guido shook his head. "Oh. I see. When do you suppose they will be back?"

"They went out for lunch, so I imagine soon."

Asterio sighed. "Very well." He yawned and floated past the golem. "I am off to my chambers. Do not bother waking me for dinner." The servants opened the doors and bowed as he passed them.

Evangelina stretched and followed after. "I suppose I should see if Jessica needs my help with anything. Coming, Azelia?"

"Absolutely!" The Frillish sisters floated into the castle. Their knights, Angelo and Romano, followed after them.

Guido turned and headed inside, too. "I shall summon the herald to call upon your laborers, Your Majesty. Will that be all?"

"It should be. Thank you very much, Guido."

"Anything for you, sir."

The king and queen were the last to enter, linked arm to arm. The queen rested her head against the Jellicent and said, "I am personally looking forward to the Festival della Festa coming up soon. Perhaps we can sneak off and sample the food?"

The king laughed. "All you would have to do is clap and they would bring the food to you."

"Oh, but so many choices at once? I prefer to go at my own pace."

"Very well, my dear. I will see what I can do."

The Gourgeist smiled and pecked her husband's cheek. "Thank you kindly, dear."

Once they reached near the capital wall, Fabrice got started on the camp. Using an innovative combination of Dig and Dive, he was able to deform the ground into a suitable space with plenty of room to lounge about. Although, there was one immediate problem. Unlike Sid, who could harden any earth she deformed, they were left with a muddied and damp pit.

Fabrice hopped back onto the surface and wiped his hands off. "Yeah, not the cleanest base, but it'll dry after a while."

Melissa forced a grin. "Great."

"Anyway, that gives you four plenty of time to explore the city. We just got here, so feel free to take in the sights before you get started on heist planning." Fabrice reached into his pockets and tossed them each a sack of coins. "A little something for food. I want you all back here before sundown, but you're welcome to try the dining establishments around here. Plenty of great food to entice yourself with."

Klaus checked inside his sack, then realized, "Oh yeah, that reminds me. Isn't there supposed to be some potluck festival coming up soon?"

Fabrice rubbed his chin for a moment, then smiled. "Oh yes, the Festival della Festa. I believe that will be hosted on the 21st Winter Moon."

"So, next Monday, nine days from now," Melissa surmised. "I think Princess Azelia told me about that some time ago. I believe it is a three-day long festival celebrating the coming of winter. I would be interested to learn more about it."

Klaus smirked. "Forget learning, I'm participating. Maybe they'll have some good chili here."

Melissa giggled. "Perhaps. I am more interested in their selection of desserts."

Fabrice chuckled. "You two can fantasize about food later. Get going while the day's still young—"

"Come, Sister!" Fabrice jumped out of the way as the twins raced past him. "Time to rob this great city blind of all its treasures!"

"Right behind you, Brother!" The cackling pair fled into the capital.

Fabrice slouched forward and groaned. "I foresee a bad omen if those two actually become Greenwoods." He sighed, then smiled at the remaining pair. "Best be off, you two."

"Thank you, Fabrice!" Melissa and Klaus ran ahead into the capital.

"You do not suppose the twins will get us kicked out of the capital, right?" Melissa asked as they passed through the main gate.

Klaus rolled his eyes. "Getting kicked out would be a blessing. I'd be more concerned with the mob running us out."

"Heh, true." Melissa looked all around at the buildings in awe, spinning on her foot. "I cannot believe I am actually here. Never before did I dream to actually visit the grand capital of the Echo Bell Kingdom. It is even more beautiful than described to me."

Klaus shrugged. "It's alright, I guess. Kind of loses its charm the third or fifth time you see it."

"You have been to the capital before?"

"I guess I never told you much about my unfortunate childhood aside from being the walking plague factory. How about we grab some lunch and I'll fill you in on everything I know about the capital?"

Melissa grinned. "Sounds perfect."

"Heh."

"What?"

Klaus shook his head. "Kind of strange. You recoiled from me the same way you would to mud when we first started talking. Not so much now, though. You're a lot less uptight than I thought." He walked ahead of her.

Melissa blinked, then hid her blush. "Oh, thank you, Kla—" Her eyes widened. "Uptight?! Hold on a minute, mister!" She quickened her pace and chased after him.

Now left to their own devices, Gold and Jewel scaled the walls of the Echo Bell's buildings and took to a vantage point above the streets. Jewel peered over the edge, cupping her hands around her eyes, and spied on the passing Pokémon while Gold fiddled with their bags and equipment.

"So many potential targets, dear brother," Jewel said. "Do you suppose it will be gold, jewels, or something equally shiny?"

Gold snickered. "Hard to say, dear sister, but I do fancy some coins." He pulled out the coin sacks given to them and played with the coins inside. "So shiny~."

"I personally look forward to this challenge. Imagine for a moment, us becoming Greenwoods allowed to carry out missions on a whim. We would be allowed to scour all of Virdis at our own expense and find the greatest riches of all time. A shame we are only here for this so-called research trip."

Gold groaned. "Indeed. We could easily steal the greatest treasures of the Echo Bell Kingdom right now. And I dare not think about the test requirements. Why should we have to lead a team of our own? We are the only team we need."

"The Dubious Duo!"

"The Cunning Cats!"

"The Sticky-Fingered Siblings!"

"The Pilfering Pair!"

"The Thievery Twins!" they exclaimed, high-fiving each other.

Jewel resumed peering down at the streets. "Perhaps we can make busy work for our team. They get their credit, and we don't have to worry about being slowed down as we carry out our master heist."

"What shall we steal? What is out of our reach?" Gold pondered.

"Would it not be impressive to steal a whole house?"

"Pilfer their precious property and priceless possessions?"

"More so snatching their sublime shelter utilizing subtle subterfuge."

"Dear sister, you meant literally steal a house?"

"What do you say, dear brother?"

"Outlandish and absurd!" Gold grinned. "It's the perfect crime for a pair like us! The ultimate heist committed by the twin terrors of tomorrow!"

"Bragging rights will be in our hands." Jewel stroked her chin. "Although, that raises a question. How does one steal a house?"

Gold sat down and crossed his arms. "We…did not think this brilliant plan through." He squinted in thought. "Do you suppose we received any new recruits who could lift a house?"

"Even if, there's the matter of actually absconding with a house without being caught." Jewel tapped her chin. "Do you suppose this idea is too outlandish?"

"I like it too much not to consider it. We just need to pick our target carefully."

"Indeed, you are right." Jewel looked down at the street and grinned. "Speaking of targets, do you spy what I spy?"

Gold leaned over the edge and grinned, spotting a wealthy Jynx sashaying down the street. Their eyes lit up at the sparkly, black wool trapper hat adorned on her head. Unnecessary for an Ice-Type, but stylish and attractive to two pairs of greedy eyes. The outer layer was dark blue while the interior was lined with the wool that caught their gaze.

"Wool that sparkles? How strange," Gold commented.

"Strange, and uncommon. Someone of her wealth paid lots for that hat," Jewel surmised. "The wool of a Wooloo, born with the rare shiny trait. Many Wooloo look to get sheared for the hotter moons, but she must've personally reached out to have a shiny Wooloo donate that wool for her precious hat."

"Shall we proceed then?"

"Who shall make the daring catch?"

Gold bowed to her. "I insist, you may have this one, Sister. You are the one who spotted it."

Jewel bowed back. "Thank you, Brother. I will be sure to let you have the next catch."

Gold pulled some rope from his bag and tied it around Jewel's waist. After giving it a good pull and making sure the knot was tight, Gold signaled her to wait on his mark. Jewel crouched over the edge and sharpened her gaze on her prey. Her eyes twinkled with delight, entranced by the sparkling hat. It must be hers, no matter what. She quickly scanned the street and determined how to steal the hat unnoticed.

Gold reached into his pocket and pulled out a small pebble. He juggled it a few times in hand, then threw it right into the Jynx's path.

It skipped off the street with a loud clatter, startling the Jynx to stop. "Oh my!"

Jewel leaped off the building and swung through the street. She reached out and snatched banner off a stall while the owner wasn't paying attention. She flew over the Jynx, who was still distracted by the shock, and folded the banner into the shape of a turban.

Trick.

She snapped her fingers as she swung by one last time, causing the banner turban and the trapper hat to swap places seamlessly. Gold gripped the rope and hoisted Jewel toward the building, where she scaled the walls back up to him. Not a single soul noticed her.

The Jynx finally calmed down and looked around in a huff. "Kids these days with their pranks. No class." She adjusted her hat, too ruffled to notice the change, and carried on ahead. She didn't notice the odd stares she was getting, seeing a light blue sheet of cloth wrapped around her head with obscured red letters. They kept their heads down and went about their business.

Gold sat down and grinned. "A fine steal. Are you satisfied, Sister?"

"So shiny~," Jewel purred, burying her head into the wool.

Gold resisted his base urges to snatch it for himself and let his sister enjoy the hat. "Perhaps we can steal a shiny jacket next to complete the set."

Melissa and Klaus found a shop to eat out at and helped themselves to some warming soup for the cold weather. Melissa sipped hers with a spoon, but watched in amusement as Klaus drank straight from the bowl, not bothered by the weird and disgusted stares he was getting.

Melissa laughed quietly. "You know, it is impolite to slurp your soup. And a spoon wouldn't hurt either."

Klaus set his bowl down and sighed happily. "Hey, when you live like me with on-and-off congestion, you got to eat your soup while it's still hot."

"Must be miserable being constantly sick."

Klaus shrugged. "Eh, when you lived with it your entire life, it's just routine. Frankly, people are just surprised I haven't died yet. Most kids like me wouldn't last long living like this, but I'm the lucky one who just feels mildly inconvenienced. Though, I have ways of easing the pain, though it's quite embarrassing."

"What?"

Klaus wiggled his prehensile hair. "I learned growing up that I can use Leech Life to temporarily clear my system. It's those blessed moments where I don't feel aches or cold. So, it makes me quite useful in battle when I can just inconvenience the enemy, but there are somedays I just need a quick fix. Do you know how awkward it is to ask a teammate if I can stab them with my hair and take a little energy?"

Melissa grinned awkwardly. "Cannot say, but it certainly sounds awkward."

"Our superiors are understanding, thankfully. The Nature Spirits, and even Jason, have offered a quick boost for me. That's actually how I finally passed my exam. I was just too embarrassed to ask. Gave me just enough energy to pass my tests."

"You really were determined to become a Forester. You must have had a rough childhood."

Klaus traced his finger around his bowl. "Well, not exactly. Sure, being sick was rough, but my life was pretty secure, if not mundane."

"I thought you said you were born during a blight. I would figure living in an area like that—"

"See, I never mentioned a few things. You know we Foresters don't go around telling each other about our troubles. We've seen it all, we've lived it all. Best not to tread on old wounds. Personally speaking, I just don't want to brag I had it easier. My parents died when I was young, so I was a loner orphan. And yet, somehow, my luck continued to surprise me. In one of the towns in Echo Bell, I was rooting through the trash for food when a nobleman found me.

"Normally, I expected the disgusted glares and junk, but he just stared at me, studying me. Naturally, my next move was to skedaddle before I found out if this man was a creep or not. Then he spoke. I never forgot what he first said to me, and it stuck with me ever since. 'Young man, you have a lucky spirit on your shoulder, just like me.' I then questioned if he was cuckoo, though I determined in that moment I wasn't in any danger.

"Next thing I know, I'm told to follow him. He brought me to his house and, a few days of being fed and acquiring a new wardrobe, he officially adopted me."

Melissa sputtered into her soup with a gasp. "W-W-Wait! You are a noble?!"

"By blood, no. According to a piece of paper, yes."

"I…I did not think there were any nobles in the Foresters," she whispered as quietly as she could while containing her shock. "Sure, notable merchant families, but not an actual noble."

Klaus shrugged. "And now you see why I wouldn't brag about that. I think Jet would've blown his top if he knew I was raised in a noble house." He snickered. "Only Jason and Percival know the details."

"But, if you are here with us, does that mean you and your—"

Klaus raised his hand. "I'll stop you right there. I didn't join because of problems back home. Actually, I got along well with the old bastard. Sure, he was too exuberant to be around for too long, but he treated me like his own flesh and blood. He manages all the markets back home, so I have some experience there. I'm not too fond of most other nobles, though. Even as the adopted son of a respected nobleman, the mockery and outcries never really stopped. It did give me a new perspective on how entitled kids my age could get. Kind of sad, really."

Melissa tilted her head. "Who is your father? And why would you rebel against him?"

Klaus smirked. "I can't give away all my secrets. It ruins the fun."

Melissa pouted. "Jerk." She sighed. "Okay, but surely you could answer this."

"Shoot."

"Where does your adoptive father think you are right now?"

Klaus leaned back and tapped his chin. "Right now? Studying abroad in Hoenn."

"E-E-Excuse me?"

Klaus snickered. "I send letters telling him how I'm doing. I've read enough books on the school he sent me to for a convincing alibi. I think I've pulled off a pretty decent trick these last two years. I do occasionally visit him when I'm on break."

"But what if the school needs to contact him—"

"Jason hired a forger for me. Fake letters for the old man and, as far as that school knows, I dropped out."

Melissa blinked in bewilderment, then laughed nervously. "You live quite the life, Klaus."

"That's how I roll." Klaus sighed and leaned back in his chair. "Speaking of, have you considered what you want to do for the test yet?"

"No, nothing. Still weighing in my options. You?"

"Same boat." Klaus rocked his chair back and sighed. "It has to be something worth our time, too. What do you suppose is big and bold enough to make for a promising and memorable crime?"

"I imagine steal the most expensive thing in the capital?" Melissa guessed.

"Perhaps, but why not make a big show about it? We're here to introduce ourselves as the next big thing. You have to do something to get their attention. A wanted poster may seem like a death sentence to us, but it's also a portrait commemorating our infamy. We could be immortalized in the history books by our actions."

"You make it sound so grand, far above anything I could pull off," Melissa mumbled.

Klaus smirked. "It's a matter of finding the right path for the heist and your confidence. Being a leader is a heavy burden. If you could pull off a daring heist with your group, you've made your mark as a thief. This is a lot more than just stealing a tangible item. Even an old jug would suffice."

Melissa folded her arms. "How so?"

"The physical quality of the item is one thing, but the symbolic meaning it holds on whoever you steal it from? Now that would shake a kingdom to its core."

Melissa blinked, then looked down at her soup as the wheels turned in her head. "Shake the kingdom to its core, huh?"

Unbeknownst to the two thieves, and vice versa, Luna Freia of the Verde Kingdom was dining at the very same shop a few tables away with her back facing them. They needed the escape from the castle, having to deal with the torment posed by the two royal terrors. Luna now understood the purpose of the Alcremie archivist's retreat into the dark dwellings of the castle.

She rubbed her temples while listening to Monica slurp her soup. Luna opened one eye and asked, "Could you please not do that?"

Monica set her spoon down. "You look like a mess."

"And you're not? We went until five in the morning reorganizing the archives. How are you not as worn out as me?"

Monica shrugged. "I'm a light sleeper."

"That has nothing to…oh, never mind." Luna grabbed her chesto coffee and chugged it back.

"You really shouldn't be drinking that much coffee, Moon Lady," Monica pointed out.

"Oh hush." Luna wiped her lips, then slammed her face into the table. "I'm still not any closer toward finding Sir Gerard. I wish I could just hunt him down, but I don't know if he's in the capital or some other part of the kingdom. That could take me months."

"Have you considered spreading the word to get his attention?" Monica asked.

"I need to keep this information private. If anyone found out I was looking for a long retired knight all the way out here, questions would be raised."

"That seems a tad paranoid, and that's coming from me."

Luna sighed. "Trust me, that's all I've been feeling these days." She glared into her soup. "Monica, do you know anything about a Crownless King?"

Monica crossed her arms and hummed. "Crownless King? Nope, doesn't ring a bell."

"I figured."

"Mind filling me in?"

Luna raised her head. "It's some group of…well, it's hard to tell exactly what they are. Extremists? Terrorists? All I know is that they may oppose the ten kingdoms. Problem is, I don't know anything about them, and my only lead isn't exactly helpful."

"And you're searching for Sir Gerard because he knows something?"

"Supposedly. He witnessed them during an attempted invasion on the Great Ruins. Many years later, he retired in the Echo Bell Kingdom. What I want to know is why the files on the invasion were hidden away. It's almost like someone's trying to hide the truth."

"Huh." Monica bit the inside of her cheek and stirred it over. "That is strange. Any suspects?"

Luna looked off to the side. How does one begin to explain they suspect treachery from their own king? After all, King Penworth would be the only other person who could access the royal archives. She had to wait until she found Sir Gerard. Perhaps he could shed some light on Roscoe Fletcher.

"Uh, nothing yet," Luna lied. She quickly chugged back her soup bowl and stood up. "Shall we expand our search to the local archives? Perhaps Sir Gerard left behind a mark of his time in the capital, such as community service. Or perhaps he takes interest in other old man recreational activities found throughout the city."

Monica giggled. "If he intended to retire here, there's plenty of entertainment to behold, especially at night~."

Luna groaned. "I do hope you mean a game of cards and not the local brothel."

"Well, the capital streets aren't exactly friendly at night." Monica stood up and placed some money on the table, then spotted a Jynx walking by with the most peculiar turban. "Huh. Get a load of that."

Luna glanced at the passing Jynx and raised her brow. "I will never understand fashion."

"Aha! A worthy place to begin my beautiful search! Returning to my roots!"

Galivanting through the streets and drawing as much attention to himself as possible was the masked Weavile, Frediano. With his blindingly white suit, flowing red cape, and glimmering golden mask, he pranced down the cobblestone streets of the capital, a skip in his step and a song in his heart, much to the chagrin of passersby.

He hopped onto a bridge sitting over one of the many canals and gazed upon the shimmering water. "I look forward to winning this contest of skill and beauty. With my grand and ambitious talents, I shall claim the mightiest Forester as my prisoner. And with that deed in my possession, I shall increase my notoriety and become known all over Virdis as the most beautiful and amazing bounty hunter of all time!"

No one paid him mind and continued with their day. He remained ignorant to their snickers, lost in the clouds of his own mind. He hopped off the bridge and marched along.

"How can a Forester refuse to attack the capital of this beautiful city? With the Festival della Festa soon to come, no thief shall resist the alure of so much food waiting to be snatched by their evil hands. That is when I, the Great Frediano, will swoop in and save the festival! I shall be praised as a hero to Pokémon and fine cuisine!" He blew a kiss and laughed. "The deed shall be mine!"

"Heh. You all really want that deed, don't you?"

Frediano spun around, then looked up to the tall, imposing figure of a familiar Machamp with his form fitting pants and fur vest. He held a large barrel mug in one hand and an actual barrel on his left shoulder. His two free hands held his hips as he looked down at the Weavile in amusement.

Frediano gasped and recoiled. "Rush Force Armant! Were you following me?"

"Such a strong accusation. I've been here since yesterday." Armant took a swig of his drink. "I'm actually here for the festival coming up next week. Thought I'd get a head start and scout out what foods to look forward to."

Frediano straightened himself and pointed at the muscular Pokémon. "Do not get in my way, giant! I shall be the one to win this bet. With my stylish charms and beautiful techniques, I will captivate my enemy with a performance that will leave them on ice!"

Armant laughed, a wholehearted laugh that held no malice or sarcasm. "Yeah, you do you, bub." He took another sip from his mug, then continued ahead.

Frediano stood frozen in place, staring vacantly into the distance, before chasing the Machamp down. "Ah, I see what you're doing! You're trying to trick me."

"Enlighten me," Armant said as he looked around at the buildings.

"Acting so casual with one of your rivals, pretending the deed doesn't interest you. Very clever, but I will not fall for your games! You're clearly a mastermind underneath that meaty physique of yours!"

Armant boomed with laughter. "Is that what you think?"

"Ha!" Frediano puffed his chest out. "You can't fool the Great Frediano! I am a skilled, beautiful actor who wows the crowd with my range of inflections and emotions, able to captivate the hearts of many with my outstanding performances! I know a façade when I see one. Though you are a Machamp, you're clearly a genius on par with the legends spoken of the mighty Alakazam!"

"Nope," Armant shot down. "What you see is what you get."

"You're committed to your role. I respect that!" Frediano twirled around Armant, his cape fluttering majestically behind him. "You, too, sensed the arrival of a Forester. You were drawn to the capital knowing they will strike here."

Armant sighed. "Look bub, I only accepted the bet because I need the money. If I win, I'm selling the land to cover my debts. Bar tabs, brothel tabs, loans, damages I accidentally caused; I'm basically dirt poor."

"I love this character you've crafted!" Frediano continued. "A vagrant bounty hunter who is driven by money and women!" He blew a kiss. "Beautiful! I love it!"

Armant raised his brow. "Were you dropped on your head when you were born?"

"I warn you, Rush Force Armant, I intend to hunt down the Foresters lurking in this city and claim the deed for myself! I will search day and night without rest."

"That's nice," Armant dismissed. "I think I'll just wait until something happens. You know any good bars around here? Maybe I can make some bets of my own and get a free drink."

"Your dedication to this role continues to astound me!"

"Bub, we met in a tavern. It's not that weird—"

"I must go!" Frediano interrupted, flicking his cape. "May the best man win in this race! I shall leave all who face me speechless! (Until we meet again, my rival!)" Frediano fled through the streets and vanished among the crowd, only seen by the ostentatious glow of his clothes.

Armant blinked slowly, then sighed. "You do you, bub." He readjusted the barrel on his shoulder and took a different route. "Now, where to find a decent pub around here…"