The Hidden Hands belong to me
The Kyrus Region, Jerome, Damien, Alexis and Daniel belong to XfangheartX
Pokemon belongs to Nintendo
Following the little escapade, Johan and Magnus along with Team Monkeybone lead the Rising Sun members through a safe path in the forest towards Mount Regi.
"So your real base is inside a mountain?" Alexis asked as the group reached the base of the towering mass. "But I don't see an entrance."
"That's because you don't have the key." Johan grinned as he raised his glowing hand and shot a beam of energy at the face of the mountain causing a hole to swirl into view.
"Whoa!" Alexis and Daniel both stared in awe.
"And only we have the means of learning it." Magnus added before the group made their way inside.
"And no one else has been able to get inside?" Damien questioned.
"If any intruder tries to dig their way in they end up getting scared off by all the ghost types we have living in these tunnels." Johan explained before they entered the vast cave, the Rising Sun members astonished by all the buildings that had been set up but even more so by the gargantuan Regigigas statue that stood at the back of the cave.
"Holy bluk berries! Where did you get a statue like that?!" Alexis gawked at the titanic sculpture.
"Oh you'll get the answer soon enough." Magnus smiled. "But before we get to our story there's a few more old friends your Father and Damien need to see. Right this way." after a few minutes of walking the group arrived at the initiation grounds where they found the members of Johan and Magnus' team. Jerome gasped when he saw them
"Athena, Gozer, Tundra, Sanae and Cutter." he said to the Kecleon, Gengar, Abomasnow, Gardevoir and Ninjask.
"We've been waiting for you, Jerome, Damien." spoke Athena with a smile.
"Been a long time, mate." Gozer grinned as he bumped fists with Jerome. "How are things back in Pyrus?"
"Just as you'd expect them to be. Lively." the Arcanine smiled.
"Damien!" Tundra roared as he hugged him tightly earning a strangled gasp from Damien feeling his bones crushed. "Look how you've grown! You look just like your Father, if he were yellow. HAHAHAHA!"
"It's...nice to see...you too...Tundra." Damien choked while Alexis and Daniel sniggered before they were approached by Sanae who knelt before them.
"You must be Alexis. You're just as beautiful as your Mother." the Gardevoir smiled petting her lovingly.
"Yeah I've been getting that a lot." Alexis chuckled.
"And you're Daniel. Alexis' closest friend."
"How did you know?" Daniel asked in surprise. "Can you read minds?"
"No, but I can see the future." Sanae answered.
"Y-You can do what?!" Alexis spluttered.
"Well I can see various outcomes of the future. For example I could've seen you drown in that bog from earlier or if Caesar was fully controlled by that Ninetales to name a few. The futures I see vary in possibility and the likeliest was Johan and Magnus arriving in time to save you."
"Amazing. But, who are you Pokemon? Were you in the Rising Sun too?" said Daniel.
"Yes, we are your Uncle's Elite squad." Cutter buzzed.
"GYYAAAAAAAAAAUUUGHH GIANT BUG!" Daniel screamed when he saw the big cicada and hid behind Sanae.
"What's wrong with him?" Cutter snorted feeling rather offended.
"Sorry, Danny has quite the insectophobia." Alexis explained. "He doesn't mean any offense, he's just always been scared of bugs since he was little."
"Hmph." Cutter huffed still a little peeved. "Well I suppose I can forgive him for that. But you ought to know we're not all out to wrap you up in a web and suck out your brain, kid!"
"I know, sorry Sir." Daniel apologised.
"Well this has certainly turned out to be quite the reunion." Tundra said.
"You can say that again." Gozer agreed as he sighed with nostalgia. "Cripes has it really been seventeen years?"
"And counting." Sanae confirmed.
"Well now that the gang's all back together, we can finally begin." Johan said taking a seat on the grass as Alexis bounded over to curl up beside him.
"Begin what, Cap'n?" Gozer questioned.
"We want to tell Jerome's children our history." Magnus said. "We thought you all would like be a part of it seeing as you were there."
"Well it's not like I have anyone to train today since everyone's partying at the new guild hall." Tundra said.
"Man you kids are in for quite a yarn." Cutter spoke to the young ones.
"Well then. I guess it began like many stories do; a long time ago." Johan began.
~~~Thirty Six Years Ago...~~~
Cynderstohn Village. It seems like any other day as the Pokemon go about their business. At least, that's how it seemed to be until three small Pokemon came racing down the dirt road through the village; a Growlithe, Elekid and Magby.
"I'm gonna beat you guys again! You need to work out that overgrown egg you call a torso, Joey!" the Growlithe laughed as he was out in front of the other two.
"Hey not all of us were lucky to be born with four legs, ya hot dog!" the Elekid snapped back.
"Honestly I don't know why we keep doing this." the Magby panted. "We're just gonna be exhausted when we get to the castle and that means we'll fall behind on our duties. It would be better if we raced from rather than to."
"Aw quit being such a spoilsport, Mag. It's not like we're running late or anything." the Growlithe said as he held up a watch. "We've got fifteen minutes see?"
"Jerry...YOUR WATCH ISN'T TICKING!"
"WHAT?! GAH WHAT TIME IS IT THEN?!"
"YOU NITWIT!" the three panicking Pokemon are none other than a twelve year old Jerome and two thirteen year olds Johan and Magnus who had only now realised they were running late for their chores at the castle of the Rising Sun.
"You said you got that piece of junk fixed on Saturday!" Johan shouted at Jerome.
"Hey! That 'piece of junk' was from my Uncle! And the watchmaker's was closed!"
"It doesn't matter!" Magnus broke them up. "Let's just get to the castle before we get in even more trouble." the three friends ran as fast as they could until they reached the grand castle of the Rising Sun. Upon arriving, they were greeted by a heavily armored Hariyama who didn't look too pleased to see them judging by his folded arms and narrowed eyes.
"Um, hehe, morning Sir Fisk." Jerome grinned.
"YOU'RE LATE AGAIN!" the fighting type thundered his breath alone nearly blowing the pipsqueaks away. "You were supposed to be here half an hour ago!"
"It was Jerry's fault, his watch was broken!" Johan pointed.
"YOU NARC!"
"I don't care who's at fault you're all just as late!" Fisk snapped. "You need to learn to be responsible in this Order even if you are just apprentices! If you ever want to be knights like me you need to step up your game!"
"Like we'd want to be big, loud and have first class bad breath." Johan muttered. KONK! The Elekid was struck on the head by the Hariyama's giant fist causing a huge bump to swell from between his prongs.
"Shut your mouth, Johan! For your tardiness you can turn around and walk right back the way you came! Go to the blacksmiths and pick up that cart of broadswords we requested. The walk should give you some time to think about what you've done. Do I make myself clear?!"
"Sir, yes Sir!" the three saluted.
"Good, then get on with it! And get that watch fixed, Jerome!" Fisk said before taking his leave as the trio turned on the spot and began to make the walk back to town.
"Word to the wise, Jerry. Next time you look at your watch, MAKE SURE IT'S TICKING!" Johan ranted at the Growlithe.
"Fine then you be time keeper from now on, plug head!" Jerome barked back.
"Both of you zip it! let's just get this over with!" Magnus interjected as they reached the village with the blacksmith in sight.
"Just how much longer are we gonna be doing chores like this?" Jerome asked. "Grand Master Marcus said he saw potential in us and yet we've been apprentice for almost a year now. What does it take to become a real knight?!"
"Well time for starters." Magnus began. "And besides look at us. We're no where near strong enough to fight in any battles yet."
"Hey I'm not itching to charge into war or anything." Jerome retorted. "I just want a chance to prove myself."
"We'll get our chance, Jer." Johan said putting his arm around the Growlithe. "Let's just get this errand done and then hopefully we'll get some training in the afternoon."
"Yeah, alright." Jerome muttered in agreement, but just as they were reaching the blacksmiths they heard what sounded like...sobbing?
"Huh? Who is that?" Johan asked as the three listened.
"It's coming from over there." Magnus pointed behind one of the other buildings. The boys followed the noise and peered behind the building to find a small Buneary curled up in a ball sniffling and hiccuping to herself as she wiped her eyes attempting to stop the tears. She looked to be no older than seven and was wearing a little green dress with a bow in her ears.
"Mama...Papa." she sniffed.
"Well now what's all this then?" Johan asked as the boys approached the little girl.
"Hello there, what's the matter?" Jerome asked as the Buneary looked up at them.
"...Lost." she said through her sobs.
"Oh there, there." Johan said petting her gently. "Don't worry I'm sure your parents are close by."
"N-No. I'm not lost." the Buneary said. "I've lost my Mama and Papa."
"You've lost your parents?" Magnus asked.
"Uh-huh. We were in the forest gathering herbs but when we were on our way home I looked back and suddenly they were gone. I got scared so I ran here to find help, but I'm from Hillingham so I don't know what to do!" she began to cry again but then she suddenly noticed the symbols on the boy's uniforms.
"Wait! That crest! It's the mark of the Rising Sun! Are you three knights?! Please, you have to help me find my Mama and Papa!"
"Oh we'd love to help you young lady, but-" Magnus was silenced by Jerome's paw over his mouth as the Growlithe flashed a grin at the puzzled Buneary.
"Excuse us, fro one moment, please." he said before pulling Johan and Magnus into a huddle. "Guys don't you see? This is the chance we've been waiting for!" he whispered.
"But we're only apprentices. We're not allowed on official missions yet." Magnus said. "And what about the errand? If we don't get this job done we'll be in even more trouble."
"Maybe we should take her back with us and tell Master Marcus so he can send a squad to help her." Johan suggested.
"What are you guys, nuts?! This is our chance to prove we've got what it takes. If we pull this off we'll surely get promoted to certified knights."
"And if we don't, we could get kicked out of the Order for insubordination and possibly endangering a citizen." Magnus argued.
"Have a little faith in yourself, Mag, jeez." Jerome rolled his eyes. "Fisk said we needed to step up our game and take responsibility. Well let's start right here right now. Who's with me?!" Jerome said putting his paw into the circle. Johan and Magnus looked at each other before the former grinned and put his hand and the latter soon followed after sighing before they turned to face the Buneary.
"We'll find your parents, Little Miss." Jerome grinned proudly. "As knights of the Rising Sun we will not fail you. Now then, where did you last see your folks?"
"Not too far inside that forest." the Buneary replied.
"Do you have anything that belongs to them? If I can get a scent on them we'll be able to find them easier." Jerome said as the Buneary held up a bag she was carrying.
"It's my Mama's herb satchel. It was all I found after they vanished. Jerome trotted over to the her before he sniffed the bag deeply. There were many herbs mixed in with it so it was difficult to single out the Mother's scent but he eventually grasped it and looked to the nearby woods.
"They're still there. we can find them come on!" he grinned as eh ran off with the others in tow.
"Oh thank you, thank you!"
"Don't thank us yet. Wait till you're back in your parent's arms." Johan suggested as they entered the forest. "I'm Johan by the way."
"And I'm Magnus."
"Jerome Cliffton." the Growlithe said over his shoulder as he sniffed the path following the trail.
"I'm Daisy." the Buneary introduced herself. But just then Jerome held up his paw halting the group.
"What is it? what do you smell?" Johan asked as Jerome sniffed the air deeply.
"Lopunny. Two of them." he identified.
"Mama and Papa." Daisy confirmed.
"They're just beyond these bushes. But they're not alone." Jerome said as the group crept closer and looked to see a large iron cage with a wild Gogoat towing it. Riding the cage cart was a Golem and Throh and inside the cage were a male and female Lopunny who both looked dreadfully frightened the male trying to comfort his wife as best he could.
"Stop crying back there!" the Throh snapped at her. "No one's coming to save you so shut up till we reach Barraki."
"They're going where?" Magnus asked.
"I've heard stories there's a great underground black market in the Naru Desert. All the lowest forms of scum hang out there to do Arceus knows what crimes." Johan said. "If we let them take those Lopunny they'll never see daylight again."
"Mama. Papa." Daisy whimpered
"What do we do? Should one of us go get help? Those two look pretty tough." Magnus said.
"We can take 'em it's three against two." Jerome grinned.
"You're being cocky again, Jer." Johan muttered. "You know I can't fight ground types and I only know electric moves so far."
"Then you take the Throh I'll handle the Golem and Mag you free Daisy's parents." Jerome instructed.
"No! Our top priority is freeing the parents. There must be another way that doesn't involve us or them getting killed." Magnus thought for a moment before his eyes widened. "Guys I've got an idea." he pulled Jerome and Johan close and whispered to them.
"Are you sure that'll work?" Jerome questioned.
"It has to. It's the only way we can assure Daisy and her family are safe." Magnus answered. "Just trust me. We can do this." the three nodded before facing Daisy.
"Stay here. Your Mama and Papa are gonna be fine." Johan said and they walked into the clearing before Daisy could stop them. "HEY! ASSHOLES!" the Golem and Throh immediately looked to see them. "Let those Lopunny go right now!"
"Well look what we've got here; three little runts too far from home." the Golem said mockingly.
"Look shrimps. We're on a tight schedule here so get lost before we throw you in with these two." the Throh threatened.
"Oh? Are you sure that's a good idea?" Magnus asked. "We know you're taking those Loppuny to be sold as slaves but how much do you think the black market will pay for 'em? You'll be lucky if they even sell at all." the two traffickers looked at each other before Magnus continued. "But us on the other hand...a Magby, Elekid and Growlithe. Unless you're incredibly stupid, you know what we evolve into." the Golem looked at his partner in crime as the image of a Magmortar, Electivire and Arcanine crossed his mind and the thought of the high price they fetch.
"GRAB THEM!" he said but before the Throh could go for them Johan raised his hand.
"Hold it! I doubt you'll be able to fit all five of us int hat little cage so let's make a deal. You let the happy couple go and take us instead."
"Done." the Throh replied before he opened the cage and threw the Loppuny out before grabbing the boys putting them in place.
"You fiends! Let those kids go!" the male one shouted.
"Those kids, just saved you and your wife from a life of slavery so I suggest you get out of here before we change our minds. You wouldn't want to make their sacrifice meaningless, would you?" the Golem sneered before snapping the reigns and the cart trundled on.
"Don't worry about us! We'll be fine!" Jerome called tot he couple who watched them go with anguish.
"Yeah keep telling yourself that after being branded, kid." the Throh said. The couple watched their saviours be towed away until a little voice called to them.
"MAMA! PAPA!" they wheeled around to see Daisy running toward them.
"DAISY!" the Mother cried as the Buneary leapt into her arms and the family embraced each other in reunion. "OH my baby! I thought I'd never see you again!"
"I'm so glad you're free!"
"But what are you doing here? How did you find us?!" the Father asked.
"It was those boys. They're knights of the Rising Sun and helped me find you! But I didn't know they'd swap places with you!"
"Those poor kids. They're not much older than you and yet they gave themselves up to save us." the Mother said.
"We have to help them! The castle isn't far from here, let's hurry!" the Father said before they began to rush back to Cynderstohn as fast as they could.
XXX
Back at the castle Fisk was pacing about the courtyard waiting for the boys to return with the broadswords.
"Where are those slackers?! They should've been back by now." he grumbled when he noticed something approaching the gateway fast. "Oh? Are they finally here?" he thought until it was in fact Daisy and her parents.
"HELP! PLEASE HELP!" he Mother cried.
"Whoa-whoa! Slow down there, what's wrong?" Fisk asked as he tried to calm them.
"Three of your knights have been taken captive by traffickers!" Daisy's Father said.
"WHAT?!"
"My parents were capture by these mean Pokemon but three of your knights gave themselves up in exchange for them!" Daisy explained.
"GRAND MASTER!" Fisk shouted. "We have a serious situation!" soon after he called, a robed Lucario came running out of the castle. This was Grand Master Marcus Sirius IV.
"What is it, Fisk?"
"Three of our knights gave themselves up to Pokemon traffickers to free this family!" the Hariyama said.
"They did what?! Well this is terrible we have to find them immediately!" Marcus exclaimed. "Do you know who they were? Did they give their names?" he asked the rabbit family.
"Yes I know!" Daisy spoke. "They said their names were Jerome, Johan and Magnus." Marcus and Fisk went silent when she said this before the the latter growled in frustration.
"THOSE FOOLS! I give them one job to do and they go trying to play heroes!"
"What do you mean?" Marcus asked.
"I sent them to town to pick up the broadswords we requested as punishment for being late but instead they do this and now they've got themselves caught! I just know Jerome talked them into this! That boy's getting too big for his britches."
"They aren't far from here!" Daisy's Mother piped up. "My Husband and I were caught in the forest just beyond the village and I'm sure they're still there if we hurry we can catch up to them."
"Fisk come with me." Marcus ordered. "You lot return to your homes, we'll handle this." he added to the family before he and Fisk took off after the boys. "They willingly offered themselves as slaves to reunite this family." he thought.
XXX
Back in the forest the cart was quietly making its way down the road while the trio sat in the back whispering to each other.
"Ok, you guys remember the plan?" Magnus said to which they nodded. "Ok then form the tower." With that Jerome hopped onto Magnus' back and he onto Johan's shoulders.
"What are you doing back there?" The Golem asked.
"Oh don't you know? We're performers. We thought we'd just practise one of our acts to pass the time. We call this one the 'Static Stack Up.'" Johan said as he balanced his friends on his shoulders while whirling his arms.
"And why is it called that?" The Throh asked suspiciously.
"This is why!" Johan answered back before he slammed his fists into the metal floor of the cage sending our a blast of electricity through the cart paralysing the traffickers and spooking the Gogoat which took off quick as lightning. "Now, Magnus!" The Magby and Jerome hopped down from Johan before Magnus ran to the bars of the cage and began spitting lava onto them melting them instantly.
"No cage can withstand my heat." He grinned. "Let's go!" The three then jumped out of the now melted cage before facing the enemy who were starting to approach them.
"You little bastards! You tricked us!" The Golem snarled.
"I knew there was something off about you just giving yourselves up like that!" The Throh cursed.
"That's right, this was our plan all along!" Jerome said. "Or rather Mag's plan. We had to get you as faraway from that family as we could so you wouldn't pull any hostage tactics. Now we can go full out in taking you both down!"
"Good luck with that! There may be three of you but we've got the type advantage!" said the Golem.
"Don't underestimate us!" Johan grinned but as they prepared to attack something blue and glowing shot right passed the trio and struck the Golem in the chest sending him flying.
"What the hell was that?!" The Throh said in shock.
"An aura sphere." Jerome whispered. "But that can only mean..." Before he could finish his sentence two blurs came speeding out of the foliage as one seisen the Throh by the arm and swung him into the ground KOing him. They were revealed to be Fisk, who'd attacked the Other fighting type, and Marcus who grabbed the Golem and pulled him up.
"The two of you are under arrest for attempted Pokemon trafficking!" He said before he and Fisk tossed the both into the cage while the latter bent the remaining bars to fill the melted hole.
"Yeah! Way to go you guys!" Johan praised the two Knights but he soon shrank back when turned to face the group with frowns. "Good job?"
"So, mind explaining to me why you three posed as official knights and took on a pair of traffickers?" Marcus asked.
"Even when I tasked you with collecting that order?" Fisk added. The boys gulped nervously before Jerome answered.
"Because it was the right thing to do. Even if it meant disobeying you, Sir Fisk. Daisy's parents were gonna be sold and we would've lost them if we went back to the castle for help. It was the only way we could assure their safety."
"I know we're only assistants but we thought this could also be our chance to prove ourselves." Johan explained. "We wanted to show you we have what it takes to be real knights and not just chore boys."
"But even so we still disobeyed you so if you feel we deserve to be kicked out for insubordination then I guess that's all we deserve." Magnus said. "But to be honest if disobeying to do what's right is all it takes to get suspended from the Order...then we don't think it's worth being in." Marcus and Fisk looked at each other before they nodded and faced the trio.
"Well. We have only two words to say to you." Marcus said.
"No regrets, no regrets, no regrets!" Johan thought.
"It was fun while it lasted, guys." Magnus whimpered in his head.
"So long dream, this is where we part." Jerome bid his future adieu before Fisk spoke.
"You pass."
"...HUH?!" the trio gawked.
"You. Pass." Marcus repeated.
"Pass?! B-But we-" Johan tried to speak.
"Yes you disobeyed an order from me, but at the same time you did what I hoped of you. You stepped up your game and took responsibility." Fisk said.
"It's true insubordination isn't encouraged." Marcus started. "But abandoning those in need is something far more unforgivable. You three were willing to risk your lives in every definition if it meant reuniting Daisy with her Mother and Father. That takes true heart and that's something this Order values above all else."
"So...you mean?" Jerome began to grin which the Knights returned in full.
"I'm promoting you to certified Knights of the Rising Sun." Marcus declared. The three friends beamed at each other before they cheered.
"WE DID IT! WE'RE OFFFICIALY KNIGHTS! Jerome whooped as they jumped for joy.
"Congratulations boys." Fisk grinned. "Now...GET THOSE SWORDS TO THE CASTLE!"
"YES, SIR!"
XXX
And so it was that after returning home and receiving thanks from Daisy and her parents the boys were presented with official armor styled to their form. Jerome was emblazaned in a scarlet and gold suit while Johan's was gold and black with swirled fo silver and Magnus' was coloured orange and bronze. All three knights were now sitting together on the castle walls staring at the night sky together.
"Well we made it, guys. I'm closer than ever to achieving my dream." Jerome grinned.
"There you go again. Give yourself twenty years before you talk so confidently." Johan smirked.
"Grand Master is a high goal for a reckless pup like you." Magnus snickered.
"Oh thanks for the support." Jerome muttered as the other two laughed before Johan spoke.
"You know guys. We've been through a lot together over the years. We all met in this village. Went on adventures in the woods together. Joined the Order and now here we are."
"I know. We're still young and yet we've made it this far already." Magnus agreed.
"That's why I have a proposition for you both." Johan said before he pulled out a bottle and three cups.
"Is that sake?!" Jerome asked surprised.
"Yeah I swiped a bottle fromt he cellar." Johan grinned.
"Well we've disobeyed once. What's one more?" Magnus asked.
"Who are you and what have you done with Magnus?" Jerome questioned.
"Look. Like I said we've been through a lot of things together and now that we're proper knights we're bound to go through even more together." Johan said. "We're a team and we've always got each other's backs but there may be times we have to work alone or maybe even have our own squad to command. So I say, to commemorate this moment, we exchnage this drink between ourselves as brothers. That way, even if we're apart at times, we'll always be connected no matter what comes our way. What do ya say?" the Magby and Growlithe glance at each other before they smiled and looked back at the Elekid. No words were needed as Johan poured out a cup for each of thema nd heald his forward.
"From this point on we're brothers to the end."
"No matter what happens." Magnus said holding his cup over Johan's.
"The bond we share will never break." Jerome grined with his cup above Magnus' before they drank. And so began the great journey these three would take their friendship closer than ever.
~~~Back to the Present~~~
"So that's how you became my Uncles?" Alexis asked.
"Yes, and that was only the beginning." Magnus replied.
"You know the way you're telling it, Dad sounds kinda like me."
"Well that's only cause he was. You can't imagine how bullheaded and crazy he was back then." Johan grinned.
"Hey! You were plenty reckless yourself!" Jerome rebutted.
"So what happened next? What was it like after you became fully fledged knights?" Daniel asked excitedly.
"Well we were a lot like Damien." Johan started. "As the years passed we became commanding officers with our own squads. But one years a couple of new faces came into our lives."
~~~32 Years Ago...~~~
"GET MOVING! I want all the valuable of this town in the bag or we start burning your homes down!" a little town in western Pyrus is being raided by a gang of thugs lead by a gruff looking Rhyhorn . The frightened townspeople can only watch as his associates swipe everything shiny they can get their hands on and stuffing them in bags.
"That's the last of it now let's get out of here." the Rhyhorn said to his group until one of them, a Pinsir, began to hop about on the ground hissing sharply.
"What are you doing?" the Rhyhorn asked.
"Can't you feel that?! The ground's red hot! I feel like I'm standing on a frying pan!" the Pinsir said trying to keep feet form touching the earth as little as he could.
"But it feels fine to me." the Rhyhorn said but then he noticed the earth beneath his crony was starting to grow redder and brighter before BOOM! A pillar of fire erupted form the spot engulfing the bug type. Everyone yelped in surprise before the flames stopped and standing there, holding a charred but still alive Pinsir by his foot, was a Magmar.
"What's up?" he asked the Rhyhorn whose eyes widened when he saw the crest on the fire types armor.
"THE RISING SUN!" he shouted. "RUN FOR IT!" the gang of thieves began to run with the loot in tow but as they did so a purple blur suddenly flew at a fleeing Mienfoo and...licked him causing the fighting type to freeze like a statue and fall flat on his back. The Magmar grimaced slightly.
"Gozer you know I find that disgusting." he said as the blur took the shape of a sniggering Haunter.
"Hey put's 'em down don't it, Cap'n?" he laughed. The rest of the thieves continued to run but then a soothing music began to reach their ears causing their step to slow and their eyes droop before they all collapsed in a snoring heap.
"Nicely done, Tundra." the Magmar said as a little Snover came into view form behind a nearby bush a grass whistle to his mouth.
"All in a day's work, Magnus." the Snover replied. Yes this was none other than Magnus, now seventeen years of age and Captain of his own platoon.
"Here are your valuables, Sirs and Madams." he said as he, Gozer and Tundra returned with the stolen goods and the criminals bound but still asleep.
"We can't thank you enough, Captain Magnus." a Bidoof praised the knight.
"Hey it's what we do." the Magmar smiled. "You lot take care now, we're headed back to HQ." the three knights walked off with the citizens waving and cheering them.
"Another job well done, Mag." Gozer patted his Captain on the back. "I wonder how things are going on Joe's end?"
"Ah we'll find out when he gets back. He can handle himself, especially with his tam backing him up." Magnus said.
XXX
In another part of the country, a band of rogues were gathered in a cave looking over a chart. Among them were a Sneasel, Cacturne, Tyrogue and Seismitoad.
"Alright you remember the plan? We head for Cynderstohn at nightfall and invade the castle by tunneling underneath it. Grand Master Marcus' head will be ours." the Seismitoad grinned sinisterly.
"You really think we can pull off a job like that?" the Sneasel questioned doubtfully. "He's not the Grand Master for nothing you know."
"Which is why we'll kill him in his sleep. It's the best chance we have of getting near him." the Tyrogue explained.
"And that poison you got from the black market is legit?" the Cacturne checked.
"Yep. Concentrated Drapion venom. We slip this in him and he's good as dead." the Seismitoad confirmed holding up a bottle of the aforementioned fluid. But then, all of a sudden the bottle was swiped from his hand out of thin air and began to float away across the cave.
"What the?! HEY! Give that back!" the amphibian shouted at the invisible thief as he and his goons chased after the bottle leading them out of the cave.
"Look!" the Tyrogue pointed as the rogues looked to see a strange red zigzag ring hovering beneath the bottle.
"What the hell is that?" the Sneasel asked before a green shape began to fade into view with the zigzag encircling its body before a young Kecleon appeared before them clutching the poison in her hand.
"Looking for something?" she smirked. Smash! The bottle shattered as she threw it to the ground.
"NO! You slimy little lizard I'll kill you!" the Seismitoad screamed in anger of his foiled plan.
"Hey Boss! What's that on your back?" the Cacturne spoke up pointing to what looked like a giant four legged white ant that had suddenly appeared on the Seismitoad's back. But before he could even notice the insect it sunk its fangs into his skin.
"GAAAAHH!" instantly his body was engulfed by a green light and soon he began to grow weak as his legs gave out and he fell to his knees panting heavily.
"BOSS! What did you do to him?!" the Sneasel cried as the large insect scuttled off of the Seimitoad revealed to be a Nincada.
"I've sapped every ounce of strength from your leader. Lucky thing I know giga drain." he said. "NOW!" the rest of the rogues wheeled around when they heard a battle cry and looked to see two more Pokemon leap from above the cave. One was a shiny Kirlia in violet armor while the other was an Electabuzz in gold and black armor. The former raised her glowing hand causing the Tyrogue to become enveloped in pink light before she began to toss him around like a rag doll and then flung him at the Sneasel knocking the dark ice type to the ground. Meanwhile the Electabuzz's fist became engulfed in flames before he struck the Cacturne in the gut with a fiery POW knocking him out instantly.
"Now what was that about attempting to assassinate our Grand Master?" he asked the Seismitoad who though exhausted managed to remain conscious. "Face it. A bunch of cocky dumbasses like you couldn't hope to kill a knight of the Rising Sun let alone old mon Marcus." the Electabuzz grinned as he cracked his knuckles and began to approach the toad. "I'll make this last one count for Jerome. He'd love to beat you for making such threats." SLISH-SLASH! The Seismitoad was hit by a flurry of glowing green leaves which finally brought him down as he collapsed with swirly eyes. The Electabuzz chuckled as he looked back at the Kirlia who'd been the one to make the attack.
"Beat me to it again, Sanae. You're as sharp as ever." the Kirlia smiled.
"Well you were the one to train me, Captain." she said shyly.
"And well done to you as well, Athena, Cutter."
"The pleasure's ours, Johan." the Nincada saluted to the now seventeen year old Johan who like his brother Magnus had become a Captain with a loyal team of trainees; Athena the Kecleon, Cutter the Nincada and Sanae the Kirlia.
"Alright big, fat and potentially ugly, let's go for a walk." Johan said as he tied up the Seismitoad and began to drag the brute behind him. "You can think about what you planned to do on the way to prison. Can you guys grab the others?"
"As always we get the leftovers." Athena muttered hoisting the Sneasel over her shoulder while Cutter picked up the Tyrogue and Sanae levitated the Cacturne.
"A shame Jerome had to miss out on this job. He would've loved to rough these thugs up." the Nincada said.
"Yeah, but Master Marcus gave him an important mission." Athena replied.
"It's been two days since Victor went missing. I hope he's still alive." said Sanae with concern.
"I know he's a jerk but Jerry feels responsible for him. Those two fought all the time when we were young." Johan spoke. "Plus the guy's a brick wall, he won't go down easy. Wherever he is he's sure to come home sooner or later."
XXX
Just as they had said, Jerome, now an Arcanine, was indeed searching for his comrade, Victor the Houndoom. The two had met as cubs during their early years int he order and had been close rivals for years. But a couple of days ago Victor had abruptly vanished without a trace during the war. As such, Jerome had been searching all over Pyrus for him since but so far he'd had no luck. The Arcanine was currently riding atop his Rapidash through the dirt roads of a nearby town close to Cynderstohn to carry out his latest search for Victor but little did he know he was soon to have a fateful encounter.
Just up ahead three female Pokemon were making their way down a different street; a Glameow, Vespiquen and another Arcanine. Their names were Samantha, Zelda and Alexia and the three friends were chatting amongst themselves when Jerome came galloping passed them failing to notice the puddle of mud which lay before them. SPLATTER! The muddy water spattered the three girls as the knight's Rapidash sped through the puddle causing a scream of shock to come from the ladies.
"HEY YOU JERK! WATCH WHERE YOU'RE GOING!" Samantha shouted causing Jerome to reign his horse and hurriedly dismount it.
"Oh I'm so sorry, ladies I didn't see...you...there." his words slowed to a crawl when his eyes fell upon Alexia. Despite being caked in mud all the young man could see before him was the most beautiful woman he'd ever seen. In fact, he'd become so infatuated by her prettiness he couldn't hear her chewing him out.
"This is one of my favourite outfits you reckless idiot! Are you even listening to me?!" she asked when she noticed the look he was giving her. "And wipe that smile off your face!"
"Hey Alexia look!" Zelda pointed to Jerome's armour. "This guy's a knight! He must be from the Rising Sun!"
"Is that so?" Alexia asked. Jerome had snapped out of his love struck state by this point and smiled proudly.
"That's right. Captain Jerome Cliffton of the Rising Sun. Pleasure to meet you, milady." he introduced himself though Alexia didn't seem impressed in the slightest.
"Che. Well that explains your stupidity and recklessness." she muttered. Jerome frowned a little when he heard this.
"What's that supposed to mean?"
"I could only expect such clumsy carelessness from a Pokemon reigning from an order as pathetic as the Rising Sun. That Order is nothing but trouble!" Alexia spat.
"Hey!" Jerome shouted back angrily. "The Rising Sun are a noble, valiant and just group who protect and serve the innocent! My mentor and Brothers are in that Order!"
"Well my Father doesn't seem to think that! Whenever you knights are around all you do is make a mess wherever you go! The Rising Sun are nothing but a bunch of riffraff!"
"How dare you?!" Jerome snarled. "You don't know a damn thing about the Rising Sun you ignorant bitch! And your old man must be going senile if you're taking his word for it!" SOCK! Jerome's face was met with Alexia's fist sending him back a few feet. The Arcanine sat up after a couple of seconds, seemingly unphased, as he glared at the female with considerable rage, wiping the trace of blood from his nose.
"Oh now it's on." he said before he charged at Alexia and struck her back. POW! Her friends gasped when she hit the ground.
"Alexia!" Samantha cried as she got back up.
"You bastard!" FWOOOOSH! She shot a stream of fire form her mouth at Jerome who leapt away from it before countering with his own flamethrower. BOOM! The two fire attacks crashed into each other as a huge cloud of smoke erupted from the collision while the two Arcanine remained standing.
"...Not bad...woman." Jerome panted as did Alexia.
"You knights are certainly strong. I'll give ya that much."
"Then are you ready to apologise for insulting us?"
"I have nothing to apologise for!"
"THAT'S IT!" Jerome snapped before he tackled Alexia and the two began rolling around the muddy road as they wrestled each other. But then...
"WHAT'S HAPPENING HERE?!" the two immediately stopped to see none other than Marcus approaching them on his own shiny Rapidash. "Jerome why are you picking fights when you should be looking for Victor right now?!"
"Well I was, Sir, until I accidentally splashed this bitch and her friends as I rode passed them."
"What was that?!" Alexia snapped.
"I tried to apologise but then she insulted our entire Order. She called us riffraff who leave a mess wherever we go. She insulted you, Joe, Mag, Victor everyone and she's yet to apologise!" Marcus turned his gaze to the female Arcanine who couldn't help feeling a little intimidated by the Lucario before he spoke.
"Young lady. For what reason would you have to give us such a description?" he asked calmly. Alexia gulped before she answered him.
"Because whenever your knights are in town fighting rogues and whatnot my Father's property is repeatedly damaged from their recklessness. He's had to repair his store and produce several times because of them." Marcus looked at her for a few moments before he reached into his saddle bag.
"Ms Alexia." he began. "Exactly how many times has this happened? If you can recall."
"About...four or five times. All of them quite impactful." Marcus nodded, having listened, before he retrieved a large bag of coins and tossed it to her.
"There's about a hundred thousand poke in there." he said. "I'm not much of a money expert but it should be enough to cover the expenses." Alexia and Jerome both gaped in shock. "And I would also like to give you my sincerest apologies on behalf of those responsible. The Rising Sun does not stand for such behaviour and I will assure it doesn't happen again, Ms Alexia. I hope you and your Father will forgive us." the Arcanine stared at the Lucario incomprehensive of the situation.
"Now if you'll pardon us, Jerome and I have a search to continue. Come, Jerome." Marcus said as Jerome mounted his steed and followed after his mentor leaving the girls behind.
"Wow. That Marcus guy's a real noble." Samantha commented.
"Seems Jerome wasn't full of hot air with what he said about the Rising Sun." Zelda added as Alexia watched the pair ride off.
XXX
After searching for a few more hours but without seeing hide nor hair of Victor, Jerome and Marcus rode back to Cynderstohn where they were greeted by Johan and Magnus along with their troops.
"No luck finding Victor then?" Magnus frowned.
"Unfortunately." Jerome confirmed before noticing the mound of bound criminals. "Seems you guys had better luck than me though."
"Piece of cake." Johan grinned kicking the Seismitoad. "This fat one was plotting to kill Gramps in his sleep."
"Was he now?" Jerome glared. "Well he can wallow in his failure while in prison. Nice job, Joe."
"Agh I can't take the credit, it was Sanae and Cutter who took him out."
"Oh no there's no need to flatter me, Captain." the shiny Kirlia blushed profoundly. But at that moment a galloping noise reached the groups ears before they spotted another Rapidash approaching the gate.
"Clear the way, Pokemon~!" its rider called as they skidded passed the group to a halt a cage of rogues being towed behind them which included a Croconaw, Shiftry and Glalie. The knight leapt down from their horse before removing their helmet revealing themselves to be a female Combusken.
"J-Jinmay! Welcome back." Johan smiled.
"Hi, Joe. Hey everyone. Wow looks like you caught a big haul today."
"You're one to talk." Tundra commented. "All three of these by yourself? Even a water type?"
"They were all talk after I introduced them to my feet." Jinmay grinned. "Still no sign of Victor, Jerome?"
"Afraid not."
"Well I'm sure he'll turn up soon enough. Nothing can keep that dog down. Well I gotta take these thugs to the brig. Catch you later, guys." she said towing the cage off tot he jail block.
"S-See you around, Jinmay!" Johan waved with an awkward chuckle while the others sighed.
"Sheesh, Cap'n. I'm surprised she's the only one who hasn't noticed you've got the hots for her." Gozer muttered.
"Well, maybe there's a chance she doesn't like him that way." Sanae assumed. "I mean there's nothing wrong with just being friends with her, right, Captain?" Johan didn't seem to notice her as he watched Jinmay go before he turned serious.
"No, you know what? I'm not hanging around anymore. If I don't approach her I'll lose her. Jinmay's one of the coolest girls I know and I'm not gonna stand by and watch some musclebound beefcake sweep her off her feet. I'm gonna ask her out tomorrow and get an answer."
"Hehe, I never thought you'd pluck up to ask her, Joe." Jerome snickered. "You're already soft enough crushing on her, you'll turn into a puddle if she starts dating you."
"Oh like you have room to tease him about love, Jerome." Marcus smirked.
"What do you mean by that?"
"I mean that's funny seeing how you were googling over that young lady earlier on."
"HUH?!"
"Oh~? What's this about you and a lady~?" Athena asked.
"Jerome here ran into an Arcanine named Alexia. They got into a little fight but I could see him blushing as we left." Marcus grinned.
"Master please!" Jerome begged.
"Ohoho! That's rich! The bullheaded firespitter going gaga, never thought I'd live to see the day, and I'm already dead!" Gozer laughed.
"I DO NOT love her! She was a stuck up huffy bitch who insulted our Order!"
"Well she was in the right mind. We need to be more careful when fighting rogues or someone may lose their home." Marcus said while Jerome huffed irritably. There was no way he could have feelings for that girl. Sure she was pretty but after encountering her attitude he had no reason to see her again...did he?
XXX
The next morning Jerome began to go about his daily routine like any other day. But try as he might, he couldn't get Alexia out of his head. Despite gettign off on the wrong foot, he couldn't deny the young lady was strong, sassy and prettier than a Florges in spring. What's more, she had this flame about her that he'd never experienced before and the more he thought about her the more he felt bad for getting on such bad terms with her. So, after he'd finished his tasks for the day he rode off to the village Alexia lived in and after seeing her make her way to a small house he casually strolled up to it and knocked on the door which the young lady soon answered. At fist she seemed surprised but her face soon twisted into a frown.
"What do you want?" she snorted. "If you're here for a rematch I'm not interested."
"No, no." Jerome replied. "Look, I had some time to think about what happened yesterday and I just wanted to say I'm sorry for splashing you and insulting you. This Order is like a family to me so I've always been quick to defend it but I should have heard you out first. Please forgive me." Alexia looked at him as he hung his head shamefully before she smiled a little.
"It's alright. I apologise too for insulting your Order like that. I was pompous and small minded to think all of you knights that way." Jerome smiled before she added with a glare.
"You mean you forgive me?"
"Only if you forgive me." Jerome smiled back at her before they shook paws. "Let's start over. I'm Alexia."
"Jerome. And that's a very pretty name. Perhaps I could introduce you to my friends sometime?"
"I think that would be quite nice." Alexia agreed. "And you know...you're not so bad, for riffraff." she said teasingly.
"Whatever you say...bitch." Jerome grinned in the same tone earning a chuckle from Alexia before she glared and prodded his chest.
"But don't ever, get me muddy, again." the Captain flinched at first before he snorted and let out a laugh which irked her a bit. "What's so funny?! I'm serious!"
XXX
Back in Cynderstohn, Johan was preparing for his date with Jinmay. He'd approached the Combusken and asked her if she wanted to go out for dinner which she casually agreed to. Naturally the Electabuzz was in a complete tizzy over how he was to impress her but luckily he had Magnus to calm him down.
"Look just relax. You'll do fine." he said as Johan was preparing to take the fire type out.
"Yeah I know, I know." the Electabuzz said. "I just never thought this day would come. Part of of me still thinks I'm gonna wake up in bed and this has all been a dream."
"You want me to pinch you?"
"No I'm good." Johan took a deep breath before sighing. "Ok, here I go."
"Good luck." Magnus called.
"Won't need it I hope." Johan answered as he entered the restaurant where Jinmay was waiting for him.
"Hey, Joe!" she waved as Johan took a seat opposite her. "So how'd that mission go?"
"Good, good." Johan replied. "Some big head though he could assassinate Master Marcus but my team and I put him and his goons in their place."
"Awesome! You've really trained your troop well." Jinmay praised. "I should probably consider getting my own squad."
"Nothing wrong with having some friends at your back." Johan grinned. "I don't know how many times Sanae and Cutter have saved my ass. And no one can do stealth like Athena."
"You know you really have grown a lot since you started out as an Elekid."
"Yeah you can thank Jerry for that one. He may have been cocky but the guy has plenty of heart."
"One of the qualities of being part of this Order." Jinmay said. "Now that I look back on it, when I was just a Torchic I never thought I'd have a chance here, especially since I didn't have arms."
"What are you kidding? I thought you were awesome even back then. You were able to use your beak in place of a sword during practice one time. You've always pushed yourself to the limit, Jinny and you've only gotten stronger. Honestly I feel like I'm the one who didn't have a chance at the Order. Heck, I didn't think I had a chance landing a date with you and I'm nervous you might get bored of me before we even get to appetizers and-."
"Joe!" Jinmay interrupted. "Just relax. You don't have to try so hard, I think you're awesome too." she added before giving him a peck on the cheek making him gape in shock. "You're not on a dangerous mission or anything."
"Sorry." Johan chuckled. "I was just so nervous I wasn't thinking straight."
"It's fine. Let's just enjoy our time together." Jinmay smiled placing her hand on his. "You never told me exactly how you, Jerry and Mag became knights." Johan smiled back at her as he began to tell her the story. But not too faraway the pair were being watched by Sanae and Cutter, the former wearing a sad expression. The Nincada looked at her before placing a gentle claw on her shoulder.
"...I'm sorry, Sanae. I know you'd been planning to ask him out." the shiny Kirlia trembled and shook her head as she faced cutter with a forced smile.
"It's no big deal, Cutter. It was j-just a silly crush. I knew he'd go after Jinmay some day. I-It's not like I thought I really had a ch-chance." she tried to sound strong as her voice continued to break before Cutter pulled her into a hug, patting her back as she gently sobbed on his shoulder.
XXX
And so the months rolled by as the group knights continued to serve and protect their country. But a few things were different from before. For starters, Victor had returned a couple of days later though he seemed different, as though he'd been through hell itself making him colder and more distant from the others which though ti did trouble them they agreed he just needed time to recover from whatever it was he'd been through. But some good changes had come about to the Order as well. Johan and Jinmay for instance had continued their relationship and become quite the couple, often goign out on jobs together and the latter had even joined his squad as they'd become quite the versatile team. As for Jerome, he'd found himself visiting Alexia more and more often. He'd tell her stories of his adventures with his brothers and friends, invite her out for walks and he'd even treat her to a meal sometimes. Anyone could see that the two Arcanine were growing closer with each meeting and while they hadn't exactly become a couple themselves, it was clear both had began to develop feelings for one another but couldn't come forward about them. Luckily, that little roadblock would soon come to an end and in the most unlikely of locations.
"Alright listen up." Marcus spoke. "We've got a battalion of Pokemon from Etoile advancing towards us. An independent rogue from the Dukedom has put together a group and began to march on our country. The group isn't big enough to conquer us but still poses a large threat to the villagers. I'm assigning Captains Jerome, Johan, Magnus, Jinmay, Victor and their troops to head them off. Don't take these enemies lightly, some of them are quite versatile opponents so be prepared."
"SIR!" the knights saluted as they prepared for battle. While they suited up, Johan and Magnus looked a each other before taking a small box out of their armory. Inside were two small mechanical cubes, one yellow and one red.
"Do you think this might be the one?" Johan asked.
"We can't rule out the possibility. This is going to be quite the battle and Master Marcus' word must never be taken for granted."
"Maybe so but are we really ready? Sure we'd be stronger, but we'd be slower too. And this would still be a huge decision for us in general. You know we can't come back from it." Magnus thought for a moment before he suggested.
"Why don't we hold onto each others, for safe keeping, and if worse comes to worst we swap. How about that?"
"That's a good idea. At least then we won't have made the choice for nothing." Johan agreed before he pocketed the red cube while Magnus took the yellow one as they armored up and went to join Jerome and the others.
XXX
Alexia sat quietly in her home as she glanced at the clock for the seventh time today. Jerome had made it a habit to drop by at 12:00 and it was nearly two in the afternoon.
"That isn't like Jerome. He's never this late without notice." she said to herself. "Maybe he's held up at the castle." she added before she headed off towards Cynderstohn to meet up with Jerome. But upon reaching the castle, she found neither he nor any of his comrades in sight.
"Alexia?" she looked to see Marcus approaching her. "What are you doing here, my dear?"
"Master Marcus. I don't mean to be a bother, but usually Jerome comes by my house for a visit and he's two hours late. I was wondering where he might be."
"Ah." Marcus' expression turned grim. "He's not here at the moment. He's...on a job, near the border to Etoile."
"Oh. Well do you know when he might be back?"
"I'm afraid not. So sorry."
"I see. Please excuse me." Alexia bowed as she began to leave but when she saw Marcus walk back inside she quietly followed him and saw the Lucario talking with Fisk the Hariyama.
"That friend of Jerome's, eh? I take it you didn't give her the details?" he asked.
"No. I didn't want to worry the poor girl. I may have complete faith in Jerome and the others but we can't rule out the possibility they might die in this battle." Alexia gasped silently.
"I know. Those kids have come a long way but in the end we are all still only Pokemon. I just pray they pull through this fight." Fisk said solemnly. Little did they know the female Arcanine had stolen one of the Rapidash and was now riding towards the location of the battle. She had to help, in any way she could. She couldn't afford to risk losing him.
XXX
A few miles away the platoon of knights were marching towards the the border with Etoile to intercept the band of rogues coming from the other land. As they reached the battlefield they spotted a group of about one hundred and fifty Pokemon lead by a menacing looking Typhlosion riding atop a wild Mamoswine.
"That's it? Only a hundred and fifty?" Gozer rolled his eyes.
"Don't underestimate them. Even if you are immune to fighting and normal types." Athena cautioned.
"Alright, knights! We're in for quite the battle here today!" Jerome said. "We may be strong but we must always be prepared for the worst so watch each other's backs and don't take your eyes off the enemy!"
"RIGHT!" the others responded as they faced the enemy.
"Ready?! CHARGE!" Jerome roared before the group charged towards the small army.
"PYRUS IS MINE!" the Typhlosion declared.
"You're even stupider than you look if you think a measly army like that will overthrow a country!" Johan retorted as he raised his electrified fists. WHAM! KRAKOOM! The earth began to crack and glow with yellow lightning before it began to rise beneath the enemy forces launching several dozen into the air.
"Oh shit! That's Thunder Drum Johan!" a Sawk gaped at the sight of the Electabuzz beating his chest with a battle cry. But the rogues didn't have time to respond as Magnus struck the earth as well causing pillars of lava to burst from the ground burning several of his opponents who screamed din pain from he searing heat.
"And that's Magnus the Volcano! I heard he fossilised an entire castle in lava!" a Rampardos said.
"We've shaken them, Jer! Go for the leader!" Johan said while punching a Feraligatr. The Arcanine nodded before he began to charge towards the Typhlosion who ordered his Mamoswine to attack Jerome with a hyper beam. BZAAAAAMM! The ice type released a blast of monstrous energy at the captain who took a flying leap to avoid it as he flew towards the Typhlosion and kicked him from the back of his overgrown steed. The fire type whistled fast as a number of his cronies surrounded Jerome before he could reach the rogue leader.
"You might have strength but we have numbers. You can't hold out forever!" he said.
"We'll just see about that!" Jerome answered back as he began to fight the enemies who attempted to jump him.
"Take THIS!" Jinmay cried as she delivered a solid mega kick to a Hitmonlee knocking it out. "How's it feel to be outmatched in what you're known for?!" she grinned. About twenty soldiers charged towards Gozer but the Haunter didn't falter as his eyes began to glow blue before the enemies' mirrored the colour and they collapsed into a sleeping pile.
"Now rest easy til you wake up in prison." he cackled before he sent an astral clone of himself through the sleeping crowd causing them to faint as the astral body returned to him now filled with energy from the targets. Elsewhere Cutter had been surrounded by rogues certain they had him trapped but as they were about to jump him the bug burrowed his way underground startling the fiends. They edged toward the hole he'd dug but as they looked into it a blinding burst of light erupted from the hole causing the enemy to fall back in pain clutching their blinded eyes as Sanae emerged form the hole with Cutter close behind her.
"Inefficient. These oafs really think they can conquer us?" she sniffed.
"Well they thought wrong." Cutter agreed. As the band of knights continued to fight the rogues, Alexia was riding toward their location as fast as she could hoping she wasn't too late to help them, or more accurately Jerome. As she galloped across the land she spotted plumes of smoke coming from nearby and as she drew closer she saw a large group of Pokemon battling against ten armored individuals. There was no doubt she'd reached the battlefield and she scanned the area for any sight of Jerome. But at that moment she gasped when she spotted the Arcanine captain battling a Poliwrath, though it seemed he was on the losing end as the tadpole was beating him back and forth across the face.
"not so tough when you fight a water type now, are you?!" the brute laughed as he delivered a left hook to Jerome's face making him spit blood. "I could keep this up all day!"
"So...can I!" Jerome panted back refusing to fall down despite the odds he was against. But just as the Poliwrath was about to deliver the final blow he was struck right int he spiral by beam of green light sending him crashing through a rock. Jerome turned in shock of where the attack had come from and gaped to see none other than Alexia standing before him grinning.
"Need some backup, riffraff?" she asked.
"Alexia...WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING HERE?!" Jerome squawked.
"You're welcome." she muttered back with a frown.
"This is the middle of a battle you shouldn't be here!"
"I was confused when you didn't show up! I went to the castle and overheard Master Marcus saying there was a chance you wouldn't come back! I had to help!"
"You aren't a knight, Alexia I can't allow you to get hurt!"
"Big talk, coming from the guy who was getting his fat ass kicked by that big blue balloon!"
"I was gonna finish him with a bite until you stepped in!"
"Yeah like you were gonna win! You can hardly keep your legs steady!"
"Oh get a bloody room, lovepups!" Johan shouted while punching a Diggersby he had in a headlock. "Or save the bickering for after you get married when we're done here!" the two hounds blushed form his comment.
"You're right! Now's not the time!" Jerome said before turning to Alexia. "If you're gonna fight just stick with me so I can watch your back."
"Only if you let me watch yours."
"Deal!" the two then turned to face the enemy and as they fought Jerome had to admit it helped to have one of his own fighting alongside. They were practically in sync as they plowed through the rows of fiends until they'd reached the Typhlosion leader.
"My comrades have your goons under their feet and now you're dealing with me and her!" Jerome grinned only for the fire type to laugh at him.
"Aren't you forgetting someone?!" MUUUUUU! The pair looked behind them to see his Mamoswine charging toward them but as they prepared to attack the neanderthal was tackled by Johan who gripped it by one of its tusks and held it still.
"What are you waiting for?! Take him down while I deal with jumbo over here!" he said as the ice type began swinging him around on its tusk trying to dislodge him trumpeting angrily. Meanwhile, Magnus was locked in combat with a Swampert who was wearing a cocky sneer.
"You may have roasted many of my comrades but this is where you fall, Magmar!" he said before unloading a hydro canon onto Magnus who returned fire with a fire blast. The ferocious flames held at first causing great plumes of steam to form between the two but the hydro canon was surely pushing forward extinguishing the flames fast. Magnus snarled in frustration as he glanced to see Johan was struggling too with his opponent as the Mamoswine had him trapped under on it's huge feet and was building up a hyper beam as he tried but failed to free himself. The Magmar turned away from his brother to see hsi fire was about to give out before he reached for the yellow cube in his pocket. He stared at the item for a moment before looking back to Johan as his face turned serious.
"JOHAN!" the Electabuzz turned sharply when he heard him as she saw Magnus raise the cube. Not needing an explanation, he reached for the red cube and reeled back his arm.
"CATCH!" he shouted back before the two brothers threw the cubes to one another and as they caught them...SHEEEEEEN! Everyone stopped fighting when they saw the two Pokemon become enveloped in a shimmering blue and white light which swirled around their forms which then began to change shape growing bigger and bulkier as their armor cracked and shattered from the strain. Johan slowly reach out and gripped the Mamoswine's foot startling it before with a thunderous roar he pushed the beast off him sending its hyper beam straight into the air, while Magnus with a hard swing dissipated the hydro canon shocking the Swampert until the light eventually faded before standing where the Electabuzz and Magmar once were, were an Electivire and Magmortar.
"...Joe? Mag?" Jerome murmured as the two Pokemon looked at him before they both grinned and gave him a thumbs up.
"Well it ain't Mewtwo, Jerry! GAHAHAHAHA!" Johan laughed.
"RAHOHOHO! Save the lame jokes for after we've won, Joe!" Magnus chuckled. The Swampert sucked his teeth at the fire type's attitude.
"Don't think you've won just because you've evolved! I still have the type advantage!"
"There's more to winning that type, boy. Much more." Magnus lectured which snapped the rogue.
"DIE!" he cursed blasting another hydro canon as Magnus pointed on of his arms at the attack before his hand retracted turning his arm into a canon of his own which then unleashed a tremendous burst of fire which upon hitting the hydro canon caused it to evaporate and then engulf the screaming Swampert in flames incinerating him to a charred inert form. Magnus proceeded to casually blow the smoke off his fist before he called to Johan. "Joe! Incoming!" as the Mamoswine rammed into the Electivire pushing him back while he gripped both its tusks causing it to eventually come to a stop.
"Looks like I might need a little juice." he smirked before he began to whirl his two long cable like tails causing his body to surge with electricity which sparked between his antenna as a growl of determination began to build up inside him, his grip tightening on the Mamoswine's tusks as it began to tremble slightly.
"I wonder if you know how to fly, Dumbo?!" Johan asked until with a roar of strength he began to swing the Mamoswine around in circles before he tossed the giant beast far off into the sky as it disappeared with a twinkle. "Guess not." Johan grinned as everyone stared dumbfounded at the act he'd just pulled.
"Joey you look so awesome!" Jinmay cried. "I can't believe you evolved."
"Haha, I know I'm still a little shocked myself." Johan chortled. "You like what ya see?" Jinmay smirked before she replied.
"Let's just say I'm not gonna be far behind. Now let's finish this!" he and she faced the remainder of the Typhlosions troops who were beginning to lose confidence. The aforementioned volcano Pokemon was now combating against the team of Jerome and Alexia.
"Face it. You've lost." the former declared.
"It's not over til it's over! We'll fight to the last mon!" the leader swore. Alexia sighed.
"Fine, guess we'll have to beat it into you." with that the two hounds charged the rogue leader who shot a fire blast at them which the Arcanine dodged as they returned fire striking the Typhlosion directly.
"Got him!" Jerome smirked but as the smoke cleared they gasped to see the fire type concealed in a large green bubble.
"Nice try, but no attack can penetrate my protect!" he grinned. "My turn." he then slammed his paws against the ground before the flames on his back licked the air fiercely. Jerome and Alexia watched curiously but then the ground beneath them began to shake before BOOOM! pillars of fire erupted from the earth beneath them as they leaped away in a panic from the surprise attack.
"Crap he knows eruption!" Alexia muttered before turning to Jerome. "Your leg!" the Captain hissed as it was revealed one of his hind legs had been badly burned while escaping the eruption.
"Damn. That's gonna slow me down." he cursed. "And he's using long range attacks, plus there's that shield as well if we get close to him. What do we do?" Alexia glanced between the Typhlosion and Jerome as she thought until she spoke.
"Jerome I think I have an idea." she beckoned him over and whispered to him.
"Are you serious?"
"It's the best shot we have. The others can't help us right now so it's up to us! Now are you with me?!" Jerome nodded. "Then let's do it!" she grinned before Jerome began to run toward the Typhlosion.
"You're not getting anywhere near me!" he said as he prepared for another attack when,
"Yoo-hoo~!" his snapped to face Alexia who winked at him as a flurry of pink heart flew from her eye and struck him causing a blush to crossover his face while Alexia giggled cutely at him. For a few moments he stared at her before he gritted his fangs and shook himself out of the trance just as Alexia released a solar beam...which shot passed him.
"HA! You missed!"
"Oh, did I?" Alexia smirked but as the Typhlosion looked behind him he had not time to dodge as Jerome was standing before him with a reflective barrier conjured in front and as the solar beam struck it, it ricocheted off and hit he Typhlosion straight in the back sending him skidding across the ground in cries of pain. But the Jerome wasn't done yet as he immediately chased after the rogue and with a battle cry unloaded a flurry of punches and kicks, pummeling him with a burst of close combat. And when the dust eventually cleared Jerome stood triumphant over the unconscious beaten body of the other fire type and upon seeing their leader defeated, the other rogues (who hadn't already been beaten and captured) began to anxiously step back as the Rising Sun knights glared at them before with their tails between their legs they fled in fear like the mice they were.
"We...We did it." Sanae murmured.
"WE WON!" Johan cheered punching the air.
"THE DAY IS OURS!" Magnus roared.
"OH YEAH! NO ONE CAN STAND THE HEAT OF THE SUN!" Gozer hollered.
"Those punks won't be troubling us anytime soon." Jinmay grinned.
"We owe you our thanks as well, Alexia." Tundra thanked her. "You really helped us out."
"Oh it was nothing." Alexia blushed. "I was just..."
"You were worried about me weren't you~?" Jerome smirked making her blush grow deeper.
"I-I was not!"
"Oh really? And yet you came to a battle just to see me."
"I wanted to help all of you!"
"Yet you stayed with me."
"You told me to!"
"What did I say about getting a room?" Johan interrupted.
"Look I'm sorry I was just teasing you." Jerome apologised.
"I know. Though that is to be expected of you." Alexia smiled.
"Really, thank a lot for backing me up. It meant a lot."
"There's only room for one riffraff mutt in my life." Jerome chuckled at her compliment and smiled at her which she returned.
"Ok you two, save the spit-swapping for after we get home. We've got a big haul to brign in and you're helping." Mganu pointed at Alexia as the others had began leaving with the captured rogues in tow.
"M-ME?! I'm not laying my paws on those urchins!"
"Aww afraid they might bite?" Jerome laughed as he began dragging the Typhlosion. "I understand if you're scared, Princess."
"OH! I'll show you who's scared!" Alexia retorted back grabbing a criminal of her own as the two continued to bicker with the others following behind with amused smiles. It was plain as day that those Arcanine had a future ahead of them. One full of adventure, glory...and two children.
~~~Back to the Present~~~
"Wow, so that's how you met Mum?" Alexis asked.
"That's right. As you heard we didn't exactly get along at first." Jerome grinned sheepishly.
"So...what happened then?" Damien asked. "It sounds like you all had it made so why did you leave?" the Grand Masters and Elites downcast their eyes solemnly as their faces turned remorseful.
"It was nearly eighteen years ago," Johan began. "where everything began to go wrong."
~~~18 Years Ago...~~~
About fourteen years had passed since Jerome and Alexia met, as well the battle that had resulted in Johan and Magnus' complete evolution and needless to say a few big events had occurred between then and now. For starters Jerome and Alexia had gotten married and had their son, Damien a shiny little Growlithe whom all their friends came to adore almost instantly, though Tundra thought it best to be on his guard in case the pup had any accidental flamethrowers while he was babysitting him. Speaking of which, the Snover along with Johan and Magnus' other comrades, with the exception of Athena, had evolved; Tundra had become an Abomasnow, Gozer a Gengar, cutter a Ninjask and Sanae a Gardevoir, making them one of the strongest troops of knights of the Rising Sun's current generation. Magnus and Johan had been doing well also, the latter having married his sweetheart Jinmay who was now a Blaziken. But the biggest change that had come about was that Jerome had been appointed as the new Grand Master after Marcus retired a year ago and he was shaping up to be a fine leader for the Rising Sun with Johan, Magnus and Victor serving as his Vices.
As of now, the Arcanine was training some new recruits to the Order. He paced back and forth as he observed the youngsters' progress handing out the occasional encouragement or compliment.
"Nice work, there. Hold that posture. Excellent." he smiled at the childrens' progress when he turned to see Johan approaching him and sitting atop his head was little Damien who was fast asleep in the Electivire's fuzz. Jerome chuckled at the sight.
"I take it Damien behaved himself?"
"Good as his golden fur." Johan smiled. "And it looks like the training's going well. You lot'll be knights in no time at this rate."
"Thanks Master Johan~!" the kids replied with a bow.
"So what can I do for you, Joe?" Jerome asked. Johan furrowed his brow slightly before leaning close to the Grand Master so he could whisper.
"Jinmay and Sanae have called a meeting. Victor's returned from his latest mission...and he's brought some pretty bad news." Jerome's expression hardened before he nodded and turned to the kids.
"Keep up the good work, you lot. I'll have Tundra monitor you in my place." he said before following Johan.
XXX
After dropping off Damien with Alexia, the two knights made their way to the war room where Magnus, Jinmay, Sanae, Cutter, Gozer, Athena and Victor were waiting.
"What news have you brought, Victor?" Jerome asked. The Houndoom frowned before he placed a figurine of a Garchomp on the map in the center of the room.
"This Garchomp is a highly wanted criminal known as Midnight. He's been in hiding for quite some time but on my mission I picked up word that he's been putting together an army of rogues and is due to attack Pyrus any day now. Many of his followers are very dangerous and bloodthirsty so this will be nothing like the battle we fought in where Johan and Magnus evolved. We're dealing with first class killers this time." Jerome glared at the figurine as Jinmay spoke.
"The defense will consist of ourselves along with Tundra plus a troop of our higher knights."
"Good. We head out to meet the enemy at first light tomorrow." Jerome replied as the group left the war room quietly to prepare.
"Sure feels like deja vu don't it?" Johan asked Jerome as he walked beside him. "Last time we were in a battle like that we wouldn't've made it out if Mag and I hadn't evolved."
"That may have been back then but we've all grown stronger since then, Joe." Jerome reassured his vice. "We've protected Pyrus for fourteen years and we won't waver now."
"Damn straight, brother. Let's show these rogues what happens when they get to close to sun."
XXX
And so the next day arrived and the Grand Master led his battalion away from Cynderstohn, leaving Alexia in charge since she had Damien to care for (as well as the egg she was soon to lay ). Jerome led the troop atop his shiny Rapidash while the the vices rode behind him, though Johan and Magnus were so big they had to ride stronger species for the trip. The former was on his Mudsdale, Altivo while the latter had his Gogoat, Gaia.
"How much further, Victor?" Jerome asked over his shoulder to the Houndoom.
"Not far. We should intercept Midnight and his army anytime now." But as they rode a little further something purple struck one of the knights, a Machoke, knocking him from his steed which whinnied in fright from the sudden attack. The others turned their heads to see a swarm of poison stingers raining towards them. Acting fast, Sanae conjured a large force field to shield the battalion from the stingers just as the enemy forces emerged from across the clearing lead by a fierce looking Garchomp; Midnight. Jerome stared him down before he looked to his comrades who wore the same expressions as him.
"Fight valiantly and defend your country. If we die, we die with honor." the others nodded before Jerome drew his sword which became engulfed in flames. "CHARGE!" with that the two armies barreled towards each other, weapons brandished and voices roaring into battle until the two groups collided. All manner of attacks flew as the opposing forces grappled. The rogues couldn't keep up with Cutter as the Ninjask's lightning speed helped him doge their attacks effortlessly as he countered with bug buzz. Johan and Magnus uprooted the ground with their thunder and lava blasting any who got in their way. The battle raged on for hours and both sides weren't without casualties until the Rising Sun began to near victory as Jerome was currently locked in combat with Midnight the two of them bruised and battered.
"Face it! You may have had more in numbers but it's wasted if you don't have what it takes to lead them!" the Arcanine snarled. POW! He struck the Garchomp across the face with a fire punch before following up with a hyper beam which knocked him out cold.
"HE DID IT!" Joahn roared.
"THE DAY IS OURS!" Magnus cheered with his comrades in victory as the remaining rogues laid down their arms after seeing their leader beaten. But as the troop began rounding up the criminals Jinmay spotted a Seviper who appeared to be trembling in fear.
"You there!" the Blaziken spoke up causing the snake to flinch when he noticed her.
"Please! Help me, I'm not one of them!" he said as he timidly approached her. " My name is aster, I'm a slave! One of those monsters bought from the black market and dragged me here. I was just a Pokemon shield to them! Please don't lock me up with the rest of them, I just wanna be free!" Jinmay looked at the poison type with sympathy before she reached out to him.
"It's alright, you're free now. Just come with us." she smiled but then in the blink of an eye Aster lunged at her ensnaring her in his coils before she could retaliate.
"Jinny!" Johan shouted as he began to run toward her.
"You knights are so predictable." Aster grinned wickedly at Jinmay. "You say mercy is a strength but all it will lead to in the end...is death." And with that, he sunk his long red fangs into her neck.
"JINMAY!" Johan screamed as the Blaziken fell to the ground after the Seviper released her until he was punched by Magnus who wrestled him into submission while Johan ran to Jinmay who was coughing blood.
"Jinmay! Jinmay look at me, don't take your eyes off me!" he panicked as he saw the bite was bleeding very fast and heavy and a sickly purple hue was crossing over her face as the venom was already penetrating her.
"Johan..." she whispered. "It's...so dark...where are you?"
"I'm right here! I'm here, Jinny! Hear my voice! Can you feel my hand?!" Johan grasped her hand tight and refused to let go.
"Joey, I feel tired..."
"No don't fall asleep! Don't-oh Arceus-MEDIC! MEDIC!" Johan shouted but no reply came as he held his dying loved one in his arms. Magnus and Jerome could only look on in horror, their guts filling with the inevitable feeling of truth.
"Jinny it's ok. You're gonna be ok. We're on our way back home. We're going back together; you and me." Johan muttered desperately as the Blaziken's eyes grew heavier.
"I love you..." she whispered.
"I love you too!" Johan shouted. "You know that! Why are you saying it like that?!"
"I...I don't think-"
"No don't say it! Don't you dare say it! You're not dying on me!" Johan said desperately trying to keep Jinmay awake, but her eyes only grew heavier with every second...and her body fell limp in his arms causing a sharp gasp to escape his throat.
"Jinmay?...Jinmay?! Jinny look at me!" he screamed as tears spilled from his eyes.
"It's no use, Electivire." Aster hissed wickedly beneath Magnus. "She's bug food now."
"RAAAAAAAAAAAAAGH!" Johan roared as he whirled round and seized the snake from Magnus and began to beat him mercilessly despite the laughter he was receiving form it through his punches.
"Joe! Joe stop you'll kill him!" Jerome shouted as he and Magnus tried to pull him away.
"That's the idea!" Johan roared back until he felt a gentle hand on his shoulder which tore his gaze away from Aster's beaten face to see Sanae looking at him as her tear filled eyes glowed blue causing his own to roll back before he collapsed.
"I'm sorry, Johan." she whispered through her sobs as the other knights converged on the scene their hearts heavy from the sight of their fallen comrade. "I'm so sorry."
XXX
~~~3 Months Later...~~~
Jinmay's death, was terrible tragedy for the Order. Not only had they lost one of heir strongest knights, but one of their dear friends as well. She was given a proper send off as everyone mourned her loss, though Johan refused to leave her grave after the funeral as he sat by it, sobbing and holding it as though the cold stone slab were her own body.
But as time rolled by, and the Order began to slowly move on from her loss, they noticed that the Electivire was showing no signs of recovering from losing his wife. He barely ate or slept and hardly socialised with the others like he used to. Instead he would often head off to the local tavern and drink himself sick to numb the pain in his heart. He began to neglect his duties often leaving the younger knights to train on their own while on missions he'd capture the targets by himself with extreme force and never stuck around to let the villagers thank him. And worst of all, he hardly noticed Damien, often blowing the pup off whenever he tried to play with him or talk to him and it both confused and hurt the little Growlithe as he couldn't understand why. Needless to say everyone was greatly worried about their friend/brother/uncle and they'd tried nearly everything to get him back to his old self but nothing had worked. Though little did they know that one meeting in particular would set off a chain of events that would lead the three brothers down their future paths.
Jerome had called a meeting to discuss the prisoners they'd taken from the battle against Midnight as their holding cells were starting to run low. The Grand Master along with Alexia, Victor, Magnus and the Elite Five were present and awaiting Johan.
"Do you think he'll show?" Gozer asked Athena who looked at the Gengar with uncertainty.
"I can't say. With the way he's been I wouldn't be surprised if he doesn't." but the group got their answer as the door burst open revealing a horrible frazzled Johan, his fur was unkempt and shaggy and his eyes were heavy and dark from lack of sleep plus a half empty bottle of liquor was clutched in his palm as he trudged towards the group.
"So what's all this about the prisoners?" he slurred. Despite his discomforting appearance, Jerome hesitantly began the meeting.
"As you know, we brought back many prisoners from the war against Midnight. He himself is to remain here as we can't allow him to rally another attack. His underlings however, are a different story."
"What are you saying?" Victor asked.
"I'm saying we can't keep them all locked up or we won't have any room for more dangerous felons and we don't have the means to transport them to a larger prison.
"So what do we do with them?" Tundra inquired.
"I believe the best course of action would be to rehabilitate and release them. It's always been our way to lead the dark back tot he light, hence our name. many of Midnight's followers were desperate criminals looking for a way out of the holes they'd ended up in. if we help them I'm sure they won't return tot he criminal ways. They might even join our ranks."
"...And what of Aster?" Johan spoke up darkly which sent a chill through the room. "Do you intend to free my Wife's murderer as well?"
"No. He's far too dangerous. He's to remain here in prison with Midnight." Jerome answered.
"Why? Why should he get to live after all the lives he's taken without a second thought." Johan asked. "Do you think leaving him in a little dark cell is gonna magically make him good again?"
"Of course not but-"
"I say execute him." everyone gasped.
"Johan you know that isn't our way!" Alexia shouted.
"But it's fine if we die and they don't?!"
"Joe you misunderstand-"
"Oh no I understand!" Johan cut Jerome off. "You'd rather let him live for taking her from me than send him to hell where he belongs! I'm done here." he finished before draining the bottle and smashing it on the floor as he turned his back on the group and stormed out before anyone could stop him. As he made his way back to his room he looked down when he felt something small and fluffy climbing his leg to see it was Damien grinning up at him.
"Uncle Joe! Uncle Joe you'll never guess!" he laughed as he climbed up to reach Johan's head. "I was babysitting Mama's egg and it moved!"
"Is that so?" Johan muttered uninterested though Damien didn't notice as he continued.
"I could feel her heartbeat through the shell and I think I even heard her bark."
"Damien now really isn't the time." Johan said as he lifted the pup down from his head. "I'm not feeling too well, run along."
"But you haven't played with me for ages. I don't think I've even seen you smile."
"It's hard to explain." Johan replied as he began to walk away when he felt a tug on one of his tails and looked back to see Damien hanging onto one. "Let go, Damien."
"Please come play with me. Or why don't you come see the egg? I bet she'd love to meet her Uncle."
"I'm not in the moo-"
"I know you'll be a great Uncle to her just like I'll be a great Big Brother to her."
"Damien-"
"She'll be so happy when she meets us both and then she'll be a knight just I'll be just like you."
"Stop-"
"I just can't wait to be a Big Brother!"
"SHUT UP!" Johan snapped causing Damien to leap back in fright as the Electivier glared at him though his expression soon regressed into a sad frown when he saw Jerome standing not too far away form them. "I'm sorry." he murmured before walking away leaving Damien alone how began to sniffle as his Father approached him from behind.
"Daddy?" he whimpered. "What's happened to Uncle Joey?"
"...He's suffering, Damien. When you lose someone you love, it can take a toll on you. One that can take a long time to recover from."
"I want him back." Damien cried as Jerome pulled him into a hug. "I want..I-I want my Uncle back."
"So do I, Son."
XXX
Johan sat quietly in the dark of his room as he stared at Jinmay's wedding ring which he'd obtained before she was buried. He looked at the golden band before he gripped it tightly in his fist as he his eyes turned hard and cold. He made his way through the castle and soon he reached the entrance to the dungeons but upon arriving he found Magnus posted there.
"I know why you're here, Joe." he said.
"Then you know it's pointless to try and stop me, Mag."
"I'm not going to stop you."
"You're...you're not?"
"No. Frankly I don't agree with Jerome's decision either. After what that serpent did to our family I wouldn't let him live if it were up to me. That creature has no hope of redemption and I doubt he even wants to be after all the lives he's taken. Go. Avenge Jinny, I won't stop you."
"Thank you, Brother." Johan grasped Magnus' shoulder thankfully as she carried on as Magnus remained at his post sighing heavily as though a weight had been lifted from his shoulders.
XXX
(A.N. Brace yourselves people, this is gonna get really violent.)
Johan quietly made his way down the corridors of the dungeons though every step he took radiated hate and darkness. He trudged passed cell after cell until he stopped at the one marked '39' in which Aster was coiled up asleep. Johan glared piercingly at the snake before he pounded his fist loudly against the bars, waking the Seviper from his slumber.
"You." he hissed despite the look Johan was giving him as the Electivire gripped the bars of the cell and with a grunt, he bent them open and stepped through the hole before bending the bars closed behind him with his tails. "What are you doing?" the Seviper asked beginning to sound intimidated. Johan didn't reply until he seized the snake by the throat and pinned him to the wall.
"...Die, now." he rasped before he tightly gripped one of Aster's long fangs. SNAP!
"AAAAAAAAAAAAAUUUUGH!" the snake roared as his tooth was snapped off like a twig before Johan grabbed the other fang and broke it as well, blood spraying from the canals and spattering across his yellow fur.
XXX
Magnus flinched when he heard the scream echo from the dungeon but didn't falter as he remained posted at the entrance. But at that moment Jerome entered the hallway and walked up to him.
"Mag. Have you seen Joe? I need to speak with him." the Arcanine said. "I fear he's getting worse over Jinmay's death and I can't let him do anything rash." Magnus closed his eyes solemnly before slowly opening them a moment later.
"...You're too late, Jerry. That snake is a dead mon." Jerome's eyes widened in horror before he heard the faint echo of a striking fist and a cry of agony.
"No...he wouldn't!" he barked before he ran passed Magnus who made no attempt to stop him. He didn't need to, knowing Jerome wouldn't get there in time.
"There's no turning back for us now, Johan." he murmured.
XXX
POW! KRRK! WHAM! SPLOCK!
Johan punched the Seviper back and forth across the face staining his knuckles more and more with the snake's blood as he pulverised the Pokemon like a steak.
"Now you see yourself for what you truly are! A mere toothless worm!" he demeaned the poison type who despite the pain he was now in, managed to strike the Electivire with a poison tail knocking him off as he tried to slither away.
"Where do you think you're going, little worm?!" Johan asked as he grabbed the snake's tail and dragged him to the cell door where he tied it to the bars, an audible CRACK sounded as a section of spine was snapped clean in two from the knot sending the Seviper into further suffering before Johan pinned him under his weight and grabbed his head.
"This is for you, Jinmay." he said before he began to squeeze the snake's skull as the screams that came from his toothless mouth made every prisoner in the dungeon tremble with fear. Not too far down the hall Jerome was running as fast as he could, the screams growing louder and louder.
"JOHAN! JOHAN DON'T DO IT!" he roared in the hopes his brother would hear his plea, but he only reached the cell in time to witness a horrible sight.
KLUNCH! The Seviper's head was crushed like an egg between Johan's hands, blood and gore splattering everywhere, staining the walls and ceiling, and as Jerome looked at the ghastly scene before him he whispered one question to Johan's back.
"...What have you done, Joe?" the Electivire slowly turned to show his face to Jerome, a satisfied yet darkened look in his eyes.
"Our first execution."
XXX
Johan now stood in the war room facing Jerome who had Alexia, Victor and the Elite Five standing at his side while Magnus stood beside Johan, the latter wearing an emotionless frown.
"Vice Knight Johan. You stand before us charged with the murder of a war prisoner. As you know, Knights of the Rising Sun are forbidden to kill and yet you have forsaken that oath. You are to be demoted to a standard knight and to remain off duty until further notice." Jerome stated but Johan's frown only turned darker.
"Go ahead, punish me! But I won't apologise for killing the beast who murdered my Jinny! Never! I don't feel a shred of guilt for my actions!"
"Joe. It's always been our way to guide the wicked back to the light. That's why we're called the Rising Sun." Jerome reasoned.
"That may be true. There are those who can be changed. But you're a fool if you don't realize that there are also those who can never be changed. There're Pokemon in this world who need to be killed or else they'll kill us and all we love! That snake was responsible for murdering countless innocents, not just my beloved and yet you still follow your preconceived notion that there's no such thing as pure evil in this world!" Johan glared at Jerome who glared back at him though out of pity.
"The fact remains that you broke the code. A life can never be given back-"
"JUST SHUT YOUR DAMN MOUTH! What if it was Alexia who died?!" Jerome gasped. "Would you stick to your code then?! Would you let the Pokemon who murdered her go on living knowing they'd killed many innocents in life including her?! Well, WOULD YOU?!" Jerome stared at the Electivire and then to his wife who was in equal shock but he couldn't make a reply.
"I knew it." Johan spat as he looked between his Grand Master, Magnus, Victor, Alexia, his squad before he finally spoke in a dark tone. "Forget the demotion, Jerry. I'll do you better." the Electivire then began to reach for his badge. RRIP! Everyone gasped as Johan tore the badge from his uniform and placed it gently on the table's surface though it still echoed throughout the hall.
"Grand Master Jerome Cliffton. I'm leaving the Order of the Rising Sun...forever." And then he walked away, without another word leaving every Pokemon in the room shocked. Even Victor couldn't believe what he'd just witnessed. Magnus stared at his brother's back, turning to Jerome who was at a loss for words before the Magmortar began to follow the Electivire in a panic.
"Johan! Johan wait! Come back!" Alexia had her paw on her mouth and was trembling and looked at her Husband who couldn't tear his eyes away from the Vice Master badge which lay before him only now it no longer appeared to be a symbol of pride and loyalty...it was now the mark, of a broken bond.
XXX
"Johan! Johan wait!" the Electivire trudged down the dark hallways of the castle paying no heed to Magnus who was trying desperately to get him to turn around. "Jerome doesn't want you to leave! He just didn't approve of your decision."
"It's too late for me, Magnus. I can't stay here anymore."
"You'll work your way back up. It's not like you killed a civilian or anything. You'll be a Vice again in no time, I know it!"
"That isn't the reason."
"Then why?! Why leave the Order you worked so hard to be a part of just because you killed a rogue?!"
"BECAUSE I'D DO IT AGAIN!" Johan wheeled round to shout at Magnus. "I would kill more like Aster without hesitation. When I killed him it didn't just feel like I'd avenged Jinmay...it felt right. Like I'd saved hundreds of lives he'd take in the future. And that I'd put all the lives he'd taken to rest. I can't be a part of the Rising Sun any longer. Not now that I have this desire to purge the evil from this world by fiercer means. I'd only be a bad influence on the young ones if I stayed here, and I won't do that to them...especially to Damien. I'm sorry, Mag, I can't stay. Cynderstohn is no longer my home." the two stood in silence as Magnus stared at his Brother with deep concern yet understanding.
"...Where will you go?" he finally asked quietly.
"I don't know. Maybe west? I'm going to seek out other Pokemon like me. Those who are willing to kill Pokemon guilty of truly irredeemable crimes. Not petty criminals or bandits, only mass killers with no hope of being led back into the light by Jerome. I'll start an order of my own design."
"...I'm going with you."
"No Magnus-"
"I'm just as guilty. I let you kill Aster when I had the chance to stop you and the strength to do so. I see the reason behind why you did it, and I agree with it. There is pure evil in this world that can never be brought to light...and it must be destroyed before it sheds the blood of the innocent. Besides, you'll need help to start this Order."
"You're sure you want in on this?"
"I'm certain of it. This world needs a necessary evil to purge it of the wicked. And it looks like it has to be us."
"Thank you...thank you for standing by me." Johan thanked Magnus as the two carried on towards their quarters to begin packing, failing to notices a pair of red eyes watching them from the shadows.
XXX
"They're doing what?!"
"It's true."
"But being in the Rising Sun was their dream."
"Not anymore it seems." It is revealed that Gozer was the one watching the Brothers and the Gengar had informed the other members of the Elite Five of their decision.
"But they can't make it out there on their own! They have no where to go!" Athena panicked.
"They can't just leave us behind! They're our Captains!" Tundra thundered.
"Are you saying we should go with them?" Cutter buzzed. "What about the Order? We'd be abandoning them."
"The only reason we're where we are is because of Johan and Magnus." Sanae spoke up. "They trained us to be strong and enduring. As such, we pledged ourselves to them as their knights. Jerome may be a fine Grand Master, but I will follow Johan no matter what. If he's to walk a different path, I can't allow this new darkness within him to consume him. He'll need us as well as Magnus to guide him."
"...You're right. It brings me no pleasure, but for the sake of the Captains we must." Gozer agreed as the others bowed their heads solemnly for the decision they'd come to.
XXX
Johan and Magnus had just finished packing what little they'd be bringing with them when they found the Elite Five waiting for them, and holding bags of their own.
"Guys?" Johan queried.
"We know everything, Cap'n." Gozer said. "And we're coming too."
"No! It was already hard enough to let Magnus come but you guys aren't even guilty! You have no reason to leave!"
"No reason?!" Sanae questioned. "We've only become this strong because of the two of you and we're not about to let you just go running off into the blue like that! Not without us!"
"She's right! We're a team, Joe!" said Athena.
"And your friends!" Tundra added. "If you really do intend on forming your own Order then you're gonna need our help!" Johan and Magnus looked at each other before they sighed.
"I can't guarantee we'll succeed." the former cautioned.
"We know that." Sanae replied. "All the more reason for us to come with you so you'll have a better chance."
"Hmmhmm, you've got an answer for everything, Sanae." Johan chuckled bitterly to which the Gardevoir smiled back. "You're absolutely sure about this? There'll be no turning back."
"We've made up our minds." Cutter said while the others nodded. But just as the group were about to make their way to the castle entrance a voice stopped them.
"Where are you going?" they looked back to see Jerome standing there with Alexia and Damien at his side, the latter looking both confused and upset. "You can't be serious about this."
"...We are, Jerome. I only wanted it to be me but the others insisted. What right do I have to deny them?" Johan said. "What right do you have?"
"You think I'm just going to stand by and watch my friends, my brothers, throw their lives away like this?!" Jerome questioned.
"Why? Why are you leaving, Uncle Joe? Uncle Mag? Everyone?" Damien asked to which the others looked away sadly.
"This is something we have to do, Damien. We can't follow the Rising Sun anymore. Things have changed." Magnus replied. "You'll understand when you're older."
"No!" Jerome slammed his paw to the ground startling everyone. "I won't let you leave!"
"You can't force us to stay!" Johan shouted back. "If you did we'd be no more than those prisoners! Any knight can leave the Order if they choose to!"
"You aren't just knights! You're my family! And I won't lose you to this madness!"
"...And just how are you going to stop us?" Gozer murmured. "You're outnumbered."
"Is that a threat?!"
"Only if you try to keep us here against our will." Sanae verified.
"Now stop! There's no reason for us to fight!" Alexia spoke up.
"No. There is actually." Johan said before he held his fist outward. "Jerome Cliffton...I challenge you to a duel!" Everyone went silent as Jerome's eyes widened and his glare hardened. "If I lose we'll stay, but if I beat you...you have to let us leave and can have no further say in what we do. I'll be waiting outside for you." with that he turned around and carried on towards the front courtyard with the others following him while Jerome stayed where he was, still as stone.
"Jerry...you can't possibly be considering this." Alexia worried.
"...If it's the only way to get them to stay, what choice do I have?"
XXX
The two brothers stood before each other, outside, as the wind blew harshly, the moon shining overhead, while Magnus, the Elite Five, Alexia and Damien sat on the sidelines. Jerome and Johan stared each other down with cold eyes.
"This is your last chance, Jer. Just let us go and neither of us have to get hurt." Johan cautioned.
"If beating some sense into you is what will convince you to stay then so be it." the Electivire sighed.
"This was you choice. Never forget that." he said before he began to whirl his cables rapidly churning electricity through his body until his entire figure was engulfed in a cloud of blue lightning before he shot towards Jerome with a battle cry. The Arcanine countered by cloaking himself in fire and charging at Johan as the two attacks struck leaving them locked in combat. Everyone watched as the two growled battling for dominance but at that moment Jerome began to feel his hind legs sliding back and his eyes widened before Johan let out a mighty roar and with a burst of lighting overpowered Jerome and rammed him into the castle wall. The onlookers gasped as Johan pulled away revealing the Arcanine embedded in the crater he'd made int he wall coughing blood from the impact. The Electivire himself hissed in pain form the attack but stayed up.
"What you have a in speed, I have in strength." he stated as Jerome pulled himself out of the wall and landed on his feet panting.
"Why, Joe?" he asked before he struck his brother int he face with a flaming punch. "Why have you forsaken Master Marcus' teachings?!" he followed up with another strike pushing Johan back. "Why turn your back on the Order we worked so hard to get to?! And why?! HOW could you raise your voice to Damien?!" he threw another punch at Johan only for this one to be caught by his massive hand as the electric type glared at him.
"I'm not ungrateful for what Marcus has taught me. But what happened to my wife convinced me that there is horrific, ugly evil in this world and it must be purged. But this Order isn't the one to do it. As you say it's not the way. That's why I can't stay any longer. HEYA!" WHAM! he swung Jerome over his shoulder and into the ground. "And I apologise for snapping at Damien. I was drunk and depressed and he didn't deserve it." FWOOOOOOOSH! A stream of fire hit him int he face as Jerome got up and tackled him, sinking his fangs into his shoulder earning a scream as the wound burned from the fiery bite.
"Stay down!" Johan shouted as he threw the hound off. "Don't make me do some damage you won't walk away from!" he added before he began to shoot thunderbolts at the Arcanine. KZZZT! ZZZZZT! KRAZZZZT! Jerome dodged them rapidly with his quick agility before the two came to a standstill. Silence hung in the air for a few moments before Jerome spoke.
"I'm ending this now, Joe, and all of you are staying!" he barked before he charged at Johan as a cloak of light purple energy with swirling streaks of yellow surrounded his body. The Electivire stood his ground before he raised his hand and pointed to the heavens and a tremendous thunderbolt came raining down from the sky as it struck him shrouding him in its fierce lighting before he too charged at Jerome roaring as they collided. KABOOOOOOM! The impact sent out a blast of lightning and energy sending all the onlookers rolling away from the blow back and as the dust settled they saw both Johan and Jerome lying on the ground a meters away from one another, both vastly scathed by each others attacks.
Jerome panted heavily as he struggled to stand, his knees trembling and his breath ragged from the aftershock of the giga impact, but as he finally got to his feet and looked up he gasped to see Johan, though heavily beaten and fatigued, was standing right before him, his eyes shadowed. The Electivire didn't crack his face as his two cables ensnared Jerome, one round his waist and the second round his neck, and lifted him into the air so they were at eye level. Johan then raised his fists, one shrouded in thunder, the other glowing a light blue before he slammed them together fusing both attacks into each fist before holding them in front of Jerome's chest.
"...I'm sorry, Brother." he murmured as he closed his eyes...and attacked. BWAM! With the force of a cannon and the speed of a lightning bolt, Johan slammed his fists into Jerome's gut. The combined speed and force of the impact, coupled with the lighting and focus energy sent a tremendous and literal shock wave through the Arcanine who could barley make a sound from the pain as he let out a strangled gasp, along with a mouthful of blood, before Johan released his grip and let him fall to the ground. But this time, he didn't stand.
"DAAAD!" Damien cried.
"JEROME!" Alexia screamed as Johan fell to his knees, exhausted, with a solemn look on his face.
"...You should've just let me kill him on the battlefield. No one ever cared about that snake. He never had a prayer after all the lives he'd taken, including Jinny. It was only a matter of time before he got what was coming to him. I just wish it wasn't from me. But now it's too late."
"It's-AHACK!-never too late..." Jerome tried to reason as Johan pulled him into a sad embrace and whispered in his ear making Jerome gasp before he gently laid him on the ground and stood before he began to slowly walk away, a slight limp in his step. "Goodbye, Jerome. I'm sorry it went this way."
(A.N. Cue 'If You Live' from One Piece OST)
"Let's go." Magnus said to the others as the seven of them mounted their steeds and began to ride out of the courtyard. But as they were, Damien sat by his Father's side, tears streaming from his eyes. Only these ones were not just of sadness, but anger as well. How? How could his Father, the Grand Master, lose?! And to his second in command at that?! Why would Johan and Magnus turn their backs on the Rising Sun? Only a traitor would do such a thing.
"Traitors..." he murmured as he glared at their backs before he shouted at the top of his lungs. "YOU TRAITORS! I HATE YOU ALL! I HOPE I NEVER SEE YOU EVER AGAIN!" he screamed at them despite the tears on his face. The others felt their hearts ache from the child's words but didn't look back as tears of their own began fall from their eyes.
"It's too much..." Johan bit his lip.
"You can't doubt yourself now, Joe." Magnus replied. "If you do we'll fall apart." he glanced at the Elite five who were doing their best to quieten their sobbing before he continued. "Let's follow through and head west. You know as well as me...that after tonight, we can never return to Cynderstohn again." he flinched at the sound of a sob and looked to see Johan gritting his teeth with his hand over his eyes, though the tear tracks glistening on the fur of his cheeks gave him away, just as they did on Jerome who remained on the courtyard ground, his own tears forming a small puddle at his head.
~~~Back to the Present~~~
"And kids...that's the end of the story." Johan concluded as he wiped his eyes with his thumb. All around him and Magnus every Pokemon in the room was crying. Some like Alexis and Daniel and Team Monkeybone were sobbing on each others shoulders, while others like Damien and Jerome simply had tears on their faces. Even the Elite Five couldn't hold back their tears from the memory of the event.
"That's-Hic!-such a sad story." Alexis sniffled before she felt Magnus' hand on her head as the Magmortar pet her gently.
"Maybe so. But look what it lead to. After all these years, our Family's reunited at last, and with new members too." the Growlithe sniffed her runny nose before a smile spread across her face.
"...Uncle Joe? Uncle Mag?" the two Masters looked up in surprise to see Damien had addressed them. "I...I understand why you killed that rogue who took Aunt Jinmay...but I don't understand why that made you leave. What was it you whispered to Dad? Why did you leave? I know it wasn't just because of this Order." Johan looked at Jerome who nodded before he answered.
"The reason Magnus and I left...was to spare you, Damien. You and the children of the Rising Sun."
"Spare me? From what? And why?"
"When I avenged your Aunt, it felt good. Good because I'd made so she didn't die for nothing. Good because I'd saved countless lives that serpent might have taken in the future. And good because it truly felt like I'd removed a small part of evil form this world...but that isn't the way of the Rising Sun. that desire I felt way back then was sickening compared to how I use it now. It felt like an addiction back then and I was wanted to kill again, to hunt down more rogues like Aster and execute them. That isn't how a knight of the Rising Sun is, so imagine what would've become of it if I stayed and let my ideals leak to young knights like you eager to learn?" Damien gasped.
"Johan and I both may be wiser now than we were then, but we both knew we couldn't allow our new drive to corrupt the younger generation. So we left to spare you and children form ending up like us. Savages with an uncontrollable blood-lust." Magnus explained.
"And as to what i said to your Father." Johan continued. "'Take care of Damien and your future daughter. Raise them to be strong, valiant, selfless, wise and brave. And never let them doubt themselves, or fall into despair as I did. Do that, and they'll both be damn finer knights than Mag or I ever hoped or could.'" Jerome smiled as Alexis and Damien stared at each other and then to Johan who smiled at them with great pride. "And he succeeded." Alexis whimpered before she bounded over to him and leapt onto his chest nuzzling his fur and the next moment Damien was Hugging him too, his tears soaking into Johan's shoulder as Magnus embraced the two of them as well in a group hug.
"I missed you." Damien sniffed. "Even though I said I hated you I still missed you."
"And we you, son." Magnus smiled before Jerome cleared his throat.
"Now then, why don't we all head back to the Silent Mouth. I believe it's still the grand opening."
"YEAH!"
XXX
And so it was, everyone returned to the guild to celebrate not only the new building, but also the mended unity between the three Brothers. The party lasted all throughout the day as Alexis, Daniel and Damien made merry with Team Monkeybone and the other members of First Squad until at last it was time for the Knights to return home to Pyrus.
"I'm so glad I got to meet you guys!" Alexis beamed as she finished hugging the last of the group (Peri) "You may not be Kngihts but you're just as awesome!"
"The feelings mutual Dame Barksalot." Fletcher grinned.
"I just wish we could stay a little longer. I like this place." Daniel sulked.
"Hey, you'll see us again. You're coming back for the Spring festival after all." Twig reminded them.
"Yeah, I'll be sure to make lots of my Pokepuffs next time you visit." Amy promised making Alexia lick her chops.
"And besides, we'll come and visit you guys as well." Caesar added.
"You bet! I wanna learn all there is to know about being a knight!" Hugo buzzed eagerly.
"Well I suppose you best be off. You have quite a journey back home." Johan said to Jerome who nodded before he said.
"Oh I almost forgot. I have something for the two of you. Close your eyes." the two Pokemon glanced at each other before they shrugged and shut their eyes and Jerome did something quickly. "Alright. Open them." Johan and Magnus opened their eyes before they looked gasped and pointed at each other.
"Your chest!" they said. "On your shirt!" both glanced down and gasped again to see, attached to their breast pocket...were their old Vice Master badges.
"That way, even though we walk different paths now, these badges my sign of our Brotherhood, just like that sake was back then. Your Order is one of Twilight. You wield the darkness, but follow the light." Johan and Magnus gently touched the badges before they lunged forward and pulled Jerome into a loving hug. "I love you guys."
"We love you too, Jer." Johan laughed through his tears as he and Magnus let him go and watched as he went to join his children and Daniel.
"BYE!" Alexis waved. "SEE YOU SOON!"
"COME VISIT US IN CYNDERSTOHN!" Daniel invited.
"DON'T BE STRANGERS NOW YOU HEAR?!" Damien called.
"WE WILL MEET AGAIN! FAREWELL!" Jerome grinned as they left for Pyrus.
"TIL THE NEXT TIME!" Twig called back as the assassins and thieves waved goodbye to the knights. Though one Order lives under the sun and other in the shade, both never lose sight of the shining light that guides them both to protect this world from the darkness.
The Journey Continues...
