The True You

by Axathr

A remixed fanfic in honor of Ryker. For those of you who are new, read Light In My Darkness to better understand the main characters. Story won't be a simple rewrite, but will take place in different arcs (so if you like long stories with slightly long chapters, here you go) and the plot will be as unique as possible from LIMD's plot. Rated M for blood, gore, and explicit language.

6. Chapter 6

XD Sorry guys if you got the email that we posted a new chapter and checked only to see that it wasn't there. We accidentally posted it before leaving our notes and NAMING the chapter! Anyway, told you guys that this chapter would come out soon to make up for our lateness. So this chapter won't be as...developing? as the last chapter, but it will reveal some things. It's slightly shorter than usual too so sorry for those who prefer longer chapters XD

We have no spotlight-ed fanfic of the week this week, we haven't gotten to reading anything so we're sorry if you wanted to see what we thought would be something great to read into.

Shoutouts to YourTypicalReader for favoriting/following/adding!

On to the chapter now. Read, review (if you'd like), and enjoy! Also, we don't mind criticism or flames so whatever thoughts you have on the fanfic so far, just pm or leave it in a review for us! We read every single one we get!

Chapter 6: So what now?

With Roxanne…

"You think they're alright?" Roxanne asked them, reaching out to touch the dirt wall before her. It was supposed to be the entrance of the cave, but the illusion made it look otherwise as if there were no way to get inside. Behind her, Hugh and Oculus were seated against the wall. Rift was finally awake, though he found that it was a struggle to move around so like the other two, he kept to the cave wall.

"I'm sure they are." Hugh answered.

"Yeah, it's two against one Legendary, right? They'll be back." Oculus agreed, Roxanne almost forgetting that she had her translator on.

"Yeah…" Roxanne clenched her fist, her other hand occupied with rubbing some strands of her hair as an act of nervousness. "It just sucks that we can't do anything! All that training we've had so far for what? Just to stand by on the sidelines while the two of them risks their lives for us?" She let out a frustrated sigh. "We don't even know what's going on out there. Sure, they might be all good since it's two verses one, but what if something goes wrong? How are we supposed to know or go help?"

"We can only trust them to come back right now, Roxanne."

"..Yeah, I know…"

The four of them waited and waited, occasionally getting up to reposition themselves in the cave. It felt like hours of waiting to Roxanne even though it had been only perhaps twenty minutes since they were dropped off at the cave, she wasn't that patient. The worry was getting to her too, her two friends were out there fighting a rogue Legendary without any support. DAMN IT ALL! She began pacing back and forth, sometimes reaching towards the cave entrance though every time, she'd withdraw her arm because Aurora had specifically ordered them to stay hidden there.

Eventually, she sat down. Her frustration almost overflowing, Roxanne decided to close her eyes and took several deep breaths. She kept her breaths even and rhythmic and in several minutes, her nerves were almost completely calmed and the tension in her muscles nearly nonexistent. The two Legendaries had taught them how to meditate when necessary, and Roxanne had to admit at that moment, it was effective. And with her thoughts calm instead of running rampant as it had been earlier, Roxanne finally came to a decision as she opened her eyes and faced Hugh.

"Hugh, let's get out there and hel-."

Your four may leave the cave now. Roxanne gave a small eep!, startled at the sudden voice. Turning around, she leapt back at the unexpected appearance of Alpha whose head was partially through the false wall. We have him secured, Aurora is questioning him as we speak. Trying to ignore the dark tone his voice had taken, as it was colder and more...baleful even though she knew he'd do no harm towards them, Roxanne sighed and happily approached the Fenrir.

"Wait, so Aurora's alone with him? What if he attacks her?" Hugh asked.

She can handle herself if such a thing happens. However, there is no need to worry. I rid him of his will to attack, he is no longer a threat. Smiling, Hugh uttered a silent "Thank Arceus." Come now, we need to-.

He froze. Why, Roxanne had no clue. Wait a minutes, it's probably my fault. she thought. Roxanne looked up from Alpha's chest (as the Fenrir was large in size and towered over her) and smiled at him, keeping her arms wrapped around his neck in an embrace. "We're glad that you two are okay, we were really worried." Roxanne almost raised an eyebrow as Alpha stared at her, apparently lost as to why she was embracing him. As if he couldn't understand what was happening at that moment. "We need to…?" she supplied.

Blinking, Alpha continued. We need to get back to her. Although I am certain that the Giratina is no longer a threat, it is better to be safe than sorry. The illusionary dirt wall disappeared as Roxanne released him from her embrace. Turning around, Alpha stretched his wings. As he did that, Roxanne looked at the other three only to be bewildered at their expressions.

Hugh and Oculus looked awed for some reason, while Rift was impassive as usual. "What?" she mouthed.

"You hugged him?" Hugh mouthed back, as if what she did made history. Roxanne wondered what was the fuss about and shrugged, nodding before mouthing back her reply.

"And? I'm glad they're okay." She then turned back around, her eyes widening as Alpha lowered himself to the ground.

The battle took us farther than the spot the Giratina had first emerged. Flying there will be faster. The two humans looked at each other, paling at the thought of flying without some sort of securement. The Fenrir glanced at them over his shoulder. Oculus, Rift, if the two of your are still unable to move, I would suggest having Hugh return the two of you to your pokeballs. The two said pokemon nodded, though Hugh only returned Oculus.

"Uh, I think I'll sit out on flying. Rift, do you think you'll be able to teleport me over there?" The Alakazam nodded, then Hugh gave Roxanne and Alpha a sheepish chuckle.

"So.." Roxanne returned her attention to Alpha. "I just sit on your back?" I really don't want to fall to my death, I have so many years ahead of me to live! She noticed Alpha's right eyeridge twitch and almost slapped a hand over her mouth. Did you hear that?

Be mindful of the blades in my back. was his response, and Roxanne could've sworn that he sounded amused. Hearing Hugh snicker, Roxanne carefully lifted a leg over Alpha's back before it rested at his side while she raised herself up, using the Fenrir's shoulders as a support. The manner of which she did so was actually similar to one mounting a horse. Roxanne was careful not to cut her legs with the blades in Alpha's back, though she was surprised that there was actually enough space for her legs to fit in between his sides and the blades. You should hold on to the spikes on either side of my neck. Alpha suggested.

Roxanne did so, clutching the two large spikes that were protruding from Alpha's chest with her hands. "Uh, I'm ready, I guess." she said. Nodding, Alpha gestured for Hugh to go with a paw. Hugh understood the gesture and in the next second, he and Oculus were gone.

We are taking off now. With that, Roxanne's body lurched back as Alpha took off in a running start. She felt the muscles in his back flex right before he leapt into the air and took flight, his wings causing gales of air as they flew towards the area Aurora and the Giratina were.

This is actually not that bad. Roxanne thought to herself, feeling herself beginning to smile. She felt the air rush around her as Alpha maneuvered them through and around turbulence without effort. The flight did not last long though, as they were only in the air for not even five minutes. When they landed, Roxanne slid off the Fenrir and spotted Aurora sitting on her haunches. Her eyes widened at the wounded Giratina on the floor next to the Akirari, noting the numerous bite wounds, slashes, and a large...burn?

How much information did you manage to get from him? Alpha asked Aurora.

A lot, actually. Aurora narrowed her eyes at the Giratina. I'll have to go to the Hall of Origins soon to report this. But what will we do with him? Bring him to the Hall of Origins too?

Neither Lord nor Lady Arceus would want to deal with the work concerning him. They would have to call a trail revolving around him and go through several hours just to have all of the Council to agree that he is not innocent.

True…

Roxanne watched Alpha glance at the Giratina. The Giratina cowered at the cold stare the Fenrir gave him, cowering even more with Alpha's next words. In any case, it does not where he will go. He is a threat to Lord and Lady Arceus and it is in my jurisdiction to eliminate any possible threats to them.

Wait! No, don't you want to keep me in case I remember more information? the Giratina desperately asked as Alpha approached. You can't kill me, not when I may have crucial information!

I doubt that you have any more to tell us. Alpha replied calmly. Either way, you are still a threat and Lady Akirari is satisfied that the information you have given us will do well to help us. And besides, Alpha reached the Giratina and lowered his head to meet the Renegade Pokemon at eye-level, I am certain there are more of you. If there is any more information, we can always get it out of them. With that, Alpha opened his mouth and blasted the Giratina in the face with a ball of Void.

As the Giratina wailed in agony, the Void eating away hungrily at his flesh and spreading, Aurora nodded at Alpha. I'll leave to report to them right now. Is that alright with you?

Do what you need to do. Alpha answered, neither of them paying attention to the dying Giratina. Roxanne was only looking on with horror and slightly morbid fascination. The Void eventually did away with the Giratina's head entirely before his body separated into two at the neck. The Void spread all over the two parts, the head being consumed completely first and by that time, only the lower torso of the corpse remained. A few moments later, nothing remained of the Giratina save a few disintegrating bits of dark matter. You should not need to worry about evidence, correct?

They can look into my memories of what happened. Aurora answered as she spread her wings. I'll be back as soon as I can, guys. Take care until then. Roxanne watched the Akirari take to the skies where a portal opened up before the Legendary disappeared through it. The portal vanished soon after. Roxanne then looked at where the Giratina used to be, the spot now devoid of any evidence that the Renegade Pokemon was there.

"What now?" she asked, the Fenrir glancing at her as he responded.

Now, and at this, Roxanne noted how his tone had changed back to the one she was used to hearing, we go back to whatever we were doing. We'll take the day off tomorrow. Roxanne shifted her gaze to Hugh's partners. Despite the fact that they are still standing and their recovery process is being quickened, it would not be wise to put them through stress in training. Unless, of course, you two would like to train without them.

"I think I'll take the break, I need to watch them in case they strain themselves like kids." Hugh replied jokingly. Oculus looked at the human indignantly, to which Hugh only responded with a laugh. Rift simply turned away, not bothering to give a reaction to Hugh's statement.

And you, Roxanne? Roxanne sighed, rolling her eyes before walking up to the Fenrir.

"Yeah, sure." Roxanne then lifted a finger and of all things to do with it, she poked his snout. "Boop. Call me Roxy, Alpha. Hugh can get away with that since he's used to calling me by my full name since we were kids." she stated. Oh my-Look at his face! That's so priceless! She held in her laughter at the Fenrir's bewildered expression, his brow raised and eyes blankly blinking. Behind them, she could hear Hugh snickering. She even heard Oculus give small hoots of amusement. Alpha looked around, as if he was searching for something all of a sudden. Roxanne smiled, thinking that his current behavior was similar to that of a lost pu-Wait, no way I'm imagining him as that.

If you really would like for me to call you that, then so be it. Alpha finally said after he recomposing himself.

"Say it with my nickname in a sentence, please." Alpha's ears twitched, though it was only with the barest of movement. Roxanne struggled to keep her shoulders still, continuing to hold in her laughter as she gestured for the Fenrir to go on. Alpha simply exhaled softly, a sliver of dark smoke escaping his nostrils.

I shall call you by your nickname from now on-Roxanne sent him an arch look when he lingered at the end of his statement.-...Roxy. Roxanne smiled.

"See? That wasn't so hard, right?" Alpha's left eye almost twitched. Unbeknownst to her, her words were very similar to those of a certain goddess of pokemon.

…

With Jeanne…

How are the current state of things, Sir Algers? Jeanne asked, amused at the irritation emanating from the one on the other end of the astral contact. Suddenly, the one she was talking to cursed after a small shout of pain. After uttering a stream of curses, he ended his tirade and apologized to the Arceus for his use of language before her before cursing again after another shout of pain. I see that you're currently in a...colorful situation.

"Colorful" as in more red stains on my bloody armor, then yes, Milady. And no pun intended. The armor-clad anthropomorphic Umbreon was apparently in the middle of a small skirmish, it was him against a small group of what seemed to be a very large spider from the looks of the thick webbing wrapped around his waist. "Why won't you just die, you miserable cunt!" Jeanne waited several moments as the Knight defended himself against a spray of lava.

I think I came at a bad time, I'll leave you to your duties. Jeanne said when the Umbreon managed to free himself from the tail and took a short breather. He shook his head, waving his hand in a random direction since he could not see her.

"No, no, I just haven't had anything to eat yet. My stomach's as empty as a haunted mansion, yeah, but that'll be fixed when I go home and throw the pizza I ordered-The Umbreon sidestepped to avoid the spider's stabbing leg and swung an unusual dagger. Strangely, the spider leg could no longer move and when the Umbreon swung his dagger back, the spider leg became lacerated before crumpling up as if it was being crushed. It then combusted, the resulting gore dripped off from the air and glistened along an invisible straight line. When the Umbreon flicked his dagger, the invisible line slackened and was gone as the gore splattered on the ground. The Knight smirked as he continued talking. -in the cooker. Excuse me, sorry. HA! HOW'S THAT, YOU UGLY WHORE?! BLOODY HELL, AND I THOUGHT YOUR MOTHER WAS THE WITCH OF IZA-WHATEVER THE HELL IT'S CALLED!" Whatever he was fighting, it seemed that his last comment struck a nerve and the spider being screamed at him. For some reason, it sounded eerily human. "Oi, mate!" Nyx turned around glared pointedly at another armor-clad person, though this individual was not of Jeanne's ranks. "Get your Hollowed arse up and distract her for me for a bit, would ya?"

So the only reason why you're having trouble is because you're fighting on an empty stomach? Jeanne asked him when he signaled that they were good to talk, he had done so by giving her a thumbs-up though to any onlooker, it seemed as if he was giving the gesture to the boulder in front of him.

"That's right. Like I said, going to throw the pizza in the cooker later."

After you slay the monster, yes?

"Right, how else?" The Umbreon and Arceus shared a laugh. "So, are you just checking up to see little ol' me or has there been a change of plans?" Jeanne nodded her head.

The former, it has been a while since I last checked in on you. I wanted to make sure you're still fit for duty. The Arceus noted the spider monster crawl into view, the monster actually being a upper half of a woman, a nude one at that, and anything below the woman's upper half was the body of a spider. Charming.

"Well as you can see, I'm still kicking." The Umbreon ducked his head as the other knight somehow tricked the monster into ramming the wall on the opposite end of the cave they were in. Some debris trickled onto the Umbreon, but he didn't seem to care much. "You look well."

I am. Jeanne let out a soft chuckle.

"How's Sis doing? Is she still training the newb-Ah, BUGGER!" He ducked again as a ball of fire soared past where his head had been previously. Making sure his head wasn't singed, he looked back at his companion and the monster. "Oi! Was that you or her?!..Don't give me that look, you blighter, I know you're a pyro!...Right, right, you're battling and you need to concentrate...Damn, mate, you can time your rolls." Turning back to Jeanne, he sighed. "He's a silent mate, but he knows how to fight like children and their candy."

After shaking her head, Jeanne answered his earlier question. Lady Akirari is doing fine, Sir Algers, and yes. She is still training my newest recruits. Jeanne paused for a second. Actually, her presence has just arrived here. She is most likely here to report in...Yes, she's headed this way.

"Ah, Sis. Ever the hard worker." They waited and several moments later, Aurora walked into the small chamber after permission from Jeanne. The Arceus noted Aurora's grim expression and frowned.

What's wrong, Lady Akirari?

"Wait, is she there?" the Umbreon Knight asked before smiling. "Hey, Sis! As you can see, shit's hitting the fan for us here!" Aurora smiled and rolled her eyes at her pseudo-brother.

Hey, Nyx! Miss you, lil' bro! she called, ignoring formality at the moment.

"Hey, get this, Sis!" the Umbreon Knight, Nyx, exclaimed. "See my mate fighting the bloody spider-lady? So we're constantly coming these loot chests, yeah, and there's not one time where he HASN'T struck one with a sword before checking what's inside. Kind of makes you wonder, yeah?"

Well obviously, Nyx, Aurora said with a smirk, there's a reason why he does that. Maybe there are loot chests that are trapped in that dimension? Jeanne, keeping her expression neutral, smiled inwardly at the exchange. She knew exactly why Nyx's companion strike loot chests at the sight of one. Though, deciding to keep it to herself, Jeanne simply nodded in agreement to Aurora's suggestion. Nyx shrugged.

"I don't know, Sis. But whatever the reason is, we haven't encountered it yet. I'll be sure to let you know when I figure it out." Turning around, Nyx winced as his companion was blasted back by a ball of fire. "Damn. Well, got to go, Sis. See you soon, yeah? You too, Milady." He bowed, presumably at Jeanne, and waved at Aurora (he was still bowing and waving at the boulder) before the image of him faded away, leaving the Akirari and Arceus alone.

Turning to Jeanne, Aurora became serious. Lady Arceus, an agent of the Hands of Vengeance attacked us earlier. More specifically, his targets were Hugh and Roxanne. Jeanne frowned. He also had THE sigil.

Jeanne could hear the capitals in Aurora's last statement, instantly knowing what the Akirari was talking about. So they've finally acted? The Arceus beckoned Aurora to follow as she left the scrying chamber. Jeanne led them to another chamber, her personal one in fact. Darko, her mate, was there sifting through contracts and the like.

The male Arceus, unlike Jeanne, was dark grey and black in color. He lacked the multiple plates floating around the ring around his center, though he didn't seem to care much for the fact. Jeanne knew why though, for it was due to a disorder that left him permanently infused to his Dark Plate, without being able to use other Type-plates. Aside from that, he still retained just about the same abilities Jeanne had.

He had his back turned to them when they entered, but turned around when Jeanne prodded one of his hind legs. Good evening, you two. he said wearily, storing the papers away in a cabinet in the corner of the chamber. What seems to be the problem? Jeanne figured that he could probably tell due to their expressions.

The Shadowed Saints attacked two of our newest recruits. Darko narrowed his eyes. Lady Akirari, why don't you explain what happened? Jeanne watched Aurora nod and sit on her haunches, her expression never changing from being Stern.

...

Please thank him for doing so. Darko sighed with relief, Jeanne sharing the same sigh and mentally noting to thank the Fenrir herself. I'd rather not deal with the extra work concerning the rogue Giratina and all.

He did mention that bringing him back would mean a trial among other things for you. Aurora nodded.

A trail that would last several hours minimum, as you know. Jeanne said. And that's not including the time it'd take to make a decision what to do with him after. And you're sure that he gave you all of the information he had?

His life was in our hands, Milady, if he held back anything, Lord Fenrir would have noticed and killed him if I didn't notice myself. Aurora turned her attention to Darko. Is there enough information to work with?

Jeanne saw her mate frown. And if she knew him well, that frown meant that he had several ideas at the least in mind. Darko looked at her, Jeanne translating it as a silent question to which she nodded to in agreement for she knew what he wanted to ask.

I believe it is satisfactory, I have several connections that can look into the Shadowed Saints and track their movements. For now, we should not act. They don't know for sure whether or not we know of their attack so we should make the calm between us last as long as possible as we come up with a solution or counter to their motives.

Jeanne and Aurora agreed with him. The former knew that if the S.S. figure out that it was them responsible for their Giratina assailant not coming back to report, the S.S. couldn't do anything about it anyway since a direct attack would incite a war between the Legendaries and those of the Council and the rogues who were somewhat smaller in number. Such a war would result in losses on both sides and would not prove beneficial in any way to the S.S. Anything else to report, Lady Akirari? Jeanne asked. Said Akirari shook her head. Come with me then, we'll be seeing Lord Uxie to record your encounter with the assassin in case you possibly missed anything.

Aurora nodded and stepped out of the chamber, Jeanne following close though turned to Darko before leaving. Be sure to discuss anything you may discover about this attack or any other ideas you may have with me when we're done.

Of course, dear, I'd love your company. With a smile, Jeanne caught up to Aurora.

They went to a different chamber a little ways down a hallway, a Uxie floating inside waiting for them. Jeanne had contacted him to prepare for the scan when she, Aurora, and Darko were talking earlier. When Jeanne nodded for the Uxie to begin the mental scan before turning around as Aurora closed her eyes-for looking into the Uxie's open eyes was incredibly dangerous-she smiled to herself. He's prompt, he'd show up on time no matter what the time. Jeanne thought, noting to herself to give the Uxie some sort of reward for his services sometime later.

It is done. the Uxie stated several minutes later. Jeanne turned back around and Aurora opened her eyes when the Uxie let them know that he had closed his. It does not seem to be tampered with and from what I saw, she did not leave anything out from her retelling. The Uxie then faced Jeanne. About the incident…

You are not to say a word of it to any of the Council nor to any other Legendary. Jeanne said sternly. The small floating Legendary before her nodded.

Of course, Milady. He then bowed to Aurora, dismissing himself and leaving Jeanne and Aurora alone. Jeanne sighed tiredly as she floated to the floor of the chamber, sitting down and shaking her head with a sigh. She felt Aurora sitting down next to her and looked at the Akirari with a wan smile.

I really wish it didn't happen, it's now another thing to add on our growing list of concerns. Jeanne remarked with a chuckle. Aurora joined in and their laughter grew before settling down a few minutes later.

Well, you are the current Arceus in charge along with Darko. At least you two have each other for support and can divide up the work load.

True. Jeanne smiled. But the stress is all the same. Want to take over my position for a while? the Arceus joked with another chuckle.

No thanks, I see how much work is piling down your shoulders, and of course I'll help you lighten the load, but there's no way I'm going to take on all that work by myself! was the joking reply.

…

With Rift…

It was the next day and they were all in the house still, which confused Rift. Why weren't they training already? At that current moment in time, they would probably being starting their warm up stretches right after finishing the distanced run. The Alakazam frowned. His master, Hugh, as well as Roxanne, would always look close to straining themselves with the exercises. But, Rfit thought as he eyed the Fenrir and Akirari standing in the center of the living room in front of the tv, the four of them would have to trust that the two Legendaries would not overwork them.

"You four are all having a day off today, so three days of break this week." Aurora announced as Rift and the others seated themselves. The four looked at the Legendaries in alarm, wondering if the Akirari and Fenrir were joking. But when Aurora didn't say anything further, adding to the fact that Alpha wasn't disagreeing with her, they found that it was not a joke at all.

"You guys are serious?" Roxanne's question sounded more like a statement, with skepticism lacing her tone. "Hey, Alpha, you're not going to suddenly turn around and make us train later?" Rift shied away as the Fenrir spoke, still floating with his legs crossed. He settled next to his master who gave him an acknowledging smile. Rift almost returned one of his own, though reminded himself to remain professional.

"No, there really is no training today. Do whatever you want to your leisure, as you are still recovering from yesterday's attack." Rfit almost sighed in relief. He didn't want to try breaking through the dark barrier the Fenrir would put around his spoons for training. It would take Rift so much concentration to keep the barrier from spreading all over the spoon, and even more concentration trying to break through the barriers which were practically immune to his psychic prowess. "If you ask us to train, we will deny your request so do not bother trying to do so." Alpha then began to walk away as Aurora smiled at the group. "Do not worry, the intensity will double tomorrow to make up for it."

"I knew there was a catch!" Hugh yelled as Roxanne simply rolled her eyes at the Legendaries.

"He's just joking, guys." Aurora reassured.

"That was his attempt at joking? Well, at least he was trying." Hugh said with a snicker, Aurora and Roxanne joining in. Oculus cawed his laughter as well, not caring how strange it sounded in the slightest. Rift shook his head at their laughter, wondering why he was the only one there save for Alpha to take things seriously...even though they took everything seriously.

"Hey, you guys up for Cianwood Beach?" Aurora asked. Rift immediately remembered the time he had spent there with his master and their team as well as with Roxanne. It was where they earned their fifth badge, if he recalled correctly. Rift remembered how fierce the Gym Trainers and their partners were, the Gym Leader even more so. Though, it was nothing Rift couldn't handle. After all, throw a bit of psychic flair into a Fighting-type's path and the job should be a wee bit easier.

It was then Rift registered what Aurora had just said fully. Cianwood Beach? Sure, he remembered stepping on the sand and feeling the breeze carry mist from the water as they made their way around the city to the Gym. But that was it. Well, aside from spending a couple nights there as well to rest up before continuing their journey.

The Akirari and the two humans began talking excitedly. Shrugging inwardly, not really caring about the place, he floated over to the door and stepped-actually using his feet-outside. He felt Oculus flying over his head. "Where you going, Rift?" the Noctowl cawed.

Somewhere to meditate. The answer was obvious, to be honest, for Rift did little to nothing else. He'd read some scrolls Aurora would procured for him every once and awhile seeing as he rather liked those sort of things, and train as well, though he mostly kept to himself or followed his master around in case Hugh needed help or advice with anything.

"Mind if I come along and ask you a few things?" The Noctowl made Rift smile on the inside, it was gratifying that Oculus would come to him most of the time if he ever needed anything, or had any questions. It was always like that, actually. Aside from their bond with Hugh, their friendship was possibly the greatest in Hugh's entire team. "Close friends" wouldn't even begin to describe their relationship, for they were more like brothers. Amusingly, there was a time when Oculus came to him for advice when mating season came around. It only confused Rift at the time, for how would he help as it was NOCTOWL courting, not flying Alakazam.

Of course not, friend. Rift found a spot in the clearing and crossed his feet as he floated back up into the air. I'm all ears.

Oculus settled on the ground in front of Rift, spreading his wings to warm them in the sun. "I know what everybody's feeling so far about everything that has been happening. Everyone except for you.." Rift followed Oculus's outstretched wing as it pointed at him, "..and Alpha."

When you said "everything"...

"I mean, what are your thoughts on this whole thing? The training, the Knight stuff, the Giratina attacking us...and what are your thoughts on Aurora and Alpha?"

Why do you want to know?

"Call me curious and humor me, Rift." Well then. Rift didn't see why he shouldn't, it wasn't as if telling his thoughts to the Noctowl would be a bad thing. Shrugging and relaxing his posture, Rift leaned forward and fiddled with an end of his mustache with his thumb and index finger.

Very well. I'll start with the time Lady Arceus made Roxanne the offer. I thought it was incredibly honoring, yet, so very daunting. Imagining what it would be like serving under Arceus, becoming a Knight under oath...It's something unfathomable, equally amazing and terrifying. You truly need to risk everything to fully serve under her and while that can very well mean possible death, it is also a great honor.

As for the training...While it is very strenuous and extreme at some points, I think it's necessary for the type of tasks we'll be eventually taking on. It's certainly beneficial, both Master and Roxanne are getting stronger and faster with every session, as are we. Not only that, but all of us are developing faster reaction times. Oculus, humans on average have a reaction time of 215 milliseconds. I've been recording intensely and I found that both Master and Roxanne have a reaction time of 187. And we are not even halfway through our training. I think that is all that needs to be said to express my feelings about our training.

When the Giratina attacked us, I'd say we put our trust in Lady Aurora...and Lord Alpha. They seem to be truly concerned with helping our growth and health so they will most likely handle whatever may come for us. They didn't even want us to help take down the Giratina because they were confident in their own abilities so they'd rather not have us risk our lives by joining in. Again, I think that says much about what I feel about it.

Lady Aurora is wise and caring, and she can be stern when she needs to be. She is also very casual whenever we're not training, as if her status as a Legendary of the Council doesn't even set us apart. Even though she is about Master and Roxanne's age, it seems as though she's the authoritative adult in a room full of adolescents….And her cooking is very satisfying.

Lord Alpha...I'm not entirely sure what to feel about him. He never says anything more than he needs to and he secludes himself more than the phrase "lone wolf" should allow. We know next to nothing about him except for what he is and his current status in the Legendaries. We also know that he is powerful just by standing near him. He never fools around nor does he ever relax as we would. It's as if he's constantly expecting to come out from hiding to attack him, though he hides all his emotions and concerns, if he has any, well. And his darkness...It's more than anything I've ever felt. I do not even think I'll be able to break his barriers on my spoons anytime soon. But despite all of that, he is trustworthy. That is for certain in all of that shroud of mystery surrounding him.

Oculus blinked and Rift wondered if he went on too much. The Noctowl then chuckled. "I agree with you. So far, nothing too bad has happened to any of us and should anything happen, Alpha and Aurora will be there. Training is not too bad, even though my wings are getting sore more often than not." Oculus cawed a laugh. "Those two, even Alpha, are good people and even better friends. Sorry for asking, I just wanted your say on it all." Rift nodded, smiling as Oculus sighed. They were content, despite the attack from the day prior. Rift found it funny, for one would never think that they, of all people, a small team aiming to beat the Trainer's circuit, would ever be recruited by the Arceus. No, their initial goal was to defeat the Johto League, take whatever earnings they would make from doing so, become champions, and live a life of leisure.

But thinking about that goal now...Rift thought that it would actually be very unsatisfying. All their hard work, with blood, sweat, and tears, to defeat the Johto League paying off only to relax and live lazily for the rest of their lives? No, with their current occupations under Lady Arceus, they had another purpose. A much larger and significant one than simply being champions of the region. To be honest, it made Rift feel proud and he had to admit, he may have been developing a bigger head and ego lately (But he didn't show it, of course! Oh, how appalled he would be if Master Hugh and the others saw him as such!) and perhaps, a bit overconfident in his training (Even though he was having trouble progressing past the dark barriers around his spoons.).

"Oh. Hey, Alpha."

Damn! How did he not feel the Fenrir's presence? It could not simply be because of the fact that he was of the Dark. A Psychic-type would still be able to feel the presence of dark entities and such. Opening his eyes once more, Rift almost recoiled though kept his composure seeing that the Fenrir was only about a foot away from his position. His footfalls are practically nonexistent with how silent they are.

Alpha nodded at them, greeting them both. "Oculus, Rift. I came to tell you two that we are planning to go to Cianwood City soon."

"So they actually agreed on it?" Oculus asked. Rift briefly wondered about what they would be doing. If he recalled correctly, which he should be since he had near-perfect memory (and the fact that Aurora and them were discussing it about five minutes ago), they would be simply spending the day relaxing at the beach. Some say that Cianwood was actually a disappointment, for it was a dead end in the region and not much can be done there. Others say that the only reason worth coming there was to challenge the Gym. Rift almost snorted.

And their reason was to relax at the beach.

"Yes." Alpha pointed towards the house and out came the Akirari and two humans. "She told me just a little past a minute ago."

…

Stepping out of the portal, Rift felt his feet warm atop the sand. While Aurora closed her portal, he took a moment to eye the Fenrir and Akirari. The two looked...normal, to say in the least. Alpha had mentioned that his appearance would rouse attention to them, as well as cause many to question just what he really was. To remedy that, the Fenrir had an illusion casted around his wings and horns, while the flames traveling throughout the tribal markings on his body and tail simply lowered in intensity. One would probably take that as a sign that the Fenrir was studying the arcanes. The bones on his body were "shadowed" as well, making his overall appearance be that of a normal wolf. As for Aurora, she bent light around her to make her wings invisible. She didn't do anything to change the pulsing blue steams on her body. One would probably see them as something of magic as well.

So in short, the two Legendaries resembled normal wolves, albeit, complete opposites of each other. Also, they were all in different clothing to suit-pun was intended, thank you very much-their current situation. Rift's master was currently wearing swimming trunks and a tank top, Roxanne was wearing a large shirt over herself with probably some clothing to be in the water underneath, Aurora wore shorts and a shirt (probably wearing some underclothes for the water like Roxanne), and finally, after MUCH convincing to even come with them, Alpha wore a simple gray shirt and dark asphalt colored shorts.

"Yes, a breeze…" Roxanne sighed as she stretched towards the sun, temperatures were high in the area. Rift didn't really feel it as much but maybe it was just him. Next to him, Oculus immediately took to the sky to test the winds. As he glided, they found that Roxanne's statement was a bit of a understatement as the Noctowl was constantly directed to the east and it seemed that he had to give a bit of effort to fight against the wind.

"Sunblock, guys." Aurora produced a bottle of sunblock in her palm and tossed it to Hugh. While Rift's master started applying the UVB-defense cream, Rift himself inwardly shrugged at the offer. He didn't need sunblock, he could always create a screen around his person to nullify the harmful rays of the sun.

"So," Hugh said as he applied the sunscreen to his arm, "the plan is to kick back and relax until around, what, noon? Then we'll all go out to eat, more beach time, dinner, then go back to the house?" Well, the plan was simple.

"Sounds about right." Aurora replied as Oculus returned to them.

"You don't look that excited, Rift." Oculus whispered with a laugh, knowing full well Rift's reply to that.

I must remain professional. The Alakazam then smiled as Oculus gave him a slight nudge with a wing.

It was going to be a good day.

…

Somewhere…

It was dark. He could barely see anything past two feet in front of him. But, he knew where he was going. He knew the path well, he'd have to make another left at the next split in the hallway and continue on straight down the path from that point on. He walked the path every day, it was routine.

It would be another five minutes or so of walking before he reached his destination. What awaited him was something resembling a throne room. Five large figures sat upon large pillars in a half circle, all of them staring at him. He almost cowered under their gaze, their red eyes sent chills down his spine. He could feel them looking down on him as he was so inferior compared to them, he was only a lowly Latios. "Sires." he greeted with a bow of the head.

"Latios." the figure in the center rumbled, its voice resembling the tumbling of rocks. "So you come bearing news. Good news, I hope…" The Latios had trouble swallowing his nervousness, absently clutching at the glowing purple insignia at his chest probably as some way to comfort himself.

Or to remind him who his loyalty belonged to.

"What became of our assassin?" The Latios began to sweat, he could feel his heart rate rise rapidly. He very much wanted to smile and apologize for interrupting the leaders, turn away, and fly for his life. One can never really predict the actions of these five, especially what they may do when it comes to bad news. And so, gathering his little courage and hoping they wouldn't decide to separate his head from his neck in the next minute...He rather liked having his head connected to his neck.

"The Giratina.." Latios began, trying not to somehow irritate the leaders with the sound of his very voice. "..he has been stopped. And killed, from what our sources say."

Latios loathed the next several moments. They were staring down on him, never breaking away their gaze. He almost wished they would simply yell at him, also almost wishing they would just blame him for it all and take away his rank. The suspense and their silence was the absolute worst when it came to meetings such as this one. The Latios's sweat started to drip to the floor and when it did, he almost fainted. His sweat was on. their. floor! Oh, he was so done for!

.."Killed, you say? And he didn't even succeed in completing his objective?"

"...Yes." This was it. His life would end right there and then. He always knew it would be at the hands of the leaders. Closing his eyes, the Latios took a deep breath and mentally prepared himself for whatever possible torment and eventual death they might throw at him.

"Well then, this is a bit unexpected. We have sent out others as well, but they've yet to reach their targets...Tell me, Latios, how exactly did he perish?" Oh, damn it.He had hoped they wouldn't ask him that question. If he survived through the first question, this one would be the one that would do him in.

"Sire, sources say that it was due to the Fenrir..."

The air had never been colder than how it was at that moment. Neither had it been filled with so much malicious intent.