To say everyone was baffled would be putting it lightly. They were expecting a lot of things down here in this estrange world. Invisible Vallite soldiers, yes. Potential treasure around the corner, most likely. But what tripped even the likes of Gunter's stoic outlook was the very bizarre man in a white lab coat with large glasses fidgeting his fingers.

"Oh...oh! Thank heavens! I am saved! I am saved!" the estrange man cheered. "Ha! A-and good timing as well...d-do you by chance happen to have something to eat on you?"

Damon blinked, not allowing his Glock to come down even for a second. "Uh...who de hell is dis?" He turned towards Gunter. "Aye, old soldier dude, he a friend of yours you met down here?"

Gunter frowned. "No, can't say that I'm familiar with him myself." He furrowed his brow in suspicion. "He looks nothing like those soldiers we've fought either. This is definitely strange."

Corrin looked at the man head to toe, scanning for any signs of injuries. For the most part, he seemed just fine, much to his relief. "It's okay, calm down. You have nothing to worry about."

"Oh...oh, thank goodness!" The man cheered. "Good, good, b-because you have no idea what it's like to have eaten nothing but shrubs and loose foods wherever you go down here. I, uh...I think I may have had a food poisoning a little while ago." He turned towards the side. "I wouldn't go in those bushes if I were you..."

"Uh...ew?" Damon flinched.

"Wait a minute..." Evan stepped up, giving him his full attention. Realization was quick to dawn upon him as he recognized the facial features, the swirling glasses, the messed up white hair. He was all but certain about it. "I know you! You're Doctor Poopenschmir!"

Azura blinked. "Doctor...who again?"

"Evan? You know him?" Freya questioned, giving him a skeptical brow.

"Well, not personally. My friends and I saw him on TV a little while back. He was this really weird scientist who was experimenting with space and time, or...something like that."

Corrin, however, was stuck on something that Evan just said. 'TV? Is that a weapon of some kind?'

Poopenschmir pointed at Evan, his eyes widening with glee in his eyes. "Aha! Yes! That is me! I, Doctor Peter Poopenschmir! Genius inventor...with a medical license!" He added with deep punctuation. "Or I would if those bean pickers from the Sinnoh Science Community hadn't discredited me, and calling me a Hoothoot! I am not a Hoothoot! Do you hear me?! Hmmm?! I am not. A. HOOTHOOT!"

"Uh..." Evan trailed off, unsure of what to say, let alone react. He looked over at the others to see them equally as confused. They looked back at the doctor as he started flapping his arms and rolling his tongue.

"HOOT! HOOT! You think I do that?! Well, haha! I am the one who will be having the last laugh, now that my Immersifier worked! It worked! It really worked!" He raced up to the nearest tree and grabbed the trunk, humping it with his pelvis, much to everyone's growing anxiety. "Take that, you so called professors! And that, Francis! And that to all of you!"

"He's certainly...an odd character." Azura noted.

"Uh...f-fo', is he alright?" Damon quipped uneasily.

"I-I don't know what's happening. All I'm seeing is a freak trying to hump a tree in broad daylight. I must be tripping or something." DK sighed, shaking his head.

"I'm still trying to figure out what he's saying." Nathan scoffed, raising a brow. "Something about immersion or something?"

Corrin and Evan exchanged wary expressions. Neither of them were sure o what to say, let alone do about the situation. As far as what they've seen so far, either this man needed their help...or was already too far gone. Maybe in between? But they needed to still get some answers from him if all possible.

"S-should we say something, Corrin?" Evan asked in a whisper.

"Right..." Corrin cleared his throat, trying to get over the earlier shock and stepped forward. "Excuse me, Peter you said, right? Can I ask you something?"

That seemed to have done the trick as Poopenschmir ceased thrusting his pelvis in his irate and jumped back in front of Corrin. "Y-yes, yes?"

"How exactly did you end up down here?"

Poopenschmir's eyes widened. "O-oh, yes of course! Well you see, I was testing my new gadget – The Immersifier! With it, you should be able to breach the space between another dimension!" He chuckled nervously. "But uh, well, it, uh...sort of got a bug somewhere along the lines of testing apparently, and uh...it...kinda overloaded itself."

"Wait...overloaded how exactly? What're you saying?!" DK snapped. "Are you saying that machine you're on about is why we're here or something?!"

Poopenschmir fidgeted his fingers some. "Well, uh...m-maybe? It wasn't supposed to happen on such a large scale!"

"Wait...hold up, hold up! Back up just one second there!" DK held his hand up like a stop sign. "So you're telling us, that basically, you were making this machine, that you goofed on...and now, because you tried messing with others worlds...we're all here?!"

Poopenschmir fidgeted, as though he was trying to find any semblance of words to help him compensate for the growing disturbance. "Uh...yes?"

DK went slackjawed. He was left speechless, let alone baffled at how in the name of all things science – let alone sanity – this was even remotely possible. Nathan and DK exchanged worried looks, while Azura and Felicia showed genuine concern. It was hard-pressed not to feel anything because of what they've all been through.

With the silence going on as long as it was, the group's voluntary anxiety was making Poopenschmir all the more worried. "Um...y-yes? Is everyone okay?" He sounded genuinely concerned, though everyone's expressions showed anything but.

"Are we okay...are we okay?" DK's voice grew into anger. "DO WE LOOK OKAY?! YOU'RE A DOCTOR! YOU TELL ME, DO WE LOOK OKAY?! DO WE EVEN SOUND OKAY! WE! ARE! LOST! IN ANOTHER WORLD BECAUSE OF YOU, DIPSHIT! AAAAAHHHHH!"

Nathan clutched his ear closest to DK's irate, trying to diffuse the noise pollution. "Yeah, okay. I'm pretty pissed, too. I almost died in this place because of you, I hope you realize that."

"We all did." Freya said, turning to give Poopenschmir a look. "What were you hoping to even accomplish? Just to make a point?! We were taken from our own homes! We didn't have any food, or water...anything!"

"Fo', I gotz me a kill streak back home, a-and youz come along and take that from me?!" Damon smacked his lips, shaking his head disapprovingly. "Aw, nah fo', you done messed up now."

"Hmmm...y-yes, I see your point. Guess this...this is pretty bad. I know..." He morbidly nodded and glanced away from everyone. "I-I'm sorry..."

"Keith frowned disapprovingly. "Well, I hate to be the one to tell you this, but just saying sorry won't fix the damage that your little experiment caused. Your actions not only brought yourself in danger, but a lot of innocent people here, too. Especially the Pokémon. Are you even aware of what's happening right now?"

"Aside from being trapped in this here damn canyon for days, I...can't say that I do." Poopenschmir countered. "But seriously though, does anyone have something to eat? Drink maybe?"

Keith shook his head disapprovingly. 'What kind of a new mess did I end up getting roped into this time I wonder?' He sighed. "Anyways, do you know just how many Pokémon were affected by all this?"

"Well, if what you said is true, then by judging by um, calculations, about maybe, er..." He moved his finger as though it were a pen, scribbling imaginative calculations in the air. "I'd say...about a good chunk? A third of the entire populace maybe?"

"A third?!" Evan's eyes widened, nearly falling forward. "You kidding me right now?! That's still like hundreds of thousands! Millions maybe, or however big this world can cram in here!" He turned towards Corrin. "No offense."

"None taken." Corrin frowned. "But you're right. This can't be taken lightly. If what you're saying is true, then there has to be a way we can fix this, for you guys and the Pokémon."

Azura was quiet. She looked at Poopenschmir with a straight face. She was pondering something, which didn't go unnoticed by the likes of Freya.

"Azura? What's with the face?"

"Nothing, I just have a feeling..."

Riolu's feelers on his sides suddenly shifted. His eyes widened when he felt something strange. Something with a grim aura afoot. "(Guys! We're not alone!)"

"What is it, Riolu?" Corrin gave him a look and immediately saw the cautious look on his face. He followed his gaze towards the space behind Poopenschmir. He subconsciously gripped his Yato and readied for a striking position. "Everyone, look alive!"

Suddenly, three shadowy wisps appeared, along with large figments camouflaged into the surroundings. Poopenschmir shot back in a spook and looked horrified. Evan and the others looked just as wary with how these figments had dominant auras about them.

"Oh, great! More of them?!" DK quipped, deeply exasperated.

"C'mon, fo'! How many bullets do I have to go through?!" Damon begrudgingly scoffed.

"You all...leave now..." It was faint, but was still clear enough to be understood by everyone. The feminine voice made it clear that this was her territory, and didn't welcome any of them.

Corrin held his stance firmly, keeping a form grip on his blade while Riolu guarded his rear. "Who are you?!"

"Me...? I am but a mage of Valla." She held up an invisible hand. "Return to once you came. This shall be your only warning to never return."

"Wait, hold on-!"

Corrin's plea went unanswered. A faint light appeared in the mage's hand that surrounded everyone. In a flash, she closed her palm, making a bright flare that caused all of them to vanish on the spot. All that was left to show their recent appearance was nothing more than the press marks of their tracks on the edge of the grass.

Along the gorge of the Bottomless Canyon, lightning flashed in the sky. With so much flashes happening, it was almost impossible to tell when a bright light flickered and dropped the dozen of bodies onto the dead grass. Everyone fell on their backs and stomachs, partially some on their sides with thuds. They all laid there in a daze, completely disoriented from the sudden teleportation.

"Oooooh-hoh-hooo...ugh, my back..." DK groaned.

"Ooooh, fo', what's with all diz space stuff about...?" Damon grunted, his head in a daze. Scraggy laid close to him with an equally disoriented look in his eyes.

Drizzile looked down at Freya, poking at her hair. "(Freya? Are you okay?)" she nervously asked. '(Oh no...please don't tell me she finally died?!)'

With a hardy groan, Freya slowly lifted her head. She looked up to find Drizzile and Rolycoly present, much to her relief and partial surprise. "You guys, too...?" She sat up, looking around to find the others gradually getting back up. "Is everyone alright?"

Gunter sat up, along with his steed and Larvitar. "(I'm okay!)" The latter cheered, looking around at his surroundings. "(Wow, so this is the outside world...?)"

"Yes, I do believe that I am fine. Thank you." Gunter sat up, looking around to realize the lightning flashing above. "Milord, it would appear that...we are now back in our own realm."

Felicia blinked. "H-How did that all even happen so fast?!"

Wartortle and Butterfree stayed close to Evan as he arose to a knee. He stammered back to his feet with a grunt. "Ugh, I'm getting really tired of blacking out." He huffed out his exhaustion and gasped. He looked around to find themselves at the edge of the gorge before they took the plunge. "Wait a minute...how did we get back here in an instant? Was that figment really...?"

He heard a groan beside him. He saw Corrin getting back up from his shock and onto his feet. He also followed and showed genuine concern. "Corrin, you in one piece?"

"Yeah...I think." He grimaced, looking down at the dark gorge with a straight frown. "But...what did we just encounter down there?"

"I don't know about you guys, but I am definitely not wanting to go back down there!" DK whined.

Keith furrowed his brow. "As pessimistic as the chef is, I think that I'll have to agree. Whatever we just came across, it had enough power to completely kick us all out of-!" He was about to say the name of the place, but remembered well of the warning that Azura inscribed when they found refuge. He scrambled around for words until be found a reasonable solution. "...that place."

"Well, that could have gone better...at least that saves us the trouble of having to find a way back out." Nathan stood back up, dusting off his clothing. He turned towards the cliffs and saw Azura looking out into the abyss with a look like she was pondering deeply. "Hey...what's up with you?"

"(Um, is she okay? I'm a little freaked out right now...)" Wimpod quipped, swiveling behind Nathan's legs.

Azura remained quiet as lightning flashed high above her head. She didn't say anything, nor did it seem like she could. It was as though she was in some fixation of her own. The invisible shroud of a woman; she carried about her some form of regal dignity that she just couldn't shrug off. It wasn't anything like King Garon, nor was it anything like Queen Mikoto. Their auras were almost bipolar opposites of each other. This one was...different. And it was precisely that kind of difference that her head churn gears at something that jolted her nerves.

Popplio tilted her head. "(Huh? Is everything okay, Azura?)"

As if her cries were deaf, Azura lowered her head, calmly closing her eyes to recount something that almost sounded lost. "'When dawn turns to dusk. When dusk turns to dawn. Then the door will spawn.'."

Her rhythmic chime caught Corrin's attention. "What was that, Azura? A poem?"

Azura sagely opened her eyes. "Those words...my mother said those very words to me when I was so young, ages ago. She said that when dawn turns to dusk, and dusk turns to dawn...the gateway to the Bottomless Canyon either opens or closes."

"Gateway...?" Keith furrowed his brow before he realized it. "You mean to the other side."

Gunter hummed as he was in thought, too. "When dawn turns to...hmmm...I see now."

"What's up?" Nathan quipped, raising a brow.

"Only once every few decades, the skies above Nohr and Hoshido undergo a reversal. In other words, the...less than appealing views of the air above Nohr turns onto Hoshido, and thus Nohr shall breach sunlight."

"Ooooooh! Now that, that makes sense! Man, no wonder dat other side looks dea af, fo'." Damon sniped. "Man, sucks for Hoshido. Guess they'll be seeing greener pastures say, oh...20-30 years or so?"

"You mean the same time you'd be spending in a jail cell if you were ever convicted." Keith teased modestly.

Damon sharply turned towards him. "Fo, you wanna joke about dat again!?"

"(Yeah man, not cool! Wanna Headbutt to your teeth so you can't yap?!)" Scraggy huffed.

Keith raised his hand dismissively while keeping another on his Ditto in its cane transformation. "Sorry. But in all seriousness, when is this next big shift about to happen? Do either of you know?"

"If memory serves, about a few months from now." Gunter explained.

Azura nodded. "Yes. I am certain that's the sign that the pass down there has either opened or closed. Since we were able to travel there now, the next time we go will be when it closes." She turned towards Poopenschmir. "And I believe the timing had an effect on your world as well through your device, good doctor."

"O-oh! Yes...I see! Because of this small gap, yes?" Poopenschmir inquired, pinching his thumb and index finger to show said gap of the open and closed doorways of their worlds.

"Yes. If what you said is true, you must have activated your device when the gap frame became possible for the doorway to open. The energies of what lied on the other side must have bridged themselves together to create an aftershock."

Evan's eyes widened upon realization. "Wait...then that explains everything! That's why we're in this world now!"

Azura nodded again. "Yes. And as you said, there were many other of your world's magical creatures that have crossed over as well. There may be a way to find a means to return them while this bridge is still connected. Because once the gateway closes...it will remain closed for decades."

Freya's eyes shrank at the realization. "Wait, so you're saying...!"

"We only have a few months to find a way home...and without a bridge to connect our worlds...we'll be stuck here...forever." Keith finished on a solemn note.

"Oh my gosh..." Felicia gasped.

A dreaded silence fell upon everyone as lightning flashed high above. They all were processing the realization like they heard somebody died. Even Damon looked like he was spooked. The tone in the atmosphere grew deathly serious as they registered the shock. They could be panicking like DK wanted to, but that would only waste precious time and energy. They needed to act smart – and act fast!

"So time isn't on our side this time." Nathan grimaced, looking down at Bagon and Wimpod. "So from here on, every minute counts to fix this problem you guys have as well as our own. Sound about right?"

"Right on the money, Nathan." Keith noted. "We don't have much time at this rate. We need to devise a plan of action to cover as much ground on two fronts as possible."

Corrin nodded in agreement. "Yes, you're right. Now that we have a common enemy for both Hoshido and Nohr, we should be able to get them to stop fighting each other and focus on them instead." In theory, it sounded much better on paper than it did in action. He knew first-hand that getting them to stop fighting was one thing, but getting them to fight together was like asking a fish to fly.

There was also the matter that Keith brought up before. Telling them about the enemy without actually telling them. Once again, a paradox presented itself. One word about Valla or Anankos, and he could kiss his existence goodbye. Hearing Azura explain that about her mother was enough of a reason to not get carried away. He was a warrior, not a gambler. And gambling with life on a conscious mind was an unspoken code to never be broken.

Evan inhaled through his nose, exhaling through his mouth. He knew this was a lot to take in. Considering what they all went through as well, he knew this was not the best time to explain the details. "Okay, look. How about this. We've all been through a lot today. What do you say that we go back to the Astral Plain and rest ourselves up. Then we'll pick up from that point. Sound good?"

"Finally...someone with a logical suggestion." DK huffed. "Yes, please."

"Yeah man, I gotta reload here, and Scrags gotta eat!" Damon smacked his lips again with a sigh. "Man, let's just go's already."

Evan turned towards Freya. "Ready?"

She gave him a humble nod and meek grin. "Alright. Besides, I could use a bath. Ladies first if you don't mind."

Evan eyerolled. "By all means, go ahead. Just leave some clean water for the rest of us."

She huffed with her grin curving more into a smirk. "After your little tactician work running us ragged, you should be the last one to say such a thing."

"Ouch. Okay, someone got sniped by a Krabby where it don't shine." He turned and withdrew both Wartortle and Butterfree. "You both get some rest. Nice work."

"Yes, you guys too." Freya followed Evan's lead in withdrawing Drizzile and Rolycoly. Corrin and the others proceeded to do the same with their own Pokémon. Damon of course kept Scraggy out, and Ditto remained a cane for Keith's needs. Once everyone was fastened and ready to go, they stood still.

"(What's going on...?)" Larvitar worried, looking around anxiously.

"(Relax man. Trust me, you'll be'z a lot safer where we're going.)" Scraggy nonchalantly shrugged.

"Alright everyone, we're going!" Corrin announced, looking towards the sky. "Lilith!"

Suddenly, another bright glow surrounded the group. The atmosphere charged with a brightening flare before they all shrank into the mass that faded into sparkles in the canyon.

In the castle domain in the Astral Plain, several bright blue sparkles congregated to a singular point. The sparkles collaborated into a large mass that suddenly flared brightly. Everyone stood on their feet as they reappeared in their little slice of haven.

Poopenschmir blinked, putting a hand atop his head as he caught himself. "O-oh my...I feel quite woozy."

"Yeah, several jumps like that from the start really takes a lot out of you, sorry about that." Corrin stated. "Your body should be fine the more you do it."

DK sighed in relief. "Well I don't know about you guys, but I just wanna lay down and relax..."

"Yeah man, 'bout to crash for a while. So, uh...where de food at?" Damon's point was followed by an awkward silence. Everyone looked at each other with a slightly growing sense of anxiety. None of them didn't want to try any of DK's cooking again, especially his special "Breakfast Stew".

Just thinking about it alone was enough to make Evan want to gag. Thankfully he hadn't eaten much so there was nothing in there to spew out.

"I'm sure that we'll figure something to accommodate our needs." Azura noted, trying to keep the subject from dragging too long. "Now then..." She turned her attention towards Poopenschmir. "Please, doctor, now that we're here, tell us once more how your device worked."

Poopenschmir nodded. "Y-yes, of course. Well you see, my Immersifier, it's specifications were so that we could actually see into other worlds. It really wasn't meant to become tangible. That...that never came up in the testing calculations, however..."

Azura hummed in understanding. "I believe I understand now. Do you by chance know what happened to your...Immersifier?"

"Oh, that..." Poopenschmir looked visibly forlorn about something. "Well, uh...there might be some kind of a glitch in all this..."

"How bad of a glitch are we talking...?" Nathan looked at Poopenschmir with a furrowed brow. From the tone the doctor was giving, he had a pretty good guess as to what it was...and he was already not liking the answer.

Poopenchmir fidgeted his fingers like a nervous child. He looked down at his feet as he scrambled for an answer that wouldn't earn him a bullet by Damon, or a possible kitchen knife stabbing by DK. But ultimately, with how exhausted, hungry, and dehydrated the doctor was, he really hadn't much willpower to give much of a damnation to it all.

"Well...I'm just going to come right out and say it. The Immersifier kinda..." His shoulders slumped. "...broke."

"It what?!" DK exasperated.

Poopenschmir muffled lowly, glancing left and right for answers. "Yes...I'm afraid that's the truth. You see, I think because of the overload it suffered, the stress might have broken it like...KABOOM!" He opened his palms and careened back to exaggerate his meaning. Everyone cringed and looked even more baffled with the news. "It's in shambles...and we're not in a lab anyway...with no power...yeah..."

Everyone's eyes gradually widened. Some of them were already too tired to pick up fists and throw tantrums, but some like Evan who had energy to spare only raised a brow. "Wait...so let me get this straight..." He slowly approached Poopenschmir. "How then...how the hell do we get home if we don't have a portal like it made?"

"Well...there are some good news and...bad news." Poopenschmir reasoned.

DK eyerolled. "Oh great, I'd love to hear this part."

"Well, the good news is...this." He reached into the inner pockets of his lab coat, pulling out what looked like a mass of scrap metal, wires, and a computerized chip that was all intact.

Corrin raised a brow, giving the material in front of him a suspicious look. "Um...and what might this be, exactly?"

Poopenschmir immediately perked up. "Yes, of course! This, dear boy, is what I found in the canyons the last couple days! They are proof that the Immersifier was indeed brought here to this realm! If its fragments are here, then I just might be able to fix it!"

"Really?" Freya gave him a skeptical brow.

"Yes! But of course...that brings me to the bad news...I-I'm afraid this was all that I found in the, eh...certain place. Which means that they'll most likely be scattered all across the region, too...along with the Pokémon."

DK lifted his head and groaned towards the heavens. "I knew it! I freaking knew it! See?! I knew that this was the best part! Now we have to find this wackjob of a doctor's trinkets, as well as find all the Pokémon, and stop a war! As if we weren't in enough trouble already~!" He facepalmed and shook his head in his growing grief. "Please, Arceus, just kill me right now! Please let this be a dream!"

"Relax, Chef DK. We'll work something out, I'm sure." Corrin reasoned, turning back towards Poopenschmir. "So then, you can remake the machine if you had enough parts, right?"

"Yes, of course! But don't worry, I am not alone! For I have my help with me!" Poopenschmir reached into his pocket, pulling out a Poke Ball. "Now, come on out...Rotom!"

He lobbed the Poke Ball into the air, causing the capsule to expel energy that morphed before everyone's eyes. Appearing in front of them was a very small red creature, with a body surrounded by plasma with electrical zigzag markings for makeshift appendages. Its blue eyes and small smile made it an indication that it wasn't organic.

Rotom mischievously smirked at all the new faces present before it. "(Look at these bright young faces!)" He looked at Gunter. "(...well, most of them. Hehehe...)"

Corrin's eyes widened once more. "A Pokémon?"

"So even he has Pokémon of his own." Azura realized.

Felicia's face showed complete shock. "Is that thing...actually made of lightning?"

Rotom turned towards her. "(Oh, wanna get a closer look?)" It suddenly zipped its body in a zigzag, reappearing dangerously close to Felicia's face. She recoiled in shock, earning another cackle from it. "(And that's not all~!)" It zipped constantly around Felicia, making her turn and look at her surroundings constantly. It streamed like actual lightning across her line of sight!

"My word, sire...what a very peculiar specimen that is. I've never seen anything like it before." Gunter admitted.

"Right, I'll fill you in on what's been happening soon." Corrin told him.

"A Rotom..." Evan pulled out his PokeDex, using the device to identify the plasmatic being making Felicia uncomfortable.

"Rotom, the Plasma Pokémon. With a body made of plasma, it can inhabit all sorts of machines. It loves to surprise others."

"(And that's true~!)" Rotom suddenly zipped away from Felicia to appear before Evan, making him lean back with slightly widened eyes. "(Hello~! Hehehehe~)"

Before Evan could say even a word, Rotom suddenly zipped away from sight. It appeared besides Poopenschmir as the doctor was holding up his Poke Ball. "Okay Rotom, that will do. Now, back in the ball you go!"

Rotom raised its head, shaking furiously. "(Uh...nope!)" Suddenly, it beamed elsewhere, much to Poopenschmir's chagrin.

"Hey! You stop that now! Or no electricity for you! GET BACK IN YOUR BALL!" Poopenschmir angrily followed Rotom, roaring as he fired red lasers from his Poke Ball that Rotom easily evaded. Every time it missed, it snickered mischievously.

Nathan watched them race around the castle grounds like a bunch of lunatics, making him roll his eyes with a less than amused expression. 'Well, we're screwed.'

Corrin turned away from the group to go over towards Lilith. The little dragon sat on ger crystal ball with a bright smile. "I'm glad to see that you've all returned safe and sound, Lord Corrin. It makes me happy to see that you're doing well on your quest."

Corrin gave her a smile back in return. "Thank you, Lilith. Sorry for being away for so long."

The little dragon nodded in understanding. "It's quite alright. There's no need for you to feel so concerned for me...but your consideration I greatly admire." She saw Poopenschmir chase Rotom behind Corrin, firing more red lasers that missed. "I also see that you've brought back with you some more company."

Gunter turned towards the conversation, his eyes widening upon recognizing the voice. The genuine shock on his face only served to intensify. "That voice...could that really be?" He stepped a little closer, with Larvitar following close behind. "Miss Lilith?"

"Hello to you as well, Lord Gunter." Lilith greeted with a respectful bow.

"I see...that really is you. So then...this is the form that you take now?"

She nodded sagely. "Yes, this is my true form. I hope that it doesn't disturb you."

Gunter managed a meek chuckle. "Well now...I certainly say this will take some getting used to. Don't worry, Lilith. For what it's worth, knowing that you are sound enough is more than plenty for this old soldier. I'm sure that Milord will fill me in on the details soon enough." He turned to give him an expectant grin. "Isn't that right?"

Corrin nodded and smiled. "Yes, I'll fill you in on everything." He turned towards Lilith. "Lilith, I'm sorry to have asked so much from you already, but is there a chance we can forge some Dragon Veins to give Gunter and the doctor a place to stay?"

Lilith waged her tails merrily. "You're in luck, Lord Corrin. With the timespan between your venture, I was able to store up on Dragon Veins. I understand your necessities well, so stand back and allow me to take care of that for you."

Corrin and Gunter gave each other looks before abiding by Lilith's warning. They all took a step back and saw her face the area where the small houses and dormitories were located. They watched as her eyes closed and the orb shined brightly beneath her. The ground beneath everyone began to shake once again, much to their surprise.

"W-woah, man! What's going on?!" Damon shakily shouted.

"She's using her powers again. Look alive!" Keith exclaimed, earning a deadpan look from Damon.

"...fo', I think you did yourself dirty with saying dat."

"Why?" Keith fell silent for a moment for him to realize what Damon meant. "Oh...Oh, I see." He grunted. "Fine, guess this makes us even."

Lilith's eyes flashed open as she expelled her power. Several incantations erupted from the ground in various places. The runes shined and materialized the accommodations that she mentioned. Another small house lined up beside the complex along with the rest of the other houses. In another part of the castle's grounds adjacent to the complexes was a fairly large structure that resembled a bath house. And last, but not least, one more structure that sat rather close to the baren fields near Lilith's shrine. It materialized into a medium-sized shack that had a pleasant smell coming from it.

"There! That should fix you all up quite nicely!" Lilith chirped.

Gunter nodded in gratitude. "I appreciate your usage of power for my sake, Lilith. I am in your care."

"Wait...what did you make this time?" DK questioned, looking at the two extra set of buildings. He saw the one closest to the dorms. It looked oddly enticing. "That looks kinda like a...a..."

Lilith chuckled. "A bathhouse? Yes, it is. And I also took great care in making a mess hall to accommodate you all nicely as well."

DK went slackjawed. He couldn't believe what he had just heard. Did he hear that right? A bathhouse? A mess hall? If there was a mess hall, there had to be a kitchen. His body shook as he fell to his knees, looking like he was about to cry from utter joy. With everything he went through; all the pain, all the hell with fighting for his life, he can finally settle down and relax. He started sniffling, much to the confusion of everyone around him.

"Uh, Chef DK? You okay?" Evan worried. "Chef DK...?"

DK sniffled, but wiped his nose and looked up at Lilith with arms spread wide with a deep, happy smile. "You have no idea what great things you've done for me~!" he praised. "Thank you! Thankyouthankyouthankyou! OH MY GOD~! You hear that, Farfetch'd?! WE FINALLY GET OUR OWN KITCHEN! WOOHOOHOOHOO~!"

Farfetch'd sighed, turning away embarrassingly. "(Yeah, yeah, we heard you before man, no need to make a big fuss about it.)" He eyerolled away. '(If he's that good outside the kitchen, I fear for those poor souls' lives when they see him in the kitchen.)'

DK shot up to his feet with rejuvenated energy. "Just leave it to me! I'll make a meal that'll knock you all dead!" He scampered away with a giddy giggle, with Farfetch'd flying right behind him away from the others.

"Wait, Chef DK! What about..." Corrin was about to reach out to him, but the chef was already out of earshot. He frowned heavily as dreadful thoughts arose. "Shouldn't...someone tell him about his cooking?"

Felicia nervously smiled. "Um...l-let's just try and get settled back in first, alright?"

Corrin looked back at her, returning to his usual confident disposition. "You're right. Gunter, let's head this way. Let's make sure your steed is fed and nourished, too."

"Of course." Gunter followed along, with the others also following suit to their own needs. Meanwhile, Poopenschmir was still chasing Rotom as it maniacally laughed.

"You...you meanie! Get back here! You are definitely not going to have electricity for supper!"

"Oh my god! This pantry is stocked! THANK YOU SWEET LILITH~!" DK shouted from the vast distance.

The interior of the bathhouse was something else. And by something else, that meant a whole new level of awe for Evan and the others. While Corrin went to settle in Gunter, they all went inside to scope the bathhouse to see what they would be dealing with. And suffice to say they weren't disappointed.

"Woah...so this is a bathhouse?" Evan scoped the whole area with widened eyes. He heard about the hot springs in the Hoenn region, how they were the main tourist attraction for the folks of Lavaridge Town. But this was something else altogether.

The entire building was one massive floor, with sleek stone tiling that was water resistant. There was a main lounge spring that sat in the dead center, with steps for those who wanted to get deeper than just put their ankles in. There were two other sides of the massive expanse. The left-hand side had a blue sign on it, and the other had a red sign to signal the gender-different bathing areas. There was a small fountain stream coming from the side of the lounge spa that poured into it for a relaxing sound.

Even without getting in the waters, they could feel the humidity in the air already swelling their eyes. To some like Evan, it was enticing. It was definitely a margin up bathing in some dirty pond. Having a filtered atmosphere with clean water was far more accommodating than anything he had thought they would have to endure.

"Ooooh, fo', now dis I can get behind, man." Damon hummed. "I can sink ma dirty ass right in that big tub over dere."

"(Yeah man, save some of dat drip for me, too. Gotta get dis dirt off between my fingers.)" Scraggy loosely dangled a hand, limply flailing his hand.

Azura took a deep inhale of the misty air, a humble smile crossing her lips. "The air is just right. We should be able to purify our dried skins quite nicely in here."

Freya stretched her arms up, trying to loosen them in preparation. "This is going to feel so nice. Been waiting for a good bath since I came here."

"Yes, I'm looking forward to this, too." Felicia nervously chuckled, before realizing something. "Oh! But wait, where are those other boys?"

"What?" Evan looked around, realizing something was off about their numbers. He knew Corrin and Gunter were out, as was DK on account of a potential cooking spree. But he was quick to realize who it was that was missing. "Oh! You mean Keith and Nathan?"

"Yes, those two. Where are they you think?"

Damon smacked his lips. "Man, who gives a fuck girl? I ain't waiting. Let's go, Scrags."

"(Sweet deal.)" Scraggy followed Damon into the door with the blue sign over it to indicate it was for the men.

Evan chose to shrug it off and follow. He grabbed a nearby towel sitting on a rack and proceeded while Freya, Felicia, and Azura pursued their own side. The instant both sides closed the doors, the sounds of splashes and sighs filled the bathhouse.

Nathan was walking outside within the fortress' borders. With the fresh air he ever so preferred over the big crowds, he could finally get some peace and quiet. He had Bagon and Wimpod beside him, allowing the two to have their open space included. Although Wimpod didn't seem to mind the slightly more accommodating atmosphere, Bagon seemed all for it. He seemed in a light mood as he lifted his head, smelling the realm's tranquil breeze.

"(Have to say, this realm ain't half-bad. Sure, there's a bunch of those noisy humans, but it looks like they're managing to get along.)" Bagon commented.

Wimpod squirmed beside him. "(I-I guess so. I'm still so nervous. Just thinking about humans makes my insides just want to...pop out!)"

Bagon raised a brow. "(Was that because of what happened, or is it some kind of common gene?)"

"(Um...both?)"

Bagon wanted to add something, but he ultimately didn't find much of a counter for Wimpod. Aside from that, he was downright exhausted. He shrugged it off and continued walking by Nathan's side.

As Nathan was looking around the new accommodations added to their little safe haven, he couldn't help but notice something in the distance. He furrowed his brow as he saw something past Lilith's shrine that he recognized. "The hell...?"

In front of the fields adjacent to the mess hall, Keith felt around the dirt with the tip of the makeshift cane. He meshed it into the ground before pulling away. His Mightyena sniffed the spot and began digging.

"Good girl." He praised her.

Mightyena waged her tail in glee for the praise, but suddenly snarled as she turned away.

"Someone there?" Keith turned in the direction of her snarl. Nathan approached with Bagon beside him. Wimpod cowered behind Bagon for a makeshift shield from Mightyena.

"Relax...it's just me."

Keith immediately dropped his guard. "Oh, Nathan. Fancy knowing you're here. I honestly thought you went with everyone else to bathe and freshen up."

Nathan turned away, flicking his wrist dismissively. "I'm not a big fan of big crowds. I prefer it when it's just me. I like my privacy and peace of mind."

Keith sagely nodded. "I see. I respect that."

"I could be asking you the same thing. Shouldn't you be bathing yourself?"

Keith kept an outgoing smile as he continued feeling the soft spots in the dirt. "It was tempting...and then I realized that would have been a good spot to drown me if Damon had the chance." He chuckled. "Just kidding. Actually, I just wanted to get familiar with my surroundings is all. Now, if I'm not mistaken, this feels much like soil. That true?"

Nathan looked down at the dirt, seeing the numerous holes that were spread in an even line covering a sizeable quarter of the crop field. "Yeah? That why you had Mightyena digging up holes?"

Keith smiled. "You're in the ballpark, I'll say that much. But, in truth...there's a reason to digging these up. And no, Nathan, nothing to do with bones I'm afraid." He reached into his coat pocket, rummaging around for something. "Let's see...where is it...?" He felt something he recognized and pulled it out. "Aha! Here we go!"

He flicked his wrist and held up a soft pink berry in the shape of a heart. It had two green leaves on the small stem, and had a smooth, silky texture to its surface.

Nathan raised a brow, recognizing the berry. "Is that...a Pecha Berry?"

"Sure is. I'm surprised you recognize it. Anyways, watch this." Keith held his hand down as Mightyena drew near. She sniffed the berry before her tail waged. She took the berry from his hand and dropped it into the nearest open hole. As soon as it plopped in, she used a forepaw and stirred the dirt so the berry would be buried underneath.

Nathan watched the scene, looking at the buried berry and then Keith. The realization dawned upon him at what he was doing. "I get it now. You're using the fields to plant berries."

"Has anybody ever told you that you're a fast learner?" Keith reached into his pocket, pulling out a blue, round berry. Mightyena took the berry and repeated the process. "You see, Nathan. I realized something. If we're going to be out in the real world that moves at a much slower time rate than this one, then it's clear we should use this to our advantage. At least we can grow our own crops and plant plenty of berries for food and medicine."

"Huh...guess that works. Hey, hold on." He shot Keith a skeptic look. "If that were the case and you had all these berries on you, why didn't you share them before? Would have saved us a lot of trouble and our stomachs if that were the case."

"Oh, right. I see your point." He handed Mightyena another berry, this one being slightly bigger, with a firm texture and a blue coating on it, with a brown tip at the bottom's edge. He passed it to Mightyena as she continued planting them. "But in my defense, we don't have a lot of resources to work with at the moment, at least in this realm. If we ate the berries without knowledge of respawning some more, that would have been it."

Nathan hummed as he slowly nodded. He had to give credit where it was due. Keith was a lot more resourceful than he initially let on. First it was Poke Balls, then the berries. On top of that, he was also part of the International Police.

'I think I'm starting to see why Damon doesn't get along with him. This guy's like a jack in the box...you really can't tell what's under those sleeves of his.'

"Oh, Nathan. I do apologize, but could you lend me a hand? Mightyena needs an extra set to help pick up the pace." Keith insisted.

Nathan shrugged. "Sure, why not. It'll help kill time while the others are bathing." He nudged his head, to which Bagon and Wimpod followed. "C'mon you guys, might as well earn your keep."

Meanwhile, Corrin and Gunter were beside one another. Since Lilith had already used up her stored energy to make the bathhouse and mess hall, odds were that she didn't have enough to congregate a small stable for Gunter's steed. It took a little time, but with enough elbow grease and Gunter's second-hand experience, they were able to make a small area enclosed by pikes and wood, with rope lacing pieces together to make a gate. It provided a suitable resting area for Gunter's steed. And thanks to Corrin's usage of the Yato, he was able to cut open a log and use the nearby lake water for means of a reservoir for the horse's thirst.

While they were building the small compound, Corrin was able to use the time manageable to catch up with Gunter. He made sure to leave nothing out, with the exception of mentioning Valla or Anankos. He told him about everything that he's learned, from his lineage as Mikoto's son, to learning the real origins of the creatures known as Pokémon, as well as the few people like Evan and Freya. He even told how he had gotten his own Pokémon.

With all the explanations he presented to him, he half-expected Gunter to label him as disillusioned. But luckily, that wasn't the case. In fact, he seemed more invested than ever.

"I see...I had no idea." Were the first words that Gunter let out. "Milord, it certainly sounds like you've found yourself quite a lot of trouble while I was away." He chuckled.

"Honestly, I'm just glad that you were believe me." Corrin sighed. "With everything that's happened, I doubt that anyone would find it easy to understand."

Gunter hummed, putting a hand to his chin. "Hmmm...yes, I suppose to a commoner's standpoint, that is understandable. Your case wouldn't hold up much footing." He smirked. "But, I've seen it with my own eyes. It stands to reason that alone is evidence for me to not question you."

"Gunter..."

"And besides..." He turned towards Larvitar, who stood beside him. He put a hand down on his head. "It certainly answers where this little intelligent one came from."

"(Thank you...but really, you don't really have to pet me up there. My horn gets in the way.)" Larvitar muttered low. However, Gunter seemed aware of that fact and patted his forehead, much to his chagrin.

"So, Milord, if I may ask..." Gunter pulled himself up, giving Corrin a studious look. "There was something that I've been meaning to ask of you."

Corrin raised a brow in his growing skepticism. "Sure, what is it?"

"You seem to have gotten adapted quite well to these...Pokémon, as they say. I also know that it is in part because of your new acquaintances as of recently. I am sworn to do my part and help you in any way that I can, but as you know, I know very little about how to handle these...specimen." He looked down at Larvitar, before looking back up. "So if it's not much trouble, Milord, I would like you to teach me whatever it is that you have learned so that I may better serve. That is, if you're willing."

Corrin stepped back in mild surprise. He was genuinely surprised with what Gunter asked of him. Normally, it was the other way around with Corrin asking Gunter to train him. He's already learned plenty when it came to fighting because of him. To hear his retainer – his mentor – say that he wanted to learn from him was as shocking as it was humbling.

"Gunter...a-are you sure?"

Gunter grinned and nodded. "Yes, of course. It would be my pleasure to learn under you." He looked down at Larvitar. "Isn't that right...Larvitar, was it?"

Larvitar nodded. "(Yes, you looked after me when I had nowhere else to turn to. I'll be obliged to help however I can as well. That is, if you'll let me.)"

Corrin had his doubts. He had every right to doubt that he was the best person to teach Gunter about Pokémon. Add that to the fact that he just barely scratched the surface of Pokémon himself. It would have made sense to ask Evan since he was the more intelligent one. Not to mention, had it not been for his coordination and strategies, he was certain that he and Riolu would have been in much tighter spots.

But, on the other hand, it wasn't like Gunter had much familiarity with Evan. It would seem rather awkward to ask for assistance from him when they had no connections or past conversations, so he could understand if Gunter had an ulterior motive than just wanting to ask him of all people. But still, Corrin knew that if Evan wasn't around, he would have to step up. Someone had to. He had the Yato, a sword that chose him to lead to this world's peace. He had to at least try to make an example as best he could.

With that mentality, he stepped up towards Gunter with a confident leer. "...okay. I'll be honest with you, Gunter. I honestly don't know much about Pokémon myself." He flashed a grin. "But, I can at least show you what I've learned so far if that will mean anything."

Gunter gave a firm nod. "I'm truly glad, Lord Corrin. Is now a good time?"

"Yeah. Let's go find someplace with some open space."

Corrin walked off, with Gunter and Larvitar following closely behind.

They both arrived at the area where he, Azura, and Evan had their last battle the last time they were all here. Corrin walked over towards his spot on the eastern section, while Gunter stepped towards the western end and turned around to face him.

"Is this enough room for us?" Gunter inquired, looking at the space between them.

Corrin gave him a nod. "Yes. This should be enough. Now, have Larvitar step up, and I'll bring out my Riolu."

"Understood." He turned towards Larvitar. "Larvitar...go!"

Larvitar nodded and stepped in front. "(I'm ready. Let's get this started.)" He gave Corrin a watchful look, inspecting every move that he would make.

Corrin took a deep breath through his nose before exhaling to relax his muscles. He clenched his Poke Ball and threw the capsule outwards. "Alright Riolu...I choose you!"

The capsule sent out Riolu, who landed on a knee before ascending to both his legs. He held up his arms and clutched his paws tightly. "(I'm ready! Let's go!)"

'(He looks strong. It isn't wise to confront him head-on without knowing what moves he'll make against me.)' Larvitar spread his legs and kept his eyes fixed on Riolu.

Riolu stood readily in wait of Corrin's first command. 'I need to make my moves carefully. Who knows what Larvitar can...' It was just then that he came to a realization. "Hold on, Gunter."

"Hm, yes, Lord Corrin? Is something the matter?"

"Usually when a Pokémon attacks, they use some kind of move or technique. Do you know the techniques that your Lavitar knows?"

Gunter frowned, realizing the flaw that Corrin pointed out. "I'm afraid not. I suppose that I have seen some of his attacks before, but as far as names go, that eludes me...unfortunately."

Corrin frowned. It would have been easier to call an attack name, that way it would be a lot easier for both Gunter and Larvitar. He knew also that Evan had that device that knew everything about a Pokémon. In hindsight, he should have waited to know what moves he would do.

A low, exhausted breathing picked up from beside them. They both turned to look over at a familiar figure that was sauntering to a stop. Poopenschmir eventually came to a halt, huffing in deep exasperation. "I...I...phew...I think I need my second wind...phew..."

"Doctor Poopenschmir!" Corrin gasped.

"H-huh?!" Poopenschmir perked up, immediately turning towards Corrin. "O-oh! It's you. Oh...sorry, I was just catching my breath. That little leech had me running about everywhere, so..."

"I see. Sorry about that, but do you by chance know a little about Pokémon attacks, Doctor?"

Poopenschmir looked taken back by the request. "Er, pardon?"

"You see, we were trying to understand what kind of moves or attacks this Larvitar knew. Gunter and I weren't aware and Evan isn't around, so we were hoping that you knew anything about it."

"Larvitar?" Poopenschmir looked down at Larvitar, his look turning more and more quizzical by the second. He rubbed his chin as his body still shook slightly. "Hmmmm...yes. I should be able to tell." He jolted up. "Yes! Just have it battle for a little bit, and I will know!"

Corrin gave him a nod of gratitude. "Thanks, Doctor." He turned towards Gunter. "You heard that?"

Gunter nodded. "I most certainly did. Then I shall have Larvitar battle by himself for a little bit until I learn of his moves. Now then, Larvitar...show me what you can do!"

"(Understood!)" Larvitar nodded, before he raised his tiny arms up into the air. A faint glow appeared around his body before silver energy orbs appeared overhead. Larvitar molded them into large rocks that he controlled with his arms and motioned them down onto Riolu.

"Riolu, quick! Evade that!" Corrin commanded.

Riolu eyed the downward rocks carefully. He raced around the area, keeping his eyes up the entire time as rocks fell around him. Some of them smashed to pieces upon impact, but others only split in half or into smaller pieces. Riolu was able to evade them all and veered back towards Corrin, leaving large hobbles of rock between him and Larvitar.

"It can summon earth from above?!" Corrin's eyes were wide in disbelief.

Gunter turned towards Poopenschmir. "What attack was that one called?"

"Oh, yes! That one is called Rock Slide. It is a Rock-type move that unleashes rocks like they were rain onto the opponents...but eh, believe me when I say, it's best not to be on the receiving end of such an attack."

"I see. That looked effective. How many moves does it have?"

"A Pokémon can learn up to four. So there's a chance you can still have three more at your disposal. Give'em a try!"

"I understand." Gunter reached out his arm to direct. "Now Larvitar, show me more of your power!"

Larvitar nodded in understanding. He raced up past the rocks with little difficulty. He got within range of Riolu and pounced with his maw glowing faintly.

'I know that move! That's Bite!' Corrin remembered well what that did. He also remembered its effects, so he knew what he had to do – parry! "Riolu, Metal Claw!"

Riolu swiped both his arms across, unveiling metallic energy claws from his wrists. He crossed them before lunging at Larvitar. "(Eat metal!)" He pushed the energy steel against Larvitar's jawline when the two attacks made contact. Shimmering silver sparks crackled in the air between them as they were in a stalemate for dominance. After several seconds, they both finally let up and backed off from each other.

"Oh! That one was Bite!" Poopenschmir explained. "That moves bites down, and it potentially flinches them...i-it is really self-explanatory when you think about it."

Corrin frowned. He knew he had to be careful with this opponent. It wasn't anything like Evan's Wartortle back when it was a Squirtle in their battle. Its battling style was much different, and he knew that.

'We need more power. But how...!' His eyes widened upon realization. 'Wait...that new move we just learned! That might work!' He gave Riolu a confident glare. "Alright then Riolu, let's use Work Up!"

Riolu grunted as he spread his legs. He exhaled before his body flared up in a red aura, increasing his Attack and Special Attack stages.

"Lord Corrin, what might that be?" Gunter inquired.

"I learned this from Evan. Apparently, Pokémon attacks can do more than just damage. Some can also lower or increase your potential. Riolu's move that he used just now increases his offenses, so our attacks are much stronger than they were before."

Gunter grinned, satisfied with the answer. "I understand. So that would mean if you were to attack, I would take more damage. Then it's fair that I try to avoid that." He looked down at Larvitar. "Larvitar, attack him before he uses his next move!"

"(Alright, I'll do it...carefully.)" Larvitar's body surrounded itself in a bright purple aura. He spread his heels and closed the gap between himself and Riolu. As he reeled his head back, all the bright purple aura around him converged to a single point into the horn above. He brought the horn down onto Riolu, sending him sliding on his heels back towards Corrin to a halt.

"Riolu!" Corrin looked shocked at Larvitar. 'That move was strong! But it didn't seem to do much damage though...is that because of those types that Evan mentioned?'

Poopenschmir's eyes widened beneath his glasses. "Oh! That one right there was Payback! It is another attack where the user can inflict twice the power if it was used after an opponent's attack."

"I see. That sounds very effective." Gunter stated matter-of-factly. "Very well then, Larvitar, let's retain our offenses then." He reached his arm out to give a command. "Now, use Rock Slide!"

"Riolu, use Metal Claw!"

Larvitar cried out as he raised his arms o=up, making silver energy orbs that molded into solid rocks. He threw them down onto Riolu, who charged ahead with his metallic energy claws. The rocks came down in front of him, and Riolu slashed them, making them crumble to pieces. He cleaved his way through as though his arms were blades and rushed into Larvitar, jumping into the air with a deep diagonal slash across his hardened chest. Larvitar cried out in pain as he was put onto his back and slid closer to Gunter.

Riolu jumped away, deactivating his energy claws. "(How was that?)"

Gunter looked mildly shocked...or as close to shocked as one could expect from his composed expression. He carefully watched as Larvitar stammered back to his feet keeping an arm over the small gash left by Riolu's attack. He looked at him with a pained expression.

"(I knew you had an ace up your sleeve...how careless of me.)" he grunted.

"It appears you were right, Lord Corrin. That attack was superb. Excellent job." Gunter praised.

"Thanks." Corrin looked modestly pleased with the compliment. He paused to think about what he did that made the difference between their attacks so different. He thought back to what Evan said that time.

"Last I checked, he's a Fighting-type, so his Fighting-type attacks have neither strengths nor weaknesses against Growlithe and Squirtle. This is probably good as time as any to tell you that even your attacks have types of their own."

'I think that I'm picking up on it now.' Corrin realized. 'So Metal Claw wasn't very effective against Water and Fire-types, but whatever type Larvitar is, my attack is the opposite. It's way stronger!'

Larvitar shook his head to steady himself from the damage. He looked back at Riolu with a cautious glare. "(I admit, that one had some serious bite to it...but how about this then!?)" His eyes suddenly glowed as an illusionary fixation of a face appeared in front of him. The evil face's aura made it seem darker than intended, and it was working as Riolu's body was surrounded by a large blue aura.

"What move was that one?" Corrin wondered aloud.

"THAT right there was Scary Face!" Poopenschmir announced matter-of-factly. "That attack doesn't do any damage at all, but, it lowers your opponent's movements by a large amount!"

'I get it. So it has speed-lowering effects like Evan's Butterfree has with that electrical web. And when he used Bubble sometimes...' Corrin was quick to realize what this meant. 'Which means we won't be as fast to dodge or counterattack.'

"I understand. So those are this one's four attacks I take it?" Gunter inquired.

Poopenschmir nodded. "Uh-huh. So go ahead!"

Gunter looked ahead, his composure readjusting as he was processing everything eh had just learned in a few minutes. "In that case..." He reached his arm out. "Use Rock Slide!"

Larvitar cried out as he repeated the silver outlines above, molding them into rocks that hung above in the air that he controlled with his arm movement. He swung his arm down and made all the rocks fall onto Riolu. This time, Riolu was too slow to act and ended up bracing himself as he was slammed by heavy rocks that shattered on him upon impact. Eruptions of dust and crumbled stone faltered around him, much to Corrin's shock.

"Riolu! No!"

The dust quickly dissipated, revealing Riolu as he stammered about around the loose gravel and split stone. He visibly cringed and backpedaled with a grunt. "(Gnnngh...crap, I'm flinching!)" He sneered.

A red aura enveloped his body just then, intensifying his Speed by a little. This didn't go unnoticed by Corrin. "Huh? Wait, that aura..."

He remembered seeing that similar instance when he was battling Evan. When his Counter failed after bringing from being bitten, Riolu suddenly got a red aura just like that and began to move faster. He knew that much.

'If that happened...does this mean that Rock Slide just made Riolu flinch like Evan said Bite can do? If that's true...does this mean Riolu's Ability has to do with flinching?'

In his inquiry, Gunter decided to try out some more attacks. "Let's try and do more damage, shall we? Use Bite!" Larvitar rushed after Riolu, his maw opening wide.

"Riolu, Counter!" Corrin shouted on reflex. 'Counter works on physical attacks. This should work!'

Riolu crossed his arms as a reflective, red-orange coating appeared over his entire body. He stood tall while Larvitar closed the gap and bit down onto his arm. The attack buffered Riolu, making him grunt in pain and lose footing.

"(GAH!)" He backpedaled away, his body's nerves cringing again from being bitten. The coating on his frame receded as he visibly flinched again. "(A-again...?!)"

'Another flinch...' Corrin grunted. Riolu looked visibly worn out. At this rate, he knew that he couldn't take another attack like that again. Otherwise, it would be bad news for him.

But another red aura appeared around him, enhancing his Speed yet again. Riolu exhaled and glared ahead once more.

"Once more, Larvitar! Bite!" Gunter declared the attack, in which Larvitar went to rush after Riolu.

'We should match that by now!' Corrin realized. "Riolu, use Metal Claw!"

Riolu's eyes widened with a brighten sheen to them. With a viscous cry, he crossed his arms and swiped across, making metallic energy claws appear once more. He brought one back and shot forward with an uproarious battle cry. The energy claws met the jaws again at a quick rate that surprised Gunter and Larvitar. Not only that, but they were stronger than before, causing the stalemate to quickly deplete against Larvitar.

Riolu let out a louder cry as he brought his other arm back, slinging it forward with a powerful swipe into Larvitar. The impact was so strong that it made Larvitar cry out again as he slid on his back away with pined grunts.

Gunter looked surprised. "But how? I thought Larvitar had lowered Riolu's movements!?"

Riolu backpedaled away, his claws retreating as a red aura engulfed his body, increasing his Attack. The low secondary effect of Metal Claw kicked in to make him feel even stronger.

"I think...that it has to do with Riolu's Ability!" Corrin realized.

"Ability?" Gunter questioned.

"Yeah, Evan explained about those, too. Pokémon have these powers called Abilities that helps them out in battles. I think...I think that Riolu's Ability!" Corrin looked down at Riolu, who glanced back. "Right?"

Riolu nodded. "(You got it.)"

Gunter was quick to regain his composition. "I see...then it's logical to keep his movements slow." With a motive, he reached out. "Larvitar, do it! Scary Face!"

Larvitar grunted. He was in so much pain from the damage he had taken earlier. But he persevered and glared at Riolu. Another illusionary face with a sinister smile appeared before him, causing another dense blue aura to shine on Riolu's frame, once again lowering his Speed.

'I need to end this now. There has to be something else that I...' Corrin's eyes widened at another realization. 'Wait...that should work!'

Gunter grinned with energy. "Sorry, Milord, but this is where it's checkmate. Larvitar, Rock Slide!" Larvitar raised his arms, ready to mold more rocks high overhead.

"(Corrin! Now!)"Riolu shouted.

Reading the signal, Corrin reached outwards. "Riolu, Feint!"

Riolu suddenly vanished from his spot, quickly weaving to and fro as he closed the gap between him and Larvitar as he was still molding the attack overhead. When he reappeared in front with a glowing paw reeled back, both he and Gunter looked surprised.

With no time to spare, Riolu's increased priority attack thrust into Larvitar's scraped abdomen. The added Attack increase from Work Up and Metal Claw added extra flare to the move's power that made Larvitar's body flare in stinging sensations. The results were Larvitar careening onto his back as the energy above him diffused before the move could be finished. Riolu pulled back his fist, letting out a deep sigh of relief.

Larvitar laid on the ground with swirls for eyes, indicating that he lost the last of his stamina.

Corrin eased up some. "Looks like that's it. We've won this one." He looked at Riolu, who glanced over his shoulder and grinned approvingly.

Gunter looked down at Larvitar, quickly realizing that he had just lost. "I see...very well done, Milord." He grinned in his own approval. "I must admit, I wasn't expecting for your Riolu to pick up that fast. Was that because of its Ability as well?"

Corrin shook his head. "No. Some attacks just move faster than others, no matter how fast r slow the user in. I just know this because of the few times I've seen it used compared to Riolu's other attacks."

"I see...seems that I have much to learn about Pokémon. But I most certainly enjoyed this experience. Thank you for showing me."

Corrin grinned back. "It's nothing. To be honest, I'm still learning myself. I'm sure that we have a lot to know about all this about Pokémon and about their types and how important they might be...but I'm sure we'll figure it out together. What do you say?"

Gunter snickered. "I look forward to the progress we will be making."

Larvitar groaned as he weakly opened his eyes. He gradually sat back up as his body still ached from the last attack's shock. "(...I...wasn't expecting that. That took me by surprise...)"

Gunter kneeled before Larvitar with a small grin. "You've shown me your skills. You do well in battle, Larvitar. Thank you."

Larvitar faintly smiled back, appreciative of his words. "(Thank you. I'll try harder next time...)"

"Woooo~! Man, talk about a battle guys! Looks like you guys really worked up a sweat out there!" Everyone heard the voice from nearby. They all adverted their attention towards DK and Farfetch'd as they walked back from the mess hall.

"Oh, Chef DK, you already cooked something?" Corrin inquired, remaining as neutral as possible in tone. He didn't want to sound too half-hearted for the sake of his feelings. He wasn't sure what to expect from him after what he cooked last time.

"Ho-ho~! Hell yeah I did! I tell ya, the little dragon does wonders! It has a fully stocked pantry and everything! Not bad for my first big gig, haha!" He cleared his throat. "But anyways, I bet you're all hungry, so how's about you all sit down to some boiled bread~!"

Corrin blinked as he processed this. Gunter and Poopenschmir exchanged wary looks as if they thought they had to do something that risked their lives. "Boiled...bread?"

DK looked at him as if it was obvious. "Yeah? What, ever heard of boiled bread?"

"But...doesn't the bread just get soggy?"

"I mean, just a little. But I threw in some butter so it'll have a little flavor. Now you all hungry? Come on, soup's on!"

DK zoomed away to leave the group to look at each other in question. They wanted to say something, but they needed to eat. At this point, they could eat anything. They braced themselves and their stomachs as they embarked for the mess hall to dine on something edible.

Their evening had quickly turned to a new dawn. Evan was sound asleep in his bed that sat across from Freya's. With only a small amount of light permeating through their exposed doorway, the only substitute of a door that was available was a thin green curtain that still permeated light through its fabrics.

Evan's eyes fluttered open...and the first thing he felt not even a few seconds into his awakened state was a sore body. Everything stung, from his ankles, to his hips, to his arms. It felt like he was hit by a cargo train, if trains were even a thing in this world...or the other world? Honestly, the whole aspect of a world within another world gave him a headache. He chose to omit that and swivel his body upright.

He turned his head towards the thin curtains, noticing the light piercing through it. 'Guess it's morning already.' He looked towards Freya on the other side, her Pokémon all lounging and sound asleep either on or around her bed. The older woman was sleeping on her side away from him.

Assuming that she was still asleep, Evan wasn't sure if he should wake her just yet. His mind was still a haze from the hellish couple days he endured. If last night served any meaning, he was still exhausted.

His attention averted towards his Pokémon that were sleeping soundly. His Wartortle, Butterfree, Growlithe, and Bellsprout all looked like they were still asleep too, and he couldn't blame them for that. "Looks like everyone is exhausted..." He looked past them towards his shoes. More accurately, where the sword he found yesterday was leaning against the wall. He stared at it like he was contemplating the meaning of life if one saw him right now. It was hard-pressed to tell what was going on inside Evan's head, but the way he stared at the Killing Edge was enough to show his skin crawling.

Flashes of past epiphanies came to mind. He thought about the village and how he barely slew a Faceless. Not only that, but he was flimsy and lost the bronze katana during Corrin's rampage back in the township. All those instances where he could have been more versatile with helping others other than just his Pokémon. Sure, having his Pokémon around really did a number, but there were times when it came too close for comfort for his own good.

'I need to do something about this...'

A small yawn came from his Pokémon. He looked down at them, realizing that they were starting to come around.

"(Oh man, that was a good sleep!)" Growlithe yawned, arching his body back on his hindlegs. "(I feel so energetic to help the Boss today!)"

"(Ugh, can you keep it down over there? It's too early for this...)" Bellsprout groaned, turning away grumpily.

Growlithe wagged his tail, tilting his head. "(Oh, you're the new one, right? Nice to meet ya!)"

"(Yeah, yeah.)" She yawned. "(Look, just don't spew your flames at me, alright? I'm not saying that I don't like you or anything, but I'd rather not go around looking like charred campfire remains. I have an image I like to keep.)"

"(Uh...okay?)" Growlithe turned towards Evan, his eyes widening in glee. "(Oh, Boss is awake!)" He raced past Bellsprout and sprung up onto Evan's lap, looking happier than ever. "(Morning, Boss!)" he barked.

Evan petted Growlithe's head, grinning happily. "Morning, Growlithe. Glad to see you have spirit today." He rolled his attention towards Wartortle and Butterfree, both yawning and getting back up. He knew he would have to worry about his little crisis later. Right now, since they were up, they had to get ready for the day.

"Mmmmm..." Evan heard a familiar moan from across the treehouse. He noticed Freya stirring onto her other side facing him.

"Rise and shine, sleeping beauty."

Freya weakly opened her eyes. "Evan...?"

"Yup. C'mon, up. It's morning. Better see what the game plan is today." He got up from his bed, with Freya moaning before she got up as well.

With a new day, everyone had themselves all cleaned up and ready. The entire group stood in front of Corrin and Evan, both looking put at the very small group that was accounted for.

"So then, I assume we all know what needs to be done?" Azura asked matter-of-factly.

Corrin nodded. "Yes. The plan remains unchanged. We need to bring Hoshido and Nohr together, but now we have to gather up all the lost Pokémon and any missing pieces to Doctor Poopenschmir's machine."

"Yes! Right-O!" Poopenschmir chirped. "A-and with the Immersifier fixed, I can fix up everything!"

"Well that's reassuring." Keith chimed in a neutral tone. "But, you know, that doesn't mean we should all go, right?"

"What's that mean?" Freya inquired.

"Well, truth be told, I have berries that I have growing that should really help us in the long run. If they're left unchecked, they could wither away with the stem of the tree. And with how much time passes here as opposed to the real world, we should have somebody stay behind and help them grow while we're working."

"Guess that makes sense." Evan figured. He wasn't going to argue with that point. He knew from his extra classes back in school that berries were very important in certain situations. Plus it served as excess meals in emergency situations.

"So...who's going to stay behind?" Freya wondered.

A hand raised up. "I'll stay."

Everyone turned their attention towards Nathan, who gave them all a neutral look.

"Nathan? Are you sure about this?" Corrin frowned in a warried tone.

Nathan didn't look amused, nor did he seem regretful at his decision. "Yeah, I don't see the problem. Besides, you need someone to stay behind and watch the Doctor, right? No telling what he can do unchecked." He shot a look at Poopenschmir, who seemed offended. "That's how this whole thing started, right?"

Keith nodded firmly. "Not a bad call there, Nathan."

"Well I-!" Poppenschmir was about to argue against Nathan's point, but began to realize that what he said may have been harsh, but also true to a fault. He gradually lost his traction on the conversation. "I, eh...I suppose that's true...alright, I'll stay. Besides, I'm no good at fighting...hehe..."

DK shot his hand up as well. "Guess you can count us out, too."

Corrin raised a brow. "You as well, Chef DK?"

DK shrugged. "Well I mean, I don't see why not. I can help with growing some crops, too. I mean time moves faster here, so gimme some time and I can grow some ingredients, I guess. There's some seedlings in that pantry in the mess hall that I've been meaning to look into."

Nobody was going to disagree with him. For some of them, this was a blessing in disguise. In Damon's case, it would mean one less annoying person that got in the way. In everyone else's case, it just meant a chance for DK to try recipes that might get better over time. At least, in theory.

Keith cleared his throat. "Well...thank you for contributing, Chef DK. If we find any berries or ingredients, we'll be sure to bring them back for you."

"Much appreciated, guys! C'mon, Farfetch'd, let's go cook'em up something good for them to try when they return!" With a cheerful disposition, DK swaggered off back towards the mess hall.

"Well, uh...dat solves dat. But, uh, what's we gonna do with de whole 'world' talk we be trying to void and all dat?" Damon asked.

"Right..." Corrin frowned. They need to find an option aside from flat-out saying it. He knew what would happen if they did. "Well, we'll just have to think as we go along without having to explain it. Hopefully they'll understand."

"Oh, okay. And if dey don't..." Damon held up his Glock. "We can always shoot'em."

"Um...how about we try that when everything else fails." Freya nervously insisted.

Damon eyerolled. "Pffft, whatever."

"Oh, right. That reminds me." Keith turned his head, trying to look around for something. "Gunter? Are you there?"

Gunter stepped up with Larvitar, both refreshed after their long night's worth of rest. "Yes, Keith, I'm here."

Keith reached into his pocket, pulling out a capsule that looked like a Poke Ball, However, unlike a normal Poke Ball, this one was primarily black, with yellow lines going along the top. He held it up to Gunter for him to take. "Here, this is for you. It's an Ultra Ball. You can use this to help better carry your Larvitar with you."

Gunter reached his hand out and took the capsule. He gave it a conspicuous gaze as he turned it about to inspect it. "So...this is the special device that can claim you one of these Pokémon?" He looked down at Larvitar, then back at the Ultra Ball. "I suppose that I must do something with it?"

"Well normally, you have to throw it at them. But I suppose in your case you can just tap their heads with it, too." Keith explained.

"You mean like this?" Gunter kneeled down and held the Ultra Ball up to Larvitar's forehead. He obediently looked up and waited patiently until the button connected with him. It suddenly opened, drawing him into it as red energy and clamped shut in Gunter's hold.

The capsule shook once, then twice, and then a third time. Finally, it clicked loudly and stopped vibrating to signal his capture.

"Congratulations, Gunter." Corrin smiled proudly.

Gunter stood back up, giving the Ultra Ball an admirable grin. "Thank you very much, Milord. Hopefully this way, I will serve you much better."

Azura hummed sagely as she managed a grin of her own. "Yes. Very well done. Now then, shall we all continue back to the real world?"

"Yeah, guess now that we have a plan, better make use of it." Evan stated. He turned towards Freya, who nodded in agreement. Seeing as how everyone was set, he clutched his Killing Edge and turned towards Corrin. "Alright, ready to go to work?"

"Ready." He turned towards Lilith. "Alright Lilith, we're ready."

Lilith nodded with a humble smile. "I wish you all the best."

Her orb shined brightly, emitting a strong light that surrounded the group that chose to go. Nathan, DK, and Poopenschmir took a small step back as they watched the group get swallowed by the light before engulfed in a powerful flare. By the time they looked back, they were already gone.

Alright, managed to get this one out before January came to an end! Hooray! So it's at this point that I decided to have some members diverge from the main group, rather than just have them all in one gigantic group. It would help out a lot in future battles so they don't overload or prolong situations. Hope you all enjoy!

Also, I didn't update the Party Data this chapter because not much has changed to make it noteworthy aside from Gunter catching himself a Larvitar. I'll be sure to make new Party Data for next chapter with whatever changes that might transpire.