Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Beacon of Hope

by 1Glimmershine

Niles, a human turned pokemon, is thrown into the perilous and unforgiving land of Yandor; solely inhabited by pokemon. For what purpose was he brought to this scarred world? Well, that is merely another conundrum that he must overcome to avoid an unknown fate most dire. Join him as he explores Yandor and the crumbling yet complex society these pokemon have formed. OCs welcome.

15. The Stake is Set

Lore of Yandor #15

Ah yes, legendary descendants; some of the most strong and revered mortal pokemon. Not even those most divine are resistant to the pull of love. It is common knowledge that every legendary, except Arceus, have identifiable genders. While rare, some blessed pokemon will, and have, found themselves in a relationship with one. Should they desire a child, the legendary's superior genes will always determine the child's species. This child is commonly referred to as a legendary descendant or demi-legend. They're not as powerful as their legendary parent, however. Nor do they possess the same reality altering abilities. Albeit, the more religious folks still respect and praise them almost as much. Furthermore, these descendants do not have as dominant of genes. Meaning, having a child with one will not guarantee them the same divinity. In the case that they get lucky, they'll be as powerful as any other descendant. With the waning of the legendaries' influence within Yandor, new descendants have been rarer than ever before. As far as it is known, the last one was born in the year 658. As a fair warning, do not expect these demi-legends to be morally pure. History has proven that they're just as susceptible to corruption and deplorable behavior like any mortal is. Ishae, that heartless fiend, is example number one.

---

Age of Zezula: Year 780: Location: Croudor Province: Uria Town Outskirts

"...They what..!?" Vermex staggered back in surprise, though he quickly regained his composure. "Last I checked, Pherenike scarcely possessed the backbone to make such an impetuous declaration."

The crowd of military officials began mumbling amongst each other.

Rukous bit his lip, mulling over the announcement's meaning. "Guess something finally pushed her over the edge."

Jessica was stricken with worry, her heart was shot with a sudden ache. "Oh no! Whimi…" she whispered somberly. "Why must everyone I know be put in danger…?"

Vermex harshly cleared his throat, causing the crowd to return to a silence. He peered over at the victreebel that had delivered the news.

"Enlighten me corporal," Vermex started, stroking his jawline. "What is her reasoning for this sudden and daring act?"

"No further information has been given, sir," the victreebel answered, saluting. "It also seems that she hasn't yet made an official announcement publicly. This is all according to what our allies over in Acron have provided us."

Vermex closed his eyes and hummed in thought. He pursed his lips in displeasure. Lumen…if I learn that you neglected to take my advice despite telling me that you have…

He opened his eyes, giving the corporal a gaze that demanded action. "Brief Zezula on the situation, tell him that I wish to call for an official COY meeting. It is my desire that Pherenike attend, if he can persuade her," he ordered, swiveling around to face Team Eternity. "In the meantime, I have matters to discuss with Team Eternity."

"I'll get right on it, sir!" The victreebel hastily hopped away towards Uria town.

"For the rest of you," Vermex began, the other soldiers turned to his attention. "Collect all the bodies on the battlefield. Should any of them possess a pulse, carry them off to Sacred Heart's Hospital immediately. Otherwise, deliver them to their home province."

"Aye aye, sir!" Each one of them did the Croudor salute before jogging to where the battle occurred.

Niles gulped as a nervous smile formed. "So uh, do mercenaries get involved with wars at all?" he asked Vermex.

"Under normal circumstances, it is not their responsibility," Vermex replied, folding his wings across his body. "However, it is within my jurisdiction to recruit them. In that case, they must, by law, listen to this order."

"That doesn't alleviate my worries, Vermex…"

"Worry yourself not," he bestowed a light smile. "Unless I am short of soldiers and/or require extra hands for more specified tasks, I would not bring mercenaries into it. The battlefield is not the mercenary prerogative, I understand this well."

Lulu patted her beak with her wing, lowering one eyelid. "And you're certain that it won't come to that?"

"If you ever question why the guards and military slack with small crimes, that is one of the reasons," Vermex answered, unfolding his wings. "It is at my behest that they are ever and always available to defend against larger scale threats. In Yandor, any moment could be one of destruction, as you have recently experienced."

Sheila, who had just woken up, was hobbling towards them. Niles was very relieved to see her, welcoming her with a fond grin.

Once she got up to the group, she tapped her foot. "You say that as if it's only a positive…" she commented, furrowing her brow. "Don't you think that's why the Fireforged got to this point? Small things build up. And don't underestimate small things or we will eat you up."

"And I don't suppose you believe you and your mother have remained untouched entirely on skill alone?"

"I-I…I can't speak for my mom, but I know I was certainly awful enough to get caught more often than not," she said with a despondent look before shaking her head. "E-except that doesn't justify it, at least…it shouldn't."

The edges of Vermex's lips curled downward. "I'm not attempting to crudely justify the current state of affairs with the law enforcement. Were this world forgiving, it would not be this way. I'm merely pointing out a fact that many tend to overlook due to surface level judgment of character."

Lulu clicked her beak. "I'm not sure what you're getting at here," she said, her tone vaguely puzzled. "My parents had always been frustrated with Croudor's lack of justice in this regard. Thieves and vandals can ruin lives too."

Sheila turned her head away, hiding her shame with her arm. She's right…that's part of the reason why I wanted to quit.

"I do not deny that, for I know that it is a rocky and erroneous stance to take," he stated, frowning pensively. "However, on the contrary, imprisonment or execution is also life ruining for criminals. Murderers and the like deserve it, but can you say the same about Sheila and her mother? Or even Nilsine, whom was ruthlessly manipulated."

"I suppose that I can see the logic in that," Lulu mused. If only partly

Rukous scoffed, his facial features compounding. "So you choose to let them run amok?" he questioned, mildly aggravated at the notion. "Pokemon like that do not learn their lesson without punishment."

"...To ostracize or execute anyone on first notice, without fully understanding why they have fallen into desperation, is folly. Our courts would grant them no chances, as I have little power over their scrutiny," Vermex countered as his eyes softened. "Ishae made me realize this … That is my personal philosophy on the subject. It is not my expectation to persuade you, but for you to see me eye to eye. Be aware that I was transparent with Croudor's pokemon about this when I was in the running, there has never been any dishonesty with my intentions. But, make no mistake, if given indisputable cause, criminals shall be dealt with."

"If that is the way of it, then there is no room for further argument," Rukous surmised calmly before his mouth became a lopsided frown. Although, I still feel it was a bad call to let Skorge run free. There is much he must answer for. There is no innocence inside that monster.

Nilsine took a deep breath and exhaled in a strained manner. "I..I shouldn't be here," she muttered with a troubled expression. "I'm partly to blame for my actions. I thought with my heart, cherished old memories, and they took advantage of it…"

Vermex wrapped a wing around her shoulders, gifting her with a look that provided a bit of solace. "Nilsine, please, you are the sole reason for Team Eternity and Hextra's survival," he reasoned. "You have proven that you have potential to make up for it. Prison will only serve to rip that opportunity from you. Moreover, you stuck by your family, and no one can spite you for that."

Nilsine clenched her fur dress tightly. He expects what I have already failed. My naive love for them, that's what led me astray, right?

"Tell me," she began, staring down Vermex with hollow eyes. "Would you let the death of a loved one drag you into the depths of depravity? Is it wrong to expect things to get better while never lifting a finger to make that change? To so strongly believe that your bonds are never truly broken even when they hurt you…"

"I…" Vermex appeared disheartened for a moment, his features desolate of that resolute professionalism he always kept on.

I have my answer then. Nilsine peered over at the sandy, golden dunes of Letarah.

Hextra, apparently wide awake now, rushed over to Vermex. She greeted him with a vexed look. "Where in the Neverrest were you, sir?! I had been getting my butt whooped so hard, and now here you are, late to the party," she suddenly remarked. She then noticed Vermex's joyless expression. "That's the first time I've seen such a gloomy face on you…"

He struggled to come with any words, opening his maw multiple times with no sounds to speak of.

"Vermex, you good?" Niles asked in a concerned tone, shocked to see the noivern so down. Nilsine really struck a chord with him, huh…?

Vermex's large, speaker-like ears perked up as his body shuddered itself free of sorrow. "My apologies, that was unbecoming of your representative," he gave a slight smirk to Hextra, sticking his red claws into his fluffy mane. "Glad to see you are still in high energy, Commander Hextra. I can't imagine how onerous of a fight it was for all of you. I wish I'd known you'd be going up against a malfarian."

"Yeah, and we could've used some reinforcements," Hextra glowered at the noivern, placing a hand on her hip.

Sheila squinted her eyes, digging into Vermex. "Surely the commotion would have alerted your military forces sooner. We were out here butting heads for hours," she contemplated. A cocky smirk spread upon her muzzle "Heh, luckily, Team Eternity doesn't lack the stubbornness to defy death for that long… Can't say the same about my leg though."

"There were complications with the portals," Vermex explained solemnly. "When one of our soldiers went through one, they ended up in a whole other city, in Tesparia. Ostensibly, one of the Fireforged was an adept saboteur."

"Hmmph, ending up there is arguably worse than receiving 50 slashes, courtesy of a malfarian," Sornos, who had joined the group without anyone noticing, quipped.

Court, not nearly as subtle, skipped over the hot sands to join in. "I don't know, at least Tesparia has pretty girls, and dudes, if that's more your speed," he joked with a dopey and toothy grin. "Albeit, I guess it's equally as likely that a boney blaziken with a penchant for slaughter is appealing. They do have real 'step on me energy,' that's for sure."

Jessica looked confused. "What's that supposed to mean?" she innocently asked. "Being stepped on doesn't sound like a positive whatsoever."

"You see, there's this thing call-inmpf!"

Lulu interrupted him via clamping his mouth shut with her talons. The murkrow was visibly annoyed. "There's a time and a place, and that isn't now."

Niles snickered. He really was just about to lay it all out there, damn. His parents must've not kept close track of him…mine are quite the opposite. Being here in Yandor, it really is my first time being completely responsible for myself…and I don't know if I appreciate that.

Niles rubbed his chin. "Why didn't you come with more pokemon? I would think there'd be far more with all the teleporters."

Vermex pointed a claw in the air. "Contrary to how it may seem, the technology is quite limited. Mostly due to the extreme rarity of the required resources. Much to our chagrin, the signal gets easily congested when too many pokemon use teleportation with little delays," he explained. "To account for that, only mercenaries and the military are granted access, and only key locations have teleporters. Croudor only has four total."

"So the rest of the soldiers in other towns or cities would have to make the long trip back…I see."

"Now that you're all here, with the exception of Naoto; whom I assure you, has been carried off to the hospital in Jono," Vermex informed them to assuage any worry. He turned to formally address Team Eternity, each member standing close to one another. "It is my privilege to recognize your exemplary efforts in handling the Fireforged. Whilst only one of the many issues plaguing Yandor, it is progress nonetheless. Therefore, I hereby award Team Eternity with the rank of D, encroaching C I might add."

"Wooo!" Court cheered excitedly, shaking his tail. "D for dance, one of the finer reactions to have when you're singing."

"Never expected someone to be so pumped up over a mediocre rank," Sornos shook his head with a mirthless grunt.

Jessica clapped her hands with glee. "Come now, Sornos, try to be a little happy about it!" she exclaimed.

Lulu tipped her feather hat with a grin. "It was an arduous couple of fights we just went through; a promotion for our efforts is nothing to scoff at. I know my parents would be elated to receive such praise."

"A higher rank is a higher rank, though it may be minimal," Rukous commented with a content smile, shrugging his shoulders.

Sheila pumped her fist in the air. "We crushed a small goal and that's all that matters! I don't care if it's not all that different from rank E."

"You're quite right, Sheila," Niles nodded with a wide grin. "Even if I don't feel that I contributed much to deserve this…" All those key Rock Tombs and none of them made any difference… I suppose I can still use the excuse that I'm not yet comfortable in this body.

"Lastly, I demand that Nilsine accompany you on your future journeys," Vermex declared, regarding the delphox with a friendly face before returning his gaze to them. "It would do her wonders to travel with pokemon like yourselves. I'm sure the experience will allow for improvement for her mental health. Much better than throwing her in an asylum or leaving her on her lonesome."

Lulu's eyes widened as she gawked. "And by demand, you mean we have no choice in the matter?"

"Precisely," he nodded. "For both your team and Nilsine herself. I have utmost faith that you can prevent her from further harming others…and herself."

There was a combination of bewildered and angered expressions and groans amongst Team Eternity. Nilsine grasped her arm anxiously.

"And we'll be given something in return, correct?" Sornos asked, raising a brow while deadpanning. "Having to babysit a mentally unwell delphox sounds like a mission that would beget a reward."

"I concur," Rukous nodded, louring at Vermex. "Watching over a capricious girl that could snap at any moment is asking for danger. Not to mention, they were literally trying to kill us moments ago."

Nilsine rubbed her arm with downtrodden eyes. "This isn't…" Vermex…aren't we strangers? Why? Why are you trying to help? I just…just want it to be done…over… They don't want me, no one does, not anymore.

"Why you guys being so hard on her? Sheesh…" Court remarked with a disapproving tone of voice. He tipped his chin up as an infectious smile grew. "Everyone needs a little sunshine in their soul! And you have me, the ray of sunshine, to do most of the heavy lifting in that regard~" He strummed his lute.

Niles tapped his chin, considering how he felt about this. "As the leader, I don't think we should ask for anything in return for this. This is for the sake of good will, I think."

Vermex gave a dignified shake of his head. "No, Niles, they're in the right here," he acknowledged with a sigh. "You will be duly compensated when Nilsine begins sprouting genuine smiles."

I think I understand now. He's trying to look after her in Linara's stead. Niles mused. I don't know what kind of relationship he had with Linara beforehand, but it's evident that they must be close friends at least.

"Actually, instead of her just accompanying us, she should be a part of the team," Niles announced, tipping his chin up. "That way, she won't feel worthless compared to us."

Sheila's mouth was agape in surprise. "Huh?!" she audibly shouted. She was not exactly happy to hear this. "You were so hesitant to accept more teammates beforehand. Now you're just, just forcing a previous enemy of ours on our team?!"

"I know, I know…but the count is lower now," Niles shrugged dismissively. His expression turned to one of sincerity. "I'd rather her be a part of our accomplishments rather than just tagging along as dead weight. I mean, that's not to say she couldn't do anything without being an official member. Just that, the effect might be lost on her if she feels like an outsider to us, does that make sense?"

"I'm not so sure about that," Sheila doubted. She traced a finger down her chest with a faint smile. "However, what I am sure about, is that you're a good pokemon. Even if you're prone to missing a lot~ So I'll allow it."

Niles let out a puff of air through his nostrils. "Gee, thanks…"

"This is not a wise move in my book," Rukous coldly chided, narrowing his eyes at Niles. "I did not join this team to work alongside the accomplice to Lu's murderer."

"Rukous!" Niles exclaimed in aggravation, crossing his arms. "You were not there when she fought with us, so I can't blame you for not being lenient with her. Regardless, this level of contempt is not welcome."

Rukous rolled his eyes. "Right, I'm sure this'll do wonders for our team chemistry…" he remarked, every word oozing with sarcasm. Then he began to walk away, heading to Uria town. "If you ever need me, you'll find me in Jono's public library, buried in a book."

Jessica shyly stepped over to Nilsine. "If it makes you feel any better, I believe you should join us," she recommended, offering her a sweet smile. "I've learned a lot in the short amount of time being a mercenary, a lot of good… and some bad. I'm certain you'll find more positives than negatives!"

"I'll…try," Nilsine murmured, weakly smiling. "Though, I doubt it was my choice to begin with. Rarely is it, in Yandor."

Vermex stared up at the setting sun which caused the sands to sparkle. "Whether you go through with it or not, I find Niles's suggestion rather prudent," he added in support. "Unfortunately, I cannot dally any longer, as I have a meeting to prepare for. I'll be sure to have new scarves sent to each of you to reflect your new ranking along with some funds. Additionally, if you're concerned about Naoto, you have permission to visit him in his room at the hospital. Oh, and Hextra."

The haxorus sat up from the sand. She had just been dozing off during all the talking. "What is it, sir?"

"You'll need to train a new battalion under your leadership, we may have a war on our claws soon."

Hextra groaned in weariness. "The fun never ends, does it?" She stretched her back and cracked her neck. "Take care, Team Eternity. You contested with death today and lived. That's something to be proud of! Hopefully, if we meet again, it's somewhere far less deadly."

"Have a good one, Commander," Sornos waved her off.

"I must be off as well," Vermex announced, turning his back to them. He peered back over his shoulder with a thin smile. "I see grand potential in all of you. It soothes my mind to finally have a mercenary team that stands true to the values set by Sueyasu and Zaidais. I…" he trailed off for a second, his ears drooping before popping up right after. "You can prove to Yandor that we were not to be feared or doubted." Succeed where I have failed… and do not fall prey to corrosion like many others before you. But... I won't hold my breath.

With that and a wave of his wing, he followed behind Hextra.

Sheila twiddled her fingers with an unsure look. "He said that as if pokemon don't appreciate mercenaries…"

"Nonsense! Mercenaries are supposed to be the heroes of Yandor…At least I presumed they were…" Niles facepalmed. Stupid! You weren't even born here, the hell you know about literally anything in this place.

Court leaned in, near Niles's ear hole. "Word of advice, when speaking from the heart, to a woman, try having a modicum of confidence at the very least."

"That's not…whatever," Niles started to move away from the group, stretching out his arms above him. "It's time we take a load off, my muscles and brain are crying."

"Recuperation is important, I agree!" Lulu energetically stated. "Can't wait to have a nice hot cup of tea to seal the day away, nothing more pleasant than that."

"Don't forget, bathing is important too!" Jessica added.

Sheila sagged behind the others, appearing a bit under the weather. Vermex, is there something you're not telling us? What do you mean by, "Prove to Yandor that we were not to be feared or doubted?" Mercenaries are still on the right side, aren't they? No, what am I going on about, it's as mom always told me about her team. We change the world for the better, in the darkest of times, we are light that brings forth hope. How can anyone doubt or fear mercenaries when that's their purpose, that's why they sign up for the duty. None of them can be bad pokemon…

When she realized that everyone was far ahead of her, she rushed to catch up. She hooked her arm with Niles, lavishing in the comfort that brought her from her inner worries.

---

Age of Zezula: Year 780: Location: Croudor Province: Jono City COY Hall

After exiting the teleporter, most of the team split off to head up to their rooms. The hall was quite empty currently, a juxtaposition to the raucous crowd earlier in the day.

Sheila hissed in pain, her hand shooting to her injured leg. "S-sorry!" she exclaimed, biting her lips. "I should probably head home right away, that bed is calling out my name."

Niles gave her a worried look. "That crappy bed ought to worsen your condition, if anything," he remarked. "I think you should visit the hospital, their beds are surely higher quality."

"I'd rather not wait in a lobby room directly after Fireforge's attack on Merritown."

"Valid point," Niles shrugged, glancing over at Nilsine who was patiently waiting. "Then I guess I'll be back with you at home after I get Nilsine signed up."

"Lucky for you, that means the bed will already be nice and toasty," she playfully poked his green snout. With a coy grin, she limped out the doors.

Niles started trekking down the carpeted path up to Risha's desk with Nilsine accompanying him. Court, who actually hadn't left yet, decided to tag along. The druddigon's eyes flitted over to Niles, then to Nilsine.

"Another teammate to your ranks, I presume?" she predicted, preparing Team Eternity's filing on her computer.

Niles nodded once. "You know it," he rubbed his neck. "Her name is Nilsine, from…" I realize now that I do not know where she's from… could be Croudor or Tesparia, if I understand correctly…

Court nudged Nilsine, causing her jolt up to attention.

"T-Tesparia, age 19," she stammered, twirling the fur on her chest. "Granted, I'm technically an orphan who was being cared for in a foster home here in Croudor. Notwithstanding, Tesparia is my province of origin. Furthermore, I hail from the family of th-"

Risha held up a palm to silence the delphox ."Uh-huh, that'll be all," she interjected, swiftly typing the info into the computer. "You have been officially enrolled in the system as a member of Team Eternity. No need for further details other than name, species, and province."

"My apologies…" Nilsine bit at her stick wand, a pang of nervousness having hit her. "Twas a force of proclivity." Dare say, despite my years of orphanhood, my eloquence has not yet forsaken me. Not even you could tarnish that, Skorge. She folded her arms and scowled in disgust. What spotty babble did I just let loose?! Those times weren't fond of me either…oratory mannerisms did me no favors then nor will they now.

"It's quite alright, miss," Risha assured her, not wanting to give the impression of being aggravated. "It is not my intent to offend royalty or nobility. Simply put, social standing has little to no impact within the Mercenary Guild."

"Welcome to the team, Nilsine," Niles held out his hand as a friendly gesture. She hesitated for a moment before weakly shaking it. "I hope that you'll find some comfort with joining us."

She dropped her head to the gaze at the floor, her void stricken eyes tracing the carpet's pattern. Niles faced Court with curiosity, just now taking notice of the totodile's presence.

"So why exactly did you bother to tag along?"

"Well you see, my room with Jessica still has a perfectly untouched bed in it," he mentioned with a wink, rubbing his fingers together. "I just wanted to offer it to Nilsine. It is the brightest room in the building, if I do say so myself!"

Niles chuckled. "Well, I trust you to know how to cheer up a girl better than I do," he rubbed the back of his neck. "Speaking of, Sheila's most likely feeling a bit lonely by now, and unnerved." I swear, that damn house has more ghosts to throw at us. I've had my fair share ghost busting for the week, totally not my style. Especially when you have a stubborn lizard using you as a jump scare shield.

"G-night, faithful leader!" Court declared, grabbing Nilsine by the hand, exuberantly pulling her along as he headed for the stairs. "Come now, fair lady, it's time for a beauty nap of untold proportions!"

Niles then made his way to his and Sheila's small hovel of a home.

---

Age of Zezula: Year 780: Location: Croudor Province: Niles and Sheila's Home

Sheila was still awake when Niles arrived in the bedroom. He got under the covers of the bed and sighed.

"You know, I'm still concerned about your leg," he commented, gazing into Sheila's eyes intensely. "It could be more severe than we think."

"Oh, quit worrying! It's not your leg anyways," Sheila smiled and playfully punched his arm. "I don't know how it is for humans, but pokemon can recover from a broken bone. Without babying it."

"Huh, guess your Arceus is more generous than whoever created humans," he remarked with a lopsided smile before raising a brow. "Do you have any idea how long it would take to heal?"

"It varies depending on the severity," she answered, blowing a puff of air through her nostrils. "Although, we cannot grow back any limbs. Much to my dismay."

"What? Annoyed that you can't justify throwing caution into the wind?"

"Hey! I have at least one plan in mind before running in!"

Niles chuckled lightly. "Yeah, a plan with one whole step, right?"

She blew a raspberry at him. "Says the treecko that missed every Rock Tomb…"

Niles wiped her spit off his face in disgust. "Look, we should at least confirm what kind of injury it is."

"Fiiiine," she rolled over, facing away from him. "I'll see a doctor when we check on Naoto tomorrow."

"Goodnight."

"Night, worry-wart~"

---

Age of Zezula: Year 780: Location: Postron Province: Olisicar Palace Courtyard

The sun was rising above the horizon as Vermex walked through the courtyard. It was as spotless as ever, not a single leaf or petal from the flowered hedges lining the cobblestone pathway. In the center was an ivory fountain that the pathway circled around. Overlooking the fountain, and providing the water, was a marble statue of a naganadel. They had their long stinger pointed upwards and above the fountain, which is where the water flowed through and down onto it. On the bottom of the fountain was a square plate with rounded corners. Engraved into it was the name and title "Kuroi, founder of the COY."

Vermex stopped to look up at the naganadel's face. His expression turned pensive.

"Oh Kuroi… if only we still had you with us," he lamented, resting his wings on the fountain's ridge. "In these dire times, your faultless leadership could have prevented Yandor crumbling as it is. Why, why did you ever leave us? Where have you gone…?"

He clenched his claws, pressing into the ivory stone. "I have knowledge from Myshe and Sueyasu regarding how the COY changed after you disappeared, how no senate head could live up to you. Now look at us, for the first time in ages, another war is looming over us. Try as I might, I've failed to patch up anything…"

He sighed sullenly, bowing his head in respect to the statue. When he reached the large doorway to the palace, two imposing guards, a gigalith and mienshao, prevented him from entering.

"Identification please," requested the mienshao.

Vermex reached into his fluff and flashed them his COY mandated badge. It was forged from nactite, painted gold, with an intricate and elegant design. In the center was a protruding carving of Rayquaza's head looking prideful, which is Croudor's crest. Vermex's name was etched at the top, and C.O.Y was etched at the bottom.

"Vermex, representative of Croudor," he proclaimed, tilting his head up proudly. "I'm here for the meeting today."

"Hold tight, zoroark illusion inspection," the mienshao warned before they delivered a controlled punch to Vermex's chest. He grunted in response and shook it off.

The mienshao nodded in affirmation. "You may enter, Lord Vermex," they said with a bow. They and the gigalith stepped aside. Vermex returned with an elegant bow of his own. Then, he pushed through the doors.

---

Age of Zezula: Year 780: Location: Postron Province: Olisicar Palace

He walked through the illustrious hallway, wide enough for any pokemon to fit through. Soon, he arrived in a massive circular room. The ivory walls stretched upwards for miles, a spiral staircase led up to the next floor. There were four octagonal ivory pillars supporting said floor, styled with ridges for a fancier look. Tall candelabras with light blue glowing crystals on them, which are called luminite, kept the place well lit. The refined granite floor was positively shiny, reflecting everything not placed on the violet carpet.

Everytime I gaze upon the floor, it makes me wish I had someone as thorough as Lorial.

Situated around the walls were evenly spaced couches. The violet couches themselves appeared as comfy as they looked, and did not slack in the regal factor either. In between them were some paintings decorating the walls. Most were signed with "Charlotte," the name of a famous painter.

There are 6 half oval divots in the walls, each one possessing a dark wood door. The ones on the left and right side were larger than the others. The left one led to Zezula's office, as shown by the metal plate on it. The other housed the banquet hall. The other four were various rooms consisting of: a file room, kitchen, library, and bathroom. The second floor is where the meeting room was located, Vermex's destination. Skipping the climb, he glided up to the top of the steps and stepped onto the second floor.

---

Age of Zezula: Year 780: Location: Postron Province: Olisicar Palace Round Table

This room was similar in appearance to the previous. Albeit, a bit more empty of decor. In place of paintings, there were tall and thin stained glass windows. There are 6 total windows, each one with a design that reflects the current COY members' appearance, plus Kuroi at the front. They are all aligned in accordance to where each one sits at the circular table in the center. In stark contrast to everything else, the froslass window was cracked around the neck area. Most likely due to the harsh temperature of the winds in Postron in the winter.

Vermex admired his window. I still find myself astonished that they bother to replace these every time a new rep or senate head is elected. It must pay in spades to be their designer, especially with how exceptional of a job they do. I dare say, I appear more handsome in the window than I do in the flesh.

On the table was a 3-dimensional replica map of Yandor. Marking the boundaries of each province was a colored pawn; the color representing which province controlled the border. Tesparia is purple, Croudor is red, Eskor is light blue, and Acron is green. The map did not cover the entirety of the table, allowing space for documents, files, and writing utensils.

6 chairs are situated around the huge table. The biggest one was excessively cushioned in yellow velvet and more opulent than the others. This seat was for the senate head, it sat directly in the middle of Croudor and Tesparia. Interestingly, Tesparia's side had one extra chair. In regards to the unoccupied side, that was reserved for any guests. Currently, there are no chairs placed there.

Vermex sat back into his chair and yawned. He glanced at the senate head's seat with a puzzled look that held a bit of suspicion.

I would have expected Zezula to be awaiting me. I suppose I am a fair bit earlier than the allotted time; however, it is only a spiral staircase away from his office.

As if on cue, Zezula stomped up the steps, greeting Vermex as he made his way to his seat.

"Lord Vermex, a pleasure to see you again," the kommo-o announced with a firm expression, falling back onto his chair. He rested his elbows upon the armrests. "How's Croudor holding up?"

"Could certainly be better, Zezula. Merritown was attacked yesterday by the Fireforged. 10 dead and 27 injured."

"You telling me those younglings got riled up enough to strike at the strongest province?" Zezula scoffed in disbelief. "How moronic."

"As preposterous as it sounds, they held their own remarkably well considering the odds," Vermex clarified, crossing his legs with a fierce look. "They had a startling pokemon amongst them, a malfarian."

"Slacking on the extermination of them, were you?" Zezula admonished, striking the noivern with a deathly glare. "We do not want another repeat of the Urhina incident. A former mercenary of your caliber ought to know better."

"I'm not an omniscient being, Zezula," Vermex countered. "I surmise that the afflicted pokemon fled into hiding before we suspected anything."

"And are they still at large?"

Vermex's tail wrapped around the leg of his chair. "No sir, I had a caravan bring them to the Savage Lands where they will be disposed of," he answered, twisting the truth about their fate. "You can credit their defeat to Team Eternity, a newly formed mercenary band. And I must admit, they have a rather promising future ahead of them."

"Team Eternity you say?" Zezula stroked his chin, lowering one eyelid while raising the other. "Hmmm, enduring a malfarian's lust for death is no simple task. If I may ask, who leads these audacious mercenaries?"

Vermex closed his eyes for a brief moment. "...Niles, a treecko that arrived in Jono a few days ago."

Zezula's interest was piqued. "A treecko…" he leaned back in his chair and tilted his head to the side. "Peculiar." Could it be… This is surely no coincidence, it must be the same treecko that "fell" from the sky. Perhaps I should keep my eye on them. It could very well be the herald we've been waiting for…

Vermex raised a brow. He must know something I don't. Mayhap he met them at some point before I did?

Seconds later, a hatterene accompanied by an alakazam and zacian, approached the table.

"Lady Mayadine," Zezula greeted her with a nod, he looked over at the alakazam and zacian. "And of course, Archbishop Jairus and Knight Ysabelle. I welcome thee as well." Jairus seems more decrepit than I recall him being…

The alakazam, who appeared to be in his final years of life, shakily sat down into his chair next to Mayadine. He also had a white and grey metal staff; the top was adorned with a golden wheel, reminiscent of the wheel that surrounded Arceus's body.

"It is my pleasure to be here today. May Arceus guide our souls towards rectifying this animosity."

The zacian, one not wielding the crowned sword, curled up on the floor near Jairus.

"If there is a war to be had, I beseech you to keep my master out of it," she remarked firmly, frowning. "He can hardly walk as it is."

Mayadine harrumphed, clearly annoyed. "Never did I have the intention of squabbling with common rabble," she commented, contempt evident in her voice. "Rest assured, Tesparia will not engage in a confrontation whereas the results do not concern us."

Vermex narrowed his eyes. "This is a matter of grave importance for our alliance," he ridiculed her. "Whether it affects our provinces or not has no bearing in this meeting."

Zezula nodded. "Lord Vermex has the right to it," he assented, leaning inwards. "Our purpose here is to settle a dispute within our alliance. We'd be breaking our oaths to the COY if we allowed Eskor and Acron to secede from it without first debating the pressing affairs."

Mayadine rolled her eyes. "Tch. And yet, the offending pokemon aren't even present," she grumbled quietly. "In precisely one minute, they'll both be tardy. Effectively rendering our time misspent."

Just before that minute passed, a froslass would float up the stairs and towards their seat in Eskor's corner.

Zezula offered them a relieved smile. "Ah, Lady Pherenike, glad you saw fit to join us."

She sunk down onto her seat, a perturbed look sprawled on her face. "To be sure you're all made aware, I only recounted my declaration specifically for this meeting," she informed. "Lumen has many mistakes to his name!"

Vermex stifled a cough. She's raising her voice already and the discussion hasn't even started. This is definitely not the Pherenike I remember. He let loose an aggrieved sounding sigh, realizing that Lumen was now officially late. Lumen, why must you be like this? Must've had a hangover last night…

Ten minutes passed of awkward, but tense, silence. Until the belated arrival of the mega absol. He shambled over to his seat, shrinking into it in shame.

Zezula deadpanned at him. "You're rather late, Lord Lumen, did your clock malfunction or something?"

"I…just had to make sure I had everything in order for this debate," he explained. "I swear I wasn't fabulously sloshed from a visit to the club this time."

Vermex grinned mirthlessly. In other words, he was.

Pherenike's brows angled harshly downward. "I highly doubt it," she spat, staring daggers at the absol. "You cannot jauntily dance away your flagrant ignorance!"

Mayadine scowled at him. "Honestly, I will never comprehend what chicanery it must've been to get you in the big seat," she berated, pursing her lips to the side. "Acron is filled to the brim with asininity."

"A result of the fatuous entertainment that bedevils their society," Jairus added, stomping his staff's handle down onto the floor. "Mayhaps, a curated program for their youth would do them good. To teach them proper etiquette and responsibility."

Pherenike shook her head. "Far too late for that…"

Vermex audibly scoffed. "Tesparia is not without its fair share of problematic policies. Lest you forget, the COY accustomed the class-based system to accommodate for your obstinate traditions."

"Lest I forget?" Mayadine rebutted, offense evident in her voice. "You are aware that your province, too, was concordant with preserving the type class structure."

"That was out of my influen-"

"SILENCE!" Zezula boomed, placing his claws on the table. "We have gathered here today, on Vermex's behest, to discuss Pherenike's recent hostility towards Acron. Lady Pherenike, if you'd please inform us your reasoning for declaring war upon them."

"Recent evidence has come to light that proves that a dark type from Acron murdered my son, Laveunike…" she explained, resisting the temptation to shed a tear. "Need I mention, all the other countless times Acronians have stirred up trouble in Eskor. A direct result of Lumen's negligence towards his duties as representative!"

Lumen sat up in shock, his legs scraping the chair back. "I'll have you know, darling, that my province hasn't had an inkling of this nefarious activity you speak of! Everyone has been living it up," he vehemently denied. "Furthermore, I don't know who this authority is, but that case has gone dryer than wiki wine by now hasn't it?" I should've never listened to Vermex. This isn't my place to be here with all these politicians. Have I really just let criminals skirt around me like this?

"This is exactly my vice with you. You are as yet ignorant of the other provinces," she scolded further, throwing her hand to the side. "You are so self-consumed by your performances that you have failed at your obligations as a COY official!"

"Be that as it may, why the call to action now?" Vermex questioned. "Notwithstanding all the years spent coping with Acronian ne'er-do-wells, never did you get so aggressive before now. I find it rather caprice of you."

"Believe me, I did not want it to come to this," she said with a pained expression. "I swore that I'd not bring conflict back into Eskor's history…However, I fear for my life after hearing this news of my son's murder. I-I can't justify sitting idle any longer…"

Zezula, his disposition turning contemplative, tapped his claws on the table rhythmically. "You're being awfully vague regarding this supposed murderer."

She remained quiet for a moment, her eyes cautiously moving between Lumen and Vermex.

Vermex put his wing on the table and glared at her. "Well, out with it!" he demanded, raising his voice. Then he leaned in. "Who is the perpetrator? We cannot communicate over naught." Who could've possibly given her such information? No detective worth their salt was able to figure it out from what I recall.

"Lu…" she hesitated, her words getting caught up in her throat.

"Lu…?" Zezula motioned for her to continue.

"...Lumen, Lumen committed the foul deed!" she suddenly let loose, pointing at the mega absol.

Zezula was taken aback, his tail tightening around the back of his chair. "Surely you jest!"

Lumen growled through his teeth. "Excuse me! That is one such action I'd never perform."

Mayadine's eyes widened, although her smile begets amusement. "Oh my~ This turned out a lot less banal all of a sudden."

"Such is the way of pokemon that have been spurned by Arceus's brilliant light," Jairus spoke up, stroking his mustache. "Oft we are *cough cough* o-oft w- *hmpf* of-" His voice became very raspy, his throat tightening.

Ysabelle quickly brought him a flask of water. He downed it within seconds, no consideration for actually aiming for his gullet. Everyone at the table gawked at him. He wiped his mouth and tossed the bottle back to the zacian.

"Oft we are tempted by sins without it. Truly ignoble it is that one of ours would be corrupted by this selfsame temptation," he finished with a frown. When he noticed everyone's strange look he appeared befuddled. "Did I misspeak? Perhaps I should repeat myself."

"No no! We heard every word loud and clear," Vermex uttered quickly. "It was very adequately put, thank you. Moving on…"

He cleared his throat, deadpanning at Pherenike.

"Balderdash that is! On what grounds do you make such lofty accusations?"

Pherenike palmed her cheek with a frown. "An encrypted note was found within his quarters. We had it decrypted by Niall, a trusted cipher. It revealed that Laveunike was contacted by a pokemon attempting to blackmail him out of one billion poke. We are not privy to what sort of info was being held above him. Nonetheless, he did not reciprocate their demands," she explained, wistfully staring down at the map. "Low and behold, my hapless son ends up dead the next day."

"And this relates to Lumen in what way?"

"According to Niall's research, exactly one billion poke was transported to the Acron representative's vault a week after Lumen's election," she answered. "Even if Lumen didn't dirty his claws with the murder, he certainly gained from it. That is more than enough as a cause for accusation."

Lumen slammed the table. "What would I need with that much poke?!"

Mayadine covered her mouth. "A hefty sum like that could lift the pressure of poke management as a representative," she pointed out. "A skill I'm certain you're devoid of, rudimentary though it is."

"I really wish I could deny that…" Lumen looked away, avoiding everyone's prying gaze.

Zezula clicked his tongue. "It is undeniably dubious. Considering your delay in arriving, it would not be far-fetched if you felt a disturbance in the air. As if you understood that the meeting would come to this turnabout point."

Pherenike folded her arms on the table. "That's not all either, the head detective of the case, when it first opened, came across uncovered evidence," she continued. "White fur shedding was found in his wounds. Which are three-pronged claw marks, might I add. A coincidence, mayhaps, but a fact all the same."

Vermex closed his eyes and mused to himself. Lumen had nothing to do with this pokemon's death. Not a shred of doubt in my mind about that. What strikes me as unusual is the alleged encrypted note. A blackmailer toying with royalty ought to be up and to the point about what they're blackmailing their target with. It simply is illogical.

"Tell me, this Niall fellow, is there any credence to his skill as a cipher?"

"He's a fresher face, however, his record speaks for itself."

"And you strongly believe that he'd have no errors in his translation?"

"I don't believe in perfection," she stated, biting her lip. The energy in her eyes seems to get sucked out. "But that doesn't discount him. This is the only breakthrough we've had on my son's murder. I just…want closure on his death after all this time."

A single tear slid from her eye. She swiftly swiped it away.

"It's been ten years of watching my back, worrying that someone would come for my neck next. I could scarcely step outside without bolting in a panic."

"I see. In that case, I know what's occurring here," Vermex straightened up, flexing his claws in preparation before pointing at her at great speed. "That message was a fabrication! This is not an allegation that Niall purposely mistranslated it, but that the encryption itself was either tampered with or forged entirely. I base this on the logical fallacy on the blackmailer's part. If they intended to expose information about Laveunike if he did not concede, they'd have specified exactly what dirt they had on him. I suspect that whoever wrote this letter did not possess any such knowledge. Thus explaining the lack of compelling secrets untold."

Pherenike gasped, recoiling back into her chair. "N-Niall hasn't yet fully translated the message!" she rebuked, her brows upturning. "As I was told anyways."

"If that was the case, then why would he immediately begin digging into confidential files regarding the Lumen's wealth as representative?!"

Zezula leaned on a clenched hand. "That is a breach of the Statute of Confidentiality," he warned, frowning. "Without sufficient reason, one cannot peruse confidential files, especially those belonging to the COY. With that message remaining incomplete, all that points towards Lumen is that white fur."

Lumen huffed, flicking his white bang. "Which is inconclusive, might I add," he remarked before sassily humming. "By the way, I keep myself well groomed, thank you very much. I don't lose a speck of my glamorous fur unintentionally."

Mayadine smirked. "I admire the upkeep of beauty, that's at least one positive you boast," she complimented. She focused her attention on him. "Albeit, I still wonder about that poke. You cannot disprove what was on the files, even if obtained illegally. How did it end up in your paws?"

Jairus woke up from his slumber. "Where am I…?" His eyes wandered around the room. "Oh! Right, that flamboyant absol was accused of murder."

"We're past that now, Jairus," Mayadine palmed her face with a disappointed shake of her head. "You can keep resting, Father Jairus."

Jairus blinked a couple times before dozing off once more.

"To answer your question…I honestly have no clue," Lumen admitted, pinching his horn. "It j-"

"What he means to say is…" Vermex interjected. "Whatever file Niall got that from is just as questionable as the note. Without actual confirmation, from a non-biased source, we cannot assume that there ever was a 1 billion poke transaction. Or even, if Laveunike truly did possess a tremendous treasure trove of poke." Lumen must learn not to fall for such evident subterfuge. Niall, and possibly Pherenike, are clearly trying to play us for fools. If only I had jurisdiction over Eskor, I could figure out what it is they're vying for.

Pherenike felt a pang in her heart. "I'm, I-I'm so sorry," she appeared downtrodden. "I let my emotions get the better of me and made an overzealous declaration."

Zezula relaxed his shoulders. "When in your position of power, you'd do best not to jeopardize our allegiance on mere speculation."

Vermex locked his wings together. "Word of advice, always be wary of dodgy pokemon utilizing vagueness as their weapon."

The froslass clutched her shoulder. "Lumen, while I still have an inclination to mistrust you until the fog of this matter clears, I shall call off my earlier declaration of war."

Lumen gave a small smile. "I'll try not to seem so suspicious then." Thank you so much Vermy, darling. I probably nearly hung myself there. Your way with words truly matches my musical prowess.

Zezula looked over at him. "You must get your province under scrutiny," he recommended, tapping the table. "I think some changes need to be made to your policies regarding criminal activity."

"I wish it were easy-peasy to just do that on a whim," Lumen frowned, dropping his head in defeat. "Acron has lived this way forever. There's no chance that I, of all reps, would be capable of a controversial alteration of their lives. Maybe I should just quit…" Besides, I appreciate the extra audience it affords me.

Vermex shook his head with a disapproving expression. "In due time, my dear friend." He offered a warm smile. "The pokemon adore you, and that factor can go a long way in this occupation. I just humbly ask that you follow my advice. You can improve your leadership, I'm certain of it!"

Lumen couldn't help but grin. "Heheh, difficult to argue with you. You've always had my back almost my entire life," he said before sighing. A faint, yet seemingly hollow smile formed. "I'll keep at it, until it kills me emotionally and/or physically."

"That's why you've got the stage to uplift your spirits," Vermex snickered amusedly. "Just don't end up crashing hard like a tipsy golem on a mountain."

"Alright, now you're asking too much of me~" Lumen remarked in a dulcet tone.

"Ahem!" Zezula brought them all to attention. "As we have now come to a satisfactory outcome, I hereby dismiss this meeting. Although, one last request. Lady Pherenike, I need you to get a hold of this Niall of yours. If he has a hand in falsifying evidence, it should see him in a courtroom."

Pherenike responded with a dignified nod. "As you wish, sir. I-if he can be found that is…"

With that, they all dispersed down the spiral stairs.

---

Age of Zezula: Year 780: Location: Croudor Province: Sacred Heart's Hospital Entryway

Niles and Sheila, proudly boasting their new, single starred maroon scarves, approached the imposingly wide, multi-leveled building. It has the shape of a bracket, built from the same materials as every other Jono building. Evenly spaced windows line every floor along the outside. Its roof was flat, unlike the typical Jono roofs. Decorating the entrance was a few bushes and palm trees. Just before the overhanging roof above the entryway was a pathway for caravans to use.

"To be honest with you, Sheila, I have no idea what sort of news we'll hear," Niles said with an uneven frown. "What we saw that monster do to Naoto made my blood chill. I just hope it's on the positive side, as unlikely as that is."

"Whatever the case, I'm confident that he'll beat the smack out of it," Sheila responded, raising a fist with a grin. "He withstood torture at the hands of the Fireforged, ya know? What's a little strange substance in his body gonna do?"

"Oh, I don't know, turn him into an aberrant creature like Linara," Niles countered in a sarcastic tone.

"A malfarian teammate would be a badass!" She exclaimed, albeit, her expression betrayed any certainty she had with that claim.

"Skorge said something similar, and we are unfortunately well aware of how that turned out."

"That stupid skarmory is a nutcase! I like to think we can bring Naoto back to us should he lose control, since we actually have a sense of emotion."

"I'll hold on to that hope too. If only because I know nothing about the enchanted decay. Anyways, we should get a move on."

"Good idea."

Unbeknownst to them, peering around the corner of the hospital was a pair of eyes, low to the ground, enshrouded by the shadow of the building. Their lids thinned as they slunk back behind the wall. Whoever this was, they were not pleased with what they had just overheard.

"Once again, you end up in a shitty situation… You damn idiot…"

---

Age of Zezula: Year 780: Location: Croudor Province: Sacred Heart's Hospital Lobby

The lobby looked like any typical one you'd see in a medical center. Although, it possessed more darker tones than a usual hospital. There are plenty of identical chairs with decent cushioning, all lined up relatively evenly and divided by small tables. Potted plants sat in the corners of the room, light fixtures embedded on the ceiling, and each table had some magazines on them. Of course, there was also a front desk with a couple of pokemon sitting behind it: a simisage and steenee. Currently, there are only a few pokemon waiting around in the lobby.

Sheila plopped down onto a chair with a table next to it as Niles walked up to the desk. The steenee neatly stacked some papers before she faced Niles with a pleasant look.

"How can we help you today?"

"My partner, Sheila, injured her leg real bad yesterday," Niles answered, gesturing towards Sheila. "She's the salandit sitting over there. We don't know how severe it is."

The steenee glanced at Sheila, honing in on her leg. "Should be no problem to get that poor leg checked out," she said with a pleasant smile. "A nurse will be with you soon."

"Also, we intend on visiting Naoto afterward. We heard he was admitted here, right?" Niles mentioned. "He's a mienfoo, should have a scarf like ours."

"Ah yes, we do have Naoto recovering in one of our patient rooms," she responded before quickly frowning. "Sorry to say, but we cannot allow any visitors for him at this time."

He scratched the scales of his neck. "We have express permission from Vermex, though." Now that I think about it, did he know that this would be the case? I can only wonder why…

She paused for a hot minute. "I'll choose to believe you, just this once," she sighed, swallowing her spit. "When you are finished with your check-up, you may head to room 121 on the third floor. He should be waiting for you there."

"Thank you, I appreciate the leniency."

Niles strolled over to the seat next to Sheila. She picked up one of the magazines from the pile on the table. It had an aromatisse and florges on the cover, they were clearly wearing heavy make-up. The title read, "Moonlit Sister's Moonlight Sparkle," with the subtitle "All the rave, Be the crave." Evidently, it was advertising cosmetic products.

"Bleh." Sheila immediately tossed it over her shoulder where it landed directly into the trash can nearby.

"Why did you do that?" Niles asked with a judgmental expression. "I'm pretty sure you can't just trash random mags."

She shrugged without a care in the world. "What? That's where those two belong." She smirked smugly. "Who's gonna care anyways? It is a small crime after all."

"Fair point." Niles frowned, rubbing his neck anxiously. "Just don't get into the habit of abusing that knowledge."

"Trust me, I have no intention of doing so," she assured, crossing her arms. "I've had my fill of that life already."

She swiped another magazine and lazily kicked her feet up on her chair's armrest. On the cover were the heads of a Hisuian zoroark and sharpedo staring each other down. The zoroark had a cocky sneer that reeked of overconfidence, and the sharpedo appeared furious at them. In between them was a ball that seemed to be made of metal hexagons. Furthermore, it had a dark screen in the center, curving with the ball, with a red 6 on it. The title read, "Prismaball Grandfinals!" with the subtitle "Specters vs. Jetstreams at Jono Stadium tonight!"

Niles peered over at it while she held it. "You guys have sports?" he whispered in a curious tone, not wanting any other pokemon to overhear him.

"A few. Though, I don't really know all of them," she answered, setting the magazine down. She set her hands on her knees and looked down with a subdued grin. "My father was a fan of Prismaball, I'd almost always see it on tv when he was at home." She strained out an amused smile. "But, he failed to convert me to it. It was kinda difficult to keep track of when I watched any of it. My interests lie with the daily mercenary tournament when it comes to competitions! They do it every few years or so."

"I'd hazard a guess that you want to attend one at some point."

She held her arms out in a shrug. "Duuhhhh." She then clenched two fists near her chest, excitement washing over her. "We'd have to be dead for me not to drag our team into it!"

Her eyes sparked. "Just think, I could meet with the Yandor's Might! Well, the second iteration…"

Niles chuckled quietly. He looked up at the clock on the wall, which appeared to have the same A.M./P.M. timing scheme he recognized. I'm surprised by how much this world is similar to mine while also being so bizarre at the same time. It's like a mishmash of medieval fantasy with some advanced technology that humans could only dream of and some of your average modern functions that I'm used to. Maybe there's just key ingredients for a society that never changes despite the species. All I can say is, I'm glad that there's at least a small bit of familiarity here and there…

Moments later, an aggron came through the glass doors that were beside the front desk.

"Sheila!" she shouted, observing the room.

Sheila stood up, out of the chair, and hobbled up to the aggron. Niles followed suit as they were guided to the designated room.

---

Age of Zezula: Year 780: Location: Croudor Province: Sacred Heart's Hospital Room 104

This room contained about what you'd expect. A bed, privacy curtain, desk, medical trays, utensils, cupboards, you name it. Albeit, the bed seemed to be made in such a way that allowed it to bend at many different angles. Sheila crawled up onto the bed, sitting with her legs hanging over the edge. The aggron slipped on some synthetic red gloves.

"Alright, so Sheila, since this will be a simple examination of your leg, we shouldn't need to bother a doctor for it," she informed, getting down on a knee in front of Sheila. "Instead, we're gonna let Nurse Sophia work her magic…which is me by the way."

It just occurred to me how unexpected an aggron nurse is. I guess it goes to show that even the burliest of pokemon can learn to be gentle.

Sophia observed Sheila's bruised foreleg. "On a scale of 1-10, how would you rate the pain when you walk?"

"Not enough to hold me back."

"Hmhmm, very hardy of you, but that's not a number."

"6. I swear on Rayquaza's rings that I'm not understating it."

Sophia clicked her tongue. She started feeling around Sheila's foreleg, applying pressure every so often with her fingers.

"Tssssss!" Sheila hissed in discomfort, the orange markings on her back flared up. Sophia had definitely pressed down on the offending bone, sending a stinging sensation up Sheila's leg.

"Sorry, miss, I'm afraid that's not the end of it," Sophia warned, though she did sound a bit sympathetic about it. "I need to feel deeper around it to see if it has been snapped at all."

Niles winced in concern as he watched. "I-isn't there like a way less painful method to accomplish that?"

"There was… Not anymore however," she replied, resting her arm on her knee. "Years ago, we had X-rays to do this for us back when Eternatus provided us with her boundless radiation. One day, she inexplicably ceased all interaction with us, at least psychically anyway. Now our radiation cells have run out of juice, meaning the X-rays no longer function. As terrible as I feel employing the outdated pressure method, it's our only option for the time being."

Niles rubbed the back of his neck in shame. "Damn… hope I didn't displease you with that question."

"It's quite alright, sir." She gave a reassuring look. "I get anxious mates all the time here. It's unfortunate how often pokemon end up injured, sick, or worse. It's a burden having to toll with all sorts of emotions from the patients. But, the gratification you are treated to when you help save a life, that makes it worth it."

Niles blushed at the mention of mates. "I'd i-imagine so…"

Sheila cheerfully grinned. "Mercenaries have a similar experience. Except, that fulfillment comes from defeating a kickass foe for me."

"I would hope so. Your type does come here quite often," Sophia commented. She placed her hand back onto the leg. "Now, hold still. This will hurt a lot, most likely."

Sophia squeezed the heavily bruised area, causing Sheila to yelp in pain and kick her in the chin on reaction. Although, the aggron didn't flinch whatsoever, completely brushing off the attack like nothing happened.

Niles's eyes opened up slightly. She really just did not care. That's one reason that makes a steel type good in this line of work…

Sophia stood up and slipped her gloves off. "Luckily for you, young lady, it's only a minor injury," she notified them. "A chip in the bone with some cracks, far from the worst. I'd say it'll be fully healed within a few days. You young folk usually boast a higher recovery rate than old coots like me. However, I would recommend a splint. All that inflammation is going to cause a lot of pain if you continue to put weight on it."

"I don't need the crutch," Sheila proclaimed confidently as she hopped off the bed onto her good leg. "I've managed just fine without one so far, so screw your splint. Nu-uh, no handicap for this lizard!"

Niles blinked rapidly. "B-but I think you really should!"

Sophia raised a brow. "It's not that limiting, I assure you."

"Nope. Besides, the agony will help me grow resilient!" Sheila affirmed, refusing to budge on the matter. "Come on Niles, we have a mienfoo to meet!"

"I heavily advise not puting press-"

Sheila took one step, the nurse's words not being heard. "Ow!" Another step. "Aggh." And again. "Ssss!"

The cycle of grunts and hissing continued while she limped out the doorway.

Niles dragged his hand across his eyes, blushing in embarrassment.

Sophia gave an amused snort. "That girl must be a downright handful, my sincerest apologies to you."

Niles emptied a labored sigh. "You don't even know three-quarters of it… but that's why I l-" his hand shot up to his muzzle to clamp it shut before releasing it. Heat rushed to his cheeks. "-llearn to chill her out. Uhhh, bye!"

In a panic, he hustled out the room to join Sheila, who was still making pained noises. Strangely, she had not made it very far. When he caught up to her, she popped a faint but tender smile, blushing slightly. He really thinks he can just let it slide like that… You're not that smooth, you sweet goofball.

---

Age of Zezula: Year 780: Location: Croudor Province: Sacred Heart's Hospital Room 121

As they entered the room, they noticed that Naoto was awake and steadily breathing. He smiled when he noticed them closing in on his bed.

"So they let you visit me, huh?" he ascertained, raising a brow. "They had informed me that I was not to receive any visitors as a safety precaution."

Niles smiled. "I told them we had express permission from Vermex,"

Sheila smirked. "I believe they were afraid of the repercussions," she surmised before twirling a mist of poison around with her fingers. "Though, we'd have found a way to check in on you regardless. I doubt doctors and nurses are up to snuff for brawls!"

Naoto covered his mouth as an unpleasant cough fought through him. "I'd rather you not resort to breaking into a hospital for my sake," he offered a mirthless expression. "I've unintentionally caused enough problems for one week…"

"So," Niles began, dreading the answer he may receive. "Any update on your condition?"

The mienfoo's expression became downcast. "I'll get to survive, at the cost of being infected with enchanted decay."

"Shit," Sheila muttered, a swathe of dejection slipped through the cracks of her rigid composure.

"As I had worried…" Niles's heart sank a few meters under.

Gaiety found its way back into Sheila's mood. "But you're still alive and kicking!" she exclaimed, wanting to feed some encouragement into the air.

But Naoto's lips were cursed with a dispirited frown. "After bearing witness to Linara's suffering, I don't think it's worth ending up like her," he remarked, dismay evident in his words. "The doctor didn't lie, it is a hopeless situation I find myself in. And with verdinia no longer in production, I'm without the option to even delay it."

Niles rubbed his neck, his features turning pensive as he glimpsed at Naoto. "Any idea how much time you have left?"

"They said it's unpredictable. Once skin starts flaking away to bone, any moment could be my last in control of myself."

Sheila's claws gripped tightly to the bed's cushioning, threatening to tear into it. "And then what?! You're just gonna give up?" she questioned, getting fed up with the woebegone pair. "Linara powered through it despite everything!" There's always a way out.

"And become the source of pain for you guys?" he firmly shook his head, appearing more determined than forlorn. "I don't want anyone to fall into desperation to save me from an inevitable fate. The Fireforged showed us how that can end… Honestly, I'd preferred to have died…" Being forced to make this decision, having to contend with others' concern for what is unstoppable. Not to mention, I fear for myself as well. Linara was in severe pain and despair, not an ounce of hope within her. Becoming a malfarian like that… this is not a price I'm willing to pay.

Sheila's brow tightened. "Don't say that!" she exclaimed in anger. "I'm not going to just leave you behind! After we did so much to rescue you when they had you captive."

"I'm afraid this is out of our wheelhouse, Sheila," he reasoned, his whiskers drooped. "This is a matter only medical scientists can solve. My fate is in their hands, and only if I'm allowed to live."

Niles frowned, his eyelids lowering in grief. "From the impressions I've been given, they seem a ways away from curing enchanted decay."

Naoto shut his eyes. "Somehow, I doubt they ever will…" he trailed off. "I should tell you, I'm going to get taken to the Savage Lands tomorrow. What I'm in for is beyond me, but I know it's where I must go for Yandor's security. I'm comfortable with that."

Sheila gritted her teeth. "Except… don't they incinerate malfarians there? None of them are given a chance."

Niles stroked his jaw. "I mean, so Skorge claimed," he mentioned. "But that skarmory is aggravated with madness. Don't forget, Vermex did say that he'd ensure Linara's protection despite her being sent there."

Sheila looked away from them. "Then we just have to hope that he wasn't lying to set Nilsine and Skorge at ease," she remarked. Her demeanor then became conflicted. "I want to trust him on it, but I'm not sure." Sheila looked away from them. He was a mercenary, my mother's selfless leader. He would do what's best for anyone, right? Mom regaled me with many stories that paint him as a peerless hero, so why do I feel so uncertain? Man, life was much simpler before father left us… when my thoughts were clear and I could lay in bed all day…

Naoto rested his hands over his stomach. "I'll…try not to give up," he mumbled, looking outside the window and at the expanse of Jono city. "There's much more I wish to do, to explore. However, I will not hesitate in the face of death should my mind begin to slip."

Sheila squeezed her fingers together. "I guess that's all that can be done then," she muttered rather stoically.

"You should both leave," Naoto suddenly recommended. "The doctor might be back soon. Before you do, I appreciate that you took the time to see me off. Also, Niles, it meant a lot to me when you tried to guard me from Linara. My sincerest thanks to you, even though I still found myself harmed in the end."

"Any time, Naoto," Niles nodded. I say that, knowing full well the agony it gave me when I "died." I don't think I'm willing to go through that again, especially when I have confirmed that it doesn't result in my freedom from Yandor. Now that I brought it up, I wonder who that mysterious figure was with the azure eyes during that dream. Well, calling it a dream doesn't feel right, since it was so real at the time. Someday, I need to figure out the circumstances surrounding that. It could lead me to an answer as to why I'm here.

Sheila stepped back from Naoto's bed. "We shall make our way back to the COY hall then," she announced. She deadpanned at the mienfoo. "We best be seeing you again in the future, Naoto! Don't let them turn you to ash…"

Naoto forced out a weak smile. "I won't, and don't get yourselves killed before then," he haphazardly quipped before his eyes returned to the window. "Goodbye,"

And so, Sheila and Niles left the hospital with heavier hearts, their hopes dashed ever so slightly.

---

Age of Zezula: Year 780: Location: Croudor Province: Jono City COY Hall

Risha had her head slumped on the desk, appearing as if her very essence had been supped, as a loud and posh sounding tyrunt prattled her ear off. The young voice carefully tread the line between male and female. Moreover, the tyrunt was wearing a black, silk tail band with an orange trimming that matched the shade of her orange colored spikes. They also had soft white down feathers cushioning the inside, which leaked past the edges of the band. To compliment the tail band, they had two similar styled leggings stretched up, starting from the ankle, halfway past their knees. To top it off, they had light eyeshadow and a nactvite bangle around her left wrist.

"As a fellow dragon type, you are well aware of my prestigious family," the tyrunt proclaimed, clearly aggravated. "It is shameful that you would have me, Imperia, wait around like a servant for their master!"

The druddigon groaned. "Please, for the love of Rayquaza, have," she raised her tone "Some," It got more aggressive. "Patience!"

Imperia clutched their chest in offense. "Ah! You, a mere receptionist, dare raise your voice to me?" they scoffed. "For your enlightenment, I don't do patience, I own it!"

"If that were the case…" Risha began, leaning closer to the tyrunt, leering rather fiercely at them. "Then you wouldn't have whined for the 20th time!"

"I'll mark it up to 21 if another second passes without me on a mercenary band," Imperia warned, clicking their tongue with a shortened frown. "I find it rather uncouth that it would take you this excruciatingly long to search for one. Aren't there hundreds of them?"

Risha rested her elbows on the desk and covered her snout. Your snooty attitude hasn't been assisting me at all in that regard… pokemon like this is precisely why I took this job. If only Croudor weren't so full of royalty and nobles…

Imperia scanned the surprisingly empty hall. She pursed her lips in puzzlement. And why in Reshiram's name did those bands from earlier clear out so soon? Did I forget to touch up this morning…?

Just then, Sornos waltzed into the room with a drink in hand. It was filled with his preferred alcoholic mix. Cold vodka with a dash of moomoo milk, enriched with dark chocolate and razz berries. He was returning to his room, but curiosity got the better of him, causing him to approach Risha and Imperia.

"What's got you all up in a tizzy?" he queried at Risha in a coltish tone.

"Privileged. Nobility," she flatly stated, her eyelids drooping over her yellow eyes.

He gazed down at Imperia, who returned it with a relieved look when she noticed his scarf.

"How fortuitous, a mercenary finally approacheth after all this ruefully wasted time," she remarked, standing proudly. "I deign to join whatever your team's name is. And before you ask, there is no asking."

"I'm not the leader, lad," Sornos confessed without emotion, taking a sip of his vodka. "It's above my authority as a teammate to permit you onto the team."

"Excuse me, did you just dub me as a lad!? It's Lady Imperia, you low-class oaf!" She chomped her teeth together audibly. "The absolute gall of the both of you! Were you raised in the Savage Lands?"

She proceeded to ramble on about them being insolent and whatnot. Eventually, she was just an indistinct echo in their ears.

"Kill. me." Risha sighed in defeat, unadulteratedly drained of life.

Sornos raised his glass. "I'll drink to that," he joked before downing a couple pints. The attitude of royalty never changes, even outside of Tesparia… Niles, you better not allow this bratty hatchling anywhere near our ranks. I may have to order more of these drinks if you do.

Jessica came down the stairs, walking up to them.

"I keep hearing constant yelling…is something wrong?" she asked, addressing them with a concerned air in her voice.

"There's many transgressions being committed here," Imperia folded her tiny arms together; only the hands met. She glowered at Jessica. "Are you the leader of this band? No, what am I saying, that would be preposterous. You don't belong to our superior nation, lowly Eskorian."

"I am pretty weak…" Jessica kicked the floor with little force. She had been feeling pretty down today and hearing those words made matters worse. There's so many strong pokemon on this team…sometimes it feels like I don't belong. Havan, Shinji, Tuba…they lost their lives when I was fighting with them. I just… keep letting everyone down…

Then, Niles and Sheila showed up. They were walking and talking until they saw the others hanging around the desk. Imperia glanced at Sheila and strolled over to her. Her walk was rather dignified, every step carried a fair bit of conceit with it.

"Ah, salandit girl, you must be the leader whose debut I have awaited for," she faked a smile, tilting her chin up. She was unaware that Sheila's silver badge meant she wasn't the leader. "I declare that you shall allow me entry onto your mercenary band."

"First off, I'm not the leader," Sheila answered, sounding the least bit annoyed. "Second off, it's not just your decision to join us." Her lips pulled into an uneven frown. "Third off, I'm not really a fan of your tone."

"Are all mercenaries born and raised in a rancid sewer?!" Imperia cried out to no one in particular. "It would be a boon for a noble to be one with yours. Ugh, do you even have a captain?"

Niles stepped up, although hesitantly. "That would be me, Niles," he introduced himself, trying not to perturb Imperia further.

She seemed surprised. "A grass type? Surely this is a farcical ploy." She looked over at Sheila, genuinely dumbfounded. "You wouldn't allow a low-class to command you, there's simply no likelihood of a high-class falling into servitude to them."

"It's the truth of it. Trust me, you would not want me with that responsibility," Sheila quipped, giving Niles a warm look. "Besides, he's done an admirable job keeping us alive through all the shit we've gone through. I say he's proven himself worthy enough, for now."

Sornos downed the last of his drink. "Speaking from prior experience, I am mostly confident that we are in good hands."

Imperia flicked her chin as she considered her options. She seemed to come to a conclusion once she relaxed her limbs. "Whatever. I've bided my time for far too long," she exasperated, turning to Niles. "May I know the name of the band I'm about to join?"

"It's Team Eternity," Niles answered respectfully. Uncertainty then washed across his features. Should I really accept any more teammates? I'm not all that confident in myself even dealing with 4, let alone 9… It's simply not feasible, I'm not cut out for it. When I first agreed to this with Sheila, I never expected to recruit so many this quickly; it's too fucking much for my introverted brain to handle. I think it's time I put my foot down for once.

"Look, I'm sure you're very determined to get out there and explore the world, which is why I hate to say what I'm about to say," Niles started in a nervous tone, stroking one of his head ridges. "However, it's not within my capabilities as a leader to handle more than… 8 pokemon, including myself."

Sheila frowned, confused at his unanticipated change of mind. "But, I think you were doing perfectly fine when we had more than that…" she said, attempting to motivate him. Albeit, her tone made her sound more disappointed than encouraging. "Having more pokemon gives us an advantage, right? The more the merrier?"

"Sorry Sheila, and to you as well, uh, tyrunt," Niles heavily sighed."I've just concluded that it is for the best for the sake of my sanity. Maybe in the future, I'll have the leadership talent for more. No promises, though."

A displeased huff escaped Imperia's big mouth. "It'd be much more wise not to deny an obviously beneficial teammate," she bargained, gesturing to herself in a vain manner. "Consider the notion that I, as a noblewoman dragon type, can provide a plethora of privileges and at least a scintilla of recognition for your team."

"I…I can't make any exceptions for you, I'm sorry." Niles stood firm. He tilted his head toward the ground with a slight frown. "I don't have the will to take anyone off the team either."

"It was never a question, you shriveling weed."

Risha sighed in defeat once more. "Oh joy, here we go again."

"Stop!" Jessica suddenly intervened before covering her mouth with a hand. "That was the loudest I've ever raised my voice…" she closed her eyes and reopened them. "Anyways, there's no need to argue further… I wish for her to take my place."

Sornos aggressively set his glass down on the desk. "That shouldn't be necessary," he growled, giving the side eye to Imperia. "This tyrunt doesn't deserve such generosity."

Sheila's eyes widened. "What? Jessica!" she stared at the cinccino with concern engrained in her purple eyes. "Have you not enjoyed your time with us…?"

Jessica appeared downtrodden. "Not exactly, no."

Niles's brow arched as he felt a pang. Now I feel guilty…

Some tears streamed down Jessica's face. "It's not what I had dreamed of it being… All the death and misery. All the while I'm unable to do much of anything to stop it…" she lamented, her brows upturned as her breathing became erratic. "I-it's too much for me! The immense danger, violent pokemon like Skorge… I-I just don't want to die. I'd be better off returning to Whimi's diner, where I'll be safe and not a burden on you guys. The tyrunt may be quite rude, but she'll probably be more useful than me."

Sornos ran his claws through his crescent mane. "Not everyone can stomach this job," he callously remarked. "Kids make this mistake all too often. I don't blame you for realizing you don't have the guts for it, it's smart."

Imperia shrugged. "The girl knows her place, as she is expected to," she said, placing her hands on her sides. "Each one of you could learn from her example about understanding when to bend the knee."

Sheila tugged at her scarf, feeling a smidgen of remorse. "Jessica… I had no idea it's been so hard on you."

A smile graced Jessica's lips. "I tried to be like you and act tough, but it ate away at me," she professed before raising her finger. "The only things that should be eating… are the pokemon I cook for at Whimi's!"

"If you truly feel this way, of course I won't prevent you from making a choice that you think is right," Niles nodded with a friendly smile. "We'll be sure to visit you from time to time. Also, for the record, I thought you were a valuable teammate, you helped to keep moods high. I would not call you useless."

"Exactly, you're still part of the team in my heart!" Sheila raised a first, grinning. "So you best keep that scarf with you. Let everyone know you are a part of the upcoming royal ranked mercenary band, Team Eternity!"

The smile Jessica now sported sent a warmth of happiness through her. "I'm… so glad to hear that. And I'll be sure to be waiting for you at the diner. Whimi could use the extra business. So this is goodbye, till then."

She left through the teleporter leading to Mightfrost.

Imperia glared demandingly at Risha. "You know what to do."

The druddigon snorted and began typing away. "We'll have a scarf and badge given to you as soon as possible," she notified, glad that it was over. She motioned over to the stairs to the stairs on the side of the room. "Additionally, you may use the rooms upstairs to stay in. Although, I'm sure your multi-layered mansion is far more appealing…"

Imperia flinched, appearing distraught for but a millisecond. "I-it's a rather grueling walk back there, so I'll settle for the dowdy rooms. I thank you for the accommodations."

"Okay, with that over with, I need to make an announcement to our team." Niles took the badge off his scarf, holding it up to his mouth. "Contact Team Eternity..." the eyes of the dragalge engraved on the badge began to glow white.

"A-attention, Team Eternity, I'm sorry to say that Naoto has been confirmed to be infected with enchanted decay... So, he will not be joining us on our future endeavors. At least, not anytime soon. On a light note, I wish to grant us all a day off, we've earned it after the chaos of yesterday. If you require them, go right ahead and use our team funds. With that said, I hope we can all enjoy this day thoroughly! End contact," the eyes' light went dark.

Imperia squinted her now intrigued eyes at his gold badge. "Is that some kind of fancy technology that lets you speak over great distances?"

"That it is, why do you ask?"

"The COY gives mercenaries such advanced tools and not to the high class?!" she gawked. She then clicked her tongue. "How utterly absurd of them. Such gadgets could do us many favors."

Risha gave a short-lived shrug. "Same reason for limited teleporters, signals get congested and voices will become incomprehensible," she explained. "Representatives do possess them as well. However, at least for Vermex, they choose to avoid them due to intercepting and eavesdropping concerns."

"Huh." Niles stroked his jaw. "I was sort of curious about that after having to deliver a letter to Lumen. I guess the technological industry still has a lot of work cut out for them. Anywho, let's get out there and relish life for once!"

---

AN: I know, and I will not be going on a long spiel about why since the chapter speaks for itself. I spent a few months just fleshing out many aspects of the world and its characters ahead of time, something I wish I'd done sooner. Now, it's about time I make use of that. I hope I can make up for the prolonged delays.

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AN2: Each Eternity member has time to spend freely for the next chapter (except Naoto), whether that be interacting with others or doing something in Yandor. If you have any special requests, go ahead and tell me about them! Regardless, I'll be sure to give everyone at least 2-3 scenes.

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AN3: Imperia was submitted by Doobop, thanks Doobop!

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Team Eternity funds (I figured it'd be wise to inform you guys on this) = 16,300

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OC Form Rules

1. The classic. No Mary or Gary Stues. You can submit some very skilled and/or powerful OCs, but you must give them at least 2 or 3 weaknesses.

2. There's a bar of quality that you must pass in order for your OC to be accepted. This is because I get some OCs here and there that lack any substance at all, and boy is it hard to work with that. Luckily for you guys, the bar isn't that high and you have unlimited attempts anyways (please no spam though).

3. No human turned pokemon OCs.

4. I will not accept incomplete OCs or OCs that just do not fit into the world of Yandor.

5. No main villains/antagonists. I'm very iffy about them in general, as they're hard to fit into the story.

6. PM your OCs please. I'd much rather see reviews in the review section over them. I know this hurts the guests, but it's really not that difficult to set up an account. If you do end up sending one in the reviews for whatever reason, the only way I'll accept them is if you clearly put time and effort into it.

7. Fair warning, no character is safe from death. Since, I roll dice to determine battle and choice outcomes. However, I may overrule the dice on certain occasions. In short, I'll try to do what is best for the story.

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OC Form!

Name:

Nickname/alias (If applicable):

Species and gender (You can submit any species including legendaries, besides Arceus. And for genderless pokemon, just tell me what they prefer to be considered):

Estimated Age (Pokemon don't age the same as humans, so I just need you to tell me if they're a child, teen, young adult, adult, or elder):

Role (Teammate to the main character, recurring villain, just some random shopkeeper, another mercenary band leader/teammate, or maybe a pokemon that I can just kill as an example of how shit Yandor can be):

Province (tell me what province they live in, just know that certain types usually live in a certain province, but they can be in any province really (very unlikely). Read the Lore of Yandor in the introductory chapter for info on that. You can ask any question about the provinces if needed and if I can answer it):

Personality (I need decent enough description that'll allow me to get your OC right):

Character Alignment (You can look up the alignments on google or just ask me about it):

Backstory (I won't ask for much here, just give me a backstory that really shows why they are the way they are):

Relationship? (No, this doesn't mean sex scenes are planned. I'm asking whether or not you're fine with your OC having a relationship develop, and their sexuality):

Ability:

Move-set (give me 6 moves):

Fighting Style (Can be as descriptive as you feel it should be):

Quotes (This is so you can give me a general idea of how they act, talk, and how you'd see them being written. A minimum of 4 is required.):

Other things that you must tell me (like if they have anything unique about their appearance, or if they can mega-evolve, stuff like that):

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And the form for mercenary bands (Just put this form above the OCs that are in the team)

Name of team:

Scarf color:

Rank (E, D, C, B, A, S, H, W, Royal):

Members:

Why created:

What they've done:

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Forms will be on my profile so you can copy it from there.

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And that's all, thanks for reading, hope you enjoyed it thoroughly ^:^