Ch.98: The Ruins of Ironworks Kingdom! Lost Hopes, New Purposes!

In the hour of the Tribe of Shadows' retreat, the denizens of Ironworks Kingdom gradually came out of hiding to witness the devastation that befell their community. Their homes were razed, businesses were crumpled to dust, and memories were tainted by the awful sight.

The remains of the unfortunate ones of the attack lay in either perfect sight or buried under the rubble of fallen buildings. Some families would go to these deceased family members and carry their corpses away from the wreckage, as they were deserving of a proper funeral. All were, in fact. And not a single eye for this mass funeral was dry.

Some of the younger ones were left in utter hysteria, unsure of what happened to their home. It broke the hearts of the parents to hear them asking what happened to their home or where will they live. Those were the questions a parent didn't want to answer, much less live through. Explaining it to them would cause either or to break out into tears.

The homes of these fine people were taken in the war, leaving everyone without shelter or protection. Thankfully, after regaining most of her strength, Queen Margo ordered her knights to take everyone to the castle. For what little still remained standing would serve as adequate protection. Margo would have to gather the finest farmers from outside the dimension to help situate their lack of food, but no expense was too much in this dire crisis.

High above on a pile of rubble was none other than Cybil Hawkeye, who watched the downhearted Pokémon trudge to the castle with weary eyes. The Furret wept slightly on that perch, eyes stinging from her lack of proper tear ducts. She took a moment to apply drops into her eyes, with great difficult due to an unsteady hand. She missed her eye three consecutive times, aggravating her and only furthering her unsteadiness.

"Here…" The bottle was plucked from her hand and held by her girlfriend, who offered her only the kindest and most sympathetic of smiles. She tipped the bottle over her eye and, with a moment to steady her wing, applied the droplets into her eye.

Cybil blinked twice, then took the bottle back. "Thanks…"

Krystal sat down beside her. "Are you feeling okay?"

Cybil pressed her lips together, sniffling as silently as a Whismur. "N-No…"

Krystal held out her wings. With the invitation, Cybil pressed her face into her chest and hugged the penguin tightly. Krystal wrapped her wings around her and held the distraught Furret securely, patting her head a couple times. She kissed her forehead and whispered, "You're okay…you're okay…"

"N-No, I'm not…" she whimpered. Krystal held her closer, letting the Furret rest her head into her shoulder. "M-My home…all my stuff…m-my parents are going to freak…when they get back from their trip…"

"The important thing is that you're okay…" Krystal reassured her. "No need for tears…I got you." She looked up and smiled. "And so do they."

Cybil turned her head and saw her teammates walking up the mound of rubble. They were treated for minor injuries just like everyone else, but nothing worse than some scratches and burns. Ebony smiled awkwardly. "Hey Cy…what's up?"

The Furret sniffled and straightened herself up. "H-Hey…"

Hugo stepped forward and knelt for the ferret, touching her shoulder with a finger. "My child, I, too, feel your pain. Such a tragedy has befallen our beloved kingdom. No such disaster should have been experienced by an innocent soul. This world is supposed to be one where the creations of Arceus could grow and evolve. How dare such monsters come back from the grave, long since put to stasis, to therefore continue their heinous actions once more?"

Saffiro held his sheathed sword over his shoulder and sighed. "Kind of sucks, seeing the place like this. It really was beautiful."

Oswald was the most vehement about the ordeal. "Those inky ghosts are going to pay for this! When I see their faces again, I'm going to punch their faces in the face!"

Hugo glared at him oddly. "What…does that even mean?"

Cybil sighed and gently rubbed her eye as to not irritate them. "G-Guys…it's fine…you don't…have to try and cheer me up…" She frowned at the ground. "…Just wish I could've gone to my house before it fell apart…"

"We figured you'd say that." Cybil's eyes widened as a box was plopped down before her eyes. Ebony grinned cheekily. "I rummaged through your house and retrieved anything that wasn't ash. Enjoy."

Cybil sifted through the junk, then pulled out a large album book with a thick, albeit burnt cover. She opened it and looked through some photos of her and her parents, a male Mightyena and a female Furret. Going further into the album was a recent chapter added, called the 'Team Shatter Star Memories.' One of the first images she saw was a photo of the group, smiling at the camera while looking like they just got out of a major fight. Despite the context of that day, it brought a smile to her face to stare at it.

"…Thanks, guys." She closed the book and set it off to the side.

Krystal smiled at her, then frowned as she looked at the sky, where the pirate ship for the shadows was last seen. "Still…where did those guys come from? I thought they were held away hundreds of years ago? And why attack Ironworks?"

"That…is a loaded set of questions there."

The team turned their heads and spotted their allies of the earlier battle, the four members of Team Ravenfield. Ella, acting as temporary leader of the small group, stepped forward while trying to maintain a composed posture. Though, the nervous demeanor in her eyes and legs showed she didn't want to have this conversation.

Krystal smiled. "Hey! You guys are okay!"

"Barely…" Ella mumbled. She looked around. "You guys haven't seen Wes or Gwyn around, have you?"

"They weren't with you?"

"No…they stayed behind at the castle to…take care of something." She glanced at the castle, noting the massive hole in the side. "We haven't seen them within the hour, which has me worried."

"Do you need help finding them?" Saffiro offered.

Tony shook his head. "We'll be fine. Those two can hold their own…assuming the best," he added under his breath.

Ella acknowledged Cybil and said, "On behalf of my team…we're sorry for the loss of your home. I can't imagine what you may be going for."

Cybil stared down at her album book, crossing her arms over it. "…It's not easy…" She closed her eyes. "I'll have to camp out in the wreckage…"

Krystal patted her back. "No, you don't. My place is a short trip away, remember? You and the others are more than welcome to stay with me and my family."

"Really?!" her team exclaimed.

Cybil narrowed her eyes. "Krissy…I can't ask you to do that…"

Krystal shook her head. "Aww, it's no trouble! My folks love you! They'll love to have you over! And you guys, too!"

"Still…" Saffiro pressed on.

"Hey, if anything, we need to stay close to the Snow Zone if we still want to compete in the Gelid Peak Tournament!" Krystal blinked, then smiled apologetically at Cybil. "Unless…you're not up to it, of course."

Cybil looked down. "Well…"

"If you don't feel well enough to compete in the tournament, I completely understand." She knelt down and held her shoulders. "How about this? We'll just forget about the tournament and take a month off to help recuperate from all this. We can just hang out, all of us." She hugged Cybil. "I don't want to make you attend a tournament after you just lost your home…"

Cybil thought it over for a moment, sniffling a few times, then shook her head. "You really wanted to compete. I can't make you drop out just for me."

"But I don't mind if it's for you."

"And I would feel bad if you did that for me."

"But I-"

"Hey!" Both teams looked at Ebony, who looked absolutely done. "Can you two cut it out before you give me cavities? This is too sweet for me, and I ate my weight in cake before!"

"We know…" Hugo groaned.

Cybil sighed, then smiled at Krystal. "Krissy…I will need some time to recuperate…but I do still want to take part in the tournament. I don't mind."

Krystal relaxed her shoulders and smiled. "…Okay…if that's okay with you…" She inhaled, then breathed a deep sigh of relief. "Oh thank goodness! I really didn't want to drop out!"

Cybil smirked behind her hand, then kissed Krystal on the cheek. "I love you, too." Krystal smiled back.

Ella smiled behind her paw. "Aww…"

"Well, now that that's over with…" Ebony stomped her foot down, pointing at Team Ravenfield. "Explain yourselves!"

"Eh?!"

Ebony glared. "Don't play stupid with me, I know that trick! I remember what you two said back there! You and the Grovyle know something about all of this!"

Flint gasped and swung his head at the two. "WHAT did you say to them?!"

Griffin shrugged. "Not much…"

Ella bit her lip. "Um…"

Ebony stomped forward. "If you are the reason those shadows came here, you better have one hell of a counterargument before I beat the ever-loving shit out of you! Ya hear?!"

"Ebony!" Krystal shouted, persuading the bunny to fall back. "Stop harassing them." She glared softly at the group. "…But is it true? Do you know about all of this? And how?"

Ella narrowed her eyes. "I'm…not sure if I should say. We've sworn to keep this secret…but it seems that's not going happen any longer." She clutched her vest. "Even so…"

"You can tell them, Ella." The team turned and, to their joy, it was Wes and Gwyn making their way up the rubble. Behind them were Ava, Morgan and the bounty hunters, which was surprising. They, too, were bandaged up.

"Wes! Gwyn!" Flint and Ella raced over and hugged the two.

Gwyn smiled wearily. "Hey guys…"

"Gwyn, I'm so happy you're okay!" Flint exclaimed, holding her close. "I was so worried!"

"Aww, Flint~!" Gwyn squealed, bright red.

Ella pulled away from Wes and noticed the despondent look in his eyes. That look was vaguely familiar, almost like when he went into that depression years back. That was worrying. "Wes…are you okay?"

Wes kept his eyes off her, unable to work up the nerve to look her in the eye. "…I…"

"Pops?!" Before Wes could say, Tony ran up to the Hypno in disbelief. "Wh-What the hell?! You and Ava are here, too?!"

Morgan smiled kindly. "We got here some time ago. We would've looked for you all sooner, but…"

Ava rubbed her arms. "I had to get my troupe to help with the recoveries." She pointed down the rubble. Tony and the teams looked down and saw the circus performers and workers attending to the injured. They worked in groups with a medical kit ready in hand. "When you perform as many stunts as we do, it's necessary to have medical training."

Tony narrowed his eyes. "Wait…if you guys are here, does that mean-?"

"Big Brother!" Tony gasped as a Pikachu ran into his side and took him to the ground. She grabbed his face and shook him. "Are you okay?! Are you hurt?! You're not dead, are you?!"

Tony pulled her hands off. "Ugh, Cheri…" His moment of disgruntlement changed to joy. "Cheri!" He pulled her into a hug and gave her a noogie. "Of course I'm not dead, you little demon! No one's going to kill Tony Sapienti!"

"Toooony! Stop it!" she shrieked, trying to push him off.

"Hehe…months apart and you two are still as close as ever." Tony stopped and looked up to see his mother joining them at the top. "Can I get one of those hugs, too?"

Tony smiled and ran up to her, pulling her into a hug. "Hi Mom…"

Angel hugged him back. "I'm so happy you're safe…when Ava told us what was going on…well, I knew you would be 'al-bright.' You are pretty smart, after all. A mother can't help but worry in these 'darkest' hours."

"Ugh, Mom…stop with the puns…not the time…" Tony groaned, still smiling.

"What the?!" Krystal suddenly exclaimed, pointing at Holly and Mack. "You two?!"

Mack grinned. "Hey! It's the exploding girl! Kelly, was it?!"

"Krystal!" she corrected. She shook her head. "Wait, what are you two doing here?!"

Griffin glared at Holly and Mack. "You two know her?"

"Well-" Holly tried to get in.

"Wait, you know HIM?" Krystal exclaimed.

"We were coming to help you fight the shadows," Holly said to Griffin before turning to Krystal. "When did you meet Griffin?"

"Just recently!" She patted her cheeks energetically. "Wait, does that mean you've known about these freaky shadows ever since we fought those cultists?!"

"You fought cultists?" Cybil suddenly butted in.

"Wait, this is the crazy bomb girl you told me about when you were helping Fernando?" Griffin asked.

"Crazy bomb girl?!" Krystal shouted. "Wait, you know Fernando, too?!"

Ebony and Flint were off to the side, watching this with amusement and exasperation respectively. "Oh boy, you could make a drama out of this!" Ebony commented excitedly.

Flint was rubbing his head, possibly gone cross-eyed from listening to them ramble. "Ugh…I've got a migraine…"

Morgan kept a hand over his left arm, rubbing it occasionally, then cleared his throat to gather everyone's attention. "After your last call to us, we've decided that desperate measures had to be taken. After seeing all of this, our suspicions were confirmed. The shadows are getting stronger and more dangerous by the day."

"Aha!" Ebony suddenly interjected. "So, you do know something?!"

"Who are they?" Ava asked.

"Friends we made," Ella answered. She looked back at Wes. "You sure it's a good idea to tell them?"

Wes took a deep breath, which sounded like a shambling gasp for air, like he was so deep in thought that he forgot to breathe. "…It's fine…they deserve to hear the truth…there's no point in hiding it now."

Ella noticed his eyes, despite being naturally red, were bloodshot. It was hard to notice, but there were signs of him crying earlier. She kept that point tucked away before turning to Team Shatter Star. "Alright…you all deserve to hear what's going on."

And seeing as Wes didn't look to be in a good mood, Ella took the lead and recounted everything that had happened to them up until today. She told everything from memory, as best as she could clarify. With the excitement from then now, some things tended to blur, but she did it to the best of her ability.

She told them the events at the college, from when the Ravenfield brothers crashed through a wall and found their father's secret study to the shadow's initial attack. She recounted their journey to meeting Gwyn and the attack on her home. The two trials they endured to get the keys, and when they met Tony and Griffin. She went through the rest of their journey, paraphrasing most of the personal details.

Then she reached their most recent dance with the shadows, where they had their first major defeat against the Shadow King. Their trek to Ironworks Kingdom was meant to be one for recovery and to continue through the next point of their quest.

All the while, as she explained all of this, Team Shatter Star sat and listened intently with neutral, wide-eyed faces, with not even a hum surfacing from them. They listened as if told by a masterful story teller recounting the epic of a mighty warrior crossing several water channels and facing powerful creatures along the way.

Ella took a deep breath and finished off the longwinded explanation. "…So, Gwyn and Margo had their battle and…Gwyn won and we earned the fifth key when…this happened." Ella sighed, then plopped down on her rear. "Ugh, my throat's dry…" She swallowed to get some moisture down it, then gave the team a tired glare. "…So…any questions?"

A round of blinks came her way, having left the team utterly baffled by their tale. "…Well…that certainly explains…a lot," Krystal said aloud. "In more ways than one."

"Hold up, hold up!" Ebony suddenly exclaimed, raising her hands. "Let me get this straight! You six have been fighting the shadows from the big war five hundred years ago while searching for a mystical, ancient relic lost in myth that has the power to rewrite reality itself?"

"…Yeah, pretty much," Tony summed up with a shrug.

"…" Ebony pulled a bottle of scotch out of her coat. "Yeah…this deserves a shot…many twenty…" She leaned her head back and started guzzling the bottle.

Hugo facepalmed. "Ebony…"

Saffiro crossed his arms. "So, that's why the queen requested your presence. She was expecting you. Huh…neat."

Oswald rubbed the back of his head. "Sheesh…that sounds stressful. How are you six still breathing?"

"Months of this shit will prepare you…" Griffin grumbled.

"And it's absolutely important none of this information gets out to the public," Flint pressed sternly. "We can't do anything about the shadows and their return spreading to the region, but we can't have them knowing about the Idol of Origin. We're only telling you this because…well, you six deserved to hear us out."

"Plus, after what you did back there…well, you all are in this as much as we are," Griffin added. "You're all incredibly strong."

Krystal raised her brow. "You guys really trust us to keep that secret?"

Ella nodded. "It may have only been a week, but you all lost a lot today. We couldn't hide the truth without it catching up to us. I only hope you can give us our word that you will keep this between us."

Team Shatter Star took a moment to consult each other, in silent exchanges of glances. Cybil had been relatively quiet during the whole explanation, more so than usual. Her eyes were narrowed darkly. Angrily. Team Ravenfield felt uncomfortable with those eyes boring into them. Was she perhaps mad at them that they may've been responsible for bringing the shadows to her home?

It's not like they knew the shadows were coming. They likely came based off coincidence. Given their showy display, it's all the more likely they came to make a grand statement upon their official return. The impact itself would shake within the hearts of all who survived, with the memories of the deceased forever engraved into their minds.

Krystal noticed the angry eyes Cybil was giving Team Ravenfield. She reached out to her. "Cybil…I know what you're thinking…"

Cybil's brow furrowed, then she stood up, marching up to Ella. The Espeon did her best to stay composed. Tony kept an arm in front of Cheri out of caution. Morgan and Ava made no movements, eyes only showing sympathy for the crushed Furret. They could see the turmoil she was battling with.

Cybil curled her fist, huffing shuddering breaths while keeping her eyes low. Ella refused to back down, if only to show she also shared in the Furret's grief, even if she won't fully understand the extent of it. She closed her eyes and bowed her head, awaiting for her to spill her feelings out.

The sniper bared her teeth. "You guys…" she growled furiously. When it seemed like she was going to let loose on them, the tension in her body deflated. She raised her head, glaring sternly. "…aren't my enemy."

Ella lifted her head, admittedly relieved to hear that. "…You're not mad at us?"

Cybil looked off to the side. "It's a long story…but I made these exact same accusations against someone who I thought brought bad omens to my home. I regretted some things I said…and now she's one of my closest friends." She glanced back at Ebony, who gave a drunken smile to the Furret. "…I won't accuse you all of something that was out of your control. This was not an act against you. It was an act against my home…to display their dominance against us Pokémon."

Ella eased up fully, then placed her paw on Cybil's arm. "I'm truly sorry what became of your home, Cybil. If there's anything you ever need from me, I'll hear your request and do all I can."

"I'll remember that…in fact, I wish to take up that offer." Cybil glared sinisterly. "Because they need to pay for what they've done."

Griffin narrowed his eyes, sensing the red cloud of rage surrounding Cybil. Something like this reminded him of his own anger from years back. The fresh signs of vengeance first developing. Even Hugo could sense the impure thoughts developing within the innocent sniper, who was normally more benevolent in her attitude.

Cybil struck a fist over her heart and stated, "As a member of Team Shatter Star, you have my solemn vow that I will be your ally in the defeat of these monsters! Not until every last one of them is extinguished from this world and pay penance for their crimes against pokemanity!"

A wing clasped over her shoulder, provoking her to turn and face her girlfriend and her bright grin. "Hey! Don't count me out of this! I hate seeing you upset!"

Saffiro smirked. "We have a saying within Team Shatter Star: if you hurt one of us, you deal with the whole package~."

Oswald struck his fists together. "They took out some of my favorite restaurants here, too! I won't let a single one of them get away from me!"

Ebony teetered around tipsily. "Heh…I'll be the captain of this…butt-whooping train to…Pain Town~!"

Hugo nodded and bowed respectfully. "As the holy priest to Ironworks Kingdom, I vow to also lend my hand in this battle against their sinister forces. No evil shall come within reach of the innocent so long as I say so."

The full support of Team Shatter Star was bursting with energy, felt by each member of Team Ravenfield. Gwyn, despite her injuries, jumped up and cheered with joy. "This is so awesome! More help to fight the shadows-ACK!" She landed and grabbed her side. "Ouchie…"

"Easy, Gwyn…" Flint warned, helping her sit down.

"Ow, ow, ow…I'm fine…"

Morgan sighed. "We appreciate the assistance…" He turned to Ava. "Ava…I'm surprised you came out of this in one piece."

Ava held her hips and smirked. "Do you doubt me?" Morgan's serious gazed forced her to drop the cocky attitude. She showed a grimmer expression. "…He was incredibly strong. I could only get by knowing he had limited knowledge on modern day magic. But now that he saw what I could do, and with the Immensus Library in his possession, I fear it'll be a matter of time before he acquires enough knowledge to counter future encounters."

Morgan glared. "Which makes protecting the keys our top priority?" Wes and Gwyn's bodies went rigid at the mention of the keys. "By now, you all must've obtained five keys. We should work on getting the sixth…" He trailed off once he noticed Wes trembling. He spotted tears rolling down his cheeks. "What…?"

Flint narrowed his eyes and walked up to his brother. "Wes? Are you okay?"

Tears rolled out from his eyes in droves, with his teeth tightly pressed together. He pulled on the rim of his hat and covered his face, hiding as he held back the choking sobs. They came out in breathless gasps that sounded like they came out of a sink backed up with some viscous syrup. It sounded disgusting, yet also heart retching to listen to.

"Wes?! What's wrong?!" He grabbed the Umbreon by the shoulders. "Are you okay?!

Wes looked up at his brother with tearful eyes, choking out painful sobs as he gripped onto his sleeve. "F-F-Flint…I…I…I…"

"Y-You what?! Wes, what's wrong?!"

"I-I…I…I…" Wes clenched his teeth, then screamed, "I'M A FAILURE! A BIG, FREAKIN' FAILURE! I'M SO SORRY!"

Flint was taken aback by his outburst. "W-What do you mean?! Wes, what happened back there?!"

Wes reached into his jacket and threw out a small pouch onto the ground. "THERE! That's a token of my FAILURE! I FAILED…FAILED AS A LEADER!" He collapsed onto his stomach and covered his head. "I tried…I TRIED…but I wasn't…FAST ENOUGH!"

Flint's jaw quivered with panic and confusion, unable to understand what got his brother so worked up. No one who wasn't there to experience the event could grasp what got him so stressed out. Tony, however, saw clearly what went down. With a narrow-eyed, focused glare, he bent down and picked the bag up.

Gwyn sat down and rubbed the Umbreon's back in her best efforts to comfort him. She bit her lip. "Wes…and the Shadow King…they battled…we were losing right up until Ava came in to save us. Things seemed to be going fine, but…it turned for the worst…"

Morgan glared at Ava suspiciously. "What happened back there?"

Ava gripped her arm, breathing through her clenched teeth. "Well…you see…"

"Guys…" All eyes fell on Tony, who held out the Keys of Earth and Metal for all of them to see. He had a serious, grave look to his face. "…We only have two keys."

Rounds of gasps and disbelieving stares shot out at him. Tony even threw the bag to Ella to confirm for herself. Her own horrified expression told them everything. There were only two keys that were previous contained in this bag.

Tony crossed his arms. "We're missing three of the five keys we had…" He glared down at Wes. "…And I think I know what happened…and where the keys are now." He closed his eyes. "Or more accurately…who has them."

The truth hit Wes hard. He contained his cries by pressing his face into the ground. His body shuddered with the fast and panicked breaths he drew. His claws dug deep into the ground, sinking his paw down from the uplifted dirt. He shook his head and pounded his face down repeatedly.

"I…made…a promise…to protect them…and…I…FAILED!"

His team looked at him with disbelieving, horrified eyes. Flint placed a paw over his heart, now hyperventilating himself. Griffin clenched his teeth whilst his right eye twitched from the stress. "You've got to be kidding me…after all the work we put in to keep those things safe…"

Morgan clenched down tighter on his arm. "You mean to tell me…the Shadow King now has three of the keys?!"

Tony looked up at the Hypno gravely. "Sad to say, but the evidence doesn't lie."

Morgan looked at Ava for confirmation, hoping this was some concussion-induced delusion he was sitting through. Ava didn't meet his eyes. "…The Shadow King got through my attacks and managed to assault Wes enough to rip the keys from his possession. He only had enough time to reclaim two…the rest are now with the Shadow King…from now and for however long they will remain that way…"

Morgan covered his mouth and teetered back, now growing anxious with the rest of them. This is bad…

Wes didn't dare look up at his teammates. He couldn't bear to see the disappointment they probably felt in him. He had the most important job of guarding those keys and he royally screwed it up. Margo was probably FURIOUS with him for losing the keys. His own team was probably waiting to berate him for such a devasting error. He couldn't bear to deal with anymore added stress on top of him.

"I'm…so…sorry…" he wept out one more time.

Flint looked down at his brother, covering his mouth out of shock and pity for the Umbreon. Losing the keys…was probably the biggest mistake any of them could've made…and Wes was struck with the full blame. It retched the Flareon's heart to even think such a thing. He knew in his heart that Wes gave it his all to protect those keys. He was a treasure hunter at heart, after all, and treasure hunters don't lose sight of their treasures. The loss of the keys was devastating, perhaps even the worst thing that could've happened to them…

…but it wasn't worth seeing his brother so torn up about it. Wes was only just getting comfortable with his leadership position and this decided to dump onto him at the last second. He vividly remembered how Wes locked himself away in his room after the death of their father. He took these kinds of losses hard, and now he was responsible for not protecting the relics that would lead to a reality bending artifact.

Flint looked to their team for some help. They all looked as disconcerted as him. It's not like they never pictured this scenario happening, but like an acrobatic who could perform aerial stunts of supernatural skill, you never would expect that scenario of failing to actually catch up to you.

Wes felt like they were going to scold him for being stupid and, well, a failure. He took on the responsibility of keeping those keys safeguarded on his person. He was so wrapped in his own misery that he truly believed they would hate him over that.

The Umbreon continuously sobbed into his forelegs, only to stop as a familiar paw graced his shoulder. His eyes wandered up only slightly from his forelegs, catching sight of his older brother looking down at him with soft, sympathetic eyes.

"…Wes…we're not mad at you…" he comforted quietly.

The black fox's lip quivered. "B-But I…"

"It could've happened to any of us. We wouldn't want it to be any of us…we never wanted the keys to fall into the wrong hands." Flint closed his eyes and sighed. "…You poor thing…you tried your best to protect the keys…but that doesn't mean you failed. It would've been bad if we lost ALL of the keys."

Wes clenched his eyes shut. "I lost THREE of them!"

"Three, seven, nine…what difference does it make? All ten are required, right? As long as one stays with us, they can't do anything. You shouldn't let this loss get to you. We're all feeling it ourselves. We talked about this…you shouldn't let the burden of guilt rest on your shoulders alone."

"I…"

Flint grabbed his shoulders and hauled him up. "Come on, sit up." The Umbreon drooped a bit, but Flint managed to get him sitting. Flint adjusted his hat. "…I don't think all this adventuring is doing you any good."

"But I…"

"I know, I know…you want to be the best treasure hunter in the world." Flint narrowed his eyes sadly. "…Look…if being leader is too much stress on you…just let one of us do it. Hell…Ella's practically second in command with how she barks out orders."

"I'm going to let that slide because Wes' not feeling good," Ella interjected quickly.

It got a tiny chuckle out of Wes, shedding some light from his gloomy demeanor. Flint smiled. "I just want to see you happy. I was happy that you opened up to me so many other times. I don't want that to change." Wes looked down at his paws.

"Annnnd, if it helps," Tony suddenly cut in, arms folded behind his back, "we still have five keys to collect. And I doubt this'll be the last time we'll run into those freaks."

Griffin nodded. "Sparks is right. In fact…the next time we face each other, we're taking those keys back. Not a single one will be in the clutches of the shadows."

Gwyn stood up and clenched her fists. "We all worked super hard to get those and we're not going to let those efforts go down the drain! We'll get them back and teach those no good shadows what happens when you threaten our planet!"

Wes' ears drooped in disbelief. "…You guys really aren't upset…that I lost the keys?"

Ella smirked. "Sweetie, we could never hate you over anything." She then smiled sympathetically. "Besides…we'd be some crappy teammates if we assumed you were unstoppable and berated you for losing. We won't blame you for this. We're going to raise our chins and keep moving forward."

The grief that shadowed his mind receded back—only slightly. Wes was choked up with tears, though they were more appreciative than bitter. He lowered his head and let the tears flow out. After being such a selfish teammate who bottled away all his problems…for letting them down and acting out in irresponsible ways…

"W-W-What…did I do…to deserve friends like you?!" he cried out heartfeltly, pressing his paws into his eyes.

Flint smiled and drew his brother into a hug. "Come here…"

Ella hugged Wes as well. "Don't be such a baby, Wes," she cooed softly in his ear.

"Group hug!" Gwyn cheered, hugging Wes (and Flint) as well.

Tony rolled his eyes, smirking, and joined in on the hug fest, too. "You're lucky I'm a sucker for this shit."

"Heeeey! I want to join!" Cheri scooted in under Tony's arm and hugged in with them. "I love hugs!"

"Give him as much as you can offer, sis!"

"I'll make sure he's tear-free in no time!"

Krystal balled up her wings and started tearing up on the spot, startling her teammates. "For legend's sake, you guys are getting me choked up! Such comradery! It moves me to tears! I must experience this!" She lunged forward and joined in on the hug.

Cybil groaned and covered her face, smirking wearily through her hand. "Krystal, I swear…"

Griffin deadpanned at the massive group hug. "This is so childish…" They were literally having a group hug after a kingdom and some of its people got decimated. It was like having a romantic picnic at someone's funeral.

Holly and Mack glanced at each other, shared knowing looks, then calmly proceeded to kick their friend forward and into the group hug with a start. Griffin tried to get up, but they pressed their feet down on his back and forced him to join in on the hug. He glared at their amused faces.

"I hate you two…"

"Love you, too, Griff!" Mack exclaimed.

The others looked over them with newfound relief in their hearts. Even Ava felt like her injuries melted away. She glanced at Morgan. "They're definitely the ones who'll bring peace at last."

Morgan narrowed his eyes. "…Yes…they are…" He took a deep breath, then closed his eyes.

The entire journey here, from that encounter with Caesar to now, was building up to this moment that he dreaded facing. Every cell in his body wanted to jump and run back to the caravan to hide away what was brandished permanently into his arm. However, Ava advised him to have faith in Team Ravenfield's judgment. They could trust him.

Was now even the right time to bring this all up? It felt like the worst kick in the gut to a downed man after getting ganged up on by twenty bikers. He could potentially add more injuries than they already had, especially after their last encounters with the shadows.

But…if there was someone who could give them the necessary edge of the shadows…he was their best candidate.

"…Not…that I want to ruin this touching moment, but…" His hesitant voice drew the group's attention to him. He sighed, gripping hard to his upper arm. "It's about time we get down to business…about where we will continue on from here…"

Team Ravenfield gathered forward, with worry in their eyes. Flint kept a paw on Wes' back, as he was still shuddering with grief. The team gave their attention to the Hypno, awaiting what he had to say. And still, Morgan knew he was going to regret saying a single word.

"…Desperate measures…that's what I said earlier. When our paths last crossed in Spring Wells City, we believed with our hearts that you six were capable of bringing back the idol safely and keeping it from the clutches of the Tribe of Shadows." He narrowed his eyes. "That was quite a few months ago, though. Now things are different. In fact, one could say it was a mistake to send you all out on your own."

"What?!" the team exclaimed.

Morgan raised his hand. "Don't misunderstand. We've had faith in all of you. You six are the legendary warriors of prophecy. There's not a shadow of a doubt in my mind. The thing is…that's the problem there. We sent you in believing you could get to the idol without having to directly deal with top ranks. The Heralds of Darkness were always a concern from the beginning, ever since you were informed on them. But now that the Shadow King has returned…and now that he seems to have a better understanding on how to operate Alex's body…" He curled his fingers tightly.

"…We can't just let you all continue from this point on…without direct guidance from us."

The team looked up at him in disbelief. "H-Hold on a minute! Are you…are you saying you're coming with us?!"

"Not just him," Ava added. "From this point onward, my caravan will be your steed through the region. More than ever, we need to get to the keys faster before the Shadow King finds a way to trace them himself. He likely still doesn't know the location of the Key of Power, nor the other four. And it will remain as such until they've been claimed by their rightful holders."

"There isn't a problem with this, yes?" Morgan asked.

Tony held his hands up. "Oh, heck no, there isn't! We wouldn't mind and such! Hell, a free ride beats the camping and walking!"

Ella narrowed her eyes. "Even so…how will this prepare us for the shadows? I mean, training under you guys would be great and all…but not even Ava was able to beat the Shadow King, right?"

Morgan glared hesitantly. "In truth, the purpose for this journey is to also teach you everything you need to know about combating the Shadow King. His shadows don't seem to be a problem, but he and his heralds are the true threats you have to look out for. Fortunately…not much has changed with those three…"

Tony glared. "Actually…about the shadows…" Eyes fell on the Dewott. "When I was battling some of them, I realized they were packing a bigger punch than before. Not enough to where I couldn't deal with them…but it was a noticeable difference from before. Guessing with their king back, they feel more empowered than before."

Morgan sighed. "I should've figured…"

"Also…what the hell do you mean 'not much has changed with those three?'" Morgan's eyes widened and darted right back for the Dewott, who was giving suspicious, yet concerned glares. "Pops…what the hell is with that wording?"

Morgan refrained from stepping back as all eyes, from Team Ravenfield to Team Shatter Star to the bounty hunters, were directly solely on him. The Hypno wasn't fully paying attention to what he was saying. What a slip-up on his part.

Leave it to Tony to be the most perceptive of the bunch…

Morgan closed his eyes, then inhaled through his nose. "…Team Ravenfield…let it be known that, from our first meeting and until the day I die, I will forever be your trusted ally. My sole purpose now is to make sure you live to see the end of the light in this dark tunnel we've found ourselves in. No matter what, I will stay by your sides and defend you against the likes of the Shadow King and his heralds. For you see…I have just as much reason to take their lives as you do."

Gwyn bit her lip. "What…are you saying?"

"…You've encountered three of the four Heralds of Darkness on your journey. Voss, the Warrior of Darkness. Callista, the Witch of Darkness. Aeternus, real name Puck, the Strategist of Darkness. However…from the day we met, a full circle was made. As a collective unit, you've all encountered the four heralds."

He removed his hand from his arm. Immediately, reactions were made. Ella's paws shot up to her mouth in horror. Gwyn's knees buckled under her weight as her jaw hung open. Griffin's face scrunched into a scowl. Tony had his arms crossed, glaring sternly at the Hypno. The color in Flint's face drained away. Wes, with his weary eyes, gazed up at the Hypno is disbelief.

Morgan took a bow before the team. "My name is Wendrake Vanderhart. I am the Assassin of Darkness."

Team Ravenfield was struck silent with shock. Their company, while not fully in the loop, could sense the apparent tension from this revelation. Ava had to turn away, unwillingly to meet their horrified eyes. She could sense the chaotic thoughts flowing through their minds, as well as Morgan's.

Morgan clenched his fist and straightened up. "…Team Ravenfield…I have been your ally since our paths crossed in Fuego Village. Five hundred years ago, I turned away from the shadows after the war was over. I was trapped under my own grief and anger, influence by the power of the Shadow King. For some time, I've grown to accept my fate, even cherish it. Nothing else mattered but the devastation of the very creatures that took away my fiancé.

"Those times are over now…after I was struck in the aftermath of that fateful battle…with the mysterious warrior that battled the Shadow King. Someone so gifted…didn't exist in the many decades of war waged with the Pokémon. He was one of the first…to actually draw fear out of the king. And in that battle, he purified me, if only unintentionally, of my burden.

"I spent days wandering aimless in the darkness, but that brief glimmer of light was what drew me out. I climbed out of the abyss…and eventually reached the surface. Ever since, I took to forging a new path, with the burden of these bloodied sins forever staining my soul." He flicked his fingers and summoned his magical string. "…Whenever someone looks at a deep scar, they will often recall the events that led up to it. Every time I use my magic…I have those same thoughts. Whenever I look at my magic, I'm reminded of how it was drawn out in the first place. And every day, I constantly remind myself 'I'm immortal' and who gave me this very gift.

"It crushes me…that these sins will haunt me for the rest of my times. I've worked day and night for my eternal life…to pay for my atonement…" Morgan closed his eyes. "My services are entrusted into your hands…for the sole purpose that I may free myself from my own burdens." He bowed to the team respectfully. "Please…hate me if you wish for my past actions, but allow me to join you in the fight to finally bring down the Shadow King…so that the world may continue to experience another sunrise."

The air was dense with silence. Morgan dared not to look up and face Team Ravenfield's stunned faces. He couldn't blame them. He knew exactly what was going through their minds now. It was up to luck to decide whether or not they would give him that chance he needed.

He heard a shuddered breath exhale. Looking up, it was Ella, who gripped over her heart as she slowed her tense breathing. "This…This is a little much to take in…" she admitted. "Y-You…You were…one of the heralds…that brought about decades of pain and anguish…took innocent lives…consciously knew what you were doing, even if under an influence…"

Morgan didn't flinch at her remark. "…I am not proud of those times…I never will be. A part of me is still fighting back, wanting to rekindle those times as an emotionless monster…I've been fighting that temptation for five hundred years…"

Griffin narrowed his eyes. "I figured you were strong, but…I never considered this…"

"I've had years to learn to hide it…"

Gwyn shrunk back worriedly. "And…how do we know for sure…you are on our side? N-Not that I don't believe you, but…"

Morgan smiled wearily. "Your concerns are reasonable…" He sighed. "…I suppose the only leverage I have to prove my case…is Ava." He gestured to his friend. "She can vouch for me. I know she will." Team Ravenfield looked at Ava.

Ava nodded slowly. "Despite Morgan's…dark history, he doesn't have any ulterior intentions or duplicitous thoughts. I've known him for years and, while his history is new to me, I see in his heart he is not the evil man he once was."

Morgan knelt down. "And…to ameliorate your concerns, I will willing answer any questions you have about me. This…is why I have to come clean. My knowledge on the Tribe of Shadows, for as useful as it can be, will provide you with the power to defeat them. While they've learned and adapted, I know a bit more about the heralds and the king than they think."

Wes grimaced, pulling on his hat. "Y-You're really…on our side?"

Morgan touched his heart. "You have my word. I'd give my life to protect you six. I've seen enough of this world to want to preserve its beauty. I can't bear to see it succumb to darkness."

Ambivalent glances were exchanged among the team. They wanted to believe Morgan, truly, and they know he wasn't a bad guy. Still, he was a part of the heralds, who brought unending misery to Pokémon life in the past. Even with five hundred years to temper is darker side, how far gone was that darker side?

"…Well, I'm convinced." Their eyes darted to Tony, who stepped forward.

"You sure, Sparks?" Griffin asked seriously. "I know he's your friend, but…"

"I've known Pops for a long while. He did some horrible things in the past, I get that." He glared over his shoulder. "But now's not the time to be selfish about our feelings. Regardless of circumstance, Pops has the information we need to combat the shadows. He's the best ally we could've asked for."

"…" Wes looked down for a moment, then sighed. "…Tony's right." He rubbed his eyes and pulled himself up. "We have to trust Morgan, even if he's the Assassin of Darkness." He looked up at Morgan. "It'll be…hard to comprehend this…but I'm willing…to trust you."

Morgan smiled. "Thank you…Wes Ravenfield…"

Flint and Gwyn looked at each other, then stood up. "I'm with Wes on this one," Flint said.

"Same here," Gwyn seconded.

Ella sighed. "Y-Yeah…I'll trust you…"

Everyone looked at Griffin, who was the least willing to agree to trusting Morgan. As far as he was concerned, he only met the old Hypno briefly back in Spring Wells. He never had the chance to fully know this man like all of them. He had his doubts, if only out of caution.

Still, he had to agree with the Dewott for once: now wasn't the time to be selfish. "…I'm only saying 'yes' because I'll stick with Wes' decision."

Morgan sighed. Not the answer he wanted, but good enough. "Thank you…thank you all." He straightened up.

Ella crossed her forelegs. "So…what now?"

"Training, of course," Morgan answered. "Your next stop is obvious. We're going to Gelid Peak City to get the Key of Power from Benedict's tournament. You six need to be prepared for that."

"Wait!" Team Ravenfield turned towards the other team's leader. "You're saying that other key is being held at the tournament?!"

Ella narrowed her eyes. "Seems that way. We don't really care for the championship title, but we really need to face the champion to get that key."

Krystal crossed her wings and huffed. "Well, isn't that just grand?"

Flint grimaced. "Look, we're not asking you to forfeit out of the tournament or anything, but…we REALLY need that key. The mages want to know for sure if we're the ones destined to protect it. That's why we need to fight them. They won't hand them out to us just because the world's at stake." He looked at his disheartened brother. "…We have our own atonements to make."

Krystal sighed. "Oi…I get it, don't worry." She held her hips and smirked. "Alright, then how about this? Want to increase your chances of getting that key? We'll be reaching for it as well!"

"Say what?" Tony asked.

Krystal smirked. "Think about it. Two teams battling it out in a tournament and reaching for the top. If we both make it to the finals, it doesn't matter WHO loses. One of us just needs to win and beat the champion at the end. That basically increases our chances of getting it."

Ella glanced at her team. "She's…not wrong, actually. That's pretty smart."

"But aren't we supposed to challenge them for it?" Griffin reminded.

"We'll just plead with Benedict to make an exception," Tony suggested. "And if not…we'll just have to kick their asses and get through ourselves," he added with a smirk.

Ebony smirked. "Ooooh. The Dewott's getting fiery~!"

Saffiro chuckled. "You won't be getting an easy victory there, friend. We have every right to fight at our fullest in this tournament~."

Gwyn smiled brightly. "Then…let's all do our best?"

"Don't see why not," Cybil grumbled. She clenched her fists tightly. "…I just want those freaks to pay…"

Krystal laughed awkwardly and patted her head. "CyCy, your angry side is showing…"

Flint smiled. "Sounds like we've got a plan set up." He frowned and looked around at the kingdom. "Still…it won't feel right leaving everything like this. Maybe we should stay and help out a bit…"

"No. Absolutely not." Trekking up the wreckage hill, Margo came up to their large group, with Segar at her side. She had her injuries patched up, but she had to walk with a metal staff due to a bad leg. She pointed at Team Ravenfield. "We just lost three keys today. You all are not allowed to stay behind and help my kingdom."

"But Queen Margo-" Gwyn tried to get out.

"No 'buts.' I appreciate the help from Ms. Young's troupe, but we have everything covered here. You three have more important business to get to. That tournament will be hosted in a month, so get to training immediately." She glared at Wes specifically.

Wes' ears drooped. If he had anymore tears to shed, they'd be coming out as streams. He bowed his head shamefully to her. "Queen…Margo, I…"

He froze as her hand reached out and clutched tightly to his shoulder blade. She pulled his head down so that their eyes were locked. "Listen. To me. Carefully." Her tone was sharp and hostile, filling Wes with dread. However, that tone shifted away from its intensity, still commanding a firmness. "…Consider this your next test before battling Benedict, Young Ravenfield."

"…Huh?"

Margo glared. "While it wasn't our intention, I want you to use this mistake as a learning experience. You have the capacity to be a leader. We've all seen it within you. You need to see it for yourself. We have faith in you. Do not let this defeat break you. Let it improve you for your next battle with him. We entrusted those keys to you because only a treasure hunter with heart such as yours…would have the biggest desire to keep them safe. You didn't lose all the keys. It annoys me we lost them, but saved a couple. That's what should matter now."

Wes looked away shamefully. "I…I can't…I just can't…"

Margo took a deep breath, then stepped back. "…You shouldn't stay here, Young Ravenfield. Too many bad memories won't help you. I suggest you go somewhere else to recuperate. You all should." She turned her back to them and began walking. "…They'll be watching, you know."

"T-They?" Wes asked.

"The Big Three of the mages. I've already informed them of what happened, as well as the others." Wes paled. "…Can't say for certain what each of them are thinking, but…you will have to redeem yourself at that tournament. Fight your way to the championship title…and prove to Benedict, and the rest, that you won't fail again."

Wes felt like he was going to throw up, so Ella patted his back and answered for him. "We'll…keep that in mind."

"Good…" Margo turned and started hobbling off. "I've got to contact some people about getting this kingdom back into shape. I advise the same to the rest of you."

They watched the Mawile leave them with Segar. Wes exhaled and covered his face. Flint rubbed his back. "She's right…staying here won't be good for any of us."

"Then I suggest we go somewhere more comfortable for you all," Morgan advised. "I can't guarantee if the Shadow King will plan another attack, though…there's a chance he'll use this time to study ways to counter you all. While that's bad, it gives us time to recuperate."

Griffin grunted. "So…best we start heading off."

Tony closed his eyes and smirked. "Okay, great and all, but…where the hell do we go? Even if we decide to book it to Gelid Peak, I don't think that'll do much for Wes' self-esteem. Trekking through the snow doesn't seem to help with coping."

Ava looked down at Wes. "Is there anywhere in particular you wish to go?"

Wes narrowed his eyes and looked down at his paws. Where could he go at a time like this? Where could he go to recuperate and take out his feelings freely? Somewhere…

"…I know a place. And I can get there quickly, actually."

"Really?" Ava asked.

Wes nodded, then looked at his paw. "Although…it's a little impossible for me. My Warp Tunnel…I've never had to transport more than three bodies, so…if we're all going, I…need a little more power."

Morgan nodded. "That, we can provide." He placed his hand upon Wes' head. "It's a little simple, but it is possible to transfer magic into others to give them an extra boost. Mine should be enough to help stabilize your portal."

"…Okay."

Ella turned to Team Shatter Star. "You guys want to come?"

Krystal shook her head. "Nah. I'm taking my team back to my place. You guys don't need us mucking around while you're…well, recuperating and stuff." She smirked. "But I expect you lot to be ready for the tournament in a month. Regardless of anything, we're not going easy on you."

Ella smirked. "Whatever. We'll kick your asses by then."

"We'll see." Krystal smiled sympathetically. "Until then, take care of yourselves, comrades. We'll see you in a month."

Hugo clasped his hands and bowed to them. "May you find good fortune along the way, my children."

Wes could only offer a tiny, but thankful smile to them. "Thanks…"

Ava started walking. "I'll go gather my troupe, then we can get moving." She headed down the hill.

Griffin crossed his arms and looked at his childhood friends. "I assume you two are coming with us?"

Holly chuckled. "We didn't come all this way just to leave. I guess you're stuck with us for the rest of the journey. Hope you don't mind."

Griffin turned away and chuckled to himself. "As long as Mack doesn't cause any trouble for us."

Mack smirked. "I make zero promises."

Flint patted Wes' shoulder. "You sure you're going to be alright, bro?"

Wes wasn't entirely sure how he was feeling. Bad that he lost three of the keys, but…also conflicted. He didn't want to feel this bad about it, but…it couldn't be helped when it came to him. He just needed time to get away from everything, somewhere to ease his mind a bit. One destination in mind was all he needed to comfort him. It was something he and Flint needed.

"…I'll be…fine."

Flint frowned. "If you say so…but where are we going?"

Wes looked at his paw. "…Somewhere familiar."

KNOCK, KNOCK, KNOCK!

Vivian was roused awake by the knocking at the front door. She rolled over in bed and checked her clock, seeing it was seven-thirty in the morning. She groaned and rubbed her eyes with her feelers, then used the other pair to pull her sheets off her body. She stepped out of bed, then placed on a yellow robe over her pinkish nightgown, then traversed groggily out of bed.

"Who's knocking at this hour?" she mumbled to herself, descending the stairs. It might've been Hal. He had a tendency to come by and have breakfast with her, if only because he got lonely without a certain Umbreon bugging him (though, he refused to admit he was lonely).

She stopped in front of her door and undid the locks, then pulled it open, flinching at the fresh light of morning. She finished rubbing the sleep out of her eyes. "Yes, can I help…" She opened her eyes, then froze. "…you?"

Awkwardly standing at the door, Wes and Flint smiled warmly at the older Eeveelution. Wes had bags under his eyes, from a terrible night of sleep he got. The extra redness in his eyes was gone, thankfully. They wanted to get some sleep from the other day before transporting on over back home. Wes couldn't perform the spell quite as easily if he wasn't fully concentrated, especially with the large party they had to take with them.

Either way, it was all worth it.

"Hi Mom…" her two sons greeted quietly.

Vivian was struck speechless, almost fainting on the spot. Her feelers held over her mouth in a quiet gasp. Her jaw quivered as tears formed in her eyes. Her own legs buckled under her. This wasn't a dream. It was too real. It really is them.

She took two steps forward, then threw herself at them, catching them off guard. Her feelers wrapped around them tightly and pulled them into a tearful embrace. She pressed her watery eyes into Wes' shoulder, with both her forelegs wrapped around them. She choked out a tight sob of tearful joy.

"M-My…My baby boys…I…I-I missed you…"

Wes and Flint smiled, the former more wearily, and wrapped their forelegs around her. "We missed you, too…" Flint whispered.

"Told you we would visit eventually," Wes added half-jokingly.

Vivian cried out, wearing a weepy smile. "I-I-I know…"

The Sylveon was so happy to see her sons, so much so she was blinded by the fact there was a long caravan sitting outside her house. Sitting on top of one of the trailers was the rest of the team. They smiled at the sweet scene, even Griffin. The scars of yesterday won't leave their minds for a long time…

…But, for now, this was needed. They all needed a repose.