Ch.104: Wes and Ella's Growth! Team Ravenfield Marches to the Fight!

"You're serious?"

"I overheard most of the conversation, but…yeah, they weren't too happy about it."

Wes, Vivian, Flint, and Gwyn had decided to have some lunch at a small little café while the others were off on their own business. Tony and Griffin were off doing their usual thing, but Ella has been a bit distant. Wes was only now hearing about this and it was beginning to worry him.

Vivian covered her mouth. "Oh dear…the poor thing sounded like she was angry…"

"Really angry," Gwyn clarified. "Ella wasn't happy that her parents wanted her out of the tournament."

Flint sighed. "I'm starting to see why Ella didn't want to talk about her folks that much. They must've placed quite the burden on her to succeed."

Wes frowned at his food. "I probably didn't make it easier on her…"

Vivian rubbed his back. "Now Wes, that's in the past. Ella has forgiven you."

"Whether as a boyfriend or as a leader, I still failed her when she needed me." He sighed and fell into his forelegs. "I'm such an idiot…"

Flint shook his head. "You made a mistake and you realize that. You'd be a bigger idiot if you didn't."

"That doesn't really cheer me up, bro…"

Gwyn patted his head. "Aww, chin up, Wes. I'm sure Ella's parents don't hate you that much."

"They made it pretty clear in the hospital…"

Vivian sighed, then wrapped her feeler around her son. "Wes, I may not know much about your quest, but I can see it has had an effect on you. A positive one, in fact."

"You're just saying that…"

She shook her head. "I admit, I worry about you when you go on missions, but I do it out of love. I never had to worry about your father because I was confident in him. Some of that confidence faded when he…was killed…and it may have affected how I watched you go out on your own. I wouldn't be a good mother if I didn't feel concerned for my babies."

Wes sat up and stared at her, then smiled lightly. "You are a good mother…"

Vivian smiled back warmly. "…But, now I know I definitely shouldn't worry. You are amazing at what you do. Don't let anyone say otherwise about you. I just know you will become a great treasure hunter."

"That means a lot coming from you, Mom." Wes pulled her into a hug, which she gleefully returned.

Flint sighed. "Problem is convincing Ella's parents to let her join the tournament."

"They can't actually stop her, can they?" Gwyn asked. "I don't think Ella would just let anyone talk her out of something, especially if she has her mind set on it."

"She would, but it won't improve their relationship." He rubbed his face. "They've been coddling Ella for so long, they can't accept that she can handle herself."

Wes glared at his food. "So…what do we do?"

Flint shrugged. "Unless one of us can talk them into it, they'll just keep going at each other's throats."

Vivian sighed. "I suppose I can speak with them. I'm not sure how much influence I'll have in their approval, but I can at least try."

Wes stayed quiet for a moment, then scooted out of his chair. "I'm going to look for Ella."

"Huh?" They looked at the Umbreon, confused.

Wes narrowed his eyes. "Maybe I can convince them."

Flint flinched. "Wes…I think you already know their answer."

"They had an answer for the old me. I make no promises, but I have a right to speak my mind to them." He frowned. "Besides, no matter how Ella feels about me now or not, I owe it to her to show how much I appreciate her on the team."

Flint and Gwyn looked at each other, unsure at first. They held the look in silent conversation, giving quick looks at Wes, then smiled. "Well…you are trying to do better with the whole leader thing."

"And you're SUPER nice and sweet!" Gwyn added. "You'll totally win them over!"

Wes shook his head. "I don't need to win them over. I just need to prove to them Ella wants to do this for herself." He stood up and placed some money next to his food. "Where's Ella hanging out?"

"Not sure, but try the Enchanted Bar," Flint suggested. "She usually goes there to clear her thoughts."

"Thanks…" Wes grabbed his hat and raced off to the bar. "Don't worry, guys! I'll get this sorted out!"

Vivian smiled, sipping on her drink. "Never thought I'd say this…but fighting Hal might have done that boy some good." Flint and Gwyn nodded in agreement.

Tony focused hard on the Thunder God's Wrath being charged in the palm of his hand. He was keeping it condensed down into a near, spherical shape while also balancing on one foot. He took a great deal of concentration to keep it from bursting out of his hand.

Leroy floated next to him on his Nebula Rider. "Thunder God's Wrath is a powerful spell that requires time and patience to charge. While it may charge in the skies, the power you give it helps with your control before firing."

Tony narrowed his eyes. "How exactly would that help me?"

"The spell gains power gradually on its own, but controlling where the attack will strike can be tricky. It is rather inaccurate if you don't have a shot lined up exactly. This will help balance out when and where the attack will strike. Only you can give it the flexibility to find their target."

Tony narrowed his eyes. "Fascinating…any other trade secrets I should know about?"

"Thunder God's Wrath does have a unique application, though it is rarely used in battle."

"How so?"

"Its power can be charged for days."

Tony's eyes widened. "The hell? Seriously?"

"It does take some concentration to keep it stable for that long, but Thunder God's Wrath is a spell capable of charging through the course of multiple days. At some point, it'll even start syphoning off the magic found within the air." He sighed. "Of course, finding any useful application for that is almost impossible. Most who try to will be found out if their target can sense magic. You will need to be somewhere where the increase wouldn't be noticed."

Tony lightened up, then glared. "…Interesting…" He closed his eyes, then dispelled the spell with a snap of his fingers.

"Why did you stop?"

"I'm taking a break." Folding his arms behind his head, he walked himself over to a nice rock to lay his head against.

Leroy groaned. "You are impossible to work with sometimes."

Tony plopped himself down and leaned back into the rock. "…You haven't even tried…"

"Huh?"

"I've been keeping any eye on things. I haven't once heard anything from my mom or sister about meeting you, nor have I seen you actually approach them."

Leroy looked away. "…I'm not ready yet."

"That's what you said last time. And the last time. And the last time." Tony groaned. "You don't want to see them because you're scared…"

"I don't scare easily, boy."

"You say that, yet here we are having this conversation."

"…" Leroy inhaled through his nose. "…It's hard to think how much of a terrible father I've become." He closed his eyes. "You and Cheri have spent a lot of time together. She almost treats you like her father."

"So, you have been watching."

"Nothing to do when I want to keep my presence secret." Leroy dispelled his Nebula Rider and walked up to his son. "She idolizes you, almost acts like you in some areas." He frowned. "If this is how you feel about me, then what hope do I have of trying to make my own daughter appreciate me? I don't know why your mother still feels the way she does about me, but I'd only hope for the love of respect of my children. If I can't get yours, what else would I expect from my daughter?"

Tony glared slightly, then looked up at the passing clouds. "…You tell me. Frankly, thinking about it won't do you any good. I think all the time, about what could happen and what might happen. However…sometimes the answers a little more obvious than you give it credit for.

"I never once heard Cheri voice hatred for you, just so you know. Maybe she keeps it to herself. Maybe she's harder to read than I thought. She is my sister, after all. Maybe general cleverness and trickery runs in the family. Mom certainly has some trickster in her." Tony smiled. "But what good are you doing standing around out here and overthinking what might happen?"

"And…if she does hate me?"

"That sounds like a personal problem. If she hates you, she hates you. Can't say I hate you anymore, but I really, really, really, really, really dislike you." He paused for a moment, then shifted over so he was sitting upside-down against the rock. "Maybe I'm just pushing you into something you aren't ready for. If so, I guess I owe you an apology. But you still owe it to them to give yours."

"Then, when should I?"

"If you really can't do it now, then I don't know when. You're being too difficult to work with."

Leroy narrowed his eyes, then thought to himself. Family life was never his thing. He was a screw-up since he first started dating Angel. He didn't know how he made through years with her, then eventually marriage, then eventually having kids. He wasn't a good husband, father, or family man. Why was he bothering with trying to reach out to his family when all he has done was cause strife in his absence?

Perhaps it's because, after being subjected to his son's bitter diatribe and anger, Leroy had more time to think over his own guilt. He swallowed it down just to ignore the burning feeling, but Tony was a persistent lad. He wouldn't let anyone stand in his way of getting what he wants. Leroy would've thought he got that from him, but…with the way he has been, it was quite clear Angel was the one who influenced the boy more.

That woman…no matter how many times Leroy screwed up, she would always lend a hand to make things right. Any other woman would've gave up on him after the third or fifth blunder, but she always stayed by his side, cracking jokes and making puns with a sweet smile adorning her face. Why was it that she, of any woman, was the one to make knots twist in his stomach? It's not that he never thought she was beautiful, but…she always had a strange effect on him.

All his life, he had been a warrior set to protect the innocent. He fought in battles against dangerous criminals, Pokémon who could've done serious harm to Mysto if left to their agendas. He never had moments to relax or…learn to be a normal person. The more he considered it, the more he realized how much he depended on Angel…and a part of him felt bitter about it.

He always acted independent of others. He never needed someone to take care of him. He only knew the skills he had and they were enough. After Angel came along, his own faults started to show and he hated it. He hated feeling some…inept. He had an image to uphold. If he couldn't properly boil water or do laundry correctly, then what kind of man was he?

He never wanted anyone to pity him…but Angel never pitied him. She just cracked jokes to lighten the mood. She never felt sorry for him, or at least never showed it. She just wanted him to ease up and have a good time. She had an ungodly patience for his mistakes.

There was no one else like her that actually made him feel…happy.

"…Swamp Zone."

Tony opened one eye. "Eh?"

"The Key of Life is in the Swamp Zone. I will meet you all there. I suspect you will be traveling with Ms. Young for a while, that also means with your mother and sister." He took a deep breath, then glared determinedly. "…I will be there…and I will be ready to greet them."

Tony sat up. "You sure?"

"I might need some help, but…I want to make amends with them. I just don't feel ready…" He glared. "But I hate running away like this. No matter how I behave, I do care deeply for your mother…and I want to be there for my daughter. Even if Cheri resents me…I owe it to her to be a father…"

Tony blinked with a dry expression, then smirked. "…Well, look who's all grown up."

"Hush."

Tony snickered. "Hey, I'm being serious, but you have to own up to your word, alright? If I find out you're chickening out-"

"I won't…not again." He glared for a moment. "…I will be there to prove myself as a family man. I can't describe why, but I owe it to your mother to make amends…as well as with Cheri."

Tony glared. "…Good."

"However…I expect the same motivation out of you. Will you be ready to compete in the tournament by the time it rolls around?"

Tony tilted his head, displaying a dry face, then pressed his hand into the rock he leaned against. His hand lit up with magic, then the rock suddenly burst to the pieces. Tony spun onto his feet and rapidly fired into the raining rocks, shooting all of them until they were charred dust. Not a single one hit the ground untouched.

He blew on his smoking finger, then smirked. "Eh…more or less."

Leroy smirked. "This kid…"

As Flint figured, Ella was at the Enchanted Bar, though not moping around like he thought…well, more or less, at least. She was actually taking one of her shifts, now in her waitress uniform. She carried a tray on her head and served it to one of her tables.

"Here are your orders," she announced, psychically planting their food down. "Please enjoy." She hurried off before they could say anything.

Lenny watched her with mixed feelings. While he was happy to have her back at work, he was a tad concerned by her unenthused mannerisms. Usually she would be flirting with some of their customers to sweettalk an extra tip out of them. She hasn't done anything like that, not even take advantage of some of their drunk patrons. She just went about with the orders without any of her charm.

A Shiftry running the bar was mixing a drink before looking at his boss. "She, uh…she okay, boss?"

"I have no idea," the Emboar admitted. "I'm still surprised she popped on into work. Something must be bugging her."

As Ella took the next dish to a customer, she heard the front doors open. She sighed, then turned to the newcomer. "Hello, welcome to the Enchanted Bar. Table for-?" Her eyes widened. "Wes?"

The Umbreon grinned awkwardly and skipped on in. "Heeey, bestie! How's my favorite Espeon doing? Working hard to get those tips?"

"I don't want to talk about it," she said, completely ignoring his question.

Wes' ears drooped. "You…know why I'm here, don't you?"

"Doesn't take a genius to figure out Flint and Gwyn overheard what happened. I was wondering when they would eventually tell you." She sighed. "Look, it's none of your business, Wes. I'm still going to the tournament with you and the others. Not a big deal."

Wes frowned. "El, no offense, but I hate seeing you get angry at your parents. You know they love you."

"They have a funny way of showing it," she grumbled, taking her tray over to her customer, a Malamar. He clapped his tentacles excitedly and waited for his cheesy fries.

Wes walked up behind her. "Aww, that's just their way of showing they love you."

Ella grunted and spun around, with the Malamar's fries still in her psychic hold. The squid frowned. "Wes, they only care about what they want out of me, not what I want. I was never given a choice. Now I'm stuck trying to figure out WHO I am and WHAT I want to be, which is driving me nuts!"

Wes frowned. "…I never drove you nuts, did I?"

Ella eased up, then held her forehead. "…Wes…" She waved her paw around as she talked, unwittingly swaying the fries around while the Malamar tried to grab them. "I get how you were. I guess I was a little stupid to think I could drop an important topic on you while we were out together."

Wes' eyes widened, then he shook his head. "No, no, no! That was my fault! I should've paid attention to you! I was a horrible boyfriend! I can't forgive myself for ignoring your feelings like that!"

Ella sighed. "At least you have good judgment…" She groaned. "This whole thing with my parents is annoying. I don't care what they say. Nothing's keeping me from helping you guys."

"Maybe you should tell them…"

Ella smirked sarcastically. "And how do I start that conversation off? If they weren't overprotective of me before, they'll lock me in a padded cell the second they hear about my fun excursions in a ruined kingdom and encounters with history's greatest MONSTER!"

The Malamar gasped as he reached for his fries. "Wait…are you talking about what happened in Ironworks-?"

"Stay out of this!" Wes and Ella yelled, making the poor squid stagger back.

Ella shook her head. "I'm sorry, Wes, but I refuse to speak to my parents about this. They don't get a say on the matter. If they want to disown me for it, fine. I'll just move in with Flint and Gwyn when they eventually get their own apartment together!" She paused for a moment. "…I heard what I said…and immediately withdraw that plan."

"You could live with me…" Wes mumbled shyly.

Ella blushed a bit. "Um…" She rubbed her nape. "Wes, I…"

Wes quickly got back on topic. "L-Listen, even if that happens, do you really want to live the rest of your life knowing your parents are devastated that they lost a daughter?"

"They could have another one to ruin…"

"Ella!" Wes scolded furiously. "They're your parents!"

"They never cared about me!"

"That's literally the exact opposite of what they were doing!"

"Are you taking their side now?!"

"I'm not taking anyone's side! I just want you and your parents to make up!" Wes frowned deeply. "…I'd be upset if I ever caused a rift between me and Mom…"

Ella's glare softened. "Wes…"

"…My mom worries about me a lot, but…she understands me." He looked away. "If she told me to never go on adventures again, I wouldn't have listened. But…if I did that without talking to her, I'd feel like I'm breaking the trust between us. Unlike you and your parents, we talked. I'm sure if you spoke with them, maybe you'll fine some common ground…or at least clear the air between you guys."

"Is…that why you care so much?" she asked curiously.

He nodded softly. "Well…that, and…a part of me does want their approval." If I ever get the chance to ask you out again, I want the air between me and them cleared, too.

Ella stared at him in awe, then smiled. "Oh Wes…" She set the cheesy fries away from the Malamar, who was now breaking down in defeated tears, and hugged the Umbreon. "What did I do to meet a guy like you?"

He smiled and hugged her back. "I guess…I'm just practicing the advice told to me…"

"You are…" Ella sighed and pulled away. "Right…I won't like it, but…I need to make amends with my folks. I need to make them understand. They won't understand, nor will they approve…but I need to tell them that this is the path I need."

Wes nodded with a beaming grin. "That's my girl," he whispered.

"Huh?"

"N-Nothing!" He darted his eyes, then grinned nervously. "S-So, better get on that now!"

Ella nodded, then looked over at Lenny. "Hey Lenny! I'm taking my break!"

Lenny chuckled. Annnd, there it is. "You know what? Take the rest of the day off. But I want your rear back in here tomorrow! I won't have anymore slacking from you, missy!"

Ella smirked. "Fine, fine!" She smiled at Wes. "Let me get changed first and I'll be right with you." She ran off.

Wes chuckled. "Oh Ella…" He glanced at a lone table and grinned. "Ooh, cheesy fries!" He reached out for one, but jumped back when a pair of tentacles snatched them away.

"MINE!" the Malamar yelled before ducking back into his booth.

Wes blinked. "…What's his problem?"

Elise sighed sourly as she stirred her teacup. She and Owen were trying to take their mind off the other day with some peace and quiet, but their talk with Ava was the only thing on their minds. It was hard to forget the words she spoke and the destiny that's lined up for Ella.

The Death card stuck out to Elise. She was only grateful it didn't actually mean their daughter was walking herself into danger, even if it didn't diminish her worries. From what Elise gathered, it meant that Ella would eventually go through some kind of transformation. Probably not a literal one, but…a change to her routine, whatever that meant.

Elise sighed, then set her cup down, no longer feeling thirsty. "…Are we bad parents?"

Owen looked up from his book. "What? Of course not. Honey, just because Ella snapped at us doesn't mean she hates us. You two were awfully close when she was still a kid. She always went to you for one-on-one time. Taking little beauty trips, keeping secrets from me…" He smirked. "Oh, the little cohort to my money waster."

Elise huffed. "I may be a lady, but I need my exotic chocolates!" She then frowned at her teacup. "But…I do miss those times." She sighed. "…I've heard terrible stories of treasure hunters getting killed on expeditions. It's one thing to be an archeologist or a researcher for organizations. What benefit comes from risking your life on cheap thrills? I just don't get what appeals her to such a destiny."

Owen flipped through his book. "She never said it was her destiny." He frowned. "…Even so, for as much as we want her to succeed, a part of me does see…the selfishness we've taken to get her to take over the family trading business."

Elise sighed. "I had hoped to have wonderful children who would be beaming for a chance to keep the business going." She frowned and settled a paw over her stomach. "…She's our only child…I wanted her to have siblings, but…" She shook her head.

Her silence was all Owen needed. He sighed. "Why have we never considered adoption?"

"Maybe I was just upset I couldn't have anymore children after Ella…maybe I just wanted to have a good relationship with my only daughter and hope she makes something of herself." She glared. "Then she went off galivanting with the Ravenfield boy and…suddenly, she's thrusted into all sorts of dangerous mischief that makes me faint…"

Owen looked up from his book, then slapped it shut. He sighed and removed his reading glasses. "If Ella doesn't want to take up the business, what other choice do we have? I'm sure I have some other family who would willingly take it over." He shrugged. "Or…maybe Ella will have a kid one day who takes up an interest in business."

"Assuming we're even allowed to know our own grandchildren…"

Owen frowned sympathetically at her, then set his book down. "What if we-?"

"Absolutely not."

"You didn't even know what I was going to say."

Elise huffed. "I think I know my own husband better than you think. You're suggesting we let Ella compete in that tournament?"

"For someone who can't use telepathy…"

Elise groaned. "Honestly Owen, do you hear what you're saying? There's nothing logical about taking part in a fighting tournament. What good will that do anyone? It's not something you put on a resume for work at a normal job."

Owen rolled his eyes sheepishly. "I mean…some of my employees should be qualified to use weapons, so…"

"That's not my point. I just wouldn't feel comfortable with Ella making a living purely off treasure hunting or from tournament money. Both have serious risk, though I suppose betting on winning a tournament is the least favorable."

"So, we either force Ella to take up the business-"

"-which would land us in more of a divide between her," Elise added.

"-or we need to try something different."

"And what would that be?"

Just then, a knock sounded off the front door. The two shared a look before Elise got up from the couch and sauntered over to the front door. She opened the door and greeted the visitors with a composed smile, but it fell to a casual frown when she recognized the faces.

Wes grinned awkwardly. "Hi…Mrs. Cipher." Ella was glaring off to the side, refusing to make eye contact. "Um…would it be alright if we talked for a bit?"

Elise poured Wes a cup of tea with her Psychic, sitting across from him and Ella. Owen sat quietly beside her. "This is…an unexpected visit," Owen admitted.

Wes lifted his cup and blew into it. "Yeah…" He looked around. "You, uh…I see you've redecorated since I last came by. Hehe…funny, since you…rarely ever let me in your house…"

"Probably because they think you'll track mud," Ella spat. Wes glared at her. "…Sorry, good behavior, I know…"

Elise leaned back, clasping her paws together. "Ravenfield-"

"Oh, you can call me 'Wes,' Mrs. Cipher!"

"…Ravenfield…" Wes' ears flopped. "To what do we owe the pleasure of this visit? And accompanied by our daughter, no less?"

Wes exhaled. "Right…getting to that…" He set his cup down, then straightened up. "I came here to talk you two into letting Ella compete in the Gelid Peak Tournament."

"No." Her answer was firm and concise.

"Dear-" Owen interjected.

"We made our stance clear. We don't want Ella taking part in anymore of those pointless tournaments."

Wes narrowed his eyes, but felt no anger. He took a deep breath, then said, "And I respect your decision."

"If you don't like it, you can just-" Elise paused, then blinked in befuddlement. "…I'm sorry?"

"I respect your decision."

Elise blinked again. "…This is a joke, right?"

"Not a joke."

"What's your angle?"

"No angles. I am a neat little circle."

Elise looked at her daughter for answers, but only got a resounding 'hmph' and a sharp head turn. Owen leaned forward to chime in. "Ravenfield, why are you here if you already know our answer?"

"Because I want to at least give my two bits on this whole thing."

The Cipher parents looked at each other suspiciously. With their past encounters with the Umbreon, he was often acting like a fool in front of them or talking about some treasure he obscured…or his notable crimes committed in other towns (add that to the myriad of issues they have with him). He was acting…unusually mature this time around. It was off-putting, to say the least.

"…Proceed," Owen allowed hesitantly.

Wes nodded with a quick 'thanks,' then relaxed himself. He took a moment to gather his thoughts, then started, "…Well…first, I just wanted to apologize for my past behavior. I'll admit, if I saw someone with my thrill seeker habits talking it up with my daughter, I might have said some rather unsavory words myself. I suppose you had your rights to make sure I wasn't a danger to your daughter's health.

"That said, I want to say that I don't appreciate half the things you've said about me, or my dad by extension. Yes, I know treasure hunting isn't for everyone, but my old man knew the knack of the trade. I'm only trying to learn my way around it as well, so there's only so much I can get right.

"Secondly, I want to apologize, once again, for putting Ella in danger the way I did. I was devastated as well when her leg got crushed. I wouldn't forgive myself if something worse happened to her. I'd deserve any punishment should I be responsible for her untimely demise. Please understand I have no intention of putting Ella through that again. If it ever came down to it again, I'd gladly take the hit for her." He looked away with an obvious blush. "She…means a lot to me…"

Ella frowned, feeling her own face flushing. "Wes…"

"Thirdly, I understand your stance on Ella adventuring with me and my friends. You're worried something bad might happen to her, or she might not have what it takes to make it out in life with such a dedicated trade. The lifestyle you want to provide her would work far better than running around and collecting rare valuables for clients.

"Again…I'm sorry for the trouble I've caused you." He bowed his head, awaiting their response.

While it wasn't an immediate, verbal response, their faces told a lot. For one, they were once more stunned by the mature approach taken by the Umbreon. Calm, informative, concise; his actions and tone told a great deal more than the words themselves.

Owen came to and closed his mouth. "Um…wow, uh…we…we never thought you'd…um…I…suppose we've been…rather hard on you?" he admitted, though he wasn't sure himself.

Wes nodded. "It's alright. I rarely hold grudges. I never have with you two."

Elise sighed. "That was…a very touching sentiment, Ravenfield…but this hardly changes our minds, you know?"

"I'm aware of that. However, I didn't come here just to talk about that." He looked at Ella, who still kept her eyes off her parents. "…No one side is entirely blameless. One side pressures, the other rebels. There's not trust between anyone. That worries me. I hate seeing families fight like this."

"We're not fighting," Elise immediately said. "We're just trying to help Ella."

"That much, I understand. Not everyone will have an idea of what they want in the future. Sometimes your dream job isn't what you expected."

"You're passionate about magic and even shown interest in the history of magic. That's the kind of enthusiasm someone should bring if they want to teach others about it."

"Teach…? Wait…are you saying…I have the potential…to be a teacher?"

Wes paused for a moment, then lightly shook the memory away. "However…I don't think it helped Ella find out what she wants to be. I know Ella pretty well. She isn't the type to do business trips and work in trade."

Owen interjected, "I thought that way, too, when I was her age, but I spent a lot of time bringing the business up. I've gotten used to it and even learned to love it."

"But Ella isn't you," Wes reminded. "She may like talking about weapons, but…the rest doesn't appeal to her." He shrugged. "I mean, if you needed someone who could sell a weapon, Ella's your girl. She can be pretty persuasive."

Ella's eyes shifted a bit in her parents' direction. "…I do learn some things, even when I'm ignoring them…"

"And, yeah, Ella likes spas, shopping, and all that girly junk-AGH!" Wes winced as Ella twisted his ear.

"Don't go talking like that. If we didn't keep a leash on you, you'd waste our money on spell books," she reminded with a smirk.

He yanked his ear back and cradled it, giving her a sour face. "Fair enough…" He resumed his point, "However…she's also a fighter. Ella may not look it, but she loves getting into fights. She's a talented fighter if given the opportunity. The only reason we placed her as our substitute is because we have a good team combination with the others. But that doesn't make her useless to us. If anything, having her as our substitute guarantees we'll still have a fighting chance, even if I'm taken out of the fight for some reason."

"I see…" Owen mumbled.

Wes looked at Ella, then gave her a light nudge. She stared at him in confusion, then read what he wanted her to do by the face he gave. She sighed, then scratched her foreleg.

"…I didn't mean what I said the other day. Even if we quarrel, I never would hate you two. I just feel like you aren't giving me a chance to figure things out on my own. I do want a successful career in life. I just…don't know what I should pursue. Business is…kind of tempting, I guess. Treasure hunting has its pros and cons. My Ancient Text degree may land me in a teacher job, or maybe work as a historian. I don't know what I want.

"It's just that, you guys put so much pressure on me to become something great that it leaves me with no other choice. I never appreciated being dragged on those boring business trips with you two, nor do I understand all that economic talk. I'm not some wise guru who has all the answers…for myself, at least. When I feel the need to do something, I'll do it on my terms."

Wes nodded. "Sometimes I think Ella would make a better leader than me." He grinned. "When all hope is lost, you can pull off some miracles, Ella. You know when to take charge."

Ella smirked. "I wouldn't go that far, but thanks."

Elise looked thoughtfully at her daughter, then heaved a sigh. "…I don't think I'll ever understand why you're drawn to such pointless activities…" She leaned back into the couch. "…But maybe I've been unfair in the way I've been pushing you. I just don't want to see anything bad happen to you. I still never got an answer to what you've been doing this last year."

Ella looked away. "Better if we kept it like that."

"That's hardly comforting."

Ella frowned a bit, then sighed. "…I was in Ironworks Kingdom when it was attacked."

"What?" her parents gasped, eyes wide in alert.

"That's all I'm going to say. I'm sure you've heard about it."

"Honey, how could we not have?" Elise stressed, now suddenly growing scared. "The news went out as soon as it happened. We heard people were killed in that attack!" She held her head and breathed hectically. "M-My goodness, if we knew you were in the middle of all that, I would've died of a heart attack!"

"Well, I'm fine. That's all you need to know."

Owen glared. "Ella, what on earth are you and your friends up to?"

"I can't really say…" She frowned. "I'm still not sure how much I can trust you guys."

"Then why would you tell us that?!" Elise shouted, trying to get a hold of herself.

"…Because I wanted to see if you still trusted my judgment if that's all I can clue you in on." She hung her head. "It's not our responsibility, but…there are terrible creatures with a lust for death. I want to do the right thing and help my friends. Going to this tournament is a part of that journey. Even if you resent me for defying your orders, I'm going to that tournament. Not for my sake, but for everyone's…including yours. If we fail, everyone will suffer."

Elise was fanning herself, collapsed onto the couch's armrest. "Ella, do you hear what you're saying?! You're willingly throwing yourself into danger! Fighting terrorists! Are you out of your mind?!"

Ella glared. "Probably…I know, I know, 'let the professionals handle it.' Thing is, they've gone too far with what they've done to my friends. If it wasn't my business before, it is now. They almost killed my master and put her through years of anguish. Their lackies have done things to my friends, Gwyn, Tony, and Griffin, that make my stomach turn. I refuse to stop, now knowing what they will do if left to their agenda."

Owen clutched his shirt. "Ella, you can't be serious about all of this…"

"I'm not a weak little girl. I've tangled with these guys before and survived all odds. I'm not going to go down easily, nor will I be dying. I'll keep fighting, getting stronger and stronger. No matter how hard they push me down, I will not fall."

Elise bit her lip. "…You're serious about doing this, aren't you?"

"For the first time in years, I've never been surer about anything." She touched her heart. "I promise…I will not die. I will survive…and I will figure out my destiny. Even if we fight, I want to do something that'll make you two proud. That's all I ever wanted: for you to be proud of my accomplishments."

Silence came after that. The Cipher parents gave hard-pressed stares to the Espeon, who remained absolute in her decision. Wes gave her a confident smile, happy to see Ella was being sure of herself. It was a start, but he saw the seeds of potential finally starting to sprout within her.

Elise sat up, nervous tension wracking through her body. Her teeth were clenched behind closed lips. She looked like she was going to deny her request. The glare told Ella everything. She wouldn't need to read her mother's mind to see the inner turmoil she was facing. Ella was prepared for this. No matter what, there was nothing her mother could say to convince her otherwise.

"…" The older Espeon inhaled, then sighed in defeat. "…Alright."

Wes and Ella blinked twice, wondering if they heard correctly. "Uh…come again?"

Elise looked away. "…I don't want you going on these dangerous excursions. I know the risks, even if I don't know the full story. You're putting yourself in grave danger, young lady." She closed her eyes. "…But I give up."

"Give up?"

"Reasoning won't work. Pleading won't work. And I don't want to go the route of threatening you." She groaned and covered her face. "I don't like fighting you like this…I'm just done with it…"

Ella narrowed her eyes. "Does…that mean…?"

"…Even if you didn't need it…" She looked at her husband, who gave an encouraging nod. "…we'll allow you to attend the tournament."

Ella didn't think she heard those words correctly, but the defeated look said it all. "…What's the catch?"

Elise sighed. "…The catch…is that you better have an answer for us when we see you again."

"An answer?"

"On who you want to be. I'm not trying to pressure you, but…if I'm going to allow this, I will eventually need an answer. Can't say I'll approve of whatever choice you make, but…" Elise closed her eyes. "If it's what you want, and you're certain, this conversation is over. No more pressure."

Wes could see the nervousness in Ella's face as she bit down on her lip. "Th-That so?" He rubbed her back gently, which soothed her a bit. She smiled gratefully at him, then sighed. "…When I see you again, I'll have my answer. I'll know who I want to be. And I will make you both proud."

Owen smiled. "We know, sweetheart."

Elise sighed. "Just…promise me you'll know what you're doing."

"I have since I went on this crazy adventure. I've…pulled off some miracles before." Wes smiled to himself.

"Alright…" Elise looked to Wes. "And…Wes…" He straightened up. "…I'll try and be more understanding of you. I'm…sorry for the way I've treated you."

Wes smiled at her. "Never had a reason to hate you two. We're cool."

Elise smiled back. "Thank you…"

Ella finished the last of her tea, then set her cup down. "Well…this has been fun, but…I should meet back up with Ava for training." She turned away awkwardly. "I'll…see you both around, I guess. Maybe I'll visit for dinner or something. Come on, Wes."

"Ah, right!" Wes grabbed his cup and dumped the rest of his tea in his mouth, then raced after her. "Thanks for the tea, Mrs. Cipher! Later!" The door slammed shut behind him.

Owen covered his face and chuckled quietly into his paw. "Guess he's not completely over his impulsiveness, yet." He looked down at Elise, then frowned at her despondent form. "You alright, dear?"

Elise heaved a sigh. "…I really do miss when she was just my baby girl…"

A week had past, with only one week left until the tournament. Due to the nature of Wes' Warp Tunnel, they were destined to be set back to the ruins of Ironworks Kingdom. From there, their journey to Gelid Peak would take up the rest of their week. They had to get there soon in order to register and book a room.

Vince loaded the Tauros into their harnesses while Team Ravenfield, Morgan, Ava, and the bounty hunters were getting ready to fill the caravan. Vivian, Hal, Lenny, and Ella's parents were there to wish them safe travels.

Hal bent over, hooked his arm around Wes, and ruffled up his fur. "Now, don't be getting yerself into trouble again, or I'll be there to pound some sense into yer thick skull!"

Wes pushed the pirate off and laughed. "Don't worry, Hal. That won't happen again-AGH!" He was grabbed and pulled into a surprise hug with his mother, who had also ensnared Flint.

"Remember to eat well and stay safe, alright? Be good. Don't be too rough in the tournament. I'll be sure to get a crystal ball so I can watch you boys- Oh, Wes, you have a little smudge on your cheek!"

"Mom!" Wes groaned as she started wiping it down.

"And Flint, you be good to Gwyn. She's a very sweet girl. And I want my five grandchildren…"

"MOM!" Flint shrieked. Gwyn giggled behind his back, blushing.

Wes pushed her away. "Mom, Mom, chill! We'll be fine!" He curled his paw. "We're more than ready to take on anyone! You can count on that!"

Vivian sighed, then smiled. "I know you will…I'm very proud of you boys." She gave them another hug, which they wholeheartedly returned.

Tony leaned against the caravan. "Don't you worry about a thing, Mrs. R. I'll keep them out of trouble!"

Griffin rolled his eyes. "And I'll make sure Sparks doesn't get them into more trouble."

"Seriously, have you ever said my name once?"

Lenny sighed and rubbed behind his head. "I get my best employee back for one week and she's already off. Typical…"

Ella smirked. "Eh, don't hold much against it, Lenny. I'll be sure to promote your bar once we take home the victory."

"If you can do that, you'll be getting more than a hefty raise."

Ella snickered. "Sweetness!" She finally faced her parents, giving them a neutral stare. "Mother…Father…"

Elise sighed. "…I'm still not sure about this, but…I want to be a better mother to you."

Ella nodded. "…I will have an answer for you when I see you again."

"I hope so."

"Just so you know," Owen brought up, "if you happen to be back in two months, we won't be around. I have some business to take care of around the Aqua Zone."

Ella waved it off. "Eh, I'm pretty sure I won't be trekking around there anytime soon." She frowned a bit, kicking lightly at the dirt. "Um…so, I'll…see you two around?"

"Yes…of course…"

Ella awkwardly turned away from them and headed over to her team. Elise frowned, at least wanting a hug from her daughter. Owen sighed and patted her back.

Morgan crossed his arms. "Is everyone set?"

"Just about," Flint answered.

"Good. It'll take us a few days to reach Gelid Peak from Ironworks. We'll get you all registered, then you can start focusing on beating Benedict."

Ava then added, "Don't forget you'll have other opponents trying their best to fight him. These tournaments are taken very seriously, so expect stiff competition."

Griffin nodded. "Since Team Shatter Star will be helping us out, our chances are slightly better…unless we have to fight them in the same bracket."

Tony huffed. "Well, either way, we're not losing."

"Come on, you slowpokes!" Cheri shouted, poking her head out the caravan. "Let's gooooo! I want to get front row seats!"

Angel poked her head out. "Now Cheri, you know front row tickets are expensive."

"But this is my first tournament! I want to be close to the action so I can cheer my big brother on! WOOO! TONY! TONY! TONY!" she cheered, waving her arms over her head. This caused her to stumble out.

Tony smirked. "Easy, squirt. Save your voice for the action."

Nebula stuck her head out. "But seriously, we should get going. Traveling in snow is…annoying."

Ava crossed her arms. "Is the entire troupe waiting for us in there?"

"No," said Faye from around the corner.

Mack snickered. "This really is the circus!"

Holly shoved him inside. "Just get in, you idiot."

Wes sighed, then looked back at their friends and family. "I guess we'll be heading out now."

Vivian smiled. "Take care. All of you."

"Give them pests a good walloping for me!" Hal exclaimed.

Lenny crossed his arms. "Next time you come back, drinks are on the house!"

Elise was still frowning, but gave an encouraging nod to her daughter. "Please be safe…"

"We have faith in you, Ella," Owen added.

Ella nodded at them. "Right…"

"All aboard!" Ava shouted, waving the team inside. Wes and Morgan headed to the front with Vince and plopped down next to him. Ava looked back at the adults, gave them a final salute, then closed the door behind her.

Vince grabbed the reins and pulled a cloak over his body. "You boys all set?" The Tauros gave a hearty 'MOO!' The Hawlucha nodded, then gripped the reins firmly. "Ready when you are, Wes."

Wes nodded, then closed his eyes. Morgan placed his hand on Wes' back and transferred an extra boost through him. Wes extended his paws out, concentrated on the space before them, then clicked his digits. "Warp Tunnel!"

A purple portal popped up in front of them. Vince whipped the reins and ordered the Tauros through. The adults waved to the team as they crossed into the portal. Once the end of the caravan past through, the portal closed up behind them.

A tension fell from Elise's shoulders. She shuddered and hugged herself. She felt a pair of appendages wrap around her. She suspected her husband, but was mildly surprised to see it was Vivian. She offered a warm smile to the Espeon.

"Elise…we not be very close, but I understand what you might be going through." She smiled ahead. "But…have faith in Ella. She'll do wonderful things in the future. They all will…"

"…I suppose you're right…"

Vivian giggled. "If…you wouldn't mind the comforts of my shabby home to, what I could only assume, your luxurious palace…would you and your husband care to join me for lunch? I'm making dumplings."

"…Really?"

Vivian nodded. "Like my son, I hold nothing against you two. I'm hoping to start off on the right paw."

The couple shared a look with each other, before Owen smiled. "We would love to, Mrs. Ravenfield. Thank you."

"Just Vivian is fine."

"Then feel free to call me Owen."

Elise sighed, then smiled kindly. "Thank you…very much, Vivian. I think I could use some comfort food right about now."