Chapter 20
The Power Beyond Evolution
When the group from the surface reached the Holy Mausoleum the found quite the event unfolding in front of them. To the far corners the four Ashen Absols and their partners were enclosed in a red ring. The ring seemed to be sapping them of something. Leading to Aelfric were several mercenaries. Most were armed with traditional weapons, but several had creatures by their sides.
Aelfric was at the far side of the room. He stood in front of an alter, his Reuniclus hovering beside him. Laying atop the alter looked be a woman with dark green hair. Despite being a corpse, the body did not look like it had even begun to decompose. It was as if the woman had only recently passed.
N looked over to Byleth. That had to be Byleth's mother.
Behind Aelfric and the alter was an odd looking contraption. It looked to be a coffin standing upright with some kind of tubes connected to it. The tubes glowed with a faint green color, as whatever was inside them moved into the coffin. N was not sure but he could hear a faint voice coming from within the coffin. He pushed that thought aside to focus on the matter at hand Aelfric.
The priest turned to the group and smiled gleefully. "Welcome all! I hope you are all ready to witness a miracle!"
"Stop this Aelfric! You don't know if this will even work!" N called out.
The gleeful smile quickly morphed into a disdainful look. "I will not stop after coming so far! None of you will stop me! If you interfere, I will end your lives!"
"Looks like there's not chance at ending this peacefully," N said to the group.
"Not that there was much of chance anyway," Claude replied with shrug.
"Well, whatever is happening, it's clearly bad," Hilda said.
"Is this really the Rite of Rising?" Dimitri asked.
"Their blood is being drained and turned into raw energy," Linhardt said as he gagged slightly. "That's a lot of blood. This is hard to watch."
"We have to find a way to stop this," N said.
"You have to interrupt the flow! It's halting us being able to do so." Constance called out. "It's crucial to stopping the Rite of Rising!"
Yuri groaned in pain. "We'd love to help, but we can't. We're counting on all of you!"
"We'll have to split up," Byleth said.
"We could just sprint through," Claude suggested.
"While the others hold off the enemy," Edelgard added.
"That'll have to do for now," N said.
"Ashe, Claude, can we count on you guys to push past these guys?" Byleth asked.
The two teens nodded.
"Leave it us, Professor," Ashe said confidently. Grovyle echoed his partner's confidence.
"Just keep those guys off of us," Claude added.
The group quickly split up. N led the group the protected Claude which included Hilda and Edelgard. Byleth led the group protecting Ashe, which had Dimitri and Linhardt. N's group went after Balthus and Yuri, while Byleth's moved to free Hapi and Constance.
N's group did not make it very far as they were quickly pinned to a corner when several creatures started attacking them from a distance. N waited for the volley of attacks to stop before calling out his own.
"Zorua, Dark Pulse!
"Rufflet, join him! Air Slash!"
Both creatures jumped from the corner and fired off their attacks. The attacks connected, kicking up a cloud of dust.
"Claude, now's you chance, go!"
Claude nodded and sprinted forward. His disappeared into the dust cloud. From the dust cloud two mercenaries charged forward.
"C'mon, Hilda. We need to keep them occupied," Edelgard said hefting her axe.
Hilda groaned, but followed the house leader to meet their foes. Despite having the more cumbersome weapon, Edelgard expertly dodged the mercenary's sword swing. She countered the next and used the opening to strike her foe down.
Meanwhile, Hilda did not have the same measured moves as Edelgard, but her own fighting style managed to get her to strike down her own opponent.
N was impressed at how well they managed to fight against opponents with a better range of motion. However, he could not stay in awe for long. The dust cloud dissipated and standing in front of them were three creatures.
"Where'd the other one go?" one mercenary asked.
"Stay focused on us, will you? We're you opponents," Edelgard said.
"Crush them, Manectric! Shock Wave!"
The blue and yellowed furred dog howled as blue electricity collected around it. With a bark it fired off a shot of electricity heading straight for Edelgard and Rufflet.
"Intercept it, Zorua! Snarl!"
Zorua jumped in front of Edelgard and Rufflet and fired off his own attack. The two attacks collided causing an explosion of dust, but it quickly settled.
"Golbat, use Air Cutter!"
The blue bat's wings glowed white and with a strong flap blades of air flew toward Stufful.
"Rufflet protect Stufful with Air Slash!"
The small bird quickly moved in front of Stufful and his own wings glowed white. With a strong flap a single large blade of air flew forward. It easily cut through the ones Golbat shot out and the attack collided with Golbat.
"I'll get you for that! Medicham, Ice Punch!
"It's our turn to pull our weight Stufful! Meet 'em head on with Brick Break!"
Stufful jumped into action with her arm glowing a faint orange color. The small bear's attack collided with the mercenary's Medicham. The two appeared to be in a deadlock as each tried to overpower the other.
"Push through, Stufful!" Hilda called out.
"Finish it, Meidcham!"
Both creatures gave it all they had, but Stufful was starting to be pushed back. With one final push, Medicham's Ice Punch overpowered Stufful and its attack connected. Powered by ice, the attack send Stufful flying backwards.
"Oh, no! Stufful!" Hilda rushed forward to make sure her partner was okay. She was stopped by Manectric launching an attack.
"Hey! Your fight's with me!" N called out.
The mercenary chuckled. "No one said anything against changing targets."
"You bastard. Zoura, Dark Pulse! Aim for Manectric!"
Zorua collected dark energy in his mouth. With a yell, Zorua fired off his attack, connecting with the Manectric.
"We have to do out part Rufflet. Aerial Ace on Medicham!"
Rufflet chirped as it charged into battle. White streaks of energy cloaked Rufflet. Before Medicham could react, the attack connected, pushing the creature back.
Hilda used the chance to check on Stufful. The small bear was already begging to stand, but she appeared to struggle in doing so.
"Are you okay, Stufful?"
The bear grunted in response. While she could not understand what her partner was saying like N could, but she could tell by the look on Stufful's face what she wanted.
"Are you sure you want to keep fighting?"
Stufful nodded in response. The small bear turned in the direction of Medicham. Stufful wanted to prove it was stronger than Medicham.
"Then let's get some payback, literally," Hilda said, adding a wink.
The mercenary chuckled. "Looks like the little bear still wants to fight! I'll bead you down! Finish it Medicham, Zen Headbutt!"
"Hilda get Stufful to dodge! She won't be able to take that attack!" N called out.
"Don't worry Professor, we got this," Hilda replied.
Medicham charged forward, its head glowing blue. Both Hilda and Stufful held their ground. N and Edelgard wanted to intervene, but they were still stuck in their own fights. N wanted to end his as quickly as possible, but Manectric was proving difficult.
Hilda braced herself for the attack, even she knew she was not the one being hit. Stufful did the same and when the attack collided she was easily pushed back. However, to everyone's surprise Stufful was still standing.
"Let's get 'em back with Payback!"
Stufful howled as her two front legs glowed purple. The small bear launched herself forward with her two front legs colliding with Medicham. The force of the attack sent Medicham flying into the wall. The force of the attack left everyone watching the battle in awe. Hilda, meanwhile, was proud of herself, as was Stufful.
N smiled as he saw how proud Hilda was with her partner. She was always one he found difficulty teaching but seeing her connect with Stufful in her own way made him happy. He also had to commend her on her strategy. It was a dangerous gambit, but it worked in taking down a stronger opponent.
N turned to his own opponent, he knew Manectric was running out of steam. It would be a matter of time before the electric canine fell, but his partner was not fairing any better. They had not had a chance to breath since the one-on-one fight began. The two fired off attack after attack, but none were the finishing blow. He was lucky that so many Snarls had hit, with Manectric's drop in ranged attack power Zorua was fairing a lot better.
"I'll finish you off with this next attack," the mercenary threatened.
"Funny, I was about to say the same thing," N replied. "Zorua, Double Team!"
The mercenary growled. "Not this again. Shock Wave!"
Manectric fired off its attack with the precision only Shock Wave could do and stuck the correct Zorua clone. N grit his teeth in frustration. This mercenary knew how to strategize. Which meant it only left him with one attack option. He did not want to, but it would be his only chance.
"Sorry about the floor Rhea," N muttered to himself. "Zorua, Dig!"
The black fox nodded and quickly burrowed into the ground.
"Damn it all! Manectric, watch out!"
The blue furred canine nodded and kept its eyes on the ground. However, despite knowing the attack is coming, the opponent would always look in wrong places.
"Zorua, ascend now!"
The ground beneath Manectric cracked as a Zorua burst from the ground striking the canine. Manectric jumped back slightly, trying to shake off the damage it had taken from a super effective hit.
"Finish it, Zorua! Dark Pulse!"
Zorua got up close and fired off his attack. The dark energy engulfed Manectric and when it dissipated, the canine collapsed to the ground.
"No, Manectric!"
"Surrender. For your partner's sake," N said.
The mercenary looked up and grit his teeth. "Fine."
N sighed in relief and lowered his sword. He turned to see that the other two mercenaries had been defeated and surrendered as well. He turned to the two girl, who nodded.
"Aw man, we missed all the fighting."
The three turned to see Balthus walking up, along with Claude and Yuri. The two Ashen Absols looked tired, but still managed to stay standing.
"Got to them just in time," Claude said.
N nodded. "Great. Let's regroup with the others. Let's hope they rescued the two girls."
The five students nodded in agreement and rushed towards the center of the mausoleum.
—-
On the other side of the mausoleum, Byleth's group was faced with a similar predicament. The only difference was that rather than having battles alongside creatures, the mercenaries fought with close quarters. This made finding an opening for Ashe to help Constance and Hapi very difficult.
"There's just no end to them," Dimitri said as he cut down a mercenary with his lance.
"You can say that again," Linhardt added as he blasted another spell.
"We just need to give Ashe his opening," Byleth said.
"Easier said than done at this point," Linhardt replied.
Byleth looked past the few mercenaries in front of them. There only two and none of them mercenaries had weapons, but were partnered with creatures instead. One was partnered with a Ludicolo, which threw Byleth for a loop. She would have never anticipated a mercenary having such a happy partner. The other had a Shiftry, which felt more natural.
"We have to draw the attention of the two with creatures," Byleth said. "If we can pull them into the fight then it'll draw all the attention to us."
"Then we have to finish off these mercenaries first," Dimitri replied.
"Well, Munna and I are pretty much useless so we'll be hiding," Linhardt said.
As he stepped away, Byleth placed a hand on his shoulder holding him in place.
"We still need you."
Linhardt sighed and turned to face the mercenaries.
"Cover out backs Linhardt," Dimitri said as he leveled his lance.
The green haired student turned to Ashe, who was hidden behind a pillar. Ashe shrugged and wished him good luck. Linhardt sighed and turned his attention forward. He saw Byleth and Dimitri striking down two mercenaries before moving on the next.
Byleth parried a sword swing expertly. For how different it looked, the Sword of the Creator could be wielded like any other blade. It still felt odd to have such a blade, but she was quickly getting used to it. She used the opening from the parry to strike down the mercenary. She then came face to face with the mercenary partnered with Shiftry.
"Well, well, I wondered when you'd make it to me," the mercenary sneered.
"Sorry to keep you waiting."
The mercenary looked two Byleth's two partners. Eevee stood in front of Byleth with a determined expression and brown fur standing on her tips. Meanwhile, her Charmander stood behind his partner.
"Such weak little creatures. This'll be over quick. Shiftry, Razor Leaf!"
Shiftry jumped into the air and swung both of its leafy hands forwards. The motion shot out several blades of leaves towards Eevee.
"Charmander, meet the attack with Ember!"
Charmander jumped from behind Byleth and fired small fire projectiles from its mouth. The fire met the leaves, burning through them. The attack connected with Shiftry, but it appeared largely unhurt.
"Looks like Charmander has gotten over its fear of battles," Dimitri said walking up to Byleth.
Byleth nodded. "He still needs more training, though."
Charmander turned to Byleth and quickly returned to standing behind her.
"And he's still shy around others."
Dimitri chuckled and turned to the mercenary with Ludicolo. "I'll be your opponent. Shinx and I will take you down."
"I'd like to see you try. Ludicolo, Bullet Seed!"
Ludicolo jumped into battle and fired off a barrage of energized seeds.
"Shinx dodge the attack!"
Shinx managed to jump out of the way at the last moment. The energized seeds exploded, causing an explosion of dust.
"Munna, Dazzling Gleam!"
From the smoke, Munna emerged and fired off an attack cloaked in pink energy. The attack hit both Ludicolo and Shiftry, with Shiftry taking the most damage.
"Follow up, Eevee! Take Down!"
Eevee charged forward cloaked in white energy. With her full force Eevee collided with Shiftry pushing it back. As Eevee jumped back, the recoil damage took effect.
"You too Shinx! Attack with Spark!"
Shinx cloaked himself with electricity and charged towards Ludicolo. Shinx jumped and slammed right into Ludicolo's face and electricity enveloped Ludicolo.
"Hit 'em right back, Shiftry! Leaf Blade!"
"Get 'em Ludicolo! Drain Punch!"
Both creatures jumped into battle. Shiftry's leaf hands glowed green while Ludicolo's hand glowed with a blue-green hue. The attacks collided with Eevee and Shinx with their full force. The attack launched both Eevee and Shinx into the pillars behind them.
"Those sure were some strong attacks," Linhardt said.
"You're more than welcome on backing us up, you know," Dimitri countered.
"Focus, you two! We have to take them down!" Byleth said.
"Let's finish 'em!" Shiftry's partner said.
"Couldn't agree more."
"Lampent, Flame Burst!
"Misdreavus, Hex!"
Fire erupted around Shiftry, while a purple glow surrounded Ludicolo. Both attacks looked to do massive damage as both creatures struggled to get back up. Everyone turned to see Constance standing proudly, with Hapi and Ashe standing beside her.
"Ashe! You got them!" Dimitri said.
"Just in time too. Freckles sure moves fast," Hapi complimented.
Ashe felt his hace heat up and turned away. "Well, you two were in trouble."
"Now that we've been freed, I say it's time I show my captors just how strong Lampent and I are!"
"Let's get out of here!"
Both mercenaries helped their partners get to their feet and quickly scrambled out of the mausoleum. Constance was left dumbfounded.
"But I was supposed to to show off my magnificence!"
"Maybe next time, Coco," Hapi said putting a hand on her friend's shoulder. "We should go find N. He'll probably be with the others."
"And knowing him, his fights are probably finished by now," Byleth added.
—-
"No! NO!"
Aelfric turned to the collection of people forming in front of him. They all stood defiantly ready to take him down. All of his forces had been defeated or had run away. His gaze fell on Byleth, the spitting image of the woman he had loved, the woman that had been stolen away from him. He had to find a way. He could still save her.
He glanced to the splicer hovering over Sitri's body. It glowed with an icy blue, it was almost fully charged. He was sure with the power it currently had, he could bring her back. What he had read about the splicers had led him to this moment.
"Stop this, Aelfric!" N called out.
Aelfric turned to the green haired professor. He too was defying him.
"You don't know if this will even work!"
Aelfric grit his teeth. He was outnumbered. Even if he tried to fight his Reuniclus would simply be swatted away. However, he still had one trick up his sleeve. Aelfric smirked, making everyone stand ready.
"I still haven't lost yet. Reuniclus, use Gravity!"
Reuniclus eyes glowed blue and all of a sudden everyone was forced to the ground, even the creatures. It was like they were being crushed by an invisible force. N looked up to see a smug look on Aelfric's face.
"It seems I've outsmarted you lot."
"What the hell is going on?" Balthus struggled to say.
"I can't move," Claude said.
Aelfric laughed. "None of you will be able to escape now." He turned to Byleth and a somber expression came to his face. "I can't believe that you would raise your sword against me." He pointed toward the lifeless corpse on the alter. "Your mother lies here, waiting for us. For you! Don't you want her back?"
"Don't listen to him, Byleth!" N called out.
"How can you be sure that's even my mother? I never even met her," Byleth said.
"There is no room for doubt. I know her appearance better than anyone. Even Jeralt would instantly recognize her. This is her," Aelfric replied. "She died 20 long years ago."
"I doubt anyone who died two decades ago would be in such pristine condition," Dimitri argued.
Aelfric smiled. "Isn't it incredible?! Almost like she was untouched, even after all this time." Aelfric turned to the body behind him. "Perhaps she is different. Fated to remain ageless. A secret only she knows."
Aelfric slowly walked up the steps up toward the alter. He carefully put the back of his hand against Sitri's cold cheek. He sighed and hung his head.
"It's been 10 long years since I found her, deep underground. It was like her body was frozen in time." Aelfric removed his hand form Sitri's cheek and slammed his closed fist onto the alter. "I have worked tirelessly to solve the riddle of her death and bring her back to life. I was lucky someone else was interested in what I wanted to achieve."
"Stop this at once, Aelfric!"
Aelfric turned to see Rhea and Alois, along with his Onix, walking toward everyone. She looked at everyone pinned to the ground, but her fierce expression remained.
"Rhea…" He glanced over to Reuniclus. "Reuniclus, Gravity!"
The gelatin creature furthered its range, but in doing so lessened the pressure on the others. The group of students managed to get on one knee, no longer forced to be flat on the ground.
"You are the cause of this! It was you who killed her! When she gave birth to a child who made no sound."
At that, N turned to Byleth a concerned expression on his face. He remembered a something Byleth had told him, about her heartbeat. He did not believe it, and never did, he thought it was just a morbid joke she would tell. Hearing what Aelfric had said changed his mind slightly. It was never a front, but something more.
"What have you done to her?! Why does her body remain when her spirit is elsewhere?!"
Rhea shook her head. "I do now owe you a thing. However, I will tell you this: she made the choice to die, so that her offspring might live. I respected her will. Nothing more."
Everyone let out a shocked gasp. N kept his eyes on Byelth. She had yet to react to anything that had been said. However, N knew she felt something. He had known her long enough that the slightest movement could tell so much.
"I view you just the same as her. Cease this futility. Whoever told you about the power of the splicer was wrong," Rhea said.
"No! You expect me to believe you without question?" He turned back to Sitri's body. He looked up to the splicer and reached out. "I'm finished with you Rhea. I will complete this ritual."
"Aelfric stop!"
Aelfric grabbed the splicer and energy poured out from it. Aelfric felt the power that roared, it felt like his arm was being torn apart.
"Stop this Aelfric! You don't know what you're doing!" Byleth called out.
"Be not afraid, little one. For she shall return to us soon!"
Aelfric raised the splicer into the air and slammed it down. Everyone braced for what would happen, but there was nothing. A stillness filled the mausoleum. Everyone turned toward the alter to see what had happened and were shocked at what they saw. Somehow the body was repelling the splicer, similar to a magnet.
"What is going on?" Aelfric muttered as he fought against the repelling force.
"Is it the splicer that's rejecting the body, or the other way around?" Constance asked.
"How could this be? I did everything right! Why isn't working?!" Aelfric exclaimed.
"Becasue that was never their purpose, Aelfric," Rhea said.
Aelfric turned to Rhea, fury etched in his expression.
"If I can't bring Sitiri back, then I still have my project." Alefirc walked past the alter toward the standing coffin behind it. "Some of the energy from the ritual poured into this coffin. I will bring something to life!"
"What is he doing now?" Hilda asked.
"Reuniclus, keep them in place! I want them to see what comes forth."
Reuniclus increased her power output, but it was not enough to return everyone to the ground. Aelfric opened a small hole and jammed the splicer into it. As Aelfric backed away, the coffin began to shake. Whatever was behind it, the pressure dwarfed what Reuniclus could manage. The gelatin creature released her hold on everyone and quickly teleported to her master's side.
"What's inside that thing?" Hapi asked.
"Nothing good. That's for sure," Yuri replied.
Suddenly the shaking came to a stop. An eerie silence filled the mausoleum. Then the coffin exploded, the top came flying off and lodged itself into a wall. Everyone's partner seemed to know what was going on before anyone else, as they were all growling and ready to fight.
N could hear a voice, a chaotic one. So many thoughts and voices rushed into his mind. He fought the headache that was forming, but through it all he could hear a singular thought.
Where am I?
N looked up to see something emerging from the coffin. His eyes widened as he stared at something he had never seen before.
"What the hell is that?" Edelgard asked.
What stood before them was a creature, one no one had seen before. Its body was a faded purple, almost grey color. Its long tail was a darker purple that ended with a small bulb. It looked humanoid, as it was bipedal but that as where the similarities stopped. It had a cat like face with a fierce expression and had two short, blunt horns atop its head. It chest almost looked like a breastplate and it had long, thin arms with fingers that ended in small balls.
"I've never seen anything like it before," Rhea said.
Aelfric laughed, but it sounded like the cackle of a madman. "What you see before you is my other project. Meet the strongest creature in all the world: Mewtwo!"
"Wait, Mewtwo? As in the legendary creature Mew?" N asked.
"You're precisely right. I managed to find fossilized Mew DNA and with some help from a benefactor, for the last 10 years I have building this creation. Now no one can stop me! Mewtwo destroy them all!"
Everyone prepared for a fight against Mewtwo, but to their surprise the creature did not move. It kept its head moving side to side, as if taking in a new environment. It held out its hand and its body began to glow purple as its eyes closed.
"What's it doing?" Linhardt asked.
"Beats me, pal," Balthus replied.
"Mewtwo what are you doing? I am your creator, your master, you will do as I order you!"
Mewtwo's eyes then shot open and its grabbed its head. It slowly floated to the ground and fell to one knee.
"It's in pain!" N said.
He rushed over to Mewtwo, but found himself being flung back.
So many voices…
Everyone stopped. They all turned to Mewtwo as it still had its hands on its head.
"Did it just talk?" Ashe asked.
"I definitely heard it in my head," Hapi said.
Too many voices. So much rage, pain, hate.
N quickly realized what was going on. Mewtwo was a psychic type. Many had the ability to read minds, but Mewtwo's power was even more developed than a normal psychic type. Mewtwo's reach must have extended to beyond the mausoleum. It was likely taking in noise form everyone in the monastery.
"Focus on my voice only, Mewtwo! Do as you're told and destroy them!" Aelfric called out.
Mewtwo shot out its arm and Aelfric found himself slammed into the wall. The impact knocked him out instantly. Reuniclus quickly teleported to her partner's side and teleported the two out of the mausoleum.
"We can't let him get away!" Yuri exclaimed.
"We can worry about that later. Right now we have to calm Mewtwo down," N said.
Before they could make a move on Mewtwo, the ground began to shake. Everyone knew what it meant. They all turned around and saw the cracks in the ground beginning to form. The ground then collapsed and from within Regirock jumped out. However, the shaking did not stop. A wall collapsed and Registeel emerged from it. Close behind it was the third golem, Regice.
"Now them too!" Hilda complained.
"Just give me a second." N said. He gave one last look towards Mewtwo before turning to the three golems.
Regirock warbled as its eyes quickly flashed a pattern.
"We did not do this!" N said.
Registeel warbled next.
"We never intended for this to happen! This was all orchestrated by Aelfric," N reasoned.
Regice replied.
Enemy to Pokémon…
N's blood went cold. He turned to Mewtwo. It was starting to regain its composure. If Mewtwo sided with the golems then none of them would stand a chance.
"We're not the enemy!" Dimitri said. His eyes darting between the golems and Mewtwo.
"He's right! Our partners are our friends!" Ashe added. His Grovyle agreeing with his words.
"No one here is out to harm the creatures," N said.
Regirock warbled. Its eyes flashing a sequence that N recognized.
I will not allow you humans to harm any Pokémon.
N turned to Mewtwo. "No, Mewtwo, we would never!"
"Please understand, Mewtwo, the one who brought into this world is the one who means to do harm," Rhea said.
Mewtwo turned to Rhea. It appeared to study her carefully. Mewtwo's gaze narrowed.
You lie. Your thoughts betray you.
The golems all warbled.
"Looks like they're all in agreement," Claude said nervously.
"We can't fight them all off. None of us would stand a chance," Edelgard said.
"There will be no fighting!" N exclaimed.
"Yeah? Well tell that to them!" Hilda replied.
N's mind was running a mile a minute. They were all caught between powerful creatures, all of which could decimate them in an instant. They could not fight them, there was no way. The only option they had was to convince Mewtwo and the golems that they were not at fault for what happened with Aelfric. But based on how the four reacted, that seemed impossible.
Is the only option really to fight? N thought. Mewtwo has a similar belief as me. For ten years it must've been listening from within that coffin to all kinds of things. It must've realized that Aelfric was evil and surmised that all humans followed suit. Hearing the voices of everyone in the monastery did not help either.
N turned to Mewtwo. Its glared hardened as N walked toward it.
"Mewtwo, whatever you might've heard from Aelfric, it doesn't apply to all humans! You must understand that!" N pleaded.
Mewtwo shook its head. All humans are the same. Your thoughts betray your words too. The golems are correct. Humans cannot be trusted.
"Then listen to our partners! They would not be by our side if they did not trust us!" N replied. "I know the hearts of creatures and I know that Zoura and I are the best of friends!" At his side, Zorua yelped its own affirmation.
Mewtwo hesitated. It cocked its head to the side as it thought on N's words. N inwardly sighed in relief. If he could get Mewtwo to back down the golems would likely follow.
Regirock warbled.
N's hopes immediately sank. "No…"
Mewtwo's gaze hardened. You claim to know the hearts of Pokémon, but you allow harm to befall them. Mewtwo began to float into the air. Prove to me the bond you speak of.
"You gave it your best shot," Yuri said, walking up to N, "but they aren't listening."
"I guess we have no other choice but to fight," Caude said.
"Mewtwo's a psychic type, right?" Yuri asked.
N nodded.
"Great. Then I guess it's time for Absol and I to show Mewtwo the strength of our bond."
Yuri and Absol walked past N. He pulled up his sleeve to reveal a kind of metal band around his wrist. Embedded into the band was a stone that looked almost like a marble.
"Back me up will ya? Two dark types are better than one, right?" Yuri asked, a confident smile forming on his face. "The rest of you, hold off the golems."
"What are you planning, Yuri?" Edelgard asked.
Yuri shrugged. "You'll just have to wait and see."
Yuri turned to Mewtwo. "You wanted proof of our bonds?" He held up the metal band for all to see. "Then this power can only be achieved when our bond is at its strongest!" He brought his arm down and turned to Absol. "You ready, Absol?"
Absol nodded and turned to Mewtwo.
"Are you really gonna show them, Yuri?" Balthus asked.
"There's no other choice. How about taking doing one of those golems while I take down Mewtwo?" Yuri asked.
"My pleasure. Let's go Grapploct!"
Grapploct growled in agreement and followed his partner.
"Yuri, what're you…?" N asked.
"I'm about to show you."
Yuri turned to Mewtwo and prepared himself for a tough fight.
"Absol, let's show them the strength to go past your current form!" Yuri held up the metal band as the marble began to glow. "Push past your current limits and soar to even greater strength!"
Yuri pressed two fingers onto the marble and tendrils of energy exploded from it. A similar marble around Absol's neck began to glow as well. With a strong howl, tendrils of energy exploded from Absol and connected with Yuri's.
"Show everyone your full strength!"
Absol was enveloped by a rainbow colored energy and he began to change. Absol's fur began to change as the fur on his sides grew upwards taking the appearance of wings. The fur on its face elongated to cover his left eye. The horn on the side of his head grew wider and took the shape of an S, with a second, smaller horn growing out of the left side of his head.
As the energy was released, Absol howled showcasing his new power and appearance. No one had seen anything like it before. N looked in awe at Absol. He could feel the power that burst forth and if what Yuri said was true it could only be achieved via the strength of their bond.
The pressure that Absol exerted even stopped Mewtwo and the golems. The four looked at Absol curiously, wondering what kind of power her had. However, they quickly snapped out of it and regained their composure.
"Ready to go, N?" Yuri asked.
N nodded and stepped to be side by side with Yuri. "If the only way to prove out bonds is through battle, then so be it."
"The rest of you, keep those golems off our back!" Yuri called out.
"We'll certainly try," Constance said.
"I hope you can keep up, 'cause I ain't holding back," Yuri said.
"Maybe that's for the best," N said.
This will not convince me. Show me the strength of this so called bond.
"You asked for it. Absol, Night Slash!"
"Zorua, Snarl!"
Absol jumped into the air with his horn glowing purple and with a swing of his head a large blade of black energy slammed into Mewtwo. While a wave of dark energy from Zorua followed soon after.
N marveled at Absol's enhanced strength. It was like seeing him undergo a transformation, but it was still Absol. He could tell that his power was almost doubled. Even Mewtwo found it difficult to compete.
"Incredible. So much power," N muttered.
"Despite that power, Absol can't take too many hits. We better finish this fast," Yuri said.
N nodded and focused on Mewtwo. He could hear the battle against the golems behind him, but kept his attention square on Mewtwo.
Mewtwo lifted itself up into the air again, shaking off the damage it took.
That will not be enough to stop me.
Mewtwo held out its hand and sphere of blue energy began to form. Mewtwo released the sphere which flew at an incredible speed. Yuri and N were shocked as they did not have a moment to call out to their partners. The ensuing explosion forced the two to bring up their arms and cover their eyes.
"What a powerful attack!" Yuri cried out.
When the dust settled, N was shocked to see Zorua standing in front of Absol. His partner had taken the attack that was intended for Absol.
"Zoura!"
You would take the attack intended for another?
Zorua struggled to stand, but it growled defiantly toward Mewtwo.
Foolish beliefs. My stronger attacks may not work, but I will show you the error in your thinking.
Mewtwo charged another sphere within its hand. This time is was a dark purple color. Mewtwo fired it, but its speed was much slower compared to the previous attack.
"Meet the attack, Absol! Shadow Claw!"
Absol jumped into battle. His front claws extended with a purple aura. Absol slashed at the purple sphere quickly dissipating the attack.
"Follow up with Dark Pulse, Zorua!"
Zorua fired off its attack, but Mewtwo was quick to retaliate. It charged up the blue sphere again and shot it toward the oncoming attack. The two attacks met, but the blue sphere was overpowering Zorua's attack.
"Absol, Psycho Cut!"
Absol's horn glowed with a pink color. With a swing of his head, he fired off a blade of pink energy. However, he was not aiming for Mewtwo, but for the blue sphere. All three attacks collided leading to a massive explosion.
Seeing everything play out made N realize something, he had seen the two attacks before. The blue sphere he had seen being used by a Lucario and the purple one by the many ghost types he had encountered over the years.
"Yuri, I think those two attack are the only ones Mewtwo can hit us with," N said.
"I figured, but why is the blue sphere attack so damn strong!?"
"It's fighting type move called Aura Sphere. I've only ever seen Lucario use it, but it seems Mewtwo is capable as well."
"Fighting type attack? We can't keep getting blasted by that," Yuri replied.
"I agree, but it seems Mewtwo can take more than I thought," N said.
"Give me an opening and I'll hit it with everything we've got," Yuri said.
N nodded in response. He turned to Zorua. "You ready, buddy?"
Zorua yipped in agreement and turned to Mewtwo.
"It's up to us buddy. Use Double Team!"
Zorua's body flashed white as copies of him jumped out. Mewtwo's eyes darted between all of them, trying to find the right one. It charged a Shadow Ball in each hand a fired them off in random directions. Repeating the process as it failed to hit the real black fox.
These tricks aren't enough.
"Zorua, Snarl!"
All the Zorua clones stopped jumping around and encircled Mewtwo. They all let out a screech cloaked in dark energy. Mewtwo took the attack and began to charge an Aura Sphere. It quickly opened its eyes and fired off the attack. It connected with the real Zorua, causing all the clones to vanish instantly.
"Zorua!"
N rushed to Zorua's side, but Mewtwo's psychic energy pushed him back.
"Now's our chance, Absol! Night Slash!"
Absol was behind Mewtwo and jumped into the air. His horn glowed with dark purple energy and with a swing of his head a large blade blasted towards Mewtwo. Mewtwo turned and brought up its arms across its face. The attack connected, rocketing Mewtwo to the ground. N used the chance to get to Zorua. Despite his protests, his partner was no longer fit to fight Mewtwo.
"Zorua can't battle anymore. It's up to you and Absol now," N said.
"That's fine. You helped make a dent in it," Yuri said.
Absol return to his partners side. N could tell that Absol was almost out of stamina. Keeping up with Mewtwo's power output was a challenge even with the power upgrade.
"It's only been using two attack and we can barely keep up," Yuri said.
"I wouldn't want to see this thing at full power," N added.
Mewtwo rose from the ground, but it staggered. It tried to rise into the air again, but it no longer had the energy to do so. It sent a glare toward its opponents and its gaze fell on N clutching Zorua in his arms. N turned away from Mewtwo, making sure he was in the way of any cheap shot the creature might attempt.
You would protect Zorua, even with your own body?
Yuri and N looked at each other. Yuri shrugged, but kept his guard up.
"Of course I would! Zorua is my best friend! I would sacrifice anything in order to keep him safe."
Zorua wiggled his way out of N's arms and landed on the ground. He yipped toward Mewtwo, sharing his own feelings for his partner.
You would do the same?
Mewtwo looked between N and Zorua, then between Yuri and Absol. It looked past them to the group fighting the golems. They were barely hanging on, but continued to give it their all. Mewtwo focused on their inner voices. Underneath all their turmoil, there was genuine love for their partners. For some it was greater than others, but it was still there. What it would overhear from his creator was being proven wrong right before it.
Mewtwo focused on N and could understand better what he had said. He truly did understand the hearts of creatures. It was almost like a human had the heart of a creature.
Mewtwo dropped its guard and brought its arms to its sides. Yuri was about to take a shot, but N stopped him by raising his hand.
"Are you sure?" he whispered.
N nodded. "Yeah. I think we're getting through."
I may have judged too early. Perhaps not all humans are evil.
The sounds of battle behind them began to quiet down. N turned to see the three golems looking up toward Mewtwo.
"What's happening now?" Linhardt asked.
Mewtwo looked to the golems and nodded. The three warbled something and began to retreat. Each disappearing from where they came. Everyone turned to Mewtwo as it slowly began to float into the air again.
While there is still much conflict between humans and Pokémon, all of you have shown me that bridging the gap is possible.
"That's my hope, Mewtwo," N replied. However, something gave him pause. Mewtwo had said 'Pokémon' when it referred to the creatures. He wondered if that was what the true classification for the creatures was.
Mewtwo looked between everyone. Its gaze lasting longer on several people, with it lasting longer on Edelgard and Rhea, who had never left the mausoleum. It turned back to N, who was now standing next to Byleth. Between the two of them, Mewtwo saw something special.
Perhaps even I have yet to learn everything about this world.
"That is something everyone struggles with, Mewtwo."
Mewtwo nodded. I will warn you, human. You will be betrayed. Beware those you call friends.
A shocked gasp escaped everyone. They all looked between each other wondering what Mewtwo meant.
"How will we know?" N asked.
Mewtwo shook its head. I don't have knowledge of the future.
N looked to the ground pondering Mewtwo's words. He knew something was brewing he could feel it.
"I'll be careful, Mewtwo." N gestured to everyone around him. "We all will."
Mewtwo nodded. Good luck, human.
"Where will you go?" N asked.
Mewtwo pondered the question for a moment and shrugged. Though it did not raise both shoulders at the same time making the gesture look odd. The group tried to stifle their laughter.
I do not know yet. Perhaps I shall find my creator first and ask him why he gave me life.
N smiled. "Good luck, Mewtwo. I hope you find the answers you're looking for."
And I, you.
In a flash of purple light, Mewto vanished. It left everyone with hope for the future but also a warning of what is to come.
—-
When Mewtwo and the three golems vanished the pressure in the mausoleum all but vanished. Everyone felt like they could breathe easier. N turned to the group, making sure everyone was safe. After many hard battles, everything seemed to be over. While Aelfic had escaped, most seemed to understand that his threat vanished.
N turned to Byelth, who was staring at the alter. Her mother's body was still there, untouched. She slowly walked towards it and N followed behind her. He did not know what to say, but he knew he should remain silent.
Byleth ascended the steps and stood in front of the alter. Her gaze firmly on her mother. N could not even begin to fathom what emotions were running through her. Her partners Eevee and Charmander both climbed to be on her shoulders. The two looked between their partner and her mother.
N smiled. At least she had her partners with her.
"It's odd," Byleth began to say.
N turned towards her, curious as to what she wanted to say.
"I never really cared about knowing who my mother was, but everything Aelfric knew made me curious."
"I'd imagine. Though I wonder why Jeralt never told you anything," N replied.
Byleth shrugged. "I'm sure he had his reasons. I'll just have to ask him now that I know more."
"Do you need me to be there?" N asked.
Byleth turned to him. A small smile tugged at her lips. "I would like that."
Byelth turned away from her mother, but gave her one last look. "It was nice to meet you, Mother."
Byleth descended down the steps, with N close behind. Once again he was not sure on what to say, so he figured silence was the best option. Inwardly, he was glad that Byleth now know more about her mother. If he was in her shoes, he would have wanted to know more.
"I think I heard her voice."
N paused and looked up. He rose an eyebrow, unsure as to what Byleth meant.
"What do you mean?"
"When Mewtwo spoke, I heard a voice I'd never heard before. However, it felt familiar." Byleth turned to N. "What about you?"
N scratched that back of his head. "Not too sure. I wasn't paying too much attention. I was kinda overwhelmed with everything else. Plus my mind is on something else."
"I can image. I'd never seen you sweat so much."
N rolled his eyes. "Very funny."
When the two rejoined everyone else, Rhea was talking with the Ashen Absols. N managed to overhear that she had pardoned them for what happened as they were not entirely responsible for what happened. Though, N was surprised to hear that Yuri was really working for Rhea all along. N had to hand it to him, he sure was crafty.
"There's still the matter of the splicers," Dimitri said.
"Oh, right! Didn't Aelfric jam it into that coffin?" Hilda asked.
"I'll retrieve it at once," Alois said.
"Thank you Alois," Rhea said.
Before any one could move, a gust of cold wind filled the mausoleum. Just as quickly as it appeared, it was gone. For most, it was odd to feel such a gust while beneath the ground, but for a few they immediately know what was going on.
"Oh my, that was quite the fight."
A singular voice rang out in the mausoleum. It was deep, but held a bit of playfulness to it. Everyone's eyes darted around trying to find where the voice was coming from.
"However, you all did most of the heavy lifting for me. I appreciate it."
Another gust passed between everyone, forcing them all to turn towards where the coffin once stood. When they did, they saw a man with long white hair with a mask over his mouth. He wore a tight shirt and loose pants. At his side was an Accelgor.
"Who are you?" Claude demanded.
The man bowed. "My name is Kage. It is a pleasure to meet you all. However, my time is brief. I'll be taking the DNA Splicers."
"What the hell are you doing here?!"
Everyone turned to see N and they all took a step away from him. His face had contorted into one no one had ever seen before. It was a combination of hatred and fear. N's hand reached for his sword.
"Master N! It is good to see you again," Kage said.
"Master N?" Linhardt asked looking toward the green haired professor.
"Do you know this scoundrel, N?" Constance asked.
N did not say anything. His breath had become ragged and his whole body began to shake.
"Your father will be most pleased to see you unharmed."
"That man is not my father!" N spat. "You won't be taking me back there! Back to him!"
Kage looked confused for a moment before composing himself. "That was not the mission I was assigned."
"I'll never go back there." N muttered. "You won't take me back!"
N charged forward with speed no one had ever seen before. Behind him a symbol seemed to flash for an instant. He drew his sword and jumped into the air. He brought his sword down, aiming for Kage's head. However, the white haired man was quick to draw his short sword and easily blocked the attack.
When N landed he quickly moved to attack again. He swung horizontally, but Kage was ready to parry it. N adjusted his grip and went for another attack, which Kage once again blocked.
"Is this really what Jeralt taught you? He'd be most disappointed," Kage said.
"Keep his name out of your mouth!" N roared.
N swung again, but Kage dodged this time. Kage jumped into the air and drew a knife with his free hand. He threw it at N, but the green haired teen managed to block it. As Kage landed, N was there to strike. He aimed for Kage's free hand, but in a quick motion Kage drew another knife and blocked the attack. However, his guard was weak and N managed to knock the knife out of his hand.
Kage was caught by surprise. He did not know N was capable of such strength, though he managed to catch the flash of a symbol behind him. There was a chance he might have underestimated N, but his sword play was still weak. He left too many openings. If Kage was taking this fight seriously, the he had a multitude of openings to finish it. However, his master needed N alive and unharmed and Kage would never defy his master's orders.
Kage changed the direction of the fight and had N charging back toward the destroyed coffin. He needed to recover the DNA Splicers.
"I've never seen Professor N like this," Ashe said.
"He's been consumed by bloodlust. He truly wants the man dead," Dimitri added.
"Yeah, but who is the ninja guy?" Balthus asked.
"Clearly someone N knows based on his reaction," Claude reasoned.
"Do you know who he is, Professor?" Edelgard asked.
Byleth shook her head. She wanted to intervene. She desperately wanted to help her friend. He was so consumed by rage that he fought with a sword rather than with Zorua by his side. She had never seen him act so aggressive. She hated that all she could do was stand and watch.
When the fight made it back to the coffin, Kage knew this would be his only chance. The others would soon be freed from their confusion and that would make grabbing the splicers difficult. He let out a breath and focused. While N's attacks were sloppy, he still knew how to wield a sword.
"This fight ends here, Master N."
"I won't let you take me back there!"
N charged and raised his sword into the air. Kage expertly parried the downward swing and swung N's arm around and forced him to drop his blade. In one quick motion he switched his sword grip to be reversed and struck N's stomach with the pommel.
With the wind knocked out of him, N collapsed to the ground. He tried to take in breaths, but he found it impossible.
"I'm sorry, Master N. However, I have a mission to complete."
Kage knelt down a picked up the DNA Splicers. It was still intact even after the coffin exploded. His mission was a success.
"Quick, stop him!" Hapi called out.
Everyone rushed toward Kage, ready to stop him.
"Accelgor, Sandstorm!"
Accelgor jumped in front of its partner and began to generate particles of sand. With a grunt it released everything it had built up, engulfing the mausoleum in sand.
"Onix, disperse the sand!" Alois called out.
Onix let out a groan and just as fast the sand appeared, it was gone. Everyone looked up to see Kage was gone and had taken the DNA Splicers with him.
"N!"
Byleth rushed to her firend's side, with Hapi and Edelgard right behind her. The others followed close behind. When she found him, she was horrified to see the state he was in. He was on both knees, his upper body slightly hunched over. His eyes were wide open and tears were streaming down his cheeks. He muttered something incomprehensible. He did not even register that Zorua was trying to get his attention. Byleth had never seen him so afraid.
"N, I'm right here."
She reached out to him but N's eyes grew even wider and he slapped her hand away.
"Get away from me! I won't go back! I can't go back! You'll never take me back there!"
N put his hands over ears and closed his eyes. He continued to mutter things only he could hear.
"I've never seen him like this," Byleth said.
"He's terrified," Hapi said.
"Of what?" Edelgard asked.
"Could it be of that guy?" Claude asked.
Byleth shook her head.
"Maybe it's something he said," Linhardt guessed.
"That man, Kage, he did mention N's father," Dimitri said.
N's eyes shot open. "That man is not my father! He's a monster! I'll never go back to him!"
Everyone looked between each other. No one knew what to do. They had never seen N so vulnerable before, so afraid. Byleth tried to reach out again, but found her hand swatted away again. Byleth turned to Rhea, who looked at N with a saddened expression.
"What do we do?" Byleth asked.
"We need to get him out of here." Rhea turned to Linhardt. "Linhardt, can Munna put N to sleep?"
"I can certainly try," Linhardt said, with more conviction that usual. "Munna, use Yawn."
Munna opened her mouth and pink cloud formed in front of her. With a soft grunt, Munna released the cloud. When the cloud touched N it slowly grew over his arm until it cover his whole face. When the clouds dissipated, everyone found N to be asleep but he was still muttering.
Byleth turned to Rhea. "Thank you."
"But of course. I was worried about him too," Rhea replied.
"Let's get him to Abyss. We can rest and regroup there. Then we can begin to talk about what happened here," Yuri said.
"I agree. Lead the way, Yuri," Rhea said.
"Balthus, can you…?" Byleth trailed off.
"Of course, Professor. I'll be sure to be gentle," Balthus said.
"Thank you."
Byleth gave one last look to N. He still appeared to be muttering. Whatever had happened between him and Kage made her frightened by whatever caused N so much fear. Her only hope was that N at least began to open up to her.
—-
Back in Abyss, Edelgard paced back and forth in front of the Ashen Absol dormitory. Everyone else was present too, with only Byleth and Rhea missing. Those two were with N. Byleth refused to leave his side, while Rhea was concerned for his well being.
Edelgard was worried too, but for other reasons. So much had happened in such a short time that her mind was just now catching up. First there was Mewtwo and the golems, then there was Kage's appearance, finally was N's break down. When it came to Mewtwo and the golems, that was simply the final outcome of Aelfric's plan. She pushed those events aside. Kage's appearance greatly worried her. He must have known about Aelfric's plan somehow. Aelfric had mentioned a benefactor, but never gave a name. Her only guess was that her own benefactor was helping.
Finally, there was N's breakdown. He had mentioned to her when they first spoke beneath the moonlight that he had a troubled past. His reaction to Kage and his words meant he was somehow connected to him. However, whatever made him react in such a way put doubts in her mind of the connection. She would have to investigate that later.
"You know, Princess, we're all worried about him," Claude said, breaking Edelgard from her thoughts.
"I agree with Claude. I doubt pacing like that will help calm your nerves," Dimitri added.
Edelgard shook her head and put her fingertips on her forehead. "My apologies. It's just so much happened and I'm trying to wrap my head around it."
Yuri chuckled. "No kidding. One minute we're taking a breather from fighting what amounts to gods, the next someone's having a mental breakdown."
"I wouldn't go as far as to call them gods," Edelgard replied.
Yuri shrugged in response.
"I still can't believe what happened to N. He always looked so composed," Hapi said.
"He has said he would like to refrain from talking about his past," Linhardt replied.
"Do you guys know anything about him?" Balthus asked, referring to the students from the surface.
The six students looked between each other and shook their heads. However, Ashe did seem to squirm a bit.
The door to the dormitory opened, those who were sitting down shot to their feet. Byleth and Rhea exited the room, with Rhea looking as composed as ever while Byleth looked somewhat defeated.
"How is he?" Hilda asked.
"Finally managed to actually fall asleep. He only just stopped muttering nonsense," Byleth replied.
"What could've caused for him to react in such a way?" Constance asked.
"Could it have been the mention of his father? You all heard how he reacted to that," Linhardt said.
"If that is the case, whoever that man may be he is no father to N. No one should be that afraid of one's family," Dimitri said, his expression hardening.
"Not everyone has the luck to have loving parents, Didi. The rest of the world isn't as noble as Faerghus," Hapi retorted.
Dimitri looked like he was about to respond, but he kept his words to himself. His expression did soften somewhat.
"If that is true, N turned out a lot better than most," Claude said.
"Does anyone know who his father is?" Balthus asked.
Once again everyone, except Ashe, shook their heads. The only one who caught it was Byleth, who turned to the grey haired student curiously.
"Has N talked to you about this before Ashe?" Byleth asked.
All eyes turned to him. Ashe shifted uncomfortably beneath all the stares. He shifted his gaze toward the ground trying to avoid all the stares.
"You know something, don't you, Ashe?" Edelgard asked.
Ashe tried to back away, but he knew it would make him look more suspicious. He relented with a sigh.
"I do know a little. But I promised to not say anything," Ashe said.
"Ashe, if you know something please tell us," Rhea insisted calmly.
Ashe let out a defeated sigh. "Fine, I'll say what I know. I'm sorry, N."
Ashe retold everything N had told him. When he said that N was adopted, a surprised gasp escaped many. Like Ashe, they all had thought N and Byleth were siblings. Ashe concluded the tale by explaining that it was N's adopted father that was the one that likely caused him great pain.
"All this time, N was an orphan," Dimitri said.
"I feel bad that the man that took him in turned out to be such a monster," Hilda added.
"Did N ever mention a name?" Hapi asked.
Ashe shook his head. "He was always careful to not say his name. He was too afraid to say it."
With that, something clicked in Byelth's mind. When N had collapsed, he kept repeating a name. When he woke up, when Byleth mentioned the name, N froze in fear. With Ashe's story and what she knew, things were beginning to add up.
"Ghetsis," Byleth muttered.
She said it quietly, but Rhea managed to catch it. Rhea's blood froze. Somehow Byleth knew about that man, about her brother. She likely made the connection between him and N.
"What did you say, Teach?" Claude asked.
"When N collapsed he kept repeating a name: Ghetsis."
Everyone looked confused. However, Edelgard's eyes slowly widened. She managed to contain her shock, but she never would have anticipated that N was acquainted with him.
"I've never heard of such a name," Dimitri said.
"I have."
All eyes turned to Linhardt. Edelgard was glaring daggers at him, but if he noticed she did not know.
"You have?" Yuri asked.
Linhardt nodded. "He's an advisor to the Emperor back in Enbarr. I've never really met him, but Edelgard must've."
Edelgard cleared her throat. Part of it was to calm her nerves, the other was to collect her thoughts.
"I have met him. He's almost like an uncle to me. He's been serving my father for a long time," Edelgard explained.
"Has he ever mentioned any children he may have adopted?" Byleth asked
Edelgard shook her head. "If he has, he has never mentioned it to me. Though he never struck as the type to have a family. He mostly keeps to himself. However, he's always been courteous to me and many others. I doubt he could be one to instill so much fear in someone."
"Whenever you see him again, please ask him if he knows N," Byleth pleaded.
"I'll certainly try," Edelgard said.
"That's all I ask."
There was silence following their exchange. Everyone looked between each other awkwardly, trying to figure out what to do next.
"How about we rest up and meet back up later. After everything that's happened, a break is in order," Rhea announced.
"Y-Yeah, I agree with the Archbishop," Yuri said. "We'll keep an eye on N."
"I'd rather stay with him," Byleth replied.
Yuri nodded sympathetically. "Okay."
"Thank you, Yuri."
"The rest of us will return topside. Make sure to let us know when N wakes up," Claude said.
Byleth nodded in response.
The group from the surface began to make their way back up. While doing so, Rhea kept he gaze firmly on Edelgard. She knew Ghetsis had a presence in Adrestian politics, but one where he was so close to the future ruler greatly concerned her. She would have to keep an eye on her for the time being.
—-
Byleth sat in the dormitory, right next to N. She carefully watched as he chest rose and fell. His breathing had also returned to normal. Zorua had since curled up next to his partner, not wanting to leave his side. Byleth smiled seeing the two together. She knew that without Zorua by his side, N would likely never recover.
Her smile faltered a bit at the thought. She had long thought that she could be the one to fill that gap for him, just as he was for her, but she knew that would never be. N's heart would always belong to the creatures.
"My, you almost sound lovesick."
Byelth sighed and turned to where the voice came from. Sothis floated next to her, but quickly moved to inspect N.
"I'm not. I'm just being realistic. N has always been more fond of creatures than humans," Byleth said.
Sothis rolled her eyes. "I'll never fully understand the human concept of love, but I think I understand. He's almost like a sibling to you."
Byleth pondered that for a moment. She had never really thought about her relationship with him in that way. She always considered him her best friend. However, a part of her knew there was more to it than that.
"He's my friend, but there is a feeling I cannot fully explain," Byleth said.
"Then, pray tell, when will you realize the kind of bond you two share?" Sothis asked.
"I'm not sure. However, I'm content with the way things are right now," Byleth replied.
Sothis hummed a response. She was about to say something when a knock came to the door. Byelth shifted her gaze to the door and back to Sothis, but the green haired girl had vanished.
At least I'm getting used to her popping up, Byleth thought.
When she opened the door, she was surprised to see Hapi in front of it.
"Can I see him?"
Byleth smiled slightly and nodded. She opened the door wider and let the Ashen Absol in, with her Misdreavus floating behind her. Byleth noticed how her strides appeared to be longer in order to get by his side quicker.
Hapi knelt down by the bed and kept her gaze firmly on N.
"How is he?"
"Better. He's no longer dreaming," Byleth replied.
"More like not having nightmares," Hapi countered.
Byleth chuckled. "Perhaps."
The two sat in silence, but kept their attention square on N. For some reason, Byleth felt better now that there was someone else with her. She knew Hapi had grown fond of N. She often noticed how Hapi would be by his side whenever he helped healing everyone's partners.
"Do you like him?" Byleth asked.
Hapi caught her breath and her face began to heat up. She turned away from Byleth hoping she would not notice her flustered expression.
"W-Well yeah. He's really helped us out down here," Hapi answered.
"Okay, but I did not mean it in that sense. Not that I know much about being attracted to someone," Byleth said.
"I-I'm not sure. Sure, whenever I'm around him I feel comfortable. He and I both have a fondness for the creatures, but I'm not sure if I feel that way toward him," Hapi explained.
"It sounds like you have some kind of feelings for him," Byleth said.
"Like I said, I don't know what these feelings are yet. All I know is that ever since I've known N, life down here hasn't been as bad," Hapi countered.
"Uh-huh."
The two returned to silence. Byleth kept he focus on N, but would catch Hapi staring at him too. Hapi would mutter things every so often, and Byleth figured that it was something only meant for N.
"All I'll say is that he did look happy whenever you were by his side."
Hapi turned away again. The heat now grew all over her face, but she still smiled happily.
—
Ghetsis stood before a wall of snow and wind. It was still summer and yet a blizzard blew in front of him. He had finally reached his destination. Just beyond the blizzard was his prize. Everything would soon be in the palm of his hand.
He turned away from the wall of snow and walked back to his tent. There was still one piece missing, and he trusted Kage to acquire it. However, without it, he would not dare enter the blizzard. Colress had spent months within it charting a path and if he entered without the splicers then his plans would slow down.
When he opened the flap to his tent, he saw Kage kneeling in front of him. Ghetsis smiled, he knew Kage would not dare return empty handed.
"Was your mission a success?"
Kage held out something wrapped in a cloth. "Of course, Master."
Ghetsis's smile widened. He reached out and grabbed the splicers. He unwrapped the cloth and found the object he sought for so long.
"Well done. I trust there were no complications," Ghetsis said as he walked around Kage.
"None, Master."
Ghetsis's smile fell instantly. He turned to Kage, who had not moved from he kneeling position.
"I can practically hear the hesitation."
Kage released a quiet breath. "I was not the only one after the DNA Splicers."
"Oh? Who else would be interested in them?"
"Archbishop Rhea, Master. She sent students from the Officer's Academy to find them," Kage reported.
"I already knew of that, Kage."
"Of course, Master."
"Something unforeseen happened, yes?"
Kage nodded. "Guarding the DNA Splicers were the three legendary golems: Regirock, Registeel, and Regice."
Ghetsis's eye widened slightly. "I knew they'd be protected, but not by those three."
"They will most likely hunt you down to retrieve the splicers."
"It matters not. We'll deal with them when they come." Ghetsis sat at his portable desk and studied the splicers. "Anything else?"
Kage hesitated for a moment. His confrontation with N was something he was not sure he should mention. There was also Mewtwo, but that did not seem like a pressing concern.
"I observed N. He was part of the group from the Officer's Academy," Kage said.
"Is that so? And how is he?"
"Still unaware of his importance to you. He seemed particularly close with the Adrestian Princess," Kage said.
Ghetsis's attention shifted from the splicer back to Kage. "How interesting. I had not told her to do so or said anything about him. She's becoming quite proactive."
"Shall I continue my operations in the monastery, Master?" Kage asked.
"No, your job is done. Soon Zinzolin's part will come and Lysandre is getting everything ready back at Enbarr. Remain here with me."
Kage nodded. "Of course, Master."
"Tell the men to prepare to head into the blizzard. We set out at first light tomorrow," Ghetsis ordered.
Kage nodded and vanished in a cold gust of wind.
Ghetsis took one last look at the DNA Splicers. Everything was ready. Soon he would realize his own goal and crush the world his sister created. After all, it was only logical that the strong should trample over the weak.
—-
Anthea! Concordia! Come look!
N slowly opened his eyes. He had been dreaming about his siblings again.
As he opened his eyes, they took time to adjust. Everything looked a bit foggy. The ceiling look unfamiliar and a lot closer to his face. He looked down to see that he was in a bed as sheets were haphazardly over him. He turned his head to see someone resting against the edge of the bed. With his blurred vision, he could not make out the color of the hair, but he knew they were familiar.
"Anthea?" N said quietly.
The person stirred and rubbed their eyes. They turned to N and let out a surprised gasp.
"You're awake!"
N recognized the voice instantly. "Hapi?"
N began to sit up, trying to get a better view of the girl. His eyes were clearing up and he wanted to make sure it was the right person he was talking to.
Suddenly, a pair of arms were wrapped around him. He realized it was Hapi and slowly embraced her as well.
"Thank the Goddess you're awake. I-we were all so worried."
The two separated and N's vision had significantly cleared up. He managed to catch a tinge of red on Hapi's dark complexion. She quickly turned away before he could ask anything about.
However, Hapi was not the only person with him. Sitting in a chair was Byleth. She quickly surged to her feet and hugged him as well.
"Please don't scare me like that."
N was surprised to hear that Byleth was scared, but understood what she meant. He could vaguely recall what had happened in the mausoleum, so she had every right to be scared for him. He was just happy that she shared it with him.
"I'm sorry."
"You have nothing to be sorry for, N. I'm just happy you're still with us," Byleth replied.
The separated by way of Zorua wanting to be by his partner's side. N chuckled lightly as he pet the fox. He could tell Zorua had been worried about him as well. He also remembered the dream he had. Seeing Anthea, Concordia, and Zorua all together felt like a lifetime ago. He smiled and pet the fox behind his ears.
"You really had us worried there, you know," Hapi said.
"I'm sure. Sorry about being a burden," N replied.
"Your past isn't a burden, N," Byleth said.
N gave a sad smile. "How I wish that were true."
Before the two girls could respond, the doors to the room slammed open. Standing in the doorway was Balthus, with everyone else behind him.
"Well, he's finally awake!" Balthus bellowed.
N chuckled and moved to sit on the edge of the bed.
"If I wasn't before, sure am now," N said.
Balthus let out a hearty laugh. "Well now, glad to see you're still you."
"If you keep bellowing like that, Balthus, you'll wake up everyone in Abyss," Yuri said as he walked past the large man.
The rest of the group followed the leader of the Ashen Absols. All of them said some form of them being happy N was feeling better, while making sure not to mention Kage or what had happened. While N appreciated the gesture, he could tell it was difficult for them to remain vague.
"How about we give him the good news, Yuri," Constance said.
N looked between all the Ashen Absols. "Good news?"
Yuri nodded. "We're getting pardoned for what happened, on the condition we help in the search for Aelfric. Abyss is no longer in danger from the surface."
N smiled. "That's great! I'm happy for all of you."
"But that's not all," Hapi said, "we're also allowed to partake in Officer's Academy activities."
"Like what?" N asked.
"You'll be seeing us around, don't worry," Yuri replied.
"Well, you're welcome to drop by my class any time," N said.
"You bet I will! There's bound to be some strong people taking your class," Balthus said as he slammed a closed fist into his palm. His Grapploct growled in agreement.
"I'm sure everyone else will be more than happy to meet you all," Dimitri said.
"For sure! It'll make academy life all the more fun," Claude added.
"Thanks for all the help, I mean it," Yuri said.
"You asked for help and we obliged. There's nothing more to it," Edelgard said.
"Yes, but you had not real obligation to help," Constance replied.
"I don't think that matters. You asked for our help, none of us were going to turn you down," Ashe added.
"Everyone here was willing to help. While we may not have achieved everything we set out to do, at least one good thing did come form it; we protected Abyss," Byleth said.
N nodded in agreement. "She's right. Despite everything, what happened here will certainly help us in the future."
"Mewtwo's warning…" Linhardt said.
"Let's not dwell on that for now. However, let's keep that in the back of our minds," N cautioned.
Everyone nodded in agreement.
"We all made it out in one piece, that's cause enough to be happy," Yuri said.
"What's next for you guys?" N asked.
"We'll be helping in the search for Aelfric, but besides that…" Hapi looked between all the Ashen Absols. "Not sure yet."
"I understand. Just know you got friends and allies with each person here," N replied gesturing to the group from the Officer's Academy.
"Thanks, N. It's nice to know we can trust you guys," Hapi said.
N chuckled. "Could never find a nickname for me, could you?"
Hapi smiled. "Unfortunately, no."
Everyone looked between the two. Some chuckled knowingly, while others looked a bit confused. However, for Edelgard, that same feeling when she last saw the two talking returned.
Everyone said their final goodbyes and those form the Officer's Academy returned to the surface. After being underground for almost a week, having the sun shine down on them when it was not late evening.
N took in a deep breath of monastery air. An air he had finally grown accustomed to. What had happened before was still weighing on him. While he had told everyone to put Mewtwo's warning in the back of their minds, it was at the forefront of his. Along with Kage's appearance, he knew he was involved. The question that remained to be answered was what his plan was and who else was involved.
N turned his gaze to the tall spire that Rhea had once peered down from. She was up there again, staring down as the group exited Abyss. N could not make out her expression, but he could guess she was smiling. N sent a short wave and turned his attention forward. He still had classes to teach and lessons to prepare.
AN: With that the Cindered Shadows arc ends. Man was this arc long. Sorry for taking so long on finishing it, but I hope all the waiting was worth it.
Now to address somethings with this chapter. First, Mewtwo. When conceptualizing this arc I had to find a way to replace the beast that is fought at the end of Cindered Shadows. I decided on it being Mewtwo since that is an artificially created Pokémon using DNA from Mew. Since the Splicers purpose in the games is just for fusing Kyurem, I decided to expand their application for this story. Hence, the use of Mewtwo. I thought about using Deoxys instead since it is classified as the DNA Pokémon, but in the end Mewtwo worked better for the story. Along with Mewtwo is the introduction of the word Pokémon. I decided as I was writing this chapter that Mewtwo would reveal the true name of the creatures. Granted it won't take off automatically, but I wanted to introduce the phrase. I know I said that the name Pokémon would never be uttered, but as I have been writing this I've had a change of heart. It feels strange to not call them Pokémon so I decided to introduce the phrase. Also Legens Arcues has changed my perception of how Pokémon are named in-universe.
Following that is N's rage scene. That scene has been a part of the arc since the story's inception. With that moment N is now more aware that things are happening, plus it means he can no longer run away from his past. Plus it shows Edelgard that N and Ghetsis have a connection, something she was not aware of. How their relationship will progress will be shown in the future. Speaking of relationships, there has been a bit of change in the support chart I made for N. At first I had N only have up to A with Hapi, and that was because at the time I didn't know much about her character. After learning more about her I've decided to go up on rank and give them S (a lot of the choices were arbitrary and mostly on which characters I like the most). So I decided to have them interact a bit more and even hint that there is something more going on.
Finally, there is Mega Absol. A quick disclaimer, I did not know Yuri got a relic weapon. I found that out after I planned out this chapter. As per this story's lore, the relic weapons is what grants the ability to Mega Evolve and Dynamax. But because I wanted Yuri to use Mega Absol in the fight against Mewtwo, I gave him a Mega Stone. He will be the only one able to preform Mega Evolution like this. To keep things consistent, the relic weapon rule will remain.
With all that out of the way, I hope you enjoyed this chapter and the arc as a whole. I got some cool things planned for the upcoming story mission so I hope you look forward to it. If you're enjoying this story feel free to follow, favorite, and/or review.