The morning rays of a new dawn were still fresh, just as fresh as the dew was that lingered on the blades of grass. It would be hours still for it to dry, but until then, the signal for the people and the new habitants of the world was as clear as crystal. The sun's radiance casted onto Fiore, specifically a window that was misted over from the condensation of inside.

Inside the window of the small abode, the shower was running, and clothes were neatly folded on the porcelain sink counter. The running water continued its toils and misting up the room with humidity to make a normal person sweat. Hell, to make even a Magmar sweat. Too bad Magmar don't appreciate water much.

A slender hand reached for the faucet and turned the nozzle, making the water stop. The person inside had great skin, so slender in fact that the water ran down her body neatly. The figure's hand reached for the nearest towel hanging from a hook beside the shower and was wrapped around a naked chest and hips. The curtains slid to the side, revealing a voluptuous young woman with her raven hair flowing down her back. Normally it would be in braids and tied at the corners as buns, but she didn't get to that yet. Her narrow yet soft eyes looked at the still misted mirror, cascading her full appearance. She used a handcloth to wipe a full circle's worth of condensation away so she could see her face.

It was Minerva, and her day was to start just after the shower.

Already having done some of her early morning training with her Bagon, she opt to take a nice shower to cleanse herself. She took a good look in the mirror and saw her dazzling reflection. Normally she wasn't so high strung with her sex appeal, but why not? She was in a good mood today.

After a minute of self-drying, she sighed. "Suppose I shouldn't linger very long." she mused, lifting a leg onto a stool so as to dry her left calf. "Less I end up getting prunes prematurely."

It didn't take long for her dry the rest of herself off. She was soon dressing herself in her usual attire. It was a revealing black dress with yellow trimmings. There were no sleeves, but two pairs of sleeves detached and covered the majority of her arms. She also wore long black stocking boots that hugged her thick thighs to where any man with a thigh or leg fetish wouldn't resist looking at them.

Speaking of man, as Minerva looked at herself in the mirror, a rogue thought entered her mind as she was about to style her hair. As she was doing the bun on her right side, she was looking so deep in the mirror she lost herself to her reflection. She actually saw herself in a black wedding dress again.

"In that future, would you be able to find love? Have you ever imagined yourself with somebody?"

Hoshina's question echoed in the back of her skull so often that it was an echo that was on loop. It wasn't often that Minerva thought back to past enemies after she defeats them. Most of the time they don't even make an appeal to her at all. But there were certain exceptions, and that included what Hoshina said to her about levity.

As she moved to the next bun, her focus was a little off as she was scrunching her face. This one thought she has – that one thing that Minerva has been bugged about, and she can't swat it off. Too tired to fight it, she resumed her buns and did the bottoms in braids.

'Hopefully these will make me feel better.' A chirpy thought indeed. Something to give her some attractions, if a male was into that too.

Once her hair was done she inspected herself one more time. She was looking mighty fine, at least that's what many admirers would say. But Minerva wouldn't have paid attention, at least until a few weeks ago. Maybe it was time to make a change to that. She looked herself in the mirror and made sure her bangs were neat for today. The strongest woman of Sabertooth has to have some measure of beauty to her.

'I suppose this will suffice, too. Been a while…but why not?' She puckered her lips and leaned into the mirror. She watched herself carefully as she applied thick, black lipstick that made her lips outline glisten with a sexy tint to it. She ought to be ashamed of herself for taking so long over her apparel, but she couldn't help it.

The door soon opened, a relieved sigh washing over her. 'Why am I so worked up over my appearance today? It's not like I have a date.' She laughed mockingly to herself for that. 'Oh well, let's see.'

She put two fingers into her mouth and blew out a whistle. "Bagon, come!"

In a rush from down the stairs, her Pokémon beckoned to her call. "Yes?" he squealed.

Minerva gave him a dominant smirk. "Are you ready for today?"

Bagon leniently nodded. "Ready when you are."

"Good." She patted his hard head, returning him to his Poke Ball. She straightened her back and marched out her doors towards her guild.


As Minerva walked through town, she took a little time to get acquainted with her surroundings. She admired the morning sun warming up the stands where sunflowers were growing. And since it was summer, that means they were growing healthy. She almost thought one of those sunflowers had a face. Maybe she was still seeing things.

Dismissing her delirium, she walked pass the market zone of town and obliged to meeting eyes with the vendors and people there. She was a very well-respected female indeed, and en envied one at that. She could've used her magic to just go to the guild in a snap of a finger, but she was feeling nonchalant. No sense in wasting power for something trivial. Yet as she walked, she was getting small mumbles behind her back. It didn't escape her ears either that there were small bluffs about her beauty, and that half of the comments were from older to men her age. It didn't matter too much, but she moved her right braid back to add subtlety to her appearance. It worked its charms and flaunted her confidence.

But no matter. She wasn't interested. They didn't stand out like she wanted. Instead, she found herself walking into a large building in the middle of town, with a massive Sabertooth statue at the top of it looking down at anyone at the entrance with an intimidating stature.

It was her guild alright, Sabertooth.

With even remotely fazed she walked right in, and immediately she was met with the sight of her guildmates and a few Pokémon scattered about. Some were sleeping. Some were fighting. But nothing out of the ordinary.

Orga was at a table minding his business when his Pikachu's ear twitched into his shoulder. The ticklish sensation made him stir. "Huh? What do you want?" He noticed where Pikachu was pointing and he followed. Instantly he recoiled from shock. "Oh, uh, Milady…morning."

"Salutations, Orga." She greeted back. She looked over at the other table's end, which held Dobengal and his Pokémon, which was Frogadier. "Is there something the matter?"

Orga turned towards Dobengal, scoffing. "Yeah. Can you tell this guy that my Pikachu could wipe the floor with his frog?" he pointed a thumb over to Frogadier. He didn't seem phased by the blank eyes he had.

Dobengal sighed. "All I was implying is that with my Smokescreen, your Pikachu would be at a disadvantage." He reasoned. "A ninja's art is through deception."

Orga rested his elbow against the table, his cheek against it. "Ha. That's not what happened the last time we fought. I remember a Thunderbolt that fried your rainforest ninja couldn't handle."

The insult was brushed by Dobengal crossing his arms. "That's because we were unaware that Lick with paralysis would have no affect on Electric-types. Had no been for the shortcomings of and Paralyze Heal, we would've won the match."

"Yeah, yeah. Well feel free to check with me again and see where that goes."

Minerva rolled her eyes and walked away from their conversation, if one could even call it that. She moved along towards Rogue, whose Duskull was floating over his head. "Hello, Rogue."

Rogue looked over his shoulder, Frosch in hand. "Good morning, Milady." He greeted.

"Fro thinks so, too." Frosch cheered.

Minerva heard the sounds of footsteps behind her. She turned to see another familiar face after so long. "Hello there, Yukino."

Yukino smiled proudly at her guildmate. "Minerva, hey. It's so good to see you. It feels so long."

"I can most certainly vouch." She chuckled. "Heard your expedition on Princess Hisui's behalf went well."

Yukino sheepishly rubbed the back of her head. It's only been a few days after her return and it's been hectic to say the least. She was still rather sore to go into detail. "Uh, yeah…you could say that." She nervously chuckled. "It was…a long few days in Seven."

"I heard the Seven authorities are looking to appease a treaty with what you and Fairy Tail have accomplished." Minerva chose to change the subject. "Things are looking to change around here."

Yukino nervously scratched her cheek. "Um, yeah…you see, about changes-" She was butted in when an arm draped around her neck. She almost lost balance if it wasn't for the unintended support that was another white-haired mage who started holding her.

"Oh, there you are, Yukino!" Sorano cheered verbosely. "There's my adorable sweet sister."

"Um…yeah, that." Yukino finished, nervously trying to stay calm in the sheer embarrassment her sister was afflicting. She knew she was being protective, but she couldn't bring herself to stay away. She just stayed accustomed to the position as she faced Minerva. "Um, Minerva, I'm sure you remember Sorano, right…?"

Minerva glanced at Sorano. "Yes, I believe we've gotten…acquainted the last coupe times we've crossed paths." She faced Yukino. "So she's our newest guild member then?"

Sorano playfully winked as she gave a thumbs up. "You bet! And guess what, did you guys know that you have a pool? You guys are so amazing, I can see why my lil' sis chose you guys!"

"P-please sis…everyone's staring." Yukino whispered. She tried to find some kind of a distraction, but found something else amiss. "Hey, has anybody seen Rufus around?"

Minerva raised a brow. She took note of what Yukino said and realized she was right. If she remembered right he would be sitting with Orga drinking his morning tea.

"He went on an important errand this morning."

Their attention went towards three figures that were walking up the purple carpet towards them. It was Sting, with Lector close behind. And not much farther, Sting's Druddigon.

"Oh, Master Sting. Good morning." Yukino greeted. She was thankful when Sorano was able to loosen her grip to allow measurements of space.

Sting waved back to her. "Morning, guys." He greeted, putting that same hand to his hip. "Yeah, but like I was saying, Rufus had to run an errand today. Odds are he won't be back till later."

"You just missed him, too." Lector pointed out. He was perched on Druddigon's head like a monument, not that it seemed to bother Druddigon too much due to Rough Skin. "Anyways Sting, what did you wanna say?"

"Oh yeah, that'd right." He affirmed himself strictly to Minerva's position. "Milady, can I ask you a quick favor?"

Minerva nonchalantly raised a brow. "Yes? Is it something you need?"

"It's not a big deal, but can you run to the market soon and buy some chlorine." He held up a large sack of Jewel and passed it to her. "That should be enough to cover it."

Minerva looked down at the large sum in her hands. She almost floored at how it cost for chlorine, he wanted her to do it? Then again, with her Territory, it makes sense. "And that's it, I suppose?" she asked.

Sting nodded. "Yeah. After that, you can do as you please. Sorano's new Mantine is hogging up the pool and we gotta keep it clean."

Hearing the commentary, Sorano puffed her cheeks. "It's not my fault she has a big body!"

For some reason, that comment made Minerva want to gag. The body. Once again she felt an uncomfortable feeling crawl atop her skin when she thought about Hoshina's faux prediction. She had a luscious body, maybe not as curvaceous as Erza, or bottom heavy like Vanessa…Yukino and Lucy had good frames too…

Shaking her head to get her womanly insecurities out if her head, Minerva hastily took the sack. "It'd be my pleasure. Now, if you'll excuse me." In haste she suddenly vanished, much to Sting's surprise.

"Huh, that was quick."

"Wonder what's her deal?" Lector pondered. He looked down at Druddigon for answers but all he did was shrug. "Yeah, I feel ya. Humans can be fickle."

Reappearing outside the guild hall, Minerva took a long sigh of relief. 'Honestly, what's wrong with me?' She wondered tiredly. 'Like I need a man right now. I'm perfectly fine as I am.'

Trying to work her worries off, she walked into town. As she went into strides, she was minding her own business when she was looking around. She tried to find a suitable place where she could find chlorine for the pool. 'Let's see, I'm sure there was something up here when I came by. Where's-'

She was cut off from her thoughts when someone brushed into her. She stepped back in slight surprise.

"Woah there. My bad." The individual said. Minerva turned around to see the culprit. He was a man around her age, maybe just a little less. He had medium-length black hair that had a blue streak across the right eye, similar to Vanessa. He had a blue and white jacket that was halfway zipped up over a red t-shirt, with jeans and red sneakers to accompany the ensemble.

Minerva took the time to notice what bumped into her. It looked like a guitar case.

"You okay?" He looked at Minerva, his blue eyes reminiscent of the shallow coastal oceans.

Minerva brought herself out of her daze and cleared her throat. "No, it's quite alright. Apologies are accepted." She smiled. "By any chance, can you help me with something? It won't take long, just a simple question."

The man blinked in confusion. "Um…sure, I guess?"

"Are you familiar with this market? I've been looking for pool chlorine. You know where they might have put it?"

The person looked over towards east, Minerva following his gaze. "I think they moved the stand towards the next street over. I saw it right by the hardware store as I came around here."

Minerva nodded. "Thank you very much. Sorry to have disturbed you." Without even a snap of her fingers, her Territory moved her around, much to his shock.

'Woah, talk about quick.' He thought. 'And here I thought Elgyem teleported fast.'

As he continued his way without anymore interruptions, he was oblivious to the alleys of the street. There were three cloaked figures who observed carefully, but they weren't interested in him.

"Hey, guys, did you see that?" The shortest cloaked guy said. "She just teleported."

One of the broader figures chuckled. "You fellas thinking what I'm thinking?"

"Heh, yeah. Spatial Magic. Good thing we came prepared, right boss?" The two figures turned to the one in the middle. Between the short and the broad, he was the tallest and slimmest of the pair.

His answer came in the form of two fingerless gloved hands reaching for their heads, colliding them like two rocks that fell in front of him.

"Owww…" they grimaced.

"Quiet, both of you." He sneered. "I need to think." He thought back to that teleportation. That woman specifically. 'Yeah, no doubt about it. She's the one.'


While Minerva was doing her grocery duties, the person she bumped into continued his way back to his home. He stood in front of an apartment complex with a small roof over the white door. He reached into his pocket and pulled out the key to unlock it. Once inside, he shut the door behind and looked at the studio apartment he had. It was small, but he didn't mind. He went up to his desk, where there, he had lacrima connected to a set of boombox and what appeared to be a human laptop.

He opened his briefcase, which housed his rock guitar. He hoisted it up and put the straps in to hold onto him. He found an auxiliary chord and plugged one end into the guitar and another into the laptop.

He sighed and sat back in his chair. "Okay…from the top."


While things were bustling in the cities, things were much different in the Eastern Forest of Magnolia. The wild Pokémon there were either comfortably resting in their accustomed habitats, running about with mates, or some were just looking for food. While they were tending to their own wonders, a familiar stump with windows and a door was filled with anxiety.

Sophie sat on a small chair looking down at her twiddling fingers. She looked nervous if her big pink lips were any indication. She's been waiting for results for over ten minutes, and Kadabra's company beside her was somewhat reassuring, it didn't do too much.

Vanessa stood patiently by her, resting against the inside of the stump. "Miss Porlyusica, anything so far?"

A Morelull was providing some light with its luminescent mushrooms for Porlyusica as she was looking over the contexts. After a long read in the textbook, she closed it shut. She stood up and faced the two girls with a frown.

"I'm sorry. I've done everything I've could." She frowned. "Whatever magic has taken your friend's memories stripped them away entirely. There's no way to reverse it."

Vanessa looked down, grimacing. "I see."

She turned towards Sophie. "And none of those potions and herbs had any affect it seems. I've used every mixture of ingredients I know to try and make her go through loop. But if she's drawing blanks, her body is probably relying on subconscious muscle memory. That's the only diagnosis I can give."

Sophie blinked in confusion. "I'm…not following."

"She's saying that your past actions like your morning routine are all based on muscle memory." Kadabra interpreted. "In shorter words, your déjà vu was something you must've done."

Sophie was able to understand that. Still, it didn't make her feel any better. "So then, that's all that can be done right now?"

Porlyusica lowered her head. "I'm afraid so." She walked over towards the crestfallen Sophie, gently outing a hand on her shoulder. "Listen, child, you may have lost your memories. At the very least, try not to stress too much about it. It might only make things worse. For now, the best course of action is rest, do you understand?"

Sophie meekly nodded. "Yes, ma'am." She was then handed a small bag of herbs.

"Boil those in warm water, and stir them well. That's three days' worth of herbs that should keep you calm. Drink no more than twice a day." She turned back towards her desk. "Now then, get out."

Sophie blinked. "Um, excuse me?"

Vanessa walked over, tapping her shoulder. "Just do as she says, Sophie. She's not fond of long stays."

Sophie awkwardly followed her roommate and Kadabra out. "O-okay, if you say so."

The door shut behind Porlyusica, leaving her and the one Morelull alone inside the stump. The little mushroom looked towards the hermit and hopped closer for her light to catch a glimpse of her saddened face. She grievously sighed out her exasperation, hoping it would alleviate her failures.

"I swear, Makarov, your children are just as full of problems as you were…"

Walking through the forest, Vanessa kept her gaze fixed ahead. "Sophie, were you sure about this? I told you when we knew someone who might help, I didn't mean it so that it would…"

"It's okay, Vanessa." Sophie's voice cracked. "It's fine…really. At least she tried."

Vanessa nor Kadabra didn't buy her security for even a second. They could tell she was more deterred than ever. They tried going to Mest to see if he could do anything to help, but he made it clear that replacing memories with fake ones over a long period like she's endured would be far too dangerous. Too much psychological damage could lead her to a wrong path. Though he did offer hos condolences on Sophie. If neither Mest nor Porlyusica could help, even Nic's Mind Form wouldn't be of help. It'd be just like Mest. Nic made that clear.

Vanessa sighed to herself. Suppose this was for the best. She tried to give Sophie some levity, but all she did was stress her out. Her aura could feel a riling blue mess inside her amnesiac of a friend. She wanted to say something apologetic, but knew better than to add insult to injury.

"So Sophie…" Vanessa started.

The blonde perked up. "Yes?"

"What do you think of the guild so far? I know it's a rough question since you aren't familiar with anyone, but…"

Sophie looked down, pondering her question for a second. She almost tripped over a root. She walked upright and looked at the dirt path they took. "Well…" she put a hand to her chin, trying to bring up her experience for the last few days. "Let's see…well, I suppose I should be grateful for all the trouble you're going through to help me with my memories."

Vanessa glanced back. "Anything else?"

Sophie squinted her eyes, thinking a little harder. "Hmmm…well, for one thing. You're a very loud bunch, and that makes it hard to find peace. I get headaches just being there." Vanessa frowned. She wanted to reply it was never a dull moment, but Sophie lightened up. "But, you're not all bad people, and you meant well when you took me in. I'm sure I must be overthinking it some, right?"

Vanessa shook her head. "No not at all. Sorry about that question." She turned forward, meekly chuckling. "You must be tired. Why don't we go to my brother's to see if we can have lunch?"

"Your brother?" Sophie was surprised by this. "I wasn't aware that you had other siblings."

Vanessa smiled. "You don't see him around the guild that often these days…he likes his peace."

Sophie giggled. "I suppose that's fair." When she took another step, she suddenly was halted by a telekinetic force. "What the-?!"

"Miss Sophie, watch yourself!" Kadabra testified. He was using Confusion to hold her back while a jet of bubbles rushed passed her. "Are you alright?"

Catching up from that scare, Sophie took a nervous step back after the telekinetic force subsided. "Y-yes, I thinks so. Thanks…um…"

"Kadabra."

"Yes, Kadabra." she closed her eyes, her brow furrowing. 'I'll have to memorize that.'

Trying to figure out where that jet of bubbles came from, Vanessa looked where the attack came from. She saw two Pokémon battling, but more importantly, who was behind them. Her eyes widened. "Is that…?"

A metallic slash pierced the ground than made impact with a Darumaka. The red creature chirped excitedly as he found an opening to launch head-first into the taller penguin, who used those same metallic claws and crossed them to bounce back the hard head. They both ended up repelled due to the flaws of force and glared the other down.

"C'mon, Prinplup." The brunette behind him held her flask up. She didn't look as serious as her partner was as she drank from a flask of alcohol. "You said you wanted to get stronger, right? Put some more leg into it, would ya?"

Scoffing, Prinplup's eyes gleamed sunrays. Feeling threatened, he raised his beak into the air, summoning a blast of water that sprinkled across the area. The ground and grass around them dampened, as did Darumaka.

"Let's see how you like my Water Sport." Prinplup challenged. His beak glowed and sharpened, allowing him to dart ahead like a torpedo.

"Oh boy! Now this is fun!" Darumaka balled his fist and reeled it back. He started surrounding flames, but they weren't nearly strong enough. As he strained, Prinplup's beak pierced his chest, sending him skidding across the marsh.

"Aw c'mon Darumaka, what're you doing?" Natsu shouted. "C'mon, I know you got some fight in ya! Go get'em!"

As they were busy doing battle, others were occupied outside the safe zone. As Prinplup and Darumaka were going at it, Happy squirmed besides Liepard, who sat in the grass lazily and watched the training go on. For all she cared, she didn't realize the infatuated cat eyeballing her the last half hour.

"So, um…" Happy reached back and pulled out a fish. His paws shook as his heart raced. "D-do you…like fish?" he quipped. "E-everybody loves fish. R-right?"

Liepard took one look at Happy, just now realizing his presence. The moment she turned, Happy's heart-shaped eyes lit up as he saw Liepard's green eyes. He dropped the fish accidentally. "Aw crap! I'm so sorry! Here, I'll fix it!" He tried wiping the grass off the slimy seafood, but he only made it smear grass stains on it. "C'mon! C'mon!"

"Um…okay?" Raising a brow, Liepard slowly levered back into her lazy position. She resumed watching as Happy sulked at the degraded Casanova he was.

Vanessa blinked in genuine shock. "Cana? Natsu?"

Taking a moment's notice of the familiar tone, Cana turned around to catch a glimpse of her two friends. "Eh? Well I'll be damned." She swayed over to them. "If I ain't my two favorite girls. What are you guys doing here?" she chimed whimsically.

Vanessa calmly chose to answer in their stead. "Good morning, Cana. We were coming back from our appointment with Porlyusica. We're heading back right now."

Cana eyes rolled over to Sophie. "I see. How've you been, girl?" she cooed lightly. "You look like a train just rolled over ya."

Sophie mustered up a grin. "Uh, Cana…was it?" She an affirmative nod from Kadabra, she pressed on. "I'm well, thanks for your concerns."

"Good." She pointed a thumb towards Vanessa as she winked. "Because this girl's a real handful, I tell ya. I would've thought she'd been giving ya a hard time." She earned a raised brow from the Aura Mage. "Aw, don't be like that Vanessa, you know I'm just teasing. You're a big heart." She suddenly reached down and smacked Vanessa's behind, which echoed from the meat it had. "Among other things." Cana laughed. "Man, your badonkadonk got way more kick to it than I thought!"

A nervous tension rose between Sophie and Kadabra as they watched Cana laugh off her playfulness. Sophie took a step away as Vanessa kept a calm gaze as her aura manifested around her flask. It lifted above Cana's head out of reach. She tried desperately to jump for it, but to no avail.

"Hey girl, I was just messing with ya! Can't you take a joke?! This ain't funny!" Vanessa rolled her eyes and allowed the flask to drop in Cana's hand. "Man, you really are a buzzkill, you know that? I swear, you and your brother are almost alike that it's creepy."

Vanessa cleared her throat, trying to change the subject. "And what are you doing out here, Cana? It's not often we see you outside the guild hall."

Cana raised a brow, looking back at Natsu. "What's it look like?" She watched Prinplup dodge Darumaka's head, which slid across the wet grass. Prinplup landed behind, watching Darumaka dart back in a hurry but sidestepped. "We're training."

"Well, this a first." Kadabra nonchalantly stated.

Cana smirked. "It wasn't my idea. Prinplup felt pretty sore losing to Loke. He's been nagging about training so much that I had to ask someone to help with."

Vanessa nodded in understanding. "I can understand that, but Cana…" she looked over towards Natsu, who looked eager. "You sure Natsu's the best choice for a sparring partner?"

Cana shrugged. "You tell me. The moment he heard Prinplup screaming for training, he just ran up to me."

Vanessa sighed. 'Yes, I suppose that is Natsu.' She then noticed something else. "Natsu, is Lucy not with you guys?"

Natsu shook his head. "Not this time. She said she wanted to stay home and rest up. Said something about a breakthrough with her novel, or something?"

"Plus you remember that Spirit fiasco." Happy raised a paw, interjecting briefly. "She put her spirits on vacation so she can be sure she's ready to fight again."

"So while she's doing that, we can get stronger." Natsu eagerly grinned, cracking his knuckles. "And I got some steam still after what that fat thing did to Darumaka and Tyrunt. It's time to step it up." His Darumaka jumped in place, a surprisingly serious expression on his face. "Hey, Cana! Your move!"

"Alright, alright." She turned around, focusing on the battle. "Well you kids run along and have fun. I'll let you know when Prinplup's feeling vented."

Vanessa nodded. "Okay then." She and Sophie left without much of an intermission beyond that. And not a moment too soon when Darumaka's misfired punch burst into flames in the wet grass close by.

"I'm not losing again!" Prinplup declared.

"Um, so Liepard…" Hearing her name, Liepard turned towards Happy, who held the dirty fish in his paws with a plea. "You still want some…?"

Looking at the dirty fish, Liepard's stomach immediately closed up. She lost her appetite looking at it. "Cana, better finish up. Somehow I'm aching to stretch my legs." She walked over to her side, oblivious to Happy's dejection, which left him white as a ghost.


Back in Sabertooth's town, three other figures were seen walking alongside one another, or rather two, and the other lagging like it wasn't his business. The blonde put his hands beyond his head as he casually strolled along. "Well, I say that went well." Joey pondered. "Another day, another couple of Jewels in our pocket as they say."

Despite slagging in shoulders, Dereece seemed placated. "Yeah, that went surprisingly fast. I didn't think Jason would be that quick." He heard slurping beside him, which came from his Heracross as he was sucking through a small jar of Honey that he was rewarded with. Dereece chose to ignore it.

"Just goes to show even guys like him don't have to mess around when work's done." Joey toothily smiled. "Ain't that right, Duncan?"

Duncan lowered his head, huffing. "If you say so."

Joey looked up to the clear blue sky, thinking back to the other day. After returning home from the island quest, Joey saw that he got mail. It was a shock, especially to Dereece. When Joey saw what it was, he couldn't stop bouncing around the house when it was Jason from Sorcerer Weekly. In the envelope was a snapshot of one of the pictures he took of Joey on the beach, and an invitation to a fashion shoot. Being the fashion victim and prodigy that he was, Joey couldn't possibly say no. And of course Dereece tagged along, which dubbed as an added bonus since he posed one or two pics for the new Trainers section in the magazine. Duncan was there as chaperone, but chose to decline the snapshots. It took nearly an hour for Joey to run every single angle – in dramatic fashion of course – until he and Jason were satisfied.

Joey held up copies of his photos, one of which was him with a hand beneath the elbow and fingers beneath his chin as he smirked and winked at the camera with his main attire. "Gotta say, Jason makes some mean photospreads." He teased. "My mom would be so proud of me."

Dereece rolled his eyes. "Of course she would be. But you know, Captain…why exactly are we going back on foot when we can take a train like before?"

Joey swept beside Dereece, lugging an arm around his shoulder with his usual broad grin. "C'mon, don't be a Slowpoke in the well. What's wrong with a little air and a nice stroll through a couple towns? Besides…" He held up the handheld boombox, pouting. "Look at Boombox. See this?" he held him to his face. "He's sad. You know why?"

Dereece blinked several times. "Uh…no?"

Joey scrunched his face and pulled away. Dereece levered upright again and gave Heracross an estrange look. The Single Horn insect didn't seem as confused as he was, probably due to sapping on the Honey jar still.

"Because, Dereece. We've played the same jams ever since we came here. And I think Boombox here is getting a little lonely." He pushed his lower lip up and gave puppy dog eyes for Boombox for a fake expression. He suddenly held it high. "That's why we need to look for something new, so that we can really spice up our parties!"

"So we're on a scavenger hunt is what you're saying." Dereece interpreted. He didn't at all seem amused by Joey's lust for 'musical festives', but knowing him he wouldn't have much of a say. "Well I guess it wouldn't hurt to look around I suppose. Never been to this area before."

Duncan looked up at the earnest tall building. He noticed almost immediately the stone saber that looked down at those in the crowd. It earned his interests.

"Hey look." Heracross followed his gaze. "Is that the symbol of a guild?"

Dereece looked up and followed his direction. He squinted as he pondered. "I think that's the symbol for Sabertooth."

Joey's eyes brightened. "Oh~, those guys." He put the boombox under his armpit and had hands to his hips at he observed the flag atop the domain. "Yeah, I remember them. They were the ones who we teamed up with in Alvarez, right?"

"Correct." Duncan responded. "And their mages are said to be strong too…" his eyes narrowed at the leading thought. "So should their Pokémon."

Joey shrugged. "Alright, well, let's see if they have any suggestions or party ideas so we can…" He trailed off as his hearing aids were helping pick up in low thumps from nearby -rhythmic thumps. Joey's body went stiff as he was processing the tune. "S-so we can…can…"

Suddenly we started tapping his foot against the ground. His body started moving and grooving sporadically. Dereece and Duncan raised brows and looked at each other as Joey was breakdancing freely.

"Uh, Captain Joey?" Dereece nervously asked. "Are you feeling alright?"

Joey started gyrating his hips like in a groove. He looked down at his revelation with surprise. "Dereece, do you feel it?" He jumped and turned around, sticking his clothed rear at his teammates. "My booty, it's sensing some good vibes!" he laughed proudly.

Duncan rolled his eyes in disinterest.

Dereece looked around to see his Captain's sudden breakdancing was causing some to awkwardly stare. Some were more curious though, but this was common behavior. "Look, Captain, maybe we should take a step away from-"

"Hey!" Joey got in Dereece's face, pointing a finger directly at his nose. "You know, as well as I do, that my booty, is never wrong! If there is a party and a good beat, you know I have to be there, Dereece. You know it!"

Once Joey leaned away, Dereece slumped his shoulders and sighed. "Guess we haven't anything better to do…just don't cause a scene."

Joey winked. "No promises. Now…follow the booty!" He started sticking his butt out with every turn. He went up the street, with his allies close behind.


"And…done!"

With one last strung of his guitar, he finished making the chords needed. He sat back up and looked at his laptop to see the soundwaves have been recorded. As he listened to the rifts recorded and the rhythm, he nodded with every tune made. He hit the pause and sat up, putting his guitar off to the side with his other instruments.

"Alright, I like the sound of that." He chimed. "Guess that song's another wrap-"

TAPATAPTAPTAP!

The sounds of urgent knocking caught his attention. He turned towards the door with subtle surprise. "Who the heck is that?" He heard the knocking again, and it sounded just as urgent as the first time. "Alright, alright! I'm coming!" He went and opened the doorknob. "Hello…?"

He opened the door, and immediately what he saw was the last thing he expected to see in the late morning. There stood not some mailman, or Rune Knights demanding eviction…but a young man in his late teens, fist pumping and humming as he swayed his hips like he was celebrating. He was so fixated on him he almost didn't notice his posse at the bottom of the steps, both faces plastered with seriousness.

He looked back at the blonde who was humming and dancing, staring at him blankly. He raised a brow and frowned. "Um…hello?"

"Psst, Joey." Dereece whispered.

"Hm! Hm!" Joey froze in place when he processed his friend's words. He opened his eyes and realized the vacant was standing at him with curiosity. An awkward silence fell upon them like lead, which could only be broken by a Pidgey that flocked overhead.

Joey straightened to, clearing his throat. "Erhem! Er, uh…sorry." He apologized. "I just heard some popping jams, and I just kinda…went with the flow." He twiddled his fingers in a runway fashion.

The tenant leaned against his doorframe with crossed arms. "'Heard some popping jams'?" he repeated. He took a moment to realize what Joey meant. "Oh. Oh, I see. Well, I don't know about 'popping', but I guess it's good."

"Well it was enough to shake my butt and bang my head here." Joey argued.

The man blinked. "I'm sorry, who're…" He took a moment to realize who they were. "Wait a sec…you're Joey Haycliff, am I right?"

Joey pointed a finger to himself. "You know me?"

He shrugged. "Yeah, everybody saw your battle a month ago. Heard you like to party to, sounds about right?"

Joey blinked in mild surprise. He leaned back to Dereece and whispered softly. "Wow, this guy paid attention…should be flattered or creeped out?"

Dereece shrugged. "Don't ask me."

The man reached out to Joey. "Sorry, where are my manners? Name's Shou. I'm a musician."

Joey calmed down quickly, smiling as he shook his hand. "Joey Haycliff, awesome to meet you. So you make music?"

"Yeah, sure do." He pulled back, shrugging his shoulders. "I gotta make a living somehow. Say, you're a guy with music taste, aren't you?"

Joey raised a brow, leaning in with eight fingers tapping. "Eh, that depends. Are we talking about hard rock or samba?"

"Hard rock. If you listened to it from out there, guess you wanted to listen to more, right?"

This news immediately perked Joey up, almost startling Shou. "Do I? You sure you don't mind? We were just looking for tunes for us as well."

Shou smirked. "Guess we're in luck. You can come in." He opened the door wider, allowing them passage into his studio.

The Freaks walked inside, taking their shoes off at the doorstep as per courtesy allows it. They looked around, looking at the shelves with the few instruments that were pinned and mounted on the walls. Off to the corner there was what looked like a microphone connected to the laptop. Overall, while it was admirably small, it left a record-deal impression on them.

Joey eyed the place, whistling. "Now this is a bachelor pad."

Dereece eyeballed everything around him. He saw the bass guitar in glass casing. A closer look showed a signature by somebody, but it was such messy cursive he couldn't tell.

"Yeah, took me a little while." Shou admitted. "Sorry if it's cluttered. You can probably tell by all the instruments that I make a living out of it."

Joey looked over at something that caught his eye. He inhaled a gasp in dramatic fashion at a piano guitar that was hanging up between a regular guitar and a rock guitar. "Noooo~!" he cackled happily. "You have a piano guitar?! I have one!" he coughed some to correct himself. "Er, I mean I used to, before I…moved and all."

"Oh, that?" Shou walked to his side at said instrument. "Yeah, that guy there's a tough nut to crack. I didn't learn piano much growing up." He looked towards Joy. "You say you play it?"

"Yeah, all the time when Dereece and I played those band simulations. Like the Wild Rumble 6, Pokemon Band 5: Ludicolo's Fiesta, Magne-Zone. That last one's where you gotta play that instrument a lot because of the electronic funk it carries."

"Interesting…"

Walking near a window, Duncan was too busy admiring the Fearow that was flying outside. It looked strong. His glare at it was hampered by the fact that by the time he ran outside, it would be long gone. He took a look back at Dereece and Heracross, the later who wanted to touch a guitar with his sticky honey claws, only for Dereece to pull him away. He looked back at Joey, pulling out the boombox and demonstrating somethings about it.

Observing the two numbskulls, Duncan looked back out the window to find the Fearow gone. Instead, the image of Sophie was on his mind. He didn't want to be here any longer than he had to, but what happened during that battle against Andromeda left him all contorted, especially afterwards. The visage of Sophie thanking him still made him sore, not that he would ever show it.

Still, he had to at the very least respect the wishes of what Sophie would've wanted. He decided to look around, whereas his gaze fell on a picture that caught his eye. "Hm?" He wandered over to it, seeing a picture of Shou in the middle. He saw him centered around six other Pokémon, who seemed relatively close to him. One was a black fox with her head nudging his face. Beneath was a spiky yellow dog-like creature, who was directly across a large armored mole who half-grinned. In the background, there was a curled up small punk elephant on the far left, and a three-headed dragon on the far left, looking completely calm. And directly behind Shou, there was a long green serpent who held his head high.

Duncan narrowed his eyes, a hunch driving up his spine. He was completely oblivious to the others behind him.

"So you guys like music." Shou walked over to his desk, pulling out his chair and sitting down in it. "So, let's see what you got."

Joey rolled his neck, making popping noises with each bone. "Alright." He snapped his fingers. "Dereece!"

Dereece went over, his hands covered in Honey. He quickly wiped it off using a warm cloth he carried and put it in his pocket. He took a deep breath and sighed. Once calmed, he picked up the drumsticks and tapped them together.

[Miror B. Battle Theme]

With the funk setting playing on the piano guitar, Joey was swaying hip as he played the tune. He was biting his lower lip as he was dancing along with the tune, the climax making him shift towards the side to a walkway style.

As he watched Joey shred the guitar like he owned it, he was leaned back in his chair and was dazzled.

Joey howled to the ceilings as he sunk to his knees, fiddling the keys to their perfect tune.

With a sigh of relief, Minerva walked back down the avenue towards the guild hall. "Thankfully my territory was able to transport that much chlorine." She mused to herself. "That many gallons. When I said I supported the decision of a pool, I never thought he'd…" She trailed off when she was hearing a loud music from the house she was coming up to. Taking a pause, she felt her feet vibrate from the bass it carried. "What is that sound?"

After what felt like a few minutes of repeating the same notes, Joey and Dereece trailed off in synchronization. "So, how was that?" Joey looked towards Shou, who, by all means, was beyond staggering.

"That…" Shou looked like a Thunderbolt struck him, he was shocked. "I gotta say dude…you've got some sick talent!"

Joey beamed with the upmost pride. "Thanks, Dereece and I practiced a lot…" his face thus fell to a serious frown. "But, that's the problem. We've been repeating the same jams since we've came here. So, we were hoping you could help us out. We'll pay you for the trouble."

Shou got up from his chair, hands to his hips with an intrigued grin. "Well, Joey, I have to say, you guys have me interested. I've been meaning to try out some new strings. How's about you guys hear my recent piece?"

"That's great!" A knock came from the door once again, making Joey raise a brow. "Eh, I think you've got another guest."

"Yeah I got it." Shou shuffled across the hardwood ground towards the door. When he opened it, he saw a rather good-looking young woman with narrow eyebrows and a wrist pinned to her hip. "Can I help you?"

Minerva wasn't fazed by how the young man looked at her so nonchalantly. "I'm sorry to have intruded on anything, but I just heard how rather loud you were playing." She put it in the most subtle way she could. Thankfully from her reception Shou took it patently.

"Oh, sorry. We'll tone it down." He looked over his shoulder back inside. "Hey guys, we gotta turn it down! Our neighbors are getting fussy!"

"Sorry~!" Joey echoed.

"You have guests?" Minerva looked over Shou's shoulder towards the back of his studio. She saw a familiar fashionable blonde, along with a man with a white cap and one whose hands were still sticking to the drumsticks. His Heracross was trying to pull them off but was ending up licking them instead.

"Heracross!" Dereece scolded.

Minerva blinked in surprise. "Fairy Tail?"

Seeing the new guest, Joey peered from afar and saw the familiar raven-haired female. "Hey, aren't you from that Sabertooth guild we knew a while back? What was it again?" Joey put an index finger to his chin to think…but was drawing a blank.

"Minerva." She introduced, turning towards Shou. "So then, this is the reason why it's been rather noisy around here. I hope that these three aren't much…" Far behind, Heracross finally pried the drumsticks off Dereece, unintentionally making a force into the drums and the symbols that shrilled in everyone's ear. "…a hassle." She dryly finished.

Shou dismissed her testimony without a thought. "It's totally fine. You know these guys?" he pointe d a thumb back at them. "Because of you do, maybe we can work something out? You like music?"

Minerva lowered her head. "To some degree, I suppose."

In breakneck speeds, Joey raced between the two. "Then I say we get a little compromise!" he turned to Minerva. "Say, Minerva, your guild likes music, right?" He turned towards Shou. "And Shou here's looking for ways to get his music out."

"Where might this be going?" she inquired.

Shou's eyes widened. "…oh. I get it. You wanted to see if they'll want my music?"

Joey winked. "You guessed it."

Minerva put a hand to her chin, allowing the thought to ponder some. "Hm, I suppose so long as Master Sting allows it. But I was coming back from an errand for him. Excuse me for one second, if you will."

In a flash, she teleported away. Joey and Shou looked at each other in confusion, while they waited they were unaware of the three cloaked individuals that were slightly peering out from the corner of the complex.

"Did you hear that, boss? She has a guild." The short one said.

"Now we know where to find her." The broad one huffed. "Now she won't get away from the likes of us. Hehehe-"

The tall one grabbed their heads slowly, slamming them together and letting them fall before him. "Quiet." He whispered. He ducked behind the corner to avoid Joey's eyes. 'We need to do this without garnishing attention. We'll have to wait until she's alone.'

Blinking, Joey turned his head. 'That's weird. I thought I heard something.' A chill went p his spine at the thought of a certain Whirlipede-incest creep who stalked him. Thankfully Minerva's sudden reappearance provided a distraction.

"My Master says that he'll allow it." She reported. "He'd like to see you so we can discuss it, now that the pool has been chlorinated."

Shou's shock was evident on his face. He looked genuinely surprised. "You mean it?" his eyes brightened. "Oh, geez. I-I don't know what to say…"

"Wait…" Joey froze, his ears twitching. "Did you say…pool?"

Minerva nodded. "Yes, I did. Why, does Fairy Tail not have a pool?" She snickered low at the self-esteem she proclaimed. She didn't mean it in a crude way, but to know Sabertooth has stuff that Fairy Tail doesn't would provide leverage of their guilds crossed paths. What she didn't expect, was how wide Joey was smirking.

"Tell me, do you guys have something called…a waterslide?"


Vanessa guided Sophie pass Magnolia northward up a small hill away from town. It went up to a small trail that went past a sign that said 'Nic & Erza Pularis' with a small mailbox. They walked up towards a small cottage with a battlefield on the side. Sophie looked at her surroundings one last time, seeing how rather…country-ish it was out here.

"Your brother lives rather far from the guild." Sophie commented stately.

Vanessa chuckled at her wording. "Yes. You know our guild has a rather nasty…habit, of not respecting space. So, Nic likes to keep himself a lot. Certainly makes it harder to pester someone when they're out somewhere else." She mused.

Sophie caught onto the small joke and giggle. "I see. A recluse. That's quite the contradiction from you."

"It's all a niche. At any rate, we should see if they're home." She went up and knocked on the door. "Nic. Erza. It's me, Vanessa. I came with Sophie, just like you said." She waited for an answer after a whole minute. She remained patient and stepped back. Her aura was sensing them walking up to the door.

"Maybe they're not home." Sophie opposed. To be perfectly honest she was a little intimidated by Nic. She only met him once after her amnesia and the first impression she had was him punching Natsu across the face.

Vanessa sensed her distress and turned towards her. "You don't have to worry about him, Sophie. The truth is, you and him actually got along very well."

Sophie blinked. "Y-you sure?"

"Of course." Her lips formed a slightly wider smirk. "And from what I've seen, too…you fickle quite a bit with putting him up with Erza." She saw the blush on Sophie's face, which made her giggle impishly.

The door soon opened, getting their attention. Vanessa, Sophie, and Kadabra looked at Nic and Erza both present. But what they didn't expect, was how beat up both were. Their clothing was misaligned, and they looked a little grumpy. But what didn't escaped their gazes, was all ink marks on their faces. It was like kids drew on their faces.

"Oh…hey Vanessa." Nic groaned. "You're early."

"Hey, Nic. Erza." She looked curiously at the two. "Do I want to know what happened?"

Nic and Erza turned sourly at one another, remembering full well what happened earlier.

"Erza, no! Just, no! NO!" Nic quickly took the pen away from his wife. She was at the desk in the den and a small lamp was casting light on a piece of paper. Around them, their Pokémon were minding their own business as they saw fit.

"Oh, don't be such a spoiled sport." Erza huffed. "Look, just let me write the letter. What's the harm in letting me write such a simple sentence?"

Nic's expression deadpanned. "Erza, we've talked about this. I write the letters around here. I don't want to have to remind you the last time you sent a letter to somebody."

Erza's left brow twitched at the thought of what happened. She vividly remembered the people with pitchforks and torches who came at their doorstep the day after she sent the 'thank you' letter for their help in Alvarez' first invasion. Nevertheless, she was never the type to step down from a challenge. "I'll have you know, I've been practicing."

"Since when?" Nic interrogated.

Erza beamed with pride. "Every other night, while you're asleep. Why, I've even copied your so-called cursive. See?"

Nic watched as Erza pulled up a sheet of paper from the drawer beside her. She showed Nic a draft of what she tried writing. Suffice to say that it looked like chicken scratch more so than actual words. Even when Greninja looked at it, he and Nic shared nervous gazes and the former stepped away. It wasn't his problem to solve.

Erza smiled pridefully at Nic's response. "See that? Your expression of glee is all the proof I need!"

Nic wasn't usually so hard on Erza; it's usually the other way around. However, in an artist's eye, Nic couldn't have such patience for literature to be smeared. Now was one of those times to not let Erza have her way.

He quickly snatched the paper. "Erza, a Pidgey can write this and they'll still understand it better than this!" he held the scribbles up to her face. "You seriously need to work more on your penmanship. This is precisely why I had to draw up all your armor designs."

"Only because you fail to understand my artistic vision." She argued back.

"At least I'm legible."

Erza crossed her arms beneath her gargantuan buxom and turned away. "Oh, and I suppose that also makes me a terrible actress then, if my 'Artist's Eye' is that bad. If I didn't know any better, I'd say you're jealous of my abilities on stage."

Nic sulked his shoulders down. It was the exact opposite. But rather than digress, he remained on point. "That isn't the point. Look, I'll help you with your penmanship later. Just let me write this!" He wasn't expecting Erza to turn around and pull out a spare pen and paper from the drawers and ignore him. "Erza, c'mon…"

Erza confidently ignored her husband's plea and hummed to herself. "Now, where to begin…"

Nic shook his head. "I didn't want to have to do this…Kecleon! Thief!"

Erza's pen was about the hit touchdown, when Kecleon appeared attached to the ceiling above. She opened wide and her tongue crashed into her wrist, making her recoil. The sticky tongue retracted the pen and paper into her close, closing it. "Tag, you're it." She chimed.

Enraged, Erza sat up and summoned a sword pointed at Kecleon. "Unhand those at once!"

"Run, Kecleon!" Nic ordered.

Erza threw the sword like a lance just as Kecleon disappeared. Her red stripe was barely visible, yet at blinding speeds she was gone. "Slurpuff, track her down!"

In the kitchen where a fridge shut, Slurpuff was holding a small plate of strawberry cheesecake. She licked her lips, ready to savor it.

"SLURPUFF!"

Startled by her Trainer, Slurpuff almost lost hold of the plate and stumbled to grab it. She placed it inside the fridge and started smelling around for Kecleon. She tracked her into the hallway.

"Nic~!" Nic was caught off guard when Erza grabbed his hand where the pen was. They started fighting over it. "You need to control your Pokémon better! That was extremely rude of her!"

"It's not my fault I'm trying to save someone's sanity from you!" Nic retorted. "Give it!"

"You give it!"

The two were in a tug-of-war, the pen unable to handle much of the stress. The plastic snapped around the ink, causing it to splatter over their faces. Wiping away the ink from both their eyes, the two paused before their rivaled glares caused them to tackle the other to the ground.

"Don't ask." They groaned in unison.

Sophie and Kadabra turned to each other in utter confusion; it was just as wondrous how Vanessa was able to keep such relaxation still.

"You can come inside." Erza insisted. "We've made some Oran Berry pie. It's Johanna's recipe." She and Nic moved back inside as the girls and Kadabra ventured inside.

Sophie paid explicit attention on her surroundings. She wanted to make sure that she would remember them just in case anything went wrong. She got what felt like a cozy vibe as she took in the fresh smell of baked pie, no doubt from Erza in the kitchen. She noticed the color of their welcome mat was a light green, which complimented the brightness of the ceiling. Everything looked deeply clean – aside from the wedge in the ceiling when Erza impaled it with her sword earlier. Overall, it looked like a bright little hobble.

'So this is how Nic and Erza live.' In her head, she saw it differently, much to her disappointment. 'I thought people like them would be living in a castle, or a mansion…Nic must really be low-maintenance.'

Kadabra was walking casually when he bumped into something. "Oof!" He fell on his bottom, shaking the shock off. "What in the world…?" He looked ahead of him, squinting hard at the vague image of a red stripe. He blinked in confusion as the image faded into view, scaring him and Sophie to recoil as Kecleon was seen. What scared them the most…was how she was dangling in front of them by her tongue stuck by the ceiling.

"A…Pokémon?" Sophie pondered.

Suddenly her Poke Ball popped open without question. Araquanid emerged with Finneon in the water bubble, and gave a territorial hiss to Kecleon. The chameleon was far from intimidated.

"Araquanid." Sophie gasped lightly. He moved closer to her to keep her safe from everyone else. He was so close that his water bubble almost pulled her in. Her hair was wet though. "Araquanid…" she grunted, but given her recent amnesia, she had to accept his defensive behavior.

"This is Nic's Kecleon." Vanessa introduced calmly. "Don't worry, she's harmless." She smiled up at her. "Isn't that right?"

Despite hanging by her tongue, Kecleon amazingly tilted her head, raising a claw. "Green light for salutations." She chirped in her creepy monotone. She dislodged from the ceiling and landed on her feet. With one more head tilt, she blinked silently and vanished into a faded rest stripe that vanished.

Sophie tried to get over the shock. "She's…a character?"

"Here's the pie." Their attention was grasped by Erza, who was followed by her Slurpuff who was serving the fresh pie with saliva dripping from her mouth. She really wanted a slice, and she knew she was gonna get it, but Erza made it clear she'll get her sweets when she's allowed. Nic came in soon after.

They took a loveseat, while Vanessa and Sophie took two small chairs. Erza promptly sliced using a metal knife with precision and handed the two their plates. Slurpuff was next, and boy did she look satisfied.

"Nic, aren't you going to have a slice?" Vanessa questioned.

Erza huffed and raised her head. "He doesn't get any." She huffed, much to Nic's chagrin. "He doesn't deserve it."

Nic rolled his eyes. "C'mon, we both apologized."

Vanessa sighed expectantly. "Well, seems you're both as fruitful as ever I see." She looked down at the Oran Berry pie in front of her face. She took the plastic fork that came with it and picked up a small end piece to the dessert. She chewed on it, savoring its taste. A serene smile crossed her face. "Just like how Johanna made it." She mused.

"I'm sorry. I don't mean to come off as rude, but who might Johanna be?" Sophie nervously questioned. Araquanid made sure to keep an eye on their surroundings.

"She's our foster mother. Well, I suppose to be more accurate, she's my foster mother." Vanessa smirked. "Nic went off on his own so he never knew them well like I did."

"I see, and this is her recipe?" She looked down at the pie to pick up a small end with her fork. She could see the baked Oran Berry filling that was see-through. It actually looked delicious. Deciding not to be rude, she ate a small piece. Her tongue lit up with a variety of flavors, making her almost pucker. "This is good." she smiled.

"The berries were fixed from the backyard." Nic pointed out. "We've been planting some berries to help with our battles." He got a nudge from Erza, earning his attention. "Hm?"

"Are you sure he's coming?" she whispered softly into his ear.

Nic pulled back from her. "Yeah, don't worry. He said he'll be here soon." He looked back to Sophie, trying to keep his calm disposition around him. "So anyways, Vanessa. How was the recent job you guys took?"

"Well…" she sat her plate down so she could tell her tale. What she didn't account for was Erza's Slurpuff creeping around her and eying it anxiously. "It went rather well. All Sophie and I did was help secure a shipment of gold from robbers along a train. It wasn't anything that Goodra wasn't prepared for."

Sophie thought about the job yesterday as well, though she seemed uneased with her performance. "I…can't say that I did very much. I'm still trying to figure out how I can use those memory chains. All I really know so far if how to make afterimages of myself, and that's it."

Araquanid moved one of his huge legs in front of Sophie, towering protectively. "Don't worry, those guys didn't get within ten feet due to us."

"Please, Araquanid." Finneon insisted. "Don't be so domineering."

He gave the fish a shift of his glance. "Well, can you blame me?"

With Vanessa distracted by Sophie's Pokémon arguing over their positions, Slurpuff found the perfect opportunity to sneak up to Vanessa's plate. She was about to devour the rest of the slice when an aromatic scent caught her attention. Sniffing it, she trailed it with a dreamy gaze back towards Nic, who fiddled his fingers and spread Sweet Scent to keep her walking in circles. With her smelling the sweet, sweet air, she was so oblivious to when a swift orange blur cawed and swept Slurpuff away, screaming and whining.

Barely catching the orange avian, Sophie blinked. "Uh, did you see something?" She looked at Nic, who slumped to the side of the loveseat, whereas Erza hummed while sipping tea. The façade wasn't plastered well on their faces, not that Vanessa didn't see it coming.

Deciding to let it go, Sophie shrugged. "Okay then?"

Before the conversation dragged further, the door knocked in the front.

Kadabra looked over his shoulder. "Another guest?"

Erza got up and walked over. "Allow me."

The others sat around as they heard her footsteps cease and a knob open. When it did, there was the sounds of a light conversation by a man it seemed, as well as Erza. On a delighted note, Erza came back into the room, whispering into Nic's ear.

Vanessa looked on as Nic and Erza seemed to be whispering in another's ear about something. Her magic was a no-brainer as she could clearly sense the seriousness of the situation. She got up and decided to move to another place.

"Sophie." Nic turned to her. "Listen. There's someone we want you to meet. We think now would be as good as time as any for you both to talk."

Sophie blinked. "Who?"

Nic and Erza stepped off to the side. They gave entrance as someone who was well-dressed entered the living room with a large red cap, with a massive pink plumage feather sticking out from atop. His blonde hair was a darker hue than her own, but the way he looked at her, for some reason, it made Sophie feel a case of déjà vu.

'Wait…have I seen him before?'

The man took off his cap, bowing towards his peers. "Pleasure to be here. It's been quite a while, hasn't it…Sophie?"

Startled by how he knew about her, she turned towards Nic and Erza for answers. Their happy and calm demeanors from before were dead serious. This made her lose her appetite.

"Sophie, this is someone who you knew your childhood." Nic gestured towards their guest. "This is Rufus…he's your cousin."

Her green eyes widened as she sharply returned her attention to Rufus. The blond looked just as serious. "Hello, Sophie."


"Oi! Quit messing around, Dobengal! Finish him already!"

Orga along with several other mages were watching from the free space around the guild hall as the ninja was keeping a watchful eye on his opponent. Suffice to say he was no pushover like he thought. His Frogadier and Ninjask were a ways apart from the opposing Yanma and Stunfisk that were backing up Dereece. He looked just as anxious.

While Shou was busy setting up his equipment, as her with Sting's supervision, the others decided to pass the time by engaging in a Pokémon Battle. Having enough of Orga's complaints about his style, Dobengal decided to battle Dereece, who generously accepted. So far, they were in the thick of it.

"Hey! I got 2,000 Jewel bet on ya! Don't make me regret it!" Sorano shouted. She was with her Mantine, watching from the pool in her swimsuit. "Go, go! Frogadier! Go, go! Ninjask!"

"Make his booty ache, Dereece! Show him your stuff!" Joey encouraged. He, too, was in his swimsuit and in the pool with Gyarados, roaring intimidating cheers of his own.

Dobengal didn't give Dereece a break as he jabbed forward. "Frogadier, Bubble! Ninjask, Bug Bite on Yanma!" At his command, Ninjask, already boosted by Speed Boost, had his glowing mouthpiece set as vanished. Frogadier followed that up with a blast of blue bubbles at his foes.

"Yanma, Detect! Stunfisk, Mud Shot!" Dereece countered. Yanma's eyes flashed green and she suddenly evaded Ninjask when he appeared and tried to bite her. She reappeared behind, where he vanished and gave chase. Meanwhile, Stunfisk's mud blasts were cancelling out the jet of bubbles, making murky sprays in the center of the carpet.

"This is awesome!" Heracross pumped a claw. He was cheering off to Dereece's side, still eating his Honey that was partially over his mouth.

"This battle is very entertaining." Rogue complimented. "Dereece is keeping up well with Dobengal's speed."

"Fro, thinks so too!" Frosch cheered. He was eying Frogadier, who jumped into the air. "Yay! Go froggy!"

With Frogadier getting an impressive aim above, Dobengal pointed directly down at Stunfisk. "Let's see you escape from a double attack now! Frogadier, Water Pulse! And Ninjask, use Fury Cutter!" Frogadier charged up a sphere of water between both hands and launched it. Ninjask heard the directives and ignored Yanma, turning with expanding mandibles and blitzing after Stunfisk.

Dobengal glared ahead, looking readily anxious for his attacks to hit. 'If these hit, he won't be able to withstand them.'

Stunfisk held out as long as possible until the sphere and the insect came at him. "Camouflage!" Dereece shouted. Stunfisk started fading away, his figure disappearing into the background.

Dobengal saw the trick, his eyes widening. "What?!"

Ninjask stopped short of where Stunfisk would be. But with him camouflaged, he could've moved anywhere. Distracted, he was too unfocused to noticed the blue hemisphere that crashed into his back, swallowing him in a blue explosion of mist. Ninjask grunted as he floored from the damage he sustained.

"Ninjask!"

Ninjask got a claw to the ground when he heard a chuckle from in front. Fading back, Stunfisk revealed he hadn't moved and was laughing. "Oi, that must have really bugged ya, aye mate!" he chuckled at the joke.

Ninjask grew a large tock mark, his anger spiking. With him close, Stunfisk was unaware to the Fury Cutter that was followed up and sent him flopping. He grimaced as that blow knocked an ideal amount of wind out of him.

Ninjask huffed in retaliation. However, that was short-lived when static charged around his body, causing him to cringe. Dobengal gasped when he realized the mistake of Static activated.

"Uh oh, looks like he's stunned." Orga chimed.

With Ninjask slowed down, his focus was disoriented. He was completely oblivious to Yanma, who was right above him. When he looked up, it was too late.

"Sonic Boom!" Yanma's wings glowed white and she released a powerful shockwave down towards Ninjask. His eyes were wide as the attack swallowed him in a white blast that sent him barreling into the ground. When he came to a stop, he was outcold.

"Ninjask, return!" Dobengal returned Ninjask with haste, his exasperation revealing itself. "Hmph, seems that I'll have to go on defense." He reached out ahead. "Frogadier, conceal yourself! Smokescreen!"

Frogadier crouched and conjured smoke in the mouth. He spun in place as the black smoke turned to a vortex that expanded outwards. Stunfisk camouflaged himself while Yanma was forced to get airborne and away from the smoke.

"Now, let's take out that Yanma. Use Water Pulse!"

Inside the black smoke, a blue flare was seen. Yanma's earlier Speed Boosts allowed her to tell where it was coming from and ascended to the guild building. The sphere of water followed close behind. As the water sphere was gradually pushing towards her, she revealed one trick.

She suddenly glanced down, her body did a half-crescent turn, going from up to a gliding downwards around the blast of water, just as it was about to hit.

"What?!"

"Don't forget, Yanma have 360 vision." Dereece reminded him. "And now that we know where you are…Stunfisk! Thunder Shock!"

Inside the vague smoke cloud, still camouflaged, Frogadier looked hastily around until a light came from behind. Catching on, he turned around and jumped out of the bolts way. He jumped out of the smoke cloud and straightened out…but this proved to be a careless mistake when Yanma was directly above.

"Now! Quick Attack!"

Yanma growled as her outline glowed bright blue. "Here we…GO~!" With her Speed at an all-time high, she used the velocity to become a green and red blur that Frogadier had no hopes of escaping. The attack speed made her push him into the ground, trailing along the carpet back towards Dobengal. It was a critical hit.

Dobengal went wide-eyed and sunk to his knees as the dust cleared. Frogadier was lying on his back, his mouth wide open as his eyes were swirls. He was defeated.

Dereece pumped a fist in glory. "Alright!"

The rest of the guild cheered for a really good battle shown. Dobengal grimaced as he returned Frogadier. Yanma perched atop of Stunfisk's tail as he reappeared, looking up at her with a smile of his own.

Sorano sulked in the pool, going nose-deep as bubbles gurgled to the surface.

"Looks like you owe me some Jewel." Joey teased. "Pay up!"

Pouting, Sorano looked sourly away as Joey was handed a small handful of cash in a sac. He smiled wide, much to Sorano's ire. "I knew that was a mistake! I'm never betting again!" she roared.

"You win some you lose some. Ain't that right, Gyarados?" Joey looked up to Gyarados, who was roaring low as he used Splash, causing waves that Joey absolutely enjoyed. Meanwhile, Mantine and Sorano were pushed to the shallow end of the pool, the latter's hair completely wet and soaked.

She wasn't the only one sad though, Frosch sulked as well. "Ohhh, poor Frogadier…" he whimpered.

Lector moved to his side, comforting him. "It's okay, buddy. He'll win next time. I promise."

Hearing the commotion from afar, Sting was looking back to see the battle was over. He turned back towards Minerva and Shou, who were transporting sound equipment and devices. This recent trip was the last. "Is that it?" He looked up at the many sound devices, he was astonished at how many this guy had.

Minerva looked at him affirmative. "Yes, that should be the last of it." She turned to Shou. "Are you ready?"

Shou nodded. "Sure."

Sting turned towards his rowdy guild, his Druddigon raising his head. He expelled a loud roar that echoed throughout the building, shrilling ears and people's fears. They all ceased their conversations and turned towards Sting as he stepped up.

"Thanks Druddigon." His dragon walked away while he took the stage. "Alright everyone, I know we have guests from Fairy Tail. And we're pleased to have them here. So let's welcome them with open arms, okay?" he looked serious. "That said, thanks to some of what Joey said, we decided to try out something new." He looked behind, seeing Shou lugging in his laptop. "We've got a musician with us today, so we're gonna be trying some live music."

Yukino blinked, clasping her hands. "Wow, live music?"

Orga scoffed, though seemed elated with Pikachu on his shoulder. "Heh…I was looking to battle that guy next, but this should be fun." That remark behind left Dereece to sigh in relief.

"It'll be fine, trust me guys. Look, I know we've been known to have changed since Jiemma left, but we need to find more ways to make our guild stand out. And on top of that, contracting with someone who has just as much talent as the rest of us who isn't part of our guild just goes to show how much more open we can be." That did the trick as they all went silent. "Alright then." He turned towards Shou. "Show them what you got."

Shou nodded, grabbing his guitar. "Okay. Here's a nice opener." He went over to the laptop, readying the track. Once set, he went up front and started up his guitar.

[Trivium – The Heart From Your Hate]

The laptop hardwire with lacrima was doing the drums recorded, while Shou was started the lyrics and the guitar. Once the beginning lines picked up, the heart rates of everyone skyrocketed when the entire guild hall turned into a concert hall as guitars and metal caused heads to bang.

From the pool. Joey held up peace signs and screamed. "WOOOOO~! Yeah! I so wish Nic-Senpai was hear! He'd love to hear this kind of stuff!" He banged his head of hair, and behind him, his Gyarados was splashing nonstop in the pool.

The music kept playing, following up to the first chorus. Shou wasn't at all looking nervous as he was eyeballing everyone on him. Though it was just one instrument, the laptop prerecording was taking care of the rest. He leaned back and banged his head as he moved with his rock guitar.

"To rip the heart from your-" Shou pointed to everyone.

"HATE!" They cheered.

It was a hysterical time, one that even got Orga in the mood. By the time the next chorus was being prepared, he, along with Pikachu, were coming up to the stage and taking the mic from Shou. It was extremely rude, but as he was getting to the chorus, Orga began blasting everyone with the same lyrics as before, and Pikachu was banging his head with ecstatic glee. Sabertooth was getting riled up even more. With Orga taking over the lyrics for chorus lines, Shou was continuing to strum it all off. The music kept on echoing, so much that even outside, those watching thought it was a concert happening. Not that it mattered.

As Shou was going for the solo, the guild was cheering loudly. The only ones who weren't at all piqued was Duncan – who was in the far back at a table reading a guidebook on lacrima apparently -and Minerva. She was standing off to the side with Sting, who was looking pumped with Druddigon and Lector. She couldn't believe it, and this wasn't the kind of music that got her going.

Now that she thought about it, she never even considered what kind of music she liked. She always worked in the guild, so music wasn't really a priority for her. Supposedly, with Dark Guilds gone, and there being less threats it seems, this may be a time for her to backtrack and think about that. Exactly what did she like?

"To rip the heart from your hate!"

Minerva heard the music stop and looked towards Shou and Orga, who were given exceeded amounts of applause from the entire audience. She watched him bow while Orga flexed in a manly way. Shou grabbed the mic and waved to the crowd. "Thank you! Thankyou very much! You're a wonderful crowd!"

Dereece whistled at the amount of attention the musician was getting. "Man, the dude's got a good range of music."

"I know, right?" Sliding from the side, Joey was back in his normal attire. "Which is why he's playing for all of us right now! He gets a job, and we get new songs! It's a win-win!"

Taking a short break before his next song, Orga decided to leave stage. Shou looked over to Minerva, who was looking contemplative. "Hey, you okay?"

Breaking away from zoning out, Minerva blinked several times before realizing she was called. "Huh? My apologies…" she trailed off, shirking away. "Nice intro…I suppose."

She didn't sound so convinced. This worried Shou. "You not a fan of hard rock? I can play something softer next if that's what you want."

Minerva straightened herself. "I assure you, I'm well maintained. You can play what you like." The way she seemed so sterned about it was like how a strict mother would be to her child when he did something wrong, but was playing along.

Shou wasn't taking the hint so lightly. If anything it felt more like a guilt trip. But he wasn't going to let it ruin his fun. "Alright, if you say so." He went towards the laptop, readying the next selection on his playlist.

Minerva crossed her arms, shuffling in place. What Hoshina said about her stung her head for the umpteenth time today. She didn't need a man right now…did she? And even if she did, she had standards…wait, did she? What were those standards? She was so confused by today that her good mood has been hijacked by the racket Shou was making. That long wasn't doing good for her head.

Looking over, Lector noticed the moody expression on Minerva's face. "Hm? Hey, is Milady okay?"

"Maybe she has a tummy ache." Frosch obliged.

Yukino sweatdropped behind him. "Um, I'm sure she's just fine…" she trailed off. "I hope."

Being the one of reason, Sting decided to take it upon himself to talk to Minerva. He tapped his knuckles on her shoulder. "Hey, you who?" Minerva jumped, much to his surprise. "Geez, you alright? You look like you just had a nightmare."

Taking a moment to catch her breath, Minerva blinked. "M-Master Sting…apologies." She rubbed her arm bashfully. "I've been rather…preoccupied lately."

The others looed to each other with confusion. Sting pressed on.

"Well that's true, but you know, it's not wrong to ease up some. We're not in a fight right now." He reasoned. Minerva looked down. She seemed more contemplative than ever. "If you have something on your mind that's bugging you, you can talk to us. We're your guildmates."

"That's right." Lector jumped.

Minerva looked over at her ecstatic friends. Seeing their faces did make her feel a little less strained. She softly smiled. 'Maybe I'm overthinking it. This might not be the right place for it.' For now, she shook her head, her calm disposition back. "Don't worry…I think I'm better now."

Sting blinked. "You sure?"

"Yes. Absolutely. Now if you'll excuse me." She suddenly teleported away, leaving her friends in their bewilderment.

"What's up with her?" Lector wondered.

"No idea." Frosch pondered.

As Minerva was leaving, Shou didn't take his gaze off her as he scrolled for the next song to play.


Seconds after disappearing, Minerva went to the back of the guild hall. She used the side as support as she tried to catch her breath. She looked down towards the ground with a frown. If anything, she felt more insecure about herself than ever.

She then noticed a puddle of water that sat nearby. Deciding to peer into it, she investigated the still water at her reflection. She peered at her own reflection, seeing not a confident woman who downed a smirk of superiority. No. this was anything but. Despite having the voracious looks that would draw any man towards her, the frown she cast was of disappointment. She didn't know where this was coming from. Where was this stemming exactly?

As she gazed longingly at herself, a small wind picked up, causing a ripple to distort her figure. It faded into what she saw in Hoshina's possible fortune, of her in a bridal gown. It dawned upon her this was the reason, it had to be. Despite having Sabertooth, and many friends, she was realizing something deeper. It fell back to Nic – someone whom she admired for a long time. Someone who saved her from what could've been a very wrong past full of bad decisions. He was there for her when she needed someone…but that's just it. Did anyone need her? Did anyone even want her? She wasn't like Jiemma, her father wanted to drill her to be nothing but power, and all he saw in her saw his blood. Thanks to Bellona long ago, she was beyond that. That wasn't the problem right now, but she wouldn't say it didn't contribute to her insecurities to finding someone to possibly more than like her.

She sighed heavily as her reflection returned to herself. There was no point fighting them. 'What am I even doing anymore?'

"Heh, told ya she would be here!"

Minerva heard the tone and turned around. Much to her surprise, there were three cloaked individuals that stood in a small huddle that opposed her. Immediately she got a guard up.

"Look boss, she's all alone now." The broad one said. "Now's that chance we've been waiting fo-OW!" He was seized by the noggin a third time along with the short one and their heads slammed into each other. Together they floored in front of the tall one.

"You dunces." He scoffed. He looked at Minerva, who wasn't at all amused by the act. If anything she looked confused by their appearance.

"Pardon me, are you perhaps lost?" she asked. "If you're looking for spare change, I'm afraid I haven't any at the moment."

The tall cloaked man lowered his head. "Tch. As if. We're here for something far greater." His stooges started getting up, staggering upright. "Alright boys, now!"

The two cloaked figures reached for their cloaks and pulled them off. They whipped them into the air, with a third one preceding to make shadows over their figures. With the sun overcast, Minerva got a good look at them.

The shortest one had a small but lean built to him. He couldn't have been any older than 16, with a tattered yellow tank top with mud brown cargo pants that went down to his sandals. He had bare arms with a black wristband that matched his headband.

The broad one had what looked like a one-piece dark red suit with a yellow belt tied around the waist. He had black boots and deep blue fingerless gloves that were tattered on the ends. He had messy black hair and a beauty mark on his left cheek.

The last one was a tall one with a dark red cape. He had dark brown boots with moss green cargo pants that were supported by a blue belt. He had a light blue tank top and muscular arms that were crossed. He wore black fingerless gloves and had white hair that stood upright. On the forehead was a dark purple emblem that symbolized a crow with wings that looked like flickering flames.

Minerva saw all their appearances as the cloaks fell in front of them. They at all didn't look too happy with her given the expressions they had.

"Look at the face she's making." The short one smirked maliciously. "Seems to me she's taking us seriously."

The broad one balled a fist. "Heh, got that right. About time we get the respect we deserve."

After what felt like a minute, Minerva's gaze fell short of a care. "I'm sorry…who are you?"

Both grunts cringed at her response. They were so in shock that they froze in place like stone statues. "Imbeciles." The tall one walked pass them, getting meters between himself and Minerva.

"Seems we haven't fully introduced ourselves. The name's Ron. And what you see behind me, is the last of Crow's Flame." Behind, his subordinates calmed down. "And we're here for something very special."

Minerva raised a brow. "Crow's Flame…Crow's Flame…" She placed a hand to her hip, but drew up a blank. This infuriated the short one.

"C'mon! We were a well-known Dark Guild!" he jumped in the air, wailing his arms angrily. "We've been under hiding for nearly three years because of what you did! You witch!"

Minerva blinked, pointing a finger at herself. "Me?"

The broad one balled a fist. "Yeah, you! We were doing just fine, until you wiped out our entire guild like we were ants!" He shook in his rising anger. "The sheer humiliation of our friends being taken away…you're gonna pay for that-GAH!" For the umpteenth time, his head and the other grunt were slammed into each other, but didn't knock them out. It was to shut them up.

"As what they said…" Ron trailed along. "We've been under hiding for nearly three years, waiting and trying to find you, so we can exact our revenge for our guild."

Minerva scoffed, raising her head high. "I hate to be the one to break this to you, but I'm afraid you're a little late on that. Dark Guilds no longer exist."

Ron maliciously smirked. "Which is why we can reconstruct Dark Guilds. Whoever said they were truly gone. After all…" he pointed his thumb at the emblem at his forehead. "As long as we're still here, Dark Guilds still live. And that means…" he swept his arm away, showing a twisted dark anger on his face. "We'll be needing a little help with that."

Minerva raised a brow. "Huh?"

"Listen here, girl. I'll make this quick and simple. If you help us rebuild the guild and our new rise to power, we'll spare ya the humiliation."

Minerva narrowed her eyes. "Quite the boast of confidence you have. Unfortunately for you, I have better things to do than deal with third-rate mongrels like you. Now, if you'll excuse me-"

"That's where you're wrong." Ron reached out ahead of him. "Mean Look!"

Minerva nonchalantly prepared to teleport away, but she found herself confined by a vague dark aura encasing her body. "What's this?" She looked down at her arms and hands. They were coated in the aura. "I can't teleport?"

She heard a small cackle from behind, making her turn around. Floating inches from her was a midnight blue ghost with tendrils that ended in hot pink wisps. It had large yellow eyes and a red beaded necklace.

Minerva narrowed her eyes, realizing what this meant. "I see…" she turned towards Ron and his cronies. They pulled out Poke Balls of their own. Summoned to their sides were two more Pokémon. One was a tall blue fish-like creature, with feet and long arms with white highlights at the end. It had a big smile and beady black eyes. On the back were purple ridges with a wavy black spine. The other was a yellow humanoid creature with a brown underside. It had an elephant-like nose and pointed ears.

Ron stepped up, arms crossed. "I warned ya. Now, then take her!"

"Yes, sir!" The two gave a mock salute.

Minerva huffed at the chances given to her. "Seems rather unfair to have your Pokémon battle against a made, don't you think?" dark green orbs appeared in her hands, her eyes narrowing in growing demeanor. "If you absolutely insist on this, then by all means…"

From the corners of his lips, Ron smiled.

"I RAGH!" Minerva concentrated her Territory around all the enemies present. She discharged energy into concentrated explosions that were supposed to explode voluminously…but nothing happened. "What?"

The short one laughed uproariously to the air. "Oh man! She fell for it! I can't believe we duped her good!" he continued pointing and laughing. He wiped away a tear from his eye. "Sorry, but you ain't exploding anything this time. Quagsire's Damp won't allow it."

Minerva blinked in surprise. "Damp?" Now that he mentioned it, she noticed how slightly muggy it was ever since a couple seconds ago when Quagsire came out. 'I see, so they're using Pokémon moves and their powers to stop me altogether.' Her glare hardened on them. 'Seems they were serious after all.'

As she reached for her Poke Ball, Ron reacted fast. "Oh no you don't! Misdreavus, Confuse Ray!"

Minerva gasped when Misdreavus appeared in front and expelled a bright orb full of multiple colors. It launched into Minerva's face, causing her eyes to dilate from the eerie flash around her. Her entire world began distorting as the light faded. She was so distraught that her mind was drawing a blank. She had to use the side of the building as a foothold.

"Heheh, we got her good, boss!" The short one cheered. "Now what do we do?"

Ron turned towards his broad lackey. "Alright. You. Remember what we talked about. Have Drowzee put her to sleep…we'll deal with her cooperation once we get out of here."

The broad lackey nodded. "You got it." He faced Drowzee. "You, put her to sleep." At his behest, Drowzee raised his arms, his eyes glowing red as he gazed at Minerva to prepare his Hypnosis.

Minerva was still dizzy from what was going on. On top of her confusion, she was seeing fuzzy figments everywhere. She could barely see, let alone move. As an eerie wave was heading right for her, her fingernails unknowingly clutched the guild hall tighter.

SHHHHRRIING!

The harsh strum of an instrument was loud. Its metal-like shreds shrilled the air, snapping Minerva back to her senses. "H-huh?"

Drowzee cringed from the loud guitar shrilling. Quagsire didn't seem to mind much, but those sensitive like the humans and Misdreavus were cringing hard. Ron and his lackeys covered their ears as the guitar was playing and grew louder, and ever so closer.

"What, is that annoying sound?!" Ron sneered, gritting his teeth.

Minerva heard the tune and turned around. When she looked to who was there, she was stunned. "You…"

Stopping his tune, the echoes of his guitar faded into the air. Shou smirked proudly as he stood by Minerva's side. "You know, I ask for all of the audience to remain seated until the song is over." He eyed Minerva. "That goes for you, too."

Minerva was rendered completely silent. She heard a loud roar that made her heart skip again. Looking behind, she saw a Gyarados present, alongside Joey and The Freaks. Suffice to say that their opening did more than just impress her. She was sure she wasn't confused anymore, but that didn't make the situation any less confusing.

Shou strum his guitar, a chord echoing. "Guys, I need some battle tunes!"

Joey sat Boombox off to the side, turning a knob. "Oooh, this is gonna get real." He pressed the button, getting the music started.

[Fear, and Loathing in Las Vegas – Virtue and Vice]

Shou started strumming his guitar heavily as the music started heavily, his glare as clear as day. And by no means did he look happy.

Still covering their ears, the faulted Dark Guild remnants could barely think, let alone process what happened. "Hey! Quit that! Who the hell are you anyways?!" Ron demanded loudly.

With a small break, Shou plucked up one of the ends of his guitar. On one of the six pegs, he took off one of the Poke Balls on it and expanded it. He threw it high into the air. Out of it came a yellow dog-like creature with spiky pins all around the fur. It stood on four legs with an equally spiky mane. It had blue eyes and ears that twitched.

Duncan looked at the creature, his eyes casting onto Shou. He chose to step back and watch.

"Go, Jolteon!" Shou shouted.

Jolteon sparked as he growled. "Ohyeah! I'msoreadythey'llbeeatingdirforaweek! Bringiton!" He spoke so fast that it was almost impossible to hear him straight. He was so energetic.

Ron realized what was going on, and moved to make a quick counter. He turned to his lackeys. "Don't just stand there like ragdolls! Attack already!"

"Uh, r-right!" the broad one reached out at Jolteon. "Drowzee, Confusion!" Drowzee moved his hands and his eyes glowed pink. However, before he had the chance to attack, Jolteon was already in front of him.

"Readyboss!" he chirped.

Strumming his guitar pick, he reached out with it. "Jolteon, Thunder Shock!" At close range, Jolteon let loose a weak bolt of electricity that stung Drowzee. The tapir was helpless as the surge was causing him to cringe and fly into the broad one, who ended up electrocuted and fell on his back.

The short one looked horrified. "N-no way!" He looked back, angered. "Oh, you've done it now! Quagsire, Mud Shot!" His Quagsire sighed as he opened his maw. Inside, orange globs turned into brown mud balls that shot towards everyone.

"Gyarados!" At Joey's command, Gyarados' long body snaked everyone in a coil. He tucked his head in and took the mud blasts, which did nothing to him. The short one staggered back in shock, while behind, Heracross was set.

"Alright Dereece, back me up with this." Joey told him.

He nodded. "You got it!" He reached out. "Heracross, use Horn Attack!"

"Gyarados, use Waterfall!"

With Heracross perched on Gyarados' head, the beetle lowered his head as the horn glowed. Gyarados hollered as he summoned a wave of water that swept into Quagsire and the short mage. At blinding speeds, Gyarados soared across the water, diving with Heracross at the front with great momentum. Quagsire was too slow to act, as his ability wasn't meant for this. At the moment of their impact, a white explosion burst through the water. The shockwaves blew back the short trainer as he spiraled several times until he plopped with his other friend, colliding head-first. Being wet and the other crackling electricity, they both were zapped and buzzed into a twitching mess.

Joey held his hand up, and Dereece clapped it.

Ron looked back, his face showing sheer annoyance. "Gnnngh, idiots!" he turned back toward the others. "You'll pay for this! Misdreavus!" he waited for an answer…but didn't get one. "Misdreavus?"

The ghost was sniffing the air, drawn towards Heracross specifically. The others watched on as the aromatic scent of his honey-soaked face was enchanting her somewhat. It left her completely open.

Heracross looked back at Dereece to see what they should do, but all Dereece did was shrug. Finding an idea, Heracross stuck the last remainders of the golden Honey out, which Misdreavus peered into. Suddenly he raised it overhead and dunked the jar onto her. The insect backed away quickly as Misdreavus shrilled panicking cries that were muffled by globs of Honey stuck to her.

Dereece blinked, unsure of what to make of it. "Well…that's one way I guess."

Seeing his Misdreavus in peril, Ron gritted his teeth. His plan was completely ruined. He reached for a Poke Ball. "I gotta get out of here…"

Finding a quick route, Minerva threw her Poke Ball. "Bagon, Crunch!" The Poke Ball flung open, with Bagon in midair. He growled as he dove onto the halted Misdreavus, fangs glowing bright. He snapped down hard, creating a solid white burst that ruptured the air.

As Bagon landed softly, he, as well as everyone else, watched Misdreavus fly back into Ron. The impact shattered the Honey jar to glass. As he fell on his back, his shirt and face were coated in raw, sticky Honey that was smeared all over his and his Misdreavus' faces.

"Uuugh…who caught the number of that…" He heard distant rumbling from above. With Honey-filled vision, he couldn't make note of the black clouds crackling lightning. "What the hell?! Where-GAH! Honey in the eyes, damnit!" He was wiping them with his wrist, but it wasn't working.

Sliding his heel for space, Shou was strumming away with an invigorated sneer. "Time for your last encore! Jolteon…" He pointed his guitar's end at the three. "Thunder!"

Joltwon's body crackled in large amount of static and raised his head. With a howl at the chorus' shrilling cries, a massive lightning bolt rained down, striking the spot where the Dark Guild members were lying. Their screams were muted by the discharge of static flaring all around. By the time the lightning ceased, the pressure of the attack left a small indent in the cement where they laid, charred and barely mobile.

The music ended, and Shou withdrew his instrument as the pick glided across the strings. "And that's a wrap."

Jolteon sped to his side, looking proud of his achievements. "Yeahnowthatwasablastseriously!" he yammered. "Let'sdothatagain!"

Dereece swatdropped. 'Wow. And here I thought Kevin's Raticate had energy issues.'

Surprising enough, despite the amount of voltage he was struck with, Ron was stirring. He sat up as the Honey that drenched his face was all crusty and hard due to the lightning frying it. He had a hard time wiping it away, especially when he moved his forearm he felt the nerves ache.

"So…what was it you were again?"

Ron's ears twitched. Slowly looking up, his blurred vision caught the dark visage of the sinister Minerva. Green orbs surrounded her hands as her Bagon opened his maw, dragonfire stirring inside. If it weren't for the Honey his face would be shown pale.

He tried scooting away. "Uh, n-now wait a sec. We can work something out! Uh…please?" His desperate whimper at the end fell on deaf ears. He gulped as Minerva raised her arms.

"I RAGH!"

The air went white as spatial explosions were mixed with dragonfire. Ron's screams fell mute as the eruptions blasted over the music Shou was playing. The eruptions shook the back of the guild hall that some almost mistook it for fireworks. The others quietly watched in awe and slight worry as she was waking explosions at an over excessive rate.

"Wow, she's…eh…" Joey flinched, hearing a loud cry inside the explosions.

"Yeah…ouch…" Dereece gulped, seeing a silhouette twitch violently inside.

Duncan held a straight face the whole way through. He eyeballed Shou as his Jolteon sped back to his side. His gaze sharpened on his back as Ron and his lackeys suffered from Minerva's wrath.


Sophie had a long-standing look of remorse on her face. Everything up to recently has been nothing short of a blur. If she wasn't confused before, then knowing she had a cousin of all relatives had to make her delirious. It was almost too critical to believe. Araquanid and Kadabra sat themselves on both ends of Sophie to keep an eye on the so-called relative of hers; Araquanid especially looked unkind.

Nic, Erza, and Vanessa chose to take their company elsewhere. They looked at each other and walked out the door towards the backyard. What they were doing didn't matter. What mattered at the moment, was how Sophie was going to reconnect.

After what felt like an eternity of twiddling her thumbs, Sophie gulped as she looked towards Rufus. "So, let me get this straight…" she started. "You're…my cousin?"

Rufus sat upright in the seat directly across from her, his massive hat unable to take away the calm but sad expression he bared. "Yes. Inexplicably so. I understand your skepticism, if that's a start."

Sophie's gaze fell towards her thighs. "Um…honestly, I'm not sure where I should start."

"Take all the time you need. I've took all of today off so I can help."

Sophie bit her lower lip at trying to gather a thought. Kadabra moved hastily to her side to support her. "Um, suppose we can start somewhere like…yes. There. Like how you were aware of this matter? I presume it was Nic and Erza perhaps?"

Rufus tipped his cap. "Yes. Though I have to admit their word choices were rather…rushed." Rufus certainly can't say it was the worst handwriting it seems. He still remembered reading Erza's letter about Bellona a while back. The memory still gave him nightmares to this day.

"What did they tell you?" Sophie asked, she sounded a little worried to be true.

"Everything. From your adventure in Seven, to where you sacrificed your old life for your friends." He morosely frowned. "As a fellow Memory-Make Mage, I would be appalled to see such talent wasted." He lowered his head in guilt. "But…as much as memories mean to me, I have no say in the matter."

Sophie nervously glanced away bashfully. "So then…are you saying that you can help me?"

Rufus nodded. He stood up and started for her. Araquanid impeded their path and hissed menacingly at Sophie. Suffice to say that his behavior was justified.

"Stand down Araquanid." Kadabra insisted. "Let them meet."

Araquanid still refused to budge. Finneon maneuvered closer to his eye. "Please, listen to Kadabra. At the least consider Sophie. We know you mean well, but please…relax."

"Well, I…" He was stuttering on what to say. He knew that even his own actions were justified. He was protecting Sophie, more so than ever. He looked back at her to see her green eyes giving him an insecure look. He thought about it for a moment and ultimately chose to step away…though his glare on Rufus was as hard a steel.

Rufus heeded the warning glare from the giant spider. "Right, I'll be quick." He walked over and leaned to Sophie's eye level. The two locked eyes – their shapes almost completely identical. They could really tell they were cousins. "Now Sophie, be very still." He reached for her forehead, the palm glowing softly. He started channeling energy into Sophie's head.

Her Pokémon watched anxiously as chains of memories flourished around Sophie and Rufus. They came a small dome of glowing chains that went on endlessly in repeated loops as Rufus' memories were looking into Sophie's. With his eyes shut he couldn't make out much, until the magic around them vanished into thin air.

He stepped back, his eyes calmly opening again. "…so it really is true." He started. "You truly don't remember a thing. Normally, if one has amnesia, I can use my Memory-Make to enter their subconscious and bring them out. But you…it was like all the past memories you had were unburied and stripped away completely."

Sophie looked down again, this time with a look that spelled defeat. She was sure this time that even Memory-Make, her own kind of magic, would be of some use to helping her understand what kind of a person she was. If this didn't do the trick, she didn't even know what would anymore.

Kadabra moved his open claw to Sophie's forearm to help take some pressure off. "It will be alright, Sophie. I'm sure of it." He optimistically insisted.

Sophie didn't seem so sure. "Well…thanks anyway."

Rufus took his seat once more. "I do apologize once again." He looked over towards her Pokémon, seeing how the water spider and the fish were stuck inside the same bubble. He saw how tentative her Kadabra was being. If anything, something about this ensemble left Rufus curious. "But, I still suppose we can make this work."

"Really?' Sophie looked up to him, but she soon faltered in what he meant. "Oh…you mean orally, don't you?"

He nodded. "Yes. If you can't remember, then at the very least, I can sedate what questions you might have." He crossed his right leg over his leg, putting a hand to his chin. "So, to what wonders you have?"

Sophie didn't have to think hard about her first rounds of questions. She jumped to the first almost immediately. "What year was I born?"

Rufus tipped his cap. "You were born April 2nd, X768."

Sophie's eyes widened. X768? Really? When she looked at her voluptuous frame, she didn't feel 25. Maybe she just appealed very young in the genes or something. Nevertheless, she rebounded for the next volley of questions. "Okay…so, where did come from? Where was I born?"

Rufus raised his chin, finding the right kind of words imaginable. "Let's see…from what I seem to recall, your mother and father were traveling merchants. You weren't born in a specific home town, nor did you settle in your childhood."

Sophie looked down, considering his words. "So I was a merchant's daughter…" She squinted to see what could come up, but the efforts were fruitless. "So, do you know anything about my mother? Or father perhaps?"

"It's been far too long to be sure. You see, my side of the family and your own came to the Fiore Library quite frequently. So, from those visits…I'd say I wouldn't know them any better." He closed his eyes as something popped up. "But now that I think about it, I believe that your parents were given a divorce."

"A divorce?" Sophie gasped. "So then…they're not together anymore then."

Rufus tipped his hat. "I'm sorry."

She balled her fists, not willing to give up her trail so easily. Her fixation on Rufus hardened. "Tell me, where are they? Anything you have on them would be just fine. Just name it."

Rufus could hear the plea in her voice. Nevertheless, he made sure to remain as calm and composed as his etiquette allowed. "Well…" he crossed his left leg over his right this time. "Your mother chose to settle down in a small village just southwest of Fiore. As for the precise location, I'll have to look not that. Like I said, I'm not so in-tune with family as you are…or were, perhaps."

Sophie gulped. There was still one more part to her question. "And of my father?"

Rufus went silent. The air around them turned to a quiet, eerie domain filled with nerves crawling. The anticipation in the air quickly turned to Rufus as a time to speak.

"I'm sorry, Sophie. I hate to be the one to bear this in mind, but…your father died, about three years ago."

Sophie's heart stopped for a glimpse of a second. She felt like something used Ice Beam and froze her from the inside out. Kadabra gripped her forearm tighter, but she didn't feel it. All she felt was a load of grief as her gaze turned hollow at her thighs. She tried to find the right words to speak, but nothing was coming out but soft breathing.

"Your father was on a mountain trail. It was raining, as I recall, and the area that he embarked in had a large landslide. They only found him a week after…"

Sophie closed her eyes, trying her best to power through this. Once calmed, she exhaled a heavy sigh. "I…I see…" she murmured.

"Cousin." Rufus sincerely frowned. "I truly am sorry."

Rather than get another lash of questions, like how he didn't say something sooner, or told her a while back, Sophie just looked away, a sad frown on her pink lips. "It's fine, really." Her voice cracked; she powered on. "It wasn't your fault. I'm…sure there's a lot of questions that you're expecting from me right now, huh?"

Rufus folded his fingers, his posture straightening. "Take all the time you'll need…I'm not going anywhere." He looked down. "And besides, I need to make up for my mistakes."

This caused Sophie to blink. Mistakes? Did he do something wrong that put her in a bad spot? She found her grief jumping to curiosity remarkably fast. "What happened?"

"Recall how I said we'd meet up at the library. Well to tell the truth, as we exploited the same magic, we found ourselves at different ends of the spectrum. I found it easier to use my Memory-Make to forget irrelevance. But you used your bitter memories and made yourself stronger. You…seemed to have been more open than I was. And it wasn't far long until you've shown me what it means that you should remember everything that you can, than just take them for granted…" his face faltered. "It's bitterly ironic."

Sophie managed a meek chuckle. "Well, when you put it that way…"

Once again, another awkward silence fell around them. The tension seemed less chilled with the conversation they were having. Sophie found herself more at ease in the last thirty seconds than she has been the past three days. At least she wasn't completely hopeless.

"Rufus…" She earned her cousin's intrigued glance once again. "I don't mean to be rude, but…do you think…that you can help me with my magic?"

Rather than show surprise, Rufus retained calm. He chuckled as he stood up. "Why of course…" he reached his hand out, unknowingly earning a sharp glare from Araquanid. He smiled through it. "As I seem to recall, that's what family is for, right?"

For the first time all day, Sophie's smile was as bright as the sun outside. There was hope for her after all…just one step at a time. She generously accepted his handshake.

"Very well. So, for starters, let's look at your magic. Your magic and mine are known as Memory-Make…"

As Rufus began his teachings and possible rounds of questions later on from his cousin, Nic, Erza, and Vanessa were outside the window, with small grins on their faces. Some matters are best left to family alone.


Outside of Sabertooth, a couple of Rune Knights were keeping an eye on the three men they hauled away. Electric fields prevented Misdreavus and Drowzee from moving as the Magnemite around them floated them away. They had to use a lot of resources to get Quagsire's slimy body to get moving with them. But once they were carried away, Sabertooth was back to being itself.

"Milady, are you sure you're alright?" Sting questioned.

Minerva apologetically nodded, looking more relaxed than before. "Yes, I'm fine. You don't have to worry about me right now." She knew from heart that Sting was totally gonna flip off that statement, but she was content. She turned towards Shou. "And for you, I…" She rubbed her arm, looking down guiltily. "I…want to apologize, for acting the way that I did earlier. I was just being selfish."

"It's no problem." Shou dismissed. "I understand. If my songs are a big problem for you, I'll just find some other genres."

Minerva shook her head. "There's no need. In fact, I wouldn't mind having a song played for me sometime…" her eyelids lowered. "Just make sure it's nothing rather soft."

Shou gave her a thumbs up. "Deal." He turned towards Sting. "You don't mind if I continue?"

Sting nodded. "Sure, be our guest."

"Just a minute."

The Freaks earned the attention of everyone in the building. Joey and Dereece looked towards their left to see Duncan glaring daggers at Shou. The audience around them stepped back as the Trainer paced towards Shou.

Joey raised a brow. "Um, Duncan…?"

The Trainer stopped five feet away from Shou. The two were in the center of the guild hall with the rest giving vague but understandable looks. They could feel a change in the atmosphere again.

"You're Duncan, aren't you?" Shou said with an epiphany. "Yeah, I remember you. You were at the conference back in April and challenged Nic to a battle. You looking for something?"

He waited for a response, thinking it was a song request. However, the look in his eyes dismissed the thoughts of his tunes. He picked up on the rivaled leer he was given.

"Tell me." Duncan started. "You're a Pokémon Trainer, aren't you?"

Everyone's eyes widened as the room went dead silent once more. Lector and Frosch stared with their eyes glued in surprise. If Duskull had legs, they could've given out, but instead he slumped on Rogue's shoulder. Minerva's breath hitched as she sharply turned at the accused.

Joey and Dereece exchanged awkward glances. Dereece stepped forward. "Uh, Duncan, what are you doing?"

After a long while, Shou surprisingly smirked. "What gave that away?"

"That picture you had in your apartment was a dead giveaway. The background was with a large Ferris Wheel, which is popular as a tourist site to those in Nimbasa City, in the Unova Region." His brow furrowed. "And judging from the Pokémon in that picture, you have to have participated in the Unova League at least once…am I right?"

Shou had a long, exasperated sigh. His brows went up as his arms raised over his head like a surrender. "You got me. Right on the money. I'm actually surprised you knew about that."

"Wait…" Lector's eyes widened. "So he really is another Pokémon Trainer?!"

"Fro thinks so, too." Frosch replied absent-mindedly.

There were small discussions between some of the Sabertooth mages inside. They looked at the scene with some surprise, but more so, they showed genuine curiosity. Seeing Duncan and Shou face to face was another matter all aside from the concert and auditions played out.

"So tell me, how far in did you get into the Unova League?" Duncan continued his round of questions.

Shou lowered his arms, holding his dangling guitar in place. "I made it to the top 64 out of 512. About nine months ago." He started. "After the loss, I went back home to Nimbasa City and went back to practicing on my music that I picked up on my journey-"

"I didn't ask about that." Duncan stated. His tone was cold, and serious to where even an Ice-type could be given chills. "If you've made it that far in, then that means you must have some skills…" he maliciously smirked. "And you know what happened when two Trainers meet eyes."

He smirked at what's to come. "This should be good."


Outside of Sabertooth, there was a gathering of everyone from inside that was moved outside. A few of the townsfolk had also gathered for the commotion, either for their own chance to kill time or they wanted to see an actual battle between Trainers.

"Wow, just look at all the people here to see this." Yukino looked left and right repeatedly. Only the sounds of Jewel clanging made her look away. "Big sis? What are you doing?"

Sorano looked at the remaining Jewel she had in hand and held her head high, winking. "What's it look like?" She turned towards Joey. "Double or nothing?"

Joey challenged Sorano with his own evil smirk. "Oh, sister, you are so on!" He snapped his fingers, which the sac from Sorano's earlier winnings stood. "And when Duncan wins, we'll be walking away millionaires!"

Sorano leaned into his face, smirking arrogantly. "Oh, we'll see about that. Because last I checked, he flopped against Nic."

Joey got into her face, pointing up her chin. "OH~! You just went there! Girl! Nobody ain't worth it to Nic-senpai! Now Duncan may not be like him, but he's gotten stronger! But now it's triple, for Nic-senapi!"

As the two had static of their auras zapping at each other, Yukino and Dereece sighed. "Well at least they got the spirit." Dereece grimaced. Yukino nodded in agreement.

Frosch jumped to Rogue's height. "Good luck out there!"

"This is certain to be an interesting match." Rogue commented. "Duskull, be sure to pay attention."

Duskull, who stood beside him, moved his arms in a ghastly manner. "As you~ insi~~st." He wailed.

"Yo, Sting. You psyched or what?" Lector asked, standing in front of Sting.

The Master stood with his Druddigon, looking calm and casual. His blue eyes were observing both contenders like a hawk and a squirrel. "Honestly, yeah. I've never seen two actual Trainers battle before/ Minerva, what was it when you went? Minerva?" He looked over, seeing her fixed on Shou. "Hey, you okay?"

The Territory Mage was observing Shou intently. She already knew Duncan was capable, but even from that earlier blast there was some power picked with his Jolteon. Not only that, but the way he acted so calm doesn't just come form out o the blue. This intrigued her even more.

On the left side of the battlefield, Shou held his guitar as he glared at Duncan. "So, how do you want to do this?"

"A 3-on-3 battle." Duncan suggested. "No substitutions. Best two out of 3 is declared the winner."

Shou plucked with his guitar pick. "Deal." He reached for his guitar picks on the end and dislodged a Poke Ball wedged on one of the six pegs. Duncan reached into his pocket, preparing for his choice.

Flashes of his one-sided battle with Nic came to his mind. He thought back to his battle with Vanessa. Seeing his downfalls on both left a nasty chord on him that gave him an incentive. His fixation darkened on Shou. 'I have to win.' He pulled out the capsule, revealing an Ultra Ball. 'No excuses. I'm gonna get to their level, and I'll gauge any who I need to see how close I am to them!'

"Let's get it on out there!" Orga shouted, pointing ahead with one hand and the other holding the mic. "Now let's see a hell of a scuffle!"

"Alright, go!" Shou threw his Poke Ball.

"Magmortar, front and center!" Duncan sideswiped the Ultra Ball.

Both capsules opened at the same time. Standing in front of Duncan was Magmortar, who uncrossed his folded claws and huffed weakly. Meanwhile, in front of Shou, it was a green serpentine Pokémon, the same one in the picture. His huge, vine-like tail was whipped around as he raised his head high, looking at his opponent.

"Looks like Duncan's using Magmortar first." Joey observed. "But, is his opponent…a Serperior?"

Dereece shook his head. "This isn't too good for Shou. Fire-types have a serious advantage over Grass-types. Duncan sure isn't pulling any fast ones." He blinked at what he said. "Er, scratch that. He never does. Sorry."

Despite his earlier confidence, Joey started observing on a more serious eye. It was time. He kept an eye on Duncan as his cold eyes seared into the roaring start of the fight. But the first move was quickly seized by Shou.

"Alright, use Nasty Plot!"

Serperior nodded. "With pleasure, Master." He hissed, quite seductively at that. His body lowered as question marks appeared over him, replaced by a punctuation point. They vanished a sharp red aura showed a Special Attack climb.

Duncan swiped his arm to the side. "Use Flamethrower!" On command, Magmortar retracted his claws to show his arm's fire cannons. They aimed at Serperior and blasted searing blasts of ire that raced across the ground towards him.

"Dodge that!"

Hearing Shou, Serperior jumped in time over the explosion of fire beneath. The ruptures of flames spread near the audience, who backed away to avoid any of the char. Rogue had to shield Frosch with his cape.

Shou strum his guitar with an echo. "Time for a change of notes! Use Torment!" As Serperior fell, he was suspended briefly in the air as he expelled a vicious yell at Magmortar. Magmortar looked up as a dark aura momentarily flared up around him. He stepped back, his cannon arms returning to being claws.

"What's that?" Sting questioned.

"It's a move where a Pokémon can't use the same attack twice in a row." Dereece explained. "Now Magmortar can't use Flamethrower until the attack after."

Duncan eyed his adversary carefully as Serperior was coming down. From the curves in his lips, his large red eyes outlined red. He took it as a bad omen.

Shou strung his chords in a rift. "Alright, use Night Daze!"

Joey and Dereece gasped in shock. They didn't see that coming, as Serperior came down, enveloped in crimson energy. When he landed, the dust cloud broke apart by an expanding dark crimson forcefield that pulsed in all directions. Magmortar shielded using hos forearms, but the increase from Nasty Plot made him slide backwards. He almost fell over if not for his right heel stepping back when it did.

Joey was still overshadowed in his own shock from that move. "Night Daze…?" he murmured low. "But wait, we played the games. Serperior can't know that move…" his eyes widened. "Unless…"

He and Dereece turned towards the other. Dereece blinked. "Captain, you're not thinking…"

"Punishment!" Serperior's tail glowed purple as he raced for Magmortar. The Blast Pokémon uncovered and showed a menacing face that matched his Trainer's demeanor.

"Clear Smog!"

Shou's eyes widened at the attack called. Before he could tell his Serperior to stop, Magmortar's right arm turned into a cannon again and expelled a blast of white smoke. The cloud was too fast to dodge and Serperior ended up stuck in it. He could feel the force even sliding him back some as the smoke blew away his stat increases.

The setback showed a grin on Shou. Minerva took notice and looked curiously out at the smoke clearing.

"Look! Something's happening!" Lector pointed towards the dissipating smoke. "Something's strange about him!"

Everyone's eyes widened as they watched the smoke blow away not just the stat changes, but also crimson sparkles. The visage of Serperior was replaced by something else fading in his place. Instead of a snake, it was a humanoid foxlike creature with a massive red mane. She had red-tipped claws and light blue eyes that was brought out by her dark gray fur.

Duncan smirked. "So now it all makes sense. Figures."

Orga blinked repeatedly out of lack of wits. "What just happened? Did he switch Pokémon just now?"

"No. That wasn't his Serperior battling just now." Dereece pointed out. "That was a Zoroark. Now it all makes sense, why it could use moves like that."

Joey reached back and pulled out his PokeDex. Sorano and Yukino peered over his shoulder as the database revealed the Zoroark icon.

"Zoroark, the Illusion Fox Pokémon. It doesn't just transform itself – it also has the power to make hundreds of people see its illusions."

Hearing this statement made Sorano skeptically cringe. "Illusions? But that's Macbeth's thing! Wow, cheaters."

Yukino ushered to her defense. "Um, big sis, I think it might be fair. Right?" she looked towards Dereece and Joey for confirmation. To her relief they nodded.

"Yeah, Zoroark are really tricky." Joey explained, his attention went back to Duncan and Shou's battle. "They have this ability that allows them to turn into the party's last Pokémon in line. Duncan's got himself one crafty opponent."

Facing Magmortar, Zoroark glared with a sneer. "Hmph, oh well." Her tone of voice was low, but sly no less. "Seems they found me out. And I was having so much fun." She playfully winked back at Shou. He didn't seem to care as he plucked at his guitar.

"Well, looks like we'll have to work with this song." He aimed his guitar at Magmortar. "You got this, Zoroark. Use Punishment!" Continuing her attack from before, Zoroark charged with purple energy around her arms. She closed in on Magmortar as he brought his right arm back, with claws retracting.

"Not yet…" Duncan waited for the right time. When Zoroark brought her arm back, he found his opening. "Thunder Punch!" Magmortar followed the command with gusto. He launched his appendage ahead with electricity flowing at the base. Purple and lightning flashed between them as they dominated for power. A few seconds in their collision and they both stepped back.

Magmortar stretched his footing for a better reaction timing, and Zoroark sneered. However, electricity crackled around her, causing her knees to go numb. Shou looked just as stunned, though quite not literally speaking.

"Thunder Punch's paralysis effect." Joey realized.

"Zoroark, try to stand up!" Shou encouraged. He watched as his fox was trying to fight the nerves jolting through her veins. That looked like it hurt. He balled his fists. 'I didn't think it'd go like this so quickly. I need to step up my game, and fast!'

Rather than go on about the commentary, Duncan pointed an index finger towards the sun. "Sunny Day!" Magmortar reached up overhead. He unleashed a small cry as he expelled orange rings that expanded into the sky. The heat coming from him intensified from the waves. When they were expelled, the atmosphere suddenly got much brighter. The sunlight got harsh to where Orga and Dobengal that to squint when peering upward.

Shou reached forward. "Nasty Plot!" Once more, question marks scrambled over Zoroark's head as she formulated a crude tactic. As she snarled, she licked her lips in anticipation. Her red aura shadowed over her body once more.

"Looks like they're about to end this thing." Dereece worried.

"Flamethrower!"

"Night Daze!"

A dark and crimson shockwave soared across the battlefield to stop a vicious blast roaring fire. The two forces collided in the center, expelling heat and dazing darkness in all directions. Everyone had to cover up again as the shockwaves threatened to blow them off their feet.

With a fresh layer of smoke overshadowing the battlefield, Shou was still able to make out his Zoroark. With desperation in his eyes, he took the initiative. "Punishment!"

Zoroark smirked. Using her keen sense of smell and hearing, she could hear the crackling of flames dead ahead. She dashed for the other side of the smoke cloud with a purple arm reeled back to strike. When she reached the other side, her wake severed the smoke, but their opponent was unable to bear his face, much to Shou and Zoroark's surprise.

Duncan smirked. "Thunder Punch!"

Hearing crackling lightning, Zoroark's fur stood on end as she slowly turned skywards. She only caught a glimpse of Magmortar as he came crashing down with a lightning fist into her cheek. The impact felt like a lead weight that sent her packing into the ground. Any normal person would've felt their cheekbones crack from that unpleasant strike.

"Zoroark!" Shou shouted in worry.

Zoroark's vision was hazy from that wind shot. She used an arm to subconsciously support herself as she tried standing. The paralysis in her body made her stop at her knees and cringe. She was so dazed she barely had the mind to notice the cannon pointed directly at her face.

Magmortar's huge lips formed a smirk. "Heh…"

"Flamethrower!"

Magmortar used one arm to fire a searing point-blank blast of molten fire that Zoroark was unable to escape. The blast encompassed a large area thanks to the weather effects made. The added heat of the attack almost seared some clothing as it shot pass Shou's stunned expression into the building not far behind them. The blast wave turned to smoke that trailed back towards Magmortar, who lifted his arm cannon and blew into it, dispelling it.

Shou raced over towards the building. Everyone made way for him as he stared at his Zoroark wedged into the building. Her fur was just as charred at the building's cement blocks. Her eyes were swirls as she gagged air that was blown out of her.

"Is she…down?" Lector cringed. He was so startled that he almost choked on his words.

"Fro thinks so, too." Frosch responded, seemingly calmer than his counterpart.

Shou blinked repeatedly until he realized Zoroark was unable to battle. His shoulders slumped as he bent down, pulling out her Poke Ball. "Zoroark, thanks. Get some rest." He recalled his Dark-type, leaving a Zoark-shaped crater in the wall as he walked back to his starting point.

Without a word of praise, Duncan returned Magmortar to his Ultra Ball. He went ahead and pulled out a Poke Ball to start the next round.

"Looks like Duncan won that round." Dereece commented. He looked towards Joey and Sorano, seeing one having a prideful smirk, and another puffing cheeks. It's obvious who was pleased and who was sour.

"I wonder who they'll use now?" Yukino questioned.

As before, Minerva kept her arms crossed as she spectated in silence. She was keeping an eye on Shou as he pulled out another Poke Ball from another pick. She was replaying what she saw in her head. Shou definitely has some measure of skill, that's a given. Still…

"Excadrill, you're up!"

"Gastrodon, start!"

The Poke Balls opened, summoning their choices to battle. On Duncan's side was his Gastrodon, who blinked passively. On Shou's side, it was a large mole-like Pokémon with large metal claws and dark brown body, with red diagonal spots that, when spun, they would make a red ring. On top of the head, Excadrill had a huge headpiece that resembled a claw.

"An Excadrill, huh?" Joey reached for his PokeDex once again. Sorano and a few others peered over his shoulder to see. He almost felt uncomfortable with so many crowded around him.

"Excadrill, the Subterrene Pokémon. It can help in tunnel construction. Its drill has evolved into steel strong enough to bore through iron plates."

"A Ground/Steel-type…" Dereece folded his arms again. "Shou's not being given any sucker punches. Gastrodon's Water/Ground. He's off to a poor matchup." He did recall for a moment how Excadrill normally had incredible Speed and Attack. And Gastrodon wasn't that fast. He'll have to be mindful.

Excadrill's steel claws spread apart, his glare set on Gastrodon. "Well now, you'd be my opponent?" he spoke in an old Western accent. "Yer being best prepared. I'm 'bout to bring the ground right up beneath yer hide!"

Shou strum his guitar with a harsh rift. "Excadrill, Drill Run!"

"Can do, partner!" Excadrill folded in his claws with his drill to make an even bigger drill. Many of the Sabertooth mages were stunned as Excadrill started rotating and barreled after Gastrodon like a spinning missile.

Duncan swiped his arm to the side. "Gastrodon, Body Slam!" Gastrodon jumped into the air over Excadrill as he spun below. With the momentum against him, everyone watching looked stunned as Gastrodon came down like a slimy parachute onto Excadrill. His force from the fall anchored the mole on his stomach. Looking up at the blaring sunlight that was harsh.

"Excadrill!" Shou shouted. He watched his armored mole try to break away from Gastrodon's slimy hold, but the sea slug had a lot of weight beneath him. More so, he was pinned so he couldn't use his claws.

"Just because you've made it to the Top 64 in your league, doesn't make you the best." Duncan retorted. "There's a difference in skills between Trainers. Either you learn or you don't." he raised his head, domineering over his foe's pitiful state. "Unlike you, I don't just take breaks so I can enjoy myself. Just as you're committed to music, I am to making sure that my Pokémon know how to react, when to react, and execute whatever needed."

Shou furrowed his brow. Duncan sounded very serious to where he couldn't find a rebuttal. His Excadrill's situation was looking bleak right from the get-go. He and everyone noticed how the sunlight was starting to wane away back to normal.

"The sunlight's going out." Lector realized. He could look up and not squint anymore. "Boy, that's crazy."

"Sunny Day's effects ended." Joey observed, his brow furrowing. "Which means…nothing's holding back Gastrodon's Water-type attacks."

Duncan gleamed. "Water Pulse!" Gastrodon opened his maw, charging up a sphere of water in the center. He aimed the sphere directly in Excadrill's face as the humidity around them increased around it.

At the last second, Shou punched forward. "Excadrill, Horn Drill!"

Gastrodon launched the hemisphere at point-blank into Excadrill's horn. At the impact, the horn suddenly glowed and lengthened, becoming slightly bigger and rotated. It dispelled all the sprays of water and left a soaked earth around him. Duncan retained his calm as his Gastrodon was forced to get off to avoid the rotating horn.

"Horn Drill…" Dereece awed. Of all the moves to be careful of, it had to be that one. He knew the risks of that attack; and by the look on Joey's face, he did too.

"I see, so that's your little ace then." Duncan flatly stated. "…in that case, use Ice Beam!" Gastrodon obliged and created an orb of ice-like energy that shot three chilling beams dead ahead. On instinct, Excadrill jumped out of the way as the attack froze up the ground where he stood.

Excadrill turned ahead, scowling. "Partner, I reckon we'd fasten down these guys. Any surgessts?"

"Hang tight, Excadrill!" Shou started another rift. It looked like the music was helping him think some. His glare fastened. "Alright, rock'em with Metal Claw!"

Excadrill smirked. "Now we're talking!" His massive steel claws turned solid iron. He raced after Gastrodon as he fired more ice. With the metal and his speed, he was literally slicing through the ice and started gaining ground towards the sea slug. Before he knew it, he reeled his claw back and swiped, grazing Gastrodon's stomach.

"Muddy Water!" Duncan ordered.

Excadrill's eyes widened and his sharp wits got the better of his shock. He jumped back as a typhoon of swirling brown water erupted into a wave that pushed in his direction. He realized the tsunami of brown water was about to come down and held his ground.

"Metal Claw!" Shou shouted. His claws still metal, Excadrill used his brute force and cleaved straight through the tsunami heading his way. The murky wave split in two, the waves turning to groundwater that everyone watched dissolve into the ground with sincere surprise on their faces.

Joey slumped forward, eyes bugged out. "Wow…did not see that coming."

Gastrodon craned his head around. "There is still more for you!" he assured.

Excadrill smirked in bold confidence. "Be reckon this is where things get interesting. Partner!"

Shou strum his guitar loudly. "On it! Excadrill, Drill Run!" His Excadrill folded his claws and rotated like a drill towards Gastrodon.

"Use Ice Beam!" Gastrodon created another orb of icy energy that shot rays of ice at the drill coming for him. The ice blast met the spiraling mole in the center, managing to actually slow him down until it was enough to freeze him in place. The frozen mole stayed put in the middle of the battlefield as Gastrodon charged up a ball of water.

"End it! Water Pulse!" Gastrodon craned his head around and cried out, blowing the sphere in Excadrill's direction.

Shou balled his fist and punched out. "No you don't…Excadrill! I know you can hear me in there!" he encouraged. "Break free, use Metal Claw!"

The ice shuddered as the sphere of water was drawing near. Inside, Excadrill was seen struggling just as the sphere reached his point of impact. An eruption of ice and mist spouted everywhere, making it hard for anyone to see what was happening. Lector used his paws to stop small chunks from pelting his face. Minerva remained calm, but her eyes were slightly wide at the sight.

When the mist cleared, it revealed Excadrill. He was on a knee, but his claws were solid metal. He used the tips as support after using what strength he had previously to break free and slice that Water Pulse. Although he was able to reduce the damage, he looked like he was ready for a dirtnap.

"He survived!" Lector gasped.

Yukino furrowed her brow. "…but where'd Gastrodon go?" A shadow appeared above everyone, making her look up. "Huh?"

They all looked towards the sky, seeing something fall at an alarming rate. Shou and Excadrill glanced up as in the sunlight, Gastrodon was sailing down, his blue slime flapping like a parachute.

"Body Slam!" Duncan ordered. Gastrodon cried out as he increased his falling speed, driving himself towards Excadrill.

With his timing barely there, Shou only had a few seconds. This last attack had to count. "Horn Drill!"

Gastrodon barreled down as Excadrill raised his horn as it extended and spun like an actual drill. The sea slug and the mole lunged at each other in midair. Time gradually slowed down for everyone as Gastrodon was blanketing over Excadrill from the sun. With his momentum, it looked like it…

But they couldn't be anymore wrong.

With an extra burst of speed, Excadrill roared as he jutted and pierced his spinning drill directly into Gastrodon's belly. The impact caused a severe rotation around the slug's stomach that pulled him into a rotation that followed Excadrill's. The mole aimed down towards the ground and darted Gastrodon into it, creating an explosion of dust.

Everyone's shock was spelled all over their faces; Minerva's included. When the dust cleared, Excadrill backpedaled and huffed as he saw Gastrodon in a crater in the ground, created from the force of the horn's impact. His eyes were swirls, indicating he was unable to continue.

Without another word, Duncan returned Gastrodon to his Poke Ball. He looked at it with annoyance. "Your reaction time was too slow." He scolded.

Sorano beamed proudly in Joey's face. "Ha!" She pointed at his nose. "Looks like that shoe is on the other foot, isn't, partybutt?" She started nudging his shoulder with her elbow. She snickered mockingly at the thought of extra jewel to use.

Yukino sighed in relief. "That actually had me nervous there."

"Yeah, no kidding." Sting commented, seeing Excadrill being praised by Shou. "Those guys used their speed to their advantage that time. That's what decided the battle. If they had been a second behind, the battle would've ended already."

"And now it's to the last battle to decide it." Rogue analyzed. "I imagine this is where they pull out the stops."

Shou pulled out his Poke Ball and aimed it at Excadrill. "Excadrill, take a rest." The mole looked back and was withdrawn from battle. Shou looked at the Poke Ball proudly. "You earned the rest." He looked at Duncan, who had his last Poke Ball set. "Well, this is it. You ready?"

Duncan's glare was fixated in determination. "Funny? I thought you were."

His attitude didn't deter him as he pulled his Poke Ball out. At the same time, both contenders threw them out over their heads.

"Serperior, rock'em solid!"

"Torterra, start!"

Both energies transformed into Pokémon. For Shou, it was Serperior – the real one. He glared ahead with a towering gaze. "Ready when asked." He coolly stated. He definitely wasn't an illusion if he spoke that confidently.

On Duncan's end, Torterra's four limbs planted on the ground causing a slight tremor. He craned his neck around and roared out to the skies, scaring away any birds that were flying overhead.

Joey's eyes widened again at the matchup. "It's Torterra against Serperior people! Look alive!" He pulled his PokeDex out, making sure it was the real one. To his relief, the icon showed.

"Serperior, the Regal Pokémon. It only gives its all against strong opponents who are not fazed by the glare from Serperior's noble eyes."

"So that's the real Serperior." Sting noted, his nose picking up a rather modest yet minty scent from the creature. "Yeah, definitely. And it looks strong." He looked over to Druddigon, who held a high guard at the sight of the creature's regal glare.

"So if these two are their strongest, then that will also mean this is what will decide the battle." Rogue revealed.

"Go, Shou~! Win me some bucks!" Sorano cheered loudly, waving her arm around.

"Duncan. Show him who's boss!" Joey encouraged. He and Sorano looked at each other and sharply stared daggers of opposition.

Dereece ignored their little spat and reached for Boombox. "Alright, I know what this needs." He sat Boombox down in front of them and scrolled through the system's songs. "Sure Shou wouldn't mind one of his tunes play, do you?"

Shou smirked. "Go ahead."

Dereece used a spare auxiliary chord that was dangling besides Shu's laptop. He connected it to Boombox and selected one of the more battle-related themes for the battle. As Serperior's head was held high, looking down on Torterra in not just height, but stature, the red eyes of the continental tortoise showed anything but cowardice.

'So this is his strongest.' Duncan glared hard, his mind flashing back to Nic and Vanessa. This was the goal he needed to get at. 'No holding back!' He reached out. "Torterra!"

"Ready!" The gargantuan beast raised his right front leg, slamming it into the ground to cause everyone to almost jump off the ground.

"Serperior!" Shou began shredding his guitar up the shaft, his serpent adjusting himself for combat.

Minerva looked on as she watched the battle press onto the last match. Strangely enough, she was smiling.

Dereece took a deep breath as he picked a nice theme and went with it.

[Solgaleo/Lunala Battle Theme]

A silence fell between the two Trainers as they, as well as their Pokémon, were anticipating their moves. As if on instinct at the same time, they called their attacks at the same time.

"Leaf Storm!"

Serperior raised his head high as a green aura enveloped his body. A green typhoon with a vortex of sharp green leaves surged from thin air and surrounded him. Likewise with Torterra. Serperior swung his tail around and directed the cyclone at Torterra and vice versa. Their shredding blasts collided and made a visage of green that blew away debris and junk from nearby alleys. Everyone had to cover up and veer away as the attacks turned into a cyclone that went skywards. When the air was refreshed, their assaults diminished to thin air. Torterra and Serperior were unfazed inside, their blue auras showing their Special Attacks dropping.

Minerva used her forearms to cover from the blast, but even she was rendered impressed. 'Such power.'

Once the air cleared, the first to take initiative was Shou. "Serperior, Giga Drain!" Serperior's two prong leaves that stuck out behind his head glowed bright green. They stretched into streaming green energy that aimed for Torterra.

With critical thinking in a split second, Duncan voiced his command. "Stone Edge!" Torterra raised his front two legs and came crashing down, making the rock depress beneath him. A straight formation of jagged glowing pillars raced across the earth and barreled through the energy vines. They continued towards Serperior as his head remained high.

Shou's grip on his guitar strengthened, his pick stretched out. "Leaf Storm!"

Serperior's green outline summoned the same typhoon as before. The whirlwinds of shrapnel leaves whirled around and was directed by the tail into the incoming pillars. The pressure of the cyclone made impact so hard that shards of earth fell everywhere with the leaves.

Once again the atmosphere was clear between them, though from Serperior's point of view he merely scoffed. "Is that all?"

Torterra grunted. "Likewise."

Shou went on the offensive once again with Serperior. "Leaf Blade!" Serperior's tail whipped around, glowing bright green. He suddenly sped off after Torterra in the blink of an eye, much faster than what Zoroark or Excadrill did.

'So fast.' Minerva gasped.

She, as well as all, saw Serperior reappear in front of Torterra with his tail raised. He slammed it down, making a green energy trail follow to Torterra's head. A green explosion encompassed the two, but Torterra refused to nudge.

Duncan smirked. "Stone Edge!" He could see it then, the look of mild shock on Serperior's face. He didn't have time to process it until he heard a foot stomp and something sharp and heavy slammed beneath him. An explosion of smoke shot Serperior skywards, doubling over into a slam and slide along the earth back towards Shou.

Shou grunted. "He wanted me to get close."

"Wood Hammer!" Torterra's tree on his back was surrounded by a green aura that transformed into an aura stump. It extended into a log and he shot it dead ahead.

"Dodge it!" Serperior followed the command by jumping over the attack. The stump crashed into the ground and left a massive crater. Torterra looked up to see Serperior's tail gathering the energy for leaves. It wasn't too hard to tell for Duncan's experienced glare.

"Leaf Storm!" Serperior's eye gleamed and he expelled a loud cry. He whirled around, firing another cyclone of green winds and leaves at Torterra.

'I thought he'd do that.' Duncan had him right where he wanted him. Without a second to lose, he gave the command. "Torterra, do it!"

Torterra's eyes widened. He raised his head high and roared with all his might. His aura log that wasn't receding yet was following his wake skyward. The large log swung upward at an alarming speed, swinging clean through the leaf shrapnel like a wrecking ball and continuing it's path.

Shou's eyes widened. "What?"

The shocked Serperior still in midair saw the Wood Hammer head his way. But with no ground, he was wide open at the energy stump slammed into him from below, sending a shock through his body. He roared out as he fell straight into the dirt, while the stump receded to Torterra.

A red static enveloped Torterra then, meaning the recoil damage. He remained strong as he watched his opponent try standing.

Serperior was up once more, though he stammered some. He definitely felt that attack. "You'll pay for that…" he swore.

Shou mentally cursed himself. He expected his opponent to be somewhat easy. After all, Torterra are slow but have high power. They're tanks. And Serperior has Speed most definitely. He got so far because of those traits. But here…Duncan was showing him what a higher experienced Trainer means. He wanted to win, it was evident in his eyes. It's been so long since Shou let this way, the feeling of being cornered…it's how he lost in the Unova League a short while back.

Minerva could see the anxiety in his eyes. She could see the growing flames inside Shou as he was facing a compelling Trainer. She empathized with him, she really did. To see him worry for his own life, this was what she felt when she was at war. This was the anxiety of facing a strong opponent. The wonders if you have what it takes to succeed.

And it's precisely because of that she clutched her arms tighter. She was getting goosebumps from watching the battle.

Shou started strumming up his guitar with the same tune as the music playing. He closed his eyes and tried thinking of what he could do. Given his recent performances, Duncan uses any attack to his advantage, and uses it to surprise Shou. With that in mind, he was limited on what he could do. 'He's good…' He looked at Serperior, who glanced back at him. 'But we're just as good!' He spread his legs and aimed the end of his guitar again. "Serperior, Giga Drain!"

Serperior hissed as his two leaf appendages lengthened into green whips and soared overhead towards Torterra. Not bothering to dodge, Torterra's body was wrapped in energy vines and sapped energy. He could feel the small damage that the attack was taking from and adding to Serperior in green waves.

"Now, Torterra! Stone Edge!" Torterra's eyes sharpened as he powered through the drainage without issues. He slammed his front legs down once more, sending rising pillars towards Serperior, who was still attached to Torterra.

"Leaf Blade!"

Serperior sneered as swung his tail at blinding speeds. The bladed tail cleaved through the stone pillars, leaving debris suspended. Just as Serperior was looking to be safe, he barely caught a glimpse of a green energy stump.

"Wood Hammer!" Duncan's response was as quick as his command. Torterra's energy stump lengthened like a polearm and crashed Serperior into the ground a third time. The impact was just as harsh, and the damage Torterra took was just as intense. Nevertheless, he remained vigilant.

"Serperior!" Shou looked on, seeing Serperior struggle to stand. That attack did a lot more than bargained. The serpent was gonna that one. He looked at Torterra, his vision slightly blurred from the wind knocked out of him previously. He shook his head as he composed.

With a sudden cry, Serperior's body was enflamed in a green aura. The energy was similar to what Joey and Dereece remembered it as.

"Captain, is that what I think it is?"

"Overgrow, yeah. Things are starting to heat up around here."

Minerva refused to say much of anything after that. Her heart rate was staggering with Serperior on the defensive. He had to get in there, and fast. She watched as Shou was getting thrilled.

"Time for the main chorus line! Serperior!" He jabbed his guitar forward like it was some sword. "Leaf Storm!" Serperior's green aura had suddenly flourished into a swirling fury. The swirling typhoon expanded into a maelstrom of winds and leaves that looked far sharper than ever. Everyone looked shocked at the sheer size, but their comments were muted by the sound barrier broken by it being shot at Torterra like a bomb's shockwave.

'I have to reduce the blast.' Taking precaution, Duncan acted quickly and reached his arm out. "Torterra, Wood Hammer!"

Torterra glared as his tree glowed and shot another energy log that blitzed into Serperior's oncoming storm of energy leaves. The typhoon and log let in the center with gusto, but neither side was budging. However, in the shockwaves, Leaf Storm still had a wider range. Whatever wasn't around the concentrated storm brushed past the log and into Torterra. The impact shredded some of his hide and caused him to cringe. He held his ground for as long as possible until the mass of the winds were done, but his legs spread apart, his face grazed and his breathing heavy.

Serperior hastily gasped. His opponent still stood. "He's durable indeed." A blue aura enveloped his body, further reducing his Special Attack.

"Hang in there, Serperior! We've got him now!" Shou insisted. "Leaf Blade!" Serperior snaked his way towards Torterra with his glowing green, sharpened tail.

Torterra suddenly stomped a heel on the ground. He roared out as a green aura flared around his body as well. Serperior almost slowed down with the caution afoot.

"Overgrow for Torterra, too?" Dereece gasped.

Duncan smirked at the opportunity at hand. He waited till the last possible second until Serperior was close enough for his tail to come down. "Wood Hammer!"

Serperior slashed just as Torterra fired his green aura log. The two attacks created a massive spark rupture between and flourished ito a blast wave that traveled towards the audience again. For the umpteenth time, they had to cover up as the energy from both attacks prevented them from moving or seeing what was happening.

"What power!" Sting grimaced through his forearms. Druddigon was using his thick forearms to shield Lector from the blast.

When the smoke clouded over, there was a roar from Torterra as he raised his front legs. His higher Attack power managed to push back Serperior's bladed tail, both withdrawing in slides across the battlefield. Torterra cringed again as shock stiffened his muscles and made him sore.

'We have to end this now!' Shou swiped his arm. "Stop them with your Gastro Acid!" Serperior opened his mouth wide, unleashing a glob of purple acid that sped at Torterra.

"Gastro Acid?" Sorano shuddered. "Bleh! He's firing his own puke?! Gross!"

"You think that's gross, try living with a Trubbish that vomits acid in your face when she gets happy." Dereece deadpanned. Even now, he had to hold back the vomit in his throat. Arceus knows what Joey sees in her.

The purple acid went towards Torterra, but Duncan wasn't having it. "Stone Edge!" Torterra roared, hammering the ground and unleashing spikes of earth that blocked the globs and continued their path towards Serperior.

"Leaf Storm!"

Serperior's eyes flourished various shades of red as the green aura around his body evolved into a typhoon of green whirlwinds that exploded outwards, striking everything in the vicinity. The stronger variations of winds repulsed any and all stones, reducing them to dust in less than a second. The shockwaves diminished just as fast, only for the winds to change.

Serperior gasped in disbelief. "You can't be…"

Torterra's own aura was charging up a draft around his body as well. His gaze was fixed on one thing, and this was something he couldn't prepared for. Duncan rivaled a just-as serious face.

"Torterra, Leaf Storm! Go!"

With a strong battle cry, Torterra yelled out with all his fury. He blasted a green typhoon at Serperior, tearing up the ground as the whirlwinds of shredding leaves went in like a pressurized beam.

Serperior was about to counter with his own Leaf Storm, but as he whipped his tail around, there was one problem…nothing was coming out. 'No way…I used up all of my Leaf Storm!' With his strongest attack reduced to 0, and too far and weak to get beyond the whirlwinds, Serperior's green skin paled as everything went white.

An explosion of green bloomed like the late spring. A cyclone of energy leaves made it impossible for anything to get through, but this time everything wasn't flinching. They were all staring in deep horrid shock was the thrill was too much for them. Shou and Minerva especially. The Trainer watched as the shockwaves diminished and smoke dispersed.

Slowly, from the shadows of the smoke, Serperior wobbled some before he toppled over. He thumped really hard on his right side, swirls in his eyes. He was done.

Torterra's Overgrow aura faded around his body, staring at his defeated foe. "It's done."

Duncan seemingly lowered his guard. He raised his Poke Ball silently and pointed it at Torterra. The Continent Pokémon looked back at him and met Duncan's gaze. It was a mutual respect in silence amongst them, and that's all that needs to be said. Once returned, Duncan looked ahead like nothing happened, while Shou sighed in defeat.

A short clap came from the audience. Someone started clapping with them. All around, the applause was starting to grow. Pretty soon the populace around was exploding with cheers and claps from the battle they've observed. Whether it was for Duncan or just because it was an awesome fight, everyone was clapping, even all of Sabertooth was.

"Now that was a battle!" Sting commended, clapping his hands. The look on his Druddigon's face confirmed even he looked satisfied. He balled his claws and pumped them. "You're psyched too? That's right!" Sting smiled.

"Wow, their Pokémon are strong." Lector commended flatly.

"Fro thinks so, too." Frosch said, clapping his arms like a penguin with flippers.

Dobengal and Orga clapped for the contestants for their efforts as well. While many were happy for the ecstatic battle, a loud shriek ripped through it like paper. "ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!" The echoes of an extremely sour Sorano caused all those nearby to flinch. Puffs of smoke expelled from her ears as she flailed in place. "WHY?! WHY, WHY, WHY~?!" She sunk to her knees, pounding the ground frivolously in despair.

"HA! In. Your. FACE!" Joey pointed mockingly. He thrusted his pelvis into the air. "Oh! We are so partying when we get home! Nic and Vanessa's honors are saved! Yay, Duncan! You don't suck!"

Sorano whimpered as wavy tears soared down her groggy face. If she wasn't poor before, she most certainly was now. Thankfully Yukino was there to pat her back. "I-It's okay, big sis. We'll just find work starting tomorrow."

Sorano grabbed her little sister and hugged her tight. "I hate today! I hate these people! I hate everything! I wanna go to bed~!"

Joey and Dereece looked at the elder sister whining and complaining like a spoiled brat. Joey sweatdropped; he almost felt sorry for her. They looked at each other in confusion before shrugging.

Shou walked over and kneeled toward Serperior. "Hey, Serperior. You okay?"

The serpent's eyes fluttered open, and immediately he felt a strong pain over his body. He cringed until settled. "Well…can't say this was my proudest battle." He said sorely. Fortunately for him Shou was very forgiving. He felt his hand on his aching head.

"You did great out there. We were close." He held up his Poke Ball. "Now get some rest, you earned it." He returned Serperior, standing up to face Duncan. He walked over, meeting his gaze. Despite the loss, he took it maturely, as shown by his face.

"Well…you beat me. You're good." He praised. "I can definitely see why Joey and Dereece have you around." He reached in his back pocket and pulled out a handful of Jewel. It looked about 20,000 Jewel. "There goes my pay for the day." He eyerolled.

Duncan accepted the cash with a subtle nod. "Yeah. Same here." He chose not to comment further on his testimony with his current position. By all means he wasn't very fond of Joey, nor Dereece, And, as much as he berated him before, Joey has – to a degree – prove his responsibility enough so that he could shut his mouth. But skill wise, he'd rather not say. In fact, this battle made him realize how far long he is compared to Nic and Vanessa. Inside, he replayed his battle picturing the flops and the turns executed. 'I have to keep improving.'

While they made peace at the end of the match, Minerva wasn't too far behind. She had watched Shou lose, but even so, she continued to look at him with admiration. Her grip on her forearms softened.


Day soon turned to evening and the fun that Sabertooth had was to meet its conclusion. As enjoyable as a day it was for everyone, all good things had to come to an end. The majority of them had already went home, or decided to go on overnight jobs. But a few decided to stay behind to see their new friends head off.

"You guys sure you don't want to stay overnight?" Sting suggested. "We wouldn't mind. We'll make a space if you want?"

"Look, as much of a blast today's been, I think we have to get back home now." Joey said, showing disappointment. "But we can do this again if you want?"

This seemed to have elevated Sting's spirits some. "I see. Yeah, I'll look into that."

"Give my regards to Gajeel and the rest of your guild." Rogue insisted, showing a genuine smile to The Freaks.

Sorano turned away, arms crossed and brow furrowed. She was obviously still sore from her loss in two bets. "Hmph! Well I don't plan on seeing you for a long time I bet!" she exasperated. Yukino stood beside her, but could only sigh. She was too tired for all of this.

"At least neither of us came out of this empty-handed." Sting sidenoted.

Joey toothily smiled. "You didn't. We got ourselves some new songs…" he held up Boombox overhead, downloaded with a bunch of new tunes from Shou's laptop. "And Shou's got himself a part-time gig. It's a win-win! Right?" He looked towards Shou for confirmation.

The Trainer nodded, holding up a sec full of Jewel provided by Joey for payment. "Sure is. And Joey, if I ever make new songs, I'll contact you. Just say the word and I'll make a new song for your tastes."

Joey smiled and winked. "Done."

Dereece rolled his eyes. 'Something tells me this is gonna be a weekly thing going on.' He looked ahead, seeing Joey shake hands with the new friend. 'Oh well, at least it's something constructive.'

From the crowd seeing them off, two brawny arms pulled them in. Joey and Shou looked up to see Orga looking at them with big smiles. "You guys are alright in my books. Better stop by again along with your guild." He looked towards Shou. "And you know, I'm thinking about learning to play an instrument or two. Wanna help me out? We can start a band."

The offer was tempting, but Shou was still backtracked on the first few lines. He tried squirming out of his hold. "Um, now one step at a time. You know my music doesn't come cheap, so if you want me to help you with lessons…"

Orga backed away, hand to his hips. "Yeah, yeah. I got it. I'll get the Jewel. You just think about it."

"It's getting dark. You should probably take the train that goes directly to Magnolia from here." Rogue instructed.

Joey nodded. "Done. Alright Freaks…" He swerved around, a knee up and pointing towards the train station. "Next stop: Home!" He pressed a button on their Boombox.

[Reel 2 Real – I Like To Move It]

Joey held up a peace sign with two fingers. "Peace out, Sabertooth! Later!" Joey shuffled and moved his hips as he danced his way towards the station. Behind him, Dereece and Duncan followed, though the latter didn't dance. Dereece, however, shuffled some, but not nearly as much as Joey as they vanished from sight.

"Well those guys sure are a hoot." Lector dryly commented. "They sure know how to throw a good party and wrap us in it."

"Fro thinks so, too." Frosch raised a paw in agreement.

Rogue turned away with Duskull. "It's getting rather late for us as well. We should be heading back now, Frosch." At his behest, Frosch was plucked from his side by Duskull and placed in Rogue's. He started before realizing something was missing. "Say, where is Milady anyway?"

"Minerva?" Sting questioned, looking around with him. "Huh? She was here a second ago. Must have went home."


Shou was walking down the street that lead to his apartment. After the day he's had with meeting new people and getting new opportunities, he needed to prepare. He had a good feeling he was going to get busy for a little while.

With his guitar in a case behind his back, he rubbed the back of his head. "What a day…" he mumbled, turning up the corner of his street. "Well, at least I have some work to do. Better than broke I guess." He was walking towards his apartment when he noticed someone already standing there. "Hm? Who's that?"

Standing at his doorstep, he was surprised to see not just any person present, but Minerva. She had her arms folded, and looked down rather bashfully. She seemed to be mulling over something but he couldn't make out what it was.

"Uh, hello…?" Minerva heard his concerned voice and turned towards him. He walked up the steps and stopped in front of his door. "Are you okay?"

Minerva cleared her throat, keeping a calm around her the best she could. "I'm fine, thanks." Her voice was so astute. He let her continue. "Listen, Shou. I still would like to…apologize for causing so much trouble. And I…" she glanced away, a slight pink in her cheeks. "I mean…if you'll let me…I would like to make it up to you somehow."

Shou blinked repeatedly. The request sounded usual coming from her. "Look, you don't have to. It's not a big deal, really."

Minerva clutched her forearms tighter. That answer didn't seem to do anything more than make guilt rise higher. Her heart rate was speeding up. "…I know. But…" she looked directly at him. "Still, after a rather long day such as this, I find it worthwhile to try and relax. Granted you may have lost…but, you have proven yourself to be a very respectable Trainer. I admire that fighting spirit."

Shou was a little surprised by her choice of words. In truth, he did feel alive when he fought Duncan. Though it was clear that in terms of experience that Duncan knew what he was doing, Shou was able to feel the thrill of a good battle. Something he had almost forgotten about.

"So…if you're not busy…I wouldn't mind hearing more about your fables about PokeEarrh, to pass the time of course."

Shou took the testimony rather calmly. It wasn't often that there were a lot of people who came to him for much other than broad music lessons. At the very least, obliging to her sounded appropriate. Now that he got a good look at her, she was a very beautiful young woman, about his age possibly, if not seemingly older if her voice meant anything. Seeing someone like her so bashful, it was actually…cute.

Minerva was growing restless for an answer, though Shou seemed to be thinking of something as well. She wanted to demand an answer, but she didn't want to come off as rude.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, she watched him reach and open the door. She watched him place his guitar inside and closed it. He came out, looking happily at her. "Sure. I think I'd like that…something quiet for once doesn't seem too bad."

Minerva's nerves settled. She calmly breathed, but inside, she knew this would settle things with what's been stirring inside all day. 'One step at a time, Minerva. One step…' She looked at Shou, her eyes fixed on his, and his alone. "So then, I know some places that are still open. My treat."


Just as the train for Magnolia was unloading passengers, the caboose were open to those filing through. The Freaks entered their car, just as another door opened a few cabooses ahead of them. From that one emerged Rufus as he walked into town.

Sabertooth wasn't the only one who had a long day. So did Rufus. He spent all day helping his cousin get back on her feet and get her magic going again. He felt a little proud of himself for doing so, though the calm grin on his face wasn't much of a speculation. He promised he'd check up on her a lot more often, and that was enough of a promise for the time being.

"Suppose I should check in with Sting while there's still time." He mused to himself. Last he checked, the guild didn't close till 9. He had enough time to come in and give a report on his return. However, something in the corner of his eye piqued his interests.

He stopped in the middle of the street amongst the few patrons still enjoying the town's atmosphere. He spotted a small restaurant that had a patio where people could eat outside. In two seats, he saw a most peculiar sight. Minerva was sitting with an elbow to the table, eyeing someone who was talking about a story of sorts. When he got a look at this individual, he saw how he seemed thoroughly invested in what he was saying, while at the same time eyeballing Minerva as she gazed at him admirably.

As much as he wanted to stop by, he saw how invested Minerva was in this young man. Rather than choose to intervene, he found it more appropriate to leave her be. She never looked so content with another male. Adjusting his hat, Rufus chuckled to himself as he walked down the avenue towards the guild hall.

"Well now…this is most interesting." He chuckled louder as he straightened his posture into the sunset.


In a forest farther east along Ishgar, there were trees and large trunks that stretched so high that it would seem there were no tops. The sunset radiated beneath the canopy and glistened along the bark in the woods.

As the winds shifted some, someone was walking through the setting sun's rays, wearing a light brown cloak to conceal himself. He had one goal in mind, and one path he must take. In his head as he walked, he recalled the few things that were spoken to him.

"Learn about the enemy. Every sentence of knowledge is paramount in this objective. These creatures…they taint our world. Do not engage immediately. The future of magic, lies solemnly in what you are capable of."

With calm steps, the figure recited that line repeatedly, further putting a weight on his shoulder. 'I must follow my orders, no matter what. Even if they are a very powerful guild, they must come to the understandings as we did.' His cloak lifted, revealing cyan-colored eyes. 'That Earthland is ours alone.'

He heard the sounds of humming behind in the low branches. He stopped and turned around, finding a Butterfree that rested on the bark as a perch. As the butterfly as nibbling on the sap, its compound eyes got a vision on the person beneath it. The two stared at each other for a long time, and the Butterfree was sensing some level of hidden chill. But it didn't act.

Fortunately as much as he wanted to deal with the infestation, he knew he couldn't send it back home. And he had no knowledge if engaging such a monster. He lowered his head and continued his way to Fiore in the setting sun.

The Butterfree watched the individual take off. It decided to flap its beautiful wings and take off in the same direction, fluttering beyond his reaches towards a new tree that lied ahead.


Decided to take a more relaxing turn this time around. What did you guys think of how I went about this route? Granted the length is still as long as the longingly long of long (see what I did there?), but rather than focus solemnly on Fairy Tail, I wanted to change paces, and my style for once. If you guys noticed, I detailed things and perspectives a little more thoroughly, as well as actions. I was reading a few fanfics that gave me some basis of how to go into another perspective and keep it detailed down to the very actions. With that in mind, I have to say that I actually enjoyed this fun-filled chapter. If you guys liked how I wrote this chapter, let me know and I'll see about training more on this style.

So for this new OC for Minerva, credits go to ValvraveRider17, who's been a fan and supporter of my series for a long time.

I'm thinking of maybe making 2-3 more chapters of this dynamic altering between The Freaks and Sophie. Thankfully it's not two different plotpoints so I can work with this much smoother. You'll be seeing how Sophie deals with her "new" life, and how The Freaks handle…you know, stuff.

As always, your voices and reviews are extremely important. Thanks and see you later!