Arcelia laid on her bed, her body still tender to where even the sheets felt ticklish to her scaly body. Though as young as she was, calling her a 'bare-bones minimalist' would be putting it extremely lightly.

Very lightly.

Her bedroom was a simple tan color, with a short but wide wooden dresser that stood across from her low-crop bedspread that sat on a mattress. The sheets were made of silk, which helped to not absorb as much moisture that her skin needed to stay rejuvenated. Though if she was honest, her mother needed it more than she did right now, especially with how much she was working. Though she already knew the answer if she were to say that to her face. But, all those aside, the only bare luxury she had was a small Gible plushy that she had resting against her cheek. The rest of her room had as much life to it as a graveyard. It was as dark as one as well, considering she wasn't allowed to open the curtains to allow the view of the outside world.

As much as her curiosity piqued her, she was too lost in her own little world to give a care. She sulked in her bedspread with a defeated look in her eyes. She knew she didn't do anything wrong, yet her mother still scolded her like she was the one who committed a heinous crime. That would justify the mood her mother was in.

But alas, it didn't. No matter what she did, it was never enough. Even when she would clean the house as per her daily chores, she would only be welcomed with a look of indifference from the Dragonair. Whatever she ate, she'd save it for later. Whenever she suggested something to do as mother and daughter, she always said 'she had to work'.

'Mom…' Arcelia trailed off as she vaguely remembered what her mother told her about humans. 'She told me that all humans did was cause trouble and ruin lives. That I should never be around them.'

In hindsight, if she looked outside right now, she would probably say her mother wasn't necessarily wrong. But, even though she could somewhat grasp that, it didn't mean that she fully believed it. Her encounter with Wendy proved to be the scarred flaw in her mother's autocratic preaching of human ire.

'That human girl…she wasn't as mean as what mom told me humans were. She was actually nice…' Ironic as it was, that was the first time she ever encountered a human face-to-face. Compared to what she learned of them, Wendy was like a saint.

"I'm sure what your mother is doing is out of love. You love your mother too, don't you? I'm sure she'll understand."

Arcelia shuffled uncomfortably on the bed. Those words she said echoed through her mind. She couldn't get that idea out of her head. When she thought about it, when was the last time her mother showed any sense of genuine kindness towards her?

'I make bento boxes for her all the time, but she never eats them. She never even thanks me for bringing them, not once…' She sulked deeper into her blanket's smooth fleece. 'Sometimes I wonder…does she actually love me? Because somehow, I just can't be sure…'

She then remembered the last look her mother gave her. A glaring fixation that spelled oppression in her eyes. She didn't sense a single drop of affection. Just pure…anger. What did she ever do to deserve such mistreatment?

Before she could answer that question, she heard a loud knock at the front door. 'Huh? Is that Mom? Did she forget something?' She pulled herself up out of fright. If she didn't answer, her mother would probably get suspicious.

She squirmed her way out of bed, making way towards the first floor where the loud knocking was. The banging was quite harsh to where it was desperate even. Arcelia was about to get it, but she didn't want to present herself unfashionably. She hurriedly squirmed her way towards the kitchen and seized the bento that sat on the counter and slithered back towards the way she came.

'Maybe she finally decided to take a break! She can finally relax for once! I knew that her job was just tearing her apart!'

She saw the knob jingle ferociously. She was about to reach and open when she suddenly froze within a few inches in range. Her scales shriveled when she remembered something else.

"Now listen here, get back inside. Do not open those doors or come out for any reason. I will not tell you again, do I make myself clear, young lady?"

For a moment, Arcelia hesitated. Did that mean for herself as well? Sure there was a crisis, but as far as opening and closing the door, all who's ever knocked or entered was her and her mother. To her, that was only common sense.

"Uh, M-Mom? Is that you…?" Arcelia lowly chimed.

The knob stopped twisting and a voice spoke up. "Eh? Who's in there?! I swear, I know I kept that spare key around here somewhere…"

Arcelia blinked twice. Her scales tensed up with the unfamiliar voice. 'Wait…that doesn't sound like Mom…'

For a brief moment, she heard the mat from outside flip, followed by an angry grunt. The female tone outside turned to anger. "Screw it!"

Arcelia didn't know what to expect. Suddenly, the door broke open by a powerful force of sludge currents that channeled past her. She was lucky to have flinched and cower towards the ground when she did, otherwise she'd be hurt bad by wood chips and sludge. When she looked up, she was met with a tall, roguish feminine figure with am eyepatch over her right eye. In her right hand was an iron club with spikes that sat on her shoulder. She glared down at the inhabitant with a look like she had a death sentence.

"Eh? I bust back into my home and find this thing?" the female mage scoffed. "Sorry, snaky, but you're evicted!"

'Oh crap…' Arcelia swallowed a lump.

"Now…get lost!" The woman had a vicious, wily smile as she held up her spiked mace, purple sludge spiraling around it for a joint spell.

"EEEEEK!" Arcelia yelped in fear for her life. Unable to reach the stairs in time, she quickly went on instinct. "A-Agility!"

The mage brought the club down onto the wooden floor, but Arcelia had a dense red aura as she suddenly spurred between her legs and beelined for the door. She narrowly escaped the broken floorboard debris as she made a small tumble down the few cemented stairs and laid there, wincing.

"O-owwwww…that was a close one." She groaned as she got up. With the bento still held in her mouth, she looked back and saw the female warrior inside starting to turn around. Through fear of her life, her instincts told her to scram. And that's exactly what she did.

In a hurry, she used her increased Speed to slither away into the nearest alley for cover, away from the riots and battling mages and Pokémon in the streets around.


In the safe confines of his prestigious palace, Quinlan resided on his throne with his eyes shut. He seemed to be preempting about his options that could be taken into effect. However, as many of them as he would have liked to admit, he knew that too much freedom would lead to less control.

And the situation was already such a state.

As he was resting his mind to avoid any wear that could impose a miscalculation, he sensed something from outside. He opened his eyes slowly to find the shadow of a serpent descending and standing upright on his balcony. Though he clearly recognized who it was, he decided to entertain the notion by standing up and walking towards the large glass doors.

There, he found Adelita standing upright in posture with a fixed glare set on him the moment he opened the balcony doors to greet her. It was easy for him to tell that she seemed deeply troubled about something.

"Your Majesty…" the Dragonair greeted, her tone firm and strained.

"Adelita, to what do I owe the pleasure of your company?" Quinlan started, his expression as straight as the sarcasm in his tone.

"I believe you know very well why, Your Majesty." Adelita started, her glare hardening like she wanted to burn holes into his head.

Quinlan remained calm, instead finding it easier on his end for her to be prompt. "Perhaps so…but do entertain my notions. What business do you have to come to me?"

Adelita's patience ran thin all too soon. She arched up with a condemning look. "Then perhaps you should explain yourself. What the hell is the meaning of all this!? What is going on?!"

Despite her attempts to put pressure on him, he remained unfazed. "I see…so you were well enough to observe the state that Pokétopia was put to, is that right?" He closed his eyes. "I apologize for the inconvenience upon your return."

"An apology doesn't answer my question. First of all, why are the humans not contained properly? Do you have any idea of the health risks that are in the air just by them being around Pokémon?" She glared harder, harder than she ever has. "And second, why are you endangering Pokémon by encouraging them to fight back against this case? We have a strict law that prohibits unauthorized citizens from taking these sorts of actions!"

Quinlan could tell that she was challenging him. It was evident in her questions. He knew that even if she gave her an answer, she wouldn't be satisfied, even it was the truth. She was the kind who wouldn't be satisfied until she got her way. And that made the discussion that much more difficult.

"There has been an unfortunate breach in our security that greatly affected our PC." He started explaining. "Apparently, it was an inside job that started with a human that Adamantine caught. Despite precautions taken, it seemed that the human had made…motives behind Dahab's back. As a result, Adamantine withdrew him not knowing he had tampered with the proper equipment. That left the inmates and a certain group of Pokémon to start an uprise." He glanced towards the city. "And as you can see, this is the result of that scheme."

Another glance was not something that neither needed to spare. They knew that even without looking, the shouting and partial explosions happening from attacks and spells being unleashed gave them a clue to what he led on about.

"A security breach? Under your watch, you said?" Adelita scoffed. "And you're having the citizens clean it up for you?"

"I take it that you are not satisfied with the alternatives?" he chimed back.

"Don't act so flimsy with me! What you are doing is encouraging the poor and innocent to take arms in a fight that isn't theirs! I decided to reside here with my daughter because this is a human-controlled environment. I will not tolerate having my daughter being wrapped up in this mess and getting herself endangered because you decided to lift the ban for the means of 'self-defense'! That's what our police are for!"

"If you had paid proper attention, you'd know that our law enforcement is spread too far thin in numbers." he bluntly countered.

"That isn't the point, don't digress!" she snapped. "This isn't the safe haven that I wanted to have my child and I live in. If you had just managed these humans better, we wouldn't have this mess! Take responsibility and actually do something about it!"

Quinlan couldn't help but cock a brow. In spite of her outbursts, he remained unfazed by her demeanor and stand in the matter. To a sense he got where she was coming from, but he felt the situation being more ironic than degrading.

His eyelids lowered slightly as he passively looked at Adelita sneering. "I see. I won't deny that you have merits in your perspective. There has to be – and there will be – proper actions that will be taken to affect."

Adelita scoffed. "Okay, so what are they-" He cut her off by lifting a palm to her face.

"I wasn't finished. Let me ask you this, Adelita. So just because I am human, I am untrustworthy to your eyes?" He cocked a brow. "If I recall, I commissioned you to act as a vanguard to impose any intruders upon our island's perimeter. And yet because you failed at the job I entrusted you with, you shift the blame towards me. That's rather hypocritical, if not irresponsible of you, don't you think?"

"What did you-" Before she could backlash, he continued.

"You may have believed that due to your prejudices that humans are a hazard, and yet as this nation's leader, even though I am human, I am offering a life and jobs for Pokémon that they could potentially thrive under. I may be a human myself, but even the Apostles respect me enough to impose better judgment than the one that you have." He turned away, but he glanced over his shoulder. "In retrospect, the situation could have been quelled far more subtly had it not been for you."

Adelita lightly gasped, eyes widening.

"If I recall, it was you who allowed those humans into our territory. They were possibly aligned with the humans Adamantine had captured. Yet despite your work and job description, you blame me for your daughter's ill-safety. I understand you're a mother that has responsibilities, but don't forget…" His eyes narrowed slightly. "I'm also the one who gave you this position…and I have a valid reason to dismiss you on the spot as well."

"Y-you…"

"I prioritize the safety of the Pokémon above all else. I suggest that you think less of being a mother, and do your job."

Adelita was boiling inside. Everything he said she wanted to deny right on the spot, and yet she knew if she did, he could withdraw her commission and leave her and her daughter in a tight spot. She wanted – needed – this job. It wasn't just because it paid handsomely, but it was a way to guarantee Arcelia's safety and harmless life. She knew her place.

If she had fists, they would have been balling. Instead, the tip of her tail coiled. She angrily turned away. "Fine…but this discussion isn't over, Your Majesty."

Without a word, the wings on her head expanded and took off back towards the city. Quinlan wordlessly watched her fly off to clean up the mess she subsequently started before turning back towards his room.

'She would have made an ideal Apostle, but at the time, that position belonged to Blade. Both have no appeal towards humans, but…at least Blade has his limits. But Adelita on the other hand…she would rather live a life without humans in our reaches period. She speaks of humans as an endangerment, and she's not wrong. But…I wonder, just how far is she filling to go for her ambitions?'


In the depths of Pokétopia's city limits, the streets were littered with debris, be it from humans breaking back into their homes or businesses, or from misfired attacks. Among some of the debris stirred bodies that were either Pokémon or human. At this point, it was hard to tell which side had the greater body count.

Lucy ran through these streets; Cana, Gray, Juvia, Wendy, Carla, and all their Pokémon accompanying them. Having recently just escaped from their captivity thanks to some ingenious convenience on their part, they were able to find their way back to the city.

"So this is Pokétopia, huh?" Gray chimed, heavy sarcasm endowed in his tone. He sounded anything but impressed, and no one could blame him.

Juvia turned her head to see an unconscious Dunsparce on its back as they all passed by. "This is just horrible. I never would have imagined such a place existed."

"Well it gets even worse with them having humans of their own." Cana chimed. "Seriously, if they hated being caught in the first place, would it have killed them to have said something? That's save a lot of trouble."

"Wasn't like there were many who could have had that choice." Liepard pointed out. "Besides, the citizens could have been brainwashed like the rest of us. They might not even be wild to begin with."

Cana turned back to her as she continued running. "Yeah, I know that! Thanks for reminding me!" she harrumphed. "Anyways, we've gotta shut this operation down." She faced ahead at the avenue. "Does anyone here have any idea where we're even heading?"

"I just ran into Vanessa and Sophie on the way here. They said that they were trying to find the factory that makes those cubes." Wendy noted.

"So if they're working on that, we gotta get straight to the bottom of this, and head to that palace as soon as possible!" Lucy insisted.

The group continued their line of direction as Lucy was focused on the pure white palace located along the cliffside's top. Even from so far away, it looked like it was so close. However, they were still so far within the city depths that it seemed like an eternity before they would even get near there. It was like a Rattata running through a maze!

Prinplup started to feel some slag in his stride. "Seriously…just how big…is this damn city anyway?!" he shouted.

"Beats me. But it's gotta be big enough to make you wanna complain." Liepard teased. "What's wrong? Don't tell me you're getting soft on us now."

"What was that?! I'm just getting started!" Prinplup backlashed, looking back at her with an offended glare. "Like I'd wimp out at a time like this!"

Liepard smirked, right ear twitching. "Good to know. Then just keep up."

"Hmph! I should be the one to tell you that. Watch!" With a valiant shout, Prinplup quickened his pace to where he was full-on sprinting past everyone. The others watched him barrel off without any hesitation ahead, their expressions as blank as sheets of paper.

"Well, someone's definitely fired up now." Vaporeon said. "…even though he's a Water-type."

"I have to ask, was that really necessary, though?" Wartortle asked.

Liepard nudged her head, humming. "He makes things too easy sometimes. Give him a few words and he'll bounce back. It's one of his better qualities…if not the more amusing."

"That's cruel." Klefki chastised.

"Well, I am the Cruel Pokémon for a reason, you know." Liepard snickered.

"Look alive, you guys! We've got company!" Gray shouted, garnering everyone's attention.

As Prinplup was darting ahead of them, they were all coming up to an intersection that seemed relatively unscathed. Prinplup was so focused on proving himself to be full of energy that he was rushing head-on towards the intersection without paying attention to his surroundings.

Suddenly, the sides of the intersection were flanked by numerous Pokémon, all of them having Human Cubes in their clutches.

Prinplup gasped. 'Where'd they come from?!'

"Heh, check it out! Looks like we've got lucky this time!" A Lickitung shouted.

"About time! I've been meaning to get my hands on one! I need that bounty money!" A Tangela retorted.

"Get in line, I'm bagging all these humans!" A Mankey yelled.

Gray brought his hands together, conjuring ice. "Yeah, you'll try!" With a thrust of his palms into the street below, a sudden flash suddenly expelled a wave of ice that swept underneath everyone's feet. The ice spread towards the Pokémon ambush, quickly freezing all their lower halves in a matter of a few seconds.

"W-woah! What the-?!" the Mankey snapped.

Prinplup, who was fine with such an environment, proved his innovation. With himself unable to stop his momentum, he tucked his wings in and slid on his stomach across the ice towards the confined Pokémon ahead. The velocity made him speed up faster than what they had anticipated.

"Hell yeah, that's what I'm talking about!" Cana shouted. "Now use Metal Claw!"

Prinplup harrumphed, jumping as soon as he was close enough to the group of Pokémon trapped. He crossed his flippers that glowed metallic gray and flew passed them. In a shimmering gash wave, he carved into the Pokémon that he passed by, making them all cry in pain.

"How's that for a wimp?!" he sneered.

"Time to get in on the action! Let's go, Taurus!" Lucy shouted.

Taurus clutched his labrys tighter than before. "Right behind you, Miss Luuu~cy!"

Lucy held Taurus' key up to her ample chest, causing the Magic Power to infuse into her body. "Star Dress: Taurus Form!" She manifested her Star Dress attire for her Celestial Spirit counterpart, accompanied by the whip that she had clutched between her tight grips.

Without any hesitation, Lucy raised the whip in her hand, bringing it down with brute strength into the frozen ground.

"Earth Wave!"

The whip slammed ferociously beneath the frozen Pokémon in pain. Unable to act in time, they all were struck brutally by shockwaves of ice and concrete brought up from the wake of the strike. They all careened through the air and landed in sprawled fashion over the avenue.

"Alright, wait a go!" Klefki happily chirped.

"We're just getting started!" Lucy turned towards Taurus and Staryu. "You guys ready?"

"Right behind ya!" Taurus grinned eagerly.

BEEPBEEP! Staryu rapidly blinked.

Lucy swung her arm ahead, directing at the traffic of Pokémon ahead of them. "Alright then, let's go! Staryu, Bubble Beam!"

Staryu began spinning rapidly, facing ahead with the core shimmering brightly. Said core projected clear blue bubbles that jettisoned in a compressed beam through the air at an alarming pace.

"MMMOOOOOOO~!" Taurus gripped his labrys tightly as he pivoted in place. Standing in the wake of the bubbles, he used the power of his speedy swing to conjure an air current that followed his momentum. The multiple bubbles multiplied as they continued stockpiling around him to where an entire swirling mass of bubbles overtook everything with incredible speed. The spiraling typhoon of bubbles expanded outwards, engulfing everything in its wake. That included enemy mages and Pokémon alike that were unable to get away from the attack.

Taurus continued with swinging his labrys in a cyclonic, forceful speed. "How do you guys like this Bubble Typhoon? Yeah!"

Lucy pumped her fist with a bright smile. "That's what I'm talking about!"

"That's amazing, Lucy!" Wendy cheered.

"Hey wait, didn't we see that move before though?" Happy inquired.

Lucy looked back, giving them all a flashy wink. "Got déjà vu, did ya? Yeah, Taurus and Aries did a combination like this back in Tartaros. Thought making use of that experience for other moves would be fitting."

Wartortle turned towards Juvia. "Boss-Ma'am, time to take the proactive approach!"

"Yeah, I wanna get in on this, too!" Snorunt insisted.

Gray blinked, registering Snorunt's eagerness before smirking. "Fine by me. Then let's try this…" He reached his arm out at the ongoing cyclone. "Alright then, Snorunt, Icy Wind!"

"Vaporeon, now! Use Swift!" Juvia directed.

Vaporeon and Snorunt jumped into the air together, both lurching back at the same time to gather momentum for their respective attacks. Vaporeon's tailfin shined brightly as she swept it across, sending a large array of golden stars spinning rapidly in succession. Snorunt's large teeth glowed bright blue as he expelled a large-scale, cold, icy freeze that had blue sparkles in it.

The two attacks beamed into the typhoon's wake, quickly getting caught up in the force it was dragging around. The cold winds added alongside the golden stars to make a spiraling maelstrom of bubbles and golden stars surrounded by an expansive, frosty whirlwind. The attack expanded further thanks to the added range these two attacks had, and because of their properties, not a single person or mage within the area was able to escape, and those barely able to stand had a blue aura envelop them, reducing their speed.

Cana couldn't hold back a whistle. "Well I'll be damned. They certainly aren't pulling any punches, are they?"

Liepard's whickers twitched as she slyly smirked. "Well, I don't know about punches per se, but I'm sure my claws can suffice for that upset." She crouched readily. "Wouldn't you think so?"

Getting the innuendo, Cana smirked. "Let's find out, shall we?" She reached her arm out. "Alright, Assurance!"

Liepard didn't waste a single step as she suddenly sprung into action. Her forepaws were engulfed in thick, bright purple energy as she closed the gap on a nearby mage that was just outside the cyclone's wake.

"Gnnngh…damn…that one hurt…" he stammered, feeling his head. He had taken a nasty fall. "The hell is-?!"

Without any warning, a shadow sprung over him, adverting his attention forward. With the mild concussion he sustained, he only caught purple light followed by an intense swell of pain directly across his face that instantly floored him into the pavement below.

But it didn't stop there. Liepard used his floored frame as a springboard and ricocheted into another mage that was trying to stand, only for him to be knocked down. Then another, and another, and another. It looked like she was hopping around while smacking down foes that couldn't fight back.

And judging by the crude sneer she had, she seemed to be enjoying it.

Of course, the same couldn't be said for certain occupants inside Cana's literal backpocket. Though the mage herself was raptured in the onslaught, the two cards containing a certain Vulpix and Grovyle had found their space rather discomforting. It didn't help that they were prisoners, period.

Sune especially was freaking out. "Damnit! Let me out! LET! ME! OUT!" She cried out, pawing against the barrier the card trapped her in, but to no avail. "Taking someone against their will is against the law! Much less an officer! T-that's a hostage situation!"

"Well…guess it's a good thing I didn't develop claustrophobia." Blade sneered. '…but I might if this crap doesn't end.'

"Hey! You let us out this instant! I'm an officer of the law! You're committing several felonies just from holding me like this!" Sune barked. "By law, you have to let me go this instant!"

Blade scrunched his brows. "Hey, shut up already, would ya? They're not gonna listen to you, why would they?"

"Because, I'm part of the law enforcement! It's my job to protect the people!"

"So what? They don't care. Were you paying attention earlier? They want to stop our 'society' or whatever by any means." He eyerolled. "Besides, what can you do, fluffball? You're as stuck as I am. You're better off saving your energy."

Sune didn't like it one bit. "But you're an Apostle, aren't you? Surely they'll listen to you! They have to!"

"You really are a moron, aren't you? If you were that desperate from the start, you should have just used your moves in the first place. There isn't a restriction on that right now, you know!"

"…it's not about that." She muttered.

"What now?" Blade raised a brow.

Sune's tone was low, but she was still coherent. "This isn't about the right and wrong. It's about the merit behind the justice we carry. Okay…so maybe I am at the bottom of the barrel, but it's just a rough time for everyone. Everyone might think they're better than me because of their positions, but if I prove myself by following the laws, surely, no, they have to acknowledge my merits. They have to."

There was an uneasy silence between the Pokémon cards. The only remedy was the constant explosions and eruption of debris from outside. Blade had found himself wordless as he kept a skeptical brow raised at what he just heard.

To a certain extent, he somewhat understood where she was coming from. Because he was an Apostle, he was automatically revered and respected by his peers. Though he was practically given the position, he knew what the concept of merit was. Hearing what Sune went through back in the storage unit made it clear that she had worked harder than him, yet she was closer to the chopping block because she was at the bottom of the barrel. It was simply the bracket of power given to them by the law.

'It has to be that way. What that Liepard said earlier, she was just getting inside my head. That's what Dark-types do. The law is the law. They were created to keep everyone corrected…'

'So that's this fox's aim, huh?' Blade thought morosely. 'Working hard sticking to the rules to get that respect. Gotta say, a stickler she is. But she's too stiff in the bones. Poor girl's gonna get snapped either way, no matter how much she tries. Never was a fan of the damned law myself. Guess I get what I asked for when the law enforcement sent someone like her my way.'

It said enough to let Blade know the justice system was in improper care, even with Pokémon governing it. If he wasn't begrudged by all this order crap before, he most certainly had an incentive now.

But ultimately, all he could do to console the distressed Vulpix's anxiety of her position was sigh. "Whatever you have to tell yourself."

Meanwhile, back outside, Carla covered Wendy's blind spot with a roundhouse kick to a mage's head. With the space needed, Wendy had enough time to enact a spell.

"O strengthen of arm to cleave the heavens! ARMS!"

A quavering magical aura embedded into all her allies around her. Their bodies were fastened in this aura that gave them a temporary boost in power. It even endowed the Pokémon as they were readily facing opponents in front of them.

Juvia took the initiative with a swipe of her arm. "Water Nebula!"

A monstrous geyser of spiraling water exploded from below, swallowing numerous Pokémon and mages close by with pressure so intense, the ground itself nearly collapsed from the force her spell had.

"Nice work, Juvia!" Lucy praised, before noting the Exeggutor racing up on her right. With one smack of her whip, the sheer force sent the Coconut Pokémon flying across the avenue into the nearest wall, smashing through it.

"Don't stop, keep the pressure on them!" Gray shouted. His Bergmite did just that, using an empowered Bite on a Drowzee that got too close.

Wendy nodded in agreement. "Right, then let's try this!" She was about to enact another enchantment spell to help keep their advantage, but as she was channeling her Magic Power to do so, her nose caught a whiff of something.

'Huh? Wait, this smell…'

Carla landed beside her as she noticed the hesitation. "Wendy, what's wrong?"

The Sky Dragon Slayer didn't respond immediately. Her nose was focused on the concentration of this familiar smell. She could tell, it was familiar alright. Familiar…and recent.

'This smell…is it that…?' Wendy felt her curiosity reach its peak. She noticed an alleyway that was adjacent to them. She also noticed that despite how narrow it was, it was the direction where the smell was coming from.

It was then, she noticed it. Time slowed down for a split second. Her eyes gradually widened when she noticed a periwinkle spritz that shot across the intersection point. She recognized it almost right away…and the bento that it carried. Behind it, there were numerous humans as well with brandished weapons of their own.

'Isn't that…!' To Wendy, time returned to normal as the serpentine figment rushed away. She looked back ahead to see how the others were doing. From the looks of it, her spell had given them plenty of room to allow her some levity. "Carla, Amaura, Swablu! C'mon!"

The three turned towards Wendy in surprise. "Wendy, what's wrong?" Carla asked.

"No time to explain!" she shouted, a serious look on her face. "I think someone's in trouble…let's hurry!" Taking a runner's pose, she gathered wind in her heel and shot into the alley at lightning speed, leaving the air to expel into a gust.

"Wendy!" Carla gawked. "Geez…well, if she has a hunch, you know how stubborn she is at letting it go." She turned towards Swablu and Amaura. "Let's hurry before we lose her."

"Okay!" Amaura chimed.

"Yep! Coming, Wendy!" Swablu chirped.

The three, hastily followed behind the young Dragon Slayer, leaving the others to fight the fodder with no contest. No that it mattered. From the wake all their spells and attacks were creating, it wouldn't be long until the onslaught would die down.

"Wait, where's Wendy going?!" Klefki asked.

"Probably smelled some reinforcements or something." Gray noted. "Don't worry, she's small but she's not easy to break. She'll be just fine. Let's take care of this mess!"

Juvia nodded excitedly. "Right behind you, my love!"


There was a tense stare down between Elfman's Beast Soul and the Sawk named Martial otherwise one of the Twelve Apostles. There was sheer look of vindication in the former's eyes as he clenched his fists, trying his damnest no keep his composure in face of this foe.

Meanwhile, with much the residence having been evacuated, there were still some Pokémon that hung around to observe the soon-to-be fight that would escalate. Hiding in corners of alleys or standing several meters from their range, they all stared in awe.

"I can't believe it. We're actually going to be seeing Martial battle?!"

"Oh yeah, this was so worth getting out to see! Should have been a colosseum fight!"

"But this is even better! It's up close and personal. Wonder what he's gonna do?"

"Whatever it is, that human's toast! He's got no clue just how strong an Apostle is!"

The comments didn't go unheard from either party, but neither made any effort to appease the peanut gallery's anticipations. Their only focus was on each other.

"Are you finding vindication through our people? I had reason to believe that you would have enough common sense to not fight the innocent. Yet you chose bodily harm to those around you." Martial announced. It was more of an observation than it was a taunting testimony.

Elfman immediately shot a counter. "Listen here, pal. You and I know there's nothing innocent here. You're using humans against their wills, and for what? How about that for a start."

Martial closed his eyes with a scoff. "It's not in your place to judge our way of life. You humans merely lack a component that makes for one's own stature in this world."

"Oh yeah, mind telling me what that is?" Elfman belittled.

Martial hummed again, choosing to humor the muscular mage. "Very well." He slowly opened his eyes. "One word: Discipline. To have the ability to focus, and to stay in tune with your training on a consistent basis. Those are the basic traits to maintain one's strength of both mind and body. If a human were to lack such a trait…" He grabbed the laces of his black belt, pulling them to tighten the fabric. "Then the value of them and their Pokémon would have less meaning."

"Why you…!"

Elfman was about to retort, but suddenly, his Poke Balls popped open by themselves. Machoke and Rhyhorn appeared beside him, shooting glares at Martial. "Huh? You guys…?" Elfman gasped.

Machoke clenched his fists, veins pulsing around the knuckles from how tense he was just from looking at Martial. Rhyhorn dug his heels into the ground, snorting in contempt. Neither forgot what happened the other day; even Rhyhorn's small brain could still recall the Sawk that had a human that hurt his own. And both looked ready to get even.

Martial, however, remained completely composed. "Coming out of your own free will out of anger…" he paused. "How undisciplined you all are."

Machoke and Rhyhorn squinted, looking angrier. However, the one who took the insult the hardest was Elfman. He stomped on the ground, denting the street rock inward. It was enough to get the two to bare their glares at him. "You can talk badly about me as much as you'd like. It doesn't matter to me…" For a moment, he recalled the incident a long time ago back on Tenrou Island, how he fought alongside Evergreen. "But what I won't stand…is how you talk badly about my partners! As a man, I'll make you eat those words!"

Martial didn't seem fazed by Elfman's declaration in the slightest. "That so?"

Elfman suddenly bridged the gap with great speed, reeling a fist back. "HRAAH!" With an outlandish cry, he threw a blow that Martial anticipated. At the last second, he jumped and somersaulted, missing the punch that smashed into the concrete. Martial flipped onto the ground several meters back and landed on a knee, rising to his feet.

Elfman suddenly sprung out of the dust cloud brought up by the impact and closed the gap, going for two cross jabs. Martial kept himself steady and weaved around them with little effort. When Elfman went for a third blow, however, Martial suddenly sidestepped, allowing Elfman to fall forward. This action caused Elfman's eyes to widen in realization.

With a huff, Martial raised his left leg and unleashed a roundhouse kick right into Elfman's abdomen, via Low Sweep. He slid back across the street by several yards until he grinded to a halt. When he did, a blue aura enveloped his body, indicating his Speed dropping.

'Damn! He brought me close on purpose so he could do just that!'

"Strength you have, practicality and form you do not. In a contest of strength, using one's abilities to their fullest determines one's potential." Martial chided, adjusting his stance. "I ask you, was that your full potential you showed me just now?"

"Not even close." Elfman balled his fists tightly. "Don't underestimate a man based on how you perceive humans."

"Whoever said potential wasn't excluding humans? It's a fact." Martial reached back, pulling out a Human Cube. "To demonstrate my point, it's best to show you of such merits."

Elfman, Machoke, and Rhyhorn spread their heels and braced themselves.

"Come out…" Martial thrust the Human Cube with a palm strike. "Bruce!"

The Human Cube snapped open, expelling magical energy that manifested into a broad and muscular man that the three recognized all too well. He stood there with his fists clenched, showing his eagerness to battle.

"It's him…" Elfman scoffed. He recalled the barrage of punches he took from him the other day. Suffice to say that he was anxious to return the favor.

"Huh? Is it finally time to battle again?" Bruce questioned. He looked ahead, seeing the opponents standing before him. "Huh? Hey, wait a minute, I think I remember you. Weren't you that big guy that was packed with all those wimps we mowed down?"

Elfman's glare hardened. "Those 'wimps' were my guildmates."

"Really? Heh, well you better not disappoint me like last time, buddy." He rammed his knuckles together, making a surprisingly loud airwave. "Cuz if you do, I'll beat you to an even bigger pulp!"

"Bruce!" Martial exclaimed, getting his human's attention. "Incapacitate the three before you. Remember your restraints."

Bruce responded with a scoff. "Yeah, sure. I gotcha." He clenched his fists tightly. "Just let me at 'em already!"

"Get ready, guys! No holding back!" Elfman shouted, reaching his arm forward. "Rhyhorn, Rock Blast!"

Rhyhorn let out a gruff snarl. His forehead shined bright orange as energy charged up.

Martial was quick to counter. "Predictable. Bruce, Bullet Fist!"

"GRAH!" Rhyhorn unleashed a loud cry as he projected silver energy with rock-like texture. The projectiles fired in rapid succession, in numbers up to five total in a straight line towards Bruce. The mage himself took a step back as small magic seals appeared around his fists before he turned and let out a loud shout of his own.

In ballistic fashion, he unleashed bullet-like blows that unleashed at alarming speeds. His sheer strength and the speed behind the thrusts were enough to shatter the Rock Blast projectiles to shattered shards, dissipating to nothing. With a final punch, his knuckles met the last Rock Blast, shattering it the energy shrapnel.

"Ha…you call that a warm up? That was nothing." Bruce taunted.

Elfman narrowed his eyes. "He blocked all those…with just his bare fists alone?!"

"Allow me to explain." Martial started, arms folded. "You see, my human's magic is Mach Arm. It's an enhancement type of magic that allows him to concentrate all his magic and bodily power into his arms. With proper training, we were able to make full use of his body and spells to unleash multiple blows in seconds. This is the result of the discipline I spoke of."

"If that's the case, let's try this!" Elfman swiped his beastly arm. "Rhyhorn, Rock Blast one more time!" Rhyhorn complied, letting out another gruff roar as he charged up the same energy again. This time, a total of four silver, rock-like projectiles shot at Bruce.

"The same move twice…even superb fighters know not to blink twice. Bruce!"

Once again, Bruce balled his fists tightly, channeling magic into his broad, muscular arms and unleashed another bombastic array of punches that shattered the oncoming barrage of rocks. Even then, he wasn't breaking a single sweat.

"Get in there, Machoke!" Elfman roared.

"No need to tell me twice!" Machoke took off in a run, charging at full-speed with no sign of slowing down.

'He's planning to use his ally's attack as a stalling mechanism so he can bridge the gap.' Martial figured that was the case. 'Do they still not realize that no frontal attack will be effective against-'

To Martial subtle surprise, he witnessed the last Rock Blast stone launching past Machoke. As it did, he suddenly leaped onto it and jumped off using one heel. His muscular frame catapulted him several feet into the air as Bruce had found himself focusing on punching the last stone to bits.

Machoke glared down at the startled Sawk, with the realization dawning as time seemingly slowed for him to process.

'He missed Bruce…he's going after me! I see…'

"Use Brick Break!" Elfman roared.

Machoke balled a fist that glowed bright white. With a loud, violent cry, he pulled back his fist and unleashed a mighty blow that he had set on Martial. The Brick Break closed in, but Martial stood calmly the whole way through.

"Try and dodge this!"

The Sawk scoffed, but he knew he had enough Speed to get around. He dropped to a knee, ready to pull back. When he timed it well enough, he sprung back as the fist missed his face…or so it was supposed to. His eyes widened at the last second when a blurry white fist barreled at him.

With no room and finding his dodging dismissed, Machoke connected his fist with Martial's chest. The impact caused him to grunt heavily as he slid several meters away on his heels. When he came to a stop, he opened an eye.

"That…that hit?" He looked back at Machoke, who shot a glare at him.

"Like I said, just try and dodge me!" he sneered.

Martial frowned. "I see…so you must have No Guard. I've heard of Pokémon with this Ability are rather straightforward. You can hit me, but at the same time…I can also hit you."

Meanwhile, Elfman charged after Bruce head-on, their hands interlocking in a muscular stalemate that made a powerful gust spread around their feet. The two were in a deadlock as they bored daggers into the others' gaze.

"Ha! I like your energy, big guy! Show me what you got!" Bruce challenged, a roguish smirk appearing on the corners of his mouth.

Elfman offered no reply, instead focusing on pushing him back as hard as he could. And yet, he found that surprisingly difficult. He was using his Beast Soul's insane strength and brutality to overwhelm his adversary, yet Bruce proved himself sturdy. No matter what way he looked at it, Elfman knew he was going to have to work through this.

Martial faced Machoke, tightening his belt yet again. "It would seem that we have worthy opponents after all. Very well…show us your strength!"


Arcelia squirmed with labored breath. If her skin wasn't tender before, it certainly was going to be with all the friction it had going from the concrete. But she had bigger problems than just her shedding slowing her down.

As she finally breached broad light to a wider street, she found relief in its horizon. If she slowed down, the half dozen footsteps behind her would most definitely catch up to her. She didn't even want to know what would happen if that transpired.

As soon as she breached the open road, the panicking Dratini took a sharp turn on her right and hastily squirmed in a straight path down the smaller street. The pavement was a narrower field than other avenues and streets, indicating it wasn't a very popular nor a large-scale street. Arcelia wormed herself away with the excess speed her Agility gave her to get her as far away from harm as possible.

'I…I'm so out of shape! This is what I get for listening to Mom and staying inside all the time!' She cursed herself.

She couldn't dawdle for even a second. All she had to focus on was getting away. Just as she was about to go for another Agility, a blast of spiraling scarlet, crimson, and white sparkles barely missed her. She flinched as the spell funneled its way through the air into a lamppost up ahead. It struck the post's base, causing enough damage to it that the post gradually lost its balance and started falling directly onto Arcelia.

Not wanting to get crushed, the scared Dratini quickly sprung off towards the side, narrowly escaping the heavy pole's light lacrima. She was spared, but the post crashed into the ground, with the lacrima exploding and sending shards all around the vicinity. Arcelia wasn't bully braced as some of the shards pelted her tender scales.

"GAH!" She cried out as she grinded against the pavement. Shards of broken crystal scattered all around her as she was sprawled across the ground. Her body twitched as she felt the fresh cuts all over her.

As she reeled from the inconvenience, the other mages freed from the PC were able to catch up. They were all a group of three guys roughly in their mid-30's, but they all leered with the same enthusiasm in mind.

"That's more like it, that'll slow her down!" one guy shouted.

"Slippery little worm, she is." The second guy commented. "But look now, she ain't so slippery anymore."

"Let's hurry and knock this little one out." The third one, the one who shot the magic attack before, snarled. Again, the same shimmering magic circulated through his arms. "It'll make things easier for cleanup if it's not in the way."

"Heh, good call. No stone goes unturned." The first mage balled a fist, which was engulfed in flames.

Arcelia looked at the guys in fear. Small tears were in the corners of her eyes, be it from a mixture of the sharp pain and in anticipation of what was coming. She wanted to just curl up into a ball on the spot, but at the same time, her tender skin and open cuts would hamper her. It was a no-win situation for the inexperienced dragon.

'Help…Mom…somebody…' She silently called out for help as she closed her eyes, not wanting to see what her fate could be.

The second mage held up his arm, which was covered in metal spikes. "Alright…lights out for you, Pokémon!"

Arcelia waited for the brutal blows to be dealt. As she was rushing for it to be over with already, a loud whirlwind suddenly brushed past her, followed by men screaming. The crackling around her from the crystals on the ground dispersed gradually.

By the time the winds died down, she slowly opened her eyes. When she was expecting an angry horde to pummel her, she saw the crystals around her gone, as if they were blown away. That was all accompanied by a sudden array of thuds from behind. She turned around and looked stunned as she witnessed the three mages from a second ago sprawled across the avenue, all knocked out. To say she was confused would be putting it lightly.

"W-what just…?"

"There you are!"

Arcelia gasped. Her eyes widened when she heard a feminine voice call out in her direction. When she turned towards it, she had a mixture of shock and bewilderment when a familiar young girl with deep blue hair hurried over towards her. Not far behind her, for familiar faces showed in the form of a feline girl, with a Swablu and Amaura catching up.

It didn't take long for Wendy to hurry over towards the injured Dratini's aid. "Hey, there you are. You were pretty fast, I almost missed you."

Arcelia blinked, baffled. "W-wait a minute…you guys?" she quipped.

"Wendy!" Carla caught up, with Swablu and Amaura doing so as well. "Don't just go off like that! At least tell us before you rush towards somewhere." Carla chastised. "I swear, you're getting more impatient like Natsu."

"Sorry, Carla." Wendy apologized. "But I picked up a familiar scent, and look who I found."

Everyone present turned their attention onto Arcelia, who looked too unnerved to do anything. Carla immediately recognized the Dratini. "Hm, hold on, isn't this the one we've met on the beach earlier?"

"Yeah, it is." Wendy turned towards the injured dragon. "Arcelia, right?"

Arcelia nodded stiffly. "Y-yeah…" Though grateful that she actually remembered her, the situation didn't make it any less comfortable for her. 'What's going on around here? First humans are attacking me, now they're coming to my aid…I can't tell who's right or wrong anymore!'

Wendy looked down, frowning as she noticed the cuts over the smooth, creamy skin. There were also deep friction burns along her bottom-half, presumably from drag. "You're hurt."

Arcelia looked down at her own body. "Huh? Oh, yeah. That pole over there shattered and I was too close. It could have been much worse, though…"

Wendy could tell by her tone that she was trying to play it off. She wasn't buying it for a second. Even if the cuts didn't seem deep, she knew the friction against such tender skin would undoubtedly hurt. "Stay still, alright. I got this." She reached her hands out, radiating a wavy, sparkling green energy across her body.

"H-huh? Wait a minute! What are you…?!" Arcelia was about to panic, when she suddenly felt relaxed, and partially tingly. "What's this…?"

All over her body, the cuts that she sustained gradually began to heal themselves. The rate in which the rashes and small slits were before fading was borderline miraculous. She heard of such healing abilities from Pokémon with Heal Pulse, but this was something else entirely. She even felt her overall energy rejuvenate to where she wasn't feeling worn out at all.

She was speechless, left startled even as Wendy was deploying Healing Magic. 'She's healing my injuries. It's like I wasn't hurt at all…' She looked up at her with awe. 'This human girl…she really is nice.'

It didn't take long for the energy wave to fade. "There, that should do it. You're all better now." Wendy chirped.

Arcelia graciously nodded in gratitude. "T-thank you…Wendy, was it?"

Wendy glanced up, smiling cutely. "Yes."

For the moment, the small group had found themselves completely isolated. Despite the several blocks being filled with Pokémon and humans, the small street they were on was surprisingly vacant. With only a little time to spare, Wendy opted to help Arcelia to a more comfortable place. She was able to pick up the draconic serpent bridal style, since that was the most successful way of picking up her tender and smooth body.

They found themselves sitting at the base of some stairs to help catch their breath from all the running and fighting they've been doing. Amaura and Swablu greatly appreciated it. Wendy felt bad having to drag them around like this, but she didn't have any Poke Balls to keep them in. With Amaura and Swablu practically sprawled and looking exhausted, Wendy, Carla, and Arcelia were able to use this time to settle for a while.

In Arcelia's case, she looked at Amaura and Swablu as they were taking their small reprieve. They looked so relaxed as Wendy petted the former's head. Swablu was nestled atop her head, though she had long gotten used to it. They all seemed so happy, so cooperative…it left Arcelia partially jealous. She didn't like it.

"Why did you help me back there?" Arcelia asked.

"Hm?" Wendy broke away from the Sitrus Berries she fed her Swablu and Amaura to focus on her. "What do you mean?"

"I mean, I-I'm grateful that you went out of your way to save me, but I can't help but think that there's a catch to all this." She looked down. "Is this one of those 'I owe you my life' deals? B-because I'm not sure how I should feel about that."

Wendy and Carla briefly exchanged looks with one another. They turned back, with Wendy finally getting what she meant.

"Uh, n-no! It's not like that! Really! You don't have to swear your life like that!" She insisted nervously. "Honestly, well, it just felt like the right thing to do."

"Oh…I-I see…"

Wendy saw the confusion on her face still. She tried to think of something else to say to help ease the discomfort. That's when she noticed the bento box that sat beside Arcelia. "Is that the same bento as before?"

"Huh? Oh…yeah. I guess I did…" Arcelia trailed off, growing sheepishly embarrassed with the coincidence. She didn't want to tell them that she didn't intend to be ran out of her own home with the boxed meal.

"You've been carrying that around this entire time?" Carla inquired.

Again, Arcelia nodded. "Yeah…my mom still hasn't eaten it yet."

"Your mom, as in that Pokémon that attacked us on the beach?" Wendy clarified.

"…yeah, that's the one." Arcelia closed her eyes. "My mom, she's always been overbearing with me. For as long as I could remember, I can't think of one time she hasn't butted into my business and scrutinized me. Even when she's out working, she never likes it when I leave the house."

"Why is that?" Wendy asked, showing genuine concern.

"My mom, she hates humans. She always described them as these creatures who do nothing but bring harm to our lives. I didn't understand either, and then whenever I asked her, she just gives me a look and told me to never get near another human…it's like she doesn't even want me to understand." Arcelia's tone descended to melancholy. "I honestly can't be sure if what's she doing is what a normal parent should. Shouldn't a parent try to help and encourage their children to be the best they can be? So then why is my mom always sheltering me from the world? I can get why humans, but…I just don't know what's happening."

Wendy listened and processed what Arcelia was going through. Immediately her thoughts traced back to Grandeeney when she was very young. As far as she could remember her foster mother, Grandeeney was protective of her, but she taught Wendy what she could to keep herself upright. Granted, she became a soul that went into hibernation in Wendy's body for a majority of her life, but that didn't make her a bad parent as far as she was aware.

To hear such a mother act in such a way made her feel discomforted. She wasn't sure if she should feel sorry or be invested to begin with for Arcelia's predicament. But what she did know was that seeing the Dratini having such family issues was something that was not easy to turn away from.

Carla looked over at Wendy, seeing her contemplation. 'Wendy…'

To a degree, Wendy practically felt the discontent in Arcelia. As such, she slowly moved a hand and rubbed the top of the Dratini's head. "Listen, it'll be okay. I know just how you feel…my own mom did something similar to me."

Arcelia glanced over at her. "Really? Like what?"

Wendy looked down, reminiscing of the Tartarus incident. "Well, at first, I thought that she left me alone. But it took me a while to understand why she left to begin with."

Arcelia's eyes widened, showing genuine curiosity. "And…what was that reason?"

"Er…how should I put this…? I wouldn't be the same as I am today. All that time that I was growing, she was making sure she was nearby to make sure that I was doing it properly. It wasn't because she didn't think little of me. Actually, it's the opposite." She looked up, smiling with pride. "She was helping me grow, until she knew I could fully take care of myself."

She turned towards Arcelia again, offering her supportive grin. "Your mother is just worried about your well-being, I'm sure about that. You just have to prove to her that you can take care of yourself. If that happens, I'm sure she'll come around."

Arcelia gasped. "Y-you sure?" She looked down, uncertain. "But…I'm not sure how."

"Well, you could-"

Wendy never got to finish before Carla looked towards the sky. "Wendy, look out!"

The call barely alerted everyone present. By the time Wendy looked up, she and Arcelia saw an oncoming multicolored beam with a draconic head aiming right towards the former. Swablu and Amaura were able to react in time and fire a combination of Disarming Voice and Icy Wind to spread a large-scale, cold air blast with pink hearts. The unison attack met the intended target and intercepted dead-center, creating a large smoke burst above everyone's heads.

With the time gained from the interception, Wendy shot to her feet with a gasp. Carla, Swablu, and Amaura looked just as alarmed.

Within the dispersing smoke, they recognized a glowing blue orb that shimmered brightly.

"Is that…?" Wendy stepped back.

"I think so…" Carla trailed off, knowing where this was going.

They all watched the smoke slowly fade away. In the air several meters above them was none other than Adelita. The Dragonair's orbs on her neck and tail shimmered as the wings on her head flapped to keep her airborne over their field of vision.

Arcelia's eyes widened as she gasped, almost dropping the bento box she still had wrapped up. "M-Mom!?"

Adelita shared a similar gasp, recognizing her own kin. "Arcelia…?" She was genuinely shocked to find her daughter out in the open, especially given the firm warning she gave her earlier. The momentum shifted to defense the moment she saw Wendy's party. "You all again…what the hell is the meaning of this!? I thought I told you to stay home, Arcelia!"

"But Mom, listen! It wasn't my fault! I was chased out of the house! I couldn't-!" Arcelia's excuse was cut off the moment her mother's glare sharpened. It was like a spell was cast that immediately sucked the small amount of assertiveness out of Arcelia's soul to leave her quivering.

With her daughter silenced, Adelita turned her focus onto Wendy's party. "You. You're with that bunch that made a fool out of me before. But don't worry, I'll make sure that mistake is corrected here and now."

Wendy bent her knees as she braced herself. There was no way out of this now.

Arcelia began to show panic, seeing the anger of her mother directed towards Wendy.

"Arcelia! Quick, you need to go hide!" Wendy encouraged.

"I-I know, but-!"

Before she could finish here plea, her mother suddenly spurred down towards Wendy. Her entire body rotated and gathered momentum as spiraling water surrounded her tail, via Aqua Tail. The Sky Dragon Slayer promptly acted and dodged the overhead tail slam as it crashed into the ground between her and Arcelia, much like a strong tidal wave.

Once again, Arcelia tensed up in shock at the assault. Wendy landed with her knees bent and posture fixed in case of another attack.

In a hurry, Arcelia quickly spoke up. "Mom, wait! She wasn't trying to hurt me! She isn't cruel!"

Adelita kept her glare fixed on Wendy as she spoke. "Not right now, young lady. Mommy is working here. You get back this instant! This is too dangerous for you to be out here!"

"But Mom, wait! Listen to have I have to say!" Arcelia pleaded, but didn't earn her mother's interests.

"You want my baby? You're gonna have to go through me…you little flesh witch!" Adelita's spiteful glare highlighted itself from the orb's blue glow on her neck.

Wendy didn't take her eyes off her opponent. The way she was positioned made it clear that she was being territorial. "Arcelia was right about her…haven't come across a mother this apprehensive before." She muttered low so the comment was kept to herself.

"We need to be careful, Wendy. Remember, she can control the weather." Carla reminded her.

"Got it. Then let's go for this!" Wendy crossed her arms as a magical green aura engulfed her. Her magic focused a on a seal that appeared in front of her.

"O swift wind that dashes through the heavens…VERNIER!"

The enchantment activated, enveloping Wendy herself, Carla, Swablu, and Amaura in magical auras that made them feel lighter and faster. With the added boost to their mobility, the four suddenly spurred after Adelita so fast that it was almost impossible to keep track.

Arcelia looked on, startled. 'Wait a second, can they all use Agility too? How are they moving so fast like that?!'

The four raced around Adelita, keeping the Dragonair from having a solid visual, let alone an ideal target to lock onto. All that sped around her were three multicolored figments overhead, followed by one on the ground pacing in quick spurs. Suddenly, Carla broke from the melee and shot down with a crescent axe kick.

"White Moon!"

Adelita was taken back by how fast the feline-human's attack was coming down. At the last second before it could strike her head, she weaved to her right, allowing Carla's glowing white kick to to come full circle.

'She was still able to dodge even with that speed?!'

With her fixation on the Exceed, Adelita was exposed from behind, which Wendy took to her advantage and channeled whirlwinds around her body. She spread her arms with a loud cry, sending a rushing wave of air towards the Dragonair.

However, Adelita glanced behind, her scowl sharpening. The orbs on her body shined brightly before a pressurized typhoon circulated around her, blocking off the air wave entirely. Wendy and her team looked shocked to see the sudden weather formulate around the Dragonair.

Adelita let out a loud scowl, expanding and manipulating the typhoon that howled like it was in a large of its own. The cyclonic maelstrom pushed Swablu and Amaura away with little resistance. It didn't take long for even Carla to fold and get blown away as well.

"Carla! Swablu! Amaura!" Wendy cried out, before she saw the typhoon morph around her. She looked around, seeing she was completely blocked off by the strong winds swirling around her and her team. The four found themselves cornered completely by walls of intense wind pressure keeping them confined to one place.

Carla was able to rebound from the recoil, scanning their swirling surroundings. "A typhoon shield?"

"Is this what you meant before when she could control the weather, Carla?" Wendy asked.

Carla nodded, her eyes narrowing. "Yeah, only before she could make storms and raging waves…now she can mold wind."

Wendy fell to gradual silence as she scanned their predicament.

Outside the cyclone wall's tall reaches, Adelita was on the ground, scoffing at the feeble effort it took to suppress them. "Hmph, that'll hold them for a while."

Arcelia squirmed up to her mother's side, looking horrified. "Mom, wait! What are you doing?!"

Adelita glanced down at her. "I thought I told you to stay back, young lady! You're not supposed to be outside to begin with! This is far too dangerous for you to handle!"

"I don't care! What are you doing to them!? You're gonna kill them if you don't stop!"

When Adelita could feel her daughter's persistent stare fixed on the back of her head, she wanted so badly to suppress that. But it would cost her focus on maintaining the tempest keeping the intruders at bay. The Dragonair's ill-patience was starting to show again, and of all places it had to be when she was working right before her daughter's eyes. It was getting tedious!

"Arcelia…" Adelita spoke in a low, demanding tone, enough to make her daughter stop in her tracks. "I told you…humans are not to be messed with. I will not allow them to ruin anymore lives…not while I'm here."

It felt as though the world slowed to a halt around Arcelia. She saw the look in her mother's eye that was fixed on the typhoon. It wasn't like the usual scowl she would have gotten, no. This was something deeper…deep enough to make her feel uncomfortable, in more ways than one. Why did she feel like her mother wanted to murder these guys just for being around her? The Dratini knew them well enough that Wendy couldn't possibly be as her mother said. So why would she attack them?

It was then that her brain started churning with puzzle pieces connecting. 'I knew Mom was aggressive and extremely strict. She couldn't have attacked Wendy out of spite, right?' It was then a piece clicked into her brain. 'Wait a second, they came from the sea, and my mom works there. She said she was guarding the island…'

Gradually, pieces started clicking inside her head. The more she thought about it, the more painfully obvious it became for the Dratini's young mind. Her mother's job, attacking Wendy, the constant storms that raged along the island…her mother's ill-fondness of humans…the rumors of not a single ship getting through…

"You. You're with that bunch that made a fool out of me before. But don't worry, I'll make sure that mistake is corrected here and now."

The last piece clicked into place. She finally understood it now, what her mother's 'job' was. It left her so shocked that she involuntarily squirmed a few feet away. "M-Mom…don't tell me…your job is…"

Adelita hastily glanced back at her. "My job is to protect my precious baby from the dangers of this world! That's the meaning of being a parent! Now get out of here, NOW!"

Arcelia grew more fearful by the second, but it didn't stop the realization from sputtering out. "So then…this whole time…don't tell me your job was…"

"Arcelia…please, don't make me say it. I don't want my baby getting hurt…" She trailed off to the unprecedented sounds of something bizarre. Something that sounded like…slurping?

When she turned back towards the typhoon restraining her soon-to-be victims, she was left stunned when the typhoon was visibly shrinking. It shrank until there was a noticeable visage of a human mouth that was sucking in all the air around her.

"I-Impossible…" Adelita stared in sheer disbelief as she watched the tempest gradually vanish to thin air, literally.

With one final gulp, Wendy swallowed the air and sighed. She faced the Dragonair once more with a rejuvenated glare. "That sure was a lot to swallow." She admitted.

Adelita, however, continued to stare at the girl in disbelief. 'No way, that can't possibly be…I've heard of humans in this world containing magical abilities that makes them more dangerous, but to eat air…?'

"Great job, Wendy!" Carla chimed. "Her usage of winds will be completely ineffective like this!"

"Yeah, true. But she can still probably use other elements too. We need to make sure that she can't." Wendy swiped her arm out. "Then let's try this! Swablu, quick! Use Sing!"

"Gotcha, Wendy!" Swablu chirped as she ascended into the air above her trainer. She closed her eyes and let out a merry, soothing, melodic hum that resonated through the air. Notes became visible as they traveled through the air towards Adelita. They moved extra fast due to the spell Wendy cast earlier to help them all with their Speed.

The Dragonair was able to recover from her initial shock in time to notice the musical wave heading her way. She spread the wings atop her head and took flight once more, ascending above the notes' range.

"Now Amaura, Icy Wind!" Amaura followed up at Wendy's behest. She opened her mouth as it glowed bright blue, expelling another frosty blue breeze.

Though the attack had visibly gotten faster as well, Adelita was still nimble and swift. She careened her head back as multicolored energy congregated at her mouth, charging for a high-speed Dragon Pulse. The attack fired with a beaming, jagged head and mouth wide open straight into the Icy Wind, generating a multicolored flash that dropped the temperature around everyone by a few degrees.

Arcelia was well enough away to not feel the drawbacks of the shockwaves, but she couldn't help but stay put in fear for her own life.

The interception's aftermath left dazzling multicolored specks to fall between the two parties. Adelita squinted with a dense scowl. Carla immediately noticed how her tail was starting to sway.

"Wendy, heads up! She's about to use Dragon Tail!" she warned. She recognized the attack from before…and frankly, she did not want to be on the receiving end of it again.

Wendy balled her fists as she braced herself. "Ready!"

"GRAH!" Adelita suddenly swerved after them, her tail glowing with vibrant green energy scales morphing around her actual tail. She closed the gap for a swing on Swablu and Amaura, but their increased Speed made them wary and pull back. She then took a swing at Wendy, who ducked the first swipe, then leaned her entire back to avoid the second swipe. When a third swipe happened, Wendy did a sudden pivot and sidestepped the tail slam. She did a small leap onto the tail and used it as a springboard to jump above Adelita.

Whirlwinds began charging around her leg as she brought it down with a strong, speedy kick.

"Sky Dragon's Claw!"

"Aqua Tail!"

At the last second, Adelita swiped her tail upwards, coated in spiraling water. The whirlwind kick and wave tail met centerfield yet again. However, unlike the draw the previous attack brought on, the difference was made clear when Adelita was losing her momentum quickly.

'No, I don't have enough momentum…!'

"Haaaah!" Wendy followed through with her kick, making a burst of water that dispersed the Aqua Tail and forced Adelita several meters away through midair to a halt. The Dragonair grunted in a mixture of pain and annoyance as she barely caught herself from falling.

"You little brat…!"

"Mom…!" Arcelia gasped. She looked between Wendy and her own mother, horrified at the realization brought about her. 'What should I do? What can I do? My mom is deliberately trying to kill them, and Wendy is gonna hurt my mom, too…what should I…?'

Wendy reached out ahead of her for another attack. "Amaura, quick! Aurora Beam!"

Amaura huffed as she spread her heels. She opened her mouth as she channeled cold energy to a singular beam. Once it was fully charged, she let out a loud cry as a black and green blast like a borealis fired at Adelita.

Once again, Adelita careened back and lurched forward, spewing another Dragon Pulse. The head of the attack snaked its way towards the beam and chomped down on the front. However, unlike before, a small burst occurred, but neither attack let up.

"Now Swablu, go!" Wendy followed up.

"Okay!" Swablu glided past her trainer and teammates. She hummed as her body had a faint glow around it. "Take Down!"

Adelita saw the charging Swablu heading her way. She narrowed her eyes in another scowl before she decided to do something about it. Suddenly, she craned her head upwards, forcing the Dragon Pulse to angle itself and Amaura's Aurora Beam higher into the air.

Wendy gasped. "Swablu, look out!"

"Eh?" Swablu barely caught the approaching collision's center getting closer to her. "EEP!" She forcefully pulled herself out of her charge and looked up in shock as the angled shot continued climbing past her. She and everyone looked on as the stalemate ultimately gave in high above, creating a multicolored, vibrant flash that erupted into smoke.

"Why must you make life so difficult?" Adelita snarled. "It would be easier for us all if you just surrendered yourselves! Maybe at least you would be placed in cubes than face judgment!"

Wendy didn't have time to properly answer when she saw Adelita glide after her with another Aqua Tail. Wendy countered by making whirlwinds surround her arm as she raked her fingers in a slashing motion.

"Sky Dragon's Crushing Fang!"

The pressurized wind slash blocked off the Aqua Tail's dense force, causing another draw. They both pulled back by a few feet to collect themselves before Adelita continued.

"There're families here that are hurt because of what you humans did to them! It would be a lot easier for everyone if you just accepted your place!" Adelita swerved her glowing tail around yet again, via Dragon Tail, but Wendy was still too fast to be struck as she pulled away in time.

"We're hurt too, you know!" she countered. "Our friends got brainwashed and tried to hurt us, too! We're here to put a stop to that!"

"That's right!" Amaura shouted.

"Wendy's head is too soft to want to hurt again! Whoever did this, they'll pay!" Swablu added, a surprisingly angry tone in her chirpy voice.

Meanwhile, Arcelia continued observing. She wasn't able to do anything physically, but she was still alert. What they were all saying was sticking to her like glue…and it continued to ache her innocent heart even more. 'Is that why they're here? Someone actually made that happen…?'

Adelita scoffed. "Your human problems aren't mine. The only thing that matters to me…" She flapped her wings again, taking off to another ascension. The higher she got, the brighter her orbs glowed. A small thundercloud gathered above her that swirled menacingly. "…is making a safe haven for myself and daughter!"

Wendy's eyes shot wide open as she realized what was going on. The hairs on the back of her neck were standing up in horror. "Look out-!"

The light of the orbs intensified. A split-second later, a massive discharge of lightning bolts shot down through the cloud past Adelita into the direct line of Wendy. The entire body was left petrified as bright bolts crashed into the ground around them. Just being close to them caused a small rise of heat waves, affectively returning the temperature to normal. The lightning bolts fired at a consistent basis to where there no openings for Wendy to strike without having to dodge.

The lightning continued raining down past the Dragonair at a bombastic rate. Every time the lightning struck the ground, it left a sizzling scorch mark on the pavement. It was making Every ounce of awareness for Wendy and the others to be wary of the bolts' trajectories and dodge.

Wendy stepped back just as a lightning bolt nearly struck her feet, 'First wind, now lightning?!'

Carla grunted as she had no recourse but to cover herself. The discharge above completely grounded her as lightning dragged itself all around her.

Amaura looked left and right, panicking as she didn't have any means to maneuver as she did before. She was practically pinned in place as multiple bolts fired around her. If she stepped out of line, she'd be fried!

'Hmph, that'll hold them still. Now then…' She turned towards the petrified Amaura first. "I'll start with you."

"Huh?" Amaura glanced up, but was too wary to react.

"Amaura, look out!" Wendy called out.

Adelita swung her tail and pointed it directly at Amaura. "Thunder Wave!" Her tail exerted bright yellow, electrified rings of electricity that channeled their way down towards Amaura. The Tundra Pokémon, with no recourse but to stand there and take it, closed her eyes and braced for the Electric-type move's force to overwhelm her.

It wasn't excruciating, but as soon as the rings met her body, an electric field rippled around her, crackling static that clung to her frame. Her grunts were made painfully clear as the discharge of ions around her faded to thin air. The static remained, however.

"Amaura!" Wendy panicked.

"She's alright! She's just paralyzed! But she needs cover, now!" Carla insisted.

Adelita turned her attention onto Swablu. "Now, you."

Swablu meekly chirped, but she didn't waver. She beat her wings so that she was a few feet off the ground in case she still had a small chance to get away in time.

Wendy looked distressed as she looked between her paralyzed Amaura, and Swablu, who was being targeted by the same move. If this kept up, they'd all be stiff and practically incapable of avoiding Adelita's onslaughts. They needed to do something, and fast!

'This is bad. I have to stop that paralysis. I can use my magic, but I can only heal one at a time. How do I…!' An epiphany came to light. 'Wait a minute…yeah, that's right! There's a move we haven't tried yet!'

"This will hold you down!" Adelita lowly roared.

"Wendy!" Swablu panicked.

'Well, here goes nothing!' Wendy didn't hesitate with the next command. "Now Swablu, Safeguard!"

Swablu's eyes suddenly widened. She understood what Wendy wanted her to do and lifted up her spirits again. "Yeah! Hrah!" She beat her wings once more, this time creating a thin, bright green forcefield that protected herself.

However, the innovation wasn't enough to stop Adelita's momentum. Her tail pointed its course at the shield and fired another round of Thunder Wave. The electric rings shot swiftly at Swablu's forcefield and made contact. However, much to Adelita's shock, the electric rings were absorbed by the Safeguard's barrier. By the time the rings were all diffused through the shield, all that remained were only a few static crackles across the shield's surface that quickly faded away.

"What?!" Adelita exasperated.

"Hehehe! That was flashy!" Swablu merrily chimed.

Carla's eyes slowly widened, realization dawning. "She wasn't paralyzed at all! Wendy…" She turned towards Wendy, who looked positive about it all.

"Phew…that was a close call. Luckily I remembered that move was something Swablu had up her sleeve." Wendy explained. "I can heal ailments, but Safeguard can stop them completely from happening."

Adelita's ire started showing again. "You…!"

"Go now, Swablu!" Wendy encouraged.

"Right!" With a soft beat of her wings, Swablu took off after the Dragonair that was well above her. She didn't seem to show any hesitation, even with the dragon's superior size and weight being a hinderance. She flew in headstrong and ready to take her.

"Get away already!" Adelita snapped, her orb shimmering bright blue again. Once again, another forceful blast of lightning shot down from the sky, intending to strike Swablu.

The Cotton Bird Pokémon continued her ascent as she fluttered off to the side. The large bolt barely missed her by a few inches, but she adjusted her course and glided close enough to where she was elevated with Adelita. As soon as she was within range, she spread her wings to keep herself elevated.

Adelita shot her a wary glare. "What do you think you're doing?"

"This!" Swablu let out an elongated chirp, her body suddenly giving off a faint blue, reflective flash. The flash emitted a dark portal with a white outline that pointed directly at the Dragonair. Adelita was left surprised until she saw electrical rings channel directly at her.

"What-?!" Before she could finish her exclamation, the Dragonair was struck by the electric rings. The discharge of ion rippled around her in a field that crackled with electricity. She let out a strained grunt as she felt her body tense up from the paralysis.

Carla observed the sight, gasping. 'I've never seen Swablu use an attack like that before. Did she just learn Thunder Wave, too?'

'That portal…could that be a new move?' Wendy pulled out her PokeDex to analyze what she had just seen. Her eyes widened when the analysis was almost instant. "That move was… 'Mirror Move'. It copies the last attack played before it." She looked up at Swablu, amazed. "Oh wow, that's incredible…"

Wendy was almost too shocked at the revelation that she almost overlooked the clouds overhead fading away. "Amaura, I'm coming!"

"W-Wendy…" Amaura groaned. She was completely stiff, with crackling static keeping her from going anywhere.

Wendy hurriedly rushed over, instantly using her Healing Magic. "Stay still, I got this!" Using her energy waves, she transmitted the healing energy throughout Amaura's entire body. Gradually, the strain on her body was starting to fade away, until finally, the static faded altogether.

Amaura looked down at herself, looking happy again. "I feel better! Thank you, Wendy!"

"Yeah, no problem." Wendy turned towards Adelita, with Swablu descending beside her. "Now, let's knock this dragon out of the sky!"

"Yeah!"

Wendy began sucking in a large amount of air, while Amaura and Swablu charged up their own attacks in conjunction. With Adelita's mobility thwarted, they had a clear unison shot.

"Sky Dragon's Roar!"

"Disarming Voice!"

"Aurora Beam!"

All three launched their attacks at the same time in a straight line. The cyclonic roar between the two arrays of attack caused the condensed borealis and the heart-filled soundwaves to be drawn into it. The range of the roar grew more as it was surrounded by the Disarming Voice's hearts, with the Aurora Beam as the base for the cyclone overall.

The roaring attack spearheaded across the sky directly into Adelita, who cringed from her paralysis. Her eyes gradually widened as she was unable to dodge in time. The unison attack struck her body, spearheading her through the atmosphere in a loud, shriveling shriek of pain that could be heard for blocks on end. An eruption of air pressure discharged upon impact, blasting her right out of the sky in a smoking heap. Everyone watched as she slammed into the ground in a bone-chilling crash into the pavement.

"MOM!" Arcelia panicked, rushing over to her aid.

The dust settled soon, revealing Adelita as she was barely keeping herself upright. She cringed as she felt the paralysis making her nerves slower to react. 'D-Damnit! They paralyzed me again! These damn humans and using our kind against us like that…!'

Arcelia squirmed up to her side, genuine concern on her face. "Mom, please stop this! Forget about your job, it's fine! Really!"

Adelita glanced with annoyance. "Arcelia…I said to stay back! Why don't you ever just listen to your mommy? You're making things more difficult than what they have to be, you know." The tone was as strained as her body, but she was profoundly fed up with this point.

Arcelia didn't listen. She continued pleading with a scared look in her eyes. "Will you just stop treating like I'm useless and listen to me just one time in your life!?" She snapped. "I'm telling you, this is just a big misunderstanding! Wendy isn't as mean as you say!"

"Arcelia…" Wendy trailed off, not wanting to interrupt the Dratini's plea.

Adelita continued glaring down her daughter. "And how would you know that?"

"B-Because, I…I mean…" Arcelia was about to stop, but she already knew it was too late. She decided to just spill it then and there. "B-Because she helped me!"

For a moment, the atmosphere grew awkwardly quiet. So quiet in fact, that one could potentially hear a pin drop. The combatants present felt the tension boiling between them, but now it felt like it was being barely contained. Wendy nor her Pokémon offered any words as they watched the exchange between mother and daughter.

In the deathly silence, the color on Adelita's face paled some. It was like somebody told her a ghost story. "…what was that?"

Arcelia gulped, but she applied assurance. 'Well, at least that got her attention.' She sighed, calming down a little to continue. "You know why I wasn't in the house? Those humans broke in and chased me out. I would have been in some serious trouble if Wendy didn't come when she did. She even healed my wounds, see?" She showed herself, her clear, unharmed skin restored. "It would have been really bad had it not been for her. And she did it because it was the right thing to do."

"Arcelia…" Wendy muttered low, touched to hear her plea for her sake.

"So Mom, please. Just this one time…can we just let this one go?"

Arcelia's plea hung through the humid air. The earlier lightning strikes zapped the area so much that it was heated and humid. If Adelita wasn't doing anything about this, it was a clear sign that she was still reeling from the shock. If it wasn't for Wendy being so sympathetic with Arcelia, she would have used the chance to attack, but she knew better than be so underhanded on such a genuine gesture.

'Arcelia…she really is a kind Pokémon.'

Arcelia's heart was racing. She looked at her mother with anticipation in her large eyes. The Dragonair's face was stone-cold as she was processing this information and slowly turned towards Wendy.

"I see…so that's how it is." She harrumphed. "My daughter speaks so highly of you…I'm not sure what exactly you did to win over my precious baby girl over, but I'll tell you this. That mistake…will never. Happen. Again."

"M-Mom?!" Arcelia panicked, but was cut short.

"I keep telling you, Arcelia. Humans will do anything in their power to turn your mind around. They can't be trusted!" She added a harsh emphasis as she shot hate-filled glares at Wendy. "I don't know what game you're playing by pretending to be nice, but I will not tolerate my own flesh and blood fraternizing with parasitic cretins like you!"

"Mom, no! Wait!"

Adelita refused to listen, instead careening her head back and lurching forward, expelling a spearing Dragon Pulse that roared its way across the ground. Wendy gasped in shock, but Swablu and Amaura slid in front to intercept. Swablu's body shimmered a reflective blue light as another portal opened up, via her knew Mirror Move. She fired a Dragon Pulse, whereas Amaura fired yet another Aurora Beam alongside it. The three attacks met centerfield, making a multicolored helix of energy that imploded on the spot. An eruption of smoke blanketed their surroundings.

Wendy covered herself as the smoke wave nearly pushed her back. "I wasn't trying anything, I promise! She was scared and in trouble, I had to do something!" Her Dragon Slayer senses picked up on an oncoming strike from ahead. She pulled back in time when Adelita broke through with Aqua Tail and slammed it into the ground.

"No, you didn't!" Adelita spread her wings to take flight once more. Her orb shined as stormclouds gathered above with dense lightning. "I'd sooner see this whole island tear itself apart before I even let you lay a single finger on my child!"

Wendy didn't have much time. She looked up as Adelita's orbs shined brighter by the second.

"DIE!"

At that instant, a ferocious bolt of lightning shot straight down onto Wendy solemnly. All her brown eyes caught was a swift yet sharp glance as the bolt met her. The instant it did, the discharge coursed through her body. "GAAAAAAAAAH!" Wendy's cries of pain were profuse as she felt the full impact of the lightning.

"Wendy!" Carla, Swablu, and Amaura panicked.

"NO!" Arcelia screamed in hysteria of her own. "MOM! STOP IT! STOP IT RIGHT NOW!"

Adelita refused to listen to her daughter's plea. Instead, the Dragonair's orb shined even brighter as her glare was fixed on Wendy alone. "It's for your own good, Adelita. You'll thank me later." She muttered lowly.

Wendy's body was on fire. She was stunned in place as she was taking the full impact of the lightning conducted onto her. The profuse impact alone was enough to kill any normal human being with how staggering and dense it was. But Wendy was resilient and had magic, that made her body hold out far more than the average human being. But even if that were the case, that didn't mean it felt like she was being crushed from the inside out by ions clashing around every inch of her body.

All Wendy could do was continue screaming in pain as the earth-crackling bolt made it hard for Swablu and Amaura to even look straight.

"Hang on, Wendy!" Spurring out of impulse, Carla dove for her friend in the lightning strike. The instant she touched her friend in an attempt to pull her out, she also felt the impact coursing through her. "AAAAAAAHHHH!"

Arcelia gasped in shock. "No…!"

Adelita narrowed her eyes. "Stupid fool."

"AAAAAAHHHHH!" Wendy and Carla cried out in pain together. It was excruciating, but neither had the nerves to let go of the other. They were clinging onto dear life on the spot. The two girls, however, managed to stand upright despite the intense pressure they were being put under by the voltage.

Swablu and Amaura could only watch with gaping horror as they watched their friends being put under deathly pressure before their eyes.

"W-Wendy…!" Carla's voice strained.

Fighting through the pain, Wendy managed to keep an eye open. "Car…la…"

Arcelia continued watching from afar, her fin-like ears twitching as she heard their raspy pleas. 'Are they still…!'

Carla clenched Wendy's clothing tighter, making a small tug through the pain. "C-c'mon, Wendy! We have to…keep going!"

"Carla…!"

"It's okay! We've…been through worse! We'll get through this, no matter what! Because…it's like you said…we're friends forever!"

Adelita's glare hardened. "Leave my daughter alone…and PERISH!" She began to thicken the lightning before her, making a stronger bolt that caused the two to scream in deeper agony.

Arcelia gasped again. She turned towards her mother, a plea in her teary eyes. "Mom! That's enough! This is going way too far!"

"Young lady, Mommy is busy. I'll deal with your disobedience later." She dismissed.

"No! They don't deserve this! Please, just stop before it's too la-!"

SMACK!

It wasn't harsh, but Arcelia felt the sharp smack of what felt like her mother's tail against her face. Time slowed down as the Dratini had fallen over, losing her grip on the bento box that she had been withholding the entire time. As she slunk over, the wrapped box tore open, spilling its contents all across the pavement.

Swablu and Amaura turned back, looking shocked at the sight. They both glanced at each other, then back at Adelita. They had enough! Swablu's body made a reflective coat that made another Mirror Move, which became an Aurora Beam. Amaura backed her up by firing an Ancient Power. The two attacks streamed after Adelita as she seemed aware and swerved away.

"Hmph! Poor aim." She scoffed…but that scoff became a cringe when a paralyzing static crackled around her, stunning her. "Gngh…!"

At last, the lightning finally stopped. The ground around Wendy and Carla was nothing more than a charred crater as they were both barely standing. Thanks to the Safeguard fading in and out around their bodies, they didn't feel numb nor deeply fried by the harsh wake the lightning could have done. Although they were both staggering from the voltage they had just taken.

"A-are you both okay?!" Swablu fret.

"Y-Yeah, don't worry…" Wendy put on her best smile, even though it felt like she was about to pass out. "We've dealt with worse…right, Carla?"

"Right…but had it not been for that Safeguard, our bodies would be in much worse shape." Carla admitted.

They both made an effort to stand straight, but they struggled to support themselves. Though, the important part was that they were still alive. That was something they could be grateful for.

Adelita grunted through the paralysis, her frustration rising by the second. "You…why can't you just die already?"

In her scorn and focus on the party before her, she was completely ignoring Arcelia. The Dratini was coming back to her senses as her right cheek stung from the harsh smack that she received not even a minute ago. Her eyes fluttered open as she stirred on the ground.

"Gnnnngh…o-ow…" Arcelia slowly got back up. When she did, she noticed something immediately off. "Wait, the bento…!"

When she turned her head, her once proud gaze for making the bento she worked so hard for her mother…was tarnished. It was nothing more than a cloth stained by a broken box with an assortment of rice, vegetables, and other food groups inside that were scattered and filthy.

At that instant, it felt as though the whole world stopped around her. She helplessly stared in a mixture of fixation and horror as a light gasp escaped her mouth. Everything that she had worked for had literally been thrown away. Everything inside her body started twitching, as if an impulse was reacting to the sheer heartbreaking feelings swelling inside her head.

Slowly, tears started to silently shed down her cheeks. She was so speechless, unable to speak words properly. What the hell just happened? She worked so hard to please her demanding and overbearing mother, and this was how she was thanked. A smack across the face, and a perfectly humble sign of appreciation and hard efforts being turned to trash.

SNAP!

By the sound of a thread snapping, something switched inside Arcelia's head. Her eyes remained wide as she was looking back on everything up to this point.

For as long as she could remember, she never had any company besides her own mother. The only other creature that she knew of well enough was her mother. No outside contact. No friends. No other family. It was just her and her mother.

"It's okay, it's gonna be okay…Mommy will protect you…she'll always protect you…"

Those words she heard of since childhood never left her mind. They were stuck to her like glue. Though at one time she didn't mind…but now it was like a hollow echo through an endless cave. Suffocating. Depressing. Aggravating…emotions she never felt before bubbling towards the surface the more she thought about her life revolving around her mother.

"She was helping me grow, until she knew I could fully take care of myself."

She then thought about what Wendy said. She slowly turned back towards the human. She wasn't in the best shape, but she was resilient enough to still be standing. And supposedly didn't have her mother around like she did. She was actually holding her own independence. To be so strong, and at such a young age…it was envious.

Her head subconsciously turned towards her mother, and there was painted a look of sheer ire on the Dragonair's face. Not like Wendy's genuine smile she was given before. The discouraging visage of someone who looked like she had a vendetta against the world.

It had to end. Now.

"GNNAAAAAAAAAAAH~!" Unable to hold back her anguish anymore, Arcelia let out a loud cry that immediately brought a halt to the battle's momentum. Everyone's eyes widened as they all turned towards the tear-stained face the Dratini was bearing.

"Arcelia?!" Adelita gasped.

"W-what's wrong…?" Wendy mumbled. She noticed the broken bento box that was a few feet away from her. She immediately connected the dots. "Oh no…"

In her wild cry, Arcelia felt energy channeled from her bodily reaction. She felt the energy surround her tail in green, draconic scales that layered over the tail's tip, elongating it into a whip. It caught Wendy's eye again.

'That move…'

"GRAAAAAH! MOM!" In her grief and rage, Arcelia sprung after her mother, swinging the appendage around and closed the gap. "JUST…STOP IT!"

Adelita was too stunned at her daughter rushing after her. She was about to react, but her paralysis took over again, making her immobile and vulnerable to the Dratini wildly swinging her tail around from the side and smacked it against the side of her head. The force was so strong that an airwave went through the other side. Adelita felt everything go blank as time slowed down for everyone to bear witness to the tail slam out of impulse.

"Gngh…GAAAAAAH!" Arcelia followed through, swinging with the momentum to send Adelita spiraling into a nearby building. She crashed straight through the ceiling and crippled the flooring immediately, sending her to the base level with a loud smash of debris inside.

Everyone stared at the sight, completely speechless at what they just saw. They looked like they had just seen a crime upfront and couldn't process it all.

'That move…did she just learn Dragon Tail on the spot?' Wendy thought.

Arcelia landed on the ground, her breath labored. Tears continued down her face as the scaly energy tail faded away. After catching her breath for about to minute, she gasped at the reality of what she had just done. "I-I…I just…"

"Arcelia…?"

Arcelia gasped and turned towards the others. If her face wasn't pale already, it was now. "Y-you guys…I wasn't…I didn't mean…" She sputtered words, but wasn't able to make a coherent sentence. She closed her eyes and turned away from them. "I-I'm so sorry!"

She started for the nearest alley, leaving the others baffled as she went about her way in grief.

"Arcelia, wait up!" Wendy stumbled forward, but almost tripped.

"Wendy…!" Carla looked concerned at her friend.

"I'm fine, Carla! C'mon, let's go get her!" In urgency, Wendy tailed after Arcelia down the same alley. Carla followed behind, still staggering as much as she was. Amaura and Swablu were quick to follow them in pursuit.

Meanwhile, in the building's debris, Adelita laid in the center of the first floor, groaning in pain. She was reeling badly as she was barely conscious. Her entire body ached from that nasty fall. She was completely off guard by that last attack, for numerous reasons she could barely process.

As she was struggling to get up, the paralysis clung her to the ground. 'D-Damnit…damnit! Why…? What just…?' She suddenly realized something. The last attack that hit her…came from her daughter.

She struggled even more, but the grief, anger, and confusion wasn't enough to support her. All she could do was raise her head and shout out towards the open hole in the ceiling.

"ARCELIA~!"


Wendy panted as she raced down the alley after the fleeing Dratini. With how taxed her body was after taking all that lightning, it was no wonder why she was much slower than her usual speed. Thankfully though, the Safeguard saved her from serious and long-lasting effects.

"W-Wendy? Are you both okay…?" Swablu quipped behind them, looking genuinely worried for her trainer and Carla.

Wendy looked over her shoulder, offering a small smile. "Y-yeah, don't worry about it just. I'm fine, really." She assured, glancing back ahead. "Just gonna be a while before we're back up to speed, that's all."

The others weren't so easily convinced. Carla knew how tough and stubborn Wendy could be at times. She would try better to save face than admit that she needed crutches, but being part of Fairy Tail pushed her limits to where she didn't show any such weaknesses in desperate time. Her battle against Ezel was proof of that.

Up ahead, Carla saw something against a dead-end. "Wendy, up there!"

Everyone looked ahead and saw what Carla was referring to. They slowed to a stop several feet away from what looked like Arcelia, who was turned away from them with her head down. It was also faint, but Wendy's perceptive hearing picked up the low whimpers she was giving off. She could tell what was going on.

The Dratini was lost in her own grief. So much had happened in the last half hour that she could barely wrap her head around it all. The first thing she knew, she was grounded by her mother for no reason other than not allowing her to be outside, and the next thing was seeing herself attack her out of impulse. It was more than just a failure as a daughter, it was downright embarrassing!

'I can't believe I actually did that…what have I done? Mom is definitely going to ground me for life.' The Dratini in distress grew uneased with the fate in store for her.

"Um, Arcelia…?" A soft voice cooed from behind.

"H-Huh?" Arcelia glanced back, her tear-stained eyes having enough vision to recognize Wendy. "W-Wendy…" She turned away immediately. "I-I'm not decent right now."

"Uh, yeah…sorry about that." Wendy rubbed the back of her head awkwardly as she tried to think of the most subtle thing to say. "Um, listen, Arcelia, about what happened…we're really sorry about what happened with your mother."

Arcelia sniffled, but didn't turn back towards them. "What's that supposed to mean?"

"Oh, I mean…well, we knew that she was your mother. Honestly, we weren't trying to fight her at all. But…"

"We weren't given a choice." Carla intervened to get to the point. "This has nothing to do with what you had done. Quite frankly, we don't blame you for that."

Arcelia blinked some tears away as she glanced at Carla. "Y-you don't…?"

"Nope." Swablu chirped.

"She was really mean. She hurt Wendy. Thank you for helping us." Amaura grinned.

"Uh…yeah. I guess that's one way of putting it." Wendy responded while scratching her cheek with her index finger. "N-Not to say that it wasn't supposed to be personal or anything! Sorry for everything! We were just trying to defend ourselves is all…you understand, right?"

Arcelia paused as she looked down, thinking for a moment of what the others were saying. "No…you're right. My mother was a horrible figure to begin with. I knew she wouldn't stop until she had her way, but what she did to you guys…there's no way I can see her the same again. She just so…so…"

Wendy frowned. She couldn't help but feel remorse for Arcelia, especially with what she had went through. All that trouble to preserve such a small token of what love she had for her mother's well-being and was repaid by such a display. It was truly heartbreaking.

After a failed attempt to find her words, Arcelia just stood there, her head down in defeat. "I'm so sorry everyone. You were all just being nice to me…and what you said before gave me some hopes that my mom would come around." She closed her eyes, the last of her tears dripping to the ground. "You guys aren't in the wrong here…if it wasn't for me being so curious, then maybe this wouldn't have…"

Carla put her hands to her hips. "Come now, that's no reason to be blaming yourself."

"B-but I…"

"Yeah, Carla's right. You were doing everything you could for your mom. You can't be at fault for just worrying." Wendy insisted.

Arcelia looked at them all, feeling another wave of awe and relief wash over her. The Dratini shut her eyes and shook her head to rid the last of the tears before facing them again. She was still clearly hurt, but she was not a baby girl like her mother perceived her. She needed to prove her wrong.

"Your mother is just worried about your well-being, I'm sure about that. You just have to prove to her that you can take care of yourself. If that happens, I'm sure she'll come around."

What Wendy said before clung to her mind. 'Prove to her in my own way…' A sound resolution came to her mind. She calmed down and looked more emotionally quelled at everyone again. "Okay then…if that's how it is, I guess there's only one choice left for me to make."

Wendy raised an eyebrow. "What are you saying?"

Arcelia gave her a serious look. "Let me help you guys. I know I can be of some help. I'm not completely helpless like my mom thought. And besides…you stood up for me and had faith in me…can I at least return the favor?"

"Wait, for real?" Carla questioned.

"Are you sure about this?" Wendy asked.

Arcelia responded with a firm nod. "Yeah, I am." She lowered her head, scoping left and right with unnerved glances. "I-I honestly don't know what exactly is going on, but my mom kept me in the dark all this time…but, if I can still be of any help, I want to prove that. If not to her, then to myself." She slithered closer towards her. "So, Wendy, can you give me a chance…please?"

Everyone was silent as they heard her resolution-turned-plea. They turned towards Wendy as she looked like she was debating it over for a second. But after that second, it was like a no-brainer decision was made. She offered Arcelia an encouraging smile. "Yeah, of course you can."

Arcelia gasped. "Y-you really mean it?!"

"Yeah, definitely. Honestly, we need all the help that we can get."

"Geez, this won't complicate things." Carla mused, heavy sarcasm in her dry tone.

Wendy continued. "We'll fill you in on everything as we go along. For now, let's say we get going." She turned towards Swablu and Amaura. "What do you guys think?"

"Yay! We have a friend!"

"She's a good friend. I like it!"

Wendy sheepishly giggled. "Guess that settles it." She turned towards Dratini, holding out her hand. "So, you wanna help us?"

Dratini paused, staring at her in awe. The way the sun's rays were beaming behind her brightened up her surroundings. She almost had the same angelic visage of an angel that had come to save her.

"Y-Yes…I will."

She reached out her tail slowly towards the hand before her, giving a proper shake.


Elfman threw another forceful blow that met Bruce's outstretched hand. The impact made another airwave dissipate around them, but the muscular guy was still unfazed and packed full of bloodthirst.

"C'mon, is that all you got in that form!?" Bruce taunted. "I barely felt the wind in that one! Try harder!"

Elfman gnashed his rows of sharp teeth. No matter how many punches he threw at this guy, he just wasn't feeling them. Either he was just baiting him to exert more strength, or he was just really physically tough. It was hard to tell. All Elfman could do was attack to try and figure this guy out.

"Strength!" Machoke flexed his body, a faint white aura enveloping him that defined his muscular frame. He approached Martial with a strong fist, to which Martial countered with a glowing fist of his own.

"Brick Break!"

The two Pokémon intercepted one another, creating a shockwave that fanned out at their feet. The two were in a deadlock stare that neither pulled away from.

"Show me more of your training!" Martial challenged.

"You don't have to tell me twice!"

Machoke unleashed superpowered blows with his fists and arms, meeting Martials' chops and blows that held back his brute strength. The two kept trading blows to get a hit in, but neither backed down to allow such an opportunity. The Fighting-types let out a unison yell as they traded another set of blows. "GRAH!"

"GRAAAAAHHH!" The Beast Soul Take-Over howled mightily as he unleashed a ferocious punch once more, this time into Bruce's face. The fist met the mage's left cheek with a bone-snapping impact. It had so much force behind it that a small gust expelled from around them.

Elfman clenched his teeth as heated breath escaped from the sides. He looked worn out, if not peeved enough with how his attacks hadn't worn this brute out just yet. But from the looks the punch had on his face, he finally must have scored something critical.

"…that all you got?"

Elfman's eyes snapped wide open in shock. Still standing before him, Bruce's face was only pushed away, but his body was still standing. At best, the blow landed on his face left only a faint bruise. Just how tough was this guy?!

"A little advice, big guy. You ever wanna make an enemy really hurt, you've gotta know where to hit 'em where it really hurts for them." He clenched his right fist and reeled it back. "How's about I give you a demonstration?"

Elfman gasped.

"Bruce, Furious Jab!" Martial called out.

"PAY ATTENTION, BEAST DUDE! BECAUSE THIS IS HOW YOU WIN FIGHTS!" With Magic Power flowing through his knuckles, it all compressed into a single strong point in his right fist. With a ferocious pivot, Bruce unleashed an intense uppercut straight into Elfman's exposed abdomen, more specifically where the diaphragm was located. A dense airwave exploded out from the other side of him as the wind was literally knocked out of him.

Elfman's world slowed down for a few precious seconds as he gagged blood on the spot. Everything went black for him until he felt his airborne frame slam into the ground by his back. Another force of pain stunned him as he found himself unable to breathe properly.

"What the-?!" Machoke looked back, seeing his partner in distress.

"Hmph, it would seem that your partner lacks proper discipline." Martial explained, earning an irate glare from Machoke.

"What do you mean by that?"

"If he were disciplined and attentive to battle, he should have studied his opponent's style of combat and adapt to it. My human has two styles: one for a singular strong blow, and another for multiple blows in swift fashion. His spell range may be limited to those two attacks, but they cover each other's weak points."

Machoke scoffed. "Heh…so you've got some mechanics to your battling style, so what? It takes more than just fancy fist work to win a fight, you know! Like sheer guts!" He flexed his muscles, showing the numerous veins throbbing.

"Truthful words, yet spoken so poorly." Martial. "As it stands now, your merits don't hold such weight to your words. Your human's condition is proof of that."

"Hmph, you don't know my trainer as well as you think. He doesn't take crap lying down, just you wait and see." Machoke beamed, a roguish smirk crossing his face.

Martial narrowed his glare. On one hand, he genuinely respected this Machoke's confidence and fortitude. They were exemplary traits befitting to very prideful and promising fighters. But on the other hand, he felt annoyed how impulsive these three were behaving. At the very least, he had to respect their tenacity.

"I see…very well. Then I shall respond to your resolve in kind." Martial grabbed his belt's ends and pulled them, tightening his waist. "Focus Energy!"

An orange blow burst from the Sawk's body, briefly adding definition to the muscle all over his body. He balled both his fists tightly as he glared at Machoke with a sharper gaze than before. "Show me your merits, Machoke!"

"With pleasure!"

Meanwhile, Elfman had seen better days. He rolled onto his hands and knees, lurching as he coughed up the blood from that gruesome blow that had his head feeling warm and fuzzy. As he was trying to keep himself from falling unconscious, his body glowed and returned to its normal state.

Bruce took a step forward. "C'mon, that all you got? Don't tell me that you're down already!"

Elfman inhaled, only to cough again. He staggered back up and faced Bruce with shaken eyes. 'That…that seriously hurt. Thought I was dead there for a second. That Mach Arms Magic is no joke, for real.' If it wasn't for his own muscular physique, he would have felt even worse. He was sure he would have been lying on the floor and staying there. Though it was limited, his brain was jogging with ideas.…

'Those punches he throws are strong enough to knock me to the ground in one blow. And those fast volleys, don't give me any opening neither. And I can't risk using Bulldoze because of Machoke's No Guard, he'll get caught in the wake and lose Speed, too. In that case…'

Bruce took notice of how Elfman was finally back on his feet, a serious look in his eyes. He raised his fists readily once again. "Oh? You can take more? Good."

"Beast Soul: Weretiger!" Elfman's body glowed, transforming his figure into his humanoid muscular feline with spotted traits of a leopard. "If I can't overpower you, then I'll just outrun you! Just try and keep up now!"

"Ha! This should be good." Bruce sneered.

Elfman snarled low. He wasn't going to take this lying down. "Rhyhorn, charge in from the side!"

"Okay!" Rhyhorn didn't think about it too hard. Attack from the side. With a dense tug into the ground, he gathered momentum and charged with full force, making the ground shake as he barreled towards Bruce's right side.

Elfman spread his legs and lunged towards Bruce's left side. He moved at a much faster rate than he normally did, with his legs carrying him like a leopard running after its prey. The two closed the gap on Bruce as he looked between Rhyhorn and him to understand what was happening.

"A pincer attack, huh? Interesting…" Bruce muttered.

'Have to keep his focus on only one of us…' Elfman had his plan set. "Rhyhorn, go! Rock Blast!"

As he was charging, Rhyhorn snarled. He lowered his head and silver energy projected on the crest. He then fired more silverish, rock-like energy in rows of three at Bruce.

Martial used a Brick Break to deflect Machoke's own Brick Break and turned towards the ongoing strike. "Bruce, Bullet Fist!"

"This again? Seriously?!" Bruce saw the oncoming jets of rock energy and balled his fists. "Try something different, spiky! You're getting too predictable!" Once again, his fists coated in small magic seals. He let out loud grunts as he unleashed another round of high-speed volleys that thwarted the onslaught of rocks.

With his focus fixed on Rhyhorn, Elfman closed the gap. He rushed in and went for a strong lunge onto his prey. "HRAH!"

"Hngh?" Bruce glanced over his shoulder to see Elfman coming down on him with a clawed fist. With amazing reflexes, he caught the wrist from over his shoulder, startling Elfman.

"Nice try, tough guy! GRAAAAH!" Bruce grabbed Elfman with his other arm and pivoted. With all the might in his superb upper body, the Mach Arms Mage roared as he flipped Elfman overhead onto the oncoming Rhyhorn. The Spikes Pokémon didn't stop in time before Elfman's beastly frame came down onto him with sundering force, crushing both of them at one into the pavement.

The wake of the harsh dual slam simmered, allowing dust to cover Elfman as he rolled over onto his back with a grunt of pain. Rhyhorn laid beside him, looking disoriented, if not worn out himself.

"D-Damnit…"

"I'm not stupid, big guy…" Bruce scoffed. "You used that Rock Blast to distract me once. Fool me once, shame on me. Fool me twice, shame on you."

Elfman cursed himself. Despite how he looked, this guy actually knew how to fight. It was taking so much for him just to keep up. He staggered upright and roared furiously with dense swipes.

"Deflect them all!" Martial ordered.

Bruce balled his fists, focusing his magic and backhanded the large hands. Every swipe Elfman made was easy to predict and halted by Bruce's speedily powerful deflections and blocks to his wrist. He did it so much that it got to the point where Elfman felt his wrists starting to throb, making him wince.

"…too bad for you, big guy. I'm getting bored."

"Now, use Bullet Fist!" Martial ordered.

Bruce balled both his fists, readying to store more of his magic. With the limited amount of time he had before the impact, Elfman made a last-second change.

"Beast Soul: Lizardman!"

His body glowed brightly, morphing his feline frame into his muscular, scaled, humanoid lizard frame. Rows of dense, scaly spikes lines his arms and joints as he brought them up to cover for the blows.

'If I can take these like I did with that Bacchus guy, I can wear him down!'

Bruce closed the gap in the blink of an eye, unleashing a monstrous first blow that was so intense that it nearly snapped several spikes at once. The impact embedded into his scales that he felt instantly. His teeth clenched harshly as he tried his damnest not to let out a cry of agony.

The barrage had only just begun, and only a few punches in, Elfman felt his entire body taking blows that cracked and snapped scales to spliced bits. Even with his muscular frame and denser body mass, it didn't take even a few seconds for the melee of wrecking ball-like sonic flurry to pry open his weakpoints and bombard him off his feet, sending him speeding into the nearest building wall with a dense eruption of dust and debris.

Machoke and Rhyhorn look back, both shocked by the dense melee their trainer just took.

"Doesn't matter what game you pull…" Bruce taunted. As he spoke, the dust settled, revealing Elfman in his broken Lizardman form embedded into the depressed wall. His scaled were bleeding out, and all the spikes on his forearms were shattered completely. If it wasn't for his clenching teeth, he would have been considered unconscious. "…because if you can't throw a real punch, you aren't a real fighter."

Elfman was unable to respond with words. All he could do was gag blood from the shots that went right through his body.

"You bastards!" Machoke pulled back his fist as a dense aura enveloped him, via Strength. "TAKE THIS!"

He went for a direct blow to Martial's face; however, the impact was met with a firm Brick Break block. The two attacks were at a brief stalemate that lasted only a second. However, a critical force made Machoke pull his knuckles back in a slight recoil.

That was all the time needed for Martial to pivot and reaffirm his stance. "Allow me to show you the true extent of my own training!" His eyes snapped wide open as he prepared himself.

"CLOSE COMBAT!"

Martial unleashed a ferocious wave of chops, fists, and kicks into Machoke, who could only watch as he was off momentum. The barrage of intense blows met his face first, then his abdomen, then his gut. There was no part of his front abdominal half that wasn't safe from the horrendous melee of blows that produced air and harsh jerks of nerves from out his back. Those were all clear signs of critical hits that just didn't stop.

Elfman could barely keep his eyes open, but he could make out his Machoke taking the barrage as helplessly as he did a moment ago. "Machoke…"

Dozens of roundhouses and crosses later, Martial spun around and let out a loud shout. "HA!" He did a simple punch straight into Machoke's abdomen, finally sending the Superpower Pokmon off his feet sailing across the ground. He gagged as he slammed clean through a lamppost, snapping it and crashed into a building with an explosion of dust and brick from impact.

Martial exhaled through his mouth, relaxing his muscles as a blue aura briefly enveloped his body. The effect of Close Combat graciously reduces his defenses.

The dust eventually settled, revealing Machoke laying strewn on a pile of broken brick. His body was battered to where he was bruised from head to toe. He clenched his teeth so hard that it looked like he was trying to suppress a gag or cry of pain of his own.

Martial closed his eyes, a small sigh barely heard. "You may have lagged defense for strength…but you showed me no discipline of your own. How unfortunate."

Unable to keep his focus any longer, Elfman's Take-Over faded, revealing his bruised body strewn against the wall with blood dripping from the side of his lip. 'I'm…I'm sorry.'


Thousands of miles away, Evergreen halted when she felt something in her stomach. She turned around and looked back, looking worried for some reason. Something inside of her was screaming that something happened just now that she had to worry about.

"Elfman…" she muttered.

"Huh? Yo, Evergreen, what's up?" Bickslow asked, glancing back at her.

Evergreen frowned heavily. She didn't want to be left behind as the group trekked through the forest towards their destination point, but she couldn't shake this unnerving feeling inside her chest. "…it's nothing. Thought I heard something." She lied.

Bickslow hummed. He knew Evergreen well enough to know that look she had just now. He would have made use of it and play with it, but he chose to let it slide for now. They continued following the others as they were in the back of the pack, but the feeling never left Evergreen.

'You better not let me down, Elfman. You're a better man than that.'


Elfman couldn't move. He didn't have the strength. He just let his body relax into the debris that he was clung to as Rhyhorn was the only thing that separated him from the Sawk and muscular human that overwhelmed them.

"C'mon, don't tell me that was all you had in ya, big guy. I was actually starting to enjoy myself!" Bruce complained.

Even Martial seemed vaguely disappointed. "I suppose this is as much as you would expect from Pokémon trained under such masters. They do not have the drive as we Pokémon do to want to outperform themselves."

Bruce scoffed. "I guess so…"

Though his ears were ringing from the head trauma, Elfman could still make out everything being said. "Wha…what does that mean…?"

"You see…I was unsatisfied with my own trainer. He lacked the discipline to teach properly how one should conduct themselves in a fight." Martial spoke, remembering the stale times he had being in his Poke Ball. "The way I perceive it, a trainer has to make it their responsibility to make sure they bring out the best in all their Pokémon. Yet mine did not hold up to that value. He would go into battles against other trainers and Gym Leaders without properly preparing the necessary items and recognizing our conditions beforehand."

"Huh? The Castelia City is a Bug-type Gym?" A young boy in his teens spoke. He had spiky black hair that went all over the place, with hazel brown eyes that were big with enthusiasm. He wasn't physically strong given the thin physique he had, but he seemed young and full of energy. "Heh, this'll be easy! Bug-types are pretty weak Pokémon, so I bet even my Servine can roast them!"

Martial clenched his fists tightly, showing visible ire. "No consideration to the meaning of the word commitment."

"Okay then! We're going straight to the next Gym!" The boy cheerfully exclaimed as he darted ahead towards Route 4. "We're gonna win that Pokémon League for sure!"

"Even when he met a blockade, he did not show any resilience to taking his steps…"

The boy pounded the pillow on his lap with his fists. "It's not fair! Stupid Volt Switch! And why did that stupid Gym Leader have two Emolga, seriously?! Shouldn't that be, like, against the rules or whatever?! Gnnngh…" In his frustrations, he showed visible annoyance. "Alright then, next time we face her, she's gonna get it!"

Martial frowned. He could still remember the tears his trainer shed after losing to Elesa over and over with Pokémon that clearly were underexperienced and had poor type matchups. It wasn't until after his 6th try that he finally got the badge he wanted. "I had no idea what went on inside of his head, but it was the same. He didn't understand any of us. Even when we were poisoned or paralyzed, he just had us fight until we fainted…"

"We're back here, again?!" The trainer shouted in the Pokémon Center lobby. "Gah! Stupid wild Zebstrika! Why did it have to paralyze all my Pokémon every time its Spark hit!?"

"Young man, I think it would be good for you to buy some items to help keep your Pokémon safe." Nurse Joy advised.

The boy turned towards her, looking perplexed. "Huh? Oh, yeah. But I mean, I can always just avoid those battles anyway, I can do that, too. That way, I don't have to worry about that stupid paralysis!"

"And when the going got tough, he'd simply run away from battles, denying us the experience we need to get by. Failure did not make him stronger, it only made him that much weaker!" Martial closed his eyes as a vein was starting to show. "He'd go forward with the easiest routes possible, knowing the battles and inhabitants are only that much tougher than him. And when he finally got his 8th badge, he went straight for the Pokémon League"

An opponent's Chandelura lurched backwards before expelling a broiling Flamethrower at the boy's only Pokémon left: Sawk. He stood there while the long-range Fire-type move seared its way after him. All he did was cry out in distress as the flames engulfed his entire body in an uproarious explosion.

"Sawk, NO~!" The boy tearfully cried out.

The flames diminished as the Chandelure remained stationary. Meanwhile, Sawk stood there as his entire body was charred and sizzling. He let out a low grunt before falling onto his back, swirls in his eyes.

The referee present raised his left arm. "Sawk is unable to battle, Chandelure is the winner! Which means that the victory goes to Tyler of Nimbasa City!"

The large monitor on top of the arena showed Sawk's icon turning off, making three black silhouettes that looked like Serperior and Stoutland for the other two. The boy's icon was immediately shoved offscreen as Tyler's screen showed only his Swoobat and Chandelure, with an extra Poke Ball present. The audience cheered regardless.

"What an upset, folks! With an epic 3-0 sweep, Tyler moves on to the second round of the Unova League!" the spokesperson announced.

As the audience cheered for Tyler and Chandelure, the boy sank to his hands and knees, unable to hold back his tears. He bit his bottom lip as he felt so defeated. "I can't…why?" He whimpered. "Just why…?"

"He didn't understand the meaning of discipline. He had focus, but lacked the conduct." Martial finished, seemingly calmer than he was a second ago. "Those who charge straightforward without knowing their limitations, and surpassing them, they are only doomed to fail. My trainer was no man…because he quit after that incident. I was glad that he chose to release me afterwards."

Rhyhorn went for a Stomp on Martial, but the Sawk used his muscles to stop the forefoot in place. He kept it positioned so that Rhyhorn had no leverage than his hindlegs, leaving his underside exposed.

"Recklessness does not prove your 'manliness'. It is how you approach your resolve with an understanding of how to master it!" He balled a tight fist and pulled it back. With a hardy grunt, Martial unleashed a Brick Break straight into the exposed underside. The force was so intense that an airwave went clean through Rhyhorn's spiky, rough body, indicating a critical hit.

"GAH!" Rhyhorn gagged before Martial followed through. He overwhelmed Rhyhorn's frame with the punch and sent him soaring across the ground with his hindlegs leaving dense trails in the pavement. It continued until he smashed into a building wall.

As the dust from the attack settled, Martial clenched his belt and harrumphed as he saw Rhyhorn embedded into the brick housing for several seconds, before he fell over with a loud thud. He laid on his chin, dense swirls in his eyes to indicate he was unconscious.

"R…Rhyhorn…!" Elfman grunted. "You…bastard…"

"I admire your resolve to win, that much I can respect…but to me, humans must find help to its incapable so they can better understand their flaws. Just look at Bruce." He shot a glance at the muscular, bloodthirsty fighter. "Under my guidance, I taught him how to hone his skills and rid of those weaknesses."

"Heh, not complaining about the circumstances, but the only reason I listen to him is because he lets me fight whoever I want. But thanks to him, I can punch my way straight through a mountain, and still have enough power to kick your ass!"

Martial stepped forward, frowning heavily. "Your abilities measure you as a fighter. If that is your extent, then you are no different from him."

Elfman wanted to muster up a counter, he really wanted to. But the combination of what he just heard, followed by his current condition, made that impossible. He wanted to get back at that man for the brutal punches he took, but after a minute of realizing he had no weak points in his battling style, he felt himself deflate to depression.

'Is this…really the best that I can do?' He thought back to when he failed to control his Beast Soul for the first time, seemingly killing Lisanna. More thoughts followed, such as his battle against Sol, and Rusty Rose, and Bacchus. 'I thought I was getting stronger, but all those guys…they got under my skin so easily…why?' He then remembered his biggest blunder of all…being controlled by Seilah to destroy Fairy Tail's guild hall. 'Is simply strength and will…really all that I'm good at?'

He couldn't think of an excuse to think otherwise. He felt his body getting heavier as his will to keep conscious was deteriorating…

"HEY! WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING?!"

Elfman's eyes snapped open. Though hard to move, he slowly craned his aching neck towards the resonator of the strained shout. Barely in shape himself, Machoke angrily balled his fists as he laid on his back.

"Ma…choke?" Elfman murmured.

Martial huffed, seeing the fellow Fighting-type still conscious.

"Are you seriously listening to these guys?! If you are, you better knock some sense into yourself before I do it!" His pupils pulsated with dense strain. "C'MON! I REFUSE TO LOSE LIKE THIS! YOU SHOULD, TOO! A REAL MAN DOESN'T BACK DOWN FROM A CHALLENGE, DOES HE?! YOU'RE MY TRAINER, RIGHT?! I'M NOT TAKING ANY WIMPS THAT JUST SIT ON THEIR ASSES AND QUIT! SHOW ME YOU'RE A MAN!"

Elfman's eyes widened, his pupils shrinking to where they were barely visible. He saw the sheer desire in Machoke's eyes that pierced right into his heart.

'Machoke…' Though he could barely move, Elfman's thoughts went to something that mused him. 'You haven't changed at all, have you…'


It was only the other day that the international announcement of The Crossing was made public. Earthland was still fresh on the adaptations that were being made with the Pokémon being integrated into their lives now. Though still early in its stages, the pandemonium was still in full swing.

But even so, despite how much busier everyone had gotten, Elfman couldn't forget his basis. He had to remind himself that he had to keep getting stronger. A real man doesn't just break his routine because he's too busy after all.

"105…106…107…" Elfman muttered the repetition number of squats he was doing while holding up a massive boulder by its underside. Every time he did, sweat and saliva dripped from his face as he was honing himself.

'I can't fall behind. I have to be better…better than I was before!' He told himself that, and he felt his muscles pulsed with adrenaline. He pushed himself to keep going until he had done enough reps with the enormous boulder.

"148…149…150!" With a final push, Elfman shoved the rock off him and watched it tumble onto its side. The ground shuddered briefly as the boulder crashed brutally.

He stood upright, his brawn arms throbbing from the tenth repetition he had done this morning. He panted breathlessly as he took a minute to catch the much-needed breathing room he needed. His bare upper body was covered in sweat that made him look like he just came out of the ocean.

"Yeah, that's more like it…" he told himself.

"Hmph! Not bad!"

Elfman briefly gasped. "Who's there?!" He immediately pivoted and looked at his rocky surroundings. Everything around him was either rock or dirt. Maybe he was just hallucinating? Dehydrated perhaps?

"Up here, you big meat sack."

Elfman heard the voice more clearly, making it out higher up. He turned towards the cliff that overlooked the area and noticed something underneath the sun's rays. He couldn't make it out clearly, but he could have sworn that it was no bigger than a child. Even when he covered his eyes to block the sun's hue, he still only saw a child's silhouette.

"Who're you supposed to be?" He threateningly asked.

The figment sneered. He stomped on the cliffside and suddenly sprung off. He flew over Elfman's head and flipped onto a knee. He stood upright and continued facing away, arms crossed. "Who am I? What's it look like to you?"

Elfman furrowed his brow. "Hard to tell with you facing away like that. How's about you drop the cocky attitude and face me like a man."

Hearing this, the creature's muscles twitched. "A man, eh?" He chuckled. "Well now, big guy's got nerves…I like that!"

The creature turned to face Elfman, revealing himself to be some light blue, bipedal humanoid figment. Atop his head were three brown ridges, large red eyes full of spunk, and a flat face. He also had a short, stubby tail and no toes, yet had five fingers. The smirk he had proved how confident he was.

Elfman furrowed his brow, uncertain to what this creature was. "Who're you supposed to be?"

"Eh, what's the matter? Never seen a Machop before?" The creature, now revealed to be Machop, smirked.

"A Machop?" Elfman blinked. Truth be told, this was his first time seeing something like this. If he were honest, he would have mistaken it for some really small, bare Vulcan. 'Is that one of those Pokémon that started appearing from Nic and Vanessa's world?'

The Machop shrugged, not bothering to answer the question. "Well, it's whatever. Guess it doesn't matter to me. But I'll tell you what does matter, though…" He held up a balled fist, the veins throbbing. "You seem like a tough opponent, so how's about it? C'mon tough guy!"

Elfman blinked, visibly confused. "What are you on about…?"

"Do you have stones in your ears or something? I'm asking you to fight me!" Machop yelled. "You look like a strong guy. I've been doing nothing but toss Geodude and Graveler all day! I was starting to get bored of that routine…but then I saw you, and it just clicked. With those muscles, you've gotta be strong! I've been looking for a good opponent for a while, so you'll do just fine!"

Elfman gasped. He was shocked when he saw Machop suddenly raced up to him with a glowing hand and brought it up in a chop. He jumped into the air and came down onto Elfman.

'He didn't even ask if I wanted to fight him or not!'

"Karate Chop!"

Machop brought the chop down onto Elfman's forearm. The impact was felt by the brawny Fairy Tail mage, but he withstood it and swatted Machop away. The Pokémon flipped onto his hands before getting to his feet. "Heh, not bad."

Elfman narrowed his eyes as he uncovered himself. The attack didn't hurt him as much as he thought, probably because he had much better muscle mass than the wild attacker. Either way he looked at it, he didn't seem pleased.

"…alright pal, but don't say you didn't ask for it." He threatened.

Machop's cocky smirk returned. "I never did."

He balled his gloved fists tightly, veins popping out. Elfman glared down the hasty fighter and took a stance. "You wanna go picking fights that bad, guess it's up to a real man to make you see reason."

Machop spread his arms, scoffing. "C'mon, hit me with your best shot! I wanna see what a 'real man' can do!'

Elfman didn't hesitate. With a ferocious jab forward, he let out a wild cry and landed a blow in Machop's abdomen. The impact was so intense that Machop's eyes shrank as he slid several meters back. He let out a pained grunt as he eventually lost traction and flipped constantly until he fell onto his stomach.

"You wanted to see the strength of a man, well there!"

Machop grunted, his body flaring with pain. However, as much as it ached, he clutched his stomach and gradually stood upright again. "Heh…t-that's pretty good…nice shot." He smirked. "You pack a serious punch…but so can I!" He suddenly rushed back after Elfman, an energetic sneer on his face.

"Graaaah!" Elfman balled his fists as he braced for Machop's battle-eager tenacity.

Their sparring went on longer than expected. The sun had started setting in the distance, setting the sky ablaze with an array of yellow, orange, and red. The caws of Murkrow were heard as they mixed with crows in the mountain's reaches.

Elfman found himself panting as hard as he did with his workout earlier, only there were minor scrapes on his body. However, Machop was lying on his back, looking worse for wear as he had a lot more dirt that he slammed in constantly all day. The Fighting-type's breathing was so much that it was clear he was exhausted.

"There, you satisfied?" Elfman asked, managing to catch his breath.

"Heh…heh…gotta say pal…I'm so used to throwing around Geodude so much…I almost forgot how it feels to being thrown myself." Machop spatted, his breathing calming down. "Gimme a minute…and I'll kick that ass of yours yet."

Elfman frowned. To say he was impressed as well as slightly worried would be putting it loudly. 'Even after all that, he doesn't know when to quit…kinda manly in its own way, but look at him.'

Though he didn't doubt Machop would be up and about soon, he openly voiced his concerns. "Say, what made you want to fight to begin with?"

"I'm a Fighting-type, what did you expect? It's what I live for." He answered matter-of-factly.

"So you just like to fight?"

"Well, I gotta work out these muscles somehow. They don't get sore, you know. But…they could be better." He frowned. "I just wanna be stronger, that's all."

Elfman could relate. He knew the drive to be better than himself. However, unlike Machop, he had a reason for doing so. He thought about his sisters and his guild, how he wanted to protect them. His past failures in being able to protect them or getting them almost killed was a shame that he would never let down. It was that pain of losing them that drove him to do better so they wouldn't have to suffer such a fate.

Even now, just thinking about it made him want to punch something. The throbbing in his tightened knuckles was made visible for even Machop to see.

"I know how it feels to want to get stronger, believe me pal. And there's nothing wrong with wanting to prove it to yourself." Elfman paused, straightening himself. "But, if the reason is for someone else, or someone close, that makes you that much stronger."

Machop scoffed, craning his head away. "Really? Sounds like a waste of brainpower to me…"

Elfman turned away, a serious look in his eyes. "Having that much strength is a lot of responsibility. Climbing to the top isn't easy, but doing it by yourself is a lot harder." He started walking away. "Get some rest, now. If you're a man, you'd know when to quit."

Machop eventually sat upright, watching Elfman slowly take his leave. As he glared at his back, his words clung to him like glue. This was the first time he heard something so profound. Normally he'd dismiss words as easily as he did with the rocks he'd hurdle into the horizon, but this felt so heavy that it irritated him. And yet, he wasn't frustrated by it. The more steps Elfman took, the more his heart paced, urging him to stand upright.

Hearing his strained footing, Elfman stopped and looked back. 'Does he seriously want more?'

"Alright then, I've decided…" Machop flipped to his feet, pointing a finger at Elfman. "I'm coming with you!"

Elfman blinked, surprised by the sudden decision. "You serious?"

"Of course! I wanna be stronger. And the best way to do that is to keep fighting the best. Besides, you put me through my paces, I wouldn't mind tagging along with a real man such as yourself!" He sneered. "Just don't get too soft on me, alright?"

Elfman grinned. "Believe me…a real man never goes back on his word." He held up an arm and clenched his fist. "Can't promise anything, just know it'll be a bumpy ride."

Machop returned the grin, mimicking Elfman's stance. "That's exactly how I like it."

With a small sneer, Elfman and Machop closed in on each other, their firm handshake echoing as the setting sun highlighted their joint journey.


With Elfman seemingly out of it, and Machoke barely hanging on, Martial closed his eyes as he turned away from them in disappointment.

"I suppose this is as far as your discipline takes you…our business here is complete. The law enforcement should be arriving momentarily. Let us be on our way, Bruce."

"Yeah, yeah…" Bruce harrumphed as he turned around, but something didn't feel right. He spared a glance over his shoulder when he saw something spur after them. "Hey, yo! Heads up!"

Martial's eyes widened at the warning and felt something head his way. In a swift pivot, he caught onto a red-orange aura enveloping a brawn fist heading his way. He crossed his arms just as the attack caught up to him and blocked it, but even then, the impact was felt harshly through his entire upper body. He grunted as he slid several more feet back. When he halted, his forearms had a dense bruise on it.

Looking ahead, the Sawk was taken back when he saw the recipient of the fist was panting profusely. It was Machoke, as his Revenge had met its mark. Machoke adjusted his slouching footing and lifted his head to give a piercing stare straight into Martial's eyes.

"Hmph, are you still willing to continue?" Martial asked.

Machoke huffed, but he was able enough to speak. "Ha! Figured that blow would have answered that question for you. You know, for someone quick in the hands, you're pretty slow in the brains. You're saying all this stuff about 'discipline' and 'humans having no conduct', yet you're more like a preacher than a fighter. Real fighters don't prove their points with words, you know." He clutched his throbbing fists. "Say what you want, but the only thing that matters to me and that human that's my trainer…is kicking that ass!"

Martial squinted. He had enough with all the half-wittedness. "So be it…Bruce, finish this, now!"

Bruce rammed his knuckles together. "I like the way this guy thinks! I'd totally go toe-to-toe with you, buff lizard guy!"

Machoke roared out towards Bruce as he charged for the weakened Fightin-type. Time slowed down to a drastic rate that Elfman processed. Though his body was still not moving, he could feel the epiphanies pile up.

"Of course! I wanna be stronger. And the best way to do that is to keep fighting the best. Besides, you put me through my paces, I wouldn't mind tagging along with a real man such as yourself!"

'A real man…' Even when he was beaten, he recalled how Machop always got up to his feet.

"Recklessness does not prove your 'manliness'. It is how you approach your resolve with an understanding of how to master it!"

Martial's words resonated with him. He felt the strength forced into his knuckles as he balled them tight. 'A real man knows when to quit…but also…a real man…never gives up on others! I'll resolve myself…MACHOKE!'

At that instant, Elfman's body exploded into a forceful array of light. The air and ground shuddered like an earthquake that stopped Machoke and Bruce just before they were about to collide. All three combatants stopped in their tracks and turned towards Elfman's glowing frame.

"What now?!" Bruce exclaimed.

Martial narrowed his eyes.

'My abilities…my limitations! I have to push pass them all at once! I won't…EVER LAY DOWN LIKE THAT AGAIN!' Elfman's eyes opened wide, showing a brighter array of light inside them. "GRAAAAAHHHHH!"

The light coming from him magnified in intensity. Everyone covered up as the shockwaves blew debris past them all. Even Rhyhorn, who was still unable to battle, barely opened his eyes and awed at the sight before him.

Martial saw a figure shifting inside, making his eyes widen. "Impossible…"

The light faded, revealing a new figure that stood in place of Elfman. It stood a few feet taller than his normal height, with various traits that composed of beastly body parts mixed into one. His face was still similar to his Beast Soul, with the exception of dense, sharper cheekbones sticking out. The only other features belonging to the Beast Soul on him were the horns that leaned back, along with his bare feet. His head crest, entire back of his neck, and slicked hairstyle going over his back were those of his Lizardman form. His right arm had the Black Bull as the bicep, and the forearm had the Iron Bull, with additional sharp claws embedded into the ends of the fingers. The left arm had his Ape form's bicep, with the Scale Bull on the forearm; both shoulders had a yellow horn of the Beast Soul, as well as bridled in dense Lizardman scales. His abs and abdomen had the armor of the Belcusas, which was also evident in the small silver spikes in the Lizardman crest and on his knees. His lower-half consisted of his Beast Soul's torn pants over his Weretiger legs, with the Sand Beast's cloak covering said pants. The bare feet also had Weretiger claws. His face also had traits of the Take-Over such as the whiskers and the nose. And to finish the entire ensemble, he had a tail that swerved around, which was his Jet-Black Sword.

"Beast Soul Fusion: Chimera!"

"The hell did he just do now?!" Bruce gasped.

Elfman's razor-sharp, huge fangs clenched, but a hot, steamy breath exited between the crevices. His body felt so dense, yet the muscle fibers were pulsing to the extreme, packing full of energy. He glared with a roguish grin as he thought back to what Martial said before.

"Strength you have, practicality and form you do not. In a contest of strength, using one's abilities to their fullest determines one's potential."

"Hey, I gotta thank you for what you said earlier." As he spoke in a deep, monstrous tone, Martial narrowed his eyes in wonder. "Using one's abilities o their fullest, you said that, right? Well, how about this?"

'He fused his transformations into a single combined form?' Martial balled his fists, trying his best not to feel threatened. 'But such a transformation, that has to be taxing on his power. I doubt he can maintain it for very long, however/. It's a miracle enough that he could pull it off.'

Machoke sneered at Elfman's comeback. "That's more like it."

Elfman clenched his fists tightly. 'Never thought I'd pull this off…it feels like I'm barely keeping myself together. Can't say I have long to hold this, but…' He glared back at Bruce. 'With this, we can take them!'

"Bruce, finish him quickly! Furious Jab!" Martial ordered.

Bruce closed the gap on his monstrous foe and pulled back another fist with a compressed magic seal. He pivoted and put all his weight into the blow that struck Elfman with enough force that an eruption of dust clouded everything in the vicinity.

As the shockwaves dispersed, Bruce kept his fist out…but found it hard to budge. "…huh?!"

The dust cleared, revealing Bruce's fist caught in the clutched of Elfman's Iron Bull hand. Though the grip was shaky, it only had enough force to push Elfman back a few feet while still standing.

"You're kidding!" Bruce exasperated.

"He stopped the blow with a single hand?!" Martial exclaimed.

Elfman's grip was firm, trapping Bruce's left fist like a vise. "Not so tough now with just one arm, huh pal?" he taunted.

Bruce gnashed his teeth. "THAT'S WHAT YOU THINK, BUDDY!" He pulled back his right fist, channeling kinetic energy into another intense blow. "Let's see you stop THIS! GRAAAAH!" He unleashed another stellar uppercut directly into Elfman's black armored chest, striking it so hard that the ground depressed beneath them and air expelled.

Elfman grunted. However, despite feeling the blow, he was taking it far better than he was before. He glared at Bruce with determination that pierced his soul.

'Did his endurance also go up somehow?!'

He didn't have time to spare any second thoughts. The Mach Arms mage reeled his right arm back to deliver another high-speed uppercut with the same amount of force, only with the same results as last time. He pulled back again, and again, and again. He unleashed a volley of blows that targeted Elfman to a point that shockwaves were like air bullets mowing down everything around them. Even the ground's plating was cracking and chipping into the wake.

All while Elfman took it all. The combined muscle fibers and endurance that his Take-Overs had were merged into one. He dug his toes in and steeled himself through it all. He subconsciously recalled how this strategy worked against Bacchus, and at the same time, it left him with an epiphany.

'No…this time's different. Because now…' Elfman balled his left fist, the scaly, muscular fingers curving to flex the dense spikes. 'I can finally return the favor!'

Bruce let out a massive cry as he pulled back for another punch, as Elfman reeled his fist back. Both let out shouts from the top of their lungs as their brawny knuckles met centerfield. A shockwave expelled, rippling through the plating beneath and flattened the area. The two were in a brief struggle for a few second, until the shock of the blow was making Bruce's arm shake.

"GRRAAAAH!" Elfman followed through with the punch, unleashing enough force to send Bruce sliding several feet backwards to a halt.

The mage stopped in his tracks, looking down at his fist. To his surprise, it felt numb. "He actually overpowered my punch?" he looked back at Elfman. "But how much better did this guy get!?"

Elfman crouched and shot across the ground. His Weretiger legs bent and thrust all his weight after Bruce, leaving a shockwave and shattered ground in his wake.

"Bruce, intercept with Bullet Fist! Martial commanded.

Bruce steeled himself as magic seals appeared on his fists. He cried out as he rolled his shoulders to unleash another Mach-speed barrage of fists. Elfman brought up his mismatched forearms once more and blocked the blows. They bombarded his scaly and armored forearms, but they held out as the surroundings were shaking apart again by air pressure from shockwave each blow dealt.

"Heh, he was blown away so easily earlier…!" Bruce noticed the change as he was still punching with all his might.

"Hey, what's wrong? Your punches getting softer or what?!" Elfman taunted.

"IN YOUR DREAMS!" Bruce accepted the manly challenge, increasing the force and speed of his punches to where his arms were pure blurs.

Watching the exchange being dealt, Martial balled his fists with his composed face barely hiding his astoundment. 'This is unseen. To think that my Bruce would be held back by another power type…' His thoughts were abruptly cut off by a brawn fist heading his way. Out of instinct, he brought up an arm covered by Brick Break to intercept Machoke's Strength. Their exchanged made an airwave of its own that quickly broke.

"Don't count me out just yet! If my trainer can still fight, then why falter now?" Machoke spoke with a sneering grin of his own.

Martial shot a spiteful glare. The two pulled away from each other and spread their legs.

"I have never doubted my own abilities. I shall not waiver to your impulses like my own trainer had!" With a strong declaration, Martial clutched both ends of his belt and tightened it. It was so tight that his muscles became more defined with his glare sharpening with dense focus.

"Sucks for you, really. Sorry for your shitty trainer." Machoke frowned. "But we have our own way of winning, and we'll show you just that!" He proceeded to taking off his belt. As soon as it unclipped and landed on the ground, his eyes sharpened as the veins all over his body pulsated. He visibly shook as he careened his head with a violent cry. "GRAAAAAAAAH!"

Meanwhile, Bruce remained relentless in his ballistic punching. Even with his increased muscle and body density cushioning the blows, Elfman gradually slid backwards a few inches every few seconds. It got to where he had to use his tiger nails to dig into the pavement and anchor himself. Even then, all he did was defend.

"Haha! What's the matter?! Finally out of steam so soon?!" Bruce taunted. He reeled for another punch, when he felt a sharp pain in his knuckles, making him wince. "Gngh…! What the…?"

When he stopped to see why he was in pain, his eyes gradually widened at what he saw. To his shock, his hands were covered in blood. There were sharp cuts that split open skin, and bruises all over the skin that went straight through his gloves. Just feeling them alone made it hard to move even a single digit.

"You're kidding…!"

Elfman finally lowered his arms, showing his narrowed glare. "Looks like you're the one out of steam!" He pulled back his Iron Bull fist covered in spikes, startling Bruce. "Now it's my turn to show you how a man throws a punch!"

Gawking, Bruce's only counter was to cover with his forearms. Elfman threw his own punch with pure force. The impact created a brutal shockwave that made chipped pavement defy gravity beneath their feet. Seconds later, the blow caught up in momentum and sent Bruce flying off his feet into a nearby wall, smashing into it.

"GAH!" Bruce felt the intense recoil, gagging blood as he lost his breath for a second.

It took him a few second to catch wind, but he was back on his feet, his breathing dense. He saw Elfman stare him down with a serious look…a look that made him as excited as it did mad. His teeth gnashed together as he tightened his bloodied fists.

"You think you've won…well I'm not through yet!" Bruce cried out and charged again, pulling back for a Furious Jab. Elfman used his scaly left arm and took the blow. Though air repulsed around them, it wasn't as strong as before. Bruce felt his arm shaking from the pain in his knuckles. "Gnngh…!"

Meanwhile, Martial and Machoke parried the other's Brick Break, dealing blows that were intercepted with the other's technique of form and power. Machoke kept up well, despite Martial's blow having more momentum. He persevered as his eyes never left the Sawk.

The two eventually pulled away from each other, allowing Martial to find time and room to pull his leg around for a Low Sweep from the right. However, at the last second, Machoke grabbed the ankle with one arm with another dense definition of muscles, via Strength. Martial's eyes widened in shock as Machoke smirked. With violent cry, the Superpower Pokémon pivoted and threw Martial into a nearby wall, creating a depression upon impact.

Machoke steadied his footing as he watched the dust clear. He watched Martial fall to the ground with a loud thud. It didn't take long for him to slowly stand upright again, his glare fixed on him as he tried catching his breath. 'Using that Close Combat before lowered my defenses. I thought I was faster than him. Don't tell me he's anticipating all my blows and countering them…'

"You think I'm a dull meathead like your trainer was?" Machoke taunted. "I picked up your fighting style by now. I can read you like a book. How's that for focus and discipline?"

Martial grunted. His opponent figured him out, just like that? That was impossible! He was just a brute who only cared about attacking head-on. There was no way a Pokémon and human of that kind of combination could be overwhelming the brute that he honed and taught properly. He spent so much time to perfect his own untrained meathead, only to have it all come crashing down right before his eyes.

In retaliation, Martial tightened his fists and rolled forwards. He slid across the ground and aimed for Machoke's ankle, via Low Sweep. When he was so close, Machoke seized the ankle again, stopping Martial before the latter was flipped into a lock in his arms. Machoke kicked off the ground and sprung high into the air. He began flipping and spiraling, gathering momentum to a point that he looked like a revolving world.

"Seismic Toss!"

With a stern throw, he slammed Martial into the pavement below. Time slowed down for a second as the Sawk's face showed absolute pain throughout his entire body.

Bruce panted, his knuckles dripping with his own blood. He looked severely worn out, if not exasperated. No matter what he did, Elfman just wouldn't cave in. "How the heck are you still standing?!" he shouted.

"You wanna know?" Elfman reached for something tucked away that he placed into his Z-Ring. A click revealing the Fightium-Z activating and gradually eating the light around them. He crossed his arms, revealing an insignia flaring for the Fighting-type. "We'll show you…what real potential is! Machoke!"

"Yeah, now we're talking!" Machoke took a similar stance with Elfman. The two had their palms out as the Z-Power arched over the trainer onto Machoke. The two balled their fists together and gathered momentum for their attack.

Martial showed genuine concern at this bizarre yet strong force that was piling up. 'This power…' He hurriedly turned towards Bruce. "Bruce, finish him now! Bullet Fist!"

Bruce clenched his fists tight and charged with everything he had after Elfman, completely ignoring Machoke. He fists coated in magic seals as he closed the gap with a wild shout.

Elfman and Machoke's eyes opened together as they began punching together.

"All-Out Pummeling!"

The two began punching the air at a ferocious rate. The Z-Power in Machoke amplified the punches, becoming dense orange, fist-shaped energy in a relentless barrage at Martial. The flurry of blows barreled with such force that the Sawk had to tighten his belt yet again.

"Close Combat!"

With a counter of his own, Martial let out a wild cry as he unleashed a barrage of kicks, punches, and thrusts of his own to intercept the wall of punches meeting him. Every blow dealt was nothing short of a critical hit that dispelled the aura. But the barrage kept coming, endlessly keeping him in place and unable to bridge that gap.

Bruce unleashed his gatling fury in numerous fists of his own against Elfman's punches. The spiked knuckles Elfman had repulsed the weakened blows, spattering blood belonging to Bruce. His hardened fists lost their momentum and unable to find the strength to overpower the beastly man.

Meanwhile, Martial let loose as wild cry with a furious punch. The final fist to the Z-Move had finally struck and dispersed. However, Martial's body was covered in dense bruises and scrapes that were comparable to his human's. It didn't help that he had another blue aura envelop him, decreasing his defenses.

Just as the final fist dispersed, time slowed down, revealing Machoke just mere inches away breaking past Martial's outstretched fist. His fist was glowing bright white that showed a dense glow in his tenacious eyes; a trait that Elfman shared as his fist gatling knuckles were pulled back.

With neither human nor Pokémon able to cover in time…their pupils shrank as the fists drove straight into their chests.

"MANLY BEAST FIST!"

"BRICK BREAK!"

Their strong fists met their opponents' exposed abdomens. The attacks created dense shockwaves that shot air pressure in all directions. "HRAAAAAAAH~!" They followed through in their punches together, sending both combatants beaming through the air and smashing inti the same wall. The entire building's structure shattered to pieces and completely crumbled under the lack of support. The entire avenue roared with the structure's demise as many Pokémon who were keeping their distance just gawked in a mixture of awe and fear.

Elfman panted heavily, feeling the last bit of his magic being used for that brutal blow. "That…did it…" Unable to hold out any longer, the beastly man glowed brightly, reverting Elfman to his original form.

Just as he was about to fall forward, he felt himself stopping when something caught him. "Huh…?" He looked over, recognizing the arm underneath his shoulder and pushing against his chest. "Machoke…?"

Machoke paused, catching his breath too. "…heh, not bad. Not bad at all." He smirked.

The two turned their focus onto the crumbled ruins of the building. Surrounded by the debris, Bruce was laying atop a pile of crumbled bricks, unmoving. Martial, on the other hand, was barely standing. He was shaking as he was severely bruised and had one eye open. He gnashed his teeth as he eyed Machoke and Elfman.

"Ergh…gngh…" He panted, barely getting enough strength to speak. "You…you both…such commitment…" He felt his strength fading, muttering only a single word. "…impressive…"

With that, he fell to his knees before falling onto his stomach with a thud. He laid with his head turned enough for Elfman and Machoke to see the swirls in his eyes, signaling he had fainted.

"You think you're a man, well pal…let me break it to you…" Machoke paused, baring his teeth. "Because unlike you, my human…Elfman…is a real man."

Elfman looked at him, surprised. "Machoke…?"

Machoke craned his neck away, scoffing. Though, judging by the small smile he had, he seemed to have acknowledged him. "…hey, tell me you've brought some Super Potions and Revives, right?"

Elfman blinked. "Yeah…why?"

"Cuz there's a lot more fighting to go around." He turned towards the surroundings, mainly focusing on the numerous Pokémon who were looking fearful at Martial's defeat. "Oh, and heal rockbrain over there with a Revive. He needs it."

"Machoke…"

"You showed me that a real man fights for his pals or whatever, right?" He looked back at Elfman, smirking. "You humans don't heal like we Pokémon do…but I still hope you've got some swing in you left, partner."

Elfman blinked, briefly recalling their initial meeting. He looked readily at him with a smirk of his own. "Count on it."

Watching from within his sanctum, the broadcast didn't go unnoticed by Quinlan. He saw the entire thing through a projection on a lacrima, and through it all, he had a composed face. 'Well now…today is certainly full of surprises.'


Many of avenues and intersections across the shattering utopia, Lucy, Cana, Gray, and Juvia were surrounded by numerous unconscious bodies belonging to either mages or Pokémon. Every single one looked worse for wear, and it didn't help that despite the numerous spells and attacks used, none of the current party members looked anywhere near as exhausted as they should be.

"H-how…how are they this freaking strong?" A disoriented Shroomish grunted, before collapsing to his side.

Gray inspected the ground, checking to see if anymore were still conscious. "Looks like we swept this area clear."

"Sure did!" Juvia brightly grinned.

"Well, guess that wasn't so bad. Really knocked a lot of them for a loop." Cana mused, smirking.

Inside the Card Dimension's confines, Blade and Sune were quiet as they were left only to observe the hundreds that were manhandled in a timely manner. Even Blade, who had no means of involvement nor opinion, showed genuine surprise.

'They're seriously this strong? This could be a serious problem.' He thought. 'Damnit! Why's everybody so useless around here!?'

'I-It can't be…all those citizens didn't stand a chance…I doubt even the Chief would get through.' Sune dreaded, feeling her desperations deflate.

"We can't waste anymore time around here. Let's hurry up and get to that palace." Gray urged.

Lucy nodded. "Right, and if I had to wager, I'd say Nic's already well on his way there."

"Well I hope he's developed enough manners to leave some for the rest of us." Cana eagerly grinned, turning towards Liepard and Prinplup. "Right, guys?"

"You bet! I feel like I can take on an army!" Prinplup declared, raising a flipper high.

Liepard sneered, eyerolling. "Well, I'm limber after running around like that…guess it can't be helped."

Lucy lowered her head, frowning at something that was on her mind. "I sure hope Wendy's doing alright out there."

BEEPBEEP Staryu blinked as it turned towards Lucy.

"Yeah, I'm sure everything will be okay, Lucy." Klefki assured, swaying the many celestial keys side to side. "We can do this, just have to hang in there!"

That seemed to have lifted Lucy's spirits enough to where she managed a small smile. "Yeah, you're right. C'mon! We better hurry and wrap this up before-!"

Right as she was about to insist on their directory forward, everyone noticed a bright light over their heads. When they looked up, they saw gray stones hanging over all their heads that came out of nowhere.

"Uh, you guys…" Lucy quipped. "Is it me, or are there…"

"Get out of the way! NOW!" Gray shouted.

Everyone immediately reacted for their lives. The large rocks came down and slammed into the ground. Everyone panicked as they dodged and jumped out of the wake of the avalanche of stones pummeling their tracks. Lucy and Cana fled down one street, while Juvia was no different as she fled with all her Pokémon in tow.

The only ones who stayed behind were Gray and his Pokémon. The Ice-Make Mage got enough distance between him and the rocks to look back without worrying about anymore falling atop his head. He saw how the street was blocked off completely by a wall of rocks.

"P-Phew…t-that was way too close…" Snover breathed, holding himself up with his arms. "I thought my life flashed before my eyes…again."

"Déjà vu." Bergmite replied bluntly.

Gray observed the rocks with a furrowed brow. Immediately, he had a feeling of whom it came from. 'Don't tell me…'

Snorunt turned around, seeing something that caught his eyes. "Uh-oh, look alive!"

Gray and the others pivoted and looked behind them. Standing several meters away was a similar figure with bright red eyes that glared hate-filled daggers. It was no contest to whom those set of eyes belonged to. Oddly enough, it didn't intimidate Gray at all. It was the opposite.

"I figured we'd run into you sooner or later around here." Gray smirked. "Been meaning to get back after that last drop you gave me."

Walking to a stop, Akando's sneer was heard clearly. "You lot from the boonies…you've really made a mess of things now."

"Not as big as the one right in front of me." Gray retorted.

The two were caught in a deadlock stare, knowing well there were no takebacks at this point. This time, Gray was well prepared to get even with the Midnight Lycanroc. One way or another, one of them won't be walking away freely this time.


Juvia took a moment to catch her breath from that sudden scare. Her hand was on her chest as she took slow breaths to ease her heart rate until it was settled enough to not cause a heart attack.

"Boss Ma'am, look!" Wartortle shouted.

Juvia turned around, her eyes widening at what Wartortle was pointing at. The direction she came from was completely blocked off by a large-scale array of crumbled rocks. The wall wasn't that large, but enough rocks were scattered that she would have no means of physically going back the way she came.

"What just happened? Where did all those rocks come from just now?" She wondered aloud. She gasped when something else came to mind. "Gray? Gray darling? Are you here!? Gray!?"

However, despite her pleas, she didn't get a response. It only intensified her worries.

'This is bad. We're separated again. I hope he's alright…' She bit her bottom lip. She remembered the last time they were separated, and how it didn't go well. 'We have to find him immediately, and make sure he's alright!'

Azumarill's ears twitched, making her turn towards a different direction. "Guys, it looks like somebody wants to play with us."

Vaporeon turned, noticing something that made her eyes widen and get into a striking stance. "Oh great…"

Juvia looked at all her Pokémon getting on guard and looked up to what they were so defensive about. She gasped and immediately took a guarding stance of her own. Before her, an eerie light permeated in front of a large lake at the bottom of a stairwell. The alcove structure led to a circumference around the clear water that looked undisturbed.

Slowly, the light shimmering deep under the water became brighter and larger, until it surfaced. Surfacing was none other than Lumina, who glared at Juvia.

"The Lanturn…" Juvia realized. When she looked to her left for an emergency exit, it was blocked off by Reela, and when she turned right Marcella was already in position.

With nowhere to go, Juvia knew what this meant. She and her Pokémon braced themselves against Lumina.


Things were no different from Lucy and Cana's end. As they were catching their breath in the narrow avenue, their route back down the main street was completely covered by rocks.

"What the hell was that all about?!" Lucy exasperated.

"Beats me…" Cana narrowed her eyes. "But something tells me we're about to find out."

"Oh, there you darlings are." A flamboyant, feminine voice chimed behind them.

Lucy and Cana felt the hairs on the back of their necks stand on end as they whipped around to see who was there. They saw a feminine figure walking up to them, with a notable sway in her hips, as well as a massive pair of lips that were a size too big to be considered normal.

The two women felt their spines shiver at the sight of the figment sauntering to a halt. They got their guards up as Suria continued to stare at them modestly, if not endearingly.

"You again…" Cana snarled.

"You dears look so tense. Don't worry…" Suria smirked, winking lusciously at them. "You'll be in great care now."


Along a narrow alley, Amaryllis was fleeing swiftly, with Natsu's scarf around her neck. She was tailed after by the Dragon Slayer as he had a ferocious glare fixed on the tails of the Apostle that took his trademark scarf.

"Get back here…YOU DAMN MONKEY!" Natsu roared through the alley, beaming with no intention on letting her get away from him this time.

At the same time, they all found themselves locked in their own troubles. And one way or another, they had to end those troubles.


Hope that you all enjoyed this chapter! I know there wasn't too much widespread combat this time around, this one was more drawn towards Wendy and Elfman, though more focused on the latter. I figured that it was about time to give Elfman some attention and growth as a character. And to do that, I figured this was the most ideal route to take it.

For those who may have caught on, I got inspired by Rappa from My Hero Academia when I was thinking of Bruce's magic and fighting habits.

By the way, I posted his new Best Soul Fusion: Chimera on my Deviantart page. I've been drawing a little more these days, so I've been drawing some scenes and concepts from my stories so people can get visuals of what some characters look like.

I'm gonna try my best to keep the word count under 30K for the sake of reader's attention span. If I can make it more compacted, I'll try to do so.

Hope you all were thrilled with these fights so far! Please feel free to leave a review and share your thoughts, they're much appreciated! Thank you for the support!