Total Pokemon : Island of Power

by Primal Latios

Mesprit and Tapu Koko have received the blessing from Arceus to organize their own Total Pokemon Island show! 25 Contestant will duke it out in order to claim a most fabulous prize. Who will stand on top of them all? Stay tuned to find out! (Reupload because of a messed up chapter 1 - Sorry about that...)

15. Chapter 15: Jotho Silver Showdown

Primal Latios:

Good day to you all, I hope that you are doing well. On our part we're also doing quite good for ourselves. With the game settling down and while we await the next DLC, I can tell with certitude that being able to write this is a welcomed distraction. I hope that you are also enjoying the read and the adventure. Well, let's not keep y'all waiting any longer. Without further ado...

Chapter 15: Jotho's Silver showdown

While there was no moonlight piercing through the canopy of Cerulean Cave, but the many crystals and glitters present in the cave contributed to give the area an etheral, even fairy tail like glow and atmosphere. It was also in this atmosphere that Sneasel was paralyzed, looking at an even more bewitching than usual Alolan Ninetales. Her slighly rosy fur was shining among the glitter, reflecting an Aurora that seemed to coat the ice/fairy type kitsune completely. Her slender form emitting cold air as usual, with a poise and a regalness that could only be captured in painting. But what was more striking was the look of pure confidence and malevolence in her eyes. It was like she had finally cornered a prey that she had been chasing for months and now was in a position where he could not escape.

She finally responded to him.

''Yes me. Were you perhaps expecting someone else?'' She asked with such honey in her voice that all of the Sharp Claw's hair stood up on his body. The distinct smell that he picked up, as Uxie's blessing did his magic, quickly made him understand what was going on. Or so he thought.

''You vile fox. Don't you have a boy toy for these kind of moments? Why come to me when you are like this?'' He asked with a mean mug, claws unsheathing.

The fox barely blinked at the veiled insult. ''I don't want him right now. I've promised myself that I would break you one day. And that moment is now!'' She purred as she immediately activated Captivate.

Sneasel gulped. No matter how he despised Alolan's Ninetales's demeanors, her allure was impossible to ignore. That fur, that body, that condescending and commanding tone, those deep, purple eyes that seemed to suck his entire focus whether he wanted it or not... She was beautiful, attractive...savage. Sneasel now had the distinctive impression of being a moth and that Ninetales was the most attractive cold flame he had ever seen.

The fox smiled as she compounded her Captivate attack with attract and nearly mewled in sadistic pleasure when she saw Sneasel's fur stand on his skin and his eyes growing less and less focused by the second.

''Listen well, claw boy. I am a kitsune, an unapologetic one. I don't exactly care about anyone but myself. I don't do kindness...I deal in manipulation and pleasure. That is the hand I was dealt in life, and that is how I am going to live it. I don't ask, I bewitch or I take. What I want, when I want and whenever I want...And right now, I will have you...'' She finished as she wrapped her tail against a paralyzed Sneasel.

''U...Unhand me this In..'' Started Sneasel, halfheardly before Ninetales Kissed his neck, making the sharp claw pokemon hiss.

Ninetales smiled. ''My set of skills has given me a lot of insight when it comes to the body of compatible mates, Sneasel. And just by how your body is reacting...I can tell a lot of things about you...virgin boy...'' She purred condescendingly in his ear.

The sharp claw Pokemon, for the first time in a long time, felt like his pride was tore to shreds. Of course, his many adventures and his tutelage under Uxie had left him with very little time to pursue such fleeting endeavors like finding a mate or even experiencing things with his body. But somehow, that accusation still came to search him and broke him out of his lust induced state.

''You little slut!'' Snarled the sharp claw Pokemon as his claws turned to steel. With intent, the ice type swung it toward the fox, whom, with a carnivorous smile, parried his attempt with 9 steel clad tail.

''What the...'' Said Sneasel, completely taken aback.

''Hahahaha! Come on little ferret, you didn't think that I would be so defenseless against steel type attacks did you? I told people this often before...'' She purred before slamming her nine tails on Sneasel's gut, cutting the wind out of him.

"Gahhh...'' Gasped the Dark type, that Iron Tail had hurt.

Immediately, Alolan Ninetales straddled Sneasel and her tails , still coiled around his limbs sealed all movement. He was effectively trapped.

Some blood seeped from Alolan Ninetales's mouth as she watched her prey look at her with pure hatred.

''I love the look you are giving me.. Sneasel. I will change this look into one of shame and ecstasy so profound you will never know who you are anymore...'' She purred as she kissed him passionately.

Sneasel wanted to retch...he wanted to reject everything that was happening to him, however, to his horror, his body, his instincts, that years of discipline and guidance had buried in his soul, were laid bare by the liquid molten pleasure that he was being forcibly plunged into...

''I...I can'...can't take this...'' He fleetingly thought as his instincts gradually clouded his judgement more and more. The pheromones the fox was releasing was also not helping, making his certain parts of his body react and his head being filled more and more by a thick fog.

''Give in...Stop resisting. Show me who you really are, you damned ferret!'' Thought Alolan Ninetales as she pulled all stops, using her body, lips and powers to chip away at his resistance.

The Ice type never knew when he wrapped his claws, with Metal Claw deactivated, around the waist of the fox. He never knew also when he stopped thinking that he was being assaulted. He never knew when his animalistic instinct gradually overturned his rational thoughts, when his voice that was urging him to get away or to resist was completely drowned down by pure, unaltered lust.

His instincts had been laid bare. He wanted the fox so badly. His every nerves felt like they were plunged in liquid azoth, in desperate need of relief.

Alolan Ninetales knew just by looking at the deep red eyes of Sneasel, who were bow much darker than before, that he was cooked fine and ready to be eaten whole.

The fairy type kitsune knew what she had to do, and skipping through the entire teasing, sat down on Sneasel and with them becoming one, felt an ecstasy that was far greater than everything she had experienced so far.

Indeed, as she watched Sneasel's eyes roll back in the back of his skull, Alolan Ninetales savored her victory and incoming feast. She had conquered him completely. He belonged to her now, in mind and in body. Just like the turtle boy toy before him, and just like the frog, that one time...and so many other conquest she had made in the past. So naturally, she had to let him know, deep in his subconscious and on his body, to whom she belonged.

''You're mine now...'' She whispered in Sneasel's ear as she continued riding him, with Sneasel merely grunting in response.

Alolan Ninetales's possessive instincts almost made her lose herself in the submissive grunt that the once dark foe had given her. She was ecstatic beyond belief as she took him again and again.

''You belong to me now!'' She said once again, biting the Ice/Dark type in the shoulder, making him hiss in pain and pleasure.

Indeed, Sneasel's expression was undiscernible. Pleasure, pain, shame, ecstasy, guilt... All of those emotions flashed in his eyes which were barely focusing. This vision only fueled the Kitsune's craze even further, her own rational thought slipping away in wanton pleasure.

''YOU! ARE! MINE!'' She ultimately said, litterally slamming herself on to the poor ferret whose mind snapped completely, fully unleashing his instinct now.

For a long time that night, the primal cries of the joining ritual echoed across the Cerulean cave. It is said that to this day, no taking had been this brutal, no mating had been this primal and no joining had revealed the instinct of Pokemon as deeply as that night. This aura, this event, made all but the strongest and sturdiest foes stay around the same area, where they could feel that anyone interfering or entering in this radius would be turned to shred by the kitsune's power.

000

Alolan Ninetales Sat in the confessional, blood seeping from her mouth and multiple claw marks staining her beautiful fur, but the look of supreme happiness and evil satisfaction in her face talked for her. She didn't need to say anything. Anyone seeing this would understand what that smile meant.

000

Sneasel looked vacantly at the confessional. After long minutes spent staring into the the void, he stood up and asked the camera one simple question: ''W...what happened...to...me...?''

000

"Ahh... That hit the spot! That sparring partner actually had some good bite behind his back. I have to say, that was a brilliant idea from Victini to make me go back to the gyms to battle. I had sincerely missed the thrill...'' Said a weary but happy floating cat as he walked back into his house. Meloetta was away, busy as usual with some prep work for her next few singles and Mew, as much as he loved the legendary songstress, there was a side of him that had been silenced ever since he had changed his ways, all those years back at the hall. A desire to exert and challenge himself through battle. Of course, being a mew, he had certain advantages against regular Pokemon, but they also had pretty good attribute themselves. He was in the A category of duelists, so the Pokemon he would be facing wouldn't be swiss cheese opponents, but Pokemon whom knew what they were doing.

''If this keeps up, I might be able to create my own roster one day and compete for the AUPC team competition, the best team battle competition in the world.'' He muttered as he closed down his door.

''Yeah dude keep dreaming...'' replied a mocking voice.

"Whahhha...Who the hell is there?" asked the scared feline like Pokemon, his small hands immediately illuminating themselves with a pink energy, ready to be unleashed at whoever was trespassing.

''My goodness Mew, you're going to scare the kids away...'' Said a small, snarky voice that Mew immediately recognized and made him roll his eyes, his hands losing the threatening glow they had.

''By Arceus's bounty, Vivi. I know you have the keys to my place and all but at least say that you are here before I blow up the the whole house and you in it. I got that kind of power you know?'' He said as he walked toward the kitchen where Victini was currently occupying with a bunch of analytical instruments and took a cold water bottle from it.

The small pink Pokemon looked around, seemingly disappointed. ''No food done?'' He asked

Victini rolled his eyes. ''You have a fiancée to provide you with homemade meals. About that, how about you flip the script and make her a homemade meal? Surely all these years with the chief oughta taught you how to cook no?'' He replied as he put another sample of the glasses in a machine.

Mew smiled. Victini had come a long way since he had called him with that haunted, dead voice a few weeks ago. He was now back to cracking jokes and being his snarky little self. He could still feel the hollow snippets of pain in Victini 's voice every now and then and knew that it would only be when he would have fully healed that he would be fully back, but the little fire/psychic type was making progress, and that is what mattered.

''I'll make her a good meal and offer her a massage when she comes back. As for you though, any advancement yet?''

Victini's smile lost all warmth. When it came to this investigation, Victini surprisingly shifted to a cold, calculating investigator. Wether he did this in order to cope or to make sure not to let his emotions go berserk he wouldn't know. Still Mew knew his best friend enough not to question him right now. It wouldn't matter anyway.

'' I have been analyzing the glasses for a few hours now. Some glasses are sparkly clean, no problem whatsoever with them. He said as he showed him a pile of glasses neatly folded with each other with perfect placement. A seemingly insignificant trait that however scared Mew a little. Victini was a messy person normally. Seeing that much organization out of him really put in perspective how uncharacteristic he was being right now.

Victini did realize that he was making Mew uncomfortable, but it was the way his mind had decided to help him cope with the situation at hand.

''I'm sorry Dude. You'll have to put up with this side of me for just a little while longer. With my therapy sessions, I was able to discover a lot about myself and the way I work. Until this is done and resolved, I know that it'll be the way i cope. You have seen me at my most zany and crazy, that is why I know that you'll be able to handle me in the end...'' He thought before going into the explications of his findings. Deep down, he was deeply grateful to have a friend, heck , he considered Mew as his brother now, like him.

''But these one... when I passed them through a blue light machine, came out with spots on them. Very finite, powdery spots that seemed to have almost fused with the glass. I am going to have to send these to a lab with more power than these to figure out what are these spots made of." He said as he put the remaining three glassses in sealed bags.

Mew nodded. ''So you are close to the answer, are you?'' he asked the small bunny like Pokemon.

Victini sighed, his body relaxing and the chilly aura around him dissipating. ''Yeah dude. I can feel that I am almost there. Those labs results will be decisive, I am sure of it.'' He said before making all of the equipment disappear into hammerspace.

Turning to the feline cat. The bunny smiled broadly. ''Now about that meal... I actually wanted to thank you for all that you had done for me, so I decided to actually help myself with some of your supplies and cook you something after all.''

Mew blinked. Looking at Victini with an odd look.

''What?''

Mew blinked. ''Victini, you old bunny...since when did you even picked up cooking?'' He asked as he floated closer to the fire/psychic type who had picked up something from hammerspace. A two set of plates that had fogged up was then placed on the table.

Victini's expression grew a bit distant and unreadable. ''I don't know myself. But I just focused on the feeling of gratitude that I was feeling and not really thinking, I just felt that this would be right and i acted on them. Its an exercise that me and Mesprit did often during our therapy session. It turns out that Cooking brought me a lot of inner peace, just like taking pictures. So here, you can be among the first to experience my homemade cooking! Be honored.'' He said with a faux important talk which had Mew roll his eyes.

He then went to uncover the plate and froze in shock. The effluvia that were coming out of the plate were divine. This was really Victini's doing? There was just no way...

The Plate had perfect visual harmony. The rich brown of the noodles, the perfectly cooked eggs, the verdant green onions, the caramelized carrots, and the golden brown meat...this was so perfectly crafted...something Mew only had seen at very high level restaurant. Mew once again turned his head toward Victini, his eyes watering a little and frankly being full of disbelief.

''You...are telling me YOU made this? Victini...This is more than just ''Doing this out of the goodness of your heart at that point...I... I don't even want to eat it...it looks way too Good.'' Mew stammered.

Victini smiled. He knew Mew well. To him, big fancy things were not necessarily needed. Just make him something fancy to eat and you'd have him bawling his eyes out.

"Yup. I feel like I could have made it even better but at least i am happy that you enjoy just looking at it so much. It's honestly too small for all you and Meloetta have done for me over the past few years, but at least I wanted to repay you in a meaningful way. Mesprit told me that there is a lot you can convey with a good meal, and this is just one part of my gratitude. Beside, you still haven't opened the small plate beside that one.'' He noted, chuckling a little.

Mew immediately turned toward the smaller one. No heat from that one, but a delicate sweet smell. Mew opened it and there lied 4 pieces of perfectly placed chocolate and strawberry mini cake. Not a chuck out of line, just 4 perfectly made desserts.

Mew looked at Victini, then hugged him.

''You didn't need too...I...I would have done that either way.. i've been your friend for so long... Arceus man when did you learn to do all that? And to that level of refinement?'' He asked.

Victini honestly couldn't answer this question. ''I don't know myself. But I am glad that I can express my gratitude this way. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, Mew.''

Both friends stayed like this for a while before they heart a distinct

*Click*

Embarrassed, both separated and turned to the direction of the sound, which happened to be Melody the Meloetta looking at them with a lovely smile, a camera in her hand.

''Mel! You scared us half to death! Since when were you back?'' Asked Mew who was blushing a fine red.

Meloetta floated next to her fiancée and gratified him with a soft peck on his cheek. ''Keep trying to distract me from your adorable brotherly moment Mew.''

Victini chukled. ''Where is mine?'' He asked as he extended his cheek out.

Melody rolled her eyes and ''playfully'' slapped his cheek, which sent the unsuspecting Victini crashing on the opposite wall.

''Oops.. I think my little ''peck'' was too much for you to handle wasn't it, little Vivi?'' She mocked the fire/psychic type.

''Owowow... Why are you always so violent with me?'' Moaned Victini as he picked himself up from the wall.

''Because you like it! Said Melody with a twirl, winking at him, making the little fire type blush and look away grumbling.

Mew laughed and pointed to the food Victini had prepared. ''Look at what this little bunny made for us!'' He excitedly showed his girlfriend, whose eyes widened. à

''Wow this looks...and smell divine. You made this?'' Asked Melody . eyes wide in surprise.

''Y..yeah..'' Replied meekly the fire/psychic type.

Meloetta smiled warmly at Victini and went ahead and kissed his cheek. ''That was sweet of you. I can tell you put a lot of effort into this. When did you even learn how to cook?'' She asked curiously.

Victini's stare grew distant, almost wistful. Indeed, he couldn't remember how he picked up that skill. A distant memory floated in front of his eyes.

*A few months ago*

Victini was on a couch. The soft breeze of the air was gently caressing his face. The very picture of relaxation could be painted on his face. He was calm, he was safe.

''Say Victini, how about we focus on ways to relax today? When processing grief and anger, an healthy escape can really go the distance. What do you think could bring you calm and peace?'' Said a gentle, inviting voice.

Victini smiled. He loved to hear that voice. He could listen to it all day long, especially when he was feeling so calm.

''I don't know, but when I focus, i can see myself cooking or taking pictures of sceneries. It feels like bliss.'' He said calmly.

The owner of the voice smiled tenderly. ''Well, I feel like you should pursue those activities. They are pretty useful and they are fun to do.''

''Yeah...'' He replied before drifting off, feeling the owner's hand in between his ears.

Victini snapped back to reality with a puzzled look on his face. Meloetta cocked her head in wonder. ''Is anything wrong Victini? I didn't hit you too hard did I?'' She fussed, suddenly looking afraid and remorseful.

Victini rubbed the back of his head. ''Don't worry Mel, I was just lost in thoughts for a little while, don't sweat it.'' He said with a radiant smile before looking at Mew pulling out chopsticks to eat.

Victini looked curiously at Mew. ''You're going to eat with those?'' He asked the pink feline like Pokemon.

Mew looked at his homie with a puzzled look himself. ''Yeah? I mean its a kantonian dish. Why not eat it the Kantonian way?'' He asked as he psychically threw a pair to Victini who struggled to catch and hold them.

Seeing him trying.. and failing to even hold the chopsticks still made them all roar in a fit of laughter.

''Do you need help Victini?'' Asked Meloetta in her usual sweet voice, making Victini blush horribly. How mortifying this was...

000

In a starry, glassly hall that looked like a kaiju sized conference Hall, many Pokemon were assembled. Some were enormous, some where of more modest sizes. All present however were extremely powerful, world altering forces.

In prominence of it all however was Her. The Alpha. The God of all Pokemon, Arceus. Coiled around her was the renegade Pokemon, Giratina. Who'se actually Pokemon denominator had to be changed soon to the God's shadows, yet, the scholar of the Pokemon world didn't seem too keen on changing the title and role giratina had been given over the years since that one trainer with yellow hair had seeked his assistance against his wife, eons ago. Their loss. Giratina was far from being a monster of the abysses. even if the world needed him to be at times.

When everyone that was available had finished assembling, the Alpha Pokemon started speaking.

''My brethens, I am pleased that you can join me here in spirit. It has been quite a while since we have all assembled like this, haven't it been?'' Said the Avatar of Alpha, looking caringly at her creations assembled around the room

''Well technically, Not since Emuritto started that show of hers in that colloseum. It was quite hype, I would say.'' Said a large, bulky red dinosaur with tribal markings on his body.

''As usual, you like senseless barbaric fighting. No wonder you cannot participate in the legendary smackdowns anymore. When you go Primal, nobody can reason with you anymore...aside from Rayquaza...'' Grumbled another tribal marked Pokemon, this time more akin to a large cross between a whale and an orca, with blue and red coloring actross his giant body.

''I don't wanna hear that from you, tsunami spam. The last time you got excited for a davy back fight the world almost went into a 40 day storms all over again!'' Replied Groudon with a scoff.

Before Kyogre could respond however, Rayquaza launched a spiritual Hyper Beam that shook the room.

''Arceus damnit seriously! Can't you stop bickering for 5 seconds? I thought you'd finally stop it after the war. I don't want to babysit you two anymore, so zip it. I'm too old for this...'' Grumbled Rayquaza as he coiled on himself, his eyes drooping

''Don't talk about babysitting please...Handling the birds when they get into their season is horrible. I had to peel Articuno off Cobalion the last time... And that bird had 2 chicks. One of them even punked out in Galar! Now I have to keep an eye on their proliferation. And I am still only allowed one child per millenias... I call hax..'' Said a Large Leviathan like creature with pure white skin.

''I'd say that your motherly instincts are still pretty good, Lugia. Said Ho-oH, her sister. My children are free like the wind though and even though it is the case, they havent proliferated as much. I have to admit that one of my Suicune children decided to become a sort of Guardian diety for the family of that human of old, Eusine and his Pokemon. QUite a sweet story, that one. '' Reminisced the rainbow Pokemon with a screech.

''I'd much rather stay away and let the Pokemon world just be to be honest. It's fascinating to watch.'' Said a gentle, Sweet voice.

''I honestly agree, Even i my bodies can remove life at will, it is best that we stay as least involved as possible with the normal realm...'' Said a dark voice, looking subdued yet still relatively malevolent.

''Nah, y'all alright, we can handle you two if you get out of hand, right Zygarde?'' Said another voice, smaller and full of pep. Her crown pink diamond didn't seem to bother in the slightest.

The large serpentine Pokemon Merely rumbled, her cell like eyes flashing in approval of the small one's claim.

Arceus smiled. This was much better than have them all stay in grim silence like that one time a few eons ago. She had done a lot to make them understand that they could be themselves in front of her and Giratina.

''Ah - Em. Perdon my interruption. I am aware that we don't gather like this often, but there is a reason why I called you all here today. Said a grave, serious voice amidst the chatter. Everyone fell silent and listened to him at that moment.''

The Pokemon was tall, with scars that clearly indicated his battle hardened statuts. Grey skin that almost looked metallic and purple tail, with a second neck being nessesary to hold his heavy head and big brain.

''Mewtwo, please.'' Said Arceus.

''Thank you, honored one. So I gathered you all here because I have been hearing among the normal and feral realm the appearance of an organization that seek the destruction of Arceus's order, nothing less.'' He said gravely, creating murmurs among the Legendaries present.

''Are you for real? There is no way an organization of that scale can exist. At least i know that in my Island it is not the case...'' Said Tapu Lele with a twirl.

''Sadly he is. I also have heard snippets from my organization'' said a dark voice, as a ghostly like figure rose from the ground, among them.

''They wish to break the order of the world and bring him back to a more savage state. One of their rhetoric is that Pokemon all belong in a jungle like state where the strongest survive. They view in abomination the civilized Pokemon and the lifestyle that comes with it. Said Darkray, a dull

''Indeed. I heard that their biggest feat was to decimate a Colony of Victini that had finally been allowed to proliferate. They even chased some through time itself. As such, Celebi, which in this timeline is the famous clothing brand magnate, cannot be shown in public and uses that passion as a cover in order to be left in peace.'' Continued Mewtwo on a grave tone, looking at his pad.

''I have sent many of my agents in order to infiltrate their operations. But so far, they have even avoided true disposures by some wizardry. As of this moment, I don't know who is their leaders or if their motives have a real way to ever come to fruition.'' Continued Darkrai, a dull blue light of worry emitting from his visible eye.

''I see. The main debate I see coming up is should we, as the guardians of this world, intervene, correct?'' Asked Uxie, who had been there since the beginning, sitting near Arceus as part of the original 7.

Mewtwo nodded. ''I know that our general approach has been to limit our dictats to the earth, as to keep it as pure and natural as possible, but this disruption of order could very well lead us to the end of our world.'' He said gravely.

Azelf, who had been quiet so far, rose. ''I could probably use Darkrai's organization to take them down quickly. Removing the willpower of these fools would be a piece of cake.''

''Easy, embodiment of willpower. This kind of rash action is exactly what makes Pokemon so weary of you.'' Said a giant bat like Pokemon with wings as pretty as the night sky.

Arceus stood and Giratina uncoiled herself. It was amazing how big she was compared to them. Her presence, despite her tender gaze, was immense.

'' I could take a decision, but it wouldn't be natural at all. I will let you decide the course this world shall tackle this issue. Please, discuss among yourselves. She invited.'"

As the clamor rose around the question, Arceus sighed. The conflict was inevitable, but would she still be able to make the right decision concerning this new treat?

000

''- Interesting...'' Thought a pokemon who was very much the boldest in all of them.

Indeed, a certain blue clad Iron Claw Pokemon was currently claws deep into a computer, camouflaged by his use of light screen. The attack was refracting the air around his form, making him grossly invisible.

''The rodent is truly an evil genious. Suggesting that I could use light Screen this way after watching an anime episode was not something expected from him. In fact, I had put him in the 20% least intelligent or smart bracket when I analyzed his characther. However, he is proving me wrong. He is kind of an X factor...and I quite enjoy X factors...''

Indeed, several hours before, Bidoof and Metang were in a corner of the Cerulean Cave, scheming. They were far away that nobody would or could overhear them talking.

''You know, it is important to have a plan B for after the game.'' Said Bidoof as he enjoyed some Sitrus Berries given by some dwellers of the cave that were impressed by the performance in the show.

''Hmm. I see. After all, by my calculation, you have less than 20% chance to win the game, while I sit at a respectable 41%. What you said intrigues me however. What do you do have as an idea?'' Asked the iron claw with his usual rumbling, indicating his amusement.

''Well Honestly, by golly, I don't need money anymore. The picture i've been feeding the tabloids have already made me so much money its insane. Of course I told them not to release any of the insider photos before I personally tell them to, it's written in the contract. I got photos of everyone and especially the girls. People go crazy for those. It's amazing.'' Bidoof said as he finished his berry, cackling in glee.

''You do know that if the host cast you, they can have your head for this right?'' Asked Metang with a dubitative stare.

The rodent scoffed. ''How would they know its me? I've been extra stealthy, both in taking those picture and in how I deal with my clients. I am pretty sure I am home free. Those idiots might want to win that stupid wish, but we know how this game really is played. Politics, Popularity, dumb luck and a smidgeon of skill. That is how you win game like these. In that shortlist, there are two things I do not possess an affinity for. I was originally brought in by the lady to rile the rooster up. But now look at him. He's all grown up now. In only less than 9 months too. It's downright ridiculous how he as grown. That also means that in terms of usefulness, mine has been outlived. Now imagine that for all that nonsense, which includes being folded by a crazy...sexy ferret..., I would get nothing? Hell no. I am not dumb enough to let that happen.'' Said the rodent with a snarl.

''Interesting. I didn't know you could be attracted to females that pack you up. Is this a new thing for you?'' Asked Metang, rumbling again.

Bidoof blushed deeply. ''Don't you dare tell me that you don't find that a little bit hot. Besides, Mienshaos have been one of the most attractive Pokemon, wether they are male or female, for centuries according to polls around the known world. I know she humiliated me, but every time I look at her picture...I'' Said Bidoof before Metang put a claw in front of his mouth, silencing him.

''Even for a computer like me, that is too much information, Bidoof. Keep it as that. Besides, to answer your question, I can definitely see why you would find the ferret attractive. Beside, I would say that human shaped Pokémon have around 60% to find that species attractive. I am not surprised. However, I find other types ..more suitable...'' He admitted.

Bidoof raised an eyebrow. ''You? Actually having a type? And what is it, oh great supercomputer?''

Metang shook his head. ''I am not revealing that to you for now. It is best that I remain the sole holder of this information until I am done analyzing it.'' He said as Bidoof deflated.

After a while, the rodent eyes illuminated themselves. ''I know a way we can control this game better. But you will be the main act...'' He proposed, rubbing his paws together.

Metang narrowed his eyes. ''I am listening. This has a 90% chance of being very instructive, so thus I am all ears.''

Bidoof smiled. ''So you see. You are a supercomputer with very interesting set of moves. So what I am proposing is that you upload yourself to Koko's computer. I have been observing him for a while. He seemed down about something and this spends a lot of time outside his little Caravan. So with you hacking in his computer, we can learn information on the other contestants and maybe even on the future of the game. Who has information controls everything. ''

Metang had to agree with the normal type. He was indeed right. ''I see. However, information is not enough as a payment for partaking in such a mission. I wish to know if you are willing to pay for me endangering my integrity in such a perilous experiment. You do remember that we are dealing with legendary Pokemon, including one with complete dominion over emotions themselves. A scary, lovely target indeed. You understand.

Bidoof nodded. He had expected this. ''Do not worry. I have the means to pay you well for this.'' He assured.

Metand was analyzing bidoof with his stenograph program. To his internal surprise, the bidoof was not lying at all. Where and how much fund did he truly have? He made a mental not to verify this information himself.

''I am your Pokemon. I'll act later tonight.'' Metang said as he cracked his claws. Indeed this would be a mission that he would enjoy.

''Marvelous'' Replied Bidoof, a wicked grin on his face.

Back in the present moment, Metang was fascinated by the information he had found in Koko's computer. Those host were batshit crazy. How would they be able to go through all of these challenges in a row. Each region was involved and each challenges seemed completely insane. But what was more insane was the information that he scratched on the contestant and the legendaries themselves...including Bidoof, who had vastly underestimated his current fortune.

''How interesting. There was still a 5% chance that he was just making up his claim to brag, as he is used to do. Howerver, he has ar more money for someone who would just a few random pictures to tabloids from around the world. Something is amiss here. I will have to confront him about this ulteriorly.'' He decided as he finished his work and immediately used teleport in order to dissapear from Koko's room.

Bidoof, who had been drowsing while waiting for Metang to return, almost jumped to the roof when the Iron claw Pokemon reappeared in the cave in a brief flash of light...

''Statut report?'' Asked Bidoof

''Metang nodded and started giving in his report. ''It seems that the next challenge will involve the region of Jotho. More precisely the while we journey and stay at the whirl Islands. It also does seems that during that challenge, Koko will introduce a new external reward, called the immunity tickets. If you amass 10 of them, you became immune to 1 elimination. It seems that they will be rewards for completing secondary objective during challenges or just will encourage exploration of the different places where the merge will take place. I have taken the liberty to memorize how to make those invincibility tickets and installed a printing function to my circuits. Now we will be able to counterfeit these tickets. I have also learned quite a bit of things about the contestants and some interesting about you. Bidoof.'' Said Metang

Bidoof smiled. ''So you know how rich I actually am then...'' He said with a smirk.

Metang nodded.

''Well, since you saw. You might as well know. I've been recently contacted by ''the organization''. That is how they presented themselves. I know next to nothing about these guys. But They have been very interested in the picture i've taken of Mesprit, Azelf and Uxie. Like they offered me ridiculous amount of money for those pictures. I have no idea why they are so interested by these pictures, but they have insane financial means.

Metang smiled. This had become much more interesting. ''Well them, I can offer my services to look into that organization. Maybe we can extort more money from them.'' Said metang, rumbling yet again.

Bidoof smirked. ''I like the way you think. Welcome to the party!'' He said as he extended a paw.

Metang shook it with no hesitation.

000

Bidoof smiled. ''With that guy in the ranks, I can stay on this island a little longer and make even more money. This game might not be mine to win. But it certainly will be mine to profit.''

000

Metang rumbled in the confessional. ''Interesting indeed. I am happy I followed my analysis. With Bidoof I will secure myself some nice funds as cushion for after the game and I would be able to get more excitement out of the game. How interesting indeed.''

000

In the meadow outside Cerulean Cave, near the starry alcove overlooking the entire city, Lapras had a new Pokemon on her shell tonight. However, Lapras was just satisfying her instinct of transporting someone, while her visitor enjoyed a quiet place to read. It was a symbiotic, advantageous situation for the both of them and they were certainly not complaining about it.

''What have you been reading so fervently, Roserade?'' Asked Lapras as she started going up the Cerulean Canal toward route 25.

Roserade sighed happily. ''I have been reading the old tales of Jiraya the Gallant. I have been allowed by the old Gogoat to borrow that series of book as we left the Island. There are 10 tomes in that series and I am up to tome 3 as of now. '' She explained as she kept reading.

Lapras's eyes illuminated themselves. ''Jiraya the Gallant? That's a series I always wanted to read when I had the time. The critics cannot stop to sign the praises of that book series.'' She gushed

Roserade chuckled. ''I can confirm that those critics are throughout. So far, that book has kept all of its promises and more. I have never been so into a story before. It is enthralling.

Lapras chuckled. ''I can see it in your eyes, Roserade. Do tell me, What made you be into reading so much? There is seldom a time where I don't see you with a book in hand. I am quite intrigued by that.

Roserade signed as she looked to the skies. ''Back home, as you may know, I am the eldest sister of a 10 children family. As such, I have been taking care of all of them for a long while. Almost as if i was yet another parent for them. I love every little one of them to bits, but it got tiring at times. However, when I felt really tired or at the end of my rope, I would partake in aromatherapy to calm my nerves then plunge myself in reading in order to escape. I cannot stress enough on how this method has helped me lessen the stress invoked by my duties as the eldest. I still remember the first time i've entered Eterna Woods Library for the first time. It was like entering a treasure troves full of loot that I knew I would have to spend the rest of my days there if i wanted to uncover them all. I've been in love with reading ever since I was a small budew though, wondering if one day I would get to have even half of the exciting adventures I read in those books or gain even a fraction of the knowledge they held. Now I am here, in the merge of one of these shows I've heard so much about and still reading books. It is quite cathartic when I think about that.'' She explained while chuckling

Lapras was awed. She had no idea Roserade's love for reading was this deep. ''I can see that it truly is an important part of your life..'' She said as her head turned eastward and her soft grey gaze softened.

Roserade sighed. She knew that look. She often had it when she though about her numerous family. ''Is something on your mind, Lapras?'' She asked kindly.

Lapras gasped slightly, startled out of her thoughts by the gentle voice of the plant lady before looking away, embarrassed. ''Am I that easy to read?'' She asked sheepishly.

The grass/poison type laughed heartily. ''Well my good friend, they do say that the Lapras species are very honest. No need more than to look into their eyes to know what they are thinking or feeling. You are an especially kind Lapras, and well, i am used to seeing emotional changes with 10 brothers and sisters back home after all...

Lapras sighed. ''I suppose there is no hiding it then.'' She said as she looked at the moon. ''I am worried about my pudgy sumo boyfriend and my little Triton.

Roserade nodded. ''This reminds me. How did you even encounter that little adorable sea angel?

Lapras shuddered. ''It was very scary actually. Me and Maku went swimming during that day we had at the beach. I went for some underwater swimming, and then I saw a Barraskewda threatening a nest of those pretty eggs. I could only save the one that ended up hatching into our little triton. I still managed to Freeze him to the bottom of the Ocean, where he shall never take another life again!'' She said fiercely, her eyes betraying the powerlessness she felt at only saving this one.

Roserade put an understanding flower bouquet hand atop the transport's Pokemon shell. ''Oh, Lapras. I can only imagine what you must have felt then. But at the very least you have that one tiny life saved. It counts for something.'' She said as she looked at the moon.

Lapras smiled gently. ''Yes you are right. I just wasn't aware that feral Pokemon of this nature still existed today. Pokemon that would prey on smaller, easier prey than themselves for an easy meal... I am just still revolted that something like that could happen in our world today. I know it is natural, but somehow, it dosen't feel right... not to me , at least. '' She admitted as she released an Ice Beam to the skies in frustration.

The Plant Pokemon sighed. 'I can understand that. Especially for a species as gentle as yours. While humans still walked this plane, most Pokemon on Pokemon feeding would only happen in extremely isolated areas, where the influence of Humans and their morals would not modify the behavior of the local Pokemon. But after their dissapeareance, Nature took back its dominion, and Pokemon Predation has drastically augmented. Thankfully, we can still live on berries if it is too much for us to take lives to feed. However, I would say that as Nature is pure, Predation is a part of life. I would consider any kill for food with gratitude and respect the Pokemon whom I would end its life for sustenance.'' She answered eloquently.

Lapras was surprised. ''Woah! I had no idea that you were this knowledgeable, Rosie.'' She said with wonder in her eyes.

Roserade smiled at the nickname. ''Rosie is it now?'' She chided amicably.

Lapras blushed and looked to the side. ''Oh..I'm sorry if it bothers you...I can call you Miss Roserade still if...'' She started blabbering

Roserade simply started glowing green, a pleasant smell permeating the area, making Lapras instantly relax.

''Don't fret the details, Lapras. I feel quite honored that you feel this comfortable with me. I don't mind at all. Now let us enjoy the evening. In such a high-stress environment, taking those evenings to recover and relax is paramount.

Lapras nodded softly, as she laid her head atop a small shoreline on route 25, listening to the of chirps of the night birds, the busy cries of the insect busy woeking the soil while they were feeling the area with their lovely chirps and crises.

''Once this is over...i would love to become a scholar. To uncover the truth of this world. The truth about the legendary Pokemon. The truth about the state of the world. Maybe I shall embark on a journey of my own. After looking after the little ones for so long, I feel like I need to cater to my own desires. I do not believe that they would be so selfish, wouldn't it?'' Asked the plant Pokemon, watching her bouqueted hands.

Lapras chuckled. ''Not at all, my friend. I remember what my mother said when I was a small little Lapras.''

*Small Flashback*

A little Lapras is swimming near her imposing but gentle mother. "Listen, my little treasure. It is fine if you want to join the family business. We Lapras prides ourselves in our ability to transport after all. However, you need to know that this isn't your only path in life. As your parents, we can only hope and pray that you will find fulfillment no matter what you decide to do. One day, you'll have ot leave the nest to do what you truly want to do. Then use everything you have learned to excel in your path.'' She said as she gave her little Lapras a loving nuzzle.

*End of flashback*

Roserade smiled softly as she listened to that story. ''It seems that your mother was extremely wise, Lapras.'' She praised the water typeà

Lapras laughed as she resumed swimming, Roserade atop her shell.

000

Roserade was in the confessional smiling. ''I had a hunch. But I am glad that I found In Lapras such a kindred soul. She is a good friend.''

000

Lapras smiled in the confessional. ''Rosie is a good Pokemon. Knowledgeable too. I feel that when i'll be with Triton again her counsel will be extremely valuable. But even beyond that, her Aromatherapy is so calming. I...I could so easily get addicted to it...'' She said dreamily

000

''I'm off to train. Mienshao gave me a Laundry list to do for training while I am away of the Island and she told me to do them alone. I don't think It would hurt that you are around. But that girl has ninja powers. I have half a fear that she jump off the scroll and KO me or smt.'' Joked the monkey Pokemon as he made acrobatic figures on the ceiling of the cave.''

Lopunny smiled weakly. ''I understand, my little monkey. Just be careful. I wouldn't want you to hurt yourself okay. This cave is dangerous after all. You need to promise me that you won't go crazy okay?'' She said softly.

Touched, Monferno leaped toward her and kissed the ghost type phantom lovingly. ''I wouldn't dream of it sweetheart. I will be back in no time...'' He said as he bounded toward the designated spot in the cave.

The Ghost type looked at his disappearing form for a few seconds with a smile, making sure that he wasn't in sight before she collapsed to the ground, groaning in pain.

Quickly, she felt her counsciousness slip and one instant later, she was inside her own head, face to face with the Gengar inside her head. Oddly enough, the Gengar had a grave expression on her face, and her colors looked more faded than before. She then looked at herself. Much to her horror, her paws were looking faint. She could almost see through them. She panicked and vomited to the side, unable to bear what she was seeing.

''W...what's happening to me...? What's happening to us?'' She asked, feeling sick and weak. It was an horrible feeling. She felt like if she lost focus she would vanish completely.

Gengar looked at her in disgust. ''It finally started, Lopunny. The world is not so kind that it would allow love and fuzzy feelings to get in the way of order. The world, nature works on order. And we are currently troubling that order. Normally, your soul should have morphed into mine. But you clinging to life has created a separate personality which the Gastly that was formed at your passing inhabited. Long story short, your true state as a Gengar is finally starting to overpower you clinging to life. In other words, you NEED to act as a Gengar to keep the order of the universe satisfied. If you keep refusing to act and feed as a Gengar would, you will essentially run out of otherwordly force and you will vanish. Since we cannot die again, being Ghost types, we will simply cease to exist. You can no longer put this up. and I will no longer comply. Desesperation and weakness makes you weak. And now, until you accept your condition as a Gengar...I shall dominate you!'' She said as her eyes grew red. For a second, all Lopunny could see was red. And quickly she lost all feelings. When she came to, a few seconds later, she could tell. She wasn't in control anymore, and her crying eyes made it all apparent.

Gengar looked at the crying soul of Lopunny and sighed. As cuttroath she wanted to sound, she also had grown fond of her new afterlife. She also had fallen in love with the Monkey whom had looked past her true essence to touch her soul. A monkey that understood her regardless of how she would act, even if he expected her to not act like a wraith. But self preservation came before love. She needed to live, and to keep that soul alive, she needed to do acts that Lopunny would be reticent to.

''One day, you'll thank me for this, Lopunny. You are me, and you showed me a lot to ways to live and to feel. But now, for the sake of our survival, i'll take the reigns. If you accept willingly this state of affair, not only my strenght will be stronger, far stronger now that our souls will finally resonate instead of being at odds, but nobody will understand the difference, let alone see it. I wish not to see the world burn, but I do seek to see it. I won't let you get us killed.'' She said as she walked away from the spot she had fallen, picking herself up. She craved negative emotions, she craved chaos...but she most of all craved blood. But she knew that she wouldn't be able to sample it from just anybody.

During the night that followed, If one side of the cave echoed in wanton pleasure that completely warded off the vengeful wraith, on the deepest level of the cave, a carnage was about to happen.

A group of clefairies were quietly dancing to the rocks above their head, oddly looking like a beautiful moon. However, they stopped as they heard heavy, resolute steps coming toward them. The closer those steps came, the Clefaries came to feel this indescriptible terror.

''Wh...what is that?'' Asked one Clefairy as she hid behind a larger one.

''I...i don't know. Is Mewtwo finally deciding to kick us out?'' Asked another one.

''We won't let him do as he please. We have been living in this cave far longer than that cat has been. One good Metronome and he will be gone!'' Said a bolder one, her fingers already ready to wag.

''YOUR...EMOTIONS...YOUR BLOOD...YOU..R...PANI..C. ARE MINE!'' Said a disembodied voice.

The clefairy group wanted to flee of course...but it was impossible. Their fear seemed to compound each passing second and it stuck them into place.

Soon enough, the monster repeating these words in a loop came in a loop...and..it was terrifying.

Her fur was soiled with purple energy. Her paws now adorned three sharp claws. Her eyes, black with Red pupils, one red with black pupils. Tendrils of purple energy were oozing out of her.

''Now...Lopunny, i'll show you the pleasure of carnage...'' She said as she launched herself at the Clefairy colony with a guttural cry.

One Clefairy tried to launch a moonblast attack at the wraith.

...

...

Big Mistake.

With a powerful kick, Gengar sent the attack flying at the smaller Clefairy, which didn't even have the time to dodge the attack. An explosion later, and the poor pokemon was quite still, rendered unconscious with a single hit.

''Leffy!'' Shouted an clefairy in dismay. In the meantime, Gengar absorbed the feeling of utter fear and pain she had caused, and licked her lips. Unable to hold back, she let out a crazed laugh as she launched at another clefairy, plunging her claws through her in a shadow claw.

The clefairy screamed in fear an pain, which were promptly absorbed, making the Gengar even stronger.

Some Clefairy tried to run away, but in an instant, they were cut down by the crazed wraith, which drew blood from them, mercilessly draining their pain and panic like an all you can eat buffet.

She kept going, almost dancing phantagorismatically in between the clefairys, planting chaos and misery all around her.

''Can you feel it! This rush? This pleasure? This sentiment of power? This desire of carnage ? This pure, unaltered feast? That is what we truly are, Lopunny!''

She said as she kept on going for a few minutes, until the last Clefairy had been slain and drained of their negative emotions.

Once she was done, she returned to her spot, patiently waiting for Monferno to come back from his training.

Lopunny had been able to feel everything that her wraith companion had wanted her to see. She had felt this pleasure, felt that hedonism, felt that feeling of abandoning herself to the pure expression of her power. It had shook her. Lopunny was not at all an hedonist. But even she had to admit that it was a rush, a pleasure she felt quite foolish to be denying herself. She always had a possessive streak. Happiness was how her species evolved after all, and right now, her happiness was to be at Monferno's side for the rest of his life. If she wanted that however, she would need to remain alive and existing still.

''I had no idea...this could feel so right...so exhilarating. Is this what being in tune with you provides?'' She asked herself.

Gengar grinned. She finally got it. ''Of course. You now see what happens when you indulge in your true self. There is nothing wrong with caring for the things you care about, and those are things I care about as well. However, I happen to have far less inhibitions than you do. So when you see a problem that needs fixing, let me take over and it will disappear. Feed yourself like this and you'll see just how much better life and in our case, afterlife can be.'' Gengar assured as she licked her lips wickedly.

Lopunny nodded slowly.

Monferno arrived shortly after, looking bruised up like crazy. ''Sorry claws...I had no idea that this crazy ferret was going to set me up with a monster house...'' He groaned before passing out in her arms.

Gengar eyes widened. ''A monster house? Here? But this isn't even a mystery dungeon. How would she be able to summon a monster house?'' She said with worry as the fire/fighting type started snoring.

Without thinking, the ghost type felt herself being compulsed to bite Monferno's shoulder. She didn't know why, but it felt so right, as if it was the right move to do.

As she drew blood from him, she absorbed all of his frustrations, pain and ill feelings, feeling herself grow full for the first time ever. It was such an exhilarating feeling that her eyes unfocused and she lost herself in the 'taste', so to speak. Her colors returned, and she felt even more powerful.

In a sense, she had now marked Monferno as hers, and it felt so right. Besides, now that she had absorbed his ill feelings, fatigue and pain, he would be refreshed and ready to go like new when he woke up. Looking at the now peaceful face of her Monkey boyfriend, Gengar made herself a vow.

000

Gengar looked at the camera with a slightly crazed look on her face. ''Monferno, you are the one who accepted me as I am and who now feeds me as well. You are my reason for living this after life. Me and Lopunny both. We'll keep you happy and we'll keep you safe. No matter what we have to do...'' She said as the camera frosted and stopped working.

000

After their challenge in the Kanto region, a big, luxurious Yatch was bringing the contestants and the hosts, as well as their entourage, toward the Jotho region through the detroit of Jotho. The weather was sunny and lovely. The front of the yatch welcomed many maritime bird Pokemon whom seemed unafraid to roost on the ship's coat and sides, before taking of once again in the clear blue skies. Among the more luxurious cabin, a certain totem Pokemon was franctically preparing some stuff on his office furniture. Flowers, a card, even a few scribbled pages.

Now what was the cause of such a frantic movement from the part of the Co-Host?

''How am I supposed to...ask her out..?'' Asked himself the Thunder Tapu. Shifting from left to write, the electric guardian was staring at his pocket picture of Latias.

The electric guardian have had a crush on the eon pokemon for a while, and she seemed not uninterested by the looks of it and the way she had been teasing him for the past few weeks. Koko wanted to believe that it was green light for him and that he just needed to grow the nerve to ask her out, but everytime that he thought he had worked the courage to ask her out, he got deflated for some reason. It was infuriating.

''I finally grew more confident than ever before. I can actually talk to girls without turning into a lilipup in heat or a stuttering baby Pokemon...but when it comes to finally make that step...I just cannot make it...I swear by Arceus...the little beaver might not be completely out of his depth when he calls me a child...'' He said frustratingly as he sat down on his bed, forcing himself to calm down.

''I need to calm my nerves... The way I am now, there is no way that Latias will take my words seriously...'' He rationalized as he reminisced a conversation he had with Mesprit a few days prior.

They were back in Sosei Island, a few days before the announcement of the merge. Tapu Koko was staring at the lake where Mesprit liked to take a dip from time to time. he sighed.

''This is not working...I can't seem to work the proper nerve. Every guys gives me the same advice...but just one look into her golden eyes and everything just fades...How...why is it so difficult?'' Thought tapu Koko.

''Tapu Koko, having trouble?' I can hear your thoughts so loudly they are not private anymore.'' Said a soft voice which calmed him greatly.

The electric guardian smiled. Mesprit had settled next to him, a cup of tea in her hand and a cup of tea in her other one, extended one to him.

''Thanks Mes. I needed that.'' Said the electric Guardian thankfully as he downed the warm liquid, appreciating the warmth and the comfort it brought him.

''So, what's troubling you so much rooster?'' Asked the being of emotion, patting the back of the totem Pokemon encouragingly.

''Well Mes, I am wondering what's so hard about telling Latias how I feel.. She's so cute, her antics are fun to watch and be part off, she seems still somewhat mature and despite all, she has a down to heart personality take makes people want to stick around her. Yet...I can't bring myself to tell her this whenever I look into her eyes. I become so shy and my thoughts just becomes muddled within my mind and I know that I won't talk without making a fool of myself...''

Mesprit nodded sagely before asking...''Is that all Koko?'' she asked invitingly. However, as Koko's gaze crossed Mesprit's, he could see that she knew that something else was also at play her and that it would be best that Koko admitted it.

The rooster totem sighed. ''There truly isn't hiding anything from you is it?'' he said with a chuckle.

''Indeed, little one...'' replied Mesprit, caringly.

''Well...lately, even though I direct my affections at Latias...I cannot help but have her appear in my thoughts. It's stupid. I've been crushing on Latias for months now..and in comparison I've only met her once. But I cannot get her out of my head. Sometimes, I even feel like I am attracted far more to her than Latias...and I don't understand why. Why would I be so drawn to someone I only met once...compared to a litteral good friend?'' Asked the electric/fairy type.

Mesprit smiled. She had seen this dillema so often in her lifetime that she couldn't count them anymore. And she knew which advice to give because In the end, she couldn't influence anyone too much about these matters.

''My dear Koko. At the end of the day, I could make you a long and detailed breakdown of how emotions works. I am the being of emotions after all. But instead, I'll tell you this. Your soul should be your guide. Do whatever you feel is right and be yourself. Playing a role will not bring you real love or happiness. Use this opportunity as a chance to grow, because it is just a matter of trying and believing in your convinction. The worst they can say is no!'' She said before floating away, leaving him to his own devices.

''The worst they can say is no...Why they?'' asked the small rooster as he resumed his contemplation of the water's surface.

Tapu Koko opened his eyes. Mesprit was right. The worst Latias could say was no, but with the way she smiled when he was with her, the way she teased him to oblivion and the way she looked at him sometimes...surely she would share those feelings he had for her...right...?

...

...

...

Tapu Koko was paralyzed. His gaze fixated in shock as he watched the scene happening in front of him. The object of his affections, Latias, was kissing a blue Pokemon that looked just like her, a Latios then. Rather tenderly too. Next to him, the bouquet of flowers he had prepared with the select flowers he knew Latias liked...answers he had coaxed out of her carefully as to not wake any suspicions, lying on the ground, as well as the card he had prepared for her. Prideful, the thunder Totem bit back tears, as he felt that his heart was rip into two. Obviously, he was jealous. Obviously, he was confused. After all that teasing, all those moments they shared, after all of that tension...This was the result? A part of Tapu Koko wanted to go confront that Latios who dared to put himself in his way, but the maturity he had acquired while on the show stopped him. It was not this Latios's fault. He shouldn't have assumed that Latias would be his in the first place before she had accepted his feelings and returned them.

''I'll see you later, Kav...I love you.'' Said Latias tenderly to her heart's holder.

''I cannot wait to see you again Lav', I love you.' Replied the sweet Eon Pokemon before taking off.

Latias sighed. She had been lucky to have him. She didn't have regrets with her decision...but she knew that it would potentially hurt the one Mon that had become quite fond of and close to.

As if on cue, she turned around and gasped as he saw Koko's shadow behind the corner of the Yatch and the flowers that was next to him. What horrible timing this was... However, she was expecting this moment to happen and she knew that shooting him down would be difficult. But it had to be done... She just wished that the circumstances would have allowed her to do so in a less cruel fashion.

Taking her courage with both hands, knowing that she had to do that, for the sake of the both of them, she called out for him.

Tapu Koko heard it. He heard Latias calling out to him. Frankly, he wanted nothing more to go back in his room and yes, as unmanly as it would sound, cry all the tears of his body. He had been rejected countless times by girls before, but even he knew it was mostly fading crushes with no real chances of any serious development.

With Latias however, it had been the first time where he genuinely wanted...and believed that he had a shot. Hence...this time...it actually...really hurt.

''Tapu Koko, please. I know how you must feel and I am sorry. But come. We have to sort this out as adults. Don't hide and come on out.'' She implored him.

Tapu Koko didn't have it in him to hide. Trying his best to look dignified and collecting himself the Tapu Picked up the flowers that had fell and simply held them close to his body as he floated toward the Eon Pokemon.

Understandingly, the Pokemon that were occupying the same space left the area in order to give the two some well needed privacy. Only one didn't leave, but was invisible to their perception.

A long silence settled between the two as the Yatch sailed to and fro, the salty wind of the sea soothing the both of them lightly before Koko broke the Ice.

''Since when, Latias?'' He asked.

Latias frowned for the first time in a long time. Koko's voice sounded so hollow that she hated it. She couldn't blame him though. She had essentially led him on for so long that she knew she was responsible for this. She owed him at least this.

''A month Koko. Kav has been a Latios I liked ever since I was a teenager though...but I never knew if I truly wanted to be with him...Especially with you in the picture.'' She explained.

''I can tell...'' Bitterly stated the electric rooster as he watched his hands , still holding the flowers and the card.

Latias's eyes watered. She recognized the flowers Koko had in his hands...The exact pattern that she liked, the card. She could tell that he had put a lot of effort into that...and she gently touched the necklace holding the Latiasite she was still holding.

''I'm sorry...'' she said softly.

Koko lifted his head, looking confusedly at the Eon Pokemon. ''What do you mean?'' He asked

Latias sighed softly. ''Listen rooster. Kav has been there since my teenage years, but I was never approached in that way by another Pokemon before you came along. You were so fun to tease, to fluster...but also to talk to, to be with, to play pranks with and to... I also started to have feelings for you. It is very possible that if you had asked me out before Kav finally decided to, you might be in his shoes. But... Koko... I liked you. I still do...but it is not as deep as what I feel for Kav. Its a long and complicated story, but i knew that in time, If i got with you, I would hurt you. Of course, you only worked the nerve to ask me out now, but I knew that you liked me a few months back. I wasn't with kav, so I tought...I could have you both... In a way. I was selfish because I genuinely couldn't pick one over the other. But when I did, I wasn't upfront with you because I liked the attention you gave me. I liked the way you looked at me. I wanted it to continue, so I kept giving you signals... I shouldn't have because I knew that I couldn't keep playing with you like this. It was cruel. But now, I didn't get the chance to shoot you down softly and quietly. You saw me kiss Kav...I feel horrible because you don't deserve to be toyed with like this... I can see it in your heart. You truly like me, even if I can feel someone else in your thoughts...just like how I was... isn't it?'' She said as tears fell from her eyes.

Tapu Koko nodded sadly. ''I...I genuinely don't know what to say. So often I wanted to tell you how I feel, and hoped you returned my feelings in some way. But I always couldn't find the words to tell you. Looking into your eyes would mess me up and I wouldn't be able to talk, always changing the subject or just pass by the subject entirely, making you tease me even more. I can't be mad at you...well, i agree...I am alittle mad at you. But before I would have attacked you...or him on the spot. Now...there is a part of me that is almost relieved. I don't know what love is, Latias. I knew that I liked you, but if you claim to Love Kav and only like me, It wouldn't be fair for me to be mad at you. No matter how strong my crush on you is, I don't feel comfortable getting in the way of love...'' Said the Rooster emotionally.

Latias looked at Koko with sadness, but also with Pride. ''Wow, you impress me greatly Koko, you can be suprisingly deep when you want to...'' She said as Koko looked away, blushing.

''Don't get too used to it...'' He muttered before Latias picked his face with both of her paws,

''Koko, Look at me okay...'' She asked softly.

Reluctantly, the electric type looked at Latias pretty golden eyes. He could see the warmth and the regret her gaze held. She wasn't hiding anything from him and it touched him.

''You are an important Pokemon to me. My selfishness has caused you pain and I am sorry, so sorry to have hurt you in that way. I am sorry for not having been upfront with you and even if it wasn't my intentions, I toyed with your heart. Your feelings were pure, and I should have respected them. I don't want you to pity me though or guilt trip you into accepting my relationship with Kav. But I want you to see by yourself how I feel about you..and how you matter...'' She said as her eyes sligthly watered again.

Koko couldn't act as if he couldn't see. Latias's might as well had carved out her heart and showed him what was inside. He could see how genuinely he mattered, how he was cared for and her distress and guilt made his heart wrench. He hated to see Latias sad. he realized that now.

Latias as well could see Koko's heart bare. That is why she knew that someone else have had a powerful effect on him. She didn't want to bring it up because it did not excuse her actions and her selfishness. It didn't matter if there was, deeply hidden in his heart, another Pokemon that fascinated him. So she wouldn't. She wanted him to mend his hurt heart today. She still in all honestly liked Tapu Koko, and would be selfish one last time.

''I can't be mad at you... You are also important to me, Latias. Your happiness is more important than..'' he started before Latias's claw poked his cheek.

''Stop right there... Koko. I hate it when you guys do that... You always try to hide your pain with made sentences like my happiness is more important. Shut up okay! Your happiness too is important. I could not be happy knowing that it was at the expense of your happiness!'' She said as she threw herself at the Tapu, hugging him tightly.

Tapu Koko was taken by surprise, but relaxed, hugging Latias back. He did care about her a great deal, he liked her. But at this moment, he truly wondered.

''Are my feelings for Latias strong enough to warrant her love? If she is happy with Kav, should I really get in between them?''

Latias nuzzled Koko as they separated, looking in each other's eyes. Latias could see how Koko was hurting and she could see his internal battle, as the totem Pokemon processed his feelings for her.

The Guardian Pokemon was indeed struggling. The only reason why he had even went through this trouble was that he was persuaded that Latias would be his. He also thought that he could never find such a perfect fit for him... But he had eyes. The way Latias had looked at Kav, he way they had kissed. The way they had talked. He knew that no matter what...

it was over.

Koko looked down sadly, tears threatening to fall from his eyes. Latias tenderly touched his forehead with her own, then, in a moment of mutual understanding, both Pokemon closed their eyes, opening their hearts to each other fully.

This exchange of pure openness only lasted a few seconds, but to the two legends, it might had been centuries between them. When both Pokemon opened their eyes again, Koko's eyes lowered.

Latias had a sad smile on her face. ''You felt it, didn't you? She said.

Koko nodded slowly.

Latias nodded. ''And that, is the difference between liking someone and loving someone. When romance is involved Koko, its just not the same. This is why words like, ''I love you'' are so powerful. One cannot pronounce them lightly...'' She explained before gently releasing Koko from her embrace.

''I love Kav and I like you, Koko. For this reason I cannot be your girlfriend. But I can be your friend, your confident, your bestie even, if you want.'' She said with a soft smile.

Koko nodded. ''I can't say that I love you either, even if I Like you very much. I can tell with the way your eyes shines whenever you speak of Kav that you truly love him. So I understand. But I will be your friend, your confident , your bestie even, and if he hurts you, the wrath of all guardians of Alola will be upon him.'' He said with a smile.

Latias smiled as well. ''Now that's the smile i have grown fond of!'' She said before kissing Koko's cheek.

''I know that you will find someone to love as well, Koko. And someone who loves you. Maybe that lovely stoic Meloetta I see pop up in your mind from time to time...'' She said playfully.

Koko looked flustered. ''You've been peeking on my mind?!'' he asked, vibrating angrily.

''Yup!'' She said as she zipped into the sky.

''Why you...!'' growled Koko as he quickly followed.

Soon, only red and yellow streaks were seen chasing each other in the blue skies.

Back on the ship, Mesprit faded back into existence as she took place in the deck, watching the two play mach 4 tag in the sky. She reflected on what she had seen.

''Finally, these two sorted out the tension that existed between the two of them. I remember scolding Latias good when I realized that she was taking advantage of Koko's pure crush on her. They are both young Pokemon, so adorable yet inexperienced in the matter of the heart. However, they both handled this with surprising maturity. Especially Tapu Koko. I don't think I've ever been more proud of a Pokemon's growth since...him... He will make a splendid lover one day, I am sure. Of course, Koko will be disappointed for a while and it is to be expected, but he will move on. Besides, I can tell that this other Pokemon he has in his heart will soon help him get over this crush.'' thought Mesprit as he watched them play together above the skies.

000

Tapu Koko was in the cabin that served as confessional in the ship. he didn't have the flowers and the cards anymore, those having been taken by Latias for safekeeping.

''It is a weird feeling. I feel like I should have been heartbroken or angry at Latias and at Kav, or cursing myself for not being fast enough...but I don't feel any anger, any hatred toward any of them. If anything, I am feeling bigger, stronger...I just hope...that I can find love, me too...'' He said as he looked wistfully at the skies...

000

Latias hovered in the confessional. ''I might have made him laugh and helped him process his grief and disappointment...I feel horrible still for how I treated him and led him on. The fact that he forgives me is immense. I will devote my life to repay that debt by being the best friend he can have. It's the least I can do for him...

000

''I see, thank you Azelf. I take notes. I wasn't aware that this organization was starting to move again. What did the council decide?... What are you serious, how long to they expect us to remain inactive? Hmm yeah that make sense. Alright then, i'll keep focusing on the show, but please, be careful. We don't know what they are actually capable of as of now. Ohh stop acting like the macho unflinching man, Azelf, I know you. You're itching to fight them, do you? hahaha I jest, I jest. But still, make sure you move right, I don't want anyhting bad hhappening to you okay? Take care brother...'' said a kind voice as she looked from her cabin's window, where she had returned after witnessing Tapu Koko being turned down by Latias.

The lovely pink host had a lot on her mind lately. At the forefront of her thought had this situation Azelf had just described.

''An organization that intent to break the status quo we have kept going for several centuries, acting in the shadows in order to prepare for a grand offensive. Many times, we had to deal with human organization that seeked the same result, but never our fellow Pokemon had done the same...at least not before lately. This is an odd thing. The order of the world is not perfect, but it is certainly just. I cannot fathom why a group of Pokemon would want to break that status quo?'' She thought as she played with her feelers nonchalantly.

As the being of emotions, she had seen countless grandeur ambitions be broken. Only a few times was the world truly threatened to end by foolish endeavors. All the time, they were stopped. Even if this one looked more serious, she had no reason to truly fear it, as she would stop it again. She had the power, especially if her other two siblings joined.

Which brought her to the second thing on her mind. A certain white furred, V forehead shaped, fire/psychic bunny who was missing. He hadn't had a therapy session for a few months now. She could see that he was doing much better, and it was a testament at how she had been able to break through the ball of pain and suffering that was Victini, but something was amiss. The more she had talked to the bunny, especially about the past, the more she had been certain that something was missing. She hadn't missed the fact that Victini never referred to what happened before his time in college, as if that time was completely irrelevant. It was impossible, but just invoking the subject seemed to put Victini in such a panic that once, she had to actually send him to sleep before he exploded the entire room. In fact...

''He doesn't remember it, but It was not the first time he had fell asleep in my lap, that little bunny...'' She recalled, chuckling. Indeed, Mesprit had to lull him to sleep many times before, especially at the beginning, where he had such trouble handling his anger and bitterness that sometimes, making him temporarily forget his anger was the only way they would get any progress done. She could simply remove the actual emotion, but she had found that simply tweaking the application of the move hypnosis worked better with him. Mesprit had been surprised at how fast the bunny had accepted that she hold this power over him. Calming the bunny down that way had left him vulnerable to her abilities and had led them to bond in an odd way. She knew that the way she had done therapy with the bunny was less than orthodox, but the results were definitively there.

But there was something odd with him, lately. Ever since that night she had went to the bar to, as shamefully as she felt about it, drink her sorrows away, Victini had not come back for another therapy session. Which was extremely odd. Yes she had been busy with the show, and could not meet with him as often as she wanted, which she found oddly frustrating now, but the way he was looking at her had changed as well. There was no trace of that gentle, even shy look of in his eyes. A look that she attributed to Victini possibly liking her, which would certainly be in character. She had come to secretly enjoy that look. Even if eons had passed, she was still a womon. It felt quite flattering to be looked at as a women from time to time. However, now, it was not adoration and trust that she could see in his eyes, but a strange...lingering, fear.

''Why do you fear me, Vivi?'' She thought with a shadow passing over her eyes. Mesprit could not recall a time where she had made Victini truly fear her, to the point that it would be the dominant emotion he would feel when he would look into her eyes. This made no sense. That fact, coupled at the fog around her mind after that night made it all the more frustrating.

Her thought were quickly changed though, as she looked through her schedule. The Emotion Pokemon never liked to wallow in negativity for long. It just wasn't in her nature. The next challenge was soon to happen. She had asked the captain to take a more scenic route to Jotho, where they would hold their second challenge of the merge. It wasn,' going to be extremely complicated, but it was going to be quite hard. She could only smile as she then looked at the show's rating. She smiled. The show's popularity was now surpassing staple mainstays for their categories. It seemed that people had missed the TPI genra alot. She was glad that they were entertained after all...

000

Mesprit twirled in the confessional. ''It is good to see such progress. I'll have to remember to celebrate with Koko and my entourage afterward...'' She remarked as the camera turned static.

000

The following Morning, The big Yatch finally landed on a beautiful Island surrounded by crystal blue waters. Everyone got of the boat and Stretched, with people staring at Alolan Ninetales who was flanked to her left with an aloof-looking Wartortle and to her right a rigidified, glassy-eyed Sneasel who was not making as much of a sound. It was actually a bit creepy.

Hatterene gracefully rearranged her hair hat as she caught Koko staring a little. This pleased Hatterene, who was still coming to term with her evolution, as Koko was a quite attractive Pokemon in her eye still.

Her rotom phone seemed to share her thoughts, as it took a few pictures of her as she gave it a mischievous smile. From what her followers told her, it seemed that hatterenes were pretty popular On Poketube, because of their beauty and their rarity, most of them prefer to remain isolated.

Bidoof waddled toward Mesprit, whom for the occasion was wearing a beautiful silver and gold yukata with flower patterns, and asked. ''So, lady, what's the task today?'' He asked as he gave a big yawn.

The Goddess of emotion shot him a slightly annoyed look. ''Always so impatient, are you?'' She replied as the beaver looked away.

Monferno, flanked by his Alpha Loppuny-sized Girlfriend, landed on the ground and stretched. He felt so good it was amazing. Aside of some odd teeth mark on his shoulder, he felt strong enough to take on the entire gauntlet of legendary Pokemon if he had too.

''By Arceus! I never felt so good in my life, especially after such a vigorous Workout. Claws! We are going to win today! I can feel it in my bones!'' He shouted with a fist in the air

Lopunny? just smiled at him with a lovestruck look on her face.

Tapu Koko rolled his eyes, but had a smile on his face. ''Well can't fault him for feeling pumped! This is the merge after all.'' He said as the group approached the entrance of the cave.

As they entered said cave, they could only be amazed by how beautiful it looked. The walls of the cave where a deep blue, as if they were under the ocean instead of being on an Island. A soft melody, created by the air running inside and outside its many tunnel seemed to plunge the group in a strange atmosphere, where they were not sure if they were still in the world of the living. The glow was faint, as if animated by an internal flame.

Roserade walked up to Mesprit, who was conversing with the rooster.

''Excuse me, Milady, but where are we?'' she asked reverently.

Mesprit smiled at Roserade. She very much appreciated the look in her eyes, full of curiosity and wonder. Indeed, Roserade was among her favorite Pokemon to win it all, not that she would ever tell her. Instead, she just settled to answer her question.

''This is the Whirl Island Sapphire Cave. Long ago, after the creation of the burn and tin tower, a natural disaster brought on by the remnants of Kyogre and Groudon's fighting landed here near Cianwood. The Lady of the sea, Lugia, tamed the storm and its aftermath created the Whirl Islands. As it became an high concentration of Primal Energy, Lady Lugia decided to enlist residence here in order to protect it. That energy is the reason for the constant whirlpools that normally circle this Archipelago and what gives the walls of this cave this etheral blue color.

Metang nodded. ''That is indeed correct. Technically, corporates would have a 70% chance of gaining a surefire way to quick enrichment if they were to exploit the sapphire like state of these rock formations, not to count the salt and the granit deposit this set of caves possesses.

Bidoof smiled. ''By Golly, that would make is easily the richest of the region'' He said, licking his lips and preparing to retrieve a sample of a pure sapphire rock.

Almost as immediately as he started his rock smash attack, he was immediately fried by several attacks, ranging from Moon Blast to Hydro Pump

''How uncouth. One as you almost is unworthy to thread these sacred grounds...'' Said a refined, but displeased feminine voice.

''I cannot believe that a rodent like you could even think of something so vile. Do you have not an ounce of respect for your sorroundings? No wonder you look like a barbarian...'' Said an harsh, raspy voice that sounded old and feared

''At least some other of them looks cute enough...'' Said another one, sounding perky and even a little lecherous.

''Now now, please behave properly ladies, we have esteemed guests among us now...'' Said a voice that definitely sounded like it belonged to the Matron. And she sure looked like it.

Fraxure stared at the group that had formed in front of them. ''What the...'' She said, stupefied.

Croagunk whistled. ''Even in my slums, i've heard about the legendary Kimono Protectors of Ho-oH and Lugia. I never thought i'd get to see them in real however.''

Sneasel's claw unsheated themselves on instinct. ''Uxie also have taught me much about the Kimono Protectors of Jotho. I defeated the Ho-oH set earlier this year. Now I have a chance to defeat them again.'' He said with a malovelent glint in his eyes

Wartortle stared however. Those eeveelutions were absolutely...

''Gorgeous...'' He whispered, as in transfixed.

Alolan Ninetales spat on the ground. ''I can't believe you'd find these wrenches beautiful when I am around.'' She said as she turned her nose up.

Wartortle looked away sheepishly. ''Sorry Babe...'' He half-heartedly apologized.

A quick Water gun attack washed away the spit almost instantly, making the Kitsune Jump in fright. When she landed, she was met with the angry face of an Vaporeon standing right in her face, staring dead in her eyes.

''Do that again, and I will kill you. You reek of sex so badly that I wouldn't be surprised if Lady Lugia threw you out on sight. You think that you have the right to desecrate this place with your bodily fluids, you fiend?'' She asked with a mean snarl

Before Alolan Ninetales could place a word, Sneasel had placed a claw under the neck of the Kimono girl, feeling oddly compelled to Protect Ninetales, despite his utter disgust at himself.

''I Advise you to back up, if you don't want to see your pathetic llife ending on these very sacred ground you live in...'' He heard himself say in horror.

Alolan Ninetales purred and licked Sneasel's cheek shamelessly, pleased.

Wartortle had to shudder and look away.

The Kimono warrioress felt the full weight of Sneasel's power distinctly, like a Dark Aura threatening to take her over. She indeed backed up and gulped, having never felt such malice before.

The Kitsune chuckled as she gave a condescending smile to the belliquous Vaporeon. ''When you can have power like this at your beck and call, you can try to threaten me, sister!''

000

Wartortle was in the confessional, looking absolutely disgusted. ''I knew that I wasn't much for that Kitsune...but Goddamn, the shamelessness of that hot fox is impressive... It's kind hot...but I know it's not a Good look on me at all...Fuck!''

000

Sneasel looked absolutely Mortified. ''What in the world did she do to me that night... I ...I feel impulses to protect her now! WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME!'' He shouted with frustration as the camera frosted up.

000

Monferno strolled in the confessional and was startled to see it completely frozen. He Unthawed the martyrized confessional wondering who could have done something like this.

000

That is quite enough out of you all! Said the Matron, a very nice looking Espeon, who sported a lovely lila kimono which lovingly enchanced her grace and features. All the other Kimono girls also had matching kimonos and accessories that made their beauty stand out even more. Specifically designed by the feathers and Lugia and Ho-oH respectively. Those were ceremonial Kimonos passed down from generations to generations, which each Kimono warrioress passed down to a Pokemon of the same species that proved themselves worthy. Such was the tradition of the Kimon warrioress of the heradly of the sea.

The older Espeon stepped in front of her sister and bowed deeply in front of Mesprit.

''Esteemed Goddess harbringer of emotions. It is beyond our honor to welcome you in the abode of the lady of the sea.'' She said as all the komono girls started moving with synchronicity, their decoration making a pretty sound that echoed in the cave.

Mesprit smiled as she curtsewed back to the matron.

''The pleasure is ours, dearest protectors. '' She said as Koko joined her in her curtsey, trying his hardest not to stair at the renowened Kimono girls. Indeed they were as pretty as legends had them to be, and it was very distracting.

Bidoof opened his mouth to comment lechereously on the Kimono girls when Metang immediately put a claw in front of it.

''You shouldn't. They are actually far more powerful that what you have seen. My database suggests that they are given extreme power by Lugia in exchange of this lifelong bound servitude. They could end your life if you are not careful.'' He said, which made the normal type reconsider his words.

Carrying on, Mesprit continued. ''Is Lady Lugia here?'' She asked

A leafeon answered to that. ''Indeed, lady Mesprit. She is here.''

A Jolteon perked up next. ''Allow us to lead the way to her chambers.''

The group then proceeded toward the bottom of the cave, which only seemed to become more and more beautiful and breathtaking as they made their way further down.

As they arrived to the bottom of the cave, the contestant could not believe how beautiful the chamber was...and how vast it is.

It was as if the purest of sapphires naturally grew there. Water geysers of crystal pure water were creating a set of rainbows as the etheral blue hue given by the reflection of the sapphires caught in the water drops.

A set of 8 chambers, richly decorated, were visible at the leftmost side of the chamber, which was immense. It was in fact so immense that one could believe easily that lugia could have a very comfortable time flying around her chamber for a few hours without being tired of the scenery. There was tables and even scrolls around that area, showing that the kimono girls were studious and keeping records. The waterfall of crystal blue water at the center of the chamber seemed like it was the fountain of eternal youth. So blue and pure that Wartortle, a water type, felt oddly compelled to walk toward that water, absentmindedly. So Did Lapras, who as the transport Pokemon, was naturally drawn to source of water themselves.

Before they could get too close of the large reservoir though, they were stopped by the Matron's psychic powers.

''I understand the power of this attraction, esteemed contestants. However, this water is not yours to touch. I apologize, but you must refrain from approaching too close to it.'' She said with a soft, yet commanding voice.

''Sorry...'' Lapras said, embarrassed as she looked to the side.

''Yeah...I wasn't really thinking here...'' Added Wartortle who walked back to a oddly quiet Alolan Ninetales.

The Water type turned to the Fox. ''Hey here are you okay?'' he enquired.

Alolan Ninetales looked at him, but seemed to be looking right through him. The Kitsune had felt another wave of her sickness incoming and the energy around this place was making her sick. Very sick. She couldn't understand why. However, she had to keep up the apperances. She didn't want any pity from a boy she way using. So she faked.

''I'm alright. Just be good for me and you will be okay.'' She said with her usual domineering tone. Wartortle narrowed his eyes. This was hardly not the response he was expecting. Suddenly, he had a flash, where the beatiful coat of the Kitsune seemed like it was covered in red blood.

The Shellfish recoiled with a confused look on his face. What was that he was seeing. With one more blink, he saw that the fairy type's coat was as immaculate as it always had been... right?

Alolan Ninetales saw this and interiorly gritted her teeth. That recollection in his eyes was not Good. She had been so busy fucking Sneasel's brains out in the past few days to mold his subcounscious into the perfect ally that she had forgotten about Wartortle's botched hypnosis, which at any moment could break. As he turned away, her gaze hardened.

000

Alolan Ninetales maw showed a trickle of blood in the confessional. ''I'm sorry, boytoy. You've been one hell of a partner. But now you must leave. I cannot allow you to remember what you've seen and don't have the time to make you sink under my power anymore. Today is your last day in this game. A pity, i'll miss his prowess in bed...'' She said with a malovelent smile on her face before she started coughing blood in the confessional, the camera turning to static soon after...

000

Wartortle was holding his head in the confessional. ''Why do I keep seeing blood on her when she is so meticulous about her appeareance...? What is going on here?''

000

The whole group had arrived and the matron approached the reservoir. All of the Kimono girls took their place around a carefully designed area in front of the reservoir. She then turned to the group who had respectfully stayed back, including the hosts, and said, "As a request of our esteemed guest and as proof of respect for you reaching this far, we will treat you to the sacred summoning ritual of the protector of the sea. I must ask you to remain silent and reverent until the dance is over. Do not fret. The mystical power around this place shall not harm you if you bear no ill will to Lady Lugia." She reassured with a gentle smile, her purple eyes flashing in an instant, scanning everyone but the Legendaries in a flash. She visibly relaxed, seeing that nobody had any hidden agenda concerning their master, and then turned toward the waterfall. All the kimono evolutions bowed and a shamisen started playing, filling the air with its delicate notes.

On the Espeon's neck, a silver like wing started shining, slowly detaching itself from its wielder and floating in the air until it reached in front of the waterfall basin. A gentle yet powerful silver glow started to be emitted from it.

5 Kimono girls, the original 5, Flareon, Jolteon, Vaporeon, Umbreon and Espeon started dancing, their steps and kimonos creating wave like patterns, as Leafeon, Glaceon and Sylveon opened their maws in song, creating a beautiful etheral harmony of dance, song and music.

...

''Oh Silver wing that fell out of his host,

Be, the beacon that summon the hitermost,

Empress that guards the seas, creator of the storm,

We beseech your presence, May you grant your from...''

...

They repeated this chant afew times, with the air being more and more charged in a sort of power that each contestants felt deep within their bones. Normally calm reseovoir had now come to life, with the waves seemingly dancing alongside the movement of the kimono girls. Two silver bells that had been unnoticed by the contestants were now also glowing, reflecting the light of the silver wing and creating a pattern that looked like there were falling silver leafs around the area. It was a spectacle that one could not dream to see in a lifetime, and it was being performed just for them. Each and everyone, at this exact moment, understood the priviledge to be here, to be part of such a moment.

000

Roserade was reminsicing in the confessional. ''I wish...i so dearly wish that moment never ended. I have very rarely, if ever, seen such a beautiful expression of art and tradition in my life...'' She said with a soft smile on her face.

000

Fraxure shrugged in the confessional. ''It sorta reminds me of the dragon celebration we used to observe back in Opelucid nation. The Ritual of Truth had these beautiful fireworks whereas the Ritual of Ideals had those massive thunderstorms that were scary but so cool. I guess that every region has its own little version of that...'' She noted as she looked at her claws absentmindedly.

000

Croagunk was vibing in the confessional.. ''I'll say yo! This here music could go hard on a good rap track. I Dunno, it felt like that when I remember that chant...'' He said as the camera turned to static.

000

Monferno smiled with all of his teeth in the confessional. ''I've got to say! I've never expected to be privy to those kind of experiences when I signed up for this show. This was incredible. And to have been able to hold the paw of Gengar all this time through it was the happiest he had seen her...

000

Gengar was smiling in the confessional. ''This monkey is far too perfect...''

000

The ceremony died down and a melodic, rousing cry made itself heard. She turned toward the audience. ''Please rise. Lady Lugia has now arrived.'' She said as a gigantic splash of water was heard. When the raindrops receded, a majestic creature now stood in the middle of the fountain.

''It is good to see you again, Mesprit. I see that the time has not dulled the beauty and eternity of the summoning dance. It was a fine performance, Lady Saeko...'' She said tenderly to her lead Warrioress, who bowed back deeply in reverence.

''Lady Latias has graced us with her presence...'' Said Saeko, not daring to lift her eyes to gaze at the legendary protector of the seas.

Mesprit bowed back. ''It is indeed good to see you, Lady Lugia. I take it that you and your progeny are doing well?''

Lugia laughed heartily. ''Those rascals are giving me problems. Zapdos in Particular. Curbing his instincts to battle can be challenging. But enough. I suppose that you all came here to face my trial?'' She asked as she gained a mischievous smile.

The Contestant nodded.

Mesprit and Koko shared a look. Now was the time indeed.

''Indeed Lady Lugia. The Challenge is going to be simple, but effective, he said as with a flash, a set of cards appeared in front of the lady of the seas, which, with a mighty roar, made self-contained twisters appear around the cards. There were four sets of cards and the Kanji around them read, Recruit of the east, west, north, and south.''

"Your objective today will be to raise the rank of those hanafudas to the rank of SHogun. To gain cards, you'll have to find them or win them in the traditional games the Kimono girls and I will engage you with them. Do note, that the winners will be the ones to complete the suite. Only the one bringing me the card that will rank them up to Shogun will be the one declared a winner. They shall be given special advantages.'' Said Koko

Mesprit smiled, taking the baton. ''Allow me to use this opportunity to announce an exciting piece of news as well!'' She started, drawing the attention of the contestants.

''What could it be?'' Asked Bidoof, puzzled by this ''sudden reveal''

Fraxure rolled her eyes. ''Do we care? Let's do this challenge already...'' She whined as her tail broke the ground with a loud thud.

Roserade shushed them. ''Shhh! This could be very important...'' She said as she silenced the murmurs of other contestants.

Mesprit smiled appreciatively at Roserade. ''Indeed Rose, the special announcement is that we are introducing this beautiful thing. She said as she pulled a beautiful statue featuring herself and her siblings circling a vibrant red jewel. ''This, is the invincibility stature. While you have it, you cannot be eliminated. It's very simple. You get it you survive. You could even dodge an automatic elimination.

Metang and Bidoof looked at each other and smiled. Wordlessly, the supercomputer took a picture of the statue, securing the necessary blueprint if they needed to buy some time or maybe push someone to the brink with it. Essentially, the true existence of the invisibility statue meant that it was now possible for the two compare to remain alive indefinitely and they both knew that.

Monferno Whistled. ''Well this is what one calls a powerful announcement, don't you think claws?'' He asked as he did a backflip, excited as he was for the challenge and excitement.

Claw gave the Monkey a carnivorous smile. ''I've heard, my love. This little thing will not stay idle very long. It will be ours and stay ours!'' She said with a finality in her voice that sounded adorable for the monkey but made more than a few contestants shiver...

000

Croagunk looked nervously in the confessional. ''Am I the next victim? We really have to contend with a Gengar that is completely smitten with a Monkey?''

000

Sneasel looked pensively with a pained look on his face. ''My instincts to win makes me want to win that Statue and hold on to it...but these intrusive thoughts about protecting that slut...they...are...overpowering...ARRRRGGGHH!''

000

Alolan Ninetales purred as she came and kissed Sneasel passionately, making him slip back into his placid protector road, biting his neck while saying: ''You belong to me...mind and soul. So every action you take belongs to me...you sexy, wretched furret.'' She seductively said as the camera turned static.

000

Lugia roared in approval before continuing. The cards will be scattered across the four caves that make my lair. Success in finding them. May the Silver hanafuda challenge begin. She said before she enveloped every contestant in a vicious hurricane that blocked their vision. When it receded, they were there no more.

The large beast then lowered herself to the water as Mesprit came to land on her head. ''Well well Lugia, I've heard the news, who's that Pokemon who managed to woo you?'' She asked with a mischievous look on her face.

Lugia barely blushed. A Gyarados of your show. It was a rather pleasant encounter. It is a pity that I had to wipe his memory partially after that. Despite my appreciation and respect for him, I could not take a mate, so I sent him on his way with the blessing of silver. His battle prowess won't diminish with age and he will be living significantly longer now. A solid reward for a solid Pokemon. '' She explained with a smile as Mesprit nodded.

''Very astute of you indeed, Lugia. It is interesting. More and more Legendary and mythical Pokemon have been moving away from traditional seclusion to mingle a little more with the world. That includes us as well of course. I find it very interesting that it's even affecting Pokemon that have been living for eons, like you. '' She pointed out.

Lugia nodded with a caring and sage smile. ''Indeed, companion of emotions. But times are changing and just like the tides of the sea, we move along with it as well. And ...Oh?'' She stopped as she saw a smug Croagunk leaning on the wall, three cards of the south ranking the south hanafuda line to Chief petty officer.

''They call me the warrior of the south gate, Croagunk the poison, beware of me, I'm first-rate yo!'' He rapped as the whirlwind around the south hanafuda made way to let him stack the large hanafudas on top of each other.

Mesprit looked impressed. ''That fast, croagunk?'' She asked with an amused look on her face.

The frog returned that smile. ''As fast as you make Pokemon melt with that smile, sugar.'' He said suavely before hopping away into the caves, looking for more cards.

Tapu Koko whistled. ''The balls of steel on that frog. I gotta say that it commands respect.'' He commented with a cackle

Mesprit had blushed a little. She might not have been interested in him, but the ease at which he complimented her made her just feel like a pretty woman, which was a very refreshing feeling. ''I'm definitely going to miss the ease at which he talks to me when he's gone...'' She said wistfully.

Lugia nodded. ''You too feel that wear when every Pokemon you meet walks on eggshells around you, do you?'' She asked comprehensively.

Mesprit sighed with a tired smile and said, "" I completely understand why they would act in such a way in my presence. However, I simply would like that they act more natural around me. Because, many of them simply act and forget the fact that I can see through their fake acting and lies. You see, body language never lie."

Lugia nodded. ''Indeed Mesprit. I have to contend with that among the sea creatures that see me pass. But as Pokemon are more used to our presence and see our gentle natures, I am sure that they will in kind relax and be more inclined to look at us with less fear.

Mesprit nodded with an hopeful look on her face. ''A big hope indeed...'' She said as she relaxed atop Lugia's head.

000

Monferno and Gengar landed inside the northernmost cave and saw Raiko, a Jolteon, who grinned at their approach.

''Hey there, seems that the odd couple decided to come to me by fate! Ready to play my game?'' She asked as she made lighting flash all around her in a vibrant display.

Monferno grinned competitively. ''Well Claws, it seems that our first victim has decided to manifest herself. Let's hope that she's ready to make us some nice good cards!'' He said as his flame grew brighter.

Gengar smiled as well. ''Well, together we are unstoppable! Bring it on!'' She challenged the Jolteon which smiled.

''By Lugia's silver wings! I like your pep. Still, it is odd to see a Gengar and a Monferno together. However, I guess I've seen Weirder before... anyway My game is lighting Temari. See this goal-like cave? She said as she pointed to a cavelet-like entrance behind her.

Both Pokemon nodded. ''Indeed we do see it!'' Replied Monferno, who already had a good idea of what the challenge could be.

Raiko smiled. ''I am the guardian of that goal. Your goal is to do everything in your power, without crossing the line in front of you...'' She started to say as she used a vicious thunderbolt attack to mark a deep gouge in the ground before them, ''... to kick that Temari past me and my lightning-fast defenses into it. You only need to do it once. If you manage that, then i shall give you 3 Northern cards. If you fail more than three times, I will incur the wrath of lightning upon you and you will be incapacitated for a few minutes. Feeling ready to take that chance yet?'' She asked as she released an arc of black lightning around her.

Monferno shivered a little. The gouge she had made almost casually with her thunderbolt attack looked powerful and violent. Gengar however, in her Lopunny Morph, walked to her lover and looked at him straight in the eyes, plunging her red eyes into his. ''Don't worry, I shall make sure that she doesn't hurt you one bit. Let's blast that thunder bitch out of there alright!'' She said confidently.

Monferno could only appreciate how his girlfriend was willing to meet the challenge head-on despite him slightly hesitating. That hesitation gone, the Monkey's flames grew even stronger

''Alright claws! Let's roast that canine!'' He shouted as he kicked the Temari with all of his might.

''

000

Monferno was covered in bite marks and electricity but had a satisfied look on his face. ''Truly with claws, we are unstoppable!'' He said with a satisfied look on his face.

000

Gengar had a crazed look on her face. ''Going all out against that Jolteon felt so good. Subtly using Confuse Ray to utterly make her go insane was the cherry on top. That Jolteon was so lost... Absorbing her confusion and fear was so...soo...'' She reminisced before the camera turned static right as she was about to start moaning.

000

Jolteon was lying on the ground, her fur singed, her breath was shallow as she had taken a lot of hits before the Temari, powered up by a combo of fire blast and shadow ball, finally zipped past her to land in the Goal Area. Mortified, the Jolteon slowly rose to her feet, disoriented due the lingering effect of the Confuse Ray attack. She groaned, using a combination of wish and eating some stashed Sitrus Berries to recover.

''By my silver mistress...these two together are absolutely vicious...'' she said as she looked in the general direction where they had disappeared and smiled.

''I like their pep though. Definitely are the power couple of these games...'' She said appreciatively.

000

Lapras, Roserade and Hatterene had landed in the Easternmost cave. The crash had been slightly brutal, but thankfully nobody was hurt too badly.

''Are you all okay?'' Asked Roserade as she got up, helping the psychic type up as well and the two of them helped Lapras up and supported her long enough for her buoyancy to start kicking in, lightly levitating off the ground.

''Where are we even?'' Asked Hatterene.

Roserade looked around and made an educated guess. ''Well, judging by the fact that the cave looks a lot like the one we have seen before, this looks like we are in the same archipelago as the Lugia chamber we were a few minutes ago.'' She responded as they started walking down the corridor.

Lapras's ears twitched. ''I can hear running water all around us. That would mean that we are underwater. Amazingly, this cave do not crumble under the surely immense water pressure...'' She said, her voice full of wonder.

Hatterene smiled. ''Nature is beautiful like that. A lot of things that we never fathom that are happening all around us. I'd say that it's so lovingly quiet here. I'd almost ask Lugia to let me live here, but i wouldn't have much to show to my followers...'' She said with a sad sigh.

Roserade smiled. ''That is a rarity though. I don't know much about your species, but If I take a leaf of what I heard, your kind prefer quietness above all else. I am surprised that you'd continue to maintain a Poketube channel after evolving.'' She pointed out with a smile

The witch like Pokemon shrugged. ''Well, strong emotions and loud noises makes me uncomfortable, yes. But not to the point where i'd lose it. Beside, as a Hattrem, i've learned to be able to regulate the impact those have on me, and as an Hatterene and a future queen, I know that I have to be stronger emotionally to be able to attain that function. So It wouldn't do if all I could do would be fainting when I interact with these. Besides, I love my community. The little following i've managed to garner are dear to me. I wouldn't let go of them like that.'' She said with a smile

Lapras smiled. ''We really are similar, us three. We care for our own. I've got a fiancée and an adoptive son. Roserade got her family, and you've got your followers. We feel like the three female musketeers!'' She said with a wholesome smile, shared with all three of them.

They made their way down the cave, arriving at a large pool like room. At the center of the room, an isle with a huge stack of cards, however, all around that Isle were gigantic whirlpool whom looked so vicious that even Lapras shivered upon seeing them.

''This is insane! Those host surely wants our death. How are we supposed to get past those giants whirlpools?'' Asked Roserade, panicked at the view.

A soft, melodious voice replied to that question. A lovely blue Vaporeon, her blue kimono floating in the wind, replied to that inquiry, decorating the silence of the cave with her haughty, delicate laugh.

'' You'll have to figure it out, my lovelies. After all, the dragon roars 4 times. If you heart it roar a fifth time, it will be the last one you will ever hear.'' She said in a creepy voice before disappearing completely in the water.

''Is she insane, there's literally giants whirlpools around those waters. She's going to be torn apart!'' Shouted the witch pokemon in worry.

Roserade put a soothing bouquet paw on he shoulder though. ''Calm yourself, Hatterene. Vaporeons can essentially meld with water, essentially becoming one with it. She will be dealt no damage at all.'' She explained as a large dragon made of water erupted from one of the whirlpool and launched itself at them.

"Incoming!'' Shouted Lapras, who readied an Ice beam attack that froze the dragon solid.

Roserade looked appreciatively at the gentle transport pokemon. ''I owe you one. Let's use that dragon to approach the other whirlpools!'' She proposed.

The other two nodded and they started to run up the form of the water dragon.

000

Roserade was smiling in the confessional. ''How exhilarating!''

000

Hatterene had a shrew look on her. ''It's interesting to see brand new sides of the girls to show! I am glad I came to this Island

000

Fraxure landed with her whirlwind dissipating in a long and dark corridor. She wasn't afraid however. Moreso that she was full of resolve now. Growling a primal roar, she immediately ran toward the direction she was going. However, the obstacles did not stop presenting themselves as she made her way down.

First she used dragon rush to pass dangerous mudpits that seemed to just decide to open under her feets. With a cackle, her gaze unfocused and her energy grew, making her use her powerful tail to jump and drift past those.

On the other side of the corridor waited the Matron and her friend UMbreon.

''It seems that we have gotten a crazy one, Elder Sister.'' Said Umbreon with a shiver.

The Matron smiled. ''Indeed, however it shall not be said that we are easy. Behind us lies the entire stack for the west hanafudas. We must protect it with our lives.'' She said with a resolute look on her face.

The sister umbreon sighed. ''Why must you be so dramatic sister. Just put her to sleep and let us go back to dancing or something...'' Yawned the lovely yellow ringed feline as she stretched, not before a hot volley of flames grazed her cheek.

In front of them, Fraxure stood, her skin scratched by the traps but a big, crazed smile appeared on her face.

The matron tried to step forward in order to introduce her challenge, but in an instant, with all the boost under her belt, Fraxure had Blitzed her and Taken out Umbreon with a single Dual Chop, hitting the kimono girl so hard it shattered her head pieces, leaving a big crater at the point of impact.

''Wh...a...'' Muttered the Espeon in complete fear.

Fraxure smiled. ''Sorry, "Matron" but you are all female. Which means my Rivalry ability makes me your worst nightmare. You wanted to slow me down with those dumb traps and pitfalls. You should have know better than to try to stop the rampaging bullet of Opelucid.'' She said as she immediately clad herself in blue dragonic energy and rushed toward the Matron

The battle that followed was brief, but intense. However, an unfortunate miss was all it took for the psychic warrioress to be overtaken by what could only be described as pure destruction incarnate.

000

Fraxure looked at her pile of cards with glee in the confessional. ''Take that Riolu! Wish you could be as good as me, do you?'' she said with a deep cackle as the camera turned black.

000

Metang, falinks and Bidoof had landed in a rather open room instead of a tunnel. They looked around with confusion, not seeing much beyond sapphire grey caves and ponds of water around them.

''Owowow. Seriously, what's with the females in this stupid game! Every time its all flash or whirlwinds into a hard surface. I am getting quickly sick of it!'' He groaned as he rubbed his back in pain.

The falinks brass leader spat on the ground. ''Weak willed rat. If you spent more time training you'd be able to easily tank a fall such as this one.'' He said

Bidoof growled. ''And if you lived in the right century, you'd understand that Sparta fell so long ago that humans still existed!'' He retorted

Metang, who had been analysing the surroundings while the other two were bickering interjected at this very moment. ''There is a 100% chance that you both lose the challenge if you keep bickering uselessly like this. My sensor senses an immense heat source in rooms further down the open area we are currently into!'' He drawled as both Pokemon, who were on the verge of hitting each other, spat on the ground and separated.

''You're lucky my friend is there. I'd beat you to a bloody pulp pal!'' Said bidoof as he waddled toward Metang.

Falinks chuckled. ''It seems that your species's simple ability truly affect more than your stat changes if you think that you have a chance to beat me. In fact, I believe that I can do just as well without being here with you two losers, so allow me to ''beat it.'' As you like to say!'' He said as he activated no retreat and rushed toward the exit of the area, following the heat sources that metang talked about with surprising speed.

Bidoof chuckled as he spotted something on the opposite side of a pond to his left. ''Truly the blood...and the stupidity of a warrior species run in his veins, didn't even deigned checking the room for possible cards being present...'' He said as he went toward the pond, swam and retrieved something with his fangs , lodged in an outcropping of a few rocks.

''Analyze this for me buddy?'' Bidoof asked his partner in crime.

''Analysis in action...1...2...3... complete. It is a card that holds the rank of Ensign for the east. A pretty good card. I took the liberty to scan the area. There are 4 other cards here, all well hidden within this room. However, such cards are not hidden to my thermal vision. Being touched by Lugia, they emit less heat than the others. There was around a 43% chance that there was more than just this card here, which makes me wonder how the hell did Falinks decided to go straight to the heat source coming from that exit.

''Dunno'', shrugged bidoof. ''He's dumb anyway. I am just wondering if I should try to get some of these sapphire crystals. They look amazing and pure!'' He said with a greed filled look onto the deposit of precious gems all around them.

Metang shook his head. ''I highly don't suggest it. You have more than enough funds from your...activities... Trying to steal more from here could make the Wadatsumi angry at us. I do not fancy being drowned in the bottom of the sea, so I would say that we should collect the other cards and head toward the heat source.'' He noted as the Bidoof nodded, listening to reason.

000

Bidoof was in the confessional with a grin on his face. ''I have to say that working with Metang is quite the experience. He's reliable, he's smart and he has no real inhibitions. Simply put, he is not an idiot! God knows those are a rarity on this planet!'' He cackled.

000

Metang looked in the confessional before settling in, his usual rumbling sound showing that he was amused. ''I am indeed enjoying working with bidoof. He's interesting, cunning and he is not afraid of walking a very fine line between morality and immorality. In other words, by being grey, he augments his chances of winning by arounf 30% but also agments the chances of X factors quite considerably. I wonder how his story will end, if at all, and what X factor will be the cause of his fall or success. A very interesting lab rat to be given the chance to work with, if I dare say so myself. How amusing...'' He said as he rumbled again, making the camera go static.''

000

Falinks had beelined for the heat source, his instincts telling him that if he had to find the most cards and the most powerful one of his suite, he would have to go where the conditions were the steepest. As he entered a cave corridor, the surroundings became hotter and hotter, with visible steam now obscuring their views. However, even in these conditions, Falinks still trudged on. Thier tenacity was recompensed by having one of the brass members find a Ensign level card lodged in a steam vent, which almost burned them to the third degree as they had to swap between them to pull it out. Once they had it secured, they pushed on, signing local odes to boost their morales as they seemed to go deeper and deeper, until they reached a room so much filled with steam that they could barely see what was in front of them.

As the brass leader resolutely pushed forward, since in reality, there was no other way than forward, a loud, rough laugh was heard, echoing all around theme.

''Hahahaha! What courage, what abnegation to be found in you little guys. To think that you would the first Pokemon to make it to my training and lounging abode. Welcome to the steam hell. Here, no jothoan games to be found, i am afraid! I know Lady Lugia spoke of them, but to me, it just wouldn't fit...and my kind of game, is not for the weak or the non field or fairy egg group, so I won't be able to play...'' the voice purred before continuing. ''However, you do have an assignment to complete to get out of this place with all of your wits. Reach the end of this steam maze before you pass out from the heat or lack of oxygen...or my attacks. ANd you'll get the entire stack from Rear admiral to Shogun of the West! Are you up to the task, or are you going to run away with your tail between your legs?'' Asked the voice, which was no other than flareon, a gruff and powerful kimono girl whom enjoyed the traditional aspect a little less than she enjoyed strong challenges to keep her on her toes.

Leonidas and his falanxs snarled in defiance. ''You think that you can scare us into retreating, you wretched game master. But i'll have you know that my brass and I are the best our city state has to offer. There is no way you will ever be able to make us scare, less again retreat. Our phalanx don't retreat! They advance resolutely until the goal is achieved! You better be ready to give us those cards!'' said the brass leader before activating No retreat and running toward the maze until their little form dissapeared.

000

Wartortle, Sneasel and Alolan Ninetales landed in the westernmost cave. As soon as the whirlwind of silver wind dissipated, Sneasel used Quick Attack to dissapear from their presence. The Sharp claw Pokemon felt a definitive need to get away from the fox as fast as possible. It was so horribly difficult to stay focused when she was around him. Everytime she smiled, Sneasel could see the her powerful form taking him that night. It was terrifying. he couldn't understand how she had managed to turn the table so easily on him. How she was able to charm him to the point that doing those carnal things with her had seemed so right, so cathartic...so pleasurable...so...

''DAMNIT! GET OUT OF MY HEAD! I AM NOT LIKE YOU! I AM NOT LIKE THIS!'' He screamed so loudly the wall shook. He slashed his left arm hard enough to draw blood, but even the sight of his bleeding arm and the stinging pain did not completely take his mind of the call his body felt whenever he thought about the pink furred seductress.

With a fit of rage, he punched the wall of the cave so powerfully that he broke a section of sapphire. Hidden there was the hanafuda card of the first class petty officer of the north.

Even this finding barely made him smile. With a grim determination, he stashed away the card and kept going , with the cave growing colder and colder as he made his way further down, picking more cards that he found due to his heightened abilities to forage and scout.

000

Further up, Alolan Ninetales was kissing Wartortle, figuring out that she had been neglecting him a little. However, she could feel that Wartortle's heart was not fully in it. She knew all about his mannerism, in and outside of Bed. However, she didn't care, as she needed as much salacious activity right now, she could feel another fit coming.

Wartortle had enjoyed kissing Ninetales, as he always do. However, as much as he was pleasured, a nagging thought was surfacing on his mind. The sight of Alolan Ninetales's chest covered in blood. Every time his mind threatened to slip into this almost drugged state, induced by Alolan Ninetales's kissing and her pheromones, he saw that in his mind's eye, and it terrified him.

As they separated for air, Ninetales's saw Wartortle' expression. She knew it was bad news. ''What's wrong. I can feel that you are not in the mood fully...which hardly happens...'' She said, gently rolling her tail under Wartortle's chin.

Wartortle shuddered. He adored when she did that...But he couldn't allow himself to be distracted. ''Well babe. There is something that I have to tell you...'' he started to say before looking akwardly to the side.

Alolan Ninetales interiorly groaned. She liked her boytoys obedient and thoughtless for her. Having a boytoy whom looked like anything else than wanting to fuck her 24/7 was almost a rarity for him. However, in order to not arouse suspicions...

''I should hear him out. Then I can trick him into staring into my eyes again and wipe his mind. I'd rather not lose such a valuable ally and a good fuck now...'' She thought before wrapping her tails around the Tortoise and pulling against her.

''Well, do tell. What is on your mind?'' She said.

Wartortle sighed. He so wished she was genuine. The turtle ruffian was not dumb and being constantly gaslighted in his talks with Croagunk also had broken the fantasy he had in his head. He knew that the fox was using him. If he had been a blastoise, he might had genuinely attracted her for his strenght. But as he was now, he was just a boytoy. It didn't truly matter to him at the time. Who wouldn't want to be the exclusive mating partner of a world famous mannequin? But now, he was beginning to see something else in her. Not her manipulative nature, but some sort of a reason. She couldn't be like this just for fun. From what little he knew, the fire type ninetales were known for being mysterious beauties that could be very cruel to one messing with them and their tails. However the Snow Ninetales were normally hailed to be nice and caring to fellow Pokemon. It would be very unlikely that this one would be cruel for no reason. Still, a permission had been granted, and now that he could smell the Artic kitsune's fur from up close, it smelled like this. A hint of toundra, her natural sexual pheromone self...and...

...

Blood.

It was so easy to relax in the embrace of the fox, but Wartortle kept his mind focused. It was hard, but he managed to do it.

''Babe. Why does your fur smell like blood?" He asked softly.

Ninetale's eyes widened. She had acted foolishly by allowing Wartortle to be so close to her chest. It was where he had seen the blood seep from her mouth!

''You stupid fox...'' She thought as she put a fake smile on her face.

''What do you mean babe? There has never been blood on my face or on my fure.'' She tried to say soothingly, condescendingly.

Wartortle's eyes furrowed. Even in the deepest throe of their passion, Ninetales had almost never called her ''Babe''. She was trying to cover something up...and he was absolutely sure of it now.

''Cut the crap, Ninetales. I can feel your body trembling and your voice lack that superior tone. Something has been wrong with you more and more lately. You've been more frisky, more hungry for sex and you've been dissapearing for no reason as well. I've been your good toy for long enough where you at least deserve to give me an explanation.'' He said as he gently grabbed her maw to force her to look at him.

Alolan Ninetales gasped interiorly. Men taking charge always had been her weakness, no matter how much she ''trained'' her boytoys. But here, what was more infuriating is that Wartortle actually sounded genuinely concerned for her, which made her feel weird. He was a ruffian after all. A street turtle. Shouldn't he have been content to be fucking the hottest Pokemon on the Island and shut his mouth about anything else? Beside, she knew that she needed to act quickly before the next wave came. Wartortle had been right. Her body was trembling because the pain in her lungs had been growing more and more and she would need to either mate the brains out of Wartortle to calm it down or let it run its course and endure like she had been doing for so, so long before this moment.

''I have to wipe his mind quickly...or he'll find out. I don't know why, but him caring about me hurts almost as much as this stupid sickness...'' She thoughtbeore caressing his chin with a tail.

''Wartortle, please, listen to me. Please look at me. I am serious. I never had blood on my fur or in my maw...'' She said soothingly and pleadingly.

Wartortle turned to look at Alolan Ninetales. Her eyes were so beautiful. The deep purple was like a dark hole that sucked in all other thought. The clear reflection of her light pupil looking like a moon in a dark, purple, hazy sky.

Wartortle suddenly felt his mind slip, but as he did, the smell of blood grew even stronger and images of Ninetales's blood stained fur seemed to glitch in his vision as his mind was coaxed to stop by Ninetales's potent powers...

Sadly,

Wartortle's mind had a declic, remembering almost instinctively that those situation were similar enough.

''STOP IT!'' He shouted as he semi-counsciously released a Water Pulse attack that blasted Alolan Ninetales off his body, making her land on the other side of the corridor painfully on her side.

Wartortle was speechless. His mind had instantly cleared the moment his vision hadn't been emcompassed by Ninetales's hypnotic gaze. What had he done?

''Holy shit! Babe I'm so sorry...I didn't meant to do that! I don't know what came over me!'' He said as she rushed to her side.

What he saw however...

He was not ready.

Almost immediatly after Ninetales regained her wits , the pain became too much. In her lung, in her mind for failing to enchant a men for the first time in her adult life, in her entire world

''G...get...away from Me!'' She tried to command with a raspy voice that Wartortle did not recognize belonged to the Arrtic kitsune.

''Are you nuts...As if I'd let you alone the way you are now!'' Retorted Wartortle.

Ninetales Snarled, wishing sorely that she could find a way to knock him out at that very moment...or even better, to kill him. But she was out of time.

With a terrifying howl, Alolan Ninetales's attack started.

She started coughing blood. So much blood that that her entire fur got stained. It burned so much. She felt like even drawing breath was such a pain-filled experience that she wished to be delivered by the swift kiss of death. Everything hurt, everything was covered in a veil of red as blood even reached her tear conducts. She wailed, wailed like never before. Her cries of intense searing pain reverberating in the entire cave.

Wartortle was terrifyied. Alolan Ninetales was dying right in front of her! She was scratching the ground, convulsing uncontrollably as she coughed more and more blood, staining her beautiful rosy fur more and more. It was as if she was fighting a possession, but that possession was eating inside of her like an all you can eat buffet, destroying organs after organs as it teared through her body.

The screams...oh Arceus, the screams seemed so much louder than the heaviest of torture. Wartortle couldn't take it anymore. All of his tough guy pretense had shattered at this moment. He looked at Ninetales, who was still scraming, but this time looked into his eyes. What Wartortle saw in this eyes was not loathing, was not hatred or shame.

It was terror. Pure, unaldultered terror. This was the trigger that pushed him to act.

Placing his tail in front of Ninetales and Channeling the use of Life Dew into it, he turned to her.

''Bite on it! Bite on it and it'll save you babe!'' he said.

In a sheer instinctive desire to stay alive, Alolan Ninetales's body acted before she could think and latched on to the Tail of the Water type like her life depended on it, which ironically, was very much the case.

Life Regenerating water flew into Alolan Ninetales's muzzle, making its way though her throat and into her intestines. The soothing, healing aspect of the move started making her body glow blue. Finally, the pain receded, the coughing as well. She kept drinking the salvating water, not know ing what it was doing to Wartortle. Once she had her fill, Wartortle smiled.

''Feeling any better...'' as he took a knee in front of Alolan Ninetales.

The Latter just kissed him, deeply and genuinely. She didn't care about anything but the gratitude she had to be alive. Wartortle returned the kiss as much as he could, feeling his last drop of consciousness leave him.

''It won't change her...but at least, I can go out knowing that I did the right thing...'' He said as he fainted while kissing her.

When Alolan Ninetales realized that her boytoy was now unresponsive, she lay him down in the side of the cave.

''Idiot...you should have left me to die here. You might act tough, but you are no ruffian.'' She said before her face morphed in a cold like mask, as if emotions just melted from her face.

''Goodbye Wartorle. It is better this way. You'll never know that you were just my plaything. I am sick but you are blind. You should not be with me and as such you have outlived your usefulness. Thank you for Saving me.'' She thought as she caught up with Sneasel further down the cave.

Sneasel turned to her. ''What happened there?'' He asked.

Alolan Ninetales growled with a cold expression. ''Nothing important you must know. But, I am done with Wartortle now. Let's keep moving.'' She said gravely as they both made their way toward the heart of the cave.

000

The challenge had been going well, with the challengers covering a lot of ground inside the different caves. Flareon's steam maze seemed to be the one which caused the most trouble for the contestants, being the causes of many burns and lost souls whom screamed to get away from the labyrinth, to the delight of the gruff fire type.

''Weaklings!'' She chuckled as she sat in the middle of the cave, guarding the last two cards that were missing to complete the Northen stack.

Croagunk, whom had had to to fight the temari loving Jolteon, the drteaded steam chamber and resist to Sylveon's insane charm, finall jumped and dunked the Shogun element of the West with reckless abandon, croaking his victory proudly.

''That's how it's done! I am the champion!'' He croaked triumphally.

Tapu Koko grabbed a mic and shouted. ''Aaaand Croagunk is the first one to finish a category! The West has been conquered. Now, only the east, the north and the south are left for the taking! You guys better hurry up!'' He shouted in his speakerphone.

Mesprit looked at the electric type. ''Well you sounds eager and excited, Koko...'' the kami pointed out, amused.

Tapu Koko smiled, an electric arc creating itself around his form. ''Who woudn't be dearest? Its always exciting to be watching a race. They are working so hard too. The one going home tonight will at least be consoled for having done his best!'' He said excitedly as Lapras, Hatterene and Roserade came , their arms full of cards.

Mesprit was impressed. ''I did expect you three to work together. I am not surprised that you ended up with such a haul!'' She said happily

Roserade smiled. ''Well these girls certainly have what it takes to go far! They demonstrated more than a little wit. Leafeon's games especially, having us participate in a game of shiotori while her vines would tickle us.

Hatterene shivered. ''Don't remind me... I almost fainted due to laughter! It was unbearable. It reminded me of when my sisters at home would tease me with a broom and a soft feather when I wouldn't help them retrieve the honey pot.

Lapras smiled as she took the remaining cards, all from the eastern series and upgraded the rank up to Shogun, making a clear toned sound to echo all over the whirl Island.

000

Lapras smiled in the confessional. ''Triton, Honey!'' I made it through yet one more challenge! I am doing well and my friends are behind me!''

000

Monferno and Gengar were having the time of their lives, unconcerned by the fact that 2 out of four stacks were now completed. Monferno had wanted to challenge every single one of the Kimono Girls.

''You know that if we dont head quickly toward the main chamber we are going to lose, honey!'' Said Gengar as they moved out of the way of the steam traps.

Flareon was the last one Monferno needed to test himself against. It had been hard, but Lopunny? had helped him recover every time. It was like she had a secret power to help him replenish his energy when he was tired. He appreciated her a lot for this.

''We will be fine love. I will win again and then we will be able to make it on time. I am 1000% confident about this!'' Said Monferno as they made it in the big chamber of steam.

Monferno's senses immediately picked on the breathing of the fire type and a wild grin took his features over.

''I can hear your breathing, Monkey and Ghost. Don't underestimate a Kimono Warrioress. I can tell that you want to fight! You think that you've got what it takes to challenge me in a direct fight for the rest of the cards? Those whom came before you fought valiently, but couldn't retrieve the shogun card! I won't let it go so easily. Get ready!'' Said the gruff female before she leaped from her position toward the Monkey.

''Claws, jump away to the right Now!'' Said monferno, who had heard the flaming cloaked cat burst toward them with impressive speed.

Lopunny? Did not hesitate. The second after her mighty leap, a blazing fireball crashed right where she had been.

''Aww! No spoilers!'' She said as she leaped toward the monkey.

Lopunny?, who tracked the Flareon due to her strong competitive emotion, saw the maneuver and snarled.

''Not on my watch, sister!'' She said as she jumped toward her and connected a strong Hi Jump Kick that launched her toward the opposite wall with enough force to embed her into the wall.

''Gaah!'' She shouted in pain.

IMmediately afterward, the monkey's fist glew blue and immediately dunked the poor Flareon back down on the head, slamming her to the ground.

''Gotta keep your guard up, sister!'' He shouted happily as he went for the finishing blow.

The Flareon chuckled. ''You are lucky that I see that you are taken already. I like spunky kids like you! I'd devour you on the spot if it wasn't the case!'' She said with a hint of seduction before clashing with the Monkey in midair, the impact of their collision causing some of the steam to disperse.

Lopunny snarled as she leapt toward the collision. ''Sorry sister! He's mine, all mine!'' She said as she launched a vicious close combat that the Flareon barely could avoid.

The wraith then looked at Monferno and the latter nodded, running toward the center of the maze, which had cleared significantly.

Now that the monkey was gone, the Ghost type looked at Flareon with a carnivorous smile. ''Trying to flirt with My Boyfriend I see... How about I make sure you never have such a foolish thought ever again...'' She said with a disembodied voice before attacking the Flareon with a viciousness that was unheard off. Sooon after, the bunny ghost was running toward the center of the whirl Island, having heard that Ninetales and Sneasel had managed to finish their own stack.

If they didn't arrive before Wartortle, Bidoof, Metang or Falinks, they would be in trouble.

''Let's hurry up!'' Said Lopunny? As she grabbed Monferno by the waist and shifted to her gengar form, her levitation making her much faster than Monferno's running.

000

Lopunny? was licking her claws clean of blood in the confessional. ''That bitch in heat learned her lesson, I am sure. The gashes on her body should remind her for a long time not to mess with the possessions of a ghost type.

000

At long last, the couple made it to the main chamber, where, with a combo of Gengar launching Monferno in the air, the monkey backflipped his way to the last swirling hurricane and placed his shogun card on top of the stack.

''And with this! The challenge is over! Monferno has converted the last stack to a Shogun at long last!'' Shouted Tapu Koko as he twirled in the air, a large crack of electricity illuminating the entire platform.

Mesprit's eyes shined, and Metang, Bidoof, an uncounscious Falinks and an Unconscious Wartortle appeared in front of everyone.

The Kimono girls also were summoned by Lugia this time, with everyone appearing...but Flareon whom looked in terrible shape. Large gashes had opened on her belly and her normally cream tail and body tuff were covered in spot of blood.

''By the gods! What happened to you?'' Asked Lugia, panicked to see her kimono girl in such a bad state.

The poor flareon could barely reply, her form weakened by the blood loss and the pain.

''L...lug..Lad..y...'' She tried to talk.

''Do not talk, Flare. We will take care of you...do not worry. Leaf, Siren. Take her to our healing chamber. We will treat her quickly.'' She said.

''Yes Matron...'' They said before helping their fellow Kimono girl out of the chamber, under the disturbed eyes of the contestants...well, everyone but one, who had to hide a deranged grin on her face.

Mesprit coughed. ''Well, hopefully, she can recover from those injuries...Well, as the first one to complete the challenge, Croagunk, you will be the holder of the immunity statue for now. You may keep it for yourself or throw it in the Yatch. I expect it back before the end of the next challenge however...If you can hold on to it!'' She said as she gave the statue to the frog.

''I'd rather have your number instead, but i'll take that!'' Said croagunk suavely before going back, making some chuckle at Mesprit's flustered face and others wonder when did the rapper frog grow such pairs of balls to say that with such casualness.

Tapu Koko sweatdropped. ''I've got a feeling that a certain bunny would lose his mind if he saw that...'' He thought as he took the stage.

''Well done, all of you whom managed to get to the shogun ranks. I had the pleasure to wander around and see your challenges. You are all displaying a lot of promise...one way or another.'' He complimented before looking over at Falinks and Wartortle.

''However, these two are the only Pokemon that fainted during the challenge, which would normally make them the bottom two. But let's see whom will be the lucky one today. Lugia!'' he asked

The Guardian of the Sea immediately let out a roar and two hurricanes swirled around them.

Lugia then took the baton. ''Normally, Celebi would have been there to do the redemption challenge, but something came up. He isn't avaiable. So my redemption ''challenge'' is simple. The first one to conquer my hurricane shall remain in the game.'' It is simple and to the point. Shall be rewarded the one whom has the strongest guts.'' She roared as the Hurricane closed in on them.

Alolan Ninetales watched the one where Wartortle was trapped in with very mixed feeligns. She wanted to kill her feelings and be able to watch him simply be eliminated...but he had also saved her life earlier.

"Just allow me to go back to the bitch I am. Don't wake up...just leave...and forget about me...'' She interiorly implored

''Cmon Falinks! You were on my team! A little hurricane is nothing for you.'' Cheered Monferno

''Indeed Falinks! The end has not come for you! Rise and Shine!'' Said Roserade, enthusiastic at the idea of Falinks saving himself from elimination.

Croagunk felt bad, as he heard no cheer for Wartortle. ''Cmon's turtle. Your story cannot end here dude! You are the king of this castle and bowing out now would be so rude, fool, you fool!'' Rapped Croagunk to a beat only he could hear.

Howeve it seemed futile as the Soldier and his brass, more results-oriented and resilient, started stirring up

Leonidas had another stir, with the brass leader slowly sitting up in the middle of the hurricane. As the time went on, more and more brass were now coming back to their senses, but Wartortle still hadn't moved one single step. Mesprit and Tapu Koko looked at each other. They didn't think that it was necessary. Wartortle seemed to be completely knocked out, completely unresponsive.

''That's enough...'' Said Mesprit, as she walked in the middle of the hurricane containing Wartortle and out, with the water type in her arms.

Lugia nodded and released the tornado around falinks, who looked around as the last brass member had just woken up. They were on the verge of preparing no retreat in order to burst out of the windy prison.

Tapu Koko sighed. He had finished by enjoying Wartortle around, even if they didn't interact much. ''Wartortle...it's time to go.'' He said as he let the verdict happen.

Mesprit smiled sadly. ''I'll bring him to his room. When he comes to, we will proceed to his ceremony and proper elimination. I don't feel right sending him to hell while he was completely uncounscious." She said as she teleported him to his room with his belongings.

000

As the contestants left the whirl Island, Lugia called Mesprit.

''Mesprit, I would like to talk to you before you go.'' She said.

Intigued, the embodiment of emotions floated toward her. ''Yes, o guardian of the Seas? How can I be of service?'' She asked politely.

Lugia smiled. ''I just wanted to thank you for the opportunity of holding a challenge here in my abode. It was very amusing and interesting to watch. We seldomly have visitors due to my status and the reclusion of my abode. Your visit and those of those challengers of yours gave this place an animation we hadn't had in years...'' Commented the kami of the sea with a gentle smile.

Mesprit gave Lugia her best smile. ''It is nothing Lugia. It is me whom should thank you for allowing us to use your abode as a challenge location. I am beyond grateful for your hospitality!'' She said as she extended her arms in a hug of the large Guardian's body.

Lugia smiled fondly before screeching. Immediately, a Huntail and a Gorebyss appeared in her pond. With a simple nod, she imparted a command to the two water types, whom plunged immediately, eager to execute the orders of their queen.

Mesprit was intrigued by this. ''What are they doing? '' She asked curiously.

Lugia simply smiled. ''Patience, my dear friend. You shall see soon enough.'' she pacified the being of emotion who was now even more intrigued, but decided to heed the words of the wadatsumi

Not too far from there, well hidden behind an outcropping of sapphire rocks, was Bidoof with his photo in hand. He had been taking pictures of Lugia and Mesprit ever since they were allowed to go back to their cabin.

''Who knows just how much people would be willing to give me or an exclusive picture of the embodiment of emotion in all of her beauty and her Lugia interlocutor, which was a Pokemon so rare that in some parts of the known world, the pokemon's existance was thought of as a legend. But there she was, in bone and flesh, looking actually pretty and majestic. Bidoof knew that he couldn't let such an occasion pass. His greed would not allow it.

As he mused the profit that he could make, a splash was heard. The two Pokemon were back and one of them, the Huntail, had a beautiful sapphire pearl in his mouth, that he put in the surface of the water before Gorebyss used her latent psychic powers to levitate the jewel toward Lugia in a reverent manner.

Lugia smiled warmly at them. ''Thank you, Venus, Thethis! You may return now.'' She said as the two Pokemon disappeared under the waves of the pond.

Mesprit approached the Wadatsumi with her eyes full of wonder. ''Is that...?'' She started, fascinated by the purity of the jewel and the lovely bluish glow it gave.

Lugia nodded. ''Indeed, embodiment of emotion. It is a sapphire pearl. The purest in my collection. I wanted to bestow it to you as a token of my appreciation for you and your show. I hope that you'll accept it...'' She said with a bright smile

Mesprit almost teared up. Sapphire pearls were among the rarest things in the world, yet alone one of this beauty and purity. It might very well have been something essentially pricepless.

''I...I..'' she started saying before Lugia pushed the jewel to her chest with her psychic power. ''I don't care if you say that you don't deserve it. You do, so we ask that you accept it!'' She said with a gentle voice.

Mesprit nodded and took the perle and put it in to her pack before leaving for the Yatch. She still had an elimination to conduct and instruction to give. However, a pair of greedy eyes had already spotted the beautiful Jewel. There was only one thing on his mind at this moment.

000

Lugia was in the cave, back in the healing chamber, next to Flareon. The gashes on her stomach and tail were severe and her skin had multiple cuts on it all over her body.

The other kimono girls were all assembled around Flare, who was recovering thanks to Lugia's healing water and Vaporeon's life dew. But one look at her face showed in just how much pain she was.

''Who in the world did this to you...Flare...'' Asked Matron Espeon in a kind but worried way.

Flareon's body shuddered, her eyes filling with tears of pure terror. She couldn't even reply.

The Umbreon gently caressed her kin's forehead. ''Calm yourself Flare, it's okay. You're safe now...'' She said soothingly

During that time, The Matron used her powers to discreetly read the Flareon's mind and when she saw what had transpired, she shuddered. A pokemon of this malice should not be allowed to roam free.

''Mistress Lugia!'' She said but the pissed off look on Lugia's face said everything for her. She knew. The Wadatsumi immediately left the chamber and once she reached her throne room, screeched with anger.

''You won't get away with this...'' She sworn with a bad scowl on her face

"

000

Bidoof was looking straight in the confessional. ''I don't care what I have to do... This jewel is lost on the stupid host. I will have it.

000

The rodent had managed to sneak in the room of the host with very little difficulty. he quickly saw the pearl he sought, having been put a top of a nightstand.

However, when he was able to grab the jewel and go, not even thinking about how he would replace the item, it slipped out of his tiny paws and shattered on the ground with a loud noise.

Bidoof eyes's widened. ''Fuck! The jewel...it's a big shame. How come something that inestimable was not properly protected...? Anyway, I've got to get away from here before I get caught by the crazy host.'' He thought as he turned to leave. However, he stopped immediately.

In front of him, in all her wrathful glory and furious gaze, was Mesprit, with a cocktail in hand, who was realizing that she had just lost something that could not be replaced...

Very quickly, the atmosphere around the room started changing. Mesprit's hand holding the cocktail fell to the ground. All around the yacht, winguls, wattels and other birds started fleeing all around the perimeter. The atmosphere seemed to deem and to grow several degrees colder. Mesprit's gaze grew frigid. Bidoof could not help but stare. He wanted to reply something suave, something insulting, something at all..but he couldn't. He was tetanized. He could feel how angry Mesprit was. He could feel like a cold, unforgiving chill washing over his body. Mesprit's eyes started shining, but they were still so cold, so angry. The beaver had the distinct feeling that he was in mortal danger. But the fear he felt paralyzed him...stopping him from even kneeling in front of the beautiful, furious kami to beg for his pathetic life in forgiveness.

On the top of the yatch, Hatterene, who was fiddling with her phone almost let it go in shock. A foul, searing cold emotion wafted through the area, if she didn't know better, she would have said that a thick layer of ice was forming a top of the yacht. The air was so cold, her teeth started chattering.

''W...what's...going on?'' She asked as the intense anger she was sensing was hurting her. She could barely move anymore...

Roserade looked at her friend in concern. ''Are you okay Hatterene?'' She asked, worried to she her friend as she saw her flinching in pain.

''N..no...I feel...i feel like someone is painting me in Ice and slowly peeling of my frozen skin...'' She said through gritted teeth.

Lapras used life dew on the Hatterene, which calmed the pain somewhat. ''Take deep breaths Hatterene, that's it...just like that...'' She said soothingly as her friend was trying to get ahold of herself.

''What could be going on to make Hatterene react like that...?'' thought the transport Pokemon.

Mesprit was furious. It had been a long time since she had felt so rightfully angry. This beaver had been such a pain. Yes, she had brought him, knowing how his cynism would get on Koko's nerves and force him to learn to control his volatility...and that plan had succeeded way beyond her wildest dreams. However...now, she was regretting it. Her initial assessment of the beaver had been dead wrong. It turned that deep down, he was a vile, macho, misogynistic, and greedy garbage of a Pokemon. As long as he was satisfied, he would stop at nothing to achieve his goal, even if it meant angering the God themselves. But now, it was her abode, her peaceful place on the ship, her quarters that he had defiled with his filthy paws. Without a doubt, he had tried to steal the precious jewel her friends had given her. Now it was on the floor, in tiny tiny pieces. A jewel so beautiful, so pure. It had been such a lovely gift that Lugia did not need to bestow upon her. Yet, this detritus had dared to seek and not only that, had led it to destruction. The kami of emotions had no Idea that her sadness at seeing her gift shattered on the floor...or the wrathful anger that she was feeling was making cracks appear in space time. She wanted to pulverize the beaver, she wanted to blow his brains out, then reconstitute him, then destroy him, toy with him until he was a babbling meat sack begging for his demise. She wanted to plunge him into eternal darkness... She wanted to...

''MESPRIT!'' A voice shouted in the hallway leading to her quarters, delivering her from the spiral of darkness that she had been thrown into. As soon as she turned, Bidoof's survival instinct finally activated, no longer paralyzed by those haunting golden eyes. With a quick attack, Bidoof disappeared from her room and made it to his room, where Metang was waiting for him. Bidoof arrived on his bed, hid under it and only then, allowed himself to breath again. However, he was shaking like a leaf inside a deadly hurricane

''What on Arceus green earth have you done to be so afraid...?'' Said Metang.

Bidoof, still seeing the glow of Mesprit's golden eyes in his mind's eye. Barely responded. '' Mate...I..I..just survived death...'' He said as a quick scan of his fur made him realize that the had soiled his fur.

000

Bidoof was staring wide eyes in the confessional. ''What was that? I thought my last hour had come...''

000

Mesprit was panting in her room, trying to calm down. What had she been thinking! She almost warped time and space due to her anger.

When Tapu Koko came, calling out to her again, she put on her best happy mask and asked Koko what it was.

The lighting type said that the time for elimination was upon them.

''Well then Koko! Let us go preside the ceremony then. She said as she grabbed his hands and ran toward the front deck.

''Slow down Boss, I'm still there!'' Said a chuckling Tapu Koko , amused by Mesprit.

As she was leading Koko to the main desk, Mesprit was desperately trying to calm herself. She had hardly ever felt so angry. She could feel the fabric of the dimension distorting due to her mystical power and anger.

''I've got to be careful...I could have leveled this entire ship if Koko didn't distract me...'' She thought as she made it to the front deck, Koko in tow.

The Lighting type then pulled out his Megaphone.

''ALL CONSTESTANTS ON DECK, IT IS NOW TIME FOR THE ELIMINATION CEREMONY!'' He bellowed atop of his lungs

000

In his cabin, Wartortle stirred up and groggily sat down on his bed. His energy was very low. He remembered in a flash what had happened and his eyes widened.

''SHIT! I've been sleeping for far too long! How's she!?'' He shouted as he tried to get out of bed. However, he barely had enough strength in his legs and stumbled forward.

''Whoa dude. You should stay in bed yo! You clearly don't have the strength to be walking around like that, you fickle like a ficello!'' Said a drawling voice that the shellfish Pokemon recognized immediately.

''Croagunk? What are you doing here? Where's Alolan Ninetales?'' He asked.

The frog sighed. ''The slut is fucking Sneasel's brains out again. They should come up soon because the lighting totem has called all of us in the front deck.'' He said before looking akwardly to the ground, hesitant to continue.

Wartortle found this weird, Croagunk was rarely, if ever, someone hesitant to speak. He would either speak or not speak at all. As such, he pushed on.

''What's up? This fidgeting is quite unlike you. Speak up frog!'' He said with a smile.

Croagunk sighed...''Well, my dude. You're the one going now. You slept through the redemption challenge and couldn't rise up...at all.''

Wartortle sighed, not looking too surprised about that. ''Yeah. I figured that is what would happen when I decided to share my life force with her.''

Croagunk's eyes widened. ''Hold up, you did what?" Asked the muay thai frog in shock.

Wartortle shrugged. He didn't see any reason to keep that secret anymore. ''Alolan Ninetales is almost Terminally sick with some sort of Lung decease. I witnessed one of those attacks and the screams she emitted that time will haunt my nightmares for a long time to come. To save her life I had her munch on my tail while I was using life dew. You know, Wartortle's tail are a sign of longevity. I figured that I could help her by feeding into that and giving her life dew. I spent all the power point of that move, and it knocked me out.'' He said with a smile

Croagunk shook his head. ''I can see that...but my question is why? Why would you go that far for her? I know she's a pretty good fuck, but even you can't have been fooled by how she act.'' he said

Wartortle smiled, looking at the ceiling of his room. ''Honestly, at the beginning, I was just lucky to have the hottest girl on the Island on my lap. Later, I didn't really care. She fucked so good and was so pretty that I simply didn't care...until I saw blood on her fur that one time. I am now almost certain that she messed with my mind so I wouldn't remember, and it almost work well too. But with this episode I know my feelings weren't wrong. Honestly, I wanted to use her just as much as she used me, but I grew kind of attached, so I just allowed her to push me around, in exchange of helping her cope with her illness with good coitus. I know she is using me. I am not sure I left any impact, but at least my consciousness can be at peace, knowing that I have done what I should. Maybe the world will remember me as a pathetic loser whom was just fucked out of his mind until he was cast away, but I don't care. I've learned a lot about myself and others. So it's alright. Better she get that wish than me pal.'' He said as he finally got out of bed and got his backpack , his kame necklace and his glasses and walked out of his room, Croagunk in tow.

''I've got to admit your courage in face of this. I'm going to miss having you around.'' Said the frog.

Wartortle nodded. ''Same here. It was a riot. But still, keep an eye on her''

Croagunk rolled his eyes. ''Must be Stockholm Syndrome...'' he chuckled amusedly

''Hey!''

000

Wartortle shuffled in the confessional. ''Well, this is where I Stop. This was fun. I wasn't much more than a sexy fox's glorified dildo. But I still learned a lot. I hope that She wins doe. Use that wish to get rid of that Illness and go conquer those heights she keeps babbling about. I am just happy to have had the chance to meet her and had those experiences with her. I know that in the deepest part of that womon is a good person. But who knows. Anyway, my role is done.'' He said with a calm, solemn and resigned look on his face.

000

Mesprit and Tapu Koko watched as Wartortle walked in silence toward the tip of the front deck. The other contestants were there as well, watching on.

When Wartortle reached the tip, he turned and watched the other contestants.

Ninetales, Croagunk , Sneasel, Metang, Bidoof, Roserade, Hatterene, Lapras, Falinks, Gabite, Gengar, Monferno.

All of them would have another shot at accomplishing their dreams via the ultimate prize. For him , the road ended here. But he was serene. At peace with himself, somehow.

As if saving her life had fulfilled some sort of long hidden objective.

The Dimensional hole opened at the front of the boat.

''Any last words or actions, Wartortle? Asked Mesprit kindly.

Wartortle smiled before nodding. He then put on his glasses and walked straight toward Alolan Ninetales, Grabbed her maw and kissed her deeply without a word, shocking everyone present.

Alolan Ninetales moaned loudly, her body shaking by how hot that sudden kiss was. Left panting and raging with desire, she glared at Wartortle who smiled and whispered something into her ear. He then pulled out the tail he had been given by her in a moment of weakness and wrapped it around his neck before starting to Glow bigger.

Growing, expanding before in front of her was now a strong, powerful and stern-looking Blastoise. Everyone gasped at this. Still without a word, upon seeing a glint in Ninetales eye, smiled before going back in front of the Yacht, nodding to Mesprit and Tapu Koko with respect and letting himself fall into the hole, in which he disappeared without a trace as the hole closed down.

Alolan Ninetales had an unreadable expression on her face... then with a savage howl, Released a powerful Moonblast into the air and left for her room in a huff.

Tapu Koko whistled. ''That was badass...'' He said in admiration

Croagunk chuckled. ''He had to have the last laugh. Attaboy...'"

Sneasel shuddered. If what he had heard of her, he would soon be plunged in a molten pool of pleasure as the fox would surely mate with him until his hips broke in order to forget her frustration.

Mesprit coughed to bring the focus of the contestant toward her. ''Alright, the elimination is over. Go back to your rooms. You will need that rest for the next challenge, trust me.''

Most contestants nodded and left the Embodiment of emotions alone.

As she was about to leave for her own chambers, she heard a voice said. ''Well that was an unexpected turn of event. An evolution due to a feeling of accomplishment? You hardly see things like that happening in our world. Definitely, your show cause strange phenomenon's to occur. That's honestly what I like to see in shows like these... Mesprit..''

Mesprit turned and with joy, saw that Uxie was floating at top the Yatch, a nice, stylized box next to him.

''UXIE-NII-SAMA!'' Said the embodiement of emotion, almost tackling his brother to the ground in happiness.

Uxie groaned a little, Mesprit might not be all that big, but she was still deceptively strong. ''Mesprit, I told you many times not to be so demonstrative in public, we have a certain image to convey!'' He said with a sigh.

Mesprit rolled her eyes playfully. ''Screw the appeareances. I am just happy to see you again, brother.'' She said before her eyes laid on the small box next to him.

''That's a pretty box you got there. What's in there?'' She asked curiously.

Uxie shrugged and showed the smallest of smiles. ''Oh this? Well, I heard that your show has recently been hailed as the most popular show in all of the regions lately. I was happy that we now all have successful careers in the world. Me and my company, Azelf and his dojo and you with this show. It showed that it was a good thing that we decided to get more involved in the world. As such, I decided to get you a gift that is sure to help you in your everyday life...and will make my life easier...'' He said, with the last part low enough that the cute psychic type wouldn't pick it up.

''Huh? What was that last part?'' Said Mesprit with an adorable smile on her face.

Uxie sighed. Mesprit really could abuse her good looks sometimes. Good thing he was her brother and therefore unnaffected by them. ''Nothing you should concern yourself with. Please, open the box.'' He invited the embodiment of emotion, whose attention immediately snapped back to the box.

It was a beautiful black, with golden and silver flowers all over it. The box itself was an art, and Mesprit interiorly vowed to keep it to put it in her room.

Inside her mind, she was a bit surprised though. Uxie was not one to make gifts often, and although she found it absolutely sweet, she couldn't help but wonder why would Uxie grant her a gift now. He did say that it was to celebrate her show's blowing up, and it kind of made sense, since she was the last one to be successful in a secular endeavor. That was a sweet attention that didn't go unnoticed by the embodiment of emotion.

'' You are so sweet Uxie, thank you so much!'' She said as she gratified Uxie with a kiss on the cheek, making the later blush in embarrasment.

The psychic type opened the box and to her surprise, the content was quite a surprise.

Indeed, inside the box was as a gorgeous black Rotom phone.

Mesprit smiled as she picked the black rotom phone. It was lovely. The coat was even covered in fine golden lines, which made it for a very stylish coat. The symbol of arceus in gold lining completed the design.

''This is the latest Model, powered up version of the Rotom phone. The G8. IT's about to hit the shelves but I managed to pull some strings to get you one early. With how I believe you'll mkae daily use of it, it would be free advertizement for the phone and thus boosting its sale. It's a win-win situation.'' Said Uxie with a smile

Mesprit nodded. I agree. Well, let's boot it up.

She then booted the phone up. A Monotone voice started popping up.

Recognizing the intended recipient. E.M.U.R.I.T.T.O.

Model recognized.

Genetic recognition, Species: Mesprit. Completed.

Booting up of normal function. 5...15...25...50...75...85..90...95...99...100%

Awakening of Resident Augmented Rotom... 4% 16% 25% 36% 49% ...64%...81%...100%

The Phone suddenly started levitating on its one, zipping around left and right before settling in front of Mesprit. The Rotom Phone then glew Golden and seemed to scan Mesprit with a Golden light, which amused the psychic type.

A feminine voice then popped up. ''Mesprit, also known as Emuritto, the Emotion Pokemon. "Known as the Being of Emotion. In legend, this Pokémon was feared, as any who showed disrespect would have their emotions thrown into disarray."

Mesprit marveled at this. ''A dex funtion? I thought that this was a lost technology after the exile of Humans. I cannot believe that you would give something like that to me...'' She said, now understanding that this gift had far more value than she had initially anticipated.

Uxie smiled. ''Indeed. Anything for you my sister,'' he said as he gave her a big hug before heading away. ''I must now head out. Take good care of the phone and of yourself, and congratulations once more for your show.'' Said the embodiment of knowledge before floating away, leaving Mesprit alone with the phone, whom was still floating in front of her.

Mesprit smiled at that. That was one interesting and unexpected turn of event. She almost forgot how angry she had been about the loss of her pearl gift to Bidoof.

''Let's see what you can do. Can you tell me what is the best course to go to Hoenn from here?'' She asked the phone.

After about 15 seconds, the phone replied back. ''The best course to go to hoenn is to Ignore the tourist case of Too much water and go through the Jotho-Sihnooh see and head south to reach that burning hell of Ho-enn.'' The definitive female voie o the rotom said in a deadpan voice.

Mesprit blinked in shock. That...was certainly not what she had expected her phone to say, even if the information it gave was correct.

As she was pondering, A Loud screech was heard. Almost immediately, a large dinosaur roosted as ''Gently as possible'' On the front deck.

Indeed, Lugia had roosted, holding a beautiful marine box, which she gave to Mesprit.

''My fellow sea creatures told me that they saw a piece of the jewel of the sea fall in the ocean earlier and that the sky seemed to crack. I am a psychic type, so I was able to sense the source of your anger. I had my servants look for an even lovelier pearl, with all the colors of the Iris, and made a box so it wouldn't break as you bring it to your room. So here...'' She said as she gave the box containing the jewel to Mesprit.

''Thank you kindly, Lugia. I was indeed very upset and the culprit shall be heavily punished someday.. '' She vowed as she took the gift with reverence.

''I also came to warn you about something.'' She said as her expression turned angry quickly.

''What is it?'' She asked, understanding by the tone shift that the next topic was very serious.

''Lugia nodded. During the latest challenge, one of my kimono girls got badly injured by what looks to be a shadow claw attack. I know that you have a very powerful Gengar among your merge competitior. Honestly, if it wasn't for you, I would sink that danger to Pokemonkind myself. But I don't want to interfere in your game. However, others like us might not share that sentiment. If you don't want to see a contestant be brutally murdered, I advise you to find a way to curb that Pokemon's violence.''

She said as she took off and with one last salute to Mesprit, plunged back into the ocean until nothing was left to even suggest that a Lugia had come here.

Mesprit looked at the sky once more before flopping onto her back. She was so tired all of a sudden.

''Man, this can be so exhausting, managing a show...managing friends, managing my own emotions...'' She said as the Rotom phone hovered above her.

'' Anyway... Shutting down. I'm exhausted'' The motonone feminine voice replied as she closed her eyes and stopped levitating, slowly descending to the ground.

Mesprit watched the phone with a sweatdrop. ''Not that much of an hard-working Rotom, is she? Maybe that's why this sly brother of mine gave it to me..'' She pondered as she picked her phone up, looking a tad curiously at the accessory.

End of the chapter.

SteveZ12: Hope you guys enjoyed the chapter. It's already been 15 chapter, wow. Time sure flies when one is having fun.

Shoutout to my partner in this adventure, Fantasy Chespin. Hopefully we continue this series for your reading pleasure.

See you onto the next one.

Wartortle: Please rate and review, but if you don't, thanks for reading regardless.