Author's Note: Apologies for the extremely long delay in releasing this chapter. But life has been extremely hectic for me. I've been balancing a bunch of different projects for the last few months, namely trying to balance out my different bits of writing and art. On top of that, I've recently been involved in extensive training for a new career, so that has eaten up alot of my time which has made things more difficult. But this chapter essentially sets the stage for the finale of this first episode. There is alot of stuff I want to do with GoB down the line, so any support and discussion about this would be greatly appreciated, along with any feedback you might have to offer!
Thanks again for the wait, and I hope you enjoy that chapter! Along with the expanded Chapter I!
ALWAYS AUDACITY
CHAPTER XXII – INSURENCE
Most of the lights in Robinswood were now out, as the inhabitants of the small town were now turning in for the night. Even the Guildtree itself seemed darker than before as those working within finished their business. The streets and the paths that connected the different buildings together were empty and devoid of any life, save for a handful of Guild members quietly patrolling in pairs. No one was ever on their own.
One of those pairs stood by the entrance of the Guildtree, both scanning the trees and the square for any sign of potential movement. They were in the middle of a quiet conversation between themselves when something crackled within the town itself.
Jerking to attention, the pair stepped away from the entrance, trying to pinpoint the source.
That was when the dark shape bounced in behind them and straight through the entrance with them none the wiser.
Aidan touched down inside the empty lobby, his eyes flashing left and right for any contacts. But none appeared, not even those damn Meowth were at the desk as they usually were. He reached round to his satchel, tapping on the selection of orbs held within. They weren't the standard run of the mill orbs. They were new, experimental models alongside some older types. He didn't have to use an Invisify Orb for a start. Good thing too. They weren't really made anymore officially. Especially after some of the issues became apparent with the mental problems they could cause. And if there were any of the replacement Stealth Orbs in existence, he hadn't found them.
Best he didn't use those rare tools until they were needed.
He moved towards one of the smaller doorways off to one side of the lobby, that was where his objective was waiting for him.
Most would consider this plan foolish, but this was a contingency that was too useful for him to pass up on. Especially-
The elevator creaked above his head, and in silence, the Frogadier rolled off to the side, hiding himself behind a large crate stacked at the edge. Damn it, who the hell would still be leaving now!?
He peered round the corner of the crate, observing the elevator touch down and open up.
Stepping out into the lobby was a familiar white and red rabbit.
Aidan stiffened, tightening his grip on the crate. Sam…
Sam had his hands stuffed in the pockets of his jacket; head bowed as he walked across the lobby. Aidan narrowed his eyes as he watched, Rebecca's done her work, he's looking better already.
The frog's thoughts darkened. He could take him out. Grab him, pull him into the shadows, break his neck whilst no one was looking. Dispose the body in one of the crates and carry on with his task. It would be so cathartic. Aidan had to admit, trying to bring Sam into the rest of his life was a risky move, especially so soon. But that bond they had… he thought that would be enough. He trusted him! Vengeance would be so…
He bit down on his tongue, resisting the urge to attack. No. Even if he could kill him now, everyone would immediately realise that Aidan would have done the deed. He didn't need a bigger target on his back right now on top of what he was about to do now. And besides, given that bowed appearance, the Scorbunny seemed to be tumbling emotionally right now anyway. To jump in now…
Aidan couldn't tell if he was feeling cruel or pitiful.
Regardless, he watched Sam wander out of the Guildtree and stepped back into the open, heading towards the door he was looking for and made his way through. A corridor curved downwards into the ground, and Aiden silently jogged down it towards the lower levels, wrapped around the roots of the tree itself. He had never been down here before, but he was already familiar with the layout. Getting his hands on the floor plans was certainly worth the effort.
The corridor itself didn't branch off in any other direction, and at the end he found himself standing before a large metal door, easily large enough to allow for the likes of all but the biggest Pokémon access whilst also being very difficult to break down. At least by some manner of physical strength or the power of specific moves. Wouldn't be a very good door if anyone could just open it.
Reaching into his satchel, Aidan pulled out an average sized red orb that was cool to the touch. Rubbing it between his hands, he focused his attention on it as the object as it sharply began to heat up in his grasp. He pressed it against the wall, "Three, Two, One…"
He pulled his hands back, leaving the red orb to remain fixed within the surface of the metal. It brightened as much as a cheri berry. And then the sparks flew off the orb, the object beginning to shrink as the metal started to glow, and then quickly began to melt under the sheer heat.
Aidan could help but smirk as the molten metal fell away from the centre of the door, pooling into a steaming pool of red goop on the stone floor. He blew out a little Bubble attack at the opening, a faint hiss and crackle tickling at his ears. Barely waiting for it to cool, he hopped on through to find himself where he needed to be.
To his right was a long corridor, lined with what appeared to be cell doors, also made of the same material as the outer door. On his left, behind a wooden table and slumped over it was the familiar shape of a Sableye. Its crystal eyes were unmoving and 'open', yet given he could hear the faint snoring rising it was all too clear that the Pokémon was asleep.
Aidan didn't take any chances though. Reaching back into the satchel, he pulled out a small wooden stick and waved it towards the Sableye. With a flash of golden light at the tip, a tiny star blinked towards the guard and touched him on the head. He stiffened, seemingly disturbed before he started snoring again, more deeply than before.
The slumber wand disintegrated into golden specks in hand, and without barely a second glance at the firmly asleep Pokémon, Aidan made his way deeper into the prison. He strode past each of the cell doors until he found the one he wanted and slid open the viewport.
Within a small cell, was a large blue Pokémon that leaning against the wall. The massive amphibian stiffened and lifted his head up towards the viewport, a toothless, unwelcome smile forming.
"Boss." Greg rumbled.
Aidan tilted his head, lips twitching. "How did you figure it out it was me?"
The Swampert sighed as he pushed himself up to his feet. "I've seen enough of those headaches to know you were ready to evolve. So, what are you doing here? Can't be just wanting to gloat at some crook like me?"
"I couldn't be bothered to do even that." Aidan explained, casually leaning against the cell door and gazing at his hand. "Certainly not worth wasting some rare and valuable Orbs just to pay a visit."
He narrowed his eyes, crossing his arms in disapproval. "Especially after you screwed up so badly."
Greg stiffened up, eyelid twitching in subtle rage. "Come the hell on." He growled, "That was an accident! Besides that team was asking for it in the en-"
"I didn't order you to kill them." Aidan coldly and quietly snapped.
Two giant fists pounded against the metal of the cell door, the bang echoing through the prison like a wave. Aidan felt his body shudder under the impact through the metal, but it didn't faze him at all. It was a pointless and meaningless gesture. Nothing more.
Aidan rolled his head back, and let out a quiet yawn. "My my. What a foul tempered Swampert."
Quivering, Greg grumbled as he pulled his fists away from the door. But he said nothing else.
Satisfied, Aidan reached back into his satchel as he pulled out another one of the red orbs. "What I have here is an experimental orb." He explained, "It's a Scorch Orb. Very rare. Very illegal. Burns through near enough anything. Metal. Wood. Pokémon." He juggled the orb in one hand. "Naturally makes it dangerous. One of the few things the continents, guilds and societies could actually agree on was destroying every single record on making them so no humble craftsmon could try and replicate them. Well, so they say. Good news is, I smuggled a few of these bad boys in as… insurance."
He turned his gaze back onto the bandit leader. "I've already used one of these to get in. Luckily, I have this spare. I could use it to get you out of here. But then again, my hand could just slip-"
Aidan pulled his hand away, allowing the still airborne orb space to fall. Greg's eyes widened, going still as the orb dropped out of sight – and into the Frogadier's other hand. Smiling, he lifted the orb back into view.
Straightening up and recomposing himself, the Swampert narrowed his eyes. "…what do you want?"
"Like I said." Aidan replied, "Insurance."
Sam's ears twitched as the rays of sunlight hit his face. Feeling the warmth soak in, he opened his eyes to find that little window above his head twinkling with white light. A new day. The first time he had woken up in the room since…
He rolled his head over to look over at the empty bed across the room. It was in a messy state, still not laid out since their return to the town. I suppose Aidan didn't have much of a chance to sleep. Sam mused as he clambered out of the bed. I wonder if he left anything behind. Something that could be useful in Esper's investigation.
He searched through the contents of Aidan's side of the room. But as he opened his drawer, Sam could only sigh at the sight of what only appeared to be a few wraps of cloth and an empty bag. The lockers yielded little too. Just a scarf and a small bag of berries. Nothing that would point towards Aidan's activities.
The Scorbunny booted both shut, stretched back and rolled his shoulders. Come on Sam. It's a new day. Just forget about last night. Forget about Aidan betraying you and forget about Alice walking off again.
How could he forget though? He had trusted Aidan. And Alice… she had admitted to all that pain, and was still so wrapped up in it she wouldn't join another team.
But as he threw his jacket and googles on, he mentally worked to shove the thoughts aside. Now was not the time to get lost in them. He still had to secure a place on a rescue team. And even if he didn't, he couldn't stay couped up all day.
With the thoughts compartmentalised away, Sam let himself pull a weak smile, if only briefly, and wondered out into the day. He followed the paths back through the trees towards the square and the Guildtree. He watched as the crowds of Pokémon moved between building to building. Or from shop to shop for that matter. The way they happily chatted and bartered with one another. A few hearty laughs here and there. Even a few giggles from what Sam imagined were children. There was signs of an increased guild presence, judging by the extra Pokémon standing on guard around the outskirts and at the base of the tree with their own unique armbands. But beyond that… it was just as normal a day as any. Much like how he first arrived here.
Given what has happened… I'm surprised this place can just, I don't know. Brush things off maybe?
Walking past a pair of guards, he wandered on back into the Guildtree and its lobby.
It was already far busier this time round, there were multiple teams moving across the floor and accessing the stairs and lifts. The three different Meowth were jogging back and forth between the desk and the series of cabinets at the back, no doubt trying to fill the requests that were being thrown their way.
Sat at the front desk was the familiar shape of Bruce, tapping his foot away as waited for one of the Meowth to come running back round to him. Given Bruce was the only one he both recognised and knew in some way, Sam stuffed his hands into his pockets and strolled up to join him. "Hey Bruce."
The Bulbasaur turned towards him with a massive smile, "Sam! Doing good?"
"Been better." Sam replied, rubbing the back of his head. "How about you?"
Bruce nodded back towards him. "Yep! Just waiting to get details on the new team done. What about you? Gonna get set up with Aidan an-"
He visibly stiffened at the name, mouth twitching open and shut. Sam's ears dipped a bit. "Word travels that fast huh?"
"Yeah…" Bruce admitted, seeming to shrivel up. "I only heard about it this morning." He shook his head, "Sorry dude, I tried to distract myself by getting everyone signed up but well-"
The words died on the top of the Pokémon's tongue. Sam could feel the mood dampen even further. Better change the topic quick.
"Let's forget about that." Sam replied, "Any idea on a team name?"
"A team name… oh yeah!" Bruce exclaimed, standing up. "We're still working on that."
Sam tilted his head at that, "Don't you need one before signing up or something?"
"Not at the start. Shouldn't be much longer though. I mean, we can't use Team Forest anymore. Nia wants to be Team Go-Getters or Poképals."
It took a couple of seconds for Sam to realise what Bruce had just said. The Scorbunny could already sense his face twisting, cringing at the names. "Go-Getters? Poképals? Really?"
Bruce himself seemed to shrivel up at the words, "Yeah… not my kind of name. They kinda have a good ring but…" the Bulbasaur pulled the best shrug he could, "Not what you would call epic."
Sam nearly choked out a chuckle, "Epic huh?"
"Come on man-"
"Relax Bruce. I'm pulling your leg." He hesitated, "Or vine."
"Very funny." Bruce replied with a smirk.
Sam grinned, a pleasant warmth filling his chest. "In all seriousness, I'm sure you'll come up with something good."
The Scorbunny stiffened further upright, recalling Rex's words on finding a new team. "Actually." he started, relaxing in front of his fellow initiate. "I was wondering if you coul-"
He caught a flash of red and yellow in the corner of his vision, and with the sentence fading away, Sam turned to find Rex strolling across the lobby, Esper moving alongside him. Huh? What's Rex doing down here?
"Hey Sam? What's up – oh, the guildmaster?" Bruce questioned, "You need something off him?"
"Not really…" Sam replied, focusing his gaze on the two Pokémon as they approached a door on one side of the lobby. It was there, impatiently pacing at the portal was a Sableye. "The jailer…" Sam mused, ears going more erect. He watched as the Ghost-type almost leapt upright as the two higher ranked Pokémon approached him and quietly uttered a few words between them. Sam leaned over, trying to listen in. But the din of the surrounding crowd of Pokémon was just too much even for his ears to pick out their voices. But judging from the rather skittish gestures that the jailer was making…
Something's wrong.
Rex nodded at the Sableye and made his way through the door, Esper and the jailer following close behind.
"Weird." Bruce started, "That Sableye seemed a bit-"
Sam was able to hear the Bulbasaur choke over his shoulder. "W-Sam! Where are you going!"
Already jogging for the door, Sam barely glanced back, "I'm taking a look!"
"W-What!? No! We can't-"
The Bulbasaur growled, his footsteps clattering behind him as Sam slipped his fingers through the closing door and slipped on through.
He entered a stone corridor, quite a bit different compared to the likes the interior of the Guildtree. Bruce grunted behind him, the Bulbasaur barely managing to squeeze through the gap before the door closed. "Sam!" he hissed, "We aren't allowed down here!"
"I need to know what's going on." Sam replied, narrowing his eyes as he started to jog down the corridor. "I think it's to do with Aidan."
"Aidan? What the hell has he got to do with the-" his voice teetered off. "Shit. Wait, what would Aidan have to do with this place… whatever it is. Jail?"
"Must be." Sam replied, "Aidan was a smuggler, there might be something down here he is after."
"On top of trying to… err… you know."
"Kill me." Sam grunted, "Yeah, I know."
It didn't take long before voices started rising up further down the corridor… and soon enough, the ruined prison door. Sam struggled to stop the gasp, seeing the puddles of molten metal piled round the entrance.
"Holy." Bruce whispered, "Any idea what caused this?"
"Beats me." Sam replied, "Quiet. I'm trying to listen." He said, focusing on the voices.
"…on't get it! I would have woken up!"
"The door was likely covered by an orb." Rex stated. "As for you not waking up, it would have to be a Slumber wand. Probably as a pre-"
"Sorry old man." Esper interrupted, "We've got guests."
Sam felt a deep chill settle over his body, a faint blue glow flowing around him. We-what?
That was when his feet lifted off the floor. Out of his control. He barely heard Bruce stutter in confusion before he suddenly found himself thrown through the hole in the door.
The flight barely lasted more than a second, as he suddenly jerked to a halt at the entrance to a line of prison cells. It was down this corridor where Rex, Esper and the jailer were standing. The Meowstic's eyes glowed a solid blue, her head tilted back as if in mild disinterest. Rex crossed his arms, "Ah, Sam. Bruce."
Sam blinked as his feet touched the ground again. "H-How did you know we were there?"
"I'm Psychic." Esper explained as her eyes slowly returned back to normal. "You were loud enough."
"S-Sorry that we are here guildmaster!" Bruce started, shaking his head, "We didn't mean to-"
"Relax Bruce." Rex interjected, raising his hands in a calming motion. "You were following Sam, right?"
Bruce fidgeted on the spot, eyes flicking away, "Yeah."
The Scorbunny stiffened as Rex turned his gaze on him, "And I'm not surprised you followed us down here."
Hesitating, Sam nodded. "I figured something was up."
"That's completely understandable." The Blaziken motioned with one hand, "Come on. You two might as well see this."
Sharing a glance with Bruce, now looking like he had shaken off his nerves, Sam made his way over to the gathered group. They had been directing their attention to one of the cells – the door had been melted through just as the outer door had. And the cell itself was empty. He glanced at the molten patches, feeling his chest go cold. "Did you say this was due to some kind of orb?" He asked.
"He did." Esper confirmed, yellow eyes inspecting the markings, "But I've never seen anything like this before."
"A Scorch Orb."
Esper's eyes – and by extension Sam's – flicked over to Rex, his arms crossed. "An extremely dangerous Orb type. They were made before the first Rescue Teams were formed."
Bruce patted a foot on the scorched metal, wincing at the touch. "Sounds like you've seen these before Guildmaster." He visibly swallowed, "Not that I'm suggesting anything."
"It's a fair observation." Rex reassured him, "And yes. I've seen one once." He closed his eyes. "Let's just say the results weren't pretty. I helped made sure that production of them ceased. But I didn't think any would still exist."
"If anyone could get them, Aidan could." Sam noted. Granted, he didn't know that for sure. But given what he had just from that one encounter, it would make sense. "But who would Aidan or anyone want to break out?"
Bruce had wandered into the cell, his eyes widening as he looked at the other side. "Arc-big guy to the looks of it."
Tilting his head, Sam frowned. "A big guy?"
His mouth opened to reply, but the Bulbasaur shook his head and bumped it against the door. It squeaked as it swung out, revealing the dozens of dents on the other side. Each one easily bigger than Sam's head.
The hairs rose up the back of his neck, the Scorbunny immediately stiffening at the sight. He remembered that first day in Robinwood. How that Sableye came running out for help. There was only one Pokémon that could leave that impression."
"Greg." Sam hissed, sharply enough that he could feel himself coil up.
"Greg?" Bruce asked, a flicker of confusion evident.
"A Swampert." Rex stated, "A strong one to boot too." He turned towards Esper, "At the very least, if Aidan did do this, he only elected to release Greg and not his fellow bandits."
"Perhaps he only needed the leader." Esper noted.
Sam tapped his foot, his mind whirling to conclusions. "Or maybe he didn't have enough Scorch Orbs."
"Wouldn't there be keys lying around for that?" Bruce asked.
The Sableye shuck his head. "Nada. The keys are kept elsewhere in the Tree. Makes it harder to break out!"
"That still leaves why Aidan would risk coming back here." Esper said.
"Likely a distraction." Rex suggested, "And at the worst possible time. We still need to send out search teams at once."
Esper glanced up at the avian. "You said it yourself. We still have a large portion of the Guild monitoring what remains of Broken Wood in case Volcanion remerges."
Rubbing his wrist, the guildmaster narrowed his eyes. "Greg is still a dangerous threat. I'll dispatch Lance and Reave. They've dealt with Greg's team before."
"I bet if we find Greg." Sam started; arms crossed as he pulled a determined look their way. "It'll lead to Aidan too."
Rex pulled a small smile in approval, "You read my mind little one. Esper, cont-"
"Guildmaster!"
Sam spun to find the Bibarel, Oscar, stumbling into view at the end of the corridor from the entrance. "By golly! I thought you were down here!"
"Oscar? What's wrong?" Esper asked, eyes widening.
Panting, the beaver leaned against one of the walls. "It's the port. There's been an explosion!"
"What!?" Bruce shouted, leaping out of the cell. "I know a few of the guys there! Is-"
"I don't know! I just heard from one of the Fletchlings that happened to be close by! Poor fella nearly collapsed, how fast he flew. Much of the place is already on fire, and could spread to the nearby forest!"
Sam swivelled towards Rex, his heart already beginning to pound. There was only one logical suggestion after all of this. "Aidan." He hissed, fists already tightening enough that a tiny part of his mind was worried they would start bleeding.
Rex clicked his beak in a clear show of agreement. "Indeed." He breathed out with disgust. "Another part of his distraction." He rubbed his forehead, a soft groan escaping his lips. "No doubt he is taking advantage of the fact that we are spread thin. Between Volcanion, protecting Robinwood, Greg and now this…"
"Guildmaster?" Oscar gently questioned, "What do you want us to do?"
Letting out a heavy sigh, Rex focused his attention back onto the beaver. "Assemble the guild members. Pull those back searching for Aidan. We'll divert them back to the port, rescue those stuck there and contain the fire."
Bruce practically bounced at the words, "I'll come too! I'm not leaving those guys to burn! Doesn't matter how hot those flames are, I can take it!"
"What about Aidan?" Sam questioned, "I'm all up for saving that place as much as the rest of us, but he could still get away." The Scorbunny could feel his body quiver, and a heaviness settle into his stomach. It felt wrong to focus on Aidan, not with everyone else in danger. But every second spent acting on the defence was another opportunity for the smuggler to escape.
Or to plot something worse.
Rex held his gaze on Sam for a solid ten seconds, his blue eyes piercing through his own. He felt his heart slow for a second, as if the fire type had somehow turned into an ice type to cool him down. But it didn't last for long, and the Scorbunny merely straightened up. "I'll come and help at the port. But we should keep at least one team out to look for Aidan."
"Which is why you will be staying here." Rex stated.
Sam blinked "H-Huh?"
Rex crossed his arms, raising a brow, "You have the most experience in working with Aidan and contending with Greg. Or rather, the most recent encounters. You will be the most up-to-date with whatever tricks they might try."
"I barely know them."
"My point still stands. Plus, if Aidan sees you in a less well defended town…"
Sam let his mouth drop open as it dawned on him, "Ahh… he might make a run for me."
"Exactly. And because of that alone," he turned towards Bruce, "I must ask you Bruce to get the other recruits who returned from Broken Wood. You'll form the protection detail."
"B-But-" Bruce started, only for Rex to raise a finger to stop him.
"I know you want to help your friends in the port, but I can't leave the town defended by just Sam alone, and I can't pull back anyone from Broken Wood. They aren't just there to act as a tripwire for Volcanion, but it's for anyone who is dares to try and get in. That, and you all don't have the experience to deal with an emergency like this." He motioned a hand towards the Sableye, who immediately jerked up to attention and scurried for the prison entrance. "As for sending a team to focus on tracking Aidan or Greg, I will send our best."
He turned towards the Meowstic. "Esper. Get Team Spirit ready. Now."
A determined look forming, Esper nodded back. "Spirit will get it done." She confirmed sharply, before turning to make her way out after the Sableye, with Oscar following close behind. Rex himself directed his attention to the remaining two Pokémon – Sam and Bruce.
"Listen to me carefully." He started, "I'll hash out key areas to guard and rotations if this takes too long. But whatever you do, focus on protecting Robinwood. Don't try and go on a rescue mission. Send someone to report it to me as soon as you can. Understood?"
"Yes sir!" Bruce declared firmly, one foot stamping the ground as if coming to attention.
But Sam himself hesitated, a part of him wanting to chase Aidan and Greg, another wanting to help at the port, but if this needed to be done…
"You can count on us." He said, sharply nodding back at Rex.
When they emerged from the prison, Rex had immediately rallied the Guild to action. Rapidly assembling the Rescue Teams to set off towards the port at all speed. Some were already prepared to depart, and led the way through the forests towards the south, whilst others hurried back to their rooms and barracks to gather their equipment. Rex took the opportunity to inform Sam and Bruce of the guarding arrangements for Robinwood, in case of Aidan or Greg suddenly made their return to the town. Arrangements that were soon passed over towards Nia, Dan, Edward, Denver and at last, Alice herself, looking no different than from the following night.
And with that, the plan was set. The seven successful guild recruits would be split into three separate units, centred around their teams (mostly). Some of the townsfolk were also willing to throw in their support in each spot. Edward and Denver would guard one side of the outskirts whilst Bruce, Nia and Dan would cover the other.
That left Sam and Alice to guard the town centre and the guild tree itself, the location with the largest number of Pokémon on its own.
With the final guard details arranged, Rex led the remaining teams out of town, following the vanguard towards the port.
The mysterious Team Spirit didn't appear. Must have already set off after Greg. Sam figured.
"Seems like we are stuck together again." Alice mused once they were alone, eyes fixed on the sky. "Not like this though."
Sam followed her gaze. Hanging above the treetops like an angry giant was a dirty black cloud, the smoke bellowing upwards. When he first stepped out of the tree, it had caught him completely off guard, freezing him in place. But he had just quickly snapped out of it. I couldn't afford to shut down there. That being said…
"Yeah." He admitted, "I didn't think Aidan would do something like this."
She huffed at that, "Shows how little you actually knew him."
He turned away from her, eyes flicking towards the ground, "Yeah, you have a point."
Sam could make out the quiet shuffle as Alice turned away. "I'm going to do some rounds. You better reassure the locals too. They won't listen to me."
"Huh?"
"Curse."
His heart only sank at that, his clenched fist the only indicator of the anger struggling to surface. The pain that Alice had been thrown through all too familiar to him. An event like this would only make people even more unsure of Alice. He let out a heavy sigh, "Alright then. I'll do the same. Be careful."
Alice grunted in reply, "You do the same."
The patrols were short and brief, Sam electing to jog through the town at a rapid pace. Whilst there were still Pokémon inside the tower, most weren't fighters like the guild members. Neither were the regular townsfolks for the matter, but losing even part of the Guildtree to any intruders would have been especially bad. Sam took the time to reassure those townsfolk. That the guild teams wouldn't be long, and those still on site were able to look after the place.
But the hours started to drag on, and with the smoke cloud still towering into the sky, day slowly became night.
And still no sign of the other Guild members.
At the entrance to the Guildtree, He took one more look at the sky. Bruce and Edward's teams should be starting their rotations now. That way they could remain fresh.
It's about time we did the same ourselves.
He turned towards Alice. "You better get some rest." He started, "I'll stay on watch."
Alice turned to look at him with a concerned look. "You sure about that?"
"I'm sure." Sam nodded back. "I've still got some energy on hand. Just try and get down in a few hours for me, alright?"
She glanced him over once more, before nodding and turning towards the tree entrance. "I'm only a couple of floors up. Holler if you need anything."
Turning, Alice made her way through the entrance.
Thirty minutes passed, and Sam was already regretting that he sent Alice first. He was beginning to pace at the entrance, trying to keep his focus on watching over the square and yet, he struggled to reign in the boredom of nothing happening.
It wasn't just that of course. It was worry too. Aidan or Greg could have been hiding in the darkness. And there was still no word from Rex and the other guild members. Part of him figured that that the flying types would at the very least be sending messages back and forth, but their absence would only seem to indicate how dire the situation actually was at the port. At least in theory.
He thumped the trunk with an open palm, Dang it! I wish I was out there! It's better than sitting here and doing nothing! He sighed, Then again, this place needs looking after. Rex has a point. But I guess I just prefer getting stuck in with stuff.
He tilted his head at the thought, Kinda like how much enjoyed the fighting in the dungeon. He mused with a faint chuckle, Is that a Pokémon thing or something else?
Something rustled over his shoulder.
The Scorbunny sprung round, foot sliding back to fire off an attack at the new contact and-
A little white bug crawled round the edge of the Guildtree. Sam felt his entire body crumple at the sight. "Kyle!" he hissed, "What are you doing out here!? You should be at home!"
The Snom recoiled an inch back, "S-Sorry Mr. Sam! I-I-I-"
Anger was immediately washed away with regret. Damn, I terrified the poor kid!
"Hey hey." Sam quickly uttered softly, as he lowered himself down to one knee. "Sorry, I shouldn't have shouted."
He relaxed as Kyle seemed to creep forward again, the fear quickly fading. Water of the duck's back huh? He calmed down quick. Putting the thought aside, he lowered himself further. "But what are you doing out here? Aren't you going to worry your mum?"
The kid's little eyes sparkled, "I'm looking for Papa." He declared, trying to sound as determined and brave as he could. "I want to help him."
Sam let out a quiet sigh, feeling his heart sink a touch. Jack was going to go crazy if Kyle had gone wandering off. "Even if I knew where your dad was, that is a bad idea. He's probably really busy right now helping everyone, and the last thing he needs is to be worrying about you." He frowned, "How did you get past… Bruce, Nia and Dan?"
"That's a secret!" Kyle giggled, and Sam couldn't help but chuckle at his comment.
"Of course it is." He managed to reply with a tinge of sarcasm, before flicking his gaze between the Guildtree and the path leading to the barracks. I really need to get him back home. His mum's going to be scared to heck and back. But I can't leave this place unguarded.
"Alright." He started, "I'll get you back home, I just need to wake up my friend first."
Kyle slumped a little at the words. "Do I have to?"
"Think of it this way." Sam countered softly with a friendly smile, patting the little ice-type on the side. "You can help look after your mum and everyone in the barracks whilst I keep an eye on the square. Do you like the sound of that?"
The little Snom nodded, eyes brightening again. "I-I do!"
"Good." Came the rumble. "Luckily you ain't got to worry about that."
Sam stiffened, feeling the voice force its way through his chest and shake at his bones. His ears immediately snapped round to the source – behind him.
Kyle's eyes widened.
The Scorbunny leapt forward.
The paw clamped down round his legs. Sam cried out as he was yanked down and back, his head barely skimming past the ground as some invisible force lifted him up into mid-air. Quite literally. There was nothing standing behind him.
Then the air shimmered, as if light was being bent around one spot in the air before the imposing form of the Swampert revealed itself. "Surprised to see me kid?"
Flashing his teeth, Sam squirmed in his grasp, trying to glance over his shoulder. "Kyle! Get out of here!"
Greg pulled his toothless grin as he glanced over at the ice bug, the kid frozen in place. "Don't worry kiddo. I'll show you how you can protect your daddy."
"Kyle run!"
Sam recoiled as Greg's face flooded his vision, "You might as well as shut your mouth!" he snarled, "I've been waiting for this!"
Oh cra-!
Sam's shout was cut off as his head slammed into the side of the tree.
Once. Then twice before the bigger Pokémon let the Scorbunny crumple to the floor. Groaning, Sam rolled his head to one side, his ears barely registering Kyle's cry as the Swampert scooped him up with one hand. "You're coming with me – don't try biting me you little shit, or I'll chew you up for breakfast!"
"H-Help!" Kyle screamed.
"K-Kyle…" Sam whispered before he finally slipped under.
"So let me get this straight." Greg grumbled. "You want me to get the Guild breathing down my ass again by doing a spot of kidnapping, whilst you blow up the fricking port… all so you can get your shit out of town?!"
Aidan narrowed his eyes, still leaning against the cell door. "You've got to understand, I've set up a big operation. That kind of stuff takes time to move around, I need muscle to cover all that."
"And you would rather waste me on that than one of your regular grunts."
"And you've got plenty of muscle."
Big blue fingers tapped away at the metal door, "Doesn't sound like a fair arrangement. That chicken will just get me locked up again."
Aidan smirked at that, "I let you out, then you at least get the chance to get off this island if you follow my instructions. That, or I'll find another crook and leave you to rot. All you need to do is to keep the Guild occupied for a night so I can get everything moved, I don't care how, what or who you take as long as you get it done."
Greg narrowed his eyes, and pulled one of his signature smirks. "You know what happened last time. Are you sure you want me to do this?"
Aidan barely showed any reaction. He's got a point. He'll leave a bloody mess.
It didn't take him long to decide.
He held up the Scorch Orb, holding an inquisitive gaze at the Swampert. "Are you?"
The crook glanced away one more time, then nodded.
Within moments, the Scorch Orb had faded away, and the metal of the door was bubbling away onto the floor. Greg stood at the threshold, puffing as he inspected the cooling metal before finally stepping through. Aidan took a few steps, more to give the bigger Pokémon room to move than anything else.
The Swampert narrowed his eyes as he looked down at him. "And if anyone tries to stop me?"
Aidan crossed his arms, "That's easy." He stated, tilting his head forward and furrowing his brow. "Kill them."
"H-Heya! A-Are you alright!"
His head rapidly throbbing, Sam groaned as he rolled over onto his back. "I'm going to have brain damage at this rate." He grumbled.
"Brain damage?" The voice whispered, "J-come on, don't be stupid! You're lucid aren't you!"
"Oh give the poor guy a chance. He'll probably get more knocks like that at some point!"
"Keep running your beak like that and someone might just blow you from the sky."
The Scorbunny's eyes flickered open to find three Pokémon looking down on top of him. One of them he recognised immediately as Perry, the Corvisquire that he and Aidan 'rescued' from Broken Wood. The other two took a moment longer, but he recalled seeing their faces back in the square once or twice. One was tall, and covered in what appeared to be a light grey metal. Yellow and green eyes looked down upon him. The other looked a bit like a… Chameleon? They were covered in green and yellow scales, albeit with a strange blue stripe running along their belly. A Duraludon and a Kecleon respectively. Ah… they ran the shop and bank here…
The Kecleon focused her attention on him, "Are you alright?"
Wincing, Sam managed to push himself up to a sitting position, "I'll live."
That was when the memory of Kyle rushed through his mind. Panic gripping him, he sprung to his feet. "K-Kyle! Where is he!? Did-"
"That Swampert took him." The Duraludon confirmed, his metallic fingers clamping open and shut. "Poor kid was frozen on the spot."
"I don't blame the little one." Perry mused, "A big guy like that would scare the living daylights out of any little bug. Before they are inevitably rescued of course."
The Kecleon shot a cold glare at the post bird. "This isn't the time for one of your jokes!" she snapped. "Not that my brothers would be much better with selling things. Come on Dural! You have to agree with me there!"
"As much as Perry is being an ass." Dural started, "He has a point, Larissa. Most of the town folk are too scared to come out. And us three weren't fast enough to out here, being on the other side of town and not in the stores. Except Perry – so called fastest post-bird around my ass."
As Dural stomped the ground, Perry flashed a wounded look, "I was further away than the rest of you! I'm fast, but I don't have super hearing."
"Alright enough!" Sam barked, snapping the three Pokémon back to attention. "Did any of you at least see where Greg went!"
Larrissa nodded sharply back at him, a determined look on her face. "He wasn't stealthy leaving for sure." She jabbed a finger over her shoulder. Leaning to the side, he found that part of the undergrowth to one side of the Guildtree had been crushed, low hanging branches snapped like twigs. "How he got in is a better question."
"He was invisible." Sam breathed, his chest quivering at the feeling of Greg's voice rumbling through it. "Never knew Swampert can do that."
"They can't." Dural noted, "He must have used an Invisify Orb."
He hummed to himself, eyes looking towards the sky. "Not many of those left…"
Sam flashed his buckteeth, "Aidan…" he growled, before shaking his head. "Alright, that doesn't matter. Greg's took Kyle." He stiffened himself, readying himself for the response even as he barely thought about it, "I'll go after him."
"Are you serious!" Larissa exclaimed, eyes widening, "He just threw you around like a plushie!"
"Never mind type and evolution advantage." Dural rumbled.
"Go for it."
All eyes locked onto the Corvisquire, "Close the fracking door." Dural growled.
The heck?
Perry pulled a shrug with his wings, "Well someone has gotta go after him. Most of the guild is at the port and the other recruits could be in trouble too. There isn't a second to waste."
In that moment, the post-bird looked deathly serious, turning his gaze on the Scorbunny with a steely look. "The question is who is going to step up?"
Sam didn't hesitate, "I'm going." He reaffirmed, clapping a fist into his palm, feeling the flame in his chest roar as the throb faded away from his head. "Kyle needs help. And I have a score to settle with Greg."
Perry nodded, a tiny flicker of a smile emerging, "I'll fly out and get the word out to Team Spirit. They're the closest. Dural and Larissa-" he turned towards his companions, "You better let the other recruits know what happened."
"Whoa whoa." The Kecleon started, "You can't just-"
It was too late, the Corvisquire had already shot up into the night sky and was banking away. "And there he goes." Dural mumbled, slowly turning away. "I'll head towards the barracks, that's where I last heard some of the guards were being placed."
Larissa glanced between the metal dino, Sam and the night sky. "I-I'll check out that other place."
She look down on him, "If you are going… please be careful. Try and not get yourself killed."
"I second that." Dural said, "I still think this is a bad idea."
Sam felt his ears quiver. He knew what he was planning was insane. He barely survived against Greg last time, and that time he was completely fresh then. Here he had just gotten beaten up and barely survived his fight with Aidan and his flight from Volcanion. But he couldn't sit back. The memory of the dead Pikachu and his companions flashed across his vision. No… I can't let Kyle suffer the same fate!
He nodded back, "I don't plan on dying. Stay safe."
Sharing a final glance between each other, the two Pokémon went their separate ways, running with surprising speed towards the forest paths and once more, leaving Sam alone at the foot of the tree.
He didn't wait either. He spun towards the Guildtree, breaking out into a run. Insane plan or not, I can't do this alone. Bruce and the others might not be ready in time either… and there is only one person I can count on to help me.
It didn't take him long to find her room, thanks to a little bit of guidance from one of the few remaining Pokémon in the tree who had been wondering down from the upper levels. He booted in the door, barely breaking his stride as he got in. "Alice! Wake up! We've got a problem."
He didn't note much about the room itself, save for a single bed that had been assembled to one side of the room. Alice's shape rolled over; her ears sprayed out across the pillow. "Apples… training…"
"Alice! Come on!" Sam snapped, scouring the room and scooping up her satchel. "Now is not the time to be sleeping!"
The Buneary seemed to grumble under the bedsheet, her body stirring, "If… if you want to recruit me onto your team… I'll punch your eyes…"
Heart racing and temper boiling over, Sam spun round to face her. "Jack's son has been kidnapped!" he roared.
The shape froze.
Stiffened.
The Buneary shot out from under the bedcover in a flash of light that could have only been a Quick Attack. The anger flipping into shock as Sam staggered away, only for Alice to grab hold of his chest fur and yank him back, one ear coiled in and shivering as she roared back into his face.
"Why the hell didn't you start with that you idiot!"